October 22, 2015

Transcription

October 22, 2015

PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
PALMER, MA
PERMIT #22
Prep for the New SAT or ACT
PRESS
860-651-7376
Valley
Simsbury.HuntingtonHelps.com
2015
Voters’ Guide
Inside
AVON • BURLINGTON • CANTON • FARMINGTON • GRANBY • SIMSBURY
Vol. 7, Edition 43
Thursday
October 22, 2015
in the press
Community
mourns passing
of teacher
He called them his kids. That’s what
Grant Sheely, the longtime physical education teacher at Noah
Wallace School, used to refer to
his students. His kids, their parents,
and myriad others – products of
36 years of teaching in Farmington
at Noah Wallace School and East
Farms School – mourned Sheely’s
unexpected passing Sunday, Oct.
11. He was 65. PAGE 13
Chamber preps
for cook-off
The Simsbury Chamber of Commerce is taking Halloween celebrations to the next level. PAGE 13
Rising to the challenge
Photo by Ted Glanzer
Twenty Farmington faculty members took on the Harlem Wizards, the “world-famous” basketball team comprising entertaining and talented players,
at Farmington High School Oct. 17. Above, a student gets a lift to the basket from one of the Wizards players. See more on page 6.
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Wild about animals
NEWS
THIS WEEK
A&E
3
The Buzz
9
Editorial
11
Town News
13
Business
20
Calendar 21
Sports
23
Classifieds
28
Quotes
of Note
“It is lovely and would
be a lovely opportunity
for someone who wants
to, say, use those boards
to build a structure, [or]
someone who wanted to
use an old barn rather
than build a new one.”
-Elaine Lang in “Historical society
no longer intends to preserve...”
on page 13
Courtesy photo
13
Avon reader Paul Regeness has spotted foxes, deer and squirrels in his backyard this fall. If you have a
photo of a critter that you’ve spotted locally, submit it for this segment to Abigail at aalbair@turleyct.
com. Include “Wild About Animals” and the animal spotted in the subject line, as well as your town of
residence. All submissions will be considered for inclusion in a future edition.
“One thing I hear about is
traffic every meeting. ... We
say we are concerned, but
we continue as a
community to do nothing
about it. … We said it’s
our biggest concern, but
whenever we try to solve
it, we run away from that.
I wonder why that is. I
wonder what the next
traffic study townwide
will do, if a solution will be
accepted.”
-Ted Lindquist in “UVIA, Chamber,
EDC encorse...” on page 17
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2
The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
PRESSARTS&ENTERTAINMENT
Maxwell Shepherd Memorial Arts Fund concert
For its first concert of
the 2015-16 season of the
Shepherd Music Series at
Collinsville Congregational
Church, 7 South St., Collinsville, the Maxwell Shepherd
Memorial Arts Fund will
present Christa Rakich in an
“informance,” a combined
talk and performance on
the historic Flentrop organ
Sunday, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. Her
program will include works
by Nicolas Bruhns, Johann
Sebastian Bach, Christa Rakich, James Woodman and
Anna Amalia, Princess of
Prussia.
The event is free and
will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Flentrop organ. The renowned organist
and harpsichordist Rakich
is currently director of the
musical program at St. Mark
the Evangelist Church in
West Hartford. She is also
artist-in-residence at First
Congregational Church in
Somers. Dutch organ builder Dirk Flentrop (1910-2003)
was a leader in the restoration of historic organs.
The organ at the Collinsville
Congregational
Church is an example of one
of Flentrop’s smaller gems
having just 18 stops. It was
built in 1965 and dedicated
with an inaugural performance Sept. 12, 1965 by Dr.
George Becker. Tax-deductible donations to the fund
may be made at the concert
or sent to MSMAF Inc., c/o
Collinsville Savings Society,
P.O. Box 197, Collinsville,
06019.
Rani Arbo & Greg Ryan Duo at Roaring Brook Nature Center
Courtesy photo
Becky Sears, Cliff Gibson and Jen Jensen at rehearsal for
Good Company Theater’s “Little Shop of Horrors”
Good Company Theater’s
‘Little Shop of Horrors’
Good Company Theater
of Granby presents the deviously delicious Broadway
smash musical, “Little Shop
of Horrors” Oct. 23, 24, 30 and
31 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 25
and Nov. 1 at 4 p.m. at South
Congregational Church, 242
Salmon Brook St., Granby.
“Little Shop of Horrors” is the
story of a meek floral assistant, Seymour Krelborn, who
stumbles upon a new breed
of plant which he names “Audrey II” after his co-worker
crush. This foul-mouthed,
rhythm and blues singing
carnivore promises him unending fame and fortune as
long as he keeps feeding it.
Tickets are $20 and are available at Granby Pharmacy, online at www.goodcompanytheaterct.org, or at the door.
Rani Arbo & Greg Ryan
Duo will perform at Roaring Brook Nature Center,
70 Gracey Road, Canton,
Saturday, Oct. 24 at 7:30
p.m. Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door. Call
860-693-0263.
New Englanders like
to think of Arbo as their
own deservedly prominent acoustic music star.
Actually, this Middletown-based fiddler, guitarist, singer-songwriter and
song collector grew up as
a chorister and cellist in
NYC. For 20 years now she
has been pleasing audiences from coast to coast
playing music with the
groups Salamander Crossing and Rani Arbo & daisy
mayhem at folk festivals
and performing arts cen-
ters. Tonight she teams up
with master Vermont-based
guitarist, teacher and performer Ryan to cast a sweet
and spooky spell during this
rare duo performance.
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October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
3
FVSO with Farmington High School Women’s Chorus
The Farmington Valley Symphony Orchestra,
under the baton of Music
Director Jonathan Edward
Brennand, will be joined
by the Farmington High
School Women’s Chorus,
Katie Tewksbury, director, in a concert featuring
“Women in Music,” Sunday,
Oct. 25, 4 p.m., at the Lincoln Theater, University of
Hartford, 200 Bloomfield
Ave., West Hartford. The program will
feature compositions by
three female composers,
Gwyneth Walker, Clemence de Grandval and Amy
Beach. The Farmington
High Women’s Chorus will
appear in contemporary
New England composer
Walker’s setting of Tennyson’s “Crossing the Bar”
and in Randall Thompson’s
“Frostiana,” a setting of
poetry by Robert Frost. In
what may well be the New
England premiere, even the
U.S. premiere, the FVSO will
present the Oboe Concerto
in D Minor by Clemence
de Grandval, who was one
of Europe’s most popular
composers during her time
in late 19th century France.
The soloist will be Aaron
Lakota of Holyoke, Mass.,
who holds degrees in oboe
performance from the University of Massachusetts.
Tickets for the Oct. 25
concert are $18 adults, $15
Aaron Lakota
Courtesy photo
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On Friday, Oct. 23,
7:30 p.m., at Central Connecticut State University
in New Britain and Oct.
25, 7 p.m. at St. Joseph’s
Cathedral in Hartford, an
interesting and unique
program called “Slavic
Masterpieces” will be presented by the Connecticut
Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra offering music by Antonin Dvorak, Tchaikovsky
and Polish composer
Mieczyslaw
Karlowicz.
Hightlight of the event
will be Dvorak’s Cello
Concerto in B minor, Op.
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104 featuring cello soloist
Melissa Morgan who, as
she put it, “was born here
(in Avon), went away and
came back.” That “going
away” consisted of earning her bachelor of music
from Eastman School of
Music, a Master of Music
from the San Francisco
Conservatory and numerous performances all over
the country before joining
the Virtuosi Orchestra in
the 2006-07 season. The
43-year-old artist plays
may roles in life – cellist,
teacher, mother, wife.
SCTV Film Festival
SCTV will hold its
first ever film festival. The
gala event is free to the
public and will be held
Friday, Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. in
the Simsbury High School
amphitheater, 34 Farms
Village Road. The festival
will showcase several short
movies –often and undeservedly an overlooked
art form – made by SCTV
volunteers both past and
present. Included in the
lineup is a black comedy by
Jacob Bittens called “Go to
Hell.” Filmed in Simsbury,
it tells the story of a young
man named David who
winds up in Hell because
he is too boring. Another
entry by Nadia Gilbert is
called “Fracas,” which she
made in the city of Prague
in the Czech Republic. Also
showing is a dark fantasy
called “Howard’s Keep” by
Wooda McNiven.
Each of these filmmakers will be showing
a second short movie as
well. And, finally, SCTV in
conjunction with Acrofit
will be showing a music
video titled “All About Free
Speech.”
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Valley Press
October 22, 2015
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Lost Acres String Band at Simsbury Public Library
The Lost Acres String
Band, comprised of Connecticut artists Gordon
Swift on violin, Jon Swift on
upright bass and Paul Howard on guitar, will present
a colorful mix of acoustic
string music including traditional and contemporary
fiddle tunes, waltzes, blues,
swing jazz, originals and
more Friday, Oct. 23 from
8-9:30 p.m. at the Simsbury
Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. Gordon Swift, who
holds a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from Wesleyan,
has played in fusion, rock,
folk and country bands.
Melding the technical skill
of a classical player with
the creative power of a seasoned improviser, he blends
musical influences from
around the world into a distinctively American style.
Howard is a member of the
band Last Fair Deal and
runs Valley Music School in
Avon. He is an eclectic guitarist bringing influences
from swing, old-time, blue-
grass and folk/rock music.
Jon Swift is a veteran of
the New England bluegrass
and roots music scene. He
was a founding member of
Traver Hollow and has performed solo and with other
groups. Doors open at 7:30
p.m. Reserve a seat at 860658-7663, ext. 2200, or www.
simsburylibrary.info.
Director’s College event: The Rise of Beatlemania in America
Courtesy photo
Roots Coffeehouse with Bill Benson
Bill Benson will headline the Roots Coffeehouse
Sunday, Oct. 25, at Amistad
Hall, 75 Main St., Farmington. A Roots Worship
Service will be held at 5:30
p.m. Roots Worship is a
type of church service,
which features “roots,” or
early American folk music.
It is informal, and everyone
is welcome to bring an instrument and join in. One
can also dance in the hall,
shake your tambourine,
sing along, stomp your feet,
or do whatever moves you.
There will be a folk jam be-
fore the service. Connecticut based singer-songwriter Benson will perform at
6:30 p.m. He performs music as a messenger of love,
hope and passion. He conveys his messages through
inspiring lyrics and heartfelt vocals in the styles of
folk, country and soft rock.
For more information, call
860-677-2601, or email
firstchurchfarmington@
firstchurch1652.org. Email
Benson at bc1645@sbcglobal.net for a set list, or
just come over and check
it out.
On Thursday, Oct. 29,
the Farmington Libraries
will host Beatles scholar
Aaron Krerowicz to discuss the impact of JFK’s
assassination on the initial
success of The Beatles in
the U.S. The event will take
place at 7 p.m. at the Farmington Main Library at 6
Monteith Drive.
February 1964 was the
most important month
of the Beatles’ entire career. It firmly established
Beatlemania in the United
States, highlighted by three
performances on “The Ed
Sullivan Show.”
The program will put
the Beatles’ first U.S. visit
in historical context, with
particular emphasis on
the assassination of John
F. Kennedy and how the
president’s death helped
Beatlemania flourish.
America’s only professional Beatles scholar,
Krerowicz won a research
grant through the University of Hartford in November
2011 to study the band and
has authored three books
on the subject.
The event is free and
open to the public.
Advanced registration
is required for Director’s
College programs. Call 860673-6791 for details or register through the library’s
web site at www.farmingtonlibraries.org.
The Haunted House Diaries shared in Simsbury
Experience a ‘paranormal crossroads’ Thursday,
Oct. 29 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the
Simsbury Library, 725 Hopmeadow St., where entities,
spirits, cryptids and UFOs all
converge in an area that remains active to this day. Deep
in the Litchfield Hills, a 1790
farmhouse sits near the epicenter of a paranormal flap.
Presenter and author William J. Hall brings an investigation into the unknown. His
previous work, “The World’s
Most Haunted House: the
True Story of the Bridgeport
Poltergeist on Lindley Street,”
is a paranormal best seller.
Pre-registration suggested at
860-658-7663.
The Village
Arts Show
The residents of the
Village at McLean, 75 Great
Pond Road, Simsbury, will
hold their first Arts Show,
showcasing an array of creative talents, from Monday, Oct. 26-Friday, Oct. 30.
An exhibit of their creative
work, including painting,
calligraphy, and quilting, will
be on display in the Burkholder Lobby in the Village
at McLean throughout the
week. All are welcome to
stop in and enjoy between
10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Also, meet
the artists and celebrate
their work during an artist
reception Friday, Oct. 30 at
4:30 p.m. RSVPs appreciated
at 860-658-3741. For more
information, call 860-6583741.
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
5
The Wizards dance with a spectator they pulled from the
stands.
Teacher Michele Murtari had her own cheering section.
The game was a family affair for some.
Get your head in the game T
wenty Farmington faculty members took on the Harlem Wizards, the “world-famous”
basketball team comprising entertaining and talented players, at Farmington High
School Oct. 17. While the outcome was predictable – the Wizards routinely ran alley-oops and trick plays against a game faculty squad – the crowd was also highly entertained with the Harlem team’s antics, which included pulling people out from the stands and
dancing. Superintendent of Schools Kathy Greider threw the opening tipoff, while children
who paid an additional donation warmed up with Wizards players before the game. The
event was a fundraiser for the West Woods PTO.
Photos by Ted Glanzer
The faculty team cheers on their colleagues from the bench.
Above, left and right: Students who paid an additional donation had the chance to warm up
with the Wizards; above, center: A faculty member prepares to shoot outside the key.
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The
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October 22, 2015
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Halloween happenings
Hobgoblin Fair
Roaring Brook Nature Center’s
annual Hobgoblin Fair is scheduled for
Saturday, Oct. 31, Halloween Day at the
nature center, 70 Gracey Road, Canton.
The fair features the “track-and-treat”
walk, children’s crafts and a lunch of
homemade soup, bread and apple cider. Suitable for children ages 3-8 and
parents, the cost per child is $5 and $4
for adults. Pre-registration with payment is required. SessionS will be held
from 10 a.m.-noon, and 1-3 p.m. Children are encouraged to wear costumes.
Parents should plan to stay with their
children. Call the center at 860-6930263 for additional information.
Annual Collinsville Halloween Parade set for this weekend
Saturday, Oct. 24 beginning at 6:30
p.m., the main streets in Collinsville will
close to traffic and open to all who are
brave and daring enough to join in the 22nd
annual Collinsville Halloween Parade.
The idea of a Halloween Parade along
the streets of Collinsville was the brainchild
of Jon Squier and a few fellow C-villens in
1994. At 6:30 p.m., as the dusk takes over the
village of Collinsville, all ghosts, ghouls and
goblins and anyone else will meet at the
foot of the balcony at the Canton Historical Museum. Boosolini greets the crowd,
the candy flows and the Halloween magic
takes over.
Each year, the pre-parade antics of
Boosolini on the balcony along with various forms of ghoulish and ghastly entertainment are featured such as an annual
screaming procession.
This year, too, one will witness a cannon shooting off flying ghosts and treats.
At 7 p.m., the parade ritual begins on Main
Street. Haunting pipe organ sounds can
be heard, and all those who are Halloween-donned and those who choose to re-
main un-donned follow the fog and music
down Main Street. While walking the parade path, one will find among the many
horrifying visuals, the “Collinsville Judges”
searching for the scariest, most original
and funniest costumes of the night. After
the parade of fright and fun, ghosts, goblins
and goons congregate again at the balcony for the judging of the costumes, led by
C-ville’s Boosolini.
Downright Music will present The Humeleons with special guests Mark Mercier
and Bob Laramie.
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October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
7
Tying the knot
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
Sarah Pozniak to marry
Christopher Ours
Mr. and Mrs. John
Pozniak of Unionville annouce the engagement
of their daughter, Sarah
Pozniak, M.D., to Christopher Ours, M.D. He is the
son of Kenneth Ours of
Richmond, Va., and Denise
Courtesy photo
Sanders of Charlottesville,
Va.
Sarah and Chris are
currently completeing their
residency program at Wake
Forest Baptist Hospital in
Winston-Salem, N.C. A June
2016 wedding is planned.
YOUR PARENTS’
Cleo Rahmy marries Matthew Tarca
Meaghan O’Brien
and Adam Penrod to wed
Mike and Debbie
O’Brien of Weatogue announce the engagement
of their daughter, Meaghan, to Adam Penrod.
The bride and groom
are both graduates of the
University of Connecticut. A September 2016
wedding is planned.
Live Well Plan
Simsbury native and
2005 SHS graduate Cleo
Rahmy married Matthew
Tarca of Berlin June 28, 2015
at the Mountain Top Inn,
Chittenden, Vt. Cleo and
Matt both received their
under gradute and graduate
degrees from the University
of Conecticut, Storrs, where
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October 22, 2015
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Valley
PRESS
read the paper
or visit us online...
19
SINCE 98
A SSISTED L IVING • M EMORY C ARE
8
they met.
Cleo is a high school
English teacher working
at a startup charter high
school in San Jose, Calif. and
Matt is a senior software engineer at Sunculture, a solar
startup in Mountain View,
Calif., where the couple now
resides.
TO ADVERTISE:
860.651.4700 • www.TurleyCT.com
Daylight Saving Time
serves as safety reminder
Take Action Club members
Courtesy photo
Take Action Club members
win spirit award
My Sisters’ Place awarded the Take Action Club at
Squadron Line School the Allison Chase Spirit Award for
an exceptionally successful
diaper drive in March. The
award is “bestowed upon
young people who give generously of their time and resources in order to make the
world a better place to live.”
Last March, the students collected nearly 12,000
diapers for My Sisters’ Place,
which is a Hartford agency
that provides shelter, services
and support for women and
families. The agency uses over
6,000 diapers per month. The
Take Action Club students
were invited to attend the
award ceremony Sept. 28 at
My Sisters’ Place Pliny Street
campus.
Squadron
Line
sixth-grader Veronica Cum-
miskey said of the event, “It
felt good to be part of something bigger than yourself.”
Squadron Line fifth-grader
Malcolm McPherson added, “It felt good to know that
we helped kids in need.”
Fifth-grader Ava Valerio said,
“Winning this award inspired
me to keep helping and to
keep volunteering in the
future.”
The Take Action Club
is part of Free the Children,
a worldwide organization
that educates and empowers young people to make
transformative social change
to lift people out of poverty.
Squadron Line Elementary
School began its last year and
has about 30 fourth- to sixthgrade students involved. Each
year they commit to completing at least one local and one
global campaign for change.
Simsbury’s Department of Continuing Education presents
NEW YORK EXCURSION TRIPS
y
Holidan
o
s
a
e
S
2015
Daylight Saving Time
ends Sunday, Nov. 1, a
good time to remember to
change and test the batteries in your smoke alarms
and carbon monoxide
detectors. The message is
simple and the habit can
be lifesaving. This is the
28th year of the Change
Your Clock Change Your
Battery® program, sponsored by Energizer and the
International Association
of Fire Chiefs.
The Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company wants
to remind residents that
one simple step can help
save lives and the lives of
those around you. Everyone is encouraged to use
the extra hour “gained”
from Daylight Saving Time
to change the batteries
in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors,
test alarms and remind
friends, family, neighbors
and fellow community
members to do the same.
According to the
National Fire Protection
Agency, 71 percent of
smoke alarms that failed
to operate had missing,
disconnected or dead batteries. Changing smoke
alarm batteries at least
once a year, testing those
alarms and reminding
others to do the same
are some of the simplest,
most effective ways to reduce these tragic deaths
and injuries.
The peak time for
home fire fatalities is between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
when most families are
sleeping. Home fires injure and kill thousands
each year. Twenty-eight
years ago, Energizer and
the International Association of Fire Chiefs recognized a trend that many
home fire fatalities took
place in homes without
working smoke alarms.
A working smoke detector doubles the chance
of surviving a home fire.
Registration forms are available in our online catalog
at www.simsbury.k12.ct.us/dce.
Call DCE at (860) 658-3870 for more information.
sale to benefit the cause.
Wear Pink and come
experience both a wonderful
community event and a great
soccer game. An important
part of the event is when
breast cancer survivors are
escorted onto the field by the
team. Survivors are still being sought to accompany the
players on this walk.
Contact Lynda Cohn at
LYNDACOH20@gmail.com
or 860-944-2009 with questions or for more information.
Dedicated to Independent Living
accepting applications for our
1 & 2 bedroom waiting list
Applicants must be 62 years of age or older, handicapped
or disabled in order to apply. Income Limits restricted.
Contact Federation Homes at
860-243-2535 for an application
156 Wintonbury Avenue, Bloomfield, CT
Fall Auto Loan Sale
OCTOBER 16 – NOVEMBER 7
NEW, USED & REFINANCED
ANY MODEL YEAR
R AT E S A S L OW A S
%
1.79
Cost: $45.00 (round trip) + $3
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Dates: Wed., Nov. 11 & Dec. 9
Bus stops in the city:
• Half Price Tickets 7th & 47th
• Rockefeller Center 5th & 50th
• Macy’s 34th & Broadway
• South Street Seaport Lower
East River
• Plaza Hotel 5th & 59th
• Metropolitan Museum
Come out in support of
breast cancer awareness with
the Farmington High School
girls varsity soccer team as
they face Northwest Catholic
Monday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at
Tunxis Mead Park. Admission
proceeds and funds raised
will be donated to the “Just
B” Cancer Free Foundation of
Farmington.
Enjoy pink cotton candy
and other treats. Admission
is $5 ($3 children/students).
Merchandise will also be for
FEDERATION HOMES
Simsbury’s Department of
Continuing Education offers
trips to NYC! Take a motor
coach trip to Manhattan for a
day to shop, see a Broadway
performance, meet a friend,
have a special meal, etc.!
Departs: 7:30AM, Iron Horse Blvd.,
Simsbury and 7:50AM Route 4,
Tunxis Plantation (commuter lot) in
Farmington. Pickup location to
return to CT: 6th Ave. & 53rd St.
(across from Hilton Hotel) at 5:45PM.
Arrives in Simsbury approx. 8:30PM.
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October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
9
Community invited to get spooked, for a good cause
By Alicia B. Smith
Staff Writer
SIMSBURY — The community hall at the Freemasons building in Simsbury
is typically a sunny, cheery
space where not only the
Masons hold events, but the
community rents the space
for its happenings as well.
John Rossignol is planning to
use the space and, when he’s
done with it, the room will
have a vastly different, ghoulish mood.
John is intending to
transform the public space
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10
The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
from a standard meeting hall
to one of ghouls, gore and
other spooky fun when he
and his family recreate their
annual haunted house at a
new venue.
For several years, the
Rossignol family of Simsbury
has transformed its home
into a haunted house, frightening friends and neighbors
in the process. The only
thing asked in return for the
spine-tingling fun is a donation of a non-perishable food
item for Gifts of Love.
The inspiration behind
the haunting stemmed from
John’s daughter Adele’s concern about poverty and what,
if anything, she could do to
help alleviate the problem.
The family had experience
creating a haunted house at a
camp they used to enjoy, and
they decided to use their creative skills for good.
“We used to go to a
campground when we were
younger. My family are big
campers. They always held a
huge haunted house for charity,” Adele Rossingol said.
Adele explained that her
family has an abundance of
Halloween decorations, so
she suggested to her dad why
not use the decorations in a
haunted house of their own?
“It’s a lot of fun. I love to
do it with my father,” she said.
“I love giving the stuff to the
charity because it’s some-
Courtesy photo
The haunted house is done all for a good cause, as admission
is a non-perishable food item for donation to Gifts of Love.
thing we love that can be
turned into something that
can help others.”
This year, the Valley
Assembly Rainbow Girls, a
scoutlike group that does
community service projects,
along with the Freemasons,
are sponsoring the event.
Adele and several of her
friends will be dressing up as
cracked porcelain dolls that
live in an enchanted forest.
It was a theme she and her
friends did last year, which
was quite popular, and they
are reprising their roles.
“We are not the only
ones who look forward to it.
We even have family come
down from Maine to work at
it,” Adele said.
“People come by and donate canned, non-perishable
food items. Kids in the neighborhood act in it,” John said.
“It became a big hit a couple
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of years ago.”
This year will be the first
time the Rossignol family is
using a public space for their
haunted house.
“I’m very, very nervous,”
John said. “It’s no exaggeration – there are probably 30
hours of planning, finding
decorations. I think about it
every day. My co-workers are
probably tired of listening to
me.”
Susan Rossignol, John’s
wife, said though she and
her family have several years’
experience of creating their
scary tableaux using easyups and tarps, she anticipates some troubleshooting
at the new location.
“One of the largest obstacles is that of preparation
time,” she said. “This is an issue we will need to overcome
using a new venue in the fact
that, when setting up in our
backyard, we take about two
weeks to set up the haunted
house. Using the Freemasons Hall, we will only have 1
1/2 days to set up the entire
haunted house.”
On the other hand, all
concerns about the weather
have evaporated with the indoor location.
In addition to Adele, the
Rossignols’ son, Evan, will be
a part of the scary fun, too.
Last year was the largest collection the Rossignols
had, in which they collected
more than 200 food items.
This year, the goal is 500
items. The event is appropriate for children ages 7 to 14,
although Rossignol is happy
to turn the lights on in the
hall to help younger children
feel more comfortable, if necessary.
“The older you are, the
more we are going to try to
scare you,” he said. “Adults
have just as much fun as
the kids. We encourage the
adults to go as well.”
The event will be held
on Halloween, Oct. 31 from
5 to 9 p.m. at the Freemasons
Hall, 991 Hopmeadow St.,
Simsbury.
PRESSOPINION
To the editor:
He’s always there –
any town
gathering, meeting, celebration,
event. Quiet, unassuming, listening, learning, questioning, offering his intelligent, informed opinions when needed or asked.
And he is informed (he’s on
numerous town committees, including the Board of Selectmen
for four years), gathering facts,
hearing opinions, weighing options, leading the way on many
projects proposed for Canton – all
four towns of us! He deeply cares
about Canton – the economy, the
development, the preservation of
our beautiful open space.
But first and foremost, Tom
Sevigny cares about us – the
residents of Canton: what do we
want, what are our needs, what
are the complaints and the successes, where do we want to go
from here.
I trust Tom’s expertise and
wisdom.
I trust Tom.
I will absolutely vote for him
for first selectman in November.
How about you?
Giorgio Pinton
Canton resident
Palumbo for
Town Council
Andrea Sobinski is right choice for BOE
To the Editor:
I am writing to express my support for Andréa Sobinski, candidate for Farmington Board
of Education. I met Andréa five years ago, when
Andréa became actively involved in the Parent/
Teacher Organization at Noah Wallace School.
For five years, she has led the Noah Wallace community in welcoming newcomers to our school
and town by organizing a social for new students
and their families. As PTO secretary and co-president, she has been a member of the PTO’s Executive Board, working alongside the principal and
other faculty to address the needs of students,
families, teachers and staff.
I have found Andréa to be hard working and
dedicated in her many PTO leadership roles. She
approaches situations thoughtfully and with intelligence. She considers all sides of an issue, yet
is a capable decision maker. She does not shy
To the editor:
Two more years! Please join me in supporting Lisa Heavner, the right choice for first selectman of the great town of Simsbury!
When Lisa assumed the job as first selectman in January of 2015 amid a turbulent and politically charged time in Simsbury, I breathed a
sigh of relief. I knew we would be in good hands.
Like all of us, Lisa knows it’s important to
find ways to do more with less. Last year, Lisa
worked closely with Mary Glassman to craft a
town budget that delivered Simsbury’s first tax
decrease in 40 years. And this year, as first selectman, she did it again. Tax decreases two years
in a row.
She found and implemented regional cooperative initiatives that led to significant op-
Ray & Nancy Iwanicki
Farmington residents
PRESS
540 Hopmeadow St.
Simsbury, CT 06070
Phone: 860-651-4700
Fax: 860 606-9599
Beth Kintner
Farmington resident
Vote Heavner for two more years
To the editor:
Gary Palumbo is running to
become a member of the Farmington Town Council.
In a few words, I can say that
Gary Palumbo is an honest businessman who is the proprietor
of Farmington Jewelers, a local
jewelry store. He is also a trusted friend, a good neighbor and a
good family man, along with being a smart, responsible, practical
and caring person.
You can’t go wrong in electing such a good, decent, intelligent man. He will certainly have
our votes.
away from challenges, and is judicious in her
problem solving.
For several years I have been closely involved
with Farmington’s schools, attended many Board
of Education and Town Council meetings, and
participated in the town’s budgetary process.
Members of the BOE are consistently faced with
the difficult challenge of ensuring our schools
maintain their standard of excellence, provide
the best education for all of Farmington’s students, and remain responsible to the town’s
taxpayers. I believe Andréa’s experience in the
schools and valuable skills qualify her for a seat
on the Board of Education. I am confident she
will serve our community well.
I encourage you to join me in voting for Andréa Sobinski Nov. 3.
VALLEY
Support for
Tom Sevigny
Letters to the EDITOR
erational efficiencies and cost savings for the
town. She reduced costs through town pension
reforms and better risk management practices.
At the same time, Lisa seeks opportunities
to grow our tax base, always mindful of maintaining the wonderful character and quality of
life we have all come to expect in Simsbury.
Lisa is not only one of the most intelligent
and hardest working people I know, but she is
also a consensus-builder, a good listener, and always open to new ideas and lively debate.
Lisa Heavner is the real deal – a dedicated public servant and outstanding community
leader. Vote for Lisa and keep Simsbury moving
in the right direction!
Debra Schmetterling
West Simsbury resident
www.TurleyCT.com
The Valley Press
is a publication of
TurleyCT
Community Publications
Delivering local news,
sports, entertainment
and more to the
Farmington Valley
community
Keith Turley
Publisher
Abigail Albair
Editor
aalbair@turleyct.com
Elaine Lang has the skills we need
To the Editor,
I write to support Elaine Lang for Simsbury
selectman. As a business owner, and community
member for 30 years, the economic health of our
town is important to me.
Under Mary Glassman, and more recently
Lisa Heavner’s leadership, we have been nationally recognized as one of the best places to live.
And while we have great schools, parks and
other wonderful resources, we continue to need
more of a business base.
In my work as a leadership consultant, I
help groups determine skills needed for key leadership roles. We need to add to our tax base. We
want economic stability without compromising
quality of life. To achieve this we need a selectman highly skilled in branding, marketing and
David Heuschkel
Sports Editor
public relations.
In these challenging times Simsbury’s
unique “brand” has to be promoted. Elaine’s
passion for local business and attracting new
business is clear. Her knowledge gained from
a career in public relations and new media
marketing will be of great value. Her time with
Burson-Marsteller, the world’s largest public relations firm, and her decades of online consulting uniquely qualify her to market Simsbury to
the kind of firms that will employ our residents
and add value to our community. I believe Elaine
Lang will bring innovative and thoughtful approaches to developing our local economy.
I encourage you to also vote for Elaine
Nov. 3.
Charles Wolfe
Simsbury Resident
Melissa Friedman
Advertising Director
860-978-1345
Melissa@turleyct.com
Barbara Ouellette
Classified Sales
classifieds@thevalleypress.net
FIND US ON
Letters policy
Letters to the editor should be 400 words or less in length. Political letters should be 250 words or less. Guest columns will be published at the discretion of
the editor and should be no more than 650 words in length. No unsigned or anonymous opinions will be published. We require that the person submitting
the opinion also include his or her town of residence and a phone number where they can be reached. We authenticate authorship prior to publication. We
reserve the right to edit or withold any submissions deemed to be libelous, unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks or defamation of character. Send
opinion submissions to: our editor, Abigail, via email at aalbair@turleyct.com or via mail to 540 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury, 06070. Deadline for submissions
is Friday at noon for the following week’s edition. Call our office, 860-651-4700, with questions.
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
11
Need
a
tow?
We’re available 24 hours a day.
Letters to the EDITOR
Vote Democratic for Farmington BOE
To the editor:
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To the editor:
By Stephen Allaire
Autumn Leaves
Autumn leaves are turning red and yellow and russet and
the landscape is a pleasure to the eyes. Crisp days and cool
nights invigorate our mood and we move along with a little
more bounce in our step.
At the same time, those first few leaves spiraling down
from the trees tell us that spring and summer are gone and we
are heading into the twilight of the year. The circadian rhythm
of our bodies and minds start to alter as the earth once again
nears its transit of the sun, and we think of preparing our
homes and ourselves for the winter to come.
It’s a shame to break the reverie of these thoughts, but
the parallels to our own lives are there, as we age and our own
bodies and minds change. If you are over sixty five, the U.S.
mail notices from insurance companies selling Medicare Supplement policies fall faster than the leaves, because the Medicare enrollment period for Medicare C and D starts October 15
and goes through Pearl Harbor day, December 7. Please review
your options carefully if you need Supplemental Coverage because there are as many varieties as there are colors in the tree
line.
Getting ready for the colder weather also has parallels
to planning for life changing events that include sickness or
someone dying. The squirrels put away the nuts they collect,
so taking a page from them, it may be time to review and update those old estate planning documents that may no longer
accomplish what you want or need. Maybe reviewing what
would happen if your spouse became sick is needed. Or simply
making a list of your assets and where you keep your important documents could be very helpful to your kids if you suddenly became incapacitated.
The seasons of our lives do change, and we have to
change with them. The laws, regulations and government programs that can provide aid to keep our loved ones at home are
forever changing, and what may have been true last year, or
even last summer, may no longer be true. There is little worse
than counting on some program to provide you help in the
winter of your years, and finding out too late that the rules have
changed. One example is the new labor law that may inhibit
needy families from getting twenty four hour home care. That
law could have a really negative effect on those needing home
care, and might even force some into a nursing home.
So before autumn turns to winter, and the ponds freeze
over, follow the example of the creatures who have to prepare
for winter, and find out what is wise to do to prepare and set
about doing it. Not only will you feel better about being prepared, but you will be ready to face whatever the future may
bring.
Enough of this analogy to the seasons of the earth. Put
away this article, go outside and breathe the air, see the brilliance of the trees against the blue autumn sky, and if it is your
favorite season, as it is for me, give thanks for the beauty of it
all. Oh, and don’t forget to turn your clock back on November
1. Your kids don’t know how to do that because their computers and I-phones automatically change the time and they don’t
have clocks anyway, but you, like me, need the reminder.
