Extra Big Scoop

Things I Can't Explain

2010-11-11T17:41:00.000-08:00

For reasons I cannot say, I have stopped writing about the work I do for The Bristol Press and the events and people of Bristol, Connecticut.

I wish it were different, and when I am able to resume Extra B.S., I will. Readers can still reach me by clicking on the email link to the right.

Thanks to all of you who put eyeballs on Extra Big Scoop. I truly appreciate it.

Anyone who is interested in continuing to follow what I have to say is invited and encouraged to visit http://www.yjiblog.org/, which is the official blog of Youth Journalism International. I do a lot of posting there.

As you may know, YJI, founded by myself and my husband Steve Collins, is an educational, non-profit organization, a 501(c)(3) public charity, based here in Connecticut, with students around the world -- five continents and counting!

Youth Journalism International (http://www.youthjournalism.org/) got its start in Bristol in 1994. YJI connects teen writers, artists and photographers with peers around the globe, teaches journalism, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and promotes and defends a free youth press.

We do not charge students to participate, and it's a great way for them to learn about journalism and each other. A large body of our students' work can be seen in the award-winning, independent, online teen newspaper, http://www.readthetattoo.com/.

You can check out YJI's ratings, as described by students, alumni, parents, grandparents and professionals, at http://www.greatnonprofits.org/.

If you care about Bristol, please keep an eye on the Bristol Blog (http://www.bristoltoday.com/), which is Steve's work blog. Despite the often nasty anonymous comments that follow his posts, there is still a lot there for interested readers.

If you care about our world, the future of journalism or young people -- or if you just want to keep tabs on what the next generation has to say, please support Youth Journalism International in whatever way you can. Definitely check out http://www.yjiblog.org/. Become a follower! :)

Thank you all.

Playing Crocodile Club Catch Up

2010-09-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

meant to get all caught up with Crocodile Club last week, but I didn't. So here are the tidbits left out in the telling:

Host Ray Dunaway did a good job. He wasn't prepared to say the blessing before the meal, but the expected preacher didn't show, so Ray had to man up and do it. He figured his credentials as club president gave him "the authority" so he plunged right in. I don't think he'll be running off to theology school anytime soon, but I'd say he passed. On a side note, he told me his accordian was in rough shape, so he didn't bring it. Hope he gets it fixed in time for next year.

Ray had a bell that he said he'd ring if anyone didn't abide by the five-minute time limit on the speeches. The only time he had to use it was on the first speaker -- Bristol Mayor Art Ward -- who was just getting warmed up and hadn't even tried to be funny by the time the bell rang. The bell didn't stop the mayor from moving ahead with his remarks, though.

The picture here is one of me and Wally Barnes, and the mayor, before he got the bell.

Carolyn Norton was the only Norton at this year's dinner. She was the toast of the town and the belle of the ball. She had fun, too.

Lots of old timers were happy to see the club back, thanks to the permission of the Norton family, who owned the rights to it, the hospitality of Lake Compounce, the great food provided by Nuchies catering and the hard work of the New England Carousel Museum, which brought the event back as a fundraiser.

Tons of newcomers were excited to get to attend the club for the first time. Many of them were seated up front at the head table and they had to give speeches. There could have been some better briefing by staff, since a couple people didn't understand how the humor was supposed to be playful and remarks weren't supposed to be mean. Hopefully next time, they'll know what it is and get with the program.

The worst offender was Mark Boughton, who is running for lieutenant governor on the Republican side. He took a serious shot at Dan Malloy and the crowd definitely didn't like it. As he made his way back to his seat, I heard Malloy tell him his "joke" didn't go over "any better than when Ned Lamont told it."

Malloy and Tom Foley were both there for the first time. I'm not sure they were excited or enjoying themselves, though. When they weren't working the crowd, they sat next to each other at the head table and didn't look all that comfortable. When they spoke, they both tried to be funny. They were, but only a little bit.

Worst joke of all? Tom Marsh, the independent candidate for governor. "What's brown and sounds like a bell?" Marsh asked. "Dung."

No, I'm not kidding.

Linda McMahon surprised me with her wit. She had a few off the cuff remarks that were pretty good, including a swipe at Dunaway for noting her age when he introduced her and no one else's. Her opponent, Richard Blumenthal, joked about how un-funny he is and sure enough, wasn't especially amusing, except when he talked about being camera shy.

George Jepsen recited a short limerick, which in my book gets a few props for creativity:

"It is the year 2010

The crocodiles have assembled again

At long tables they eat

Some really odd meat.

For me, I will stick with the gin."

Classiest speaker, in my humble opinion, was Nancy Wyman, who raised a glass to the memory of Stretch Norton, recognized Carolyn Norton and just stayed in the spirit of the Crocodile. It's not hard to see why she's popular.

Not sure why the carousel museum decided to take a "break" in the middle of the program to draw a raffle number. It could have been done quickly but instead, a break was announced and a whole bunch of people, including many of the candidates on stage, beat a path to the door.

John Larson and Ann Brickley had to wait until after the break to speak, which didn't seem right to me, since much of the room had emptied by then. It is the U.S. Congress, after all.

The award for best patient goes to Betty Boukus, who is healing from total knee replacement surgery. She's getting around pretty well, she said, and is definitely following doctor's/physical therapist's orders.

Most conspicuous absence that day? Stretch Norton. Everybody missed him.

Biggest delight for me? Wally Barnes was there. My favorite moment of the whole thing was taking a spin on the park's antique carousel with him.

I discovered that, like me, he also prefers a jumper to a stander. He didn't get the brass ring, he said, but I felt like I did.

Wally hadn't expected to be in town, but when he found himself there, he "didn't want to miss it," he told me. I'm glad.

Main Street Community Foundation is 15!

2010-09-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

The Main Street Community Foundation, which offers corporations, families and individuals a way to set up special funds and leave a legacy in their hometown for generations to come, is turning 15.
The foundation has an interesting history, which I included in a story for Wednesday's edition of The Bristol Press (http://www.bristolpress.com/). It all started because some local philanthropists and community-minded folks like Bob Merriman, Tom Barnes, John Smith, Terry Fletcher, Ed Lorenson and others decided that the area needed a community foundation.
It's great when a good idea truly takes flight and that's what happened here. Through the Main Street Community Foundation, families, companies and individuals can offer specific scholarships or grants to people and to non-profit organizations. There's nothing else just like it in the area.
The Foundation serves Bristol, Southington, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth and Wolcott.
A gala affair, silent auction and public auction at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington on Sept. 24 marks the anniversary bash. Tickets are $125 and are available from the foundation's office at 200 Main St. or by calling them at (860) 583-6363. Black tie optional, and foundation President Susan Sadecki promises a fun evening with dancing to a Motown band, good food and a few surprises.

Happy Birthday, ESPN!

2010-09-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a shout-out to all my friends at ESPN on the 31st anniversary of their company. They've got much to be proud of.
The man in the photo above (which was provided by ESPN from its latest Bristol groundbreaking) can take a lot of credit for the company's success. He's President George Bodenheimer, one of ESPN's earliest employees, hardest workers, smartest people and nicest guys.
You don't see him on the tube much, but he's responsible for setting the company's style, culture of giving back to the community and general good citizenship, from environmentally aware recycling and composting programs to providing employee daycare and workout facilities.
Cheers for 31 years to everyone at ESPN, and many happy returns!

Larson Loves Archives

2010-09-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

I toured an interesting Bristol business last week with Congressman John Larson, Dupont Business Archives.

This company stores paper and electronic records, manages archival storage and delivery of wanted documents and more. They've got a snazzy climate-controlled, fireproof vault and about three stories of nothing but shelving units with boxes and boxes and boxes.

Larson, whose First District includes Bristol, was riveted.

The congressman is a former history teacher, so naturally he has an appreciation for archives, records and all that. But this went beyond an appreciation. He was truly fascinated by the materials and methods Dupont uses (double walled cardboard boxes are the key in that place) and it didn't take long before Larson had decided he wanted these professionals to take care of his own records.

As someone with a long career in public service -- I think it goes back to his local school board in East Hartford -- Larson has good reason to want to keep his records organized and available.

It's a feather in Dupont's cap if he brings them his business, and I think he will. They do work for many municipalities in Connecticut, including Bristol, East Hartford and Waterbury, to name a few. They store records for law offices, medial professionals and other businesses.

They also sell the materials for the people who want to keep their own records on site. I wrote about all of this for The Bristol Press. I think you can see the story online at http://www.bristolpress.com/.

The reason Larson toured Dupont in the first place is becuase the Bristol business, which got a city grant when it moved to town a couple years ago, also is a beneficiary of the federal stimulus program.

Dupont got a loan through Farmington Bank that was backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration using funds from the Recovery Act.

Larson told me that one of his frustrations is that a lot of Americans don't see the results of the Recovery Act. His stop at Dupont was a way to highlight the stimulus program in Bristol, but I think he was more excited by the arhive possibilities.

As my husband Steve Collins is a former history major at the Univerity of Virginia, and as someone who also loves the written word and keepsakes of all sorts myself, I totally get why the congressman felt he'd struck gold.

I'm glad he found it in Bristol.

School's In Session For Seniors, Too

2010-09-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

This in from the Bristol Senior and Community Center:

Open Registration for 2010 Senior Fall Classes will be held on Wednesday, September 8th and Thursday, September 9th from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Beals Senior-Community Center, at 240 Stafford Ave. Bristol.

The classes are held at the Beals Senior-Community Center for Bristol Senior Center members . If you cannot register on those days, you may come in to the Main Office after those dates and register after 9 a.m. until classes are full. Classes are $10.00 and will begin on Monday, September 20th.

The Senior Center offers Senior Enrichment classes, which are sponsored by the Bristol Board of Adult Education, for 10 weeks, which include Ceramics (day and evening), Chair caning, Line dancing, Painting (Oils or Watercolor) as well as a Beginners Painting class; “One-Stroke” painting on Monday Mornings and on Wednesday evenings, Quilting (anexperienced class and a beginners class), Ladies exercise class as well as Co-ed exercise classes. This semester we have a Gentle Yoga for Seniors class as well as a Sculpt, Strength & Tone Exercise class for Seniors.

The Senior Center Community Computer Center will offer FREE Introduction to Computers Classes (2), and Introduction to Microsoft Word Classes, Introduction to the Internet classes for $5.00 as well as a Digital Camera Class for $8.00, all taught and coached by Volunteers. Call 860-584-7895 for questions. Bristol Senior Center Membership card is required at registration.

New Look for Youth Journalism International's Blog

2010-09-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

I spent a good deal of time over the holiday doing work for Youth Journalism International, an educational non-profit organization that I run with my husband, Steve Collins.

Youth Journalism International connects teen writers, artists and photographers with peers around the globe, teaches journalism, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and promotes and defends a free youth press.

We've been at it since 1994 and have about 150 students on five continents and a long line of kids waiting to get involved.

One of the things we did over the weekend was spruce up YJI's blog a little bit. If you're interested, check it out at http://www.yjiblog.org/ and see what you think.

