1. Art and Diseño

The Hampton
GAZETTE
Volume XXXVIII No 1
February 2015
2015 Citizen of the Year: Fred Curry
Dayna McDermott
Mention the name and you’ll immediately trigger recognition – perhaps through an encounter at the post office, or in a
theatrical performance, or at the Congregational Church, or
during the Memorial Day Parade, or an activity of the senior
citizens. Whatever the venue, those who have met him share a
mutual response: Fred Curry is the very personification of
friendliness, with an effervescent spirit, wonderful sense of
humor, and genuine enthusiasm for life in general, and Hampton specifically.
Fred has contributed to our town for over five decades in
myriad ways, though most of us associate him with the Hampton Seniors, a
group Fred founded in 1992; nearly
two dozen years later, he remains the
driving force behind the club’s continued success in bringing senior citizens
together for monthly luncheons, social
gatherings, seasonal excursions, special
presentations and informational meetings on topics that impact them.
“Fred is always working to help us
and to come up with new ideas for us,”
says Peggy Fox. “He keeps us going,
and we’re grateful to have him.”
When the building that housed the
Consolidated School was renovated
into the Town Hall, Fred, then a member of the Republican Town Committee, worked with First Selectman Walt
Stone on a grant to dedicate and equip
a room where senior citizens could
gather. We all benefit from that space
now, which serves as the polling place
for our voting events and the venue for many of the town’s
meetings. On the second Wednesday of the month, it’s reserved for our revered elders and their social gatherings.
Fred and Sylvia Curry came to Hampton in 1958 when
Fred was offered a position at the University of Connecticut’s
Media Center, and televised the very first UCONN basketball
games. Born and raised in Rhode Island and schooled there and
in New Hampshire, Fred cultivated a love for sailing and skiing
which he never left entirely behind. While their four sons, Stephen, Keith, David and Tom, inherited Fred’s athletic prowess,
other children benefitted as well.
“He was my little league coach,” says son Tom, who recounts how, in spite of opposition from other leagues, Fred
allowed girls on his baseball team and ensured that everyone
played, describing an instance when one girl on the team who
was left handed only had a right handed glove. “He knew exactly where to put her -- first base.”
Just recently, Tom recalls, a member of his cross country
team, and the coach, remembered his father’s words of encouragement forty years ago: “Start fast, run like hell and finish
with a kick”, advice I heard often, says Tom.
“It's because of him my brothers and I learned to ski, sail,
golf, and hike, particularly in the White Mountains of New
Hampshire,” says son Stephen.
“Lifelong activities we still enjoy today.”
Adventure was never far from the Curry’s household.
“There’s a six foot long sled still in
Dad’s garage that he used to drag us on
when there was enough snow on the
road,” Stephen recalls. “That same sled
was used as a missile that we aimed
down Hammond Hill to go as fast as we
could.” (See related article page 9!) “It
bears a dented front end from a brother
who shall remain unnamed (but easily
guessed) as he bailed just prior to hitting something very hard and immovable.”
“I guess while learning to drive at ten,
or sailing in a gale, or getting towed
behind the car on a sled, I always had
confidence in Dad,” says son David,
“and wanted to be like him.”
While those who’ve only known Fred
in his later years might be amazed to
learn of his death defying feats, no one should be surprised by
another distinction: president of his high school debating team,
where he cultivated that magnificent voice, used in radio and
televised programs and shared with us on Hampton’s stage.
Our town was first introduced to Fred’s theatrical talents
through the Hampton Community Players, where he performed
starring roles in all of the group’s musicals.
“Fred and I played the male and female leads in the musicals,” says Eleni Yanouzas. “He was always so enjoyable!”
continued on page 12
Dear Readers,
The Gazette welcomes to our editorial board new members
Jan Leitch and Jimmy Halloran. Jan and her paintings have been
featured in the Gazette as part of Brian Tracy’s series on local
artists, introducing her considerable artistry to our readers. Jimmy,
active in local politics these last few years, has written a number
of articles encouraging our readers to support local enterprises.
We look forward to their future contributions.
Welcome, Jan and Jimmy
Dayna McDermott
Editor
Board of Directors
Chairman/Advertising
Juan Arriola
Vice Chairman
Margaret Haraghey
Treasurer
Jimmy Halloran
Secretary
Diane Meade
Advertising Asst.
Brian Tracy
Production/Webmaster
Cindy Bezanson
Pat Cascio
Jan Leitch
Pete Vertefeuille
Photographer
The Hampton Gazette is published monthly. It is a non-profit 501(c)3
venture, registered with the State of CT and the IRS and supported by
advertising revenues and contributions. Contributions to the Hampton
Gazette are tax deductible.
CONTACT INFORMATION
EDITORIAL: Editorials, articles, information, calendar events, releases,
or questions should be mailed to Editor, Hampton Gazette, PO Box 101,
Hampton, CT 06247 or emailed to [email protected] or
phoned to Dayna McDermott at 860 455-0160 by the deadline listed
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reserves the right to reject submissions.
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NEXT DEADLINE
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Letters to the Editor
Auntie Mac's Agony Column
Dear Hampton Chickabiddies:
It is I, your Auntie Macassar, having just returned from an
extended but exhilarating dogsledding trip through the Yukon
Territories with my faithful assistant Lars. As many of you know,
I'm a near-lifelong resident of Hampton and related in some form
or other to many of the older families in town, even though these
days I'm rarely seen and live in one of those very secluded spots
to which the faint of heart dare not venture. After serving for nearly 25 years as the Overseas Advice Columnist for Congressional
delegates, Olympic hopefuls, and boy bands, I finally descended
from those dizzying heights to begin a much-needed retirement in
the bosom of my Hampton family. I soon discovered, however,
that life in my sleepy hometown is as much fraught with intrigue,
family complications, matters of the heart, and breaches of etiquette as anything I ever saw on a Beastie Boys tour or a Ted
Kennedy junket.
So when the darling girls at the Gazette asked me if I would
reprise my role as advice columnist for my fellow Hamptonites,
how could I resist the siren song of quandary and dilemma?
For any of you who are seeking answers to persistent and
troubling questions regarding social, political, ethical, farcical or
nautical matters, please feel free to send questions to me, your
Auntie Mac, care of the Gazette. For propriety's sake, I wouldn't
dream of using your real name, so by all means you may use an
alias (Ted's favorite was "Cuddle Bunny," but there I go, telling
tales.)
Adieu my dears. Until next month I remain
Faithfully,
Auntie Mac
Give Me a Break -- It’s Wintertime!
No matter where we live in the area of the 42nd latitude,
when winter comes along, we can count on having snowstorms.
That’s to be expected, unless you are one of those folks that can
fly off to some tropical climate zone to spend the winter -- then
you have no worries. But here in New England, we get plenty of
snowfall and have to deal with it. The key phrase is, “deal with
it!” You’re not going to escape natural occurrences like snow and
ice and very cold weather.
We’ve got it easy compared to the old days. If you’re too
young to remember, let me enlighten you. During the years that I
was just a lad (I’m in my eighth decade now) we had lots of snow
to deal with, and nothing was easy back then. We weren’t expecting the instant gratification of perfectly clean roads directly after
storms. Oftentimes it took many days before roads were free of
snow and ice. State highway departments and town crews alike
Letters continued on page 12
Page 2
The Hampton GAZETTE
February 2015
Coming to Hampton
Jack Scarangella: Living the Dream
Sue Martin
Sitting in my kitchen sipping coffee with Jack Scarangella, aka
"Scrapper", arguably the most consummate drummer of my generation, was like a dream. Jack is a relative newcomer to Hampton, having only lived here for a year or so, but what a story he has to tell. He
talks about looking back over his long musical career -- did he really
know those people? Did he really play with all those musicians? It
seems like a dream; but it's not.
After attending a concert at Memorial Stadium in New York,
Jack knew exactly what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. At age
11 he met his mentor, Buddy Rich. Running up to Buddy after the
concert he said, "I want to play drums just like you". Then the most
amazing thing happened: world famous, world renowned, Zen master
phenomenon, American legend, Buddy Rich, took the young boy,
Jack from the Bronx, under his wing. He encouraged him, taught him,
inspired him, and showed him the
love of a surrogate father. Jack
soaked it all up, he listened, he
learned, he worked hard. Buddy
taught him to play all styles of music;
Jack learned to listen and play to the
song. Buddy helped to hone Jack’s
natural God given gift, he taught him
to be a professional, give it everything you've got, all the time, every
time. A bit of wisdom Buddy imparted to his young protégé was to play
to the guy at the back of the house,
the guy who can't afford front row
tickets, the guy who is working two
or three jobs to get by, the guy who is
taking care of his family. Buddy said,
"You play to that guy Jack, he's there
every night".
