March2025North Central News

Page 1


The Ellington Knights clinched the North Central Connecticut Conference Tournament championship with a 48-44 win over SMSA on Feb. 26 at Suffield High School. The Knights enter the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference tournament in the Division IV bracket March 5 with a perfect record of 23-0.

Photo courtesy of Lenz Photography

Soaring electric bills have Connecticut residents and elected officials asking ‘watts’ up with the power supply lately?

Connecticut pays 30% more than the U.S. average for electricity, the second highest electric bill in the country, according to a new report from Home Energy Club (homeenergyclub.com)

Hawaii tops the nation with the high-

per

This comes as no surprise since the state relies heavily on petroleum for 67% of its electricity generation.

Connecticut has the second-most expensive monthly energy costs.

Random Raven Random Raven

Sun, stars align at South Beach Wine & Food Festival

MIAMI — Welcome to a special installment of Raven this month.

The slew of new airlines at Bradley International in general and plentiful, affordable, new options by existing servers to the Sunshine State specifically have made one of The Raven’s recurring flights of fancy possible. That is, enjoying wine flights and so much more at the 2025 South Beach Wine & Food Festival (sobewff.org).

A staple at the New England/Tri-State area vino-fueled festivals, The Raven has experienced the grandeur of Newport, Rhode Island’s annual festival with its historic mansions; the unparalleled island vibes of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard; the lofty heights — only attainable via a gondola ride, in fact — of the Killington, Vermont,

festival; and the urban hustle of New York.

But, without fail, at each of these amazing events, someone — be it a fellow patron or industry pourer — invariable leans over to whisper: “You think this is something? Ever been to the one at South Beach?”

It’s doesn’t take long to figure out what all the hype is about.

Just making one’s way to the massive conglomeration of open-air tents swinging softly to the gentle, ocean breezes amidst the backdrop of sun and sand could spur thoughts of “Wow, this alone is worth the admission price — and I haven’t even tasted anything yet.”

Once inside, however, the sips, savories and star power make for what not only must be a submission for the Alliteration Hall of Fame but a no-holds barred assault of the senses.

“It’s incredible to see how far the festival has come,” said Lee Brian Schrager, festival founder and director. “From its beginnings on the FIU campus to now being a global event that supports the next generation of hospitality leaders.”

Schrager goes on to note his brainchild not only

“vibrant spirit of South Florida” but also “highlights the incredible food and beverage that has put Miami on the map as a premier culinary destination.”

East Windsor East Windsor Park Hill gets $2M grant for improvements

HARTFORD — Gov. Ned Lamont and Connecticut Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno have announced that the state Department of Housing is awarding $12.8 million in grants to eight municipalities for infrastructure upgrades that will modernize and rehabilitate housing for low and moderate-income residents.

Included in the awards is a $2 million grant to Park Hill in East Windsor.

The town of East Windsor will use the funds for capital improvements to the existing affordable housing at Park Hill, an 84-unit affordable housing development at 1A Park Hill in Broad Brook.

This phase will prioritize the oldest buildings, which include five buildings totaling 30 units. The remaining nine buildings (54 units) will be addressed with SSHP funds to complete a similar scope. The improvements included in the proposed scope are energy-efficiency upgrades through new heat pump heating systems (mini-splits); improved envelope with new siding, insulation, windows, and doors; and new kitchens, stoves and flooring throughout units (excluding bathrooms). Additionally, handicapped

accessibility upgrades to bathrooms through tub to shower conversions for elderly and disabled residents will be made.

“This investment in our community will support dozens of local households with long-term benefits that will pay off for decades,” said state Sen. Saud Anwar (D-East Hartford, South Windsor, East Windsor and Ellington). “I’m grateful to Governor Lamont and our state for their continual support.”

The East Windsor Housing Authority owns and manages Park Hill, a low income, elderly and non-elderly housing

complex.

“These upgrades will provide improved energy efficiency and resources for residents of Park Hill, which means they’ll have real-world, long-term benefits for them,” said state Rep. Jaime Foster (D-East Windsor, Ellington) “I’m grateful and encouraged by Governor Lamont’s support for East Windsor.”

Park Hill is comprised of 84 gardenstyle apartments including fifty eight efficiencies to house one person and 26, onebedroom apartments for a two person house hold. Included are five handicap accessible units. There are three laundry

Park Hill housing devel-

has received a $2 million state grant for modernization improvements.

rooms, a 1,088-square-foot maintenance garage and a 2,352-square-foot community hall/office building.

“It is so important to continue to improve and upgrade the existing affordable housing in Connecticut,” state Rep. Carol Hall (R-Enfield, East Windsor) said. “These grants assist our low- and moderate-income families by providing tangible quality of life improvements for them and to our overall community and I look forward to more grant opportunities for residents of the 59th District.”

GRANT/Page 5

The
opment in Broad Brook

East Windsor East Windsor

EAST WINDSOR

— Superintendent of Schools Dr. Patrick Tudryn and I presented our budget recommendations for the school system and town government, respectively, to our boards on Feb. 19 for the commencement of budget deliberations.

As those budget requests currently stand, the town’s mill rate would increase by just 0.37 mills. This means a household paying $6,000 per year in taxes would see an increase of just $95 for the year.

Expenses are increasing, and so are municipal revenues — but new revenues are coming from new taxpayers being added to the town’s tax rolls, not from significant increases to existing taxpayers.

I want to share some top line points

from my request for Town government budget funding for the fiscal year 2025/26.

At the outset, it is important to note where East Windsor ranks against comparative communities in the region.

Although they may be geographically close to us, Manchester, South Windsor, and Enfield are too different in many ways to be a true apples to apples comparison.

When looking at towns with comparable populations, grand lists, municipal budgets, local tax levies, etc., Canton, Coventry, Ellington, Granby, Somers, Stafford, Suffield, Tolland and Windsor Locks are the fairest comparators to East Windsor. Based on population, seven of those towns are larger than us, two are smaller.

In terms of the overall grand list (the basis by which municipal governments can levy property taxes to fund their

work), our grand list is third overall. Ours is the second lowest mill rate, which will continue to be true next year as well.

We ask our taxpayers to pay the third lowest of our 10 comparable communities in terms of local tax dollars to support municipal services, with seven of our comparable towns taxing more than we do.

In terms of general government spending — town hall offices, boards and commissions, activities and fees, etc. —East Windsor ranks sixth out of those 10 comparable communities. In terms of public safety, we rank second. In terms of Public Works, we rank fifth out of 10. In terms of community services, we rank fifth out of ten. In terms of public education, we rank 10th out of 10, and we rank 10th out of 10 in terms of public debt.

