Plainville senior Ty Pales, left, and junior Ryan Barker, right, wrap up East Catholic quarterback Tim Wilson for one of three sacks during the Blue Devils’ 43-14 win on opening day.

By KEN MORSE

CORRESPONDENT

The Plainville Blue Devils stepped onto the gridiron at Tiny Stadium in the season opener against East Catholic with a lot of questions to be answered, following the graduation of 12 seniors, namely four year starting quarterback Frankie Griffin and four year all-purpose back Brady Callahan.

Many of those questions were answered in week one.

Junior Christian Collins at quarterback and senior Mason Sarra at running back gave the Blue Devils a new look. For the first time in five years and the first time for head coach Tim Shea, entering his fourth year at the helm, the Blue Devils started the season victorious clobbering East Catholic, 43-14.

The Blue Devils scored touchdowns on the first three possessions and went to the locker room at the half with a 31-0 lead with the help of a 29 yard field goal from Sarra.

“It feels great to come out here and perform the way we did,” said Sarra. “The line did good, the defense played well and we put some numbers on the board. The past few years we started slow (1-4, in 2017, 2-3 in 2018) so to come out here and get a win in the opener gives us some momentum.”

Plainville dismantled the Eagles with a defense that allowed just 25 offensive yards in the first half, thanks in part to three quarterback sacks from Ryan Barker, Dante Chambrello and Bhavya Patel that went for a loss of 31 yards.

How effective was the defense? Out of 24 first half offensive plays the Eagles had 10 plays where they were held to fewer than 2 yards. Three turnovers in the game stopped East Catholic from making a game of it with an interception by Dylan Hall and fumble recoveries from Alex Santini and Isaiah Diaz.

“We wanted to come out and make a statement, and I think we did,” said Collins. “I give our line all the credit for our win today. They went out and controlled the line of scrimmage and that’s what we need to do to be successful.”

The front five in the trenches of Barker, Ty Pales, Logan Caswell, Dante Chambrello and Adrien Marcos opened up the running lanes allowing Sarra (8 carries, 65 yards, 3 TDs), Collins (11 carries, 68 yards, 2 TDs) and Beau Lasher (6 carries, 90 yards, TD) to churn up the real estate moving the chains with 10 first downs.

Collins was 4 of 6 passing for 74 yards with Fabi Laoz (2 catches, 55 yards) and Hall (2 catches, 19 yards) hauling in passes but for as perfect as the game plan appeared to be there were some pot holes that the Blue Devils will need to avoid down the road.

A holding penalty took a touchdown off the board when Hall scampered 73 yards for a score and early in the second half when Collins barreled through several tacklers for a 27-yard score only to have it called back on another penalty.

Those are the kind of mistakes that can send a team into a ditch snatching a victory resulting in the agony of defeat. Along the way the Blue Devils did unleash a few other options in their offense when Esteban Torres scampered around the end for a 21 yard gain and late in the game with Dylan Brewer at quarterback he pitched one out to Cameron Lamothe for a 10 yard run and hooked up on a 15 yard pass play.

Linebacker Tanner Callahan made several key stops forcing East Catholic to punt twice to start the second half. Justin Emery chased down an Eagles back making a touchdown saving tackle before Diaz recovered a fumble.

“We did okay. We didn’t finish great and that’s something that we will address. There are still some things we need to clean up. We need to be held accountable from the first snap to the last,” said Shea, pointing to the two touchdowns taken off the board. “We can’t have that happen if we want to be successful. We did well on both sides of the ball at the line of scrimmage, but we do need to finish games a lot stronger.”

East Catholic entered the fourth quarter with just 29 offensive yards to show for their effort when quarterback Tim Wilson started to find 6-2, 220 pound tight end Jack Barry for four completions gaining 73 yards.

Chris Connelly scored a pair of touchdowns for the Eagles when East Catholic recovered an on-side kickoff to close the gap at 37-14 midway through the fourth quarter.

That elation on the Eagles sideline was quickly dashed when Lasher took a hand-off from Collins and brought it 55 yards to the house as the Blue Devils sidelines erupted in cheers putting the final touches on the 43-14 win.

Plainville will be on the road for the next two games at Northwest Catholic and then onto Jonathan Law of Milford before returning to Tinty Stadium to take on Bloomfield on Oct. 4.

The semi-annual Friends of the Plainville Public Library book sale will be Friday, Sept. 20, 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There’s a $3 family admission charge on Friday, but Saturday’s event has free admission. On Saturday, from 2 to 3 p.m., a fill-a-bag drive costs $3 for the first bag and $1 for each subsequent bag.

The event takes place at the Plainville Public Library, 56 E. Main Street.

On both days, DVDs and CDs will be sold for $0.50 each or three for $1. All proceeds from the sale fund library programs for adults, children, and teens.

Donations in good condition may be dropped off at the library during regular business hours. The Friends of the Plainville Public Library do not accept reference books, encyclopedias, textbooks, computer books, VHS, or cassettes.

Our community superhero, Axel Jace Ouellette, traded in his cape for his angel wings on Sunday, September 15, 2019 at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, with his devoted family and friends by his side.  In his short ten years on Earth, Axel taught the many lives he touched invaluable lessons of strength, courage, and optimism as he faced his two year battle with Leukemia.

Born in Virginia on October 11, 2008, Axel settled in Plainville with his Mom and Dad, William and Melanie (Pittenger) Ouellette, and was student at Louis Toffolon School.  A master LEGO builder, he set records with his speedy fingers and quick assembly skills, and was proud of his vast collection.  He played baseball with the Plainville Little League for as long as he could, and was granted his wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation to spend the day at Fenway to see his favorite Boston Red Sox play and be a member of the team.   He spent football season cheering on the New England Patriots, enjoyed his time with his league friends at Lessard Lanes, busted out one of his famous dance moves whenever a favorite pop hit came on, loved laying with his beloved dog Becca, and longed to be in his swimming pool as much as possible.  He found much joy in gaming, loved Mortal Kombat, was a Fortnite fanatic and enjoyed watching Ghost Adventures and Stranger Things with Mom. Axel truly believed that laughter was the best medicine and took great pride in making those around him laugh with his quick wit and playing tricks that only he could get away with.  His infinite legacy is one of steadfast bravery, love and smiles, and he will be missed beyond words by so many.

