The Sound

‘A’ Is for Acting

Shore Publishing — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:42:06 GMT

The Branford High School Drama Department is tackling one of the most challenging and epic plays of American theater in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. Miller’s thinly veiled critique of the communist paranoia of the 1950s is played out upon the backdrop of colonial Salem and its notorious witch hunts.

Though the students are too young to have direct experience with the Cold War, the themes still resonate with the actors, according to Director Maria Ogren. The drama has some deep messages but, because these issues remain timeless, the students learn as they perform.

“The kids are reading about these issues in class and they get it,” Ogren said. “Just because they weren’t around in the ‘50s doesn’t mean they can’t grasp what Miller was saying about humanity. The Crucible is a monument to Salem and what happened there. As long as this play is read and staged, we have a warning. We actually did this and we should think about it.”

The Crucible by Arthur Miller runs Thursday to Saturday, Dec. 4 to 6 at the Branford High School auditorium at 7:30 p.m. all three nights. Admission is $5.

- Ben Rayner

Pictured: The cast of Branford High School’s production of The Crucible rehearses the pivotal scene in which Elizabeth Proctor is charged with witchcraft and taken into custody.

Photo by Ben Rayner

Police Incident Report: Nov. 5 to 11

Shore Publishing — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:39:57 GMT

The Sound publishes a Police Incident Report to inform residents of incidents, criminal activities, and police responses occurring in Branford and North Branford. As those charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty, the report does not include names. It may be edited for length and content.

Branford

Wednesday, Nov. 5

• A 23-year-old North Branford woman was arrested at 2:12 p.m. and charged with possession of narcotics and use and/or possession of drug paraphernalia.

• A 54-year-old man and a 39-year-old woman of the same Main Street address were arrested at 8:24 p.m. and charged with disorderly conduct following a domestic dispute.

• A 44-year-old man of Todds Hill Road was issued a misdemeanor summons at 10:27 p.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension.

Thursday, Nov. 6

• A 35-year-old woman of Old Pine Orchard Road was arrested at 4:29 p.m. and charged with obtaining a controlled substance by fraud and deceit, use of a false title or document to obtain pharmaceuticals, and operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension.

• A 33-year-old Madison man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 6:41 a.m. for misuse of plate, failure to have insurance, operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

• A 28-year-old Guilford man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 12:52 a.m. for failure to have insurance and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Friday, Nov. 7

• A 43-year-old man of a Brushy Plains Road apartment was arrested at 2:27 a.m. and charged with interfering with an officer, evading responsibility in the operation of a motor vehicle following an accident in which there was property damage and/or bodily injury, a right-hand lane violation, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

• A 49-year-old North Branford man was arrested at 1:20 p.m. and charged with larceny in the sixth degree.

Saturday, Nov. 8

• A 40-year-old New Haven man was arrested at 8:10 a.m. and charged with larceny in the sixth degree.

• A 24-year-old woman of a Hamre Lane apartment was arrested at 5:58 p.m. and charged with larceny in the sixth degree.

• A 20-year-old man of an Ivy Street apartment was arrested at 9:18 p.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, failure to have insurance, and traveling too fast for conditions.

• A 33-year-old West Haven woman was issued a misdemeanor summons at 4:58 p.m. for failure to have insurance and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

• A 26-year-old New Haven man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 7:42 p.m. for misuse of plates, failure to have insurance, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Sunday, Nov. 9 to Monday, Nov. 10

No arrests were made.

Tuesday, Nov. 11

No arrests were made.

• A 60-year-old New Haven man was issued a motor vehicle summons at 5:24 p.m. for evading responsibility in the operation of a motor vehicle following an accident in which there was property damage and/or bodily injury.

• An 86-year-old Stony Creek man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 6:57 p.m. for evading responsibility in the operation of a motor vehicle following an accident in which there was property damage and/or bodily injury and failure to drive a reasonable distance apart.

From Nov. 5 to 11, Branford police also issued 28 citations for failure to obey a stop sign, 20 citations for failure to obey a control signal, seven citations for using a hand-held cell phone while driving, two citations for failure to drive a reasonable distance apart, two citations for failure to grant right of way, and one citation for traveling unreasonably fast.

North Branford

Wednesday, Nov. 5

• A 30-year-old Wallingford man was arrested at 9 a.m. on a warrant charging him with threatening and criminal violation of a protective order.

• A 20-year-old East Haven man was issued a citation at 1:36 a.m. for simple trespass.

Thursday, Nov. 6

No arrests were made.

• A 19-year-old Wallingford man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 12:37 a.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, failure to have insurance, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. He was driving a white 2000 Buick.

Friday, Nov. 7

• A 37-year-old Norwalk man was arrested at 12:25 p.m. and charged with larceny in the sixth degree, credit card theft, illegal use of credit card, and forgery in the third degree.

• An 18-year-old man of Rivaldi Drive was arrested at 10:10 p.m. and charged with criminal mischief in the second degree and breach of peace in the second degree.

• A 20-year-old East Haven woman was issued a misdemeanor summons at 9:09 a.m. for speeding at over 60 miles per hour on a road. She was driving a gray 2001 Toyota Celica.

• A 34-year-old Branford man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 2:14 p.m. for failure to have insurance and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. He was driving a blue 1982 Porsche.

Saturday, Nov. 8

• A 44-year-old man of Branford Road was arrested at 9:15 a.m. and charged with criminal mischief in the third degree and using/tampering with a motor vehicle without permission.

Sunday, Nov. 9

No arrests were made.

Monday, Nov. 10

• A 28-year-old West Haven man was arrested at 9 a.m. and charged with possession of less than four ounces of marijuana and use and/or possession of drug paraphernalia.

