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High School Notebook ‘Grateful’ Centaurs enjoy abbreviated hockey season

BY KEN POWERS ment was right on the mark. SPORTS CORRESPONDENT “This was my first year WOODSTOCK — What a as a head coach, so I still long, strange trip it’s been. don’t even know what a typ- The Woodstock Academy ical season even looks like,” girls’ ice hockey team didn’t said the 25-year-old Millar, exist when the Grateful Dead who arrived in Woodstock wrote that lyric as part of in July from her hometown, the song “Truckin’” in 1970. which is located just north The lyric, however, does of Toronto, the capital city accurately describe the wild- of the Canadian province of ness and wackiness of the Ontario. Centaurs’ 2020-21 season. The Centaurs finished the In a game recap follow- season with a 1-2 record. ing the team’s final game, a Because of the global coro- 3-1 loss to the Connecticut navirus pandemic and all Northern Lights Girls’ the protocols put in place as Hockey Program on Sunday, a result of the outbreak of March 21, Woodstock the COVID-19 virus, Millar’s Academy sports informa- team, which competes in tion director Marc Allard the Central Mass. Hockey referred to the year as an League, was not allowed to “abbreviated, pandemic-pro- play any games outside of Photo Courtesy tocol-interrupted season.” Connecticut. The Woodstock Academy girls’ ice hockey team celebrated senior night recently, honoring its upperclassmen, Centaurs’ coach Maddie from left, Kileigh Gagnon, Ciara MacKinnon, Maddie Silbermann, Eliza Dutson, and Lizzie Silbermann. A sixth Millar said Allard’s assess- Please Read CENTAURS, page ­A5 senior, Maria Santucci, was unavailable at the time the picture was taken.

Woodstock Academy students serving the community WOODSTOCK — It is “From being in B Club, I she said. important in today’s education have learned a lot about giving Like so many who attend to go beyond the classroom. back to my community and The Woodstock Academy, Fortunately at The Woodstock being involved with people MacWilliams added that Academy, there are plenty of in it,” Woodstock Academy she started to understand former students who are in junior Sydney Haskins said. the importance of commu- positions to help the current “This will stay with me in my nity while in school and has students understand their future, and I will always do since built on that sense of world even better than from what I can to help others.” unity, bringing it with her to just a book. After the talk and tour, the Christopher’s Haven. It is just Recently the B Club at The B club made a donation to one example of the sense of car- Woodstock Academy paid a Christopher’s Haven. ing that Woodstock Academy virtual visit to Christopher’s Christopher’s Haven is works diligently to instill in its Haven, a home in Boston pro- run by WA alumna Catie student body. viding support and a sense of MacWilliams. MacWilliams The B Club is one of sev- community for children and first connected with B Club in eral school organizations that their families while they battle 2016 at a difficult time when are designed to not only have cancer. B Club students took her son was battling a brain a positive influence with- Killingly a virtual tour of the facility tumor. “The B club was gener- in The Woodstock Academy and developed a greater under- ous enough and worked end- community but to also extend standing and compassion for lessly to make sure we had their reach beyond the hal- the challenges these families money to help us pay for med- among towns to face. ical bills. It was a blessing,” Please Read COMMUNITY, page ­A10 host mobile Woodstock school buses soon vaccination unit

to have dash cams BY JASON BLEAU We will continue to take every CONTRIBUTING WRITER step possible, working with KILLINGLY – Killingly is one our network of vaccine provid- of seventeen communities in ers, and with the support of Connecticut chosen to host one our Congressional delegation to of FEMA’s mobile vaccination ensure our distribution is equi- units that debuted in March. table and touching every corner In a release from Gov. Ned of our state.” Lamont’s office on March According to the Governor, 29 providing updates on the state is working with local Connecticut’s continued fight partners to target high-risk and against COVID-19, the full list vulnerable populations to make of communities that will host them aware of the mobile vac- the mobile vaccination units cination unit and scheduling designed to help increase appointments. Medical staff- access to vaccines to fight the ing will be provided by UConn pandemic was revealed with Health, Griffin Health, Hartford Killingly as the sole participant HealthCare, and Trinity Health in the Quiet Corner area. The of New England with the two-trailer unit will be travel- National Guard also expected ing across the state over the to staff the unit with non-clin- next two months. ical personnel. The unit is “The partnership with FEMA expected to provide at least 250 Photo Courtesy and the federal government has vaccinations a day utilizing the Pictured, left to right: Jen Beams, Leslie Holland, George McCoy, Jerilyn Dupuis and Dr. Jeff Gordon. been exceptional, providing single-dose Johnson & Johnson support to our state during this vaccine. BY JEFFREY GORDON buses in an effort to catch motorists who As of April 5, Connecticut WOODSTOCK SAFETY PATROL critical time as we continue to unlawfully pass school buses during pick-ups move as fast as possible to vac- recorded 314,000 cases of AND GEORGE MCCOY and drop offs. cinate as many residents as we COVID-19 and 7,904 deaths. DATTCO TRANSPORTATION McCoy at that time was also president of can,” Governor Lamont said in Windham County recorded 9,941 cases with 188 cases to WOODSTOCK — When a Woodstock school the Woodstock Safety Patrol and quickly a statement. “This first-in-the- recruited local resident Leslie Holland for the nation mobile vaccination unit date. Statistics show that more bus was passed on the passenger loading than 23 percent of Connecticut side last fall by an irate motorist, bus driver task. It soon became apparent to Ms. Holland is a vital tool in our toolbox that following school buses might not be the to reach communities across residents have been fully vac- George McCoy made an offer to his super- cinated against the virus, while visor, Dattco Transportation Woodstock most effective way to catch red light viola- Connecticut which have been disproportionately impacted nearly 40 percent have received Terminal Manager Jerilyn Dupuis, to have at least one dose of the vaccine. the Woodstock Safety Patrol shadow school Please Read DASH CAM, page ­A6 by the COVID-19 pandemic. A2 • Friday, April 9, 2021 Villager Newspapers News from Aprils past

for its time. If you have not seen it, take on November 15, 1920 in Hartford. He York evening papers…If Danielson a drive some day. You’ll be pleasantly was 58 years old. (Nov. 18, 1920, p. 18; doesn’t want a summer during which surprised. newspapers.com). Taylor was interred passenger train service on the New Killingly In 1921, as more families were pur- in Grove Street Cemetery in Putnam. Haven road will mean very little in chasing and driving automobiles, much (findagrave;ancestry.com). the way of what is left of the service, it at 300 construction was being done to improve One hundred years ago the trains might be well to hold a few mass prayer the roads of the State. “Attention is were frequent visitors to Killingly and meetings; apparently nothing else will being given to the repair of the state Putnam. Most families did not yet have help avert an arrangement that will MARGARET highway between Danielson and automobiles. “Manufacturing and busi- be highly irritating in delaying mails, WEAVER Brooklyn, which has become a much ness interests here were discussing in depriving patrons of the road of the traveled route and which will be a part Wednesday a tentative schedule for pas- most popular trains and in otherwise of the main line to Willimantic as soon senger train service on the New Haven upsetting what have come to be consid- I thought that I’d extract some tid- as the state road between Brooklyn and road through this place to be inaugurat- ered as normal conditions because New bits of items in the news in Aprils Hampton, now under construction, is ed April 24. A few like it, but the great York, Providence and other cities are past. I’m writing this version on April completed.” (Norwich Bulletin, April majority do not... As near as could be still monkeying with the daylight sav- 2, a cold morning in the low thirties, 14, 1921, p. 6; newspapers.com) learned on Wednesday, and the follow- ing bugaboo.” (Norwich Bulletin, April with a few snow flakes. The follow- “Legislators paused in their work at ing data is not represented as being 14, 1921, p. 6; newspapers.com). ing seems appropriate. “A storm that Hartford Tuesday to pay a tribute to the official, Danielson’s train service on The same edition of the paper had the covered the ground with the ‘beauti- late ‘Souvenir’ William Harrison Taylor and after April 24 and for the summer following: “Daylight saving will not fig- ful snow’ occurred Tuesday, April 4, of this city (Putnam) and Hartford, for season is intended to be something like ure much in the scheme of things in the followed by rain all day Wednesday. years a familiar figure about the cap- this: Northbound passenger trains, 6.47 town of Killingly this year. No manu- (Windham County Transcript, April 6, itol and one of the most kindly and a.m., 9.41 a.m., 4.10 p.m.; southbound facturing plant will pay any recognition 1911). “A weather reporter writes: In genial men that ever trod its marble trains, 10.25 a.m., 2.17 p.m., 7.47 p.m. at all to it and very few persons will 19 years there has not been such a cold halls. The house adopted a resolution, If the foregoing is the intended sched- of their own accord place themselves April 1 and 2. The mercury has been drawn by a special committee of which ule, or if it is approximately correct, it on that basis of recording the flight of below freezing both mornings. April Representative Luther M. Keith of this is certain to impose many and varied time.” Does that sound familiar? One 3rd it was only 16 degrees above zero city (Putnam) was a member, of respect inconveniences on the local public. In hundred years later states are still at 6 o’clock a.m. “ (WCT, April 6, 1911). to the memory of William Harrison the first place it eliminates both of the debating the benefits and drawbacks of (Well, my high for April 2, 2021 was Taylor. The resolution set forth that the present early evening trains, one north- changing the clocks. only 37! Thank goodness it’s sunny and members of the house expressed sorrow bound the other southbound. The loss of The mail and answering machine are warmer as I proofread this column). in the loss they have sustained being the early evening southbound train will being checked on a regular basis (usu- Telephones are such a part of our deprived of the genial companionship impose particularly severe hardships, ally Wednesday) although the Killingly everyday lives that we might forget that of William Harrison Taylor of Putnam, inasmuch as this train is the mail and Historical and Genealogical Center is that was not the case in the early 1900’s. enjoyed through many sessions. newspaper train, bringing in Boston, closed to the public. Please send an “East Killingly – The new telephone Tokens of remembrance from him in Providence, Worcester and Hartford email to the director or leave a message line on the North Road is completed commemoration of holidays and other papers as well as a heavy amount of on the answering machine if you would and the new numbers are: George S. memorial occasions found on the desk mail matter. This train, too, has always like to donate items or have research Shippee, 24-4; Arnold P. Rich, 24-3; of every member gain him his name of been one of the most popular on the line questions. Harry E. Battey, 24-2; S. W. Anderson, ‘Souvenir’ and as ‘Souvenir’ Taylor he for the traveling public, getting many 24-1.”(WCT April 20, 1911). I’m sure is affectionately known among mem- home after a day’s visit out of town or Margaret M. Weaver Killingly many of you recall the old party lines. bers and former members of the legisla- binging back those who are obliged to Municipal Historian, April, 2021. If you have ever driven down ture. The secretary of state was autho- travel in connection with their work Special thanks to Marilyn Labbe for Morin Avenue in the Danielson sec- rized and requested to forward a copy at the end of the day’s labor. It will be Windham County Transcript extracts. tion of Killingly, you will have seen of the resolution to George H. Taylor replaced, it is said, by a 2.17 train--- For additional information email me at the beautiful stone complex referred and Grace A. Richards, father and running in the middle of the afternoon- [email protected] or visit to as “the Gables.” I believe that is daughter, respectively, of Mr. Taylor; --when few people are traveling and the Killingly Historical & Genealogical what this Norwich Bulletin article is and in further respect to his memory, when mails are lighter than in the early Center Wed. or Sat. 10-4 (when it reopens) referring to. Note the name before its the house voted to adjourn.” (Norwich evening. It isn’t going to be very pleas- or www.killinglyhistorical.org. or call completion. “At Connecticut Village, Bulletin, April 14, 1921, p. 6; newspa- ant for a great many Danielson people 860-779-7250 (when the Historical Center construction work is continuing on pers.com). Harrison was known for his to know that the boat train which will reopens). Like us at Facebook at www. buildings that are partly completed. illustrated editions of Connecticut’s bring in the mails and newspapers, will facebook.com/killinglyhistoricalsoci- The Cloister, a 27-apartment house, will Legislative leaders, such as Souvenir not arrive here until 7.47 p.m., at which ety. Mail for the Killingly Historical not be finished before summer, it is of the Capitol 1899-1900. Other volumes, time, incidentally, the post office will be & Genealogical Society, Inc. or the believed.” (Norwich Bulletin, April 12, including 1905 Taylor’s Connecticut closed…People will appreciate having Killingly Historical and Genealogical 1921, p. 6; newspapers.com). The Tudor Legislative History and Souvenir, Vol. a northbound train at 4.10 p.m… , but Center should be sent to PO Box 265, Revival mill housing in that village of 6 (1907-1908), can be seen by making their appreciation will be more than Danielson, CT 06329. Connecticut Mills/later Powdrell and an internet search. According to the counterbalanced by the loss of the early Alexander is considered very unique Hartford Courant Taylor died suddenly evening train, which brings in New Minority Health Conference Villager Almanac looks at COVID-19, At CT Audubon racial health disparities Bird sightings at the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Pomfret and Wyndham Land Trust properties for WILLIMANTIC — In obser- tinyurl.com/MHConfDay1. the need for a focused dialogue the week of March 29: Bald Eagle, Black Vulture, Turkey vance of National Minority Health People from racial/ethnic on racial and ethnic health dis- Vulture, American Woodcock, Tree Swallow, Wood Duck, Month, Eastern Connecticut State groups are at increased risk parities in Connecticut, and the Field Sparrow, American Kestrel, Ring-necked Duck, University will host a Minority of getting sick and dying from work being done to improve our Killdeer, Flicker, Mockingbird, Bluebird, Robin, Red- Health Conference on April 5 and COVID-19, yet despite vaccination state health and prioritize health winged Blackbird, Junco, Wild Turkey. Visit ctaudubon. April 8 that examines COVID- roll-out in Connecticut, research equity. org/pomfret-home. 19’s disproportionate impact on shows that these vulnerable com- Speakers include Liany E. people of color and racial/eth- munities are the least likely to Arroyo, director of Hartford’s nic health disparities in general be vaccinated due to inequitable Department of Health and Human across Connecticut. The virtual distribution of information and Services; Rosana Ferraro, policy conference will feature state and vaccine availability. and program officer for Universal Woodstock • Public • Schools local health officials and is free This session will feature Keith Healthcare at the Foundation of 2021 – 2022 Kindergarten Registration and open to the public. Grant, senior system director of Connecticut; Lacoy Brown ‘20, “The purpose of this confer- Infection Prevention at Hartford COVID-19 contact tracing super- Woodstock Elementary School invites all families with Kindergarten ence is to engage students and Healthcare. Sponsors include The visor and Eastern alumna; and eligible students to register for the 2021-2022 school year. All students the local community on issues Office of Governor Ned Lamont; Erica Watson, biology lecturer turning five years old before December 31, 2021 are eligible for entry that affect minority health based Health Equity Solutions; and at Eastern whose work concerns into our full-day Kindergarten program. on social determinants of health,” Premier Consultant Services racial health disparities and Registration packets can be obtained by calling the main office at said Harley Webley, Eastern stu- (LLC). anti-racist advocacy. 860-928-0471 or by email at [email protected] dent and conference organizer. The April 8 session is titled Eastern’s first Minority Health Completed registration packets can be submitted in person at “Come hear expert knowledge on “Complex Realities: Minority Conference is inspired by stu- Woodstock Elementary School the week of May 24th these issues and be part of engag- Health Disparities in the United dent Harley Webley in collabora- between 8am and 4pm or mailed to: ing conversations that focus on States” and goes from 1-2:30 p.m. tion with students Amy White, Woodstock Elementary School health equity and the elimination on Webex. Register at https:// Yoshua Gonzaga and Anayeli 24 Frog Pond Rd., Woodstock, CT 06281 of health disparities.” tinyurl.com/MHConfEvents. Arroyo. The initiative is spon- The April 5 session is titled Description: Disparities in the sored by the Arthur L. Johnson Woodstock ● Public ● Schools “Debunking Myths: COVID-19 United States appear across many Unity Wing and the Office of Vaccine” and goes from 3-4:30 intersecting identities. National Equity & Diversity. p.m. on Zoom. Register at https:// Minority Health Month warrants Woodstock • Public • Schools Pre-K Lottery Selection Eastern student Morgan Harriott of Woodstock Elementary School is accepting applications for our PreK lottery selection for the 2021-2022 school year. Applications are open to students Danielson inducted into ODK leadership turning four by December 31, 2021. These are due to the main office by May 3, 2021. honor society For an application please visit: WILLIMANTIC — Eastern Health Sciences. than 235 colleges and universities https://www.woodstockschools.net/o/ Connecticut State University’s Founded at Washington and Lee with ODK chapters, with mem- elementary-school/page/pre-k--57 chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa University in Lexington, Va., in bers that include students, faculty (ODK), the national leadership 1913, ODK was the first honor soci- and staff. Eastern created its ODK Lottery selection to occur in June at a special honor society, inducted 34 stu- ety to recognize extracurricular chapter in 1994, and has since Board of Education Academic Subcommittee meeting. dents on March 7. Among the participation and leadership. The inducted more than 800 alumni, inductees was Morgan Harriott of goal of the society is to encourage students, faculty and honorary Danielson, campus citizenship as well as the members. a senior versatility of college life. Across Membership into ODK is usual- majoring in the United States, there are more ly awarded to students with junior or senior standing. Graduate students, Woodstock Public Schools faculty, adminis- • • tration and alumni may also be con- Developmental Preschool Screenings sidered. Inductees Woodstock Elementary School is seeking all are invited to join the society based Woodstock children born in 2017 to participate in a on their service in developmental preschool screening. campus life, leader- ship roles, strong Screenings are held on Wednesday mornings. character and exemplary schol- Please call the Woodstock Elementary School office to arship. This year, the mean grade schedule an appointment at 860-928-0471. point average for Preregistration is required. Eastern’s inductees was 3.83. V­ illager Newspapers Friday, April 9, 2021 • A3 Lawmakers seek adjustments to Farmers to Families Program