Attorney Stephen O. Allaire is a partner in the law firm of Allaire
Elder Law, members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc., with offices at 271 Farmington Avenue, Bristol,
(860) 259-1500, or on the web at www.allaireelderlaw.com. If
you have a question, send a written note to Attorney Allaire
at Allaire Elder Law, LLC, 271 Farmington Avenue, Bristol, CT
06010, and he may use your question in a future column.
The
Valley Press
Ellen Siuta
Farmington Board of Education member since 2009
Support for Suffredini
Senior
Signals
12
Please join me in supporting Liz Fitzsimmons, Melanie
Meehan and Andrea Sobinski to serve on the Farmington
Board of Education. In my opinion, it would be difficult, if
not impossible to find more dedicated or qualified individuals to fill these important roles.
I have had the privilege of working with Liz, Melanie
and Andrea in many parent leadership and community organizations, as former BOE members, BOE liaisons, PTO
leaders and tireless town budget advocates. I have firsthand knowledge of their dedication to our schools. Liz,
Melanie and Andrea will bring both a fine-tuned and fresh
perspective to the Board of Education and have the intellect and compassion to further the vision of Farmington
public schools.
I believe in the importance of electing officials who will
focus on preserving the quality of life in Farmington. Liz
Fitzsimmons, Melanie Meehan and Andrea Sobinski have a
long history of dedication to our schools and our town and
I believe they will serve our town with distinction.
Please join me in voting for Liz Fitzsimmons, Melanie
Meehan and Andrea Sobinski on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
October 22, 2015
When one spends years and years
participating in local, state and federal
elections and being active in partisan
politics, I have met many wonderful,
intelligent and honest individuals from
both major political parties and even a
few from splinter groups.
My deciding factors in voicing
support or working for the election of
a candidate have been: intelligence,
honesty, a high level of personal and
professional integrity and kindness and
tolerance for others. One factor stands
out and that is the capability of the candidate to work with those of opposing
views be they of the same party or of
the opposition and placing the good of
the community above party and personal needs.
There is one candidate in the upcoming town of Farmington Council
election who stands tall in each of the
above factors:
Amy Suffredini is an individual
who scores as high as possible in each
of my decision-making factors. As an
individual and a civic leader, Amy has
shown both myself and my spouse that
she is one of few who can maintain
strict personal ethics, humor (always a
smile) and still be strong enough in her
convictions to allow her to make the
right decisions for the town of Farmington and those of us who live here.
We both have personally observed her
non-public kindness and compassion
when dealing with a person in need.
Doris and I urge you to allow Amy
another term to strengthen the financial, educational and social norms of
our town.
Bill Volovski will make an excellent
selectman for Canton. Selectmen need
to have a strong record of commitment,
the ability to listen and a selfless desire
to improve Canton. Bill has all these.
Bill’s commitment to Canton is exemplified by his 37 year history with the
fire service. Serving us all at the sound
of a siren for almost four decades. His
experience and leadership has made a
difference to hundreds of unfortunate
folks.
Conversations with Bill have always been friendly two-sided learning
opportunities. His calm demeanor and
well-reasoned words foster trust.
To the editor:
Professionally, his position as
building inspector/zoning officer in
Granby has provided him with a vast
knowledge of how a town, similar in
many ways to Canton, functions, both
well and poorly. Decisions about planning and budgeting are very familiar to
him. He wants to bring this knowledge
to Canton, his home town.
We can look forward to discussing
town issues with Bill Volovski on the
Board of Selectmen. They will be heard
by a committed, knowledgeable Canton citizen and volunteer. He certainly
will get my vote.
As a community, we are
pleased to see that Mark Blore is
running again for a seat on the
Board of Education. As a citizen
of Farmington with two children
in the school system and a wife
who is an educator, Mark truly understands the issues that
face us as a town. Mark invests
his time and energy in Farmington through volunteering in Boy
Scouts and the Exchange Club.
Serving last year on the Board of
Education, Mark Blore, along with
the rest of the board, was able to
work through many tough issues.
Now that it is budget season, it
is clear that Mark would like to
solve many of our educational
problems through common sense
solutions and thinking outside of
the box during negotiations.
Unfortunately, the state has
imposed many mandates while
at the same time the town is looking to upgrade its facilities and
schools. This could become very
costly. We need a man like Mark
Blore on the Farmington Board of
Education. He has shown in the
past year that he is able, through
negotiations and forward thinking, to accomplish the necessary
goals without laying a heavy burden on the taxpayers. Vote for
Mark Blore for the Board of Education. We need someone who
cares about our children and
cares about the bottom line.
David Sinish
Canton resident
Lauren Rand
Farmington
Ed Connole
Doris Connole
Bill Volovski for Canton selectman
To the editor:
Vote for
Mark Blore
Diane Tucker for Farmington Plan and Zoning
To the editor:
Diane Tucker, a candidate for Farmington Plan and
Zoning Commission, is a person of intelligence, integrity
and energy. I have known her for over 30 years and can attest to her deep commitment to our town.
With her many years working as a naturalist in Farmington and her 16 years as a plan and zoning commission-
er, Diane has the background and experience for the job.
Versatile and congenial, she gets along with people from all
backgrounds and persuasions. She will work tirelessly on
behalf of all of us in Farmington. I am proud to endorse her
candidacy.
Elenor Reid
Farmington resident
PRESSNews
‘The perfect role
model and teacher’
Community mourns unexpected passing of Grant Sheely
By Ted Glanzer
Staff Writer
Photos by Alicia B. Smith
Above: S-T-R-E-T-C-H, runners went through a series of pre-race
stretches to limber up. Left: Carolyn O’Connor and her daughter
Lilliane, 3, look for their daughter and sister at the start of the race.
On your mark, get set, go!
S
tudents at Cherry Brook Primary School “quacked”
up when their principal, Andrew Robbin, worked the
crowd, telling the students to “put their hands under
their arms and quack like a duck.” The silly ritual was a way
to pump up the crowd before they took their places at the
starting line and took off, running as part of the 3rd Annual Fun Run, which started three years ago as a way to raise
money for a new playground at the school. Last year, the
event raised $4,200. This year, race organizers said the event
has taken on new meaning. “It’s become a community building
event more than a fundraiser,” said Rebecca Briggs, co-chair of
the Fun Run. In addition to building community, Ann Marie Pelletier,
co-president of the school’s PTO, said the event also serves as a way to
promote a healthy lifestyle through exercise. Pelletier was pleased that
the Oct. 16 event, held after school, took place just as the last playground
equipment was added the night before.
FARMINGTON — He called
them his kids.
That’s what Grant Sheely,
the longtime physical education
teacher at Noah Wallace School,
used to refer to his students.
They were his kids.
His kids, their parents, and
myriad others – products of 36
years of teaching in Farmington at Noah Wallace School and
East Farms School – mourned
Sheely’s unexpected passing
Sunday, Oct. 11. He was 65.
Stories abounded about
Sheely, from reaching out to every student he taught, regardless of age or athletic ability, to
his legendary greetings directed
at students on the first day of
school, to ensuring that school
assemblies ran smoothly.
A great school is more than
any one teacher, but everyone
agreed that Sheely was the heart
of Noah Wallace. He made the
school buzz with positive energy.
“He did everything at that
school,” Town Councilor Amy
Suffredini said as she fought back
tears at the council’s meeting
Oct. 13. “He touched hundreds,
if not thousands, of lives. … He
was an enormous gem. We’re
all going to miss him greatly.
… He will never be replaced.”
Sheely did more than have
kids run the obligatory mile or
teach them about fitness. He
preached kindness and respect,
how to be safe and how to take
risks.
He was the master of ceremonies for the school talent show, passed the microphone back and forth during
assemblies, took a seat as a
target for the dunk tank and
would put kids at ease on the
See SHEELY on page 28
Historical society no longer intends to preserve barn on Wagner Ford site
By Sloan Brewster
Senior Staff Writer
SIMSBURY — The Simsbury
Historical Society won’t be getting
the barn on the former Wagner
Ford property after all.
There’s a big “For Sale” sign
posted on the historic barn, which
is located on Hopmeadow Street
on property now owned by the Big
Y Corporation. A resident called
the paper to alert it to the sign and
ask the status of the barn.
As of October of last year, a
portion of the barn was to be preserved by the historical society.
Big Y had agreed to donate the
barn to the society, Richard Wagner said then.
In August 2014, during a special meeting, the society accepted
the donation of the small wing of
the barn, member Ieke Scully said.
The vote came after a two-year discussion on how to use the barn and
fund the project.
Since then, however, things
have changed.
“It was our original intention
to try to preserve the barn, but after further investigation and asking
for public comment, it just became
clear that it was not the opportu-
nity for us,” Simsbury Historical Society President Elaine Lang said in
a phone call Tuesday, Oct. 13. “We
certainly hope it finds new life with
whoever the new owner is.”
The historical society doesn’t
have the resources to take the
barn and maintain and preserve it,
Lang said.
The society’s plan was to place
the barn on a corner of an existing stone foundation from a barn
the society used to have on the
property, former Historical Society
President Kevin Gray said last year.
See BARN on page 18
Photo by Sloan Brewster
The oldest portion of this barn has interesting architectural features
including that it was made in the old post and beam construction method.
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The
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13
Chamber preps for first chili cook-off event with ‘spooky’ theme
By Sloan Brewster
Senior Staff Writer
SIMSBURY — The Simsbury
Chamber of Commerce is taking
local Halloween celebrations to the
next level with a chili cook-off.
Chamber Executive Director
Lisa Gray came up with the idea for
the Spooktakular Chili Challenge
when she attended a chili cook-off
in New Haven in September of last
year.
“I was looking around and
thought this would be so great to
bring to Simsbury,” she said.
She wandered about and
found that some of the chili cooks
were from Simsbury and very excited at the prospect of having a
similar event in their hometown.
Gray saw some Halloween
decorations in a CVS, realized that
in 2015 the holiday would fall on a
Saturday and thought that would
be the perfect date for the cook-off.
The challenge, which is sanctioned
by the International Chili Society,
will draw 25 chili cooks, some from
as far away as Pennsylvania and
New Jersey.
Celebrity judges will include
radio hosts Jim Vicevich and Ray
Dunaway and meteorologist Rachel Frank. Police Chief Peter Ingvertsen and Fire Marshal Kevin
Kowalski will also be judges.
Chamber board member
Marichu Vanasse said she wished
she would have time to whip up
some chili during the event, but
would be too busy as a vendor.
She’s planning to make the time for
next year’s challenge, however.
The chefs and chili cooks she
has spoken to about the event have
years of experience, she said.
“’Chili heads,’ they’re pretty
serious about it,” Vanasse said.
“They’re very competitive; they’re
so passionate.”
The plan is for the event to
become an annual tradition, Gray
and Vanasse said.
The event will include trick or
treating among vendors, a costume
contest, face painting for children
and balloon animals. There will
also be live bands, fire performers,
a man who does aerial motion,
mime, juggling and fun things with
his body, For adults, there will be
wine and beer tasting.
“It’s a whole Halloween celebration,” Gray said.
The chili challenge will take
place at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center on Iron Horse
Boulevard Saturday. Oct. 31 from
noon to 6 p.m.
Council will monitor High Street request, make no decisions soon, official says
By Ted Glanzer
Staff Writer
FARMINGTON — The Farmington Town Council will not make
any rash or quick decisions concerning a petition to install a cul de
sac at High Street, according to the
council chairwoman.
Nancy Nickerson said at the
council’s meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13,
that she and fellow councilors had
received numerous email messages
on the issue.
“We have so much going on
with Route 4, with the Gateway
Committee and the state project,”
Nickerson said. “A lot is going to
change on Route 4 and on that corner [of High Street and Route 3]. …
We are going to, as a council, take
this up and … monitor this on an
ongoing basis.”
Nickerson noted the work that
the town’s Traffic Review Board
is doing concerning the petition
signed by 27 High Street residents
to turn the street into a cul de sac.
“Currently, there are some issues that have gone to the traffic
advisory committee,” Nickerson
said. “It’s looking into some things;
we understand and realize that the
[traffic] impact is not one or two
streets. It’s our town. Some areas
are impacted more than others. …
Nothing has been done, and I want
to make sure you understand that’s
not the way things are going to
happen here. “
The petition calls for the town’s
Traffic Review Board to pass a resolution approving “the placement of
a cul de sac at the north entrance
of High Street. Any costs associated
with modifications to High Street
to create this cul de sac will require
approval from the Town Council.”
When they learned of the proposal, a number of Farmington res-
idents responded that turning High
Street into a cul de sac would result
in greater traffic in the area and
would only serve to benefit High
Street residents.
Mountain Road resident Jay
Bombara said that High Street is
the only street in that area where
traffic doesn’t line up, and vehicle
speeds aren’t too bad.
If High Street is closed off to
through traffic, drivers will find
other routes, including funneling
more traffic into the intersection
of Mountain Road and Main Street,
which is the heart of Miss Porter’s
School, Bombara said.
However, High Street resident Emily Kaliney said in a telephone interview that High Street
is not like other through streets
in town, such as Garden Street,
because it is a narrow road with
no double lines and doesn’t have
traffic-calming measures such
as speed bumps.
“We see people who are driving angrily down the street,” Kaliney said. “They are annoyed at
the Route 4 construction and they
whip around the street when they
take it.”
Kaliney noted that parking is
allowed on one side of the street
and, if cars are parked on it, such
as the large trucks that are working
on the Miss Porter’s field on Mountain Road, then it becomes a dangerous situation.
“The drivers … they aren’t driving on the street as though it is a
quiet residential street. That worries us,” she said. “We don’t think
the street was built to handle the
traffic it’s seeing.”
While High Street does have a
sidewalk on one side of the street
and a stop sign was installed at
High Street and Mountain Road,
making it a three-way intersection,
AUCTION - Monday, November 2nd, 6:30 pm
traffic is still an issue, Kaliney said.
“Our overall goal is to increase
safety,” she said.
However, Kaliney said that,
according to the town, High Street
has had 12 accidents in the three
years from 2012 to 2014.
She did note that the petition
has spurred a conversation about
traffic not just in Farmington Village, but for the entire town. She
said that has been a positive step
unto itself.
“We don’t view ourselves in a
vacuum,” she said.
Still, she said that neighbors
on High Street seek to have traffic
calmed on the road, including pursuing the cul de sac.
The Traffic Review Board is
currently reviewing that data and
will have a recommendation to the
town’s traffic authority, Town Manager Kathy Eagan, sometime in November or December. 18 Month
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Firefighters rally to support comrade in breast cancer battle
By Ted Glanzer
Staff Writer
FARMINGTON — Firefighters are notorious for their inability to keep secrets.
“Telephone, telegraph, tell a firefighter,” Farmington’s Director of Fire & Rescue
Services Mary-Ellen Harper said in an interview. “If one firefighter knows, then everyone knows.”
So, it came as a shock and a surprise
when the town firefighters union – Town of
Farmington Local 3103 – surprised Harper
with a T-shirt they designed and a monetary pledge in support of Harper’s battle
with breast cancer, with which she was diagnosed in April.
It was particularly poignant to Harper
that the firefighters could pull off the feat
– collaborating, designing the T-shirt with
Jen Hogan, owner of JB Sports Gear, and
presenting Harper with the check – without her finding out.
“I thought that was a sweet thing to do,”
Harper said. “It was a wonderful gesture.”
Harper, for her part, said she couldn’t
keep the money for herself. Instead, she’s
donating it to two separate organizations:
one that funds breast cancer research and
the other that supports firefighters with
breast cancer.
“The only thing we’ve learned in this
process with cancer is how much the doctors don’t know,” Harper said.
“The only appropriate thing to do was
to put the money to research.”
Harper has a long road ahead.
She has four more chemotherapy sessions left and 12 behind her, then surgery,
then 35 radiation sessions, then another
year of chemotherapy, then five more years
of preventative medicine.
“So far, so good,” Harper said. “The
prognosis is good. If we get there, then we’re
doing the right things.”
But she still manages to keep up with
an unholy schedule of work, family (including out-of-state travel soccer tournaments)
and treatment.
Her Facebook posts – detailing everyday life as well as her treatment – are the
stuff of legend.
“Chemo #12 done today,” reads a post
from Oct. 7. “Next week I’m headed to the
Final 4. My physician’s assistant said she’s
never heard anyone refer to their last 4 chemos that way. I told her I plan to advance
to the Semi Finals and Championship, too.
“Two kids who refused to get out
of bed, one lost soccer jacket, one water
bottle that leaked all over the inside of a
backpack 10 minutes before the bus came,
and a dog with diarrhea all over the dining
room,” reads another from Oct. 8. “How’s
your morning?!?”
Her posts have had an effect on her
friends.
“She’s brought a new spin to someone
fighting cancer,” Hogan said.“ You read her
posts and you can’t help but smile. You have
incredible compassion [ for her]. You also
can forget what she’s really fighting.”
Hogan said she was happy to be a part
of the firefighters’ plan to surprise Harper.
“The firefighters came to me with an
idea – they wanted a shirt, I’m just providing the means,” Hogan said. “It honors
Mary-Ellen and breast cancer awareness,
and as soon as they floated the idea, I said,
‘I’m all in.’”
The shirts have a pink firefighter logo
in front and a caricature of a firefighter on
the back, holding a large pink ribbon. The
initials “MEH” – for Mary-Ellen Harper –
Simsbury Chamber of Commerce presents
plus...
Beer - Wine
Hard Cider
Tasting
Live Entertainment
featuring:
Creedence-Fogerty
Tribute Band
The Fountainhead
Band
Atlas Gray
Visit: simsburychili.com
or call
860-651-7307
Simsbury
Spooktacular
Chili Challenge
Courtesy photo
Director of Fire & Rescue Mary-Ellen Harper
adorn two axes, with her number: CAR 500
on the firefighter’s helmet.
The shirts, which will be on sale
through the month of October – Breast
Cancer Awareness month – have been
selling quickly, Hogan said, with 25 orders
having come in the first 12 hours. It’s something near and dear to Hogan, whose husband, Jeff, was diagnosed with colon cancer
in August. Harper is also a friend.
“She worked with Jeff [Hogan] and
[their son], Conor, when he was a firefighter,” Hogan said. “It was a great opportunity
to help somebody who is part of our town
and does a lot for our town.”
Prior to that, Hogan has used her business as a way of helping individuals and organizations raise funds through the sale of
shirts, blankets, shorts, hoodies and other
items.
“I like doing this stuff. I like teaming
up with people to do that,” Hogan said. “It’s
fun to see somebody’s charity do way better
than they thought it would.”
To order a shirt, visit: jbsportsgear.
com and click on the Farmington Fire Department button at the top.
5th Annual Halloween Candy Buy Back
Bring the kids down on
Thursday, November 5th from 2-5pm.
Receive $2 per pound (up to 5lbs) for all candy donations!
Have any leftover candy that wasn’t passed out on Halloween?
That works too! =)
All donated candy will be sent to our soldiers
overseas through Operation Gratitude.
Operation Gratitude is a non-profit
organization that prepares and ships Care
Packages for U.S. Troops, Veterans,
Wounded Warriors and Military Children.
We will also be collecting the
following dental hygiene
items for donation:
• Lip Balm
• Toothpaste & Toothbrushes
• Dental Floss
• Mouthwash (Travel Size)
Mitchell S Katz,
DDS & Associates
111 Simsbury Rd,
Avon, CT 06001
(860)678-1700
www.dockatz.com
Huge Stock Sale!
Saturday, Oct. 31 ~ Noon to 6:00pm
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The
Valley Press
15
Simsbury racks up mileage, is top ranked in Bike Challenge
By Sloan Brewster
Senior Staff Writer
SIMSBURY — Simsbury riders logged 64,000
miles in the Simsbury Bike
Challenge and came in
number one in Connecticut
and the Northeast and fifth
nationally.
The five-month challenge ran from May 1 to
Sept. 30 and tied into the
National Bike Challenge.
Participating riders logged
in each time they rode and
the number of miles they
went.
By the end of the five
months, 106 riders had
logged 64,000 miles, said
Deborah Thibodeau of
Simsbury’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and Simsbury Free Bike.
The entire community of Simsbury, including
Weatogue and Tariffville,
ranked number five in the
local challenges.
By the national challenge standards, which goes
by zip codes and includes
only the single zip code for
the town proper and does
not even include riders from
Weatogue and Tariffville,
Simsbury was number one
in the state by a large margin, Thibodeau said.
Last year, 47,000 riders
participated in the national
challenge. Thibodeau was
one of them. She has been
participating since 2013.
This year, there were
47,500 riders nationally and
a total of 37.7 million miles
logged.
Locally, Larry Linonis, at 8,112 miles, came in
number one.
“The man rode every
single day; he rode 154 days.
He did not miss a day,” Thibodeau said. “He rode more
than people drive in eight
months.”
Linonis came in second
out of the 500 Connecticut
riders who participated and
took 43rd in the country.
“He was like the 99.9
percentile,” Thibodeau said.
At 3,675 miles, Pattie Jacobus took top place
among females, Thibodeau
said. Jacobus placed fourth
overall for Simsbury, 16th
overall for Connecticut, and
was the third ranking female in the state.
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Courtesy photo
On Oct. 14, local challenge participants gathered at Joe Pizza for a celebration. Riders
were able to meet those they had competed against or simply get to know others who are
committed to cycling.
In her first year, Thibodeau logged approximately
500 miles, the next year, she
upped the ante to 800 miles,
and this year she set out
with a goal of going 1,000,
she said in April, just before
the challenge started.
By the end of the challenge, she had gone slightly
over that 1,000-mile goal
and had made a practice of
riding while doing errands
and going shopping, including appliance shopping. In
the end, 40 percent of her
miles were “transportation
miles,” a fact of which she
said she was most proud.
“I was running any errand I could by bike in the
Valley,” she said. “You can go
to the post office, you can
go to the library.”
On a trek to Kohl’s in
Canton, Thibodeau ran into
a friend, who was on her
way to the store to return
a large package. The friend
quipped that she should
ride to shop, too. That way,
she wouldn’t have been able
to buy the large item and
wouldn’t have been forced
to go back to the store to
return it.
“You shop differently
when you bike there,” Thibodeau said.
On Oct. 14, local challenge participants gathered
at Joe Pizza for a celebration. Riders were able to
meet those they had competed against or simply get
to know others who are
committed to cycling, Thibodeau said.
“[During the challenge],
we had people watching
how other people were doing,” she said, adding that
they got to meet and talk.
One of the reasons
the local challenge was set
up was to encourage more
people to ride and not just
for leisure, but as a mode of
transportation, Thibodeau
said. It was also a way to
Notice is hereby given that the location of the polling place is:
Burlington Town Hall
200 Spielman Highway
Burlington, CT 06013
CANTON – Dogology
will host its third annual
“Dogtoberfest” celebration Saturday, Oct. 24 from
noon to 4 p.m. at its Canton store.
“There is a lot more
need than there appears
to be in our community –
there are people and families that continue to struggle financially, and feeding
a cherished pet should
not be a source of worry,”
said Frances Schroeder,
co-owner of Dogology.
“Dogtoberfest” will
include face painting for
the kids, pet photography,
a costume contest for people and their pets, a pie
eating contest for dogs, a
Cake Walk for people, a
chance to win a huge jar
of dog cookies and entertainment. Food will be
available from the Big Red
Food Truck, and for the
grown-ups, Connecticut’s
own Black Hog Brewing
will be on site. During the
event, there will also be
several guest speakers and
a tea cup raffle. Guests are
also encouraged to bring
dog and cat food they can
donate to the Pet Food
Pantry that day.
Dogology is located
at 166 Albany Turnpike in
Canton. Dogs on leashes –
and in costume – are welcome. For more information visit www.dogologyct.
com, call the store at 860352-2352, or find Dogology
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DogologyCT.
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The electors of the Town of Burlington are hereby warned to meet at
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2015 to elect the following Town Officials:
One (1) Town Treasurer; Three (3) Board of Finance-Full Term; One
(1) Board of Finance-To Fill Vacancy for Two Years; One (1) Board
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find out how many people
in town ride.
Thibodeau was surprised by the data that came
in.
“We found out that
Simsbury has an amazing
biking community and that
we bike way more than I
would have ever imagined
We came in fifth in the
whole country,” Thibodeau
said. “What I didn’t realize
was how much Simsbury
residents rode.”
The challenge was supported by local businesses,
which, according to Thibodeau, generously donated
prizes, including 16 prize
packages given by random drawing, distributed
throughout the Challenge to
help keep riders motivated.
The grand prizes included a $250 gift card to
Millwright’s Restaurant and
a Visijax high visibility cycling vest from The Bicycle
Cellar.
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Dated at Burlington, CT this 22th day of October, 2015.
16
The
Valley Press
25 Brixton Road | West Hartford
Yard locations in Harwinton, Burlington and Southington too!
Mary-Jane Ugalde
Town Clerk, Burlington
October 22, 2015
Canton sees increasing SAT scores in face of national trend of decline
By Alison Jalbert
Assistant Editor
CANTON — Canton students
continue to go against the trend
with their SAT scores.
State and national scores have
declined over the last decade, but
Canton’s have increased, according
to Canton High School Principal
Andrew DiPippo. He and Deborah
Schwager, director of guidance,
discussed the 2014-15 SAT scores
at the Oct. 13 Board of Education
meeting.
Schwager explained that the
test aims to provide an assessment
of college readiness and is taken by
more than 2 million students each
year.
In 2015, Canton’s average
score was 1668, while Connecticut’s was 1514 and the nation’s at
1490.
Showing a line graph of SAT
score trends from 2006 to the
present, Schwager said there is a
10-year upward trend of 50-plus
points. The average score in 2012 –
1734 – is an “anomaly,” she said, but
the positive trend remains even
with removing that year’s score.
“That’s quite impressive – a
30-point gain over 10 years,” she
said.
Canton is in District Reference Group C, ranking third in the
group of 15 schools, behind LymeOld Lyme and E.O. Smith in Storrs.
Schwager also compared Canton’s
scores to contiguous districts in
varying DRGs; it came in fourth
behind Avon, Simsbury and Farmington, with Granby, Lewis S. Mills
and Northwestern below it.
“[The SAT] is supposed to be a
test of college readiness,” she said.
“If there’s one thing I see in trade
publications about college education, it’s a concern about how ready
our students are – their critical
thinking skills, how they analyze
data and how well they can write.”
The test has been redesigned
and is “very, very different,” she
cautioned. It now has four sections: evidence-based reading,
writing/language, math and an optional essay.
“We advise students to take it.
It’s considered a much better test of
writing skills and analysis,” she said.
The test is once again scored
on a scale of 400 to 1600. Questions have four answer choices,
and there is no longer a penalty for
guessing. Vocabulary has been deemphasized, and the math section
contains more algebra and “much
less” geometry.
“It’s very much about reading
and writing,” Schwager said. “It’s
going to be much more straightforward in reading, but students
are going to find Common Core
thinking in math. It requires understanding the words of the problem and understanding what the
concepts mean, [then] putting
those into practice.”
More time will be allotted for
each question, but she said that
time will be needed.
Students have expressed their
nervousness about the redesign,
and that is why the PSAT is important, she said. The board recently approved offering the test
to younger students in an effort to
provide more preparation for the
actual SATs.
“Eighth- and ninth-graders
taking this revised exam gives
them so much time to practice before 11th grade.”
The junior class took the
PSATs Oct. 14 and were nervous,
but she said the redesign is a more
rigorous test and a better assessment of college readiness.
UVIA, Chamber, EDC endorse Charles House Commons proposal
By Ted Glanzer
Staff Writer
FARMINGTON — Charles
House Commons – the 268-unit
townhouse/apartment complex
at 19 Perry St. proposed by developer Centerplan Development
Co. – got a boost last week when
several prominent organizations
endorsed the project at the Farmington Town Plan and Zoning
Commission’s meeting Oct. 14.
Representatives from the
Unionville Village Improvement
Association, the Farmington
Chamber of Commerce and the
town’s economic development
commission all expressed their
support for the $60 million to $70
million project that calls for four
large buildings to be constructed
on the 10 acres of land adjacent to
Union School and near the Farmington River.
“I think it’s very exciting; this
is probably historically one of the
most exciting projects being developed in this valley,” Economic
Development Commission member Joe Howard said. “It brings
great opportunities for new businesses, great opportunities for
businesses already here. … This
could be the epicenter of the
Farmington Valley.”
Howard said the commission
normally doesn’t endorse residen-
tial programs.
The developer’s proposal to
clean up the site, which is contaminated with pesticide from
the time the property was used
as a felt factory decades ago, will
range in cost in the neighborhood
of $3 million to $9 million.
Howard noted the overall net
positive impact the project will
have on the economy.
Centerplan CEO Bob Landino said the development would
conservatively add, in a 20-year
cycle, a net benefit of $5.5 million
to the local economy. Property
values in the area would increase
by about 5 percent, Landino
said, just by having the blighted
site improved. Further, new residents would spend $1.5 million in
Unionville and $3.5 million for the
town of Farmington in terms of direct consumer benefit.
Patty LeBouthillier, founding
and current member of the UVIA,
said the group, which was formed
in the late 1990s so the community has a voice in the design and
look of projects in Unionville,
also unanimously endorsed the
project.
LeBouthillier said the project
will provide public access to the
Farmington River, as well as bring
new people into the downtown
area and provide economic and
social benefits.
“I do remember Unionville,
when there were a lot of people
living downtown,” she said. “There
were houses on top of stores.
I’d like to see it have that vitality
again.”
Brendan Moran, president of
the Farmington Chamber of Commerce, echoed LeBouthillier’s and
Howard’s statements.
“This project will [bring a]
blighted contaminated parcel
of land back to life, cleaned and
available to the community,” he
said, adding that the apartment
complex will “not only [provide]
an increase to the tax base, but,
See PROPOSAL on page 28
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The
Valley Press
17
BARN
from page 13
It was to be built into a
two-level building with public
rest rooms on the bottom and
an open air pavilion on top.
Transforming the barn
into a pavilion would not have
been good for the historic barn,
Lang said.
“We had looked at that,
but, apparently, it would have
been so exposed to the elements that it wouldn’t have
been preserved,” she said.
In addition, the cost of
moving it would have been
high, and the barn would have
occupied a large space on the
historical society grounds, but
would only have been useable
in nice weather, Lang said.
“It is lovely and would be
a lovely opportunity for someone who wants to, say, use
those boards to build a structure,” she said, “[or] someone
who wanted to use an old barn
rather than build a new one.”
Matt D’Amour, director
of store development for Big
Y, said the corporation, which
closed on the property early
this year, was looking for an
appropriate buyer for the barn.
Preserving it would be
ideal, but prospective buyers
so far have said the only valuable part of the structure is the
framing, he said.
“We’re hopeful that somebody will buy the whole thing,”
D’Amour said.
The portion of the barn
that was to be preserved has
Big Y still intends to come to Simsbury, official says
been dubbed the muffin top
and has interesting architectural features including that it
was made in the old post and
beam construction method,
Gray has said.
While the historical society doesn’t know the full story
about the barn’s history, preserving it is more about preserving a piece of the state’s
architectural history, especially
since barns made in that fashion are disappearing from the
landscape, Gray said.
“Any barn is significant,
and we’re losing the barns in
the state of Connecticut,” he
said. “We need to save whatever old post and beam barns
that we have.”
Post and beam barns put
together with pegs are more
valuable than many of the tobacco barns seen around town
as the tobacco barns were
made later and much more
cheaply, Gray said. This barn
was first used to house animals and made very well. Later, it was converted for drying
tobacco.
The part that was to be
preserved was also the oldest
part of the barn and would
have been part of a family farm
and used for one or two cows
by the Wilcoxes who lived
there, Gray said.
It wasn’t until much later
that farms became larger and
housed hundreds of cows for
larger scale dairy operations.
That would have been when
the addition was built.
By Sloan Brewster
Senior Staff Writer
SIMSBURY — Big-Y is still planning to come to Simsbury. Eventually.
In a phone call Oct. 14, Matt
D’Amour, director of store development for Big Y, said the corporation
would still put a store in town, but he
doesn’t know when.
“It’s absolutely our intention,” he
said. When that happens is “a board
decision,” he added.
Residents are often asking for updates on when or if the store would be
built and can be heard regularly grumbling at meetings in Town Hall that it
does not seem like it is going to ever
happen.
Resident Joan Coe, for instance,
has made mention to the ongoing
question at several Board of Select-
men meetings, as have others.
Carrie Vibert, land use specialist
for the town, said it had been quite
some time since the Planning and
Land Use Department had heard from
the corporation.
“We’re done with our approvals
for them,” she said. “At this point, we’re
just waiting for them to come in for
their building permit.”
In January, after nearly three
years, the corporation closed on the
Wagner Auto lot on Hopmeadow
Street, First Selectman Lisa Heavner
announced at a Board of Selectmen
meeting that month.
The old auto dealer property is
where the store would be built.
At that time, then Director of
Planning and Community Development Hiram Peck said his office had
not heard from Big Y officials about
their projected timeframes for building the store, but was under the impression the grocery chain’s plan was
to open in October of this year.
In 2012, the Zoning Commission
unanimously approved an application
by Big Y to build a supermarket on the
vacant lot. Since then, delays have prevented the construction from starting.
In August 2013, D’Amour said the
project had been stalled by the town’s
planning and zoning process and that
he had thought the approvals and
permits would have been granted six
months earlier.
In August of last year, Peck attributed the delays to a private disagreement over an easement.
Since the original zoning approval of the site plan, the corporation has
scaled back slightly from 53,000 square
feet to a 49,000-square-foot store.
New director of pupil services begins work in Avon
By Sloan Brewster
Senior Staff Writer
AVON — The school system has
named an interim replacement for
the director of pupil services.
Pamela Potemri has been appointed to the position, according to
a press release. Potemri started the
job Oct. 8.
Potemri graduated from Rhode
Island College where she received a
Bachelor of Science and Arts in special education and political science.
She received a Master of Science in
special education from Simmons
College in Boston.
She also earned a Certificate
of Advanced Graduate Studies at
Johnson and Wales University and is
currently a doctoral candidate in educational leadership at Johnson and
Wales.
Potemri has held director of pupil services positions in Westerly and
South Kingstown, R.I., and has been
a high school assistant principal for
special and related services at Cranston East High School in Cranston, R.I.
