August 2007 North Central News

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August 2007

Fr ee www.thenorthcentralnews.com

Hundreds of Readers Select Best of North Central CT We asked and you answered by the hundreds. And what follows are the top 30 businesses in North Central Connecticut in each of their respective fields.

There was nothing hi-tech about it. Just our capable staff, sorting through the ballots and tallying up the totals with that “four sticks then a slash” system we all learned in grade school.

But when all is counted, we do believe that all of the winners - as well as those who took the time to fill out ballots should be proud. After all, feedback from critics and peers is always valuable, but a ringing endorsement like this from customers and community members is a true sign a business has reached the highest level of success.

So again, congrats to all the winners and all those who voted to make them winners. While we’re in the congratulating mood, congrats as well to Diane Garnger of Ellington and Alexandria Johnson of Somersville, the former of which won a pair of Six Flags Lake George tickets and the latter a pair to Stafford Motor Speedway, just for taking the time to send their ballots in.

Without further ado, here’s the best of the best in North Central Connecticut this year, as determined by you!

AUTOMOTIVE BEST AUTO REPAIR PLACE People’s Auto 23 Field Rd., Somers (860) 763-0711 Jim Hinkle, who, along with owners Dave and Frank Doyker, has been with People’s Auto for 28 years, didn’t hesitate when asked why People’s was voted the best place to get your car serviced. “We try to follow the golden rule here,” Hinkle said. “We treat people the way we would like to be treated if we were on the other

In This Issue • PEOPLE: Theatre founder finds new outlet on the web ......................p.7 • ELLINGTON: High school students named to honor roll .......................p.8 • ELLINGTON: Next step taken for the purchase of more open space ............p.9 • SOMERS: Sewage treatment center costs more than double ..................p.12 • SOMERS: Town ranked 53rd best place to live in USA .................p.13 • SOMERS: Local college student earns

Dave Doyker of People’s Auto in Somers, which was voted Best Auto Repair Place by North Central News readers. The shop also won the award in 2005.

Photo by Stacey Lyn McDonald side of the desk.” People’s services all makes and models, and was also the winner in this category in 2005. Their combination of honesty, integrity, and service is obviously a winning one.

BEST NEW CAR DEALERSHIP Bolles Motors Rte. 190, Stafford www.bollesdodge.com (860) 684-8888

prestigious scholarship .................p.20 • STAFFORD: Proposal made for over55 housing to selectmen...............p.23 • STAFFORD: High school students named to honor roll ..................p.24 • FIELDER’S CHOICE: Sometimes the nice girls finish first ................p.37

*NEXT ISSUE Editorial/Advertising Deadline: Aug. 24 (860) 698-9328

Rte. 83, Ellington (860) 875-2595 • www.bollesmotors.com With their newest showroom in Stafford, Bolles Motors adds to its reputation as the best place around to buy a new car. There’s no better place to find the Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep just right for you.

Long recognized for their emphasis on customer service before and after the sale, Bolles has been a family operated business since 1976. “We’re very pleased to have won this award for three years in a row,” said Brian Bolles. “I think it reflects the fact that we try to consistently deliver a good buying experience, and people are telling their friends about us.”

Generous portions at reasonable prices bring in the breakfast (and lunch, and dinner) crowd at the Plaza Restaurant. The warm, home-like atmosphere, with the friendliest wait staff around, makes you want to linger over that hot cup of coffee

BEST OF/page 3

BEST USED CAR DEALERSHIP Somersville Auto Sales 15 Field Rd., Somers (860) 749-2711 “We don’t have the biggest volume, but we do have the best prices and a friendly staff,” said co-owner Jim Toomey of Somersville Auto Sales. Readers agree.

DINING BEST BREAKFAST Plaza Restaurant 48 South Rd., Somers (860) 749-0666

Jessica Liscomb, co-owner of A Family Heirloom in Rockville, winner in the Best Antique Shop category.

Photo by Stacey Lyn McDonald

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P.O. Box 2089 P.O. Box 929 New London, CT 06320 Somers, CT 06071 TEL 860-444-7704 TEL 860-851-9644 FAX 860-444-7706 FAX 860-851-9647 www.CCRSales.com

A Division of Connecticut Commercial Realty

Victoria Clark, Broker

Connecticut Commercial Realty and Select Homes says Thank You to the readers for making us # 1!

Our staff is here to serve you!

Open House 8-12-07

Open House 8-12-07

Michael DeVries

Christy Ryan

Antigoni Montero

Karrie Ann Connor-Clark

Cheryl L Kossick

Ray Clark

Courtney Ennis

FOR SALE: WEST STAFFORD: +/– 2300 sf Quality built 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath colonial set on +/- 2 acre wooded lot on the Stafford/Somers line. Many custom features and upgrades to include a floor to ceiling fieldstone fplc, cherry kit, master bath, bonus room and in-ground pool. $384,900.00 Dir: RT 190 to Old Spfld Rd to 72 Gilbert.Open 12-2pm.

FOR SALE: STAFFORD: This +/– 1900 s/f colonial is full of character. 3bedrooms, crown molding and new cabinets and counters in the eat-in kitchen. Other updates include a new roof, windows, siding, and fresh paint. Fenced-in backyard garden retreat. Home Warranty included $166,900.00

Maureen Lowe

Sheila Vasseur

FOR SALE: SOMERS: +/– 2800 sf custom built Colonial is set on 1.6 acres with a view. 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a finished LL adds almost 600 sf. A big country kitchen with an open floor plan, big bright windows and so much more! $429,000.00 Dir: Route 190 to Battle to Mountain to 38 Broadway, Open 12-2pm

FOR SALE: ENFIELD: +/– 1400 sf cape style home. 3 bedrooms, including a 1st floor bedroom, and 1st floor laundry location. Big kitchen with Kloter Farms center island and pellet stove. Many new updates include new windows, flooring and doors. Look no further! $204,900.00

Kim Quinn

LAND FOR SALE: SOMERS: 6.8 acres with a 3500 sf building in northern Somers surrounded by mountain views. $259,000.00

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE: Vernon +/– 890 s/f commercial building with many updated mechanicals. Possible uses include package store, ice cream shop, take out, general store. Call for details. $109,900 FOR SALE: East Windsor +/– 38 acres, currently zoned industrial, close to I-91 with $690,000 high traffic count. $609,000 FOR LEASE: Somers +/– 750 s/f in Playhouse Plaza on Main Street, ideal for retail, professional, small restaurant. $800/month gross

Commercial and Residential Real Estate Services SALES

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LEASING

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MANAGEMENT

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APPRAISAL

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AUCTION

Harry Kent Voted #1 Financial Advisor By North Central News Readers Poll, 8/1/2007 Kent Retirement Planning Services can help you develop a strategy to achieve an optimal level of income throughout retirement. As an independent service, we focus on your needs and tailor them without the need to hit quotas and doing whatʼs best for a “group plan”. Every step of the way is carefully planned, discussed, and executed with one person in mind. That one person is you!

How you will benefit • Generate a regular stream of income Harry Kent,

Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative

Weʼll help you thrive

• Enjoy flexible income that fits your changing lifestyle • Continually evaluate your investment allocation to assess the opportunity for adjustments • Prepare yourself for the possible reduction or loss of Social Security or your pension

As you approach retirement, you should be filled with excitement and confidence. If youʼre experiencing anxiety or doubt, chances are you will benefit from talking to a Kent Retirement Planning Services representative. We will help you detail your expenses, create a new budget, examine your investments and make choices about how youʼll take income in retirement.

Call today 860.749.6961 or 800.948.1936 or Explore & email us from our very informative website: www.kentretirementplanning.com Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered by representatives of Tower Square Securities, Inc., a securities broker/dealer (member NASD & SIPC) and a Registered Investment Adviser. Kent Retirement Planning Services LLC is a separate entity from Tower Square Securities, Inc. and is not a securities broker/dealer or Registered Investment Adviser. Branch Office: 2 Robert St., Somers, CT 06071

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Best Of North Central Publishing, LLC dba

The North Central News P.O. Box 427 Somers, CT 06071 PHONE: 860.698.9328 FAX: 860.698.9373 E-MAIL: NorthCentralNews@aol.com WEBSITE: www.thenorthcentralnews.com

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Gary Carra INTERNS Nick Carra Connie Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Keith Griffin Linda Tishler-Levinson Margo Van Kuren Deborah Stauffer PHOTOGRAPHER David Butler II ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Brian Carra Joan Hornbuckle CIRCULATION

Georgia Michalec Publisher’s Policy: The information presented in the North Central News is presented for your consideration and does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher or its advertisers. All information is checked for accuracy but cannot be guaranteed. Liability for errors in advertising is limited to rerun of the ad. Errors in advertising should be brought to the attention of the publisher, in writing, within seven days of publication for appropriate credit.

Best of North Central CT Selected for 2007 (continued from page 1) for just a few minutes more. Freshlybaked muffins and other goodies make leaving even harder.

BEST DINNER Hazard Grille 39 Hazard Ave., Enfield (860) 239-0004 www.hazardgrille.com In addition to fine dining featuring classic East Coast grill food, the Hazard Grille boasts an extensive wine list. Signature dishes include shrimp fusilli, filet mignon, and Statler chicken with a spinach, bacon, and goat cheese stuffing. For a casual-toupscale lunch or dinner, it’s hard to beat the Hazard Grille.

BEST ICE CREAM Dzen Garden Market 187 Windsorville Rd., Ellington (860) 871-8183 103 Main St., Somers (860) 749-4230 The opening of Dzen’s ice cream window is a sure sign that spring is really here.

With 24 flavors of soft serve, fresh fruit toppings in season, and great sundaes and shakes, it’s no wonder that Dzen’s has been the winner in this category year after year. There’s no better way to spend a summer evening than taking the family (or just yourself!) out for a cool treat from Dzen’s.

BEST LUNCH Italian Villa 15 South Rd., Somers (860) 763-1342 Featuring lunch specials every day, and $5.95 lasagna all day on Mondays and Wednesdays, last year’s winner for best dinner was chosen this year as the best place to have lunch. “I’d have to say it’s the real feeling of hospitality we have here,” said Nathan, the Villa’s cook. The Villa has just been completely renovated.

“Of course, the food and service are great too,” he added. Obviously, our readers agree.

BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT Somers Inn 585 Main St., Somers (860)749-2256 www.somersinn.com This is the third straight year our readers have voted the Somers Inn the area’s best overall restaurant. In classic yet casual style, the Inn serves lunch on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and dinner from Wednesday through Sunday.

Owner Peter Boggio credits the use of only the freshest ingredients and excellent service by the wait staff as two of the biggest reasons for their success. But, he adds, “we also don’t skimp on the portion size.” Our readers know a fine restaurant, so they keep going back to the Somers Inn.

Frankie Vono, owner of Frankie’s Firehouse Restaurant in Somers, readies one of his award winning pizzas for delivery.

Photo by Stacey Lyn McDonald

BEST PIZZA Frankie’s Firehouse Restaurant 112 Main St., Somers (860) 749-1230 Frankie’s comes in with the area’s best pizza for the second year in a row. Now serving beer and wine, good food at reasonable prices is the hallmark of Frankie’s.

Owner Frank Vono says the secret to their great pizza is “an old family recipe” that’s

been used for generations. Check out the other Italian specialties, too.

ENTERTAINMENT BEST CRUISE NIGHT Rich’s Drive In 74 South Road, Somers (860) 749-3917 Nostalgia reigns in the 50’s themed

BEST OF/page 4

Corner of Rt. 190 & 83, 7 miles East of the Enfield Square Mall on Rt. 190

Thank You to Our Patrons for voting The Somers Inn the Best Overall Restaurant in the 2007 North Central News Readers Poll for the Third Year in a Row!

August 2007 North Central News

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Best Of Readers’ Ballots Decide Best of North Central for 2007 (continued from page 1) diner serving Somers for 31 years. Yet Rich’s offers more then jukeboxes and classic American food. Each Thursday, a cruise night consisting of approximately 50 cars turns a modern town into a scene from Grease. Owner Carter Colby is flattered at surpassing other cruise nights in readers votes, but understands their enthusiasm. In what Colby calls a “fun night for the family,” attendees partake in raffles, receive prizes, and are awarded trophies.

“My cruise night is a smaller event due to parking, but the atmosphere at my cruise night is second to none because it has a great family feel to it,” Colby says. He explains that at larger cruise night events “nobody talks to anybody because it’s just too big.” A 50/50 mix of regulars and newcomers couples familiarity with a consistent mix of interesting people. While the size of its hotrods’ engines may matter, the size of the cruise night does not as Colby takes customers on a weekly trip to the decade that remains deeply cherished.

BEST DRIVING RANGE Ellington Golf Center 123 West Road, Ellington (860) 872-9574

Cheers from Joanna’s Café in Somers, ‘Best Happy Hour’ winner two years straight.

After a long day of work, the residents of Ellington hone their skills on the Ellington Golf Center Driving range. With courteous employees and affordable prices, the quality driving range has been able to turn bogeys to birdies for both novices and experienced golf enthusiasts.

In addition, an adjacent clubhouse offers a pro shop and a restaurant featuring food and beverages for those looking for further relaxation or a decrease in frustration. A putting green and chipping practice area

Thank You You North Thank North Central Central News News Readers Gold’s Gym Gym the the ReadersFor for Voting Gold's Best Gym Gym for for the the Second Third Year Best Yearin in aa row! row!

GOLD’S GYM

®

also serve to improve a golfer’s game. The expertise of resident pro Jeff Wadsworth and course manager Steve Cosman ensure that at whatever skill level, golfers are provided with an environment to strive for that ever elusive hole in one.

BEST GOLF COURSE Cedar Knob Billings Rd, Somers (860) 749-3550 Residents of Somers and the surround-

Photo by Stacey Lyn McDonald

ing area have traversed the meticulously mowed fairway of Cedar Knob since 1963, battling the hazards of the par 72 championship course. Head pro Jeff Swanson revels in the progress Cedar Knob has made over the years, establishing itself as a respectable course. “I’ve been here 17 years and this is the best condition I’ve seen the golf course in,” Swanson said.

BEST OF/page 5

With heartfelt appreciation, we thank you the reader for this most honorable recognition...

Debbie Farnham Professional Florist

Colonial Flower Shoppe 611 Main Street, Somers, CT (860) 763-0082

Enfield 585 Hazard Avenue, Scitico Plaza • 860-763-1909

www.colonialflowershoppe.com

ThanksFOR For VOTING Voting Us One USNumber NUMBER ONE THANKS IN 2007!

A ROW! 3 YEARS Again In General Maintenance, Fuel Injection, Standard & Automatic Transmissions, Diesel, Electrical, Alignment, Used Cars

PEOPLE’S AUTO AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR Membership $19.95

Tanning $10.00

paid on a monthly basis.

paid on a monthly basis.

E.F.T. Membership only.