He leaves his Moma and Pepere (Pepe), Bill and Melanie Ouellette; his father, Michael A. Sundberg and his fiancée Jordan Callahan; his brothers, Jace and Jesse Sundberg; and his sisters, Holly Whitley and Bristol Steinbrecher; his grandparents, Michael J. Sundberg and Janice and Joe Adams and great-grandparents, Anita Ouellette, Alan and Cheryl Pittenger, and predeceased by his loving (great) Granny Laurie Mullamphy.  He also leaves his Uncle and video game buddy, Erik; Auntie Sam and Uncle Cam Baron, Auntie Mindy and Uncle Jack Horsey, Uncle Matthew and Auntie Johnna, Auntie Missy and Uncle Jim Fields, Auntie Jamie; many cousins and extended family including, Papa Larry, Jennifer Steinbrecher; “aunts and uncles” Faith, Doug, Greg, Skip, Mary, and Rosie; his countless tribe of support and friendship including special friends Ava and NimNim; his karate master and Mortal Kombat partner Carrie Waskowicz; his Guardian Angels at CCMC-Doctor Jonathan Bernstein, APRN’s Amanda (“Dr. Taco”), Tara (“Dr. Butt”), Karina, Keri; his special nurse and forever “girlfriend” Monica, and special nurses Drew, Anna, Missy, Jenna, Kelsey, Kristen, Amy, Tori, Olivia, Taylor, Kylie, “Old School Sarah”, Chelsea, Carrie, Stephanie, Kim, Kelly, Marie and Meghan to name just a few; Vanessa from Child Life who spent countless hours with Axel when Mom and Dad couldn’t be there playing (and losing) Uno and losing football bets, PCA Kyle who spent extra time working on dance moves with Axel, PCA Vanessa who entertained and was equally entertained sharing poop stories with Axel and many many others who went above and beyond for their little buddy.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Make-A-Wish www.ct.wish.org

Family and friends may gather in celebration of Axel’s life on Friday, from 4-8 p.m. and on Saturday, from 9-11 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  Words of Remembrance will be shared on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.   All are encouraged to wear attire that would honor Axel’s bright spirit and favorite pastimes……Wear your favorite superhero costume or t-shirt donning Lego, Fortnite, Avengers, Minecraft, Superheros, poop emojis, his favorite color red, or any casual apparel is welcome since Axel hated to dress up!

For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

A summer school student receives his achievement award at the final ceremonies.

Learning continued over the summer through the 2019 RAMP (Reading and Math Power) program housed at Linden Street School during the month of July. This year, 44 students in kindergarten through third grade from all three Plainville elementary schools attended this annual summer program.

The primary goal of the program is to help students continue learning over the summer and bridge the academic gap between June and September. The half day program, which included breakfast and lunch each day, ran from July 1-25.

This year the RAMP program’s primary focus was on literacy development. Students received both direct and indirect literacy-focused instruction at their individual levels to ensure skill maintenance and development. Teachers delivered systemic, targeted and explicit instruction focused around balanced literacy.  This approach integrated various modalities including read-alouds, shared reading, a mini-lesson and an opportunity to practice both during small groups and independently.

“It was inspiring to walk into the classrooms and see students collaboratively working and actively engaged in the learning process.  I wanted to share this with parents and provide them with tools to continue to practice at home in a fun, interactive way,” said RAMP summer school program coordinator, Lily Cornielle, in a press release.

The culminating event for the RAMP summer program was a family celebration for participants held at Linden on July 25.  Students received achievement awards and reading materials, and showcased a number of “reading games” for family and friends in attendance. The celebration concluded with a slideshow highlighting the RAMP program and participants.

“Our RAMP program is an excellent model for providing continuation of learning opportunities over the summer,” said Superintendent of Schools Steve LePage in a press release. “Such opportunities are vital to many students in helping them maintain and accelerate learning. I compliment program coordinator Cornielle and our summer staff for providing a comprehensive and organized program. Bringing parents and families in on the last day to share outcomes and strategies for home support was also a terrific idea because learning requires a partnership between our schools and families.”

Crossfit owner Elliot Laden hugs a furry friend and Danielle Poulin displays a certificate of appreciation for Crossfit’s $400 donation to the Humane Society.

Plainville businesses have turned their attention towards the canine residents with a couple of doggy events. On Saturday, Sept. 7, Plainville’s Crossfit, below, held a WOOF-apalooza to raise money for the Meriden Humane Society. Last Saturday, Agway on the Plainville-Southington line held a Bark-BQ event with dog adoptions and a Help Willy’s Friends fundraiser to support local animal shelters.

Photos by JANELLE MORELLI

Mark Paturzo, founder of Help Willy’s Friends poses with the organization’s mascot. Help Willy’s Friends raises money for local shelters in memory of Paturzo’s late dog, Willy.

Jesse Cavallaro is considered one of the best wrestlers in Blue Devils history, and he was almost as dominant on the soccer field.

By KEVIN ROBERTS

STAFF WRITER

A two-sport athlete who competed in soccer and wrestling, Jesse Cavallaro is considered one of the best wrestlers in the history of the Blue Devil program. He compiled a record of 173-22 (.887 win percentage) on the mat, and his 173 winners place him 11th all-time in state history, according to the state record book compiled by Gerry deSimas.

All Cavallaro did on the mat was win four straight Northwest Conference championships, becoming the fifth wrestler in league history to do so. He is the only Blue Devil on the list.

Cavallaro was pinned once in his entire career, which came as a freshman, and he reached the 100-win milestone midway through his junior year. Cavallaro finished in the top three in all four CIAC class wrestling meets that he competed in. He won a Class M state championship at 103 pounds in 2002 and a Class S state title at 119 pounds in 2004. Cavallaro won state open titles in 2002 and 2004, and went on to compete at the New England meet.

