SOUT_2011_08_26_p01.qxp (Page 1)
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SOUT_2011_08_26_p01.qxp (Page 1)
Volume 36, No. 34 Southington’s only locally produced paper Mary our Queen Church set to celebrate 50 years, Page 3 Friday, August 26, 2011 Southington private school bus routes, Page 30 Mike Raczka pitches his way into the Southington Sports Hall of Fame, Page 20 Middle school plans approved Getting a little help School board signs off on renovations By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer The Board of Education gave their final approval to the revised plan to renovate Kennedy and DePaolo Middle Schools, following the reductions by the Board of Finance. While the BOF was supportive of the plan and voted to send it to the Town Council, the officials also feared the original $100 million cost was asking too much of the taxpayers and reduced the project’s budget to $85 million. The vote was unanimous and the officials said the architects from Fletcher Thompson had adapted well to the new numbers. “They did a very nice job in maintaining a good, solid educational environ- ment,” said board member David Derynoski. Superintendent Dr. Joseph Erardi had said previously that in order to reduce the budget, there would have to be less “new” construction, which refers to additional rooms and areas that were going to be added as part of the process See MIDDLE SCHOOLS, page 17 New United Way committee is set By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer TAMMI KNAPIK Teachers across the district have spent the last several days preparing their classrooms for an influx of new students. Above, Kelley School second grade teachers prepare a classroom, with a little help. Pictured, from left, Taylor Kelly (Lisa's daughter), Jenn Manware, Lindsay Veronneau, Lynn Potamis, Jared Kelly (Lisa's son), Micaela Potamis (Lynn's daughter) and Lisa Kelly. Teachers ready their classrooms Staff Writer As another school year begins, teachers in Southington are preparing themselves and their classrooms for their incoming students. Many adopt “themes” for their room and some teachers, especially ones who deal with younger kids, have to be prepared for a variety of different reactions when the school day begins. Regina Albee, a kindergarten teacher at Strong School, sees reactions from her young students that range from wild excitement to extreme anxiety. “Sometimes, they look like they might have a “ I’m working towards a theme of respect and development of social skills. “ By ROB GLIDDEN Karin Fortin, Teacher at Strong School stroke,” Albee said. “I try to keep everything happy and bright. My theme is growing because they will bloom in here.” The “blooming” idea became literal thanks to a grant from the Southington Education Foundation. Albee plans to guide her students through a project involving planting and composting. Thalberg School firstgrade teacher Kim Angelillo authored welcome letters to each of the kids in her incoming class, hoping that would help build some excitement and calm nerves. “First graders are nervous because it’s their first full day, but there’s some excitement mixed in there,” Angelillo said. “I’m going See SCHOOLS, page 16 Southington’s United Way has launched a new youth committee meant to connect the organization to the town’s teens. “We wanted to be more connected with an age group that we provide services for,” said United Way Director Carol Reilly. “They also are the go-to people for social media and we’re starting to look into that.” Five teens have been named to the “UKnighted Way Committee,” a reference to the Southington High School mascot. Advising them is Social Studies teacher Kevin Curtiss, also a member of the United Way’s Board of Directors. He passed out information about the committee during his classes to find out who might be interested. “I saw it as a great opportunity to give back to the community so I told Mr. Curtiss that I would absolutely want to help out,” said committee member Stephen Barmore. Barmore said he plans to help make the Southington United Way a presence on Facebook, while fellow committee See UNITED WAY, page 17 SUBMITTED School donations Backpacks that are part of the program set up 10 years ago through the Southington Community Services Department were given out earlier this week. The program is directed by Janet Mellon and produces about 300 backpacks with a value of about $75 and a voucher to Walmart for clothing. All supplies are obtained by donations. Above, are Melissa Reid, left, Anna Terrill, center, Ashley Zerbe. 2 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 WW II vets sought for arrival of planes World War II veterans are invited to attend and participate in a three-day commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor catapulting the United States of American into World War II. This early commemoration will begin on Friday, Sept. 8 at the Waterbury/ Oxford Airport (exit 16 on I84) with the arrival of three World War II combat aircrafts, scheduled to arrive approximately 12:30 to 1 p.m. The aircrafts are a fourengine B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber, a B-24 Liberator four-engine bomber and a P-51 Mustang fighter. World War II veterans and air crew members are invited to attend without charge and requested to bring military memorabilia, photographs, maps and related mementos. Veterans are also invited to attend the aircraft exhibit on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10 and 11 during the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tables and chairs will be available for veterans to be seated. It is expected that one or two air crew who bailed out of their damaged aircraft will be able to attend. The public is encouraged to attend with their children and meet members of the “Greatest Generation,” now 85 to 92 years old. Air crew members are asked to call Walter Hushak, (860) 276-0749, indicating their interest. There is an admission charge for the public to attend. At right, the World War II planes coming to Waterbury/ Oxford Airport in September. Local businessmen come together to create a PAC Infinity Home care met at The New Mill Restaurant on Tuesday , August 9 to discuss and appoint members to its (PAC) Professional Advisory Committee. Infinity Homecare is located on Main Street in Plantsville, and is an affiliate of The Nurse Network Companies. According to David DiNeno, the President and co-founder of The Nurse Network Companies, the purpose of this meeting was to invite professional members of our community to participate in the development and implementation of company policies and procedures . Connecticut regulatory statutes mandate that any organization that is licensed to provide medical care to Connecticut residents in their homes, or place of residence, must appoint a PAC, and meet at least semi-annually to discuss matters of policy, and operations of the homecare agency. Mr. Dineno stated, “I am particularly pleased with the professionals who attended and the quality of their input. We invited some very influential and well respected members of our healthcare community. We are delighted that they would spend their time assisting us in our efforts to provide the greater Southington/Cheshire area with a valuable resource for care at home.” Those in attendance were David DiNeno, Joan Zukauskas; RN Homecare Administrator, Mark Rakauskas,Vice President, The Nurse Network, Dr Steven Hanks; MD executive VP, Chief Medical Officer, The Hospital of Central Connecticut, Robert Verderame, Executive Director, Calendar House, Southington Senior Services, Edward Jamele; co-founder Athena Healthcare, Andy Annunziata; lifelong Southington Resident and Homecare consumer, Hollis Hartman; Senior Living Advisor, A Place for Mom, Christine Cianciola, RN Homecare Supervisor, Corrine Schwartz, BSN RN; Nurse Consultant. Infinity Homecare is the newest division of The Nurse Network Companies. The Nurse Network established in 1996 by David YOUR VISION, OUR We look forward to becoming a valuable source for information and services to those in need.” Infinity Homecare is scheduling a follow up meeting in the coming weeks. Anyone interested in attending can contact Joan Zukauskas at 628-2990. Designs Point & Click Read it all on the Web. www.SouthingtonObserver.com ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ REROOFS ◼ TEAROFFS SKYLIGHTS ◼ REPAIRS SIDING ◼ GUTTERS MOBILE HOME & ROOFING REPAIRS ALL WORK GUARANTEED IN WRITING YEARS EXPERIENCE policies regarding the delivery of healthcare services changes, so must we. Our familiarity with the people and the needs of Southington make this an obvious endeavor. Already, many friends and community members have reached out for help in their efforts to care for their loved ones. www.SouthingtonObserver.com NORTHEAST ROOFING, LLC 29 DiNeno, has provided staffing to hospitals, longterm care facilities, private duty and many other venues. “The ever-growing need for community based healthcare is our motivation for this exciting new division,” Dineno said. “As our community ages, and the VOTED BEST Roofing (860) 621-8077 FREE ESTIMATES • Fully Insured. Lic # 551271 • All Major Credit Cards Accepted GRANITE, MARBLE, QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS CUSTOM FABRICATION & INSTALLATION TUB SURROUNDS TILE BACK SPLASHES FIREPLACE SURROUNDS NATURAL STONE TILE GRILL TOPS Summer CLEARANCEE SALE FREE ESTIMATES Granite & Quartzz Countertops andd Naturall Stonee Tile SHOWROOM: 355 Farmington Ave., Plainville, CT 860.410.4291 • [email protected] Southington The Observer, USPS# 025-218, is Published weekly by The Step Saver, Inc., 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489. Phone: 860-628-9438 Fax: 860-621-1841 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means, mechanical or electronic, without the expressed consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, staff or advertisers of The Observer. The return of unsolicited manuscripts or other material cannot be guaranteed. Periodicals postage paid at Southington, CT and additional offices. Free by request to local residents. Postmaster: Send changes of address to Southington The Observer: 213 Spring St, Southington, CT 06489 Friday, August 26, 2011 •Controversial Busway...page 4 News •Teacher Scene........page 15 •Sports...........page 21 Our Town Mary Our Queen to celebrate 50 years Staff Writer Mary Our Queen Catholic Church will celebrate 50 years in Southington during an anniversary event on Saturday, September 24. Located on Savage Street, the church was an offshoot of the even older St. Thomas Catholic Church, which celebrated its 150th birthday last year. “The parishioners began the church mainly because of the overpopulation at St. Thomas,” said parishioner Robin Taillie, who is coordinating the anniversary celebration. “They realized they needed a church closer to the Southeast part of town.” The event, starting at noon, will include a ministry fair, music performances, a buffet and a jubilee mass with the Knights of Columbus 15 Honor Guard at 5:00 pm. Commemorative memorabilia, including T- Town feels tremors By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer Southington residents briefly felt the earth move on Tuesday afternoon, as an earthquake in Virginia was felt all along the East Coast. Preliminary reports from seismologists classified the magnitude of the earthquake in Virginia at 5.8 on the Richter Scale. In Southington, the activity began shortly before 2 pm and continued for about a minute. Sergeant Lowell DePalma, spokesman for the Southington Police Department, said that the department had gotten about 20 calls immediately after the quake and continued for some time afterwards. “They’re calling like crazy,” he said. Editor Ed Harris contributed to this story. LOCAL ELECTRICIAN FREE ESTIMATES COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL NO JOB TOO SMALL , LIC # E1-0195696 TAMMI KNAPIK not return calls for comment. Parishioners are advised the RSVP at masses beginning on Sunday, September 11. Heating.Air Conditioning Sales & Service THINKING OF FILING BANKRUPTCY... BUT DON'T KNOW IF YOU QUALIFY UNDER THE NEW RULES 860-621-6295 * $ 10 off Most people with consumer debts are still likely to qualify under the new Bankruptcy rules and still able to keep their house and automobiles! Visit our web site (www.T-VLaw.com) for more answers to common Chapter 7 Bankruptcy questions. Service Call or Service Plan CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION. FREE THOMPSON, VOLLONO & DONOVAN, LLC ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW 860-518-6335 FULLY INSURED Tree Stump Grinding shirts, medallions and other trinkets, will be on sale. First constructed in 1961, the first mass was held in 1963. The anniversary celebration is actually coinciding with the first major renovation to the building. The sanctuary will be under heavy construction during the celebration, meaning that the mass will be held in a different part of the church. Some parishioners are old enough to remember the early days of the church. Interviews with them, conducted by younger church members, will be showcased during the celebration. “It’s a nice project for the youth of our parish,” Taillie said. “Not only do they learn about it, but they get to talk to people who remember what it was like.” Father Waine Kargul did Service Plans Available 49 Broad Street, Plainville, Connecticut 06062 860-747-5745 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed 117266 By ROB GLIDDEN * System Diagnostic Lic # S1-400300, S1-400301, SM1-5943 www.ductworkshvac.com OVER 50 YEARS OF BANKRUPTCY EXPERIENCE *Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must mention coupon when scheduling appointment. Expires 8-31-2011. FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED • OVER 36 YEARS EXPERIENCE LLC Roland Greenwood Phone: 860-485-6960 :KHQ LW¶V)LUVW6XQGD\ Our Workmanship is 100% Warranteed for 25 years ,W·V 7LPH WR YLVLW First Lutheran Church 9:30 Service & Sunday School 01/01/11 WWW.FELCS.ORG I-84 Ex 30 North on RT10 to 232 Bristol Street Southington 860 628-9001 tive Competiing Pric 26 Yearsce Experienricing Honest ePn Costs No HiddCourteous Clean &stallers In • Roofing Experts Thank You • Vinyl Siding for Voting Us • Windows THE BEST • Seamless ROOFING CONTRACTOR Gutters SS0811 Peaceful enough for the parents, <HW « Exciting enough for the kids ! Expires 9-9-11 4 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 Controversial busway touted as job creator NEW BRITAIN - The proposed busway connecting New Britain to Hartford gained a sudden injection of support recently as about 150 unionized tradesmen rallied outside an August 11 hearing on the $567 million, 9.4-mile bus line. Several speakers during the rally touted the controversial project as a job creator, pointing out that the project is projected to put 4,100 people to work building the busway between this fall and 2014, the date of the project’s expected completion. Inside the auditorium where the hearing was held on the campus of Central Connecticut State University, opponents who had attempted to stack the hall with speakers bent on criticizing the busway were met with more supporters many of whom had no apparent ties to the tradesmen. The auditorium quickly hit its capacity of 250 people, and many were turned away at the door. The busway is planned as a road that would allow bus traffic only and would provide a 20-minute travel time between New Britain and Hartford. Although there are just 11 transit stations planned on the busway itself, several express buses - including the Cheshire- Southington express and a new Waterbury express bus would feed into the line, as would shuttles from Bristol, the University of Connecticut Health Center, Westfarms Mall in Farmington and CCSU. Opponents like Bob Guffey railed against the busway as an expensive “boondoggle” that will prove a waste of taxpayer money that is being “forcefed” on state residents who will never use the rapid transit option. But few opponents raised any other issues directly related to the project, such as safety, environmental impact or demand for such a busway. “Please tell me why taxes from New York and Ohio should be confiscated to fund a daily commute for residents of New Britain,” said Guffey, explaining that it did not matter to him that the federal government was funding 80 percent of the project because all money expended would be taxpayer funds. “Just what about ‘We don’t have the money’ don’t you understand?” Considering the state’s significant budget problems, it’s the wrong time for Connecticut to throw money at a $570 million bus way linking New Britain to Hartford, state Rep. Rob Sampson said in a press release shortly following the hearing. Sampson, who represents Wolcott and Southington in the General Assembly, is among the leading opponents of the proposed bus route, which will see Connecticut chip in roughly $113 million toward the overall cost. Though federal funds will cover the balance, the state would be responsible for an estimated $8 million per year to maintain the service once construction is finished, Sampson said. “It makes little sense to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on this project knowing full well that we’ll eventually have to rely on overtaxed residents to keep the bus way running,” Sampson said. “It’s time to act responsibly and use a bit of common sense. We can’t continue to spend money taxpayers don’t have.” Southington’s state Senator Joe Markely is also staunchly against the proposed bus route. Supporters of the ☑ ROOFING Our windows ☑ SIDING are eligible for a ☑ WINDOWS Tax Credit of up to $1,500 ☑ DOORS ☑ GUTTERS ☑ DOWNSPOUTS ☑ and so much more! Southington state Rep. Rob Sampson voiced his displeasure with the proposed busway during a recent hearing. busway did seek to make points about economic development, however, saying improving transportation infrastructure would help attract businesses, create jobs over the long term and encourage commuters to stay off what Department of Transportation officials said is an overburdened Interstate 84. David Morris, who identified himself as a developer, said his company has bought buildings nearby the proposed busway route because they knew the transportation option would prove attractive to potential tenants. “This will create longterm stable economic development that will never go away because the transit is there,” Morris said. Other supporters included Carolle Andrews, the UConn Health Center’s chief administrative officer, who said 350,000 visits at the health center each year were from people who live in towns along the route, and Al Victor, a resident who said he looks forward to the bus line because it would provide easier access to Hartford. “To be able to go in and have a bus to go and get to where I need to go in the heart of downtown Hartford and not have to look for a parking space ... this is the thing to do,” Victor said. “I applaud the state of Connecticut for doing something for the people of Connecticut and not New York or Boston. We’re in Connecticut. Let’s do things for Connecticut.” Meanwhile, supporters and opponents displayed dueling signs that read either “Block the bus” or “Get on the bus.” Michael Sanders, the public transit administrator who has worked on the project for nearly 15 years, acknowledged the high cost of the busway but argued the most viable alternative - widening I-84 - is far more expensive. He also said the time saved for the 5,000 new riders the busway would create, including 400 from Waterbury and Cheshire, makes the project worthwhile. “The benefit to residents is it will be very effective at managing congestion,” Sanders said “We can justify the expense because we’ve compared ourselves with other projects around the country and it does compare very favorably.” Sanders did not tell the audience how much the busway is expected to cost to operate, but he said the state is expected to subsidize the project with about $7 million annually. Even with that cost, Sanders argued it was cheaper than maintaining added lanes to I-84 or other mass transportation options. Opponents have argued the project’s cost of “$1,000 per inch” is too high. “The cost estimates have been scrutinized well beyond the detail we think they need to be (because of federal oversight) and they passed,” Sanders said. “If you take 5,000 hours of travel time saved daily multiplied by the lifetime of the project of 30 years, I think you’ll find it’s much more cost effective.” Editor Ed Harris contributed to this report. Send us your letters! We welcome letters to the editor from all of our readers. Send your letter to editor Ed Harris at [email protected], or mail them to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday for the following week’s edition. The editor reserves the right to edit all letters for length or grammatical errors. Quality y is s ourr Priority Come check our caring staff at our new location Replace that old HVAC system in your home today and get up to $1,000 in rebates and incentives* *Certain restrictions apply –Same Day Service– AC/Boiler/Furnace Replacement In Stock 31 Years Experience FREE E EXAM IS NOW HERE! NO METAL WIRES OR BRACKET New w patientss onlyy with h appointment • Roofing • Flat Roofing • Roof Cleaning/ Mold & Mildew Windows & Doors 860-589-5155 www.familydentalofsouthington.com Familyy Dentall Practicee off Southington Come check out our state of the art facility FULLY INSURED • REFERENCES • REG #542454 Email: [email protected] Rob Sampson, Southington state Rep. SUBMITTED Full time Hygienist on Staff Implant Placement Restoration & Maintenance Serving the community for over 30 Years Call the Pro “Bobby O” at “ It’s time to act responsibly and use a bit of common sense. We can’t continue to spend money taxpayers don’t have. “ By KEVIN LITTEN Special to The Observer www.odonnellbros.com 248 N. Main St. Southington • 860 621-2644 M-W 8-5, Tues. & Thurs. 9-6, Fri. 8-4 VOTED ONE OF THE BEST “Billy” • • • • • Oil & Gas Systems Central A/C Personal Service Free Estimates 24 Hour Emergency Service • Financing Available • Installation HVAC 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 1 0 FIRST PLACE 217 Berlin Ave., Southington 860-621-0556 www.billycarlsonct.com Lic #S1-386598 Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer 5 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Police Blotter Patricia A. Sullivan, 44, of 141 Falcon Ridge Road, Torrington, was charged on August 8 with failure to respond to an infraction. She was held on a $500 bond for an Augsut 22 court date. Javier E. Arroyo, 19, of 125 Howard Avenue, was charged on August 11 with two counts of first degree robbery, second degree assault, second degree breach of peace, interfering with an officer, two counts of reckless endangerment, sixth degree larceny and second degree threatening. He was held on a $500,000 bond for an August 12 court date. Joshua Landeen, 28, of 23 Beecher Street, was charged on August 11 with second degree failure to appear. He was held on a $10,000 bond for an August 12 court date. Brian Fitzpatrick, 39, of 28 Division Street, Danbury, was charged on August 11 with fifth degree larceny. He was held on a $5,000 bond for an August 22 court date. Kathryn Keri Gilman, 29, of 190 Tomilson Avenue, Plainville, was charged on August 12 with DUI and reckless endangerment. She was held on a $5,000 bond for an August 22 court date. Stanley J. Uryga, 53, of 42 Victoria Lane, was charged on August 13 with DUI and failure to main- tain a lane. He was held on a $500 bond for an August 22 court date. Travis B. Ranson, 21, of 890 Poverty Hollow Road, Newtown, was charged on August 13 with DUI, having an improper number of headlights, driving a wrong way on a one way road and failure to maintain a lane. He was held on a $500 bond for August 22 court date. Malwina Jodlowski, 24, of 27 Darling Street, was charged on August 14 with disorderly conduct. She was held on a $500 bond for an August 15 court date. Krzysztof M. Jodlowski, 29, of 27 Darling Street, was charged on August 14 with disorderly conduct. He was held on a $500 bond for an August 15 court date. Cezary Paliwoda, 45, of 20 Jordon Court, was charged on August 13 with disorderly conduct. He was held on a $500 bond for an August 15 court date. John Thayer, 56, of 219 Center Street, Manchester, was charged on August 15 with a probation violation. He was held on a $10,000 bond for an August 16 court date. Henri Germain, 51, of 62 Plaza Avenue, was charged on August 15 with two counts of second degree breach of peace. He was held on a $500 bond for an August 22 court date. Patrick L. Valentine, United Way to kick off campaign The United Way of Southington (UWS) will be holding its official campaign kick-off on Wednesday, August 31 at approximately 7:45p.m. on the Southington town green as a part of the “Music on the Green” program. Carol Reilly, executive director, and Sheila DurantRobinson, honorary chairperson, will be doing a short presentation during the musical intermission. The three most important messages will be: 1) the group’s unofficial trademark. We are “Southington People Helping Southington People.” 