The Register Citizen's Local Business Blog

Haight-Brown Vineyard to host ASQ meeting

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 23:32:00 +0000

The monthly meeting of the Naugatuck Valley Section of the American Society for Quality (ASQ) will feature a tour of the Haight-Brown Vineyard in Litchfield on Wednesday, Oct. 8. The tour includes a full 10-flight wine tasting followed by dinner.

The tour and tasting begins at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. For reservations or more information, click here or contact Janice Larner at (203) 271-8235. Both ASQC members and non-members are welcomed to attend. Reservations for this event are required by Sept. 19.

MacKinnon Realty joins ERA property center

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 16:47:00 +0000

TORRINGTON – July 1—Local real estate firm, MacKinnon Realty of Thomaston, has announced that it has merged with market leader ERA Property Center, Inc. Effective July 1st, Christianne MacKinnon and Julie Voigt began conducting business out of ERA Property Center’s Thomaston office and will continue to serve their customers from that location.

“We are extremely excited to join ERA Property Center,” said Chris MacKinnon. “As agents with ERA, we will continue to provide our clients with the personal dedication they’ve come to expect from us, but will also be able to supply them with some of the best products and services the industry has to offer.”

Chris MacKinnon was licensed to practice real estate in 1997 and learned the business with various local firms until obtaining her Broker’s license in 2003 when she opened MacKinnon Realty. She was joined by her daughter, Julie Voigt, in 2004 and they operated the business together until its merger with ERA Property Center.

ERA Property Center, Inc. and its associates have served Litchfield County for over 25 years. They have offices in Torrington Thomaston, and Watertown and are available to consumers on the internet at http://www.erapropertycenter.com/.

ERA Franchise Systems LLC is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. The ERA network includes more than 38,000 brokers and sales associates and approximately 3,000 offices throughout the United States and 47 other countries and territories. Each office is independently owned and operated except offices owned and operated by NRT LLC. ERA Franchise Systems LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services. ERA Franchise Systems LLC information is available at ERA.com.

Local Realtors receive prestigious award

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:26:00 +0000

TORRINGTON - Bee Bothroyd, Deanne Raymond, Sharon Gilson of Realty Executives Results in Torrington were recently presented with the First Half 2008 Top Producers award by Realty Executives Results.
"It is a great feeling to know that I am with a company that really appreciates the dedication I put into my work here at Realty Executives Results," Bothroyd said. "I thank the entire Realty Executives team for their support and encouragement. I am thrilled and honored to receive this notable award."
This award is for the Top Producing Sales People of the First Half of 2008
Sales associates, also known as "Executives," at Realty Executives average approximately 13 years of real estate experience, nearly twice the national average. They are industry leaders in production experience and professional designations, typically out producing traditional sales associates three to one, according to Rich Rector, president and CEO of Realty Executives International.
"We are proud to honor Bee, Deanne and Sharon with this award because it exemplifies a commitment to exceptional customer service and outstanding sales performance," Rector said.
For more information about Realty Executives Results, please contact Dan Grammatica, Broker/Owner at 860-482-5566.
About Realty Executives International
Realty Executives International, a system of producing Top Sales Executives, has been perfecting its business model for more than 42 years and is one of the fastest-growing real estate franchises in North America. The Phoenix-based, privately held company has more than 800 franchises in ten countries, including offices in the United States, Canada, South Africa, Mexico, Australia, Israel, Costa Rica, France, Greece and Indonesia. Publications like Entrepreneur, Success and Inc. magazines have all ranked Realty Executives International, Inc as a leader based on franchise growth, management stability and financial soundness. For additional company information, call 1-800-252-3366, or visit www.realtyexecutives.com.

Torrington Stop & Shop raises over $12,000 for cancer research

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:56:00 +0000

TORRINGTON-One month after launching The Triple Winner Game, Stop & Shop's annual campaign to raise funds for research and treatment of pediatric cancer at the Stop & Shop Family Pediatric Brain Tumor Clinic at Dana-Faber Cancer Institute, the Torrington Stop & Shop store announced it has already raised $12,093 to support the effort.