BY JASON BLEAU “While farmers in our state want- crisis. As of January 2021, the program established to help fight hunger during CONTRIBUTING WRITER ed to participate in the United States distributed 132.7 million boxes of food, the pandemic. The current round has REGION – Connecticut Senators Department of Agriculture (USDA) which were a critical lifeline for mil- provided 20.8 million boxes nationwide Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy Farmer to Family Food Box Program, lions of families across the country. and is currently slated to end on April along with U.S. Representative Joe they struggled to gain access and secure However, the program had stringent 30. The USDA has said they planned Courtney have joined Representatives contracts under the program’s require- requirements on box contents. Any new to purchase up to $1.5 billion in food Rosa DeLauro, John Larson, Jim Himes ments. A few Connecticut entities program should ensure food provided for delivery from January of this year and Jahana Hayes in authoring a letter received contracts in the first funding to those in need better aligns with con- through the end of April. to the U.S. Department of Agriculture solicitations of Farmer to Family Food sumer’s dietary and cultural prefer- (USDA) seeking ways to improve the Box, but the program changed in later ences. In addition, the requirement new food purchase and delivery pro- rounds and farmers in our state were that food be packaged in boxes was gram to better benefit small farmers. unable to participate,” the letter read. a challenge for food banks,” the let- In a March 31 letter submitted to The delegates made three recommen- ter continued. “The program could Bruce Summers, Administrator of dations to the USDA: first prioritizing be further improved by requiring Agricultural Marketing Service at the small and mid-sized farmers, second vendors to include bi-lingual infor- USDA which administers programs that having vendors commit to sourcing mation on how recipients can apply create domestic and international mar- local produce especially from minority for other federal and state assistance Accuracy Watch keting opportunities for U.S. producers, or women-owned business, and third to programs.” the lawmakers provided suggestions prioritize that vendors that had to lay The letter concluded asking that The Villager Newspapers is com- off workers and make a commitment contracts between the USDA and they felt would benefit both farmers and mitted to accuracy in all its news organizations helping to manage hun- to rehiring workers if awarded con- participating entities provide more tracts. The lawmakers also said the new time between when contracts are reports. Although numerous safe- ger and food insecurity especially in the guards are in place to ensure accu- wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The USDA program should adjust program announced and when delivery peri- requirement to facilitate participation ods begin allowing vendors time to rate reporting, mistakes can occur. letter addressed the Farmer to Family Confirmed fact errors will be cor- Food Program that has served numer- by food banks. properly source products. ous communities across Connecticut, “The Farmer to Family Food Box The USDA Farmer to Families Food rected at the top right hand corner including hundreds of families here in program must be commended for rap- Box program is currently in its fifth of page A3 in a timely manner. the Quiet Corner. idly responding to a food insecurity cycle since May of 2020 when it was If you find a mistake call (860) 928-1818 or e-mail charlie@villager- newspapers.com. Kate Pitts joins Weiss, Office Assistant Position

Hale & Zahansky Solair Recreation League in Woodstock CT has one or two hourly positions for an office assistant. This POMFRET CENTER — Weiss, Hale & Zahansky lives and I’m looking forward to being a part of position involves greeting guests, accepting payments, Strategic Wealth Advisors (WHZ) has welcomed that journey at WHZ,” Pitts shared. scheduling reservations, working with our office Kate Pitts to the team as director of client experi- For more information about Kate Pitts or Weiss, ence and relationships. Hale and Zahansky Strategic Wealth Advisors, manager to help with paperwork, mailings, etc. The Pitts, who holds a BS in Marketing from visit www.whzwealth.com. successful candidate should be able to work with limited Quinnipiac University School of supervision, have a working knowledge of personal Business, brings over a decade of expe- rience in the financial industry to INC. computers (Windows 10, familiar with MS Word), WHZ, having spent the last ten years THE SIDING STORE and good customer service skills. We will work with in various roles at State Street Global Siding • Roofing • Windows • Decks • Sunrooms the successful candidate on a fixed schedule which Advisors in Boston. She has served as an SPRING SPECIALS will include weekends. Up to 38 hours per week are Investment Strategist and most recently AFFORDABLE! as Vice President, Head of Participant NOW IN EFFECT available. Training will be provided for our scheduling Engagement in their Retirement busi- and reservations software. Weekend hours are required. ness. $$$$ In her new role at WHZ, Pitts will Financing available to qualified customers! oversee fulfillment of the firm’s mis- We take pride thesidingstoreinc.com Please send your resume and sion to deliver the best wealth manage- in our customer 860.423.7771 860.963.9035 wage (hourly rate) requirements to ment experience for every client, every service! 860.886.1718 860.564.7088 [email protected] time. This will include management of References Galore • Fully Licensed • Senior Discounts • Lead Safe WHZ’s client experience standards, as well as existing client relationships and onboarding of new clients. She will also oversee production of virtual and live financial education and other events, and serve as the firm’s point of contact for community engagement. “We’re thrilled to have Kate as part of our team. She grew up in northeast Connecticut and will be moving back here to help ensure that we deliver an exceptional experience for our clients and build meaningful relationships in the broader community,” said Managing Partner James Zahansky, AWMA®. “Our Plan Well, Invest Well, Live Well™ strategic process is built on our underlying mission to help people and businesses realize their goals and dreams through thoughtful, educated and strategic investments. Fulfilling that promise requires strong personal relationships and meaningful, ongoing communication with our clients. Kate’s expertise as well as her personable nature make her a perfect fit to help us carry out that mission,” Zahansky said. “It’s exciting to be part of a team that helps people achieve their financial goals through thoughtful planning and investing. I’m intrinsically motivated by helping people with their financial

