Members of the Southington High School band accept the Dinkles Spirit of Band Award after a fourth place finish at the national championship.

On Saturday, Nov. 7, the Southington High School marching band capped another championship season with a fourth place finish at the USBands National Championship. The Blue Knights competed at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in a division of 14 championship bands, and Southington rallied to its best finish at the championship event.

Southington earned their spot at the national competition after rallying to their second straight Class V Open Connecticut state championship on Halloween. This season marks the seventh time that the local band has claimed the state title.

The theme of the 2015 show was “The Coven,” based on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” The composition is told from the witch’s standpoint. The piece has four movements: I. The Prophecy; II. Thane of Cawdor; III. Lady MacBeth; and IV. The Forest Attacks.

The band was accompanied to the Meadowlands by four buses full of parents and fans. The band members and their families participated in a tailgate dinner for over 400 people organized by the Band Backers.

SHS drummers practice outside the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

“Working with such committed people who truly value what the Marching Band and the Southington music program offers our children is a great pleasure,” said Southington Band Backer President Erik Semmel in a band press release.

Southington’s title run wasn’t over after receiving the fourth place national trophy. The Knights were also presented with the Dinkles Spirit of Band Award for the Group V and Group VI division.

The award, sponsored by DINKLES Marching Band Shoes, is presented each year to “the educators, students, parents and boosters of marching bands that exemplify school pride, friendship, creativity and good sportsmanship on and off the field.”

For more photos and video from Southington’s award-winning performances, along with information about the band’s upcoming fundraisers and Super Sub Sale, visit the band’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/shsbands.

DePaolo Middle School announced their students of the month for November. Front, from left, Sophie Wojcicki, Glen Somers, Daniel Semmel, Giovanni Donato, Abby Darling, Ami Kaur, and Kaitlin Siedel. Back, Asst. Principal Chris Palmieri, Rachel Martins, Adam Goralski, Jacob Gius, Natalie Millerick, Chase Swain, and Principal Frank Pepe.

Joseph A. DePaolo Middle School recently announced the names of its November students of the month.

In sixth grade Daniel Semmel, Kaitlin Siedel, and Abby Darling were selected by their teams.

Daniel is the son of Martin and Jennifer Semmel and received an arts and music award in elementary school. He is part of the giving back club and is in the Leadership Program. Daniel plays in the school jazz band and the Southington Brass Band.

Kaitlin is the daughter of Sandi and Michael Siedel and received the Presidential Academic Award in fifth grade. She volunteered for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival and participated in a Make a Wish Foundation fundraiser. Kaitlin plays flute in the school band and is part of the Southington soccer club.

Abby is the daughter of Shawn Darling and Sandra Drzewiecki and was a DARE essay winner in elementary school. She is part of the Rainbow Girls and participated in the Relay for Life. Abby is in band, the ABC club, and volunteered for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival.

In seventh grade Adam Goralski, Giovanni Donato, and Glen Somers were selected by their teams.

Adam is the son of Mike and Kristin Goralski and was recognized at a Principal’s Breakfast in sixth grade. He is a fundamental flag football volunteer coach and participated in the Relay for Life. Adam is a Peer Advocate, part of the Leadership Program, and plays for the Southington Travel Knights football program.

Giovanni is the son of Angelina and Raffaele Donato and has consistently been an honor roll student. He is an altar server at his church and is a student teacher at his dance studio. Giovanni is in the school jazz band and factor team.

Glen is the son of Doug and Tracy Somers and is an honor roll student. He volunteered his time at Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival and plays football and lacrosse for the town. Glen is in the ski club, junior next steps, and Leadership Program at school.

In eighth grade Rachel Martins, Natalie Millerick, and Chase Swain were selected by their teams.

Rachel is the daughter of Manuel and Cristina Martins and was recognized at a Principal’s Breakfast. She is in the Mary Our Queen youth ministry and volunteered her time at Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival. Rachel is in the Leadership Program, sign language club, and yearbook club at school.

Natalie is the daughter of Lisa and David Millerick and is in the National Junior Honor Society. She is a Girl Scout and was selected for the Mathcounts program. Natalie is in the Leadership Program, golf club, and is a peer advocate at DePaolo.

Chase is the son of Pamela and Jeffrey Swain and is in the National Junior Honor Society. He is in the drama club, ABC club, and played on the school baseball team. Chase plays baseball and football for the town.

In Unified Arts Sophie Wojcicki, Ami Kaur, and Jacob Gius were selected.

Sophie is the daughter of Diane and Andy Wojcicki and volunteered her time at Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival. She takes piano and voice lessons and plays in the school orchestra. Sophie is on the cross country team, newspaper club, and Leadership Program.

Ami is the daughter of TJ Singh and Hargun Kaur and is an honor roll student. She plays violin and is in the sign language club. Ami is also involved in her church.

Jacob is the son of Mark and Janalynne Gius and has consistently been an honor roll student. He is a morning announcer and plays the violin in the school orchestra. Jacob also plays in the con brio group and is a Community Service Volunteer.

Southington Catholic School
133 Bristol St, Southington, CT 06489
(860) 628-2485

Southington Catholic School announced the honor roll for the first quarter.