• An 18-year-old Branford man was arrested at 6:01 p.m. and charged with possession of less than four ounces of marijuana, use and/or possession of drug paraphernalia, traveling unreasonably fast, and illegal manufacture, sale, or distribution of a prescription drug.

• A 21-year-old Hamden woman was arrested at 10:22 p.m. and charged with possession of less than four ounces of marijuana and use and/or possession of drug paraphernalia.

Tuesday, Nov. 11

No arrests were made.

• A 23-year-old East Haven man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 11:34 p.m. for failure to have insurance, improper use of marker, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. He was driving a black 1995 Isuzu Rodeo.

From Nov. 5 to 11, North Branford police also issued 11 citations to motorists for traveling unreasonably fast, five citation for failure to drive a reasonable distance apart, two citations for operating an unregistered motor vehicle, two citations for failure to wear a seat belt in the front seat, and two citations for operating a motor vehicle without a license. One citation was issued for each of the following: operating a motor vehicle without a license, traveling too fast for conditions, speeding, failure to carry insurance papers or registration, failure to drive in the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway, and using a hand held cell phone while driving.

Police correspondent Jason J. Marchi compiles the Police Incident Report

Book It!

Shore Publishing — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:35:53 GMT

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:

NORTH BRANFORD:

When you think of the average student these days, computers, cell phones, Blackberries, and iPods come to mind, but Yale junior Basie Gitlin is bucking that stereotype. Basie placed second in the National collegiate Book-Collecting Championship and is a well-respected literary lion.

Though the end of all things printed was predicted as part of the technology boon of the late ‘90s, books, newspapers,and other print material are still hanging on, thanks in part to advocates like Basie. His love for books and collecting was established early, he says.

“My dad has always been a book buyer, maybe not a collector, but a buyer on an avid scale. We went to bookstores, flea markets, and libraries. I grew up with an appreciation for books,” says Basie.

“My parents always read to me and never talked down to me. They would explain the big words and the big concepts to me. That was instilled at an early age and really sparked my interest.”

Basie says the encouragement from his parents opened an incredible world for him. The ability to immerse himself in books has developed an appreciation for history, music (Basie’s parents are big jazz aficionados and named him after one of our countries most talented composers), and the printed word.

“I have always been a collector, toy cars, old vinyl,” Basie says. “I like the history of books and focus on that aspect. I really enjoy reading, but also the interaction that occurs with people. The Internet has really changed tremendously the way the book trade works. I do buy online sometimes, but I like being with people and learning from them.”

Collecting books is different to just amassing a library, according to Basie. The art of collection centers around building a body of books that builds on previous knowledge and adds value, but not in a strictly monetary fashion.

“Collecting is gathering with a purpose and larger interest. It’s not about finding rare or pricey materials. It’s about putting together books that have a value outside of themselves,” Basie says. “It’s not about the value of one particular book or books, it’s about contributing something to the base of knowledge.”

Basie’s interest now center on canvassing books, which are publisher’s dummies or salesman copies. There isn’t much financial value in most of these tomes, but they add immeasurably to the body of knowledge of American literary history.

“I really love these type of books,” Basie says. “It really gives a window onto American history when you read these books. At this point I look for something that is really uncommon, but is priced right.”

Basie has worked at the oldest used bookstore in the state, Whitlock’s Book Barn in Bethany, since he was 13. That job and his new position working for premiere bookseller Bill Reese has allowed Basie to build a literary knowledge and resumé that would be impressive for someone three times his years.

“Bill is very well-known in the field. He specializes in rare Americana books,” says Basie. “It’s incredibly fun to go to work. It’s fantastic working for him. The knowledge I gained from working at Whitlock’s and now with Bill Reese is just incredible. I am very fortunate. Just in the last several months I have learned a lot.”

Basie says he was thrilled to place second in the competition, but felt lucky just to take part in it. Collectors go through an individual competition at their respective universities and then forge on to the national competitions.

“I’m extremely happy just to be in the contest,” Basie says. “I am hopeful for next year as well as a senior.”

According to Basie, he hasn’t decided on a profession to pursue after school, but says it will definitely involve books and more books.

“I really love history and the history of books. I definitely see myself in academia in some way, but I am still just enjoying learning right now,” Basie says. “I really like the personal interacting that goes on with actually being in a book store and talking with people one on one.”

Got a question about books or book collection? Post your question below in the story’s comments section. Basie Gitlin will answer the most interesting question online and in a coming issue of The Sound.

Hammer Time!

Shore Publishing — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:30:59 GMT

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:

BRANFORD:

It’s easy to take a fresh, green playing field for granted, but it’s an all-consuming focus for the Parks & Recreation Department. With safety of the town’s young athletes as its top priority, Parks Director Alex Palluzzi Jr. and his dedicated staff have found a way to save tax dollars, reduce toxic run-off, and still provide a place for tackling, catching, and romping for kids of all ages.

The Parks Department has been focusing on an organic maintenance program that saw immediate benefits in cost, reduced pesticide use, and keeping the fields thicker, fuller, and safer. Not only is the department fine-tuning the organic experiment, it’s also keeping the heavily used parcels in shape, which is no easy task.

“These are all purpose fields; they are in constant use by every sport. They need constant work,” said Palluzzi. “That is why the organics has been such a benefit. It has really had a dramatic difference in our ability to keep the fields safe.

“Healthy and safe fields are our number one priority.” Palluzzi continued. “It is always a work in progress and a constant battle but by doing this we can be more cost effective in the long run.”

A March article in The Sound about the fields program prompted numerous phone calls from departments in other shoreline towns, said Palluzzi. But the organic effort is only part of the full project to keep town playing surfaces safe for athletes.