Kate Pitts

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THOMPSON — One of the 75 for the PASS North Super top Modified and stock car rac- Late Models beginning at ers in the country is coming 1 p.m. They’re joined by the to Connecticut’s Thompson Sunoco Modifieds, NEMA Speedway Motorsports Park LITES Midgets, EXIT Realty this weekend. Berlin’s Ryan Pro Truck Challenge, Mini Preece has officially entered Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder the Outlaw Open Modified Street Stock Open. An optional Series Icebreaker 125 sched- Test N’ Tune practice day is uled for Sunday, April 11 as slated for Friday, April 9 for all part of the annual season-open- Icebreaker divisions. ing Icebreaker. Adult general admis- Preece, who is in his third sion is $30 for Saturday and full season of NASCAR Cup $35 for Sunday. Kids ages 12 Series competition, will drive and under are $10 each day. the familiar Eddie Partridge- Advance tickets are available owned #6CT Riverhead at https://happsnow.com/ Raceway Tour-type Modified. event/Thompson-Speedway- He joins a list of more than 30 Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. drivers aiming for the $10,000 Grandstand attendance is top prize in the Outlaw Open limited to 50% of capacity per Modified Series debut. Connecticut COVID-19 guide- The 30-year-old immediate- Photo Courtesy lines. Pit passes will be sold at ly becomes one of the favor- Ryan Preece celebrates winning a 2017 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour event at Thompson Speedway the track. ites in the Icebreaker 125. Motorsports Park. Speed51.TV is also offering Preece is a former Thompson a live pay-per-view broad- Speedway Sunoco Modified Modified event at Virginia’s pete. We aren’t going to just let gets to compete back home in cast for both days of the Champion, NASCAR Whelen Martinsville Speedway on them sit on jack stands.” front of the Connecticut race Icebreaker. PPV passes are Modified Tour Champion, and Thursday April 8 along with “I think we have a good fans where he grew up. Preece $29.99 for Saturday-only, $34.99 two-time NASCAR Xfinity the Cup Series event there on chance (to win),” Preece added. was raised a little more than an for Sunday-only, and $54.99 Series winner. Most recently, Saturday, April 10. Preece will “There are a bunch of differ- hour from the track and was a for both days. Sign up now he won the SMART Modified then travel to Connecticut on ent motor combinations and fixture at the track before suc- at https://www.speed51.tv/ Tour event at Virginia’s South Sunday for practice, qualify- drivers, but we have strong cessfully making the jump to products/ppv-2021-icebreaker- Boston Speedway on April 3 ing, and the 125-lap main event. race cars. We have the best you the NASCAR national touring weekend-pass-at-thompson. and currently sits 18th in Cup could ask for.” series. For more information about Series points. Preece will run “It’s because I like to try Preece joins a long list of “It’s really cool,” Preece the American-Canadian Tour, the same car at the Icebreaker and win, and I obviously have accomplished Modified racers said. “I think it’s awesome contact the ACT offices at (802) that he used to win the South Eddie and Connie Partridge as coming to Thompson Speedway what Thompson is doing, hav- 244-6963, [email protected], Boston event in dominating car owners that allow us to this weekend. Fellow NASCAR ing these open shows, and pay- or visit www.acttour.com. fashion. do it,” Preece said. “You have champions Doug Coby, Ron ing $10,000 to win is great. We You can also get updates on The Thompson Speedway these cars because you want to Silk, and Bobby Santos III have need more of these (events) in Facebook and Twitter at @ show is the finale of a busy go race them and hopefully win entered the Icebreaker 125, as Modified racing. Being home ACTTour. weekend for Preece. He’ll be the money. We want to go com- have many other Tour-type in Connecticut, I’ve been rac- For technical information running the NASCAR Whelen Modified champions and win- ing locally for a long time. concerning all PASS divisions, ners. The addition of Preece Going to Thompson, it’s nice to and for media or marketing and North Easton, Mass.’s Rob see people you’ve been around questions, please contact pass- Richardi, Jr. brings the official for years and it’s great being [email protected] or entry list to 31 drivers with with those who support you.” visit www.proallstarsseries. more expected on Sunday. Thompson Speedway opens com. Don’t forget to “Like” The event will be 125 green its 82nd season with the annual the Pro All Stars Series on flag laps, as opposed to 150 laps Icebreaker on Saturday, April Facebook or follow on Twitter with cautions counting as in 10 and Sunday, April 11. Ten @PASSSLM14 to keep up with past Icebreaker events. Preece local and regional series go breaking news as it happens. doesn’t feel the green-flag lap green at the two-day racing fes- For general Thompson strategy is going to be much tival. Sunday’s card features the Speedway inquiries and camp- different and says it will just $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 ing reservations, call (860) 923- come down to playing it out for the Outlaw Open Modified 2280, email oval@thompson- during the day. Series. There’s also a 40-lap speedway.com, or visit www. “I think you just have to be ACT-type Late Model shootout thompsonspeedway.com. You aware of how the race is play- plus the Limited Sportsman can follow Thompson Speedway ing out with the strategy and and SK Light Modifieds. Post on Facebook and Instagram at just be there at the end of it,” time is 1:15 p.m. @ThompsonSpeedway or on Preece said. Saturday’s six-division card Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy. Wherever he finishes, Preece is highlighted by the Thompson Thompson Maker Fair returns THOMPSON — Do you, or range from vinyl creations, clay custom built, mini retail shops does anybody you know, have jewelry, embroidered goods, and will be set up in Riverside an appreciation for artisanal candles, leather handcrafted Park for customers to explore. and handcrafted products? Do woodworks, and many more The 11th Village will be set up you want to support local small hand made goods. In addition to in two-to-four-week sessions in businesses? the many artists in attendance, May through October. If you are If the answer to any of these there will also be food trucks that interested in this small business questions is yes, then join will be sure to satisfy your hun- opportunity, contact Thompson the Town of Thompson and ger while you browse the many Recreation at www.thomp- Thompson Together in the sec- shops set up at the Riverside sonrec.org or call 860-923-9440. ond annual Maker Fair! Park. You are sure to find that The Fair will be taking place The Maker Fair is an event special Mother’s Day Gift, birth- on May 1 at Riverside Park in in which artists and craftsmen day gift, or even Christmas gift. Thompson from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., from many different back- The Maker Fair is an introduc- May 8th during the same hours if grounds will have the opportu- tion to the 11th Village, an event the event is rescheduled for any nity to showcase their talents to put on by Thompson’s Economic reason. COVID - 19 guidelines the community. Last year, we Development Commission in will be followed. You can check had 60 vendors and more than partnership with Thompson out the Town of Thompson or 1,500 shoppers. Recreation. Similarly to the Thompson Recreation website This year, the event has Maker Fair, the 11th Village or Facebook for more infor- grown to more than 80 ven- promotes small and local busi- mation regarding this exciting dors. Products on sale will nesses. The village will have event!

Low-cost rabies clinic planned in Danielson Insightful DANIELSON — Pet Pals Northeast, a local animal welfare organization, is holding a low cost rabies clinic at the Quinebaug V alley Veterinary Hospital, Route 12, Danielson/Plainfield town line, on April 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. Cost is $15 cash per animal. Pre- registration and appointment is required. No walk-ins, please. For information, registration and TO PLACE A BUSINESS AD: Villager Newspapers appointment contact Pet Pals at 860- Mikaela Victor published by Stonebridge Press 317-1720. Retail Advertising President and Publisher ext 860-928-1818 . 313 Frank G. Chilinski [email protected] 860-928-1818 ext. 103 SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES: [email protected] Kerri Peterson Business Manager 860-928-1818, ext. 303 Ryan Corneau JEWELERS [email protected] 860-928-1818 ext. 102 Fine Jewelry & Gifts [email protected] TO PRINT AN OBITUARY: The Jewelry store where you buy with confidence Operations Director E-MAIL Jim DiNicola [email protected] 508-764-6102 CALL: 860-928-4215 [email protected] OR send to Villager, P.O. Box 90, WE BUY GOLD Southbridge, MA 01550 Editor Brendan Berube TO SUBMIT A LETTER 860-928-1818 x 323 Specializing TO THE EDITOR: [email protected] E-MAIL: Production Manager in Custom Designs [email protected] Julie Clarke All types of Jewelry Repairs OR send to Villager, P.O. Box 90, 860-928-1818, ext. 305 Southbridge, MA 01550 [email protected] MASTER JEWELERS™ The Putnam Villager (025-154), The Thompson Villager (024-998) The Killingly b r i l l i a n c e y o u d e s e r v e ® Villager (025-004) and The Woodstock Villager (024-999) are published weekly by Villager Newspapers, P.O. Box 90, Southbridge, MA 01550. Periodical postage paid at 409 Main St. Southbridge, MA Woodstock, CT and additional mailing office(s). POSTMASTER: send address changes morinjewelers.com • 508-764-7250 to the Villager Newspapers, P.O. Box 90, Southbridge, MA 01550. Located at CVS Plaza V­ illager Newspapers Friday, April 9, 2021 • A5 Thompson Icebreaker 125 just the start of Big Outlaw Open Season

THOMPSON — Connecticut’s Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park is just over a week away from the annu- al Icebreaker. The 82nd season opener on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11 is headlined by the Icebreaker 125 for the new Outlaw Open Modified Series, pitting the region’s Tour-type Modified stars in a $10,000-to-win showdown. Noted open-wheel racers such as Doug Coby, Craig Lutz, Bobby Santos III, Jon McKennedy, and Matt Swanson are offi- cially committed to the Icebreaker 125. The Sunday shootout is just the begin- ning, though. Six Outlaw Open Series events are planned for the 2021 season with big purses and even bigger action. It culminates with the return of the Thompson 300. The $20,000-to-win event is part of the World Series of Speedway Racing on Oct. 8-10. It’s been 16 years since the late Ted Christopher won the last Thomson 300 in 2005. Not only is the Icebreaker 125 important in its own right, but it also starts preparations for an event that is hallowed in Modified lore. “The Icebreaker is always the big opener in New England to get back going and get started racing again, so I’m definitely looking forward to that,” Photo Courtesy - Matthew Wiernasz two-time Modified Racing Series cham- Two-time Modified Racing Series champion Chris Pasteryak (#75CT) is one of those drivers with his sights set on the season-ending pion Chris Pasteryak said. “As for the Thompson 300. season in general, the way I look at it is that the Thompson 300 is the big- gest Modified race of the year. So the off and pit a little bit later, you know is huge,” Zachem said. “Taking the Grandstand attendance is limited to more laps we get at Thompson over the you’re going to have that many laps to chance last year to run the track, with 50% of capacity per Connecticut COVID- course of the year leading up to the 300, actually try and race your way back everything going on with COVID...I 19 guidelines. Pit passes will be sold at hopefully the better we can run in it.” to the front and not just ride around started at the Little T Speedway in 2000 the track. In-between the Icebreaker 125 and behind the pace car to finish the day.” and everyone’s dream is to run the big Speed51.TV is also offering a live pay- the Thompson 300 are four $5,000-to-win A total of 29 drivers have pre-en- track one day and I made it there. It’s per-view broadcast for both days of the Wednesday night shows on June 16, July tered the event, including Keith Rocco, really cool to see the track still going.” Icebreaker. PPV passes are $29.99 for 7, Aug. 11, and Sept. 15. The Wednesday Mike Christopher Jr., Eric Goodale, Thompson Speedway opens its Saturday-only, $34.99 for Sunday-only, dates make it easy for teams to tack- Andrew Krause, Patrick Emerling, and 82nd season with the annual Icebreaker and $54.99 for both days. Sign up now le the Thompson high banks without Jeff Gallup. The current entry list alone on Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, at https://www.speed51.tv/products/ weekly or touring series conflicts. accounts for dozens of championships April 11. Ten local and regional ppv-2021-icebreaker-weekend-pass-at- In the meantime, all eyes are on the and hundreds of race wins. Several series go green at the two-day racing thompson. Icebreaker showdown. The event is 125 other teams have indicated they’ll be festival. Sunday’s card features the For more information about the green-flag laps with teams allowed to there, setting up a stacked field with $10,000-to-win Icebreaker 125 for the American-Canadian Tour, contact the use eight tires. Racers have to be fast many potential winners. Outlaw Open Modified Series. There’s ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, media@ and use the right strategy to stand in The Outlaw Open Modified Series is also a 40-lap ACT-type Late Model acttour.com, or visit www.acttour.com. Victory Lane. the brainchild of PASS’s Tom Mayberry shootout plus the Limited Sportsman You can also get updates on Facebook “I love it,” Oakdale’s Zachem said and ACT’s Cris Michaud, who are and SK Light Modifieds. Post time is and Twitter at @ACTTour. of the 125-lap distance. “It’s a pit-stop co-promoting the Thompson Speedway 1:15 p.m. For technical information concern- race, so more or less, you are racing to oval track events this season. The duo Saturday’s six-division card is high- ing all PASS divisions, and for media halfway to figure out your pit stop situ- put on two events at Thompson in 2020 lighted by the Thompson 75 for the PASS or marketing questions, please con- ation. I’m looking forward to it. We’ve and have banded together to carry on North Super Late Models beginning at tact [email protected] or always run well over at Thompson.” the track’s storied tradition. 1:00pm. They’re joined by the Sunoco visit www.proallstarsseries.com. Don’t It’s definitely going to make a dif- Thompson Speedway opened Modifieds, NEMA LITES Midgets, forget to “Like” the Pro All Stars Series ference,” Moosup’s Pasteryak added. in 1940 and was long known as the EXIT Realty Pro Truck Challenge, Mini on Facebook or follow on Twitter @ “When you’re counting caution laps “Indianapolis of the East”, attracting Stocks, and an 8-Cylinder Street Stock PASSSLM14 to keep up with breaking and you get to 50 or 60 laps to go, you every notable name in motorsports. Open. An optional Test N’ Tune prac- news as it happens. normally only count on getting about Even today, the track is revered among tice day is slated for Friday, April 9 for For general Thompson Speedway 35 of them under green. Whereas now the racing community. Drivers such as all Icebreaker divisions. inquiries and camping reservations, when you get to 50 or 60 to go, there’s Ryan Preece, Harrison Burton, Bobby Adult general admission is $30 for call (860) 923-2280, email oval@thomp- still potentially a pretty long race left. Santos III, and Derek Griffith have used Saturday and $35 for Sunday. Kids ages sonspeedway.com, or visit www.thomp- And then you know that, if you have Thompson victories as a springboard to 12 and under are $10 each day. Advance sonspeedway.com. You can follow some tires left in the pit stall, or you national opportunities. tickets are available at https:// Thompson Speedway on Facebook and want to try a strategy where you hold “What Cris Michaud and Tom happsnow.com/event/Thompson- Instagram at @ThompsonSpeedway or Mayberry have done for Thompson Speedway-Motorsports-Park-YHPQ. on Twitter at @ThompsonSpdwy.