The following students earned high honors: Lauren Bush, Connor Keegan, Valerie Sprague, Haley Weiner, Kira Hanner, David Jerman, Adriana Shea, Andrew Cawley, Justin Hassler, and Emma Kief. To qualify for high honors, students must have earned an “A” in every subject.

The following students earned honors: Kayla Benoit, Wyatt Byrne, Julia Clough, Matthew Doherty, Dominic Oakes, Daniella Salzillo, Samuel Yang, Sean Gallagher, Katrina Heath, Ryan Johnson, Louisa Quartuccio, John Byrne, Ana Marie Cawley, Joseph D’Orso, Logan Miller, Ariana Raymond, Cassidy Wichman, Romi Bagdasarian, Victoria Gomez, Olivia Bates, Kelsi Blatchley, Kiyan Dadras, Kody Hanner, Sydney Wagner, and Jarred Wotton. To qualify for honors, students must have received an “A” or “B” in every subject.

The following students earned honorable mention: Jonathan Blatchley, Adam Guenther, Jessica Martin, Rocco Simmone, Zoey Rubins, Riley Wagner, Bryanna Baker, Alexander Bush, Michael Martin, and Erik Swanson. To qualify for honorable mention, students must have received an “A” or a “B” in most subjects. One “C” is acceptable at this level.

Southington High School, 720 Pleasant St, Southington, CT 06489

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

Three honorees will be added to Southington High School’s Wall of Honor in a ceremony on Monday, Dec. 7. This year, the school will recognize SHS graduates Mike Graziano, Dale Zarrella, and Sgt. Mjr. Phillip Albert.

Board of Education member Bob Brown, Chairman of the Selection Committee, said he began the Wall of Honor more than a decade ago, after he was inspired by a similar tradition at Norwalk High School.

Brown said the wall “tells students they can accomplish great things in life,” and “helps citizens of our great town develop pride in what our schools and town can produce.”

This year, Brown had the opportunity to award the honor to one of his former students.

Nearly 40-years ago, Brown taught Michael Graziano at John F. Kennedy Middle School. This year, Graziano will be recognized for his success and philanthropy—the SHS alumnus has had his works produced on Broadway and has raised more than $150 million for charity.

“It is a wonderful experience as a teacher, seeing someone you taught accomplish great things,” said Brown.

Brown said he hopes the tradition awards many other teachers the same experience, and “informs teachers of the impact they have had on the lives of their students—which is a wonderful, exciting, humbling experience.”

Dale Zarrella will be honored for his accomplishments as an artist—Zarrella left Southington and continued on to become a world-renowned sculptor whose works are displayed in the Vatican.

Additionally, Brown noted that for more than 50-years the Wall of Honor has paid tribute to every veteran that attended SHS and has given their lives in service to their country.

The school will honor Sgt. Mjr. Phillip Albert this year. Albert was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2003.

Brown said members of the community are encouraged to nominate SHS graduates that have gone on to accomplish great things or service their communities and country.

The selection committee reviews all nominations based on four criteria—lifetime achievement, humanitarian work, receipt of significant awards, and community service.

This year’s selection committee was comprised of two Board of Education members, Patricia Queen and Bob Brown, SHS Principal Brian Stranieri, SHS teacher Candy Patten, retired teacher Rich Marietta, and current student, Jessica Gagnon.

Each of this year’s honorees was selected unanimously by the committee.

The public is invited to attend a ceremony for the honorees. The event is expected to begin at 6 p.m. in the auditorium lobby of Southington High School on Monday, Dec. 7.

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, three Southington athletes signed letters of intent to continue to pursue sports after graduation. From left, Michelle Stublarec, Drew Farkas, and Natalie Wadolowski will continue to play in college.

By BRIAN JENNINGS
STAFF WRITER

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, three Southington student-athletes inked their names. Michelle Stublarec, Drew Farkas, and Natalie Wadolowski signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level in front of friends, families, coaches, and teammates in the Southington High School library.

Stublarec chose to continue her volleyball career at for the Division II Warriors at Nyack College in New York, N.Y. “I never really thought I would go to Nyack and never really head of the school, but I met the coach (Raquel Shaffer) there and she was just so welcoming,” said Stublarec. “We had the same personality and kind of just clicked. The campus is absolutely beautiful. It’s a really good environment. They have a really good criminal justice program, which is what I’m majoring in, and a good volleyball team. It just felt like home. I’d go to other colleges, but wouldn’t feel the same way.”

Stublarec has been a three-year starter for the Lady Knights volleyball team as a right and outside hitter. Stublarec finished her high school career with 293 kills (127 in her senior year) on 922 attacks, 40 blocks, 48 digs, and 118 serves received.

Farkas will be joining the Division I Hawks to play baseball at the University of Hartford.

“I think it was just an overall great fit,” said Farkas. “Their sports are Division I and I love the coaches. Coach (Justin) Blood, coach (Steve) Malinowski, and coach (Elliot) Glynn are all great people. When I had my visit there, they were all so kind to me. They really helped me out. When I had my overnight and I was with the team, all the teammates were so friendly to me. Everyone was nice and we just enjoyed ourselves. It was a great time. I love UHart.”