“At Hammer we are below sea level, so you can imagine we have lots of problems. Someone might say, ‘why do you need irrigation on a field that floods?’ but we can control the water here more effectively if we have proper irrigation,” said Palluzzi. “The big problem we have is the lips of the fields. The transition from grass to clay to grass again is where you can have problems, especially in Little League baseball. Balls hop up off that and feet can get caught. This project will finally address that problem.”

Keeping up with all the maintenance can be daunting.

We have two dozen fields to take care of and we have all sorts of activities on them, so our work can last until December,” Palluzzi said.

The multi-year project is nearing completion, according to Palluzzi. The last two fields at Hammer will be irrigated this spring and then all fields in Branford will be irrigated and fully organic.

Palluzzi recently went on a trip to Camden Yards in Baltimore, home of Major League Baseball’s (MLB) Orioles, and found it faces many of the same problems as municipal fields. In fact, with encouraging findings from projects such as Branford’s, MLB is rumored to be considering organic testing on field maintenance next year.

“They have the same problems with sod,” said Palluzzi. “They have drainage issues there as well, but they took us on a personal tour and looked at other problems they face. They are looking at organics from what we heard. They have beautiful green fields, but that is also why they have some problems.”

According to Parks Department officials, the final phase of the project will be completed next spring when the final two fields at Hammer are irrigated and integrated.

Pictured: This re-sodding effort on Hammer Field may not look like much, but the Parks & Recreation Department is close to completing a multi-year project to irrigate every field in Branford and maintain it with organic practices. Here, lead maintainer Marcel "Butch" Cote removes excess clay from the Hammer Field baseball diamond while Branford Park and Recreation Director Alex Palluzzi, Jr. watches. The remaining clay is being stored in the grounds shed to be used later for the other fields.

Photo by Nancy Dionne

Calling All Mentors

Shore Publishing — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:26:58 GMT

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:

BRANFORD:

Only an hour–not even, 45 minutes–a week can change a kid’s life. The Branford school system is actively seeking mentors for its program and the need is greater than ever.

It doesn’t take much to be a mentor, according to Branford High School Program Director Dona Richetelli. The ability to listen is really the only skill needed to help a student navigate the world.

The Branford program began in 2004 and since then has had many documented successes. Numerous studies have proven that mentor programs benefit both kids and mentees, according to Richetelli.

“In Connecticut, there are more than 160,000 children, 25 percent of Connecticut youth, that have life situations that place them at risk for personal and academic failure,” said Richetelli. “Children who have ongoing relationships with caring adults are more likely to avoid alcohol or other drugs, stay in school and get good grades, have a better self-image, and have better relationships with their families and friends. Many more mentors, especially men, are needed.”

Mentor Richard Hetrick said that this experience has provided him a unique opportunity to be a positive influence in a child’s life. Hetrick has been a mentor since the program’s inception in 2004.

“I was approached by a long-time friend, Kevin McDonough, who said he was starting this program and would I like to take a shot? I thought it would be interesting and I found out I loved it,” Hetrick said. “I enjoy doing it. It’s enjoyable to interact with my mentee.”

According to Hetrick, being a good listener and friend is all that’s needed.

“It is very fulfilling to be able to steer him on the right path. He is a great kid,” Hetrick said. “It’s fun to do, not always easy, but fun. I think what he gets out of it is a positive male role model in his life, which is something he doesn’t have at this moment.”

There are some minor logistical requirements, including proper ID and background information, but once the relationship begins, it consists of only one class period a week. Richetelli said there is an immediate need for mentors, as there’s a current backlog of 10 students across the system.

“Mentors are needed because of the diverse population of children who have many different types of personal and emotional needs. We always need mentors, especially males. We have students who could really use a positive role model in their lives,” Richetelli said. “As the program expands, so does the realization that it works.”

For more information, visit the Branford High School Mentor Program website at www.branford.k12.ct.us and locate the Mentor Program icon or call Dona Richetelli directly at 203-315-6736.

Pictured: Meet the Mentor: Kendra Martin has been a mentor in the Branford Community Mentoring Youth Mentoring Program since January 2006. When spending time together, Kendra and her mentee like to play tennis, make puzzles, cook, and talk about school, books, and friends. An employee of Unilever Consumer Products in Greenwich, Martin is a firm believer in giving back to the community. She volunteers with the American Red Cross, is a member of the Branford Woman’s Club, and is Finance Council director for the Junior League of New Haven.

Photo courtesy of Branford High School

Rob Mercier Keeps Defense on Lockdown

Shore Publishing — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 19:15:02 GMT

By Jennifer Small, Sound Sports Editor:

For the past 12 years, soccer has been a mainstay of Rob Mercier’s life. Growing up playing on recreation soccer, competitive, and Guilford Premier, Rob remembers the moment he knew he wanted to be a part of a successful varsity team.

“I remember going to the states game for the boys’ team when I was in eighth grade and that was the year the boys won states,” says Rob. “I remember thinking that just being on a team where I could play at that level would be great.”

Rob has certainly reached those goals as he recently finished his senior season as one of the Shoreline Conference’s top defenders for one of the league’s top teams. He earned Second Team All-Shoreline for his efforts.

As the fastest player on the T-Bird squad, Rob’s job was to mark the opposing team’s top player. His biggest accomplishment this season was holding some of the Shoreline Conference’s top forwards scoreless including those from Morgan, Old Lyme, and Valley.

“That is saying a lot since we played them all twice for a total of six games against three players voted First Team All-Shoreline, who could not score one goal in six games,” says Coach Cliff Yerkes. “Rob is mentally and physically tough. He never came out of the game and I liked to call him ‘Lockdown’ Rob because whoever he guarded was held in check all game.”

Yerkes has been counting on Rob as a starter for the past two seasons, while he was also double-rostered seeing some varsity time as a sophomore. Hanging onto his starting position as a junior wasn’t easy, but his hard work at practice paid off.