2) The fact that one check touches 17 of the most important charities that serve in our town, and 3) When you do United Way workplace giving, you can direct your tax deductible donation – regardless of the town in which you work – to the United Way of Southington to help your local family, friends and neighbors. To donate to UWS, please mail your check to PO Box 546, Southington, CT 06489. Calendar House Notes The following events will take place at het calendar House in the coming weeks: Genealogy Club – Wednesday, Aug 31 at 1 pm in the Perry Room Fall 2011 Session “Computer Learning Center @ Calendar House” Classes begin September 6. A few seats are available in Basic Digital Photography, Email, and Intro to Computers For more information regarding the Computer Learning Center @ Calendar House please email [email protected]. Calendar House closed September 5 in observance of Labor Day Southington Remembers 911 - 6:30 pm on Sunday, September 11, 2011, the people of Southington will gather, as one community, on the grounds of Southington High School for a patriotic, memorial service. Alaska Yukon Experience Friday, September 16th presentation by Tours of Distinction Pig Roast Wednesday, September 21 catered by Smokin’ With Chris Tickets on sale until September 14 For more about Calendar House activities pick up the August newsletter at 388 Pleasant Street or visit our website and sign up for a monthly email copy of the newsletter www.calendarhouse.org. Southington Town Pools will remain open until Friday, August 26. Memorial Park Pool will be closed as of Saturday, August 27. Recreation Park Pool will remain open on a limited schedule through Sunday, September 11, during the following hours: August 27 August 28: 11 as - 7 pm; August 29 - September 2: 3:30 pm - 7 pm; September 3 - September 5: 11 am - 7 pm; September 6 September 9: closed; September 10 - September 11: 11 am - 7 pm. BRI IT’S LI SPA NGING KE T T HOUO YOU HE SE! R RING OFFE RELESS SU PRES OUSE H ING WASH Visit: thepowerwashingkings.com Fully Insured Owner: Paul Gianni 621 Jerome Avenue Brisol, CT BARC 860 582-9102 Dogs All Natural Love BITES ext 128 DOG BISCUITS $ 75 lb. Them 3 The DINING ROOM The GROWING 860-584-0043 Special of the Week CROCK OF CHILI with a grilled corn muffin. $ 95 5 SOUPS Mon. Cream of Tomato Tues. Oriental Steak Wed. Green Minestrone Thur. Creamy Carrot Fri. Crab Bisque CENTER ext 133 Come to the Growing Center on a hot summer day and buy yourself a cool houseplant. Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-3:30 CANDY KITCHEN ext 134 We are making fresh Jams and Relishes in August. Also available are Coconut Shells, Chocolate Covered Oreos, Caramel Turtles, and Pops. Just call ahead, and we will make your party favors for weddings, birthdays, showers, holidays, parties, baptisms, etc. SUGAR FREE AVAILABLE Come check our caring staff at our new location Full time Hygienist on Staff Implant Placement Restoration & Maintenance A local woman was arrested last week, on allegations that she embezzled almost $300,000 from Plantsville Congregational Church. Kelly Saucier, 45, of 48 Blossom Way, turned herself into police on Tuesday, August 16, after learning that she was the subject of an arrest warrant. The arrest warrant stems from an investigation Good Guy Electric, LLC E1-185608 QUALITY WORK AT LOW PRICES 860-965-0451 www.goodguyelectric.com TAKEE A HIKE, And Help Feed Local Families All Proceeds Donated to BREAD FOR LIFE Enjoy a leisurely walk and breathtaking views of Southington from atop ROGERS ORCHARDS - SHUTTLE MEADOW FARM (Long Bottom Road) for our 3rd ANNUAL WALK TO END HUNGER on SATURDAY, AUGUST 27th - from 9:00 am until noon. Free apple cider and apple cider donuts for all walkers. $10 per person, $6 per child or $20 for a family. This week Our Salesrooms Feature IS NOW HERE! NO METAL WIRES OR BRACKET New w patientss onlyy with h appointment FRESH BAKED Come check out our state of the art facility 248 N. Main St. Southington • 860 621-2644 M-W 8-5, Tues. & Thurs. 9-6, Fri. 8-4 EST. 1997 Free Estimates - Fully Insured - 24+ Years Experience NO JOB TOO SMALL FREE E EXAM Familyy Dentall Practicee off Southington which revealed that during a period between August 2005 and December 2010, it is alleged that Saucier embezzled $293,385.15 from Plantsville Congregational Church while holding the position of church treasurer. Saucier was charged with first degree larceny. She was held on a $100,000 bond for an August 29 court date. Residential - Commercial - Industrial TREE RIPENED www.familydentalofsouthington.com was charged on August 17 with possession of narcotics, possession of narcotics with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, weapons in a motor vehicle and DUI. He was held on a $50,000 bond for an August 17 court date. Edward Thomas Cooper Jr., 26, of 217 Dunham Street, was charged on August 17 with second degree breach of peace and second degree threatening. He was held on a $1,000 bond for an August 17 court date. Ryan S. Billings, 18, of 16 Fox Road, Plainville, was charged on August 14 with sixth degree larceny. He was held on a $500 bond for an August 29 court date. Woman arrested for church embezzlement Final pool hours are set Quality y is s ourr Priority Locally Owned — Family Operated 50, of 132 Stafford Avenue, Bristol, was charged on August 16 with third degree larceny, third degree conspiracy to commit third larceny and third degree criminal trespass. He was held on a $500 bond for an August 29 court date. Kelly Cole Saucier, 45, of 48 Blossom Way, was charged on August 16 with first degree larceny and embezzlement. She was held on a $100,000 bond for an August 29 court date. Tiffany Marie Motta, 20, of 16 Peters Circle, was charged on August 17 with sixth degree larceny. She was held on a $500 bond for an August 17 court date. Jeffrey Bowman, 35, of 821 Old Turnpike Road, FRESH PICKED NEW CROP PEACHES APPLES SWEET CORN PLUMS & PEARS PIES APPLE CIDER DONUTS OUR OWN OUR “FAMOUS” WORTH THE DRIVE FROM ANYWHERE!! www rogersorchards.com Rogers Orchards Shuttle Meadow Salesroom Sunnymount Salesroom Long Bottom Rd (Off Flanders Rd) Southington • (860) 229-4240 Open Daily 8 A.M. - 6 P.M. www.rogersorchards.com One mi. west of I-84Rt. 322 Meriden-Wtby Rd., Southington (203) 879-1206 Open Daily 9 A.M. - 6 P.M. SS 6 Friday, August 26, 2011 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 •Milestones.......page 10 Commentary •Neighbors.........page 11 •Good Times........page 13 Our Views Sweetness of new businesses ED HARRIS editor Established in 1975 Published weekly by The Step Saver, Inc. 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489 editorial: 860-621-6751 advertising: 860-628-9645 circulation: 860-628-9438 fax 860-621-1841 e-mail [email protected] All editorials are intended to reflect the position of the publisher and not that of any individual editorial writer. Signed columns, on the other hand, reflect the position of the author and not necessarily those of the publisher. www.SouthingtonObserver.com www.StepSaver.com Feeling nostalgic won’t the pay bills Nostalgia can be a strong human emotion. Many of us tend to look at the past with rose-colored glasses, longing for the way things used to be—and glossing over the aspects of the memory that don’t fit the fantasy. And, as nostalgia takes hold, we become saddened over the way things change. Currently, there’s a lot of nostalgia among book lovers of central Connecticut. Borders, the mega-bookstore, is shutting down. The funeral for Borders is kind of ironic because it comes decades after the big box bookstores initiated their efforts to kill off the independent bookstores. And for the most part, the big boxes won by giving consumers wider selection and discounted prices… as well as amenities such as coffee shops and CD listening stations inside. For a while, the small guys died off and the big boys romped. But Borders—and its chief competitor Barnes and Noble— found itself floundering when shoppers flocked to the internet to buy their books. Why leave the house when you can find everything you want on Amazon? Then technology added a further blow with advent of the Kindle and iPad. Why even have a physical book or personal library when anything you could ever want fits in the palm of your hand? However, now that consumers helped put bookstores out of business, they want their bookstores back. They don’t necessarily want to buy more books. But they’re nostalgic for what those bookstores meant… a place to hang out and browse (and not buy books) and the opportunity to hold a physical book to buy, if they wanted to. But it’s bad business to operate on the philosophy that something has to exist because consumers “might” need it at some unclear moment in the future. And it’s an unmanageable business model. The United States Post Office is in the same position as Borders was and has been in that position even longer. Companies such as UPS and FedEx did the same thing as the Post Office… delivered packages… and did it cheaper, faster and with more nimble marketing skills. Suddenly, consumers used the private companies—cutting the revenue of the Post Office, driving the quasi-governmental agency further into a deficit. If the competition for the delivery of consumer packages wasn’t bad enough, the Post Office lost the world of correspondence and billing invoices. Few people write actual, hard copy, letters any more. Consumers found email, IMs, Twitter, and Facebook to be preferable to actually putting pen to paper. Banks and businesses did a runaround past the UPS when they instituted on-line bill payment. The Post Office still has the periodical business (thanks to publications like The Observer and just about every other magazine). And old-timers are still fond of the Post Office and distrust the internet. But the revenue is down at the USPS and it needs to cut expenses. Hence, the Post Office is looking at eliminating some of its smaller locations across the country. Things change, the past is the past. We all have to accept responsibility for the consequences of our actions. Nostalgia is comforting. But it doesn’t pay the bills. A couple new and potential businesses in town are hitting our sweet tooth and appealing to our taste buds. Fresh off an appearance at the recent Taste of Southington, Frosted Couture Cupcakes will be opening for business next month. Sometime within the next few weeks, the Cork & Brew store, on North Main Street, will give residents the necessary ingredients needed to brew their own beer or wine. Early last month, Southington’s Economic Development Strike Committee met with Carmen Romeo, of Waterbury, to discuss the possibility of moving his sweets company, Fascia’s Chocolates to town. Though the potential move is still a year or so away, officials are already in preliminary talks about the move. These new businesses not only promise to add a little more taste to Southington, but they also help showcase how the town has been able to weather the economic calamity that is plaguing other towns, while all the while attracting new businesses. Frosted Couture Cupcakes is teaming up with Christina’s Gourmet Cookies in a storefront on North Main Street. Though each business will keep their own brand name, the storefront itself will be called The Ed Harris Thoughts around town Shops at Sweet Boutique. For more on Frosted Couture Cupcakes, see the Business Profile in last week’s Observer. It is on the Neighbors page. According to Kristin Michalski, who owns Cork & Brew with her husband, the business is the only of its kind in Connecticut. The business offers patrons the ability to purchase the ingredients needed to brew homemade wine or beer. Those interested in making their own beer, with custom labels available through the business, should take note that it takes a few weeks to brew the beer. Michalski, who calls home brewing a hobby, is hoping that the business will inspire others to indulge in the niche market. The Cork & Brew is slated to open in late August or early September. Fascia’s Chocolates is a more of a wait and see game, but it too will allow for a one of its kind store in Southington, should everything go through. All of the chocolate at the Waterbury store is made in-house. This little twist has made the store a popular destination for many tourists. If Fascia’s Chocolates does come to town, it will move into the building currently occupied by iDeals Surplus Outlets furniture store. Per a deal with iDeals owner Dave Cayer, the furniture store will move to a new location. These new, or potentially new, businesses follow on the heals of newer businesses such as Target, Lowes and BJ’s, which opened branches in Southington over the last year or so. Given the uneasiness that is our current economy, I am heartened to see several companies investing in and building new homes in Southington. These new businesses, and others in the community, are stimulating the local economy. This is a big plus for Southington and its residents. Comments? Email [email protected]. A bucket list has quite a kick A few years ago Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman starred in a movie called “The Bucket List.” It was a story of two guys suffering from cancer who decided to do all the things they always wanted to do before they “kicked the bucket.” Fortunately, Nicholson’s character just happened to be a wealthy businessman, who was able to fund their adventures. The pair went skydiving, flew over the North Pole, climbed the pyramids in Egypt, visited the Taj Mahal, went on a lion safari in Africa, and rode motorcycles on the Great Wall of China. If Nicholson’s character had been lower middle class, like Freeman’s character, then it would have been a really boring movie. Even with exciting adventures, the movie still managed to annoy a lot a people, particularly Roger Ebert, the well-known film critic and cancer survivor. Ebert was not impressed that the movie “thinks dying of cancer is a laugh riot followed by a dimestore epiphany.” Oh well, I guess you can’t always please everyone. The first time I heard about the concept of a “bucket list” was many years earlier. Long before he became famous, football coach Lou Holtz made a list of “100 things to do” during his lifetime. A few of the items on his list included: become head coach at Notre Dame, win a national championship, and speak with a manly voice. Well, Coach, Bill Dunn Laugh or Death two out of three isn’t bad. My personal bucket list is much more modest, since I’m neither a movie star, a wealthy character in a movie, nor a major college football coach. But, on the other hand, even though I have no coaching experience, decades of watching football on TV has convinced me I can call plays more creatively than anything that’s been going on at UConn in recent years. So if you guys in Storrs need an offensive coordinator, I’m in the phone book. As a young man, the two primary items on my bucket list were: 1) marry the most beautiful woman in the world, and 2) see the Red Sox win the World Series. Amazingly, both occurred during my lifetime. One was the consummation of a passionate love affair, and the other was my wedding day. I used to have more ambitious items on my bucket list, such as go bungee jumping, climb the Eiffel Tower, bungee jump from the top of the Eiffel Tower, and see the Chicago Cubs win the World Series. Not that I’m a big Cubs fan. Just rooting for the underdog. But now I’m much older and a little bit wiser, and I finally realized these are silly goals, since I’m afraid of heights, I don’t particularly like France (because they don’t like me), and the Cubs are much worse than the Red Sox ever were. So those goals are simply unrealistic. Now my bucket list has goals that are much more doable, like avoiding an IRS audit, keeping my job, and taking a nap once in a while. I showed this list to my wife (you remember her, right? The most beautiful woman in the world?), and she was not impressed. She said I need to think on a much grander scale. I need to think outside the box. OK, fair enough. So here’s my new “outside the box” bucket list, which has only two items on it: 1) watch Ted Williams hit a baseball, and 2) go to a Beatles concert. Actually, I think I have a better chance of doing those two things than the Cubs have of winning the World Series. Bill Dunn is a freelance writer who resides in Torrington. He can be reached via his website at: www.boomertrek.com. Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer 7 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Your Views Southington says School starts on Monday, August 29. We recently asked people what they are looking forward to as the new school year begins? Photos by Tammi Knapik "Seeing the kids again. I miss them. This will be my 35th year teaching here in town." Madonna Lemay Southington "A new adventure with a new group of people." Linda Wrobel Prospect "Meeting the new students. This year I switched from teaching fourth grade to third grade so I don't know a lot of the students that well yet." Ruthann Drogosek Southington "This year I am starting Pre K. I look forward to reading lots of books. Princess stories are my favorite." "Recess and gym." Maya Coviello Terryville Evan Coviello Terryville Letters Lure of 50 percent sale Death was preventable To the Editor, I am writing regarding the much-needed and longoverdue expansion and renovation of our town’s two middle schools, Kennedy and DePaolo. Unfortunately, much of the reporting, to date, of the estimated $85 million project costs underplays the crucial fact that approximately one-half of these expenditures or $42.5 million will be covered by a state of Connecticut school building infrastructure grant program that encourages local school construc- tion, expansion and renovation. The public should not lose sight of this fact when they vote on the referendum question regarding this vital capital improvement project on Election Day, November 8. Even in the tough economic times that we are currently mired in, we must not stop investing in our most precious future resource-our children. Please keep in mind that each of the six to eight elementary schools that feed students into Kennedy and DePaolo are each separate- ly, nearly as large as the aging, decrepit Kennedy and DePaolo campuses that they will be jammed into. Please note that the resource poor (compared to Southington) city of New Haven, has over the last ten years taken advantage of this state of Connecticut matching grant program to rebuild and renovate nearly all of its much larger number of schools at 50 local cents on the dollar. Who, among us, can resist the lure of a 50 percent off sale? Joseph Shurkus Plantsville To the Editor, My father, Frank Orsini, a 57-year-old man, died on July 23, 2011. My name is Marie Orsini and I am his 24 year old daughter. My dad will not see me graduate from Central Connecticut State University. I will not be able to call him when I get my first job to officially start my career as a teacher. My dad will not walk me down the aisle when I get married. He will never meet the children that I plan to have someday, the children that would have called him Grandpa. He also left behind my brother, Anthony, who is 21 years old. Anthony will not have the guidance and support that our father would have given him as he goes about his journey of adulthood. My father was born in Waterbury, on March 10, 1954 to Antonio and Maria Orsini, Italian immigrants, who had recently made the trip over to America. They still reside in Waterbury, at my father’s childhood home, at their respective 84 and 82 years of age. My dad will not be visiting for Sunday dinners any longer. My grandparents had to bury their first born child, their only son. My dad’s only sister Antoinette will no longer have the big brother who had always been there when she needed him. My mom Eileen and my dad were married on August 24, 1974 and they would have celebrated their 37 wedding anniversary together if he was here. Instead of going out to dinner, my mom will visit her husband’s grave and bring the bottle of wine they saved from their wedding all these years. My mom lost the love of her life, the man she was supposed to spend her golden years with, and what for? My dad worked hard all of his life, starting in manufacturing at the age of 18 until he became a full time security guard a few years ago. He always made sure there was food on the table and a roof over our heads. My childhood was happy and I had everything I could ask for. As time went on, the economy became worse and we’ve been struggling every since. Now it’s harder than we could have ever imagined. The question we are asking now is why has our family been destroyed? The answer is because of a stroke that could have been prevented. For months, my father was under the care of a doctor who was treating him for vertigo. He would have spells that would cause him to fall down and become nauseous for a short period of time before returning to his normal functioning. My father also suffered from high blood pressure for years but he took several medications to try and keep it under control. The mini strokes that he had over the months turned into a major stroke this past July. This stroke occurred in the brainstem which cut off all oxygen to the rest of his brain. We watched him get worse and worse over three days and three different hospitals before we lost him on that Saturday morning. This has been the most heart wrenching experience of my life and it hurts so much to think it could have been prevented if he had received better care. I urge anyone to who suffers from high blood pressure or has a loved one that does, to understand the symptoms and signs of a stroke. If the doctor says it’s not the case, then get a second opinion. My dad deserves to be here today and if I can save another person’s life by sharing this information than hopefully this will all make sense one day. Marie Orsini Southington SUBMITTED Scouting camping trip Twenty-one Boy Scouts from Troop 45 in Southington, along with their leaders and families, spent two days, August 12-13, touring Washington, DC. The scouts visited the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam and Korean Memorials, and several of the Smithsonian museums as well as other attractions. They also enjoyed a tour of Ford’s Theater, where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. One of the highlights of the trip was a tour of The White House. They ended their trip with a solemn tour of Arlington National Cemetery. One of the most memorable moments of the trip was a Troop 45 Scout salute to World War II veterans who where honored that day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The trip to Washington, DC was part of Troop 45’s annual summer family camping trip. American Legion is collecting books and DVDs The American Legion Auxiliary is looking for your old books, CDs and DVDs. The groups Got Books donation containers are located at the back parking lot of the YMCA and are accessible anytime for donations. Encyclopedias, magazines and damaged items cannot be accepted. The American Legion Auxiliary will earn money each time the donation containers fill up. Send us your letters! We welcome letters to the editor from all of our readers. Send your letter to editor Ed Harris at [email protected], or mail them to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday for the following week’s edition. 