Courant Community (Vernon Edition) -- January 27, 2022

26.4 MB·English

by  Hartford Courant

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EAST HARTFORD, GLASTONBURY, MANCHESTER, VERNON, SOUTH WINDSOR, STAFFORD
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LOCAL NEWS LOCAL NEWS ry
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Ellington battles Windsor Locks , 2
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Some of the many dishes available at
Gyro Love. SUSAN DUNNE/HARTFORD
COURANT
Gyro Love and Pizza
Pie expand
William Mutraji founded both chains in
2019 with the opening of the Cromwell
location. Page 3
LOCAL NEWS
Locals celebrating
milestones
From a first birthday to a 37th birthday
and everywhere in between, we wish
them all the best. Page 4
LOCAL NEWS
East Hartford planned
projects discussed
Mayor Michael Walsh hosted a
Ellington’s Mike Bontempo takes to the air for two points. Story, more photos, pages 8-9. STEVE SMITH/COURANT COMMUNITY meeting to present his ambitious plans
for the future of the town. Page 5
RATE FREEZE UNTIL Contactusformoreinformation
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2 Society presents program their lives, the adoption process has not Friday Films taking place attendees. Seating is available on a first
7, been simple for Beau and Wilson. Because come, first served basis.
y 2 on genealogy they have specific needs, these two dogs at the Enfield Library Contact the Somers Department of
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ua ENFIELD — WINDSOR — Join have been awaiting their best-fit owners ENFIELD — Friday Films at the Enfield Veterans Affairs for additional information
an renowned international genealogist for months. Due to their unique beginning, Library, 104 Middle Road, will take place at 860-272-4207 or 860-604-0634.
y, J Sandra Taitt-Eaddy for a three-part they can be timid, mistrusting or uncom- in February and March. Visit enfieldpub-
da workshop series designed to demystify fortable in new surroundings. Despite all liclibrary.org or call 860-763-7512 for more Special Olympics presents
rs the process for finding your roots, inside they’ve experienced however, they are information.
hu and outside the United States. Discover both incredibly loving and loyal, and will On Feb. 4, the movie is about a veteran Penguin Plunge events
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ni and receive professional guidance for the over the past three months and has discov- stops, he meets a 10-year-old girl who has STATEWIDE — Registration is open for
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m journey of creating your more complete ered that the real world isn’t so scary after been living with the Kiowa people for Special Olympics Connecticut’s upcoming
m family tree. all,” said Nicole Rodier, Wilson’s foster the last six years. When she is ordered Penguin Plunge events. Visit soct.org for
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C Windsor Historical Society will host this parent. “He is such a good boy that would to return to her family, Kidd decides to more information.
nt virtual program, Seek and Ye Shall Find: make the perfect companion for a low key accompany her. Participants in the Plunge will jump
ra African American and Caribbean Geneal- family that will take him on lots of fun On Feb. 18, the underappreciated into the chilly waters of a lake or Long
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o ogy, in three parts via Zoom from 2 to 3:30 adventures.” personal assistant to a superstar singer Island Sound to support the organiza-
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p.m. on three successive Saturdays: Feb. Both dogs are looking for patient, expe- seizes the opportunity to revitalize her tion’s year-round sports, health and fitness
5, 12, and 19. rienced owners who live in calm and boss’s languishing career—and to realize programs for athletes around the state and
The programs will feature information mature households so they can live like her childhood dream of becoming a music help create communities that accept and
on recovering oral traditions and family the beloved pets that they dedicated their producer. include people of all abilities.
lore, exploring record groups, repositories, youth to saving. Visit DogStarRescue.org On March 4, a family man contends with Visit soct.org, email specialolympicsct@
and ancestral databases, and creating and for more information. Dog Star Rescue, the unthinkable when his daughter calls soct.org or call 203-230-1201 for more
growing your own family tree. based in Bloomfield, is a non-profit orga- him from a French prison, revealing that information. Upcoming Penguin Plunge
Advanced registration is required for nization that places stray, abandoned, she has been charged with murder. Deter- events include the Farmington Penguin
the program. The registration fee is $10 shelter, and owner-surrender dogs of all mined to prove his daughter’s innocence Plunge at Winding Trails on Sunday, Feb.
per session or $25 for the complete work- breeds and ages into qualified, caring, life- to the French courts and secure her free- 13; the Middletown Penguin Plunge at the
shop series. Visit windsorhistoricalsoci- long homes. dom he embarks on an odyssey from rural Polish Falcons Club on Saturday, Feb. 26;
ety.org/eaddy-genealogy1 to register. For Oklahoma to France driven by paternal the Shoreline Penguin Plunge at Ocean
more information, contact the Society Library offering library instinct. Beach Park in New London on Sunday,
at [email protected] or On March 18, follow the rise of Aretha’s March 6; the Fairfield Penguin Plunge
860-688-3813. card sign-up promotion career from a young child singing in her at Jennings Beach on Saturday, April 2;
father’s church choir to her international and Plunge at the Park at Wolfe Park in
Hero hounds ready WINDSOR LOCKS — February is superstardom. This is the remarkable true Monroe on Saturday, April 2.
National Library Lovers’ Month and the story of the music icon’s journey to find
to become forever Windsor Locks Library is offering a library her voice and become the Queen of Soul. FUMC seeking donations
card signup promotion all month long. Films are free and everyone is welcome.
companions
Those with expired cards or who are in Masks are required. Movies start at 2 p.m. for Network Against
BLOOMFIELD — For adoptable dogs need of a card are invited to stop by the and there is no need to register.
Domestic Abuse
Beau and Wilson, puppyhood was far from library, 28 Main St., starting Feb. 1, for a
ordinary. These two-year-old hounds chance to win an air fryer and accompa- Somers Veteran VERNON — STAFFORD SPRINGS —
dedicated the beginning of their lives to nying cookbook. New registrants receive The Women’s Ministry of First United
veterinary research, and for the past few three raffle tickets and renewals receive Coffeehouse showing Methodist Church-Stafford Springs is
months have been living in foster homes one ticket. To be eligible for the raffle, asking for help from the local communities
documentary
provided by Dog Star Rescue, a Bloomfield participants must check out at least one in its annual collection of items for The
rescue organization. item using the new card. SOMERS — Veterans are invited to a Network Against Domestic Abuse.