Assistant Knights baseball coach Tim DeJohn will follow Farkas to the University of Hartford to serve as a new assistant coach to the Hawks baseball team.

“I love it,” said Farkas. “I loved him here. He was an awesome coach and now I’m going to have him for another four years. I’m happy about that.”

The left-handed pitcher has been one of the aces for the Blue Knights baseball team over the past couple of seasons. In his high school career, Farkas has been a part of a Southington team that has seen the semifinals three times and the finals twice. Farkas was a starter for the 2015 semifinal game against Amity.

He started nine games in his junior year and threw 62 strikeouts against 199 batters in 53.3. innings pitched, allowing just 39 hits and 17 walks. Farkas went 7-2 with two shutouts and four complete games, holding an ERA of 2.49.

This spring, Farkas will have one more season with the Knights before he begins his career with the Hawks. He plans to study mechanical engineering.

Wadolowski will follow a fellow teammate up to Chestnut Hill, Mass. to play Division I softball for the Eagles at Boston College. Wadolowski said the Lady Knights starting pitcher, Kendra Friedt, helped in her decision.

“I knew she (Friedt) committed to B.C., so I put them on my list to look at them because I like the school and the area of Boston,” said Wadolowski. “I looked at other schools in Boston too. I went to a camp, and they recognized me because they went to some of Kendra’s games…They knew where I stood already. They worked with me a little more, and when I got to where they wanted me, they offered me a scholarship.”

Wadolowski is the starting third baseman for the Lady Knights softball team, and she has already won three Class LL state championship titles. Through her junior year, Wadolowski has a batting average of .391 out of 192 at-bats, 75 hits, 74 RBI’s, and five homeruns in 69 games played. She has also scored 53 runs. She also has 10 stolen bases and a fielding percentage of .879 with 21 putouts.

Last season, Wadolowski held a batting average of .366 out of 71 at-bats, scored 19 runs, and had 26 hits, 24 RBI’s, and two homeruns in 23 games played.

Wadolowski will try for her fourth state title this spring. She is currently undecided about her major next year, but she said that she ultimately wants to be a doctor.

To comment on this story or to contact sports writer Brian Jennings, email him at BJennings@SouthingtonObserver.com.

The Mill Foundation for Kids recently donated $2,400 to the DePaolo and Kennedy Middle Schools Unified Sports program. The program, which is part of the Special Olympics, allows for special needs students and peer partners to participate in sporting events. The money will be used to fund attendance and transportation to area Unified Sports events throughout the school year. From left, Mill Foundation representative Tina Taylor with DePaolo teachers Rebecca Szrejna and Mike Lodovico.

DePaolo Middle School’s ABC activity for October gave students the opportunity to paint, decorate, or carve their own pumpkin during a Southington STEPS activity. Students were able to vote for their favorite pumpkin at a family event, on Oct. 29.

Joseph A. DePaolo Middle School
385 Pleasant St, Southington, CT 06489
(860) 628-3260

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

The Town Council voted on Monday, Nov. 23 to take the next step in continuing the “solarization plan” for the town.

The council approved a Power Purchase Agreement with Greenskies Renewable Energy, LLC, in Middletown, to provide solar power supplies for Kennedy Middle School and DePaolo Middle School.

The agreement is the same as plans previously made with Greenskies for Plantsville Elementary School and South End Elementary School. Greenskies will install solar panel arrays on the roofs of the middle schools, with the town agreeing to purchase the energy generated by the arrays for 20 years.

Town Manager Garry Brumback said the town is hopeful that the design will provide about 80 percent of the electricity requirements for each school, reducing the energy bill by 35 to 40 percent.

The arrays for Kennedy and DePaolo have not yet been engineered, so the precise amount of savings is not yet known, said Brumback.

John F. Kennedy Middle School
1071 S Main St, Plantsville, CT 06479
(860) 628-3275

At the meeting, Town Councilor John Barry questioned whether long-term savings could be determined, and if costs could be predicted. Barry said that the 20 year contract “really ties the hands of the town.”

Brumback responded that real savings will be seen in transportation and distribution costs for energy supply.

“That’s where the true savings are and what makes this worthwhile,” said Brumback

The agreement passed as presented in a 7-1 vote, with Barry opposed and Councilor Tom Lombardi recusing himself from the vote.

“It continues to be a very positive thing for our schools, and it is also positive environmentally,” said Brumback, who hopes the new arrays will be built over next summer break.

“Ultimately our goal is to get all of the town buildings with some sort of renewable energy sources,” said Brumback.

Seven area students were recognized for their volunteer work by Ally G’s Everyday Angels. Connor Watson, Victoria Castillo, Aparna Athreya, Jessica Kerchis, Sondra Keltner, Sarah Anderson, and Mary Bilodeau were recognized as “Everyday Angels” on Dec. 2.

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

Allyson Genovese, founder of Southington non-profit “Ally G’s Everyday Angels,” recognized several students last week for their dedication to volunteer work and giving back to their community.

After a banquet for the students and their families at Zingarella’s on Dec. 2, Genovese and the non-profit’s board of directors presented seven students from Southington High School and Bristol Eastern High School with plaques to recognize their contributions to the foundation.