Potemri replaces Kelly Grant,
who resigned from the position last
month to take the same role in the
city of New Britaion.
Grant, who has been a school
psychologist in an urban district in
Massachusetts, made an unpopular
recommendation in Avon that led
to the elimination of all school social
workers and their replacement with
school psychologists.
Superintendent Gary Mala
and Assistant Superintendent for
Teaching and Learning Donna Nestler-Rusack, said of Potemri, “During
our search process, she consistently
demonstrated her extensive expertise in special education laws and
procedures, exceptional communication skills and a commitment
to making decisions that are student-centered. We welcome her experience, depth of knowledge, her
intellect and, most especially, her
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The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
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Town seeks fire, EMS chief
By Alison Jalbert
Assistant Editor
CANTON — The Board of Selectmen is currently seeking qualified candidates for the chief of the Town of Canton
Fire Service/Emergency Medical Service
department.
As discussed during the Oct. 14
Board of Selectmen meeting, Robert
Skinner, chief administrative officer, said
the position is for a term of four years,
beginning Jan. 1, 2016 and ending Dec.
31, 2019.
Those interested in the position
should apply no later than Nov. 19. After reviewing the written submissions,
a seven-member panel – consisting of
representatives from the three volunteer fire stations, the EMS division and
the fire police, along with two members
of the public – will interview the candidates. Based on the interviews, the panel will recommend no more than three
candidates to the Board of Selectmen.
“We skipped the selection process
last time,” Skinner said. “Only one person
applied: the current chief.”
The stipend for the position will in-
crease from $5,000 to $10,000 after Jan.
1, 2016.
A motion to authorize Skinner to
initiate the process of posting the job
description was approved unanimously.
In other EMS news, a special town
meeting was held prior to the Board of
Selectmen meeting regarding the EMS
budget deficit. A motion to transfer
$70,700 from the undesignated fund balance to the EMS special revenue fund to
cover the deficit was unanimously approved by the dozen or so residents in
attendance.
Skinner explained that the town’s
ambulance service is set up so that it
is partially run by paid contracting services through Vintech and partially run
by volunteers. This year, the town spent
a lot of money on Vintech, as it couldn’t
get volunteers to cover the necessary
shifts.
“One volunteer has to have a certain
level of certification: Advanced EMT. We
could not find people with those certifications,” he said. “Almost all of the
deficit came from the money we had to
pay Vintech. If you take that out, … [we]
would essentially be in balance.”
Avon’s Robertson earns credentialed
manager designation
By Sloan Brewster
Senior Staff Writer
AVON — Avon Town Manager Brandon
Robertson knew early on where he was going
with his career.
In September, Robertson was awarded the
credentialed manager designation from The
International City/County Management Association while at the association’s annual conference in Seattle.
This is his first time receiving the award,
Robertson said in a phone call Oct. 16.
Professionals with a certain level of education and experience in local government
can apply for the designation, Robertson said.
In addition, they must pledge to abide by the
association’s standards of conduct and code of
ethics and perform about 40 hours of ongoing
professional development each year.
The credentials formally mirror what Roberston already does, he said.
“ICMA is the premier professional program for local government managers and, you
know, I think that as professional government
managers that we have an obligation to commit to astandard of conduct and to professional development,” Robertson said.
As an undergraduate at the University of
Connecticut, Roberston, a political science
major, discovered his interest in public administration. In 1998,while wrapping up his undergraduate degree, he took an option to begin
some work on his Master of Public Affairs degree. Through the program, he took an internship in the town manager’s office in Tolland.
Most people are not exposed to how
things happen on the local front, he said. They
tend to pay more attention to what is happening in state government.
“The local level is where you really impact
peoples’ lives,” Robertson said. “I was really just
taken with it as a fascinating career path.”
As the internship was coming to an end,
the town manager secured funding for a new
full-time assistant position and advised Robertson to apply. He got the job and began work
in September of that year, staying until he completed the graduate program in 2001.
He then took the job as the assistant to
the first selectman in Simsbury, while his wife,
Erica Robertson, who is currently the assistant
town manager in Farmington, took the job as
assistant to the town manager in Farmington.
See ROBERTSON on page 28
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The
Valley Press
19
PRESSBUSINESS
Pizzeria Artistica opens in Farmington
By Ted Glanzer
Staff Writer
tion isn’t to go crazy and to
sell. I want to take my time.
And I want the same thing
next door [at Pizzeria Artistica], too.”
The first thing that one
notices when one enters
the quaint 1,000-squarefoot eatery – it barely seats
15 people – is the red-andwhite-tiled round oven,
which Tolides says can cook
a pizza in just three minutes.
“It can work with both
wood and gas,” he says of his
oven.
Tolides was clear that
Pizzeria Artistica isn’t just
a commonplace pizza joint,
though he does have traditional pepperoni, sausage
and mushrooms on the
menu. He also serves some
unique pizzas, such as a
fresh clam that features entire clams – shells and all –
on the pizza.
“They’re fresh, and you
see them open up when
they cook,” Tolides said. “I
don’t think you can cook
this kind of clam in a regular oven, because the pizza
would take 15 or 20 minutes
to cook and it would dry
out.”
The spinach and feta
cheese pizza is also recommended, Tolides said.
“Spinach has a lot of
water, and we cook it in a
different way, so the pizza
isn’t soggy,” he said.
The beef ragu pizza (ri-
FARMINGTON — With
the phone number 860-6774341, Demetrius Tolides
believes he had come full
circle when he opened
Pizzeria Artistica, located
at 1019 Farmington Ave.
Sept. 28.
Tolides’ father, Peter,
owned the old Pizza King in
Farmington, just a few doors
down from where Pizzeria
Artistica is now located.
Pizzeria Artistica’s phone
number – 860-677-4341 –
is the same as Pizza King’s,
which closed its doors for
good about a decade ago.
“My father opened that
place in 1970,” Tolides said
of Pizza King. “We kept it,
even after my father’s passing, and we sold it in 2004
and then the lease expired.”
Tolides, who also owns
Surrey Liquor Shop, had a
simple answer for why he’s
opening a pizza place next
door.
“I love cooking,” he said.
“I’ve always had a passion
for the food. I like food.”
But the pizzeria also
fits into Tolides’ way of doing business.
“[Surrey Liquor Shop]
is small. It’s unique,” he said.
“My main idea is to enjoy
being in this business by
having a glass of wine with
my friends. Just enjoying my
environment. But my inten-
c
People
on the move
Simsbury Bank hires
Richard Fox
Photo by Ted Glanzer
Ronaldo Agustin (left) and Demetrius Tolides, the manager and owner, respectively, of
Pizzeria Artistica, a newly opened eatery in Farmington
cotta cheese, ground beef
with herbs and spices) is another highlight.
Tolides stressed that he
didn’t just want the restaurant to be known as a pizzeria. The menu features
various salads and antipastis, such as the signature
Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, feta cheese,
olives and pepperoncini for
$10.99), spinach pie ($6.99)
and
antipasto
(mixed
greens, prosciutto di parma,
tomatoes, cucumber, red
onion, roasted pepper and
fresh mozzarella for $10.99).
In addition, the restaurant also offers paninis and
wraps (chicken, burrata,
prosciutto di parma, roasted turkey, tuna loin, ham
and dilusso genoa) for $9.99.
Further breaking away
from the mold, he also takes
suggestions, such as the
one patron who made his
own baked-potato pizza by
bringing in the spuds, sour
cream and bacon.
He’s also bringing in a
guest chef on Wednesdays
to whip up various things
that aren’t on the menu, all
to keep things fresh and exciting.
The only thing that
Tolides is locked into as far
as the menu is concerned is
quality.
“There are no shortcuts
here,” he said. “I may be out
of business next week, but
it won’t be because of the
food.”
And though the menu
continues to evolve, Tolides
is thrilled with where the
eatery is.
“I’m excited,” he said.
“The place came out great.
It’s really nice. I love it.”
Pizzeria Artistica is
located at 1019 Farmington Ave. It’s open Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9
p.m., Friday and Saturday,
11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 4 to 9 p.m. Reservations
are not taken. Pick up or
dine in. Call 860-677-4341
for more information.
Simsbury Bank has announced that Richard
Fox has joined its Simsbury Bank Home Loans
team as a mortgage loan
advisor. In this role, Fox
will work one-on-one
with homebuyers, advising them on the best
mortgage options for
their specific needs, assisting them with the
application process, and
ensuring the progression
of the mortgage application through to closing.
He will work closely with
clients, realtors, financial
advisors and attorneys
in central and northern
Connecticut.
Joseph Pagliarini, senior vice president, chief
mortgage and consumer
lending sales officer, said,
“We are very pleased to
have Richard join us; he
brings a wealth of knowledge and is a responsive advisor who helps
his clients choose the
best financing option to
achieve their goals.”
Fox has more than
26 years of mortgage
origination experience.
Prior to joining Simsbury
Bank, he was a senior
mortgage loan officer
with Bank of America.
He lives in Longmeadow,
Mass.
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The
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AVON––––––––––––
Sew Thankful Quilters making Quilts of Valor
for service people touched by war Thursday,
Oct. 22, 6-9 p.m., at Avon Congregational
Church, 6 West Main St., drop in
Italian Club of Avon Annual Food Fair
Saturday, Oct. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at 32 Old
Farms Road, with homemade pasta, meatballs,
sauce, casseroles, soup and desserts for sale
to take home, raffle items – lunch available at
the club’s Café Savoy of grinders, salad, pasta
fagoli and macaroni and cheese for kids
Harvest Quilt Show Saturday, Oct. 24, 10
a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 25, noon-5 p.m., at
Avon Congregational Church, 6 West Main St.,
admission $8
Meet the Republican candidates Sunday Oct.
25, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at Avon Free Public Library,
281 Country Club Road, free
Moms Night Out Sunday, Oct. 25 at Lemon
Llama Kids Boutique, 29 East Main St., lecture:
Talking with Your Daughter: Conversation
without Confrontation (860-678-7087)
Senior Citizens of Avon organization
meeting Monday, Oct. 26 at 635 West Avon
Road – soup, salad and dessert at noon
followed by a movie, “Anne of Green Gables,”
the sequel
Avon Newcomers club meeting Tuesday,
Oct. 27, 9:30 a.m., at the Avon Congregational
Church, 280 Country Club Road
Pumpkin Patch at Memorial United Methodist
Church, 867 West Avon Road, open thru Oct.
31, with pumpkins of all sizes, Saturday, 10
a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday and Monday, noon-6
p.m. (860-673-2111)
BURLINGTON––––––-
Parks & Recreation fall programs registration
at www.burlingtonctparksandrec.com:
• Spooktacular Family Fun Day Saturday,
Oct. 31, 2-4 p.m., at Foote Road Complex,
$3 – Touch a Truck, DJ, costume parade, face
painting, goodie bags, Bounce House and more
(rain location: Har-Bur Middle School)
• After School Ski and Snowboard at Ski
Sundown grades 5-12, registration deadline
Nov. 9
• Holiday Light Competition, enter online or by
mail by Dec. 15
$45, register – paint a colorful woodscape
painting to take home
• Hobgoblin Fair Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 a.m.noon or 1-3 p.m., $8 children/$4 adults, ages
3-8, pre-register
CANTON––––––––––-
At the Canton Senior/Community Center, 40
Dyer Ave., 860-693-5811:
• Making It Meaningful: Planning for the Future
educational series Thursdays thru Nov. 5
at 4:30 p.m., sign up for one or more – Oct.
22, “Estate Planning: The Benefits; Oct. 29,
Paying for Long Term Care: Ways to Keep from
Going Broke; Nov. 5, Hospice & Palliative Care:
Making Informed Decisions
• Empowerment Workshop Friday, Oct. 23,
10 a.m., for those 55 and older, $6, sign up –
workshop promoting self-confidence, mental
and physical awareness and expressive
movement within one’s limitations
• Travel trip Tuesday, Oct. 27, Salem in October,
$110 per person
• Cooking with Kristen: Nutrition Workshop
Mondays, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 at 1 p.m., sign up
required for entire series – new recipes, eat
healthier and what healthiest foods are
• Sign up for AARP Smart Driver Safety Course
to be held Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Farmington Valley VNA blood pressure
screenings Wednesday, Oct. 28, 11:30 a.m.-1
p.m., Canton Community Center, 40 Dyer Ave.
Board of Selectmen public hearing
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m., regarding a Right
to Farm Ordinance
New Parks and Recreation Basketball
League for boys and girls in 1st-8th grades,
fee $125 (grades 1-4) and $145 (grades 5-8),
registration deadline Friday, Oct. 30 at www.
cantonrec.org, by phone at 860-693-5808 or
in person at the office
Looking for volunteers for Neighbors
Helping Neighbors work day Nov. 7 from
8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., to volunteer call Kathy
Corkum at 860-693-8612 or Cynthia Politano
at 860-693-1210
Sponsor families in need for holidays with
Canton Social Services holiday gift giving
program; if interested in being sponsored or
sponsoring a family, contact the office at 860693-5811, ext. 6, by Nov. 6
Friday Night Out Dinner at the North Canton
Community United Methodist Church, 3Case
St., North Canton, Oct. 23, 5-7 p.m., country
meatloaf, $13/$6, take-out available (860693-4589)
FARMINGTON–––––--
Kitchen remodeling guidelines and trends
and bathroom planning guidelines - kitchen
seminar Thursday, Oct. 22, and bathroom
seminar Thursday, Oct. 29, both 7-9 p.m.,
with Lorey Cavanaugh of Unionville, owner of
Kitchen & Bath Design + Construction, at the
KBDC showroom, 13 Sedgwick Road, West
Hartford, thru adult continuing ed programs of
Farmington and West Hartford, to register, call
Farmington Continuing Ed at 860-673-8263
Canton Community Nusery School, 125
Dowd Ave., annual Halloween Party Saturday,
Oct. 24, 1-3 p.m., games, prizes, face painting,
bounce house and a silent auction, admission
$3 per child, parents enter for free
Concert Series at Canton High School with
Jeff Holmes Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m., in
the high school auditorium, 76 Simonds Ave.,
second concert Jan. 9 with Funky Dawgz,
tickets $20 general admission, $15 students
and seniors; $35/$25 subscription for both
concerts, call 860-693-7707
Fall Rummage Sale at St. James Episcopal
Church, 3 Mountain Road, Friday, Oct. 23, 5-8
p.m., admission $5, and Saturday, Oct. 24, 9
a.m.-1 p.m., bag sale $7 (860-677-1564)
Final Sunday for Collinsville Farmers
Market Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., on Main Street
in downtown Collinsville
Farmington Highway & Grounds Division of
Public Works:
• Bulky Waste Collection thru Friday, Oct. 23,
picked up on normal trash pickup day
• Leaf Collection (tentative) beginning Monday,
Oct. 26 and continue thru first week of
At Roaring Brook Nature Center, 70 Gracey
Road, 860-693-0263:
• Painting in the Meadow Friday, Oct. 23, 7-9
p.m., with local artist Lori Racicot-Burrous.
To submit an event for the calendar,
e-mail Sally at
sedwards@thevalleypress.net
November, leaves raked to street edge, not on
road surface, leaves mixed with branches or
other debris will not be picked up, collection
completed twice on all public streets
At the Stanley-Whitman House, 37 High St.,
860-677-9222:
• Ghost Stories for Grownups Saturday,
Oct. 24, 7-9 p.m., for adults only, $12 per
person, register – staff delighting visitors with
unsettling ghosts and eerie happenings in their
own backyard, program includes wine, beer,
snacks by firelight and candlelight in Whitman
Tavern
• Tour of Memento Mori Cemetery Sunday,
Oct. 25, 1-3 p.m., reservations required, $10
per person – walking tour with Director Lisa
Johnson of burial ground on Main Street
• An Old-Fashioned Halloween for children 12
and younger Thursday, Oct. 29, 5-7:30 p.m.,
admission a non-perishable food for Halloween
Against Hunger benefiting Farmington Food
Pantry, wear a Halloween costume.
At the UConn Health Center, 263 Farmington
Ave.:
• Childbirth Preparation Class Saturday, Oct.
24, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Onyiuke Dining Room,
fee $100, call 860-679-7692 to register
• Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before
Joining a Research Study” Monday, Oct. 26, 5
p.m., Onyiuke Dining Room, register at 860679-8802
• Stroke Survivor Group Wednesday, Oct. 28,
noon-1 p.m., Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor (860679-4846)
• Free IVF Information Session Thursday, Oct.
29, 6-8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences
Building, 400 Farmington Ave., registration
required at 860-679-4580
Preston T. Reed Memorial Bridge Ribbon
Cutting Ceremony Saturday, Oct. 24, 2 p.m., at
the Trail Bridge Site in Farmington, 1 mile from
Red Oak Hill Road from the south, or just north of
the Brickyard Trailhead Parking lot, info: Nancy
Anstey 860-676-8878 or 860-680-5298
Farmington UNICO Pasta Dinner Sunday, Oct.
25, 3-7 p.m., at Irving A. Robbins Middle School,
20 Wolf Pit Road, $10/$5 – pasta, meatballs,
Italian bread, Italian ice, lemonade, coffee
Farmington Valley VNA blood pressure
screenings Tuesday, Oct. 27, 1-2:30 p.m., at
the Farmington Senior Center, 321 New Britain
Ave., Unionville
“Sandwiched,” an education series for
caregivers, Tuesday, Oct. 27, 5:30-6:30 p.m.,
at Middlewoods of Farmington, 509 Middle
Road, “The ABCs of Assisted Living” with
Katie Mauriello and Stacy Kesl, Middlewoods
executive directors, RSVP to Ginny Brown at
860-284-5700, light supper served; Paint Nite
Nov. 10, 6 p.m., $10, RSVP, space limited
Events at Farmington Senior Center, 321
New Britain Ave., Unionville, 850-675-2490,
ext. 3:
• Higher Realities Monday, Oct. 26, 1 p.m.,
presentation on near death experiences by
researcher Anthony Sadlack
• Cooking with Leslie Wednesday, Oct. 28,
10:30 a.m., $6, pre-register
• Pickleball Tuesdays and Fridays, drop in,
1:30-3:30 p.m.
• Chit Chat Café Wednesday, Nov. 4, sign up by
Nov. 2, fee $4
“Faces from the Past – Unionville” exhibit
at the Unionville Museum, 15 School St.,
Unionville, thru Nov. 8, open Wednesdays,
Saturdays and Sundays 2-4 p.m.
GRANBY––––––––––
Public flu shot clinics Thursday, Oct. 22, 11
a.m.-1 p.m., at Simsbury Bank, 11 Hartford
Ave., and Friday, Oct. 23, 3-6 p.m., at the VNA
office, 248 Salmon Brook St.
SIMSBURY–––––––--
Simsbury Democratic Town Committee free
“Meet the Candidate” night Thursday, Oct.
22 from 6:30-8 p.m., at the Old Well Tavern,
Route 315, Tariffville, public invited to speak
with candidates on the ballot for the Nov. 3
municipal election, refreshments, cash bar SCTV film festival Friday, Oct. 23, 7 p.m., in
Simsbury High School amphitheater, 34 Farms
Village Road, free
At the Simsbury Senior Center, Eno Memorial
Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St., 860-658-3273:
• Lunch Café at Eno Fridays 11 a.m.-noon, $2/
sandwich, $2/soup: Oct. 23, chicken gumbo
soup, ham salad and egg salad sandwich, and
Oct. 30, garden vegetable soup, chicken salad
and tuna salad sandwich
See CHECK IT OUT on page 22
At the Library
Avon Public Library,
281 Country Club Road, 860-673-9712,
www.avonctlibrary.info:
• Movie Matinee Thursdays, 1:30-4 p.m.:
Oct. 22, Ninotchka
• Medical Ethics Series Thursday, Oct. 22,
7 p.m., “Death on Your Own Terms: Making
Sense of End-of-Life Planning,” presented
by Dr. Thomas Robey, M.D., Ph.D.
• Teen Movie Day “Jurassic World” Friday,
Oct. 23, 2:45-4:45 p.m., grades 7-12
• Haunting Operas, lecture and listening
program presented by Jeffrey Engel
Saturday, Oct. 24, 2-4 p.m., Berlioz and his
Symphonie Fantastique
• Get Ready for College Series: College Fair
Monday, Oct. 26, 6-8 p.m.
• Insiders View of College Admissions
with private college consultant Dr. Roberta
Tansman Tuesday, Oct. 27, 7-8 p.m.
• Teen Karaoke Wednesday, Oct. 28, 3-4 p.m.
• Computer classes with the Uberbots
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 3:30-5 p.m., Rent a
Uberbot Day
• Edward Jones Social Security Seminar
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 6-8 p.m.
• “Dog Tales,” an exhibit by Matthew J.
Wagner Fine Photography thru Oct. 31 in the
gallery
Burlington Library,
34 Library Lane, 860-673-3331,
www.Burlingtonctlibrary.info:
• Goblins and Giggles with storyteller Rona
Leventhal Saturday, Oct. 24, 2 p.m., ages
5-8, register
• Meet Crosby and Lucy Tuesday, Oct. 27,
ages 4 and up, register for a 15-minute slot
• Picnic Story Time Wednesdays at 11:30
a.m. thru Nov. 18, all ages welcome, drop in
Canton Public Library,
40 Dyer Ave., 860-693-5800:
• Music for Me Story Time Friday, Oct. 23,
10:15 a.m. for babies, 11 a.m. for toddlers
and walkers
• Technology Drop-Ins Monday, Oct. 26, 3-4
p.m.
• Drop-In Story Time: Silly Monsters
Celebrate Halloween Tuesday, Oct. 27, 10:30
a.m., ages 3 and up
• After School Video Gaming Tuesday, Oct.
27, 3-4:30 p.m., grades 4 and up
• Saturday Book Conversations Oct. 31, 1
p.m., “The Orchardist: A Novel” by Amanda
Coplin
• “The Artist’s Eye: The Work of Jim Koplar”
in the gallery space thru October
Farmington Library,
6 Monteith Drive, 860-673-6791, ext. 1,
www.farmingtonlibraries.org:
• Afternoon at the Bijou Thursdays, 2-5 p.m.:
Oct. 22, “Betrayed” (mystery) and Oct. 29,
“Psycho” (drama)
• Garmany Music Series: Lara Herscovitch
Thursday, Oct. 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m., register
Me and My Baby, The First Year Together
Fridays, 10:30 a.m., drop in: Oct. 23, Fun
times with friends and nurturing relationships
and Oct. 30, Baby’s first Halloween party
• Read to Lucy Saturday, Oct. 24, 9:15-
10:45 a.m., all ages, sign up
• Celebrate New England Monday, Oct. 26,
6:30-7:30 p.m., Pumpkin Time, register
– pumpkin carving, exploring Halloween
folklore
• Two-part Meditation Workshop: Improving
Your Life through Meditation Tuesdays, Oct.
27 and Nov. 3, both at 7 p.m., with Clare
Vicich, director of Kirpal Meditation Center
Director’s College Event: From the Shadow
of JFK – The Rise of Beatlemania in America
Thursday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m., register
• Chess Club with Alex Lumelsky
Wednesdays, Oct. 28 and Nov. 4 at Plainville
Library, grades K-12, register
• Halloween Eve Celebration Thursday,
Oct. 29, 6:30-7:30 p.m., families come in
costume, register
• Tots & Tunes Halloween Parade Friday, Oct.
30, 9:30-11:30 a.m., three sessions at 9:30,
10:15 and 11 a.m., choose one, ages birth-3
• Fine Art Photography Gallery Show thru
Nov. 30 with artists Glenn Affleck, Kathy
Conway, Ann Hodgdon-Cyr, Andy Mars,
Walter Schuppe, Megan Stevens and Lou
Zucchi
Barney Library, 71 Main St., 860-673-6791,
ext. 2
• Adult Crafternoon Thursday, Oct. 22, 2
p.m., whale windchime, register
• Silly Haunted House program with Janet
Lawler Thursday, Oct. 29, 3:30-4:30 p.m.,
ages 3-8, register, come in costume
Granby Library,
15 North Granby Road, 860-844-5275
• Henna Tattooing Thursday, Oct. 22, 6:30
p.m.
• Craft Week thru Saturday, Oct. 24
• Haunted House Diaries: guest author
Sunday, Oct. 25, 2 p.m.
• Halloween Party for Preschoolers Tuesday,
Oct. 27, 10:30 a.m.
• Storytime for Homeschoolers Wednesday,
Oct. 28, 10:30 a.m.
• Book & Film Series: India Wednesday,
Oct. 28, 1:30 p.m., another segment of
documentary “India,” register
• Sci-Fi/Fantasy Book Club, “Apocalypse
Cow” by Michael Logan Wednesday, Oct. 28,
7 p.m.
• Crafternoon for Kids Thursdays, 4 p.m.
Intro to Genealogy for Kids Thursday, Oct. 29,
6:30 p.m.
Simsbury Library,
725 Hopmeadow St., 860-658-7663:
• Buying and Selling on eBay Thursday, Oct.
22, 6-8 p.m., pre-register
• Friday Flicks 1-3 p.m.: Oct. 23, “Of Mice
and Men” and Oct. 30, “East of Eden”
• Friends Coffeehouse: The Lost Acres String
Band Friday, Oct. 23, 8-9:30 p.m., reserve a
seat
• Craft a fall wreath with master gardener
Amy Schuster Sunday, Oct. 25, 2-4 p.m.,
reserve a seat
• Music for Movies: Jack Brin Music Video
Series Monday, Oct. 26, 1-3 p.m., preregister
• Producing a First Draft Monday, Oct. 26, 7
p.m. – prepare for National Novel Writing •
Month NaNoWriMo with Steve Liskow
• Maximizing Your Memory Tuesday, Oct. 27,
10-11:30 a.m., with Dr. Paul Lupia, Ed.D.
• Haunted House Diaries: The True Story
of a Quiet Connecticut Town in the Center
of a Paranormal Mystery Thursday, Oct. 29,
7-8:30 p.m., pre-register
• Art on display for month of October:
Deborah Sacks in the Program Room,
Jennifer Riccio in the West Gallery, Simsbury
Camera Club in the East Gallery, Forrest
Doyle’s woodworking in the display case
Teen programs
T • een Book Club at Peaberry’s Café Friday,
Oct. 23, 3:30-4:30 p.m., RSVP
• Discarded Book Pumpkins Thursday, Oct.
29, 4-5 p.m., RSVP
Children’s programs
• Teddy Bear Sleepover Friday, Oct.
23-Saturday, Oct. 24, all ages – drop off a
stuffed animal anytime and stay for optional
storytime at 4 p.m. on Friday; pick up animal
and watch a slide show of his/her nighttime
fun from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday
L • ego Mania Saturdays, Oct. 24 and 31, 10
a.m.-2 p.m., ages 5+, drop in
• Meet Maisy Saturday, Oct. 24, 11:30 a.m.
and Monday, Oct. 26, 2 p.m., drop in, all ages
• New Storytime: Hola Bebe Tuesday,
Oct. 27, 9:45 a.m., birth-23 months with
caregiver
• Music with Marie Tuesday, Oct. 27, 10:30
a.m., drop in, ages 1-4
• Chess & Go Club Tuesday, Oct. 27, 4 p.m.,
drop in, grades 2-6
October 15,
22, 2015
The
Valley Press
21
check it out
CHECK IT OUT
from page 21
• Hearing Clinic Tuesday, Oct. 27,
make appt. thru senior center
• Foot Care Clinic Tuesday, Oct. 27,
$29, appts. starting at 8:30 a.m.
• Maximize Your Memory Tuesday,
Oct. 27, 10-11:30 a.m., with Paul
Lupia, Ed.D., sign up by Friday, Oct. 23
• Lunch at Eno Wednesday, Oct.
28, noon, BBQ beef brisket, $3/$4,
sign up the Friday before, Oct. 23,
by noon
• Book Club Wednesday, Oct. 28,
2-4 p.m., “The Art Forger” by B.A.
Shapiro, sign up in advance
• Halloween Bingo Thursday, Oct.
29, 1:30-3 p.m., $2, sign up by
Monday, Oct. 26
Simsbury Land Trust Over the
Hill Bloomfield/Simsbury Hike
Saturday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m., departs
Filley House on Mountain Avenue,
Bloomfield, seeing several land trust
properties on both sides of Penwood
State Park including Hawk Hill Farm
in Bloomfield and Tanager Hill in
Simsbury, RSVP to 860-651-8773
Hunting for Witches in Your Family
Tree Saturday, Oct. 24, 11 a.m.,
at the Simsbury Free Library, 749
Hopmeadow St., free to members/$5
non-members, call 860-408-1336
for reservations with genealogist
Marilyn Giese
“A Journey into the Paranormal”
Sunday, Oct. 25, 2 p.m., at Masonic
Lodge, 991 Hopmeadow St., hosted
by Simsbury Historical Society –
Adam Shefts, director of Northeast
Paranormal Investigation Society,
discussing investigations of historical
buildings conducted by NPIS including
the Phelps Tavern
“Lunch at The Loft” Tuesday, Oct.
27, noon-1:30 p.m., at Millwright’s
Restaurant,
RSVP
charity@
millwrightsrestaurant.com
Farmington Valley VNA blood
pressure screenings Wednesday,
Oct. 28, 11:45 a.m.-2:15 p.m., at Eno
Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St.
McLean Fall Caregiver Educational
Series Wednesdays, thru Nov. 4,
6-7:30 p.m., at McLean, 75 Great
Pond Road, Burkholder Community
Center, light supper provided, RSVP
860-658-3723: Oct. 28, Your Window
to Their World, A Virtual Tour Illustrating
the Reality of Living with Memory
Impairment with Jenna Sweet, Aging
Effortlessly Consultants
“How to Discipline Children”
Thursday, Oct. 29, 6:30-8 p.m., at The
Cobb School, Montessori, 112 Sand
Hill Road, free and open to the public,
Arts & Events
RSVP mail@cobbschool.com
First Annual Squadron Line
School Monster Dash 5k Trail Run,
Kids 1 Mile Run and 100m Dash for
ages 5 and under Saturday, Oct. 31
at Stratton Brook Park, register in
advance or the morning of the dash,
packet pickup Friday, Oct. 30, 3:45-7
p.m. at the school, 44 Squadron Line
Road (SQLmonsterdash@gmail.com)
Simsbury Trunk or Treat at Simsbury
Farms, Old Farms Road, Saturday, Oct.
31, noon, pre-registration for a parking
space required at www.simsburyrec.
com – decorate trunk of car, kids
treat or treat going from trunk to
trunk, prizes for best decorated trunk,
Halloween stories and fun with the
library, a Monster Mash dance party,
inflatable slide
Simsbury Chamber of Commerce’s
events/programs:
• Simsbury Spooktacular Chili
Challenge Saturday, Oct. 31, noon5 p.m., at Simsbury Meadows
Performing Arts Center on Iron Horse
Boulevard, advance ticket $8 per
person (860-651-7307)
• Fun Run/Walk of 3-5 miles at 5:30
p.m. every Tuesday, meeting and
ending at Red Stone Pub, 10 Jim
Gallagher Way
• Be a mentor on Job Shadow Day
Nov. 6, call 860-651-7307
Simsbury Grange and Green
Monster e-Cycling co-hosting
recycling event of tech-oriented
recycling electronics on Halloween,
Saturday, Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-noon,
at Farms Village Shopping Center,
244 Farms Village Road, West
Simsbury, $10 donation suggested
– NO air conditioners, washers/
dryers, refrigerators, dehumidifiers,
water coolers, light bulbs, vacuums,
microwaves and household batteries,
info at www.GreenMonsterrecycling.
com or 860-231-1426
The Learning Connection at
McLean, an ongoing series of
educational workshops Nov. 5, 7, 12,
19, Dec. 3 and 10 at McLean, 75 Great
Pond Road, Burkholder Community
Center, RSVP required at 860-6583741, seating limited
VALLEY & BEYOND
Passages and Pathways Workshop
offered by Susan Levine Friday, Oct. 23,
1-4 p.m., at Tunxis Community College,
271 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington, fee
$45, register at 860-314-4700
Hall High School class of 1945
70th class reunion, a luncheon
Wednesday, Oct. 28 at noon at
Rockledge Country Club, West
Hartford, call 860-233-7129
Chandelier Earrings Art Party Thursday,
Oct. 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the Fisher Gallery
at the Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts
Center Lane, Avon, learn a simple technique
to make the earrings while sipping wine, $35
includes materials, wine and refreshments
(860-678-1867)
Acres Vineyard, 80 Lost Acres Road, North
Granby, tickets $7, 860-324-9481
The Hartford/Ocotal Sister City Project’s
“The Nicaragua Canal Debate: Development,
Environment, Rights” Thursday, Oct. 22, 7
p.m., at Trinity College, Mather Campus Center
Terrace, Rooms A, B & C, with Katherine Hoyt
and Victor Campos, free and open to the public,
parking on Trinity’s campus on Summit Street
and in Seabury lots (860-297-5369)
At Lisa’s Crown & Hammer, 3 Depot St.,
Collinsville, 9:30 p.m.: Friday, Oct. 23, The
Corey Rieman band, and Saturday, Oct 24, The
Goddamn River
Farmington Valley Visitors Association
Haunted Miniature Golf Thursdays-Sundays,
Oct. 22-25 and Oct. 29-Nov. 1, at Farmington
Miniature Golf and Ice Cream Parlor, 1048
Farmington Ave., Farmington, admission $10 per
person (www.fvva.com)
At Infinity Music Hall and Bistro
20 Greenwoods Road North, Norfolk, 1-866666-6306: Oct. 22, 8 p.m., Meghan Linsey; Oct.
23, 8 p.m., Livingston Taylor; Oct. 24, 8 p.m.,
Crystal Bowersox with special guest Seth Glier;
Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m., Spyro Gyra; Oct. 30, 8 p.m.,
The Yardbirds
32 Front St., Hartford: Oct. 22, 8 p.m., Shaboo
All Stars – 44th anniversary; Oct. 23, 8 p.m., The
Tubes featuring Fee Waybill; Oct. 24, 8 p.m., Don
McLean; Oct. 25, 1:30 p.m., Manchester Silk
City Chorus with special guests Hartford Gay
Men’s Choir; Oct. 25, 7:30 p.m., Cab Calloway
Orchestra directed by Calloway’s grandson,
Christopher Brooks; Oct. 27, 8 p.m., NBC’s
Last Comic Standing Live Tour; Oct. 28, 8 p.m.,
George Winston; Oct. 29, 8 p.m., Wise Old Moon
album release with special guest The Meadows
Brothers
At the Wadsworth Atheneum, 600 Main St.,
Hartford, 860-278-2670, thewadsworth.org:
• Gallery Talk: “Curator’s View” Thursday, Oct.
