North Central News March 2024

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:14 PM Page 1

MARCH 2024

FREE Guide INSIDE!

Enfield looks for new school superintendent ENFIELD — The Enfield Public Schools are looking for a new superintendent, as Chris Drezek will be stepping down to take the same position in Old Saybrook effective in May. Drezek has been Enfield’s superintendent since July 1, 2017.

Prior to that Drezek served as deputy superintendent for the Enfield Public Schools five years. Drezek’s career with the Enfield Public Schools began in 2004 as the district’s business manager.

DREZEK/Page 25

Chris Drezek

Cooling and Heating anywhere in your home CHOOSE DUCTLESS ‘EGG-spress Service’ Peter Cottontail himself hops over to the Connecticut Trolley Museum the last two weekends in March for Easter photos and fun. For more information, see page 6, this issue.

Courtesy photo

Perfect for Additions, Home O ces, Workout Rooms, Finished Basements & Attics.

Trust

Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. Heating & Cooling Contractors

1.99/ gal.

CT LIC #393553 | HOD #59

$

860.684.9123

www.williamsfueloil.com

Incredibly e cient.

Save on energy bills.

No more space heaters.

Provides both AC and heating.

LEARN MORE. CALL

(860) 684-9485

Sta昀ordHeatingandCooling.com CT S-1 #303633

I N V E S T M E N T & MEDICARE OPTIONS

*Price valid for customer-owned tanks only, through March 31, 2024.

Your local HOME HEATING provider

Let us Simplify your choices 860.749.0482 48 South Road, Unit 2, P.O. Box 398 Somers, CT 06071 Call our office to schedule an individual appointment.

www.statelineseniorservices.com

Local Postal Customer

PRST-STD U.S. Postage Paid Springfield, MA Permit No.142

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:14 PM Page 2

TrinityHealthOfNE.org/ER

Our ER treats the whole person, not just your emergency.

In a true health emergency, every minute matters. Johnson Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department is committed to providing you safe, efficient care.

Johnson Memorial Hospital remains committed to exceeding the expectations of our patients and their families and provide world-class service in a people-centered, compassionate environment, right in your backyard.

At Johnson Memorial Hospital our expert team of clinicians sees the whole person, not just your emergency.

Open 24 hours a day—365 days a year.Open 24 hours a day—365 days a year.

2 North Central News March 2024

To view our current ER wait times, visit TrinityHealthOfNE.org/ER.

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/28/24 7:30 AM Page 3

Random Raven

North Central Publishing dba

Cirque Returns; Denim & Diamonds at ACC

By Gary Carra Welcome back to Random Raven, the column that aspires to provide nothing less than serving as your guide to all things equal parts interesting and entertaining in the area.

As we march into March, the Raven finds notable tidbits popping up like mushrooms after a Spring rainstorm.

The first of which actually begins in April, but since tickets for Cirque Du Soleil’s BAZZAR are already on sale – and certain to sell out fast – there’s no time like the present to...well, present this information.

Created in 2018 and toured everywhere from India and Oman to the United Arab Emirates, Quater, Turkey and Brazil - to name a choice few - BAZZAR makes its Connecticut debut April 6 and runs through May 5.

Literally rolling out everything from acro-bikes, duo rollerskates, teeterboards and hair suspensions, this - the 39th Cirque production in the organization’s 43-year history, will set up shop under the big top on Hartford’s Market Street. Tickets range from $52-$157 depending on the date of

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

860.394.4262 : FAX NorthCentralNews@aol.com

Email:

performance and course, your proximity to the grandiosity. Special meet and greet add-on packages are also available for an additional $29.

To purchase yours, kindly point your browser to: cirquedusoleil.com/bazzar In other news, the Asnuntuck Foundation has announced its next scholarship fundraiser - Denim & Diamonds, will occur April 4. It’s country music clashing with classy or casual attire - your choice - amidst a backdrop of cocktails and a carving station. Tickets are $80 per person or $150 for a pair. To purchase yours, visit asnuntuck.edu/donate

NO FOMO HERE

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

Above, local notables Acoustic Thunder will bring the noise to the Asnuntuck Foundation’s latest fundraiser - dubbed Denim & Diamonds - on April 4. Below, Cirque Du Soleil returns to Hartford under the big top with BAZZAR. The popular production pits everything from contortionists to teeterboards and runs from April 6-May 5.

Courtesy photos

1VCMJTIFS &EJUPS

Gary Carra "TTJTUBOU 5P 5IF 1VCMJTIFS

Jen Phillips (FOFSBM . BOBHFS

Emily Carra "DDPVOU &YFDVUJWFT

Gary Carra Sr. Joan ornbu e $POUSJCVUFS 8 SJUFST

aura .

a

en

$PN N VOJUZ 0VUSFBDI

Joshua Torres Publishers Policy Information presented in the North Central News is presented for your consideration and does not necessarily represent views of the publisher or its advertisers. All information is checked for accuracy, but cannot be guaranteed.

Liability for errors in advertising is limited to rerun of the ad. Errors in advertising should be brought to the attention of the publisher in writing, within seven days of publication for appropriate credit.

Live Music ~ Special Events ~ Chef Specials ~ Specialty Craft Cocktails

The Gathering Place For Good Food & Good Times 175 WEST ROAD, (MEADOWVIEW PLAZA), ELLINGTON 860-454-4458

March 2024 North Central News

Stay in the Know!

Follow us on social media and visit www.jregosgatheringplace.com

3

4 North Central News March 2024

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:14 PM Page 4

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/28/24 7:33 AM Page 5

East Windsor First Selectman’s Corner

Budget process in town is open, inclusive EAST WINDSOR — As we turn to March, the municipal budget cycle is underway.

The process for local budget develJason Bowsza opment in East Windsor is a very open and inclusive process.

To start, department heads are asked to submit their budget requests to the first selectman in late December. In January, Finance Director Amy O’Toole and I meet with representatives of departments and agencies requesting funds, we review their submissions, and make an initial budgetary recommendation to the Board of Selectmen.

After the Board of Selectmen holds budget workshops on each budget submission, any changes deemed necessary by the board are made, and the revised budget recommendation is presented to the Board of Finance.

That presentation, jointly with the Board of Education budget, will be held

on March 27 ahead of the Board of Finance’s public hearing on the budget.

Then the Board of Finance gets to work fine tuning the requests from the town and the Board of Education, prior to submission to the voters for consideration at referendum.

Preliminarily included in this year’s budget is a key new initiative that I think is important, and long overdue – funding for an emergency management drill pertaining to active shooter response.

The concept is to engage all our emergency services (fire, police, EMS, public works, and social services) in a live drill to respond to an active shooter situation.

It is critical that all disciplines drill together to know how to respond to the unthinkable happening in our community.

Each of our emergency services have individual responsibilities, but also seek to work fluidly in a unified Ccommand model, and we need to constantly drill together as a team to accomplish that.

The Connecticut Trolley Museum 58 North Road, East Windsor, CT 06088

How do we establish and secure a perimeter? How do we establish a hot zone vs. a warm zone vs. a cold zone?

Who has control of the scene? What is the reunification point that would be used? How would we communicate events and information to the public?

All these questions and more are critical to our response.

We hope to never need to employ this type of response in our community, but we can all agree that we need to be prepared to do so if called upon.

This is one meaningful step in enhancing our community’s emergency response, but it is not the only one in progress.

Beginning on April 1, the East Windsor Police Department will be establishing an eight-week Citizens Academy, where officers and professional staff will be able to provide insight into the varied functions of a twenty-first century police department.

The hope is that this Citizens Academy will continue momentum toward the establishment of an East Windsor Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which will be able to assist first responders where our community is faced with response

needs such as road closures, shelter staffing, supply distribution, and more.

The Citizens Academy and CERT Team are initiatives being undertaken

by Police Chief Matthew Carl and Deputy Chief Benjamin Murphy, who also serve as the town’s director and deputy director of Emergency Management, respectively.

And finally, as we continue to enhance our emergency preparedness, a note of congratulations is due to Chief Carl, who recently secured state approval of our local emergency response plan, an update that had not been filed with and approved by the state since 2014.

Our emergency management team, comprised of representatives from the police department, fire departments, emergency medical services, public works, social services, town finance, and myself, recognize that providing for public safety is one of the foremost responsibilities of local government, and we are taking meaningful steps to ensure and strengthen our collective response to best protect our community.

In East Windsor, our best days are ahead, and we continually seek to be prepared.

More info: 860-627-6540

www.ct-trolley.org

Have info you want to share?

March Events Advanced tickets Sales for the Easter Events only at www.ct-trolley.org

Saturday, March 2, 9 Kids Arts & Crafts 10am - 4pm

Saturday, March 16 New Operator & Jr Operator Training

Saturday, March 23, 24 Easter Eggspress Trolley 10 am - 4 pm Easter Eggspress Trolley 10 am - 4 pm

Saturday, March 30 Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8 am-10 am

Saturday, March 30 Eggspress Trolley 10 am - 4 pm

The

Growth Company

167 Hazard Ave, Enfield, CT • (860) 749-9237 • (800) 594-9516

Now Visit Us Online at www.thegrowthco.com WE DELIVER LOCALLY AND WORLDWIDE

Easter Decorations

Easter Lilies • Spring Flowers

$

5 OFF

any purchase of $30 or more.

Excludes fresh flowers.

Expires 3/31/24.

March 2024 North Central News

Friday, March 29

northcentralnews@aol.com

5

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:15 PM Page 6

East Windsor Swapnil Sahoo, Micah Vong.

Crespo, Michael Dziadul, Carlymanuel Honor roll EW Community Gomez De Jesus, Zoe McNamara, Nana Honors Adwoa Nyarko, Olivia Page, Angelous EAST WINDSOR — These students Fund awards Christopher Clark, Jack Clifford, Walton, Mykala Welch, Nora Whalen. were named to the second quarter honor Decker, Mikaela Diaz-Martinez, $28,000 to groups roll at East Windsor Middle School. Ruth Grade 5 Natalie Dionne, Madison Griffin, EAST WINDSOR — The East Windsor Greater Together Community Fund awarded more than $28,000 in grants to nonprofit groups for projects focused on meeting town needs in 2023.

This brings the total amount awarded to nonprofits working to improve the quality of life for residents in the last three years to over $96,000.

The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving established the E.W. Community Fund, along with community funds for all 29 Greater Hartford towns, in 2020, including endowments to fund future grants.