Jack came to our area originally back in the 70’s when he was
the drummer for the Fabulous Rhinestones -- Kal David, Harvey
Brooks, Marty Grebb and Jack played the East Coast, the West Coast
and everywhere in between, but they always looked forward to coming back to their favorite place, the Shaboo Inn. While there he met
and played with the people who would become lifelong friends,
brothers and sisters. He would collaborate on many different projects
with the musicians he met at the "Boo", D.A. "Lefty" Foster, Charles
Calamese, James Cotton, James Montgomery, Muddy Waters, among
many others. A few years passed and his brother, Dr. Stephen Scarangella, took a position at WCMH. Jack’s mom Amy, his biggest fan,
now lives in the area as well. How did Jack come to Hampton? Music, friends and family brought him to our little town.
As a boy Jack was introduced to Yankee Stadium by Frankie
Frisch, manager of the Gashouse Gang St. Louis Cardinals, 1934
World Series Champs, and Hall-of-Famer. Mr. Frisch would come
over to Jack’s house to visit with his Dad who was with Social Security then; they were older and would go over their benefits. During
one of his visits he said he was in town to make an appearance at an
old timers’ game at Yankee Stadium and asked if he could take little
Jackie along with him. His Dad was going nuts -- this was Yankee
Stadium after all -- it was beyond comprehension to him. Jack was
nine at the time, he didn't really understand what was going on, but he
knew he loved baseball and thought, wow, the Yankees, to him they
were larger than life. Because he was with Mr. Frisch, he was able to
go right into the locker room. Satchel Page himself took Jackie down
February 2015
to the dugout. They sat and watched the game with Roy Campanella.
That was Jack’s first introduction to athletic stars. He would go on to
become close friends with many greats from the sports world including one of his best friends, Joe Namath, who is featured on his CD
"The Hero in Us All".
Throughout the years Jack has played his heart out all over the
United States, touring with Richie Havens, playing with Blood Sweat
and Tears, The Shaboo All-Stars, and The Little Rascals. He sat in
with Chuck Berry, Tower of Power, B.B. King, Bruce Springsteen,
Dizzy Gillespie, Pete Townsend, Keith Richards, Ray Charles and…
well, everyone! He's played at the famous Whiskey a Go-Go, The
Blue Note, and every dive bar in between. He paid his dues.
In 2005 Jack released "The Hero in Us All", a compilation of
rock, jazz and blues. Friends from the music world, famous athletes,
less famous friends, and fans came together to celebrate music and
love. Twenty-one uplifting tracks, some of the greatest music ever
recorded on one CD. Killer guitar riffs, soaring horn sections, pounding drums, this CD is a must listen.
This is the music that has defined
American culture for the last 70 years
or so; it's a never-ending tale of creativity and talent. This CD will astonish you when you read the credits:
Bernie Williams on Lead Guitar, Willie Randolph and Paul O'Neill on percussion, Vocals by Ron Guidry, Don
Mattingly and Joe Namath? Is this
music or sports? As Jack says, "We're
all one team". Recording this CD was
Jack’s “Field of Dreams”.
Jack’s newest CD, "Sacred Angel” (Scarangella in Italian) is his
latest project. Co-Produced by Jack
and Hampton’s own Renee Cuprak,
released this fall, it features some of
the talented musicians who played at
the Hampton Community Center this past June to help raise money
for the Hampton Fuel Fund. “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” includes a five
minute drum solo recorded live at the Community Center that
brought the house down. With this CD Jack helped fulfill the dreams
of a woman he met many years ago, Shannon Wayne. Her greatest
desire in life was to become an accomplished musician; she died very
young and never realized her dream, until now. A few old recordings
were found, cleaned up a bit and now two songs, guitar and vocals by
Shannon, are featured on “Sacred Angel”. Native American group
"Northern Lights," Christine Ohlman, David Foster, Jimmy Biggins,
Mitch Chakour, newcomer Alicia Chakour, and of course Jack on
drums, are all featured on this new CD along with many others. This
was a labor of love for Jack, his celebration of life and music, his
way of giving back, paying it forward.
Having played with the biggest names in music, he never forgot
his roots. Jack can be seen (and heard) playing at the Hungry Tiger in
Manchester and at Chacers in Norwich most every week with all the
new and old friends he has made along the way. He is inspiring to
watch and a thrill to hear.
What could possibly be next? Jack has had an amazing life and
musical career. So many stories to tell -- what a wonderful adventure
his life has been -- I'm sure that there is much more to come from this
remarkable gentleman. Richie Havens said it best, “Power, vision,
passion, reverence and love. All of this is Jack, my friend.”
Both CD's, "The Hero in Us All" and "Sacred Angel" are
available at Cdbaby.com.
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 3
Ups and Downs in Hampton
Calendar
Saturday, 12/31
5:30 Soup-7:00 pm Films
Sunday, 2/1
1:00 to 3:00 pm
Monday, 2/2
7:30 pm
Tuesday, 2/3
7:00 pm
Thursday, 2/5
3:00 pm
Monday, 2/9
7:00 pm
Tuesday, 2/10
7:00 pm
Wednesday, 2/11
6:30 pm
Wednesday, 2/11
7:00 pm
Saturday, 2/14
7:30 pm
Sunday, 2/22
2:00 pm
Monday, 2/23
7:00 pm
Tuesday, 2/24
6:30 pm
Tuesday, 2/24
7:00 pm
Wednesday, 2/25
6:30 pm
Thursday, 2/26
7:30 pm
Soup & Silent Films
Hampton Congregational Church
Super Bowl Grinder Sale
Hampton Community Center
Board of Selectmen Meeting
Town Hall Community Room
Inlands Wetlands Commission
Town Hall Commission Room
Library Board Meeting
Fletcher Memorial Library
Republican Town Committee
Town Hall Conference Room
Board of Finance Meeting
Town Hall Community Room
Board of Education Meeting
HES Library
Green Energy Committee Meeting
Town Hall Conference Room
Little River Music Series: Valentine's
Day Dance: Gary & the Pineapples
Hampton Community Center
Stroll, Story, Stew & Song Trail Wood
Winter Fundraiser
Hampton Community Center
Planning & Zoning Commission
Town Hall Community Room
Hampton/Scotland School Readiness
Scotland Elementary School
Conservation Commission Meeting
Town Hall Community Room
Board of Education Meeting
HES Library
Rec & Community Meeting
Town Hall Community Room
In Loving Memory
of Charles M. Halbach
September 8, 1919 – April 13, 2008
Gone are the days we used to share,
But in my heart you are always there.
Forever,
Marion
Thumbs Up: to Hampton’s youth for remembering our elders
during the holidays in memorable ways. Hampton Elementary
School students invited seniors to a special luncheon and presentation at the school, and Parish Hill’s Junior High Chorus serenaded seniors with Christmas carols at their homes, creating special
memories for all generations.
Thumbs Down: to the litter recently discovered on one of our
town’s hiking trails. It’s unfortunate enough that trash collects on
our roadsides during the cold months when neighbors aren’t able
to pick it up, but throwing garbage in our nature preserves is beyond the pale. People who can’t respect our trails should perhaps
stay off of them.
From the First Selectman
Al Cahill
Mother Nature has been kind to us thus far this winter, and
so, by the time you read this, the installation of the new steel roof
on Town Hall by Bradford Standing Seam LLC of Woodstock
should be complete.
A joint meeting of the Boards of Selectmen and Education of
Chaplin, Hampton and Scotland was scheduled for January 29 th at
Parish Hill High School. The purpose of this meeting: to spell out
the logistics of all contingencies of the options presented by the
Milone & MacBroom Tri-town Educational Study Working
Group, including a review of what’s been done, an outline of
where the towns are headed, and a presentation by legal counsel
on statutory obligations. A public input session is planned to be
scheduled for February.
A grant application to the Office of Policy & Management
through the Northeast Council of Governments (NECOG) has
been submitted for a Regional Performance Grant of $250,000 to
help finance the implementation of whatever option is chosen by
the voters in the three towns. This would be in addition to the
grant already awarded to cover the cost of the study.
The Board of Selectmen has begun preliminary work on the
2015-16 Budget. You will be apprised of any out-of-the-ordinary
expenses anticipated for the next fiscal year as we come closer to
finalizing the budget.
