Local News - The Plymouth Connection
Transcription
Local News - The Plymouth Connection
The Plymouth Connection Volume 9, Issue 2 • February, 2015 © Presrt STD ECRWSS US Postage PAID southington, CT Permit No. 12 Local Postal Customer Connecting Plymouth, Terryville and Pequabuck Save the Date - 2nd Annual Maple Festival Plymouth Police - Scam Alert To all of the citizens of Plymouth please be advised of various telephone scams that are occurring locally and nationally. If you happen to receive a telephone call from anyone claiming to offer you prize money be wary. You may be told you won an amount of money, possibly up to $5 million dollars, in addition to a car (BMW, Mercedes…). THIS IS A SCAM!!! You will be asked to send a sum of money, anywhere from $200 on up, and will be given instructions to go to a local store (CVS, Walgreens, ect…) where you will be encouraged to send money via Western Union, a pre-paid card, a Walmart2Walmart transaction, or a Green Dot / MoneyPak transaction. Again, please DO NOT send any money. The people calling you asking you to send them money in return for this promised fortune many times have a middle-eastern accent. The phone numbers come from all over the country. The scams range from someone stating they are a representative from “Mega Millions” claiming you won the jackpot prize to someone from the IRS demanding you send them money with the threat of a pending arrest. These people are skilled in manipulation, coercion and overcoming your objections. They will promise you enormous amounts of money and will prey on your fears. Please be aware that the IRS will never call you via telephone. Also, if you are fortunate to win any lottery or sweepstakes, you will not be asked to send them money. Please understand that if it sounds too good to be true, it is. I hope this is helpful. Pass the word on to friends and family. Thank you, Officer Bilotto, Plymouth Police Department The Facts about Plymouth’s Fiscal Department and What Happens Next Councilman Tom Zagurski taps a sugar maple at the 2014 Maple Festival. Circle the date on the calendar for this year’s 2nd annual Maple Festival to be held March 7 on the Plymouth Green. Watch syrup boiling on an outdoor fire, tap a tree, sample maple products, and try lots of fun kids activities. More information will be in the March Plymouth Connection and at www.plymouthct.us. New This Month! Growing Up Straight by Susan Huff.... pg. 4 Hometown Heritage by Jerry Milne...... pg. 8 Sports Writer, Christopher Griffin...... pg. 23 The DSS Bus is Coming! The Town of Plymouth Human Services Department is hosting the state of CT Department of Social Services “bus” on Friday, February 6th from 11 am-3 pm. There will be CT DSS staff on site who can help with any difficulties you are having with your DSS benefits! (Including Access Health) They will have access to their computer network and will give you the face to face service without having to drive to one of the offices. The bus will be in the parking lot at the Plymouth Town Hall, 80 Main St, Terryville. You do not have to be a resident of Plymouth to attend. Appointments suggested, all others will be first come first served, call Plymouth Human Services 860-585-4028. In the event of inclement weather, check local TV stations for cancellations or call the number above. Fuel and Utility Assistance Available Are you behind on your utility (CL&P, Yankee Gas) bills? Does your household have an emergency need for deliverable fuel (oil, pellets, coal)? If your household meets income requirements, you may be eligible for assistance to prevent utilities from being shut off. Don’t wait until it is too late! If you have a shut off notice, or are more than a month behind, contact Human Services Office at 860-585-4028 for more information. I must begin this month’s update with a heartfelt “Thank you” for all of the support the community has given me over the past couple of months. I would especially like to thank the members of the Democratic Town Committee who organized a statement of support and involved members of the Republican Town Committee. The members of the two parties came together as citizens of our great community, all working toward and supporting a common goal to make Plymouth a better place as it continues to move forward. I know that by now you have all read, seen on TV, or heard about the arrest of our former comptroller. Although this is the beginning of the Due Process portion of the investigation, it represents another obstacle that the town can put behind itself. We continue to work with the FBI and provide them with whatever they need to complete its investigation. Working with the FBI and the IRS during the past few months has made it very difficult for me to feel comfortable talking about what was going on or releasing any information, not knowing if anything I said would help or hurt the process. Now that they have made the investigation public, this ordeal is a little easier to talk about. However, we all need to remember that in this country ‘due process’, the idea of innocent until proven guilty, is the right that we are all entitled to, and we should keep that in mind. It is not our job at Town Hall to spend time worrying about the FBI investigation, but rather it is our job to focus on repairing the damage, getting everything in order, and moving on. One of our top priorities right now is working on our budget for the upcoming fiscal year, beginning July 1. Ann Marie Rheault, our interim comptroller, started that process earlier this month and is working with all of our departments to process their requests. Our Grand List will also be completed soon, and we can start to calculate what the budget and mill rate will look like. Additionally, the Board of Education has started its budget process, and, hopefully, we will be able to get together and present a budget that will be fair to everyone. One thing that we should all try to keep in mind is that every part of the budget impacts someone. Even if it doesn’t affect you or me directly, we should always keep in mind that we need to take care of everyone in our community. The most important part of every decision is to ask, “Is it in the best interest of the Town of Plymouth?” It is unclear right now how the missing $800,000.00 will affect us, or what portion, if any, we will be able to recover. Bear in mind that this all started four years ago, and it wasn’t until this past October that I was able to stop it. The losses have been spread out over four budgets, and the missing money represents only one part of the problem on which we are working. We are still working daily with Marcum, which is the Continued on page 5... Clothing Sale Table of Contents... Terryville High School 33 North Harwinton Avenue, Terryville, CT 06786 January 30th - February 1st “Brand Name” Men’s and Women’s Apparel & Accessories ... plus so much more. Everything $5 - $25 Does not include special buy items (first quality, irregulars, returns) Friday, 2:30pm-9pm • Saturday, 9am-9pm Sunday, 9am-9pm A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Terryville High School Senior Class www.retailsales101.com Visa. Mastercard and Cash Accepted. Animal Rescue Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Business, Chamber & Rotary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-18 Church News & Outreach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Classified. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Counselor’s Corner, by Bill Hamzy. . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Engaged Family Gaming by Stephen Deutzmann. . . 11 Financial Advice by Julia Weston. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Growing Up Straight by Susan Huff. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Health & Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-22 Hometown Heritage by Jerry Milne. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 I Remember When, by Dick Foote. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Leisure & Activity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23 Letter to the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Library News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25 Local News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12 Plymouth Historical Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Plymouth Human Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 20 Plymouth Park & Rec. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 School News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Terryville Fire Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13, 16 www.plymouthconnection.org Our Oil Prices Are The Lowest Around! FOOT PROBLEMS? Get the professional treatment you deserve! Treat your foot and ankle disorders quickly with Dr. McHugh and Associates, P.C. “Voted TOP DOC by CT Magazine” Here at Dr. McHugh and Associates our team of expert podiatrists provides gentle foot care that keep wait times at a minimum. John M. McHugh D.P.M Darren A. Winkler D.P.M David S. Mullen D.P.M Ezra J. Dottino D.P.M Visit one of our close to home offices! WATERTOWN- 51 Depot St., Suite 202 Ph(860) 274-1773 Fax(860) 945-6820 WOLCOTT- 464 Wolcott Rd Ph(203) 879-3646 Fax(203) 879-7191 TORRINGTON- 333 Kennedy Dr. Suite L103 Ph(860) 489-1900 Fax(860) 482-5804 Podiatrists, Dr. McHugh and Associates, P.C. Page 2 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Local News ...continued from page 1 firm conducting the forensic investigation, so that we can rule out any other transactions that may be related. Working through all of our accounts to reconcile and balance them is a daunting task. The accounting practices that have been used for the past seven years have been poor, at best. In terms of time, I believe that it will be another couple of months before we have everything where it belongs. The third portion of the problem on which we are working includes all of the things that should have been completed during the past seven years and hadn’t been done. It seems as if I hear of a new issue almost every day. Some of them may involve money that we have due us. This portion of what we are doing is equally as large as the other two. The questions that are always asked are, “How did this happen?” and “What will prevent it from happening again?” The accounting problems stemmed from several things. First, we have a very small office with an equally small staff. The biggest problem with a small office is not having duel control, but allowing one person to have control over everything. Over the past few years, too much control was assumed by the comptroller’s office, allowing decisions to be made there instead of going through the proper protocols. We also have software that allowed things to be done that should not have been done. The present software is old and needs to be updated. We will do that, but we can’t do that until we can get all of our numbers where they belong. Changing software is a huge undertaking, requiring months of running two systems before we can let one go. When we are able, we will make the change. Throughout this fiscal crisis, we must be mindful of the fact that second guessing what happened or pointing fingers does no good at all and accomplishes nothing. We can’t change what has happened; we can only repair it, make sure protocols are in place to prevent this from happening again, and move forward. I am looking at October 31, 2014, as being “ground zero” for the town and me as far as this matter goes. Everything that transpired prior to that date is history, and there is nothing that we can do to change it. We can only start from that date and introduce new and effective measures so that we can move on. As we move forward, we have already begun the process of implementing changes. The budget process on which we are working is new. I felt it better not to use any of the old methods or spreadsheets from the past. We have already begun the process of working with duel controls and duel signatures for transactions. Solid accounting practices and protocols are coming together, and I am very confident that soon we will be where we should be. What I really want to do is to look forward to spring, initiate new projects, and move forward again. Hopefully by next month, I can start talking to you about those projects. For some of those projects, we will be reimbursed; some may not be reimbursed. The bottom line is we will need to borrow money to complete them. However, be assured that I will only bring the projects to you when I feel comfortable that we have everything else under control. This newsletter serves as a brief overview of what we are dealing with every day. I can promise you that we have an excellent team in place, and we are working hard every day. Each and every day we make more progress. We will resolve the numerous issues, and we will move forward again. I will talk with you next month! Stay Warm. Mayor Dave Merchant Terryville Stylist Winners of the Lions Moves After 11+ Years Holiday Lighting Jamie Nadeau, formerly of Hair Central, located on Contest South Main Street in Terryville, will now be at The Biz salon located at 940 Terryville Avenue in Bristol, in the corner of the plaza at the intersection of Route 6 and Clark Avenue. Jamie would like to thank all of her clients for 11 great years at Hair Central, and hopes to see them all in this new chapter of her profession. For appointments she can be reached at 860-212-7112, working Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Thursdays only by appointment with a 24 hour notice. White Lights: 1st Doreen Feltt, 376 Preston Rd. 2ndMark Lyons, 39 Old Wtby. Rd. 3rd Kyra Pham, 366 Preston Rd. Colored Lights: 1st Bert Kavanaugh, 106 Fall Mtn. Lake Rd. (new participant) 2ndGary Violette, 37 High St. 3rdShanna Renkavinsky, 27 Club La. (new participant) from Hair Central is now at 940 Terryville Ave. Bristol Themed: 1st Kevin Rescildo, 101 Allen St. 2nd Jared Fortin, 5 Cedar St. Congratulations and thank you to all who entered! Beautification Committee Vacancies The Plymouth Beautification Committee has several vacancies. The Committee’s many projects have included new benches and landscaping at the Veteran’s Monuments at Baldwin Park, planters along Main St., the annual Pumpkinfest, the Tree Lighting and Carol Sing, and new landscaping at Gosinski Park, among others. For this year, we are planning more planters, new landscaping at Town Hall, and maybe even murals to brighten up Main Street (calling all artists, hint, hint.). The Committee meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm at the Town Hall. Contact Committee Chair Cheryl Russell at 860-283-0131. Lincoln Day Dinner The Plymouth Republican Town Committee presents their Lincoln Day Dinner on February 7th, 2015, at the Pequabuck Golf Club, School Street, Pequabuck. Cocktail hour begins at 6:00pm (cash bar), dinner at 7:00pm. Join us for dinner with a speaker Peter Lumaj, Republican candidate for Connecticut Secretary of State in the 2014 elections. Please RSVP Immediately. Price is $35 per person, $65 per couple. Call Mary Wollenberg (860-583-9377) with questions or to purchase tickets. All are welcome. Back-to-Basics Helping you live the simple life 31 Main Street Terryville 06786 phone 860-589-8858 fax 860-589-7968 Mon.-Fri. 9-6 Saturday 9-5 Sunday 9-3 Maple Syrup Supplies Sunday, February 1st at 9 am Black Oil Sunflower Seeds Rabbit Food 10 $ 99 25lb. Bag 50lb. Bag Suet Cakes Deer Corn w/Molasses • Orange Treat • Berry Treat • Nutty Treat • Seed Treat Sleds 24 $ 22 2 for $ 1Each $ While Supplies Last 40lb. Bag, Must Buy 2. Ice Melt, Rock Salt, Calcium & Pet-Safe Products In Stock! Snow Shovels The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 3 Local News PRIDE AND PROGRESS FOR PLYMOUTH STATEMENT SIGNATURES GATHERED SINCE JANUARY PUBLICATION DEADLINE OF 12/27/2014: Amy Radke Regina Murawski Wayne Radke Fran Girouard Dawn Belonick Kim Wasko John Belonick Wayne A. Titus, Sr. Janice L. Belonick Elaine Titus Melissa Belonick Ann Bednaz Alexandria Belonick Todd Bednaz Chris Belonick Helen Makara Matt Belonick Norma Tanguay Gregory Shell Arlene Schissler Dorine Tennant Hanna C. Tucker George Withers, Pres., F.M.L.P.O.A. James O’Donnell Dianna Tennant Nancy O’Donnell George Castle, Capital Improvements / Larry LaFreniere Planning & Zoning Comms. Sylvia LaFreniere Robert E. Leroux Mark Gagnon, Sr., Owner, Gagnon’s Carpets Bill Hamzy Beth Gagnon Dennis Kendall Heidi Caron, Chair, Human Services Commission Margaret Kendall Kathleen Mackiewicz Peter Cook Helena Schwalm, President, Plymouth Seniors Joe Longo Jason Dorso Keith G. Golnik, Fire Commission Eric Pelz Christine A. Ciarmella Mike Drozdick, Board of Finance Ann Petrin Maria Drozdick Elizabeth Theriault George Tishon Lucien Theriault Linda Konopaske Helen Mackiewicz Joann Basile Ann Mackiewicz Daniel Slevinsky, retired, Lt. Plymouth Police Gene Pyrzenski Linda Slevinsky Growing up Straight (the hows, whats and whys of growing things) Let me introduce myself. My name is Susan Huff. I have been a practicing gardener for over 20 years. When I was in my twenties I lived in an apartment and discovered I enjoyed growing house plants. I tried everything from spider plants to rooting avocado pits (which by the way did well). Once people witnessed my talent I started to inherit plants from people who no longer wanted them, including a Bird of Paradise, which is now about 24 years old, and yes it has bloomed for me. In 1992 my dad passed away and I moved into the family homestead in Terryville to take care of my mom. After my mom passed, the home and about three quarters of an acre, became mine. I knew absolutely nothing about yard work when I started. After a few years of floundering I attended the University of Connecticut and received my Master Gardener Certificate in 1998. Shortly after, I worked at a local nursery, and in the last 12 years have worked part-time for Twin Gardens in Collinsville, CT. All the while practicing in my own gardens and yard. So that brings me to present day. I asked Lisa if she would mind if I wrote a gardening column for the local newspaper. She agreed. So here I am. Hopefully each month I can give you some helpful hints and answer any questions you may have. If I don’t know the answer right away, I have many resources to turn to. Perennials, shrubs, trees and houseplants are my pleasure. I only dabble in vegetables. Lawns? Well, in the last five years I have pretty much given up chemicals in my yard. My lawn is green and looks nice when it’s mowed but it’s no golf course. I prefer it that way. I will start in February with my dreams for the spring time. If you have any questions you would like answered, please e-mail Lisa at the Plymouth Connection: plymouthconnection@comcast.net and she will pass it on. Thanks, Susan “Thank You” In June I lost my Dad, Rupert F Bain. Many people reached out with acts and notes of kindness. Well, in January another thoughtful gift came to my home. A lovely book of prayer and spiritual thoughts. I would like to personally thank the local businesses and The Heritage Company of North Carolina that made that possible. The local people are: Lee Hardware, Chutes Gate Steakhouse, Michael Mazzone Insurance Agency, Chamberlin Granite Company, Plymouth Auto, and Scott Funeral Home. Thank-You for honoring Dad. Sally Bain-Picard Assistant Police Chief, Robert Wright, is Plymouth’s 1st to Graduate the FBI National Academy Program On December 19, 2014, 215 law enforcement officers graduated from the FBI National Academy Program in Quantico, Virginia. The 258th Session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 49 states and from law enforcement agencies from the District of Columbia, 26 international countries, 3 military organizations, and 4 federal civilian organizations. Assistant Chief Robert Wright of the Plymouth Police Department was one of those 215 officers who graduated in this class. He is a 20 year veteran of the police department and was the first officer in the history of the Plymouth Police Department to be selected to attend the National Academy Program since its inception in 1935. He graduated with honors making this a very proud and historic achievement for the Plymouth Police Department and for the Town of Plymouth. Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy Program held at the FBI Academy, offers 11 weeks of advanced investigative, management, and fitness training for selected officers having proven records as professionals within their agencies. On average, these officers have 19 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive level positions. Training for the program is provided by the FBI Academy Instructional Staff, Special Agents, and other staff members holding advanced degrees, many of whom are recognized internationally in their fields of expertise. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia due to the accreditation by the university of the many courses offered. FBI Director James Corney was the principal speaker at the ceremony. The graduating officers were represented by the class spokesperson, Michael Dahl, Captain, with the Washington State Patrol in Olympia, Washington. A total of 47,898 graduates now represent the FBI National Academy since it began in July 1935. Of this number, 16,233 are still active in law enforcement work. Save Money This Tax Season Want to know how you can get your taxes done for free… with no hidden fees or strings attached? United Way of West Central Connecticut will again be hosting a free tax preparation site for individuals residing in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth and Terryville throughout the tax season. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program provides low-income workers and families with free tax preparation and filing. The goal is to bring unclaimed tax credits to these individuals, and thus to the community! All volunteers at this VITA site are IRS-certified and ready to help you prepare your tax return and get you all the money due to you! If your household income is less than $53,000 then you are eligible to have your taxes done at this local VITA site for free. Appointments are required, so call (860) 540-4767 today and make sure to request to come to the Bristol site! Over the course of the last five tax seasons, United Way has been able to bring over $1,485,806 in state and federal refunds back to individuals in our community through this program! It has also saved clients over $200,000 in tax preparation fees alone. Plus, 100% of clients at last year’s site said they were satisfied with the services they received (based on the results of an exit survey). Another goal of this program is to promote the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC is one of the largest antipoverty programs. EITC is a financial boost for working people in a recovering economy. And for the third time, there is also a State of Connecticut EITC. To qualify for the federal and state EITC, earned income and adjusted gross income must be less than: - $46,997 ($52,427 married filing jointly) with three or more qualifying children; - $43,756 ($49,186 married filing jointly) with two or more qualifying children; - $38,511 ($43,941 married filing jointly) with one qualifying child; - $14,590 ($20,020 married filing jointly) with no qualifying children The United Way of West Central Connecticut, serving the communities of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville and Plymouth, is working to create opportunities for a better life for all by focusing on education, income and health. Under the building block of Income, this initiative strives to help families become financially stable and independent. Again, appointments are required for this site, so please call (860) 540-4767 as soon as you receive all of your tax forms for 2014. LEO Support A Soldier-Month of February 2015 Help us support our troops serving overseas! Two soldiers from our community (and their Units) will be getting these supplies. Food Items: Nuts, trail mix – small packages are great to tuck into their pockets, Austin crackers with peanut butter or cheese, cereal – they eat it by the handful, hard candy, soups in flip top containers or individual bowls, beef jerky, beef bites, individual packets of drink mixes to add to water, coffee, Swiss Miss, Chef Boyardee with pop tops, Betty Crocker bowl appetite, Hormel Completes, mac & cheese in individual bowls, tuna pouches, cookies, Ramen Noodles, gum Misc: Eye drops, Q-tips, air fresheners, playing cards, wordbooks, word puzzles, socks – this is BIG – especially when not on a base with washing machines, toothpaste, duct tape – they repair everything with this, nail clippers, shavers (razors, deodorant, Donations accepted at all schools in town!!! Call 860 314-2777 ext. 5412/5413 Page 4 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Head Start Applications Local News Preschool Resource Fair - February 11 If We Can’t Find You, We Can’t Help You! In this hi-tech, Wi-Fi, GPS world it is still good ole fashion identification and labeling that helps get the job done. What am I talking about ……? Well, let me first share the scenario and give you an accurate understanding of the gravity of my message as well. Imagine it is a moonless night, lightly misting and the windshield wipers should have been changed at least three storms ago. The windy road you are driving down seems like it is something from a Steven King movie. Now put yourself behind the wheel of an ambulance or a fire truck and the dispatcher is asking you to “step it up” because the 911 caller is becoming panicked. The emergency service vehicle has found your road but the driver cannot find your house in the sparsely populated road. This is further complicated because your mailbox does not have a number on it and your house light is off. So, while a GPS will get the emergency responders close to the destination, it still takes house numbers or other permanent building markings to give it positive identification. Along with having a number on your mailbox, it is best practice to also identify your house or the building you live in. The structure should have legible address numbers placed in a position to be plainly identified and visible from the street or road fronting your property. These numbers should contrast from their background. Brass and Bronze seem classy, but this type of material is difficult to see and read. Address numbers should be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. Numbers should be a minimum of 4 inches high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch. When the building is set back farther than 50 feet from the streets the letter sizes should be scaled up. Be sure to check the front of your home to make sure your number is clearly visible and legible from the street. If it is not, please make corrections. Consider placing it on your fence, gate or light post. You are placing your loved ones at risk when minutes matter because you called us. After all, you called 911 for help, so let us find you. SAMPLES OF GOOD MARKINGS SAMPLES OF HIDDEN & POOR MARKINGS Plymouth Head Start, located at Harry S Fisher School, is accepting pre-applications for the 2015-2016 school year. This early childhood program is committed to providing comprehensive, quality services to children ages 3-5, and their families. The program staff works in partnership with families to enhance children’s social competence, to provide families with opportunities to grow and develop, and to prepare children to enter kindergarten with the skills and knowledge necessary for success. Head Start is a free program. Eligibility is determined based on a family’s income. Homeless families, families receiving Social Security Income, as well as foster children are automatically eligible. Head Start offers nutritious breakfasts and lunches. This program currently runs Monday through Thursday from 8:15 until 12:30. Come and visit us at the Preschool Resource Fair on February 11, 2015 at Plymouth Center School from 6:00-7:30 p.m. For further information please contact us at vellucci@ educationconnection.org or call 860-689-6832. Legislators to Host Feb. 6th Coffee Hour at Rodd’s Restaurant The public is invited to a Coffee Hour with Bristol legislators on Friday, February 6th at Rodd’s Restaurant (854 Farmington Ave., Bristol). The “Coffee With Your Legislators” event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. It will be hosted by Sen. Henri Martin, Rep. Whit Betts, and Rep. Cara Pavalock. Plymouth Volunteer Ambulance Explorer Post 111 Submitted by Connie Kapralos and Scott Amendola Residents will have the opportunity to meet their legislators in a relaxed setting and may discuss any issues they wish to talk about. Coffee will be provided. The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 5 Of Hats and Hearts By Lisa K. Watson-Barcia Pastor, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Terryville February for many is a really tough month. Even though it has Valentine’s Day at its center, it can feel dark and depressing. The holidays have ended, the enthusiasm of a bright and new shiny year has begun to wear thin and often the weather is just awful. My mother, who suffers from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) often tells me the best thing about February is that it is the shortest month. Four weeks is just about all she can handle. So for many, poor old February is a month to be hurried through and survived. I, who am not bothered by the lack of sunshine, have a confession to make, to her and to you: while I do not want to sound unsympathetic (she is my mother after all!), I genuinally like February! For me, this little month is a celebration. I am old enough to remember when February used have Lincoln’s birthday celebration before he and old George got squished together into President’s Day. I remember the joy of making black construction paper tstove pipe hats and learning about this great man who guided us through the Civil War and freed the slaves. The literally tall tales of Lincoln for me always merged with my 6’4” dad and so, Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Kuehn were these benign giants in my childhood who somehow made the world a better, safer place. And then we had Valentine’s Day when I got to play with RED construction paper, white doilies and glitter. I would make elaborate designs for my mom - thinking the more glue and sparkle I added would lift her up from sorrow and show her how much I loved her. I never actually articulated this though - and much to her credit, I don’t think she ever questioned my glue sodden, glitter dripping gifts, although she must have wondered about my artistic vision! As we have come to the present, February too is commemorated as Black History Month, a time to be reminded that in a land of immigrants, there were many who came to these shores not by choice, but by enslavement. Perhaps because of my lingering images of that stove pipe hat, the idea of remembering, commemorating and celebrating a unique American story is a natural one for me. In this dark month, punctuated with a festival of love, we recall that yes, the wind is sharp and the sky grey. We recall the lash and the auctionblock, but we also recall that darkness does NOT have the final word. That there are giants who work to make the world a better and safer place, and that we can offer love to each other even if its expression is sloppy and awkwardly done. Take the time this month to learn the stories of those enslaved who broke free, and whom, despite all the odds, have made this country great. If you are not a person of colour, this will feel awkward and challenging. But non-African heritaged folks have a great gift this month - we have the excuse to learn - the librares will have books displayed, the TV and radio will have speciasls on.Mother Nature has provided us with the perfect setting to stay indoors and read and listen and learn.Bring your crooked stove pipe hats and your glitter soaked hearts take the time to discover and encounter history that may be new to you. In the dark of the winter, in the coziness of the fire - open your hearts to each other. If you are a person of Christian faith, I would suggest that you make this Lenten season a time to expand the circle in your life and welcome all the sisters and brothers of God’s kingdom in. Won’t that ransom February and bring it into the light? Local News Main Street Community Foundation Promotes Betts to Vice President Jarre B. Betts was recently promoted to Vice President of Programs at Main Street Community Foundation. Jarre joined the Foundation in 2000 and most recently served as the Director of Programs & Community Relations. In her new role, she will direct program activities, including grantmaking, special projects and community leadership initiatives identified by the Foundation. The promotion took effect January 1, 2015. “Jarre’s contributions to the Foundation over the last 15 years is immeasurable,” stated Susan D. Sadecki, President & CEO. “The goal of the Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for both present and future generations in the communities we serve. Jarre firmly believes in this mission. She is the driving force behind the responsible grantmaking of the Foundation’s nearly 200 funds established by local individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits. She strives (860) 583-2555 124 Main Street Terryville, CT 06787 Verdi Rizvani, Owner $2.00 OFF Any Large or Extra Large Pizza TERRYVILLE STORE ONLY $2.00 OFF Any Large or Extra Large Pizza TERRYVILLE STORE ONLY Not combined with any other coupon. Limit 1 per person per day. Valid 2/1/15 - 3/31/15. Not combined with any other coupon. Limit 1 per person per day. Valid 2/1/15 - 3/31/15. $1.00 OFF 10% OFF Any Dinner TERRYVILLE STORE ONLY Not combined with any other coupon. Valid 2/1/15 - 3/31/15 Terryville High School PTSA After-Grad The Terryville High School, PTSA After-Grad Committe has been hard at work raising money to help pay for their drug and alcohol free party for our graduating seniors, at the Shelton Sports Center of CT. I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone that has come out to support the many events we have had, such as: Moe’s Fundraising Nights, Jake’s Wayback Burger Fundraising Night, our trip to NYC, Bake Sale, Scrip Pro gift card purchase, and our Can and Bottle Drive. There are many things that we continue to do and continue to need support from the community and the parents of our seniors. Movie Night: on February 6th, at 7:00, the Class of 2015 and the After-Grad Committee is showing “Divergent” at Terryville High School, for just $5.00, bring your family and friends. Some ongoing fundraisers are Car Magnets that show your school spirit for Terryville High Hometown Pizza Catering Valid 2/1/15 - 3/31/15 Catering For Any Occasion www.hometownpizzaofct.com Page 6 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 to maximize the available grant dollars from each fund while ensuring that community needs are being met.” Jarre works closely with the Distribution and Scholarship Committees as well as donors to ensure their charitable giving goals are met and exceeded. She also serves as a resource for local nonprofit organizations by assisting them with grant applications, helping them identify other sources of funding and implementing programs that strengthen their organizational capacity. The Main Street Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for both present and future generations in the communities served by encouraging and promoting gift planning, prudent stewardship of assets, effective grantmaking and community leadership. A nonprofit public charity, created by private citizens, the foundation works with donors in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott who wish to build permanent charitable endowments to support their communities. Since its founding in 1995, the foundation has provided over $10.6 million in grants and scholarships. School. If you are interested in purchasing one please contact Carol Andrews, contact information is listed below. February 24th, we will be having a fundraiser at our local McDonald’s, please stop in and see our very own Terryville High School staff preparing your food and taking your order. At this event we will be having gift baskets that you will have the chance to win with a donation. If you would like to donate a gift card or gift basket please contact Carol Andrews. Parents of Seniors at Terryville High School: We need your help for many upcoming events, they are as listed: Pasta Dinner: donating or getting donations for supplies and assisting at event, Car Show, Plant Sale, and getting food donations from local businesses. If you can help with any of these events please contact Carol Andrews at andrewsc@plymouth.k12.ct.us. Evening Hours Have Changed: The Food Pantrywill now be opened on the FIRST TUESDAY of each month from 5-7 pm instead of the second Tuesday. Needs List • Cereal • Jelly • Spagetti Sauce • Macaroni and Cheese • Personal Care items (especially for cold and flu-’tis the season) Statistics for the month of December: • Total # of Individuals served 384 • Total # of Adults 18-59 served 221 • Total # of Children under 18 served 113 • Total # of Senior over 60 served 50 • Total # of New Families 6 • As of December 31st, 537 people, representing 246 families, are registered to use the pantry. Of those registered, 166 are children and 71 are senior citizens. • 14,455 pounds of food were given away by the pantry in December. • 313 families visited, receiving approx. 50 pounds per family per visit. Since January, 2014 we have distributed 133,302 pounds of food; up 15,411 from 2013. Donate on-line via our website: plymouthfoodpantry.org To learn how to donate or volunteer call (860) 584-1750. Erin Kennedy, Director; 20 Dewey Ave., Terryville THE LYCEUM in Terryville Space Available for Large or Small Events BUSINESS MEETINGS or CONFERENCES Seating for 25 in each of 4 meeting rooms WEDDING RECEPTIONS or BANQUETS Seating for 250 at tables in our main hall • • • • • • Let our event manager help you plan Full kitchen facilities if desired Bandstand and sound system available Air conditioned comfort Internet, laptop/projector available Off street parking in our full size lot Call Toll Free: 1 855 T LYCEUM (1 855 859 2386) www.lyceumterryville.com Local News CT Fire Prevention Poster Contest Presents Winners PEP, Plymouth Early Childhood Council and Family Resource Center “Fire Prevention–Everyone/Everyday” On January 8, the Poster Contest Awards Ceremony took place at the Plymouth Town Hall. The Ceremony was led by Charles Doback, Plymouth Fire Marshal, and included Honored Guests Mayor David V. Merchant; Mark L. Winzler, Interim Superintendent of Schools; Mrs. Shari Kohl, Art Teacher at Fisher Elementary School; Mrs. Phyllis Worhunsky, Principal at Fisher Elementary School; Mrs. Diane Boylan, Art Teacher at Plymouth Center School; Mrs. Crystal Collins, Principal at Plymouth Center School; Plymouth Board of Fire Commissioners and Plymouth Board of Education. 2015 PEP Class Graduation The Plymouth FRC is proud to announce this year’s PEP (people empowering people) graduating class of 2015: Donna Koser, Heather MacAulay, Jennifer Yezierski, Tanya Long, and Jennifer DeForest, not pictured, Vianna Hartley. Congratulations ladies; look for their exciting community project coming soon. Key Collection in Plymouth!. The People Empowering People (PEP) Class of 2015 is collecting used keys. Please look for collection cans in the Plymouth community. Stay tuned! More details can be expected in the spring! PEP is a free 10 week program with a strong community focus encouraging growth in communication and problem solving skills, parent/family relationships and community involvement. The PEP program is offered in partnership with the Plymouth Family Resource Center, the United Way of West Central CT and the University of CT. Local Poster Contest Winners Fisher Elementary School – 4th Grade 1st Place – Noah Fernet, 2nd Place – Cady Brumaghim, 3rd Place – Cheyanne Kovaleski Fisher Elementary School – 5th Grade 1st Place – Emma Pelosi, 2nd Place – Lucy Bird, 3rd Place – Riley Liistro Plymouth’s Appetite For Reading Has a New Bookshelf. Plymouth Center School – 4th Grade 1st Place – Alice Benson, 2nd Place – Julia Freimuth, 3rd Place – Emily Ieronimo The Plymouth Early Childhood Council is thankful for Mr. McDermott from Eli Terry Jr. Middle School and his students for building the shelf, Mrs. Diane Boylan (featured in photo) for painting the shelf and Pat Borda, KIM Coordinator and KIM students for preparing the books for distribution. Look for Plymouth’s Appetite for Reading bookshelves around Plymouth. The bookshelf featered in this article can be found at the Lucky Cup. Plymouth’s Plymouth Center School – 5th Grade 1st Place – Arista Penette, 2nd Place – Devin Meurer, 3rd Place – Madison Ouellet Special thanks go out to Adams IGA in Terryville, Lake Compounce, Terryville McDonalds/Trefz Corporation, Walmart Foundation, and to the Judges: Mayor David V. Merchant, Mr. Anthony Orsini and Ms. Barbara Rockwell; along with Charles Doback, Fire Marshal; Art Teachers Mrs. Diane Boylan and Mrs. Shari Kohl; and Mr. David Bertnagel, Plymouth Director of Finance Appetite For Reading is an initiative of the Plymouth Early Childhood Council (PECC) to encourage Plymouth children and families to read. Free books are offered throughout the Plymouth community. To donate gently used books, please contact us at plymouthearlychildhoodcouncil@plymouthct.us or via phone at (860) 314-2763. To learn more about the PECC, please like us on Facebook or visit our website at http://plymouth.k12.ct.us/PECC. Preschool Resource and Literacy Fair The preschool grade level team will be hosting their annual fair this year at Plymouth Center School. It will be held in the gym on February 11, 2015, 6:00-7:30. Families are encouraged to attend and learn about the preschool opportunities in the community, health resources, community resources, discuss kindergarten readiness with teachers and participate in fun literacy activities with their children. Each child who attends will receive a free skills bag. FRC Happenings Visit our new website @ www.plymouth.k12.ct.us/frc Play groups at Plymouth Center School, 107 North St. Plymouth CT • Home childcare providers: Monday 9:30-10:45 • Families Tuesday - Friday 9:30-10:45 Preschool This NAEYC accredited program has opening in the am at Plymouth Center. 2015/2016 registration will open • Current students and alumni on February 9th • Open to the public on February 16th There are limited opportunities for financial aid, please call the FRC office for more details: 860-283-6167 or email @ plymouthfrc@educationconnection.org Conscious Discipline The FRC will be hosting another free series of Conscious Discipline from renowned educator Becky Bailey (visit their website, consciousdiscipline.com) • Tuesday February 24th 12:30-2:30, Plymouth Center School, 107 North Street, Plymouth CT. Childcare and refreshments will be provided. Call to reserve your space. 