July 2023 North Central News

Graduation grins

Braden Combs holds up his phone for a selfie with his fellow graduates after the 2023 commencement at Somers High School on June 9. For more on the Somers graduation, see pages 32-33. For photos of other graduations, see East Windsor, page 5; Ellington, page 10; Enfield, page 29; Stafford, page 39; and Suffield, page 45.

NCN Staff Photo

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VOTE & WIN

Tell us your favorites and qualify for your chance to win tickets and passes to local area entertainments and gift cards to local restaurants! Qualify for prize drawings by mailing completed readers poll form below. Minimum of 20 categories must be filled in, in order to be considered.

Did we miss your favorite place? Make your own below! EXEMPT- Hall of Fame Class of 2022! BASILS, DANNY'S, COLD HARBOR & BOBBY V'S!

HOME IMPROVEMENT

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Barnyard 2020

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Budget Blinds 2018

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Lori Spielman Landscaping 2017

Best Contractor

Best Landscaper

Best Place for Cement

Best Driveway Seal

Best Driveway, Paving

Best Tree Service

Best Oil Service

Best HVAC

Best Electrician

Best Plumber

Best Powerwash

Best Roofer

Know another home improvement local hero? Let us know, here.

Know of an area business or person that does not fit into any of these nifty categories but still deserved to be recognized for exceptional service and/or product?

ENTERTAINMENT

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Sonny’s Place 2015

Best Place To See Live Music

Best Family Fun

Local Treasure

Best Day Trip

Best Pizza

Best Sushi

Best Breakfast Restaurant

Know an area jewel for ambiance, laser tag, bowling, best trivia night? Tell us about it here.

AUTO SERVICES

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Bolles Motors 2016

Best Car Dealership - NEW

Best Car Dealership - USED

BEST Auto Body

Best Auto Mechanical Services

Best Auto Detail

Best Place for Tires

Other Auto-related ideas for area standouts? Tell us here.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Kent Financial Services 2014

Best Financial Planner

Best Attorney

Best Accountant Best Lawyer

Real Estate Agency

Best Realtor Write In Your favorite here.

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Johnson Memorial Hospital 2019

Best Salon

Best Nails

Best Spa

Best Yoga

Best Doctor Best Dentist

Best Hospital

Best Walk In Best Gym

Did we miss your favorite? Write in name/business here.

H H H OFFICIAL RULES H H H

1)Only original ballots will be accepted, no photocopies allowed. Enter as often as you’d like.

2)Your complete name, address and phone number have to be included on each ballot for entry into the contest. Ballots without this information will not be accepted. Winners will be notified by telephone.

3)The deadline for entries is Friday, July 21, 2023. The ballot will appear in the June and July 2023 issues of the North Central News Winners will be announced in the August 2023 issue.

4)All entries must be sent to: BEST OF: The North Central News, P.O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071.

5)Winners of all prizes will be responsible for appropriate taxes.

6)The North Central News has the final say on who the winners will be.

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DINING

EXEMPT - See Above 2022

Best Restaurant Overall

Best Happy Hour

Best Lunch Restaurant

Best Dinner Restaurant

Best Pizza

Best Sushi

Best Breakfast Restaurant

Know a best place for date night? Best dessert? Tell us about it here.

RETAIL

EXEMPT: Hall of Famer Geissler’s Supermarket 2016

Hall of Famer Rockville Bank 2015

Hall of Famer Vernon Poolman 2021

Best Boutique

Best Package Store

Best Florist

Best Jeweler

Best Supermarket

Best Deli

Best Specialty Store

Know of a hidden gem we missed? Tell us here.

Your Name:

Address:

Phone: Fill out and mail to:

BEST OF: The North Central News P.O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071

LOGO SPONSOR: Listed as logo sponsor in August write ups.

Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc.

Heating & Cooling Contractors

Hall of Fame business Kent Retirement Planning Services, LLC

Call

“Your team at Stateline Senior Services”

Stateline Senior Services welcomes Israel Rivera as their newest Advisor Come out and meet Israel at one of our upcoming MEDICARE WORKSHOPS

East Hartford Senior Center: Thursday , July 6th at 10:00 am

East Windsor Senior Center: Wednesday, July 26th at 12:30 pm

Enfield Senior Center: Thursday, July 13th at 1:30

Somers Town Hall: Tuesday , July 25th at 4:00 pm

Windsor Locks Senior Center: Wednesday July 5th at 10:00 am

Windsor Locks Senior Center: Wednesday August 2nd at 10:00 am

“We/I do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we/I represent seven organizations which offer seventy-seven products in your area. Please contact Medicare. gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.”

East Windsor East Windsor

EWHS sends off Class of ’23

Photos by Legacy Studio

Office Hours:

Monday-Wednesday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday 8:30 am - 7:00 pm

Friday 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

East Windsor Parks & Recreation 25 School Street, East Windsor, CT 06088 860-627-6662 • www.EastWindsorRec.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS: Summer Concert Series 2023 Our summer concert series is back for its 3rd year! A fun, FREE event for the whole family! Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert at the new Band Shell in East Windsor Park!

Date: Thursdays 6/15-8/24 (no 8/3), plus National Night Out on Tuesday 8/1

Location: East Windsor Park, 27 Reservoir Avenue, Broad Brook

Time: 6:00 pm-8:00 pm

To see the lineup of concerts, please visit www.EastWindsorRec.com

SUMMER ENRICHMENT CAMPS: IncrediFlix (Full Day or Half Day options): 7/17/23-7/21/23

Volleyball Clinic with Matt Warner: 7/31/23-8/4/23

Soccer Shots: 8/7/23 – 8/11/23

LEGO STEAM Summer Camps with E.Y.E.S.: 8/14/23-8/18/23

Food Explorers Summer CampChopped: Around the World: 8/21/23-8/25/23

For additional details and to register, visit www.EastWindsorRec.com

Above, East Windsor High School celebrated its graduating Class of 2023 at its commencement on June 14. Upper right, Nevaeh Hutchins leads the crows in the Pledge of Allegiance. Below right, Lorenzo Resto, class president.

From left, above, valedictorians Aric Duncan and Broderick Wilczak, and Kathryn Wyse singing the national anthem.

East Windsor East Windsor

Trolley Museum enjoys uplifting event

EAST WINDSOR — The Connecticut Trolley Museum held a ceremony to dedicate its first mobile wheelchair lift June 29.

The lift will allow the museum to offer access to their operating trolleys for visitors with mobility issues. The lift will be used for visitors in wheelchairs or visitors who have a challenging time stepping up into the trolley.

The mobile wheelchair lift was custom made for the Museum by Adaptive Engineering, Inc. whose list of customers include Amtrak; New Jersey Transit; the MBTA (Mass.); and numerous historic rail operators including the Strasburg Railroad, Napa Valley Wine Tours, Rocky Mountain Rail Tours and the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum.

The mobile wheelchair lift was funded with the support of the Cigna Foundation and by two Donor Advised funds at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving — The Vernon and Edith Roosa Family Foundation and Anonymous Fund No. 38.

The museum’s Executive Director Gina Maria Alimberti said, “We are excited to be able to provide this new service which is one of the many improvements and activities at the museum that we have been undertaking to better serve our current visitors and to attract many more new ones.

