Fishing is not in my wheelhouse. Don’t ask me for advice on fishing. Even though I spent some childhood years in Windsor, Connecticut, I have no recollection of going to the shad derby or even touching a fishing rod. So why am I writing about fishing?
According to Google: Taking a kid fishing can be a metaphor for teaching someone a valuable skill or experience that will benefit them throughout their life, fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection with nature. But for me it was much more. In August of 1999, when my two daughters were pre-teen age, our family went to China Lake in Maine for a week’s vacation. This was the first time we stayed on a lake and not by the ocean, mountains or in a city. I was in a new element, so I quietly observed what the folks were doing at the resort. I saw some of the men leave after breakfast in their boats for a day of fishing, while the other men left for golf or just hung around. The women seemed to enjoy hanging around and socializing or planning shopping trips. The kids also liked to fish and did this on their meager little dock. For some reason, I felt compelled to rent myself a boat and take all the kids out to fish in the middle of the lake. The parents gave the okay and about 10 kids were signed up.
So off we went one morning. We had heard the wailing of loons a lot the night before and I felt good about the new day. The kids were excited. The boat was crowded. Expectations were high. We reached the target area and began to fish. Unfortunately, we lost a fishing pole in the lake and caught but one fish. I was a bit concerned if this wasn’t a great idea. When we got back though, it was like we had won the World Series! The joy and pride on the faces of those kids was unbelievable. I guess I could now say mission accomplished.
Later, I recalled a sermon by Reverend Dr. Wesley J. Evans, his last sermon preached at Second Baptist church in 1993. The sermon was titled “Take a Kid Fishing”. It summed up his theology and philosophy on life. Invest some time with kids and you won’t be disappointed. Now I know what he meant, firsthand. So, take a kid fishing or to a ball game or whatever and experience the joy this year.
Steve Smith Editor of the Month
We wish you a
I love this town, Suffield. Born and raised in the suburbs of Springfield, I never imagined enjoying life in a farm town. I was quick to change my tune when I moved here a decade ago. I have delighted in learning about Suffield’s past, visiting historic houses and cemeteries. I have reveled in Suffield's beauty, enjoying the Lewis Farm Bird Sanctuary, hiking at Sunrise Park, or simply strolling down Main Street. There is always something beautiful to see or do in this charming town I now call home.
Considered Opinions on Significant Issues
One appeal of Suffield is the quality of life while raising children in a small town. This is a town where children can walk downtown without the worries that face other parts of the world. This is a town that will provide our children with food during hard times. A town where “it takes a village” still has meaning. Between the town workers and many volunteers, the Suffield community has done an admirable job of making our town feel safe for all families. A prominent town institution that perpetuates the feeling of safety within the community is the Kent Memorial Library.
Lately, our library has come to be under attack by people with questionable intentions. They claim their purpose is to protect children, while spreading misinformation about our beloved library and implying that children have easy access to mature material. The ultimate goal is simple. Control. Kent Memorial Library is a public institution, and as such should represent all demographics. That means everyone, regardless of race, religion or gender identity.
Banning books is about as un-American as it gets. America is the Land of the Free. We, as American citizens should be free to access information, learn and expand our minds. Just as people shouted “freedom” in the face of mask and vaccine mandates, I will shout “freedom” to read and learn about genders, sex, and puberty. A public library is a vast resource for all available information, not a haven for one set of ideals.
As an American citizen who loves her country, I am heartbroken and sickened by the willingness to suppress information in our town. So many of our loved ones have served our country to prevent this from happening to our home, yet here it is on our doorstep. Suffield no longer feels safe for many residents, including children that are supposed to be the focus of protection. The American Dream of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness is quickly becoming a nightmare. We the People will not go quietly into the night.
Jennifer Herring
Editors note: In the interest of fairness, the Observer sought an opposing viewpoint from the affected party. At the time the paper went to print, a response had not been received.
By Lisa Trase
The Assessor’s Office would like to remind homeowners that the State and Local Elderly/Totally Disabled Homeowner’s Program filing period will end on Wednesday, May 15.
Any current recipient of the benefit who has received a letter from the Assessor’s office must reapply no later than May 15 in order to continue to receive the benefit.
New applicants must also file an application by that date.
This year’s maximum income allowed is $43,800, if single and $53,400, if married.
Proof of income for 2023 is needed. Please bring all the information to the Assessor’s Office. Income includes:
• Social Security Benefit Statement (1099 Form for 2024). This must be submitted if you and/or your spouse receive Social Security benefits.
• Federal Income Tax Return (If you file).
• If you do not file an income tax return, bring statements of 2023 taxable income -including Taxable Pensions, IRA’s, Interest, Dividends, Wages etc. Assessor’s Office Hours Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call the Assessor’s office at 860-668-3866. z
TOWN GOVERNMENT
May Commission Meetings
Please check the Town of Suffield website for time, location or schedule changes.
Conservation Comm.
Tue., May 13 & 27
7 p.m., Town Hall
Economic Dev. Comm.
Thu., May 15
8:30 a.m., Town Hall
Education, Board of Mon., May 5 & 19
6:30 p.m., SHS
Finance, Board of Mon., May 12
7 p.m., Town Hall
Fire Commission
Tue., May 13, 7 p.m. Fire Station, Ratley Road
Historic District Comm.
Mon., May 5
7:30 p.m., Town Hall
Housing Authority
Tue., May 13
6:30 p.m., Maple Court
KML Commission
Tue., May 13
7 p.m., Town Hall
Parks & Rec. Comm.
Wed., May 14
7 p.m., Town Hall
Permanent Bldg. Comm. Thu., May 15
7 p.m., Town Hall
P&Z Commission Mon., May 19
7 p.m., Town Hall
Police Commission Wed., May 28
7 p.m.
Police Station
Retirement Commission
Thu., May 8 5 p.m., Town Hall
Selectmen, Board of Wed., May 7 & 21
7 p.m., Town Hall
Social Service Comm. Fri., May 16
8:00 a.m., SCA office
WPCA Tue., May 13
7 p.m.
844 East St. South
Zoning Board of Appeals Tue., May 27
7 p.m., Town Hall
First Selectman’s Update
Colin Moll
Happy Spring! It has been a long, but productive, budget season, and I am happy to say that it is coming to a close. Our town departments have worked very hard over the last four months to bring forth a plan that remains fiscally responsible while also allowing the town to provide the quality services our residents have come to expect. The Board of Finance has approved the FY 25/26 Budget with an overall increase of 3.44%, a .78 increase to the mill rate.
The Selectman’s budget has an overall increase of 2.59%, $474,569
Major drivers to this year’s budget include:
Health insurance: increase of 20% over last year’s budgeted amount, just under $350,000.
This is due to an increase of major claims and half of the overall requested increase. For those unaware, the Town’s insurance that is provided to employees is self-funded. At a minimum, the cost to the Town per individual on each plan is around $24,000/year while family plans cost around $30,000/year. For any major claims, the Town is obligated to pay for the amount up to $200,000 which is when our stop-loss insurance kicks in and covers any amount over. Insurance is offered to most current
and retired employees up until Medicare/Medicaid becomes available.
Public Utilities: increase of $73,447
Public Utilities include trash collection, electricity, and the cost associated with fire hydrants.
Police Department: increase of $108,644
These increases include almost $90,000 in contractually obligated increases to unionized officers and smaller increases to the operating budget.
Public Works: increase of $42,230
Increases due to contractual wage increases and inflationary increases to maintenance line items.
Operating changes and savings include:
-Remove full-time (FT) Assistant to the DPW Director, merged with Executive Assistant to the First Selectman
-Remove full-time Rec and Sports Programmer that was added last year.
-Remove full-time Town Clerk position, added a parttime position which still leaves two overall F/T positions in the office
-Add part-time (PT) Prison Supervisor. We currently have one that oversees three prisoners in our Prisoner Work Program 3 days/week. This position will expand those work services to the entire week.
-Add two part-time Parks and Rec Event Coordinators to reduce overtime and coordinate and assist with programs and events
-Add part-time Administrative Assistant to the Fire Chief. That position will
work 10 hours/week
-Additional funding for Library books
-Additional funding to Community Service programming
-Additional training funds across departments
A Town Meeting to approve next year’s budget will be held on May 7 at 7 p.m. in the Middle School Auditorium.
The Board of Selectmen have recently approved the following and referred to a Town Meeting which will be held on a date to be determined in the summer:
-Right to Farm Ordinance
-Renewed leases of Town owned property to Nowak and Bielonko Farms
-Transfer of Phelps Road Cemetery to the Mountain Burying Ground Association
Some events in Town for the month of May include:
-Sustainable Suffield’s Town-Wide Tag Sale May 17 and 18. You can sign-up to have your house put on the tag sale map on our Town website.
-Memorial Day Parade and Service. Step-off starts at 9:15 a.m.
-Rotary Day of Service: Join the Suffield Rotary Club at Hilltop Farm May 17, 8 a.m.
-Veteran’s Breakfast May 3, 9-11 a.m.
-First Selectman’s Coffee Hour is May 2 and 16 from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Café Barista Don’t forget to check out the spring and summer events and programs held by Community Services and the Library.
Enjoy spring and as always, my door is always open at Town Hall. z
Captain’s Corner:
By Suffield Fire Department
Captain Ron Carlson
Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Safety
The Town of Suffield has an area of 42.2 Square Miles. Much of the Town is residential, farming and open/natural areas. A residential area next to an open and/or natural area is called a Wildland Urban Interface. Though we have seen this term applied to many other United States areas, it also applies to New England. Please consider the information below to help protect your homes and out-buildings.
• Immediate Zone (The building and 3 to 5 feet around it):
-Keep roofs and gutters free of dead leaves, debris and pine needles.
-Replace or repair loose or missing shingles or roof tiles.
-Move anything that can burn, like flammable plants/ weeds, leaves, needles and firewood piles, from exterior walls.
-Examine under decks and clean out any combustible debris.
• Intermediate Zones (Area 5-30 feet from the Immediate Zone):
-Keep lawn and native grasses mowed to four inches.
-Remove ladder fuels (vegetation under trees).
-Prune trees 6-10 feet from the ground.
• Extended Zone (Area 30 to 100 feet from the Intermediate Zone):
-Clean out ground litter and debris.
-Remove dead plants and trees.
-Remove plants and trees from around storage sheds and outbuildings.
• A home within one mile of an open/natural area is in the Ember Zone
-When strong winds accompany a fire, sparks can
SUFFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT
col x 2.5
fly well in front of the fire and initiate fire spread.
• Assure your address is visible from the road and that your driveway is acces-
sible for fire and emergency vehicles to reach your house and out-buildings.
