Southington YMCA kicks-off its annual fundraising campaign, Page 11. By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer

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1 Volume 36, No. 11 Southington s only locally produced paper FREE School officials look at overcrowding issues in the middle schools, Page 3 Kiddie Carnival Southington YMCA kicks-off its annual fundraising campaign, Page 11 TAMMI KNAPIK The Southington High School Key Club hosted its annual Kiddie Carnival at the high school Saturday. The club recently celebrated its fiftieth anniversary. Above, Luke Bell blows bubbles with his dad Jeff. Key Club celebrates 50 years of helping By ED HARRIS EDITOR The Southington High School Key Club recently held a special induction ceremony in celebration of its fiftieth anniversary. The induction ceremony, held to introduce new members into the club, featured guest speakers, including past members and a representative from the Kiwanis Club, the parent organization of the Key Club. The Key Club, founded in 1961, is a service program for high school students. Key Clubs exist in many high schools throughout the country. You can find Key Club alumni everywhere, said Key Club Vice President Dan Arndt. Many Key Club alumni attended the ceremony in the Southington High School auditorium, swapping stories and remem- See KEY CLUB, page 18 Residents of Stonegate Road gave emotional testimony to the Town Council following the area s third sewer backup in four years. Shortly after the heavy rainstorms that blanketed the area on March 5 and 6, several homes reported sewage seeping into their homes. The first incident in the area was in the spring By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer Yale University professor and author Stephen Carter discussed his novels with a large crowd of readers during the 2011 Southington Reads event. The gathering is an annual tradition for the Southington Library, which selects a book each year and encourages the Southington High boy s basketball falls in battle with Holy Cross, Page 24 Stonegate residents upset By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer of Officials inspected the region and removed tree roots and other debris infiltrating the area s sewer pipes, which are over 40 years old and made of clay. Town administrators felt the problem was solved and didn t expect to see a similar incident for decades. Only three years later, it happened again. After a third incident, residents said they were fed up. community at large to read it. Carter has written several fiction and nonfiction books, and his novel New England White was chosen for the event. He was formerly a law clerk to Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and Court of Appeals Judge Spottswood W. Robinson, III. I was delighted when The emotional stress that this has caused all of us is unacceptable, said resident June Senich. We want action, no more promises. She and others went into detail about the anxiety that the neighborhood feels whenever it rains. The residents have come to recognize an ominous gurgling sound coming from See STONEGATE, page 5 Yale author discusses his novel PETER BROCHU Yale University professor and author Stephen Carter discussed his work during Southington Reads. he agreed to come, said Library Director Sue Smayda. He s a rock star among authors and we are thrilled. During his remarks, Carter said libraries had been a major part of his life as a child in Washington, DC. He recalled that he would use part of his weekly 50 cent allowance to buy eightpage notebooks at the general store. My stories would begin and end in that little notebook, Carter said. There were no paragraph breaks, there was no punctuation and I didn t know many verbs. I ve always wanted to tell stories and I m blessed to have made a career out of it. He described the cross-pollination of characters and settings between his novels. As one example, the main characters of New England White were minor characters from The Emperor of Ocean Park, one of his previous novels. He said there See AUTHOR, page Queen Street Southington, CT (860) Federal & Connecticut 1040 Tax return -New clients only with an appointment -Offer only applies to Federal & Connecticut 1040 return, No business filings. -Not valid with any other offers. TIME IS RUNNING OUT March 18 April 1 Of Connecticut $

2 2 To advertise, call (860) Southington Library announces bookmark winners Southington Library has announced its favorite Why I Love My Library bookmarks. The 210 ballots have been counted, and the six most favorite bookmarks belong to Jamie Baden, 6, Books are like Gold, with a rainbow, Ariana Prior, 6, I Love my Library, with a heart and Alison Turner, 8, Marjorie Low who s bookmark says Library, Love-Interesting- Books!-Reading-Always- Relaxes-You! The remaining three belong to adults, Marjorie Low, who drew a maiden carrying a flower bouquet, Timothy Kaplita, who created a Bookworm with glasses reading and Susan Smayda, Library Director, Tim Kaplita who drew with ink The Best Books are at the Library. The library asked the community to cast their ballots for the bookmark that best stated, Why I love my Library. Copies of all entries are available at the lending desk for patrons to use. At the time of voting the artists were unknown to the voters. This program was to promote all the services the Southington Library offers and was funded in part by an Arts and Cultural Grant from Target. The artists of the six favorite bookmarks received a set of colored pencils and washable magic markers. Adrian Prior Alison Turner Jamie Baden Southington The Observer, USPS# , is Published weekly by The Step Saver, Inc., 213 Spring St., Southington, CT Phone: Fax: 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 COULD YOU USE A HELPING HAND? Stressed out... Your health matters too! CALL YOUR CARING NEIGHBORS! WE CAN GIVE YOU THE BRAKE YOU NEED Nothing is Impossible... We understand and appreciate the challenges of caring for your loved ones and your self, while still maintaining a degree of normalcy and dignity. Whether you re missing work, vacation with the kids, or just some personal time to decompress, Infinity can help. Your health matters too. Patient Care Assistance Live-In Companions Nursing Care Physical Therapy Transportation Adult Day Care Respite Care Light Housekeeping Errands, Laundry and Most of all... Piece of Mind All caretakers are thoroughly verified and credentialed. Call The Smart Career Move! Join the growing number of motivated men and women who are taking control of their careers! Massage Therapy Medical Assistant Professional Fitness Trainer Health Claims Specialist Paralegal Computer Network Management *not all programs available at all campuses Day & evening schedules Career placement assistance Financial aid available for those who qualify CALL OR CLICK FOR MORE INFO! Southington 35 N. Main St. branfordhall.edu BRANFORD HALL Career Institute Windsor 995 Day Hill Road Branford One Summit Place

3 South End event...page 4 News Ceiling Surgeon Specializing in: *Spray Textures *Repairs of stains, cracks, holes, etc. *New replacement ceilings *Mold & mildew treatment Over 25 years of ceiling experience Bristol & Surrounding Communities (860) Reg. No Ask For Jim First Lutheran Church 9:30 Service & Sunday School Our Workmanship is 100% Warranteed for 25 years LLC Neighbors...page 10 Sports...page 24 Our Town School officials deal with state funding restrictions By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer As the Board of Education prepares to finalize some details of the renovation proposal for Kennedy and DePaolo Middle Schools, the restrictions associated with state funding are forcing officials to make difficult choices. Their discussion began with an examination of the projected enrollment in the Southington schools for the next ten years. These predictions were made by the New England School Development Council (NES- DEC) in The board is working on the plan for the middle schools with Fletcher Thompson, the same company they partnered with for the renovation at Plantsville Elementary School. The architects will need a projected size in the near future, a figure that is tied in with the expected number of students. There s only so much square feet allowed per student, said Fred Cox, the school system s Director of Blood drive set in memory of local boy The sixth Annual Aidan Stewart Memorial Blood Drive will be held on Friday, March 25, at St. Aloysius Church in Plantsville between 11:45 and 7pm. This drive is sponsored by Kimberly Romajas, a Southington native, in memory of her son Aidan who was taken by cancer at the tender age of two. Aidan s family hopes to raise awareness of the need for blood by hosting this annual event and would like to help ensure that blood is available for Connecticut hospital patients in need. Aidan Stewart The process of blood donation takes only a few minutes, but because the blood can be separated into three separate forms, one donation can save up to three lives. Aidan received many LOCAL ELECTRICIAN FREE ESTIMATES COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL NO JOB TOO SMALL, LIC # E FULLY INSURED transfusions throughout his illness, enabling his life to be extended and lived to its fullest. He enjoyed playing at the park, visiting the zoo, and spending time with his brother, Eric, and sister, Jennifer. His mother now serves the community as a Registered Nurse at Southington Care Center and through her volunteerism for the American Red Cross. Appointments are available to donate blood by calling 800-GIVE-LIFE or online at GIVELIFE.org by using zip code Operations. You take the projected number of students and total the square feet and that s how you build. According to the NES- DEC study, the highest projected middle school population of the next ten years is in the school year, with a total of 1,622 sixth, seventh and eighth graders. However, Superintendent Dr. Joseph Erardi said some of NESDEC s more recent projections had come up a little short. They had predicted 1,570 middle school students for the current school year, when the current number is 1,590. Erardi suspected the upcoming school-year would also have about 10 more students than what NESDEC had predicted. Renovating the school to accommodate more students than projected comes with some risks. If the board s prediction for more students did not come to pass, the district could be penalized and lose some of the state reimbursement. The cost would be in IF IT DOESN T TIC, TOC... TO US! SPECIALIST IN GRAND FATHER AND ANTIQUE CLOCKS Tassé Clock Repair Robert Tassé (860) Bristol Richard Tassé (860) Manchester Pauline Tassé (860) East Hartford proportion to the inaccuracy of the prediction. For example, if the building was designed for a number of students that was 10 percent larger than the NESDEC projection, the reimbursement would be cut by 10 percent if that prediction was not in line with the final enrollment numbers. The town itself would have to make up any difference in that scenario. Southington has typically received about 50 percent reimbursement through this state program. The question we have to deal with is how does a school board remain fiscally responsible when you don t want to risk building too small? Erardi said. Joseph Costa, one of the principals of Fletcher Thompson, said there would be some room for flexibility in the final design. The architects will visit the two schools in the coming weeks and will return to the BOE on March 24 awaiting a decision. Board of Education Chairman Brian Goralski was one of several board members concerned about the idea of going forward with a renovation that may not fully meet the district s needs in the end. We re overcrowded now, Goralski said. We don t want to be overcrowded again. HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING SALES & SERVICE SAVE UP TO $1250 Call for details. Service Plans Available turn to the experts 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed Lic # S , S , SM $ 25 OFF * DUCT CLEANING OR DRYER VENT CLEANING $ 100 OFF * ANY NEW AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM *Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must mention coupon when scheduling appointment. 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4 4 To advertise, call (860) South End holds its own Town Meeting By ROB GLIDDEN Staff Writer Students at South End Elementary School used their Town Meeting event to emphasize the importance of diversity and acceptance. The town meetings are a tradition at the school, though this year s heavy winter has interfered with scheduling. The most recent event was supposed to be held in February, but was postponed to early March. We did this a few times a year in the old school, said Principal Sally Kamerbeek. Now we re able to use this new space and technology. In addition to routine activities like recognizing students for the Principal s Award and perfect attendance, the students participated in numerous presentations highlighting the acceptance of different races and cultures. This year s theme was diversity and respect, which is a really important lesson for kids, said teacher Jill Brilla. Students Christina Sack and Michael Abucewicz hosted the meeting, and introduced each of the presentations. Second-grader Alex Cammuso introduced a poem his class had written about kindness. The month of February was all about kindness in our class, he said. Other presentations included a depiction of the life of baseball player Roberto Clemente, a song about President Abraham Lincoln, a series of drawings shown in time with Louis Armstrong s song What a Wonderful World, poems about the individual talents of students, and a reading of the book The Crayon Box That Talked. Without diversity, we would have no new ideas, said fourth-grader Mia Langston. Everything would be the same. Hung on the back of the stage was a painting of a sunrise on the horizon made entirely out of handprints of students and staff at South End. From a distance, the individual prints are barely visible. The performances seemed to exceed the expectations of even the teachers. I was so impressed by everyone s presentations, said teacher Robin Hirsh. They were amazing. Right, students from South End perform in a skit. Plainville, Southington health district merger moves forward TAMMI KNAPIK By ED HARRIS EDITOR A merger between the Southington and Plainville health districts is almost set to go before each municipality s respective town councils. Plainville has been looking at options for its health department for some time now and recently decided to explore the possibility or regionalization with Southington. The town had looked at other nearby communities before settling on its neighboring community. Health officials from both towns are preparing proposals to present on the subject since late last year. Southington Health Director Chuck Motes said that the proposal was before each town s manager and that the two will meet to go over how and when to bring the proposal before each town s governing bodies. SAVINGS O THE GREEN! ST. 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BUY CT GROWN Sunnymount Salesroom One mi.west of I-84- Rt. 322 Meriden-Wtby Rd., Southington (203) Open Daily 9 A.M. - 6 P.M. SS future. In a past interview on the subject, Lee said that Plainville and Southington s health districts already share an existing and symbiotic relationship. The relationship already includes vaccination plans. Combining the districts could save each town money, however the exact amount is not clear. At a past Southington Town Council meeting, Southington Town Attorney Mark Sciota said he expected the consolidation to save approx. $100,000. However, in a past interview, Motes said the savings must be balanced against fee collection. He targeted the net savings at $50,000 a year. Not all that much would An upscale pizza restaurant with a warm and rustic atmosphere. 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However Councilor Lynn Szach said she thought it was a good idea. It would be nice to have our own full-time staff in town but that would cost extra money, Szach said. The council decided there would need to be a public hearing before the merge moved forward. Reporter Kaitlyn Naples contributed to this article. Comments? eharris@southingtonobser ver.com. Send us your milestones We welcome milestone announcements from all of our readers. Forms for weddings, engagements, anniversaries and birth announcements are available at Send your milestones to Editor Ed Harris at eharris@southingtonobserver.com, or mail them to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday for the following week s edition. The editor reserves the right to edit all milestones for length or grammatical errors. What s In YOUR Easter Basket? OURS is Seafood! 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5 To advertise, call (860) Police Blotter Werner G. Bayer, 41, of 456 Atwater Street, was charged on March 6 with second degree threatening, second degree harassment and disorderly conduct. He was held on a $5,000 bond for a March 14 court date. Joseph R. Damboise, 18, of 89 Hitching Post Drive, was charged on March 1 with operating a motor vehicle with tinted windows, no DMV sticker, possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana with intent to sell. He was held on a $5,000 bond for a March 14 court date. Kevin E. Turgeon, 21, of 670 Old Turnpike Road, was charged on March 4 with DUI, traveling too fast and failure to carry a license. He was held on a $500 bond for a March 14 court date. James A. Gibson, 26, of 21 Evan Road, was charged on March 4 with operating a motor vehicle under suspension. He was held on a $1,000 bond for a March 14 court date. Donald J. Savage, 56, of 44 Rourke Avenue, was charged on March 4 with disorderly conduct. He was held on a $500 bond for a March 7 court date. Julie A Davies, 26, of 53 Hiltbrand Road, Bristol, was charged on March 5 with DUI and articles obstructing view. She was held on a $500 bond for a March 14 court date. David A. Forgione, 24, of 91 Lawncrest Drive, was charged on March 5 with first degree failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond for a March 14 court date. Amanda Jacobs, 23, of 216 Spicewood Lane, Berlin, was charged on March 5 with three counts of second degree failure to appear and a probation violation. She was held on bonds totaling $100,000 for a March 7 court date. Two arrested in junk yard burglary Southington Police have arrested two Waterbury men in connection to a junkyard break in. Police allege that on Tuesday, March 8, George Dolloff, 21, of 43 Earl Street, Waterbury and Angel Pantoja, 22, of 45 Longhill Road, Waterbury entered and stole various auto parts from Chuck and Eddies Junkyard. Author: Yale professor speaks during Southington Reads From page 1 would even be connections to his other work in his next novel, which is a speculative story about what might have happened if Abraham Lincoln had not been assassinated. The questions and answers from the audience frequently focused on characters, and Carter said this was his highest priority for his fiction work. He commented that long novels without character depth left him unsatisfied. My view of a successful novel is when you finish it, you feel like you had a good time, he said. The author made many comments about the importance of libraries and books, describing the theme of Ray Bradbury s BRACKEN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE dystopian novel Fahrenheit 451. Referring to it as one of the great novels, he said the message had often been misunderstood. Most interpret Bradbury s story, in which firemen burn books instead of putting out fires, as a warning against government censorship. Carter said that a close reading of the novel revealed that it was the public who wanted books to be burned, and so the novel was less about censorship and more about anti-intellectualism and ignorance. His complaint was that we don t want to be challenged, Carter said. A book can change the way we see the world, and we want to read things that make us feel right. Great books are the antidote to that. Residential Commercial Grounds Keeping Landscaping Tree Removal Home Maintenance General Construction Roof Repairs Ice/Water Damage Repairs Contact Us Today! RICHARD C. BRACKEN Owner/Operator Over 20 years experience LICENSED & FULLY INSURED Both men were charged with third degree criminal trespass and sixth degree larceny. They were both held on a $5,000 bond for a March 21 court date. Paul David White, 27, of 315 South Main Street, Newtown, was charged on March 5 with second degree failure to appear. He was held on a $25,000 bond for a March 7 court date. Peter J. Ostrowski, 51, of 15 Bronson Road, Avon, was charged on March 6 with second degree breach of peace, third degree assault and second degree strangulation. He was held on a $5,000 bond for a March 7 court date. Dave Davidson, 22, of 50 South Center Street, was charged on March 6 with disorderly conduct and third degree criminal mischief. He was held on a $500 bond for a March 7 court date. William Chan Jr., 32, of 70 Jeremy Woods Drive, was charged on March 6 with violation of a restraining order. He was held on a $20,000 bond for a March 7 court date. Jay N. Janazzo, 25, of 29 Anne Road, was charged on March 7 with second degree breach of peace He was held on a $10,000 bond for a March 7 court date. Osita L. Obuekwe, 44, of 53 Old Mountain Road, was charged on March 3 with disorderly conduct. He was held on a $500 bond SUNDAY March 20 th 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 5 for a March 4 court date. Ona N. Obinani, 35, of 53 Old Mountain Road, was charged on March 3 with disorderly conduct. He was held on a $500 bond for a March 4 court date. Sarah M Esty, 24, of 35 Court Street, Cromwell, was charged on March 4 with disorderly conduct. She was held on a $500 bond for a March 4 court date. Richard E. Dulac, 19, of 104 Old Mill Road, was charged on March 4 with failure to have a numbered plate and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was held on a $500 bond for a March 14 court date. School bus fills with smoke, no injuries reported Students were evacuated from a school bus on Thursday, March 10, after it began filling with smoke. At approx. 3 p.m. the police and fire departments responded to the intersection of Andrews Street at Kensington Road after receiving a report from the driver that smoke was filling the interior of the bus. The driver safely evacuated the 18 DePaolo Middle school students without incident. A second bus was sent to that location and brought the students to their regular stops. The bus did not catch fire and the cause of the smoke is under investigation. Stonegate: Residents upset with sewage back up in the area From page 1 drains that foreshadows sewer problems. The homeowners are afraid to use their showers or sinks after a rainstorm, and one anecdote was shared about a man who opted to use the bathroom at a nearby McDonalds rather than flush his own toilet. Residents live in fear of rainstorms and others have moved away, said Board of Finance member John Moise, who lives on Stonegate Road. Please correct this problem and stop just throwing darts at the wall. Since the 2010 incident, Public Works Director Anthony Tranquillo has attributed much of the blame to illegally connected sump pumps. He claimed that an investigation of the area around Stonegate Road last year revealed fifty of these pumps. A sewer ordinance was recently passed to help start an ongoing effort to investigate this matter further. However, the residents who spoke expressed skepticism of this explanation. Many wondered aloud why only their neighborhood was affected when there were likely sump pumps all over Southington. Most of these sewage problems began with the removal of the pump station behind Stonegate Road, said resident Tony Casale, one of several speakers who made this OIL COMPANY, LLC Low Prices, Dependable Service Owner Operated since suggestion. The council voted to move forward the Stonegate Sewer Shed (SSES) project, which will conduct a swift examination of the area. Though it was stated repeatedly that this project was only one part of a larger effort, many residents and some councilors advocated for more extensive work on the problem. People want answers now and to hear about more studies and more consultants is just frustrating, said Town Councilor John Barry. Several speakers suggested the town bring in another engineer to offer a new perspective on the problem, and Town Manager Garry Brumback seemed receptive to this idea. If you want me to go out and hire an engineer to look closely at this problem and help made sure it will never happen again, that s an expensive proposition but I would be happy to do it, he said. In the end, the officials opted to let Brumback and other administrators gather more data and report back to the council at the next meeting. All of us feel horrible about what happened down there, said Council Chairman Edward Pocock, III. We re going to move on this as soon as we possibly can. Good Guy Electric, LLC Residential - Commercial - Industrial E EST QUALITY WORK AT LOW PRICES Free Estimates - Fully Insured Years Experience NO JOB TOO SMALL Voted Best Oil Company In Bristol 2 Years Row! 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6 6 To advertise, call (860) Commentary ED HARRIS editor Established in 1975 Published weekly by The Step Saver, Inc. 213 Spring St., Southington, CT editorial: advertising: circulation: fax 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. Grants help education A special section at the Southington Library designed for very young readers is just the most recent evidence of the impact that the Southington Education Foundation (SEF) is having on the town. This special section of the Southington Library is the end result of a partnership with three teachers. Kelley literacy specialist Jill Chapman worked with Hatton teachers Nicole Harves and Maureen Barmore for the Reading Made Easy program, a partnership with the library that intends to promote books designed for children just beginning to read. The idea was proposed last year and was awarded a $500 grant from the Southington Education Foundation in June. The SEF has handed out numerous $500 grants in their brief two year existence. The American Legion Auxiliary also donated to the library, allowing more books to be purchased. Nearly 300 books are now part of the new collection. The reading made easy shelves are located in the children s section, and are organized by reading levels. Parents unsure of a child s current reading level are advised to contact their teacher. Library Director Sue Smayda, a member of the SEF, noted a few months ago that the section was popular. Half of the collection was already checked out when the ribbon was cut in January, she said. Other notable projects funded from the grants include a nature classroom at Flanders School that incorporates fish and small reptiles and a teaching garden at Thalberg School that spruced up the exterior of the school. There is also a district-wide project in the very early stages of planning a science center at the YMCA Camp Sloper. Grant applicants may be able to dream a little bigger with the next round of grants, expected to be announced later this spring, if the SEF stays true to past precedence. The foundation is now collecting ideas for the next round of grants. This time the group will accept proposals with a price tag of up to $1,000, double the amount of past years. The foundation s second annual fundraising gala at the Aqua Turf in January brought in approximately $30,000, thanks to a large community turnout. A major part of the gala, and a great fundraising tool, is the unique auctions, which give bidders a chance to get involved with the schools in various ways. Numerous administrators, including Superintendent Dr. Joseph Erardi, Assistant Superintendent Howard Thiery, and the school principals offer a chance to shadow them for a day. Southington High School football coach D.J. Hernandez and Elementary gym teacher Eric Korp also auctioned off a chance to take over their jobs for a day. The Southington Education Foundation has grown by leaps and bounds in its relatively short existence. Educators in Southington brainstorm great ideas to help teach students in ways that would not traditionally be a part of school budget. But, thanks to the grants from the SEF and those that donated to make those grants happen, the dreams have started to become a reality. We look forward to see what type of projects inspire the next round of grants. Our Views Milestones...page 9 Neighbors...page 11 Good Times...page 15 Stonegate Road needs addressing Town officials need to address the sewer situation on Stonegate Road before there is another catastrophic back up. Residents on Stonegate Road experienced another smaller sewer back up with the recent rains and melting snow last week. This is the third back up in almost four years, even though town officials say they are doing all that they can do ensure that it does not happen again. Sewer issues on Stonegate Road reach back to at least 2007, when a major back up caused residents misery and sewage to flow into homes in the area. The sewers, which are the originals from the 1960s, backed up again last year, though this incident was less severe than the 2007 incident. The most recent back up was the least severe out of the three and included sewage entering into two people s basements and in one instance seeping into an old unused shower. There was also some reported minor back ups, including problems with sinks. But let s be honest here. We are talking about sewage back ups. The word severe is just used to describe how bad of a back up there was. Any back up, no matter the size or scope, is severe for the homeowner. And it is something they should not have to deal with. After the 2007 incident, town officials investigated the area and cleared Ed Harris Thoughts around town up brush and fallen tree limbs that were blocking the sewer line. It was hoped that this would be enough. But, the second backup made it clear there is more to the problem. It was announced at a Town Council meeting last month that the Stonegate Road area will be the subject of a new Sewer System Evaluation Study (SSES). An outside agency will conduct the study and it will be paid for by an existing line item in the sewer budget. This SSES is a great step forward and fingers are crossed that it will help determine some of the issues surrounding now seemingly routine back ups along Stonegate Road. It is reasonable to note that the study was just recently approved in February of 11, while the last major back up was in April 10. Town Council Vice-Chairman John Dobbins, who also serves as the chair for the Sewer Committee, said that the Council has been addressing the issue in the last year and that the SSES is another step in the process. Soon after the 2010 back up, officials once again cleared the sewers of debris and utilized cameras to take a look around, which brought attention to two breaks upstream. Other factors looked at included inflow and infiltration and illegally installed sump pumps. The SSES will likely be more in depth, but look at some of these same issues. Addressing illegally connected sump pumps is causing a bit of a headache all on its own for town officials, as the issue involved private property and the town cannot legally force a homeowner to allow them to investigate the sewer connection. However, the town can add a surcharge on the sewer bill. Officials are also looking to educate the public on the issues with illegally connected sump pumps through flyers that were sent along with this year s sewer bills. It is not really known how much of an issue the sump pumps actually are and Dobbins noted that they may not be the fix. Whatever the fix may be, town officials need to find it soon. Stonegate Road residents should not be living in fear every time substantial rain (or melting) is forecast. That wasn t me swearing-i swear it The other day I received an from a friend. At the end of the note she added, By the way, did you know that was me you were swearing at in the Talcott Plaza parking lot at lunch yesterday? Immediately my face turned red as I read the . I thought to myself, Oh no, I can t believe I flipped off and swore at some other motorist in a parking lot, and it turns out I know that person! Ugh, what a jerk I am. Then I began to formulate a heartfelt apology, such as, I ran out of gas. I had a flat tire. I didn t have enough money for cab fare. My tux didn t come back from the cleaners. An old friend came in from out of town. Someone stole my car. There was an earthquake. A terrible flood. Locusts. It wasn t my fault, I swear to God. The classic John Belushi Blues Brothers apology is about as heartfelt as they come. As I was thinking of how I might handle this embarrassing situation, it dawned on me that I was nowhere near the Talcott Plaza on that particular day. And come to think of it, I didn t remember being mouthy or flippy with any motorists in quite a while. However, to be honest, if I were under oath and a prosecuting attorney asked me, Have you, at any time in your entire life, Mr. Dunn, ever flipped off someone? I would Bill Dunn Laugh or Death have to take a deep breath, and with a profound sense of shame, answer by flipping off the creepy lawyer with both hands and saying, Does this answer your question? I replied to the , That couldn t have been me. I was in East Hartford all day. She sent back a note, Well, it was a guy in a blue minivan, and he looked exaactly like you. OK, that proves it wasn t me. Even if I ve developed a case of angry outburst amnesia, I don t drive a minivan. But I still have a problem: someone who apparently looks just like me is lurking around the area and swearing at people and I m getting blamed for it. What else is this guy doing? I hope he doesn t rob banks. Or at least I hope he wears a ski mask, as is required by the Unauthorized Withdrawal Professionals Union, local 24. Even if it looks like me on the surveillance camera, if he s holding the gun in his right hand, it s not me because I m a lefty. (Oh crud, I shouldn t have mentioned that. What if he s reading this column?) This is not a good situation. Being falsely accused of a crime really stinks. I can just see it now. Cops knock at my front door and say, We need to take you in for questioning, sir. I frantically exclaim, What did I do?! The cops say, Three different women identified your photo. They claim you grabbed their rear ends and then tossed Milk Duds down their shirts. That couldn t have been me! I plead. I hate Milk Duds! As they drag me away in handcuffs, I cry out in tears, But it wasn t me! I swear! I m a Raisinets man! Well, this could get pretty dicey. I m going to have to make sure I have an alibi for my whereabouts at all times. And if you run into someone who looks like me, and he swears at you, trust me, it wasn t me. I would never swear at someone. I swear. Bill Dunn is a freelance writer who resides in Torrington. He can be reached via his Web site at:

