February 2006 - The North Central News

Transcription

NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 1
PRST-STD
U.S. Postage
Paid
Palmer, MA
Permit #22
February 2006
Fr ee
In This Issue
• STAFFORD: Kathy Prudden relishes
her place in history ...................... p. 3
• ELLINGTON: Residents speak out on
charter proposals ..........................p. 4
• ELLINGTON: Local students get the
beat at a young age................ pp. 6-8
• SOMERS: Federal funds could fix or
replace Maple Street bridge..........p.11
• SOMERS: Library News ........p. 15
• STAFFORD: USA Boxing punches its
way to successful first year ........p. 22
• STAFFORD: Karting series comes
to the Speedway.....................p. 23
• AUTO: Chevy HHR’s retro design
should be a big hit.................. ....p. 29
• CLASSIFIEDS ........................p.30
*NEXT ISSUE
Editorial/Advertising
Deadline: Feb. 24
(860) 698-9328
Friday Night Fights
Boxers from around the region converged in Vernon on Jan. 20 at the Colony Restaurant for the first of four consecutive Friday
boxing nights as part of the Western New England Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament. Heather Kane, right, of Vernon boxes
Kelly Gibson of Manchster in the 7th match of the evening. Kane came away with the win. More photos, page 27.
Photo by David Butler II
Rising Fuel Costs Turn Up Heat on Towns’ Budgets
By Margo Van Kuren
While area homeowners struggle to
handle soaring energy costs, towns and
school districts are doing the same as they
prepare their annual budgets. Although
municipalities can get better deals on some
energy costs because they can buy in bulk,
huge leaps in the price of electricity, gasoline, and fuel oil are causing plenty of concern.
The level of concern varies from town
to town in North Central Connecticut.
Some towns and school districts report
being 10 to 20 percent over budget, while
an Ellington school official estimated its
budget may be off by as much as 60 percent. Mother Nature has supplied some
relief in the form of milder temperatures
during a good part of January.
Schools and town buildings in Ellington
and Stafford have lowered their thermostats, and the drivers of school buses and
town vehicles have been reminded to minimize idling time. The situation is somewhat better in Somers, where the school
district was able to shift more funds into
heating costs.
“We’re not in as difficult a position as
some other towns,” said Bill Boutwell,
business manager for the Somers School
District. “We were able to make some
adjustments in our fuel budgets back in
September, and as a result, we’re not in too
bad a shape.”
But the district has implemented a
budget freeze (no pun intended) for the
remaining winter months in order to better
track heating costs. “We’re expecting 10 to
20 percent increases in energy costs for
next year,” Boutwell said.
Somers schools have not lowered thermostat settings, or recommended that students wear sweaters. But Boutwell, like
most of us, is hoping the weather stays on
the mild side for the next couple of
months.
In contrast, Anthony Lattizio, director
of business services for the Ellington
schools, is a bit more alarmed. “We’re taking hits all over the place,” Lattizio said.
“The electric rates have increased, our
buses use diesel, and heating costs are up.
The price of fuel oil went up over 80 per-
ENERGY/page 10
North Central News Welcomes New Stafford Readers!
STAFFORD - Continuing a trend of steady growth, The
North Central News is now sending the paper via direct mail to
every home in Stafford, CT.
This is in addition to the existing direct mail into Somers and
Ellington, bringing the direct-mail total to more than 15,000 and
the overall circulation just under 20,000. The North Central
News is also available at more than 100 locations throughout
Somers, Ellington and Stafford as well as Enfield and Vernon.
“Since our inception in 2002, the North Central News
brought back the type of positive, homespun community news
and features that the other publications have abandoned,”
explained Editor & Publisher Gary Carra. “In recent months,
there has been a groundswell of inquiries from Stafford, with
many residents stating that aside from ‘sensational’ issues like
accidents and crimes, no one is covering their town. We at the
North Central News believe there are a lot of great stories in
Stafford that aren’t being told, and we’re going to do something
about it.”
Carra added that the move into Stafford was made possible
greatly in part by the Artioli Auto Group, the official sponsor of
the February 2006 issue.
“As most are aware, the Artioli Auto Group has set up stakes
in Stafford with its Chevrolet dealership,” Carra said. “Knowing
that the Artioli Auto Group is not only civic-minded but interested in long-term relationships with the community, I
approached them with the concerns I had been getting from
Stafford residents about the lack of coverage. In a nutshell, they
agreed, and immediately stepped up to the plate to support our
proposed mailing.”
While the addition of a direct mail to Stafford is new for
2006, one thing Carra says he hopes will remain constant is a lot
of input from the Stafford community.
“Nobody knows a town better than the people that live and
work there,” he concluded. “It may take folks awhile to get used
to submitting items like potluck suppers, birth announcements
and the like again because no other publication has been running them - but we’re counting on them. With the support of
both the Stafford residents and the business community, everybody wins when the North Central News comes to Stafford.”
For more information on the North Central News, visit
www.northcentralnews.org, call (860) 698-9328 or e-mail:
northcentralnews@aol.com
The deadline for advertising and editorial submissions for the
next issue is Friday, Feb. 24, 2006.
NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 19
Seniors
Senior Center Joins with Enfield for Expanded Offerings
Somers Senior News
By Barbara Flebotte, Volunteer
For more information call the Somers
Senior Center at (860) 763-4379. The center is located at 19 Battle St. Programs are
held at the Center, unless otherwise specified.
Travel News. A partnership with the
Enfield Senior Center will provide Somers
55+ with tours throughout this year. These
tours have been arranged so Somers 55+
can take advantage of reduced group rates.
Tour flyers are available in the travel rack
at the Somers Senior Center. Instructions
on the tour flyer will identify the contact
information for sign up. Meeting location
will be the Enfield Senior Center. If
Senior Bus transportation is required for
the handicapped, please call Norma at
763-4379 between 12:00 noon and 4:00
p.m.
The first is an eight-day tour to Ireland
on April 24 - May 1. Travel plans are in
the works for Year 2006, and the travel
rack will soon be filled with new flyers.
Watch for upcoming details on the following combination of one day and multi-day
tours to Boston Flower Show, New York
City, Boston Whale Watch, Water Fires in
6
Providence, Montreal, Maine, Newport,
and more.
Monday Matinee at Somers Library.
The Somers Public Library will be showing the classic love story “An Affair to
Remember” on Monday, February 13, at
1:00 p.m. Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr
star in this poignant and humorous love
story, finding romance with each other on
a cruise ship and vowing to meet again six
months later.
The free Monday Matinees do not
require a ticket and the library provides the
popcorn. For more information on this or
other programs, please call the library at
763-3501.
The library is located at 51 Ninth
District Road in Somers.
Senior Luncheons are Back! We
would like to welcome and invite all
Somers Seniors to share a special lunch
with us at the Somers Congregation
Church, Main Street, Somers, on Tuesday,
February 28.
The cost is $5 and as always the luncheon will be held at 12 noon. Somers residents must make reservations by calling
the luncheon coordinator, Arlene Yarnes, at
749-7387. Please leave your name, phone
L Z a X d b Z
number and how many in your party. If
you signed up at the last luncheon, you
need not call.
Pedi-Care. The next date for this ongoing program of foot care provided by a
specially trained, registered nurse is
Thursday, February 16, beginning at 9 a.m.
Appointments are required and a fee is
charged.
Also, home visits are available. Please
call 763-4379 between 12 noon and 4 p.m.
to schedule your appointment at the Senior
Center or your own home.
Board Of Selectmen, at a recent meeting, re-appointed the following Somers
residents to the Senior Advisory
Committee for the Elderly: Patricia
Bachetti, Elaine Bemont, James Burgess,
Donna Doyker, Barbara Flebotte, Dorothy
Hillman, Myrtle Pixley and Arlene Yarnes.
The chairman of the committee is the
municipal agent, James Burgess.
New Column in the Newsletter.
Recently, a letter was received from David
and Phyllis Gwilliam in which they suggested that a column for questions from
seniors be added to the Somers Seniors
Newsletter. Answers to the questions
would appear in subsequent newsletters.
The Senior Advisory Committee would
like to thank David and Phyllis for their
suggestion. The committee will offer this
feature on a trial basis. An attempt will be
made to provide a response to every question.
Depending on the number and types of
questions, responses will be published in
the newsletter or provided in telephone
conversations to the senders. Please send
your question with your name, address and
telephone number to: Somers Senior
Center, Attn: Jim Burgess, P. O. Box 194,
19 Battle Street, Somers, CT 06071.
Somers Seniors Newsletter is available
at the Senior Center, Town Hall, Public
Library, Plaza Restaurant and on-line at
www.SomersNow.com. Somers Seniors
may request that the newsletter be mailed
directly to their residences by calling the
Center at 763-4379 between 12:00 noon
and 4:00 p.m. with your name and mailing
address.
Important Reminder! The new
telephone number for Senior Bus reservations is 763-4379. Please call Norma
between 12 noon and 4 p.m., Monday –
Friday.
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February 2006 North Central News 19
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20 North Central News February 2006
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Staf for d
Selectman’s Remarks During Comment Period Stun Audience
By Margo Van Kuren
STAFFORD - Contention continued to
be the rule at the Jan. 27 meeting of the
Stafford Board of Selectmen. Although
plenty of business was conducted, the
meeting was most notable for Selectman
Kathy Prudden’s use of the public comment period—usually reserved for residents to voice questions or concerns to
their elected officials—to respond to published comments made by Selectman
Gordon Frassinelli, Jr., and town resident
Chris White.
Reading from a prepared statement,
Prudden questioned Frassinelli’s characterization of the Republican-led attempt to
remove Democrat Gene Julian as a alternate member of the Planning and Zoning
Commission (PZC) as “partisan politics.”
“I guess I completely miss his point,”
Prudden said, “because the nominee for
alternate was a Democrat. I have not considered the appointment of any commission or board member based on family,
business, special interest, or politics.”
Prudden further singled out Stafford
First member Chris White, who, at the previous Board of Selectmen’s meeting, stated that she felt Julian was being unfairly
characterized as a ‘negative force’ on the
PZC.
“Chris, I would like to say that I have
School News
Stafford Schools Exceed Expectations on CMT
I am pleased to announce that we
have received statewide recognition for
our Connecticut Mastery Test (CMT)
scores in grades 4, 6, and 8 for the past
five years. As you probably know, each
district in Connecticut is assigned to an
Education Reference Group (ERG)
based on socio-economic indicators. In
a recently published study, Dr. David
Title, superintendent of schools in
Bloomfield, found that when two of
these socio-economic indicators, number of single parent households and
median family income, were used, they
predicted with great accuracy how districts would perform on the CMT.
Dr. Title found that this data held true
over five years of CMT results in reading, writing, and math. However, he also
found that some districts “beat the
odds,” scoring well above where it was
predicted they would score. Seven districts scored significantly higher than
their predicted scores in all areas over
five years of testing. These districts, in
order, are: Salisbury, Branford,
Simsbury, Stafford, East Lyme, Old
Saybrook, and Farmington.
Administrators, teachers, students,
and parents are to be praised for these
efforts over five years. We hope to continue this trend and perform even better
as we look to a new testing time for the
CMT’s in March 2006, instead of the
previous early fall testing, and expanded
grades for testing, grades 3-8.