This is the start of a very long process, but it is a solid place to start.

Grants help improve neighborhoods, Lamont says

Continued from Page 4

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Eligible projects are required to be in a municipality with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents.

“These housing grants go a long way to improving neighborhoods so that we can make our communities more attractive and encourage continued growth for the benefit of all our residents,” Lamont said.

“Connecticut has both large and small cities that contribute to its unique culture and quality of life,” Commissioner Mosquera-Bruno said. “Whether it’s helping families make essential renovations to their homes, ensuring senior living facilities are ADA compliant, or providing a fire truck for increased services, these grants are essential to upgrade and enhance our smaller towns. We’re aware that this funding is crucial and improves the day-to-day-lives of our residents.”

The Community Hall at Park Hill is available for rent. For more information, call 860-623-8467.

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

Jason Bowsza

East Windsor East Windsor

Orion Protective Services locks down 15 years of security solutions

EAST

— Orion Protective Services, Inc. is celebrating 15 years of providing tailored security solutions to businesses throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Founded in 2010 by President and CEO Ed Ramsdell, the company has grown significantly, adapting to the evolving needs of its clients.

Ramsdell credits this success to a strong partnership approach, emphasizing open communication and mutual respect.

Orion’s success is built on several key pillars: experienced leadership with over 120 years of combined law enforcement and private security experience; 24/7 reliability, with supervisory personnel dispatched within 30 minutes of an emergency; stringent hiring and training processes ensuring highly qualified security personnel; and tailored solutions customized to each client’s

unique needs and operational environment.

The company’s commitment to customer service is evident in its decision-making process, where all team members — from security officers to administrative staff — are encouraged to contribute. This collaborative approach ensures the highest level of success for Orion’s clients.

This 15th anniversary is symbolized by the ruby, representing protection and prosperity — a fitting tribute to Orion’s dedication to safeguarding its clients.

To commemorate this milestone, a series of events are taking place throughout 2025, including employee appreciation events, client recognition ceremonies and a charity fundraiser.

Kisken new business development director

Orion Protective Services has announced the appointment of Gene Kisken as the company’s new director of business development, a move aimed at enhancing the organization’s growth and client engagement in the security services industry.

With a track record in sales and marketing, Kisken brings over two decades of experience that positions him to lead Orion’s business development initiatives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gene Kisken to our team,” Ramsdell said. “His extensive background in business development and deep understanding of our industry will be invaluable as we strive to provide exceptional service and expert guidance to our clients.”

Kisken will be responsible for prospecting new clients, crafting proposals and guiding potential customers through the sales process. His expertise in information technology, management and client development is expected to provide Orion with fresh perspectives and insights, ultimately enhancing the company’s service offerings.

Kisken’s appointment marks a significant expansion for Orion Protective Services.

“Gene’s addition to our team positions us well to

assist new clients and sharpen our focus on providing outstanding customer service from the very first interaction,” Ramsdell said. “His commitment to continuous improvement in communication and client satisfaction aligns perfectly with our mission at Orion.”

Outside of his professional expertise, Kisken’s background as an ice hockey player, coach, and referee underscores his commitment to teamwork — a quality that resonated during his decision to join Orion.

“The emphasis on team focus, philosophy, and the active involvement of leadership in daily operations drew me to the company,” he said.

Now that he has settled into his role, Kisken is even more enthusiastic about the future. “We take a consultative approach to fully understand our customers’ needs and translate those into effective solutions,” he said. “The leadership at Orion is open and supportive, trusting my expertise and empowering me to make decisions that will benefit our clients. I am incredibly excited about my future with Orion.”

Ed Ramsell
Gene Kisken
Broad Brook Fire Chief Retires
On Feb. 13, Broad Brook Fire Department Chief Tom Arcari (at left, pictured with East Windsor Selectman Jason Bowsza) retired. Acari first joined the department in 1979 and has now joined the ranks of the Active Reserve members.

Ellington Ellington

First Selectwoman’s Corner

Grand list completed with overall decrease of 1.46%

ELLINGTON — The completed Oct. 1, 2024, grand list of net taxable property has been completed and signed. This grand list will be reflected on the July 1 tax bills (FY 2025/2026) is summarized below.

This grand list will change due to Board of Assessment Appeals hearings and other routine changes. Below are assessments by category as compared to the post-BAA 2023 grand list:

ciation schedule. Due to technical reasons in the legislation, it was amended, revised and adopted officially for the 2024 grand list.

Decreases in motor vehicle grand list assessments will impact all 169 municipalities in Connecticut. Ellington’s decrease in the motor vehicle grand list is in the middle the statewide range.

It is likely that the motor vehicle grand list will continue to decrease in the coming years as most vehicles age and depreciate in accordance to the adopted depreciation schedule.

The 2024 grand list had a combined assessment decrease of more than $22,800,000, which is an overall decrease of 1.46%.

The biggest item impacting the 2024 grand list is the motor vehicle grand list, which is down 14.21%, or $27,915,990, in net assessment from the 2023. The 2023 motor vehicle grand list itself was down 5.11% from the 2022 motor vehicle grand list. The decrease in motor vehicle assessed values on both the 2023 grand list and the 2022 grand list was expected in advance.

The reason the 2024 Motor Vehicle Grand List decreased by 14.21% is due to a change in how Connecticut municipalities value motor vehicles for assessment purposes. The valuation model used from1993 to 2023 was based on the unadjusted “clean retail” value of vehicles as obtained from the JD Power/NADA valuation guides. In 2022, the Connecticut State Legislature adopted a statute that changed the valuation model to a formula using the vehicle’s original MSRP, minus a set depre-

The real estate grand list increased by 0.22%, or $2,856,580. The real estate grand list was impacted by a new exemption adopted in the Connecticut State Legislature in 2024. The exemption provides an exemption of 100% of dwelling (i.e., the house, not the land) assessed value for permanent and totally disabled veterans. This exemption was applied to over 30 real estate taxpayers, with a total exemption amount of $4,952,140, with another $21,840 applied to motor vehicle assessments.

The 2024 real estate grand list is the last real estate grand list that will be calculated using the revaluation date of Oct. 1, 2020. The town’s next revaluation is scheduled for the grand list of Oct. 1, 2025. As previously noted, real estate values, especially for residential properties, have increased significantly since Oct. 1, 2020.