Our Public Works Department has worked hard to improve
the condition of the town roads as well as sight lines. But please
do not use this as an excuse to exceed the speed limit and endanger your neighbors, many of whom are small children and elderly
residents. I have received too many complaints of late that cars are
flying by at up to twice the posted speed limit. I will enforce speed
limits in town with outside help if need be. Please be forewarned
and slow down!
Fuel Assistance Available
Applications for energy assistance for the 2014-15 heating season
are now being accepted by the Access Community Action Agency. Program eligibility is determined by total household gross income and is
available for all households (except motor homes and campers) using oil,
kerosene, propane, wood, coal, electric, or natural gas heat. Residents
can contact Access in Willimantic at 860-450-7423 or in Danielson at
860-412-1601 to make an appointment to determine eligibility and to
find out what documentation they will need to bring to their appointments. Households that have received energy assistance in the past must
reapply and bring in updated documentation to be eligible for the new
heating season. Each applicant must bring in copies of their documentation, and if there is missing documentation they will be rescheduled .
Page 4
The Hampton GAZETTE
February 2015
What’s Going On
Town Meeting Approves Allocation of Funds
Dedication Honoring Dr. Catherine Wade
Approximately two dozen residents attended a Town Meeting
on January 5 to approve the allocation of funds for improvements
to town roads and to the elementary school’s security systems.
First Selectman Al Cahill, who moderated the meeting, explained that the town needed to formally approve the transfer of
$450,000, deposited into the general fund from a STEAP grant, to
the paving account to cover the costs of improvements to the
town’s roads, a measure that was approved unanimously.
Also unanimously approved was the transfer of $28,656 from
the Hampton Elementary School’s Capital and Non-Recurring
Account for use as matching funds towards a school security grant.
Superintendent Connie Berglund explained that the grant would
fund 88% of the total project, which includes additional security
measures at the main entrance to the school, and a ventilation system to improve air circulation in the cafeteria and the kitchen so
that these doors could remain closed. The security measures comply with the security review conducted last June by the State Police; the grant mandates that the projects be complete by the end of
this school year.
At its October 21 meeting, the Region #11 Board of Education
voted to re-name the Parish Hill Middle/High School Music Wing
in memory of the late Dr. Catherine Wade. Dr. Wade, a Hampton
resident and Hampton Board of Education member, was a tireless
advocate for music education and the arts in all tri-town public
schools. She also served as a music educator in a number of towns
for many years.
There will be a dedication ceremony at Parish Hill honoring
Dr. Wade on February 4 at 10:30 a.m. in the David D. Syme Auditorium. The Parish Hill Chamber Choir and Band will each perform a selection in her honor. A ribbon cutting ceremony and commemorative plaque installation will follow. Lunch will be provided
to attendees in the John Navin Library.
Connecticut Audubon Society
Center at Pomfret
Walks
February 4 – 25 Wednesday Noon Walks noon
February 5 – 26 Thursday Morning Walks 8:30 a.m.
February 21 Winter Owl Walk 7 p.m.
February 26 Monthly Bird Walk 1 p.m.
Children’s Programs
Wednesdays, February 4 – 25, Toddler Trails and Tales 9:30 – 11
a.m.
Citizen Science Volunteer Monitoring Program
February 7 Winter Tracking Hikes 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Location TBA)
At Trail Wood
Children’s Programs
Wednesdays, February 4 – 25,
After School Nature Club,
Grades 1 - 6
Walks
February 7 Full Moon Walk 7
p.m.
February 8 Sunday Walk 2 p.m.
Special Programs
The Writer’s Workshop Series: Edwin Way Teale & the Literary
Character of Trail Wood: February 1, 2-4 p.m.
Alison Davis, author and close friend of the Teales, will lead an
indoor and outdoor winter writer’s workshop. This will be one in a
seasonal series emphasizing the literary character of Trail Wood,
where E.W. Teale wrote many of his books. Registration required.
Cost: $10 members/$20 for non-members.
Fundraiser for Trail Wood: Stroll, Story, Stew and Song: February
22 at 2 p.m.
Pomfret resident, scientist, author and lively speaker, Joan Dash,
will speak on her mystery novel, “Shot in the Buff”, touching on
the different formulas associated with this genre and why she
chose the setting of a nudist camp in Northeast Connecticut. Join
us for this light-hearted discussion, great company, and hearty
fare. Cost: $25 per person. Reservations required.
Information and reservation forms are available at:
www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret/trail-wood
Mardi
Gras
February 2015
Dayna McDermott
PLEASE PATRONIZE
OUR ADVERTISERS
Tell them you saw their ad in the Gazette
Feb.
17th
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 5
LIBRARY HOURS
Fletcher Memorial Library
Wednesday 12-6 Thursday 9-12
Friday 9-12 Saturday 9-3
860-455-1086
New on Fletcher’s Shelves
Lots of books have come in over the holiday season, everything from popular thrillers and romantic suspense to favorite detectives,
a Pulitzer Prize winning poet, and a new installment of that juvenile favorite, Captain Underpants. New young adult and large print
books are on the shelves, too.
Fiction
David Baldacci
Amanda Cabot
Mary Higgins Clark
Beverly Cleverly
Anita Diamant
Sam Eastland
The Escape
At Bluebonnet Lake
The Cinderella Murder
Enter Pale Death
The Boston Girl
The Beast in the Red Forest (Inspector
Pekkala)
Janet Evanovich
The Job
Richard Ford
Let Me Be Frank with You
Tess Gerritsen
Die Again
Mark Greaney
Tom Clancy Full Force and Effect
W.E.B.Griffin
The Assassination Option
Thomas Hauser
The Final Recollections of Charles
Dickens
Andrew Lanh
Caught Dead
Janice Law
Moon over Tangier
Dennis Lehane
The Drop
Peter James
Want You Dead
Debbie Macomber
Mr. Miracle: A Christmas Novel
Alexander McCall Smith The Handsome Man’s Deluxe Cafe
Bradford Morrow
The Forgers
Stuart Neville
The Final Silence
Shawn Otto
Sins of Our Fathers
James Patterson
Hope to Die
Ruth Rendell
The Girl Next Door
Anne Rice
Prince Lestat: The Vampire Chronicles
Lisa Scottoline
Betrayed
Wilbur A. Smith
Danielle Steel
Garth Stein
Brad Taylor
Patrick Taylor
Stuart Woods
Large Print Fiction
Catherine Coulter
Iris Johansen
Non Fiction
George W. Bush
Dick Couch
Ina Garten
Atul Gawande
Louise Gluck
Maria Loi
Jenny Norberg
Gail Sheehy
Juvenile
Alison McGhee
Pikey, Dav
Young Adult
Gayle Forman
Story Time
Fletcher Memorial Library is starting a Story Time for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. The program will be from 1011 a.m. on Fridays, February 6, 13, 20 and 27. Librarian Deb Andstrom will have stories, rhymes, songs, finger play and musical
instruments for the children.
In addition, Saturday, February 7, is Take Your Child to the
Library Day at Fletcher Memorial. The library is open from 9 a.m.
to 3 p.m. with two story time sessions and craft activities, at 1011a.m., and again at 1-2 p.m.
The Senior Corner
The Seniors will host a special Valentine’s
Luncheon on Wednesday, February 11, at 1
p.m. in the Community Room at Town Hall.
All senior citizens are welcome to join us.
Hope to see you there.
www.hamptongazette.com
Page 6
Desert God
Pegasus
A Sudden Light
No Fortunate Son
An Irish Doctor in Peace and at War
Paris Match
Power Play
The Perfect Witness
41: Portrait of My Father
Navy Seals
Make It Ahead: A Barefoot Contessa
Cookbook
Being Mortal: Medicine and What
Matters in the End
Faithful and Virtuous Night (poems)
The Greek Diet
Underground Girls of Kabul
Daring: My Passages (memoir)
Star Bright, A Christmas Story
Captain Underpants and the Tyrannical
Retaliation of the Turbo Toilet
If I Stay (also the sequel, Where She
Went)
Green Thumbs
by Marcia Kilpatrick
Donate!
Here is a list of websites with information on donating items to
people, instead of donating them to the landfill.
Items to people in the community: freecycle.org
Clothing, household items and furniture: salvationarmyusa.org;
goodwill.org; planetaid.org
Women's professional clothing to the unemployed: dressforsucess.org
Men's professional clothing to low income men: careergear.org
New and used bras, lingerie, slips, camisoles and swimsuits in
support of breast cancer survivors: donateyourbra.com
Gently used formal dresses: dresspicks.com
Adult and kids shoes: solesforsouls.org
Old eyeglasses to those in need: lionsclubs.org/EN/our-work/
sight-programs/eyeglass-recycling/how-you-can-help.php
The Hampton GAZETTE
February 2015
Still the Season….