“There were so many other seniors vying for that spot so most of the year it was fighting to keep it,” says Rob. “I wanted it really badly. Every day I went to practiced and focused on what I could improve.”

Rob has certainly improved through the years along with his team. This year, the T-Birds had a more than successful season, finishing in the second round of the state tournament.

The 2008 season also marked the first time in the four years that Rob has been with the team that North Branford has beaten Morgan and Old Saybrook and advanced past the first round of the state tournament to take on Nonnewaug in the second round where the T-Birds battled to a 2-2 tie before falling 3-2 on penalty kicks.

“We definitely would’ve liked to have gone farther—ending on PKs is really hard, but just being with the team for the PKs was a great feeling,” says Rob, who grew up playing with most of his teammates. “It was a really great feeling to finally be on a high school team playing quality high school soccer. To end like that was a great feeling knowing that I accomplished it with the kids I grew up playing with.”

While Rob doesn’t plan on giving up the game as he will at least play at the intramural level in college, he will miss his teammates of more than a decade. Rob is looking at Syracuse University and University of Michigan with an interest in engineering.

Before college, though, Rob has two more seasons of varsity competition ahead of him as a member of the indoor and outdoor track teams. He runs the 300 and 55-meter dash in indoor and the 100, 200, and 4x100 in outdoor, for which he lettered his sophomore year.

Rob has a built-in fan club for all of his sports as he has four older sisters and a younger brother, who have all been supportive, along with his parents.

“A lot of times my sisters, who graduated college or are in college, couldn’t make it to the games or meets, but they’d call and ask how I did that night and it’s really great to see my younger brother in the stands at track meets or on the sidelines for soccer,” says Rob, who is a member of the National Honor Society. “My parents were the biggest influences because for the past 18 years, in almost every decision I’ve made they’ve been supportive and encouraged me to try new things. Through thick and thin, they were always behind me 100 percent of the way. When there’s that kind of support and people to talk to, it makes things easier.”

Pictured: Rob Mercier (24) contains one of Shoreline Conference champion Morgan’s top offensive weapons in regular-season action.

Photo by John Vanacore

T-Birds’ Football Stays Undefeated with Win

Shore Publishing — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:46:01 GMT

By Ron Ragozzino, Special to The Sound:

The North Branford Thunderbirds football team was inches away from heartbreak Friday night but survived with a 28-20 victory over Housatonic/Wamogo in overtime to improve to 9-0 on the season.

In overtime, North Branford senior quarterback Gary Esposito took things into his own hands by scoring on a five-yard scamper to make the score 26-20. North Branford went for the two-point conversion and converted when Esposito kept it on the quarterback keeper and rushed to the left side for the score. With the score 28-20, North Branford’s defense came on the field and came up with four stops to seal the win to stay undefeated.

With 28 seconds left in the game, Housatonic/Wamogo drove 60 yards on six plays to tie the game at 20. The Mountaineers had a chance to win when they attempted the two-point conversion. On the snap, the ball went into the hands of William Kennedy and he rushed to the right side, but senior captain Joe Lasko chased him down and as Kennedy stretched out to the goal line, Lasko wrapped him up and pushed him out of bounds inside the one-yard line to keep the game tied at 20.

“We weren’t sharp at all,” North Branford Coach Mark Basil said. “We had poor tackling, too many penalties, and we survived this game. We didn’t take this team seriously and it was a trap game. We were looking ahead to Cromwell next week. You can’t prepare for Cromwell in one week. Cromwell has a lot of skilled players and they know how to get to the perimeter. They can run the ball and have a quarterback that can throw.”

After a scoreless and rainy first quarter, the T-Birds struck early on in the second quarter. Esposito led a five-play drive capping it off by throwing a 17-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Vorio to make it 7-0.

After the Mountaineers got a touchdown of their own to make it 7-6 (two point conversion failed), North Branford answered with 51 seconds to go before halftime. Esposito hooked up with Vorio again on an 18-yard touchdown reception to cap off a five-play, 74-yard drive to make the score 13-6. (PAT failed).

North Branford scored again in the third quarter increasing the score to 20-6. After calling a timeout, the offense dialed up a screen pass on third down to Mitch Holcomb and he was on the receiving end as he took it 48 yards to the house.

Housatonic responded with the next 14 points but couldn’t capitalize on a two-point conversion to win. Throughout the whole game both teams had to deal with a sloppy and muddy field as it rained for most of the game.

“These were the conditions Housatonic wanted,” Basil said. “We couldn’t get our footing and we couldn’t get to the outside. They were bigger and their style of offense was different.”

Before the game seniors Gary Esposito, Jon McCarroll, Rob Richetelli, Elijah Shuler, Mitch Holcomb, Eddie Harris, Michael Behr, John Just, Anthony Marriott, Jared Gallogly, Albert Delucia, Kyle Hausman, Taylor Orsillo, Jeff Rivellini, Alex Robertson, and captains Andrew “Poppy” Cottiero and Joe Lasko were honored before the game for senior night.

“We have a history on Senior Night of starting out slow,” Basil said. “It probably had something to do with it.”

North Branford (9-0) will take on an undefeated Cromwell team (9-0) at Pierson Park in Cromwell on Saturday at 1 p.m.

Game at a Glance

Nov. 14: North Branford 28, Housatonic/Wamogo 20 (OT)

Key Performances

Gary Esposito: 12 completions, 284 all-purpose yards, 4 touchdowns

Anthony Vorio: 3 receptions, 38 yards, 2 touchdowns, 9 tackles, 2 pass deflections

Mitch Holcomb: 48-yard touchdown reception, 13 tackles

Joe Lasko: 11 tackles

Rob Richetelli: 6 tackles, interception

Jeff Rivellini: 1 catch, 20 yards, 6 tackles

Fishing the Curl at Season’s End

Shore Publishing — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:54:58 GMT

Constant wind and wave action made for extremely difficult holding of ground tackle–no matter the scope. It was one of those “should we or shouldn’t we” types of decisions that was pondered over. Although safety is always first concern, it really didn’t figure in here as much as knowing that the trip was going to be wet, bouncy, and very salty.

