The first day of the 2015-2016 school year begins on Thursday, Aug. 27 for Bristol Public Schools. Here are some events and activities happening in different schools in the district:
Ivy Drive School: On Wednesday, Aug. 19, an ice cream truck will come on Shawn Dr. from 12:30 – 1:00 p.m. On Monday, Aug. 24: Meet teachers and see your classroom from 3-4 p.m. On Thursday, Sept. 17, 5-7:30 p.m., a back-to-school barbeque and open house will take place from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Greene Hills School: On Wednesday, Aug. 19, a welcome back to school ice/cream/book truck will be at Bristol Community Organization on Lake Avenue at 11 a.m., and will also go to other locations. On Tuesday, Aug. 25, kindergarten orientation will take place.
Northeast Middle School: On Thursday, Aug. 20, orientation for sixth graders will take place at 9:30 a.m. On Friday, Aug. 28, a school-wide assembly will take place to welcome students, introduce staff and discuss special events. On Thursday, Sept. 10, open house will take place from 6-8 p.m.
Bristol Central High School: On Monday, Aug. 17, Freshman Orientation picnic will take place at 10 a.m.
Bristol Eastern High School: On Tuesday, Aug. 18, Freshman Orientation will take place from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Former Bristol Eastern High School physical education teacher Michael Archangelo has turned himself into police for charges of risk of injury to a minor and second degree harassment.
According to a press release from the Bristol Police Department, Archangelo turned himself into police this morning on an arrest warrant, which was obtained as a result of an investigation of an incident involving the former teacher and a student at Bristol Eastern. Archangelo left Bristol Public Schools in mid-December, but it was unclear whether he resigned from his position or was terminated.
The warrant is sealed, and no other information can be released at this time, the release said.
Archangelo was posted a $10,000 surety bond, and is scheduled to appear in Bristol Superior Court on Feb. 29.
Bristol Eastern High School students performed Monty Python’s Spamalot last weekend. The show brought King Arthur’s court to the stage in a spoof interpretation. The show was filled with music, dance, and comedy. Photos by: Tammi Naudus
By KAITLYN NAPLES
STAFF WRITER
Bristol Eastern High School’s top two students are happy to see all of their hard work has finally paid off, especially when they received their acceptance letters to college.
Mitchell Lipka, this year’s valedictorian, will be attending Harvard University this fall to study Math. Bethany Cucka, the salutatorian, will be attending Brown University to study Chemistry and Biology.
When the two found out they had been named the top two students, they both said they knew they were ranked at the higher end of their class. But Lipka added “it’s still always nice being recognized for your hard work.”
After four years of high school, both students could reflect on many memories and accomplishments that have brought them to where they are today.
“Figuring myself out and setting goals was definitely something I am most proud of,” Cucka said. She said starting out as a freshman, and seeing herself as she is now, brought a perspective of how she has changed and said she credits that to always setting goals. Whether it was in volleyball or academics, Cucka said she knew where she wanted to be, and that she wanted to carry the sciences with her into her future. She was also part of the volleyball team, which recently won this year’s state championship.
“I am definitely proud of who I have become,” she added.
For Lipka, he never played a sport until he got to high school but he is happy he started. Lipka was on the swimming team, cross country, and the track team. He said he enjoyed being an athlete.
Both students attribute their successes to how hard they have worked throughout their academic lives.
“Success is how hard you work,” Lipka said. “I always wanted to learn new things, and I always make sure I am interested in actually learning about a subject,” and containing that information.
Cucka went through high school with the same idea, in that she said she loves learning.
“My goal has always been to get good grades, go to college, and get a job,” she said, adding that having that in her mind helped her get to where she is today. “Those were my motivating factors to work hard.”
Some of their favorite memories happened around their athletics. Winning the state championship this year with her volleyball team was one of Cucka’s favorite memories of high school, she said.
“When can I ever say that I won a state championship,” she said, adding that she enjoyed the time she has spent with her teammates, as they became family.
Lipka said he had so many favorite memories in high school he couldn’t pick just one. Between being a member of band, and also an athlete he has had many memorable moments. He said he is sad to be leaving, but looking forward to what the future brings.
The duo will leave Bristol Eastern with advice and words of wisdom to their fellow classmates, and the incoming freshman.
“Take responsibility for your own education,” Cucka said she would tell incoming freshman. “There are so many people here to help you, but you have to be committed to succeeding.”
Lipka said he would tell freshman to always “try hard, and remember that high school is very different from middle school. These grades matter now.”
To his fellow seniors, he said it was difficult to give advice since he is in the same position as them, but he will be moving forward by remembering that he is going to be on his own in college.
“Teach yourself things,” he said.
Cucka added she would tell her classmates to remember there are many open doors in life, and to keep the ones that matter, open.
“Find something you’re passionate about and follow through with it,” she said. “Don’t pick the easy path just because it’s easy.”
Bristol Eastern’s graduation will be held on Tuesday, June 25 at 6 p.m. outside on the football field.
Bristol Eastern High School is ready to send its seniors out into the world beyond. Bethany Cucka, salutatorian, left, and Mitchell Lipka, valedictorian, are at the top of the Class of 2013. Graduation is June 25.
Bristol Eastern High School held commencement exercises at the school on Tuuesday.