With paid membership only

Bloomfield 107 Old Windsor Rd. • 860-286-9801 East Hartford 1064 Main St. • 860-291-8484 Enfield 640 Enfield St. • 860-253-9521 • OPEN 24 HRS Chicopee 1501 Memorial Dr. • 413-533-6167 West Springfield 1452 Memorial Ave. • 413-746-2677 • OPEN 24 HRS

4 North Central News August 2007

(Foreign Car Specialists) ASE CERTIFIED

23 Field Road Somers, CT 06071

Towing!

860-763-0711 Dave Doyker, Frank Doyker, Jim Hinkle

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Best Of Readers’ Ballots Decide Best of North Central for 2007 (continued from page 4) “It’s beautiful.” Swanson describes the course’s restaurant and pro shop as welcoming. Experienced pros and quality merchandise are available each day. On any given day, 200 players tee up to play man’s most individual game, engaging in a battle with themselves. What better arena for such a battle then rolling fairways and tranquil greens of North Central Connecticut’s greatest course.

BEST HAPPY HOUR Joanna’s Café 145 Main St., Somers (860) 763-5060 Joanna’s wins the prize for best happy hour for the second straight year. The welcoming ambience and friendly staff make this a favorite place to stop in after work or to watch a game. Great snacks and reasonable drink prices have people coming back to Joanna’s year after year.

HEALTH & FITNESS BEST DENTIST Dr. Louis Nero 646 Main St., Somers (860) 749-9911 Whoever says they hate going to the dentist hasn’t been a patient of Dr. Nero.

A valedictorian of his class and graduate of Yale, Dr. Nero has improved Somers’ smiles since 1968. After graduating dental school at Tufts and practicing for some time in Germany, Nero finally landed in the quiet town of Somers. Nero brings along with his experience a genuine concern for all patients, saying “we really care about our people,” and citing a no doublebooking priority and referencing to specialists as examples of the practice’s prioritization of patient satisfaction. Yet at the end of the day, Nero’s humility puts those in his chair first, as he is more concerned with the plaque on their teeth then the plaques on his wall.

BEST DOCTOR Dr. Timothy Silvis 24 Battle St., Somers (860) 763-4024 What makes a doctor special in today’s fast-paced, impersonal world? “He takes the time to really listen to you,” says one of Dr. Silvis’s many satisfied patients. That, plus a warm and friendly office team, makes going to the doctor a lot less—well, painful. Few doctors come as highly recommended as Dr. Silvis.

BEST GYM Gold’s Gym 40 Enfield St., Enfield (860) 253-9521

Now Serving Beer and Wine

585 Hazard Avenue #14 (860) 763-3917 www.goldsgym.com The Gold’s Gyms located on Route 5 and at Scitico Plaza have been offering members an affordable and effective workout for years and have been voted best gym three years in a row. An experienced training staff and courteous employees add a personal atmosphere to the North Central Connecticut’s gym culture. Offering classes in yoga, pilates, kickboxing, and much more, everyone from the avid exerciser to the intimidated beginner is accommodated.

BEST OPTOMETRIST Dr. Christopher Agro Enfield Eyecare Associates 149 Hazard Avenue Enfield (860) 749-0757 Even those without 20/20 vision see clearly that Dr. Agro of Enfield Eyecare Associates is anything but blind to their needs. “The people that come to this office will feel as if it’s the best exam that they’ve ever had before,” Agro guarantees.

Agro prides himself on the practices thorough and accommodating explanations and overall positive demeanor. Practicing with two other partners, Agro feels honored to work in an office that has served its patients for 40 years.

Personally practicing for 14 years, Agro values patient interaction as the most rewarding part of his job. Offering the highest quality in optical care, Agro’s enduring practice seems to have no end in sight.

27 Buckley Highway Route 190, Stafford Springs • (860) 684-5868 If a dog is man’s best friend, then no doubt readers know Dr. Mordasky is an animal’s best friend. Since 1981, Dr. Mordasky’s caring and experience have gone a long way in treating animals to the standards of numerous Connecticut pet owners.

Living on a farm for some time, Dr. Mordasky incorporated his knowledge of animals to his own practice that has expanded from one room to literally the entire house, exposing a selfless concern for everything from the traditional dog and cat, to the unorthodox pig and exotic snakes. A veterinarian with diverse specialties, Dr. Mordasky prides himself on the general nature of his work. Whatever the creature, Dr. Mordasky’s ethic will send most home with tails wagging.

PERSONAL SERVICES Best Bank Rockville Bank (various locations) (860) 291-3600 www.rockvillebank.com With locations throughout Connecticut, Rockville Bank’s famous emphasis on customer service makes it our readers’ favorite for the third straight year. Said bank President Bill McGurk, “ Rockville Bank is delighted to have been selected as the best bank in the area for the 3rd straight year. It confirms that your readers truly believe we are Connecticut’s best community bank. We care about our customers, and we care about our communities.” And it shows.

BEST VETERINARIAN Dr. David Mordasky

BEST OF/page 6

BEST OPTOMETRIST Dr. Christopher L. Agro

112 Main St., (Rte 190) Thank You to the Somers, CT 860-749-1230 Readers for Voting Frankie’s Firehouse Thank You to the BEST for PIZZA Readers Voting A Second Frankies Firehouse Consecutive Year!

Best Pizza

I would like to sincerely thank the readers of the North Central News Readers Poll for voting me "Best Optometrist" for the 2nd consecutive year.

If you have not had an opportunity to come to our office, please call for an appointment and see why the readers think we are the best!

Enfield Eyecare Associates 149 Hazard Avenue Enfield, CT 06082

(860) 749-0757 Dr. Ronald M. Tishler Dr. Christopher L. Agro Dr. Jeffrey M. Doot August 2007 North Central News

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Best Of Readers’ Ballots Decide Best of North Central for 2007 (continued from page 5) BEST FINANCIAL PLANNER Harry Kent, Kent Retirement Planning Services, LLC 2 Robert St., Somers (860) 749-6961 With more than 20 years of experience as a financial planner specializing in retirement planning, Harry Kent is an expert in the field. “I’m good at ensuring that people don’t outlive their assets,” Kent said.

“My returns beat the S&P by 10 points or better.” In fact, he guarantees a 6 percent minimum return with contractual obligations. “And I love doing it,” Kent added.

BEST HAIR SALON The Village Boutique, Stafford 191 West Stafford Road Unit 461 B, Stafford Springs (860) 684-4423 For 10 years owner Debbie Rose has clipped and snipped a name for herself in the town of Stafford. The salon harbors numerous regular customers but also welcomes first time follicles with a guarantee of satisfaction. Rose guarantees that “we are able to cater to all of each client’s needs.” Rose prides herself on the salon’s quaintness and views it as an ideal environment to “be one on one with each client.” It seems as if Rose’s outlook has paid off, as her customers embrace her salon with their praise.

BEST LANDSCAPING SERVICE Frank’s Landscape Construction, Somers (860) 749-2100 For the third straight year, our readers have recognized Frank’s as the area’s best landscape service.

Specializing in hydroseeding, landscape design, patios and walls, small excavation, and drainage work, Frank’s prompt service and quality can’t be beat.

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY CT Commercial Realty 612 Main St., Somers (860) 851-9647 www.ccrsales.com Opening in 1990 in New London, Commercial Realty soon grew from its family roots and spread across Connecticut. Licensed in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, the agency has appraised, auctioned, and brokered its way to the top. Realtor Victoria Clark, who was voted Best Realtor, feels that the agency’s prosperity stems from its “focus on personal service. The expertise and personal concern prove vital to a process that in effect deals with an equally personal product: a home.

CT Commercial Realty, as the best real estate agency sells more than merely property, they sell their clients a place to call home.

Thank You! FINE To All Of Our Customers OOD That Voted Us BestN Dinner.

F I A CASUAL ATMOSPHERE Continental menu Comfortable lounge Steaks & Seafood with extensive wine selections Seafood delivered fresh daily

BEST REALTOR Victoria Clark CT Commercial Realty 612 Main St., Somers (860) 851-9644 www.ccrsales.com Choosing the right realtor is key, often requiring trust with realtors who are mostly strangers. However Victoria Clark, as the readers have shown with their votes, is able to establish a reputation with recurring customers, and gain trust from newcomers. “I love meeting new people, and helping people through the process,” Clark said, “and the fact that things are always changing.” Clark’s interaction with property seekers has proven crucial to CT Commercial Realty, shown through the fact that most of her clients approach after referrals from others. A family oriented person, Clark enjoys working in a business started by her own father, and the time she is able to spend with her children.

BEST STYLIST Colleen Wurdig Heads Up & Body Works 67 South Road, Somers (860) 763-2235 When in need of a spa treatment or styling, customers often surrender themselves to the skilled hands of the professionals at Heads Up & Body Works. Yet one pair has seemed to generate the most satisfaction; the hands of Colleen Wurdig.

Fellow employee Jessica Lheulippe said Wurdig’s title of Best Stylist is well deserved. Customer satisfaction is a top priority according to Lheulippe. “We want to make sure that our customers are 100 percent happy when they walk out the

door,” she said. And indeed with the quality care administered by Wurdig, North Central Connecticut’s best stylist is an invaluable aspect of the Heads Up team.

SHOPPING BEST ANTIQUE SHOP A Family Heirloom 352 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon /Rockville (860) 872-9100 A Family Heirloom is voted best antique shop in northern Connecticut, making it as much of a gem as the numerous pieces within it. Although local, Heirloom’s extent is global. Jessica Liscomb, co-owner with her husband Scott, pointed out Heirloom’s uniqueness.

“We are able to help our consigners and people that sell to us because we can offer a great price because we ship worldwide.”

Often dealing with coins, gold, furniture, toys, and pocket watches, A Family Heirloom’s international contacts guarantee optimum prices for those rummaging for treasure through their attic. Liscomb describes the atmosphere of the shop as “relaxed and family oriented.” The shop’s personal yet professional approach is a philosophy that, like an antique, seems to better with age.

BEST CONVENIENCE STORE I-Beez Handy Mart 8 Church St., Ellington (860) 872-1203 I-Beez, an Ellington institution for many years, wins the category this year.

Owner Kathleen Eubank is pleased with the award. “I’m really happy with it - it’s

BEST OF/page 19

Thank you to all of our loyal North Central readers who voted for us in this year's poll!

We appreciate your support as we look forward to our 9th year in Somers!

Sandwiches & Salads DINNERAvailable FOR TWO:for $39.00 Includes Salad, Entree & a banquets bothAppetizer, lunch and dinner Bottle of Wine....parties, Daily 4 p.m.

- close. or Not valid with other discounts. holidays any occasion

Hours of operation Monday - Thursday 11:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 10 :00 p.m.

Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Heads Up and Bodyworks

39 Hazard Avenue, Enfield CT 06083 • 860-239-0004

67 South Road Somers, CT. 860-763-2235 Full service, service salon, spa and wellness wellness center. center.

6 North Central News August 2007

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People Theatre Founder Branches Out into Online Comics

By Margo Van Kuren STAFFORD - Witches, spells, and demons fairly leap from the colorful pages of a new online web comic strip by Stafford resident Tony Diana. Diana, who along with his wife, Allyson, founded the Downstairs Production Company, decided to pursue other outlets for his prodigious creativity when the company, a non-profit organization that specialized in children’s theater, lost its rehearsal space in town hall last year.

“We looked at it as an opportunity to take a breather after 15 years,” Diana recalled. “I started focusing on digital art and music, and Allyson is about to have a book published.”

A wide-ranging display of Diana’s many talents can be found on his website, necromare.net. The content, though done in good taste, isn’t for the squeamish.

Diana has long been a fan of the macabre, and the collection of digital art on the site reflects this.

“That’s one of the reasons I got into Japanese-style animation, or ‘manga,’” he

said. “It’s colorful and fun, and isn’t quite as dark as some of the other things I’ve done.”

The web comic, called “My Sister the Demon,” centers around three young witches who have been orphaned, and must use all their skills to set things right when one of the sisters becomes possessed by a demon—a demon with a secret.

“The characters live in a real, breathing world, with its own history and mythology,” Diana said.

The free comic runs in a six-month series, and records 500 to 1,000 hits a day—pretty impressive for a venture that was just launched in March.

“I’ve always wanted to do a comic. As I kid, I was an avid fan of Spider Man and all the other great comic books. I still am!” Diana said. The necromare.net site contains a link to “My Sister the Demon.”

Diana is also a gifted musician and photographer whose original musical scores have enlivened some 15 feature films— “definitely ‘B’ movies,” he says—that are available on Netflix and Amazon.com.

Titles include “House of Carnage,” “Dire,” and “Eternal Night.” His digital photos

Summer Is HERE!

Tony Diana, who along with his wife, Allyson, founded the Downstairs Production Company, has found a home for his new comic book on the world wide web.

HERB & GIFT SHOP

Courtesy photo

and artwork have appeared on the covers of some well-known horror magazines; and he designs logos, as well.

“I’m starting to break out a little,” Diana said. “My mother inspired me to be a free thinker, to try things out.”

And that’s the same advice Diana would give to aspiring young artists.

“If one thing doesn’t work out, learn from it and move on,” he said. “There are millions of opportunities out there. The worst thing you can do by trying is to learn something.”

e-mail news to northcentralnews@ aol.com

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HAIR CARE • SKIN CARE • FACIALS • PEDICURES • PLANT PURE-FUMES August 2007 North Central News 7

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Ellington Ellington HS Students Named to Fourth Quarter Honor Roll ELLINGTON - The following students have been named to the fourth quarter honor roll at Ellington High School, according to a list supplied by the school.