Thérèse G. Fishman, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
attended most of the PZC meetings since
being elected to see for myself what was
happening… Gene publicly attacked the
character of the chairman. That did appear
a bit divisional.”
When Prudden was finished, the 60 or
so residents in attendance sat in what
appeared to be stunned silence.
Frassinelli responded, “The public comment period is an opportunity for the public to come forward, not for the board to
make speeches and lecture the public on
issues of dubious merit.” His remarks
were followed by applause from those in
attendance.
“I think it’s bad form for a selectman to
openly attack a citizen for her opinion,”
said White, who was present at the meeting.
After the meeting, Prudden explained
that she felt it was better to read from a
prepared statement than to have responded
angrily in the heat of the moment at the
previous meeting. “It’s a public comment
period. Aren’t I a member of the public?”
she said.
“The election is over.
The
Republicans won,” Frassinelli later said.
“It’s time to get on with the town’s business and stop arguing over old campaign
issues.”
The selectmen’s meeting was preceded
by a town meeting, at which residents
voted to approve an additional alternate for
the PZC, allowing Gene Julian to retain his
seat and Doug Fassett to be added to the
commission. Residents also voted to
table the sale of three town-owned lots
until it was determined whether the proceeds could be earmarked for open space.
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February 2006 North Central News
21
NCNfebpart2
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Staf for d
USA Boxing Punches Its Way To a Successful First Year
By David L. Legere
STAFFORD – Almost one year
since its opening in March 2005,
USA Boxing’s organizers are
viewing the fledgling program
for pugilists as a success. The
program’s director of boxing, and
current Stafford First Selectman,
Allen Bacchiochi first had the
dream of a boxing program back
in 2004.
According to Rick Guiness, a
volunteer
at
the
school,
Bacchiochi was a visionary, who
saw that the best way to deal with
teenage angst was to redirect that
energy into something positive.
Bacchiochi worked on every
detail of the program from finding it a location on Main Street to
getting insurance.
When Bacchiochi was asked
how he felt of USA Boxing and
the subsequent success it has had
with the Stafford youth, he said,
“I’m proud of what we accomplished and of the success for the
kids we trained. We instilled
accomplishment within them to
be better people and better for the
community. The Town of
Stafford can be proud. Some fine
boys are coming from that school
and we should all be proud.”
Patrick Fay, an eight-month
veteran of the school, is just one
example of a kid who has steered
his life in a new direction
because of the program. While
training for a fight coming up in
March, he took a moment to say,
“It’s got me in shape and taught
me how to fight. My parents are
glad I’m doing something positive. I never did any sports
before, but I would like to continue doing this.”
Fay is one of the many young
adults who have discovered
through physical and mental discipline that they can commit
themselves to a positive goal,
toward being the best they can
be. At any one time from 20-30
youth are enrolled in the boxing
program. They range in age from
11 up to early 20s.
Thanks to the efforts of the first
selectman, USA Boxing has done
more for the town of Stafford
than ever imagined. With the help
of Golden Gloves recipient Harry
Figueroa as head trainer, the kids
are learning more than selfdefense, they are learning
respect. “Harry is very disciplined with them. They have to
live by a standard; no trouble in
school or they’ll have a problem
at the center,” commented Lynn
Garvais, mother of two sons,
Travis and Doivin, who are regu-
Monson Road Garage
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USA Boxing - Main Street, Stafford - has been making a name for itself in recent
months.
lars at USA Boxing. Figueroa,
said Rowland Roy, vice president
of USA Boxing, “is one of the
most respected trainers in the
state of Connecticut.”
Not only has Figueroa taught
discipline to his boxers, but he
has brought the gym notoriety
through training champions such
as Juan Cotto, who will be going
to the regional champions in
featuring Clearwater Spas
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Mark Carter, Service Manager
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West Stafford Psychotherapy
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Individual & Group Therapy
Georgia Marie Michalec, M.S.• Christine L. White, M.S.
Accepting new members. Group meets on Wednesdays
from 7-7:30p.m.
CRYSTAL LAKE ROAD
STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT
06076
(860)
684-5700
Missouri, after having already
won both the Connecticut and
New York areas. Figueroa is a
firm believer that by bringing in
boxing to the town of Stafford the
program is giving the people a
better understanding of self
defense, and that is something
that will grow with them throughout the rest of their lives.
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NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 23
Staf for d
Karting Series Coming to Stafford Speedway this Spring
STAFFORD SPRINGS - Wade Gagner
from Wild Thing Karts has announced that
he is bringing kart racing to Stafford
Speedway. Gagner’s kart series will run a
13-race schedule on Monday evenings on
Stafford’s Manafort Mini-Mile, located on
the frontstretch infield.
Wild Thing Karts’ series has a mission
statement which reads: The Monday Night
Kart Series is to promote fun for Drivers
and families in a competitive, safe and
respectful environment with professional
and knowledgeable staff. The goal is to
create a venue to develop driving skills and
foster teamwork for use in racing.
Wild Thing Karts’ series will consist of
a total of eight racing divisions: Tiger
Cubs (full roll cage karts) 5 to 7 year old
kids, Tiger Sprints (full roll cage karts,
must run Firestone tires) 7-11 year old
kids, Outlaws (full roll cage karts, must
run Firestone tires) 11-14 year old kids,
Sportsman 1 & 2 (turquoise/blue plate) 812 year old kids, Junior Gold Plate (animal
motor included) Mediums 15 years old and
up, Super Heavy (no 200 lb driver weight
limit) 15 years old and up, and Senior
Champs (WKA full roll cage karts,
wazoom motor) 15 years old and up. The
first on-track event will be a practice ses-
Resident Troopers Certified for ChildSeat Checks
STAFFORD - The Stafford Resident
Trooper’s office is now able to conduct
Child Safety Seat inspections, available
by appointment. Tfc. Kevin Ryan and
Sgt. Frank Prochaska are now certified
as Child Safety Seat Technicians.
To make an appointment call 6843777 and ask for either Tfc. Ryan
(evenings) or Sgt. Prochaska (days), or
leave a voice mail message for both at
896-3222 ext-8047 (Ryan) ext-8072
(Prochaska). Inspections can be done at
the Stafford Resident Trooper’s office or
elsewhere upon request.
Please bring the child safety seat, any
documentation (e.g. instruction sheet),
and the child who will be using the seat.
Get Creative When the Snow Flies and Snap a Pic
STAFFORD - The Stafford Community
& Civic Affairs Commission presents its
2nd Annual Snow Sculpture Contest. It is
open to “Kids” of all Ages. The contest
runs through March 1, 2006. Take a photo
of your own unique Snow Sculpture and
enter the Snow Sculpture Contest.
To enter, send your photo with your
name, address, phone number, age and
sculpture name to:
Gail Fisher
111 West Stafford Road
Stafford Springs, CT 06076
Photos will be on display at the Stafford
Public Library all winter.
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sion on May 15 with the first race event the
following Monday, May 22.
Gagner has spent the last 10 years in the
kart-racing venue building and promoting
full roll cage karting in the northeast.
Gagner will serve as the race director with
some experienced people to help with running the Monday night series. Chris
Kopec, who was instrumental in helping to
secure Stafford as the host facility, will be
on hand to help with donating his time and
racing experience. Buck Ackley and Paul
Boivin will be tech inspectors, and Bob
Tomaskowicz will be helping where needed.
A minors release will need to be signed
for every person under the age of 18 by
both guardians before the beginning of the
season. Pit pass pricing and racing fees
are currently being finalized and will be
available at Race-a-Rama March 3-5.
Schedules, forms, rules, fees and all
other information will be available on the
Wild
Thing
Karts
web
site
www.wildthingkarts.com. Gagner is also
available at 413-525-1776 after 6 p.m.
J OHNSON M EMORIAL H OSPITAL N EWS
Second ‘Martini
Magnifique’ Fundraiser
Residents Named To
Corporation
ENFIELD - On Friday Feb. 17 from 68 p.m., Johnson Health Network will
sponsor Martini Manifique at The Crowne
Plaza Hotel in Enfield. This event is a
fundraiser to benefit the capital campaign
for the expansion and renovation of the
emergency department.
Johnson Health Network invites local
residents to treat themselves to an evening
of sipping on signature martinis, provided
by Grey Goose Vodka. A range of martinis will be offered, including L’Orange
Cosmo, Le Citron Lemon Drop Martini,
La Vanille Martini, and of course, the
Classic Vodka Martini. Guests will be
treated to an array of gourmet hors d’ oeuvres and elegant jazz music selections by
Pair Extraordinaire.
The cost to attend is $50 per person.
There will also be a cash bar for those
individuals who prefer an alternative beverage. To purchase a ticket or for more
information, call (860) 684-8109.
STAFFORD SPRINGS - Newly elected
members
of
Johnson
Memorial
Corporation include Allen Bacchiochi and
Sharon Uhlman of Stafford Springs;
Christopher S. Howland of Enfield; Harry
G. Levesque, Jr. of Tolland; Scott R.
Lingenfelter of West Suffield; David
Pinney of Somersville; Debbie Roncari of
Windsor Locks; Carol Sibilia of Somers;
and Alan Silver of Enfield.
Robert Hallam, Edward Palomba and
James Persano of Somers; James Makuch
of Willington; Charles J. McKeen of
Enfield; and Rosanne G. Roszczewski of
Stafford Springs rejoined JMC/JMH as
Trustees, following a year’s respite.
Terrence S. Antrum of Vernon; Kenneth L.
Boisvert of Somers; Peter J. Falk of
Enfield; Linda Roberts of East Windsor
and Ilene L. Whitmarsh of Stafford
Springs rejoined JMC Members, following a year’s respite.
J O H N S O N
H E A L T H
N E T W O R K
Welcomes
Plastic Surgeon
COLLEEN JAMBOR, M.D.
ACADEMY FARM
Johnson Health Network is pleased to announce
Landscape & Feed Supply
that Colleen Jambor, M.D., has joined the
Johnson Memorial Hospital Medical Staff and is now
161 Leonard Road, Stafford Springs, CT
FEED FOR:
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Horses
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Small Pets
684-0100
Tolland Office:
359 Merrow Road
Tolland, CT 06084
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Closed Sunday & Monday
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in practice at Johnson Professional Associates, P.C.
Dr. Jambor is available to see patients
at: Northern Connecticut Plastic Surgery
Enfield Office:
140 Hazard Avenue
Enfield, CT 06082
For more information or an appointment,
please call (860) 272-2999
Dr. Jambor received her medical degree from
The George Washington University School of Medicine.
She continued her training with a residency at the State
University of New York at Stony Brook and with both a
residency and fellowship at The Cleveland Clinic.
A member of Johnson Health Network • www.johnsonhealthnetwork.com
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23
NCNfebpart2
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12:33 AM
Page 24
Home
Five Simple Ways To Reduce Energy Bills All Winter Long
According to the National Weather
Service, the winter of 2005-2006 is
expected to be the coldest on record. That
means, in addition to frigid temperatures,
consumers will also be getting a chill when
they open their heating and energy bills.
