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FREE Guide INSIDE!

A big change for some, not so much for others North Central towns post varied results in election By Laura Hayden November election results in North Central Connecticut seemed to be one of extremes. Some towns like Enfield and Suffield experienced great change in their political profile — and others not so much.

Get into the giving spirit Connecticut State Police Troop C in Tolland is collecting food donations for those in need during the holiday season. This will later turn into the annual toy drive, but for now the drive is looking for nonperishable food items you may be willing to donate. Photo courtesy of Connecticut State Police

Enfield: A significant reversal occurred in Enfield where, for the first time in 14 years, a Democrat majority was elected to the Town Council. Within a week after Election Day four Democrat newcomers joined three party incumbents at the swearing-in ceremony preceding the first council meeting of the new session. In so doing, the former Republican stronghold held for the past two years was flipped to a Democrat 7-4 majority. Democrats also took control of the 2021-22 Board of Education with a 5-4 majority. As a first order of business the new Town Council appointed Bob Cressotti mayor and Councilwoman Gina Cekala

deputy mayor, both via a unanimous vote by the council. “A challenge that we will face is for the council to work together as a bipartisan group for the betterment of Enfield,” Cressotti told the North Central News. “the most pressing issue that our council faces is the rescinding of the ordinance banning adult cannabis businesses in town,” Cressotti said, noting a position he maintained during the campaign concerning the prohibitive stance the previous council pushed through, even as public opinion at a council meeting and on social media did not support banning the businesses. Former Mayor Mike Ludwick, who was reelected to the council, did not reply to the NCN for comment. Cressotti also prioritized “looking for ways to reduce the town debt and finding economic solutions to benefit the town” at the start of his administration.

ELECTION/page 29

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Santa Claus is coming to town — all around region By Laura Hayden There’s no shortage of Santa visits in the North Central News area this December. Santa is checking his list, and you should check the list below to find out when the jolly fellow is planning an appearance at a venue near you. Or to have breakfast with the North Pole’s most famous resident, see The Starting Gate advertisement in this issue, page 24! Somers Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Somers Common (Town Green) 19 Battle St., Somers Dec. 3, 6:45 p.m., event starts at 5:30 p.m. Santa will enter the holiday festivities at 6:45 p.m. on a fire truck to light the town Christmas tree. His arrival will be preceded by a performance by the Somers High School Honors Choir and a Girl Scout carol sing. Afterwards the Connecticut Yuletide Carolers and Shoreline Ringers will perform, followed

by an 8 p.m. reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Renata Bowers. Ellington Winterfest 2021 Ellington Town Green Main/Maple Street Dec. 4, 4:15 pm Santa will arrive on the Town Green during outdoor events starting at 4:15, to include music, a visit from Santa and the lighting of trees. The festivities all culminate in the Torchlight Parade at 5:15 pm. Enfield Torchlight Parade and Carol Sing Dec. 5, 7 p.m. The parade begins at 6 p.m. at the Enfield Street School and ends at the Town Green. The Carol Sing follows at 7 p.m. in front of the Town Gazebo, along with the tree lighting and Santa’s arrival.

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Santa Claus, led by Rudloph, arrives at the 2018 Stafford Winterfest. Photo by Jacqueline Sidor Warehouse Point Library 107 Main St. East Windsor Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m. You must register your 2- to 10-year-old child for one of the four half-hour time slots in which Santa will be at the library. Register at warehousepointlibrary.info. Stafford Library 10 Levinthal Run Stafford Dec. 7, 6-8 p.m. Space is limited; register at staffordlibrary.org. New England Air Museum 36 Perimeter Road (off Route 75) Windsor Locks Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jolly Saint Nick will make an appearance at the NEAM on the final day of the Toys for Tots Drive and the museum’s very first Ugly Sweater Contest. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for area youth in need. For the

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Santa has a busy schedule throughout the region (continued from page 5) For the cost of a museum admission ticket you’ll have the opportunity to get a selfie with Santa in his helicopter and compete to win a fight crew membership as well as talk with him in a safe environment. Connecticut Trolley Museum 68 North Road East Windsor Dec. 11 and 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Two Storytime Trolley with Santa and Elf events invite visitors to ride in a decorated vintage trolley where Santa will visit each child. Also on board, Santa’s elf will read a holiday story and each child will complete a holiday craft. Following the ride, guests will head to the Visitors Center which has been transformed into a Winter Wonderand with multiple model train layouts and lights galore. Ticket prices: $25 all ages (nonmembers)/ $12.50 (members). Tickets must be purchased in advance at ct.trolley.org. There will be no ticket sales on the day of the event. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your selected departure time. Tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.

Stafford WinterFest Downtown Stafford (Main Street) Dec. 11, 3-7 p.m. (inclement weather date Dec. 12) This festive tradition features visits with Santa, performances, a bonfire, food trucks, the Parade of Lights and hundreds of luminaries throughout Main Street. Enfield Square Santa Visits 90 Elm St. Enfield Throughout December Santa will be available to visit through Christmas Eve. Hours of availability vary: Dec. 3: noon-7 p.m.; Dec. 4: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sundays until Christmas: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 6-8 and 13-15: 2 -7 p.m.; Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday Dec. 20-22: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays until Christmas Eve: 10 a.m.- 8 p.m.; Dec. 24: 10 a.m. -4 p.m. Windsor Lions Club Santa Visit Fundraiser Santa will make stops in Windsor Locks with his helpers, candy canes and holiday cheer. Times are limited. Reserve a spot early. As this is a fundraiser, donation are accepted. To arrange a visit from Santa call Dawn Sopelak at 860-2928614 or email jdsopelak@sbcglobal.net.

6 North Central News December 2021

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Mass. governor opens Bright Nights Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, with Santa, became the first governor to make an official visit to Springfield’s holiday event, now in its 27th season, when it opened on Nov. 24. For more information about the Spirit of Springfield and Bright Nights at Forest Park, visit www.brightnights.org.

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Holiday fun is headed down the tracks at CT Trolley Museum EAST WINDSOR — The Connecticut Trolley Museum has several holiday-themed events planned. Winterfest and “Tunnel of Lights” Winterfest 2021 and the “Tunnel of Lights” take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through Dec. 19. Additionally the Museum will be open Dec. 26 through Dec. 30. Winterfest and the “Tunnel of Lights” is celebrating its 43rd year as a family holiday tradition. Halls are decked inside and outside with over 15,000 lights. Trolley cars transport guests down a tunnel of lights as they sing Christmas carols with their trolley car operators. For an open-air view of the “Tunnel of Lights,” one open sleigh car is lit up with holiday lights. Inside, the Visitor Center is deco-

rated like a Winter Wonderland with multiple model train layouts and lights galore. Admission prices are $15-$20 per person. Ticket purchases must be made in advance at www.ct-trolley.org. Museum members receive half off admission. Storytime Trolley with Santa & Elf Storytime Trolley with Santa & Elf takes place Dec. 11 and 12. Visitors will ride in a decorated vintage trolley car where Santa will visit with each child. Also, Santa’s elf will read a holiday story and each child will complete a holiday craft. The cost is $25 for any age. Ticket purchases must be made in advance at www.ct-trolley.org. Holiday Centerpiece Workshop Holiday Centerpiece Workshop takes place in the visitor center Dec. 15. from 6 to 8 p.m. Broad Brook Gardens will be

P. O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071 Phone: 860.698.0020

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The Connecticut Trolley Museum held a Santa photo opportunity with portaits taken by Marc Glucksman of River Rail Photo on Nov. 26. Photo courtesy of Marc Glucksman, River Rail Photo demonstrating how to build the centerpiece and all supplies are included in the cost. Cost is $45. Registration must be made in advance at www.ct-trolley.org

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

Gary Carra Assistant T o T he Publisher

Jen Phillips Account Executives

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Joshua Torres Publishers Policy Information presented in the North Central News is presented for your consideration and does not necessarily represent 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.

