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Volume 42, Number 49 Published by The Glastonbury Citizen September 14, 2018 Trying to Reduce Arrigoni Suicides by Elizabeth Regan The state Department of Transportation has and have an overall reductive effect in a geo- announced measures local officials hope will graphic region,” he wrote on Sept. 8. significantly reduce suicides on the 80-year-old State transportation department spokesman Arrigoni Bridge. Kevin Nursick said the fencing is not “easily A letter from transportation department Com- defeatable.” missioner James Redeker to Middletown Mayor “It will act as a deterrent for reckless and Daniel Drew said the department will install 8- irresponsible thrill seekers and hopefully also foot-high fencing on both sidewalk railings for as a deterrent for folks who are considering the entire length of the bridge. The work will harming themselves,” Nursick said. occur as part of an estimated $37 million project He emphasized anti-suicide fencing is not to repair the approaches on either side of the typically installed on the 4,000 bridges under bridge. The work is slated to begin in 2019 with state control. When 8-foot fencing is used, it is an expected completion date in 2021. traditionally limited to areas directly over high- Drew has been advocating for suicide pre- ways – in this case, Route 9. He credited input vention measures on the bridge for three years, from municipal leaders and area mental health ever since the July 2015 murder of 7-month- agencies for the department’s decision to con- old Aaden Moreno by his father, Tony Moreno. tinue the heightened fence for the full length of A jury in February 2017 convicted Tony the bridge. Moreno of murder and risk of injury to a mi- Nursick said the fencing is likely to go up nor; a Middlesex Superior Court judge sen- during the latter part of the project, though he tenced him to 70 years in prison that May. cautioned the exact timing is still to be deter- The same day Moreno was sentenced, Port- mined. land police responded to an unrelated call for a Drew said in his Facebook post he was jumper on the bridge. According to the depart- shocked to learn about how many people die ment, the suicide involved a gun. by suicide on the bridge. The protective fence may be similar to one “It’ll be a few years before these fences are of the two types of fencing used on the new installed and longer even before new data is Tappan Zee Bridge, according to the letter: thin available but, when they are, I expect that the wire mesh or non-climbable wire fencing. number of suicides experienced there will drop A project to replace the center deck was com- precipitously and hopefully in this region over- pleted in November 2012. State transportation all,” he wrote. department documents show the upcoming ini- Data provided by the Middletown Police tiative will address the deck spans on either side Department this week show police responded of the bridge, replace sidewalks, install new 42 times since 2010 to suicide-related emer- pedestrian railings and update lighting. gency calls on the bridge, which could include Engineers said traffic lanes will be reduced suicides, attempted suicides, suspicious activ- to one lane each for the expected 18-month con- ity and well-being checks. It is unclear how struction period on the approach decks. many people ultimately jumped or how many Never Forget… The Belltown community converged on the Congregational Drew hailed the addition of protective fenc- died. Church of East Hampton lawn Tuesday to honor first responders who died in the ing last week in a post on his Facebook page. Six of those calls originated on the Portland attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. Roughly 170 “Research has shown that preventative mea- side of the bridge, according to the data. people in attendance also paid homage to local police, fire and ambulance personnel sures, like barrier fences, reduce significantly Middletown Police Department spokes- who respond to local emergencies every day. or eliminate suicides and attempts at those sites See Arrigoni page 2 Oei Wins First Runner-Up at Miss America by Sloan Brewster Hebron’s Bridget Oei didn’t take home the new title. rience to compete in the Miss America program. to answer an additional question. This one asked crown in the Miss America pageant Sunday She also said the lack of the swimsuit por- Oei’s response was that the new format of her to name something she wished she could night. tion did not dampen her enthusiasm in the least. the competition gives a deeper focus to high- invent. She replied that she wanted to create an But she came pretty darn close. “I really appreciate that the new competition lighting the multi-faceted talents of competi- app that would allow the user to plug in symp- Oei, who won Miss Connecticut in June, was – Miss America 2.0 – was focused on highlight- tors. toms someone was experiencing to determine named first runner-up at the national competi- ing the accomplishments of the 51 people com- Be creative, she said. if they need to go to the hospital or if someone tion, while Miss New York, Nia Franklin, was peting,” she said. “Sometimes when you’re “Think outside the box when generating a should dial 911. the overall winner. According to WTNH-TV, looking at swimsuits, you don’t get that same talent,” she recalled answering. “You don’t nec- “A few years ago one of my good friends in Oei’s finish marked the first time since 1936 a connection.” essarily have to do a fine arts talent.” college had a stroke,” she said. “He was 21 and Connecticut resident has made it to the top five In place of swimsuits, the competition made Instead, Oei said she suggested that competi- healthy and my friends and I didn’t recognize at Miss America. room for contestants to talk about themselves tors work with something they know, such as a the symptoms until 24 hours later.” The competition was dubbed this year “Miss and answer questions about their jobs and roles, love for athleticism. Shultis, who had no back- If they had realized they needed to bring him America 2.0,” due to recent changes made to Oei explained. It gave them a chance to learn ground in fine arts, had faced that challenge, to the hospital, doctors could have given him the event – the most prolific of which was elimi- from one another. Oei said. the appropriate medication and possibly pre- nating the swimsuit portion. In a phone call The additional questions were peer-gener- “Miss Nebraska herself did a monologue vented the stroke. Monday, the day after the competition took ated, and Oei’s came from Miss Nebraska, Jes- about her battle with cancer and her struggle, “I’m always thinking of inventions and dif- place in Atlantic City’s Jim Whelan Boardwalk sica Lynn Shultis, who asked her how she en- so that was one [way to handle it],” she said. ferent ways to make things better,” Oei said. “I Hall, Oei, 22, repeatedly referred to it with its courages young women with no fine arts expe- When she was named to the top 10, Oei had See Oei Wins page 2 Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cov Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cover Story ï Cov

Arrigoni cont. from Front Page woman Heather Desmond said the Middletown and Portland police departments split the bridge down the middle. According to Portland police, calls on the Portland side of the bridge included the May 2017 suicide involving a gun and a November 2012 suicide. Portland First Selectwoman Susan Bransfield Bridget Oei took her skill in Irish step dancing to the Miss America stage. The stressed Drew was the impetus for the project, Hebron native, who was named Miss Connecticut in June, was named first runner- but added she has been kept in the loop by staff up in the Miss America 2019 competition. members with the state transportation depart- ment. Oei Wins cont. from Front Page “It is a beautiful bridge and I trust the DOT would love to start working on it.” cut to continue spreading the word on her theme will do their best to maintain the beauty as well Oei, who is half-Irish and half-Chinese, nods for her year as Miss Connecticut – Women in as the integrity of the bridge,” she said, acknowl- to each culture when competing. A longtime STEM: Inspiring the Next Generation of Inno- edging concerns from at least one resident who competitive Irish step dancer, she took her danc- vators. She plans to tour schools and talk to was worried the protective fencing would ob- ing skill to the Miss America stage. She said young women about exploring science, tech- struct the bridge’s well-known vistas. she was proud to showcase the Irish art in the nology, engineering and math (STEM). “I certainly respect and will work with the competition and on national television. Oei, a University of Connecticut environ- DOT to enhance safety on the Arrigoni Bridge,” The red color of her gown spoke to her Chi- mental chemistry graduate, has only been com- she added. nese side. A lucky color in Chinese culture, red peting in pageants for the past three years. As The Arrigoni approach project will also in- is the color of every gown Oei chooses for com- first runner-up in Miss America, she was clude six suicide prevention call signs that could petitions. Her Miss America gown was designed awarded a $25,000 scholarship. In June, when be installed on either end of the bridge and in the middle, according to Nursick. A state Department of Transportation by Jovani Couture with beads and sparkles at she was crowned Miss CT, she won $17,000 plan to upgrade the approaches on the top and was sponsored by Regalia Magnifi- toward graduate school. Bransfield said the signage has been a par- cent Apparel. She plans to pursue medicine and said she ticular area of focus for her based on sugges- either side of the Arrigoni Bridge will “I just felt so fierce and confident wearing will use the scholarships for her first year of tions from residents. include anti-suicide fencing across the it,” Oei said. med school. She won’t know where she’s go- The Portland public works department – entire span and half a dozen signs (one Oei said she is excited to return to Connecti- ing until the spring. which will be responsible for maintaining the of which is shown here) so those who signs on the Portland side of the bridge – has may be contemplating suicide know been working with the transportation depart- where to go for