CENTAURS Woodstock Academy opened In a season that was played in BOYS’ PREP SCHOOL won its final four games of continued from page A1­­­ the season with a 5-3 loss to fits and starts, Millar couldn’t BASKETBALL the season — in a seven-day Connecticut Northern Lights have possible talked more posi- span — to finish 8-4. The The Woodstock Academy Gold “All of our competition, pret- Girls’ Hockey Program before tively about her team’s resolve. Centaurs defeated Army Prep, team finished its season 5-5, ty much, went right out the evening its record at 1-1 with “The girls inspired and 72-69, on Friday March 19, and going 2-3 over the final week of door before our season even a 6-2 win over the Shoreline encouraged me. They were 62-50 on Thursday, March 18. the season. started,” Millar said. “We Sharks, a club team from the so grateful to be on the ice. Woodstock Academy defeat- The Centaurs opened their reached out to teams in the Northford neighborhood of Especially the seniors; their ed Bridgeport Prep, 96-74, on final stretch of games with CCC [Central Connecticut North Branford. The Centaurs attitude was great despite hav- Sunday, March 14, and 76-71 on a 79-59 home win over St. Conference] but they didn’t were supposed to play the ing such a crappy way to end Saturday, March 13. George’s School of Middletown, want to play us either. So, we Shoreline Sharks a second their careers,” said Millar, In the March 19 win at Army R.I., on Saturday, March 13, started reaching out to club time, but the game was can- referring to upperclassmen Prep, five Centaurs scored in and a 71-45 home victory over teams, but a lot of them were celled because the Sharks Eliza Dutson, Kileigh Gagnon, double figures, led by Ethan the Darrow School of New in the same boat with regard to didn’t have enough skaters Ciara MacKinnon, Maria Edwards, who poured in 17 Lebanon, N.Y., the following travel restrictions.” available on the day of the Santucci, and twin sisters points. Mark Heber added 14, game. Maddie and Lizzie Silbermann. day. Woodstock Academy then while D’Amonte Johnson and “They were all really, really suffered a 72-61 home loss to Levi King scored 11 each and great. They supported each Upper Room Christian School Kyle Alcy chipped in with 10. other like crazy out there. of Dix Hills, N.Y., on Friday, In the March 18 home victo- VIETNAM VETERAN “We had a lot of middle March 19. The season ended ry, Johnson led the way with school girls come out for the with back-to-back road losses 22 points and Heber added 14, HONORS FALLEN team. We had a really big ros- to the Upper Room Christian and Edwards 10. Johnson and ter this year because we didn’t School on Saturday, March Heber combined to connect on COMRADES make any cuts,” Millar con- 20 and Sunday, March 21 by seven attempts from beyond tinued. “All of the older girls scores of 72-61 and 55-54. the 3-point arc. welcomed the younger girls in In the March 19 loss Jayden In the March 14 win over vis- with open arms. It was a really Beloti led WA with 18 points iting Bridgeport Prep, Heber great culture. That was some- while Pipe Ajayi had a dou- led the way, finishing with 24 thing I was most proud of them ble-double, scoring 13 points points including four 3-point- for.” and grabbing 10 rebounds. In ers, while Jason Ofcarcik Junior Bella Chaves finished the Centaurs’ March 14 win added 13, Edwards 12 Alcy the season with two goals and over the Darrow School Tairi 11, and King 10. In the March four assists, while Dutson, Ketner led the way with 15 13 victory, Alcy paced the seventh-grader Julianna points, Beloti added 14 and Centaurs’ attack with 23 points Buoniconti, and junior Sydney Ajayi 10. In the March 13 win and King added 15. Haskins all finished with two over St. George’s, goals apiece. Seventh-graders Beloti finished with 19 Alex Lee and Maci Corradi points, Ajayi 16, and each scored a goal. Isha Mohammade 13. The Woodstock Academy Blue team

Homeowner looking for GARDENING HELP Photo Courtesy United States Army Vietnam veteran Victor J. Kratz (right) was Woodstock Area honored to lay the memorial wreath at the Coventry “Vietnam War Veterans Day 2021” ceremony held on Monday, March (close to Southbridge) 29. Kratz, who serves as Sgt.-at-Arms for the Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post #13 of Putnam and American Legion District #4, spent 15 months in Vietnam during the war. He’s Please call pictured with United States Marine Corps veteran Manuel “Manny” Rodrigues, Commander of American Legion Post #52 Coventry, which sponsored the program. 860-974-0028 Good Local Newspaper” “Every Town Deserves a www.ConnecticutQuietCorner.com A6 • Friday, April 9, 2021 Villager Newspapers Day Kimball Healthcare names Timothy Van Nort Employee of the Month

PUTNAM — Timothy Van Nort, chickens, and mini pot belly pig. administration coordinator to the Day Kimball Healthcare’s employ- chief executive officer, has been named ee of the month program is spon- employee of the month for March. sored by Foxwoods Resort Casino in Van Nort began working at Day Mashantucket, Connecticut. “The Kimball in 2013 as a UR/PCT and sec- Mashantucket (Western) Pequot Tribal retary in the behavioral health depart- Nation and Foxwoods Resort Casino ment before transitioning to adminis- has been focused on taking care of the trative assistant for the director of criti- people that serve within our commu- cal services until 2018. In 2019, Van Nort nity, and we appreciate everything returned to Day Kimball to fulfill his Day Kimball Healthcare does,” said current role. As administration coor- Foxwood’s Director of Sponsorships dinator, he is responsible for providing and Partnerships Roy Colebut-Ingram. assistance to the CEO and executive “Supporting meaningful employee rec- team, in addition to coordinating daily ognition programs like that at DKH is operations of the hospital. just one way that we feel we can express According to Van Nort’s supervisor, our appreciation.” R. Kyle Kramer, chief executive officer, About Day Kimball Healthcare Day Kimball Healthcare, “Tim is the Day Kimball Healthcare is a nonprof- quintessential example of what servant it community healthcare system com- leadership looks like. His unselfish gen- prised of Day Kimball Hospital, Day erosity, kind spirit, and helpful attitude Kimball Medical Group, Day Kimball are but a few of the attributes that make Healthcare At Home, and health- Tim such a valuable team member here care centers in Danielson, Dayville, at Day Kimball. His quiet nature and Photo Courtesy Plainfield, and Putnam. Its service area quick wit can brighten any day, and we Day Kimball Healthcare’s Employee of the Month for March 2021, Timothy Van Nort, adminis- includes Northeast Connecticut as well are extremely fortunate to have him as tration coordinator to the chief executive officer at Day Kimball Healthcare. as nearby Massachusetts and Rhode a colleague and friend.” Island communities. Day Kimball In response to being named employ- being a resource to assist anyone who Science in Psychology from Worcester Healthcare’s comprehensive network ee of the month, Van Nort said, “I am needs help. Day Kimball has a great State College. He grew up in Webster, offers more than 1,000 staff including so grateful. There are so many eligible culture and I’m proud to be part of this Mass., and currently resides in North nearly 300 associated, highly skilled employees that contribute to the suc- team.” Grosvenordale, Connecticut with his physicians, surgeons and specialists. cess of DKH.” When asked what he likes Van Nort earned a Bachelor of partner Gerry, their dog, three cats, ten Its Web site is www.daykimball.org. most about his job, he shared, “I enjoy

overwhelmed at the fantastic well to the members of the DASH CAM amount of offers that were Woodstock Safety patrol who Eastern student works with continued from page A1­­­ coming in. I realized we need- are doing their part to help ed help coordinating the fund keep Woodstock safe,” said tors. raising. Dattco cannot accept Jeff Gordon. Windham preschoolers Holland suggested to McCoy money and in fact, although “A driver cannot react that dash cams might be more they are readily installing the quickly enough to always get effective and require less man- through Jumpstart program cameras on their buses, Ms. a license plate number. Our power than having volunteers Dupuis made it clear the cam- first priority is the safety of spend hours following buses. WILLIMANTIC — A group given professional train- eras belong to the Woodstock the students themselves. By Ms. Holland also offered to of Eastern Connecticut State ing in early education; vol- Schools, not Dattco,” McCoy the time we are certain that donate the first three cameras. University students is vol- unteers do not need prior said. the students are secure and After getting the go ahead unteering with the national experience. Volunteers ded- Thanks to some quick work accounted for, the offending from Woodstock School early education organiza- icate 10-12 hours a week and by WSP Secretary Jen Beams, motorist is long gone. This is a Superintendent Viktor tion known as Jumpstart. receive a Segal AmeriCorps an online funding system was serious problem in Woodstock, Toth and Dattco’s corporate Among the student volun- Education Award after their shared with town residents on especially on my route which office the first two cameras teers is Sarah Langlois of service is complete. Facebook and donations quick- covers Connecticut-Route 197 were installed on two of the Quinebaug, a graduate who The CCE provides resourc- ly began to come in. Some res- and 169. High speed traffic is Woodstock school buses on majors in Early Childhood es to build a culture of civic idents have even purchased very dicey to deal with when Wednesday, March 24. Education. Langlois serves responsibility and engaged cameras and are bringing making stops on these roads. McCoy posted the news as a student leader. learning at Eastern. The them to the Dattco office. Some people think they can on the Woodstock Proud 2.0 The Center for Community Center creates sustainable According to Ms. Beams, as just run the bus stop as they Facebook page and within min- Engagement (CCE) at and effective relationships of Friday evening it appeared would a red light. What they utes town residents were offer- Eastern has partnered with with community partners there might be enough cam- fail to think about is that a ing to donate more cameras. Jumpstart to recruit, train that benefit the local com- eras already purchased, com- child could be killed by their McCoy contacted the new pres- and provide students a first- munity, provide students bined with cash donations actions. In fact, a child was ident of the Woodstock Safety hand experience in work- with valuable life and coming in, to outfit the town’s killed in town many years ago Patrol, Dr. Jeffrey Gordon, ing with preschool chil- employability skills and 17 school buses. She will know during a bus stop. We all want as well as WSP Secretary Jen dren while supporting the support faculty in develop- in a few days once the tally is to prevent that. I think if peo- Beams to see if the WSP could Windham Heights Preschool ing high-impact curricular completed. ple know the school district help coordinate the receiving and Windham-Willimantic practices. Opportunities are “This is another wonderful and Dattco with community of donations as the WSP is Program. available in tutoring and example of how people in our support, are taking a pro-ac- now a 501(c)3 charitable not for Eastern’s Jumpstart mentoring in area schools, community quickly help out tive, zero tolerance approach profit and could give residents program consists of 29 vol- juvenile and adult rehabili- a good cause. Thank you to to this problem, they might be a receipt for tax deduction pur- unteers for the spring 2021 tation, programs focused on everyone who has donated less inclined to do something poses. semester with seven of them cultural awareness, hunger to get the dash cams for the foolish, illegal and potentially “Jerilyn Dupuis and I were serving as student leaders. and homelessness, animal school buses. Thank you as deadly,” McCoy stated. Students of all majors are rehabilitation and health and eligible to volunteer and are wellness.