Starting their lives in a medical facility, Participants can also self-register special showing of USMC Noah Cass’s The collection drive will run until
they each played an integral role in chang- online at www.windsorlockslibrary.org documentary, “Tougher Than a Tank” at Sunday, March 6. First United Method-
ing the way veterinarians treat pets that for a temporary digital library card and the Somers Veterans’ Coffeehouse in the ist Church is located at 8 Church St. The
suffer from shock and traumatic bleed- call the library at 860-627-1495 to confirm Somers Town Hall Auditorium, 600 Main agency has a large wishlist for items to
ing by acting as blood donors. Now, these that they have checked out an ebook to be St. support Julie’s Safe House. A few of the
impressive boys are looking for their entered into the raffle. The movie will be shown from 8:30 to items needed are new women’s under-
forever homes. 11 a.m. Noah Cass, a Somers native, will be
Unfortunately, much like the start of present for a portion of the film to meet Turn to Community News, Page 4
PO Box 569, Hartford, CT 06141-0569 | www.courant.com/community | 860-875-3366 or 888-456-2211
Circulation and delivery News and content submissions To submit Good Neighbor items, Advertising options
If you wish to have the paper stopped, or to Contact Courant Community Editor Erin birthday greetings, engagement or To place a commercial classified ad,
start receiving it, please call 860-525-5555 Quinlan at 860-875-3366, Ext. 3030 or wedding announcements, email call 860-870-3044. For all other advertising
or 800-472-7377, or contact Field Operations [email protected]. [email protected]. needs, call 860-875-3366 or 888-456-2211.
Manager John Wentworth at jwentworth@
courant.com. Send press releases, community events and Send news items by mail to Courant Scan with your smartphone
photos, news tips or letters to the editor to Community, PO Box 569, Hartford, CT to shop at the Hartford Courant
[email protected]. 06141-0569, or by fax to 860-875-9552. Store mobile website.
LOCAL NEWS 3
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By Susan Dunne with lemon, so cheesy it must be eaten with d
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Hartford Courant a fork. y, J
“It sounds weird, lemon on fries, but it a
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Gyro Love, a fast-casual chain of Greek-in- tastes good,” he said. u
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spired restaurants in Connecticut, has opened The other four locations also sell chicken, ry
its fifth location, this one at 2941 Main St. in gyro meat or lamb chop platters; crostini; gyro 2
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Glastonbury. meat pizza; baked feta with sliced bread; tapas , 2
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The restaurants serve American-Mediter- platters; veggie platters; the “grill mix” with a 2
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ranean fusion food. The Glastonbury, South- variety of proteins; and a two-people combo
ington and Cromwell locations have a second with a combination of meats and appetizers.
restaurant inside the building called Pizza Mutraji said after the Glastonbury staff gets
Pie, which serves pizzas, flatbreads, wings up to speed with the rhythm of the restaurant
and salads. The other locations are in Bristol and the computer systems, he will add those
and Newington. dishes to the menu there.
William Mutraji of Farmington founded The new store, which had its soft opening
both chains in 2019 with the opening of the Jan. 7 and will host a grand opening in the
Cromwell location. spring, has tables and chairs but is primar-
“They’re two separate businesses, two ily geared toward takeout. Ordering can be
brands. I thought it was a good idea, some- done online, in kiosks in the store and at the
thing for everyone, like a mall. If the kids want store’s counter. Everything is served in take-
pizza and the parents want Greek food or a out containers even for those who want to
healthy salad, it will make them all happy,” eat in.
he said. “It’s not Greek pizza, it’s Italian.” The Mutraji said that if all goes well and the
kitchens are separate. supply-chain slowdowns — which delayed
Mutraji said the Gyro Love recipes are the opening of the Glastonbury location by
traditional Mediterranean — gathered from about three months — ease up, he hopes to
his travels to Greece, Lebanon and Turkey open six to 10 more Gyro Loves around the
— but with adaptations to make them more state by the end of the year.
attractive to American palates. “So far it is going really well,” Mutraji said.
Gyro Love serves gyro sandwiches with “The customers are really coming out.”
shrimp, falafel or the house gyro meat (beef All of the stores are open Monday to Thurs-
and lamb); hummus; stuffed grape leaves; and day 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11
salads. a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday noon to 8 p.m.
The shop also sells gyro bowls. Each offers The other stores addresses are 751
a base of skin-on French fries, rice or salad; Terryville Ave. in Bristol; 136 Berlin Road in
a protein of chicken, shrimp, falafel or the Cromwell; 832 Queen St. in Southington; and
house gyro meat; and a side of hummus, 337 Willard Ave. in Newington.
eggplant hummus or tzatziki. Baklava is sold More information at gyro.love and wood-
for dessert. firedpizzapie.com.
One standout on the menu is the Greek The Glastonbury location of Gyro Love has a second restaurant inside the building called
fries, a huge portion of skin-on French fries Susan Dunne can be reached at sdunne@ Pizza Pie, which serves pizzas, flatbreads, wings and salads. SUSAN DUNNE / THE HARTFORD
with feta, oregano and olive oil and drizzled courant.com. COURANT
ORTHOPEDICUPDATE
ChadDaniel,MDrecentlyjoinedHartfordOrthopedicSurgeons
andhasuniquefellowshiptraininginadvancedroboticjointreplace-
mentsurgery. Heispassionateaboutcustomizingtherighttreatment
planforhispatients,whetheritbephysicaltherapy,medications,or
jointreplacementsurgery. Foranappointmentcall(860)525-4469.
“Dr. Daniel is highly
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CHADDANIEL,MD ROBERTMcALLISTER,MD ROCKYHILL MANCHESTER AVON WILLIMANTIC ENFIELD
OrthopedicSurgeon OrthopedicSurgeon (Walk-in) (Walk-in) (Walk-in) 5FoundersSt. 9CranbrookBlvd.