If the season wasn’t waning so quickly and holiday gears weren’t forcibly meshing, the day would’ve been chalked off in favor of a pigskin game. But there were still blues lingering in the mid-50 degree water, stripers just aching to be caught, and togs, although deeper, still well within reach. A somewhat reluctant decision was made to uncleat and head out. And so we did.

Normally this time of year, mooring lines have already begun to stiffen while outboards begin to develop that early morning cough and shake. Soon that will be the case but not just yet. Knowing that in one week this could all change, we loaded hot thermoses to offset the gloomy day and ice chests optimistically reserved for the tide’s catch on board.

A little bit of this bait and a little more of that, we steamed ahead with the thought of letting Mother Nature dictate our game plan. Other than fishing, there was none. If conditions allowed for tautog then we’d drop a hook but if drifting or trolling seemed more productive, we had that covered as well.

When a couple of old salts get together, there can either be non-stop conversation or few words spoken. Often though, it’s an expressive glance that tells the story. That was the case here. With limited options, trolling and rolling the rips was the only logical choice–going with the flow, so to speak. Somehow the fish didn’t mind as much as, quite honestly, we did.

In the curls, as port and starboard gunwales slapped the water, fish could be seen. There was a mix of striped bass and bluefish chasing heavy chromed spoons. Wiping spray and the occasional peak wave from our brows was effort enough but cranking in line while maintaining sound footing was the absolute chore–let alone de-hooking and releasing fish. A few fish were kept for the cooler. The hot thermoses? They weren’t even touched until the vessel was once again secured to the dock. And, that’s the way one of the last trips of a season can take place.

On the Water

Warm water temperatures have somewhat stalled the fall migration of blues and bass, giving us plenty of fishing but unfortunately winds and subsequent wave action have closed many windows of opportunity. When the weather chose to cooperate, fishing proved to be fantastic with schools of both bass and blues becoming seasonally aggressive.

With little time left before Thanksgiving and anglers beginning to focus on year-end events, precious bonus days have been few and far between. Nevertheless, striped bass are here in numbers, schools of blues continue to linger and blackfish/tautog are heading for deeper water beckoning ‘toggers to follow. In fact, bluefish blitzes have occurred within casting distance from shore just a few short days ago.

With cows either moving in from the Rhode Island coast or splitting ranks to follow the Atlantic coast, anglers are looking for that 50- to 60-pounder that’s been eluding them–in some cases, for a lifetime. Now is prime time to try for that record-buster as the big gals cruise the inshore reefs, move across Long Sand Shoal, linger around Southwest Reef, and head west and, in a few cases, move up along tidal rivers to hang out for the winter season.

Hints are that we’re in line for impending cold front(s), which ought to tighten the window on remaining blues. But look for striper action to continue a bit longer and, if another bonus day or two were to materialize, there should follow an arm-weary top water session or two. For those surf casters, jetties, some beaches, and a few of the wharves are producing fish on plugs, chunks, and eels. For these guys and gals, the season will continue–longer if you follow the striper coast.

As water temperatures continue to drop, Atlantic broodstock salmon in the twelve-pound range are becoming more active. Single hook spoons and small spinners have been connecting along with mixed-colored and dark streamers. These, along with trout in CT’s stocked rivers, have been offering decent fall fishing when the winds beg off.

Largemouths have not been very active but ‘smallie’ fishing has been hot, joining the good pre-front bite for northerns and black crappie. Carp are being caught in the main rivers while both river/lake catfish taking bottom baits. It seems that certain labrador retrievers have taken a liking to cheese/blood baits so watch your frisky outdoors pal. Tom Megargee (DEP fishing instructor, avid freshwater angler and excellent fish chowder creator) landed this colorful CT River cove 40½” 15.7Lb northern pike using live bait.

Wherever fishing, think Captain Morgan’s for all things fishy including the latest gear, bait, flies/flyfishing, rod/reel repair, clam/crabbing supplies and licenses. Swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days, located on 21 Boston Post Road, Madison. Until next time, from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter where we don't make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better...

Tight Lines,

Captain Morgan

Branford Field Hockey’s Season Ends in Class M Semis

Shore Publishing — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:46:31 GMT

By Chris Piccirillo, Sound Senior Sports Writer:

The Branford field hockey team had outstanding fall, winning 11 straight games at one point en route to earning its ninth Southern Connecticut Conference title, after which Cathy McGuirk’s squad prevailed in its first two Class M State Tournament contests.

But unfortunately, the Hornets’ run towards the 11th state title in program history came up a couple of victories short as Branford’s successful season ended with a 2-1 loss to Darien in the semifinals.

Branford, which was seeded fourth, fell behind top-seeded and undefeated Darien 2-0 early as the Blue Wave put home a pair of goals within a minute-and-a-half of the game’s opening minutes.

To the Hornets’ credit, they battled back valiantly as freshman Erica McLean received a free hit into the circle from junior Kristina Ruotolo and used a reverse stick lift to score and cut the deficit to 2-1 with 19:20 left in the contest. However, that was as close as Branford got as Darien’s defense preserved the lead and the Hornets’ campaign ended with a stellar record of 15-2-2.

“This was a very well-played game by both teams and our kids never backed down, even when we were behind by two goals. They kept fighting and thought they would come back and I’m proud of them for that,” McGuirk said. “But Darien is a team with very good stick skills and it just seemed like whenever we got the ball into their circle, they’d knock it right back out again. We really didn’t have many strong shots on goal in the second half.”

