NewHartfordPlus.com

By: Andrew Pelletier

When I was a kid, I was a Sci-Fi junkie. Especially robots… the robot from Lost in Space, Robby the Robot, R2-D2 and C3PO from Star Wars. Mechanized heroes of yesteryear, who were programmed to protect and assist their human masters. However, today’s modern high school students are doing something much cooler… even cooler than science fiction. They’re joining Robotics Teams like the one that is now forming at Northwestern Regional # 7 High School, and building their own robots!

The “FIRST” Robotics Team, FIRST being an acronym for: “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology”, is a program that is capturing the imaginations of Northwestern Regional # 7 High School students. Already, students are eager to take on the challenge, which will call on them to work together as a team, brainstorm and share ideas, to imagine, plan and design and to work with experienced mentors who currently work in the fields of technology and engineering. The club will meet after school and is for high school students grades 9 – 12, but a middle school program is being looked into, to develop an interest early in younger students. The team will have a strict time schedule to follow and must work together to design and build a robot that must carry out a specified task while competing with their peer’s mechanical creations under stressful competition. Spectators and contestants alike are just as enthusiastic as any crowd that has ever attended a varsity sporting event. It gets downright wild!

The FIRST Robotics team, is being touted as “The Varsity Sport of the Mind” that combines the excitement of sports with the rigors of science and technology.  Here’s what the FIRST Robotics schedule look like:

• In October, the Northwestern team will register with the FRC (or FIRST Robotics Competition), visit Farmington High School and their established Robotics team, and meet and greet with potential adult mentors and engineers.
• In November/December, the Robotics team will hold strategy meetings and receive training and technical advice on building a robot.
• In January, the FRC season begins! On January 7th, 2012, the Robotics team will watch a live broadcast of the competition regulations and will also be given a password to decode the FRC competition manual and to pick up a pre-packaged kit of parts. The kit of parts is exactly the same for every team involved nationally. From January 7th, 2012 the Robotics team has 6 weeks to design and build a working robot that will carry out a specific task that is to be detailed in the competition manual.
• In February, the Northwestern team will be notified of any changes or improvements to the regulations via email. Then it’s Robot Ship Day. The team must stop work on their robot and have the robot shipped Fed Ex to the competition location.
•  In March, the competitions begin.  The robot entries compete and will be judged and awarded for design, creativity, innovation and cultural changing behavior.
• In April, winning teams will send a delegation to the FIRST championship in St. Louis, Missouri! From there the team could also earn a place in the World Championships and qualify for $15,000,000 in college Scholarships.

Alcoa Foundation provides full funding, engineering support for Robotics Program

In an interview with Superintendent Judith Palmer and High School Principal Ken Chichester, they both spoke enthusiastically of the program. According to Superintendent Judith Palmer, “The thrust right now in our national educational system is in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, or STEM areas. The Robotics program is an ideal way to introduce our young students to STEM areas.” High school Principal, Ken Chichester, added, “We’re experiencing an era much like the late 50′s and the Sputnik era space race. America is lagging behind in the STEM areas. The Robotics competition is the perfect mechanism to bring applied theory of STEM-based curriculum and to use it practically.” The program will be ideal for students concentrating their studies in the STEM areas and who may apply to such schools as MIT, RIT, Rensselaer or Worcester Poly Tech. They also said that the students will be working with local professionals in technology and engineering who can “share knowledge and real world experience”. The Robotics Team’s lead Engineer and Mentor will be Mike Sullivan of Alcoa Howmet with assistance from Sterling’s John Lavieri who has offered shop access to the students on the Robotics team. Alcoa Foundation will  provide 2 years of funding thanks to a $35,000 grant from the Alcoa Foundation.  No funding will be necessary from Regional towns to support the Robotics team start up during this two-year period.  It is hoped that other local businesses and corporations will recognize the enormous value of the Robotics program and help support the program in the future.

Applying what is learned in the classroom toward building a robot

When asked what classes would benefit the team, Ken Chichester and Judith Palmer said that the students will act as their own administrators, so business skills will be useful for press releases, communications, facilitation and promotion. Graphic artists and web designers will be needed, CAD operators for designing components and computer animation and 3-d program operators can be utilized to render their robot design before it’s built. Mathematics will involve fractions, decimal points, Algebra, Geometry, trigonometry and calculus. Computer science and Physics will be called on as well as electrical and mechanical engineering. Practical skills will also help the team such as using hand and power tools and measuring devices.

Recruiting and community outreach

A great deal of interest was created when Ken Chichester and Judith Palmer went to the school cafeteria and science classes and promoted the FIRST Robotics Program. At last count they had 30 students signed up. Principal Chichester also said that he is going to send a letter to each town selectman, promoting the program in each town and asking for their input. “Regional 7 High School is a compilation of communities.”, he said, “When the robot is completed, we’re going to take it on a tour to local Town Halls, so that the community can see what they helped create through their input.”

What the program needs

1. 2-3 Professional Engineers who can guide the students through the engineering, designing and fabrication challenges.
2. 2-3 additional adults to handle organization, communication, registration, website and travel arrangements

Anyone who is interested in assisting in this endeavor should contact Mr. Ken Chichester, Principal of Northwestern Regional # 7 High School, at 860-379-8525 or email him at kchichester@nwr7.org

FIRST Robotics and what its competitions look and sound like

To learn more about Dean Kamen’s inspirational FIRST Robotics programs visit the USFIRST website.  Watch the video posted on YouTube to get a taste of the Robotics programs and to understand why the FIRST Robotics program at Regional is causing such a stir.

More about Alcoa and the Alcoa Foundation

Alcoa Howmet is located on Price Road in the Winsted Industrial Park off Route 8, north of the Winsted center. Alcoa is the world’s leading integrated aluminum company, providing jobs to 59,000 employees across 31 countries. Since inventing the modern-day aluminum industry more than 120 years ago, Alcoa innovation has been behind major milestones in the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation, consumer electronics and industrial markets.

This is how the company describes the work of its Foundation and its employees:

“Wherever we operate across the globe, we work hard to earn our social license to operate every day. Guided by the Alcoa Community Framework, Alcoa and Alcoa Foundation partner with nonprofits, academic institutions, local governments, and civic organizations to address community development needs and advance the company’s core priorities around environment, empowerment, education, and sustainable design.

 Our commitment is further strengthened by the hands–on work of thousands of our employee volunteers, who each day play an active role in making the neighborhoods and the communities in which we operate safer, stronger, and more compelling places to live and work.”

To learn more about how Alcoa is addressing local needs and tackling global challenges, please visit the Alcoa Foundation website.

HUGE THANKS: To the Alcoa employees and the Alcoa Foundation for launching the Robotics Program at Regional # 7 – the ultimate in fun while learning!

By: Andrew Pelletier

The Northwestern Regional #7 Board of Ed met on Wednesday, October 12, 2011. In attendance was Althea “Candy” Perez – Middle school Principal, Ken Chichester – High School Principal, Judith Palmer – Superintendent, Roger Newbury – Director of Finance, Molly Sexton Read – Chair and representative for Barkhamsted, Janice Dorazio – Vice Chair and representative for Colebrook, Rob Jerram – Representing New Hartford, Noel Gauthier – Representing New Hartford, Terri Kenneson – Representing Colebrook, and Deb Bell representative for Norfolk. Not in attendance were Mark Lanctot – Representing Barkhamsted, and Lindsay Humphrey (Senior) and Erika Gentile (Junior), representing the Regional 7 High School student body. School was not in session on the day of the meeting and the student representatives are not required to attend on no-school days.