7 To advertise, call (860) Southington says Your Views 7 What are your St Patrick s Day plans or traditions? "I will be cooking some food for my son's international luncheon at his school. I'm not cooking Irish food, but I will wear green." "I went to the St. Patty's day parade in Hartford last Saturday." "I don't usually do anything special, but I will wear green." When my grandmother was here with us we used to have the traditional corn beef and cabbage dinner, but not so much anymore. We did have it for dinner last week." "We have corn beef and cabbage" Photos by Tammi Knapik Suzanne Whitehead Southington Connor Whitehead Southington SUBMITTED 8,000 paper chains drape St. Paul s Episcopal Church to represent the 8,000 children under the age of 5 that die every day due to hunger. Youth group s 30 Hour Famine The youth groups of St. Paul s Episcopal Church participated in World Vision s 30 Hour Famine. The 24 youth, ranging in age from 11-17, had lunch at school on Friday, March 4 as their last meal, then went without solid food until a soup and bread dinner on the evening of Saturday, March 5. The young people raised over $2,300 to fight hunger, and they collected canned food and $500 to support Bread for Life. On Saturday, they made sandwiches and packed 60 bagged lunches, which they delivered to the homeless in Bushnell Park in Hartford. They also supplied 60 pairs of warm socks, and 60 gift bags of shampoo, conditioner, lotion and washcloths. During the famine, the young people also learned facts about worldwide hunger, for instance, every day 8,000 children under the age of 5 die of hunger and hunger-related diseases. To represent this fact, the youth made paper chains comprised of 8,000 links and hung them up in the church. On Sunday, which was designated as Famine Sunday, the youth led the service, and the paper chains served as a stark reminder of the magnitude of the plight of the hungry. The Adult Christian Formation hour was also led by the director of the youth program, and featured Eldon Hafford, Executive Director of Bread for Life, as guest speaker. The youth leaders and young people of St. Paul s have participated in the annual 30 Hour Famine for more than five years. The St. Paul s youth groups delivered food and toiletries to the homeless in Bushnell Park in Hartford. To the Editor, Kristen Butler Southington As a senior in high school this year, I looked back and remembered all of the fun things that I did when I was younger. As I was thinking, YMCA Camp Sloper came to my mind. I remember attending the two week sessions each year there. My brother and I attended the Horseback Camp. It was a lot of fun! For part of the day, we were bused to a horse farm where the horses were kept. We learned to feed, groom and put the horse tackle on the horses, and how to ride them. The instructors were wonderful and very patient. We had learned so much about the horses. The other part of the day we were bused back to YMCA Camp Sloper, where we played games, swam, and looked Jennifer Rolfe Southington Letters for pieces of crystal in the crystal mine. My brother and I also attended the Sports Camp. We played soccer for many years on the recreation teams, so this camp was great also. It gave us a chance to experience what the other sports like baseball and basketball were all about. I remembered playing against my friends that were also at YMCA Camp Sloper, which made it even a more challenging event. I also had the chance to experience two other camp programs, which were the Dance Camp and the Gymnastics Camp at YMCA Camp Sloper. These two camps were my favorite. We were bused to the YMCA Gymnastics Center and to a dance studio where I met a lot of children who were very talented. Bill Rees Southington Having fun at Camp Sloper It wasn t until then that I learned I had a passion for dance and gymnastics. Soon after that I continued on with gymnastics lessons at the YMCA, which helped me become a cheerleader at DePaolo Middle School in sixth grade. Today, I m a senior at Southington High School and a Varsity Cheerleader. I ve been cheerleading ever since the sixth grade. I thank YMCA Camp Sloper and my parents for giving me the opportunity to experience what every child should. YMCA Camp Sloper is a place to grow, interact with other children, laugh, run, meet new friends, but most of all too just have a great time! Jennifer Bourgoin SHS Senior and Sloper Alum Sampson: Hearing on group homes A Rep. Rob Sampson proposal that would require public hearings on the location of group homes was subject of a Planning and Development Committee hearing recently. Sampson was at the state s legislative office building and testified on the bill, H.B. 5142, An Act Requiring Public Hearings on the Location of Group Homes. State law, backed by federal law, prohibits local zoning regulations from treating group homes differently from other single family residences providing they meet certain criteria. Sampson, though, said the fact that his bill was before a committee hearing with many people in Hartford to testify shows the issue of group home placement is not settled. Residents say they often learn about proposed group homes by word-of-mouth rather than a formal announcement, leaving them wondering about who is protecting their rights as homeowners. Local leaders and residents have legitimate reasons for wanting more information about a group home before it s sited in a community, Sampson said, such as the safety of children and accompanying unfunded mandates that affect local property taxes. There s no harm in disclosure and transparency, and an open process that encourages participation from all parties involved benefits both the community and group homes equally, Sampson said. Committee members will now consider the testimony taken. Send us your letters! We welcome letters to the editor from all of our readers. Send your letter to editor Ed Harris at eharris@southingtonobserver.com, or mail them to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 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.

8 8 To advertise, call (860) Homeowner s insurance does not cover flooding Southington is wet. Very wet. However, this should come as no surprise. The town is part of the Quinnipiac River s drainage basin and is crossed by small rivers and streams. The area first attracted settlers because of opportunities for hunting and fishing. Later, light industry took advantage of these same abundant waterways. The unfortunate downside to Southington s ideal location is also no surprise to most residents. Southington is prone to flooding. This past week was especially significant for the overflow of ponds, rivers and streams that caused significant damage to many homes. Serving the community for over 30 Years ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS DOORS GUTTERS DOWNSPOUTS Our windows are eligible for a Tax Credit of up to $1,500 FREE UPGRADE ON SOLARBAN 70 GLASS and so much more! Roofing Repairs Flat Roofing Roof Cleaning/ Mold & Mildew Windows & Doors Tony Sheffy Off The Record Following flood damage, it seems a matter of common sense to make a claim under your Home Owner s Policy of insurance. However, most of these policies contain what is known as a Ground Water exclusion. In other words, the insurance policy states that the company Poster contest winners SUBMITTED Carolyn Del Debbio, grade 4 Plantsville Elementary School, and Brandon Kohl, grade 5 Derynoski Elementary School, were recognized at the February Board of Education Meeting for winning the Southington District Level and County Level Fire Prevention Poster Contest. They will be recognized for their hard work on March 31 at the CT Fire Prevention Poster Contest Luncheon in Cromwell. Their posters have a chance to become the state winner for the 2011 Fire Prevention Poster Competition. Call the Pro Bobby O at FULLY INSURED REFERENCES REG # info@odonnellbros.com does not cover a loss to the homeowner s property caused by surface water flooding, or the overflow of any body of water. As if necessary to further tack down the fact that your policy will not cover flooding, the exclusion will often state that there is no coverage for damage caused by water on the surface of the ground regardless of its source. If this homeowner s exclusion for damage caused by flooding comes as a shock, don t feel alone. It is reported that of the 1.7 million households in Connecticut, only 35,000 or 2 percent of Connecticut s households have insurance that specifically covers damage caused by flooding. Replace that old HVAC system in your home today and get up to $1,000 in rebates and incentives * Billy *Certain restrictions apply Same Day Service AC/Boiler/Furnace Replacement In Stock 30 Years Experience Oil & Gas Systems Central A/C Personal Service Free Estimates 24 Hour Emergency Service Financing Available Installation The way to protect your home is through the purchase of flood insurance. Flood insurance is a special insurance policy that is federally backed. The standard flood insurance policy will cover structural damage to your home. The policy may include coverage for damage to the furnace, water heater, air conditioner, floor surface (carpeting and tile) and may even pay for debris clean up. For an additional premium, you can protect the contents of your home such as a washer, dryer, or freezer. While it might seem that this special insurance must be expensive, it is not. According to the Federal Emergency Management VOTED BEST HVAC FIRST PLACE 217 Berlin Ave., Southington Lic #S Agency (FEMA), the average homeowner s flood insurance premium is approximately $500 per year. However, according to FEMA it is important to know that premiums for flood insurance will vary depending on risk level for a flood loss, the amount of coverage chosen, the type of coverage needed, and the preferred deductible. You should know that flood insurance can be purchased regardless of whether the property is in a floodplain. However, it is important to plan ahead in purchasing flood insurance because a flood insurance policy will normally not go into effect until 30 days after its purchase. The availability of water is part of Southington s history and its ideal location in the state. The downside is that the town will likely always be prone to flooding. To protect your home you will need more than a standard homeowner s insurance policy. Accordingly, plan ahead for the next deluge and consider purchasing flood insurance protection. Tony Sheffy is a personal injury and insurance attorney in Southington. His office is located at 166 N. Main Street. This column is not meant as legal advice. If you have questions regarding this column, please feel free to contact Tony at tsheffy@smddlaw.com. Kristen s Kloset is now open for business Kristen s Kloset, the Prom Program sponsored by Southington Youth Services is now open. Kristen s Kloset is open to any student who is looking to attend their prom and not spend a lot of money. The shop contains an inventory of over 500 gently used and new gowns along with shoes, jewelry and other accessories, all of which have been donated by individuals and businesses from the area. It also has coupons from local formal shops, florists, and hair and nail boutiques so students can save on these things too. This year, the shop is located at 2211 Meriden Waterbury Road, Southington. Kristen s Kloset is in its fifth year of operation and is named to honor the memory of Kristen Warner, a middle school student who died tragically in a car accident in Her family and friends founded the program to serve students who may be dealing with financial or other issues that would prevent them from attending their prom. However, all students shopping for prom attire are welcome. The shop will be open throughout prom season on Tuesdays 2-6 p.m., Thursdays 2-5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call Youth Services at or check them out on Facebook. Church to hold yoga to help child charity First Congregational Church is practicing Sanctuary Yoga (therapeutic chair yoga) on Friday evenings. Crystal Sullivan PT, RYT will instruct the class in the gentlest form of Yoga. Students will learn many kinds of yoga postures, breathing techniques, meditation and ways of relaxation. Suggested donation $5 and every penny goes to Every Dollar Feeds Kids feeding hungry children in Ecuador, Hartford and Mexico. Participants should seek medical clearance Calendar House Notes The following events will take place at the Calendar House: Computer Club at the Calendar House meets Wednesday, March 23, 1pm. Summer 2011 Computer Session starts April 12, more information to follow. Register for classes April 11 at Calendar House (late registration April 18). Computer Lab is open: Monday 9:00am -11:00am, Wednesday and Thursday 1:00pm 3:00pm For more information regarding the Computer Learning Calendar House please CLC@calendarhouse.org. Sign up for the men s golf league in the office at Calendar House. Please have the name & phone number of your golfing partner, dues are $50. Great Trains & Grand prior to participating. (In the event of inclement weather, class is cancelled if school is either delayed or postponed. For more information contact Crystal Sullivan Canyons Oct , 2011 includes round trip airfare, 2 rail journeys, 5 nights in Sedona, Arizona and a great deal more.

9 To advertise, call (860) Kennedy announces Students of the Month for February John F. Kennedy Middle School recently announced the names of its February students of the Month. The sixth grade Students of the Month are William Carbone, Morgan Maccione, Leanne Raymond, and Joseph Vitali. Will, the son of David and Marlene Carbone, has a positive attitude that affects his entire team. Kind, helpful, and friendly, he is an excellent student who works hard and takes his assignments seriously. He is an honor roll student and a Ping Pong Club member. Will plays town football and baseball and enjoys bike riding and playing in the woods. The daughter of Jason and Kelley Maccione, Morgan is the sixth grade Unified Arts student of the month. She is a kind and respectful student who works well cooperatively with her fellow students and is conscientious about her assignments. She is an honor roll student and a member of GEMS, the orchestra, the Success Café, and the yearbook. Morgan volunteers for canned food and toy drives, and she is on the student team of role models for young students at her karate club where she also provides guidance. She includes skiing among her other interests. Leanne, the daughter of Daniel and Margo Raymond, is a mature and extremely-rounded student who exhibits the qualities of a good citizen who is very involved in her community. She is a member of the honor roll, the Ski/Snowboard Club, the chorus, the swing choir, and the town s softball league. Leanne volunteers at Mulberry Gardens, raises funds for various charities, works towards her Girl Scout Bronze Award, and serves on the S.T.E.P.S. Youth Council. Other interests include karate, tennis, and her involvement in the Meriden Youth Theater and the Southington Community Theater. Joseph is the son of Robert and Bernadette Vitali. His performance is consistent in all areas. He is a deep thinker and puts forth his best effort in all that he does. Joe is dependable and can be relied on to work well whether alone or in a group setting. An honor roll student, he plays town football and volunteers for the March of Dimes and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation s walk-a-thons and bake sales. Joe enjoys the YMCA, skiing, bowling, reading, traveling, and cooking. The seventh grade sstudents of the Month are Alexa Bracken, Nicole Breedlove, and Niels Peschel. Alexa, the daughter of William and Germania Bracken, is the grade seven World Language student of the month. She has worked hard to master not only the courses material but also to aid her fellow students to be academically successful. She has created Power Point presentations on her own in order to spark interest in her peers. An honor roll student, she has demonstrated a strong ability for language and compassion in working with students who are struggling. The daughter of Glenn and Janet Breedlove, Nicole is a creative and independent student who demonstrates much school spirit. Conscientious, attentive, and mature, she is always available to help others. Nicole is a member of the Builders Club, the honor roll, the soccer team, and Our Scholars the band. She plays Southington travel soccer and his active at the YMCA and in her church s youth ministry group. In her free time Nicole babysits for family members. Niels, the son of Thomas Peschel and Kari Peschel-Luise, is a newcomer to Kennedy Middle School where he is an outstanding student. Curious and conscientious, he has a wealth of background knowledge on many topics. His active participation contributes to class dynamics as he demonstrates quality independent work and leadership skills when working with others. Niels is an honor roll student and a member of the National Junior Honor Society, the school newspaper, and the Boy Scouts. Outside interests include playing the piano, camping, swimming, listening to music, and reading, especially history books. The eighth grade Students of the Month are Caroline Charlton, Ryan Padden, and Zachary Verdi. The daughter of Maria Charlton, Caroline is the eighth grade Unified Arts student of the month. A great worker and a well-mannered young lady, she set her grade s record for bridges ninetyeight pounds. Caroline is an honor roll student and a band member. Ryan is the son of Bruce and Linda Padden. An outstanding student who is highly respected by all, he has a great personality and gets along well with others. Ryan is a member of the Drama Club, the Environmental Club, the honor roll, the National Junior Honor Society, the cross country team, the orchestra, Select Strings, and MATHCOUNTS where he recently served as a team Kennedy has announced its Students of the Month for February. They are, front row, Caroline Charlton, Morgan Maccione, Leanne Raymond, Nicole Breedlove, William Carbone and Joseph Vitali. Back row: Mrs. Pam Aldi, Ryan Padden, Zachary Verdi, Alexa Bracken, Niels Peschel and Mr. Angelo Campagnano. member at the group s Hartford county competition. Ryan plays town soccer and volunteers for a community service with the Southington Community Theater. Among his outside interests are reading, golf, hanging out with friends, writing, music, video games, drawing, and his violin. Zachary, the son of Todd and Heather Verdi, is an outgoing, personable young man who gets along well with adults and peers. Polite and well-mannered, he is an excellent student whose name is on the honor roll. He plays town football and baseball and volunteers at a senior center in New Britain. Zach s outside interests include sports, reading, and getting together with his friends. Kennedy students compete in science fair Kennedy Middle School recently held its 2011 science fair. The awards given were as follows: Sixth grade individual: first place- A Need for Speed Daniel Spatafore. Second place- A Need for Speed Alessandro Milardo Sixth grade team: First place- Acid Reflux, Kimberly Stafko and Alexa Maddalena. Second place- The Glue Showdown, Veronica Heigel and Natalie Messner. Third place- Is There a Reason Your Cookies are Burnt?, Olivia Danielson and Lindsey Murphy. Seventh grade, individual: First place- Green Smasher vs. 3 Soccer Balls, Jonathan Doty. Second place- Barging in on Bacteria, Jason Soltys. Third place- The effect of Candle Temperatures on Burn Rate, Amelia Sponauer. Seventh grade, team: First place- Do You Have a Mnemonic Memory?, Rebecca Caisse and Angelina Zollo. Second place- Natural Wind vs. Fan, Andrew Ackerman and Kyle McLaughlin. Third place- Our Facial Expressions Project, Hailee Aldi and Delana Veilleux. Seventh grade, honorable mention: The Unbreakable Egg, Christopher Minkiewicz, Practice Makes Perfect, Krysta Tsangarides and Katie Lindberg, A Salty Experiment, Laura Koba and Emily Maciejewski, Exactly Temperature Which Natalie Rickard and Brenna Sarantides and Do You Know what you are Touching? Alexandra Bieniek, Marissa Langer. Eighth grade, individual: First place, The Eggsperiment, John Pac. Second place, The Beat of Music, Marissa Sisco. Eighth grade, team: First place- Crash Test, Timothy Carrier and Michael Fazzino. Second place- The Silver Saucers, Margaret Mellitt and Katherine Mellitt. Third place- To Twirl or not to Twirl, Kristen Loose and Meghan Kelley. Eighth grade, honorable mentions: Frozen Footballs Zachary Verdi and Matthew Thomson and Chocolate Catastrophe Ryan Padden and Julie Falk. Point & Click Read it all on the Web. HAPPY BIRTHDAY in 2 Lucky Birthday Winners Each Week CONGRATULATIONS: BIRTHDAY CAKE WINNER! Evan Schmarr March 19, age 8 Ryan McLin March 24, age 13 $25 Gift Certificate courtesy of Miracle Creative Hair Design Believe in Miracles 26 Bristol St., Southington, CT (860) Michael Dorsey March 21, age 11 HAIR SALON WINNER! Marina Janazzo March 24, age 29 Bess Bezio March 22 Cake (Value up to $10) courtesy of 213 Spring St., Southington, CT (860) To enter, call, , fax or mail name, age and birth date of your special person from Southington to: Southington Observer 213 Spring St., Southington, CT Phone: (860) Fax: (860) nthompson@stepsaver.com 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. 9