The Bristol Eastern High School Class of 2013 is (see full story next Friday):
**Leanne Marie Aakjar
Brenden Matthew Aleia
Eric Almodovar
Mario Ramon Alvarado
Alexandra Marie Anderson
Miranda Marie Anderson
Terrance Luis Arroyo
Britni Marie Atkins-Ratte
Lindsy Michelle Avritch
Nicole Marie Avritch
*Victoria Ashley Bailey
Autumn Judith Baker
Brett James Banning
Jessica Lynn Baril
Kristina Marie Baril
Zachary Raymond Battistoni
Erik Richard Beaulieu
Monic KimberlyMarie Beaulieu
Nicole Joanna Bellefleur
Matthew C. Bengtson
*Tyler Joseph Benoit
Ryan Ellis Betz
Analey Marie Bissonnette
Michael Richard Blakelock
David Thomas Bland
Shanatra Lashay Boone
Megan Allyson Bossie
Ethan Christohper Boucher
Lorenzo Sharron Brown
Devon James Brunet
Devin Juwan Bruno
Natalie Lynne Burke
*Alan Frederic Burkholder
Charles Curtis Bush
Luis Manuel Calderon
Juan Carlos Camacho
Nathan Thomas Cannon
Angela Jean Canzonetti
Daniel George Carboni
Joseph Brendan Cardello
*Kyle Daniel Caron
Allison Elizabeth Case
Daniel Justin Catucci
Emily Elaine Catuccio
Ivan David Centeno
Ryan Christopher Chiasson
Meghan Nicole Christiana
Lindsay Marie Cimadon
Nicholas John Cimadon
Tyquan Rashawn Clark
Jose Jamil Claudio
Michael William Clement
Sara Ashley Coburn
Simone Ashley Cole
Zachary Taylor Cote
Amanda Lee Coufal
Nicholas Arthur Crowley
**Bethany Cleta Cucka
David John Cugno
Laura Elizabeth Cyr
*Samantha Jane Czertak
Stephanie Pauline D’Angelo
**Morgan Maye Daley
Mollie Ann Deegan
Veckman Nino DeJesus
Nicholas Connor DellaBianca
Owen John DellaBianca
Alicia Nicole Deprey
Alyssa Joanne DeSena
**Taylor Marie DiChello
Tyler Francois Dionne
Toni Marie DiPinto
David Michael Dixon
Eva Draka
Meghan Marie Dudek
Jared Matthew Dumont
Casandra Marie Dyson
Filip Dziarnowski
Anastasia Catherine Dzikas
Donte Alexander Esposito
**Lee William Estrellado
**
Two sets of twins in the Class of 2013 at Bristol Eastern High School strike a pose. From the left, Lindsy Avritch, Nicole Avritch, Troy Estrellado, and Lee Estrallado. Bristol Eastern graduated on Tuesday.
By MIKE CHAIKEN
EDITIONS EDITOR
Bristol Eastern High School’s Class of 2013 officially became graduates last Tuesday.
For the seniors, it was an opportunity to reflect on where they’ve been at BEHS and where they’re headed next.”
Prior to commencement exercises last week, Kelly Vaughan was asked what she was going to miss about Eastern.
“I would like to say the theater department, having us (student performers) all together, and having the entire group together at once. This year, there are 18 seniors… We’re going to try to have a reunion. But we’re never going to be all together at once.”
Alissa Onofrio added, “I’m really going miss the theater and the dance team. And there’s a lot of really great faculty.”
“I’m going to definitely miss the teachers,” Anna Thomas said.
Zach Cote said, “I’m going to miss the whole experience of high school… everything from your teen age years… and especially the music department and the theater department.”
From graduation forward, Thomas said she was looking forward “to being able to reach out and to know other places, not having so much isolation like here. And (I’m looking forward to) spreading my wings and doing whatever I have to do to succeed.”
“I’m looking forward to getting in depth (in college) in the areas I’m really interested in,” said Vaughn. “I’m doing English and theater in college… I’m looking forward to really exploring those areas.”
“The high school experience was great,” said Onofrio, “but I’m really looking forward to the college experience. I’m ready for that point in my life. I’m ready to explore all of these new learning opportunities there.”
Cote said, “I’m going to college in New York City… to further my knowledge and adventures… which will be fun— I feel like I belong there.”
In his address to the graduating class, valedictorian Mitchell Lipka told his classmates that as they head into their separate futures, “Don’t stop reading, keep your hobbies, don’t give up your art,” said Mitch. “The rest of your life doesn’t have to end tonight.”
Student speaker Megan Bossie told the class of 2013, “When you reach your next destination, you will build on to what you have already accomplished. You will keep building until you reach your dream. Life isn’t about finding yourself, it’s creating your self.”
“Life is a collection of starts and finishes like a chapter in a book,” said class president Nicholas Cimadon. He told the students that they are closing one chapter of their lives. But they also are moving onto the next.
Several adult speakers addressed the Class of 2013 as well.
“Remember where you came from, remember the people who challenged you… and nurtured you,” said Board of Education Chairman Chris Wilson.
In his comments following a presentation of a proclamation to valedictorian Lipka and salutatorian Bethany Cucka, State Rep. Christopher Wright (D-Bristol) said, “Learning is a life-long experience, one that never ends.”
To the Class of 2013, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Solek said the graduates are now “members of a family forever bonded… Do us proud.”
By MICHAEL LETENDRE
STAFF WRITER
When the fall scholastic sport’s season gets underway, the programs at Bristol Eastern will open the campaign with one heck of a bang.