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Six Flags hosts a Holiday in the Park AGAWAM, Mass. — Six Flags New England will welcome back Holiday in the Park Lights and a Holiday in the Park Drive-Thru Experience for the 2021 season. Both of these events began operating Nov. 26, and will continue through Jan. 2, 2022. Guests will be able to select their ideal holiday experience, choosing between an immersive walkthru that includes family rides on weekends, or a festive light display drive-thru on weekdays. Holiday in the Park Lights is a walk-thru event that made its debut in 2020. This holiday atraction features immersive light displays and a host of children’s rides. For the 2021 season, the park will offer even more lights, new, larger-than-life décor, and a free holiday candy trail for children 12 and under. There will be festive shows, memorable characters, and Santa Claus. Holiday in the Park Lights

will be free to all members and season pass holders, with discounted day-tickets available at sixflags.com/newengland. The Holiday in the Park Lights Drive-Thru Experience will showcase a drive-thru to the festive sounds of the holiday. Families will experience over a million lights, enchanting theming and immersive light canopies. Interact with Mrs. Claus, Sprinkle, Krystal, Tinsel, Elves and other characters throughout the property. Cars will wind through themed zones, including Sugar Plum Place, Polar Playland, Jingle Bell Junction, Wonderland Way, and Kringle Lane featuring a holiday tree over 50 feet tall. The Holiday in the Park Drive-Thru Experience also is free to all members and season pass holders, with discounted day-tickets available at sixflags.com/newengland.

Six Flags New England features both walk-thru and drivethru events this holiday season. Photo courtesy of Six Flags New England

Holiday Activities Abound at The Ellington Library this December Christmas Ornament Workshop ELLINGTON - Hall Memorial Library, in Ellington, is holding its annual ornament workshop for kids, ages 3 to 12, on Saturday, Dec. 4. During the workshop, children will be making four Christmas ornaments that they can take home to use for the holidays. This year there will be five different sessions offered. Participants choose the one that best fits your family’s schedule. Free tickets are available for one of the following sessions: 10-10:30; a.m. 10:40-11:10 a.m.; 11:20-11:50 a.m.; noon-12:30 p.m.; and 12:40-1:10 p.m.. Masks must be worn. All library programs are open to the public. For more information call the library at 860-870-3160. Cooking Decorating with Food Explorers ELLINGTON - Saturday, Dec. 11 from 10:30-11:30 a.m., Food Explorers will present “Holiday Cookie Decorating” at the Hall Memorial Library. Kids ages 5 to 12,

will frost and decorate their own holiday cookies with a very special twist. They will color their frosting with fruits. Online registration is required for this event and will begin Dec. 1. Go to the library web site: www.library.ellington-ct.gov and then to the “event calendar” to register. Space is limited and masks are required. This program is nut free, but will contain dairy and/or eggs. All children’s programs are free and open to the public. Read-To-The-Dogs Dec. 18 ELLINGTON - The Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs will return to the Hall Memorial Library on Saturday, Dec. 18, from 10:30-11:30 a.m.. These specially trained dogs are always friendly and are just waiting for you to read them a favorite story or the chapter of a favorite book. Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome to participate. Please register online for this event at: www.library.ellington-ct.gov and remember to wear your mask.

Wishing Everyone a Safe, Healthy, Happy New Year!!! 8 North Central News December 2021

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Holiday Light Fantasia returns to Goodwin Park for the holidays. Photo courtesy of Holiday Light Fantasia

HARTFORD — Holiday Light Fantasia is back at Goodwin Park for the 2021 season. This extensive holiday light production, a fundraiser for the Channel 3 Kids Camp, opened on Thanksgiving and continues though Jan. 2, 2022. A collection of over 1 million lights is situated along a nearly 2 drive through Goodwin Park at 1130 Maple Ave., on the Hartford/Wethersfield line. Whimsical holiday sights, familiar characters, and local tributes shine bright in over 200 individual displays. The lighted animations celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah, New Year’s, and Three Kings Day. “Holiday Light Fantasia is our single largest fundraiser of the year, and we

are so excited to bring some holiday cheer to the community along with a handful of new displays this year,” said David Meizels, executive director of the Channel 3 Kids Camp. “There is no better way to kick off the season than to join us while supporting the camp’s mission of providing year-round opportunities to children and families across the state.” This drive-thru display is open from 5 to 10 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays. Tickets are $16 per car online, $20 at the gate. For details or to purchase tickets, visit holidaylightfantasia.org. or call the Channel 3 Kids Camp at 860-742CAMP(2267).

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East Windsor HONOR ROLL EAST WINDSOR — The following students have been named to the East Windsor Middle School honor roll for the first quarter. Grade 8 High honors Ryan Berry, Caleb Cresenzi, Peter Davis, Willard Davis, Katelyn Duncan, Thomas Ferrick, Ella Marschall, Timothy Mehan, Elizabeth Romel, Thomas Romel. Honors Evan Bober, Joshua Halpin, Braydon Natitus, Riley Piechota, Janalis Quinones, Janiah Ramos, Kaitlyn Rouleau, Vance Ruff, Allison Taylor, Nolan VanGasbeck. Grade 7 High honors Isabella Scheuermann, William Towers, Cameron Trull. Honors Urijah Antonelli, Alyvia Arnett, Sibbie Bacigalupo, Isabelle Bancroft, Jainil Bhatt, Landon Boice, Gavin Carabase, Miranda Cloutier, Johnathan Corsetti, Jaden Davis, Athalia Decker, William

Diaz, Isabella Graham, Niko Hernandez, Josiah Herrera, Cooper King, Madeline Knisley, Chevy Koehler, Jace Kusy, Lukas LaBelle, Cody Lentner, Malakhi Leuzzi, Logan Lovell-Wohl, Laila-Jasmine Lunsford, Cassidy Miller, Nadia Mohammed, Cayla Pearson, Yadiel Tasayco, Ian Thompson, David Wojicik. Grade 6 High honors Thomas Bloznalis, Gianna Hutchins, Kassie Keyes, Giuliana Lagana, Janiyah Mathews, Jalexis Mercado, Wyatt Temple, Anna Whetton. Honors Aalieyha Askew, Maxwell Betancourt, Dejnae Bird, Jacob Burnham, Ava Carr, Sara Daigle , John Fahey, William Ferrick, Sadie Gagnon, Isaac Gonzalez, Skyla Gonzalez, Ramphy Hernandez, Kidest Kassa, Kylie Keyes, Kelly LemusHerrera, Skylar Leone, Julius Muhumuza, Jason Neill, Dorian Ribeiro, Francis Scheueermann, Gianna Sigleski, Kirk Taylor, Ava Wark, Ava Young. Grade 5 High honors Lauren Berry, William Braman,

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Blake Castor, Mikaela Diaz-Martinez, Madison Griffin, Ryan Hernandez, Victoria Hutchins, Kendall Johns, Sreethan Kolla, Serenity Leuzzi-Moore, Peter Owens, Jameson Parent, Collin Raymond, Thirunavuka Sivaganesh, Lorelai Standish, Micah Vong. Honors Kylie Bartholomew, Mia Boice, Kendall Boulay, Liam Briggs, Landon Burke, Madeline Burnham, Amora Cazarez, Christopher Clark, AnaMarlene Davis, Ruth Decker, Natalie Decker, Benjamin Ferrick, Riley FryLoomis, Christopher Godin, Alexianna Guilbe, Giana Guzie, Ryan Hallett, Riley Hernandez, Chloe Howell, Manuel Jacques, Beniam Kassa, Abigail King, Emily Kolodziej, Brittney McCarthy, Tierney Mehan, David Moran, John Moran, Maya Muir, Annalai Navaroli, Elyse Nordell, Jacob Provost, Isabella Rosales, Kaelyn Spooner, Nylah Taylor, Lacey-Jean Temple, Delaney Temple, James Thompson, Darius Turcin, Natalie VanGasbeck, Victoria Vazquez, Jordan Venti.

Town begins revaluation process EAST WINDSOR — The town has selected Vision Government Solutions to assist with the statutorily mandated 2022 revaluation. Vision’s Appraisal division will be working closely with the Assessing Department to make the process successful for the town. The last statistical update was completed in 2012 and a full inspection revaluation was done in 2017. Connecticut state law requires towns to revalue every five years. A revaluation will determine the fair market value of every property in town and equalizes the values of all properties for the purpose of a fair distribution of the tax burden. More information is available under the “Assessor” tab at www.eastwindsor-ct.gov.

