The Haddam-Killingworth Recreation Department is offering a Holiday Extravaganza trip on Sunday, December 4. The fee is $61 per person. The bus will leave Killingworth Elementary at 9:45 a.m. and the HK High School at 10:00 a.m. It will return at approximately 7:30 p.m. The first stop will be in the Hu Ke Lau Restaurant and Dinner Theater in Chicopee, Massachusetts, where you will receive a Lei greeting by the Polynesian dancers. Sit down to a complete luncheon featuring a choice of Prime Rib OR Chicken and Broccoli with Pork Fried Rice and Chicken Fingers. After lunch, enjoy the "Christmas in Hawaii" show featuring Polynesian dancers. Imagine being transported to the Hawaiian Islands to enjoy Christmas songs and traditional Hawaiian Christmas Dances.

After the show, we will depart for the Holyoke Mall and the Christmas Tree Shop, a well-known and favorite to bargain hunters. There will be time to browse and shop.

The final stop will be Bright Nights in Forest Park, New England's largest lighting display, featuring more than 2½ miles of magnificent lighting displays with over a quarter of a million lights. You will drive by and through spectacular and whimsical places such as Seuss Land, North Pole Village, Toy Land, Giant Poinsettia Candles, Victorian Village, etc. Fee includes Deluxe Motorcoach Transportation, complete luncheon and Polynesian Show, and Bright Nights. To register, please call the Haddam-Killingworth Recreation Department at 345-8334.

To the Editor:
Claudette Lagasse is a candidate for the position of Town Treasurer in next week's Municipal election. I have known Claudette, her husband Donald and the Lagasse family for over 30 years. During this time I have witnessed Claudette's dedication, integrity and commitment to the Town of Killingworth in many capacities. Most evident are the countless hours that she has (and continues to) volunteered as an active member of the Killingworth Historical Society and the St. Lawrence parish. Claudette has remained active in both organizations over the years while raising a family of four, working full time and managing the family business. Complete letter

The HK High School Volleyball team defeated Coginchaug last night, three games to none, in a semi-final match for the Shoreline Conference tournament. Game scores were 25-20, 25-6 and 25-23. Read all about the game in today's Middletown Press. Pictured: Sawyer Kimball sets outside hitter Chelsea Anderson in game three. For more photos please visit the Online Photo Gallery

Klein Takes Stock of Town Labor Issues
Marty Klein, Democratic candidate for First Selectman in Killingworth, responded to news that his opponent received an endorsement by AFSCME, the municipal employees' union. "It's surprising considering the ongoing labor disputes between Killingworth's Republican administration and town employees. I think this negative relationship is hurting our town and its residents," said Klein. "I know AFSCME. They're good people. I look forward to working with them as First Selectman."

Klein said he regretted that AFSCME committed to its endorsement without input from him or his party, but emphasized that his goal is "efficient, well-run town government that is responsive and accessible to all our residents. Assuring that town employees are empowered and satisfied in their jobs is absolutely central to that goal."

State Senator Edward Meyer, chairman of the legislature's Select Committee on Children, today hailed the passage of a bill that will restore $2.2 million in funding to the HUSKY (Healthcare for Un-insured Kids and Youth) B program, effectively extending HUSKY B coverage to some of Connecticut's neediest residents. This legislation rescinds a plan to increase premiums and co-payments for children in financial need.

"There is no reason to enact, or in some cases, increase premium schedules for those families who have children enrolled in HUSKY B," Meyer said. "With an estimated $135.4 million budget surplus, the state will be using that money in one of the best ways possible, ensuring that the families in our state who are unable to obtain insurance through their jobs are cared for."

According to Connecticut Voices for Children, there are 136,000 fewer Connecticut residents who received health insurance through their jobs in 2003/2004 than in 1999/2000. Those people who are not offered health insurance through their jobs may then turn to the state's HUSKY insurance program, and qualify based on family size and income level.

"As chairman of the legislature's Select Committee on Children, I am proud to be able to vote for a bill that will continue to keep our children's best interest in mind," Meyer explained. "People should never be forced to forego medical or preventative treatment, especially our state's youngest residents, because they cannot afford the premium."

The House of Representatives also passed the measure, and the governor is expected to sign the bill into law.

The Haddam Killingworth Travel Basketball teams will play their season openers this Sunday at Killingworth Elementary School.

The Boys 10-year-old team, coached by Rich Walsh and Brian Dougherty, will play Guilford at 10:30 a.m.; followed by the 11 year-old boys, coached by Glenn Carlson and Ed Phelan, against Guilford at 11:45 a.m.