The athletic program is continuing to raise money for its field lighting project and in the weeks to come, they’ll be some big news on that front.
“We have some big things going on with the lights” at Bristol Eastern said Chris D’Amato.
But before that, the school will hold two nights of outdoor, evening sporting events and will once again bring in the portable lights for the festivities.
The Lancers will host its first ever soccer games under the lights from the campus of Bristol Eastern high school on Tuesday, Sept. 10.
The girls team is up first at 5:30 p.m. and will be squaring off against CCC Interdivisional foe Farmington while the boys will do the same at around 7:15 p.m. and take on the Indians.
“The kids are excited, the parents are excited, and our Booster Club is excited,” said D’Amato of the event. “A lot of the Farmington people are actually excited too because it’s fairly close and it’s a first time event for us. A lot of the kids know each other through soccer leagues and just playing with each other in soccer clubs.”
But it will be more than just a soccer game.
It’s turning into a grand homecoming event and the hope is many former Eastern players from days gone by will come see the contests.
“At the soccer game, we’ve invited as many alumni female and male soccer players throughout the program to come for the game just to watch,” said D’Amato. “At halftime, we’re going to try to set up a little program and announce and invite any alumni on the field to take pictures. Just to have them back would be a huge thing.”
D’Amato also wants to compile an e-mail list of those past soccer players and there will a tent and table set up at the game just for that purpose.
Also at the game, youths from the Bristol Soccer Club will be at the event and they will be announced on the field with the high school teams before the game.
“They’ll come out walking hand in hand with the players,” said D’Amato of the Bristol Soccer Club. “And then we’ll have a mini five or six minute game on the field as well at halftime.”
It’s a huge event for the Eastern campus considering the soccer games will be played on a Tuesday night and not a weekend date.
“Granted, it’s a Tuesday night, the first game of the year and we’re hoping that it won’t deter people because it’s in the middle of the week,” said D’Amato. “But just like with the football game, we’re hoping for a ton of people to come back to the school. Kids love having things on campus because it’s easy to get to.”
“The fact that both the girls and boys are playing under the lights, on the same night, it’s going to be another huge event for us.”
The raffle for the 2013 Nissan Versa, which will help support the Bristol Eastern High School Athletic fund for the lights, is still ongoing and tickets are still available.
Tickets are just $20 each and can be purchased at Bristol Eastern through D’Amato, Eastern football coach Mike Archangelo or history teacher John Stavens.
They’re also available at City True Value Hardware and Shannon’s Jewelers on Route 6.
Dunphy’s Ice Cream and Diversified Engraving are also still selling the raffle tickets.
“We’re (also) going to have them at every sporting event, starting in the fall,” said D’Amato of the raffle tickets. “They’ll be available at all the volleyball, soccer, and football games leading up to the October event.”
“Worst cases scenario, anyone can purchase them from Bristol Eastern high school.”
Also for tickets, you can simply call the school and ask for Chris D’Amato or John Stavens and they’ll take down your information and have the tickets sent out or you come to Eastern and pick it up.
A number of the soccer parents at Eastern also have raffle tickets as well.
There are 3,500 total tickets available for purchase for the car raffle and the hope is to sell most of them before Oct. 20.
“At the games, if you don’t want to buy a raffle ticket, you can donate any kind of money you want to the actual fund itself,” said D’Amato.
All money donated is being held at the Main Street Foundation and is tax deductible.
Any type of donation will be accepted.
In terms of the actual night of the event in regard to parking, seating, security and the like, the staff is ready for two nights of amazing sports action.
“Logistically, we know how to run it now, we know what to do,” said D’Amato. “We know about the parking, what to do with the buses, everything should run very smoothly.”
“It will be the perfect opportunity for the community to now only see our kids but to see the midget soccer kids come out as well.”
And if these home games are fun this time around, who knows what the future will bring come the fall season in 2014?
“We’re just trying to bring as much excitement as we can,” said D’Amato. “We’re going to have the (portable) lights there for the whole week actually (and) for the games on Tuesday and Friday.”
Part of the tradition of the Battle of the Bell football game between Bristol Central High School and Bristol Eastern High School is the pre-game activities.
Before the kick-off, the senior players and cheerleaders are accompanied onto the field by their families. Then both marching bands march onto the field, accompanied by the local pageant representatives. Then after the playing of the national anthem, the mayor, Ken Cockayne, stepped onto the field for the annual coin toss.
By KAITLYN NAPLES
STAFF WRITER
The 29th annual Bristol Home & Business Expo was another success last weekend, despite the warm temperatures and sunshine that could have distracted residents suffering from this winter’s cabin fever.
Linda DiMatteo, executive assistant to the president, and vice president of events and administrator of the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce said she thinks the event brought out more people than it did last year, and said there were about 110 vendors present, including businesses and non-profit organizations.
“I always think it is a positive thing,” DiMatteo said, adding that many businesses already signed up to attend next year’s event.
One of the most notable events was when former University of Connecticut basketball star Rebecca Lobo stopped by the Covanta Energy booth to meet and greet guests and sign autographs and take photos with fans.
“I was thrilled to be invited to be here,” Lobo said, while a line of guests waited to meet her and get their University of Connecticut memorabilia signed. Lobo said she was excited to experience more of Bristol, since she is just used to getting off the highway and heading straight to ESPN. She said she enjoys meeting people wherever she goes, especially younger children and likes to see how she can positively influence young girls.
Covanta has been sponsoring the celebrity guest at the expo for several years and has brought in many athletes and other guests.
