The Sound

All Eyes on the Y: Controlled Burn Clears Way for Soundview

2009-01-08T19:24:01Z

BRANFORD:

   Despite the fierce flames there were plenty of smiles when this house on East Main Street went up in smoke last weekend. The fire department conducted a controlled burn of the structure as part of the YMCA construction plans.

   More than 100 residents showed up for the kick off to the YMCA’s home stretch toward construction of its new facility. Traffic along Route 1 slowed to a crawl as even more on-lookers watched the fire department keep the conflagration at bay.

   Branford Fire Department Chief Jack Ahern said these burns are invaluable training for the men and women of his department. According to Ahern, the department conducts about six of these controlled events every year, and would prefer to stage even more.

   “We used to have a training facility on Pleasant Point Road, but had to abandoned that facility, so these burns are very important to us,” Ahern said. “This is excellent training for our members.”

Pictured: The Branford Fire Department–and a large contingent of onlookers–kept a close eye on the controlled burn on the East Main Street house. The burn was part of the YMCA construction plans.

Photo by Ben Rayner

Who’s on West?: Town Considers Main Street Renaming

2009-01-08T19:20:45Z

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:
BRANFORD:

   What’s in a name? Apparently quite a bit, and town officials are contemplating renaming the Route 1 sections of East, North, and West Main streets in Branford to eliminate confusion and make Branford a more convenient destination for visitors.

   The Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with the town’s Economic Development Commission (EDC), is currently seeking public input on the matter.

   During the Town Vision Project (TVP) process it was noted that visitors and business people find the current Route 1 street names in Branford to be confusing. In an effort to make Branford friendlier to visitors and easier for businesses, TVP recommended changing the name of the U.S. Route 1 stretch in Branford to Boston Post Road to make it consistent with many shoreline towns.

   According to town officials, the naming of streets in Branford is under the authority of the Board of Assessors. If it’s decided that the renaming should go forward, then the EDC, with the support of the Chamber, would propose the change to the town.

   The obvious concern for town officials is safety–will name changes have a negative impact on police, emergency, and fire response? First Selectman Unk DaRos said he believes changing the names would actually make the area safer in the long run by lessening confusion. He said he hopes all departments will welcome the initiative.

   “The thing of it is, you’ve got five different Main streets right now,” said DaRos. “That’s confusing for everybody. A lot of people–I’m talking folks who live here–can’t tell you where East Main Street stops. Imagine what it’s like for out-of-towners and visitors…I think the two best entities to tackle this are the Chamber and the Economic Development Commission. They are on this right now.”

   Commerce is also a concern, especially in the already tough economy. New letterhead and business cards would be added expenses necessitated by the project. Chamber President Ed Lazarus said, though, that with a year’s lead time, businesses could prepare and factor in any additional costs. From what members tell him, Lazarus said, the benefit of the name changes might outweigh any initial costs to businesses and individuals.

   “If we could time it so that businesses had the warning, it would be the best scenario,” Lazarus said. “There is a trade off, but if customers can’t find you, what’s the point of anything else? I think it makes sense for all the Chamber members. We have more than 100 members along that stretch and my sense is a name change would benefit everybody. We are still in the information-collecting stage, so we want to hear what people think.”

   According to DaRos, at least a year of lead time would be given to all residents and occupants with affected addresses before a change would be implemented. Officials also said a plan for the Post Office to forward first class mail for an additional six months after the change would be requested.

   “We will be creating forums and other opportunities where the public can give their views firsthand and will strive to keep you fully informed during the data gathering process,” said Chamber Government Relations Committee Chair Jim Rochford. “It is our desire to only support this recommendation if we conclude that the net impact is significantly positive for the business and residential community as a whole.”

   DaRos said that, in the final analysis, if the residents want it, it will get done but if no support arises, the matter could be dropped.

   “We’ve got to have everybody on board for this to work,” said DaRos. “If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work, but it seems like something that would be best for all of the town. I like to give every reasonable idea some daylight and to see if it’s a good one.”

Police Incident Report: Dec. 24 to 30

2009-01-08T19:18:38Z

Super Kid

2009-01-08T19:16:12Z

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:
NORTH BRANFORD:

   Just imagine for a moment that it’s your doctor breaking the news that your nine-month-old child has cancer–just imagine the disbelief, shock, and horror. It’s a nightmare that’s all too real for the Criscio family–Raeanne, her husband James, and baby James, Fortunately, despite the dire diagnosis, the prognosis is good and with the support of family and friends they are confident little James will be healthy again soon.

   It sounds like a cliché, “Every parent’s worst nightmare,” but it really is, says Raeanne.

   What began as just minor swelling on baby James’s neck soon worried doctors and he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer.

   “He was about 9 1/2 months and we noticed a little bit of swelling on his neck. Honestly, we didn’t really think too much of it. We thought it was a swollen lymph node and that everything would be fine,” says Raeanne.

   “It never even crossed my mind that it could be cancer, but it got bigger and they sent us to the emergency room. They ran all kinds of tests and decided to biopsy. By this time, we knew it was a mass that shouldn’t be there but it still didn’t cross our minds it could be this.”

   There was little time to take in the news, with therapy and treatment beginning immediately. The Criscio family was thrust straight into a dizzying procession of specialists and doctors appointments, with their focus on baby James.

   “I think I was in shock for a while. My husband, too,” says Raeanne. “It took a while for us to process all the information we were getting. It was good in some ways to know what was going on and to have an answer and begin to take the steps to fix it, but it really was overwhelming.

   “The doctors are very encouraging,” she continues. “It was diagnosed early, which is the key to fighting it. After 18 months, this type of cancer gets very aggressive and is much harder to treat. So we are actual thankful for that.”

   Though James’s doctors at Yale are confident he can make a full recovery, Raeanne still has an incredible mountain to climb. While her baby boy demonstrates that he’s certainly still a normal one-year-old beginning to walk and teethe, he has a chest tube and is under almost constant care to make sure that he is well monitored as he undergoes chemotherapy and numerous tests, spending a month or more in the hospital.