Overall, Branford was outshot 19-7 with Hornets’ senior captain goalkeeper Tori Redding making 16 saves to help keep her squad within striking distance.

“Of course, field hockey is a team game, but you have to give Tori credit for making some big saves after Darien got those first two goals,” McGuirk said. “She just wasn’t missing after that and Carleen McLaughlin also made a big stop at the goal line. Melissa Villano also cleared a few out of there, Kristina Ruotolo played well defensively and had some free hits that were important, Cheyenne Carden was making plays all over the field, and Val Milici, Marissa Irwin, and Nicole Hobbs also picked up a lot of balls for us.”

This game marked the last one in the careers of Branford’s six seniors, who are Redding; Villano, a forward; McLaughlin, a sweeper; Marissa Irwin, a link; Val Milici, a left halfback; and Nicole Swirsky, the team’s manager.

“I’m proud of my team for the season they had,” McGuirk said. “As coaches, one of the things we always want to see is for our athletes to improve during the season and that happened this year as we had kids who weren’t playing much early, but made big contributions against Darien because they got better. We only lost our first game of the season and our last game with a conference title to show for it so I would say that this was a pretty good year.”

Pictured: Junior Kristina Ruotolo was a key contributor to the success of the Hornets’ field hockey squad this season.

Photo by Matthew Lucas

Steadfast in Service

Shore Publishing — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:17:23 GMT

Branford’s decorated veterans stand strong and true last Sunday during the national anthem at the 2008 Veteran’s Day Parade.

Photo by Bill O’Brien

Police Incident Report: Oct. 29 to Nov. 4

Shore Publishing — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:16:34 GMT

Branford

Wednesday, Oct. 29

• An 18-year-old Madison woman was arrested at 3:52 p.m. and charged with larceny in the sixth degree.

• A 24-year-old man of Harbor Street was issued a misdemeanor summons at 8:40 a.m. for failure to have insurance, evading responsibility in the operation of a motor vehicle following an accident in which where was property damage and/or bodily injury, and operating a motor vehicle without a license.

Thursday, Oct. 30

• A 51-year-old man of Briarwood Lane was arrested at 1:10 a.m. on a warrant charging him with failure to pay or plead.

• A 19-year-old Guilford man was arrested at 2:25 a.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and failure to drive in the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway.

• A 43-year-old woman of unknown address was arrested at 10 a.m. and charged with harassment in the second degree.

• A 37-year-old man of Prospect Street was arrested at 1:53 p.m. and charged with possession of narcotics and use and/or possession of drug paraphernalia.

• A 44-year-old man of School Ground Road was issued a misdemeanor summons at 5:44 p.m. for failure to have insurance and making an unsafe movement from a stopped or standing position.

• A 30-year-old woman of South Montowese Street was issued a misdemeanor summons at 10:35 p.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension.

Friday, Oct. 31

• A 29-year-old Madison man was arrested at 7 p.m. and charged with criminal impersonation and failure to drive in the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway.

• A 26-year-old man of Baypath Way was issued a misdemeanor summons at 6:36 a.m. for misuse of plate, failure to have insurance, operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, and failure to obey a control signal.

• A 46-year-old man of Taylor Place was arrested at 5:52 p.m. and charged with misuse of plate, failure to have insurance, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Saturday, Nov. 1

• A 50-year-old New Haven woman was arrested at 1:18 a.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and failure to drive right.

• A 27-year-old man of Monticello Drive was arrested at 9 a.m. on a warrant for failure to appear in the first degree.

• A 47-year-old man of Bradley Avenue was arrested at 5:11 p.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, evading responsibility in the operation of a motor vehicle, and making an improper turn.

• A 40-year-old Hamden man was arrested at 10 p.m. and charged with larceny in the third degree.

Sunday, Nov. 2

• A 63-year-old man of Opening Hill Road was arrested at 4:24 a.m. and charged with creating a public disturbance.

Monday, Nov. 3

• A 52-year-old man of Hernando, Florida, was arrested on warrants between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. charging him with larceny in the second degree, making home improvements without a license, misrepresentation regarding cancellation option, and two counts of failure to appear in the second degree.

• A 66-year-old East Haven man was arrested at 11:45 a.m. and charged with disorderly conduct.

Tuesday, Nov. 4

• A 39-year-old man of Shore Drive was arrested at 4:38 p.m. and charged with threatening.

• A 43-year-old man of Johnsons Point was arrested at 6:47 p.m. on a warrant charging him with being a fugitive from justice.

North Branford

Wednesday, Oct. 29

No arrests were made.

• A 20-year-old North Haven man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 12:06 a.m. for speeding at over 60 miles per hour on a road and possession of liquor by an underage person in the public place or private location. He was driving a white 1995 Dodge Neon.

Thursday, Oct. 30

No arrests were made and no summonses were issued.

Friday, Oct. 31

• An 18-year-old man of Timberwood Trail in Northford was arrested at 12:43 p.m. and charged with burglary in the third degree, criminal mischief in the third degree, larceny in the first degree, making a false statement in the second degree, conspiracy to commit burglary in the third degree, and conspiracy to commit larceny in the first degree. He was released on bond pending a Nov. 12 court date.

• An 18-year-old man of Maplewood Lane in Northford was arrested at 4 p.m. and charged with burglary in the third degree, criminal mischief in the third degree, larceny in the first degree, conspiracy to commit burglary in the third degree, and conspiracy to commit larceny in the first degree. He was released on bond pending a Nov. 12 court date.

Saturday, Nov. 1

No arrests were made and no summonses were issued.

Sunday, Nov. 2

No arrests were made.

