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For dry cleaners, business is drying up in pandemic By Laura B. Hayden

Friendly’s founder, noted philanthropist dies S. Prestley Blake, who founded the Friendly’s restaurant chain with his brother Curtis in 1935, died Feb. 11 at the age of 106. Along with being known for his work at Friendly’s, Blake, a Somers resident, was noted in this area for his philanthropic interests, ranging from area colleges to the currently under construction S. Prestley and Helen Blake Ambulatory Care Center in Enfield. See story, page XX. Photo by Julie Cotnoir

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While much has been made known about the debilitating effect COVID-19 has had on the restaurant industry – closing 16% of eateries nationwide – the same percentage of dry cleaners has closed or gone bankrupt since the start of the pandemic a year ago, according to the National Cleaners Association. Enfield’s E-Jay’s Cleaners posted signs before the holidays indicating the business was closing. The phone number of the once-popular venue on Hazard Avenue, founded in 1999, remains out of service, as does the phone number to the Somers Cleaners located on Main Street in the neighboring town. Even Swiss Cleaners, a larger family chain of dry cleaners spread throughout the North Central Connecticut area, closed its Coventry location last month. The loss of one of the Swiss Cleaners’ six stores matches the 16% loss in the industry nationwide. The remaining five stores — in East Windsor, Ellington, Manchester, Rockville, and Vernon — have modified

Shawn, an account manager at Swiss Cleaners & Uniform Services, loads his truck for next day delivery of uniforms, a service that has helped keep the business afloat during COVID-19. Photo by Jessica Matton hours since the beginning of COVID-19 and have been forced to reduce staff. “It is never easy to make the decision to remove ourselves from a physical presence in a community,” said Jessica Mattson, brand and marketing manager

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In-Person Experiences: Women Take Flight offers opportunities for visitors to discover the history of New England women in aerospace by connecting one-on-one with women employed in the aviation industry. This year we’re offering the following social-distanced, in-person experiences for museum visitors as part of Women Take Flight 2021. All activities are included with general admission and are subject to change.

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Women in Aerospace Chats: own unit with air taken out and Saturday March 6, March 13, March 20, and March 27, 2021 fresh air coming in. Join us every Saturday in March from 10:30am-12:30pm for an opportunity to meet a local woman in aviation. From pilots to engineers to aerospace industry professionals, we’ll have a special guest onsite each Saturday for social distanced chats with visitors on a drop-in basis. • March 6, 2021: Kristi Fleischmann, Managing Director, Acrojet Aerospace Solutions

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Regional Cleaners may find changes to business will become permanent (continued from page 1) of Swiss Cleaners & Uniform Services. “We have spoken to or reached out to all of our customers who go to that store. Each one has been encouraged to sign up for our free pickup and delivery service,” Mattson added. The decline in dry cleaning business is due to the work-from home phenomena COVID-19 restrictions rendered on the workplace. However, unlike the restaurant industry which hopes to return to normal later in the year – as widespread vaccination eases worries for diners – a return to business-as-usual in the world of business offices is not likely. According to Bloomberg News, “Working from home is here to stay, especially for white-collar employees,” with large companies like Facebook indicating the switch could be permanent. Earlier this year The Hartford Business Journal reported, “Since so many organizations have spent time working in a remote environment due to

The crew of Earthlight Solar in Ellington wear custom hoodies Swiss Cleaners and Uniform Services has provided — an example of the diversification the cleaners is promoting as dry-cleaning services lessen in demand. Photo by Liz Gallic COVID-19, we’ve quickly learned what home employees will be able to continworks for this unique situation and ue to get their jobs done wearing comwhich areas need improvement. Many fortable, casual wash-and-wear clothes. organizations have already adopted a Even when attending online business permanent remote-work model moving meetings, professionally cleaned clothinto the future.” ing only needs to be worn from the waist With that trend in sight, work-from- up.

“We have coped with it like any other businesspeople with fewer customers,” Mattson said. “We send coupons with special offers to customers who are subscribed to our newsletter. We also post reminders on social media to encourage regular cleaning of things like bedding and outerwear. Regular laundry never ends, and we have seen an increase in the amount of people using our wash and fold laundry service, and we’re thankful for that.” Mattson expects the next year to continue to be a challenge for retail dry cleaning. Still, she says, “We are optimistic because our success as a business is not contingent on the success or failure of dry cleaning. Many years ago, we diversified our income stream by investing in our newest division known as Swiss Uniforms. Our main areas of expertise include uniform rental, floor mats, restroom supplies, embroidered logo apparel, and screen printing.”

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East Windsor First Selectman’s Corner

Department finds way to integrate policing into social work EAST WINDSOR — Last year, the legislature passed the Police Accountability Bill, a measure seen by many as overly reactive to national events. The bill was certainly rushed, and while well-intentioned, inevitably requires manJason Bowsza dates to be placed on municipalities as implementation approaches. One component of the bill sought to integrate social work into local policing, to assist in the appropriate level of intervention while responding to mental health calls (which in East Windsor constitute our four highest instances of call volume). The bill required each police department to evaluate the feasibility and community impact of having a social worker respond with police officers to certain calls (mental health) for service. Agencies can employ, contract, or otherwise engage social workers to help officers or use a mobile crisis team. Agencies were required to submit a complete evaluation within six months of the passage of the accountability bill, which we have done. In East Windsor, we think we have a better way. Our police department administration, led by Chief Edward J. DeMarco, Jr., recognized the intention of the legislation, and has developed a program that we

Our police department administration has developed a program that we think could be a model for accomplishing the goals of the Police Accountability Bill legislation. think could be a model for accomplishing the goals of the Police Accountability Bill legislation. In fact, our police administration started working on this program nearly four years ago. The department administration has supported one of its officers, Tamrah Stepien, as she has completed her master of social work and state licensure as a clinical social worker in the state of Connecticut. On her own time, Officer Stepien has completed the more than 900 volunteer hours necessary to obtain her license as a social worker, while also maintaining her certification as a police officer as well (POST-C). My budget recommendation supports Chief DeMarco’s simple, straightforward way of integrating Officer Stepien’s social work training into her work as a police officer by removing her from the patrol division and setting up a comprehensive Mental Health Team in the police department. Led by Officer Stepien, the program would be supported by two part-time clinical social workers funded through the Youth Services Bureau grant and would

continue to work in conjunction with the town’s Department of Community Services. Using a data-driven model, we will be able to provide a higher degree of preventative policing and intervention during the times and in places where the evidence most clearly supports the need for that assistance. Inclusion of a social worker who is a sworn police officer will also provide additional resources to police officers exposed to mentally challenging events in the line of duty that occur on a regular basis. Rather than integrate social workers into policing, this model integrates policing into social work. We believe this is a more efficient, more streamlined means of accomplishing the objectives of the Police Accountability Bill and does this in a way that maximizes responses to the community and lessens the risk to our first responders. This common-sense proposal is my highest budget priority this year, and I commend Chief DeMarco and his team for their creativity.

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COMMUNITY EVENTS Bunny Hop Scavenger Hunt Local businesses and organizations - We are looking for sponsors for an all new easter event! Bunny sponsorships cost $100 per business, with all sponsorship proceeds going towards Summer

Program Scholarships. Your sponsorship includes a business card size logo on our website home page and Facebook feature on our page during the month of April! All sponsors will also be provided with a 4-foot wooden bunny to decorate and place outside their business. we will be creating an interactive map for members of the community to view and visit all the bunnies included in the scavenger hunt! For more information & to sponsor a bunny, please visit www.EastWindsorRec.com. Humans of East Windsor In a time when it’s easy to lose faith in humanity and hard to 昀nd common ground, we would like to highlight people in our community who keep East Windsor Strong. If you know of someone who is an unsung hero, who goes above and beyond, or who has a story to tell, please 昀ll out the form found on our Humans of East Windsor Facebook page or www.EastWindsorRec.com. We hope to feature one person or group every few weeks in the hopes of

Seasonal Positions for Summer 2021 East Windsor Parks & Recreation is anxiously awaiting warmer days and being able to gather again at East Windsor Park. We are now accepting applications for summer seasonal positions. This year we are hiring for the following positions: Assistant Camp Director, Camp Counselors, Lifeguards, Swim Instructors & Gatehouse/Snack Bar Staff. All applicants should be 16 years of age. We will accept applications until all positions are 昀lled. Applications can be downloaded from the Town of East Windsor website or at www. EastWindsorRec.com. Completed applications can be mailed to the Parks & Recreation Of昀ce at 25 School Street, East Windsor CT 06088. Applications can also be placed in the black drop box outside of the Town Hall Annex. Please call 860.627.6662 with any questions.