8 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Friday, August 26, 2011 There is still time to go green with your business More and more industries are getting serious about increasing their sustainability. If your business has done the basics like improving insulation, recycling and educating employees about increasing energy efficiency and you’re interested in taking “going green” to the next level, now is the time to consider installing renewables. Starting September 1, 2011, a final round of incentives will be available from the state of Connecticut for businesses, non-profits and municipalities. This is known as the On-site distributed generation program or OSDG. The OSDG Program Sharon Vocke Green Yet? helps finance the installation of systems that generate electricity from the sun, wind, fuel cells, biomass, landfill gas and river flows. The program also supports the installation of waste heat recovery/power generation equipment. The amount of the grant depends on the economics of the installation. This program is competitive. The Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority (CEFIA), formerly the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF), will select and recommend the strongest projects for funding. These grants are under a Best of Class and Public Buildings Request for Proposals (RFP). CEFIA will be offering this additional RFP round to bridge the time between the launch of the Zero-Emission and Low-Emission Renewable Energy Credit (REC) programs available to the market. Although the round will offer grant incentives, the RFP will include a methodology to develop incentive requests on a REC-based program model basis. The RFP will be split into two separate solicitations. There will be a competitive RFP for PV and a rolling submission RFP for wind turbines and other eligible technologies. Both solicitations are expected to be released on September 1, 2011 and will close on February 29, 2012. Public Act 11-80, An Act Concerning The Establishment Of The Department Of Energy And Environmental Protection (DEEP) And Planning For Connecticut’s Energy Future, recently signed into law by Governor Malloy, Op/Ed Looking forward to the school year By Dr. JOSEPH ERARDI Special to The Observer Thank you to so many of you who stopped in during the summer to share your thoughts, family, and future school plans. I found this summer to be unique as it was filled with great hope, and perhaps, even greater uncertainty. Within the same conversation, it appeared that mention would be made of guarded optimism concerning our economy and then, moments later, the discourse would include the potential for a double-dip recession. It is my belief that local, regional, and national challenges towards our work will be continuous throughout the year. The ability to lose sight of what we do will be challenged throughout 2011-2012. Our critical friends will question need, resources, expenditures, and the difference we make with children. This conversation will increase in volume until federal decision-makers articulate a clear and concise plan of support for local schools. National confidence in public schools may be at an all-time low. This is extremely troubling as the percentage of students graduating from high school has never been higher, the nation’s dropout rate has never been lower, and the performance by students, as defined through NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress), has never been stronger. In July, I was, once again, privileged to tell our Southington Public School story on a national platform. I shared our many successes that took place because caring, thoughtful, hard-working staff members consciously chose to do only exceptional work. I further shared with federal officials that, at times, it is less about dollars and more about the soul of a local school board and its employees that truly is the difference. Your work, in partnership with your colleagues, has become the compelling story that makes our schools unique. I ask every staff member to stay focused on children. They need you and your positive influence now more than ever before. Carry on professional conversations about children, offer your guidance and assistance to children, and work to our credo that we will, and can, make a difference with every child. There is terrific sense of excitement that I feel about this school year: I, like you, love a challenge. We will be challenged on all fronts. I, like you, will embrace the challenge, and continue to do all that we can for children. I, like you, have watched for a very long time a middle school plan unfolding that has been discussed for over a decade. I am excited that we have the opportunity to bring our plan to the electorate on November 8. I, like you, have watched our kindergarten students enter school with See ERARDI, page 16 Ceiling Surgeon control Bob Semrow Jr. Lic. # B-1714 2000 Mice, Bees, Ants, other creepy insects and termites Specializing in: *Spray Textures *Repairs of stains, cracks, holes, etc. *New replacement ceilings *Mold & mildew treatment (860) Over 25 years of ceiling experience Bristol & Surrounding Communities (860) 261-4071 Reg. No. 544128 628-8783 -------Ask For Jim ------Quality Estate Furniture Without the HIGH Prices! At McCabe’s, we’re proud to say that we sell quality furniture for pennies on the dollar Choose from: • Drexel HECK COME C T! • Heritage US OU lamp • Kindell a FREE Receive purchase • Broyhill with any $50 • Hitchcock over • Thomasville And so much more! McCabe’s Used Furniture 112 Lazy Lane, Southington, CT (860) 621-3270 • www.mccabesusedfurniture.com Do-it-Yourself Welcome Serving the Community for over 25 years Now offering same day service Mon-Fri Installation - Service - Repair • Water heater replacements - Gas, Oil, Electric 24 HR. • High-efficiency tankless water heaters installed EMERGENCY • Faucet and fixture replacement and repair SERVICE • Water filter installation • Complete kitchen and bathroom remodel services available • Gas pipe for - Fireplace log kits - Gas grills - Pool heaters “One call for all your plumbing needs” (860) 621-6987 - FREE ESTIMATES - Licensed & Insured CT LIC # - P1 279241 Fax # (860) 628-2358 • Email - [email protected] creates Zero-Emission and Low-Emission REC programs to provide incentive funding for commercial clean energy generating projects. Beginning in 2012 the Zero-Emission REC program will be the primary incentive funding mechanism for commercial solar PV, wind, hydro and other non-emitting Class 1 technologies. LowEmission RECs will be awarded to technologies such as biomass, fuel cells and other Class 1 fuel sources and technologies meeting the statutory emissions definition. I strongly encourage any business, non-profit or municipality interested in developing renewables to investigate this program. It’s a great opportunity to save on the up-front costs of installing this technology and this funding won’t be around for long. In addition to the monies available from the state, businesses are eligible for a federal tax credit of 30 percent, which can be amortized for several years if tax liability is low. The first step is to contact an eligible installer who will help you get started. A list of contractors can be found here: http://www.ctcleanenergy.com/Portals/0/8_15_11 %20Solar%20PV%20Progra m%20Contractors.pdf You can also learn more at [email protected]. Also, please feel free to contact me with any questions. Although this plan may at first seem complicated, its well-worth wading through the information to discover that renewables are within your reach. Sharon Vocke is the coowner of the local company Evergreen Energy, which installs geothermal, solar and wind systems. You can reach her at [email protected]. 26TH Annual Sock Hop & Car Sh ow Sho ...on the Green in Prospect, CT SUN, AUG 28TH 1-7 PM Raindate - September 18, 2011 TROPHIES! TROPHIES! TROPHIES! Trophies presented at 5:30 PM Gre a t Food &s D rink .......... 50’s & 60’s Music provided by a DJ and 2 LIVE BANDS THE ROCKIN HEARTBEATS & THE SHARADES Dash Plaques to first 500 Cars • Event T-Shirts Emergency Vehicle & Military Vehicle Class Classic & Special Interest Cars Welcome NO Tuner Cars Please - No Dogs! No Bicycles! No Skateboards! Organized by the Office of the Mayor & the Prospect Car Owners Association SAVE GAS ~ COME TO PROSPECT! Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 9 Our Healthy Lifestyles Don’t take our word-take it from the kids Every year, summer seems to buzz by with barely the opportunity to enjoy the warm days at the beach, BBQ’s and vacations. We are busy enjoying days at YMCA Camp Sloper and Naciwonki Summer Adventures, however with August upon us, our thoughts begin to linger towards school. At the Y, we are preparing for another exciting year of School Age Childcare. Our school age program focuses on safety, health, social growth, and academic achievement. Our Y’s before and after school programs service Kindergarten through middle school students with a variety of programmatic and activity options designed to help explore and develop their talents and interests. Katie Sherman Southington YMCA Rather than listing the many benefits of Y after care, I would like to give our children an opportunity to express their thoughts, feelings and experiences about the Y. So, please take a moment to indulge in the perspectives of our children and parents. Marlee Susca from Derynoski After Care-“You get to go to the gym and play games and sometimes you go to the cafeteria. In the café, we make fuse beads, art projects, and play board games, make necklaces and get snack. I really like after care. We also have a homework club where the counselors and older kids help with homework. The counselors are really nice.” Kayla Nguyen from Derynoski After Care “It is really fun. My favorite part about after care is playing games in the gym. Sometimes I get to play with cards, connect four and other stuff. The counselors are all really nice.” Jonathan Jenkins from Flanders After Care-“After care is really good. It gives me something to do after school. I get to play a lot of games. My favorite is UNO. The counselors are all really great. I like playing tag outside when the weather is nice.” Toby Uhlman from Strong After Care-“It is fun to go to after care. I get to play games with my friends and go outside. My favorite part of after care is going to the gym. My favorite game is pickle. The counselors are nice and a lot of fun to play with.” Carter Uhlman from Strong After Care-“After care is a lot of fun, I like it there. I like playing in the gym. My favorite game is basketball. I get a chance to play with my friends after school. The counselors are a lot of fun and they’re nice. I also like the talent shows that we get to put on. I got to sing and dance in it.” If the children have not yet convinced you, our parents also have had a positive experience they would like to share. Donna Russell stated, “The children get to play with other kids and the program is structured. Counselors are helpful, nurturing and work to understand each child’s individual needs.” Ashleigh Uhlman noted, “I feel good about leaving my children at the Y. They are happy, engaged and participate in a variety of adventures such as walking to Pralines.” The Southington Community YMCA serves all elementary and middle schools in Southington offering both before and after school care. Derynoski, Flanders, Hatton, Kelley, Strong and Thalberg offer after care on site at each school. Plantsville, South End, St. Thomas and St. Dominic are transported to the main Y building. Middle school participants attend the Club Y program and are also transported to the main Y building. We are currently accepting registrations for the 20112012 school year. Registrations are available online and at the Learning Center. Please feel free to visit our website at www.southingtoncheshireymca.org or contact us 860-621-8130. Backpacks 101: Take the weight off of your shoulders Well, it is happening already. I am seeing more children with back pain. Back pain is pervasive among American adults, but a new and disturbing trend is emerging. Young children are suffering from back pain much earlier than previous generations, and the use of overweight backpacks is a contributing factor, according to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA). In fact, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the use of book bags or back carriers resulted in over 6,500 injuries in 2000 alone. Over the past ten years, the chiropractic profession is noticing a marked increase in the number of young children who are complaining about back, neck and shoulder pain. This new back pain Dr. Carol Grant Alternatively Speaking trend among youngsters isn’t surprising when you consider the disproportionate amounts of weight they carry in their backpacks— often slung over just one shoulder. A 2002 study conducted in Italy found that the average child carries a backpack that would be the equivalent of a 39-pound burden for a 176-pound man, or a 29pound load for a 132-pound woman. Of those children carrying heavy backpacks to school, 60 percent had experienced back pain as a result. Other studies have shown that slinging a backpack over one shoulder could exacerbate the curvature of the spine in scoliosis patients. According to the ACA, preliminary results of studies being conducted show that the longer a child wears a backpack, the longer it takes for a curvature or deformity of the spine to correct itself. The question that needs to be addressed next is, does it ever return to normal? The results of these types of studies are especially important as more and more school districts— many of them in urban areas— remove lockers from the premises, forcing students to carry their books with them all day long. So, what can you do? Make sure your child’s backpack weighs no more than five to ten percent of his or her body weight. A heavier backpack will cause your child to bend forward in an attempt to support the weight on his or her back, rather than on the shoulders, by the straps. The backpack should never hang more than four inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child to lean forward when walking. A backpack with individualized compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively. Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child’s back. And don’t forget bigger is not necessarily better. The more room there is in a backpack, the more your child will carry— and the heavier the backpack will be. Urge your child to wear both shoulder straps. Lugging the backpack around by one strap can cause the disproportionate shift of weight to one side, leading to neck and muscle spasms, as well as low-back pain. Wide, padded straps are very important. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable, and can dig into your child’s shoulders. The shoulder straps should be adjustable so the backpack can be fitted to your child’s body. Straps that are too loose can cause the backpack to dangle uncomfortably and cause spinal misalignment and pain. If the backpack is still too heavy, talk to your child’s teacher. Ask if your child could leave the heaviest books at school, and bring home only lighter hand-out materials or workbooks. If you or your child experiences any pain or discomfort resulting from backpack use, call our office. I have offered to evaluate backpack at no charge and we also do free scoliosis screening as well. Dr. Carol Grant, a local chiropractor, does not intend this column to substitute for medical advice. She urges you to always consult with your personal physician before changing any current program. As a person ages, the support of loved ones declines As a person ages, social support of relatives and friends decline due to death or illness of loved ones, and children moving far away. Most people do not choose isolation over the pleasure of being with those they love or enjoy. Support from others can be important in reducing stress, retaining physical health and keeping at bay feelings of depression and anxiety. Most people think first of their family when considering where to get social support. Often this is limited due to distance, illness, their own family obligations or work. This is also true for friends. Community-based events or services then become more important. Support for elderly persons can be found in service centers, adult care centers, Stephen Allaire Elder Security assisted living facilities, religious groups, or simply coffee hours in an apartment building. Taking part in activities in these settings can help deflect loneliness and isolation. Sometimes just being in the setting and talking with people is enough. But studies have shown that social support services should include quality activities to promote positive self awareness. Self-awareness is a key to a person’s overall quality of life and satisfaction. Leisure social activities such as reminiscence groups, journal writing, readings of favorite book passages, group exercise, singing groups, etc., help increase an individual’s self awareness. If the elder person can be a part of the planning of those activities, he or she will feel much more satisfied. There are estimated to be about 15,000 senior citizen centers in the United States. These centers act as a focal point for older Americans to receive many aging services. The most common services offered at a senior center include heath programs, including Zumba and Yoga, arts/humanities activities, intergenerational programs, community action opportunities, transportation services, volunteer opportunities, education programs, financial assistance, senior rights/legal services counseling, travel programs and meal programs. It was quite a sight seeing my 82-year-old mother in-law demonstrate to her grandchildren how yoga enabled her to stand on her head. Not only did she shock the younger generation, but she pleased herself immensely. And of course, she is in very good physical condition. Adult day care centers can be very helpful for people who are less agile and alert than my mother in-law. According to the National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA), there are currently more than 4,600 adult day care centers nationwide. Adult day care is a program in which activities are provided to promote social support and health services to an older adult during the daytime. Most centers operate Monday through Friday during daytime hours. Social support series at an adult day care can consist of musical entertainment and singing groups, group games such as cards, gentle exercise, discussion groups (books, films, current events), holiday/birthday celebrations and local outings. Not only are these social activities provided, but participants of the program can also develop lasting relationships with staff and other participants. Adult day care centers also provide meals and health services. Adult day care centers differ from other programs for elderly individuals, because they allow the participants to develop and increase selfawareness by encouraging independence. Amanda describes her experience as a volunteer at her local adult day care center. She stated, “I was involved in planning the activities for Thursday afternoons. I wasn’t sure what kind of activities my older friends would enjoy so I had them share their favorite activities they participated in when they were my age (23). I soon realized that I was hearing the most fascinating stories of hopping trains, college dances, swimming in the lake, etc. We decided Thursday afternoons would See ELDER LAW, page 10 10 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 Group looks to tackle social anxiety By KAITLYN NAPLES Staff Writer Getting up in front of a group, giving a presentation, reading aloud, any kind of public speaking may come easy to some individuals. However, there are a number of people who do everything and anything they can to avoid these kinds of situations; the kind of situations that include talking in front of others, meeting new people and attending staff meetings, which may seem to be minor, everyday encounters to some. Individuals, who try to avoid group settings or public speaking, such as Bristol resident Marla Genova, would have constant thoughts running through her mind each morning, about what obstacles she may have had to face that day. Whether it was a staff meeting, giving a presentation at work or reading a speech at school, she would experience her heart racing and her body sweating and shaking. Genova said it all began in the seventh grade, when she had to give a speech on a book she had written a report on. “That’s when my vicious cycle of avoiding any kind of performing in public began,” she said. After going through high school and college, dreading class discussions, group work classes and avoiding professors and classes requiring presentations, Genova had discovered that she had Social Anxiety Disorder in 1997. She participated in a research study at Yale University, which she said changed her life. Genova decided on a career in clinical psychological research and worked on a substance abuse research study through Yale University for almost seven years, earning her master’s degree in psychology in the process. During her time there, she participated in a weekly support group devoted to social anxiety in New Haven, called the New Haven Social Anxiety Institute program. Genova eventually started the Social Anxiety and Public Speaking Phobia Support Group in 2009, which meets place in Plainville, Bristol and Southington. While spending time to find a support group for her disorder, she decided that she should start up her own support group because if others were going through the same thing and looking for help, “They need to know that it (help) is available.” Genova holds her support group meet-ups about three times each month at several of the local libraries. She said there aren’t many support groups devoted to social anxiety in the area, and has known individuals from Rhode Island and New Jersey to take the time to drive to New Haven to attend the weekly support group meetings. “Through my experience, I have found that the group element is the most effective way to overcome this type of anxiety,” Genova said, adding that she has made an extensive amount of progress, however she said she still would rate her social anxiety has high when participating in formal presentations and meetings requiring her to speak aloud. She added that even though individual help can prove to be successful, group support provides the individual with opportunities to complete exercises with others who encounter the same obstacles. “You have an actual audience also and have feedback, which can’t be achieved by yourself,” she said. Tara Gooley, of Seymour began attending the social anxiety group meet-ups after her son, now 9-years-old, used to ask her why they never went to playgrounds or participated in play groups. “Children are so observant and I realized that I wasn’t just being ‘shy,’ I was avoiding places like the park or other settings with unfamiliar situations and people, because I was afraid,” Gooley said, adding that after participating in the support group she started using the techniques she had learned. “It was hard at first because I didn’t know what to expect but after about a year or so I started noticing huge improvements,” she said. Gooley is in the process of starting another support group, which will focus on helping others “push themselves out of their comfort zones and help them get used to real life situations,” she said. “I have taken back the control of myself and am able to overcome a lot more,” Gooley said, adding that she has more interaction with other individuals now. “You feel a sense of empowerment. Having this disorder was crippling for me, now it is a thrill to see just how much I can accomplish.” Genova said that interpersonal relationships also are affected by individuals with a Social Anxiety Disorder. She said that person may be passive in a discussion and say they want to do something, like go to a movie for example, because someone else wants to; but in reality, they would rather go shopping. Genova added the individual may ask multiple questions when asked to go to an event or to a function so they are able to prepare themselves and know what to expect; in addition, she said, that the individual may eventually back out at the last minute when plans have been made. “A lot of people don’t understand what this is, and I think more individu- als need to be aware of it,” Genova said, adding that sometimes, people may not even think of their fear of public speaking or avoidance of various social settings could be a Social Anxiety Disorder. “Sometimes individuals will be ashamed of their fear, but with groups like these, they need to know that it is okay, they are not alone,” Gooley said. Genova said that she is able to run the support groups because of her own personal experiences with a Social Anxiety Disorder, as well as her education in psychology, “a professional background in the mental health field for 12 years, and, more importantly, I have the passion, dedication and motivation to guide others.” The meetings that are held in Plainville, Bristol and Southington, are informal, Genova said, adding that no one is