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Both our Ellington and Tolland stands will remain open until just before Christmas… For all your holiday needs, we will have a nice selection of apples, winter vegetables, cider, Ct made pies and breads, maple products, and honey. Also our delicious in store made apple cider donuts and many other delicious goodies. We will also have a huge selection of Christmas trees, wreaths, kissing balls and winter logs. Gift certificates are also available as well as many unique gift items. Holiday Stand Hours: 9-5 Daily (closed if severe weather

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East Windsor Late fall scenes in Broad Brook A colorful mural adorns the side of the Broad Brook Opera House, at left, while a goose, below, finds some food as other geese make their way across Broad Brook Pond last month. Photos by Joshua Esan

SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS businesses, and that they have benefited from the support of town officials to grow their business. You can learn more about Maine Fish Market at: https://mainefishmarket.com Address: 60 Bridge St., Warehouse Point, East Windsor, CT 06088. Phone: 860-623-2281. Email: MAINEFISHMARKET@ YAHOO.COM Hours: Monday, closed; TuesdayThursday, 11 a.m.- 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, noon-8 p.m.

Send Your News: northcentralnews@aol.com

December 2021 North Central News

Maine Fish Market The Town of East Windsor recognizes local businesses: Maine Fish Market is a multigenerational family-owned business in East Windsor that has grown and flourished in East Windsor over the decades. The restaurant started with just five tables and has now grown to have seen several additions to the building. It employs 65 employees, with room to add more people to their team. Owner Nick Vamvilis notes that there is a real value in supporting local

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Ellington

Ornament workshop Hall Memorial Library is holding its annual ornament workshop for ages 3 to 12 on Dec. 4. During the workshop, children will be making four Christmas ornaments that they can take home to use for the holidays. There will be five different sessions offered. Free tickets are available for one of the following sessions: 10:0010:30; 10:40-11:10; 11:20-11:50; 12:00-12:30; and 12:40-1:10. All library programs are open to the public. For more information call the library at 860-870-3160.

Book discussion group Hall Memorial Library will host a meeting of its book discussion group from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 15, both in person at the library and via a Zoom meeting. Copies of the book that is being discussed each month are available at the library. Copies of the book are also available digitally. Register at the library for the Zoom information. Parenting workshop A “Parenting Workshop — Speech, Language Development and Literacy” is scheduled to take place in the upstairs room of Hall Memorial Library from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 7. The workshop is being sponsored by Ellington Youth Service and the library. Register by calling 860-870-3130.

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Ellington, state DMV officer unexpectedly dies ELLINGTON — Connecticut State Police Troop C and the Ellington Police Department announced the death of Ellington Police Officer Joseph Grayeb. Grayeb passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 12. Grayeb was 54 years old. Grayeb served the citizens of Ellington for over 22 years, and the state of Connecticut as an officer for the Department of Motor Vehicles for over 20 years.

Grayeb also served as the Rocky Hill Volunteer Joseph Grayeb Ambulance chief, where he continued to show compassion, and help others when they needed it the most. Grayeb’s dedication to the service and protection of his community was apparent throughout his lifetime of service.

New risk management director has extensive experience ELLINGTON — First Selectwoman Lori Spielman has announced the hiring of Walter Lee as the town’s new emergency and risk management director following the retirement of Joseph Palombizio. Lee was appointed by the Board of Selectmen at a Nov. 8 special meeting. Lee has 20 years of experience in emergency management preparedWalter Lee ness and response, coordinating mutual aid, emergency notifications systems, and command systems. In 20 years with the Connecticut State Capitol Police, he spent 11 years as a member of the command staff, and the final nine were served as chief of police, responsible for the management and deployment of supportive public

safety personnel. He has vast knowledge and experience with the development and implementation of policies and procedures, budget development and management, and developing agency goals and objectives. “This position will allow us to further develop our partnership with the Ellington Public Schools, as Walter will work closely with them to ensure safe learning and working environments for our students and staff. His vast experience will be very beneficial when it comes to participating in various task forces and interacting with other communities,” Spielman said. Lee added that he’s “excited to play a part in making Ellington the community of choice and a great place to live.” Lee may be contacted at 860-8703182 or by email at WLee@ellingtonct.gov.

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C A T t “ N P I

December 2021 North Central News

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Ellington 17th annual Winterfest features tree-lighting, ‘Torchlight Parade’ ELLINGTON — The Ellington Winterfest Committee will present its 17th annual Winterfest from 3:45 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, around the town’s gazebo green bordered by Main and Maple Streets and Church Street. A full day of events will be topped by the “Torchlight Parade,” presented by the Ellington Volunteer Fire Dept., down Ellington’s Main Street beginning at 5 or 5:15 p.m. Brightly festooned fire trucks from around

Connecticut will be part of the colorful parade, as well as festive floats created by local businesses and organizations. Check for the full program of Winterfest activities on Facebook, and at the library’s program board for an update, as well as the town’s website, www.ellington-ct.gov. For details, call 860-875-3885. In case of inclement weather, call Hall Memorial Library at 860-870-3160 for an update. There will be no rain/snow date.

Library hosts local author for book signing ELLINGTON — Hall Memorial Library will be hosting a book signing for local author Ellen Karadimas on Dec. 11 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m., in the library’s reading room. Karadimas, founder and chairperson of the Ellington Winterfest, whose book “In the Shadow of Nuremberg” was recently published, states “It’s a work of historic fiction based on a true story and is written from the unique perspective of an ordinary German family, and a Greek slave laborer, during World War II in Germany, who faced political upheaval, poverty, illness, death, prejudice, and immigration issues, much like people are facing today. I hope the story proves

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Oakridge Dairy last month broke ground on its farm anerobic digestors, which will harness methane waste into energy. Local officials and Oakridge personnel were on hand for the ground-breaking. State Rep. Jaime Foster, D-57th District, was among those on hand. “I’ve had a lot of distinct honors and privileges as the state rep of Ellington and East Windsor, but the first bill I ever took out on the floor was to streamline the permitting for on farm anerobic digestors. I’m happy to say that today Oakridge Dairy broke ground on their on farm anerobic digestors which will harness methane waste as energy. Great work to all involved and thanks for including me in your day!”

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Enfield

The Recreation Department has a variety of basketball and pickleball offerings available. For details on the programs below or other information, call the Enfield Recreation Department at (860) 253-6420 or visit on the web at www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation. Kindergarten basketball An introductory program for youth in kindergarten will be held Sundays at the Enfield Annex beginning Jan. 9, 2022. The program will consist of eight 45-minute sessions in which participants will learn the fundamentals of basketball while being exposed to the concept of organized youth sports. Registration will be limited to 40 participants (20 per session) and will be taken on a first come, first serve basis. This program is for residents only. Fee is $49 per participant.

First and second grade basketball A co-ed instructional basketball program for boys and girls in grades 1 and 2 will be held Sunday afternoons at the Enfield Annex beginning Jan. 9, 2022. The program will consist of eight 55minute sessions in which participants will work in groups rotating through skills stations to learn the fundamentals of basketball. Registration will be limited to 80 participants (40 per session) and will be taken on a first come, first serve basis. This program is for residents only. Fee is $49 per participant. 20 and over open gym Enfield Recreation hosts open gym basketball time for adults 20 and over. The program is designed for recreational play and pick-up games are arranged amongst the participants. Participants must show proof of age and residency to participate in addition to having a program waiver on file at the gym. The program will be held Mondays, ,through April 25, 2022 from 6-9 p.m. at the Enfield Annex gym. See website for no program dates. Daily fee is $4 residents/$5 nonresidents. Bring exact change for payment.