GRADE 9 HIGH HONORS Brittany Boscarino, Alyssa Burdick, Courtney Carver, Stephen Crouse, Kerrin Ewing, Margaret Gage, Lindsay Grim, Calesia Henson, Mallory Honda, Rachel Muszynski, Ryan Ouimet, Emily Parker, Catherine Piotrowski, Kristyn Piotrowski, Jacob Smiley, Kendra Wright, Susan Zheng, Jason Zylberman HONORS Zachary Babineau, Janae Bahler, Dominique Beaudry, Justin Bird, Chelsea Bouchard, Marin Cleary, Emily Cobb, Rachel Cowan, Jordan Cusson, Emileeanne Decina, Sara DeConti, Alyssa DeLand, Ryan Downing, Megan Edwards, Gary Feldman, Laura Fetko, Brian Fisher, Jacob Friedman, Aaron Galat, Thomas Gerber, Cody Griffin, Ashlyn Haracsy, Heather Hulstein, Benjamin Kapinos, Brian Kelleher, Evan Kosilla, Amber Krasinski, David Lavoie, Matthew Lebel, Briana Lechkun, Blaize Levitan, Bryana Lucas, Kailyn Lundeberg, Molly Martin,

Kelsey Masterson, Aissa McGuirl, Taylor Mills, Chloe Moeller, David Moser, Ziana Motuzick, Evan Mozzer, Daniel O’Donnell, Jeffrey Parent, Jessica Peck, Mitchell Plourde, Ajay Raghavan, Joseph Raver, Emily Reed, Justin Roy, Kerry Sawamura, Matthew Schaeneman, Stephen Schirra, Melissa Selochan, Samantha Skeels, Melody Smith, Christopher Tempelman, Renee Therrien, Kaylee Thibodeau, Nicholas Varney, Evan Villanova, Eric Vincens, Sarah Virkler, Demetri Voukounas, Katherine Walker, Deanna Wambolt, David Welton, Brendon Willis GRADE 10 HIGH HONORS Chelsea Alves, Christopher Binkowski, Sarah Chouinard, Jessica Dennis, Kelly McPartland, Ryan Mocadlo, Jason Neeson, Alyssa Pallotti, Emily Savino, Jennifer Spartz, Nathan Van Wyck, James Viega, Toby Zheng HONORS Danielle Beaudry, Heidi Beutel, Nichole Boone, Joshua Boscarino, Taylor Brown, Aaron Burstein, Jocelyn Close, William Conley, Kinsey Daly, Michael Demarest, Michelle Ducharme, Alyssa

Fidanza, Nicole Fillion, Ashley Foley, Christopher Francis Brittany Garnelis, Elena Gayton, Jillian Golon, Michael Gordon, Julianne Gottier, Alayna Graziani, Elizabeth Harding, Timothy Heintz, Annalise Hurley, Amanda Keune, Michelle Kim, Kristen Kline, Ryan Koprek, Anastasia Kuryatenko, Laura Lakenbach, Jeremy Loretz, Lisa Mackintosh, Ashley Maitland, Carley Marholin, Kyle Marquis, Amanda McAllister, Cody McIntire, Kara Modzelewski, Matthew Naumec, Hayley Palozej, David Patrick, Chakardhar Pellakuru, Jeffrey Perron, Janese Pike, Nicholas Printy, Patrick Rabus, Holly Sander, Adam Sawamura, Shaune Sousa, Karalyn Stauffer, Holly Steinmetz, Brianna Unsworth, Olivia Wick-Bander, Ashleigh Williams

GRADE 11 HIGH HONORS Amber Albee, Erica Begin, Danielle Buttafuoco, Andrew Cannella, Jenna Cusson, Kevin DeLand, Kevin Goldthwaite, Jillian Kuraska, Nicole Marella, Matthew Miller, Joseph Wambolt HONORS Bradly Bahler, Carly Bahler, Weston Bevins, Victoria Boop, Shannon Bostiga, Jason Brown, Kathleen Burns, Matthew Cartier, Christopher Charest, David Cocuzzo, Alexander Conti, Amy Dias, Lindsay Dietz, Ashley Dorman, Daniel Dryburgh, Allison Dube, Sara Ewing, Emily Fetko, Aaron Friedman, Trevor Giroux, Michael Grinaski, Thomas Gworek, Alicia Hurlburt, Julie

HONOR/page 10

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Ellington Town Meeting To Discuss Acquisition of Open Space

By Margo Van Kuren ELLINGTON - The Ellington Board of Selectmen, at its July 16 meeting, unanimously approved a resolution authorizing $2 million in bonding “for costs related to the acquisition by the town of development rights for one or more parcels of agricultural land”—stipulated to mean all or part of a working farm.

The aim of the resolution is to protect and preserve farmland so that the town does not lose it to future development.

A town meeting was scheduled for Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. to discuss the resolution, which will then appear as a referendum question the Nov. 6 ballot.

Selectman Ann Harford expressed

concern about “overwhelming” voters on Election Day with municipal elections, the referendum, and up to 14 questions regarding the town charter.

First Selectman Michael Stupinski responded that “on such an important question, you want to have the maximum number of people voting on it.” He added that the farmland resolution will be the first item on the ballot.

A town meeting that originally had been scheduled prior to the selectmen’s meeting to appropriate additional funds for the Crystal Lake school wells replacement project was cancelled and rescheduled for Aug. 20 at 7:15 p.m. at the town hall. The meeting was rescheduled due

Freshman Orientation 2007 Will Be Aug. 16 ELLINGTON - Ellington High School’s freshmen orientation will be held on Aug. 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Students will assemble in the high school auditorium.

In addition to meeting with high school administrators, staff and guidance counselors, students will participate in the highly rated Making High School Count presentation program. This is a one-hour, assembly style presentation,

which is designed to help students understand the importance of high school and what they need to accomplish to maximize their opportunities upon graduation.

The program also addresses transitional issues such as time management and study skills.

For more information contact the guidance office at (860) 896-2357.

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to a change in the amount of the appropriation recommended by the Board of

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Democrats, Republicans Pick Candidates for Fall Elections ELLINGTON - Democratic and Republican slates have been chosen for the Nov. 6 elections. Long-time Democratic Selectman Dennis Frawley will challenge Michael Stupinski for the first selectman’s seat. Democratic incumbent Leo Miller, former first selectman Dennis Milanovich, Mark Joyce, a Finance Board member, and Laurie Burstein will run for selectmen’s seats. They will be opposed by new Republican candidate John W. Turner and incumbents Peter Charter, Ann Harford, and James M. Pritchard.

For the Democrats, Fire Chief Michael Varney will join incumbent Albert Wachsman in the contest for seats on the Board of Finance, while Republicans Robert Clements, a 25-year incumbent, and Joseph Wehr, former chair of the charter revision commission, will oppose them. Incumbents Howard Freidman,

Tracey Kiff-Judson, and Emilio Gilberto will be joined by Stephanie Podewell and William Trisler in their run for seats on the Board of Education. On the Republican side, current chair Dale Roberson and incumbents Maurice Blanchette and William Harford round out the slate.

Democrats Sheila Frawley, Mary Cardin, Mark Sperling, and Adam LaFleche, all incumbents, plan to run again for the Zoning Board of Appeals. Incumbent Robert Palozej is the Republicans’ pick.

Democratic incumbent Robert Hoffman will be joined by Richard Ziomek and Mark Maciolek in the contest for seats on the Planning and Zoning Commission, opposed by Republicans Carol Strom and Lori Speilman. Wanda Deland was selected to run for registrar of voters.

– Margo Van Kuren

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(860) 875-6683 408 Somers Road (Rte 83) • Ellington, CT August 2007 North Central News

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Ellington Local Minister’s Son Will Follow the Same Path as His Father ELLINGTON - Jonathan Buisch was guest speaker at Ellington Baptist on June 17 and provided an inspiring Father’s Day message. Jonathan used the stories of two Old Testament brothers, Cain and Seth, to illustrate how the effects of their decisions impacted the lives of many generations to follow in both positive and negative ways.

Buisch is a 2003 graduate of Ellington High School.

While in high school, he participated in cross country and indoor/outdoor track, where he earned honors as an allconference and all-state athlete. He graduated magna cum laude in May 2007 from Roberts Wesleyan College with a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Philosophy. At Roberts Wesleyan, Buisch was a distance runner for the cross country and track teams. He also served in a spiritual capacity as team chaplain.

During the summer of 2006, Buisch interned as an

assistant pastor at the West Portland Baptist Church in Westfield, N.Y., where he lead a youth group, participated in Vacation Bible School, and preached Sunday morning and evening sermons. Buisch says of this experience, “This internship was a great opportunity for me to put into practice what I had been learning at Roberts and to ensure that the full time pastorate is definitely where God is calling me”.

Buisch looks forward to continuing his education this fall as he enters Dallas Theological Seminary, where he will pursue a Masters of Theology. At the completion of this four-year program, Buisch plans to enter into a full time pastorate position. He reflected, “I am able to look back upon my experiences in life and see that God has had His hand on me throughout all of my difficult struggles and my moments of greatest glory. He has truly brought

me down an interesting path and I am excited to see what it is He has in store for me in the future.”

Buisch will serve as guest speaker again on Aug. 5 during the morning worship service at 11 a.m.; a luncheon Jonathan Buisch, right, with his reception will be father, the Rev. Russell Buisch, of held from 1-3 p.m. at Ellington Baptist Church. the Ellington Baptist Church. For further information, call the church office at (860) 872-8444.

Honor Roll Announced for Fourth Quarter at Ellington HS (continued from page 8) Hutchinson, Carissa Jett, Kyle Kalinowski, Marisa Lauria, Katelyn Levesque, Kyle Maloney, Melissa Martin, Alexander Maslak, Michael Miller, Joseph Mills, Danielle Plachy, Katelyn Plickys, Ryan Richardson, Lydia Schneider, Lucas Smith-Horn, Joseph Stein, Amanda Sullivan, Andrew Sullivan, Colleen

Sullivan, Nicole Thibodeau, Casey Toombs, Rebekah Viens, Emily Yourie GRADE 12 HIGH HONORS Katrina Cook, Andrew Janiga, Lindsay King, Laura Norbut, Megan Sirag HONORS John Antonaras, Erinn Arbelaez, David Bedford, Jennifer Bellizzi, David Beutel,

Allison Breen, Tara Clynch, Julia Connor, Karyn Cormier, Sarah Coviello, Eric Dinse, Amanda Dobrowolski, Elena Fader, Anthony Ferrari, Michelle Gluhosky, Leanne Golden, Amy Griswold, Mallory Householder, Kyle Hunter, Johnathan Hurlburt, Thorge Jensen, Nicole Jenson, Alyssa King, Bethany Kline, Samuel Leonardo, Derick Lessard, Ryan Luginbuhl, Justin Margnelli, Brittany

Martin, Elizabeth Maxwell, Phillip Maychek, Andrew McHugh, Elena Pappas, Courtney Payzant, Alyssa Purnhagen, Keeran Rajasekaran, Lauren Ramsdell, Jessica Schillinger, Maureen Scully, Nichole Squadrito, Mandy Stone, Katelyn Streiber, Mark Szafir, Jenna Lynn Thomas, Gregory Vaida

Mark Decker, MD of ECHN Ellington Family Practice would like to thank his patients for the privilege of providing their primary health care. He has deeply enjoyed being a member of the community and providing care to his patients. Dr. Decker will be relocating out-of-state on Friday, August 3, 2007.

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Dr. Decker’s practice associates, family physician Narayana Padala, MD, Mary Robbins-Morganson, PA, and Carol Tuller, APRN, will continue to provide for the care of his patients.

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10 North Central News August 2007

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Enfield Food Service Directors Tour Groszyk Farm Because of Its Unique Production Methods ENFIELD - The CT Dept of Agriculture and the School Nutrition Association of CT (SNACT) annually creates an opportunity for school food service directors, their employees, and other people involved in the school lunch programs to tour a local farm. This year, the Farm-To-School Tour went to Groszyk Farms, in Enfield.

Groszyk Farm is a new farm in Connecticut. Andre and Kiki Groszyk bought the farm 15 years ago and have been farming full-time for the last 12. The Enfield farm is about 40 acres of production land and another 60 acres of leased land in surrounding towns. Twenty acres are dedicated to vegetable production.

Groszyk Farm is unique in the fact they use greenhouses as season extenders to provide crops later into the fall season.

The Groszyks, their kids and dedicated staff grow a wide variety of produce including blueberries, raspberries, muskmelons, green beans, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, corn, cukes, radishes, eggplant, garlic, kale, leeks, radishes, both summer and winter squash, tomatoes (both cherry and slicing) and pumpkins.

One hundred percent of their farm sales are through direct sales through farmers’

market, a small roadside stand, and FarmTo-School. They have been selling to the South Windsor schools for the last three years and were one of the first farms to participate in this Department of Ag sponsored program. Andre and Kiki have four kids ages 11 to 19 and all four children participate in the day to day operations of the farm in one way or another—from field work to direct marketing sales.

Recently, 35 food service persons from around the state, from towns like Seymour, Tolland, Vernon, Simsbury, Glastonbury, Region 6-Wamogo, and South Windsor, to mention a few, climbed on a bus for a 20minute ride from their convention site in Rocky Hill to Groszyk in Enfield. While on the bus, state Department of Agriculture personnel handed out fact sheets about the farm, discussed the potential and the procedures for the schools to use CT Grown, the Farm-To-School website and other Department of Agriculture programs, like the new “The Local Flavor” campaign. Special guests from the CT Department of Education and a representative from the USDA/Boston Regional Office were there, too.

Enfield Rotary Club Honors Fallen Soldier The Enfield Rotary Club recently honored Enfield Native Lance Cpl. Philip Johnson, who was killed in Iraq on September 2, 2006, while serving his country. A cherry tree, chosen by Philip’s parents, Kathy and Lou Johnson, was dedicated with a plaque at the June 27 Rotary meeting held at Rotary Park at the Enfield Senior Center. Rotary members, along with Philip’s family, unveiled the plaque in Philip’s memory.

Rotary members felt dedicating a tree in the Commons Grounds Garden at Rotary Park was an appropriate way to honor Lance Cpl. Johnson. From left, Enfield Rotary President Kiran Majmudar; Kathy Johnson and Beverly Titus, Lance Cpl. Philip Johnson’s mother and grandmother; Rotary Member and Dedication Organizer, Dave Drinan.

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Somers Additional Funds for Sewage Treatment Plant Approved

By Linda Tishler Levinson SOMERS —The cost of expanding the Somersville sewage treatment has almost doubled.

On July 25 the additional funding for the project was approved in a Town Meeting vote. The project had originally been budgeted at $460,000, according to First Selectman David Pinney. The cost has risen to $885,000.

Pinney said the town for the past three years has been working with the developer of the Somers Village project to create a cooperative plan to expand the sewage treatment plant. The need for the expansion was “prompted primarily by the new housing going in,” he said.

Somers Village, off Shaker Road, is an active adult community for those 55 and older. The development will include 80 to 85 houses that will be hooked up to the treatment plant. Since there was not enough capacity with the

existing plant, the developer and the town agreed to split the cost of the expansion.

The first selectman added that the town wanted the additional capacity to accommodate the future uses of the Somersville mill.

The town has been having “active and productive conversations” with potential developers for the mill project, Pinney said. It will most likely be used for residential development, but the project may include a combination of commercial, residential and retail uses.

“As the mill is renovated or redeveloped, there will be a need to hook up those tenants … to the sewer system,” he said.

With the town meeting approval the project, which had gone out for construction bids, can proceed.

“We’ve seen the costs of several aspects of the project

go up quite a bit,” Pinney said, noting that the cost of sand has increased substantially.

The town is also nearing completion of the acquisition of the Whitaker property for open space preservation, in cooperation with the Northern Connecticut Land Trust.

The land trust will manage the 227-acre parcel, and the land trust and the town are splitting the cost. The town will receive a $450,000 state open space grant to help offset the $1.2 million price tag for the property. To help cover its half of the remainder of the cost, the town is selling three building lots on the property. The land trust has received grants from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving and others to help pay its half.

The process has worked so well, Pinney said, that the town hopes to work with the land trust on acquiring 132 acres on Scully Road.

Danny Michaud, 53; Native of Somers Had Long Career in Education PORTLAND, ME - Danny R.P. Michaud, 53, died peacefully July 4, at Maine Medical Center in Portland. He was born in St. Agatha, Oct. 29, 1953, the son of Clifford and Yvette (Hebert) Michaud. He grew up in Somers, Conn., until his senior year in high school when he moved to Daigle. He graduated from Fort Kent High School in 1971. He received his B.S. degree in education from U.M.F.K. in 1975, with a major in social studies, a M.A. degree in history from U.M.O. in 1977, a M. of Ed. degree in secondary school administration from U.M.O. in 1982, and an Ed.D. in education administra-

tion, from Nove University, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. in 1989.