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LOCAL NEWS
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27, Community News HAPPY BIRTHDAY
y Visit https://earthblogger.wixsite.com/
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ua from Page 2 vbp2021 for more information.
an Courant Community will print a current birthday photo FREE in one edition. Submit a
y, J current photo and 15-word description including name, age, birthday, town, your name,
da wear, bras, socks, pajamas, sweatshirts, Snowshoe hike taking daytime phone number to [email protected] or to Courant Community, P.O. Box
rs sweatpants, women’s leggings, (includ- 569, Hartford, CT 06141. Please submit three weeks in advance to avoid disappointment.
hu ing plus sizes), diapers, laundry supplies, place at Great Meadows
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y | tpoaipleetr ppalapteers, apnadp ceur ptso,w deislhs,w faaschiaelr t disestuere-, GLASTONBURY — The Land Heritage
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ni gent, flashlights and batteries, juice Coalition of Glastonbury, Inc. will lead its
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m boxes, coffee, tea, cocoa, snacks, hand annual snowshoe hike on Sunday, Jan. 30,
m sanitizer, disposable masks, body wash, through the Glastonbury side of the Great
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C and deodorant. Meadows. Meet at 1 p.m. in the parking
nt Due to health restrictions, they are lot at the Glastonbury side Ferry Landing
ra only able to accept new clothing and (Ferry Lane/Route 160).
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o supplies. For a full list of needed items “This has been a popular hike with a
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and information for hours of drop off, great turnout in past years, and we expect
contact Tanya at [email protected] this one to be no different,” said hike
or 860-209-8024. leader Rich Sawitzke. “No worries about
snow, we’ll hike that day with or without
SW Veterans Banner snow.” Happy 11th Birthday, Edward (1/27): “You Happy 2nd Birthday, Elena (1/28): “Your
The LHC is a non-profit corpora- are amazing and deserve the best in life. smile is the most enchanting, precious thing
Program seeking tion whose mission is to support farm- Love, Grandma.” in the world. Love, Mom, Dad, Lorenzo, Igor.”
ing, open space preservation, and water
nominees
and wetlands protection. As part of their
SOUTH WINDSOR — The South educational mission, the LHC sponsors
Windsor Veterans Banner Program a series of walks throughout the fall and
recognizes veterans living in the commu- winter.
nity, for their service. The program is The hike begins at 1 p.m. at the Glaston-
overseen by the South Windsor Patriotic bury Ferry Landing on the Connecticut
Commission and a student from Timo- River. The plan is to take the small park
thy Edwards Middle School, whose idea loop trail, then branch out into some of
conceived the project. the Great Meadows farmland property
The organizers strongly believe it is north of the landing. The length of the
important for current and future genera- hike will be determined by weather and
tions to understand how sacrifices made snow conditions and the interest of the
by veterans enable the freedoms of today. group. Happy 37th Birthday, Leanne (1/30): Happy 23rd Birthday, Tommy (1/26):
To date, 22 veterans from WWII and Attendees are encouraged to bring “You’re amazing! Lily, Gigi, Ava, Aries, Apollo, “Hope you have an amazing day! We love
the Korean and Vietnam Wars have been their snowshoes, if they have them. While and Mr. Todd.” you! XOXO.”
honored with banners displayed from the hike is relatively level and considered
Memorial Day through Veterans Day at easy to moderate, participants should be
the South Windsor Community Center. agile enough to wear snowshoes — or
Plans are underway for 2022 nomi- navigate deep snow in boots — if condi-
nees. If you are a veteran or know of any tions warrant.
veteran from these eras who is a current The Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry,
resident of South Windsor and willing which will not be running at the time of
to be nominated, call Patriotic Commis- the hike, is a seasonal ferry crossing the
sion members Herb Asplund at 860-644- Connecticut River, and is part of Route
0881 or Daria Plummer at 860-432-8403. 160. It is believed to be the oldest continu-
ously operated ferry service in the United
States.
CROSSWORD ANSWERS The ferry landings and the ferry itself
FOR TODAY’S PUZZLE are included in the Glastonbury-Rocky Happy 3rd Birthday, Avery (1/20): “You Happy 11th Birthday, Jai (2/28): “You are
Hill Ferry Historic District, which was are the sunshine of our lives. Love, Gigi and the twinkle of our eyes. Love from, Mama,
listed in the National Register of Historic Grandpa.” Baba, and Dada.”
Places in 2005.
This hike is open to the public and is
free of charge. There will be beverages
served at the end. Covid-19 Protocol:
Organizers encourage all participants to
be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. They
suggest those who are not vaccinated
wear a mask for the health and safety of
all attending.
Contact Charley Smith for hike infor-
mation or in case of inclement weather at
860-508-1844. Visit www.lhcglastonbury.
org for more information on the Land
Heritage Coalition of Glastonbury. Happy 1st Birthday, Jackson (1/25): “We Happy 6th Birthday, Atharva (1/28):
love you and you always make us smile. “Wish you lots of happiness. Keep smiling.
Turn to Community News, Page 7 Love, Grandpa and Grandma-Lynn.” Love, Mom and Dad.”
LOCAL NEWS 5
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planned projects in town hall meeting Familyowned&operatedshowroom&workroomsince1929 om
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The presentation included several projects, , 2
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including rehabilitation of several buildings 2
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and commercial areas, repurposing some
existing buildings, and creating some new 10%OFFCRYPTON®
developments.
ANDSUNBRELLA®FABRICS*
Among the new ideas is a request for
proposal for a sports bubble, which would be
40%OFFLABOR
a public-private partnership.