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860-928-1818 24 Putnam Pike, Suite 3 • Dayville, CT• (860) 412-9016 V­ illager Newspapers Friday, April 9, 2021 • A7 Pomfret hosting Annual Town-Wide Tag Sale May 1 thousands of visitors to the Quiet Townhouse, 11 Town House Drive, from Association gives back to the commu- Corner for great deals, supporting local 7 a.m. - noon. It will feature current nity with this event. For 2021, profits organizations, and safe, socially dis- fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, from map sales and registrations will be tanced outdoor fun. and biographies. Prices range from 50 donated to the Pomfret Public Library’s Starting at 7 a.m., purchase a map cents to $1 plus a $5 Bag Sale from 11 capital campaign for an expansion proj- to guide you to dozens of participat- a.m. - noon. The Windham Tolland 4-H ect. ing residences, businesses and orga- Camp will host a sale on April 30 (9 a.m. Connecticut residents and visitors nizations throughout town. A Town -1 p.m.) and May 1 (8 a.m. – 1 p.m.) at should continue taking precautions Wide Tag Sale Map makes bargain the Horse Camp (326 Taft Pond Road). to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In hunting a breeze. Print maps will be Preview their on-line auction items accordance with Governor Lamont’s sold for $2 each at Pomfret Community while you are at the in-person sale. The Executive Orders, the Pomfret School (20 Pomfret St., corner of Routes on-line auction runs from April 30 - Proprietors request that all Tag Sale 169 & 101). Local businesses will May 8 at https://www.biddingowl.com/ visitors and hosts practice social dis- offer 15th Anniversary Specials in cou- WindhamCounty4HFoundation. tancing, wear a face mask while on peo- pons that will be handed out with the The Pomfret Lions Club and Pomfret ple’s private property and to please use map. Participating businesses include Horse & Trail Association will also hand-sanitizer before exiting your car. The Vanilla Bean Café, Pizza 101, host group sales in town. Connecticut While you’re in Pomfret, please Baker’s Dozen, Garden Gate Florist, Audubon Society Center at Pomfret will enjoy the sights, shops and restau- POMFRET — Pomfret celebrates a Pomfret Spirit Shoppe, and Watercure be raising funds for sanctuary and trail rants of our lovely, historic town. Go milestone with its 15th Annual Town Farm Distillery. maintenance. They will have a wide to VisitPomfret.com or www.facebook. Wide Tag Sale on Saturday, May 1. Popular annual group sales and fund- variety of items for sale on 218 Day Rd. com/PomfretProprietorsAssoc/ The all-volunteer Pomfret Proprietors raisers include The Friends of Pomfret Consult your map for many more tag for more information. Questions? Association created the region’s first Public Library’s Used Book Sale, sale locations all over town. Contact Martha Emilio (860) 974-1583 and best town wide sale, which draws which will be held at the Old Pomfret Every year, the Pomfret Proprietors / [email protected]. LEGALS TOWN OF KILLINGLY find out the hours of the Tax Office. If Alysia Casiano, Clerk presented to the fiduciary at the ad- TAX COLLECTORS you wish to pay by mail, enclose cou- The fiduciary is: dress below. Failure to promptly pres- LEGAL NOTICE pon of bill and address to: Revenue Gregory A. Vasileff, ent any such claim may result in the Payments will be received in the Reve- Collector, PO Box 253, Brooklyn, CT c/o WILLIAM H ST ONGE, ST ONGE loss of rights to recover on such claim. nue Office, 172 Main Street Killingly CT 06234. If a receipt is desired, please & BROUILLARD, 50 ROUTE 171, 06239, as follows: Monday, Wednes- enclose a self-addressed stamped en- WOODSTOCK, CT 06281, Brenda Duquette, Clerk day, Thursday 9-4PM Tuesday 9-5PM velope. You can also drop off a pay- (860)928-0481 The fiduciary is: Friday 9-11AM. ment in the drop box located on the April 9, 2021 Joanne E Jacobson, The fourth quarter installment of tax- building at 4 Wolf Den Rd, Brooklyn. 4 Birchwood Drive, Webster, MA es becomes due on April 1, 2021, and You can also pay via credit/debit card NOTICE TO CREDITORS 01570 becomes delinquent on May 4, 2021 online or by phone. There is a pro- ESTATE Alaine P Anderson (21-00084) Attorney: WILLIAM J MONTY LAW and subject to interest at the rate of cessing fee of 2.50%. For more infor- The Hon. Leah P. Schad, Judge of the OFFICE W MONTY 930 ROUTE 169 18% per annum, 1 ½% per month or mation, go to our town website www. Court of Probate, District of Northeast PO BOX266 any fraction of a month, from the due brooklynct.org. Probate Court, by decree dated March April 9, 2021 date. A minimum of $2.00 interest will Jocelyne Ruffo, CCMC, 30, 2021, ordered that all claims must be charged for each delinquent tax bill Revenue Collector be presented to the fiduciary at the ad- NOTICE TO CREDITORS and installment. March 26, 2021 dress below. Failure to promptly pres- ESTATE Beverly J Hamel (20-00018) Please visit our website for full details April 9, 2021 ent any such claim may result in the The Hon. Leah P. Schad, Judge of the and online payments www.killingly.org April 30, 2021 loss of rights to recover on such claim. Court of Probate, District of Northeast Dated at Killingly this 26TH day of Probate Court, by decree dated, or- March , 2021 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Brenda Duquette, Clerk dered that all claims must be presented Patricia Monahan CCMC ESTATE Mary P. Larson Seney, AKA The fiduciary is: to the fiduciary at the address below. Revenue Collector for the Mary Liu-son Seney (21-00089) Kenneth Anderson, Failure to promptly present any such Town of Killingly The Hon. Leah P. Schad, Judge of the 55 Letters Street, Putnam, CT 06260 claim may result in the loss of rights to March 26, 2021 Court of Probate, District of Northeast April 9, 2021 recover on such claim. April 9, 2021 Probate Court, by decree dated April Brenda Duquette, Clerk April 23, 2021 1, 2021, ordered that all claims must NOTICE TO CREDITORS The fiduciary is: be presented to the fiduciary at the ad- ESTATE Yvonne M Cote (21-00107) Donna L Konicki., 2 Westgate Road, TOWN OF BROOKLYN dress below. Failure to promptly pres- The Hon. Leah P. Schad, Judge of the Cumberland, Rl 02864 LEGAL NOTICE ent any such claim may result in the Court of Probate, District of Northeast Attorney: GAIL JESSEL The THIRD installment of real estate loss of rights to recover on such claim. Probate Court, by decree dated March ROOKE-NORMAN ROOKE-NORMAN and personal property tax of 28.92 28, 2021, ordered that all claims must & ASSOC, 31 ACADEMY STREET mills on the dollar levied on the as- Alysia Casiano, Clerk be presented to the fiduciary at the ad- PO BOX 347, DANIELSON, CT 06239 sessment of Oct 1, 2019 becomes The fiduciary is: dress below. Failure to promptly pres- April 9, 2021 due April 1, 2021. The SECOND in- Edmond L. Seney, ent any such claim may result in the stallment of sewer also becomes due c/o THOMAS A BORNER, loss of rights to recover on such claim. NOTICE TO CREDITORS on April 1, 2021. Supplemental Motor BORNER SMITH ALEMAN HERZOG ESTATE Emily U, Masiello (21-00072) Vehicle bills are due on April 1, 2021. & CERRONE, LLC, 155 PROVI- Brenda Duquette, Clerk The Hon. Leah P. Schad, Judge of the Bills will become delinquent on April 2, DENCE STREET, PO BOX 166, PUT- The fiduciary is: Court of Probate, District of Northeast 2021 and subject to interest from the NAM, CT 06260, (860)928-2429 Paul J Cote, 236 Quinebaug Ave, Probate Court, by decree dated March due date of January 1, 2021 at 1.5% April 9, 2021 North Grosvenordale, CT 06255 23, 2021, ordered that all claims must per month as prescribed in the Gen- Attorney: CHRISTIAN GEORGE be presented to the fiduciary at the ad- eral Statutes of the State of CT. Mini- NOTICE TO CREDITORS SARANTOPOULOS SARANTOPOU- dress below. Failure to promptly pres- mum interest penalty is $2.00. ESTATE Mary Jean Vasileff, AKA Jean LOS & SARANTOPOULOS, LLC ent any such claim may result in the The FOURTH installment of real estate A. Vasileff (21- 00117) 143 SCHOOL STREET, DANIELSON, loss of rights to recover on such claim. and personal property tax of 28.92 The Hon. Leah P. Schad, Judge of the CT 06239 mills on the dollar levied on the as- Court of Probate, District of Northeast April 9, 2021 Alysia Casiano, Clerk sessment of Oct 1, 2019 becomes due Probate Court, by decree dated April The fiduciary is: April 1, 2021. Bills will become delin- 1, 2021, ordered that all claims must NOTICE TO CREDITORS Carolyn A. Hart, quent on May 3, 2021 and subject to be presented to the fiduciary at the ad- ESTATE Arlene Lillian Froehlich, AKA c/o ALYSON R ALEMAN, interest from the due date at 1.5% per dress below. Failure to promptly pres- Arlene Froehlich (21- 00062) The Hon. BORNER SMITH ALEMAN HERZOG month as prescribed in the General ent any such claim may result in the Leah P. Schad, Judge of the Court of & CERRONE,LLC, 155 PROVIDENCE Statutes of the State of CT. Minimum loss of rights to recover on such claim. Probate, District of Northeast Probate STREET, PO BOX 166, PUTNAM, CT interest penalty is $2.00. Court, by decree dated March 26, 06260, (860)928-2429. Please call 860-779-3411, opt. 5 to 2021, ordered that all claims must be April 9, 2021