Information Source: USFA/FEMA.GOV z
Seeking Candidates for the 2025 Municipal Election
By Krystal Holmes
Town elections will be held on November 4, but the process of finding candidates is beginning now. Serving on a town board or commission is a rewarding experience and necessary to keep the town progressing forward. You have what it takes. Your time would be much appreciated. Boards and commissions are comprised of members of all political affiliations who work together in the best interest of the town.
The slate of candidates is typically endorsed by each party in July. Candidates can also petition to have their names placed on the ballot. Unaffiliated voters can be endorsed by the Democrat or Republican Town Committees. All interested residents are encouraged to consider this opportunity and send a brief bio/resume to the chairperson of either the Democratic Town Committee: Tom Frenaye, frenaye@pcnet.com
Continued on Page 6
Compiled by Beth Chafetz Space Day – May 2
“There are no passengers on Spaceship Earth. We are all crew.”
– Marshall McLuhan
“Who are we? We find that we live on an insignificant planet of a humdrum star lost in a galaxy tucked away in some forgotten corner of a universe in which there are far more galaxies than people.”
– Carl Sagan Teacher Appreciation Week
– first week of May
“Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.”
– Japanese proverb
Food For Thought
jobs in the world.”
– Thomas Hauser
Armed Forces Day May 17
“Armed Forces Day, above all, honors the dedicated individuals who wear the uniforms of their country. Each serviceman, wherever he may be, whatever his task, contributes directly and importantly to the defense of the nation. The task of each one is the task of all the armed forces: to protect the freedoms which underlie the greatness of America.”
– General Earle G. Wheeler
“A teacher’s greatest lesson isn’t found in the curriculum—it’s found in the way they make students believe they matter.”
“School Nurse – putting on band aids, stopping a bloody nose, holding on to ice packs, giving out a change of clothes, tirelessly healing all day long.”
– Unknown
National Pet Week – first week of May
“The whole glorious history of animals with people is about joy and connection. It’s about loving this creature and letting this creature love you.”
– Jon Katz
“Animals keep you company when you’re really lonely. It helps because when you have a friend around who always likes you no matter what – it’s harder to feel bad or down.”
– Aaron Carter
National School Nurse Day
– May 7
“Nurse – Just another word to describe a person strong enough to tolerate everything and soft enough to understand everyone.”
– Bethany Goralski
– pinterest
First Newspaper Cartoon in U.S. – May 9, 1754
“The strip ‘The Yellow Kid,’ created by Richard Outcault, is often cited as the first true comic strip. It was initially published in 1895 in New York World. Within a decade, long-running cartoons like ‘Gasoline Alley,’ ‘Popeye,’ and ‘Little Orphan Annie’ were appearing in newspapers across the country. By the 1930s, full-color standalone sections dedicated to comics were common in newspapers.
“The middle part of the 20th century is considered the golden age of newspaper comics. Detective ‘Dick Tracy’ debuted in 1931; ‘Brenda Starr’—the first cartoon strip written by a woman—was first published in 1940; ‘Pea-
Pilgrim Barber Shop
CT 06078 • 860-668-0170
Moved to 35 High Street, Suffield, CT across from Coldwell Banker Realty as of April 1. 860-668-0170 or 413-244-7679
nuts’ and ‘Beetle Bailey’ each arrived in 1950. Other popular comics include ‘Doonesbury’ (1970), ‘Garfield’ (1978), ‘Bloom County’ (1980), and ‘Calvin and Hobbes"’ (1985).
“Today, strips like ‘Zits’ (1997) and ‘Non Sequitur’ (2000) entertain readers, as well as ongoing classics like ‘Peanuts.’" – thoughtco.com
Mother’s Day – May 11
“Thus far the mighty mystery of motherhood is this: How is it that doing it all feels like nothing is ever getting done.”
– Rebecca Woolf
“To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.” – Barbara Johnson
“Why don’t kids understand their nap is not for them, but for us?”
– Alyson Hannigan Limerick Day -May 12
“There was a young belle
of old Natchez
Whose garments were always in patchez.
When comments arose
On the state of her clothes, She replied, "When Ah itchez, Ah scratchez."
– Ogden Nash
“There was a young woman named Bright, Whose speed was much faster than light. She set out one day, In a relative way, And returned on the previous night.” – parade.com
National Police Week –third week of May
“My heroes are those who risk their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place - police, firefighters and members of our armed forces.”
– Sidney Sheldon
“Being a good police officer is one of the most difficult, dangerous, idealistic
“Armed Forces Day, and the Memorial Day weekend that follows, is a time to honor, remember and recognize those who serve and have served our country, as well as those who have died in service. As we reflect, let's not forget the many sacrifices made at home as well in support of our men and women in uniform.”
– Chuck Norris
Memorial Day – May 26
"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."
– Ronald Reagan
"As we set today aside to honor and thank our veterans, let us be mindful that we should do this every day of the year and not just one."
– Beth Pennington z
Repair Cafe a Success; Next Up is June 28
By Tony Peterson
Volunteer fixers at Sustainable Suffield’s first Repair Cafe evaluated 55 broken household items, according to the task force’s co-chair, Anna-Kristin Daub-Murphy. “They fixed 38 - or 70% - and partially repaired five. They were unable to repair 12,” she said.
Suffield Senior Center hosted the event on March 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“We are proud of our ten volunteer experts whose overall 70% success rate compares to the 65% success rate documented by Repair Cafe International for 10,391 repairs they’ve tracked worldwide this year.”
Daub-Murphy said that townspeople who brought in broken items were pleased with the experience. Even residents whose items couldn’t be repaired praised the fixers’ efforts. She noted that in some cases, burnedout motors and other issues made the items unrepairable.
She recognized and applauded the volunteer fixers. Dorian Taylor mended clothes. Frank Ludorf, Brian Caron, Gerry LaPlante and Frani Lenonard made elec-
March 29.
trical repairs. Her husband, Shawn Murphy, and Jim Baker sharpened knives and yard tools. Gerry LaPlante and Dan Kruger fixed bikes. Ernie Begin and his wife Libby repaired furniture, ceramics and appliances.
She said Sustainable Suffield was also grateful to the Senior Center for providing a clean, comfortable space and coffee for the event. According to Repair Cafe International, Repair Cafes originated in the Netherlands in 2009 and are held in nearly 3,500 locations and over 50 countries worldwide. Daub-Murphy said the Suffield Cafe adhered to the recommendations of the international group. “Also, before launching our first
Cafe, our members visited a Repair Cafe in Mansfield, Connecticut, which has been operating for 11 years, to gain a better understanding of how they work. Later, we spoke to people running Cafes in Wilton, Connecticut, and Natick, Massachusetts.”
She said Sustainable Suffield’s next Repair Cafe is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Suffield Senior Center. “We ask that residents again bring their broken household items for repair, so we can keep them from the landfill,” she said. “We’ve streamlined the admission process to reduce wait time, and repairs are on a first come, first served basis.” z
FREE Food Scrap Bins and Backyard Composters
By Sustainable Suffield
Whether you want to join Suffield’s growing food scrap collection movement or start composting in your backyard for a planned summer garden, Sustainable Suffield can help.
We have three-gallon, ventilated food scrap collection bins for countertops
Continued on Page 14
Photo by Anna-Kristin Daub-Murphy
Volunteer fixer Ernie Begin, accompanied by his daughter, Addie, shown repairing a chair at Sustainable Suffield’s first Repair Cafe on
Photo credit: Tony Peterson
Left over from previous Sustainable Suffield initiatives, the bins and composters are new.
May at First Church of Christ, UCC
By Amber Bigley
First Church of Christ, Congregational UCC of Suffield, CT is an open and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. First Church welcomes all to join us in faith and worship Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m., in-person or through our YouTube livestream.
No matter who you are, or where you are on life's journey, YOU are welcome here. Come as you are, for this is God’s house—a house of prayer for all people, and God welcomes each one who comes. First Church welcomes all new attendees, and those who have attended many years, to join us for worship for one minute, one Sunday, one month, one year…whatever calls to you!
Rev. Diann continues to run a dedicated and vibrant Wednesday morning Bible study group at 10:00 a.m. each week via Zoom; contact us for more information.
Spring has sprung at First Church!
Sunday, May 4, we gather for 10:00 a.m. worship with the sacrament of communion. Our youth who have been taking the journey of exploring their faith this past year will celebrate the Rite of Confirmation. The First Church of Christ and its congregation are proud of each and every one of them!
Two First Church youth will receive the Deacon Service Award. The Diaconate of First Church of Christ awards the Deacon Service Award to high school grad-
uating seniors who have consistently served First Church for a period of years with plans to continue their education. First Church Diaconate is delighted to present this year’s Deacon Awards to Riley Walton and Kathleen Remington. Their future is bright!
Our Blessing Box is located right in front of First Church on High Street and is open to our neighbors and community members to “take what you need; leave what you can”. We encourage our community to donate; please do not donate perishable foods or foods requiring refrigeration.
First Church hosts support groups in our building including Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous. Contact us for the full list of meeting information.
Questions and general inquiries should be directed to office@fcsuffield.org. Pastoral needs can be sent to senior@fcsuffield.org. First Church staff is here to assist you or provide information as needed; God Bless. Email the church office with questions, general inquiries, pastoral needs, or to arrange an in-person appointment at First Church.
May the warmth of God’s blossoming creation surround you today, and every day. Blessings!
One of the best moments in the life of the parish is when our young people receive their First Holy Communion! We begin the month of May welcoming the little ones to the Table of the Lord on the First Saturday. Then the following day the children and their families will share in the May Crowning. A unique devotion to our Blessed Mother in the month dedicated to her in the Roman Catholic calendar. All our invited to join us later in the month for an Outdoor Rosary service on Tuesday, May 13 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Blessed Mother Garden area near Father Ted Hall. In case of rain, we will gather in the church.
Later in the month, we
honor all who have given their lives in service to our nation with our annual Memorial Day Mass at St. Joseph Cemetery on Hill Street (or at the church if it rains). We will begin at 8 a.m. Also, that weekend at the cemetery, American flags will be placed on the graves of all who served in our armed forces.
All through the month, we are continuing our celebration of the Easter Season, ending the month with the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord on May 29, forty days after Easter. Masses for the Holy Day will be at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Speaking of the Mass schedules, the end of May will be the end of the current weekend Mass schedule with
a Saturday Vigil at 4 p.m. and three Sunday Masses at 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Beginning Sunday, June 1 the Sunday Mass Schedule will be 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. We had this schedule last summer and it worked out well. People enjoyed the increased attendance which enabled them not only to connect with God through the Mass but also with friends and neighbors they had not seen in a while. Going forward it will remain throughout the year to conform to the new policies of the Archdiocese of Hartford. For more information, stop by the church or visit us on Facebook or our website: http://www.sacredheartct.com.