In addition to many local businesses that cover all industries, from home improvement, energy conservation, senior living centers, medical treatments and more, this was the second year for the craft fair held at the Home & Business Expo.
Joan Simpson, organizer of the craft fair, said she had about 20 vendors that participated in this year’s expo.
Pam Strom, owner of PammyTail of Meriden, said she attended the home show last year and enjoyed spreading the word about her business. She started out making hair accessories for ponytails and has grown her business to making “story telling bracelets.” Her bracelets can be custom made to whatever her clients are looking for, with charms that are birth stones, sports symbols and much more.
Another craft vendor was Gail Farrar, with her business Shellcrafts by Gail, of Bristol. She took up the hobby of making ornaments, frames and more with shells she has found all over the world. It started while she was working as a cancer nurse and eventually turned into a business, rather than just a hobby.
She said she attended the home show last year as well, and said “it is a great crowd, and is nice to come out and see your friends and neighbors.”
Farrar not only sells her crafts but also teaches classes at places like the library and assisted living facilities. She was making hair accessories while home show guests stopped by to see what else she had to offer. She sells many of her products in local gift shops, and enjoys sharing her creativity and love for shells with others, she said.
Also at the Bristol Home & Business Expo were several departments from Bristol Hospital, including representatives from its rehabilitation program.
Linda Panikowski, a certified hand therapist at Bristol Hospital, said she was talking with expo guests about different kinds of hand therapy and treatment for issues like carpal tunnel. Bristol Hospital was also providing flu shots, as it has done in past years.
There were many non-profit organizations at this year’s expo, like the Bristol Relay for Life. Patty Coley, co-chair of this year’s event, said it is the 11th year in Bristol and the event has a goal of raising $90,000. The event raised a little over $74,000 last year, even though the rain forced the event to move inside Bristol Eastern High School.
“This year’s event is themed ‘Teaming Up Against Cancer’,” Coley said, adding that the Relay is still accepting teams and volunteers for the event that will kick off on Friday, June 6. So far the Bristol Relay for Life has 28 teams and 127 participants who have raised $3,368.91.
The annual home show is put on by the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce and Jenks Productions.
Sadeehe Momegul of Torrington shops for perfume at the Business and Home Expo at Bristol Eastern High School Saturday.
Mary Brown, left, of Bristol Bliss shows Kathy McNamara some of her products at the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce Home and Business Expo at Bristol Eastern High School Saturday.
Genevieve, 8, and Jesse, 10, Johnson make a birdhouse at the Home Depot table at the home show.
Former University of Connecticut basketball great Rebecca Lobo, left, poses with Kevin Cyr and his autographed basketball on Saturday. Lobo was a special guest at the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce Home and Business Expo at Bristol Eastern High School this weekend.
At the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce Home and Business Expo at Bristol Eastern High School Saturday, Natalie White, left, demonstrates a hair straightener for Geri LeBlanc.
By MICHAEL LETENDRE
STAFF WRITER
SOUTHINGTON – The Bristol Eastern volleyball team threw the preverbal kitchen sink at Southington on Friday night, Oct. 19.
And in turn, the Knights threw it right back at the Lancers.
In an exciting tit-for-tat, back-and-forth, battle to the end, five set marathon, Eastern posted its biggest win of the year and picked off the Knights 3-2 in a CCC Interdivisional showdown from Southington in front of a hot and rowdy crowd.
Eastern won the match in sets of 21-25, 25-19, 25-23, 24-26 and 15-11.
The Lancers raised its record to a perfect 15-0 ledger while the Knights fell to 11-4 on the campaign.
The sweeps of Farmington and Glastonbury were impressive this past year for the Lancers but Eastern, trailing one set to nothing off the bat and even as the pressure was mounting, a fifth and final set was forced and the Lancers were the ones celebrating a huge victory in the end.
“This is what we really practiced for,” said Eastern coach Stacey Rivoira. “This was our first, true test at playing a team that matched us pretty equally and I just wanted the girls to enjoy it.”
It wasn’t a total masterpiece for the Lancers as Eastern made some mistakes along the way.
Eastern made 10 service errors, had over 35 defensive miscues, 16 passing mistakes to go along with 16 blocking gaffes.
But through it all, Southington made similar mistakes and in the end, those miscues by the Knights outweighed the ones made by the visiting squad.
“I think that it was a match that exposed our weaknesses and challenged us to really play a smarter game,” said Rivoira. “We haven’t had that yet this season. As great as it was to come out on the winning end, I think that the girls learned more from today’s game than any other game they’ve had all season and really as a team, this is where we want our competition to be.”
“Win or lose, you feel good playing a team like that and a team that pushes you to go beyond your level and make you think.”
Karissa Smith led Eastern’s charge with 15 kills, three blocks and 17 digs while Beth Cucka added seven kills.
Cheyenne Orsi rained down 10 kills and posted four blocks while teammate Jessica Hubina added eight kills and made an outstanding 18 digs.
Maggie Getler (six digs) and Brooke Johnson (five digs) were strong on the serving front while setter Brianna Root once again piled up the assists with 33 and got those Eastern frontline players the ball in all the right spots.
Jenna Rodjenski also played well, making a kill, producing 12 digs, and was solid from the service line with 13 points.
For Southington, Corinne Horanzy was simply sensational as her power game was on full display as she tallied 28 blazing kills to go along with 17 digs.