Jeffrey Mayer, an expert on natural gas,
electricity and energy purchasing, pricing
and deregulation,
offers a
number of
steps consumers can take to control their natural gas
and electricity bills:
• Consult an energy marketer. These
professionals work with consumers to
determine their best energy choices based
on usage, climate, home size and other factors.
• Conservation. For every degree you
lower your heat in the winter, you’ll save
up to 5 percent on heating costs. Wear
warm clothing and set your thermostat to
68 degrees or lower during the day and
evening. Setting the thermostat back to 55
degrees or off at night or when leaving
home for an extended time saves 5 to 20
percent of your heating costs.
• Insulation. Don’t let energy slip out of
doors, windows and attic vents. Make sure
your house is properly insulated. If your
home has the proper insulation for your
climate, you can reduce the amount of
energy needed to heat and cool your home.
Get it checked by a professional and make
sure it’s up to par.
• Be a smart shopper. Through a process
called deregulation, many states allow you
to buy natural gas and electricity from a
provider other than your utility company.
You may be able to lock in a fixed rate for
your natural gas and electricity, allowing
you to know what to expect each month
when you open your utility bill. Much like
a fixed-rate mortgage, a fixed-rate utility
bill helps you stabilize your budget to prepare for the heating season.
For more information on how to control
energy costs, contact an Energy
Consultant at 1-800-785-4373 or
www.mxenergy.com.
Local School Owner Inducted Into U.S.A. Martial Arts’ Hall of Fame
ENFIELD - Jonathan Metcalf, owner
and chief instructor of Integrity Martial
Arts in Enfield, has been inducted into the
U.S.A. Martial Arts’ Hall of Fame as
Instructor of the Year.
Metcalf received this recognition after
16 years of martial arts experience, 10 of
those dedicated to teaching at the Scitico
Plaza in Enfield.
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He studied the martial arts in Taiwan
and Nepal and is one of only 10 people in
the country to be certified as a martial arts
instructor with a degree recognized by a
higher Board of Education. Metcalf
recently received his 4th Degree Yodan
Black Belt conferred upon him by Master
Ken Warner.
In addition, he was recognized as a
Hometown Hero on Fox 61’s “News at
Ten” for Integrity Martial Arts’ efforts
teaching disadvantaged youth in Enfield.
Integrity has donated their services for
several years teaching in local public
school systems such as Enfield, Somers,
Suffield and Longmeadow.
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If you’ve been listening to the news you’ve heard that the real estate market is in transition from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market. This means that there are more properties available to buy and that your property may
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NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 25
Letters
State Should Back Return of NHL Hockey to Connecticut
To the Editor:
Like many Connecticut residents, I
enjoy sports. I also enjoy the thought of
our state going through an economic
revival. Both enjoyments could be satisfied
if our state government were to become
serious about attracting a National Hockey
League franchise to the Hartford area.
A recent article appeared in a Hartford
publication stating that a prominent developer offered to put down $25 million
toward building a new sports arena. The
article concluded that not only private
investors but that the state and local government would also have to help.
The article stated that the arena could be
built over Interstate 84 on city-owned land
at Main and Trumbull Streets. If there was
serious interest in this endeavor, perhaps a
franchise would be interested in locating
here. A task force of state and local business people, government officials, labor,
and interested parties should be assembled
to explore this opportunity.
As I said, I enjoy sports and I also enjoy
the potential for economic development.
With Connecticut lagging almost every
other state in job growth, this arena would
be a boon to the construction industry. Not
only would jobs be created, but tax revenue would also be generated, and ancillary regional businesses (hotels, restaurants, etc.) would benefit. Our kids who
are currently in high school and college,
and who are involved in sports would benefit from such an arena. Families would
Express Yourself!
Send your letters to the editor to: The North Central News, P.O. Box 427, Somers,
CT 06071; fax to: (860) 698-9373 or e-mail: northcentralnews@aol.com
Letters may be edited for brevity or taste. Include a name and phone number for
verification.
also derive a benefit by bringing the family out together to watch their team play.
Peter Bloom, the editor of Sports
Business News and a college teacher
whose courses concern sports economics,
believes that Hartford would be a great
location for a National Hockey League
franchise. He also believes that Peter
Karmanos’ decision to move the Whalers
to Raleigh N.C., was not a smart business
decision. Bloom’s feeling is that the NHL
should “look towards moving one of their
weaker franchises (Nashville and South
Florida) back to Hartford” which he considers “a more traditional hockey market”.
The thought of an improved economic
climate is worth the exploration.
Bill Kiner
Enfield, CT
(The writer is a former state representative from Enfield and a former Democratic
candidate for the state Senate.)
Dance School Raises $10,000 for Hurricane Victims
ENFIELD - Students and family members from the Riley’s School of Dance in
Enfield raised more than $10,000 through
a dance performance and silent auction
held at Enrico Fermi High School this past
November.
Funds from the event were sent to St.
Anthony School in New Orleans so that
they could reopen their doors to students
there. In addition to the monetary contribution the studio organized a collection of
items for the school this past holiday season. Students and their families collected
750 lbs. of school supplies for St.
Anthony’s and donated $850 worth of gift
cards which the school can use to purchase
needed supplies.
“I am very proud of our students,” says
Director K.T. DaSilva. “Our involvement
in this project reflects an important philosophy at Riley’s School of Dance. We try to
teach our students that community
involvement is an important component of
life and that they can make a difference
through their actions, big and small.”
QUALITY DETAIL
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Call Bob at:
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25
NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 26
Education
Asnuntuck Community College awards 42 degrees in December
ENFIELD - In December 2005, 42 students were awarded Certificates or
Associate Degrees at Asnuntuck
Community College. Students who complete their course work for their degree in
December no longer have to wait until
June to be awarded their degree and
receive their diploma. For many students
this opens new job possibilities for them
sooner and/or helps with promotions or
stock options when they return to their
jobs with their degree or certificate.
Asnuntuck Community College traditionally has one of the highest graduation rates
in the CT Community College System.
“We want our students to complete their
degrees and move into better jobs—we’re
proud of our graduates,” said President
Martha McLeod.
Among the local graduates were:
Laura-Ann Alleano, Ellington, General
Studies Associate in Science
Patricia Allen, Enfield, General Studies
Associate in Science
Philip Barrett, Enfield, Business
Administration Certificate and General
Sandra Berryman, Stafford Springs,
certificate in Early Childhood Education
Martha Bowers, Ellington, Computer &
Four High School Seniors Honored as Good
Citizens by Daughters of the American Revolution
ENFIELD-Penelope Terry Abbey
Chapter, Daughters of the American
Revolution of Enfield, is pleased to
announce the names of the local high
school seniors who have been chosen as
recipients of the annual DAR Good
Citizen Award. They are: Krystle Rafferty
of Somers High School, Rosaria Trichilo
of Enfield High School, Jessica Crank of
Enrico Fermi High School and Chantal
St. Laurent of East Windsor High School.
These students were selected for their
outstanding qualities of dependability,
service, leadership and patriotism. At
each school the student most exemplifying
these qualities can be chosen by the faculty and their fellow seniors.
The winners will be presented with
their awards on Tuesday, Feb. 14 at the
meeting of the Penelope Terry Abbey
Chapter, at the Enfield Central Library,
Middle Road in Enfield, at 2 p.m., when
they and their families will be special
guests. Anyone interested in honoring the
good citizen winners is welcome to attend.
Please call the Chapter Regent, Geraldine
Boyd, at (860)253-9970 for more information.
Information Systems Associate in Science
Jessica Briones, Windsor Locks,
General Studies Associate in Science
Samantha Carpe, East Windsor, Liberal
Arts: Fine Arts Option Associate in Arts
Heather Conroy, Windsor Locks,
Associate in Science, Early Childhood
Education
Dirk Dufresne, Broad Brook, Criminal
Justice Associate in Science
Richard Fagan, Enfield, Business
Administration Certificate
Christopher
Fredericks,
Enfield,
General Studies Associate in Science
Christina Gillen, Enfield, General
Marian Harmon, Enfield, Associate in
Science, Early Childhood Education
Beth Hensel, Windsor Locks, Business
Nicholas Hosig, Enfield, Accounting
Amber Keach, Enfield, Human Services
Ellen Kiely, West Suffield, Business
Laura Krah, Enfield, Liberal Arts: Fine
Arts Option Associate in Arts
David Leduke, Enfield Liberal Arts:
Fine Arts Option Associate in Arts
Janice Lepage, Enfield, Criminal
Justice Associate in Science
Melissa-Anne Miner, Enfield, Business
Administration Certificate, Business
Administration Associate in Science
Jillian Morrison, East Windsor, Liberal
Arts Associate in Arts
Julia Oliver, Enfield, General Studies
Theresa Strevel, Enfield, General
Sarah Waltiere, Broad Brook, General
Jia Wang, Ellington, Accounting
Daniel Wilkinson, Enfield, Radio
Broadcasting Certificate
Amy Rudolf Named to Dean’s List
SOMERS - Amy Rudolf of Somers has been named to the fall semester Dean’s List
at Alberston College of Caldwell, Idaho. She earned it by maintaining a cumulative GPA
of 3.75 or higher.
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Sun. Feb. 26 2PM
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NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 27
Regional
Boxers from around the
region converged in Vernon
Jan. 20 at the Colony
Restaurant for the first of
four consecutive Friday
boxing nights as part of the
Western New England
Golden Gloves Boxing
Tournament. At left, Derek
Lussier of Ellington gets a
clean bill of health from Dr.
Joe Mitchel.
Golden Gloves Bouts in Vernon
Trainer Orlando Montalvo of Stamford CT wraps the hand of boxer John Rouddy before
the night starts. At right, Heather Kane of Vernon takes a left jab from Kelly Gibson of
Manchester. Kane came away with the win.
Photos by David Butler II
“Elegant, soulful … pure skating polished
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Phone Charge: 860-525-4500, 203-624-0033, 413-733-2500
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27
NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 28
BOLLES MOTORS
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NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 29
Auto
Chevy’s New HHR Should Enjoy Long-Term Popularity
Chevy’s new HHR has been attracting a
lot of positive attention because of its distinctive looks. According to Chevy, it
draws its styling cues from the 1949
Suburban, but on a somewhat smaller
scale.
Normally, I don’t comment on styling
because it’s so subjective. I have to point
out I like the round tail lights (partly
because they’ll be less expensive to fix
when broken). However, I’m not as wowed
by the overall look as I thought I would be
from earlier pictures. It’s a cute vehicle,
but it’s only going to be
a head turner for the
OCAL
first couple of months
after it’s widely distributed.
Chevrolet officials
acknowledged to me that the HHR is probably going to be most often compared to
Chrysler’s once popular PT Cruiser. (Some
have taken to calling it the “Me Too
Cruiser.”) My initial impression is that the
Chevy is a roomier vehicle with just the
right amount of oomph. I should add,
though, that I haven’t driven a PT Cruiser
since Sept. 9, 2001.