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Telephone: (860) 928-1818 hope in Fax: (860) 928-5946 www.villagernewspapers.com OPINIONOpinion and commentary from the Quiet Corner haikus Frank G. Chilinski President/Publisher How do we cope? The past LETTERS TO THE EDITOR year has brought unimag- Brendan Berube inable challenges to so many Editor of us. Everyone has been touched in some way by fear, uncertainty and lone- Stimulus bill should have been passed before Biden took liness. I won’t equate what I have experienced with that office of people on the front lines The power of health care or people who To the Editor: will be those people who will only remember I certainly wasn›t surprised to see Billy G. - and give all the credit to - President Biden suffered from disease and Taylor, “after a brief respite,” again return for passing the bill, but then again there loss, but I can share what to the keyboard. And seeing that you men- are those that will remember Pelosi and her several friends and I decided of positivity tioned it, I actually read your reply on April spineless minions for holding it up. The to do to express ourselves. Fool’s Day (when it was published online), people who really needed that money were As part of my tribute to area which was a most coincidental and suitable left to suffer and wait while Pelosi - with the poets and poetry during the Every day, we wake up with the best day for it, so I’d say your attempt at flippancy aid of her boot-licking Connecticut puppets - month of April, I will share intentions — or we like to think that kind of backfired. delayed the passing of the bill, and hopefully, haikus written during the most of us do. Each I will remind you, though, that my let- this will be considered come re-election time. past year by five women. new day brings with it specific chal- ter was pointed at Democrats still blam- Ezekiel Emanuel wrote a controversial Haikus are short. They lenges. Many times, those challenges ing Donald Trump. There is no doubt that piece about the quality of life after age 75. His are generally three lines. come by way of a misunderstanding the continual blame game also involves argument was that older Americans live too The first is five syllables. or a shifted perspective. We have come Republicans blaming Democrats, and I’ll add long in a diminished state, and he questioned The second is seven and the to realize, long ago, that often there is that “two wrongs don’t make a right.” the cost of their consumption and the worth third is five. Often they are more to a story than we can see at its Yes, President Biden signed the stimu- of their contribution You can form your own about nature and have a bit surface. Just being aware of that one lus bill, but I feel that›s no accomplishment opinion about that, but if he was considering of a surprise at the end. The simple fact, can change the way a situ- because it should have been done while the likes of Pelosi, McConnell, Nadler and form originated in Japan ation is viewed. Often times it’s easier Donald Trump was still in office. Fact is Waters (to name just a few), when he said and, the internet says, the said than done, however the more we that Pelosi and her mindless ilk prevented this, I’d say that he hit the nail on the head. most famous choose to remain optimistic the better. that from happening because (in her own I’ll also say that what Mr. Emanuel wrote was written What might seem catastrophic in the words) she didn›t want to «put a check next would make a solid argument for term limits. by the poet moment is usually nothing more than to Trump›s name,» and I invite anybody to Ed DeLuca Basho (1644- 1694). Here a small frustration that has an easy fix prove me wrong about that. North Grosvenordale and will pass. A wise man once said, Anyhow, with the money now in hand, there it is: ‘Don’t sweat the small stuff, and it’s all “Old pond small stuff.’ A frog This isn’t to negate the fact that larger jumps in issues do surface and take some time to Cutting of roadside trees in Brooklyn was mishandled The sound sort out, however we need to remind of water.” ourselves that we are all surrounded by To the Editor: road except a state highway, or a public park. NANCY WEISS No matter well intended, intelligent people. People Brooklyn, as well as other Northeast The law also states that unless the condition how I count who are willing to be helpful, generous, Connecticut towns, has many attractive of a tree constitutes an immediate public this on my rational and kind through productive country roads. One of these in Brooklyn, hazard it must be posted with a notice of pro- fingers, it doesn’t follow the conversations will always find the pot Bush Hill Road, connects Route 169 with Wolf posed removal for a ten-day period. A person pattern. of gold in any situation. Den Road at the intersection of Hillandale may then appeal removal in writing to the So much for the orthodoxy Remembering to check a kneejerk Farm and the Golden Lamb Restaurant. This tree warden. of haiku. I’ll bet it works in reaction before gathering all of the facts one-mile road is a designated national his- As a former 12-year first selectman, I called Japanese. The form became is crucial to your ability to remain opti- toric district, as well as a town designated the First Selectman to ask why the trees the driving force for much mistic. Again, this is not always easy, scenic road. were cut in violation of the state law and sce- creativity through the cen- but once mastered can change every- Recently, the town decided to cut 23 road- nic road ordinance. The response was some turies. thing. side trees on the mile long road. Of the 23 angry comments on his part and hanging up About a year ago, Philippa Believe it or not, optimism is a choice trees, only five showed any signs of rot, of the phone. Part of my telephone call was to Paquette suggested that we and offers surprising benefits. Choosing and none were dead or in danger of falling. suggest the town purchase some replacement write a haiku a day and email to look on the bright side of life can Some of the trees cut were planted by the trees, and I would find volunteers to plant it to each other. We are all lower your risk of heart disease and Booth Family, most recently by Jim Booth of them. The offer still stands. writers of one type or anoth- stroke while also extending your life. Hillandale Farm, whose mother was instru- All owners of property fronting on town er and through the years One study revealed that individuals mental in the naming of the area to the roads in Connecticut should be protective of have sporadically shared who spent five minutes a day think- National Register of Historic Places in 1987. roadside trees and the laws covering them. If our work. Twice we’ve gone ing positive thoughts about their future The cutting of these trees was in direct you see a roadside tree being cut or severe- on weekend retreats to Cape increased their ability to be optimistic violation of Connecticut law. The First ly trimmed, call the Tree Warden or First Cod to write, take a dip in in just two weeks. Before turning in Selectman of Brooklyn ordered this work. Selectman and demand the state law be fol- the icy water and laugh. at night, list five things that you are Connecticut General Statues section 23-59 lowed. We knew there would be no grateful for and five things that you are clearly states – the town Tree Warden has Sincerely, trips to the beach, no face-to- looking forward to. Every time you stop the care and control of all trees and shrubs in Donald Francis face meetings. Laughter was at a traffic light, tell yourself something whole or part within the limits of and public Brooklyn fading too. And so we began. that you like about yourself. Keeping In the spring of 2020, pessimists in your life at a distance is Christine Carter, wrote: always a good idea. ‘Working at my screens When a negative thought does creep Black dog basks then through your mind, that’s ok. Recognize Credit card dos and don’ts looks at me. it, and decide how realistic it actually is. Can I walk with you?” To offset those thoughts, try spreading Establishing and maintaining good credit that you actually approved the charges that “Winter’s branches float positivity yourself. While at work, offer is one of the most important aspects of per- appear. Mistakes and fraud can happen, and Should I clean this clogged a co-worker an ‘atta boy’ or ‘atta girl’ sonal finance. Not only will a good credit you don’t want to pay more than you agreed up pond? for a job well done. If your child has score allow you to borrow for the to. Peepers chirp and croon.” been hard at work on a school project, larger ticket items when you need Pay attention to changes in your Later she wrote: tell them how proud you are. Send a to – say, to purchase a home or a car credit agreement. Occasionally, the “Sporting dappled leaves letter to someone who has had a positive – but it is increasingly used as a mea- credit card company will send you Shy trout lily peeks up impact on your life. When you bestow sure of your overall trustworthiness updates on the contract you have from positivity on others, it has a lasting and reliability. Even some employ- with it. If you don’t pay attention, Under her gold crown.” effect on your own life. ers are running credit checks on you could miss something import- Dogs and cats turned up One way to practice being more opti- prospective employees. That’s why ant. in a number of haikus, but mistic is to flip every negative thought it’s so important to build and main- Credit Card Don’ts I became obsessed with a with a positive one despite how creative tain good credit, and using credit Financial Don’t spend money you don’t have. local fox, smells and birds. you need to get. For example, if you’re cards wisely is an essential piece of Focus Buying things without sufficient “A hungry red fox, thinking ‘I’m going to be late for dinner that puzzle. funds in your bank account can lead On the margin of the field and I don’t feel like cooking’ you can flip Whether you’re just beginning to LEISL L. you down a dangerous path. Before Leaps for breakfast – that by reminding yourself about the teach your teen the fundamentals CORDING you know it, you could be in a lot of mouse!” wonders of the microwave and take out. of credit or you could use a few debt with no way to pay it off. Or smells of spring: If a rainy day has you feeling groggy, pointers yourself, the following cred- Don’t get too close to your max- “Soft, sweet spring blos- remind yourself that those are the best it card dos and don’ts are an excellent guide imum credit limit. Creditors want to see soms days to read all day, catch up on Netflix for how to use credit wisely so that you can that you know how to use your card wisely. Scents wafting on morn- and not feel guilty about missing all of build and maintain the healthy credit score Keeping your balance low and making pay- ing air, that sunshine. you need to live well. ments in full are good ways to do that. Just But no! Manure truck!” A quote from Rodolfo Costa, “Learn First, the basics: how credit cards work. because the option to spend more is there “Failed to fill feeders. to adapt. Things change, circumstances A credit card is a card issued by a financial doesn’t mean you should take advantage of it. Morning brought some change. Adjust yourself and your efforts company that gives the holder an option Don’t sign up for store credit cards just to dirty looks. to what it is presented to you so you can to borrow funds, usually at the point of receive a discount. Opening a credit line at a Forgiveness from seeds.” respond accordingly. Never see change purchase. Credit cards charge interest and store to obtain a discount on a purchase then Mary Ellen Ellsworth is as a threat, because it can be an oppor- are used primarily for short-term financing. and there may not be a good idea. Remember one of the most productive tunity to learn, to grow, evolve and Interest typically begins to be charged one that credit cards affect your credit score and writers as well as an accom- become a better person.” month after a purchase is made, and borrow- that opening too many can actually hurt it. plished photographer. She ing limits are preset according to an individ- Plus, store credit cards tend to have much often pairs a haiku with pho- ual’s credit rating. higher interest rates than those offered by tos. A year ago she wrote To seek out new customers, credit card financial institutions. about her Star Magnolia: companies often send young adults and other Don’t apply for additional credit cards if “Fragile blossoms first, Letters prospects credit card applications in the you have balances on others. Pay your bal- White, scalloped, mail. Typically, these mailings are unsolic- ances on existing cards before opening new cream-colored eye. ited—you may have received a few yourself. accounts. Getting in this habit will make you Frost took out delight.” Policy But, before you sign on the dotted line and less likely to open too many accounts. At Easter this year, she return that application, you should know a Don’t give your credit card to someone wrote: bit more about the dos and don’ts of credit else. Whether you authorize it or not, giving “Through the mist and fog Letters to the editor may be e-mailed cards. your credit card to someone else to use is The fields have greened to [email protected] Credit Card Dos: against the law. now. Have I? Please include your place of resi- Shop around. The credit card industry is Although credit cards are important in New growth? New prom- dence and phone number for verifica- very competitive, so compare interest rates, helping establish a credit history, they are ise?” tion, not publication. Letters must be credit limits, grace periods, annual fees, often misused. A credit card can be a pow- “Wind growls like a train! received by noon on Tuesdays. terms, and conditions. NerdWallet is a good erful tool in the hands of a responsible indi- Morning daffodils curl place to start to compare different cards. vidual, but it can be destructive if used by tight. Read the fine print. The application is a someone who is unaware of its pitfalls. Keep Bright, beautiful, cold!” ENTERTAINMENT AND contract, so read it thoroughly before you these tips in mind before obtaining and using Joan Dash takes remark- sign it. Watch for terms such as introductory a credit card. able photos of clouds and EVENTS rate, and be sure you know when that intro- For more tips and resources on how to writes haikus that often ductory interest rate expires. Plan Well, Invest Well, Live Well™, visit have an amusing twist. Pay your bill in full each month. Pay off our Advisor’s Blog at whzwealth.com/advi- Here are a few of hers: your statement each month in full and on sor-blog. “A shy naked maple time; otherwise, you will begin paying inter- Presented by Vice President, Associate Bares its intricate etch- est charges and may be charged late fees. Financial Advisor Leisl L. Cording, ings DON’T MISS Paying off your bill each month can also help CFP®. Securities and advisory services On a blue canvas.” ensure that you stay out of debt. offered through Commonwealth Financial “Grateful I’m human A THING! Track your spending. Look closely at your credit card statements each month to be sure Turn To CORDING page ­­­A9 Turn To WEISS page ­­­A9 V­ illager Newspapers Friday, April 9, 2021 • A9 Sports cards are Grow stevia – breaking records nature’s sweetener