Life in Hampton
So, it's Christmas Eve and I accomplished my set goals plus
threw in an extra three hours of duty. It was raining hard and the
skies were dark at 4 p.m., but I was off to accomplish a commitment I made to friends down the road. Said I'd feed their cat; after
all, the cat knows Auntie…Kitty here I come. Usually the first day
mom and dad are gone I get snubbed for a bit; he takes out his
frustrations with humans on me, as expected.
So, I was driving down the road, feeling mighty spiritual. I
had just finished reading some uplifting material, and I was feeling so grateful for this existence and how lucky I was. I was considering 2015 being a great year as this one has been…but I want
to do better with this vessel we call a body. I want to take better
care of it. After all, I am in good health and at decent weight but I
could do better. I can fix it. Believe in Great Health and Great
Control. After all, it's fleshy and pliable…I can fix it…whatever
might be wrong…I'm feeling empowered…then it occurred to
me…the planet is alive, too…fleshy and pliable…so…we can fix
it…whatever might be wrong…even with thriving human ignorance. We can fix it.
So, I arrive at my destination after this incredible conversation I just had with myself. I get out in the pouring rain, black
vest, black hoodie, dark jeans, and I struggle to open the door. I
tried ten times. The roof rain water is pouring on me and my
hoodie and sweatshirt are soaking wet. Didn't know you had to be
a rocket scientist to open a door.
I crawl back into my car, text the owners…ooops…I was in
the wrong lock (note to self, use lower lock)…mind you I have
not had any holiday libations yet. I run back to the door…now by
this time Kitty is frightened – someone’s trying to break in, black
hoodie and all. By the time I get inside Kitty is hiding for his life;
he knows for sure it was a burglar who just finally busted in…
couldn't coax him out…so I scooped out two large coated lumps
from his box, gave fresh food and waited…and waited…and waited…he was still protecting his life in the darkness under the
bed…“Auntie didn't mean to scare you…come here”. Not.
I ate peanuts…chocolate…cheez-its and a candy bar. I drove
home saying…“yeah right, I'll start fixing that vessel tomorrow,
and maybe later on we can work on the planet thing”.
Hope your 2015 is spiritually uplifting.
Enjoy your life in Hampton…it's the best.
~ jurn
Still the season…nearly! And what better time to purchase
your Stop & Shop gift cards from the Hampton Gazette! As part
of their Cash for Causes program, Stop & Shop will donate back
to us a small percentage of the cards you purchase from us, to
help us with our operating expenses. Stop & Shop gift cards make
great holiday gifts to our mothers and fathers, to anyone who is
struggling in this economy; gift cards are always in season.
If Stop & Shop gift cards are not your thing, you can always
use them to purchase gift cards from dozens of other merchants:
fuel, restaurants, retailers, and more, often earning two or three
times the face value in gas rewards points! And the gift cards can
also be used to pay for your everyday food shopping and at the
Stop & Shop gas pump as well!
Gift cards are available in $10, $20, $25, $50 and $100 denominations, and can be obtained by contacting Kathi Newcombe
at 860-455-9864 or [email protected]. Checks should be
made out to the Hampton Gazette (we also accept cash!), and the
cards will be delivered to your door.
So, let’s see some more of that generous Hampton spirit!
Order your gift cards today!
Valentine’s Day Sock Hop
with Gary and the Pineapples
Bring your Valentine, your picnic basket feast, and your
appetite for our traditional Valentine's "Sock Hop" featuring
“Gary and the Pineapples” on Saturday, February 14, at
7:30 p.m. at the Community Center. The Rec Commission
will provide decadent desserts to cap off the evening. Prizes
will be awarded for the most creative pineapple-based beverage and appetizer, judged by a mystery “foodie” expert!
“Gary and the Pineapples” play good ol’ rock n’ roll as
well as original compositions. The Pineapples are another
fine example of Hampton's homegrown musical talent, succeeding “Big Jump” for this annual Valentine's event. In the
summer of 2009, Jerry Misak and Gary Freed were playing
a few songs at a Tiki bar right here in Hampton. They were
just friends jamming together who decided to include all of
the Tiki friends as "Pineapples". The Pineapple Nation has
grown beyond belief and today, “Gary and the
Pineapples”, now including drummer Corey
Thayer and lead guitarist Jason Reavey, have
scheduled a release of their first CD this winter.
Come join us for a Valentine’s celebration of
music and dance! Admission is $15, $25 per
couple, and accompanied children are free.
Come dance with us on Valentine’s Day!
Photograph by
Sierra Misak
February 2015
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 7
Hampton’s Next Generation
Scribners Kitchen & Bath Design
Congratulations
Scribners Kitchen & Bath Design may be an unfamiliar
name up here in Hampton, but they have been in Connecticut
since the business was founded in 1968 by Guy Scribner. Scribners Kitchen and Bath Design quickly became the premier kitchen and bath remodeling company serving southeastern Connecticut. The showroom is located at 44 Route 32, Quaker Hill, and
you can visit Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and
on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. In it, you’ll find a wonderful
selection of the finest materials in cabinetry, countertops, flooring, and plumbing fixtures.
If you are looking for a turnkey remodel you’ve found it at
Scribners. From the conceptual design to the finishing touches,
you’ll be assisted by a team of caring and knowledgeable professionals who are familiar with the latest design trends, materials
and techniques. Whether you are looking for a completely new
room from start to finish, an aging in place specialist, or someone who can help convert your existing space to accommodate
changing lifestyles, the friendly people at Scribners can make it
happen.
Using the latest computer CAD software, you’ll be provided
with a visual tour of your space. Imagine walking through your
new kitchen or bath before even purchasing the products! Cabinets, countertops, flooring, backsplash tile, showers, tubs…
they’ve got it all.
When Guy Scribner started Scribners Kitchen and Bath Design, he started it with believing that “a strong commitment to
quality and service is the foundation for lasting and successful
business”. The team at Scribners exemplifies just that. Caring,
knowledgeable and friendly. Stop by or call sometime…. you
won’t be disappointed.
You can also visit us on our website at www.scribners.us or
on facebook.
Congratulations to the following students for earning academic
distinction at their respective schools.
Lyman Memorial High School
Grade 10 High Honors: Noah Chokas
Windham Technical High School
Grade 9 High Honors: Marissa Shirshac
Grade 10 High Honors: Sierra Burke; Honors: Victoria Rooke
Grade 12 Honors: Sarina Dery
Eastern Connecticut State University Dean’s List
Kelsey Haddad, Class of 2015
Aaron Tumel, Class of 2015
Yalcin Yayla, Class of 2016
Robert Grindle, Class of 2016
Hampton Elementary Hosts Senior Lunchon
Gordon Hansen
Angelika and I were fortunate enough to be two of over thirty
senior citizens invited by Hampton Elementary School to attend a
special performance of their Holiday Concert on December 16, followed by a luncheon in the school library. The concert was great, the
children were charming, and the meal was delicious. Invitations to
seniors were sent out by the school’s administrative assistant, Tia
D’Amato, and the luncheon was served by a team of staff and students.
The fabulous feast was prepared by Hampton’s own Bob Grindle
and included a choice of cranberry stuffed chicken or salmon, roasted
potatoes, and grilled vegetables, all followed by a very special holiday cake.
Cindy Bezanson
Did you enjoy this month’s Hampton Gazette?
We certainly hope so! Our mission is to report Hampton’s happenings and keep our readers informed. If you are not on our mailing list
and would like to continue receiving a copy of the Gazette monthly,
please send your name, street address and mailing address to PO Box
101, Hampton, CT
06247 or email us at [email protected]. If you would prefer instead to receive an
email notification when the current issue is available online, send an
email telling us so, and we will add your email address to the notification list.
Photograph by Deb Leavens
Parish Hill Basketball
The schedule for Parish Hill’s games played on the home court for
the remainder of basketball season is as follows:
Boys Basketball: February 3, 6, 9, 23 and 25.
Girls Basketball: January 30 & February 16.
Junior Varsity games begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Varsity teams
starting at 7, with the exception of the January 30 th game which is
Girls’ Varsity only at 6 p.m.
Come support our local teams; there’s nothing like the fast-paced
game of basketball to break up winter’s monotony!
Page 8
The Hampton GAZETTE
February 2015
Slip Sliding Away: Memories of Sledding
on Hampton’s Snowy Slopes
Jean Wierzbinski
Cokey Reynolds was an athletic boy, and according to the story
Scott Johnson and Marge Trowbridge tell of his dramatic sled ride
down Hammond Hill one winter day in 1962, a fearless one.