Later PT Cruisers do have more power
but not enough to match comparably sized
engines. The 2006 2.4 liter Cruiser has 150
hp, while the HHR’s 2.4 liter is rated by
Chevy at 172 horsepower. I’m not a believer that more horsepower is always necessary, but a four-cylinder engine in a vehicle that is going to haul all types of material is going to need that extra kick when
it’s time to merge the family onto a fast
moving highway.
Pricing is going to be comparable to the
L
PT Cruiser, also. The base HHR model is
going to sell for just under $16,000 (plus
delivery fee). According to Chevy, one will
be hard pressed to get this car up to the
$23,000 range because a lot of items are
standard, such as a jack for MP3 players,
air conditioning, power windows, power
door locks, power outside mirrors and
remote keyless entry.
Hauling is going to a breeze with the
HHR. It has cargo capacity up to 63 cubic
feet. With the front passenger seat folded
flat, an eight-foot ladder can be stowed. (I
took Chevy’s word on
this because I forgot to
OTION
pack an eight-foot ladder on this particular
trip.)
Storage is also abundant in this car, but there is one flaw that
could quickly prove to be annoying. The
ample storage containers built into the rear
are covered by a removable shelf that can
be used to split storage into two levels. It
also folds in such a way that grocery bags
could be stored so they don’t flop over and
smash the eggs and light bulbs. My complaint is the whole thing is covered by a
mat. When one reconfigures the storage
areas, assuming one is going to fill the
storage areas with stuff, there is no place to
store the mat. During my test drive, it
flopped around in the back. That mat is
bound to get lost or stored in the garage
pretty quickly. Chevy could have developed a more permanent covering.
I have no complaints with the auxiliary
glove compartment built into the top center of the dashboard. It’s going to be a
great place to hide cellular phones, Ipods,
M
Keith Griffin
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CALL BRUNO AT (860) 749-0398.
The new Chevy HHR, on sale since this summer, is enjoying cross-generational appeal
because of its desirable mixture of modern electronics and abundant space combined
with its favorable driving characteristics.
Courtesy photo
MP3 players and other items that frequently seek a home in one’s car but are usually
shoved out of reach in the glove box or
stored under the seats.
To use another cliché, if it walks like a
duck, talks like a duck and quacks like a
duck, it’s a duck. Well, in spite of the
Chevy media website calling the HHR a
sports utility vehicle, this is most definitely a car. It’s built on the Chevy Cobalt platform and it looks more like a beefed up
station wagon (which is in no way a criticism) than an SUV.
One area where Chevy has really hit the
mark is the instrument design. The
tachometer complements the speedometer
in an interlocking fashion. It’s recognition
by Chevy that there is no need to equalize
the two because this is not a sports car.
Heck, the tachometer doesn’t even have a
red line, at least on the automatic transmission model I drove. The standard manual transmission models might.
In spite of my knocks on its looks, I
think the HHR is going to be a big seller
for Chevrolet. It’s got a roomy interior that
can comfortably accommodate a family of
five, plus it’s reasonably priced so young
people will find it affordable.
(Questions and comments about this
column and other automotive issues can
be e-mailed to cars@keithgriffin.com. All
correspondence is answered.)
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(860) 875-0542
29
NCNfebpart2
1/30/06
12:33 AM
Page 30
Classifieds
PISTOL PERMIT
CLASS
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One Day.
Must be 21 years or older.
No criminal record. $95
Also available Trap & Skeet
beginner classes certified
instructor.
Call JIM: (860) 684-7818.
JAMMIN’ JIM’S
MUSIC
For your wedding, party or
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AUTO INSURANCE
Real Good Rates!
Call Mike DaDalt at
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Phone: 763-ISEE (4733)
ALTERATIONS
NEED HELP KOOKING
In Somers, call
ADRIENNE
(860) 763-1164
(860) 763-1908.
The North Central
News Classified Section
BOXED: $24.95
Classified, Up to 30 words: $19.95
(Prices Based On One Insertion Per Issue)
TEXT ONLY! (10 cents each additional word)
MAIL TO: North Central News, P.O. Box 427,
Somers, CT 06071 (Deadline for March Issue-
Feb. 24)
For A Party, Holiday Event Or
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Call Chef Theresa at
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Emergency: 716-2020
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Website: somersnow.com (business)
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NCNfebpart2
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12:33 AM
Page 31
31
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 2
NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 3
People
North Central Publishing, LLC dba
The North
Central News
P.O. Box 427
Somers, CT 06071
PHONE: 860.698.9328
FAX: 860.698.9373
E-MAIL:
NorthCentralNews@aol.com
WEBSITE:
www.northcentralnews.org
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Gary Carra
CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Keith Griffin
Linda Tishler-Levinson
Margo Van Kuren
Deborah Stauffer
PHOTOGRAPHER
David Butler II
INTERN
David Legere
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Brian Carra
Joan Hornbuckle
CIRCULATION
Georgia Michalec
Publisher’s Policy: The
information presented in the
North Central News is presented
for your consideration and does
not necessarily represent the
views of the publisher or its
advertisers. All information is
checked for accuracy but cannot
be guaranteed. Liability for
errors in advertising is limited
to rerun of the ad. Errors in
advertising should be brought to
the attention of the publisher, in
writing, within seven days of
publication for appropriate
credit.
Prudden Proud of Pioneering Political Role
By Margo Van Kuren
STAFFORD - As Stafford’s first female
selectman, Kathy Prudden is justifiably
proud of her new position. “To run for the
very first time and to be elected, to be the
first female ever elected, and to be part of
the first Republican majority in 40 years—
that’s pretty exciting,” Prudden said.
Prudden used to be a Democrat, but
switched parties when
she felt the party was
not open to new ideas.
“You couldn’t talk to
those people,” she said.
“It just felt like no one
wanted to hear from
the average person.”
Prudden’s
views
about Stafford’s previous administration are not likely to cool
the partisan flames that have been heating
up since the election. “I won’t be asking to
have my family members appointed to
paid town positions,” Prudden said. “I’m
the only person who can honestly say I
don’t have a business in the town and I’m
not related to anyone in a power position,”
Prudden said. “I have no biases.”
“Everyone needs to be represented, not
just the special interests,” Prudden added.
The 53-year-old married mother of two
grown children has never held public
office before. “I was involved in working
on some specific issues, like the dog zoning ordinance,” Prudden said. “And I was
driving out of town to work for 20 years,
and I started to wonder why there weren’t
more opportunities to work and shop in
Stafford. I made a conscientious decision
to try to help make a positive change for
our town.”
In the short time she has served on the
Board of Selectmen, Prudden is most
proud of the success she and First
Selectman Allen Bacchiochi have had in
addressing public safety concerns. The
two are in the process of becoming certified under the National Incident
Management System (NIMS), and are
facilitating the development of a safety
plan for the town in the event of a natural
or man-made disaster.
The Civil
Preparedness Advisory Council is up and
running, chaired by Amy Stegall.
Prudden clearly relishes her new position, and has been regularly attending workshops for newly-elected
officials sponsored by
the
Connecticut
Conference
of
Municipalities.
“The workshops are
really helpful,” she
said. “You have to
learn the ins and outs of the Freedom of
Information Act and Roberts Rules of
Order. If you’re not careful, people who
know them inside and out will try to
humiliate you, to trip you up on technicalities. It’s unfortunate to stymie the
progress of the town with that kind of nitpicking and trickery.”
“You could say I’m very opinionated,”
Prudden said with a smile. “I believe in
speaking the truth.”
Chorus Group Invites
New Women Members
Windsor Airmotive
East Granby Openings
STAFFORD - Attention ladies in
Stafford and the surrounding area! Do you
like to sing? Do you miss singing with a
group?
Now is your chance. The Stafford
Community Chorus women’s group,
LadySong, will begin rehearsals for a
summer concert of Broadway show tunes
on 7:30 p.m., March 8, in the music room
at the Stafford Middle School, 145
Orcuttville Road, Stafford. All ages are
welcome; no auditions.
Do this for yourself. Call 684-3482 for
more info or directions.
Find us
online at
www.northcentralnews.org
Kathy Prudden is the first woman to
serve on the Stafford Board of Selectmen.
Photo by Margo Van Kuren
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 4
Ellington
Residents Advocate Charter Change for Better Budgeting
By Margo Van Kuren
ELLINGTON - About 25 Ellington residents attended the initial public hearing of
the Charter Revision Commission on Jan.
24th. “This is a great improvement. I
hear there were only two people at the
public hearing three years ago,” said commission chair Joe Wehr.
The Town Charter is basically a town
constitution, laying out the rules that govern the town.
One of the most controversial issues
facing the commission is whether to combine town maintenance services with
school maintenance services: currently
two separate departments. The town side
is overseen by the Board of Selectmen,
while the Board of Education oversees the
school maintenance department. Some residents argue that this results in duplication
of services, as well as extra costs. Instead
of combining resources, each department
has its own staff and equipment: snowplows, stockpiles of sand and salt, mowers,
and other items.
“We don’t need two separate units purchasing things that overlap,” said Board of
Finance Chair Robert Pagani.
Combining town and school mainte-
nance services would not extend to internal custodial functions like cleaning.
However, the issue of which entity—the
town or the school board—would have line
item authority for school maintenance
would have to be ironed out.
Former First Selectman Dennis
Milanovich also spoke on behalf of combining the departments. “My personal
belief is that the current system is outdated,” Milanovich said. “There are tens of
millions of dollars worth of buildings to
take care of, which sets up a structural conflict. It pits maintenance against educational quality, and that’s an unfair choice to
give the Board of Education. Cuts in maintenance services become a revenue source
in difficult times.”
First Selectman Michael Stupinski
agreed. “I’m putting all my support behind
combining the maintenance of town buildings and school buildings,” he said.
A number of residents also spoke in
favor of the idea. “The current form of
government is dysfunctional,” said Gary
Feldman. “I’d like to get away from the
two-board system.” Feldman, a member of
the Ad-Hoc Pinney House Preservation
Committee, also recommended other
changes to the charter which would make
it more specific in delineating the duties of
various agencies.
The other major issue before the
Charter Revision Commission is whether
the town should consider switching to a
town manager from of government. In
that model, an elected town council hires a
professional town manger that oversees
the day-to-day operation of the town.
Another option is to hire a town administrator, who would have less authority but
would also be trained in locating and
applying for state or federal grants, for
example.
“I’d like to see exactly what we are
gaining and what we are giving up if we go
to a town manager,” said Selectman Nancy
Way. Many residents echoed those sentiments. “There should be a published list of
the pros and cons,” said Ed Wysocki.
Wehr stressed that the commission is in
the very beginning stages of considering
these issues, and that whatever it recommends will go to a town meeting and referendum before being put into effect. The
Charter Revision Commission will meet
on the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7
p.m. at the town hall.
“There will be a citizen’s forum at every
meeting,” Wehr said. “We invite the public to attend, to participate, and to contribute.”
Maher Suede Joins ECHN Surgeons
ELLINGTON - Maher Suede, M.D.,
has joined the general surgical staff of
Eastern Connecticut Health Network and
the surgical practice of Laureen Forgione
Rubino, M.D. Their office is located at
945 Main St., Suite 105, Manchester. The
phone number is (860) 645-1232.
