The Social Network of Summer Running

I have always thought of running as a solitary endeavor. Traveling around the beautiful roads of Suffield this time of year it is easy to spot runners and their telltale washboard abs. Believe it or not, I have even had some folks living under my roof who actually think running is fun. But I may be on to them as they seem most excited to strap on the running shoes and head out the door when it is time to wash the dishes, mow the lawn or squeeze the dogs anal glands. This summer I started to notice the signs around town about a running series held at Bruce Park on Tuesday evenings.

Suffield Public Schools Lunch and Breakfast Program

The Suffield Public Schools has announced its policy for determining eligibility of children who may receive free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Waldo… “Revisited”…

As previously reported, I first spotted the barred owl in late December during a freakishly warm spell, in a heavy rainstorm. He became a frequent visitor for almost three months. During that time I was surprised to learn that an almost supernatural creature of the night could bask in sunlight by day, arriving in the morning, and tucking into that favorite cozy spot to take advantage of the warmth of the rising sun. I was relieved but truly amazed that such a large bird of prey, in a winter season offering him very little food, would openly perch in a tree, over an active bird feeder but would still rather doze off than desperately hunt the songbirds or even the squirrels below. Then, at dusk, would fly away to hunt more favored but elusive prey.

Irish Athletes Visit

For a week in early August, Suffield was the focus of a substantial party of international tourists. Fr. Mark Jette of Sacred Heart and St. Joseph advised the Observer that he had arranged for a team of young athletes from the town of Wicklow, in County Wicklow, Ireland, to come and visit.

Suffield’s New Superintendent Charting the Course

The new Suffield Public Schools Superintendent, Timothy Van Tasel, has been a Connecticut educator for over 20 years. He brings extensive leadership experience and a student-focused philosophy to our district, and he’s hit the ground running. He has already posted his “Theory of Action” on the Suffield Public Schools website at https://www.suffield.org/page.cfm?p=505. Aside from the expected references to the district, school, and students, the most common keywords he uses are “community,” “action,” “goals” and “leadership.” He very clearly states his “core beliefs are based on the key premise that all students can be successful.”

In addition, the Board of Education (BoE) and Superintendent Van Tasel have mapped and shared a set of goals for the district. A common, coherent set of goals provides a clear vision for all parties.

Library Opens with a Party

Finally! On June 29, as First Selectman Melissa Mack had announced earlier in June, Kent Memorial Library opened the doors of its renovated and remediated home on Main Street.