   At a time when she’d normally be watching the wonder on her son’s face as they spend the holidays with friends and family, Raeanne and husband James have been keeping a guarded eye on their boy’s health. Baby James’s immune system is almost non-existent because of the chemotherapy. Normal childhood fevers and sickness can quickly escalate into serious medical problems, so the family has to keep their young isolated from almost everyone.

   “He has been doing pretty well. He gets nauseous and irritable, but all in all, he is holding up pretty well,” says Raeanne. “He’s staring to walk and fall down a lot, which causes big bruises because of the chemo. That is tough to see, but he’s really just trying to be normal in most ways.”

   Raeanne says the busy schedule allows her forget the crisis and concentrate on getting through the day. Despite the difficulties, she and her husband have been bolstered by the support and love of family and friends.

   “It really has been scary,” says Raeanne. “But honestly we really don’t have time to dwell on it. There is just too much to do. We don’t have the time to think about it. But we are very thankful for all of the community support of our family and friends, especially their prayers. I want to thank everyone–they have all made this bearable. They have done so much for us.”

On Sunday, Jan. 24, the Criscio family is holding a pasta dinner to benefit baby James and the family’s medical expenses. The event is at Fire Company #3 on Middletown Avenue from 5 to 8 p.m. There is a $15 donation; children under six are free. There will be plenty of food, a DJ, and raffle. For more info, contact Laura Burich at 203-627-9098 or Tracey DeMilo at 203-996-7778.

Pictured: Raeanne Criscio and her husband James face the most difficult challenge for any parent, as their son James Peter begins the battle to overcome neuroblastoma, a childhood cancer. Fortunately, with community and family support, the outlook is positive.

Photo by Ben Rayner

Residents Give Founder’s Village Proposal Thumbs Up

2009-01-08T19:11:35Z

By Ben Rayner, Sound Senior Staff Writer:
BRANFORD:

   Despite some vocal opponents, there are many neighbors of the 12-acre Founder’s Village tract who are happy with the town’s recent announcement of a deal with the developer. The current proposal has a 120-unit, senior housing facility that would combine with the existing Rose Hill apartments.

   Critics say the plan is still too intrusive and will invariably cause problems, but many neighbors are willing to give the new proposal a chance in town committees. Past proposals included a bigger unit number and entry and exit onto busy Cedar Street.

   The new design is scaled back in size and the access will be off of Hillside Avenue, not Cedar Street. The town has entered into a legal agreement and the developer must show final plans by April 30.

   Stan Konesky, who lives on Ivy Street and whose home would have bordered the development’s driveway according to previous designs, said the new plan is something with which he and many neighbors can live.

   “I think I can say we are happy here. This was an eight year fight and it may have taken a long time, but it proves that the little guy can win sometimes,” said Konesky. “This will be a benefit to the town in a lot of ways, not just for those of us around it.”

   According to Konesky, the reduced number of units and several other factors were at play in the decision by neighbors to give this version a thumbs’ up.

   “There was a lot wrong with the old plan. The entrances and exits were either on Cedar or Ivy, either of which would have been a bad idea,” Konesky said. “I found both [developer] Alex Vigliotti and [First Selectman] Unk DaRos were right to listen to the people’s concerns. I have nothing against either and I think they found an agreement that is the best fit for everybody.

   Konesky credited both DaRos and former first selectman and current Third Selectman John Opie for keeping the issue at the forefront.

   As it is now being discussed, the entire top portion of the hillock that encompasses six-plus acres would remain undeveloped and would become a public park. Sewer concerns would be addressed by the new units’ tying straight into the town’s upgraded system and presumably having less effect on the flooding that still occurs in this section of Branford.

   Konesky and other bordering neighbors cautioned that their enthusiasm for the plan could wane if the various committees, including Inland Wetlands and Planning & Zoning, have issues with the new proposal.

   DaRos said criticism is limited to a few individuals. He said the concept was the best idea for the town and the developer.

   “This has gone on long enough. The town has spent a quarter of a million dollars in legal fees. Something has to happen. How much more do we want to spend on it?” said DaRos. “I think most of the neighbors down there understand this is the best deal. It has to end sometime.”

   Park Place residents Joe and Helen Herget agreed that they and most of their neighbors are confident the plan as now proposed makes the most sense for Branford.

   “Remember this was not done behind closed doors. This was all out in the open. The town and everyone who worked on this knew what the proposal was. I think this is quite an accomplishment,” said Helen Herget. “If no major problems arise in the review process, then I think this is an extraordinarily accomplishment. This is what the town needs and will protect those of us still living here. I think it’s an excellent solution for [Alex] Vigliotti, the neighbors, and the town.”

Paul Lipkvich: A Lifelong Athlete

2009-01-08T16:31:38Z

By Jennifer Small, Sound Sports Editor:

   Though Paul Lipkvich is now 87, the memories from his playing days at Branford High School are clear in his head. He recently had the opportunity to relive those moments as he was inducted into the Branford Sports Hall of Fame in November.

   “It was quite an honor,” says Paul, who has lived in East Haven for the past 57 years.

   While Paul has a long list of athletic accomplishments, there are two that stand out.

   “Making the All-Star Navy team for baseball was memorable,” says Paul. “The other was making the varsity basketball team as a freshman and scoring the winning the winning basket to beat Derby with a minute to play. I was shaking.”

   That same year, the Hornets’ basketball team that went undefeated, going 21-0 to win both the Housatonic League Conference and Class B State titles. The Hornets were second in the Housatonic League during his sophomore year.

   Paul was also a varsity baseball player for Branford where he held a .416 batting average. He also played on the Branford All-Star team for which he earned All-Star Shoreline honors.

   Though baseball was his favorite sport, Paul found that his life was greatly enriched by athletics.

   “I just liked baseball better—I can’t really pinpoint why—I just liked it best and being outside,” he says. “I was very hotheaded and got kicked out of a few games, but it made me a better person.”

   Paul enlisted in the Navy as a Navy Seabee in 1942. Three years later, he was honorably discharged. He settled in East Haven where he opened Paul’s Welding Service and raised his family with his late wife Bernice. The couple had two daughters—Paula Ogden and Susan Bogush.

   After the Navy, Paul remained active with athletics through St. Casmir’s playing baseball, basketball, and bowling. There was some friendly competition for Paul as his older brother Walt also played. He had some friendly competition at home, too.