Dr. Suede is certified by the American
Board of General Surgery and by the
American Board of Surgical Critical Care,
and has years of experience in laparoscopic surgery. A resident of Ellington, Dr.
Suede earned his medical degree at the
Damascus University School of Medicine
in Damascus, Syria. He completed general
surgery residencies at Monmouth Medical
Center in New Jersey and at New York
Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, N.Y. He
was then awarded a fellowship in surgical
critical care at the University of
Connecticut School
of Medicine, completed at Hartford
Hospital.
Dr. Suede managed all aspects of
critical surgical and
trauma care in a 12bed
Step-Down
Intensive Care Unit at
Saint Francis Hospital (a multi-specialty
group in Hartford) from 1997-1999. He
then started a general surgery practice,
working in an emergency room in
Damascus and operating in many private
hospitals there. He was the director of surgical critical care at Al-Assad University
Hospital in Damascus, and established a
bariatric surgery center in that city.
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2) How to register old or new stock certificates?
3) Whether annuities are appropriate for you?
4) How interest rate movements affect the markets?
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 5
Ellington
Local Students Get With The Beat from An Early Age
“It’s easy to play any musical instrument: all you have to do is touch the
right key at the right time and the
instrument
will
play
itself.”
- J.S. Bach
band students and Cheman instructs sixth
grade. They remain instructors for the
same students while at Windermere for
consistency and to get to know each student better. Fifth grade students are introduced to the band program in fourth grade
Fifth grade beginner musicians at when they attend orientation prior to enterWindermere Intermediate know someday ing the Intermediate School. Over the
they will know this as true but for now summer they decide on an instrument to
simple tasks such as knowing how to hold play and are offered several options of
the instrument, how hard or soft to blow or renting or buying an instrument through
even how to hold their lips is all so very local music stores. Most people rent. Fifth
new. At Windermere,
grade students take
Sharon Bigge and
lessons once a
John Cheman share
IN THE SCHOOLS week. After several
the job of teaching
months of lessons,
beginner musicians
they come together
how to touch the
as the Beginner
right key at the right time.
Band and meet every Tuesday.
“Learning music is a foreign language,”
John Cheman, now in his 13th year in
said Bigge who has been at Windermere Ellington, directs the Intermediate Band,
for 30 years. She and Cheman not only also called the sixth grade band. Most stuteach music to 33 kindergarten through dents improve greatly from fifth grade.
sixth grade classes but also direct Beginner “This is the biggest growth of maybe their
Band, Intermediate Band, Fourth Grade career,” said Cheman. Intermediate Band
Chorus, Fifth and Sixth Grade Chorus and meets twice a week during recess. Cheman
give instrument lessons. An additional full- believes meeting twice makes a big differtime person is needed to alleviate their ence. “You can capitalize on something
load, however, this has not yet happened you introduced two days ago.”
because of budget cuts.
The Beginner Band has 127 members
This year Bigge instructs fifth grade while Intermediate Band has 59 members.
Deborah Stauffer
Due to the full academic curriculum, band
meets during recess. Cheman said recess is
important to a lot of students and he finds
many do not return to band from fifth
grade because they do not like to miss
recess.
Lessons are given to students on a rotating basis during the school day so they do
not miss the same class work every week.
It can be a difficult balance for some students between their academic responsibilities and their music commitment.
“The discipline of learning music fosters higher order thinking skills, a sense of
responsibility, camaraderie, and is a vital
skill that has direct links to math and science,” said Bigge.
Frank
Milbury,
principal
of
Windermere, encourages students to participate in the band program at his school.
“Band provides opportunities for individuals to express and enhance their love of
music as participants in this demanding
and highly skilled art form,” said Milbury.
“These musicians develop lifelong rewarding skills and enrich our culture through
musical performance.” The Intermediate
Band performs in a winter and June concert and the Beginner Band performs in
June.
Ellington’s young band musicians then
Steve Edwards gives some final directions
to the Ellington High School Jazz Band
before their concert in December.
move on to Ellington Middle School under
the direction of Steven Edwards, who has
been teaching in Ellington for 10 years. He
recently completed his Master’s Degree in
conducting and is also the band director at
Ellington High School. He spends his
early mornings at the middle school and
late mornings and afternoons at the high
school.
Currently there are 85 members in the
SCHOOLS/page 6
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 6
Ellington
Students Get a Good Musical Foundation in Ellington
Above, Intermediate Band members practice under the
direction of John Cheman. At left, Steve Edwards directs the
Ellington Middle School Band during their concert in
January.
Fifth grade students, Joe Taft and Anna
Schofer play their french horns while
instructor, Sharon Bigge looks on.
(continued from page 5)
middle school band. They meet twice a
week as a full band while woodwinds and
brass meet separately once a week. Many
students also participate in Chorus. Both
Band and Chorus meet during the first
class of the day and those who do not participate have a study hall. Some band
members, up until last year, were also able
to participate in Jazz Band but unfortunately it is not available this year for stu-
dents due to budget cuts. Vocal ensemble
was also eliminated.
“ I was disappointed when I arrived in
Ellington to find the Jazz Ensemble and
Select Chorus were eliminated at the middle school,” said new principal David
Pearson. “We are working hard with the
Board of Education to see if we can get
those cuts restored to next year’s budget.
For many students, those discontinued
ensembles were the key reasons they look
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forward to coming to school and are critical to their overall academic success.”
EMS Band performs in a winter and spring
concert.
After two years of working on their
instruments at the middle school, many
students then move on to the Ellington
High School Band. Band at the high
school is a one-credit course. The academic demands on students at the high school
level leads to a drop in members. “I’ve lost
my best kids due to academics,” said
Edwards.
Members of the concert band also play
in the marching band and are invited to try
out for the Jazz Band. There are 63 members in the EHS Band and 25 members in
the Jazz Band. In addition, there are chamber groups that meet separately on their
own time. These groups are the flute
ensemble, clarinet quartet, saxophone
quartet and percussion ensemble.
The Marching Band assembles one or
two weeks before the start of school in
August for Band Camp. Freshman students spend time getting acquainted with
marching, with the upper classmen as their
role models. They march in the Ellington
Fire Parade, Four Town Fair and Big E
Parades in the fall and in the spring perform in the Memorial Day ceremony and
parade at both Crystal Lake and the center
of town. The full band and ensembles also
perform at a Veteran’s Day ceremony and
various other town functions as requested.
Cut out from the budget last year was the
Pep Band and Color Guard. Edwards is
unsure if they are back in the budget for
this coming year.
Edwards challenges his students and
likes to choose music that is challenging to
different sections at different times. “I
want the kids to enjoy music for what it
can offer emotionally and technically,”
said Edwards. He also encourages students
to have private lessons. Many of the musicians at EHS enter competitions such as
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 7
Ellington
Band Students Raising Trip Money
NCCC’s, CT Eastern Regionals, New
Englands, Plymouth State University
Honors Band, UMASS Honors Band and
CT All-State Band.
Some EHS students have gone on to
college to major in music. Neil Rinaldi,
principal of Ellington High School, has
strong feelings about music. Rinaldi has a
music background and is a former president of the Connecticut Music Educators
Association. “ I view any and all music
programs as a necessity to what it means
to fully educate a student in today’s society,” said Rinaldi. “Studies have shown that
students who participate in music programs do better on the SATs.”
Every other year Ellington High Music
Department travels and this year the
Freshman Chorus, Chorale and Vocal
Ensembles in addition to the Concert and
Jazz Bands will be attending and competing in “Music Festivals” in Nashville,
Tenn., April 21-23. Music students have
been fundraising all year to help defray
costs.
The EHS bands and Chorus members
presented a musical evening for family and
friends in December. The Jazz and
Concert bands along with the ensembles
played superbly. It seems like just yesterday they were learning how to touch the
right key at the right time from Sharon
Bigge and John Cheman. How far these
Ellington musicians have come. Bravo!
Be sure to check out other happenings
in Ellington’s schools by visiting their
website at www.ellingtonschools.org.
Experience has helped make The Nail Spa a local favorite - hands down.
Bench Will Honor Former Principal’s Memory
ELLINGTON - Staff and friends are
planning to purchase a bench for the foyer
of Center School to commemorate Ross
Zabel’s years as principal. Zabel loved his
time in Ellington and always enjoyed hearing about former staff and their families
after he retired. For those who worked
with him, his smile and sense of humor
brightened each and every day. Zabel was
an educator, mentor and friend. His mem-
ory will always stay in our hearts.
To make a contribution please send
your check to: Nancy Parciak,
Windermere School, 2 Abbott Rd.,
Ellington, CT 06029 by Feb. 24. Please
make checks out to Nancy Parciak.
More information will follow on the
Ellington Public Schools website regarding the date/time of the dedication at
www.ellingtonschools.org/whatsnew.htm
The Nail Spa Celebrates Its 15th Year in Ellington
ELLINGTON - Celebrating its 15th year
in Ellington, The Nail Spa offers full service
nail care, unique manicures including glass,
silk and acrylic and now featuring gel artificial nails. A day spa, it is best known for its
customer service and outstanding products.
The spa has expanded its service to
include pedicures, facials, therapeutic massage makeup and waxing. The Nail Spa’s
unique atmosphere is a welcoming and com-
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 8
Education
Possible High School Restructuring Draws Strong Interest
The following are the minutes of the
Jan. 9, 2006 Board of Education meeting.
The Board of Education met in the
Somers High School Media Center for its
Jan. 9 meeting. It was a joint meeting
among the BOE, Selectmen, and Board of
Finance who agreed to become part of a
consortium with George Warner representing Somers.
Due to the number of people in the
audience the Board meeting was moved to
the auditorium.
Restructuring
Dr. Vespe made a presentation on
restructuring giving history, rationale and
plan. Attempted to clarify the role of
Headmaster, Dean and need for Athletic
Trainer. Popularity seemed to prevail taking away from the focus of jobs and duties.
Audience Participation
Number of comments made that the
restructuring plan is designed to eliminate
the High School Principal. Number of
comments that the restructuring committee’s recommendations were not followed.
Number of comments concerning the
elimination of the Athletic Manager in that
the job couldn’t be done by anyone else.
Comments were made by parents, students, teachers, citizens and past administrators.
Dr. Vespe recommended to the Board to
delay decision so that more thought could
go into the decision.
Student Reports
The winter edition of Scriptura has been
published. Midterms start on January 18.
Senior class outing to Fenway Park is
scheduled for June 9.
Retirements
Wendy Peterson from SES and Bob
Sheehan from MBA have announced their
retirement. Board accepted with regrets
and thanks.
Calendar
In 2006/2007 the elementary school
will be working on moving their early
release days from midyear to Fall since
CMTs are now in the Spring.
They will also be looking at the 7 days
for elementary versus secondary school
release days.
Cooperative Preschool To Host Open House
SOMERS - The Somers Cooperative
Preschool will hold an Open House on
Wednesday, Feb. 15, to enroll students for
the 2006-2007 school year. Former members may register from 6 – 6:30 p.m. while
new members may register from 6:30- 8
p.m. A snow date has been set for
February 16.
In addition to registration, the open
house will provide families an opportunity
to meet the teachers, explore the class-
rooms and learn about how the
Cooperative environment operates.