Working The Weekend

2010-09-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

I was working Saturday, but not blogging. Sometimes all my time is spent getting information and writing a story and I run out of time for posting. That was one of those days.
I was too busy trying to find out what happened at Stephanie's Sports Bar in Forestville early Saturday morning.
I'm not the police reporter; I was just working that Saturday. My story about it appeared in the Sunday edition of The Herald Press and online at http://www.bristolpress.com/.
According to the police, there was a big fight at the bar, which is on Central Street next to Nuchies, and three men were apparently stabbed during the fracas. There may have been a gun brandished and shots fired, but no report of anyone shot, the cops said. One of the guys who was stabbed had surgery at Bristol Hospital. That's the last I know of anything. I don't know what happened to him or the other two as the cops didn't even release a name.
Some of my focus in writing about the incident was on Forestville Center, and the impact such a crime would have on that typically quiet little spot.
I never could reach the bar's owner, Steve Coan, whose home phone is unlisted. No one answered at the bar, either.
Dave Pasqualicchio, who owns Nuchies with his brother Mike, had plenty to say. He was furious at the mess he says is consisently left by Stephanie's and its customers. He was worried about the reputation of the village in light of the incident and also, understandably, the impact on his own business next door.
To be clear, Nuchies serves alcohol but is not a bar. It's a banquet facility and caterer and isn't even available for drop in customers as far as I know.
Anyone who knows Dave knows he runs a tight ship there and spends a good deal of time every day picking up litter all over Forestville. His own place is spotless, so off he goes with a bag and picks up trash that thoughtless people cast out of cars and drop along the roadways and in the parks, in and around the center of Forestville and beyond. He's been doing this for years without a lot of recognition, mostly because it just bugs him to see litter and he cares about the community.
He said the police didn't even call him to let him know that there had been a serious incident next door to his building, or that they'd put police tape around it and blocked off his parking lots. When he got to work Saturday morning, they wouldn't even let him enter his building at first. (Nothing happened in his building but apparently the search for evidence had a pretty big radius.)
I lived happily for many years not far from Nuchies and the Manross branch of the Bristol Public Library. That part of Bristol, Forestville, is a nice neighborhood with good businesses and decent people living there. I still like to visit there. It's clean, safe and usually quiet. Dave and the good people at the Forestville Village Association are working hard to keep it that way.

New Boy in Her Life Thrills Chamber Exec

2010-09-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Cindy Scoville, vice president of sales and marketing at the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce, has good reason to beat a path to Boston these days.

There's a cute new love in her life, grandson Andrew Emerson Scoville, who lives in Beantown.

Fresh from a visit to to see him early this week, Cindy's "too new" at the grandmothering gig to tell me whether she loves it, she told me.

I know she does, though. She's headed back to Boston this weekend, and who could blame her?

Crocodile Club, One Of The Missing Pieces

2010-09-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

I wrote two stories about the Crocodile Club for today's edition of The Bristol Press, but I guess there wasn't room for everyone's comments, so in case you're the kind of reader who wants the whole enchilada, here goes:

First-timers joined old “crocodilians” at the Crocodile Club dinner at Lake Compounce Tuesday, rubbing elbows with many of the state’s candidates and reconnecting with old friends.

“It think it’s a grand event,” said Jill Fitzgerald of Bristol, who is the Republican candidate for the state House in the 77th district and attending the dinner for the first time. “I really like it.”

Many of the people there, both candidates and non-candidates, said they enjoyed the friendly, social aspect of the dinner that left serious politics at the door.

“It’s bringing back a lot of memories,” said Bristol City Councilor Ken Cockayne, who said he used to come to the park to watch his late grandfather, Patsy Cistulli, help longtime organizer Stretch Norton with the cooking.

“So far, it’s great,” said Republican Ann Brickley, who is hoping to unseat Congressman John Larson in November and was attending her first dinner.

“This is an excellent crowd,” said state Rep. Betty Boukus, a Plainville Democrat. She said she’s happy that the carousel museum has taken over the dinner and will benefit from it.

Wallace Barnes of Bristol, whose attendance at the Crocodile Club goes back to the 1950s, said he came back early this week from an out of town trip and came to the dinner because he “didn’t want to miss it.”

Thomas Morrow, executive director of the Bristol Community Organization who has attended many Crocodile Club dinners in the past, brought his friend James Gatling of Southington.

“It’s got a rich history,” said Morrow, who said he’s glad that the Crocodile Club dinner now benefits a non-profit agency.

Gatling, who runs a similar agency in Waterbury called New Opportunities, said he didn’t know quite what to expect but was wowed by the number of people there and the fact that politicians from both parties came together in one place.

“I’m really impressed,” Gatling said.

George Sobestanovich of Bristol, who wore a Crocodile Club shirt and hat he bought at the last dinner in 2002, said it was a good afternoon.

"I'm glad they resurrected it," Sobestanovich said. "I hate to see these old traditions fade away."

John Lodovico of Bristol also said he’s glad the club is back, adding that the ballroom at Lake Compounce provided a “very comfortable setting” for the event.

State Sen. Tom Colapietro, a Bristol Democrat, said he saw a lot of friends he hadn’t seen in years. He said he was happy to support the dinner, which was a benefit for the New England Carousel Museum.

“This is non-political,” said Colapietro.

“It’s entertaining,” said Tunxis Community College President Cathryn Addy, who attended the dinner for several years before it ended with the last one in 2002. “I’m happy to see it back.”

Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, who had a reputation of arriving late and leaving early at the dinner each year, vowed to stay “for the duration” this time, and did.

“It’s a great tradition,” Blumenthal said. “I’m just delighted to be here again.”

Crocodile Club President and host Ray Dunaway pronounced the dinner a success.

“It’s the first time I’ve ever been at an event when Dick Blumenthal stayed till the end,” Dunaway said.

The Crocodile Club was videotaped for later broadcast on CTN.

Press Wants Your Business News

2010-09-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

The Bristol Press is looking for briefs on business people to run on Monday in the business section. If you have any promotional items, appointments, awards or photos in jpg form, please email them to business@centralctcommunications.com.

Foley Visits Quality Coils

2010-09-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

Tom Foley, the Republian candidate for governor, paid a visit to a Bristol manufacturer yesterday.
Foley, along with his wife Leslie Foley, state Rep. Bill Hamzy, City Councilor Ken Cockayne and state senate candidate Jason Welch, toured Quality Coils Tuesday morning.
I like these kinds of stops by candidates because I get to meet the people who run the factory and hear what things are like for them. I also get to spend a little time with the candidate and his entourage, which is helpful.
At Quality Coils, I spoke with Mike Thiem, the plant manager and company vice president who's been around since the 1970s, and Keith Gibson, one of the three brothers who took over the company, which was founded by their dad, Archibald Gibson.
Mostly I learned from them that the biggest challenge facing the company is the uncertainty of its customers. The customers aren't ordering far in advance, so when they do want to make a purchase, they want the stuff right away. That means that if they want the business, they need trained people on staff, ready to make the products, which are all custom made. But without knowing what orders might be coming in the future, it's hard to plan. They've rehired and now have a larger payroll than when the recession started, but there's still a lot of uncertainty.
I also learned that Hamzy spent a summer working at Quality Coils a number of years ago.
I wrote about the visit for The Bristol Press. The story's online now at http://www.bristolpress.com/.

Crocodile Club 2010

2010-08-31T20:57:00.000-07:00

It was a great time and a huge success for the New England Carousel Museum.
I'll have more to say, I promise, but it was also a long, hot day and I'll post about it Wednesday. I wrote stories for The Bristol Press, and they should be in Wednesday's paper or online at http://www.bristolpress.com/, but I'll have other bits to share here as well.

Extra B.S. Exclusive: Original Crocodile Club Lyrics By Wallace Barnes

2010-08-30T20:21:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Bristol people is Wallace Barnes. I know him pretty well, but he still surprises me with his stories and recently, he shared one about the Crocodile Club that I can share with the readers of Extra B.S.

In 1954, at the tender age of 26, Wally ran against Tom Dodd (Chris Dodd's dad) for Congress in the First District. Our man from the Mum City "lost big time," as he put it, but had a lot of fun in the process.

In fact, he said, he was "infected by a lifetime case of 'politicicis.'"

A highlight of the race, he told me, was attending the Crocodile Club and performing a song at the event on the ukelele. He wrote the lyrics, set to the tune of "Five Foot Two."

It was, he told me, "one of the limited number of tunes I could play."

Now for your Extra B.S. exclusive,which I saved for right before the Crocodile Club.

Here are the lyrics, published with permission from the ukelele-playing Wally Barnes himself:

"Out in Bristol, by a clear cool lake

Every year there's a big sheep bake

They named it after a crocodile.

Gad Norton's plan was not too deep

He approached the boys who liked roast sheep

And they all ate like crocodiles!

Now, whether this tale is false or true

Is very hard to say.
But the Good Lord wasn't too dismayed
'cause the sun always shines on Crocodile Day.

So, eat the sheep, enjoy the fun
And doze away while the speeches run
Today we all are crocodiles."

Malloy Ready To Be a Crocodilian

2010-08-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

Democrat Dan Malloy is taking time out from his race for governor to attend the Crocodile Club tomorrow.

Malloy was kind enough to call me today to let me know that he's looking forward to the event at Lake Compounce.

"I've never been, so I don't know what to expect," Malloy said. "I feel uninitiated."

He wondered if it's a casual event, so though I told him most people dress pretty casually and normally, I warned him about the likelihood of seeing old guys in plaid shorts and black socks.

He said he's working on his remarks, and I advised him to be funny. He said he didn't play an instrument, so he won't be jamming with host Ray Dunaway, who is expected to bring his accordian, or Rep. Frank Nicastro, who will bring his trumpet.
Malloy, who was mayor of Stamford from 1995 to 2002, said he never got an invitation before.
But then, he said he's never had so many friends as he seems to have right now.

No Butts - Cigar Smoking Tradition Snuffed

2010-08-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

One of the traditions of the Crocodile Club -- enjoying an after-dinner cigar -- is over this year.
The state law prohibiting smoking inside bars and restaurants, which took effect in 2004, means that Crocodilians won't be able to light up and puff while listening to the speeches at tomorrow's dinner.
That's good news for those who like to breathe.
For those who like to smoke, there's an outdoor smoking area just outside the building, said Jerry Brick, general manager of Lake Compounce, which is hosting the dinner.
The last dinner was in 2002, before the smoking ban.
The New England Carousel Museum is reviving the Crocodile Club dinner, which for many generations was put on at the park by the Norton family. The dinner is now a fundraiser for the non-profit museum.
I wrote about the change in tradition for Tuesday's edition of The Bristol Press, so you can see the full story at http://www.bristolpress.com/.
So if you're a Crocodilian inclined toward a cigar, be prepared to take it outside.

Tickets to the dinner are still available, until 5 p.m. Monday at the museum and at the door on Tuesday. The party starts at noon.

Croc Tickets On Sale Today!

2010-08-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

Until 5 p.m., you can buy your ticket to the Crocodile Club dinner at Lake Compounce for $50.

Tomorrow, at the door, they'll cost $55.

Not that the $5 will go to a bad cause -- proceeds are going to the New England Carousel Museum, which is worth a donation, but still, five bucks is five bucks and you might need it.

So you heard it here, folks -- get your tickets today at the museum on Riverside Avenue, or call them at 860-585-5411 and charge it.

A little while ago, Louise DeMars, the director of the musuem, told me nearly every candidate for statewide office, including both Dan Malloy and Tom Foley, candidates for governor, will be at the event.

About 300 tickets have been sold so far, which is impressive for the first year back since the last Crocodile Club dinner in 2002.

Iowa Is Hot, Beautiful And Not Flat

2010-08-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

Bristol Board of Finance member John Smith went to my home state of Iowa last month to pedal his bicycle hundreds of miles from the Missouri River on its western border to the Mississippi on the east ide of the state.

I wrote a story for The Bristol Press about John's annual participation in RAGBRI, a hugely popular bike ride initially started by a couple writers for the Des Moines Register. I've never taken part in RAGBRI myself, though I love to bike and I love Iowa, so I am impressed that John ships his bike out to the Midwest nearly every summer to make the journey.

He enjoys the ride, the towns, the scenery, the warmth of the people and the experience of being part of thousands of people from around the world converging on this Midwestern state for a week.

The harsh weather? It's just part of the challenge.

Not very many Connecticut residents have spent any time in Iowa, so I love to hear John talk about how much he likes the place. I also appreciate his perspective on the landscape, which, while not at all mountainous, is decidely not flat.

The story I wrote appeared while I was in Iowa myself. I'm back in Connecticut now, trying to catch up a bit, but didn't want you to miss this.

The photo above is one John gave me. It shows a little of the landscape, a small number of the riders and John on the far right, pumping up the hill.