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Enfield

A Christmas tree shortage 13 years in the making By Julie Cotnoir ENFIELD — The news has been filled with stories about logistic and supply issues that will have an impact on holiday shopping. Those shortages include artificial Christmas trees. But many may not be aware of how something other than the COVID pandemic has resulted in a shortage in live Christmas tree inventory. Tony Scussel Jr., of The Growth Company, said the Great Recession of 2008 is the reason behind the shortage. It may seem odd that something that took place 13 years ago could have an impact in 2021 but to understand the growing time for Balsam or Frasier Fir trees is just the start of this story. According to Scussel it can take seven to 10 years for a tree to mature. In 2008, he said the financial crisis meant wallets were closed and many farms and wholesalers felt some money was better than no money, so they sold trees that year for less than normal. Following the holidays, these farmers made decisions that would impact the market for years to come. Many farms closed due to the economic

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downturn. Others couldn’t afford to plant trees and held back planting a crop for up to three years. These decisions have resulted in shortages throughout the U.S. and in Canada, where The Growth Company purchases its trees each year. Scussel said he and his father have been purchasing trees from Canada for 28 years. He said coming to their Hazard Avenue location has become tradition for many families. Some travel from as far as Old Saybrook to get their tree from The Growth Company. Scussel said despite COVID in 2020, there were no issues getting the trees from Canada. He said this year is different. “If you don’t have a good relationship with a grower, you are being cut out.” He said lack of supply is forcing wholesalers to raise prices to remain in business and to stick in many cases with large customers. Prices have doubled since 2019, according to Scussel. He will offer trees for different budgets but he has to raise them due to the cost of the tree to his

Come Home for the Holidays

Tony Scussel, Jr. from The Growth Company in Enfield, stands in front of 40% of items he ordered in January for the holidays. The rest of his order may not arrive for Christmas. Logistics may be the reason for this shortage but there is a different story when it comes to being able to buy a live Christmas tree. Photo by Julie Cotnoir business. He recalled how decades ago people would come to the store and say “I have $20” and he could give them a

decent size tree. “Those days are gone,” he said. Knowing prices would be sig-

TREE/page 38

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December 2021 North Central News

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Enfield Plenty of smiles at the Farmers Market The Enfield Indoor Farmers Market takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays through Dec. 19 at Enfield Square Mall. On one recent Sunday Cheryl Harrington, right, was on hand with her handmade birdhouses, while Webster Thomas from Webz Studios was there with a caricature he drew of Ariana Grande. Photos by Joshua Esan

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Somers

Tommy’s Tattoo Convention The ninth annual Tommy’s Tattoo Convention took place in October at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. The event is organized by Tommy’s Tattoo Supplies of Somers. Above, contestants take the stage during one of the contests. At right, the owner of Tommy’s Tattoo Supplies, Tom Ringwalt, judges a contestant’s tattoo. At far right, Australian daredevil Alakazam juggles a chainsaw. Photos by Joshua Esan

December 2021 North Central News

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Somers

Advent, Christmas services The Somers Congregational United Church of Christ welcomes all to its Advent and Christmas services. Advent services began on Nov. 28 at 9:30 a.m. and continue each Sunday through Dec. 19. A Children’s Christmas Pageant will be presented by Sunday School students on Dec. 19 at 4:30 p.m. For those struggling during the holiday season, a Longest Night Service is scheduled for Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, a Family Friendly Christmas Eve Service will be held at 5 p.m. and a Traditional Christmas Eve Service with communion will be at 10 p.m.

All services will be held both in-person and livestreamed on the church’s YouTube channel: Somers Congregational UCC. Somers Congregational United Church of Christ is located at 599 Main St. in Somers. If you have questions regarding the Advent or Christmas Services, please call the church office at (860) 763-4021 or email office@thesomerschurch.org. Holiday bazaar Somers Congregational Church is hosting a Holiday Bazaar Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in its Foundation Room. The bazaar will feature homemade crafts and baked goods, vintage Christmas items and beautiful poinsettias for sale. In addition, a luncheon will be held from 11:30am-1:00pm with menu choices of either soup or chili, including a dessert and beverage. This is a cash-only event and masks are required while in the church building. Somers Congregational Church is located at 599 Main St.. For details call 860-763-4021 or email office@thesomerschurch.org.

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Somers

Election tight in Suffield; new board in Somers (continued from page 1) Suffield: Consequential change also occurred in Suffield where Republican Colin Moll narrowly defeated three-term incumbent First Selectwoman Melissa Mack by an 88-vote margin. In the past two elections Mack ran unopposed. The newly elected first selectman entered the race in late September. He told the Journal Inquirer he decided to run to give Suffield residents a choice and because he knew some residents felt “disenfranchised.” Moll did not reply to the NCN request for comment. Two Suffield races required recounts to confirm selectman victories for Republican Jerry Mahoney (who won by two votes) and Democrat Mel Chaftez (who won by a 15-vote margin). Suffield voters also approved seven of 14 town charter revisions. The most significant agreed to give the police and fire commissions authority over the respective departments, clarifying that their chiefs manage the day-to-day operations of the department and report to the first selectman. East Windsor: Races for the town’s governing Board of Selectmen and most of the seats on the Board of Education were uncontested. The single change on the Board of Education selected Democrat Noreen Farmer over a seat formerly occupied by Dave Swaim. Though Farmer could not be reached for comment, First Selectman Jason Bowza said of the overall status quo, “

That’s a pretty good signal things are going in the right direction.” Bowza’s term was not up for reelection. Ellington: Voters reelected Republican First Selectwoman Lori L. Spielman for her fourth term with a decisive victory of just over 500 votes out of 4,000. She has told numerous sources she feels the result is an indication the community is satisfied with past efforts. Joining Spielman on the Board of Selectmen for another term are Republicans James Prichard, John W. Turner, Ronald Stomberg. David Stavens, and Democrat Melinda Ferry. Republican Charlotte Ward, who was endorsed by the Democrats, was elected to her first term. Somers: Republican Timothy Keeney ran uncontested for the town’s first selectman seat. He will be joined on the Board of Selectman by Republican William Meier III and Democrat Robert Schmidt. Elected to the Board of Education were Democrats Ed Depeau and Jan Martin and Republicans Carl Stebbins, Kim Radziewicz, Michael Briggs, and Chris Thiesing. Stafford: Republicans ruled in Stafford. Republican Town Chairman Salverio Titus won the first selectman seat as his party also took control of the Board of Selectmen with Kurt Vail’s victory. Elected to the Board of Education was the full Republican slate: Erica Bushior, Janene Berriault, and Aaron Hoffman. AAHA Accredited

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Somers

Library Hours Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m. Holiday Closings Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24 Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25 New Year’s Eve, Friday, December 31 New Year’s Day, Saturday, January 1

Public Library 2 Vision Boulevard, Somers, CT 06071 Email: somerspubliclibraryct@gmail.com 860-763-3501 Fax 860-763-1718 www.somerspubliclibrary.org ADULT PROGRAMS Adult Take-n-Make Kit The December kit will include all the materials you need to make a spoon Christmas tree. Kits are available beginning December 6 for Somers residents only while supplies last. Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library. Italy: Buone Feste (Happy Holidays) Monday, December 6, 6:30 p.m. Join presenter and tour guide Mariann Millard for a lively program on Italy in December. Be entertained and learn about the Italian December traditions, influenced for centuries by religious and secular practices. They are solemn, fun and enjoyed with gusto! Call the library to register for this program. A Gathering of Celtic and Christmas Tuesday, December 21, 6:30 p.m. Join local musician, Jeff Snow, for an evening

of special holiday Celtic Christmas music! A Gathering of Celtic and Christmas combines the songs, tunes, history and stories from England, Ireland and Scotland with the Music of Christmas. Familiar, and some not so familiar songs and tunes will have the audience singing, laughing and wishing for more. Call the library to register for this program. Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library. CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Santa Celebration Saturday, December 4 Somers residents may register their children for one of four sessions: 9:00, 9:30, 10:00, 10:30. Each program will feature pictures with Santa and a holiday backdrop, reading of a Christmas story and a goodie bag which includes a free book. Parents are invited to bring along their cameras and a canned good for Champ’s Place. Due to the

popularity of the Snacks with Santa program, registration must be done in person, beginning November 20. Admission to each session will be with ticket only. Children must be Somers residents 8 years old or younger. Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library. Kid’s Take-n-Make Christmas Craft Kit Monday, December 6 For ages 3 & up. Kit includes 2 ornament crafts, one cocoa packet and a candy cane. Kits are available beginning Monday, Dec. 6 while supplies last. Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library. Holiday Scavenger Hunt Monday, December 6 – Monday, December 27 Find all of our hidden holiday items and participants will receive a special treat. Decorate a Gingerbread House Tuesday, December 7, 6:00 -7:00 p.m. or Monday, December 13, 4:00-5:00 p.m. For children ages 5 & up (one per family). Come and decorate your very own Gingerbread House! Bring your creativity and we will provide the gingerbread house, icing and candies. Registration begins on November 29 for Somers residents only. Space is limited. Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library.

