Volume 29, Number
www.towntimes.com
Friday, December 1, 2023
Middlefield BOS will again seek charter changes By Michael Savino Special to The Times
The Middlefield Board of Selectmen want a second attempt to pass some changes to the town’s charter, including eliminating term limits and restricting selectmen’s ability to lease town land. Residents rejected the proposed changes, which were lumped into one question included on the Nov. 7 ballot. “I think basically people didn’t have a true concept of exactly what all the revisions were,” First Selectmen Robert Yamartino said. The BOS agreed to revisit the issue with the Charter Review Commission to see which, if any, changes will eventually go back to voters. Photo courtesy of Lyman Orchards, Facebook
Enjoy Christmas, Dickens-style Special to The Times
A Charles Dickens’ Christmas is coming. The special program will be held at Lyman Orchards from now through Dec. 23. Take a delightful stroll through a classic Dickens’ Christmas experience this holiday season. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of a simple and traditional family Christmas event. Admire the outdoor lighted scenes, engage with familiar characters from the treasured book, “A Christmas Carol,” and head inside the beautifully decorated Lyman Fami-
ly Homestead, to experience the joy of the holiday season. Enjoy a cup of hot apple cider, freshly baked donuts and other goodies (for additional purchase) as you stroll the grounds of the historical Lyman Homestead, viewing light displays and meeting familiar Dickens’ characters. Indoor family friendly activities include letter writing to Santa, miniature wooden ornament coloring station, and story time in the Great Room. You just might bump into Scrooge himself! Visit 1741 Pub & Grill before or after the event for delicious food and
drinks! Attraction Hours: Thursday-Sunday — 5 to10pm (9:30 p.m. last entry), Dec 1-23 Saturday and Sunday Matinee — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Dec 9, 10, 16, 17, and 23 Horse-drawn Hayrides are available during matinees only, and are included in the ticket price — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday). No refunds will be offered. From the creators of CT’s interactive Haunted House at Lyman Orchards, 3 Lyman Road.
Yamartino said the board agreed during its Nov. 20 meeting it will not propose removing the town clerk and tax collector positions from the list of elected offices in towns, which was part of the referendum in November. The change would have meant the current office holders, Town Clerk Tonya Hogan and Tax Collector Anne Olszewski, would no longer need to seek re-election, and selectmen would have hired replacements. Voters rejected the two changes by 4-to-1 margins. “Pretty overwhelmingly the town was against it, so I don’t anticipate us bringing that back at all,” Yamartino said. He does hope voters will change their mind on other charter changes, See Charter changes, A6
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A2 Friday, December 1, 2023
Catching up with my good friend, Santa
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You may remember them. Cute as a button, both of them, with a list of coveted Dear Santa, He just drops toys off to evtoys a mile long. We can erybody. Everybody! The Well, it’s that magical time of pressure of wondering if you watch a little TV. Would you the year again. I have always have been naughty or nice is like a Hallmark movie about loved you — to the moon Christmas? I’m guessing you just too much. I know I aland back — and so I want to ways felt it. I’m still feeling it. would. Maybe while sipping make sure we always stay in So just be a dear, Santa, and a cup of green tea. touch, even if it is only once give all the boys and girls And if you are in the mood a year. The heart knows no whatever was on their wish to bequeath me with a pretime and distance, right? I list. It’s just good public rela- sent-well, I wouldn’t say no. would like to think we’re tions. I have no particular resoul mates, but that might be crossing a line. How are the reindeer doing? quests. Surprise me. I’m easy Have they been working out to please. So how was your year? Catch at the gym in preparation for So I’ll see you soon, my jolly me up. The last I knew the their overnight flight on De- friend. And remember, just Missus was a little concember 24? Are they buffed toss that “naughty or nice” cerned about your expandyet? When you drop by, list into the shredder. I’m ing girth. She knows that a please remind them to tread pretty sure it gave me PTSD Santa, to be true to form, so ever so lightly on my roof. I to speak, must be of a rather don’t want any shingles get- back in the day. And a little bit even now. portly nature, but I have ting loose. It is so expensive heard that she is a little con- to get one’s roof shingled, Happy flying! cerned about your cholesyou know. Will you be comYour BFF, terol levels. I am going to go ing down the chimney-in Diana out on the limb here and say which case I better move the that you probably are not firewood so that you will too keen on embarking on have a soft landing- or the keto diet. Understood. should I leave a key out? It Who wants to give up cook- will be under the mat but ies? If you decide to drop by please don’t tell anyone. my house on Christmas Eve I fall asleep in front of the – and I sincerely hope that you do – I will have the per- TV every night, usually by 8 fect snack for you: Nada p.m.. So tread softly, please. Don’t try to shake me awake Moo vegan ice cream, chocolate chip mint. I think because I might put my tai it will be to your liking. chi training to use. We don’t want that. Santa needs both So how was your year? Did of his knees for the arduous you come up with innovative trip ahead of him. Perhaps ideas for toys? you could gently ring a bell. Alright, let’s get serious for a Or maybe hum a soft lullaby. Of course that might put me moment. About this “nice into a deeper sleep. and naughty” list: I think you should just scrap it. You Anyhoooooo, once I am might want to take a page awake we will have a marPlease & Thank you. from the Great Pumpkin’s velous time. We’ll eat our book. He has no such list.