forced to speak. She added there is no commitment involved, however she said many return to each meeting held. Stories are usually shared she said, what is going on in each others lives regarding social anxiety, what kind of treatments individuals have gone through, and what thoughts and feelings are being had regarding social anxiety. One individual who has attended the support groups, who wished to remain anonymous, said Genova “has an extraordinary gift to be non-judgmental. She has a rare combination of psychology education as well as experience with personal social anxiety.” The individual added the group is enjoyed because of its diversity and authenticity. For more information on the support group visit www.supportforsocialanxiety.com, where there is also a link to register for an upcoming Social Anxiety and Public Speaking Phobia Support Group meet-up. The next support group meeting will be held on Wednesday Sept. 7 at 2:30 p.m. at the Plainville Public Library. HAPPY BIRTHDAY in SOUTHINGTON 2 Lucky Birthday Winners Each Week Births Elder law: From page 9 be spotlights of each individual’s lives as a 20-something. One of the participants told me that Thursday became a highlight for her week.” For those who are caring for their spouse or parent, the time away gives a vital break from the daily stress of providing care. Adult Day Care Centers and Senior Citizen Centers help to provide an elderly individual the opportunity to participate in social support activities. These can be beneficial to a person’s quality of life and overall satisfaction. With a higher selfawareness and quality of life, an individual can reduce the risks of mental and physical health problems as they age. Attorney Stephen O. Allaire is a partner in the law firm of Ruggiero, Ziogas, and Allaire, members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc., with offices at 271 Farmington Ave., Bristol, (860) 584-2384). If you have a question, send a written note to Attorney Allaire at Ruggiero, Ziogas, and Allaire, 271 Farmington Avenue, Bristol, CT 06010, and he may use your question in a future column. CONGRATULATIONS: BIRTHDAY CAKE WINNER! HAIR SALON WINNER! Megan Paige Smith Carol Rider August 25, age 5 Elton Hill Kailey Schmarr Sabrina Morelli Alexandrea “Lexy” Schmidt August 31 August 24, age 75 August 26, age 10 courtesy of Miraclee Creative Hairr Design Believee inn Miracles A son, Brayden James Lowell, was born on May 11 to Jamie and Ken Lowell. The maternal grandparents are James and Karin Scarfo of Southi- ngton. The maternal greatgrandparents are Alice and Paul Seguin of Southington, Jeanne and Nick Scarfo of Southington. The paternal grandparents are Joan Lowell of Southington and Frederick Lowell of Rowe, MA. He has a brother, Jacob Lowell, 7. Birth announcements run for free in The Observer. Tom O’Leary August 31 August 31, age 16 $25 Gift Certificate Brayden James Lowell August 31 26 Bristol St., Southington, CT (860) 426-9890 Cake (Value up to $10) courtesy of 213 Spring St., Southington, CT (860) 628-9645 www.stepsaver.com To enter, call, email, fax or mail name, age and birth date of your special person from Southington to: Southington Observer • 213 Spring St., Southington, CT Phone: (860) 628-9645 • Fax: (860) 621-1841 Email: [email protected] Entries must be received prior to birth date. 2 winners will be drawn at random from all entries. All birthday entries will be listed. Winners will be contacted by phone. Friday, August 26, 2011 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 11 •Good Times.........page 13 Neighbors •Southington Scene...page 15 •Sports............Page 21 Our Friends Faces in the Crowd New pavilion at Camp Sloper The YMCA Camp Sloper Outdoor Center has a new pavilion and it has been recently named after the Marek Family of Marek Brothers Construction in Southington. “We are pleased to publicly announce that the newly constructed 30’x50’ pavilion located near the Sloper Sports Fields will be called the Marek Family Pavilion” stated Mark Pooler, Outdoor Center Director. “Both Brian Marek Sr and Brain Marek Jr. have been very generous over the years with the amount of in-kind donations they have provided YMCA Camp Sloper. They have provided the excavation services for all of our pavilions during the recent pavilion camTammi Knapik paign, assisted in several other small projects around Steve Nyerick the facility and also constructed the sports fields back in the 1990s that the Each week we interview a ‘regular person’ like you for pavilion sits on.” Marek Brother our Faces in the Crowd. This week we meet DePaolo Construction has been a School Councilor Steve Nyerick. reputable business in University this fall. How long have you Southington for many What is the best piece been connected to decades and has worked on of advice you have ever Southington? many town, private and resreceived? My parents are from idential projects during My dad used to always town. I have been here my their tenure. tell me to do my best. If at whole life. The Marek Family What do you like about the end of the day you can Pavilion was funded in part honestly say you tried with the town? by the YMCA Camp Sloper all you can, then you have Many friendly people Pavilion Campaign that accomplished a good day. that will make you feel started in 2008. The camp Who would you like to comfortable wherever you had been experiencing great meet? go in the community. difficulty during rainy days Fred Rogers. He had What is your favorite due to lack of enclosed prosuch a caring personality of gram areas. movie? bringing out the best in “Hoosiers.” I like basAt that time, the YMCA everyone. He was a really ketball. I also have a son Camp Sloper staff and volgenuine human being. who is going to Indiana unteers began a fundraising effort to construct several pavilions for the camp. Since 2008, there has been five new pavilions constructed including the Alumni Pavilion, funded by the Sloper alumni; the Denorfia Builders Pavilion, Do your best SUBMITTED The Marek family gathers at their namesake pavilion. funded by the Denorfia family and their local builders; the Meade Pavilion, funded by the Meade family; the Pooler Pavilion, funded by an anonymous donor in honor of current Camp Director Mark Pooler and finally the Marek Family Pavilion, funded in part by the Sloper alumni, the annual camp improvement fee and support from the Marek family. “These new pavilions have been a huge help and a big improvement to the camp” stated Pooler. “They provided us with rainy day space during inclement weather days, shaded space during really hot days and allow for additional programming opportunities in the off-season.” The Marek Pavilion has been a very popular place already this year with birthday parties, sports programs, family picnics and other programs already taking advantage of the facility. The Marek family had a small gathering July 13th at the pavilion to officially thank them and dedicate the pavilion to the family. “We are happy to give back to the YMCA and help the kids of Southington” stated Brain Marek Sr. “This is a great honor. The pavilion will be a very special place that our grandkids can see when they get older and come to camp” stated Brian. The final structure of this fundraising effort is scheduled to begin construction this fall when the YMCA plans to build a yearround program building in honor of Melanie Rossini who passed away suddenly on July 28, 2010. The YMCA has been working with the Rossini family on the fundraising efforts over the last year. There was a huge Kickoff Event at Murphy and Scarlett’s in May and a Road Race at Lake Compounce in June. To date, there has been $75k raised for the project with hopes that the final fundraising total will come in around $100k. Anyone interested in making a donation for this project can contact, Mark Pooler at YMCA Camp Sloper at 860-621-8194 x304 / [email protected]. Local to walk in support of Jimmy Fund SUBMITTED Jersey Shore comes to town Club 24 hosted a “GTL” table at an event held inside the Aqua Turf with MTV’s Jersey Shore cast member Ronnie on Saturday, August 13. Left to right is fitness facility staff members, Jon Andrade, Brittany Jordan, Barbara Ralston, Ronnie, Elise Piper, Christine Galvin, Bruce Carpenter with a raffle winner who won a gift card to “As You Like It” dry cleaners and a one week gym membership with complimentary tanning and product. On Sept. 18, 35 residents from Hartford County, including Southington resident Matthew Adams, will walk up to 26.2 miles along the historic route of the Boston Marathon in the 23rd annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai. They will be among the nearly 9,000 walkers expected to participate with the collective goal of raising more than $7.5 million for lifesaving adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through its Jimmy Fund. The Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai is the only event, other than the Boston Marathon itself that is sanctioned by the Boston Athletic Association to use the official course from Hopkinton to Boston. The Walk is the largest single-day participatory event benefiting the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Since its 1989 inception, the Walk has raised more than $73 million. “We are thankful to everyone involved in the Walk who is committed to raising funds for cancer care and research at DanaFarber,” says Ann Beach, director of the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. “Through the event, walkers are united by the common goal of funding cures for all cancers.” Participants may choose to walk one of four routes: the entire 26.2-mile Hopkinton to Boston route, the 13.1-mile Babson to Boston route, the 5-mile Boston College route, or the 3-mile route starting at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Those unable to participate on Walk Day can become “virtual walkers” and still fundraise for the Jimmy Fund. To register for the 23rd annual Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, to support a walker, or to volunteer, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call (866) 531-9255. 12 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 Obituaries Helen Kasper, loved to travel and cook Helen A. (Klepacki) Kasper, 93, passed away on Aug.18, at Apple Valley Rehab Center in Plainville. She was wife of the late Joseph T. Kasper. She was born in New Britain on Dec. 19 1917, the daughter of the late John and Veronica Klepacki. Kasper raised her family with her husband in Beacon Falls, prior to living in Southington. She loved to travel, cook and do rug hooking. She devoted her life to her family. She is survived by her loving children, Eileen and husband Franklin Fumal of FL, Kathleen and husband Allan Toubman, Janice Kasper and partner Robert Brooks all of ME, a brother Joseph Klepacki and sister Sue and husband Ed Sterniak all of Southington, four grand children Christopher Fumal, Elizabeth Burnham, William Toubman and Jessica Toubman, two great grandchildren Sarah and Mark Burnham and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Fidelco Guide Dogs Foundation, 103 Old Iron Ore Rd. Bloomfield, CT 06002. Timothy Mullaney, Plainville Police sergeant Timothy C. Mullaney, 44, of Bristol, died suddenly on Tuesday Aug. 16. He was born on Feb. 25, 1967 in Bristol, son of Richard L. Mullaney, Jr. and the late Helene (Lavoie) Mullaney. A graduate of Bristol Eastern High School, he was a sergeant with the Plainville Police Department. He received his bachelor’s degree in criminal studies and was currently working on his master’s degree from Quinnipiac University. He was active in coaching various boys’ football and baseball teams and was a gifted artist and photographer, In addition to his father of Farmington, he is sur- vived by his wife, Charlene “Cheri” (York) Mullaney of Bristol and their children, Alisha Mullaney of Bethel, Conn., and Kyle, Sean and Alec Mullaney, all of Bristol; his brothers and sisters, Richard Mullaney III of Bristol, Lennie Mullaney of Portsmouth, N.H., Kathy Williams of Southington, Michael Mullaney of Southington, Martha Pellegrino of Terryville, Liz Mullaney of Albuquerque, N.M., James Mullaney of Seymour, Gene Mullaney of Chittenden, Vt. and Mary Jones of Ridgefield; and many nieces, nephews and in-laws. He was predeceased by his brother, Sean V. Mullaney. Raymond Stimpson, served in Army and Navy Raymond Bruce Stimpson, 74, passed away peacefully at CT Hospice in Branford. He was the husband of Carolyn (Grenier) Stimpson. He was born in New Britain on Feb. 23 1937, the son of the late Raymond Henry Stimpson and Lillian (Bacon) Stimpson Sokolowski. He was a U.S Navy and Army Veteran. Ray was a plumbing and heating contractor and had taught at Kaynor Tech in Waterbury from 1980-1986. He was a Southington Volunteer Firefighter for Company 2 and a member of the American Legion Kiltonic Post #72. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Kenneth and wife Jane Stimpson of Camden, NY a daughter Cathy and husband Wayne Lewis of Meriden, two sisters Lorraine Hendricks of Rocky Hill and Lois Ewald of North Madison, grandchildren, Anson Chastain Stimpson, Raymond and Becky Stimpson, Zachary, Bryeanna, Jason and Preston Lewis, Joshua Stimpson, Joshua, Ryan, James and Justin Finn. He was predeceased by a son, Brian Stimpson and a sister, Dorothy Peterson. In lieu of flowers donations maybe made in his memory to CT Hospice, 100 Doublebeach Road, Branford, CT 06405. Anne Taglia, was an avid bowler and golfer Mrs. Anne G. Taglia, wife of Nicholas Taglia, daughter of the late Lena Diorio DeChicchio and James DeChicchio, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2011, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Waterbury on May 19, 1924. She was a homemaker and dedicated wife and mother. She graduated from Duggan School in 1937 and Waterbury Catholic High School in 1941. Taglia enjoyed gardening, crocheting, knitting, golfing and bowling. She was a member of the Wednesday morning Mixers Bowling League at Perillos. She was also a member of the Monday morning Western Hills Ladies Golf League and the Thursday morning East Mountain Ladies Sunshine Golf League. And most importantly, she was a former member of the Wednesday night Knitting Club with her close girlfriends. She is survived by her children, Jack Taglia and his wife, Sandi, from Middlebury, Nancy Chiero and her husband, John, from Southington and Bill Taglia and his wife, Pam, from Southington, her three grandchildren, John Chiero, Jennifer Chiero and Joseph Taglia ; and a nephew, Thomas Allegrini. She was predeceased by her sister, Jacqueline Allegrini. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Scholarship Fund in the name of Anne G. Taglia. Mary Ward, worked at Greater Hartford Association of Realtors Mary Jayne (Philipse) Ward passed away August 13, at Hartford Hospital following a lengthy illness. She was the wife of the late David R. Ward for 32 years and both were longtime residents of Southington. She was born on November 26, 1950, in Stamford, to the late Anthony and Catherine Philipse. Ward was a graduate of the University of CT and also earned a Masters Degree in Accounting from the University of Hartford. She was a Vice President of Finance for the Greater Hartford Association of Realtors in West Hartford for many years. Survivors include Steven and MaryAnn Ward of Trumbull, Sally and Morgan Kousser of Altadena, CA, Pam and Cary Leerkamp of Sidney Ill, three nephews, three nieces, three great nephews and three great nieces. Private services will be held at a later time. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society,825 Brook St. I-91 Tech Ctr., Rocky Hill, CT 06067-3045. How to contact The Observer News Do you have news you want to see in The Observer? Send the information to The Observer, care of the editor Ed Harris, at [email protected], mail it to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489, or fax it to The Observer at (860)621-1841. Sports Send us your Southington sports news. Do you want to see your youth league results published? How about recreation league teams? You can send it to The Observer care of the sports writer John Goralski at [email protected], mail it to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489, or fax it to The Observer at (860)621-1841. Milestones Have you had a baby? Are you recently engaged? Have you just gotten married? Send us the information and we’ll share it with the community. Forms are available on-line at www.stepsaver .com. You can send your information to The Observer care of the editor Ed Harris at [email protected], mail it to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489, or fax it to The Observer at (860)621-1841. Advertising Don’t just read The Observer, advertise in The Observer. To reach an advertising representative, give us a call (860) 6289645. Joseph Cocchiaro, owned several area restaurants Joseph Cocchiaro, of Southington Avenue, Southington, passed away recently. He was 84. Cocchiaro was the owner of M+M Restaurant in Meriden, Sunset Strip Café in Plantsville, Kandy Kane Lounge Café in Plainville and Spirit Shop Package Store in Southington. He was also very active in karate for many years. He leaves his wife of 47 years, two sons in Florida, a daughter in California and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sons. At his request, there was no calling hours. Thomas Costello, served in the US Navy during Korean Conflict Thomas F. Costello, 78, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 31, at home, surrounded by family. He was the husband of Lil (Dudzik) Costello for 53 years. Born May 16, 1933 in Waterbury, he was the son of the late Thomas F. and RoseAnn (Mulkern) Costello. Costello served for four years with the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He retired from AT&T with 38 years of service. He was a parishioner and usher of Mary Our Queen Church for many years. He was a member of the American Legion and a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. He spent many years on Lake Winnipesaukee during the summer and Florida during the winter months. Tom was always quick to laugh and joke and quicker to help others. He will be sadly missed by his wife Lil and four children, Thomas F. Costello III of Indiana, Nancy Smith of Southington, Laurie Bentz of Glastonbury, Michael Costello and wife Laurie of New Hampshire; five grandchildren, Danielle Bentz, Jennifer and Mackenzie Costello, Tyler Smith and Veejay Costello, a sister Mary Jane Hennesey of Naugatuck, a brother Patrick and many nieces and nephews. . He was predeceased by two sisters Barbara Grant and Rosie Barratt and two brothers Jack and James Costello. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Vitas Hospice Charitable Fund, 1579 Straits Turnpike, Middlebury, CT 06762. Germaine Thomas, will be missed by those who knew her Germaine (Dudeck) Thomas, 68, wife of John Thomas, passed away at her home in Plantsville, on August 11. Services for Germaine were held on Saturday August 20 at the Zion Lutheran Church 531 • • • • Woodruff St. , Southington. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund 531 Woodruff St. Southington Ct. 06489. Rubbish • Appliances Furniture • Junk Basements • Garages Estate Move Outs SOUTHINGTON (860) 628-1013 www.SouthingtonObserver.com Point & Click Read it all on the Web. www.SouthingtonObserver.com Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 13 •Observing the Arts...........page 14 Good Times •Southington Listings........page 16 •Sports............page 21 Our Night on the Town The blues earned a place in Walter Trout’s heart By MIKE CHAIKEN EDITIONS EDITOR Walter Trout’s lifelong love affair with the blues began as an evolution of his love for music in general. Trout, who comes to Collinsville’s Bridge Street Live on Aug. 26, said when he was growing up he would listen to all kinds of music. His parents introduced him to a lot of jazz, including the efforts of Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. But in 1965, the guitarist’s brother came home with a blues album by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. “I was amazed at the simplicity of the form,” said Trout, “and it’s potential to really express an emotion.” With some music, said Trout-- calling from Huntington Beach, Calif.-the emotion rises from the music. But with the blues, he said, the music rises out of the emotion. And ever since Trout picked up the phonograph needle and put it down on that Paul Butterfield album, he has been on a journey through the blues. Initially, Trout played blues guitar with local bands. Then in 1973, he moved to Los Angeles where he was asked to play support for blues artists such as John Lee Hooker, Big Mama Thornton, Finis Tasby, Pee Wee Crayton, Lowell Fulsom, Percy Mayfield and Joe Tex. In 1981, he joined the remaining members of the ‘60s blues-rock group Canned Heat. Then he was asked to take up the lead guitar slot for John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, the British band that can count legendary guitarists Eric Clapton, Peter Green (early Fleetwood Mac) and Mick Taylor (mid-period Rolling Stones) among its alumni. Trout said when he joined the Bluesbreakers he was very conscious of whose musical shoes he was filling. “I thought about it every night.” As a member of John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, Trout had to play the same songs that Clapton, Green, and Taylor had once played. When he joined the band, Trout asked Mayall if he wanted him to play the leads as laid down by his predecessors. Mayall told him, “If I wanted Clapton to play the same solo on the record, I’d get Clapton.” Guitarist Walter Trout plays in Collinsville Friday night. Mayall told Trout to make the leads his own. Although Trout’s resume is packed with blues experience, he said “a lot of critics don’t feel like I really play the blues.” This became especially true when he decided to become a solo artist. (He has 20 solo albums to his credit.) In the 1990s, Trout had a megahit in Europe with a power ballad. He said critics accused him of becoming Bon Jovi and turning his back on the blues. But Trout said, although he loves blues, he loves other music as well. When he was growing up, he also listened to Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix and Crosby Stills Nash and Young. “I didn’t just listen to one category of music,” said Trout. “It was either good or it was bad.” When he went solo, Trout said he wanted to explore other sides of music. And that’s what he did. But no matter what he did with music, Trout said it was always rooted in the blues, especially in the way he played guitar. “I tried to stay true to music that was honest.” Over 20 years as a solo artist, Trout has been amazingly productive, releasing 20 solo albums, Some artists only may release a handful of albums in that period. Trout said he can’t understand musicians who take years between new albums. “If you want to be a musician, you have to make music.” For him, music is therapeutic. Trout said he has to keep working. If he didn’t release new material regularly, “I’d start going nuts.” For the artists who take so long between albums, he asked, “Don’t they go nuts? Don’t they have music inside them they need to get out?” To the artists who go years without recording new music, Trout said, “Good luck with your mental state.” Trout’s most recent album is “Common Ground,” which was released in July 2010. Trout said he will begin his follow up in October. “I haven’t told anybody yet,” said Trout, “but it’s going to be an actual blues album. There will be no ballads… We’re going to do ‘Walter’s Blues Album.’” Even though he has plenty of experience with the blues as a sideman, Trout said, “I’ve never really done a stone blues album (as a solo act),” said Trout. “It’s time to do just that.” Unlike some artists who opt to do a blues album, where they fill out the sides with traditional blues songs, Trout said he is writing his own blues songs for the album. If he does any covers of traditional blues songs, Trout said he is going to pick something obscure and not something everyone seems to record. “I’m not going to be jukebox of the songs everyone records.” Trout said the world doesn’t need another version of, “Got My Mojo Working.” When Trout comes to Collinsville, he said he intends to perform some songs from his early albums, Then he intends to do a little jamming. And then he’ll hit up some songs from “Common Ground” along with a few cover songs. Walter Trout plays Bridge Street Live at 41 Bridge St., Collinsville on Friday Aug. 26 at 8 p.m. For more information, go to WalterTrout.com or 41BridgeStreet.com Comments? Email mchaiken@bristolobserver. com. 14 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Friday, August 26, 2011 ‘Hedwig...’ rocks Playhouse; Local artist featured . Kellie Lambert McGuire Observing The Arts The notable rock and roll musical “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” will be at Playhouse on Park in West Hartford this weekend for a very limited run. Performances are at 8 p.m. tonight and Saturday. The show, which premiered in 1998, tells the story of a rock and roll band fronted by Hedwig Schmidt, a transgendered East German rock goddess. The production features Gene Dante and Lisa van Oosterum, stars of the 2002-2003 criticallyacclaimed production at the Institute for Contemporary Art Theatre and Axis Nightclub in Boston. Performances are B.Y.O.B., and there will be a free dance party with the cast after Saturday’s performance at Real Art Ways in Hartford. Tickets are $25 for reserved seating. Call (860) 525-5900 or visit www.PlayhouseOnPark.org LOCAL ARTIST SHOW: Terryville resident Jordan Deschene will be featured in a special exhibit at Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon next month. Deschene, who is part of the Paris in Plantsville collective, is finishing his tenure as an artist-in-residence at the Farmington Valley Arts Center. An opening reception for an exhibit featuring his fantasy illustrations and oil paintings will be from 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 9. Deschene’s drawings and paintings are inspired by artists from Dr. Suess to Salvador Dali. His threemonth residency has enabled him to focus on creating “an entirely new body of work using elements of realism and drawing fundamentals, created in harmony with imaginative fantasy,” he said. Visitors can observe Deschene at work in his studio through Sept. 30. Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, as well as by appointment. Deschene also has joined the faculty at FVAC and will lead a class in “Storytelling Through Illustration” from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays starting Sept. 14. Admission to the opening is free. FVAC is located at 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon Park North, Avon. For more information, visit www.artsfvac.org or call (860) 678-1867. LIBRARY NEWS: Artist Jordan Deschene will be featured in an exhibit at the Farmington Valley Arts Center. Deschene, a Treryville resident and a member of the Paris in Plantsville collective, was resident artist at the FVAC. Southington Public Library will finish its “Reads that Refresh” program with its final weekly drawing today, followed by the grand prize drawing for an e-reader on Monday. Good luck, readers! ARTISTS NEEDED: The Farmington Valley Arts Center is seeking artist-in-residence applicants for the fall residency program. The program provides free studio space for fine artists to explore their medium and new directions in their work, as well as enhance their creative vision with support from the center’s studio artists, teachers and professional staff. Applicants must be “emerging,” dedicated to their craft and in need of space to work and create. The program runs from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31. The deadline for applications is Aug. 31. Applications are available online at www.artsfvac.org. The center is also inviting area arts enthusiasts to provide financial support to sustain the program. Taxdeductible donations in any amount can be sent to FVAC at 25 Arts Center Lane, Avon 06001 or via phone at (800) 678-1867. FREE CONCERT: The Bristol Federal Hill Association will present a concert by Cajun Ray and the Steamers at 6 p.m. Sunday on The Green. Bring a chair and a picnic; watermelon and cookies will be provided. In the event of rain, the concert will be canceled. DISCOUNT ‘WICKED’ TIX: A day-of-performance lottery for a limited num- ber of discounted orchestra seats will be held daily for “Wicked,” at the Bushnell Center for Performing Arts in Hartford now through Sept. 11. The special tickets are $25 each, cash only, with a limit of two tickets per person. Each day, two-andone-half hours prior to show time, patrons may put their names in lottery at the Box Office. The lottery will be 30 minutes later. For more information, call (860) 987-5900 or visit www.bushnell.org. FREE TUNES: The Dyno-O-Myte Disco Review will headline Southington’s summer music series on The Green Wednesday night. This will the last concert in the 2011 season. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Rain date is Thursday. Call (860) 2766219 for more information. MOVIE OF THE WEEK: This week’s Southington Drive-In schedule is “The Sandlot,” which is set for the big screen on Saturday. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at sunset. Southington residents pay $10 per carload; non-residents pay $13 per carload. Walk-ins are welcome at $2 a person. Please bring lawn chairs. Food vendors on site and a pavilion picnic area. Send arts and entertainment news and listings, including information on local musicians, artists, theater, film, books and more, to [email protected]. OTHER TheSpace.tk Music listings FRIDAY, AUG. 26 BRISTOL SLACKERS UNION. Downtown Café, 118 Main St., Bristol. OTHER ZZ TOP. 8 p.m. MGM Grand at Foxwoods, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket. $50, $60, and $70. Foxwoods.com, 1-866-646-0609, 1-800-7453000. OPUSPALOOZA 2011. Two stages. Dead by Wednesday, Bound for Pain, Kayotik, Cyperna, Continuum, Wounded Remains, Ceschi, Ira Lee, Virtue and DJ Emoh, The Intercepterz, 5:AM. Toad’s Place, 300 York St., New Haven. ToadsPlace.com 1800 BAND. Illusions Dance Club and Restaurant, 1639 Wolcott Rd., Wolcott. IllusionsDanceClub.com BREAK THRU MUSIC ROCK AND SHOCK SERIES ROUND 1. Impuria, I Came, I Saw, I Conquered, Maniac, Calling All Creeps, Death In The Eyes Of The Beholder, Flesheater, After Ail , Road To Forever, Currents, Here Lies The Traitor, 60 Grit. 6 p.m., The WebsterUnderground, Hartford. WebsterTheater.com SATURDAY, AUG. 27 BRISTOL MILESTONE. Downtown Café, 118 Main St., Bristol. OTHER NASHVILLE DRIVE BAND. Illusions Dance Club and Restaurant, 1639 Wolcott Rd., Wolcott. IllusionsDanceClub.com BATTLE OF THE BANDS. Condemned Forever, Beyond Boundaries, The Human Creation, River Walk, Socially Awkward, She Walks Without Legs, Blabpipe, Live.Love.Die, Tears Of Shadows, The Elements Around Me. 4 p.m. The WebsterUnderground, Hartford. WebsterTheater.com SUNDAY, AUG. 28 BRISTOL CAJUN RAY AND THE STAMERS. 5 p.m. Bring your chair and a picnic. In event of rain, cancelled. Federal Hill Green, Bristol. RED JUNE. 5 p.m. Firebox Restaurant, 539 Broad St., Hartford. Fireboxrestaurant.com TREES ABOVE MANDALAY, The Awakening, The Mega Mega, Lakshmi. 6 p.m., Webster Underground, Hartford. WebsterTheater.com WEDNESDAY, AUG. 31 OTHER OPEN MIC NIGHT. 7 p.m. Featuring Shawn Taylor. 7 p.m. The Outer Space, 295 Treadwell St., Hamden. THE DANGEROUS SUMMER, I CALL FIVES, THE PAPER TRAIL, CINEMA 24. 7 p.m. The Space, 295 Treadwell St., Hamden. TheSpace.tk THURSDAY, SEPT. 1 OTHER CLAUDIA HUGHES, Bob Hughes and the Mark Templeton Trio. Evening of jazz. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mattatuck Museum, 144 West Main St., Waterbury. (203) 753-0381. MattatuckMuseum.org N.J. ROMANIELLO Plumbing & Heating Residential Specialists No Job Too Small Professional, Quality Workmanship 860-620-0567 S3-0386413 P1-00203341 • FAUCETS • TOILETS • WATER HEATERS HUGE SAVINGS on Siding,Windows, Bath & Carpentry Work Glasses, Contact Lenses, and Sunglasses Eyewear Additional Pair as low as CASH REBATE ON HARVEY WINDOWS MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED Advertise here! You’re reading it. Your customers are too! 927 Farmington Avenue BRISTOL, CT 06010 LIC # CT 506413 Neatest & Most Professional Contractor in Bristol 860-589-6475 HOURS Tues, Wed, Fri 10am-6pm Thur 10am-8pm • Sat 10am-4pm Eye & Contacts Exams by Appointment Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 15 Southington Scene New Kelley School first grade teacher Jessica Fletcher Hatton School first grade Joyce Frederick and her student teacher Kati Valenti of show off quilts made 14 goes through some supplies. Fletcher previously years ago by students that will be displayed through the school. taught at Strong School. Getting ready for school Southington students return to school on Monday, August 29. The Observer recently visited some of the schools to chat with teachers and see how they were setting up their rooms for the new year. Photos by TAMMI KNAPIK Sixth grade Depaolo School teachers Heather Valentine and Chris Ryder go through team lists togther. Hatton School third grade teacher Lori Coviello preHatton third grade teacher Brett Rioual hangs up a sign meant to remind stu- pares her classroom early last week. She has taught at the school for close to 13 years. dents not to forget their homework. 16 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Friday, August 26, 2011 Miscellaneous listings SATURDAY, AUGUST 27 SOUTHINGTON SUNDAY, SEPT. 11 SOUTHINGTON PIG ROAST AND CLAM BAKE. 12-6 p.m. at the Southington Elks Lodge. $30 for adults, $15 for kids. Tickets include draft beer, soda, clam chowder, hot dogs, hamburgers, pig and other food. Open to the public. For tickets, stop by the Lodge Tap Room or call 628-6682. 911 DAY OF SERVICE 2011. Southington community will join with other efforts nationwide to make this the single largest day of charitable service in U.S. history as a tribute to the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11. Produce a memorial ribbon or card inscribed with the name of a person who perished in the attacks. During July and August, individuals are asked to perform an act of kindness, act or charity, good deed or say a prayer. (860) 919-1479, SouthingtonRemembers911@ya hoo.com. SOUTHINGTON COUNTY FAIR AND SILENT AUCTION. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Grace United Mehodist Church. Rain or shine. Various vendors. For info, call the church at 6286996. SOUTHINGTON CHURCH TAG SALE. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church, Memorial Hall. FRIDAY, SEPT. 2 SOUTHINGTON LOCAL YOUTH BAND PERFORMANCE. 6-11 p.m. at the American Legion Hall. Public is invited to attend. THURSDAY, SEPT. 8 SOUTHINGTON WELLNESS CLINIC FREE LECTURE. 6:30 p.m. at the Raya Clinic on Queen Street. Topic is fibromyalgia. Gourmet food served compliments of Kess Cafe. For info, call 6212225. SATURDAY, SEPT. 17 SOUTHINGTON NEW BRITAIN HIGH SCHOOL, CLASS OF 1956 REUNION. New Britain High School, class of 1956 reunion at the Aqua Turf. For more information, contact Harry Winnberg, 276-9199. SOUTHINGTON JANE HAZE MEMORIAL DOG EVENT. 10 a.m. to noon at the Southington Care Center. In cooperation with the Jane Hase Memorial Pet Therapy Fund. Various dog activities and wares available. Admission is free. For more info, 621-9559. SOUTHINGTON CRUZ’IN TO THE BIG E. Go to the CT Big E Day with the Cruz’in Congos. Cost includes bus and addmission. For more information, contact Meredith Mann at 628-8982. WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 21 SOUTHINGTON 10TH ANNUAL SUSAN G. KOMEN RALLY FOR THE CURE. Held by the Hawk’s Landing Ladies Golf League. Golf tournament dedicated to life and memory of Gail DePaolo Buktus who lost her battle with breach cancer and was a long-time member of the league. Funds will go to breast cancer research and Breast cancer Outreach programs in Connecticut. 9 hole tournament is a scramble format. Continental breakfast at 8 a.m. and shot gun tee at 8:30 a.m. Luncheon will follow. $75. Non-golfers can attend the luncheon for $30. Opportunities for sponsors. (860) 628-5761, [email protected], (860) 7474384. SOUTHINGTON REPUBLICAN DINNER. 6 p.m. at the Aqua Turf. Sponosred by the Southington Republican Town Committee. Featured speaker is Dan Lovallo, host of radio’s Talk of Connecticut. Tickets are $40 per person without raffle tickets, $50 with. For more information, contact Juanita Champagne at 621-9449 or Brian Callahan at 681-2357. THURSDAY, SEPT. 22 SOUTHINGTON PARENT INFORMATION SERIES. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Southington Youth Services. Series to promote Youth Bullying: An Overview. Registration required, contact 276-6281. SATURDAY, SEPT. 24 SOUTHINGTON TOWN WIDE TAG SALE. Sponsored by The Arc of Southington. Open to all residents and business organizations in town. Maps are availalbe for $1 on the day of the tag sale. To participate contact The Arc of Southington at 628/-9220. SUNDAY, SEPT. 25 SOUTHINGTON LEWIS HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1941 70th REUNION. Noon. at Manor Inn. For further info, contact Gertrude Bafuma at 628-7852. MONDAY, SEPT. 26 SOUTHINGTON HOSPITAL ANNUAL FASHION SHOW. 6:30 p.m. at the Aqua Turf. The Hopsital of Central Connecticut Bradley Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will present its Annual Fashion Show "Passion for Fashion.” There is a charge for this affair, for tickets you can contact the Bradley Memorial Hospital Gift Shop, Joan at 860- 628-8365, Fran at 860-621-0932 or Jean at 860-276-5380 or 860628-7913. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the fashion show will immediately follow dinner. Fashions are from Cold Water Creek, Kathy Faber and Modern Formal for men. SATURDAY, OCT. 15 SOUTHINGTON SHS FALL CRAFT FAIR. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Southington High School. Items to include purses, jewelry, clothing and sporting items. Admission is $1 and will benefit the school. THROUGH, OCT. 6 SOUTHINGTON TAI CHI FOR OSTEOPORSIS AND FALL PREVENTION. Southington Care Center. $35 for Alliance Advantage and CCHA members, $40 for nonmembers. For more info call 378-1258. SOUTHINGTON PARENT SUPPORT GROUP. Are you tired of your kids running your life? Call us, Pat and Dick, 621-4889 or Bill and Marriette, 276-9734. SOUTHINGTON DISCOVERY/CHALLENGER BASKETBALL. Mondays through Dec. 20, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. (younger players) or 7 p.m.-8 p.m. (older players), at Bristol Boys Club, 105 Laurel St., Bristol. Open to athletes aged 5 and up. This program introduces the game of basketball to the players and teaches them various phases of the game as the child advances in their dribbling, passing and shooting of the basketball. Cost is $20 per child, $25 for 2 or more; scholarships are available. Volunteers are also needed to buddy with the children. Contact: Dee ValerioMatyka, (860) 584-1828. SOUTHINGTON ONGOING SOUTHINGTON PARKS AND REC TRIPS. May 28 and 29, Gettysburg and Lancaster. Departs TBA, $365/ PP, $465 single, $285 child. April 16, Statue of Liberty, departure, TBA, $65 per adult $52 for child. April 30, New York City-do your own thing, departs TBA, $45 PP. June 18, Gloucester and Rockport, Lobseter Bake, Departs TBA. $95 PP. BOWLING WITH A BUDDY. Last Saturday of the month during the school year, 9:15 a.m. at Brunswick Super Bowl Lanes, Plantsville. Open to any Southington elementary school students with special needs. Peer volunteers from Southington High School’s Best Buddies program. will be participating in helping the elementary students with their bowling game! Cost is $2.05, which includes shoe rental. Erardi: Looking forward Schools: Teachers are preparing their classrooms the original thirteen she said. “You can do a bit going to talk about what to the new school year From page 1 colonies. of everything that way. If I respect means.” From page 8 a wide range of skills. I am pleased that we will be offering an extended day kindergarten experience to 60 youngsters throughout the year. I, like you, have looked to create authentic learning experiences for children in all grades. I am pleased that all Grade 4 students will experience the emerging environmental science opportunities in partnership with the Southington Education Foundation at Camp Sloper. I, like you, have read for years the State Department of Education’s High School Reform Plan. I am pleased that Southington High School will take a lead in this initiative with precedential work taking place in how we level students with course offerings. Annually, I have ended your back-to-school letter with me telling you how privileged I am to lead this organization. This will be my fifth opportunity to speak at convocation. Over the past four school years, I have witnessed extraordinary people doing special work with children. So much of what you do is without fanfare or celebration. I have come to respect our workforce as the finest I have ever been associated with in my 35 years of service. I am deeply proud of who you are, what you do, and your commitment to the most meaningful work in this country We will make a difference! Dr. Joseph V. Erardi, Jr. is Southington’s superintendent of schools. #1 REASON N TO O CALL L US WE E ONLY Y DO O BATHROOMS! HAVE E YOUR R BATHROOM M PROFES S IONALLY Y REMODELED D IN N JUS T ONE E WEEK. FOR AS LOW AS 5650. $ NOT reglazed or mold hiding liner FREE EST. START MONDAY FINISH THAT FRIDAY Includes: new water resistant sheetrock & taped, new tub & walls, toilet & seat, vinyl or ceramic floor, vanity & marble sink, all faucets, medicine cabinet & light. Installation included approx 5x8. DON’T T NEED D COMPLETE E BATH H REMODELING? Replace with your old tub & tile or shower stall with a INTERLOCKING WATER TIGHT SEAL 45 Years FIBERGLASS TUB & WALL SYSTEM OR SHOWER UNIT! Sheetrock patching, faucet & plum- FOR AS bing included. One day Installation! LOW AS 3150 $ Free Estimates SUMMA CONSTRUCTION SERVICES L.L.C. 1482 Mer.-Wtby Rd, • Southington, CT Licensed & Insured Over 40 Yrs. Experience Owned & Operated CALL (860) 628-0073 Family Lic #00203526 for a welcoming, colorful environment.” Third-grade teacher Karin Fortin, at Strong, works with kids who have become used to school in the years since kindergarten, but may need some guidance when it comes to how they treat their peers. “I’m working towards a theme of respect and development of social skills,” she said. “For the first few weeks, we’re At Derynoski Elementary School, which is beginning the school year with several administrative changes (see story on page 17), special education teacher Erin Reilly has been planning for another year of helping fourth and fifth grade students learn the material in their regular classrooms. “This year, I’m hoping to do a lot of stuff based around learning centers,” Advertise here! You’re reading it. Your customers are too! Call The Observer/Step Saver (860) 628-9645 know what they’re working on, we can pre-teach some of the vocabulary and concepts.” Fifth-grade teacher Keith Tomlinson deals with the oldest kids who are educated at Southington’s elementary schools, and his classroom reflects that. Instead of colorful posters of fruit or animals, the room sports more detailed information about historical topics like The desks for the students are also personalized. “It’s good for them to come in and see their names on their desks along with some work,” he said. “I like it to be friendly, but I also want them to know that when the bell rings, it’s go time.” The first day of school is Monday, August 29. Comments? Email [email protected]. Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 17 New assistant principal at Derynoski By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer The Board of Education appointed Cheshire teacher Marilyn Kahl as the new assistant principal at Derynoski Elementary, the latest in a series of changes for the school. “I’m truly honored to accept this position,” Kahl said. “It’s been a dream of mine.” Former Derynoski Principal Karen Smith is now the district’s Assistant Superintendent, and was replaced by the previous assistant principal Jan Verderame. Officials said there was a great deal of interest in the job. “We were told that 81 candidates applied for this position,” said BOE Chairman Brian Goralski, shortly before the vote. “I’m pleased with the motion that we have before us.” Kahl, a Southington resident, said she has children in the local school system and was pleased to become part of an educational community she admired. Since 1995, she has been a teacher at Highland Elementary School in Cheshire. The appointment was made on the Board of Education’s meeting on Thursday, August 18 and she started the job on the following Monday with a salary of $105,400. When school begins on Monday, August 29, Southington’s largest elementary school will have different leaders but officials said the enthusiasm will remain. “I couldn’t be more excited,” Verderame said. “I get the same butterflies as the kids for the first day of school.” Middle Schools: BOE signs off on new plans From page 1 of renovating the two schools. The updated proposal removes a planned addition to the physical education areas of the schools, and reduces an addition to the music area. Architect Joe Costa said that some of the planned additions could still be possible within existing space at the school. “The bulk of the changes are very minimal,” he said. The architects also reduced contingency funds by a large amount. This had made BOE members nervous at a previous meeting, but the cuts were ultimately left in place. Though the taxpayers will be asked to vote on an $80 million project this November, the town is anticipating that at least half of the costs will be reimbursed by the state of Connecticut. Now that the expected size of the renovated schools is smaller, the district is entitled to additional state funding. Originally the state was set to reimburse 49.6 percent of the project’s cost. Now the expected reimbursement is 52.5 percent. This amounts to a total of about $44.6 million, meaning the net cost to the town is $40.4 million. The school board agreed that even though it was not their ideal plan, there had been good cooperation between the various municipal boards. “The Board of Finance really made us delve deep,” Apple Harvest Festival seeks sponsors Planning has begun for the forty-third annual Apple Harvest Festival in Southington. This event is one of the biggest events held in the state, with an expected attendance of over 100,000 people. Many local non- profit organizations utilize the festival as a main fundraiser; however attendance at the festival is from local communities and across New England. The Southington Apple Harvest Festival will be held September 30 – Oct. 2 and Oct. 7– 9. The festival offers six days of spectacular fun, delicious food, crafts, a parade, and live entertainment. In addition, there is children’s play area and Carnival offering great family fun. Festival organizers are looking for sponsors for specific events, such as the parade and Family Night to name a few, or the overall Apple Harvest Festival. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor contact Melissa Ericksen at 860-2761966. said Chairman Brian Goralski. “We weren’t happy to cut from what we felt was needed, but the process has helped the community to develop a real understanding of this project.” Comments? Email [email protected]. Bands sought for the AHF road race The Race Committee for the upcoming Apple Harvest Festival is looking for local musicians to play music along the 5 mile and 5K race routes for the upcoming Apple Harvest Festival Road Races on Sunday October 2. “We are always continuing to look for ways to enhance the atmosphere and spirit of our races,” John Myers, race director said. “Nothing like a little ‘live’ music to get runners pumped up.” If interested, local musicians should contact John Myers (860-621-8737) by September 9 for more details. As a small gesture of appreciation, Musicians performing would get their names on the back of the runner’s t-shirts. United Way: Organization looks to connect with local teens From page 1 member Rebecca Allard intends to maintain a blog about the group’s activities. “I would like to blog about what is going on with UKnighted Way and also about our achievements,” Allard said. “I also can see myself helping to fundraise with the com- mittee.” Other students on the committee include Alex Queen, Austin Cooley and Tyler Nichols. In addition to helping United Way develop a presence on the internet, the group also hopes to launch its own version of the organization’s signature “Day of Caring” 43 School Street Bristol, CT (860) 589-7135 6:30am-5:00pm 339 West Street Bristol, CT (860) 314-0597 6:30am-6:00pm event, centered on goodwill projects at the high school. The committee will be formally introduced to the public during the Music on the Green concert on Wednesday, August 31, scheduled for about 7:45 pm. Comments? Email [email protected]. Register Now For Fall Classes! 