“We’ll be seeking people who want to ONREUPHOLSTERY*
run either a sports bubble or a youth center East Hartford Mayor Michael Walsh
*Discounts on labor only apply with purchase of our fabric.
on behalf of the town,” Walsh said. “I would presented plans for town’s future at a Town
like no better than to come to the table with a Hall meeting, including developments on Restrictions may apply!
tax-exempt checkbook and work with a local Silver Lane, improvements at local parks, and
entrepreneur to work out a 20-year operating major renovations at town hall. COURTESY Hartford Showroom & Workroom
agreement.” PHOTO
Walsh said that he hopes to see sports 860-244-3475 3324 Main Street, Hartford
programs and championships return to East Old Lyme ehrlichdecorating.com
Hartford, as they did years ago, before the million and save a year.” 860-434-4242
NotAffiliatedwithEhrlichInteriorsinFarmington
town’s programs’ pace fell behind that of other Repairs and upgrades to town parks are also
towns. in the mayor’s vision. The former “catwalk”
Road renovations are also on the table, bridge that brought pedestrians from the
which Walsh said is the town’s greatest needs. Columbus Circle neighborhood to McAu-
Over
The town spends approximately $5 million liffe Park fell apart due to age and disrepair.
per year on rehabbing local roads. Currently, people travel through two holes in 25Years We Can Help
“We’d like to try to double that to $10 fences on both sides of the train tracks. Experience
million,” Walsh said. “We have a number of Walsh said that the town will be working
large roads - Burnham Street and Long Hill with the DOT on an at-grade crossing that will
Street - that are planned for 2023 that will allow pedestrians to cross the tracks and get
eat that up, in and of itself. But, we want to to the park. Heating,HAeiraCtionngd,itioning,
get to some of those roads that haven’t been One of the largest projects, Walsh said,
touched.” is a monthly newsletter that will go out to
Town hall itself is also in the mayor’s plans, subscribed residents, informing them on all of
Sheet Metal Fabrication
and will need a refit of its HVAC infrastruc- the ongoing and proposed projects, and other Air Conditioning,
ture. town news. The newsletter will be available in
“The town hall you’re sitting in,” the mayor more than 100 languages. • 24-hour emergency service
told attendees, “will need to close from about “What we have here in East Hartford is a
August 2022 to August of 2023. The heating richly diverse community,” Walsh said, “and Sheet Metal Fabrication
• Fully licensed & insured
and cooling is beyond repair.” yet, we all don’t talk the same language. People
Walsh explained that town hall is essen- don’t understand what our ordinances say,
tially three buildings built in 1938, sometime including when to put your trash out and • Commercial/Residential
in the 1950s, and 1968, and that building needs when to put your bulky waste out. This will be • 24-hour emergency
entirely new heating/cooling systems, new available to everybody... so that we can begin to
electrical work, and a new roof. Asbestos and have a discussion about where we move this service
Call for
lead remediation is also needed and the cupola community.”
needs rehabilitation. There are options as to Communication with state legislators, • Fully licensed & insured
how to approach the work. as well as commercial and other partners - FFall Specials!
• Commerical/Residential
“We could do what they call a rolling reno- including Goodwin University and the Hoff-
vation, where we keep sections of town hall man Auto Group - in order to help align the
open for six to eight months at a time,” Walsh town’s plans with those of its businesses and
www.emonds.com
said. “This is $13 million and would impact property owners, is important to the cohesive-
workers and residents for two whole years. ness of the town’s future, Walsh said.
17 Nutmeg Lane,Glastonbury
If we simply close it down, using the lessons “We want to start looking down the road to
we’ve learned from COVID, we will have some make East Hartford the very best community
workers working remotely, we’ll have some we can be,” he said. “I believe East Hartford’s 860-657-4554 7
workers relocated from from town hall at the glass is half full.” 1
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community and cultural center, and it will For more information, visit www.easthart- Lic.#392776 FH
cost $11 million. We could potentially save $2 fordct.gov.
6 REAL ESTATE BUSINESS
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2 Future of Hartford’s
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the largest lots just east of the historic and
HARTFORD — Hartford’s Bushnell recently renovated State Office Building at
South — a long envisioned redevelop- 165 Capitol Ave.
ment of a jumble of parking lots east of The The conversion of 55 Elm is one of the CVS Health is piloting a transportation program with Uber Health to give eligible Hartford-
Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts first in Bushnell South, following the area residents rides to doctor appointments and workforce training. ELISE AMENDOLA | AP
— is taking shape as a developer outlines a construction of the recently completed,
multiyear plan for a key corner across from publicly financed $16 million parking
Bushnell Park. garage. The garage will be used by state CVS Health to offer free rides
Spinnaker Real Estate Partners of employees, the public and as the first step
Norwalk expects to begin a $63 million toward “district” parking for the area.
conversion of the historic, 1926 building Matt Edvardsen, a principal at Spinnaker to eligible Hartford area
at 55 Elm St. — once offices for the state and director of asset management, said the
attorney general and other Constitutional apartment conversion of the 1926 structure,
officers — by the end of March. Plans call which includes an annex, is expected to take residents for doctor visits and
for 160 apartments, co-working space and about two years.
a restaurant for the structure that faces It is likely that midway or so through
Pulaski Circle, the first phase of the devel- the conversion, a second phase along West workforce training programs
opment. Street will get underway. Those plans call
But a larger, master plan submitted to the for 81 rentals and storefront space.
city rounds out the vision for both the build- Another 85 units are also planned later
ing and the parking lots that surround it on along Capitol Avenue, though the timing is By Kenneth R. Gosselin communities where residents don’t have
the northeastern corner of the Bushnell not yet known, Edvardsen said. Hartford Courant easy access to medical care.
South area. The area is bisected by Capitol “The market is going to dictate how “By working with Hartford-based orga-
Avenue. quickly we are going to be able to build HARTFORD — CVS Health Corp., the nizations and Uber Health, we will address
Spinnaker sees new apartment buildings these,” Edvardsen said. “Some time after pharmacy and health insurance giant, said key social determinants of health, including
with storefront space on the those parking [the first two] buildings are delivered and it will launch a pilot program in the Hart- transportation, giving people in need access
lots, first along West Street and later along leased up, we will start the project along ford area on Feb. 1 that will provide free to health care services so they can live
Capitol Avenue. The new buildings, both Capitol.” rides to eligible residents for doctor visits, healthier lives and access to jobs and educa-
five stories high, would bring another 166 Edvardsen said it is still too soon to say workforce development or educational tional programs that can help them reach
apartments to the downtown area. how much additional phases will cost. programs. their full potential,” said Eileen Howard
In the last decade, 2,000 apartments Spinnaker is likely to seek funding through CVS has partnered with Uber Health, Boone, senior vice president of corporate
have been added in and around down- CRDA and a “tax-fixing” agreement with Uber’s health care division, to provide the social responsibility and philanthropy.