For the 2024 Grand List, five more properties were added defective concrete list, totaling $352,550 in assessment reduction. while seven more properties were removed from the defective concrete list, totaling $476,720 in assessment reset increase. Ellington currently has 58 properties with reduced assessments due to defective concrete, with a net assessment reduction of $3,695,580. Since the creation of CFSIC (the insurance fund for foundation replacement), 68 homes in Ellington have had their defective concrete foundations replaced.

The personal property grand list reflects an increase of 2.87%, or $2,197,100 in assessment. The number of accounts on the personal property grand list increased from 947 on the 2023 grand list to 950 on the 2024 grand list.

Growth in the personal property grand list is attributed to increases in personal property investment by businesses in town, new businesses in town, and the impact of the ongoing personal property audit process that began in 2024. The noncompliance rate for personal property declaration filings rose slightly from the 2023 grand list from 24% to 25%. Most municipalities in Connecticut report a personal property filing noncompliance rate of over 35%.

Ambulance Corps members recognized at annual banquet

ELLINGTON — The Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc. gathered on Jan. 18, at Georgina’s Italian Restaurant in Bolton to celebrate the dedication and commitment of its members at the annual EVAC banquet.

The evening recognized the extraordinary service of volunteers and staff who have devoted countless hours to

serving the Ellington community.

Members were honored for their years of service — 5 years: Capt. Josh Rosenfeld; 10 years: Dorota Gdula; 15 years: Rachel Oakes-Sollima; 25 years: Kim Courville; 35 years: Renee Cyr; 45 years: Chief Peter Hany Sr.; 55 years: Steve Kratzke

AMBULANCE/Page 9

Runner plans Boston Marathon effort as part of Dana-Farber team

BOSTON — On April 21, Heather Badeau of Ellington is running to defy cancer as a member of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team in the 129th Boston Marathon.

Along with more than 500 DanaFarber Marathon Challenge teammates from across the United States and around the world, they will run Massachusetts’ historic marathon route from Hopkinton to Boston to collectively raise $8.5 million for cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

This year marks the 36th annual running of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge. One hundred percent of the money raised by the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team benefits Dana-Farber’s Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research, which supports promising science research in its earliest stages. The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge has

raised more than $132 million for the Barr Program to date.

In 1990, Dana-Farber was among the first charity organizations to be recognized by the Boston Athletic Association, which organizes the Boston Marathon.

MARATHON/Page 9

When it comes to checking, chances are you can do better. Westfield Bank makes checking easier than ever with:

Presidential Award winners, from left: Bruce Hoffman, Greg York, John Streiber, Alisa Smith, Josh Rosenfeld and Ed Landsberg.
Photo courtesy EVAC
Heather Badeau

Ellington Ellington

Ambulance corps honors members

Continued from page 8

Additionally, the following members received special service awards — Volunteer Service Award: Deputy Chief Nicole Caron; Paid Staff Service Award: Deb Landry-Schiessl

One of the evening’s highlights was a presentation of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards, recognizing individuals for their exceptional volunteer contributions to EVAC:

• Angela Sandberg, EVAC Past President – With Distinction, in honor of more than 55,000 hours of volunteer service

• Peter C. Hany Sr., EVAC president – With Distinction, in honor of more than 50,000 hours of volunteer service

• John Streiber, EVAC past president – In honor of 7,100 hours of volunteer service

• Josh Rosenfeld, EVAC captain – In honor of 6,900 hours of volun-

teer service

• Bruce Hoffman, EVAC vice president – In honor of 6,700 hours of volunteer service

• Ed Landsberg, EVAC member – In honor of 6,200 hours of volunteer service

• Alisa Smith, EVAC member – In honor of 6,000 hours of volunteer service

• Greg York, EVAC member – In honor of 4,600 hours of volunteer service

The banquet featured a delicious dinner, followed by ceremonial speeches from Town of Ellington First Selectman Lori Spielman and Town Administrator Matt Reed, who expressed gratitude for EVAC’s unwavering commitment to public safety.

EVAC was also honored to welcome all members of the Ellington Rescue Post, as well as Town of Ellington Fire Chief Bob Smith and Crystal Lake Fire Chief Tim Sietz.

“The dedication and service of our members are truly inspiring,” said EVAC President Peter C. Hany, Sr. “Each individual honored tonight has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. Their selflessness and commitment to emergency medical services are unparalleled.”

The Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps extends its deepest appreciation to all its members, both past and present, for their dedication to providing lifesaving care to the community.

EVAC looks forward to continuing its mission of service in the years to come.

Continued from page 8

The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team offers its members extensive fundraising support, training guidance from 1976 Boston Marathon Men’s Open Division Champion Jack Fultz, and team training runs. Runners include cancer survivors and patients, and family and friends of those who have been affected by cancer. Each team member must fulfill a basic fundraising commitment. To contribute visit RunDFMC.org or contact 617-632-1970 or dfmc@dfci.harvard.edu. Follow DFMC on Facebook: www.facebook/marathonchallenge.

Heather Badeau Marathon effort set
Peter Hany Sr. and Angela Sandberg receive their Presidential Awards.
Photo courtesy EVAC

From

Stafford Sand & Gravel, LLC has been providing a variety of quality stone and aggregate materials since 1999. We offer the best natural products excavated directly from our quarry in Stafford Springs, Connecticut.

PIONEER BUILDERS

*Restrictions Apply. See Dealer for Details.

Claim shark? What’s a claim shark?

HARTFORD —

As you know, I proudly serve as the House Chair of the Veterans’ Committee.

Many bills work through our committee, but Gov. Ned Lamont requested one bill proposal regarding claim sharks. Both Governor Lamont and Attorney General William Tong have claim shark bills proposed this year.

What’s a claim shark? Claim sharks are unaccredited, for-profit companies that charge high fees for filing disability claims with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on a veteran’s behalf. Oftentimes, these companies wait until after the claim has been approved to tell the veteran there will be fees, sometimes taking a large cut of the veteran’s future disability benefits.

Fraud and identity theft are also a concern, as the veteran may be asked to share logins, passwords, and banking information with the company.

Federal law prohibits companies without accreditation from the VA from charging fees to file these claims. Still, criminal penalties for violations don’t exist (even though these companies are breaking the law), and any congressional efforts to stop or rein in the practice have stalled.

In Connecticut, we aim to create an infrastructure for the attorney general or

Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act for the state to prosecute this predatory process.

Governor Lamont proposes more transparency around this practice, which would require companies to provide veterans with information on fees before the start of the process.

The governor proposes:

• Companies that provide services to notify recipients of all fees in advance of the services being provided and create a written agreement signed by both parties; and

• Companies that provide services to notify veterans in advance that they are not endorsed or affiliated with the VA or the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, also noting that local and federal veteran service organizations may provide this service free of charge.