The HFPG was established in 1925 to support Hartford region. The HFPG will celebrate its 100-year anniversary in 2025. The mission of the Community Fund is to support East Windsor needs and encourage inclusive civic engagement. For details, email ewcommunityfund@ gmail.com, or Google “East Windsor Greater Together Community Fund” to find the HFPG website landing page for East Windsor.

www.6bricks.com

Grade 8 High honors Emma Carter, Kassie Keyes, Jalexis Mercado, Francis Scheuermann, Wyat Temple.

Honors Mary Belforti, Thomas Bloznalis, Giuliana Lagana, Kelly Lemus-Herrera, Janiyah Mathews, Kirk Taylor, Anna Whetton.

Victoria Hutchins, Elyse Nordell, Collin Raymond, Isabella Rosales, James Thompson, Natalie VanGasbeck.

Grade 7 High honors Kylie Bartholomew, Benjamin Ferrick, Christopher Godin, Kendall Johns, Emily Kolodziej, Jacob Provost,

Honors Yanndiel Adorno, Nagelys AliceaAlicea, Sophia Alvarado, Jacob Bancroft, Jameson Barber, Mason Burdick, Lillian Burger, Jeremiah

Grade 6 High honors Robert Belforti, Jackson James, Brayden Macsata, Aliyah Mohammed, Sabrina Ortiz, Eloise Rocca, Sienna Rodriguez.

Easter EGGspress now boarding at CT Trolley Museum EAST WINDSOR — Hop on board the Easter EGGspress Trolley.

The Easter Bunny will roaming the grounds of the Connecticut Trolley Museum and posing for pictures from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 23, 24, 29 and 30. Each child will receive an Easter egg with a surprise inside when they com-

6bricks_springfield

LARGEST SELECTION OF: 6 North Central News March 2024

High honors Kendra Bartholomew, Daniel Bober, Ryan Borrelli, Saeed Elmedani, Riley Fox, Victoria Kooharian, William Loos, Harsh Patel, Savannah Perez, Juliette Provost, Samuel Rodriguez, Nathan Roman, Shreenitha Senthilkumar, Sahana Vijayakumar.

Honors Genesis Abudo, Daniel Burnham, Olivia Collins, Augustus Craig, Ephraim Decker, Geneva Forsythe, Jacob Gomez, Austin Hinkle, Caroline Hubbard Ky’mani Morgan, Lane Neidlinger, Jackson Parent, Jeruciel Valentin Lorenzo, Nella Wojcik.

PRE-ROLLS, VAPES, FLOWER, EDIBLES, TINCTURES, TOPICALS, CONCENTRATES, AND MORE!

plete up to five craft activities.

Take a trolley ride operated by period dressed motormen.

Learn historic information about each car you ride and how the museum began. Inside the Visitor Center you will find more static trolley cars and artifacts, a theater showing a kids Easter movie and a gift shop.

6BricksLLC

DELI

413-285-8115

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Fridays 9am-8pm while supplies last.

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.

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:15 PM Page 7

Regional Kissel speaks out on Medicaid cut, ambulances

Women Who Care donate $3,900 to Underground NE The Underground New England (UGNE) was recently the recipient of a donation of $3900 from 100 Women Who Care-North Central Connecticut.

The Underground New England is grassroots, faith-based 501(C3) organization dedicated to ending sex trafficking and sexual exploitation throughout Connecticut and New England. The Underground provides prevention tools and awareness programs to engage and equip the community into action against sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. It also has initiatives that directly support victims and survivors with their recovery.

Rev. Dr. Nadine A. Thomas, executive director, said, “The Underground New England is pleased to receive this grant award and put it towards expanding our services to survivors of human trafficking. Human trafficking is one of the worst evils carried out by humankind against humankind. The mission of The Underground NE is to eradicate this evil from the state of Connecticut, all of New

From left: Amy Hayashida, programs and operations manager UGNE; Caroline Salazar, 100WWC chairperson; Rev. Nadine Thomas, executive director UGNE; and Abby Clark, marketing and communications specialist UGNE. Photo courtesy 100WWC-NCC England, and beyond, and to provide wrap-around services to survivors. The anti-human trafficking movement in the state of Connecticut thrives on collaboration and support from individuals, businesses, and community organizations like 100 Women Who Care. This grant will increase the capacity of The Underground NE to meet survivors' basic needs as they exit from being trafficked and exploited and transition to a life of freedom and independent living.”

HARTFORD – State Sen. John Kissel (R-Enfield) submitted testimony to the General Assembly’s Appropriations Committee to oppose Gov. Ned Lamont’s plan to remove $5 million in funding for Medicaid increases for ambulance services in fiscal year 2025.

“North Central Connecticut will specifically be impacted, including the Town of Somers. ... Somers receives an exceptionally large volume of Department of Corrections calls – all of which fall under Medicaid. Somers EMS must transport the sick and injured Department of Correction prisoners to down-state hospitals,” Kissel said. “Additionally, the removal of this increase will result in the loss of federal matching funds, making the loss total more than $10 million.

The consequences of this will be innumerable.”

87 West Road, Ellington, CT 860-896-3333 (JGU $FSUJGJDBUFT "WBJMBCMF

$IFDL PVU PVS OFX NFOV

HIDDEN STILL BOOZY BRUNCH WWW.THEHIDDENSTILL.COM

March 2024 North Central News

7

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 7:06 PM Page 8

Ellington Board shifts due date for Wall of Honor nominations ELLINGTON — At the Feb. 12 Board of Selectmen meeting, the annual due date to submit nominations for the Ellington Wall of Honor in Arbor Park, was amended to May 1; applications had previously been due on July 1.

This deadline update is an administrative alignment to comply with the scheduling needs of the engraving company that the town uses to add the new inductee to the Wall each year, in time for the annual ceremony held at the site of the Wall of Honor in September, prior to the Fireman’s Fair Parade event.

Applications continue to be kept on file for consideration for a period of three years if not selected the first year of submission.

Information on all previous inductees, dating back to 2001, can be found on the Town of Ellington’s website, under Our Community > Wall of Honor.

A downloadable PDF version of the nomination form, as well as an online application, can be found on this page as well.

For more information, call 860-8703100 or email info@ellington-ct.gov.

Opening day at the Senate Ellington First Selectwoman Lori Spielman, second from left, stands with state Sens.

Jeff Gordon, M Saud Anwar and John Kissel on the first day of the new Senate session.

Photo courtesy First Selectwoman’s office

Selectmen seek charter panel volunteers, make appointments ELLINGTON — The Board of Selectmen is still seeking interested volunteers to serve on the Charter Revision Commission.

Interested individuals may submit a statement of interest on the Town’s website or email info@ellington-ct.gov for more information.

The following appointments were made at the Feb. 12 Board of Selectmen meeting: Zoning Board of Appeals: Appointed Miranda Graziani to complete a term through Dec. 6, 2027.

Board of Finance: Appointed Liz Nord to complete a term through Dec. 1, 2025.

Patriotic Committee: Appointed Robert Poggie to complete a term through Dec. 31, 2024.

Ethics Commission: Appointed Patience Turkson to complete a term through Jan. 31, 2028.

Board of Assessment Appeals: Appointed Suren Thirumappan to complete a term through Jan. 31, 2026; appointed Aston Blake to complete a term through Jan. 31, 2027.

Inland Wetlands Agency: Appointed Landon Barlow to complete a term through Jan. 31, 2027.

Design Review Board: Appointed Landon Barlow to complete a term through June 30, 2024.

Emergency Services Committee: Reappointed Gary Feldman Sr., Jack

Rich II, Robert Edwards, Timothy Seitz, Peter Hany Sr., Bruce Hoffman, and Walter Lee to one-year terms through Feb. 28, 2025.

Permanent Building Committee: Reappointed Gary Magnuson and Dale Gerber to four-year terms through Feb. 29, 2028.

Large Inventory of New & Used Truck Caps, Tonneau Covers, and Trailers

8 North Central News March 2024

WOOD SIGN WORKSHOPS USE COUPON CODE NCN324 TO RECEIVE $10 OFF REGISTRATION Expires March 31st.

Can’t combine coupon codes. Good only for a regular public workshop.

BOARDANDBRUSH.COM/SOMERS

(860) 627-9409 26 North Road, East Windsor, CT 06088 info@killamtruckmart.com

www.killamtruckmart.com

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:15 PM Page 9

Ellington Town’s Earthlight Technologies supports apprenticeship push HARTFORD – State Rep. Tim Ackert (R-Coventry) is calling for an amendment to state apprenticeship hiring ratios in certain construction trades.

Ackert, a licensed electrician for over 30 years, was joined by several skilled labor employers and employees that support changTim Schneider ing hiring ratios in order to reinforce an aging workforce.

Among those backing the effort was Tim Schneider of Earthlight Technologies in Ellington said.

“I began my career milking cows in Ellington before becoming an apprentice in the early 1980s,” Schneider said.

“Today, our company has 25 electricians, with eight apprentices. By amending the law, we could employ another 12 apprentices who are currently unable to make a positive career transition towards a better salary to support their families. We can’t continue to ask for waivers to hire new

apprentices, many of which rarely succeed. We need to change this law now and stand with our youth.”

According to state law, which dates to the late 1960s, the state mandates that each licensed apprenticeship sponsor must abide by a 1:3 apprentice-tolicensed-contractor ratio after hiring their first three apprentices. This means that to hire one new apprentice, each employer must already employ three licensed contractors in that trade. The concern is that this 1:3 ratio limits prospective apprentices from entering the workforce, threatening job growth.

“Hiring ratios, simply put, are hiring restrictions,” Ackert said. As an apprenticeship sponsor for three decades, I know firsthand how this has negatively impacted state job growth and our overall economy. If we want to successfully diversify and modernize our Connecticut workforce, we need to begin by amending these ratios to expand career opportunities for all residents, developing our economy and labor pool.”

Irish to the Last Drop performing in Ellington at The Ivy on March 15 ELLINGTON — Irish to the Last Drop is a local performing group specializing in traditional and popular music from Ireland and America, and includes humorous stories and jokes interspersed with well-known songs, traditional ballads and sing-alongs involving the audience.

The group consists of three singers, Ellen and John O’Shaughnessy and Tom Curtiss of Ellington, and a talented keyboardist, Don Benevides of Vernon, providing a wealth of instrumental

Town conducting online kindergarten registration ELLINGTON — Online registration is now open for all Ellington children entering kindergarten in the 2024-2025 school year.