March 2021 North Central News

EAST WINDSOR PARK UPDATE • Visit our website and Facebook page for craft tutorials, Facebook Live videos and fun and exciting things to do at home! #EastWindsorRECathome • Town Parks are open for passive use. Sports 昀elds, courts and playgrounds have opened in accordance with state regulations and phase procedures. Please call us in the of昀ce at 860.627.6662 for up to date information. • While our of昀ce is currently closed to the public, we are running limited programs in both virtual and in-person formats. Please visit www.EastWindsorRec.com to register for programs.

Limerick Contest This year’s theme is Kindness! Your limerick must contain 5 lines: Lines 1, 2 & 5 must rhyme with each other. Lines 3 & 4 must rhyme with each other. All entries must be received by Monday, March 15th for judging. Winners in each age group (Grades K-1, Grades 2-4, Grades 5-8, Grades 9-12 & Adults ages 18 and up) will receive a Barnes & Noble Gift card. Entries can be submitted online at www.EastWindsorRec.com.

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East Windsor

Marvel and Grace Gymnastics opens in town By Laura B. Hayden EAST WINDSOR — Three months ago may have been both the best of times – and the worst – to start a new gymnastics business in East Windsor. But that was when “everything started coming together,” according to Michelle Boucher Lowe, owner of Marvel and Grace Gymnastics, located at 84 S. Main St. Boucher Lowe also owns the Crossfit Invulnerable gym in East Windsor, just 2 miles away, with her husband Brian. She had been looking for a place to start a gymnastics center for a few years. When the South Main Street site – a former cheerleading center – became available, she couldn’t let the opportunity pass her by. Besides the wide spaces and high ceilings needed for gymnastics, “it already had two pits,” Boucher Lowe said. Pits are safety training constructions in which a large quantity of soft foam is used to cushion gymnasts’ landings and falls. A longtime gymnast and high school track participant, Boucher Lowe has taught gymnastics for over 10 years. According to the business’ website she is joined by coaches Meghan Signorale, Healther Sprouse, and Dalena Tran. The Marvel and Grace

Gymnastics program includes ”Parent and Me” classes for 1 ½ to 3 year-olds, and classes for pre-school and schoolage beginners. Tumbling, Advanced Classes, and Competitive Programs are also available Owner Michelle Boucher Lowe, left, confers with a parent at Marvel and Grace During this Phase 2.1 of Connecticut Gymnastics. Gymnasts practice with masks on at facility. restrictions due to COVID-19, Marvel Photos by Laura B. Hayden and Grace Gymnastics is currently operating at 50% capacity. Group class instruction is also limited to 50%. Anyone entering the building is required to wear a mask and maintain six feet of space between equipment and people. For more information about Marvel and Grace Gymnastics go to marvelandgracegymnastics.com or call (860) 623-1324.

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Ellington

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First Selectwoman’s Corner

Spring is in the air — along with hope ELLINGTON — Happy spring — we’re almost there! I’ve been very busy working in partnership with the North Central District Health Department, as well as the towns of Vernon, Stafford, Tolland, and South Windsor. We’ve been doing our best to set up COVID-19 vaccine clinics here in town as vaccine doses become available. There has been uncertainty of when the next round of doses will become available, as well as how many there will be, so planning has been difficult, but we’ve been fortunate to hold two clinics so far in conjunction with the North Central District Health Department and Priority Urgent Care, with Dr. Daksh Rampal and his team. Vernon has a call center set up to assist people with setting up COVID-19 vaccine appointments; it can be reached at (860) 896-4568. We were able to put bags together for those with vaccine appointments; items included informative flyers, prescription cards, water, body wash, and hand sanitizer, received at no cost to the town. We just completed a round of interviews for the Senior Center director position, as Mrs. Graziani, long-time director and town employee, recently retired.

860.394.4262 : FAX NorthCentralNews@aol.com

First Selectwoman Lori Spielman stnds with some of the bags tha have been put together for those who have appointments to get the COVID-19 vaccination.

We are a free, monthly publication that is direct mailed to r East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Somers, Stafford and Suffield, Conn. We are also available at more than 100 high traffic locales throughout Vernon and Windsor Locks for free pick up. The North Central News was created in June of 2002 and continues to be both family-owned and locally operated. Publisher/Editor

We are also well into the budget process, including our capital improvements items. The purchase of 80 Maple St. by the town has been finalized. This property is directly behind Center School and will be preserved for any future expansion that may be needed. This is the fourth property we’ve acquired through the assistance of Dan Keune and Campbell-Keune Realty Inc. I want to personally thank Dan and his team, as they have been hugely helpful in all of these processes and have not charged the Town for their services. Our Veterans Memorial project, located by the Hall Memorial Library, is a priority for us this year; the sidewalks along Main Street were completed through a grant and are improving accessibility through the center of town,

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including the new Veterans Memorial statue. We’re also working on a sidewalk project along Route 83, for which a grant was also received. You may have noticed some additional construction in the area, as The Barnyard is building a beautiful covered bridge. Town Offices will be closed on Friday, April 2 for Good Friday; there will not be a delay in trash and recycling collection.

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Ellington

8 North Central News March 2021

Kindergarten registration Online registration is underway for all Ellington children entering kindergarten in September. To be eligible for registration, a child must be 5 years old on or before Jan. 1, 2022. A birth or baptismal certificate showing the date of birth is required by state statute before any child can be registered in a Connecticut public school. Parents or guardians must also provide documentation of residency in Ellington. Parents can navigate to the district website registration page at: https://www.ellingtonpublicschools.org/parents/registration Call (860) 896-2300, ext. 119 with any questions/concerns.

Library information The library is again open for browsing and all services are available as they were in the fall. Curbside services are still provided for those who need. Please continue to put returns in the outside book drops; they are quarantined for 72 hours before being checked in. Any fines accumulated during the quarantine period will be removed when items are checked in. Temporarily adjusted hours are: Monday, Wednesday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday, Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Sunday. To receive updates in your email, sign up on the website. Library cards: You may renew your card by coming into the library or by curbside. To renew, bring your ID and your “big” library card—the credit-card-sized card with your name and address on it. The key tag card is not your legal library card. If the big card is lost, there is a charge to replace the set. Once you are here, you will fill out an information card and in a few minutes the card will be

updated and renewed. For those who prefer curbside service, call when you arrive and we can handle it all outside. If you don’t yet have a card, the process is the same—bring your ID and proof of Ellington residency and we will issue you a card. Zoom help: Many library programs are on Zoom right now. If you have questions, need a quick lesson, or would like to practice before a big meeting, Call Sue at the Library at (860) 870-3160. Grab & Go Crafts: Two new crafts for March. Kits are available for pickup. Fortune Teller: through March 15; Branch Weaving: March 16-31 Trivia, via Zoom, for Teens and Tweens: March 31, 7 p.m. Join us for some Trivia fun on Kahoot. Participants must have access to a smart phone, tablet, computer, etc. as it is an online game. Register on the Hall Memorial Library Calendar. HML Book Discussion for March – “Nomadland” by Jessica Bruder, March 17, 7 p.m. via Zoom. Books available at the Library; ebook at OverDrive/Libby; eaudio at Hoopla.

Selectmen make panel appointments ELLINGTON — The following appointments were made at the Feb. 8 Board of Selectmen meeting. Human Services Commission: Appointed Lenora Williams to complete an unexpired term to Jan. 31, 2022. Ad Hoc Emergency Services Committee: Reappointed Gary Feldman, Sr., Robert Edwards, Peter Hany, Sr., Jack Rich II, Joseph Palombizio, and Timothy Seitz to serve oneyear terms to Feb. 28, 2022; Appointed Bruce Hoffman to serve a one-year term to Feb. 28, 2022. Ad Hoc Government Study Committee: Reappointed Betsi Feldman, Sanford Cohen, F. Michael Francis, James Prichard, and Mary Percoski to serve three-month extensions of their original terms to May 31. Planning and Zoning Commission: Appointed Ken Radziwon to serve as an alternate member to complete an unexpired term to Sept. 30. Ad Hoc Ellington Trails Committee: Appointed Ken Radziwon to complete an unexpired term to April 30.