Hurricane Katrina, Five Years Later

2010-08-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

Today marks five years since Hurricane Katrina slammed into the Louisiana coast.
Samantha Perez, a high school student from St. Bernard Parish -- whcih took the brunt of the storm -- was just starting her senior year when her family fled their home just before it hit.
Samantha Perez is a writer. She chronicled her own story of life before, during and after Katrina for Youth Journalism International. She began writing before the storm hit and continued for a year afterward. It's an amazing work, and if you haven't read it, take the time to do so.
This powerful, emotional and ultimately uplifting journal is all online in the independent teen newspaper, The Tattoo, at http://www.readthetattoo.com/.

Foley May Attend Croc

2010-08-28T19:07:00.000-07:00

Tom Foley, Republican candidate for governor, told me recently that he's still figuring out whether he'll be able to make the Crocodile Club on Tuesday at Lake Compounce.

The Crocodile Club, an institution in Connecticut politics, will be Tuesday, Aug. 31 at the Starlite Ballroom at the park. It's being revived this year after ending in 2003. The New England Carousel Museum, which will benefit from any proceeds, is bringing it back.

I contacted both Foley and his Democratic opponent, Dan Malloy, to see if either of the candidates for governor will be at the dinner, and Foley answered right away. He didn't have a definitive answer but he got back to me and promised to follow up.

Something I really like about Tom Foley is that not only is he pleasant in person, each time I've reached out to him, he's responded pretty quickly and with a great deal of courtesy.

I know candidates are generally more responsive than seated officials, but my experience with Foley makes me think that if I had a question for Governor Foley, I'd be able to get an answer, from him.

That's not the case now with Gov. Rell. She's friendly when I see her in person, but there's no way to ask her anything directly if we're not eye to eye.

I haven't heard from Malloy yet. He's always very friendly in person, but getting an answer otherwise hasn't been easy. I'll let you know when I hear again from either of them.

I hope they both decide to attend. It'll be a better event for it, and they'll have fun.

Larson Will Attend Crocodile Club

2010-08-27T13:04:00.001-07:00

I just learned from Congressman John Larson's aide that he will be attending the Crocodile Club dinner on Tuesday at Lake Compounce.
The Crocodile Club is being revived after a break of several years. It will benefit the New England Carousel Museum.
Lake Compounce is donating the use of the uber cool Starlite Ballroom, Nuchies is catering and Ray Dunaway is the emcee.
This is an event not to be missed, especially in this election year.
I'm not sure what political heavy hitters will be making an appearance besides Larson but I will try to find out and pass it along to you.

Dziob Co-workers Ready to Rumble

2010-08-24T05:46:00.000-07:00

Co-workers of Melissa Dziob at Countryside Manor and those of her late husband Jeff Dziob, who worked at the Bristol Post Office, will have a friendly and celebratory softball game on Saturday at Page Park. That's Jeff in the photo at the left.

The game starts at 4 p.m. and is a way to bring friends and family together in memory of Jeff, a much beloved husband, father of two young children, son, brother, co-worker and friend who was killed when a drunk driver smashed into his garage last December.

I hope they get great weather and are able to enjoy each other's company as they celebrate Jeff and life itself.

Egyptian Girl Chronicles Ramadan

2010-08-18T05:33:00.000-07:00

Jessica Elsayed, a teenager in Alexandria, Egypt, is writing a Ramadan journal for Youth Journalism International, where she is one of my students.
Jessica is the kind of kid that makes you smile every time you get a note from her. She's so excited about life, about writing, about her future. Right now, she's thinking a lot about college, which comes for her next year.
She's been doing a good job of writing regularly during Ramadan, which is the Muslim holy month. As a Muslim, she's expected to be fasting for Ramadan from dawn to dusk. She starts the journal explaining what Ramadan is and is exploring other related topics as it goes along.
It's interesting reading. If you check it out, I bet you'll see why I'm so proud of Jessica and the rest of my hardworking young journalism students at YJI.
They give me good reason to believe in our future.
Here's the link: www.yjiblog.org

New Play By Press Booster

2010-08-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

I just learned today that a new play called "Gray Matters" will be produced this fall in Hartford by the Emerson Theater Collaborative.
The play is by Connecticut playwright Jacques Lamarre, who works promoting the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford.
I happen to know Jacques, who in a previous life also worked promoting both Hartford Stage and Theater Works, two awesome theaters in Hartford. He's a terrific guy with a great sense of humor, a strong faith (I once heard him deliver a sermon, but that's another story) and also a wonderful sense of community.
He was one of the people who helped put together the screening of the documentary about near demise of The Bristol Press early this year at the Twain House. For that alone, he deserves a pat on the back.
But Jacques, who is, shall we say, a little zealous about pushing whatever organization he's working for, has never told me about his own plays.
"Gray Matters," which premiered in New York at the Midtown International Theater Festival over the summer and then played in Mystic this month, runs in Hartford from September 9-11.
According to the Emerson Theater Collaborative, which serves youth, underserved communities and artists in Southeastern Connecticut, the play is a topical new comedy that focuses on what happens to an uninsured, unemployed actor when she loses her memory.
The show will be at the Charter Oak Cultural Center in Hartford.Information and tickets for "Gray Matters" can be obtained by visiting EmersonTheaterCollaborative.org. Tickets are $25 ($23 for students and seniors).

Jonas Brothers, ESPN Softball Match-Up

2010-08-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

ESPN photographer Joe Faraoni took some great shots of the Jonas Brothers/ESPN game Friday at the Rock Cats stadium in New Britain. I'll try to post more of them later.

Jonas Brothers, ESPN Matchup Today

2010-08-13T06:58:00.000-07:00

Today's the big game, folks, between ESPN commentators and the Jonas Brothers boy band. It's a softball game at New Britain's Rock Cats stadium.
I'll have more on it after the big event, but if anyone out there is going and has photos or experiences they want to share through Extra B.S., send them to me at jmajerus@bristolpress.com.

Renaissance Offers 3-D 'Fly Through' Downtown

2010-08-13T06:52:00.000-07:00

Renaissance Downtowns, the Long Island company that is working to re-create downtown Bristol, has a new website up. It's got a cool, 3D feature that you might like to check out.
Here's what they sent me about it:

Renaissance Downtowns at Bristol has launched a website to keep community members up to date and informed about the redevelopment efforts. The website, which can be found at www.rdatbristol.com will provide information and status updates about the project as well as some additional background information on Renaissance Downtowns and their comprehensive and holistic approach to downtown redevelopment.

The website includes a 3D animated “fly through” of what a revitalized downtown Bristol could look and feel like as well as renderings that are available for the public to view.

As the development efforts progress, additional information will be provided on the website including the significant benefits that the Bristol community will receive from the implementation of a comprehensive and holistic downtown redevelopment. Visitors to the website can also learn about the “Smart Growth” philosophy that is a key component of Renaissance’s development approach along with a listing of news and events regard both downtown Bristol and Renaissance Downtowns.

The site will also inform the public as to the significant pent up demand for downtown living options. It is this underlying market demand that will provide the ability for Bristol to reap significant economic and social rewards from its comprehensive downtown redevelopment efforts.

The website also provides community members an opportunity to have their voice heard. Residents can send suggestions to the Renaissance team that will be valuable in moving the development process forward with participation from concerned residents.

“The launch of the rdatbristol.com website is an important component of our open and transparent process. The site is a tool for both education and outreach and we hope it will be utilized by local residents to remain on top of the redevelopment efforts for their downtown” said Brandon Palanker, director of marketing and public affairs for Renaissance.

I Goofed

2010-08-13T06:40:00.000-07:00

When I wrote about the Democratic primary in the race for registrar of voters late Tuesday night, I made a mistake and misidentified someone I spoke with at the Democratic victory party.
I wrote in a story that appeared on the front page of The Bristol Press and also in a blog post here that Don Padlo was a supporter of Elliot Nelson. I quoted him saying some things about the close race against Mary Rydingsward.
The trouble is that Don Padlo wasn't there. First of all, he's a Republican and doesn't support Nelson. Secondly, he was at the hospital having surgery on his eyes. (He's okay now.)
Padlo is one of Bristol's representatives on the Central Connecticut Regional Planning Agency board. I know him, but I still wrote his name by mistake instead of the name of the man I spoke with at the Democratic party.
I've apologized to both of them and I believe a correction ran in the paper.
Making mistakes like this, as Padlo graciously told me, is human. I chalk it up to sheer exhaustion, but I still feel lousy about it.
One of the things about being a reporter is that your productivity, accuracy and fairness is out there everyday for the whole world to see. So when I make a blunder, it's especially embarassing.
I've been off for a few days and am only getting to this now, but I felt it needed to be said.

Bristol Likes Malloy, Fedele, But Mostly, Lembo

2010-08-10T19:49:00.000-07:00

Bristol's tallies, from the registrar's office, with my thanks to Republican Registrar Sharon Krawiecki who helped me out on deadline, are listed below. But before you scan through, there's one interesting thing that I don't want you to miss. The city's top vote-getter tonight was Kevin Lembo, who totally buried challenger Michael Jarjura in the primary for comptroller. Maybe voters got sick of seeing just how low Jarjura could go with his negative ads.

Republicans

Governor:
Tom Foley -- 477
Mike Fedele -- 543
Oz Griebel -- 303

Lieutenant Governor:
Mark Boughton -- 564
Lisa Wilson-Foley -- 681

U.S. Senator:
Linda McMahon -- 679
Peter Schiff -- 337
Rob Simmons -- 330

Congress:
Ann Brickley -- 632
Mark Zydanowicz -- 649

Attorney General:
Martha Dean -- 777
Ross Garber -- 510

Democrats:

Governor:
Dan Malloy -- 1,808
Ned Lamont -- 1,369

Lieutenant Governor:
Nancy Wyman -- 1,984
Mary Glassman -- 1,154

Secretary of the State:
Denise Merrill -- 1,975
Gerry Garcia -- 1,137

Comptroller:
Kevin Lembo -- 2,130
Michael Jarjura -- 905

Nelson Blames Women Voters

2010-08-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

In an unexpected upset, challenger Mary Rydingsward narrowly beat Democratic Town Chairman Elliot Nelson in the race for registrar, 1,580 to 1,556.
“I’m passionate about democratic principles, and voting is one of those principles,” Rydingsward said at her victory party at the Downtown Café.
Nelson, the party-endorsed candidate, said he was surprised the race went to Rydingsward, a registered Democrat who has served as the treasurer of the Working Families party for the past two years. He said he’d expected to win by a comfortable 60-40 margin.
“It was the women vote that put her over the top,” said Nelson, who said he would ask for a recount because the vote was so close.
"The women don't love me," he moaned to a supporter.
Rydingsward said she had a lot of support and knocked on a lot of doors.
Asked whether the women’s vote made the difference, Rydingsward said, “I think the women, especially in Bristol, would like a qualified candidate in the position of registrar.”
Nelson said he ran a good campaign and was satisfied. He said he's still party chairman and planned to work hard to put a Democrat in the governor's mansion this fall.

Democratic Upset in Bristol; Rydingsward Victorious

2010-08-10T18:42:00.000-07:00

Mary Rydingsward beat out Democratic Town Chairman Elliot Nelson in the primary tonight for Democratic Registrar of Voters.
Nelson, who was the party's endorsed candidate, chalked it up to the women's vote.
She said it's because she knocked on a lot of doors.
It was very close -- 1,580 to 1,556.
Nelson said he will ask for a recount because it was so close.
More later.

Larson Honors Victims of Manchester Violence

2010-08-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

Congressman Larson led the U.S. House of Representatives in a moment of silence today in honor of the eight workers from Hartford Distributors who were murdered on the job last week in Manchester.
The moment is preceeded by Larson speaking for a few minutes about what happened and reading the names of those who were killed in that terrible violence, including Francis Fazio Sr. of Bristol.
Here's the link to the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udqUYyYPqJ4

Turnout "Dead"

2010-08-10T08:25:00.001-07:00

I just finished speaking with city Councilor Ken Cockayne. He told me turnout this morning wasn't even 5 percent. It's "dead," he said.
Where are the voters? I wonder if Bristol's low turnout is indicative of what we'll see statewide.