22, noon, with Linda Roth, senior curator of
decorative arts, free with museum admission,
meet by the museum shop
• Film: “The Kindergarten Teacher” Thursday
and Friday, Oct. 22 and 23 at 7 p.m. and Sunday,
Oct. 25 at 2 p.m., $9/$8/$7
• Gallery Talk: “Guise & Dolls” Thursday, Oct.
29, noon, with curator Patricia Hickson, followed
by a 1 p.m. screening of the film “Superstar:
The Life and Times of Andy Warhol” with an
additional screening Nov. 1 at 4 p.m.; “Warhol
& Mapplethorpe: Guise & Dolls,” first major
exhibition to pair the work of the two artists, thru
Jan. 24, 2016
• “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Capital
Classics Oct. 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m., tickets
$20/$15, 860-247-0998
Linda Kimball Friday, Oct. 23, 7 p.m., at Lost
Everything for Your Home
860-953-2200
7 CODY STREET • WEST HARTFORD, CT
22
The
Valley Press
MageeCompanies.com
October 22, 2015
At Maple Tree Café, 781 Hopmeadow St.,
Simsbury, live music at 9 p.m., cover charge,
860-651-1297: Friday, Oct. 23, Cartells, and
Saturday, Oct. 24, Poor Gordon
Suffield Players’ “The Mousetrap” final
performances Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and
24 at 8 p.m. in Mapleton Hall in Suffield, tickets
$19, reservations at 860-668-0837 or www.
suffieldplayers.org
At the Mark Twain House & Museum,
351 Farmington Ave., Hartford, 860-280-3130:
• Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours Friday and
Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, and Thursday and
Friday, Oct. 29 and 30, stepping off at 6, 7, 8 and
9 p.m., tickets $22/$17/$15 at 860-247-0998
• “Back to the Eighties” Masquerade Dance
Party!” Saturday, Oct. 24, 7-11 p.m., tickets
$25/$20, call 860-247-0998 – a time travelthemed event that mashes up an 1890’s
masquerade ball with a 1980’s dance party, cash
bar and refreshments, DJ Whitney Bobby
• “TV News – The Story Behind the Stories” with
Dan Kain Tuesday, Oct. 27, 5:30 p.m. reception,
6:15 p.m. talk, free, reservations recommended
at 860-280-3130
• “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” in the style
of an old-time radio play by Capital Classics
Oct. 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m., tickets $20/$15 at
860-247-0998
• Mark My Words V…In a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Friday, Nov. 6, 7 p.m., Webster Museum Center,
preceded by The Imperial Blood Drive from noon5 p.m. at Immanuel Congregational Church,
advance tickets $35 thru Nov. 1, $45 after
• Mark Twain House & Museum 2015 Gala Nov.
14, more info and tickets at 860-280-3112
“Rocky Horror Show” by Phoenix Theater
Company Fridays and Saturdays, Oct. 23, 24,
30 and 31 at 8 p.m., at Trinity-on-Main, 69 Main
St., New Britain, with midnight shows Saturdays,
Oct. 24 and 31, tickets $22 in advance, $24 at the
door, 860-229-2072 or www.phoenixtheater.us
Fall Home Show Friday-Sunday, Oct. 23-25, in
Hall A of the Convention Center, 100 Columbus
Blvd., Hartford, Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 10
a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $10/$8/$5
– Wayne Carini of “Chasing Classic Cars” and
supporter of Autism Speaks, Kevin O’Connor
from “This Old House”
Shemekia Copeland at Bridge Street Live, 41
Bridge St., Collinsville: Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m.
John McCutcheon Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 p.m.,
at the Sounding Board Coffeehouse at The
Universalist Church of West Hartford, 433 Fern St.,
West Hartford, $22/$20/$12/$10, reservations@
sounding boardcoffeehose.org, or by calling
860-770-3001
The Spy Who Loved Me with special guest
Sheena Easton Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m., at
The Bushnell, Hartford, tickets starting at $19,
860-987-5900, HSO Pops! Series
Hartt School events at the University of
Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford,
unless otherwise noted:
• Hartt’s Got Talent Saturday, Oct. 24, 6 p.m.,
Hartford Marriott Downtown, harttgala@
hartford.edu
• Performance 20/20 Sunday, Oct. 25, 2-3:30
p.m., Berkman Recital Hall
• Hammerklavier Thursday, Oct. 29, 8-9:30 p.m.,
Berkman Recital Hall
At the Warner Theatre, 68 Main St., Torrington,
860-489-7180, warnertheatre:
• Warner Music Fest 2015 Saturday, Oct. 24,
7 p.m., tickets $15 and $10 – with five bands:
Stache, The Loft, Western Lands Trio, Ian
Campbell and Switch Factory
• Amy Black & Sarah Borges with The Muscle
Shoals Revue Oct. 30, 8 p.m., tickets $25
Trinity College hosting Ann Goldstein of The
New Yorker and editor and translator of “The
Complete Works of Primo” Monday, Oct. 26,
4:15 p.m., at McCook Auditorium, Trinity College,
300 Summit St., Hartford, free and open to the
public – lecture on Primo Levi
“Best in Show” exhibition celebrating man’s
best friend, the dog, in the Drezner Visitors
Gallery at the Farmington Valley Arts Association,
25 Arts Center Lane, Avon, thru Saturday, Oct.
24, gallery open Wednesday-Saturday, noon-4
p.m.
Connecticut Cabaret Theatre auditions for
the musical “The Cardigans,” auditions by
appt. only, seeking men 18-35, contact 860829-1248
The Underground Gallery, 122 Main St.,
Collinsville, paintings and drawings by Nancy
Greco opening Oct. 30, 6-9 p.m., thru Nov. 14
Paranormal investigation at Butler-McCook
House & Garden with the G.O.N.E.R.S. Friday,
Oct. 30, 6-8 p.m., with medium Karen Holli is,
admission $15/$10, reservations at 860-2478996, ext. 14
Theater Guild of Simsbury’s “The King and
I” Nov. 14, 19 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov.
15 and 22 at 2 p.m., in the Simsbury High
School auditorium, 34 West Street, Simsbury,
advance tickets $21/$18, at the door $24/$18,
theatreguildsimsbury.org
PRESS Sports
Picture perfect goal
Photos by David Heuschkel
The goal by Alyssa Wrabel (27) is worth framing as the Lewis Mills
sophomore goes up to one-time a ball from Ashley Doyle into the net
against Wamogo Oct. 15 in Burlington.
As leaves change color, Lewis Mills girls make a switch
David Heuschkel
Sports Editor
The vehicles continued to
zip by on Route 4, there’s robust
fall colors this time of the year, as
the Lewis Mills girls soccer team
forge ahead without their best
player and with a lopsided loss
in its rearview mirror.
The Spartans remain on
a mission, just as it says on the
back of their shirts, to win another Berkshire League crown and
make a strong run for a state title.
Both became more of a challenge
on a day the calendar flipped.
On Oct. 1, Bryant-bound
senior Ailene Berry sustained a
non-contact knee injury in practice
that would sideline the all-state
striker for the remainder of the
season. The next day, Mills suffered
one of the worst defeats in Dennis
Fowler’s 11 years as coach by getting thumped 4-0 by Housatonic
in a match between the top two
teams in the Berkshire League.
The loss snapped a 45-game
regular season winning streak
by the Spartans dating back to
2012. Fowler could not recall his
team ever allowing four goals to
a Berkshire League opponent.
Furthermore, prior to the 4-0
loss to Housy, Mills had beaten
the Mountaineers 13 straight
times with four goals as the average margin of victory.
Putting a rare loss behind
them wasn’t difficult for Mills.
The Spartans responded with a
5-1 win over Northwestern, handing the Highlanders just their second loss (5-2-1) at that point.
in the Class M state tournament.
“It’s a work in progress,”
Fowler said after a 4-0 win over
Wamogo Oct. 15, two days after
the Spartans beat Litchfield 2-0
in their first game in the 4-4-2
formation. “I think a lot of it’s
mental, too. You’re missing your
leader up top. We just miss her
energy and her creativeness. Because she was so darn fast, we
always had the ball. She always
“If we’re going to win against a really good
team, we’ve got to change the way we play.”
–Lewis Mill coach Dennis Fowler
“We played great against
them,” Fowler said. “It was the
first game after Housy. We were
at home and we really pumped
them up. It was like, ‘Hey, let’s
show everybody we can still beat
a good team.’ ”
Overcoming the loss of Berry was more challenging. Fowler
made an adjustment, changing
the team’s formation from 3-4-3
to 4-4-2. He felt having an extra
player in the back third is necessary for the rematch against
Housy Nov. 3 and when the
Spartans see better competition
had the ball. She made people
around her really better.”
Berry had 21 goals and 18 assists as a junior last fall. With five
goals and eight assists in the first
six games this season, she was on
a similar pace. Her athleticism
will also be missed. Last spring,
Berry was a Berkshire League
track & field champion in the 300
hurdles and long jump.
With Berry out, sophomore
forwards Chloe Waldron and Alyssa Wrabel will be in the front
with junior Julia Robillard coming
off the bench. Fowler shored up
the back third by moving Maddie
Murdick, an all-state midfielder
last year, to defense along with
fellow seniors Elli Spring, Ashley
Doyle and Taylor LeBel.
“My defense is rock solid,”
Fowler said. “If we’re going to win
against a really good team, we’ve
got to change the way we play.”
Mills (10-1) was No. 3 in the
CIAC Class M playoff rankings
behind Woodland (10-0-1) and
Northwest Catholic (11-1). Prior
to its loss against Housatonic, the
Spartans were No. 1 in the Class
M/S state poll. That spot is now
occupied by Northwest Catholic,
which has only lost to Glastonbury,
the top team in the Class LL/L poll.
“We’ve had to change and
adapt to make sure that we still not
only win the league title, but get as
deep as we can [in the Class M state
tournament],” Fowler said. “We’re
transitioning right now, and that’s
difficult for a team to do this late.
… We lost some good players [to
graduation], sure. But at Mills you
never rebuild; you just fill in. And
with eight seniors back, we were on
a mission to get to the state finals.
We still are. I still think this team is
capable of a deep run.”
Gray
Matters
By Scott Gray
Sitting across a table from West Hartford resident Jeff Lee
you see his father. The eyes, the nose, the way his lips
purse when he talks, all reminiscent of legendary Hartford
Courant sports editor and columnist Bill Lee, one of the
greatest newspaper figures in Connecticut history.
Many valuable lessons of my early career were imparted by Bill Lee, with whom I established a special
relationship. Over lunch last week at the Manchester
Country Club, Jeff filled me in on some things about his
father I didn’t know. Like me, like my great broadcasting
mentor, Bob Steele, like Lee’s successor at the Courant,
Owen Canfield, Bill didn’t graduate from college. Some
of the greatest sports prose ever was pure and honest in
its roots. Bill Lee had a gift and the wisdom to channel it.
Bill never had a driver’s license, a circumstance
that led Jeff, in the role of chauffer, to experience close
encounters with some of the greatest figures in sports
history - Willie Pep, Joe DiMaggio, Casey Stengel, Muhammad Ali from whom he ran a quote from the locker
room to the press table, where his father turned it into
the lead in his story and the centerpiece of his column.
Timing, they say, is everything, but more than luck
goes into being in the right place at the right time. If
you’re not ready to seize the moment, timing means
nothing. The timing for my appearance on the Connecticut sports scene couldn’t have been more perfect.
In my first decade, the Whalers came to Hartford as a
WHA team, then were incorporated into the NHL. When
UConn moved from the Yankee Conference to the Big
East, Hartford officially became a major league market.
It was also a decade of incredible growth for me, thanks
in great part to Bill Lee.
That January night in 1975 that the Whalers played
their first game at the Civic Center, I had the pleasure
of entering the facility with Bill. I stood alongside him
in the press box as he took in the breathtaking expanse
of his personal 10,506-seat dream come true, the one
he’d lobbied for so long and hard. Tears welled in his
eyes. I never forgot that moment, remembering it most
vividly the day UConn played its first football game at
Rentschler Field.
I remember the night the great Bobby Hull made his
first appearance in Hartford with the Winnipeg Jets. The
crowd cheered his every move. They couldn’t get enough
of him and he couldn’t get enough of them. Hull was
worth every penny the WHA paid him to establish their
credibility. After the game, fans rimmed the boards around
the rink, holding programs, souvenirs, any scrap of paper
they could find, over the glass, hoping for an autograph.
While a small crowd of reporters waited in front of Hull’s
dressing stall in the visitors locker room, he spent 45
minutes filling every request. When he finally reached the
locker room, there were only three or four reporters left,
the rest having rushed off to deal with deadlines.
“There’s a bunch of kids in wheelchairs outside,”
Hull said, poking his head into the dressing room as he
scooped up a bunch of hockey sticks. “I want to sign
some sticks for them. I’ll be right back to answer all your
questions.”
When he returned 15 minutes later, Lee and I were
the only reporters left. For 20 minutes he engaged us in
entertaining conversation, making our jobs much easier
than they usually were.
“My only regret,” I said to Bill as we exited the room,
“is there weren’t a quarter of a million people looking
over our shoulders in there.”
“Don’t ever underestimate yourself again,” said the
great scribe as we entered the hallway, “that’s where
you and I come in.”
It may have been the night a blow from Marlon Starling silenced Charlie Newell in the Exhibition Hall at the
Civic Center, sitting beside Lee at ringside. During the first
round, I looked down to make an entry in my note book.
“Never take your eyes off the fighters”, Lee said to
me, “you’ll miss the knockout punch.”
I knew immediately he wasn’t just talking about boxing.
To this day I wait until the round’s over to make my notes.
It all flushed over me sitting across the table from
Jeff, along with an appreciation for some small measure
of wisdom that guided me to take advantage of the opportunity I had to learn from men like Bill Lee and Bob
Steele, who so generously tutored me. The education of
a young sportscaster is sure to come up on December
8, when I address West Hartford’s “Old Guard,” a regular
Tuesday gathering of Jeff Lee and a hundred or so of his
closest friends. I hope I don’t bore him too much with
stories of his dad.
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
23
Avon looking to finish strong
By David Heuschkel
Sports Editor
After defeating Windsor in a Central
Connecticut Conference match last week,
Avon High girls soccer coach Jim Murray
locked up the balls, corner flags and other
equipment in a mental storage bin at Fisher
Meadows.
Normally at this time of the year, the Falcons have already secured a berth in the state
tournament. Not this year, though. Not yet.
Avon had a 4-4-2 record after a 4-0 victory over Windsor Oct. 14, and the Falcons
were closer to the bottom of the Class L playoff rankings than the top. Teams need to win
40 percent of their games. For Avon, anything
less than 6-8-2 won’t do it.
The Falcons have never missed the state
tournament under Murray, who is in his 30th
season. He hasn’t lowered his expectations,
but his optimism is a bit tempered because
the competition in the CCC is considerably
better than it was in the NCCC.
Being optimistic comes naturally to a
coach who has won more than 400 games
and five state championships. Murray’s
teams have advanced to the Class L final five
of the last six years.
Murray was a longtime advocate of playing in the CCC long before Avon became a
member of the conference this fall. However, the timing could have been better for his
team. Switching from the NCCC to the CCC
came after Murray lost his largest senior class
– 18 players graduated, including most of the
goal scorers.
With no quality wins and four quality
opponents remaining, it’s conceivable that
Avon could finish the regular season with a
sub-.500 record for the first time ever. It’s all
but guaranteed the Falcons will not host a
state tournament match for the first time in
11 years.
And, yet, Avon, despite having a lower-than-usual seed, is not a team that any
coach of a Class L team will feel comfortable
seeing in the early rounds next month. The
first round of the tournament is scheduled
Nov. 9.
Murray said this season is reminiscent
of one back in the 1990s when his team teetered around .500 and he challenged them to
make the tournament.
“This team is similar,” he said. “We’re
a very good team. We possess the ball well.
It’s that final third we’ve got to clean up and
score.”
Avon has scored a total of 19 goals in its
four wins over Bulkeley (twice), Weaver and
Windsor. Not surprisingly, those three opponents had a combined 4-28-1 record. In the
other six games, the Falcons found the back
of the net just four times. The 23 goals is nearly half as many as Avon had after 10 games a
year ago (45) in its final season in the NCCC.
Murray said his team was thoroughly
outplayed in back-to-back losses to Glastonbury and Northwest Catholic, the top-ranked
teams in the Class LL/L and Class M/S state
polls, respectively. But in a 1-1 tie with Windsor the first week of the season, Avon outshot
Photo by David Heuschkel
Avon junior Meghan McKenna (30) didn’t score a goal on this shot, but she found the back of
the net in the first half a 4-0 win over Windsor Oct. 14 at Fisher Meadows.
the Warriors 34-4 and did everything except
outscore them.
“We had 14 offsides the last game. With
the [34] shots, we still lost 14 opportunities to
offsides,” Murray said.
In the rematch last week, the shots were
again lopsided – Avon had a 25-3 advantage –
and the Falcons were offside six times in the
first half. At halftime, Murray told his players
anyone who is offside is coming out of the
game.
“We had two the second half, so we
cleaned that up,” he said.
Murray would have liked to see his team
do a better job finishing. Megan McKenna
and Kaleigh Sherman scored first-half goals.
In the second half, Taylor Lisevick got behind
the defense and beat Windsor goalie Cassidee McDonnell with a low shot inside the
far post to make it 3-0 with 18 ½ minutes left.
Jillian Jurczyszak scored in the closing seconds from Molly Milligan.
“We’re not a scoring machine like we
used to be. Everybody’s got to pitch in and
help out with the scores. We’re not expecting
one person to do it, but it’s got to be a team
effort,” Murray said. “No matter how well we
play defensively, if we’re not scoring we’re in
trouble. We really got to find people who can
find the back of the net.”
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The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
Good late tests for Lewis Mills field hockey team
Caroline Smith (Simsbury 14), a
sophomore on the Johns Hopkins
University women’s cross country
team, placed sixth at the Disney
Cross Country Classic in Orlando
Oct. 10. She finished the 5K course
in 18:01.80, helping the Blue Jays
to a first-place finish at the meet. …
Dominique Papa (Farmington ’12),
a senior on the Colby-Sawyer College
women’s soccer team, scored a goal
Caroline Smith
in a 2-0 victory over UMass Boston
Oct. 14. Papa was third on the team in scoring with 11 points (four
goals and three assists) in helping the Chargers to a 10-2-2 record.
… Casey Hunt (Granby Memorial
’15), a freshman on the Worcester
Polytechnic Institute volleyball
team, is off to a stellar start to her
collegiate career. Hunt, an outside
hitter, leads the team with 214 kills
(3.06 per set) to help the Engineers
to a 16-5 record. Burlington’s
Kat Hulock (Lewis Mills ’14), a
sophomore on WPI volleyball, had
Casey Hunt
94 kills. …Simsbury resident John
Pappas (Westminster ’14) is a sophomore goalkeeper on the Colby
College men’s soccer team. Also at Colby, Sarah Lane-Reticker (Avon ’12) is a senior on the
women’s crew team. She rows from
the third position in the first varsity
boat. On Oct. 4, she helped the first
varsity boat place fifth out of 16
entrants in the Textile River Regatta in
Lowell, Mass. …Mia Olsen (Granby
Memorial ’13), a junior midfielder on
the Trinity College field hockey team,
has a team-leading seven assists in
12 games with the Bantams (6-6).
Kat Hurlock
Teammate Olivia Johnson (Granby
Memorial’15), a freshman, has appeared as a forward in all 12
matches this season. … Farmington resident Jack Katkavich
(Phillips Academy ’13), a junior on the
Wesleyan University men’s soccer
team, is the starting goalkeeper for the
Cardinals. He made six saves in a 0-0
draw against Tufts Sept. 29. After 10
matches, the Cardinals were 6-3-1.
College corner is a periodic feature that
follows the collegiate athletic careers of
former high school students from Farmington Valley towns. Please email names
Jack Katkavich
of individuals along with their college
and sport to staff writer Ted Glanzer at tglanzer@turleyct.com.
By David Heuschkel
Sports Editor
If the last two weeks of
the regular season doesn’t
get the Lewis Mills field
hockey team ready to defend its state championship,
nothing will.
This week alone is good
preparation from competitive and conditioning standpoints. The Spartans were
scheduled to play games on
three consecutive days, the
middle one a makeup game
against Shepaug Valley,
which beat Mills in overtime
earlier this season.
Mills coach Joanne Neuhausser expected her team to
have its hands full the previous day against Thomaston.
The Golden Bears, which
handed the Spartans their
only other loss this fall, were
unbeaten and at the top of the
CIAC Class S playoff rankings.
After its highly anticipated rematches with Shepaug
and Thomaston, Mills then
had to play Northwestern
Oct. 22. The following week
figures to also be challenging
with games against Berkshire
League rival Nonnewaug and
nonconference
opponent
Pomperaug, a program with
nine state titles. The Spartans
then wrap up the regular season Nov. 4 at Suffield.
“I’m excited that our
last few games are on turf,”
Neuhausser said, referring
to the road matches against
Pomperaug and Suffield.
“Turf is such a different
game and it will get us ready
for tournament time.”
A year ago at this time,
Mills was undefeated and
Neuhausser was a spectator at the games. Her oldest
daughter Karlie was among
the five senior starters on
Photo by David Heuschkel
Lewis Mills senior Anna Farrey reaches to back-hand a ball on net in the second half of a
Berkshire League game against Litchfield.
the team that went 19-0 and
beat Granby 3-0 in the Class S
final. Mom saw all 19 games.
“I didn’t miss a game.
I saw every game for four
years – home and away,” said
Neuhausser, whose youngest
daughter, Val, is a sophomore
on the high school team. “It’s
in my blood.”
Neuhausser, who played
on a national championship
team at UConn in 1981, has
run the recreational field
hockey program in Burlington for the past few years. So,
she’s coached the freshmen,
sophomores and juniors at
some point prior to replacing
Maggie Tieman as the high
school coach this fall.
“Maggie and I have a
great relationship,” Neuhausser said after a 5-0 win over
Litchfield last week. “Even
coaching in the rec league, I
would come to her practices
and say, ‘Give me some drills.
What are you doing?’ She always invited me to come to
the preseason.”
Tieman, who became
field hockey coach at Mills in
2001, has been an NCAA basketball official for six years.
Last June, she was hired by
the Empire 8 Conference to
be the coordinator of field
hockey officials.
The players that formed
the nucleus of Tieman’s last
team all graduated. Just from
watching the games, Neuhausser had a good idea
which players could fill those
spots. She moved senior Julia
Arel from left wing to offensive mid. Emma Kryzanski,
a right back last year, moved
into the center of the field.
Other players who switched
positions have also accepted
their new roles.
Neuhausser
moved
Katherine Duba to right wing
and she scored a couple of
goals in the win over Litchfield Oct. 15. Her second one
was a gorgeous redirection
that gave Mills a 3-0 lead midway through the second half.
“That right wing, I’ve
been struggling with the first
part of the season trying to
find the right person, and
I think we found her,” Neuhausser said. “The last few
games we’ve had her start
there and she’s just done a
tremendous job. She’s got a
good stick and she’s fast.”
The win over Litchfield
was the sixth in a row for Mills
(8-1-0-1) following a 2-1 loss
to Thomaston Sept. 22. The
Spartans have outscored the
opposition 25-2 in that stretch.
“I think we’re peaking at
the right time,” Neuhausser
said. “We have a lot of strong
players. They have a lot of
heart. This team doesn’t give
up. They really dig deep when
asked, when they need to.”
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The
Valley Press
25
Storm Chasers win cup
Mills volleyball ‘digs pink’
Athletes of the Week
Sarah Soja
Cross Country
Photo and information submitted
The Simsbury Storm Chasers won the Cape Cod Harvest Cup
tournament Oct. 10-11 in Barnstable, Mass. The U14 soccer team went 3-0-1 in the premier level bracket, beating
the Easton (Mass.) Tigers 4-1 in the final. Front row, left
to right: Lily Connelly, Victoria Jainchill, Sadie Gould, Caela
Segar, Izzy Herbek, Dagny Edwards; Back row: Ally Whaley, Abby Youmans, Grace Melanson, Kathryn Rutledge, Julia
Rooney, Ellie Masters, Jenna Salinardi, Samantha Dupree,
Rachel Sullivan, Abby Epstein, and Riley Peterson.
Submitted photo
The Lewis Mills girls volleyball team raised more than
$300 for the Pink Rose Foundation in its Dig Pink game
against Gilbert Oct. 13. Haley DeJoseph had 10 service
aces, eight kills and six digs to lead the Spartans to a
3-1 win (25-14, 20-25, 25-20, 25-20). Emily Hamel had
eight kills and 10 digs. Samira Abdelrehim had four kills
and five blocks.
Granby sole owner of NCCC field hockey crown
Ted Glanzer
Staff Writer
The Granby Memorial High field hockey team
clinched another North Central Connecticut Conference
championship with a quintessential 2-0 victory over
Canton in Granby Oct. 15.
The Bears (8-0-1 NCCC,
10-1-1 overall) did what they
do best: sent wave after wave
of attackers into the offensive
end, scored early and built on
the lead, then stifled any attempt at a comeback with a
smothering defense.
It was Granby’s first outright conference title since
2010. The Bears shared the
crown with Avon, now in the
CCC, last fall.
Both of Canton’s conference losses were to Granby.
A victory by Canton (6-2-1
NCCC, 7-2-2 overall) would
have tightened things at the
top of the six-team NCCC.
Granby’s Sam Bates
opened the scoring with
17:29 left in the first half with
a goal off a penalty corner.
Abby Phillips doubled Granby’s advantage with just 26
seconds left in the first half
when she poked a loose ball
into the net off a penalty corner to make it 2-0.
As two indicators of its
dominance, Granby went into
intermission with a 7-1 advantage in penalty corners and led
Canton 10-1 in shots taken.
Canton goalkeeper Natalie Nardello (15 saves) kept
it a two-goal game despite
the Bears continually applying pressure. Nardello saved
a penalty stroke off the stick
of Rachel Domanico in the
second half.
“We were able to play
nine forward, so we don’t
get tired,” Granby coach Sandy Wickman Mason said.
“There’s not a drop in the level of play. That’s been a great
feeling for all the kids.”
The Bears’ defense,
which recorded their ninth
shutout in 12 games and
second over Canton, applied
pressure in the second half.
Canton took four penalty corners to Granby’s two in the
final 30 minutes and forced
Granby goalkeeper Hannah
Crose to make four saves.
Bates, Phillips and Victoria Myers keyed on Canton’s Grace Giancola, whose
menacing runs on the counterattack threatened Granby’s shutout.
“She’s got some unbelievable speed and the skills
to go with it,” said Wickman
Mason. “We did a nice job
stopping her when she got
the ball.”
Still, Canton threatened
several times, including once
in the first half when Crose
was called on to clear the
ball from the line at the
10:02 mark.
But
the
Warriors
couldn’t break through a defense that has allowed just
four goals in 12 games. Canton coach Margaret Bristol
credited Giancola for her play.
“She had a great game;
she got pushed around a
lot,” Bristol said. “She per-
severed through that and
played smart.”
But Bristol noted that
for Canton to join the conference elite, it needed to
stand up to Granby.
“We need to play with
confidence and rise to the
level of play,” she said.
Following its final conference game against Stafford Oct. 20, Granby wraps
up the regular season with
non-conference matches
against Joel Barlow, Farmington and South Windsor. The Bears were ranked
fourth in the CIAC Class S
playoff rankings heading
into this week.
Sarah Soja
Simsbury
Also plays: Indoor and
outdoor track & field
Key to success: “Never
give up.”
Honors: National Honors
Society, All-CCC, All-Academic
One word that describes me as an athlete:
Determined
Favorite quote: “Life
begins at the end of your
comfort zone.” – author
Neale Donald Walsch
Pre-meet superstition:
Wear my lucky socks
Best music to run to: Country
Hidden talent: “I can quote all of the Harry Potter movies verbatim.”
Favorite movie: “McFarland, USA”
TV show character who cracks me up: Gabi from “Young & Hungry”
Dream job: Physician assistant
Dream car: Orange Jeep Wrangler
My time machine is set to…: “2050 to see how things are turning out
in the future.”
My three dinner guests would be: Paul Wesley, Vergil, Abraham Lincoln
Michael Popolizio
Football
Also plays: Lacrosse
Keys to success: “Preparation, lots of film.”
Honors: Team offensive MVP
One word that describes
me as an athlete: Dedicated
Favorite quote: “It ain’t
about how hard you hit. It’s
about how hard you can
get hit and keep moving
forward.” – Rocky Balboa
Pre-game ritual: Team
prayer
Hidden talent: Juggle
Michael Popolizio Favorite snack: Ranch
sunflower seed
Farmington
Favorite movie: “Invincible”
Famous person I met: Drag racing legend Don “Big Daddy” Garlits
My must-see TV show: Marvel’s “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D”
Dream job: Physical therapist
Dream car: 1970 Dodge Challenger Hemi
My time machine is set to…: “400 BC. It would be amazing to
see the height of the Greek empire.”
My three dinner guests would be: Abe Lincoln, Warren Buffett
and Sylvester Stallone
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The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
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Granby girls overcome slow start
By David Heuschkel
Sports Editor
The Granby Memorial
girls soccer team began the
season with four straight
losses, each defeat seemingly more frustrating than the
previous one. Following one
of them, coach Edward Dzielak remembers a parent in
the parking lot telling him it
was OK.
That’s
not what
Dzielak
Gabriella Bonetti
wanted to
hear because it was not fine
with
him.
The last time
Granby had
lost four in a row
was in 2006, the last
year the Bears failed
to qualify for the state
tournament.
Following a tie in the
fifth game, Granby strung
together five straight wins.
Now that was OK with Dzielak. Following back-to-back
wins over Bolton and Stafford, he’s convinced the team
is finally starting to gel.
Senior Hannah Davin
scored two goals and freshman Lucy Jacobs had a goal
Photos by
David Heuschkel
and assist in
a 4-0 win over
Stafford Oct. 13.
It was the fourth
straight shutout
by the Bears (5-4-1).
“The last two
matches
everyone
showed up,” Dzielak said
afterward.
Dzielak was
further delighted to
hear his players
acknowledge
that the hard
work is starting to
pay off.
“They believe in
what we’re doing. It
makes me feel
great,” he said.
Dzielak
was
giddy to see
his three
Sydnie Dorman
freshmen
on the roster pushing the
upperclassmen. Two seniors
got pushed out of their starting positions by freshmen
Sydnie Dorman and Gabriella Bonetti. Jacobs, the other
starting freshman, has played
as an outside midfielder and
had scored 29 goals in
entry. And in a 1-1
its first 10 games.
tie with Enfield,
A 3-0 loss to
three shots by the
NCCC power
Bears hit
Suffield in the
the post.
season opener
The
was the only
2-0 win over
game in which
Bolton Oct. 9 was
the Bears failed
the first time all
to score.
season the Bears
“We got shocked
played more than
at Suffield. It was 0-0 at
40 minutes, Dzhalf,” Dzielak said. “We
ielak said.
came out dead flat [in
“We came
the second half].”
out ready to play.
In a 4-1 loss to
It’s the second time
Ellington three days
we came out
later, Granby came out
[ready],” he said.
Lucy Jacobs
flat in the first half and
“The energy, you
trailed by three goals after 11 could see it in the kids’ eyes.
minutes. This was followed … I just think they don’t like
with consecutive 3-2 losses losing. They’ve been trainto East Windsor and Cov- ing so hard. I keep on tellentry. Dzielak said his team ing them, ‘We’re pushing it,
outshot East Windsor 35-5 two hours every day, and it’s
and blew a 2-0 lead to Cov- starting to pay off.’ ”
forward.
With just six
seniors and
two juniors
on the varsity roster,
Granby is a
young team.
And with the Granby
Rovers youth program
developing another
strong wave of talented eighth graders, the
next couple of years
look promising.
Last
year,
Granby scored 30
goals and finished
7-6-4. A 2-0 loss to Rocky Hill
in the first round of the Class
M state tournament was the
seventh time the Bears were
shut out. In four other games
they scored one goal.
Following the win over
Stafford last week, Granby
Simsbury boys soccer team draws it up
By Matt Monitto
Correspondent
The Simsbury boys soccer
team has had an up-and-down
season under first-year head
coach Kevin McKenna. Things
leveled off a bit last week as the
Trojans played back-to-back
ties against Southington and
Conard.
A scoreless draw with
Southington avenged a 1-0 loss
to the Blue Knights in September. A 1-1 tie with Conard Oct.
16 was a hard-fought rematch
between the Trojans and Chieftains at McKee Stadium in
West Hartford.
Simsbury (6-4-2) and
Conard (5-6-1) combined for
13 shots on goal in 90 min-
utes, the last 10 in overtime.
When Simsbury beat
Conard 2-1 in the first match
between the teams Oct. 2, it
was the 10th one-goal game
between the teams since they
started playing twice a year in
2009.
“They’re always tough
matches when Simsbury and
Conard play and tonight was
no different,” Conard assistant
coach Steve Bassi said. “I think
these were two teams that were
both fighting hard. They’re two
evenly-matched teams, two
schools that have had good success for the past few years.”
Simsbury began the season with three straight wins,
then lost three in a row, then
won three straight. Follow-
ing a loss to Glastonbury, the
Trojans had a scoreless draw
with Southington Oct. 13.
Three nights later, Simsbury fell behind Conard early in the second half when
Jordan Scrimgeour gave the
Chieftains a 1-0 lead.
With 6 ½ minutes remaining in regulation, the Trojans got the equalizer when
Chris Rurka headed a cross
into the top right corner.
“We showed a lot of perseverance and a lot of character coming back from 1-0,”
McKenna said.
Both teams had opportunities in overtime, but neither
was able to score in the extra
10 minutes. For the game,
Simsbury outshot Conard 10-
Kennedy leads Mills to win
6. Simsbury goalkeeper Gabe
Towles had seven saves, while
the Chieftains’ Patrick Corcoran had six.