4th Annual St. Patrick’s Mohegan TASTE OF BRISTOL 2013 TASTE OF BRISTOL 2013 Sun Bus Trip ts Are eTASTE % OF BRISTOL 201 TtsicAkre Ticke % OFF 20 20 20 OFF % OFF Only 5 Per Ticket Only 5 Per Ticket 5 ! ail! able Climb Aboard and try your luck at our 4th Annual St. Abvle w o N a il a v A Now Patrick’s Mohegan Sun Bus Trip, on Saturday, March 21st, Tickets Are at Overva30 Restaurants During Of March 2013 2015. The cost is $30.00 per person, which gets a $15 ! leRestaurants ilabLocal at Over 30 Local During During Of March Now 5 atAOver 30 Local Restaurants Of2013 March 2015 food coupon, plus a $15 game voucher. The bus leaves Town Hall parking lot at 3p.m. and will return for 1 a.m. at Over 30TICKETS Local Restaurants During ARE ONLY $5 EACH Of March 2013 Reservations are first come first served basis and payPresented by Presented by ment is required in full. Deadline is March 13th. Tickets may be used one-time at EACH participating restaurant. Tickets may be used one-time at EACH participating restaurant. For additional info or to make a reservation call Tony PLUS…EACH TICKET INCLUDES AN ENTRY IN OUR DRAWING FOR OV PresentedPLUS…E by PLUS… Orsini: (860) 589-6684, or Paul Gianesini: (860)582-6988, ACH TICKET INCLU DES AN ENTRY OUR DR AWING FOR OVER $500 EACHRANT TICKET INCLUDES ANIN ENTRY IN OUR IN RESTAU GIFT CE RTIFICATES (prizes range from DRAWING $10 to $50 per winner) Tickets may be (prizes used one-time at$10 EACH participating restau or visit www.plymouthdemocrats.com. IN RESTAU RANT GIFT CE RTIFICATES range from to $50 per FOR OVER $500 IN RESTAURANT GIFT CERTIFICATES winner) $ ALL ALL ALL ALL $ $ Only 5 Per Ticket TASTE OF BRISTOL 20 OFF % 201 to be held 2/27/13, will be drawn from all tickets received by 2/26/13. Gift Certificates are redeemable PLUS…E ACH TICKET INCLU DES ANwinner) ENTRY IN OUR DRAWING Tickets Are Drawing, toDrawing, be heldfor2/27/13, will drawn from all tickets received byper 2/26/13. GiftbeCertificates arewill redeemable (prizes range $10 to Winners $50 in dine-in orbe take-out only.from No Cash Value. need not present and be notified. ! IN RESTAU RANT GIFT CE RTIFICATES (prizes range from $10 to $50 per for in dine-in or take-out only. No Cash Value. Winners need not be present and will be notified. le b a il a v A ow N Please see www.westendbristol.org for participating restaurants, disclaimer details andbyticket selling locations. Drawing, to be held 2/26/15, will be drawn all will tickets received by 2/25/15. Drawing, to be heldfrom 2/27/13, be drawn from all tickets received 2/26/13. Gift Certificates are re Your Friend, Your Neighbor, Your REALTOR®! Devlin G. Toth Please see www.westendbristol.org for participating restaurants, disclaimer details and ticket selling locations. for in dine-in or take-out take-out only.office No Cash Value. Winners need not be present and will be notifie Tickets 30 are available at the Chamber ofor Commerce and several other locations Gift are redeemable for dine-in only. No Cash Value. atCertificates Over Restaurants Of March 2013 Tickets are availableLocal at the Chamber of CommerceDuring office and several other locations And will be available at the Bristol Home Business Expo at Bristol Eastern High School FEB 23 & 24 Winners need not be &present and will held be notified. Please at seethe www.westendbristol.org for Expo participating restaurants, disclaimer details and And will be available Bristol Home & Business held at Bristol Eastern High School FEB 23 ticket & 24 selling lo Proceeds from this promotion will be used to further theavailable mission of the WestChamber End Association. Please contactoffice JESSE JABLON AT 860-620-2771 for more info. Tickets are at the of Commerce and several other locations promotion will be used to further the mission of the Westfor End Association. Please contact JESSE JABLON ATdisclaimer 860-620-2771 for details more info. Please see www.westendbristol.org participating restaurants, 740-361-1924 Proceeds from this Many More Coupons and Specials Available at www.bargainbook.biz And will bebyavailable at the Bristol Home & Businessat Expo held at Bristol Eastern High School FEB Presented Many More Coupons and Tickets Specials www.bargainbook.biz and ticket selling locations. areAvailable available the Chamber Commerce DevlinToth@bhhsNE.com Tickets may beat used one-time at of EACH participating restau ALL Only $5 Per Ticket BARGAIN BOOK PROOF BARGAIN BOOK PROOF THIS IS YOU R PROOF!...PL EASE READ AD COPY C ARE FULL THIS IS YOU R PROOF!...PL EASE READ ALLALL AD PROOF COPY C ARE FULLY! BARGAIN BOOK Proceeds from this promotion will be used to further the mission of the West End Association. Please contact JESSE JABLON AT 860-620-2771 for mo office and several other locations and will be available at the Bristol Home & PLUS…E ACH Specials TICKET INCLU DES AN ENTRY IN OUR DRAWING Many More Coupons and Available at www.bargainbook Business Expo held at Bristol Eastern HighCE School FEB(prizes 21 &range 22 from $10 to $50 per IN RESTAU RANT GIFT RTIFICATES Call your local Terryville agent. Like on Facebook! ©2014 An independently operated Facebook.com/DevlinTothRealtor member of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Drawing, be held 2/27/13, will be drawn from all tickets by 2/26/13. Gift Certificates are re Proceeds from this promotion will be used totofurther the mission of the West Endreceived Association. for in dine-in or take-out only. No Cash Value. Winners need not be present and will be notifie Please contactAddress JESSE JABLON 860-620-2771 for more info. Check Offer Check Name, & AT Phone Check Disclaimers Check Expirat ffer Check Name, Address & Phone CheckConnection Disclaimers Check The Plymouth • February, 2015 •Expiration Page 7 Create your own personal pension? Not as crazy as it sounds As defined benefit pensions disappear, it may be up to you to create a guaranteed income stream By Julia Weston Thrivent Financial First came pensions, or defined benefit plans, with their guaranteed income for life; then came 401(k)s with their focus on growth from the stock and bond markets. The two were meant to work together but with defined benefit pensions quickly becoming a thing of the past, many people are left with only a 401(k) plan. While 401(k)s are an important piece of retirement savings, they were never intended to be a standalone retirement solution. The 401(k) was meant to provide supplemental retirement savings in conjunction with pensions, savings, and other income vehicles to paint a fuller retirement picture. Additional resources can be used to buttress your 401(k) and pension payments in order to build out a full retirement strategy. What could a soon- to-be retiree do about replacing that old defined benefit plan that offered guaranteed income? What if you’re one of the many people who are receiving a lump-sum from a retirement plan or have a windfall event where you receiving a sum of money? One option could be a deferred income annuity. A deferred income annuity (DIA) allows you to set up a guaranteed income stream beginning later in life. Remember that the guaranteed income is based on the strength and claims paying ability of your financial institution. DIA’s are traditionally funded with a lump sum payment and the contract promises to pay you a lifetime income stream starting with a date of your choice. For example, let’s say a DIA is purchased with a $50,000 lump sum. That money will then be held by your financial institution for a defined period where it will grow with interest. After a specified amount of time has passed, you can start receiving payments. This guaranteed stream of income can be used to supplement additional retirement savings. Many options are available when it comes to retirement strategies. With traditional pensions disappearing from the landscape, plenty of options let you design personal solutions for your own retirement. The key is knowing your options and working with a financial professional who can help guide you toward a stable retirement. This article was prepared by Thrivent Financial for use by Julia Weston. She has an office at 934 Terryville Ave. in Bristol and can also be reached at 860-261-7562.1084910-010615 Local News Hometown Heritage By Jerry Milne Welcome to the Historical Society’s new column called “Hometown Heritage”. Each month we will feature an old photograph or postcard of Plymouth with a description of its role in Plymouth’s history. This year’s pictures will have a Civil War theme because 2015 marks the 150th anniversary of the return of Plymouth’s Civil War hero, Dorence Atwater, to his hometown. After being held captive at the Confederate prisoner of war camp in Andersonville,GA, Atwater smuggled out his secret list of the 13,000 Union soldiers who died there. The prison is a National Historic Site managed by the National Park Service. The Park Service describes Atwater as “one of the most important enlisted soldiers of the Civil War”. This month’s postcard features the Atwater monument in Baldwin Park, taken in 1941. Baldwin Park was created in 1892 by Richard Baldwin and Susan Baldwin Swett, in honor of their father N.Taylor Baldwin. We should all be grateful for their generosity. The cannon was installed in 1907. The Historical Society is seeking donations to refurbish the cannon and install interpretive signs to celebrate “Dorence Atwater Day” on May 30. There will be Civil War reenactors, living history demonstrations, and period music. The Society is also looking for residents who’d be willing to show their family’s Civil War heirlooms that day. The Society meets on the last Saturday of each month at 1pm at the Museum at 572 Main St. All are welcome. The postcard is courtesy of Fran Block. To learn more, go to www.plymouthhistoricalsociety.org. First Annual ‘Gathering of the Paws’ Event Musical Event to Raise Awareness and Funds for Meriden Humane Society On Saturday, February 21st, over 20 musicians and artists will come together to raise funds and awareness for the Meriden Humane Society. The first annual ‘Gathering for the Paws” uses a musically-inspired outlet to spread the word about shelter animals and the funding challenges that many of these shelters face in working to create a safe environment for animals, until they can be adopted. Gathering for the Paws is being held at the Central café in Plainville. Doors open at Noon and music and entertainment are expected to last for over ten hours. Featured bands include: Run Jenny, RGB, The Remnants, Johnny Provo, Someone You Can Xray, DJ MO Nicklz, The Brad New Kama Band and Comedian Richard Cyr. New acts are being added daily. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door, and all proceeds go to the Meriden Humane Society. In addition to the music and comedy acts, the event will feature raffles, a bake sale, and information on adopting shelter animals. The Meriden Humane Society is a non-profit, no kill animal shelter and rescue facility. Many of the animals are taken from high-risk situations, such as high-kill pounds, cruelty investiga- tions, and from private citizens who are no longer able to care for their animal. The organization is privately run and is supported by patrons and residents who graciously donate to the facility. The shelter does not receive funding from the city or Sate and is not affiliated with the Humane Society. Without the help of the citizens of Meriden and surrounding communities, the shelter would not be able to save the number of animals that they currently do. For more information on the Meriden Humane Society: http://members.petfinder.com/~CT20/Home.htm “Today’s animal shelters rely on funding from their local communities to stay in business,” commented Sarah Sullivan, event organizer. “As the number of stray and abused animals increases, shelters become more crowded and rely on your donations to ensure the proper care of these animals.” “Gathering of the Paws provides attendees with an enjoyable day of music and comedy, while shining a light on the plight of our local animal shelters and what more we can be doing to support the cause.” Please contact Sarah Sullivan for additional information or visit Faebook ‘Gathering for the Paws’ to learn more. Animal Rescue Foundation Adoption BELLA. Bella is a cute little 1-year old, who is not entirely sure, if she should trust humans. But she is making daily strides in the purring and smooching department. She might not be ideal with small children; but would definitely fit in with pre-teens and teens. Time spent with her brings great rewards COUNTRY MANOR REALTY The Best At What We Do! Res. (860) 283-8938 Cell (860) 689-2611 508 Farmington Avenue • Bristol, CT 06010 Office (860) 589-2104 x131 • Fax (860) 589-7712 Email: lynnrob@snet.net • www.CMRBristol.com Page 8 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 MOLLY. The picture does not do this little cutie justice. You know, how hard it is to photograph black cats. Her eyes are the prettiest green, large and round. You just want to cuddle her - and she would like that. She has had a terrible start to her life, but is a forgiving soul. Just a year old, she is playful, but not hyperactive. SNAGGLES. His facial markings are absolutely adorable. He is 2 yrs. old and tolerates other cats. He seems to be a fairly laid-back cat. We will update him, when we get to know him a little better. PERIWINKLE. This beautiful little silver-blue 6 mos. old was a surprise at the shelter gate. She had a note with her, saying that neighbor kids had terrorized her until she got mean. We have not noticed any mean streak in her. As a matter of fact, she is very friendly. She is a bit defensive, when she gets scared; who can blame her? She will soon learn to trust. Oh, did I mention she is gorgeous? To adopt, please visit our shelter and at 366 Main St. in Terryville, or call (860) 583-3089. Our adoption hours are Saturday and Sunday from 1pm - 4pm. • arfCT.org • facebook.com/arfct Scott Funeral Home, Inc. Established 1906 Owned and operated by the Scott Family for 109 years Jeffrey K. Scott Francis M. Scott • Irrevocable Trust for Title 19 • Burial and Cremation Services • Pre-Paid Funeral Planning 860-583-7358 169 Main Street, Terryville www.scottfuneralhomeinc.com Local News Thomaston Savings Bank Employees, Rebekah Stokes and John-David Scarritt, Have Been Named “New Leaders in Banking” for 2015 Thomaston Savings Bank proudly congratulates employees Rebekah Stokes, AVP/ Financial Analyst, and JohnDavid Scarritt, VP Commercial Lender, on being named “New Leaders in Banking” for BankWorld 2015. A Gala Awards Ceremony and dinner was held at Mohegan Sun ReRebekah Stokes (on the right) poses sort and Casino on Thursday, with Mark Blum, Senior Vice Presi- January 22, 2015 to honor the dent/Chief Financial Officer at the recipients. New Leaders in Banking awards Connecticut ceremony held at Mohegan Sun on The January 22, 2015. Bankers Association and Connecticut Banking magazine asked bankers throughout Connecticut to nominate individuals they believe were rising stars in the banking industry. Nominees needed to be working at a bank in Connecticut, be 50 years old or younger at any point in 2014, and be making a significant contribution to their institution or community. Many nominations were received, which were vetted by an independent panel of judges, none of whom are active bankers. Rebekah began her career at Thomaston Savings Bank in 2000. Along with her duties at the Bank, Rebekah is currently involved with St. Mary Magdalen School in Oakville and the Terryville Youth Soccer Club. Ms. Stokes has been an integral part of a great group of individuals working towards a common goal of making our local communities a better place to work and live. Pick Open a Thomaston Savings Bank checking account today and get a checking account that suits your lifestyle! Get the personal attention that only Thomaston Savings Bank can deliver. Visit your local branch TODAY and let us put together the right checking package for YOU! Local 860.283.1874 | Toll-Free 855.344.1874 thomastonsavingsbank.com | Page 10 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 TSB Check-UP Checking AD for the Plymouth Connection, January 2015 Size = Half-Page, 10" x 7.3"; Black & White “The community banking mission to help people achieve their financial goals and fulfill their dreams was inspiring to me in my early college years and continues to inspire me today. Working at Thomaston Savings Bank has afforded me the opportunity to put my inspiration to work,” said Rebekah John Scarritt (on the left) John-David began his ca- poses with Kim Lebron, Senior Vice reer at Thomaston Savings President/ Chief Loan Officer at the Bank in 2009. Along with his New Leaders in Banking awards ceremony held at Mohegan Sun on duties at the Bank, John-DaJanuary 22, 2015. vid is currently a Board Member of the United Way of West Central Connecticut, the Environmental Learning Centers of Connecticut, and the Young Professionals for United Way. Mr. Scarritt is also the Founding Member of the Farmington Dog Park Coalition. When asked what he considers to be his biggest success, John-David answered: “My biggest success is not defined by a singular moment but rather the multitude of relationships I have built with my customers. Assisting individuals and businesses achieve their own goals and objectives are how I measure my success as a lender.” Both John-David and Rebekah have made significant contributions within the Bank and the community and deserve this meaningful honor. ou! to Y t n a t r o p m I s What’ s Service Fee y l h t n o M No the Spot! n o d e u s s I Debit Card equirements R e c n a l a B Low s Withdrawal M T A e e No-F ces Rate Balan t s e r e t n I s Higher oney Order M d n a s k c e l Ch Free Officia h Bill Pay it w g in k n a Online B ile Deposit b o M h it w king Mobile Ban Protection t f a r d r e v O Local News How to be your child’s gaming hero! By: Stephen Duetzmann Editor, EngagedFamilyGaming Unlike my parents, I grew up with access to a computer. I’m comfortable with technology. Most parents in my generation are more than comfortable with computers, mobile devices, e-readers, smart home devices, etc. However, there is still one area in the field of technology that has many parents stumped. That area of technology is video gaming, and all the technology that surrounds it. Games are getting more complex. Gamers, in general, are starting at a younger age. And, to make matters worse, many of these young gamers have parents (or caregivers) who did not play games at all when they were younger. Talk about a perfect storm! Gaming has grown so rapidly in the last decade or so that there is a huge population of kids that just don’t have the support that they need from their parents. These parents simply lack the experience needed to be of any real help. These comments are not intended to be a condemnation of non-gamer parents. A lot of parents in my generation (including me) have been playing games for most of our lives. This gives us a strong base of experience and helps make finding solutions to some game puzzles a relatively easy task. But, my experiences are not necessarily the same as the experiences of all other parents. My wife, for example, was not a gamer as a child. She often gets stumped by the same puzzles my children get stuck on. As I tell her, all is not lost. You CAN find the help you need if your child is stuck. The internet is a vast ocean of information and the answer to virtually any question you can imagine is floating somewhere in it. You just need to know where to look. I’ve heard too many stories where kids get stuck and their parents can’t help them. As a result their game gets “bricked” (rendered completely useless- the game may as well be built into the wall for all the fun it can bring). My goal is to give parents who are not gamers a set of tools to help find the answers to their children’s questions quickly and effectively. I know that there are a lot of parents with no REAL interest in games. These parents buy games and let their kids play by themselves, without any engagement. Video games are a perfect babysitter, right? Nope. You really do have to be able to help your children while they play in order to prevent frustration from taking over and leeching any possible enjoyment and enrichment from the experience. This guide will help you ENGAGE with your child and show you several places to find the answers you will need. 1. Your Google-Fu Must be strong This sounds obvious. Google is supposed to be able to help you find anything right? Yes. But, you can’t just type whatever you want into Google and get reliable information. First, most games are broken down into levels or stages. You can often find the information you need by searching for the title of the game and the name/number of the stage you need help on. RPGs might be a bit more challeng- “Counselor’s Corner” Emergency funds? by William A. Hamzy, Esq. The Hamzy Law Firm, LLC First of all, I hope everyone who is reading this column survived our latest “Storm of the Century”. While I am happy that we didn’t get hit by this storm as hard as the meteorologists predicted, it does make me wonder why they seem to get these weather forecasts wrong more often than not. Especially with all the Super Doppler and Micro-Dopplers and all the other names they give their weather tools. Anyway, that’s not the point of this month’s article. The topic of this month’s column is to discuss emergency funds which, in a way, is related to the latest Storm of the Century. As I have discussed previously, the most important financial habit to develop is to create a budget for your household and to stick to it. However, there is no way to predict every expense that you may have through the year. Inevitably something comes up that you didn’t plan for or that you couldn’t plan for. The only thing certain with these unexpected expenses is that through the year, they will come up. The key is to plan for it in the budget which you create. When you put your budget together, you should include a line item for Emergencies. How much should you plan to spend on these emergencies? Well, the best way to estimate this expense is to go back two or three years and calculate how much you previously spent on them. Then you can use that figure as a good estimate. And just as you spend a certain amount of money on electricity or heat or car payments, you should put away the amount you estimated on emergencies. As we all know, sometimes the estimates we make are not always accurate. However, if you have written a budget and lived by it, when an emergency comes up, you’ll be in a much better position to deal with it than you would have had you not planned. If you find yourself in a position where your debts just seem to be