help. ment on appropriate signage, according to Bransfield. are awaiting installation by the transportation Nursick said the signs have been made and department soon. Hebron Fair Offers Variety of Activities by Sloan Brewster appearance in the fair’s 48 year history. The There was a bit of everything at the Hebron 150-foot ride was brought in by the fair’s Harvest Fair last weekend. amusement provider – Reithoffer Shows Inc, The fair, which is hosted by the Hebron Li- according to Michael Tarbell, fair superinten- ons Agricultural Society, took place Sept. 6 dent. through 9. Caleb said the ride was fun, but Dizzy Dragon Paul Wnuk of Manchester took a turn on the was his favorite. pull-up bar at the U.S. military’s booth, and Despite the proximity of the cows, Caleb said performed 11 of them. This was his first time he had no interest in giving them a closer look. at the iconic fair, and Wnuk was there to snack “I don’t like the smell,” he said. on fair food and was especially interested in Caleb and Wes also enjoyed the tractor pull, the delicious fried pickles. and said the tractor they watched took on too Wnuk was not alone – a lot of folks were much weight, causing the engine to blow. there for the food. Rivereast was on hand for that episode as well. Barbara Storey of Marlborough said she The engine screamed as it revved, black smoke started out with a milksh/ake and a steak and billowing from the overburdened machine be- cheese sandwich and topped it off with pop- fore the announcer declared its demise. corn, but she also enjoyed other aspects of the Inside the barn of cows, Rauri Phelon, 9, of day. Prospect Farm in Westfield, Mass., was “It was just nice to be able to be outside and mucking a stall while her sister Dakota Lyn enjoy yourself,” she said. “It’s been so hot. It Phelon, 11, and cousin Madison Riba, 6, tended just makes this more enjoyable.” three milking cows – Nikki, Cutie Pie and With so many options, the Rivereast stopped Shaylee. by a couple of local booths to chat about how The farm has been to seven fairs so far this they were doing – and try to snatch some of year and plans to hit nine or 10 before the fair The annual Hebron Harvest Fair returned last weekend and offered something their recipes. season comes to a close, said Bridget Riba, for everyone. Pictured, Paul Wnuk of Manchester takes a turn on the pull-up bar, Marlborough Congregational Church was Madison’s mom. eventually cranking out 11 of them. Despite a rainy start, the four-day festival drew offering up hot apple crumble made by Chef “I like coming to the fair to show other kids 117,000, with attendance particularly strong on the weekend, fair superintendent Charles Williams. The recipe was a no-go, how- the cows and I love seeing their faces when they Mike Tarbell said. ever. first pet the cows,” Dakota said. “It’s a secret recipe,” said Darren Cook, Dealing with the cows at fairs also ties into In the Arts & Crafts tent, Keith Butzgy of K not rooted for Donald Rump Roast, the winner church member. “I tell everybody we peel 100 Dakota’s long-term plans to maintain the farm & K Custom of Columbia, displayed in the first round she witnessed. Rather, she was [apples]. Gotta be Granny Smith.” many years from now. If it goes her way, she Adirondack chairs with custom engravings that shooting for Tyrone the Terrible. Sales at the fair and at Hebron’s annual Maple and Rauri will live there together with some he makes of solid plastic using Connecticut- “He had horns sticking out his nose and he Fest support the church’s general budget, herding dogs that will keep the cows in line, developed software. was really fat and wrinkly,” she said of Tyrone. Denise Seifert, church member, said. Seifert and she said. As Butzgy was talking about his hobby and Miley Swinus won the second round, and Cook said business was steady and they were “[I] want to keep the farm going no matter saying it was his first time displaying the chairs again, Lorryn was hoping for another racer. In going though lots of trays. what I have to do,” she said. at a fair, a child suddenly ran up to Bryan that round, she wanted Lady Hoga to come in Nearby, the French Social Circle, of East Standing outside the barn, Grace Balogh of Tarbell, of Naked Steel Baking Supplies of ahead. Hartford, was selling poutine to support the Willow Ridge Farm was giving a cow a haircut Columbia, who shared the booth with Butzgy. “There [were] two that looked really mean club. According to Richard Marcel, club presi- and showed off some of the tricks of the trade. The child, Graeme Tarbell, 7, smiled excit- and [Lady Hoga] was not a mean one,” she said. dent, it’s a French-Canadian recipe consisting “She’s a little chubby up here,” Balogh said, edly as he told, Tarbell – his dad – about a dog “Miley Swinus was mean.” of cheddar cheese curds and gravy over French pointing at the chest area under the animal’s he had just seen at DockDogs. On the way out of the fair, this Rivereast re- fries. chin. “If we take a little off there, it thins her “He jumped eight feet!” Graeme said, his porter accepted a ride in one of the Lions Club’s A pair of Bristol residents – Caleb Brown out.” face glowing as he described the dog leaping golf carts. Driver Chap Thomson, who “just and Wes Brown, who are not related – were at Jennifer DeAngelo, of Plymouth, Mass., to reach a beam before splashing into the wa- joined” the club, said it was not uncommon for the fair together and took a few minutes of re- stood in one of the stalls affectionately strok- ter. “He had to jump eight feet!” folks to forget where they parked in the huge laxation at a picnic table in front of the cow ing a cow, smoothing the letter’s “Got Milk” The pooch missed his next target of 8.2 feet, lot. exhibition barn after enjoying burgers and that Balogh had shaped into its beige coat. however, the boy and his older brother, Lucas “Most people just forget to notice where they homemade potato chips and trying out a few “They’re just beautiful,” DeAngelo said of Tarbell, 11, said. are,” he said. rides. the cows, which are her favorite part of the fair. The boy’s sister, Lorryn Tarbell, 10, chimed Phew, I wasn’t alone. Ten-year-old Caleb said his first ride of the As to the “Got Milk” haircut, she said it was in that she had enjoyed the pig races but had day was the roller coaster, which made its first hilarious.

Portland Officials Hope to Curb Voting Tension by Elizabeth Regan Dan Malloy and Ned Lamont were on the $39,750 for the registrars’ part-time salary, poll one from Bransfield and Curley, to come in and Officials are hopeful increased staffing and Democratic ballot and Tom Foley, then-Lt. Gov. worker stipends, voting machine maintenance advise the election team when issues arise – enhanced communication at the polls this No- Michael Fedele and Oz Griebel were on the and conferences and meetings. The line item even when the registrars involved are not new vember will ensure Election Day runs more Republican ballot. represents a decrease of 4.22 from last year’s to the job. smoothly than the recent primaries. Republican turnout came in at 34.43 percent budget. Neville said she expects the meeting will help First Selectwoman Susan Bransfield said last of eligible voters in 2010, while Democratic Data provided by Curley shows the registrars open the lines of communication between the week that she and Town Clerk Ryan Curley turnout came in at 31.60 percent. currently make an annual salary of $5,483, plus registrars, Curley and Bransfield. have received complaints from poll workers and Neumann has been in her role since 2000 and $536 each for every primary, election or refer- Neumann said the two registrars are already residents about “confusion” at the Republican Neville has been there since 2012. endum. Deputy registrars make $13.05 per hour at work lining up election workers and training and Democratic primaries on Aug. 14. Curley said low staffing numbers can be a for a primary or election, while poll workers them. Neumann and Neville are also ordering Bransfield attributed the problem to a lack problem because it means long days for the few make minimum wage. ballots, getting the tabulator cards programmed of poll workers. poll workers in attendance. Bransfield said a working group consisting and arranging for the voting machines to be “I did have a few complaints that there was “I think that leads to tension at the polls,” he of Curley, Neville, Neumann and regional elec- tested two weeks before the election. perhaps some confusion, when questions were said. tion monitor Carol Conklin has been formed to Curley and Bransfield said officials will be asked and there weren’t enough people to an- The first selectwoman and town clerk cited ensure a smooth election process this Novem- addressing other concerns, including the cur- swer,” Bransfield said. complaints from poll workers about yelling ber. The group will be meeting this month. rent exit from the polling place in the middle Republican Registrar of Voters Pauline among the registrars on Primary Day. Bransfield Conklin’s role as regional election monitor school band room. Located on the side of the Neumann and Democratic Registrar of Voters attributed the tension to fatigue. was created through 2015 legislation, accord- building, voters currently tend to walk down a Athena Neville said this week they had not an- “I need to do what I can as far as making ing to Lower Connecticut River Valley Coun- grassy hill to the parking area in front of the ticipated the number of voters who came out to sure there are enough workers available,” cil of Governments (RiverCOG) Executive Di- building instead of following a paved walkway choose the gubernatorial candidates who will Bransfield said. rector Samuel Gold. He said Conklin is respon- in the other direction that leads to the drive- be facing off in November. Neumann acknowledged it was “a long day” sible for working with election officials in way. “We were a couple people short, but we did at the polls, adding it can get “a little stress- RiverCOG’s 17-town coverage area to ensure Curley said he hopes to work with public manage to get everybody’s vote in,” Neville ful.” all workers are properly trained. works director Bob Shea to install a paved path- said. “Everybody got their vote.” Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., with Conklin said last week her position, funded way, with enhanced lighting, to help voters ar- Neumann said primaries are typically “very registrars and moderators arriving early and by a grant from the state, allows her to provide rive safely at their vehicles. slow,” which left them surprised by the num- staying late. “hands-on” guidance to those responsible for The registrars emphasized everything is on ber of voters who came through the doors this But neither registrar would confirm there was elections in each town. She said much of her track for a successful election in November. year. yelling involved. focus is on new registrars. Neumann and Neville predicted a large turn- Turnout at the Republican and Democratic “I’m not going to say it did or it didn’t [hap- “The thing is, there’s been years and years out. The Republican surmised new levels of primaries came in at 31.62 percent and 30.77 pen],” Neville said. “I don’t know what they’re of history of the assumption that one registrar voter engagement are the result of concern over percent, respectively, according to Curley. He referring to.” would always train another registrar. They’re how taxpayer money is being spent, while the said there were a total of three Republicans and Registrars of voters, who are elected every two different parties, they don’t always get Democrat attributed it to “anger” over the cur- five Democrats working the polls that day. four years, are responsible for administering along. They may get along, but they may not rent political climate. But statistics from the Office of the Secre- elections, registering voters and appointing and see each other,” she said. “It’s been an assump- They agreed that voting is the best way to tary of the State indicate that in 2010 – which training election officials in accordance with tion that kind of went on too long because it’s get those points across. is the last time gubernatorial nominations for state election laws. not a good working assumption.” “This is the American way,” Neumann said. both parties were contested – turnout was actu- The current elections budget includes She said it’s typical to get requests, like the “This is how you express yourself.” ally higher than it was this year. That’s when Fireworks A Go For Fall Festival in Colchester by Allison Lazur The date for the 14th annual Celebrate Quinn said donations came from several pri- get restrictions and vendor requests, she said. with the expectation that they fund all local Colchester-57 Fest is fast approaching and lack vate individuals and several businesses, includ- “When we realized that donations were not community events. This may include of funding for the event’s fireworks was cause ing Troiano Chrysler Jeep Dodge, Dime Bank, going to be received as they had in recent years, fundraising, donation drives, sponsorships and for concern for the town’s parks and recreation Copies Plus More, Willimantic Waste and The we cut expenses where we could without it af- more.” department – until Monday. Music Bureau. fecting the event,” she said. “Some of the feed- The presenting sponsor or top sponsor for That’s when Parks and Recreation Director “We are so thankful to all of the generous back that we received from vendors and busi- this year’s event is Alpha Q, Inc., an aerospace Tiffany Quinn said the fireworks are “a go” as donations that we have received over the past nesses had to do with the layout, times and fees manufacturing company. Other sponsors in- part of the popular fall festival. weekend from businesses and members of the associated with the event. We were able to work clude Baldi Stone and Gravel, Reliable Auto, After sending out an email blast last week- community,” Quinn said in an email to the with them to establish mutually agreeable terms Sharr Realty, Daniels Oil, Goldi-Locks Self end to anyone who subscribes to the festival’s Rivereast. She described the support as “over- that seemed to benefit everyone involved.” Storage, First Approach EMS Education and website and posting on the festival’s Facebook whelming.” Quinn said even after expenses were cut, the Staffing, and Angelo’s Bakery. page asking for last minute donations, Quinn Quinn said the festival is still short $950, parks and recreation department still “faced The Celebrate Colchester- 57 Fest is sched- said several businesses and individuals stepped but she was confident the goal would be met. challenges meeting the sponsorship goals,” but uled to take place Sept. 22 from 1-8:30 p.m. at up to raise the $5,700 needed for the $8,325 The event is “a go,” she said – “fireworks that funding has been a problem for the past the recreation complex on Old Hebron Rd. Rain fireworks. and all.” few years. date is Sept. 23. The post urged those interested in donating The parks and recreation department has Quinn said in the future the parks and recre- Anyone interested in making donations can to do so by 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 10 or risk been soliciting donations for the festival for the ation department “will look to partner with the call the town’s park and recreation office or visit having the fireworks canceled due to lack of past several months and has spent a portion of town and the community to ensure that we are www.celebrate-colchester.com. funds. that time making changes to accommodate bud- not putting an undue burden on local businesses

East Hampton Budget Goes to Voters – Yet Again by Elizabeth Regan The third town budget referendum will be crease of 15.74 percent over the current year. budget. dorsed by the council last month and on Mon- held Wednesday in the latest installment of a The budget proposal, if approved by voters The advocates for the school system were day by voters at a town meeting (see related protracted and contentious budget season with at referendum, could result in a mill rate of further angered by the finance board’s refusal story on page __). opposing factions each claiming the other side 32.21 mills, which would amount to a 0.89 mill to endorse a plan crafted by Finance Director Councilors in August approved the latest is holding the process hostage. increase over the current year. The projected Jeff Jylkka at the request of Superintendent of town budget proposal with an emphatic mes- The $14.95 million budget proposal approved increase is down from the 1.01 mill increase School Paul K. Smith. The budget maneuver sage for those who may be considering voting by the Town Council in August – which includes associated with the budget proposal that failed would have taken $250,000 slated for student down the budget in the hope of restoring any general government operations, debt and capi- in June. computer tablets and classroom interior door teaching positions: If the spending plan fails tal spending – represents a 5.16 percent increase Property taxes for someone with a home as- locks out of the town’s proposed 2018-19 capi- again, the council will make further cuts. over the current budget. The increase is largely sessed at $250,000 would go up $223 in the tal budget, funding them instead through a por- According to Republican Town Committee driven by debt from the high school renovation upcoming budget year if the general govern- tion of the past fiscal year’s budget surplus. Chairwoman Melissa Engel, it is a long-held project. ment budget passes. The $250,000 freed up in the capital budget belief of this and former councils that people The referendum will be held Sept. 19 from 6 Hostage Negotiations would have been directed to the Board of Edu- vote “no” because they think the budget is too a.m. to 8 p.m. in the middle school gymnasium. The $30.50 million education budget, which cation to restore three teaching positions, ac- high. Voters struck down the proposed general was presented as a separate question at the ini- cording to the plan. Smith said at the time he “There shouldn’t be any confusion,” Engel government budget first in May and then again tial budget referendum in May, passed on the would use the funding to bring back a third said. in June. first try by 125 votes despite the fact that it in- grade, fifth grade and high school English teach- Council member Mark Philhower, also a The $14.95 million general government bud- cluded the reduction of eight teaching positions. ing position. Since then, Smith has reassigned Republican, emphasized the same point. get is down from $15.14 million at the first ref- Three of the affected teachers were laid off; the one kindergarten teacher to grade three in or- “We were quite clear on day one of the bud- erendum and $15.17 million in the subsequent remaining positions were left unfilled after der to mitigate the effect of the staffing reduc- get process that if the budget failed – and we round. teachers retired or were shuffled around the tions. were quite clear on education as well as gen- The proposed town operations budget now district. While the finance board knocked down eral government – there will be cuts,” Philhower comes in at $10.73 million. Representing an But some of the same voters who supported Jylkka’s proposal, they did approve a supple- said. increase of 1.11 percent over the current bud- the education budget rejected the proposed mental appropriation of $223,000 for repairs Councilor James “Pete” Brown, a Democrat, get, it did not change from the amount that failed general government budget at the first and sub- to the library roof. The move transferred the put it this way: “I’ve said this on other occa- at the last referendum. sequent referendum. Advocates for the school funds from the 2017-18 fund balance to the sions, that for all practical purposes, if a bud- The $992,206 capital and transfers budget is system have been vocal at public meetings and 2017-18 capital reserve fund. The move com- get does not pass, it’s too high.” an increase of 21.7 percent over the current on social media in saying they believe some bined with a previous vote by finance board Councilors have rebuffed the suggestion from budget. or all of an unexpected allocation of $715,415 members to pay for a public works plow truck fellow member Dean Markham to include ad- The town’s debt accounts for $3.23 million in Education Cost Sharing (ECS) funds from and a paver with cash instead of financing them. visory questions that would give officials more of the council’s budget proposal. That’s an in- the state should be applied to the education The supplemental appropriations were en- solid data with which to determine voter intent.