He was a member of the Maine School Superintendents Association, Aroostook County Superintendents, The Maine Development Foundation, Leadership, National Association of Partners in Education Inc., New England Association of Superintendents, and the American Association of School Administrators.

He was superintendent in Madawaska, Eastport and SAD 43, Mexico. Principal at the following schools; Mountain Valley High School, SAD 43, Schenck High School, in

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East Millinocket, Van Buren District Secondary High School, 9-12, and assistant principal at Van Buren Secondary school, and taught social studies in Van Buren.

He was a devoted husband and father, and his daughters’ happiness was his utmost concern.

In addition to his mother of Lewiston, he is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Mary Helen (Swan) Michaud of Madawaska; three daughters, Wendy K. and her husband, Jason Cushman, of Waterloo, Ontario

Canada, Sara A. Michaud of Charlotte, N.C., and Amanda M. Michaud of Madawaska; three brothers, David and his wife, Brenda Michaud, Donald and his wife, Sara-Kay Michaud, all of Fort Kent, and Dennis Michaud of Lewiston; nieces, Amy and her husband, Brad Powicki, of Epping, N.H., Jennifer and her husband, Brian Morgan, of Londonderry, N.H., Melissa Michaud of Fort Kent; two nephews, Eric and Connor Michaud, both of Fort Kent.

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Somers Money Proclaims Somers Among Best Places to Live

By Linda Tishler Levinson SOMERS — Town officials say residents have long known what a great place Somers is to live, but they’re thrilled to see confirmation from outside.

Money magazine has named Somers No. 53 on this year’s list of America’s Best Places to Live, its annual ranking of America’s most livable towns.

Middletown, Wis., was ranked the best place to live. Also in the top 10, in order, were Hanover, N.H.; Louis Louisville, Colo.; Lake Mary, Fla; Claremont, Calif.; Papillion, Neb.; Milton, Mass.; Chaska, Minn.; Nether Providence (Wallingford), Pa.; and Suwanee, Ga. “It’s nice to see some type of relatively objective analysis confirm what we in town feel about Somers,” said First Selectman David Pinney.

“I think it’s a recognition of the town in terms of its rural character and the type of lifestyle that people move here to have,” said town Economic Development Commission Chairman Louis Bachetti.

“The town has maintained through the years its rural character.”

The town also has excellent schools and community activities, Bachetti added.

“I think it’s a great thing,” he said of making the list.

For Sarah Moynihan, of Somers, the magazine listing was an opportunity to showcase her photography as well as her town. She happened to be in Town Hall and ran into Pinney, who told her the magazine needed photographs of the town. She spoke to the editors, gave them a link to her Web site and told her, “You can pretty much assume your photo will be in there.”

Her photo of the school complex was chosen and is in the August issue, along with the list.

“It was a very nice surprise and a great opportunity,” Moynihan said.

The magazine said of Somers, “A suburb of Hartford, Somers has the feel of a quiet New England town. And like a lot of places in New England, it works hard to promote a strong sense of community. The Cultural Commission hosts everything from art shows to tea parties to an annual concert series, while the recreation departments runs a teen center and skate park for its younger residents. Somers is currently

looking into revitalizing its downtown, as well.”

According to a written release, Money began with a list of 2,876 places with populations from 7,500 to 50,000. Data provider OnBoard of New York City and consultant Bert Sperling of Bestplaces.net, helped editors narrow the list based on economic vitality, job availability, safety,

Choice

residents’ health, ethnic and racial diversity, cultural amenities, green space and other economic and quality-of-life measures. This year’s rankings gave extra consideration to home pricing and property taxes.

Other Connecticut towns to make the list were North Haven, 86; Rocky Hill, 35; and Trumbull, 68.

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Goodwin College Gives Book Awards to Area High School Juniors HARTFORD - This spring, Goodwin College awarded the first Goodwin College Book Awards to high school juniors at 14 area high schools. Students were selected by their administrators and guidance counselors for their outstanding academic achievements, their demonstration

of effort toward self-improvement, their desire to pursue a career in service to others, and their dedication to their local communities. Lydia Schneider and Andrew Slicer from Ellington High School were honored, as was Brian Coughlin of Somers High School.

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Visit our 1746 Salt Box at 596 Main Street, Somers, CT

Select a gift of nature for your home.

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Authorized Swarovski Optics Dealer Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-5pm. • Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • Closed Sunday & Monday

Augsut 2007 North Central News

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Somers Students Named to Avery Middle School 4th Quarter Honor Roll SOMERS - The following students were named to the honor roll at Mabelle B. Avery Middle School in Somers.

Grade 7 Honors Jake Alvaro, Mackenzie Anderson, Renee Beaulieu, Raina Bedard, John Cardwell, Lucas Conley, Angela DiLorenzo, Allison Dubanoski, Kelly Egan, Joseph Felix, Cody Gneiting, Josmavelin Gomez, Emily Goodenow, Brianna Guite, Michael Hein, Jack Kapino, Magdalena Kruzel, Amanda Latif, Connor Lockyer, Kerisa Morin, Katherine Morton, Jason Moustafa, Connor O’Grady, Colin Pascoe, Michelle Pellissier, Ashley Ricard, Kevin Roberts,Tyler Russell, Gabrielle Samson, Rebecca Scheuer, Sylvia Szleszynski, Christopher Tolisano, Samantha Urbon,

Emily Vanasse, Richard Vanasse, Emily Vecchiarelli, Nicholas Vecchio, Kenneth Vollaro, Rachael Wilson, Kiernan Wyllie.

Grade 8 Honors Quinn Aslin, Ryan Bartolf, Matthew Benoit, Michael Benoit, Alexander Bych, Kristen Conley, Amanda Connor, Madeline Dawson, Ryan Donovan, Patrick Drohr, Aaron Elman, Olivia Fenton, James Folger, Tricia Galinski, Taylor Geas, Derek Geoffroy, Sarah Goodman, Annette Hailer, Michael Hanna, Jessica Higgins, Kevin Huang, Ryan King, Ashley Kinney, Shelby LaDue, Jennifer Lam, Justin Locke, Matthew Lynch, Laura McLaughlin, Jo-Ann Meunier, Lee-Ann Percoski, Trevor Percoski, Melissa Perry, Elizabeth Poitras, Molly Regan, Rosemary Richi, Alan Roberts, Dillon Ruby, Cody

Rush, Siobhan Ryan, Millicent Sawtelle, Jacob Scheuer, Jonathan Schiessl, Brandon Stinson, Katherine Suschana, Matthew Traceski, Andrew White, Madison Zachary.

Grade 7 High Honors Amanda Archambault, Emma Blauvelt, Kaitlyn Boggio, Cassidy Caravella, Sean Coverdill, Sara Crisafi, Emily Doran, Hannah Fasano, Marissa Fragomeni, Teresa Garlick, Nathan Gasek, Alex Geas, Ryan Geib, Adam Goodman, Thomas Gorski, Kaylee Gosselin, Evan Hayowyk, Victoria LaVallee, Taylor Leaska, Richard Lees III, Katie Loughrey, Heather MacLauchlan, Ryan Mailhot, Nicholle Maille,Krista Morello, Caitlin Moriarty, Samuel Moser, Allyssa Norton, Sabrina Okun, Jacqueline Schober, Marta Stenz,

Kyle Sullivan, Shannon Sullivan, Victoria Vendetta, Douglas Vollaro, Karisa Welch, Jennifer West, Ainsley Wilson.

Grade 8 High Honors Kaylee Alberti, Alexander Andersen, Lauren Astone, Arianna Bliss, Andrea Braica, Georgia Burke, Neil Cardwell, Brian Coope, Kelsey Falcone, Morgan Falcone, Courtney Flynn, Thomas Gay, Christopher Giza, Adam Guerrette, Brianna Herbert, Shaelyn Killoh, Sara Laplante, Marissa Lucey, Christopher Mashiak, Daniel O’Grady, Austin Portal, Kelsey Richards, Brandon Roberts, Mary Rockett, Kathryn Squillace, Heather Wright, Samantha Zawistowski.

Somers K of C Awards Scholarships to Five Hospital Volunteers SOMERS - Again this year, the Somers Knights of Columbus sponsored its Annual Bernie Mikulski Memorial Scholarship. Five teen volunteers from Johnson Memorial Hospital (JMH) have recently been named as recipients and have received scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000. A total of $4,000 was awarded.

The five recipients of the scholarships include Brittany Bennett, an Enrico Fermi High School graduate who will be attending Rhode Island School of Bud Halpin, of the Somers Knights of Columbus, is seen with the Design; Ellen O’Neil, an E.O. Smith High School five recipients of the Bernie Mikulski Memorial Scholarship, graduate who will be attending Saint Anselm College; including (from left) Jennifer Pelletier, Brittany Bennett, Rachel Jennifer Pelletier, an Enrico Fermi High School graduZdebski, Ellen O’Neil and Mary Thompson.

ate who will be attending Springfield College; Mary Thompson, a Somers High School graduate who will be attending Case Western Reserve University; and Rachel Zdebski, a Somers High School graduate who will be attending Simmons College. These five dedicated teens have volunteered a combined total of 950 hours at JMH. The Annual Bernie Mikulski Memorial Golf Tournament will take place this year on Aug. 17, at the Hampden Country Club in Hampden, Mass. For more information, please call the Somers Knights of Columbus at (860) 749-8441.

James P. Fitzgerald, DMD, MS Dr. Fitzgerald graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He completed a residency in General Dentistry at Danbury Hospital and then returned to the UConn School of Dental Medicine for a Fellowship in Periodontics.

Dr. Fitzgerald and his staff are dedicated to helping their patients achieve and maintain good health, function and appearance.

Our practice utilizes current technologies including digital x-rays, which use less radiation and provide instantaneous images, to make your care better and more comfortable.

We perform a wide range of general dentistry services, and have a focus on replacing missing teeth with crowns, bridges and dentures on dental implants.

We’ll Take Good Care of You (860) 749-0781

14 North Central News August 2007

48 South Road, Somers, CT 06071

Hours : Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8-5 Open Late on Tuesday 10-7

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Somers Women’s Club Honored for Outstanding Membership Growth SOMERS - At the recent 110th annual convention of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of CT (GFWC/CT), the Somers Women’s Club was the recipient of the prestigious Sutton Gavel. Each year the gavel is presented to the GFWC/CT Club having the largest net percentage growth in membership in the past year.

As Club President, Arlene Yarnes, proudly accepted the gavel, GFWC/CT Third Vice President, Mary Antey, announced that the Somers Women’s Club had incurred a 24 percent growth in membership in the past year. As a result, the club not only was recognized as the First Place winner amongst the medium-sized clubs for having the largest net percentage growth in that category, but it then also received the Sutton Gavel because the club had the largest net percentage membership

growth amongst all of the Connecticut clubs.

This is the first time the Somers Women’s Club has been the recipient of the Sutton Gavel. It will be displayed at its monthly membership meetings in the forthcoming club year, which begins in September. A number of Somers Women’s Club members were in attendance at the convention.

In addition to the above, the Somers Women’s Club also received awards for its monthly newsletter, its involvement in Arts in the Community, and its successful publicity campaign and Publicity Press Book.

These awards were in addition to the six awards the club received for Leadership, Women’s Health, Helping Hands, Community Safety, Fundraising, and Beautification at the recent District Day

Conference.

Individual members of the Somers Women’s Club were also recipients of awards at the convention for the statewide GFWC/CT Arts and Crafts Contest. Their various entries had previously won First Place awards at the Club and District Level Competitions.

Somers Women’s Club members who received First Place Awards at the State Level Competition were Deb Pero, Dorothy Thompson, and Arlene Yarnes. Second Place Awards were also awarded to Estelle Lech and Deb Pero, Ms. Pero having had two entries.

The Somers Women’s Club is a member of the GFWC/CT as well as the International General Federation of Women’s Clubs. It has been a foundation in Somers for 86 years. For membership information, contact the Somers Women’s Club Second Vice President and Membership Chairman, Karen Anderson, at (860) 749-0567.

At the annual convention of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of CT, the Somers Women’s Club was the recipient of the prestigious Sutton Gavel. Each year the gavel is presented to the club having the largest net percentage growth in membership. Club President, Arlene Yarnes accepted it for Somers this year.

Hours: Mon. 8-1, Tues. 10-7 • Weds. 8-5 Thurs. 10-7, Fri. 8-5 • Saturday 9-4

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Currently accepting applications for Kindergarten 2008 & Kindergarten 2009

August 2007 North Central News

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Somers Great Escape Road Race Continues to Grow; Set for Sept. 15 SOMERS - For something that started as a lark, the Somers Great Escape Road Race has turned into an annual event that is gaining regional notoriety. The event is Sept. 15 at 8 a.m. at the Somers Education Complex, 55 Ninth District Road, Somers.

Now in its 8th year, it is the result of a casual conversation in the spring of 2000 between Paul Salva and Paul Gagliarducci about the Rotary Club needing to do something other than the beer booth at the 4Town Fair. Salva brought up the idea.

Gagliarducci, who was the club president, said “Good idea. You’re in charge.”

From these humble origins, the race was born in September 2000. Race day staff was Paul Salva, Ed Palomba, Tom Mazzoli and Ed Giza. It has expanded from those four to almost 30 people, many of whom are not Rotary Club members.

The name “Great Escape” comes from Somers being the home of the state penitentiary. Whenever someone mentions Somers, the first or second response is “Isn’t that where the prison is?” Even “the Rem Dawg, Jerry Remy” commented about that when Sox fans from Somers had a sign at a spring training game. Until 2006, the race T-shirt had a convict with a

ball-and-chain running away. For a change of pace, last year’s shirt had a mountain scene for an “escape to the country” concept.

Every event develops a history. The “Great Escape” is no exception, having grown and changed every year. The first year, 96 T-shirts were printed and 96 people registered to run. That was taken as a good omen. To handle the increasing number of runners, Ernie Allsup brought registration into the computer age in 2002.

Joe Iadarola took over managing the water stations and Steve Squillace manages the post race refreshments. Jim MacFeat and Wayne Dumas take care of the set up preparations.

The “Great Escape” started as a 5K race. Because of the scenery and that September mornings are a great time to run, several participants suggested a longer race. So, a 5 mile race was added in 2001.

Prize money was introduced in 2003. The race survived Hurricane Ivan in 2004.

However, records for that year didn’t. It rained so hard that pens wouldn’t write and paper was tearing. Even indelible markers have limitations. Online registration and payment through

Photography By Dianne

SomersNow.com/race started in 2005.

The 5k course was USATF certified (CT04017-PH) in 2005.

In 2006, 229 runners from 53 different towns participated. Times have become competitive with the men’s and women’s 5k records being 15:25 and 18:41 respectively. The 5mile records are 25:26 men’s and 31:16 women’s. All were set in 2005.