“I think we know that we
can play a good 80 minutes of
soccer, so we reinforced that,”
McKenna said. “I thought it
was very constructive for our
kids to be in a position of being down 1-0 and then coming
back and scoring the tying
goal, carrying the play in the
second half and in overtime.”
Lewis Mills senior Collin Kennedy rushed for 165 yards
and two touchdowns to lead the Spartans to a 20-12
win over Enfield in a Pequot League football game Oct.
16 in Enfield. Kennedy ripped off his longest run on the
first play from scrimmage in the third quarter, racing 58
yards for a touchdown, and the PAT by Hunter Cowger
made it 14-0. Later in the third, Kennedy scored on a 24yard run. Junior Michael Cicarelli gained 90 yards on 18
carries and scored the first touchdown for the Spartans
(2-3) from a yard out. Mills has a bye this weekend
and plays its next game Oct. 31 at home against Old
Saybrook/Westbrook (4-1).
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The
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27
ROBERTSON
from page 19
“Simsbury was different because Tolland was
a town manager form of government,” he said.
Robertson stayed in Simsbury until 2010,
when he took the job as Avon town manager.
“It’s a fantastic profession. It’s like I said,
there is such a broad range of issues that you’re
dealing with,” he said. “You can see the result of
your work immediately. It’s all very local, it’s all
very hands on.”
As far as which of those issues have been
the most challenging, the winter storm in October of 2011 came first to Robertson’s mind.
PROPOSAL
from page 17
more importantly, an increase in potential
customers for all businesses in Farmington,
especially those located in Unionville Center.”
Not everyone, however, supported the
project.
John Vibert said the proposal would
have a “disastrous” impact on two traffic
points in town: at the five-way intersection
at School Street and at Mill Street.
Vibert said that just one or two cars on
School Street can stack traffic on Route 4 for
those who are attempting to make a left on
South Street. Similarly, vehicles on Mill Street
can prevent those attempting to make a left
turn out of the River Edge shopping complex.
Commission Chairman Phil Dunn responded to Vibert by noting that the town
had hired its own traffic consultant, who said
that those issues wouldn’t happen if certain
measures were put in place.
Vibert answered that he believed the
traffic consultant was “mistaken.”
But Ted Lindquist, a member of UVIA
who was speaking only on his behalf, noted that residents complain about traffic in
Unionville and other parts of Farmington, yet
don’t do anything about it.
“One thing I hear about is traffic every
meeting,” Lindquist said, noting that he’s
“I don’t think much is going to top that,” he
said. “I hope I never see that again, where you’re
running an emergency shelter for a week, you’ve
got 90 percent of the town without power.”
The ongoing challenge that topped Robertson’s list was the budget.
“Brandon has served the people of Avon
with great skill and dedication, and we are
delighted that his professional peers have recognized what we have known all along,” Town
Council Chair Mark Zacchio and Board of Finance Chair Tom Harrison wrote in a joint
statement. “Congratulations to him and his
family.”
been a member of four traffic committees,
each of which came up with various plans
proposed to mitigate the traffic issue, each of
which was either voted down or died on the
vine. “We say we are concerned, but we continue as a community to do nothing about it.
… We said it’s our biggest concern, but whenever we try to solve it, we run away from that.
I wonder why that is. I wonder what the next
traffic study townwide will do, if a solution
will be accepted.”
In addition to the endorsements, the
project also appeared to be poised to clear
another hurdle, as the Board of Education
and school officials have entered discussions
with the developer over a proposed drop-off
road at Union School.
The original plan called for a road that
looped entirely around the school. A new
proposal, first presented by the school district, would call for a more modest drop-off
area in the back of the school. School board attorney Chris Smith said
the issue was a matter of safety – putting the
drop off area in the back of the school instead
of in front of it on School Street – and security.
Because the details were still being discussed, the Town Plan and Zoning Commission continued the hearing to its next meeting on Monday, Oct. 26.
SHEELY
from page 19
mile runs and now I run marathons,” one
former student wrote on Facebook. “I
couldn’t have asked for a better teacher.”
Kintner, who has three boys, the
oldest of whom is in eighth grade, said
her kids and a number of children in her
neighborhood paid tribute to their former teacher on Columbus Day by writing
their names and tracing their hands with
a marker on a rock. Then they gathered
together and shared stories about Sheely,
all without any adult intervention or guidance.
“It was their own thing,” Kintner said.
At the end of the tribute, the kids decided to do something active, which they
believed Sheely would have wanted. So,
they either ran or took scooters and did
laps around a cul de sac.
It was a fitting conclusion for a teacher who admonished not just the children,
but the parents, about the importance of
being outside and being active.
“The loss of Mr. Grant Sheely has
affected the entire Noah Wallace and
Farmington community,” Noah Wallace
Principal Kelly Sanders said in a message
to parents. “This week, as a community
we have come together to grieve, to support each other, and to share memories of
our beloved teacher. Students have spent
time writing cards to his family, making a
memory chain and making word clouds
in his memory. They have played some of
the favorite games they learned from Mr.
Sheely in the gym. Together, we shared
stories, many cried, and we began to heal.”
A remembrance service has been
scheduled at Farmington High School
Sunday, Oct. 25, from 2 to 3 p.m. Those
who are attending are encouraged to wear
a Noah Wallace T-shirt or blue and white,
the school’s colors.
“This will be our time to honor this
extraordinary man and to celebrate his
life,” Sanders said. first day of school by climbing a ladder
and, with mic in hand, tell jokes or call out
kids names and ask them how their summers were.
“He had a great joy of teaching and
was very enthusiastic,” Noah Wallace parent Beth Kintner, a member of the school’s
PTO, said in a telephone interview. “He
had a true gift. I’m glad my kids had the
chance to experience that.”
Like all great teachers, his impact
went well beyond the classroom.
Former student Tanya Adorno said
she decided to become a physical education teacher because of Sheely.
“Mr. Sheely was the perfect role model and teacher. Then, as I got older, my
mentor, colleague and friend,” she said.
“He was always happy, committed, loyal,
playful, true to kids. … By fourth grade, I
knew that I wanted to be a PE teacher and
serve students in the exact same way that
he served. I used to phrase it as ‘I want to
be someone’s Mr. Sheely.’ … Someone who
inspires kids, encourages and supports
everything about them, encourages risk
taking in trying new things, makes them
laugh and feel happy, and, mostly, let kids
be kids.”
There was no great magic behind
Sheely’s formula for being a great teacher
and mentor.
“He was always relentlessly happy,
positive and supportive,” Adorno said.
“He supported absolutely everything
about his students, whether they were 5
years old or 34 and pursuing something
new and great. Everything we did seemed
great to him.”
Others said that Sheely also had a
positive influence on their lives.
“I was just thinking about him the
other day while I was running and how
proud he’d be – I hated every step of those
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The
Valley Press
Help Wanted
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St. Matthew Lutheran Church in
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860-502-9527
GUTTER CLEANING
Gutter Cleaning
& Repairs
Insured
The Bushwackers
860-673-0760
HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
www.JPCountryBuilders.com
Old Fashioned Quality You Can Live With
J
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• Repairs • Replacement • Remodeling
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www.brannackelectric.com
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We do it all from the ground up!
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License #103858 & 103859 • Fully insured
Remodeling
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•Additions • Bath • Kitchens
LL
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In business for a blessed 29 years
(860) 582-0712 •Windows & Doors • Siding • Decks
Lic#0621710
Fax: (860)410-1190 or (860) 583-2183
PO Box 9656, Bristol, CT •
860-738-1502 John T.Yacawych 860-589-2267 Pat Collin
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Serving the Farmington Valley
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CT License #HIC0616677
HOME IMPROVEMENT
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LANDSCAPING
Home Improvement Contractor
So Many Amateurs . . . So Few Professionals!!
- COMPLETE MAINTENANCE & REPAIR • Siding
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Licensed & Insured
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LANDSCAPING
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• Pool Patios
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• Tree & Shrub
HYDROSEEDING
Planting
EROSION CONTROL
• Pruning
Based In & Serving The Farmington Valley • Walkways
For Over 18 Years
& Patios
Fully Licensed & Insured
• Walls & Steps
• Yard Drains
• Excavating
• Grading
cell: 860-250-2908
• Snowplowing
• Bucket Loading
30 The Valley Press October 22, 2015
Jim Barrett, Owner
CT. LIC. #602130 • Office (860) 796-0131
LANDSCAPING
Arboretum
BARRETT ENTERPRISES LLC
• Complete Basement Renovations
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FULLY INSURED
LANDSCAPING
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MASONRY
AD MASONRY
All type of Masonry Work
• Patios
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& Pavers
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for over 17 years!
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CT Lic# 602717
860-368-9486
Custom Vinyl & Wood Fencing
Tree Removals
Expert Tree Climbers & Crane Service
Land Clearing • Brush Clearing
Shrub Removal • Hardscaping
New Lawn Installations
MASONRY
Dennis Volpe
STONE MASON CONTRACTOR
860.225.3077
cell 860.839.8971
30 Years Experience • License #0630165 • New Britain, CT
SPECIALIZING IN:
Stone Wall Patios & Veneers • Patio Walls - Walk Ways
Chimney Rebuilding - Brick & Block Additions - Partition Walls
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Professional Service for 26 years
Proper prep & repair PROMPT quotes
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Call anytime 860-379-3685
PAINTING
Pro Quality
Painting & Home
Repair, LLC
860-201-7788
www.pqpainting4u.com
• High Quality interior/exterior painting
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The best decision you’ll ever make
PAINTING
Small renovations,
home repair, carpentry
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Complete prep.
T.C. Home Improvement
Cell 860-916-6287
Free
Estimates Home 860-523-4151
Serving the Valley since 1980
FULL CREW READY TO GO
EXTERIOR SPECIALS
Call Peter Sottile 860-658-7745
Insured - Interior & Exterior • CT Reg. #562798
RAINBOW
HYDRA-BLAST
WHY JUST POWERWASH
Specializing in high pressure
house detailing since 1988.
Fully Insured/Free Estimates
860-649-4953
860-402-7672
ROOFING
Call
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TREES
WINDOW WASHING
When It Comes To Tree Service
We Run Rings Around The Competition.
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TREE CARE OR TREE REMOVAL
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19
Call 860-658-4420 for a
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Interior & Exterior
Aluminum, Vinyl & Wood
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INTERIOR WORK: repair ceilings, walls, trim,
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EXTERIOR WORK: Small Masonry Repair
Free estimates. You can count on us for a precise & excellent job!
20 year experience. HIC #0575928
Call: Zenon 860-518-0630
Bodgan 860-518-2625
PAINTING
Power Washing,
Deck Staining, Light Carpentry
25 years of experience
in Farmington Valley
Reg #0562179
EPA
CERTIFIED
860-673-7280
Akcent
PAINTING
Painting and Remodeling
Specializing in:
INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING
• Powerwashing • Deck Staining
• Ceiling Repairs • Spraying
• Home Improvements & Renovations
and more
Over 15 years of experience
Call Chris @ 860 944 9100
www.AkcentRestoration.com
PLUMBING
ROOFING
ANDY WOTTON
PLUMBING &
HEATING, LLC
(860) 833-8153
Old fashion, honest, reliable
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All residential plumbing, repairs
done from leaky faucets to
snaking your main drain.
Lic #:HIC0607969
Call today and we will
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STUMP GRINDING
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PAINTING
PAINTING
VALLEY PAINTER BRECHUN
Interior & Exterior Painting
ROOFING
HARMONY
Ken (203) 558-4951
Simsbury’s Hometown Painting Company
POWER WASHING
PAINTING &
CEILING REPAIR
Free Estimates • Lic#0604514
860-417-9968
HIC#0629057
PAINTING
G. Kelly Painting
Fully Insured
Quality Workmanship
Andi’s Masonry
Buki -
Free Estimates • Fully Insured
203-232-0257 Lic. #0580443
860-810-4196
Stonewalls • Brick Walls
Bluestone • Steps
Fireplaces • Chimneys
Patios • Sidewalks
We can also do all
Masonry Repairs!
Satisfaction Guaranteed ~Free Estimates ~ Lic#0637095
PAINTING
Over 30 years experience
MASONRY
KC MASONRY
Stone Walls • Veneer Stone
Brick Walls • Blue Stone
Steps • Fireplaces
Chimneys • Patios • Sidewalks
Pavers • Retaining Walls
MASONRY
ALEX EUROPEAN MASON
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(SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO)
• Free estimates • Fully Insured & Bonded • Uniformed • Reliable
860-614-1173
Lic. #0639246
WINDOW WASHING
Lenco
Replacement Windows
Quality Since 1977
860-249-1558
www.fishwindowcleaning.com/3053
860-651-1720
Licensed & Insured
Ct Lic. #547581. Fully licensed & Insured.
Hann’s On Home Improvement
860-563-2001
WINDOWS
“Residential”
WINDOWS & DOORS
*Sales * Service * Installation*
860-747-8875
thewindowmanofct.com * thewindowmanofct@aol.com
*Bill Morrell Contractor * Ct Lic.#0509785 * Insured*
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press 31
It has been said that
"a picture is worth a
thousand words...”
I guess it’s true, with
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710 Hopmeadow St. • Drake Hill Mall
Simsbury, CT Phone: 860-658-2271
Fax: 860.658.2273
Pizza: 860-658-1210
32
The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
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Meet the candidates
SIMSBURY
First Selectman incumbent
Lisa Heavner, Democrat
It is an honor to represent you as
Simsbury’s First Selectman and
I ask for your support and vote
Nov. 3.
When I took over as First Selectman, my number one priority
was to keep taxes in check, and we
did. We lowered taxes for a second
year in a row, which is unprecedented in Simsbury’s history. I work hard every day to make sure Simsbury families get the maximum value for every dollar the town
spends to protect our quality of life - and we’re getting
it right.
Simsbury was recently ranked #9 in Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in America,” and the finance
experts at NerdWallet named Simsbury the #1 town
in Connecticut for young families. These recognitions
First Selectman challenger
Joe Coe, Petitioning candidate
I am asking Simsbury residents to
think “out of the box” and vote for
a petitioning candidate, Joan Coe,
on line 1D on the ballot, Nov. 3. As
a 40-year resident of the town with
a historical prospective of town
growth, I can continue the legacy
of keeping Simsbury a number one
community with fiscal responsibility. I believe that residents make a community, and many
volunteers have guided the town to a family friendly
community.
As the First Selectman I will provide a safe community, good roads, open space and collaborative efforts
within the town. I will continue to provide resources to
the Board of Education so they can maintain a stellar
educational experience to our children. I will provide
community programs that enhance the quality of life of
our residents.
Board of Selectman candidates
In order of ballot appearance
Garrett Delehanty, Democrat
My family and I moved to Simsbury in 1990. We bought in
Simsbury because of Simsbury
Farms, the town library and the
reputation of the Simsbury public school system. My daughter
started attending Central School.
I first became active in local politics in 1993, when I became a member of the
Republican Town Committee. I served from 1997
through 2009 as a member of the Simsbury Zoning
Commission.
In 2010, Rush Limbaugh and Dick Cheney were
the public faces of the party, and the Republican
Party, influenced by the Tea Party, lurched far to the
right. I was not comfortable being identified with
such a conservative party, so I became a Democrat.
Let me emphasize that local politics had absolutely
nothing to do with my action.
I believe that the paramount issue facing the
town is to maintain the excellent public school system. And we need to do so in a fiscally frugal and
responsible manner so our property taxes remain
manageable for our residents.
Simsbury does not enjoy a substantial commercial tax base. Almost 90 percent of the burden
of paying for Simsbury town services rests on the
shoulders of our residential property taxpayers. While
I would seek to attract responsible and appropriately
scaled commercial development, I do not want to
see Route 10 become a mirror of Route 44.
It is a significant challenge to preserve our town
and our schools at an acceptable price. Please note
your taxes have actually gone down two straight
years, under a Democratic first selectman.
Town politics should not be partisan. When lo-
didn’t happen by accident.
They are the result of the hard work of many volunteers, our Boards and Commissions and all of us working together to make Simsbury better.
As First Selectmen, I will keep making the smart
investments that deliver value: infrastructure and roads,
energy efficiency, public safety and regional cost sharing.
I will continue my record of support for our schools, our
seniors, open spaces and historical assets.
I will continue my economic development leadership to ensure that town government makes doing business in our community easy – so that we have sensible
development that grows our grand list, and invites quality businesses that contribute to Simsbury’s character
and our quality of life.
Building a strong tax base and keeping costs low
support our top-rated schools and keep our town a
place people want to live.
Thank you for your support and for believing in
me. I ask you to vote for me and my team of Chris Kelly,
Elaine Lang and Garrett Delehanty Nov. 3, so together
we can keep Simsbury moving forward.
The library has evolved into a community center,
and I envision more growth in community programs.
The recreation department will continue to provide programs to all ages. The Senior Center should be enhanced
within Eno Hall and continue to provide services to all
residents. I will assure residents that I will protect their
neighborhoods with compassionate zoning regulations
that assure residents that their homes are not impacted
adversely. As First Selectman I will protect your neighborhood from aggressive developers.
I believe that Simsbury has evolved into a community that should be guided by an experienced Town
Manager with long-term planning and cost-effective
budgets. We need one voice and responsibility in the
executive office under a Town Manager. Two people
should not be paid for one job.
I have a proven record of accomplishments and
have leadership and organizational skills. I have the ability to review complex issues and solve problems.
Joan Coe is the way to go for First Selectman. I am
asking for your vote Nov. 3.
cal matters become partisan, as when the Republican
majority on the Board of Selectmen directly and personally attacked Mary Glassman, we were fortunate
that Lisa Heavner was there to step into the void,
and so capably fill the shoes left empty when Mary
resigned.
There is a reason we were selected as one of the
top 10 towns in America. Let’s work to keep our town
the excellent place to live and to play that it is.
My name is Garrett Delehanty, and I ask for
your vote for Board of Selectmen.
Cheryl B. Cook, Republican
As a current member of the
Board of Selectmen, I am proud
to state that I was part of a board
that brought you two consecutive years of lower taxes and
grand list growth. We have been
able to do that while maintaining our nationally recognized
schools and our open space assets. In order to maintain this balance, we need to continue to promote
good government practices and efficiencies and
maintain our triple AAA bond rating. This is not an
easy task and not one to be taken lightly. As a homeowner and a parent of school-age children, I am keenly aware of the balancing act between the pressure to
lower taxes while continuing to provide exceptional
educational and recreational opportunities.
Both the Aging and Disability Commission
and the Community of Care provide opportunities
for me as a selectman to focus on issues that mean
a great deal to me. With my family I am a Volunteer
Puppy Raiser for the Fidelio Guide Dog Foundation.
It is not just the beauty of our space that makes
this town so exceptional, but the people who live
here. I am committed to pursuing the development
of the senior/community center to provide a safe,
accessible space for our all our citizens to come to-
The Valley Press asked all candidates to submit a statement of candidacy for inclusion
prior to the Nov. 3 election. In the following pages are responses from Simsbury, Canton,
Farmington and Avon. Granby and Burlington will appear next week.
Philip Purciello, Republican
to provide the quality of education parents of
Simsbury expect for their children, and reduce the
burden of taxes on homeowners, it is critical that
we identify every opportunity for cost savings.
As your first selectman, I will identify inefficiencies and redundancies and propose policy
and processes that provide taxpayers with the
greatest return on investment.
Innovation is critical to our future – if we
choose to not adapt government to this highspeed and highly technical environment around
us, our community will be out-paced and will outprice others in our area. I have a vision not only for today, but for
the future of this great town – a vision that will
ultimately lead to a long and enduring period of
prosperity.
Please come out to vote on Nov. 3 and
when you do, vote innovation. I am Philip Purciello and as First Selectman I will harness innovation
to make government serve you better, faster and
at less cost.
Robert Kalechman,
Petitioning candidate
Kalechman wants to be first selectman to clean
up and stop corruption that is all around us in the
5th Congressional District, which Simsbury is part
of. Recently, a member of a political party town
committee was committed to federal prison in
West Virginia by a United States federal judge for
election crimes against the citizens of Connecticut. This is not the first time election crimes have
occurred. The election staff of the speaker of the
Connecticut House of Representatives is running
for Congress once again; election crimes and a
judge once again sends people to prison. One
man from North Carolina was sentenced to five
years in prison. This corruption has continued to
this very day, with an ex-Connecticut governor
from Waterbury sentenced once again to federal
prison for election crime, which is under appeal.
This corruption has turned up again in the Connecticut State House by an election official in a
125,000 job over election law. Vote 1C and stop
corruption.
Hi, my name is Philip Purciello and I want to be your First
Selectman because I have an
innovative vision for what
will drive success in Simsbury
throughout the 21st century.
As a Master of Public
Administration, I am not only
running to be the chief executive of this town, but
the chief administrator as well.
As such, I will establish the office of the
First Selectman as the primary driver for economic development; I will make it a priority
to attract and retain the best people to serve
Simsbury; I will continue the preservation,
management, and enhancement of key environmental and visual sites throughout town. And I will provide our law enforcement officers with every resource necessary to keep this
town safe. In order to better Simsbury, continue
Robert
Kalechman
was born to Florence Carter
Kalechman and Col. Nathan
Kalechman, sealer of weight
and measures for the city of
Hartford. He attended the
University of Connecticut
and also took post-graduate
courses at the University of Hartford. He served
in the military, a combat war veteran awarded a
combat action ribbon, the Marine Corps good
conduct medal, China service, a Navy occupation
medal, National Defense one star, Korean service
one battle star, the United Nation medal, the
Korean War medal, the Republic of Korea President Unit citation, rifle sharpshooter, pistol sharpshooter, and a letter of appreciation from Kim
Dae Jun, the president of the Republic of Korea.
gether for socializing, recreation and learning. A space
that is available to residents of all ages for community
purposes is essential and I would be proud to continue this work on your behalf.
Thank you for your continued support.
Elaine Lang, Democrat
I first moved to Simsbury in 1971, at just 2 years old.
I attended Simsbury Public Schools and enjoyed not
only an excellent education, but also opportunities
to be involved in our community in a multitude of
ways. Like so many other teenagers, I was excited
to go forth and see the rest of the world, and so I
spent my young adult years earning a B.A. at Colby
College and an M.A. in constitutional law and legal
history from The Catholic University of America, and
living in places ranging from small-town Alaska to the
booming suburbs of Northern Virginia.
When my husband and I had the opportunity
to choose anywhere across the country where we
would want to live and raise our three daughters,
moving back to Simsbury was a clear and obvious
best decision.
It’s been 10 years since we made that move.
Our daughters are all students in Simsbury Public
Schools – Elizabeth is in the fifth grade at Squadron
Line, Isabella is in eighth grade at Henry James, and
Abigail is a senior at Simsbury High.
I’ve enjoyed giving back to the community,
though arts groups like Summer Theater and Friends
for Music, civic groups like the Junior Women’s Club,
teaching Confirmation prep at St. Mary’s, and serving as president of the Simsbury Historical Society.
It would be a tremendous honor and privilege to
continue my service to our town on the Board of
Selectmen.
It’s important to me that we continue to preserve our unique quality of life, while building our tax
base thoughtfully and responsibly, while helping our
small business community to thrive.
This Nov. 3, I ask you for your vote and your
support for all of First Selectman Lisa Heavner’s team.
Together, we can keep Simsbury moving forward.
Mike Paine, Republican
Good day, I am Mike Paine and
I want to represent you on the
Simsbury Board of Selectmen. I
was born, attended school, got
married and raised our two children in Simsbury.
I believe that my years of
living in town and running a private family owned company gives me a valuable and
different perspective. That perspective is something I
have and intend to use to keep Simsbury the special
place it is to live.
Things like: the willingness of our residents to
step in; volunteering their time and knowledge; our
open space; historical places and our walking and
biking trails; we are a diverse town, but we can use
that diversity and amplify it, when we listen to each
other’s different points of view.
Over the next several years we have an opportunity to grow our town for the future. We need
to work together and resist the siren song that will
mortgage our future. Each time we get a new business, building, apartment or even a car. We now have
an opportunity to use those new tax dollars to pay
for today’s expenses without raising taxes.
In closing, I believe that we have accomplished
a number of things in the last two years. I look forward to completing the Senior Community Center
and continuing to be fiscally responsible by maintaining or lowering our tax burden. For the last two years
that is what I have been a part of making happen.
Please remember to vote Nov. 3.
See SIMSBURY BOS on page 34
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
33
Meet the candidates - Municipal Election 2015
SIMSBURY BOS
from page 33
Chris Kelly, Democrat
This January, at the request of
First Selectman Lisa Heavner,
I moved from serving as Vice
Chairman of the Board of Education to the Board of Selectmen.
It has been a pleasure to serve
with Lisa and this board and I ask
for your vote in November.
I like to describe my overall goal as: helping
Simsbury continue to prosper as a wonderful town
for all residents to live, work, learn and play in.
Here are some things about me that I would
like you to know: 46-year resident of Simsbury and
graduate of local schools; married to Sharon Kelly with a daughter Brenna, a senior at Simsbury
High School; since 1985 I have served four years
on the Recreation Commission, six years previously on the Board of Selectmen, and nine years on
SIMSBURY
Board of Finance candidates
John Merz, Democrat
My name is John Merz and I am
a Democrat running for Simsbury’s Board of Finance. I’ve lived
in Simsbury for 12 years, and like
many of you, I came here for the
quality school system and the
incredibly charming town feel.
My experience running a midsized not-for-profit social service agency in Hartford
with a staff of 40 and a budget of $5M has given me
the experience I need to serve on the town’s Board of
Finance. Whether looking critically at a $5M budget
or Simsbury’s $91M budget, I approach them all with
the same philosophy: Only buy something if you
truly need it. No frivolous spending. Especially with
other people’s money. Don’t buy it if you can’t afford
it. Don’t over-borrow on the backs of our children’s
future. If you must buy it, make sure you get the best
quality for the lowest price. If you must borrow for
large capital improvement projects like senior centers, then make sure you get the lowest interest rate
– that’s why it is important to maintain Simsbury’s
stellar triple-A bond rating.
I am excited to be on the ballot with Lisa
Heavner and the rest of the Democratic slate. Under
recent Democratic leadership we have actually seen
a decrease in taxes and a leveling off of the mill rate
Board of Education candidates
Todd S. Burrick, Democrat
My name is Todd Burrick and I
am a candidate for re-election to
Simsbury’s Board of Education.
As with many people in town,
my wife Andrea and I moved to
Simsbury for the excellent quality of the school system. Two
of our children are graduates of
Simsbury High, and two are in their senior year.
Public service is important to me; serving on
the Board of Education follows previous participation
on the Board of Ethics and Economic Development
Commission.
I am a graduate of the UConn School of Law
and am a member of the Connecticut Bar. With 25
years of experience as an actuary, six years as a residential faculty member at Miss Porter’s School, four
years of service on the board, and the experience of
sending four children through our schools from kindergarten forward, my background and experience
will help keep Simsbury a top district and meet some
of the challenges we face today.
34
The
Valley Press
the Board of Education.
I have previously been elected by my peers to
Deputy First Selectman and Vice Chairman of the
Board of Education.
Professionally, I have twice owned my own business and also have been an executive in the insurance
industry. I have managed staffs of up to 82 employees
with budgets in excess of $15 million.
Here are my priorities: develop effective budgets for the next two years; participate in developing long-term budget goals and metrics; maximize
ability of seniors to remain in Simsbury; help facilitate effective effort and presentation of Charter
Revision Commission recommendations to the
town; quality development of The Hartford property; work effectively with the Board of Education
to continue delivery of excellent education for all
students; creation of a well-designed senior center
plan; leverage purchase of “Betty Hudson” house
to enhance river access zone; good stewardship of
open space and environment; effective and fair
that soared under Republican leadership. I’ll work
hard to see that “hold the line” trend continue. Along
with the other Democrats in town, I hope to roll up
my sleeves on the Board of Finance and work very
hard to save every dollar we can, still have a quality
of life that puts us 9th on the list of “Best Places to
Live in America” by Money Magazine, and as far as
humanly possible work with every elected official
and staff person to lower taxes while maintaining
the best quality of life that Simsbury can offer to the
hard-working people of Simsbury.
On Nov. 3, please vote for me, John Merz, Democrat, for the Board of Finance.
Robert Pomeroy, Republican
My goals in serving on the Board
of Finance will be to maintain
the high quality of life in Simsbury while prudently lowering
the tax burden on all property
owners. We enjoy an excellent
school system, a top reputation
as a place to raise a family and an
efficient level of services. I would endeavor to use a
disciplined approach to lower taxes by maintaining
our strong credit rating, keeping the debt service below 7 percent of the budget and ensuring that long
term fiscal discipline is maintained.
I am currently serving as the chairman of the
Zoning Commission for Simsbury and hope to further serve the Town of Simsbury on the Board of
Finance. I bring leadership and a common sense approach to public service that mirrors my experience
in the private sector. I have spent my entire career in
To keep students engaged at school, we must
maintain a level of technology and curriculum consistent with Simsbury’s high academic standards, and
continue to look for new ways to enhance students’
opportunities. We must also monitor performance
to deliver the best value to our community.
School budgets are limited and many services
are required. I believe in open and frequent communication between the town’s boards and the community to make sure we maintain the proper balance for
all students. Responsible budgeting will ensure the
necessary programs are funded adequately.
I look forward to moving forward with initiatives,
corrections and enhancements to our schools. My
family made the right decision to move to Simsbury.
As a member of the Board of Education, I will work
hard to ensure that others feel the same way. I am very
appreciative of your support on Election Day.
Susan Salina, Republican
I have the privilege of working as a Board of Education member and am asking for your vote again this
Nov. 3. While working on this board, we have seen
some wonderful changes to Simsbury Public Schools.
The changes to the high school schedule to allow
for the students to have eight periods of instruction,
October 22, 2015
management of town staff and functions.
Sean Askham, Republican
I have had the honor of serving Simsbury over the past four
years. I have worked with both
parties to bring about changes to
our local government through
the creation of a charter revision
commission, moving the senior
center project forward and ensuring that your hard-earned dollars are spent wisely
on projects we need in Simsbury. I have supported
preserving our wonderful town assets such as open
space and the performing arts center. I supported
driving economic development opportunities by
passing the updated business incentive plan, the economic development task force and fully funding the
Main Street Partnership.
Growing up in Simsbury, attending school at
Central, Henry James and the high school, volunteerbanking and finance. Currently, I am the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Horizon
Technology Finance Corporation, headquartered in
Farmington. I chair the investment committee and
co-founded the company in 2003. I have over 40
years of diversified leadership experience. I earned
both a Master of Business Administration and a
Bachelor of Science degree from the University of
California at Berkeley.
John Thomas Winter, Democrat
I’m John Winter, candidate for
Simsbury Board of Finance. I
ask for your support and vote
on Nov. 3. I am running because
I am deeply interested in the
inner workings of what makes
our town great and it would be
an honor to contribute to our
community.
I have been working in the actuarial profession
for the last 12 years, and my analytical approach to
problem solving makes me a strong candidate to help
balance achieving a low tax rate with maximizing the
value we get out of our taxes. My most recent actuarial experience has been in financial analysis and valuation, which are the tasks the Board of Finance faces. I always strive to understand how things work in a
deep way before offering suggestions, and I will bring
this same level of diligence to the Board of Finance.
I understand that taxes are a concern for our
residents and I will work hard to make sure every
dollar you contribute is spent wisely and efficiently.
Simsbury’s fiscal discipline has earned us Moody’s
which opened the door for so many of our students
to explore multiple interests through our elective
cluster programs, is one example. Our transition to
full-day kindergarten was also a huge success, eliminating so much stress on our youngest learners. In
giving them time within their day to socialize with
their classmates, we also were able to give the teachers time to reinforce the day’s lessons. All this was
accomplished with the smallest budget increases in
decades over the last six years.
As a parent of four children, I have seen firsthand how our decisions impact families. With three
of my children now graduates of Simsbury High, I
have also seen how all the hard work has paid off.
Simsbury sends its students to college incredibly
well-prepared. We have been through many changes
over the past few years and I am proud of the work
our board has accomplished. I ask for the opportunity to see us through the next four years and to continue to build and enhance the opportunities for all
students in our schools.
Jeffrey Tindall, Democrat
I’m Jeff Tindall and I am a candidate for the Board
of Education. I was born and raised in Simsbury and
proudly returned in 2004 after living in Washington,
ing for local organizations, and serving as liaison to
numerous boards and commissions has provided me
with perspective and understanding that helps shape
the decisions I make on your behalf at every Board of
Selectmen meeting.
We have been through some challenging times
over the past year and it is critical that we work together to move our town forward. I have proven that
I lead with Simsbury and all residents as my only focus when making decisions that impact us all. We
must elect leaders that transcend political party and
focus solely on Simsbury. I believe that I am one of
those leaders.
I am asking for your support and vote again on
Nov. 3 so that I can continue to represent all residents
of our community as we finish the senior center, keep
budgets responsible, and continue to make Simsbury
one of the best places in the country to live. Thank
you for your trust and support and please cast one
of your votes for me, Deputy First Selectman Sean
Askham, Nov. 3. Thank you.
Aaa bond rating and it’s critical to maintain this.
Like many of you, I enjoy hiking on Simsbury’s
many open trails and am inspired and refreshed by
our open space and rich history. Quality of life and
our great education system are what brought my
family here and are also what attract new families
and businesses. For me, fiscal responsibility is about
preserving and protecting this quality of life – while
making sure you get maximum value for every dollar.
I appreciate the opportunity to share a bit of
what I’m about with you, and I ask for your vote on
Nov. 3. Thank you.
Kevin Prell, Republican
My goals in serving the citizens
of Simsbury on the Board of Finance will be to keep the quality of education we have and to
decrease the tax burden of our
seniors. My approach will be to
work toward reducing our mill
rate, keeping Simsbury’s strong
credit rating and maintaining our debt service below
7 percent of the budget.
I am currently serving my second term on the
Planning Commission. On the Planning Commission
I’ve worked to expand our grand list to not only offset the loss of The Hartford, but to grow the tax base
moving into the future. I’m currently co-owner of
King, Prell & Associates, a private wealth practice here
in Simsbury. I have over 20 years’ experience managing institutional and individual client assets. I hold
my Bachelor of Science in economics from Virginia
Commonwealth University.
