Ttimesjune13 by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 20, Number 8

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

www.TownTimes.com

Friday, June 13, 2014

Farmer’s Market plans for busy summer

DUCK STOP

By Mark Dionne

the Farmer’s Market is open from 3 to 6 p.m. on Thursdays at the Durham town green — Organizers of the Durham food truck options included Farmer’s Market have been the GMonkey truck, the new planning for a busy summer Perk on Wheels, and Frank’s with more visitors and more Wood Fired Pizza from options to keep those visitors Clinton. “We love it here. The place on the green. “What we’re really encour- is awesome,” said Frank Deaging is people coming for Musis, former owner of dinner,” said Tina Hurlbert, Frank’s Wood Fired Pizza, one of the market coordina- who was preparing a variety tors. New food trucks have of pizzas in a mobile kitchen been set up to tempt visitors with his stepson and current to picnic on the green. On a recent Thursday — See Farmer’s / Page 2 Town Times

This ducky scene unfolded June 4 on Haddam Quarter Road in Durham. A quick reaction by Michael Greenwood, of Middlefield, resulted in his snapping this photo. Do you have a great wildlife photo taken recently in the towns? We’d love to see it. Send photos to news@towntimes.com. | Submitted by Michael Greenwood

Volunteers keep towns disaster-ready By Charles Kreutzkamp Town Times

In Middlefield and Durham, the towns’ Departments of Emergency Management are assisted by more than 75 volunteers through Community Emergency Response Teams and the Durham Animal Rescue Team, led by Sue White.

Many volunteers are drawn from emergency response professions, like police and fire departments, according to Durham’s Director of Emergency Management Francis Willet. DART springs into action during animal-related emergencies, helping to coordinate the pet shelter, which is

housed in a corridor at Coginchaug Regional High School when the school is being used as an emergency shelter. DART also helped with a barn collapse that occurred during Winter Storm Alfred. In Middlefield, Emergency Management is directed by See Volunteers / Page 2

Bailey Basiel (left) and a representative from the Fresh Food Network dressed as peas and carrots to attract attention to the Durham Farmer’s Market, which takes place every Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m., on the town green. | Photo by Melynda Naples

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Farmer’s owner Max DeMusis. Frank’s Wood Fired Pizza, which is based out of Clinton, exists only as a mobile entity, specializing in farmer’s markets, fairs, and private parties. The Farmer ’s Market opened in May with some rainy Thursdays, but Frank DeMusis said that the summer in Durham was still off to a good start. “Everyone is welcoming here. There’s a lot of warmth here.” Frank DeMusis said that, as often as possible, they use ingredients from local and organic farmers and also

participate in Connecticut’s Farm to Chef program. This keeps in line with the ethos of the Farmer’s Market of emphasizing local and healthy. Farms from Durham participating include Naples Farm, Deerfield Farm, Tuttle Ridge Farm, and Starlight Gardens, in addition to other regional farms. There also are local, non-food offerings, such as goats milk soaps made in Durham. The Farmer’s Market also is hosting different organizations and non-profits this summer. On June 5, UConn’s Middlesex County Extension Center sent a representative

to the green to talk about its Master Gardener program and a representative of the new Fresh Food Network also worked a table. Hurlbert said she would like to see more non-profits using the Farmer’s Market. Contact information for the Farmer’s Market committee, in addition to a vendor list, is available at www.durhamfarmersmarket.org. The presence of organizations on the green is part of an effort to turn the Farmer’s Market into a place to linger, instead of a place to buy your tomatoes and leave. “I’d love to see families come and to

Volunteers

see more kids really using the green for its intended purpose - community gathering,” said Hurlbert. Children’s Librarian Christine Michaud from the Durham Public Library hosts a story time at the market at 5 p.m., weather permitting. The Farmer’s Market also will partner with the library’s

summer reading program to draw a crowd in July. “We hope to get different entertainment. We’d like to see more activities,” said committee member Claudia White, adding that offerings like cooking challenges, recipe swaps, and performances were possibilities for the future.

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advice for individuals living in in the fridge and pantry may town, and as Emergency ManWilliam Roberts. The towns agement teams. See Volunteers / Page 4 Roberts said that it’s a good cooperate heavily in emerwww.linosmarket.com gency situations – for example, idea to keep at least several www.linosmarket.com during major power outages, days’ worth of non-perishable MEAT SPECIALS Coginchaug Regional High food and fresh water stored. USDA Fresh Ground Chuck 5lbs or More...... $4.49lb School has served as an emer- “That’s what my family does,” USDA Choice Beef Cutlets ........................... $5.99lb gency center for both towns, he said. “If there is an ex5lbs or More ............................................ $4.49lb owing to the greater resources tended power outage, the food USDA Choice First Cut Top Round London Broil .. $4.99lb available there. When needed, USDA Choice Boneless NY Strip Steaks ....... $9.99lb Middlefield has its own emerre ha 2 M a Store Made Italian Sausage 5lbs or More ...... $2.99lb i n S t -1 m, gency shelter at Memorial C T • (8 60) 349 Waybest Chicken Drumstick 5lbs or More ..... $1.29lb Middle School, which has Waybest Boneless Chicken Thigh 5lbs or More .. $1.99lb (860) 349-1717 more limited shower facilities 472 Main St., Durham, CT USPS 021-924 Pork Tenderloin .......................................... $4.99lb and generator power, Roberts we are on Please place catering said. DELI SPECIALS facebook Published weekly by orders in advance! During more run-of-the-mill Record-Journal at Land O Lakes American Cheese ................... $3.99lb Hours: M-F 7am-7pm severe weather, like extreme Sat. 7am-6pm, Closed Sunday Sharp Provolone ......................................... $5.99lb heat or cold, Emergency Man11 Crown Street, Land O Lakes Four Cheese Blend ................. $5.99lb agement may open the town Meriden, CT. Boar’s Head Sweet Slice Ham ...................... $6.99lb hall, libraries, and senior cenCitterio Mortadella ...................................... $4.99lb ters to the public “so they can 2LBS CUBE STEAK Periodicals Postage Paid get some respite,” Willet said. Martin Rosol’s Veal Loaf .............................. $4.69lb at Meriden, CT and at 2LB STEW BEEF Emergency Management Hummell Bologna ....................................... $3.99lb additional mailing offices. 1 LB CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS also assists planning for school Boar’s Head Low Sodium Turkey Breast ....... $6.99lb evacuations, like the precauStore Made Roast Beef ................................ $7.49lb P O S T M A S T E R: tionary evacuation from Korn FISH SPECIALS School May 30 in response to Send address changes to WITH A PURCHASE OF $10.00 Live Lobster a minor propane leak. NON SALE ITEMS OR $23.14 Record-Journal, P.O. Box 1 1/4LB ..................................................... $4.99lb Both Roberts and Willet We reserve the right to limit quantities. We are not responsible 915, Meriden CT 06450 1 1/2 LB .................................................... $6.99lb emphasized taking a proactive for typographical errors. Expires 6/19/14. 1265818 approach to disasters – both as From Page 1

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Friday, June 13, 2014

Wine tasting returns to Durham Fair By Mark Dionne Town Times

2014

The wine tasting tent drew a large number of visitors in 2013, the first time alcohol was officially served at the Durham Fair. The wine tasting tent will return for the 2014 fair. | Mark Dionne / Town Times

is allowed to only have two events a year. One is a full wine tasting event in Goshen and the other is within our fair.” At the fair, the focus will be on wines made with enough

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tasting tent caused no issues last year. The tent required a separate admission charge of $12 on Friday and $15 on Saturday and Sunday as well as age verification at the entrance. The wine tasting tent was

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At its June 9 meeting, the Durham Board of Selectmen granted permission to the Durham Fair Association to allow wine tasting at the 95th annual Durham Fair in September, making it the second year in a row alcohol has been permitted at the traditionally dry fair. Wendy Manemeit, coordinator of entertainment for the fair, attended the BOS meeting for the vote. In an e-mail, Manemeit wrote, “The vote for the wine tasting was approved, in part, I believe, because of the care and attention we paid to keep it traditional to agriculture and classy.” The wine tasting tent will be run by the same group that ran the tent at the 2013 Durham Fair. The group is part of the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s attempts to support Connecticut wineries. According to Manemeit, “The group is sanctioned by the state of Connecticut and

part of a redesigned town green. For the 2013 Durham Fair, the green, which in the past has hosted the craft tent and a car dealership tent, offered smaller rides for younger children, entertainment on the smaller green stage, and some food booths, in addition to the cordoned-off wine tent and a Cabot cheese tasting table. “To have alcohol approved at our fair after 96 years was a big deal. And I feel we did it right,” wrote Manemeit. Before the 2013 Durham Fair, Manemeit and DFA President Dan Miramant emphasized the Connecticut and agricultural roots of the wine tasting tent. “The governor has sanctioned their particular group [of wineries] to host this particular wine tasting in two venues this year and we are fortunate enough to be considered as one of them,” said Miramant to the BOS in July 2013. “I want to emphasize that this is not [just] a wine tast-

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Durham accepts donated car An anonymous donor provided Durham with a Jeep Wrangler, which will be used as a “chief’s car” for the Durham Volunteer Fire Department. The car, a four wheel drive vehicle with approximately 11,000 miles, will be used by Fire Chief Rob Chadd. The Jeep will be marked and stocked with equipment and allow Chadd faster responses to calls, a practice common in many small towns. The Board of Selectmen had to vote to accept the donation, which they did at their June 9 meeting. “Congratulations,” Durham First Selectman Laura Francis told Chadd after the vote. —Mark Dionne

Wine From Page 3

ing event. It’s more in line with our attempts this year to make the fair more agriculturally focused. It’s part of the Connecticut-grown initiative,” said Miramant before the fair,

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“It’s more educational in nature than it is just a wine tasting event.” Manemeit said the group was “professional” and easy to work with in 2013. The Durham Fair is scheduled to take place Sept. 25 - 28.