   “He would take me and my sister out in the yard and pass us the ball after supper,” says Bogush. “But that’s the only thing I had to do with sports.”

   Paul kept up with St. Casmir’s for about 15 years and retired from his business in 1962. He now has four grandchildren—Paul Bogush, Kimberly Spadacenta, Brooke Ogden, and Christopher Ogden—and four great grandchildren—Rebecca, Emma, Annie, and Mya.

   “There’s so many things I love about them,” says Paul. “It’s a happy family.”

   Paul also enjoyed watching his grandson Paul’s rugby games at Stonehill College and following the athletic careers of his nephews, Wayne Lipkvich, Richard Lipkvich, and Gary Lipkvich, who had already been inducted into the Branford Hall of Fame.

   While Paul was honored to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, it was a bittersweet moment for him when he received the letter in the mail.

   “One of my father’s regrets was that Uncle Walt wasn’t there—it was the first thing he said when he got the letter,” says Bogush. “He was a huge influence in his life. But he made sure everyone else took off from work to be there.”

NB Girls’ Basketball Drops Two Close Games to East Haven

2009-01-08T15:47:28Z

By Jennifer Small, Sound Sports Editor:

   Route 80 rivals North Branford and East Haven faced each other twice in three days—on Dec. 27 and 30—to close out 2008. Though the story was different in each game, the result was the same with East Haven taking two victories to even its season at 3-3, while North Branford fell to 3-3.

   “We didn’t play well, our shots weren’t flowing—they’re a decent team and No. 5 [Nicole Acerra] is an excellent player and we couldn’t seem to stop her,” said North Branford Coach Chris Webster. “There’s a lot of little things we’re not doing right and it’s frustrating.”

   In the first game, the Yellowjackets trailed through much of the game but came back to pull out a 39-38 win. The game on Dec. 30 was a different story as East Haven held the lead for all but one minute to come away with a 49-38 victory.

   “I’m very happy. We’re starting to look more and more like a team—we’re starting to be in sync,” said East Haven Coach Anthony Russeull. “I could tell that the work we’re doing in practice is starting to translate over to the games.”

   East Haven’s Nicole Acerra was the x-factor. In game one, she picked up two quick fouls and sat for a good portion of the first half, but she came back and helped her team rally to victory in the second half. She was unstoppable in the second meeting as she controlled the ball and hit her shots, picking up 21 points, including going 6-for-8 from the line.

   “She was the difference,” said Russell. ”Nicole is our field general and keeps playing better and better and her shot’s getting better and better.”

   The first quarter was close with East Haven leading by as many as six behind Acerra, Taylor Barone with two points, and Marie Pisaturo with four. North Branford then put together an eight-point run sparked by Morgan Onofrio’s three pointer and buckets by Tara Ricci and Kelsey Platner and a free throw by Alisha Jasudowich to go up 10-8 with 50 seconds on the clock.

   The lead was short-lived as Acerra hit a field goal 10 seconds later and went 2-for-2 from the line with 10 seconds to play to carry the momentum into the second quarter with her team up 12-10.

   The T-Birds started quick in the second quarter behind a three from Sam Scavo and a basket from Ricci to go up 15-12, but that was the last lead they held as East Haven closed the quarter with a 13-2 run behind two points from Maggie Woodhouse, five from Acerra, and two three-pointers by Barone for a 25-17 halftime advantage.

   North Branford again opened the quarter with a three—this time by Ricci and after East Haven’s Woodhouse went 1-for-2 from the stripe, Ricci scored a field goal to pull the T-Birds within four at 26-22.

   After an East Haven timeout, the Yellowjackets opened up the game with a 12-7 run to end the third quarter. Acerra continued to light it up with a basket, a three, and one from the line, while Julia Waters also hit a three and Barone hit one of her own at the buzzer. For North Branford, Scavo and Platner hits their shots and Ricci nailed a three.

   East Haven led 38-29 in the fourth and this time, the T-Birds saw Jasudowich open the quarter with a three. East Haven answered with two baskets from Woodhouse, one from Acerra, and a free throw by Barone to go up 45-32.

   In the closing two minutes, North Branford outscored East Haven 6-4 behind a bucket from Platner, a free throw from Ricci, and a three from Onofrio.

   Acerra led all scorers with 21 followed by Ricci (NB) with 13, Barone (EH, 12), Scavo (NB, 8), Woodhouse (EH, 7), Platner (NB, 7), Onofrio (NB, 6), Waters (EH, 5), Jasudowich (NB, 4), and Pisaturo (EH, 4).

Pictured: Kelsey Platner was a solid presence for the North Branford girls’ basketball team in both its losses to East Haven during the holiday week.

Photo by John Vanacore

New Year’s Ushers in the First Good Ice

2009-01-08T15:13:15Z

    A cold front was eminent and, while the sun promised to keep us somewhat warm, temperatures were in the mid-20s. Wind from the previous day subsided and we were looking for a catch of panfish. As the ice season was young and these little scrappers were figured to be in the shallows where vegetation was prevalent and forage staged (especially in view of the impending weather), we proceeded to drill a few test jigging holes.

   The arsenal was simple. Light jigging sticks, two-pound test, a variety of micro jigs, grubs, a few pimples, and a couple of favorite chubby darters were made to fit nicely into a small backpack/seat along with a skimmer. Being familiar with this particular lake, we knew that our first attempt positioned us over a point adjacent to a gradual drop off.

   When jigging for small fish, it’s best to establish a smooth, slow, steady routine—jig up for about 15 seconds or so and then down. Since panfish often take bait lightly, any interruption should be met by a hook set. You’ll find that most hookups will come on the drop so stay alert. Keep in mind also that fish react to stimuli and will move accordingly. Food, temperature, weather conditions, oxygen, cover, etc., all play an important role in locating them. They may be bottom-feeding, top-feeding, or suspended.

   These conditions, in part, determine whether the fish caught this time last season or yesterday are in the shallows or have moved to deeper water. As panfish grow, their diets change—going through a spectrum of insects, plankton, shiners, crustaceans, and other assorted invertebrates. Understanding that small fish school and larger ones usually run solo and are often timid, fishing techniques should change accordingly.