Eastern did a credible job at meeting Horanzy at the net but her power game propelled the Knights to a fifth and deciding set.
Setter Danielle Kaminsky racked up 48 assists for Southington.
The match intensity is something Eastern will see not only to end its regular season but in the upcoming state tournament.
“We play Coventry on Wednesday, it’s great preparation, and they needed this,” said Rivoira. “We can only get so much out of practice every day. They needed to see a hitter like Corinne, snap that ball at them, and put the ball down with such power and finesse. She is a phenomenal player and my girls needed to play against someone like that. My girls needed to see how their block matched up against that.”
“We needed to see what we need to do to get better (and) a game like this help us to do that and a game like this helps us tremendously going into Coventry’s game.”
Eastern looked a bit nervous off the first whistle but credit the Lancers as it turned a five point deficit into a 12-12 tie off a Smith slam that was tipped out of bounds.
From that point, Southington went on a 9-2 run – taking advantage of a few Eastern miscues – to lead 21-14 and eventually pick up a 25-21 set one victory.
“We struggled in the beginning with our serving,” said Rivoira. “In that first game, we were just kind of flat and I think it took a little bit of time to get into the groove of playing against a team that was of such high caliber. I think they wanted it but to actually face it, was a completely different thing and they really needed to settle into their game.”
“I think we were able to do that for the most part.”
From there, Eastern shook off the cobwebs and took command of the second and third sets.
The Lancers posted a 9-3 edge in the second game as Southington never got any closer than two points the rest of the way.
Eastern won the set 25-19 off another ace by Smith and the match was afoot.
Again, the Lancers surged out strongly in the third set and off slams by Hubina and Cucka, Eastern’s lead was 13-6 and, again, the visitors never trailed from that point.
But Southington chopped the score to a single digit late in the frame on three separate occasions.
However, a quick tip over by Root – which was not returned – ended the set with Eastern a 25-23 winner.
The fourth set was a battle of epic proportions with the teams exchanging the lead eight times to go along with 17 ties.
Both teams did not lead by more than three points, with Eastern clinging on to a 17-14 edge midway through things.
The set was a 23-23 stalemate until Southington made a remarkable return off a shot that hit the ceiling. But Smith slammed it home and the Lancers were one-point away from victory in the match at 24-23.
It would not come to pass as Horanzy racked up two straight kills and off a non-returned serve by Danielle Kaminsky, the Knights escaped the stanza with a 26-24 win and the match was quickly tied at 2-2.
With the crowd buzzing, Southington drew first blood in the final set of the night.
The Knights led 3-1 early but saw its lead evaporate in the final set. But off along slam from Maryssa Romano, Eastern’s lead was trimmed to 7-6.
But the Lancers went on a game defining 6-1 jaunt and off a tip-over by Cucka and a miscue from Southington’s Caroline Berry, Eastern held an imposing 13-7 cushion.
Off a 5-0 Southington run – capped by an ace from Allison McCormick – the Lancers lead was plucked to 13-11 but that was as close as the home team could get it.
Off a bad Southington serve and a big Smith slam that was not returned, Eastern hung on to win the set 15-11 and took the match 3-2 in a very exciting showdown.
“No one can take away the fact that we won this game and I want us to enjoy that,” said Rivoira. “It was a really tight game at the end. We were fortunate to keep (Horanzy) on the back row because offensively, we were able to put some serves in and they made some mistakes with some key serving errors that hurt them.”
“It just came down to who would make the least amount of errors at the end.”
Recently, the tennis team at Bristol Eastern High School made a donation to Girl Scout of America Camp Carlson in honor of a former player, Holly Getler, who passed away in 2007.
by KAITLYN NAPLES
The memory and legacy of a Bristol woman continues to live on five years after she lost her battle with Kidney Disease in 2007.
Holly Getler passed away at the age of 21. Yet her memory continues to be honored at Bristol’s Camp Carlson, a Girl Scout Camp of America, where she spent several years as a camp counselor. Getler was a student at Bristol Eastern High School, and was a member of the tennis team, band, and many other activities. After Holly passed away, the tennis team began fundraisers in her honor and memory that have allowed young girls to attend Camp Carlson who may not be able to afford to go otherwise.
Last week, the tennis team donated $450 to Camp Carlson in memory of Holly. The funds had been raised by current tennis team members as well as former tennis team members dating back to 1976. This isn’t the first time the team has donated in memory of Holly, who was an outstanding athlete and amazing individual, said Sarah Radl, who has been directly involved in the fundraising efforts and is a former tennis player.
“She was a huge part of the Bristol Eastern (High School) community, and I’m proud to have known her as a person and will never forget her and her amazing smile,” Radl said, adding that this year t-shirts were donated and sold for the fundraiser that reflected tennis teams from 1976 to 2012.
Tennis coach Tom Chauvin said he taught Holly in the classroom and coached her on the tennis court. He said she was the kind of student who was always looking for ways to do better.
“The drive and courage she had will always stay with me,” Chauvin said.
Holly’s sister Maggie and her father Dan attended the check presentation, and said Holly was a great role model, daughter, and sister.
“She was always there,” Maggie said.
Camp Carlson Director Liz Lee said the impact Holly had on the campers and others at camp is never forgotten. Lee said Holly would dress up as a superhero each summer, and the camp continues to have a “super hero day.”
“Every small act that we do makes a huge impact on these girls,” Lee said, after she read a letter from a parent whose child was able to attend Camp Carlson because of donations. She added campers still remember Holly, who she said made so many positive impacts on them.