Changes continue for 2007. The 5 mile course has been changed so that both races have a common finish line. Prize money

has been increased and is now $300 for first, $150 for second and $50 for third place for both men and women. Age division winners receive medals and $20 each.

The fun doesn’t end after the race. The 4-Town Fair, the oldest continuously running Fair in Connecticut, is the same weekend and its parade starts right after the race followed by a full day at the Fair.

For more information and to register on line, go to SomersNow.com/race.

PreSchoolers Celebrate Moving On

The Kids Academy held its first “moving on” ceremony for pre-school graduates on June 29, 2007 with lots of family and friends to help the children celebrate their accomplishments over the last year. Stephanie Cuevas, preschool teacher, is pictured with the students.

Pre-Schools Weddings Children’s Portraits Families

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Somers Cheney Promoted to Assistant Vice President, Branch Officer SOMERS – Richard (Rick) Cheney has been promoted to assistant vice president, branch officer for Rockville Bank. Cheney manages the bank’s office at 612 Main St., in Somers.

Cheney has more than 23 years of banking experience. He has worked at Rockville Bank for 13 years, and has been the branch manager of the Somers office

for the past seven years. Prior to that, he was the branch officer for Rockville Bank’s Ellington location.

He joined Rockville Bank from Fleet Mortgage where he was a mortgage originator for private banking. His years in the banking industry also included positions at Heritage Bank in Holyoke, Mass., and at Mechanics Savings Bank in Hartford.

Asnuntuck Student Wins Coca-Cola Scholarship ENFIELD - Marcia Monro, a student at Asnuntuck Community College in Enfield, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.

Through the Coca-Cola Two-Year Colleges Scholarship Program, the foundation awards a total of 400 scholarships annually to students attending higher-education institutions granting two-year degrees. In April, one scholar from each state received a $2,000 scholarship from Coca-Cola through the New Century Scholar Program of the American Association of Community Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa, the two-year college scholastic honorary organization. On June 29, an additional 350 students were awarded a $1,000 scholarship. All recipients have demonstrated academic success and

participated in community service within the past 12 months.

“The Coca-Cola Two-Year Colleges Scholarship Programs gives support and encouragement to an under-served population of college students,” and J. Mark Davis, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “This program is an extension of our long-standing commitment to college education throughout the United States. These fine students, who often juggle school, work and family, continue to give back to their communities through volunteer service.”

The Coca-Cola Two-Year Colleges Scholarship Program is made possible with funding from the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation. The Whitehead Foundation provides grants in support of human services initiatives.

OPEN HOUSE Somers Cooperative Preschool Wednesday, August 27, 2007

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We still have space available in the 3's and 4's afternoon classes Meetthe theteachers, teachers and explore Meet explore the school the school classrooms. classrooms and enjoy our Openings Still Available ICE CREAM SOCIAL!

Cheney is active in the North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce, and the Somers Rotary Club. He is a member of the Somers Economic Development Commission and serves on the Board of Trustees of the Mooreland Hill School, a private middle school in Kensington, Conn. Cheney belongs to the Indian Orchard Masonic Lodge, the Melha Shriners, and is a Justice of the Peace. The Somers resident lives with his wife, Lorraine, and their son.

He holds a Bachelors degree from the University of Tampa with a double major in Business Administration and Economics, and is a graduate of the Springfield Leadership Institute, sponsored by the Springfield Chamber of Commerce.

Beaulieu Financial Services, LLC 48 South Road • P.O. Box 565 8 Somers, CT 06071 phone 860.749.4138 web www.jimbeaulieu.com Securities offered through Linsco Private Ledger. A registered broker/dealer, Member NASD, SIPC

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www.leetestevens.com August 2007 North Central News

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Somers Senior Transportation Network Receives Local Support ENFIELD - The ITN North Central Connecticut recently received a $1,000 donation from the Savings Institute. The Savings Institute donation represents an on-going effort to establish an economically sustainable, regional transportation service for individuals 60 years of age and older or visually impaired and living in the north central Connecticut towns of Enfield, East Windsor, Somers, Suffield, East Granby, Granby, Windsor, Windsor Locks, South Windsor and Bloomfield.

Set to begin operation in January 2008, the ITN North Central Connecticut received a start-up grant from the State of Connecticut, a grant from The Hartford Foundation and United Way of North Central Connecticut. In addition to the Savings Institute, donations have been received from The Senior Citizen Bus Committee, Rockville Bank Foundation, Allied Community Services, A.W. Hastings, Dan Roulier, American Eagle Federal Credit Union, First Merchants Group, Hallmark, New Alliance Bank and

the Hazardville Methodist Church.

The primary goal of the Senior Transportation Network is to enable seniors who no longer drive to maintain their freedom and independence, while also preserving their dignity. Those who wish to utilize the service will pay a nominal annual membership fee. In return, they will enjoy peace of mind in knowing that a car and driver are available to them anytime, and that they do not have to ask for favors, plan around the schedules of others, use public tax dollars, travel in groups, or make their way to a pick-up point to reach their destination. Rides will be charged by the mile and will be paid for out of a prepaid account established for each member.

A board of directors has been established to oversee ITN North Central Connecticut. Members of the executive board include, Fran Walenta, chairperson; Vice chairperson Holly Vannucci; secretary Susan Lather and Alice Egan, treasurer. Board Members are Scott Bertrand, Pam Brown, Elizabeth Burns, Gil Hayes,

New Day Care and Early Education Center

Savings Institute Branch Manger Ed Palomba (fourth from right) presenting check to Board Members (from left) Pam Brown, Alice Egan, Fran Walenta, Susan Lather and Marcia Hess.

Marcia Hess, Bill Kiner, Nicholas Miller and Lucy Peoples. Anyone interested in

Register now for Preschool • Innovative preschool curriculum taught by certified teachers • Full day or half day • We also offer infant, toddler and school aged programs • Tutoring program also available • Sparkling clean rooms

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Simba’s Care The Benefits For Your Pet In Using a Pet Sitter • Your pets won’t have the anxiety caused by leaving their home to be kenneled.

• We’ll give your pets Love and Attention with lots of exercise and play.

• Individual, personalized care for your pet’s needs.

• Your pet’s stress from being alone all day with nothing to do is relieved.

The Benefits For The Owner In Using a Pet Sitter • You can return home at any hour of the day and find your happy, healthy pet awaiting your return.

• You do not have to impose upon a friend, neighbor, or relative.

• Your home is looked after as well since we provide crime – deterrent services.

• You’ll be reunited with you pet as soon as you get home. No “last stop” to pick them up.

• You can leave home worry-free, knowing your pets are in good hands.

All of our professional pet sitters are insured and bonded, certified in CPR & Pet First Aid for Cats and Dogs through the American Red Cross and have undergone background check by ADP Services.

860-729-9008 – www.simbascare.com 18 North Central News August 2007

learning more about the program, can call Chris Casey at (860) 698-6267.

SUMMER DAY CAMP NOW ENROLLING Situated on 192 acres in the hills of Somers, Connecticut on the CT/Mass border, Camp Aya-Po has plenty of room for boys and girls (ages 5 – 14) to run, play, explore, and just have FUN! FREE bus transportation from 10 locations in the Greater Somers Area!

ACTIVITIES: Instructional Swimming Recreational Swimming • Boating • Arts & Crafts Low Ropes Course • Archery • Volleyball • Softball • Basketball Soccer • Flag Football Music/Drama • Nature/hiking/fishing

Call (860) 763-6444 or visit www.ywcahartford.org for more information!

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Best Of Readers’ Ballots Decide Best of North Central for 2007 (continued from page 6) a good thing!” she said.

It might be Kathleen’s pleasant personality that keeps folks coming back, or the desire to support a local “mom and pop” store. I-Beez is conveniently located in the Ellington Center Plaza, and offers video rentals, too.

BEST FLORIST Debbie Farnham Colonial Flower Shoppe 611 Main St., Somers (860) 763-0082 Flowers hold diverse meanings from condolences, to congratulations, to love.

Debbie Farnham of the Colonial Flower shop knows just that, and was voted best florist due to her ability to provide such floral messages. Farnham credits the quality of her flowers and products to the Shoppe’s success, as well as the staff’s personal approach to each customer. “We try to be here when the customer needs us,” Farnham said.

When doors first opened in 1982, no one could have imagined the shop celebrating its 25th year of service. Having won best florist two years ago, Farnham was ecstatic to see her work pay off again.

“People come back because our flowers

will last,” Farnham said, “and we will stand behind them.” Through the extensive green thumb knowledge of Farnham and her fellow employees, the Colonial Flower Shoppe has blossomed into the florist of choice for many Connecticut residents.

BEST GIFT SHOP Kassandra Herbs Unlimited 54 Springfield Road, Somers (860) 749-0839 Since 1995, Kassandra Herbs Unlimited owner Katherine Mashiak has offered a diverse stock of numerous items, including dry bulk herbs and spices, gourmet food products, books, candles, jewelry. Aside from the quality of the products at Kassandra Herbs Unlimited, Mashiak stringently tends to the customers needs, even going above expectations.

Small but thoughtful touches such as free gift-wrapping fuel the shop’s ambiance of quaint and friendly small town service. “We try to talk to each person individually and help them so they can easily purchase what they need and are satisfied with what they buy.”

Whether visiting or a resident, Kassandra’s runs with the efficiency and quality of a commercial chain, but does not sacrifice its small town charm.

Joanna’s Banquet

BEST PLACE TO RENT A MOVIE World of Video 253 Hazard Ave., Enfield (860) 763-2346 World of Video in the Galaxy Plaza wins in this category for the second straight year. No one has a larger selection, and there are always plenty of copies of the latest releases available. “We try to do what the chain stores can’t — to help

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the customer with what they’re looking for, not just what we happen to have in stock,” says owner Paul Denault. “We are happy to reserve movies for customers, or to order what they’re looking for.” Great customer service keeps bringing people back to World of Video.

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145 Main St. Rt. 190, Somers 749-6002 Mon. - Fri. 3 -10 p.m.

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August 2007 North Central News

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Somers Student Earns Scholarship for Environmental Commitment University of Rhode Island junior Rachael Gately has tended a flock of up to 50 sheep since elementary school, and she has won numerous national awards for her animals at livestock shows.

She has worried, however, that much of the agricultural land around her hometown of Somers and elsewhere has been disappearing, much of it converted to housing developments. That concern, along with her desire to work to preserve farmlands, has earned her the Morris K. Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, the nation’s most prestigious scholarship for students preparing for environmental careers.

“I’ve applied for a lot of local scholarships and haven’t gotten all of them, so I wasn’t expecting to get a national one,” said Gately. “But in the back of my mind I always had this weird feeling about it. I was sitting in class when my professor started talking about a student who won the scholarship, and I couldn’t believe he was talking about me!”

Gately’s interest in improving farming practices to help preserve farmland started early. By age 19,

she had been awarded two grants from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, including one for $70,000 to work with a soil conservationist and redesign the layout of her family’s farm. That effort turned the farm into a model of farmland conservation by demonstrating how farmers can use the land without harming it.

Gately enrolled at URI in part because of the university’s Peckham Farm, where students learn to raise and care for livestock. She said the farm felt like home, and she was pleased that the faculty offered her a job there even before she was accepted for admittance.

“Since sheep are my specialty, I’m at the farm all the time during lambing season,” she said. “I slept there to help the last ones give birth. By being there to help, we save a lot of lives.”

Gately is studying animal and veterinary science, with a goal of becoming a livestock veterinarian. “I had grown up with animals all my life, and at first I didn’t think I wanted to do it for a career,” she explained. “I thought it was some-

thing I had already done.

But at URI I discovered that livestock is where my passion is; I just didn’t realize it.”

Gately’s ultimate objective is to work with zoonotic diseases – those that can be passed from animals to humans, like mad cow and avian influenza. “Last year I took a diseases course and saw how these diseases relate to human overpopulation because human living space has taken over the places where animals live.

Eventually I want to get a master’s of public health degree and work in the regulatory world, somewhere at Rachel Gately has earned the Morris K. Udall the junction of the Centers Undergraduate Scholarship, the nation’s most presfor Disease Control, the tigious scholarship for students preparing for enviFederal Drug Administration ronmental careers. and the U.S. Department of URI, she will travel to Arizona in Agriculture.”

The Udall Scholarship will go a August with other Udall Scholarship long way toward helping her obtain winners for leadership training and to her objective. In addition to a $5,000 meet with national environmental and stipend toward her educational health policy experts. expenses during her senior year at

Thank you North Central News Readers for Voting Rockville Bank the Best Bank in the 2007 Reader Poll For the Third Year In A Row!

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Vernon 860-875-1824 • Ellington 860-875-2955 • (FAX) 860-875-5432 August 2007 North Central News

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Staf for d

Here I Come!

Olivia Person and brother Will Person of Tolland prepare to go down the Sack Slide during the final day of the Carnival Against Cancer, held Friday July 20 through July 22 at the Stafford Middle School.

Proceeds from the event benefited patient programs at the Phoenix Community Cancer Center.

Photo by David Butler II

Looking for more for your child?

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Now enrolling for 2007/2008 Offering: • Pre-school through 8th grade • Full-Day Kindergarten • Challenging curriculum • Low teacher-student ratio • Well structured, disciplined environment • Advanced math available for grade 8 • Before- and after-school latchkey SES Students: • Have been recognized at State and National levels for science, history, and writing • Are valued as active volunteers within their community • Fundraise for local, national, and worldwide charities • Center their lives on Christian values, enabling them to become responsible, contributing global citizens

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St. Edward School An education in values, a valuable education (860)684-2600 www.stedward-stafford.org stedwards.school@snet.net 25 Church Street, Stafford Springs, CT

22 North Central News August 2007

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Staf for d Selectmen Review Proposal for Age Restricted Project

By Margo Van Kuren STAFFORD - Developers of a proposed adult community on Wales Road have told the Board of Selectmen they plan to build 165 homes for adults 55 and over.

At its July 12 meeting, the board heard a presentation by Andy Carrier of Fuss and O’Neill regarding the proposed Lakeview Adult Community on Wales Road. The development must clear several hurdles, including the need for the Planning and Zoning Commission to draft regulations allowing use of the land for age-restricted (55 and over) housing.

In addition, the developers, Stafford Group LLC, propose extending the town sewer line an additional mile to a proposed pumping station to serve the new community. Existing

homes on the lake side of Wales Road will be able to tie into the line. Research will need to be done to determine that the sewer proposal is acceptable to the state Department of Environmental Protection.

The developers propose donating 108 acres of open space to the town. If approved, 165 homes are slated to be built.

Construction is not expected to begin for two or three years.

Also at the meeting, a disagreement arose between Frassinelli and Bacchiochi about the appropriation of $976,409.50 to New England Infrastructure for the replacement of the bridge on New City Road. Although the winning bid was in the amount listed above, Bacchiochi proposed earmarking an additional $14,000 for the project, for a total of

$990,409.50. Frassinelli questioned the reason for the additional $14,000.

“It’s to cover any unseen contingencies,” Bacchiochi said.

“You always get hit with some unknown costs.”

