The nation will hit the polls Nov. 5 to decide between presidential/VP candidates Harris and Walz, Trump and Vance, Stein and Ware, Oliver and Ter Maat or Kennedy Jr. and Shanahan.
Statewide in Connecticut, Christopher S. Murphy, Matthew M. Corey, Justin C. Paglino and Robert Finley Hyde vie for U.S. senator while Joe Courtney and Mike France go head-to-head for U.S. represen-
tative in Congress from the 2nd District.
Right here in North Central Connecticut, residents will have many choices for their local state senator and representatives. In an effort to better inform readers, the North Central News once again presents its Election Preview Guide.
In addition to posting each local candidate’s photo, race running in, political affiliation and more, each candidate was asked three questions. While space does not allow for all responses from all candidates to be included, the same questions and answers from directly competing candidates are used in the interest of fairness. Answers are left directly as submitted by candidates.
State Senate District 7 East Granby, Ellington, Enfield, Granby, Somers, Suffield, Windsor, Windsor Locks Candidates: Incumbent Republican
John Kissel and Democrat Cynthia Mangini. If elected/reelected, what would be your No. 1 priority/front-burner issue?
Kissel: I am Senator John A. Kissel and I am asking for your vote in the 7th Senate race. I can work across party lines but I think my Democratic friends in the legislature have painted themselves into a budget corner by using one-time federal dollars. My priority is to be a watchdog protecting
Election 2024 Election 2024
Candidates
your precious tax-dollars and rights in Hartford. That means no breaking our bonding or spending caps. These guardrails help us pay down debt, have a good bond rating, and not raise taxes.
Mangini: It’s always hard to choose just one issue with so many things that need to be addressed. If I have to choose, I’d say costs. We must reduce costs for Connecticut families. They deserve some room to breathe.
What do you feel is the issue for your constituents and/or biggest challenge for you?
Kissel: When I talk to my constituents the cost-of-living is on their mind. Inflation is hurting people and they have to stretch dollars and budget frugally. The state must do the same. We should not be hard-hearted but we must be efficient.
Mangini: Cost of living. Electric bills, housing costs, and groceries just cost too much. My opponent should know; he's an attorney for Eversource, the company responsible for these crazy utility bills.
State House District 52
Somers, Stafford, Union, Woodstock
Candidates: Incumbent Republican Kurt Vail and Democrat Ethan Werstler.
What do you feel is the issue for your constituents and/or biggest challenge for you?
Vail: The number one challenge facing people in our community is the high electric rates. I want our environment to be protected, but many of the ‘green’ initiatives we hear about are not financially viable. Many of these initiatives and many other mandated state programs are hiding in the public benefits charges on our electric bills, this charge has increased during a time when we are
already seeing so many struggling to make ends meet . I want to remove those programs from your bill, establish greater confidence in the rate setting process and reexamining the role of PURA (Public Utilities Regulatory Authority) which is made up of appointed bureaucrats.
Werstler: The biggest issue facing our district is continuing to be left behind by the decision makers in Hartford. For years, our district’s representatives have been unable to grab the attention of those decision makers, and we have suffered because of it. This district needs a state representative who is going to chase down state resources and return them to our community and make up for lost time.
Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
Vail: I am a proud father of four amazing kids, Noah, Hannah, Sarah and Vivian. I have been a life-long resident of Stafford. I believe that Somers, Stafford, Union and Woodstock is an amazing place to work and live. I am honored to have served as your State Representative for the last ten years. I can assure you that I will continue to work hard with honesty and integrity, and I humbly ask for your support on November 5th.
Werstler: TMy family has been in Connecticut for 9 generations. As a young person, who is determined to build a future in this great state, I refuse to stop fighting for what I believe is possible. With your voice and your vote, we can turn the page and move forward on a better, stronger tomorrow. The future depends on it. Visit my website, Ethanwerstler.com for more.
State House District 59
East Windsor, Enfield
Candidates: Incumbent Republican Carol Hall and Democrat Rick LeBorious. Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
Hall: I would like the voters to know I have served them honestly and diligently for more than 20 years. First, as a 13-year member of the Enfield Town Council and the past 8 years as your state representative for the 59th district. Not only have my husband Fred Hall and I planted our family roots here (children all raised here and my six grandchildren are currently students here), but I’ve also invested in our community for the past 38 years as a businesswoman.
I love our community and believe I have done everything I can to serve it and the residents of Enfield and East Windsor with honesty and integrity. I want to thank my fellow neighbors for placing their trust in me to represent them for the last 20 years and will continue to do so if elected this November 5th.
Kurt Vail Ethan Werstler
Carol Hall Rick LeBorious
Bright Nights
‘Magic Of Lights’ Returns to CT
EAST HARTFORD - Returning for a fourth year, the family-friendly drive-through holiday lights festival with a tremendous amount of twinkling and magical light displays to celebrate our grandest holiday of the year comes to Pratt & Whitney Stadium, opening Nov. 22 through Jan. 4, 2025
Pratt & Whitney Stadium will shine bright as guests weave through the spectacular 1-mile drivethrough holiday lights display with various holiday light features, all through the safety of their own car. A complete schedule and contactless ticket information are available at www.magicoflights.com.
Hours are Monday-Thursday: 5-9 p.m. FridaySunday: 5-10 p.m.Tickets are available at gate for $25 weekdays, $30 for weekends.
All tickets are per vehicle, not per person.
Eligibility based on LIHTC income requirements. Please call us to complete out a prequalification form to see if you are eligible for an Available 1 br Unit for fall 2024 or for a wait list.
Amenities:
All Units: Refrigerator, Stove, Dishwasher, Call for Aid, Community Space, Community Laundry, On Site Staff, 24 Hour Emergency on call, Sidewalks at 5% grade, Grab Bars, 650-875 sq ft
SPRINGFIELD — Bright Nights at Forest Park will be inspiring another year of memories and building upon holiday traditions as the Northeast’s premier holiday lighting experience embarks upon its 30th season.
Tickets to take the 3-mile tour through the more than 750,000 lights and sparkling iconic displays are now on sale. These includes general admission and discounted tickets. General admission ticket are $23 per car plus a $2 ticket fee. Discounted tickets are available for Roll Back Night on Wednesday, Nov. 27, when admission rolls back to 1995 when Bright Nights opened and admission was $6 per car. Tickets for $10 Tuesdays are also available. Admission is $10 per car plus a $2 ticket fee on Dec. 10 and 17.
“Bright Nights has been a heartwarming
tradition for generations of families,” said Spirit of Springfield President and Bright Nights co-founder Judy Matt. “We’re thrilled to continue this legacy and to create new memories for visitors in 2024.
Whether it’s your first time or a family tradition, the magic of Bright Nights is something you don’t want to miss.”