A child must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1 to be eligible for regular enrollment.

The Ellington School District requires documentation for proof of the student’s age, and their Ellington residency, to complete the registration process.

Parents can navigate to the district website registration page at https://www.ellingtonpublicschools.org/parents/registration or call 860-896-2300.

FREE

Come for your Bra 昀tting, and leave feeling adored!

Professional Bra Fittings!

Shop Our Web Store!

The Bra Ladies put Health, Comfort & Beauty back in your life!

We offer CUSTOM SIZES that provide both STYLE and COMFORT! High-end shapewear, bras & lingerie.

NEW...Julie Vos Jewelry!!!

CosaBella Wacoal Chantelle Elomi Freya Goddess

Appointments Recommended Schedule your appointment online or by phone.

Your privacy is important to us!

413.244.5731

635 Main St., Somers, CT thebraladies.com Book your Bridal Party Fitting or Private Bra Party!

March 2024 North Central News

Anita Enell Sports Bra Panache Natori Hanky Panky Conturelle

accompaniments to back them up.

The group performs at senior centers, senior residence communities and other venues on a year-round basis, but its most sought-after shows are for St. Patrick’s Day and other Irish events; Veterans Day and other patriotic events; and Christmas and other holiday events.

The group will be performing in Ellington at The Ivy on March 15. For details, email irishtothelastdrop53@ gmail.com

9

MARCH1-10.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 6:49 PM Page 10

Ellington State Representative Round-up

Offering some insight on proposed utility rate hike HARTFORD — Constituents have reached out regarding Eversource’s announcement seeking a 19% rate increase.

Some constituents Jaime Foster noted they're on fixed incomes, while others expressed frustration with the ever-rising cost of electricity.

As House vice-chair of the Energy and Technology Committee, I want to hear from you, but I urge you to also submit comments to the Public Utility and Regulatory Commission (PURA).

Written comments can be submitted to PURA.ExecutiveSecretary@ct.gov.

You can use the docket number (if known) or use a subject line like “Eversource Rate Case Comments, Effective 7/1/24.” A PURA YouTube video includes ways to get involved in a rate case (https://bit.ly/49smuBu).

Twice a year, energy utilities seek rate changes from PURA, effective Jan. 1 and July 1. The most recent filing by Eversource is for 19%, equating to

approximately $38 a month on customer bills. Both Eversource and United Illuminating have filed requests — both citing COVID-19 era shut-off protection policies contributed to significant arrearages being accrued. There is the ability to recoup uncovered costs, including the one listed above, as well as Millstone's above-market-rate electricity (Eversource no longer generates power), which allows Eversource to recoup those costs.

Last year, my colleagues and I — unanimously in both chambers — adopted policy that has given PURA more tools to scrutinize rate requests.

We passed SB 7 — a landmark bill that expanded the authority that PURA has to deny rate cases.

We’ve seen PURA’s efficacy in denying rate increases with water companies so far, but the electric distribution companies are next.

SB 7 limits the ability of utility companies to recoup costs from ratepayers such as rate cases, dues and lobbying expenses.

It also gives PURA the ability to call these companies into rate proceedings and

Rep. Jamie Foster at an Energy and Technology Committee meeting in 2023.

Submitted photo

require them to lower rates or defend in front of PURA, and therefore transparently, more often than they historically have.

Some of these utility companies haven’t been before PURA in a very long time, despite rising rates.

While we anticipate enactment of SB 7 will keep costs from going up quite as much as they may have otherwise, some measures are beyond the legislature’s control. Utility companies have the authority to recoup unrecovered costs, such as unpaid energy bills; however, if you believe this is not right, you should testify before PURA. The utility companies will be bringing their staff, allies,

and assets to defend rate increases.

Because of a bill I introduced, that became part of SB 7 and the hard work of my colleagues in leadership, Rep. Steinberg, Sen. Neeleman, Sen. Fazio, and Rep. Buckbee, for the first time, they won't pass those costs onto you.

That’s a start, but we still need you and everyone impacted to testify if we want to make a difference collectively.

Last year, we created a video on energy deregulation. You can watch it on YouTube (https://bit.ly/3I5l0Rl). As always, please contact my office with any concerns you have. I can be reached at 860-240-8585 or jaime.foster@cga.ct.gov

10 North Central News February 2024

Accepting Eyemed, Spectera & Husky

175 West Rd Ellington, CT

Most Insurances Welcome

860-454-4841

30% OFF* Every day as a special thanks for Military and First Responders.

Our store specializes in Range Eyewear

eyeglassplace-ngtn.com Sunday & Monday: Closed Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday: 9am-5pm, Thursday: 9am-6pm, Saturday: 10am-2pm m-7pm, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 9am-5pm,

m-2pm, Wed & Sun: CLOSED

*Some restrictions may apply

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template

2/26/24

8:19 PM

Page 11

Enfield Honor roll ENFIELD — These students were named to the Enfield High School honor roll for the second marking period of the 2023-24 academic year.

GRADE 12 High Honors Autumn Abreu, Rosalie Alfano, Evan Anderson, Leah Anderson, Aliyan Atif, Tatiana Barnes, Gavin Beauregard, Sydney Bechard, Charles Bell, Ayla Bibeault, Mariia Borodii, Mikayla Brink, Mikayla Brown, Mikaela Bryden, Maggie Bryson, Taylin Byers, Antonio Calabrese, Caitlin Campbell, Daniel Cardona, Ian Cargile, Tanner Carlson, Dylan Catania, Kendra Cekala, Hao Chen, Kristy Chen, Bethany Clark, Monroe Cogtella, Erin Connery, Isabella Cooley, Madison Couture, Keonta Crawford, Molly Cunningham, Faith Daigneau, Mia Daly, Matthew Daries, Alexia DiFranco, Evan DiPietro, Erin Dow, Olivia Eugenio, Evan Fitzgerald, Natalie Fitzgerald, Mason Fontaine, Sarah Fortune, Samantha Fuller, Evelyn Furey, Anthony Galvez, Kaylee Garcia, James Gilbert, Madison Gilbert, Julianna Girouard, Jake Giustina, Henley Gomeau, Maysalee GrayKhen, Ryan Grenier, Olivia Grettler, Harley Griffin, Kai Grimaldi, Mackenzie Hannah, Dilana Hathaway, Camila Herrera-Alfaro, Gavin Higgins, Kelsey Higgins, Ella Hogan, Aurora Hunt, Delaney Hutchings, Isabella Jackson, Jonathan Jones, Kyle Josefiak, Zoe

Attendees receive discount on closing fees.

Kinelski, Emily Kokoszka, Elizabeth Kusta, Braylon Lafrance, Abigail Lawlor, Amaya Lewis, Aldo Lima, Brenna Lyver, Aiden Madrigal, Sydney Marshall, Alexis Mastrangelo, Audrey Mazzarella, Kaitlyn McCaffrey, Melissa Medeiros, Elissa Medina, Naomi Mission, William Moody, Evan Murphy, Madison Oakes, Sophia Oppenheimer, Jimmy Padilla, Lukas Phimvongsa, Charles Polmatier, Caroline Poltronieri, Charlotte Poltronieri, Samantha Quail, Lucy Raimo, Conner Ramsdell, E'keria Reed, Nathan Reynolds, Abigail Richters, Sula Roberge, Anthony Rosato, Hiba Sleiman, Sandhya Sowrirajan, Michael Spencer, Kyrah Spruill, Jayla Steere, Kayla Surprenant, Isabella Taylor, Kaleigh

Thornhill, Sophie Trosen, Sophia Verrengia, Sara VonEisengrein, Lucas Wachtel, Cameron Weeks, Cassidy Weeks, Jade West, Kayla Wetherington, Lana Wilkie, Kelsey Wyse, Lily Wyse, Safayah Youssef.

Honors Samantha Acus, Mattingly Alaimo, Kayla Alexander, Brennan Archer, Ethan Bartholomew, Adrian Blach, Morgan Blais, Zachary Bonini, Lindsey Bronczyk, Mason Bronczyk, Mackenzie Brown, Sarah Budaj, Michael Calabrese, Wyatt Camp, Andrew Cekala, Keily Colon, Samantha Coolbaugh, Matthew Dube, Evan Dumeny, Jameson

C A T t “ N P

Flynn, Taylor Gochee, Jessica Guzman, Tyler Herzig, Brady Higginbotham, Luke Hogan, Dillon Hudson, Lillian Jaeger, Tyler Kimball, Tyler Laureano, Landon Lech, Edilzar Lopez-Lopez, Marcell Madrazo, Adrianna Marshall, Hunter Merrill, Ryan Moeller, Warren Mollitor, Kaytlin Morin, Zniya Munoz, Shaelyn O'Farrell, Viktoria Olsen, Isabella Parisan, Tanner Pinto-Cohn, Eric Quinn, Davon Randolph, Emily Rivera, Ariana Rodgers, Jasmine Rosario, Katie Sanchez-Gonzalez, Kyana Schwab, Quincy Slappy, Lila Smyth, Chase Stebbins, Ari Swanger, Colin Tavernier, Morgan Tilley, Aiden Ulrich, Logan Vidal, Anna Wilcox.

I

HONORS/Page 24

Rotary Club in action The Rotary Club of Enfield welcomed Lorraine Creedon from the Enfield Safe Harbor Warming Center to a meeting. The club, its members, new member Bob Stern donating funds designated to him for a new member project, and member Milt Rosenberg matching his challenge amount of $500, contributed $1,538 to the center along with paper goods. Want to help your community? Come to the club’s next meeting March 6 at 12:15 p.m. in CT State-Asnuntuck’s Conference Center.

First-Time Homebuyer?

Or Buying A Home?

Need Answers?

We can help guide you and connect you to legal, insurance, and realtor experts at our FREE educational seminar. Get the answers before you begin looking to buy a home. Programs for all homebuyers! Sign up today at www.arrhacu.com or in branch.

Sign Up (online or in branch)

860.698.0969 ~ www.arrhacu.com ~ 413.732.9812

11

231 Hazard Avenue, Enfield, CT | 145 Industry Avenue, Springfield | 63 Park Avenue, West Springfield

March 2024 North Central News

March 27 5:30 p.m.

Enfield Branch

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 4:21 PM Page 12

North Central News’

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

CRUMBLING FOUNDATIONS

Serving the community for 10 years working with the crumbling foundation issue.