These same notices must also be included in any advertising related to these services.

Applying for benefits through the VA is free, as is talking to an accredited veteran service officer who can help veterans navigate the process.

In Connecticut, the VA operates Veterans Service Offices in all five of its district offices, including:

• 1st District – Newington Office: 860-594-6606

• 2nd District – Norwich Office: 860887-9162

Accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representatives, attorneys, and claims agents can be found www.benefits.va.gov/vso.

Our veterans earned their benefits –no one should exploit them for profit. This proposal enforces federal protections with more accountability, ensuring transparency and safeguarding veterans from this predatory practice.

As always, if you have questions or concerns, please reach out to me at 860240-8585 or by email at jaime.foster@ cga.ct.gov

Raven enjoys everything under the sun

Continued from Page 3

That’s a claim The Raven was able to quickly corroborate while sifting through endless, mouth-watering sushi, ceviche, barbecue, and delectable desserts among the hundreds of options.

Through it all a steady stream of musical performers and deejays on the main stage gives the festival a partypumping pulse.

And a who’s who of culinary notables kept cellphone cameras of attendees busy all day, as culinary notables like Bobby Flay to Rachael Ray, Guy Fieri, Michael Symon and the like made the rounds between cooking demonstrations, book-signing booths and other special soirees and just-for-fun contests. And why wouldn’t all the big names come? SOBEWFF truly has everything — under the sun.

Stay tuned next installment for some more fun from the Sunshine State. A magical wine and auction fundraiser run by the Orlando Magic basketball team organization, in fact. ’Til then!

Jaime Foster
State Rep. Jaime Foster and Gov. Ned Lamont.
Photo courtesy Governor’s Office

Maria Skyriotis, Chuck Wagon co-owner, known

ELLINGTON — Maria Skyriotis (Skiriotis), beloved wife, mother and yiayia of Ellington, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on Jan. 31, 2025.

She was born in Chios, Greece, on Jan. 23, 1937, to the late Anna Mitsos and Vasilios Sezenias.

Maria immigrated to the United States in September 1969 and settled in Danielson.

Maria worked as a talented seamstress at Gants, where she also sewed and tailored for her family and friends. She later moved to Ellington, and coowned the Ellington Chuck Wagon Restaurant, where she became known for her delicious muffins.

Her greatest passion was caring for her family and friends, often expressing her love through cooking and baking. Maria’s generosity and kind heart touched everyone she met.

She was known for hosting gatherings at her home, serving Greek food and pastries she lovingly prepared. In her spare time, Maria enjoyed reading,

gardening and knitting. She cherished traveling back to her homeland of Chios to spend time with her family and to visit the churches to pray for her loved ones.

Maria was deeply devoted to her Greek Orthodox faith and was an active member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Danielson.

She generously volunteered her time, cooking loukoumades at the annual

With

weather just around

and can help prevent unnecessary breakdowns.

Her greatest passion was caring for her family and friends, often expressing her love through cooking and baking. Maria’s generosity and kind heart touched everyone she met.

Greek festival and sewing altar boy robes and other religiouswhen artifacts.

Maria is survived by her beloved husband Dimitrios of 61 years, her daughter Athena (Tina) Voukounas and husband Kostas (Gus), their children Alex Voukounas and his wife Maria, and their daughters Mia and Sophia; Demetri Voukounas and fiancée Kaitlin Murray; her son Ilias (Loui) and his wife Eleni, and their sons Demetri, Michael, and Christopher. She is also survived by her brother Georgios Sezenias and wife Aggeliki; sisters Rena Deliou and husband Stelios, Evagelia Iosifidis, and Toula Leos; and sisters-in-law Stamatia Fasolas and

Sofia Skyriotis. Maria is also survived by Godsons Vasilios Sezenias and Paul Bowen, as well as many adored nieces and nephews in both the USA and Greece.

Maria was predeceased by her four brothers-in-law: Alekos Iosifidis, Sideri Leos, Mihali Skyriotis and Parasko Fasolas.

Maria leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and faith, and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Maria’s memory to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church – Dome Repair P.O. Box 236, Danielson, CT 06239

Maria Skyriotis (Skiriotis)

Denim & Diamonds event sparkles for Asnuntuck students

ENFIELD —The Asnuntuck Foundation invites you to an evening of fundraising to benefit CT State Asnuntuck student scholarships and programs on Thursday, April 3.

The Denim & Diamonds fundraiser, blending the casual style of blue jeans with the sparkle of bling to benefit students, will be held at the Lodge at Maneely’s at 5 p.m. in South Windsor.

The event will include a cocktail hour, a silent auction and a buffet dinner, with a carving station with desserts provided by Ben & Jerry’s. There is also a selfie station to snap some photos while enjoying live music from the band Acoustic Thunder.

There is a silent auction where participants can bid on a prize for yourself or to give as a gift.

Funds raised during this evening benefit scholarship support and textbook assistance to students enrolled at the CT State Asnuntuck campus.

Last year the Asnuntuck Foundation awarded over $65,000 in scholarship support to more than 100 students. Funds from the foundation also benefit the campus tutoring center and mini-grants for special campus projects.

Sponsorship opportunities are available that offer direct student support, with many including tickets for the event. Tickets are $80 each or $150 for two.

Committee members for the event include Monica Charubin, Vicki Clark, Linda Cote, Cheryl Cyr, Jeffrey Lomma, Keith Madore, Robyn Lee Miller, Connie Provencher, Timothy St. James, Emily Santaniello and Richard Stroiney.

To purchase tickets and learn more about the event and sponsorship opportunities visit https://asnuntuck.edu/donate/. Call Keith Madore at 860-2533041 or email kmadore@ctstate.edu for more info.

9 Enfield High School custodians fired

ENFIELD — Nine custodians at Enfield High School were terminated on Feb. 11. The employees all worked the second shift at the school and were charged with “theft of time.”

The employees were formerly employed by town Department of Works under the Custodial Service Division Department.

Enfield Director of Human Services Steven Bielenda confirmed that the involved parties were fired via a letter received Feb. 10 after officials reviewed video footage obtained during December and January showing the employees taking extensive breaks while on the clock.

According to reports — and also confirmed by Bielenda —the termination letters stated that “instead of working your assigned tasks, the video shows you remaining in the break room for several hours before exiting the room.”

The confirmed report goes on to allege that the total cost to the town from the time theft observed would be somewhere in the $5,580 ballpark.

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.