D.C. My two sons are currently
enrolled in Squadron Line, one of
my former elementary schools. I
graduated from Hobart College
and the Georgetown University
School of Public Policy. Since
2004, I have worked at Cigna in
state government affairs. Currently, I serve on the Board of Education, the Charter
Review Commission and on the ABC House Board
of Directors. I believe Simsbury schools are second to none
in Connecticut. We achieved this goal through a diverse course offering and wonderful teachers that
maximize student opportunities for excellence. The
students, faculty and staff have met these lofty goals
under very responsible budgets that provide exceptional value for the taxpayer money. On Nov. 3, I seek
your support to continue our work in maintaining
our great school system that demands excellence
from our students and provides a great return on investment for our community. Tom Doran, Republican
Tom Doran did not respond to requests for a
statement and headshot.
SIMSBURY
Board of Education candidate
To fill a two-year vacancy
Thomas Frank, Democrat
I am a candidate to fill the remainder of an unexpired
term on the Simsbury Board of Education. In support
of my candidacy I offer the following information.
Having lived in Simsbury for more than 15 years, hav-
Board of Assessment Appeals
candidates
In order of ballot apppearance
Lori Fernand, Democrat
Ten years ago I returned to Connecticut with my husband and
children to be closer to family.
There were two considerations I
had in looking for a place to settle: a commitment to open space
and quality schools. I found them
both in abundance in Simsbury.
Planning Commission candidates
Josef Treggor, Democrat
I thank the Valley Press for
devoting this space for land use
office candidates to make a personal statement.
As chair of the Newington
and Farmington Conservation
Commissions for a combined
tenure of over twelve years, I
have reviewed many site plans and evaluated more
sites than I can count. My background, which includes being a member of the Connecticut Association of Wetland Scientists, past President of the
Farmington Land Trust, and the principal of Ecological Education and Research Associates, provides me
with the ability to assess the suitability of a project for
the land on which it is proposed.
I am a retired Teacher of the Year in Music and
Marine Biology (grades 4 through graduate school)
and have been personally saluted for my work by
President Clinton, as well as the state legislature, the
National Education Association, and Congress.
I presently serve as an expert for the Wild and
Scenic River Study Committee, which has a bill before
Congress to designate the lower Farmington River
and Salmon Brook part of the National Wild and Scenic River System. In addition, my community service
includes volunteering as a Boy Scout Scoutmaster
and for the Winter Special Olympics as a participant-companion and the announcer for the downhill
ski races. I have recently added Simsbury Community
TV to my volunteer activities.
A member of a Planning Commission should
be well-versed not only in the process of land use
project review but in the basic engineering of a de-
Zoning Commission candidates
Thomas Kyzivat, Democrat
I am honored to be on the ballot for a seat on the
Simsbury Zoning Commission. I have lived in Simsbury for 23 years and believe that it is a tremendous
place to live, work and play, and, as a member of the
commission, I will do whatever I can to make sure
that the town continues to be such a place. Land use
is such an important part of maintaining the town’s
character, and the land use commissions, including
zoning, need people who can listen to all the constituencies and who can make the tough decisions that
are in the town’s best interest. As an attorney and a
former chair of a Hartford area nonprofit, I have the
skill set that will allow me to be that kind of person on
ing been active in various community affairs, and having seen
two of my grandchildren progress through the Simsbury public
school system, I have developed
deep respect and appreciation
for the superb system of education that is one of the attributes
that defines quality of life in our town.
I am an educator myself, having taught locally
at Central Connecticut State University, at several
other universities in the U.S. and overseas in Lithuania
for many years.
I have extensive experience with the challenges faced by teachers, administrators and students. I
have previously served in senior executive positions,
including president and CEO, at various well known
U.S. corporations, and therefore have a great deal of
experience in management, budgeting and fiscal affairs. This background will enhance my ability to serve
effectively as a member of the Board of Education. I
have served as a temporary member of the Board of
Education since March 2015 and thereby have accumulated useful experience that will help me to participate in the work of that board going forward. As a
member of the Simsbury Board of Education I would
seek to promote the continuation of the standards of
educational excellence that already exist in our town,
combined with an acute sense of fiscal responsibility.
If elected I would seek to work in a bipartisan manner
with my colleagues at the Board of Education, as well
as all members of the Board of Finance and the Board
of Selectmen, regardless of party affiliation.
Since that time, there are other qualities I have added to my list. I want a community that is inclusive
and committed to respectfully addressing our differences. I want a community with the foresight to
take on future challenges and one that supports the
amenities that provide an outstanding quality of life
for people of all ages and abilities. I see these goals reflected through the leadership of First Selectman Lisa
Heavner and am proud to be on the Democratic slate
as we work to continue bringing value to our town.
Of course that value comes with a cost that
should be equitably distributed. That is why I look
forward to being a member of the Board of Assess-
ment Appeals to ensure that those who believe they
have been unfairly assessed have an opportunity to
be fully heard.
Throughout my professional life I have worked
in the nonprofit world and currently am the Connecticut Director of Philanthropy for a national conservation organization. Some of my volunteer efforts
include the Simsbury Recycling Committee, Simsbury
Democratic Town Committee, and the Alternatives to
Violence Project at MacDougall-Walker Correctional
Facility. My greatest joy is joining with other people to
do great things – whether that be in my small family of
four or with a community of thousands.
My only promise is to listen and be fair. I hope
you will vote for me for the Board of Assessment
Appeals this Nov. 3 and support the full Democratic
slate as we work with Lisa Heavner to keep Simsbury
moving forward!
sign plan. I believe my experience, technical expertise,
and enthusiastic support of the Plan of Conservation
and Development, adopted by Simsbury residents
in 2007, make me an exceptional candidate for this
commission. I ask for the support of Simsbury residents Nov. 3.
Technologies and I am also a member of Simsbury’s
Economic Development Task Force.
I am passionate about maintaining Simsbury’s
sense of place while encouraging smart growth to
increase town revenues. I participated in Simsbury’s
charrettes for the Town Center and Hartford property – sort of a “market survey” for planning. There was
strong consensus among townspeople on the results
but, since then, I feel that we are not doing enough to
uphold them. For example, residents were clear that
we do not want to turn Hopmeadow Street into another Route 44. No part of the studies indicated that
we want more donut chains or gas stations cluttering
Hopmeadow Street. But that is exactly what we will
be getting in spite of the studies. While we need to
continue lowering taxes, we can deliver growth without sacrificing the feel of our town.
Both The Hartford property and downtown offer excellent opportunities to add high tech and professional businesses, new retail outlets, restaurants,
entertainment venues, residential structures and
even river sports events without disturbing either
traffic or town scenery. And they offer the chance
to create exciting experiences and housing that can
attract younger people. With the recent sale of the
property, I want to ensure that the new business
friendly practices developed by our Task Force can be
used to turn the charrettes into reality. This is why I
am asking for your vote for the Planning Commission.
Bill Rice, Republican
I am currently serving a four-year term on the
Planning Commission. In 2011-12, I played a major
role in the revision to the subdivision regulations that
became effective November 2012. I have an exemplary attendance record, engage and ask many questions
of applicants during their presentations, and continue to represent Simsbury as a member of the Capital
Region Council of Governments Regional Planning
Commission. I am prepared to take on the task of reviewing, and possibly amending, Simsbury’s 2007 Plan
of Conservation and Development, a requirement of
Connecticut General Statute 8-23. Simsbury is a special place to all of us. If re-elected, I pledge to serve the
residents of Simsbury and preserve the town’s unique
identity by being committed to ensuring all applications for subdivisions adhere to the subdivision regulations and I will make certain all zoning applications
referred to the Planning Commission are consistent
with the POCD.
Holly Beum, Democrat
My name is Holly Beum and
I am running for the Planning
Commission. Our family has
lived here since 2000. My husband, Gert Hilhorst, coaches
the school chess clubs in town
and my son Eric is a junior at the
High School. I own a software
development company in Simsbury called Interface
the commission. I have worked for over 20 years for
The Hartford as an attorney in a group representing
it’s insureds in civil litigation, and most recently have
managed the attorneys in that group. For seven years,
I was on the board of a nonprofit focused on financial
literacy for low and moderate income residents in the
greater Hartford area, and on workforce development
for at-risk youths. In both roles, I have had to work
to build partnerships and to develop people and projects. But most importantly, I bring a strong work ethic
and a desire to keep Simsbury the great place we all
love. Thank you for your support Nov. 3.
Vaughan Marecki, Republican
I am proud to be running again for Simsbury’s Zoning Commission. I was elected as an alternate in 2011
and in 2014 was asked to accept a regular member
Mark Drake, Republican
Mark Drake did not respond to requests for a
Erin Leavitt-Smith, Democrat
I am Erin Leavitt-Smith and I’m running for the Planning Commission on the Democratic ticket. I am excited to be running for town office for the first time.
status. I did willfully and will be
running as such in 2015. I am a
lifelong resident of Simsbury and
my family has been in town for
well over 100 years. My wife Gina
and my three children, Alexandra, Amanda and Vaughan Jr., are
very important to me and so is
the town that we are raising them in. On a business
note, I own an executive recruiting firm in town and
both residential and commercial properties, so I am
vested on many levels. I truly love the community I
work and live in.
I have been a United Way Big Brother for over
25 years, I frequently volunteer, with my children,
to feed the homeless at the Mercy House in Hartford, through St. Catherine’s of Siena, have been a
Jim Tourtillotte, Republican
Jim Tourtillotte did not respond to requests for
a statement and headshot.
Joshua Storm, Democrat
Joshua Storm did not respond to requests for a
I am running for office because
preserving our natural resources in town is a passion of mine.
I believe in the preservation of
open space, linking current open
spaces to create larger greenways
for a variety of recreational activities and the responsible development of Simsbury. I have lived in town since 2002
along with my husband Glenn and son Ryan. We enjoy the small town character of Simsbury, something
I hope to preserve through my work on the Planning
Commission. As a resident, I worked to preserve the
Ethel Walker woods with Keep the Woods. This preservation not only protected 400 acres of open space,
but also protected the main aquifer that supplies
water to the majority of Simsbury residents. It also allowed opportunity for Connecticut residents to use
the property for recreational opportunities while assuring that the area is free of development. Currently,
I work as a clinical manager for the Department of
Mental Health and Addiction Services where I have
been employed for 27 years. I oversee various criminal
justice programs for people with serious and persistent
mental illness and, as such, work with state and government agencies, all with differing missions. I have
been able to forge a collaborative partnership with
these agencies to address difficult issues and forge
solutions in a holistic manner. I hope to bring what I
have learned and the skills I have developed over the
years to my work with the Planning Commission.
Planning Commission Alternate
No candidates responded to requests:
Richard Cortes, Democrat
Gary Lungarini, Republican
Elizabeth Burt, Democrat
Ronald Locandro, Jr., Republican
volunteer for Covenant to Care and Child and Family
Services and serve as a mentor to Bryant University
athletes/graduates.
My purpose for running again is the same as it
was the first time. I want to be a part of the future
growth of this town. What we leave our children is
important to me and I hope they will raise their families in Simsbury as we have. I have enjoyed the last
four years on Zoning. We have made some difficult
decisions for this town, but always with the best interest of this town in mind. I want to continue to be
a part of that decision making, review and approval
process, so I can continue to have a positive impact
on our town’s successful growth.
I hope you will re-elect me to serve you again
on the Zoning Commission.
October 22, 2015
See ZONING on page 36
The
Valley Press
35
ZONING
from page 35
David Rogers Ryan, Democrat
Over the past 16 years, I have
served on a number of boards
and commissions in town, and I
would like to continue to contribute as a member of the Zoning Commission.
Gail and I have lived in
Simsbury for 36 years. We raised
our children here, and we value Simsbury’s rural character and its amenities such as the Performing Arts
Center, Simsbury Farms and its great school system.
Through its zoning regulations, the Zoning
Commission has strong control over the character
of our town. And Simsbury’s rural character is what
defines our town as unique and desirable.
During the past six years, on the Zoning Commission, I have contributed to the update of our
zoning regulations with the Planned Area Develop-
Zoning Commission alternates
Jonathan Laschever, Democrat
Jonathan Laschever did not respond to requests
for a statement and headshot.
Mike Doyle, Republican
Mike Doyle did not respond to requests for a
Bruce Elliott, Democrat
I am honored to be running for Zoning Commission Alternate on the Democratic slate. I previously
Zoning Board of Appeals
Thomas Horan, Democrat
Thomas Horan did not respond to requests for
Craig MacCormac, Republican
Craig MacCormac did not respond to requests
Kateryna Lagun, Democrat
Kateryna MacCormac did not respond to requests for a statement and headshot.
Alternates candidates
Joseph Campolieta, Democrat
A 20-year Simsbury resident, Joe
Campolieta is married to Nancy
Grandin, who grew up in town.
They have two children, Kate,
a senior at Simsbury High, and
Dan, who is serving in the U.S.
Army. Grateful for the friendliness, beauty and community opportunities of Simsbury, Joe loves living here.
Currently the director of Human Resources for the
Torrington Public Schools, Joe has experience in
negotiations, grievance resolution, state statute and
legal issues. Active over the years as a volunteer in
the Simsbury schools, Simsbury Historical Society
and other town organizations, Joe also coached
Little League and youth hockey teams, and for the
last 17 years has been the director of the Simsbury
Summer Theatre. Joe served on the board of directors of the North Simsbury Coalition, a community
organization that challenged the land-use plan
ment and the new Center Zone Regulation. These are
major improvements, and they put Simsbury in the
vanguard in planning for developments that enhance
the character of Simsbury.
In other town government experience, I served
on the Economic Development Commission for four
years and on the Planning Commission for four years.
I was a member of the Board of Selectmen, and I
served on the last Charter Revision Commission.
I have been active on the Simsbury Performing
Arts Center Board over the past seven years, and I am
presently serving as president of the Simsbury PAC,
Inc. nonprofit corporation that manages the Performing Arts Center. I have been a member of the
Simsbury Democratic Town Committee for 16 years,
including four years as Town chairman.
I am an electrical engineer with an MBA. I began my career in the ‘60s working with computer
graphics in Boston. I have spent over 50 years working
with large, medium and small companies developing,
and successfully implementing, business plans and
marketing strategies in a variety of technologies.
When our kids were young, I was a Little League
Baseball manager, was president of Babe Ruth and
coached several youth hockey teams. I ask for your
vote for the Zoning Commission Nov. 3.
served on the Zoning Commission 2007–2011. Prior to
serving on Zoning, I attended
the commission’s meetings for
two years 2005– 2007 to get an
understanding of how Zoning
operates and the scope of issues handled there. I grew up in
Simsbury, attended the public schools here, earned a
B.S.B.A. from CCSU and a MBA from UConn. I served
in the US Army 1970–1973, and am an active member of the American Legion. Along with a small group
of dedicated veterans, I’ve been working for more
than four years on the new Simsbury Veterans Memorial Project. In 2014, I retired from professional
life after a 38 year career in the human resources field.
I look forward to serving again on the Zoning
Commission because I believe as the economy continues strengthening, there will finally be significant
proposals coming forward for development in the
Simsbury Center Zone that was created in 2011 following extensive community input. In addition, the
Commission will need to assist the new owners of
the property being vacated by The Hartford as they
create plans for development. The town and the developer will be well served by special zoning provisions adopted in 2014 to encourage investment on
that 173 acres.
Experience tells me the zoning regulations,
along with the town’s 2007 Plan of Conservation and
JoAnn Comotti Hogan,
Republican
As a lifelong resident of Simsbury, I will be honored
to be given the opportunity to continue to serve
on the Zoning Board of Appeals. My husband Mike
and I have been fortunate to raise our two children
in Simsbury. Bennett is a junior at UConn, and Mary
is a senior at Simsbury High. After graduating from
Simsbury High School, I earned a Bachelor of Fine
Arts degree from Auburn University. I will complete
my master’s degree in educational leadership from
Central Connecticut State University in December. I
am employed as an art teacher in East Hartford.
I began serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals
as an alternate, but was approved as a full member
to overdevelop several tobacco fields in Simsbury. Joe
gained valuable experience in land-use issues while
serving on NSC, as well as a deep understanding of
the importance of balancing intelligent community
growth with maintaining the character of our town.
Joe’s work experience in the private and public sectors will be a valuable resource in helping him make
the decisions that impact our town.
Joe will bring a reasoned approach to serving
on the Zoning Board of Appeals. He is committed to
the quality of life and character of the town; he feels
strongly that any growth in our town needs to be reasonable and carefully done to balance preserving the
beauty of Simsbury with tax relief. Paul Cocchi Jr., Republican
As a lifelong resident of Simsbury, I have enjoyed much that
this town has to offer. It is my
civic duty to give something
back to the community, so I will
volunteer to serve a second term
as an alternate on the Zoning
Board of Appeals. As an Alternate, it is important that I make myself available to
Gerald Post, Republican
Gerald Post did not respond to requests for a
Donna Lynn Bernstein, Democrat
I’m running for the Simsbury
Zoning Commission because
I want to preserve our town’s
unique attributes while enabling
responsible growth that benefits
Simsbury over the long term.
I’ve lived in Simsbury for
23 years, and have seen this
town from multiple perspectives – mother of three
children, small business owner, practicing architect,
in August. My goal as a member of the ZBA is threefold. I believe that it is important to uphold the bylaws as they are outlined, while also maintaining the
aesthetics of our beautiful town. It is also important
to consider the long-term effects of our decisions as a
board speaking for the people of Simsbury. I find it is
my duty to be mindful of each resident’s request and
how it will impact the quality of his or her life as well
as that of surrounding neighbors. Decisions about appeals are often not immediately clear. As a member of
this board, it will be my job to continue to consider
each application individually and thoughtfully in order to best serve the citizens of Simsbury.
be called upon and seated at a meeting where there
is an absence. If re-elected, I will continue to maintain
a good attendance record as was the case last term.
When seated, I recognize that it is my duty to help
people achieve their goals, while maintaining the integrity of the town’s code.
Chris Peterson, Democrat
I am one of many residents born and raised in Simsbury, who chose to return and raise a family. Simsbury is an amazing gem of a town that has been recognized nationally as a most desirable place to live
and work. My work requires that I travel, but when
I return, I am instantly reminded of how truly special
our town is. Maintaining the quality of life that my
wife and our four children enjoy requires work, however. There have been several past zoning and zoning
appeal decisions which may not have demonstrated
the best stewardship for ALL of Simsbury – including
Tariffville, Weatogue and West Simsbury. I believe I
can bring a greater sense of balance to this ZBA position than others because of my lengthy residence
here, business background and practical approach to
land use. Currently, I am an appointed member of the
Insurance Commission and spent seven prior years as
VOTE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD
36
The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
volunteer and resident. I’m also an avid bicyclist who
regularly tours Simsbury, its boundaries and beyond
in an up-close and personal way.
As a result, I understand that it’s the way our
residents – young people, families, and seniors alike
– interact with businesses, schools, natural areas, and
recreational opportunities that makes Simsbury such
a vibrant community.
I’m committed to managing our land usage to
support each of these, while guiding growth to preserve our town’s character.
I think we all can acknowledge that no place
can, or should, remain forever the same, so our challenge is to direct changes in such a way that they
foster each of these key elements without negatively
impacting the others.
With my kids now in college or heading that
way, I’m excited about leveraging my design training,
along with a common sense approach, to help this
town navigate future decisions about responsible and
sustainable land use.
Development provide the framework for development, but the values and wisdom of residents serving on the Commission are more important keys to
preserving the unique quality of life in Simsbury. We
need both commercial and residential development
to grow Simsbury’s grand list through thoughtful approaches appropriately scaled and placed.
Please vote for me and the whole Democratic
team Nov. 3.
Jackie Battos, Republican
Jackie Battos did not respond to requests for a
Dennis Fallon, Democrat
Dennis Fallon did not respond to requests for a
to fill two-year vacancy
candidates
No candidates responded to requests for a
statement and headshot:
Steven Antonio, Democrat
Chris Morkan, Republican
an active volunteer fireman. My mother, Helen Peterson, devoted half of her life to ensuring Simsbury
remained the jewel of the Farmington Valley and I
would like to continue on that path. On Tuesday,
Nov. 3, I am asking for voters’ support so that I may
continue to serve this truly special town.
Diane Madigan, Republican
I believe that a vibrant community needs people
who are willing to come forward to help out where
there is a need and to be involved in its success. As
a 22-year resident of Simsbury, I have served on the
Tariffville School PTO, the Tariffville Village Association and various ministries at Trinity Church in
Tariffville. Currently, I’m coming to the end of my
six-year term on the Simsbury Library Board of Trustees during which time I was actively involved in the
hiring of our current director, and the addition of
parking near Boy Scout Hall with a lighted walkway
to the Library. I welcome the opportunity to serve
as an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals. I
am a graduate of UConn and live in Tariffville with
my husband, Scott, daughter, Lindsay, a freshman at
Simsbury High School, and son Kyle, who is currently
a Marine recruit at MCRD Parris Island.
SIMSBURY
Library Trustees candidates
Nancy Crilly-Kirk, Democrat
I grew up in Simsbury and have a graduate degree
in library and information science. I worked at Hartford Public Library for 10 years, and was the director
of a small public library for another 10. Even in the
age of the Internet, I believe deeply in the power and
importance of a public library – for recreation and
enlightenment, for the development of children, and
as something crucial to democracy and a community. I am running for the library board to ensure public
funding for the Simsbury Public Library, to make sure
the library provides what we need, and to enlarge its
centrality even more in town. I would be grateful
for your support, and welcome your concerns and
suggestions. Sara Hillier Mogck, Republican
Sara Hillier Mogck did not respond to requests
Marianne B. O’Neil, Democrat
I’m Marianne O’Neil, a Democratic candidate for the Simsbury Library Board of Trustees. I
was elected to the Library Board
six years ago and have been the
Chairperson for the past four
years. I have been an active
member of the Board and served
on the search committee for our Library Director,
Lisa Karim. During my tenure on the Board, major
improvements have included expanded senior citizen services, the hiring of a Teen Librarian, resulting
in the expansion of Teen Services, and a significant
expansion of services available from home, such as
electronic books and downloadable magazines. The
CANTON
First Selectman
Thomas Sevigney, Democrat
It has been a pleasure serving on
the Board of Selectmen over the
past four years. I believe that communities that are proactive, that
include diverse viewpoints in the
problem-solving process, that create a vision of what could be, and
take collective action to implement
that vision, get better results. By continually advocating
for this approach, I believe I have helped Canton become a community with a vision and a direction. Our
new Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) is
a comprehensive vision for our town created by a diverse group of citizens. Significantly, unlike many other towns, our POCD has an implementation plan that
ensures that our community planning efforts do not
stop at the adoption of the Plan. Furthermore, the Col-
Board of Selectmen candidate
For four-year term
Beth Kandrysawtz, Republican
As a 17-year Canton resident,
and a 10-year member of Canton
Town Boards, I’ve sought innovative ways to improve Canton
while managing the financial
impact to our town. I’ve been a
champion of excellence and fiscal prudence, and an advocate of
transparency, communication and cooperation among
the Boards of Education, Finance, and Selectmen.
I’m excited to serve on the Board of Selectman,
and will bring strategic vision, experience and energy to this new role. I was elected to the Board of Fi-
Library also initiated the Innovators’ Workshop and
installed a 3D printer. The Library’s services and offerings to our patrons earned the Library a 99.5 percent
satisfaction rate in a recent town survey. The Library
is truly an asset for everyone in town, 24/7.
I am very proud of the Simsbury Library and
wish to help continue the excellent services and resources that the Library provides be a part of its future. I bring to the Board the perspective of an experienced professional manager. Prior to my retirement,
I was an Assistant Vice President in the Information
Technology department of ATT.
My husband, John, and I have been residents of
Simsbury for 45 years and raised our three children,
Katie, Amy and John, here. I believe my longtime
knowledge of Simsbury, my enthusiasm for the Library, my past professional work experience and my
management skills enable me to be a strong and effective member of the Board of Trustees.
Please vote for me Nov. 3.
Lauren Miller, Republican
I have lived in Simsbury for 28
years and am grateful for the
wonderful people and events I
have encountered here. These
years profoundly shaped who I
am – a wife, mother, friend and
neighbor who values service,
compassion and thoughtful de-
cision-making.
My deep roots in this community started in
1984 when I became a volunteer musician in the
Simsbury Community Band. Later I held leadership
positions at the Tootin’ Hills PTO, Simsbury Celebrates
and the Simsbury Garden Club. My husband Rich and
I raised our daughters Chelsea and Meredith here and
we value the foundation the Simsbury community
gave them. From their toddler days at the library’s
story time to high school years conducting research
there we have always been impressed by the Simsbury Public Library’s excellence. I would be honored
to help carry on that legacy and continue my service
to my town as a Trustee of the Simsbury Library.
My professional experience ranges from corporate business administration to nonprofit management. I am currently the Director of Grants and
Programs at Connecticut Humanities, a statewide
nonprofit that supports our cultural heritage through
grants and programs. I work with libraries, museums
and civic organizations throughout our state. My academic background serves me well as every day I use
the skills developed while earning a master’s in Public Administration at UConn. My ongoing work and
professional development as a nonprofit practitioner
position me well to serve on this board. I am adept
at policy development, governance and budgeting
practices and I will be able to bring a broad perspective to the library board. Libraries’ roles are changing
from book-circulators to being centers of community
learning and sharing. During this evolution we need
to foster fresh ideas, thoughtfully consider community needs and inspire passionate support for the mission of the Simsbury Public Library.
Mark Orenstein, Democrat
I’m Mark Orenstein and I am
running as a Democrat for the
Simsbury Library Board of Trustees. I am currently on the Town’s
Technology Task Force and the
Aging and Disability Commission. I am the technology representative on the Friends of
the Simsbury Public Library. I am also on the Board
of Directors of Simsbury Community TV and am the
“technology geek” volunteer for Simsbury Community TV and the Simsbury Historical Society.
Last year when Microsoft was about to discontinue support for Windows XP, I presented to the Library Board of Trustees a very cost effective approach
to moving all the public access PCs in the library from
Windows XP to Windows 7. It was accepted and
Town’s IT department did the upgrade. I have been
linsville Streetscape project, the creation of new zoning
regulations that will encourage mixed-use development
and maximize our tax base, and our new marketing and
branding strategy were all developed by using a process
that I have been advocating for over 10 years: the empowerment of citizens through charrettes and other
consensus-building workshops.
However, there is still much to be done. With our
POCD, we have created a solid foundation upon which
to build. Specifically, we need to extend utilities down
Route 44 so we can take full advantage of mixed-use
development, preserve open space, be proactive regarding the development of the Collins Company property,
improve our infrastructure (especially roads) and explore
renewable energy initiatives and energy efficiency for our
town buildings. I look forward to working with citizens,
elected officials and staff in making our vision a reality.
I have been a Canton resident since 1994, am the
founder of the Collinsville Farmers Market and hold a
B.A. and M.A. in U.S. History from Trinity College. Together with my wife Jennifer, we have three wonderful
children: Abbey, Eli, and Hannah.
nance in 2013 and served as vice chair from 2013 to
present. I was elected to the Board of Education in
2007, served as chair from 2010 to 2012 and as vice
chair in 2009, and again in 2013. I served on its finance
committee from 2007 to 2013 and as chair of that
committee from 2007-2009. During that time I participated in Brick – by – Brick Expense Comparison
Study, Technology Committee, Grade Reconfiguration Study, Town Capital Improvements Committee, Town Insurance Study and served on every BOE
committee.
Board membership requires cooperation and
collaboration. No board member works alone, but
these highlight board accomplishments in which I
have played a key role: Expanded budget communication process to better include the community (informational meetings, newsletter, etc.); Initiated expense
comparison with similar districts for improved con-
First Selectman
Leslee Hill, Republican
My husband and I have lived
in Canton for nearly 15 years,
and have two daughters, ages
14 and 18. I am a Connecticut
attorney, and I practiced in
the areas of business law and
litigation. I joined the Board
of Education in 2008, and
have been Board chair for the past three years. I
am running for First Selectman because Canton
has pressing issues to address, and I have the
leadership experience, professional background,
and time that is needed to bring the community together in finding solutions. Our emergency
services, needed upgrades to roads and facilities,
and implementation of our plan of conservation
and developmental are only a few items we need
to tackle. There are competing demands on our
precious tax dollars, and government must prioritize and live within its means. The First Selectman
trol and insight; Created goal-setting process aligned
to strategic plan; instituted annual self-evaluation to
evaluate/meet strategic priorities; and restructured
committees/founded communications committee to
improve efficiency and communication.
Professionally, I serve as chief executive officer,
Motorlease Corporation, an independent automobile leasing company; annual revenues $30 million. I
am responsible for budgeting, strategic planning and
leadership development.
I hold an M.B.A. in Finance from the Wharton
School, University of Pennsylvania and a B.A. in economics from Swarthmore College.
Board of Selectmen candidates
For two-year term
involved with computers and networking for over 40
years. My wife and I have lived in Simsbury since 1972.
I have been fully retired for the last two years and am
now in give-back mode as a volunteer.
The library’s use of technology is ever increasing
and I feel that having technology literate representatives on the Board of Trustees is very important.
Library Trustees candidates
To fill two-year vacancy
Jan Beatty, Democrat
Jan Beatty, Candidate for Library
Board, has lived in Simsbury for
21 years. I quickly came to appreciate what a valuable educational and social resource our library
is. Not only is it an outstanding
facility with wonderful staff, but
it has also become our town
square – where people gather for almost any reason
you can think of. Both virtually and physically, the
library offers everyone in Simsbury an environment
that is conducive to thinking and learning. I’d like to
support our library director in ensuring the continuance of this excellent town resource.
I enjoyed a 30-year career as an editor in college textbook publishing, spending the last 10 years
as Executive Editor in the Higher Education Division
of Oxford University Press. I now work as the Grants
Manager at the Wadsworth Atheneum. I enjoy travel,
walking in Simsbury’s open space, volunteering for
the Veteran’s History Project, and, of course, reading
in the home I share with two Labrador retrievers, two
cats, and one husband, Michael Park. I look forward
to the opportunity to serve for the first time on the
Library Board.
Linda Johnson, Republican
Linda Johnson did not respond to requests for a
must lead by example, openly communicating
and respectfully listening to residents, and seeking
common ground to resolve controversial issues.
In my three years as Board of Education Chair, I
have provided goal-oriented, transparent and inclusive leadership, which I am ready to bring to
the Board of Selectmen.
The community should never have to speculate about the priorities of the Board of Selectmen, or their progress on initiatives. I will utilize
social media, the town’s website, and regular email
updates to keep you informed, and to seek your
input. My office door will be open to you, and the
job of First Selectman will be my only job outside
of my home.
We are fortunate to have passionate residents who care deeply about Canton, but I believe we can do an even better job of encouraging
public participation by creating a culture of respect, cooperation and shared vision. I welcome
the opportunity to serve Canton as First Selectman, and I would appreciate your vote.
William Volovski, Democrat
I’m Bill Volovski, a candidate for
a two-year term for the Board of
Selectman. A lifelong resident of
Canton, my family has lived and
worked in this community for
over 120 years. I look forward to
the opportunity to give something back to the town that has
given me so much.
I have been employed in municipal government in several communities for almost 30 years,
currently employed as the Building Inspector for the
Town of Granby. Each year I have to help prepare and
live within a budget. I am familiar with large municipal construction projects, and I work closely with the
See CANTON BOS on page 38
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
37
CANTON BOS
from page 37
public works and safety functions of local government. My job requires me to listen and communicate
well with residents from all walks of life. I hope that
this experience would serve me well on the Board
of Selectmen. I have also served Canton for over 37
years in the volunteer fire department.
Some of the issues and priorities that need our
attention as a community:
Continue to adequately fund road repair and restoration. In recent years we have taken important first
steps in this direction, but still more needs to be done.
We need to look for an acceptable location and
an affordable plan to replace the existing town garage. We cannot continue to band-aid this important
municipal facility. The board will need to help develop a consensus to move this project forward.
We need to actively promote smart commercial development to reduce the tax burden on residential taxpayers. The new Plan of Conservation and
Development provides good direction for the future.
We should promote carefully planned, sensitive
development for downtown Collinsville.
We should develop a comprehensive energy
conservation plan for the municipal facilities. By pulling all the potential pieces together (hydro power,
solar, modern energy management systems) we have
the opportunity to reduce energy costs and make future budgets more predictable.
We will need to carefully study and plan for the
future public safety needs of the town. Significant
decisions need to be made in the next several years
regarding paramedic service and the renovation or
replacement of fire stations.
I think that my personal experiences and
knowledge of the community and its people would
be an asset to the Board of Selectmen. I am honored
to be running with Tom Sevigny and Mike Pendell.
William Canny, Republican
“I was born and raised here in Canton and married
Mary Tomolonius, Democrat
Canton’s charm is in the diversity
of its residents, the preservation
of its historical buildings, the variety of its outdoor activities and
the ability to find goods and services locally.
As Canton grows, it’s
important to keep Canton affordable, preserve our natural resources, maintain a
healthy fund balance, review opportunities to share
services with other towns and explore areas to control or reduce costs. We need to be fiscally conservative and ever-mindful of taxpayers and how we spend
“their” tax dollars. We need to fund our needs and not
our wants.
For 40 years I’ve lived, worked and volunteered in Canton. My first foray into volunteering
was demonstrating weaving on the large looms at
the Canton Historical Museum, then serving on the
Canton Chamber of Commerce, Canton Historical Society, Sam Collins Day Committee, Economic
Development Agency, Collinsville Historic District
Commission, Connecticut River Valley Tourism District, Farmington Valley Health District, Connecticut
Supports Our Soldiers, Farmington Valley Visitors
Patty (Sarmuk) Canny who also attended Canton
High School. We have four children, three of whom
are of school age and are attending Canton schools.
I have been employed as a sales representative for
a Bloomfield-based company named Arbon Equipment Corporation for 18 years. Patty is currently
a math teacher at Canton High School and was an
eighth-grade math teacher at Canton Middle School
for eight years before taking time off to be home with
our young children. We love the small-town feel of
Canton and its community. I served on the Board
of Finance and I am now running for the Board of
Selectmen so that I can give back to this town that
has given me so many wonderful opportunities –
through schooling, town functions, park and recreation offerings, commitment to improving infrastructure, land conservation, and wise use of resources,
just to name a few. There are some amazing people
in this town, many of whom feel proud of Canton as
much as I do. I will work with all Boards to keep Canton thriving and yet quaint. Canton is part of who
I am and I intend to work hard to preserve its plan
of conservation and development and focus on fiscal
responsibility. I want to play an active role in prioritizing and making decisions for our town and how it’s
run, while simultaneously working to keep Canton’s
charm in all decisions we make.”