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30 North Central News December 2021

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Regional Rockville High gets new resource officer VERNON — A new school resource officer is on duty at Rockville High School and she is working to get to know students and staff. Officer Allison Lawrence is taking over for Officer Greg St. Pierre, who is being promoted to sergeant and will move on to a new assignment with the Vernon Police Department. Lawrence was inspired to become a school resource officer as a result of her own experience as a high school student and the rapport she built with her school’s SRO “I have always enjoyed working with youth and being involved in the community,” Lawrence said. “And I had a very good School Resource Officer when I was in high school who I still keep in touch with. When I began my career here, being a School Resource Officer was one of my goals. I was excited to get the opportunity so early in my career.” Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne, a retired Vernon police officer, said

Old New-Gate Prison locks up federal grant for preservation

Officer Allison Lawrence is the new school resource officer at Rockville High School. Photo courtesy of Vernon Police Dept. Lawrence has distinguished herself in her four years with the Police Department, and is moving into an important new role. “Having a police officer in a school enhances safety and gives parents peace of mind,” Champagne said. “But more importantly, a school resource officer builds relationships with our students and their families.”

EAST GRANBY — Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine has announce dthe award of a federal grant of $342,000 to stabilize the museum’s fourstory cell block and retaining walls. This project will not only preserve the prison structure for the foreseeable future, but also increase accessibility, allowing visitors to further explore previously unavailable sections of the museum campus. As the last structure added to the prison in 1824, the cell block allowed the prison to expand to house increasing numbers of incarcerated men and women. Ultimately, the addition of housing did not make up for the failure of the prison to “modernize” to meet new standards, and the prison closed in 1827. The stabilization will reinforce the mission of the museums, to promote

exploration and discovery of the site, while asking visitors to consider the ways in which the American prison system has changed and evolved over time. This project was funded by the Save America’s Treasures grant program, through the Historic Preservation Fund, and administered by the National Park Service, Department of Interior. Additionally, the grant funding will be matched by Connecticut statutory funding from the Community Investment Act, a Connecticut act established to conserve open space, protect farmland, maintain historic properties, and supplement affordable housing projects. Any questions or concerns regarding this project can be directed to the museum curator, Morgan Bengel at Morgan.Bengel@ct.gov or (860) 6551591.

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Regional Area college students act as judges at dairy competitions By Julie Cotnoir Back in the day, when I was a student at Central Connecticut State University, I was often teased that I was from cow country. My friends, many of whom were not from Connecticut, would drive up Interstate 91 heading to Vermont to go skiing. They would say they knew they were going through Enfield when they saw the Smyth Family’s Trinity Farm off the highway. There are 142 dairy farms in Connecticut and more than 64,000 throughout the country. One of the most popular farms in the state is located on the campus of the University of Connecticut. Best known for its ice cream, The UConn Dairy Bar opened in 1953 to sell dairy products that were made by the creamery. But surprisingly, the University of Connecticut had been off the radar for more than two decades when it comes to having students participate as judges, in national dairy competitions. The Universi-

ty of Connecticut has not had an intercollegiate dairy judging team since 1993. But that changed in 2021. This year, a team of four students from UConn is putting Connecticut back on the map, and two of the members of the UConn Dairy Intercollegiate Judging Team are from North Central Connecticut. Miriam Dugas, whose grandparents own Smyth’s Trinity Farm, and Emily Syme, whose parents own Syme Family Farm in Broad Brook, have been life-long friends. They are on the team, along with Michael Wolf and Patrick Kennedy. Any student at UConn can participate in the team as long as they are of junior or senior standing. This year’s students are all enrolled in UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. This current group of students are unique for a college team, in that they all grew up together. They all participated together in 4-H activities in Connecticut. Their coach is Bill Davenport, a UConn alum whose brother was on the last dairy

judging team that UConn had. They are also unique in that they held their first team practice just two months prior to the first competition. Many of their competitors have spent much more time together preparing and practicing for the competitions. While some members of the team had brought cows to shows and/or had participated in other national events, this was the first time the four had participated in judging on a national scale. As part of the competitions students must judge many parts of the cow and defend their judging in oral arguments. Syme said students are using a scorecard to rate the cows on items such as udder and dairy character. The individual and team’s accuracy is what determines their placement in the rankings. Participating in these contests provide students with a hands-on experience that involves evaluating, decision-making Miriam Dugas and Emily Syme joined and public speaking. two other UConn students at various STUDENTS/page 33 dairy judging competitions this fall.

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Regional

Students put UConn back on radar as dairy judges (continued from page 32) They also provide opportunities for the students to visit other farms during their time in each state. The team has judged at three competitions this fall, including the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, for the 100th annual Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Contest. The team placed 11th overall as part of this competition. Syme placed fourth in Jerseys and fifth in Ayrshires. They also have participated in the Pennsylvania All-American Invitational Collegiate Dairy Judging Contest, along with 12 other teams from across the country, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The team placed fifth overall in that competition and first in Guernsey, third in Holsteins, fourth in Ayrshires and fifth in Jerseys. In November, the team travelled to the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky. Syme placed fifth highest individual overall in the entire compe-

tition, and Dugas placed four classes perfectly correct. The team placed fourth of 17 teams. They were second team in Brown Swiss, second team in Jerseys, Syme was fourth in Brown Swiss and fifth place overall individually and Dugas was the only one on the team who got four perfect scores of a 50 in four of the 10 classes. Syme is a junior at UConn and is majoring in plant and soil management, with a minor in agriculture business. She said it has been a great experience. “We were super excited to bring a team from UConn back.” She said the team did remarkably well since they had so little time to prepare, compared to other teams who have been working together a lot longer. She said one of the most challenging parts of the contests is having to defend your scores without using any index cards or notes. The two young women have travelled together before this year. They both were on the Dairy Challenge Team. This involved walking onto a farm, accessing their production

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these contests have already helped her understand and appreciate what they have in their own herd of cows. Dugas and Syme both appreciate what an important legacy they are part of with their families’ farms. “I am very fortunate to grow up on a farm my grandfather started,” Dugas said. She appreciates all of the time she was able to have with him during the pandemic to learn more about the farm and have a role in providing all of the customers with the milk they needed during such a trying time. “It was a huge bonding time,” she added. Both young women continue to help at the farms, as much as they can while keeping up with their studies. The Syme Farm will be busy this holiday season with their festive holiday wreaths, their newborn calves and operating their Christmas barn shop featuring Connecticut made products. No tree sales at the farm this year, but plenty of other reasons to stop by during the holidays. Trinity Farm also holds a special place in the heart of their customers each holiday season, with their acclaimed eggnog, in a traditional glass bottle for sale for a limited time. Visit www.Symefamilyfarm.com and www.symthstrinityfarm.com to learn more about the local farms.

