Suffield High School Class of 2025 members Josh Zenack (left) and Colin Faber moments before marching into the graduation ceremony June 14 and moving their tassels from right to left. More photos, page 41. Photo courtesy of Rob Faber Photography Ready to
The North Central News loves to hear from its readers, and in the June and July issues we do just that — asking you to vote for your favorites in a multitude of catagories in the annual Best of North Central CT Readers Poll.
Look for the Readers Poll on Page 4 of this issue.
Winners in the poll this year — the 22nd year the North Central News has conducted this survey — will be announced in August.
Gary Carra, Publisher
East Windsor East Windsor
EWHS grads will carry on
Above: Mr. Andrew Masters, Evan Witzke, Mariella Lukasik and Kristina Keyes give Mr. Andrew Mastersa lift during the East Windsor High School graduation ceremony.
Avalon Borra photo
Left: Kristina Keyes and Mariella Lukasik with their diplomas.
Alison Lukasik photo
Trolley Museum sets summer lineup
EAST WINDSOR — The Connecticut Trolley Museum will host a full season of family-friendly summer activities running through Sept. 1. Hands-on stations in the Visitor Center include:
• Trolley Experience — On select trolleys take the controls using your imagination.
• Crafting Station — Create your own motorman hat and trolley fare ticket.
• Scavenger Hunt/I-Spy Challenge — Win a trolley fare token.
• Dress-Up Station — Perfect for photos.
• Fire Truck Museum Access –
Includes firefighting equipment dating back to 1923.
Lego Station — New this year is a Lego building theme contest. Lego workshops will be July 15 and Friday, Aug. 18, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Children ages 8 to 12 build a trolley with a Lego kit, ride a trolley, enjoy a snack, and take a guided museum tour. Cost is $25 per child ($15 members). Registration required at www.ct-trolley.org.
TROLLEY/Page 6
Above: Kaylani Narvaez, Tyler Natitus, Rosaly Nogeurra, Makayla Ortiz and Jayden Ortiz. Below: Hailey Powell, Kayla Allard and Lianna Padilla. Legacy Photo
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East Windsor East Windsor
First Selectman’s Corner
Community Center: Shared goal becomes reality
EAST WINDSOR
— On June 14, the town was thrilled to dedicate the new Community Center building. The event was attended by more than 300 people, who were all interested in seeing the potential that this new community amenity has to offer.
We hope that this will be a centerpiece that will bring our entire community together, regardless of age or ability.
That is the purpose of a community center – to build community, to build relationships, to create memories and to offer experiences and opportunity.
The Community Center project would not have been possible without a great deal of support, and supporters.
We would like to thank and recognize our federal representatives, U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, and U.S. Rep. John Larson, all of whom had a hand in securing millions of dollars
Text: (413)
Fax: (413) 318-4302 Email: info@longmeadow.vet
in federal funds to finance the project.
We want to also thank and recognize the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which provided technical assistance on the project.
The members of the East Windsor Board of Selectmen were instrumental in making the project a reality, and I want to thank them (including former Selectman Charlie Nordell) for having supported the project from the beginning.
The Scout Hall Building Committee
has also played a key role, having spent decades providing opportunities for youth in our community. I want to thank them for their belief that we could do more if we did it together. And I want to thank the members of the Permanent Building Commission, who oversaw the project. Their expertise was invaluable.
I also want to thank the amazing staff who worked so hard to make the Community Center a reality.
First, I want to remember Betsy Burns, who was the town’s long-time Social Services drector. Betsy advocated for over 20 years for a place like the East Windsor Community Center to be built. She would be very proud of this accomplishment. I also want to recognize Melissa Maltese, who has been a tireless promoter for a place for the whole community, where we can better deliver services to all residents of East Windsor who may need assistance. No one knows better than Melissa how
impactful this center can be for our community for many years to come. And I would be remiss if I did not thank and recognize Joe Sauerhoefer, who was the clerk of the works for this project and is responsible for the beautiful final product, down to the very finest detail.
Many others played meaningful roles, from handling the financing and accounting, to interfacing with our federal partners, to ensuring code compliance, to addressing public inquiries. To all the dedicated town staffers who played a role –thank you. East Windsor is very well served by people who believe in providing the best quality public service and believe in working together to provide this service.
The final product for our new Community Center is a real-world example of what can be accomplished when working toward a common purpose. This is what a better East Windsor looks like. I will close with an old proverb: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. To everyone who had a role in making the community center a reality, to everyone who shared their input, everyone who lent their support, everyone who wants to see our community brought closer together and who knows that it takes all of us, this place is for you. Remember, if we come together, if we work together, our best days are still ahead.
Jason Bowsza
East Windsor East Windsor
Social Services Dept. offers programs at new location
EAST WINDSOR — The Social Services Department, now at the new Community Center at 28 Abbe Road, supports residents with programs that address social, emotional and economic needs.
Among the. programs available to eligible East Windsor residents:
Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): This program provides eligible residents age 60 and older, and Social Security-disabled individuals in congregate housing, with a $40 card for grown produce. Cards can be used at participating farmers markets from June through November.
Backpack Program: Eligible families with students enrolled in the East Windsor School System can receive a new backpack filled with essential school supplies.
Sign-up period: July through Aug. 1
Holiday Dinners: In partnership with the East Windsor Community Wellness Association and Five
Corner Cupboard, Social Services provides qualified families with a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Sign-up periods — Thanksgiving: July-Oct. 1; Christmas: July-Nov. 1.
Christmas Gift Program: Eligible families can register to receive gifts or stockings for children to ages 17.
Sign-up period: July through Nov. 1
Power Pack Program: In collaboration with Parks and Recreation, this program provides weekend meals and snacks to children in income-eligible families. Bags are picked up weekly at the Community Center.
Renters’ Rebate Program: This program offers a one-time payment to qualifying renters based on 2024 income, rent and utility expenses. Applicants must be at least 65 years old by Dec. 31, 2024, or be permanently disabled and at least 18 by the same date. Application period: April 1 through Sept. 30
For details, call 860)-623-2430.
Storytime Trolleys take place Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Connecticut Trolley Museum.
