To the Editor:
Good going! I think this is a great idea. I happen to be one of those annoying people on our roads that really try to abide by the speed limit. It is a difficult thing to maintain the slower speed limits, especially when cars are constantly running up your rear-end. The most difficult speed limit to keep is 25mph. It takes a lot of effort, but it is the law.

Unfortunately, this is not just a problem in Killingworth, it is everywhere! So much so that I have been thinking of designing bumper stickers that say "DO YOU EVEN KNOW WHAT THE SPEED LIMIT IS?" or "Q: WHAT'S THE SPEED LIMIT? A: THE LAW!" or "LAW ABIDING CITIZEN? THEN SLOW DOWN!" Read more

Killingworth Elementary School and Haddam-Killingworth Middle School welcomed students for the start of the school year yesterday. Though DOT road crews delayed the teachers and buses, the school day got underway only sightly behind schedule. More delays can be expected as the paving is completed on Route 81. After the Labor Day holiday, the Chittenden/Route 81 culvert project will resume and delays can be expected there when trafic lights are turned back on and the small stretch of Route 81 is limited to one lane.

KES now supports kindergarten through fourth grade with approximately 400 students and the middle school now supports fifth through eighth grade with 840 students. In addition to the Killingworth schools, the high school and two elementary schools in Haddam opened. The new childcare facility located at the old middle school opened on Tuesday. Read more about the facility in the Hartford Courant.

Students, parents and teachers gather for the first day of school at Killingworth Elementary

Buses carrying students roll in for the first day at the HK Middle School.

A registration and informational meeting will be held on Friday, September 14th at 7 PM at the KES music room for all new and returning Cub Scouts. All boys in grades 1 through 5 are welcome to join.

Our Scout Pack will be seeking two parents from the new Tiger Dens (1st graders) to volunteer to be Den Leaders, so please consider becoming part of the Pack.

You may call Mark Simoniello at 663-2060 if you have any questions.

To the Editor:
I wrote this in response to Amy Perry's letter of a few weeks ago but never sent it to the editor. Today's article about the driving plan for September 10 has spurred me on.

While we're being honest, there's nothing like seeing those police lights to make you slow down. When I was given a warning on Green Hill Rd in Madison for going 47 about 10 years ago it really did have an effect on me. It did slow me down. (But not to 25 mph.) Having a teenager who's driving has been another incentive to pay closer attention to the rules of the road. I've always been a careful driver but reminders are good. Read more

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To the Editor:
I fully agree!!! Some of these folks are comin' down Green Hill and other Killingworth roads like a 'bat out of hell' and on top of this they want to 'tail gate'. Most of us moved here, in part, because we fell in love with just how 'quaint' Killingworth remains. In many ways Killingworth is still a place 'far removed' from the 'hustle and bustle' of the modern day 'dog eat dog, rat race' that is all around us.

It is very sad that some feel that our beautiful old roads are like '95' and they want to go 60 and 70mph. Their immature driving will eventually cause great injury, or worse yet, death. If they would only slow up and, as the song goes 'stop and smell the roses'!!!! There is an abundant amount of beauty to be observed when taking a nice 'slow' drive through our town. I personally do not believe there is any reason to speed in Killingworth, period!!! For those who must go over our speed limits, I say "move to another town"!!!!!!!!
Best Regards,
Mike Board

KillingworthToday.com and the Killingworth Krier are teaming up to promote a one-day self-awareness experiment. On Monday, September 10^th, residents are challenged to drive within the posted speed limits. Seems simple doesn't it? How often, in the course of driving to work, school, or on errands do you notice the speed limit signs and travel within those limits? Letters have been written; speed related accidents dominate the local and national news. Take the challenge. For one day, see the difference it can make, then share your experiences at editor@killingworthtoday.com.