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Enfield

For Miller family, time is right to sell Shop-Rite Commitment to area will continue, however By Laura B. Hayden ENFIELD — In 2010, Charles Miller recognized home-grown values of commitment, community, and collaboration when he and his family decided to move to the area as owners of an Enfield ShopRite. These days, these qualities will remain in their thoughts and actions, even as they pass the store to new owners. “It’s bittersweet ... yet a bit of a relief too,” said former key owner Miller about the transition that was in consideration for two or three years. According to Miller, the Environmental Protection Agency introduced many environmental compliances for the industry in the past decade. “It was a new world of compliance of disposal and recycling of products we sold,” Miller said. The new owners will face the more

recent changes in grocery selling practices, “with e-commerce being the biggest,” he said. How it began Miller recalled how “something special about the Enfield community,” nestled in North Central Connecticut, spoke to the Miller family as the outof-towners got involved with the possibility of opening the new ShopRite at the Brookside Plaza 11 years ago. The journey started when New Jersey-based Wakefern Foods Corp., the largest retailers cooperative group of supermarkets in the United States, invited Raymond Miller, the family patriarch, into co-op membership after he had worked for over 35 years in the company. The invitation led to Raymond launching Miller Farms Family Markets, The ShopRite of Enfield, with his daughter MaryBeth Duffy and son

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MaryBeth Duffy, Raymond Miller, Robyn Miller, Adeline Miller and Charles Miller. The Miller family ended its ownership of the Enfield ShopRite after more than a decade in February. Charles Miller in 2009. The criteria for the award are not MaryBeth previously ran a travel scholastic or athletic accomplishments, agency in New Jersey, where she but rather teachers’ nominations of stuwould stay in proximity to the dents who have shown themselves to Wakefern Corp. base. Charles, who had be responsible and encouraging role started a home-building and contractor models to the school community. business in the state of Washington “It was my father’s brainchild to after a post-college stint as an Alaskan look beyond scholastics and recognize fisherman, headed east. students who are participating in “I came back from the West Coast improving our world,” said Charles. and looked at locations with Dad,” The NCCCC will continue the Miller reminisced Charles Miller, just days Family tradition to recognize the comafter the Enfield ShopRite changed passionate acts of area high school stuownership in February. dents with the Northern Connecticut In time, the Millers were invited to a Act of Kindness Awards. vetting process for the Enfield location Charles recalled a conversation he (which was previously a Shaw’s mar- had with a customer who contacted him ket). upon hearing the news of the sale of the “To their credit, they were very con- store. cerned with success and a long-term “It made me think of the first time I commitment to the store and the com- met you,” said the customer. “I came munity,” said Charles, who currently up to the service desk and you said, serves as president of the North Central ‘Tell me what I can do to help and I’ll Connecticut Chamber of Commerce. do it.’ In the past Charles and his wife “He went on to say, ‘You never lost Robyn Lee have also co-chaired the that part of it.’ It was so meaningful to Asnuntuck Community College hear that,” said Charles. Foundation’s annual murder-mystery Publishers Policy dinner and participated with fund-raisThe information presented in the (Loavesfor alsolocal non-profits including efforts available for sale) North Central News is presented for your ing the Enfield Food Shelf. consideration and does not neccssarily represent the views of the publisher or its Kindness Award will continue In addition, The Miller Family advertisers. All information is checked established the ShopRite Kindness for accuracy, but cannot be guaranteed. award in 2014 to showcase North Liability for errors in advertising is limitCentral Connecticut high school stu- ed to rerun of the ad. Errors in advertising dents who make their school a better should be brought to the attention of the place through daily acts of kindness publisher in writing, within seven days of publication for appropriate credit. and compassion.

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10 North Central News March 2021

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ABOUT US Mr. T's Power Wash is a family owned and operated business with over thirty years of experience in the industry. We're based in Tolland, CT, but our service area includes most of North-Central Connecticut and South-Central Massachusetts. We share a strong commitment to family values, and it comes across in the way that we do business. We always make an effort to treat our customers as a part of our extended family - with courtesy and respect. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide high quality services at fair and competitive prices. One thing that helps us stand out from our competition is that we enjoy good conversation. We strive to answer every phone call personally, although that keeps getting harder as our business continues to grow. But rest assured, if you have to leave a message, WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL at our earliest opportunity. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and we will do our best to explain things in a manner that makes you feel comfortable to have us service your home, business or property.

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Enfield

Scone sale The annual St. Joseph’s Residence Scone Sale is now taking orders. Orders can be placed by texting LSPScones to 76278. Scones are two for $3 or four for $5. Scones will be available to drive-thru pickup at St. Joseph’s Residence 1365 Enfield St., on March 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. St. Joseph’s Residence provides care for 85 elderly poor residents. Proceeds will help to complete many of the ongoing building projects that are in need of being upgraded and/or replaced.

Crafts Cart Recreation Department Crafts Cart activities are for those who are not comfortable attending in-person classes, are unable to make an in-person class, or need an activity to fill a child’s downtime. St. Patrick’s Day coloring pages, rainbow paper chains, leprechaun magnets and more are available for Enfield youth while supplies last. Aactivities are free and can be picked up by calling the Recreation Office at (860) 253-6420 to schedule a time for pickup. St. Patrick’s craft A free Rainbow Lacing St. Patrick’s Day craft kit for Enfield youth ages 6 years and older can be reserved by calling the Recreation Office at (860) 2536420. Kits are available until March 31 or while supplies last. See website for details.

Thank You North Central News Readers For Voting Us Best Electrician

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ACC program featured in new book ENFIELD — Asnuntuck Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center is featured in the new book “Workforce Education: A New Roadmap,” from MIT Press. Written by Massachusetts Institute for Technology professors William B. Bonvillian and Sanjay E. Sarma, the book explores the gaps and problems in the United States workforce education system, while also spotlighting how programs, including the one offered at Asnuntuck, are helping to mitigate the deficiencies in the country to build a stronger workforce. “We spent time visiting and learning about apprenticeship programs, about new employer training programs, and visiting lots of community colleges. We found that our community colleges are our critical, not-so-secret weapon in educating our workforce, so we spent time at many,” said Bonvillian. It was while the two were researching programs that they learned from an MIT friend, who grew up in Enfield, about Asnuntuck’s program and Bonvillian set up a visit to the college. “I was very impressed by the programs they presented in advanced manufacturing skills that reached not only community college students but students from area high schools and incumbent workers at area companies.” Bonvillian added, “In the book we called this the ‘trifecta’ – Asnuntuck was using its flexible programs, its year-round schedule, and its new advanced manufacturing center with its up-to-date equipment to reach three groups - workers and high school students, as well as more traditional community college students.”

Thank You North Central News Readers for voting Dr. Fignar

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Enfield Kissel announces grant for Loaves & Fishes

20 North Central News March 2021

MANCHESTER — With the prolonged impact of the COVID-19 pandemic being felt by Connecticut families and individuals, local food distribution facilities continue to see strong demand from area residents. That’s why state Sen. John A. Kissel was pleased to announce that Enfield Loaves & Fishes, a local soup kitchen providing hospitality to those in need, will benefit from a second $25,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The James M. Cox Foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises and the parent company of Cox Communications and Cox Automotive. In response to the growing strain on feeding the community, the foundation announced a $25,000 donation to support people in need where Cox lives and works earlier this year, with similar grants allocated to Wethersfield Food and Clothing Bank and Cheshire Community Food Pantry. “Enfield, like so many other Connecticut communities, relies on local food pantries and distribution facilities to help keep our neighbors in

need fed and healthy,” Kissel said. “The monumental efforts of Enfield Loaves and Fishes, coupled with this generous second donation from the James M. Cox Foundation, means that meals will continue to be served to anyone who seeks nourishment at a time when the pandemic and winter season create additional challenges.” Enfield Loaves & Fishes has steadfastly addressed the increased demand for food assistance as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency and has continued to see record high demand throughout the fall and winter seasons. “In a year like no other, this support from the James M. Cox Foundation and Senator Kissel has made it possible to address the challenges our friends and neighbors are facing by providing them with nutritious and fresh meals,” said Priscilla Brayson, director of Enfield Loaves & Fishes. “Establishments like ours take on new significance in emergencies, and with it comes new burdens. We are grateful to have partners looking out for us while we look out for the community.”