It's Primary Day -- Go Vote!

2010-08-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

If you are at least 18 and an American citizen, I hope you are registered to vote. If you are registered as a member of either the Republican or Democratic party, please take a few minutes to go vote in today's primary.

I can't remember so many hotly contested statewide races as we have this year in Connecticut. Don't sit this one out. Take part and cast your ballot. It's your state, after all.

Maybe the Wizard Can Win the GOP Primary

2010-08-09T20:48:00.000-07:00

I talked with Oz Griebel last week, trying to find out which of the candidates for governor planned to show up at this year's Crocodile Club.
Oz was the only one I spoke with who really knew what it was, though he'd never been to it.
For the record, Democrat Dan Malloy seemed to have heard of it (his running mate Nancy Wymany LOVES it) and Republican Tom Foley said he'd like to learn more. Democrat Ned Lamont and Republican Mike Fedele did not respond to my queries at all.
Anyway, back to Oz. He thought the Croc might be a great place to get ideas, which I thought was a wonderful attitude and indicative of his approach.
During our conversation, he also told me he's confident about the primary, which is Tuesday, August 10.
He said he thought he did well in the most recent debate, that Foley's numbers were dropping and Foley and Fedele were busy beating up on each other.
Oz told me he believed he could win it. I wished him well. It would be so cool to have a governor named Oz, don't you think?
Remember, the Crocodile Club is Tuesday, August 31 at Lake Compounce. Don't miss it!

Crocodile Club Retrospective

2010-08-09T07:32:00.000-07:00

I've been talking with people about the Crocodile Club's history.

The New England Carousel Museum is reviving the tradition started long ago by Gad Norton and continued until 2002 by his descendants at Lake Compounce, the family's amusement park.

The late, great Stretch Norton hosted the last Crocodile Club event in 2002 and sadly announced the next year that he could no longer manage it. That was the end of an awesome gathering, until the carousel museum this year got the permission and the blessing of the Norton family to start it up again.

Watch The Bristol Press for an upcoming story that looks back at the club's history and ahead to its revival, but don't wait to get your ticket -- contact the museum for that at http://www.thecarouselmuseum.org/.

As Stretch would say, "No tickee, no lambee!"

Foley Coming to the Crystal

2010-08-06T17:29:00.000-07:00

Republican Tom Foley, who hopes to win the primary next week and be the party's candidate for governor, is making a stop in Bristol early Saturday. The word is, he'll be at the Crystal Luncheonette at 8:30 a.m. I'm not working Saturday and I hope I'll still be sleeping at 8:30 a.m., so don't look here for an account. I asked Foley if he could come on Friday or Monday instead, but he said the schedule is locked in. He also said he'd be back to Bristol, which was good to hear. The photo below is from the campaign, by the way. It wasn't taken at the Crystal.

Good Morning, Marinelli's

2010-08-06T17:19:00.000-07:00

Photo by Kiernan Majerus-Collins

The coffee was really good at Marinelli's Supper Club in Burlington this morning.
I was there bright and early to hear Congressman Chris Murphy talk about saving manufacturing jobs.
Jim Marinelli was there, and the coffee was definitely on. He told me there aren't many early morning events at his place, which is, after all, a supper club.
Come to think of it, I'm not sure I've ever been there in the daytime before. They've got a beautiful lake behind the place -- a real asset. When I've been there in the past, it's been for the nights the restaurant hosts the Bristol Reunion Jazz Band.
Jim told me the band is off until October, but that in the meantime, they've got some French folk fiddlers coming in.
It's cool that they regularly host live music. If you get a chance, check it out.

Murphy for Manufacturing

2010-08-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

Here's Congressman Chris Murphy, talking with the business crowd this morning at Marinelli's Supper Club in Burlington. Murphy, a Democrat who lives in Cheshire, represents Burlington, Plainville, New Britain, Waterbury and a bunch of other towns.
This morning, he was talking about his key priorities in Washington, which are to help preserve manufacturing jobs. He's got a couple pieces of legislation he hopes will help. One is a new version of the Buy American Act that he says will eliminate some of the loopholes that are bad for American manufacturers and the other is the American Jobs Matter Act, which would allow the government to consider the impact on American jobs when awarding a contract.
Murphy visited as a guest of the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce, and was the speaker for the chamber's regular "eggs and issues" breakfast gathering. I wrote about what he had to say for The Bristol Press, so hopefully you can see it here: http://www.bristolpress.com/.

West End Clean-Up is Sunday Morning

2010-08-05T11:59:00.000-07:00

Want to help making things a little better in Bristol?
There's a clean up planned for Sunday morning in the West End, a neighborhood so many people love to criticize.
I wish everyone who feels entitled to slam the West End would get up Sunday and join city Councilor Ken Cockayne, neighborhood residents and business owners and lend a hand toward cleaning it up.

If even half of those who post hateful comments about this struggling neighborhood on the Bristol Press website after my stories about the West End would join in the clean-up effort, the transformation could be amazing.

They're meeting at South Side Meat Market at 141 West St. at 9 a.m. and expect to be finished before noon.
The city is providing trash barrels, police are posting temporary "no parking" signs to keep the streets clear for cleaning and Bill Englert, the community-minded owner of City True Value and Just Ask Rental on Route 6, is generously donating the use of some power equipment for volunteers to use.
Volunteers should bring their own gloves and brooms if they have them. To keep from getting burned, wear sunscreen and a hat!
Cockayne said there are at least 25 people he knows are lined up but said he hopes a lot more will show up on Sunday. The effort on Sunday will not involve bulk waste or cleaning up in the Pequabuck River.
Questions? Call Cockayne at 860-584-5918.

Malloy Stops in Bristol

2010-08-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

Dan Malloy, who hopes to win the primary Tuesday and be the Democratic candidate for governor in the fall, spent a little time in the Mum City Wednesday.
The former longtime mayor of Stamford rolled in to the ShopRite plaza on Route 6 with a small entourage that included his running mate, state Comptroller Nancy Wyman.
Malloy, who seemed to be full of energy, told me it was his fifth community of the day. He bounded into storefront after storefront, sticking out his hand and introducing himself.
All I could think was that this kind of campaigning must get pretty old, but Malloy, who is working to defeat opponent Ned Lamont on Tuesday, seemed to relish it.
He talked to shoppers and diners, approaching most of them on his own. Others came up to him to talk.
The guy on Lamont's payroll who follows Malloy around was there with his recording equipment. That's something relatively new to campaigns and I can't say I like it much.
This is at least three visits to Bristol by Malloy that I know of this year, not counting any Democratic Town Committee meetings they may have attended.
As far as I know, Lamont hasn't been in Bristol since he spoke to the chamber in February. Maybe he'll stop by before Tuesday.

Who Was That Robo Caller?

2010-08-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

I was standing in the ShopRite plaza parking lot Wednesday afternoon, waiting for Democrat Dan Malloy to show up for his stop in Bristol when some local pols started talking about robo calls.

State Rep. Chris Wright, a Bristol Democrat, said he got three robo calls asking him to vote for Malloy for governor in the primary Tuesday -- one from Congressman John Larson, one from Mayor Art Ward and one from himself.

    “It was a little strange,” Wright said, getting a call from himself urging him to vote.
     Hearing his own recorded voice was weird, Wright admitted.
    “That’s how I sound?” he said he asked himself. “No wonder everyone calls me ‘ma’am’ on the phone.”
     Wright blamed his high-pitched vocal chords on his dad, former state Rep. Gardner Wright, who’s been known to sound a bit squeaky.
     Ward said he gets the robo calls, too, but doesn't always listen to them.
     “I was supposed to get one from me,” Ward said. “I refused it.”

Mayor's Brother-in-law Escaped Carnage

2010-08-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

Mayor Art Ward told me just now that his brother-in-law, who was a truck driver at Hartford Distributors, escaped with his life Tuesday.
When his co-worker Omar Thornton started shooting as Thornton was reportedly being escorted from the building early Tuesday, the mayor's brother-in-law was only about a telephone pole's length away, Ward said.
"He escaped yesterday by jumping out a window," said Ward, with four others. "He saw him coming and he got out of there."
Ward, who used to be a salesman for Alan S. Goodman -- a competitor of Hartford Distributors -- said he knew four of the men who died in the shooting.
He'd met them on the road, Ward said, while they were all working, and sometimes, they socialized together. A couple of them attended a stag party for Ward's son, he said, adding that the friendships "go back a long time."
Ward estimated that only about four or five people from Bristol work at the Manchester company.
The mayor said he hasn't had much of a chance to talk with his brother-in-law since the horror.
"We're just grateful that my brother-in-law is fine."
Unless I speak with the brother-in-law, I'm not using his name.

Bristol's Francis Fazio a Victim

2010-08-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

I just heard confirmation from Bristol Mayor Art Ward that Francis Fazio, Sr. of Wolcott St. died in the shooting at Hartford Distributors in Manchester on Tuesday.
The mayor said he knew Mr. Fazio a little bit, though not well.
"It's really a shame," he said.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Fazio's family and friends and all of those hurt by this rampage.

Kids Flocking for Free Meals

2010-08-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

Here's something that's working well in Bristol: the summer breakfast and lunch program.
Thanks to a big push from the Bristol Community Organization (that's their logo to the left), the number of kids eating breakfast and lunch through the USDA program has skyrocketed this summer over last year's paltry figures.
Mostly, it seems it's due to moving the meals from inside O'Connell School on Park Street to the Rockwell Park pavillion. There's also been a real effort to raise awareness among kids and parents about the free meals.
I was over at the park the other day and it was positively teeming with kids of all sizes, playing on the playground, skating at the skatepark and swimming in the pool. Inside the pavillion, two nice women sat behind a couple of tables filled with sandwiches, fruit, fruit juice and milk. There's a decent assortment of sandwiches and the fruit was pears and nectarines that looked good. Kids can have a juice and a milk with their sandwiches and fruit.
The women, Elizabeth and Karen Welch (Karen is Elizabeth's mom) made sure to restock the food and drinks from a nearby cooler. They seemed to know a lot of the kids who came to eat, too.
Rockwell Park is considered an open site for the summer meals program. That means there's enough poverty in the neighborhood that everyone is qualified. No one needs to show any ID or register in advance. Just show up, kids, and chow down. It's really that simple.
The food isn't for adults and it's to be eaten at the site, so there's not much room for abuse. This is giving healthy food to kids who are busy playing (and some are working) in the park. Kids need it to grow their bodies and their brains and to stay healthy and happy. (Ever notice how skipping a meal makes you cranky?)
These little dynamos need fuel to keep going and I'm really glad they've got it.
Another open site in town is at Cambridge Park, which is also showing an increase in participation this year.
For the record, BCO doesn't run the program anymore, but the organization has stayed involved out of an interest in keeping kids fed. Whitsons, a school food service company, does run it and BCO and End Hunger Connecticut!, a non-profit organization, worked to organize the sites and are doing what they can to get the word out.
I wrote about this for The Bristol Press (http://www.bristolpress.com/) but I don't think it's run yet.

Bristol Victim of Manchester Shooting?

2010-08-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

The heartbreak in Manchester may have reached Bristol.
Our police reporter, Lisa Backus, is working on a local story about the terrible shootings at Hartford Distributors in Manchester. The word is that a Francis Fazio, Sr., who lives on Wolcott Street, was one of those killed.
I hope it's not true, but if anyone has any information they can share, please let me know at jmajerus@bristolpress.com and I will pass it along to her. I will update as I get information.

A Great Way to Remember a Friend

2010-08-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

In honor of Jeff Dziob, who died tragically last year, his former co-workers at the Bristol Post Office will play a friendly softball game later this month against the employees at Countryside Manor, where his wife Melissa works.