Workers look at progress being made as the first mobile wheelchair lift gets installed at the Connecticut Trolley Museum.

Connecticut Trolley Museum photo

East Windsor East Windsor

Honor roll

EAST WINDSOR — These students were named to the fourth-quarter honor roll at East Windsor Middle School.

Grade 8

High honors: Vanessa Bart, Jainil Bhatt, Makayla Clark, Isabella Graham, Kevin Grisales, Cooper King, Madeline Knisley, Jace Kusy, Lukas LaBelle, Cody Lentner, Malakhi Leuzzi, Rylee Macsata, Nadia Mohammed, Jacob Steele, Ian Thompson, William Towers, David Wojcik.

Honors: Alyvia Arnett, Kyle Arzt, Isabelle Bancroft, Landon Boice, Johnathan Corsetti, Jonathan Macri, Cassidy Miller, Cayla Pearson, Oralee Scott, Zahira Woodson.

Grade 7

High honors: Maxwell Betancourt, Emma Carter, Sara Daigle, Kassie Keyes, Giuliana Lagana, Gianna Sigleski, Wyatt Temple.

Honors: Aalieyha Askew, Isaiah Crespo, William Ferrick, Skyla

Gonzalez, Donald Howard, Kidest Kassa, Kylie Keyes, Maeve Kittredge, Cody Lefelar, Kelly Lemus-Herrera, Evan Mader, Jalexis Mercado, Lena Misluk, Julius Muhumuza, Jason Neill, Dorian Ribeiro, Francis Scheuermann, Kirk Taylor, Anna Whetton, Ava Young.

Grade 6

High honors: Amora Cazarez, Jack Clifford, Natalie Dionne, Benjamin Ferrick, Riley Hernandez, Kendall Johns, Emily Kolodziej, Serenity Leuzzi-Moore, Tierney Mehan, Jameson Parent, Jacob Provost, Isabella Rosales, Thirunavukarasu Sivaganesh, Darius Turcin, Natalie VanGasbeck.

Honors: Kylie Batholomew, Kendall Boulay, William Braman, Liam Briggs, Blake Castor, Christopher Clark, Londynn Clark, Mikaela Diaz-Martinez, Christopher Godin, Madison Griffin, Giana Guzie, Ryan Hallett, Ryan Hernandez, Victoria Hutchins, Beniam Kassa, Abigail King, David Moran, John Moran, AnnaLai Navaroli, Elyse Nordell, Mia Phillips, Collin Raymond, Logan Schoolcraft, Lorelai

Standish, Delaney Tepper, Victoria Vazquez, Micah Vong.

Grade 5

High honors: Robert Belforti, Jacob Blanchard, Michael Dziadul, Berra Gocmez, Jackson James, Brayden Macsata, Zoe McNamara, Aliyah Mohammed, Nana Adwoa Nyarko, Sabrina Ortiz, Olivia Page, Eloise Rocca, Eleanor Streeter-Winn, Taylor Thielman, Angelous Walton, Nora Whalen.

Honors: Yanndiel Adorno, Sharice Alphonse, Sophia Alvarado, Lilliana Anderson, Ethan Aponte, Lizbeth Baker, Jacob Bancroft, Jameson Barber, Mason Burdick, Addison Coughlin, Jeremiah Crespo, Olyvia Davis, Christina Ferreira, Delilah

Gagnon, Mackenxie Guilbe, Charlotte

Hebert, Ryder Henry, Neidhan

Hernandez, John Hulevitch , Noah

Kassa, Nathan Khner, Alyssa King, Avery Marschall, Gabriella Mendez, Ela Ortak, Armani Ortiz, Brooklyn

Pouncey, Olivia Purcell, Samantha Robinson, Sienna Rodriguez, Jayliannis Rosa, Brian Small, Avery Towers, Mikaela Wetherell.

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 To The Publisher

Jen Phillips

Account Executives

Gary Carra Sr.

Joan ornbucle

Contribut

Community

Ellington Ellington

First Selectwoman’s Corner

Tending to the trails; Jacob’s Arena

We recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony, right, for Jacob’s Arena at Robert Tedford Memorial Park, a dek hockey rink built in honor of Jacob Poulin, who died of a rare brain tumor in 2016. The Jacob Roger Poulin Foundation has been working tirelessly in the years since to build a park in Jacob’s memory to incorporate some of his favorite things, including hockey, for others to enjoy. Below, Ellington Trails Committee once again partnered with Key Bank, sate Rep. Jaime Foster, and me to hold this year’s “Neighbors Make a Difference Day” in June, where many dedicated volunteers assisting with building bridges, mulching trails, and more. Thank you so much to everyone who got involved and helped improve our great trails.

Lori Spielman

Ellington First Selectwoman’s Office photos

Ellington Ellington

It’s a grand day for Knights’ grads

HOUSE FOR RENT

3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1,300 sqft Enfield CT $1,975/mo3

1st Fl laundry, stove, dishwasher,

area, oil heat, Swedish fireplace and open floor plan, 2 FULL baths. NEW heating/ central air unit installed. 5 min to Rte 91 access, 20 minutes to Hartford and 15 minutes to Springfield. Applicants MUST HAVE 700 FICO CREDIT score and proof of credit score and verified before showing of property . NO PETS/ NO SMOKERS. Need good past references and verifiable income. Available July 1st . Two months security, one year lease. Owner/Agent

Tenant pays all UTILITIES and SEWER. Tenant insurance required on move-in. Only inquires if you have 700 CREDIT SCORE and qualified income.

Call Keating Realty at (860) 745-2030

Photos by David Lenz / Lenz Photography

Above, exchange student Lidia Cirillo addresses the crowd; below, Principal John Guidry.

Three bedroom lovely ranch, oversized two car garage, totally fenced in yard, large kitchen, all neutral colors.

and refrigerator excellent condition. Dining

Valedictorian Annika Stimac delivers her remarks.

Kyle Lunsford, left, and Jacob Kindall react after receiving their diplomas. Below, the grads celebrate.

State Representative Round-up

There are many ways to support local agriculture

On the last day of the 2023 session, I brought a giant box of strawberries from Dzen’s Market in Ellington to the House Chamber to share with fellow legislators. I did so with a message: Please support local agriculture this summer. One of my last successes of the 2023 session was passing a bipartisan amendment that allows an existing pool of DoAg money to be used to aid farmers with weather-related losses.

Farmers, including many in the 57th District, suffered from severe frosts in February and May that devastated fruit growth. Supporting them through these tough times is what keeps local farm-fresh foods available to us. If they don’t farm, we don’t have local food in our communities. There are many ways to support your local farms:

Shop local farmers markets. One-stop shopping for fruits, vegetables, meats, flow-

ers, and more. Ellington’s farmers market runs from May to October at Arbor Park on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to noon. There are nearly 100 markets operating in Connecticut, so you can find one close to you to support.