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carbon monoxide fumes. Both emergency management departments take preparation to heart for themselves, as well. “Proactive” is a watchword for Willet and Roberts. In June, “we devote a full day to activating our unified command,” Willet said. When working with the state, the team will drill various disaster scenarios, which can be anything from “what if a tornado touched down at the Durham Fair?” to a short-term power outage from a hurricane. Both departments drill at least four times per year, which is a requirement for grant funding. “We don’t claim to be prepared for all scenarios, but we do our best and in years past we have been very successful in dealing with challenging situations,” Willet said. Willet maintains a very active Facebook page with

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have had to deal with power outages of five days or more in be able to keep for a couple of the past several years.” Roberts also suggested days, especially if you keep the fridge closed as much as pos- keeping a flashlight around sible, but many people in town with fresh batteries. It can also be helpful to have a battery powered radio to use to receive alerts during a power outage, Roberts said. “You never know what is going to happen. A little bit of preparation can go farther than we think,” Roberts said. “It’s also important to know how to operate a generator safely,” according to Roberts. If improperly ventilated, generators can cause issues with From Page 2

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Friday, June 13, 2014

June 14: A good day to explore area museums

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the grandson of Amon Bradley, donated it. Items owned by the family are on display year-round, including diary entries family members kept starting in the early 1800s. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re featuring the gardens because June is a wonderful time and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve really enhanced our gardens a lot. So weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to highlight the garden and have people not only visit the inside, but we encourage them to walk around the grounds and see the roses in bloom,â&#x20AC;? Secondo said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rosesâ&#x20AC;Ś are indicative

of the time period. Bradley Barnes would have had the same kinds of rose bushes.â&#x20AC;? Normal admission to the Barnes Museum is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for students, and children under five are free. The museum is also participating in Blue Star Museums, giving free admission to members of the military and their families this summer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hoping to get a lot of people from Southington because many people have lived here for years never stepped

foot in the museum and once they do theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really enthusiastic about what they find in here,â&#x20AC;? Secondo said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wonderful museum and full of treasures.â&#x20AC;? Paradise Hills in Wallingford will be offering free childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities from noon to 1 p.m., hay rides from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and live entertainment from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information and to see the entire list of participating places, visit www. ctvisit.com.

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On June 14, nearly 200 museums, restaurants and other attractions will be offering discounts or free admission during the 10th Annual Connecticut Open House Day. The Southington Drive-in and Barnes Museum in Southington and Paradise Hills Vineyard and Winery in Wallingford are among this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participating attractions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Connecticut Open House Day is really a great opportunity for Connecticut residents to go around the state that day and to experience some great opportunities through some of the small and some of the larger attractions and venues around the state,â&#x20AC;? said Randy Fiveash, director of the state Department of Economic and Community Development office of tourism. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some are free, some are reduced cost and some are special deals.â&#x20AC;? On Saturday, the townowned Southington Drive-in kicks off its season with a showing of the movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jaws.â&#x20AC;? The following week, the drive-in will participate in the open house day for the first time, Dawn Miceli, a mem-

ber of the drive-in committee, said. The first 100 carloads will get in for the Southington resident price of $10. Non-residents typically pay $15 a carload. The movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ice Ageâ&#x20AC;? will be playing that night. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole goal of the CT open house day is to showcase all the different amenities and venues we have in our state,â&#x20AC;? Miceli said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We at the Southington Drive-in believe we have one of the most interesting and unique venues in the state. We definitely wanted to be a part of this statewide celebratory event.â&#x20AC;? Barnes Museum curator Marie Secondo said the museum will be offering free admission for tours of the facility. The Barnes family built the house in 1836 and it was donated to the town by Bradley Barnes in 1973. Three generations of the Barnes family lived in the 17-room house until Bradley Barnes ,

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New principal selected for CRHS By Mark Dionne

Town Times

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Brian Falcone, a Cheshire resident, and current principal of Terryville High School, has been appointed as the next principal of Coginchaug Regional High School. Falcone’s hiring, voted unanimously by the Board of Education at a special meeting, June 10, ends a search that began over a year ago. Falcone is a graduate of Sacred Heart University, with a bachelor of science degree in psychology and a master’s degree in elementary education, and also has a sixth year in educational leadership degree from Southern Connecticut State University. In 1999, Falcone began his teaching career as a sixth grade teacher before serving as an assistant principal at elementary and middle schools. Falcone has been the principal of Terryville High School since 2010. Terryville High School is the only high

school serving the Plymouth school district. A small high school with approximately 500 students, Terryville High School also has an advance placement participation rate of 30 percent, according to U.S. News and World Report’s survey of high schools. The starting date for the new principal is July 1. In a statement released by the BOE, Falcone said, “I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Coginchaug faculty and the Region 13 community. I am looking forward to meeting all of the students and working with the faculty to enhance the already impressive programs offered. Working together as a team with parents, community members, and our faculty I am confident that we will be able to provide innovative 21st century learning experiences for all students at Coginchaug Regional High School.” Shortly after her own hiring, Superintendent of

Schools Kathryn Veronesi called hiring a CRHS principal a top priority of her first school year. CRHS has been without a permanent principal since the departure of Andre Hauser for Watertown High School in April, 2013. When then-Superintendent Sue Vicarro resigned shortly after, the BOE decided to focus on the superintendent search, allowing the new superintendent to take part in the principal search. Veronesi said, “Mr. Falcone will join a strong administrative team and will lead an exemplary high school. On July 1, we will welcome another exceptional leader to an outstanding district.” The hiring process included community feedback in surveys, focus groups, and participation in the search committee. According to a Central Office press release, the hiring committee concluded, “He is organized, clear, and goal oriented. His interviews and presentation demonstrated the communication skills we are looking for. He has a vision for how Coginchaug can excel and the experience with [accrediting body] NEASC, Common Core, and [evaluation program] SEED to lead us in that direction.” Falcone joins a district that

has experienced multiple recent turnovers. In addition to a new superintendent and principal, CRHS has a new assistant principal in Patrick Gustafson and an new athletic director. A Durham resident and former CRHS teacher, interim

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Four dancers from the Middlesex Dance Center in Middlefield were inducted into the MDC chapter of Nu Delta Alpha, a national dance honor society for middle school, high school, and college/university students recently. NDA recognizes outstanding academic and artistic achievement, including performance, production, scholarship, technology and community service and was established in 2001 by the National Dance Association. The dancers have maintained a GPA above 3.0 while participating in classes at the Middlesex Dance Center as well as being involved in other dance related activities at their schools and in their community. From left: Kayleigh Crocetto, Alexandra Santiago, Meghan St. Amand and Lauren Badin. | (Submitted by Toni-Lynn Miles)

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principal Don Gates was popular with CRHS students, who dedicated the 2013-2014 yearbook to him and departing athletic director Ted Lombardo. The start date of July 1 means both Gates and Falcone will finish this school year at their current schools.

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The Rev. Dr. Elven W. Riggles, Jr. DURHAM — The Rev. Dr. Elven Walter Riggles, Jr., 55, of Durham, and Bellows Falls, Vt., husband of the late Jill (Fiorini) Riggles, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2014 in Vermont. Born in Milford, he was the son of the late Elven and Marguerite (Desrosiers) Riggles. The Rev. Riggles was the minister at the United Churches of Durham for 25 years. The Rev. Riggles is survived by his children, Meredith Huntley and her husband, Matthew Huntley, Elizabeth “Posey” Riggles, and John Riggles; his sister, Deanna Lavoie; two nieces, Danielle and Michelle Lavoie; his motherin-law, Jean (Dugan) Fiorini; and his many cousins and loved ones. Graveside services will be held in private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elven’s memory to the United Churches of Durham, P.O. Box 66, Durham, CT 06422. Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church St., Middletown, is handling the arrangements. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

Obituaries

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Saturday, June 14 Farmer’s Market - The Dudley Farm Farmer’s Market is scheduled for every Saturday through October, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 2351 Durham Road, North Guilford. Fruits and vegetables, flowers and plants, baked goods, eggs, naturally raised meats, arts and crafts, maple syrup, jams and jellies, pickles and more. Subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. For more information, call (860) 349-3917 or www.dudleyfarm.com. Open house - Middlesex Dance Center, 500 Main St., has scheduled an open house for Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to noon. Video and scrapbooks. Car show - The Vinyl Technical High School Parent Faculty Organization has scheduled a spring car show for Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Durham Fair Grounds. Trucks and motorcycles are welcome. Registration for those showing vehicles is scheduled for 8 to 9 a.m. A fee is charged for exhibitors and spectators. Proceeds benefit student programs a Vinal Tech High School. For more information, visit www.cttech. org/vinal. Walk-a-thon - The 2014 CAT WALK fundraiser Walka-thon is scheduled for Saturday, June 14, at Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Road. Registration at 9:30 a.m.; 2.2 mile walk and 3.1 mile run at 10 a.m. Proceeds benefit Cat Tales Inc. For more information, visit www.CatTalesCT. org. Strawberry Festival - Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., has scheduled its strawberry festival for Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine. The event includes a classic car and motorcycle show, bake sale and craft show. Proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. Bake sale proceeds benefit Heifer International. For more information, call (203) 213-2070. Fun Festival - Grippos on Main Street, 349 Main St., has scheduled a fun festival

INTERNATIONAL SERVICE

to celebrate its 50 years for Saturday, June 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. DJ, raffles, bouncy, raffles and treats. For more information, call (860) 349-3487.

Friday, June 27 Concert - The Higganum Congregational Church, 23 Parsonage Road, has scheduled “A Very American Summer Concert” for Friday, June 27, 7 p.m. Patriotic tunes, the Westbrook Drum Corps, pipe organ and a capella singing group. Ice cream will be served. The concert is free. Free-will donations will be accepted.

Wednesday, July 9 Get Stitchy - Durham Recreation has scheduled Get Stitchy, an open event for quilters and sewers, for Wednesday, July 9, 7 to 9 p.m. at the Durham Activity center, 350 Main St. Bring project materails, sewing machine and extension cord. For more information and to sign up, contact Pam Carey at (860) 349-0453, carey_ clan@sbcglobal.net or Vicki Berry at (860) 343-0879, vberry11@comcast.net.

Your

From left: Middletown Rotary Club President Garry Mullaney, Middletown Rotary Club New Generations Service Committee Chairperson Cathy Stebbins, IDS student Vincent Salabarria, IDS student Jack Bergentino, IDS student Olivia Haouchine, and IDS Head of School Jessi Christiansen. The Independent Day School in Middlefield established a Rotary Interact Club which is sponsored by the Middletown Rotary Club. The IDS Interact Club secured over $1,000 to help support Rotary International Service Projects. IDS students were driving forces in helping the Interact Club raise money. Jack Bergentino manages the school store which collected $754 for Bio-Sand Filters providing clean water in developing countries. Olivia Haouchine focused on fundraising for Eradicate Polio and securing $350 toward polio vaccines. Vincent Salabarria handled the fundraising events and coordinated the advertisement programs for the Interact Club. The Middletown Rotary Club Board of Directors approved a dollar for dollar match on the IDS gift providing a total of $2,000 to support the global initiatives.