Trolley Museum has busy summer ahead
Continued from page 3
Storytime Trolley — Every Tuesday and Wednesday at 11 a.m. Children will hear stories featuring trains and trolleys, followed by a ride. Included with general admission.
New: Fun Fridays — Each Friday this summer features special programming and surprise guests. Follow CTM on social media or check website for weekly updates.
Local Resident Discounts — The museum will offer half-off admission to residents of select communities on these weeks: July 1–6: East Windsor; July 8–13: Windsor Locks; July 15–20: Suffield; July 22–27: Ellington; July 29–Aug. 3: Somers; Aug. 5–10: Enfield. Hartford,
Agawam and Springfield weeks follow. Discount not valid on special event days.
Special Summer Events
Dino-Trolley: July 12–13 and July 19–20 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last ticket at 3:30 p.m.)
Superhero & Princess Day: Aug. 16 | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Museum Hours: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. First trolley ride departs at 11 a.m.; last ride at 3 p.m.
For tickets, event details or membership information, visit www.ct-trolley.org or call 860-627-6540.
The Connecticut Trolley Museum is located at 58 North Road (Route 140), East Windsor.
Photo courtesy Connecticut Trolley Museum
Ellington Ellington
First Selectwoman’s Corner
Ex-selectman will be missed
Lori Spielman
ELLINGTON — Leo Miller, who served on the Board of Selectmen for over 14 years, has passed away after a brief illness. He made a lot of meaningful contributions to the town of Ellington during his time, and he will be greatly missed by many.
The budget fortunately did pass at the second referendum, by a vote of 1,187 yes, 689 no. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote .
Last but not least, congrats to Lucas Murray, who recently received his Eagle Scout award for building and installing chessboard tables and seating at Arbor Park. Much appreciated Lucas!
Lucas Murrary received his Eagle Scout award for his work at Arbor Park.
Photos courtesy First Selectman’s office
ELLINGTON — The Ellington Volunteer Fire Department has announced the cancellation of its annual carnival and parade for 2025 due to circumstances beyond its control.
The department said it lost its ride vendor and was unable to secure a replacement in time. Organizers noted that events like the carnival require extensive planning and confirmed contracts with key partners well in advance.
“We are disappointed that our organization will not be able to provide the community with this time-honored tradition that we have been running almost continuously since 1934,” the department said in a statement.
EVFD plans to bring the carnival back in 2026, although a new ride vendor has not yet been selected.
A change to the traditional weekend following Labor Day is also under consideration.
Despite the cancellation, the annual vehicle raffle will continue as planned.
Winners will be drawn at 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.
Raffle tickets can be purchased from any Ellington firefighter. Additional ticket sale dates and locations will be announced soon.
The department thanked the community for its continued support.
Donations may be sent to:
EVFD
P.O. Box 911
Ellington, CT 06029
EVFD cancels carnival, parade after losing ride vendor for event College honors
BOSTON — The following students were named to Emerson College's Dean's List for the spring 2025 semester. To make the Dean's List, students must have a grade point average of 3.7 or higher for that semester.
Ashley Maningas of Ellington is majoring in marketing communication and is a member of the Class of 2026.
Colleen McGrath of Ellington is majoring in theatre education and is a member of the Class of 2028.
Ellington Ellington
EHS valedictorian, salutatorian help in many ways in community
Sanavi Gokhale
Ellington High School valedictorian
Sanavi Gokhale, valedictorian of Ellington High School, has been recognized for her outstanding academic achievements.
Sanavi has taken various Advanced Placement and early college experience courses while consistently making high honor roll for all four years. In school, she served as co-president of the Green Earth Club, co-vicep resident of Women’s Leadership Coalition, head of the Outreach Committee of Red Cross Club, and treasurer of the National Honor Society. She is also a black belt in American Kenpo Karate and enjoys singing Indian classical music. Furthermore, Sanavi has over 200 hospital volunteer hours, has completed a business analytics internship and has run an animal shelter donation drive for Sarah’s Second Chance, a local rescue dedicated to helping dogs with special needs.
In the fall, Sanavi plans to attend the University of Connecticut and will be majoring in molecular and cell biology on a pre-medical track.
She thanks her parents and sister for their continued support, her teachers for their encouragement, and the Ellington community for providing her the resources to succeed in high school and beyond.
Shloka Nathan
Ellington High School salutatorian
Shloka Nathan, salutatorian of Ellington High School, is a dedicated scholar, musician, athlete and leader.
As a pianist since the age of 6, she has received the JOY! Conservatory Scholarship for four consecutive years. For the past six years, she has volunteered weekly at the Memory Care Unit in South Windsor, using music to bring comfort and joy to Alzheimer’s patients. Shloka is also a varsity athlete in both volleyball and tennis, serving as captain of the tennis team. She and her doubles partner qualified for the state tournament and earned All-Conference honors two years in a row. This year, she received the prestigious CAS-CIAC Scholar Athlete Award, honoring her academic and athletic achievements.
Grins from the grads
Four
In addition to her athletic and musical accomplishments, Shloka serves as vice president of her school and class officer, she is president of the French National Honor Society, and is a member of the National Honor Society. She also mentors children in Hartford through “ConnectiKids,” tutoring underserved students in English and math.
Shloka will attend Northeastern University this fall as part of the honors program, where she plans to pursue studies in data sciences and finance.
More Ellington High grad photos, page 23
Sanavi Gokhale
Shloka Nathan
members of the Ellington High School Class of 2025 pause for a photo following graduation. From left: Carly Diwinsky, Kate Forst, Emma West and Manon Touchard.
Photo by Marc Diwinsky
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State Representative Round-up
Session featured several highlights for veterans
HARTFORD —
The Veterans and Military Affairs Committee advanced a robust package designed to support our state’s veterans, military members, and their families. The work, encompassed in HB 6438, HB 6442, and key provisions of the budget bill, reflects a strong bipartisan commitment to addressing long-standing needs, benefit expansion and providing municipalities with flexibility to serve their veteran populations.