Dedicated to community service for seven-years, Genovese said that at “Ally G’s Everyday Angels”, their mission is “to help anyone in need.”

“Its broad for a reason,” said Genovese.

The foundation hosts dozens of fundraisers each year, in addition to taking confidential requests for those in need. Contributing everything from Thanksgiving mails to needy families to holiday treats for troops overseas, Genovese said there is always at least one fundraiser going on.

Connor Watson, Victoria Castillo, Aparna Athreya, Jessica Kerchis, Sondra Keltner, Sarah Anderson, and Mary Bilodeau were recognized at the banquet for their service to this year’s fundraisers.

Three students who “went above and beyond” with their commitment to volunteerism and academic excellence were recognized a second time at the event –

Keltner, Castillo, and Watson were each applauded for countless hours dedicated to different efforts throughout the year.

Watson, a 14-year-old freshman at SHS, spent an entire day sorting through Halloween candy with Genovese this past October. This year, the foundation sent more than 1,600 bags of candy to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, and Operation Gratitude.

“I felt that the kids at the hospital and troops would really appreciate it and have a better holiday,” Watson said about his service.

Genovese said that, although she does not encourage volunteer service to earn recognition, she believes it is important to honor children who are dedicating so much of their time at such a young age.

The founder also hopes that recognizing active youth volunteers will encourage other young residents to find a way to get involved and give back as well.

“I think it’s very important to teach our children that giving has as much of a reward as receiving,” said Genovese.

Honorees, family, and friends gather after the ceremony. Front, from left, Melanie Zissopoulos, Joan Vallee, Judy Lebel, Ricky Albert, Nancy Rama, Phillip Sirois, and Michael Graziano. Back, Bob Brown, Timmy Vallee, and Paul Sirois. (Photo by Tammi Naudus)

By JOHN GORALSKI
EDITOR

On Monday, Dec. 7, honorees, family, and friends crowded into the entrance to the Southington High School auditorium to celebrate this year’s inductees onto the Southington High School Wall of Honor. The ninth induction class featured an artist, a Broadway producer, and a soldier that gave his life in Afghanistan.

Wall of Honor founder Bob Brown, a retired teacher and current Board of Education member, celebrated the trio for their success after graduation.

“Without a doubt, one of the greatest award that any teacher or town gets is to see former students go off and do wonderful things in the world,” said Brown. “This is why this is one of the most special activities that we do each year. It’s one of my favorite things to do.”

To be inducted onto the wall of honor, inductees must be Southington High School graduates that have been recognized for contributions in at least one of three categories: humanitarian work, community service, or lifetime achievement. People can also be nominated for being honored by significant awards.

“It seems that every time you turn around, there are negative comments everywhere: on TV, in print media, and in social media in general,” said Southington Superintendent of Schools Timothy Connellan. “To have something like this that’s so positive for our community is fantastic. I wish more people could be here for something like this.”

Sgt. Maj. Phillip R. Albert was honored posthumously. Dale Zarrella (Class of 1983) and Michael Graziano (Class of 1983) were also honored.

Albert was born in Southington and raised in Terryville, but he graduated from SHS as part of the Agriculture Science and Technology program (Vo-Ag). He joined the US Army after graduation and rose to the highest enlisted rank. He served as a drill sergeant and became an accomplished sniper.

Albert completed deployments in Africa, West Germany, Alaska, Georgia, Colorado and Texas, and he participated in the capture of Manuel Noriega. He earned the Purple Heart during three deployments to Afghanistan, and was killed in action in 2003 during a helicopter crash in the mountains of Afghanistan.

“We have a tradition that, if somebody graduated from our school and went off to fight for our country and was killed in conflict, we put them on the Wall of Honor,” said Brown. “We started with the Vietnam Conflict era. We did Afghanistan and Iraq, and we’ll eventually go back further to Korea and World War II.”

Zarrella has been well-known in town since the age of 17, when he sculpted the crucifix and the sculpture of the Holy Family at St. Dominic’s Church. After graduation, he moved to Hawaii and became a world renowned sculptor, painter, and master craftsman.

Zarrella’s sculptures and paintings have appeared in the finest corporate and private collections throughout the world. His most notable works include bronze sculptures of Saint Damien and Saint Marianne of Molokai at the Vatican, life-sized wooden replicas of both statues at the Memorial Museum in Honolulu, the mermaid dream sculpture, and wooden carvings of Hawaiian Royalty in Maui.

He did work for Pope Benedict and recently met with Pope Francis in Philadelphia. Outside of the art world, he became director of Hawaii’s few green turtle breeding projects. Somehow, he still finds time to visit his hometown to mentor local art students at the high school.

Graziano received a master’s degree in fine arts from Temple University in 1991 before making the move to Broadway and taking New York City by storm.

He was a volunteer since the start for Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS, the American theatre industry’s grass-roots response to the global AIDS crisis, and he has led the way with fundraising and staging of live events. Graziano worked his way up to a producing director, and the actors that he has worked with reads like a “Who’s Who” for Hollywood.