• An 18-year-old man of Meadow Road was issued a misdemeanor summons at 12:01 a.m. for speeding at over 60 miles per hour on a road. He was driving a gray 1997 Honda Civic.

• A 44-year-old Guilford man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 9 a.m. for failure to have insurance and failure to drive a reasonable distance apart following a motor vehicle accident. He was driving a 1985 Chevrolet C20 flatbed truck.

Monday, Nov. 3

No arrests were made and no summonses were issued.

Tuesday, Nov. 4

• A 52-year-old Killingworth man was arrested at 4:46 p.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and failure to drive in the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway. He was released on a non-surety bond pending a Nov. 18 court date.

From Oct. 29 to Nov. 4, North Branford police also issued two citations to motorists for operating an unregistered motor vehicle and two citations for improper license classification for vehicle driven. One citation for issued for each of the following violations: failure to obey a control signal, unnecessary noise, traveling unreasonably fast, failure to have stop lamps, failure to have headlights, failure to drive a reasonable distance apart, having a defective windshield or wipers, failure to carry a license, failure to grant right of way, speeding, failure to have a DMV approval sticker for tinted windows, and failure to display plate/sticker.

Correspondent Jason J. Marchi compiles the Police Incident Report

V Is for Veteran

Shore Publishing — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:14:24 GMT

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:

NORTH BRANFORD:

Veterans of U.S. military service spread across many generations from World War I to the current conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, but at 98, North Branford has a piece of living history in World War II veteran Bill James. The Northford resident helped train and rescue Allied flyers and came back to help create the communities of both Branford and North Branford.

Bill served in the Burma Theater in the 58th and 40th Bomb Wing of the XX Bomber Command and was part of the Herculean effort to supply the Pacific war across the Himalayas from India to China in the infamous journey known as “The Hump,” a trip Bill made numerous times. Bill helped train pilots and their crews how to evade capture and survive the many emergencies these fearless men faced as they supplied the Flying Tigers and aided the Chinese in their struggle against the invading Japanese empire.

Bill evaded death even before he had left for his ultimate assignment. Pulled out of his unit and enrolled in officer’s school because of his promise, he found out just before shipping out that his entire company had been killed in North Africa in one of the first Allied offensives of the war.

“Just before finishing my training I was transferred to Officer Candidates School and that probably saved my life,” Bill says. “There were 42 men in my barracks. There was one other guy who had been transferred as well, somewhere on the west coast. So I happened to be on a train to New Haven to see my mom and I ran into this other guy. So I asked him if he had heard what happened to our barrack-mates. He said, ‘Haven’t you heard?’ They were all killed by Rommel’s tank corps in North Africa. So I really think that saved my life, I would have been there without a doubt. I dodged one problem before even leaving, but as we used to say, that’s just the way the ball bounces.

“There was no reason to why [some] people were killed and some weren’t,” Bill continues. “It was the luck of the draw.”

The loss of men and material on these flights across this treacherous area was staggering to the Allied forces. Bill’s training helped countless men survive emergencies and return to fight another day.

“When it came to flying, it was a different war. I saw my share of injuries, but for the most part when it came to flyers, you either came back or you didn’t,” recalls Bill. “We didn’t see a lot of wounded men. That was always difficult. A crew would go out and simply never come back. We trained these crews in escape and evasion tactics, which helped save lives. It was a very intense experience. India was fascinating to me and so was China.”

Even with the current wars and the numerous injuries suffered by today’s vets, it may be difficult to imagine the resolution and commitment needed to defeat an enemy as large and determined as the Axis Powers. With so many veterans passing on in recent years, it’s easy to forget the dire straits America faced and the determination it took to achieve victory against uncertain odds.

“We just did it,” says Bill. “The Hump was a dangerous journey. We lost around 42 percent of the original crews assigned to these missions. That’s a lot of men, but these guys had a lot of coolness. I saw some very courageous things by these men. To fly an airplane that is on fire–that takes a level head and some real coolness. They were incredible guys. The things the crews did to survive was just tremendous.”

Bill was also involved in Air Intelligence and sea rescue, saw action in five campaigns, and won medals, honors, and commendations, but he has an incredible tale outside of his service as well. He has a PhD. with degrees from both Brown and Yale, he was superintendent of the Branford school system for nine years, he served in Hartford on the Commission for Higher Education, he went on to teach at university and wrote several books after retiring, and in a 2005 was an inductee into the Branford Education Hall of Fame.

Bill is philosophical about his service and thankful to have made it home when so many others did not.

“We got through with humor. The one thing I remember is people breaking the tension,” says Bill. “The right amount of humor at the right time. In the end it was where the ball bounced. You made it or you didn’t.”

Pictured: Bill James of North Branford used his experiences in WWII in the 58th and 40th Bomb Wing of the Army’s XX Bomber Command to inspire a life of community service and a career in education.

Photo by Ben Rayner

Superintendent Schoonmaker

Shore Publishing — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:12:38 GMT

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:

NORTH BRANFORD:

The Board of Education (BOE) has voted unanimously for Scott Schoonmaker as its choice for superintendent of schools in North Branford. Schoonmaker, principal of Old Saybrook High School (OSHS) for the past 11 years, has been recommended as the replacement for retiring Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Wolfe.

According to BOE officials, Schoonmaker was also dean of students at OSHS and his career in education began as a teacher, both at middle and high school levels. Under his leadership, OSHS has adopted award-winning programs that have been recognized at both the state and national levels.

According to BOE Chair Deborah Prunier, OSHS revised its graduation requirements and implemented a community service requirement and senior capstone project during Schoonmaker’s tenure. These requirements, in addition to a comprehensive educational plan for each student, are in alignment with the new high school reform bill that is to go into effect in the near future for North Branford schools.

According to the BOE, Schoonmaker is recognized in the Old Saybrook community as an active participant and agent of change. Schoonmaker said he is looking forward to the challenges of leading the town’s educational system.