In 2004, he finished second in New England, and that was after a double overtime loss in the final. Cavallaro was the Outback Steakhouse Athlete of the Week on ESPN2 in 2004 and served as a team captain in his junior and senior seasons. The 2004 team won the Northwest Conference title and finished second in Class S, which is still the top finish in program history. That 2004 Plainville team finished 11th in the final state wrestling coaches poll.

Cavallaro twice won 46 or more matches in a season, including a 50-3 record in 2004. He was 46-6 in 2001 as a freshman.

On the soccer pitch, Cavallaro was a four-year varsity starter at midfield, receiving all-Northwest Conference accolades three times. As a senior, he was a captain and earned second team all-state honors. Cavallaro was on the state Olympic development team during his sophomore and junior seasons. He continued to play soccer in college at Salve Regina University in Newport, R.I.

Tickets are available for the Plainville Sports Hall of Fame induction banquet. It will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5 at Nuchie’s Restaurant, 164 Central St., Forestville. This year’s inductees are Harold “Curly” Bartley (Class of 1962); John Mangan (Class of 1964); RoseMarie Havelevitch Dugas (Class of 1975); Jesse Cavallaro (Class of 2004); and coach Phil Mannarino. John Bello will be honored with the distinguished service award.

Tickets are $50 per person or $450 for a table of 10 and are available at the Dental Offices of Dr. Rusty Camp, 359 Farmington Ave.; Angelo’s Modern Barber Shop, 61 East St.; People’s United Bank, 117 East St.; and Gnazzo Food Center, 73 East St. Tickets can also be purchased via PayPal or Venno.

A cash bar social hour opens the festivities at 5:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., followed immediately by the awards.

To sponsor the event or to advertise, contact Mike Bakaysa at (860) 573-8015 or Byron Treado at (860) 836-3377. More info about the hall of fame can be found at www.plainvillesports.com.

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Kevin Roberts, email him at KRoberts@SouthingtonObserver.com

By TAYLOR MURCHISON-GALLAGHER

STAFF WRITER

Election road has officially rounded the last turn now that the order of appearance of candidate names on the ballot has been finalized and approved by Plainville Town Clerk Carol Skulkety. The ballot lottery, held on Wednesday, Sept. 11, determined the order in which names of candidates would appear on the November ballot.

The lottery came on the heels of the Republican primary on Sept. 10. where GOP party members, Lori Consalvo and Nicole Palmieri, fell short in their campaigns for Republican candidacies.

Of the 2,503 registered Republicans in Plainville, only 349 votes were cast in the primary (approximately 14%). Democratic registrar Susan Abram said this turnout was “very poor,” in comparison to the 29% that typically turn out during elections.

Current town councilors Ty Cox, Kathrine Pugliese, and Deborah Tompkins, as well as David Underwood and Jacob Rocco were the Republican candidates that were endorsed for council during the July caucus.

After the primary votes were tallied, Palmieri (133 votes) failed to make the Republican ticket. Party-endorsed candidates Cox (240), Tompkins (267), Pugliese (271), Underwood (287), and Rocco (246) won the primary vote.

Although Republicans initially endorsed Lori Consalvo at their caucus for the two-year term on the Board of Education to fill a vacancy, she turned it down to attempt to earn the party endorsement for the four-year term. Rachel Childress Buchanan then received the party nomination at the caucus.

At the Sept. 10 primary for the two-year BOE candidacy, Buchanan beat Consalvo, 181-136.

With the list of candidates complete, town officials held a lottery the following day to determine candidate order, left to right.

Because current Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont is a member of the Democratic party, Democrats will be listed above the Republican candidates on the Nov. 5 ballot.

Town Council

There will be 11 candidates running for a seat on the town council. On Tuesday, Nov. 5, voters will be asked to select five candidates.

Democratic candidates for Town Council (in the order that they will appear on the ballot): Rosemary Morante, Bill Garrity, Jessie Salley, Jesse Gnazzo, and Christopher Wazorko.

Republican candidates for Town Council (in order); Deborah Tompkins, Ty Cox, David Underwood, Katherine Pugliese, and Jacob Rocco.

Beneath the Republican party will be a third line for the sole unaffiliated candidate running for the council, Wayne L. Fish.

Board of Education

Six candidates will be running for four-year terms on the BOE, and voters will be selecting five.

Democratic candidates for BOE four-year terms (in order): Foster S. White, Rebecca Martinez, and Crystal D. St Lawrence.

Republican candidates for BOE four-year terms (in order): Michael Guiliano, Deb Hardy, and Laurie Peterson.

Two candidates will be running for two-year terms on the BOE, and voters will select one. The Democratic candidate is Brent Davenport. The Republican candidate is Rachel Childress Buchanan.

Constables

There are eight candidates vying for the position of town constable, and voters are asked to select four names on Election Day.

Democratic candidates for constable (in order): Shelley Johnson, Joseph Klepacki Jr., Kathleen Michalik, and Cheryl M. Castonguay.

Republican candidates for constable (in order): Ross Zettergren, Richard Drezek, Ezio Capozzi Jr., and Cassandra Clark.

Library Trustees

There are only two candidates running to be elected as a library trustee, Democrat Kenneth Laska, and Republican Francis Rexford Cooley. Voters are asked to select two candidates.

Referendum

There will be one referendum question on the ballot, regarding an appropriation of funds for the second phase of the road improvement project. The proposed ordinance reads, “Ordinance appropriating $5,000,000 for the Phase II Road and Related Improvements Program, and authorizing the issue of bonds and notes in the same amount to finance the appropriation.”

If approved, the project could include but not be limited to the restoration of adjacent sidewalks, landscaping restoration, or new or improved drainage. Funds could be used during the design phase, construction, acquisition and installation costs, right-of-way acquisition, materials, administrative, printing and permitting costs, engineering fees, other financing costs, or other related expenses.