10 10 To advertise, call (860) Our Healthy Lifestyles A new perspective on fitness with yoga In January 2010, I tried my hand at an at home fitness program and I got stumped every single time yoga appeared on the queue. I could not figure out why yoga was a part of a strength-building exercise regimen, or how I was expected to get anything out of the segment without any experience with the positions or terminology. I felt like I spent more time watching the video than exercising. I felt I needed to put some effort into it, so I attended an actual yoga class. I spent the hour sweating and gasping for air. I wasn t flexible enough, and I was barely strong enough I made it through the class on fumes and pride. Flash forward to September I hadn t been to yoga since January, Most of us remember the basics when it comes to treating sports injuries which include ICE: ice, compression and elevation. But as a chiropractor, I believe that two more letters should be added to the acronym. Protection and Rest are critical as well in order to make a complete recovery. Protection in the PRICE part of treating sport injuries involves prevention of further injury. It may mean a brace, support, belt or any other assistive device necessary to protect and aid the body during normal activities after the injury. Jay Jaronko Southington YMCA and I was perfectly content to never go again when I tweaked something in my back while lifting. I couldn t lift my right arm over my head, and I was, generally, in tremendous pain. This had happened before, and I was confident the pain would soon go away, but I was getting very frustrated Dr. Carol Grant Alternatively Speaking The student still has to go to school, the adult still has to go to work and avoid exacerbation of the injury will that I kept injuring myself while I was trying to get healthier. At the recommendation of a friend I tried my hand at yoga again. This time I tried a Vinyasa FLow Yoga Class in the Spirit, Mind and Body room at the YMCA Women s Center. It was an ordeal to get through that first hour, this time due to the pain in my back. But, I made it. I felt terrible that night, truly terrible. I couldn t fall asleep. I couldn t get comfortable. Then a crazy thing happened. I woke up and my back wasn t screaming at me. It was still tight, but it was bearable. Now, I m not one to just throw in and believe yoga was responsible for my back, but I m also not one to argue with results. I went again, this time to speed up the healing and prevent the problem from becoming chronic. The R in PRICE stands for rest and is critical after a sport injury. People are so anxious to return the game and they fail to realize that if they don t let this injury heal, it will become chronic and weak and they will get injured again. I don t mean go to bed as that can make certain problems worse. But avoiding using the area injured. Certainly avoid causing anything which will cause pain in the injury part. Pain is a signal that something isn t quite right. Ice is important to Hot Yoga (the one where they turn the heat in the room up to 100 degrees) and it s not an exaggeration to say I hadn t sweat that much in years. At that point I realized why yoga was a part of the at home workout regimen I had taken part in earlier, and how little my previous workouts were doing for me. A few days later my back was fine, but I didn t stop going to yoga. As I saw it there were three very basic, very apparent reasons to continue. 1) I was using muscles I didn t know I had. It s a humbling experience to be so tired you re actually shaking while in a push-up position. I knew I would get stronger if I continued. 2) I was definitely more flexible, even after a month, than I was before. Of course, that s not saying much. I went from being rigid like a 2x4 to being able reduce swelling as well as decreasing pain. The key is 10 to 20 minutes repeated frequently for at least 24 to 72 hours after an injury. Let the area warm up for at least the same amount of time you put the ice on. I have had patients fail to do this and they have actually gotten frost bite from using ice for too long a period. In my experience as a chiropractor, if swelling continues after icing for that long, it should still be used but the injury should be more thoroughly evaluated by either a chiropractor, orthopedist or your PCP. Compression also to touch my toes. Baby steps, I know, but I ll take it! 3) The 60 minutes I spent practicing was 60 minutes I didn t spend stressing about anything. I was instructed to shed outside concerns away and focus on my mat. To be honest, that was a primary sticking point distractionfree exercise. At this point I am almost six months into my practice, and while all the reasons I just listed still motivate me to attend, it was something quite unexpected that I found to be my main motivation. Prior to this I just didn t understand group exercise. I thought I d be too self-conscious to get anything substantial out of it. I ve found the opposite to be true; I enjoy the group aspect of yoga. There is a set of familiar faces every time I go, and by reduces edema or swelling which can further damage ligaments and tendon by stretching them. We use Kinesiotape in our office which is very helpful. If you watch sports on TV you may have seen the athletes with the colored tape on their body. This is the K-tape which not only supports the area but adds compression and helps pump fluid away from the injury. It is very effective. The last thing important is treatment of sport injury is elevation. This also reduces swelling which speeds up healing. The area this point I ve absolutely embraced the team nature of it all. I notice when my friends aren t there, and they notice when I m not there. When someone returns, there s a real sense of happiness to see them back in the group. Even though we don t speak to each other during practice, we hardly even look at each other; we re silently pushing each other. We re motivating one another without even saying a word. And it s that silence, that peace, that I feel will be motivating me for a long time to come. For information about youth programs at the Southington Community YMCA, please contact Jay Jaronko, YMCA Youth Program Director at or by at jjaronko@southingtoncheshireymca.org. Injuries? PRICE them, protect, rest, ice and elevate There are certain common questions on wills that everyone asks. The first question is usually, Do I need a will? If you don t have one, the laws of Connecticut will dictate where your assets go, and the person named to handle your estate may not be the person you would have chosen. For many people, the Connecticut law will send property to your spouse, and if your spouse is deceased, to your children. But if you are married for a second time, the rules change and the law may not provide what you desire. So the answer is, yes, a will is needed, and that is true even if you have a Revocable Trust, because it is a rare person who puts all his property into that trust that was signed years ago. The second question is often, But won t that mean I have to pay probate fees? the answer to that is, in Connecticut, probate fees are not based on whether property passes through a will, but on the values shown on the Succession Tax Return (even though the Connecticut exemption is $3.5 million). So it is not the will that triggers a probate fee, which in Connecticut is quite small, but the Succession Tax Return. Another question is Where should I keep my will? There is no single answer, but the rule of thumb is to keep it in a safe place such as a safe deposit box or fireproof box at home. And most important, tell your family, or other trusted persons where you keep it, because when it comes time to use it, you won t be around to tell them it s in the shoe box on the top shelf in the spare bedroom closet. People will sometimes ask if the will is good in other states and the answer is yes, as long as it was validly made here. That is true even if the signing requirements are different in another state. Many people have prior wills and ask what should be done with it. Since almost any lawyer will use language in the new will revoking all prior Wills, it is not necessary to destroy the old one. But if there is a drastic change for some reason, such as leaving someone out, it may be wise to destroy the old one so that person does not find and deep six the new one and present the old one to probate. When should I review my will? is frequently asked. I often say When something happens that makes you very glad or very sad. That could be hitting the lottery (we all wish) or having a loved one need a nursing home. Not long ago, a client had to enter a nursing home, and her very old and wealthy sister died without changing her will, and everything from the very wealthy sister went to reimburse the State of Connecticut for the care of the sick sister. Times to think of changes are upon retirement, if your assets change significantly, if something happens to your beneficiaries, if you marry, divorce, or have or adopt a child. Last, people usually ask if they should tell their children what is in their will. In most cases, nothing bad will come of this, but sometimes one child will feel miffed if they are not the executor and a brother or sister is the executor. If there is any chance of that type of ill-feeling, just tell those adult kids you have done a will and where you keep it. The rest is none of their business. But they do need to know where it is. In the age of the word processor, it is very easy to modify an old will, so making changes is usually quick and inexpensive. The old adage, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is true when it comes to passing on property, so make sure you have those legal tools everyone needs, which include a will. You ll sleep better after your questions are answered and your will is signed. must be elevated above the heart to aid in the passive removal of fluid. Controlled inflammation is an important part of healing. If you stop it with the use of NSAIDs like Advil or Alieve, you stop the healing process. While it helps with pain, the tissue injured won t show any progression toward repair and will actually become weaker. 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. Here are some common questions and answers on wills Stephen Allaire Elder Security 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 Avenue, Bristol, (860) ), or on the web at 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. Advertise here! You re reading it. Your customers are too! Call The Observer/Step Saver (860)

11 To advertise, call (860) Neighbors Faces in the Crowd Elizabeth Ragozzino Don t do drugs Tammi Knapik Each week we interview a regular person like you for our Faces in the Crowd. This week we meet Elizabeth Ragozzino. How long have you been connected to Southington? Both sets of my grandparents came here from other countries. One set from Poland and the other from Italy. I have been in Southington my whole life. What do you like about the town? There is a lot to do in town. I am involved with the American Legion, karate, dance, and various clubs at school. Credit union opens What is your favorite movie? I like the Twilight series, although I would have to say that the books are better than the movie. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? Don t do drugs and stay in school. If you could meet anyone in the world, who would you like to meet? Leonardo DiCaprio. He is my favorite actor. SUBMITTED American Eagle Federal Credit Union has recently opened a new financial institution retail business at 888 Queen Street. This location is owned and being leased by JBW Enterprises, LLC. Our Friends By ED HARRIS EDITOR The Southington YMCA recently held its annual support campaign kick-off with a special breakfast. As visitors ate, various members of the YMCA extolled the charitable work that the YMCA is doing within the community. It s important to remind folks that the money that our Y raises from the Community Support Campaign is not used for the Y s electric bills, or to pay for chlorine for the pool, or to buy new treadmills for the Health and Wellness Center, said Paula Knight, secretary of the YMCA Board of Directors. Every dollar raised for the annual community support campaign goes directly to help local folks needing a helping hand. The YMCA is hoping to raise $270,000 this year. Southington High School Boy s Basketball Coach Bob Lasbury, campaign chair for the drive said the YMCA hoped to reach this goal through three areas, with support from the United Way of Southington, from 11 Obituaries...page 12 Good Times...page 15 Sports...24 YMCA kicks off funds campaign ED HARRIS The Southington YMCA held its annual support campaign kick-off breakfast last week. Above, Campaign Chair Bob Lasbury address the crowd. Business Spotlight SUBMITTED Michelle Maccio recenly opend Maccio Financial Group. Below, she tells us about her business. What is the history of your business? I opened Maccio Financial Group on 10/27/10 after leaving Edward Jones. This was one of the best decisions I ve ever made. As an independent Financial Planner I am in a position to best solve my clients needs using virtually any product or service in the marketplace. I also now have a variety of additional investment strategies available. What drew you to this particular business? I have been involved in Maccio Financial Group the finance industry in one way or another all my adult life. I am fascinated by the way investments work and really enjoy helping my clients make sense of investing. What drew you to open in Southington? I never thought about opening anywhere else but Southington. This is where my roots are. I live in this community and my children are growing up here. Working anywhere else wouldn t make sense to me. What makes you unique as a business? I specialize in helping individuals and small businesses grow their money and protect it at the same time. Because I am an independent Financial Planner I have the unique ability to really work best for my client. I m not incentivized on recommending one product over another. I truly sit on the same side of the table as my client and can recommend the most suitable strategy for them. Many other financial planners cannot say this. Maccio Financial Group is located at 31 Liberty Street, Suite 109 in Southington. Its phone number is Its web address is and our general box is info@macciofg.com. fundraisers such as Forever in Blue Jeans and the annual Polar Plunge and through donations. We have had to raise our goal for this year s campaign because the needs have never been greater, Lasbury said. We all know someone who has lost his or her job or is facing economic hardship. It s no secret that many people in our community are struggling financially. These folks are relying on the Y for help. Two guest speakers, a mother who has benefitted from the assistance and a Camp Sloper counselor who spoke about the impact of camp on the kids, shared their stories of how the YMCA has impacted their lives. For more information on how to donate, contact the Southington YMCA. This is where community has real meaning, said John Chiero, chair of the Blakeslee Society, which consists of donors that have donated $1,000 or more. This is not money we are asking you to donate. It s hope. Celebrating 100 years Bristol s Corinne Martel Rajotte celebrated her 100th birthday at the Manor Inn Restaurant with her family on Jan. 30 Mrs. Rajotte was born in Taftville, Conn. on Jan.26, 1911 and raised in Bristol. Her two nieces, Rita Van Epps of Southington, Janine Spada of Middletown and one nephew, Richard Martel of Middletown were at the event. Also attending Sunday s celebration were Kathy Martel, Sebbie Spada, Robert Van Epps, Rolland Van Epps, Bryan Van Epps, Kimberly Burns, and Agnes, George, and Debbie Newman. Corrine worked at the Ingraham Co. factory in Bristol for many years. She soon followed a traditional role and retired from there with Emile Rajotte, her husband of 40 years. She enjoys sewing. She attributes her longevity to never going to the doctor. She currently lives at the Pines of Bristol. Advertise here! You re reading it. Your customers are too! Call The Observer/Step Saver (860)

12 12 To advertise, call (860) Raymond Bobrowiecki, had a passion for building hot rods Raymond (Ramie) Bobrowiecki, 59, died unexpectedly on Feb, 20, in Winter Haven, Florida. He was born on April 30, 1951 in Southington. In 1979, He met his wife Melanie on a blind date and they married soon after. They had 31 loving years together. In 2003 they moved to Florida. Ramie s passion was building customized cars and hot rods with his best friend and son, Ray Bobrowiecki Jr. Bobrowiecki had a wonderful sense of humor and was well liked by all that met him. He was predeceased by his father, Raymond John Bobrowiecki. Bobrowiecki leaves behind his beloved wife Melanie Jo (Badgley) Bobrowiecki and his adored son Ray Bobrowiecki Jr. and Ray s fiancee Courtney Redner, his mother, June, and sister, Holly Bobrowiecki. He leaves his two special nephews Bryan Tripp and Adam Irish. He also leaves his constant companion, Dixie Dog. Adelia (Norman) Godrey, was a lifelong member of the American Legion Adelia Wilbur (Norman) Godfrey, 90, of Southington, passed away peacefully March 10, at West Hartford Rehab Center. Godfrey, better known as Dee, was born in New Haven, Ct on October 28, 1920, the daughter of the late Wardell and Mary (Smith) Wilbur. She lived with her parents and grandparents in the Chauffeurs Gate House at Brewster s Estate (now Eagerton Park, New Haven). She and Raymond settled to raise their family in Southington in the early 40 s. Dee lived a very active life. Besides being the mother of nine children, she worked in the retail industry as well as manufacturing until she retired from Allied Control in Marion. She enjoyed volunteering her time as a Lifetime Member of the American Legion Post 72 where she served for over 59 years. She held the position as the Women s Auxiliary Past District & Unit President several times. She was also a member of the VFW Post Auxiliary 511 and Chapeau of Salon 566 as well as volunteered over 8,750 hours of her time at the Veterans hospital in Newington as the DAV District Representative. Dee was very proud of the military service of both her husbands, as well as her four sons, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and other crafts, and she also loved to camp and travel. She leaves her family and friends with many wonderful memories. She is predeceased by her two husbands, Raymond Norman and Ernest Godfrey, two sons Philip Norman and Daniel Norman, and her daughter Sandra Lee (Norman) Pelletier, as well as her brother Weldon Wilbur and her sister s Elberta (Marinoff) Watrous and Jean Kettle. Godfrey is survived by six children, James Norman of Rocky Hill, Larry Norman of Niles MI, Edward Norman of Southington, and Nelson Norman of Covington GA, Susanann Norman of Torrington and Kelly (Norman) Christiansen of Olive Branch MS, and spouses who have blessed her with 20 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Donations may be made in Adelia s name to the American Cancer Society, Centralized Memorial Processing Center, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA Oasis Church moves from the Grange to new home in Cheshire After worshiping at The Southington Grange for over two years, Oasis will hold their first service at their new location 176 Sandbank Road, Cheshire on Sunday, March 20, at 10:15am. Having outgrown their previous facility, Oasis is eager to better accommodate its growing church body with a nursery and classrooms as well as better serve their surrounding community. The new space gives Oasis the chance to expand their quarterly Church Outside the Walls events that take place throughout Connecticut. Oasis is a nondenominational church and welcomes all people at any stage along their spiritual journey. Guests are encouraged to come as they are. To learn about Oasis purpose and vision, please visit Obituaries Martha Czywczynski, emigrated to US Martha S. (Haller) Czywczynski, 84,of Plantsville, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday March 5. She was the loving wife of the late Thaddeus Czywczynski for 27 years. Born in Neckarau, Germany on August 31, 1926 to the late Emma S. (Hepper) and Otto Haller, she emigrated post war from Germany to start a new life in the United States in She worked at Superior Electric in Bristol and Bloomindales by Mail in Cheshire, retiring at the age of 79 years. She enjoyed reading, playing cards, and her junkets to Mohegan Sun. BLACKHAWK OIL We Prey on High Oil Prices Best C.O.D Prices Around 24-Hour Service Over 30yrs. Experience Call and Save Automatic Delivery Upon Approval Czywczynski is survived by three children, Ursula Vinke of Cheshire, Thomas and his wife Deborah Czywczynski of Southington, Michael and his wife Victoria Czywczynski of Planstville, five grandchildren: Eric, Stephanie, Ryan, Stacy, and Emily Rose, and two sisters: Hedwig Mückenmüller and Margret Hahn of Mannheim, Germany, and her niece and nephew in Germany. She was predeceased by two sisters and a brother. In lieu of flowers, donations in Martha s honor may be made to the Hospice of Central Connecticut, 56 W. Main St, Plainville. June Hansen, owned various restaurants June (Crowley) Hansen, 84, of Macintosh Way, passed away Sunday March 6, at Hospital of Central CT, Bradley Memorial. She was the wife of the late Harold Hansen. She was born June 3, 1926 in Brooklyn, NY, daughter of the late Leo and Josephine (Rabori) Crowley. Hansen had been a Louise Wheeler, member of YMCA Seniors Louise (DePaulo) Wheeler, 90, of Southington, died Saturday, March 5, at HCC at Bradley Memorial. She was the wife of the late Albert Ralph Wheeler. Born in Southington on May 20, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Theresa (DeFeo) DePaulo. veteran in the U.S. military and was employed in Human Resources and also was the owner and operator of various restaurants on Long Island, NY. She Hansen was a parishioner of St. Dominic Church. She is survived by her She was a member of YMCA Seniors, The Degree of Pocahontas of the Redmen, and the Smile Group at the Summit. Wheeler is survived by four children, Nettie Ruth McIntyre, Patricia Bradley, Robert Wheeler and James Wheeler all of Southington, three sisters Rose Kyle of FL, Anna Abate of children, Karen Gersbeck and her husband John of Southington, Robert Hansen and his wife Theresa of Long Island, NY, Thomas Hansen and his wife DeAnna of FL. Hansen loved and was proud of her 13 grandchildren, John, Johnny, Kirsten, Jennifer, Robert, Erik, Steven, Greg, Jacqueline, Lexi, Luke, Holly and Hunter, and 2 Southington, and Theresa Munger of Terryville, eight grandchildren Dolores Ahern, Richard, Jeffery and Gary McIntyre, Jason and Paula Bradley, Joshua Gerwatowski and Kaila Michaud, 12 great grandchildren, Michael and Danielle Ahern, Angela, Richard, Christopher, Ryan and Kevin McIntyre, great grandchildren, Ryder and Chase. Many years of her life were spent in Montauk, NY, fishing, working and creating memories for herself and her children. She was predeceased by a brother Thomas. Donations may be made in her memory to the Calendar House, 388 Pleasant St. Southington, CT Nathan, Nathalie and Nicholas Bradley, Kathryn DeRubbo and Kegan Pike Michaud and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a daughter Dorothy Michaud, four brothers Pasquale, Ralph, Joseph and Dominic DePaulo and 2 sisters Mary Roback and Laura Manfred. Timothy Beerbaum, independent prototype toolmaker Timothy Beerbaum, 69, of Cheshire, passed away on Wednesday March 9, 2011, at his home with his devoted wife of 43 years Johanne (Mischou) Beerbaum at his side. Born in Waterbury on October 7, 1941, he was the son of the late William and Sylvia (Loucks) Beerbaum. Advertise here! You re reading it. Your customers are too! Call The Observer/Step Saver (860) He was an independent prototype toolmaker contracting with several industrial companies throughout his career. He enjoyed train collecting and was a member of the TCA. He composed piano and organ music and even held a concert on May 15, 2005 at St. John s Episcopal Church in 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 eharris@southingtonobserver.com, mail it to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489, or fax it to The Observer at (860) 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 jgoralski@southingtonobserver.com, mail it to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489, or fax it to The Observer at (860) Waterbury where his music was performed by pianist Sheng-Yuan Kuan. He will also be remembered as a joker with a quirky sense of humor. He resided in Cheshire for the last 32 years. Beerbaum is survived by his two sons William Bill and his wife Beth Beerbaum, Dion and his wife Patricia Beerbaum six grandchildren Angelica, Shallynn, Christine, Mischelle, Dion Jr., and Jessica Beerbaum, all of Southington. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the VNA Hospice, 50 Brookside Rd, Waterbury, CT Rubbish Appliances Furniture Junk Basements Garages Estate Move Outs How to contact The Observer (860) 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 You can send your information to The Observer care of the editor Ed Harris at eharris@southingtonobserver.com, mail it to The Observer, 213 Spring St., Southington, CT 06489, or fax it to The Observer at (860) Advertising Don t just read The Observer, advertise in The Observer. To reach an advertising representative, give us a call (860)