Consider taking part in a CSA. A CSA is a community-supported form of agriculture, which means buying a share directly from a farm — a membership or subscription, if you will — during the growing season. Besides fruits and vegetables, some CSAs offer eggs, honey, plants or cut flowers, meat, and dairy

products. There are several local CSAs, but one I can share info about is Garden of Eat’n in Ellington run by the Rothe family, where the Fosters are CSA shareholders. This year we’ve gotten beautiful berries, rhubarb, Swiss chard, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, kohlrabi, and bok choy. Syme Family Farm in Broad Brook offers a flower CSA that we are participating in for our second year. The Modern Milkman, the brainchild of Seth Bahler in Ellington, delivers around the region and offers many options to choose

from, including baked goods from Luann’s Bakery, milk from Oakridge Dairy, cheeses, and more, through a partnership with farms and small businesses in the state. Visit a pick-your-own farm. There are pick-your-own options, such as strawberries and blueberries at Dzen’s on the East Windsor/South Windsor line, apples at Johnny Appleseed’s in Ellington (fall), strawberries at Starvish Farms in East Windsor, fruits and vegetables at Draghi Farm in East Windsor, pumpkins and mums (fall) at Windy Hill Farms in Broad Brook, and more. Support meat producers. Farms can also offer a variety of fresh meats, like beef, chicken, turkey, pork, etc. Allard Family Farm in East Windsor has fresh chicken and eggs and is often at the Ellington Farmers Market. Charter Acres Beef and JT Farms have local beef, too. Supporting local agriculture is good for everyone —as the consumer, you know where your food comes from, and with your support, the farms continue to be sustainable.

Prescription Glasses

Jaime Foster

Rep. Jaime Foster with Reps. Amy Morrin Bello and Kate Farrar on June 7.

A month of celebration and community

ENFIELD —

There are lots of great activities happening this summer and I hope that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy some of them

Here are some of the highlights:

• The Town Council and the Culture and Arts Commission has kicked off a Summer Concert Series every Tuesday night from 7 to 9 p.m.

The concerts are held in the new Higgins Park area, to the rear of Town Hall. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy some of the most popular bands in the region.

Higgins Park is ADA accessible with a paved walk from the parking lot. There are also a rotation of food trucks that will be at the concerts.

Families can also send the kids off to the playground, or if you are ambitious, you can get your steps in on the path while you listen to the music. In the even of rain, the concerts shift to Wednesday.

Funding has been provided from the Culture & Arts Commission budget for events, as well as an allocation from the ARPA line item.

• The town is also gearing up for the return of the townwide Fourth of July Celebration which is scheduled for July 7, 8 and 9, culminating with a spectacular fireworks show on Sunday night.

Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, this year’s event will feature another great musical lineup on the stage, as well as children’s activities, food, demonstrations and a ton of vendors.

Come down and spend time with your neighbors for this All-American weekend.

To plan your time, visit www.enfieldcelebration.org

• The Town Green will also be hosting its weekly Crafter and Vendor Show each Sunday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. showcasing a variety of talented artists and entrepreneurs offering a variety of goods and services, rotating food trucks and hopefully, an occasional farmer (see related story).

• And lastly, a shoutout to the Senior Center on its 20th anniversary.

On a related note, the Town Council wants Enfield residents to be able to age in place, in their homes and near their families and community activities.

We also recognize that many of them are on fixed incomes, so the town has voted to expand eligibility for the Senior & Elderly Tax Credit up to $60,000, as well as added a $400 Senior Volunteer Tax Credit.

These credits will be seen on the July 1, 2024 tax bill.

For more information on whether you qualify, please check the website or talk to the Senior Center, Social Services, or Assessor’s Office staff.

There are many opportunities to volunteer for the community by serving on a board or commission and help direct the policies and future decisions.

These hours also qualify for the Senior Tax Credit hours.

Please visit the Town website or call the Town Manager’s office at 860-2536350 to see where your time and talent may be put to good use.

Crafter, vendor market runs through October

ENFIELD — The Enfield Crafter & Vendor Market runs every Sunday through Oct. 29 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Enfield Town Green (820 Enfield St.).

“Not only is this a great outdoor activity on a Sunday, it is also an opportunity to promote local vendors and at-home entrepreneurs by giving them a place to showcase their work,” Mayor Bob Cressotti said.

Those who are interested in being a vendor should complete the application form at www.enfield-ct.gov through the town manager page.

There is no charge for vendors to participate.

Friday 3:00pm - 1:00am

Saturday 12:00pm - 1:00am

Sunday 12:00pm - 9:00pm

*kitchen closes 10:30pm Mon - Sat Mon - Thu 3:00pm - 11:00pm

328 East Street

Stafford Springs, CT 06076

860.684.4086

STARTERS

SANDWICHES

FREE Fried Pickle Appetizer

with purchase of two entrees. Expires 3 , 2023. One per customer.

FRIED PICKLES

Seasoned and deep fried pickle chips served with house-made sriracha limeranch sauce

GRILLED CHICKEN QUESADILLA

Grilled marinated chicken or steak (sub $3), monterey jack cheese, black beans, pico de gallo, served with side of sour cream and housemade sriracha lime ranch sauce

CHEESY SIDEWINDER FRIES

Sidewinder fries, melted cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives, served withsour cream or house-made ranch dressing. Add jalapeños $1

CHICKEN TENDERS

6 deep fried breaded chicken tenders, served with fries, and choice ofhouse-made honey mustard, ranch, buffalo sauce, or bbq

CHICKEN WINGS

10 deep fried chicken wings, side of blue cheese or ranch, celery sticks. Choice of mild or hot buffalo, sweet Asian chili, or bbq sauce

FRIED PORK SLIDERS

3 deep fried pork tenderloin, lettuce, tomato, caramelized onions, toppedwith our house-made sriracha lime ranch sauce

CHILI / SOUP DU JOUR

Chili topped with cheddar cheese and red onion

BURGERS & CHICKEN SANDWICHES

Our signature burger patty: a blend of brisket, chuck, and short rib. Served with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and side of pickle chips. Your choice of: tots, fries, coleslaw, potato chips. Sub baked beans $2. Double patty $5

AJ’S STILLWATER BURGER

Cheddar cheese, bacon slices, grilled egg, hashbrowns, fried onion straws, topped with hot sauce, served on a brioche roll

BACON CHEESEBURGER

Bacon strips, cheddar cheese, served on a brioche roll

THE SPEEDWAY MELT

Cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, house-made thousand island dressing, served on grilled marble rye bread

SOUTHWESTERN VEGGIE BURGER

C aramelized onions, chipotle aioli, served on a brioche roll

CHICKEN SANDWICHES

Served with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and side of pickle chips. Choice of: tots, fries, coleslaw, potato chips. Sub baked beans ($2)

BRIAN’S CHICKEN BACON RANCH

Marinated grilled or fried chicken topped with cheddar cheese, bacon slices, house-made ranch dressing

NASHVILLE CHICKEN

S pice it up with our fried chicken and house-made Nashville sauce

MYO CHICKEN SANDWICH

Marinated grilled or fried chicken. Your choice of sweet Asian chili, topped with sesame seeds and chives, buffalo sauce or bbq

$5.00 OFF purchase of $25 or more. Expires 3 , 2023. One per customer/per table.

Excludes alcohol.

NICOLE’S CHICKEN PARMESAN

Fried chicken and our homemade marinara sauce, buffalo mozzarella on a sub roll

WRAPS & SPECIALTIES

Choice of: tater tots, fries, coleslaw, potato chips. Sub baked beans add $2. Choice of wrap: white, spinach, or gluten free ($2)

CHICKEN CAESAR WRAP.