Andover Senior Center to Elementary School? by Sloan Brewster Moldy conditions at the old firehouse on The third- and fourth-grade wing has four “It just makes sense at this time to acknowl- the center. Palazzi has her sights on ultimately Center Street that serves as the town’s senior classrooms, three of which have classes in them edge that we will have some space that we can moving to a new community center, which she center have led to the relocation of several se- this year, Doyen said. The tentative plan is to devote to something else,” she said of the plan said she has discussed with the Long Term Plan- nior activities, most recently the weekly lun- move the classes and the health room, which is to move seniors in. “[We’re] trying our best to ning Committee. cheon program. also in that wing, for the 2019-20 year. To do make good use of the facility.” The committee is “projecting it will be 10 But the senior center may have – albeit tem- that she would make use of empty rooms in For the seniors, the move is being consid- years,” she said of the development of the cen- porarily – a new home. other areas of the school and consolidate un- ered for a different reason entirely. ter. “I’m projecting, no, it needs to be sooner.” The Board of Education Wednesday gave der-used rooms with one or two special educa- The senior center occupies the Old Firehouse In the meantime, she is looking at ways to schools Superintendent Sally Doyen the go- tion teachers with limited numbers of students. on Center Street, which is plagued with mold. optimize a potential move to the school. ahead to look into what needs to be done to the The plan also includes possibly consolidating At the Board of Selectmen meeting on Sept. 5, “I would like to see some kind of intergenera- third- and fourth-grade wing of the school to the two tech labs into one. the board gave Town Administrator Joseph tion program with the seniors [and students],” get the seniors in there. “We would be rearranging some of those Higgins permission to spend $440 to perform she told the education board. Doyen said Thursday it’s too preliminary to other functions,” Doyen said. “These are all air quality testing on the building. Board member Michael Russo suggested the estimate what the cost of the move would be. very tentative ideas that we’ll be working on The mold has been present for 80 years, seniors spend a day in the Maker Space and The idea for repurposing the wing is a prod- all through the course of the year with a goal speakers at the selectmen’s meeting said, and said the children and seniors could learn from uct of declining enrollment, Doyen told the that if we are going to make this transition it when the Fire Department still housed the build- each other. board. Enrollment has been declining for two will be next year.” ing it made various attempts to mitigate the “They would love that,” Palazzi said of the years. Doyen said she would update the board regu- mold – but to no avail. seniors. According to Doyen, by the 2020-21 school larly on her progress and once she has a spe- Cathy Palazzi, senior coordinator, attended Palazzi is also making plans to have vehicles, year, there will be 175 students spread out over cific plan for what needs to be accomplished to the school board meeting and said she thinks a including senior vans and an ambulance, that 13 to 14 classes. The 2017-18 school year saw make the move possible she will ask for final move to the school would work for seniors. are parked in the old firehouse moved to the 202 students in 15 classes. This year, there are approval to make it happen. “I’m very concerned for the seniors,” she Public Works Facility for fear they are being 191 students in 14 classes, Doyen said, with an Doyen has already taken steps to reconfigure said. “I’ve been worried for years about the damaged by the mold. additional “eight or nine” classrooms being classrooms in light of the reducing number of building but now it’s reached a peak.” “They do feel they have been contaminated,” used for special activities such as art, music and students. In June, the board gave her approval During a tour of the building last month, the Palazzi said referring to members of the fire technology. to transform a corner of the library into a Maker upstairs portion of the building had a harsh department who recommended the vehicles be There are 26 general classrooms at the Space and bring the art room to the room across mildew/mold-like odor. Down in the garage/ stored elsewhere. school. the hall. With the technology room next to the basement area the smell was much stronger and It would not be the first time a town vehicle As the numbers of students trend downward library they created what Doyen has dubbed a along the wall and on the ceiling the large was damaged from being parked in the garage. and classrooms empty, she said she was look- learning triangle. patches of mold could be clearly seen. At the selectmen’s meeting, Curt Dowling, ing at ways to make use of them. She said the With no physical changes to the structure, if Green Home Solutions of West Hartford, chief engineer of the Andover Fire Department, board attorney has already okayed the proposal the numbers of students rise again, which which will be performing the air quality test, said he recalled a 1978 fire truck the depart- to move the seniors to the school. Doyen has said she anticipates will happen in will be taking seven different air samples in- ment had purchased and said the mold ruined “It is perfectly legal and acceptable,” she said. about 10 years, all the changes can be undone side the building, Higgins said. it. “The thought [is] that maybe we could trans- and the classrooms put to use for classes once The relocation wouldn’t put the kibosh on “It was so far rotted in 12 years that we had form that space for something very useful, ac- again, she said. the search for a new, more permanent home for to scrap it,” he said. tually, for the town.” East Hampton Voters OK Purchases Using ‘Unusual’ Budget Surplus by Elizabeth Regan Voters at Monday night’s town meeting gave the town’s tax sale left the town at the end of spoke up to emphasize the importance of ap- fectly legal,” stood up at the meeting to sug- the go-ahead for the purchase of a public works the fiscal year with an “unusual” budget sur- proving all three items. gest voters address the original resolution first. paver and plow truck, as well as the repair of plus. “I’ve heard the rumors that people will vote That’s what voters expected based on the word- the community center roof, using a majority of “Rather than buy a car or a truck on credit for the library and vote the trucks down for other ing in the state-required meeting notice pub- the town’s “unusual” budget surplus. and run up the town’s credit card bill, we have reasons,” Brown said. “I know what’s out there. lished in the Aug. 31 Rivereast, according to The three items were bundled together in one this cash that we are directing toward the pur- But I really think, I really think you’re selling Carella’s analysis. resolution to fund the items with $570,000 of chase of these needed vehicles that are being yourself and the town short.” “The call of the meeting was to vote on the the 740,000 budget surplus from 2017-18. held together pretty much by duct tape,” Brown Maniscalco said after the meeting Brown was resolution as a whole,” Carella said. “I think The town is still operating according to the said. “And if you want your roads plowed this likely referring to rumors that education sup- you should call for that vote. People may want 2017-18 budget for general government, debt winter, we need these vehicles. If you want your porters planned to vote down the public works to vote on that resolution, right? Up or down. If and capital after the proposed town budget roads repaired, we need the paving box.” appropriations so that the money could be used it goes down, then I think you should accept failed twice at referendum. The $30.50 million Maniscalco said the need for the additional for education. the amendment for another vote.” education budget passed on the first try. plow truck is compounded by the fact that the The ire of the education advocates has been According to New England Association of Moderator Steve Greco asked for a show of roads in two new developments – Whispering rising over the course of a contentious budget Parliamentarian Vice President Carl Pease, of hands after a voice vote was inconclusive. There Woods and Skyline Estates – will soon be turned season. It began with the finance board mem- Maine, amendments to a pending main motion were 41 voters in favor and 32 opposed. over to the town for clearing and maintenance bers’ decision to cut $670,000 from the Board “must be disposed of in some manner” before An amendment to split the resolution into now that road construction is almost complete. of Education’s budget proposal, was exacer- members can vote on the main motion. three separate motions was made by one resi- The finance board back in July recommended bated by their refusal to direct an unexpected He noted in an email to the Rivereast that dent and seconded by another, but was never the library roof repairs be included as an addi- state education grant to the schools, and grew members of the town meeting also could have voted on. tional appropriation – instead of as a line item even stronger with their subsequent rejection used a specific motion tailored to this kind of Town Manager Michael Maniscalco said the in the proposed budget – after Maniscalco said of the finance director’s plan to reinstate three situation. Known in parliamentary parlance as plow truck, paver and library roof repairs were paying for repairs out of the surplus would be teaching positions out of the budget surplus (see “division of the question,” the move splits a bundled into one vote because they were all more expedient than waiting for voters to ap- related budget story on page 15). single motion into parts for separate votes. capital projects, they came from the same fund- prove a town budget. Rules of Engagement Carella on Wednesday disputed the role of ing source and there was an immediate need Numerous voters at Tuesday’s town meeting The amendment raised by resident Mary Ann Robert’s Rules in town meetings. He reiterated for all three of them. objected to the “off-budget appropriations” as Dostaler and seconded by Jim Monahan would that a town meeting “must follow what’s pub- The surplus funds will be transferred from an example of bad budgeting lacking in trans- have split the resolution into three separate lished in the paper.” the fund balance – known as the rainy day fund parency. They argued that approving each year’s votes. “It’s not a motion; it’s a town meeting reso- – to the budget for capital projects. Finance budget in an all-day referendum by a machine Robert’s Rules of Order, the definitive text lution. That’s what