I heard about the game from Diana Maciag, who works at Countryside Manor.

She said the idea is to have a big get together in honor of Jeff's memory. It's not a fundraiser, but a way for friends to celebrate his life and each other, she said.

The game is set for 4 p.m., Saturday, August 28 at Page Park.
Jeff, a loving husband and father of two young children, died December 27 last year when an apparently suicidal drunk driver smashed her out-of-control truck into his garage and killed him.

I admire Jeff and Melissa's incredible large group of friends and co-workers for taking part in this. I hope they get a warm day with a cool breeze and have a wondeful time together.

No Shortage of Help for Bristol Kids

2010-08-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

When it comes to backpacks, Bristol's neediest kids ought to be covered pretty well.
There's a massive effort going on in several different sectors to collect backpacks and school supplies for children whose families can't afford to provide them.
The United Way will distribute about 400 packs to kids from kindergarten to eighth grade. They've found individuals, companies and organizations to "adop" one or more students and buy them a backpack, an outfit for the first day of school and supplies.
Donna Osuch, president of the United Way, said the packs are stuffed. She said the donors really get into it and often provide much more than is asked.
Though its volunteer and charity work called Team ESPN, the Bristol-based sports media giant will distribute about 300 packs to middle and high school students in Bristol -- and 500 more to needy kids in other areas where ESPN has a presence, said Rosa Gatti, a senior vice president. (Thanks, Rosa and ESPN, for thinking of Bristol teens, who often get forgotten in these kinds of collections. They need a hand, too, and their stuff costs more.)
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church is also collecting backpacks for kids of all ages. That's still going on, so if you've got the itch to join this backpack brigade, bring pencils, protractors, calculators, crayons, folders and more to the church.
Donations of any school supplies, packs or other items can be bought to the church at 355 Camp St. on Sunday mornings or between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.
If you're a family or a student in need, my best advice is to check with The Salvation Army to see if you can get some help. If they can't help, I'm sure they'll send you to someone who can.
Thanks to all who are helping make the start of school a little easier on Bristol's struggling families.

The Shooting at Hartford Distributors

2010-08-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

While we at The Bristol Press don't cover Manchester, I'm sure everyone is paying some attention to the terrible loss of life in the workplace shootings at Hartford Distributors today. I don't have anything to add to the story other than my own thought that it is horrible and probably reminds us all of the Connecticut Lottery killings. But Bristol's congressman, John Larson of East Hartford, has a big district that includes Manchester and he has a personal connection to the Hollander family. Larson was at the scene this morning and released these comments this afternoon:

"First of all, I send my deepest condolences to the Hollander family and the employees of Hartford Distributors affected by today's events. I am fortunate to call Ross Hollander a close, personal friend and over the years, I have gotten to know many of the great employees of the company. I visited the site earlier today to offer my support. This is a day or emotions no person, family, or loved one should have to experience.

“The Hollander family and the workers of Hartford Distributors have donated to our local charities and provided their time to bettering our state. I ask that we all be there for them during this critical time. My heart is with the deceased, the Hollander family and all those affected by this morning's tragedy.”

Chamber Plans "Best Place" Campaign

2010-08-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Mike Nicastro, president of the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce, knows a good thing.

Money Magazine recently rated Bristol 84th among the top 100 best small cities to live, with populations from 50,000 to 300,000.

That's great for Bristol, but Nicastro is making it work for the Mum City. He's jumping at the chance to use the Money Magazine "Best Places to Live 2010" logo to promote Bristol.

They're using in the chamber's electronic newsletter and on the digital sign on Route 6.

More uses of the logo to come, Nicastro says, in the coming months, as he works it all out with Money Magazine.

To me, that's using common sense and it's also smart business.

ESPN Cuts Bait

2010-08-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

The worldwide leader in sports is practicing the old angler's fish-friendly practice of catch and release.

ESPN announced today that it has "an agreement in principle" to sell BASS, LLC to a group of investors led by Don Logan, Jerry McKinnis and Jim Copeland. McKinnis, an outdoorsman, has a long history with ESPN as the host of the network’s second longest-running show, The Fishin’ Hole, which aired from 1980 until 2007, according to information provided by ESPN.

Until the deal is done, BASS will continue to be owned and operated by ESPN, which acquired it in 2001. Granted, holding it for most of a decade is a long time for catch and release, but my store of fishing word plays is somewhat limited.

BASS is the largest membership organization of bass anglers in the U.S. with more than 500,000 members, according to ESPN. It was purchased by ESPN in 2001 and includes several media platforms, including three magazines and a popular web site.

But viewers needn't fear that fishing will disappear from their television screens. As part of the deal, BASS’ core television programming assets – the Bassmaster Elite Series and Bassmaster Classic – will remain on ESPN networks, according to ESPN.

Maybe they'll even show those fins in 3D.

Former Crocodile Club Prez Warns Dunaway

2010-08-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

Gerry Brooks, a Hartford NBC news anchor, served as Crocodile Club president some years ago, at the request of the late Stretch Norton, who ran the dinner for decades.

He's clearly got a good memory of the event and told me organizers made a good choice in picking WTIC's morning talk show host, Ray Dunaway, as this year's emcee.

“I'm glad they got Ray to preside over the festivities,” said Brooks. “He knows everybody, everybody knows him, and he's an equal opportunity offender.”

But Brooks said being the emcee won’t be all fun and games.

“His biggest challenge, of course, will be to try and deny Dick Blumenthal's request that he speaks first because he's ‘gotta run.’ And believe me, that is a challenge.”

The Crocodile Club used to draw hundreds of politicians, local celebrities and hangers on to the Starlite Ballroom at Lake Compounce every August. The last dinner was in 2002. After that, Stretch, whose great-great grandfather, Lake Compounce founder Gad Norton, started the tradition, announced that he couldn't manage it anymore.

The event is being revived as a fundraiser for the New England Carousel Museum, which seems fitting, given the love Stretch had for carousels.

Tickets are $50 each for the dinner, which begins at 2 p.m. in the ballroom following a social hour. Mail orders to the Crocodile Club, c/o the New England Carousel Museum, 95 Riverside Ave, Bristol, CT 06010. For more information, contact the museum, at (860) 585-5411 or download the reservation form on its website at www.thecarouselmuseum.org.

ESPN Traveler Loved South Africa

2010-08-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to Rick Abbott, who is head of global security and facilities for ESPN. That's a pretty big job, but when you think about how he had to figure out how to keep a crew of 350 ESPN employees safe while on location in South Africa for the FIFA World Cup this summer, it's hard to imagine how you'd even go about trying to tackle something like that.

Rick, who is as pleasant in person as he looks in his picture below, made a point of telling me how much he loved his experiences in South Africa. I wrote a story about it for Tuesday's edition of The Bristol Press (http://www.bristolpress.com/).

To keep things secure, he had to deal with the FBI, the CIA and the South African police, not to mention the U.S. State Department and fellow broadcasters from Mexico and England.

Together they worked out a strategy in hopes of keeping any kind of crime at bay, from petty theft to kidnapping and terrorism.

Whatever they did, including keeping police highly visible, worked, as the games ran smoothly.

He traveled to South Africa three times, and for the World Cup, stayed about a month, so he got to know the place.

What he learned from his experiences in South Africa, Rick told me, was that ESPN can do anything. And he didn't say it in a self important way, but more in a respectful realization of the power of an entire company all working together towards the same goal.

ESPN made its coverage of the World Cup one of the company's top three priorities this year. They take this stuff pretty seriously, too. Everyone has a company ID badge and right there are the top three priorities for the year. They're constantly reminded -- often in a fun way -- of the goal.

A little more about South Africa. He said the people were warm and so was the water. The wine? Fabulous. He wants to return, but for a vacation this time, not to work. He said he'll have plenty of friends to visit and places to stay when he gets there.

Larson: Club "Richly Deserved" Federal Help

2010-07-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

U.S. Rep. John Larson

The Bristol Boys and Girls Club "richly deserves" the $1 million in federal aid that Congressman John Larson secured in a housing and transportation appropriations bill Friday, he said.

"They do great work," Larson said.

The East Hartford Democrat pushed for funding for the club, which aims to build a new facility in downtown Bristol in 2013.

Michael Suchopar, who leads the club, said he was honored that Larson chose their project to get behind. He said it's like Larson signed on to the club's "back a kid" fundraiser in a big way.

Suchopar also praised Larson's staff for their diligence. They followed through every time, he said, and once they were on board, didn't let up.

Larson deferred credit to the club. He said the competition for the money is tough and that projects are scrutinized before they get approved.

"We're certainly happy to push it," said Larson, saying the club is "a much needed and well used facility."

Before the club can get the cash, the bill still has to be approved by the U.S. Senate and signed into law by President Obama.

What Wheezy Windbag May Appear at the Croc

2010-07-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure why the story I wrote yesterday for The Bristol Press about Ray Dunaway hosting this year's Crococile Club didn't make it into today's paper.
I think it's pretty interesting news.
It's not on the Press website yet, either, and I'm not supposed to reproduce stories on the blog, so I'll just give you a little bit of it.
Ray Dunaway plays the accordian. He might, and I say MIGHT, mind you, bring his up out of the basement, dust it off and bring it to Lake Compounce for the big event.
That would be sooo cool!
There are places an accordian really fits in, and the Crocodile Club is one of them.
I hope this year's Crocodile Club president (that's you, Ray!) brings his squeezebox to the Starlite Ballroom and favors us all with a tune.
In case you didn't hear, the revived club will meet again this year on Tuesday, Aug. 31. It's a benefit for the New England Carousel Museum and tickets are $50, available through the museum.

Larson Bringing Home $1 Million for Bristol Boys and Girls Club

2010-07-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Tucked in a federal transportation and housing bill passed last night is $1 million for the Bristol Boys and Girls Club's new building.
The club has veteran Congressman John Larson, an East Hartford Democrat who represents Bristol, to thank for that.
Now headquartered in a rundown building on Laurel Street, the club has plans to move to a brand new facility on West Street and is in the middle of raising funds for the project. ESPN already kicked in a sizeable chunk to help buy the land.
Looks like the club, which serves a lot of Bristol kids, many of them from poor families, has some pretty valuable support. That's gratifying to see.
I'll be working on a story about this today for The Bristol Press.

Jonas Brothers vs. ESPN Ticket Info

2010-07-30T04:51:00.000-07:00

In case you're interested but still didn't know: tickets to see the Jonas Brothers play softball against ESPN commentators are free. They're available at the Rock Cats stadium box office in New Britain. There's a limit of six and there are about 6,000 available. I have no idea how many they gave out on the first day, which was Thursday, but if you want them, I suggest you make a beeline for the beehive.
While the tickets are free, if you are going and you can, make a donation. The money goes to the Connecticut Children's Medical Center, and as I understand it, it's designated for caring for patients with cancer and blood disorders -- a pretty worthy cause.
This straight from ESPN: the box office is at 230 John Karbonic Way, New Britain. You can also call (860) 224-8383. Additional event information is available at www.espnradio.com and www.rockcats.com.

Ray Dunaway is Top Crocodilian

2010-07-29T19:49:00.000-07:00

WTIC's morning host, Ray Dunaway, will be the emcee for this year's Crocodile Club on August 31 at Lake Compounce. The Crocodile Club, which is being revived by the New England Carousel Museum as a fundraiser for the museum, is the nation's oldest eating club. The museum is lucky to get Ray, a well-known talk show host with a good following. He's also a fan of the Crocodile Club, having attended for many years before the late Stretch Norton ended the tradition in 2003 with the sad announcement that he could no longer handle the workload of pulling off the party for hundreds.

So Ray knows the history of the event, which helps a lot. He sounded happy and excited about doing it when I talked with him today. He wants it to be a success and so do I.

The Crocodile Club dinner used to be the place to be each summer, drawing politicians of all stripes from all over the state and sometimes beyond. It was a lot of fun and I'm looking forward to its revival.