Marinated grilled or fried chicken, romaine, parmesan cheese, croutons, tossed in our house-made caesar dressing

NASHVILLE CHICKEN WRAP

Fried chicken and our homemade Nashville sauce, romaine, red onion and diced tomatoes

TURKEY BACON WRAP

Fresh roasted turkey, romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, and our house made ranch dressing

ROASTED VEGETABLE

Seasoned and grilled zucchini, summer squash, caramelized onion, andtomato, with a balsamic glaze drizzle served on a gluten free wrap. Addchicken $4

Choice of: tater tots, fries, coleslaw, potato chips. Sub baked beans add $2

TURKEY CLUB

Fresh roasted turkey, mayo, romaine, sliced tomato, bacon slices, housemade honey mustard, on 3 slices of toasted sour dough

STILLWATER SLOPPY JOE’S

Our signature ground beef marinated in bbq sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese, served on a brioche roll. Add caramelized onions or jalapenos for $1

REUBEN

Grilled fresh corned beef, sauerkraut, 1000 island dressing, swiss cheese on grilled marble rye

SPECIALTIES

Choice of: tater tots, fries, coleslaw, potato chips. Sub baked beans add $2

AG’S STREET TACOS

Marinated chicken or steak (sub $3), homemade black beans, monterey jack cheese, fried onion straws, pico de gallo, on 3 grilled corn tortillas, and our house-made sriracha lime ranch sauce

BURRITO BOMB

Marinated chicken or steak (sub $3), house-made black beans, hashbrowns, monterey jack cheese, picante peppers, sour cream, and our house-made sriracha lime ranch sauce

WISCONSIN BRATS

Beer basted Wisconsin brats served with your choice of sauerkraut or caramelized onions, and your choice of mustard or spicy tartar sauce. Served on a grilled pretzel roll

CHICKEN & WAFFLES

4 deep fried chicken tenders served on our buttermilk waffle, topped with fresh bacon bits, chives and our house-made chipotle aioli sauce and a drizzle of local maple syrup. No side.

SALADS

House-Made Dressings: Ranch, Blue Cheese, Honey Mustard, Balsamic Vinaigrette, Thousand Island, Sriracha Lime Ranch, Caesar Add: Chicken $5, Steak $7, Salmon $6

HOUSE SALAD

Romaine lettuce, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, red onion, croutons and choice of house-made dressing

HOUSE CAESAR

Romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, croutons and mixed with our housemade caesar dressing

TACO SALAD

Marinated chicken served over romaine, monterey jack cheese, pico de gallo, black beans, and onion straws with sriracha lime ranch. Sub Steak $7

AMY’S CHICKEN SALAD

Marinated grilled or fried chicken, served over romaine lettuce, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, red onion, egg, bacon bits, and croutons

SOUP

& SALAD

Your choice of chili or soup du jour and a small house or caesar salad

ENTREES

Served with your choice of house or caesar salad and One side: tater tots, fries, baked beans or seasoned vegetables. Add: Salmon $6, Chicken $5, Caramelized Onions $2

MYO CHICKEN ENTREE

2 marinated grilled or fried chicken breasts with your choice of sweet asian chili topped with sesame seeds and chives, buffalo, or bbq

8OZ SIRLOIN

Hand tenderized sirloin steak with special house seasoning. add sautéed onions $2

8OZ NY STRIP

Special house seasoning. Add sautéed onions $2

SEASONED GRILLED SALMON

Seasoned grilled salmon topped with lemon butter

SOUTHERN FRIED CATFISH

3 pieces of cornmeal-breaded, deep fried catfish served with our housemade spicy tartar sauce

Regional Regional

Kissel votes for budget that includes tax relief

HARTFORD — Sen. John A. Kissel, R-Enfield, voted in favor of a balanced budget that provides historic tax relief, increases school aid, and supports municipalities while abiding by the state’s bipartisan fiscal guardrails.

“While I would have preferred less spending and more tax relief, this budget offers plenty of positives for the residents of north-central Connecticut,” Kissel said. “It provides the first state income tax cuts in three decades, and those tax cuts will ease burdens for working and middle class fami-

Rotary honorees

This year’s Paul Harris Fellows were recently honored at Suffield Country Club. This is the highest award a Rotary Club can bestow upon those who exemplify “Service Above Self.” This year’s recipients, from left, are Heidi Partain, Kacy Colson and Gayle Demko.

lies. That income tax relief was a priority for Connecticut Republicans.

“The budget boosts aid to schools and towns, which also was our priority and is good news for students, parents, teachers and property taxpayers. It maintains the bipartisan spending caps and budgetary guardrails that Republicans pushed to implement back in 2017. Those limitations on our government spending have helped create our current surplus, improve our credit rating and reduce debt. Spending discipline has led us to a point where we are cutting people’s taxes, and if we stay disciplined and keep our spending in check, we can reduce taxes even further in the future.”

100 Women Who Care donates to Become Part of the Solution

VERNON — Become Part of the Solution recently received a donation of $3700 from 100 Women Who CareNorth Central Connecticut.

BPS is a unique, all volunteer, community based, nonprofit outreach organization based in VernonRockville that was formed to help provide inpatient acute care, post-inpatient rehabilitation, and post-rehabilitation housing for alcoholics and addicts who are in need.

BPS was founded in 1991 by Chris Luginbuhl of Rockville and Smokey Orcutt, a former drug and alcohol counselor at Rockville General Hospital. Orcutt had been having difficulty getting people into treatment because those in need were either uninsured or underinsured.

He and Luginbuhl formed Become Part of the Solution, a part of Union Congregational Church in Rockville, to help the area’s sick and suffering gain access to treatment.

Since that time, they have spon-

sored well over a hundred people seeking help with their alcohol or addiction issues.

Become Part of the Solution is a virtual outreach organization with no paid staff and no overhead.

100% of all donations go toward providing care for alcoholics and addicts who are in need.

Luginbuhl accepted the award, stating “Become Part Of the Solution is very grateful to 100 Women Who Care for this donation. 100% will help men and women get into sober housing if they have the willingness. In 20222023, we have been blessed to give out 141 scholarships. God Is Good.”

100 Women Who Care-North Central CT is a philanthropic organization with over 600 chapters throughout the world. Inspired by the influence of their collective resources, the group meets four times a year to select a charity to receive a contribution.

For more information, contact 100women@cox.net.

Jennifer Holt of 100 Women Who Care; Chris Luginbuhl, Become Part of the Solution founder; Luke Moffitt of BPS; and Caroline Salazar. of 100 WWC as 100 WWC makes a donation to BPS.

100 Women Who Care photo

John Kissel

Rotary Club photo

EHS celebrates its grad Class of ’23

Photos by Brittany King

Enfield Enfield

Easterseals program a win-win for trainee, business

By Laura B. Hayden

When a local business partners with Easterseals CREC Career Development Services for limited workers, it’s mutually advantageous for both the employee and employer.

Earlier this year an Enfield business reaped the benefit of free labor when it participated in the organization’s Trial Work Experience program, while Easterseals paid the limited trainee for his work.