Town Clerk, Carol Skulkety, urged residents to plan accordingly for absentee ballots, applications for which will become available in her office at the end of the first week of October, from 8 a.m., to 4 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m., to 7 p.m., on Thursday, and 8 a.m., to noon on Friday.

Applications can also be found through the town clerk’s website, by visiting www.plainvillect.com/town-clerk/pages/absentee-ballots. All completed ballot applications must be completed, signed, and submitted to the town clerk’s office before a ballot may be issued. Applications can be mailed to “Plainville Town Clerk, One Central Square, Plainville, CT 06062.”

Absentee ballots can be issued to registered Plainville voters for the following reasons: absence from the town during all of the hours of voting, illness, active service in the armed forces, duties as an election official at a polling place, religious tenets, and physical disability.

To contact the clerk’s office, call (860) 793-0221 ext. 247.

Anna (O’Hara) Kaczmarczyk, 95, died peacefully at home on September 13. Born September 22, 1923, in Pennsylvania, she was the widow of Harry Paul Kaczmarczyk Sr. and predeceased by her 4 siblings.   A longtime resident of Plainville, she was the owner of AOK Package Store.  During the war she worked in several local spring factories before achieving her longtime dream of owning her own business.

She leaves behind 4 children. Carol (widow of Wendell Rector) of South Carolina, Paula and Terry Kendall of Burlington, Margaret Taylor of Southington and Harry Kaczmarczyk JR of Plainville. She leaves 8 Grandchildren and their spouses and 10 great grandchildren and several great grand dogs .

Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her most prized possessions.  She instilled in all of us the importance of family and was happiest at family gatherings where the bigger and noisier the occasion the better.

She was always full of energy and adventure.  She celebrated her 75^th birthday with a hot air balloon ride. She toured Europe, and traveled to Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Las Vegas and went cross country. Her favorite local activities were supporting the UCONN Women’s Basketball team and weekly trips to the casino. If there is a slot machine in heaven, we know mom will find it.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Mulberry Gardens, Visiting Angels and Hospice for their exceptional care.

Mom was an incredible role model and will be sorely missed.

Services are private and at the convenience of the family

The Town of Plainville will begin collecting fallen leaves on Monday, Oct. 21. The collection process will continue through Wednesday, Dec. 4, weather permitting.

The first areas to be covered on the collection schedule are: Central area, West Main Street area, Farmington Avenue area, South End-Red Stone Hill area, Shuttle Meadow are, Arcadia Avenue area, Metacomet area, Northwest area, and Unionville Avenue area.

Residents are instructed to rake leaves to the curb as early as possible. Only leaves will be picked up; grass clippings will not be collected. For streets with an island, no leaves should be deposited on the islands.

Bagged leaves will not be collected, but they can be brought to the drop-off center on Granger Lane. The center is open on Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the month of November, the drop-off center will be open Monday through Friday,  from 2 to 4 p.m., for leaves only.

Town officials will continue to update the public regarding the progress of the operation.

For more information or questions, contact the public works department at (860) 793-0221, ext. 208, during office hours on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; on Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; or Fridays, 8 a.m. to noon.

FARMINGTON, Conn. — A 71-year-old man tripped atop a cliff and his adult son tried to save him, but both fell about 75 feet to their deaths at an abandoned quarry in Connecticut, police said Thursday.

Steven Price, and his 30-year-old son, Mark Price, were riding all-terrain vehicles with a third man near the old Tilcon quarry in Farmington shortly before their deaths on Wednesday evening, police Lt. Timothy McKenzie said.

The Prices stopped and got off their ATVs near the cliff’s edge just before they fell, he said.

“It appears to be a tragic accident,” McKenzie said.

The other man who was with the Prices called 911 at about 8 p.m.

“My friend fell off the cliff … him and his father. They’re not breathing,” said the caller, who was not identified. “His dad went to look at something, tripped, his son went to grab him and they both fell.”

Steven Price, of Bristol, and Mark Price, of Plainville, died at the scene. The third man had to lead police officers and firefighters to the location because it was difficult to locate because of challenging terrain, police said.

McKenzie said there doesn’t appear to have been any criminal aspect to the deaths, but the incident remains under investigation. The quarry was off-limits to the public, he said.

All three men worked for Siracusa Moving & Storage, the New Britain-based company’s president, Dan Siracusa, told The Hartford Courant. He said Steven Price had recently received a clean bill of health after cancer treatment, and Mark Price was the single father of a 3-year-old daughter.

“Everybody here is very, very sad,” Siracusa told the Courant. “These were wonderful, wonderful people.”

PARC, Inc.
28 E. Maple St, Plainville, CT 06062
Phone: (860) 747-0316
www.parcdisabilitiesct.org

Community first responders will be recognized and honored by PARC, Inc. at the 19th Helen and Danny Coughlin annual memorial walk on Saturday, Oct. 5. The event, which will be held at Norton Park, is one of the major fundraisers for PARC, the non-profit organization that for more than 60 years has been providing family centered services including healthy living activities, life skills, regular programming and community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities.

The event is named in honor of Helen Coughlin who was one of the founders of PARC, Inc. and her son Danny, who was one of the first members.

First responders including firefighters, police officers, ambulance personnel and officials will be honored and asked to showcase their emergency services. Walk registration begins at 9 a.m. Opening ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m., followed by the walk.

Food, music and opportunities to win gift baskets are also planned. It is possible that emergency vehicles, if available, will be onsite. The public and first responders from all towns are invited.

A popular feature of each walkathon is the chili festival which is free to enter. For a small donation, people are welcome to sample and cast their ballots for their favorite chili beginning at 11 a.m. PARC is also collecting non-perishable food items for Plainville Community Food Pantry, which is experiencing a significant shortage.

Organizing this event is multi-faceted and planning is in full swing. Businesses and individuals interested in sponsoring can sign up now. Sponsor signs are also being sold not only to promote a business but to honor or memorialize someone special or to even convey a sentiment or congratulations.

Registration is $25 which includes a T-shirt. For more information about the 19th Annual Helen Coughlin memorial walk, to be a sponsor, enter the chili contest or participate, contact the office at (860) 747-0316 or email edonovan@parcdisabilitiesct.org.