Best Foundation Crack Solution

• Lift Method • Non-lift Method • Whether it’s a昀ecting the whole house or just a part of the house.

860-810-8355 3c Courtney Dr., Ellington CT 06029

delhomeimprovement.com

Registered crocg vendor

In this difficult market, experience counts!

If you are looking to Voted #1 with North buy or sell, Central News Readers I am here to help.

Kathy Geryk Coldwell Banker Realtor (860) 573-4850 kathygeryk@gmail.com

Steve Geryk Mortgage Loan Officer (860) 729-7123 stevegeryk@gmail.com NMLS ID# 91523/56292

12 North Central News March 2024

Thank You North Central News Readers For Voting Us Best Electrician

D’Amico ELECTRIC

, INC.

COMPLETE LINE OF ELECTRICAL WIRING FOR GENERATORS, SERVICE CHANGES, WATER HEATERS, WELL PUMPS, WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM AND NEW AND RENOVATED CONSTRUCTION. RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

EST .1974 E1-102883

860-684-5602

www.damicoelectricinc.com

Al D’Amico Stafford Springs, CT

(203) 902-0441

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template

2/26/24

8:19 PM

North Central News’

Page 13

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE BEFORE

Roof Cleaning Get your roof looking new again!

AFTER

Main Culprit is Algae Most prevalent on north facing roofs Dormant in winter Moisture and warmth stimulate growth

Left Alone Streaking and staining will spread Will not go away on its own

Roof Cleaning BEFORE

Visit us at toddgaskell.com & see what we’ve been up to

No power wash equipment used “This is not an expensive job!”

About the cost of a lawn treatment program

Get a Free Estimate!

• Kitchens & Baths • Additions • Doors & Windows • Decks • Tubular Skylights • Solar Attic Fans • Basement Finishing • Aluminum Railings • Plans Drafting

(860) 749-9536 Somers, CT

860-680-2008 Ellington, CT 06029 www.paulsroofcleaning.com

AFTER

HIC 0621648

Fine Landscapes & Irrigation

860.749.2100 • FranksLandscapeDesign.com

Book Your 2024 Project Now!

T-SQUARE BUILDERS,

LLC

Residential Building, Remodeling and Excavation www.tsquarebuildersllc.com

Thank you for choosing T Square as Best Contractor

in the The North Central News Reader’s Poll.

13

• Garages • Additions • Kitchens

March 2024 North Central News

• New Homes • Decks • Excavation

CT Lic. #561320 • CT Reg. #00778

Poolscapes • Patios • Walkways • Irrigation Water & Fire Features • Outdoor Sound Systems Outdoor Kitchens • Landscape Lighting

330 South Road, Somers, CT

(860) 763-5633 References Provided • Fully Insured

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:15 PM Page 14

North Central News’

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

860-803-3525

TREE REMOVAL: SMALL TO LARGE  HAZARDOUS TREE REMOVAL  EMERGENCY STORM DAMAGE RESPONSE  AERIAL LIFT  TREE CLIMBING  CRANE WORK  STUMP GRINDING & EXCAVATION  BRUSH CLEARING  YARD EXPANSIONS AND MUCH MORE …

RANDRLANDSCAPINGSERVICES.NET FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SERVING CONNECTICUT FOR OVER 25 YEARS! 

FREE ESTIMATES! LICENSED AND INSURED

14 North Central News March 2024

Screened Topsoil Unscreened Topsoil Manure Compost Screened Fill Crushed Stone Landscaping Stone Process Gravel & Mulch Pickup and delivery by appointment Monday - Saturday Closed Sundays Rates subject to change without notice. Offer only available on Primary Residence. APR fixed for the life of the loan.

Located at 103 Sadds Mill Rd, Ellington, CT

Call 860-729-4657

www.doublemyardsupplyllc.com

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template

2/26/24

8:19 PM

North Central News’

Page 15

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

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.

From small construction jobs to commercial projects, nothing is too large or small. Our knowledgeable staff will be please to assist you with any questions regarding products, delivery and pricing.

Offering High Quality: • CRUSHED AGGREGATE • STONE, PROCESSED GRAVEL • TOPSOIL • FLAGGING AND WALLSTONE • And most importantly EXPERTISE & SERVICE

STAFFORD SAND AND GRAVEL, LLC, 156 COOPER LANE, STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT, 06076, UNITED STATES (860) 684-2789 | STAFFORDSANDANDGRAVELLLC@GMAIL.COM | www.staffordsandandgravel.com

NOW is the time to schedule your new project!

March 2024 North Central News

W ith this coupon.Expires 4/30/24

15

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 4:22 PM Page 16

North Central News’

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

Crumbling foundations 860-930-2049

email: jackieshomes@sbcglobal.net www.jackieshomes.net• instagram: jackies_homes Qualified contractor with CFSIC & vendor with CRCOG Fully bonded and CT licensed and insured.

Owner operated and serving the community for over 40 years in the construction industry.

Options; traditional lift or in-place remediation

SATURDAY, APRIL 6 - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

16 North Central News March 2024

SUNDAY, APRIL 7 - 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A Po r t i o n o f P r o c e e d s G o e s To B r e a s t C a n c e r A w a r e n e s s

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template

2/26/24

8:19 PM

North Central News’

Page 17

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

PIONEER BUILDERS OF ELLINGTON, INC. 65 Middle Road, Ellington, CT Tom Savage • tom@pioneer88.com Cell (860)798-4855 • Of昀ce (860)871-6835

Replacement Services for property owners with a crumbling concrete foundation

Quali昀ed vendor with Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company Construction Laborer for site work & general construction.

Transportation required & some experience preferred.

Call Tom Savage (860)798-4855 Fully bonded and insured • Member of BBB since 2002

March 2024 North Central News

Best HVAC

17

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template

2/26/24

8:19 PM

Page 18

TJR is a certified Kleen Gutter Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard.

Kleen Gutter is made with 100% metal and the covers sit flat on your gutter. They won’t warp, buckle or break and are made to last.

Call Us Today For Your FREE APPRAISAL!

1-800-766-3514

18 North Central News March 2024

143 Tunnel Road Vernon , CT 06066 tjr-construction.com

The Gutter draws in the water but keeps out all debris. Kleen Gutter is installed to match the angle We offer: • Gutter Installations of the roof so leaves and debris blow to the ground and Cleaning • FREE Roof inspections with the wind.

TJR Construction, LLC has been in business for over 21years.

We are on-call 24/7 for any emergency services.

• Free adjuster meeting services • Emergency Repairs • Roof Replacements • Siding Replacement

HIC License #: CT 0634452 MA 180385 PA 095796

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:29 PM Page 19

North Central News’

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

413-221-6603

860-803-3525

TREE REMOVAL: SMALL TO LARGE  HAZARDOUS TREE REMOVAL  EMERGENCY STORM DAMAGE RESPONSE  AERIAL LIFT  TREE CLIMBING  CRANE WORK  STUMP GRINDING & EXCAVATION  BRUSH CLEARING  YARD EXPANSIONS AND MUCH MORE …

RANDRLANDSCAPINGSERVICES.NET FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SERVING CONNECTICUT FOR OVER 25 YEARS! 

March 2024 North Central News

19

FREE ESTIMATES! LICENSED AND INSURED

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 4:41 PM Page 20

North Central News’

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

20 North Central News March 2024

Crumbling Foundation Replacement

CFSIC Approved Contractor CT HIC 0659051

860-559-5115

“Don’t trust your one and only home to a big box builder who has several teams doing dozens of homes at the same time. We will give you the personal attention to the smallest detail of your project from start to finish with the same team of trusted employees and subcontractors for every job we complete. Call us today for your free, no obligation quote!”

www.foundationsolutionsofne.com foundationsolutionsofthe@gmail.com

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 4:41 PM Page 21

North Central News’

HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE

It’s Spring at

Residential Commercial • Industrial

INC.

PAVING Over 30 Years in the Paving Business

Call today for a free estimate • Big Driveway Paving • Replace Old Driveways • Resurface Driveways • Bobcat • Excavating

• New Driveways Graded & Paved • New Parking Lots • Resurface Parking Lots • Stone & Grade

860-896-0401 • 860-289-3876

www.APAVING.com Department of Consumer Protection HIC.0539395 Tree and stump removal specialist

Have you cleaned your 860-336-9077 www.EliteTreeLLC.com Matt Thibodeau owner elitetreellc@gmail.com

• Emergency storm removal and clean up

• Fully licensed and insured

• Low impact on lawns

• Custom rough cut lumber and bar tops

• Firewood split or log length

Air Ducts?

• Senior and Military discounts

South Windsor • 860-289-5100

CLEANMYDUC TS.COM

21

Mention this ad when you call for your free estimate and receive a 10% discount.

March 2024 North Central News

Family Owned and Operated

MARCH11-22HOME.qxp_NCN new template

2/26/24

8:19 PM

Page 22

Ameriprise Financial 165 Tolland Stage Road Tolland, CT 06084 860-430-1919

Contact: Matthew C Couzens COUZENS, DOMINGOS, ALLEN & ASSOCIATES Ameriprise Financial

News Release COUZENS, DOMINGOS, ALLEN & ASSOCIATES Recognized as a Best-in-State Wealth Management Team by Forbes Tolland, CT –January 2024 – COUZENS, DOMINGOS, ALLEN & ASSOCIATES, a private wealth advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial in Tolland was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” published by Forbes. The list recognizes financial advisors and their teams who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

The rankings are based on data provided by thousands of the nation’s most productive advisors and their teams.

COUZENS, DOMINGOS, ALLEN & ASSOCIATES was chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record and best practices in their practice and approach to working with clients.

COUZENS, DOMINGOS, ALLEN & ASSOCIATES is led by Matthew Couzens, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPCTM, APMA® The team also includes financial advisor(s) Michael Domingos, Sean Allen, Keith Albert, Steven Hahn, Khuong Ho, Timothy Brunson and support staff, Amy Rua and Kansas Sienna. They have collectively served the Tolland community since 2002.

COUZENS, DOMINGOS, ALLEN & ASSOCIATES provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and provided in one-on-one relationships with their clients. For more information, please contact the office at 860.430.1919 or visit the Ameriprise office at 165 Tolland Stage Rd, Tolland CT.