Dan Bracken, director of Easterseals Career Development Services, likes to share the story of trainee Evan Monahan who has a deep desire to work but experiences limitations from cerebral palsy.

“When Evan joined the program in 2022, he was immediately chosen as a good fit for trial work experience,” Bracken said.

Upon completing pre-employment soft-skills training, to was then referred for a trial work experience at Touch of Class Auto Detailing in Enfield.

“Jose Rosado, owner, was welcoming and supportive — a true example of a

business owner dedicated to inclusivity in the workplace,” said Bracken.

Monahan did very well through his 40 hours of training at Touch of Class Auto Detailing, discovering that he liked janitorial work as well as detailing cars.

According to Bracken, one could see a positive change in Monahan’s selfesteem by the time the trial was complete.

Touch of Class Auto Detailing owner Rosado agreed. “It was a very good experience.”

Easterseals believes everyone who wants to work should have the opportunity to do so in a meaningful way. Its Career Development Services team helps individuals build their skills, continue their education, find meaningful employment and provides support throughout the employment process to both employees and employers.

For more information or to get started with Easterseals Career Development Services contact Bracken at 860-2700600, x212. He can also be reached by email at dbracken@escrec.org.

ACC cosmetology/hairdressing course gets underway in August

ENFIELD—Asnuntuck Community College is offering a 54-week cosmetology (hairdressing) program that begins Aug. 21.

The program offers small class sizes offering students personal attention from instructors.

Students receive training in both theory and practical experience which prepares them to take the Connecticut State Board examination.

To obtain a license in Connecticut, students must successfully complete 1,500 hours in hairdressing and cosmetology education, as well as pass the state of Connecticut exam.

Asnuntuck’s program includes 200 hours of classroom instruction and 1,300 hours of clinical instruction which trains students to provide a wide variety of services including cuts, highlights, color, and blowouts.

Students can apply for Massachusetts Cosmetology licensure after earning

licensure in Connecticut.

For more information on the cosmetology program, visit https://asnuntuck.edu/program_page/c osmetology/.

Asnuntuck hosts its own spa and salon which provides the public with various services in the clinic throughout the year, allowing Asnuntuck students to have hands-on work experience. To learn more and/or register call 860-253-3028 or email ASContinuingEd@acc.commnet.edu.

Evan Monahan took part in Easterseals Trial Work Experience program with Touch of Class Auto Detailing.

Easterseals photo

Random Raven Random Raven

Don’t wing it for holiday, Winger it instead

By Gary Carra

Welcome back to Random Raven … albeit, the most unusual installment ever inked.

You see, dear readers, while this column has evolved into a reliable rendering of all things travel and entertainment, the original concept called for a more wide-ranging, interactive exchange of information and ideas.

Don’t get the Raven wrong. Entertainment options will always be abundant here. In fact, he’d be remiss not to mention Enfield’s annual ode to Independence.

The town’s annual Fourth festivities will occur on the Town Green July 7-9 this year. A mix of edibles courtesy of area eateries and “cents-less” acts of audio —i.e. free concerts — it’s easy to see why the Raven regularly attends this local gem. As usual, this year’s entertainment line-up pits local notables like Aquanett (July 7), Darik and the Fun Bags (July 8) and Trailer Trash (July 9), with nationals ranging from Winger (July 8) and The Michael Allman Band (July 9).

For the full schedule, kindly turn your browser to enfieldcelebration.org

As for travel, perhaps it was also the Raven’s recent return from Bermuda that is the impetus for this month’s “And now for something completely

different” format.

Hope you enjoy and a special thanks to Friendship Tours —specifically our friends, Donna Milliken and Eve Magoon for making that cruise happen — and happening!

RAVEN-OUS FOOD REMEDY:

An old-school tip for those fortunate to be opening up their summer homes. Sure, the fridge seems to be humming nicely after the long winter. And everything in the freezer certainly seems

frozen. But how do you know, with any certainty, that there wasn’t a power outage, everything spoiled, than refroze? Just listen to the Raven’s beach neighbor Jimmy. “Here’s whattaya do,” Jimmy explained when the same query was posed in the communal courtyard many moons ago. “You take a da cup, fill with water, and you putta in the freezer. When it freezes, take a penny, putta da penny on top. If it’s on a da top when you come back, it’s a good. If it’s a on da bottom. Dat’sa no good!”

Once again, the live music organizers of Enfield’s annual ode to the Fourth of July prove that they were far from “winging it” when it came to putting together the 2023 line-up. Need proof? Platinum recording artists Winger.

Courtesy Photo

Somers High graduates throw their mortarboards in celebration after their 2023 commencement in the high school gym on June 9.

Somers High graduate Robin Gaskell enters the school gym along with her fellow classmates.

Above, Somers High graduates light up some cigars after the commencement. Below, Deidre Dalessio reacts as she enters the school gym along with her fellow classmates.

Somers

Honor roll

SOMERS — These students were named to the third term honor roll at Mabelle B. Avery Middle School.

Grade 8

High honors: Alicia Bernier, Emma Besta, Jonathan Breton, Parker Byo, Jacob Carra, Carolyn Castonguay, Logan Caye, Katelyn Curran, Charlee Cyr, Linus Dandurand, Faith DeMars, Edward DePeau IV, Aja Drammeh, Alexander Gallacher, Tyler Hale, Matthew Halmers, Jacoby Hawkins, Aubrielle Hevey, Samuel Hicking, Damien Huestis, Lainey Joyal, Callie

Kobjack, Alexa Kukulka, Luke Lessard, Hannah Litz, Madeline Marcoux, Alexis McCauley, Scarlett Montemerlo, Sophia Mosher, Sydney Pinney, Lila Prayzner, Jamison Reardon, Kaelina Rinaldi, Aiden Ritch, Jayden Root, Alexa Thiesing, Hunter Tomalonis, Brodie White, Alexandra Wolters.

Honors: Irene Anderson, Georgia Asselin, Collin Brosseau, Abigail Cardwell, Addison Cassidy, Addison Corbin, Isaac Diaz, Sophia Doodby, Drew Emlen, Gavin Glynn, Logan Fritze, Hadley Hogan, Maxwell KelleherSlocum, Eva Kierstead, Aubrina Kizis, Connor Levin, Gabriella Martins, Ava McGuire, Liam Obernesser, Harold

Riddle, Addison Riggins, Connor Ritch, Ella Ryll, Lucile Santanella, Tyson Steele, Conor Warnock.

Grade 7

High honors: Samuel Balestriere, Emma Brown, Wiliam Burdick, Christopher Burzynski, Ajalicia Caetano, Juliana Cianci, Connor Clarity, Samantha D’Amour, Michael Fay, Lily Fitzgerald, Ryan Guerin, Aiden Hevey, Ryan Hoague, Tyler Knight-Temple, Peter Krzywicki, Cooper Leiphart, Jacob Marks, Logan McGuinness, Owen Mira, Peyten Modzelewski, Lila Munsell, Bridget Nosal, Jacob Ruggiero, Mya Shonak, Adele S. Laurent, Mia Steele,

‘Little Free Library’

Addison Tabb, Benjamin Wetherington, Sophia Wojanowski.