More at www.parcdisabilitiesct.com or on PARC, Inc’s Facebook page. Online registration can be done at bit.ly/2TS10HV.

PARC, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax-deductible and directly benefit programs. PARC is open to residents of Plainville and surrounding towns.

The Plainville Police Department announced the following arrests and citations from Monday, July 8 to Sunday, Sept. 22:

• Victoria Cromack, 34, of 34 Tolcott Rd., New Britain, was arrested on Monday, July 8, and charged with sixth degree larceny.
• Thomas J. Zooleck, 62, of 11 Young St., Plainville, was arrested on Monday, Sept. 16, and charged with operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence, and failure to signal on a turn.
• Thomas Soucie, 57, of 21 Riverview Dr., Plainville, was arrested on Tuesday, Sept. 17, and charged with operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence, reckless driving, and unsafe tires.
• Angel Morales, 38, of 28 Center St., Bristol, was arrested on Wednesday, Sept. 18, and charged with sixth degree larceny.
• Joseph R. Drouin, 43, of 49 Hillside Ave., Plainville, was arrested on Thursday, Sept. 19, and charged with interfering with or resisting arrest, second degree breach of peace, possession of less than one-half ounce of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia with less than one-half ounce of cannabis.
• Daniel Inturrisi, 26, of 150 Mark Ln., Waterbury, was arrested on Thursday, Sept. 19, and charged with failure to respond to an infraction.
• Constance M. Lynch, 52, of 236 East St., Plainville, was arrested on Friday, Sept. 20, and charged with second degree intimidation, and second degree threatening.
• Ferris L. Neal, 61, of 234 East St., Plainville, was arrested on Friday, Sept. 20, and charged with third degree assault, disorderly conduct, and operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence.
• Jason P. McShane, 43, of 1 Novelty Ln., Essex, was arrested on Saturday, Sept. 21, and charged with second degree stalking, third degree assault, second degree unlawful restraint, first degree criminal trespassing, tampering with a motor vehicle, disorderly conduct, and second degree harassment.
• Michael J. Colon, 35, of 126 Milford Street Ext., Plainville, was arrested on Sunday, Sept. 22, and charged with second degree threatening, and disorderly conduct.
• Matthew R. Palmieri, 35, of 157 New Britain Ave., Berlin, was arrested on Sunday, Sept. 22, and charged with having minimal insurance, and operation or parking an unregistered motor vehicle.

by MIKE CHAIKEN

EDITIONS EDITOR

If you go

Who: Collective Soul

Where and when:  The Big E, 875 Memorial Ave., West Springfield on Friday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. and Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m.

TheBigE.com, RidgefieldPlayhouse.org, CollectiveSoul.com

The title of Collective Soul’s latest album is called “Blood.”

In press materials promoting the release, the band explains the word “Blood” has many meanings. But in the case of the new album, the band says “Blood” means family: either those to whom you are related or those who are your close friends.

Such as your bandmates.

The group’s drummer, Johnny Rabb, said family is key for any touring musician.

Collective Soul performs at the Big E on Friday and the Ridgefield Playhouse Tuesday, Oct. 1.

Rabb said Collective Soul spends most of its time on the road, with the members separated from those loved ones.

Their family may be miles away, said Rabb, but the band members find themselves together for an hour and a half on stage, and another 22 ½ hours off stage.

“We count on each other,” said Rabb.

Rabb said he’s been in a bands where the members don’t get along. He said, “Trust me…it’ not fun.”

The group members – who beside Rabb are lead singer E Roland, rhythm guitarist Dean Roland, bassist Will Turpin, and lead guitarist Jesse Triplett – do have some ups and downs, said Rabb. Most families do.

But overall, from the crew members to the band itself, Rabb said, it’s a brotherhood.

Collective Soul is celebrating its 25th anniversary on a tour that stops at the Big E on Sept. 27 and the Ridgefield Playhouse on Oct. 1.

Rabb said Collective Soul is still vibrant because it continues to mine its own sound.

There also was a shot of creative adrenaline injected into the band when he and Triplett signed on board.

Collective Soul, he said, has now reached a level of creativity that E has always wanted it to be.

And, Rabb said, even after 25 years, Collective Soul keeps moving forward.

Rabb said the band has been on a high as of late. Musically, the members are super tight. E has been writing a lot of music and writing with purpose. The group also has been recording a lot.

They’ve been recording so much, said Rabb, that even though “Blood” was just released in July, Collective Soul already has another album in the can.

There has been a lot of younger fan interest in the bands of the 1990s. Rob Thomas and Matchbox 20 still sell out arenas as does the Goo Goo Dolls. Groups like Bush, Live, and Our Lady Peace have toured with great accolades from the fans. And Green Day has returned with new music.

The bands of the 1990s had timeless songs, said Rabb, explaining the resurgence of that era.

When the band takes the stage at Ridgefield Playhouse, the members of Collective Soul will find themselves in a much more intimate setting than an arena (such as the one at the Big E). Rabb said he likes to have the fans in close like that. It allows for better communication between the members and the fans. The close proximity also provides the group with instant feedback when they can see the reaction of fans all the way to the back of the venue.

Even though Collective Soul often plays the same songs for each show, he said the band recognizes that for many in the audience, this will be the first time they’ve heard the song live. So he said Collective Soul tries to inject each song with the same kind of energy that comes from playing a song on tour for the first time.

Collective Soul performs at the Big E, 875 Memorial Ave., West Springfield on Friday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. The band also performs at the Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 8 p.m.

For information, visit theBigE.com, RidgefieldPlayhouse.org, or CollectiveSoul.com.

State Sen. Henri Martin, left, joined House and Senate Republicans to call upon the governor to bring the legislature into special session to fix a tax on groceries that is set to go into effect in October.

By TAYLOR MURCHISON-GALLAGHER

STAFF WRITER

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services recently announced that a 1% increase would be added to the state’s sales and use tax. A policy statement released by DRS calls for a tax of 7.35% on pre-prepared meals.