At Monday's Board of Selectmen's meeting, members unanimously endorsed the challenge. Acting Highway Foreman Walter Adametz also endorsed the challenge and said he would urge his highway crew to participate. Tell your neighbors, friends, children, and spouse. It is one day to find out the real difference between driving within the law and pushing the limit. Are the limits reasonable? Do you feel more in control? What suggestions do you have now that you have actually driven the limit? Can you handle the challenge for just one day?

Read more about this in the September Krier. Over the next week, notice the signs, check your speedometer. Get Ready for the Challenge!

Simple Driving Facts:
How much time do you save by going 5, 10 or 15 miles over the speed limit?
If you drive 3 miles on an errand on town roads posted at 25 mph:
• Driving the limit, it will take you 7 min. 12 sec.
• Driving 30 mph, it will take you 6 min 5 sec.
• Driving 40 mph, it will take you 4 min. 30 sec.

If you drive 10 miles to school on roads posted at 35 mph:
• Driving the limit, it will take you 17 min. 8 sec.
• Driving 40 mph, it will take you 15 min 1 sec.
• Driving 45 mph, it will take you 13 min 20 sec.

If you drive 20 miles to work on roads posted at 65 mph:
• Driving the limit, it will take you 18 min. 27 sec.
• Driving 75 mph, it will take you 16 min 1 sec.
• Driving 85 mph, it will take you 14 min. 7 sec.

Is your gas mileage affected by the speed you drive?
According to www.fueleconomy.gov, aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas. It can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town. As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas.

The Board of Selectmen agreed Monday, to pursue a solution to the seasonal flooding problem on Lover's Lane. Town Engineer Howard Pfrommer presented the five possible solutions ranging from closing the road permanently to a $3 million pile supported bridge. As they did back in 2005, the Board agreed the most cost-effective solution was to install seven 2-foot pipes under the roadway to allow water to flow from one side of the road to the other. The project would cost approximately $60,000 and could keep the road open year round for a decade or more. The project would require an inland wetlands permit.

In 2005, First Selectman Marty Klein pulled the IWWC application with the same proposal after informal discussions with then IWWC Chairman Wayne Addy indicated the application would not succeed. On Monday, the Board asked Pfrommer to discuss the plan with the IWWC to see what compromises needed to be made to make the repairs happen. The Board of Selectmen has determined that the road is defective and presents a liability risk to the Town. The IWWC, however has the responsibility to uphold its regulations and can stop a project if it determines the change could harm the wetland area.

Pfrommer said a 2000 geotechnical study determined that the flooding was caused by peat under the pavement spreading out and causing the road to sink. Selectman Fred Dudek noted, in the last fifteen years, the only repairs to the road were some pot hole repairs done this summer. Former Selectman Louis Annino, Sr. noted that a traffic study determined that 600 cars a day use the road. He has been a strong proponent of keeping the road open in order to alleviate traffic on Route 81 around the new school and to provide an alternative emergency access to the north end of town.

As part of a Federal Emergency Management Agency homeland security grant, the Town purchased and installed a 100kw Detroit Diesel generator at Killingworth Elementary School. The generator was tested on Friday and is ready to automatically power the basic needs of the school should the power go out. In case of emergency, the heat, water and some lights will be available. The elementary school as well as the new middle school on Route 81 are available shelters in case of an emergency. Emergency Management Director Donald McDougal has been working with the town for several months to secure the grant and arrange for the installation. The Town was partially responsible for installation.

The Tuesday Book Discussion Group will meet on September 11th at the Killingworth Library meeting room to discuss Robert Morgan's novel "Gap Creek". This story of an Appalachian girl at the end of the 19th century has been described by reviewer Judy Gigstad as one of "plain expression, panoramic descriptions, attention to minute detail, and real human emotions." Discussion begins at 1:00 and newcomers are always welcome.

The cost of a college education is going up, but 344 Connecticut students, including Killingworth's Jessica Campbell and Catherine Ann Chase, will get help paying the bills thanks to scholarships from the American Savings Foundation. The foundation announced the awards at a reception for the scholars and their families where Rich Coppola, sports director for Fox 61 News at Ten, was the keynote speaker.