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Opinion Flag Day is June 14 Flag Day is June 14. Several Veterans organizations have scheduled ceremonies to properly retire unserviceable American Flags. Our Nation’s Flag has seen many faces, but, here are a few things that may be useful to know: After declaring America’s independence in 1776, our new nation was still largely unsettled. A variety of flags were flown that were typically homemade and reflective of the region where they flew. Our new nation needed a uniform flag to assist our country continue its momentum and unify the people. On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act: “Resolved: that the flag of the United States be made of 13 stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be 13 stars, white with a blue field, representing a new constellation.” After Vermont and Kentucky were admitted to the union, Congress passed the second Flag Act of 1794, which stated that by May 1795, the flag should have 15 stripes and 15 stars. This flag flew over Fort McHenry in 1814.

The third Flag Act of 1818 reduced the number of stripes to its original 13 and ordered that a new star would be added for each new state. Again, there were no instructions on how the stars should be placed, so flag makers placed them in a variety of patterns (circles-lines-one large star). In 1912, by executive order, President William Taft declared that the stars should be in six horizontal rows and that a single point of each star should be pointed upward. On Jan 3, 1959, with the addition of Alaska, the 49th state, President Eisenhower ordered the stars to be set in seven rows of seven stars, staggered horizontally and vertically. Just eight mounts later when Hawaii joined the union, Eisenhower directed a new arrangement for the flag in which five horizontal rows of six stars would alternate with four staggered rows of five stars. This flag remains the one that flies today. Submitted by John W. Hackett, USAF, Ret. Post Commander, American Legion Post 68

20th Anniversary

Movie reviewer got her start right here By Tanya Feke M.D. Life without Town Times? I simply couldn’t imagine it. It all began in 2008 with an impromptu trip to Wisconsin. I was interviewed by Town Times reporter Pamela Morello for a story about meeting Johnny Depp at his “Public Enemies” film set. Thanks to that first appearance in the Town Times and the support of then editor Sue Vanderzee, my column Diagnosis Movies was born. The movies have always been a passion for me. They are more than escapist fare; they are life perspective on whatever ails you. Movies can be smile-inducing, enlightening, purging and even therapeutic. Writing movie reviews for Town Times has not only made my childhood dream come to life but has also made my life richer by allowing me a creative outlet. Town Times supported me as I made my way from the East Coast to the West Coast, press credentialed to the LA Film Festival in 2009. While I may not have been around for all of Town Times’ 20 years, these past six years have been some of the best of my life. Thank you, Town Times! (Tanye Feke is currently in Los Angeles for the 2014 Film Festival.)

Tanya Feke visits with Johnny Depp at the 2009 LA Film Festival. She also had a chance to interview Martin Landau. | Submitted

Tanye Feke with Martin Landau at the 2009 LA Film Festival. | Submitted

Letters to the Editor P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Executive Vice President and Assistant Publisher – Liz White Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer – Shawn E. Palmer Senior Vice President and Editor – Ralph Tomaselli News Editor – Olivia L. Lawrence Assistant News Editor – Nick Carroll Reporter – Mark Dionne Advertising Sales – Joy Boone Advertising Director – Kimberley E. Boath Office Assistant, Press Releases – Marsha Pomponio

Fights for seniors To the editor: While I have always enjoyed working with retiring Sen. Meyer, I must respond to what I believe was a “pre-election cycle” op-ed that he published in Town Times, implying that I am insensitive to the plight of our seniors. I have been fighting for and funding senior tax relief programs for decades and I take this seriously. When it comes to senior tax relief the devil is in the details. As a former selectman, I felt the anguish as our seniors have been forced into an agonizing choice: Stay in their homes and forego basic necessities or sell-out and leave communities that they built. Towns respond by creating senior tax relief funds - but the money doesn’t go far enough. One problem is underfunding, but another is a flaw in the system. Existing law lets town governments only consider income in their aid calculation. Town officials have told me

that some people with million dollar homes take aid that could go to help more people. Several town officials, including the First Selectman of Madison, asked for help to make aid money go farther. I responded and sponsored a bill that gives towns the option to consider home value as well as income. They aren’t required to do it - but they can. I have been voting to increase senior tax relief year after year in my decades of public service. I have received wide, bi-partisan, support on this bill - particularly from people who have their feet on the ground and engaged with our seniors. This has been a problem that has been hurting our seniors for decades and it is time we did something about it. Senior tax relief is a statewide crisis and we all need to come together to listen to our towns to help more people. Noreen Kokoruda State Representative 101st District

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, June 13, 2014

Cooper-Atkins wins top export award Press Release

Healthcare markets both domestically and abroad. Cooper-Atkins Corporation is a woman-owned business, cer-

tified by the National Women’s Business Enterprise Certification.

Government Meetings

State Sen. Danté Bartolomeo with Carol Wallace, CEO of Cooper Atkins in Middlefield. Cooper Atkins manufactures tools to measure time, temperature, and humidity that are sold to companies around the year. The company was recently awarded the President’s Award for Exports in Washington, D.C. for growing its exports by 36 percent in the last four years. | Submitted healthcare market. The company’s development of market entry strategies was also particularly impressive. Cooper-Atkins’ achievements have undoubtedly contributed to national export expansion efforts that support

the U.S. economy and create American jobs.” Cooper-Atkins Corporation is a leading manufacturer of quality time, temperature and humidity instruments, with focus on the Foodservice, Industrial HVAC and

Durham

Middlefield

(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct. org for updates.) Tuesday, June 17 Board of Finance, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Agriculture Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 Planning and Zoning, library, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19 DMIAAB, Middlefield Community Center, 7 p.m. Monday, June 23 Board of Selectman, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 24 Ethic’s Commission, library, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25 Senior Citizen Board, Durham Activity Center, 1 p.m.

(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, June 17 Board of Selectman, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 Inland/Wetlands Commission, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 19 DMIAAB, 7 p.m. Board of Finance, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 24 Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25 Lower CT Valley RPA, 9 a.m. Thursday, June 26 Middlefield Housing Authority, 3 p.m.

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Cooper-Atkins Corporation, of Middlefield, was recently presented with the President’s “E” Award for Exports by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. CEO Carol P. Wallace received the award on behalf of the company. The “E” Award represents the highest recognition any U.S. entity may receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports. State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo visited the company when Cooper-Atkins employees raised a flag, bearing the letter “E”, in front of building that identifies the company for its growth in exports. In her congratulatory letter to the company, Secretary Penny Pritzker wrote “Cooper-Atkins Corporation has demonstrated a sustained commitment to export expansion. The “E” Awards Committee was impressed with Cooper-Atkins’ innovation in entering the international

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Library Briefs urdays for the summer.

Tuesday, June 24, 11 a.m. - Color Me Happy Summer Celebration. Face painting and sandcastles. RegistraLibrary hours are: MonLevi E. Coe Library’s 2014 tion is necessary. day through Thursday 10 Wednesday, June 25, 11 a.m. a.m. to 7 p.m.; closed Fridays. Summer Reading program The library is closed Sat- “Fizz, Boom, Read” begins - Homemade ice cream with Auer FArm. All ages. Tuesday, June 24.

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Learn more at an upcoming Informational Luncheon: 11:00 a.m. ~ Masonicare at Ashlar Village Cheshire Road, Wallingford. Saturday, June 21 Thursday, July 10

Thursday, June 26, 11 a.m. Storytime on the Farm. Preschool - grade 1. Museum passes Levi E. Coe Library has museum passes. Multiple state parks and forests are available.

(1940) starring Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell.

Programs for kids:

Farmer’s Market Storytime, Thursdays at 5 p.m. (all ages). Come to the Durham Green for stories, songs and activities. Weather permitting. Sciencetellers: Dragons and Dreams - Monday, June 30, 6:30 p.m. Sciencetellers uses visual experiments to bring the sights and sounds Movies of a story to life. Registration The Durham Public Li- is required. brary schedules Classic Programs for teens: Movie Matinee for ThursTeen Book Club - Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m. The film se- day, June 25, 6 p.m. “Distant ries is free and open to the Waves” by Suzanne Weyn. public. After Hours Summer KickJune 19 - “Stage Door” off Party - Saturday, June 28, (1938) starring Katharine 7:30 to 9 p.m. Kick off the Hepburn. summer at an after hours June 26 - “His Girl Friday” party for teens.

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What’s an Ocean Bowl? By Abigail Eisner

“What’s an ocean bowl?” Is a question I have received hundreds of times. Sophomore year I was curious as well, so I attended a meeting and immediately wanted to join. For the unaware, National Ocean Sciences Bowl is an organization that holds regional and national competitions where students answer trivia questions relating to oceanography, marine policy, chemistry, and biology. The questions are multiple choice, and you and your teammates must try to buzz in with the right answer before the other team. If your team correctly answers the four-point multiple choice question, you have the opportunity to answer a sixpoint short answer question. Regardless of whether

or not your team answers the short answer correctly, the moderator then moves on to another toss-up multiple choice question. As a Connecticut school, every year our team has the opportunity to attend the Quahog Bowl, the Connecticut and Rhode Island regional competition held at UConn Avery Point. Our coach, Mrs. Lorrie Martin has been involved with NOSB for nine years. Prior to this year, her teams have gotten as far as second place but have never won and gotten the chance to travel to nationals. This year our practice schedule started as any other. We met weekly and practiced our trivia questions as we always had. The night before competition, we drove to the

CRHS Students are WISE By Marty Daniels

Since its indoctrination to the Wise Individual Senior Experience (WISE) program in 1998, Coginchaug’s select seniors have been hard at work pursuing fields outside of the broad and typical areas of math, English, and science. WISE, an extracurricular independent study, gives students a chance to explore areas of interest outside of the core academic areas, presenting students with new opportunities and insight into potential careers. “WISE is a half-year independent project on any topic,” describes WISE coordinator Matthew Taber. This year, “any topic” included landscape architec-

ture, music improvisation, and outdoor education among others. “We’ve seen everything from performances to internships to learning completely new skills,” says Taber. “It’s a great opportunity to pursue an individual project.” This year, WISE included ten seniors with a variety of interests – Jesse Azevedo, Kristen Burtt, Marty Daniels, Abby Eisner, Carolyn Fetchel, Nate Graichen, Kat Hamilton, Julia Orosz, Jeff Peracchio, and Maha Yaghi. After five months of studying and documenting their respective topics, each WISE student put on a half-hour presentation depicting his or her own

June 13, 2014 Project Oceanology building at UCONN Avery Point and prepared to settle in. All around us, teams had textbooks sprawled on the table and were intensely studying their contents to make sure they had all the information they needed to compete. Meanwhile, our team felt pretty out of place by not studying. We were confident that we had prepared enough beforehand to do well in the competition. On competition day, we hit a winning streak, and were ecstatic when we made it to the championship round. After an intense battle for the lead, we were able to jump ahead and win the match. An indescribable feeling of pride swept over the team, as we were only the second Connecticut team to ever win the Quahog Bowl. We were incredibly excited to be able to attend nationals in Seattle.