Have a blessed month! z
Flags, Flowers, Knitting Prayers at WSCC
By Pastor Denise Peterson and Lucille Miller
The West Suffield Congregation is putting up our flags. They were given to us by the family of Benjamin Franklin Yates (WWI veteran) and Albert P. Yates (WWII and Korean War); both men were from Suffield. The flags were presented to the families; they had originally been draped across their caskets.
It was an honor to receive those flags. We put them up for Memorial Day and Veterans Day as a sign of our support for the military. One of our active service parishioners will be hanging the flags in a gesture of gratitude for their service, bravery, and sacrifice. We invite you to remember those who served and who we have lost, as you drive by the church and see them.
On Cinco de Mayo, well,
actually on Quatro de Mayo, we will be having a Cinco de Mayo party at the church after our 10 a.m. service. Our coffee hour will be decorated with bright flowers, and we will eat tacos, chili and a three-layer dip while we sit and socialize. Wearing bright colors and flowers in your hair is encouraged. Finally, on May 18, we will be celebrating a vital ministry in our church: Wrapped in Prayer - A Service Honoring the Prayer Shawl Ministry. Conceived by our Head Deacon, Lucille Miller, the ministry has delivered over thirty shawls since its inception two years ago. Lucille writes: We have a group of knitters and crocheters who meet once a month. As we knit or crochet these items in our church group and at home, we pray for comfort and healing for the recipi-
ent. During our meeting, we pray as a group as each new shawl is made and then the shawls are brought into the sanctuary on Communion
Continued on Page 11
Photo by Pastor Denise Peterson John Nielsen: Korean War Veteran, current Guardian Angel
Second Baptist News
From a press release
Vacation Bible School is ComingKindness Matters!
Kindness Matters VBS is June 23-27, 9 a.m. to noon, at Second Baptist Church, 100 North Main Street.
Kids will learn all about kindness through the stories and teachings of Jesus. The Bible is filled with verses that bring joy, hope, and encouragement to our hearts. These scriptures remind us of God’s love, promises, and the happiness that comes from walking in His ways.
During Vacation Bible School we will introduce a new scripture each day and feature numerous Bible stories illustrating kindness, including the Good Samaritan, the story of Ruth and Naomi, and Jesus's teachings and actions, all emphasizing compassion, empathy, and helping those in need.
During the week we will make a kindness box and paint kindness rocks to share with the community.
We have all kinds of new songs to learn and will have a special snack and outdoor games each day.
Register o nlinehttps://docs.google.com/ forms/d/1UzS1j6xJ -
WSCC News
Continued from page 10
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Activities scheduled in May at Second Baptist Church include:
• Saturday, May 10 - Soup Kitchen Ministry – Serving a meal on the 2nd Saturday of the month for anyone in need at the Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen at South Congregational Church in Springfield, Massachusetts.
• Monday, May 12 - Special Needs Fellowship – 6:30 p.m. –Monthly outreach program for our friends with cognitive limitations to give them a safe environment for crafts, singing, and fellowship meeting on the 2nd Monday of each month.
• Tuesday, May 13American Red Cross Blood Drive – Noon- 5 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. For an appointment, please visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767).
• Wednesday, May 28Pub Theology – March 26, 6 p.m. at Three Figs Restaurant. Let’s discuss topics involving faith, meaning, identity, culture, politics, and more! Come bring your questions and your curiosity and pull up a chair.
Traffic Island Beautification Sponsorship Program
By Chad Kuzontkoski, Suffield Economic Development Specialist
The Town of Suffield is proud to introduce a new Traffic Island Beautification Sponsorship Program aimed at enhancing the look and feel of two key intersections in town: Mountain Road and Main Street, and Bridge Street and Main Street. This initiative is designed to make these high-traffic areas more visually appealing with seasonal landscaping and decorative features that reflect the character and charm of our community.
A more beautiful town not only uplifts residents, it also helps attract new visitors and potential businesses. When people pass through Suffield, first impressions matter. By improving the appearance of these central spots, we’re investing in a more vibrant, welcoming community.
ing visibility at high-traffic locations, as well as additional acknowledgment through an article and social media.
In addition, members of the public are also encouraged to contribute to the beautification effort. While individual donors will not receive on-site recognition, they will have the option to be named in a future article thanking all who supported the program—or they may remain anonymous if they prefer. Every donation helps bring the vision to life.
Please make checks payable to Town of Suffield with “Traffic Island Sponsorship” in the memo line. Payments can be mailed or dropped off at:
Town of Suffield Economic Development Office 83 Mountain Rd. Suffield CT 06078
Rose Marie Andresen March 14, Age 93
Maureen A. Welch March 20, Age 84
Gary Wayne Adams March 20, Age 72
Ralph E. Garside March 21, Age 81
Mark L. Stewart March 21, Age 62
JoAnne Elizabeth Simmons March 25, Age 82
Mark S. Waterman March 26, Age 70
Dennis B. Fisher March 29, Age 72
Janet M. (Trotter) Sutton April 6. Age 72
Sunday to be consecrated by the Congregation, who add their prayers and blessings to them. We know our prayers are felt by those who receive these prayer shawls and blankets as they have told us that these garments are very special. They have said they feel the warmth and prayers as they wear the shawl or blanket and they are comforted. We usually don’t know who will receive the prayer shawl as we are knitting, but we always pray for comfort and healing. Sometimes the prayer shawl finds the person.
Additional information for all service/program opportunities at the church are available on secondbaptistsuffield.org as well as our Facebook and Instagram sites.
The Second Baptist Church Telephone: (860) 668-1661
e-mail: Office@SecondBaptistSuffield.org z
Grant Landscaping
Blessings on your day. z
Landscape Services
Weekly Lawn Maintenance
Spring & Fall Cleanups
Mulch & Stone, Pruning
Shrub & Tree Removal
24-hour Snow Plowing & Sanding
Bruce Grant PO Box 44 Su eld, CT 06078
860-668-6270
As part of this initiative, we are inviting residents and local businesses to become sponsors of the program:
For Residents:
• • ($Any)
For Businesses:
• • Bronze ($100)
• • Silver ($250)
• • Gold ($500)
Business sponsors will receive public recognition and their name on a sign placed on the sponsored island, giving them ongo-
To learn more or become a sponsor, please contact Chad Kuzontkoski, Economic Development Specialist, at ckuzontkoski@suffieldct.gov. Let’s work together to keep Suffield beautiful, inviting, and thriving. z
Delores (Balesano) Kelly April 7, Age 95
100 Years Ago in Suffield
Selected from the pages of the Windsor Locks Journal and lightly annotated by Wendy Taylor of Kent Memorial Library.
May 1
A forest fire…destroyed about seventy-five acres of woodland at West Suffield Mountain…Volunteers with teams and tractors with plow attachments fought the blaze. The loss of timber was about $2,500.
May 8
Fire Warden James N. Root says that the fire reported on the West Suffield mountain last week was one that he gave a permit for and that only grass and brush land was burned over. The men and tractors that were on hand were for the purpose of keeping the fire under control. It did make a lot of smoke and gave a number of people that impression that there was something burning.
The selectmen have posted notices forbidding the riding of bicycles upon the sidewalks in the center of the town.
An epidemic of measles has broken out at the Boston University and Richard Graham of this place is one of the victims.
A balloon dance will be given in Academy hall.
May 15
James C. Kent, a well -known resident of Hill street, celebrated his 80th birthday, Tuesday. Mr. Kent… was one of eleven children and is the oldest living member of his family… The occasion of his birthday had been anticipated for some time by Mr. Kent and he celebrated by walking from his home to the city hall in Springfield, a distance of ten miles and returning, making the hike a good twenty miles.
May 22
The annual meeting of the Stony Brook Camp Association was held …The association comprises several men and their families of this locality who have developed find camping grounds on the banks of Stony Brook in Boston Neck where they have already built four cottages and a cook house, and plans made for more building
by the members, along with the tenting arrangements that several of them have there each summer.
A large dam has been built across the brook at that spot which makes a good bathing and boating pool that is amongst the pleasure of the out-door life enjoyed there by the members each summer.
It is reported that the fruit crop promises to be a good one. There is also promise of a good hay crop.
George Martinez & Son have been remodeling the lower part of the frame house attached to the north part of their store and have converted it into more store space…The new room is not yet ready for occupancy, but will be utilized soon.
John F Merrill, sexton at Woodlawn cemetery, has reported that damage to the amount of several hundred dollars has been done in that place… Several headstones have been knocked over and other damage done.
May 29
The program for the ninety-first anniversary of the Suffield school has been completed.
The village Committee is making preparations for the new pumping engine voted by the village… The doorways at the hose house are being enlarged so that the trucks can be pulled out without delay.
Arrangements are being made to move the Hotel Smith building from Depot street [Mountain road] to a place directly back of the Kent Library [now the Kent Legree Library], on property belonging to the Suffield School [now the Suffield Academy], where it will be used as dormitory rooms.
The ladies of the Third Baptist church will give a baked ham dinner…on Saturday (Memorial Day) from 12 to 6 p. m.
An epidemic of measles has broken out among the school children of the town.
Mrs. E Clara Loomis has opened her home here for the summer. z
A Moment in Time
Old Photos Invited from Our Readers
Suffield Historical Society
By Sara Zak
April is always busy at the King House Museum & Barn as the Historical Society prepares to open for the season. However, there has been an exceptional level of excitement for this year's opening day on May 3. Most of the energy has been fueled by an overwhelming response by town residents, past and present, to participate in "Artists of Suffield," a unique event celebrating the intersection of art and history in our community. This event, detailed in a separate article, holds a special significance for the King House Museum as it showcases the artistic talent within our community. Additionally, the Society has been entertaining historical architects who will be submitting bids to conduct our long-awaited Condition As-
sessment and HVAC Feasibility Study. Opening Day and the contractor's selection for that project coincide closely with an auspicious date in King House history, May 4, 1985, the day the King House Museum re-opened after a devastating fire on Dec. 30, 1983.