Bright Nights at Forest Park will be open Wednesday, Nov. 27, through Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, and closed Dec. 2 and 3. The lights will be lit nightly at 5 through 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays that include Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. For details, visit brightnights.org.
Specific Secure Entry, Washer Dryer Hookups, Hot Water Units: Included, Carpet, Luxury Vinyl Tile, Accessible Units Contact us at: Jennifer Palazzo Caroline Bill Property Manager
“We had so many incredible displays entered into this year’s Scarecrow Contest,” Ellington First Selectwoman Lori Spielman said. “It’s always so much fun to witness everyone’s creativity come to life, and I can’t wait for next year!” Photo courtesy Town of Ellington
The Ellington Lions Club coordinated the Trail of Treats event. The weather was perfect
costumes
Photo courtesy Lions Club
Left, the Revival Room’s entry in the Scarecrow Contest.
Photo by Gary Carra
Right, Earthlight’s entry in the Scarecrow Contest.
Photo by Gary Carra
Earthlight shines bright with off-the-grid cabin
ELLINGTON — Earthlight, in partnership with The Barnyard, has developed an off-grid system that efficiently provides solar-power production.
The system can power up office equipment, run entertainment systems, or keep appliances functional, with the solar panels ensuring a steady and robust supply of electricity. The panels are built to last, with materials that withstand the elements, so owners can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without worrying about frequent maintenance or replacements.
Complementing our solar panels is a state-of-theart battery backup storage system. This technology ensures that the energy harvested during the day is stored efficiently for use when you need it. Energy management systems optimize usage. Visit Earthlight headquarters in Ellington for a tour of its off-grid showcase.
Advanced Tickets are required for all events.
SANTA VISIT (photo opportunity)
November 29th • 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
WINTERFEST AND THE TUNNEL OF LIGHTS
November 29th thru December 22nd
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
School Vacation Week
December 26th thru December 30th
Tuesday thru Saturday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
December 7th • 8:00am to 10:30am
STORYTIME TROLLEY WITH SANTA & ELF
December 7th and 14th • 10:00 am - 4 :00 pm
ELF ON THE ELGIN
December 8th and 15th • 10:00 am - 4 :00 pm
From left, Earthlight’s Josh Bahler, Ben Carlson and Jay Chabot with a display of an offthe-grid cabin in partnership with The Barnyard.
Saturday, November 30th and December 14th • 10 am-3 pm
Come join us on the farm for winter family fun!
• Come see the babies and enjoy feeding the alpacas
• Visit our Farm Store and give the gift of alpaca for everyone on your list!
Clear Mountain Alpaca Farm
45 Pioneer Heights, Somers, CT • 860-749-2510 www.ClearMountainAlpacas.com
Photo by Gary Carra
Tree-mendous branches out to new site Bridal Show returning to MassMutual Center
ENFIELD — The Woman’s Club of Enfield and the Enfield Food Shelf are joining together again for Tree-mendous, an annual holiday event.
Tree-mendous has a new location sponsor: This year’s event will be sponsored by Enfield Elks Lodge 2222, and held at 138 North Maple Street, Enfield.
Admission is free to enjoy the holiday displays and support local families in need and provide scholarships to local students.
The Tree-mendous event will run Dec. 6 and 7. To launch the event there will be a special preview on Friday, Dec. 6, from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday’s Mix, Mingle and Bid night will include the beautifully decorated trees and wreaths plus hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, special raffles and a silent auction.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, the event will open at 10 a.m. and run until the raffle drawings at 8 p.m. Join special holiday activities for children and families along with the beautiful holiday displays.
(860)623-7323
Donations are welcome from businesses and individuals in support of this event.
Donations may include fully decorated trees and/or wreathes as well as other new holiday items.
Event sponsorships are also available and will be accepted before Nov. 7.
Contact Sharon Dambrosio of Woman’s Club of Enfield at 860-763-5330 for more information.
Admission to this event is free.
Visitors to Tree-mendous can enjoy the wonderful holiday display, do activities and take holiday photos.
On Dec.r 7, at the conclusion of the Tree-mendous, all trees and wreaths will be raffled off to lucky winners. Proceeds from the event will benefit Enfield Food Shelf and Woman’s Club of Enfield.
Enjoy the beautiful holiday displays and support local families in need through this annual holiday raffle.
SPRINGFIELD — The Western New England Bridal Show celebrates its 20th anniversary at the MassMutual Center on Sunday, Nov. 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
While the wedding industry has evolved immensely over the last two decades, the Western New England Bridal Show continues to be a popular part of the planning process for engaged couples planning their weddings in the area. Couples from across western Massachusetts, northern Connecticut, and beyond will connect with top wedding professionals, including makeup artists, DJs, and entertainment companies. Tickets are $8 in advance through cjcevents.com and $10 at the door.
Leslie Hickey, Owner
Joe’s has a wide selection of brand names as well as craft beer, great wines, whisky and bourbons, and boutique spirits. We have a commitment to excellent customer service, community, and our customers.
Fine Wine & Spirits 149 North Road
Syme Family Farm Christmas Barn
East Windsor East Windsor
First Selectman’s Corner
New lights, farm bond made for bright October
EAST WINDSOR — In
October, the town held a ribboncutting for new field lighting on the soccer field at the Abbe Road Soccer Complex, allowing for an enhanced experience for our high school and recreational athletes.
Night games are a fantastic way to build a sense of community pride and show support for young athletes.
On a side note: Oct. 25 was East Windsor High School homecoming and we had what looked like more than 200 people in attendance – again.
This addition to our soccer facility, with funds provided by State Rep. Jaime Foster, is a tremendous enhancement to an already beautiful facility, and is going to help us build an even stronger sense of community.
Also in October, the State Bond Commission authorized more than $9 million in funding for farmland preservation, a measure championed by legislators on both sides of the aisle.
Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt joined State Reps. Foster and Carol Hall, State Sen. Saud Anwar, and me at Syme Family Farm here in East Windsor to announce the funding and what it means for farm families in Connecticut. The funding approved by the State Bond Commission is a huge boost to agriculture. It helps farm families make critical decisions about land stewardship and generational succession planning.
With the average age of farmers in Connecticut over
age 60, these stewardship and succession planning conversations have direct implications for whether the land that they own will stay in agriculture or be developed for some other purpose. Empowering DoAg with additional funds will help more Connecticut families be able to decide to permanently preserve their lands, protecting bucolic communities and controlling development.
This will help towns in our region (from Simsbury to Somers, from Enfield to Manchester, and everywhere in between —including East Windsor) preclude additional grid-scale solar developments.
Most often (and in every instance in East Windsor), grid-scale solar projects are built on privately owned land where the property owners agree to either sell or lease their land to solar developers. Often, these decisions are rooted in a landowner’s desire to retire, with the land being a key component of their retirement plans.