town, the majority in converted and some- the city. rides to clients of the Chrysalis Center, the The push to create Health Zones comes
times, vacant and rundown office buildings. The plans call for “green spaces” and Hartford-based nonprofit that provides as CVS and other health care companies
Hundreds more are planned for the near walkways among the buildings and resi- social services. and insurers are challenged to do some-
future. dential amenities such as a pool and deck. The rides will be coordinated through thing about the skyrocketing cost of health
Low-interest loans from the Capi- Edvardsen said the smaller annex to the Chrysalis Center and it is expected that care across the country.
tal Region Development Authority have larger 1926 building will also be converted as many as 1,500 residents could be eligi- The Health Zones initiative targets what
figured significantly into the funding, to rentals, with a ground floor that may hold ble. Free rides would be provided to such CVS sees as the six social “determinants” of
including a $13.5 million loan for 55 Elm. a destination such as a brewery, distillery, services as vaccination appointments, better health: housing, education, access to
The loans are backed by state taxpayers and bakery or coffee roasterie. workforce training programs and medical food, labor, transportation and health care.
funded through the sale of state bonds. Spinnaker, which also is developing the visits. Since 2013, CVS said it has invested $14.8
But downtown apartment development long-vacant corner of Park and Main streets Initially, Chrysalis Center will be given million in affordable housing in Hartford,
is starting to enter a new phase, with new in Hartford for apartments, said it is still $25,000 in the program and clients will be and the health zones provide “wraparound
construction playing a bigger role. The bullish about building more rentals in the given vouchers to pay for the rides. When services” where people can find healthful
massive, North Crossing — formerly DoNo city. the pilot ends, the program will be evalu- food and jobs along with health care.
— project and Bushnell South are prime “From what we understand, most of the ated for additional funding. In addition to Chrysalis Center, the
examples. comparable buildings downtown and just In addition to Hartford, the transpor- Health Zones initiative will work on sepa-
In June, a CRDA unveiled a master plan outside of downtown are fairly leased up tation program is being piloted in Atlanta rate with other community-based organi-
for the entire Bushnell South area. The area and with occupancies in the mid-90s, and and Columbus, Ohio and is expected to be zations in Hartford such as the Charter Oak
could include more than 1,000 apartments, that’s the sign of a pretty healthy market,” expanded into more cities later this year. Health Center, Connecticut Food Bank/
pedestrian promenades, shops, restaurants Edvardsen said. CVS, the parent of Hartford-based health Foodshare, KNOX and YWCA Hartford.
and entertainment venues. insurer Aetna Inc., said the pilot program
And now, as the 55 Elm project gears up, Kenneth R. Gosselin can be reached at is part of its “Health Zones” initiative that Kenneth R. Gosselin can be reached at
CRDA, which has led planning for Bushnell [email protected]. seeks to reduce health care inequities in [email protected].
LOCAL NEWS 7
C
o
u
GOOD NEIGHBOR Community News ra
This month’s specials feature blueberry n
t
from Page 4 pancakes with warm blueberry sauce and lemon C
Your reader-to-reader column pancakes. The upstairs hall now has a library om
which has opened with a special area for reading, m
Author event, game night
FREE playing games, or just visiting with old friends. un
RADIATOR COVERS: Two wooden radiator covers. 63” wide x 10” taking place at Manchester Books are available for a donation to the build- ity
deep, 80” wide x 10” deep. Both 21” high. 860-888-9673. Library ing fund. Call Frank at 860-690-2845 or e-mail | T
SNOW TIRES: Size 225 /50R17. Good tread. 860-875-7140. Leave a [email protected] for more information. h
u
message. MANCHESTER — Larry Rifkin Rifkin was the r
s
ENCYCLOPEDIA SET: Collier’s. Excellent condition. 860-875-7140. programming executive for Connecticut Public Risley Park hike taking place da
LEeXaEvRe CaI mSEe sBsIaKgEe:. Stamina Model 5300U exercise bike with Tfreolmev 1is9i8o6n t (oC 2P0T0V9.) H foer w ovreorte a “ qNuoa rDteera dof A ai cr”e nabtuoruyt, in February y, Ja
n
computer programs. 860-872-6266. his experiences working at the station. He will u
a
share tales from his career at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. VERNON — The public is invited to a free ry
QUESTIONS 31, at Manchester Public Library, 586 Main St. 1.5-mile hike on Saturday, Feb. 5, starting at 1 p.m. 2
7
FOUND: Baseball Card in protective plastic cover found in Copies of his book will be available for purchase at Risley Park, 366 Lake St., a parking lot just east , 2
0
Marlborough, Connecticut in 2014, unintentionally tucked away, and and signing. No registration is required for this of the pond. 2
2
recently uncovered. Send an email to [email protected] with an free event for adults. Risley Park spans 155.3 acres in Vernon and
accurate description of the card, and we’ll get it back to the owner. Under his leadership, CPTV amassed over Bolton, and hosts a section of the Shenipsit Trail,
CLOWNS: Seeking clowns of all sizes to cheer up a sick child. 50 Emmy Awards in the Boston/New England part of the Blue Trail system of the Connecti-
Contact Ron at 860-613-0860. competition. Rifkin was inducted into the cut Forest and Park Association. The property
TILES: Seeking 115 ceramic tiles, two inches by two inches. Any Boston/New England Silver Circle in 2006. This includes several trails, a former apple orchard,
color. 860-432-8050. is the regional television equivalent of a Lifetime farmland, pond, dam, and meadow.
SEEKING TO RENT: At least 1,500 to 2,000 sq. ft. of cold storage. Achievement Award. The hike will be moderately paced over rough
Rocky at 860-490-3816 or 860-872-6269. He was a skilled on air presenter on CPTV and and steep terrain, with some wet spots. Hikers
RECORDS: Seeking classical music vinyl albums for record player. returned to his radio roots full-time back in 2010 should wear sturdy shoes or boots, bring hiking
860-680-1299. as host of ‘Talk of the Town’ on WATR 1320 for poles if they have them, and expect to be on the
DRONE FOUND: Vicinity of Elm St & Courtney Drive, Rocky Hill. Text a seven year period. He now hosts the podcast, trail for about 90 minutes. No dogs and extreme
with description for return. 860-402-2655. americatrendspodcast.com, where he looks at weather cancels.