Following are some of the agenda items discussed at the meeting. For the official minutes of this meeting, when they become available, please visit the Board of Education section of the Regional #7 website.

5. Old Business

5.1 CIAC Update

Molly Sexton Read, announced that the Football co-op existing between Northwestern Regional #7 and the Gilbert High School has been approved by the CIAC (Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference) for another 2 years. Regional is at 30 players, 2 shy of the 32 players that would determine a phase out of the co-op. This allows the Gilbert-Northwestern Regional Yellowjackets to continue to play ball as long as a good faith effort is demonstrated by the schools to adhere to the regulations regarding football co-ops in Connecticut. Should the number of Regional #7 players swell above the 32 mark, the schools are obligated to create their own programs. Another way to calculate the maximum number of players from one of the schools in the co-op is if there are more than 25 upperclassmen. If Regional does reach the maximum number of players, an appeals process will buy some time while the schools determine a course of action. Molly added that the CIAC is willing to work with them. Board members acknowledged the logistics of creating their own team is a huge undertaking which would involve land aquisition, building a field, equipment, etc. Molly told the Board that she, Judy and Fred will be meeting with the Wolverines in order to learn how many of their players are from Regional’s member towns.

4. Reports

Principals’ Reports

Superintendent Judith Palmer announced that Middle School Principal, Althea “Candy” Perez, was bestowed the Connecticut Pathfinder Award by the National Association for Girls and Women’s Sports, an association of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Each state recognizes one Pathfinder every year. Candy was praised as “… truly a leader, a ground breaker and a woman who opened pathways and made inroads in athletics for hundreds of Connecticut’s young women. She has helped to create an environment of equality, access and achievement that most of our young women take for granted”.

Candy will receive her award at the National Convention and Exposition of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance in March 2012 in Boston and will be recognized at the Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance on November 17, 2011 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell.

In her report Candy said that the Middle School Open House held 2 weeks ago was well attended and that on November 7 and 8, they will be holding a Parents conference night. Middle school Students will once again be greeting veterans at the Dunkin Donuts on Route 44 on Veterans Day and thanking them for their services rendered for our country.

Candy also stated that P.D (Professional Development) days went very well with much focus on how to improve writing skills, the inclusion of special education students into the school’s mainstream and a close look at the advances in technology as it will be carefully integrated into the school’s curriculum.

Ken Chichester, Principal of Regional #7 High School, expressed his pleasure at the High School’s receiving the Silver Medal Award from U.S. News and World Report as a top ranking High School in the United States. This is the second time Regional #7 High School has achieved this honor, the first time being in 2009; more about this honor in the Superintendent’s report below.

Ken’s excitement about the school’s first Robotics program was clearly evident and he said that 28 students are currently signed up to meet the technological challenge. The school received a $35,000 grant from Alcoa and the Robotics team will be lead by an engineer from Alcoa as well; four or five other parents, teachers and area techies will also act as mentors for the students. The official opening of the Robotics season is January 7 and the students will have 6 weeks to design and build a robot that will carry out a specific task. The robot will then be put to the test in regional competitions starting in March, which may lead to state, national and perhaps, even world finals! Read more about this in the Superintendent’s report.

Suprintendent’s Report

Superintendent Judith Palmer, elaborated more on the Regional #7 High School’s prestigious Silver Medal Award from U.S. News and World Reports as one of the top ranked High Schools in the nation. Of 21,786 High Schools in the 48 contiguous states, Northwestern Regional High School #7 was among 461 high schools which shared Silver Medal Honors and was one of 12 High Schools in Connecticut given this esteemed award. The award was based on students’ test scores being better than average statewide, the percentage of academically disadvantaged students and the High School’s college readiness and AP test performance. This is the second time that Regional #7 has been given the distinction. The school was awarded a Silver Medal in 2009 as well. For more information on our nation’s top High Schools, go to: http://education.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-high-schools.

Judith also gave an update on the Technology Committee’s goal to start phasing in a technology-driven curriculum beginning next school year. Discussions about “bring your own device,” and the pros and cons are being explored as the school moves toward using technology for study and not restricting it. Issues of budget, curriculum and instructional modeling need to be addressed as well as teacher development of how to best implement technology in a meaningful and efficient manner. Electronic textbooks would replace traditional books and a centralized learning management center would provide wireless curriculum, relative to the class that is being taught. Judith stated, “The trend toward technology driven learning is why Regional 7 should be making ready for the changes coming… but slowly and thoughtfully. There are many layers to take into consideration.”

Judith also announced that a delegation of 23 students from the Northwestern Regional FFA Chapter (Future Farmers of America) are going to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana this October. It will be the largest group of Northwestern’s students ever to attend the Agri-Science Fair. Two of the students, Brigette Holm and Stephanie Thibault, will be receiving their degrees and another 4 students will be competing in the Agri-Science Fair Career Development event.

Director of Finance

Roger Newbury, Director of Finance, reported that the year’s supply of diesel fuel has been purchased at a locked in rate of $3.15 per gallon and will be paid out at the time of delivery.

Northwestern Regional #7. Photo from NewHartfordPlus archives

__________________

The agenda for the meeting reported on above was the following:

REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 7 • BOARD OF EDUCATION

AGENDA
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 – 6:00 p.m.

Newbury Library-Media Center • Northwestern Regional High School\Middle School

Goals for Regional School District No. 7 Board of Education 2011-2012:
To stay abreast of 21st Century teaching and learning technologies that will equip students for future success.
To ensure existing programs, staffing needs and resources remain appropriate for Regional School District No. 7.
To continually assess Board of Education organization and operations.
To continue to expand and enhance communication to the public and community.
To continue to pursue advocacy for public education.

CALL TO ORDER

2.0 PUBLIC PORTION
2.1 Opportunity for Public to Speak on Agenda Items

3.0 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
3.1 Minutes – September 14, 2011

4.0 REPORTS
4.1 Student Representatives Reports – L. Humphrey, E. Gentile
4.2 Principals’ Reports – C. Perez, K. Chichester
4.3 Superintendent’s Report – J. Palmer
4.4 Director of Finance and Operations’ Report – R. Newbury

5.0 OLD BUSINESS
5.0 Updates
5.1 – CIAC Update – M. Sexton Read

6.0 NEW BUSINESS
6.1 Policy Review – 5131.911 Bullying (First Reading) – J. Palmer
6.1 Robotics Club – J. Palmer

7.0 CORRESPONDENCE

8.0 OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC TO SPEAK ON AGENDA ITEMS

9.0 EXECUTIVE SESSION
9.1 Negotiations

10.0 POSSIBLE ACTION ON EXECUTIVE SESSION ITEMS

11.0 ADJOURNMENT

By: Andrew Pelletier

Welcome to the second edition of the Upper Farmington Sportsman’s Journal. For October, we’ll take a look at our area’s growing moose population and we’ll take a quick look at what October has to offer local hunters. We’ll share another wild game recipe you hunters who are beating the brush with dogs for pheasant will surely enjoy, and we’ll see what October has to offer our die-hard anglers in local waters. Grab a cup of coffee, put another log in the stove and enjoy this month’s edition of Upper Farmington Sportsman’s Journal.