The 13-year-old boys, coached by Gary Marino, will play Guilford at 1 p.m.; followed by the Girls 10-year-old team, coached by Sandy Castlevetro, at 2:15 p.m. The 11-year-old girls, coached by Mickey Skwarek, will play West Haven at 3:30 p.m; and the 12-year-old girls team, coached by Bill Mooney, will play North Branford at 4:45 p.m. The nine-year-old boys team, coached by Jim Abbot and Tom DiMauro will play in Guilford.

This year, there are more than 61 players from Haddam and Killingworth ages 10 through 13 playing on seven teams. HKTB originated in October 2000 and participates in the Southern Shoreline Basketball League. HKTB began with one team of 10-year-old boys - today many of those boys are playing on local high school teams.

This Friday, November 4, is the night to get out and about in Killingworth. From kids to adults, there is an activity that is sure to please.

The Congregational Church in Killingworth will host its Annual Harvest Dinner on Friday with seatings at 5:00 and 6:30 p.m. Takeout dinners will also be available. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12, and will be available in advance at the church office, or at the door. All proceeds from the Harvest Dinner will benefit the Pastor's Scholarship Fund, which provides college tuition assistance to graduating high school seniors. For advance reservations, please call the church office at 663-1789.

The History of Killingworth Cemeteries will be presented at the Annual Meeting of the Killingworth Historical Society on Friday, 7:00 p.m. at the Killingworth Firehouse. Historian, W. David LeVasseur will be the guest speaker and the public is invited to attend. There is no charge for the program and refreshments will be served. Come join the Society for an interesting look at our local burying grounds.

'Hoop Fun for Kids' will take place on Friday in the KES gym. Tune up your basketball skills and help raise money for a worthy cause. All area elementary school kids are welcome to this KES-PTO sponsored event. Grades K through 3 will participate between 6-7:15 p.m. and grades 4-6 will participate between 7:30-8:30 p.m. The fee is $10. per participant with all profits going to charity. Call 663-3481 for more information.

The HK Players will perform the musical 'Grease' on Friday at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. in the HK Auditorium. General admission is $10 and student/senior admission at $8.

The HKHS Boys Junior Varsity Soccer team wrapped up its season Tuesday with a, 3-2, victory over Coginchaug. The win evened the Cougars' record to 5-5-2. Matt Waldman opened the scoring, unassisted in the first half, followed with a goal by Mike Mead, assisted beautifully by Emron Karimullah.

The Durham-Middlefield team would not go away and pulled even, 2-2, midway through the second half. Zach Kumnick anchored the defense for the Cougars and the JV squad put heavy pressure on Coginchaug late. Waldman scored the game-winner after a scramble and breakaway to secure it for the locals with only a few minutes remaining. The game was played at the high school under ideal, autumn conditions. Pictured below: Zach Kumnick on defense for the Cougars earlier this year. photo courtesy H. Kumnick.

Council 4 Union Endorses John Amport for First Selectman
Council 4 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) announced it has endorsed John Amport for First Selectman in the Town of Killingworth. "John is deserving of our endorsement", said Council 4 Executive Director Sal Luciano. "He is committed to the citizens of Killingworth and will be a strong advocate for quality public services."

The Council 4 endorsement process is based on a written questionnaire and in-person interviews. Council 4's delegate body of more than 200 rank and file members approves all recommendations for endorsement.

"I appreciate the support of Council 4", Amport said. "I look forward to working with their union members to ensure that Killingworth has an open, timely and responsible government."

Council 4 represents 35,000 employees throughout Connecticut, including Killingworth Town Hall Employees. Council 4 is the state's largest AFL-CIO union and is affiliated with the 1.4 million member AFSCME union in Washington, D.C.

To the Editor:
I would like to commend the administration of Regional School District 17 for their prompt, efficient and courteous handling of the notification to parents regarding children being dismissed from school yesterday due the robbery situation in town. I received calls from personnel at both of my children's schools to insure that both would be met off the bus or picked up from school by a parent or other guardian. I know there must have been hundreds of families to notify in a short time and that many parents may have been inconvenienced by the situation but I am most appreciative of the level of care and concern shown our children.

Sincerely,
Fiona Phelan

The State Police report that at approximately 4:30 p.m. this evening, the fourth suspect in this morning's attempted home invasion, Andre Cooper, was apprehended. He was found hiding in the bushes across the street from the elementary school.

According to the report, Connecticut State Police received a 911 call, at approximately 6:00 a.m. this morning from the homeowner at 17 Green Hill Road, reporting that a man attempted to force his way into the home after stating that he had run out of gas. The homeowner was able to close the door and alert police with a full description of the vehicle and possible suspects.