“Is the state OK with giving them more than was bid?”

Frassinelli asked. “And who will pay the $14,000?”

The project is expected to be reimbursed by the state and federal governments with 80 percent of the cost coming from federal funds and 20 percent from state funds.

“You had four years to work on it and never did a darn thing,” Bacchiochi replied. “OK, we’ll change it back.”

The appropriation was returned to its original amount and unanimously approved.

Slates Chosen for November Municipal Elections in Stafford STAFFORD - The slates have been chosen for the Stafford municipal elections on November 6th.

Former Town Administrator Michael Waugh, a Democrat, is running for first selectman against incumbent Republican Allen Bacchiochi. Democrat Dick Dobson, a former first selectman and current chair of the Board of Finance, will run for a selectman’s seat against current Republican selectman Kathy Prudden. For the first time in several years, selectman and former first selectman Gordon Frassinelli will not seek a

seat on the board. In addition, Democrat Mitchell Muzio is running for the first selectman’s seat as a petitioning candidate.

Other contests will be held for seats on the Board of Finance, with Republicans Paul Adamski, a current alternate on the Planning and Zoning Commission and former member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, and Albert DeNunzio, a former member of the Board of Finance, challenging Democrat Andrew Zelonka. For the Board of Education, incumbent Lisa A. Finch and fellow Republicans Shirley J. Martinsen and Joseph Nugent will

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run against Democratic candidates Mark Fontanella, who is the chair of the board, Sandra Fowler, Lisa Bradway, and Julie Stafford.

Former Planning and Zoning Commission alternate Gene Julian will run for a permanent seat against two current Republican alternate members of the Planning and Zoning Commission, John Gibeault and Richard Shuck. In a controversial move in February, Julian and fellow alternate, Republican Ella Ingraham, were removed from their posts by Bacchiochi and Prudden and replaced by Gibeault and Democrat Francis Benison.

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Regular members of the commission are elected, while alternates are appointed.

Dock Sellers, Republican Town Committee chair, will run to retain his seat on the Board of Assessment Appeals.

Challenging him will be Democrat Erin Kirchoffer. Republican Thomas R. Carter, now an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals, will be challenged by Democrats Thomas Heffron and Richard Gagnon.

Democratic Town Clerk Carol Davis, Treasurer Darlene Dion, and Tax Collector Cheryl Vail are running unopposed.

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Staf for d STAFFORD HAPPENINGS CALENDAR 8/1

Arts Commission Memorial Hall

An Enemy of the People auditions call Allyson at 851-9017

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Pet Show sign up your pet @ (860) 684-28520

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Arts Commission Heritage Park

Summer Concert Mass-Conn Fusion

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Les Julian - singer

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Mary Jane Tynatheis vermiculture/composting

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Nancy Meanswright mystery writer

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Reading Carnival pony rides, juggling, face painting, balloons and more

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Calling all artists! Now is the time to register for AUTUMN IN THE PARK: A CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS. The deadline is Aug. 15.

CONTACT JAN NEWSOME of the Arts Commission at (860) 684-5211.

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High School Honor Roll Announced STAFFORD - Francis Kennedy, Principal of Stafford High School, announced that the following students of Stafford High School have achieved the Honor Roll for the 4th quarter of the 20062007 school year. These students have completed all their class work as of June 12, 2007 and have not received a grade lower than a 77 in any course.

Students who have a 90 average or better have earned High Honors recognition.

Students who have earned an 85 average or better have earned Honors recognition.

Freshman Honors Jennifer Artruc Joshua Baxter Deena Benoit Cassandra Casiano Elizabeth Clark Emily Dwelley Daniel Hobson Jena Huntley Demerise Johnston Sean Kellarson Shawn McDuffee Adam Pallanck Michelle Possardt Monica Ricci Shane Tobey Katie Trinque Sophomore Honors Jason Allen Steven Bachiochi Austin Baker Brittany Brocuglio Bryan Constantino Alicia Dabek

Dallas DeMichael Taylor Everett Nicole Folino Alex Germond Taylor Girard Brittney Greene Joshua Lo Emily Maynard Alexander Moylan Rebecca Okraska Mettie Ostrowski Christian Palmer Vivan Phan Theodore Rummel Junior Honors Britney Blodgett Leeanna Flannery Hannah Hatch David Kies Ryan Morgan Kaitlyn O’Konis Kimberly Robbins Nathan Rossi Cassandra Weed Senior Honors Nicole Collette Heather Coollick Olivia Folker Ryann Garreffa Joshua Ivaldi Alexandra Kritzman Heatheryn Leduke Christopher Lo Justin Nelson Christopher Oski Stephanie Shearer

STUDENTS/page 25

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Staf for d Students Named to Honor Roll (continued from page 24) Sarah Smialek Danielle Woods Freshman High Honors Michael Cormier Ryan Duchane Kevin Lamelin Anna Slupecki Emily Staley Katelyn Summers Carolyn Talbot Michael Tedford Sophomore High Honors Cassandra Boudreau Katherine Bradway Kathleen Bradway Emma Broadhurst Eric Bulakites Crystal Campbell Sydney Everett Lindsay Jacobsen Nicholas Jennings Julia Luksha Matthew Morrison Danielle Nelson Matthew Szymanski Ryan West Christine Xayavoutthy

Junior High Honors Gregory Burns Megan Butler Danielle Millar Jamie Navick Blake Smith Senior High Honors Jeffrey Bachiochi Joshua Berk Matthew Bouthillier Christine Bulakites Stephanie Constantino Stephanie Davis Rebecca Fesko Jamie Fish John Hill Brittany Johnston Char-t Lo Alyssia Lumbra Gregory Machia Leanna Martinsen Susan Melnick Gregory Pallanck Joseph Robertson Heather Safner Nicholas Spencer Karaline Stark

In The ‘Swing’ Of Things A child spins over head on a ride during the final day of the Carnival Against Cancer on July 22 at the Stafford Middle School.

Photo by David Butler II

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August 2007 North Central News

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Regional State’s Largest Ride Has Satellite Start Locations This Year Dream Ride 2007 is set to roll Aug. 26 with a brand new motorcycle satellite start location in Ellington. While many riders will depart from and return to the

John Rosemond to Speak ELLINGTON - The Ellington Drug Abuse Prevention Council (DAPC) will sponsor family psychologist, nationallysyndicated columnist and best selling author, John Rosemond to speak on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30). The topic of Rosemond’s seminar is “Teen Proofing: Fostering Responsible Decision Making in your Pre-teen and Teenager.”

The presentation will take place in the Ellington High School auditorium.

Tickets go on sale Aug. 13 and can be purchased at Ellington Youth Services at 31 Arbor Way or at Ellington parent open houses at Ellington High School (Sept. 6), Windermere Intermediate School (Sept.

10), and Ellington Middle School (Sept.

13).

The price of tickets is $10 for Ellington residents and $15 for all others. Books will be available for purchase and a 30minute book signing session will follow the presentation.

primary destination, The Farmington Club, this year Dream Ride is adding motorcycle satellite start locations so riders can begin their journey from a variety of locations across the state. The TSI Harley-Davidson/Buell on Somers Road is where the ride will begin and it will travel through Ellington, East Windsor, Windsor Locks, East Granby, Avon and Farmington. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at TSI HarleyDavidson/Buell, and the ride is scheduled for a 12 p.m. departure. The participants from this satellite location will be joined by TSI Columbia’s ride and arrive at the Farmington Club around 1 p.m. for afternoon festivities.

Once in Farmington everyone will celebrate Dream Ride 2007 with Special Olympics Connecticut athletes as they gather for live music, a steak and chicken lunch, prizes, a truck pull, motorcycle raffle and more.

The first 500 registered will receive an official Dream Ride 2007 T-shirt and pin set. In addition, each on-line registrant will have the opportunity to be chosen to drive away with a mini-motorcycle. Minimum donation of $30 per driver and $20 per passenger. Dream Ride

2007 is presented by Bozzuto’s Inc., The Hometown Foundation & Crystal Farms.

For more information or to pre-register at the Ellington motorcycle satellite start location contact Norm Leblanc at (860) 875-6663 or visit www.hometownwheels.com. Pre-register online today.

Other motorcycle satellite start locations for 2007 include: Columbia: TSI Columbia Harley Davidson/Buell Bristol:Yankee Harley-Davidson Stratford: Bridgeport HarleyDavidson Groton: Mike’s Famous HarleyDavidson East Hartford: Gengras Motorcycles Danbury: Marcus Dairy Guilford: Guilford Police Department It’s been officially proclaimed “Annual Dream Ride Day” by Governor

M. Jodi Rell and this year Dream Ride 2007 is going to be bigger and better than ever. Join thousands of motorcycle and car enthusiasts as they rev up their engines for this amazing event. Riders will travel across Connecticut ending at The Farmington Club.

Year after year, thousands of participants gather from near and far to celebrate the achievements of Special Olympics Connecticut athletes.

Bozzuto’s Inc. and The Hometown Foundation, Inc. support Dream Ride 2007 to benefit Special Olympics Connecticut. The Dream Ride 2007 mission is to raise much needed funds for the thousands of Special Olympics Connecticut athletes.

Last year’s event raised $60,000 and to date Dream Ride has raised a total of $660,000 for Special Olympics Connecticut.

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Scholars Johnson Memorial Announces Scholarship Recipients STAFFORD - The Johnson Memorial Hospital Medical Staff College Scholarships were awarded this May to high school seniors from five area high schools: Enfield High School, Enrico Fermi High School, Somers High School, Stafford High School and Tolland High School.

The scholarship program was initiated in 2004.

Scholarships in the amount of $1,000 are generally awarded to the one student from each school who receives the highest score based on extensive criteria set by the Medical Staff Scholarship Committee. This year, the Committee received an impressive number of applications from many exemplary and deserving students.

A tie score occurred between two applicants at both Stafford High School and Enrico Fermi High School. As a result, the decision was made to split the $1,000 scholarship between the two most-deserving students from each of these schools.

The 2007 Medical Staff Scholarship Committee was pleased to award scholarships to the following students: Stafford High School: Karaline Stark and Jeffrey Bachiochi Somers High School: John Pantuosco Enfield High School: Joseph Yi Enrico Fermi High School: Brittany Bennett and Jennifer Pelletier Tolland High School: Katherine Carr

Top left, from left: Dr. Eric Meisterling, Medical Staff Scholarship Committee Chairman, presents scholarships to Brittany Bennett and Jennifer Pelletier of Enrico Fermi High School. Middle photo, Dr. Meisterling presents Karaline Stark of Stafford High School with a scholarship. Top right, Dr. Meisterling presents Katherine Carr of Tolland High School with a scholarship. Bottom left, Dr. Steven Urbanski, Chief of Radiology, presents Joseph Yi of Enfield High School with a scholarship. Bottom right, scholarship winners Jeffrey Bachiochi of Stafford High School and John Pantuosco, Somers High School.

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Regional Rell Announces Task Force to Stabilize State Hospitals HARTFORD - Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the members of a task force to develop strategies to stabilize and chart the future course of hospitals in Connecticut, many of which are facing financial hardship.

The Hospital Task Force will hold its first meeting Aug. 8. It will be co-chaired by Robert Genuario, Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, and Cristine Vogel, Commissioner of the Office of Health Care Access. Panel members include state

agency commissioners, legislators, industry representatives and labor leaders, including: Kevin Murphy, CFO of the Eastern Connecticut Health Network (Manchester Memorial Hospital and Rockville General Hospital).

“All of us count on having a hospital available – close by, there when we need it and prepared for almost any kind of medical emergency, day or night,” Rell said. “Yet many of the hospitals in Connecticut are

struggling. Some of the largest hospitals in some of our biggest cities, including Hartford and Waterbury, face serious financial problems, while smaller community hospitals battle daily to attract and retain doctors and nurses and buy the high-tech equipment that modern medicine requires.

“This panel will examine not only the current financial health of Connecticut’s hospitals but residents’ access to care.

Emergency room utilization, affordability and alternative delivery of primary care will all be reviewed. The ‘Certificate of Need’ process – the state permitting process for determining where certain medical services are provided, when hospitals may close or expand and so on – also will be analyzed.”

The Governor said she wants the panel to report its findings by December 31.

The new state budget nearly triples the financial aid offered to the state’s 30 acutecare hospitals, while also giving health care providers their first increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates in 21 years. The twoyear, $36 billion budget signed last month by Governor Rell includes a $30 million appropriation in fiscal 2008 to the state’s Hospital Hardship Fund to help the state’s 30 acutecare hospitals balance their books. The appropriation is almost three times larger than the $11 million available to hospitals in fiscal 2007. Though the fund is commonly

referred to as the “distressed hospital fund,” any of the state’s 30 acute-care hospitals can apply for a grant.

The task force is part of Governor Rell’s broader efforts to ensure that all residents of Connecticut have access to quality, affordable health care. Governor Rell’s Charter Oak Health Plan to bring affordable health coverage to uninsured adults was approved by the General Assembly this year.

“The Charter Oak Health Plan will bring coverage to adults who don’t have medical benefits through work and don’t qualify for a public program such as Medicaid, Medicare or the HUSKY Plan,” Governor Rell said.

“This is an historic first for Connecticut because currently thousands of adults without affordable group coverage are going without health coverage. My new Charter Oak Health Plan will fill that gap in a costeffective way.”

The Charter Oak Health Plan blends reasonable cost for the participant with a “safety net” subsidy for the lowest-income uninsured adults—those who either do not qualify for the HUSKY Plan because they are slightly over-income or because they do not have children, or both. The Plan is funded with $13 million for startup, program and preparation costs over the next two fiscal

ECHN/page 29

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Regional Area Residents Among Latest Class of State Police Troopers MERIDEN - The Connecticut State Police graduated 60 new state troopers, all members of the 118th Training Troop, on July 19, 2007.

Department of Public Safety Commissioner John A. Danaher III and Colonel Thomas Davoren, Commanding Officer of the State Police, congratulated the graduating class during a ceremony at Jorgensen Auditorium at the University of Connecticut. Gov. M. Jodi Rell was the keynote speaker at the event.

The 118th training troop entered the Connecticut State Police Academy in January 2007, and spent approximately 1,400 hours in the classroom. They also

spent many more hours training in physical conditioning, water rescue, driving and other specialized areas of police work.

The 60 members of this class began the process of becoming State Troopers more than a year ago. They applied for the positions, took the written test and physical fitness assessment, along with observational and polygraph tests.

At their graduation, the newest troopers were sworn in by Commissioner Danaher and assigned to one of the 12 State Police troops located throughout Connecticut. These Troopers will increase the ranks of

the Connecticut State Police to 1,236 Troopers.

The following local men and women graduated July 19, 2007: Mathieu Asselin, Enfield, Troop B Daniel Greenwood, Vernon, Troop K Michael Hamel, Vernon, Troop K Sean Mahar, Enfield, Troop K David Misenti, Vernon, Troop H Kevin Pelkey, Enfield, Troop C Christine Shaw, Enfield, Troop H Brianna Tassinari, Enfield, Troop C

ECHN Official On Task Force Connecticut Wood Group’s (continued from page 28) years. The program costs are based on a sliding scale premium assistance plan for enrollees with incomes up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level. The goal is to offer a menu of credible coverage with monthly premiums as low as $75 for lowincome residents and no more than $250 for those with higher incomes.