Some Thoughts On Our Growing Moose Population And Some Shared Encounters…

Last week as I drove west on Route 44 past the junction of 179 in Canton, I caught a glimpse of a large, dark form between the clap of wipers on a rain soaked windshield. As I got closer, there in the Bristol’s Wild Carrot Farm field was a handsome young bull moose with a decent set of antlers. He was making his way toward the highway and the Farmington River on the other side. Fearing for the animal’s safety and the safety of fellow motorists using the highway at 7:45 that morning, I decided it would be best not to stop. A moose has the knack of creating a gaggle of rubber-neckers, and rightly so, but it also creates a dangerous situation for beast and commuter alike.

Since I’ve moved to West Hartland, moose capitol of Connecticut, 12 years ago, I have had 9 moose encounters. Sadly, two of those encounters were with bull moose with very impressive racks that were being hauled away by MDC and DEP officials on heavy-duty flatbed trailers. Both animals were victims of moose versus vehicle collisions. The drivers’ vehicles did not fair so well either and the motorists were lucky to survive with minor injuries.

Moose tracks

From the end of September through October we see a drastic increase in moose activity. The bulls are ranging far and wide in search of receptive females and that means more road crossings. Be on the alert when you are driving through rural areas near lakes, reservoirs and rivers, especially at night. Moose are very tall creatures with very slender legs and a vehicle’s headlights will be focused under the animal’s belly. The telltale reflection of their eyes will not be easily seen either because they are so tall. Most human fatalities that occur are from when the moose ends up coming through the windshield;  I’ll spare you the graphic details of what a 1,000-pound animal will do when it comes through a windshield. Your best defense is to slow down and remain alert and aware when traveling rural roads at night.

Moose calf

My first encounter with a Connecticut moose happened in the Tunxis State Forest while picking blackberries on a fire road; see the story I submitted in 2002 to “Connecticut Wildlife,” page 12 of the November/December edition.  The majority of my sightings have been in West Hartland. One morning, heading eastbound on Route 20 at the top of Barkhamsted Reservoir, I encountered a huge bull moose with enormous antlers who ran for 1/3 mile alongside my car in the westbound lane before veering off into the woods! I also captured a picture of a moose calf which took advantage of the buffet in my backyard. The calf’s mother was around because I found her hoof prints where the calf kept looking up the hill at her as it fed. The photo included in this report is blurry, but it leaves no doubt, these huge animals are here and their numbers are growing. It’s always enthralling to see these creatures, but even more so when you get to see them here in Connecticut. Remember these are wild animals and they will turn on you if they feel threatened. Use common sense and park your vehicle safely off the highway if you are lucky enough to have an encounter with one of these most majestic animals. I also do a lot of fly fishing and moose watching in Pittsburg, New Hampshire on the Canadian border and I caught this encounter on my video camera and posted it to YouTube, set to Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.

Hunting

What’s In Season For October?

For current licensing, permits, bag limits, hunting areas and special conditions go to www.ct.gov/dep/hunting.

Fall Archery Deer and Turkey season is in full swing as of the posting of this report.

Fall Firearms Turkey started on October 1st and is open until October 31st.

Upland Bird Hunting

Pheasant image from internet

Pheasant starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st (a series of pheasant tags are required to hunt pheasants)

Ruffed Grouse starts on October 15th and ends on November 30th (Hunters should think about NOT hunting grouse due to depleted grouse populations statewide)

Quail starts on October 15th and ends on October 29th

Chukar Partridge starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Crow starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Waterfowl Hunting (Season dates are relative to the AP unit local for NewHartfordPlus waterfowl hunters)

Requires a Valid Federal and State Waterfowl stamp as well as a CT H.I.P. Permit.  For more Waterfowling info. go to: www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2700&q=323426&depNav_GID=1633#WFSEAS

Ducks, Merganzers and Coots Early season starts on October 12th and ends on October 22nd. Late season starts on November 9th and ends on January 5th

Canadian Geese Early season starts on October 31st and ends on November 5th. Late season starts on November 9th and ends on January 5th

Snow and Blue Geese Early season starts on October 1st and ends on January 14th. Late season starts on February 22nd and ends on March 10th

Woodcock and Snipe Season starts on October 27th and ends on December 10th.

Small Game Hunting

Grey Squirrel Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Cottontail Rabbit Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Snowshoe Hare Season starts on November 19th and ends on December 31st

European Hare Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Woodchuck Season starts on October 15th and ends on November 15th.

Fox And Coyote Hunting

Red and Grey Fox Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Coyote Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st.

Raccoon And Opossum Hunting

Raccoon Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st

Opossum Season starts on October 15th and ends on December 31st.

Know and completely understand all hunting regulations BEFORE you head out!!!! Questions? Go to www.ct.gov/dep/hunting

Local Hunting Areas

Maps for most of these areas can be found at www.ct.gov/dep/hunting.

• State Land
• People’s State Forest – Barkhamsted (2942 acres)
• American Legion State Forest – Barkhamsted (1037 acres)
• Nepaug State Forest – New Hartford (1367 acres)
• Tunxis State Forest – Hartland (9518 acres)
• Wildlife Management Areas
• Cedar Swamp WMA – New Hartford/Torrington (278 acres)
• Roraback WMA – Harwinton (1975 acres) – added at the request of NHPlus reader, Brian Sikorski. Thanks, Brian!
• State Leased and Public Access Areas
• MDC – Greenwoods Pond – New Hartford (400 acres)
• MDC -Colebrook Reservoir/ Hogback Dam – Colebrook/Hartland, etc. (4159 acres)

Wild Game Cookery

Ah, the blessed days of October and the crisp, pleasant days spent afield. Working the dog through the middle of a thicket or corn stubble and that perfect moment of filtered sunlight dappled on the back of your Brittany, locked in a classic point. The scene burns into memory and you almost forget you’re hunting when the big rooster whirrs toward the blue, cackling. The report of the double, the smell of spent powder and fallen leaves and earth and the vision of your Brittany, dutifully retrieving the beautiful bird to your hand…

Here’s a recipe that’s not very fancy but is delicious and easy:

Aunt Shelly’s Far-Out, Double-Dipped Pheasant Cutlets

4 Pheasant Breasts
Progresso or 4C seasoned bread crumbs
Panko
Eggs
Vegatable or Peanut Oil

Split the breasts and remove the tenders from each side and put aside. Put one side of the breast in an unzipped zip lock bag and with a meat mallet, pound the breast out to roughly half an inch. Slice the breast into strips and repeat with the remaining breast halves.

Beat 3 eggs with a fork and dip the tenders and strips in the egg. In a large bowl combine equal parts bread crumbs and panko and coat the egg-dipped breast strips with the bread crumb mixture. Now re-dip the coated pheasant in egg, return to the bread crumb mixture and put on a plate or paper towel. Repeat with the rest of the tenders and strips while about 2 inches of vegetable or peanut oil heats to about 350º in a deep skillet.

Place the breaded pheasant in the skillet but don’t crowd them. Let them fry for 3 minutes on one side then flip the cutlets and fry for 2 -3 minutes more or until crispy and golden brown. Remove the cutlets to a platter lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil and continue frying small batches until they’re all done.

Serve with buttered egg noodles and corn. If there are leftovers put them in the fridge and you’ll find that they’re as equally delicious, cold, the next day. No pheasant?? Chicken works just as well! Try it:  You’ll like it!