About Ameriprise Financial At Ameriprise Financial, we have been helping people feel more confident about their financial future for 130 years1. With extensive investment advice, asset management and insurance capabilities and a nationwide network of approximately 10,000 financial advisors, we have the strength and expertise to serve the full range of individual and institutional investors’ financial needs. For more information, visit ameriprise.com.

1Company founded June 29, 1894.

Source: Forbes, “Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams,” Jan. 9, 2024.

The 2024 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list is developed by SHOOK Research and is created using an algorithm that includes both qualitative (in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings; client impact; industry experience; review of best practices and compliance records; and firm nominations) and quantitative (assets under management and revenue generated for their firms) data. Certain awards include a demographic component to qualify. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. This ranking is based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC, is not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience and is based on data from the previous calendar year. Forbes magazine and SHOOK Research do not receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information: www.

SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2024 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

*Advertisem ent

22 North Central News March 2024

Visit forbes.com for additional information about Forbes.

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 23

Enfield For details contact Pastor Lisa at 413-344-7367 or email to pastorlisamc64@gmail.com

Music and dance There will be an evening of music and dancing on Friday, March 8, at the Zone, Hazardville United Methodist Church. 330 Hazard Ave, Enfield.

The band Side-Tracked will perform from from 8 to 10 p.m.

For details contact Pastor Lisa at 413-344-7367 or email to pastorlisamc64@gmail.com Comedy night A night of comedy will take placeat Hazardville United Methodist Church, 330 Hazard Ave, Enfield, on Saturday, March 16, as local comedians will entertain with family friends skits.

Doors open at 6 p.m.; the show starts at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.funny4funds.com/events.

Music scholarship The Woman’s Club of Enfield is offering a scholarship to seniors who plan to further their education in music.

Applications are available in the Enfield High School guidance office.

The scholarship is awarded to seniors who will continue in instrumental, voice, education or the technical field.

Previous recipients may reapply.

Applications must be returned to the guidance office by April 19. For details, call Florence at 860-745-5869.

Scholarship opportunities The Woman’s Club of Enfield is offering a scholarship to a graduating senior girl from Enfield High School. To qualify for this scholarship a girl must have attended Enfield High School for her entire senior year, be officially designated by the EHS Guidance Department at end of senior year fall semester) as graduating with honors (cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher,

Are you ready for: • Same or next day appointments • Cutting-edge preventive health screenings

Try the MDVIP Way Don’t wait until it’s too late! *** Yearly wellness testing fee - HSA/FSA eligible ***

Asnuntuck offering Are you looking for a career in health care? CT State Asnuntuck will be offering an ophthalmic assistant program this spring at its Enfield campus.

This program prepares students to enter the ophthalmic medical personnel field as ophthalmic assistants.

Ophthalmic assistants perform duties as assigned by the ophthalmologist for whom they work. All aspects of the role will be covered in a classroom setting and clinical/ hands-on sessions.

Upon earning the college certificate, students must complete 1,000 hours of

paid work experience under ophthalmologic supervision to be eligible for the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology Certification.

Lectures will be held on campus. The clinical/hands-on experience will be at a local eyecare center. Students must provide their own transportation. Classes will be March 12 to May 14 from 6 to 8:30 p.m., with the first class meeting until 9 p.m. Clinic dates are April 6, 13, 20, 27 and May 4 and 11 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.. with a half hour lunch.

Fourteen different noncredit career programs, including ophthalmic assistant, are available at Asnuntuck, with a potential for SNAP scholarships. They include medical billing and coding (CPC-certified professional coder); certified pharmacy technician; certified patient care technician; emergency medical technician; electrocardiogram technician; dental assistant; sterile processing technician; veterinary assistant; esthetician; nail technician; personal trainer; cosmetology and medical interpreter programs.

For details, email ASContinuingEd@asnuntuck.edu or call 860-253-3028.

Early Cancer Detection Saves Lives

BY THE NUMBERS: • 13x higher risk of cancer in adults over age 50 • 70% of cancer deaths are caused by cancers without recommended screenings • 5 current recommended screening tests ONLY (Colon, Breast, Lung, Cervical, Prostate) • 50+ cancers can be detected with a single blood test • 2022 Time magazine invention of the year • 2.5 years in-office testing experience and current national speaker/educator

Timothy Fignar, MD 15 Palomba Drive, Suite 5, Enfield, CT (we accept most insurance)

(Multi-cancer early detection)

Contact us at: 860-745-0030 www.fignarfp.com

Medical Weight Loss Board Certified Physician

March 2024 North Central News

• Deeply meaningful doctorpatient relationship

and be accepted at a two- or four- year college.

Also being offered is the Marion Ferguson Memorial Scholarship, for which the qualifications are the same .

The Phyllis Berger Memorial Scholarship is being offered with the same qualifications, as well as the Janet D’Aleo Scholarship.

Scholarship applications may be obtained from the guidance office at Enfield High School and must be returned to that office by April 17.

23

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 24

Enfield Honor roll

Mayor’s Corner

Teaming up to deal with issues facing the region ENFIELD — This past month, I decided to call on local Municipal leaders in our North Central Region to meet and discuss some issues each of our Towns are facing.

Enfield hosted First Selectmen and Mayors from East Windsor, Ken Nelson Windsor Locks, Suffield, Somers, East Longmeadow and Longmeadow, Mass.

Our “Round Table” discussion included unfunded state mandates, local planning oversite vs. state control, Rails to Trails, solar farms and mutual aid.

It was refreshing to have these discussions with other local representation and brainstorm how we, as a region, can band together with our state representation to focus on our unique issues with the state.

Solar farms are a very hot topic in the North Central CT region and our towns are shouldering a very large portion of them, with much outcry from our residents.

Municipal planning departments do not currently have control over where the state chooses to put these fields which is putting a large burden on many residents.

Truthfully, the term solar field itself is a misconception and, let’s face it, they are more equivalent to industrial power denerating facilities — many of which are now located in residents’ backyards.

There must be a balance with the towns and the state to find the appropriate placement of these “fields” so our towns’ residents aren’t the ones to suffer.

Enfield High honor roll, continuing from page 11.

GRADE 11

Martinez-Estrada, Ruby Mattoon, Lauren McDonnell, Brock Mejia, Evelina Olsen, Logan Pelkey, Thang Pham, Savannah Riley, Isaiah Rodrigues, Jade Ruiz, Parker Salvas, Rylee Shaughnessy, Conlan Shaw, Sophia Sowinski, Miles Stovall, Jayden Troxler, Trinity Ukers, Josiah Upson, Aubree Usher, Sarah Younes.

High Honors

GRADE 10

Isabella Alvarado, Kiersten Anadore, Ryan Andersen, Ryan Anderson, Jonathan Araujo, Madilyn Archer, Luca Bacile, Jacob Barnes, Hailey Barrett, Jacob Beiler, Ava Belanger, Alyssa Bell, Rebecca Bemiss, William Bergman, Darius Berry, Emma Boisvere, Hailey Boney, Lyndsie Brown, Alexa-Lyn Bubello, Ryan Buckley, Abby Carllo, Bryant Cecire, Riche Chen, Mattea Cosby, Mendoza Cruz, Violette Delaware, Zachary DeWitt, Kathia Diaz, Isabella Dinnald, Christopher Donahue, Colin Drury, Natalie Dumas, Brayden Eckert, Gabriella Eckert, Rawan Farah, Madison Flora, Halle Fontaine, Rym Fridjat, Selma Fridjat, Finley Gannon, Grace Garro, Madelyn Garthwait, Caleigh Guyer, Arianna Hicks, Alyssa Hosig, Jana Ibrahim, Cole Isaacson, Derek Judd, Kaitlyn Kamay, Kyle Kamay, Haleigh Ketchale, Aiden Koczera, Aubrey Lathrop, Reese Lavoie, Dream Lawson, Alicia Lizotte, Keara Marinak, Drew Matthews, Zachary Maynard, Jaelah Michaud, Ryan Nash, Luke Pacholski, Aurianna Palmer, Nicholina Parolo, Ishan Patel, Ailey Pequita, Skylar Potemski, Brielle Powers, Trinity Ramirez, Rocha Ramos, Aayan Rauf, Alex Rubin, Brooke Ryan, Hanna Ryan, Angelina Shi, Ethan Sirard, Colin Sixt, Jenna Slater, Janel Smith, Jessica Smith, Lillian Sobanski, Madelyn Stoddard, Brianna Tracy, Anshkumar Vachhani, Joshua Young, Kallianna Zaugg.

High Honors Kayla Arroyo, Faith Bakowski, Emma Beckstead, Emily Birdsey, Rylee Bleau, Zane Boudreau, Ares Bourque, Joseph Capasso, Anthony Carabantes, Dayami Castelan, Alexander Champlin, Makayla Ciechowski, Cameron Colman, Audrey Densmore, Brielle Dols, Kyle Dube, Olivia Egan, Luana Esaki, Ahmed Failla, Hailey Fausel, Sabrina Ferrando, Lena Furey, Emma Gaucher, Gianna Genereux, Payton Gowen, Emily Grenier, Maria Griffin, Ella Gugliotti, Dylan Hart, Adam Hasson, Grace Herman, Riley Holleran, Munib Husain, Bridget Kelly, Elizabeth Langan, Colleen Lassoff, Cooper Love, Anthony Mammano, Cole Marrella, Preston Maryanski, Alabama Mattoon, Julia Mauri, Sofia Mauri, Gavin McGlynn, Sadie Minalga, Kennedy Moore, Amar Muminovic, Olivia Nuccio, Leeanni Oakes, Owen O'Neill, Willow Pham, Cayden Pham-Taber, Kylie Purdue, Hayden Radziewicz, Salma Ramos, Ricardo Recinos-Martinez, Sydney Richard, Lindsey Rowe, Milaniya Santaniello, Cameron Sordi, Ma'Kaylah Spivery, Arianna Striniste, Ava Suazo, Justin Therian, Alexander Turner, Aydan Valentin, Camden Valley, Ramos Vazquez, Ryan Vesce, Natalie Walett, Amare Williams, Shouakang Xiong, Menna Zuwail.