I wrote about the selection of Ray for Friday's edition of The Bristol Press, so you can see the whole story at http://www.bristolpress.com/.

Jonas Brothers vs. ESPN

2010-07-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

The Jonas Brothers, the Walt Disney boy band shown above, are coming to the Rock Cats stadium in New Britain for a face-off softball game against ESPN.
The game is set for noon on August 13 and tickets are free, said Rosa Gatti, who heads corporate outreach for ESPN.
She said the hope is that people will give donations to the Connecticut Children's Medical Center.
The Jonas Brothers apparently love to play softball and have a team called the Road Dogs, said Gatti. She said they appeared on an ESPN fantasy podcast and when they talked about the Road Dogs, they were challenged to a softball game by ESPN's team, which is called the Goats.
This is definitely going to be something to see.
I will update more on Extra B.S. when I learn how to get tickets and all that. I'll also be writing a story about this today for The Bristol Press, so it should be in Friday's paper.

Count: 31 Unsheltered Homeless in Bristol

2010-07-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

Searchers that went out early this morning found some homeless people and even more evidence that they're sleeping and living outdoors in the Mum City.
The final tally was 31, which is an educated guess, based on the people they spoke with and the stuff they saw -- tents, bins of belongings, even a doghouse. They found that people were living in Rockwell Park, on the railroad tracks, in the woods, in cars and more.
Marge Rivera, a caseworker at The Salvation Army who helped organize the count, guessed they'd find 13-15 people by looking in all the usual places. She said she was a little surprised to find twice that many. She said they were able to interview eight people. That's a lot compared to the three or four people they spoke with over the winter count in 2009.
The local effort searches typical places where homeless people are known to stay. The statewide point in time count, which tries to count all the unsheltered homeless in a single couple of hours, uses a formula that to me, doesn't make much sense, at least in Bristol.
Anyway, that's not what happened today. They looked in all the usual places and found more than they expected.
For the record, the 31 were men and women, no children. At least one veteran. Ages 20 to mid-50s. Three of them will be in the Bristol Emergency Shelter this evening. Others wanted no part of the place.

Gina Newman is the New Zoning Czar

2010-07-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Gina Newman, a Bristol hairdresser and salon manager, is the new chairman of the Bristol Zoning Commission. She's 39, a graduate of St. Paul Catholic High School and a hairdressing academy. She's been on city land use boards as a commissioner or alternate for the better part of a decade and is really excited about taking the reins.
She's taking the job vacated by Frank Johnson, who gave it 20 years before he came to his senses. I hear he's no longer dwelling on dwelling units or muttering phrases like "you need to get a special permit" in his sleep.

Searching for Bristol's Homeless At the Crack of Dawn

2010-07-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

A dedicated bunch of people are getting up early Wednesday and going out searching for people who live on the streets, in the parks, behind the shopping centers and other places homeless people sleep in Bristol.
Marge Rivera, a Salvation Army caseworker who is helping to lead the count, expects to find 13-15 people on the streets.
They're going out from 5-7 a.m., which is even earlier than most chamber of commerce functions.
Unlike the statewide "point in time" count typically done on a cold winter night, this is a local count only, and one done in the early morning, in warm weather.
Besides places where they think people might be sleeping, including under the bridge by Tinty's, inside Rockwell Park and behind several Bristol grocery stores, they'll also be scoping out the coffee and donut places like Dunkin' Donuts and McDonald's to see if they can find anyone there.
I wrote a story about this for Wednesday's edition of The Bristol Press (http://www.bristolpress.com/) and plan to follow up with another story after the count to let you all know what they learned.

Best Wishes to Jennifer Janelle

2010-07-27T17:07:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Janelle, a board member of the Bristol Downtown Development Corp., an environmental attorney and a devotedBristol mother of two, was married over the weekend to her beau Don Arasimowicz.

He was her high school sweetheart (collective "awwww....)

I found out about it from looking at my husband Steve Collin's facebook page. He's facebook friends with Jennifer and that's why I got to see the happy couple posing for the photographer. She was looking stunning and he was looking ... right at her, of course!

I am not on facebook and wouldn't post her photo here if I was, unless she said it was okay.

“He and I dated in high school and after painful divorces, ended up back together” about two years ago, she told me in February for a profile I wrote of her published back then in The Bristol Press. “We’re happy. Things are good.”

It seems that things are even better now.

Congratulations, best wishes and a rose to the happy couple.

Gearing Up For Rockwell and Ride

2010-07-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

Last week, I wrote a story for The Bristol Press about the Rockwell and Ride biking fundraiser for the city's homeless shelters.
The second annual Rockwell & Ride event is set for Sunday, August 29, starting at Rockwell Park.

Phil Lysiak, the executive director of the St. Vincent DePaul Mission of Bristol, said the money raised from the ride will help support the programs at the 25-bed Bristol Emergency Shelter; The Elms, a 13-bed long-term transitional shelter for single men and a 10-unit transitional living center for women with children.
He said fundraisers and donations must make up about 20 percent of the organization’s $1 million annual operating budget.
Last year, 200 riders netted about $8,500 for St. Vincent DePaul. This time, they want to double the ridership with an even better event, hoping to raise $15,000.
This year there will be a post-ride lunch and a DJ playing music and a new road bike raffled off.
Riders will choose from a 25-mile ride, a 50-mile ride and a 75-mile ride that stretches far into Litchfield County near People’s State Forest, said Lysiak. The event isn’t designed to be a competition, but rather a way for people to get out, meet people, have fun and raise money for the shelters.
A “sag wagon” will travel each route to pick up anyone who's too pooped to pedal anymore, or has a busted bike.
Registration has started and can be done online at www.svdpofbristol.com or www.bikereg.com. Entry fees are $30 for ages 16 and older and $15 for ages six through 15.
The story is on the Press website under "business." (http://www.bristolpress.com/.)

Trapped In a Frightened Crowd With No Escape

2010-07-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

One of my fine students at Youth Journalism International (http://www.youthjournalism.org/), Katie Grosser, who lives in Germany, jumped on the story about the tragic death of 19 young people at the Love Parade music festival in her country this weekend.

On deadline, she interviewed two other Germans who were at the festival, translated their words into English and wrote a compelling news story for the world to see. It's online now at http://www.readthetattoo.com/, so check it out.

A new issue of The Tattoo, an independent international teen newspaper that is separate from but very supportive of the 501(c)(3) educational non-profit, Youth Journalism International, showcases Katie Grosser's work and more. It's not completely finished, but it will be on Monday. Don't miss it.

ESPN Baby Helps With Daycare Groundbreaking

2010-07-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

Is this cute or what? Ani, Harper and Steve Levy all helped with the groundbreaking for ESPN's new childcare center on Thursday.

The massive new center, which will open in about a year, is under construction now on Enterprise Drive in 229 Industrial Park.

Steve Levy is an anchor on SportsCenter and Ani, his wife, is an attorney in the healthcare industry. Their sweet baby girl, Harper, is only two months old.

The groundbreaking drew all the big names -- Steve Levy and ESPN President George Bodenheimer being among them -- but little Harper, who never uttered a word, stole the whole show. She was more fun than the kiddie music or the fruit kabobs, that's for sure. She even upstaged Mayor Art Ward, and well, that's saying something.

So who put the baby in the hard hat? That was the brainstorm of ESPN public relations man Josh Krulewitz. It kind of looks to me like she's rapidly outgrowing it.
I wrote about this for Friday's edition of The Bristol Press so more details should be there, at www.bristolpress.com.

YJI Delivers on Acadia, Bastille Day and Brisbane

2010-07-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

Another stellar package from my students at Youth Journalism International is online now at www.ReadTheTattoo.com, an independent, online teen newspaper that wholeheartedly supports YJI.
This time, it's a travel issue, with photos from Bastille Day in Paris from Caroline Nelissen of the Netherlands that are really something and a hometown article about Brisbane, Australia from a local girl, Nancy Hsu, with some photos showing life in that city Down Under. Finally, there's a lot of photos and an article about Acadia, where the Obamas went on vacation last weekend. That one was penned by my son Kiernan. Photos are by him and my daughter, Mary. Apparently wherever my family goes for a getaway becomes so cool that the First Family also wants to check it out the following weekend.
Incidently, my husband Steve Collins and I have been working with young reporters since 1994, long before we had kids. Now that our children are adolescents and taller than we are, to say we've been doing this work since before they were born kind of makes my head spin.
Of course, watching our former students graduate, marry and have children of their own has the same effect.
Check out www.youthjournalism.org for more information on YJI. If you're on facebook, please become a fan of YJI and then you can read all the clever things Steve posts!

Civil War Monument Fund Growing

2010-07-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

The ad-hoc Civil War Monument Committee is still working to raise money to put up a new Civil War monument on Memorial Boulevard. Today I spoke with Tom LaPorte and Peter Imperator, two guys who are dedicating a lot of time to this cause.
They told me that while they still need more donations to complete the project, that things are going really well. Both of them said they're impressed with the generosity of the people of Bristol.
It looks like they might be able to get an even more impressive monument than they'd hoped when they started this effort. They hope to find some donors who can give labor or materials to landscape the area around the monument and maybe put in brick, stone or cement around it.
There is already a Civil War monument in Bristol, in West Cemetery, but committee members say its days are numbered because it is so old and made of brownstone. In any case, the names on the stone are fading and they feel it is important to keep those for all to see.
Look for committee members at the Mum Festival and hand them a few bucks if you can.
I wrote about this in a story for Thursday's edition of The Bristol Press, so look for it at www.bristolpress.com if you want to read more.

For My Readers and Friends, the Lurkers

2010-07-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I get that you aren't commenting on the posts in Extra B.S. Most of the time, I don't even sulk about it. I do know that there are more readers of Extra B.S. than I realize, because every now and then someone tells me they read it and I think, "Really?"
So as a service to my beloved readers (you), I have added a new feature. You can click on a button below a post to indicate that you find the content funny, interesting, cool or deathly boring. I can change those choices, but it's a start.
I don't think you have to register or reveal your secret identity in any way, so hopefully this is a way for me to get some feedback and you to participate while safely continuing to lurk in privacy.

Filmmaker Documents a Bristol Stop on Route 6

2010-07-20T17:23:00.000-07:00

While I've always tried to get my kicks on Route 66, Route 6 has some nice views, too.

The coast-to-coast interstate highway is the second longest in the nation. The longest one is Route 20.

I learned all this from Rachel Carey, a filmmaker with plenty of credentials (Yale and NYU for starters) who is making a documentary about Route 6.

Maybe she just wants an excuse to make a cool road trip, but what the heck. She's going to show us all some sights and sounds along the way.

One of them will be the tick, tock, tick, tock at the American Clock and Watch Museum, one of my favorite spots in Bristol. I bet after she finishes her documentary, this charming little clock museum might become more popular than ESPN.

ESPN, incidently, while not exactly camera shy, is not even close to Route 6 and so they lost out on this one. I hope they can cope with defeat. They're really not used to it.

The filmmaker promised to send me the trailer for the movie when she gets that far along in the project. When I get it, I promise to share. She's being supported, at least morally, if not financially, by the non-profit Route 6 Tourist Association. That's their logo at the top of this post. The clock is, of course, on Maple Avenue in front of the museum. It's also on the museum's website, www.clockandwatchmuseum.org.

Carey was filming today in the clock museum, interviewing Don Muller, the executive director, who was definitely looking his best for the camera. If he ever gets tired of the museum, he might consider going on camera for ESPN, since he can lord it over them that he's in the Route 6 documentary and they're not. The Mark Twain House in Hartford (another awesome Connecticut jewel) also made the director's cut.

This might be a good time to suggest that if you haven't ever visited the clock museum, don't wait to be lured by the Route 6 documentary. Go now. Same deal for the Twain house.

I wrote about all this, of course, for The Bristol Press. I think it might be in Wednesday's paper, but I don't really know. The story has more details about the film and the highway, but none of the 'tude here. When they use it, you can see it at www.bristolpress.com.