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records and creating a miniature business plan for the farm, according to Dugas. The Challenge website explains that students work together to develop recommendations for the farm to maximize herd profit through nutrition, production, milking procedures, animal health facilities, cow comfort, farm strategy and more. Dugas enjoyed her time on the UConn team. “It was amazing.” She said their team members made it even more special. “We all grew up together and not a lot of other schools can say they did.” Dugas said having multiple opportunities to judge has helped them all improve their skills. “Harrisburg was my learning experience one.” She said she is proud of how she and the team did. A fifth-generation farmer, Dugas said her grandfather began farming at their current location at 4 Oliver Road in 1984, with her grandfather farming where Olive Garden stands in Enfield today. A senior, majoring in animal science she is currently doing an internship with Pfizer. She would like to continue to have additional outside of the farm experiences for a couple of years, with the ultimate goal to come back and run the farm with her younger brother Beau. “I want to be able to apply experiences to my own business.” She said

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Somers HONOR ROLL SOMERS — The following students have been named to the Somers High School honor roll for the first quarter. Grade 12 High honors Cooper Barrett, Alexandria Bates, Luke Boudreau, Brianne Boyd, Sarah Cranna, Caroline Curtis, Austin Delesio, Kaya Donah, Benjamin Fawthrop, Natalie Harvin, Madison Hinkley, Gabriel Kukulka, Anna Majowicz, Grace Majowicz, Connor Sparrow, Emily Tardiff, Mallory Wohlers, Kaede Wood, John Zapolski. Honors Luke Arnone, J a d e Breton, Kayla Brown, Mollie Burns, Joseph Burzyski, Taylor Byo, Amelia Carenzo, Tyler Case, Aidan Connors, Patrick Connors, Mia Cosker, Daniel Crabb, Sean Croken, John Denehy, Christian Dina,

Justin Donoghue, Olivia Figella, Matthew Fleiscshman, Dana Gall, Grace Gengenbach, Alex Grenier, Samantha Hansen, Mary Herrity, Ethan Kelly, Thomas Lafayaette, Emily Lawlor, Grace Lessard, Andrew Lyman, Dylan MacNaughton, Nicholas Mancuso, Taylor McCormick, Shannon Munson, Isabella Nolasco, Palmer Oliveri, Cody Palazzesi, Joshua Parent, Kush Patel, Bianca Ryder, Natasha Sherwood, Rachel St. Germain, Douglas Suter, Ryan Symington, Jonathan Tracey, Georgiana Turner, Patricia Vivilecchiam Katiya Zawrotny. Grade 11 High honors Chloe Albano, Owen Argiro, John Bonin, Nicholas Calcasola, Josua Colby, Gabriel D’Amour, Alejandro Diaz, Cole Ferro, Gracie Flynn, Ryan

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Colby McCormick, Alano Oquendo, Destinee Pizarro, Kyle Provencher, Kiara Ramirez-Robles, David Reid, Jenna Riley, Concetta Shewokis, Amanda Tardiff, Hallie Watt, Hannah White. Grade 10 High honors Kathyrn Brown, Grace Chagnon, Riley Crowel, Braden Davis, Faith Denault, Cody Ferrero, Alessandra Gioscia, Kate Grandpe, Kristina Haraga, May Hudroge, Teegan Illuzzi, Dylan Kukulka, Jack Logan, Emma Martinik, Grace McGuinness, Taylor Mynahan, Sullivan Quirk, Dara Salka, Sara St. Germain, Amanda Trask, Jennali Turner, Eliana Wood, Lauren Zapolski. Honors Omer Al-Obeydi, Trinity Baj, Julian Banas, Gabriel Beaupre, Ryan Birkenshaw,

continued to page 38

Pastor installed Pastor Scott Spence was formally installed as the settled minister for Somers Congregational United Church of Christ Nov. 14. Photo by Joe Driscoll

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Halligan, Kaija Hjelm, Madison Juzba, Meghan Martowska-White, Marcus Powers, Elena Riggins, Olivia Riley, Evan Root. Honors Eric Alaimo, Phillip Alaimo, Brandon Andersen, Jamie Anthony, Alessandro Bacabac, Trent Beggs, Jacqueline Bordeaux, Hannah Boyd, Evalina Bruel, Arieanna Burnett, Benjamin Campion, Ella Campion, Shea Cassidy, Laura Catellier, Michael Croyle, Deidre Dalessio, Devon Dalessio, Raya Davis, Oliver DeRoma, Erin Donohue, Robin Gaskell, Tait Gaudet, Madison Gebo, Aryonna Gervais, Sarah Gill, Alexa Gladysz, Katherine Grondin, Alex Hinds, Renee Hoague, Tristan Hogan, James Johnson, Braden Joyal, Kiana Kalman, April Kelly, Grace Kowal, Thomas Lesco, Kalvin Long, James Maskill, Alexis Maurice, Nicholas Mazza,

DEC37-48.qxp_NCN new template 12/1/21 7:27 AM Page 38

Regional Tree shortage had its roots in Great Recession of 2008 (continued from page 23) nificantly higher he had to make his best guess on what the market would support. He had to place his order by July 1 for the season. He does feel people will be willing to buy a live tree. The tradition of having a live tree is sacred for many. He believes that by Dec. 10, The Growth Company will have sold 75% of its trees. The pandemic has impacted The Growth Company’s other holiday purchasing too. Its gift and decorating items were ordered well in advance of the 2021 holiday season. Scussel said he travels annually to a gift vendor expo in Las Vegas in January. This year, knowing supply and demand could be an issue, he bought what he wanted for the holidays all at that time, something he traditionally

would not have done. When interviewed in early November only 40% of that order had been delivered. Things like decorative picks for wreaths will probably not make their way to Enfield in time. The next item that is expected to be hard to find, and expensive for florists, will be glass. The pandemic, along with temporary factory closures, and international tariffs, are adding this to the list of hard to find, and more expensive items in the world. In some instances, the price of glass has increased by as much as 10%, in just the past year. But don’t worry about where you will put your Valentine’s Day flowers, Scussel has begun purchasing glass vases whenever a wholesaler calls and says they have them in stock.

38 North Central News December 2021

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Theaterworks ‘Rocks’ HARTFORD - It’s certainly been a rocky road, getting to the end of 2021. Which is all the more reason to catch the return of a perennial, area chestnut - Theaterworks’ “Christmas on the Rocks,” running through Dec. 23 at 233 Pearl St., Hartford. (twhartford.org) Anchoring Rocks once again this year is legendary barkeep Ted Lange, best known as Isaac from The Love Boat. The setting is a local dive bar on Christmas Eve, and Lange is expecting a silent night. What he gets is a revolving door of famous kids from holiday stories past played by Randy Harrison (“Queer as Folk”) and Jen Cody (Broadway’s “Shrek.”) Lange pours drinks, the now adult versions of these characters pour out their tales Ted Lange. of woe and the mix proves a side-splitting evening for all.

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Somers High Honors continued from page 37 Mei Bissaillon, Mara Butler, Deven Caetano, Lily Carzello, Lindsey Cashman, Isabella Caye, Jedric Clark, Russel Coelho, Tyler Curran, Alexa Damboragian, Grace Dina, Dylan Doody, Tyler Dubuc, Tanyon Duff, Reese Emlen, Kate Gebo, Olivia Gengenbach, Chloe Gowdy, Elizabeth Grondinl Riley Hareld, Taylor Illuzzi, Audrey Mahoney, Emily McLaughlin, Rebecca Munson, Brooke Novak, Trent White, Melea Wolters, John Zdebski. Grade 9 High honors Leighanna Antonmarchi, Matthew Bernier, Angelina Bollinger, Jake Breton, Packett Burnett, Stephanie Burzynski, Mia Cardinale, Declan Case, Jack Chester, Emma Cicciarella, Avery D’Amour, Lyndsey Hale, McKenna Halligan, Alyzabeth

Halmers, Charlotte Hight, Kinsey Loupe, Chloe Mike, Juliette Mira, Katelyn Provencher, Eric Renzoni, Cristian Rosulschi, Maya Serrano. Honors Tatiana Arruda, Noelle Benedict, Ashley Birkenshaw, Jack Brayton, Wilbur Bruso, Andrew Cardwell, Madison Carra, Emma Chase, Kimma Clovis, Ava DePeau, Lily Duff, Rylee Ferro, James Gall, Brendan Grenier, Emma Grimes, Madeline Guyette, Allie Hafford, Ethan Hartman, Bryce Huestis, Tyler Jablonski, Yanni Karaja, Krysta Laboda, Aiden Leiphart, Cooper Leonard, Ashley Lyons, Cody Marks, Jack Olearcek, Evan Olearczyk, Morgan Oliveri, Fiona Pham, Jocelyn Randall, Johan Rasid, Alyssa Reynolds, Christopher Rogers, Josephine Rumore, Thomas Saso, Riley Scavotto, Nico Skalski, Brooke Stevens, Sophia Thomas, Emma Waters

DEC37-48.qxp_NCN new template 11/30/21 8:38 PM Page 39

Stafford

WinterFest sure to make spirits bright in Stafford STAFFORD — Celebrate the season with friends, family, and neighbors at Stafford WinterFest from 3 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 11 (inclement weather date Dec. 12). The festive event features the Parade of Lights, live performances, visits with Santa, a community bonfire, food trucks, and more. With hundreds of luminaries lighting the night along Main Street, Stafford comes alive with holiday cheer. Museum Open House, 3-7 p.m.: Peruse exhibits, artifacts, and learn about town history at the Stafford Historical Society Museum at 2 Spring St.