Benedict Holden, Green Party
When you vote in November
please consider all the choices
for the two-year term on the
Board of Selectmen. I’m your
Green Party candidate. Your response has been so friendly with
little publicity. I face two Democrats and two Republicans in
the most contested race this year. It’s important. Our
Board of Selectmen is the town brain trust – our political leadership. They run the town, deal with every
issue. They have the authority to call a town meeting,
approve contracts, write the general operating budAssociation, Canton Soccer Association, Canton Elementary, Middle and High School PTOs and numerous other boards. I served four terms on the Board of
Selectman, three terms as First Selectman and presently serve on the Board of Finance.
Since first being elected, I am proud of all that’s
been accomplished including: the purchase of key
properties under the Open Space Preservation and
Acquisition Commission; building the Police Department and re-purposing the old station into the Board
of Education offices; the Library Community Center;
the addition and renovation of the Canton Middle/
High School; committing Canton to Connecticut’s
Clean Energy Fund’s 20 percent by 2010; receiving a
$350,000 STEAP grant for Highway Garage improvements; passage of the “An Ordinance Authorizing a
Program of Property Tax Relief”; upgrading the sewer
treatment plant; supporting the Teen Librarian position; and completion of Phase 3 of the Rails-To-Trails.
Kenneth Humphrey, Republican
I have been a resident of Canton
my whole life. After retiring from
the Air Force after serving 22
years, I came back to Canton to
settle down with my family and
where all three of my children are
Canton High School graduates.
The financial health of the
get, supervise services and employee relations.
Forty percent of voters are unaffiliated. They
chose to be neither Republican nor Democrat – independent. For a decade, there has been no better voice
of reasoned independency than mine. I listen well; I
can say yes and no. I work for you now; got a resume.
I read the small print, check the math, talk with everybody, work with anyone, generate new programs, improve services and get stuff done. My website is www.
green-canton.org – check my bio. I have a plan for the
future and a passion to work hard for you.
You will have two votes. I ask every voter: please
give me one of them. Cast a yes vote toward a progressive Canton. We can do better.
Michael Pendell, Democrat
needs community. I also believe that the town has an
important decision to make in the near future about
our paramedic service. I have been informed that under our current arrangement (which will be ending in
the near future), the average wait time for paramedic
service is 17 minutes, a long time if a life hangs in the
balance. As a father with three small kids, I find that
statistic unacceptable.
In my day job, I am an attorney that fights for
working people harmed by corporate malfeasance. I believe my training and experience can be a vital
asset to the town. I am a firm believer that elected
officials should be doing the work of the people and
that the will of the people is paramount.
Larry Minichiello, Republican
My wife Elena and I moved to
Canton two years ago with our
three small children (8, 6 and 3)
because we wanted our kids to
grow up in a rural community
with a rich and diverse social
character. We also brought our
family to Canton because of its
incredible school system – a school system that has
embraced my son, who has Down syndrome. It was
important to us to find a place where William would
get the best education possible and where he would
grow up knowing all his peers. These past two years
have been incredible for William, and we could not
be happier. It seems everywhere we go in Canton,
people know him and go out of their way to talk
to him. In Canton, we have found an independent,
tight knit, artsy, small town community worth preserving. If I am elected, I will work very hard to ensure that we preserve and protect Canton’s rural and
artistic character. I am interested in fostering smart
economic growth, and think we need to further develop and implement an energy conservation plan. I
believe that we can do a better job identifying and
addressing the needs of Canton’s elderly and special
CLARITY - THRIFT - ENGAGE
are the three pillars of my campaign. Since the 1990s, politics in
the United States has evolved in
a manner that concerns me and
many of those who have asked
me to run. The voice and will of
everyday citizens are often overshadowed by the role of government, which has led
to an alarming decline in citizen participation. With
spending and taxation on the rise, constituents not
only want a voice in the public discussion, they want
to feel there is a correlation between their input and
the final decisions of government.
I want to assure the responsiveness of government, especially when it comes to high profile matters that affect our community, the private marketplace and voters’ free will. I will value the participation
and opinions of all citizens, which will allow our community and private marketplace to flourish.
I want to earn your trust, spend your money
wisely, and engage you in spirited conversation on
matters important to us all.
I want to represent you and your interests.
Please cast your ballot for me by voting 5B, for a twoyear term on the Board of Selectmen.
town has a direct impact on all of our households
and businesses. For this reason I worked hard in the
last six years on the Board of Finance in helping to ensure stable tax growth through the Great Recession
while the town achieved a bond rating of AAA.
The balance of ‘wants versus needs’ is a monthly
concern and challenge of the BOF. Canton does not
have the tax base to take on many ‘nice to have’ projects as we would like. Through diligence and forward
thinking we took on road improvements, paying
for town services, a new track and field for our high
school students, and other high value projects while
keeping taxes in check and reflecting our town’s values and concerns while maintaining a healthy and
robust financial budget. It has been interesting to see
the financial flow from year to year and understanding the direction the town residents want with their
tax money utilized. This understanding takes many
years of commitment on the BOF to acquire and this
is where I stand up and offer my services for the exciting future of Canton still to come.
I enjoy serving my town and community by
serving on the BOF. My work isn’t finished.
years and remain treasurer of the
North Canton Volunteer Fire Association. I’ve served on Canton’s
and Parks & Recreation Commission. I was president of the
Canton Chamber of Commerce
and helped them achieve independence. I was honored to accept their Business
Person of the Year Award in 2010. Voters indicate
their priorities through the democratic process and
by informing elected leaders.
A balance must be struck between meeting the
needs of as many residents as possible, while being
mindful of the impact of taxation on our neighbors.
There will always be a need for compromise and no
constituency can attain every priority at every budget cycle. In the long run, residents should be satisfied that their pocketbooks were respected and their
tax-derived funds properly spent.
It is imperative to prioritize “needs” from
“wants” while seeking to balance the many competing interests in the fairest, most transparent and
inclusive manner possible. Responsible budgeting
requires differentiating short, medium and long-term
expenses, all while keeping the limits on revenue, the
tax income taken from residents, in mind.
I will always be mindful of the impact of property taxes on residents, as they impact my family, too.
Arnold Goldman, Republican
I have operated Canton Animal Hospital, for
over 20 years and a foundation, the Connecticut
Veterinary Medical Foundation, for 10 years. I was
treasurer of the Sam Collins Day Committee for 10
LWV of Canton publishes Voter Guide for November election
To promote informed voting in the upcoming Nov. 3 election for Canton town offices, the League of Women Voters has published its 2015 Voter
Guide. The guide is available at the Canton League website, http://lwvcanton.org, the Town of Canton website, and printed copies are available at the
Canton Senior Center, Canton Library and Canton Town Hall. The guide features candidates’ answers to questions posed by the league to candidates
for First Selectman, Board of Selectman, Board of Finance and Board of Education.
Canton voters are reminded that this year’s November election, and all subsequent November elections, will be held at Canton High School. With
ample parking, this voting site is handicapped accessible.
38
The
Valley Press
October 22, 2015
CANTON
Peg Berry, Democrat
I’ve been a Canton resident for
16 years and have served on the
Board of Education for four years.
During that time, I’ve chaired the
communications and curriculum committees, and served on
the finance/facilities, policy and
negotiations committees. I have
also served on the kindergarten task force, and special technology, principal search, and teacher evaluation committees. I have built strong relationships
with our teachers, administrators and other board
members, and look forward to continuing to serve
the town of Canton for another term. We continue
to face challenges of offering Canton’s students the
finest education while delivering a fiscally prudent
budget. I believe we need to invest in and use technology thoughtfully and appropriately to expand educational opportunities for all of our students, seek
new ways to help students of all abilities achieve success both in Canton’s schools and when they leave,
and support our teachers and administrators who, I
believe, are some of the best in Connecticut.
I am a parent of two children – a 2015 CHS
graduate and a CHS junior – and have been married
to Dave Berry since 1995. I hold a B.A. in English from
Trinity College. I am currently the marketing manager for Cigna in Bloomfield. I previously owned my
own freelance marketing consulting business, and
was director of marketing and investor relations for
SS&C Technologies, a publicly held investment management software company. I’ve been a member of
candidates
David Sinish, Democrat
David Sinish did not respond to requests for a
CBPS, CIS, and CMS PTOs, 2002-11; co-founder and
five-year co-chair of the CBPS/CIS Winter Festival and
Silent Auction which raised nearly $100,000 in five
years; also co-chaired Earth Day Committee, chaired
Cultural Enrichment Committee, and worked on
numerous sub-committees; room parent at CIS and
CBPS for a combined total of 11 years; member of CIS
Quality Council, 2009-11; seven-year volunteer coach
with Canton Youth Soccer, five-year head coach for
the boys travel team.
Helen Treacy, Republican
My name is Helen Treacy. I have
lived in Canton for the past 12
years. I am currently the principal at Saint Augustine School in
Hartford and a mother of four
children, three currently in the
Canton school system. I graduated from Villanova University
with degrees in English and communications and
have taught English conversation to middle school,
high school and junior college students while fulfilling a missionary assignment in Japan. I earned my
K-8 multi-CLAD teaching certificate from the United States University in San Diego, Calif., and have
taught elementary education in both Hartford and
San Diego.
Serving on the Board of Education for the past
four years, I believe, I have a better understanding of
the needs of our schools. It has been a very positive
experience and I hope to continue to be a part of
making Canton’s schools the best they can be. I believe there needs to be a strong alliance among students, teachers, parents and the administration, and
I have the background to understand and relate to
each stakeholder when faced with important decisions concerning our children here in Canton. A
successful Board of Education requires breadth and
Joe Pelehach, Republican
I have lived in Canton for over 20 years raising
my three children with my wife Amy. I have served on
the Canton Planning Commission and was involved
with the 10-year plan of development. In addition, I
also served on the town’s Open Spaces Committee. I
have volunteered with Canton Little League and Can-
depth of the relevant issues facing our community.
As a parent, teacher and administrator, I feel that I
have that experience and knowledge to continue to
ensure Canton succeeds.
As our town continues to grow, we need to
make important investments in infrastructure and
educational resources. One example of this is our
new track and field which has been a wonderful addition to both schools and our community. Let us
continue to build and grow together.
I encourage all our residents to take the opportunity to vote in November and voice your opinions on
the issues affecting our children and our community.
Joseph Scheideler, Democrat
As an educator for 42 years, my
priority always was to engage students in a manner that was exciting, challenging and rewarding.
As a Board of Education member,
my priority would be the same –
support policies and programs
that ensure high achievement,
opportunity and success for all students.
Canton Schools have a long history of excellence and I am proud to have been part of that history as a social studies teacher, coach, athletic director
and administrator. I was honored to be selected as
the founding principal of Canton Middle School in
2004, serving in that role for a decade. CMS was able
to become Connecticut’s Middle School of the Year
in 2009 because it was a welcoming, student-centered, high-achieving school that channeled all its
efforts to make “success for every child” a reality.
Retirement from the Canton Schools after 37
years did not end my commitment to the town and
its students. Service on the Board of Education would
allow me to bring my experience and knowledge to
the district’s ultimate decision-making body.
ton Youth Basketball Association.
I am the vice president at Motorlease in Farmington and have been there for 28 years. My primary role is heading up sales for the United States and
Canada, however, I am also involved with the strategic planning of the company.
I am running for The Board of Assessment Ap-
Challenges in public education today are significant. In addition to literacy and math, responsible
and effective use of technology, productive citizenship and strengthening science education are but a
few areas of concern. A common sense approach to
high stakes testing, implementing the Common Core
Curriculum and teacher evaluation is vital. A commitment to educating the whole child and supporting
opportunities for students to develop their talents
can’t be overstated.
The Canton community has a long history of
supporting its schools. It is important for the board
to keep the community informed and to seek input
from the community. Financial resources in a small
town are limited. Decisions about spending must be
made in a creative and thoughtful manner.
David Briggs, Republican
As a resident of Canton for the
past 15 years, my children have
had the opportunity to attend
Canton schools, beginning in
kindergarten, until now, where
they are a senior and juniors in
high school. In that time I have
come to truly appreciate what an
exceptional school district Canton has. My children
are fortunate to have received superior academic instruction along with opportunities in the arts, athletics and many extracurricular activities.
It has been my pleasure to serve on the Canton Board of Education for the past four years and I
look forward to serving another four. I will, along with
the board, continue to work with the administration
to ensure Canton residents continue to receive the
level of academic excellence they have come to expect for their children, while providing Canton with
a fiscally responsible budget that addresses both current and future needs.
peals to ensure that taxpayers who have a grievance
with the town of Canton about the valuation of their
property are given a fair hearing.
There are eight candidates for constable: Democrat Patricia White, Republican Stephen Roberto, Democrat Charles Hammond,
Republican Karen Berry, Democrat Carrie Sinish, Republican Julius Fialkiewicz, Democrat Carlene Rhea, Republican Daniel Barnhart
FARMINGTON
Town Council chair, incumbent
Nancy Nickerson, Republican
My name is Nancy Nickerson and I am running for my second term as the Town Council chair
in Farmington. I am honored to serve the town of
Farmington as a volunteer and an elected official. I
am committed to preserving the exceptional quality
Town Council candidates
Amy Suffredini, Democrat
Voting District 1
I am running for my third term
on the Town Council.
I am an attorney, businesswoman and parent.
When evaluating any issue
I ask. . . is this in the best interest
of Farmington?
It is in our best interest to
have the lowest mill rate in the Valley while investing
of life Farmington citizens enjoy. This includes quality town
services, excellent schools and
efficient and responsible budgeting. I first became an elected
official when I ran for the Board
of Education in 1991 and served
for 16 years, 10 as chair. During
my tenure, our schools received many statewide and
national accolades. In addition to my service as an
elected official, I have very deep and broad connec-
tions to the community through my volunteer work
on many boards and organizations.
Currently, I am in my sixth year on the Town
Council and my second as chairman. During my
tenure on the council, we continued to have a Aaa
rating, we maintained core town services and outstanding schools with fiscally responsible budgets,
preserved land as open space, reduced our town
debt, strongly supported our fire, police and rails to
trails, found savings in green initiatives and advocated for the commercial desirability of Farmington
that’s reflected in decreasing vacancy rates. We have
completed the update of our strategic plan and the
results from the related citizen survey were extremely
positive.
I am proud to be a part of Farmington’s leadership team for more than 20 years bringing direction,
consistency and continuity to town management. I
believe that with my experience, knowledge of town
issues and depth of community involvement we can
work together to ensure that Farmington continues
to be a special place to live, work, and raise a family.
in services and infrastructure. I supported budgets
that do this.
It is in our best interest to be proactive. This is
one of the reasons my work on Farmington’s Gateway Commission is so satisfying. We focus on “neglected” areas, learn what residents want and put in
place a plan to make that vision a reality.
It is in our best interest to be inclusive. As the
Council liaison to the Human Relations Commission
I helped put into place a system in which all capital
projects are reviewed by an accessibility expert.
It is in our best interest to be responsive to residents. At residents’ urging, I advocated for the return
of a Farmers Market and Bulk Pick-up.
It is in our best interest to protect Farmington’s
natural and historic resources. I am the liaison to
the Historic District Commission and support open
space acquisitions along the Farmington River.
It is in our best interest to keep a solid base of
business. This enables Farmington to invest in services
and infrastructure while keeping taxes affordable.
It is a privilege to serve on the Council. If
re-elected, I will provide energetic, strategic leadership to keep Farmington a wonderful place to live.
for re-election to the Town
Council. With your support I
will continue to promote our
core values: community, responsibility and opportunity.
I am a third-generation
Farmington resident with roots
in the community that go back
over 100 years. My wife of over 20 years, Laura, also
grew up in town and attended FHS with me. My older daughter, Emma, graduated from FHS in 2014 and
my younger daughter, Lily, is an eighth-grader at IAR.
Peter Mastrobattista, Repubican
Voting District 1
My name is Peter Mastrobattista and I am running
See FARMINGTON TC on page 40
VOTE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD
October 22, 2015
The
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39
FARMINGTON TC
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My commitment to public service spans over
20 years. I served on the Farmington Volunteer Fire
Department in different leadership positions. I also
served as an alternate to the Town Planning and Zoning Board from 2010-12. I am currently the Chairman
of the Land Acquisition Committee and the liaison
for the Joint town of Farmington City of Hartford
Committee and Town Planning and Zoning.
I place great importance on listening carefully
to all sides while respecting the letter and spirit of
the laws and regulations under the Council’s purview.
While serving on the Town Counsel, I have demonstrated my ability to reach consensus on a variety of
issues, a necessary skill for effective governance.
Farmington succeeds not only because of its
sense of community, but also because of its disciplined financial management. Farmington is a unique
and wonderful place to live, in part, because, as part
of the Republican leadership, I have stressed financial
responsibility. Farmington has continued to prosper
during my term in office, attracting new businesses,
maintaining an award-winning school system and ensuring the availability of excellent town services.
I will continue to work hard for you, steadfast
in my belief that opportunities are created by a great
education and a vibrant local economy. I ask for your
vote on Nov. 3.
Jon Landry, Republican
Voting District 1
I was born in New London and
lived in New England for 15
years before my family moved
to Washington state where I met
my wonderful wife, Erika. Erika
and I just celebrated our 15th
wedding anniversary. Erika and I
couldn’t help but fall in love with
Connecticut during the many visits we made back
east to visit family over the years. In 2005, we decided
it was the place for us, and we made the big move
back. Erika and I absolutely love raising our two beautiful children, Alexis and Olivia, here in Farmington.
Whether it’s striving to maintain our award-winning school system or providing vital services for seniors, I care deeply about preserving our quality of
life here in Farmington. I have been very fortunate to
have the opportunity to give back to our community
as a member of the Town Council for the past two
years and previously as a member of our Board of Education, and I would like to continue to do so.
In these difficult economic times, we face the
challenge of not placing a burden on our families, and
continuing to maintain our town’s award-winning
school system and excellent core services. Farmington has historically been very prudent in regard to its
FARMINGTON
Melanie Meehan, Democrat
This fall, I am running for election to the Board of Education.
I served on that board for eight
years and was honored to represent the people in Farmington.
Two years ago, I could not commit to running because of family
circumstances, but this year I am
able to give this responsibility the time and energy
it requires.
Reflecting on my eight years of service, I am
proud of the professionalism, collaboratio and commitment to high quality public education our board
valued, even during times of dissonance. School
boards partner with school leaders to establish a vision for schools. During my tenure, our board partnered with our educators, our students and our com-
40
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Valley Press
finances and we must continue to be vigilant in order
to keep our fiscal house in order. This means running
the most cost-effective town and school system possible, while maintaining the first-rate resident services
that we all cherish.
We moved our family here precisely because of
this fragile balance that Farmington has mastered. I
am running to follow in the footsteps of decades of
strong Republican leadership where I will continue to
preserve this balance so that the next generation can
enjoy this wonderful place we all know and love.
John Vibert, Democrat
Voting District 2
I am a fourth generation Farmington native who attended Farmington public schools from kindergarten until my graduation in 1968. A 1972 graduate of
UConn, I spent 33 years with The Hartford and am
now retired. I live in Unionville with my wife, Dana.
We raised our four children here.
A lifelong community activist, I was president
of the Farmington Land Trust for five years, and
served on Planning and Zoning as an alternate. I’ve
also coached soccer and baseball, volunteered as the
Cubmaster for Pack 37, Unionville and served on the
Board of the Unionville Museum. I am currently the
treasurer of the Farmington Community Chest.
I am serving my third term on the Town Council representing the 2nd District.
Farmington is a wonderful town. And it is wonderful because of years and generations of careful
oversight. While we should not be complacent, I am
proud that during my three terms on the Council
we’ve delivered: superior schools, low tax rates, excellent balance between residential and commercial
properties, 30 percent of the town is protected open
space, ongoing farming, safe streets and neighborhoods, AAA bond rating and Bicycle Friendly Community designation.
I’m committed to maintain our high standard
of living, and to improving the town’s recreation, pedestrian safety, education and commercial growth. I
am especially interested in continuing our work on
the Bicycle Friendly Farmington program and continuing my work improving recreation programs for
all ages. Planning the renovation of Farmington High
School is a priority activity for the Council and for
me personally. I hope you will vote for me on Nov. 3.
Meredith Trimble, Republican
Voting District 2
I am grateful for the opportunity
to continue my service to Farmington as a Town Council member. One of my favorite endeavors of my first term was my work
on the town’s Strategic Planning
Committee. The committee’s
munity to establish our mission statement, five-year
goals, and Vision of the Graduate, documents that
still lead the work in Farmington schools. We all focused on the value of public education, which partners with my unwavering belief that schools should
be dedicated to serving and teaching all children.
Effective school boards require members who
work hard and participate in committees and processes. During my tenure, I served on several committees, including as chairperson of the Curriculum
Committee and Chairperson of the Communication
Committee. Additionally, I participated in several
search processes, and worked hard to create and pass
budgets during challenging financial times.
For eight years, I served with dedication and
integrity. Farmington is one of the highest-ranking
school districts, not only in the state of Connecticut, but also in the United States. I am proud to
have played a role in creating schools that prepare
students to meet the challenges of citizenship in our
rapidly changing world.
On Nov. 3, I respectfully ask for your vote.
October 22, 2015
townwide survey provided exciting information
about residents’ priorities. These priorities inform the
town’s strategic direction, and I look forward to continuing to make progress in the areas that are most
important to the community, such as increased accessibility and connectivity to our recreation facilities
and river. I also serve as liaison to the Water Pollution
Control Authority, the Unionville Historic District
Commission, UVIA, the Capitol Region Council of
Governments and the Alma Bailer-Taylor Scholarship
Committee, among others.
As a former member of Farmington’s Board of
Education and past board member of the Farmington Public School Foundation, I have an in-depth understanding of school district initiatives and finances.
My professional background includes nonpartisan
government service with the United States Federal
Election Commission and the Connecticut Office of
State Ethics. I have visited many towns through the
Connecticut Conference of Municipalities to provide
ethics guidance, and have consulted on governmental ethics for the University of Connecticut and UTC.
My husband is a small business owner in Unionville, where we live with our children, ages 8 and 5.
We strive to be involved and contributing members
of our community, through volunteering and supporting town and school organizations and teams.
We chose to live in Farmington because of the town’s
quality education, excellent services and low tax rate.
My Council goal is to continue to make sure those
good things don’t change. I’m proud to have contributed to Farmington’s ‘best-in-area’ position as an
attractive place to be for businesses and families alike,
and am appreciative of your continued confidence in
me and your vote on Nov. 3.
Bill Beckert, Democrat
Voting District 2
I am running for town council because I love our
town, and I enjoy public service. I would be grateful
for an opportunity to serve you on the Town Council. I am asking for your vote because I believe Unionville needs people serving on the council who are
willing to listen and make good decisions about how
we govern ourselves. I am committed to maintaining
the good town services and the quality education we
have come to expect. I am a father, husband, community and church volunteer.
I have served our town in various roles since
we moved here in 2001. I have spent the past seven
years on the Board of Education. I have served on the
Conservation Commission, Inlands and Wetlands,
and the Planning and Zoning Commission. I have
coached Little League baseball and basketball with
my children, and last year I began teaching CCD to
seventh- and eighth-graders at St. Mary’s. I have also
been involved in many community organizations. I
attended UConn and have been practicing law for
Mark Blore, Republican
My name is Mark Blore, and I’m
asking for your vote to continue
serving on our Farmington Board
of Education. As Farmington residents, my family has benefited
tremendously from the wonderful teachers and rich learning environment here in town.
I’m running again to help continue Farmington’s legacy of educational excellence, and to keep
the high quality schools we have grown to know and
love. I believe we must continue to attract and retain quality, talented teachers; provide the necessary
funds for all children to succeed – and ensure that
our highest achievers continue to be provided the
necessary resources that make them stand out when
applying to our nation’s best colleges.
If elected, I would continue working with
like-minded parents, educators and residents to find
common sense solutions to the educational challenges of our time. Having served for two years on
our Board of Education, I believe that more money is
not always the answer to resolving the problems we
over 20 years. I live off River Road on Hemlock Notch
with my wife, Darlene, and our children, Grace and
Devin.
Through my prior experience serving the town
and community involvement, I have developed a
deep understanding of what makes our town great. I
also believe I have an understanding of its challenges.
Unionville in particular is faced with many challenges.
Clearly, the number one issue facing Unionville
is traffic. We need a plan to address the burden on
our roads. We need to be willing to work with the
state and neighboring towns to accomplish traffic relief. If elected, I promise to work for that goal.
The redevelopment of the Charles House property is also an issue for Unionville. I believe my background in the law and public service has prepared me
to ask the right questions to ensure that whatever
happens, Unionville is not negatively impacted.
The combination of hard-working families, financial prudence, and citizens engaged in our community through countless civic and social organizations, a commitment to excellent schools and our
consistently low tax rates make our town great
I am committed to maintain that ethic. I will
work hard for you. I will always be available to listen
and respond to any questions or concerns you have.
I ask for your vote Nov. 3.
Gary Palumbo, Republican
Voting District 2
My name is Gary Palumbo, and
I have recently been endorsed
by the Republican Party Town
Committee to run for the Farmington Town Council, District 2. I
have owned Farmington Jewelers in Unionville for 11 years and
live in Farmington in the Highlands neighborhood. For many years, I have enjoyed
supporting and being involved in many Farmington
organizations, fundraisers, religious groups, sports
teams and more. Town Council is a natural extension
of my commitment to our town. I have served on the Zoning Board of Appeals
and am committed to continuing to work to maintain the remarkably high quality of life we enjoy in
Farmington. I will work with my Town Council colleagues to keep consistent our outstanding standard
of life, low taxes, and the excellent services that we
cherish – those things that brought us to this town
and keep us here. I have been married to my wife,
Amy, for 28 years. She is a volunteer for the Farmington Community Chest, the Unionville Village
Improvement Association and the Dr. Dunne Scholarship Committee. Together we have two children, a
son, Anthony, who is a volunteer at Tunxis Hose-EMT
and full-time college student, and a daughter, Deanna, who is a full-time college nursing student. face, and that well-informed, thoughtful approaches
are key to maintaining the highest quality education
for all students – while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Whether it is submitting budget proposals, taking
“outside the box” approaches, or simply looking for
efficiencies and shared services – I have fought hard
to make sure the needs of our children and teachers are met, while also making sure taxpayers’ hardearned dollars are well used.
This Nov. 3 I am asking for your vote to continue serving on our Farmington Board of Education. Liz Fitzsimmons, Democrat
My name is Liz Fitzsimmons
and I am asking for your vote
for Board of Education. My
husband, Ned Statchen, and I
moved to Farmington for the
excellent school system, low
taxes and quality town services
that Farmington has to offer.
Our two children attend the Farmington public
See FARMINGTON BOE on page 41
FARMINGTON BOE
from page 40
schools and we couldn’t be happier with our decision to make Farmington our home. After moving
to Farmington, I served as a parent leader and school
volunteer. I have participated in the Superintendent’s
Parent Leadership Forum and have been active in the
West District PTO, serving as Board of Education Liaison for seven years and also as the Treasurer. I am the
co-president of Farmington Future, a non-partisan
budget advocacy group dedicated to the quality of
our schools and town services. I am running for the
Board of Education to further my commitment to
the educational performance of the Nationally Recognized Farmington schools. I believe that Farmington Public School’s Vision of the Graduate and Continuous Improvement Strategies are the right path
and the reason why the Farmington Schools are consistently ranked in the top 10 in Connecticut. Class
size is also something that should be maintained and
monitored closely by the Board of Education and
compliance with the Board of Education policy is
necessary. I believe in transparency and clear communication between the Board of Education and the
community. I graduated from George Washington
University Law School and I practice law in Hartford.
I also have a Master’s in Public Administration from
UConn. I am asking for your vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3
because I have the commitment and leadership experience to help the Farmington Schools meet the
demands of a 21st century education, continually
looking for ways to improve our already excellent
school system.
Mecheal Hamilton, Repubican
I’m Mecheal Hamilton, Republican Candidate for the Farmington Board of Education.
My children, Michael and
Margaux, and I have lived in
Farmington since 1997. We
moved to the Highlands in 2000.
It was an exciting year for us to
move from our Unionville apartment to a family
neighborhood in Farmington.
Farmington became our home from that year
on. Unlike my military family life, I had no desire to
move again. Why? As a single parent household,
Farmington proved to be the ONLY town that offered affordable single family homes, a “best-in-class”
school system and ultimately, a career with a local
company. Our town has it all…for everyone and every family situation!
Farmington’s school system has launched my
children from high school to top universities and ultimately, successful careers. I am committed to serving
on the BOE with enthusiasm and continue the legacy
of our top-rated school system.
I have been very fortunate to also give back
FARMINGTON
candidates
No candidates responded to requests for a
statement and headshot:
Ron White, Democrat
Christopher Marthieu, Republican
Plan and Zoning candidates
Diane Tucker, Democrat
Prior to moving to Farmington, I served for more
than 16 years on West Hartford’s Zoning Board. I enjoyed the community involvement very much and
wanted to replicate that here in my new community. I learned three main things about successful communities during my service in West Hartford:
There are three “pillars” that make towns successful. They are: prudent fiscal leadership, superior
schools, and ZONING. I feel very strongly that good-sense develop-
to our community as a member of the Chamber
of Commerce, an active volunteer and committed
member of numerous community boards and business networks.
I am also a VP with Farmington Bank. You may
have recognized me on a recent trip to the Main
Street or Unionville branches. I am honored to be
employed in the town that I live. It provides a perfect balance for my family and MUCH perspective on
understanding both the family and business matters
in our town.
Farmington has always been financially prudent
and dedicated to providing top-rated schooling and
town services. How fortunate, as we rely on this for
our children’s futures and for attracting new families
to build their lives in our town.
I welcome your support on Nov. 3 and look
forward to preserving our town’s legacy of prudence,
quality of life and of course, CHARM.
Andrea Sobinski, Democrat
My name is Andrea Sobinski
and I am seeking election to the
Farmington Board of Education.
I am married with two children
who attend Farmington Public Schools. I am currently employed as a realtor and also have
19 years of experience as a social
worker in the public and private sectors. I have an
MSW from UConn and a B.A. from Fairfield University.
As a parent leader in our schools, I served as
Co-President and Secretary of the Noah Wallace
School PTO. I continue to co-chair the NWS New
Student Social, I serve on the NWS Student Development Council, and I participate in the Superintendent’s Parent Leadership Forum. As a volunteer in
the community, I am the manager for my son’s travel
soccer and basketball teams. All of these experiences
are indicative of my commitment to the schools, a
commitment that would transfer to the Board of Education. These experiences have also heightened my
understanding of positive relationships, collaboration, and accessible communication, an understanding that will help me become a valuable member.
If elected, I will support and advance school
initiatives that prepare our students for an actively
changing world. I will work to meet the demands
of a 21st century education while supporting ongoing cost-containment initiatives in our district. I will
encourage open and transparent communication
with all stakeholders. I will work to maintain Farmington’s class size policy and ensure reasonable class
sizes in grades Kindergarten through 12. Finally, I will
continue to build upon the foundation and tradition
of educational excellence that is represented in our
schools.
It is an honor to be a parent leader in our comment and making sure a community stays looking
sharp are vital to its continued success in the marketplace. If I am elected to office, the following points
would shape my reasoning in making decisions on
the Town Plan and Zoning Commission:
I would be looking carefully at every application
to be certain that it hews to our regulations without
exception. I care very much about the feelings of
neighbors to potential new developments. New development has got to be considered in
the context of quality of life for our residents. We should be cognizant that open space and
the natural environment help make Farmington the
place it is. We should be watching carefully to be sure
our natural resources are protected and valued.
Traffic impacts are a big concern to everyone in
town, and I am hoping that we will have a comprehensive traffic study here in Farmington soon. We have to look at the town (Unionville and
Farmington) as a whole when thinking about development that will affect traffic patterns. Spot-zoning is a mistake – when we fix a traffic problem in one area only, we will simply push the
congestion to another area. munity. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve our residents as a member of the Board of
Education. I am asking for your vote Nov. 3.
Christine Arnold, Republican
My name is Christine Arnold
and I am asking for your support
as I run for a position on the
Board of Education in Farmington. My husband, Patrick and I
live in the Highlands. We have
two children, Colin (8) and Addison (7), both at Union School.
We moved to Farmington so our kids would have
the best education. My husband is a Marine and we
feel a collective duty to serve our community. My
family goes back generations in Farmington and has
deep roots in our town.
My background and training at an executive
level in three different Farmington-based businesses will help me to be a contributor to the governing board for our school system in Farmington. It is
my turn to step up to ensure the continued success
of the excellent system that’s been created in Farmington. I think it is essential to be strategic and then
tactical in pursing excellence for our kids. I’m running
now because there is opportunity on the board to
make a difference.
I am a mom with two school age children. As
such, I understand how our schools operate and
what challenges lie ahead for our school system. The
Board of Education sets the direction for policy and
capital planning as it relates to the school budget and
operations. I will work hard and use my experience
and talents to help the board set its course for the
future. I am again asking for your support and look
forward to seeing you on Nov. 3, Election Day.
do my best to ensure that our students are happy,
engaged, lifelong learners eager for a bright future.
Author of two books, I hold a Master of Education Degree from Cambridge College and a Bachelor
of Arts Degree in Political Science from Roger Williams University. I have been writing grants as long as I
have been gluten-free, but it is my passion for helping
others that lead me to seek election to the Farmington Board of Education. I am running for the board of education because I want to support every student on their path
toward success by preserving the diversity of our academic curriculum, while ensuring fiscal responsibility,
and gaining a greater awareness for the academic decision making of our district leaders.
To be successful in this effort we must work together, therefore, I turn to you and ask for your support. Please vote for Rebecca Tuttle on Tuesday, Nov.