Many Suffield residents may not be aware of or remember that fire, which caused so much damage that the Society had to seek a variance from the Planning and Zoning Commission to rebuild the historic House. The ribbon-cutting ceremony 40 years ago was a celebration of the commitment of our community to maintain a significant piece of Suffield's past. The King House's rich history and cultural significance testify to our shared heritage. Similarly, the upcoming Con-
dition Assessment is the first major step toward restoring the House to stand proudly for another century, preserving our town’s history for future generations. The Condition Assessment, which the State Historic Preservation Office requires to apply for a restoration grant, will help the Board of Trustees plan for the coming years. The chosen architectural firm will conduct an assessment of all the systems and infrastructure of the House over the summer. It will result in a prioritized list of repairs or improvements needed to meet the purpose of the building and current standards. The final report will provide the Board with information critical to long-term maintenance and Continued on Page 14
This picture is from the Delphia H. Clark Photo Collection. Her notes say this is the home of S. K. Sikes and Carriage Shop. The 1880 Census has Seth K. Sikes, age 28, Carriage maker, Minnie M. Sikes, wife aged 26 and Elizabeth M. Sikes, Mother aged 54, all born in Connecticut. This house was about where PeoplesBank is today.
By Jackie Hemond
1. William Drake, a “man whom everyone liked” was the manufacturer of the “famous” Drake hand-made cigars. He was a traveling salesman. Another term for that profession in the late 1800s was….
a. Borler
b. Sandesman
c. Drummer
2. John Douglass Gallup who was 94 when he died in 1915, was reportedly the oldest man in Suffield at the time. He was a successful entrepreneur. What did he do?
a. He bought land and built a picnic grove with amusements on the bank of the Connecticut River in Agawam.
b. He built the largest warehouse used to store ice harvested from Lake Congamond.
c. He started the trolley service which ran through Suffield.
3. What was the Convention Army?
a. Union soldiers from the North in the Civil War who wore the conventional blue uniforms.
b. Prisoners of war in the Revolutionary War.
c. French soldiers who came to the aid of the Americans in the Revolutionary War.
10. a. and b. are correct. The munitions stockpile was in Concord and John Hancock and Samuel Adams were in Lexington. z
9. c. eH was one of the post riders who delivered the news that the British were -attack ing Lexington and Concord, Mass.
8. c. eH was a famous -pho tographer. He was known as a conceptual artist who -trans formed camera work in the 1970s and 1980s.
Mostly Suffield Trivia
4. British General John Burgoyne surrendered to the American General Horatio Gates at Saratoga, the first triumph for the colonists in the American Revolutionary War. What were the terms of surrender in the Articles of Convention?
a. The defeated army would be freed in Canada, after promising not to return to fight again in the war, upon pain of death.
b. The defeated army would repair Fort Ticonderoga which would become their prison.
c. The defeated army would be shipped back to England on the promise of not returning to fight against American soldiers again during this conflict.
5. June 5, 1917 was one of those National Something Day. What was it?
a. Woman’s Suffrage Day
b. National Registration Day
c. National Buffalo Bill Day
6. In 1982, Connecticut passed the nation’s first “Lemon Law.” What did it do?
a. It imposed a tariff on lemons.
b. It removed sales tax from all food, including lemons.
c. It provided consumer protection for automobile buyers.
7. Ann Corio lived in town for several years. She became famous and appeared on the Johnny Carson show twice. Why was she famous?
a. She was the model for Rosie the Riveter, a famous World War II poster.
b. She was the Queen of Burlesque.
c. She was one of the top ten female spies during World War II.
8. Robert Cumming was another famous person who lived for a time in Suffield. What was he famous for?
a. He was an actor starring in horror movies.
b. He was the senator who challenged Joe McCarthy during hearings in which McCarthy alleged that Communists had infiltrated multiple sectors in the country.
c. He was a famous photographer.
9. Isaac Bissell had an important job in April 1775. What was it?
a. He was the Captain of the Suffield militia that responded to the call for arms from Lexington at the start of the Revolutionary War.
b. He was the warden of Newgate Prison, soon to be a prison for British sympathizers.
c. He was one of the post riders who delivered the news that the British were attacking Lexington and Concord, Mass.
10. Why did the British attack Lexington and Concord in April 1775?
a. British General Thomas Gage ordered a raid to seize
Historical Society
Continued from page 13
budget planning.
The Society is sponsoring several other events at the King House during May. There will be an Antiques Appraisal Day on May 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $5 per item. On May 17, there will be a Plein Air Painting Class on the lawn from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $75. More details are available on the Events page of the Suffield Historical Soci-
military stores, ammunition, and weapons that the colonists were reportedly stockpiling in Concord.
b. The British wanted to capture John Hancock and Samuel Adams who were staying in Lexington.
c. The British were not intending to attack Concord or Lexington, but instead were heading to Acton where the munitions stockpile was actually stored.
6. c. It provided -consum er protection for automobile buyers.
5. b. National Registration Day. By 9 p.m. local time, all American male residents -(re gardless of their citizen status) between the ages of 21 to 30, were required to register for possible military service or face arrest and up to one year of imprisonment.
4. c. eyTh would be shipped back to England on the -prom ise of not returning to fight against American soldiers again in this conflict.
7. b heS was the Queen of Burlesque, a stripper and -ac tress. She wrote, directed and produced a Broadway play called This Was Burlesque which was a major hit.
Answers
3. b risonersP of war in the Revolutionary War. At the start of their defeat, there were about 4,200 prisoners; almost half were Hessian -mercenar ies. They were accompanied by about 1,000 women and -chil dren.
2. a. eH bought land on the bank of the Connecticut River in Agawam. In 1870, he built a picnic grove on the land with pavilions and amusements. Gallup provided a ferry -ser vice to the grove with his two steamships The Mayflower and the River Belle making it a popular destination. Called Gallup’s Grove, it was the -pre decessor of Riverside Park, now known as Six Flags
1. c. Drummer. A borler made coarse cloth for woolen clothing. A sandesman is a -per son employed at a water works.
ety website.
On Thursday, May 22, curator Christine Ritok will talk about Dr. Mason Fitch Cogswell (1761-1830), a physician born in Connecticut, who spent most of his career in Hartford County, and is best known today as one of the founders of the American School for the Deaf. He helped his friend, renowned American portrait painter Ralph Earl (1751-1801), avoid debtors' prison by serving as his court-appointed guardian, making possible Earl's series of extraordinary portraits of prominent Connecticut citizens. Cogswell pioneered cataract surgery in the United States and was the first American doctor to tie a carotid artery successfully. But it is his daily life as a practicing physician, as documented in his day books in the collection of the Connecticut Museum of Culture & History, that best shed light on the practice of medicine in New England at the end of the 18th and in the early 19th century. The content of these day books and what they reveal about daily life will be the focus of this talk. z
Bins and Composters
Continued from page 8
and 80-gallon backyard composters for FREE to Suffield residents.
Get the bins from Kris Lambert, assistant to First Selectman Colin Moll, on the second floor of the Town Hall. She also has bundles of compostable 3 gallon BioBags for free. You can also dump food scraps loosely into the dumpster or collect them in paper gro-
cery bags for deposit in the dumpster. Pick up a new backyard composter at the landfill. No permit is required. The composter measures 33” tall by 33” wide at its largest diameter and comes in four pieces for easy assembly. It has a screw-locking lid, a sliding door at the bottom to retrieve compost and plastic hold-down pegs. It weighs 16 lbs.
While you may deposit fish, meat, oil and dairy products in the countertop bin for disposal in the town dumpster, don’t put those items in the backyard composter. They can attract animals. Food scraps from the town dumpster are mixed with cow manure at anaerobic digesters on area farms to create energy, liquid fertilizer and animal bedding. Bin and composter quantities are limited, so if you’re interested, don’t delay. z
SVAA Honors Some of Its Most Deserving
By Jay Presser, Vice President of the SVAA
On March 22, as it approaches its fiftieth year of operation, the Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association Annual Awards Banquet was held to celebrate all of those who contribute to the success of an organization which serves the town so well, and to identify a few individuals for special awards. Once again serving as MC, Chief John Spencer began by recognizing various committees that have reached some important milestones of the organization this past year, including the Clinical Care Committee, that keeps the organization of the leading edge of Emergency Medical Services care. Also recognized was the Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Committee, which has not only paved the way for the use of an Advanced EMT, which with additional special training can perform even more critical services. Not only has this made the SVAA a leader in the advancement of Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, but the committee also successfully advocated for changes to state regulations that allow for enhanced use of AEMTs across the state.
In a similar vein, longtime member Steven Pedneault, working with his son (and the Zak award winner described below) led the charge for changes on a state and regional level, which allow EMTs to do supraglottic placements. The procedure opens the upper airway, allowing a person to breathe when there is an airway obstruction. Allowing trained EMTs to perform the procedures allows them to improve airway management
and, therefore, patient outcomes.
After dinner the meeting turned to recognizing many extraordinary individuals, primarily volunteers, who dedicate their time and effort to serve our community. With apologies to some award winners not included in this article the “Lifetime Achievement Award” went to Marie Bliss, who was apparently surprised that her family was able to attend covertly, to celebrate her. Bliss has been with SVAA for twenty-five years, most of them as a paramedic. She not only handles numerous calls, but she is also a mentor and instructor to countless EMTs, and community members learning CPR, First Aid, and Stop the Bleed. She has long been the individual most recognized as making sure our volunteers and others feel appreciated, organizing picnics, trips to Yard Goat games, the Thunderbirds’ Hometown Heroes night, and the banquet itself.
The Chris Schmeck Service Award is awarded to an individual who has consistently demonstrated performance to enhance the SVAA organization. The award was given to Steven Pedneault who, as noted, was instrumental in getting state approval for EMTs to perform a critical task, improving services for the SVAA and throughout the state.
The Perreault Award is given to any member other than the Chief of Service or the President of the Or-
ganization, who demonstrates service above and beyond the ordinary. Receiving this award was Christopher Johnston, who played a pivotal role expanding the role of AEMTs statewide
The Zak Awarded is presented to a member who has gone above and beyond, who stands as a leader, role model and a person of exceptional commitment. This year’s recipient, Justin Pedneault, has been involved with the organization for thirteen years, starting with the organization’s Explorer Program, volunteers as a paramedic and was selected by members to serve on the Board of Directors. In his “spare time” he was trained, and recently hired, by Life Star as a Flight Nurse/Paramedic.
The Directors’ Award, which is decided and awarded solely by the SVAA Board of Directors, was awarded to both Lorriane Nutini and Maha Maria.
The Officers Award goes to an individual who, through participation in standard operational activities, contributes to the welfare and success of the organization. It was awarded to Tracy Whelen. The Rising Star Award, awarded to a new member rising quickly through the ranks and stands out among their peers, went to Riley Bevis, while the appropriately named “Dependability Award” went to Jacob Audet.
Don Miner was recognized and warmly applauded for his incredible thirty-five years of Service, while Jackie Guzie was recognized for making one thousand calls.