Fishing

October is a great time to be out on the Farmington River casting to trout that are feeding in earnest with the approach of winter.  The Farmington, fortunately, is a year-round fishery due to the fact that its headwaters begin deep beneath the Hogback Reservoir which stays a fairly consistent temperature. Last week I saw that the stocking trucks were making their rounds between the iron bridge in Pleasant Valley all the way up to, and beyond, Riverton. The heavy rains of late will also have redistributed many holdover trout throughout the river system that should create some great sport once the river recedes a bit.

If I’m out for sport you’ll see me with fly rod in hand, casting hopper patterns or streamers. However, if you see me with a cooler and my spinning rod, that means I’m looking to put some trout in the smoker. My favorite lure to use for spinning this time of year is a 4″ floating Rapala in black and silver with the middle trebles removed. I’ll usually cast slightly upstream, diagonal to my position and with quick, short twitches of the rod tip, make the lure dive and dart just below the surface like a wounded or panicked baitfish. The trout will usually smash the lure with gusto and because it is a large lure, usually the largest trout in the pool respond. When I catch a trout I quickly dispatch them with a homemade trout “priest”, fashioned from a broken drumstick, then I gut them and put them on ice in the cooler. Trout cared for in this manner are of the finest eating quality. Most people who don’t like trout have only eaten those left on a stringer to die. That’s a sad end to such a noble and delicious fish.

When I get the trout home I remove the back bone and ribs and “butterfly” the trout, then put them in a brine of 1 cup salt, 1 cup sugar and 1 quart of water. I let them sit overnight in the brine then take them out and dry them with a clean dishtowel. Then I’ll season them with thyme, tarragon and pepper and leave them out to dry for an hour or so. I start the smoker with a pan of alder and then a second pan of maple and smoke them for 4 hours or more depending on the size of the trout. When smoking is done, I’ll usually take two smoked filets and put them in a food processor and add a package of Philly Cream Cheese. I’ll blend that until it’s smooth and toast up a sesame bagel and spread it on the bagel. Then I’ll slice some of the smoked trout filet and put that on top of the bagel along with some thinly sliced red onion. Try it out and Im sure I’ll be seeing you on the river more often!

Share Your Photos And Experiences With Us!

We encourage those who hunt, fish or observe wildlife to share their pictures and stories with us and other readers. Please send your photos and/or stories to: newhartfordplus@gmail.com, attention: Andrew Pelletier, and we’ll be happy to post them in future editions of The Upper Farmington Sportsman’s Journal.

We wish all of you a safe and successful season!

Moose encounter in Hartland. Photo by Andrew Pelletier

St. John’s Throws A Party In The Park – And You’re Invited

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The members of St. John’s are throwing a Party In The Park this Friday evening and they’re inviting everyone in the community to join them. The party, which is being held at Berkshire Hall at Brodie Park this coming Friday evening, September 30, kicks off at 6 p.m. and includes live music and food, as well as two Auctions for double the fun!

Click to see full catalog

• The first auction is a Silent Auction where bidders can outbid each other by writing a higher bid than is already written on a card.  Some of the terrific items included in the Silent Auction are a $50 gas card, two bottles of wine and Waterford wine stoppers, a floral wall tapestry and much more.  The Silent auction ends at 8 p.m., a little before the beginning of the Live Auction.
• The Live Auction begins at 8:30 p.m. and the items included are just amazing: a week at a condo in Florida, a week at a timeshare in Mexico, a week’s stay at a vintage home at a beach in Massachusetts, “shore to shore” dining at West Hill Pond.  And these are only a few of the items.

Need another good reason to party with St. John’s?: The proceeds from the Party in the Park Fundraiser will benefit both St. John’s community programs as well as the Neighbor to Neighbor Fund, a recently-established fund which provides help to those in need in our community. It doesn’t get any better. Hope to see you all at this Friday’s Party in the Park!

Tickets for the Party In The Park are $25 per person, with tickets available at the door.  To check out the complete list of items in both auctions, how to bid, etc. download the Auction catalog posted on St. John’s website.  If you have questions, please call the office at St. John’s Episcopal Church at 860-379-3062.

Annual Farmington River Clean-Up Saturday: Join A Group, Form A Group

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The following is from the Events section of the Farmington River Watershed Association website:

FRWA’s 24th Annual Farmington River Clean-up is set for Saturday, October 1st, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Clean-up is a great community event designed to get people and groups of all ages involved in cleaning up litter along the banks of the Farmington River and its tributaries. Several meeting sites will be actively cleaning the banks of the River in Avon, Barkhamsted, Burlington, Farmington, Granby, and Simsbury. After the Clean-up, volunteers are invited to FRWA’s headquarters for a family picnic where refreshments, sandwiches and pizza will be served. In addition, FRWA will pick the winner of the Guild Guitar Raffle.

For more information on how you can help with the Farmington River Clean-up and to register for a specific site, please call FRWA at (860)-658-4442, extension 0.

70+ Years Of Bean Hole Bean Suppers At Pleasant Valley Church

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Sometime in the 1930s, according to an old Hartford Courant story, the men at the Pleasant Valley Methodist Church decided they would cook some bean hole beans for a church supper and they’ve never looked back. More than 70 years later, the men are still cooking the beans underground in a pit in a corner of the church’s parking lot, just as they did all those years ago. The bean hole suppers have proved so popular that the church now holds them three times a year, one in spring and two in the fall, with three seatings at each supper, one at 5 p.m., one at 6 p.m. and the last at 7 p.m.

This past Saturday the first of the two fall suppers was held and the NewHartfordPlus crew was lucky enough to get two seats at the 7 p.m. seating – both the 5 p.m. and the 6 p.m. having sold out – and the meal they had was the best in recent memory. The beans were just delicious and they could have been a meal all by themselves but there was also deli ham, fresh dinner rolls, homemade potato salad and cole slaw to round out the supper. And for dessert, a homemade apple crisp was the perfect ending to this fall feast. The supper was served family style, with the conversation flowing pleasantly among those seated by chance at the same long table. The evening was one of great food and community, served up by the members of the Pleasant Valley Methodist Church. This is one tradition that surely will continue well into the future.

The second fall Bean Hole Bean Supper will be held on Saturday, October 29. Be sure to reserve your seat early by calling 860-379-9398. For more information, please visit the Bean Hole Suppers section of the Pleasant Valley Church’s website.

To learn more about the history of traditional bean hole beans and how to cook them, see Common Ground’s Bean Hole Beans article.