Refreshments and art projects for the children to make will be available.
The Somers Cooperative Preschool is
nonprofit and accredited by the National
Academy of Early Childhood Programs.
For more information about the Preschool
or the open house call Sue at 749-8301 or
visit us at www.Somersco-op.org.
Enrollment
Current and past enrollment data table
was revised with the inclusion of a column
noting special ed numbers.
Presentations
J. Gonyea, M. Clarity, A Phillips, J.
Gieras, E Quagliaroli, M. Macaluso, and P.
Goduti who are our Social Studies teachers
from the three levels presented a comprehensive look at their curriculum and the
many wonderful things they do. The presentations ranged from lecture, handing
out materials, PowerPoint, and hands on
laptop use by the board. The enthusiasm
shown by the teachers was very evident.
M. Mayo and A. Poitras from the
Business department presented their program indicating all the work that is done
under the auspices of Business. The course
offerings under Business compliment the
total course offerings for students. The
program has grown with Somers students
being recognized for their work in competitions.
Superintendent’s Report
State notified us that our teacher certification and licensure mandated data review
was received and that Somers has met
requirements.
High school students participated in an
afternoon of music and good conversation
at St Joseph’s Residence. Good character
building exercise.
Due to rising oil heating costs, gas
prices, and a 22% increase in electricity
rate the Somers school district is in a conservative budget freeze. Administrators
have been asked to delay expenditures
until we have a good handle on dollars
needed for the remainder of the year.
Mr. Peter Micari has agreed to remain
as interim Assistant Principal for the
2005/2006 school year.
Hospital Auxiliary Accepting Scholarship Applications
MANCHESTER - The Auxiliary of
Manchester Memorial Hospital is now
accepting applications for scholarship
funds from area students pursuing careers
in a health-related profession. Those eligible to apply include high school seniors or
students currently enrolled in an accredited program of study in a medical/technical
field who reside in Andover, Ashford,
Bolton, Colchester, Columbia, Coventry,
East Hartford, East Windsor, Ellington,
Glastonbury,
Hebron,
Manchester,
Mansfield, Marlborough, South Windsor,
Tolland, Vernon, Willington, and other
towns served by ECHN. Applicants will be
evaluated based on the application, academic standing, financial need, and written recommendations.
Applications must be received by
March 31, 2006, and are available through
the guidance office at area high schools or
the Volunteer Services Department of
Manchester Memorial Hospital, 71
Haynes St., 860-647-6841. Instructions
and detailed information will be included
with the application.
E-mail your education and school news to:
northcentralnews@aol.com
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 9
Regional
MOMS Clubs Offer Support, Friendship for New Mothers
By Margo Van Kuren
Two years ago, Erin Gaskell was an
apprehensive new mother who had just
moved to Somers.
“I didn’t know a soul, and I was so
happy to find the MOMS Club. It was
exactly what I needed. I made a lot of
good friends, and so did my daughter. I’m
so grateful it was here,” she recalled.
Gaskell is one of many mothers who
sing the praises of the non-profit, nonpolitical group whose purpose is to provide support for at-home moms, including
moms who work part-time or work from
home.
“Years ago, there was always someone
to talk to because almost all moms stayed
at home,” said Gaskell. “Now, so many
mothers work, it’s hard to find other moms
to do things with that include the kids,
too.”
Kim Winter founded the Stafford
MOMS Club after driving back and forth
to the Manchester chapter for several
months.
“I highly recommend it for moms who
feel isolated at home,” Winter said. “It
was the best thing that ever happened to
me. It got me out of the house and in
touch with other moms and their kids.”
The international group has 2000 chapters in the United States, and more than
100,000 members in dozens of countries.
In addition to playgroups, the club
sponsors field trips and other activities.
Recent outings have included ice-skating,
and visits to local libraries, the Lutz
Children’s Museum in Manchester, Elm
Volunteers Needed for Domestic Violence Shelter
ENFIELD - The Network Against
Domestic Abuse of North Central CT is
looking for volunteers to help with a variety of positions. Volunteer opportunities
include working with children in the shelter, shelter support, office support,
fundraising, community projects and other
various tasks. There is currently a great
need for daytime volunteers.
All volunteers must go through the
Volunteer Training Program. This is a 21hour certification program that covers the
many issues surrounding domestic violence including the dynamics of abuse,
criminal court and legal systems, child
abuse and neglect, safety planning, defining family/domestic violence, risk analysis, stalking, and working with children.
Classes begin March 2 and continue for
seven weeks. All classes are held on
Thursday evenings from 6-9 p.m. For an
application or more information please
call Sue Kucienski, at (860) 763-7430.
Knoll Farm, and the Butterfly
Conservatory in Deerfield, MA.
“We just bundle up the kids and go,”
Gaskell said. “It’s a lot of fun.” Pot-luck
picnics and playground visits are popular
summertime events.
Gaskell emphasizes that members may
choose to do as many, or as few, things, as
they want.
“There’s no pressure,” she said. “It’s a
comfortable, informal group.” The clubs
have business meetings once or twice a
month. Of course, children are invited.
Each chapter of the MOMS Club has a
goal of sponsoring at least one service
project annually to help children. Both
the Ellington and Somers groups “adopted” needy families at Christmas, providing
all the food for a holiday meal, as well as
presents for the children. The Stafford
group raised money to ensure that every
emergency vehicle in town is equipped
with pediatric thermometers. Other service activities have included raising money
for active-duty military service personnel
in Iraq, visiting people in retirement communities, and making Valentines for hospital patients.
But even more than helping others,
members say, the moms are there to help
each other. “If someone has a new baby,
or is ill, the other moms stop by with meals
or offers to baby sit,” said Anita Overgaard
of the Ellington MOMS Club.
Many chapters have websites where
members can stay in touch and get help
and advice from each other. “We just had a
big discussion on the website about naps
and bedtime rituals,” said Gaskell. “It was
really helpful to learn what other moms are
doing.”
The Somers group also sponsors a
monthly “Moms’ Night Out,” where moms
get together for dinner and conversation.
“We are always welcoming new members,” Gaskell said. The Somers MOMS
Club holds business meetings on the 4th
Tuesday of every month from 9:30-10:30
a.m. at the Parks and Recreation Building.
There will be an Open House for people
interested in joining the Stafford MOMS
Club on Friday, Feb. 24th, at 10:00 a.m. at
the Stafford Public Library.
“Just walk right in, and bring the kids,”
Gaskell said. “We have plenty of toys for
them.”
Erin Gaskell of the Somers MOMS
Club can be reached at (860) 698-9618.
For more information on the Ellington
club, call Anita Overgaard at (860) 8712073. Kim Winter of the Stafford club
can be reached at (860) 684-1684.
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 10
Somers
Somers Fire
Department Plans
Citizens Fire Academy
‘Poster’ Children
From left, The Grammar School at
Somersville students Henry
Marshall, Jeffrey Mayotte, Alexa
Cambi, Madison Jung, (accompanied
by Dr. Paul Mengel, Head of School
and Walter Summers, Somers Fire
Marshall) display posters they made
to raise fire prevention awareness.
Courtesy Photo
SOMERS - The Somers Fire
Department will be running a Citizens
Fire Academy to show how the fire department runs starting on Tuesday, Feb. 21.
The academy will run four weeks and will
be held on Tuesday nights and will be
about two-and-a-half hours in length.
There will be a variety of topics covered
such as basic fire science, vehicle rescue,
and fire prevention. The format will consist of both lecture and hands on classes.
The academy will be limited to 12 Somers
residents over the age of 21. Anyone who
may be interested in this new program can
call Lt. Glen Reynolds at 749-7626 or email at glen.reynolds@somersfire.org
Planning Helped Some Towns Keep a Handle on Energy Costs
E
S
XX
R
E
M CORNER OF O
RTES. 190 & 83
SOMERS CENTER
N
SO
cent,” he added, even though the district
pays about 40 or 50 cents less per gallon
than most residential consumers.
Lattizio expects the district’s energy
costs to top out at almost $200,000 over
budget. “With the upcoming reval we
may need to ask for even more than that,”
he said. “We’re talking about a total
increase of 50 to 60 percent.”
In attempts to manage costs, thermostats in school and municipal buildings in
Ellington have been lowered by 2 degrees,
and more weatherproofing measures have
been taken. “We’re telling people to be
sure to turn off lights—the same kinds of
things you would do around your house to
conserve energy,” Lattizio said. “Of
course, we would never do anything that
would compromise the learning environment.”
Ellington Director of Public Works
Peter Michaud is just beginning to look at
the actual numbers for his department in
preparation for the upcoming budget season. “I don’t have the exact numbers yet,
but our costs will have increased by roughly the same percentage as the school district’s,” he said. “The exact extent of the
cost overruns won’t start showing up until
April or May.”
In the meantime, results of conservation
measures have been mixed. “We have so
many offices, and so many thermostats.
Everyone’s comfort level is different,”
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Michaud said. “It’s hard to control.”
Stafford Town Administrator Michael
Waugh says that while energy costs are
expected to be over budget, the town and
the schools are working together to reduce
energy costs.
The town and the Board of Education
are looking into a program sponsored by
the
Connecticut
Conference
of
Municipalities, which would allow them to
buy electricity in bulk. “We can do better
working together than each of us fending
for ourselves,” Waugh said.
“So far, with heating oil, we’re only
about 10 percent over budget,” Waugh
said. “We were able to lock in at a good
price.” Electricity is expected to be about
15 percent over budget. “All we can do is
keep hoping the weather stays warm,”
Waugh added
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 11
Somers
Federal Funding Will Repair or Replace Maple Street Bridge
By Linda Tishler Levinson
SOMERS — The town is applying for
federal government assistance for the road
work and repairs caused by last October’s
flooding.
Town officials met with representatives
of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency Jan. 25 to review the application
College Scholarships
Available
SOMERS - The General Federation of
Women’s
Clubs
of
Connecticut
(GFWC/CT) is offering memorial scholarships to women pursuing a higher education.
To qualify for the scholarship, all applicants should have a minimum 3.0 grade
point average and have completed two
years of undergraduate study from an educational institution. The deadline for the
application is Feb. 14, 2006. This deadline
is strictly enforced and incomplete applications will not be considered.
For applications and further information, please contact Tammy Wilson,
Scholarship Chair of the Somers Women’s
Club at 749-3440.
process. The town is eligible for reimbursement for road and bridge repairs for
the Maple Street bridge, according to First
Selectman David Pinney.
“We have good prospects of significant
assistance from FEMA in that regard,”
Pinney said.
The town also is working to prevent
future flooding in the area. The engineering review of the Maple Street bridge and
the Somersville Mill property is under
way.
“We’re greatly encouraged by the
appropriation from the U.S. Congress for
modifying or replacing that Maple Street
bridge,” the first selectman said. He hopes
Pick Up Sweets in Time
for Valentine’s Day
SOMERS - Come to the 13th annual
Anything Chocolate Baked & Homemade
Goodies Sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Feb. 11 at
the Somers Congregational Church, 599
Main St., Somers. This bake sale offers
bars, breads, cakes, candy, cookies and
pies full of chocolate. Or, pamper yourself with hot chocolate chip pancakes for
only $2.50.