From left, CT State Community College employees Karen Dardanelli, Chad Glabach, Jennifer Brown, Stacey Muslin and Beth Egan at the 2024 Denim and Diamonds event.
Courtesy Photo Foundation to Host Denim & Diamonds Fundraiser at Maneely’s

TOP 3 for Patient Experience in CT

FROM THE CENTERS FOR MEDICARE AND MEDICAID SERVICES (CMS)

Johnson Memorial Hospital Named Among Connecticut’s Top Three for Patient Experience

Johnson Memorial Hospital is proud to announce that it has been named among the top three hospitals in Connecticut for patient experience by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. The ranking is the result of patient answers to questions about overall hospital performance during their stay, where patients are asked to rate the facility on a scale of 0 to 10.

“At Johnson Memorial Hospital, our clinical colleagues and support staff work as a team to put our patients at the center of everything we do. This recognition from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid clearly shows the success of our ongoing efforts to deliver first-rate care and service excellence,” said Robert Roose, M.D., MPH, President, Johnson Memorial Hospital and Mercy Medical Center.

Learn more at TrinityHealthOfNE.org

Regional Regional

Women Take Flight during March 8 event

WINDSOR LOCKS — The New England Air Museum’s annual Women Take Flight event takes place Saturday, March 8, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The museum’s family friendly celebration of women in aerospace features hands-on activities, flight simulators, open cockpit experiences in historic aircraft, lectures and opportunities to meet local women in the aerospace industry.

This year’s event will feature two panel presentations.

Pratt & Whitney: Celebrating 100 Years of Innovation & Inspiring Future Generations starts at 11 a.m. Hear from Pratt employees about the important work they do for the aerospace industry.

The second panel features women from the 103rd Airlift Wing, CT Air National Guard, at 1 p.m. The 103rd Airlift Wing “Flying Yankees” are based at Bradley International Airport

The annual Women Take Flight event at the New England Air Museum takes place March 8. Photo courtesy NEAM

and provide tactical airpower and mission support for Connecticut and the country.

Visitors will have the opportunity to climb aboard several of the museum’s historic aircraft including the Lockheed 10A Electra, which is rarely open for public viewing. The Electra is just two serial numbers away from the aircraft that aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart was flying when she disappeared. Activities for visitors of all ages will be available and visitors are encouraged to participate in Women Take Flight bingo for a prize.

Crumbling Foundations Caucus keeps working toward remedy

HARTFORD — A Feb. 6 informational forum regarding the ongoing crumbling foundations crisis occurring in communities throughout northern and north-central Connecticut, hosted by the Crumbling Foundations Caucus, saw legislators discuss the bipartisan importance of a final $100 million four-year investment in the program to complete remediation work for more than 3,000 homeowners and families impacted by the quality of their homes’ foundations.

Since 2015, the crumbling foundations crisis has unfolded after revelations that thousands of homes in Connecticut utilized concrete in their foundations containing the mineral pyrrhotite. When that mineral is exposed to water and air, it degrades, and numerous homeowners have struggled with their homes becoming dangerous or uninhabitable.

Members of the Crumbling

Foundations Caucus, a bipartisan coalition of regional legislators including state Sens. Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) and Jeff Gordon (R-Woodstock) and state Reps. Tom Delnicki (R-South Windsor), Tammy Nuccio (R-Tolland), Kurt Vail (R-52), Tim Ackert (R-8), Jaime Foster (D-Ellington, East Windsor) and Kevin Brown (D-Vernon) have cointroduced Senate Bill 547, which seeks to authorize an additional $100 million to provide aid to the Crumbling Foundations Assistance Fund, which aids the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company, Inc.

“We are doing well in respect to taking care of our communities, but that work must continue, and it should continue through the well-oiled machine of the Connecticut Foundations Solutions Indemnity Company,” Anwar said.

CAUCUS/Page 30

Somers Somers

åSOMERS — These students were named to the Somers High School second quarter honor roll.

Grade 9 high honors: Christopher Burzynski, Ajalicia Caetano, Connor Clarity, Victoria Demolinari, Wyatt Estes, Ryan Guerin, Ryan Hoague, Emmalyn Humber, Cooper Leiphart, Keegan McLaughlin, Peyten Modzelewski, Adele St. Laurent, Benjamin Wetherington, Sophia Wojtanowski.

Grade 9 honors: Samuel Balestriere, Jasmine Barnaby, William Burdick, Juliana Cianci, Brennyn Connors, Justin Czerwinski, Samantha D’Amour, Ari Dultz, Michael Fay, Lily Fitzgerald, Kayleigh Francis, Joshua Giupponi, Aiden Hevey, Cali Ingalls, Tyler KnightTemple, Bennett Kukucka, Alasdair Liggett, Mia Malley, Logan McGuinness, Owen Mira, Lila Munsell, Angelina Olejarz, Haileigh Percoski, Grant Pinney, Julien Ramos, Jacob Ruggiero, Aleena Sheridan, Mackenzie Smith, Andres Stebbins, Mia Steele, Addison Tabb, Sarah Wood.

Grade 10 high honors: Jonathan Breton, Parker Byo, Abigail Cardwell, Jacob Carra, Addison Cassidy, Carolyn Castonguay, Jessica Chen, Katelyn Curran, Alexander Gallacher, Lainey Joyal, Callie Kobjack, Alexa Kukulka, Hannah Litz, Riya Patel, Sydney Pinney, Aiden Ritch, Jayden Root.

Grade 10 honors: Emma Besta, Ana Bray, Henry Burda, Logan Caye, Emily Chagnon, Charlee Cyr, Andrew Czerwinski, Kevin Davis, Jaysen de la Cruz, Faith DeMars, Edward DePeau IV, Isaac Diaz, Reiley Donald, Aja Drammeh, Drew Emlen, Matthew Halmers, Jacoby Hawkins, Aubrielle Hevey, Hadley Hogan, Damien Huestis, Max Kelleher-Slocum, Kayden Levesque, Madeline Marcoux, Alexis McCauley, Meadow Moore, Liam Obernesser, Harold Riddle, Addison Riggins, Kaelina Rinaldi, Connor Ritch, Ella Ryll, Gionny Sabater, Holt Serrano, Noah Serrell-Dube, Alexa Thiesing, Brodie White, Alexandra Wolters.

Grade 11 high honors: Riley Maurice, Andrew Orlandi, Zoe Root, Declan Sutter.