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Friday, December 1, 2023
A3
Facing defeat, Lamont withdraws regs phasing out new gas car sales By Mark Pazniokas and Jan Ellen Spiegel © The Connecticut Mirror
states’ progress towards establishing the necessary electric infrastructure.
A majority of the legislature’s Regulation Review Committee was poised to vote Tuesday to kill regulations prohibiting new gasoline-powered vehicle sales by 2035, forcing advocates and the administration of Gov. Ned Lamont to open talks on a new plan for passage by the full General Assembly in 2024.
“This might give people comfort,” Ritter said.
“The choice open to us is let them be killed or pull them,” Dach said. “We will pull them.” “I was very hopeful we could get ‘rejection without prejudice’ so we could carry on the discussions,” said Rep. Lucy Dathan, D-New Canaan, the committee cochair, after briefing Dach. “It’s disappointing.”
An EV on its charger.
Paul Stern, CT Mirror
saying right along: The EPA regulations are just more realistic,” Klarides-Ditria said. Of the California goal of
“This is what we’ve been
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House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said one possibility was emulating New Mexico and Colorado, states that endorsed a transition to zero-emission vehicles, but included a commitment before then to assess their
A shift to the EPA goals would be welcome, said Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria, RSeymour, a member of Regulation Review Committee and opponent of the proposed regulations.
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Lamont and legislators will hold a press conference Tuesday to outline an alternative: Have the General Assembly pass a bill keeping Connecticut in line with the timetable established by California and adopted by New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey and other states to phase out new sales of most gas-powered vehicles.
In April, the Environmental Protection Agency proposed federal emission standards requiring that 67% of new light-duty vehicles and 25% of new heavy-duty trucks sold in the United States are electric or otherwise powered by zero-emission engines by 2032.
R259457_V5
Jonathan Dach, the governor’s chief of staff, said Monday that the administration reluctantly made the decision to withdraw the regulations after being told that opponents on the bipartisan committee had the votes to kill them and not merely reject them without prejudice, an action that would allow a later attempt at passage.
Colorado adopted the California standards that progressively limit new gas-car sales with a major proviso: It would follow California only through 2032, then it would live by the lower federal clean air standards, the other option available to states.
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A4 Friday, December 1, 2023
Town Times | towntimes.com
Gas cars
was unsure if Lamont would attend the news conference.
From A3
Ritter said the administration’s withdrawal of the regulations give legislators flexibility. If the regulations were disapproved by the committee, the legislature only could vote to overturn the panel, not revise the regulations. On the committee’s agenda Tuesday were two sets of regulations that would im-
motor vehicles: those set by the EPA or more stringent ones set by California.
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Without committing to a specific proposal, Dach said the administration supports the legislative efforts to keep Connecticut moving towards zero-emission vehicles. He
would have voted against the regulations, despite a promise by Commissioner Katie Dykes of the DepartSen. Cathy Osten, Dment of Energy and EnvironSprague, a Regulation Remental Protection to conThe car regulations would view Committee member, vene a working group to have essentially updated ex- had made clear for weeks oversee Connecticut’s inisting emissions levels by re- that her vote was in jeopardy frastructure progress before quiring that all new vehicles given her concern about the the 2035 deadline. sold in the state must have impact on agriculture in her zero emissions beginning in largely rural district, as well “I said, ‘No, let’s work on 2035. The other is for medithis first,'” Hartley said. as the cost of electric vehium and heavy duty vehicles cles and the ability of the Dykes could not be reached. — trucks. Beginning in 2035, electric grid to meet the She is scheduled to join La40% to 75% of new vehicle greater demand. mont, Democratic legislative sales, depending on the Osten said that some of the leaders and others at a press class of vehicle, must be zero complications faced by Nor- conference Tuesday to reemissions. spond and review next steps. way, where 87% of new car Neither action affects existsales are EVs, also gave her Hartley said she supports ing vehicles, the sale of used pause. Osten said she was the transition to zero-emisstruck by the cost of subsivehicles, or prohibits zeroemission vehicles that are dies, such as tax credits, and sion vehicles as a necessary not electric. It also allows the disproportionate benefit step towards protecting the environment, but she has plug-in hybrid cars that have on wealthier buyers. questions about the state’s gasoline backups. She declined to say Monday readiness and the impact on Both follow the standards set if she had informed leaders lower-income, urban conby California, which the she was a hard no, but othstituents. ers said the decision to withConnecticut legislature ap“I believe in it and endorse proved two decades ago for draw them was based on a it,” Hartley said. But she cars. Under rules of the fed- belief that Osten and Sen. added, “I represent a city of eral Clean Air Act going back Joan Hartley, D-Waterbury, would vote with the Republi- 116,000 with a median into its inception in 1970, come of $42,000.” states have been able to cans in opposition. choose one of two sets of Hartley confirmed she emissions regulations for See Gas cars, A8
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100% by 2035, she said, “We all want to move in that direction, but it’s too aggressive.”