(continued on page 3)

personal journey. “It’s a lot of hard work,” says Hamilton. Orosz, agrees– “It’s a big commitment, but it’s a great opportunity for anyone who has a passion and the time to dedicate.” After a month of final presentations, the ten WISE seniors saw some extra time in the spotlight at a schoolwide assembly, showcasing the product of their individual efforts. “It was really cool,” remarks sophomore Damien Pastore. “I wish I saw more of everyone’s presentations.” But aside from the halfcredit and extracurricular fulfillment, the participants of WISE have all gained something that will

(continued on page 3)

Volume 20, Issue 7

Hello HELO

By Jeffrey Peracchio

Many of us take for granted the small but valuable things in life from the simplest task such as flipping a switch to turn on a light to reaching into your refrigerator to grab a snack. On May 5, a 12-year-old boy by the name of Jean Michel presented himself in front of Coginchaug’s French Honor Society. He shared the story of who he is and where he comes from, exemplifying the reasons why most Coginchaug students and faculty are lucky to have the opportunities that are presented to them each day. On January 12, 2010 an earthquake struck the inner coast of Haiti, only a few miles away from the town of Léogâne. This earthquake left only fifteen percent of Haiti’s cities standing and hundreds of thousands of people without homes. One of those victims who was able to find refuge from this terrible catastrophe was Jean Michel. HELO is an international organization that takes care of victims of traumatizing events and of serious injuries. Jean Michel was lucky enough to be found and taken in by HELO where he was then given health attention and put into a school system where he could grow as a student. Through all of Jean Michel’s struggles, his positive attitude towards life was never affected. French Honor Society member Sarah Brady spoke about the purposes of Jean Michel’s visit. “We [the French Honor Soci-

ety] sponsor the HELO organization. We thought it would be great for him to be able to share with us who he was and where he came from. Also, it was a great way for Jean Michel to explore Coginchaug to see how the student life in America is compared to where he is from.” “Jean Michel is 12, orphaned by the earthquake, and our brightest student. He has been invited several times to speak at various functions for Orphaned Starfish Foundation, who funded the computer center at HELO, but was unable to attend because of issues with the visa and regulations of the Haitian government for orphans to leave Haiti post-earthquake,” says HELO Co-founder Elisabeth Kennedy. Soon after, Jean Michel’s visit to America was finally approved. Brady also noticed something very interesting about Jean Michel: “When he entered the school, he walked very slowly. He wanted to take everything in, and he was interested in Coginchaug.” Jean Michel’s life story explains just how lucky we are. With education, food, and shelter at our fingertips, we sometimes forget how our necessities in life can be met by driving a few minutes down the street to the store or by calling our family on a cell phone when we want to hear their voices. Although Jean Michel is now back in Haiti, his message of opportunity and perseverance will remain with us for a lifetime.

See photo on page 6!

The Staff Editor-in-Chief:

June 13, 2014

Sarah Says...

Volume 20, Issue 7

Nerd’s Guide to Gym Class By Emily Tuttle

Sure, the classic turtle walk to your dreaded next class is fine, but eventually you’re going to get there. What do you do Sarah Brady when that class is P.E.? These 10 easy steps, developed over By Sarah Brady the course of four years of high school P.E. classes, will help Copy Editors: As my graduation rap- high school, but you don’t you avoid the impending doom, or maybe just major embarDena Branciforte idly approaches, I tend have to be the president rassment, that ensues upon entering the intimidating gymto look back on all the of five clubs and a concert nasium. Emily Tuttle lessons I learned while pianist. All that stress can Sports Editors: at Coginchaug. Besides get to you. If you find 1. If the ball is ever approaching you during a game, learning math, science, something you’re good at fake a sneeze: “I’ve got it! I’ve got it! I - I - ACHOO!” Jeff Peracchio and who’s America it is, and become the best at Jennifer Crandall I learned a lot of lessons that thing, the right col- 2. If the game happens to be team handball - start with the ball. Trust me, you do not want to be the last about life. So for my last lege will pick you. one who needs to touch the ball before your team can Contributing column for the Devil’s Ad- Be good to yourself. This make a goal. You’ll know you’ve made this rookie misvocate, I’d like to impart one seems the easiest, but take when you are suddenly and shockingly guarded Reporters: some of those lessons on it’s actually really hard. by the best opposing players. Marty Daniels You have to take care of 3. In team games, you need to at least look like you’re you. Abby Eisner Be friends with people yourself and do things participating. The trick? Get guarded and stay guardNora Khalil who make you feel good that make you happy. ed by an opposing player. This will discourage your Lauren Melchionne and you can make feel Keep out the negative teammates from passing the ball to you. Jordan Cowles good. When you’re in voices that tell you that 4. Volunteer to keep the score. You’re better at math high school, your friends you aren’t good enough. anyway. are your support system Treat yourself every once 5. If setup is required, set up the materials slowly. Advisor: Ms. Rebecca Suchy against all the stress and in a while. Find a balance Those nets with the numbered parts can be quite catty meanness. You don’t between helping yourself complicated, even for a nerd such as yourself. This need friends who make and being unselfish. will result in less playing time. you feel bad about your- Most of all, do your best. 6. Treat every game like dodgeball - don’t even think That’s all anyone can ask. of getting near that foam sphere of death... self. You don’t need to do 7. ...Unless of course, it is dodgeball. Then you dive for everything. Trust me; I And that’s all from me. I’ll it. Get out as soon as possible. You may think staying know. Colleges do want miss you next year my won- out of the fray is a good idea, but you’ll realize your Check out our website to see that you partici- derful readers. Do great fatal mistake when you’re the last person left and the crhsnews.org pated in something in things. entire opposing team is glaring at you, weapons at the

Goodbye

We Are... The Devil’s

Advocate!

Follow us on Twitter @crhsdevilsadv Please submit story inquiries, pictures, or letters to the editor to crhsdevilsad@gmail. com. The Devil’s Advocate is the official student newspaper of Coginchaug Regional High School of Regional District 13, representing Durham and Middlefield, Connecticut.

ready. Meanwhile, your team’s last hope of survival is...well...you. 8. If getting hit with a ball during dodgeball is just not happening (which is a mystery because you seem to get hit in the face during almost every other game), the trick is to take an opportune moment to walk out. It’s not like you’re the star player - in a moment of attack, no one will notice whether you were actually hit. 9. Relax and try to have fun - this class doesn’t count toward your GPA. Make sure you tell your disappointed, and sometimes quite angry, teammates to relax too when you miss the ball for the umpteenth time. I mean, did they really expect anything more from you? 10. Always avoid sharing your strategies publicly until you’ve earned your mandatory gym credit (and let’s face it, your mandatory credit will be your only gym credit). From one nerd to another: Good luck!

The CRHS Yearbook Club would like to thank the Middlesex Dance Center for their support. We apologize for the ommission of your ad in our 2013-2014 yearbook but appreciate your continued involvement in shaping the lives of many CRHS students!

Ocean Bowl

(Continued from pg 1)

Fast forward three months, and we were ready to go to Washington. After intensifying our studying and creating our own â&#x20AC;&#x153;Scientific Expert Briefingâ&#x20AC;? for the competition, we were more than prepared. The Scientific Expert Briefing was a requirement to compete; its goal was for us to present our findings to a simulated â&#x20AC;&#x153;congressâ&#x20AC;? on how to attack the issue of ocean acidification. We needed to do extensive research beforehand and come to consensus as a team on our recommendations. Our goal at the national competition was to â&#x20AC;&#x153;just beat one team.â&#x20AC;? We were at nationals after all and were competing against 21 other regional winners, many of them with previous experience at nationals. Most of all we wanted to have fun, enjoy the city, and befriend the people from across the country. The first two days we explored the city and went on a field trip with other NOSB members for a duck tour and visit to the Space Needle. As the weekend approached, so did competition, and we were ready. Saturday started with a round robin competition in which we performed phenomenally. We ended the round with a 3-1 record, which seeded us in ninth place. We moved on to the double elimination round, where we won our first match. After a headto-head battle in our second match, we lost again to the only team that had beat us to that point. We left in good spirits and were ready to take on the next match. After another neck-and-neck battle, team member Ryan Gossart put us in the lead with a toss-up question at the last minute. With a score of 57-56 we were given our short answer question and used the clock to our advantage. We waited to the last second to answer, and even though we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t answer correctly,

there were only 10 seconds left in the round. The moderator started to read the next question, but we all knew the time would run out. The other team decided to take a risk and buzz in without hearing the full question or answer choices and remarkably answered correctly. This allowed them to win the match and move on while we were unfortunately eliminated. Despite our frustration, we were grateful to have done so well in the competition. As Sunday rolled around, we watched the final matches and saw Boise High School take the championship with Arcadia High School of Los Angeles close behind. Then came the awards ceremony. They started to place everyone, starting with twentysecond. We listened for name after name, none of them Coginchaug up until tenth place. This was more than we ever expected or couldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve asked for for our

June 13, 2014 first time attending nationals. Ocean Bowl was one of the most fun experiences Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever had. I learned so much and got to see a part of the country I might otherwise have never been able to see. I met so many people that impacted my life and made friends I will never forget. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be more proud of our team and all that we accomplished. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t thank Mrs. Martin enough for all the hard work she put into coaching our team. Now instead of getting the question â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an ocean bowl?â&#x20AC;? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard many more â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where can I sign up?â&#x20AC;?

Bonding over Lunch By Jenn Crandall

The town of Durham runs a Senior Cafe program that holds events for the senior citizens in town. The Recreation Department holds this program so that the seniors can have nutritious lunches. It is run by Amanda Peterson, who put together the latest luncheon called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spring Back to School with Barbecue Lunch,â&#x20AC;? held at Korn Elementary School. At this lunch, students from Coginchaugâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Life Skills class waited on the seniors and helped make the event a success. All the students had a great experience and

were able to grow from interacting with the seniors. Gwen Clark, a resident of Durham said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The luncheon was a nice experience; it was wonderful seeing the students from Coginchaug interact. They had great courage for talking and waiting on us.â&#x20AC;? The students in the Life Skills class helped prepare and serve the food. They also talked to the seniors about themselves, which for some included what they plan to do after graduation in June. The luncheon was successful with the students helping the community and the seniors enjoying a relaxing lunch.