   Panfish migrate and being successful in locating them means an understanding of the lake/pond and its bottom structure. An overcast cloudy day during a warm front may, for example, concentrate panfish in the shallows. As the weather changes, they may scatter or go deep. Knowing what their routes may be as dictated by points, dropoffs, natural/unnatural bottom structure, etc., will assist in locating a school or prize catch.

   Add more fish to the cooler by tipping jigs with a grub, worm, or partial shiner, threading a red bead, or adding a shiny spoon above your baited hook or jig for extra weight and flash. It worked for us this day. Fish smart and be safe by not walking on ice thinner than 3½ to 4 inches.

On the Water/Ice

   Happy New Year to all and hello winter, ushering snow, sleet, wind, and frigid temperatures down the aisle, offering more than a tease to shoreline ice anglers. Areas that were relatively protected were able to build ice, enough to sustain light hole-punching and a handful of fishers. Limited spots, however, did manage in excess of four inches where near-shore fishing was productive.

   First ice, so to speak, saw intermittent black crappie bites along with some largemouth bass and yellow perch action. For the most part though, southern Connecticut weather needs to stabilize for more consistent results. Northern Connecticut lakes, ponds, and coves, on the other hand, did bring out more tipups and jigging sticks and northern pike was added to the above catches.

   Prior to the cold fronts moving in, several key rivers were dotted with trout anglers both in the catch and release zones and those open to creel limits. Wind was a key factor but in between blows, fish were more than cooperative. Atlantic salmon fishing in the Shetucket River was on again/off again. At times, the broods were “porpoising,” ignoring everything but their frolic, frustrating anglers no end. Patience paid off and, when the bite was on, 12- to 15-pound fish hooked up.

   Captain’s thought for the week: “A fisherman with little patience catches trees; one with too much catches bottom.”

   Upper reaches of the Thames, CT, and Housey rivers are the places to be for striped bass action. Soft plastics, small jigs, and lightweight deep trolling are the go-to tactics to use. Stripers are usually stacked up this time of year and fishing for them is usually best before a cold front moves in. Go deep and keep the retrieve/troll slow. Remember, you’ll need your 2009 fresh water license to fish this far up.

   Note: Captain Morgan’s has all 2009 fishing, hunting, trapping licenses/permits (rifle, shotgun, archery, muzzle loader, HIP, CT duck stamps, etc.) available including shellfish licenses for Guilford and Madison. Don’t wait until opening day. Git’er done now!

   Time to welcome in the 2009 fishing season so think Captain Morgan’s for all things fishy, including the latest gear, bait, flies/flyfishing, rod/reel repair, clam/crabbing supplies, ice fishing, and licenses/permits. Swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days located at 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 High Welcomes Skiing Club to Its Athletic Lineup

2009-01-08T15:10:34Z

By Chris Piccirillo, Sound Senior Sports Writer:

   Throughout the past few years, skiing has become a big part in the lives of Linda Birbarie and her family, who have often traveled to Vermont in order for her children to experience the fun and challenge of competitive ski racing.

   Still, Birbarie, a Branford resident, had always wondered why the town’s high school didn’t have a skiing team similar to fellow area schools like Guilford and Hand.

   So one day Birbarie was on the chairlift at Vermont’s Okemo Mountain Resort when the person sitting next to her just happened to be Guilford’s skiing coach, Rolf Meyer. Consequently, Birbarie took that opportunity to ask Meyer what she’d have to do in order to start at skiing team at Branford. Meyer gave her some advice, and though the process required Birbarie to handle some daunting tasks like finding a home site for the team to compete and transportation to get to that site, she kept at it because she felt high school athletes at Branford who were interested in skiing deserved the chance to do so.

   Now, months later, through Birbarie’s tireless effort and the support of people like Meyer and the administration at Branford High, the school has indeed started a skiing club with the aspiration of being a Hornets’ varsity squad in two years.

   “I am thrilled about this and want to pinch myself because I cannot believe it is actually happening,” said Birbarie, whose husband, Skip Birbarie, will coach the squad. “It always frustrated me that my children’s friends had programs to race in up in Vermont and that there are a number of schools who have that in the state, but that there was never one in Branford. So I decided to go on a mission to do that and didn’t know who to contact, but as fate would have it, I wound up sitting next to Rolf Meyer on the chairlift at Okemo and he told me some of the things I needed to do.”

   Not only did Meyer extend his expertise to Birbarie; he also offered Branford the opportunity to compete at their home course in Southington and also ride the bus with his Indians to the course. Branford’s first meet of its five this season took place at that course on Jan. 7.

   Branford currently has six athletes on its roster in juniors Andrew Lerman, Kevin Conte, and Austin Birbarie, the latter who is Linda’s son; plus a trio of freshman in Noelle Gillis, Lauren Lerman, and Lauren Birbarie, the latter who is Linda’s daughter.

   Now that the program is up and running, Birbarie says that initial goal will be to get more and more kids involved through the next few years as it will look to climb the ladder towards varsity status.

   “One of our main goals is to get kids who don’t play a winter sport the chance to do something they might like,” Birbarie said. “We want to the team to grow and get more races on our schedule so that we can be recognized as a varsity sport.”

Branford Boys’ Hoops Gets First Two Victories

2009-01-08T15:08:45Z

By Chris Piccirillo, Sound Senior Sports Writer:

   The Branford boys’ basketball team entered this year with some uncertainty as the Hornets didn’t return much varsity experience. After dropping its first two contests, Branford began to see the meshing process take shape last week as the Hornets earned their initial two victories of the season, first beating Middletown 68-66, followed by a 63-46 triumph against North Branford.

   “I’m happy with our progression so far and I really have a lot of hope for this group as we go on,” Coach Jake Palluzzi said. “After we lost to Xavier and West Haven, we had eight days to prepare for our next game and our kids practiced hard so we could get better, which showed in the results.”

   Indeed, the Hornets’ strong practice habits were evident early in the Middletown contest as Palluzzi’s squad held a 27-14 lead after the first quarter. Branford maintained that lead for the duration of the contest and although Middletown chipped its way back into the game, senior captain Casey Dadio sank four free throws down the stretch to ice it before Middletown hit a three-pointer at the end.