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Calvo The new film, which was produced by Alex (A.D.) Calvo and Todd Slater, and directed by Calvo, Slater used the Connecticut scenery as the backdrop to tell its story. Press materials for “House of Dust” explains the film follows a group of college students who are exploring an abandoned mental asylum. During their adventurey, they “accidentally shatter canisters holding the cremains of former mental patients; inhaling the dusty ash filling the air, they’re soon possessed by the souls once held within them. One, is a convicted serial killer from 1950.” The cast of “House of Dust” features several hot, young actors just getting their names out there including Holland Roden (MTV’s “Teen Wolf ), Steven Grayhm (“The First Ride of Wyatt Earp”), Stephen Spinella (“Angels in America”) Inbar Levi (MTV’s “Underemployed), Nicole Travolta (“The Middle”), Joy Lauren (“Desperate Housewives”), Eddie Hassell (“The Kids are All Right”), John Lee Ames (“Days of Darkness”) and Alesandra Assante (“Looking for an Echo”). “We did an extensive search” for the cast that eventually was slated for the film, said Slater. The producer of “House of Dust” said he looked at hundreds of audition reels and saw hundreds of actors read for the four lead characters in “House of Dust”: Emma, Dylan, Kolt and Gabby. In the end, Slater and Calvo selected Lavi to play Emma; Hassel to play Dylan; Grayhm to play Kolt; and Gabby to play Roden. When choosing who would be coming to Connecticut to film the project, Slater said, “It was all about pulling together an ensemble cast that jelled.” And Slater said, “All of these kids, all of them in their own particular audition, really gelled from day one.” Slater said “House of Dust” especially lucked out in securing Holland Roden, who is part of the really hot “Teen Wolf” on MTV. But Slater explained he does what he can to keep on top of who is new and hot. From top to bottom, Slater said of the cast, when the project starting filming in Connecticut late last month, the actors did “tremendous work. They’re young and talented.” When Slater signed on board as producer of “House of Dust,” he said he did so because he had a prior creative relationship with Calvo. Slater, along with his brothers Grant and Todd, are the principles of Slater Brothers Entertainment. Slater was SUBMITTED Steven Grayhm, left, and Holland Roden in a still from the film, ‘House of Dust,’ which recently completed filming in Connecticut. executive director for Calvo’s first film, “Other Side of the Tracks” and Slater Brothers was on board for Calvo’s sophomore effort, “Melancholy Fantastic.” When Calvo started talking about a third effort, Slater said he wanted to take on a more hand’s on role with the film. Slater said when he first heard the concept for “House of Dust,” he was sold. “It’s so commercial.” And it was a project, he knew he could sell to distributors. Initially, said Slater, Calvo came to him with six different scripts for consideration. But when Slater saw “House of Dust” from writers Nevada Grey and Alyssa Alexandria, he said, “This is the one that hit me over the head.” Slater said he reads hundreds of scripts because that’s his job. And he said it’s usually tough to find a good script. But “House of Dust” was an incredible find. “It’s something I’ve never read before. It’s an original in the college thriller genre.” Slater said “House of Dust” fits right alongside such financially successful horror films as “Insidious,” “Paranormal Activity” and “Prom Night.” “This was a real opportunity,” said Slater of VENDORS VENDORS NEEDED NEEDED Mr. Handy Terryville Congregational Church Needs VENDORS for HIC # 0624078 CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Saturday, November 12, 2011 PLEASE CALL CHURCH OFFICE Now available from your local independent agent! Call Today for your FREE, no-obligation quote: 860-628-7335 SOUTHINGTON INSURANCE CENTER, INC. VERDERAME AGENCY 85 LIBERTY STREET SOUTHINGTON, CT 06489 860.589.0182 10-2 for reservations. Thanks! The AARP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates. One Hartford Plaza, Hartford CT 06155. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. 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Slater also wanted to be part of Calvo’s late production as well because “Alex has grown as a director…Alex is really kind of hitting his stride.” As for why Connecticut was selected for the production site, Slater said he and Calvo had used Connecticut for OUR ENTIRE DINNER MENU IS AVAILABLE FOR TAKE-OUT! Complete Landscaping AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford the previous two films. Many of the crew members they used on those films lived in Connecticut— who they wanted to work with again—were from Connecticut. Additionally, Slater said the state of Connecticut offers great tax incentives for filmmakers who want to work here. “From a financial, budget point of view, there was a lot of upside to filming in Connecticut,” said Slater. Besides that, Slater said, the people of Connecticut were “unbelievably nice and helpful” in making the film a reality. Filming of “House of Dust” wrapped in Connecticut earlier this month after 24 days. Slater said the film will now head into post-production. He said there are plans to seek out a world wide distribution for the film. There already have been some interest expressed in the film even before it’s completed. Low Prices, Dependable Service Owner Operated since 1999 with Lisa or Katrina Valid through September 1st, excluding hours after 5pm Blonde and Beyonde the hair salon 218 Queen Street • 860·620·9736 • Southington, CT 06489 • [email protected] .04 SENIOR DISCOUNT A.C. BURNER SERVICE AVAILABLE AUTOMATIC DELIVERY www.tonysoil.net Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 19 Our Fashions Payless teams up with VersaEmerge singer to get Brash By MIKE CHAIKEN EDITIONS EDITOR The lead singer of the alt-rock band VersaEmerge, Sierra Kusterbeck, has been tapped as the new spokesperson for Payless Shoes’ latest line—Brash. Sierra Kusterbeck will serve as the iconic Brash Girl of the new brand at Payless. Brash was launched this month at Payless stores across the country including the outlets on Queen Street in Southington and Farmington Avenue in Bristol. The brand also is available at Payless.com Brash will feature 120 on-trend shoe and accessory items for teens including footwear in women’s and youth girls’ sizing, handbags, jewelry, hair accessories and beauty products including fragrances and makeup that can be styled and collaged together to create a unique and edgy look. LuAnn Via, CEO of Payless, said in a press release, “Sierra is a Brash Girl and she embodies the brand’s personality — she ATLANTIC RECORDS Sierra Kusterbeck of VersaEmerge. has a unique tough-yet-girlie style, is tremendously creative with her music and fashion and is a perfect picture of Brash style. “I am thrilled to team up with Payless on Brash,” said Kusterbeck in a press release from her label, Atlantic. “I personify a Brash Girl both on and off the stage, and I am excited to inspire others with my role as the face and voice of Brash. I often have girls approach me and ask ‘Where did you get that?’ and now I can say ‘at Payless,’ which for me is really powerful because the Brash brand can help them achieve the bold style they are after because of its affordability and accessibility. Kusterbeck added in the release, “My favorites in the fall line are the Ollie combat boots and the Josie peep-toe wedges — they are sick styles and I wear them a lot and with many different outfits. The beauty items like the eye shadow roller-ball and the lip stain are also amazing.” From the top left clockwise, Bristol’s Vanessa Lawrence, Kayla Tilton, and Dominique Campos wear Brash shoes and Brash bracelets from Payless. All photos by Mike Chaiken 20 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Tasty Bites The Firehouse Bar and Grille Photos and text by Stacey McCarthy Nachos at The Firehouse Bar and Grille. Grilled chicken salad at The Firehouse Bar and Grille. Each week, The Observer hits up the local restaurant scene, offering you an inside look at the culinary delights in central Connecticut. The Basics The Firehouse Bar and Grille Open seven days a week. Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.. Dine-in and takeout available. 54 West Main St., Plainville Phone (860)747-2277 www.firehouse- grille.com The Buzz The Firehouse Bar and Grille won Best Wings Overall and Hottest Wings at the annual Wing Ding contest. They have a newly renovated banquet room that can accommodate up to 60 people and can be used for: business meetings, bridal and baby showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, sports team parties, and other celebrations. The Firehouse Bar and Grille has lunch and dinner specials Friday, August 26, 2011 Monday through Friday. They have Happy Hour specials from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday featuring domestic beer for $2, imported beer for $3, and well drinks for $2. Night time events and specials include: Karaoke and $100 Pong contest on Tuesday and Thursday night, Ladies Night on Wednesday, and live bands on Friday and Saturday night. The Scene Relaxed and friendly atmosphere. As the name suggests, The Firehouse Bar and Grille has lots of firehouse memorabilia and photos around the restaurant and lounge area. Guests can dine at the outdoor patio, in the bar/lounge area, or at one of the tables or booths in the dining room. In Your Glass Full service bar with a large selection of Martinis, frozen drinks, and beer on tap including: City Steam’s Naughty Nurse, Blue Moon, and Guinness. On your plate The Wallet vors of wings. Firehouse Bar and Grille also serves: steak seafood, pasta, burgers, chicken, salads, wraps, and Panini’s. Popular dishes include: grilled chicken salad (spicy Cajun or plain grilled chicken over mixed garden greens with shredded cheddar jack cheese), the Tuesday lunch/dinner special (roasted half chicken with potato and vegetable), and the Friday lunch/dinner special (Captain’s Platter- fried clams, shrimp, scallops, and fish filet over a bed of fries). Appetizers run from $6.50 for jalapeno poppers to $9.50 for chicken or chili nachos. Lunch prices start at $6.95 for a buffalo chicken wrap to $8.95 for a Philly cheese steak wrap. Dinner prices run from $10.75 for fish and chips to $16.75 for an Angus New York strip steak with a side salad and fries. If you’re interested in being featured in a future “Tasty Bites,” email mchaiken@BristolObserve r.com. 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Deadline: Friday 5pm $ ONLY 3 Lines 16 $42 All Towns (plus internet) Phone: 860-628-96 45 Fax: 860-621-1841 Website: www.StepSaver.com $2 for each additional line 2 tag sales per year at personal rate Mail: Step Saver/Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM •• Only Only one auto per week at personal rate www.SouthingtonObserver.com www.BristolObserver.com ONLY All Towns (plus internet) $3 for each additional line Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer 21 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 •Sports Scene Page.........page 22 Sports •ESPN in the News...page 26 •Sports Calendar......page 27 Hall of Fame It all comes down to fundamentals Mike Raczka wouldn’t quit and played his way to the major leagues Southington Sports Hall of Fame Inside the Numbers Southington High School •Played varsity baseball and football. •Went 9-1 as a senior pitcher (1980). •All Conference in baseball (1980). •Inducted into the Southington Baseball Hall of Fame (1991). University of New Haven •All-American (1982, 1984). •All Region (1982, 1983, 1984). •All conference (1984). •Captain (1984). •UNH Male Athlete of the Year (1984). •Inaugurated into the UNH Hall of Fame (1998). •Holds school record for strikeouts (312). •Ranked 2nd in single season strikeouts (145). •Ranked 3rd in innings pitched (235.1). •Ranked 6th in appearances (55). •Ranked 6th in career victories (29). •Ranked 8th in single season innings pitched (115.1). PITCHING STATISTICS FILE PHOTO Mike Raczka throws a strike during a 9-1 season with the Blue Knights in 1981. SPORTS WRITER T o stare down a Mike Raczka fastball his freshman year at Southington High School was a little like playing a game of Russian roulette. The lanky lefty could throw fast. He had great form, but nobody knew where his pitch would cross the plate...not even Raczka. When it comes to Major League hurlers, Raczka was an unlikely prospect. Hall of Fame “ I was fundamentally coached since I was a little kid. If the fundamentals are there, you’re going to win. And you can’t win without it. “ By JOHN GORALSKI Mike Raczka, Former Major League Baseball pitcher Year 1981 1982 1983 1984 Career G 7 17 17 14 55 IP W 12 0 102.3 9 95.7 9 115.1 11 325.3 29 L ShO H 0 0 12 3 2 80 3 2 84 NA NA NA 6 4 176 R 8 40 34 NA 82 ER 6 27 31 NA 64 BB 6 28 35 NA 69 SO 14 63 90 145 312 ERA 4.50 2.37 2.92 NA 2.74 Professional Baseball (MLB) •Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1984. •Debuted on Aug. 15 1992 with the Oakland A’s. •Final game was Sept. 23, 1992 MINOR LEAGUE PITCHING STATISTICS Year Team/Level W 1984 Bal-Min A 1 1985 Bal-Min A 3 1986 Bal-Min AA 8 1987 Bal-Min AAA,AA 6 1988 Bal-Min AAA,AA 1 1989 Bal-Min AAA 1 1990 Oak-SDP-Min AAA7 1992 Oak-Min AAA,A+ 1 1993 Oak-Min AAA 2 1994 Bos-Min AA,AAA 4 1995 STL-Min AAA 5 L 5 2 7 11 5 6 5 2 1 2 3 ERA 8.1 3.32 5.92 7.19 5.45 5.13 4.28 4.03 5.37 2.9 3.86 G 8 35 32 35 47 44 46 37 55 58 55 SV IP H R 0 36.2 44 35 3 97.2 101 55 1 155 170 114 0 112.2145 96 10 66 74 46 2 66.2 75 47 2 67.1 59 37 1 58 51 31 0 60.1 65 39 0 68.1 53 27 1 49 49 23 ER BB SO 33 35 36 36 48 93 102 92 107 90 62 86 40 34 51 38 31 50 32 44 61 26 27 31 36 30 40 22 30 39 21 20 43 MAJOR LEAGUE PITCHING STATISTICS Sometimes, his cool, silky attitude frustrated his high school coaches. The word “potential” seemed to be peppered throughout conversations. His college coach actually cut him from the team in his freshman year, and he came close to doing it again the following year. It took what it took, but that was the spark Raczka needed. He returned to his dorm with tears in his eyes until that old fierce resolve came back. “It’s about not quitting but doing it the right way,” he said. “I’ve seen kids want to just pack things in because they don’t feel like they’re getting a fair shake. There are a lot of unfair shakes in life. You know? You’ve just got to reach in and believe in what you’re doing.” Raczka didn’t set out to make the major leagues. He didn’t set out to dominate a storied college franchise. He didn’t even set out to be a Blue Knight pitcher. Raczka was just one of the gang growing up on Foley Street in the 1970s. He’d roam the streets with his glove dangling from his handlebars, looking for someone to play against. He’d play pick-up games at Hatton Elementary School. He’d play neighborhood rivalries in whatever sport was being offered. In the winter, they’d play hockey on frozen ponds. In the summer, they’d play hit-the-bat or makeshift games with a tennis ball. When the sun was shining, Raczka was outdoors. “There were kids everywhere. It wasn’t like it is today,” he said. “We were always playing something, whether it was baseball, basketball, or football…I wasn’t always the best. I was in the middle, playing against everybody else. I was nothing spectacular, but we didn’t think about it like they do now. Everybody just wanted to play.” So Raczka threw himself into the competition. He joined Year Team 1992 Oakland A’s Career - 1 season W L ERA 0 0 8.53 0 0 8.53 midget football and little league, and he talks about his coaches hammering him about fundamentals. He was a likeable kid. He listened and practiced. Raczka credits their foundation for his later success. “I see what’s happening in Little League. I see the kids here and there. They just don’t seem to be getting the fundamentals,” he said. “I was fortunate. I was fundamentally coached since I was a little kid. If the fundamentals are G SV 8 0 8 0 IP 6.1 6.1 H 8 8 R 7 7 ER BB SO 6 5 2 6 5 2 there, you’re going to win. And you can’t win without it.” Raczka still carries an old, tattered book that his father gave him that’s entitled, The Basic Fundamentals and Mechanics of Successful Pitching, written by Bob Shaw. It was recommended by a former Southington High School pitcher Bill Dickman, and it has become a sort of Bible for Raczka over the years. When he See RACZKA, page 23 22 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Friday, August 26, 2011 Southington Sports Scene Keep up if you can Nobody beats the heat better than Southington athletes. Everywhere you look this summer, there’s somebody competing at something. It can be tough trying to get all of the local happenings into the paper when there’s so much happening, but here’s a few pictures in a look back at a sample of summer sports. SUBMITTED Photos In late July, Southington siblings Caleigh Waskowicz, above, and Zachary Waskowicz, left, took to the water at the USA Water Ski Regionals in Canajoharie, NY. The pair have been waterskiing since the age of two and have been competing since 2009. Both qualified for the USA Water Ski Easern Regionals in early August for a chance to advance to the USA Nationals. Summer doesn’t start until the Grace's Diner women, above, make their annual rally to a softball league title. This year, the locals swept through the regular season with a 14-1 record before dispatching the FirePlace in the championship game of the tournament. The team went on to represent the town in the annual Tri-Town game against league champions from Wallingford and Meriden. Front, from left, Heather Dancsak, Lauren Gerencser, Lindsay Lempicki, Kristina Tolles, Michele Lucas, Steph Kowalec, and Chris Robarge. Back, Liz Collins, Maggie Moniz, Denise Henninger, Laura Barnard, Danielle Cranin, and Donna Theriaults. Zachary placed fourth overall in the boys 9-and-under division for the second straight year and is currently ranked 56 in the nation, 6th in the Eastern Region & 4th in CT. Caleigh improved two places to finish 5th overall in the girls 10-13 division and is currently ranked 83rd in the US & 7th in the East. Here were the final regular season standings: 1, Grace's Diner; 2, Blue Moon; 3, The FirePlace; 4, Southington Urologic; 5, Hawk's Landing; 6, Showcase Automotive. The Western Baseball League 15U Babe Ruth All-Stars, left, finished with a 4-2 record in District 8 competition, eliminating, Vernon, Torrington and West Hartford before being eliminated in the finals. Front, from left, Evan Chialastri, Ethan Min, Kyle Defrancesco, Brendan Donahue, David Shaughnessy, Nick Calabrese, and Sean Danko. Back, Coach Kelly Donahue, Austin Cormier, Alex Martin, Tim Langland, Jake Zimmerman, and manager TJ Calabrese. Not pictured is Josh Irizarry, Jeff Kroeber Once again, the Southington Lightning, above, thundered through the softball world. One week after hosting thier annual Summer Scorcher PONY tournament, the Southington Lightning blue team edged the red team in the final game of their next weekend bracket. At right, The Southington Western All-Stars advanced to the pool championship game at the New Britain Little League Summer Classic. The team consisted of Ryan Case, Josh Cofrancesco, Jared Curtis, Bryce Fournier, John Griffin, Cole Huang-Savino, Keegan Jarvis, Ethan McDonough, Ryan Monte, Erik Olson, D.J. Pestillo, Caleb Richert, Josh Vitti, Matt Weir, manager Jim Richert, and coaches Joe Cofrancesco and Skip Griffin. Above, the 16U Southington Lightning took home the runner up trophies after winning two hard fought games in the Central Valley Fastpitch League Tournament. The team finished the season with an 18-14-3 record, and finished second in two tournaments. Front, from left, Meredith Maynard, Brittany Martel, Kierstyn Bourdeau, and Meghan Parks. Middle, Sarah Hurley, Rachel Lyles, and Karen Falk. Back, Simone Morin, Katie Pistilli, Courtney Smith, Anna Lowe. Back, Coach Dean Hurley, Coach Dan Pistilli, Manager Ralph Parks, Coach Paul Falk. Missing are Coach Jon Potter and Molly Potter. Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer 23 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Hall of Fame Mike Raczka: 2011 Sports Hall of Fame From page 21 JB ack eaulieu • Roofing • Siding • Decks • Additions OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE “ Mike Raczka was the best left hander in the history of University of New Haven baseball— without a question. He’s the greatest left handed pitcher that I’ve ever coached. “ offers instruction to young pitchers, he still flips through pages of the book to study the photographed mechanics from hall of fame pitchers. It’s a fundamental approach that Raczka believes to be critical, and it was one reason why high school coaches suffered through his junior varsity years despite his lack of control. “I think that Mike Raczka was a major league pitcher, and I don’t throw that around lightly,” said Fontana. “He could pick guys off. He had that smooth delivery with his arm up. He had a good leg kick. He could spot the ball. He went from being so wild to being able to put the ball where he wanted to. It was amazing how good he became.” After two years of struggling through starts on the junior varsity field, Raczka got his chance on the varsity mound in 1980, and he made the most of it. The Knights finished 223. losing to Fitch in the state semifinals. Raczka finished the year with a 91 record, and he met University of New Haven (UNH) coach Frank “Porky” Vieira. The storied coach approached him after a postseason victory and asked if he wanted to play for UNH. Raczka leapt at the chance. “He said, ‘OK. Then you’ve got a full ride.’ Then, he turned and walked away,” Raczka remembered. “It had never even crossed my mind before that.” College, on the other hand, was a culture shock to Raczka. With no freshman or JV team, coaches didn’t have the luxury of waiting for him to get up to speed. After a number of slow starts, Vieira kicked the young Raczka off his team in a flurry of obscenities that Raczka said he’ll never forget. “I did it because I’m a jerk. I probably had too much to drink that day,” Vieira said with a laugh. “The fact that he came back says a lot. I think that’s what it’s all about. Maybe that was the Frank “Porky” Vieira, Former University of New Haven baseball coach answer for him to become a major league pitcher. He just came on and came on. He wasn’t great the first few years with me. He was sort of awed by the scene. We had great teams then, but he came on by the time he was a junior or a senior, and he was the best that I ever coached.” Raczka refused to quit, so he returned to practice the next day. He watched teammates practicing in uniforms as he worked out on the sidelines in practice gear. Captains ran him past fatigue. Coaches criticized his every move, but Raczka wouldn’t quit. After a few days, Vieira offered him a second chance. “I told him that I wanted to play for him,” said Raczka. “It was an honor to play for the University of New Haven, for Coach V. It was a mind set, and I didn’t learn it until I was a sophomore. After the first couple of games, I finally got it. Then, I went off on a tear.” Raczka wasn’t satisfied with making the team, he set out to be the best. He is still ranked in the top 10 of six pitching categeories at UNH and still holds the school record for strikeouts (312). He’s ranked second in single season strikeouts (145), third in innings pitched (235.1), sixth in appearances (55) and victories (29), and eighth in single season innings pitched (115.1). Raczka was named as the school’s male athlete of the year in 1984. He was inducted into the UNH J&R ULTIMATE CONSTRUCTION ROOFS FOR LESS For Free Estimate Call Rafal SPECIALIZING IN •• ROOFING • SIDING & GUTTERS Replacement Windows 860-747-8278 860-517-9092 Fully INSURED • License #507199 FULLY INSURED Cell: Office: (860) 402-7116 (860) 826-1253 Hall of Fame in 1998, and he was selected to the ‘AllPorky’ team as one of the best players in his coach’s 45 years on the diamond. “Mike Raczka was the best left hander in the history of University of New Haven baseball—without a question. He’s the greatest left handed pitcher that I’ve ever coached,” said Vieira. “Mike Raczka struck out 17 against Quinnipiac to take us to the World Series. To me, he was the closest thing to Sandy Koufax that I’ve ever seen. His mechanics were outstanding.” Of course, his success drew the attention of major league scouts, and Raczka was drafted in the 11th round by the Toronto Blue Jaysafter his junior season. He returned to school and was drafted by the Orioles the following year. Upon graduation, he was signed to a minor league contract. Over the next eight seasons, Raczka would battle his way through the minor leagues. Once again, he refused to give up. He played the political game, listened to his coaches, and threw strikeouts. “They dump you in a city with a bunch of guys you’ve never met before, and you have to figure it all out. It’s life in the fast lane,” said Raczka. “There were times when I was on a roll, and guys were saying things like, ‘I taught him that,’ or ‘I showed him that curveball.’ Then, you’d get on a bad streak, and GLENN PIERCE they’d say they didn’t want anything to do with you. It’s tough.” In 1992, he finally got his chance at the big leagues. Bob Boone called him into his office in Tacoma, and told him to pack his bags for Oakland. On Aug. 15, 1992, Raczka stepped onto the field against the Angels with a 5-0 deficit in the seventh inning. He faced four batters in a scoreless inning to spark a two-inning come-from-behind rally and a 9-5 Oakland victory. “It’s very hard to describe that feeling. You walk out of the dugout, and you look up to all these cheers going up in the stadium,” he said. “Around you there’s all these guys just going about their business. It’s a business up there. They don’t fool around.” Raczka didn’t become a journeyman. His time in the majors was brief, but it was memorable. He remembers walking into the locker room to see his name posted above a locker. He remembers his family’s faces as they watched him face Mel Hall and Matt Nokes at Yankee Stadium. He remembers having to warm up on the field in Oakland after a teammate’s injury and hearing the crowd boo and hiss because of the delay. Raczka was offered another chance at a AAA contract the following year. His pregnant wife supported him. His friends supported him, but Raczka stepped away from the game with no regrets. “I had my daughter. She was pregnant with the twins at the time. We had just bought a house on Carter Lane,” he said. “It was just time to put it down. I made that decision. I had kids to be a father. I didn’t want that kind of life for them. The decision wasn’t hard. It was hard the following spring during spring training.” Raczka still stays close to the game. He coached his daughter in softball. He works with young pitchers at the Ultimate Baseball & Sports Academy (UBSA) on Spring Street. His twin boys are battling their way JOHN GORALSKI He was cut as a freshman but had worked his way onto the cover of the University of New Haven’s baseball yearbook by 1984. From left, SHS graduate Mike Raczka with teammates Tony Buglione and Roberto Giansiracusa. through the junior varsity ranks. Raczka still stresses fundamentals, and he still studies the tattered book and its pictures. For members of the Southington Sports Hall of Fame selection committee, Raczka was an easy choice. “It’s truly an honor to be mentioned with some of the people that are in there or are going to be in there,” he said. “It’s just amazing that I can be mentioned in the same breath with them. A lot of those people helped me in my career and in my life.” On Wednesday, Nov. 9, he will be inducted into the Southington Sports Hall of Fame at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville. 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Call for your FREE estimate W hat’s in 860-621-3000 Your Walls? www.Insulationct.com Cellulose • Injection Foam • Spray Foam Fully Insured. CT License HIC #620501 Expires 12/31/11 Free Gutters Please call us for a FREE Estimate 860-637-2871 With Purchase any Complete Roof www.ladscapes.com Expires 12/31/11 Insured & CT License #615344 Mention the SEASHELL & save an ADDITIONAL $50! DRIVEWAYS ARE OUR SPECIALITY! BRISTOL PAVING LLC • Patios • Parking Lots • Flat Concrete • Sidewalks • All Work Warranteed • Now Hiring – Experience Required CALL FOR State Lic # 0787613 Residential • Driveways Screened • Topsoil Owner • Supervised Licensed • Bonded & Insured 2011 SPRING SPECIALS 860-589-6177 Bristol, CT Laminate Starting at $ 4 29 sq. ft. Installed Shop At Home Service Guaranteed Lowest Prices 12 Month - 0% Interest Available Lifetime Installation Guaranteed Hardwood –BONUS COUPON– $150 OFF Starting at 549 $ sq. ft. Installed With minimum of $1350 or more. See store for details. 46 East Street, Plainville 860-351-5934 Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 25 26 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 ESPN to expand again, and will get state funds for new jobs By KAITLYN NAPLES STAFF WRITER In addition to its groundbreaking of a new digital center, ESPN is the third recipient of the governor’s new economic development program, “First Five.” Under the new program, the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), has the ability to award financial assistance to the first five companies that pledge to add at least 200 full-time jobs in Connecticut within the next two years. Recently, Gov. Dannel Malloy announced ESPN as number three in the series of five, joining TicketNetwork, based in South Windsor, and Cigna Corp., which is moving its headquarters to Bloomfield. Being the third recipient, ESPN has a $17.5 million loan coming its way from the DECD for construction of the new facility. Adjacent to its existing digital center, ESPN plans to create its 19th building, which will be a 193,000 square foot digital center. “This is a milestone event for ESPN,” said Ed Durso, ESPN’s executive vice president, who added that the first digital center was launched in 2004. Durso said the new digital center will have the “most advanced” audio and video equipment available and will be the largest building on the Middle Street campus. He added that ESPN will continue to keep the state “at the forefront of development and technology.” Gov. Dannel Malloy speaks at a groundbreaking ceremony at ESPN. Malloy announced the sports network giant will receive state funding for pledging to add 200 new jobs. “We are demonstrating our commitment to growth in Connecticut, our home,” Durso said, adding that the commitment will create at least 200 new full-time jobs, with incentives for up to 800. Durso said not all of the jobs will be technical jobs, but also other areas like research and administrative support. Chuck Pagano, executive vice president and chief technology officer at the sports broadcasting network, said the new digital center will house four studios, six control rooms and 26 editing studios, in four levels. He said the new digital center will be able to create the best programming delivered to ESPN’s viewers. He added that Digital Center 2 will eventually be the home of the network’s program, SportsCenter. Malloy said ESPN is a leader in technology and in media. He said it is important for Connecticut “to keep an eye on the homegrown success story” that ESPN is. ESPN, he said, continues to “reinvest and reinvent,” adding that its commitment to Connecticut “assures that other businesses will be joining Connecticut.” Mayor Art Ward called ESPN “a phenomenal asset to the city,” adding that the sports network has always been committed to the city. In regards to being able to build up the company in other states, Durso said it is preferred that ESPN tries to stay in Connecticut to be “as equal as we can.” The company has recently expanded in California and Texas, with two new production facilities. In addition to the $17.5 million loan, the state will provide up to $1.2 million for a job training grant program, which is costing the company $300,000 just for 200 jobs. KAITLYN NAPLES Gov. Dannel Malloy announced ESPN as the third recipient of the First Five initiative. ESPN also held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new digital center. Every additional 100 jobs will cost the company another $150,000. Also, the Connecticut Development Authority may assist with cost of capital equipment and construction materials, providing up to $6 million in sales use tax exemptions. ESPN also plans to invest more than $100 million into the new building. Selected home offerings from: Southington, Bristol, Plainville Hot Properties 41 Deerfield Trace Burlington, CT Price: $449,900 Agency: Country Manor Realty Contact: Karen at 860-589-2100 Features: Call now and see this lovely 8 room Contemporary/ Colonial sitting on 1.3 Acres with absolute privacy, 4 BRs, LR & FR w/fireplaces and sliders onto a large deck, hardwood floors, extensive decking, and a fantastic set up with inground pool, finished walkout lower level. 276 North Main St, Southington (860) 621-7323 www.realty3CT.com SOUTHINGTON Phenomenal home located on a quiet cul-de-sac. New kitchen with stainless appliances and granite counters. Built-ins and moldings everywhere. Master bath anyone would die for!! New roof, siding, boiler and more! Too many updates to list. Pictures show this homes beauty! Visit www.33DaleDrive.com or visit http://tour.circlepix.com/home/WU96NE. $294,900 Call Roy Evjen (860) 919-7078 SOUTHINGTON NOT A THING TO DO in this immaculate 4 bedroom Cape that offers newer siding and mechanicals. Possible first floor master. Gleaming hardwood floors, C/Air, large TREX deck leading to great yard. $239,900 Call Matt Denorfia (860) 621-7323 x229 1201 Farmington Ave, Berlin (860) 828-3230 SOUTHINGTON MINT! MINT! MINT! Picture perfect bi-level offers almost 2,100 sf of living space for family comfort. Features 3 nicely-sized BRs, formal dining room, family room w/ FP. Set on a gorgeous private lot, perfect for family fun! $289,900 Call Beth Smedick (860) 621-7323 x222 BRISTOL Neat & Sweet Ranch offers updated kitchen, fully applianced with tile flooring. Living room has an attractive fireplace. Hardwood floors recently refinished. Really attractive 1/3 acre lot with pool and nice deck. $139,900 Call (860) 621-7323 REALTY 3’S QR CODE OF THE WEEK Most of our listings have a Quick Read Code on their sign so you can use your Smart Phone to see listing info and photos immediately. Try it! 43 Porriello Drive, Lot 4 Southington, CT 1 Cedar Grove Road Southington, CT Price: $479,900 Agency: Century 21-Lil Contact:Lil Polak at Ext 310 Features: Two Story Heaven.....So picturesque, 4 BRs, 2.5 Price: $194,900 Agency: Jensen Communities 55+ Contact: Jan Sherr at 860-793-0281 Features: Custom designed open floor plan and all on one baths, in Meadow View Farms, is perfect blend of beauty and practical design and Energy Star savings and unfinished walk up attic. Over 2600 sq ft with large kitchen/dining and family room area. Great views of the mountain side. MLS# G572827. [email protected]. level. 3 bedroom, 2 bath home. Spacious kitchen features breakfast counter. Dining room with slider to open 10x16 deck. Bonus feature 22’x22’ carport with added storage. Enjoy comfort and energy efficiency year round with gas utility service and central air. Let Jensen’s communities start next chapter of the good life. Brought to you by: 213 Spring St., Southington, CT To feature a home in Hot Properties, call our Advertising Dept., 860-628-9645 www.SouthingtonObserver.com • www.StepSaver.com • www.BristolObserver.com 8-26-11 Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 27 Sports Calendar FUNDRAISERS BLUE KNIGHTS AT TD HOMERS— Wednesdays at TD Homer’s Sports Grill, Queen Street. Mention that you would like to support Southington Athletics. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the entire Southington High School Athletic Program. LADY KNIGHT SWIMMING SHAKE-A-CAN—Saturday, Aug. 27-Sunday, Aug. 28, at Stop & Shop. Proceeds benefit the SHS girls swimming and diving team booster club. LADY KNIGHT SWIMMING CAR WASH—Sunday, Sept. 25, at Southington Auto Wash. Proceeds benefit the SHS girls swimming and diving team booster club. LADY KNIGHT SWIMMING PANCAKE BREAKFAST— Sunday, Oct. 16 at Applebee’s Restaurant, Plainville, CT. Proceeds benefit the SHS girls swimming and diving team booster club. TOURNAMENTS 18th ANNUAL SOUTHINGTON CHAMBER CELEBRITY CLASSIC—Wednesday, Sept. 28, shotgun start at 10:30 a.m., at Hawk's Landing CC. Tournament features food before, during, and after with two hole-in-one challenges ($10,000 and a 2011 Chevy Cruze) and features celebrity emcee Rich Coppola (Fox 61) and eight former Red Manage a men’s softball league team Any manager interested in participating in the Southington Men’s Fall Softball League should register their team in the Southington Parks and Recreation office as soon as possible. You must pick up a roster sheet and sign in. The league is for town residents only. Bring you roster, along with a check for $400 for registration fee, made out to Town of Southington. League play will begin shortly. Questions, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 276-6219. NEW BRITAIN 6 ROOM 1ST FLOOR CAPE FOR SALE Sox players, including Luis Tiant, Rick Miller, Bill Campbell, Steve Renko, Steve Braun, Lee Stange, Dick McAuliffe, and Gary Waslewski. Cost is $450 for a foursome. Proceeds benefit the Southington Chamber of Commerce. Contact: (860) 6288036. GAIL DEPAOLO BUTKUS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT—Wednesday, Sept. 21, 8:30 a.m. shotgun start, at Hawk’s Landing CC. The Hawk’s Landing Ladies Golf League will hold their 11th annual golf tournament. The 9-hole scramble tournament benefits the Susan G. Komen Rally for the Cure foundation. Cost is $75 and includes greens fees, cart, and luncheon. Contact: Pauline DiNello, (860) 747-4384 or Grace Terry, (860) 628-5761 or email [email protected]. KENNY HILL JR MEMORIAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT— Saturday, Aug. 27-Sunday, Aug. 28 at the Bob Garry tennis facility at Southington High School. Open format in 12 divisions for all ages and skill levels. Cost is $35 per person ($20 for juniors and $15 for additional events). Proceeds benefit the Kenny Hill Jr Memorial Scholarship Fund. Registration deadline is Aug. 19. Contact: Ken Hill, (860) 276-8179 or at [email protected]. REGISTRATION DEPAOLO VOLLEYBALL TRYOUTS—Thursday, Sept. 1, Friday, Sept. 2, and Monday, Sept. 6, after school in the gym. SOUTHINGTON YMCA Registration for the following classes and programs, unless otherwise noted, can be made at the Southington Community YMCA Member-ship Services Desk at (860) 628-5597 or online at www.southingtoncheshireymca.org. 8 WEEKS TO A BETTER YOU (OPEN TO NON-MEMBERS)— Registration is underway. Program meets Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from Aug. 29-Oct. 21, 10:30 a.m.11:30 a.m. This free fitness program is offered by the Southington Community YMCA through collaboration with the Southington Health Department. Participants must be Southington residents aged 18 years and See CALENDAR, page 28 Northfield Condominiums Plainville Joanne Alfieri Joins Southington Office Of Prudential Connecticut Realty OPEN SUNDAY 1-3pm $264,900 • 1417 sq ft Joanne Alfieri has recently joined Prudential Connecticut Realty as a Sales Executive. The announcement was made by Sandy Failing, Office Leader. 23 Free Standing Units Joanne will be responsible for residential sales, including single and multi family homes, condos, and land. Joanne’s background in leadership and lending complements her years of experience in the real estate industry. She has demonstrated expertise in the Southington market and surrounding towns. Active Adult Community Capes & Ranches “Joanne shares Prudential Connecticut Realty’s commitment to quality and customer service,” said Sandy Failing, Office Leader. “She is exactly the type of sales professional we are seeking, as we continue to find the best people to service our clients.” 3BR, living room, dining room, kitchen, 1 bath, 3 season porch, 1 car garage, freshly painted refinished HDWD floors, new roof & heat. Move in condition $160,000 CALL 860.747.2876 860.518.0041 Tryouts will be done by 5:30 p.m. each day. A sports physical form and emergency form must be completed prior to trying out, and a yellow card obtained from the school nurse. See the Southington schools website for more information. Contact: Robin Thompson at [email protected]. “Prudential Connecticut Realty’s focus on the customer and its goal to provide the best products and services for its sales professionals are what make affiliating with the company the best choice possible,” said Joanne. “I work with both buyers and sellers, delivering outstanding service. Your goal is my goal.” This makes her a perfect fit for Prudential Connecticut Realty, whose vision statement is to be the best service provider. Prudential Connecticut Realty is consistently ranked #1 in Connecticut as the largest, full service real estate company in the state and the 19th largest in the United States. For more information, visit www.prudentialCT.com. Introducing Our New Model! 1012 sq ft $274,900 • 1548 sq ft $249,900 Dircetions: Rt 177 (Plainville Ave) to Bradley Street $289,900 • 1825 sq ft 894 South Main Street, Plantsville, CT 06479 860-621-7130 SOUTHINGTON • 860-621-6821 • 441 North Main St SOUTHINGTON NEW TO THE MARKET $496,000 Beautiful home, built in 2004, has all the genuine feel and essence of an original 1800s Victorian-style house. Full of vintage charm. 3 bedrooms; 2 1/2 baths. As unique as they come. Please contact Henri Martin to schedule a showing. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE GIBSON TEAM AND CARRIE KORENKIEWICZ TOP LIST & TOP SALES EXECUTIVES FOR THE MONTH OF JULY Call Henri Martin today (860) 589-0101 for details or visit our website www.henrimartinrealestate.com Carrie Korenkiewicz 860-378-3220 Top List BRISTOL-A GORGEOUS 2400 sq. ft Colonial at end of cul de sac, w/ nice open floor plan dream kitchen w/granite, SS appliances, center island, pantry and opens to the FR w/FP & door to large deck, FDR/LR combo with vaulted ceiling & French doors to another deck w/views of Cedar Lake,2.5 BAs,1st floor MBR suite,4 BRs, finished walkout LL & 3 car garage. A GREAT PRICE OF $399,000. BRISTOL-BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED this 6 room, 3 Bedroom Victorian Colonial w/new addition,new bath on 2nd floor & kitchen w/SS appliances, cabinets, tile floors, HW floors in LR & FDR, over 1300 sq. ft situated on a nice lot with a barn that can be used as a garage. A lot of house for $185,000. BRISTOL-A UNIQUE SPLIT LEVEL with all new appliances, newer 1st floor laundry & half bath, 2nd level step up into the huge LR and dining room w/full wall stone fireplace , stone FP, 2 double sliders to a 15x18 Florida room, c/air, professionally landscaped gardens & stone walls with a babbling brook in the backyard to enjoy, 2 car garage and a lot of house for $259,900 For all your real estate needs CALL Mike & Joyce and Carrie at 860-621-6821 SOUTHINGTON • OPEN SUN 1-3 PM 134 SUN VALLEY DRIVE • $214,900 SOUTHINGTON • OPEN SAT & SUN 1-3 PM 2118 MERIDEN WATERBURY RD #12 • $222,900 SOUTHINGTON • OPEN SUN 12-2 PM 120 WONX SPRING RD • $227,500 Remodeled 3 Bedroom, 1 bath Ranch with 2-car garage, fully applianced remodeled kitchen, HW floors, finished LL and more. GREAT NEW PRICE TOO! DIR: Pleasant St to Sun Valley. New Construction... 2 BR Townhome w/ loft, 2.5 BAs, SS appliances, HW flrs, conveniently located. Prices starting at $209,900. $5000 credit to buyers for closing costs. DIR: I84 exit 28 (west towards Wolcott) look for Winterberry Woods sign. Updated Cape featuring 3 bedrooms, remodeled kitchen & baths, HW floors, new furnace, electrical, roof, etc. Nice level yard & more! DIR: Marion Ave to Wonx Spring CARRIE • 860-378-3220 GIBSON TEAM 203-213-4141 CARRIE • 860-378-3220 SOUTHINGTON • $269,900 NEW TO THE MARKET THINKING OF SELLING? CALL 860-621-6821 FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS! SOUTHINGTON • $162,000 GREAT NEW PRICE BRISTOL-WALK TO SHOPPING from this well cared for ful dormered Cape with eat-in kitchen, FDR or 4th BRs, 2 full baths, newer windows & roof. A great yard with big deck & carport. JUST $154,900. Well maintained Bi-level featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, beautiful 3 season room off kitchen, FP, 2-car garage & more, set on a cul-de-sac. THE BEST AT WHAT WE DO! 860-589-2100 cmrbristol.com SANDRA 860-378-3230 BRISTOL-A NICE CLEAN RANCH HOME w/ FR addition,, newer windows & siding, remodeled eat-in kitchen, 3 BRs, 1.5 baths, HW floors, 1st floor laundry, LR, rec. rm, and garage on a nice lot. ASKING $229,900. Mike & Joyce Gibson 203-213-4141 Top Sales Picture perfect 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath Condo in Spring Lake Village (an adult community) featuring new bamboo flooring, new lighting & window treatments, new paint, garage, full basement & more. Rental is $1,150/MO. SANDRA 860-378-3230 SOUTHINGTON • 860-621-6821 • 441 North Main Street 28 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 Friday, August 26, 2011 Sports Calendar From page 27 older. This program is open to non-YMCA members. Participants will be guided through a fitness consultation and equipment orientation by certified staff and progress will be charted. Women have the option of using the Women’s Health and Wellness Center for this program. Babysitting service is available for a fee. Enrollment is limited to one session per participant and must be made in person at the membership services desk. No hiding for champs Call Now For A Free Market Analysis http://www.c21agold.com E ! IC ED PR UC D RE HOW MUCH IS YOUR HOME WORTH? Call one of our real estate professionals for a market evaluation of your property. BRISTOL The charm of yesteryear mixes w/modern flair, many updates to this three bedroom, two bath home, new and fabulous master bedroom suite with walk in closet, full bath beautiful original woodwork, newer roof, siding, most windows, enclosed 21' x 8' front porch for relaxing. $199,900 EN 12O P AY D N SU BRISTOL Contemporary style 4 room condo, featuring 2 bedrooms, large main level bedroom with sliders to rear deck, living room w/cathedral ceiling, 18x15 loft adds 270 sq., ft., of living space not included in sq., ft., close highway and ESPN. Call Susan Gorski-$95,000 BRISTOL Many possibilities with this 5 RM ranch, featuring 3 BRs, spacious EIK with breakfast bar,FP’d living room, new roof, open porch, garage is a mechanic’s dream-2 car garage with large workshop behind and a 21’ x21’ room above garage. Call Bruce LeBeau- $155,000 PARKS & REC TRIPS Payment is due at registration. All trips are non-smoking and nonalcoholic. Insurance is available. Most trips depart from the commuter parking lot in Plantsville. Groups smaller than 15 will depart from the Bee Street Commuter Parking Lot in Meriden. Checks should be made payable to Town of Southington. Contact the Parks & Rec Dept at (860) 276-6219. Thank You to our Loyal Clients and Customers for voting us one of the “Best Top 3 Agency’s” in Southington, Plainville and Bristol for 2010! The Hydeaway Café, recently (8/12) won the C1 Division Town Championship. The team beat Billy O’s in a best two out of three series 2-0 to capture the championship. Pictured, front row (kneeling): J.D. Musto, Paul Camire, player/manager Scott DePaolo, Mark Port, and Scott Harves. Middle row: Mike June, Dave Rodriguez, Bob Bruton, Rob Yard, and Pete D’Agostino. Back row: Bob Bruno, Kevin Miller, Scott Schmid, and Walter Kustra. E ! IC ED PR UC D RE PRESCHOOL & YOUTH GYMNASTICS—For children ages 16 months and up in a state-of-the-art facility located at 26 Putnam Place, Plantsville. The programs are designed to enhance the child’s strength, flexibility, hand eye coordination, and social and listening skills. The YMCA also offers a competitive gymnastics program where participants compete in YMCA and USAG meets.YMCA instructors encourage and support children and serve as positive role models. Contact: Nancy Bauman, (203) 272-7688. BRISTOL Move right in to this immaculate well maintained ranch located on a dead end street. 