A large group of young people provided impeccable service at the supper. Photo: Maria Moore

The men of the church serving up beans that had been cooked underground in a bean hole. Photo: Maria Moore

The bean hole pit in the corner of the church parking lot where the pots of beans are cooked underground. Photo: Maria Moore

We received an electronic copy of the Region 7 Study Committee Report On The Addition Of Grades K-6 to Regional # 7 (aka Regionalization study) and we are making this copy available on NHPlus.  There are four downloadable files as follows:

File # 1: Region 7 Expansion Study Committee Report (62).  The report includes the following section with the corresponding page number in the report:

Cover

1.0  Introduction, p. 1

1.1 Background

1.2 Statutory Process

1.3 Acknowledgements

2.0  Recommendations, p. 1

2.1 Recommendation, p. 1

2.2 Summary Rationale, p. 2

2.3 Cost Differences Between Towns, p. 2

2.4 Cost Differences Between Regions, p.3

2.5 Test Score Comparisons, p.4

2.6 Alternative Recommendations, p.4

3.0 Region 7 Today, p. 5

3.1 Town Profiles

3.2 School Profies

3.3 Curriculum

4.0 Coordinating Council, Curriculum Council & Shared Services, p. 7

4.1 Overview, p. 7

4.2 Regional Superintendents Coordinating Council, p. 8

4.3 K-12 Curriculum Council, p. 8

4.4 Shared Services, p. 8

5.0 Regionalization Issues & Opportunities, p. 9

5.1 Facilities Consolidation, p. 9

5.2 Staffing, p. 9 (page 11)

5.3 State Aid, p. 10 (page 12)

5.4 Contracts, p. 10 (page 12)

5.5 Corporate Governance, p. 11 (page 13)

5.6 Facilities, p. 11 (page 13)

File # 2: Region # 7 Study Committee Report: Appendices, 6.1-6.12 (40) (list of individual documents to be added]

File # 3: Regional # 7 Study Committee Report: Appendix 6.13 (40)

Regional Superintendents Coordinating Council

File # 4: Regional # 7 Study Committee Report: Appendix 6.14 (39)

Committee Members

Presentation of Region # 7 Study Committee Report

The Study Committee Report was presented to the Northwestern Regional # 7 Board of Ed on September 14; see Andrew Pelletier’s report on that meeting.  The Report is also being presented individually to the Region # 7 member towns.  In New Hartford the report will be presented at a joint meeting of the Board of Ed and the Board of Finance.  The date of that meeting has yet to be announced.  We will post that meeting date as soon as it becomes available.

By: Andrew Pelletier

When the Hitchcock Chair Company closed its doors back in 2006, many feared it was the end of an era for this quintessential New England village. However, according to co-owners Rick Swenson and Gary Hath, the Hitchcock Chair factory is “back and very much alive.” A grand re-opening scheduled for this Labor Day weekend commenced on Friday night with a party for guests, family and loyal customers. Saturday began a three-day, traditional Hitchcock barn sale on the Riverton Fairgrounds. “The response has been better than expected,” said Gary Hath. Some Hitchcock furniture enthusiasts were literally moved to tears at the news of their triumphant return. The Hitchcock Chair Company traditionally had three barn sales a year and Gary explained they felt that a traditional barn sale would lend an air of nostalgia for delighted returning customers. “The Hitchcock name carries a certain cachet that sets it apart from other furniture retailers.”  Gary stated, pointing out that the Hitchcock name is synonymous with family heirloom-quality furniture.

In March of 2010, Rick Swenson and Gary Hath purchased the rights to use the Hitchcock Chair Company name and they are currently manufacturing chairs and providing restoration services in a shop in the back of Still River Antiques on Route 20 in Riverton. They are also utilizing 5,000 square feet of space at the Whiting Mills in Winsted to produce their larger pieces such as hutches, dining tables and benches. They currently employ six furniture craftspeople, five of whom were Hitchcock employees before the company closed its doors five years ago; some were employees as far back as 45 years ago.

Rick Swenson said it took a while to develop a business strategy and they set up their first public display booth at the Riverton Fair in October last year. He was encouraged to see the good number of customers who came out on Saturday and there were quite a few sales, which gave them a feel for what pieces, styles and finishes are popular. They also took special orders for their sought-after seasonal collectors’ pieces for Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Reconnections are also being made with the very same distributors that once proudly carried the Hitchcock name and new connections are being forged with potential furniture retailers. Rick stated that November is the target month to have enough inventory to begin wholesale business with these distributors.

Rick and Gary’s vision is to keep the production strictly American-made and as local as possible, utilizing some of the same people who have worked for and provided the Hitchcock Chair Company with expert craftsmanship and a standard of excellence that is not often found in modern furniture making. Rick has been quoted as saying, “So many furniture makers are closing or going overseas, we feel like we’re stepping up and investing in our heritage.” When asked where they see themselves in 10 years, Rick and Gary said they certainly hope to hire more craftspeople and salespeople. As the business thrives and grows, they hope that new generations, as well as those who already know the Hitchcock name, will make the scenic drive through the beautiful countryside and along the river, to become a part of the Hitchcock tradition in Riverton.

Special Grand Re-Opening Events

Gary Hath, co-owner of the Hitchcock Chair Company

On Sunday and Monday there will be a chair rushing demonstration by Philomena Calabrese, who rushed chairs with the Hitchcock chair company for 40 years and has now worked for the Swensons for five years. The Hitchcock Chair Company’s rushes are the female leaves of cattail plants that are farm-raised in upstate New York by the same supplier since 1948.

Also on Sunday and Monday, there will be stenciling demonstrations by Lorraine Lacasse, who is a well-known local artist. Lorraine stenciled the ornate designs for the Hitchcock Chair Company for 45 years and has worked with the Swensons for the past five years. Some of the stencils, especially the holiday designs, are quite intricate and utilize over a dozen different stencils before it is complete.

The Hitchcock Chair factory store is located at 13 Riverton Road in Riverton, CT. Hours are Monday through Friday from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. For more information, please call the factory store at 860-738-9958, or visit the following websites: stillriverantiques.com and hitchcockchair.com.

A brief history of the Hitchcock Chair Factory

Lambert Hitchcock built his water-powered mill and began making Sheraton-style chairs and cabinet furniture in 1825, in what was known then as Hitchcocksville. Employing 100 persons, manufacturing persisted until the Civil War when the name of the town was changed to Riverton. With the bulk of raw materials going to the war effort, the Hitchcock Chair Company went out of business for the next 80 years. It wasn’t until early 1940 that John Kenney became interested in the building while he fished for trout in the river that once powered the mill. He reopened the mill using modern industrial tools and manufacturing continued all the way up to 2006. Competition with inferior overseas product forced the Hitchcock factory to close its doors once again. Enter Rick Swenson and Gary Hath. Rick was a Hitchcock factory-trained restoration technician and 5 months after the Hitchcock Chair Company shut their doors in April, 2006, Rick opened Still River Antiques with his wife Nancy, and continued restoring and selling vintage Hitchcock furniture. Business was good and profit was made each year they were open. Then, In March of 2010, Rick Swenson, and co-owner Gary Hath purchased the rights to the Hitchcock name to revive the historic furniture manufacturer once again.

Traditional dining room furnished with Hitchcock furniture. Photo: Andrew Pelletier

From left, Maryanne Hath (Gary's wife), Rick Swenson and Nancy Swenson. Photo: Andrew Pelletier

Both Northwestern Regional # 7 and New Hartford Public schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, August 29, due to Hurricane Irene. Students will begin school on Tuesday, August 30 as scheduled. Following are the messages we received from Superintendents Palmer and O’Reilly.

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Northwestern Regional # 7 Closed Monday, Aug. 29

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We received the following ALERTNow message from Superintendent Judy Palmer of Northwestern Regional # 7 this past Thursday, August 26, announcing that NWR7 will be closed on Monday August 29, due to Hurricane Irene:

Good morning everyone,

Welcome back to school! It looks like Irene will make the start of the 2011-2012 school year a memorable one!

Before I go there though, I would like to acknowledge the hard work of our maintenance staff over the summer. They did an outstanding job cleaning and our schools look terrific.

It’s always nice to have the students back in the building. They have been filtering in throughout the week and the band has been practicing. Based on what I have heard from the drummers, I would say they “haven’t skipped a beat.” They sound wonderful!