   Also having good games for the Hornets were fellow senior captain James Goglia, who scored 19 points; junior Predrag Boskovic, who scored 14; sophomore Kyle Nolan, who had 10 points with 12 rebounds in his first varsity start; and senior Luke Danker, who scored 12 points.

   “This game saw an outstanding effort from our kids and was a chance for us to show the type of team we can become,” Palluzzi said. “We wanted to focus on taking higher percentage shots in this game, which we did, and also mixed things up defensively by going with more zone than man-to-man, which I think frustrated them at times.”

   The Hornets then struggled a bit in the first half against North Branford, yet outscored the Thunderbirds by 18 in the second half to win their second game in as many nights. Dadio led Branford’s scoring with 16 with Goglia adding 12, Nolan contributing 13 points and 10 rebounds, and Danker scoring nine.

   “We needed to pick up our intensity in the second half and our kids came out of the locker room and played with a lot of grit,” said Palluzzi, whose team later dropped a 66-48 decision to Hand to own a record of 2-3. “Once we increased our intensity, everything else fell into place.”

Who’s Poaching in Pisgah?

2009-01-02T18:40:14Z

By Ben Rayner
Sound Senior Staff Writer
SHORELINE

Someone has allegedly been poaching deer along the Branford-North Branford town line in the Pisgah woods, bringing to light tensions over open space use and private property rights. After complaints from residents about illegal hunting, state and local officials are reminding both hunters and passive users of these public and private areas to respect the laws and keep their activities safe and legal.
Several walkers notified area media two weeks ago about possible illegal hunting on Regional Water Authority (RWA) property and North Branford Town and Land Trust acreage.
In this particular instance, due to evidence found at the scene and witness information, on inspection it appears that at least one illegal hunt was conducted on RWA property. Evidence included a deer carcass found near to a tree that had recently held a hunter’s tree stand.
According to town land records, the stands and the remains were all on RWA property where any type of hunting is prohibited. There are several private parcels in proximity to this area where legal hunting with bow or shotgun for deer would be legal.
Town land records clearly show that the area where witnesses reported several tree stands and where at least two and possibly three deer carcasses were found in recent weeks is Water Company property, North Branford town land, and North Branford Land Trust Land. It is illegal to hunt in these parcels in any form and the parcels are clearly posted.
RWA Chief of Police Robert Piascyk said while the Water Authority takes illegal hunting seriously, its does not have a significant problem on its 27,000 acres. According to Piascyk, the RWA has only had one complaint in November, but he encouraged residents to report instances and stated that violators will be arrested.
“We act on any complaints we receive, but we don’t consider it a significant problem,” Piascyk said. “That’s not to say it doesn’t happen–there is no question it does, but it is not a significant complaint.”
Piascyk said the enactment of less restrictive state hunting laws eased pressure to RWA property and took the mystique out of hunting virgin RWA parcels. Piascyk said the RWA tries to keep property accessible for all users.
“If a hunter on an adjacent property shoots a deer and it runs onto our property, no problem,” said Piascyk. “Contact us and we will go out and help find it with a hunter. Just let us know.”
North Branford Deputy Police Chief Michael Doody said the department receives only two or three reports of poaching a year and doesn’t consider it a widespread problem. Most reports are turned over to either the RWA or the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), according to Doody.

Box: Sharing Open Space
Numerous species can be legally hunted in Connecticut and some hunting seasons run all year long. On many portions of state land it is legal to hunt.
According to the state website, responsible hunting promotes wellbeing for recreational land use, keeps all citizens safe, and also helps stimulate the local economy. The DEP also states that poaching needlessly creates controversy and further enflames land use disagreements, which in many cases leads to the banning of all use by anyone.
Passive users of open space should also make sure they understand regulations to ensure they are legally parking, entering, and availing themselves to properties properly and not trespassing on private land adjacent to open space. Those with dogs should have bells and/or orange safety vests for animals and should have their dogs leashed at all times.
Those who suspect illegal hunting is occurring are advised not to confront offenders. Instead, obtain as much information as possible, such as license plates or gun brand names, and contact the DEP. There is also information at the DEP website for hunters who are confronted or have hunts disturbed, including the individual’s rights and how to behave during incidents.
Visit www.ct.gov/dep or call the DEP at 860-424-3000 and hit prompt for “wildlife”, to report problems or illegal hunting.
The RWA does allow fishing at several locations, including Lake Saltonstal, and it also allows use of many trails, which require a use permit. Contact the RWA at www.rwater.com or 203-562-4020, and ask for security.

Branford Year in Review

2009-01-02T18:37:17Z

By Ben Rayner
Sound Senior Staff Writer

Though the tough economic times have colored the media since the summer, a lot more went on in 2008 than a stock tumble. Several longtime issues were resolved after decades of discussion, including the Founder’s Village development. And whether it was an interview with Unk DaRos or an update on Eva Johnson in Ghana, Africa, The Sound introduced readers to some fascinating people.

January

The Stony Creek Puppet House Theater was closed down by police for building code violations. Rumors about illegal activity, including underage drinking and drug use, may have been behind the move to shut down the historic venue. It has yet to reopen.
Former RTM member John Smith was let go from his position as general government buildings director. Some regarded the job as political payback for Smith’s support of embattled former first selectman Cheryl Morris.
The Broadwater controversy, which would ultimately end in a rejection of the project by New York officials, was in full swing as the Federal Regulatory Energy Commission passed a ruling that seemed to clear the way for the natural gas platform in Long Island Sound, 11 miles off the coast of Branford.

February

A non-profit council was created by the Chamber of Commerce to build partnerships with local charitable organizations.
Tabor controversy began to heat up as the town announced plans for the much-disputed 77-acre site. The debate and disagreement over this site was just beginning–by the spring lawsuits and accusations would be flying.
Branford began its first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to supplement police, fire, and EMS services during town-wide emergencies.

March

The Park & Recreation Department received kudos when it announced an innovative plan to go green and save money. The department has decreased pesticide use, saved taxpayer dollars, and grown better and safer fields for town residents.
Atlantic Wire was cited by state courts for repeated environmental violations at its Branford plant. The company was whacked with stiff fines and eventually went out of business that summer.