Moonshine at Indian Rock

2010-07-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

This is Moonshine, a lovely mustang.

These less-than-awesome photos show her in the new barn at Indian Rock nature preserve. They don't do her justice, of course. She's very pretty, and she's kinda nice. I met her today. She let me say hello and only sort of tried to eat my notebook.

She's the new horse at the preserve and is proudly owned by Lola Boss, the daughter of director Jon Guglietta. He bought the horse for her as a birthday present (wow, thanks, Dad!) and they're using at the Environmental Learning Centers to teach kids about farm animals and driving a horse pulling a wagon.

Lola, who has been helping run the Environmental Learning Centers for quite some time now, is Moonshine's primary trainer.

Moonshine, who is four and arrived in town last fall, isn't any ordinary horse.

First of all, she's a mustang, which isn't that common in Connecticut.

She hails from Nevada and is one of those round-up horses that the government collects and sells at auction. A brand on her neck shows that. A UConn student bought her in 2007 and started the training process and now she's got a happy home in Bristol.

She's living off the largess of the community -- in a barn built with materials donated by the Roberts Foundation, built by Team ESPN. She wears tack provided by a fund at the Main Street Community Foundation.

In return, she's a good natured, smart horse who will no doubt offer a lot of children a rare chance to get to know her and learn about horses.

By the way, she's barefoot, since mustangs have strong legs and hooves and have no need of horseshoes.

I wrote about Moonshine and her escapades for Friday's edition of The Bristol Press, so hopefully you can see the story at www.bristolpress.com.

Pastor at Church St. Matthew Dies in Bermuda

2010-07-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

The Rev. Brian Monnerat, pastor of the Church of St. Matthew, died last night in Bermuda, church members told me. He was on a cruise with family and friends.
Parishioners described a dedicated priest and overall great guy who loved people and the church.
My heart goes out to everyone at St. Matthew. It isn't the first time the parish has lost a young pastor before his time.
Last month, the congregation marked the 11th anniversary of the brutal killing of the Rev. Robert Lysz in the church sanctuary by Michael Ouellette, a mentally troubled man.
Fr. Monnerat was the pastor named to take Fr. Lysz' place after his death in 1999.
I'm working on a story for tomorrow's edition of The Bristol Press about Fr. Monnerat.
My sympathies to St. Matthew's staff and congregation.

The Croc Is Back!

2010-07-14T06:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I wrote a story for today's edition of The Bristol Press about how the New England Carousel Museum is bringing back the wonderful tradition of the Crocodile Club to Lake Compounce.
The "club meetings" were one of the most interesting, fun and charming events I discovered after moving to Connecticut in 1993 to work for the Press. I loved going to the Crocodile Club and attended every year. I even went while on maternity leave, bringing my infant son. I think he should be on record in Stretch Norton's book as the youngest Crocodilian!
Anyway, it's a great tradition. I will miss the late, great Stretch Norton, because he and the club were interchangeable in my mind. But Stretch had a lot of support to pull off the party every year, so I've no doubt some of them will lend a hand to make it happen this year. It's hard to imagine it going on without him, but then again, it's a very cool legacy for Stretch to have. I'm sure the museum will do everything it can to make sure his presence is felt.
The photo above is an old one of the Casino at Lake Compounce, where the Crocodile Club always meets. Jerry Brick, the general manager of the park, is donating the Starlite Ballroom and furnishings and Dave and Mike Pasqualicchio at Nuchie's are handling the traditional meal of barbecued lamb, potatoes, sweet potatoes, sliced tomatoes, watermelon and a beer.
Louise DeMars at the museum tells me that Tom Barnes has the secret corn recipe (how did he get that???) and that Jack Driscoll is in charge of cigars, so it seems they're on track for a wonderful time.
So mark your calendars for August 31. Tickets are $50 and are available from the museum, or on its website: www.thecarouselmuseum.org.

Rain Postpones Reunion Jazz Band Concert

2010-07-13T13:16:00.000-07:00

The concert in Brackett Park set for tonight -- a performance by the Bristol Reunion Jazz Band -- is postponed because of the rain.
The band, playing jazz and swing favorites, will instead take the stage on Thursday at 7 p.m. in Brackett Park.
This band never disappoints, so get there early and bring a lawn chair!

For Peace of Mind, ESPN Wants a Piece of Road

2010-07-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

ESPN is asking the city for a portion of Ronzo Road. It's the part that starts after the Locknetics driveway and runs only to ESPN buildings and parking lots.

The company owns the land on both sides of the road and wants the piece of public road to improve employee safety and security on its sprawling campus.

ESPN first raised the issue with Mayor Art Ward in early June, Mike Soltys, an ESPN executive told me.

City councilors will consider the request at their meeting Tuesday night.

The diagram at the top of this post is part of the paperwork ESPN filed with the city in hopes of getting the piece of the road.

I wrote about this for Tuesday's edition of The Bristol Press, so if you want more info, check it out at http://www.bristolpress.com/.

More New Jobs at ESPN's Bristol Headquarters

2010-07-08T18:25:00.001-07:00

ESPN is moving its publication ESPN The Magazine to Bristol, the company said today.
The move will take place next year, according to ESPN Vice President Mike Soltys.
That's means 125 jobs moving to the Mum City. It's likely that there will be openings for at least some of them.
That's excellent news for Bristol and for Connecticut.
I didn't write about this today for The Bristol Press. I'm off for a couple of days and I have to draw the line somewhere. But for my loyal Extra B.S. readers, well, I had to offer a little bit.
I'll be sure to return to the story when I'm back at work next week.

Really? Seth Meyers? Really!

2010-07-07T13:51:00.000-07:00

Seth Meyers, probably my favorite TV journalist since we lost Uncle Walter, is hosting the ESPY awards next week.
Meyers, host of Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update," and a key writer for SNL, is shown in this recent ESPN photo checking out the sports media giant's 3D programming.
Today I had a chance to chat ever so briefly with Meyers, who completely turned on the charm when he learned I worked at the Press.
I asked if he would visit Bristol and he told me, much to my chagrin, that he was here recently to do what ESPN types call the "Bristol car wash," or taping appearances on about 10 shows in rapid succession.
Of course, he loved the Mum City.
"It was amazing," Meyers told me. "It really is the Manhattan of Connecticut."
While in town, he did "everything," Meyers said. "I was there for two hours."
Given his brief window in Bristol, I could tell he'd missed the highlights, though, so I made him promise to let me know the next time he comes to town so I could properly show him around.
He said that was a good idea, since ESPN had clearly given him a "bum tour."

BCO Not Hosting Free Breakfast, Lunch After All

2010-07-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

Kids, don't head to BCO for your free summer breakfast or lunch this year. The non-profit organization, which does a lot for local elderly, poor and handicapped residents, had been named as an open site for the summer lunch program.

But Tom Morrow, the director of BCO, said today that for some reason BCO wasn't site certified so it won't be a place to get breakfast or lunch. Instead, kids can go to Rockwell Park or Cambridge Park for their summertime meals.

No registration or proof of income is required. Any child or teenager 18 and under can go and get a meal.

This Is The Surface of the Sun

2010-07-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

And you thought it was just outside your door....
For anyone who is having trouble with the heat, head over to the senior center on Stafford Avenue, which is open from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. through Friday to offer a free, cool spot to chill.
You can also hit one of the city's two outdoor public pools -- in Rockwell and Page parks -- or one of the city's three spray/splash pools, which are really like big, fun, colorful sprinkers. They're in Rockwell and Page parks, closing at and at Stocks Playground.
Swimming pools close at 7 at Rockwell, 8 at Page. Sprinkers are off at 6 p.m. at Stocks and at 6:45 at the other two parks.
Don't forget your friendly local libraries. They're nice places to beat the heat as well.

Senior Center is City's Cool Down Spot

2010-07-06T08:27:00.001-07:00

The Beals Senior and Community Center on Stafford Avenue will be the city's official public place to cool down in the heat this week.

Hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Stay tuned for more details.

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July to all! I hope all the readers of Extra B.S. will enjoy this day with those they love. I also hope you pause a moment to appreciate our wonderful country, its rich history and its promising future.

Plaza Wants Farmers to Have Massive Insurance Policy to Sell Veggies

2010-07-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

The city's farmers' market is moving out of downtown to Route 6 in the Bristol Commons, the plaza with Price Chopper as the anchor.
At least that's the verbal agreement the farmers have with the plaza owners, but it's only for one date -- next Wednesday, July 7.
The plaza owners, who operate out of New York, told the farmers they weren't satisfied with the $2 million insurance policy the farmers had. They wanted ANOTHER $5 million on top of that.
Farmer Ray Lemaire said that's ridiculous -- they're not shooting rockets, they're selling tomatoes, he told me.
So without the extra insurance, the farmers are set for one day. We'll probably learn next week whether the move is for the season or just for one day.
I wrote about this today for The Bristol Press (http://www.bristolpress.com/). It will probably run sometime over the weekend, so if you want to read more, check out the newspaper or its website.

Fireworks For the City's 225th Anniversary

2010-07-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to report that the city will have fireworks as part of its birthday celebration this year after all.

The display will be Sunday, August 15, with a rain date set for Sunday, Aug. 22

Fireworks will be set off from Perkins Street property owned by Jarre and Whit Betts. High on Chippens Hill, the display will be seen for miles.

I wrote about this for Friday's edition of The Bristol Press (www.bristolpress.com), so if you'd like more details, check it out there.

p.s. If you want to see fireworks for the Fourth of July, the closest ones to Bristol are at Lake Compounce.

Locknetics Workers Will Get Federal Help

2010-07-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

Federal stimulus money will be available to the more than 100 displaced Locknetics workers who will be losing their jobs this year.

The company, bought in 2000 by Ingersoll Rand, is closing the Bristol factory, leaving about 110 people out of work.

Pink slips were supposed to start as early as this month. The place is set to be closed by the end of the year.

Nothing can really make being unemployed a good experience, but hopefully the federal aid will make it at least a little less painful and help people more quickly get back on their feet.

I wrote about this for Friday's edition of The Bristol Press (www.bristolpress.com.)

In the Wake of DOT Commissioner Joe Marie

2010-07-01T11:55:00.000-07:00

State Transportation Commissioner Joe Marie, a staunch proponent of the nine-mile, $600 million, New Britian-Hartford busway, is gone.

An interesting story on the front page of today's Hartford Courant (www.courant.com) tells the tale with a few juicy details, but I'm sure there is much more to it than that. Marie leaving now is especially intriguing given that Marie would certainly have been a goner anyway when Gov. Jodi Rell departs early next year and a new governor takes her place. What was the rush to dump him now?

Of more interest locally, I'm wondering what it means for mass transit in Connecticut, especially in our little corner.

Extra B.S. By the Numbers

2010-06-29T20:06:00.001-07:00

Time to take stock.
Six months of blogging.
More than 200 posts.
50 comments, if my tired eyes are counting correctly. At least 24 of them are my own comments, mostly responding to what readers wrote.
Is it all just Extra B.S.?
Blogger King Steve got eight comments on the Bristol Blog just tonight, after his City Hall meeting, that lucky devil. He approved all of them, in case you're curious. Extra B.S. readers are ... shy. Bristol Blog readers? Not so much.

The Latest Word on the West End

2010-06-28T05:55:00.001-07:00

Bristol is lucky to have a city planner like Alan Weiner. He's smart and hardworking and advocates for the city. He's been at it a long time and rarely gets a pat on the back, but I believe he deserves one.
One of the things I like best about Alan is that he takes the long view (that's the planner in him) and has a fair amount of patience. He also says what he thinks is right, even if it's not the popular point of view. That's what I respect about him.
He's been tirelessly pushing for a renewal of the West End, which is not hte city's most popular neighborhood. It's struggling, but I agree with Alan that there's a lot of potential in the West End.

I went to the last meeting on the West End study last week. The Bristol Community Organization hosted it and about 20 people showed up to add their two cents before the final draft of the study is finished.
Whether the study sits on a shelf and gathers dust or becomes the blueprint for an active neighborhood makeover remains to be seen.