This year's reception included a symbolic presentation to the 1,000th student to receive an American Savings Foundation Scholarship. In just 12 years, the Foundation has awarded a total of more than $4.1 million to area students. American Savings Foundation scholarships are awarded primarily on financial need, with consideration given to academic potential and other indications of a strong desire to achieve goals through higher education. The Foundation helps support students for up to four years of college, with this year's scholarships typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 each.

"Our scholarship program has grown so much in the last few years, and we're thrilled to be celebrating our 1,000th student," said David Davison, president of ASF. "I was especially proud to meet some of our past scholars. It turns out that some are now teachers whose students may one day apply for our scholarship. We plan for this program to continue - and hopefully to grow - for years to come."

Campbell will attend Plymouth State University and Chase will attend the University of New Hampshire.

The George Manstan Big Band will play a concert in the park at Chatfield Hollow State Park on Tuesday, August 28th at 7:00 PM. The concert is free and will be held outside the historic Oak Lodge underneath the majestic white pines, weather permitting. Bring a blanket or chair and a picnic dinner and enjoy the show! Picnic tables are available on a limited basis.

Registrar of Voters Killingworth
The lottery to determine the placement of names on the ballot for the November election will take place on Thursday, August 30, 2007 at 3:30 pm at the Killingworth Town Clerk office.

Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
The First Selectman's Office requests that residents invited to the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner set for September 8, 2007 at the Middle School, please RSVP prior to August 30. Selectmen's Office: 663-1765

2007 Hurricane Season and Area Tree Experts
Weather experts are predicting an active hurricane season this year. Perhaps this may be the year that we experience a storm comparable to the hurricane of 1938.

With that in mind, the selectmen's office wants to thank the local tree services for their past service and to thank them in advance for keeping the needs of Killingworth's residents in mind should those hurricanes ever arrive.

During periods of emergency, the Town's garage facilities are available to the crews should they need them. Walter Adametz, Acting Highway Foreman, would be happy to answer any questions you might have regarding the garage amenities.

The Town is anxious to update its database with regard to tree service providers. Please call 860-663-1765 if you should have any questions.

If you have ever wanted to hire a personal trainer but felt you couldn't afford it, now you can! Experience the results of small group personal training with Fitness Trainer, Joey Morman at The Fitness Connection. The Fall session starts the first week of September and there are still a few spots open. The 1 hour classes are held at The Fitness Connection studio and you get personal training in a small group setting for only $155. Classes meet twice a week for 6 weeks. You will work out your whole body each class and most importantly, you will love the way you look and feel after only 12 sessions. The Fitness Connection is also offering Yoga this Fall with Hatha Yoga instructor, Cindy Vogt. For details or to reserve a spot in either, call 860-663-0326. Get connected with The Fitness Connection and start feeling great about yourself!

Monday August 20:
• 5:07 AM: Medical emergency, Chestnut Hill Rd
• 12:28 PM: Medical emergency, Route 81
Tuesday August 21:
• 8:21 AM: Medical emergency, Chestnut Hill Rd
• 9:04 PM: Motor Vehicle Accident, Rte 148 in the area of Blue Hills Rd
Thursday August 23:
• 7:12 PM: Fire alarm, Bethke Rd
Saturday August 25:
• 9:21 PM: Medical emergency, Route 148

The HK Travel Basketball League is seeking volunteer coaches for its 4th/5th grade boys' team. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering for this worthwhile and competitive group, please contact us at HKTravelbball06@comcast.net.

An open house will be held at the University of Connecticut's Middlesex County Cooperative Extension Center, 1066 Saybrook Road, on Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event is being sponsored by the Middlesex County Extension Council to promote public awareness of the outstanding programs and activities offered by the Extension Center. The event will feature many activities, demonstrations and exhibits including autumn lawn care, chain saw safety and GPS. The "Ewe and I" 4-H club will demonstrate wool spinning and dry felting. There will be a basket raffle and mum sale with the proceeds going to benefit Extension programming. Free refreshments.