“This is a wonderful opportunity. I am thrilled to advance to the next level of the totem pole and I am very excited,” said Schoonmaker before the meeting. “This is a real honor and I am very humbled. The community so far has been very supportive and it’s wonderful to be in a town as supportive of education as this one is.”

Schoonmaker said his first priority is educating himself on the town and the system.

“The first challenge is just getting to know the town and the staff. The beauty is coming into a situation that is stable and being able to get right down to the goals. I can’t wait to take advantage of this opportunity.”

According to Prunier, dozens of potential candidates were screened through the search consultants and six highly qualified candidates were selected for first round interviews. After narrowing this field to two, Schoonmaker was selected as the candidate of choice.

In May, current Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Wolfe announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31. Prunier said that Schoonmaker is scheduled to take over the position on Jan. 1 and will be working with Wolfe on the transition.

Wolfe praised both Schoonmaker and the BOE at the meeting, saying the combined experience and dedication will be a great benefit to the students of North Branford.

“I am very proud of the way this Board of Education went through this process. I have been around this process many times before with other boards and they went about this in an incredibly professional manner,” said Wolfe. “I am delighted about their choice. I am equally delighted the system will be in the good hands of Mr. Schoonmaker. North Branford is fortunate.”

Station to Station

Shore Publishing — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:10:18 GMT

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:

NORTH BRANFORD:

Alert motorists may have noticed that a piece of automotive history mysteriously disappeared last month from its Foxon Road location. The tiny but historic gas station that sat on Rte. 80 just east of the high school was moved by the Public Works Department to its new digs at the Totoket Historical Society (THS).

There had been debate for several years as to what to do with the garage-sized unit and another structure that sat on Regional Water Authority (RWA) land the authority purchased five years ago. The RWA worked with town officials to help preserve the building that is considered to be the first gas station in North Branford.

The station was opened in 1927 and is believed to have operated until the late 1940s as a fueling station. It was owned by Angelo Forte and was an important commodity on Rte. 80, which at the time was a main artery between New York and the rest of New England.

The station is unique in its design, having a half-octagon shape that allowed attendants to view cars from both directions. According to Marx, after the 1938 hurricane the manually operated pumps at the station were one of the few sources of fuel when the shoreline was thrown into a blackout after the storm.

The THS wanted the building, according to President Grace Marx, but had little funds to accomplish the feat. The town stepped in, with help from the Public Works Department, and finally moved the structure in mid-September.

“It was a great thing when we heard we would be getting it,” said Marx. “Of course we didn’t know how we could afford it, but the whole town stepped up and were behind this. We think it’s great to have it here.”

THS member Gene MacMullen said the THS hopes to refurbish the station and use it as an automotive-themed attraction for the museum.

“We want to use it as an automotive piece, like license plates, and car parts–even a period gas pump,” said MacMullen. “We would certainly love to get an old hand-cranked gas pump. They’re hard to find these days.”

Public Works Director Fran Merola said the project was accomplished without any problems and took two days including constructing the foundation for the structure at the THS. The trip down Rte. 80 was problem free and the station was deposited directly behind the Miller museum barn.

Mid-Way Towing donated the trailer to assist Public Works, according to Merola.

“It went very smoothly,” said Merola. “We just put it on the truck and drove it right down the road.”

The Totoket Historical Society is interested in any donations of automotive history and in particular, period manual gas-pumps. Call THS at 203-484-0246.

Pictured: The new home of the town’s first gas station, built in 1927, will now be at the Totoket Historical Society’s property behind the Gordon Miller museum. The tiny station was relocated by a public works crew and will be a repository for auto-themed artifacts. Shown are Public Works employees moving the building on Sept. 15.

Photo courtesy of the North Branford Public Works Department

Reckless Driver Rams Police Vehicle, Injures Officer

Shore Publishing — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:06:58 GMT

By Jason J. Marchi, Sound Correspondent:

NORTH BRANFORD:

The solemn, early morning hours of Sunday, Nov. 2 were shattered when an East Haven officer’s attempt to stop a reckless driver on Route 80 in town turned into a police chase that ended with a fiery crash in North Branford, sending the officer and the two men he was pursing to area hospitals.

While on patrol shortly before 2 a.m., East Haven Police Officer Justin Brochu spotted a red Chevy pickup truck being operated recklessly on Foxon Road (Route 80). When he attempted to stop the vehicle the driver engaged the officer in pursuit eastbound on Foxon Road into North Branford. The accused then rammed Brochu’s cruiser and went off the road, according to Sgt. Edward Lennon.

“Due to the crash a fire started, causing the East Haven police vehicle to be completely destroyed,” Lennon stated.

The suspect driver, Michael Monaco, 27, 222 Clintonville Road, North Branford was arrested at 1:58 a.m. and charged with assault on peace officer, interfering with police/resisting arrest, reckless endangerment in the second degree, reckless driving, and failure to bring motor vehicle to a full stop (engaging police in pursuit).

A passenger in the suspect vehicle, Mark Tamulevich, 45, of 460 Totoket Road, North Branford became combative at the scene as the men tried to flee, police said. Tamulevich was charged with interfering with police/resisting arrest.

“Both Monaco and Tamulevich were evaluated at Yale-New Haven Hospital for non-life threatening injuries sustained from the crash and the ramming of the police vehicle,” Lennon said.

While both men were in custody police determined that Monaco was involved in a hit and run motor vehicle accident in New Haven earlier that same evening.

Monaco was processed and released on a $50,000 bond and Tamulevich was released on a $2,500 bond. Both men, neither of whom could be reached for comment, were scheduled to appear in New Haven Superior Court on Nov. 12.

Officer Brochu was evaluated and later released from St. Raphael’s Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.