A family friend, Lani O’Conner, said Holly always had a positive impact on everyone she came in contact with.
Database administrator for fund development for the Girl Scouts of America, Erin O’Meara, said Holly “always had such a great spirit and positive attitude about her. She was one of the most genuine people I ever met.”
Camp Carlson is a day camp for girls entering grades 1 through 12, and is located on Willis Street in Bristol. Anyone interested in donating to the camp in honor of Holly Getler can send payments to Girl Scouts of America, earmarked Camp Carlson Holly Getler, to 340 Washington St., Hartford, CT 06106.
Comments? Email mchaiken@BristolObserver.com.
Bristol Eastern and Bristol Central at last year’s Battle for the Bell.
By MICHAEL LETENDRE
STAFF WRITER
BRISTOL – Maybe the term that best describes the season the Bristol Eastern football has gone through in 2012 is “wacky.”
The Lancers squad has seen an unprecedented number of injuries to its ranks this year and every time Eastern looked to be turning the proverbial corner, another hurt player seems to deplete an already thin bench.
But that doesn’t matter now: it’s time to prepare for Thanksgiving.
The Lancers have shown a fighting spirit over the season and Eastern would love nothing better than to finish the year on a high note and get to .500 by hanging a loss on Bristol Central.
Here’s what to expect on what should be a very busy Thanksgiving Day game:
Head Coach: Mike Archangelo (Undefeated in Thanksgiving Day play).
Date and time of the game: The teams will clash at 10:30 a.m.from historic Muzzy Field on Thanksgiving Day.
Last Year: Eastern won for the fifth time in a row, defeating Bristol Central 21-14. The Lancers have not lost on Thanksgiving since 2004.
The Roster: Aaron Harris (sr., Captain, G/T); Sean Aiudi (jr., T); Kyle Porter (jr., G/T); Dreu Tucker (sr., C/T); Richard Szymczyk (sr., T); Alex Hunter (fr., QB); Nick Crowley (sr., Captain, TB/LB); Gabe Kurasz (sr., Captain, TB/LB); Juan Gonzalez (sr., WR/CB); Kenny Smith (jr., WR/E); Harrison Sacharko (sr., TE/E); Jahmar Effend (jr., LB); Alex Macias (so., CB); Gerry Ouellette (so., S); Jozef Hermann (so., S); Jeremy Meccariello (so., PK); Michael Belton (jr., WR); Roderick Green (jr., RB/OL/DL); Kyle Baker (jr., LB); Steve Goodrich (so., LB);
W hy Eastern will win:Eastern will make stops on defense. Plus, the Lancers have shown an ability to bounce back from big losses and off the Northwest Catholic and Wethersfield setbacks, Central looks ripe for the pickings.
X-Factor: Health. Just like Bristol Central, the winner of this game will all depend on who’s on the field. It’s only going to take one additional player to show up to practice with a broken thumb or a burst appendix (or whatever) to really slow down the Lancers.
Bristol Central can NOT…fall asleep on Eastern’s defense. The Lancers have some weapons on “D” and the Central line better close those seams and gaps to protect QB Andrew Laviero.
Outlook: Just as the big game has come around for Bristol Eastern, the injury picture has become even more clouded.
Or has it?
It depends what happens between game nine and Thanksgiving in terms of returning players or reacquiring injuries..
Just take the quarterback position for example.
Going into Thanksgiving, the squad is down to its third QB but at that slot, freshmen Alex Hunter has shown poise beyond his years.
He’s had to and in two starts this season, Hunter has shown ability to not only move the ball in the air but do it with some accuracy.
Hunter has connected on 19 of his 42 passes for 334 yards and three touchdowns in two games worth of starts.
He’s still learning the game but he has a veteran core of receivers he can chuck it to that will aid the young chucker.
Kenny Smith has been a pleasant surprise in 2012 and has made 18 catches for 350 yards and three touchdowns.
If he beats you down the field, forget it.
Defensive standout Juan Gonzalez (nine catches, 125 yards, two touchdowns) has been a force all over the field and he’s certainly be a bright spot for the Lancers.
He’s the leader on the team in kickoff return yardage, is one of the team’s top tacklers and has two interception returns for touchdowns.
Michael Belton has made some plays for the Lancers (five catches, 97 yards) while snatching two interceptions and scoring one touchdown.
In Eastern’s ground game, the Lancers have more than a couple options at its disposal.
Injured Nick Crowley (121 carries, 537 yards, 11 TD’s) has been the featured back but an injury has kept him limited in the running schemes.
If Crowley can’t fully go offensively, he’ll still be a huge factor in the defensive aspect of the day.
If he’s 100-percent healthy, Crowley will match Central running back Tyler Burrow tit-for-tat.
Of course, Hunter (64 carries, 145 yards) also will move the ball while a number of backs will have a chance in the ground game.
Gerry Ouellette, Harrison Sacharko, and the emerging Roderick Green – who can do a little of everything for the Lancers – will also take some snaps.
That trio will also be important factors on the defensive end of things.
And it’s on defense that Eastern can cause some serious problems for Central.
At one time, injuries claimed Sean Aiudi and Jozef Hermann. But they have returned and the duo can cause some havoc on the field as can Kyle Baker.
Aaron Harris also will help out on defense as will Rich Szymczyk.