Session highlights included: Expanded access to benefits and legal services
• Excludes non-service-connected and housebound pension benefits from
income eligibility determinations for HUSKY A & D, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Program, and CEAP, helping ensure low-income veterans are not penalized for modest VA support.
• Exempts federal service-connected disability compensation from income calculations for public defender eligibility, and expands access to legal defense for veterans, particularly those with service-related mental health conditions. Support for employment and economic opportunity
• Enables the Department of Economic and Community Development to prioritize disabled veteran entrepreneurs when allocating Small Business Express loans, improving capital access and job creation within the veteran community.
Education and training access
• Extends tuition waivers to also exempt extension program fees (including winter and summer sessions) at public colleges and universities for veterans and National Guard members.
Veterans recruitment and retention
• Funds the Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program (JEEP) at $169,000, continuing a successful incentive that awarded National Guard members for peer recruitment and resulted in over 100 new enlistments last year.
Expanded municipal authority for veterans’ property tax relief
• Substitute language from SB 1276 was enacted in the budget bill, granting municipalities options to expand property tax exemptions for veterans and Gold Star families:
— Allows localities to offer exemptions to Gold Star spouses, veterans rated Totally Disabled due to Individual Unemployability (TDIU), and veterans impacted before the original law’s implementation date.
— Permits inclusion of up to 2 acres of land under the exemption, aligning with existing benefits for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans.
— Provides an option to cap exemp-
Celebrating the passage of HB 6442 on the House floor.
tion at the municipal median property value, preventing unintended tax base shifts while expanding eligibility in a fiscally sustainable way.
Investment in veterans services capacity
• Increases staffing in the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Advocacy and Assistance, addressing backlogs and improving assistance with benefits claims.
• Initiates a study of “benefits claim sharks” to assess the prevalence of exploitative contracts and identify protections for veterans seeking assistance.
Recognition and commemoration
• Designates November as Veterans’ Month and designates June 12 as Women Veterans Day
• Creates commemorative license plates to honor Connecticut women veterans, the Borinqueneers, and waives fees for Purple Heart plates.
• Provides no-cost driver’s license renewals for veterans and requires the DMV to issue vouchers for those whose licenses are near expiration.
• Authorizes the adjutant general to establish and revoke state military awards and ribbons administratively, streamlining the recognition process.
SESSION/Page 26
July 2025 North Central News 21
Jaime Foster
Photo courtesy Rep. Foster’s Office
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Ellington Ellington
Ellington High School sends off Class of 2025
Ellington High School graduates and friends pose for a group photo following the commencement.
Photo by David Lenz
Ellington High school graduating seniors Chris Beaudry and Owen Boucher make a spectacular entrance to the ceremony,
Photo by Marc Diwinsky
Above the Ellington High School graduation line moves along. Right, newly graduated Noah Norman and Carly Diwinsky following the commencement.
Photos by Marc Diwinsky
Enfield Enfield
Mayor’s Corner
Congrats to the EHS Class of ’25
Ken Nelson
ENFIELD — To the graduates of Enfield’s Class of 2025 — congratulations! On behalf of the town of Enfield, I’m proud to celebrate your achievements and excited for what comes next in your journey.
This moment marks more than the end of high school — it’s the beginning of your next chapter. Whether you’re heading to college, trade school, the military, planning to become firefighters, police officers and even elected officials — leaders who will one day sit where I do, helping shape Enfield’s future — you carry with you the values and work ethic that make Enfield proud.
You’ve shown resilience, especially in a time when the world keeps changing. You’ve adapted, persevered and kept moving forward — balancing academics, jobs, sports, family and service to our community.
We’ve seen your impact already. This year’s graduates include students going on to become engineers, welders, teachers, nurses, mechanics and entrepreneurs. You’ve impressed us on the field, on the stage, in classrooms and in service projects. Your volunteer work, your leadership in student government and your help with food drives, town cleanups and mentoring younger students have already left a mark on Enfield.
To the families, teachers, and mentors who supported these students — thank you. Your guidance helped shape the young adults we’re celebrating today. This milestone belongs to you, too.
Enfield is proud of its graduates not just for what you’ve done, but for who you are. You represent the best of our community: hardworking, thoughtful and ready to take on the future.
And we want you to know; Your hometown is rooting for you. We hope you come back, build careers here, raise families here and help shape Enfield’s future. We’re working every day to make our town a place where young people want to stay and succeed.
As you move forward, don’t forget where you came from. The foundation you built here — in your schools, your homes, your neighborhoods — will carry you through the challenges ahead.
Keep pushing. Keep learning. Keep showing up.
The road ahead won’t always be easy. But you’ve already proven you have what it takes. And when you find success — and I know you will — I hope you’ll remember this town that believed in you.
Congratulations again, Class of 2025. Enfield is proud of you.
Now go show the world what you’re made of.
College honors
Hailie Marcioch of Enfield has achieved President’s List honors for the spring 2025 semester at Nichols College.
President’s List recognizes those students who achieve high grades during a single semester.
Students whose semester grade point average is 3.85 or higher for at least 12 undergraduate credit-hours and no grades below B- will receive President’s List honors.
Each year, the University of Rhode Island presents Academic Excellence Awards to graduating seniors for exceptional academic performance. Departmental faculty and deans select students for these awards based on grade point average and other indicators of excellence, such as the completion of an honors project, a research presentation, community service, and extraordinary professional and civic promise.
Athena Stamatopoulos of Enfield was recognized for academic excellence in film media program.
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Enfield Enfield
Enfield Teacher of the Year Amy Santanella with her husband, Peter; daughter, Kelsey, a junior at Southern Connecticut State University; son, Mason, in sixth grade at JFK Middle School; and daughter, Molly, in first grade at Hazardville Memorial.
Teacher of Year’s dedication shapes inclusive school culture
ENFIELD — The Enfield Public Schools announced that Amy Santanella is the 2025-26 Enfield Teacher of the Year.
Santanella, an Enfield native, and is in her 19th year of teaching — beginning in Stafford for two years, spending ten years in Bloomfield, and coming back home to give back to Enfield for the past eight years.