unmanageable, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to try to help. ing, because things aren’t numbered, but each town, cave, dungeon, or boss fight will have a name associated with it. It can also help if you type the keyword “guide” or “walkthrough” into your search to help make sure you get assistance as opposed to reviews. For example, searching for “pokemon x gym leader guide” will bring up a list of websites that contain info regarding the different gym leaders and their pokemon in Pokemon X and Y. Second, check your spelling. You might not know a lot about the game your child is playing, but you need to make sure that you know the correct spelling of things in order to have any luck finding them. Google might correct some of your misspellings, but it is possible to get lost and fail to find the information that you need. Ask your kids, or look at the game yourself to find out what you need to search for. Lastly, there are a number of websites out there that are designed to lure people using information about popular video games and infect their computers with malware. When you are searching for a piece of information make sure to look at the search results and make sure you are going to a legitimate site before you click. (Pro-Tip: If the site appears dedicated to cheats and/or offers you ways to get ahead in games by downloading an unrelated program… it’s probably not legitimate. This is especially true with mobile apps.) 2. GameFaqs.com It is possible that GameFaqs is directly responsible for the longevity of my time as a gamer. Every time I recall finding myself frustrated with a puzzle or battle in a game I turned to one of the walkthroughs on the site and was able to overcome the challenge. I cannot recommend this resource enough. GameFaqs has been around forever and has several walkthroughs for just about every game you can ever imagine. Each walkthrough is written by a community of dedicated gamers and are rated by peers as they are released. The only real weakness for GameFaqswalkthroughs is that they are written in pure text format. They do not include images, videos, or sound. They are essentially step-by-step instructions that are painstakingly written out. Fortunately, these documents are searchable (just like most text on the web) by hitting Control-F on a PC and Command-F on a Mac. This will bring up a small search box in your browser. Simply type in whatever you are searching for and it will bring you right there. (Be VERY careful with your spelling here though. Google won’t be able to save you here.) 3. IGN Wikis and Walkthroughs IGN is a website that covers the video game and popular entertainment industry. They have a significant portion of their website dedicated to providing a home for user submitted walkthroughs, guides, and Wiki pages. These pages function very similarly to GameFaqs, with the exception that they will often include images and video. They even include mobile apps! Simply do a Google Search and include the game title, the word “walkthrough,” and the letters “IGN.” 4. YouTube YouTube has its share of challenges regarding content for children, but there is a massive community of gamers who post videos of the games that they play. You can find walkthroughs of virtually any game you can imagine here. This is an especially useful resource for parents who need help on action games and platforming games. (Also, some people are simply visual learners and having a video to watch will be of more use.) I hope you found these suggestions helpful! Make sure to check us out on EngagedFamilyGaming.com for more news, reviews, and advice from the experts! Do you like what you read here? You can read this article and many more by Stephen at www. engagedfamilygaming.com! You can also find his articles posted on the EFG Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/EngagedFamilyGaming)! Stephen Duetzmann is a Terryville resident, operating EngagedFamilyGaming locally. Have too many debts? Give us a call. The Hamzy Law Firm, LLC Attorneys at Law 140 Farmington Ave. (Route 6) Bristol, CT 06010 (860) 589-6525 www.HamzyLaw.com Real Estate Closings – Bankruptcy – Family Personal Injury – Estate Planning William A. Hamzy, Esq. Misty Simmons, Esq. Nancy S. Henderson P & T Garage Collision Repair Specialists All Repairs 100% Guaranteed 52 Main Street (Route 6) Terryville, CT 06786 Telephone (860) 589-7235 Fax: (860) 589-4511 Your Local Convenience Store 569 Main Street • 860-484-7311 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 5:30am-9pm, Sun. 7am-7pm Quality, Store-Made Deli Products! We Make Great Party Platters! Grinders • Sandwiches • Soups • Salads Accountant (860) 584-2165 Small Business and Individual Accounting, Bookkeeping and Taxes 185 Main Street Terryville, CT 06786 Fax: (860) 584-4654 Email: nshenderson@comcast.net The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 11 Boy Scout Troop 75 January Events Local News Pack 75 Holds First Annual Sponsored Pinewood Derby Race “A big Thank You to our sponsors!” from Pack 75!! The Troop schedule this month included a variety of patrol camp outs at Camp Mattatuck in Plymouth, Connecticut. The themes of their outings included board games, cooking, and fire building among others. The individual patrol campouts offer the boys an opportunity to bond and work together as a smaller unit of the overall troop. For more information on Camp Mattatuck, our local Cub and Boy Scout camp, please visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/CampMattatuck. The boys are also working this month on constructing snow shoes for each active member of the troop at the Wednesday night meetings. The scouts are using PVC pipe, hard plastic, parachute cord and a variety of other materials on a design borrowed from a neighboring troop. Hopefully we will get some snow in the next month or so where they can actually be used! The troop leaders, scouts and parents would like to invite the general public to our annual ziti dinner that will be held on Saturday March 14, 2015, from 4:30pm to 7:30pm at the Terryville Congregational Church. This is our main fundraiser for the year and provides the troop with income to assist in funding the outdoor program along with necessary troop equipment purchases. Troop 75 also receives significant support from local businesses that enable the troop to continue to provide an active and rewarding program to the scouts of our troop. Please remember to put it on your calendar! Troop 75 welcomes new boys aged 11 to 17 and meets at 7:00 pm every Wednesday night at the Terryville Congregational Church on Main Street in Terryville. No prior Scouting experience is necessary. If you would like additional information about joining Troop 75 and having your son participate in our activities, please email the following address: email755-t75@yahoo.com The top three finishers were: 1.) Richards Corp 2.) Delpha LLC 3.) Cliffs Auto Plymouth Auto Pondering Creations AJ’s Car Audio Richards Corp Cliffs Auto D + D Auto Carling Technologies T.A. Pronovost Hometown Pizza Lee Hardware Genevese Mfg Tom’s Used Auto Terryville Chevrolet Polytech MFD Allread Products Thomaston Savings Bank The Learning Center Delpha LLC. Terryville Auto Parts North East Fasteners BADD BDP Truck Builders Webster Used Auto Terryville Pizza R + B Auto Builders MGB Tire Rick Fox The Plymouth Connection The scouts raised $1,300 dollars and will be using to proceeds to put towards the purchase of an enclosed trailer for their pack. Girl Scouts of CT Troop 75 Annual ziti dinner Saturday March 14th 4:30pm to 7:30pm Terryville Congregational Church Tickets are available at the door: Adults $9.00 Seniors $8.00 Children 6 and under $7.00 Who: Girls in Grades K-5 in Thomaston, Plym- When you can hardly sleep because you just can’t outh/Terryville wait for it all to start? That’s the feeling you get in Girl Scouts! Join Girl Scouts and spend your What: Create a Butterfly Ring and learn more time having fun with your friends while you try about Girl Scouts new things, visit exciting places, and explore the When: Thursday, February 5, 2015 at 6:30 pm world around you. Come see the amazing things Girl Scouts in your area are doing and learn how Where: Plymouth Center School, 107 North you can be a part of it all! Street, Plymouth. This event will be canceled if As a Girl Scout, you can try many new things. schools are closed or dismiss early due to weather You can learn about technology, play sports and Attention girls in grades K-5 in Thomaston, games, experiment with math and science, earn Plymouth/Terryville. Join us at Plymouth Center badges, attend fun workshops, travel to new placSchool, 107 North Street, Plymouth on Thursday, es, and much more! Girl Scouts gives every girl acFebruary 5, 2015 at 6:30 pm to create your own cess to fun-filled experiences that inspire her and Butterfly Ring and learn more about Girl Scouts. show her she can do anything she sets her mind You must be accompanied by your parent/guard- to. Girl Scouts of Connecticut offers girls the lifeian. This event will be canceled if schools are time skills needed to discover their personal best, closed or dismiss early because of weather. connect with others, and take action in their com Contact Teresa Allen at tallen@gsofct.org or munities to make the world a better place. 203-757-1340 ext 3615 with questions! For more information about Girl Scouts of You know that feeling you when one day is Connecticut, please call 1-800-922-2770 or visit over and you can’t wait for the next one to start? us on the web at www.gsofct.org. Page 12 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Terryville Fire Department Smoke Alarms In the event of a fire, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms will provide an early warning alarm to your household. This alarm could save your own life and those of your loved ones by providing the chance to escape. Why should you have Smoke Alarms? In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are a very important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal – so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety devices you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home. What types of Smoke Alarms are available? There are many different brands of smoke alarms available on the market but they all fall under two basic types: ionization and photoelectric. Ionization alarms sound more quickly when flaming, fast moving fire occurs. Photoelectric alarms are quicker at sensing smoldering, smoky fires. There are also combination smoke alarms that combine ionization and photoelectric into one unit, called dual sensor smoke alarms. Because both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting distinctly yet potentially fatal fires, and because homeowners cannot predict what type of fire might start in a home, the U. S. Fire Administration recommends the installation of both ionization and photoelectric or dual sensor smoke alarms. In addition to the basic types of alarms, there are alarms made to meet the needs of people with hearing disabilities. These alarms may use strobe lights that flash and/or vibrate to assist in alerting those who are unable to hear standard smoke alarms when they sound. Where do you put Smoke Alarms? Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Where can you get Smoke Alarms? Many hardware, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. Are Smoke Alarms difficult to install? If your smoke alarms are hard wired, that is wired into the electrical system, you need to have a qualified electrician do the initial installation or install replacements. For battery powered smoke alarms, all you will need for installation is a screw driver. Some brands are self adhesive and will easily stick to the wall or ceiling where they are placed. For all installations, be sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions because there are differences between various brands. If you are uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend for help. How do you keep your Smoke Alarm working? If you have a smoke alarm with batteries: 1. Smoke alarms powered by long-lasting batteries are designed to replace the entire unit according to manufacturer’s instructions. 2. In standard type battery powered smoke alarms, the batteries need to be replaced at least once per year and the whole unit should be replaced every 8-10 years. 3. In hard-wired, battery back up smoke alarms, the batteries need to be checked monthly, and replaced at least once per year. The entire unit should be replaced every 8-10 years. Helpful Tips Pick a holiday or birthday and replace batteries each year on that day. If your smoke alarm starts making a “chirping” noise, replace the batteries and reset it. What if the Smoke Alarm goes off while you are cooking? Then it’s doing its job. Do not disable your smoke alarm due to cooking or non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The smoke alarm may need to be moved to a new location. Some of the newer models have a “hush” button that silences nuisance alarms. How long will your Smoke Alarm last? Most smoke alarms installed today have a life span of about 8-10 years. After this time, the entire unit should be replaced. It is a good idea to write the date of purchase with a marker on the inside of your alarm so you will know when to replace it. Some of the newer smoke alarms already have the purchase date written inside. In any event, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement. Check out the new smoke alarm technology. Worry – Free 10 year sealed lithium battery operated smoke alarms are now available. With the new 10 year sealed lithium battery operated smoke alarms you never replace the battery during the alarm’s operating life. Is there anything else you should know? Some smoke alarms are considered to be “hard-wired”. This means they are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have battery backup. It’s important to test every smoke alarm monthly and replace batteries with new ones at least once per year. Until Next Month, Stay Safe! Submitted by Tony Orsini, Terryville Fire Department Health and Safety Officer Source: U. S. Fire Administration. 92 Main Street • Terryville, CT 06786 Sunrise Market Deli & Catering Baked Chicken Pieces Roasted Chicken Pieces Chicken Parmigiana (add $1.00 per person) Lemon Pepper Chicken (add $1.00 per person) Stuffed Cabbage (add $2.00 per person) Seafood Newburg w/Rice (add $2.00 per Scalloped Potatoes with Ham Pieces Pork & Beans with Cocktail Franks Cavatelli & Broccoli- Served Warm (add $.50 per person) Sausage & Peppers Eggplant Parmigiana Lasagna (add $1.00 per person) Hot Roast Beef, Sliced (add $2.00 per person) person) Store Baked Turkey, Sliced w/Gravy (add $2.00 per person) Store Baked Ham, Sliced, w/Brown Sugar Sauce (add $2.00 per person) 589-4086 Grinders • Cold & Hot Oven Sandwiches • Delicatessen Dairy • Groceries • Newspapers • Cigarettes Catering Menu Kielbasa & Cabbage Baked Macaroni & Cheese Ziti with Meat Sauce Meat Balls in Sauce Sausage in Sauce Oven Brown Potatoes Green Beans Almondine Fresh Garden Salad Potato with Egg Salad Macaroni Salad with Tuna or Shrimp Cole Slaw Party Grinder ($12.00 per foot) Cold Cut Platter - Made with Roast Beef, Imported Polish Ham, Genoa Salami, Turkey Breast, American Cheese, Imported Swiss Cheese and Provolone Cheese Hard Rolls Includes: Dinner Rolls w/Butter, Coffee, Cups, Sugar, Milk, Plates, Napkins and Plastic Ware Free Delivery for orders over 30 people. Group 1 - $12.00 per person 4 Hot Items 1 Salad Cold Cut Platter Group 2 - $12.00 per person 5 Hot Items 1 Salad Group 4 - $10.00 per person 3 Hot Items 1 Salad • No party too large or too small! • We use only fresh vegetables in all of our catering! • All items are cooked fresh the day of your affair! • Desserts Available Upon Request Holy Pierogies December 18, 2014 - January 18, 2015 12-18-14…..Gas investigation – Lake Plymouth Blvd. 12-24-14…..Lift assist – Main Street 12-24-14…...Investigation – Harwinton Ave 12-25-14….. Mutual aid to Harwinton FD 12-27-14…..Water heater malfunction – Holt Street 12-27-14…..Activated alarm – Garden Street 12-29-14…..MVA with fluids on roadway – Wolcott Rd. 12-29-14…..Fluids on roadway – Fall Mtn. Rd. @ Old Waterbury Rd. 12-30-14…..Mutual aid to Thomaston FD 12-31-14…..MVA fluids on roadway – Tulip Street 01-01-15…..MVA rollover – Main Street 01-01-15…..Activated alarm – Main Street 01-01-15…..Invest6igation – Eastview Road 01-03-15…..Activated alarm – Gosinski Park 01-04-15…..Wires down – Sylvan Avenue 01-06-15…..Activated alarm – Main Street 01-06-15…..Activate alarm – Old Farm Road 01-07-15…..Investigation – Main Street 01-07-15…..Investigation – Main Street 01-07-15…..Investigation – Main Street 01-08-15…..Structure fire – Dorothy Lane 01-08-15…..Water problem – High Street 01-11-15…..Chimney fire – Crestview Street 01-13-15…..MVA – North Main Street 01-13-15…..Lift assist – North Main Street 01-14-15…..Activated carbon monoxide alarm-Missy Rd. 01-14-15…..Gas investigation – Eagle Street 01-15-15…..Gas investigation- East Orchard St. @ Eagle St. 01-17-15…..MVA – North Harwinton Avenue 01-18-15…..Structure fire – South Main Street 01-18-15…..MVA Poland Brook Road 01-21-15…..MVA – Jackson Street 01-22-15…..Gas investigation – Orchard Street 01-24-15…..Dive team request – Morris FD 01-26-15…..Gas investigation – Haase Avenus Submitted by Chief Mark Sekorski Terryville Fish and Game Club Terryville, Connecticut Founded 1905 Annual Ice Fishing Derby February 7, 2015 The Terryville Fish & Game Club will be holding its annual ice fishing derby Saturday, February 7, 2015 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Middle Pond on Grove Street, Terryville. Derby registration will begin at 7 a.m. in the clubhouse. The public is invited. Breakfast sandwiches and refreshments will be available starting at 6:30 a.m. in the clubhouse. For additional information about the derby contact Eileen Klimanoski at (860) 589-4740 or Tony Orsini at (860) 589-6684. Family Night Corned Beef & Cabbage Supper Group 3 - $10.00 per person 4 Hot Items 1 Salad Pre-order for Easter .... Start Planning ....New New York York Your Events Early! Babka & Kielbasa T.F.D. Fire Calls Many Varieties In Stock Now! The Terryville Fish & Game Club will be hosting A Family Night Corned Beef & Cabbage Supper on Saturday, March 14, 2015 at the Middle Pond Clubhouse on Grove Street, Terryville. The public is invited. The supper will be served buffet style. The menu includes sliced corned beef, vegetables (cabbage, potatoes, and carrots), onion soup, rye bread & butter, desserts, coffee and tea. Other beverages will be available at a slight charge. The first sitting will be a 5 p.m., while the second supper sitting will be at 7 p.m. Each sitting will be limited to fifty tickets. The cost is adults $12, children 6 to 12 years old $6, and children 5 years old and under are free. For additional information call Tony Orsini at 860-589-6684 or Bill Arlofski at 860-589-7399. The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 13 Time To Plan for the Spring Market is NOW! 1st Get Expert Advise From Michael Ganem & Associates... 2nd List Your Home With Mga... LD O S O S 4 Magnolia Lane 6 Diamond Street LD LD O S LD 11 Joseph Street LD O S O S 66 East Washington Road O S O LD O S 32 Makara Street 48 Eastview Road 56 Orchard Street LD LD LD O 129 High Street O S LD O S O S 240 North Harwinton Avenue M G ichael anem 328 South Street & Associates, LLC LD O S 8 Prospect Street Ext. LD O S 22 Crestview Road LD S ... 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Some candle fire statistics • Over half (55%) of home candle fires start because a candle is too close to some combustible material. • More candle fires (38%) begin in the bedroom than in any other room. • Falling asleep is a factor in 12% of home candle fires and 26% of the associated deaths. • Half of all civilian candle fire deaths occur between midnight and 6 a.m. • December is the peak month for candle fires; Christmas is the peak day. • Young children and older adults have the highest death risk from candle fires. • The risk of a fatal candle fire appears higher when candles are used for light. Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – Candles Fires, September 2007 Tragic and Preventable Candle Fires • Three sleeping boys died when a candle left burning in the living room ignited nearby combustibles. • A man and his three children died in a fire when wax from an unattended candle dripped on curtains, igniting them. • Eleven members of a family died in a fire when a lighted candle ignited a mattress. • Two children died in a fire when a lighted candle rolled under the Christmas tree. • A mother and young baby died when a burning candle used for religious observances ignited cabinetry. Fact: The majority of candle fires result from human error and negligence. Candle Fire Safety Tips • Avoid using lighted candles. • If you do use candles, ensure they are in sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked down. • Keep candles out of reach of children and pets. • Set a good example by using matches, lighters, and fire carefully. • Children should never be allowed to play with matches, lighters or candles. • Never put candles on a Christmas tree. • Never leave the house with candles burning. • Extinguish candles after use. • Establish a fire-safe home, especially a safe sleeping environment. • And NEVER leave burning candles unattended. Winter Storm Safety It doesn’t take sub-zero temperatures or blizzard conditions to make winter dangerous. Flurries and cold temperatures can create icy conditions hazardous to your home and the road. Awareness, preparedness, and a strong dose of common sense will help keep you safe. Start with your home When thinking about winter preparedness, start with your home. Blizzards and ice storms can cause power outages and immobilize towns and cities, therefore, delaying emergency response and repair. It is recommended to have the following winter preparedness items on hand: • Extra blankets • A battery-powered flashlight and spare batteries • A portable radio • Canned or boxed non-perishable food • A manual can opener • At least three gallons of water for every person in the family and enough food and water for any family pets. • A warm coat, gloves, hat and water-resistant boots for every member of the household. • Make sure you consider and can accommodate any special needs of babies, the elderly and disabled family members, as well as family pets. • If you have a wood or coal stove or a pellet stove or use space heater in the home, be aware of potential fire and/or carbon monoxide hazards; always keep a space heater at least three feet from anything that can burn like bedding, clothing and furniture, and don’t drape clothing over a space heater to dry. Keep warm and dry in cold temperatures Think twice before you head outdoors in cold weather conditions. Dressing appropriately and keeping dry can prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Consider the following: • Wear layers. As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from the body more rapidly. Wearing multiple layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothes with a layer of tightly woven and water repellent materials will insulate better than one layer of heavy clothing. Wear a hat, mittens and cover your mouth with a clean scarf to protect your lungs from the cold air. • Wear a pair of water-resistant or water proof boots with good traction. Slip and fall accidents can easily happen, especially if you’re not wearing the correct footwear. If you must wear dressier shoes, bring them along and change out of your boots when you get inside. • Keep your clothes dry. If your clothes get wet, change out of them as soon as possible. • Drink plenty of liquids to help prevent dehydration. When it is cold outside, people don’t drink as much because they don’t feel thirsty, avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine though. Alcohol, while it may give a feeling of warmth, actually increases the speed of heat loss in the body and caffeine can also hasten the effects of dehydration and lead to hypothermia. Be prepared for outdoor activities Winter activities like skiing and snowmobiling can be an adventure for the whole family. Following a few simple rules can help make sure you don’t get lost or stuck in the cold. • Don’t go out alone. It’s more fun and safer when a friend joins your winter weather fun. • Let others know your itinerary. Tell friends and family members where you are going and when they should expect you to return. • Bring along the appropriate supplies. If you are snowmobiling, make sure you are wearing the proper clothing and gear and bring extra tools and parts, like your owner’s manual, extra spark plugs, a tow rope, a small tool kit, a flashlight, a first aid kit, extra parts, a blanket, waterproof matches and a compass. Take precautions with your car Driving in bad weather is a challenge as roads can become slick after an afternoon of snow flurries and freezing temperatures. One accident has a domino affect and can lead to more crashes. Before the weather gets cold, get your vehicle ready for winter: • Get current with oil changes. Oil can thicken when it gets colder, and oil that is too thick will not keep your engine properly lubricated. • Be able to clear/clean windows. Check the quality of your windshield wiper blades, fill-up on windshield washer fluid and keep an ice/snow scraper in your vehicle. • Check your battery. The middle of a parking lot during a snowstorm is the last place you want to discover that your vehicle’s battery can not hold a charge. • Check your tire air pressure and tread depth. Properly inflated tires with good tread will help provide the best possible traction, something that is easily jeopardized in wintry conditions. Until Next Month, Stay Safe! Submitted by Tony Orsini, Terryville Fire Department Health and Safety Officer Source: Foremost Insurance Group Submitted by Tony Orsini, Terryville Fire Department Health and Safety Officer Farmington Ave. | Bristol CT. | 860-582-8858 Page 16 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Chamber & Rotary Terryville Rotary Club Announces Student of the Month You are invited to join the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce in honoring their Award recipients at the The Rotary Club Student of the Month for December, 2014 is Cara Andrews, an 8th grade student at Eli Terry Jr. Middle School. She is pictured here with her teacher, John Mordarski; mother, Carol; Principal, Angie Suffridge; Rotary President, Michael Ganem. The Rotary Club of Terryville recognizes students in grades 6-12 on a monthly basis as “The Student of the Month”. Students are selected by teachers and administrators for their academic, social and community service success. Students are honored by the Rotary Club at a luncheon meeting, accompanied by their parents and teachers. Students are also awarded a savings bond in recognition of their accomplishments. 2015 Annual Dinner Tuesday, March 24, 2015 Pequabuck Golf Club 6 :00 p.m. Buffet Dinner Cost $45 per person Congratulations to: Chet Scoville, Jr. 21-Day Gratitude Challenge By Janet Johnson I write this with complete love. Did you ever notice how in our culture, many people confuse complaining and commiserating with socializing? I didn’t notice it until a couple years ago when first I enrolled in a business school for spiritual entrepreneurs. After my three-day retreats, I’d come back home on a personal and emotional high from being with all these wonderful people. Unfortunately, coming home to “regular life” can be a shock to the system depending on your community if you aren’t mindful. There aren’t as many hugs and heart-felt connections. In regular life, referred to as the “Muggle World” (see Harry Potter) by many, people try to be a positive light and they do this in a comparative way. “Let’s be grateful for all that we have because our problems aren’t as bad as other people’s problems.” That’s a little backwards too. It’s like tossing toxic waste on a Vincent van Gogh painting. There’s an underlying expression of individual talent and beauty (symbolized by the painting) that we’re afraid to show (symbolized by the trash) for fear of hurting someone else’s feelings. “If I tell my friends about my promotion, my business success, my new car, etc. they are going to make mean comments and say something like, “Who do you think you are?”” Many times, there’s sarcasm, doubt, and jealousy. People say, “Sure that person can be happy. They didn’t have the hard life I’ve had.” This doesn’t resonate either. Some of the most abundantly loving people I have ever met are abuse survivors, recovering addicts, and people who have been severely depressed and formerly suicidal. I really don’t know why we talk this way. Our natural expression as people is love and acceptance. It’s our common goal to be happy and to have a life of joy and purpose. By cheering on a friend who’s aiming for this and experiencing it, we also are fueled to experience it too. That’s where this gratitude challenge comes into play. Thank you to my friend Heather Hemphill who reminded me of this. If you visit www.GratitudeChallenge.com, you will find a wonderful 21-day challenge that will make your life and business more positive. Gratitude isn’t about comparing and it isn’t about, “When I achieve X, Y, Z I will be happy and thankful.” It isn’t sarcastic either. It isn’t fear-based or scarcity-based (mistakenly believing that when someone else succeeds, that takes away our opportunity to succeed). Instead, this is about stepping out on faith – knowing that God is bigger and stronger than any earthy challenges in front of us. Gratitude is about being thankful for what we have. Even the things that we think are really small and insignificant are infinitely valued. I will share two personal examples. 1) When my husband and I had house showings last summer (we moved in August), I didn’t have enough money to buy fresh flowers for every showing. Instead, I walked around our backyard and made bouquets of wildflowers and ferns. Because of all the work I put into it, this helped me funnel more pride into my house showings and think more positively about it. I also felt good about myself for recognizing the beauty in these plants that others might overlook as weeds. 2) In our new home, I have two birdfeeders. Every morning, we love watching our regular visitors – two cardinals, two blue jays, two woodpeckers, two squirrels, and mini-flocks of doves, chickadees, and snowbirds. It makes me feel really happy to have a home where even the most vulnerable wildlife feels safe and welcome. Would you like to do this gratitude challenge with me? Visit www.GratitudeChallenge.com, watch the video, and download the calendar. Living a life of gratitude will surely improve your life, business, and personal relationships. Please email me at Janet@ManufacturingAdvances.com and let me know how it’s going. Happy Valentine’s Day! Leadership Award MaryLynn Gagnon Service Award Terryville Lions Club CLERF Project Special Community Project Award Local Prevention Council Community Support Award Plymouth Connection Distinguished Business Award Celebrate With Us! R.S.V.P. 2015 Annual Dinner Name Company Address Phone E-mail Attendee If you would like to place an ad in the Program Book, ad prices are: 1/4 page $25 • 1/2 page $50 • Full page $100 You can also e-mail your ad to: Robin at robing@plymouthct.us For ticket(s) and / or an ad, please enclose this form with your check made payable to Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and mail to: PO Box 335, Terryville, CT 06786 The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 17 Mentalist Entertainer Coming to Thomaston 20th Annual Edmund Ganem Memorial 5K Run / Walk The Rotary Club of Thomaston in conjunction with other area Rotary Clubs is presenting “The Stetson Experience” featuring internationally acclaimed intuitionist, Jon Stetson on February 6, 2015 at 8:00 PM in the Historic Thomaston Opera House. The show is a family friendly event intended as a fun filled evening to raise funds for the Rotary International Clean Water Project. Tickets are $30 for all ages. Special discounts are available through local Rotary Clubs and their members. Please contact a Rotarian or the Thomaston Opera House for tickets. You may also get information and tickets from www.landmarkcommunitytheatre. org or http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Rotary-Club-of-Thomaston About the show Have you ever wondered if the person across the room looking at you might know what you are thinking? If the person across the room is mentalist Jon Stetson, there is a good chance he does. Mr. Stetson has been entertaining audiences for over 25 years. President Bush, President Carter, The King of Sweden, Donald Trump, Bob Kraft & The New England Patriots, Fortune 1000 organizations, associations and celebrity audiences Sponsored by The Rotary Club Of Terryville Sunday, May 3, 2015 Lake Winfield, Terryville Intersection of Harwinton Ave, Bemis and Holt St Schedule of Activities: 9:30 –Registration 10:15 –Kids Fun Run 10:30-1 Mile Loop the Lake 11:00—5K Race/Walk Fees: Run/Walk $15 pre-registration/$20 race day Fun Run free/Loop the Lake $5 Free tee shirts to first 75 5k participants Electronic timing, Music, water stops Awards: M/F top runners $50 cash prize Awards to all 1st place finishers in age groups have experienced Jon Stetson worldwide. Mr. Stetson’s program is called “The Stetson Experience”. It is the power and the connection between Mind, Mirth and Mystery. It is an experience such that the audience becomes the true stars of the show. It is often described as a “Unique sleight-of-mind entertainment and mind-to-mind contact.” About the Water Project For millions of people throughout Africa, Asia, India and Latin America, getting clean water is a daily struggle. In fact, more than 80% of all sickness in the world is attributed to unsafe water. Nearly 1 billion people are without access to improved water sources and every 8 seconds, a child dies because of this crisis. Rotary International is addressing this crisis. Rotary Clubs around the world have joined together in providing clean water and sanitation to literally save lives! The Rotary Club of Thomaston is hosting this event in a continuing effort to provide clean water filtration systems to an entire village in Northwestern India through the South Asia Pure Water Initiative, Inc. (SAPWII). The next Town of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Board / Members Meeting will be held February 6th, (the first Friday of each month) at Thomaston Savings Bank, Main Street, Terryville, in the lower level, from 8am-9am. Storm cancels TO REGISTER: Contact Parkandrec@plymouthct.us (860) 585-4031 Church News February brings Love, Lent, & Community Togetherness We mark Valentine’s Day on February 14. Even if you are single, use this opportunity to tell your extended family, friends, church and community that you love them, and make every effort to spend both quality and quantity of time together. Why? Because I am reminded time and time again that life is short. Do it this month. Don’t put it off. February also marks the beginning of the Season of Lent, which officially begins on Ash Wednesday (February 18). You are all welcome to attend any of our town’s churches, and many of our churches will be offering the Imposition of Ashes (including ours - our service is at 7pm - all are welcome!). Lent is the Season of Repentance and Preparation as we think of Christ’s ministry, suffering, and journey that leads to the cross and later to the Resurrection and the joy of Easter (which is on April 5 this year). Affectionately called “Spring Training for Christians,” Lent is a wonderful time to examine your life of faith and to draw closer to God all while “giving up” or eliminating areas that separate you from God. Included in the Season of Lent is our town’s Annual Ecumenical Lenten Lunches. During Lent, each Tuesday at 12pm there will be a luncheon held at our town’s various churches. All are welcome. Each lunch is held at 12pm, $5/ person, and you are also invited to bring non-perishables for the Plymouth Food Pantry. Below is our schedule as of the writing of this article: Tues, Feb 24 - St. Paul Lutheran Church Tues, Mar 3 - TBA Tues, Mar 10 - TBA Tues, Mar 17 - Plymouth Congregational Church Tues, Mar 24 - Terryville Congregational Church The Lunches are a wonderful way to share a spirit of community togetherness. Join us! Blessings be with you, Rev. Zack Terryville Congregational Church PS- also happening this month: Sat., Feb. 21 - 4pm Gosinski Park Dinner (for all Gosinski Park Residents) Wed., Feb. 25 - 7pm our church is having our Annual Service of Remembrance. All are welcome. This is a quiet and candlelit service to remember loved ones who have passed. Sat., Feb. 28 - 7pm BINGO! Lenten Luncheons Begin February 24th The annual Lenten Luncheons sponsored by the Terryville / Plymouth Clergy Association will be held on the five Tuesdays during Lent. The first luncheon will begin at 12 Noon on February 24th and be hosted by St. Paul Lutheran Church, located at 134 Main Street (parking is in the rear of the building accessed off of Burnham Street). A $5.00 donation (or what you can afford) is requested and if you are able, please bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Plymouth Community Food Pantry. Everyone is welcome and invited to attend. The Objective Reality of God’s Love by Rev. Joel D. Kotila, Pastor, serving Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Many people wonder about God and His love. “Does God love me?” “How do I know that He truly does care about me?” “How do I know that He wants His very best for me?” People search in different places to find the answer. Some are content to believe that God must love them because they have a life of goodness and prosperity—without too many troubles—no major problems. Some think God loves them because of how they feel or because of what they do or because of personal faith. Some believe that God loves them, well, just because…because they were taught from way-back-when that God loves all people. How do you (or how can you) know with confidence that God loves you? The Holy Bible reveals that “God is love” (1 John 4:8). He is, for sure! And He loves all people. But how does a person know that with certainty? Where’s the ultimate evidence? I always point people to the objective reality of Jesus Christ on the cross. He is there for you. He is there for me. There is God’s love displayed in all of its beauty and glory. The fullness of God’s love for all people is shown in Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross—to save them from their sins. There is a reason why John 3:16 is such a popular passage of the Bible. God loved this world of sinners so much that He sent His only Son into the world to save it. There are so many passages from the Bible that assure us of God’s love in Jesus Christ. And here’s one that I cherish: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:10 NIV). This blessed and saving truth the Bible calls the Gospel—God’s “Good News.” And it includes not only the message of a Savior who died for you but who also rose to life for you. Perhaps you have heard of God’s love as summed up by the cherished song, Jesus Loves Me. Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong, they are weak but He is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. The Bible tells me so. Page 18 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Sunday, February 1st at 9 am News From St. Paul Lutheran Church February sees the start of the Lenten season at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Terryville. “And we are going in with a bang!”, laughs Pastor Lisa Watson-Barcia. To give the Wikipedia definition; ‘The word “fastnacht” means “the night before the fast,” since the doughnuts are eaten the night before Lent, when fasting is usually observed by many Christians until Easter Sunday. Making and eating fastnachts was a way to consume all the fats, such as butter and lard, kept in the house pantry, as these rich ingredients were seen as lavish and were not supposed to be eaten during the Lenten season.’ “But”, smiles Watson-Barcia, “we probably aren’t as strict about that as we might be. It is however, a great excuse to get together and be silly!” At St. Paul, there will be a talent show the night of the Fastnacht Pancake Supper. This show is part of a German tradition which is meant to both showcase talent and allow a forum for gentle ribbing of the faults and foibles of the congre- gation, its members and leadership. “Gentle!” emphasizes Watson-Barcia - “meaning we aren’t out to wound egos or batter each other. The focus is all on having a good laugh and trying to lighten spirits a bit as we turn to the solemnity of Lent.” The dinner and talent show will be on Tuesday 17 February. Tickets are available for purchase - $7 adult, $6 senior and $4 for kids 12 and under. “It is a fundraising event as well as a good time, so please bring your appetites, smiles and wallets!”, says Watson-Barcia. “We have a donut donation again this year from an anonymous donor and we would like to publicly say thank you for this person’s generosity. It allows a tradition of joy to continue!” Following the Fastnacht event, there will be Ash Wednesday services at noon and 6 on 18 February. The noon service will be held outside in the parking lot of the former Karate studio. Watson-Barica explains, “It’s called ‘Ashes to Go’ and after a brief opening service at noon, I will be there til 1pm to impose ashes on anyone who wishes to stop by. There will be a short prayer and then the sign of the cross will be made on your forehead. We are trying to reach those for whom the moment is important but their schedules may not allow them the time for a full service, or for those who maybe more comfortable away from the traditional church setting. For those whose schedules allow, a traditional service will be held in the sanctuary at 730pm, with Communion as well as the impostion of ashes.” Again this year St. Paul will be participating in the Lenten lunches with the community area churches, beginning on 24 February at St. paul and then making the rounds of the area churches. They will as well be holding a Wednesday evening potluck and service throughout Lent beginning with dinner at 630pm and service at 730pm. “All are welcome,” smiles WatsonBarcia. “Lent is a time for reflection and introspection. We invite you to come and walk this faith journey with us.” Health & Senior Terryville/Plymouth Senior News - February, 2015 One month of the New Year has gone by already, can you believe it? February is the shortest of the year and yet it holds one of the most special days. First comes Groundhog Day, I hope we don’t get six more weeks of winter, February 14th is Valentines Day, next February 16th Presidents Day. Do you remember when we celebrated the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln each separately and they both were holidays? Our first meeting in January was held on the 13th and we all enjoyed bingo after the meeting. Hanna Tucker won the door prize. It was voted that we hold our annual soup and sandwich on February 10th, at 12:30pm in the Community Room of the Town Hall. We will have beef vegetable soup and you can choose from a roast beef, combo or sea food salad sandwich. The cost is $6.00 and that includes beverage and dessert. You need to sign up at the next meeting and pay for your lunch. Hope to see you there. I now have the line up for the movies for the coming months. They are February -Sister Act, March -Grumpy Old Men, April- Singing in the Rain, and May -The Note Book. If you didn’t attend our last movie on January 14th you missed a great movie, Frozen, along with popcorn, a presentation of the chorus and a package of delicious cookies made just for us that very morning. We are working on our Corn Beef and Cabbage luncheon and more information in next months article. Remember that there is Tia Chi on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9am in the Community Room. Wednesdays the ladies gather for crocheting and knitting, Thursdays senior exercise at l0am, Mag Jongg at 11am, cards at 1pm. As always, all are welcome to come and join the various groups be it beginners or experts. Also, remember that we have books, magazines, puzzles for you to take out and enjoy. I invite you to come to our meetings that we have on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. I hope to see you soon. Please remember that if you have any questions, call me at 860-589-7837. Until next time, enjoy your day. Helena Schwalm, President Irene Cloutier and Fran Griswald putting books in the shelves Linda Kazmierski & Cathy Mackiewicz greeting seniors at the Christmas Party Seniors Christmas Party, Dec. 9th Rev. Chris Drew giving the Blessing Peter Gianesini and Mayor Merchant at our Christmas Party Your health and wellness: The effect of love on pain and your overall health Please have a Happy Valentine’s Day when it comes. With Valentine’s Day approaching I thought it might be a good opportunity to talk about something a little different from our usual subject matter but no less relevant to our overall health and wellness. We have mostly shared about topics such as mechanical neck and back pain and how our diets affect our pain and overall health and wellness. May we talk a little about how the quality of our relationships affects our health and may even impact our pain? Sometimes patients come in with neck pain, headache or back pain as their chief complaint but once we start treating and talking in the office, stress with relationships at work, relationships at home, with friends, family and even with self comes up as a major contributing factor. Sometimes, patients don’t even realize until they start talking about it that these issues were bothering them so very much. While some patients benefit from talking to a trained therapist, many just need a non judgmental listening ear. Studies show that stressed relationships can contribute to various negative health effects including increasing the risk of having a heart attack. Studies also show stress to be worse for us than diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity or smoking. Having worked in health care for almost 2 decades I see the effects of stress on patients’ health almost daily. Here are a couple of suggestions for keeping your relationships healthy, reducing your stress and even maybe improving your pain: 1)Don’t take your important relationships for granted. Make time for them every day. 2)Stay away from negative people. Spend your time with people who are uplifting. 