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Friday, December 1, 2023
A5
Camp Nerden fundraiser to be held Saturday A fundraiser for the John J. Nerden Regional Training Center Camp in Middlefield will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Panera Bread located at 1094 North Colony Road in Wallingford, from 4 to 8 p.m. It could be for eating in, take-out, drivethru or delivery. Camp Nerden will receive credit for 25% of sales on Saturday during the 4 to 8 p.m. time frame. For online sales, enter FUND4U. For in-person purchases, just mention Camp Nerden. Bring or show the flyer from Camp Nerden’s Facebook page so the Middlefield Camp will receive the credit for your purchases.
try to do this to bring in some money to help offset some of our costs. We are trying to do one a month if possible.” Camp Nerden is a summer camp that has been in existence since 1966 for people with intellectual disabilities ages 6 and above that offers swimming, arts & crafts, music, outdoor & indoor recreational activities, cookouts, special events and more. It is free for campers to attend.
The camp receives funding from local service clubs and the towns the campers reside in. Last summer Camp Nerden’s enrollment was 110 campers which increased from the previous summer with 18 staff and 40 According to Camp Nerden’s “Counselors in Training” volunteers. Director Sue Chenard, “We
A fundraiser for the John J. Nerden Regional Training Center Camp in Middlefield will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Panera Bread located at 1094 North Colony Road in Wallingford, from 4 to 8 p.m. Submitted photo
In Brief
The Town of Durham Recreation Department will host Cardio Drumming at the Community Center. The dates of the sessions will be Dec. 1, and Dec. 8. Each session will run from 11 to 11:50 a.m. To register, call 860-343-6724 or email recdirector@ townofdurhamct.org.
Boxwood/holly tree workshop The Durham Garden Club will conduct a workshop on Dec. 2, where attendees will create a boxwood or holly tree centerpiece. The workshop will take place at the Durham Community Center in two shifts, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 3 p.m., as space is limited.
Participants will provide their own container, small cutting shears and any decorations they wish to add. The club will provide oasis, boxwood and holly cuttings and their expertise. A $20 fee will be charged. Pre-registration is required. Contact Maryann Calvi calvimry1@outlook.com or 860-324-1963 to register or for more information.
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A6 Friday, December 1, 2023
Town Times | towntimes.com
Obituaries Christopher Menard
Vincent C. Ireton, Jr.
MIDDLEFIELD - It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Christopher Menard, 65, a dedicated patriot, loving fiancé, and cherished father. Christopher departed this world on November 16, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of honor, courage, and unwavering commitment to family and country. Born on September 10, 1958, Christopher grew up in Hartford, CT, where he developed a strong sense of duty and service from an early age. His call to serve led him to enlist in the United States Navy at 18, and he went on to proudly defend the freedoms and values that make our nation great. Off the battlefield, Christopher was a loving and supportive father. His family was the anchor that grounded him, providing the strength and support he needed to navigate the complexities of military life. Christopher is survived by his beloved fiancé Elizabeth Padersky, and his children; Devin Menard and Heather Winters, her husband Robert Winters, g r a n d c h i l d r e n -Ta t u m , Amelia, Caleb, Blake and Brody, Elizabeth’s son Dillion, Aunts and Cousins. Christopher was predeceased by his sister, Roberta Wennerberg. In life, Christopher was known for his generosity, selflessness, and willingness to lend a
ROCKFALL - Vincent C. Ireton, Jr., “Sonny”, 94, lifelong resident of Rockfall, died Thursday, November 23, 2023 at Apple Rehabilitation in Middletown. He was the beloved husband of the late Bernice (Misliwy/ Mysling) Ireton. He was born in Middletown, the son of the late Vincent C. Ireton, Sr. and Marie C. (Dominic) Ireton. He spent his childhood and young adulthood in Portland and left Portland to live in Rockfall upon his marriage to Bernice in 1952. Their marriage would last 65 years. He was employed for 48 years by the EIS Brake Parts Division of Standard Motor products. Vinny was a member of St. Colman Church in Rockfall and during his retirement he was an alter server for daily and funeral masses for many years under Reverends Robert Cronin, Lester Morris, Gregory Galvin, Gregory Mullaney, Anthony DiMarco, Michael Giannitelli, James Sucholet and Jan Swiderski. Vinny could also be counted upon by family and friends to lend a hand to work on any project that required an extra hand. A loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Vinny will be profoundly missed by his daughter Catherine Porter and her husband Malcom, son John Ireton, Sr., grandchildren Stacey Campanella and
helping hand. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable individual, let us also celebrate his extraordinary life. His legacy will endure in the stories shared by those who knew him, the memories that bring both tears and smiles, and the values he imparted to future generations. Family and friends may call on Monday, December 4th from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown, CT. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm in State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, where full military honors will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Legion Department of Connecticut in his name. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www. doolittlefuneralser vice. com.