Honored for the greatest number of ambulance hours went to Jennifer Michalman (in-town) and Cameron Wood (out of town). z
Photo by Amy Reay
l-r Chief John Spencer with Don Miner who was honored for his 35 years of service.
Photo by Amy Reay
Chief John Spencer with the Chris Schmeck Service Award winner
Stephen Pedneault
Photo by Amy Reay
l-r Chief John Spencer with Lifetime Achievement Award winner Marie Bliss and Jackie Guzie who was recognized for making 1,000 calls.
Mail Carriers
“Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive
On Saturday, May 10, your mail carrier will pick up donations left by your mailbox, during their regular route. All donations will benefit SCA’s Food Pantry. We are most in need of paper goods, hygiene products, and snack items. Thank you, Suffield!
Meals on Wheels
SCA is actively enrolling new participants in Meals on Wheels. Recipients must be at least 60 years of age and be considered homebound to qualify. SCA volunteers deliver the meals that are prepared off-site by the Community Renewal Team (CRT) in Hartford. Participation is free although donations for the meals can be made to CRT.
Two SCA Scholarship/ Award Applications still open until May 5: James F. Coggins, Jr. Community Service AwardOpen to Applicants!
In memory of our late volunteer and Board member, James F. Coggins, Jr., Suffield Community Aid (SCA) offers a $1,500 award to a graduating Suffield high school senior who demonstrates
Suffield Community Aid
selflessness, generosity, and concern for the Suffield community through their volunteer activities. Jim was highly engaged and passionate about the Suffield community and neighboring towns. Applicants for this award must live in Suffield but do not need to attend Suffield High School for consideration (e.g., may attend Suffield Academy, Loomis Chaffee, etc.). Applicants are required to submit a 500-word (max.) essay supporting their selection to SCA at 450 South St. Suffield, CT 06078 or by email at maryc@suffieldcommunityaid.org. The deadline to apply is Monday May 5, by midnight.
Suffield Community Aid
“Forward Focus” Scholarship
Created in 2024, the SCA Board of Directors established this $1,500 scholarship to offer graduating Suffield High School seniors financial support as they pursue job and educational goals post-graduation. Applicants must live in Suffield but do not need to attend Suffield High School for consideration (e.g., may attend Suffield Academy, Loomis Chaffee, etc.). This needs-based scholarship is offered to seniors who have committed to a trade or vocational school, two or fouryear college, or other identified job readiness program. Applicants are required to submit a 250-word (max.)
essay supporting their selection to SCA or by email at maryc@suffieldcommunityaid.org. The deadline to apply is Monday, May 5, by midnight.
Seasonal Programs: Renter’s Rebate Program for Elderly or Disabled Residents:
The State provides a reimbursement program for renters who are elderly or disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits. SCA is now taking applications!
Does Your Child Want to Attend Camp but Costs are TOO High?
Summer is right around the corner! SCA has funding available to subsidize camp costs for eligible Suffield youth who wish to attend Suffield Parks & Rec. and other camp programs.
Important May Dates:
• May 13 and May 27: SCA sponsors blood pressure screenings at the Senior Center from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• May 16: Social Services Consultations with Lauren Marino, LMSW at Kent Memorial Library (register on KML’s website).
• May 13: Parkinsons Peer Support Group from 11 a.m. -12 p.m. at SCA. Call SCA to register.
• May 27: Alzheimers Caregiver Support Group and Memory Café from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at SCA. Call SCA to register. z
Requirements: Suffield Resident, Income documentation Food Pantry by Appointment
No financial requirements for Meals on Wheels
No requirements for Outdoor Food Cabinet
Foodshare Mobile Food Truck (Suffield Site) 1408 Mountain Rd (W. Suffield Congregational Church) (860) 668-2271 - Every other Tuesday 1:15 – 1:45 p.m.
CTFoodshare.org for schedule
Requirements: Connecticut Residents Only
Suffield Senior Center
145 Bridge St.
$5 Lunch Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday 12 p.m.
Suffieldct.gov / (860) 668-3862
pleclerc@suffieldct.gov
Requirements: Reservations – (860) 668-8830
First Church of Christ
81 High St. Outdoor 24 hr/7 day Food Cabinet (860) 668-7223
No Requirements
Photo submitted by author
Thank you to Stephanie Salerno Team for going door to door and gathering four full cars of groceries, personal care items and cleaning supplies for our Spring Basket distribution. There was so much that it also helped replenish our shelves! From left: Kevin Hull, Sabrina Medeiros, Alyssa Salerno, Stephanie Salerno, Emma MacDougall
Schools of Thought
Willie Wonka Jr., a Musical Success!
By Kenneth M. Smith, SMS Principal and Brooklyn Ferguson, SMS Student
Despite some early setbacks, first-time director, Jack Flanagan, and the multitude of students and staff involved in the Suffield Middle School production of Willy Wonka Jr. embodied the optimistic philosophy of the lead protagonist of the play, Charlie Bucket. “Whenever my luck is on the blink, I think positive! Whenever I'm feeling down and out and don't know what to do, I never give way to fear and doubt, 'Cos thinking positive sees me through!”
The three-show performance, which ran from February 27 to March 1, 2025, showed the constant perseverance and dedication of all involved to finish the play in such a successful fashion.
“One of the most challenging parts of this show was determining how we were going to make certain aspects from the script work on a middle school stage,” said Flanagan. “Willy Wonka is a show that involves lots of special effects, such as a shrinking room, a character being turned into a blueberry, and another character shrinking to the point of being only six inches tall. There was a lot of brainstorming that took place to try to figure out how these things would translate on to our stage.”
In addition to the many special effects that Flanagan and his crew had to navigate for the show, the production also lost its musical director after the first week of rehearsals, new body microphones had to be purchased right before the show opened to replace some malfunctioning equipment, and Flanagan was leading a student cast and crew of approximately 60 students for the first time. A challenge that Flanagan recalls was not one he easily overcame by himself.
“It was a huge team effort,” said Flanagan, “everybody pitched in; the other adults involved in the production all had to step up more than normal to make the show a success. I am grateful for all of their support.”
That support came in many different forms. Teachers and other staff, both from
within the middle school and from around the district, volunteered to support the middle school production. Laura Tinnirella, a world language teacher from Suffield High School, jumped in to help students learn their music. Rachel Rubino, the middle school band director, supported the 10-member student crew that ran all lights and sound for the production. Eric Clarke, the middle school art teacher, and 25 students in his “Drama Sets and Props” course created the huge backdrop, a six-foot Wonka candy cart, 34 very large lollipops, and the “Wonka Boat”; all of which provided visual elements that transformed the middle school stage to establish the elaborate setting for the show.
“The students in the class learned how to design and build stage set ele-
ments which really brought the iconic Wonka Chocolate Factory to life,” said Carol Zaczynski, an English teacher at the middle school, who also served as the Costume Director for the production.
Flanagan, who only a little more than a decade ago graced the middle school stage as a member of the student cast in productions like Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr., The Sound of Music, and Disney’s The Lion King Jr., credits this production’s success to the talent and enthusiasm of the students on the stage.
“The amazing aspect of the work was how well the student actors assumed the personalities of their charac-
ters,” said Flanagan. “A week before the production was going to open, I wasn’t sure it was all going to come together, but those kids really brought it home; they were the stars of the show.”
Following the show run, the cast members received praise and congratulations for their exceptional work on this multi-month production. The involved middle school staff held the annual cast gathering -- where the students were able to see a recording of one of the performances, enjoy some snacks donated by parents and staff, and receive layers of accolades from the Flanagan and other staff involved in the production. The final notes provided students both a sense of accomplishment and excitement to participate again in the production next year.
“The show came together really well and it was fun to see it develop over the days of our rehearsals,” said Mason Goings, one of the student-led lights and sound crew. “I think I definitely want to do it again because it was a great experience, and it was fun to see everyone enjoy the final results of all our work.”z
Photo submitted by the author
Willie Wonka and guests take ride on the elaborate Wonka Boat.
Photo submitted by author
Willie Wonka and guests explore the wonderful Wonka Chocolate factory in the SMS production of Willie Wonka, Jr.
Join Rotary and FOFAH for an EPIC Day of Service
By Natalie Donais
On Saturday, May 17, at Hilltop Farm starting at 8 a.m., you are invited to be part of a global movement of action, impact, and unity. This EPIC Day of Service will unite more than 2,500 Rotary clubs and 75,000 Rotarians, community volunteers, and partners across the globe in a single day dedicated to making the world a better place.
From bustling city centers to remote rural areas, the EPIC Day of Service is a call to action for people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures to come together and tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our communities. Through thousands of coordinated acts of service, this day will demonstrate the true power of collective goodwill and service above self.
A Day That Spans the Globe
Whether it’s cleaning up miles of ocean beaches, re-
By Paul Muska
The 34th Annual Glenn T. Packard Golf Tournament has been scheduled for Friday August 8 at Oak Ridge Golf Course. For more than a quarter of a century, this tournament has benefited Suffield’s student athletes and community. Raising over $800,000 in the past 33 years, these proceeds have provided construction of the “Rotary Hut” at SHS, new Little League batting cages, Athletic Field emergency defibrillators, baseball and softball dugouts at SHS, Babb’s Beach improvements; the PTO playscape, a scoreboard for the SHS swim team, the Lacrosse scoreboard, a track timing system at SHS and much more.
Registration will start at 7:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast at 8 a.m. The Shotgun tournament
storing riverbanks, beautifying local parks or planting community gardens, every effort will leave a tangible, positive mark. In urban neighborhoods, volunteers will collect clothing for the homeless, distribute books to families with limited access to literacy resources, and prepare warm meals for individuals facing food insecurity. In rural areas, teams will repair schools, build playgrounds, and bring hope to underserved populations through acts of care and compassion.
Every project—big or small—will contribute to a mosaic of impact that transcends borders, cultures, and languages.
Why May 17th Will Matter
The EPIC Day of Service isn’t just about volunteering; it’s about creating lasting change. By mobilizing our members in the communities we serve, we aim to prove what’s possible when people
unite for a greater good. Join the movement and help improve lives, strengthen communities, and create a better future for generations to come.
TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE IT EPIC!
So, what are we doing in Suffield?
Suffield Rotary has partnered with Friends of the Farm at Hilltop (FOFAH) in Suffield to paint the iconic white fence surrounding the farm which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm was originally owned by George Hendee, founder of Indian Motor-
cycle. We are encouraging other local groups and organizations to join us for an Old-Fashioned Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn Fence Painting Event. This is a family friendly event, and we will be providing paint, brushes and rollers plus a cook-out lunch. Get out your overalls and straw hats and come join in the fun!