13 To advertise, call (860) Southington High School has announced its honor roll for the second marking period. Grade 9, First Honors: Samantha Aberizk, Matthew Albrecht, Austyn Armbruster, Austin Atashian, Michael Aylett, Gabrielle Baker, Alyson Baribault, Stephen Barmore, Josef Barry, Blake Bauer, Samantha Becotte, Matthew Bennett, Deven Bernaiche, Andrzej Bielecki, Joy Blanchet, Jessica Bocek, Colin Burke, Paula Calandra, Quinton Carmichall, Marisa Caruso, Christa Case, Antonia Cavallo, Nicole Chubet, Nicholas Cianci, Daniel Connolly, Rachel Conte, Austin Cormier, Olivia Corriveau, Makenna Daly, Jordan D Andrea, Samantha D Angelo, Maria DaRocha, Laurel Dean, Brendan Donahue, Lauren Durand, Alexis Dziubek, Kaylyn Fagan, Margaret Fagan, Joseph Fazzino, Megan Fazzino, Rachel Flodquist, Eric Flood, Michaela Gee, Tomasz Giza, Taylor Grucza, Abigael Guthrie, Elizabeth Gwara, Abigail Harris, Katherine Hartford, Diane Hassanieh, Lilian Herman, Quoc Ho Lam, Andrea Hoyt, Tia Jones, Daniel Kane, Carolynn Keal, Denis Kelolli, Rachel Klem, Krzysztof Konopka, Stephanie Krar, Natasha Lardie, Heather LeClerc, William Lefkovich, Nicole Lidzbarski, Sarah Lippincott, Matthew Listro Alicia Maffiolini, Vanessa Marchewka, Alexander Martin, Melissa Martin, Emily Mason, Amanda Mastroianni, Carissa Mirando, Sarah Mongillo, Amber Morelli, Michelle Morris, Colin Murphy, Sylvia Nguyen, Natalie Nyerick, Sara Oakes, Amanda Perriello, Matthew Pestillo, Victoria Plante, Alexander Queen, Elizabeth Ragozzino, Jamie Robertson, Michael Rogalski, Olivia Roth, Gianni Sabino, Madeline Sadlowski, Kylie Sarantides, Annalisa Sega, David Shaughnessy, Jian Siadat, Jocelyn Skurat, Lindsey Starr, Elizabeth Stearns, David Swanson, Tyler Sweetman, Thomas Swinicki, Isabelle Tedeschi, Marissa Tedeschi, Silvana Tellerico, Justin Truong, Zoe Tyz, Amanda Vollaro, Stephanie Whelan, Anna Williams, Lianna Wodzicki, Grade 10, First Honors: Bryan Adie, Kristina Albiach, Maria Albini, Katherine Amnott, Monika Arbaciauskaite, Hannah Berg, Jobi Bieluch, Brandon Brush, Samantha Buchalter, Sarah Caisse, Sarah Carangelo, Mary Lou Castiglione, Maeghan Chapman, Danielle Charamut, Nicholas Charnysh, Damian Chuchro, Elizabeth Correia, John Correia, Adam Costanzo, Ryan Daigle, Bryan Davis, William DeBarba, Elizabeth Del Buono, Christopher DeVona, Nicole Dietzel, Whitney DiMeo, Matthew DiNello, Caitlin Downes, James Doyle, Taylor Furgalack, Nicholas Garcia, Eileen Germain, Kaylie Giammatteo, Alicia Gomez, Andrew Goralski, Lori Guernon, Haley Gustavson, Kevin Hannigan, Jessica Harris, Danielle Hoskins, Drew Hudick, Sarah Hurley, Vladislav Kiveliyk, Katlin Klein, Rebecca Klem, Zachary Kligerman, Oliver Kochol, Erica Kosienski, Jonathan LaFollette, Timothy Langland, Megan Leether, Charlotte Lefkovich, Austin Lemoine, Weronika Lewkowicz Erin Malone, Arlind Mara, Louis Martocchio, Meaghan McFall-Gorman, Kristin Moller, Jordyn Moquin, Kathleen Mulhearn, Mary Nadeau, Rebecca Niland, Jordyn O Hearn, Stephanie O Keefe, Anthony Oliva, Morgan Ouellette, Andrea Pascariello, Gabriel Pelletier, Kathleen Penta, Jilian Pesce, Thien-Long Phan, Kailey Pisko, Alexander Pokorski, Molly Potter, Nicholas Powell, Julia Premus, Danielle Rasmus, Kimberly Rodriguez, Joseph Rogus, Jaclyn Ruszczyk, Joseph Salzillo, Nicholas Sciota, Edward Shaw, Emily Sheehan, Ian Sherwood, Nathaniel Shurack, Jennifer Sprengelmeyer, Ashley Stephenson, Michael Sullivan, Rebecca Swol, Nicole Szwelicki, Hannah Tillman, Katina Tsangarides, Mariah Washer, Nicole Wershoven, Daniel Wivell, Heidi Woodbury, Kevin Wormer Grade 11, First Honors: Diana Abouchacra, Urooj Ahmed, Nicole Ali, Alyssa Aligata, Elena Babineau, Nicole Baker, Kaitlin Bellis, Amy Boglarski, Meghan Bowes, Victoria Broytman, Victoria Buddle, Robyn Buttery, Ashley Cain, Jessy Carmichael, Ryan Carney, Emilie Chho, Karolina Chrzanowska, Nica Chua, Lindsay Clavette, Sarah Collier, Meghan Condren, Kyle Connolly, Michael Creely, Matthew Daigle, Jasmin D Andrea, Ricky Davis, Micaila Dean, Grace DeFeo, Luke Degling, Matthew Downes, Jenny Drozd, Brandon Duffany, Emily Durocher, Alexandria Ende, Rachael Fabian, Margaret Feltz, Sarah Feltz, Jacquelyn Ford-Cooperman, Nicholas Frega, Kristi Gardner, Emily Gerrish, Alejandra Gimenez, Deirdre Hermann, Sarah Hoder, Brian Kaminsky, David Karwowski, Collin Kjellquist, Ryan Langdon, Nathan Lavertu, Angela Lawrence, Nathan Leclair, Rachel Liquindoli, Rachel Lyles Kyle Macri, Sarah Mariani, Kyle Martin, Mark Mauriello, Megan McLaughlin, Chad Mehmel, Rachel Mongillo, Emma Myers, Susanne Nelson, Bridgette Normandin, Lindsay Novak, Cecely Ogren, Leon Peschel, Leah Petrucci, Micayla Plante, Courtney Race, Andrea Southington High Honor Roll Rasimas, Caylin Rauch, Melissa Reid, Alisha Robarge, Nicole Rossitto, Alyssa Rubin, Michaela Sadlowski, Destiny Sanchez, Rutvi Shah, Alexa Shubert, Kathryn Sikoski, Michael Smigelski, Amanda Snow, Emily Socha, Kate Starzyk, Christine Swol, Kayla Thomson, Jessica Topper, Nicholas Tosta, Yulia Vasilenko, Connor Waage, Haotian Wang, Megan Weiler, Laura Wilcox, Lauren Zdeblick, Ashley Zerbe, Tiffany Zysk, Grade 12, First Honors: Daniel Adamowicz, Elizabeth Alexander, Cody Andelin, Katharine Andres, Daniel Arndt, Nicholas Arnista, Kara Baker, Nathan Beaumont, Brigid Bednarczyk, Matthew Bernacki, Elsie Bernaiche, Julia Bocek, Timothy Brown, Michael Cannata, Erin Casey, Rebecca Casner, Jacquelyn Charamut, Michelle Cianchetti, Genesis Cifuentes, Eric Corriveau, Catherine Cota, Katharine Craven, Laura Crowley, Jessica Dabkowski, Kathryn Daddona, Andrea DeFrancesco, James DiNello, Douglas Dominello, Edana Downey, Gretchen Egan, Nathan Emery, Sarah Falcetti, Shane Fusco, David Gardner, Evan Gray, Briana Gregoire, Alexander Hoder, Kelley Hwang, Alexandria Irace, Sarah Judd, Tara Kearney, Gina Kelley, Shannen Kizilski, Almedina Kokic, Stephanie LaFollette, Anastasiya Larina, Jane Larson, Christopher Lee, Naomi Lemire Steven Maffiolini, Colin Magaro, Tiffany Masciangioli, Jaylon McKee, Jamie Mierzejewski, Justin Miller, Joshua Mitchell, Jessica Monson, Ellen Morelli, Victoria Munson, Stephen Murphy, Hayley Nati, Zachary Niles, Daniel O Connor, Megan O Doherty, Rhiannon Ouellette, Larissa Pawlak, Jocelyn Perlini, Amanda Plourde, Matthew Prezioso, Austin Primus, Shane Quadrato, Nicole Riedinger, Michael Robling, Kaitlyn Rogalski, Salvatore Romano, Matthew Russo, Jessica Sackett, Matthew Saucier, Mirela Sawicka, Marykate Scanlon, Emily Sherwill, Aaron Skarzynski, Kristy Solomon, Alexis Sone, Miles Stone, James Stylinski, Jennifer Suleski, Colleen Tangney, Megan Tillman, Kevin Twerago, Alisha Washer, Andrew White, Bryan Wilcox, Genna Wislocki, Kayla Wodzicki, Grade 9, Second Honors: Alex Angelillo, Christopher Baker, Andrea Baldick, Tyler Bard, Kayla Belanger, Megan Belcourt, Kevin Bellis, Michael Bielecki, Malik Blackwell, Justin Blake, Andrew Bottiglieri, LeeAnne Boucher, Gabrielle Boudreau, Paige Braziel, Connor Brennan, Kyle Burleigh, Brandon Carney, Desirae Casiano, Amarildo Ceta, Devonne Chandler, Jimmy Chen, Peter Christiano, Katherine Cichon, Megan Cochran, Brooke Cochrane, Colleen Coleman, Salvatore Conti, Cial Cook, Kevin Cop, Nicole Cova, Kelly Craven, Taylor Curran, Marissa Cusano, Joseph Daigle, Julia D Alessandro, Luke Davis, Gisella DelBuono, Amanda DePonte, Nishi Desai, Megan DeSorbo, Nicole DiMasso, Erika DiNeno, Mara Dubnicka, Taylor Elliott, Sydney Ferrante, Shane Florian, Amanda Gagne, Elizabeth George, Anna Golos, Finn Gordon, Victoria Gray, Ryan Hair, Michael Hoffman, Carolyn Hricik, Nicholas Hubeny, Christopher Hupper, Ian Jacobs, Claudia Jaslowski, Benjamin Johnson, Emilee Kemnitz, Nicholas Lamb, Erika Landino, Michael Lange Brian Mahon, Megan Martin, Zachary Maxwell, Michael Mazur, Allison McCormick, Kelsey Meenan, Katherine Miller, Ethan Min, Allison Morris, Alexa Mosley, Mikayla Mueller, Camila Munoz, Susan Murphy, Valerie Murphy, Hannah Orosz, Kayla Padroff, Stephen Peccerillo, Emily Pelletier, Scott Perretta, Francesca Picone, Gary Plourde, Megan Power, Olivia Premus, Sierrah Purvis, Jonathan Rauch, Joseph Rivera, Dylan Roach, Mitchell Rossitto, Wesley Rushing, Julie Saucier, Fiona Scanlon, Julian Sherwood, Nicholas Siarkowski, Steven Sica, Jaime Simard, Zachary Skarzynski, Kala Slade, Anthony Smith, Deana Sobilo, Dylan Sperry, Megan Steele, Kyle Summa, Joseph Taglia, Alexander Thomas, Shawna Toppi, Kyle Torres, Noah Violette, Annie Walsh, Tanner Walsh, Samantha Welch, John White, Cassandra Wneta, Elana Wojenski, Anna Wyluda, Sarah Wysocki, Anisa Xhurxhi, Carolyn Zesut, Grade 10, Second Honors: Jennifer Accuosti, Michael Ahern, Carla Albini, Danielle Albino, Howard Asal, Michaela Barnes, Robyn Barnett, Elise Bean, Gary Beaumont, Kristina Bolovis, Sabrina Boodley, Alex Borofsky, Ben Boucher, Nicholas Brino, Erica Buehler, Renee Burdon, Alyssa Burek, Haley Camden, Kevin Casserino, Elaina Chambrello, Hannah Chamis, Travis Clark, Austin Coley, Adam Coonan, Matthew Corjulo, Mika Derynioski, Stephanie DiCesare, David DiNeno, Marisa Donovan, Rachel Dorsey, Sabrina Dyson, Karen Falk, Molly Fiasconaro, Carmella Frosceno, Meg Gallagher, Nathaniel Gleicher, Sofia Gonzalez, Ryne Griffin, Jaimie Grzesczyk, Rachel Harvey, John Hayes, Carey Hilliard, Corinne Horanzy, Ryan Horner, Andrew Ianni, Nicholas Ingel, Megan Jasunas, Michael Jewett, Danielle Kaminsky, Jamie Kane, Kristin Kearney, Edmund Klein, Jeffrey Kolb, Allan Kolesnik, Jordan Lafland, Erica Larson, Wyatt Lavoie, Cassandra Lepage, Ashley LeVasseur, Meghan Lucente, David Lugli, Erick Luise Ashley Mafale, Samantha Magnanini, Suzanne Marcoux, Mitchell Molleur, Melanie Mongillo, Nicholas Monteleone, Ji He O, Elizabeth Ogren, Katelyn Ottalagana, Daniel Pappalardo, Rebecca Pappalardo, Andrew Pennell, Toni Penta, Ryan Perez, Shannon Perry, Kathryn Pistilli, Katelyn Ragozzino, Meghan Ramsay, Kyle Riedinger, Vincent Romano, Amanda Russman, Brandon Rycki, Nicole Salmon, Trevor Savage, Jordan Scarmozzino, Christopher Sherwill, Nicole Shorette, William Simms, Matthew Sirois, Autumn Skwiot, Audrey Snyder, Adam Sokolowski, Stephanie Sowa, Laura Spagnoletti, Brandon Staschke, Kaylee Storm, Richard Suleski, Casey Sullivan, Brett Susi, Bryson Teel, Marissa Theriault, Ricardo Torres, Troy Trovato, Morgan Vasile, Nicole Verrilli, 13 Kayla Viviano, Taylor Waters, Nicole Woodruff, Cynthia Woolley, Rachel Wrinn, Tyler Young, Alexander Zajda, Grade 11, Second Honors: Kenneth Arnold, Kevin Bartlett, Ashley Bean, Angelica Beerbaum, Benjamin Bernard, Alyssa Blanchette, Samantha Bottaro, Kristen Brandien, Danielle Brennan, Patrick Bussett, Emily Byrnes, Jessica Cahill, Carla Calandra, Daniel Carbone, Lindsey Carrier, Casimarie Castro, Cassidy Chamberland, Megan Chiasson, Allison Cisz, Shannan Colon, Ashley Coppola, Jordan Crowley, Shannon Cunningham, Cherraine Davis, Monique Defosse, Brooke Caitlin DeGumbia, Peter DelBuono, Matthew Dolan, Matthew Dube, Alyssa Dumphy, Kayliegh Dzioba, Kayla Egan, Joseph Enright, Emily Ferens, Ryan Ferguson, Dylan Figueiredo, Ryan Fischer, Caitlyn Flynn, Christie Freer, Craig Frobel, Emily Gardella, Samantha George, Kyle Graham, Lauren Granato, Jordan Gray, Kyle Hamel, Rachel Hayes, Erin Hoyt, Sarah Jackie, Rhiannon Jacobs, Mark Jaffer, Crystal Jensen, Julia Kaseta, Jennifer Keen, Marissa Kerns, Marianne Knoegel, Jean- Louis LaFrance, Tyler Lemoine, Matthew L Heureux, Samantha Licursi, Danielle Macioci, Lauren Mahon, Candy Makowski, Daniel Manware, Ana Markowich, Kayla Medeiros, Jessica Merrifield, Amy Mocci, Emily Mockler, Nicole Nguyen, Stephanie Norman, Matthew Norton, Nicholas Oropallo, Meghan Palinkos, Allison Palmieri, Meghan Parks, Jeffrey Parsons, Nicholas Perez, Steven Perretta, Kayla Petro, Diana Piotrowski, Victoria Pisano, Caitlin Powers, Miranda Pratt, William Queen, Alex Richardson, William Rivera, Kaylie Roth, Gage Salicki, Zara Saqab, Michael Schmidt, Perry Sharp, Noah Sheffy, Jillian Siegmund, Hannah Smith, Andrew Stearns, Mateusz Szajnar, Victoria Szulczewski, Anna Terrill, Edyta Tomaszewska, Janelle Tyminski, Allison Vachon, Devin VanPatten, Alex Vye, Katherine Wendt, Jordan Williams, Richard Williams, Margaret Young, Amanda Zambetti, Sarah Zimmerman, Diana Zysk, Grade 12, Second Honors: Lauren Ainsworth, Jenna Aldieri, Alexa Alejandro, Christopher Amnott, Samantha Babin, Kendal Bailey, Peter Bard, Jonathan Bean, Kristen Bennett, Mariah Berry, Alex Boccardi, Samuel Boudreau, Cassondra Brayfield, Jenalee Bruneau, Samantha Byron, Brady Callahan, Blair Casserino, Ryan Clancy, Evan Comeau, Kelly Cook, Samantha Crowley, Brittney Cyr, Jessica Davenport, Nicole Davidow, Leo See HONOR ROLL, page 18

14 14 To advertise, call (860)

15 To advertise, call (860) Good Times Observing the Arts...page 16 Listings...page 17 Our Night on the Town Sports...page 24 Pat Benatar: Erasing gender out of the rock equation By MIKE CHAIKEN Editions Editor These days in pop and rock music, most fans don t differentiate from men who rock and women who rock. Gender is no longer an issue. If you got talent, you ve got talent. But prior to the arrival of singer Pat Benatar and other women of that generation who defied convention, guys were the only ones who could play tough as nails loud rock music, wear leather and swagger across the stage. Women in music played softer music. They danced rather than swaggered. And they wore dresses, even evening gowns, that wouldn t be out of place at the country club cotillion ball. When Pat Benatar burst onto the music scene with the hard-charging Heartbreaker in 1979, she was an anomaly. She sang fist pumping rock that chugged along at a fast clip. It was crunchy sound that easily held its own with the latest tracks from Foreigner or Bad Company. Her voice, even though she traced her roots to the world of opera and live theater, had guts and grit. In a phone interview to promote her Friday night gig at MGM Foxwoods, Pat said people who didn t live through that era find it hard to believe that there was any gender bias in music. Pat said her own 26- year-old daughter said she can t imagine a time when there was any doubt a woman could rock and roll as well as a man. They think I m crazy, said Pat about the times she tells her story to younger women. But, Pat said it s kind of like the stories her mom used to tell her about how when she was younger the ice man made deliveries to fill up the ice box to preserve food. If you didn t live through those times, it s just hard to fathom how different it used to be. When Pat arrived on the scene, however, she said she benefitted from the changes already happening in the world. Women s attitudes were changing about what they could do. Mostly the divide was constructed outside of the world of music, said Pat. For musicians, there was never the attitude of a You rock pretty well, for a girl. Pat Benatar, front, and her husband and guitarist Neil Giraldo will be hitting the stage at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods on Friday night. Among musicians, there was total respect for women in the business. But outside of musicians, attitudes were different in the industry and the press. Pat said she would constantly be asked how it feels to be a female rocker. It became boring after awhile. Although Pat and her generation helped earn respect for women who rocked, the key was to eliminate the issue of gender altogether as to who could play what. Pat said her generation wasn t quite able to shed the issue of gender. From 1979 to 1989, she said not much changed. The divide still existed. Then from 1994 to 1999, Pat said, everything changed. As Pat and her contemporaries struggled to knock down walls, they also managed to empower young people subliminally to scrap the issue of gender entirely. By the time Beyonce or Lady Gaga started, they never would have thought it would be a problem (to be a woman), said Pat. It became second nature (to not give it a second thought) The whole mind set changed. Looking back on her career, Pat said, the struggle to break down the walls of gender was worth every minute of it. Along with Heart, Debbie Harry, and Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders, I was in the trenches. And although it was frustrating and a lot of hard work, albeit exciting, I m happy I got to go first. Pat had plenty of opportunity to think about her early days as a musician as she prepared her autobiography, Between a Rock and A Hard Place, which was released last June. Pat said she never wanted to write her biography. Although the times were crazy as she was coming up in the business, she and her husband-guitarist Neil Giraldo, and her band, were pretty quiet. She didn t think her life was interesting enough for a book. But Harper Collins, her publisher, thought people might be interested. As she wrote the book, Pat said, she had to do a lot of research into her own life. When she was establishing her career, she said she was very much about living in the present moment. Coming up through the ranks, she said they spent their time dealing with the business side of breaking through into the charts. They weren t worried about remembering every moment for future posterity. Writing the biography is one reason why Pat said she has no interest at the moment in recording a new album. She said she s not in the mind set to record. It s not as if she and her husband don t have the material for her new album, she said. They write all the time. And her husband is ready to record whenever Pat is ready. But for now, Pat said she is putting her focus on the book. And the literary world has a whole set of rules and you have to embrace that. These days, since she and Giraldo don t depend on recording for a living, she said they do it for fun. And if it isn t fun at the moment, there s no reason to do it. That doesn t mean she isn t interested in playing music, hence, the gig at the MGM Grand. That s how we keep our toes in the water We like to play. When fans come to the MGM Grand, Pat said the gig is kind of like homework for the band s annual summer tour. They will be figuring out what songs to add to their set. Pat said fans at the MGM Grand can expect the greatest hits, such as Love Is a Battlefield, Hit Me With your Best Shot, and Heartbreaker. But she said the plan is to mix it up and the band will be trying out some obscure songs fans might not have heard in a while. There also will be some cover tunes including a medley. The medley will be a fun surprise, but until the tour starts, Pat is keeping the contents of the medley close to her chest. As for the summer tour, Pat hasn t decided who will be her tour mates. One of her favorite summer tours was an all girls affair with Debbie Harry and The Donnas. And she might try to gather a similar bill this time around. She is especially interested in snagging a younger band for the bill because their energy is amazing. Pat Benatar plays the MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino on Friday, March 18 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30m $40, $50. They can be purchased at MGMatFoxwoods.com, foxwoods.com, or by calling Comments? mchaiken@bristolobserver. com.

16 16 To advertise, call (860) Short films hit the web; Local band evokes a Celtic spirit Kellie Lambert McGuire Observing The Arts BARC BITES The DINING ROOM Special of the Week TUNA MELT PLATTER SOUPS Mon. Pasta Bean Tues. Spinach & Chicken Wed. Baked Potato Thur. Meatball Stew Fri. Seafood Bisque 621 Jerome Avenue Brisol, CT $ 3 The GROWING CENTER ext 133 All Natural ext 128 DOG BISCUITS $ 5 95 LadiesNightOutOnTheTown.com Where Food, Friends and Shopping come together! at Aqua Terra Restaurant Rte 10, 153 East Street, Plainville, CT for a Night of Fun! Event for the MS Walk for Tina s Troops Monday, March 28, 6pm Glass of Wine, Famous Dinner Selections - $16. Vendors for Shopping for reservations CANDY KITCHEN Dogs 50 Love lb. Them Spring is coming. Enjoy the season with all that it has to offer. Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30-3:30 Chocolates and Candy for all occasions. ext 134 Call ahead for special orders or party favors. SUGAR FREE AVAILABLE Local shorts will reach the masses now. CTFilmShorts.com, a new website, will showcase the best of Connecticut-based short films for a global audience. The website will include a blog to keep people up to date on events and screenings concerning the film community in Connecticut, and it will link to news and reviews for the newest local film productions. The website s curator, Hadria Douglas, created the website to provide a platform for the many good short films that disappear after running in film festivals. Many filmmakers start with short films before going on to features, says Douglas. By providing a centralized place where films are viewed, receive feedback and possibly get reviewed, directors will have more incentive to improve their craft as well as gain valuable exposure. The site s initial lineup of shorts includes Gloria Mundi by Sara Lasley, Up by Richard Dobbs and Truly There by Elizabeth Cipollina. The site is also accepting film submissions of all genres by Connecticutbased filmmakers or from productions shot in the state. CELTIC TOUR: Local band Talking to Walls will play its first-ever St. Patrick s Day tour in the next week, with several shows around the region. The tour, dubbed the Black Hearts Parade Tour, will visit the Seaside Tavern in Stamford on Sunday. The tour will feature some of the band s Celtic originals, as well traditional Celtic music and dancers. Fans can download a copy of the single Black Hearts Parade, along with its b-side, at files.me.com/talkingtowalls/227e6v. For more information on the band, visit JOIN THE SHOW: The Wake of Matty O Malley, an interactive comedy show, will be from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, March 26 at the Bristol Polish Club. O Malley s last request was to be waked by the Quota Club of Bristol. Listen to eulogies cheerfully recited by all his cronies, wife, teacher and all the people to whom he owes money. Singing shenanigans and more follow. Tickets are $35 per person, which includes a dinner buffet at 6:30 p.m., followed by the show at 8. All proceeds benefit disadvantaged woman and children. For tickets, call Pam at (860) JAZZ, ROCK AND MORE: The Christopher Koenig Memorial Concert Series will present an evening jazz and rock and roll cabaret featuring The Convertibles. at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Plantsville Congregational Church, 109 Church St., Plantsville. Tickets are $10, which includes music and dancing. Patrons are asked to bring snacks; soda, juice and desserts will be on sale during the program. Call (860) for tickets or information. TALENT SHOW: The Plainville Talent Show sponsored by PARC, Inc. will be held on Friday, March 25 at the Dance Hall on Woodford Avenue in Plainville from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, 12 and under free. For more information, contact (860) or parc.plainville@ gmail.com. NEW SHOW: The legendary Paul Simon will perform at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods at 8 p.m. May 29. Simon is on tour to celebrate the release of his first new album in five years, titled So Beautiful or So What. Tickets are $90, $100 and $125 and are on sale Commercial & Residential Spring Clean-Ups Mulching Lawn mowing Shrub removal Deck power wash & stain Free Estimates Insured & Licensed HIC Glasses, Contact Lenses, and Sunglasses Eyewear Additional Pair as low as now. Visit call (866) SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER: The Bristol chapter of the NAACP will host a gospel play and concert to raise funds for two youth scholarships. The April 2 event will be in the auditorium of Memorial Boulevard Middle School. The play, Glory Train, will be surrounded by a mini-concert performed by three gospel groups: 2 Blessed of Bristol, The Wheeler Family of Meriden and The Spiritual Souls of Waterbury. The ten actors featured in the production all hail from the Bristol and Plainville area. Admission is $10 per adult and $5 for children ages 12 and younger. Pastor Irene Singleton will emcee the event, which begins at 7 p.m. For tickets or more information, contact Lexie Mangum at (860) or lexiemangum@ gmail.com. Send arts and entertainment news and listings, including information on local musicians, artists, theater, film, books and more, to kellmcguire@yahoo.com. SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WHO HAVE LOST A CHILD(REN) Comfort for the Broken-Hearted Meetings are every 3rd Sunday of the 7pm WHERE: New Life Fellowship 1 Northwest Drive Plainville (Across from BLICK S) NEXT GROUP: March 7pm For questions, call Pat at after 5:30pm MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED HOURS Tues, Wed, Fri 10am-6pm Thur 10am-8pm Sat 10am-4pm 927 Farmington Avenue BRISTOL, CT Eye & Contacts Exams by Appointment Paul Simon will be performing at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods on May 29. M & Painting Pinterior/exterior painting services Mike Nappi Owner Over 20 years experience Fully Insured Certified Renovator Save20 % Saveon jobs booked in March Call today Point & Click Read it all on the Web.

17 To advertise, call (860) SATURDAY, MARCH 19 CHRISTOPHER KOENIG MEMORIAL CONCERT SERIES. 7 p.m. at the Plantsville Congregational Church. Jazz and rock cabaret featuring The Convertibles. Tickets are $10. ARC OF ANNUAL DINNER DANCE. 7 p.m.-midnight at the Aqua Turf. Evening includes cheese table, open bar, guest speaker Rev. Will Marotti of WTIC 1080 AM state and church, silent auctions and raffles. Several dinner choices available. Tickets are $75 per person or $675 for a table of 10. Proceeds benefit the Arc of Southington. For tickets call ext SUNDAY, MARCH 20 ACCORDIAN GATHERING. 1 p.m. at Spartan II Restaurant. US Champion Christopher Gorton featured. Open mike to follow. Free to CAA members. $10 otherswise. CYBER KNIGHT PANCAKE BREAKFAST. 8-11:30 a.m. at the Calendar House. $6 per person. Five and under eat free. MONDAY, MARCH 21 YOGA CLASSES. 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesday, 6 p.m. on Fridays. Six week session. Sponsored by the Southington Arts Council. $32 members, $37 non members. For info or to register, call 621- ARTS. RARE COIN AND CURREN- CY AUCTION. At the Residence Inn. Lot viewing will start at 5 p.m., with the auction starting promptly at 7 p.m. For further info, charteroakcoin@gmail.com or call TUESDAY, MARCH 22 ORCHARD VALLEY GARDEN CLUB. 10 a.m. at the Southington Library. Master Gardener Uta Zickfeld will discuss the Asian longhorn beetle. For more info, contact Dr. Carol Grant, GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY. 7:30 p.m. at meeting room at Southington Police Department. Deanna Dailey will host question and answer series. WEEKEND WARRIOR DIN- NER. 5 p.m. at the Southington Care Center. Dinner with Dr. Richard Scarlett on aches and pains from over exerting yourself on the weekends. RSVP by calling or at rsvp@ctseniorcar.org APPLE VAL- LEY CHAPTER AARP MEET- ING. 1 p.m. at Mary our Miscellaneous listings Queen Hall. Any member of national AARP is invited to join. Meteorologist Art Horn is the guest speaker. Members are asked to bring non-perishable food to donate to Community Services. WED., MARCH PROJECT. 7-9 p.m. at Sliders.Format for first meeting will be 'Meet & Greet', with a video presentation and a possible guest speaker. This is a free, non-partisan event tied directly to the 9-12 State and National groups. Food and beverages will be available for purchase through waitress or at the bar. For details and directions go to: Facebook 9-12 Project - Hartford County Group or call Ron Lamoreux, SATURDAY, MARCH 26 GOLDRUSH/FAMILY PASTA NIGHT. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Southington Elks Club. $12 pp, children 8-15 $4. Sponsored by the Southington Emblem Club for State President Elect nancy Pahl of the CT State Association of Emblem Clubs. BOTTLE AND CAN DRIVE. 9-1 p.m. at Kelley School. Seeking anyone in the community to bring their returnable bottles and cans to help raise money for the Kelley School fifth grade end of year celebration. MONDAY, MARCH 28 UNICO ITALIAN DINNER. 6:30 p.m. at Testa s Restaurant. Full course Italian dinner. For reservations contact any UNICO member. SUNDAY, APRIL 3 UNICO BIG BREAKFAST. 7:30-11:30 a.m. at Calendar House. All you can eat breakfast foods. Tickets $6 for adults and $5.50 for seniors. Tickets available at Fasulo & Albini CPAs, Calendar House and any UNICO member. THURSDAY, APRIL 7 SCRABBLE CHALLENGE/SILENT AUC- TION. 6-9 p.m. at the Aqua Turf. Fundraiser for the Literacy Volunteers of CT. Teams of 6-10 or solo.$50, includes meal and Scarbble. To register call or lvccoffice@gmail.com. SATURDAY, APRIL 16 TAI CHI AT THE ORCHARDS. 8:15-9 a.m. at The Orchards at Southington. Level I, beginiers, 9:15-10 a.m., Level II, advanced. Will run for six weeks.rsvp to MARCH-APRIL 20 LENTEN NOONDAY SER- VICES. 12 noon in the Barnes Memorial Chapel at The First Congregational Church of Southington. Each Wednesday, the public is invited to join the congregation at First Congregational Church for a brief, 30-minute service of worship, followed by a Lenten Luncheon at 12:30 p.m. downstairs in Memorial Hall. The cost of the luncheons, sponsored by various organizations in the church, is $3. THROUGH MAY 11 CHAIR YOGA a.m. on Fridays. For more info visit THROUGH MAY 11 MOVE BEYOND PAIN CLASS. 4-5:30 p.m. at Southington Care Center. $100 for 10 weeks of lectures and exercises for teh management of chronic pain. For more info call ONGOING 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. BUSINESS NETWORKING. 7-8:30 a.m. Tuesdays. The Orchards. For more information, call or andy@aibllc.com. 17 PARENT SUPPORT GROUP. Are you tired of your kids running your life? Call us, Pat and Dick, or Bill and Marriette, 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 Valerio-Matyka, (860) 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. Bowling with a Buddy is not run, sponsored, or endorsed by the Southington Public Schools or the Southington Board of Education. Contact: Katrina Toce, kattoce@hotmail.com. COULD YOU USE A HELPING HAND? How can I make this work? CALL YOUR CARING NEIGHBORS! WHEN YOU CAN T BE IN TWO PLACES AT ONE TIME WE CAN Nothing is Impossible... We understand and appreciate the challenges of caring for your loved ones and your self, while still maintaining a degree of normalcy and dignity. Whether you re missing work, vacation with the kids, or just some personal time to decompress, Infinity can help. Your health matters too. Patient Care Assistance Live-In Companions Nursing Care Physical Therapy Transportation Adult Day Care Respite Care Light Housekeeping Errands, Laundry and Most of all... Piece of Mind All caretakers are thoroughly verified and credentialed. Call