Honors: Wes Asselin, Jasmine Barnaby, Hutton Benoit, Colin Clark, Brennyn Connors, Jhadiel Cruz, Benjamin Dennis, Cora Dolben, Jayden Donnelly, Ari Dultz, Nolan Fitzgerald, Drew Gosselin, Ayden Guerra, Samuel Haraga, Lucas Illuzzi, Cali Ingalls, Nolan LaBua, Alasdair Liggett, Mia Malley, Miranda McGuire, Haileigh Percoski, J’Enid Perez, Grant Pinney, Julien Ramos, Aleta Santerre, Kate Smith, Mackenzie Smith, Andres Stebbins, Dana Storozuk, Marshall Thomas, Luke Wilson, Mason Wohlers, Sarah Wood, Jackson Yukimura.

Thanks to Eliana Wood, Somers has a new "Little Free Library" at the Pavilion at Connor’s Place. This library will be available to everyone in the community to either take a book, leave a book, or both. The library will help improve accessibility to literary sources for people of all ages. Thanks to all who supported Eliana and donated to her Go Fund Me to make this project possible.

The Rotary Club of Somers hosted its 51st annual Fishing Derby at the Blake Center for Faith and Freedom on May 27.

Rotary Club photo

Hillsdale College hosts annual Fishing Derby

SOMERS — The Rotary Club of Somers hosted its 51st annual Fishing Derby at the Blake Center for Faith and Freedom on May 27. The derby honored the memory of Paul Monstello, a former member of the Somers Rotary Club.

“Hillsdale College was delighted to host the 51st Annual Somers Rotary Fishing Derby at the Blake Center for Faith and Freedom,” said Labin Duke, executive director of the Blake Center “It was a record turnout with about 200 people in attendance. And we look forward to hosting the event again in future years.”

Old New Gate looking new again after renovations

EAST GRANBY – Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine

celebrated the completion of its renovation on June 18.

The renovation project included the restoration of the museum entryway, the construction of a new picnic area, and installation of new exhibits.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the completion of this important renovation project,” Museum Curator Morgan Bengel said. “Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine is a valuable part of Connecticut’s history, and this project will help to ensure that it is preserved for future generations.”

“The renovation of Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine is a great example of how we can preserve our history while also making it more accessible to the public,” East Granby First Selectwoman Eden Wimpfheimer said. “I encourage everyone to come out and celebrate the completion of this project.”

“Congratulations to Friends of Old Newgate on completing such an ambitious project that welcomes visitors to visit the museum with a beautiful and accessible new walk and landscaping – and encourages them to stay and enjoy the view from the new picnic tables,” state Rep. Tami Zawistowski said. “Old Newgate is a historically important part of our region and the state as a whole, and to have a group like the Friends supporting visitor-friendly improvements makes it an even greater asset to our local communities.”

‘Nip Patrol’ at work

Members of Opportunity Works

Connecticut’s “Nip Patrol’ were hard at work in Vernon recently picking up litter and empty nip bottles of alcohol. Vernon has allocated a portion of the money the town receives from the 5 cent surcharge on nip bottles of liquor to fund litter collection by Opportunity Works.

Thurs.

Thurs. July 13th 5:30pm Early

Thurs. July 20th 5:30pm Early Bird Auction 7:00pm Estate Auction

Thurs. July 27th 5:30pm

Town of Vernon photo

At the ribbon-cutting at the restored Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine, from left, Morgan Bengel, Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine curator; state Rep. Tami Zawistowski; Bob Ravens-Seger, Friends of Old New Gate president; Paul Thulen, Friends of Old New Gate secretary; and Eden Wimpfheimer, East Granby first selectwoman.

Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine photo

Dr. Scott D. Morey • Dr. Heidi L. Morey

Collin Gudeman, Drew Ledbetter, Will Campbell, Zack Donovann on June 9. Jennifer Ledbetter photo

ISABELLA ARTEAGA

Stafford Area Community Services - Thrift Shop

Catholic Daughter’s of America - Anna Hurchala

John E. Festi

Ann E. Phelps

Stafford SeamstressAuypon “Dang” McBrien

Marjorie P. Dobson

Robert Barber

Stephen B. Skelton

Janet Hopko

Stafford Rotary ClubDr. Wendelin G. Luckner

EMILY BOYLE

Gary E. Shearer

Emily L. & John R. Sullivan

Marla Sullivan

Robert F. Klecak

Ephrain & Marion Mirza

Alexander Warren

Staffordville Elementary School

Elmo & Marjorie Serafin

CSF General Reserve Fund

Estate of John M. Patten

RYAN BOYLE

Stafford Rotary Club – Robert Campbell

Estate of John M. Patten

Marc D. Magrone

Stafford Savings Bank

Stafford Lions Club Memorial – Armand

J. & Mildred Cambria, Silvio S. DaDalt,

Albert A. DeNunzio, Orlando Francini, Michael J. Gregorio, R. Price Milam, Sylvan A. Tetrault, Robert R. Bourque

LINDSAY BRIGGS

Arima O. Campo

Stafford Women’s Club

Ruth K. Matteson Gnutti

Alexander Paolini

Penny Hanley & Howley

- Anna Chilkowitch

Gladys Oehler

William Frank Oehler

Marc D. Magrone

Alexander D. MacDonnell

William F. Richards

Celebrates 61 Years serving the Youth of Stafford and Union

Citizens’ Scholarship Foundation of Stafford Springs was founded in 1962 for the purpose of awarding scholarships to assist students from Stafford and Union seeking education beyond the secondary level. With this year’s award of $150,000 to 25 young people, the foundation has awarded $2,360,000 to 1,727 students. Contributions are greatly appreciated and can be designated to one of the existing funds or to the CSF of Stafford Springs General Fund. They may be sent to:

CSF of Stafford Springs, c/o Krista A. Hicks, P.O. Box 25, Stafford Springs, CT 06076

WILLIAM CAMPBELL

Marty & Cindy Galotto

Stafford Savings Bank

John W. Zelz

Bruce L. Beaupre

Heuitson Family Scholarship

Program Fund

Stafford High School - Class of 1986

Stafford Lions Club Memorial – Armand

J. & Mildred Cambria, Silvio S. DaDalt,

Albert A. DeNunzio, Orlando Francini,

Michael J. Gregorio, R. Price Milam,

Sylvan A. Tetrault, Robert R. Bourque

ELIAS CAMPOS

Stafford Rotary Club

- Mario A. Posocco

Willington Nameplate Inc.

Wolcott Lodge #60

Tina McEwan

Victoria Hine

Stafford Springs Congregational Church

First Universalist Church of Stafford

Jeremy Bergeron

Mary Muzio Chamberlain

Mildred P. DeCarli

RAINA CARO

Rosanne G. Roszczewski

Marilyn C. & Raphael A. Bachiochi

Nicholas H. Booth

Ronnie DaRos

Barbara-Ann Kenny Elderkin

David Hirsch

Roscoe & Charlotte Hillebrecht

Michael & Vickie Julian

Joseph J. Panciera

Christopher M. Moquin

CAMRON CRUZ

Benedict & Josephine Schwanda

Charles W. & Jean C. Schwanda

Benjamin P. & Marguerite M. Cooley

Stafford Rotary Club - Robert B. Schwanda

Sylvan A. Tetrault

Judy M. Webb

Big Y Foods

Eleanore Knowlton Stramiello

Cuno, Inc.