SIn my last column, I reported on backlog. Polygon.com (a video game Sweeten your meals to crush the leaves and the Tom Brady rookie card that was website) reports that Pokémon cards by growing your own Garden release the sweetness. nearing $2 million in an online auction. are partially responsible for the back- sugar substitute in Dried leaves stored in The bidding ended on April 2, with the log at PSA. Believe it or not, rare 1990s gardens or contain- Moments an airtight jar will last rare card selling for $2.2 million. While Pokémon hologram cards in near per- ers. Stevia is nature’s for several years. there aren’t many cards worth millions fect condition can bring six figure sums. own sweetener that can You can grow ste- of dollars, auction prices for So, will card prices continue be snacked upon fresh MELINDA via indoors in a bright cards overall have skyrocket- to increase? There is no way or added to soups, sauc- MYERS sunny window or ed during the pandemic. Many to say for sure, but the late es, or beverages. under artificial lights. cards have more than doubled 1980s and early 1990s saw a card Wait for warm nights Purchase plants or or tripled in value over the past boom similar to what we are and the danger of frost start your own from year. experiencing today. To keep up to pass before planting stevia outdoors. cuttings. Check plants often and water A February Chicago Tribune with the demand during that It is a perennial in USDA zones 8 and thoroughly when the top few inches of article cites multiple reasons time, companies such as Topps, warmer, but those gardening in colder soil is starting to dry. Fertilize with a for the current sports card Fleer and Upper Deck drasti- areas must grow stevia like an annual. dilute solution of any fertilizer labeled boom. “Some industry analysts cally increased production. Start plants from seed, cuttings, or for use on indoor edible plants. Harvest see pandemic stay-at-home The demand dried up in the transplants. Seeds are difficult to find the leaves as needed to sweeten your boredom as fueling a resur- Antiques, early 1990s. Many people who and even more difficult to sprout. Use favorite dishes. gence of interest, as parents bought those cards as an invest- this method if you like a gardening Growing stevia indoors or out can add rediscover the hobby and share Collectibles ment are still sitting on boxes challenge. flavor to your beverages and meals and it with their children,” accord- of nearly worthless cards. It Reduce your effort and increase suc- fun to your gardening experience. ing to the Tribune. They also & Estates may be the right time to sell cess by starting with transplants. Check report, “investors who saw big your cards now before values garden centers and mail order catalogs Melinda Myers has written more returns on the stock market WAYNE TUISKULA decline again. for plants. Place Stevia plants 12 inches than 20 gardening books, including last year also have begun to We will soon be offering an apart in full sun or light shade with Small Space Gardening. She hosts buy into trading cards as an online auction of a large collec- moist well-drained soils. You will get The Great Courses “How to Grow alternative to equities, pumping up tion of sports and non-sports cards from the best growth and most leaves during Anything”DVD series and the nation- prices for the cardboard commodity.” a Holliston, Mass. estate. Our next ses- the long warm days of summer. ally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Prices in almost every type of sports sion of model railroad trains, die-cast Incorporate a low nitrogen slow-re- card and non-sports card category are cars, model kits and other toys will also lease fertilizer in the soil or potting Moment TV & radio program. Myers is seeing strong results. An unopened soon be running online. Our multi-es- mix at planting. These provide small also a columnist and contributing editor 1973 Topps wax pack of cards recently tate with jewelry, coins, paintings, more amounts of nutrients over a long period for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her Web sold for $780. A high grade 1976 Topps sports cards, and a wide variety of other of time. Make a second application mid- site is www.MelindaMyers.com. Walter Payton Rookie Card #148 went items takes place in May. Keep watch- season if needed. for $800. An average grade tobacco card ing www.centralmassauctions.com for Water new plantings often enough of Ty Cobb recently brought $3,250. details on all of these events or use the to keep the roots and sur- Despite being in altered condition, a email signup form on our homepage to rounding soil slightly 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle Rookie be notified of all upcoming events. moist. Gradually extend still sold for $7,100. the time between watering. PSA (Professional Sports Contact us at: Wayne Tuiskula Thoroughly water when- Authenticator) is the most popular card Auctioneer/Appraiser Central Mass ever the top few inches of grading company. Their business has Auctions for Antique Auctions, Estate soil are crumbly and slight- increased so much that they reported Sales and Appraisal Services www.cen- ly moist. Spread a layer of grading turnaround times were tak- tralmassauctions.com (508-612- 6111) evergreen needles, shred- ing up to nine months. They recently [email protected] ded leaves, or other organic put all submissions completely on hold matter over the soil surface. until they can catch up on some of the Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve the soil, reduc- ing your time weeding and watering. Harvest leaves as needed for sweetening your dishes. Munching on a single leaf can help suppress a sweet craving. You may be able to pass on a candy bar and go for a healthier option. Wait for cool short days at the end of the growing sea- son when the sweetness is most intense to make large harvests for drying. You can dry in a microwave, dehy- drator, or a warm dark loca- tion in your home. Cut, bun- dle, and hang stems upside down to air dry. Knock leaves off the stem and save the dried leaves in an air- Photo Melinda Myers tight jar. Grind the leaves by Stevia, nature’s own sweetener, can be grown indoors or hand or use a coffee grinder out as long as the plants receive proper care. Is it time to begin stepping into the light of normalcy?

What is your new nor- protocols are. decision for us. Being vaccinated I won’t act stupidly or irresponsibly mal? It’s your choice. “Masks don’t work” ... makes sense to us and we are happy but I will no longer allow the fear to Positively I think my life is forever wait ... “Masks do work with our choice. I don’t know what determine my actions nor rule my life. changed, even though I’m Speaking and are mandatory” ... to say to the anti-vaccination crowd. We have a finite number of minutes on not sure what that means. wait ... “one mask doesn’t I have two friends who are dead from this earth, and we plan on living them, I believe the pandemic has GARY W. work, so wear two” Covid. One died early in the pandem- unafraid and with family and friends. had a profound and maybe MOORE ... “After vaccination, ic and one in February. It’s real. It’s I encourage you to properly protect permanent impact on my masks won’t be required” not going away soon. We all must yourself and others, then do the same. life. Around the time this ... wait ... “Masks should make our choices based upon our per- Step out of the darkness of fear into the shut down began, I received a serious be worn into 2022 and maybe beyond.” sonal research, beliefs and needs. I’ll bright light of life. Walk in the sun. Say health diagnosis. This one-two punch Here’s the real kicker ... “Follow the encourage all to be vaccinated but will hi to your neighbors. Catch up with was powerful. science!” ... wait ... But we’ve learned also respect your choice regardless. each other and once again, breathe in In the beginning, we only left our that we really have been ignoring the Do your research and take the proper the fresh air of life. Hug your family. home for doctor visits and groceries. science when it comes to schools and precautions to protect you and others. Eat in your favorite restaurant. See For Christmas, our daughter signed the classroom. Instead, the teacher’s The late, great Vince Lombardi said, a friend you have not seen in a year. us up for Instacart, a shopping home unions are leading the way with no “Fatigue makes cowards of us all,” and Make up for lost time. delivery service and I haven’t been scientific basis at all. I think most of us are fatigued by this When the nurse put that needle in into a grocery store since Dec. 23. Who do we listen to? Who do we pandemic. Get out. Take a breath of my arm for the second vaccination, I I wear a mask out of the house believe? Who do we trust? No wonder fresh air. Do not be afraid. felt like screaming “Freedom!” I felt always and when I visit the hospital so many are frightened. I do believe it’s time to step out of the like I was given my life back. for chemo/immunotherapy treatment, I believe most health officials and darkness of fear and into the light. Southwest Airlines has a tag line I add a face shield. I wash my hands politicians continue to act on the best For Arlene and me, it’s time to take where there is a ‘ding’ and a flight and never pass a hand sanitizer oppor- information they have. I’m not a con- our lives back and we started by going attendant says, “Your free to move tunity. When the pizza man comes, he spiracy theorist and refuse to buy into grocery shopping and a visit to Staples. around the country.” leaves it on the porch, rings the door- that brand of anguish. Has the virus Small steps but positive steps towards It’s time. I hope to see you outside! bell and leaves. been politicized? Of course. It’s an normalcy. I realize my life has been reduced unfortunate part of our democratic I began by asking, “What is your Gary W. Moore is a freelance col- to an exceedingly small size. Partly system. I think most can see through new normal?” umnist, speaker, and author of three out of necessity. Partly from follow- and past it. Are we safe? Will we be It’s our choice to make. I’ll wear a books including the award-winning, ing the alleged science that seems to again? Were we ever? mask, but I’m not putting on a sec- critically acclaimed, “Playing with the change before our very eyes ... and I’m told that until we achieve ond. I’ll social distance but I’m going Enemy.” Follow Gary on Twitter @ partly ... maybe mostly ... out of fear. I eighty-percent herd immunity there to start living my life outside of our GaryWMoore721 and at www.garyw- think many Americans are frightened are still risks, but again, home. I can go into the store and pick moore.com. because the available info changes I’m tired of living my life waiting up my groceries. I can greet friends. within the moment and we really do for the next health directive. Arlene Maybe I’ll bump fists for a while rath- not know what the healthy and safe and I are vaccinated. It was an easy er than shaking hands. I’ll be cautious.