The policy statement reads, “The sale of all meals, regardless of cost, is subject to sales and use taxes at the rate of 6.35% for sales occurring on and before Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, and at the rate of 7.35% for sales occurring on and after Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019.”

In the same statement, DRS defines a “meal,” as “food products that are furnished, prepared, or served in such a form and in such portions that they are ready for immediate consumption. A “meal” includes food products that are sold on a “take out” or “to go” basis and that are actually packaged or wrapped.”

Many area representatives and senators have spoken out against the tax, with one even calling for a special session of the legislature to address the increase.

State Rep. Liz Linehan (D-Cheshire, Southington, and Wallingford) wrote a letter to DRS Commissioner Scott Jackson where she said that the office of fiscal analysis conducted a preliminary analysis of the sales and use tax on meals.

“The agency’s new policy will generate significant revenue beyond what was projected to be collected as part of the budget, which in addition to being unnecessary, I believe to be troublesome and against the processes set forth and followed by the legislature,” Linehan said in a press release. “The budget passed this last session was a fair, balanced budget, and the additional revenue expected by the DRS’s unilateral proposal, without any knowledge of the legislature, is unnecessary, and therefore, must be reversed.”

State Rep. Cara Pavalock-D’Amato (R-Bristol, New Britain) described the new tax as a “money grab,” in a joint statement with state representatives Whit Betts (R-Bristol, Plymouth) and Dr. William Petit Jr. (R-Plainville,  New Britain).

“I am appalled that we are even in a position where we need the governor to repeal a new tax on groceries that would be detrimental to underemployed populations in Connecticut,” said Pavalock-D’Amato. “These new taxes should have never been included in the budget to begin with, but they were cunningly implemented into the state budget.”

“I hope the governor will realize that these tax increases will have a negative impact on all consumers but particularly those with lower and middle incomes, and will also complicate the day-to-day operations for businesses,” said Petit in a release.

State Sen. Rob Sampson (R-Southington, Wolcott, Prospect) said in a press release that “the new 7.35% tax will also apply to many good items that have never been taxed at all before when sold in grocery stores,” and “the policy also results in a tax increase on food items sold by restaurants and eating establishments.”

Sampson’s release included a list of food and beverage items that will be affected under the new tax, including but not limited to: sandwiches, grinders, wraps; popsicles, ice cream cones, cups, sundaes, and other individual servings of frozen desserts unless sold in factory pre-packaged multi-unit packs; ice cream, frozen yogurt, and other frozen desserts sold in containers of less than one pint; salads sold at salad bars; lettuce or greens-based salads sold in containers of 8 ounces of less; salads that are not greens-based (macaroni, potato, pasta, fruit, etc.) sold in containers of 8 ounces or less; donuts, muffins, rolls, bagels, and pastries (five or fewer); cookies sold loose (five or fewer when cookies are sold by quantity, or less than 8 ounces when cookies are sold be weight); pies or cakes by the slice; pre-packaged or factory-sealed bags or packages of 5 ounces or less of chips, popcorn, kettle corn, nuts, trail mix, crackers, cookies, snack cakes, or other snack foods, unless sold in factory pre-packaged multi-unit packs; pizza, whole or by the slice; cooked chicken sold by the piece, including buckets of chicken, and whole cooked chickens; cooked ribs sold by the piece or portion and whole racks of ribs; hot dogs served on a bun or heated; bagels that are individually prepared; soup sold in containers of 8 ounces or less, unless sold in factory pre-packaged units; smoothies; meal replacement bars; all beverages provided with the sale of a taxable meal; food sold at a hot buffet; food that is cooked to order; popcorn, kettle corn, nuts and any other snack foods that are kept warm for purchase; and items such as salads, side dishes, and rolls, when sold as part of family pack meals typically including, whole chickens or buckets of chicken, when prepared and sold for immediate consumption, even when the items exceed the weight or quantity of limits above.

Beverages that will be affected by the tax include: beer, including nonalcoholic beer; fruit juices, sweetened beverages, soft drinks, and soda; carbonated water; coffee or tea (ready to consume, hot or iced); distilled alcohol such as brandy, rum, whiskey, gin, vodka, and tequila; fountain drinks of any kind; hard cider; kombucha tea, and other naturally carbonated beverages; malt liquor; milkshakes; hot chocolate; syrup-flavored crushed ice drinks; and wine.

The DRS policy statement also specifically names several styles of eating establishments where meals will also be affected by the tax, including: banquet halls; bars; big-box retailers; cafeterias; caterers; cocktail lounges; coffee or donut shops; convenience stores; delicatessens; diners; discount stores; drive-ins; fast food outlets; fish markets; food trucks; grinder shops; grocery stores; health food stores; hot dog carts; hotels or boarding houses; ice cream trucks; online retailers; pharmacies or drug stores; pizzerias; private or social clubs; refreshment stands; restaurants; sandwich shops; snack bars; specialty food stores; street vendors; supermarkets; sushi bars; taverns; variety stores; and vitamin stores.

“These new taxes are a prime example of the same tax-and-spend mentality that we have seen the majority party Democrats use year over year. Connecticut residents are taxed on mattresses, digital downloads, they pay a passport to parks fee, and now an additional tax when they trade in their car or go grocery shopping. When will this end?” said Betts in a press release. “I urge this unfair tax to be repealed immediately given the projected surplus in the state budget, and the billions of dollars in the rainy day fund.”

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Murchison-Gallagher, email her at TMurchison@PlainvilleObserver.com.

Jeremy Coutar set the pace for the boys at the cross country season opener.

By KEN MORSE

CORRESPONDENT

This week, my Big Blue award for the outstanding performance of the week goes to swimmer Natalie Basile. In her very first varsity swim meet, the Plainville freshman went out and—not only won her first two events in the 200 individual medley and the 100 backstroke—but posted times that qualified for the state meet in the process.

Here’s the week in review:

Cross Country

The Blue Devils are off and running, sporting a 2-4 record on the season. On Tuesday at Plainville Middle School the Blue Devils went up against last year’s Class L runner-up Bristol Central and a Berlin squad that finished fourth in Class MM.