Grade 11 honors: Roth Butler, Ethan Caetano, Cole Delskey, Madeleine Dennis, Delaney Drinan, Claire Gaskell, Theodore

Grzelak, Natalie Hoague, Drew Hoffman, Samuel Kay, Sophia LaBua, Haley Loveland, Benjamin Medrek, Madison Messenger, Madison Nowakowski, Leo Nunes, Daniella Percoski, Evan Poulin, Madeleine Salka, Hailey Schafer, Julia Settevendemie, Diya Sharma, Maya Skalski, Molly Tabb, Nicholas Zawrotny.

Grade 12 high honors: Leighanna Antonmarchi, Noelle Benedict, Kathryn Burnett, Avery D’Amour, Ethan Hartman, Cody Marks, Juliette Mira, Katelyn Provencher, Jocelyn Randall, Alyssa Reynolds, Maya Serrano.

Grade 12 honors: Tatiana Arruda, Jack Brayton, Stephanie Burzynski, Mia Cardinale, Sydney Cassidy, Jack Chester, Emma Cicciarella, Aiden Clarity, Ava DePeau, Lily Duff, James Gall Emma Grimes, Madeline Guyette, Lyndsey Hale, Alyzabeth Halmers, Charlotte Hight, Bryce Huestis, Cowen Joyal, Ariana Kempton, Aubrie Kobjack, Aiden Leiphart, Cooper Leonard, Kinsey Loupe, Devin Nethercott, Evan Olearczyk, Fiona Pham, Brennan Pierce, Cristian Rosulschi, Thomas Saso, Maggie Sikoski, Nico Skalski, Brooke Stevens.

Regional Regional

Caucus aims to shore up foundation work

Continued from Page 29

“In order to do that, we need to continue to take care of our neighbors, and this bonding request would help us accomplish that goal. Thousands of families are relying on this vital lifeline.”

“This has been such a daunting issue, and we have light at the end of the tunnel, but we need to stay focused on this,” Delnicki said.

According to a presentation given by CSFIC superintendent Michael Marglaras, that $100 million, which would be distributed in $25 million allotments over four years from the 2026-27 to 2029-30 fiscal years, would effective-

ly ensure the LLC would be able to complete the work necessary according to its projections of future claimants.

Since the crisis began, Marglaras said, CSFIC has received $230 million in revenue and 3,292 applications for assistance through the end of 2024. Projections indicate that those claims are slowing, but there’s still the potential for a range of 800 to 1,300 additional claimants through 2030.

Vernon, Tolland, Manchester, South Windsor and Stafford are the five mostimpacted communities in Connecticut, Marglaras said, each of them having more than 200 claimants. Vernon has had more than 400.

• Member Rewards Program

• Free Pick & Delivery (Up To 10 Miles)

• Multi-Car Family Discounts

• 2 Year, 24,000 Miles Nationwide Warranty

• Factory Scheduled Maintenance

• Engine And Transmission Replacement

• Check Engine And Emission Repairs

• Brakes & Suspension

• Exhaust Repair & Replacement

• Tire Rack Dealer/Distributor

• Heating & AC

• Complete Collision Services

• Welcoming All Insurance Companies

• Rust And Restoration Repair & Body Panel Replacement

• Glass Replacement • Flexible Credit Options

Tough budget year amid state legislation changes

SOMERS — This year has proven to be a financially challenging one for the town of Somers as it grapples with significant budgetary constraints. The difficulties stem from recent legislative unfunded mandates and other financial pressures that have impacted the town's revenue streams.

Last year, the state of Connecticut enacted Public Act 22-118, which altered the formula for motor vehicle assessments statewide. Vehicles are now assessed based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and a standardized depreciation schedule. This change has resulted in a substantial loss of $543,352 in tax revenue for Somers.

Additionally, Public Act 24-46 expanded property tax exemptions for totally disabled veterans. While this initiative aims to support those who have served, it has further reduced the town’s tax revenue by $101,360.

These legislative changes, combined with a decline in state aid and the growth of tax-exempt solar farms in the town, have created a challenging financial landscape. Town leadership has been working diligently to address these issues, but the solutions are complex and not unique to Somers. Municipalities across the state are facing similar challenges.

Local leaders have been vocal in their calls for the state legislature to amend these laws or provide additional funding to help bridge the gap. However, the outcome of these requests remains uncertain. In the meantime, the first selectman, Board of Selectmen, chief financial officer, Board of Education and Board of Finance have been rigorously reviewing budgets to identify potential savings.

Despite their efforts, it is clear that some difficult decisions lie ahead. The town has determined that it needs to generate over $1 million (equivalent to a 1 mill tax increase) to cover the revenue loss due to the state unfunded mandates. Additionally, rising costs in areas such as energy, waste hauling, health insurance and minimum wage increases are exacerbating the financial strain.

The town is committed to minimizing the impact of any necessary tax increases on residents while striving to maintain essential services and education funding. Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming Board of Finance meetings to learn more about the budget and to attend the public hearing on April 22 to voice their opinions and ask questions.

For more information or to express concerns, residents can contact First Selectman Tim Keeney at tkeeney@somersct.gov or Chief Financial Officer Brian Wissinger at bwissinger@somersct.gov.

Business of the Month

Imagine a store where you could shop for a halfhour and never see the same item twice — a store with an amazing variety of items for every aspect of life. That store is K K’s This and That at 138 Main St., the Somers Business of the Month for February. It was nominated for innovative products and excellent customer service. The award was presented to store owners Del and Karen Campbell by Somers First Selectman Tim Keeney. Patrons from any community can nominate a Somers business for the award. Nominations can be sent by email to EDCSomers@gmail.com, or by regular mail to EDC, 600 Main St., Somers, CT 06071.

Photo courtesy of First Selectman’s Office

Luck Is On Your Side Lower Your Mortgage Rate Once No Fees, No Hassle!

clover to save big! If mortgage rates drop within the first five years of your loan, you can float down your rate one time—with NO fees and NO refinancing hassle! Contact Michael Kelley at 413.636.4053 or mkelley@arrhacu.com and learn more today.

First Selectman’s Corner
Tim Keeney

MAR 13 - 16

Somers Somers

Rotary Club offering scholarships

SOMERS — The Rotary Club of Somers is offering scholarships to high school seniors who reside in Somers.

Three of the scholarships are in recognition of past Somers Rotarians.

The Chipouras scholarship honors

Peter Chipouras and is awarded to a student seeking a vocational career. The Bordeaux scholarship is in honor of past Somers Rotary President, Cliff Bordeaux, who passed away in 2020. The Larabee scholarship is in honor of past Somers Rotary President, John Larabee, who passed away in 2022.

Application forms can be obtained from the Somers High School Guidance Department or downloaded from its website: https://hs.somers.k12.ct.us/counseling_and_support_services (see scholarship information section).