Come to one of the best universities in New England CENTRAL CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY

WISE (Continued from pg 1) follow them into the future. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just a presentation,â&#x20AC;? remarks Orosz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to be doing all the time next year.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gave me more confidence working with other peopleâ&#x20AC;Ś and it taught me to be a good problem solver,â&#x20AC;? says Graichen, explaining how WISE was able to benefit him despite his music remaining a hobby. â&#x20AC;&#x153;WISE made me better at speaking to people,â&#x20AC;? says Eisner. â&#x20AC;&#x153;WISE helped me figure out a game plan,â&#x20AC;? Azevedo adds. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of what we learn in school is short term stuff, but WISE taught me how to plan for the long run.â&#x20AC;? For others, though, WISE provided great insight into long-pursued careers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a project, sure, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also what I want to do with my life,â&#x20AC;? says Daniels. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always sort of knew what I wanted to be,â&#x20AC;? says Peracchio. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m certain.â&#x20AC;?

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for you!

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crhsnews.org

June 13, 2014 Volume 20, Issue 7

on our song for gradA New Start voted uation, which still feels like

By Abby Eisner

I can distinctly remember the first time I spent a day at Coginchaug. I was an awkward eighth grader shadowing my older brother who was in the final stretch of his senior year. I remember thinking, “Wow! Everyone here looks so old.” Well, here I am in my final stretch of senior year, and I couldn’t think any more differently. I feel so young. I am definitely ready to move on with my life, start new experiences and enjoy college, but holy crap I am young. At the start of my senior year, I was ecstatic to be done with high school forever. Yes, I was that senior who complained constantly. I would say “Ugh I’m so close why can’t I be done with school?” or “Do I really have to do this?” I’m guilty of living up to the teenage stereotype of an annoying complainer. But I am also living up to the other teenage stereotype of someone who constantly changes her mind. I’ve hit fourth quarter of my senior year and everything is starting to feel real. I’ve been accepted to and committed to my dream school, Bentley University. We just

light years away. And I am looking for a roommate. I feel like I just watched my brother go through this, and here I am. My homeroom teacher Mr. Bradanini has said the same thing to us since freshman year: “Your four years in high school are going to fly by.” My first thought when I was a freshman was that he was being ridiculous. Four years is a long time. I thought, “Four years is my time spent at Memorial and Strong combined.” As freshman year flashed by, Mr. Brad still had the same perspective, “You think freshman year went by quick? Wait until the end of sophomore year.” As a new sophomore my thoughts on the subject changed but not positively. “God I hope this year goes by quick,” and “I can’t wait to be an upperclassman.” Soon enough, my wish came true. Junior year came and went quicker than all of the previous years. My attitude towards high school was still “I hope graduation comes quick” at the beginning of senior year when Mr. Bradanini said, “Senior year is the fastest of all of the years spent in high school. Can you believe you are already

Summer PlansBy Nora Khalil

With summer just around the corner, students are eager to experience the familiar freedom and relaxation that comes with the warm weather. From freshmen to seniors, the students of CRHS have extravagant plans for the summer of 2014. Sophomore ...visit her beach house in Rhode Island. Taylor Marino ...relax on the East Matunick beach in plans to... RI Senior Abby Eisner plans to... ...venture on a relaxing vacation to Rhode Island, where she plans to lounge on the beach, rollerskate through the town, shop ‘til she drops, and spend quality time with family and friends. ...nanny an adorable 7-monthold. ...continue her employment at Larkin’s Run. ...volunteer at the Humane Society.

almost done?” But recently my perspective has shifted. Believe it or not, I like it here. I may not show it all the time, but I am going to miss the amazing atmosphere Coginchaug has. My friends have become family, teachers have become mentors and this community is my home. I do want to move on and travel and find my place in this world, but I am going to miss the people I’ve met and become so attached to here. I never would’ve thought that I would be entering the business field freshman year of high school. I saw the opportunity to join Future Business Leaders of America freshman year and jumped on it. I learned that I liked business and wanted to learn more about it. I signed up for some business courses and fell in love. I also didn’t know I wanted to do Public Relations until this year. I attended a journalism workshop as a field trip, and public relations was one of the classes. It sparked my interest immediately, and I saw how easily it would blend with my marketing major. I guess what I’m trying to say is, don’t take your time here for granted. Try new things. Break away from “cliques.” Expand your interests and find what you

are truly passionate about in this world. High school is your time to experiment and figure out what you are really interested in. By dipping your feet into different things, what you end up liking best might surprise you. You really don’t know what high school will throw at you, but some curveballs may end up leading to a home run.

Mrs. Z

By Jeffrey Peracchio On March 17, Coginchaug had the opportunity of welcoming student teacher Mrs. Jennifer Zettergren into our school. Assisted by Ms. Suchy, she taught various English courses and worked with many students. Prior to teaching at Coginchaug, Mrs. Zettergren was a real estate attorney in MIddletown for 16 years. From this occupation, Mrs. Zettergren developed the knowledge and experience to become an adjunct political science professor at Quinnipiac University for two years. “This is when I realized that I wanted to teach,” Zettergren commented, “but it took a while to make it happen.” Soon later, the students at Coginchaug had the privilege of meeting Mrs. Zettergren. “Her passion for teaching and

Sophomore Gilia José plans to... ...attend a summer intensive with the Rockettes, where the Rockettes members will teach dancers to perfect their techniques in ballet, tap, jazz, and kick-line. ...travel to Florida with her brother, John John, who is playing in the baseball championship for the Wolfpack. “I have high expectations for summer 2014 because I know that it is going to be filled with fun and relaxation.”

Freshman Paige Larkin plans to...

...drive across the US in a rented RV with her family, travel down to Lousiana, and meet the Duck Dynasty family in West Monroe. ...visit amusement parks and haunted towns across the South. ...spend two nights in the Grand Canyon. ...visit Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park. ...shop in the Mall of America. ...travel to Ohio for a Luke Bryan concert.

Freshman Lauren Donnelly plans to... ...play softball for Shorelines Sting ...travel to Rhode Island and New Jersey, where her softball team will compete in tournaments, and to Virginia, where her team will compete in nationals. ...spend her summer pursuing her softball passion by playing 3 softball games every Saturday and up to 4 games every Sunday.

sweet personality made it very easy for us [her students] to learn the content easily,” said senior Katelyn Williams. Mrs. Zettergren was a student of the ARC (Accelerared Route to Certification) program, designed for working professionals who wish to change their career. The difference between this program and others is that it is run at a much faster pace, and her classes were only held on Fridays and Saturdays. She has recently graduated from her school and is currently working in a seventh grade middle school English class in West Haven. “It’s been a great opportunity to compare this to my high school experience at CRHS,” recalled Mrs. Zettergren. Although she was only with us for a short time, Mrs. Zettergren’s positive personality and engaging character created a comforting environment and enjoyable working area that many of her students will remember for a long time. Coginchaug senior Tyler Kovacs had this to say about his former Psych in Lit teacher, “Mrs. Zettergren was a very nice person and always had a smile on her face. She presented the class with a fun approach on what we were learning.” Freshman Lizzie Whitaker plans to… ...attend a 6-week overnight camp in Maine where the familyowned camp hosts activities and sports on a lake.

Sophomore Kenny Gribko plans to… ...camp in Vermont ...rent a beach house in Cape Cod ...stroll down the boardwalk of NJ “It’s a family tradition to go to Vermont in the summer. We have a blast.” Junior Brianna van Eyndhoven plans to… ...visit Holland and France ...see the Eiffel Tower in Paris

crhsnews.org

Bottom of the Food Chain By Nora Khalil

The countdown to summer has begun. Less than week is all that is left of my freshman year at CRHS. As I travel through hallways littered with eager students, I catch snippets of conversations as I pass. The experienced seniors of CRHS discuss their college plans and career dreams. Words like “UNH” or “Southern” drift away from the conversation and settle in my ears, where my young brain draws them in and rattles them back and forth. Each senior in the group shares their plan for the upcoming years, the names of colleges, degrees, and applications bombarding me all at once. But yet, the seniors seem perfectly content. How in the world do the seniors keep track of all these colleges? How, out of all the possible career opportunities available to them, are they able to narrow their choices down to one? I can hardly fathom it. I can never imagine myself in their place, forced to pour my passions into a single career choice out of the thousands available. As I continue past the group of seniors, their discussion melts away. I am only a freshman. I have plenty of time before I have to think about these things, right? I tuck the words of their conversation deep into the folds of my mind and out of sight. I embed the words “college resume,” “dorm,” and “registration,” all foreign concepts to me, under the safety of my thoughts. For now, I am only a freshman. It was extremely daunting to listen to the upperclassmen discuss their future plans. As a freshman, I have no idea what I plan to do tomorrow, much less in the next ten years. I’m still working to figure out my passions and interests, but I’m in no rush. With three long years left of high school, it seems as though a future outside of CRHS is unimaginable. I

sincerely wish that my last three years in high school go by as slowly as possible. I wish to savor each high school memory and take up as many opportunities as I can. There is a common misconception that freshman year in high school is similar to that of Dante’s nine circles of Hell. Many people visualize freshmen as the “bottom of the food chain,” the prey to the predatorial upperclassmen. In popular movies, the freshmen are often portrayed as the punching bags for the older teenagers. In the beginning of my freshman year, I also bought into this false assumption. I believed that the upperclassmen, the seniors especially, were out to get me and all my freshman peers. In reality, I could never have been more wrong. Personally, I found the upperclassmen to be extremely welcoming and kind. Although my opinion may not accurately represent every freshman’s experience at CRHS, I feel that the older students’ approachable attitudes contributed to a fantastic first year. There was no case of “Freshmen Friday” that I had witnessed here. In CRHS, I never felt like the seniors were in any way trying to cause trouble for the freshmen.The upperclassmen often took the younger freshmen under their wing, in a sense, and shared their experiences over the years with us. I appreciate the kind students who reached out to us small, amateur freshmen and displayed amazing character and morality. The highlight of my freshman year would have to be the CRHS soccer season. Every day after school, I looked forward to attending soccer practice. The CRHS soccer girls are extremely welcoming and supportive. I enjoyed all of the soccer games we played. As a team, we were tough and determined,

June 13, 2014 which made for an excellent, exciting atmosphere on the field. CRHS soccer allowed me to develop meaningful friendships with the older students and gave me the chance to learn from them. I was also happy with my freshman classes. Like any other student, sometimes I found my classes a little boring or frustrating, but I can honestly say that I am grateful for the knowledge that the classes taught me. The material that I learned was valuable and useful. Out of all my classes, I fell in love with my global studies class the most. The teacher of this class, Julie Lagace, did an amazing job of teaching the lessons and sharing information in a way that was easy to understand. I have always been interested in social studies and the behavior of society, but this class really broadened my view of the world and helped me understand many of the conflicts that occur today. I was fascinated with the topics because it displayed different ways of life and various cultures. I honestly enjoyed every one of the classes I attended. It was obvious that all the teachers of CRHS did everything they could to see the freshman class do well, and for that I am thankful. Entering the ninth grade is a big change. I have no complaints about my first

5 year at CRHS. I enjoyed every minute of being a ninth grader and wish I could relive it again. I feel like my time as a freshman flew by, like sand slipping through my fingers. I wish my next few years at CRHS to pass as slowly as possible. I

have fallen in love with every part of CRHS. As I grow older, I know I will be faced with the difficult challenge of figuring out the path to my future, but for now, I am just a freshman going on to sophomore year.