Somers Inn Restaurant
(860) 749-2256
Corner Rt. 190 & 83 • Somers, CT
the $2 million appropriation will help
reduce flooding in the area and make full
occupancy and use of the mill once again
possible.
In other business, the town was scheduled to consider increasing the funding for
a new tanker truck for the Fire Department
and on increased tax relief for the elderly
at a Feb. 2 Town Meeting.
Last year the town appropriated
$275,000 for the tanker truck. Its price has
jumped $77,000 since then. “The price of
steel is higher,” Pinney said. “Now we’re
looking at a price tag of $352,000.”
The senior citizen tax relief proposal
was brought to the Board of Finance by the
Board of Selectmen last week. As proposed, it would have cost the town $89,000
in lost tax revenue, the first selectman said.
The finance board asked the selectman to
return with a proposal that would bring the
effect on town coffers down to $45,000.
Also under consideration by the town
are two housing development ideas for
senior citizens.
The Planning Commission held a public
hearing Jan. 26 on an age-restricted housing development for the Somersville area
north of Main Street. Several neighbors of
the proposed site expressed opposition.
The hearing was continued to Feb. 9.
In addition to that development proposal, the selectmen met with the Somers
Housing Authority to consider sites for
income-assisted housing for seniors.
While the town has learned of possible
funding and grant sources for construction
of this type of housing, the town would
have to provide the land, Pinney said.
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February 2006 North Central News 11
NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 12
Somers
Somers’ Boards Vote To Join Consortium of Municipalities
SOMERS - At a joint meeting of the Somers’ boards of
Education, Selectmen and Finance, held on Jan. 9, a discussion was held on the merits of the town’s boards joining The Consortium.
The Consortium, a broad alliance of elected town
boards from a host of municipalities throughout
Connecticut, comes in response to the growing wave of
taxpayer discontent and local budget defeats. The rate of
budget rejections remains high, while local property tax
rates increase at around 5 percent per year.
At the same time, overall municipal employment
declines and existing programs are squeezed out of budg-
ets in town after town, victims of unbridled compensation
and other state interventions into the town’s local budgetary affairs.
The Consortium’s focus is primarily on the cost-management side of the equation. Its mission is to press for
return to the local level of a greater ability to manage key
elements in local town budgetary affairs. The platform
planks are all common threads of the legislative agendas
of the three major municipal advocacy organizations –
Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM),
Council of Small Towns (COST) and Connecticut
Association of Boards of Education (CABE) – and call for
leveling the playing field under binding arbitration, raising the cost thresholds on capital projects under prevailing
wage laws, and prohibiting new mandates placed on
towns until the state government meets its own existing
funding commitments to the towns under current law.
Currently, there are 77 towns represented by 100
municipal boards that comprise the Consortium. At its
meeting, both the Somers Board of Selectmen and Board
of Education voted to endorse the Consortium by becoming neighbors. The Board of Finance approved it at its regularly scheduled meeting on Jan. 23.
Superintendent Presents Plan for Restructuring Somers High School
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improvement initiatives the board has been
looking for over the past several years.
Citizens spoke in favor of the principal and
for keeping the athletic manager position,
as there was concern dispersing the duties
of the athletic manager to the administrator
and support staff would be too overwhelming and affect the quality of the athletic
program.
Vespe, after listening to comments and
concerns, proposed to the Board of
Education in a subsequent budget workshop session, an increase of $13,792 to the
proposed 2006/2007 budget to allow for
the athletic manager position, provided the
budget passes and no additional cuts are
required. The board is struggling with a
level funded budget.
While this minimally meets students’
needs, it does not provide for improvement
opportunities or new programs. Vespe will
also recommended to the board that the
decision on the restructure plan be delayed
for 45 days in order for him to meet with
various groups and citizens to share and
gather information.
B
MI E
NE
M s
I’ ur
Yo
BE
E
MIN
months to 12 months; curriculum specialist teachers to support all departments in
the highs school; an athletic trainer to
address health and safety needs; and additional secretarial support. The proposal
called for the athletic manager position to
be eliminated and duties dispersed
throughout support staff and the administration due to financial constraints.
Based on the comments heard by the
board on the restructuring plan they
requested from Vespe, it was evident many
people were unaware of some of the
ALWAYS
SOMERS - During a recent Board of
Education meeting, Angelo Vespe, superintendent of schools, presented a high
school restructuring plan. The goal of the
plan is to improve support and services for
students to better prepare them for the
challenges they will face after graduation.
The restructure strives to build on
strengths while addressing improvement
opportunities.
The plan proposes two administrators
with specific shared responsibilities,
increasing one administrator from 10
Hours:
Monday 8:00-1:00 • Tuesday 10:00-8:00
Wednesday 8:00-5:00 • Thursday 10:00-8:00
Friday 8:00-5:00 • Saturday 10:00-4:00
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 13
Somers
Cleaning Up
After Mother
Nature’s
Strong Winds
Throughout the
Northeast, strong winds
toppled trees and
downed power lines midJanuary, leaving thousands without power. In
Somers, Department of
Public Works employees
David Dobosz (left) and
Robert Haughn clear
roads strewn with debris
throughout the day and
take a closer look at a
fallen tree which hangs
precariously close to
power lines on Mountain
Road in Somers.
SOMERS BAPTIST CHURCH
From the desk of
Pastor Russ Wight
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860 749-2771
Evening Worship
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Pastor R
E-mail somersbaptist@cox.net
Wed: 7:00 pm
Prayer Meeting
or pastorruss@cox.net
13
NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 14
Somers
Recreation Department Offers Programs Physical & Cerebral
VIOLIN & FIDDLE LESSONS
Children & Adults – All levels
Flexible hours – days or evenings @ the
Somers Community Center
$18/1/2 hour private lesson
$10/45 minutes group lesson (3 persons
min)
Instructor: Rosemary Edgar 749-5768
Violinist Rosemary Edgar brings her 15
years of experience as a musical educator
to the Somers Recreation Department.
She has taught in the Columbia and
Manchester school systems, Ricardo’s
Music and Arts Center in Vernon, Kid’s
Academy at the Podunk Bluegrass Festival
and is also a member of the Manchester
Symphony Orchestra. This is a great
opportunity for youth and adults to learn
violin or fiddle without having to travel.
Class days and times are flexible and can
be arranged with Rosemary. All classes
are held at the Community Center For further information and to register, please
contact the Recreation Department @
763-8231 or Rosemary Edgar @ 7495768.
YOGA
Somers Community Center Auditorium
Adults/Teens
Tuesday evenings, 6 - 7 PM
Six-week program that runs continuous-
Free Gift
Wrapping
ly and may be joined at any time
Fee: $48
Instructor: Diana Ricci
The gentle flow of Yoga is suitable for
beginners and experienced students.
Classes include warm-ups, postures, yoga
breathing techniques and a period of deep
relaxation. Instruction is thorough and
down to earth with demonstrations and
assistance provided as needed. Bring a
blanket or yoga mat and come share the
many benefits of Yoga!
FENCING
Learn the noble art and sport of fencing
This beginner class will introduce the
fundamental aspects of foil fencing,
including footwork, basic offense and
defense. By the end of five weeks students
will be fencing and ready to move on to the
more advanced foil or maybe try epee or
saber fencing.
Provide your own equipment (we can
provide information on where to purchase
it) or rent it from us.
Ages 12 and up.
Course fee is $50 for 5 weeks or $10
lesson and equipment rental is $40/session.
Advanced/ Beginners and Open
Fencing Class: Saturdays 10 a.m. – 11:30
a.m.
T
February Is The Month
To Show Someone Special
How Much You
Come
Love Them.
In S
Lily’s Jewelry Box
ee
’s New
What
Somers Community Center Gym
Upcoming class dates:
February 4, 11, 25
This class is limited to 20 students.
Register early.
Instructor: Paul Sise, who is certified
internationally as a Prevost d’ Armes and
as
a Level 3 Coach by the US Fencing
Association’s Coaches College held at the
US Olympic Training Center in Colorado
Springs, Colo.
A limited number of individual lessons
in foil, epee, or saber, will be available to
more experienced fencers who are enrolled
in the class for an additional fee.
Individual lessons will be given after the
day’s group instruction is concluded.
CO DO KWAN – TAE KWAN DO
Open Instruction:
Wednesdays & Fridays: 6 – 7 p.m. & 7
– 8 p.m.
Saturdays: 12 – 1 p.m.
Kibbe Fuller Community Center
Registration packets are available at the
Recreation Office. For further information,
please contact Mr. Coelho, certified
Kukkiwon instructor at 851-9036.
After School Tae Kwon Do
The Somers Recreation Department &
Co Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do are offering
the following classes at The Kibbe Fuller
Community Center, 619 Main St., Somers.
After School Program - Grades K – 5:
Monday - Friday 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Classes Include: One hour homework,
one hour Tae Kwon Do instruction
After School Program - Grades 6 – 12:
Monday - Friday 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Classes include: one hour homework,
one hour Tae Kwon Do instruction, one
hour leadership team.
A registration packet is available at the
Recreation Office. For further information,
please call Mr. Coelho, certified
Kukkiwon instructor at 851-9036.
THE WRIGHT BOATING COURSE
L.L.C.
CT Certification in Safe Boating and
Personal Watercraft, 8 a.m. – 4pm, March
11, Kibbe Fuller Community Center.
Instructor: Kathleen Wright Gilbert Cost:
$60/student (includes Boater’s Guide &
Basic Boating Book) Course approved by:
NASBLA and the DEP Boating division of
CT. Ages 10 and up. Walk –ins welcome
Need at least six students to hold class.
Course set up: Six hour lecture, halfhour review, one hour test, one hour lunch
(it is strongly recommended the student
also study for test during this time).
Passing grade of 80 percent needed for
certification) One free retake provided at a
time convenient for instructor and student.
Please contact the Somers Recreation
Office to register and for further information.
BABYSITTING
February vacation week: February 21,
22 & 23
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Fee: $20
Instructor: Arlene Yarnes
Location: Kibbe Fuller Community
Center
Class min: 10 max: 16
This program will enable young adults
to confidently handle the responsibilities
RECREATION/page 18
48 South Road, Rte. 83, Southfield Corners, Somers, CT (860) 763-2022
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• Stonewall Kitchen specialty foods,Tea
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NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 15
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Cartooning, Library Trivia & A Visit from Mother Goose
Bob Weber’s Cartoon Workshop
2:30. Questions in this game will be about topCartoonist Bob Weber will visit the library ics such as picture books and chapter books,
during school vacation week. His Cartoon authors, Caldecott and Newbery Award winWorkshop is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Tuesday, ning books, the care of and parts of a book and
February 21. Children should bring along a library-related questions. Join us for some fun.
51 Ninth District Road • Somers, CT 06071
pad and pencil in order to follow the simple Prizes will be awarded.
(860) 763-3501 / Fax: (860) 763-1718
A Visit From Mother Goose
steps to draw their own cartoons. The workEmail: somerspl@biblio.org
shop will also include a game of “pictionary”
Mother Goose herself will visit
Website: www.SomersNow.com/library
and a raffle of the cartoons Mr. Weber draws the library on Wednesday, March
Coming Soon!
during the workshop. Participants should be at 15 at 10:30 in the morning.