She teaches in the Adaptive Learning Program at John F. Kennedy Middle School, which offers a highly individualized educational setting designed to meet the unique learning needs of students through specialized instruction. Santanella received a social work degree from Southern Connecticut State University, her master’s and teaching certificate in special education from SCSU, and a sixth-year certificate in administration and supervision.
Santanella contributes to the RULER Committee and 7th Grade Field Trip Committee, is a passionate advocate for JFK’s Unified Sports program, ran a jogging club and created the “Word of the Week” announcement
to support and promote social-emotional learning throughout the school.
Santanella implemented the Best Buddies program at JFK Middle School, creating a space where students of all abilities can build friendships and feel included. Through her leadership, the program has grown into a vibrant, schoolwide initiative that promotes kindness, acceptance and inclusion of all. Her dedication has helped shape a more inclusive school culture, where every student is valued, celebrated, and guided by compassion.
One of her passions is running, participating in community fundraising races such as Cinco K Mayo, Enfield’s July 4th race and Outrun Addiction. She represented Team Best Buddies in the New York City Marathon in 2021, completing the race in under four hours while raising awareness for individuals with special abilities. She enjoys reading, camping with her family and spending time at the beach.
Santanella thanked her colleague, Michael Misseri, for nominating her for the award.
Session boosts veterans efforts
Continued from page 21
Support for military families
• Ensures education stability for military-connected students by allowing children to remain enrolled in the same school district after relocation and facilitating special education evaluations and records transfers.
Healthcare and long-term care access
• Initiates a study on improving vet-
erans’ access to dental services.
• Establishes waiting list exemptions for veterans with service-connected disabilities at federally contracted long-term care facilities. Forward-looking policy development
• Commissions studies to analyze the impacts of increasing the base veterans’ property tax exemption and to evaluate the effectiveness of municipal veterans services.
Enfield Schools photo
VALEDICTORIAN
Kathia Victoria Diaz
SALUTATORIAN
Jonathan Tony Araujo
CLASS PRESIDENT
Zachary Jacob Maynard
Members of the Class of 2025
A: Marcus Anthony Abatayo, Melanni Renee Abrahamian, Allen Jadiel Aceituno, Actriz JamesXavier Addison, Lucas Alexander Aiello, Teresa Marie Alcantara, Jaylen Christina Alcime, Samantha Elizabeth Alfano, Isabella Laurenne Alvarado, Kiersten Eliza Anadore, Ryan Soren Andersen, Ryan Brady Anderson, Kayla Alexis Archambault, Madilyn Aja Archer.
B: Alexa Lynn Babbitt, Luca Giovanni Bacile, Aaliyah Lynne Barnaby, Jacob William Barnes, Hailey Meagan Barrett, Alexandra Reese Barry, Brady Quinn Barsalou, Alexander Alysha Beaulieu, Jacob Michael Beiler, Ava Rose Belanger, Alyssa Rose Bell, Rebecca Leigh Bemiss, Angel Avier Benitez, Isabelle Benvenuto, William Gerald Bergman, Darius Berry, Izabel Lewanda Best, Lisa Destiny Bethel, Rylee M. Bleau, Chanler Anthony Blott, Emma Grace Boisvere, Hailey Shea Boney, Chiara Noemi
Boothby, Christopher Bosley, Daniel Bouchard, Kayla Bouchard, Anthony David Bourbeau, Desirae Bourne, Jake Aaron Bowman, Jeanalys Brito Bermudez, Lyndsie Brown, Hailey Alexa Bruce, Alexa-Lyn Charlotte Bubello, Ryan Jack Buckley, Valentin Bulbuc, Ethan Luis Buonanducci, Ethan D. Burby, Reese Alexander Burgos.
C: Logan Seamus Calabrese, Jonathan Stanley Calderon, Dana Treasure Caldwell, Lane Richard Camp, Kaile Esther Carballo, Abby Elizabeth Carllo, Sophia Clarinda Carrier, Arellys Del Rosario Castillo, Bryant David Cecire, Aaliyah Sarai Cedeno, Alan Adrian Cervantes Martinez, Kalique Gerrell Charles, Gabriela Marie Chavez, Navej Harmoney Cheeks, Riche Chen, Brenna Rose Chiapponi, Emma Patricia Chipman, Camryn Allen Clark, Joshua Steven Classon, Kendra Summer Cobbs, Saied Cohall, Christopher Lamont Colbert, Kerra Rose Colgan, Emma Sue Conde, David Morrill Conlon, Kaleb Cooley, Olivia Irene Cooley, Mary Correia, Carlos Antonio Cortes, David Angel Cortes, Mattea Marguerite-Marie Cosby, Gavin Taylor Cushing.
D: Destiny Levayah Daley, Catharina Eve Oliveira De Aguiar, Jaeliani De La Rosa, Alexiana Amelia DeJesus, Lyanna DeJesus, Jeniel Del Rio, Violette Debra Delaware, Valeria Nicole Delgado Montemoino, Max Alexander Delgreco, Caleb Dickson, Isabella Pearline Dinnald, Carlos Adiel Dominguez, Francis Jay Dominguez, Christopher Donahue, Colin Patrick Drury, Simon Glenn
F: Kayli Stephanie Falcon, Rawan Ismail Farah, Rey O. Fernandez, Lucas Allen Ferracci, Samantha Cabriotti Ferrando, Madison Marion Flora, Halle Jean Fontaine, Emmitt Ray Ford, Ashley Foster, Nathan B. Fournier, Rym Fridjat, Selma Fridjat.
G: Madison Rose Galetta, Helen Lyn Gann, Finley Jane Gannon, David Aramis Garcia, Amira Garcia-Wells, Maddox Garcia-Wells, David Anthony Garro, Grace Ann Garro, Madelyn Christine Garthwait, Ariel Gilkes, Austin Gilmore, Joseph John Girouard, Landon Michael Glogowski, Abigail Lynn Gomez, Grace Gorman, Emma Rose Grant, Samantha Kelly Green, Matthew Ryan Griffin, Charles Anthony Guilmette, Benjamin Griffin Guindon-Bourget, Caleigh Jayne Guyer, Andrew William Guzie.