Live Nativity, 3 p.m.: Live Nativity Performance with real actors and animals on the lawn of the First United Methodist Church at 8 Church St. Parade of Lights, 4:30 p.m.: From Olympic Circle to Town Hall, with entrants lighted for evening viewing. Caroling, Mix + Mingle: Community carol sing with the SHS Choir, community bonfire, and visits with Santa In Haymarket Common (31 Main St.), immediately following the parade. Visit www.explorestaffordct.com/ winterfest for more information.

People gather near a Christmas tree during the snow-laden 2017 Stafford WinterFest. Photo by Amy Hartenstein

The Grinch brings a little holiday spirit to Stafford during the 2018 WinterFest. Photo by Jacqueline Sidor

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LEGAL NOTICE STAFFORD HIGH SCHOOL NOTICE OF DESTRUCTION OF STUDENT RECORDS According to the policy of the Stafford Board of Education regarding student records, some records must be kept for fifty years. These records include official administrative records such as: 1. 2. 3. 4.

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December 2021 North Central News

Academic Achievement Records. Basic biographical information included on the transcript. Immunization Records. Attendance Records. Records which must be destroyed six years after the student’s graduation include information for the formulation of the educational programs of all students but not absolutely necessary over an indefinite period of time such as: health records; standardized group test scores; individual diagnostic reading tests; reports regarding recurrent behavior patterns including student progress reports and letters concerning discipline matters; reports of planning and placement team meetings; speech, language, and hearing evaluations; referrals, correspondence and reports with other agencies and outside professionals; family case studies; psychological, neurological, psychiatric, or medical evaluations. In order to comply with these regulations, records for members of the Class of 2015, who graduated six years ago, will be destroyed after September 30, 2021. If you are a member of the Class of 2015 and you wish to receive your records prior to destruction, please notify us in writing, as soon as possible, and no later than 3:00 p.m. on September 30, 2021, to Stafford High School Guidance Department, 145 Orcuttville Road, Stafford Springs, CT 06076. Special Education students must submit a written request if they want their records maintained permanently for the purpose of social security benefits. PLEASE BE REMINDED THAT YOUR BASIC ADMINISTRATIVE RECORDS WHICH IS LOCATED ON YOUR HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT WILL BE KEPT FOR FIFTY YEARS AFTER GRADUATION.

40 North Central News December 2021

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Stafford

Prayer Shawl Stafford Prayer Shawl Ministry meets the second Monday of each month except July and August in the Stafford Public Library from 2-30 p.m. The next meeting will be Dec. 13. We welcome individuals who would like to attend and knit, crochet, or quilt these much needed prayer shawls. We’ll even teach you to knit or crochet. Join in a ministry that brings God’s grace, peace, comfort, love, joy, and hope to those in need. If you cannot make the meeting but want to make prayer shawls at home, we'll even pick them up. If you or your pastor knows of anyone who could use a prayer shawl, we’ll arrange for one to be picked up. Please call 860-982-5896 for information or pick up arrangements.

Bulldogs are top dogs The Stafford Bulldogs C Team fnished with a perfect 10-0 record when it beat the Enfield Ramblers 39-14 on Nov. 26 to win the Northern Connecticut championship. Photo courtesy of Stafford Bulldogs

Happy Holidays from your local Realtor

Romina D’Angelo, Realtor, SRS, PSA

“YOUR LOCAL REALTOR” Cell (860)202-5466 • O ce (860)752-7259 Licensed in Email: rominadangelo1@yahoo.com CT & MA www.RDFindYourHome.com

Red Hill Tree Farm 37 South Main Street (Route 5) 1/2 mile south of Walmart

East Windsor, CT • 860-627-9728

OPENING DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING 860-741-5999 Taylor Rental, 150 En昀eld St, En昀eld CT Best Place when you don't want to buy it!

10-$35

Fir and Blue Spruce Cut your own any size

Get $2.00 o昀 a 20 lb. Propane Fill.

Don’t miss this o昀er! Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not valid with any other discounts or sales. Valid: 12/31/21

Wreaths Cemetery Logs

Special on Pre-Cut Trees 2’-6’

Offered By: Taylor Rental Center of En昀eld, CT

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR HOLIDAY DINNER WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS

50.00

tax included

3’-11’ Trees Available

•DISHES•GLASSES•FLATWARE•LINENS•CHAFERS

December 2021 North Central News

2.00 Off

Propane Fill!

Saturday and Sunday 9-4 Monday-Thursday 1-4• Friday 11-4

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Opening Soon Serving the Community for 40 Years! www.staffordveterinarycenter.com

The Hospital with a Heart!

Our new facility is coming soon! We can’t wait to welcome you to our new state-of-the-art facility at 42 West Main Street in Stafford Springs. We’re happy to have been providing quality, convenient, and compassionate care for your dogs, cats, large animals, and exotics since 1981!

42 North Central News December 2021

Full Service 24 Hour Facility!

Dr. David Mordasky

Dr. Andrew Mordasky

Dr. Liz Nutile

Dr. Nicole Davies

27 Buckley Highway Stafford Springs, CT 06076 860-684-5868

Dr. Bridget Johnson

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Suffield Players perform Dickens’ classic for holiday benefit SUFFIELD — The Suffield Players are ready to impart some holiday cheer with the annual holiday benefit featuring the classic tale by Charles Dickens, “A Christmas Carol,” adapted for stage by Ryan Bird. Performances are Dec. 3 and 4 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. at Mapleton Hall. See the power of redemption as we follow the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, who learns that it’s never too late to change and love his fellow man. “If you look around, you’ll see numerous productions of ‘A Christmas Carol’ in the area,” director Lisa Parker said. “That’s pretty amazing for a story that's over 175 years old. But its familiarity is its appeal, especially this year when our traditional holiday celebrations are still in flux due to the pandemic.”

Keeping to the Players tradition of holiday shows with “a minimum of rehearsal and a maximum of fun,” some of the actors will perform with scripts in hand. “Not having to memorize lines gives the cast more freedom to explore these classic characters,” Parker said. “Dickens wanted us to see our own human nature in these characters, however funny or flawed we may be.” The cast: Alex Barry, Josh Barry, Shaun Barry, Jillian Bower, Mary Fernandez-Sierra, Dennis Fitzpatrick, Tom Hebert, Mariah LaJeunesse, Hanna Madler, Hannah McCluskey, Bob McGowan, Nicole Migliozi, Mark Proulx, Josh Prouser, Jamie Reopell, Dana T. Ring, Kelly Seip, Kyle Smith, Paige Stawasz, and Eva Veras. General Admission: $10 suggested donation; all proceeds go toward maintenance of historic Mapleton Hall

SANTA VISITS THE MUSEUM Saturday, December 11th, 2021

For more information, visit www.neam.org or call (860) 623-3305.

36 Perimeter Road (o昀 Route 75) Windsor Locks, CT

Admission to the New England Air Museum is Adults $18, Seniors $15, Youth $10, Veterans Free, Kids under 3 Free.

The New England Air Museum is located in Windsor Locks, Conn. adjacent to Bradley International Airport. Take I-91 north or south to CT. exit 40 (Route 20) to Route 75 north.

OPEN Tuesday through Sunday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

December 2021 North Central News

The New England Air Museum will get a visit from Jolly Saint Nick on December 11th. Santa will be here for the final day of the Toys for Tots Drive and our first ever Ugly Sweater Contest. Bring in a new unwrapped toys for area youth in need, get a selfie with Santa in his Doman helicopter, and compete in our ugliest sweater contest to win a flight crew membership. You will be able to talk with Santa in a safe environment and make those special holiday memories from 10:00am to 1:00pm.

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860-803-3525

Roger, the franchise owner of ITEX Fairfield CT & New England was able to trade his excess luxury items for a family dream vacation. You can too and we will show you how.