In just a few weeks, audio books will be available to
least six years old. Teens are welcome. It is She
will
entertain
Somers residents to “borrow” for your computer or MP3
not necessary to pre-register for this workshop. preschoolers with stoplayer. Use your Somers Library card to log on, browse the
Library Trivia Quiz
ries, songs and rhymes.
list of audiobooks, and download the one you want.
Two other school vacation programs will be All preschoolers are inviteAudiobooks work on any desktop computer and portable
held on Wednesday, February 22. Children in ed; registration is not required.
device that supports Windows Media-based service. The
grades 1 through 3 will play Library Trivia Parents might want to bring their cameras
audiobook collection will be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can Quiz at 1:30. Grades 4 through 6 will play at along.
download audiobooks whenever and wherever you want them! To find out
Pajama Storytime
more about eAudiobooks stop by the library for a quick start guide.
Pajama Storytimes for February and March will both fall on the 14th of the month. For the
Spring Booksale
Monday Matinee
Valentine’s Day program children may wear their pajamas as usual or wear Valentine colors of
The Friends of the The Somers Library will show the red or pink. Stuffed animals are always welcome. Stories are aimed at the three-to-six-yearSomers Library will classic film “An Affair to old age group. Both programs will run from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m. and registration is not required.
hold their annual Remember” on Monday, February 13
spring
booksale at 1 p.m. Cary Grant and Deborah
Trivia Game Night
Delivery for Homebound
March 31, April 1 Kerr star in this poignant and humor- Adults and children are invited to come to the
One of the services which the library provides is
and 2. There will be ous love story about two people who library 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15, for a fun-filled the delivery of books and other items to those who
a wide variety of meet on an ocean liner and fall evening playing Book Lover’s Trivial Pursuit. are unable to get to the library because of illness,
book categories including fiction, deeply in love. A tragic accident pre- We’ll set up teams and combine the fun of Trivial age or disability. This service is available on a
mystery, literature, history and more. vents their rendezvous six months Pursuit with the exciting world of books, authors long-term or temporary basis. Somers residents
The Friends will be collecting books later and the lovers’ future
and literary characters. Refreshments will be pro- who are in need of this service are asked to call
for the sale on Saturday, March 25 takes an emotional and
vided; registration is not required.
Francine Aloisa at 763-3501.
from 9 a.m. - noon at Piedmont Hall. uncertain turn.
Start cleaning out your bookshelves The movie is free
Hours:
and donate those “treasures” so that and open to the pubMon-Thurs: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday:
1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
others may enjoy them. All proceeds lic; registration is
Friday:
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Closed February 20,
benefit the Somers Public Library.
not required.
Saturday:
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Presidents’ Day
Frank’s
Landscape
Construction LLC
&
Banquet Facility
145 Main Street, Somers
(860) 749-5060
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— AND —
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15
NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:43 PM
Page 16
C ustom S ilkscreening
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60 Sunshine Farms Road Somers, CT 06071
(860) 749-6549
NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:44 PM
Page 17
S T R E T C H Your
Adver tising Dollars with the
February
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We KEPT the same, LOW advertising rates.
To find out how the North Central News can you help
you improve your business, call us at:
(860) 698-9328 or e-mail: northcentralnews@aol.com
•
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Workout room and cardio decks
Televisions in front of the cardio equipment
Nautilus equipment
Free weights
Computer bikes
Elyptical machines
Stair climbers
Treadmills
Lifecycles
Locker rooms
Air conditioning
Training and diet analysis
High-performance sun tanning
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Call today 860-749-6961 to schedule an appointment.
Investment Advisory Services and Securities offered through Tower Square Securities, Inc.
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17
NCNFEBPART1
1/29/06
11:44 PM
Page 18
Somers
Booster Club Continues Selling Cards for
Retailers, Grocery Stores, Etc., To Raise Funds
SOMERS - The Somers Booster Club
will continue to sell cards for retailers,
grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations in the area.
This fundraiser is a continuation of the
holiday program and will continue until
the end of the school year in June 2006.
There are several ways to order cards.
You may come to the Somers Public
Day
of Relaxation
Library on
Thursday
nights, from 5-7 pm,
$250
send an order Intro-Special
in with a high school student marked Booster Club, mail an order
to P.O. Box 815, Somers, CT 06071 or
email
Kim
Papenfuss
at
kpapenfuss@cox.net and then send a
check made out to Booster Club to P.O.
Box 815, Somers, CT 06071.
Preschool Children Sought as Role Models
SOMERS - The Somers Early Start
Preschool has openings for non-special
needs children for the 2006-2007 school
year. If your child will be between the
ages of 3 years, 8 months and 4 years, 8
months by September 1, 2006, and you are
interested in having your child considered
as a role model, contact the Special
Education Office (749-2270 Ext. 2201) no
later than Monday, Feb. 6.
In order for children to be considered as
role models for the reverse mainstreaming
program, they must participate in a screening on Friday, Feb. 10, from 10-11:30 a.m.
at the Somers Elementary School. There is
a monthly tuition and parents must provide
transportation. If you have concerns about
your child’s growth and development, you
are also encouraged to contact the school
at the same telephone number.
Recreation Department Plans Annual Valentine’s Dance Party
associated with child care. This three-session course will involve infant care and 1st
aid along with fire, home and phone safety. A portion of the course is also geared
towards the older sibling who is “home-incharge” of their brother or sister. Because
the course is condensed into six hours,
attendance is mandatory to receive your
Somers Recreation Babysitting Home-InCharge Certificate. Please register with
the Recreation Department for this program. A minimum of 10 students are
required to hold this class.
SOMERS RECREATION’S 2ND
ANNUAL VALENTINE’S DANCE
PARTY
Children ages Pre-kindergarten through
5th grade
Saturday, Feb. 11, 2006 1 – 4 p.m.
Kibbe Fuller Community Center
Admission: $2 and donation of a nonperishable food item.
Music, games, crafts, face painting,
snacks & more!
Make your own Valentine card, dance
contests, hula hoops, limbo and a light
show!
Last year we had a great time and collected more than eight boxes full of food
for our local food pantry. This year, with
the help of our local Girl Scout Troops,
we hope to top the fun and the donations.
Please pre-register with the Recreation
Department
@
763-8231
or
somersrec@yahoo.com prior to the dance.
Admission will be collected at the door.
SPRING & SUMMER
RECREATION TRIPS
Please contact the Recreation Office for
info and to register for the following trips:
Pricing on the baseball trips was not
available at the time of publication.
Red Sox Trip: Saturday, September 9th
vs Kansas City
NY Yankees Trip: Saturday, August 12
vs Los Angeles
Boston Trip:
Saturday, June 17 $74 per adult, $66
per child ages 3-11
Includes: Round trip transportation,
Boston Duck Tour, Fenway Park Tour,
Shopping and free time in Quincy Market,
driver tip.
HERB &
GIFT SHOP
Full line of herbs and
herbal products.
Also, gourmet food
products.
54 SPRINGFIELD RD.
SOMERS, CT
(3/10 of a mile North of the
Somers Inn on Rt. 83)
860-749-0839
87 Main Street (Route 190) Somers, CT 06071-1822
Phone: 860-763-2762 • 1-800-US-LINDA
Fax: 860-763-5682
www.avictoriansentiment.com
Established 1989
A NOTE FROM THE BIRTHDAY GIRL ...
It all stems from her childhood- or so they say?
2005 marks the end of 49 years of good times
and sad times. All in all- I don’t believe, if
given an opportunity- that I would go back into
Day of Relaxation
time via a “quantum
leap” to change one thing.
$250 Intro-Special
I looked forward
to celebrating my JUBILEE
on November 29.During these recent months, I
have spent some time reflecting on my journey
and my purpose. For those of you who have
just met me, you can not truly say “I know that
girl!” Today, I will share a few insights.
On April 9, 1953 my Mom, Leila Louise, at
age 15, married her 19 year old sweetheart,
Lawrence Joseph Siebert. Between the ages of
16 to 22, my Mom bore 5 daughters. On
November 18, 1962, we as a family watched
the classic movie- “The Wizard of Oz”. After, I
remember standing with my rosary beads
swinging them like a toy…perhaps I was just
expending some nervous childhood energy?
My Dad came up to me, and gently, asked me
to “STOP” and then told me that the beads
were “HOLY”. I don’t believe I knew what
“HOLY” meant, but, I did know what “STOP”
meant. He kissed me good-night and went out
with our family friend.
November 19- was a Monday, like so many
schools days (I was in the 2nd grade) I would
begin my day with eggnog and hot cereal, with
Dad. He would go to work; I would walk to
school with children from the neighborhood.
This Monday was different; neither Mom, nor
Dad woke me with a kiss. I awoke with the
aroma of pancakes and I could hear people
talking. For some reason, I had butterflies in
my stomach. I got out of bed and went to the
kitchen, “Mom, where’s Daddy?” No one
answered my question. Once, my sisters and I
ate breakfast; we were gathered into our bedroom. My Mom was already sitting on one of
the twin beds by the front windows when my
sisters and I walked into the room. Mom was
crying; watching her cry, made me cry; we
were all crying. It was a cacophony of tears.
“Mom what’s wrong, why are you crying?
Where is Daddy?” I spoke with one breath. I
knew deep inside something was wrong. How
is it, that a 6 years old girl can be so sensitive
to a Mother’s sorrow?
With courage and trepidation, my Mom spoke,
“Daddy went to Heaven- to live with God”. It
all stems from her childhood. Or so they say?
Today if you came to my home- there’s lots of
windows and lighted French doors, a radiator
in every room with lots of lace. It’s a place
where people feel safe. There’s lots of room to
laugh and to cry. The kitchen is everyone‘s
favorite room and breakfast our favorite meal
time experience, that often lasts past noon All
my sisters share the commonality of staying in
our pajamas, for as long as we can. We all
honor and respect Mom and admire her
courage.
My purpose in life is to show people the art of
relaxation and reflection.
In closing, to nourish our souls with laughter
and tears. To celebrate today- as though it were
my last day And by chance, if today is my lastbecause, I do love my God- I know- I will see
my Dad again……
Why? Because of my Faith…And what is
Faith: The substance of things hoped for,
The evidence of things I cannot see!
So I do know:
“Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
There is a land that I know of
Sung in a lul-la-bye…”
Thank you for allowing me to share!
Love, Linda Louise LaCasse
Colonial Candles, Yankee Candles
Burt's Bees All Natural Skin Care Products
Greeting Cards from Marian Heath,
Caspari and Leanin' Tree
Willow Tree Angels & Keepsake Boxes
Children's Books and Gifts
and Much More
Photographers
6th Annual Regional Juried
Piedmont Photography Show
April 28-30
For information - prospectus
go to Somersnow.com
or send SASE to
Somers Cultural Commission
600 Main Street
Somers CT 06071
attn: Neil
CASH AWARDS!
25%
OFF
Colonial Candle
Fragrance of the
Month
Fresh Baked
Bread

February 2006 - The North Central News

Transcription

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