FOUND EYEGLASSES: Eyeglasses found on Carriage Drive, changes in society and politics. Visit http://library. Visit www.manchesterlandtrust.org for more
Manchester. 860-646-4242. townofmanchester.org or call 860-643-2471 for information or to check on the weather. The hike
CPAP Machine: Senior in need of an inexpensive but working CPAP more information. is co-sponsored by the Manchester Land Conser-
machine. 860-512-0684. The Silk City Board Game Group will meet from vation Trust, which owns the property, along with
AUTO MECHANIC: Seeking auto mechanic to repair pickup truck. noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Manches- the Manchester Water Department and the CT
Am senior citizen, phone with reasonable price. 860-796-6132. ter Public Library. Volunteers will teach Burgle Forest and Park Association. Families and chil-
FURNITURE: Seeking a light wooden chest having five drawers in Bros. 2, Ark Nova, Mandala Stones and Terra- dren are welcome.
good condition. Call after 5 p.m. 860-665-0141. forming Mars: Ares Expedition. The library will
LOST BRACELET: Bracelet lost at ALDIs of Rocky Hill by carriages. It provide the games. The Love On Band to perform
was a birthday gift. Call if found. 860-778-8556. This is a free program for adults. Light refresh-
PUZZLE SWAP: Will meet halfway if too far to go. Have 20, most ments to be served. No registration is required for ROCKVILLE — Jacob’s Well Coffeehouse,
new. 860-568-1378. this event. Visit http://library.townofmanchester. downtown Rockville’s monthly Christian night-
SEEKING ITEMS FOR GAS ENGINE: Need flywheel and electric org for more information. club, will feature The Love On Band from Elling-
starter for 8 H.P. Briggs and Stratton gas engine. 860-633-5329. ton on Friday, Feb. 4. Doors open at 7 p.m. with
SEEKING: Small boat trailer for a 12’ boat, will buy. 860-741-2633. Hillstown Grange hosting live music starting at 7:30 p.m. The event will be
NECKLACE FOUND: On Carillon Drive, Rocky Hill. Call with held either in the Union Church sanctuary or The
description for return. 860-965-6672. Messages will be returned. soup, garden seed event; Oasis storefront at 3 Elm St., depending on appro-
SNOW SHOVELING HELP: Senior looking for an individual to priate Coronavirus precautions. Admission is free
pancake breakfast
shovel out parking space and clean off car after snow storms in and dress is casual.
Collinsville. 860-305-6701. EAST HARTFORD — The Hillstown Grange, The Love On Band features Kurt Ruckersfeldt
CAR: Seeking automobile to help out with transportation in 2022. 617 Hills St., is holding a homemade soup and on bass, Danny Petrozza on vocals and keyboards,
Elderly with low Social Security. 860-515-1488. garden seed event on Thursday, Feb. 3. Doors open and Mike Savelyev on acoustic guitar. The band’s
LAPTOPS: Collecting used or new laptops from kind donors. These at 6 p.m. for a take-out dinner of homemade soups music is a mix of contemporary Christian music
laptops will be donated to school kids in Ghana. Contact Ben, 423- for $5. The snow date is Feb. 10. to ballads, country, gospel, praise and worship.
676-8815. All gardeners are invited to the Agricultural Petrozza serves as a deacon, singer and
NAUTICAL ROPE: Looking for free 1/2- or 3/4-inch nautical rope for Committee’s free seeds giveaway and announce- keyboardist at Ellington Baptist Church. Savel-
DIY projects. 860-490-8956. ment of this year’s gardening contests for the yev is the associate pastor and worship leader at
PROPANE: Seeking propane Salamander. Will pay a reasonable Sept. 10 Agricultural Fair. Over 300 seed packets Somers Baptist Church. Ruckersfeldt, an accom-
price. 860-749-2190. are available to choose from and are limited to 12 plished bass player nationally, is a deacon and lead
LAWN MOWING, SNOW REMOVAL: packets per person. Admission is free. bassist for the worship team at Ellington Baptist
Does anyone know of someone who mows grass and/or plows Seeds were donated so there is no charge Church.
snow? 860-289-0101 after 5 p.m. while they last. Bring your favorite seed catalogs The event will also be live streamed and
CAR: Seeking a donated good running car for elderly person in to share. Master Gardeners will be announcing archived on the “Jacobs Well Coffeehouse”
Putnam for doctor appointments. Cannot afford one. 508-335- upcoming gardening classes. YouTube Channel. For details, visit www.
5060. Leave a message. Organizers are taking all Covid safety precau- JacobsWellCoffeehouse.com or call 860-871-6500.
tions and may restrict the number of people in the In case of bad weather, a cancellation notice will
Be a good neighbor hall and time spent. Masks are required. Doors be broadcast on WFSB-TV 3.
To submit, send an email to [email protected] or mail close at 7:30 p.m.
to 285 Broad St., Hartford, CT 06115. Good Neighbor is a service The Grange’s mid-winter pancake breakfast will Library Friends to meet in
by Courant Community. Questions and answers are provided by take place from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 5. The
our readers and are not verified. Medical information cannot be menu will feature pancakes, sausage, coffee, tea February
published. Caution should be exercised at all times. The publisher is and juice, all for $5 for adults and $3 for children
not responsible for damage to any person or property. 14 and under. Turn to Community News, Page 10
8 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 9
2 C
2 o
0 u
7, 2 Knights get comeback win over Raiders ran
2 t
y C
ar o
u m
n m
a By Steve Smith
J u
ay, Courant Community nit
ursd ELLINGTON — Although they didn’t lead in the game y | T
h until just more than five minutes remaining in the fourth h
T u
ty | q10u-aproteinr,t t whein E ollvinerg tWonin Kdnsoigrh Ltso craklsl,i eodn aJnand. t 1o8o.k a deficit to a rsda
uni With standout junior Jaydon Buckle leading the way, the y, J
m Raiders got out to a lead early, and seemed to counter every an
om Ellington point with one or more of their own, going into the ua
C locker room at the half up 27-20. Windsor Locks standout Jaydon Buckle ry
nt The Knights came out more aggressively in the second carries the ball toward the hoop, against 27
ura half, slowly narrowing the gap and taking a 35-34 lead with Ellington. , 20
Co 5:07 remaining in the game. With 19 total points in the fourth 22
quarter, Ellington didn’t look back and finished the game
50-40 over Windsor Locks.