3. Thank you. Christopher Fagan, Republican
Hello, my name is Rebecca Tuttle
and I am asking for your vote on
Tuesday, Nov. 3 for election to
a two-year term on the Farmington Public Schools Board of
Education. Our family moved
to Unionville in 2006 with the
anticipation that our children
would attend Farmington Schools. We were immediately drawn to Farmington’s exemplary education
and friendly community. As a member of the West
District School PTO, Junior First Lego League, School
Governance Council, and Superintendent Parent
Leadership Forum, I have had many meaningful experiences which lead me to accept nomination by
the Farmington Democratic Town Committee. I will
My name is Chris Fagan and I am
currently a Farmington Board
of Education member running
for election this fall. I would be
honored if you would support
me in my efforts to continue to
further serve the parents and
children of our community, and
the Farmington community as a whole.
I am an attorney with XL Catlin Insurance in
Hartford and have lived in Farmington for the past
18 years with my wife Patty and our two children. I
view myself and fellow board members as fiduciaries
of the parents and children of Farmington, entrusted
to provide them with the highest performing schools
possible. One of the most important challenges facing our society today is to prepare our children with a
strong education for what is becoming an extremely
challenging and rapidly changing future. My focus as
a board member will be on creating an educational
environment where every single child in the district
has the opportunity to succeed as we continue to
embrace and support the Vision of the Graduate that
provides the fundamental educational framework for
our schools. I will also continue to work collaboratively with the board, administration and teachers as
we strive to retain our well-earned position as one
of the state’s and nation’s premier public school systems. We must also not only think of the children
of today, but the children of tomorrow as we each
become leaders of our own learning for the future.
In doing so, must also act in line with the interests of
the entire school community and the community of
Farmington as a whole in a cohesive, objective and
fiscally responsible manner.
Again, I would be honored for you to place your
continued trust in me, as your fiduciary, to serve you,
your children and the entire Farmington community.
It only makes sense to look at the community
as a whole. While I am not at all in favor of stifling development, we have to apply some common-sense
limits, looking creatively in the future for opportunities for development that support our tax base. Farmington is looking forward to some big
projects that will affect the town considerably in
the future, such as the Gateway Project and Charles
House, and I hope to lend my experience to make
those projects enrich our community. key role in protecting the town through the maintenance of the Town Plan for Conservation and Development and in applying our Zoning Regulations fairly
to our citizens and businesses to protect our neighborhoods and foster smart economic development.
My background in consulting, energy conservation
and environmental conservation helps me insure
that the interests of the entire town are taken into
consideration. I would appreciate your support with
your vote Nov. 3.
To fill two-year vacancy
Rebecca Tuttle, Democrat
Jay Fraprie, Republican
The town of Farmington is a
unique place with a wonderful
school system, strong community and historical character. My
wife Susan and I have lived and
raised our children here for 20
years. We have enjoyed every
minute. I would like to continue
to serve and protect the character of the town and
would appreciate your support to be re-elected to
the Town Plan and Zoning Commission.
The Town Plan and Zoning Commission plays a
Kerry Robair, Democrat
Kerry Robair did not respond to requests for a
Don Doeg, Republican
Don is a current member of the Farmington Town
Planning and Zoning Commission and serves as
the Secretary for the Commission. Don is an 18
year resident of Farmington and wants to do his
part to help Farmington to continue to be the great
town that it is and allow it to remain that way for
See FARMINGTON P&Z on page 42
October 22, 2015
The
Valley Press
41
FARMINGTON P&Z
from page 41
the next generations. He believes that his diversified background as both an attorney and
engineer allows him to bring significant experience and unique
expertise to the Commission.
Don has been a practicing
attorney for twenty plus years
and focuses his practice in construction law. He
works with owners, design professionals, contractors and others in the construction industry in all
aspects of projects, from initial inception through
completion.
In addition to his position as an attorney, Don
has been a Professional Engineer for more than twenty years. He is very active in the Connecticut construction community as evidenced by his selection
as one of four public members to the State Codes
and Standards Committee and his involvement with
many industry organizations (including sitting on the
Board of Directors of several groups). He is also active
in the green building industry and has been certified
as a LEED Accredited Professional.
In addition to his B.S. in Civil Engineering, Don
has both MBA and JD degrees. He formally served in
the U.S. Air Force, achieving the rank of Captain.
Don is married to Cheryl. Their two children,
Kevin and Megan, are graduates of Farmington High
School. He has been active in town for many years as
a coach for both girls and boys sports teams involving
his kids.
Don’s diversified background makes him
uniquely qualified to better understand the multiple
issues that come before the Commission, both from
a technical and legal standpoint.
Plan and Zoning alternates
Cherren Payne, Democrat
Cherren Payne did not respond to requests for
David Houf, Republican
Nine years ago, Dave Houf
moved from Phoenix, Ariz.,
to Farmington and has never
looked back. He is a current
alternate on the Farmington
Planning & Zoning Commission,
a past commissioner on Inland
Wetlands and Conservation and a volunteer baseball coach through the FYBL. He has been married
for 10 years and has two young sons. A 2009 graduate of UConn Law, Houf is an attorney practicing
throughout the state of Connecticut. His legal background, past commission work and commitment to
common sense give him strong experience; his love
of Farmington’s people, businesses and open spaces
make him a strong TPZ-Alternate candidate.
Bruce Charette, Democrat
I believe that people want transparent government and an opportunity to participate without
colorful distraction. I have served
on the Farmington Historical
Commissions (current), with
eight years of board/committee
experience. I have a commitment to the quality of life for our community. I am
dedicated to understand zoning laws and regulations
and passionate to research every zoning application.
Hilary Donald, Republican
Hilary W. Donald, AIA, is one of
the most qualified candidates
seeking a position on Farmington’s Town Plan and Zoning
Board. A Registered Architect
since 1991, she has been practicing Commercial and Residential
Architecture for 26 years in Connecticut. Her concerns for the town of Farmington
include the need for cohesive development along
major corridors and town centers, traffic management and safety, and the preservation and protection of resources such as the Farmington River and
open space.
As partner of L’ARC Architects, LLC, West Hartford, she has gained extensive knowledge of zoning
regulations, working directly with town plan and
zoning departments, and presenting projects before
town boards and commissions.
A Farmington resident since 1967, Hilary grew
up in the Unionville section of town, attended Farmington public schools and graduated from Farmington High School in 1984. She received Bachelor’s and
Master’s Degrees in Architecture from Tulane University, New Orleans, LA in 1989.
Remembering her roots, Hilary designed a town
center for Unionville, creating a pedestrian friendly
community center and amphitheater with access to
the Farmington River, including the restoration of the
Old Myrtle Mills building for her 1989 graduate thesis
project. She then returned to Farmington, married
and raised 2 boys, now graduates of Farmington High
School and currently attending college.
Hilary has demonstrated leadership as an active
volunteer in Farmington community organizations
and town boards.
She is currently serving as chairman of the
Farmington Historic District Commission. She previously sat on the Stanley-Whitman House board of
directors for 10 years, with two years as chairman, and
the Barney Library Building Committee, leading the
Interior Design sub-committee during the 2010 renovation project. She also volunteered for the Farmington Garden Club for several years and illustrated the
Farmington Visitor’s Coloring Book for the Farmington Heritage Alliance, published in 2013.
Ron Llewellyn, Republican
I am running for re-election for
the Zoning Board of Appeals
knowing that I will continue to
make a positive difference along
with my fellow board members
for the town of Farmington. I
have a propensity for problem
solving and the ability to apply
common sense to resolve issues.
Having been raised in a small New Jersey town
that has many Revolutionary War Era historical sites,
I know and believe that it is our duty to maintain a
town’s history for future generations
This position is critical to our development as
a community and I would appreciate your support.
Katy Perry, Democrat
Katy Perry did not respond to requests for a
Kerry Callahan, Republican
Kerry Callahan did not respond to requests for
ZBA alternate candidates
Jon Schoenhorn, Democrat
Jon Schoenhorn did not respond to requests
John Brockelman, Republican
John currently serves the town
of Farmington as a Zoning Board
of Appeals Alternate. He lives in
Farmington with his wife, Mearle,
and his son, Jack, who is a freshman at the University of New
Hampshire. His daughter Megan is a Junior at the University
of Delaware. A sales director for AMES Companies,
a manufacturer of lawn, garden and construction
tools, John is looking to continue his service as a
way to give back to the community. He believes that
while we have zoning regulations in place, there are
cases where the strict interpretation of them can be
amended. Formerly a coach for various sports teams
in town, John enjoys boating, attending sporting
events and spending time with his family.
Joel Nowakowski, Democrat
Joel Nowakowski did not respond to requests
Christopher Forster, Republican
My name is Christopher Forster and I am running
for Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate. Farmington’s residents
have promulgated zoning regulations to protect the character of our town. If elected I will
apply those regulations evenly,
fairly and correctly. I believe we
should preserve the character
and natural beauty of Farmington while limiting government interference with our local businesses that
support our community.
I have a degree in economics and a Master of
Public Administration from the University of Connecticut. I am a certified public finance officer and
currently work as the controller for the Connecticut
State Colleges and Universities system. My wife, Dr.
Jessica Forster, and I are proud residents of Unionville
where we live with our daughter, Delilah.
I have faithfully served on the Farmington Conservation & Inlands Wetlands Commission and the
Unionville Historic District Commission. My wife and
I are both members of the Farmington Exchange
Club, and I currently serve on their Board of Directors.
My strong professional background and dedicated community service is a great asset. I would
be honored to have your support on Nov. 3 and I’m
excited to continue serving the Farmington community on the Zoning Board of Appeals.
There are four candidates for constable: Democrat Robert Parker, Republican Diane Rogers, Democrat Zalman
Nakhimovsky and Republican Geno Aveneso
AVON
Town Council candidates
David Pena, Democrat
My family and I have lived in
Avon for 23 years. I have always
been active in volunteering and
giving back to the community.
My wife, Mardelle, and I have
two children, Zachary and Mackenzie, who are now young adults,
but both attended and graduated from Avon High School.
Over the past two decades, I have served on
many boards and commissions focused on commerce, land use, education and general community
enhancement. Prior to being elected to the Town
Council in 2007, I served as a commissioner on Planning and Zoning for nine years. I also served first as
president of the Avon Chamber of Commerce, then
as a member of the Board of Directors. My early
board experiences, my years leading the business
community, and my time on the Town Council have
helped me fully understand the unique issues and
42
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Valley Press
challenges facing Avon – and the need to work together to continue to make our town a better place
to live, work and educate our children.
As your elected town representative I will, as
always, continue to make myself accessible to all residents. My daughter Mackenzie knows all too well
that “going to a local store with my dad is never a
short trip.” She has waited patiently, many times, as I
listen to and talk with residents. It’s what I enjoy most
and it is my way of letting the residents of Avon know
that I value their opinions and input.
I never forget that I represent you and I am asking for your vote on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3.
James Speich, Republican
As residents of Avon, we have
built a community and a way
of life that always leaves me
feeling proud and thankful. If
elected to the Town Council, I
will continue to evaluate budget requests versus the ability of
all residents to shoulder the tax
burden and search out ways to decrease spending.
As a member of the Board of Finance since 2000, we
have worked together with the Board of Education
to maintain and provide an excellent school system.
October 22, 2015
Our combined meetings with the Board of Education and Town Council have proven to open lines
of communications, create new ideas and provide a
collaborative environment. We live in a great town
with extraordinary volunteer organizations. I will continue to support our town volunteer programs to
ensure our availability to these exceptional services
that keep our costs down. Times have not been easy,
and we need to continue to work together as a community to maintain Avon as the most desirable place
to live. As a Town Council member, I look forward
to working together to create an exciting vision for
the future of Avon. I am a 37-year Avon resident. I’ve
been a Board of Finance member since 2000; previous
member of the Inland Wetlands Commission, Water
Pollution Control Authority and Town Council representative to the Avon Volunteer Fire Department;
member of Avon Volunteer Fire Department since
1982; previous corporation president, captain and
lieutenant of Company Four. I am director of marketing for Pratt and Whitney Commercial Engines. I hold
an MBA from Boston University, BSME from the University of Hartford and AAS from the State University
of New York at Alfred.
Mark Zacchio, Republican
There’s no doubt Avon is a great place to live
and raise a family. Our schools
remain well funded and produce
outstanding results in the Farmington Valley and beyond, while
budgets remain balanced and
responsive to the entire community’s needs. Smart planning has
delivered boosted road paving,
equipment purchases, and school/town facilities upgrades without increased budget pressures.
When borrowing is necessary, our AAA Bond
rating recognizing fiscal excellence provides the lowest possible financing. We deliver public services in
a balanced and thoughtful manner through collaboration across the Republican led Board of Education, Board of Finance, and Town Council., as well as
through shared services with surrounding communities. If re-elected to the Town Council, I will continue
to provide and promote the leadership necessary to
continue offering balanced planning, collaborative
inter-board and town engagement, decision making,
and partnerships that represent the interests of Avon
as a whole.
My wife Debbie and I chose to make our home
in Avon because we knew, as our parents did 47 years
See AVON COUNCIL on page 43
AVON COUNCIL
from page 42
before us, that Avon offered one of the best values in
Connecticut, and also a safe and vibrant community
with a excellent educational system. I’m proud and
fortunate to serve you, and that you support my fellow Republicans and me Nov. 3.
Heather Maguire, Republican
My involvement in a variety of
organizations in Avon and the
surrounding communities has
prepared me for the challenges
of the Town Council. As a member of the Avon Town Council,
I am required to understand the
needs of our community. I recognize the importance of collaboration and teamwork as we strive to keep Avon the premiere town
in the Hartford metropolitan area. It is my goal to
remain fiscally responsible as decisions are made that
impact public safety, public works, recreational opportunities and our school system.
Properly maintaining and enhancing the infra-
AVON
Michael Oleyer, Democrat
I was born and raised in West
Hartford, graduating from Hall
High School in 1999. After high
school, I attended University of
Richmond, where I studied political science and history. I moved
back to Connecticut after college
and attended the University of
Connecticut School of Law.
My legal career began at Howd & Ludorf, LLC,
where I practiced municipal defense work. There, I
represented towns throughout Connecticut, including Avon. My experience in municipal defense work
piqued my interest in local politics. For the past two
years, I have worked at Leclair Ryan, LLC, where I practice a variety of litigation defense work.
My wife, Katie (previously Katie Gordon), was
raised in Avon, and is a proud member of the 2001
Avon High School graduating class. She is currently
an emergency room nurse at St. Francis Hospital. Our
1-year-old daughter, Grace, can’t wait to follow her
mother’s footsteps into the Avon public school sys-
Jackie Blea, Democrat
When my husband, Vince, and I
moved to Connecticut 13 years
ago, we fell in love with Avon;
we are grateful to live here and
to raise our four children, 19, 17,
15 and 12, in such a beautiful
place. What keeps us in Avon is
the community – it’s one that
comes together to support causes, participate in discussions, celebrate successes, and lifts up neighbors
in need. It’s a town where residents care passionately
about their schools, reveling in successes and taking
on challenges. We, no doubt, face some very public
challenges in our schools right now, and, although we
have a lot to be proud of, we also have some work
to do.
As a parent of four schoolchildren and an active
volunteer, I’ve led initiatives to make our schools better for all children. For example, I successfully: initiated and advocated for fair and inclusive GPA policies
and course level equity at Avon High School; lobbied
for compliant reporting and protection of privacy for
special education students; started the Urban/Suburban Alliance in an effort to grow, support and nurture meaningful and beneficial relationships between
structure of our town is paramount to our continued success. Careful capital budgeting, as well as the
careful management of our debt service will
enable us to continue to be a fiscally strong town.
I have continued my leadership role in the PTO as
co-president at Thompson Brook and as an executive
board member at Avon High School. I see firsthand
the extraordinary opportunities our children have
available to them. We are fortunate to have many
citizen volunteers that work hard to provide the best
possible environment for our children. Through the continued collaboration of all our
Republican-led boards we maintain and exceed the
quality of life that we have come to expect in the
town of Avon. As a community, we must maintain
and improve upon the standards and practices we
have grown accustomed to and pass them on to future generations. I’m a 17-year Avon resident. I’ve been on the
Town Council since 2013; Board of Assessment Appeals (until 2013); PTO (2008-2015) at Thompson
Brook School (president 2015, VP 2014) and Roaring
Brook School (president four years, and other board
roles); past president, Avon Junior Women’s Club
tem (and into Avon sports lore).
My wife and I moved to Avon in 2012, and I
immediately got involved with the local community.
I was elected to the Avon Zoning Board of Appeals
two years ago, in 2013. For the past two years, I have
been a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals,
which keeps me up to date with a variety of local
issues. I am dedicated to the town of Avon, and I
would like to continue my public service to the community on the Board of Finance. I am a good listener
and problem solver, and I will be a welcome addition
to the Board of Finance. I will support fiscally responsible decisions to move Avon forward assuring your
tax dollars are spent prudently and on the things
bringing the most value to our town.
Please vote Oleyer in the upcoming election.
Tom Harrison, Republican
Avon benefits from a government that makes decisions
based on merit not politics, that
relies on facts not emotions, that
plans ahead rather than reacts,
and that uses your tax dollars
wisely and carefully.
I’m a longtime Avon resident. I’ve been a member of the Board of Finance, chair
since 2002. I earned my J.D. from Fordham Law
School and BA from Holy Cross College. I’m a past
in-district and out-of-district students. My experience as a school volunteer, coupled
with a degree in communications and eight years of
non-profit event planning experience, prepare me
well for a seat on the Avon Board of Education. If
elected, I will seek input and insight from my fellow
residents and I will be fully accessible and responsive
in return. I will make thoughtful, informed and fair
decisions that reflect the values of our community
and respect fiscal limits. I will always put children and
their education first.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to
earn your vote. Please contact me with any questions,
suggestions or concerns.
Ames Shea, Republican
During my four-year term, I’ve
worked diligently to make informed decisions that were
always made with the best interests of students in mind. Our
policies ensure Avon’s schools remain successful as evidenced by
the numerous achievements by
our schools and our students. Curriculum has been
aligned through grades and across schools, yielding
national attention and other school districts seeking
to emulate our results in their own curriculum.
We’ve developed system efficiencies that saved
(four years); vice chair, Avon Education Foundation
Board; Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Gala
Auction co-chair (three years); past co-leader, Girl
Scouts; past team manager, Avon Soccer Club; past
boys basketball coach, Parks & Recreation. I hold a
B.S. in management/economics from Salve Regina
University. I’m married to my usband, Jeff, and have
three children at Avon High School and Thompson
Brook School.
William Stokesbury, Republican
Great schools and town services
help define Avon. As a member
of the Town Council, I will continue my efforts to preserve and
enhance the quality of all town
services. I remain dedicated to
maintaining, and improving,
Avon’s outstanding quality of life
for all its residents at a reasonable cost to its taxpayers.
The Town Council, working together with
the Board of Education and Board of Finance, must
continue our long history of developing and implementing thoughtful, reasonable budgets that meet
chairman, Connecticut Council on Environmental
Quality, serve on the Saint Ann’s Parish Council, am
a member of the Avon Volunteer Fire Department
LOSAP Board. I practiced environmental law in the
N.Y. attorney general’s office, United States Environmental Protection Agency, a Fortune 300 manufacturing company, and a major Hartford law firm.
I teach environmental law at UConn, Storrs.
I’m married to my wife, Lorraine, and have four adult
children (two attended Avon public schools and one
taught at Avon High School for three years), and two
grandchildren who attend Avon public schools.
Dean Hamilton, Republican
Avon has an exceptional quality
of life, thanks to the volunteers
who support our town such as
our firefighters, scout leaders,
sports coaches, as well as school,
charitable, veteran, worship, history, land and community support organizations. For 14 years
I’ve enjoyed being part of this vibrant community.
In addition to my past four years of service on
the Board of Finance, I also volunteer with the Cub
Scouts (Pack 122), Boy Scouts (Troop 274) and West
Avon Congregational Church. Contributing greatly to
Avon’s quality of life are the Board of Finance, Board
of Education and Town Council. The continuing
money and allowed our reinvestment of those savings into new technology and student programs,
such as increased world languages, AP course selections and a new internship program that integrates
Avon’s high school seniors into real world working
environments. All this success was achieved in a fiscally responsible and efficient way and with consistently requested low budget increases.
Avon continues to have the best SAT scores
of any schools in Hartford County and has out-performed neighboring districts in the new SBAC testing. In post graduation surveys, our students have responded that they felt more prepared than many of
their peers for college. Like I did 15 years ago, people
continue to come to Avon to raise families because
of our outstanding schools.
Running a $50M school system is not easy,
yet through collaboration between our board and
school employees over the last four years, we have
kept Avon schools among Connecticut’s best. I hope
you’ll re-elect the people who’ve worked tirelessly to
achieve these results.
I’m a 15-year Avon resident and have been an
Avon Board of Education member since 2012; negotiations chair and communications, strategic planning
and curriculum member.
I’m a specialty insurance underwriter at Chubb
Insurance; substitute teacher, Avon schools – 200911; practiced law in Connecticut and Pennsylvania;
the needs of our residents and maintain our infrastructure without unnecessary expenses or debt.
Our modest budgets, low bond debt and unsurpassed bond ratings help set us apart from other
less disciplined communities. Today, Avon has a high
performing school system, great town services, well
maintained public buildings, and improved roads.
Our success has been built on one thoughtful decision after another by our Republican-led town government. Vote Republican to ensure Avon’s continued success as a great town in which to live and work.
I’m a 28-year Avon resident. I’ve been a Avon
Town Council, member since 2013; Avon Board of
Education, member 2005-13 and vice chair 2012-13;
multi-year chair of the BOE’s Budget, Capital Budget
and Contract Negotiations Committees; BOE liaison
to Board of Finance 2012-23; Avon Historical Society
President 2000-04; Avon Chamber of Commerce
1998 Community Volunteer of the Year. I am a managing partner at Stokesbury, Shipman & Fingold, LLC
– Attorneys, Farmington. I hold a B.A. from Yale University and a J.D. from the Boston University School
of Law. I’m married with two children: one at Tufts,
one at Avon High School.
open communication among these Republican-led
boards creates a collaboration that delivers comprehensive budgets that are pragmatic, responsible and
realistic. During my tenure, I’ve witnessed how that
teamwork has enabled more budget agreement and
some of the smallest tax increases in years.
As taxpayers, we separate our needs from
our wants with our own budgets. We may come at
it from different perspectives, but each of us has a
vested interest in improving Avon. I focus on Avon’s
motto: “Provide quality town services at a reasonable
cost to all citizens and taxpayers.”
My higher education background (B.A., Cornell
University, economics; M.B.A., University of Chicago,
finance) and business experience (entrepreneurial to
Fortune 100 companies; technology, manufacturing,
materials sectors) provides me the proper perspective into the details and complexities that give insight
into our community’s dynamics.
If re-elected to the Board of Finance, I will continue working so that each of us has an equal voice
in supporting and improving Avon’s well-deserved
reputation for excellence.
I’m a 14-year Avon resident and a member of
the Board of Finance since 2011. I’m married to my
wife, Cathie and have two children Colin (grade 7,
Avon Middle School) and Daniel (grade 5, Thompson Brook School).
earned a Bachelor of Arts from Denison Univ. 1990
and a Juris Doctor from Washington and Lee University School of Law, 1993.
I’m married to my husband, John, with two children, Madeline (grade nine, AHS) and Daniel (grade
eight, AMS).
Debra Chute, Democrat
Thriving schools are the heart of
a healthy town. In Avon, they are
what attract new homeowners
and keep them here. As a resident for 10 years and the mother
of three Avon schoolchildren, I
am fully vested in the future of
our schools and our town.
Neighbors and parents asked me to run for the
Board of Education because they know my style of
leadership will be an asset: I work well with others. I
make informed, deliberate decisions. I value efficiency
and seek excellence. I am compassionate.
Taxpayers want schools run with prudence,
efficiency and transparency. Parents want educating
their children to be the first priority of the school
system. All residents want their representatives to
seek and hear their input. Informed decisions can
only be made when all facts and perspectives are
October 22, 2015
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The
Valley Press
43
AVON BOE
from page 43
valued and openly discussed. Recently, the Board of
Education has not operated that way. I would like to
change that.
For the last decade, I have been an active PTO
volunteer including a term as co-president, and I sat
on the Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Board. I
have led various school initiatives including hosting
parent events to inform them about school programs and answer concerns. Open communication
was a driving force in all of these.
I graduated from Mount Holyoke College with
a B.A. in political science and spent my early career
as the child advocate for a nonprofit organization. I
now own a portrait photography business in town.
My experience working with children and running a
small business have prepared me for the challenges of
a Board of Education seat.
With your vote, I look forward to collaborating
with colleagues and constituents to make Avon and
its schools shine. I am available to hear your ideas and
insights any time.
Brian Glenn, Republican
I have proudly served my community for the past four years
as a member of the Avon Board
of Education and participated
in various subcommittees such
as: Audit where we worked with
Avon’s independent accounting
firm to oversee the official examination of all the board of education’s accounts,
while keeping a sensible spending plan and on track
budget on track. Alternative Resources where we explored
new funding sources and developed innovative approaches to add value and expanded programs (such
as collaborating with local business and community groups to offer students Internships and Junior
Achievement opportunities.
Regional Services where we explored innovative
ways to share municipal and regional services for the
purpose of reducing costs resulting in expanded programs and offerings.
Capital Regional Education Council where as a
representative I helped create a mutually beneficial
educational environment, including seeing the opening of the Reggio Magnet School in Avon.
Recently, I also served on the Pre-K Subcommittee to serve the needs of our youngest students. I believe that it is possible for our community
to work together with good communication to produce a school system that offers our youth the best
education possible – while also remaining fiscally responsible to the taxpayer.
AVON
Stephen Hunt, Republican
I’m a longtime resident of Avon (34 years)
and Avon High School graduate. I have served on
the Avon Board of Education since 2012; member
of Alternative Resources, Regional Services & Audit
Committees; Avon Board of Education C.R.E.C. Representative; Avon Clean Energy Commission, 2010present.
I’m a legal assistant at the law offices of Timothy
M. Lodge.
I attended the University of Hartford.
Previous experience includes: Bristol Board of
Assessment Appeals, 2005-07; member, Bristol Board
of Educ., 1999-2003; chairman, Bristol BOE Gifted
Commission; chairman, Bristol BOE Transportation
Commission; board member, Capitol Regional Education Council, 2002-03; past work in Special Ed. field
(state and private); Special Olympics and Challenger
volunteer.
Wendy Howard, Democrat
My family moved to Avon in
1996 because of the reputation
of the Avon Public Schools.
My children, now 20, 25 and 26
years old, graduated from Avon
High School. I volunteered in
the schools as room parent, PTO
vice president and president,
and as Booster Club secretary. I served on the CC4A
board, and as ACORN vice-president to rebuild and
light the AMS tennis courts.
In 2011, I was elected to serve on Board of Education. I am currently board secretary and serve on
the Communications, Alternative Resources, Preschool Oversight (co-chair) and Personnel (negotiating union contracts and other tasks) committees.
With my children out of the schools, I considered retiring from the board; however, I am extremely concerned about recent events – poor decisions
being made, our high school ranking declining, newcomers to the Farmington Valley looking at other
towns due to negative press. Our children’s education, our property values and our reputation are at
stake.
I spoke out about the way our preschool program was hurt by bad decisions, leading to my appointment as co-chair of the committee to oversee
its recovery. I spoke out against the decision to eliminate social workers. I have questioned the way we are
using the Open Choice funds we receive. And I am
asking you to re-elect me to the Board of Education
so we can resolve these issues and so I can continue
to fight for what is right.
Help me represent YOU. ... VOTE on Nov. 3, or
cast an absentee ballot, for all five Democratic candidates so we have the majority support needed to
restore our schools to the way they were when my
are open, clear and educational in nature, we help the
members of our taxpaying community understand
the tax assessment process, including the appeals
process. We are fortunate in Avon to have such an
exceptional community capable of supporting such
a vibrant and diverse base of properties.
- Current Board Member
- Life & Health Sales at The Pawson Group
- Central Connecticut State University
Samuel D. Chester, Republican
- Attorney at Samuel D. Chester, LLC - Avon, CT
- J.D. - California Western School of Law ; B.S. University of Wisconsin - Madison Laura A Mensi, Republican
- Realtor at Berkshire Hathaway - Avon, CT
- Northeastern University
As incumbent members of the Avon Board of
Assessment Appeals we strive to deliver equity, fairness and transparency for all of Avon’s citizens/taxpayers. By ensuring that our board’s communications
44
The
Valley Press
Chet Bukowski, Democrat
I have been a resident of the
Farmington Valley for 37 years,
the last five in Avon. As a result,
I know and understand the special concerns of our community
regarding property standards
and values. As an attorney in
private practice in the Hartford
area since 1977, I have concentrated on civil litigation
with an emphasis on construction-related matters. I
have represented contractors, design professionals,
owners, including UConn, and surety companies in
a wide variety of cases. My training and experience
as an arbitrator, mediator and Superior Court attorney trial referee well equip me to handle the kinds of
October 22, 2015
children attended. Ask your friends and neighbors to
do the same.
I am committed to the future of Avon and available always to hear your questions or suggestions.
Jeff Bernetich, Republican
My family and I have enjoyed the
benefits of living in this wonderful town. The schools are top-rated and, if elected, I intend to continue the tradition of excellence.
The success of the school system
needs to be a collaborative effort
of the elected officials, administration, educators and citizens of our community.
During my four years on the Board of Education
I can honestly say we have had tremendous success
keeping Avon’s public school system among the top
rated districts in the entire state of Connecticut. As
a small business owner, I see the strong value in
the new internship program we’ve developed that
has integrated over 80 of Avon’s high school seniors
into actual real world working environments with
local businesses. That experience, together with the
strong educational foundation Avon’s schools provide, will provide our students the greatest opportunity to succeed in whatever endeavors they pursue
later in life.
I am also proud of the success we have had
through hard work and collaboration both within
our town and our district to identify opportunities to
develop efficiencies in our school system to reduce
costs and expand program offerings for our students.
In addition to increasing world languages through all
grades, plus adding more advanced placement courses, we have provided over 20 new elective offerings
for our students.
While these efforts are not without costs, by
application of a strong fiscal discipline to seek efficient and creative ways to deliver quality education
to our entire student community, we have been fortunate to deliver top performing schools all within
consistently low requested budget increases.
I look forward to serving the community for
another term, and ask for your support, as well as for
support for my fellow Republican board members,
Nov. 3.
Laura Young, Democrat
Nine years ago, my family moved
to Avon because of the reputation of its schools and my family’s roots here. Our two sons,
Connor, a junior at UConn, and
Jack, a freshman at James Madison University, were well prepared for college by the Avon
problems and disputes that come before a body such
as the Zoning Board of Appeals. My goal is to find
common ground between parties in order to equitably resolve their disputes. If they can’t be resolved, my
ability to analyze complex legal issues enables me to
rule on their cases fairly and efficiently.
I am a Connecticut native, resident of Avon for
five years, Simsbury for 27 years. I have been married
for 33 years. I am a former partner in several Hartford
law firms and currently employed in private practice
as a legal consultant. I serve as Superior Court Attorney trial referee. I hold a B.A. with Honors, Phi Beta
Kappa, from Trinity College and a J.D. from Columbia
University Law School.
I am a former Parish Council member and active
parishioner at St. Catherine of Siena, West Simsbury.
Stephen Vicino, Republican
- Current Board Alternate
- Real Estate and Business Services
Brian J. Ladouceur Jr., Republican
- Chair & Current Board Member
- Claims Counsel, Construction Services
- J.D. Western New England University ; B.S.
University of Connecticut
Public Schools. I am running to win a seat on the
Board of Education because I want to ensure that
present and future schoolchildren have as good – or
better – a learning experience as my sons had. Based
on some of the board’s recent decisions and behaviors, however, I am concerned this might not happen.
While my children attended Avon schools, I
was an active volunteer, serving on the Avon High
School PTO Executive Board for four years. I hold a
B.A. in English from the University of Richmond and
a Master’s in social work from New York University.
My career has centered on nonprofit development,
as well as working with children and families in various settings. I am passionate about education and leveraging resources to support teaching and learning.
In 2012, as president of the Avon Community Recreational Neighborhood Inc. (ACORN), we
rallied community stakeholders to invest in new
tennis courts at Avon Middle School that benefit all
residents. As secretary of the Avon Land Trust from
2009-14, I was actively involved in preserving and protecting open space.
Fellow volunteers and colleagues in the workplace appreciate my ability to dig deep into issues, to
seek and value differing points of view, and to determine solutions based on best practices. I am quick to
engage but slow to quit. I hope to bring that energy
and passion to the Board of Education with your help
and your vote. Please contact me anytime to discuss
your interest in our schools.
Houston Putnam Lowry, Democrat
I have served on the Avon Board
of Education for nearly 10 years
and currently chair its audit committee. The audit committee requires the auditors to meet with
us annually to discuss the progress of their audit and to discuss
their management letter once
the audit is complete. We have implemented better
financial controls to ensure financial accountability.
I remain active on the policy committee and
the personnel committee (which negotiates all contracts with labor unions). The policy committee reviews every policy (there are literally hundreds) for
the district and ensures we keep up with changes in
the laws. I often chair expulsion meetings.
Although I have no children, I passionately believe in education. I have a particular interest in gifted students, who often seem to be overlooked. For
the first time, the Avon school system now identifies
gifted students. The next step is to provide additional
instructional support for gifted students. I work at the law firm of Polivy, Taschner, Lowry
& Clayton, LLC in Hartford.
Mackenzie A. Johnson,
Republican
- Current Board Alternate
- Marketing Professional
- Gettysburg College ; Avon High School
Graduate
As members serving on the Avon Zoning Board
of Appeals, and having lived in Avon for many years,
we’ve seen growth in our town despite troubling
economic times in Connecticut and nationally. Our
responsibility as elected board members is to support
responsible new development and improvement of
existing property so long as those actions do not interfere with their surrounding neighbors and maintains the fine character of the town of Avon. One of
the rewarding aspects of our service to Avon is seeing
new homeowners (to which there are many) and
even longtime residents (who seek to improve their
homes in support of a growing family or to care for
an elderly parent) come before our board and leave
having a greater respect and appreciation for what an
exceptional community we have and seek to protect.

October 22, 2015

Transcription

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