The money raised in Torrington contributes to the $1.4 million the chain has already collected in this year's campaign.

Realty awards night held

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:32:00 +0000

LITCHFIELD - Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc. held its annual "Awards Night" meeting on Monday, May 12, 2008 at Cornucopia Banquet Hall. The hors d’oeuvres and wine were sponsored by Litchfield Bancorp.
The following were presented at the meeting: REALTOR® of the Year 2008, 2008 LCBR Scholarship Grant and the Unsung Hero Award.
Each year the Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc. selects one REALTOR® as REALTOR® of the Year based on selected criteria. The selected member represents the highest qualities and the outstanding service REALTORS® offer their local, state and national Board and their civic duty, and this year’s recipient was Ted Murphy of E J Murphy Realty in Litchfield.
Ted Murphy has been a REALTOR® member and involved in the real estate industry for almost 30 years. He is an active member of Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc. and has served on their Board as President, President-Elect and a Director and several of their committees including, Budget, MLS, Nominating, Ad Hoc Bank Account Policy and RPAC. On the state level, he has served on the work group that helped form the Statewide MLS we have today and as a State Director for the past four years. Ted has also earned the following designations: GRI I, GRI II and GRI III.
Ted is very involved in his community. He is actively involved with the Litchfield/Morris Rotary Club. He is a strong sponsor and has helped organize the Litchfield Hills Children’s Race since 1999. He helped start and was president 3 times of the Litchfield Rowing club. He is a member of the Greenway Committee under the Plan of Conservation & Development to plan the developments of walking paths around Litchfield. He is a member of the Litchfield Business Association. He has been a director of the Litchfield/Wamogo Alumni Basketball Game that benefits scholarships for both schools since 2003.
Ted Murphy
The Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc. distributes a scholarship award every year to a qualified applicant. The Board chooses the recipient based on selected criteria and issues the recipient a Scholarship Award and a check for a predetermined amount, and this year’s recipient was Stephanie Kearns, daughter of Heidi Kearns a REALTOR® with E J Murphy Realty in Litchfield.
Stephanie is currently enrolled as a senior in Housatonic Valley Regional High School and will be the Valedictorian of her class. She will attend Merrimack College located in North Andover Massachusetts in the fall. Thanks to the generosity of our members Stephanie was awarded a $2,640 scholarship.
This year’s Awards Night included the presentation of the "Unsung Hero Award" to Ziggy Keparutis of Bayberry Realty for his unselfish dedication and commitment to Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc. and the REALTOR® organization.
Ziggy currently serves on the Litchfield County Board of Directors and has been Chairman of the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) Committee from 1999 to the present.
REALTORS® who have celebrated their 20th and 25th Anniversary as members of the Board were recognized and congratulated by Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc. The members received their prestigious 20 or 25 year REALTOR® pin symbolizing their long term commitment to upholding the Professional standards set forth by the REALTOR® organization.
The following members received their 20 year REALTOR® pin: Patricia Keparutis of Bayberry Realty; Jack Potter of Cohen Agency; Ellie Peterson of Coldwell Banker Realty 2000 and Mary Clancey of Mary Clancey, Broker.
The following members received their 25 year REALTOR® pin: Judith Hitchiner of Hitchiner Associates; Debbie Videtto of Prudential Premier Homes; William Downes of Gooseboro Realty; Judith Hammer of Gooseboro Realty and Annesa Borla of Borla & Associates, LLC Real Estate.
New REALTOR® members were recognized and congratulated on their decision to join Litchfield County Board of REALTORS®, Inc.

Realty awards night held

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:27:00 +0000

Realty awards night held

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:27:00 +0000

Better Barns opens new sales office to accommodate expansion.