H: Jania Hamilton, Bradley John Hamre, Jack Michael Harmon, Matthew Isaiah Harmon, Adrianna Marie Harrison, Camden Henzel, Devin James Hernandez, Isaac Benjamin Hernandez, Madilyn Teresa Herzig, Arianna Grace Hicks, Avianna Rose Holguin, Brian Horton, Alyssa Grace Hosig, Isabella Marie Huffman, Ashley Humiston.
I: Jana Yossry Ibrahim, Carolanne Ingraham, David Ingraham, Destiny Leigh Irving, Cole Matthew Issacson.
J: Anjaleah James, Olivia Victoria Jimenez, Connor Thomas Jones, Derek Louis Judd.
K: Kaitlyn Rebecca Kamay, Kyle Stanley Kamay, Julia Rose Keene, Haleigh Julia Ketchale, Jake Michael Klose, Aiden Michael Koczera.
James Lancaster, Jason Alexzander LaPenna, Aubrey Leigh Lathrop, Reese Renaye Lavoie, Dream Nyasia Adora Lawson, Antonio Jose Lebron, Jayden Alexander Levesque, Brandan Todd Lewis, Dylan Michael Lewis, Ryan Lewis, Kaydence Aubrey Lindo, Alicia Grace Lizotte, Ryan Matthew Long, Brianna Nicole Lopez, Victoria Reyesli Lopez, Jake Aaron Lubanski, Kai Matthew Lubas, Kaleb Matthew Lubas.
M: Jason Taylor Mahon, Ashlyn Bailey Malloy, Keara Marinak, Katherine Dianne Marino, Nikko Ezail Marrow, Julianna Melissa Marshall, Alexandra M. Martinez Oquendo, Anthony Diego Martinez, Jaci Belinda MartinezEstrada, Kayleigh Lynn Mathiason, Drew Tyler Matthews, Ruby Anne Mattoon, Lauren Rose McDonnell, Aryah Nycol McKnight, Rachel Joy McNeil, Primo Luigi Megazzini, Brock Allen Mejia, Natilie Melendez, Nicole Mendoza, Nathan Joe Merrill, Alyssa Marie Michaud, Jaelah Rose Michaud, Jonathan Aiden Minor, Aubrie Lynn Moore, Christian Fabian Mosquera.
N: Ryan Nash, Xavier Edwardo Nazario, Noelia Ivette Negron, Kayla Tianna-Marie Newman, Aubrey Jean Noke.
O: Evelina Olsen, Juliana Noelle Olsen.
P: Luke Michael Pacholski, Amyda Lisette Padilla, Yandel Paez, Aurianna Jean Palmer, Nicholina Mary Parolo, Ishan Parin Patel, Logan John Pelkey, Tessa Brooke Pepin, Ailey Rose Pequita, Lilyana M. Perez, Crystal Monique Petersen, Thang Pham, Makayla Pierce, Victoria Anne Pines, Kiarah Sadie Pinkham, Owaynie Armanie Pinnock, Nyaih Marie Pizarro, Angelina Marie Pizzale, Collyn L. Plourde, Isabella Marie Porcello, Kairi Layne Post, Skylar Jade Potemski, Brielle Powers, Emily Jo Powers.
Enfield Enfield
ERfC celebrates 30 years with ribbon-cutting
ENFIELD — Educational Resources for Children, Inc. is celebrating 30 years of enriching the lives of children and families in the Enfield community. This milestone, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a renewed commitment to innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence, kicks off a summer of programming.
This year, ERfC has announced a firstever partnership with the Hartford Region Open Choice Program, allowing it to expand summer camp enrollment to Hartford residents. Thanks to the Open Choice Grant, ERfC is not only increasing access for students but also putting over $45,000 back into the local economy by partnering with area restaurants and vendors to nourish students and staff.
“This isn’t just about a ribbon-cutting — it’s a ribbon of legacy,” said Tracey E. Joseph, ERfC board president, at the celebration. “A thread of commitment that ties three decades of service to an even stronger and brighter future.”
Breakfasts will be provided by
A ceremonial ribbon-cutting helped mark ERfC’s 30th year of enriching the lives of children and families in
Benson Bagels and local Dunkin’ franchises, while lunches will rotate between Anthony’s Restaurant, Enfield Produce and Deli, and Lulu’s, with treats from Sunday Truck and Russo Italian Pastry Shop. All meals meet nutritional guidelines. Snacks will continue to be provided through ERfC’s longtime partner, the Enfield Food Shelf.
ERfC Summer Escape, the organization's flagship summer camp, will run from June 30 to Aug. 15 and serve over 180 students in grades K–8 from Enfield and Hartford. This year’s themed weeks will blend fun, education, leadership, and literacy— including a spelling bee, science fair, and talent showcase. Students will attend seven field trips,
including Lake Congamond, the Springfield Museums, Shaker Bowl, the New England Air Museum, Forest Park, and Sonny’s Place. “At ERfC, we are about fun — but at our core, we are about education, our community, and the safety of it,” said Joseph.
For more information about ERfC or to get involved, visit www.erfcinc.org.
Enfield. NCN staff photo
Offer expires 7/31/2025.
Regional Regional
Connor’s Place in Somers gets state grant
HARTFORD — Gov. Ned Lamont is releasing $30 million in state grants to 46 small towns in Connecticut that will be used to complete a variety of infrastructure improvements, such as road safety reconstruction projects, emergency management upgrades, sidewalk and pedestrian safety enhancements, educational and recreational facility upgrades, and other kinds of capital improvement projects.
The grants are being provided through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), a state program managed by the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management that delivers grants to small towns for economic development, community conservation, and quality-of-life capital projects. In addition to the grants from the state, each municipality is also contributing funds, bringing the total spent on the 48 projects to $43.4 million in a combination of state, local, and other funding sources.
Among the projects receiving funding is Connor’s Place Playground in Somers, with $191,224 in state funding approved for resurfacing at the playground. This will be matched by $47,806 from the town.
“Our small towns are an important part of what makes Connecticut such a special place to live and work,” Lamont said. “By partnering with each town, we can help get these infrastructure projects
completed so these towns can continue to thrive, remain competitive, attract businesses, and improve the quality of life for our residents.”