gets voted on first,” he said. Director Jeff Jylkka said Wednesday that the vote is fairer than making expensive decisions on parliamentary procedure, states meeting He said state statute allows towns to adopt move leaves the full fund balance at 12.3 per- throughout the year at town meetings many resi- participants may amend sections of a resolu- what he described as “whatever rules they want cent of the current operating budget, which he dents are unable to attend. tion by a majority vote of the membership. If to follow.” has described as a healthy savings in the eyes Resident and former Board of Education passed, the amendment supersedes the original When asked by the Rivereast what rules the of municipal credit rating agencies. member Tania Sones called the maneuver “in- motion. If it fails, the original motion remains town uses to conduct its meetings, he was not The plow truck and paver were originally set appropriate.” unchanged. immediately able to furnish an answer. to be leased as part of the proposed 2018-19 “This whole process in itself – purchasing State statute specifies that all questions aris- Steve Greco, the town meeting moderator, town government budget, but Board of Finance vehicles or doing anything in cash – isn’t ap- ing in town meetings “shall be decided in ac- said Wednesday that he ran the meeting accord- members decided they wanted to pay cash in- propriate,” Sones said. “We’re dipping into our cordance with standard parliamentary practice” ing to Robert’s Rules. stead. savings to be able to accomplish this. We should unless the town has established its own rules “The town has always operated under Finance Board Chairman Richard Brown, adjust the mill rate accordingly every year to for conducting the meeting. Robert’s Rules,” Greco said. after repeated questions were raised about the include these items instead of doing it with 70 Town Attorney Richard D. Carella, while finance board’s motivation in buying the items people in the room.” acknowledging the amended motion was “per- outright, responded to say the proceeds from Town Council member James “Pete” Brown

Marlborough Bodybuilder Makes Opera Debut by Allison Lazur a standing ovation, she said. Resident Armen Kevorkian is no stranger to From there, Kevorkian continued perform- the stage. With two amateur bodybuilding com- ing by becoming involved with a country band, petitions under her belt, she now moves to mak- as well as a group called The Glamour Girls. ing her opera debut next month. She eventually moved to participating in the “For me it’s really important to show no audition circuit this year. matter how old you are, you don’t stop dream- She explained as a kid she had some jazz ing – you don’t stop reaching for the stars,” and tap dance training, but never any formal Kevorkian said. vocal training, so Kevorkian began taking voice After taking home three first place titles in lessons at Summit Studios in Manchester as a the All Natural Bodybuilding Competition in first step towards landing a role. 1998 and two second place titles in the Inter- These lessons quickly turned into prepara- national Natural Bodybuilding and Fitness Fed- tions for a slew of upcoming auditions. eration Northeast Classic in 2012, Kevorkian In addition to seeking out formal vocal train- was faced with a shoulder injury that forced ing, Kevorkian also said she went as far as build- her to stop competing. ing herself a tap dancing floor, bought tap shoes “It’s been hard for me not to lift because I and started watching YouTube videos on the love bodybuilding and weight lifting and feel- dance style so she could audition for roles that ing fit,” she said. “I think I just needed another involved tap dancing. passion to turn to and I’ve always loved musi- Between April and May, Kevorkian took cal theatre and loved singing.” about eight auditions for shows around the state, At the beginning of the year, Kevorkian said such as Leader of the Pack and Young Franken- she decided to get into musical theatre. stein, before landing a principal role in the Gil- Approximately nine years ago Kevorkian bert and Sullivan opera The Mikado, put on by dabbled in group singing while working at Trav- the Connecticut Gilbert and Sullivan Society. Amateur body builder Armen Kevorkian is giving opera a shot after injuring her elers Insurance – a company with a choral group The auditions were a combination of danc- shoulder after her last competition in 2012, the International Natural Bodybuilding that puts on a Christmas performance annually ing, singing and reciting lines, she explained. – but group and solo singing are much differ- “I went to the audition for The Mikado and and Fitness Federation (INBF) Northeast Classic. Kevorkian took home two second ent than musical theatre, she explained. it was just so intimidating,” she said, adding, place titles at the amateur competition and will take the stage next month in the After landing a solo role in the company’s “Everyone’s voices were just incredible.” Gilbert and Sullivan opera, The Mikado. Christmas show nine years ago, Kevorkian While Kevorkian said she didn’t expect to learned she would be performing with the group win the part, “it’s nice to be validated.” if you can get the story,” she said. show and I feel so lucky to perform with so and singing her solo number at the Bushnell – “No one ever told me I had a good singing Kevorkian said that, like bodybuilding, per- many talented people too.” a theatre that seats approximately 3,700 people. voice or gave me encouragement,” she said. forming on stage comes down to confidence. At 57 years old, Kevorkian added “I’m still Kevorkian said she was riddled with stage Kevorkian will be playing the role of Katisha “I knew I had worked as hard as I possibly young enough that I want to make these last fright, but was determined to overcome her fear for the matinee performance on Oct. 13. could to sculpt my body to be the way I wanted however many years the best that they can be.” by forcing herself to get in front of people to Kevorkian explained the character Katisha it to be,” she said. “I had that confidence that I * * * sing as often as she could. as a “mean, big, bully,” who is manipulative in did all that I possibly could to be successful – Performances of The Mikado are scheduled “I was terrified,” she said. “I had three weeks order to get what she wants near the end of the same with preparing for The Mikado.” for Saturday, Oct. 13, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to overcome this fear, so I went to karaoke ev- first act and throughout the second act of the Kevorkian said she listens to the songs she and Sunday, Oct. 14, at 2 p.m., at the Connecti- ery single night of the week for three weeks.” show. has to learn in her car, while on her elliptical cut Gilbert and Sullivan Society, located at 256 After singing at venues such as Winchester The Mikado is a comedic opera, Kevorkian and even goes to bed with them in her head. Kelsey Hill Rd, Deep River. Café in Portland and the now-defunct Marco said. Ccharacteristic of Gilbert and Sullivan op- “I got knocked down from the bodybuilding Anyone interested in seeing the show can Polo Restaurant in East Hartford, Kevorkian eras, the plot is complicated and quirky. but I got back up and I put my energy into the find ticket information at ctgands.org/tickets. nailed her solo role at the Bushnell and received “[Gilbert and Sullivan] operas are so funny, singing,” she said. “I’m so excited to be in this Marlborough Martial Arts Studio to Close After Nearly 30 Years by Allison Lazur chase a pair of red sparring gloves for their next school – outside of academic training,” he said. Frank Corbo, owner and instructor of session so she could mimic his hand motions. Corbo said that the martial arts have also been Marlborough Martial Arts, is closing his doors At that session, Corbo said he continued to chal- used as a tool for physically handicapped chil- at the end of the month, after 27 years in busi- lenge her to excel in her training. She was be- dren to achieve personal life goals, adding ness. Corbo – who started the martial arts stu- coming frustrated, but instead of giving up, she “that’s where martial arts make a big difference dio in 1991 – said he is retiring and looking looked at him and said, “I’ll try harder to do in society.” forward to the next new adventure. better.” “Not all parents bring their children to a Corbo’s love for the martial arts stems back Corbo added, “She had every reason to say, karate school to earn a black belt,” he said. to his childhood. ‘This is the best I can do given what I’ve been Corbo reminisced about a situation where His father, who served in the Coast Guard given,’ but yet she stopped and said, ‘No, I’ll parents had brought their son to his martial arts and was also a self-defense instructor there, try harder to do better.”’ school after a doctor had low expectations for introduced martial arts to Corbo at the age of Corbo said those words made him pause and the boy’s physical movement and strength. five, beginning with boxing. reflect on the life lesson this young girl had Through martial arts training, Corbo said he Corbo later entered into the Marine Corps, just taught him. was able to help the child do two things at once returning from the service in 1975 and was Since that encounter, Corbo said he tries to and enhance coordination – something the doc- “looking for something to do” so got back into use variations of that lesson. tor did not think was possible. He said the par- practicing martial arts, he said. He said he stresses to his students, “Don’t ents returned to the doctor, pleased, to show However, the opening of Marlborough Mar- be afraid to show the world how great you are what their son had been able to accomplish tial Arts didn’t happen until Corbo was laid off [and] sometimes people will hold you back through the martial arts. by Pratt and Whitney after working for them because they’re afraid of what you can accom- The everlasting impact Corbo has had on his for about 15 years. At that time, he decided to plish.” students is what will make retiring difficult, he make a career change and open the gym in Over the years, the offerings of Marlborough said. Marlborough – in a location close to his home Martial Arts have changed based on what was When Corbo informed his students he would in town. popular at the time, Corbo said. be retiring he said the response was shock from Over the last nearly three decades, Corbo has “We just really offered a full experience in most, while some students even cried, but said taught and learned from thousands of students, martial arts training and that’s what I wanted ultimately all of his students are happy for him. children and adults alike, some of which have out of the school,” Corbo said. “As a martial arts instructor you develop a been involved with the gym for about 13 years But over the years, Corbo expanded the