Raiders coach Dan Copes said Ellington definitely played
harder in the second half and keyed on Buckle.
“They did some things to make us uncomfortable,” he
said. “They came out in the second half and wanted to push
us around. We know with Jaydon out there, that’s the recipe, Windsor Locks’ Jaydon Buckle gets crowded out of a shooting attempt by three Ellington
and the message has gone out to the rest of the league.” defenders.
But Ellington coach Robert Freitas said it wasn’t so much
about stopping Buckle, but forcing the other Raiders to try
to make plays.
“We made some adjustments on matchups and it worked
out well,” he said. “I don’t think it was taking [Buckle] out. He
is going to get his. I think it was about making the other guys
not beat us. Eventually, he can’t do it all himself.”
The Knights improved to 6-2 for the season and Windsor
Locks fell to 3-4.
Freitas said his team’s first half play was good, just didn’t
happen to supply enough offense.
“I thought, defensively, we were fine. We just didn’t knock
down enough shots,” he said. “We need to continue to battle.
I think we were much better in the second half, defensively,
and we kept crawling back in.”
Freitas said his team this year is made up of “good kids.”
“They are just kids who never give up. They play until the
end,” Freitas said. “You can see it in the way they play. They Ellington’s Mike Bontempo takes to the air for two points.
play together and it’s gotten some results for us so far.”
Copes said he expects his team to improve, and will build
upon the players’ collective talents. keep working on our decision-making, finding the proper
“One of the keys was our defense in the first half was shots, and executing on offense.”
outstanding,” he said. “We held them to 20 points, and then For more information, including complete schedules and
we just didn’t stay in front of anybody in the second half. results, visit www.ciacsports.com. Jahieme Thomas, of Windsor Locks, takes Ellington’s Darren Zahner gets vertical and Malike Hassani takes a shot amidst a
We’ll be shoring up some of the little things, and teaching For more photos, visit www.courant.com/community/ a look at the bucket, as Ellington’s Nicolas gets two points. crowd of Ellington defenders.
consistency. We are extremely athletic, and we’ve just got to ellington. Issihjah Stephenson, of Windsor Locks, and Mike Bontempo, of Ellington, compete for a rebound. STEVE SMITH PHOTOS Monteleone closes in.
OrderThrough
Commmuunity
OurWebsite
Share Your Town Listen to our top news andReceive
¢
2 Off!
stories for free.
www.a1-oil.com
24 Hour Emergency Burner Service
Boiler/Furnace Installations
Staying in the know is easy.
KeepingOurNeighborsWarmOver55Years Service Contracts
Eachweekday,you’llgetthelateststoriescuratedbyoureditors • Full Service Fuel Co.
Furnace Installations •Volume Discounts
onyoursmartspeakerorstreamingservice.
ADOPT • Automatic Oil Delivery
AvailableonAmazonEcho,AppleMusic,GoogleHome,Spotifyandmore. Tank/HotWater Heater Installations
Rachael StartnowatPlayOurNews.com ME! • Maintenance Plan Only $196(PTALUX)S
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TopDogContestinTown! • Affordable Oil Plans
Sendyourtown
• Free Estimates A+ Automatic DeliveryAvailable
+
newsandphotosto: 860-875-6281 860-627-9474
[email protected] 221WestMainSt.Vernon,CT
TribunePublishingCompany Lic.#308294-S3 HOD#257 CT.License#1129835 HOD#480
8 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 9
2 C
2 o
0 u
7, 2 Knights get comeback win over Raiders ran
2 t
y C
ar o
u m
n m
a By Steve Smith
J u
ay, Courant Community nit
ursd ELLINGTON — Although they didn’t lead in the game y | T
h until just more than five minutes remaining in the fourth h
T u
ty | q10u-aproteinr,t t whein E ollvinerg tWonin Kdnsoigrh Ltso craklsl,i eodn aJnand. t 1o8o.k a deficit to a rsda
uni With standout junior Jaydon Buckle leading the way, the y, J
m Raiders got out to a lead early, and seemed to counter every an
om Ellington point with one or more of their own, going into the ua
C locker room at the half up 27-20. Windsor Locks standout Jaydon Buckle ry
nt The Knights came out more aggressively in the second carries the ball toward the hoop, against 27
ura half, slowly narrowing the gap and taking a 35-34 lead with Ellington. , 20
Co 5:07 remaining in the game. With 19 total points in the fourth 22
quarter, Ellington didn’t look back and finished the game
50-40 over Windsor Locks.
Raiders coach Dan Copes said Ellington definitely played
harder in the second half and keyed on Buckle.
“They did some things to make us uncomfortable,” he
said. “They came out in the second half and wanted to push
us around. We know with Jaydon out there, that’s the recipe, Windsor Locks’ Jaydon Buckle gets crowded out of a shooting attempt by three Ellington
and the message has gone out to the rest of the league.” defenders.
But Ellington coach Robert Freitas said it wasn’t so much
about stopping Buckle, but forcing the other Raiders to try
to make plays.
“We made some adjustments on matchups and it worked
out well,” he said. “I don’t think it was taking [Buckle] out. He
is going to get his. I think it was about making the other guys
not beat us. Eventually, he can’t do it all himself.”
The Knights improved to 6-2 for the season and Windsor
Locks fell to 3-4.
Freitas said his team’s first half play was good, just didn’t
happen to supply enough offense.
“I thought, defensively, we were fine. We just didn’t knock
down enough shots,” he said. “We need to continue to battle.
I think we were much better in the second half, defensively,
and we kept crawling back in.”
Freitas said his team this year is made up of “good kids.”