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:26:00 +0000

BETHLEHEM - Better Barns has recently opened a new 800 sq. ft. office at 22 East Street (Rt. 132), in Bethlehem. The company operates a barn and shed woodworking and manufacturing facility in Bethlehem with an outdoor model center that displays full size barns and sheds at 69 East Street. "We needed a separate office to meet people when they visit. In the past we would meet at the model center or one of our garden center locations. The new office provides a comfortable environment to sit, have a coffee and discuss designs and options," said Bill Hurley, Better Barns owner. The new sales office is located in the Bethlehem Square next to Little Town Deli and is only a few hundred feet away from its model display center and wood shop facility. "It’s a great area to visit and the town has just put in new sidewalks so people can walk by the pond and experience the great atmosphere of a tradition small, country town," said Mr. Hurley. He also noted that the new office was needed due to the expansion taking place in their manufacturing facility. The company builds custom barns and sheds throughout New England and areas in New York. Their barns and sheds are custom built on-site from the ground up. For more information contact Bill Hurley at 203-405-1555 or visit their site: www.BarnsBuilt.com

Goshen vineyard wins medals at International Eastern Wine Competition

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:30:00 +0000

GOSHEN - Sunset Meadow Vineyards, a family-owned and operated Litchfield County vineyard and winery, was awarded silver and bronze medals in the 2008 International Eastern Wine Competition.

One of the oldest and largest competitions in the United States, the International Eastern Wine Competition is held each May in the Finger Lakes region of New York, topping over 2,100 entries in recent years with wines from 16 countries and 34 states. The IEWC has earned a well-justified reputation for the quality of its organization, judgments and awards. Wines in any given flight may be entered from around the world. Judges are wine-knowledgeable professionals, media specialists, and winemakers who represent major east coast markets from Miami to Toronto. Bronze medals require a unanimous panel vote for bronze, so any winning medals in the IEWC are worthy of merit.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards (SMV), which is now celebrating its grand opening, was awarded a silver medal and two bronze medals in this event. SMV’s 2007 Sunset Blush won the silver medal in the Hybrid Blush/Blanc de Noir category. SMV’s 2007 Cayuga White received a bronze medal in the Cayuga category and a bronze medal for their 2007 Vidal Blanc in the Vidal Blanc category.

“We’re pleased and honored to be recognized among such an established filed of entries,” said George Motel, vineyard owner and winemaker at Sunset Meadow Vineyards. “This achievement is a compliment to our hard working family and staff.”

Sunset Meadow Vineyards is located atop the Litchfield Hills, overlooking the picturesque sunsets and extravagant scenery of the beautiful Western Connecticut highlands.

All of Sunset Meadow Vineyards vines are hand pruned and harvested, and are spread over 40 acres of sloping westerly exposed fields, creating an ideal setting for prime sunlight and continuous airflow. This allows SMV to maintain and operate the vineyards using sustainable farming methods, minimizing the use of systemic chemicals and producing wines that are pure, full bodies and natural.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards is located at 599 Old Middle Street, Route 63, Goshen, Conn. 06756. The tasting room is open on Fridays from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Vineyard and winemaking facility tours are available.

Salisbury Bank re-opens branch; makes donation

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:21:00 +0000

Lakeville -- Salisbury Bank held its official ribbon-cutting ceremony June 2 to celebrate the re-opening of its renovated branch office at 18 Main Street, Salisbury, Connecticut.

In attendance from Salisbury Bank were John F. Perotti, chairman and CEO; Rick Cantele, president and COO; Alice Kent, branch manager; and Amy Raymond, vice president mortgage originations. Also joining the celebration were Salisbury First Selectman Curtis Rand; Selectman Robert Riva; Kim Fiertz and Mary Harvey, co-presidents of Salisbury Family Services; and Patrice McGrath, Salisbury Family Services director.

Instead of the traditional red ribbon for the ceremony, Salisbury Bank used ribbon fashioned from $20 bills. Once the ribbon was cut, Alice Kent donated the money to Salisbury Family Services on behalf of the Bank.

“Salisbury Family Services is honored to accept this donation from Salisbury Bank, which will help us in our mission to help those people in our community by fostering the development of a healthy life style, and providing financial aid for needy individuals and families,” stated Mary Harvey and Kim Fiertz, co-presidents of Salisbury Family Services.