As Alan correctly pointed out to the people at that meeting, though city officials play an important role in determining whether the West End gets government funding, a lot can be accomplished by residents, property owners and business owners who have a stake in the neighborhood's future.
There's been a lot of talk about forming a neighborhood association, and that certainly needs no government action to occur. Look no further than my pals at the Forestville Village Association for inspiration on that front.

It makes a whole lot more sense to get to work on the West End rather than sit back and anonymously trash it, which seems to be a popular online sport in Bristol.

One Strong Girl

2010-06-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

Here's Jenna Chiaradio, who will turn 16 next month. She's a rising junior at Bristol Eastern High School, a top student, a second-degree black belt in karate and a boxer.

She's quite a lovely girl. I talked with Jenna today about how she got into boxing and about a fight she'll be in tomorrow night at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

Her fight will be one of several that night, part of an event called "Fight the Good Fight" to benefit the families of the men who died at the Kleen Energy plant in Middletown earlier this year.
I wrote a story about Jenna for Saturday's edition of The Bristol Press (www.bristolpress.com) so you can read more about her there if you like.

You Think You Know a Guy...

2010-06-24T04:18:00.000-07:00

Morrie Laviero's garden, above

John Leone's garden, above

Yesterday I covered the beautification awards breakfast and annual state of the city address by the mayor and officials from surrounding towns. (I know, I know, you're thinking... how in the world does she get such plum assignments?)

Anyway, the beautification award had a new category this year... at least I didn't remember it from before. It's an award for best vegetable garden, preferably grown from seed.

I was intrigued.

Reading on, I was surprised. The first place award went to John Leone, a former mayor and former chamber president. Honorable mention went to contractor Morrie Laviero.

I understand that mayors and contractors can make their own schedule, but it seems that chamber directors are so busy wheeling and dealing and pushing and prodding that it's not likely they've got time for a demanding hobby like gardening, let alone be able to create a prizewinning garden.

But there it was, in black and white. Leone won.

Contest judge Bill Englert said they thought they were in Little Italy when they went to visit Leone and Laviero's gardens on Maureen Drive, with all the peppers, tomatoes, grape arbors and the like.

But starting from seeds? Who does that?

Apparently these guys do. Leone told me he starts the seeds in February and that in the end, his whole neighborhood helps out. Laviero is one of his neighbors, but I'm not sure if he lends a hand since his own garden is so impressive.

Thanks to Bill Englert and his granddaughter, who snapped the photos, and the chamber, for passing them on.

You can see the story I wrote about the Leone-Laviero food fight in The Bristol Press, along with the list of winners: www.bristolpress.com.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Here's to all dedicated fathers, the ones who are kind and compassionate but firm, the ones who lead by example.

The value of a father in a child's life is immeasurable. I've seen firsthand the pain of daughters and sons who are missing this valuable piece from their lives.

So I offer thanks to all the fathers who are there for their children, but especially for three who are especially dear to me.

Growing up, I had a great father. He worked hard, provided for our family and I always knew he loved me. Among many other qualities, he was artistic, working with clay, wood and plant to create and grow wonderful things. I lost him too soon in 2001. The picture is from "High Noon," one of his favorites.

My father-in-law, who is like a father to me, is also wonderful. He also knows his way around the house and garden and is one of the best shoppers I know. He gives great advice and we're lucky to have him playing an involved and active roles in our lives.

Finally, the best father I know is my husband, Steve. Our family is richly blessed to have him.

Watching the World Cup?

2010-06-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

I watched some of the World Cup last week at ESPN, but I never did blog about it. There was a story in The Bristol Press about ESPN venturing into 3D.
Currently, not many people have 3D -- about 100,000, ESPN folks said -- but they've never been ones to wait to see which way the wind is blowing.
Nope, ESPN creates its own wind and takes the culture along with it. They've got a lot of smart people over there and if they think 3D is the next big thing, well, then, I'm inclined to believe them.
As someone who watches very little television, I'm probably not the best person to evaluate 3D. But there I was, and I agree, it can be eye-popping. I didn't like wearing an extra set of glasses, though, and between the vision thing and the buzzing of the vuvuzelas, I got a headache. If you haven't heard them yet, listening to a World Cup match is like being inside a hornet's nest. AAAAGGGH! Get me out of there!
Chuck Pagano, ESPN's top technology guy, told me he watches with the mute function on. Smart guy, that Chuck.

A Lesson in Compassion

2010-06-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

Today I went out to see the action the city was taking on blighted property on Marine Court. These are pictures from today, and a story should be in Friday's edition of The Bristol Press, http://www.bristolpress.com/.
If you want a little more perspective, read on.
These photos are of property on Marine Court owned by Francis Kerr. On Thursday morning, the city called in an emergency contractor -- D'Amato -- to clear a nearly vacant (except for the debris) plot of land owned by Kerr. The city is in court with Kerr over his house, which is shown in the top photo. The bottom photo is of the sort-of vacant land. It has a garage that is falling down (with a car of some sort inside) and what amounts to a bunch of junk all around -- rusty barrels, the frame of a big old wagon and a stack of tires.
I am not a fastidious person but I can say that Kerr's place is a mess.
The trouble is, he apparently likes it that way.
Some neighbors have complained bitterly to the city. They worry about declining home values, pests that might be attracted to the debris and also about some of the mess falling into their yards.
Mostly, the neighbors don't want to be quoted. They're leery of Kerr, who keeps to himself and has signs posted around the perimeter of his property warning people to stay away.
But those who know him say he's a very smart man, someone who isn't violent or dangerous. The Kozikowski family, Kerr's next door neighbors -- who might have the most reason to gripe -- say they like him and have learned to live with the way he keeps the property.
Kerr apparently doesn't have a phone and I've never spoken to him. My heart does go out to him, though. He's a Vietnam vet whose parents have died. He has no siblings, spouse or children. And the city he's lived in all his life is after him. He could face jail on violations of health laws if he doesn't clean up his house. Mayor Art Ward said Kerr has been found incompetent.
Certainly it's not fair to the neighborhood for the city to do nothing. This has been a blight problem in Bristol for almost 20 years. And when buildings are falling down, as the garage on Kerr's lot is, it is dangerous. The city has to act on that.
Those who know Kerr say he doesn't want any help and refuses medication. I don't know what the answer is, but it doesn't seem right to me to throw him in jail for what amounts to being a serious packrat. I truly hope it doesn't come to that.

Zoning Buddies

2010-06-17T15:10:00.000-07:00

I met a couple of real nice gents at the Bristol Zoning Commission meeting Wednesday. These two guys, Richard Chapman and Pete Roseen, showed up out of concern for the project on the corner of Middle Street and Mountain Road.
They were quite dedicated, as they waited nearly four hours to have a chance to speak about the proposal.
Quite a few newcomers were on the zoning board that night, and things weren't exactly speedy. Former Chairman Frank Johnson and former Vice Chairman John Lodovico, who had both been on the board since Moby Dick was a sardine, recently stepped down as their terms ended. They're still active in a lot of community stuff, most visibly the Bristol Downtown Development Corp.
But let's get back to my new zoning pals. These are guys after my own heart. They patiently sat through long presentations on a couple of other projects, including testimony by the ever-riveting traffic engineers.
Mr. Roseen, who said the meeting was going on WAY past his bedtime, told me it was "like watching grass grow."
Mr. Chapman, whose daughter, Patty Chapman, recently retired from the city treasurer's office, is a former state police officer who has seen his share of ugly.
"Autopsies are more fun," he said, than zoning meetings.
I couldn't resist asking them if this experience didn't make them appreciate newspaper reporters just a little bit more.
It did, they said.
After that, I shared my candy with them, making it a better evening all around.

Job Cuts at Bristol Hospital

2010-06-16T13:06:00.001-07:00

I just confirmed what I learned earlier today... that 19 positions were eliminated at Bristol Hospital on Tuesday. A few of the people who filled those jobs were offered alternative work at the hospital, but it isn't clear now how many will make the move.
In the end, at least 14 people, maybe more, who had jobs at the hospital will no longer be working there.
Hospital President Kurt Barwis told me that it was extremely difficult to let members of the staff go, but that the restructuring and consolidation was important for the ultimate survival and growth of the hospital.
Still, it's a sad tale to tell. I'm working on the story now, and it should appear in Thursday's edition of The Bristol Press and online at www.bristolpress.com.

Happy Graduation Day!

2010-06-16T06:57:00.000-07:00

It's Graduation Day in Bristol, as hundreds of seniors from Bristol Eastern High School, Bristol Central High School and Bristol Tech receive their diplomas after years of hard work.

I'd like to extend my own congratulations and good wishes to all the graduates. High school can be a challenge in many ways, and finishing it is an accomplishment that should bring gradutes and their families a strong sense of pride and satisfaction.

I hope the weather holds out, but even if it doesn't, nothing should dampen your spirits if today is the day you'll get that diploma.

Carpe diem!

YJI's World Cup Coverage

2010-06-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest World Cup coverage by my student reporters at Youth Journalism International. We've got three students in South Africa -- one who lives in Singapore who is visiting, and two who live there. They've been doing their best to write about the impact of the World Cup on their nation. Meanwhile, other kids in the U.S. and Europe are weighing in with their own perspectives. You can see it all online now at www.ReadTheTattoo.com, an independent online teen newspaper that supports YJI.
The coverage isn't limited to the World Cup, either, so if soccer isn't your bag, you'll find plenty more of interest.

Free Meals for Kids

2010-06-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Summer lunch and breakfast programs are starting soon. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the program offers free breakfast and lunch to children in poor neighborhoods.

This summer it starts July 6 and runs through August 20.

There are three open sites in Bristol -- at Rockwell Park, at Cambridge Park and at the Bristol Community Organization. Any kid who is 18 or under can go, regardless of income becuase the sites are certified. They can't take the food off the premises.

I think the program would be quite a hit if they could offer the kids sandwiches that look like these...

Request for Help Still High

2010-06-15T14:29:00.000-07:00

Today I wrote about the requests for help -- energy assistance, groceries and meals -- continuing to remain high at local food pantries, soup kitchens and at the Bristol Community Organization, which administers help with heating bills.

Check out the stories in Wednesday's edition of The Bristol Press at http://www.bristolpress.com/.

Time Flies

2010-06-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

What were you doing 17 years ago today?

Me, I was starting a new job as a reporter at The Bristol Press.

Former Press Editor Frank Keegan hired me all those years ago and I had the pleasure of working for him for a year before he moved on. I still miss Frank, and our former Publisher Joe Zerbey. They both know and love newspapers and they also knew and loved Bristol. They were also a hoot, but that's another story.

My first day on the job, I wrote a story about some guy catching a big fish in the Pequabuck River, behind Tinty's.

I didn't know how to pronounce Pequabuck, or what Tinty's was and I had no idea why just catching a fish was such a big deal.

Now I know that in 1993, a big fish did indeed show that the river was alive -- something a lot of people doubted back then after so many years of it being a polluted mess. I learned how to pronounce and spell Pequabuck, a river I'm still writing about.

Since then, I've written about people, places and events in the community or of interest to it. I've told stories both joyously happy and deeply sad, some outrageous, others ridiculous. I've met and gotten to know a lot of wonderful, kind, committed and generous people in the Mum City over the years. To all of them, I'd like to say thank you.

Fly It With Pride

2010-06-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Flag Day!
Flag Day always reminds me of my dad, so it makes me feel good.
If you have a way to fly Old Glory today, do it.
But if your flag is tattered, torn, faded or worn, please dispose of it properly. There are rules for how to do it correctly. If you don't know how, give your flag to the American Legion, and they'll do it respectfully.
Just don't keep flying it or letting it hang off of your house. It's just wrong to display our flag if it is in poor shape (except for special circumstances that do not include laziness.) That's just shameful and sad.
Please, if you're going to display our flag, do it with pride.