5RMs 2-3 BRs, FR w/ FP, 3 season sunroom overlooking private manicured yard. House has vinyl siding, updated windows and roof. Newer oil fired furnace and separate hot water heater. Beautiful hardwood floors and tastefully painted walls. Won’t last. $139,900 Call Paula Ray for more details. A-Gold Action Realty, Inc. 89 North Street • Rt. 6 • Bristol (860) 589-1111 E-mail [email protected] PLANTSVILLE This Ranch would be perfect for the retiree or 1st time buyer, featuring two bedrooms, fully applianced kitchen, newer windows, two car detached 24' x 24' heated garage in addition to 10' x 10' stick built shed, chain link fence, set on a cul-de-sac. $174,000 BRISTOL Come view this Donald Gardner built home, unique in a class by itself with spectacular décor thru out this four bedroom, 5.5 bath home, a custom designed kitchen with Corian counter tops, and oak paneled appliances, two story entrance with pillars, possible 1st floor in law suite. $575,000 PLAINVILLE This perfect maintenance free Ranch has newer windows, furnace & roof, air conditioning, hot water heater and more, a great kitchen with plenty of cabinets, the living room with built ins, finished lower level great addition with bar area, one car detached garage. $169,900 SOUTHINGTON • RENTAL / LEASE Lovely Colonial home for lease with 1st floor family room with fireplace, formal living and dining room, three bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 1st floor laundry. $2,200/month 2 451 WATERBURY ROAD • BRISTOL This newly built 2000' Colonial with three bedrooms, 2.5 baths, the master bedroom with huge walk in closet, 1st floor family room, eat in kitchen with granite counter tops, living room with fireplace, central air, two car attached garage. $289,900 Dir: Rt 372 to 451 Waterbury Rd PUTNAM AGENCY REAL ESTATE, LLC Southington Commons, 943 Queen Street, Southington Paula Ray Owner/Broker Eachh officee is independentlyy owned andd operated 860-628-5691 • Serving Your Real Estate Needs for Over 47 Years • Fax 621-7054 email: [email protected] Visit our Website putnamagencyrealestate.com BAY-MAR REALTY 860-582-7404 OPEN EVENINGS & WEEKENDS BRISTOL ~ Lovely 6 RM Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Set on a large level lot. Living room w/ FP, updated kitchen, roof, siding, furnace. Three seasons porch overlooking large rear yard. $235,900 BRISTOL ~ Sunny and bright Raised Ranch, with 6 rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, eat-inkitchen, FDR, family room, C/Air, 1 car garage, quiet setting. ASKING $229,900 BRISTOL ~ Colonial with plenty of vintage charm, newer windows, walk up attic, a car garage, front and rear porches. SOUTHINGTON ~ Spectacular Vicotian Colonial. This house is completely renovated. 8 RMs, 4 BRs, 2 BAs, large kitchen, dining area, FR, LR w/stone FP, whirlpool tub, C/A, 3 car garage, workshop and plenty more to look at. TERRYVILLE ~ MUST SEE! Picture perfect Townhouse style Condo. This unit features 4 rooms, 2 bedrooms, 1 1⁄2 baths, eat-inkitchen, full basement. End unit, walk to Lake Winifred and park. Fully applianced. PRICED TO SELL $89,900 BRISTOL ~ Great starter home. 6 room Cape with 4 bedrooms, EIK, hardwood floors, level lot, located near the park, and best of all its ONLY $127,900 BRISTOL ~ Brick front Colonial. 3 BRs & 2.5 BAs. Front to back master suite w/gas FP & master bath. Gourmet kitchen. Front to back FR w/gas fireplace & window seats. Arched doorways & crown molding. A Must see! OFFERED AT $479,900 BRISTOL ~ Federal Hill Colonial! A little restoration is all that this home needs. 10 rooms, 5 BRs, 2 BAs, sunroom, FDR, living room with FP, first flr MBR, wrap around front porch, 1 car garage. REDUCED $169,900 BRISTOL~ Victorian Colonial on .35 acres. Hardwood floors, remodeled kitchen, 3-4 BRs with 2 full baths. Beautiful stained glass. New gas boiler, 200 amp electrical. Move in condition. OFFERED AT $212,000 BRISTOL ~ JUST LISTED Two family with over a thousand sq ft per unit. Each apartment has 4 rooms, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. Separate utilities, 1 car garage, plenty of parking. BRISTOL ~ Super clean two family home. Each unit has 5 rooms, 2 bedrooms, eat-in-kitchen, dining room, enclosed porch, seperate utilities, 2 car garage, located near park. $159,900 BRISTOL ~ JUST LISTED Picture perfect Townhouse style Condo located in a small quiet complex. This unit has 4 rooms, 2 BRs, 1.5 BAs, finished rec room, full basement, EIK with sliders that lead to rear deck. $121,900 $229,900 ASKING $169,900 ONLY $109,900 Friday, August 26, 2011 The Step Saver/ The Observer To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 29 Southington, CT • For people 55 and over. 860-793-0281 / 1-800-458-6832 visit our website: jensencommunitites.com SOUTHINGTON: $189,900 SOUTHINGTON: $194,900 Private Setting surrounds this unique 3 BR, 2 full BA home. Spacious kitchen features island with all appliances remaining with the home plus washer/dryer. 12’x14’ Four Season Sunroom to enjoy for all the seasons of New England. 12’x12’ utility building and 14’x24’ Carport. Enjoy comfort and energy efficiency year round with natural gas utility service and central air conditioning. Now is the time to get in on the Good Life. Custom designed open floor. This 1,654 sq. ft. home features 3 BRs, 2 full BAs, oak cabinets and pantry in kitchen with breakfast counter. DR w/slider to 10’x16’ deck. Laminate flooring accents spacious LR. All closets have been custom built. Bonus feature 22’x22’ carport with added storage. 12x12 utility building with electricity. Enjoy comfort and energy efficiency year round with natural gas utility service and central a/c. SOUTHINGTON: $142,500 G! TIN W NE LIS PLAINVILLE: $116,200 Ready to make a change? If so then this 2 BR, 2 full BAhome is waiting for you. Large EIK featuring Atrium door to a 10’x16’ deck. Pantry in kitchen, walk in closets in both BRs. In the LR there is an electric FP for those cool nights. Great feature is a separate laundry RM. All appliances remain with home. Washer/dryer included. Central air. 10’x12’ utility building and 16’x24’ carport. Surround yourself with the peaceful setting of this 2 BR, 2 full BA home. The kitchen is open to dining and LR. All appliances remain with the home. Separate laundry room. Enjoy comfort and energy efficiency year round with gas utility service and central air conditioning. SOUTHINGTON: $75,000 Just listed! Great price move in condition home! Split bedrooms, large eat in kitchen & living room. Many cabinets. All appliances remain with the home including washer/dryer. Back yard features peaceful setting overlooking brook Central air. 8’x22’deck with 9’x24’ awning and 10’x10’ utility building with electricity. Ready for immediate occupancy SOUTHINGTON: $79,900 SOUTHINGTON: $108,000 A must see. Move in condition! This home features 2 BRs, 2 full BAs, fully applianced kitchen w/ open floor plan to DR and LR. The kitchen has plenty of cabinets including a pantry. The MBR has a large walkin closet. Ceiling fans living room and both BRs. C/air, 10x12 utility building, 15’x22’ carport. Ready for immediate occupancy. SOUTHINGTON: $98,900 SOUTHINGTON: $87,000 G! TIN W NE LIS Move in condition! New Listing, great location, immaculate home. Split bedrooms, large eat in kitchen open to spacious living room. Alloc flooring in kitchen, living room and hall. All appliances remain with the home. Central air. 8’x24’ deck with 9’x26’awning. 10’x10’ utility building with electricity. Ready for immediate occupancy ! G TIN W NE LIS Ready for Immediate Occupancy! Ready to make that move, this 2 BR, 1.5 bath home is just what you’re looking for. arge eat in kitchen open to living room. Oak cabinets and pantry. All appliances remain with home including Washer/dryer included. Central air, 12’x12’ utility building and 14’x20’ carport. 10’x24’deck with 11’x26’awning. Ready for immediate occupancy. TERRYVILLE: NEW SELLING PRICE - $45,000 TERRYVILLE: NEW SELLING PRICE - $45,000 Priced to Sell! This home features 2 BRs, 1.5 BAs, EIK and a large LR. The following appliances remain with the home: refrigerator, smooth top stove, dishwasher, microwave, garbage disposal, washer and dryer. Plenty of closet space. 12x12 utility building. Central air. Don’t delay. Call today! Ready for immediate occupancy. Affordable updated home. 2 BRs, 1 BA, EIK with all appliances included (refrigerator, gas stove, dishwasher, microwave, washer/ dryer.) Pergo flooring throughout. Features cheery LR w/ slider to 10x18 open deck to enjoy your morning breakfast in upcoming spring and summer months. Don’t delay call today. Brand new home! Complete with 2 bedrooms and 1.5 baths. The following appliances are included, stove, dishwasher & microwave. 10x12 vinyl storage shed. Central air and beautiful patio setting in backyard. Updated maple cabinets in kitchen and breakfast bar. CENTURY 21® AGENTS ARE FAST. WE’RE TALKING LIGHTNING - FAST. FAST LIKE FIND YOUR DREAM HOME - BLINK - YOU’RE LIVING THERE. OKAY, MAYBE NOT THAT FAST, BUT CLOSE. W G NE TIN S LI W G NE TIN S LI W G NE TIN S LI EN 1-3 OP N SU EN 1-3 OP N SU EN 1-3 OP N SU SOUTH GLASTONBURY New Construction....4 BR 2 1⁄2 BA Colonial on 1.5 acre lot with view of Connecticut Valley located on quiet cul-de-sac. Open floor plan. Custom kitchen with cherry cabinets, center island, skylight, cherry/mahogany floor, granite counters and flooring thruout. Architectural custom woodwork detail. $650,000. Adrianna Kolodziejzcyk x367. MLS# G600883. [email protected]. SOUTHINGTON Come Out Now and See What Value Is All About...In this 3 BR L-shaped ranch. Large EIK with skylight and lots of cabinets. Formal dining room, living room has skylight and fireplace. Roof is 5 years old. 3 season porch. Hardwood floors. Close to schools and shopping. $292,500. Linda Voisine x366. MLS# G601436. [email protected]. SOUTHINGTON Unique Ranch…With 4 bedrooms, oversized kitchen with new stainless steel appliances. Dining with pellet stove, 2 full bathrooms, new hot water heater, large yard. Conveniently located. $237,000. Call Linda Voisine x366. MLS# G599056. [email protected] 320 EDGEWOOD CIRCLE • SOUTHINGTON Ranch...Super cute ranch. Perfect for 1st time or downsizing. Central air, hardwood, partially finished basement, remodeled kitchen. $210,000. Cheryl Hilton x385. MLS# G585054. [email protected]. Dir: Mt Vernon Rd to Pennywise to Sunnyslope, right onto Edgewood Circle 222 ALEXANDER RD • NEW BRITAIN Price Reduced!...Roomy 4 BR Cape with new siding, updated kitchen with granite counters, new windows and carpeting. Huge family room with lots of windows. $132,900. Linda Voisine x366. MLS G594673. [email protected]. Dir: Farmington Ave to Alexander Rd, or Stanley St to Alexander Rd 990 SOUTH END RD • SOUTHINGTON Colonial...Fabulous colonial, light and bright with open floor plan on approximately 1.5 acre lot. FR, den with skylights, slider to large deck, surround sound throughout, FR, kitchen and outside deck and electronic awnings. $369,500. Adriano Gheorghiu x325. MLS# G586567. [email protected]. Dir: Meriden Waterbury Rd (322) to South End Road 38 HOMESDALE AVE SOUTHINGTON Ranch...2 BR 1 BA Ranch in great location. 2 additional bedrooms and family room in LL, 95% finished, w/ slider to rear adds approximately 500+ sq ft not listed. Large deck, large backyard, great location, close to schools, shopping and more. Price to sell! $154,000. MLS# G581728. [email protected]. Dir: Berlin Street to Homesdale Avenue SOUTHINGTON Tucked Away on Southington’s East End...Is this priceless gem with 6000 sq ft, 4 BRs, and 3.5 BAs. Additionally there is a butler’s pantry with full kitchen, 3 sitting rooms, office, bonus room and 2 laundry rooms, basketball court and two spacious stone patios, plus 2 FRs and home theater. Perfect location for those who consider privacy more of a necessity than luxury. $895,000. Lil Polak x310. MLS# G560130. [email protected]. WATERTOWN Raised Ranch...Totally updated over sized raised ranch, hardwood floors, new windows, roof, gutters, siding, hot water heater, c-air, bathrooms, wet bar in finished lower level as well as full bath, wood stove, security system. Nothing to do but move in. $329,900. Linda Kaverud (agent related). MLS #597058. [email protected]. SOUTHINGTON 30 Lot Subdivision… Homesites starting at $195,000. Colonials, Ranches, Capes, Contemporary. Call and reserve your homesite today or pick a plan to build your dream home. Many plans available. Call Lil Polak x310. [email protected] WOLCOTT Classic Ranch..Country Setting....For this 3 1 BR, 1 ⁄2 BA w/ country kitchen, 1st floor laundry, MBR with bath, sliders to sundeck, LR with FP, wood floor, .56 acre lightly wooded lot plus barn and many updates. Only $204,900. Dick Rubino x319. MLS# G595802. [email protected]. SOUTHINGTON Pristine Condition...Wonderful 2 BR unit w/ newer kitchen. Living room/dining room combo. Small office on top level. Master bath completely remodeled. Large closets. Partially finished lower level and small workshop. Newer rugs plus hot water heater. $119,900. Jeanne Pedroncelli x360. MLS# G594500. [email protected]. TOLLAND Turn Key Condition...Fabulous 9 RM Santini built Colonial w/ 9’ ceilings, hardwood floors, 4 BRs, 2 1⁄2 BAs. Estate like grounds with irrigation system on cul-de-sac. Convenient location. House has 5 zone heating, security system, 2 FPs and finished LL w/ walkout. Must see! $459,900. Linda Kaverud x328. MLS# G595525. [email protected]. BRISTOL Move-In Condition...Great bright and sunny unit with garage. New hot water heater, new carpet. Plenty of storage, low condo fees. Near ESPN and highway. Central air. Slider to patio, new roof. $144,900. Linda Kaverud x328. MLS# G598809. [email protected]. SOUTHINGTON Raised Ranch…Wonderful raised ranch features large deck to look out over your 3.3 acres of land. The 3 car garage is also just another reason to see this 3 BR 2 BA home. Fenced in rear wooded area and barn are great for animal lovers. New furnace and C/Air 2010. $339,000. Ron Appelle x394. MLS# G598623. [email protected]. SOUTH MERIDEN Condo...This beautiful 2 bedroom, 1 1⁄2 bath townhouse with garage and rear deck is just a short walk from the village of South Meriden. $115,000. John Klimczak x372. MLS# G582826. [email protected]. WATERBURY Ranch...Great 3 bedroom ranch. Large rooms, level fenced yard. FP, new windows, roof and carpet. Hardwood floors under carpets. Screened in porch. Huge kitchen with dining, lots of cabinets. $167,900. Linda Kaverud x328. MLS# G599814. [email protected]. PLYMOUTH New Construction...This is a model home. High Colonial with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, attached double garage. Energy Star Qualifier with 35% energy savings. $274,900. Lil Polak x310. MLS# G568791. [email protected] EN 1-3 OP N SU Now w Hiring g Experienced d Agents Quality y Servicee Officee 2010 Southington • (860) 628-8180 • www.c21lill1.com Calll us s Today y for a FREE E Market Evaluation! Lil-1 Associates, Inc. INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED 30 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 Southington Private School Bus Routes Bristol Tech Am 6:50 Am Start Time Location 1 174 Belleview Ave 2 Bristol St & George St 3 Bristol Tech (34) Same In Pm CCA 1 Am 7:35 Am Start Time Location 1 101 School Street 2 22 Zwicks Farm Rd 3 Old Turnpike Rd & Southington Ave 4 67 Darling Street 5 39 Elizabeth Drive 6 Central Christain Academy (150) CCA 1 Pm 2:45 Pm Start Time Location 1 Central Christain Academy (150) 2 Elizabeth Dr & Westwood Dr 3 976 Flanders Rd 4 67 Darling Street 5 Old Turnpike Rd & Southington Ave 6 101 School Street CCA 2 Am 7:40 Am Start Time Location 1 976 Flanders Road 2 215 Lazy Lane 3 65 Churchill St 4 175 Mountain Pond Rd 5 Central Christain Academy (150) CCA 2 Pm 2:45 Pm Start Time Location 1 Central Christain Academy (150) 2 175 Mountain Pond Rd 3 65 Churchill St 4 215 Lazy Lane 5 541 Jude Ln 6 22 Zwicks Farm Road E. C. Goodwin 1 Am Start Time 6:41 Am Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 925 Meriden Ave 3 Berkley Ave & Berlin St 4 Deepwood Dr (Slv) & Pleasant St & Spring Lake Rd 5 Hobart St & Pleasant St 6 Harness Dr & Tanglewood Dr 7 Baron Ct & Queen St 8 E.C Goodwinn (180) E. C. Goodwin 1 Pm 2:10 Pm Start Time Location 1 E.C Goodwinn (180) 2 Laning St & Queen St 3 Flanders Rd & Harness Dr 4 Baron Ct & Queen St 5 Juniper Rd & Meander Ln 6 Hart St & Maplewood Rd 7 Hilltop Dr & Maplewood Rd 8 South Center St & West Center St 9 Greenwood Dr & Meriden Ave 10 Berlin St & Wheeler Vlg 11 Pleasant St & Spring Lake Rd 12 Hobart St & Pleasant St E. C. Goodwin 2 Am 6:39 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Burritt St & Georgetown Condo Dr 3 168 Farmingberry 4 81 Old Mountain Rd 5 2194 MerWtby 6 Marion Ave & Tunxis Path 7 65 Manor Rd 8 920 Mount Vernon Rd 9 Welch Rd & Westover Ln 10 E.C Goodwinn (180) E. C. Goodwin 3 Am Start Time 6:51 Am Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 45 Elm Street 3 Prospect St & Summer St 4 Cornerstone Ct & Main St & Maple St 5 South Center St & West Center St 6 Farmstead Rd & Hilltop Dr 7 Hart St & Ridgewood Rd 8 Juniper Rd & Meander Ln 9 79 Interstate Park Dr 10 Advent Camp Grounds & Queen St & West Queen St 11 E.C Goodwinn (180) E. C. Goodwin 2 Pm 2:15 Pm Start Time Location 1 E.C Goodwinn (180) 2 Interstate Park Dr & Condo’s 3 Advent Camp Grounds & Queen St & West Queen St 4 Welch Rd & Westover Ln 5 920 Mount Vernon Rd 6 Marion Ave & Tunxis Path 7 Frost St & Manor Rd 8 168 Farmingberry 9 81 Old Mountain Rd 10 2194 MerWtby 11 Burritt St & Canal St 12 Grove St & Hillside Av 13 Prospect St & Summer St 14 45 Elm Street St Dominic’s 1 Am 7:10 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 182 Budding Ridge 3 Savage St & Shweky Ln 4 676 Savage Street 5 92 Blue Hills Drive 6 306 Rockwwod Drive 7 635 Meriden Ave & East St 8 Stonegate Rd & Windsor Way 9 Foley Dr & Pepperidge Dr 10 344 Andrews Street 11 912 Woodruff St 12 304 Flanders Road 13 St Dominic School (130) St St Dominic’s 2 Am 7:11 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 707 Prospect Street 3 535 Prospect Street 4 Vernondale Dr & West Center St Ext 5 Valley Forge Ct & Yorktown Rd 6 York Town Rd & Deerbrooke Circle 7 Deerbrooke Cr & Huckleberry Ln 8 Alder Ln & Huckleberry Ln 9 Alder Ln & Dayton Dr 10 1920 Mount Vernon Road 11 Brothers Way & Lady Slipper Ln 12 257 Flanders St 13 Annelise Av & Olson Dr 14 St Dominic School (130) St St Dominic’s 3 Am Start Time 7:23 Am Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Buckland St & Nunzio Dr 3 118 Milldale Avenue 4 164 Summitt Street 5 185 Berlin Avenue 6 284 Woodruff Street 7 46 Flanders Street 8 Fenwood Rd & Flanders St 9 160 Flanders Street 10 Darling St & Summerbrooke 11 February Dr & Pleasant St 12 651 Flanders St 13 Flanders St & Hitching Post Dr 14 320 Harness Drive 15 St Dominic School (130) St Dominic’s 4 Am 7:14 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 235 Shuttle Meadow Rd 3 Sherry Dr & Wedgewood Rd 4 71 Wedgewood Road 5 192 Crest Rd 6 Fairway Rd & Highridge Rd 7 Sheffield Pl & Windermere Ridge Dr 8 Chesterwood Terr & Windermere Ridge Dr 9 Chesterwood Terr & Sheffield Pl 10 St Dominic School (130) St Dominic’s 5 Am 7:14 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 1022 Old Turnpike Road 3 60 Burritt St 4 356 Marion Avenue 5 Marion Ave & Tunxis Path 6 Hart St & Holly Hill Dr 7 Hart St & Russet Ln 8 Hilltop Dr & Maplewood Rd 9 Macintosh Way & Pleasant St 10 Macintosh Way & Pleasant St 11 David Dr & Johanna Cr 12 St Dominic School (130) St Thomas 1 Am 7:01 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 372 Kensington Ave. 3 Berlin St & Butternut Ln 4 Chesterwood Terr & Windermere Ridge Dr 5 230 Pilgrim Ln 9/2/09db 6 Flanders St & Hitching Post Dr 7 240 Flanders Street 8 36 Flanders Stree 9 St Thomas School (140) St Thomas 2 Am 6:49 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 1413 West St 3 Brothers Way & Churchill St 4 Autumn Dr & Jude Ln 5 Deerbrooke Cr & Foxcroft Ct 6 Valley Forge Ct & Yorktown Rd 7 Meeker Rd & Merriman Cr 8 Hitchcock Rd & Walkley Dr 9 1015 Mt. Vernon 10 1138 West Center Street Ext 11 86 Bishop Avenue 12 Mill St & North Summit St 13 St Thomas School (140) St Thomas 3 Am Start Time 7:06 Am Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Shetland Dr & South End Rd 3 Meriden Ave & Scenic Dr 4 1112 Meriden Av 5 Savage St & Weiss Way 6 Rockwood Dr & Savage St 7 Panorama Dr & Rockwood Dr 8 Copper Ridge & Ferncliff Dr 9 Rockwood Ct & Rockwood Dr 10 Rockwood Dr & Undermountain Xing 11 Metacomet View & Valley View Ct 12 Meriden Ave & Strawberry Ln 13 St Thomas School (140) St Thomas 4 Am 6:59 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Clark St & Jennifer Lynn Dr 3 Marion Ave & Tunxis Path 4 590 Marion Avenu 5 Marion Ave & Pacer Ln 6 27 Roseanna Rd 7 315 Defashion St 8 96 Farmingberry Dr 9 Lagana Ave & Mariondale Dr 10 246 Mt. Vernon R 11 Edgewood Cr & Woodridge Ct 12 Kathryn Ln & Prospect St 13 480 Prospect Str 14 St Thomas School (140) St Thomas 5 Am 7:07 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 214 Pratt St 3 Beechwood Dr & Glenn Dr 4 Savage St & Sunset Ridge Dr 5 South Plains Rd & Stuart Dr 6 Buckland St & Nunzio Dr 7 St Thomas School (140) St Thomas 6 Am 6:51 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Laurel St & Rethal St 3 Masters Dr & Pattonwood Dr 4 Brookwood Dr & Laning St 5 Brookwood Dr & Tanglewood Dr 6 Loper St & Pleasant St 7 78 Laning Street 8 Juniper Rd & Little Fawn Rd 9 Hart St & West Ridge Rd 10 Ymca 11 Saint Thomas School (140) Wilcox 1 Am Start Time 6:30 Am Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Dunham St & Laurel St 3 Flanders Rd & Malcein Dr 4 Flanders Rd & Hawthorne Dr 5 Wedgewood Rd & Wild Oak Dr 6 Friar Ln & Woodruff St 7 Mooreland Dr & Orchard Hill Dr 8 Savage St & Woodland Dr 9 209 Merwtby Tpk 10 Wilcox Tech School (190) Wilcox 1 Pm 2:15 Am Start Time Location 1 Wilcox Tech School (190) 2 Andrews St & Orchard Hill Dr 3 Friar Ln & Woodruff St 4 East St & Foley Dr 5 Fox Run & Old State Rd 6 Arlington Dr & Cathy Dr 7 Cathy Dr & Spring Lake Rd 8 Flanders Rd & Wild Oak Dr 9 Flanders Rd & Hawthorne Dr 10 Flanders Rd & Malcein Dr Wilcox 2 Am 6:34 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 691 West Street 3 1616 Mount Vernon Rd 4 Mount Vernon Rd & Winding Ridge Rd 5 Mount Vernon Rd & Pennywise Ln 6 Mount Vernon Rd & Prospect St 7 Mount Vernon Rd & Sandra Ln 8 Frost St & Mount Vernon Rd 9 200 Mount Vernon Rd 10 Clark St & Longo Dr 11 Old Turnpike Rd & Page Farm Rd 12 Dorio Dr & Mulberry St 13 Evan Rd & Meriden Waterbury Rd 14 Wilcox Tech School (190) Wilcox 2 Pm 2:15 Pm Start Time Location 1 Wilcox Tech School (190) 2 740 East Johnson Ave 3 848 S End Rd 4 Mulberry St & South End Rd 5 Carter Ln & Round Hill Rd 6 173 Carter Lane 7 Old Turnpike Rd & Southington Ave 8 Bristol St & Chestnut St 9 879 South Main St (Ashton Woods Apt) 10 Old Turnpike Rd & Page Farm Rd 11 Clark St & Longo Dr 12 169 Atwaterst#B 13 Marion Ave & Tunxis Path 14 Frost St & Robindale Dr 15 Frost St & Mount Vernon Rd 16 Mount Vernon Rd & Sandra Ln 17 Mount Vernon Rd & Prospect St 18 Mount Vernon Rd & Pennywise Ln 19 Mount Vernon Rd & Winding Ridge Rd 20 1616 Mount Vernon Rd Wilcox 3 Am Start Time 6:42 Am Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 169 Atwaterst#B 3 Marion Ave & Tunxis Path 4 Diana Rd & Marion Ave & Wonx Spring Rd 5 Grove St & Main St 6 Bristol St & Brooks St 7 Old Turnpike Rd & Southington Ave 8 173 Carter Lane 9 Carter Ln & Round Hill Rd 10 Meriden Ave & Strawberry Ln 11 Savage St & South End Rd 12 South End Rd & Meriden Waterbury Tpk 13 740 East Johnson Ave 14 Wilcox Tech (190) Wilcox 3 Pm 2:15 Pm Start Time Location 1 Wilcox Tech (190) 2 209 Merwtby Tpk 3 Evan Rd & Meriden Waterbury Tpk 4 Chapel Hill & Savage St 5 1139 Meriden 6 Savage St & Woodland Dr 7 Meriden Ave & Strawberry Ln 8 Berlin St & Celella Dr 9 Berlin St & Pleasant St 10 370 Woodruff St 11 Cedar Dr & Reussner Rd 12 Raynor St & West Center St 13 Morningside Ln & West St 14 691 West Street 15 Dunham St & Butler St Wilcox 4 Am 6:35 Am Start Time Location 1 Nbt Yard 2 Morningside Ln & West St 3 Raynor St & W Center St 4 Cedar Dr & Reussner Rd 5 370 Woodruff St 6 Cathy Dr & Spring Lake Rd 7 Foley Dr & Pepperidge Dr 8 Fox Run & Old State Rd 9 Arlington Dr & Berlin St 10 Berlin St & Butternut Ln 11 Berlin St & Celella Dr 12 1139 Meriden 13 Wilcox Tech (190) Advertise here! You’re reading it. Your customers are too! Call The Observer/Step Saver (860) 628-9645 36 To advertise, call (860) 628-9645 The Step Saver/ The Observer Friday, August 26, 2011 TENTH ANNIVERSARY REMEMBRANCE OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 HONORING THE MEMORY OF THE 2,976 WHO DIED IN THE ATTACKS ON AMERICA How YOU Participate 1. Pick up a 911 Memorial Star at any of 55 participating locations.* 2. Choose the name of a victim of September 11, 2001 whose memory you’ll honor. 3. Do an Act of Kindness. Charity, Prayer, or Good Deed in that person’s memory. 4. Write the name of the victim on your star and your good deed on the other side. 5. Return the STAR by August 31st to any drop off box or participating location.* * 911 Memorial Stars, Drop off Boxes and a list of 2,976 who died on 911 are located at many places of worship and at participating organizations such as: Southington Public Library, Town Hall, Calendar House and Southington Community YMCA. Brought To You By: 213 Spring Street, Southington, CT 06489 • 860-628-9645 www.Southington Observer.com • www.Bristol Observer.com www.StepSaver.com & The Southington Remembers 911 Committee consisting of 55 organizations and businesses.