Crossword

By Marty Daniels ACROSS: 1. CRHS Mascot 3. League of Nations 9. Billions of years successor (abrv.) 10. Fourth composite 4. Bane of the student number 5. Justifies the means 11. Baby words 6. Small, cylindrical 12. Base x height container 14. Right under your nose 7. Between blue and violet 16. Boxer Muhammad 8. Every fourth year 18. One to look up to 13. Take delight in 20. Builds in dryer 15. June exam 22. Dog of The Thin Man 16. Expression of grief 23. He who would strike 17. “Out of the frying pan, the sun __ the fire” 26. Prestigious 19. Common location championship for ear piercing DOWN: 21. Produced in cigarettes 1. Post-Alpha 24. Friendly greeting 2. “__ and behold” 25. Indefinite article

Vet Brings Novel to Life for Students Students from Ragnow’s By Nora Khalil

After reading Tim O’Brien’s The Things They Carried, CRHS students were honored with a visit from Harold Reid Sterrett III (Rollie) who shared his experiences from the Vietnam War. Rollie (who is CRHS Special Education teacher Mrs. Kim Ragnow’s father) served the Air Force as an officer in Saigon, Vietnam. During his time in the Air Force, Rollie was assigned to the Directorate of Targets and served as a second lieutenant.

English 11 course and Mrs. Melissa Frey’s (film?) elective listened in awe of Rollie’s experience. “When he started telling us about his story, the room got silent,” said junior Justin King. Rollie’s journey through Vietnam was powerful and had a lasting effect according to students. “My presentation’s primary purpose was to enhance patriotism toward our country...to reinforce the importance for each of us to give back to the country through military or civilian service,”

Rollie addresses the class. Photo by Kim Ragnow

(Continued on page 7)

June 13, 2014

Backpacks: Useful or Stressful? By Lauren Melchionne

With the amount of homework given to high school students, their backpacks, carrying the added weight, become heavier as the year goes on. In addition to the backpack weight, some students have to carry an additional bag for sports or P.E. class. “When you do a sport, you have another bag so it adds more weight,” said sophomore Caitlyn Sibiskie. With textbooks and notes filling a student’s bag, a backpack’s weight can range from 16-28 pounds. For a student, lugging that amount of weight every day can be strenuous. “I think for people who don’t have time to do their homework during school, it’s a problem because of binders...and it causes back problems and stress,” said sophomore Hannah Rea. Having a heavy backpack does play a factor in a student’s health. Doctors say that students shouldn’t carry more than 10 percent of their body weight. Many other factors do come into play, such as the location

of where a student carries his backpack. “It puts strain on your back and your neck, and depending on where you carry it (some kids carry it on one shoulder), that’s not healthy,” said CRHS Nurse Mrs. Branciforte. Strain on the back isn’t the only down side to backpacks being too heavy and bulky. “Where I think backpacks are a hazard is in a crowded classroom with twentyfive students...It becomes a hazard for students and teachers tripping on them,” said History/Social Studies teacher Mrs. Lagace. The way some teachers try to battle this issue is by telling the students not to bring in their textbooks every class. Others feel that the use of electronic resources, such as tablets, could help lower a student’s backpack weight. Even the use of their lockers between classes could help improve the situation greatly. “I try to tell my students that they don’t need to car-

ry their book around with them; I’ll tell them when they need it,” said math teacher Ms. Kavanaugh. Though backpack weight is concerning, some people disagree; in some ways, a heavy backpack can be beneficial. “I don’t think it’s a problem because my backpack may be heavy, but it helps to build muscle,” said sophomore Chris Backstrom. As an added bonus, for students who may not walk straight, a heavy backpack may help correct the problem, due to the bag pulling them backwards. “I think it helps your back because it straightens it because most kids walk hunched over,” said senior Cody Troutman. Either way, there are many factors such as electronic books, the use of lockers, the location of where a student carries his backpack, and added bags for sports that can make a huge difference in a student’s life. A heavy backpack can be both beneficial and detrimental to a student’s health.

CRHS French students and their guests from Toulouse, France celebrate in front of the New Britian Museum of American Art (below) Photo by Madame Cashore

Jean Michel in Haiti. Photo from HELO website

Volume 20, Issue 7

French Class Becomes Real By Lauren Melchionne

On April 28, eleven high school students and two chaperones came to Durham/Middlefield for an eight-day stay. They stayed with thirteen host families in hopes for the French students to get a taste of American culture and also for the American students to speak French with native speakers. “It’s a cultural exchange between French students and American students to build a cultural understanding and sensitivity,” said CRHS french teacher Madame Cashore. To start this program, CRHS french teacher Madame Taweh worked with the American Association of Teachers of French, the AATF, to find a school in France that would be interested in this program, and a school in Toulouse, France was. “It’s a lot of time to prepare but very rewarding,” said Madame Taweh. To further prepare for this program, CRHS had to find thirteen families that would be willing to host the French students and chaperones here in RSD13. To do this, the families had to fill out a survey much earlier in the school year to determine if they would be a good fit as a host family. Once the families were de-

termined, planning had to be done. During the school day, the French students would stay with their host student, but outside of the classroom was a different story. The program included field trips to different places such as the New Britain Museum of American Art, the Clinton outlets, CHRS’s Fajita Fiesta, and even an Americanstyle picnic at the Romeyn house. The program went beyond just learning and field trips; there was also a lot of bonding between the French and American students. “At the beginning of the week it was difficult to communicate because she didn’t speak a lot of English, but by the end of the week, we were able to communicate better and build a friendship,” said junior Dena Branciforte. This program started off as a learning experience in which the students were just expected to learn more about the culture and language, but by the end of the week, the students had built such strong friendships that it was difficult for them to say goodbye. Freshman Scott Romeyn said, “When they were all leaving, everyone was crying. I definitely miss him.”

crhsnews.org

Sprint to the Finish

June 13, 2014

At the end of the girls track season, the girls were one of the top teams in the Shoreline Conference. They have been able to keep training strong with the beautiful weather. The girls are now able to see that winning the Shoreline Conference is an achievable goal. At every meet, the girls either placed or won. The season was led by an unstoppable 4x8 team made up of freshman Allie Alsup, sophomores Jessica Drop and Samantha Drop, and junior Bailey Thayer. The 4x8 team qualified for State Opens and Nationals! This report was due before both meets, but see the CIAC website for their final results! Freshman Megan Decker helped the team by gaining a lot of points and consistently placing in her events. Allison Luther will stay involved in track by running for Stonehill College. Next year, the team will be led by the current juniors who are very involved in motivating the team to keep working hard. They will have big spikes to fill as multiple teams and individuals broke school and state records this season.

Serving it Up The boys tennis team gave 110% while on the court for matches and practices. The season has ended even better than the team expected. The boys were able to come out with enough wins to have five of their players advance to States. The boys went 8-12 in the regular season, led by Luke Fowler and Alex Preneta as a strong pair for doubles. The most exciting news of the season was sophomore Kyle Judson who made Shoreline Semifinals as a singles player. It was the furthest that Coginchaug ever had a tennis player advance in the tournament. Kyle Judson has held the best individual record this season by winning matches that helped the team as a whole advance into the Shoreline and State tournaments. Kyle Judson said, “This season has brought our team so much closer together; the season had a truly amazing turn out.” Next year, the team hopes that Judson’s scores will increase as well as his fellow junior Tyler McDonald. They had a great season filled with wins over difficult competitors. They’re excited about how far they’ve made it and hope to replicate the successful season next year.

Serve, Volley, Win

Coginchaug girls tennis team really stayed on a path to success. The season went extremely well with the team qualifying for States with a record of 500. All season, the girls have been focused on making it a memorable one for the seniors, holding a senior night at which the underclassmen gave speeches to the seniors and each senior received an Alex and Ani to remember their last season as a Devil. The season was led by senior Melanie Frank who was their singles one player and helped to gain the team some points. Gaining the points isn’t all a leader does though; the girls turned to senior Molly MacDuff for positivity and motivation. Throughout the season, the girls learned many new skills and improved their mental game on the court. The season was a very successful road, and the girls are hoping next season will be just as or even more successful. Their success and hard work brought the girls closer together. Next year, the team will have many of the juniors step up as leaders. Sophomore Carlie Annecchino said, “The upperclassmen helped to keep everyone motivated. It was a very exciting and successful season.” The girls season ended by making it to round two of States; they worked hard, and the season went better than expected.

Principal Gates and Molly MacDuff enjoy their time in DC.

Photo By Jen Shulten

Photo By Judy Judson

Class of 2014 Farewell Message: What a pleasure it has been for me to be a part of your senior class year here at CRHS. We have enjoyed each other passing in the hallways, attending athletic events, spending several days together on the senior class trip, attending dances and assemblies, witnessing the exemplary talent so many of you possess whether on the stage, in the studio, or on the athletic field, along with meeting many of your families. Each of you is about to embark on many new challenges as you continue to prepare yourselves for “life beyond high school.” As you climb that ladder of success, it is so important that you keep your confidence and always remember who you are and what you stand for. Our society needs young people who will come alive and make a difference in an ever-changing and challenging world. You will work hard! Learn to become a team player because it takes teamwork to make your dream work. Many of you will emerge as strong leaders with the skills necessary to be successful in your careers and in your community. The senior class is very special to me. I am honored that the class dedicated the school yearbook to me and Mr. Ted Lombardo. It holds special meaning to me on many levels. I was a teacher at Coginchaug when it first opened in 1972. That year, my student teacher was none other than Mr. Lombardo. When I left that year to pursue my dream of being a school administrator, TL took over my classroom and began his long and illustrious teaching career. My journey came full circle when the Board of Education hired me last spring to serve as your principal. Hopefully, my contributions to Coginchaug have influenced your thinking and made a small difference here at the school and throughout the community. Thank you for having me, and I sincerely wish each and every one of you continued success and happiness. As you move on, I am convinced our future is in good hands because you possess exemplary character and the highest qualities of morals that will contribute to shaping our society. Fondest regards, Mr. Donald Gates, Principal

Veteran Continued from pg 5

Photo By Marguerite Busey

said Rollie. Rollie was welcomed with breakfast and balloons, communicating students’ gratitude for his service, making him feel valued by CRHS. Rollie noted, “A week or so after my classroom presentation, I received warm, very well written thank you letters from the students, indicating that my message of patriotism and service to our country came through loud and clear.”