Anyone who has driven down Hammond Hill in the snow
knows it is a fearsome thing with little room for error. Steep and
curving, it resembles an expert ski run more than a rural road. This
did not deter Cokey from launching himself down its unplowed
slope in front of an appreciative audience of youngsters. Not to be
outdone, Scott, Marge and their friends followed his lead, careening
down the hill behind him. Snow flying into their faces, they lost
sight of Cokey. Suddenly, a plow appeared on the hill. They quickly
steered their sleds off the side of the road. Relief at finding themselves safe was short-lived. There was no sign of Cokey. They
searched anxiously for him, sure that he had been whisked under the
plow, unseen by the driver. Thankfully, within minutes they found
that Cokey had managed to steer his sled off the road, landing safely
in a bank of snow, no doubt to tempt fate another day.
Hammond Hill was a choice sledding location due to its long,
steep slope. It had little traffic and was one of the last roads in town
to be plowed. In Alison Davis’ book, Hampton Remembers, George
Fuller recalled, “You had to watch it down Hammond Hill, though.
The bottom of the hill’s a little different from what it used to be. You
used to be able, with a sled, if you had to, go right down into the
lot”. Mark Davis remembers stories his father told about sliding
down Hammond Hill on two toboggans tied together end-to-end
with a rope, “loaded with kids”. Mark’s mother Alison, who lived in
the house next to the church at the time, recalled a winter evening
pot-luck supper of young couples at her home. Some of the husbands
decided to slide down Hammond Hill. Even from the house, she
could hear minister Charlie Peebles “screaming all the way down.”
Grow Hill was also a good spot. Arthur Kimball told Alison
Davis, “We’d slide on down the hill right straight on through the
middle of the road, Grow Hill and go on down to Elliott Station almost…We used to go up there on moonlight nights when the sliding
was good, a big group of us would go up there, and slide for two or
three hours in the evening.”
Hampton Hill was the most common sledding spot, according to
Scott Johnson and Randy Thompson. Before the state rerouted Route
6, it was relatively heavily traveled. The cars packed the snow,
providing a slick surface. In Hampton Remembers, George Fuller
recalled, “We did our sliding down Hampton Hill. You had to watch
it, though. Traffic wasn’t anywhere near what it is now but at that
time it was the main road from Hartford to Providence, remember.
On a middle of the week night you could look pretty well from the
top curve to the bottom and could see what might be comin’ from
Brooklyn way and if nothing showed up you’d go down Hampton
Hill”. Scott recalls that he could slide all the way down to the Little
River, sometimes stopping half-way down at Dean Viens’ house for
hot chocolate.
Another prime sledding spot was behind the old consolidated
school. In Hampton Remembers, Harold Stone remembered, “…
down back of the school was a slope, quite a good slope for sliding”.
According to Scott Johnson, children built toboggan jumps and
curves there. Trial and error determined the best placement. Children
were able to schedule sliding around academics – or perhaps academics were scheduled around sliding. Scott described a typical
day:
7:45 - 8:30
Before-school Sliding
8:30 - 10:00
Academics
10:00 - 10:30
Morning Recess Sliding
February 2015
10:30 - 12:00
Academics
12:00 - 1:00
Lunch Recess Sliding
1:00 - 2:00
Academics
2:00 - 2:30
Afternoon Recess Sliding
2:30 - 2:52
Academics
2:52 and On
After-school Sliding
This schedule continued until one day when Ray Stone, Tom
Trowbridge and Dean Viens were riding triple, one on top of the other
on a single sled. In an effort to stop, Ray rolled off, and the sled with
the other two boys still aboard ran over his wrist, cracking it, frightening the boys with thoughts of what their parents would say. Even
worse, Ray’s watch, which he was wearing, was destroyed. The
school put an end to sledding.
Sleds have existed for centuries. The first ones were made for
practical purposes, to pull loads across the snow and ice. The toboggan is the oldest style sled, the word from either the Algonquin word
odabaggan or the Anishinabe word nobugidaban (The Sled Book,
Brice J. Hoskin). In America, mass production of toboggans and sleds
began in the late 1800’s. The Paris Manufacturing Company of Maine
produced the first popular sleds for children, with hand-painted designs. Girls sat daintily in their Sunday best on high-sitting cutters,
while boys flung themselves belly-down on low-slung clippers. Flexible Flyers, with the advantage of a steering mechanism, replaced Paris
sleds in the early 1900’s.
Hampton sleds were homemade, store-bought, or a combination.
Arthur Kimball had a “long, long double ripper” that was “one long
plank, about fourteen foot long with a sled under each end of it.”
Dean Kimball had “a sled that was made out of planking – the two
runners and covered over the top”. Elliot Cartwright had a
“purchased” ripper. Scott Johnson used, and still has, his father’s
Flexible Flyer.
Alison Davis recalled that toboggans were best for deep, fresh
snow. As a young mother, she had a “cradle sled” that looked like a
baby’s cradle with skis. She used it to bring her infant son to the store.
Even this tame sledding had its perils. While they were maneuvering
down a particularly steep roadside snow bank during the exceptionally snowy winter of 1947, the sled tipped over, dumping baby Mark
into the snow. In the best tradition of Hampton’s intrepid sledders, he
“came out smiling”.
Sometimes, each child had his or her own sled, but piling onto
one sled was common, as in the Ray Stone incident. Children who
had not yet studied physics innately knew that more weight made the
sled go faster. As told in Hampton Remembers, Dean Kimball would
“get on that belly-bump and then the next large boy would get on him
and hold him, and they’d pile on there four or five high, go down the
hill. Of course, if they began to wobble a little bit Dean would tell
‘em which way to lean to counteract the pull cause if they went far
enough they’d all go off.” As many as twelve or fourteen children
would reportedly ride together.
Some children slid simply for fun and the thrill, but Scott Johnson recalled that Tom Trowbridge and Dean Viens were “always racing”, usually from the ball field at the consolidated school to the tree
line, a hill that was steeper then. The challenge was to stop at the end,
requiring a last-minute slam on the brakes (better known as dragging
your feet).
Hills were optional. Alison Davis remembers hitching a toboggan to a truck that pulled her and her friends along North Bigelow
Road, a ride that was most dangerous when the truck stopped.
Danger and daring were obviously part of the thrill of sledding.
A lingering excitement, not to mention pride, runs through these
memories. Thank you to those who shared, and a special thanks to
Alison Davis for her own memories and for preserving the memories
of others in her book, Hampton Remembers.
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 9
Hampton commenced its celebrations this season on
December 7th with a splendid Christmas concert at
Our Lady of Lourdes Church in the afternoon, a visit
from Santa Claus at the Burnham Hibbard House to
the delight of children at the Historical Society’s Open
House, and in the evening, our traditional tree-lighting
at Town Hall and caroling to seniors throughout the
town…
Church Photograph by Darlene Riquier
Historical Society Photographs by Sue Hochstetter
…and culminated the seasonal festivities with a performance of “A Christmas Memory” on January 10th when Truman Capote’s words came to life on the Community Center
Stage under the wonderful direction of Gordon Hansen and
with fine performances by Troy Lake, Hope Barton, Thayer
Kitchen, Renee Cuprak, and Juan Arriola.
Photograph by India Arriola
Page 10
The Hampton GAZETTE
February 2015
Nuts and Bolts
Dayna McDermott
“How To’s” are not my forte. I’m completely inept when it
comes to reading directions, let alone writing them. And as to my
know-how? Old wives tales, instinct, trial and error, neighborly
advice: these are my garden compasses. With these honed tools
I’ve written instructions on putting the garden to sleep in the winter and waking the garden up in the spring; articles on projects are
aesthetic recommendations I’ve gleaned from books and observations, rather than lessons on actual installation.
When people visit our garden, their primary question is: how?
And though I could narrate the origin of every tree, shrub, flower - that isn’t what they mean. And they don’t mean -- how do you
plant an azalea, construct a deck, install a water garden? They
mean -- how has the whole materialized, how does a gardener decide where to plant trees, to site a terrace, to situate a garden, questions that return us to the philosophical discussion of design.
I’ve read a lot, and written a little, on the principles of landscaping, on the influence of balance, line, scale and rhythm on
positive and negative space, on incorporating math into artistic
decisions, on the succession of installation. So, how are these abstractions applied? How do we balance the densities of various
masses, establish lines to delineate spaces, estimate the eventual
impact of an element on the whole, create rhythm to ensure harmony? How do we put the theories onto the earth?