Michael Graziano displays his plaque during the ceremony. Graziano expressed his appreciation for his Southington schooling. (Photo by Tammi Naudus)

Along the way, he produced events at Yankee Stadium, Carnegie Hall, the Roseland Ballroom, the Hammerstein Ballroom, Times Square, Broadway’s New Amsterdam Theatre, the Palace Theatre, and the Minskoff Theatre. His efforts have raised over $150 million to support causes, including the victims of Hurricane Katrina, the Indian Ocean tsunami, Hurricane Sandy, while supporting women’s health issues, marriage equality, and arts programs for underserved youth.

Now a freelance event producer in New York, his current project is “Voices for the Voiceless: Stars for Foster Kids” starring Kristin Chenoweth, Tina Fey, Megan Hilty, and Rosie O’Donnell.

“It’s amazing to be back here,” Graziano told the crowd. “We didn’t have an auditorium here (when I attended). We didn’t have a lot of arts back then, but I was a class president. I always felt that, once I started doing what I did on Broadway, it was much like being the class president of Broadway. I used all those things I learned: how to manage people, how to get people to volunteer for you, and how to get people to believe in what they do for you. I really learned all of that here at Southington High School.”

Connellan said that this is what makes the Wall of Honor such an important event. “When you have someone like our last recipient talk about how he gained all the skills that he has and many of his characteristics by being a member of this community and a graduate of Southington High School, that’s very fulfilling,” he said.

Brown is now accepting nominations for next year’s class. Nominations can be sent to him at RBrown@SouthingtonSchools.org.

“I’m sure that everyone can think of somebody else that belongs on this wall. Please nominate them,” said Brown. “It’s a huge honor. When you look at these names, we have some terrific people on the wall. This town has produced some amazing people that have gone off and done amazing things.”

Photos by TAMMI NAUDUS

Click to enlarge

The Orchard Valley Garden Club received two awards at the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut October meeting. From left, OVGC president Marge Muzyczka and Irene Langlais, chair of the garden club at Thalberg Elementary School.

The Orchard Valley Garden Club (OVGC) of Southington were honored with two awards at the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut meeting in October. The local garden club received the Luckner Youth Award and the Pamela C. Hebert Garden of Youth Award, which is a New England regional award.

The awards were a result of OVGC partnership projects with students at Genevieve’s Teaching Garden Club at Thalberg Elementary School, which is currently in its fourth year. The Thalberg club is made up of fourth and fifth grade students, under the leadership of teachers Linda Reilly and Tony Arru with Irene Langlais as the OVGC chairperson.

Students in the club give up their recess twice each week to participate in the garden and various club projects. The primary goal of the school garden program is to have students glean knowledge of gardening through participation in planning, planting, maintaining a garden, and learning sustainable practices such as composting and organic garden care.

The club also has various indoor winter projects, including floral design, bird identification and bird feeders, starting plants from seed, and creating greeting cards from photos of their garden.

Kennedy Middle School announced their November students of the month. Front, from left, Jake DellaVecchia, Tyler Smith, Madelyn Lukanik, and Nadilie Germain. Back, Principal Richard Terino, Christopher Taylor, Vincent Fioriello, Griffin Campbell, Natalie Foligno, Chloe Stanish, Leah Hinckley, Lilliana Perron, Michael Maino, and Assistant Principal Susanne Vitcavage.

John F. Kennedy Middle School in Plantsville announced the names of its November students of the month. Teachers nominated these students for their academic improvement on performance, exemplary citizenship, and/or participation in extracurricular activities.

Sixth grade students of the month are Vincent Fioriello, Madelyn Lukanik, Lilliana Perron, and Tyler Smith.

Vinny is a hardworking student who always strives to do his best. Well mannered, he is a self-advocate who knows himself as a student and recognizes which strategies work to achieve his success. Along the way, he uses his sense of humor to shrug off setbacks. Vinny is a member of the cross country team and the ski/snowboard club and he plays town lacrosse. As a volunteer, he rakes leaves and shovels driveways. In his free time he sells golf balls.

Madelyn displays admirable leadership skills. She works well with her peers and always goes above and beyond what is asked of her. She is a member of the orchestra, the school newspaper and the swing choir. Madelyn plays town softball and includes among her interests playing the piano, dancing, and writing, particularly her own songs.

Lillianna is the sixth grade Unified Arts student of the month. In class she is kind and supportive as well as an active participant in accepting challenges presented by her teachers. Lilliana also helps by welcoming new students to the classroom. She plays town soccer and enjoys horseback riding, hiking, camping and math.

Tyler comes to class with a positive attitude and a willingness to work. Daily he puts forth his best efforts, and he prides himself on being successful. Tyler is a member of the Stock Market Club and the band. He plays town baseball and basketball and volunteers at the Eastern Regionals. In addition to sports, he enjoys reading.

Seventh grade students of the month are Griffin Campbell, Jake DellaVecchia, Nadilie Germain and Michael Maino.

Griffin is an extremely conscientious student and a quiet leader. An honor roll student, he is always “on his game”. Griffin is a member of the band and the woodwinds, and he plays town baseball. He volunteers at the Elks Lodge where he stocks shelves, sets up and cleans up after events. Outside school he plays tennis, reads, runs and rides his bike.