The road resurfacing on Route 81 was an unavoidable headache for those of us traveling through Killingworth recently. During the very same week, the Killingworth Library encountered its own avoidable headache: three of our five Internet access computers crashed from too much "recreational" use. A downloader virus attacked the machines, which filled them up with spyware and left them completely unusable by patrons and staff. Vince Bongiovanni, the chair of the library board's computer committee, spent six long (volunteer) hours working to solve the problem.

Although our patrons were very patient during this time, we are now asking that everyone using the library's Internet computers follow the additional rules posted at each terminal. The library prohibits the use of instant messaging, chat rooms (including MySpace, Facebook, etc.), online gaming, and adult-themed sites. These sites are the worst offenders for dropping viruses and spyware into computers, and they are an inappropriate use of library resources.

We are counting on our patrons to read and abide by these rules. Parents should be aware that the library staff is not expected to supervise young people using the computers; if you are concerned with where your children may be going on the Internet, please visit the library with them. We will be more than happy to direct you to appropriate sites and information about staying safe online.

Over 11,000 people used our computer resources during the last fiscal year. If all the drivers on the Internet highway obey the "rules of the road", our computers will remain clean and functional, helping us to avoid future headaches.

(Note: the library offers free, one-on-one computer training. Volunteer Helen Mahoney can teach interested patrons the ins-and-outs of email, safe Internet searching, word processing, etc. Please call the library at 663-2000 to arrange a session.)

Legal Notice
Town of Killingworth
Board of Assessment Appeals
Notice of Special Meeting

The Killingworth Board of Assessment Appeals will meet in open session at a special meeting on Saturday, September, 15, 2007 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Town Office Building for the purpose of hearing appeals to the assessments of Motor Vehicles on the 2006 Grand List

Richard W. Albrecht, Chair

Susan C. Buchanan, 77, of Punta Gorda, Florida and Killingworth, Connecticut, passed August 20, 2007 after a brief illness. Physician, educator, wife and mother, she was the first female Chief Medical Resident in the history of New York Hospital. She is survived by her husband J. Robert Buchanan M.D., daughter Allyn Buchanan, son Ross Buchanan and granddaughters Elise Buchanan and Erin Buchanan.
A private memorial service will be observed by the family.

Agenda
Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen
Monday, August 27, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.
Town Office Building

1. Call to Order
2. Approve Minutes of Meeting held on August 13, 2007 and Special Meeting of August 22, 2007
3. Visitors:
4. Tax Abatements & Refunds
5. Appointments/Vacancies:
    1. IWWC - vacancy
6. Old Business:
    1. Lover's Lane - Present Road Choices - Howard Pfrommer, N. Jacobson Assoc.
    2. CT Water Company - Attorney Michael Wells
    3. Custodial Service - Award of Bid
    4. Tibbals Bridge Rd. /Jay Dowd Rd. Quit Claimed to Hammonasset Fishing Assoc. - set date of Town Meeting
7. New Business:
    1. Discussion re. Blight Ordinance - Attorney Michael Wells
    2. Discussion re. Vendor Ordinance - Attorney Michael Wells
8. MK Announcements
9. Selectmen's Concerns
10. Adjournment
Agenda as of 11:40 a.m. Friday, 8/24/2007
Printable version

To The Editor:
As a lifelong Killingworth resident, I have witnessed many changes in our small town. Most of these changes have aided in the positive growth of our town. I applaud the residents and political officials for supporting local businesses. Due to the town's support, Killingworth has continued to grow and prosper into a community that its residents can continue to be proud of. I would personally like to recognize the residents of Killingworth and elected town officials for valuing the importance of local businesses and the contributions these businesses bring to our community.

Respectfully,
Jean Watson Coady