Suffield Rotary will also be offering students who need community service hours with signed documentation of their participation and time volunteered.
***In the event of rain, fence painting will be postponed and rescheduled for another date.***
To register as an individual, organization or group: epicdayofservice.org and locate the Suffield, Conn. project or contact co-chairs Natalie Donais-ndonais@snet. net or Barbara Rodgers-rodgersbarbarella@gmail.com
Suffield Rotary Golf Tourney
begins promptly at 9 a.m. Lunch will be provided on the course. At the end of the “golf day” there will be an hour of open bar and appetizers, followed by a brief ceremony and selection of raffle prizes.
The tournament honors Glenn T. Packard, the son of Warren and Flo Packard. Glenn grew up in Suffield where he was an outstanding three-sport (soccer, basketball, and baseball) athlete at Suffield High. He was an All-State player on the state championship soccer team in 1978. Moreover, by all ac-
counts he was as great a person in high school as he was an athlete, displaying maturity and compassion for others well beyond that typically demonstrated at that age. After attending the University of Notre Dame, Glenn returned to his hometown and, with his wife Sandy, began to raise his new family, with daughters Marissa and Rachel and son Colin. True to his values, he was a volunteer coach for soccer and basketball and volunteered assisting inner-city children.
In 1992, at the age of 31, Glenn was tragically killed in a fluke motor vehicle accident on I-91. Within weeks, his long-time friends Mark and Karlene Sullivan decided that his life needed to be memorialized. They created a foundation in Glenn’s name and started a golf tournament to raise funds for it. The objective was, is, and has always been, “to enhance the quali-
The Back Story: In 2021, Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta challenged Rotarians to create a Day of Service. District Governors Joe Krause and Joanne Alfieri led clubs in Connecticut and Massachusetts in the first combined event in 2022, which has grown each year. (Suffield Rotary and over 100 other community members spent our day doing multiple projects at Sunrise Park) By 2024, the event spanned seven countries, continents, 21 districts, 1,264 clubs, and 36,040 Rotarians. The EPIC Day of Service is a grassroots initiative, organized by Rotarians from participating clubs and districts. It is not led by any single club or district but is a collective group of volunteers. This initiative is supported by the EPIC Day of Service Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit t organization, proudly led by Rotarians. z
ty of educational sports and recreational programs in the community” and “… to achieve these goals by employing the integrity, determination, enthusiasm and charitable spirit that Glenn demonstrated throughout his life.”
Please call or email Paul Muska (860-966-2825 or muskafamily425@gmail. com) to request a registration form or become a sponsor, or visit https://portal. clubrunner.ca/6939 z
Share Your Farm Stories
By Bob Molleur and Ray Dalrymple
If you own a farm, grew up on farms or worked on a farm in Suffield, we want your story. We are co-authoring a book, a collection of stories from young and old on their farm experience in Suffield and how that impacted their lives. Stories are limited to 900 words and submissions must be in MS Word format. Photos are welcome and are limited to two per story.
Please submit your stories to suffieldfarmstories@gmail.com. We want to hear from you. Our goal
is to publish and have the book available by our Nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. z
Brightening our Town
Toads and Ripples
By Abby Wolcott
If you have never sat quietly in the presence of a toad you are missing out on one of the finest experience that life holds. When I was growing up, I used to visit my friend on South Main St., and her dad was a doctor. We would spend most of our time crawling around his waiting room pretending we were horses. When things got a little busy, we would get shooed outside which turned out to be a good thing because her yard was a mecca for toads. It was a puddly and damp piece of property with bricks and cellar holes where we could search for toads. We could not resist picking them up and admiring their bumpy skin and gentle eyes. Most of them did not like this, and they peed on our hands as a parting gift. We would put them on some mossy patch, they would hop away lazily, and we would head off to find the next toad.
Decades later, my affection for toads only grew. We had a resident grandpa toad that lived in our barn and patrolled our piece of property for insects. In the warm weather before turning in for the night, we would head out to the barn to check the horses and to see what the toad was up to. If he happened to be out on some pilgrimage, we lay awake at night worrying about him. And more often than not, there he would be the
next evening. Everything was right in the world.
But I am not so sure everything is right in the world for toads or us these days. Toads and other amphibians have an especially tough time coping with environmental changes. Their moist skin absorbs water and chemicals from the environment so they are very vulnerable, and their numbers are declining. For us bipeds, these times are making many of us feel unsure and yes, vulnerable, too.
For solace we often head out to the Suffield Land Conservancy properties in town. We are drawn to one in particular, full of pin oaks overlooking a meandering brook. Last spring we posted up over a wetland near that brook. We were poised with binoculars, hoping to see some warblers. The warblers made an appearance, but one day we were lucky enough to be serenaded by toads. They had returned from the woods and fields to the water, where they had started their lives. So, in that shallow marshy area, the males were trilling like mad, announcing their presence. It was a beautiful sound and went
on for some time as long as we did not move a muscle. Those melodious trills foreshadowed what was to come, and we noticed some gentle ripples in the shallows. These ripples were timely since the Grateful Dead’s “Ripple” was on repeat in my head. Jerry Garcia put it so well singing that “there is a road, no simple highway between the dawn and the dark of night. And if you go, no one may follow, that path is for your steps alone.” So, our path took us by these amorous amphibians, and before our delicate eyes we were able to witness quite a ruckus in the water as male toads clutched the females, overcome.
On another visit we noticed that their hook-ups were fruitful when we saw strings of toad eggs in this small pool of water. These would turn into toad tadpoles. They would sprout legs and take to the land for most of their days completing the cycle. They would nobly go about the business of being a toad, quiet and calm. The surface of the water that gave them life would be still again. Would my thoughts be able to follow suit? Doubtful. I toddled the Kent Memorial Library after finishing this piece in an attempt to quiet my mind. There I found a new Anne Lamott book on the shelves and smack dab in the center of that book are several paragraphs on her favorite song which just so happens to be “Ripple”. So, there you go. Looks like I will never get it out of my head, but I have some pretty good company! z
Photo by Joan Heffernan Dogwood
Busy Beavers! Westfield Photographer Featured in Pinney Gallery
By Fran Milliken, Suffield Arts Council
A show of more than 30 nature photographs, taken by Mr. Vern Wells, will be on display at the Pinney Gallery of the Kent Memorial Library in Suffield in the month of May.
Wells began his hobby in the 1960s with film equipment, later converting to digital in an effort to capture images found in nature, in and around western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut. Examples of his efforts are featured here.
A member of the Granby, Connecticut Camera Club, he will host a “Meet The Artist” reception in the gallery on the evening of May 8, from 6 – 8 p.m.. The show may also be viewed
during the Suffield Art Trail, on Saturday, May 17. This event is produced by the Suffield Arts Council, Vern Wells, and the Kent Memorial Library staff. z
A New Facebook Group in Town
By Kristen C. Kling and Leeanne Lawrence
We would like to invite all Suffield residents, former residents, and anyone else who is interested in Suffield to join our new Facebook group, "What's Going on Suffield?" Our new group has two purposes. The first is to provide a place for others to share their memories of growing up in Suffield. Leeanne and I have many such happy memories such as selling Girl Scout cookies, attending summer camp at Sunrise Park, looking forward to the Fireman’s Carnival every summer, working our first jobs in tobacco and at the movie theater in the Suffield Village, and graduating from Suffield High School. If you have memories you’d like to share, please
post them on our page!
Our group’s second purpose is to help everyone create new, happy memories. Members have been asked to post information about any upcoming events like art shows, bake sales, fundraisers for charities, school events like recitals and musicals, and whatever else you may have planned! It is our hope that we can use this information to help build a better community for all residents in town.
In part, this group was created in response to the negativity that has been posted in other Facebook groups associated with Suffield. No political content will be allowed on our page.
Small business owners in Suffield are welcome to post, but this policy may change
if the group feed becomes overloaded with such posts. In the two weeks that have passed since we started the group, over 450 members have signed up. Please join us! You can find us at www.facebook.com/groups/ whatsgoingonsuffield. z
discount to Suffield residents at our Enfield location
Photos by Ron Kirschbaum
What to do, what to do...
Beaver den dam
Beaver Lodgedam
Aha, now I’ve got it!
Photography by Vern Wells
Photo by Joan Heffernan Iris
Should You Join Suffield’s Buy Nothing Group?
By Tony Peterson
How could Michelle from Suffield receive a $420 Le Creuset Dutch oven and a $100 bookcase for free? And why did she give away $300 worth of clothing, toys, books and home decorations to other Suffield residents?
Or how about Glenn from town who received a lamp, bookcase and Brita water dispenser with 20 filters, worth $175, for free? Meanwhile, he gave away a $200 laptop and a new $150 Seiko watch.
Then there’s Sara, a resident who borrowed a coffee urn for free from another townie because she didn’t want to buy one to use once.
What’s going on, Suffield? Why the generous giving, taking and lending?
The Buy Nothing Movement
All three townspeople, and over 1,100 fellow Suffield residents, belong to the local Facebook Buy Nothing group that lets them receive and offer household goods and services for free. They can also ask for specific items and request to borrow items.
Payments are not expected or allowed, nor is swapping or bartering.
The group is part of the Buy Nothing Project, the brainchild of two Washington state women who wanted to help reduce waste by letting people give away what they no longer need, help people save money, provide a means for expressing gratitude and build a
KML Programs
Continued from page 24
blow bubbles -- and have fun!
Drop in; no registration required. Recommended ages 0-5.
Teen Nutmeg Book Club
Thursday, May1 at 3:30 p.m.
Join us for our KML Nutmeg Book Club! Books will
Likes, dislikes and advice
sense of community. They launched their first Facebook group in 2013.
Today, 7.5 million people belong to 128,000 Buy Nothing communities in 44 countries, according to the gifting platform’s website. To join, you must be a resident of the municipality hosting the group, Suffield, in our case. The Buy Nothing Project also offers a smartphone app. How it works
You post to the Suffield Buy Nothing group as you would to any other Facebook group. Recent examples include:
• “Youth golf set (used for ages 7-10 approx.) Porch pick up in the center of Suffield.” The post included a photo. Three interested members replied.
• “I am in search of moving boxes and packing material.” One member replied that she had some.
• “Organic Liquid Fertilizer. Unopened 2.5-gallon container.” The post included a photo, and two interested members replied.
It’s up to the “givers” to determine who they choose as recipients, and that’s a bit controversial.
be available to check out at the library. Open to all people in grades 5-12. No registration required.