18 18 To advertise, call (860) Rumors is a return to director s SCT roots By KRISTIN SANTA MARIA CORRESPONDENT The first show that Amanda Savio Guay did with the Southington Community Theater (SCT) was Rumors. She tech directed the show in Now, 15 years later, her experience with that Neil Simon play has come full circle as she directs Rumors as part of a revamped SCT. Going into it now, it was great to be so familiar with it, said Guay taking a brief break to talk to the Observer via a phone interview as she worked on the set for Rumors. This is the third production of Rumors that Guay has been involved with, but her first time directing the From page 13 Pre-K 3 & 4 Custom Made Jewelry Jewelry Repairs Engraving 826 South Main Street Plantsville, CT SHS Honor Roll DeBarba, Emily Derynoski, Richi Desai, Matthew Desprey, George Dibble, Timothy Donovan, David Dubois, Alicen Dziubek, Erik Eaves, Dylan Fallis, Mollie Faust, Kara Fazzolari, Patrick Fitzgerald, Alexa Garcia, Joseph Gianatti, Colleen Girouard, Thomas Golymbieski, Jakub Gorski, Alexander Groom, Brandon Haas, James Hammond, Nicholas Hasko, Mark Hayden, Cassandra Hilerio, Kendall Hodges, Allyson Hoskins, Jillian Hricko, Katelyn Hyde, Lynze Khan, Kaitlynn Kofsuske, Katelyn Kujawski, Kaleigh Kupstis, Timothy Lachapelle, Katherine Lainas, Nina Landy, Natasha Lange, Olivia Lank, Alexandra LaPorte, Alicia LaRose, Jason Lawrence, Keith Lebel, Tyler Letendre, Susana Lopez, Jeanette Luna Matthew Macchi, Bryan MacDonald, Daniel Marut, Elizabeth Massucci, Nicholas Mastroianni, Brianna Mayer, We buy your old Jewelry, Gold, Silver, Silver Plate, Platinum, Coins & Foreign Gold Erin McLean, Molly Meehan, Michaela Melillo, Toby Meyer, Tyler Moss, Emilee Mowatt, Enjan Mullaj, Samantha Nappi, Joseph Nardello, Rachael Nelson, Evan Nyerick, Katharine Otis, Joseph Pacheco, James Palko, Joseph Pesce, Bryan Polzella, Elizabeth Rember, Jonathan Repollet, Mackenzie Ritchie, Kyle Ritondo, Peter Roach, Brooke Sakowicz, Kevin San Angelo, Matthew Santucci, Jaimee Sargent, Brian Sargis, Kara Scheffler, Matthew Shafran, Michelle Sirois, Zachary Smith, Daniel Snyder, Justin Sposato, Marc St George, Olivia Stephenson, James Strange, Sarah Stublarec, Joseph Sullivan, Connor Taricani, Alyssa Tassie, Amanda Tellerico, Gillian Testa, Brian Thompson, Kevin Thompson, Lauren Tordanato, Nicholas Tumolo, Lauren Tycz, Meaghan Ukers, Jenifer Vaillancourt, Chelsea Vialpando, Pavlo Vynar, Matthew Walker, Codi Wayton, Lindsay Zissis, Adam Zukowski Read us online! REGISTER NOW! CALL TO SET UP TIME TO COME IN. Queen of Apostles Montessori School 472 East Road, Bristol, CT Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 3:30pm Owned & Operated by the Religious Teachers Filippini Watch Repairs Watch Batteries Restring Pearls Tel: Fax: production. Five years ago, she also acted in a production in Simsbury. Between the three shows, Guay estimates that she has seen the play 70 or 80 times. Now, in the directing seat, she has the chance to put her stamp on it. Rumors by Neil Simon is a farce about several well-to-do couples that come to a 10th anniversary dinner party only to discover that the host, the Deputy Mayor, has shot himself in the ear. The host s wife is missing and the guests have to figure out exactly what is happening. Sounds like a typical night out, doesn t it? Now, some people may be thinking that this is a comedy, and it couldn t possibly be that hard to stage. Guay said, The challenge is with comedy, and this [ Rumors ] in particular, the running and the door slamming and the quick, quick dialogue the pacing has to move quickly or you are going to lose people. Currently, Guay said, that the cast is off book and trying to get those quick moments right. They are working on the fast exchanges of dialogue and keeping the pacing right. One thing Guay is quick to point out is that every time she attends a rehearsal she laughs. For someone who has seen this show so many times that is quite an accomplishment, she noted. We hear and have Power Equipment, LLC 275 Terryville Road Bristol, CT #1 REASON TO CALL US WE ONLY DO BATHROOMS! HAVE YOUR BATHROOM PROFESSIONALLY REMODELED IN JUST ONE WEEK. FOR AS $ NOT reglazed LOW AS or mold hiding liner 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. 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Lamberto is in Rumors playing Cookie, a cook with Small Engine Repair & Maintenance Servicing Most Makes & Models Lawn Tractors and Mowers Tillers and Trimmers Leaf Blowers Fully Insured Pick-up and Delivery Available FOR AS $ LOW AS 3150 Free Estimates SUMMA CONSTRUCTION SERVICES L.L.C Mer.-Wtby Rd, Southington, CT Licensed & Insured Family Owned & Operated Over 40 Yrs. Experience CALL (860) Lic # her own cooking show on television. She also is the producer of the show and the co-president of SCT. Lamberto has been involved with theater since she was in elementary school. A major draw of being involved with the theater is the way she gets to meet new people who share the commonality of theater. For Lamberto, each person brings something new to the table. Acting as a producer lets her flex her planning skills that she has developed through her experience teaching. SCT is run by a multitude of people pitching in to accomplish the many tasks involved in not only staging a show, but also running a control Bob Semrow Jr. Lic. # B Mice, Bees, Ants, other creepy insects and termites (860) Installation - Service - Repair Water heater replacements - Gas, Oil, Electric High-efficiency tankless water heaters installed Faucet and fixture replacement and repair Water filter installation theater company. Every single person I call to help me, helps me, Lamberto says. She said she considers the reorganization of SCT as more of a rebirth. SCT is opening its doors to anyone to become a part of their family. Rumors will be performed by the Southington Community Theater from March 24 to 26 at 7:30 p.m. at DePaolo Middle School, 85 Pleasant St., Southington. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door, and are available at Just For You Country Gifts, 979 Meriden-Waterbury Rd., Plantsville, The Music Shop, 405 Queen St., Southington, and at the door. Key Club: Celebrating 50 years From page 1 brances of their time in the organization. One such alumnus was guest speaker Art Secondo, president of the Southington Chamber of Commerce. Secondo was a past president of the Key Club. By being in the Key Club, I learned what service is, Secondo said. Key Club is an acronym for Kiwanis Educating Youth. James Bowes, a longtime member of the Kiwanis Club, talked about the various ways that the Key Club helps out its parent organization. The Key Club has won numerous awards during its 50 year history. One major area is fundraising, he said. We are very proud of the Key Club, Bowes said. We are proud of your efforts in the community. According to Key Club advisors Beth Homer and Petra Jenkinson, the Key Club offers 20 projects a year, including, but not ED HARRIS limited to letter writing, coat drives, babysitting at PTO meetings and fund raisers for UNICEF, leukemia and the American Cancer Society. One of the organizations most popular fundraisers is the kiddie carnival, which was held Saturday at the high school. The advisors said to receive credit the students must complete six hour of service per term. Many of the Key Club members, both past and present, said the organization helped them build confidence and character. I am a true example of how Key Club can influence students, said group President Nicole Davidow, describing how the Key Club has helped her grow as a person. Serving the Community for over 25 years Now offering same day service Mon-Fri 24 HR. EMERGENCY SERVICE 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) NEED A PLUMBER? 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19 To advertise, call (860) That Orange Blossom Special put his career in motion By MIKE CHAIKEN EDITIONS EDITOR At age 4, most children are just making their way into pre-k and learning their numbers and alphabet. But Michael Cleveland, who is coming to Connecticut with his band Flamekeeper, was doing more than most children do at 4-years of age. He picked up the fiddle for the first time. And he began to learn how to play. Now an adult, Cleveland, and his bluegrass band Flamekeeper, have won the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) Instrumental Group of the Year for four years straight, 2007, 2008, 2009, and Given that success, one could say that boy sure learned how to play. Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper will be playing at the Unitarian Hall in Hamden on Saturday, March 19 as part of the GuitartownCT series. My grandparents didn t play (any instruments) but they were huge fans of the music, said Cleveland. They were a big part of the local bluegrass scene so they started taking me to the open stage events when I was a baby. I always heard bluegrass and started to really like it, said Cleveland. When he was 4, he said he heard a local fiddler play Orange Blossom Special (which is considered the most famous fiddle tune ever). Cleveland said, That really captivated me I knew right then that s what I wanted to do. Cleveland said he started school that year. They had a classical violin program at the school, so his parents signed him up. And he began to play. Once I got where I could play a few simple songs his family began to bring the youngster to local jam sessions, said Cleveland. There were a lot of good pickers in my area, said Cleveland. And as Cleveland tried to join in, They were real patient with me. What was it about bluegrass music that spoke to Cleveland at age 4? I don t even know, said Cleveland. I just heard it and I liked it so much, I just knew I had to do it. As he got older, he continued to love the music. What I really like about it is the energy of it, the fire, especially in traditional bluegrass. He said you could hear that fire in the music recorded by bluegrass legends such as Flatt and Scruggs, Bill Monroe, Jimmy Martin, and the Stanley Brothers. When those guys played, you could hear the energy in it, the excitement and feeling they were playing with. This was especially noticeable when those legends played live, said Cleveland. When the emcee Michael Cleveland and his band Flamekeeper play in Hamden this Saturday. would announce those legends, They would run out there (on stage) and hit it. You could just tell they loved what they were doing and you could hear that in their music. And as for why he was drawn to the fiddle and not some other instrument, Cleveland said, I heard it said (the sound of the fiddle) is the closest thing to a human voice. Plus, Cleveland said, (The fiddle) has no frets so you can slide notes and create any kind of sound you want. Plus, Cleveland said, Orange Blossom Special had a lot to do with his love for the fiddle. I was just fascinated with that song. Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper had its genesis back in 2000, explained its titular leader. Cleveland was playing with Rhonda Vincent and The Rage at the time with Audie Blaylock (an earlier member of Flamekeeper). The two musicians were participating in a bluegrass festival where the band Blue Highway, featuring Tom Adams, was also on the bill. That night of Rhonda Vincent s performance, Cleveland said Audie suggested he and Cleveland jam with Adams. Cleveland said Adams was up for it, but he said he had about 30 minutes till he needed to get on the bus with Blue Highway. They quickly found a bass player, Jesse Moore, and the jam began. It was just one of those things that worked out, said Cleveland of that jam session. We got our instruments out... (and) it was some of the best music ever played. All four of us heard the timing (of the music) the same way, said Cleveland. They realized, said Cleveland, With this energy, if it could be caught on record, it would be killer. Cleveland said that version of the band recorded the first album of Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper, Flame Keeper. In time, the group evolved into Adams on vocals and guitar, Charlie Cushman on vocals and banjos ( one of the best ), Marshall Wilborn on vocals and bass, and Jesse Brock on vocals and mandolin plus Cleveland. We all five really like the traditional blue grass music, said Cleveland. We try to pay tribute to the legends and add our own thing to it. In concert, said Cleveland, the group likes to mix up traditional tunes with some of their own material. And Cleveland promised the band will be playing material from the group s new album, Fired Up, which is officially released on March 29. The new album has a lot of original material, written by various band members. We wanted to do songs that would please the fans of Flamekeeper, the things we had done before, said Cleveland. But the band also wanted to try some new things. Some stuff that s not too far out there, but it may be just a bit different than what people expect. It s going to have something for everybody, said Cleveland of Fired Up. We re real excited about it. I can t wait for it to come out. Fans in Connecticut also may get an early shot at buying the record, said Cleveland. Although he couldn t promise, Cleveland said band may have some early copies of Fired Up to sell at the show in Hamden. Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper perform Saturday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Society Hall, 700 Hartford Tpke., Hamden. The concert is presented by GuitartownCT.com with the support of the Neighborhood Music School of New Haven. For more information, go to GuitartownCT.com. STORE CLOSING SALE! HALF-PRICE SALE NOW! From March 23 to April 5: Hardcover books for $3! Trade paperbacks for $2! Mass-market paperbacks for $1! LPS $3! Thank you for your business! CDS $3! 311 East Street, Plainville, CT (860) Mon-Fri 10:30am-5:30pm Sat 10:00am-6:00pm Sun 11:00am-5:00pm BANDSFriday & Saturday B L MOON UE BLUE MOON 1169 Meriden-Wtby Tpk RTE 322 Exit 28 off I84 PLANTSVILLE Pub Menu OPEN 7 DAYS BlueMoonSouthington.com WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY K $ ARAOKE 2 Domestic Drafts FRIDAY NIGHT 3/18 HOLDEN TRUELOVE SATURDAY 3/19 CAROL & THE NIGHT CATS SUNDAY OPEN MIKE NITE 6-9 PM Drink Specials MO N - F RI Happy Hour 4-7 Daily Drink Specials Home of the $1.50 DRAFTS All Day Every Day Homemade Daily Lunch Specials! Kitchen Hours: 11:30 am - Midnight 202 Newell Street, Southington, CT WITH THIS COUPON Book Your Party Here And Birthday Child is Free! WITH THIS COUPON First Game Up to 4 People. 177 Farmington Ave, Bristol Go to our website for more specials! Expire Free! Limit one coupon per visit. 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20 20 To advertise, call (860) Southington Scene Middle School hoops On Friday, March 11, teams from DePaolo and Kennedy middle schools competed at a Unified Sports basketball tournament at Farmington High School. Special athletes partnered with classmates in a two-game competition against teams from throughout the state. Photos by JOHN GORALSKI At left, the Olympic torch signals the start of the Unfied Sports/Special Olympic event. Above, the DePaolo team makes its entrance into the Farmington gym during opening ceremonies. At left, Matt Graham makes a long jump shot during a Kennedy halfcourt possession. At left, DePaolo s Courtnie Roy drives toward the basket. At right, Alexandra Amarosa cheers her first score during a DePaolo contest. Below, Ryan Kozienski drives toward the basket for an easy lay-up. At left, Ryan Goldstein drives past a defender during a DePaolo possession. At left, James Danielson leads the charge during a Kennedy possession. At right, Andrea DeFeo leads a Kennedy fast break.

21 To advertise, call (860) Bristol teen walks the runway at NY fashion week By MIKE CHAIKEN EDITIONS EDITOR In the front of the Metropolitan Pavilion on 18th Street in New York recently, the photographers and videographers were lining up their equipment on the risers. The public relations staff, all dressed in black, were labeling the chairs, figuring out who got front row status and who would all line up behind them. The scene makers, fashionistas, and celebrities were stepping in to the space, waiting to be seen and photographed. It was the night of the big Indashio fashion show during fashion week. The flamboyant designer and stylist was set to unveil his Fall 2011 collection. And backstage, a Bristol teen was getting ready to make her debut on the New York Fashion Week catwalk. Marisa Barnard, 18, was recently selected ELLEgirl New Faces Model Search finalist. Mindy DiCrosta, CEO of Cynamin Olive Productions and co founder of ELLEGirl Model Search said the program is so much more than just a model search. It was designed to empower and inspire young women to be all they can be in any career and in life. It s girls like Marissa who have an excellent work ethic and are truly beautiful inside and out that make this such a pleasure. As part of her prize for reaching the finals, Marisa was given the chance to walk in the Indashio show, which featured celebrity appearances from Olympics swimmer Johnny Weir and reality television star (and ex-member of Danity Kane) Aubrey O Brien. Marisa also met with the designer and agents, and received tips from a runway coach. Backstage, Marisa was immersed in the process of getting ready for a New York Fashion show. She sat as make-up artists and hair stylists prepped her and transformed her. If you weren t told Marisa was an ELLEgirl New Faces winner, you wouldn t have been able to tell she was any different from the rest of the talent back stage. It was amazing, said Marisa of the experience in the Indashio show. It s hard to believe that my dream of walking down the runway during fashion week actually came true. Being a part of the experience last Wednesday gave the teen some perspective about the industry. I did not realize all of the hard work and preparation that goes into having a fashion show. I certainly respect all who helped Indashio s show be a huge success. As part of her day in NYC, Marisa was able to sit down with the designer himself. I had such a great time with Indashio. He was very fun and such a sweet man. Throughout the day, he continuously gave the models tips on how to walk down the runway. He told us to be fierce, show attitude and have fun. Besides Indashio s advice, Marisa said, the runway coach s tips were very helpful. This was one of my first fashion shows and walking on the catwalk is extremely different than walking in everyday life. Believe it or not, it s much more complex. Before she stepped out on the runway, Marisa s biggest concern was tripping. I was very nervous (However) when it was my turn to walk the nerves went away and I told myself to just have fun. The models she met also were helpful, friendly and outgoing, said Marisa. They gave me advice on how to walk and what expressions to make on the runway. I definitely made a few new friends. As part of the day, Marisa also met with a few modeling agents. I may be signing with a couple of agencies, said Marisa. As part of their advice, Marisa said, They let me know that this industry is tough. But to never give up. They also told me to stay in school. As for meeting the celebrities in the show, I didn t even know that they were in the show until I started getting my hair and make up done. I couldn t believe it. They were all very nice and it was a great experience meeting them. For more information on the ELLEGirl Model SEarch go to modelingtherightway.com and look for new 2011 promotions and the new 2011 spokesperson, Disney star Tiffany Thornton from Sonny with a Chance. Our Fashions From the top left clockwise, Marisa Barnard of Bristol sits with a makeup artist at the Indashio fashion show in New York last Wednesday; Marisa walks the runway and pauses for the fashion press; Marisa has her hair prepped for the show; Olympic swimmer Johnny Weir, left, designer Indashio, and singer Aubrey O Brien step up for the finale at the fashion show at the Metropolitan Pavilion. PHOTOS by MIKE CHAIKEN 21

22 22 To advertise, call (860) Keep spring workout mania going year round (ARA) - As the weather gets warmer, people think about getting outside and becoming active again. Warm weather and longer days provide the natural motivation that many folks need, but it also can be challenging getting back into the swing of things if the weather has kept you from pursuing a consistent workout regimen. So as you plot out your plan to regain your form, think about mixing workouts into your routine that will help you remain active throughout the year so you can avoid the same difficult transition next year. Here are a few tips to follow as you construct an exercise plan that can be continued even after the good weather passes: Consider a gym membership. While you might prefer to enjoy the outdoors during workouts when it s nice, a health club can offer the same opportunities when the weather isn t great, whether it s the summer or winter. Many clubs have groups such as running clubs, which provide some extra motivation because the group workouts are scheduled at a specific time. Fitness instructors at the clubs may also be able to help you formulate a plan for staying active throughout the year. Check to see if your health People are getting well and staying that way because of the gentle care they receive at Grant Chiropractic Health Center, LLC. Look for our offer at or call insurance provider offers a discount on club memberships, as many providers do with the condition that you visit the club regularly. Bring the gym home. While gyms provide a year-round location for exercising, finding the time and motivation to make it there can present an extra barrier. That s why for some, buying a piece of workout equipment for the home is a better and more convenient alternative. Today s home workout equipment has come a long way from the flimsy home treadmills of years ago, with swim spas representing some of the most innovative tools. Using wave propulsion technologies, swim spas offer the same benefits as a pool without taking up nearly the space at a fraction of the cost. World champion swimmer Michael Phelps, who will be incorporating the use of a swim spa in his own training, provided input on the design of a signature line of swim spas for Master Spas. Not everybody has access to a community pool or their local pool is only open for a few months out of the year. A swim spa provides another way for people to access water, whether it s just for fun or for exercise, year round, says Phelps. Look for workouts that can be completed in a small indoor space Meriden-Waterbury Tpk Milldale, CT Ph: (860) Fax: (860) For example, yoga and Pilates workouts offer extensive physical benefits, yet only require a little bit of open floor space. Learn by enrolling in classes or through videos. Other beneficial stationary circuit workouts comprised of body-weight exercises like pushups and sit-ups don t require much space either. An added bonus of using a swim spa is you can also use it for these types of land-based workouts and water aerobics. To learn more about swim spas and the benefits they can provide, visit michaelphelpsswimspa.co m. Being able to stay active all year ultimately means finding a routine that continues to be interesting and fits into your daily life. So, as you figure out how you are going to get back into shape this spring, try some new things that you can potentially continue through the winter and see what works best for you. MEDICAL SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT 234 Main Street Farmington, CT (860) Wheelchairs Bath safety Walkers Lift Chairs Incontinence Surgical hosiery Hospital beds Power scooters/wheelchairs Sport braces and supports Surgical dressings DIRECTIONS: On Route 10 between Ms. Porter s School and the Silo Restaurant. QUALITY IS OUR PRIORITY Accepting HUSKY & Most Major Insurances. Convenient Payment Plans For Self Paying Customers. WE OFFER New state of the art equipment Digital xrays (less radiation) Xbox games/plasma TV in the waiting room Watch your favorite movie/cartoon during treatment on our TVs Dr. Jamie Motyka 710 King Street, Bristol, CT Call for an Appointment Today! TINY (8469) Visit us on the web: We understand and appreciate the challenges of caring for yourselves and loved ones, while maintaining a degree of normalcy and dignity in your personal life. Our companions and homemakers are available 24/7 to assist with these challenges. Our network of medically trained, and strictly credentialed professionals are a phone call away. Whether you are recovering from surgery, treating chronic illness, or just need a break from your current care taking responsibilities, speak with our team of dedicated care coordinators, and get the help you need and cant afford to be without. Your Health matters too! Patient Care Assistance Live-In Companions Nursing Care Physical Therapy Transportation Adult Day Care Respite Care Light Housekeeping Errands, Laundry and Most of all... All caretakers are thoroughly verified and credentialed. David DiNeno President Piece of Mind Call Joan Zukauskas; RN, BSN Director of Clinical Services Come check our caring staff at our new location Full time Hygienist on Staff Implant Placement Restoration & Maintenance FREE EXAM New patient only with appointment Family Dental Practice of Southington Come check out our state of the art facility 248 N. Main St. Southington M-W 8-5, Tues. & Thurs. 9-6, Fri. 8-4 Now Accepting Applications for One Bedroom Apartments! A Senior Apartment Community for people 62 and over. Recent Upgrades Rent Based on Income No Security Deposit 24-7 Emergency Maintenance Service Active Community Public Transportation Bus Stop GAYLORD TOWERS APARTMENTS 55 Gaylord Street, Bristol, CT For Info or Schedule a Tour Call Linda or Carmen The Bristol Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action