3)Do fun stuff with your loved ones. Family togetherness cannot be over rated. 4)Talk to and listen to your loved ones. 5)Be mindful of your stress and don’t “take things out” on your loved ones 6)Make new friends: Get a hobby, join a class, volunteer all these things help us stay connected. 7)Be gentle with yourself. Sometimes we can be our worst critics and all by ourselves cause our stress to skyrocket. Please share your comments about this article and any of our other articles in our Facebook community: www.facebook.com/SaporitoChiropractic. We look forward to hearing from you and having you join us! Have a great Valentine’s Day! Regards in Health, Dr. Shepherd Open House at Saporito Chiropractic! • Do you have headaches, joint pain, neck or back pain? • Have you tried other options with less than satisfactory results? You are not alone. 80% of Americans have suffered from back pain. Our patients are getting great results! Just see their success stories at SaporitoChiropractic.com Interested in getting similar results? Please join us for our Open House on Feb. 9th 2015, 5:30-7pm. RSVP for your complimentary massage: Call Today: (860) 589-1491 www.SaporitoChiropractic.com 665 Terryville Ave., Bristol, CT 06010 The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 19 Health & Senior Please note: The senior menu was not yet available at the time of printing. The Human Services Agenda and minutes from the meetings are now posted on the Town Website. Dial-A-Ride for Seniors & Disabled Monday-Thursday 11am-3pm, and Friday 9am-12pm (parked) • Covers Terryville/Plymouth and Bristol • Available earlier (9am) if needed and out of area for medical appointments only • First come first serve • Not available for weekends or any major holidays This program is for local appointments (ex: medical, hair appts, shopping) with 2 day notice. Local is considered Plymouth/Terryville/Bristol. It is available for service out of area for medical appointments only, with at least one week notice. Call 860-283-0060 to schedule as soon as possible, at least 2 days notice for in-area and at least one week notice outside of area. HEAD LICE – The Quiet Epidemic. Dr. Joe Cherneskie Terryville Medical Center Lice are tiny insects about the size of a pin-head. Head lice are different that body lice in that they only affect the scalp. The lice lay eggs, called “nits” that look like tiny white specs stuck to the hair. Sometimes they can look like dandruff, but nits do not brush away or wash off like dandruff. The insects are easily spread by close contact with and infected person or by sharing personal items such as hats, combs, brushes, towels and bedding. Most of the time these infections are brought home by children in school. Killing the insects on a person’s body is relatively easy using medications. The hard part becomes when you try to remove them from objects. I have listed the procedure below, but the important thing is to do the medication and all the cleaning at the same time to avoid re-infection. scribed by your doctor exactly as directed. First, wash your hair with regular shampoo and towel dry. Then apply the medication to the hair to sufficiently soak all of the hair including behind the ears and the back of the neck. 2. After using the medication, you need to remove the nits from the hair, using a “nit comb” available from the pharmacy. If you have a hard time getting them, sometimes rinsing the hair with vinegar cut in half with water. 3. All personal headwear, scarves, bed linens, and such should be washed in hot water. Anything that can not go in the was should be placed in the drier on the hot cycle for 20 minutes. Anything that can not be washed or placed in the dried should be placed in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks, as the lice will die without human contact. 4. Combs and brushes may be treated in Lysol or rubbing alcohol for two hours Foot Care Clinic Friday, Feb. 20th at Town Hall 1. Use the medication, either over-the-counter, or pre- There are times when even using the measures, the infestation will still persist. If the itching continues a few days after treatment, you should see your doctor to see if any other treatment is needed. Terryville Medical Center Blood Pressure Clinic Do you have trouble reaching your feet to care for your toenails? Help is available from an APRN (nurse practitioner) who has many years of experience providing foot care. Caring for your feet and toenails is essential to your overall health and wellbeing. There is a five dollar charge for the clinic and appointments are necessary. Please call Plymouth Human services to register 860-585-4028. Certified DOT/CDL Medical Examiner Joseph Cherneskie M.D. Primary Care/Internal Medicine Once a month Bristol Hospital Home Care provides free blood pressure screening right here in Terryville! No appointment needed. Call Human Services for more information 860-585-4028. 27 Main Street • Terryville, CT 06786 Phone (860) 314-6818 Fax (860) 314-6899 February 24th, 12:30-1:30pm Eli Terry Retirement Community 20 Orchard Street Terryville. We Cannot Tell a Lie... We Deliver! Beacon Prescriptions delivers daily for FREE. Call for details. With experts in medications, health and nutrition, we’re proud to play a part in making our community stronger (and healthier). 241 Main Street, Terryville, CT 860-585-5158 Page 20 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Terryville Senior Trips Getaway Tours No Minimum Day & Overnight Tour Options for 2015 For more information or to book a space on any of the tours listed below, please contact the Getaway Tours office at (800) 247-5457 or (860) 582-9741 between 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday. February 17, 2015 - Mardi Gras at Hunt’s Landing LV: TBA $95.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Complete luncheon & full day of activities at Hunt’s Landing, and Driver’s Gratuity February 19, 2015 - CT Flower Show - LV: TBA $76.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Luncheon at the Chowder Pot, Admission to the CT Flower Show, Driver’s Gratuity Terryville Congregational Church Senior Meal Feb. 21 at Gosinski Park March 8, 2015 - AAC Semi-Final Game – Women’s Basketball Tournament at Mohegan Sun Arena - LV: TBA $66.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Tickets to the Games, Food Voucher & Casino Bonus at Mohegan Sun, and Driver’s Gratuity Away” - LV: TBA $97.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Lunch Buffet and Show, Driver’s Gratuity March 12, 2015 - St. Patrick’s Celebration at Gavin’s Resort in the Catskills - LV: TBA $83.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Irish Luncheon and Irish entertainment, 1 glass of wine or beer, visit to East Durham’s Irish shops & shrine and gratuities. May 20, 2015 - Twin River Casino in R.I. & Lobster at Cap’n Jack’s Restaurant - LV: TBA - $91.00 Per Person - Transportation, Lobster Lunch, Casino Bonus, Driver’s Gratuity March 26, 2015 - Feast of St. Joseph at the Bownstone in NY - LV: TBA $96.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Luncheon, 2 Comp Drinks, Entertainment, and Driver’s Gratuity April 1, 2015 - Radio City’s Spring Spectacular with the Rockettes - LV: TBA $169.00 Per Person - Includes: Transportation, Lunch at Carmines, Admission, Gratuities for Driver and Tour Director April 18-21, 2015 - Myrtle Beach - LV: TBA $1202.00 PP Double $1722.00 Single $1172.00 PP Double Round Trip Transportation, Hotel Accommodations, Admissions wherever applicable, 12 Meals, Cruise on Intercoastal Waterway, 4 Shows, Taxes and Baggage Handling, Gratuities for Driver & Tour Director April 23, 2015 - Newport Playhouse - “When the Cat’s May 3, 2015 - Warner Theatre –“Hello Dolly!” - LV: TBA $91.00 Per Person - Transportation, Lunch at San Marino’s, Tickets to Show May 21, 2015 - Italian Feast at Hunt’s Landing - LV: TBA $95.00 Per Person - Transportation, Luncheon and Full Day of Activities at Hunt’s Landing - Driver’s Gratuity May 27-29, 2015South Coast of Maine - LV: TBA $469.00 PP Double $579.00 PP Single $454.00 PP Single - Round Trip Transportation, Hotel Accommodations, Admissions to Attractions, 4 Meals, Taxes & Baggage Handling, Driver’s Gratuity June 23, 2015 - 9/11 Memorial and Museum - LV: TBA $111.00 Per Person - Transportation, Lunch at Carmine’s, Admission to 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Driver and Tour Director’s Gratuities June 25, 2015 - Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island - LV: TBA $102.00 Per Person - Transportation, Ferry to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, Lunch at Bonefish Grill, Gratuities for Driver & Tour Director Bristol Hospital & Health Care Group - February 2015 Programs To read a full description of each program and class, please visit www.bristolhospital.org/ events. Registration instructions are included in each program listing on the website. Free Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Informational Seminars: February 4, 6:30 – 8 pm- Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Road, Litchfield February 19, 6pm- Bristol Hospital, Hughes Auditorium- 41 Brewster Road, Bristol February 25, 6:30 – 8 pm- Farmington Marriott, 15 Farm Springs Road, Farmington To register for an info session, please call 860.585.3339 Blood Pressure Screenings: February 4, 9 – 10 am0 Village Gate of Farmington February 12, 10am – noon- Bristol Hospital Wellness Center February 16, 10 am – Noon- Pat’s IGA, Wolcott February 20, 10 am – Noon- Gnazzos February 24, 12:30 – 1:30 pm, Eli Terry Senior Housing Comforting Conversations: Cancer Support Group- February 2 & 16, 6 pm, Bristol Hospital Cancer Care Center Conference Room. For more information, please call 860.585.3356. Look Good… Feel Better- February 2, Noon2pm, Bristol Hospital Cancer Care Center Conference Room, Free. To register please call Debbie at the American Cancer Society at 800.227.2345. Alzheimer’s Support Group- February 2, 6 – 7:30 pm, Ingraham Manor Skilled Nursing Facility, Free. Nutrition and Young Children- February 3, 6 – 7:30 pm, $5. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Circle of Hope Survivor Support GroupFebruary 3, 6 pm, Bristol Hospital Hughes Auditorium. For more information, please call 860.585.3356. Evening Diabetes Support Group- February 4, 5:30 – 6:30 pm, Bristol Hospital Center for Diabetes, 102 North Street, Bristol, Free. Coping with Stress and Anger- February 4, 6-8 pm, $10. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Baby and Me Play and Support GroupThursdays, February 5 – 26, 1:30 – 2:30 pm, Free. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Great Grains: Tire of pasta and white rice? February 5, 6-7:30 pm, $5. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Handling Children’s Anger- February 10, 6 – 8 pm, $6. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Heartsaver/AED- February 10, 9 am- 12:30 pm, $70. To register, please call 860.314.0632 Cancer Caregivers Support Group- February 10, 6pm, Bristol Hospital Cancer Care Center Conference Room. For more information, please call 860.585.3356. Support Group for Parents of Children with Challenging Behaviors- February 11, 6 – 7:30 pm, Free. For more information, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers- Full certification: February 21, 9 am – 3:30pm, Recertification, February 11 & 25, 5 – 8:30 pm. Full certification: $85, Recertification: $55 Fun with Fruits and Vegetables: Not getting your five a day?!- February 12, 6 – 7:30 pm, $5. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Jump Bunch for Preschoolers- Thursdays, February 12 – March 5, 10:15 – 11am, $20 per child. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Families are First Maternity Unit Tour- February 15, 7pm, Free. To register, please visit bristolhospital.org/events Breastfeeding Workshop- February 17, 6 – 9pm, $35 per couple. To register, please visit bristolhospital.org/events Total Cholesterol, HDL and Triglyceride Screening- February 17, 8 – 10 am, Bernie Guida Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center at Bristol Hospital, $20. To schedule an appointment, please call 860.585.3580. Every Child Ready to Read- Fun for Parents and Children- February 18, 6 – 7:30 pm, Free. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Yoga for Healing Your Back- Wednesdays, February 18 – March 25, 6 – 7pm, $65. To register, please visit bristolhospital.org/events Protein Power- February 19, 6-7:30pm, $5. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895 One-Day Express Birth Preparation- February 21, 9am – 4 pm, $100 per couple ($50 for WIC). To register, please visit bristolhospital. org/events Transforming the Difficult Child: The Nurturing Heart Approach- Tuesdays, February 23 – March 2, 6-8 pm, $11/Parent or $12/Childcare Provider. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Free Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Support Group- February 24, 5:30pm (Pre Op), 6:30pm (Post Op), Bristol Hospital Hughes Auditorium, Free. The Family Reading Adventure ProgramTuesdays, February 24 – March 31, 10 – 11 am, Free for low-income families, $30 for others. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Positive Communication and Discipline for Preschoolers- February 24, 6 – 8pm, $6. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Developing Positive Communication with Parents to Improve Your Student’s Behavior- February 25, 6 -7:30 pm, $12 for early care and education providers. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Your Personal Plate- February 26, 6 – 7:30 pm, $5. To register, please call the Parent & Child Center at 860.585.3895. Quick and Convenient Service. Bristol Hospital’s Terryville Laboratory Draw Station No Appointments Necessary! • Fasting Services • 1-Hour Glucose Tolerance Testing Conveniently located within the office of Dr. Joseph Cherneskie: 27 Main Street, Terryville Monday – Friday: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm Phone: 860.314.1955 Fax: 860.314.1956 bristolhospital.org The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 21 Health & Senior COOK WILLOW HEALTH CENTER 81 Hillside Avenue Plymouth, Connecticut (860) 283-8208 Medicare/Medicaid Certified Website: www.cookwillow.com • Friendly Home Like Atmosphere • Specializing in Skilled Nursing Care • Progressive Therapy Department • Fine Dining Service • Short Term Rehabilitation • Private Suites and Bath Movies for Senior Citizens The free” Movie Madness Series” continues at Terryville High School in the auditorium for senior citizens who reside in Plymouth. Our next movie feature is “Sister Act” which will be on Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 10 am – noon at the school. Movies are free and popcorn is also available. No RSVP necessary! Future movie dates are: March 11, April 15, May 13. Please contact the high school at 860 314-2777, ext. 5413 for more information. Drop Sugar Cookies Submitted bu Kathleen Mackiewicz - A great cookie treat for Valentine’s Day! Ingredients 3/4 cup sugar plus additional sugar for topping 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted 2/3 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 2 large eggs 1. Sift flour, baking powder and salt into a medium bowl and mix well. 2. Whisk eggs in a large bowl until blended. Add sugar, oil, vanilla extract and lemon zest and mix well. Stir the dry ingredients into egg mixture until blended. Chill, covered, for 30 minutes or longer. 3. Preheat the oven to 400ºF. 4. Drop the cookie dough by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Mist the bottom of a 3-inch flat-bottom glass with water and dip glass in additional sugar. Press the top of each cookie lightly with the glass to flatten, misting glass with water and dipping in sugar before pressing each cookie. 5. Bake cookies until lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. Store in airtight containers or freeze for future use. Grandma’s Secrets: To make cookies with a rich butterscotch flavor, Grandma substituted 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar for the granulated sugar and omitted the lemon zest. She then proceeded as the recipe directed using granulated sugar for flattening. Sports & Activity Competition Champions Announcement Knights of Columbus Council 1090 Crown 2015 Free Throw Champions Plymouth Parks and Recreation Time to Think Summer! Youth Summer Camp: K – 6th Grades NEW: Teen Adventure Travel Camp: 7th – 10th Grades Registrations to Open in February! Please LIKE our Facebook page to receive the latest updates, and view our registration site often, at www.PlymouthTownRec.com. Early Registration Discounts Available! Activities for Winter and Spring: • Youth Summer Camp • Teen Adventure Travel Camp • Art & Tea (last Saturday of each month) • Dog Obedience with Val • Fly-Tying Class • Gymnastics/Hip Hop • Combo Class - Tap, Tumbling, Hip Hop • RESERVE NOW: Community Garden Plots • Open Gym, Adult, Men’s General Information: • Excel Martial Arts • Tai-Chi • Youth Basketball • Girls Basketball • Travel Basketball • Cheerleading, Boys & Girls • Horseback Riding • Adult Volleyball • Senior Exercise • Yoga, Active for Adults Five boys from Plymouth CT, ages 9 to 14, were named local champions of the 2015 Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship and have earned the right to compete at the district level. Council 1090 in Terryville sponsored the local competition at Eli Terry Jr. Middle School. All boys and girls ages 9 to 14 were eligible to participate. The nine-year-old champion was Gary Kozikowski. Nicholas Fusco was the Elmo’s Birthday Bash Registrations for many activities are on a continuing basis. Please call or email the P&R Dept. for details and fees. Some programs may qualify for a $10 Early Registration Discount! Like us on Facebook for special announcements and updates, and share our posts with your friends! facebook.com/plymouthcttownrec e-mail: ParksandRec@plymouthct.us Parks & Rec: 860-585-4031 Visit www.PlymouthTownRec.com for Details & Updates on all Programs & Classes! Page 22 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 winner in the 10-year-old boys’ division. The twelve-year old frontrunner was Zackary Rinkavage. The 13-year-old division was won by Steven Driscoll and the fourteen-year-old champion was Mike Tiscia. Each contestant was allowed 15 free throw attempts in the contests.These winners will compete in the district competition with an eye toward moving on to the state and international levels. On Friday, February 13th and Saturday February 14th from 10:00am-1:00pm, Imagine Nation, A Museum Early Learning Center will host a special Family Festival “Elmo’s Birthday Bash” Come meet the Loveable, huggable Elmo! Dance and Sing in celebration of his Birthday! Wear Elmo’s favorite color (RED) and get a prize. The letter of the day is “E” the number of the day is “3” the color of the day is “RED”. Decorate & Dine on a yummy ELMO cupcake for $2.00. There will also be a Special Sesame Street guest there to help celebrate Elmo’s Birthday. Pizza and snacks are also available for an additional cost in our old-fashioned soda fountain. Program is included with museum admission, $10.00 per person. Imagine Nation Museum members and children under one are free. Library passes and ACM Memberships are not accepted for this event. For further information, call the museum at 860-314-1400, or visit www.imaginemuseum.org. Classified Sports/Leisure/Activity Now Taking ApplicationsEli Terry Retirement Community Terryville Legion Baseball Teams 2014 Season The Terryville Legion Baseball teams 2014 season was our most successful season in many years. The team finished with a winning record for the season and advanced to the second round in the state tournament eventually losing in a very competitive 9 inning game. The team will be back together for the 2015 season looking to secure a Zone championship. Any players looking to tryout this season should send you contact information to TTALBASEBALL@AOL.COM We thank all our local 2014 Sponsors for your support (Beacon Prescription, Plymouth Oil, The Terryville Lions, Rays Car Star, Thomaston Savings Bank, The Plymouth Police Union, Richards Corporation, The Polish Club and Scotts Funeral Home) Owner: Terryville Retirement Community Corp., located at: 20 East Orchard St., Terryville, CT 06786. Income Limits: One Person,51,000; Two Persons, 57,500. Funded by: The U.S. Department of Agriculture / Rural Development. Eligible household must have a head, co-head, or spouse 62 or over or eligible disabled. 