Salisbury Family Services was founded in 1930 to serve all of the communities of Salisbury including Salisbury, Lakeville, Amesville, Lime Rock, and Taconic. The organization provides a social worker for direct case management for individuals and families, and provision is made for crisis intervention, home visits, and information and referral to various state and local service organizations. In addition to day-to-day assistance, SFS offers transportation assistance, housing and fuel assistance, day care and related programs, educational assistance, summertime camp scholarships, and the distribution of holiday food and gifts.

Rick Cantele, Salisbury Bank President and COO commented, “We are very pleased to support Salisbury Family Services and the good work they do for our neighbors in need.”
Salisbury First Selectman, Curtis Rand commented, “We are very happy to see the branch reopened today. It looks great. Many of our local residents appreciate the fact that they can walk to the bank, which is located right in the center of town. I offer my sincere congratulations to Salisbury Bank on a wonderful renovation.”

Salisbury Bank has taken its concept of customer enrichment to a new level, by completely redesigning the interior of its Salisbury branch to provide an environment of comfort and professionalism for its personal, mortgage and business banking customers.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John F. Perotti commented, "We are very excited about this design, which is a new concept in branch banking. Instead of the all-too-common experience of rushing in and out as quickly as possible, we are creating a bright, warm and welcoming atmosphere that will allow customers to slow down and relax for a few minutes.”

Beyond the new furniture and layout, innovations include modern, energy-efficient lighting and a colorful, fresh palette of paint and carpeting. The new design is also carefully planned to improve the ability of the Salisbury staff to provide the superior service the community has come to expect from the bank. In addition, Mortgage Advisor Mona Staaf-Hoffman‘s office is now connected to the branch so customers will have easy access to all of the Bank’s services in one place.

The office also features a 24-hour ATM and night depository. The branch offers the bank’s full-line of retail and business deposit, loan and convenience services. Branch hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

The Home Depot donates 500 smoke detectors

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Fri, 30 May 2008 13:39:00 +0000

NORTHWEST CORNER - As a result of a gift from The Home Depot, 500 free smoke detectors are available to area residents, Fire Marshal Bill Baldwin said.
"It’s important," Baldwin said, about having a smoke detector in the home. "A lot of people don’t have them."
To obtain a free smoke detector, residents in Barkhamsted, Goshen, Harwinton and New Hartford must contact their first selectman’s office, Baldwin said.
Residents in Winsted who wish to obtain a detector must contact the fire marshal’s office, Baldwin said.
Anyone with questions may contact Bill Baldwin at 860-601-8940.

Local dressbarns offer Eco-Relief

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Fri, 30 May 2008 13:12:00 +0000

TORRINGTON - A new initiative, prompted by dressbarn inc., has local women making fashion statements as well as helping the environment, all while shopping at the local retail stores in the Torrington area.
"Bring Your Own Bag," a new intiative by dressbarn and maurices stores, has just been announced where sytlish, reusable bags are now available for customers to purchase at the company's retail store locations. In an added effort, $1 from the sale of each bag will be donated to the Arbor Day Foundation to plant one tree in America's national forests.
"With this initiative, we can plant more trees in our nation's forests while helping the environment and enhancing the beauty of nature," said Vivian Behrens, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for dressbarn inc.

Torrington High School student receives Best Buy scholarship

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Tue, 20 May 2008 12:40:00 +0000

A Best Buy scholarship has been awarded to Alexander Welford, a member of the class of 2008 at Torrington High School. Alexander is the son of Vilma Mathiesen and Stephen Welford. He plans to attend the University of Hartford this fall.

The scholarship is part of Best Buy's commitment to provide opportunities for teens to succeed, which has included $2.75 million in scholarships nationwide. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, community involvement and work experience. They must be entering an accredited university, college or technical school in the fall.