WEISS treetop drinking the dawn light CORDING continued from page A8­­­ to fire my breast.” continued from page A8­­­ “Gold dawn light, like wine With warmth, with shelter, with food “Fresh. Crisp taste, full of promise”. Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a I pray for lost cats.” Roll it on my tongue.” Registered Investment Adviser. These READING “Hydrangea blossoms, Our haikus have helped us cope. materials are general in nature and do they may look fragile in old They brought us personal insight and not address your specific situation. For Age, but they are strong. “ glimpses of what our friends were feel- your specific investment needs, please Philippa Paquette is full of energy ing. It took diligence to write every discuss your individual circumstances NEWSPAPERS and overall joy at being alive. She is a day. It took focus to count syllables as with your representative. Weiss, Hale prolific writer as well as being support- the world spun wildly. & Zahansky Strategic Wealth Advisors ive of the rest of us. Her poems range It took a bit of courage, just as it does does not provide tax or legal advice, widely. Here are just three: now, to share our 17 syllable thoughts and nothing in the accompanying “Fragile spring bulb tips with you. pages should be construed as specific IS A QUEST Push through cold, rejecting earth. During poetry month, please send tax or legal advice. 697 Pomfret Street, I want their power.” your poems or haikus to: Brendan@ Pomfret Center, CT 06259, 860-928-2341. “I am the robin villagernewspapers.com. http://www.whzwealth.com. LIKE NO OTHER A10 • Friday, April 9, 2021 Villager Newspapers OBITUARIES Carrie Nicole McClure (Gunderson), 40 Fernand E. Phaneuf, Jr., 88 Carrie Nicole McClure (Gunderson), of details. She was quick to offer any- WOODSTOCK, CT - Entrepreneur, as Fern’s Radio, as the successful sales age 40, of Danielson, Connecticut passed one help, whether she knew them or community leader, pilot, and avid fish- and service distributor of Motorola away on Wednesday, February 17th, not. Carrie had many interests and tal- erman, Fernand Edgar Phaneuf, Jr., Products. He also owned and opened 2021. Carrie was born ents, most notably her gift for writing 88, better known as Fern, passed away Guardian Answering Service, In-Touch on April 19th, 1980 poetry. Though not many were able to on March 29, 2021. His greatest joy Communications, and Tower Sites, Inc. to Brenda J. Morin see her work, Carrie had mastered the in life was his fam- Fern was also involved in his com- (Hubert, Gunderson) written word and could make a reader ily, and he was sur- munity. In his early years, he would and the late Gregory truly feel what she was feeling. She rounded by them as be seen putting up Christmas lights for K. Gunderson. loved animals and when she met some- he passed. Fern is the Town of Putnam or serving as a vol- Carrie is survived one’s pet she was always their new survived by his lov- unteer with the Woodstock Volunteer by her loving sister, best friend. She loved being outside ing wife of 65 years Fire Department. Fern could not just Ashley B. Gunderson, and could always be found at Pulaski Lorraine (Riendeau) do it, he had to lead it. He served as her two children, State Park or Mashamoquet during Phaneuf; his two chil- President of the fire department for Robyn S. McClure and Christopher the summer, swimming and having dren, Anne Falvey three years and also served as President R. McClure, her step-father Emile cookouts with those she loved. Though and Michael Phaneuf, of the Smithfield Figure Skating Club R. Morin, and her step-sister Ashley Carrie had her struggles, she always and his husband John in Rhode Island, one of the skating A. Nicolosi (Morin), as well as many maintained her kindness and ability to Moniz: his grandchil- clubs where his son Michael trained in other family members and friends. She care for others. She was loved by many, dren, Christopher the sport. However, he is most known will also be missed a lot by her grand- and will be sorely missed by those who Syrek and his wife for his involvement in the Woodstock mother, Patricia Gunderson, who loved knew and loved her. Tori, Gregory Syrek, Fair, or “Papa’s Fair”, as it is known to Carrie unconditionally, and whom A celebration of life will be held at a Sean Falvey, Jessie his daughter Anne and grandsons. He Carrie loved dearly as well. time to be determined when Covid-19 is Phaneuf-Moniz, and served first as the Superintendent of Carrie was a hard worker and was no longer a concern. Anthony Phaneuf- Grounds and then as General Manager very attentive to the even the smallest Moniz, and his great for 27 years. He was known for bring- granddaughter Grace Anne Syrek. In ing in record numbers of guests and addition, he is survived by his nephew turning the three day fair into the Leon N. Gothreau, Jr., 91 Jeff Cartier and his wife Alice, and four day fair that it is today. In his his niece Judy (Cartier) Favreault and spare time, Fern enjoyed being on his PUTNAM – Leon “Bing” Gothreau, traveling and spending time with his her husband Roland. He is preceded in boat fishing, traveling with his wife 91, of Fairmount St., passed away on family. death by his sister Jeanette (Phaneuf) Lorraine, and spending time with his Sunday, March 28, 2021 at St. Vincent’s Leon is survived by his son, James Cartier, his brother-in-law John children and grandchildren. Hospital in Worcester, Gothreau of Putnam; his daughter, Cartier, Sr., his nephew, John Cartier, Services are private and a MA. He was the lov- Elaine Richmond and her husband Jr., and his son in-law, Daniel Syrek. Celebration of Life will be held in the ing husband of the Clark of Pomfret Center; his sister, Born and raised in Woodstock, CT Fall. Arrangements have been entrust- late Claire L. (Petrin) Dolores Ziobrowski of Chandler, AZ; to the late Fernand Phaneuf, Sr. and ed to the Gilman Funeral Home & Gothreau for 65 years. his grandchildren, Michele Norman, Edourdina (Garceau) Phaneuf, he Crematory, 104 Church St, Putnam, CT. They were married Clinton Richmond, Paisley Jaymes attended Woodstock Academy and Memorial donations may be made to the on October 11, 1952 at Gothreau, and Shai-Lin Gothreau; graduated with the class of 1951. He Woodstock Fair for a scholarship fund Saint Mary Church of his great-grandchildren, Lorenzo served in the United States Army in the being created in Fern’s memory by the the Visitation. Born Richmond, Luke Norman, Lydia Military Police Corp during the Korean Woodstock Agricultural Society and in Putnam, he was Norman, and Francesca Richmond; Conflict. Upon his return, he attend- the Woodstock Fair. Send to Woodstock the son of the late and his daughter in-law, Ann-Marie ed and graduated from New England Fair, PO Box 1, S. Woodstock, CT 06287. Leon N. Gothreau, Sr. Gothreau of Putnam. Institute of Technology (formerly Please earmark it for the Fern Phaneuf and Edna (LaDoux) Relatives and friends were invited known as New England Technical Scholarship. For memorial guestbook, Gothreau. to visit with Leon’s family from 9:30 Institute). Shortly thereafter, he start- please visit www.GilmanandValade. Mr. Gothreau was a a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 6, ed one of his first entrepreneurial ven- com. graduate of St. Mary 2021 in the Gilman Funeral Home, 104 tures, Fern’s Radio & TV, later known School and went on Church St. Putnam, CT followed by a to graduate from Mass of Christian Burial which begin Putnam High School at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Church in 1948. He was a member of the 1946 of the Visitation, 218 Providence St., Jean Ann Burton “undefeated” Putnam High School Putnam, CT Burial in Saint Mary Jean Ann Burton (Terwilleger) love of reading, and was an endless football team and part of their track Cemetery. Memorial donations may passed away on the 18th of March, source of support for her children until team. He served his country during the be made to PAWS animal shelter, 2021, in Florida. A Connecticut native, her final days. Jean (and her famous Korean War. He worked as a journey- 240 Route 171., Woodstock, CT 06281. Jean was born on coffee cakes) will be greatly missed by man millwright carpenter for Rogers For memorial guestbook visit www. September 17, 1942 her family. Corp. from 1964 to 1992. He enjoyed GilmanAndValade.com. in South Killingly Jean also leaves behind her loving as the only child of husband of 35 years, Henry Burton. Henrietta Pichie The pair met later in life and comple- Yolande B. Rounds-Tichey, 92 and Robert (Sam) mented each other in every way. Jean Yolande B. (Lalumière) Rounds- vived by two additional children, her Terwilleger. She grad- and Henry lived the kind of retire- Tichey, age 92 years young, of Fairfield, son, Jean and daughter, Anne-Marie; uated from Killingly ment many of us dream of: they split CT, peacefully passed into life everlast- grandchildren, Michele, Erika, Nathan High School in 1960 their time between Connecticut and ing with her daughter, Beverley, hold- and Benjamin; great grandchildren, and went on to attend Florida following good weather and ing her hand on Good Victor, Daron and Tiani; great great Roger Williams University. After golf seasons. They enjoyed the compa- Friday, April 10, 2020. grandson, Aiden; one brother, Gustave earning her nursing license in 1963, ny of many close friends and neighbors She was born into a Lalumière and many nieces and neph- Jean worked as a registered nurse at in both places. Jean and Henry were large loving Catholic ews. She is predeceased by her par- Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam for long-time members of the Quinnatisset family (8th of 16 chil- ents and sisters, Rosina Pouliot, Anna 36 years until her retirement in 2005. Country Club in Thompson, CT and the dren) in Weedon, Tetreault, Cécil Brunet, Émilienne While at Day Kimball, Jean worked in New Smyrna Municipal Golf Club in Quebec, Canada to Ciborowski and Aline Deloge; broth- the recovery room, the OR, and was New Smyrna Beach, FL. Louis Clarence and ers, Henri-Louis, René, Alfred Leopold, the charge (supervisory) nurse of the Jean leaves behind her husband Léonie M. (Lafond) Gérard, Jean Marc, Normand, Jacques, ambulatory care unit when it opened. Henry Burton; her two daughters Susan Lalumière. Her fami- Claude and Pierre. On the 1st anniver- Jean cared deeply about her work and (Cooper) Theroux (Paul) and Patty ly came to the United States in 1941 and sary of her death a funeral mass will be continued to volunteer at the hospi- (Cooper) Bradbury; her stepchildren settled in Danielson, CT. She became held at St. James Church, 12 Franklin tal following her retirement. She is Debbie (Burton) Weld (Craig), Linda a United Stated citizen in 1949 and Street, Danielson, CT on April 10, 2021 remembered by her colleagues as one (Burton) Dube (Peter), Scott Burton lived at her home in Lake Hills for 55 at 10:00am. Immediately following the of the most hardworking and dedicated (Christine); her nine grandchildren; as years. She was a retired employee of mass her ashes will be taken to Holy RNs at Day Kimball during her 36-year well as countless close friends. She is Harvey Hubbell Co., a faithful parish- Cross Cemetery for burial with her tenure. preceded in death by her parents, and ioner of St. Pius X Church, a fan of family. Masks and social distancing While Jean’s career gave her much to her favorite Aunt, Alice Mott. the Boston Red Sox and forever a true rules will apply for those attending. In be proud of, her greatest sense of pride A celebration of life will be held in French Canadian at heart. Her great- lieu of flowers, family and friends are came from being a mom, stepmom, and Brooklyn, CT in June. In lieu of flow- est enjoyment during retirement was invited to donate in her memory to: grandma. Jean raised her two daugh- ers, memorial donations may be made her passion for walking and to see the Society of the Little Flower – https:// ters, Susan (Cooper) Theroux and Patty to the Quinebaug Valley Senior Citizen United States on the back of a motorcy- www.littleflower.org (Cooper) Bradbury, in Killingly. Jean Center, 69 South Main St., Brooklyn, cle. Her love of Christmas was never Mom, You may have forgotten many passed on her strong work ethic and CT. 06234. celebrated without the true meaning. things but the one thing you never Always ready with a hug and many forgot was how to say “I love you.” You love taps, she will be remembered by will be with us in our hearts forever her family as a loving daughter, sister, until we see you again. Love, John, aunt, godmother, wife, mom, mother- Annie and Bev www.860Local.com in-law, Mémé and friend. She is sur- COMMUNITY they inspire me in the process.” which is generally rare in my opinion, also helps younger students through continued from page A1­­­ While the B Club focuses on medical especially seeing what we do in honor a mentoring program in coordination issues, EarthSave members grow food societies and things like that. I think with local elementary schools. lowed halls. Earthsave, Family Related in a garden which is then shared with it’s very important to donate your time It’s all a vital part of the learning pro- Effective Solutions for Humanity those who are food insecure. They vol- and energy towards certain selfless cess that exposes Woodstock Academy (FRESH), Multicultural Club, and unteer to clean areas of trash and even activities such as volunteering, usual- students to the true needs of the world School Climate Activists all share the come up with innovative ideas such ly involving helping other people, and around them and shows them that one mission of serving the greater commu- as creating lip balm out of beeswax, FRESH is a great way to do just that,” person or a group of people can indeed nity. provided to them by assistant head of Werstler said. make a large difference. “EarthSave club brings students school John Rigney and his family. FRESH also helps those dealing with “There is great power in the smallest together that are inspired to be change FRESH is a group that offers students food insecurity through a food pan- gesture of kindness, and when individ- agents,” said advisor Melany Gronski. many ways to lend a helping hand. try that supplies dozens of Woodstock uals understand that they have access “These students will not accept that It helped senior Eli Werstler realize Academy students’ families with food to this kind of power to change society, the environmental problems of climate there is more to school life than school on a weekly basis. The group also holds it indicates that their educational expe- change, pollution, and food shortage are sports. “I became involved in FRESH fundraisers for scholarship programs, riences at The Academy have been suc- hopeless. They live in hope and want to last year, though I wish now that I had sponsors a conference for middle cessful,” said Woodstock Academy asso- act. They desire to be empowered and joined earlier. I think that the club school students who will be attending ciate head of school Holly Singleton. really does positive, important things, Woodstock Academy in the future, and

101Anniversary V­ illager Newspapers Friday, April 9, 2021 • A11 A12 • Friday, April 9, 2021 Villager Newspapers How to foster a love of music in children

Music enriches people’s lives in myr- television while preparing meals, par- hearing. iad ways. Age is of no consideration ents can play music instead. Let young- • Dance to music. Kids are bundles when it comes to benefitting from and sters pick their own songs or mix it up of energy, and dancing is a fun way for appreciating music, but it seems that by including some of mom and dad’s them to expend some of that energy. young people in particular have a lot to favorites as well. Such exposure can be Dancing also provides a great reason gain from music education. incredibly valuable for youngsters. In to play music. Physical activity set to According to the New England Board fact, a 2016 study from researchers at music can help kids burn off some extra of Higher Education, various studies the University of Southern California energy as they develop their brains, have found that consistent music edu- found that musical experiences in child- making dance sessions a win-win for cation can improve vocabulary and hood accelerate brain development. both parents and children. reading comprehension skills. In addi- Music is especially effective at helping • Embrace opportunities to see live tion, the National Association for Music children in language acquisition and music. Kids are often captivated by see- Education says that research has found reading. ing musicians perform in person. When a significant relationship between arts • Replay kids’ favorite songs. Another possible, take youngsters to concerts, participation at school and academic way to build kids’ enthusiasm for music local music festivals and/or restaurants success. is to replay some of their favorite songs. that showcase local musicians. Such Parents who want their children to While mom and dad may cringe at the excursions may prompt youngsters to reap the benefits of being involved with prospect of hearing “Baby Shark” sev- want to learn how to play, which can music can try the following strategies eral times in a row, they should take provide a host of additional benefits, aimed at fostering a love of music in note of how enthusiastic their kids even for especially young children. In young people. become when hearing a favorite song. fact, a 1996 study published in Nature • Turn the television off and turn And that enthusiasm can benefit their found that first grade students who Music enriches people’s lives in var- music on. Exposing youngsters to language skills as they listen closely took part in music classes during art ious ways, and exposure to music at a music is one of the simplest and most to the lyrics in an effort to memorize study programs experienced marked young age can be especially valuable to effective ways to get them to embrace the words. Youngsters may not be so improvement in reading and math pro- children. it. For example, in lieu of turning on the receptive if they don’t like what they’re ficiency.