At approximately 6:30 a.m. a Trooper located the first suspect, Oscar Lee Anderson, of New London, at the Rte. 80/81 traffic circle. At approximately 8:00 a.m. a citizen near the Killingworth Firehouse observed a female and a male. The citizen contacted State Police while trying to delay the female suspect from leaving. Troopers immediately responded and took, Kimberly Alo, also of New London, into custody. The Hispanic male fled into the woods behind the firehouse.

At approximately 8:15 a.m. State Police were contacted by Roger Nemergut from his office just south of the circle. Nemergut stated that his office had been broken into and that the suspect was still inside the building. Troopers responded immediately and located the third suspect, Attilio, in the bathroom of the professional building. State Troopers then located the suspect vehicle, a black pickup truck, in the Dunkin' Donuts parking lot.

The State Police investigation and search uncovered information that was turned over to the Clinton Police Department who were in the process of a criminal investigation involving these suspects. According to wtnh.com, the incident started with a "burglary in Clinton where the suspects allegedly broke into a home at the Glen Haven senior citizen complex in Clinton. They robbed the homeowner of a large amount of cash and fled in an SUV. Police say this man appears to be the father of one of the suspects." Pictured below: State Police take the third suspect into custody in the parking lot of the Killingworth Veterinary Hospital on Route 81.

The Reg. 17 Strategic Planning Session scheduled for Killingworth Elementary School this evening 11/1/05 has been CANCELLED

9:30 a.m. State Police were called to the scene of an assault and break-in this morning at the north end of Green Hill Road. Dozens of State Troopers and police from Clinton combed the area around Route 81 searching for the suspect. According to reports, police were on the scene prior to 6:00 a.m. A suspect was apprehended near the Killingworth Veterinary Hospital on Route 81 at approximately 8:30 a.m.

Earlier, State Police alerted residents that they were looking for an Hispanic male, 5' 11", 200 lbs, with a mustache and wearing a black hoodie. A helicopter and police dog, as well as Troopers on foot and in cruisers, were used in the extensive search. It was not clear if there was only one suspect involved in the assault.

According to Killingworth Elementary School Principal Rita Peretto, the school has been secured and proper precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of students and staff.

11:15 a.m. Update: Commanding Officer, Sgt. Paul Vance, of the State Police said that three suspects, believed to be from New London, are in custody. He said they are still looking for the fourth suspect. He had no details of where the search was taking place.

Apparently, the four suspects stopped at a home on Green Hill Road, claiming to have run out of gas. An Hispanic male then attempted to break in and burglarize the home. No information is available at this time regarding injuries or the remaining suspect. State Police have recovered a car, but it was not yet known if this was a stolen car or the suspect's car.

1:00 p.m. Update: Important Notice for KES Parents and Caregivers
This announcement was distributed by the Regional School District No. 17:
Given the situation that happened in Killingworth this morning, we are changing our bus dismissal process in the town.

If no adult is at home to meet the bus, your child will be returned to KES until you can make arrangements to pick them up.

For more information, please check the website at rsd17.org or call 345-8526.

The 2005 HK High School Boys Soccer season came to an end yesterday with a disappointing, 2-1, loss to Coginchaug. The Cougars' final record of 6-8-2 will keep them out of the state tournament this year. Pictured below: #10 Tucker Cumpstone scores the lone Cougar goal on a direct kick, curved around the wall and in past the outstretched keeper. Photo courtesy S. Cumpstone

This week, Killingworth Democratic Town Committee member Michael J. Sanders offers his views on the Democratic slate's vision for Killingworth.

Our local election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 8th. Both Democrats and Republicans have called it the most important one in the past 20 years. Killingworth is at a crossroads and the decisions we make on Election Day will affect our town and our families for decades to come. full story.

The Killingworth Registrars of Voters will be at the Town Hall on Monday, November 7, from 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon to accept new voter registrations for residents with mature rights. This is anyone who has moved to Killingworth since October 25, 2005 or has turned 18 years of age or became a U.S. Citizen since October 25. They may than become eligible to vote in the Election on the following day.

The local teachers' organization, the Haddam-Killingworth Education Association (HKEA), is once again sponsoring a Board of Education Meet the Candidates Night. HKEA have been doing this as a public service since the 1970's. The format of the Candidates Night will be the same as previous years.

The 2005 Meet the Candidates Night is scheduled for Wednesday, November 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the Burr Elementary School cafeteria. An informational sheet from each candidate will be distributed to the audience as they enter. The public will be welcomed by a HKEA representative, then Mr. Daniel O'Sullivan, past Chairman of the Region 17 Board of Education, will assume his role as moderator. Each candidate will have three minutes to introduce themselves. Questions from the public will then follow. Arrangements will be made to have this event aired on the Regional School District #17's TV Channel #18. Refreshments will be served.