Honors

HONORS/Page 25 Alexandra Barry, Kayla Bouchard, Valentin Bulbuc, Sophia Carrier, Martinez Cervantes, Brenna Chiapponi, Joshua Classon, Zoey DeSousa, Caleb Dickson, Simon Dufault, Samantha Ferrando, Elizabeth Flanagan, Quinn Foster, Nathan Fournier, Grace Gorman, Emma Grant, Samantha Green, Charles Guilmette, Benjamin GuindonBourget, Andrew Guzie, Jack Harmon, Brian Horton, Isabella Huffman, Joshua Lajoie, Jason Mahon, Jaci

northcentralnews@aol.com

New England Landscaping

Order oil online

Save additional 2¢ per gallon

- SPECIALIZING IN -

24 North Central News March 2024

LANDSCAPE SERVICES • Complete Spring & Fall Clean Ups • Thatching • Lawn Cutting • Edging & Weeding • Pruning of Shrubs • Specializing in Overseeding/Slitseeding

LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION

troianooil.com

Call now to book your Spring Furnace/Boiler cleaning.

• Bobcat Work

Home Heating Oil

• New Lawn/Sod • Brush/Shrub Removal • Foundation Plantings/Design • Mulch/Rock Beds • Brick & Patio Walkways

Call Now for Mobile 860-752 9158 Free Estimates 860-627-6466

T

Celebrating 90 Years Serving the Community Serving the Community 860.745.0321

TROIANO OIL COMPANY

troianooil.com 860.745.0321

Family Owned & Operated

Since 1934

HOD #115 • P1#202118 • S1 #302317

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 4:56 PM Page 25

Enfield Honor roll Enfield High honor roll, continuing from page 24.

Grade 10 Honors Aquije Aranda, Jacob Bellafronte, Andy Benevides, Claire Bouffard, Paige Cekala, Kiley Cushing, Zackery Davey, Chloe Donihee, Abygayle-Lynn Gilbert, Amelya Gonzalez, Aaliyah Greaves, Elizabeth Hannah, Jonathan Hewitt, Adrian Johnson, Maya McCormick, Timothy Mele, Alexia Minier, Jacob Morano, Jayden Ortiz, Caitlin Ouellette, Kaylin Perkins, Divinity Petrak, Darya Pitsurenko, Lauren Ryder, Gavin Sampson, Samantha Smyth, Quinn Stefanowich, Keira Surprenant, Abigail Terhune, Brian Thompson, Jason Valintakonis, Wendy Wood, Lexia Xiong.

GRADE 9 High Honors Isabella Alicea, Emmalyn Alli, Hailey Anderson, Lily Baisley, Joshua Barber,

Daniil Borodii, Ava Bowman, Julian Brinson, Marley Brunette, Braden Cekala, Gwyneth Cekala, Sadie Chabot, Audrey Chenail, Benjamin Cherenov, Hailey Cipressi, Magdalena Conderino, Mani'yah Cook, Julianna Cooley, Adam Culver, Julia Davidson, Ava DiCola, Jack Dufresne, Emily Enright, Kylie Feliciano, Renee Foisy, Rozalyn Fort, Kayden Gayac, Joel Gibson, Natividad Gonzalez, Shianne Griffin, Aubrey Griskus, Nayeli Guerra, Madelyn Guyer, Ellen Hamilton, Samantha Hart, Hailey Heath, Arabella Herron, Elizabeth Hopman, Olivia Hosig, Conor Howarth, Kellan Jaykus, Ashley Jerome, Michael Kates, Ella Kornick, Patrick Lachut, Carter Lavoie, Mykah Leander, Avery Leloup, Lauryn Levasseur, Anna Lor, Julia Mangino, Dean Marinak, Johnny Martinez-Estrada, Julia McCloud, John Melendez, Chase Menard, Zoe Mollitor, Kayla Moore, Zarate Moreno, Dorothyea Murray, William Norris, David Ortiz, Grace Pacholski, Sebastian Paez, Alexander Paradis, Sofia Parolo, Stella Postle, Valenzuela Ramirez, Joseph Ramus, Ela Roberge, Roxanna Rodrigues, Camryn Rousseau, Taylor Rousseau, Natalie Sampson, Rosie Scavotto, Cierra Seamster, Muhammad Shahid, Alana Shamlall, Konnor Shenas, Noah Sierra,

Caleb Slappy, Aaron Smith, Alton Smith, Ayanna Smythe, Sincere Spears, James St., Addison Szczesiul, Braeden Szczesiul, St.Onge Tross-, Alexander Turcotte, Ramos Vazquez, Kizmet Vazquez, Amariliz Velez, Evan Vujs, Jayson Wachtel, Alexandrea Walpurgis, Laila Williams, Sophia Wong, Zakaria Youssef.

Honors Kendall Acus, Nicholas Allan, Gabriella Bassignani, Samantha Bezdelovs, Tyler Birch, Ray Calvin, Alexandra Ciecko, Reese Coffey, Madeline Croyle, Alexander Davis, Hamdi Ibrahim, Mialana Jubrey, Landon Kulas, Mariah Lamere, Kaitlyn LaPenna, Kelsey Lawlor, Isaiah Lawrence, Emily Lyver, Grant Lyver, Kyle Malecki, Ethan May, Paige McGuire, Sophia Miller, Damien Norman, Allyson Paz, Sawyer Pequita, Logan Perry, Isabella Petrone, Derek Pivero, Flores Portillo, Julia Prendergast, Luna Ramirez, Nevaeh Ramos, Thomas Rattell, Kamani Robinson, Jayleen Rodriguez, Emma Rogers, Moreno Rosas, Abby Semancik, Dawa Sherpa, Trevor Sixt, Hernandez Soto, Steven Stauffer, Charlotte Stephens, Anaiyah Sullivan, Anthony Tallarita, Brady Tavernier, Jack Treon, Alaina Weston, Nilay Williams.

Drezek has been supt. since 2017 (continued from page 1) After a brief period working for the Wethersfield Board of Education, Drezek returned to Enfield in 2010 to as the district’s director of human resources.

“Enfield is an amazing community and this certainly wasn’t an easy decision but it was the best one for me and my family,” he told the North Central News. “I’ve made lifelong friendships in Enfield that will last beyond my tenure, but my family and I couldn’t be more excited to start this new chapter in Old Saybrook. The students, staff and families of Enfield have welcomed me like family, and I hope I’m leaving the district just a little bit better for our students than when I got here.”

Drezek earned a Sixth Year in Educational Leadership from Central Connecticut State University, Master’s of Education from the University of Bridgeport and a Bachelor of Science degree from Post University.

He is a lifelong resident of Connecticut as is his wife Alisa. They have two children.

JEFFREY P. THOMPSEN, M.D. SHAWN BRADY, PA-C • LALIDA LONG, APRN

860.253.9950

SPECIALIZING IN:

Cardiovascular Service

• Preventive Cardiology • General Cardiology

• Family History of Heart Disease

STAFFORD SPRINGS – 7 Magauran Drive, Suite 1 & 2

25

ENFIELD – 15 Palomba Drive

• Heart Disease In Women

March 2024 North Central News

Dr. Jeffrey Thompsen, MD, Cardiologist was voted the Best Specialty Practice for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and Hall of Fame 2023!

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 26

hannoushjewelersct.com

R U T

L O D G I R N U T O O Y CA N

$H!

26 North Central News March 2024

WE BUY GOLD Present this Coupon for

10% more on your unnwanted gold.

Offer expires / /24.

ENFIELD

SOUTH WINDSOR

118 Elm Street, Enfield, CT 06082 860-741-8112

340 Buckland Road, South Windsor, CT 06074 860-648-1903

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 4:58 PM Page 27

Somers

Big moves for residents at Big Y

Nathan Settevendemie, right, winner of last year’s Connecticut Spelling Bee. Photo courtesy Connecticut Spelling Bee

Somers student hopes for chance to spell repeat WEST HARTFORD — The Connecticut Spelling Bee will return to West Hartford on March 3, with participants competing for the chance to represent the state at the 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Last year’s Connecticut winner, sixth grader Nathan Settevendemie from Somers’ Mabelle B. Avery Middle School, made it to Round 5 in the national competition, tying for 57th place.

The winner of this year’s seventh annual Connecticut Spelling Bee will represent the state at the Scripps National Spelling Bee May 26 through May 31 in Port Washington, Maryland.

The Connecticut Spelling Bee begins at 1 p.m. on March 3 at Hoffman Auditorium at the University of Saint Joseph. Students who have made it to The Connecticut Spelling Bee have already won their school- or townwide spelling bees.

For details about the spelling bee, call Alex Gerrish at 860-502-3247 or email events@noahwebsterhouse.org.

SPRINGFIELD — The Board of Directors of Big Y Foods, Inc. has announced six new appointments to executive and director positions.

Among those named are Somers residents John P. Fraro, senior director of fresh foods, and Iliana Del Valle-Colon, director of deli, bakery and kitchen.

Fraro will be responsible for all aspects of Big Y’s fresh departments including meat, seafood, bakery, deli, kitchen, produce and floral. He reports to Michael R. Cormier, senior vice president of sales and marketing.

Fraro started at Big Y in 2005 as assistant food service/kitchen manager after having held positions in meat, bakery and deli for two other retailers the prior five years. In 2006, he was appointed sous chef at Big Y’s Fresh Acres Market and in 2008 as its meal solutions manager. In 2009, he became the company’s junior deli buyer followed by bakery sales manager. From 2014-17, he was deli sales manager, then produce sales manager until his 2017 appointment as director of deli, bakery and kitchen.

In 2017, Fraro was recognized as one of the 40 Under 40 Food Industry Rising Leaders by the Griffin Report of the Northeast and in 2020, he was a Shelby Report’s People to Watch. He completed the National Grocer’s Association Executive Development Program. Last year he received the 2023 Emerging Leader Award by the Massachusetts Food Association. He and his partner, Michael, live in Somers.

Del Valle-Colon will be responsible for all sales, marketing and merchandising for deli, bakery and kitchen. She began her retail career as a greeter at

John P. Fraro Iliana Del Valle-Colon New York & Co in 1999 until she joined Stop & Shop in 2002. There, she worked in various capacities including customer service manager/assistant manager, perishable and non-perishable managers, division sales analyst, center store and general merchandise specialist and store manager.

She joined Big Y in 2017 as a reserve store director followed by corporate deli sales manager and later corporate seafood sales manager. She will report to Fraro in his new position.

Del Valle-Colon has attended the University of Connecticut and the New York School of Interior Design. In 2019, she earned a Food Executive Program Certificate from Cornell

Thank you to all our loyal customers for choosing us for your pizza needs and voting us Best Pizza again, and putting us in

535 Hazard Ave. (Rt. 190 Enfield) • dannyspizzaenfield.com

Seafood Friday’s!