The additional preservation dollars approved by the Bond Commission, as well as programmatic changes legislatively championed by Rep. Jaime Foster, have led to a 200% increase in farms preserved this year over last year. These preservation efforts preserve land in perpetuity, allow for continued access to farmland for aspiring farmers, and pay farm families for the full value of their properties – all while allowing them to retain ownership.
Jason Bowsza
Left, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new field lighting at the Abbe Road Soccer Complex was made even more spectacular with the northern lights. Right, First Selectman Jason Bowsza and other officials at Syme Family Farm.
Courtesy photos
East Windsor East Windsor
Swift celebration
East Windsor Community Services won the Best Booth Award at the town’s Halloween celebration.
Courtesy photo
Police excited about creation of cadet program
Attention all East Windsor residents and businesses: We are very excited to announce that we’ve re-established a Cadet program here at the East Windsor Police Department.
A cadet (formally Explorer) program has not been in effect in East Windsor for over 20 years. This program is available to kids from 12-20 years old. We will be meeting bi-monthly to learn all facets of law enforcement, practice and train on safety and community engagement. We anticipate having our cadets become integral parts of our community and make their presence known at future community events.
There are many police departments in the state who maintain cadet/Explorer programs and one thing we all share in common is a funding need. Some
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
departments elect to charge participants or instill dues, however, here in East Windsor – we are electing to admit all kids free of charge. We wouldn’t want to deny a kid an opportunity due to money concerns.
Herein lies the problem: It is nearly $1,000 to outfit a cadet as well as residual training/academy opportunities that will be afforded to them in the coming year.
We are asking all East Windsor residents & businesses to consider making a donation to this program — 100% of all proceeds go towards outfitting, training and equipping our cadets. Checks can be made payable to “Town of East Windsor” and on the remittance line please reference “Police Cadets.” Please mail checks to 25 School Street East Windsor CT 06088 attention Deputy Chief Ben Murphy.
East Windsor Police Department
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.
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.
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
In late 2023, after 42 years in the Polish Home of Enfield, Pierogi Queen and Smoke BBQ relocated to East Windsor’s Sofia’s Plaza at “Belvedere”.
Following overwhelming demand from loyal Enfield customers, the business now opened a second location in Enfield with its signature food truck/trailer/smokehouse. Situated near the site of the Taste of Enfield 4th of July celebration, the food truck features its award-winning menu of pierogi, kielbasa, brisket, pulled pork, mac and cheese, and fries; with unique dishes like apple cinnamon pierogi with vanilla ice cream or loaded fries with brisket burnt ends.
This menu garnered ‘Best Food in Show’ repeatedly on the Taste of Enfield and the second prize in Mohegan Sun’s BBQ competition people’s choice award, as well as ‘Best BBQ’ from readers of North Central News magazine.
For the next two months the business plans to be open behind the Enfield Town Hall on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Other days the same menu will be available at the East Windsor location.
A Magical Wonderland
November 27 - January 5 Closed December 2-3 Buy Your Tickets Today! Online at brightnights.org or Big Y Family Markets Stop at Santa’s Magical Forest for souvenirs, snacks, and the carousel! Forest Park, Spring昀eld, MA brightnights.org Over 750,000 Lights Along a Three Mile Drive!
Ellington Ellington
First Selectwoman’s Corner
DPW gets TV spotlight
ELLINGTON — I recently welcomed Tom Modzelewski, director of Public Works, and Carolyn Kidney, administrative assistant at DPW, as the special guests on my monthly TV show.
They shared a ton of great information about all of the services that Public Works provides, and it was great to have them join me. (photo)
I recently attended two ribbon-cutting events for new businesses in town.
Ellington Racquet Club held its grand opening on Oct. 19 and had a great turnout. The new Starbucks on Route 83 is also open now. It was an honor to attend both of these events as supporting local businesses is important to me.
We saw a steady stream of residents that took advantage of this year’s early voting system; it was wonderful to see so many people exercising their right to vote, and the expanded window allowed everyone to cast their vote in a convenient manner.
On Thursday, Oct. 10, Denis Giroux, DPW maintainer 1, took second place at the 2024 CASHO-CIRMA Snowplow Safety Rodeo in the Pickup Truck with 8’ Plow class. Congratulations to Denis and all the other winners of the event.
All Town Offices will be closed on Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day.
First Selectwoman Lori Spielman, left, with Carolyn Kidney and Tom Modzelewski of the DPW. Right, grand openings at Ellington Racquet Club and Starbucks.
Photos courtesy Town of Ellington
Lori Spielman
HARTFORD —
As a state representative in a farming district, keeping our farming identity — as well as preserving our farmland — is important. Farmers face economic and weather challenges, including droughts, late frosts, and flooding rains.
I’m happy to share with you that on Oct. 22, Gov. Ned Lamont and the State Bond Commission approved $9,386,505 for the Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) for the preservation of Connecticut’s agricultural lands.
The funds will be used to purchase development rights in perpetuity to qualifying farms under the State’s Farmland Preservation Program. It is anticipated that these funds will finance the acquisition of development rights for approximately 10 farms statewide.
According to CT DoAg, the state is closing in on preserving nearly 50,000 acres of state farmland.
We face a complexity as we advocate for legislation to preserve local farmland that residents who have come to enjoy the esthetics of living around farmland can continue to enjoy. Sometimes, the people farming the land are leasing from the landowner, and the landowner has an ultimate goal to sell
that land as part of their retirement plan.
We’ve worked toward farmland preservation by increasing the cap the state can pay when allowing grants-inaid for farmland preservation, and we’ve made it easier to pull down additional funds.
This newest funding of nearly $9.4 million makes farmland preservation –and the ability to pay landowners more – makes preservation a more economically viable option.
Having that farmland preserved and still being able to collect funds from leasing the land to a farmer, is one way to shift the economic viability of farmland preservation.
We’ve also strengthened the position of the CT Siting Council to make it easier for towns to represent themselves (HB 5507) and require solar developers to contribute to a fund that helps towns represent themselves. Overall, we made it easier for towns to become automatic intervenors before the CT Siting Council and increased the ability for residents to engage the CT Siting Council and oppose solar projects, which often focus on farmland.
We have more to do. We can’t just pat a farmer on the back and say, “thanks,” or “we want you to be our neighbor and we don’t want you to sell, but .…” We need to invest in the local agricultural economy. We need to invest in farm-to-school programs (something
Vernon Public Schools has been doing), invest in farmers market nutrition programs, and invest in policies that increase the market share that makes agriculture viable, such as making sure farmers have access to the SNAP market.
Choose to shop locally and support local farms. Get your produce from a Farm CSA. Don’t get flustered when you’re behind a tractor – this is part of living in a farming community.
If you have ideas on this topic or any concerns you may have, please feel free to contact me. I can be reached at 860240-8585.