COGINCHAUG SPORTS HOME OF THE BLUE DEVILS

June 13, 2014

Volume 20, Issue 7

There’s No I in Team

The 2014 baseball season was not as many expected it to be. With a solid line of upperclassmen and a strong group of captains, many believed this team would bring home a championship title for Coginchaug. Our talent and skill on the team was at an all-time high. Some of our players take the field for travel comp teams as well. Coginchaug junior, John Mormile, plays not only for our own Blue Devil team but also for a comp team in Middletown (Middletown Post 75). As the season began with its first couple of games, it was proven that it was not our skills that hurt us but the chemistry on the field. Our players’ emotions got the better of them, and they slowly began to lose sight of what they were striving for, a championship win. Connor Wenchell, Coginchaug sophomore, stated, “During the beginning of the season, the team chemistry was very low; we only had a few key players who had the drive to win. But as the season went on, I believe that our whole team began to come together and everyone began to show that same drive.” The Devils ended their season with a record of 6-13. “It was a rebuilding year for us,” said Mormile, “we had some young players this year who will hopefully grow to become a powerful team for next season.”

Congratulations to all of our 2013-2014 athletes!

Coginchaug Continues On

Boys Track: Talent and Team Chemistry Lead to State Opens

By Jordan Cowles

The boys track team had a great season, full of breaking personal records and significant improvement. They hope to have the same kind of turnout next year for another successful spring. “Our season was great! We had a lot of people come out for the team and everyone worked the hardest they could possibly work,”

said junior Jake Ober. “Our team chemistry was incomparable, and we all became brothers over the season. We hope to have just as good of a turnout next year.” Wes Benjunas, Alec Bogen, Zach Lein, Tyler Meeker, Jake Ober, Michael Decker, Jack Temple, Chris Brooks and Nathaniel Weir qualified for States. When asked about the

Shoreline track meet, Wes Banjunas said, “We did well; a lot of people broke personal records, and we came in fourth place against some very competitive competition.” At the time of publication, the boys were preparing for States and hopefully State Opens. Congratulations to all boys track athletes on a successful season!

The Lady Devils put on quite a show this past season. With an 11-game winning streak and an overall record of 13-8, the girls proved to their school, community and their state that they were one of the top contenders for both the Shoreline and State championships. Although this year’s softball team only had three seniors, their hard work and pride for their school drove them to achieve an even higher accomplishment than what they imagined. “We hit a rough spot at one point in the year, but we are moving through that now; we are hoping to do well in Shorelines and States,” said Captain Deanna Puchalski at the end of the regular season. After finishing strong, the girls had both Shorelines and States to prepare for. Ranked 34 of 113 in CT Class S, Coginchaug softball is definitely a team to watch out for. “We have the potential to make a powerful impact in States,” says senior Katelyn Williams. “Our team’s perseverance, determination and confidence are far greater than any other team’s. We have already proven to the state that our talent alone has the capability to bring us to the top of the charts, but now it is our time to prove that we can reach even higher limits and be one of the best softball teams to ever exist at Coginchaug.” Unfortunately, the girls lost in the first round of Shorelines but hope to make a strong stand in States. At the time of publication, the girls had made it to the semi-final round in the State tournament.

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Faith Religious Briefs Notre Dame Church Notre Dame Church, 280 Main St., has scheduled its monthly flea market and tag sale for the first Saturday of each month, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Oct. 4. The tag sale will be located in the church hall, rectory garage, parking lot and lawn, rain or shine. Breakfast and lunch will be available. Vendor space is available for purchase. For more information, call Bob Smith at (860) 349-0356.

Friday, June 13, 2014

A19

Great Ideas from Nancy Frede on Exhibiting at Home Shows, Senior Fairs, Kids Events, Holiday Craft fairs

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To Reserve Your Seat, please call 508-380-3737 or email: nfrede@aol.com RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST! Cost is only $10 and a can of food.

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A20 Friday, June 13, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Durham Fair poster contest The second annual Durham Fair poster contest is accepting submissions. The theme is “Good. Clean. Wholesome. Fun.” Entries musts be original artwork. The poster should include the Durham Fair logo and “95th annual Durham Fair” and the dates of Sept. 25 through 28. Deadline for submissions is June 30. The winner will be decided by July 21. For more information, visit www.durhamfair.com or email secretary@!durhamfair.com.

“MAKING MILITARY FAMILIES STRONGER”

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Babysitter class offered Durham/Middlefield Youth and Family Services has scheduled a babysitting training class for Tuesday, July 29, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Middlefield Community Center. The class is for youth entering grades six through nine. Basic childcare information, first aid and CPR training, and more. Limited to 12 participants. A fee is charged. Registration deadline is July 22. For more information and to register, call (860) 349-0258. 85905R

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Friday, June 13, 2014

A21

Seniors

The Middlefield Senior Center Scrabble Group meets Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. at the Middlefield Senior Center. The group is looking for more players. All are welcome. For more information, call (860) 349-7121.

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Applications are being accepted for the Renter’s Rebate program. Required documentation from 2013 includes: 2013 1099 income statement, a copy of the 2013 tax return (if filed); proof of rent paid; utility payment history printouts; proof of interest or dividends from bank accounts, stocks, bonds. Filing dates through Oct. 1. Income limits are: single, $34,101 and married $41,600. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call Amanda at (860) 349-3153.

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The Middlefield Senior Center has scheduled a series of talks on topics that directly affect seniors. Middlefield attorney Edward Lang is scheduled to speak as follows: Friday, July 11 - Hospital observation, what it means in terms of Medicare and skilled nursing facilities, 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 - Power of attorney and living wills, 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 - Planning for Medicaid and use of trusts, 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 - The Probate Process, 1 p.m. R.S.V.P. is not necessary, but appreciated. For more information, call (860) 349-7121.

Hammonassett Beach State Yarn donations 60+ Club day trips Park, the campground and Meigs Point. The trip is free of The knitting/crocheting The 60+ Club has scheduled charge. To sign up, contact St. group at the Middlefield Se- the following day trips. Luke’s at (860) 347-5661. nior Center is looking for Tuesday, July 8 - All You Can donations of 4-ply yarn. The Eat Lobster at Delaney House. Bocce group makes hats, mittens July 23 - Newport Luncheon The Middlefield Senior and afghans to donate to Mid- Cruise and slots. Aug. 17-23 - Mackinac Island. Center has scheduled summer dlefield/Rockfall residents, Sept. 19 - Scallop festival at bocce group, for Tuesdays, be- the Middlesex Hospital Hosginning June 17, 6 p.m. No sign pice Program and residents in the cape. Oct. 14 - Oktoberfest. up is required, just drop-in in nursing homes. For more information and Nov. 6 - Costa Azzurra all back of the Community Cento donate, call the Senior Cenabout the 50s. ter. Games are informal and Beach trip For more information, call run by senior volunteers. No ter at (860) 349-7121. (860) 346-0724. The Middlef ield and experience is necessary. Those Durham Senior Centers have interested in volunteering scheduled a trip to the beach should call the senior center on Thursday, July 10. Senior at (860) 349-7121. For more bus will pick up participants information, call the MiddleThe Recreation Center office has scheduled its sumat the Middlefield Senior Cen- field Senior Center at (860) mer hours for Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ter at 11:15 a.m.; the Durham 349-7121. and Monday, Wednesday and Thursdays, 6:30 to 8:30 Senior Center at 11:30 a.m. p.m., June 10 through Aug. 28. Lunch scheduled at Lenny & Joe’s. Trip includes stops at gan Sun Casino. Tuesday, June 24 - Mystic Aquarium and IMAX movie. Lunch at the aquarium. Wednesday, June 25 - Trolley Museum. Lunch at Village Inn in West Haven. Trips are open to senior residents in Middlefield and Durham. For more information, reservations and fees, call (860) 347-5661.

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A22 Friday, June 13, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Perfection: a good book and a summer’s day

MEDAL AWARDED

What people are reading this season By Diana Carr

Special to The Citizen

The time has come to curl up in the hammock, or perch under your biggest shade tree, with a good book and a frosty glass of lemonade. So just what are people reading these days? The number one fiction book on the New York Times Best Seller List is “The Undead Pool”, wherein a witch must prevent a supernatural war. For non-fiction, “The Future of the Mind” tops the list, predicting future mapping of the brain and stating the case for the possibility of telepathy, mind-controlled robots, and the uploading of memories. And what are the locals up to, book-wise? Patti Holden, a library assistant at the Durham

Ned Ray Cassady, of Rockfall, was honored recently at Lincoln Middle School’s CT Veterans Wartime Service Medal Ceremony. The program was sponsored by State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo. Commissioner Linda Schwartz, Department of Veterans Affairs, presented the medals. | (Submitted by Ellen Cassady)

Jack Reacher thriller series is one way to read away a summer’s day. Public Library, sees a lot of people checking out mysteries and fiction, with James Patterson being an especially popular author. “The Gold-

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finch” and “The Fault in Our Stars” are popular right now, as are travel books in paperback. “People are getting information for their summer vacation,” she said, “and the paperback travel books are easy to take with them.” Holden herself likes historical fiction, with the “Outlander” series being her favorite. “I love these books because I love history and I love time travel,” she said. “The character goes back to the 1700s. “I love to read-I’ve always got a book with me. I especially love to read in the morning, even if it’s just for a half-hour. I have my cup of coffee, and it’s so nice and quiet then.” Carol Herzig, also a library assistant at the Durham Public Library, likes to read before going to sleep at night, and is currently reading “Jamaica Inn”, a book that was written in 1936. “Jamaica Inn” is the gathering place for a group of scoundrels known as wreckers, who sabotage boats, kill the people onboard, and steal their cargo, which they sell illegally. Malcolm Pearce enjoys swapping books with his brother-in-law every Wednesday morning over coffee and pastries. “I read a lot,” he said. “My favorite author is Richard Marcinko. He writes novels based on the real history of some of the operations that occurred when he was with the Navy Seals. I like his books because they are easy reading and exciting and believable, and they’re about events that have happened.” Helen Pearce loves mysteries, reading them in the evenings and on vacations. “I got tired of reading romance novels,” she said. “My favorite author is James Patterson. I like his books because the chapters are short and I’m always in suspense until the end.” John and Christine West are avid readers. They enjoy the Jack Reacher series, The Dresden Files series, and books by local author Kristen Higgins. Christine also loves murder mysteries by authors Lisa Gardner and Carol O’Connor. “Christine reads every day,” John said, “and I like to crawl into bed with cookies and milk and read until I fall asleep.”