44 North Central News December 2021

We are the largest Business to Business Connection.

LET’S BARTER SOMETHING!

(203) 256-9001 fair昀eld.itex.com (203) 256-9001 fairfield.itex.com

ask for Roger Boroway, Owner and President of Itex New England. Hilda Salerno, Trade Manager

DEC37-48.qxp_NCN new template 11/30/21 8:38 PM Page 45

JEFFREY P. THOMPSEN, M.D. SHAWN BRADY, PA-C • DOMENICK BIANCHI, APRN

860.253.9950

SPECIALIZING IN:

Cardiovascular Service

• Preventive Cardiology • General Cardiology Dr. Jeffrey Thompsen, MD, Cardiologist was voted the Best Specialty Practice for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021! ENFIELD – 15 Palomba Drive

• Heart Disease In Women • Family History of Heart Disease

STAFFORD SPRINGS – 7 Magauran Drive, Suite 1 & 2

December 2021 North Central News

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) listed is our best rate. Autos with less than 25,000 miles up to 75 months. 63 Month term for autos with less than 100,000 miles but greater than 25,001. Existing COMTRUST loans not eligible. Other rates and terms based on credit worthiness. Rate subject to change without notice. Restrictions may apply. Offer expires 12/31/21

DEC37-48.qxp_NCN new template 11/30/21 8:38 PM Page 46

Pre-Winter Special! Schedule Your Appointment Today

$ 313 New State Rd. • Manchester

50 OFF

Any Service of $50 or More!

Tune-up • A/C • Coolant Flush • Brakes • Shocks • Alignment • ANY SERVICE!

860-649-6094

(This is Not A Misprint!)

www.TonysImportedAuto.com Bridging the gap between European, Asian and Domestic Auto Repairs

One Coupon per Visit. See store for details, some restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of write up for discount. Cannot combine with any other offers or discounts. Expires 3/31/22.

FREE

Tire Rotation and Brake Inspection with any service

One coupon per visit. Must present coupon at time of write up for discount. Cannot combine with any other offers or discounts. Expires 3/31/21.

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

General Maintenance, Fuel Injection, Tires, Towing, Diesel, Electrical & Used Cars

(Foreign Car Specialists)

Highest Prices Paid For Junk Cars And Scrap Metal

860-649-6094

PEOPLE’S AUTO

USED AUTO & TRUCK PARTS FOR SALE

TURN YOUR TRASH INTO CASH!

860-649-6094

ASE CERTIFIED

23 Field Road, Somers, CT

Dave Doyker, Frank Doyker

860-763-0711

SAME DAY PICK UP FOR YOUR JUNK CAR

46 North Central News December 2021

, We Sell Motors uto Glass, Etc... ,A Transmissions

Used Ti res $

20 And Up • Buffing, Wax & Glaze • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • Protectant

We provide Container Service

96 Egypt Road Somers, CT Open Monday - Friday 8:00 to 5:00 Saturday 8:00 to 12:30

10% OFF AUTO PARTS

Expires Expires12/30/21 8/31/21.

860-749-3705 888-KAR-PART

PROFESSIONAL DETAILING P NOW OFFERING

Head Light Restoration

39.99

ea.

Cloudy Headlamp? Don’t pay $200 or more to replace them.

Gift Certificates Available Adam Heidelmark

860-763-3494 34 Egypt Road, Somers, CT Fully Insured • Fleet Rates

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Classifieds Sta昀ord Springs TUTOR AVERY PARK APARTMENTS

Income Based Rent Studios and 1 Bedroom apts. One 昀oor living 62 or Older or Disabled Individuals State Financed/EHO

860-684-4973

Don’t let your child slip this summer. Paient, caring, knowledgeable & affordable certi昀ed teacher. COVID FREE & VACCINATED

Call Elizabeth (En昀eld)

203-654-6668 “Learning Never Stops” Licensed in CT

NRA BASIC PISTOL YOUR AD CLASSES HERE! HELPING HANDS FIREARM SALES AND

DON’Z

HANDYMANN PAINTING PLUS MORE NO JOB TOO SMALL! Call or Text For An Estimate

239-450-0592

Send your classi昀ed text and check to:

FFL TRANSFERS

North Central News PO Box 427 CALL ORCTEMAIL Somers, 06071

MARK@VALORSALES.US by the 20th of the month

MARK INGRAM for the following edition.

don.z201@gmail.com

$24.95 - No Border 860-713-3231 $29.95 - With Border

NEW HOLLAND SUPPLY, LLC

I BUY HOUSES

CUSTOM BUILDING KITS Garages, Barns, Arenas & Sheds Local & Amish Builders

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CT Sales Representative

Patrick Corrigan

chris@ourtownhomebuyers.com

860-847-1076

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NewHollandSupplyCTrep@yahoo.com

BUYING GUNS

MUSIC LESSONS

FOR SALE 495 STAR TREK

Piano - Flute Ukelele - Voice CERTIFIED MUSIC EDUCATOR

All types Modern & Antique Single or Whole Collections

Studio in Somers or Virtual

Peter Emmelmann

860-749-2654

860-416-1989

TOPSOIL

BUYING

Dark, rich screened, also mulch, stone, sand, gravel and 昀ll. * DELIVERED * Call for Pricing.

Old books, old costume/antique jewelry, postcards, paintings, coins stamps, silver, antiques, etc.

paperbacks 1974-2002

44 pcs Sheet Music 1927-1960 Call 860-688-5277 between 10-2 for lists & variable pricing.

STEVEAD YOUR CHAMBERS HERE!

• classi昀ed MASONRY Send your text and check to: North Central News • CARPENTRY PO Box 427 • PAINTING Somers, CT 06071

25+ years experience.

GALLERY ONE

R&R Landscaping

Ed or Tami tami.zaw@gmail.com

860-803-3525

860-658-0268

Licensed and insured. Quick and by the 20th of the month reliable. Winter Services. for the following edition.

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STEVE YOUR AD CHAMBERS HERE!

NRA BASIC PISTOL CLASSES FIREARM SALES AND • MASONRY Send your classi昀ed text and check to: FFL TRANSFERS Light Custodial Duties, Immediate Opening

HELP WANTED - Part Time Janitor North Central News PO Box 427 Somers, CT 06071

• CARPENTRY

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for the following edition.

Call (860) 875-8552 $24.95 - No Border

860-713-3231

reliable. Winter Services.

Relax and call Steve

860-817-4108

$29.95 - With Border

68 SOUTH RD., (RTE. 83) SOMERS CT

(860) 763-0831

Complete Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair Computer Diagnostic Testing • A/C Work Timing Belts • Alignment • Battery Cooper & Hancook Tires

supremeautosc.com

Quality Used Cars

10.00 OFF Super Synthetic Oil • 17- Point Oil Change Cannot combine with any other offers or coupons. With Coupon. Expires /3 /21.

Wild Card

$15.00 OFF

Cannot combine with any other offers or coupons.With Coupon. Expires 12/30/21.

$20.00 OFF

Any service over $200 Cannot combine with any other offers or coupons.With Coupon. Expires 12/30/21.

$50.00 OFF Cannot combine with any other offers or coupons.With Coupon. Expires 12/30/21.

860-698-9513

Any service over $100

Wild Card

Timing Belt Service

December 2021 North Central News

Thank You North Central News Readers for voting Supreme Auto Best Place to Buy a Reliable Used Car.

DEC37-48.qxp_NCN new template 11/30/21 8:38 PM Page 48

Are You Part of the

‘Silver Tsunami’ Nearing Retirement? You may be able to go sooner than you thought!

Let’s talk. Consultations are free! Get personal guidance to help prepare or repair you retirement investment for living a long and independent retirement.

Kent Retirement Planning Services, LLC Harry Kent Accredited Investment Fiduciary 48 North Central News Decemberr 2021

860.749.6961 HARRY KENT

harry.kent@securitiesamerica.com www.kentretirementplanning.com

Wecommitted are committed our clients with investment programs We are to providingtoourproviding clients with investment customized for their individual needs. programs customized for their individual needs. Securities offered through Securities America, Inc., member of FINRA & SIPC and advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors Inc., Kent Retirement Planning Services, LLC and Security America Companies are unaf昀liated.