ELLINGTON — On May 13, the Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the establishment of a Charter Revision Commission. The commission held nine meetings between May 22 and Aug. 7, and conducted public hearings June 5 and July 31.
On Aug. 7 the commission unanimously voted to send their draft final report to the Board of Selectmen for consideration.
On Aug. 19 the Board of Selectmen held a public hearing and voted to accept the commission’s report and to send the recommendations to the electors of Ellington in the Nov. 5 election.
The question on the ballot: Shall the Charter of the Town of Ellington be amended in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the final report of the bipartisan Charter Revision Commission dated August 7, 2024?
Recommendation 1: Delete the reference to the Auditing Committee in Section 603.
The Board of Selectmen has the authority to appoint ad hoc committees as the need arises. The town engages an outside
professional entity to audit the town’s finances and other town functions in accordance with law. The appointment of a permanent, internal auditing committee duplicates existing processes.
Recommendation 2: Updaate the general description and duties of the first selectman in order to integrate the position of Town administrator into the town staff (Sections 801, 802 & 803).
The first selectman’s historical role as day-to-day manager of town staff has been transferred to the position of town administrator. The first selectman’s position was reduced to part-time in 2023. While the first selectman remains the town’s chief elected official and chief executive officer, the day-to-day responsibility of managing town staff was transferred to a full-time town administrator in 2023.
Recommendation 3: Include the following positions in Section 1001: town administrator, emergency and risk manager, youth services director and senior center director.
These positions already exist as administrative departments. However,
the positions were created or amended since the last charter revision.
Recommendation 4: Replace the current reference to Section 803 with a reference to a new section 1024(D).
Section 1002 of the charter describes the appointment and eligibility of administrative officers and department heads employed by the town. The current version of the charter refers to Section 803 which describes the first selectman’s role of appointing certain personnel. The proposed charter revisions transfer this responsibility to the town tdministrator as described in the new Section 1024(d).
Recommendation 5: Update the title and description of the position and duties of the emerfency and risk manager in Section 1008.
This revision updates the title of the existing position and articulates more specifically the role of the position. Additionally, the revision adds reference to the town’s existing job description for the position.
Other recommendations:
Recommendation 6: Amend Section 1012 to revise the process by which the town contracts with a firm or person to fulfill the role of town engineeer.
Recommendation 7: Add Section 1024, a new section, describing the qualifications, process for appointment and removal and duties and responsibilities of the town administrator.
Recommendation 8: Amend Section 1109(B) to replace deputy first selectman with “town administrator” as a staff member who can act in the absence of the first selectman or finance officer for the purpose of countersigning authorizations to make certain payments on behalf of the town and to delete the lanquage in subsection (F) limiting the transfer of unencumbered funds from one department to another during during only the last three months of the fiscal year.
The amendments in their entirety are available for review on the town’s website at www.ellington-ct.gov or in the office of the Ellington Town Clerk at 55 Main St., Ellington.
and the tow Palshaw
Tom Jamiso
Hany J
Enfield Enfield
Food Shelf gets boost from credit union ‘Cash Back’ effort
EAST HARTFORD — Three nonprofit organizations devoted to food security and education, including the Enfield Food Shelf, have received a total of $27,636 from American Eagle Financial Credit Union (American Eagle FCU), having won the latest round of voting in the credit union’s Cash Back to the Community program. The program, which has been running since 2020, has donated over $490,000 to local organizations dedicated to improving their communities.
In this quarterly round of the Cash Back program, the following three organizations received $9,212.33 each: Enfield Food Shelf, Windsor Education Foundation and Windsor Food & Fuel Bank.
“I am so thankful to everyone at American Eagle and to all those who voted for Enfield Food Shelf to receive the American Eagle Community Award. This is an incredibly generous donation,” said Kathleen Souvigney, executive director, Enfield Food Shelf. “It will provide enough groceries for our shopping families to enjoy 38,300 meals
our grocery program. We are so grateful to American Eagle for being such a strong and dedicated partner."
Once each quarter, American Eagle FCU donates 1% of its credit and debit card interchange income — the fees paid for credit and debit card transactions — to three nonprofit organizations in its service area.
Under the program, community members and American Eagle FCU members nominate and vote for the organizations that will receive the funds each quarter through the credit union’s website, social media, and email. The top three vote-getting organizations receive the donations.
together—meals that provide an important bridge for families between their available resources and their actual needs. American Eagle was pivotal in
helping to provide lunches for children in need this summer through our Lunch Link program and they continue to make a positive impact for families in
“Supporting nonprofits like these organizations is what makes our Cash Back to the Community program so impactful,” said American Eagle FCU President & CEO Howard Brady. “Cash Back to the Community is 100 percent community-nominated and chosen, the funding is generated with each tap and swipe of our members’ debit or credit cards and we are about to top half a million dollars in donations since it began.”
From left, Braden Haddock, AEFCU Enfield Branch Manager; Kathleen Souvigney, executive director, Enfield Food Shelf; and Howard Brady, AEFCU CEO and president.
Courtesy photo
DEMOCRATS DELIVER
» $370 million in new federal funding
» $660 million in middle-class tax cuts
» $4.4 billion in our record Rainy Day Fund
» $7.7 billion in add’l pension debt paid down
» $9.4 million in state funding to Ellington
» An end to most state retirement taxes
Enfield Enfield
Read all about it: Library celebrating 150 years
ENFIELD — When it first opened, the Enfield Library was on the second floor of town hall in 1874.
On Saturday, Nov. 9, the Friends of the Enfield Libraries and the Enfield Culture and Arts Commission will be celebrating 150 years of Enfield Libraries.
Below is a brief history of the Enfield Libraries.
1874: Library opens in Enfield on the second floor of Town Hall.
1910-1913: A resident named John Pickens petitioned the Carnegie Foundation to secure funding for the first dedicated library building in Enfield.
Andrew Carnegie gave $20,000 to the town to build the library following negotiations with Pickens.
1914: The new library was dedicated on Feb. 27 on Pearl Street and opened on May 5.
The Pearl Street Library was the main branch of the Enfield Library until the Central Library was built.
Above left: A view of the Enfield Public Library on Pearl Street, which opened on May 5, 1914. A German cannon captured in the Battle of Argonne that was placed on the library lawn in 1920 can be seen at the. left in the picture. It was dismantled and used as scrap during World War II. Right: Coverage in The Thompsonville Press announces an open house at the new Enfield Central Library in 1968.
1920: A German 77 cannon that had been captured at the Battle of Argonne was placed on the library lawn and dedicated on Nov. 11. (It was later broken up and used for scrap during World War II.)
1967: A new centrally located library for Enfield was built on Middle Road. This building is now a branch of the central library.
1968: The Central Library on Middle Road opened its doors in October.
For more information on the 150th celebration, visit the Enfield Public Library on Facebook.