busi- personal relationship with your clients,” he said. and “all have different stories,” he explained. ness’ repertoire, adding in offerings in cardio “As I pack things up and look at old photo al- A large portion of Corbo’s classes are dedi- fitness program, mixed martial arts and tai chi. bums, it’s [been] difficult because you’ve de- cated to children, including those with special “I think one of the reasons why we stayed veloped a relationship with these people over After nearly three decades in business, needs. successful is we tried to stay just a little bit time.” One specific interaction with a 7- or 8-year- ahead of the curve,” he said. Moving forward, Corbo said he plans to take Frank Corbo will close the doors of old student resonated with Corbo throughout The clientele has also changed to be predomi- dancing lessons with his wife, travel and serve Marlborough Martial Arts to retire after his career. nantly children, while during the first few years as the “occasional laborer” for her painting teaching thousands of students since Corbo explained that a young girl he taught in business there were more adults and even a business, while continuing to train with mar- 1991. was visually impaired. She was able to see fairly teenage class, he explained. tial arts friends. well peripherally, but her forward vision was With this shift, Corbo said the focus of “It’s been a great journey,” he said, adding, day and host a gathering the following Sunday, poor. While working with her in class, he dis- classes is geared more towards “student devel- “I’m so glad that people allowed me to take it Sept. 23 from noon to 3 p.m. where former and covered she was following his movements be- opment.” [and] and be a part of it with them.” current students can reminisce, take photos and cause he was dressed in red – a color she could “It may become a child’s first social activity * * * share stories. partially see, he explained. where they’re with other people outside of Corbo will teach his last class next Thurs- Corbo said he subsequently decided to pur-

EH Marlborough Domestic East Hampton Police News 8/24: Robert Filippone, 71 of 54 Waterview Sherland Ave., New Haven, was taken into cus- Circle, was issued a summons for misuse of tody pursuant to an active warrant and charged Incident Leads to Injury plates, operating a motor vehicle under suspen- with fourth-degree larceny, police said. by Allison Lazur sion and operating an unregistered and unin- 8/30: Richard Caron, 77, of 5 Mark Twain A local man with a possibly violent past affidavit states. sured motor vehicle, East Hampton Police said. Dr., was issued a summons for operating a was arrested on a host of charges last week The woman and Saltonstall proceeded to 8/25: Robert Wiggins, 65, of 22 Flood Rd., motor vehicle without minimum insurance and following a domestic dispute during which he argue for four hours, the affidavit stated. Dur- Marlborough, was arrested and charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, police allegedly tried to light a woman’s shirt on fire. ing that time, the alleged victim told police DUI and drinking while driving, police said. said. State Police said Thomas H. Saltonstall, 45, Saltonstall “became physical with her, drag- 8/28: Mckenzie Caso, 21, of 42 Keirstead From Aug. 27-Sept. 2, officers responded to of 51 Hebron Rd., was arrested and charged ging her around by her hair and attempting to Circle, Marlborough, was arrested and charged 11 medical calls, two motor vehicle crashes and with risk of injury to child, disorderly con- become confrontational with [her son],” the with DUI and failure to drive right, police said. 13 alarms, and made 32 traffic stops, police said. duct, third-degree assault, second-degree affidavit states. 8/30: William Marchinkoski, 48, of 89 threatening and second-degree unlawful re- The affidavit also states Saltonstall at- straint. tempted to light the woman’s shirt on fire, as Although Saltonstall’s prior arrest history well as physically block the exits so she and wasn’t included in the arrest warrant affida- her son could not leave. vit, and state police would neither confirm nor At the conclusion of the four-hour argu- Marlborough Crash Victims Identified deny he’s the same man, court records show a ment, the affidavit explains, the woman and State Police have released the details of a subsequently struck the Volvo and the Nissan Thomas H. Saltonstall with the same date of her son left the house. Saltonstall approached four-car crash that occurred on Route 2 last Sentra before coming to a final rest on its roof birth was convicted of murder in July 1994 the son and threatened to kill him, the affida- Wednesday, Sept. 5. in the middle of Route 2, police said. and sentenced to 32 years in prison. He also vit states. Police said roadwork led to the four-car Caldrello was transported by Marlborough had two convictions of first-degree robbery According to the affidavit, the trooper who crash, which happened just before 10:30 a.m. Fire Department to Hartford Hospital with with a deadly weapon the same month. obtained the statement observed several vis- According to police, a Toyota Camry, suspected minor injuries and her passenger According to the archives of the Hartford ible bruises on the woman’s arms, as well as driven by Sandra Lee Caldrello, 89, of P.O. Phyllis B. Motin, 76, of 28 Wiemes Ct., Courant, Saltonstall admitted killing a trans- injuries to the back of her head, back, shins, Box 487, Quaker Hill, was stopped in the right Waterford, was also transported with sus- sexual friend in 1993, and hiding the body in shoulders and forearms. lane of Route 2 west, near the onramp of exit pected minor injuries by American Medical the trunk of a car. The Courant reported The woman also provided the trooper with 12, due to highway maintenance. Response (AMR) to Hartford Hospital, police Satonstall maintained the death, which was by a Facebook live video, which depicted a ver- A Volvo driven by Douglas H. Warren, 64, said. strangulation, was accidental. bal argument and Saltonstall putting his hand of 15 Matarese Hills, Westerly, R.I., was Warren was transported by East Hampton State Department of Correction spokesman “within inches” of the victim’s son’s face, the stopped in front of the Camry . Fire Department to Marlborough Clinic, said Saltonstall served 21 years of the 32-year affidavit states. A Nissan Sentra driven by Brian C. Medeiros was transported by Glastonbury sentence and was released in March 2015. The woman told the trooper Saltonstall of- Medeiros, 34, of 191 S.Whittlesey Ave., Ambulance to St. Francis Hospital and On Sept. 1, state police said a woman filed ten threatens her son and attempts to provoke Wallingford, was next to the Camry in the left Bennett-Shinkovich was transported to a report of a domestic issue that occurred be- a fight, and that both her son and Saltonstall lane Marlborough Clinic by Colchester Fire De- tween her, her son and Saltonstall on Aug. 29, have a history of physical confrontations, the A BMW driven by Douglas W. Bennett- partment, all with non-life-threatening inju- according to the arrest warrant affidavit. affidavit states. Shinkovich, 31, of 389 Lebanon Ave., ries, police said. The affidavit states that the alleged victim The trooper contacted Saltonstall regarding Colchester, was traveling west behind the Bennett-Shinkovich was issued an infrac- arrived home to find Saltonstall having a dis- this incident and requested a statement. How- Camry and struck the vehicle from behind, tion for following too close, police said. cussion with her son. She later discovered that ever, Saltonstall told the trooper he did not catapulting the Camry into the air. The Camry discussion involved her son’s martial arts in- wish to provide any details and would be con- structor, who Saltonstall allegedly threatened tacting his lawyer, the affidavit states. to kill. Saltonstall is currently free on a $10,000 The conversation escalated after the woman bond, and is next due in court Oct. 2. Colchester Police News asked Saltonstall why he was acting upset, the 9/2: State Police said Brian E. Forgette, 37, of 303 Mohegan Park Rd., Norwich, was ar- rested and charged with second-degree crimi- Portland Police News nal trespassing, interfering with officer/resist- 9/2: Briana Alvarez, 25, of 60 Lovely St., ing and disorderly conduct. Farmington, was charged with operating under 9/7: State Police said Alexandra L. Stewart, suspension and failure to obey traffic control 25, of 33 Tilley St., New London, was arrested signal, Portland Police said. and charged with second-degree failure to ap- 9/7: Nicole Brean, 31, of 625 Main St., was pear after turning herself in pursuant to an ac- charged with first-degree failure to appear, po- tive arrest warrant. lice said. Marlborough Four-Vehicle From the Editor’s Desk Collison, Four Injured A four-car collision occurred Wednesday were transported to Hartford Hospital and Observations & Ruminations morning on Route 2 near the exit 12 on-ramp Middlesex Clinic by ambulances from by Mike Thompson at approximately 10:29 a.m., according to Fire Glastonbury, Colchester, East Hampton and Football is back – which means it’s time ferent these days than they did in seasons past, Chief Kevin Asklar. Marlborough. A second ambulance from for the start of what’s become a trend these it might not be because of concussions or pro- Asklar explained that cars were stopped for Colchester responded to an additional past few years: headlines touting the game’s tests or politics or anything like that; it may roadway construction. However, a vehicle Marlborough medical call while the fire de- declining ratings. simply be that people’s viewing habits are traveling westbound did not stop, resulting in partment was dispatched, Asklar said. A couple of things wrong with this sce- changing. Literally everything else on televi- a collision. State Police would not provide any addi- nario: while the ratings for NBC’s season sion has had to deal with this reality already; Asklar said four individuals with injuries tional details by press time Thursday. opener of Sunday Night Football this past football, welcome to the party. Sunday were indeed down, they were down * * * 9 percent over last year’s season opener, Speaking of Miss America – which I did, which isn’t huge – especially when you con- several paragraphs ago – congratulations to Marlborough Two-Vehicle sider the ratings for that particular game were Hebron’s own Bridget Oei! Bridget, you may up 5 percent from the 2016 opener. So we’re recall, won Miss Connecticut in June. Well, Collision, One with Possible Injuries not talking massive year-to-year drops here. this past Sunday, she competed against 50 State Police said a vehicle was rear-ended rear-ended by a Sierra GMC truck driven by And let’s not forget the game faced competi- other women (the number includes the win- on Route 2, leaving one man with