her husband Michael, John Ireton, Jr. and great-grandson Parker Jayne and his father Brendan Jayne. Vinny was predeceased by his daughter in law Robin (DellaCamera) Ireton and also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be especially missed by nephew David Tokarz and his partner Pat Thompson. Vinny’s family would also like to recognize Vinny’s Rockfall neighbors Warren and Lorraine Hubbard and Jeff and Michelle Mazzetta. Warren could always be counted upon to help trouble shoot and fix any piece of household or garden equipment that needed attention while Jeff and Michelle would always take care of snow clearing, lawn mowing and cooking. Also, David, Pat, Warren and Lorraine could always be found at Apple Rehabilitation every Sunday afternoon visiting
and laughing with Vinny. A lifelong sports fan, Vinny was an especially avid Notre Dame football fan and during the college football season, could always be expected to be in front of the television or near a radio following the Fighting Irish. Vinny’s early introduction to sports as a young man came from his association with his many friends who met evenings in Middletown’s north end area. One of his best friends was a young man named Guglielmo Papaleo who would one day become the famous featherweight boxing champion “Willie Pep”. Vinny also enjoyed league bowling and playing cards at the seasonal card tournaments held at the Kosciuszko Society in Rockfall. Vinny’s family would like to thank the staff at Apple Rehabilitation in Middletown, especially Angel (CNA) and nurses Debbie, Tieita, Tracy, and Kayonna. Funeral services will be held on Saturday (Dec. 2nd) with a 10 a.m. Funeral Liturgy at St. Colman Church, Hubbard St., Middlefield. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Middletown. Visitation will be on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. at St. Colman Church. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Our Lady of Mercy Parish, 272 Main Street, Durham, CT 06422. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www. biegafuneralhome.com.
Charter changes From A1
including getting rid of term limits. “That one, I think, is one of the biggest ones,” he said, adding selectmen will need to fill at least five vacancies over the next 12 to 18 months because of term limits. He hopes he can convince voters that selectmen do a good enough
job vetting candidates, including town meeting to vote on the budget. those who are up for reappointment. If the Charter Review Commission Other rejected changes included ex- agrees, the process would follow a tending the time selectmen have to similar timeline. fill a vacancy from 30 days to 45 Yamartino said the commission days, limited leases of town land to would hold one or two hearings to 10 years and clarifying some conflicting language in the town charter. get feedback from the public, and selectmen would have one of their One change is clarifying the day the own. town is supposed to hold the annual
He hopes to get plenty of feedback from the public to determine which changes residents would reconsider. Yamartino said he also wants to know if residents want one question on the ballot or individual questions for each proposed change. If the town again proposes changes, Yamartino said a vote would likely be combined with the presidential election in November 2024.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, December 1, 2023
A7
Small business loans target diverse owners Inside a new commercial building, off Farmington Avenue in Berlin’s Kensington section, Beatriz Torres surveyed the scene as her plans for Studio 10 Hair & Nail Salon’s new location came to life. Along the back wall, shampoo bowls; a row of nail stations on the opposite wall; and an island of cabinets down the middle, where eight stylists will cut and color hair before large circular mirrors ringed with LED lights. Torres was visiting the space earlier this week to “see how everything looks” and to pitch in with the installation. She grabbed a screwdriver and started attaching matte black hardware to freshly unwrapped cabinets, declaring, “We got our first handle on!” The stylist-turned-business
owner hopes that relocating Studio 10 from its current location, in a sleepier strip of storefronts about a mile away, to the new development adjacent to Berlin’s train station will raise the profile of the business — while allowing her to expand and upgrade the services she offers. In order to pull off the new look for her business, Torres sought a low-interest loan for $40,000 from the state’s Small Business Boost Fund. The program, launched last year, aims to provide low-interest loans of up to $500,000 to Connecticut businesses with 100 or fewer employees and annual revenues of less than $8 million. It’s targeting businesses located in economically disadvantaged areas, as well as businesses owned by veterans, women and people of color. Applicants need to have been in operation for at
least a year before seeking funds through the program. The Department of Economic and Community Development, which oversees the program, reported so far about two-thirds of the 336 businesses approved for loans have “diverse ownership” — including at least one woman, person of color, veteran or member of the LGBTQ community. The department also said that businesses located in 12 of the state’s most distressed municipalities have received over $12 million of the $43 million distributed, or roughly 28%. According to data reviewed by The Connecticut Mirror, over 200 of the owners approved for Boost Fund loans so far are white, including 84 of the 137 woman-owned businesses. DECD Commissioner Alexandra Daum said she
date for Boost and someone that we’re trying to approach,” she said.