2 units adapted for persons with disabilities who need those features. For Information Contact: Eli Terry Retirement Community, Phone: (860) 589-1160 Fax: (860) 583-6505 TRS: 800-872-9710. Eli Terry is an Equal Opportunity Housing Provider and Employer. To Place a Classified Ad Classified ads are $10.00 for 25 words or less. Lost and found ads are free. Special Birthday / Anniversary announcements are $10.00 with a photo. To ensure your ad will appear please send complete information and mail with check made payable to: The Plymouth Connection 75 Kearney Street, Terryville, CT 06786 Ad must be received by the 20th of the month prior to publication. John Casanova Casanova John Owner Owner 655Hewey Main Street 161 Street Plymouth, CT CT 06782 Waterbury, 06708 FreeEstimates Estimates Free FullyLicensed Licensedand andInsured Insured Fully HIC #0618953 #0635095 HIC 860-283-8158 Toll 877-283-8158 Toll Free: Free: Cell: 877-283-8158 203.843.3058 The Value of Being a Role Model The Plymouth Parks and Recreation Youth Basketball Program is fully underway as the league enters its third week of games. The games, which take place every Saturday at the Eli Terry Jr. Middle School gymnasium, showcase the young talent in the Terryville/Plymouth area as children between fourth and eighth grade battle it out on the court. The games start at 9:30 a.m. and the final game starts at 11 a.m. every Saturday. The championship game is scheduled for March 8th. One person who has became a mentor for so many young athletes in Terryville, is the 23 year old Marshal Szyndlar. Szyndlar, who started volunteering for the Town Rec way back in 2006, during his freshman year of high school, still continues to both coach and referee every Saturday morning. “Basketball was always my favorite sport,” Szyndlar said. “Basketball taught me team work and dedication. I just wanted to be part of it after my playing days were over. We need more programs like this.” Szyndlar has seen a huge improvement in the league in the last couple of years, which he believes is, in a large part, due to the new Plymouth Parks & Recreational Director, Michael Ganem. “Rec is an institution,” Szyndlar said. “Everything is founded off of a belief system. I know that the people in charge (Michael Ganem and Jay Dorso) are making the necessary steps to improve the league. Mr. Ganem (Michael Ganem) was a coach before and I truly believe he is great for the job.” I Remember When... Return With Me Now To Early T.V. The words of my mother, sometime prior to 1947: “Someday, there’ll be a radio with pictures”. She was right. Even though television already was in existence, it was purely a rich-man’s plaything. Very few programs were broadcast, and they were strictly one-time events, without the benefit of networks, etc. I believe that some major sports events, and possibly a Presidential inauguration were sent out on the airways. Then it happened. My dad and I were floating around New Britain (my Mom and my sister were also “doing their thing”) and I saw my first T.V. set in a store window. As I remember it, it was a big wooden box which had a small, 6-inch (diagonal measurement) screen. The picture was black and white, and was quite unstable; flickering, and often rolling. Also, the picture would simply turn to “snow” at times. But it was, to us, a new invention; exciting to behold. Think about being able to see what you could only imagine; what only a few months before were merely voices “inside the box”. Daily T.V. programming didn’t start until around 2:00 in the afternoon, and then only a “test pattern” would appear on the screen, but we’d watch it anyway. Such was the miracle of T.V.; sending actual images through the air. At first, we had only one T.V. Station in Connecticut. It was WNHC Channel 6 out of New Haven (Now WTNH Channel 8) ; “Connecticut’s Window on the World”. With luck, and with proper atmospheric conditions, we could “pick up” the Dumont network out of New York (Jackie Gleason started there). Reception was good if you lived in an area that had no large obstructions between you and the T.V. station, such as mountains, etc. Sometimes, when the reception was bad, you had to go outside and turn the antenna. This could entail a trip to the roof if the antenna was attached to the chimney, but if it was mounted against the side of the house, the base, a galvanized pipe, could be turned by a pipe wrench from ground-level. Anyway, once you got a picture up on the screen, you could sit back and enjoy “Uncle Milty” (Milton Berle) on Tuesday nights on the Texaco Star Theatre, or Sid Caeser, Imogene Cocca, Carl Reiner and Howie Morris on Saturday nights on “Your Show of Shows”. On Sunday night, we’d watch Ed Sullivan, the “Nationally Syndicated Columnist of the New York Daily News” on the “Toast of the Town”. Mr. Sullivan pioneered in bringing people like Elvis Presley and The Beatles to live T.V. Even though the league has seen an large improvement in recent years, Szyndlar believes that more volunteering from the town’s high school and college students can go a long way in the overall betterment of the Plymouth Parks and Recreation Youth Basketball Program. “There is a responsibility of the young adults in town to give back, just like I saw as a kid,” Szyndlar said. “The gym used to be full of high school and college kids, such as Dave Alacron and Pat Norton, helping out and becoming mentors and role models for so many young children. The kids need to have a role model around their age group. It’s essential.” The Plymouth youth basketball program is a “small and strong community”, as Szyndlar put it; but there is no reason why the program can’t expand into a big and strong community. It’s up to the residents of town, of all ages, to help the youth of Plymouth and the Plymouth Parks and Recreation program expand. There is no better way to warm up on a cold, winter morning than to attend a local basketball game in a heated gym, helping Marshal Szyndlar and his fellow group of volunteers make indelible memories on the youth of this great town, that will last a lifetime. From, Christopher Griffin Chris Griffin is a ten year resident of Terryville and a graduate of Holy Cross High School. Chris is currently an journalism major and a senior at Western Connecticut State University. He is an aspiring sports writer and screen- play writer. The News was “something else”. For the first time, you could actually see world events, after having listened to the likes of Lowell Thomas or Walter Winchell on the radio. In June of 1950, when the Korean War broke out, we saw our troops fighting in the bitter cold and snow, or slogging in the mud as they fought the North Koreans and later, the Chinese Communists. These images were, of course films taken a day or two before, and rushed back home to be broadcast. John Cameron Swaze, the NBC commentator, sat at a desk with several clocks on the wall behind him; that was all. He covered more news in his fifteen minute program than they do today in two hours. This was real news. News that you needed to hear about. We didn’t have to keep up with the Kardashians. During those early days, if you wanted to have a T.V. set, (and who didn’t?), you’d go down to your local Radio/T.V. or Appliance store to buy one. Aside from purchasing antenna wires, chimney straps and the latest -style antenna, your only out-of-pocket cost would be the T.V. set itself. T.V.’s were not cheap, but year by year, more and more people were able to afford one. Traveling along the highway, you could check on the growth of T.V. ownership by counting the increasing number of T.V. antennas on the houses that you passed. Once you had one in your house, the only financial obligation that you had was to the store where you purchased it. All you had to do was plug it in and turn on the switch. As the numbers of broadcasting channels increased, you could just turn the dial on the set to the number of the channel that you wanted to watch, and sit back and relax. At this point, you’d probably pull up a folding metal “T.V. Table” and enjoy a snack or a meal from a frozen “T.V. Dinner”. If you had a problem, you could call your local Radio/T.V. repair man, and he would come out to your house, carrying a big box containing large numbers of tubes. These were placed in slots on either side (the box opened up like a doctor’s medical bag), each in a box with a number. The T.V. repairman looked almost like an MD making a house call (They did that in those days). Oh, to return to those days of yesteryear, which were so uncomplicated. Today, we/re stuck in contracts with cable companies which offer “packages” of T.V., telephone, and computers all combined. Rates are high, and you don’t have a choice of what to watch, and the service leaves much to be desired. Sometimes, I think the reception is no better than it was back in the 1950’s.You’re getting less and paying more, and the “deal” that is offered at the time you subscribe only lasts a year or so, and then the price goes up. Also, you can’t get out of a contract without a huge penalty. When I was a kid, with only one or two channels, we were happy to watch “I Love Lucy”, “Howdy Doody” and “Kukla, Fran, and Ollie”, and we didn’t have a contract. Dick Foote The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 23 Terryville Public Library 238 Main Street Terryville, CT 06786 http://www.terryvillepl.info Circulation/Children’s: (860) 582-3121 Reference: (860) 583-4467 Library Hours Monday - Wednesday: 10am - 8pm, Thursdays: 10am - 6pm Fridays and Saturdays: 10 am - 5pm. Snow Better Time to Read Children’s Winter Reading Program Continues Complete some or all of the activities listed in your logs (received when you sign up), keep track of the time you spend reading, or do a combination of both. Each week has a new activity log and incentive prize! Stop by the Library to receive a ticket for every four activities you complete and/or for every hour of reading. You can also get an up close and personal look at the prizes you could win. Each ticket is a chance to win one of the prizes. Programs offered during this time include: February 7, 1:00 p.m. - Book Exchange (bring a book, take a book) February 13, 2:00 p.m. - Hot Cocoa and Board Game Family Event! February 14, 1:00 p.m - Pizza Party! Understanding Your Best Friend! With Phil Klein, Certified Dog Listener Saturday, February 7th (Postponed from Jan. 24) 2:00p.m. - 4:00p.m Are you at your wits end with your dog, or just have some challenges? Or, are you about to get a dog and want to avoid problems? If so, you can eliminate or minimize all unwanted behaviors by simply making canine-friendly changes in how to interact with your dog. This simple methodology will enable you to achieve a blissful relationship with your dog and every dog you have in your life. Corset Confidential: Romance and the Victorian Underworld Monday, February 9—6:30 pm Living history playwright, performer and author Jennifer Emerson presents Victorian Romance, and often the lack thereof! The respectable, genteel elegance of the Languages of the Fan and Flowers, letter writing and rituals of courtship will give way to opening the bedroom doors as she reveals the naughtier side: the world’s oldest profession. Artist of the Month James Trudel – Painting Upstairs Display Case James Trudel – Mini Paintings Downstairs Display case Winter Reading Prizes Book Display Laundry is the only thing that should be separated by color. Celebrate Black History Month! Library Board of Directors Meeting Wednesday, February 18, 6:30 p.m. - The Board of Directors meet the third Wednesday of each month. Friends of the Terryville Library Monday, February 9—6:30 pm The Friends of the Terryville Public Library is a voluntary, non-profit group of interested citizens whose purpose is to enhance the value of the library Knitalong Night Every Wednesday—6:30-8:00 PM Bring along a project in progress, projects to share or questions to ask. Newbie knitters welcome. This is not meant to be an instructional class but there will be people there willing to help. For more information, please call Lisa Courtney at (860) 583-4467. Fiction Lovers Book Discussion Monday, February 23—6:30 p.m. ‘South of Broad’ by Pat Conroy Leopold Bloom King has been raised in a family shattered— and shadowed—by tragedy. Lonely and adrift, he searches for something to sustain him and finds it among a tightly knit group of high school outsiders. Surviving marriages happy and troubled, unrequited loves and unspoken longings, hard-won successes and devastating breakdowns, as well as Charleston, South Carolina’s dark legacy of racism and class divisions, these friends will endure until a final test forces them to face something none of them are prepared for. Spanning two turbulent decades, South of Broad is Pat Conroy at his finest: a masterpiece from a great American writer whose passion for life and language knows no bounds. New Materials at Your Library Adult Fiction Perfect Sins – Jo Bannister Blood Rubies – Jane K. Cleland Moriarty – Anthony Horowitz Dead But Not Forgotten – Rachel Caine The Boston Girl – Anita Diamant Scorched Eggs – Laura Childs Another Night, Another Day – Sarah Rayner A String of Beads – Thomas Perry Insatiable Appetites – Stuart Woods Robert B. Parker’s The Bridge – Robert Knott Rain on the Dead – Jack Higgins Dress Shop of Dreams – Menna Van Praac Rosie Effect – Graeme Simsion The Assassination Option – W.E. B. Griffin The Bishop’s Wife – Mette Ivie Harrison Die Again – Tess Gerritsen Viking Bay – M.A. Lawson Hush – Karen Robards Sunshine on Scotland Street – Alexander McCall Smith Let Sleeping Dogs Lie – Rita Mae Brown Dangerous Alliance – Kyra Davis The Magician’s Lie – Greer Macallister No Fortunate Son – Brad Taylor White Plague – James Abel Trust No One – Jayne Ann Krentz Agenda 21: into the shadows – Glenn Beck The Martini Shot – George Pelecanos The Empty Throne – Bernard Cornwell Golden Son – Pierce Brown A Sister of Honor – Lucy Ferriss The Body Snatchers Affair – Marcia Muller Before I Go – Colleen Oakley Biographies Victoria: a life – A.N. Wilson The Churchill Factor – Boris Johnson Francis: life and revolution – Elisabetta Pique Watch Me: a memoir – Anjelica Huston The Man Who Would Be Washington –Jonathan Horn Colonel House: biography of Woodrow Wilson’s silent partner – Charles E. Neu You Can’t Make This Up – Al Michaels Adult Non-Fiction The Make-Ahead Cook Art Inc. – Lisa Congdon For Love of Country – Howard Schultz How the Body Knows Its Mind – Sian Beilock Ten Best Anxiety Busters – Dr. Margaret Wehrenberg The Happy Sleeper – Heather Turgeon Broken Open: how difficult times can help us grow – Elizabeth Lesser Defending Beef – Nicolette Hahn Niman The Dogs are Eating Them Now: our war in Afghanistan Graeme Smith A Random Walk Down Wall Street – Burton G. Malkiel Work Simply – Carson Tate Putin’s Kleptocracy: who owns Russia? – Karen Dawisha God’ll Cut You Down – John Safran Money: master the game – Tony Robbins 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do – Amy Morin Yell Less Love More – Sheila McCraith Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness – Donna Smallin 101 Two-Letter Words – Stephin Merritt Resilience: two sisters and a story of mental illness – Jessie Close The Nuns of Sant’ Ambrogio – Hubert Wolf Cause of All Nations – Don H. Doyle The Fierce Urgency of Now – Julian E. Zelizer The Secret History of Wonder Woman – Jill Lepore Lives in Ruins – Marilyn Johnson Trees of Eastern North America – Gil Nelson Unnatural Selection – Emily Monosson Passionate Nutrition – Jennifer Adler, MS, CN Teen Let it Snow – John Green Winter Falls – Nicole Maggi Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel – Sara Farizan Redeemed – P.C. Cast Dark Triumph – Robin LaFevers Mortal Heart – Robin LaFevers Even in Paradise – Chelsey Philpot Pioneer Girl: the annotated autobiography – Laura Ingalls Wilder Page 24 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Ascend – Amanda Hocking Frostfire – Amanda Hocking How it Went Down – Kekla Magoon HOOPLA We’re excited to announce a unique digital entertainment/ media service, hoopla, enabling you to borrow movies, videos, music and audiobooks straight from your browser, tablet, or smartphone! Terryville Public Library has never offered a service quite like hoopla, but we think this could be the beginning of a beautiful, new, digitally-driven friendship between us!! Patrons can download the free hoopla digital mobile app on the Android or IOS device or visit hoopladigital.com to begin enjoying thousands of titles - from major Hollywood studios, record companies and publishers - available to borrow for instant streaming or temporary downloading to their smartphones, tablets and computers. Each patron is limited to 5 downloads per month. Children’s Programming Book Exchange Saturday, February 7—1:00pm Bring a book, take a book! Bring in your gently used book and trade it for a new one. All ages. Registration required Hot Cocoa and Board Games Family Event Friday, February 13—2:00pm Come in out of the cold for some hot cocoa, cookies and board games! You bring your family and friends we supply the cocoa, cookies and games! Ages 4 and up. Registration required. The Winter session will end the week of February 9th. The Spring 1 session will begin March 2nd and end April 6th. Registration will continue until all spaces are filled. Come join us for stories, music and more! New Program * Saturday Storytime Saturday, February 7—10:30-11:15am This will be a monthly storytime for ages birth-3. The program will include stories, finger plays, movement, music and playtime. Registration required. Storytimes Mother Goose – prewalkers up to 15mo—Mondays, 10:3011:15—Stories, nursery rhymes, music and playtime Night Owls - 3-5 yr. olds—Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30pm—Stories, finger plays, music, movement and craft Busy Bees - 2-3 yr. olds—Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15am—Stories, finger plays, music, movement and craft Toddlertime -Walkers 9 to 24 mo. old—Thursdays, 10:3011:15am—Stories, nursery rhymes, music, movement and playtime Wild Wednesdays Wednesday, February 4—4:15-5:00pm Lego Block Party: Come build towering buildings, unique ships, cars and airplanes! We provide the LEGO Blocks, you put them together! Ages 4 and up. Wednesday, February 11—4:15-5:00pm Who’s your valentine? Make him or her a lollipop flower out of an egg carton and cupcake wrappers (or keep it for yourself)! Ages 7-12. Registration Required. Wednesday, February 18—4:15-5:00pm Slime: create your own colored slime to take home with you! Ages 6-12. Registration required Wednesday, February 25—4:15-5:00pm Let’s make our own bookmarks out of pages of old books, markers, and duct tape! Ages 7-12. Registration required Saturday Movie Matinees Saturday, February 21—2:00pm Saturday Movie Matinee: Winnie the Pooh (G;63min) Popcorn will be provided– bring a blanket to sit on and a friend to share the fun! Saturday, February 28—2:00pm Saturday Movie Matinee: Snow Buddies (G; 89 min) Popcorn will be provided– bring a blanket to sit on and a friend to share the fun! pREsCHOOL fAIR Wednesday, February 11—6:00-7:30pm Drop by Plymouth Center School to get information on preschools, kindergarten readiness, pediatric health, and more! Representatives from local preschools and businesses will be present to share their information and resources. Fun and educational literacy activities will also be provided throughout the fair for the children’s enjoyment. Admission is FREE, continued on the next page continued from the previous page although we ask that you consider bringing a nonperishable food item which will be donated to the Plymouth Community Food Pantry. Please call (860) 283-6167 or email plymouthfrc@educationconnection.org with any questions. Simply Science Friday, February 20—10:30am Fun hands-on activities that explore S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) topics! This month’s topic is the four seasons. Ages 3-6. Registration required. Series Starters Jr. Saturday February 21—10:30-11:15am Our February book will be Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye by Geronimo Stilton (part of the Geronimo Stilton series). See a librarian to get a copy for yourself to read before the meeting. Snack and activities will be included. Ages 6-8. Registration required. R.E.A.D Story Tails Saturday, February 28—11:00-12:30pm Sign up for a 15-minute timeslot to practice your literacy skills by reading to a specially trained dog. Registration required. Reminder: Wednesday February 11, 2015 is the last day to bring in your Winter Reading Program logs for raffle tickets! The Finale Pizza Party will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at 1:00pm. Chase Away the Chills Thanks to the talent, artistry, and generosity of local patrons, the Friends of the Library is holding it’s second annual “ Chase Away the Chills” drawing. Donors have made and donated some beautiful crocheted or knitted items, including blankets, knitted pillows and other items to snap the cold spells we have experienced this winter. Items will be on display in the library from February 1 to February 20. They will then be moved to the Booktique for the drawing during the book sale on February 21. Pictured is our first donation by Sue Losacano. It is a gorgeous crocheted blanket, featuring deep red colored flowers, a white lace-like border and a deliciously warm green fleece-like lining. This blanket could be yours with the simple purchase of a ticket at the library! Tickets will be available starting on February 1. Chase Away the Chills with Cookies On a cold, snowy day, there is nothing as soothing and warm as a good book, hot beverage, comfort food, and goodies. The Friends of the Library can help with the books, beverages, and goodies! There will be a cookie sale on February 21, 10 A.M.