Simply put, with paper and pencil. Either the actual objects, or
their computer generated forms. There are ample programs that
provide instructions on the sequence of development utilizing the
universal symbols employed to represent all the possible aspects
of a plan. The grid on the graph paper, or the computer screen,
affords scaled dimensions of the landscape as a whole and all of its
elements, and provides the birds-eye-view needed to balance positive and negative space. Incorporating design principles and a wish
list into an actual plan is the fun part, between the reality of site
analysis and budgetary constraints, and the expenditure of dollars
and labor.
The initial step of the plan establishes the boundaries of the
design, the landscaped portion of the property, and assigns a value
to the squares on the graph paper, a number which represents the
selected dimension. The amount is dependent on the dominant
feature of the house, for example, the space between the posts of a
porch, and is the design’s secret ingredient, for although not readily discerned, this number and its multiples, common to the dimensions of the positive masses and the negative spaces and repeated
throughout the landscape, is the single most unifying factor. In our
yard the number is six, the length of the façade’s windows and
front door, thus gardens, trees, shrubbery, and the spaces separating the plantings, employ in their dimensions multiples of six.
The next step is the structural plan, which incorporates all the
fixed features. For most of us this would include at least the house
and the driveway and any natural features, such as trees, boulders,
a pond. More developed parcels could include existing shrubbery
and stone walls, a garage or a barn, perhaps gardens. Mark buried
wires, the septic system and leaching fields on the plan as well.
The next step, the schematic plan, divides the landscape into
its roles: the static spaces reserved for specific functions; and the
transitional spaces linking them. This part of the plan assigns areas
for recreational purposes, such as a swimming pool or a trampoline, utilitarian areas, such as solar panels and vegetables, and aesFebruary 2015
thetic areas, such as gardens and arbors. The schematic plan also
contemplates private retreats and public spaces, from the entrance
to the property, the foreground, to the far view, the front door. The
transitional spaces bridge the static ones and evoke movement:
paths, expanses of lawn, terraced steps, corridors created with
shrubs, fences, or trees.
The static and the transitional spaces share a selected geometry. Just as the house dictates the dimension, the surrounding landscape determines the shapes of the various areas to harmonize
with the broader environment. The rolling hills and rambling
stonewalls of rural views suggest rounded areas and circuitous
routes, while the tall buildings bordering urban gardens call for
straight lines and angular features, the curve of a grove of trees
versus a columnar allee, a meandering stone path versus a brick
walkway, a tapestry hedge versus an iron fence, a serpentine garden versus a raised square, a rectangular reflecting pool versus an
oval one.
The final step is the planting plan. Peruse gardening magazines and books to develop a list of desirable plants for all the
places which deemed them necessary. Take into consideration the
horticultural requirements of soil, sunlight and moisture, budgetary constraints, and especially proportion and ultimate girth. The
most common mistakes homeowners make are selecting trees and
shrubs that overwhelm the house, or planting them too closely
together.
Install the plan incrementally. Monetary constraints usually
limit us to selecting a single construction project, a couple of
trees, and one area of shrubbery per year. There are also time
limitations; new flower gardens are extremely labor intensive, so
establishing one or two a year is a reasonable amount. Restrictions of time and money postpone full implementation and
allow us to evaluate and revise. Changes can be made by erasing
or deleting far easier than uprooting and transplanting. Landscapes are constantly transforming; the plan is simply a road map.
Of course, when designing a landscape, nothing is as informative as a walk around the property, and winter is prime time to
assess the site. Positive and negative spaces reveal themselves
more clearly in the winter, stripped of the distractions of color.
And it’s catalogue season. Compiling wish lists, determining dimensions, selecting shapes, applying the principles of design, revising the plan -- all require periodic trips around the yard.
Throughout the development of the landscape, the earth and the
paper work in consort.
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 11
continued from page 1
Starting with the first, “The Pirates of Penzance”, when Fred
alleviated our awkward, junior-high, stage fright by convincingly
proclaiming us a “bevvy of beautiful maidens”, he unfailingly
instilled confidence in all of us with his offers of encouragement
and guidance.
And his performances were always memorable. None of us
fortunate enough to have watched “Guys and Dolls” will ever
forget Fred tunefully imploring us to “Sit Down, You’re Rocking
the Boat!”
Director Bob McDermott described Fred as “Master of the
Adlib”, claiming that, though he never knew exactly what words
Fred would deliver, he was always on the right page. Bob also
credited Fred with his delivery on the most important aspect of
Community Theater -- to have a good time.
An enthralling storyteller, Fred in recent years has appeared
on the stage of the Community Center to narrate the Recreation
Commission’s productions of “A Christmas Carol”.
Says Director Gordon Hansen, “Ask Fred ‘Scrooge’ Curry for
help on stage, back stage or off stage, and the only time you will
hear the word ‘no’ will be when Fred says, ‘No Problem’."
The theater is not the only place where Fred has spread
Christmas cheer. For years Fred assisted Tom with his seasonal
business selling Christmas trees, and still helps with the wreaths,
and his resonant voice and contagious spirit have led the carolers
who annually sing to our elders.
Fred has also lent his musical talents to the church choir. The
Congregational Church has been the recipient of Fred’s generosity
for years, where he has served on every one of the Church’s committees.
“He is always present, with the right questions, the right
words of encouragement, the offer of whatever is needed,” says
Pastor Ginny Smanik. “I have observed him as he moves about
town, checking in with old friends and newcomers, spreading
good cheer and making connections, strengthening old ties and
inviting new ones. Fred personifies welcome, his warm smile
lighting up a room, his spirit of joy providing a warmth that permeates. What a gift he is to the entire Hampton community.”
Fred’s is a familiar face in all village establishments – the
Church, the post office, to which he frequently walks, the general
store, whenever it’s in business, the library, where he organized a
book club for a while and volunteered for summertime reading to
children, and at Town Hall, running errands for the several organizations he serves.
“I just love it when Fred comes in the office,” says Administrative Assistant Liz Stillman. “He’s such a joy to work with and
brightens my day.”
“Ever since I’ve lived here Fred Curry has had a longstanding commitment to helping the town of Hampton and everyone who resides here,” adds First Selectman Al Cahill. “We’re
very fortunate to have him as a neighbor.”
"Pop loves the town of Hampton and enjoys immensely being
active on many levels that serve the greater good,” says son Keith.
“He is certainly much deserving of this award and will appreciate
the recognition for his many years of personal community service.”
Fred and Sylvia have also served as volunteer docents at the
Nathan Hale Homestead. On our last visit there, Sylvia, who was
an elementary school teacher prior to her retirement from Pomfret
Community School, showed us the chores children were responsiPage 12
ble for in colonial times, and Fred instructed us in the one room
school house. How comfortable the two of them were in the roles
of teaching children!
Having served in the armed forces during the Korean War as
a First Lieutenant in the Quartermaster’s Corps, honoring veterans is a cause close to Fred’s heart, and he was instrumental in
reviving our local chapter of the American Legion, Leslie Jewett
Post #106. According to Gordon Hansen, “A few years ago
when it was rumored that Hampton's American Legion Post 106
would probably be forced to disband due to lack of membership
and attendance, ‘No Way’ said Fred, and now, years later we
have scheduled a meeting to discuss the Post's participation in the
2015 Memorial Day Parade.”
As a veteran and as a resident, Fred has always been involved in the Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, from judging
floats to serving ice cream, ensuring that our annual commemoration, year after year, lives up to its legendary expectations.
In an interview with the Hampton Gazette a decade ago, Fred
told us he sees Memorial Day in Hampton “as the essence of
America, many personalities and convictions coming together to
make one town, one country.”
We see Fred as the essence of an American: for his commitment to community, his volunteerism, his dedication to friends
and family, his willingness to share his considerable talents with
others, and above all, for the spirit he brings to every one of his
endeavors.
The town of Hampton, Mr. Curry, thanks you.
Letters continued from page 2
did the best they could with what they had to work with. We drove
over roads that sometimes had a few inches of hard packed snow,
and the going was tough, but we didn’t complain about the inconveniences that come with foul weather.
Back then, hardly anyone had four-wheel-drive. Front-wheeldrive wasn’t an option, nor was all-wheel-drive. We sometimes
put tire chains on our vehicles just to drive on roads, state highways included. Most of our winters these past few decades have
been much easier than what we had years ago. That’s climate
change, I suppose. And now we’ve got better technology for our
snow removal process. The State has changed to mostly using
some form of salt application. Certainly the roads are often much
easier to drive on in a very short amount of time, but when the
temperature drops closer to “0” even that doesn’t help so well. My
thought is that we still need to be using sand, which gives us traction! Salt? Well, it’s great for automobile manufacturers and repair
garages. Yes, now your vehicle will rust out much faster than ever
before!