thinks the program is “doing a decent job” of reaching entrepreneurs who might not otherwise be able to obtain capital investment.
Still, she said, “I think there’s definitely room for improvement.” The program’s goal was to have more than half of its recipients meet the department’s definition of diverse ownership, but Daum acknowl-
“They could just be first time entrepreneurs. They could be someone who had a bad credit score from something way in their past. So there’s a lot of reasons that someone might be a good candi-
See Loans, A9
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A8 Friday, December 1, 2023
Town Times | towntimes.com
Gas cars
plement legislation?
From A4
The Republican minority, which has offered similar objections, is empowered under Connecticut’s unusual bipartisan system of reviewing and approving regulations. Unlike the regulatory framework of the federal government and many states, Connecticut gives the legislature veto power over regulations, albeit one that is supposed to turn on a narrow question: Does the regulation im-
row, it is really unconscionable.”
Attorney General William Tong said the proposed regulations meet the test of legal sufficiency. Charles Rothenberger, a climateand-energy lawyer with the environmental group Save The Sound, said Monday he found it “difficult, if not impossible, to make any logical sense of it” of the failure to adopt the regulations.
By rejecting the regulations, Connecticut is stepping away from two decades of progress that included adopting a low-emission vehicles program that set higher standards on gas and diesel engines that power cars and trucks, he said. “We are walking away from our longtime partners in the effort to clean up our air and protect public health in terms of Massachusetts in New York and Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Virginia,” Rothenberger said. “And we
“It’s really an embarrassment all the way around when it comes to this,” Rothenberger said. “If in fact the committee is not voting on these regulations tomor-
are declaring that we are content to align ourselves with the standards that are good enough for Alabama, and Mississippi, and West Virginia. And those are the states that we want to stand so it is you know, it boggles my mind.” While the regulations proposed by the Democratic administration of Lamont stem from a law passed in 2004 under a Republican governor, Republicans said the 2035 deadline for transitioning to zero-emission vehicles was a public policy change that most lawmakers could
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not have foreseen two decades ago. Senate Minority Leader Kevin Kelly, R-Stratford, a Regulation Review member, complained at a press conference two weeks ago that they reflect the desires of “unelected bureaucrats.” “The majority wants to believe that California is better for Connecticut than Connecticut. Nobody represents us in Sacramento,” Kelly said. On Monday, he said, “I think common sense prevailed. I do applaud the governor for withdrawing the regs, and I think this is what happens when we take issues from underneath the Capitol dome and go across Connecticut and bring issues to the people.” Chris Herb, president of the Connecticut Energy Marketers Association, a trade group that represents gasoline and heating oil distributors, applauded the withdrawal of the regulations, if cautiously. “This is victory for consumers who would have paid a big price tag for the state’s efforts to ban gas powered cars and trucks in the future. However, the battle may not be over,” Herb said. “It’s unclear what could happen next, but CEMA will continue to be vigilant in our opposition to this reckless policy. This is too much too fast, and we are not ready for an EV-only future.” This story originally appeared at ctmirror.org, the website of The Connecticut Mirror.
Whether it is a lost ring, wallet or a Parrot named Oliver, a Classified ad can help track it down.
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In order to reach business owners who might qualify, DECD ran a marketing campaign that included print, digital and radio advertisements. They also met with business groups and chambers of commerce around the state, and went door-todoor at businesses in 15 towns.
The program’s 4.5% interest
Hayley Segar, founder of Milford-based swimwear company onewith, obtained a $200,000 loan from the Boost Fund, which she put toward restocking inventory after her brand went viral
For entrepreneurs like Segar, scaling a product business takes “a ton of time and a ton of money,” she said. “There’s no prepackaged way to do this, unless you’re a celebrity. You have to find every possible resource on your own — everything from shipping to fulfillment, R&D and production was done
This story originally appeared on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, www.ctmirror.org.