Eastern’s defense is nearly identical to Central’s as the squad gives up around 24 points-per-game but must stand pat in the third period.
That’s where opponents have beaten up on the Lancers, outscoring Eastern by nearly a touchdown on average.
A healthy defense keeps that third period within reach and it would be a huge deal breaker for Eastern.
But it’s those injuries that could keep the Lancers from putting its “A” team on the field.
“Health is huge,” said Eastern coach Mike Archangelo. “We played from the first quarter of the first game without key starters. We’re hoping to have everybody back full strength for Thanksgiving and I think we’ll be a different team.”
Gabe Kurasz was basically lost after Week 1 but if could make any kind of appearance on Thanksgiving, it would be a huge boost.
Same goes for line “enforcer” Kyle Porter as the junior got knocked out of the Northwest Catholic game and did not play against Wethersfield.
While Eastern hasn’t been able to hang a loss on any of the elite teams if has played this season, the Lancers have smashed all the rest of the competition pretty easily.
But outside of Week 1, the Lancers have been rarely healthy and if Eastern wants to scoop up this one, all hands must be on deck.
Bottom Line: Defense will win this game and that’s where the war must be won.
Both squads have been plagued by injuries this year but not like Bristol Eastern.
A healthy return to the gridiron for the Lancers will really go far in Eastern reaching the .500 barrier.
And the winner is…Bristol Eastern takes its unprecedented sixth Thanksgiving Day game in a row, defeating Bristol Central by a 28-20 final.
A scene from the 2011 Battle for the Bell between Bristol Central and Bristol Eastern.
By MICHAEL LETENDRE
STAFF WRITER
BRISTOL – Does the Bristol Central football team has a good chance at finally toppling crosstown rival Bristol Eastern on the annual Thanksgiving Day game?
Well, the squad certainly has a good shot at it.
With a little momentum on its side off a big win against E.O. Smith last week – plus a little boost on the health front – this team is poised to win its first Turkey game since the likes of Aaron Hernandez and Matt Coyne were causing havoc on the field back in 2005.
But it won’t be easy as Eastern has been a big bounce-back team in 2012 and off two straight losses coming into the showdown, the Lancers will be hungry to reach the .500 barrier.
Here’s a look at the Rams and what to expect next Thursday.
Head Coach: Sal Cintorino (looking for his first Thanksgiving Day victory with BC).
Date and time of the game: The teams will clash at 10:30 a.m. from historic Muzzy Field on Thanksgiving Day.
Last Year: Central, trailing 21-0, made a huge last quarter comeback and fell by only seven points (21-14).
The Roster: Andrew Laviero (sr., QB); Marty McNiff (sr., OL/DL); Cy McIntosh (sr., G); James Glowa (sr., G); Jake Martel (sr., DB/CB); Ronny St. Denis (sr., FB/SS); Tyler Burrow (jr., TB); Andrew Martin (sr., OL/DL); Keon Walton (jr., WR); Gino Rafaniello (DL); Christian Hildebrand (jr., IL); Caleb Hildebrand (so., LB), James Glowa (sr., OL/LB), Kevin Boi (jr., OL/LB); Austin Rollins (jr., NG); Bobby Jaccques (jr., OL/DL), Jarrett Michaels (jr., TE/OL); Taylor Whitten (TE); Glenn Pierce (sr., left tackle), Nathan Hamm (jr., RB), Josh Moxom (fr., OL/DL), D’Andre Conaway (so., RB).
Why Central will win: Offensively, Central can give the Lancers some real problems. Former Eastern receiver Keon Walton is dangerous in the open field and Tyler Burrow will run through a brick wall if he has to for that extra yardage. And then there’s quarterback Andrew Laviero who, if given time, will make connections all over the field.
X-Factor: Health. This team has been banged up from week to week and hopefully, Central has all its big guns ready for the big game.
Bristol Eastern can NOT…Allow Tyler Burrow to make any type of kickoff return. If Eastern kicks Burrow the ball, it could be six quick points for Bristol Central.
Outlook: This is a game for the taking by Central and after defeating E.O. Smith last week, this team sees a little daylight at the end of the tunnel.
And beating Eastern on the biggest day of the season would give the Rams a 4-6 ledger this year while a .500 is mark is out of the cards for Central, the season has still been a success.
Central will work off the strength off its offense – and its outstanding line- as the Rams have the all the tools to score points against a stingy Eastern defense.
Tyler Burrow will be looking to join the exclusive 1,000-yard club as all the junior back needs is about 48 yards to nab a four-digit total.
Burrow has rushed for 16 touchdowns this year and has 952 yards on the ground entering the BC/BE challenge.
He can strike quickly and if you dare to kick him the ball off a punt or a kickoff, be prepared for a long runback and a possible score.
Then, you throw in the likes of senior quarterback Andrew Laviero and the Central offense has some real ability to strike and strike quickly.
Laviero has had some big throwing games this season and has racked up 1,173 yards off 70 completions that was good for eight touchdowns.
The QB has taken a bit of a beating this year – per his usual – but Laviero never quits and if you throw him around, he always bounces back and comes for more.
Eastern transfer Keon Walton has played extremely well for Central and leads the team in reception yards.
The speedy Walton has 14 catches on the year for 349 yards on the season and a team leading four touchdown receptions.
And then you have crafty receivers like Jake Martel (15 catches, 279 yards, 2 TDs), Ronnie St. Denis (team-leading 18 receptions, 294 yards, TD) and Burrow (14-114) who are all tough to mark.