Visiting Spaulding May 19, 27, 28, 29 and 30 Miss Wendy will be visiting Spaulding School in May to tell students all about the Summer Reading program! She’ll be bringing a bunch of new books to share as well! z
The administrators of Suffield’s Buy Nothing group allowed me to poll members about their experiences. Sixteen responded. Five complained that “givers” choose the first interested party to receive their items, rather than letting posts “simmer” for a while. My online research found that’s a common complaint aired in many other Buy Nothing groups.
In periodic posts introducing new members, Erin Phillip, co-administrator of the Suffield group, advocates holding off on choosing a recipient for a day or two and then choosing one randomly or by some other method. By email, she also suggested how to ask for an item. Explain how it will benefit you to attract the attention of gifters.
Overall, Suffield members are happy with their experiences. Answering my question, “List the three key reasons you use the Suffield Buy Nothing group - from most important to least important,” respondents naturally liked saving money. However, they were also interested in reducing landfill waste and helping needy people. Two respondents mentioned the convenience of easy pickups.
Complaints were mostly minor. Two wished that listings were categorized to make it easier to find what they needed. One objected to recipients not picking up when they promised even after a reminder. Another lamented that members don’t pay enough attention to “in search of” requests. One objected to recipients
Adult Essay Contest!
By Kacy Colston, Observer volunteer
Next summer will be the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. More than 100,000 cities and towns across our country will be celebrating! The Suffield Observer will be part of that celebration by hosting an essay contest with cash prizes.
The contest is for adults, but students aged 16 and older are also encouraged to participate. Entrants must live in Suffield or be from Suffield. The subject of the paper must be “What America Means to Me.” Suffield Observer volunteers are not eligible to enter the contest.
The deadline for submissions is November 30, and judging will commence on December 1, with the winners being announced on New Year’s Day.
Six winning essays will be selected from entries received. The essays will be printed in
turning around and selling items they were gifted. Another wished that she could post anonymously so neighbors couldn’t see her listings. In fact, anonymous postings are allowed.
If you’re on Facebook, consider joining the Suffield Buy Nothing group to rid your life of unneeded stuff without clogging the landfill.
If you’re not on Facebook and
The Suffield Observer once a month, starting with the February edition issue and leading up to the America 250 celebration in July 2026. In addition, all six winners will receive a $250 cash prize.
Contest entries should be no longer than 750 words and may include a picture. We are looking for your thoughts, opinions, and personal reflections, so no research is necessary and no bibliography is required.
Judges will be chosen from among volunteers supporting various America 250 events in town.
Please email entries to: Inbox@TheSuffieldObserver. com, and mention Adult Essay Contest in the subject. You may also send your essay to us by regular mail at Suffield Observer, Essay Contest, PO Box P.O. Box 424, Suffield, CT 06078. Please be sure to include your name and contact information. z
don’t want to join, download the Buy Nothing app to get involved in the worldwide gifting movement.
[Author’s note: After writing this article, I posted to Buy Nothing Suffield for the first time, offering 16 wooden and two plastic hangers destined for the landfill. It was gratifying to find an interested party, someone I knew!] z
Photo by: AI-generated by Canva Women comprise 83% of Suffield’s 1,120-member Buy Nothing Group, according to coadministrator Erin Phillip.
Book Review
By Jane Shipp
The End of Loneliness
By Benedict Wells
Pub. 2018 463 pgs.
The End of Loneliness is an unusual novel. Published originally in German, and taking place mostly in Germany, it is written in the first person by a young man, Jules, who is looking back to his childhood, and later back to his earlier adulthood. In both cases, he has experienced traumatic loss which the reader learns about only later. As the story opens, he is lying in a hospital bed after a serious motorcycle accident, expecting to die but surviving.
When we next meet Jules, he is remembering his boarding school years: not terrible years but also not easy ones. He has lost contact with his brother and sister. His best friend is Alva, a girl from school with whom he has been close, in a totally platonic way; she has become his family. They part ways suddenly and dramatically because neither can be perfectly open with the other. Jules never forgets the warmth of their relationship, and always longs to find her again. Finally, after 15 years, he does find her and they resume their platonic friendship because she is now married to an older man, a successful writer, who is suffering from the early phase of dementia.
Jules is also an aspiring writer. The couple invite him to join them in Switzerland for a prolonged stay, with the idea that he can pursue his writing in the isolation and relative peace of the Swiss mountains. He remains at their request, working alongside the husband as both men struggle
to complete work in which they are deeply invested. The relationship among the three becomes more complicated with every passing day, particularly since the husband continues to decline and is fully aware of his loss and of the future that lies ahead for him.
Ultimately Jules marries Alva, but not without having made a deal to finish her husband's last collection of short stories and prepare it for publication, and not without guilt over how the marriage ended. After yet another catastrophe in his life, he is faced with a decision about whether to go or to give up. Throughout the novel there are periods of happiness and confidence in his life, and periods of utter loss, bleak black times of the soul. As the title implies. he finally does resolve the issues troubling him and turns his energy to rebuilding a life for himself and his children, but the struggle is arduous. In a sense it represents all of our lives, with the ups and downs that living presents to each of us; no relationship is consistently blessed. This is the story of Everyman (and of Everywoman). z
Recipe: Key Lime Pie in a Jar
By Lynette Roy
Key lime pie, is the state pie of Florida. Key lime pie was thought to have originated in the Florida Keys in the late 1800s. At that time, key limes grew there abundantly, and the local sponge fishermen and local cooks discovered that when mixed with sweetened, condensed milk, it resulted in a delicious pie. But, like many famous foods, there was a disagreement as to its true origins. Some claim the pie was created by the Borden Company in New York in 1856 after Gail Borden allegedly invented sweetened, condensed milk. Condensed milk has been around since the 1500s, but the Borden Company did put their milk in cans.
Either way, condensed milk was heavily relied on in the Keys because, being canned, it prevented food poisoning and other illnesses due to the lack of refrigeration. Fresh milk was hard to come by on the Keys due to lack of grazing grass.
The Key lime (C. x aurantifolia) is a member of the Rutacae family and is a citrus hybrid. Native to Southeast Asia, this small lime is only 1-2 inches long. Its rind is thin, contains more seeds, is more acidic and more aromatic than the Persian limes we buy in the stores. The tree grows to 16 feet and is covered with thorns.
How did this lime make its way to Florida? They were brought over by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage in 1493. Although, the first tree was planted in Haiti and prospered, trees and seeds were brought to Florida by the Haitian and Bahamian mi-
Chris Colli Broker/Owner
grants.
In the 1926 hurricane, many key lime trees were destroyed. In many cases, what we now have are Tahitian limes. But the original Key limes can still be found growing wild in the Keys, in the backyards of people’s homes.
So, this month’s recipe celebrates the Key Lime Pie by creating small, individual dessert cups in mason jars.
Recipe
You will need 8- 8 ounce (half pint) mason jars including lids and rings, 1 baking sheet and a zester.
Crust layer
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (1 and 1/3 sleeves) *
6 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/8 tsp. salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Key lime pie layer
2- 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
4 teaspoons fresh lime
zest
1 cup lime juice (Try to use Key lime juice-bottled or fresh)
6 egg yolks
Topping
Whipped cream,homemade or store-bought Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Set jars onto a rimmed baking sheet.
• Place graham crackers in a small plastic bag and smash the crumbs with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs. Add the crumbs to a medium bowl along with the sugar and pinch of salt. Mix well with a fork. Drizzle melted butter into the crumb and sugar mixture and continue and mix well.
• Spoon the graham cracker crumb mixture into each of the four jars, dividing it evenly among the jars. Press very slightly into the bottom and up the sides, but do not press heavily. You want the base to be loose enough to eat with a spoon. Using a zester, zest 2 of the limes. Add the zest, along with the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice and egg yolks, to a medium bowl. Stir with a whisk until all ingredients are well-combined. Divide the mixture evenly between the jars.
Continued on Page 28
Proof that Spring is Here!
Recipe
Continued from page 27
• Set the jars on a baking sheet and bake until the filling no longer jiggles and is set, for about 15 minutes.
The Most Important Meal of the Day
By Kacy Colston
Pamper yourself with breakfast out! Order exactly what you want, cooked the way you like, and served with a bottomless cup of coffee. These great local restaurants are all fairly close by, and they are all special! The second half of this list will be published in June.
Angelina’s Restaurant Offering both corned beef hash and chorizo hash.
555 Hazard Ave, Enfield, 860763-0399
Sunday and Monday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuedsday and Wednesday 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday thru Saturday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Bobbie J’z
Try the southern biscuits and gravy!
1668 Main St, Agawam, 403786-8068
Open weekdays, 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Weekends till 1 p.m.
Café Barista
drinks and sandwiches.
108 Congamond Rd., Southwick, MA, 413-374-7866
Weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Weekends 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Country Diner
An extensive menu and interesting daily specials.
111 Hazard Ave., Enfield, 860763-5338
Open daily, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Crepes Tea House Eastern European specialties and crepes
Spicy “Wick” sauce is yummy 610 College Highway, Southwick, MA, 413-569-3000
Weekdays, 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Weekends till noon Harvest Cafe & Bakery
Daily 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Drago’s Kitchen
• When ready to serve, open the jars and top with whipped cream.
• These little dessert packs are great for picnics.
• Note: You can also substitute crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for the graham crackers for a different crust. z
• Let jars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover them with mason jar lids and bands and refrigerate for at least two hours, until chilled.
Coffee, espresso drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and gelato 66 N. Main St, Suffield, 860370-5713
Weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekends 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Clark Farms at Bushy Hill Orchard Weekends, farm to table!
29 Bushy Hill Road, Granby, 860-653-4022. Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Weekdays, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. closed Tuesdays. Fire on the Mountain Smokehouse
Specialties with their own smoked meats
82 N. Main St., Suffield, 860483-2734
Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday
Choice of several fresh baked breads for toast, plus bakery! 1390 Hopmeadow St. Simsbury., 860-658-5000
Open 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed on Monday The Launch Indoor and outdoor seating with Congamond lake views. 81 Point Grove Rd., Southwick, MA. 413-998-3548 Friday thru Monday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Please email me at Inbox@TheSuffieldObserver. com if it looks like I left out your favorite! z
Photo by Joan Heffernan Lilacs in bloom
It’s May at Phelps-Hatheway House and Garden
By Lynn Mervosh
May is blooming with excitement at the Phelps-Hatheway House and Garden! After the cold and icy winter, we are ready to embrace all that spring has to offer. Stroll the gardens to see what’s emerging from a long winter nap and take inspiration from the new plants added to the herb and perennial beds. Stop by the Visitor Center to learn about Connecticut Landmarks’ exquisite houses and each site’s programs and events for 2025.