Now, on to Irene! It is likely that Governor Malloy will make a “State of Emergency” announcement which will shut down the state on Monday. If the teachers’ Professional Development Day is canceled, it will NOT affect the start of school on Tuesday.

I have already made contact with each of the road crews in our four towns. I will remain in communication with them over the weekend to be sure the roads are passable for the start of school on Tuesday.

I am concerned that wide spread power outages will impede my ability to communicate with you effectively through the use of Alert Now. I will make every attempt to notify you on Monday evening if there is a need to cancel school on Tuesday.

However, if I am unable to do so due loss of power, please rely on WTIC AM 1080 and WZBG 97.3 FM radio stations for updates. We will also post information on television stations for those who have power.

One last thing, we do not have all of the 7th grade parents emails in our system yet. Would you please forward this message to any 7th grade parent you know, and ask them to do the same? Thank you for your assistance.

Please stay safe and be sure you have everything you need for an extended period without power.

Despite Irene, I look forward to welcoming our students back for another wonderful school year.

Judy Palmer, Superintendent
Regional School District No. 7

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New Hartford Public Schools Closed Tomorrow, Monday, August 29

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We received the following ALERTNow message from Dr. Philip O’Reilly, Superintendent of New Hartford Public Schools, this past Friday, August 27, announcing that New Hartford Schools will be closed on Monday, August 29:

Dear Parents and Staff:

The New Hartford Public Schools will be closed this Monday, due to the projections for the path and intensity of Hurricane Irene. At this time all children will report to school on Tuesday as originally scheduled.

I am concerned that wide spread power outages will impede my ability to communicate with you effectively through the use of AlertNow. I will make every attempt to notify you IF there is a need to cancel school on Tuesday.

However, if I am unable to do so due loss of power, please rely on WTIC AM 1080 and WZBG 97.3 FM radio stations for updates. We will also post information on television stations for those who have power.

Be well,

Philip B. O’Reilly,
Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

Kids on the swing set at Callahan Park with a fallen tree behind them on Sunday afternoon after Hurricane Irene struck New Hartford. Photo: Maria Moore

We received the following hurricane update at 2:30 p.m. this afternoon, August 28,  from First Selectman Don Stein of Barkhamsted while were out about town covering the hurricane.  Apologies for the delay in posting this update:

For the moment, the rain seems to have stopped, but a number of roads are currently closed. This list is subject to change at any time, so please drive carefully if you must go out. Allow extra time for detours and, if you don’t have to go out, please stay home and stay safe.

The worst situation is that Park Road is closed between Day Road and Slade Road, as the Beaver Brook bridge washed out. This section will be closed until the bridge can be replaced.Therefore, the closure is indefinite at this time.

Other roads currently closed are West River Road – closed due to water over road north of residences in Pleasant Valley (near Ameridan Legion Forest); Eddy Road – closed due to water over road and trees down near intersection with Heather Hill; Park Road at Day and Center Hill – trees down; West West Hill Road by Route 44 – electric lines down; Ripley Hill Road – tree down across road.

The town, CL&P and the CT DOT will be working to get roads open as soon as possible, but the unknown is additional wind and rain later today, which could close other town or state roads. Hopefully, the roads with water across them will be open as the streams start to recede.

I will try to update the “Town of Barkhamsted” Facebook page with information as it becomes available.

We do not currently have an open shelter, but arrangements can be made if you are in need. Call me at 860-605-7380 for assistance.

I would like to thank all of the volunteers, particularly the three Fire Departments who support the town so tirelessly, and who have been on duty since early this morning. The town and its residents owe them all a great big thank you for their hard work and dedication.

Regards,

Don

The west branch of the Farmington River looking west from the Route 219 bridge in New Hartford towards Barkhamsted. Photo: Maria Moore

Sunday, Aug. 28

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9:55 a.m.: Woke up a short while ago to find no power in the house. The brook is now ROARING, bigger than it has been in years. After a short conference we have reached some very important conclusions:

1. We have the mifi so we’re online
2. We have a car charger so we can work in the site through the day, hopefully until power is returned
3. We can make coffee with our charger!

Good to go at NHPlus Center.

Send us a comment to let us know how you’re doing!
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Barkhamsted Hurricane Update

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We received the following email from Don Stein, First Selectman of Barkhamsted this afternoon, with a hurricane update and with the designated emergency shelters in Barkhamsted:

Hurricane Update:

Based on the latest weather forecast and information provided by the CT state agencies, the upcoming storm has the potential to be very significant. As a minimum, it will contain high winds and very heavy rain starting late tonight through tomorrow afternoon. If you encounter an emergency situation, please call 911. If your power goes out, please report it to CL&P at 800-286-2000 or by logging on to their website www.cl-p.com. Information on the storm is also available by dialing 211, at ct.gov/irene or on most of the local radio and television stations.

At this time, the Town has not opened any shelters, but will open them if there is a need. The town shelters are Barkhamsted East Fire Department and the Barkhamsted Elementary School. If you need more information on the status of shelters or if you are someone with special needs, please call me at 860-605-7380.

I will try to update the website (www.barkhamsted.us) and Facebook (Town of Barkhamsted) as more information becomes available, assuming I can access the Internet.

I hope everyone stays safe during the hurricane.

Regards,
Don

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Barkhamsted Fire District Website

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The Barkhamsted Fire District has posted information on its website relating to Hurricane Irene and the preparedness of its three fire stations, Barkhamsted East, Pleasant Valley and Riverton. The site was last updated at 8 p.m., Saturday, August 27.

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New Hartford Hurricane Update

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The following is information posted on the Town of New Hartford website:

RESIDENTS- The decision to activate an Emergency Shelter in New Hartford will be made by the Emergency Managment Director following consultation with Emergency Service Personnel and the First Selectman. An emergency shelter will be opened if conditions warrant the use of one. Conditions that would require activation include widespread evacuation of residents and widespread SUSTAINED power outages. Residents who feel threatened should make arrangements for their own safety and seek shelter with friends, relatives, etc.

Infoline (211) will be notified in the event of a shelter opening. Please use 211 as your source for shelter information.

PLEASE make every effort to keep yourselves informed of conditions around you and take all appropriate actions to keep yourselves safe!

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Torrington Designates Emergency Shelters

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According to a news report on the Register Citizen website, Torrington has designated four emergency evacuation sites:

• Torrington Middle School
• Vogel-Wetmore School
• The Sullivan Senior Center
• Torrington Community Soup Kitchen

The Northwest Transit system will also be offering transportation.

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United Way 2-1-1 Emergency Shelter Listing

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The United Way Infoline (2-1-1) website has posted a list of emergency shelters that have been designated around the state to handle emergency evacuations related to Hurricane Irene.  Download a copy of that list we printed at 9 p.m., Saturday, August 27: Hurricane Irene Shelter Listings, United Way 2-1-1 (55).

The North Congregational Church's Peach Fest tent was still serving up peach shortcake and selling peach pies on Saturday - much to our photographer's delight - despite the torrential rain preceding Hurricane Irene. Photo: Maria Moore

Les Archer, Animal Control Officer of both New Hartford and Barkhamsted forwarded to us the following request for help in locating Harley, missing from his home in Riverton since this past Monday, April 25:

Please help! My dog went missing Monday morning and hasn’t come home. I was hoping I could get some help in finding him. He was last seen in Riverton, CT. He responds to the name Harley. He’s a black and white Newfoundland.
Thank you,

Brittany T.