Towns seeking funding under this current round of STEAP grants were required to submit applications to the state by Feb. 20. Towns selected to receive grants will soon be contacted by OPM with an official award notification and further instructions. Funding to support these grants was recently approved by the State Bond Commission, a group that Lamont leads as chairperson.
The STEAP grants awarded in this round include:
• Granby: $579,825 in state funding is
approved for the Salmon Brook Park Connector and Auxiliary Parking. This will be matched by $117,000 from the town.
• Union: $120,000 in state funding is approved for rehabilitation of Holland Road. This will be matched by $24,000 from the town.
Additionally, Lamont released $18.8 million in state grants that will be used for the assessment and remediation of 227 acres of contaminated state land on June 12. The funding will support 23 properties in 19 towns and cities, helping cover the costs of cleaning up these parcels so they can be redeveloped and returned to productive use.
Locally, Windsor Locks received a $4,000,000 grant to the town for abatement, demolition, and remediation activities at 255 Main Street, which is adjacent to the proposed location of the new train station. The cleanup activities will enable the construction of the first phase of a 120-u nit mixeduse/TOD development.
Enfield High School Class of 2025
Continued from page 27
R: Gabriel Jamil Ragland, Trinity Avigail Ramirez, Jocelyn Araceli Ramos Rocha, Nathanael Ramos, Brayden Matthew Rathbun, Aayan Rauf, Jack Raymond, Cameron Anthony Rego, Savannah Amber Riley, Briana Lynn Ringwalt, Frank Antonio Rivera, Mason Angel Rivera, Alberto Rocha Nunez, Isaiah Omarion Rodrigues, Danny H. Rojas, Efrain Roman, Solianys Rosado-Rosario, Joshua Hughton Rowe, Jordan Roy, Alex Rubin, Jesus RubioRodriguez, Brooke Louise Ryan.
S: Parker Joseph Salvas, Ricardo Geraldo Santiago, Joel Schmidt, Daniel Seamster, Katie Joelle Semancik, Amelia Marie Sementilli, Charlotte Elizabeth Sementilli, Ryan Senn, Odin Matthew Sharpe, Rylee Mary Shaughnessy, Conlan Paul Shaw, Angelina Shi, Christopher Peter Simons, Gursimranjit Singh, Jairam Singh, Ethan James Sirard, Colin Christopher Sixt, Jenna Megan Slater, Kameron Jacob Sligar, Dillon Smith, Gage Michael-Scott Smith, Janel Oriana Smith, Jessica Renee Smith, Kelsey Amber Smith, Lillian J. Sobanski, Sophia Rose Sowinski, Anthony Joseph Spielmann, Emily Stathers, Payten Stebbins, Madelyn Elise Stoddard, Angel Stone, Hunter Travis Storrs, Miles Stovall.
T: Aiden Tetreault, Alexander Ray Thibodeau, Shaun Alexander Thomas, Cameron Wyatt Thompson, Joseph James Thompson, Nicholas Guy Tirendi, Lincoln James Tirrell, Anthony Joseph Torrey, Brianna Nicole Tracy, Jayden Wallace-Lucero Troxler.
V: Anshkumar Bipinbhad Vachhani, Christopher Yupeng Vang, Seamus William Varnet, Jonathan Vassell, Misael Velez.
W: Cassidy Rae Wallner, Jeremy Walsh, Aaliyah Na'ijae Webb, Cassidy Weston, Isaiah Dontez Williams, Jaedyn Amar Williams, John Williams, Eric Willis, Alissa Janel Wilson.
X: NaAleiya Xiong, ShouaChoua Xiong.
Y: Mackenzie Yaple, Sarah Khaled Younes, Joshua Young.
Z: Kallianna Alison Zaugg.
Rent Bobcat with operator. 5 hr/$500 minumum
Connor’s Place Playground in Somers has received more than $190,000 in state funding for resurfacing work.
Photo courtesy of Somers Recreation Department
Somers High student installs AED at track for Capstone project
SOMERS — For her senior capstone project, Alyssa Reynolds focused on raising awareness about automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and their locations.
She partnered with the In A Heartbeat Foundation (inaheartbeat.org), which donated the AED. FF/EMT Brian Langan, who served as Alyssa’s mentor, helped acquire a weatherproof case for the device and guided her through the process. Installation support was provided by Mike from Raimondo Electric (raimondoelectric.com).
Thanks to everyone’s efforts, an AED is now at the track at Somers High School to help ensure the safety of students, athletes and community members. Alyssa and the Somers Fire Department extend their gratitude to all who contributed to this project.
From left, Somers High School Athletic Director Scott Czerwinski, firefighter /EMT Brian Langan, Alyssa Reynolds, and Somers High School Trainer Kade Redman.
College honors
Dean College has announced the students who have earned a place on the Dean's List for the spring 2025 semester. These students have demonstrated a serious commitment to their studies while at Dean College.
Nathan Beturne of Ellington
Kacie Consolini of Stafford Springs
Melea Wolters of Somers
Town officials appreciate support from residents Letter to the editor
SOMERS — June 30 marked the closeout of another successful fiscal year for the town of Somers.
The Boards of Selectmen, Finance and Education wish to thank the citizens of Somers for supporting the town’s recent budget referendum. In addition, the elected leadership of the town extends a heartfelt thanks to all employees for their dedication and commitment to the residents of Somers.
Several neighboring towns are struggling to pass their annual budgets, after multiple referendums and are facing drastic cuts to education and services.
Somers residents overwhelmingly, in a 2-to-1 vote, approved the 2026 budget on the first ballot. Although the fiscal outlook remains uncertain, with budget concerns at the state level, which is responding to cuts in federal funding, Somers elected officials will continue to work collaboratively in supporting our residents.
One of the best examples of this collaboration is the commitment by the Boards of Selectmen and Education to return any funding from the 2025 budget to the town’s general fund. This action will continue to increase the town’s reserves and help Somers weather any future fiscal uncertainty.
Thank you for supporting the referendum and fellow citizens.
This letter was signed by members of the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance and Board of Education.