Little Sisters ‘Christmas Bazaar’ Nov. 15 and 16
ENFIELD - The Little Sisters of the Poor – St. Joseph’s Residence will hold their annual Christmas Bazaar & Tag Sale Nov. 15 and 16 at 1365 Enfield Street, in Enfield. There will be lots of games, food, fun, and plenty to start your Christmas shopping. Lunch will be available for purchase. St. Joseph’s Residence provides care for 70 elderly poor residents. All proceeds will help to complete ongoing building projects that are in need of being upgraded and/or replaced.
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Grow The Best
Both our Ellington and Tolland stores will remain open until just before Christmas…
For all your holiday needs, we will have a nice selection of apples, winter vegetables CT produced pies, breads, maple products, and honey. Also our own store made apple cider donuts and many other delicious goodies. Gift certificates are available as well as some very unique gift items made by local artisans. Starting around Thanksgiving we will have a huge selection of Christmas trees, wreaths, winter logs, and”kissing” balls.
Enfield Enfield
ENFIELD — Team Depot, The Home Depot’s associate volunteer force partnered with Enfield Rotarians, Enfield Food Shelf personnel, Enfield Garden Club members, Greater Enfield Kiwanis, community volunteers, and Enfield Senior Center personnel to lay out and install a drip irrigation system to provide water more efficiently to the entire 2-acre Common Grounds Rotary Garden and increase yields that are donated to the Enfield Food Shelf.
Volunteers worked with UConn master gardeners, who designed the system and oversaw the project for the season. Supplies for the irrigation project were purchased through a Home Depot Foundation grant.
The Enfield Garden Club paid for the lime that was also spread that day by the group of volunteers. Home Depot Foundation also paid for the delivery of lime and materials to the garden.
The Common Grounds Rotary Garden is located behind the Enfield Senior Center.
Depot
Photo courtesy of Enfield Rotary Club
Enfield Enfield
Parks and Recreation
Enfield Recreation program information is available online. Enfield Recreation offers a range of recreation programs for preschoolers, youth, teens, and adults.
Check out the Recreation homepage at www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation for details or to register for the following programs.
KINDERGARTEN BASKETBALL
An introductory basketball program for youth in kindergarten will be held on Sundays.
The program will consist of eight 55-minute sessions in which participants will learn the basic fundamentals of basketball while being exposed to the concept of organized youth sports.
Pre-registration is required.
The program will be Jan. 5, 2025-Feb. 23 at the Enfield High School gym from 11-11:55 a.m.
Registration is open to Enfield residents only.
Fee is $60 per participant.
The deadline to register for the program is Nov. 21 at 4 p.m.
INSTRUCTIONAL BASKETBALL
A coed instructional program for youth in
grades 1 and 2 will be held Sunday afternoons. Participants will work in teams, to learn the fundamentals of basketball.
Preregistration is required. The program will be Jan. 5, 2025-Feb. 23 at the Enfield High School gym.
First grade will be held from 12:30-1:30 p.m.; second grade will be held from 1:45-2:45 p.m.
Registration is open to Enfield residents only.
Fee is $70 per participant.
Deadline to register is Nov. 21 at 4 p.m.
OPEN PLAY VOLLEYBALL
The 2024-2025 Adult Open Play Volleyball program is designed for individuals ages 18+ looking to play competitive, recreational volleyball.
Participants will self-organize league play within scheduling parameters provided by the Recreation Department.
The program will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Eli Whitney School in Enfield.
Fee is $67 for residents and $83.75 for nonresidents.
Check the Recreation Department’s website to see if spaces are still available for the volleyball program.
Scouts honored
Students Frank and Thomas Troiano recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.
Courtesy photo
Your Republican Legislators working for YOU! Honesty, Integrity and Hard Work!
Election Da y : N OV. 5t h
Representative Kurt Vail
•Public Safety Committee
•Aging Committee
CT District 52
Serving his community since 2015
• Ranking Member of Veterans Affairs
•Commerce Committee
• Leading t he discussion on Crumbling Foundations since 2015 and serving on t he board of CFSIC
• Endorsed by POACT, NRA, CTRAMM, AFSCME Council 4, CT Realtors, NFIB, CSBTC, CCDL, FOP
• Named 2023 Legislator of the Year by CT Association for Healthcare at Home
• Worked with Senator Kissel on land conveyance to secure property to build a public safety communication tower
• Worked with Senator Gordon to secure a land conveyance in Woodstock for recreational use
• Suppor ted property tax exemptions for Veterans
Senator John Kissel
CT 7th Senate District
Serving his community since 1993
•Ranking Member of Judiciary Committee
•Chair of Regulations Review Committee
•Awards from AARP, MADD
Endorsed
•POACT
• ARTC PAC
• CSBTC
• CT S tate Police
• CT Realtors
Senator Je昀 Gordon
CT Senate District 35
• As your Senator, Jeff fought the health insurance companies and won! Now, it is more dif昀cult for them to deny coverage for medical treatments in Connecticut.
• Jef f stood up for families and negotiated the largest income tax reduction for working families in state history.
• Jef f opposed the governor’s budget cuts and restored $240 million in funding for public education.
• Jef f kept rural health services accessable, ensuring Rockville Hospital stayed open, maternity services continued at Johnson Memorial, and Day Kimball received necessary funding.
Paid for by Somers Republican Town committee, Mike Streeter, Treasurer and Stafford Republican Town Committee, Elizabeth Dunay, Treasurer. Approved by John Kissel, Jeff Gordon and Kurt Vail.
Somers Somers
VA sponsors ski workshop in Nov.
SOMERS – Department of Veterans Affairs in Somers is sponsoring a free ski workshop on Thursday, Nov. 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Somers Town Hall (Auditorium), 600 Main St., Somers.
This event is open to the public. RSVP by sending an email to: Veterans@SomersCT.gov, including your name, email address and phone number. There will be free pizza and beverages for all attendees.
This engaging and educational experience promises to enhance skiing skills, whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier.
The workshop, led by instructor David England, offers an opportunity to learn the crucial technique of maintaining balance and control on the slopes. Discover the secrets behind staying centered over your skis, an essential skill that ensures safety and performance on any terrain.
Throughout the session, England will guide you through practical exercises, including his “bellybutton defense move,” which focuses on smoothly transitioning your weight and rolling your feet and skis onto the new inside-uphill edges. This technique is a game-changer for those looking to improve their skiing prowess.
Business of the Month
Giving gifts is aways in season and the Humble Fox Gift Shop in Somers is the place to find that perfect gift. Nominated for exemplary customer service, innovative products and donating to town projects, the Humble Fox is the Somers Business of the Month. It is located in the Lord Somers Center at 11 South Road. The award was presented by First Selectman Tim Keeney to store owner Sara Anderson. Nominations can be sent by email to EDCSomers@gmail.co m, or by regular mail to EDC, 600 Main St., Somers, CT 06071.