Anthem warns Rell not to sign bill

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Tue, 20 May 2008 12:06:00 +0000

HARTFORD (AP) — Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield says it’s poised to raise health insurance rates for state employees because of a bill that opens the program up to nonprofit agencies, municipalities and some small businesses.
Anthem says its rates will increase 4 percent as of July 1 — a $24 million cost for the state. Rates already negotiated for 2009 and 2010 also would change, says Anthem President David Fusco.
Gov. M. Jodi Rell says the bill has not yet reached her desk, andshe’s concerned about the budget implications.
Proponents say the legislation will provide financial relief to cities and towns, and ultimately help local taxpayers.
Anthem and ConnectiCare, another insurer that covers state employees, are urging Rell to veto the bill.

Charlotte Hungerford honors Nurse of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:00:00 +0000

The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington honored Brenda Sherman as the Hospital’s 2008 Nurse of the Year, in an awards breakfast held May 7.
Sherman has worked at the hospital for more than 30 years and won the award from a field of about 25 candidates.
She works in the Behavioral Health Department with patients dealing with mental health and drug abuse issues.

Bob's "Have a heart day" to help animals

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Fri, 16 May 2008 16:30:00 +0000

Bob's Discount Furniture is joining with humane societies, animal shelters and rescue centers on "Have A Heart Day" Saturday, May 17, 2008, in an effort to encourage donations of pet bedding, treats, new or gently used toys and new transportation crates for needy dogs and cats. The event will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"This is one of our most favorite family events each year as kids and parents join us to help our furry friends. All of our Bob's Discount Furniture locations will be accepting pet donations. We'll also be helping to find some loving homes for some of these orphan kittens and puppies," said Cathy Poulin, public relations director, who can be seen with Bob in television commercials.

"I look forward to personally greeting all of the families visiting the Bob's Discount Furniture located at 15 Industrial Park Road in Niantic, Connecticut."

There will be a variety of entertainment features, food and prize giveaways at all locations.

"Making a donation, individuals 18 years and older will be able to register for the eight-day Royal Caribbean Cruise Grand Prize valued at over $3,500. These loving puppies and kittens really become part of the family very quickly. So, I look forward to all families helping us in our effort on this special day," added Poulin.

The following Bob's Discount Furniture locations will host the following organizations: Bridgeport, CT - Pups Without Partners; Brookfield, CT - Pups Without Partners/Greyhound Rescue and Rehabilitation; Manchester, CT - Bandits Place/We Adopt Greyhounds; Stamford, CT - Connecticut Humane Society/Greyhound Rescue and Rehabilitation; Newington, CT - Connecticut Humane Society; Southington, CT- Pups Without Partners.

Board recognizes realtor of the year, scholarship recipient

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Wed, 14 May 2008 11:36:00 +0000

Photos by MIC NICOSIA/Register Citizen
Ted Murphy of EJ Murphy Realty, rear, was recognized as the 2008 Realtor of the Year during the annual Litchfield County Board of Realtors’ awards dinner Monday at the Cornucopia in Torrington. Joining Murphy are his fellow nominees, from left, Joanne Donne of The Washington Agency, Andrea Becker-Abbott of Fair Choice Realty, Linda Hull of Coldwell Banker Realty 2000 and Dan Grammatica of Realty Executives Results.

Joined by her mom Heidi Kearns of EJ Murphy Realty, Stephanie Kearns was presented with $2,640 in scholarship money during the Litchfield County Board of Realtors’ annual awards dinner Monday night at the Cornucopia in Torrington. Stephanie will graduate this spring as valedictorian of her class at Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village. She will attend Merrimack College in North Adams, Mass., this fall, where she intends to pursue a degree in civil engineering. Purchase glossy prints of these photos and more at www.registercitizen.com

Southington store featured on HGTV

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:44:00 +0000

Apple Valley Woodworks, based in Southington, was recently selected for an HGTV segment. Apple Valley Woodworks offers unique kitchens through its Connecticut kitchen dealers, as well as across the country.

Apple Valley Woodworks recently exhibited at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Chicago, Illinois. During the trade show, HGTV hosts Monica Pedersen and Eric Stromer toured the show and selected Apple Valley Woodworks to be one of the feature segments, focusing on the most innovative, and “green” kitchen and bath products available today.

“We are pleased to draw attention not only to our bamboo cabinetry options, but to reinforce that many of our innovative Kitchen Dealers are based right here in Connecticut.” said Lou Lestorti, Apple Valley Woodworks’ President.