Recreation Dept. offers trivia contest, Virtual Rec. Center ENFIELD — Think you have what it takes to conquer the Recreation Department’s holiday trivia contest? From Groundhog Day to the Spring Equinox — and everything in between — this contest has six questions that are fit for the entire family. View the questions in the Recreation Department’ February-March Newsletter (page 3) or on the website. Submit your family’s answers via email to bfairman@enfield.org for your chance to win a prize pack. The last day to enter is March 19. In addition, the Recreation Department’s Virtual Recreation Center is offering more than 50 activities that can be enjoyed from the safety and comfort of home. The Virtual Recreation Center aims to provide resources and activities that are 100% free. New programs will be added regularly to keep the families engaged and having fun while at home. Recent resources that were being offered provided hints to help you tackle the cold and enjoy a winter hike. Drop by the Virtual Rec. Center today at www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation.

Send Your News: northcentralnews@aol.com

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March 2021 North Central News

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Education Eastern students build website to help navigate vax appointments WILLIMANTIC — Five Eastern Connecticut State University students have created a user-friendly website to help individuals schedule COVID19 vaccination appointments. Among the students is junior Jonathan Shooner of Somers, who served as the code reviewer. Shooner majors in Computer Science and Business Information Systems. The students were mentored by Alex Citurs, professor of business information systems. They also needed to find a way to bridge the technology proficiency gap of some users, particularly senior citizens. The project team started working in January with the goal of streamlining and simplifying the vaccination appointment process. The students aligned their individual strengths to related project tasks. In addition to meeting several times a day on Zoom, the team also met regularly with Citurs and their client, Susan Starkey, director of the Northeast District of the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Top row (from left): Professor Alex Citurs, Shannon Miller (NBC reporter), junior Jon Shooner. Middle: senior Gary Kozlowski, sophomore Hunter Vetterkind, Sue Starkey (director of Northeast District Department of Health). Bottom: senior Leo Vargas and senior Luis Serrano-Villa.

Serve your community or begin a new career.

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22 North Central News March 2021

March 16-May 20, 2021 5:30pm-9:30pm Tuesdays/Thursdays In Person Skill Sessions

Registration Deadline March 10th Payment Plans Available Our Emergency Medical Technician program prepares participants to respond to medical and trauma emergencies. EMTs respond to emergency 911 calls, assess ill and injured individuals, administer lifesaving interventions, and transport patients to hospital Emergency Departments aboard ambulances for further treatment. This exciting and demanding course covers human anatomy and physiology, treatment of sick and injured individuals, and transportation of these patients to the hospital. Our course curriculum uses interactive lectures, hands-on practical training, clinical observation time in a variety of settings including onboard ambulances and in hospital emergency departments. The instructors at First Approach EMS Education are experienced EMS professionals that bring real-world situations into the classroom. A blend of hands-on practice and interactive lectures prepare First Approach EMT students for certification testing and to work as an EMS provider.

American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/AED & First Aid The First Aid/CPR/AED course incorporates the latest science and teaches students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illnesses, head, neck, back injuries, heat and cold emergencies and how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies to help victims of any age - adults (about 12 years and older) and pediatric (infants and children up to 12 years of age). Students who successfully complete this course will receive an American Heart Association completion certificate valid for two years. Participant Manual included with course fee. Registration Deadline: 3 days prior to class date.

EMT Class (Blended Learning) **Scholarships Available**

Mental Health First Aid

Saturday, April 24, 2021 9am – 4pm Just as CPR helps you assist an individual having a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid helps you assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis. In the Mental Health First Aid course, you learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for how to help someone in both crisis and non-crisis situations, and where to turn for help. Workbook and Certificate of Completion included.

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First Approach EMS Education EMT Student pass rates exceed national and state averages. Our programs are highly regarded within the EMS community. Many of our past students work and volunteer for EMS services throughout the state and country. Course Tuition includes: Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured, 11th Edition American Heart Association BLS Provider certification Blood pressure cuff, stethoscope and penlight First Approach EMS Education Polo Shirt for clinical observation Online Access to Interactive Classroom

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All Classes Held at First Approach EMS Education - 2 Craftsman Road. East Windsor, CT 06088

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Regional Plenty to squawk about: Program on chickens coming to Strong Family Farm VERNON — The Strong Family Farm Backyard Chicken Program is a fun and educational way to help children and their families experience farming life – and chickens – in a unique way. The chicks will arrive on the farm March 29. Beginning June 23, the Backyard Chicken Program takes place on alternating Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m., through October. Families and adults participating in the program not only will get to spend quality time with the chickens, but they will also: — Learn basic chicken anatomy and responsibility for caring for the chickens; — Why chickens are an important part of our lives; — Guess when the first egg will be laid; — Identify how chickens are the same and different from each other; — Explore the farm collecting treats for the chickens — and collecting treats for yourselves too. Each class is a variety of instruction, craft or project, exploring and learning about the farm, and hands-on interactions with the chickens. The orgranizers say that it’s always a lot of fun to watch the chicks grow and change from week to week. The cost of the Backyard Chicken Program is a one-time donation of $40, which helps cover the cost of the care and feeding of the chickens, as well as the lessons and other activities. For more information and to sign up, visit www.strongfamilyfarm.org/backyardchicken-program. The Strong Family Farm is located at 247 West Street in Vernon.

WITH TOUCHPOINTS AT HOME AND TOUCHPOINTS REHAB YOU GET COMPLETE SUCCESS When I learned I could have the same Physical Therapist at home that I had at Touchpoints at Manchester, I immediately chose Touchpoints at Home. The very next day, Kim and Piotr were at my home. The appointments were always set up based on my preference and they were always on 琀me. I have had homecare in the past, but the care and educa琀on I received from the Touchpoints team was nothing like I had ever experienced! AMAZING! Both Physical Therapists and my nurse, spent the essen琀al 琀me to provide me with comprehensive informa琀on about my surgery, helped me be琀er understand why I was feeling discomfort , especially about what is expected. Once I understood the anatomy of my surgery and the healing process, I was able to comfortably manage my discomfort and gradually increase my ac琀vity around my home. I was able to set realis琀c goals. My stress became very low and my recovery soared! The excep琀onal knowledge and skills of this Touchpoints rehab team is light years be琀er that I could have ever expected. I am now ready for Outpa琀ent Physical Therapy. I chose Touchpoints Rehab Outpa琀ent services because I will be able to con琀nue my care with the same therapists! How great is that. With Touchpoints at Home and Touchpoints Rehab you get complete success.

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Matthew Couzens Honored On The Financial Times’ List of “400 Top Financial Advisers” Matthew Couzens CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC®, APMA® a Private Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Financial in Glastonbury was named to the list of “Financial Times 400 Top Financial Advisers” published by the Financial Times. The annual list recognizes the most outstanding financial advisors who represent the highest levels of ethical standards, professionalism and success in the business. Financial advisors from across the brokerage industry applied for consideration, having met a set of minimum requirements. Couzens was chosen based on assets under management, asset growth rate, years of experience, advanced industry credentials, online accessibility, and compliance records. As a Private Wealth Advisor, Matthew Couzens provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and provided in one-on-one relationships with his clients. For more information, please contact Matthew Couzens at 860-430-1919 or visit Matthewcouzens.com. Locations in Tolland, Avon & Southington as well.

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March 2021 North Central News

I highly recommend Touchpoints Rehab and Touchpoints at Home at every level of care.”

The Backyard Chicken Program at Strong Family Farm begins June 23.

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Somers Public Library 2 Vision Boulevard, Somers, CT 06071 Email: jmmiller@biblio.org 860-763-3501 Fax 860-763-1718

Library Hours Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday Closed

www.somerspubliclibrary.org

On Monday, March 1st, the Somers Public Library will welcome the public back by appointment for browsing and check out of materials. For patrons who cannot wear a face covering or who chose not to visit the library at this time, curbside pickup service will continue to be offered. The Somers Public Library will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Operation hours may be changed after reevaluation. All library appointments will have a one hour time limit and there will be a capacity per hour to maintain social distancing capabilities within the building. To make an appointment for computer use or browsing, please call 860-763-3501.