Photo courtesy Economic Development Commission
Somers Somers
Ed Foundation awards grants
The Somers Education Foundation awarded $13,566 in professional development grants to the Somers Elementary School so 19 teachers could participate in in LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) literacy training.
LETRS provides comprehensive, intensive, in depth training in brain science, phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and written language.
With LETRS training, teachers gain a deeper understanding of the research behind the Science of Reading, empowering them to engage in meaningful discussions about instructional strategies and student outcomes.
Teachers are not only prepared to employ evidence-based practices in their classrooms, but they understand
the why behind the instructional practices.
Per SEF president, Dr. Paul Salva, “This is exactly what the SEF was founded for and is ecstatic to provide this timely funding.”
Sarah Martin, K-5 reading consultant
instructional leader, “LETRS training compliments the extensive professional development that the district provides around the Science of Reading. This training has been so well received that several more SES teachers are anticipating starting LETRS training this year.”
Open space and trails
The Somers Open Space and Trails
Committee is looking for volunteers to help maintain trail networks in town.
Maintenance includes working with committee member to check on trail conditions, cut back vegetation, and improving and restoring sections of trails.
Those interested should contact the Somers Recreation Department at 860265-3840 or mparsell@somersct.gov.
The Somers Education Foundation has awarded more than $13,000 in professional development grants to Somers Elementary School so 19 teachers can participate in a literacy training program.
Photo courtesy of Somers Education Foundation
MEDICARE WORKSHOPS
One door opens in Enfield, 2 doors close
ENFIELD — On Oct. 4, Enfield officially got “The Boot” –as in L.L. Bean’s infamous Bean Boot mobile as the new 25,000 foot store opened its doors in Brookside Plaza.
“Our four 2024 store openings represent a significant step forward in our commitment to making L.L.Bean’s exceptional outdoor gear, apparel and footwear accessible to a broader audience,” said Greg Elder, L.L.Bean chief retail officer.
L.L. Bean, which is known for its legendary customer service, is now hiring for full- and part-time positions at each new store location. Interested candidates are invited to apply at llbeancareers.com.
Just two days later, workers and patrons of Enfield’s TGI Fridays on Elm Street were greeted by locked doors, lights off and a note on the door:
L.L. Bean has opened its location at Brookside Plaza.
TGIF and Ninety Nine have closed.
EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY IN NOVEMBER
Prize Drawings will be held on Fridays & Saturdays in November from 4pm–10pm. At every drawing, ten names will be called to spin the giant prize wheel for a chance at a brand new Mercedes-Benz (valued at $55,000) from Mercedes-Benz of Springfield. EVERY PERSON WHO SPINS THE PRIZE WHEEL AT EVERY DRAWING HAS A CHANCE TO WIN A CAR!
STAFFORD — As we transition into November, I’d like to highlight progress we’ve made as a community and share key initiatives. This month brings an important opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions regarding our town’s future, particularly as we prepare for the budget cycle and continue our collaborative efforts with boards and committees.
The Wall of Honor Committee is focused on completing Phase 4 of the project at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Olympic Circle, which honors veterans from Stafford who bravely served their country during the 20th century. This final phase includes installation of an accessible walkway and sign, and continues to seek name submissions. To qualify, veterans must have been residents of Stafford at some point and have received an honorable discharge. If you would like to have a name added, please send discharge documents (DD214), excluding service number, to Stafford Town Hall, 1 Main St., Stafford Springs, CT. 06076 or contact rich@staffordveterans.org. The submission deadline is Dec. 31.
At Town Hall, preparations for the fiscal ear 2025-26 budget are underway with a proactive and earlier-thanusual timeline. Town department budget requests are due Nov. 14, and the Board of Selectmen's budget will be submitted to the Board of Finance by Feb. 3, 2025.
The first public hearing to discuss the budget is scheduled
for March 12, 2025. This will provide an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions. The annual meeting is planned for March 26, 2025, followed by a town referendum April 8, 2025. This budget will play a critical role in shaping our community’s financial direction for the next fiscal year, and I encourage everyone to please get involved in the process.
We’ve been having productive discussions with the Board of Education on shared costs for services provided to the community. Collaborating with the BOE has been a pleasure and we are exploring innovative ideas that enhance services and benefit both boards while reducing costs.
Upcoming, selectmen will discuss challenges related to office space — or the lack thereof — along with accessibility at Town Hall. Our goal is to better meet the needs of residents and enhance the overall functionality of our workspace. We aim to create a more welcoming environment for visitors while ensuring staff can serve more effectively.
As we enter the season of thanks and giving, I want to highlight community initiatives that embody these sentiments.
The 2024 Holiday Gift Assistance Program supports Stafford families by providing supplementary gifts to those needing a little help this holiday season. Interested families can find details on the Town/Social Services webpage or through Jenn Strong, 860-6847752, strongj@staffordct.org. The program is accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys, pajamas, items for teenagers, stocking stuffers, wrapping paper, books,
games, puzzles and monetary contributions. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Senior/Community Center (3 Buckley Highway). Wish list tags with items requested for children are also available. To participate, reach out to Grace Parrow, 860-684-3906, parrowg@staffordct.org.
A Veterans Day celebration sponsored by Stafford High School is scheduled for Nov. 8, from 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m.. All veterans are invited to join for recognition and camaraderie. To RSVP, contact SHS Secretary Anne Harrington at 860-684-4233 or HarringtonA@Stafford.K12.CT.US.
On Nov. 9, the town will express gratitude to our first responders at an appreciation dinner and recognition event from 4-7 p.m. Invitations have been extended to firefighters, EMS personnel, police officers, dispatchers, CERT members and emergency department personnel. We invite you to help honor our local heroes by writing letters or cards of gratitude (children’s submissions encouraged), donating to support the event, or volunteering at the dinner. For details, visit the town homepage or contact Amber Wakley at 860-851-8102 or amberw@staffordct.org.
As first selectman, I want to express my deep appreciation for our incredible town and the residents who make it such a special place. This Thanksgiving season, I am especially thankful for each of you and the unique contributions you bring to our town. Thank you for your commitment to making our community a better place. I wish you all a joyful and fulfilling season.
Bill Morrison
STATE SENATOR JOHN A. KISSEL
“It has been an honor and privilege to represent the 7th district in the state Senate. North Central Connecticut is the best place in Connecticut to live, work and raise a family. Together we can make it even better. On November 5th, I ask for your vote so I can continue to be your strong voice in Hartford.”
I’M HONORED TO BE ENDORSED BY
Election 2024 Election 2024
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Continued from page 3
State House District 59
East Windsor, Enfield
Candidates: Incumbent Republican Carol Hall and Democrat Rick LeBorious.
Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
LeBorious: I am running for State Representative in the 59th House District to represent the residents of Enfield and East Windsor because I want our communities to thrive. I am a husband, father, grandfather and small business owner. I grew up in the Brainerd Park neighborhood of Enfield. I served as Enfield’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor. I am currently a resident of East Windsor, where my family and I moved to help my wife’s parents when they got older. I have continued to be involved in the East Windsor community. I’ll use my decades of experience as the owner of small business to increase blue collar jobs and strengthen manufacturing. I will make sure women’s health rights and LGBTQ+ rights are protected. I will continue to work every day to listen and understand the needs of my towns and I will represent all the voters of my district, when I am elected State Representative.
ment, bolstering mental health resources to meet growing needs, and further strengthening our health insurance coverage are essential steps to ensuring a healthier, more resilient Connecticut.
Siracusa: The candidate did not respond to repeated requests to return comments.
What do you feel is the issue for your constituents and/or biggest challenge for you?
State Senate District 3
East Hartford, East Windsor, Ellington, South Windsor
Candidates: Incumbent Democrat Saud Anwar and Republican Matt Siracusa.
If elected/re-elected, what would be your No. 1 priority/front-burner issue?
Anwar: If re-elected, I am committed to prioritizing the cost and quality of healthcare in Connecticut. While our state's healthcare system ranks among the best in the nation, there remains room for meaningful improvements. I aim to build on recent advancements, such as our discount prescription drug program and expanded insurance coverage for lifesaving preventive screenings. Addressing our physician and all other healthcare workforce shortage through workforce training and recruit-
Anwar: The cost of living is another critical issue for my constituents. Although inflation has eased, many still feel the strain of high prices, especially in food, utilities and housing. I am committed to cracking down on corporate price-gouging and ensuring that wages keep pace with the rising cost of living. I also seek innovative solutions to address our housing challenges. Workforce-oriented and transportationoriented housing are promising ways to support economic growth, alleviate shortages, and ensure our communities remain vibrant and accessible. With costs rising across various sectors, I will work diligently to hold companies accountable, ensuring they provide genuine value rather than exploiting consumers.
Siracusa: The candidate did not respond to repeated requests to return comments.
State House District 57
East Windsor, Ellington, Vernon
Candidates: Incumbent Democrat
Jaime Foster and Republican Jen Dzen. If elected/re-elected, what would be your No. 1 priority/front-burner issue?
Foster: The number one priority issue to work on if re-elected is affordability for families.
I supported creating Connecticut's largest income tax cut, fought for record funding to be sent back to all three towns, and prohibited lobbying costs from being recouped by utility companies. I increased the money all three towns receive in Education Cost Sharing (ECS) for schools, including state aid for tuition when children leave district, for example, to go to VoAg schools. We secured $1 million in addi-
Saud Anwar Matt Siracusa
Jaime Foster Jen Dzen
Election 2024 Election 2024
Campaign nears finish line for state officeholders
ways to help lower costs for Connecticut residents and put money in their pockets
ional dollars for East Windsor in the Mashantucket Pequot Fund to help keep property taxes in check. We exempted more retirement income for seniors and exempted fully disabled veterans on their home or car property taxes.
There is still more to do when it comes to protecting consumers from price gouging at grocery stores. We need to continue to fight for better regulation of the utility companies, including energy power purchase agreements that work for the people of Connecticut, aligning with our values and our fiscal priorities and protecting energy ratepayers. I'm committed to passing legislation that guarantees local benefits of grid scale solar arrays, namely that they pay their fair share of taxes, but also preserves grid availability for local renewable interests. I want to see external tuition payments fully covered by the state (currently passed compromise of 55%). These should all be
Dzen: The number one priority is the cost of living. Connecticut is pricing residents out. Too many people are another tax hike away from leaving. We need to find ways to reduce taxes like the prepared food tax in grocery stores.
People who are looking for a healthier solution to meals than fast food restaurants are being penalized for grabbing something at the grocery store. Another tax reduction that needs to be reviewed is the Highway tax that charges trucks fordriving in our state. That cost is being passed down to us, the consumer who is already paying sales tax on the item.
Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
Foster: One interesting fact is that I am the only legislator who is a scientist by profession in the legislature. I am proud to bring a critical, data-driven and empirical approach to addressing Connecticut's biggest challenges. As
such, in the past, I have worked with the Connecticut Scholar Strategy Network to convene the first annual "Moving Beyond Implications" conference, which offered researchers and scholars the opportunity to present their policyminded scholarship to bipartisan legislators interested in evidence-based policymaking.
Dzen: I think the most important thing that I would like voters to know about me is that I am invested in our communities. Our family runs a small farm business which has been in operation since the 1930’s. We also became store owners in Ellington about 25 years ago because we genuinely love being a part of this area. My husband and I grew up in this area and we are raising our three amazing kids here. I have served on the Ellington Board of Education for seven years, as Chair for the last three years. For me it is time to do more. My hope is to give back to this community and the state that has given so much to us.
Candidates: Incumbent Republican Jeff Gordon and Democrat Merry Garrett. What do you feel is the issue for your constituents and/or biggest challenge for you?
Gordon: The #1 issue remains the high cost of living and running a business
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Continued from page 43
in Connecticut. I have a strong track record of working on this issue. I am continuing to work on this issue.
Garrett: Constantly and legitimately constituents are concerned with the tax burdens and although the cost of living has improved they are not feeling the benefits of it due to shrinkflation and the middle income earners want the top 20% to pay their fair share in taxes — which should decrease their tax burdens.
Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
Gordon: I am known as someone who works in a bipartisan way, working with people, and using common sense. This is how you get things done. There are candidates for office who got the Working Families Party endorsement and by doing so pledged NOT to work with moderates. But the majority of people and of legislators are moderate, so pledging NOT to work with them is wrong and will be unproductive. That is not my approach as a State Senator. And my track record shows that my approach is successful. I spend a lot of time out and about all 13 towns of the 35th District meeting with people. I am known as a hard worker who keeps informed about issues when making decisions and taking votes. These are the ways to work for people. I know this also through what I have been doing for more than 30 years as a doctor, caring for people who have cancers or blood disprders. It is all part of my work ethic.
Garrett: My multi-party nominations from the Democratic Party, Independent Party and Working Families Party underscores the broad opposition to my opponent. I am working for all people regardless of affiliation. I’ve been endorsed by all of the major labor unions and others because I am and will continue to be pro-workers and for bringing relief to the middle class.
Please, I implore you to look at the senate voting record of my opponent to see what he voted against or did not care to vote for at all. It is opposite of my agenda to:
-Be an effective, dedicated and productive member of the CT State Senate for the 35th district and I will NOT serve extremists or only the richest in the state.
-Work to realize tax cuts for the middle class/working people and fight to increase
taxes on the top 15% to 20% of earners, everyone needs to pay their fair share.