-2 P.M. at the Booktique’s monthly book sale and drawing for the lovely warm blankets and other knitted or crocheted items. Stop in, but a ticket and some wonderful cookies. The you can have a cup of hot chocolate, tea, or coffee to warm up and “Chase Away the Chills.” You deserve a winter break! Library News Plymouth Library Association Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 11:00am-4:00pm, Wednesday Nights: 6:00-8:00pm, Saturday: 10:00am-2:00pm 692 Main Street, Plymouth, CT 06782 860-283-5977 • plymouth.library.ct@gmail.com Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/plymouth.library.ct The Plymouth Library Association, founded in 1871 as a stock company, merged into an association in 1886, and operating out of its current building since 1932, balances historical charm with contemporary functionality. The library offers internet access, copying, and printing. For daily updates on new arrivals and upcoming events, feel free to “like” us at facebook.com/plymouth.library.ct New Adult Fiction: The Silent Man – Alex Berenson Blood and Fire – Nick Brownlee The Burning Room – Michael Connelly The October Killings – Wessel Ebersohn Immobility – Brian Evenson Red Gold – Alan Furst A Man Without Breath – Philip Kerr Deadline – John Sandford The Way We Were – Marcia Willett New Adult Non-Fiction: Yes Please – Amy Poehler Paddle Your Own Canoe – Nick Offerman Tree Spiker – Mike Roselle with John Mahan New Graphic Fiction: Saga Volume 4 – Brian Vaughan and Fiona Staples New Science Fiction: The World of Ice and Fire – George R. R. Martin Magazines: American Patchwork and Quilting • American Hunter • Better Homes and Gardens • Consumer Reports • Martha Stewart Living Don’t forget to visit our ongoing book sale! Hardcovers - $1.00 Paperbacks - $0.50 Magazines - $0.50 Video Cassettes - $0.25 Thank You The Booktique enjoyed a very successful semi-annual Bag Sale. While the weather was very cold outside, sales were very hot inside. Patrons paid $5.00 to fill a grocery bag with all kinds of books of their choosing. The Booktique was very well stocked and prepared for the sale by volunteers who shelved hundreds and hundreds of donations before and during the Saturday sale. Patrons seemed very happy with the variety of choices and titles among the fiction, non-fiction and children’s books. The Friends’ Booktique volunteers thank the many known and anonymous donors who have allowed the Friends to have a ready supply of great titles and quality books. The Friends fully understand that the Booktique’s success is the result of the unselfish donations of books by our loyal and generous donors. The Friends remain truly grateful and deeply indebted to our wonderful donors and patrons! Some happy people at the semi- annual Bag Sale at the Booktique in January. Booktique Sale Helena Schwalm and her sister Cathy Mackiewicz take a break from their book searches with hot coffee at the Booktique sale. They had also donated and delivered a treasure-trove of cook books! Another patron, Barbara Lyga spent a little time reviewing the “trades” before making her selections. She certainly had many choices since the Booktique was loaded with hundreds of new selections. Booktique patron Bill Crockett enjoyed a little sunshine and a good book while he selected other books to fill the bag at his feet. Author Clive Cussler seemed to be his favorite! Library Friends Cathy Paskus and Valerie Rouleau take a picture break from their labors of. sorting and Shelving hundreds of donated books at the Booktique during the very successful semi-annual Bag Sale in January. Sue Losacano and her daughter stopped in to drop off Sue’s latest work of art, a hand-made blanket. Sue was donating it to the Friends “Chase Away the Chills” February drawing. Both Sue and her daughter also did some serious shopping at the Bag Sale! Happy reading, Ladies! The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 • Page 25 School News Adams IGA Helping Terryville High School Students Stay Healthy In 2012 Education Connection, on behalf of Plymouth Public Schools, was awarded the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) grant. The PEP grant is a federal grant and is a one million dollar grant to be implemented over a three year period. The purpose of the PEP grant was to overhaul Plymouth’s K-12 Physical and Health education programs. As one of the many purchases made by the PEP grant, a fitness center was installed in Terryville High School in August of 2013. During the 2013-2014 school year, a fitness center coordinator was hired through this grant funding. Dean Martin, Terryville High School’s Fitness Center Coordinator recognized a way to expand the grant’s message of healthy eating and reached out to Ed Gavalis, Manager at IGA in Terryville. A relationship was struck and Ed Gavalis contacted IGA’s executive offices. Without hesitation, the corporate office agreed to supply our students with Apples for the remainder of the school year. The students look forward to the Apples every day. The students created a huge poster with all their signatures thanking Adams IGA for their commitment to the health of the students at Terryville High School. As a new school year approached, Mr. Martin and Mr. Gavalis vowed to continue the program as long as they could. Through the CT Association of Health Physical Education Recreation and Dance (CTAHPERD) mini grant program, additional funds were secured to continue supplying fruit to the students at the beginning of the school year. Lisa Daly, from Ed Connection was able to get a check for $500.00 to give to Adams IGA for their continued support. Dean Martin is called the Apple Man at Terryville High and he said,” if we are a day without apples, the kids are disappointed”. For some students, it replaces a regular breakfast. Terryville High School and Plymouth Public Schools is very grateful to Adams IGA. We greatly appreciate Adams IGA’s recognition of the student’s nutritional needs and their willingness to support our efforts to guide students to be their healthiest. January 2015 Update from the Board of Education Chair I hope everyone had a grand holiday season and a great New Year. As you will see, we have hit the road running with a very active schedule this January. Let’s start with an update on the big question on everyone’s mind, “What is the status of our superintendent search”? The following reflects the Executive Search Committee’s activities with expected actions and progress. • The Leadership Profile, prepared by the Cooperative Education Services (C.E.S.) Search Consultants and based on responses provided in focus groups and from the online survey, was placed on the district website. (Note: This still can be accessed, if you have not yet read it). • The C.E.S. Search Consultants presented the Leadership Profile to the Board of Education at its December 16 meeting. • Applications for the position closed last week. • The Executive Search Committee, with the assistance of the search consultants crafted questions for both first and second round interviews. The Leadership Profile was referenced in crafting questions. • Applications of candidates were reviewed. • Candidates were selected for first round interviews. • First round interviews are in process. • Second round interviews will be held next week. • A site visit to the district of the final candidate is tentatively scheduled for Friday, January 30. • The election of a new Superintendent of the Plymouth Public Schools is tentatively scheduled on Monday, February 2 at a Special Board of Education meeting. The next big topic is the budget process. As of our Board meeting on January 14, we learned of some misinformation out in the community concerning the budget. I want to make sure you have the correct information: The 2015-2016 budget is being compiled by district administration as I write this update. Research is being done and number are being crunched. The 2015-2016 budget has not yet been presented to the Finance Subcommittee of the Board or the Board of Education itself. Information about the budget will be shared with the Finance Committee of the Board at Budget Workshops which are scheduled at 6 PM in the Board of Education Conference room on the following dates: • January 21 • January 28 • February 4 In other news, the solar installation at our schools is in full swing. The engineers have been actively checking the roof structure, fine tuning designs and pulling permits. The town should start seeing the savings by mid to late summer. Along with a facilities update, we also expect to complete the modification to the entrance of Harry S Fisher grammar school. Other items of note: • Staff is working very hard on rewriting curriculum in grades 6-8 and with more to come in K-5. • We ask that you partake in the common core survey that you can access on our website. • The board policies are in need of being updated to conform to present practice and law. We are looking into utilizing the CT Association of Boards of Education policy service to assist us in this major process. The Board would like to thank Marna Murtha, our Interim Director of Pupil Personnel and Special Education Services for her assistance during our vacancy. We would also like to welcome Cyndi Deshais as our new Interim Director of Pupil Personnel and Special Education Services. This position will be posted and a person hired once a new superintendent has been elected. Many more changes are on the way. I want to thank you all; particularly our faculty, staff and administrators. We look forward to a wonderful 2015. I thank all of you for your patience with the Board as a result of all that has happened over the past months. We are moving forward positively! Have a great January, Raymond Engle Chair Plymouth Board of Education. School Lunch The Terryville High School MusicThe Students inviteMenu you was to: unavailable at the time of printing. FLATBREAD FLATBREAD The Terryville High School Music Students invite you to: AT THE SHOPPES AT FARMINGTON VALLEY, CANTON CT AT THE SHOPPES AT FARMINGTON VALLEY, CANTON CT LISTEN TO THE IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES BY THE TH TTERRYVILLE U E S D A YHIGH – F E B 1 0BAND 5AND P MCHOIR -9PM SCHOOL STUDENTS AS YOU ENJOY A GREAT PIZZA!!! TUESDAY – FEB 10TH 5PM-9PM Flatbread will make a donation for all flatbread purchases made between 5pm and LISTEN THEway IMPRESSIVE BYPlease THE 9pm. It is TO the perfect for customers to PERFORMANCES support music in our schools. TERRYVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BAND AND CHOIR come out to enjoy this special evening of LIVE MUSIC and GREAT PIZZA!!! STUDENTS AS YOU ENJOY A GREAT PIZZA!!! _______________________________________ Page 26 • The Plymouth Connection • February, 2015 Flatbread will make a donation for all flatbread purchases Letters to the Editor The following letters are not the opinions of the Plymouth Connection and are unrelated to any personal views of the Plymouth Connection staff. So for the first time in my life I attended a Town Council meeting in Plymouth. Let me start by saying my dad was born and raised in Terryville. He built two homes here and I was born and raised in Terryville. I now own one of those homes. My dad and his brothers would go to town meetings and then argue for hours about the contents of those meetings. I myself have never gotten involved. I do vote in every election though. I was embarrassed at the meeting held on January 6th. I have always been proud to say I was from Terryville. After seeing this display I don’t know if I will be admitting openly in the future. We had an interm tax collector who was doing his job. The Mayor tried to say it wasn’t the man but the change in policies put in place before his appointment that got the job done. But doesn’t the man have to carry those policies out? Otherwise any monkey could do the job no? And in the height of tax season you replace him? And because the Republican Committee wants a fellow republican in the position for next election? Didn’t Ted Smith change his affiliation for the position? And if the tax collector is doing his job what difference does it make what his party affiliations are? Isn’t the fact that he is doing his job enough? Second how do you fire someone on Monday and then vote on it on Tuesday? Does that mean they already knew what way the vote would go before the meeting? And obviously some of the council members were uncomfortable with the way things were done. It was a sad day for Plymouth. One person complained that the interim tax collector was a bully. Seriously? I never knew paying your taxes was an option. My husband and I save for our taxes FIRST out of every paycheck. Then, oil, then utilities, then insurance, then cable. The last four I can adjust if I don’t have enough money. I can turn my heat down, shut off some lights, shop for insurance or lose some channels. But I never thought in a million years of not paying my taxes in full on time. I guess I have been a fool all these years and so were my parents. Sad, sad day for Plymouth. This was a personal choice made by petty persons. Sad to see our local government can’t rise above this kind of politics. I will continue to vote in this town but won’t be voting for this Mayor or most of the council next election. Susan Huff, Terryville Dear Editor, For those concerned citizens who did not attend the January 6th Town Council meeting, let me say it was refreshing to have seen a larger-than-usual turnout on a cold, winter’s night. In an attempt to return the proceedings back to some semblance of “regular order” the Mayor proposed and the Council approved a 3 minute time limit on public comments, applicable to all agenda and non-agenda items. For those of us who tend to be long-winded (myself included) this means any resident or taxpayer who wishes to comment on the record should be precise with their thoughts and opinions, and get to the point rather than rambling on incoherently. The old English word for this condition is called being “pithy”. If an individual or group wishes to make a presentation to the Council, they should contact the Mayor’s office in the weeks before the meeting to have it listed as a separate agenda item. I did speak under “public comment” in support of the 50% tax abatement resolution for Inland Fuel Terminals, a new company that purchased the foreclosed Structus property on South Main St. The Town Council was notified the total taxable investment by Inland Fuels would be approximately $5 million. So, even if the net assessed value was $2 million at 34 mils, it would generate over $60,000 per year in taxes after factoring in the abatement. As Mayor Merchant pointed out, since the town foreclosed on the property for back taxes in 2013, it has produced no revenue, nada, -zilch! Right now the site is a vacant and ugly eyesore, so it’s advantageous to sell it to an industrial operator willing to invest their capital. Also, since Inland Fuels has indicated they are willing to hire local employees, reasonable people would conclude this is a win-win proposition for all parties. In the matter of the interim tax collector, Mr. Robert Ives, chairman of the Republican Town Committee submitted the nomination of Joseph Kilduff as their party’s choice for Tax Collector to replace Ted Smith. This decision was seen by many as controversial. However, since the resignation of Anna Legassey, our previously-elected Tax Collector, it is clearly within the legal purview of the RTC to select whom they want to serve out the remainder of the term until the next election. Despite some hard feelings expressed by Mr. Smith’s supporters, Mr. Ives thanked Smith for stepping up and helping out during the interim, but did not offer any specifics as to the reasons behind this decision. Regardless of the circumstances, in the end, it will be the final responsibility of the voters to decide whom to elect or not to that office. Ralph S. Zovich, Terryville I would personally like to thank all the good citizens who took the time to sign the statement, “Pride and Progress for Plymouth”. This is my way of stopping some of the negativity that has been going on in town and printed in some of the newspapers, and that so-called facebook page for far too long. We can not stand by and let a hand full of people keep attacking our town and the good, hard working men and womenwho are working so hard to make our town a better place to live. This also stands for people who are no longer involved with the town, but still care (let’s not forget them). We have to keep standing up for what is right. By the way, speaking of facebook pages, what is the name of it? I don’t follow it, I just hear comments from others who do. Maybe I have the wrong name, is it CitizensAgainstVirtuallyEverythingForTheGoodOfPlymouth? See, I was hoping they would have mentioned the statement on this page so that we could have gotten more signatures. Wonder why they wouldn’t help me?. Also, I would like to give a big Thank-You to four people who helped me make this statement a reality: Briana, Tony, Pat and Arlene. I could not have made this possible without their help. Once again, many thanks to all of you, lets keep our town moving forward in 2015 and for years to come. I would like to wish out next Tax Comptroller and Tax Collector to stand tall, stay strong and good luck. Let’s not let negativity stand in our way. We are not taking any more signatures. Pride and Progress fro Plymouth! Sincerely, Linda Kazlierski, Terryville Gone, but Not Forgotten My name is Roxane and I am the wife of the former Interim Tax Collector of Plymouth, Ted Smith. I am not a political or outspoken person. However, I could not let what has been happening in our town hall over the past several months go without being heard. I voted for Mayor Dave Merchant and several other Republican Town Council members even though I am a registered Democrat. I believed that they had the best interest of the town in their campaign commitments. I was wrong! On Tuesday, January 6th, the interim Tax Collector position was on the Town Council’s agenda. I went to speak on Ted’s behalf. Ted and the tax office personnel worked cohesively, collecting more taxes than any other previous office. Ted’s performance was praised by Mayor Merchant during previous council meetings. Mayor Merchant proposed a pay raise after Ted had only been on the job for a few months. Why was his position in jeopardy? In my opinion, Ted was not a “Yes” man for Mayor Merchant. He uncovered inconsistencies in financial reports bringing them to the attention of the external auditors, suggesting that a forensic audit be done. Ted was outspoken about project funding that never received the appropriate approvals. Ted sent the Mayor a car tax bill, as was his job. Ted refused Mayor Merchant’s “cease and desist” letter demanding he stop taxing these leased properties. Ted told the Mayor as long as the Town Assessor assesses a tax, he was obligated to send out a bill. Mayor Merchant confiscated small appliances from the tax office – even though they had been there for years. How childish! Mayor Merchant stopped talking to Ted. Communications were done via letter or email. Ted tried going to the Mayor’s office to talk. He was turned away. He tried emailing the Mayor asking him to work together. No reply. There were several articles in local newspapers talking about the tension between Ted and the Mayor. Ted was accused of being “rude” to individuals coming in to pay their delinquent taxes. Since when did paying taxes become an option? Were these people mad because Ted was doing his job? Ted was told he was being “relieved” of his duties on Monday, January 5th. Mayor Merchant told him that Tuesday, January 6th would be his last day on the job; on Wednesday, January 7th a new Tax Collector would be sitting in his seat and by Thursday, January 8th, Ted would “all but be forgotten”. Ted was given no reason for his dismissal. He is considering taking legal action. Ted has an accounting degree, over 25 year’s experience working in corporate accounting, finance and expense management. He passed the CPA exam. Mr. Kilduff has a degree in criminal justice and worked a few years at ESPN. Who is better qualified for the job? The past several months have taken a tremendous toll on Ted and our family. Ted has had to fight to keep his good name out of the papers and keep the tax office rolling while all this was going on. Ted was proud of what he and the tax office were accomplishing. Good people of Plymouth, you need to open your eyes and your ears. Start going to the Town Council meetings; listen to what is going on. It will be a rude awakening. 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