Plainville showed well against the experienced competitors with Brody Davidson (18:30) finishing sixth to lead the boys team. Emily Roy (24:04) led the girls team posting an eighth place finish overall.

For the boys, junior captain Jeremy Coutar (18:58) posted a personal best to finish eighth. Justin DeBellis (19:48) set a personal best with his 16th place finish, while freshman Javan Benoit (20:01) put up the fourth best Plainville time.

The girls senior captain Emma Lopez (25:36) placed 15th overall. Rounding out Plainville’s top three was senior newcomer Caitlin Riedel (26:43). Plainville is back at it on Thursday Sept. 26 at Southington.

Girls Volleyball

The Lady Blue Devils (1-2) took on last year’s Class L semifinalist Bristol Eastern on Tuesday in a tough, 3-0 loss (22-25,13-25,16-25).

Katie Tanguay and Wiktoria Galazyn led the team in blocks and kills with Olivia Gajor setting up the offense leading the team in assists. Olivia Wazorko also was a force on the offensive end for the Blue Devils.

Plainville began the season with a solid performance against NW Catholic in a 3-0 setback (19-25, 24-26, 20-25). Last Monday Plainville got their first win of the season against Bloomfield 3-0 (25-5, 25-13, 25-16).

The Blue Devils have their work cut out this week taking on Bristol Central on Monday, Platt on Wednesday and will be at home for 5 p.m. contests with Wilby on Thursday and Old Lyme on Friday.

Girls Soccer

The girls soccer team is getting closer to their first win of the season. Plainville opened with a 6-0 loss to Conard with Amber St. Onge recording 20 saves in the net. On Tuesday the Blue Devils were on the short side of a 1-0 final to Bloomfield.

Plainville fell to 0-3 on the season against Bristol Eastern on Thursday. Freshman Nayelle Heredia got Plainville on the board sending one to the back of the net on an assist from Delaney Beausoleil.

The Lancers struck back and the game was tied 1-1 at the half.

Bristol Eastern went on scoring spree half way through the second half tallying three goals in a three minute span to take a 4-1 lead.

Freshman Tea Autunno scored a goal to close the gap at 4-2 before the Lancers added two goals in the final minutes for the 6-2 win.

Plainville will look to put their first win in the books this week hosting Bristol Central on Tuesday in a 6 p.m. match and finish out the week at home on Friday against Platt at 3:45.

Girls Swimming

The girls swim team took on a tough Southington squad but came up on the short end of a 94-83 final in the season opener on Friday.

The Lady Blue Devils saw their strong freshman class rise to the occasion with Natalie Basile taking first place and qualifying for the states in the 200 IM (2:30.11) and the 100 backstroke (1:09.05).

Freshman Katie Lyman finished second in the 100 backstroke and freshman Olivia Sleszynski was first in the 100 breast stroke (1:23.77). Juniors Ashleigh Bantz (2nd, 200 freestyle, 2nd ,500 freestyle), Olivia Unwin (2nd, 100 breast stroke) and Isabella Samperi (2nd, 100 fly, 3rd, 500 freestyle) had strong performances along with sophomore Emma Miller (3rd, 50 freestyle).

The 400 freestyle relay team of Basile, Samperi, Miller and senior Alyssa Macomber raced to victory in a time of 4:21. The 200 freestyle foursome of Macomber, Sleszynski and seniors Liz Susco and Phoebe Gediman finished 2nd and the 200 medley relay squad of Basile, Samperi, Miller and Sleszynski took 2nd as well.

Plainville is back in the pool against Conard on Tuesday and finish out the week on Friday at Windsor.

Football

The football team racked up their second impressive win of the season taking a 38-7 decision over NW Catholic on Friday.

The Blue Devils pounded the rock rushing for 400 yards on 48 carries and hung on to a 17-7 lead heading into the final quarter.

Plainville unleashed the fury of their offense, hanging three more rushing touchdowns on the board to pull away in the fourth quarter.

Christian Collin (4 of 11 passing for 57 yards) scored on two touchdown runs. Beau Lasher added a pair of touchdown runs and Mason Sarra had a touchdown run, booted five extra points and a field goal.

The Blue Devils (2-0) have outscored the opposition, 81-21, and heads to Milford on Friday to take on Jonathan Law from the FCIAC.

Patrick Gryczewski fights off a Bristol Eastern defender to head the ball during a 1-0 loss last Friday.

By KEN MORSE

CORRESPONDENT

The Plainville boys soccer team wasted no time getting back into the fray after capturing the first state championship in the history of the Blue Devils soccer program.

Plainville began the season against Farmington, last year’s No. 5-ranked team in Class LL, and lost, 4-2. Last Tuesday they went up against the Class L semifinalist Wethersfield and came up on the short end of a 2-1 decision.

Starting out the season at 0-2 didn’t seem to concern head coach Tim Brown very much, as he was more intent on getting his team ready to do battle against the best of the best. Last Friday the Blue Devils met up with Southern Region Patriot Division rival Bristol Eastern, and Plainville came out on the short end of a 1-0 final.

“We certainly have the talent and the ability. It’s a process, and we are working on that process,” said Brown. “All of our games have been close. If we weren’t competing and were getting blown out, then I would be concerned.”

It didn’t help the Blue Devils cause having senior captain Logan Miller out with an injury, but for the most part the midfield of Nathan Cyr, Tucker Rau and Tanner Rau were able to steer the ball into the Lancers’ zone.

Patrick Gryczewski was aggressive, winning several headers creating opportunities for Trevor Rau and Reno Lausier inside the box. With 16 minutes to play in the first half Tanner Rau steered a pass along the sideline to Jacob Pierce over the middle at the 30 yard line.

Pierce found Jordan Torres inside the box with separation from the defender. The shot had an angle for the open portion of the net but the Lancers keeper Nate Diloreto (6 saves) made a leaping save.