possible Thomas Degnan, 51, of 10 Hamburg Rd., East tion from the Miss America broadcast on ABC ner from the District of Columbia) in the Miss injuries. Haddam, police said. and the still-bafflingly-popular Big Brother America…..well, they’re not calling it a pag- At approximately 2:09 p.m. on Sept.7, a Degnan complained of chest pain and was on CBS. eant anymore. The Miss America competition. Coca-Cola freight truck driven by Brian transported by Marlborough Fire Department But there’s another, more interesting, rea- Bridget won first runner-up! Very impressive! Hellyar, 59, of 291 Garden St., Wethersfield, to Middlesex Hospital and issued an infrac- son why you should be skeptical next time I admit I didn’t see the broadcast, but the was traveling east on Route 2 in the right lane tion for following too close, police said. someone tells you “football’s ratings are way Washington Post had a review of it – and said near the exit 13 on-ramp when the truck was down!” While the ratings for NBC’s Sunday that Bridget brought down the house during night game, as well as ESPN’s Monday Night the talent portion of the competition. Bridget Football openers on Monday, were indeed performed some Irish step-dancing and then down over last year, the ratings for the CBS did a moonwalk! and Fox broadcasts in the afternoon on Sun- It would’ve been simply awesome if Colchester Head-On Collision Injures One day were up – in some cases, by a lot. CBS Bridget had won the entire competition, but State Police said failure to grant the right of 301 Jameson Ct., Seven Fields, Pa., at- averaged a 29 percent increase in ratings for first runner-up is huge! It’s an amazing of way is to blame for a two-vehicle crash on tempted to turn into the CVS parking lot in its Sunday afternoon broadcasts. achievement, and she has so much to be proud Sept. 4. front of the Nissan Rogue, causing a collision. I read an intriguing guess as to why Fox of. She also gets $25,000 in scholarship At approximately 10:01 p.m. a Nissan Sanders was transported to Marlborough and CBS saw increases while NBC and ESPN money. Rogue, driven by Theresa Sanders, 42, of 6 Hospital by the Colchester Fire Department were down: Fox and CBS air regional games; Congratulations, Bridget! Silver Dr., Middletown, was traveling north- with minor injuries, police said, and Torpy was the games feature hometown teams, and the * * * bound on South Main Street near the CVS, found at fault and issued an infraction for fail- teams you get as a viewer can vary depend- There seem to be more and more bear when a Dodge driven by Alaya P. Torpy, 23, ure to grant right of way. ing on where you live. NBC and ESPN, mean- sightings these days. And they’re not just near while, aired national games. The teams that wooded areas or out in the country, either. played were the same, whether you lived in Heck, just recently I saw on the news one spot- Maine or California. ted wandering around the Buckland shopping The theory I saw speculated that people area in Manchester – an area that’s hardly Hebron Two-Vehicle Collision, just are more interested in seeing their home- woodsy. town teams. I’m a bigger baseball fan than I So, with that in mind, the town of Portland Two with Possible Injuries am a football one, and I can certainly relate this week passed along some tips for what to State Police said that, while they directing rear-ended by a Subaru Impreza driven by to that. The games are simply more captivat- do if you see a bear. While the tips came from Hebron Fair traffic, a collision occurred in the Susan Ann Slivinsky, 54, of 37 Hunter Rd., ing when you’re a fan of one of the particular Portland, I’d say anyone could use them – as Hebron fairgrounds area. Tolland. teams. Unless it’s playoff time, I’m not all it’s becoming increasingly apparent bears can At approximately 10:28 p.m. Friday, Sept. Hutchins and her 9-year-old male passen- that interested in seeing, say, Kansas City take turn up just about anywhere. 7, April Hutchins, 36, of 29 Chestnut Ct., ger were both transported to Middlesex Hos- on Detroit. If you see a bear, the town said: Cromwell, was traveling south on Route 85 pital by Hebron Emergency Services with I wouldn’t be surprised if, by and large, Observe it from a distance; advertise your in a Nissan Sentra when she was directed to possible injuries, police said. folks across the country felt the same way I presence by shouting and waving your arms stop for fair traffic by police. The Sentra Slivinsky was found at fault and issued an do. Between cable options, and streaming or walk slowly away; never attempt to feed or stopped at the intersection of Route 85 and infraction for following too close. options, there are more alternatives to watch attract bears; and report bear sightings to the Gate B of the Hebron fairgrounds and was than ever before – so I can’t blame a Patriots Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011. fan for not clearing the calendar for Bears- * * * Packers. See you next week. Marlborough Vehicle Overturns, If the ratings NFL games fetch look dif- One Woman Injured State Police said an overcorrection to stay past exit 15 when the vehicle failed to stay in in the right lane on Route 2 left one woman the lane. Wolfe overcorrected and the vehicle with minor hand injuries. overturned, police said. At approximately 2:18 p.m. on Sept. 4, a Wolfe was transported to Marlborough Mercury Mountaineer driven by Ellen N. Clinic by the Marlborough Fire Department Wolfe, 19, of 140 Woodside St., Manchester, for minor injury to hands. was traveling in the right lane on Route 2, just

Three Arrested in Marlborough Burglary State Police said an active burglary on ficer, the 14-year-old male suspect was located Hodge Road led to the arrest of a 21-year-old and arrested. man, a14-year-old juvenile and a 16-year-old East Hampton Police, using a dog, located juvenile. the vehicle reported to be used during the bur- At approximately 2:02 p.m. on Sept. 4, glary and arrested Cody J. Foran, 21, of 6 state troopers, Marlborough Police and East Sherwood Ln., and charged him with risk of Hampton Police responded to several reports injury to a child, third-degree burglary and of an active burglary in progress on Hodge conspiracy, state police said. Road. After an investigation, state police said a16- State Police said after an extensive search, year-old juvenile was also identified and ar- including a foot pursuit by a Marlborough of- rested in connection with the incident.

Hebron Police News 9/8: State Police said Edward D. Garrison, 49, of 4 Burnham St., Enfield, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and third-de- gree assault. Obituaries Andover Middle Haddam Portland Portland Virginia Holcombe Wanagel Julia Ann Blauvelt Susan Martha DeRing Deirdre Sheil Bray Virginia Holcombe Julia Ann (Hawley) Blauvelt passed into eter- Susan Martha (Brown) DeRing, 74, of Port- Deirdre Sheil Bray, a vibrant woman of remark- Wanagel, 91, of Ando- nal rest and peace Thursday, Sept. 6. land, died Sunday, Sept. 9, at The Hospital of able grace, strength, and compassion, died Sept. ver, passed away peace- Known to all as Julie, she was born in Monroe, Central Connecticut surrounded by her family. She 5, after a brief illness. Born in Hartford Nov. 29, fully Friday, Aug. 24, at Connecticut on Saturday, July 6, 1929. Her de- was born in Granville, N.Y., to Edith (Lorenz) 1949, she was the daughter of the late John R. Manatee Memorial lighted parents were Bradford William Hawley and Raymond Brown. and Beverly Sheil. Hospital in Bradenton, and Fanny Henrietta (Schmidt) Hawley. She was a registered nurse and graduated from A graduate of Mercy High School and South- Fla. Born Oct. 15, 1926 Julie attended Monroe Elementary School, St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Amsterdam, N.Y. ern Connecticut State College, Deirdre went on in Florida, she was pre- Whittier Junior High School and Bassick High She has been a resident of Portland for 48 years. to earn a master’s degree in speech pathology at deceased by her hus- School in Bridgeport, graduating in June 1947. Sue co-founded Young Horizon’s Day Care Cen- Florida State University. She began her career as band, Robert Wanagel As a young girl, Julie had a dog named Skippy ter in Higganum in 1982 and dedicated her life to a speech pathologist in the Maryland School Sys- of Andover, and by her whom she loved dearly and Skippy loved cows. providing a nurturing and loving environment for tem and also worked at several health care facili- parents, Robert Luther Julie enjoyed acting in many school plays. This so many children. In addition to her passion for ties. After returning to Connecticut, she worked Holcombe and Elsie enjoyment partially shaped her future career. Af- early childhood development, Sue was always for Middlesex Hospital Home Care and for the Miller. ter graduating from Bassick, Julie attended The helping those in need and those less fortunate. past 11 years at Gaylord Hospital, until she re- Ginny had fond memories of her early years in Teachers’ College of Connecticut in New Britain You would always find Sue preparing home- luctantly retired due to Parkinson’s disease. Fol- Florida then moving to Connecticut, graduating (now known as Central Connecticut State Uni- cooked meals for her children and neighbors, bak- lowing her retirement she became a warrior in from Hall High School in West Hartford. She was versity), graduating in 1951 with a degree in el- ing for her church and other charities and assem- her fight against this disease, joining Rock Steady a stay-at-home mom with her two children ementary education. Julie’s first teaching position bling care packages for the troops overseas. Boxing Gym, in her efforts to remain active and through their elementary school years. She was at Charter Oak School in West Hartford. Sue is survived by her daughters, Kathleen diminish the effects of Parkinson’s. worked for the Optical Style Bar in Manchester On July 5, 1952, Julie married Richard I. (Dick) DeRing and Kristine Howard of Portland; her Deirdre’s profession as a speech pathologist and then onto Pratt and Whitney. Once retired, Blauvelt and they settled in Middle Haddam. In sons, Lt. Col. Tommy DeRing (Jessica) of Port- gave her great happiness and fulfillment. She cher- she enjoyed her social outings with the Andover 1953, she took a new teaching position at Central land and Joseph DeRing (Maureen) of Belleair, ished the time spent working with her colleagues, Seniors, part of the Young at Heart Club, being a School in Portland. In 1954, Julie moved to the Fla. Sue lived for her grandchildren. They were her patients and their families. She also took tre- church deacon and various volunteer positions in old Gildersleeve School in Portland as teaching truly the lights of her life: Ryan, Maryssa, Bran- mendous joy in music, singing in the choir at St. and around Andover. principal and second grade teacher. 