Some people complain that our roads are not cleared of snow
and ice instantly, even when they (thankfully) have nowhere to go!
We have only three full-time employees maintaining our roads,
and there are lots of roads to maintain. Try putting yourself in their
shoes for one snowstorm, working 15 to 17 hour shifts behind a
snowplow, through the night and treacherous conditions. If you
could be a passenger during only one of these storms, you probably would never complain again!
During trying times, gratitude goes a long way.
Mean Joe Green
The Hampton GAZETTE
Feb. 12 Abraham Lincoln
Feb. 22 George Washington
February 2015
In Memoriam
Geraldine Gagnon Rodriguez, formerly of Hampton, passed
away on November 15, 2014, three days before her 72nd birthday. Born on November 18, 1942, Geraldine moved to Connecticut from Maine after graduating from high school. She married
Thomas Rodriguez on June 8, 1963, and Tom and Gerry settled
in Hampton where they raised their sons, Dennis and Paul. Active in town, Gerry was a parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes
Church and a member of the Women’ Auxiliary of the Fire Department. Along with her husband and sons, Gerry leaves three
grandchildren, a sister, and two brothers. Our condolences to all.
Germaine Ayotte passed away on December 1, 2014. Born June
19, 1940, Germaine entered into religious life at the age of 19 as
Sister Irene Leopold with the Daughters of the Holy Spirit at the
Provincial House in Putnam where she was in charge of the
kitchen. Germaine is remembered here in Hampton for her kitchen at the Hampton General Store, where she was known as the
“Cookie Lady”. She was happiest sharing her legendary desserts
and her humor, served with a mischievous smile and a twinkle in
her eye. A faithful parishioner, donations in Germaine’s memory
may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Church. Our condolences
to our neighbors, Normand and Naomi Ayotte, and Mark and
Christine Ayotte and their sons Trey and Maxim.
Donna Parson, formerly of Hampton, passed away on December
16, 2014. Born in 1941, Donna lived in Hampton for many years
and was active in politics on the state and local level, serving on
the Democratic Town Committee, as executive director of the
Connecticut Citizen Action Group, and directing two congressional campaigns and several state legislative campaigns. A community organizer, Donna led the fight that prevented I-84 from
slicing through nature preserves and historic sites in the Quiet
Corner. She was a founding member of the Hampton Gazette and
wrote to us from time to time. She recently penned a novel inspired by the Estonian heritage of her husband John who predeceased her in 1997. Our condolences to her daughters, Jennifer
and Joanna.
Elizabeth Maiorano Lanoue, formerly of Hampton, passed
away on December 23, 2014 in the 76 th year of her life. She was
born on November 18, 1938, the daughter of the late Anthony
and Elizabeth (Koenicke) Maiorano. As the mother of two sons,
William Stiehl III and Michael Stiehl, a daughter, Deborah
Stiehl, and grandmother to three grandsons, all of whom survive
her, she enjoyed camping, opening day of fishing season, and
took a turn once behind the wheel of a stock car. We remember
her behind the wheel of the school bus, transporting us safely,
and as Secretary of the Hampton Consolidated School. We remember a very beautiful lady with a kind word for all children –
our condolences to hers.
Laura E. Schimmelpfennig and Albert H. Schimmelpfennig
Laura E. Schimmelpfennig passed away on December 31, 2014
with her husband, Albert, of 72 years by her side. Albert H.
Schimmelpfennig passed away on January 2, 2015, joining his
wife, Laura, on their 72nd wedding anniversary. Born in Oklahoma on July 13, 1924, Laura was devoted to her Connecticut and
Oklahoma families. Born on March 7, 1921, Albert was a Veteran of the United States Army, serving in Japan during the Allied
occupation and discharged in 1946 at the rank of Sargeant. Laura
was predeceased by three brothers and three sisters, and Albert
February 2015
was predeceased by two brothers and two sisters. The couple is
survived by their three sons, Joseph and his wife Kathleen, Albert
and his wife Carol, and John and his wife Wanda of Hampton,
four grandchildren, Geoffrey, Brandie, Heidi and Kellie Schimmelpfennig, two step-grandchildren, Shawn Below and Christopher Willard, eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and
nephews. Our condolences to them all.
Reverend Gerard J. Boulanger passed away on January 2, 2015
in the 70th year of his life. Born on March 20, 1944, he started his
seminary studies at La Salette College Seminary, entering La
Salette Novitiate for his first profession of vows, and La Salette
Seminary for his perpetual vows. He completed his studies at
Catholic University and was ordained at La Salette Seminary in
1973. He served as a pastor in parishes throughout the country,
closing the last decade of the 20th century here in Hampton,
where Father Gerry was beloved by the parishioners of Our Lady
of Lourdes Church.
COY List
Each year since its inception, the Hampton Gazette has honored a volunteer who has exemplified citizenship through efforts to
improve the quality of life in Hampton. The selection is based on
the nominations we receive from you, our readers, thus this list of
honorees is justly representative of our town.
1979 Jeanne Kavanaugh
1980 The Kennans
1981 Walt and Phyllis Stone
1982 Dale and David DeMontigny
1983 Dorothy Holt
1984 Henry and Eleanor Moon
1985 Francis Wade
1986 Charles and Marion Halbach
1987 Arlene Burr and Leila Ostby
1988 Helen Pearl
1989 The Town of Hampton
1990 American Legion Post 106
1991 Bert Inman
1992 Dana Kennan
1993 Hampton Fire Department
1994 Maurice Bisson
1995 Al Ameer
1996 Diane Meade
1997 Eva Loew
1998 Claire Winters
1999 Catherine Wade
2000 Jim Charron
2001 Rick Nichols
2002 Louise Oliver
2003 Jim and Janet Robertson
2004 Wendell and Alison Davis
2005 Norine Barrett
2006 S. JoAnn Freeman
2007 Warren Stone
2008 Gay Wagner
2009 Trudy Brockett and Richard Schenk
2010 Melanie Johnston
2011 Dan Meade
2012 Hampton’s Volunteers
2013 Stan Crawford
2014 Rheo Brouillard
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 13
Democratic Registrar of Voters Resigns
Brian Tracy
After nearly two years of tension and turmoil, formal complaints,
and a challenge to her office, Democratic Registrar Marilynn “Sam”
Higgins resigned her post on January 8th, immediately after taking the
oath of office for the new term, and appointing Mary Oliver Deputy
Registrar. Per statute, Oliver will serve as Democratic Registrar of
Voters until the 2016 election.
In a recent interview, Higgins blamed Republican Registrar
Dayna Arriola for creating a “toxic” atmosphere in the Registrars’
Office, claiming that her “Republican counterpart has absolutely no
interest in working cooperatively.” Higgins also revealed to the press
that Arriola filed a formal complaint against her on January 2nd,
though she denies that this was the impetus for her resignation.
“The Republican Registrar has systematically bullied and harassed the Democratic Registrars and Assistants/Deputies since 2008,
when she was not elected as the candidate to be the Democratic Registrar,” Higgins told the Gazette. “I feel for the good of the Town of
Hampton the Republican Registrar should take the advice of the Editor of the Willimantic Chronicle and she should resign as well. I have
been constantly blamed in the Gazette for the strife and stress in the
office of ROV,” Higgins said. “I am not the common denominator in
this situation.”
After reporting on the dismissal of a complaint Higgins lodged
against Arriola last year, the Gazette published a number of letters,
submitted by election officials, critical of Higgins.
Arriola served as Democratic Registrar from 2003 to 2009, following in the footsteps of family members who served the Democratic
Party in that capacity for over a century. Arriola’s Republican counterpart, Kathi Newcombe, reports there was no turmoil between them
during this time. However, Arriola was one of a few Democratic officials, all of whom subsequently left the Party, who opposed the Democratic Town Committee in 2007 for producing a slate on the Municipal ballot filled with Republicans, in spite of the willingness of incumbent Democrats to continue to serve. In 2008, the Town Committee
nominated Joan Fox to serve as the Democratic Registrar, and Newcombe appointed Arriola as her Deputy, “because we worked so well
together.” Subsequently, both Newcombe and Fox resigned and were
replaced by Arriola and Fox’s Deputy, Matt LaFontaine, who filled
Fox’s unexpired term until the Town Committee appointed Higgins in
2011. LaFontaine, who subsequently served as Moderator and assistant to both registrars, petitioned for Primary against Higgins in 2014,
noting the negative impact of the turmoil on the polling place and
staff. After an enthusiastic campaign, Higgins defeated LaFontaine on
August 12th.