Apple Valley Woodworks bamboo kitchen display will be featured on HGTV’s “Kitchens and Baths 2008,” airing through May 2008.

“Caramelized Bamboo exudes a rich beauty in its aesthetic appeal. What’s more, it’s an excellent choice for those who seek a unique material with renewable characteristics,” said Stephanie M. Martin, CKD, Apple Valley director of design.

Bamboo is actually a grass and not a wood, and is one of the fastest growing and most environmentally friendly plants in the world, growing to maturity in just a few short years. Hardwood can take as long as 50 years to mature, compared to Bamboo’s 5 or 6. This means that Bamboo is significantly more quickly and easily renewable. Dealers for Apple Valley Woodworking products are available in Waterbury and Monroe.
For more information contact Stephanie Martin at 860-620-9330.

Otis elevator chief elevated at UTC

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:39:00 +0000

HARTFORD (AP) — The president of United Technologies Corp.’s elevator subsidiary, Otis, has been named president of the parent company’s commercial businesses.
Ari Bousbib will oversee Otis, Carrier heating and ventilating, UTC Fire and Security and UTC Power, which produces fuel cells. Bousbib, 47, also will oversee United Technologies international operations, which has offices in Beijing, Brussels, Moscow, Seoul and Singapore.
Didier Michaud, 50, president of Otis’ British and central Europe operations, will take over as head of the elevator manufacturer.
United Technologies companies also include jet engine maker Pratt & Whitney and aerospace manufacturer Hamilton Sundstrand.
The leadership changes were announced nearly five weeks after Louis Chenevert was elected UTC’s chief executive officer.

Women's forum to include familiar CT faces

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:54:00 +0000

TORRINGTON – The 2008 WOW! Women of the World Forum returns to Torrington this fall with a slate of prominent Connecticut women to compliment the forum’s theme, “Celebrating Connecticut Women.” This popular, full-day professional development opportunity for women will be held on Friday, September 26, 2008, at The Warner Theatre and its new Carole & Ray Neag Performing Arts Center.

Well-known radio and television personality, Diane Smith, will serve as the event’s keynote speaker. Smith is a popular co-host of the top rated Morning Show on WTIC-AM News Talk 1080 with Ray Dunaway. An Emmy award-winning TV journalist, Diane Smith produces programs for Connecticut Public TV, based on her popular series “Positively Connecticut”. She has published a book by the same name. For more than sixteen years Diane was a news anchor and reporter at WTNH TV in New Haven. She was awarded the Connecticut Tourism Industry's Media Award for "showing Connecticut to the rest of the world in a positive light."

The forum will also feature a morning address by Dr. Joyce Saltman, Ed.D., a Professor of Special Education, a therapist with a private practice and a dynamic speaker. Her innovative teaching style has led to the development of a graduate course on “The Enhancement of Learning Through Humor.” In her previous life, Joyce appeared as a stand-up comic for dozens of organizations and clubs including Dangerfield’s and Good Times in New York City.

Janet Peckinpaugh will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the day. As a 30-year veteran of television and radio news, Janet Peckinpaugh has been a well-known journalist in Connecticut for many years. Janet was most recently news anchor for WVIT television and has also reported and anchored for the ABC and CBS affiliates in Connecticut. Now retired from television news, she operates Peckinpaugh Digital Media, a full-service multimedia company. Janet is currently producing a pilot television program called 180 Degrees with Janet Peckinpaugh.

Another highlight of the fourth annual WOW! Forum will be a leadership panel featuring Hon. Anne C. Dranginis (ret.), Principal, Rome McGuigan P.C., Ellen Griesedieck, artist and president, American Mural Project, Patricia Mayfield, Commissioner of Labor, State of Connecticut and Sara Laschever, author of ‘Women Don’t Ask’ and ‘Ask For It’. This group will discuss their path to the top of their professions.