We have a special season planned for you at Phelps-Hatheway, our exquisite landmark on Suffield’s South Main Street! Returning to the historic Pine Room on Saturday, May 10 at 2 p.m. is our popular Mother’s Day Tea. Gather those near and dear to you for a delightful afternoon featuring sweets and savories expertly prepared by Chef Renee Scharoff
of Blonde on the Run catering. We’ll pour ample cups of Harney and Sons teas and explain the role that tea played during the Revolution. After you’ve sipped to your heart’s content, step into the museum interiors to hear the stories of those who called our site home for thousands of years. To preserve the integrity of the Pine Room
and our historic House, the tea and tours will be limited to 25 guests. For more information and to reserve your space, please visit us at https://ctlandmarks.org/ properties/phelps-hatheway-house-garden/.
Suffield Garden Club’s beloved harbinger of spring, the 47th annual May Market returns to the Hatheway barn, lawn
and museum entrance on Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Whether you’re looking for a fine selection of annuals (geraniums!), perennials, garden accessories, tools, handmade jewelry, tasty treats, nature photography and more from local artisans, this is the event for you! Celebrate the opening of the Visitor Center art gal-
lery with an exhibition by garden painter Gina Trusiewcz and browse the petite but colorful gift shop stocked with books, tea and gifts for all ages.
Keep the floral vibes going inside the Phelps-Hatheway House Museum with a special horticulture-themed tour of the historic interiors. Join our interpreters as we explore the unique connection between garden and interior design throughout the centuries. Tours begin at 10 a.m. and repeat hourly until 3 p.m.
At the Phelps-Hatheway House and Garden there is so much to discover and learn right here in the center of town! We hope to meet you there!
Phelps-Hatheway House and Garden 55 South Main Street, Suffield (860) 668-0055
https://ctlandmarks. org/properties/phelps-hatheway-house-garden/ z
Photo submitted by the author
Phelps-Hatheway House in its patriotic glory.
PARKS & RECREATION NEWS
By Peter Leclerc/Donna Carney-Bastrzycki/Pam Cocca/Dan
By Donna Carney-Bastrzy-
cki, Director of Special Programs, Suffield Parks and Recreation Department
St. Patrick’s Weekend Hike & Hiking Workshop a Hit at Sunrise Park!
The Suffield Parks and Recreation Department kicked off St. Patrick’s Day weekend with an exciting Hiking Workshop and Guided Hike at beautiful Sunrise Park on Saturday, March 15. The event was led by Mat Jobin, owner of Reach Your Summit, alongside Parks and Recreation volunteer Stephan Bastrzycki and Donna Carney-Bastrzycki, Director of Special Programs. With gorgeous spring weather and scenic views, it was the perfect day to be outdoors. Participants engaged in an interactive workshop where they learned about the Leave No Trace Principles, the Ten Essentials for Hiking, gear recommendations, fitness hiking techniques, trail planning strategies, and key safety tips. Mat Jobin, who has over 15 years of experience guiding group hikes and completing challenging solo and thru-hikes, shared invaluable first-hand
knowledge with the group. The event concluded with a peaceful hike around the pond at Sunrise Park, complemented by snacks and refreshments for all to enjoy.
Standing Room Only at St. Patrick’s Weekend Open-Mic Night!
Also, during St. Patrick’s weekend, Suffield Parks and Recreation hosted its third Open-Mic Night of the year on Friday, March 14 at the Senior Center Dining Room—and the turnout was incredible! The event was standing room only and filled with laughter, music, dancing, and heartwarming performances. The evening was truly intergenerational, with performers ranging from 7-year-olds to seniors showcasing their talents. Suffield’s vibrant community spirit and local talent were on full display, with overwhelming support from a lively and engaged audience. We are looking forward now to all of the upcoming Summer events and programs for families that we have planned. For more info and to register for programs, visit-suffieldrec.om z
Photo by Donna Carney-Bastrzycki
Hiking Workshop – Fitness and Photography Tips & Tricks
Photo by Donna Carney Bastryzcki
St. Patrick’s Weekend Open Mic and Talent Show at the Senior Center
The Suffield Observer
P.O. Box 424, Suffield, CT 06078
Tel: 860-668-7442, email: inbox@thesuffieldobserver.com and ads@thesuffieldobserver.com
Website: www.thesuffieldobserver.com
A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1999 and published ten times a year.
Founder, Sam Fuller
The Observer is delivered free to all Suffield households.
Volunteers Who Work at The Suffield Observer
Officers
Chairman Jay Presser
Editor-in-Chief Beth Chafetz
Managing Editor Ann Kannen
Treasurer Ginny Bromage
Secretary Elizabeth Kaplan
Directors
Ginny Bromage, Mel Chafetz, Kacy Colston, Ray Dalrymple, Tom Frenaye, Will Hermann, Krystal Holmes, Ann Kannen, Dave Kannen, Elizabeth Kaplan, Scott Miller, Tony Peterson
Editorial Board
All directors and editors plus Johanne Presser
May Editor Steve Smith
June
Editors
Don Miner and Amy Reay
Staff
Editor-in-Chief Beth Chafetz
Assistant Editor Diana Simmons
Associate Editor........... Lynette Roy
Managing Editor Ann Kannen
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Andy Sauer, Pinki Shah, Jane Shipp, Wendy Taylor, Becky Tobiasz, Lisa Trase, Bob White, Kerry White, Abby Wolcott, Renee Wood, Sara Zak
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Manager......Ann Kannen
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Manager......Margery Warren
Beth Chafetz, Jan Peake, Johanne Presser, Jane Shipp, Kerry White, Renée Wood
Deadlines for June 2025 Issue
Submissions for articles should include the author’s name, address, telephone number and email. If applicable, include photographer’s name. Please send by email to: inbox@thesuffieldobserver.com
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Articles Email Deadline: May 12
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Photos All Photos Deadline: May 12
Publish Date: June 1, 2025
The Suffield Observer
P.O. Box 424
Suffield, CT 06078
Tel: 860-668-7442
email: Inbox@TheSuffieldObserver.com and Ads@TheSuffieldObserver.com
Our Mission: To build a sense of community throughout the town of Suffield and to provide a forum where all sides of issues may be addressed. Our Organization: The Observer is written by, for and about the people of Suffield. We are an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization seeking to provide information and news about the town of Suffield.
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Letters to the Editor/OpEds: The Observer accepts letters/OpEds that are factual and of interest to the community. We strive to print a balance of all sides of an issue. Letters should not exceed 250 words, OpEds should not exceed 500 words. Only one letter /OpEd per writer is allowed every three months.We do not accept Letters to the Editor endorsing political candidates.
Business Articles: The Suffield Observer does not accept articles written by owners of a business that could be considered self-serving. Advertising space is available for such purposes.
Political Ads: In the interest of maintaining a level playing field, we accept no political ads but do print at election time a Suffield Voters’ Guide with input from the local candidates.
Articles: We look forward to content on community issues or topics which would contribute to the benefit of residents of the community. Contributions include poetry, community interest articles, short stories, personal profiles, etc. Article length typically ranges from 100 to 600 words depending on the subject.
Photos: Photos enhance articles, and sometimes a stand-alone photo with a good caption beats a short article. Please send photographs as attachments (not embedded in a document). For quaility printing send good resolution of 300 pixels per inch or higher.
Suggestions: We are a volunteer organization and we truly welcome suggestions that would improve the newspaper.
Subscriptions for The Suffield Observer
The Suffield Observer is delivered free to every household in Suffield. Subscriptions are available for out-of-town delivery. It is the perfect gift for friends who have moved away, college students or grandparents living out of town. Price: $50 per year (10 issues) Mail your check with your name, address and telephone number to: Subscriptions,The Suffield Observer, P.O. Box 424, Suffield, CT 06078
It’s Time for Suffield Garden Club’s
By Lisa Parker
Looking for a gift for the garden enthusiast in your life? Or maybe a little something for yourself? Then mark your calendar for this year’s May Market coming on Saturday, May 17. Choose your gifts from a huge selection of flowers, shrubs, herbs, garden sculptures, terrariums, birdbaths, and nature photography, as well as local honey, jams, jellies and fragrant soaps. Are you more of an indoor cat? Look for handwoven baskets, blankets, jewelry
and refinished furniture.
May Market has always been a fan favorite event, attracting visitors from near and far. “I was a first-time visitor to the May Market in 2024 with my daughter,” writes Kara, an Ellington resident. “What a wonderful morning! The plants were beautiful, healthy and reasonably priced. The people were friendly and helpful. If you’re not there for your spring gardening, you should be. We will be back annually!”
The Suffield Garden Club
Handsome Trout Lily
is thrilled to bring back two May Market favorites: The Rose Booth and the Geranium Stand, each featuring healthy plants in many gorgeous colors. (Special thanks to the Suffield High Agriscience team for growing geraniums for us!)
Another returning favorite will be the Spear Head Spade Garden Shovels, which members love for dividing perennials and digging in our tough New England soil (and pictured in the Suffield Gothic photo.) The spades are available in three sizes and many great colors. Look for Suffield Gothic couple Sally and Larry Peters who will also be selling Spear Head Hoes, a fantastic garden tool originally developed in Japan 40 years ago, now available at May Market. Bring your favorite reusable shopping bags and, if you really plan to shop, bring a cart or wagon to trundle your treasures back to your car. Don’t forget to bring cash or your checkbook since not all vendors
take credit cards. Admission is free. The May Market is Saturday, May 17, rain or shine and runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Phelps-Hathaway House Barn, 55 S. Main Street.
The Suffield Garden Club, organized in 1934, is
a non-profit organization dedicated to the beautification of Suffield. Proceeds from this event support civic beautification, high school scholarships, town conservation, horticulture education, and garden therapy programs. z
Photo by Kathleen Horrigan
“Suffield Gothic”, featuring Sally and Larry Peters and the renowned Spear Head Spade. Suffield’s own Gothic Cottage was built in 1846 by David Lyman Sikes, and is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Located on Mapleton Avenue, the property remains in the Sikes family.
Photo by Joan Heffernan
The leaves resemble the coloring of a trout.
Look No Further
By Kathy Werth Webmaster
The Suffield Observer offers online advertising. Unlike the print edition, where ads appear beneath articles on specific pages, ads in the digital edition appear beneath articles that our readers are actively viewing.
In February of 2022, we did an online only paper due to COVID concerns. We had 1,700 hits on our website, so we do have a healthy online readership to view your ads.
For advertisers with an online presence, such as a website or a Facebook page, we can include a link to it so readers can access more information by simply clicking or tapping on an ad.
To upgrade to online advertising, please contact Ann Kannen by email at ads@thesuffieldobserver. com or by phone at 860-6687442 z