LENTEN SPECIALS

With this Money Saving Coupon. With this Money Saving Coupon..

May NOT be combined with May NOT be combined with any other offers. Exp. 3/31/2024. any other offers. Exp. 3/31/2024.

NOW 3 CRUSTS AVAILABLE: REGULAR, NEW YORK THIN OR GLUTEN FREE!

27

860-763-1000 www.somersveterinaryhospital.com

Thursday, Friday, Saturday • Fish & Chips • Baked Cod • Fisherman’s Platter • Seafood Chowder • Fried Scallops & much more!!

March 2024 North Central News

Served Monday 3/13 - Saturday 3/17 Served with homemade Irish Soda Bread.

Loaves of Irish Soda Bread available for sale.

63 South Road (Route 83) Somers, CT 06071

We Only Use Trans Fat FREE Oil In Our Fryer

Every Friday is Fish & Chips. Fresh Cod, French Fries & Cole Slaw.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Healthcare for Your Pet Through all Stages of Life

University and in 2021 received a Future Leaders Certificate from the Food Marketing Institute. In 2014, she was awarded Stop & Shop’s Assistant Store Manager of the year and from 2016-17 was a member of its Women Adding Value team. She has been a member of Women L.E.A.D, Big Y’s employee resource group focused on empowering women leaders for personal and professional development.

She was named a Progressive Grocer Top Women in Grocery in 2015. She and her husband, Michael Colon, Sr., reside in Somers.

Other new appointments are: Devyn Blais, Ludlow, Mass., vice president of finance; David J. Argento, Guilford, director of pharmacy; James T. Billingsley of Wilbraham, Mass., director of accounting; and Amanda M. Pereira, East Longmeadow, director of treasury.

Michael P. D’Amour, Big Y president and CEO, said, “It’s always gratifying to see dedicated and talented individuals grow within our company.”

LARGE PIZZA 3 OFF $300 OFF LARGEOPIZZA ly n Only Any Large or Any Large or $ 95 $ 95 26 26 Extra Large Pizza Extra Large Pizza

$ 00

With this Money Saving Coupon.

May NOT be combined with any other offers. Exp. 3/31/2024.

With Any 3 Items, Large Tossed Salad & 2 Liters of Pepsi

With this Money Saving Coupon.

May NOT be combined with any other offers. Exp. 3/31/2024.

With Any 3 Items, Large Tossed Salad & 2 Liters of Pepsi

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 28

Somers

Blake Center announces event schedule for 2024

Business of the Month The Economic Development Commission of Somers has presented its fourth “Business of the Month” award to Sue’s Shirt Creations at 629 Main St.. The award was presented at the store by Selectman Robert Schmidt to store owner’Michelle Wink, her husband Chad, and her son Joseph. Sue’s Shirt Creations was nominated by town resident Robert Hall in recognition of the business participation in town projects, and its creation of “Somers Strong” shirts in support of the Somersville fire victims. Patrons from any community can nominate a Somers business through the email at EDCSomers@gmail.com or regular mail at EDC, 600 Main St., Somers, CT 06071.

Photo courtesy Somers Board of Selectmen

NOW OPEN Dine In, Takeout, Delivery

HILLSDALE, Mich. — The Blake Center for Faith and Freedom, located in Somers, is set to host numerous events this year. These events aim to further the mission of Hillsdale College and focus on Christianity, the Western tradition of liberty, and their intersection.

Upcoming events include: • March 8: K-12 Education & American Civic Virtues, featuring Dr. Wilfred McClay, author of celebrated American history textbook “Land of Hope” • March 25: C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia,” featuring Dr.

Michael Ward, author of “The Narnia Code” • April 3-6: American Foreign Policy, featuring Michael Anton, former senior White House national security official • April 20: Somers Rotary Club Fishing Derby “We are pleased to offer events on a wide variety of topics this year,” said Labin Duke, executive director of the Blake Center. “They all point back to questions of faith and freedom.

Exploring those questions are essential to our mission here at the Blake Center, and we hope that all will join us in it.”

SUFFIELD PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS

KNOWLEDGEABLE. AFFORDABLE. 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

48 South Rd Somers, CT 06071 Mariossomers.com

860-698-6988 & 860-698-6986

28 North Central News March 2024

True Italian hand tossed pizza cooked directly on the stone!

Menu includes, pizzas, salads, soups, grinders, wings, and many authentic homemade Italian dinners.

now serving beer AND wine

NOW AVAILABLE

FORESTRY MULCHING

Lawn & Landscape Installations Bobcat Service • Spring Cleanups Patios & Retaining Walls Stump Grinding Brush Chipping • Brush Clearing Light Excavation

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 29

Somers Veterans Coffehouse is ‘beacon of support’ The Veterans Coffeehouse at the Somers Town Hall auditorium on the last Saturday of every month is a “beacon of support and camaraderie for the military community,” according to organizers. Sponsored by the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs, this event brings together veterans, their families, and caregivers to connect, share stories, and learn from guest speakers like Melissa and Todd Rolland of Laer Realty Partners and Jeff Daniels and Gayle Cunningham of Supreme Lending. This gathering not only provides a platform for knowledge sharing but also fosters a sense of community and trust among attendees.

Photos courtesy. of Veterans Coffeehouse

At the Veterans Coffeehouse on Feb. 24 are Melissa Rolland Left, Lisa Arroyo USA Spouse and Department fundraising volunteer shares donation updates. Right, from LAER RealtyPartners, Jeff Daniels and Gayle Melissa Rolland receives input from attending veterans.

Cunningham of Supreme Lending

March 2024 North Central News

29

30 North Central News March 2024

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 30

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:02 PM Page 31

Foodstuffs Raising Cane’s raises a ruckus in Enfield

Danny’s celebrates Pizza Day National Pizza Day was Feb. 9 and Danny’s Pizza hosted a children’s pizza making event for Enfield Family Resource Center families. Left, Brooke and Cole Dahlquist, Erin Grimes, lead parent educator for The Enfield Family Resource Center with Gianina Martucci, Lilth MacPherson, Brynn and Barrett Carrigan. Right, Christopher MacPherson with daughter Lilth MacPherson.The Enfiield Family Resource Center offers family support services promoting parenting skills and family involvement with the schools, striving to help children succeed academically, socially and emotionally.

Photos courtesy Enfield Family Resource Center

ENFIELD — The first Raising Cane’s in Connecticut opened in February to a response so huge the eatery hired Enfield Police to help with traffic and safety.

Drive-thru lines snaked double-wide through the Enfield Square parking lot back toward the old Sears building and then back around.

The restaurant is open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight.

Scone Sale soon at St. Joseph’s Residence ENFIELD — The Little Sisters of the Poor-St. Joseph’s Residence will be having its annual Scone Sale at St. Joseph’s Residence 1365 Enfield St. Scones are $3 each (they are large) and come in the following flavors: craisin or raisin. You can place orders online at https://LSPScones24.givemart.com. Or scan the QR Code for quicker access. Scones will be available for drive-thru pickup on March 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Send Your News: northcentralnews@ aol.com

SANDWICH SHOP

of East Windsor on the Sofia’s Plaza, Route 5, Exit 45 on I-91

The Rotary Club of Enfield invites you to a

Beer And Wine Tasting & Silent Auction Fundraiser at Asnuntuck Community College’s Conference Center on

122 Prospect Hill Road, East Windsor belvederepolishdeli.com

860-654-0008 Soul warming Polish food at the Delicatessen Restaurant Belvedere of East Windsor, served hot with indoor seating, or packaged to take home. We also deliver (for online orders only).

Pierogi, kielbasa, kapusta, stuffed cabbage, soups, pastries, potato pancakes, fried cutlets, pastrami and roast beef sandwiches - all made in house!

Joe’s Fine Wines & Spirits of East Windsor and Ellington will provide a delicious sampling of beer and wine. Hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a silent auction will round out the evening.

Tickets are $25 per person Contact Enfield Rotarian, or Emai: Bob Stern at sternobob1@icloud.com

FREE SLICE OF CAKE with every hot food order of $9+ With coupon. Expires 3/31/24

31

Proceeds benefit the club’s many service projects and support for Loaves and Fishes, The Enfield Food Shelf, The Enfield Public Library’s Literacy Program and other worthy causes in Enfield.

Brisket, Mac and Cheese, Burnt Ends

March 2024 North Central News

Thursday, March 14 from 6-8 p.m.

MARCH23-32.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:08 PM Page 32

Reverse

TRICK-OR-TREAT Help us give back to the children at the Connecticut Children’s Hospital From now until October 20th, Paradiso Insurance will be collecting donations at our o ce for the CT Children’s Hospital.

Donations can include: Arts and crafts

Board games

Matchbox cars

Action 昀gures

No candy or plush toys of any sort due to allergies

For questions please give us a call at

32 North Central News March 2024

860-684-5270

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:13 PM Page 33

Stafford First Selectman’s Corner

Board working to craft reasonable budget STAFFORD — The Board of Selectmen has spent the past two months diligently crafting a town budget that is reasonable and conBill Morrison servative while meeting public needs. Out of 39 department budget requests, 15 proposed reductions or zero increases, and five submitted minimal rises, showcasing commendable efforts to minimize the overall increase for taxpayers.

So far, the BOS held three special meeting budget workshops for detailed discussions, noting an increase in the general highway budget—specifically, an $850,000 allocation request for paving.

Considering this, I am proposing that we host an informational public hearing to facilitate discussion, seek direction, and listen to the opinions of taxpayers regarding inclusion of the $850,000 paving program outlined in the Public Works Department budget.

Once the date is confirmed, this

meeting will be made public, and I strongly encourage all taxpayers to attend and share their perspectives on this substantial yet essential program.

The Public Works director will present insights on the town’s paving program for fiscal year 2024-25 during the hearing.

Also submitted to the Board of Selectmen was a plan to reorganize the Building Department, aiming to streamline user requests within the department. Your feedback and insights on both proposals are highly valued, and I look forward to discussing them during the public hearing.

In related budget information, I am pleased to report a reduction in debt service by $3,319, accounting for a decrease of 0.11%. While this may not be an extravagant reduction, it signifies a positive step in the right direction for our fiscal management.

I’m pleased to announce that the town has secured multiple grants, including an $883,844 Rural Improvement Transportation Program grant through the CTDOT Capital

First Selectman Bill Morrison greets members of Cub Scout Pack 50 after they led the Pledge of Alligance at a meeting.