-Protect Women’s reproductive health rights including the doctor’s & medical staff from adverse actions because they are doing their jobs and saving the lives of mothers
-Our towns are underfunded, I will bring funding to the area so that residents in the district have relief, options and the growth they desire.
I am a successful younger corporately retired Director of Regulatory Insurance Technology, small business owner, for decades I've been civically involved, working across the aisle because all people deserve fair representation and a chance to not only survive but thrive. I've lived in Eastern Connecticut and worked in CT my entire life. We are a union strong family with most areas of law and active retired military from Brigadier General to Staff Sergeant. www.merrycgarrett.com for State Senate 35th District.
State House District 61
East Granby, Suffield, Windsor Locks Candidates: Incumbent Republican Tami Zawistowski and Democrat Mike Malloy. If elected/re-elected, what would be your No. 1 priority/front burner issue?
Zawistowski: Affordability. The most pressing problem facing most Connecticut residents is the high cost of living. I was involved with crafting the 2017 budget that installed spending and borrowing caps, paid down state debt – and set the stage for the personal income tax cuts in the 2023 budget. I will continue the effort to rein in unnecessary spending, further stabilize the state budget and reduce the tax burden on our residents and employers.
Malloy: I would focus on the cost of living in CT, especially for our middle class and seniors. I will encourage prop-
erty tax reform through enhanced State funding for local education. I will endorse pursuing a serious plan to reduce utility costs through clean energy solutions, not the shortsighted agreements that have got us here. I would support meaningful tax rebates in the interim to those most impacted. If there is any undesignated surplus in the next few years, it should be focused on the middle class and the services that help those struggling the most financially.
Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
Zawistowski: I have received awards for my work defending local autonomy in zoning, pushing back on unfunded municipal mandates and passing a municipal option to increase tax abatements for volunteer first responders. I have also introduced and supported legislation to benefit veterans, seniors, small businesses and children and adults with autism. I look forward to continuing work on increasing public safety and requiring greater government transparency and accountability. For more information,
please visit my website at tamizforthe61st.com.
It has been an honor to represent the 61st District for the past 10 years. I look forward to continuing working on your behalf –being your voice in Hartford – with your vote on November 5th.
Malloy: I am a parent, a businessman, and a local political leader. I have built, sold, and continue to operate several successful businesses in Suffield, East Granby, and Enfield. I am currently the longest-serving member of the East Granby Board of Finance. I serve as the Chairman of the Board of Assessment Appeals and have served on the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Inland Wetlands Commission.
My unique real-world business and political experience will allow me to work within the Democratic Majority to help ensure the legislature works bipartisanly. I believe in progress through compromise. I can negotiate better results for our district than those we have received.
Tami Zawistowski Mike Malloy
Election 2024 Election 2024
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Continued from page 45
least half a percent each year. This gradual approach will provide immediate relief to families and businesses while ensuring sustainable revenue for essential services.
Candidates: Republican Bob Hendrick-son and Democrat John Santanella.
What do you feel is the issue for your constituents and/or biggest challenge for you?
Hendrickson: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the burden of excessive taxation, and this is what I intend to do about it. My plan begins with a targeted reduction of the state income tax by at
I will also advocate for the maintenance of the fiscal guardrails established in 2017, which have played a crucial role in stabilizing our budget. The political landscape, with a narrow Democratic majority in the House and a tied Senate, had demonstrated that bipartisan cooperation can effectively address our financial challenges, including the alarming $7.7 billion pension debt, the highest in the nation. Furthermore, attempts to dismantle these guardrails only threaten our fiscal responsibility and could lead to further tax increases. The recent budget surplus clearly indicates that Connecticut is overtaxing its residents. To combat this, we need balanced legislation that prioritizes the interests of the people, ensuring that we keep our taxes low while promoting economic growth and stability in our community. Electing representatives committed to these principles is essential for fostering a fairer and more prosperous future for all Enfield residents.
Santanella: The biggest issues facing
constituents here and Enfield aren’t much different than those issues facing middle class families around the state. They relate to affordable housing, affordable, childcare, and affordable healthcare.
Is there anything else you would like the voters to know about you?
Hendrickson: I want voters to know that my primary focus is on putting Enfield first. I believe in representing the interests of our community above all else. My commitment to reducing taxes, managing budgets responsibly, and supporting local families and businesses reflects my dedication to improving the quality of life for all residents.
I encourage everyone to consider the importance of strong, local representation that prioritizes our community's needs. Please vote for me on November 5th to be your next state representative for the 58th district. Together, we can create a brighter future for Enfield!
Santanella: My complete bio, work history and other information relevant to my campaign is available for voters to review at www.johnsantanella.org People can contact me with questions.
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State House District 58
Enfield
Bob Hendrickson John Santanella
Jane Garibay, D, House District 60
Len Walker, R, House District 60 Windsor, Windsor Locks
Ann Bonney, D, House District 53
Tammy Nuccio, R, House District 53 Ashford, Tolland, Vernon, Willington
Kevin Brown, D, House District 56
Brian Motola, R, House District 56 Vernon
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Police ‘No Shave’ effort to aid Cancer Foundation
SUFFIELD — In November, Suffield Police officers will be participating in No Shave CT to raise money to support the mission of the CT Cancer Foundation.
The funds raised benefit the CCF Cancer Patient Assistance Program to provide assistance to Connecticut cancer patients in support of their basic needs: rent/mortgage, utilities and food.
Cancer becomes a financial burden to so many every day. Jobs placed on hold; mortgages unpaid; increased medical co-pays, etc. Patients and their families should never have to worry about going hungry or being evicted from their homes during treatment.
For the entire month of November, Suffield officers will not shave. Can you support them with a donation? All donations will go to state cancer patients, including the four pediatric patients pictured in the composite photo at the right. Register at www.noshavect.org or contact team leaders Officer Alex Scata at (860)668-3870 or laura@ctcancerfoundation.org for questions about the website.
Landfill open for extended hours this fall
SUFFIELD — The Suffield landfill will be open for extended hours this fall on Sundays for residential leaf disposal only. No other items will be accepted during this time. Commercial loads of leaves are not accepted on these Sunday dates.
Residential permits will be required for entry into the landfill. Purchase a $25 yearly permit at the landfill. No permits will be sold on Sundays.
Sunday leaf disposal hours will be from noon to 4 p.m. on Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24.Leaves must be dumped loose. No bags of any kind are to be left in the disposal pile. Note that residential and commercial leaves are also accepted throughout the year during the landfill’s regular hours on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
From left: Justin, 14, from Norwich, battling a brain tumor; Rahim, 4, from Bristol, battling neuroblastoma; Emily, 3, from Derby, battling leukemia; Owen, 7, from Trumbull, also battling leukemia.
In On the News!
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