Personable & Compassionate Live-in and Hourly Caregivers are needed for in-home non-medical care for elderly in the area.
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“I was scared, but I decided to take the jump, and almost three years later, here we are,” Torres said.
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For Torres, the loan represents Studio 10’s next chapter. She bought the business in January 2021, after working there as a stylist through the height of the pandemic.
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The Boost Fund is a revamped and updated version of Small Business Express, a grant and lending program the state administered for roughly a decade. For the new program, DECD outsourced administration of the loans to an outside agency, New York-based National Development Council. NDC then selected several community development financial institutions, or CDFIs, to provide advisory ser-
DECD aims to have all $150 million distributed within five years. The funds will be replenished as businesses pay back their loans, DECD leaders said, allowing the program to continue beyond that initial five-year timeframe.
painstakingly step by step. Emphasis on painstakingly.”
online. An adviser Segar works with at the Connecticut Small Business Development Center suggested she apply for the loan. “That $200,000 allowed us to top up on inventory in a big way,” Segar said.
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edged that’s a broad definition. “We’re exceeding the only hard and fast rule that we [set] but we’re not going to stop there or rest on our laurels,” Daum said. “I’d love to be doing better on all these categories, the sky’s the limit.”
The state put up half the program’s initial funding, $75 million, and another $75 million came from private partners including Citizens Bank, M&T Bank and First Republic Bank.
rate was set last year before the U.S. central bank approved a series of hikes to the federal funds rate, which now stands at 5.33%. Boost Fund loans will remain at 4.5%. That’s low in today’s market, Daum said, “and it’s fixed, so there’s not a question mark as to whether it’s going to change over the course of the loan.”
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vices to each loan recipient.
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Loans
Friday, December 1, 2023
DESIGNS • INSTALLATIONS • RENOVATIONS Kitchens • Baths • Drywall • Painting • Ceilings • Flooring • Interior • Doors
860-719-1917
lindajoneshomeimprovements@gmail.com HIC 644311
A10 Friday, December 1, 2023
Town Times | towntimes.com
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Reach over 310,000 readers. Call us today 203-238-1953
RJ MEDIA GROUP | Record-Journal | myrecordjournal.com | HOMEBASE Digital | Berlin Citizen | Cheshire Citizen | North Haven Citizen | Plainville Citizen | Southington Citizen | Town Times | The Post Help Wanted
Help Wanted
ELECTRIC UTILITY SYSTEM OPERATOR/ DISPATCHER
CLERK TYPIST
Operates electric distribution substation and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for an electric utility serving 25,000 customers. Coordinates electric system switching and places equipment in and out of service during routine and emergency operations. Requires HS diploma/GED with 2 years experience in the operation of Distribution SCADA equipment and/or switchboards used in the distribution of electricity. Experience and training may be substituted on a year for year basis. Must maintain valid system operation certification from Connecticut Valley Exchange (CONVEX) or other approved agency or be able to obtain the same within 90 days of hire. Must posses and maintain a valid State of CT driver’s license. $ 34.63 - $ 41.15 per hour plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and emailed to wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov. Fax #: (203) 294-2084. Closing date will be December 27, 2023. EOE.
Performs a wide variety of routine clerical duties requiring excellent computer and interpersonal skills. This position requires 1 year of office work experience of a responsible nature and a H.S., GED, or business diploma. Wages: $21.83 to $26.43 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request form the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203) 294-2080 Fax: (203) 294-2084. The closing date will be on December 11, 2023. EOE
GROW YOUR BUSINESS Advertise with us. 203-317-2312
Autos Wanted
TOP CASH PAID For any Toyota any condition, running or not, crashed okay. Will take other makes and models. (203) 600-4431.
TOP CASH PAID
HR GENERALIST - Town For Junk or unwanted of Cheshire seeks qualvehicles, Toyota’s etc. ified candidate for FT, Please call Mike @ 20335 hr/wk HR Generalist 284-8562 8am-5pm. in the HR Dept. Salary $65,132 to $84,186 Apartments For DOE/DOQ. Refer to Rent www.cheshirect.org for additional information LARGE 1 BR - In Quiet, on how to apply and safe, South Meriden for job description. The residential area, off Town of Cheshire is an street parking, $1,150 mo. (860) 934-2244. EEOE, M/F/D/V
Lawn and Garden
Wanted To Buy
Wanted To Buy
ANTIQUES - Always buying old; Toys, military, jewelry, art, watches, musical instruments, signs, arcade games, cameras, pre 1970 sports memorabilia, plus more. One item or entire estate contents. Call 860718-5132.