A cool, dry, Fall day brought out 129 competitors for the 12th Annual Haddam and Killingworth Youth and Family Pumpkin Run. The scenic race, which starts on the Higganum Green, was shorten slightly this year to a rolling 5K. In addition to the race, HK High School students and volunteers provided crafts, face painting and refreshments.

Men's Top Finishers:
1.David Harvey: 18:04
2.Tom Dimauro: 18:19
3.Ed Drew: 18:24

Women's Top Finishers:
1. Eileen Lawrence: 19:59 (11th overall)
2. Kellie Walker: 20:58 (18th overall)
3. Heather DeLaurentis: 21:18 (22nd overall)

On November 4 and 5, the HK Players will be performing "Grease", the well-known musical, written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. "Grease" is set in the 1950s and follows the love story of Danny Zuko (played by Ben Baxley)and Sandy Dumbrowski (played by Eliana Catalano.) Many know the storyline because of the film version starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton John; however, viewers will be surprised by some of the songs they hear that were dropped from the film version. The stage production ran 3,388 performances in four different theaters.

The HK production is under the direction of Choral Director Marcy Webster. The performances will be held at the HK High School Auditorium on November 4 at 7:00 p.m. and November 5 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. with general admission at $10 and student/senior admission at $8.

The HK High School Field Hockey team defeated Old Saybrook, 3-2, and Valley Regional, 6-3, on Saturday. Chelsea Griswold scored two goals and Lauren Bossie scored one in the Old Saybrook game. Leslie Zules scored three goals and Jess Hall, Lindsey Griswold and Chelsea Griswold each scored once in the Valley game. The Cougars are 10-2-1.

The HK High School Football team lost to Cromwell, 48-21, Saturday. Devon Bell, David Backlick and Matt Ramsey scored for the Cougars. HK is now 4-2 on the year.

In the Class SS CIAC State Cross Country Championships, Jake Corbett placed fifth overall with a time of 16:53. The Cougar team finished 9th.

The Boys Soccer team lost to Morgan of Clinton on Friday, 5-2, and lost, 5-2, against North Branford on Saturday. Tucker Cumpstone and Matt Waldman scored for the Cougars in the North Branford game.

Dear Editor:
We are asking the residents of Killingworth for your help. On Wednesday, 10/26/05 between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. a tractor-trailer was pulled over on Rte. 148 just before Venwood Lake, (Venuti property) heading toward Durham. The truck proceeded to turn around in the driveway at Venwood, back up and plow down and destroy about an eight-foot section of the stonewall, then proceed back up Rte. 148.

What we are asking from you is, if anyone saw anything or had a delivery on that day to please call us. Obviously this is very sad and disturbing that this has happened. In a small community like Killingworth, we all need to look out for one another as good neighbors should do.

So please call us with any information you may have. It's a very busy road during that time of the day, we hope someone saw something.

Thank you, sincerely,
Peter & Linda Venuti
860-663-1476

• Monday, October 31:
8:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Fashion Show & HKTV News & "Forgotten Heroes" & Music Video
10:00 a.m. & 9:00 p.m. Summer segments & HK Orientation & Perspectives & Class Acts & Class of 2005 HKTV News & Day in the Life: Kristen Durinik
• Tuesday, November 1:
8:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Fashion Show & HKTV News & "Forgotten Heroes" & Music Video
10:00 a.m. & 9:00 p.m. Summer segments & HK Orientation & Perspectives & Class Acts & Class of 2005 HKTV News & Day in the Life: Kristen Durinik
•Wednesday, November 2:
8:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Football: HK v. Hyde (game of 10/15)
10:00 a.m. Board of Education Meeting (10/11)
9:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen Debate (10/6)
•Thursday, November 3:
8:00 a.m. Football: HK v. Hyde (game of 10/15)
7:00 p.m. HKHS Senior Awards 2005
10:00 a.m. Board of Selectmen Debate (10/6)
•Friday, November 4:
8:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Killingworth Selectman Debate (10/20)
10:00 a.m. & 9:00 p.m. HKMS Talent Show 2005 & Class Acts
•Saturday, November 5:
8:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Killingworth Selectman Debate (10/20)
10:00 a.m. & 9:00 p.m. HKMS Talent Show 2005 & Class Acts
•Sunday, November 6:
8:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Killingworth Selectman Debate (10/20)
10:00 a.m. & 9:00 p.m. HKMS Talent Show 2005 & Class Acts
information provided by HKTV