24 North Central News March 2021

• Masks will be required for all people entering the library, per Governor’s executive order and town policy. If you cannot wear a mask, please call us to schedule a curbside pickup instead. • All returns will be accepted in the outside drop-box slots only. Items will continue to be quarantined for at least 48 hours. • Computers will be available by appointment for one hour per day. • Meeting rooms will not be available at this time. CHILDREN’S EVENTS Wonderful Ones (ages birth-24 mos.) Weekly video recordings will be available on Mondays beginning March 29. Board books for this program will be available to check out and a song sheet will be provided. Register on our website to receive story time information and the video links.

TEEN EVENT Tuesday, Mar 9 at 6:30 p.m. – March Family Trivia Night Join us for a night of fun, family, and trivia! We’ll be playing Kahoot! trivia over ZOOM. Instructions will be provided. Questions will be appropriate (and answerable) for both adults and children. Sign up your family / team by calling the library.

Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5 yrs.) on Zoom* Wednesdays (3/31-5/5) at 10:30 a.m. OR Thursdays (4/1-5/6) at 10:30 a.m. Craft materials and a song sheet will be provided each week. Register on our website to receive story time information and the Zoom link.

ADULT EVENTS Mon, Mar 8 – Sat, Mar 20 (while supplies last) Take and Make Adult Craft Kit: Marbleized Bowls Our kit includes directions, two white ceramic bowls, two nail polish colors, and a bamboo skewer for stirring. All you need to provide is a giant bowl of water and your time! To schedule your kit pickup time, please call the Library at 860-763-3501 beginning on Mon, March 1. Kits will be limited to Somers Residents over the age of 18 (limit two per household) until March 15 or supplies run out).

St. Patrick’s Day Take-n-Make Kit (ages 3+) Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a festive rainbow craft. Available through curbside pick-up beginning 3/9 (while supplies last). Call to reserve your kit beginning on 3/2. Children’s room activities beginning March 8. Guess the number of jelly beans in the jar and a spring scavenger hunt.

Wed, Mar 10 at 2:30 p.m. – Virtual Book Club Meeting: The Long Silence Mon, Mar 22 at 7:00 p.m. – Virtual Meeting Novels at Night: The Current Wed, Mar 31 at 2:30 p.m. – Virtual Book Club Meeting: The Dearly Departed All book club choices are available to borrow through curbside pickup or via the Library’s Hoopla database. Please call the Library to register and receive your zoom link. We can’t wait to “SEE” you! Wed, Mar 24 at 6:00 p.m. – AAA Retire ZOOM Community Education Workshop LEARN HOW TO: Protect yourself from retirement’s greatest threats, Increase your Social Security retirement income by up to 76%, Receive Social Security income from ex or deceased spouse’s earnings, Replace Social Security income lost after spouse’s death, and Understand the biggest tax law and fiscal stimulus change in decades. All attendees will receive a FREE personalized Social Security Maximization analysis. To register for this workshop, call us at 800978-7953 or register here: https://us02web. zoom.us/webinar/register/1616140076141/ WN_59bYWnHuSwi6CcZWDo6z1g

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Somers Somers High selects honor-roll students SOMERS — The following students were chosen for the second-quarter honor roll at Somers High School. Grade 12 High honors: Jeffrey Devlin, Jack Gebo, Giovanna Gioscia, Tanner Hammond, Adam Hinds, Keeley Joyal, Morgan Juzba, Treena Pitts, Halle Raina, Hannah Renzoni, Sheridan Speight, Olivia Suter, Garbrielle Tullock, Angela Young, Dominic Zuccalo. Honors: Simon Banas, Jacqueline Beaulieu, Benjamin Bolduc, Emily Brayton, Cecelia Bruel, Julia Catellier, Zachary Delskey, Aidan Devin-Baillargeon, Colin Donovan, Sarah Finnegan, Mckenzie Fitzgerald, Shawn Gentilcore, Jaydon Griger, Alexander Grzelak, Danielle Hoague, Caelyn Hoffman, Ethan Kay, Conner Kocot, Alexander Lippe, Madeline Mancuso, Lindsay Masamery, Alexandra McLellan, Mallory Murdza, Kaycha Perez, Emily Reynolds, Laura Riley, Maggie Settje, Alana Sweat, Shannon Whalen, Khadija Williams.

Grade 10 High honors: Chloe Albano, Owen Argiro, John Bonin, Nicholas Calcasola, Ella Campion, Gabriel D’Amour, Erin Donohue, Gracie Flynn, Tait Gaudet, Madison Gebo, Alexa Gladysz, Ryan Halligan, Kaija Hjelm, April Kelly, Kalvin Long, Meghan Martowska-White, James Maskill, Alexis Maurice, Elena Riggins. Honors: Eric Alaimo, Phillip Alaimo, Brandon Andersen, Evalina Bruel, Benjamin Campion, Shea Cassidy, Laura Catellier, Joshua Colby, Michael Croyle, Raya Davis, Alejandro Diaz, Cole Ferro, Robin Gaskell, Sarah Gill, Caleb Hammond, Abigail Healy, Renee Hoague, James Johnson, Braden Joyal, Madison Juzba, Kiana Kalman, Grace Kowal, Tyler Kradas, Thomas Lesco, Nicholas Mazza, Colby McCormick, Kyle Provencher, Kiara Ramirez-Robles, Jenna Riley, Olivia Riley, Evan Root, Jack Scott, Concetta Shewokis, Sadie Vesco, Hannah White.

Grade 11 High honors: Brianne Boyd, Taylor Byo, John Denehy, Benjamin Fawthrop, Natalie Harvin, Madison Hinkley, Gabriel Kukulka, Anna Majowicz, Grace Majowicz, Douglas Suter, Emily Tardif, John Zapolski.

Grade 9 High honors: Trinity Baj, Grace Chagnon, Kate Gebo, Alessandra Gioscia, Chloe Gowdy, Taylor Illuzzi, Teegan Illuzzi, Dylan Kukulka, Jack Logan, Taylor Mynahan, Abby Neal, Dara Salka, Sara St. Germain, Amanda Trask, Eliana Wood, Lauren Zapolski.

Honors: Luke Arnone, Cooper Barrett, Alexandria Bates, Luke Boudreau, Jade Breton, Kayla Brown, Mollie Burns, Tyler Case, Caroline Colton, Patrick Connors, Sarah Cranna, Caroline Curtis, Austin Delesio, Justin Donohue, Matthew Fleischman, Dana Gall, Grace Gengenbach, Alex Grenier, Samantha Hansen, Mary Herrity, Kevin Huss, Thomas Lafayette, Emily Lawlor, Grace Lessard, Taylor McCornick, Isabella Nolasco, Bianca Ryder, Connor Sparrow, Rachel St. Germain, Isis Teets, Patricia Vivilecchia, Mallory Wohlers, Kaede Wood, Katiya Zawrotny.

Honors: Mei Bissaillon, Mara Butler, Deven Caetano, Lily Carzello, Isabella Caye, Jedric Clark, Alexa Damboragian, Faith Denault, Oliver DeRoma, Grace Dina, Reese Emlen, Cody Ferrero, Olivia Gengenbach, Elaina Gervais, Kate Grandpre’, Elizabeth Grondin, Kristina Haraga, Riley Hareld, Maya Hudroge, Robert Martin, Emma Martinik, Grace McGuinness, Rebecca Munson, Genevieve Neiman, Daisy Parker, Sullivan Quirk, Addison Sarkis, Josephine Smith, Jennali Turner, Trent White, Melea Wolters..

Free Little Library Andrew Hartman, a high school senior from Somers, planned, coordinated, fundraised, and built a Free Little Library as part of his Eagle Scout Service Project. Andrew is a member of Boy Scout Troop 387. The Free Little Library is outside the Somers Senior Center. The project was modeled after the historic Free Public Library located between Kibbe Fuller School and the Somers Senior Center. The Free Little Library provides unrestricted access of reading materials for public use. He collected book donations to get the library stocked. He came together with fellow scouts, scouting families, and his own family to complete the project.