23 To advertise, call (860) Spring allergy sufferers: Be wary of treatment myths (ARA) - Knowing fact from fiction can make the difference between misery and relief for millions of spring allergy sufferers. People often sneeze and wheeze through spring if they use misinformation to manage their condition, says allergist Dr. Myron Zitt, past president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). But no one should suffer from spring allergies. Knowing the facts, getting a proper diagnosis and the right treatment allows allergy patients to feel good all season long. The ACAAI - whose allergist members specialize in treating allergies and asthma - dispels several common spring allergy myths. Myth: Over-the-counter (OTC, or nonprescription) oral antihistamines are just as effective as prescription medicines in controlling a stuffy nose. Fact: OTC antihistamines can help control some allergy symptoms, but they have little effect on relieving a stuffy nose or the inflammation that often occurs with allergies. They also can cause drowsiness. Allergists can prescribe more effective anti-inflammatory medications as well as find the source of suffering, rather than just treat the symptoms. Myth: OTC decongestant nasal sprays are addictive. Fact: OTC decongestant nasal sprays are not technically addictive. However, people who overuse them may think they are because they need more and more to get relief from the congestion. To combat this, OTC decongestant nasal sprays shouldn t be used more than three days in a row. Also, an allergist can prescribe a nasal spray containing a steroid, which may be more effective and is not addictive. Myth: Allergy shots require too much time and are more expensive than taking medicine to relieve symptoms. Fact: Depending on how bothersome the allergies are, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may actually save money and improve quality of life. In fact, a recent study showed that immunotherapy reduced total health care costs in children with allergic rhinitis (hay fever) by one-third, and prescription costs by 16 percent. The shots are similar to a vaccine, exposing the recipient to a tiny bit of allergen at a time, to build up a tolerance to it. As tolerance increases, allergy symptoms will be 23 significantly lessened and may even go away. That can save sick days and money spent at the drug store. Myth: A blood test is the best way to diagnose allergies. Fact: Actually, skin tests are more sensitive than blood tests. In skin allergy testing, the skin on the inside of the arms or the back is pricked with a tiny bit of an allergen. If the person is allergic, the site will become red and swollen within 20 minutes and usually clear in an hour or two. Skin testing is very safe when performed by an allergist, even in infants and young children. To learn more about allergies and asthma, visit ief.org. FREE WEIGHT LOSS & WELLNESS INFORMATION Brigitte lost 35 lb s in 3 months Dr. Carol C. Grant, D.C. CERTIFIED MEDIFAST HEALTH ADVISOR Complimentary Consultation Available at Your Convenience CONTACT: Contact Dr. Carol Grant 1601 Meriden-Wtby Tpk, Milldale, CT Doctor Recommended, Clinically Proven. Soy-based Weight Loss Program. Eat six times per day drcarol@megahits.com TIRED OF ASKING OTHERS TO REPEAT...MAYBE IT S TIME TO HAVE YOUR HEARING CHECKED Major Brand Digital Hearing Aids Repairs On All Makes & Models Ear Molds Batteries Accessories CASH FOR CLUNKERS! Up to $ Trade-Ins 461 N. Main St., Bristol, Connecticut Gastroenterology Institute Dr. Salam Zakko is executive director of the CT GI Institute and author of recent article in prestigious New England Journal of Medicine on new treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Clinical Research Specialized GI procedures Esophageal Manometry 24 Hour Ph And Impedance Studies Capsule Endoscopy Breath Testing For - Lactose Intolerance - Bacterial Overgrowth - Helicobacter Pylori CT GI Institute Located at: Bristol Hospital Brewster Road, Bristol, CT

24 24 To advertise, call (860) SHS swimming & diving...page 25 Sports Our Athletes Boys basketball photos...page 26 YMCA bench press photos...page 29 Anybody s game Knights fall to Holy Cross in a hard-fought second round battle By JOHN GORALSKI SPORTS WRITER Mike Mallory exploded from the opening whistle with 11 points in the first quarter and 31 in the game. Holy Cross stormed across the basketball court to take an eight point lead at the first break and a double digit lead at the start of the second quarter. Basketball On Wednesday, March 9, it looked like No. 13 Southington would fade quietly into the postseason sunset as the fourth seeded Holy Cross stamped out a commanding lead in the second round of the Class LL tournament. Then, the second quarter began, and Southington counted with a run of their own. More photos, pg. 26 [Holy Cross] was knocking down shots. Mallory is an incredible player, and he s going to get my all-state vote for sure, said Blue Knight basketball coach Bob Lasbury. Once we were able to ride that energy and make our own push, we came into halftime and felt really confident that we could put up points and play with these guys. Jordan Chapman It was a hard-fought contest. It could have gone either way. Holy Cross is a good basketball team, but I think we showed ourselves well. Bob Lasbury, SHS boys basketball coach paced the Southington comeback. A free throw, led to a lay-up, which led to four consecutive three pointers from both sides of the arc. Southington trailed, 26-16, at the start of Class LL Tournament Second Round March 9 Holy Cross 72 Southington 68 the second quarter, but the Knights had pulled within four when the dust had settled on the half. I couldn t be more proud of their efforts, said Lasbury. It was a hardfought contest. It could have gone either way. Holy Cross is a good basketball team, but I think we showed ourselves well. Less than two minutes into the second half, Sal Romano tied the game twice at the free throw line. Tyler Dube gave the Knights their first lead with 1:27 remaining in the third quarter. The team traded baskets down the stretch, but neither program led by more than four points in the second half. Chapman finished with 27 points. Romano collected 17 points with 13 rebounds. Dube added 18 points, six assists, and four steals. Southington trailed by just two points in the final 30 seconds, but fell to the Crusaders, I was very proud of my team s efforts. This is a very difficult gymnasium to play in. It s a great atmosphere to play, and they came back strong, Lasbury said. The game could have gone either way, but Holy Cross is a terrific basketball team, and I congratulate them. JOHN GORALSKI Tyler Dube drives past a Holy Cross defender during a Class LL second round contest on Wednesday, March 9 in Waterbury. The loss marks the end of Southington s winter campaign. The Knights finished their season with a 16-8 record and a 2-2 performance in postseason play. It was the best record in Lasbury s coaching Florian scores for Team CT at regional race Knight ski racing coach Troy By JOHN GORALSKI Schinkel said that it was too bad for SPORTS WRITER his junior star. Ablanket of fog creeped I think that GS is Austin s down the New strongest point, so it was unfortunate that we didn t get to see what We're very happy that we're going to get Hamphire slopes, and officials waved off Sunday s competition. he could do there, said Schinkel, him for another season, In a ski season that has been but 35th in the slalom is pretty assaulted by winter storms, this and I think we're going to see good. He was competing against seemed a fitting end to Austin kids from all over the Northeast. even better results from him. Florian s junior year. There were kids from as far away as Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and all I think that this is only the beginning. Ski Racing those places up North like Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. He did excellent. On Saturday, March 12, Florian was the third fastest Florian fought his way to 35th skier on Team CT s first day of Troy Schinkel, place in a field of 112 skiers in the competition. He finished his first SHS ski racing coach slalom portion of the Eastern High run in 42.9 seconds, and pared off School Championships at Cannon Mountain in Franconia, NH. On Sunday, he never got a chance to compete. With the fog and conditions, more than four seconds in his second run. Florian finished both heats in 1: It was enough to lift Team CT to fourth place in the surprised at Florian s improvement throughout the day. He s really with reading the course, knowing where to turn, and getting his skis Austin Florian officials were forced to cancel the GS slalom race, and Blue field of 10 all-star teams. Schinkel said that he wasn t good, so that s what I d expect, he said. He s got so much experience See SKI RACING, page 33 See BOYS, page 28

25 To advertise, call (860) Our Athletes 25 Swimmers dive into the postseason Connors places in top 20 at diving competition, Smigelski sets 2 school records at LL qualifier By JOHN GORALSKI SPORTS WRITER Evan Tuttle felt like an actor on the red carpet with the excitement buzzing around him at the Class LL qualifying meet. Powerhouse coaches approached him to talk about his swimmers. A swirl of compliments came from every direction. On Saturday, March 12, the Blue Knights swimmers grabbed hold of the spotlight and never let go. Swimming It was a very good day for us, and it was pretty exciting, Tuttle said about the buzz his team created at the meet. I had several coaches coming up to me. There was the Westhill coach and the Stamford coach. They asked me who the heck we were and where we came from. It was pretty exciting. It has been years since the Knights have made such a splash at the first postseason contest. Southington claimed one meet champion, four top eight finishes, and nine qualifying scores for the upcoming Class LL finals. I knew we were going to be doing something special. I just didn t know to what extent, Tuttle said. Whether they realize it or not, today they did something incredibly special. The best part is that we re not even done yet. We still have two more meets left to improve. The postseason wave began on Thursday at the Diving trials and finals when Ryan Connors survived two cuts to advance to the final level of competition. He scored points after 10 dives and finished 19th in a field of top divers. JOHN GORALSKI Mike Smigelski set new school records at the Class LL qualifying meet with a win in the 100 freestyle (47.26) and a second place finish in the 50 freestyle (21.4). That got the ball rolling for us, absolutely, said Tuttle. After the first five dives, I was confident that he made the cut. After eight dives, I wasn t sure. They call your name over the announcements to collect your dive scores, and that means your day is over. When they didn t call his name, we knew he was in. His parents were even more excited than me or the diving coach, but Ryan was just sort of confident. He knew he was in, but that s him. His finish was even more impressive considering that he had never performed some of his dives before in competition. His repertoire included three inward dives, as many as two and a half somersaults, a few back flips, and a twist. He gets on the board and throws his dives, especially the ones that he s never performed at meets Whether they realize it or not, today they did something incredibly special. The best part is that we re not even done yet. We still have two more meets left to improve. Evan Tuttle, SHS boys swim coach before, said Tuttle. He s only performed the inward double once before in a meet. There were some other inverse dives that he threw in at finals that he s only performed in practice and never at meets. It s just because he s so talented that he s able to do those at a state meet. His performance set the momentum for his teammates a few days later. Southington advanced to the finals in all but two events, and even those set a new standard for the Knights. I wanted everybody Blue Knights at the Class LL finals The Knights qualified for the Class LL finals in 9 events. Fastest Heats Mike Smigelski 50 freestyle (#5) 100 freestyle (#4) 200 freestyle relay Colin Magaro, Jesse Cooney, Dylan Figueiredo, Mike Smigelski (#8) 200 medley relay Jesse Cooney, Mike Smigelski, Vladislav Kiveliyk, Colin Magaro Other Qualifyers Jesse Cooney 200 Individual Medley, 100 backstroke Colin Magaro 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle 400 freestyle relay Joe Taglia, Niels Thomsen, Bryan Adie, Vladislav Kiveliyk who was swimming in qualifiers to at the very least advance a heat and be in finals. We all did that, said Tuttle. The only ones who didn t advance to finals as individuals were Vlad [Kiveliyk] and Niels [Thomsen], but both of them had best times and both of them jumped up spots from where they were seeded. It was good. The Knights pared a total of seconds off their qualifying scores in 11 events. Mike Smigelski paced the attack, setting school records with the fastest time in the 100 freestyle (47.26) and earning the second seed at the finals in the 50 freestyle (21.4). Smigelski went on to partner with Jesse Cooney, Kiveliyk, and Colin Magaro to finish eighth overall in the 200 medley relay (1:44.12) and teamed with Colin Magaro, Cooney, and Dylan Figueiredo to place eighth overall in the 200 freestyle relay (1:31.89). JOHN GORALSKI Blue Knight diver Ryan Connors led the charge into the state competition with a 19th place finish at the Class LL diving competition in Hamden on Thursday, March 10. All four times secured a spot in the fastest heat at the finals, and that s important as Southington tries to extend the postseason. I told the guys going into the meet that I wanted that top heat in the 200 medley and the 200 See BOYS SWIMMING, page 27 Sunday, March 20th 9 am 5 pm Aqua Turf Country Club Mulberry St., Southington, CT Dir: off I-84 West, Exit 29 Left Hand Exit off I-84 East, Exit 28 ADMISSION: $3.00 ADULTS, UNDER 12 FREE For more information call (978) OFF - DISCOUNT COUPON Voted Best Pizza in Bristol by Bristol Residents and Best Pizza in Town by Bristol Press Readers Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials 240 Park St. (Rte 72) Bristol VOTED BEST Italian Restaurant in Bristol THIN OR THICK CRUST BRICK OVEN PIZZA Seafood Steaks Chops Pasta OUR ENTIRE DINNER MENU IS AVAILABLE FOR TAKE-OUT! Closed Mondays 50% OFF LUNCH OR DINNER With This Coupon Dine In or Take Out Food Only Buy 1 Lunch or Dinner & Receive the Second of Equal or Lesser Value at 50% Off. Entrees Only. Not Valid with Other Offers. Expires 3/24/11 Homestyle Italian Cooking... Like Mom Used to Make! $2.00 Budweiser Bottle During Happy Hour Bar Only PICK UP ONLY 2 LARGE PIZZAS 1 ITEM $ Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Expires 3/24/11 Catering & Private Party Room Available $ 3 00 OFF ANY PURCHASE OVER $15 With This Coupon Dine In or Take Out Food Only Not Valid with Other Offers. Expires 3/24/11 SCRAPBOOKING MEMORIES All Day Crop-A-Thon! MAY 7 9 AM-9 PM Wolcott Activities & Learning Center Next to Wolcott Ambulance Behind Frisbie School 48 Todd Road, WOLCOTT Join Us for a Day o f Fun & Relaxation Sign up at: scrapbookingmemoriesevents.com $ 40 includes: Morning Coffee, Tea & Pastry Lunch & Dinner, Door Prizes & Raffles VENDORS: Creative Memories Stampin Up The Crop Shop Close to My Heart Scrapbooking & Cardmaking CLASSES will be available through our Vendors for a minimal fee.

26 26 To advertise, call (860) Southington Sports Scene It s March Madness The Southington boys basketball advanced in the postseason for the first time since The Knights rushed past Cheshire, 57-53, and nearly toppled No. 5 Holy Cross in a road loss in the second round of the Class LL tournament. Photos by JOHN GORALSKI At left, Coach Bob Lasbury plans strategy during a Southington timeout. Above, members of the Knight Krew cheer their favorite team. Above, team statistician Steve Daniels watches the action at midcourt. Below, Alex Borofsky attacks the rim during the Cheshire win. At left, Ted Shaw practices his lay-ups during the pregame warm-ups at Holy Cross. At right, cheerleaders rally the crowd during a timeout. Above, Jordan Chapman makes a fadeaway jump shot during Southington s win over Cheshire. At left, Evan Nyerick fights off a Ram defender in the paint. Below, Sal Romano bounds onto the court before the first round tip-off. Above, Billy Queen drives toward the basket during Southington s first round home game.

27 To advertise, call (860) Athletes of the Week Kayla Nati Southington High School gymnastics Jordan Chapman Southington High School boys basketball Class: Freshman Class: Senior Reason: Scored points on the vault to finish 14th overall at the New England Championship meet. Reason: Scored 38 points in two Class LL tournament games last week with 27 points against Holy Cross. Kayla Nati launched herself off the vault in a jackknifed spin as she tumbled through the air into a perfect landing. On Saturday, March 12, the Southington freshman was the last local standing. She took on a field of upperclassmen at the New England meet in Milford and held her own with a I think that this gives her a window into her future, said Lady Knight gymnastics coach Byron Knox. She's been around gymnastics long enough to know what good gymnastics are and what it takes to be at a competitive level. She's heard so much about the high school. She couldn't wait to get up here to be on the team. Nati made the most of the opportunity. At the final high school meet, Nati was the sole representative of her program and her town. After a one year absence from the regional competition, Nati s 14th place Tsukahara pike vault is a sign of things to come. Being a freshman? That's a big deal, said Knox. Now, she's a part of it. She's got three years in front of her, and she's going to be able to dictate how good she'll be. There were sophomores, juniors, and seniors, but she was competing with that class. One day, she's going to be that dominant junior or senior. Wait. You'll see. For her outstanding athletic accomplishments, Nati is our highlighted female athlete of the week. Jordan Chapman had a wide grin when the basketball bounced into his hands late in the third quarter. He smiled at the Holy Cross defender, faked a move, and looped a perfect shot into the rim. At the start of the second quarter, the Knights trailed by 10 points. Then, Chapman began to have fun. That was huge, but he has that type of ability, Blue Knight coach Bob Lasbury said about his star senior. The tough part is that we won't be able to see him in a Blue Knight uniform again. Chapman turned into a one-man wrecking ball, scoring 15 straight points for the Knights, including four consectuve threepointers during a 17-5 Southington rally. Holy Cross s double-digit lead vanished, and the Knights were in striking distance at the half. You talk about the athleticism of Holy Cross and the players that they have, but he clearly came in and equaled that athleticism, said Lasbury. Some of the things that he can do on the basketball court, you just can't coach. It's just natural athleticism, and it's fun to watch. Chapman finished with 27 points in the game and 38 points in two Class LL contests. One thing was sure. Chapman saved his best for last. For his outstanding athletic accomplishments, Chapman is our highlighted male athlete of the week. TOP FEMALE PERFORMANCES Noelle Raymond, Weight lifter: Bench pressed pounds to capture the women s masters title at the annual YMCA bench press contest. Christine Colella, Weight lifter: Bench pressed pounds to capture the women s open title at the annual YMCA bench press contest. The week ahead in Southington sports... FRIDAY SATURDAY TOP MALE PERFORMANCES Mike Smigelski, SHS boys swim team: Set school records in the 50 freestyle (21.4) and the 100 freestyle (47.26) at the Class LL qualifying meet on March 12. Sal Romano, SHS boys basketball team: Scored 34 points with 26 rebounds and five blocked shots in two Class LL tournament games last week. Unforeseen schedule changes or weather conditions may cause a change in the schedule. You may call (860) , ext. 425 to check the status of a contest. For afternoon contests, call after 1:30 p.m. and for evening contests, call after 4:30 p.m. MONDAY No games scheduled. TUESDAY Boys Swimming at CT State Open Yale University, New Haven). WEDNESDAY No games scheduled. THURSDAY No games scheduled. No games scheduled. No games scheduled. Boys Swimming: Knights poised for Class LL finals From page 25 freestyle, and we got it. That means we had to jump up three places in both races, and we did that, said Tuttle. That final heat has the ones that place, the ones that medal. If you re in that top heat, you can t swim out of it Class LL is by far the strongest division in the state compared to Classes L, M, and S. If you re in that top heat or close to that top heat going into finals, you re pretty much guaranteed that you re going to the state opens. In addition, Southington qualified for the finals in five other races. Cooney advanced in the 200 individual medley (2:09.24) and the 100 backstroke (1:01.77). Magaro just missed the fastest heat in the 50 freestyle (22.37) and the 100 freestyle (49.73). Joe Taglia, Thomsen, Bryan Adie, and Kiveliyk advanced to the finals in the 400 freestyle relay (3:39.01). None will be in contention for medals at the final meet at Wesleyan University in Middletown, but each will have one more chance to secure an at-large berth for the state open championships on Saturday, March 18. We have one more day of taper practice on Monday. Then, we re going to be stepping into the pool with faster kids, said Tuttle. Wesleyan is a fast pool. It s the intensity of a finals meet. I guarantee that you ll see some more drops in our times. There s plenty left in the tank for these guys. The finals are scheduled at Wesleyan on Tuesday, after this article went to press. Those that advance to the state open meet will travel to Yale University in New Haven on Saturday, March 13. Competition begins at 2:30 p.m. Tuttle is enjoying the ride. There hasn t been a showing like this in a while for Southington. They re turning some heads, and we re getting noticed, he said. Those coaches that came and approached me noticed that Southington is back on the map in terms of swimming and diving. Hopefully we re going to continue that over the next couple of years. $20.00 OFF Tax preparation WE KNOW ALL THE LATEST TAX LAW CHANGES 2 LOCATIONS BRISTOL PLAZA (Rt 6) TERRYVILLE (next to IGA) Direct Toll Free No Appointment Necessary Offer valid on tax preparation fees only. Does not apply to financial products or other services. Not to be combined with any other offers. Must present at time of tax prep. Independently owned and operated. EXPIRES: 12/30/11. COUPON CODE: Z6FNG Keeping Families Warm since Riverside Avenue Bristol, CT (860)

28 28 To advertise, call (860) Parks & Rec Men s Basketball Over 35 League Capitol Lunch 80, SPD 63 MARCH 13 Capitol Lunch (6-2): Art Ververis scored 24 points, and Chris Maran added 12 points in the victory. SPD (4-4): Jeff Dobratz paced the police with 26 points. Jim McGettrick added 12 points, and Phil Lamb scored 10. Haman s 46, Rebelution 41 MARCH 13 Haman s (3-4): Josh Angelillo scored 11 points, and Wayne Buck added 10 points to the victory. Rebelution (0-7): Rob Branson scored 12 points, and Jason Dow added 11 points in the loss. Truck Kings 76, Capitol Lunch 60 MARCH 13 Truck Kings (7-1): Mike Dukes scored 26 points. Calvin Riddle added 25 points, and Lawrance Stuckley had 12 points. Capitol Lunch (6-3): Art Ververis scored 23 points. Nick Davis added 11 points, and Mike Serafino had 10 points in the loss. Sonic 71, Rebelution 45 MARCH 13 Sonic (4-4): Mike O Keefe scored 18 points. Steve Wright added 12 points. Bob Okula and Chris Martin scored 11 points apiece. Rebelution (0-8): Rob Branson scored 11 points, and Jason Dow added 10 points in the loss. Under 35 League Stanley St Auto 38, Southington Generals 36 MARCH 13 Stanley St Auto (4-4): Jim Vesci powered his team to victory with 10 points Southington Generals (2-6): Pat Mulholland, Alan Jagos, and Scott Mundo contributed in the losing effort. Crystal Restoration 60, Thomson Financial 59 (3OT) MARCH 13 Crystal Restoration (6-2): Mark Lampkin scored 14 points in the triple overtime victory. Brian Zaccagnino added 12 points. Frank Vigliotti scored 11 points, and Gary Burdette had 10 points. BERKSHIRE OIL 25 Stafford Ave, Bristol, CT NEW 4 SENIOR DISCOUNT Automatic Metered Delivery 20 Day Credit Accounts Emergency Burner Service Burner Plans Service Contracts We Welcome New Customers Thomson Financial (6-2): Mark Egidio and Tom Szandrocha scored 17 points apiece in the losing effort. Todd Meier added 13 points. Allstate 60, Brown & Wimler 52 MARCH 13 Allstate (6-2): Mark Pooler scored 18 points, and Jeff Kelly added 14 points to the victory. Brown & Wimler (0-8): Doug Napoli scored 24 points, and Erin Chiaro added 11 points in the loss. Southington Youth Basketball Varsity Division 76ers 61, Wizards 45 FEB 28 76ers (7-2): Matt Dube scored 12 points. Mike Cannata added 11 points, and Steve Damboise scored 10. Aaron Kalkowski (9) and Brian Thompson (7) contributed. Wizards (4-4): Randall Ledet scored eight points. Joe Pesce, Mike Raczynski, Joe Sullivan, and John Giovannucci scored six points apiece. Trevor Dalia (4) contributed. Bulls 51, Celtics 43 FEB 28 Bulls (4-6): Aaron Douglas scored 17 points. Ryan Masters and A FULL SERVICE COMPANY 100 gallon deliveries available Look for the daily price online CALL FOR CURRENT PRICE Sports Briefs SUBMITTED Vasil is top defender Former Blue Knight lacrosse player Eric Vasil was named Defensive Player of the Week in the Little East Conference. Vasil, a two-time national leader in ground balls, has won 79.7 percent (55-of-69) of his faceoffs during Eastern CT State University s 2-1 start. Vasil set a school record with 26 ground balls during a victory over Babson College. Jared DeGumbia added 10 points apiece. Kyle Macri (5) and Colin Freer (5) contributed. Celtics (2-8): Andrew Walowski scored 22 points. Mike Morley (8), Steve Feeny (5), and Dylan Slade (4) contributed. Nets 59, Cavaliers 50 FEB 28 Nets (3-5): Matt Russo scored 16 points. Brett Suzi scored 14 points, and Zack Kluggerman added 10 points. PJ Vigneault (8) and Andrew Goralski (5) contributed. Cavaliers (4-5): Mike Rhodd scored 18 points. Matt O Connor added 10 points. Andrew Stearns (5), Chad Mehmel (4), and Matt Macchi (4) contributed. Knicks 74, Lakers 56 FEB 28 Knicks (7-1): Dave Nichols scored 18 points. Enjam Mullaj added 13 points, and Nick Gothberg scored 10 points. Izac Montz (6), Nick Sciota (6), Tim Langland (6), and James DiNello (5) contributed. Lakers (5-4): Luke Mauro scored 27 points. Brian Kaminsky added 12 points. Fred Chua (7), Donny Balsome (6), and Carmine Mennone (4) contributed. Warriors 57, Wizards 51 MARCH 2 Warriors (2-7): Alex Derisi scored 25 points, and Kevin Twerago added 13 points. Jake Cardinal (7) and Chris Amnott (6) contributed. Wizards (4-5): Joe Pesce and John Giovannucci scored 13 points apiece. Trevor Dalia (7), Randall Ledet (6), and Joe Sullivan (6) contributed. Lakers 47, Sonics 38 MARCH 2 Lakers (6-4): Luke Mauro scored 25 points. Fred Chua (9), Byron Bey (5), and Anthony Nauss (4) contributed. Sonics (3-7): Tyler Floyd scored 10 points. Kenny Arnold (7), Steve Moffiolini (6), Mike Robling (4), Zach Niles (4), and Tyler Mayo (4) contributed. 76ers 71, Nets 39 MARCH 2 76ers (8-2): Brian Thompson scored 19 Is Landscaping a Shear Terror? FREE ESTIMATES SPRING IS NEAR NOW ACCEPTING NEW ACCOUNTS Residential Commercial 10% SENIOR DISCOUNT Spring Clean Up Lawn Dethatching Weekly Mowing Flower Bed Design Trimming Sand Removal Gutter Cleaning Mulching Specializing in Retaining Walls Walks Patios (all types) Cutter s Edge Lawn Care, LLC Owner, Matt Tubbs Fully Insured Lic # points, and George Dibble added 17 points. Steve Damboise scored 12 points, and Adam Kalkowski had 11. Matt Szajor scored 10 points in the balanced attack. Nets (3-6): Brett Susi scored 12 points. Matt Russo (9), PJ Vigneault (6), Zack Kliggerman (4), and Mark Costanzo (4) contributed. Thunder 61, Knicks 52 MARCH 2 Thunder (9-0): Corbin Garry scored 22 points, and Dave Dominello added 16 points. Bryan Wilcox scored 11 points. Connor Butkiewicz (6) and Vinny Romano (4) contributed. Knicks (7-2): Dave Nichols scored 20 points. Enjam Mullaj added 11 points. Nick Gothberg (7), Mark Tellerico (5), and Matt DiNello (4) contributed. Thunder 60, Cavaliers 55 MARCH 7 Thunder (10-0): Bryan Wilcox scored 16 points. Corbin Garry added 13 points, and Harris Mehovic scored 11. Connor Butkiewicz (9) and Doug Dominello (9) contributed. Cavaliers (4-6): Mike Rhodd scored 21 points, and Andrew Stearns added 14 points. Matt O Connor (8), Amad Badr (6), and Chad Mehmel (4) contributed. Warriors 58, Nets 53 MARCH 7 Warriors (3-7): Kevin Twerago scored 20 points. Chris Amnott added 17 points. Kevin Casserino (6), Adam DiPinto (4), and Jake Cardinal (4) contributed. Nets (3-7): PJ Vigneault scored 27 points. Andrew Goralski (7), Brett Susi (7), and Mark Costanzo (5) contributed. Knicks 62, Wizards MARCH 7 Knicks (8-2): Enjam Mullaj scored 17 points. Dave Nichols added 13 points. Matt DiNello (8), James DiNello (7), Nick Sciota (6), Izac Montz (6), and Chris Bunko (3) contributed. Wizards (4-6): John Giovannucci scored 16 points. Joe Pesce (8), Trevor Dalia (5), Randall Ledet (4), and Tim Keal (3) contributed. Final Regular Season Standings (As of March 7) Team W L 1, Thunder , 76ers 8 2 3, Knicks 8 2 4, Lakers 6 4 5, Bulls 4 6 6, Cavaliers 4 6 7, Wizards 4 6 8, Sonics 3 7 9, Warriors , Nets , Celtics 2 8 Boys Basketball: Holy Cross From page 25 career, and he gave the credit to his talented senior class. Sixteen wins is a lot of wins, but it s more than just the wins, he said. It s the effort that they put in every day at practice. I m just going to miss them to death, but they re an example for the underclassmen. We just talked a moment ago. The underclassmen should really feed off the energy that they felt here Are Your Dentures Rubbing You the Wrong Way? Dentures, Denture Relines and Implants Give us a Call, & You ll Leave Smiling! Thomas L. DeRienzo, DMD Cornerstone Court, Unit 1, Plantsville, CT tonight, so we can hopefully get back to the state tournament and advance further. As for Holy Cross, they advanced to face No. 5 Ridgefield. The Crusaders lost in the quarterfinals, Perhaps the Knights had slowed them with the second round battle that pushed them to the final seconds. I think our schedule was tough. It s a battle every night in the CCC, and I think that prepares you for the state tournament. But EasyAccess O N L I N E Now Available Through Web Site then the NVL and Holy Cross are pretty good too. It s a good style of basketball, Lasbury said. It was one play here or there, really. That s the difference Both teams had a lot of talent on the floor and a lot of effort. I congratulate Holy Cross, but I m also very proud of my guys. To comment on this story or to contact sports writer John Goralski, him at jgoralski@ southingtonobserver.com.