Jake is a conscientious student who actively participates in his classes. Polite and compassionate, he is always ready to help a peer who is in need of support. A member of the Voices of Thunder, he plays town and travel baseball. Jake volunteers to care for foster cats and to organize first aid kits for New Britain sports, he likes to write and watch movies.

Nadilie has great enthusiasm for her academics and is always willing to support peers who are struggling. A collaborative group leader, Nadilie is active in the Asset Building Committee, the Newspaper Club and the Writer’s Club. She volunteers at the PES Halloween party and for her church’s choir and Vacation Bible School. Nadilie enjoys dancing, writing, baking and reading in her spare time.

Michael is the seventh grade Unified Arts student of the month. A hardworking student, he is always helpful without ever being asked to do so. He works both independently and within a group as an outstanding participant and always with a smile on his face. Michael is a member of the bowling club, the chorus, Minecraft, Junior Next Steps and Unified Sports. He plays town soccer and enjoys spending time with his cat.

Eighth grade students of the month are Natalie Foligno, Leah Hinckley, Chloe Stanish and Christopher Taylor.

Natalie is kind and polite to all. She is compassionate with her peers and always willing to lend a helping hand. She is a member of the Builder’s Club, the honor roll, the NJHS, Unified Theater, Unified Sports, Junior Next Steps and the chorus. Natalie plays town lacrosse and basketball and she spends her SSR time working with students in need. She also volunteers with the adaptive soccer program sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department. Away from school, Natalie enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Leah is a conscientious student who is an active participant in class. Courteous and responsible, she has an excellent work ethic and relationship with her peers. Leah belongs to the band and to the Ping Pong Club. She also plays town football and softball.

Chloe, a leader among her peers, demonstrates excellent qualities of scholarship and character. She works very hard to balance her academic endeavors and her extra-curricular activities. Chloe is an honor roll student and a member of the band, the stage band, the NJHS. Peer Advocates, the Regionals and the volleyball team. She participates in town volleyball clinics and she volunteers at her church fairs and for the Salvation Army’s Ringing the Bell campaign. Chloe also enjoys singing and skiing.

Chris is the World Language student of the month. He works diligently to make World Language a part of his daily life, and he strives to use Spanish both inside and outside the classroom. Chris is polite, respectful, conscientious and hardworking. An honor roll student, he is a member of Mathcounts, the NJHS, the Peer Advocates, the band and the stage band. He plays town basketball and volunteers for the Junior Leaders Club at the YMCA.

On Thursday, Dec. 10, Flanders Elementary School held a holiday  bazaar where students were able to take a break and shop for family and friends. Above, Brooke Volmar, Lila Karabin, Enils Veizaj, and Calli Kokoska browse through the inventory. (Photos by TAMMI NAUDUS)

Valentina Lam sifts through the book selection.

Three kindergarten classes and 5th grade students involved in the STEPS program at Hatton Elementary School collected more than 1,500 soupand hot chocolate donations for the “Warm Your Neighbor” initiative.

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

For the month of December, Hatton Elementary School kindergarten students created a new winter initiative called “Warm Your Neighbor.”

Combining two assets from the Southington Town Wide Effort to Promote Success (STEPS) program, students focused on the concepts of “Youth as Resources” and “Service to Others.”

The result was the collection of more than 1,500 soup, oatmeal, and hot chocolate donations, that students and staff will distribute to bus drivers, crossing guards, and senior citizens throughout Southington.

Three Kindergarten classes, taught by Kathy Wagner, Kathy Magnoli, and Alissa Votino with long-term substitute Karen Dauphinee, helped the five and six-year-olds lead the collection of donations.

Hatton students gather with some of the donations from the “Warm Your Neighbors” campaign.

Fifth grade students serving as STEPS representatives assembled coffee-mug shaped cards decorated by Hatton students, and helped raise awareness about the three-week fundraiser by making announcements during lunch.

“The outreach is absolutely amazing,” said P.J. DeBisschop, second-grade teacher and Asset Building Representative between Hatton and STEPS.

With just under 450 students, 1,500 donations came in this December, with students from every grade level dropping off donations at tables set up in the school’s entryway each morning.

“The kindergarteners were the geniuses behind the idea,” said DeBisschop, “but the whole school really came together.”

Charity Baker, a teacher-leader for the district, said the school “had such a great response,” and “it was a great way to bring the whole school together.”

In her first-year working with Hatton, Baker said the “Warm Your Neighbor” project was a great way to feel connected to the whole community.

“It was a great opportunity for the school to collaborate and warm some hearts,” said Baker.

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.

DePaolo Middle School announced their December Students of the Month. Front, from left, Andrew Bafuma, Sammi Bray, Amela Dishnica, Emily Goulet, Sarah Sisto, and Connor Bouffard. Back, Asst. Principal Chris Palmieri, Mason Simons, Emelie Brady, Taylor Collar, Steven DellaFerra, Carlie Kubisek, Dan Yu, and Principal Frank Pepe.

DePaolo Middle School announced their Students of the Month for December.

In sixth grade Amela Dishnica, Connor Bouffard, and Mason Simons were selected by their teams.

Amela is the daughter of Ilir and Olsa Dishnica and received the President’s Award at Thalberg. She is a part of the DePaolo Leadership Program and volunteered for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival. Amela is involved in Con Brio and participates in gymnastics.