If you have any information about Harley’s whereabouts, please contact Les Archer, Animal Control Officer (New Hartford and Barkhamsted) at 860-309-7228 or email Les at k9.control@yahoo.com.

Harley is missing from his home in Riverton since Monday, April 28.

REWARD IF FOUND:

Murray the Border Collie, an important member of the NewHartfordPlus Crew, is offering a $25 REWARD for information leading to the safe return of Harley to his family. Please mention “Murray” to Les when you pass on information to him that leads to Harley’s safe return to his family and the NewhartfordPlus Crew will gladly pay the reward. Thanks for your help in reuniting Brittany and Harley.

We received an email from Don Stein yesterday afternoon announcing that the Riverton Post Office is no longer in the U.S. Post Office’s sights for potential closure:

I have just received word that the U.S. Postal Service has cancelled the meeting scheduled for tomorrow evening (Wednesday, April 20) at the Riverton Fire House. The regional manager for the Postal Service said that they were not going to hold the meeting due to the fact that they had “tabled the study” of the Riverton Post Office.

At least for now, it appears that the Post Office in Riverton is safe.

Regards,
Don

The Riverton General Store was bustling with visitors as was the rest of the town this past Saturday, April 16, on Opening Day for trout fishing. Photo: Maria Moore

Have You Heard the News … Barkhamsted Is Getting A New Playground and They Need Your Help!

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The Barkhamsted School’s PTO is holding an old-fashioned Playground Raising at the Barkhamsted School and they are looking for help! The playground will be built on Memorial Day Weekend, May 28 through May 30, and help will be needed on each of those days to unwrap equipment, assemble equipment, check in volunteers, organize the parts/hardware table, feed the crews, spread mulch, and everything else in between!

Our reporter spoke to Barkhamsted First Selectman Don Stein who confirmed that the playground is being funded through a STEAP (Small Town Economic Advancement Program) grant. In September of 2010 Barkhamsted received over $171,000 to fund the new playground which will be handicapped accessible. There will also be drainage work done at the site, Don said.

Asked if New Hartford residents could also help out, Don said they’d be very welcome to. He reminded our reporter that when the playscape at Brodie Park was put up, residents from Barkhamsted helped out too. “It’s great to have the two town’s working together.” Don said. And in that spirit: If you’re looking for a worthwhile project to lend a hand on, mark your calendar for Memorial Day weekend to help out with the playground raising in Barkhamsted. Remember, the Antolini School playground won’t be far behind…

Following is the flyer we received looking for volunteers to help build the playground, plus a list of equipment which they’d love for you to bring along if you have it. Please note that for insurance reasons, you must be over 18 to help out.

If you’d like to help, please contact Jill Ayers at jayers@snet.net or Vicki Preato at mvtck@yahoo.com.

Photos & Text By: Maria Moore

Trout Fishing Opening Day is a HUGE day for fishermen who come back in droves to one of their favorite fishing spots in the region, the West Branch of the Farmington River. And both Barkhamsted and New Hartford, the two local communities on this part of the river, celebrated this yearly ritual with well-established – and new – events. Following is NHPlus’ photojournal of this great day on the river: cold and with rain imminent, just like the fishermen like it!

Riverton

Fishing at the Riverton Bridge

Looking down onto the fishermen in the river from the Riverton Bridge on April 16, 2011, Opening Day for the trout fishing season.

Mid-morning in the river next to the old Hitchcock Chair Factory, fishermen are still arriving to take their fishing posts.

Fishermen line the river looking east towards Pleasant Valley from the Riverton Bridge.

Fishermen at the recreation area near the Riverton Bridge.

Riverton Fishing Derby

The crowd gather for the result of the Riverton Fishing Derby at the Riverton Volunteer Fire Department.

Announcements at the Fishing Derby.

The most coveted prize: The special-edition Hitchcock chair.

The winner of the fishing derby sitting on the Hitchcock chair he won with his winning catch.

The derby winners and their prize-winning catches.

Pleasant Valley

A fisherman has a stretch of the river to himself under the Pleasant Valley Bridge which is being repaired.

A bench and a couple of chairs set up at the edge of the water "for the older ones to use" as a fisherman informed our photographer. Across the water can be seen the top of of the Pleasant Valley General Store which has just reopened as a tackle shop.

The view from River Road across to the handicapped access area for fishermen.

New Hartford

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Entering New Hartford

The Farmington River as seen at the old Greenwoods Pond location from the bank by the Hurley Building.

A view of the river flowing towards New Hartford Center as seen from the bank near the large field area at the Hurley Building on Greenwoods Road.

Side trip to Bakerville
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A side trip from the river to the Fishermen's Breakfast at the South End Volunteer Fire Department on Route 202 in Bakerville which was filled with patrons.

New Hartford Center

A boy gets a fishing lesson on the river in New Hartford Center.

Fishermen in the river seen from the Route 219 bridge in New Hartford Center.

Two fishermen receiving fishing lessons in the river near the Route 219 bridge.

Learning to cast a line.

Pine Meadow

Fisherman’s Breakfast at Pine Meadow Volunteer Fire Department

Stopping off for breakfast at the Pine Meadow Volunteer Fire Department served by the friendly crew including (not in order) Walter Wabrek, Rita Wabrek, Jeremiah Wabrek, Vanessa Wabrek, Lew Patchett, Phil Loveless, John Racloz, Amanada Loveless and Tyler O'Neill. Paul and Polly Pobuda had just left the building.

Black Bridge in Pine Meadow

Fishermen in the river as it flows towards Black Bridge from New Hartford Center.

Fishermen on the banks of the river as it flows towards Satan's Kingdom and then on to Canton - the end of our photographer's trip.

Trip ends at the Fishermen’s Lunch at the North Congregational Church

Glenn Strycharz stops by the baked goods table manned by Donna Howard and her young helper to pick up some dessert to go with the soup and sandwich lunch provided by the members of the North Congregational Church. A delicious way for our photographer to end her Opening Day adventure.

Many Thanks to the friendly people – both fishermen and non-fishermen alike – who made this trip along the West Branch of the Farmington River such a joy.

Many Thanks to the NewHartfordPlus Crew (Bob Moore and Murray the Border Collie) who turned a trip a few miles up the river into an adventure!

NHPlus crew on assignment

The following is a press release from the Department of Environmental Protection regarding the confirmation of the presence of a highly invasive freshwater alga, Didymosphenia geminata, known as “didymo” or “rock snot” in the West Branch of the Farmington River. The West Branch flows from Riverton, through Pleasant Valley and New Hartford Center and through Pine Meadow before joining with the East Branch in Puddle Town and continuing through Satan’s Kingdom to Canton as one body of water:

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced today [Tuesday, March 29], that the highly invasive freshwater alga, Didymosphenia geminata, known as “didymo”, has been discovered in the West Branch Farmington River, a very popular trout stream in northwestern Connecticut.

Didymo (New Zealand image)

The presence of didymo was first confirmed in the northeastern United States in 2007, and has since spread to other popular trout streams in a number of northeastern states (New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia). This is the first report of didymo in Connecticut.