Photo courtesy First Selectman’s Office Program for construction of the Levinthal Run multi-use path.

The two-way path will extend between the middle and high school, designed exclusively for nonmotorists to address decadeslong safety and

accessibility concerns.

Additionally, the town has received a commitment to fund from CT DOT for the second phase of the Furnace Avenue Reconstruction.

FUNDING/page 35

House hunting?

Get prequalified and boost your buying power.

FDIC

westfieldbank.com

33

Member

March 2024 North Central News

If you’re on the hunt for a new home, getting prequalified from Westfield Bank is a smart first step. We’ll help you estimate what you can afford, and provide a prequalification letter to make your offer more attractive. Do better with your search for a dream home.

Get prequalified and get going!

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:07 PM Page 34

Stafford Vendors sought for Farmer’s Market STAFFORD — The annual Stafford Farmers Market returns for another season beginning May 11.

The market will be open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon from May 11 until Sept 21.

All vendors are CT Farm and Food, though some vendors also make artisan products.

There will be live music every week to enjoy and plenty of parking on the field next to the market field.

Participating farms accept FMNP for WIC and seniors and the market will double all of it.

Doubling coupons can be used on any food items at the market. Dogs are welcome on leash. This is a great family activity, so bring the children are invited as well. Remember, a visit to the market helps support local.

Applications accepted Stafford Farmers Market is accepting applications for CT farms, food vendors and musicians.

Farm or food vendors may also request to sell artisan products, but the farmers market does not accept any sole artisan

vendors.

Location: 9 Chestnut Hill Road, Stafford, on Route 190 Accepting: Full-time, part-time or guests.

Vendors: Fee $12 per day.

Musicians: Payed $30/single. $50/ band.

Insurance and proper coverage required for all. For an application, email Stafford FarmersMarketCT@gmail.com For details, visit the market’s website, Facebook or Instagram pages for photos and information.

USED AUTO & TRUCK PARTS FOR SALE

TURN YOUR TRASH INTO CASH!

Highest Prices Paid For Junk Cars And Scrap Metal SAME DAY PICK UP FOR YOUR JUNK CAR , We Sell Motors uto Glass, Etc... ,A Transmissions

Used Ti res $

20 And Up

34 North Central News March 2024

We provide Container Service

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

860-749-3705 888-KAR-PART

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:13 PM Page 35

Stafford Town staff and volunteers complete an AED and first aid course conducted by Stafford Ambulance EMS Officer, Cathy Cannon.

Photo courtesy First Selectman’s Office

Rotary Means Business “Rotary Means Business: Manufac,”turing in Stafford hosted by Willington Nameplate 11 Middle River Drive, Stafford Springs, will take place Thursday, March 21, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Paul Lavoie, chief manufacturing officer of the State of Connecticut, will be the keynote speaker.

Members of the Stafford business community are invited to join the event, which includes light refreshments, networking opportunities, and insights into the manufacturing industry in Stafford.

Keep an eye out on the Rotary’s Facebook page and website for more

Other state, fed funding requests pending Continued from page 33 This project encompasses the reconstruction of the roadway, drainage structures, and sidewalks from East Main Street to Edgewood Street ($3,510,800), fully funded through the CT DOT Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program.

State and federal funding requests for Town Hall accessibility are pending,

and the board is committed to advocating for the necessary funding for this crucial project.

I strongly encourage all taxpayers to remain actively engaged in the governance of our town. I am always open to discussions on how we can collectively enhance the quality of life in Stafford, making it not only enjoyable but also prosperous for the many citizens who live and work here.

information and a registration link.

Rotary members improve lives and bring positive, lasting change to communities around the world by promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, supporting education, saving mothers and children, and growing local economies.

Rotary’s top priority is the global eradication of polio. Rotary launched its polio immunization program, PolioPlus, in 1985 and in 1988 became a leading partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Visit Rotary.org and endpolio.org for more about Rotary and its efforts to eradicate polio.

Dean’s list Dean College has announced that Kacie Consolini of Stafford Springs has earned a place on the Dean’s List for the fall 2023 semester. Students named to the Dean’s List have demonstrated a serious commitment to their studies while at Dean College.

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.

Call Donald Roy 860-874-8396 CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR ANNUAL CLEANING!

Spring Special!

145

$

PROFESSIONAL DETAILING P

39.99

$

ea.

Cloudy Headlamp?

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

*Plus tax. Must be Scheduled and Completed by March 31, 2024.

Gift Certificates Available Adam Heidelmark

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

35

860.684.9123 | www.williamsfueloil.com 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

CT LIC #393553 | HOD #59

NOW OFFERING

Head Light Restoration

TUNE-UP March 2024 North Central News

• Buffing, Wax & Glaze • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning • Protectant

*

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:13 PM Page 36

$475,000 Extravaganza

36 North Central News March 2024

FEB 25 — Mar 30

Receive one drawing entry for every $0.50 Slot Dollars or 100 Table Tier Credits earned. FREEPLAY® Prize Drawings will be held on Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm–10pm.

At the 10pm Grand Prize Drawing every Saturday, one player will get lucky and win a new 2024 Volkswagen (a $48,000 value) from Fathers & Sons of West Springfield.

Swipe at a Rewards Kiosk and play between 6am—12pm on Fridays to activate a 10X Drawing Entry Multiplier!

GameSenseMA.com Use your GameSense Helpline 1.800.327.5050 Must be 21 or older

MAR24 NCN Ad.indd 1

2/6/24 1:39 PM

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:13 PM Page 37

Suffield

An annual tradition Rep. Tami Zawistowski, School Resource Officer Randy Roman, Suffield Police Chief James Canon, Lt. Ryan Burnell, Safety and Security Specialist Jeff Beiler, Capt.

Robert Palmer, Safety and Security Specialist Chad Rypysc. Students: Tyler Gregor, Weston Gregor, William Mosneaga, Colton Jacobs, Ryker Farnham, Chase Tremblay.

Photo courtesy state Rep. Tami Zawistowski’s office

Residents featured on ‘Senator Kissel and Friends’ In the latest edition of Sen. John A. Kissel’s PATV 15 show “Senator Kissel and Friends,” Kissel was joined by a Suffield mother and her daughter who are raising awareness about littleknown disorders called “PANDAS” and “PANS.” The Woodburys were instrumental in getting Oct. 9 declared “PANS/PANDAS Awareness Day” in the state of Connecticut. The show can be viewed at www.SenatorKissel.com.

Above, from left: Kissel, Jordyn Woodbury and Carrie Woodbury.

Photo courtesy state Sen. John Kissel’s office

Zawistowski delivers Valentines for first responders SUFFIELD — Keeping her annual tradition, state Rep. Tami Zawistowski (R-61st District) collected and delivered dozens of adorable Valentine’s Day cards handmade by students at Spaulding Elementary School to first responders in Suffield.

Zawistowski hosted her event as a way

to engage with elementary school students and to thank the brave men and women of the police, fire, and ambulance services for putting the community first.

Zawistowski delivered cards to the Suffield Police and Fire departments and Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association. “Seeing the children's beau-

tiful and heartfelt card designs each year is a lot of fun, and their messages certainly help brighten the spirits of our police, fire and EMS teams,” Zawistowski said.

“I want to thank the teachers and especially the children for always putting so much care and effort into these wonderful, positive messages every year.

March 2024 North Central News

37

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 5:08 PM Page 38

Classifieds Aguilar Tile and Marble Residential • Commercial New Construction Installation and Repairs

860-899-4963

over 25 years experience installing all types of ceramic tile, glass tile, mosaics, and stone Licensed and Insured License# CT00561832

Plumbing - Heating BUYING Piping GUNS Steam Specialists All types New Installations Modern & Antique Oil - Gas Single or Whole Prompt Service Warren Brothers Collections vhmi2nd@gmail.com

BUD’S

TREE MARKS AUTO

REMOVAL

FREE ESTIMATES

PARTS 22 Russell Road East Granby, CT

Peter Emmelmann

INSURED

860-930-9811

860-416-1989

860-971-7190

800-842-7490

DON’Z Start To Finish, LLC

Dave’s PLUMBPRO LLC

BUYING

STEVE CHAMBERS

Francisco Aguilar AguilarTile@outlook.com

P1 - 0203945

S3 - 0386256

Stafford Springs, CT 06076 Residential plumbing service/repair

HANDYMAN PAINTING, REMODELING & MORE Call or Text For An Estimate

239-450-0592 don.z201@gmail.com

Faucets, water heaters, toilets “We install your fixtures” camper winterizing and repairs

860-634-7956 P1-282942

25 years exp.

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

25+ years experience.

GALLERY ONE Ed or Tami tami.zaw@gmail.com

860-658-0268

Rossi Bros. Vintage Cars & Hot Rod Restorations and Mechanical Services, Mechanical Upgrades, From Small Repairs To Complete Frame Off Restoration Paul & Roy have a passion for making a classic car run and look great.

38 North Central News March 2024

BUYING Junk or wrecked cars & light trucks.

Driven in to. us or we can pick up.

Call for current pricing.

Paul Rossi owner is an Auto Body Perfectionist for 42 years

rossibrosvintagecarsandhotrods.com 34 West Street, Stafford Springs, CT

860.684.9229

All of their work is

“Show Winning” We have a saying, Do it right the first time!

• MASONRY • CARPENTRY • PAINTING Licensed and insured. Quick and reliable. Winter Services.

Relax and call Steve

860-817-4108

Roy Houle is an old school mechanic for 44 years

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:13 PM Page 39

BARN TOUR

Built for Your Lifestyle SHEDS | GARAGES | PAVILIONS

BarnYard.com 1-800-628-2276

It’s time to make your plans a reality—get started today!

Many options available • Premier styles & details

March 2024 North Central News

120 West Road, Ellington, CT 84 Stony Hill Road, Bethel, CT

39

MARCH33-40.qxp_NCN new template 2/27/24 3:13 PM Page 40

PROPANE:

DEPENDABLE CONVENIENT EFFICIENT ing v r e s Now our all of y cal i r t c e l E needs!

info@PropaneCT.com | 860-875-6221 www.PropaneCT.com

No job too big or too small.

85 years of worry-free service.

Local. Licensed. Insured.

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.

40 North Central News March 2024

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.

CALL TODAY: 800.998.2984 USARECYCLE.COM

At Your Service Since 1974

Our communities count on us.