Stafford Rotary Club

COLIN EGAN

Warren Corp

Warren Corp Employees

Jason A. McQuaid

Stafford High School -Class of 2014

Stafford Rotary Club - William Sorensen

Spallacci Family Fund

Benjamin A., Dianne C. & Mitchell A. Muzio

Bruno A. & Anna Muzio Family Trust

William N. Irving

Timothy Hartley-Zigadlo

KAITLYN GAUDET

Katie M. Waugh

Shelly Vogel

Reno & Lillian Tonoli

Victoria Tonoli

Bernard & Josephine Armstrong

Benjamin Arnold

Stafford Grange No. 1

Florence Mae & Charles Stevens

Stafford Crusaders

Stafford Band Boosters

JORDAN HUNTLEY

VFW Auxiliary Post 9990 - Robert A. Titus, Jr.

John & Matilda A. Spusta Festi & Edward John Festi

Robert Sullivan

Reno & Lillian Tonoli

Estate of John M. Patten

Marc D. Magrone

ISABELLA IRWIN

Ronald L. Campo, Jr.

Stafford Rotary Club - Etalo “Pic” Gnutti

James Prenetta

CSEA Local 2001 Stafford Chapter

CSF of Stafford Springs Awards Committee

Richard H. Willis

Windham/Tolland 8 & 40 - Kathleen Ann Dombek

James Panciera

SIERRA JONES

Arlene D. Allard

Stafford Arts Commission

Ronald Pirkey

Therese G. Fishman

Mary Ellen Glover

Salvatrice “Sally” Italia

Stafford Rotary Club - Earl Witt

Remington Family Program

American Legion Post #26 Auxiliary

Stafford Savings Bank

DREW LEDBETTER

Peter F. Locke, Jr.

Stafford High School - Class of 2006

Knights of Columbus Council 1395

North American Printed Circuits

Employees

Package Machinery Co.

Lisa Marie Toman

Anthony S. Knowlton

Rev. Kenneth J. Post & John Harker

Tolland Bank

Willington Financial

ALEXA MOREL

Harry & Ida Fontanella

Anna & Arthur Furness, Sr.

Timothy R. Haraghey

Richard Houle

Lisa J. Cercena

Ronald D’Amico

Stafford Savings Bank

KENNEDY MORRIS

Gregory Poland

Shelly Vogel

Donna C. & Francis J. Moriarty

Theresa “Terri” Davis

Burton A. Davis

Jeffrey F. Braun

Tony Costa

Stafford Men’s Softball - Walter DaDalt

Larcene L. “Beenie” Bessette

Stafford Rotary ClubDr. Joseph Amanti

ANDREA MOULTON

Robert Sullivan

Michael Peter Ference & Sandra J. Ference

Robert J. Sr. & Richard Verlik

Bruce L. Beaupre

Stafford Public Health Association

Ellen Champagne Moulton

Jennifer A. Stone

Joshua R. Smialek

West Stafford Parent Teacher’s

Organization

Stafford Rotary Club -

Ronald E. Ambrosi

JAELYN MOULTON

Michael Peter Ference & Sandra J. Ference

Robert J. Sr. & Richard Verlik

Bruce L. Beaupre

Ellen Champagne Moulton

Stafford Fish & Game Club

Marshall “Mushy”& Dorothy O. Bellante

David P. Mitchell

John B. & Bonnie B. Mitchell

Ronald A. Mitchell

Stafford Savings Bank

GABRIEL MROZIK

Stephen E. Galotto

Wayne Gaudreau

Thomas L. Fitzgerald & Gregg T. Fitzgerald

Jerry J. Julian

Robert C. & Nettie S. Lake “BobaNet”

Patricia Lusa

Walter J. & Eunice M. Skopek

Scott C. Stelmak

Leroy Tiziani

Peter A. Wierzbowski, Jr.

MATHEW NEVES

Stafford Rotary Club - Joseph A. Introvigne

Stafford Motor Speedway

Stafford Motor Speedway & New London County Motorcycles

TTM Technologies, Inc

Estate of John M. Patten

Remington Family Program

LUCAS RHOADS

Ellen Senechal

Timothy Beverage

Stafford Seniors Association, Inc.

Italian Benefit - Denis A. Gregory

Linatex of America - Ashworth N. Stull

Attilio R. Frassinelli

Stafford Democrats - Doris Devera

Arthur J. & Julia M. Clapprood

Karl Jacob & Maria Fratz Doldt

Harriet Fiore

HAYLEY SYPHERS

Margaret Maynard

Estate of John M. Patten

First Universalist Church of Stafford

Eric Baker Reno & Lillian Tonoli

ASHLEY TONEY

VFW Auxiliary Post 9990 - Robert A. Titus, Jr.

American Legion Post #26

Roger B. Godin

John E. Julian

Shenipsit Striders - Beth Stage

David W. Baker

Henry J. Tonidandel

Max & Shirley Thiesing

George Turschmann

TTM Technologies, Inc.

SARAH VAIL

Clifford A. & Mary L. Collette

Francis “Jim” Vail

Francis H. “Frank” Curnan & Keith F. Curnan

Stafford Republicans

Paradiso Insurance

F. Joseph Paradiso

Bruce A. DeTora

Zenna Brisson

Eleanore Knowlton Stramiello

Frederick & Jennie Kisselstein

Christopher M. & Mary Alice Paradiso

DEREK WYSE

VFW Post 9990 & Ladies Auxiliary-

Charles Furness

First Universalist Church of Stafford

Reno & Lillian Tonoli

Stafford Savings Bank

Estate of John M. Patten

Ronald D’Amico

Stafford Stafford

Library news

Ongoing programs

Monday Matinees — Every Monday at 2 p.m. in July a different family movie will be screened. Watch our website weekly for titles. Snacks will be provided. Sponsored by the Friends of Stafford Library. No registration is required.

Pop Art! Every Tuesday at 2 p.m. in July, children are invited for a special weekly art program. They can draw on our sidewalks with chalk while enjoying refreshing ice pops. Sponsored by the Friends of Stafford Library. No registration is required.

Upcoming programs

July 11, 6 p.m. —The Birth of Rock and Roll: Songs that Defined an Era. This program will take you back to one of the greatest musical eras in American history. Enjoy video presentations of such artists as Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Little Richard, Fats Domino, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddley and the Everly Brothers with author and pop culture historian Marty Gitlin. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

July 14, 11 a.m. — Princess Visit: The Little Mermaid and the Wayfinder. Join two princesses, The Little Mermaid and The Wayfinder, who will sing, tell stories, and pose for photos with little ones. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

July 18, 6 p.m. — OASIS: Open Art Studio In Stafford: Rock Painting. An all ages art program. Participants will be painting rocks that can be shared, hidden around town, or kept. Members of the Stafford Arts Society will help out. All supplies are provided, but bring rocks if you can. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

July 20, 6 p.m. — Yoga at the Library. Professional instructor Nicolina Sabatini will lead the class. No experience is required. Register at staffordlibrary.org.

July 22, 10:30 a.m. — Read to the Dogs. Children, ages 5 to 12, are invited to read a short story or chapter of a book to the Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs. These friendly pups are trained to be great listeners. Children are encouraged to bring a book from home they are comfortable reading, or they may choose one from the library’s collection. Space is limited and registration is at staffordlibrary.org.