April

The homicide of Short Beach resident Kathy Hardy reached a sad two-year anniversary. Police are still investigating the death of this mother of two, who died in an arson fire; no suspects have been named in this mysterious case.
New York Governor David Paterson made some new friends along the Connecticut shoreline as he announced that his state would deny critical permits to the proposed Broadwater natural gas platform. The controversial project was sunk and area environmentalists celebrated.
A live World War II hand grenade was discovered by family members in their 95-year-old grandmother’s shed in Stony Creek.

May

RTM member Lonnie Reed (D) announced her intention to seek the 102nd district state representative seat. Six-term incumbent Peter Panaroni kept constituents and party members guessing as to whether he would run in a primary against Reed. In the end, he did not.
The Branford Police Department announced the launch of a state-sanctioned in-house police academy to begin training new officers
Longtime Branford High School Principal Dr. Ed Higgins announced his retirement. Higgins was a much-loved and respected administrator credited with turning around the high school. Assistant Principal Peter Panagoulias was announced as his replacement.

June

All Day Kindergarten got an A+ from administrators and educators as the town announced it would be instituting an all-day K program in all three Branford elementary schools.
The town announced its intention to acquire the Stony Creek Post Office, which was in private hands. The tiny quarter-acre site was eventually purchased; the Post Office will stay at its present location.
Graduation day was safe and fun as awareness campaigns and supervised events were given priority.

July

The Branford Land Trust’s (BLT) osprey tagging program had another successful year, with 20 new chicks banded. The BLT celebrated 40 years of protecting Branford’s open space.
The Short Beach Union church completed renovations on the its building, marking 125 years of Branford history. The church is open for rentals and events.
TD BankNorth was robbed on July 5 at gunpoint by two males who escaped.

August

The town announced it was filing lawsuits against two former insurance companies over the Tabor Drive judgment, as it is still in appeal. In related news, the town also filed a lawsuit against former Town Attorney Ed Marcus for malpractice over the same matter. Marcus and his firm denied any wrongdoing as the case moves forward.
The town said goodbye to a long time employer, and also a long time polluter of the Branford River, when Atlantic Wire announced it was closing its doors after more than 100 years. More than 70 people lost their jobs.
Five white school friends were arrested after faking the assault and kidnapping of a lone black male in broad daylight on West Main Street near Alps Road.

September

The town filed its lawsuit against former Town Attorney Ed Marcus, dredging up ghosts of Granite-gate and other allegations about the Morris administration. Marcus said he would fight the “spurious” charges of the town, including alleged malpractice during the contentious and complicated Tabor Drive lawsuit and judgment.
Rosenthal Gardens, a senior living facility, opened its doors to much acclaim.
The Police Department also upgraded and improved its shooting range on Harrison Street, and the YMCA received critical approval for its Shoreview facility.

October

The town’s proposal to swap the Board of Education (BOE), Canoe Brook, and the Indian Neck School garnered opposition when it was announced. The plan to move the BOE to Canoe Brook and the senior center to Indian Hills, to free up the BOE’s prime location along the Green, did not sit well with many residents.
Shoreline politics heated up, but with two of the town’s three races uncontested, the election gear up was decidedly low-key. Pat Widlitz and Lonnie Reed ran unopposed; Ed Meyer ran against Republican newcomer Ryan Suerth.

November

Election results were for the most part uncontested. Incumbent Ed Meyer defeated Republican challenger Ryan Suerth. Meyer vowed to keep fighting for area taxpayers; Suerth has since been appointed to Gov. Rell’s environmental commission.
Branford High School announced it was in critical need of mentors. Officials say there’s a waiting list for kids who need the influence of another responsible adult in their lives.

December

The year didn’t end without some fireworks. The Board of Selectmen announced a deal had been struck with a developer on the much-debated and contentious Founder’s Village Project. Opponents vowed to fight on saying they feel the town did not live up to promises made to adjoining property owners.
The Islander East pipeline project, another much-debated proposal, was finally defeated by a U.S. Supreme Court decision.
As The Sound put its final issue of 2008 to press, it was announced that its competitors at the Branford Review would be shutting down the presses forever. The Review served Branford for more than 80 years and the announcement, just days before the holiday, also put more than 20 staffers out of work as the Journal-Register Company also closed several other venerable shoreline newspapers.

Sound Police Correspondent Jason J. Marchi contributed to this story.

North Branford Year in Review

2009-01-02T18:36:29Z

By Ben Rayner
Sound Senior Staff Writer

While national elections (and the national economic crisis) dominated TV screens in 2008, folks in North Branford were accomplished quite a bit in their own community.
A resolution was reached on the Schanz Farm development and long-awaited library renovation projects began at the Smith branch; construction is expected to be completed any day, with the Atwater project gearing up this spring. The North Branford Intermediate School project will also near its final stages in 2009.

January

Farmers in town received state incentives to enhance agricultural opportunities. These important grants were all the more critical in light of the economic downturn.
The town chose an interim town manager after long-time and much-respected Town Manager Karl Kilduff left for another position. Michael Paulhus was selected and held the reins until the permanent replacement was selected.

February

The new Big Y opened on Rte 80 in town. Despite more recent rumors that the grocery giant would be closing its doors, company officials said the store is doing well and here to stay.
The town received much-needed funds for school security from Hartford. The grant of more than $53,000 helped schools get reimbursed for surveillance systems and entry buzzers.

March

Debate began over a proposed subdivision on the Schanz farm property. For more than 10 years the owners have attempted to obtain approval for some type of development on the 64-acre site. A 34-unit project was eventually approved by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
The Smith library renovation project picked up steam after a few minor delays. The long awaited project neared completion at the end of the year and Hartford announced a million dollar grant for the Atwater renovation.
The much-loved and historic Northford Market burned down on March 16 due to an electrical malfunction. No word yet on if the business will return.

April

Opposition to the Schanz Farm project began to swell as developers attempted to convince town officials that its proposal would not adversely affect the Farm River.
New Town Manager Richard Branigan was thrust into the hot seat as budget season began in earnest.