29 To advertise, call (860) Southington Sports Scene YMCA Muscle Mania On Saturday, March 5, local weightlifters converged upon the Southington YMCA for the annual bench press contest. Participants had three attempts to lift as much weight as possible in the contest of strength. For complete results, see page 31. Photos by TAMMI KNAPIK 29 Athletes competed in six different divisions. At right, one of the female competitors prepares for a lift. Above, Jose Gonzalez gets ready for his turn. At right, Noelle Raymond celebrates a successful attempt in the women s masters division. Below, Judge George Kominos double checks the score. Above, Sarah Myrick takes a photo of her aunt Christine Zazynski during the women s competition. Below, a young fan cheers for her mother. Below, Southington Observer Editor Ed Harris measures himself against the competition in the men s open division. Above, Nick Augelli chalks his hands before his attempt in competition.

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31 To advertise, call (860) Southington High School Gymnastics New England Championships Saturday, March 12 At Jonathan Law HS, Milford SELECTED INDIVIDUAL RESULTS Vault (101 Athletes) 1, Amanda Scanlon, Glastonbury (CT), 9.8; 2, Chloe Herczeg, Algonquin Regional (MA), 9.525; 3, Katie Freese, Valley Regional (CT), 9.475; 4 (tie), Jessica Wood, Exeter (NH), and Morgan Wallingford, Dover (NH), 9.45, 5 (tie), Nicole Silva, Barrington (RI), and Amanda Hubley Algonquin Regional (MA), 9.425; 6, Savannah Soares, La Salle Academy (RI), 9.4; 14, Kayla Nati, Southington (CT), Ski Racing Eastern High School Championships March 12-13* At Cannon Mountain, Franconia, NH Team results 1, New Hampshire; 2, Massachusetts; 3, Vermont; 4, Connecticut; 5, Maine; 6, New York; 7, Pennsylvania; 8, New Jersey; 9, Wisconsin; 10, Virginia/ Maryland/ Delaware. INDIVIDUAL RESULTS Boys slalom (112 skiers) 1, Garrett M Gagne, MA, 1:10.90; 2, Alex Rose, ME, 1:13.21; 3, James Jackson, ME, 1:14.17; 4, Jake Mason, CT, 1:14.85; 5, Anders V Hanson, NH, 1:14.88; 6, Michael B Workman, NH, 1:15.02; 7, Dillon A O`Brien, CT, 1:15.63; 8, Nicholas F Sherman, MA, 1:16.03; 9, Matthew Halupowski, NH, 1:16.42; 10, Daniel Caffry, VT, 1:16.52; 11, David A Polson, VT, 1:16.63; 12, R Emile Hatem, NH, 1:16.73; 13, Connor Krell, MA, 1:16.83; 14, Scott N.J. ROMANIELLO Plumbing & Heating Residential Specialists No Job Too Small FAUCETS TOILETS WATER HEATERS Professional, Quality Workmanship Senior Discount P S Skiing Conditions As of Sunday, March 6 Snow Depth: 25 to 35 Trails Open: 11 Snow Surface: Variable conditions Lifts Available: 5 Hours of Operation* Will reopen on Friday for spring hours Friday 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday/Sunday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. *Check the snow line: (860) 628-SNOW Graham, VT, 1:16.94; 15, Findley M Payne, MA, 1:17.02; 16, Benjamin J Hutchins, WI, 1:17.06; 17, Chance Snyder, PA, 1:17.09; 18, Christopher Mastropietro, NY, 1:17.10; 19, Robert B Langlands III, NH, 1:17.84; 20, Mackenzie De Carle, PA, 1:17.91; 21, David Graziani, MA, 1:18.34; 22, J Cali Hatem, NH, 1:18.81; 23, Mark Nebraska, VT, 1:18.95; 24, Brendan Drexler, NJ, 1:19.00; 25, Tyler Smith, NJ, 1:19.51; 26, Jesse Anser, NY, 1:19.64; 27, Ian O Williams, NY, 1:20.05; 28, Colin M Proctor, MA, 1:20.26; 29, Joshua Anderson, MA, 1:20.98; 30, Kent Hanson, MA, 1:21.14; 31, Will Scatchard, MA, 1:21.24; 32, Kurt Niiler, NH, 1:21.59; 33, Andrew Sherras, VT, 1:21.64; 34, Alexander Gowen, ME, 1:21.67; 35, Austin E Florian, CT, 1:21.69; 36, Erik Johnson, MA, 1:22.20; 37, Harlan Kimball, CT, 1:22.52; 38, Tyler Renz, CT, 1:22.65; 39, Sean Lenihan, PA, 1:22.83; 40, Brandon Marchiafava, NJ, 1:22.84; 41, Bowen C Malcolm, VT, 1:23.12; 42, Andrew Representing the town Now Accepting New Accounts Spring & Fall Clean-Ups Grass Mowing & Shrub Trimming Mulching & Leaf Removal Commercial & Residential Fully Insured Free Estimates (860) Ask for Larry Irick, PA, 1:23.43; 43, Nathan Nicols, ME, 1:23.71; 44, Maxfield Johnson, VT, 1:23.75; 45, Jamie Bender, V/M/D, 1:23.85; 46, Jake Van Deursen, NH, 1:24.22; 47, Nicholas Golini, NY, 1:24.27; 48, Michael Osborne, CT, 1:25.54; 49, Bergen Tindall, PA, 1:25.65; 50, Bobby Wolfangel, NJ, 1:25.77; 51, Ryan Baker, PA, 1:25.97; 52, Wesley Wright, PA, 1:26.28; 53, Peter Striegel, NJ, 1:26.79; 54, Nicholas T Franssen, PA, 1:27.04; 55, Benjamin C Hawthorne, CT, 1:27.53; 56, Cody Jacques, ME, 1:28.10; 57, Austin J Blankenship, WI, 1:28.47; 58, Tyler Harold, PA, 1:28.56; 59, Kyle S Mason, CT, 1:29.47; 60, Alex J Clayton, V/M/D, 1:29.54; 61, Kevin Berge, NJ, 1:29.97; 62, Ethan C Burke, ME, 1:30.20; 63, Connor J Kennedy, NJ, 1:30.49; 64, Tim Wolfangel, NJ, 1:30.50; 65, Jack Tragert, ME, 1:31.92; 66, Alexander Thompson, NJ, 1:32.12; 67, Shane Rea, NJ, 1:33.46; 68, Robert Field, V/M/D, 1:34.34; 69, Thomas B Harris, SUBMITTED The Southington Youth Basketball Association s 6th grade travel basketball team raced to a 16-8 record and a second place finish in the CT Girls Basketball League s postseason tournament. Front, from left, Coach Michelle Spreda, Amanda Delorme, Marissa Matarazzo, Hannah Jackman, Sandra Milardo, and Maggie Meehan. Rear, Coach Dick Jackman, Kaylea Mazzamurro, Emily Mourges, Maighread Scafariello, Megan Mahon, Tyra O Regan, Alexandria Mourges, and Coach Tom Meehan. Scoreboard J ack Beaulieu Roofing Siding Decks Additions OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE Replacement Windows Fully INSURED License # NY, 1:34.93; 70, Andrew Harris, V/M/D, 1:36.53; 71, Hardy R Jason, NH, 1:36.66; 72, Curt Schibli, CT, 1:37.81; 73, North Kay, ME, 1:38.53; 74, Thomas Gillespie, NJ, 1:40.17; 75, Austin Blackman, VT, 1:47.95; 76, Doug C Houston-Ludlam, V/M/D, 1:51.26; 77, Vincent Corrado, NY, 1:59.95; 78, Eric Carver, CT, 2:03.07; 79, Tyler Klos, WI, 2:03.63; 80, Michael Noonan, WI, 2:17.76; 81, Stephen Johnson, WI, 2:24.83; 82, Brady L Garrett, CT, 3:03.85; 30 Did not finish. *Giant slalom on March 13 was canceled because of foggy conditions. Boys Basketball Class LL Championships Second Round Holy Cross 72, Southington 68 Wednesday, March 9 At Holy Cross HS, Waterbury #13 Southington #4 Holy Cross Southington (68) Drew Aylett, 1-0-2; Evan Nyerick, 0-0-0; Tyler Dube, ; Ted Shaw, 0-0-0; Jordan Chapman, ; Sal Romano, ; Alex Borofsky, ; Billy Queen, Totals: Holy Cross (72) Mike Mallory, ; Kairyn Boxton, ; Terence Lott, 0-0-0; Clifton Aquino, ; KJ Harmeling, 4-0-9; Scott Herlihy, 3-0-6; Tre Von Perry, 4-1-9; Malik Bell, Totals: Three point field goals SHS (6): Dube, Chapman (5). HC (3): Mallory, Auino, Harmeling. Records SHS, HC, Boys Swimming Class LL Diving Championships Thursday, March 10 At Hamden HS SELECTED INDIVIDUAL RESULTS 1, Connor Brisson, Greenwich, ; 2, Peter Cyr, Hamden, ; 3, Sean Burston, Westhill/Stamford, 418.8; 4, Zachary Slater, Staples, ; 5, Devin Clarke, E. Hartford, ; 6, Dale McElroy, Hamden, ; 7, Robbie Katz, Westhill/Stamford, 334.4; 8, William Moran, Fairfield Prep, ; 9, Cory Schultz, Fairfield Prep, ; 10, Zach Fox, Windham/RHAM, 305.0; 19, Ryan Connors, Southington, Class LL Swimming Qualifying Meet Saturday, March 12 At Hamden HS SELECTED INDIVIDUAL RESULTS 200 medley relay 1, Glastonbury, 1:38.62; 2, Greenwich, 1:39.09; 3, Staples, 1:40.59; 4, Xavier, 1:41.73; 5, Newtown, 1:41.92; 6, Westhill/Stamford, 1:42.82; 7, Ridgefield, 1:43.19; 8, Southington (Jesse Cooney, Michael Smigelski, Vladislav Kiveliyk, Colin Magaro), 1: free 1, Andrew Hendrickson, Westhill/ Stamford, 1:46.75; 2, Andrew Klutey, Ridgefield, 1:47.17; 3, Andrew Dillinger, Greenwich, 1:47.23; 4, Matthew Fraser, Greenwich, 1:48.4; 5, Ion Cebotaru, Westhill/Stamford, 1:48.54; 6, Jacob Dibella, Xavier, 1:48.68; 7, Kevin Lane, Greenwich, 1:48.96; 8, Christopher Myers, Ridgefield, 1:49.75; 35, Niels Thomsen, Southington, 2: IM 1, Kevin Kosciuk, Xavier, 1:58.84; 2, Brian Bollerman, Ridgefield, 1:58.88; 3, Kareem J & R FULLY INSURED ULTIMATE CONSTRUCTION ROOFS FOR LESS For Free Estimate Call Rafal SPECIALIZING IN ROOFING SIDING & GUTTERS Cell: (860) Office: (860) The Mighty Mite Saleh, Westhill/Stamford, 2:00.2; 4, Michael Hopkins, Westhill/Stamford, 2:00.42; 5, Jeff Anderson, Westhill/ Stamford, 2:00.73; 6, Grayson Smith, Ridgefield, 2:00.75; 7, Josephy Ahlberg, Glastonbury, 2:01.05; 8, Anthony Sipala, Glastonbury, 2:01.18; 20, Jesse Cooney, Southington, 2: free 1, Nicholas Porter, Glastonbury, 21.31; 2, Michael Smigelski, Southington, 21.4; 3, Michael Dustin, Greenwich, 21.8; 4, Derrian Duryea, Ridgefield, 21.85; 5, Daniel Hufziger, Newtown, 22.0; 6, Abben Hung, Newtown, 22.02; 7, Cory Bacon, Staples, 22.04; 8, Bjorn Davis, Fairfield Prep, 22.14; 11, Colin Magaro, Southington, fly 1, Michael Dustin, Greenwich, 53.14; Kevin Davila, Xavier, 53.51; 3, Kevin Kosciuk, Xavier, 53.94; 4, Tony Martir, Greenwich, 54.06; 5, Steven Geier, Glastonbury, 54.15; 6, Bryan Dougherty, Fairfield Prep, 54.26; 7, Jeff Anderson, Westhill/Stamford, 54.46; 8, Ion Cebotaru, Westhill/ Stamford, 54.69; 36, Vladislav Kiveliyk, Southington, 1: free 1, Michael Smigelski, Southington, 47.26; 2, Nicholas Porter, Glastonbury, 47.75; 3, Andrew Dillinger, Greenwich, 47.97; 4, Nathaniel Boley, Staples, 48.13; 5, Bjorn Davis, Fairfield Prep, 48.42; 6, Cory Bacon, Staples, 48.63; 7, Eric Minowitz, Greenwich, 48.75; 8, Daniel Hufziger, Newtown, 49.12; 11, Colin Magaro, Southington, free relay 1, Ridgefield, 1:29.23; 2, Fairfield Prep, 1:29.5; 3, Xavier, 1:29.86; 4, Staples, 1:30.81; 5, Newtown, 1:30.91; 6, Glastonbury, 1:31.26; 7, Greenwich, 1:31.76; 8, Southington (Colin Magaro, Jesse Cooney, Dylan Figueiredo, Michael Smigelski), 1: back 1, Nathaniel Boley, Staples, 53.7; 2, Christopher Bariss, Glastonbury, 53.94; 3, Bradley Helt, Fairfield Prep, 54.07; 4, Matthew Wisher, Staples, 54.5; 5, Steven Geier, Glastonbury, 54.53; 6, Alexander Lewis, OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE I can save you $$$$ Paul R. Mastrianni SEASONED FIREWOOD delivered: $285 FULL CORD $185 1/2 $115 1/4 IN YARD PICK-UP $20 & UP 50 Mastrianni Place Mulch Junk Hauling Tree Removal Chipping Snow Plowing Spring Leaf Clean-Up Raking, Blowing, Vac. Truck Service SUBMITTED On Sunday, Feb. 20, Southington s Tommy Nardi capped his winter season with the West Hartford Wolves by capturing the Wales division Mite A state title. Greenwich, 55.31; 7, Matthew Knapik, Fairfield Prep, 55.33; 8, Josephy Ahlberg, Glastonbury, 56.1; 24, Jesse Cooney, Southington, 1: free relay 1, Ridgefield, 3:18.3; 2, Staples, 3:19.59; 3, Greenwich, 3:20.56; 4, Fairfield Prep, 3:20.92; 5, Westhill/Stamford, 3:21.11; 6, Glastonbury, 3:21.95; 7, Xavier, 3:26.01; 8, Hamden, 3:27.85; 11, Southington (Joe Taglia, Niels Thomsen, Bryan Adie, Vladislav Kiveliyk), 3: Weight Lifting YMCA Bench Press Competition Saturday, March 5 At Southington YMCA Mens Juniors 1, Jonathan Broadbent, lbs; 2, Hunter Matta, lbs; 2, Nicholas Yousetzadeh, lbs. Mens Open 1, Nicholas Augelli, lbs; 2, Paul Cataldo, lbs; 3, Jim Mele, lbs; 4, Jose Gonzalez, lbs; 5, Chris Carnright, lbs; 6, Ted Cabata, lbs; 7, Ed Harris, lbs. Mens Masters 1, Charles Broadbent, lbs; 2, Doug David, lbs; 3, Tom Dumond, lbs; 4, Adam Freylor, lbs; 5, Robert Mahner, lbs; 6, Jeffrey Mahner, lbs; 7, Tim Connolly, lbs; 8, Dan Massucci, lbs. Mens Junior 1, Jordan LaFlamme, lbs; 2, Justin Hubeny, lbs; 3, Brian Casale, lbs; 4, Anthony Esteves, lbs; 5, Dave Munson, lbs; 6, Kevin Casale, lbs; 7, Anthony Riccucci, lbs. Womens Open 1, Christine Colella, lbs; 2, Debbie Kosior, lbs; 3, Christine Zaczynski, lbs. Womens Masters 1, Noelle Raymond, Commercial & Residential Insured Service State Reg. #545796

32 32 To advertise, call (860) Sports Calendar REGISTRATION 2011 CT SENIOR GAMES Friday, May 20-Sunday, May 22 at Willowbrook Park, New Britain. The Connecticut Senior Games is an open competition for athletes turning at least 50 years old in Athletes will compete in 14 sports in five (5) age divisions: 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85-89, & 90-plus. Contact: (860) or on-line at LAND CONSERVATION TRUST 5K FUN RUN/WALK Sunday, May 22, 9:30 a.m. (walkers) and 10 a.m. (runners), at the Calendar House. The untimed event is sponsored by the Southington Land Conservation Trust, Inc. Cost is $20 for preregistered participants (at southingtonlandtrust.org) or $25 after May 1. Participants will be entered into a free prize drawing at the end of the 5k race, and you must be present to win. Contact: Bonnie, (860) SPECIAL NEEDS 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. Bowling with a Buddy is not run, sponsored, or endorsed by the Southington Public Schools or the Southington Board of Education. Contact: Katrina Toce, kattoce@hotmail.com. YMCA Registration for the following classes and programs, unless otherwise noted, can be made at the Southington Community YMCA Membership Services Desk at (860) or on-line at MARCH MADNESS 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT (OPEN TO NON MEMBERS) Sunday, March 13 at the Southington YMCA. The annual 3-on-3 double-elimination basketball tournament has four age divisions with tip-offs as follows: 9 a.m. (Grades 3-4), 11 a.m. (Grades 5-6), 2 p.m. (Grades 7-8), and 4 p.m. (Grades 9-10). Cost is $28 ($35 on game day). T-shirts for the first 30 registered teams. Sixteen teams maximum per division with trophies for the top team in each division. Contact: Teen Program Coordinator Steve Silva, (860) ext. 323 or at ssilva@southington-cheshireymca.org. 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) PARKS & REC Registration for the following classes and programs, unless otherwise noted, can be made at the Southington Parks & Recreation Department at (860) Checks should be payable to Town of Southington. To learn more check out the activity schedule at MENS BASKETBALL OPEN GYM Sundays through March 13, 9 a.m.-noon, at the Derynoski Elementary School gym. Participants must be over 18 years of age and a resident of Southington. Proof of residency is required. Cost is $5 per week and will be collected at the door. Checks should be payable to Town of Southington. The gym is closed whenever there is inclement weather. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM Tuesdays, March 15-May 17, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. (grades 3-6) and 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. (grades 6-7), at Derynoski See CALENDAR, page 33 OPEN SUNDAY MEADOW LANE One floor living in this 3 BR Ranch featuring new roof, windows, hot water heater. Hardwood floors under carpet, oversided detached garage and more. Dir: Pondview to Lawncrest to Meadow $180,000 LIZ NEW TO THE MARKET Updated 3 bedroom Ranch featuring large fenced yard, new furnace & HW heater, C/Air and more. $249,900 KATE OPEN SUNDAY BRISTOL STREET Exceptional quality and condition offered in this 3 BR, 1.5 BA Colonial w/hw floors, much updating thru-out on 1/2 acre. Dir: Main St to Bristol $262,000 JOYCE CONDO FOR RENT Much updating done on this 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath Townhouse for rent. Unit also features a finished LL and garage. Call for details. $1,200/MO CATHY North Main Street Selected home offerings from: Southington, Bristol, Plainville Hot Properties 139 Northwest Drive Plainville, CT Price: $259,900 Style: Ranch Agency: Coldwell Banker Premiere Realtors, Southington Contact: Paulette Otano at Features: Two Bedroom, 2 full bath Ranch w/lots of closets thruout. Beautiful hardwood floors, 1st flr. Laundry area, oversized attached garage. Just needs a few finishing touches. BAY-MAR REALTY OPEN EVENINGS & WEEKENDS BRISTOL: JUST LISTED! Matthews Park Mobile home in perfect condition. 5 RMs, 2 BRs, 2 BAs, 2 car carport, C/Air, gas FP, DR, completely updated. ASKING $65,900 PLAINVILLE : Take a look this 8 room Cape with 4BRs, 2 BAs, hardwood floors, DR, C/Air, 2 car garage, sunroom, walking distance to schools, easy highway access. PRICED TO SELL $189,900 HARWINTON: JUST LISTED! Country Cape set on over 2 acres. 8 rooms, 4 BRs, BAs, large LR w/fp, FDR, remodeled kitchen and baths, office, new windows, 2 car garage. ASKING $253, Pond Street Old Lyme, CT Price: $1,499,000 Agency: Country Manor Realty Contact: Features: GORGEOUS OCEANFRONT PROPERTY totally remodeled in 2007, 6 rooms with 2 baths, 3 BRs and a MBR w/balcony and a LR with a nice deck to enjoy the ocean. Included in the sale is a 3 bedroom guest house great for rental income. Itʼs beautiful and reduced to $1,499,000 and it will sell. Owner/Agent Brought to you by: Timberbrook of Farmington Farmington/West Hartford Line, CT Price: $605,000 Agency: By Carrier Realty, LLC Contact: Gayle Dennehy at Features: New Construction By Carrier! 4 BR, 2-1/2 BA Colonial with Expansive 2 Car Garage! Natural Gas Heating, Town Water and Sewer, Cul-de-sac Locale! Energy Star Approved Homes! Only 2 Homes Remain! Close to Blue Back and West Farms Shopping and The Reservoir Walking Trails. Developed and Constructed by Multi Award Winning Carrier Home Builders, a Division of By Carrier. Visit for more! 213 Spring St., Southington, CT To feature a home in Hot Properties, call our Advertising Dept., BRISTOL : JUST LISTED! This home has a lot to offer. All it needs is a fresh coat of paint. 5 RM, split level wit h3 BRs, EIK, LR w/fp, 2 car garage, close to schools, shopping and highway access. $172,900 BRISTOL: Picture Perfect Home just waiting for you! Take a look at this 8 RM, 4 BR, bath Colonial. Large EIK, family room with cathedral ceiling & fireplace, private rear yard. A MUST SEE! $338,800 BRISTOL: Exceptional Ranch offers country kitchen w/2-sided FP, LR with FP & family room w/fp, 3 BRs, BAs, set on private level lot, new bathroom. Walking distance to school. $229, Each office is independently owned and operated