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March 2021 North Central News

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Somers

Rotary Club scholarships The Rotary Club of Somers is offering up to 12 scholarships to high school seniors who reside in Somers. Three of these scholarships have a particular area of focus. The Chipouras scholarship honors a past Somers Rotarian, Peter Chipouras, and is awarded to a student seeking a vocational career. The Bordeaux scholarship is being offered this year to honor 2020-21 Somers Rotary President Cliff Bordeaux, who recently passed away. Finally, one scholarship is being partially funded from a Rotary Foundation District 7890 grant and will be awarded to a student who plans to study in a field covered by Rotary International’s six areas of focus: • Peace and conflict prevention/resolution • Disease prevention and treatment

• Water and sanitation • Maternal and child health • Basic education and literacy • Economic and community development Applications can be obtained from the Somers High School Guidance Department or downloaded from its website: https://hs.somers.k12.ct.us/ counseling_and_support_services. The deadline to submit applications is April 7. Applications are evaluated based upon academic performance, community service, extracurricular activities, sports, leadership, and financial need. Applicants are required to submit an essay explaining what the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” means to them and how it might apply to their future endeavors. Recipients will be recognized at the Somers High School Senior Awards Night and at a Rotary meeting in June, as COVID-19 protocols permit. Over the years, the Somers Rotary Club has awarded scholarships in excess of $225,000. Funding for scholarships is raised through Rotary events, including the Great Escape Road Race.

Come Grow With Us At Keith Isham Landscaping, LLC, we have spent years working with clever, creative people – some come to us with years of experience and others are new to the green industry. We don’t present our potential clients with a resume and expect them to hire us…..we show up and WOW them. We are going to invite you to WOW us! We offer employees competitive pay commensurate with experience and/or education and a benefit package. We are a drug and alcohol free work environment. The applicant must pass a pre-employment drug test.

LANDSCAPE LABORER

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Position Overview: We are looking for a highly motivated, experienced individual with a positive attitude and an eye for detail to oversee Landscaping projects, manage the creation of Landscape features such as flowerbeds, water features, irrigation installs and repair, walkways, patios, walls, tree and shrub installations as well as routine maintenance jobs. This is a handson, dynamic, fast paced environment and requires quick thinking, a team-oriented attitude, and multitasking abilities.

26 North Central News March 2021

As a Foreman, you are responsible for completing jobs on time and to Keith Isham Landscaping LLC’s high quality standards, workmanship and professionalism. Our company offers snow removal during the winter months as well. Education and Experience Requirements: • Experience working with all aspects of landscaping and maintenance • Degree/certification and/or training in horticulture would be a plus • Valid Driver’s License, clean driving record and reliable transportation, DOT Healthcard Forman Specific Skills: • Ability to train his/her crew labor with all precautions related to day to day landscaping activities

Library reopening On March 1, the Somers Public Library began welcoming the public back by appointment for browsing and checkout of materials. For patrons who cannot wear a face covering or who chose not to visit the library at this time, curbside pickup service is continuing to be offered. The library will be open on: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 7 p.m. Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Operation hours may be changed after reevaluation. All library appointments will have a one hour time limit and there will be a capacity per hour to maintain social distancing capabilities within the building. To make an appointment for computer use or browsing, call (860) 763-

3501. Masks will be required for all people entering the library.

Bernie meme comes to life in town Fred Romano, owner of Somersvillage Gifts and Gourmet Baskets, was nicknamed “Papa Bernie” when this photo was posted on the store’s Facebook page last month. Romano’s pose mimics that of Sen. Bernie Sanders at President Joe Biden’s inauguration. The Somers gift shop soon added similar mittens to those Sanders wore, sewn by Trish NolanParkhouse of Monson, Mass., to its inventory. When Romano’s daughter Emily Bull saw the mittens in the store and what her dad was wearing, she took the photo. The store still has some of the mittens in stock and will be getting more.

Job Description: We are looking for a highly motivated, experienced individual with a positive attitude and an eye for detail to help with our Landscaping projects and all aspects of Landscape maintenance in regards to commercial and residential properties. This is a hands-on, dynamic, fast paced environment and requires quick thinking, a team-oriented attitude, and multitasking abilities. As a Landscape Laborer, you are responsible for completing jobs on time and to Keith Isham Landscaping LLC’s high quality standards, workmanship and professionalism. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Must have great customer service skills • Attention to detail, with an eye for identifying plants, shrubs and trees commonly used in this region • Mechanical skills which includes operating equipment such as chain saws, lawnmowers etc. • Heavy lifting is required • Experience safely driving a truck and trailer. • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished written or orally. • Verbal and written communication skills • Time management and organizational skills, including punctuality for on-time attendance

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Curbside corned beef A curbside pick-up Corned Beef Supper is being offered (under new leadership) by the Congregational Church of Somersville, 22 Maple St., from 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, March 13. Dinner will consist of corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, onions, carrots, Irish soda bread, and dessert; cost is $14 each. Meals should be reserved in advance by contacting the Church office at (860) 749-7741 or emailing somcong@aol.com. Requests will be confirmed.

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Somers S. Prestley Blake was a man who ‘never slowed down’ Friendly’s co-founder remembered in area for his philanthropy SOMERS — S. Prestley Blake, who co-founded the Friendly’s restaurant chain with his brother Curtis in 1935, died on Feb. 11 at 106. Blake, a longtime resident of Somers, helped guide Friendly’s from a single shop selling ice cream in Springfield to a restaurant chain that had more than 500 locations in the 1970s. In North Central Connecticut, Blake was remembered for his many philanthropic efforts, with charitable donations made to many groups, ranging from colleges such as Western New England University and Springfield College to hospitals. Blake was a long-time member of the Trinity Health Of New England community. “On behalf of the Johnson Memorial

Somers resident S. Prestley Blake (center, in green shirt with wife Helen on left) donated $10 million towards Johnson Memorial’s Enfield campus in 2019. Hospital family, physicians, colleagues, and their family are integral members of and Board of Directors, we would like the Johnson Memorial community. We to express our sincere condolences to S. express our appreciation of their generPrestley Blake’s family,” said Stu ous contributions to the hospital. He will Rosenberg, president of Johnson be sorely missed in our community, but Memorial Hospital. his memory, wishes, and legacy will “Prestley was an extraordinary father, continue to live on. We all send our husband, friend, leader, and philanthro- heartfelt prayers to the family,” pist, with a great business sense, who Rosenberg said. never slowed down. Mr. & Mrs. Blake Trinity Health Of New England

President and CEOP Reggy Eadie said, “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of S. Prestley Blake. His dedication to philanthropy and supporting his community made a profound impact that will continue for generations to come. “Prestley’s donation to the Saint Francis Foundation, specifically to Johnson Memorial Hospital, remains unmatched. It transformed the medical care that Johnson Memorial was able to offer its local community, and we remain incredibly grateful for Prestley’s vision and unbridled commitment to leaving his neighbors and community in good hands.” In 2019, Blake and his wife, Helen, donated $10 million to establish an ambulatory care center in their name at Johnson Memorial Hospital’s Enfield location. “His loss is one that we all mourn,” Eadie said. “We send our heartfelt condolences to Prestley’s family, friends, and community. We are praying for you.”

MBA choses honor-roll students SOMERS — The following students were selected to the second-quarter honor roll at Mabelle B. Avery Middle School. Grade 8 High honors: Madeline Accorsi, Natalia Accorsi, Leighanna Antonmarchi, Noelle Benedict, Angelina Bollinger, Jack Brayton, Jake Breton, Stephanie Burzynski, Andrew Cardwell, Declan Case, Sydney Cassidy, Jack Chester, Emma Cicciarella, Avery D'Amour, Ava DePeau, Sydney Drinan, Cooper Dwyer, Rylee Ferro, Brendan Grenier, Madeline Guyette, Lyndsey Hale, McKenna Halligan, Alyzabeth Halmers, Ethan Hartman, Bryce Huestis, Yanni Karaja, Krysta Laboda, Aiden Leiphart, Kinsey Loupe, Ashley Lyons, Cody Marks, Chloe Mike, Juliette Mira, Katelyn Provencher, Jocelyn Randall, Thomas Saso, Emma Waters. Honors: Tatiana Arruda, Ashley Birkenshaw, Buba Cham, Emma Chase, Aiden Clarity, Rosabella Grimaldi, Emma Grimes, Allie Hafford, Charlotte Hight, Cowen Joyal, Aubrie Kobjack, Savannah Lemoine, Cooper Leonard, Jack Olearcek, Evan Olearczyk, Fiona Pham, Brennan Pierce, Sydney Rand, Joseph Reardon, Eric Renzoni, Alyssa Reynolds, Christopher Rogers, Sebastian Sawicki, Riley Scavotto, Maggie Sikoski, Nico Skalski, Brooke Stevens, Sophia Thomas.