May

An arrest was made in the assault of an 82-year-old North Branford woman. DNA evidence conclusively linked 49-year-old, Joseph Von Britton to the attack on his landlord on April 27.
The Totoket Historical Society installed a weathervane atop the Gordon Miller Barn in honor of long-time agricultural ambassador Dudley Harrison.

June

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Wolfe announced his retirement. Although Wolfe presided over several contentious issues, allegations of systemic grade tampering were found to be baseless by an investigation of the State Attorney General’s Office.
The Intermediate School renovations picked up momentum as the school year reached a conclusion. The project is still under budget and on schedule for a 2010 completion.
Graduation day was safe and fun as awareness campaigns and supervised events were given priority.

July

A 30-unit subdivision was given approval by the Inland Wetlands Agency on the 64-Schanz Farm property. Opponents wanted more limits, but the project will move forward.

August

The seventh annual Baked Potato and Roasted Corn Festival was the biggest and best ever, according to officials. The event was fun for all and emphasized local produce and agriculture.
Schanz Farms opponents appealed the IWWA ruling that would allow for a 32-unit subdivision on the 64-acre property.

September

The relocation of Wall Field from Rte 80 to the new town complex at the Swajchuk came into focus as the state Department of Transport announced plans to proceed with the Rte 134 and Rte 80 realignment in 2010.

October

Incumbent Republican State representative Vincent Candelora ran unopposed while Democratic incumbent State Senator Ed Meyer faced Republican newcomer Ryan Suerth.
The Board of Education announced its choice to replace retiring Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Wolfe–Old Saybrook High School Principal Scott Schoonmaker.

November

Election results were for the most part uncontested. Incumbent Ed Meyer defeated Republican challenger Ryan Suerth. Meyer vowed to keep fighting for area taxpayers, Suerth has since been appointed to Gov. Rell’s environmental commission.
The town conceded to citizen opinion and declined a state Department of Transportation offer to upgrade sewers on a stretch of Totoket Road as part of the Snake Hill realignment project.

December

Rumors that Atwater library’s renovation funding might be in jeopardy ran rampant with residents. After numerous phone calls and fact checking, the rumors were put to bed–the Atwater project is funded and scheduled to begin in spring.
As The Sound put its final issue of 2008 to press, it was announced that its competitors at the Branford Review would be shutting down the presses forever. The Review served Branford for more than 80 years and the announcement, just days before the holiday, also put more than 20 staffers out of work as the Journal-Register Company also closed several other venerable shoreline newspapers.

Police Incident Report: Dec. 17 to 23

2009-01-02T18:35:10Z

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.

(SH) Branford

Wednesday, Dec. 17
• A 21-year-old New Haven man was arrested at 3:15 a.m. and charged with criminal mischief in the third degree, violation of a protective order, and assault in the third degree.
• A 19-year-old man of Leetes Island Road was arrested at 10:53 a.m. and charged with affirmative defense to trespass.
• A 21-year-old East Haven man was arrested at 5:48 p.m. and charged with larceny in the sixth degree.

Thursday, Dec. 18
• A 20-year-old Northford man was arrested at 2:04 a.m. and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of less than four ounces of marijuana.
• A 40-year-old North Branford man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 5:09 p.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension and failure to drive a reasonable distance apart following a rear end collision.
• A 53-year-old man of Longfellow Drive was issued a misdemeanor summons at 7:01 a.m. for misuse of plate, operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, failure to have insurance, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Friday, Dec. 19
• A 28-year-old man of a Main Street apartment was arrested at 10:44 p.m. and charged with breach of peace and reckless endangerment in the first degree.
• A 35-year-old man of Maple Street was arrested at 7:50 p.m. and charged with criminal mischief in the third degree.
• A 31-year-old man of Palmerwood Circle was arrested at 10:44 p.m. and charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm, criminal mischief in the third degree, breach of peace, and reckless endangerment in the first degree.
• A 23-year-old man of Main Street was issued a misdemeanor summons at 8:31 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 27-year-old woman of Old Hickory Lane was issued a misdemeanor summons at 12:43 p.m. for failure to have insurance, operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, improper use of marker, and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Saturday, Dec. 20
• A 34-year-old woman of a Briarwood Lane apartment was arrested at 9:15 a.m. and charged with making a false statement in the second degree.

Sunday, Dec. 21
• A 21-year-old North Branford woman was arrested at 2:06 a.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, having weapons in a motor vehicle, and failure to drive in the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway.
• A 69-year-old man of Leetes Island Road was arrested at 7:19 p.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Monday, Dec. 22
• A 28-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man of Matthew Road were arrested at 1:23 p.m. and charged with disorderly conduct under the Domestic Violence Act.
• A 30-year-old Hamden man was arrested on a warrant held by another authority. He was turned over to the custody of that authority.
• A 30-year-old Hamden man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 8:31 p.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

Tuesday, Dec. 23
No arrests were made.

(SH) North Branford

Wednesday, Dec. 17
• A 28-year-old man of Great Hill Road was arrested at 5 p.m. and charged with use and possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a drug factory, possession of greater than four ounces of marijuana, illegal possession of narcotics near a school, and illegal manufacture, distribution, or sale of marijuana. A 26-year-old man of the same address was arrested at 7:30 p.m. and charged with failure to keep a prescription drug in its original container; use and possession of drug paraphernalia; illegal manufacture, distribution, or sale of marijuana; operating a drug factory; illegal manufacture, distribution, or sale of prescription drugs; possession of narcotics; possession of greater than four ounces of marijuana; and illegal possession near a school. The drug factory related arrests occurred after this same man was arrested at 1:20 p.m. the same day, and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and traveling too fast for conditions.
• An 18-year-old woman of Ric Court was issued a written warning at 3:25 p.m. for passing a standing school bus. Had she received a citation for this violation she could have been fined $460 for a first offense.

Thursday, Dec. 18
No arrests were made.
• A 27-year-old Branford woman was issued a misdemeanor summons at 12:35 a.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension. She was operating a green 1992 ford Explorer.

Friday, Dec. 19 to Saturday, Dec. 20
No arrests were made.

Sunday, Dec. 21
No arrests were made.
• A 49-year-old Guilford man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 8:15 p.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, and failure to obey a control signal. He was operating a tan 1998 Toyota Corolla.