The Charter Oak Health Plan’s projected start date is now July 2008, pushed back from Governor Rell’s initial target timeframe of fall 2007. Governor Rell has asked DSS Commissioner Starkowski to convene a planning team and begin development of a

request for proposals to the insurance industry nationally with the goal of offering credible, affordable coverage to begin next July.

In December, Governor Rell authorized $2 million for DSS to implement a series of disease management programs designed to help high-risk patients stay out of the hospital. The Governor noted that at least 40 other states have, or are planning, disease management programs for residents with asthma, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and other chronic diseases. Managing such diseases can improve the quality of life of residents, reduce preventable complications and save the health care system the costly services of emergency room visits and hospitalization.

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Business Allied’s Attic Thrift Store To Open in Enfield; Donations Sought ENFIELD - Allied Rehabilitation Centers, Inc., a notfor-profit human service agency at 3 Pearson Way, announced plans to open a thrift store at 581 Enfield St. “Allied’s Attic” is scheduled to open in mid-August, according to Allied President Dean Wern.

Allied is accepting donations of clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, house wares, small appliances, knick knacks, toys, books, videos and DVDs at 3 Pearson Way, across the street from the DMV offices in Enfield. Dropoffs or donations will not be accepted at 581 Enfield St. Donations will be accepted at 3 Pearson Way Mon.-Fri. between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Please, no computers, kitchen appliances or large pieces of furniture. With back-toschool shopping underway, children’s clothing tops the list of needed items. Donors with questions about accept-

able items are asked to call (860) 741-3701. Tax forms are available.

Allied Rehabilitation Centers, a subsidiary of Allied Community Services, Inc., provides services to approximately 275 adults with developmental disabilities, brain injuries and other challenges. Some of these Allied consumers participate in employment training programs and will become paid employees of Allied’s Attic.

“A crew of 12 consumers will eventually be involved with all aspects of the Thrift Store’s operations,” says Allied Consumer Services Supervisor Marisol Suarez.

Marisol and fellow supervisor Karen Zanetti developed plans for the Thrift Store to provide real world employment experience for consumers.

“Our Thrift Store workers will be able to interact with

members of the community, enhance their work skills and increase their self esteem,” Karen adds. She notes that Allied’s Board of Directors approved the Thrift Store plan at its June 28 meeting.

Allied’s Attic will be located across the street from American Legion Post 80 and Dunkin’ Donuts, in space previously occupied by a Salvation Army Thrift Store.

Donors are reminded that thrift store items must be dropped off at 3 Pearson Way in Enfield, across from DMV. Donations and drop-offs will not be accepted at the Enfield Street location, even after it opens for business.

When Allied’s Attic opens, it will operate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and Saturday, with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. “Please watch for announcements of our grand opening,” Marisol said.

Masons Present $2,500 in Scholarships to Grads Composite Lodge # 28, located in Suffield presented scholarships to graduating seniors from Enfield High School, Enrico Fermi High School, East Windsor High School, Suffield High School and Windsor Locks High School. These schools represent the towns that make up the base membership of the Masonic Lodge in North

Central Connecticut. The recipients are: Sydney Grout, Suffield High School; Deborah Starvish, East Windsor High School; Michael Zimmerman, Enfield High School; Brittany Bennett, Enrico Fermi High School; and Danielle Montemerlo, Windsor Locks High School.

At right, Composite Lodge Scholarship Awards Night recipients with Lodge Officers: Front row; Deborah Starvish, Sydney Grout, Michael Zimmerman, Danielle Montemerlo, Brittany Bennett. Second row; Dwight Mertens, Russell Scull, David Slack, John DiCioccio, Jr.

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Home Ground Water Protection Important to More than Just Well Users If you have a household water well, you depend on ground water. If you don’t have a water well, you still depend on ground water in many ways.

Either way, here are some things you should know about ground water from the National Ground Water Association.

Ground water makes up more than 90 percent of the available fresh water in the world. Because it is so widespread, nearly half of Americans rely on ground water, either from private wells or community water systems. Not only that, ground water supplies 58 billion gallons a day for agricultural irrigation. It also feeds 492 billion gallons a day to surface water bodies such as rivers, lakes and streams.

If you own a well, consider getting an annual well maintenance check and water test. Private well owners are responsible for making sure their water supply is safe, so regular maintenance and water testing

for bacteria, nitrates and anything else of local concern is important.

If you don’t own a well, you still have a responsibility to protect ground water.

Improper storage or disposal of hazardous household substances can pollute ground water. These include household cleaners, herbicides, pesticides, antifreeze, fertilizer, paint, paint thinner, oil and other chemicals.

What you dump on the ground, pour down the drain or throw in the trash could end up in the ground water. Store hazardous household substances in secure places using proper containers. If possible, dispose of such substances at hazardous waste drop-off sites.

Use water wisely, whether you own a well or not. There is no shortage of ground water nationally, but demand on a local or regional basis can create water scarcity. It only makes sense not to waste water.

• Fix leaky toilets or faucets to save thousands of gallons of water a year.

• Use water-efficient appliances.

• Use low-flow showerheads and waterefficient toilets.

• Avoid wasting water on the driveway, sidewalk or street when watering outside.

• Run the dishwasher only when it’s full.

• Consider other ways to recycle or conserve water.

To learn more about well maintenance, water testing, ground water protection and conservation, visit the National Ground Water Association’s Web site www.wellowner.org.

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T rom h F e s P i ts e l Ta News From STAFFORD MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Woody Pitkat Double Dips - Wins SK Modified & Late Model Feature Stafford Motor Speedway returned to Friday night racing action with the SK Modified® division taking center stage for the 34th Coors Light SK Modified® 100. Woody Pitkat was the story of the night, first winning the 30-lap Late Model feature, and then taking tires with only 22 laps remaining in the 34th Annual Coors Light SK Modified® 100 to storm through the field and take a second victory of the evening. Alan Provost scored a first career victory in the 20-lap SK Light Modified feature, Sean Foster took down the 20lap Limited Late Model feature, and Matt Chiarizio celebrated his birthday in grand style by scoring his first career win in the 15-lap DARE Stock feature.

The 34th Coors Light SK Modified® 100-lap feature saw Woody Pitkat outduel Stafford’s all-time winningest driver, Ted Christopher, to win the race.

Willie Hardie took the lead from the pole, and he led the first 34 laps before contact with Keith Rocco sent him spinning from the lead. Rocco was black flagged for rough riding, which handed the lead of the race to Ted Christopher. Woody Pitkat took the lead from Christopher on the restart, and Pitkat held the lead until lap-52, when Christopher moved back out front. Pitkat slowly began to lose positions as Christopher began to build a large lead over Eric Berndt, who was now running second. A caution with 79 laps complete erased Christopher’s large lead and brought Pitkat to pit road for fresh tires.

Pitkat then worked his way back through traffic and avoided several wrecks to find himself in third place

behind Christopher for a lap-95 restart. Pitkat moved past Christopher on the restart and then drove away to score the win. Christopher finished second, with Frank Ruocco, Kerry Malone, and Curt Brainard rounding out the top-5.

The 30-lap Late Model feature saw Woody Pitkat drive to his first win of the season in a dominating drive. Ed Ricard led the first three laps before Pitkat took over the top spot on lap-4. Once Pitkat was out front, he slowly began to pull away from the field.

Several cautions slowed the field and erased Pitkat’s lead, but Pitkat would again open up the lead once the race would go back to green flag conditions. Pitkat cruised to victory ahead of Jim Mavlouganes, Tom Fearn, Corey Hutchings, and Dillon Moltz, a 16 yearold driver who scored a top-5 finish in only his third start at Stafford.

The 20-lap SK Light feature saw Alan Provost drive to his first career victory. The race started out with a melee in turn 3 that involved at least 12 cars, including the top-2 cars in the points standings, Chris Matthews and Glen Reen. Josh Sylvester moved to the early lead, and he held the lead until lap-16 when Provost made his move to take over the lead.

Sylvester made several bids to get back by Provost in the closing laps, but Provost was too strong to be overtaken as he scored his first career win. Sylvester finished second, with Aaron Goff, Mark Bakaj, and Raymond Grassetti rounding out the top 5.

The 20-lap Limited Late Model feature came down

to a green white checkered restart with two division heavyweights battling for the win. Sean Foster took the lead early in the race and he held the lead until the caution flew with 19-laps complete, setting up a green white checkered restart. Andrew Durand, the division’s winningest driver this season, was alongside Foster for the restart. The first attempt at the restart saw a melee break out on the backstretch with Jeff Hubbell and Rick Lanagan clapping the wall and Paul Conte climbing over another car. On the restart, Foster took the lead, with Charlie Newman getting past Durand for second. Newman gave chase to Foster on the final lap, but came up short at the checkered flag as Foster scored his second win of the 2007 season. Rounding out the top-5 behind Foster and Newman was Durand, Michael Nadeau, and Hubbell.

The 15-lap DARE Stock feature saw Matt Chiarizio wire the field, leading from green to checkered to score his first career victory. Chiarizio had Jim Brice and Kyle Nosal on his bumper for much of the race, and with two laps to go, the leaders encountered lapped traffic, which gave Brice and Nosal an opportunity to take the lead. But Chiarizio deftly navigated his way through the traffic and came home a winner.

Nosal spun coming to the checkered flag, which allowed Dan Flannery to take second.

Brice finished third, with Vince Gambacorta and Todd LaPorta rounding out the top 5.

This Month At Stafford Motor Speedway: FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2007 WHELEN ALL- AMERICAN SERIES SK Modified® (40), Late Model (30), SK Light (20), Limited Late Model (20), DARE Stock (15) FRIDAY, AUGUST 10, 2007 17th ANNUAL NEW ENGLAND DODGE DEALERS 150 150-lap Whelen Modified Tour Event, SK Modified® (40), Late Model (30), SK Light (20), Limited Late Model (20), DARE Stock (15) FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 2007 WHELEN ALL- AMERICAN SERIES SK Modified® (40), Late Model (30), SK Light (20), Limited Late Model (20), DARE Stock (15)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2007 CONNECTICUT LATE SUMMER MOTORCYCLE SWAP MEET CALL (860) 604-7528 or (860)-978-2861 FOR MORE INFO FRIDAY, AUGUST 24, 2007 WHELEN ALL- AMERICAN SERIES SK Modified® (40), Late Model (30), SK Light (20), Limited Late Model (20), DARE Stock (15) FRIDAY, AUGUST 31, 2007 WHELEN ALL- AMERICAN SERIES SK Modified® (40), Late Model (30), SK Light (20), Limited Late Model (20), DARE Stock (15) + FIREWORKS

For more info, visit www.staffordmotorspeedway.com or call (860) 684-2783 32 North Central News August 2007

ST U M P E R QUESTION: What is the legal, minimum weight for an SK Light Modified vehicle?

Cut out this box and mail your answer to North Central News, ‘STUMPER’, P.O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071 for your chance to win FREE SPEEDWAY TICKETS.

ANSWER:_____________________________ NAME: _______________________________ ADDRESS:_____________________________ ______________________________________ PHONE: ________________________________

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Auto Portable GPS Navigation Systems Moving into Mainstream Are you among the many families asking themselves the same question—where should we go on vacation?

How about Seattle’s world-famous Space Needle, Napa Valley’s wine country or New York’s Empire State Building? All are worthy destinations, but what’s the quickest route? How do you avoid the New Jersey Turnpike in rush-hour traffic? Take the Golden Gate or Bay Bridge to Napa?

Is Seattle’s Pike Place Market near the Space Needle?

With about two-thirds of travelers driving to their destinations in the family car, the need for pinpoint accurate directions and real-time traffic updates from a portable GPS navigator is moving into the mainstream, experts say.

According to research firm Canalys, an estimated 2.9 million portable GPS navigators were sold in the past year. And while the units can’t squeeze any more miles per gallon from your car’s engine,

they can guide you on the most direct— and the most fuel-efficient—route to any address in the U.S. and Canada from wherever you are.

What used to be a niche market, with specialized developers producing complex products, is now wide open, with wellknown consumer electronics companies and even computer manufacturers jumping into the fray.

U.S. retailers saw more than 3 million portable GPS navigators sold in 2006, making it one of the fastestgrowing consumer technology segments, with year-over-year unit sales expanding over 250 percent during the most recent holiday season.

“The portable navigation market is experiencing unprecedented growth,” said Allan Jason, marketing vice president for LG Electronics USA, Inc., one of the leading major consumer electronics companies now offering portable GPS navigators.

“Increased competition is leading to more

While GPS units can’t squeeze any more miles per gallon from your engine, they can guide you on the most fuel-efficient route to any address in the U.S. and Canada from wherever you are.

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Location: 8 Egypt Rd., Somers (next to Fairgrounds) • Hours: Mon-Fri, 9-6, Sat. 10-4 August 2007 North Central News

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* The BOLLES FAMILY would like to thank the readers of the North Central News for voting * BOLLES MOTORS the BEST NEW CAR DEALER for 3 years in a row!

Sale ends August 15, 2007.

34 North Central News August 2007

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Auto Size, Price Could Make LR2 Most Popular Land Rover Ever The new 2008 LR2, on sale since May, proves bigger isn’t always better. The folks at Land Rover will shudder when they read this, but they’ve created a vehicle along the lines of the Hummer H3: a small, true-tothe-brand version of its bigger siblings that could end up ruling the roost. Expect to see a lot more LR2s on the road than its stable mates the LR3, the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.

The latter three are great vehicles and it would be pleasing to have any of them in the driveway. The LR2 is the one, though, that feels attainable with a base price of $33,985. It’s a Land Rover for the masses.

OK, maybe not for the masses, but for the near affluent who want to be OCAL part of this exclusive brand without feeling like they’ve had to swallow their pride to become an owner. Does anybody remember the Cadillac Cimarron?

The LR2 might feel pokey to some with its inline-six cylinder engine that produces only 230 horsepower. (Land Rover says its 0-60 time is 8.4 seconds.) However it more than met any challenge thrown at it in the week I drove a model loaned to me by Land Rover. The six-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts. I never once felt the urge to engage the manual shifting option. There is also a driver-selectable sport mode, for livelier performance.

Fuel economy is pretty good for a vehicle this size (4255 lbs.). For a two-week period, the LR2 averaged 19.9 miles per gallon with a mixture of city and highway driving. The EPA estimates, using the new 2008 guidelines, are 16 city and 23 highway for an average of 18 mpg.

The LR2 drives extremely well. It still has some pitch and body roll in tight cornering, but it’s a fine daily driver. It comes equipped with roll stability control, which helps reduce the risk of rollover in even extreme conditions. At 68.5 inches, it’s a bit on the tall side. It was, however, easy to exit and enter but I am 6’1”.