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March 2021 North Central News

Grade 7 High honors: Roth Butler, Theodore Dandurand, Cole Delskey, Madeleine Dennis, Delaney Drinan, Haylie Fonseca, Theodore Grzelak, Natalie Hoague, Michael Jensen, Riley Maurice, Benjamin Medrek, Lily Meier, Caleigh Molitoris, Ian Nunes, Daniella Percoski, Nathan Poirier, Natalie Raina, Isabella Roberts, Zoe Root, Madeleine Salka, Hailey Schafer, Julia Settevendemie, Maya Skalski, Brant Stoltz. Honors: Harrison Accorsi, William Accorsi, Tyler Beers, Ellianna Brooks, Ethan Caetano, Sadie Connell, Nathan Gauvreau, Drew Hoffman, Kaelyn Huss, Elizabeth Johnson, Ella Kahn, William McCarthy, Michael Mendoza-Cruz, Madison Nowakowski, Leo Nunes, Evan Poulin, Declan Sutter, Molly Tabb.

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Stafford

Board votes to close Staffordville School By Laura B. Hayden STAFFORD — The first day of the 2021-2022 school year won’t be the same in town this year, with the closing of Staffordville School. Superintendent Steven Moccio first raised the possibility of closing the K-1st grade school at a January Board of Education meeting, saying the closure would save $500,000 and allow for a more consistent distribution of early school-age students housed in Stafford schools. Under the school-closure plan, which was accepted in February in a 6-1 vote, pre-K and kindergarten students from Staffordville School will attend West Stafford School. West Stafford School will no longer include first grade. Instead, those first-graders will attend Stafford Elementary School, which currently serves secondgraders through fifth-graders. Moccio told the Jouranl Inquirer the move would create more “consistency and coherence” by putting all of Stafford’s youngest students of the same grade level in the same building: kindergarteners at West Stafford School and first-graders at Stafford Elementary School. The Board of Education overwhelmingly approved

The Board of Education overwhelmingly approved the change in a 6-1 vote as part of its adoption of a $28.5 million budget, an approximate $275,000 increase (or .97 %) over the 2020-21 school budget. the change in a 6-1 vote as part of its adoption of a $28.5 million budget, an approximate $275,000 increase (or .97 %) over the 2020-21 school budget. Although the Staffordville school will close, the adopted 2021-22 school budget will result in no decline in the number of teachers or programs. Board member George Melnick cast the sole opposing vote. Melnick conceded “the temperature of the whole town was mostly for the closure,” but that his concern from the beginning was “for the long term.

“I like the idea of community schools and was concerned over another vacant building,” Melnick said. He did not know of any specific plan to use Staffordville School for any new purpose. Even as the lone dissenter, Melnic added, “We have a very collaborative board here in Stafford. What we decide is in the best interest of the kids.” The budget accepted by the Board of Education will now go to the Stafford Board of Finance, which can approve it or send it back to the Board of Education for revisions. In the past, once approved by the Finance Board, the budget would traditionally move to being finally adopted via referendum, but with the pandemic, state policy last year gave local Boards of Finance the authority to issue final approval.

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March 2021 North Central News

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Stafford High school students named to honor roll STAFFORD — The following students were named to the Stafford High School honor roll for the second quarter: HIGH HONORS Seniors: Jacob Cabrera, David Christofferson, Sydney Dolbier, Rose Fountain, Dominick Gray, Basha Halloran, Morgan Hanks, Spencer Hill, David Hirsch, Brooke Hubbard, Jenna Ledbetter, Julie Lidwin, Clara Lybarger, Hannah Miller, Allison Misenheimer, Krista Mitchell, Mackenzie Murdock, Luke Olsen, Emily Padegimas, Michaela Pechie, Laurel Perez, RoseAnna Ravetto, Tehya Raymond, Amber Reiss, Ryan Riley, Katelynn Shayler, Phoenix Sheerin, Jiovanny Solivan, Audrey Sprague, Kenneth VanDyk, Alison Verney, A Stanley Wasilewski, Ryan Wilson, Callie Worthington, Sierra Wyse, Emma Yarrows, Lily Zopelis. Juniors: Zoila Arteaga, Logan Briggs, Leah Davis, Emma Dean, Genevieve Drouin, Samuel Fagerquist, Elizabeth Forrest, Crystal Gagner,

Kalye Gutierrez, Sonney Inthisorn, Samantha King, Jesse Maloney, Nicoles Marrero Medina, Robert Olden, Madison Prentiss, Kara Puglisi, Sabrina Sedor, Caitlyn Thayer, Megan Worthington. Sophomores: William Campbell, Raina Caro, Colin Egan, Kaitlyn Gaudet, Isabella Irwin, Kristine Johnson, Abby Kearns, Drew Ledbetter, James Mayo, Andrea Moulton, Maren Pekrul, Evan Simlick, Joshua Tuller, Hayden Verney, Mikayla Viger, Meadow Williams, Gerik Wojteczko. Freshmen: Benjamin Agostinucci, Calvin Bareiss, Gavin Beauchamp, Makenna DeNunzio, Braelyn Fitzgerald, Kaelie Gladysz, Nathaniel Grady, Cole Hasel, Kiana Kimball, Riley Kology, Kristina Lanzieri, Andrew Levesque, Rebecca Minaya, Elizabeth Murray, Michael Myron, Jack Poitras, Angus Sprague, Gavin Stevens, Ava Strickland, Camryn Sullivan, Natalia Talamini, Angelo

Vella, Demetri Vella, Zoey Zawodniak. HONORS Seniors: Olivia Frassinelli, Jazmyn Hooper, Madison Sladek. Juniors: Tyler Barrette, Ryan Duffy, Ashley Hornung, Kloey Kun, Jillian Mangold, Abdul Qureshi, Attley Stevens. Sophomores: Dylan Balboni, Lindsay Briggs, Isabella Brodeur, Ashley Camara, Kacie Consolini, William Depault, Carolyn Emhoff, Ryan Gilluly, Caleb Ives, Jhatna Mata, Alexa Morel, Devon Morro, Jaelyn Moulton, Hayley Syphers, Ashley Toney, Derek Wyse. Freshmen: Jolina Canillas, Mackenzie Delano, Isabelle Fernandez, Sofia Frassinelli, Abigail Julian, Jake Lidwin, Logan Lovley, Carl Mangold, Wesley Murdock, Lana Norris, Gianna Pisciotta, Gavin Strout, Thomas Tantillo, Annie Vaiciulis, Makenzie Warren.

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Scholarship plans Strides for Scholars UNION — The Union School Association Scholarship Foundation will be holding its annual Strides for Scholars 5K Run/Walk to benefit the scholarship fund. The event is scheduled for April 18. Registration/packet pick up will begin at 7 a.m. at Union Elementary School, 18 Kinney Hollow Road, Union, with an 8:30 a.m. race start in Bigelow Hollow State Park, 298 Bigelow Hollow Road (Rt. 171). Cost for adults is $25. T-shirt prizes are free for the first 100 registered. Awards will be given for male and female winners according to various age groups. Go to https://runsignup. com/Race/CT/Union/StridesForSc holars for more information and to pre-register.