“Plainville moves the ball very well, so I thought we played a strong defense that was compact and limited their opportunities,” said Bristol Eastern head coach Bill Sweet. “We tried to keep them from getting into a rhythm. They did have a great shot in the first half but our goalie made a tremendous save.”

Defensively Jens Wadehn, Brady Beausoleil and Gavin Bravado worked out in front of keeper Brennan Staubley (11 saves) to disrupt the Lancer attack.

With 1:46 to go in the first half, Kyle Cyr collected a loose ball in the corner and sent a pass into the box that found a hard-charging Jake Woznicki. Staubley committed, closing off the near corner of the net as Woznicki took it to the far post for the game’s only score.

Will the first win come on the road? The Devils travel this week for games against Bristol Eastern and Platt.

Attention Town Council and Board of Education candidates. On Thursday, Sept. 18, we distributed our candidate questionnaires to the party chairs, so they could distribute them to their candidates. If you have not yet received your questionnaire, feel free to contact Observer staff writer Taylor Murchison Gallagher at TMurchison@PlainvilleObserver.com.

The questions are designed to offer candidates a chance to talk directly to voters with questions to allow them to share their perspective about what they felt were the biggest issues of the past term and the biggest challenges for the next. We hope voters read all their answers carefully, so that ballots can be cast for candidates that will best represent voters—not parties, lobby groups, or even the candidates’ own financial or personal interests—over the next term.

The deadline for submission is noon on Friday, Oct. 11. In an effort to keep the process fair to all candidates, we will not print questionnaires received after the deadline.

Election-related letters from readers

We invite readers to contribute letters to the editor. Please include a name, address, and phone number and email us at JGoralski@SouthingtonObserver.com.  There is a limit of 350 words. The deadline for any election-related letters is Friday, Oct. 18 to give candidates a chance at rebuttal.

We will strive to be balanced in how we determine who to run and who not to run, which is based on practicality—there is only so much physical space in a newspaper—rather than an attempt to silence anybody’s viewpoints.

We will try to publish the letters that do not make the printed version of The Observer on our website, www.PlainvilleObserver.com, but that will also depend on the volume. Finally, everything submitted is expected to follow our policies on letters to the editor.

A number of Plainville residents and groups served as town ambassadors at last weekend’s Mum Festival in Bristol. Members of Plainville’s Barque Eagle Naval Sea Cadets, above, marched in the Mum Festival Parade last Sunday.

Photos by JANELLE MORELLI

Roger J. Mailhot, 88, of Plainville, formerly of Bristol, passed peacefully with his family by his side, Saturday, September 21, 2019.  He was the husband of Geraldine (Theriault) Mailhot for 67 years.

Roger was born on March 27, 1931 in Lyster, Quebec, Canada the son of the late Henry and Marie (Bergeron) Mailhot and has been in the Bristol area since 1959.  Roger retired in 1990 after 40 years with Stanley Works in the Quality Assurance division.

Roger and Geraldine enjoyed traveling cross country in their RV. He loved gardening, woodworking and spending time with Family

Besides his wife, he leaves his daughters, Patricia Petit and her boyfriend Roderick Stratton, Karen Lugo and her husband Joseph all of Bristol, and Sally Lebron and her boyfriend Ken Fisher of West Hartford; a sister, Aliette Ziolkowski of naples, FL; grandchildren Tammy Mastrianni, Joey and Jennifer Chasse, Nicole Petit, Bryce and Rose Lebron and Joseph Lugo; great grandchildren Logan Brennan, Evan Haynes and Declan Brault. He was predeceased by his brothers Leopold, Benoit and Lionel Mailhot.

Services are private.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook St, Rocky Hill, CT 06067 (www.cancer.org).  To leave an online message of condolence, share a memory or a photo, please visit Roger’s tribute page at www.OBrien-FuneralHome.com.

By TAYLOR MURCHISON-GALLAGHER

STAFF WRITER

Two public hearings were scheduled for Monday, Oct. 7, during last week’s meeting of the town council. The Oct. 7 hearings will cover topics such as the sewer user fees related to the phosphorus removal project, and proposed amendments to the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.

Both public hearings will begin at 7 p.m., and will be held in the Council Chambers of the Plainville Municipal Center, 1 Central Sq., Plainville.

Flood Damage Prevention

Flood Damage Prevention, chapter 225 in the Plainville Code of Ordinances, was adopted by the Town Council in 1993 and subsequently amended in 2008.

“Town staff is recommending that various sections of the existing ordinance be amended in order to comply with the current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and their requirements,” said town manager Robert Lee. “The amended sections being proposed are in sections 225-17, 225-18, 225-19, 225-20, 225-21B, 225-23, 225-24A, 225-25A, 225-26, and 225-27 respectively.”

Sewer User Fees

A public hearing was scheduled for Monday, Oct. 7, regarding the increased rate of sewer user fees.

Lee explained that a study was performed several years ago to address the cost impact of the phosphorus removal project taking place at the Water Pollution Control facility. Tighe & Bond, who performed the study, recommended “the user charge increase at a steady rate of 4.8% a year for approximately 10 years,” and “that the town plan to keep an unassigned fund balance equal to three months operating expenses in the sewer user fund to protect against any unanticipated emergency expenses that could occur.”

Last year, after reviewing the unassigned fund balance, the town council was able to lower the recommended increase rate.

Town staff is now recommending a 2% increase in sewer user fees, and staff “is projecting a 2% increase for the following 5 years, as well, in order to maintain three months of operating expenses in the unassigned fund balance.”

Census Committee

At the Sept. 16 meeting, the council established a complete count committee, the members of which will work to promote and encourage Plainville residents to respond to the 2020 Census.

Currently, the Complete Count Committee includes Katherine Pugliese, Rosemary Morante, Nicole Palmieri, Shawn Cohen, Trish Tomlinson, Susie Woerz, Rebecca Martinez, and Jen Farina. The committee is looking for representatives of Plainville Early Learning Center, the clergy, and the Plainville Chamber of Commerce.

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Murchison-Gallagher, email her at TMurchison@PlainvilleObserver.com.