L

As a homeowner involved in recent gardening projects, I especially appreciated its 26.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up. With them folded, the space grows to 58.9 cubic feet. The rear seat splits 60/40, which came in handy for hauling some longer items. The LR2 has the first rear seats I’ve experienced that allowed the 60 percent side to fold with my daughter’s car seat in place. And, no, I was not hauling lumber with her strapped in.

The only thing I didn’t like about the rear cargo area was the shade that had to be removed for the optimal storage space.

Manufacturers need to come up with a cargo shade that can be incorOTION porated into the rear seats so there is no need to fiddle with a bar.

Land Rover deserves praise for its reversible load floor cover with carpet on one side and a water-resistant surface on the other. Of course, I discovered this feature after a bag of mulch broke open and edging stones left their expected layer on stone dust in the cargo area. The LR2 did respond well to a car wash vacuum and looked almost as good as new when cleaned.

Human cargo space is decent. Land Rover, like other manufacturers, says this vehicle can comfortably carry five adults.

Four would be more comfortable. There’s lots of room upfront for the driver.

One aspect of the LR2 I could live without is the ignition. It requires putting the key into a slot that is obscured by the steering wheel and then pushing a starter button. The same button must also be pushed to stop the vehicle. The key must be pushed in just so or it will kick back. It’s a temperamental bit of technology that is unnecessary. I may be the first to lump together Larry the Cable Guy and Land Rover in the same article, but ignitions should be designed to “Git-R-Done”.

Nobody wants to think when starting a vehicle. People just want to hop in and go.

M

Keith Griffin

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The 2008 Land Rover LR2 handles well both on and off road.

Minor brickbats aside, the LR2 does have a lot of safety features, including power-assisted four-wheel ventilated disc brakes; four-channel, all-terrain ABS; electronic brakeforce distribution; emergency brake assist; cornering brake control; active roll mitigation; and hill descent control. The LR2 also has a seven-airbag, supplemental restraint system, which includes a driver’s knee airbag.

As mentioned, the LR2 has a base price of $33,985 (plus a delivery charge of $715). The model tested came in at $39,950 with bells and whistles like a DVD-based navigation system, surround sound stereo, satellite radio, bi-xenon headlights, adaptive front lighting and memory driver seat and mirrors. It’s possible to live with out all of those features.

Most can be bought for less money as

aftermarket equipment, too.

(Questions and comments about this review and other automotive concerns can be e-mailed to cars@keithgriffin.com. All queries are answered.)

VITAL STATISTICS Wheelbase: 104.7 inches Length: 177.1 inches Width: 85.7 inches (with mirrors) Height: 68.5 inches Curb weight: 4255 lbs.

Engine: 3.2-liter, inline six Horsepower: 230 at 6300 rpm Torque: 234 lb. ft.

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Spor ts Award Proves That Nice Girls Don’t Always Finish Last Nice guys finish last. world.

Nice girls do way, way better than that.

Wilcox wasn’t completely sure, but he A perfect case in point is the group of believed this was the first Junior team from fifth- and sixth-graders who earned the Somers ever to win the sportsmanship Sportsmanship Award at the 22nd annual award in the 22 years of the Bowers Paul Bowers Memorial Lacrosse Tournament. He knew these young ladies Tournament on June 3 in Somers. had the recipe to create something special This doesn’t seem like that big a deal at too. first glance. A team received a bit of spe“What made this group of girls special cial recognition at a one-day event. So is that they’re a close-knit group,� Wilcox what? This kind of thing hapsaid. “The team chemistry was pens everywhere, in all sports. exceptional.�

A closer look at the numIn that same all-for-one Fielder’s bers, however, shows that spirit, in which each player this wasn’t just another hoequal recognition, CHOICE deserves hum honor that barely causes here is the Somers roster: an eyebrow to be raised.

Lauren Buettner, Melody According to Brian Wilcox, Bych, Briana Daigle, Linda who, along with Cynthia D’Amato, Melissa Gallerani,

BY MARK MANCINI Mike, coached the Somers Samantha Gay, Christyn Junior Division team that Kulas, Micaela Leaska, earned the award, about 25 Junior girls Victoria Smith, Lindsay Socha, Kristen teams took part in the tournament. That Steidler, Elizabeth Suschana, Emily Teel, means Somers really had to stand out in and Brianna Wilcox. the eyes of the officials who made the These girls taught the other teams a lesfinal determination as to which team son, and did so in the most admirable way should earn special recognition for its possible. sportsmanship.

LITTLE LEAGUE, BIG HEARTS Because the tournament stresses fair The Ellington Little League All-Star and respectful play, the teams that ended up earning the sportsmanship award at team wasn’t content with vanquishing the each of the three levels (Bantam, Junior, field in District 8 play in July. It took its and Senior) were every bit as successful as winning act on the road and nearly came the teams that went home at the end of the home with a berth in the state finals.

Ellington, managed by Jeff Dounouk, long Sunday with the best records.

The award also takes on an added luster dropped a 3-2 decision to the Newington when it’s compared to what is seen on a National League in the championship daily basis in the world of professional game of the state Section 2 finals on July sports. None of these girls from Somers 24. Trailing 3-0 with one out and no one allegedly took bribes to fix games. No one on base in the sixth and final inning, got on her bike and pedaled home as Ellington used a Justin Dionne single, a quickly as possible to allegedly participate Matt Anderson triple, and a Neal Janiga in despicable dog fighting activities. No single to cut Newington’s lead to 3-2. A one tried to purposely injure an opponent lineout ended the comeback, but didn’t take away from the accomplishments of a who was lying helplessly on the ground.

Pardon the sap, but here’s a hooray for team that caught the attention of the rest of the state with its ability to rally in heartwholesomeness.

All things considered, we don’t hear stopping fashion over and over again to get nearly enough about this side of the sports as far as it did.

Bottom row, from left, Samantha Gay, Briana Diagle, Victoria Smith, Micalea Leaska, and Kristen Steidler. Top row, from left, Coach Cynthia Mike, Melody Bych, Elizabeth Suschana, Lauren Buettner, Brianna Wilcox, Lindsey Socha, and Coach Brian Wilcox Also receiving the award were Linda D’Amato, Marisa Gallerani, Christyn Kulas, and Emily Teel.

$ID YOU PAY TOO MUCH FOR YOUR SHIRTS 7ONDERING IF YOUR BUSINESS SPORTS TEAM OR CIVIC ORGANIZATION COULD GET A BETTER DEAL ON YOUR SHIRTS HATS

SWEATSHIRTS AND OTHER SCREENPRINTED AND EMBROIDERED APPAREL 4HE ANSWER IS JUST A QUICK PHONE CALL OR MOUSECLICK AWAY

E.G.C. Golf Cart Sales 125 West Rd., (Rt. 83) Ellington, CT 06029 (860) 872-9574

Visit our new golf cart showroom located at Ellington Golf Center.

Many Models to choose from Standard Carts, Four Seaters and Utility Vehicles Free Delivery within 35 miles of our location Electric and Gas Models Available We service many local Camp Ground and Adult Communities

&OR A FREE

NO OBILIGATION QUOTE CALL OR E MAIL FRONTLINESCREENS COX NET &RONTLINE 3CREENPRINTING %MBROIDERY IS DETAIL ORIENTED DEADLINE SENSITIVE AND LOCAL "UT SINCE WE BUY IN BULK AND HAVE LITTLE OVERHEAD WE OFFER THE LOWEST PRICES AVAILABLE AND 3!6% 9/5 -/.%9 TODAY August 2007 North Central News

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Classifieds OLD LYME BEACH RENTAL LAST MINUTE VACATION! 3-bedroom available week of Aug. 11-18, then monthly rates throughout the rest of the year. Mere steps to the beach sand, minutes to Mystic, Essex, Casinos & more. Call (860) 7981551 for availability, pricing and/or to have photos e-mailed.

‘Fixer Upper’ Home Wanted WILL PAY CASH and work direct with owner - no realtors needed in this equation.

AVOID FORECLOSURE!

Call (860) 729-8198

Registered Investment Advisor

Kent D. Zahner, CPA

Investment Advisor Representatives Stuart E. Magdefrau, CPA, PFS

Do You Know: diversified? affect your portfolio?

Is your portfolio 1)1)How “A� share mutualreally fund commissions active and passive investing? difference between 2)2)OfThe the current shift to fee-only advisors? pros and cons an of annuities?

3)3)OfThe the benefits of doing IRA rollover from your old employer?

4)4)How to register a stock certificate?

How "A" share mutual fund commissions affect your portfolio?

5)5)That ultimately, profits drive Wall Street?

The benefitscorporate of a "fee-only" investment advisor?

To discuss the above (no obligation), call 875-5753. If you would prefer, please e-mail keynotefinancial@snet.net for an informational package.

Locally managed Individual Portfolios; Trusts; SEP, Simple, Rollover & Roth IRA's

7 Keynote Drive, Vernon, Connecticut 06066 • (860) 875-5753

JEWELRY BY JOAN Jewelry Custom Made or In-Stock • Bali Sterling Silver and Swarovski Crystal • Earrings, Bracelets and Necklaces Prices $10- $60.

Call Joan anytime:

860-558-2432 See what having a petsitter can mean for you and your pets!

For Vacation, Work, Travel...

Anytime!

Pet Sitting & Dog Walking E-MAIL: Gone2thedogs24@cox.net PHONE: (860) 670-5611 WEBSITE: www.allpawspetsitting.org

ENFIELD TAXI To and from ALL Northeast Airports and to & from Trains, docks, cities, colleges and CASINOS. Serving the professional with clean, reliable, ON-TIME, Taxi service.

ENFIELD TAXI: For information, reservations and rates, please call Bob Faucher @ 860-796-3335 or 860-745-3000 Most major credit cards accepted. Reservations highly recommended.

/65.&( '650/ ."553&44 Q U A L I T Y C U S T O M B E D D I N G B U I LT I N B L O O M F I E L D , C T

³:KROHVDOH 3ULFHV (YHU\GD\´

7ZR 6LGHV $UH %HWWHU 7KDQ 2QH 6LQJOH RU 'RXEOH 6LGHG %HGGLQJ $YDLODEOH

139 West Dudley Town Road BloomďŹ eld, CT 06002 Mon. - Fri. 10am - 5pm Sat. 9am - 1pm Sun. Closed

$ :LGH 6HOHFWLRQ RI %HGGLQJ )XWRQV DQG %HGURRP )XUQLWXUH Delivery and Old Bedding Removal at No Charge

8 6 0 - 2 4 2 - 6 6 2 7

MRM Landscaping Materials 60 Adams Street Manchester, CT 06040

(860)268-0905 646-8076 (860) Fax: (860) 646-2756

38 North Central News August 2007

• Top Soil • Stone • Recycled Process • Trucking • Lowbed Service • Crushing • Screening • Dozer • Fill • Stump Removal • Sand & Salt

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Classifieds Colonial Landscaping Lawn Care • Aerating • Pruning • Rototilling • Spring & Fall Clean-up Vincent Carra Tim Sheehan

(860) 305-7524

AUTO INSURANCE Real Good Rates!

Call Mike DaDalt at Tolland County Insurance.

WALLS BY VICTORIA Custom Paint and Wallpapering Faux finishes, murals, raised plaster design, cabinetry or a simple re-paint/re-paper.

Enjoy the SUMMER SEASON with a NEW LOOK! Complimentary estimates.

References - Insured.

(860) 749-2603

The Comfort of Home A Caring Hand provides in-home care so that you or your loved one can enjoy the comfort of home for as long as possible.

64 Field Rd., Unit 2B Phone: 763-ISEE (4733) Emergency: 716-2020 E: somersvision@hotmail.com Website: somersnow.com (business) OPEN: Monday through Saturday

ALTERATIONS Zippers, jackets, jeans, hems, pants, skirts, sleeves.

Mending & repairs. In Somers, call ADRIENNE

(860) 763-1908.

The North Central News Classified Section BOXED: $24.95 Classified, Up to 30 words: $19.95 (Prices Based On One Insertion Per Issue) TEXT ONLY! (10 cents each additional word)

MAIL TO: North Central News, P.O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071 (Deadline for Sept. Issue - Aug. 24) Your Name:

Services include: • Companions • Homemaker services • Personal care assistance • Live in companions Specializing in: • assistance with medication reminders • bathing • dressing • errands • grocery shopping • hair care • light housekeeping • laundry • meal planning and preparation • socialization • transportation to doctors, shopping or recreation

SOMERS VISION Northfield Commons

684-2566

’

STEVEN SQUILLACE, OD

Address:

Phone Number: Amount Enclosed:

(Make checks payable to: North Central News)

Classified:

45 Hartford Turnpike, Suite 3 I Vernon, CT 06066

860-643-1623 I 877-643-1986 acaringhand.com

August 2007 North Central News

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Remember when?

Gas cost $1.60 a gallon?

All this week Kloter Farms is taking you back to more affordable times with

2001 PRICING ON SHEDS & GARAGES!* VISIT www.kloterfarms.com

OLD-FASHIONED QUALIT Y, E! VALUE & SERVIC

FOR 2001 PRICING & GET THE SAVINGS NOW!

Pricing From

6 YEARS AGO !

FREE DELIVERY IN CT, MA, RI Extra charge for Cape Cod, MA

ALL CUPOLAS & WEATHERVANES

15-20% OFF! Over 40 styles of weathervanes available!

View selection online www.kloterfarms.com

PATIO FURNITURE CLEARANCE SALE! 12x20 Vinyl Cape Garage

Wicker, picnic tables, rockers & much more now

20-40% OFF!

»

Reg. $6315 SALE $4995

YOUR CHOICE $ 2995 10x16 T-1-11 Poolside Shed

through Aug. 13

with arch trim & E windows

Reg. $3615 SALE $2995

ALL GAZEBOS NOW 25% OFF!

10x16 Vinyl Cape Shed Reg. $4205 SALE $2995

12’ PT Majestic Gazebo Includes CWF, WF screens, prewire Reg. $5476

SALE $3995

Never Undersold!

12x24 T-1-11 Dutch Garage

YOUR CHOICE $ 4995

»

Tastes have changed. And so have we.

Step into our newly remodeled store to see the interesting update to our furniture!

through Aug. 13

with double door upgrade & E windows

Reg. $6250 SALE $4995

Conestoga PG5 Playscape Reg. $2270 SALE $1995 ALL PLAYSCAPES 10% OFF PLUS FREE DELIVERY & SET-UP! 15 Playscapes on display to “test-drive”!

Free Delivery in CT, MA & RI!

$1500 minimum requirements, extra charge for Cape Cod, MA

*2001 Pricing does not apply to Garden Series or Elite buildings.

SHOP ONLINE

www.kloterfarms.com Mon-Sat 8am-5pm • Tues & Thurs 8am-7pm

Quality is the foundation on which we build.

40 North Central News August 2007

860 871-1048 • 800 BUY-FINE

Corner of Rte 83/286, Ellington, CT From Hartford/Springfield: 91 (exit 45), 140E, 83S From Sturbridge: 84W (exit 67), 31N, 74W, 83N

Sale ends 8/25/07