WANTED Individual MATERIALS firearms, collections & DISTRIBUTION estates including military Screened Topsoil $30/ per yd; 2.5” screened BUYING ALL - Costume & related items.Federally Jewelry, Old Watches, licensed firearms dealer. gravel, $18 per yd; SandGold Jewelry, Silver Gunsmith, appraisals, $18 per yd; Millings-$22 Jewelry, Gold & Silver Richard Pleines, per yd; Screened Millings Coins, Sterling Flat(860) 663-2214. $30 per yd; $100 miniware, In Any Condition. mum delivery. No pickup Please Call Jude M. truck service. Minimum Dichele @ (203) 86816 yd pickup at our yard. 1816. Call Jim @ 860-982BUYING MACHINIST 4819 for delivery TOOLBOXES - Tools & tooling, contents of PREMIUM machine shops, home SCREENED workshops and small lathes. Call anytime TOPSOIL 860-985-5760 $30/yard delivered, 3 yd, $100 min. delivery GRASSY HILL AUCCall Jim 860-982-4819 TIONS, - an Estate Sale, Liquidation, Attic A Classified ad & Basement Cleanout Company is Always is an easy way to sell Buying and providing your merchandise, services all over Conand it’s easy on necticut. These are just your wallet, too. a FEW of the things we are looking for: Antiques, Collectibles, Old/ Vintage Toys, Musical Instruments (SaxMiscellaneous For ophones, Trumpets, ViSale olins, Flutes, Clarinets, Trombone & SO MUCH TWIN MATTRESS SET MORE) Advertising New, $200. Call Kathy, Items, Wristwatches (203) 235-0875. (Broken or Not), Pocket Wood Fuel Heating Watches, Tools (Machinist, Woodworking, Equipment & MORE) Doorstops, TREE LENGTH Clocks, Oil Paintings, Old Signs, Old PhoFIREWOOD tographs, Old PostCALL FOR DETAILS cards, Brewery Items, 203-238-2149 Hunting & Fishing, PEZ Dispensers, Costume Jewelry, Broken JewelWanted To Buy ry, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, 1, 2, 3 CASH FOR YOUR Military Items, Swords ANTIQUES & JEWELRY & Bayonets, Helmets & - Call Todd Shamock at Patches, Medals & Uni203-494-1695. forms, Pocket Knives, Lighters & Pipes, FounALWAYS BUYING tain Pens, Mechanical CASH PAID Pencils, Fraternal Order Vintage Electronics, Items, Religious Items, Musical InstruIndustrial Items, Winments, Amps, Ham chester Items, Sikorsky Equipment, HiFi, Items, Pratt & Whitney Radios, CB, GuiItems, Colt Items, Natars, Audio Equiptive American Items, ment, Antiques. Vintage Electronics, 860-707-9350 Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Matchbox & Hotwheels, Barbie’s, Folk Advertise with us. ALWAYS BUYING Art, Statues, Bronzes, OLD TOOLS - Old, Trains, Cameras, Mid 203-235-1661 used, and antique Century Modern Furhand tools wanted. niture, Straight Razors, MACHINIST, woodShaving Items, Political working, engravItems, Comic Books, ing, and workbench Sports Cards & Autohand tools. Hunting graphs…& THE LIST equipment and fireGOES ON! So please arms also of intergive us a call at your est. Fair and honest earliest convenience. offers made in your Grassy Hill Auctions home. Please call 203-868-1816 - Grassy with confidence HillAuctions.com Cory (860) 322-4367.
Looking for a friend? Find litters of critters in Classifieds.
GROW YOUR BUSINESS
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Friday, December 1, 2023
Businesses & Services Attics and Basements Cleaned
A11
203-238-1953
Get Listed. Get Calls. Get Results.
Junk Removal
Landscaping
Moving and Storage
Roofing
GOOD RATES BEST SERVICE Fully ins. Free Estimate. Call Ed, We’ll take it to the dump for you!
IF YOU Mention This Ad FALL Yard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, s Storm damage **JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed! FREE ESTIMATES Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218
RT RELOCATION Your moving and storage specialists. Call for a free estimate. 833-668-3978.
Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing. Office:203.754.3071 Cell:203.510.3830 Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452
GARY WODATCH Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430
Carpentry CARPENTRY
Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. Call Bill (203) 901-2136. CT. Reg. # 0647093
GROW YOUR BUSINESS Advertise with us. 203-317-2312
Cleaning Services
HOUSECLEANING
Sm House $75; Med. House $95; Lrg House, $120. 16 years exp. Refs. Fabiana, 203.565.7745.
JUNK REMOVAL Hot Tub Removal, Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more. *FALL YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218
Electrical Services TEC ELECTRICAL
Whether it is a lost ring, wallet or a Parrot named Oliver, a Classified ad can help track it down.
Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service. Small Jobs Welcome. 203.237.2122
Gutters
GUTTERS CLEANED FALL CLEANUPS Painting Int. & Ext. Free Ests. Ins. Refs. Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745.
JT’S LANDSCAPING LLCS - FALL CleanUps, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning hedges & shrubs, & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today for free estimate, 203-213-6528.
Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT
Landscaping
GUTTERS DON’T WORK
#1 PAINTER’S EDGE Ext. & Int. Painting. Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper Remv’l. Decks. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136. Ins. 860.538.5520
Power Washing POWER WASHING Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE FREE Estimates #569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279
thru Friday. Call Us.
203-238-1953
Find great local eats - MenusCT.com
476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473 203-535-0149 Family owned/operated. Former proprietors of the Neptune Diner in Wallingford. Extensive menu for all tastes. Breakfasts, luncheons and special dinners. All baking on premises.
OVER 35 YRS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. Free est. 860.274.4893.
Open 8:30–5 Monday
Whether it’s a celebration, date night, or just grabbing a bite to eat, this list of local restaurants is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Colony Diner
FALL CLEANUPS! Schedule your fall cleanups & Snow removal. Senior discount - $50 off!
Classifieds
Let us help you find the perfect place to eat.
Adelphia Café
GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate. 203-440-3535 Ct. Reg. #578887
Roof Repair or Replacement, Chimney Repair, Skylight Replacement. Free est. CT #0651199 (860) 877-3006
Welcome to On The Menu.
ALEX EUROPEAN MASONRY - 30 yrs. exp. Patios, ret. walls, steps, brick, stone, chimneys. Lic#580443. 203-2320257 or 860-810-4196.
FALL CLEANUPS CALL TODAY!! 860.719.3953
HOME DOCTOR - 48 yrs exp. Odd jobs & remodeling, former US Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 203.427.7828.
Painting Wallpapering
Masonry
If they’re dirty! For gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127
Handyperson
Thank You for Shopping Local
611 N Colony Road Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-9507 colonydiner.com Wallingford’s place to go for oldfashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Proudly serving up delicious and hearty meals daily. Voted Best Diner 4 years running by Record Journal. Open seven days. Breakfast served all day.
Athena II Diner
320 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473 203.239.0663 www.athena2diner.com Open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Accept Q Cards. Serving North Haven for 30 years. Daily specials and full liquor available.
ATTENTION:
RESTAURANT OWNERS! To advertise your restaurant to 269,000 weekly readers Call us 203-317-2312
A12 Friday, December 1, 2023
Town Times | towntimes.com
Thank you to our 2023 Meriden Daffodil Festival Sponsors. Without their generosity, we could not continue to deliver the weekend our community eagerly awaits. Friends and family come from miles around to enjoy the festivities you assist us in delivering. We are also thankful for our non-profit food vendors. This collaboration has grown into a wonderful working relationship over our 43 years. We look forward to our future together. Please, consider becoming a sponsor for the 2024 Meriden Daffodil Festival, May 4 and 5, 2024. Contact Lisa Suzio to discuss the various sponsorship opportunities at lisasuzio@sbcglobal.net. ***Early incentives are available***
EVENT SPONSORS City of Meriden
Class Act Auto LLC
Record-Journal
Suzio York Hill
BANDSHELL SPONSOR Hartford Healthcare
GOLD JDS Electric
The Whale 102.9
WPLR 99.1
SILVER Ion Bank
Liberty Bank
Members First Credit Union
T Mobile
BRONZE American IT Solutions
Frontier Communications
New England Capital Financial Advisors
Best Roofing
I’Lann Realty LLC
Rob’s Roofing
Branford Planet Fitness
Inn Season Resorts
Southern New England Windows LLC
Cutco
LaRosa Building Group
Valentin Karate
David Lerner Associates
Meriden Lions Club
Yankee Home
SUPPORTER Advanced Behavioral Health
LaRosa Construction Company Inc
K & A Enterprises
Mahon, Quinn & Mahon PC
SLR International Corporation
PATRON John J Ferry & Sons Inc
Meriden Manufacturing Inc
Jonal Laboratories
Roman Oil Company Inc
Suzio Insurance Center Inc
FRIEND East Side Veterinary Clinic
Masterwork Productions
Porcelain Portraits Photography
Cornerstone Fence Co
Hunters Golf Club
Meriden Youth Theater
Solomon Goffe House
Denya’s Auto Body
Jen Lehner
Moran’s TV and Appliance
Southington Country Club
Earth Contractors
Luchs Consulting Engineers LLC
Perfection Automotive
Turf Products Corp
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Civali’s Auto