Documentation available at Town Hall, including email exchanges between Higgins and Arriola attached to the minutes of the October
6, 2014 Board of Selectmen meeting, reveals that disputes appear to
have started in May of 2013. The issue: the appointment of election
officials. According to the correspondence, trouble brewed around
voting events and was evident throughout 2013’s lengthy budget deliberations, resurfacing in May of 2014 with the first of the school
budget referenda. Entries in the Moderator’s Journal substantiate the
tension evident in the email exchanges during those periods.
Higgins, who frequently punctuated her emails with capital letters
and multiple exclamation points, objected to employing many of
Hampton’s long-serving election officials, referring to them as “Team
Dayna”, while Arriola opposed Higgins’ attempts to appoint people
with a vested interest in the outcome of the vote, for example school
board members or employees serving at a referendum on the school
budget.
The email exchanges were submitted to the Selectmen to illustrate the need for mediation in appointing election officials after Higgins, during an October 2, 2014 meeting, objected to a mediation session, claiming there was never an issue around the appointment of
Page 14
election staff.
Since September 15th, when the last of the emails has Higgins
notifying Arriola, “I feel as though I am going to throw up when I
have to be in the same space as you,” the two have rarely worked in
the office together, according to their respective time sheets, so it is
unclear as to precisely what precipitated Higgins’ sudden resignation.
The possibility of another resignation is unlikely. “I have every
confidence that Mary is as disinterested in feuding as I am,” said
Arriola, “and as committed to following election law.”
SEEC to Investigate Complaint
Brian Tracy
A complaint has been filed with the State Election Enforcement
Commission (SEEC) against Marilynn “Sam” Higgins, until recently, the Democratic Registrar of Voters. The SEEC has determined it
will move forward with an investigation into Higgins’ alleged misconduct, despite her recent resignation. The complaint was brought
by Republican Registrar, Dayna Arriola.
As reported in the Gazette, there has been tension between the
two for some time, often requiring, at Arriola’s request, mediation by
Selectmen Allan Cahill and Bob Grindle. Higgins previously filed an
SEEC complaint against Arriola in July of 2013 which accused Arriola of unilaterally appointing election officials and completing other
duties without Higgins’ involvement. In response to the complaint,
Arriola countered that Higgins often refused or neglected to complete mandatory tasks on a timely basis, and the complaint was dismissed after an investigation with the conclusion that there was no
support for a finding of wrongdoing on Arriola’s part; that, in fact,
Arriola’s actions prevented the office from being derelict in performing the “joint and several duties” of the Registrars. As part of the
SEEC ruling, the Commissioners praised the mediation efforts of the
Selectmen and urged the continued use of them.
Arriola’s complaint alleges dozens of violations of election law,
including failure to take the oath of impartiality, distributing ballots
without verifying voter eligibility, failure to properly train election
officials, prolonged absences at voting events without appointment
of a replacement, failure to attend registrar sessions mandated by the
State, and removal of the voter checklist from the polls.
Arriola’s complaint is largely centered on conduct that occurred
in preparation for, and during, the August 12, 2014 Democratic primary. One of the most egregious violations alleges that Higgins unlawfully barred Matt LaFontaine’s nomination for her position as
Registrar at the Democratic caucus in late May, as well as subsequently obstructing the process for his primary petition.
Other lapses include vast discrepancies in records Higgins was
responsible for maintaining, for example, figures reported to the
State show that only 147 people voted in the Democratic primary,
though 184 votes were cast.
The complaint is supported by 32 exhibits, official documents
and signed statements from the many witnesses who served during
voting events as well as voters.
In a recent interview, Higgins claimed that the complaints were
“groundless” and any mistakes she may have made “weren’t made
with malice.”
“I believe this complaint is totally without merit,” Higgins stated when asked to comment, “and is concrete proof that there is no
actual interest on the part of the Republican ROV to work cooperatively in the best interests of the voters of Hampton.”
Arriola prefaced her complaint with a statement that she was
“reluctant to file a complaint” but felt it necessary “under the advisement of other Registrars during Moderator training, on behalf of
aggrieved voters, and in consideration of the recent situation in Hartford”.
The Hampton GAZETTE
February 2015
Angelika Hanson of RE/MAX®
Wishes you all
A Happy Valentine’s Day
CALL...TEXT...EMAIL
Home Office 860-455-0394
RE/MAX Destination
1182 Storrs Road
Office 860-429-3973 ext.102
Cell: 860-213-2043
Email: [email protected]
February 2015
The Hampton GAZETTE
Page 15
Programs at Goodwin
Emma Lorusso
Dressing for the Cold
Proper clothing for winter programs (and surviving the winter in
general!) is essential. Wear warm coats and extra layers (more
than you think you need). Cotton socks have little insulation value and absorb moisture; once wet they lose all insulation value,
making your feet even colder. Wool socks, when wet, wick the
water away from your feet, keeping your feet warm and dry.
Socks are the most important part of winter attire. Please come
prepared for outdoor programs!
February 1 Winter Tales for Trails 1 – 3 p.m.
Bring a cushion and your favorite stuffed animal to listen to winter stories, your boots, hats and mittens for a 1- 1 ½ mile hike
along Goodwin’s Airline Trail. For children of all ages; registration required.
February 6 Winter Tales for Trails: Preschoolers 10 – 11 a.m.
Join us for this special story-hour as we explore winter picture
books and Goodwin Forest’s Discovery Trail. Be sure to dress
warmly and wear boots, hats and mittens! For pre-school aged
children; registration required.
February 7 Long Distance Guided Hike 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Explore the extensive trail system at Goodwin State Forest with a
long-distance guided hike with Elaine Koza, who will chose a
hike that is appropriate based on the weather conditions and
group consensus. Expect a 5-7 mile hike. Friendly dogs are welcome.
February 7 Tracking Quarry 10 a.m. - noon
Ever wonder what passes by your house when you’re not
around? If you don’t know how to find out and want to learn
more, join Connecticut Conservation Ambassador Michael Grady
as we step into the world of footprints, deficit and animal sign
identification.
February 10 Senior Walk 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
These are easy to moderate but still casual walks taken on forest
trails, a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new and
maybe even meet a few new friends. Precipitation, icy conditions, and below 30° temperatures with wind-chill cancels!
February 15 Identifying Bark 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Leaf identification is a great way to identify trees, but how will
you recognize your favorite trees in the winter? Naturalist Emma
Lorusso will help you to identify trees by their bark so you have
a well-rounded understanding of tree identification.
February 16 Tracking Quarry: Snowshoeing noon – 2 p.m.
One of the most ancient forms of transportation, snowshoeing
has developed into a winter sport. Beginners and experienced
snowshoers are welcome to join us. Registration is required;
snowshoes, available upon request, are free for the first dozen
participants. To request a pair, email [email protected].
February 19 Forest Measurements 10 a.m. – noon
Join Program Director and Certified Forester Jim Parda and Naturalist Emma Lorusso to learn about the tools that foresters use to
measure a single tree and the whole forest! Registration required.
February 22 Footprints: Animal Tracking noon – 2 p.m.
Naturalist Emma Lorusso will introduce us to the basics of animal tracking. We will look at areas that have been baited, and
see what types of animals are walking around Goodwin when
we’re not around!
February 25 Identifying Bark 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Leaf identification is a great way to identify trees, but how will
you recognize your favorite trees in the winter? Naturalist Emma
Lorusso will help you to identify trees by their bark so you have
a well-rounded understanding of tree identification.
February 28 Bluebirds Time TBD
Learn all about bluebirds from Master Naturalist Ed Boisits. Following the lesson we will build our own bluebird boxes for you
to take home! Registration is required -- let us know how many
boxes you would like to build.
Soup & Silents
Hampton Congregational Church has again engaged Hollywood’s special silent
movie organist Clark
Wilson to accompany
the Buster Keaton
silent comedy “Seven
Chances”
at
the
church on Saturday,
January 31. The film
is considered by many
to be Keaton’s best
comedy and always
has great appeal to all
ages. The event again
starts with a soup and
bread dinner available
at 5:30 p.m. at the
church’s Holt Hall.
The movie starts
promptly at 7 p.m.
Adults are $15, children 5 - 12 are $5, and
families are $30. Admission includes the
dinner and the movie.
Call the church office
at 860-455-9677 or
send an email to [email protected]