Applications must be postmarked by Saturday, April 12.

Applications are evaluated based upon academic performance, community service, extra-curricular activities, sports, leadership, and financial need.

Applicants also are required to submit an essay explaining what the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” means to them and how it might apply to their future endeavors.

Recipients of this year’s scholarships will be recognized at the Somers High School Senior Awards program and at a Wednesday night Rotary meeting in June.

Over the years, the Somers Rotary Club has awarded over $325,000 in scholarships. Funding for scholarships is raised through Rotary community events.

Cold weather warmth

Somers Lions Club members delivered winter clothing, including shirts, sweaters and socks, to the Somers Veterans Affairs office for distribution to veterans in need in Somers and surrounding towns.

courtesy of Somers Lions

College honors

ATLANTA — Jacob Avery of Somers was named to the fall 2024 Dean’s List at Georgia State University.

To be eligible for the Dean’s List, degree-seeking students must have earned a grade-point average of at least 3.5 for a minimum of nine semester hours of academic credit taken at Georgia State during the fall or spring term with no incompletes for the semester. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for all classes taken at Georgia State.

Photo

Stafford Stafford

STAFFORD — These students were named to the second quarter honor roll at Stafford High School.

Grade 9 high honors: Kaiden Bobskill, Kinsley Burns, Caden Crisantemi, Sam Cromwell, Caitlyn Daigneau, Annabelle Dombrowick, Timothy Dombrowick, Caiden Donaldson, Jackson Frassinelli, Bentley Gaulin, NourAlhouda Hadj Salem, Megan Introvigne, Susannah Myles, Molly Pace, Maggie Skorupski, Landon Tozier, Addison Vail, Matthew Wierzchowski.

Grade 9 honors: Luke Balsewicz, Ella Biedrzycki, Ian Curnan, Tai Dang, Kason Holland, Andrew Irwin, Nathan Kodzis, Isabella Marchesseault, Alexis Oleksak, Marian Pace, Jeremiah Sheridan, Aubrey Smith, Kendra Tellert, Sophie Tumulis, Riley Unger, Oliver Warren.

Grade 10 high honors: Bella Arcouette, Liam Blodgett, Andrew Broderick, Tristan Follansbee, Caitlin Lemoine, Mason Leone, Joshua Maciolek, Wyatt Marin, Faith Morel, Rylee Murphy, Francine Ostulano,

Samuel Parnell, Gabriella Privedenyuk, Kayla Rockett, Douglas Vining, Leila Young.

Grade 10 honors: Hailey Armstrong, Paige Barcellos, Bria Coran, Madeline Corpus, Grace Emhoff, Nathan Faber, Natalie Friedrich, Michael Frost, Gabrielle Fuller, Austin Goff, Ava Hasel, Grace Hoffman, Abigail Pucci, Keira Sullivan, Stephen Tantillo, Ella Trainor, Jayden Wentworth.

Grade 11 high honors: Callie Augusto, Jillian Bailey, Juliana Balsewicz, Adriana Bennett, Alexandra Chetelat, Dominic Curnan, Kaylie Davis, Marisol Galiotsos, Alaina Guay, Emilie Hurley, Austin Irwin, Erica Kearns, Colin Ladd, Richard Lavoice, Thomas Mayo, Olivia Melanson, Matthew Morse, William Pekrul, Sean Puglisi, Aaron Sfreddo, Jillian Verney, Colin Viger.

Grade 11 honors: Joseph Biedrzycki, Lillian Bushior, Jamie Chrzanowski, Bella Coporale, Kiley Glazier, Bryce Gudeman, Gavin Iacobucci, Bridget Kula, Lincoln Morro,

Sara Sklenka, Brodi Smith, Brenten Stevens, Ethan Strout, Colin Tozier, Yvonne Triska, Jayden Yarrows.

Grade 12 high honors: Hunter Adams, Carolyn Beebe, Jacob Bouchard, Alexander Class, Andrew Conceicao, Anthony Coporale, Nicole Cunha, Jonathan Emhoff, Anna Fahey, Liam Gilbert, Ryan Haff, Elizabeth Hansen, Gabrielle Hurt, Jaden Hurt, Kaiden Jellison, Jadyn Kun, Molly Merritt, Elissa Munoz, Ella Ohlendorf,

Henry Pace, Alison Panciera, Kaylah Pellegrino, Daniel Pucci, Ash Silvernail, Samantha Simlick, Javon Stigler

Grade 12 honors: Kaleb Arcouette, Ashton Broderick, Samantha Collette, Rylee Conceicao, Kaylib Dorbat, Layla Gustin, Jack Harvell, Kara Hoefle, Nathan Kobee, Nathaniel Kozaczuk, Johnathan Mason, Gianni Paradiso, Mia Paradiso, Matthew Regini, Jonas Rodriguez, Lillian Spada, Logan Wolf, Tyler Wolf.

High quality healthcare does not have to come at a high cost. Dr. William S Garrity is one of about 12 doctors in the state board-certi昀ed in Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. He is Board-certi昀ed in family medicine, belongs to numerous professional organizations, and he is your hometown doctor - right here in Suf昀eld! 200 A Mountain Rd., Suffield, CT 06078 860 668 4767

Convenient HOURS: Mon, Wed, Thurs: 10 AM to 8:30 PM • Tuesday: Closed Available for emergencies. Friday:10 AM to 7:30 PM

Stafford Stafford

STAFFORD — I was honored to attend a Tolland County Farm Bureau gathering at Rockville High School, where discussions focused on issues impacting agriculture and challenges facing the farming community — topics especially relevant to Stafford.

Many members, along with legislators including U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, emphasized the importance of keeping local farming in the spotlight during the upcoming budget season and advocating for federal grants to support rural farming.

Another recent highlight was the grand opening of the second phase of the Woodland Springs project, attended by Gov. Ned Lamont and Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno. Both praised the remarkable work and progress made at the Woodland Springs facility.

I also attended a meeting at Johnson Memorial Hospital to discuss hospital funding and operational procedures. The meeting highlighted the importance of supporting local hospitals, particularly in the northeast part of the state. The host provided an update on the new cancer center in Enfield and emphasized the services available at JMH. While the Med-Surge, Emergency Department, OR and ICU are performing well, like many small hospitals, it is operating at a deficit. A request for state funding to support the hospital has been submitted. It’s crucial we continue to monitor the progress of JMH and advocate for the continuation of services in Stafford.