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Regional

Welcome to the Neighborhood At left, U.S. Rep. Joseph D. Courtney addresses the gathering at the opening of the new mass COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the Enfield Annex on March 1. Also pictured is Stuart Rosenberg, MBA, President of Johnson Memorial Hospital. See story, page 32. Above, Mario’s Pizzeria & Risorante owners Mario Ferrentino and Nikko Plescia are slated to open their eatery atSouthfield Corners on South Street March 16. Mario’s photo by Joshua Esan

March 2021 North Central News

MARCHncn21-32.qxp_NCN new template 3/2/21 8:47 PM Page 32

Regional

Trinity Health expands network of vaccine clinics Johnson Memorial partners with Enfield to open vaccination site STAFFORD — Johnson Memorial Hospital, a member of Trinity Health Of New England, has announced a joint venture with the town of Enfield to launch a COVID-19 mass vaccination clinic, allowing the hospital to significantly increase the daily number of doses it can provide. The new mass vaccination clinic began with a soft roll out at the Enfield Annex, 124 North Maple Street, Enfield. Staffed and overseen by Johnson Memorial Hospital personnel, the mass vaccination clinic in Enfield will have the capacity to vaccinate upwards of 640 individuals per day, pending vaccine availability. The new clinic will honor all vaccine appointments scheduled at Johnson Memorial Hospital, as the hospitalbased clinic closed on Feb. 26, to allow staff to transition to the new site. When all previously scheduled vaccine appointments have been honored, eligible Connecticut residents will be able to book appointments at the Enfield Annex clinic for the COVID-19 vaccine. “As part of our mission and core values, we pride ourselves on our ability to

provide equitable care for all community members,” said Reggy Eadie, president and CEO of Trinity Health Of New England. “We, at Trinity Health Of New England, have a responsibility bring the COVID-19 vaccine into local neighborhoods to ensure easy access to the vaccine and are doing so through our expanded network of vaccine clinics. We are thrilled to work collaboratively with the Town of Enfield on this effort.” Stuart Rosenberg, president of Johnson Memorial Hospital, said, “The opening of the COVID-19 mass vaccination clinic at the Enfield Annex signals another step forward in Johnson Memorial Hospital’s commitment to serve as a transforming, healing presence, affording us the opportunity to provide this vital service to even more members of the local community. We are grateful to our Johnson colleagues who worked tirelessly to make our hospital-based vaccine clinic so successful and we are confident that their clinical expertise and caring attitude will benefit vaccine recipients at the new Enfield Annex clinic.” Rosenberg also noted that the project inspired a spirit of teamwork among stakeholders. “We are pleased to work collaboratively with Christopher Bromson, Enfield town manager, and the town of Enfield, to bring COVID-19 vaccina-

tion to more of our neighbors. We also want to recognize Rep. Tom Arnone, Rep. Carol Hall and the entire delegation for their advocacy in support of this clinic,” he said. Bromson also praised the arrangemnt. “We would like to extend our appreciation to Johnson Memorial Hospital, Trinity Health Of New England, and Governor Lamont for making this clinic possible. Thanks to the hard work of many Enfield employees, we will be able to provide this important vaccine to our town and surrounding communities,” Bromson said. Enfield Mayor Mike Ludwick said, TWe are excited to be able to partner with Trinity Health Of New England to provide a service that people are demanding in an environment that not only benefits Enfield but also allows surrounding communities to have easy access to a vaccine.” The clinic will follow state guidelines for vaccine prioritization and eligibility.

For more information on vaccine eligibility and how to register refer to the Trinity Health Of New England vaccine webpage. The Enfield Annex vaccine clinic will continue to align with the state’s phased roll out of vaccine distribution in the coming weeks and months. The clinic is not able to take walkins. Individuals with appointments are asked to arrive at the clinic alone if possible. For those who require assistance, one companion per patient is permitted. The Enfield Annex COVID-19 mass vaccination clinic will operate Monday through Friday. The clinic will be open each Monday from 12:45 until 3:15 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

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Acts of Kindness

More students celebrated for their good works ENFIELD — Each day there are students making a difference in the community — through silent acts of kindness to community-wide events. What began as a small thought for the Miller Family of Miller Farms Family Markets evolved into an anticipated and honorable award for recipients across the Four-Town Region. Miller Farms has proudly partnered with the North Central Chamber of Commerce and other area businesses to bring the North Central Act of Kindness Award to the region’s students. The North Central Act of Kindness (NCAOK) Award is an adaption of a program that originated in 2014 as an anti-bullying campaign in collaboration with the Enfield School System and evolved into an award ceremony commemorating students in Enfield, Somers, and Suffield. The award is designed to honor students who display redeeming qualities like civic awareness, commitment, kindness, and care toward others. The NCAOK Award recognizes leadership and commitment rather than scholastics or athletics. Each student honored is given a personalized award plaque for their good deeds, a donation made in their name to a charitable organization of their choice, and recognition in front of their peers and parents during a monthly gathering to celebrate. School administrators, teachers, and community

members nominate candidates who display the theme of “kindness” and the North Central Chamber of Commerce shares their stories through the news, social media, in their office space at the Enfield Square Mall, and in person by meeting with students and peers in a socially distanced environment. To encourage kindness in the student population, their photos and stories also hang in their school hallways for other passing students to admire. The most recent students nominated were Diondre Jackson, Sophie Gleeson, Sara Brown, and Sydney Bechard of Enfield High School, Serena Robidoux of Somers High School, Nicholas Diana of Avery Middle School, and Jenna Devin and Cassandra Hryniewicz of Suffield High School. Each student shares a common thread — making their school and community a better place through unnoticed daily acts of kindness and compassion. Jackson was nominated for his kindness displayed in Earth Science and ability to bring his classmates together, even in a remote setting. Gleeson was chosen because of her displays of leadership and kindly making sure that her classmates stay on task. Brown has spent the last four years actively involved in Best Buddies and has always displayed dedication and patience to her fellow peers. Bechard received the award for always assisting struggling students during hybrid learning.

From Somers, Robidoux accepted the award for her uplifting attitude toward teachers by acknowledging their efforts through delivery of homemade baked goods and thank-you cards to staff. Waters was awarded for treating everyone equally and respectfully and her constant display of encouragement. Sixth-grader Hevey was nominated for being a conscientious student and a role model to her school and community. From Suffield, Diana was given the award for always having a positive attitude and putting others before himself. Devin and Hryniewicz were nominated for a civics project that helps the elderly shop for their groceries. The program they created continues to go above and beyond the scope of their school project and has received donations from local area businesses to help sustain and grow their efforts. This award is not possible without the support of Platinum sponsors Rich’s Oil Service, Home Helpers of Enfield, and Miller Farms Family Markets and Bronze sponsors Costco and State Farm. The program is also made possible by support from Asnuntuck Community College, Keating Real Estate, and Enfield Community Credit Union. To get involved with the program, contact the North Central CT Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about the efforts of these students and the charities they chose, visit the North Central CT Chamber of Commerce or MorningBird Media Facebook Page.

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Suffield Local animal control officer is state’s top dog SUFFIELD — The town of Suffield and Suffield Police Department have announce that Animal Control Officer Ryan Selig was recently named Connecticut ACO of the Year. The honor comes on the heels of a multipronged initiative to improve the ACO program beginning with Selig’s hire in 2017. Suffield First Selectwoman Melissa M. Mack and Police Chief Richard Brown spearheaded the effort, in collaboration with East Granby First Selectman Jim Hayden. Selig also serves as East Granby’s ACO as a component of the initiative that seeks to reduce costs through shared services with neighboring towns. Following the announcement Mack said, “We knew Officer Selig’s professionalism, dedication, and expertise would serve both towns well and bring the ACO program to the next level. He was also instrumental in assisting with the Town’s transition from its aged dog pound to a state-of-the-art facility leased through River Valley Animal Center. Suffield and East Granby are both lucky to have him.” The Connecticut Municipal ACO Association (www.ctaco.org) makes th selection based on an open nomination process in which Selig received sev-

Plans for 350th Anniversary Parade marching forward

Connecticut Animal Care and Control has selected Suffield Animal Control Officer Ryan Selig as the 2020 Animal Control Officer of the Year. eral submissions, including from his peers. Selig’s tenure includes representing Suffield on a number of high profile cases related to animal cruelty and a human fatality from a canine attack. Selig is perhaps best known for saving Brooks, an abandoned and abused pup, that became infamous on social media. A wildlife advocate, Selig prioritizes public education while responding to numerous bear sightings. “Suffield is a town that cares deeply about its animals, natural amenities, and public safety,” said Brown, “ACO Selig’s work is truly appreciated and valued by the community.”

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RETIRE SMART While many Americans have spent years planning for their retirements, a great many of them have made a basic discovery once they reach that plateau. Namely, that there are some issues that simple math and time will not necessarily resolve. If you are near retirement or have retired, call Kent Retirement Planning Services. Harry Kent has been working with seniors for 29 years. He assists investors over age 60 to preserve their capital, increase their income and more pro昀tably organize their investments.

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