Michael Ostrowski President & CEO
Photo courtesy of Somers High School
Somers High School grad scenes
Vet Coffeehouse events planned
SOMERS — The Somers Veterans Coffeehouse has these events scheduled in the coming months.
“Plan Your Probate” Saturday, July 26, 8:30 to 11 a.m., Somers Town Hall, Featuring Timothy R.E. Keeney, retired Navy SEAL, attorney and former judge. Learn what to expect during probate, including costs, filing and how to protect your family.
Connecticut DVA Stand Down Friday, Sept. 19, multiple locations statewide.
Offering vital services and support to Connecticut veterans. Additional details to follow.
Somers High School Veterans Day Assembly Tuesday, Nov. 11
• 8 to 9 a.m.: Veterans breakfast (Somers High School cafeteria)
• 9 to 9:45 a.m.: Assembly (SHS auditorium)
• 11:11 a.m.: Three-volley salute (flagpole)
All veterans and active-duty service members in the community are invited.
Their journey together: Evan Colton, Jesse Martello and Madison Carra at preschool, elementary school and now high school graduation. Somers Board of Education Member Ed Depeau awards his daughter, Ava, her diploma.
Photos by Vanessa Carra
Graduates Mia Cardinale (front) and Emma Chase.
Somers High School Class of 2025
Leighanna
Antonmarchi
Tatiana Arruda
Zachary Avery
Chase Beggs
Noelle Benedict
Matthew Bernier
Angelina Bollinger
Jack Brayton
Jake Breton
Charles Bruso
Kathryn Burnett
Stephanie Burzynski
Mia Cardinale
Andrew Cardwell
Madison Carra
Sydney Cassidy
Buba Cham
Emma Chase
Jack Chester
Emma Cicciarella
Aiden Clarity
Evan Colton
Genevieve Curtis
Avery D'Amour
Ava DePeau
Drew DiCesare
Lily Duff
Harley Eastman
Anthony Fassel
Rylee Ferro
James Gall
Brendan Grenier
Rosabella Grimaldi
Emma Grimes
Madeline Guyette
Allie Hafford
Lyndsey Hale
McKenna Halligan
Alyzabeth Halmers
Ethan Hartman
Charlotte Hight
Bryce Huestis
Brandon Hwalek
Tyler Jablonski
Liam Jones
Cowen Joyal
Yanni Karaja
Ariana Kempton
Abigail Kierstead
Aubrie Kobjack
Krysta Laboda
Aiden Leiphart
Savannah Lemoine
Cooper Leonard
Kinsey Loupe
Ashley Lyons
Cody Marks
Jesse Martello
Lukas McClenahan
Eleanor McLellan
Devon Mercado
Jessica Messenger
Chloe Mike
Savanna Minniear
Juliette Mira
Devin Nethercott
Jack Olearcek
Evan Olearczyk
Brooke Oliveri
Morgan Oliveri
Kobe Parker
Fiona Pham
Brennan Pierce
Katelyn Provencher
Jocelyn Randall
Eric Renzoni
Alyssa Reynolds
Destiny Rivera
Christopher Rogers
Cristian Rosulschi
Josephine Rumore
Thomas Saso
Sebastian Sawicki
Riley Scavotto
Elden Schillinger
Tyler Scott
Maya Serrano
Antonio Sheehan
Maggie Sikoski
Nico Skalski
Brooke Stevens
Denny Storozuk
Sophia Thomas
Nicholas Trask
Emma Waters
Jaycen Williams
Somers High School graduates celebrate following the conclusion of the ceremony at the school’s athletic fields.
Melanie Stevens photo
Stafford Stafford
Meet and greets planned
Scott Sugarman
STAFFORD — Scott Sugarman, the incoming superintendent of Stafford Public Schools, as announced a schedule of informal meet-and-greet sessions, which he describes as “a chance to connect, listen and share ideas on how we can work together to make Stafford Public Schools the best it can be.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Stafford Public Schools and becoming a part of the Stafford community,” Sugarman said.
“I can’t wait to get to know you! As your new superintendent, one of my top priorities is to build strong, open relationships with the amazing people who make up this community.
“Let’s talk, laugh and dream big — together.”
Upcoming dates:
• July 10, 3 to 5 p.m., at the Stafford Public Library
• July 15, Morning, time, location TBD
• July 17, Evening, time, location TBD
• July 23, Morning and evening, time, location TBD
• July 29 and July 31, time, location TBD
Check on the Stafford Public Schools website for updates as times and locations are determined.
“I believe great schools are built through strong partnerships, and that begins with open conversations and mutual trust,” Sugarman said.
“I look forward to meeting you, hearing your stories, and working hand in hand to support our students.
Grad day at Stafford High
Stafford High Class President Jadyn Kun addresses the crowd at the commencement. Next page, clockwise from top: mortarboards go flying; guest speaker, Steve Glazier, NBC Connecticut StormTracker Team, SHS graduate, Class of 2004; Valedictorian Anna Fahey; Salutatorian, Jacob Bouchard.
Photos by Jim Talenda, Silver Pixel Photography
Victory lap
On June 11 the Stafford High School Class of 2025 made its traditional “Senior Walk” through all of the town schools. They are pictured here high-fiving in the first grade hallway of the Stafford Elementary School.
Photo by Jenifer Mansfield-Phillips
Stafford Stafford
STAFFORD — These students were named to the fourth quarter honor roll at Stafford High School.
Grade 12
High honors: Hunter Adams, Carolyn Beebe, Jacob Bouchard, Alexander Class, Connor Conceicao, Anthony Coporale, Nicole Cunha, Anna Fahey, Liam Gilbert, Elizabeth Hansen, Kara Hoefle, Gabrielle Hurt, Jaden Hurt, Kaiden Jellison, Ryan Jillson, Jadyn Kun, Cheyenne Lloyd, Johnathan Mason, Molly Merritt, Ella Ohlendorf, Joshua Ouellette, Henry Pace, Alison Panciera, Kaylah Pellegrino, Daniel Pucci, Ash Silvernail, Samantha Simlick, Javon Stigler, Noah Synnott.