DEP first learned of the possible presence of didymo in the West Branch Farmington River from several anglers on March 18th. One of these anglers also provided an initial sample to DEP. Following initial review by DEP staff, samples were sent to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation where biologists have direct experience identifying didymo. Late last Friday, Vermont officials confirmed that the sample was indeed didymo.

“This find is very troubling,” said DEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Frechette. “Extensive blooms of this organism can harm the river ecosystem and decrease its recreational and economic value. In an effort to confirm identification, staff from DEP’s Bureau of Water Protection and Land Reuse surveyed a number of sites in the river and a major tributary along a seven mile stretch of the West Branch Farmington River in Hartland and Barkhamsted. Unfortunately numerous clumps of didymo were found at all the surveyed sites in the river downstream of the Riverton Bridge. Once didymo has spread, there’s no practical way to remove it from a river.”

Didymo is most frequently found in cold, relatively shallow streams and rivers having a rocky bottom, characteristics that are also typical of good trout habitat. During blooms, didymo can form thick mats of material that feel like wet wool and are typically gray, white and/or brown, but never green in color. These mats form on the bottoms of rivers and streams and can potentially smother aquatic plants, aquatic insects and mollusks, impact fish habitat, and alter aquatic food chains. Dense mats of didymo can also reduce the recreational and aesthetic value of the affected river. Since didymo also prefers areas open to sunlight, it is not anticipated that this species will become problematic in smaller headwater streams as long as they have well shaded riparian and naturally forested riparian areas.

Prevent The Spread Of Didymo

Humans are the primary vector responsible for the recent spread of didymo. Anglers, kayakers and canoeists, boaters and jet skiers can all unknowingly spread didymo. The microscopic cells can cling to fishing gear, waders (felt soles can be especially problematic), boots and boats, and remain viable for months under even slightly moist conditions. To prevent the spread of didymo to additional waters, DEP asks that anglers, especially those who also fish the Farmington River or streams outside Connecticut, and other users practice CHECK, CLEAN, DRY procedures.

CHECK: Before leaving a river, stream or lake, remove all obvious clumps of algae and plant material from fishing gear, waders, clothing & footwear, canoes & kayaks, and anything else that has been in the water and look for hidden clumps. Leave them at the site. If you find any later, clean your gear and dispose of all material in the trash.

CLEAN: Soak/spray & scrub boats and all other “hard” items for at least one minute in either very hot (140°F) water, a 2% bleach solution, or a 5% dishwashing detergent solution. Absorbent materials such as clothes and felt soles on waders should be soaked for at least 40 minutes in very hot water (140°F), or 30 minutes in hot water (115°F) with 5% dishwashing detergent. Freezing thoroughly will also kill didymo.

DRY: If cleaning is not practical, after the item is completely dry to touch, wait an additional 48 hours before contact or use in any other waterway.

The above procedures will also be effective against other unwanted organisms.

Didymo is just one of a number of aquatic invasive species that have either invaded the state or are threatening to do so. DEP will continue its work to combat the spread of invasive species, focusing on prevention, education and early detection. DEP is an active member of the Invasive Plants Council and supports both an Invasive Plant Program and an Aquatic Nuisance Species Program in collaboration with the University of Connecticut. When available, DEP has provided funding from a variety of sources to educate the public on the threats posed by invasive species and to combat specific invasive species including fanwort, water chestnut and hydrilla. In addition, the DEP has recently proposed new regulations to prohibit the possession or importation into the state of a number of invasive invertebrates.

Since its discovery in the northeast in 2007, DEP has taken additional precautions to prevent the introduction and/or spread of didymo (and other invasive species). DEP’s Inland Fisheries Division instituted an operational “Biosecurity” policy for its own field operations, including elimination of the use of felt-soled waders. Also, as part of its invasive species outreach efforts, informational fliers on didymo were distributed to many of the state’s bait & tackle shops and information about didymo has been prominently displayed in the CT Anglers Guide and on its website.

Individuals wishing to report possible sightings of didymo and other aquatic nuisance species can contact DEP’s Inland Fisheries Division at 860-424-3474. More information on didymo and other aquatic nuisance species can be found on the DEP website (www.ct.gov/dep) or in the CT Angler’s Guide (www.ct.gov/dep/lib/dep/fishing/anglers_guide/anguide.pdf).

An excellent source for detailed information on didymo is the Biosecurity New Zealand web site(www.biosecurity.govt.nz/didymo).

Maps of The West Branch And East Branch In New Hartford

West Branch (Barkhamsted to New Hartford)

Click on the map above to view the original on the CT Water Trails Assoc. website

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West and East Branches of Farmington River in New Hartford
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Click on the map above to visit the CT Water Trails Assoc. website

By: Maria Moore

The Mallory Brook Plaza in Barkhamsted was open for business as usual yesterday, Saturday, February 12, after having been closed from this past Wednesday afternoon through Friday afternoon due to concerns from the snow accumulated on the roof.

The plaza was closed when employees at various businesses reported hearing creaking and cracking sounds from the roof. The Barkhamsted Building Inspector ordered the building to be evacuated until the snow was removed from the flat roof. On Friday afternoon, the snow removal had been completed and the shopping center was allowed to reopen.

On Saturday all the stores were open again for business. The NewHartfordPlus crew went to the plaza on a regular shopping trip and found the parking lot full and the businesses filled with customers, with only the large piles of snow at the building’s corners as reminders of the last several days of unusual activity.

Our reporter called Dr. Leon Reich, the New York-based owner of the plaza and left a message on his home telephone. Any additional information we may obtain in the next several days will be added to this report.

News about the closing of Mallory Brook Plaza and its reopening was first reported by the Republican American. To read Saturday’s Republican American report, see Barkhamsted shopping plaza, movies reopened after snow scare.

Mallory Brook Plaza open for business again on Saturday, February 12. Photo: Maria Moore

Another view of Mallory Brook Plaza looking towards the Tractor Supply store. Photo: Maria

Update on Town Buildings From Barkhamsted First Selectman

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Following is information we received this past Monday, February 7, from Don Stein, First Selectman of Barkhamsted, giving an update on the status of his town’s buildings:

Many of you may have heard that the Town’s salt storage building collapsed Friday afternoon. The building, which is a Quonset hut design, was constructed over 16 years ago and was nearing the end of its useful life. Quonset huts were originally developed by the U.S. Navy for storage in remote locations and have the capability to withstand harsh environments. Despite careful monitoring of the snow depth on the Town’s buildings, the snow on this aluminum structure was apparently beyond its limit. The collapse was likely due to the fact that it was corroded from its years of service.

Most importantly, no one was inside the building at the time and no one was injured. After the collapse, we immediately demolished the building for safety reasons. Regional Refuse Disposal District #1 will sell the scrap metal on behalf of the Town. The building was insured, as is all town property, and we are working with our insurance carrier to determine the replacement value. Fortunately, we were able to relocate the salt in the building to the other Quonset hut.

School Superintendent Jeff Linton and I worked together throughout the weekend to review the other buildings in town. Even though we did not believe there was any additional danger, we are using town employees and a hired contractor to remove ice and snow from the Barkhamsted School, the Town Hall, the Town Garage, the old Town Garage, the second Quonset hut, and the Senior Center.

We felt that we needed to move quickly, rather than risk any other problems with town-owned buildings.

Jeff Linton sent a note to the school community regarding the Barkhamsted School. That note, as well as this one, is posted on the Barkhamsted town website.

Please call me if you have any questions,

Don Stein,
First Selectman, Barkhamsted