Honor roll

STAFFORD — These students were on the Stafford High School honor roll for the third quarter.

High honors

Seniors: Abigail Aughenbaugh, Thomas Balanceau, Lindsay Briggs, Raina Caro, Kacie Consolini, William DePault, Samuel Formus, Kaitlyn Gaudet, Collin Gudeman, Ciara Hines, Jimi Hubbard, Isabella Irwin, Emily Jensen, Kristine Johnson, Patrick Lusa, Andrea Moulton, Jaelyn Moulton, Mathew Neves, Nyah Nevins, Janette Olan, Meghan Pace, Catherine Paine, Ezekiel Pedraza, Maren Pekrul, Tanijah Ryan, Evan Simlick, Hayley Syphers, Ashley Toney, Joshua Tuller, Hayden Verney, Mikayla Viger, Garik Wojteczko, Derek Wyse.

Juniors: Benjamin Agostinucci, Calvin Bareiss, Gavin Beauchamp, Makenna DeNunzio, Braelyn Fitzgerald, Sofia Frassinelli, Dakotah Gagnon, Kaelie Gladysz, Nathaniel Grady, Halle Gudeman, Riley Kology, Aubrey Langlois, Kristina Lanzieri, Andrew Levesque, Jake Lidwin, Logan Lovley, Dylan Maney, Ava Marossie, Rebecca Minaya, Michael Myron, Lana Norris, Angus Sprague, Gavin Stevens, Ava Strickland, Camryn Sullivan, Natalia Talamini, Demetri Vella, Zoey Zawodniak.

Sophomores: Hunter Adams, Carolyn Beebe, Jacob Bouchard, Allison Broderick,

Duck race planned for July 22

Rylee Conceicao, Anthony Coporale, Nicole Cunha, Kaylib Dorbat, Anna Fahey, Najalyce Granteed, Layla Gustin, Elizabeth Hansen, Kara Hoefle, Molly Merritt, Joshua Ouellette, Daniel Pucci.

Freshmen: Callie Augusto, Jillian Bailey, Juliana Balsewicz, Lillian Bushior, Bella Coporale, Dominic Curnan, Kaylie Davis, Marisol Galiatsos, Kiley Glazier, Talyah Greene, Madelyn Griffin, Alaina Guay, Bryce Gudeman, Emilie Hurley, Gavin Iacobucci, Erica Kearns, Bridget Kula, Colin Ladd, Richard Lavoice, Emma Magistri, Thomas Mayo, Olivia Melanson, Matthew Morse, William Pekrul, Sean Puglisi, Sara Sklenka, Brenten Stevens, Colin Tozier, Jillian Verney.

Honors

Seniors: Ryan Gilluly, Jhatna Mata, Camden Smith, Evan Sokolowski.

Juniors: Jolina Canillas, Cole Hasel, Gannon Howland, Carl Mangold, Bethany Molitoris, Wesley Murdock, Jack Poitras, Lyndsey Sklenka, Gavin Strout, Angelo Vella.

Sophomores: Jerrica Baskerville, Andrew Conceicao, Garrett Fuller, Liam Gilbert, Elissa Munoz, Henry Pace, Alison Panciera, Kaylah Pellegrino, Austin Rockett, Samantha Simlick, Lorenzo Vella.

Freshmen: Jamie Chrzanowski, Elizabeth Ducharme, Alyse McLaughlin, Parker Myron, Austin Pickering, Brodie Smith, Ethan Strout, Yvonne Triska, Jayden Yarrows.

STAFFORD — The Second Congregational Church, in West Stafford will host a mini duck race July 22. A hot dog lunch will be available. Games for youngsters begin at noon, the race starts at 1 p.m. Duck tickets are $5 and will be available the day of the race. For details, call 860-684-5689.

Suffield Suffield

State grant a welcome event for Friends of Farm at Hilltop

HARTFORD — The Friends of Farm at Hilltop, Inc. group has been awarded a $330,000 state grant.

The funds will go toward reimagining the Stroh House as a Welcome and Interpretive Center at Hilltop Farm. The center will invite visitors to learn about the rich agricultural and manufacturing history of this region of the Connecticut River.

The Friends of the Farm at Hilltop owns 11 acres where the “Big White Barn,” outbuildings and former Stroh house sit. The nonprofit leases 60 adjacent, conservation acres from the Town of Suffield through a long term agreement. It has been renovating the buildings and maintaining the property since 2003.

The funds are being released under the state’s Good to Great Grant Program, which is co-administered by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development and CT Humanities. It was established in 2014 with a goal of helping nonprofit arts, cultural, or history organizations enhance visitors’ experiences in engaging, meaningful, and relevant ways.

“The Friends of Farm at Hilltop is a nonprofit organization which has made

Hilltop Farm a fun recreational destination for families to enjoy,” said state Sen. John Kissel, who represents Suffield. “This historic farm has been brought back to life with crops, animals, conservation areas and hands-on learning opportunities. These funds will go toward further enhancing the Hilltop Farm experience for people of all ages.”

Another grant was awarded to the nearby New England Air Museum for $46,000. That grant will allow the museum to build a recording studio to save visitor memories for future generations. The recording studio will allow visitors to share their stories with the museum, react to exhibits, and contribute to future exhibits.

“The New England Air Museum enables people from around the world to discover the possibilities of flight,” Kissel said. “From our earliest aviators to the brave pilots who protected our freedoms and liberties, it’s about their unique stories and the history they helped to create. This recording studio will capture memories as they are made at the museum, and it will further enhance the visitor experience.”

Big honors for Big Brothers Big Sisters

At the recent Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Year Awards Event, more than 200 attendees came together to celebrate Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut and the five state awardees the 57-year-old youth mentoring organization recognized during early evening festivities at the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford. Pictured at the annual awards event are, from left, Andy Fleischmann, President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut; Suffield residents Ted Cutler and his wife, Kim Worthington; and Clarice Cutler, owner of Windsor-based Clarice Cutler Interiors. Ted Cutler is principal and CEO of Tecton Architects and chairman of the Board of Directors at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut.

Big Brothers Big Sisters photo

WANTED TO BUY

ANTIQUES & OLD STUFF

Bottles, crocks, jugs, costume jewelry, pottery, toys, games, glassware, sterling silver, coins, gold, silver plated items, watches, typewriters, sewing machines, tools, radios, clocks, lanterns, lamps, kitchenware, cookware, knives, hunting, 昀shing, military, Masonic, 昀re department, musical instruments, and much more.

Sen. John A. Kissel, New England Air Museum President & CEO Stephanie Abrams and New England Air Museum Curator Nick Hurley. State Sen. John Kissel’s Office photo

The Suffield High School graduation took place on June 10. Far left, Nick Van Cott is ready to walk; left, Mason Arsenault receives his diploma from Board of Education member Melissa Finnigan.

Above, left: Bryanna Tinnirella, valedictorian; right, from left: Timmy Galica; Chris Hannoush; Nick Van Cott; Daniel Robb; Andersen Burrows; Mason Arsenault; Tim Tkacz; Lukas Nick and Tyson Tucker.