The event includes a continental breakfast, lunch at Bogey’s Restaurant at the Yankee Pedlar Inn, breakout seminars, closing reception and an expanded WOW! Bookstore & Boutique. Ticket prices are $99 through July 15, 2008, and $125 thereafter. More details are available online at www.wowforum.org. The WOW! Forum is a program of the Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce. Please call the Chamber of Commerce at 860-482-6586 for more information.

Doc's reopened at Kent Village Barn Shops

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:14:00 +0000

KENT – Doc’s Trattoria and Pizzeria is opened a new restaurant on April 24, that offers outdoor and fireside dining, two private dining rooms, a full bar, take-out window and the same signature southern Italian food that attracted a loyal following at its former location on Lake Waramaug.

Located in the Kent Village Barn Shops just off Main Street, the spacious new restaurant is housed in an 1840s Federal-style building with an awning-covered terrace that overlooks a courtyard and massive maple tree that dates back to the 1700s. The trattoria offers 80 seats inside and 30 seats on the patio and will be open daily for both lunch and dinner.

With owner/executive chef Roberto Pizzo and head chef Edinson Ruilova remaining at the helm, the restaurant will serve the same Italian fare for which it has become known. Dishes like Zuppa di Pesce and Penne Vessuviana place an emphasis on fresh seafood, vegetables and pastas. The restaurant also offers some northern Italian dishes such as Chicken Milanese and Bolognese, as well as weekly specials that change with the seasons. A new addition will be a dedicated lunch menu, featuring lighter options and smaller portions.

Doc’s will also continue to offer its thin-crust pizza with an assortment of unusual toppings, but the pizzas will now be fired in a brick oven. Rounding out the menu are luscious homemade desserts and a full-service bar with an extensive selection of wine.

With exposed brick and taupe-colored walls, hardwood floors, and French doors and large windows to let in light, the newly renovated interior features a fireplace, curved mahogany bar topped with black granite and a dedicated espresso bar. Two different rooms can be rented for private parties: one accommodates up to 15 people; the other up to 40.

White butcher paper-covered tables and black linen napkins make the restaurant comfortable for families, as well as upscale patrons. Doc’s, which opened in a tiny clapboard building in New Preston, was acquired by Roberto and Paulette Pizzo in 1999. With only 11 tables, the intimate restaurant was beloved by locals and luminaries alike. Joan Rivers, Conan O’Brien, Milos Forman and Arthur Miller were among those who dined there. That location served its last meal on April 13.

Located at 9 Maple Street with parking available in the Kent Village Barn Shops lots off Old Barn Road, Doc’s will be open seven days a week: Monday through Thursday from noon until the last seating at 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from noon until the last seating at 9:30 p.m.; Sunday from 12:30 to 8:30 p.m. For reservations and information, call (860) 927-3810. For more details, visit www.kentvillagebarns.com

Dept. of Consumer Protection plans shredding events

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Wed, 07 May 2008 12:07:00 +0000

HARTFORD, May 6 – Although the skies continually threatened rain, hundreds of state residents turned out on Friday in Meriden and on Saturday at six locations statewide, with their boxes, bundles and bags of personal documents to be shredded at a free event sponsored by the Department of Consumer protection and Shred-it..

“More than nine tons of paper containing personal information was destroyed at this event, saving hundreds of individuals from the potential headache and heartache of finding themselves victim to identity thieves,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr. said today. “Visitors to the shredding sites were amazed at how quickly and easily years’ worth of paper was safely shredded, and most commented on their relief that the burden had been lifted.”

Farrell said the shredded paper (91 trees worth) will be recycled into paper towels, so natural resources are preserved.

“Overall, the experience was so positive that we intend to collaborate with Shred-It on another widespread shredding event on Saturday, September 13th, to provide this service to anyone who may have missed us this time around,” Farrell said. “Exact locations will be posted in the next few weeks on our website at www.ct.gov/dcp.”