Monday, Dec. 22
• A 26-year-old Branford man was arrested at 7:30 a.m. and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, possession of narcotics, and failure to drive in the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway. While in custody, he was arrested again at 7:42 a.m. on an outstanding warrant charging him with failure to appear in the first degree.

Tuesday, Dec. 23
No arrests were made.
• A 25-year-old New Haven man was issued a misdemeanor summons at 6:59 p.m. for operating a motor vehicle while under license suspension. He was operating a green 2001 Chevrolet.

From Dec. 17 to 23, North Branford police also issued six citations to motorists for operating an unregistered motor vehicle, two citations for failure to obey a control signal, two citations for using a hand-held cell phone while driving, and two citations for traveling too fact for conditions. One citation was issued for each of the following: failure to maintain the proper lane of a multiple-lane highway, operating a motor vehicle without a license, passing in a no passing zone, and failure to grant right of way to oncoming traffic when making a left turn.

Correspondent Jason J. Marchi compiles the Police Incident Report.

Boys’ Hockey and Basketball Take Home Titles

2008-12-30T19:07:16Z

By Jennifer Small, Sound Sports Editor:

Indoor Track

   In its second year of existence, the indoor track program almost doubled its numbers, growing to 31 athletes in the 2007-2008 season, which allowed the T-Birds to enter more events as a team.

   In an 11-team field, the girls’ team placed eighth with 25 points and the boys’ team took 10th with 21 points. Seniors Bill Kottage and Chris Saroka and junior Alyssa Selmquist captained the team with seniors Gus Boatman, Jim Gray, Cait Cordner, and Katie Defrank contributing as well. Kottage earned All-Shoreline honors in the shot put, while Kellie Walker was named All-Shoreline in the 3,200.

Boys’ Basketball

   The North Branford boys’ basketball team turned the program around in 2007-2008 under first-year coach Cliff Yerkes. While North Branford ended the season with a winning record—and the Shoreline Conference title—things didn’t start so smoothly as the T-Birds opened with a six-game losing streak.

   The T-Birds certainly started to roll as they went on an eight-game winning streak to close out the season with an 11-9 record. They avenged early season losses to Coginchaug and East Hampton, claiming a share of the Shoreline Conference title with Coginchaug with 11-6 Shoreline records.

   North Branford reached a number of other goals along the way, including qualifying for both the Shoreline Tournament and Class M State Tournament, in which the 19th-seeded T-Birds topped No. 14 Kaynor Tech in the opening round before falling 71-69 in overtime to three-seed Windham in the second round. North Branford led by 10 with three minutes to play, but Kaynor Tech pulled out the game in overtime.

   Jesse Puzycki led the team as a senior captain and in his performance on the court. He led the team in scoring (averaging 11 points per game), free-throw shooting (percentage and total), defensive deflections, and assists, while also hitting 36 threes on the season. He earned Second Team All-Shoreline honors for his efforts.

   Rounding out the senior class was PJ Platner and Paul Wentworth. Other contributors were Ricky Angiollo (second-leading scorer), Justin McGinley, Alex Robertson, and Joe Lasko.

Ice Hockey

   The North Branford hockey team completed a successful season in the quarterfinals of the Division II state tournament following the program’s first-ever Northern Hockey Conference championship.

   The T-Birds had to work throughout the season and put together an 11-8-1 regular-season record capped by winning six of its final seven regular-season games. After winning the NHC, the sixth-ranked T-Birds topped No. 11 Suffield 2-1 in the first round of the Division II State Tournament before falling 6-5 in overtime to three-seed Sheehan.

   Leading the charge was captain Corey Podbielski (First Team All-NHC) along with fellow seniors Pat Bevins (goaltender who started all 24 games this season, First Team All-NHC), Matt Iannucci (48 season points to surpass the 100-point career mark, CHSCA First Team All-State and First Team All-NHC), David Corvi (47 points, Second Team All-NHC), and Lou Fonda (forward).

   Backup goaltender Danny Coe gained valuable experience and Jimmy Esposito, Joe Prunier, and Mike Trischitti were solid on defense.

Girls’ Basketball

   North Branford qualified for both the Shoreline and Class M State Tournaments, but the T-Birds fell in the first round of each marking the first time since 1996 that they lost in the opening round of states, finishing with a 9-13 overall record.

   Alicia Zelanakas was the team’s captain, who often led the team in rebounding and led the scoring in eight games. She scored a season-high of 31 points on Senior Night, averaged more than 14 points and six rebounds a game, and was selected to play in the CT Coaches All-Star game. She was also named First Team All-Shoreline. She and Sam Scavo were named co-MVPs. Scavo surpassed the 1,000-point mark as a junior, averaging 18 points per game.

   The Desire and Dedication Award went to Alisha Jasudowich, Taylor Merola, and Morgan Onofrio (Honorable Mention All-Shoreline), while Kelsey Platner earned Most Improve.
Team Spirit: junior CC Horner won the Team Spirit Award, Maggie Sullivan took home the Hustle Award, and freshman Tara Ricci was Rookie of the Year.

Boys’ Swimming

-Chris Piccirillo

   North Haven/North Branford went 5-8 overall and 4-8 in the SCC in Matt Johnson’s first season as head coach, winning five straight matches down the stretch to give the team momentum heading into the postseason. Then in the postseason, the team placed eighth at the SCC Championship and 11th at the Class LL Championship, thus marking improvements from the previous season.

   Senior captain and North Haven resident Kevin McDonald made All-SCC by virtue of placing third in the 50 freestyle (22.89) and 100 backstroke (56.21) at the SCC Championship. He then finished second at the Class LL Championship in the backstroke (54.18) and third in the 50 freestyle (54.18) to earn All-State honors in both events.

   Fellow senior captain, James Parfitt, a North Branford resident, was named the team’s MVP for his leadership efforts and also for finishing ninth in the 50 freestyle (23.46) at the SCC Championship and 10th in the 100 freestyle (53.03) at the Class LL Championship.

   North Branford junior Lucien Rizzo was named Most Improved and senior Kevin Kortsep received the Sportsmanship Award. The team’s other senior captains were North Branford residents Jim Bianchi and Kim Cappetta and the other senior was North Haven’s Matt Buono.