1960 saw a don, Emily, Gracie, Faith and JJ. She is also sur- Mary Church. She was a voracious reader, a bird Ginny leaves her two sons, Walter Montie of move to the Hebron Avenue School in vived by her brother, David Brown of Little River, lover, and an avid gardener with a deep apprecia- Andover, Robert Montie and wife Charlyn Montie Glastonbury to teach kindergarten. A 1963 career S.C., and several nieces and nephews. tion for nature. of East Haddam; her three grandchildren, Robert pause to raise her younger son, Peter, ended in She was predeceased by her brother James Deirdre loved to talk sports (to anyone), espe- Montie and wife Erica of Colchester, Stephen 1969 when both Julie and Peter returned to el- Brown and her former husband Philip DeRing. cially about her favorites: FSU Seminoles, Bos- Montie of Rockville, Jennifer Bentley and hus- ementary school. Julie continued teaching first The funeral will be held today, Sept. 14, at 8 ton Red Sox, Green Bay Packers, Golden State band Blake of Chaplin; great-grandchildren, grade at the Valley View School in Portland until a.m., from the Portland Memorial Funeral Home, Warriors, Providence Friars, and UConn Women Stephenie Montie, Robert Montie, Nicholas her retirement in 1995. 231 Main St., Portland, followed by a Mass of Huskies. Above all, her world revolved around Montie, Pierce Montie, Mary Montie, Brianna Many children who passed through her classes Christian Burial in St. Mary Church, Portland, at her family, especially her husband of 43 years, Bentley; her half-sister, Debra Holcombe Agoos; remember being in a play because she gave one 10 a.m. Burial will be at a later date in Granville, her son and daughter-in-law, and her precious and extended family of nieces and nephews. every year she taught. Peter Pan, Katie No-Pock- N.Y. Friends may call at the funeral home today grandchildren. Mom, you will always be with us in the les- ets and other plays brought many good laughs from 8-9:30 a.m. Deirdre was a beacon of love who always sons you gave, the life you shared and the love over the years. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial con- reached out to others. Her personal kindness and you showed. All our memories of you shall bring In retirement and as a longtime member of Trin- tributions in the name of Susan DeRing to St. ever-generous spirit touched many lives. She was us comfort and peace. You shall rest in our hearts ity Episcopal Church of Portland, Julie found Mary’s Church of Portland, Birthright, The Port- a champion of human rights and human dignity. forever. fulfillment with the Women’s Guild of the church land American Legion, or St. Vincent DePaul/ As an advocate for those who struggle with ad- Burial shall be held at the Fairview Cemetery and spent many hours volunteering at the Thrift Amazing Grace Food Pantry. diction, she volunteered her time with Families in West Hartford with her immediate family. Shop along with her friends. Anonymous, Portland Chapter. She had a deep Julie leaves two sons, Richard H. Blauvelt and and abiding faith from which she drew her his fiancée, June Goguen, of Hinsdale, N.H., and Marlborough strength. Portland Peter T. Blauvelt and his wife, Pamela, of Newport, Eleanor Mildred Davis She leaves behind her beloved soulmate and Anne F. Kvietkauskas R.I.; three grandchildren, Emma and Jillian of Bos- Eleanor Mildred husband, Mel L. Bray; her son, Keith and daugh- ton, Mass., and Christopher of East Hampton. ter-in-law, Lyra; her granddaughters, Areia, Al- Anne F. Kviet- Davis, 95, of Marlbor- Julie was predeceased by her daughter, Jill ough, formerly of Long exia and Savanna Rose. She also leaves her sib- kauskas, 94, of Port- Anne, in July of 1974 and by her husband, Dick, Island, N.Y., widow of lings, Keavy (Ralph) Peterson, Maura Sheil- land, passed away Sun- in July of 2011. the late Raymond Davis, Hughes, Michael (Natalie) Sheil and Jay (Wendy) day, Sept. 9, at Portland Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. Sheil and nephews, Evan, Kurt, Ryan, Tyler, Neal, Care & Rehabilitation. passed away peacefully 15, at 11 a.m., in the Trinity Episcopal Church, Monday, Sept. 3, at the Ian, and niece, Christina, all of whom she adored. She was the loving wife 345 Main St., Portland. Burial will be in the fam- She took great joy in her great nephews and of the late Adolph F. Marlborough Health ily plot in the Swedish Cemetery, Portland. and Rehab Center. Born nieces, Elliott, Noah, Hayden, Evan Boyd, Kvietkauskas, to whom Friends may call at the Portland Memorial Fu- Jan. 16, 1923, in Brook- Keegan, Cecelia, and Gabby, and a host of won- she had been married for neral Home, 231 Main St., Portland, on Friday, lyn, N.Y., she was the derful cousins and friends. 62 years. Born in Provi- Sept. 14, from 5-7 p.m. Her stepdaughter Virginia Bray Holmberg pre- dence, R.I., July 24, daughter of the late Edward and Marie (Palace) Schelski. deceased her. 1924, daughter of the Deirdre, you will always be missed, you will late Annie (Flynn) East Hampton Mrs. Davis had worked as a secretary, owned two businesses and was an office administrator always be remembered, you will always be loved. Guckian and Patrick The funeral was held Tuesday, Sept. 11, from Guckian, she had been a resident of Portland for Anna Hyde Vaillancourt for many years before her retirement. After mov- Anna Hyde Vaillancourt, 92, of Wakefield, R.I., ing to Marlborough, she attended both the the Portland Memorial Funeral Home, 231 Main over 64 years. St., Portland, followed by a Mass of Christian Prior to her retirement she worked at Middlesex passed away Saturday. She was the wife of the Marlborough Congregational Church as well as late Albert Vaillancourt. the senior center. Eleanor was an avid quilter and Burial in St. Mary Church, Portland. Burial was Hospital in the volunteer services department. in the family plot in Indian Hill Cemetery, After she retired she volunteered many years at Born in Middletown, she was a daughter of the was most notably known for her “crazy quilts.” late Thomas and Margaret (Cavanaugh) Hyde. She leaves her four children, Keith Ripka, Middletown. Friends called at the funeral home Middlesex Hospital. She enjoyed travel with her Monday, Sept. 10. husband and traveled extensively, visiting the Far She was originally a resident of East Hampton, Valerie Schaus and her husband Stephen of and more recently a resident of the Peace Dale Charlestown, R.I., Clyde Ripka and his wife In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be East, Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand and all over made to: The Church of St. Mary Renovation Europe. House in Wakefield, R.I. Kristin of Holmes, N.Y., and Audrey Negron and She is survived by three stepchildren, Dianne her husband Stephen of Brooklyn, N.Y.; 10 grand- Fund, 45 Freestone Ave., Portland, CT 06480 or She is survived by her sons, Robert and his to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Donation Pro- wife Teresa of Carlisle, Mass., Dennis and his wife McHugh of Wakefield, Claire Whitty of West children; and three great grandchildren. Yarmouth, Mass., and Robert Vaillancourt of Care of private arrangements has been entrusted cessing, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741- Laura of Hebron, Gary and his wife Francine of 501. Portland, and daughter Julia Ahearn and her hus- Burlington, Mass.; two grandchildren, Kathleen to the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home of band Brian of Killingworth; seven grandchildren, Schneider and Christopher McHugh; and five Colchester. For online condolences, visit John and Michael Ahearn, Peter Kvietkausakas, great-grandchildren, Sophia and Sylvia Schneider, auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com. Portland Callie and Scott Yorker, Annie O’Malley and John Samuel, Elizabeth and Jack McHugh; as well as Pauler. many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of Susan Sweeney She was predeceased by a brother, Francis the late Margaret Kenny, Mary Fox, and Yvonne Colchester Susan (Reinhardt) Guckian, and sisters, Margaret Guckian, Rita Cozzi. Debra A. Lewis Sweeney, 77, of San Di- Egan and Catherine Finch. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be cel- ego, Calif., formerly of Debra A. Lewis, 62, of Colchester, died The family wishes to express gratitude to her ebrated in East Hampton, Connecticut. Portland, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 22, at Harrington Court Tran- caregiver, Marina. We cannot say enough about For an online guestbook and condolences, visit Wednesday, Aug. 29. sitional Health Care, after a long battle with ill- the loving care she gave our mother. Also, the averystortifuneralhome.com. She was born Sept. 12, ness. Debra was born March 30, 1956. kindness, support, and compassion from the staff 1940, in Bridgeport, to She was one of three children of Loretta M. at Portland Care and Rehabilitation. the late George and (Denton) Lewis of Colchester and the late Gor- The funeral was held Thursday, Sept. 13, in Lillian Reinhardt. don W. Lewis. Debra was raised in Colchester the Portland Memorial Funeral Home, 231 Main Susan lived most of and attended Bacon Academy. St., Portland. Burial was in the State Veterans her life in Portland. She Besides her mother, Debra leaves behind her Cemetery, Middletown. Friends called at the fu- and her husband moved son Leonard Nelson Jr. and Tammy Lee of neral home Thursday morning, before the service. to Texas, New York, Colchester, and her son Andrew and daughter-in- In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to back to Portland, then law Lorraine Nelson of Manchester; six grand- the Alzheimer’s Association, 2911 Dixwell Ave., retiring to San Diego. She was a member of Zion children, David, Dalton, Deryk, Mariah, Krista, Suite 104, Hamden, CT 06618. Lutheran church in Portland. She worked as a Cole; great-granddaughter Skylar; her sister, medical secretary at various locations through- Margaret Strickland of East Hartford; and brother out her career. She enjoyed teaching her children and sister-in-law, Gordon and Janet Lewis of and grandchildren arts and crafts such as quilt- Colchester. She also leaves behind several nieces, ing, sewing and needlepoint. nephews and cousins. Susan is survived by her husband of 57 years, Debra enjoyed spending time with her grand- William Sweeney of San Diego, Calif.; sons and children and great-granddaughter, playing com- daughters-in-law, Marc and Kim Sweeney of puter games, watching movies and doing puzzle Portland; Eric and Fifin Sweeney of La Jolla, books with her mother. Calif.; and grandchildren, Ryan and his wife A private ceremony will be held at Marlboro Elyse, Erin, Ian and Alanna. Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Portland. Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Portland Fire Department, c/o Town of Portland, 33 East Main St., P.O. Box 71, Port- land, CT 06480-0071.