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, June 13, 2014

A23

PET ADOPTION

EDUCATION AWARDS

Coginchaug Regional High School’s Alex Markoski was awarded the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Student Leadership Award, presented by BOE chair Kerrie Flanagan, right, at the May 28 BOE meeting. Markoski won the CABE award along with fellow CRHS student Sarah Brady, who was unable to attend the meeting. The two students • Lawn Repair • Thatching • Overseeding were nominated for • Hydroseeding the award by CRHS • Deck Building • Land Clearing principal Don Gates • Excavation & Bobcat Services for showing positive • Home Improvement Contractor • Lawn Mowing leadership qualities • Decorative Patios and Walks • Block Retaining Walls in the classroom and Rob • Outdoor Living Spaces Durham Grant community. Markoski is • Mulch, Stone, Soil Delivered/Installed www.grantgroundscapes.com a two sport captain, a • Tree Cutting & Chipping member of the National “Total yard renovation and much, much more” Honor Society, and Fully Insured HIC #0630530 860-301-7722 active with the Lions club and at the Durham Fair. Markoski will attend Home Improvement the University of Vermont next year. & Handyman Services

Medalla is a shorthair, buff-colored male, almost 3-years-old. He’s always there to greet my Cat Tales volunteers as soon as they walk in the door. He has an easy temperament and looks as if he is smiling. Medalla is a bit overwhelmed at the shelter and would do best in a home with older children and no dogs. He is okay as only pet or with one other nondominant cat. He likes to be petted and would love to cuddle at night. For more information and to meet Medalla, contact Cat Tales at (860) 344-9043 or info@ CatTalesCT.org.

Town Times Service Directory

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Sports Powerhold powers way to Majors title Submitted Kyle Roberts pitched a complete four-hit game as Powerhold defeated Durham Dental 12-2 to walk away as the 2014 Coginchaug Little League Majors champions on Saturday night. Durham Dental struck first in the championship bout. Michael Eisner began the game with a triple, followed by Devon Geogehan’s home run to give Dental a quick 2-0 lead. Powerhold responded in the bottom of the first inning to take a 3-2 advantage of their own. T.J. Isleib got the rally going with a basehit, and Hugh Barrett’s dou-

Powerhold ran away with the Coginchaug Little League Majors title, defeating Durham Dental 12-2 in five innings. | Submitted

ble a mere three batters later tied the score at 2-all. Nathan Strang’s groundout brought home Barrett from third to give Powerhold the lead. Both starting pitchers, D.J. Arnold for Durham Dental and Roberts for Powerhold, quickly settled down for a scoreless second, but the Powerhold offense was back to work in the third. Powerhold’s first four batters safely reached base to take a 4-2 lead, and John Vumback’s two-run double quickly gave his team a power hold on the game, 6-2. A Jeremy Mangiamelli two-out single to plate Terry Murphy in the fourth inning extended Powerhold’s lead to 7-2.

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After his difficult first inning, Roberts proved to be impossible to solve for the remainder of the game. The youngster scattered two hits, six strikeouts, and only one walk through the rest of the contest. Roberts was also backed by a strong defensive effort all over the field. Powerhold’s catcher Barrett threw out Dental’s Geogehan attempting to steal second, and Strang snared a backhanded line drive at third base to rob Dental’s Arnold of a surefire basehit in the fourth inning. The impressive Powerhold offense struck again in the fifth inning, rattling off six straight hits –including base knocks by Eli Block, Isleib, and Barrett’s second double –to help take an 11-2 lead. With only one out in the inning, Strang’s RBI single to

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Friday, June 13, 2014

A25

Strong finishes perfect, 13-0 Summer fun runs Submitted

year, 12 of the Spartans were eighth graders: Turecek, GaThe Durham Recreation Department has sidered) and provides instruction in hurscheduled two summer running programs. dles, long and triple jump, high jump, pole The Strong Spartans com- rofalo, Onofrio, Salemme, DeFun Runs - Tuesdays, 6 p.m., at the Cogin- vault, shot put, javelin, discus, sprinting, pleted an improbable run to Brum, O’Sullivan, Bourland, chaug track beginning July 1. The weekly and relays. Athletes of all ability levels perfection, beating Wash- Griffin Saks, Dan Munro, Ty event is open to all, age groups as follows: are welcome. A fee is charged. Register ington Middle 6-1 and East Ryer, A.J. Kleczkowski, and 0-4 years, 5-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-14 years, at http://www.townofdurhamct.org/ conHampton 15-4, en route to a Cal Pitruzello. Neidmann, T.J. Vallone, Ryan Genest, Kyle tent/28562/27556/27769/ 27781/default.aspx. high school, and adult. spotless 13-0 final record. For more information, contact Dave BelTrack & Field Clinic - July 7 to 11, 6 to Against Washington, the Roberts, and Connor Rulnick 8 p.m. The clinic is open to fifth to eighth lemare at djb06422@comcast.net. 1-2 pitching punch provided served as the team’s only sevgraders as of June (exceptions are conby James Salemme and Luke enth grade players. Garofalo proved to be too dominating for Strong’s foes. Salemme pitched six strong innings, allowing only one run on two hits, before Garofalo slammed the door shut with a perfect seventh inning. The Spartans, held scoreBest Water Best Price MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING less through the first two inQUALITY CARPENTRY LICENSED & INSURED nings, got on the board thanks • ADDITIONS to an RBI single by MacGuire O’Sullivan. Luke Bourland • KITCHENS came around to score after • BATHS reaching base on a double • DECKS J ERRY F INCH earlier in the inning. After (203) 237-3500 “Pool Water Pete” • SIDING 860-704-8312 Cole Neidmann walked to Mountain Spring Water 203-919-2031 • R OOFING load the bases, Danny TureHIC 0629899 cek roped a two-run single to help the Spartans stretch their lead. Strong put the finishing touches on a strong win thanks to a two-out rally in the top of the seventh. FolStonewalls • Sidewalks • Stairs • Pavers lowing a Neidmann single, Chimneys • Brick Work • Tiles • Flagstone Turecek struck again with an Stone Siding • Stucco • Fish Pools RBI double. In the season finale, it didn’t 860-462-3694 take long to see that the Spartans were well on their way 20 Years of Experience to finishing off East Hampton Free Est. HIC# 673801 Fully Insured with ease. Strong jumped on their opponents in the top of the first, plating five runs on hits by Neidmann, Turecek, Garofalo, and Peter Onofrio. As Eric DeBrum and O’SulPAVING Lawn Mowing livan continued to shut down (25+ yrs. Exp.) East Hampton from the pitch860-663-3107 CT REG. #580903 er’s mound, the rest of the Ernie Laudano Spartans continued to inch • STONE & MULCH DELIVERED • Water Problems & Drainage Work towards perfection at the • Hedge Trimming plate. Strong put up three FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED • Lot Clearing • Tree & Stump Removal • Concrete Serving Durham and Middlefield since 1985 runs in the fifth inning, two In Durham more in the sixth, and five in LICENSED & INSURED Call Charlie We work 24/7 the seventh to put the contest out of reach. The win, which not only helped the Spartans to finish THE DIRT GUY perfect, also put the boys into 601R Guilford Road the school’s history books, as Residential Commercial they became the first team to Durham, CT 06422 finish undefeated at Strong. 860-303-0500 “This team is made up of an unbelievable group of young Now Scheduling Interior Fall & Winter Work Your best choice for men,” said coach Ken Vallone. topsoil, mulch, compost Interior Painting “They refused to think of the and so much more! possibility of losing.” Andy Golschneider • (860) 349-3549 While there were only 17 CT Lic. #HIC 606826 Durham, CT www.dirtguy.com total players on the roster this 99802R

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Town Times | towntimes.com

CROSSWORD ANSWER

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Laura Farnsworth, Jessica Robison of Middlefield; SamanEndicott College, Massa- tha Carle, Justin Giambrone, chusetts - Amanda Bedding Kathryn Mitchell of Rockfall. The Coginchaug 2014 Proj- of Middlefield. Western Connecticut Southern Connecticut State University - Melanie ect Graduation Send off is scheduled for Friday, June State University - Benjamin Rogers of Rockfall. 20, 10 p.m., at Coginchaug Anteck, Katharine Conrey, High School. The public is Monica D’aria, Nicole Fekete, Amber Lake, Aaron Markel, Dean’s list welcome. For more information, call Amber Ryan, Olivia Swerling, Eastern Connecticut Noah Ventola of Durham; Bai- State University - Jac(860) 349-7215. ley Berardino, Luke Drenzek, quelyn Benson, Alexander Shoudy, Leah Slawinowski

Graduates

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Chelsea Tuttle of Durham has been named the recipient of the 2014 Jack Kaplan Award in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at Quinnipiac University. Stevie Thompson of Rockfall has been inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society at Rochester Institute of Technology.

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of Durham; Michael Lisitano, William Malcolm of Middlefield. Saint Anselm College, New Hampshire - Mark W. Cronin of Rockfall. Springfield College, Massachusetts - Michael Mastroianni, Jessie Maniscalco, Gretchen Donovan of Durham; Marissa Puchalski of Middlefield. University of New Haven - Emily Carria, Kevin Donovan, Aaron Norowski, Laura Reimer, Jessica Zerillo of Durham; Jennifer Roth of Middlefield; Eric St. Armand of Rockfall.

bring home Barrett made the score 12-2, putting the 10-run travesty rule into play and the league title into Powerhold’s hands. Powerhold’s offense was dominant all postseason, notching 24 hits through two playoff games. Isleib was a perfect 6-for-6 at the plate in postseason play, while Connor Willett (3-for-4), Michael Salley (2-for-4), and Andrel Correa (3-for-4) also made strong playoff contributions.

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Friday, June 13, 2014

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Sprinkles Ice Cream Shoppe Academy DiCapelli Amore Pizza Country Flower Farms East Center Market Filipek’s Kielbasa Frontera Grill Meriden YMCA Neil’s Donut & Bake Shop Scrubbin’ Bubbles West Center Marketplace Dine In Durham Funky Monkey Café Time Out Taverne Grand Apizza North Wallingford Optical Berlin Bicycle Cucaramacara Mexican Eatery Sans Souci Restaurant & Lounge Valencia Liquors

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