NCCC gets grants to introduce health care careers

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Tue, 06 May 2008 12:58:00 +0000

WINSTED — As a result of a State Department of Higher Education’s Health and Education Initiative, Northwestern Connecticut Community College is one of three Connecticut Community Colleges that has been awarded a grant, funded through the Connecticut Office of Workforce Competitiveness to support a new program this summer. Health Careers: Explorations and Preparation Workshop will introduce students to various health care career opportunities, enhance academic skills and provide a health occupation shadowing experience, according to a statement released from the college. This program is targeted for current high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who are interested in health care fields.
The program, which is free of charge, will run from July 7 to July 31 on Mondays thru Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Classes will not he held on Fridays.
Some of the activities students will experience during this 4-week workshop include, Metrics in Medicine, Medical Terminology/Body Systems, Mathematics in measuring body mass, Cultural Diversity Issues in Health Care, Interpersonal & Professional Communication Skills and Dosage calculations; mathematics in documentation. Those who successfully complete the workshop will have completed HLT 103 – Investigation in Health Careers and will earn three college credits.
High School students, who are interested in attending this selective Northwestern Connecticut Community College Health Careers Summer Program, should download an application from the college’s Web site at www.nwcc.commnet.edu. The deadline for submitting applications is May 16.
For more information on Health Careers: Explorations and Preparation Workshop, contact Barbara Berger at 738-6308 or bberger@nwcc.commnet.edu.

Children's Bins sold at Lowes recalled for lead

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:27:00 +0000

HARTFORD – Department of Consumer Protection Product Safety Inspectors are conducting recall effectiveness checks in response to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s voluntary recall of Children’s Storage Bins, due to excessive levels of lead. This product was manufactured in Taiwan by Magus Industry Co. Ltd., and imported by L G Sourcing, Inc., of North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. The Children’s Storage Bins were sold nationwide at Lowe’s retail outlets for approximately $6.00, from March 2007 through February 2008. The pastel green or pink bins are wood with scalloped edges. No other colors are involved in this recall. The recalled Item Numbers are as follows: #226782 (pastel green) or #226781 (pink). The Item Numbers are located on the bottom of the storage bin. Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr., recommends consumers check their children’s belongings for this product and if found, immediately remove from their possession and return the storage bin to any Lowe’s store for a full refund. Although no injuries/incidents have been reported, the potential for lead exposure is high. For additional information, please contact L G Sourcing any time, toll free (866) 493-6563 or visit website at http://www.lowes.com/.

Otters opens new outdoor dining area

noreply@blogger.com (Register Citizen Staff) — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:07:00 +0000

By KAITLIN McCALLUM
TORRINGTON — Just in time for warm weather, the first rooftop dining patio has opened up in Torrington.
Mayor Ryan Bingham cut the ribbon on the 1,600 square-foot patio on Otters Pub at 131 Water St. Thursday, joined by Otters co-owners Scott Kleczkowski and Bonnie McLoud, their eight-month-old daughter, Emma, and the building’s owner, Dave Kleczkowski.
“We do a ton of nighttime business and we really want to expand to more lunchtime and happy hour,” Scott Kleczkowski said.
The patio, which is enclosed with an intricate steel fence, is scattered with umbrella tables and lounge furniture.
He hopes the open-air patio will encourage people to come in and try out the pub’s new and expanded menu. The menu features “otterizers” which include fried pickles and home-made spinach and artichoke dip, flatbread sandwiches, homemade dressings and hamburgers.
The atmosphere is relaxed, Kleczkowski said, with a little bit of everybody coming in to have a good time.
The patio was designed by New Concepts in Winsted with custom floors and fences.
“This is the first rooftop dining in the downtown area,” the mayor said, admiring the space. “It’s incredible, a huge boost for downtown.”
With the birth of their daughter, and construction underway on the patio, the past year has been very busy for the couple.
“If you could name something that could have gone wrong, it did,” Kleczkowski said.
The process took a year and a half because of weather and construction delays, he said.
But with the construction behind them and a beautiful new rooftop space now open for business, McLoud said they are excited to have it done.
“Two years ago, it was in our thoughts and then it was in the process. It’s nice to have it finally done,” she said.
Otter Pub is open from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekdays and until 2 a.m. on weekends.
Kaitlin McCallum is available by email at kmccallum@registercitizen.com.