Connor is the son of Ryan and Traci Bouffard and received the Presidential Academic Achievement Award in fifth grade. He is in the Environmental Club and the DePaolo Factor Team 2.0. Connor also plays the trumpet in the school band.

Mason is the son of Erika Simons and volunteered for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival. He plays soccer and is involved in the school newspaper. Mason also plays the piano.

In seventh grade Sammi Bray, Sarah Sisto, and Taylor Collar were selected by their teams.

Sammi is the daughter of Marie and Brian Bray and is in the National Junior Honor Society. She is part of Junior Next Steps and the DePaolo Leadership Program. Sammi is also part of the school ABC team for STEPS, the sign language club, and ran on the school cross country team.

Sarah is the daughter of Paola Palma Sisto and Rob Sisto and was recognized at a Principal’s Breakfast for academic achievement. She is an altar server and helps as a Girlscout leader. Sarah ran on the school cross country team, is a Community Service Volunteer and is part of Junior Next Steps.

Taylor is the daughter of Sandra Collar and consistently earned honors throughout 6th grade. She volunteers her time at the Talcott Center for Child Development in Farmington where she serves as a mentor to children of all ages. Taylor also spends her time horseback riding.

In eighth grade Steven DellaFera, Emily Goulet, and Carlie Kubisek were selected by their teams.

Steven is the son of Francis and Jill DellaFera and was recognized at a Principal’s Breakfast for academic achievement and citizenship. He is a Calendar House volunteer and volunteered for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival. Steven is in the ski club and plays for the Southington Gems.

Emily is the daughter of Sally and John Goulet Jr. and was recognized twice for academic achievement at a Principal’s Breakfast. Emily plays travel soccer for the Town of Southington and plays soccer in the league at Rec Park. Emily volunteered for Alex’s Lemonade Stand at the Apple Harvest Festival.

Carlie is the daughter of Joe Kubisek and was recognized at a Principal’s Breakfast. She ran on the school cross country team, is in the Leadership Program, and is in the color guard. Outside of school, Carlie participates in gymnastics.

In Unified Arts Emelie Brady, Andrew Bafuma, and Daniel Yu were selected.

Emelie is the daughter of Erika and Robert Brady and received the Presidential Award in elementary school. She takes private lessons at JC Music and plays the saxophone in the school band. Emelie also plays in the jazz band.

Andrew is the son of Roxanne and Michael Bafuma and has consistently been an honor roll student. He is a Calendar House volunteer and assists at his church’s vacation bible school. Andrew played on the school soccer team and is in the jazz band.

Daniel is the son of Weiduo and Cindy Yu and is in the National Junior Honor Society. He is in Mathcounts and plays the trumpet. Daniel is involved in robotics and karate as well.

Joshua Bonefant, 5, reads to Kelley Elementary School custodian Larry LaComb during a special reading exercise with the school’s kindergarteners. Bonefant selected LaComb as his reading partner.

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

After ending a unit on the power of reading, Rose Risser’s kindergarten class at Kelley Elementary School chose staff members for a chance to share their new skill.

“We were giving the gift of reading to special teachers in our school,” said Risser, whose class of five and six-year-olds spent the morning of Thursday, Dec. 17 reading to cafeteria workers, custodians, and assistants.

Reese Marek, 5, reads to Patty Siarkowski, a paraprofessional who works in Rose Ritter’s elementary school class.

Before heading into their holiday break, the Kelley kindergarteners finished a curriculum unit that taught them different skills to improving their reading.

The skills were presented as different “super powers” and included the use of a reading partner, pointing to words on the page while reading aloud, re-reading any mistakes, and persisting through difficult words.

Jill Chapman, a literacy coach for the district, said the end of this unit is really when the students can say with confidence that they know how to read.

Chapman said she and the school staff “thought that sharing the gift of reading would be a great way to celebrate the end of this unit, and start a new unit with excitement.”

The kindergarteners shared their excitement by reading to the staff members they chose.

Circled up on the carpet in Risser’s classroom, Joshua Bonefant read “Wake Up Daddy” to custodian Larry LaComb, while Reese Marek, Nadia Imme, Toa Onner, all read to Patty Siarkowski, a paraprofessional for Risser’s class.

Each staff member received a letter naming them “a special person” and a decorated gift bag to accompany their gift.

Cole Leftkowicz, 6, (right), and Jonathon Coleman, 5, (left), read to Kelley Elementary School cafeteria worked Barbara Bartlett.

Cole Leftkowicz and Jonathan Coachman walked down to the school cafeteria to share their stories, including a book called “The Red Puppy”, with cafeteria worker Barbara Bartlett.

“This is the best gift I’ve gotten,” said Bartlett, who has been at Kelley for nearly 14-years. “They have so much enthusiasm.”

While the students read actively in class to practice their skills, this activity gave them the opportunity to read entire books aloud to the staff and their classmates.

“We feel they’ve been getting the gift of reading their whole lives,” said Chapman, “and now they can return that gift.”

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.