A Feb. 27 meeting at the Stafford Community Center gathered input from residents on two important considerations: consolidating polling locations for future elections and making the positions of town clerk and tax collector appointed rather than elected. Currently, these

roles are elected positions in Stafford, with candidates nominated by each political party. One candidate is elected to each position for a two-year term during the November elections in odd-numbered years.

There are pros and cons to each side of the debate, with the proposed changes stemming from the level of expertise and experience required for the roles, as well as the technical nature of these positions in maintaining order within municipal government. The proposal to make these positions appointed aims to establish clear requirements and job descriptions, which could broaden the candidate pool and facilitate structured succession planning.

This meeting also addressed the possibility of consolidating polling locations from three to one. This seeks to reduce costs. Due to new early voting laws, the expense of fully staffing three locations to meet the 4-, 7-, and 14-day requirements is placing a significant financial burden on taxpayers.

Woodland Springs project.
Photo courtesy First Selectman’s Office

Regional Regional

Reval on agenda in Stafford

You can access the recording of this meeting by visiting the town website at staffordct.org/government/recordings.php.

The town has contracted with Vision Government Solutions for the townwide property revaluation for the Oct. 1 grand list. Stafford’s last revaluation was in 2020 and Connecticut law requires a revaluation every five years.

Starting in the spring Vision appraisers will conduct street-level verification and update necessary photos for all properties. If a full inspection is needed, this will include measuring buildings, taking photos and conducting brief interior inspections (typically 5-15 minutes). Homeowners will sign a form confirming the inspection. Vision employees will carry photo IDs, townissued IDs, and their vehicles will be registered with the Stafford Police Department. Homeowners should request ID before allowing entry. For verification, contact the Assessor’s Office or the Stafford Police Department. Inspections will generally take place between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and occasional Saturdays.

For more information, including a Vision staff introduction letter (with vehicle make/models) and additional resources, visit staffordct.org/departments/assessor or call 860-684-1786.

Electric bills have become quite a shock

Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 35 Lawn & Landscape Installations

Bills in this state are averaging $203. While Connecticut residents actually use less electricity than most Americans —716 kWh compared to the U.S. average of 899 kWh per month — they face steep average rates of 24.61 cents per kWh, 64% higher than the national average of 15.04 cents.

On Feb 11, state Rep. Jamie Foster (D-East Windsor, Ellington, Vernon) joined fellow state Reps. Jennifer Leeper (D-Fairfield, Southport) and Jonathan Steinberg (D-Westport) for a press conference addressing electric rates and regulatory accountability at the Capitol.

“Grid-enhancing technologies and stronger transmission planning can help lower energy costs by improving grid efficiency and resilience,” Foster said. “Transmission investments by utilities are guaranteed a return on their investment and 10% profits. We need a strong regulator to guarantee these investments are in the best interest of the ratepayers, not shareholders.”

State Rep. Tami Zawistowski (RSuffield, East Granby, Windsor Locks) echoed Foster’s concerns and adds that House Republicans have formulated a multi-prong solution to the problem that has been relentlessly hitting Connecticut resident’s checkbooks.

“Connecticut faces a number of energy issues including the need to pipe in natural gas from outside the Northeast, reluctance to expand nuclear power, green energy initiatives that are not yet viable, strong demand from consumers, and a four-year shutoff

“Connecticut faces a number of energy issues including the need to pipe in natural gas from outside the Northeast, reluctance to expand nuclear power, green energy initiatives that are not yet viable, strong demand from consumers, and a four-year shutoff moratorium that has ballooned the public benefits charge.” — State Rep. Tami Zawistowski

moratorium that has ballooned the public benefits charge,” Zawistowski said. “In an effort to help ratepayers and provide stability for the future, House Republicans proposed a six-point plan. This includes removing the public benefits charge from electric bills, studying ways to increase the state’s natural gas supply, redefining “Class 1 renewable energy sources” to include electricity generated from hydropower or nuclear facilities, capping state energy pur-

chase commitments at 150% of the wholesale cost, eliminating EV incentive programs, and separating the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to ensure more independence. I hope that our proposals will be seriously considered and adopted during the ongoing legislative session, providing much-needed relief for ratepayers who have been enduring sky-high electricity bills”

Bobcat Service • Spring Cleanups

Patios & Retaining Walls

Stump Grinding Brush Chipping • Brush Clearing Light Excavation

Suffield Suffield

Suffield Players raise curtain on scholarship opportunities

SUFFIELD — Applications are open for The Suffield Players’ Eugene Biggio Memorial Drama Scholarship and Robert Alcorn Memorial Arts Scholarship. These two scholarships honor the contributions of key figures in The Suffield Players; history and support aspiring artists in pursuing their passion for the performing arts.

Biggio Scholarship

Created in 1989 to honor Eugene Biggio, a former president of The Suffield Players, this scholarship supports students in grades K–11 who wish to further their education in the performing arts.

• Award amount: Ranges from $250 to $1,000, depending on the recipient’s program and the number of scholarships awarded.

• Eligibility: Candidates must meet at least one of the following:

• Resident of Suffield;

• Member of The Suffield Players;

• Relative of a Suffield resident or a Suffield Players member.

• Study areas include: acting, vocal performance, dance, playwriting, backstage management, technical design (lighting/sound), and more.

Alcorn Scholarship

Established in 1981 to honor Robert Alcorn, one of The Suffield Players’

founding members, this scholarship provides funding to students in their senior year of high school or beyond who are pursuing formal arts education.

• Award amount: Ranges from $250 to $1,000.

• Eligibility: Candidates must meet at least one of the following:

• Resident of Suffield.

• Member of The Suffield Players;

8AM-10PM 8AM-10PM

LARGEST SELECTION OF: PRE-ROLLS, VAPES, FLOWER, EDIBLES,

• Relative of a Suffield resident or a Suffield Players member.

• Study areas Include: Acting, dance, playwriting, directing, technical design, stage management and other performing arts disciplines.

Application details

The deadline to apply for both scholarships is May 1. Applicants must submit a completed application form, personal essay outlining study plans and goals, a résumé of past performing arts experience (if any), and one reference letter.

Applications and supporting materials can be submitted via mail to:

The Suffield Players, P.O. Box 101, Suffield, CT 06078, or electronically to info@suffieldplayers.org.

Scholarships will be presented at The Suffield Players’ annual meeting in June, and funds will be issued upon confirmation of enrollment in an approved program or institution.

Fridays & Saturdays 8am-9pm

Please consume responsibly. Keep out of reach of children. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. For use only by adults 21 years or older or persons holding a patient registration card.

A cast photo from The Suffield Players’ February presentation of “A Few Good Men.” Photo courtesy Suffield Players

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.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.