33 To advertise, call (860) From page 32 Elementary School gym. The 7th annual camp will focus on beginner and skilled players, grades 3-8, under the direction of professional coaches and Lady Knight volleyball players. A skill assessment will determine an athlete s best overall placement in the program. Cost is $20 for grades 3-6 ($25 for grades 7-8), and includes a camp t-shirt. Forms may be picked up at the Parks & Rec office and mailed to Loren McCormick, 56 Stuart Dr, Southington, CT by Saturday, March 5. Contact: Loren McCormick, (860) or at elmac@sbcglobal.net. PARK & 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. RED SOX VS TORONTO Saturday, April 16. Cost is $95 per person and includes deluxe motor coach transportation and ticket to the game. RED SOX VS SEATTLE Sunday, July 24. Cost is $95 per person and includes deluxe motor coach transportation and ticket to the game. RED SOX VS OAKLAND Sunday, Aug. 28. Cost is $95 per person and includes deluxe motor coach transportation and ticket to the game. FUNDRAISERS 5TH ANNUAL MICHAEL CASALE SCHOLARSHIP BAS- KETBALL GAME Wednesday, April 6, 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m., in the Derynoski Elementary School gym. Cost is $2 for adults ($1 for students) and proceeds from the faculty all-star game benefits the Michael Casale Scholarship fund. This year s "Red Team" will feature BOE Chairman Brian Goralski. Derynoski Principal Karen Smith will lead the cheerleaders during a halftime performance. MISCELLANEOUS SHS INDIVIDUAL, FAMILY & SENIOR GOLD CARD PASSES Available at the SHS Athletic office, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Family passes cost $85 and includes immediate family members for boys/girls volleyball, football, boys/girls basketball, wrestling, and night baseball. Individual passes cost $40 ($30 for students). Senior gold cards are free for Southington residents ages 62 and over and are good for all regular season home games. Those who already have gold cards do not need new ones. Contact: SHS Athletic Office, (860) x 425. If you would like to your event announced in The Observer, please information to jgoralski@southingtonobserver. com. The Observer reserves the right to edit for content and space. Ski racing: Eastern HS race From page 24 on edge. It s one reason why Florian is so much better at the giant slalom, or GS race. With gates spaced farther apart than the slalom race with more speed changes and faster times, Florian is a natural fit. On the other hand, Schinkel said that Florian is sure to get another chance at the regional championship event. After all, Florian s just a junior. We re very happy that we re going to get him for Sports Calendar another season, and I think we re going to see even better results from him, said the coach. I think that this is only the beginning. To comment on this story or to contact sports writer John Goralski, him at jgoralski@ southingtonobserver.com. OPEN 1-3 pm SUNDAY 3/20 For Your Consideration... BRISTOL Perfectly Priced! Not Your Typical Bi-Level! 4 BR, 3 BA, Den/DR, 2 Car Garage, Lovely HW Flooring, Private Rear Yard and Deck! Gorgeous Potential In-Law a Must See! Dir: South Street to Route 69 which is Wolcott Street. $254,900. Muriel Iorli, NEW LISTING! PLAINVILLE Spacious Seven Room Solid Cape with 4 Bedrooms, Den, DR, 1.5 BAs, 1 Car Garage. Well Kept and a Perfect Place to Begin! $139,900. Muriel Iorli, BRISTOL Newly Available! Sheltered Ponds Lovely 2 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Townhome with Many Updates! Natural Gas Heating, C/Air, Garage. $164,900. Gayle Dennehy, Call Now For A Free Market Analysis BRISTOL Lovely 7 room Colonial, featuring 4 BRs, Baths, updated eat-in kitchen, fireplaced living room, formal dining room, family room, alum siding, sliders to deck, enclosed front porch, fenced yard. Call Bruce LeBeau - $159,900 Thank You to our Loyal Clients and Customers for voting us the SECOND BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY in Southington, Plainville and Bristol for 2010! Voted 2nd best Real Estate Agency in Southington & Plainville In the Southington Citizen NEW TO THE MARKET - Tucked away in the Plantsville section of Southington in this perfect complex, this sun filled and meticulous unit has every thing you will need, its open floor plan allows a great flow, central air, large finished lower level, and lovely complex. $224, "Look No Further" This lovely Ranch in Spring Lake Village with master bedroom with full bath, 2nd floor loft overlooking 1st floor, neutral décor thru out, central air, new Harvey windows, finished lower level, one car garage, one occupant must be 55 or older. $219,900 NORTHEAST AREA! BRISTOL Move in Condition! HOME WARRANTY! Lovely 6 Room Raised Ranch with in-law potential, featuring 3 BRs, 2 full Baths, EIK w/ breakfast bar, HW floors, FP d LR, FR w/fp, LL adds 700 sq. ft., and includes 2nd kitchen w/ bath, newer roof, siding and windows, nice rear deck, one car garage, level yard. Call Susan Gorski - $225,000 A-Gold Action Realty, Inc. 89 North Street Rt. 6 Bristol (860) c21agold@c21agold.com OPEN SUNDAY SUNDAY WATERBURY ROAD BRISTOL Many Pluses went into this home, 2000 sq ft. Colonial home just built with three bedrooms, 2.5 baths, the MBR w/ huge walk in closet, 1st floor FR, living room with fireplace, eat in kitchen with granite counters, central air and two car attached garage. $299,900Dir: Route 372 to Waterbury Road. NEW BRITAIN-"We Have It" This solid brick two family home in the western section of town with HW floors thru out most of the home with generously sized RMs perfect for the owner occupied or investment, "Added Addition" close to park and the hospital, featuring four rooms each up and down unit with two BRs, one bath. $149,900 BRISTOL Lovely spacious 5 room Cape on.58 acre level lot, featuring 2 BRs, the fully applianced kitchen opens to a formal dining area, large LR w/ office off the back, open porch, quick highway access. Call Paula Ray- $124,900 - "Step into a new World" This stately Colonial built by the D& J Builders (A Putnam Co) situated on approximately 2,5 wooded acres with a beautiful view of the Southington Valley, featuring four BRs and four BAs, the MBR w/ 2nd FP, EIK w/ island and pantry, Corian counters, FR w/ FP, 2nd stairway to the upper level, impressive entrance foyer, three car attached garage. $949,900 - "Introducing Southington Commons North" this new professional office complex under construction on Route 10, with class A space, 1000 sq. ft to 1500 sq. ft. choose your colors and layout, call the office for further details. PUTNAM AGENCY REAL ESTATE, LLC Southington Commons, 943 Queen Street, Southington Serving Your Real Estate Needs for Over 47 Years Fax putnamagcy@aol.com Visit our Website putnamagencyrealestate.com MUST SEE! Paula Ray Owner/Broker BRISTOL ROOM TO ROAM! Very Spacious 4 BR, 2 BA Split with Quality Remodeled Kitchen and Baths, Newer Flooring and Oversized Garages!.89 Acres! $299,900. Gayle Dennehy, PLAINVILLE NEW EXCLUSIVE! Lovely 3 BR Colonial with Traditional Front Porch and Expansive 2 Car Garage, Country Kitchen w/gas Cooking, Expansive Deck and In-ground Pool for Summer Fun! Finished LL with Play Room and FR! $289,900! Gayle Dennehy, Southington ( 860 ) CROMWELL NEW EXCLUSIVE! CROMWELL HILLS! PRIVATE AREA! 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath with Gorgeous New Kitchen, Formal Dining, Deck, Patio and Balcony with Streaming Sunlight! Finished LL! $157,900. Ask about Incentive! Gayle Dennehy, CT Broker Lic # REB Lil-1 Associates, Inc. INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED Visit openhouse.com for open houses this week! Now Hiring Experienced Agents Quality Service Office PORRIELLO DRIVE 532 WINDING RIDGE OPEN SUN 1-3 Sophistication Characterizes This New Construction Gourmet dining for this truly elegant house, only an old world style kitchen would do. Here, paneled wood cabinetry includes fluted corners and granite lines the counters. A private master suite exudes luxury and a luxurious master bathroom. This home offers 5385 sq ft, of the most luxurious detailed appointments. 4 BRs, 3 full BAs and 3 car garage. $799,000. Lil Polak x310. c21lil1@aol.com Dir: Meriden Ave to Porriello Drive 282 WOODLOT PATH 27 MACARTHUR ROAD OPEN SUN 1-3 Adult Community...Retire in Style!... Enjoy good life in a most inviting, 2 BR, 2 BA condo with 1st floor laundry, cathedral ceilings, dining room, full basement and 1 car garage in a private setting. Pool, social hall, tennis, bocce, water included in condo fee. $209,900. Lil Polak x310. MLS# G c21lil1@aol.com. Dir: Pleasant St to Woodruff St left on Carriage Drive, left on Woodlot Path Top Of The World View...You ll never want to leave this rambling 4 bedroom, 3.2 bath custom ranch. Reached by its own winding road, it sits high surrounded by nature s beauty with fabulous views. Enjoy its cheerful eat-in kitchen. 2 fireplaces and huge 3 car garage all on 2.98 acres. Call Lil today for a look. New price. $699,000. Lil Polak x310. MLS# G c21lil1@aol.com. OPEN SUN 1-3 OPEN SUN 1-3 Under Construction... 4 BR, 3200 sq ft Colonial home on approx 2 acres. You ll delight over the feeling of spaciousness, the quality amenities, HD floors throughout, gourmet kitchen, SS appliances, crown molding and finished bonus room. 3-car garage. $696,000. Lil Polak x310. MLS# G c21lil1@aol.com. Dir: Marion Ave to Mount Vernon Rd to Winding Ridge PLAINVILLE Ideal Starter Home... Features 3 or 4 bedrooms, formal living room, EIK, vinyl exterior, thermopane windows, full basement, rec room, appliances and more. Convenient location to shopping and highways. $159,900. Dick Rubino x319. MLS# c21lil1@aol.com. Dir: Woodford Ave to Dallas to Macarthur Rd Move-In Condition... 3 bedroom raised ranch in great neighborhood with very private fenced backyard. Open floor plan, c-air. Newer windows and roof, family room (460 sq ft included in total sq ft) in lower level with wooden subfloor under carpet for extra warmth. $234,500. Anna Tyra x364. MLS# G c21lil1@aol.com. Call us Today for a FREE Market Evaluation!

34 34 To advertise, call (860) FRIDAY, MARCH 18 BRISTOL SINGLES ST. PATRICK S DANCE. 8 p.m. to midnight. Sponsored by Social Connections. Nuchie s Restaurant, 164 Central St., Bristol. Buffet from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Dress to impress. $17. (860) OTHER TOM COLICCHIO S AWARD WINNING CRAFTSTEAK. Celebrity chef from Top Chef teams up with Brew Master Garrett Oliver. Exclusive beer dinner for 100 guests. 7 to 10 p.m. Craftsteak at MGM Grand at Foxwoods, Mashantucket. $120. Foxwods.com, SATURDAY, MARCH 19 BRISTOL LINE DANCING. 7 to 11 p.m. Open to the public. Bristol French Club, 40 Barlow St., Bristol. FOURTH ANNUAL MUM FES- TIVAL PASTA DINNER. 4 to 9 p.m. Giamatti Little League Center, 355 Mix St., Bristol. $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. Also for sale will be the Mum Festival 50th anniversary commemorative post card set. CASINO TRIP TO MOHEGAN SUN. Fundraiser for Bristol Eastern High School after graduation praty. Leave BEHS, King Street entrance, Bristol at 4:45 p.m. Leave the casino at midnight. $35. Include transportation, $15 food voucher, and $15 wheel spin. Payment due in full upon reservation. (860) , (860) OTHER EDIBLE PERENNIAL GAR- DENING AND LANDSCAP- ING. 2 p.m. Speaker John Root. Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Dr., Farmington. Register at FarmingtonLibraries.org, (860) STEAMPUNK TEMPUS OFFERS IMMERSION INTO FUTURISTIC VICTORIANA. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Explore the Steampunk universe. Art show, lectures, live music, a tea with Miss Kitty, and more. Mark Twain House and Museum, 351 Farmington Ave., Hartford. Moves to The City Steam Brewery, 942 Main St., Hartford 6:30 p.m. to midnight. $45 for the Mark Twain House activities and City Steam events. $35 for the Mark Twain House events only. $20 for the City Steam party. (860) , MarkTwainHose.org MARCH 19, 20 OTHER NUTMEG STATE ORCHID SOCIETY SHOW AND SALE. Saturday noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. West Hartford Meeting and Conference Center, 50 South Main St., West Hartford. $5 894 South Main Street, Plantsville, CT OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY HURLEY COMMONS Bristol - Freestanding 1344 sq ft Condo in excellent condition. Offering: 2 bedrooms, 1-1/2 baths, open floor plan, walk out finished lower level, & oversize 12x30 deck. $149,999 Dir: Blakeslee To Hurley Hill to Hurley Commons OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY MILLER FARM RD Southington - Looking for an owner occupied side by side multi-family home? This one is in mint condition with 3 bedrooms each side, updated interiors, newer 10x12 sunrooms, full basements, separate utilities. Great Buy $309,000 OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY PLEASANT STREET Southington - Location! Location! This Southington - Colonial with 200 sq ft plus of LePage built 2300 sq. ft. home is on a cul-desac road and has everyting you are looking living space: with 2 family rooms, large kitchen, living space is updated throughout, plenty of for. Open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, office on formal dining rm, finished lower level, brick the first floor, oversize deck overlooking a patio, ingrd pool with views of the mountain. private level lot. $398,900 Dir: Marion Ave $298,900 Dir: Loper to stop sign turn to Wonx Spring to Miller Farm left onto Pleasant. Area miscellaneous listings admission. Children 12 and under are free. NutmegOrchids.org SUNDAY, MARCH 20 BRISTOL FASHION SHOW FUNDRAIS- ER. Benefit for Autism Speaks. 6:30 p.m. Dress Barn of Bristol, Farmington Avenue, Bristol. $10. (860) TESTIMONY NIGHT. Pastor Mike Arsenault from New Life Christian church will share life story. Christian Fellowship Center, 43 Prospect St., Bristol. Free. (860) BRISTOL ELKS FAMILY BREAKFAST. 8 to 11 a.m. Omelets or egg sandwich on a hard roll or French toast or pancakes, bacon, kielbasa, sausage or ham, and home fries, bread and butter, juice and coffee or tea. Bristol Elks Club, 126 South St., Bristol. $6 for adults, $4 for children under 11, children under 5 free. TUESDAY, MARCH 22 PLAINVILLE HEALING GARDENS. 6 to 7 p.m. Master Garden MG Trask will guide you through a series of 10 healing gardens. The first is The Cottage Garden. Learn to plan, create, and maintain a unique magical space. Class includes complimentary flower seeds provided by Southington Grange No. 25 through America the Beautiful Seed Project. Plainville High School, Route 10, Plainville. $20 for Plainville residents, $25 for non-residents. Offered by Plainville Adult and Conintinuing Education. (860) THURSDAY, MARCH 24 BRISTOL BRISTOL ELKS FAMILY NIGHT DINNER. 5 to 6:30 p.m. Roast pork or the fish of the day. Bristol Elks Club, 126 South St., Bristol. $8, all inclusive. Call (860) for fish of the day. OTHER IMAGES FROM UNDER THE SEA. Discussion led by Dick Wells of Avon. Photographs of marine life from Florida, Australia s Great Barrier Reef Northfield Condominiums Plainville OPEN SUNDAY 1-3pm 23 Free Standing Units Capes & Ranches Active Adult Community Introducing Our New Model! 1012 sq ft $249,900 Dircetions: Rt 177 (Plainville Ave) to Bradley Street $264, sq ft $274, sq ft $289, sq ft 894 South Main Street, Plantsville, CT and the Caribbean. All ages. Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Dr., Farmingotn. (860) , FarmingtonLibraries.org MARCH 24, 25 BRISTOL ALL YOU CAN EAT PASTA SUPPER. Thursday and Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Benefits the Christian Fellowship Center soup kitchen, food pantry, carehouse and youth center. Christian Fellowship Center, 43 Prospect St., Bristol. $10 for Greater Hartford Call Direct adults, children ages 6 and under are free. (860) SATURDAY, MARCH 26 PLAINVILLE SPRING INTO SPRING PARC S ANNUAL SPRING DANCE FUND RAISER. 6:30 to 11 p.m. To raise money for families for people with developmental disabilities. Nuchie s, Forestville. $55. Tickets available through PARC and board members. (860) , parc.plainville@gmail.com. 2 1 Joan A. Tardif joantardif@kw.com Is your home BURSTING at the seams! Local Home at a Reasonable Price! Great for a growing family & their dog/s. Includes 4 BRs, large master suite & fenced-in yard. Open House Sunday March pm Convenient to Shopping, Contact me for details! Schools & Interstates 84 & 72 BRISTOL - Beautiful 3 bedroom BA Colonial. With bay windows that accent the grand MBR suite and great room w/a corner FP. Relax in the 7 person hot tub on the 22x16 deck & gazebo. Nothing to do but move in. DRASTICALLY REDUCED to $287, BIRCH MEADOW CONDOS - Great condo in small complex, 2 BRs, LR, eat-in kitchen, DR, finished LL, FR, office and workshop 2.5 baths plus a 2 car garage. DRASTICALLY REDUCED TO $239,000. THE BEST AT WHAT WE DO! cmrbristol.com SOLD A SPACIOUS 10RM, 4 BR Colonial w/ study, 3 BAs, 2 FPs, 1st floor MBR & FR, FDR, FP d LR, newer roof & furnace, HW floors, walk-in closets, built-ins, c/vac 2 car garage all on a wooded lot with inground pool & Jacuzzi. Listed at $269, A LOT OF LIVING TO DO and lots of room for it in this Split Level home. With its inviting LR that radiates hospitality & charm, a large friendly kitchen, 3 BRs, finished rec. room in LL, 1 car garage and REDUCED TO $183, LOCATED ON AN ACRE LOT is where you ll find this 3 bedroom Ranch, w/eat-in kitchen, and 1 st floor FR/den, HW floors. Bank owned property, asking $139, North Main St, Southington (860) Farmington Ave, Berlin (860) Plymouth: New Construction! Custom Home 2,200 sq ft, 4 BR 2.5 baths, 2 gar. Oil heat, central a/c starting at $319,900 on serene, level pasture. Builders plan or yours or buy just the lot $74,900 Bristol: PRIVACY! Immaculate Ranch 2 BR, oak cabs, 1 car garage with loft, plus a foundation in place for huge barn all on 4.93 acres, PRIVACY at very end of dead end road! $189,900 Bristol: Lovely Cape has 1st floor FR Snuggle up in front of the FP 4 BR or make it 3 with FDR, 2 Full baths and 2 Garage. Large deck, Plus Covered Patio, Come see for yourself, you ll want this HOME for the Holidays! Terryville: Remodeled Colonial is just like brand new! Call today, you ll be hard pressed to find a better home for the money! 3 BR 1.5 baths Reduced to $168,500 Southington: A great family home, a great family neighborhood with sf of living space, all of the spacious RMs in this 3 BR Col offer something for everyone. Gracious entry foyer, 3 BAs, 1st floor office, MBR suite with walk-in closet, dressing area, whirlpool tub, 13x12 1st flr laundry, heated in-ground pool. $429,900 Beth Smedick (860) x222 Southington: Spic and Span best describes this immaculate contemporized townhome with over 1900 sf of open living space. 2 BR, 2 BA with vaulted ceiling living room, newly finished LL walk out, 1 car garage. Newly painted and carpeted. Smaller private complex. $242,000 Carol Nevrivy (860) x213 Terryville: Beautiful Cape, New Kitchen and baths, 4 BR, 2 Baths and Much more at a Unbelievable LOW, low Price of ONLY $139,900 ask for Janet Laviero Bristol: Invest in YOURSELF! Colonial Style 2 family duplex w/in a business zone.(bt-15). Main Side is 5/3 other unit is 4/2 incl lrg attached barn. A STEAL! Asking $89,900 Bristol: Immaculate Colonial, 4 BR, 3 full baths, 3 car garage, hrdwd floors, first floor den/office with fp. Too many new updates to list! Everything has been done $289,900 Bristol: Handicap accessible & outfitted Ranch home, new roof, siding, hardwood floors & more with nice fenced-in back yard! Just Listed at $185,000 Southington: Well maint Col on ac on set back lot, C/Air, open front porch, gas grill w/gas line, 2-c gar, formal DR, LR w/fp, front foyer. Lrg eat-in kit w/sliders to deck, main flr laundry, MBR suite w/full bath, walk-in closet & office space/dressing rm. Fin LL W/O, total 2773 sf. $389,900 Call Jenna Carroll (860) x348 Southington: First floor end unit with fireplace and one car detached garage, slider leads to patio from both bedrooms, lrg full BA, washer/dryer, eat-in kit, very private wooded grounds, 55+ community with pool. $115,000 Call Jadwiga (Heidi) Karwowski (860) x314 Bristol: Just Listed! Gorgeous home with roof, new kitchen, tile flooring, composite deck, FP in the FR, 3 BR and 2 full baths, 2 car garage, Northeast location $224,900! Bristol: Well cared for home with 4 BR, 1.5 baths plus first floor FR/den from DR, New roof,siding,windows, fenced in yard, 2 car garage. Reduced to $179,900 Southington: Lots of room, over 1240 sq ft per unit this wonderful 2 Family is 5/5 with 3BR each, nice yard walking distance to bike trail, center green or dozens of restaurants & shops. Reduced to $194,900 Southington: Best Buy in Town! Move right in! Ranch with updated kitchen, hardwood floors, newer windows central A/C, oversized garage. Reuced to ONLY $142,900! TERRYVILLE: Fully approved ready to build on 2.3 acres privacy lot ONLY $64,900! PLYMOUTH: Fully approved ready to build on 1.31 level meadowlands ONLY $74, select.realty@snet.net

35 40 To advertise, call (860) SPECIAL AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLEMENT Engine maintenance 101: What to look for in oil filters (ARA) - In today s economy it s more important than ever to take care of your vehicle. Engine maintenance is critical when extending the life of your vehicle. There is a lot of information available about the differences in oils and other maintenance components, but what no one explains is what to look for in an oil filter. The oil filter serves as the lifeblood for your engine. It is important because it cleans the oil and is capable of filtering high volumes of oil with relatively low restriction. How do you know which filter to choose and what are the differences between styles? The shell is the outside casing you see when the filter is installed. It keeps your filter safe during the wear and tear on your vehicle, and protects it from punctures. The media is the filtering component. Depending on the level of filter you chose, media can be described as a maze of cellulose, synthetics and/or microfibers that remove the harmful debris from your engine oil. The core is the part of the filter that helps the filter keep its shape and prevents it from collapsing under extreme pressure. It is inserted inside of the filter media and can be made of a variety of materials. The base plate is the threaded component of the oil filter. In addition to providing the threaded attachment for the filter, it directs the oil flow through the filter. The gasket is the rubber ring that seals the filter to the engine s oil filter base. This gasket is typically made of flexible rubber. Now that you understand the components of an oil filter, it s easy to see that not all oil filters are the same. There are some key differences in the quality of oil filter you are purchasing. Most economy filters are very basic and last for a limited time in comparison to the higher end filters. These filters use media of natural wood fibers to sort out the debris in your oil. The better filter contains media that is a blend of fibers. The majority of the fibers are cellulose with a minimal blend of synthetic fibers that enhance the media strength and efficiency performance. The best or premium level of filters use microglass filter technology. Advanced micro-glass oil filters are designed to extend the life of vehicle and equipment. In addition to superior filtration media, the other internal and structural components are of higher quality materials, making for easier installation and removal as they are much less prone to crush while installing or removing. Vehicles still under warranty should follow the vehicle manufacturer s recommended filter change intervals.