Derynosky students raised $300 through a collection of spare change spearheaded by Aiden Rand and Hailey Zaczynski, above, during a recent school fundraiser, and American Legion Kiltonic Post 72 matched those funds. Together, they were able to purchase 20 iPod shuffles to be used in the music and memory program at the Rocky Hill veterans home. Southington Walmart manager, Daniel Eshod, offered a discounted price to assist the purchase.

Photos by TAMMI NAUDUS

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From left, veterans Bob Klezun and John-DeMello, Derynoski students Hailey Zaczynski and Aiden Rand, Derynoski teacher Maryann Castrilli, and Derynoski Principal Jan Verderame.

Veteran John DeMello thanks the event organizers, Hailey Zaczynski and Aiden Rand.

Haley Zaczynski and Aiden Rand discuss the project.

Veteran John DeMello thanks the event organizers, Hailey Zaczynski and Aiden Rand.

Jessica Howe (left) and Alexander Statkevich (center) are presented with the Board of Education Certificate of Excellence by BOE Chairman Brian Goralski (right) on Dec. 10. The two students were awarded the 2015-2016 Superintendents Awards.

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

Two Southington High School (SHS) students were awarded the Connecticut Association of Public Schools Superintendents Student Awards for the 2015-2016 academic year.

On Dec. 10, Alexander Statkevich and Jessica Howe were recognized by Superintendent Timothy Connellan and the Board of Education (BOE) for their academic success and extracurricular and athletic involvement in their school and community.

The two seniors both rank in the Top 10 of the SHS Senior class. Howe ranks fifth out of 467 seniors, and Statkevich ranks eighth.

“This is a recognition for leadership, service to the school and community, academic prowess and ability, and service to others,” said Superintendent Timothy Connellan.

In addition to being in the top 1 percent of her class, Howe plays three varsity sports and serves as a captain for soccer and indoor track. She has been a state qualifier for indoor track all four years, and an active volunteer for unified track.

“She is a leader in the classroom as well as on the field,” said Connellan.

The senior also volunteers at her church, has served as a peer-tutoring director, and is a member of the National Honor Society.

“She is a driven and determined scholar,” said Connellan of Howe, who has maintained a cumulative weighted GPA of 109.44.

Statkevich is also a member of the National Honor Society and has maintained a cumulative weighted GPA of 108.534.

“Alex is viewed by faculty as a consummate student,” said Connellan, who said he has excelled in many Advanced Placement courses.

With an interest in science and dentistry, he has completed more than 80 hours of shadowing in general dentistry and oral surgery and was selected to participate in the University of Connecticut’s High School Mini Medial and Dental Medical program.

At SHS, Statekevich is active in the music program. He is a four-year member of the marching band, a brass captain this year, and a member of the jazz ensemble, jazz combo, brass music ensemble, and “Surround Sound Band.”

Outside of school, he is a leader in the Youth Church Leadership at Mary Our Queen Catholic Church, where he has taken three summer mission trips and taught Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) classes in the church’s educational program.

A luncheon was held last month by the Farmington Valley Superintendents Association, where the students and their families were invited to celebrate the award.

“It’s so nice to be able to celebrate student accomplishments,” said Connellan, who said the accomplishments shared at the BOE meeting are just a sample of their three-page lists of academic and extra curricular successes.

Both students were presented with Certificates of Excellence by the BOE. Chairman Brian Goralski thanked the students for representing the BOE on the state level and wished them future academic success.

To comment on this story or to contact staff writer Taylor Hartz, email her at THartz@SouthingtonObserver.com.

By TAYLOR HARTZ
STAFF WRITER

The Southington High School Marching Band was recognized in a Celebration of Excellence by the Board of Education (BOE) during their Dec. 10 meeting, for winning the State Championship for the seventh year and finishing fourth at the U.S. Bands National Championship.

Also at the meeting, the BOE approved a second reading of the Capital Plan for  the years 2016 to 2021. The second reading included pricing for roof repairs and changes to fire alarm systems at Derynoski Elementary School and Kelley Elementary School.

The board discussed plans to wait until 2019 to 2021 for the fire alarm updates and for remodeling VOAG classrooms at Southington High School.

The reading of the plan was unanimously approved.

A first reading of plans for the 2016 to 2017 school calendar was reported by Superintendent Timothy Connellan, the BOE heard three options for the calendar, with changes varying for the first and last days of the school year.

The student representatives for the BOE said they favored option one, with school starting on Aug. 25, and finishing on June 5. Options two and three start and end at later dates, and avoid starting school with a full five-day week.

Connellan said he supported the second option, which most closely aligned with the Capitol Region Education Council regional calendar. Bob Brown, Colleen Clark, Junaita Champagne, Terry Lombardi, and Goralski also shared their support for option two.

Zaya Oshana said that he supported the third option, while Chairman Goralski said he would only consider options one and two. Brown also shared support for option three, saying he had heard feedback from parents and teachers that the start date for option one was too early.

“I was hoping we could eliminate one of these tonight,” said Goralski, “I’m hoping to hear from the public in support of options one and two.”

On Monday, Dec. 21,  DePaolo Middle School students rang in the holiday break with a festive musical concert. DePaolo’s sixth grade stringed orchestra, above, regales the crowd with holiday favorites.

Photos by TAMMI NAUDUS

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