“They are just kids who never give up. They play until the
end,” Freitas said. “You can see it in the way they play. They Ellington’s Mike Bontempo takes to the air for two points.
play together and it’s gotten some results for us so far.”
Copes said he expects his team to improve, and will build
upon the players’ collective talents. keep working on our decision-making, finding the proper
“One of the keys was our defense in the first half was shots, and executing on offense.”
outstanding,” he said. “We held them to 20 points, and then For more information, including complete schedules and
we just didn’t stay in front of anybody in the second half. results, visit www.ciacsports.com. Jahieme Thomas, of Windsor Locks, takes Ellington’s Darren Zahner gets vertical and Malike Hassani takes a shot amidst a
We’ll be shoring up some of the little things, and teaching For more photos, visit www.courant.com/community/ a look at the bucket, as Ellington’s Nicolas gets two points. crowd of Ellington defenders.
consistency. We are extremely athletic, and we’ve just got to ellington. Issihjah Stephenson, of Windsor Locks, and Mike Bontempo, of Ellington, compete for a rebound. STEVE SMITH PHOTOS Monteleone closes in.
OrderThrough
Commmuunity
OurWebsite
Share Your Town Listen to our top news andReceive
¢
2 Off!
stories for free.
www.a1-oil.com
24 Hour Emergency Burner Service
Boiler/Furnace Installations
Staying in the know is easy.
KeepingOurNeighborsWarmOver55Years Service Contracts
Eachweekday,you’llgetthelateststoriescuratedbyoureditors • Full Service Fuel Co.
Furnace Installations •Volume Discounts
onyoursmartspeakerorstreamingservice.
ADOPT • Automatic Oil Delivery
AvailableonAmazonEcho,AppleMusic,GoogleHome,Spotifyandmore. Tank/HotWater Heater Installations
Rachael StartnowatPlayOurNews.com ME! • Maintenance Plan Only $196(PTALUX)S
Same Day Delivery
TopDogContestinTown! • Affordable Oil Plans
Sendyourtown
• Free Estimates A+ Automatic DeliveryAvailable
+
newsandphotosto: 860-875-6281 860-627-9474
[email protected] 221WestMainSt.Vernon,CT
TribunePublishingCompany Lic.#308294-S3 HOD#257 CT.License#1129835 HOD#480
10 LOCAL NEWS
2
2
0
2
27, CROSSWORD Solution located elsewhere in this section Community News While in Recovery’
y
r
ua from Page 7 SIMSBURY — For most students,
an attending college is an exciting time,
y, J a time for gaining independence,
a VERNON — The Friends of Rock- making new friends, and transition-
d
rs ville Public Library hope to hold their ing into adulthood. For others, it can
u
h first meeting of 2022 on Thursday, be overwhelming, especially for some-
T
y | Finegb .r o3o, amt onfo tohne ilnib trhaer yfi, r5s2t Uflnooiorn m Set.et- odniseo rrdeecro.vering from a substance use
t
ni Guests are asked to provide their To help families plan for a success-
u
m own lunch, drinks and snacks. Call the ful transition to college, the Simsbury
m library at 860-875-5892 to find out the nonprofit, A Promise to Jordan, will
o
C status of the meeting. present “Making College Work While
nt in Recovery”, on Monday, Feb. 7, from
ura Library presents 6 to 8 p.m.
o The presentation will take place
C
programs on notable at The Barn at Covenant Presbyte-
rian Church, 124 Old Farms Road,
African-Americans
and all local restrictions with regard
AVON — WETHERSFIELD — The to the coronavirus pandemic will be
Wethersfield Library, 515 Silas Deane followed. For anyone preferring to
Highway, is hosting the following attend virtually, the presentation will
programs. Visit https://www.wethers- also be available via Zoom.
fieldlibrary.org/ or call 860-529-2665 The program will be led by Joel
for more information. Singer, Ph.D., Founder and Manag-
Black Citizenship in the Age of ing Partner of Wayfinder Consulting.
Jim Crow will take place virtually on Singer is a former history teacher and
Thursday, Feb. 17, from 6:30 to 7:30 varsity coach, as well as an academic
p.m. Email library@wethersfieldli- and career consultant. Dr. Singer also
brary.org to register. Based on the New leads the team currently providing life
York Historical Society’s 2018-19 exhi- coaching services to individuals recov-
bition, this virtual program explores ering from opioid use disorder through
Black Americans’ struggle for equal- a program being offered by A Promise
ity under the law from 1865 through to Jordan.
WWI. Learn about both Southern and Singer will advise attendees on how
Northern roles in this dark chapter of to have a traditional college experi-
history as well as the Black New York- ence while remaining abstinent, and
ers’ organizing and community-build- keeping abstinence as the top priority
ing in the face of discrimination. while performing academically, as well
Connecticut’s Inspiring Afri- as share campus resources and other
can-American Women will take tips. Visit www.apromisetojordan.org
place virtually on Thursday, Feb. 24, or email [email protected]
from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Email library@ for more information.
wethersfieldlibrary.org to register. The
Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame First Church West
will present an interactive multimedia
program about some of Connecticut’s Hartford calls first
most remarkable African-American
female senior pastor
heroines.
WEST HARTFORD — During a
Gallery on the Green season of transitions at First Church,
West Hartford, the excitement of the
presents “Be Mine!” moment is that the town’s 309-year-old
Congregational Church has called Rev.
exhibit
Jane Willan as its 21st senior pastor.
CANTON — Gallery on the Green “In its more than 300 year history
will present a themed exhibition “Be First Church has seen lots of change
Mine!” plus two solo shows by Steph- and growth: five different meet-
anie Rogers and Susan Bradley from ing houses, 20 pastors, and several
Friday, Feb. 11, through Saturday, interim leaders, but never a female in
March 12. the settled senior pastor position,” said
The gallery is located at 5 Canton current church moderator Eleanor
Green Road. Call 860-693-4102 or visit Wight. “We are very excited for this
www.galleryonthegreen.org for more change, and we believe West Hartford
information. is ready.”
Rev. Willan delivered a Candidat-
Nonprofit hosting ing Sermon at First Church on Jan. 9.
Following worship, church members
‘Making College Work
Turn to Community News, Page 11