Talyah Greene, Alaina Guay, Emilie Hurley, Austin Irwin, Erica Kearns, Richard Lavoice, Thomas Mayo, Olivia Melanson, Matthew Morse, William Pekrul, Sean Puglisi, Yvonne
Triska, Jillian Verney, Colin Viger.
Honors: Callie Augusto, Adriana Bennett, Jamie Chrzanowski, Bella Coporale, Kiley Glazier, Gavin Iacobucci, Bridget Kula, Emily Leeman, Lincoln Morro, Aaron Sfreddo, Sara Sklenka, Ethan Strout, Colin Tozier, Jayden Yarrows.
High honors: Ella Biedrzycki, Kaiden Bobskill, Kinsley Burns, Caden Crisantemi, Sam Cromwell, Ian Curnan, Caitlyn Daigneau, Annabelle Dombrowik, Timothy Dombrowik, Caiden Donaldson, Jackson Frassinelli, Bentley Gaulin, Nour-Alhouda Hadj Salem, Megan Introvigne, Aubrey Loalbo, Susannah Myles, Marian Pace, Molly Pace, Maggie Skorupski, Aubrey Smith, Landon Tozier, Addison Vail.
Honors: Tai Dang, Julianna Eaton, Kason Holland, Sarah Ives, Jeremiah Sheridan, Riley Unger, Mason Valentino, Oliver Warren, Matthew Wierzchowski.
Honor roll
Stafford Stafford
First Selectman’s Corner
Budget remains primary focus in busy month
Bill Morrison
STAFFORD —
After a third failed referendum, the Board of Selectmen officially set the mill rate at its June 5 meeting. This decision followed recommendations from the Board of Finance to make reductions to bring the mill rate down. Initially, a 0.12 mill increase had been proposed; however, after the failed vote, the Board of Finance recommended a zero mill increase. The mill rate was set at 38.59 mills, the same as the previous fiscal year, allowing the town to continue operating as we await approval of a final budget.
A new referendum will be necessary to formally adopt the 2025-2026 budget and submit it to the Office of Policy and Management. Each referendum costs the town approximately $5,000.
The adjusted municipal and education budgets are: Board of Selectmen: $16,729,319; Board of Education: $30,562,855; Total: $47,292,174.
With no increase in the total budget, the town has achieved a zero mill increase for the upcoming fiscal year. One mill in Stafford equates to approximately $888,914. The motor vehicle mill rate remains capped at 32.46.
As always, I remain committed to working closely with the Board of Selectmen and Department Heads to ensure that this budget is implemented as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Public Works Update
• Old Springfield Road: Drainage work is currently underway. Milling began on June 12, with paving scheduled to started in late June. The work is anticipated to be completed by mid-July.
• Route 190 and Hamden Road: The state of Connecticut, in partnership with the Connecticut Water Co., will undertake a culvert replacement project requiring a full road closure in August. Emergency vehicles will maintain access. The full closure will last approximately five days, followed by an alternating traffic pattern until project completion.
• Chip sealing on Routes 190 and 30: This project was scheduled to begin the week of June 15 in West Stafford, although delays are possible. Variable
West Stafford Fire Department receives $2,000 grant from Connecticut Water to replace aging hose lines. From left: Scott Bonnet, Arthur Plante (both of CT Water), Capt. Mark Morrison, Asst. Chief/First Selectman Bill Morrison, Chief Joe Lorenzetti. Photo courtesy of First Selectman’s Office
message boards will provide updates to motorists.
• Route 19 Culvert Replacement: A public hearing was held for a culvert replacement near Williams Oil. Work is expected to begin late 2026 or early 2027.
• Whispering Pines Bridge: Following a two-week pause, work will resume the week of June 23.
• Hamden Road Paving (2026): Engineering work, tree trimming and access permissions are underway. Drainage improvements are being evaluated near Green Acres Road, where Eversource has been active due to outages.
• Fall preventative maintenance: Chip sealing is planned for several roads, potentially including Cooper Lane, Tolland Avenue and the remaining portion of Old Springfield Road. Final plans are still being developed.
• Reconstruction and paving of the Senior Center parking lot and Kealey Field are moving forward, funded through the state’s STEAP grant program.
The Board of Selectmen would like to express special appreciation to the Public Works Department, with particular thanks to Director Cowperthwaite, for coordination of these essential projects.
Community Engagement
Since our last update, I’ve prioritized reactivating the Economic Development Commission. Following a call for participation, the commission has now held two meetings and received 10 applications from residents interested in serving.
A heartfelt thank-you to the Events Committee, town staff, and local veterans’
organizations for their incredible work organizing another outstanding Memorial Day Parade. I’d also like to extend my gratitude to everyone involved in planning the SummerFest and Fireworks celebration. These events require months of behind-the-scenes coordination — from securing permits and managing vendors to organizing volunteers and ensuring public safety. Their dedication brings our
community together in celebration and pride, and I am deeply appreciative of the time and energy contributed by so many.
There have been many recent moments that reinforce my optimism for the coming year. I had the pleasure of attending the Top 20 Ceremony at Stafford High School and the 8th Grade Promotion, as well as the Class of 2025 Graduation, held on a beautiful June day. Congratulations to all graduates — you are the future of this community.
I’d also like to recognize Paradis Insurance for hosting Flag Day. Despite chilly weather (and a dunk tank that proved memorable), the event was well attended and honorees were most deserving.
Finally, a sincere thank you to the Connecticut Water Co. for its generous $2,000 grant to the West Stafford Fire Department, submitted by Captain Mark Morrison. These funds allowed the department to replace aging hose lines.
As always, thank you for your continued support and commitment to making Stafford a great place to live and work.
courtesy of Rob Faber Photography
We’re from here.
Family owned and operated since 1974, we have always cared about the communities we serve—because we live, work, and play here, just like you. Inspired by future generations, we continue to adapt and innovate— embracing new technologies to meet the ever-evolving recycling landscape.
Our innovations include building the largest state-of-the-art recycling facility in the country, powering our buildings with solar energy, and fueling our trucks with all-American natural gas.
We’re committed to our communities and the planet.