Laviero and crew will give the Lancers problems and if Central starts to throw the ball, Eastern’s defense will be kept busy.
Walton can also run the ball on the ground with reliability as he has made 26 rushes for 179 yards and a touchdown.
Central has a little speed in key areas and that’s where the Lancers will have to make that first tackle count.
But all those Central players get open for a reason.
Again, it’s the Central line who deserves the headlines here and the likes of Marty McNiff, James Glowa and Gino Rafaniello, good things always seem to happen and those seams and holes they make give Burrow that escape he’s looking for.
Defensively, if Central can make stops early and often in the game, the Rams will get a quick edge in the showdown.
Central has given up 112 first period points this year, while yielding 76 in the second, and those tough starts always seems to put the Rams behind the eight-ball right off the bat.
Central allows 12.4 points in the first stanza alone at that’s where the Rams’ defense cannot let Eastern light up the board early.
Overall, Central allows 30.7 points-per-game but making some early stops against Eastern is critical.
If the Rams‘ defense is up to the task – and healthy – then Eastern will have a battle on its hands.
Martel can make some stops while St. Denis and Walton will also help out.
Rafaniello is a pest defensively while Caleb and Christian Hildebrand will be big on the line.
Kevin Boi and freshmen Josh Moxom will also help out as this defense has some real stopping power.
Again, it’s all about health and if the full compliment of players is available on both sides of the ball, Central will be able to throw the kitchen sink at the Lancers.
Bottom Line: If Bristol Central comes out and plays like it did in that last second loss against Farmington, the Rams can pull this one off.
If Central simply sticks to its game plan, victory number four is at hand.
And the winner is…This is going to be close – like last season – but Bristol Eastern sneaks out this one with a 28-20 victory in what will be a close game.
The city of Bristol held a vigil Dec. 23 to remember the victims of the shooting in Newtown, Conn. that occurred on Dec. 14. Twenty children and six adults died in the events at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Residents gather in the auditorium of Bristol Eastern High School for a vigil held Dec. 23 to remember the victims at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. A gunman killed 20 children and six adults on Dec. 14. The incident has drawn worldwide attention to Connecticut.
Clergy and city leaders gather on the stage at Bristol Eastern during the Dec. 23 vigil for the victims killed in a shooting in a Newtown school on Dec. 14.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ellen Solek speaks Dec. 23 at the city’s vigil for the victims of the Dec. 14 shootings in Newtown.
Victoria Kilbourne, left, and Austin Kulig address those in attendance at the Dec. 23 vigil held for the victims of the Dec. 14 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. The community gathered at Bristol Eastern High School to remember those killed in the incident
By KAITLYN NAPLES
STAFF WRITER
After being buried in snow for days, residents are probably looking for ways to get rid of that cabin fever. This weekend, the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce is hosting an annual event that is a sure way to get out of the house and prepare for spring.
This weekend is the The 28th Annual Bristol Home & Business Show at Bristol Eastern High School, and is an outlet to discover new home improvement projects and businesses that are based right here in Bristol.
“We’re looking forward to a great weekend,” chamber President and CEO Michael Nicastro said. “It is a great way to find out about things to do once the weather gets better.”
The home and business show, which will be held on Saturday and Sunday, brings in vendors from all areas of expertise such as home improvement, financial services, personal electronics, roofing and siding, interior design, health and wellness, and assorted consumer goods. Places like Bristol Hospital will be at the home show providing health screenings, and the Bristol Lion’s Club will be holding eye sight tests at its booth. An added bonus this year is the first ever craft fair at The 28th Annual Bristol Home & Business Show, which will bring in all kinds of talented craft vendors as well as entertainment and programs for children. There will be a disc jockey, a magician and a balloonist, cartoon characters and more, so while parents are checking out home improvement vendors or other craft vendors, children also will have activities geared towards them. Craft show vendors include, but aren’t limited to, wood crafts, purses, jewelry, scarves, paper crafts, photos, soaps, candles, pins, hair accessories, quilts, gourmet apples, buttons, sand art, fabric art, and more.
Home Depot once again will have a spot for children to build a project, and New York Giants Linebacker Spencer Paysinger is also scheduled to appear on Saturday, Feb. 23 from noon to 2 p.m., where he will greet fans and sign autographs at the Covanta Energy booth. Nicastro added that local museums, non-profits and other organizations will be present at the home show, which is a way for families to see what Bristol has to offer.
The home show is being put on by both the chamber and Comcast Xfinity, and was produced by Jenks Productions.
This is the first year the chamber is not holding the home and business show on Friday evening. Nicastro said the chamber decided to follow a more traditional schedule, like other home and business shows. He added that sometimes vendors aren’t able to completely set up before the show would begin on a Friday. This way, vendors will be ready to go Saturday morning.
The 28th Annual Bristol Home & Business Show will be held on Saturday, Feb. 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 24, from 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Bristol Eastern High School, 632 King St., Bristol. Admission to the Bristol Home & Business Show is $6 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 to 11, and children under 5-years-old are free.
Comments? Email knaples@BristolObserver. com.
If you thought the plan for bringing lighting and a turf field to Bristol Eastern was no longer in the cards, that’s not the case at all.
And according to Bristol Eastern’s Chris D’Amato, the Bristol Eastern Athletic Renovation Committee hopes to be nearly halfway to its goal in bringing in lights to its football and soccer field.
Getting the lights in place is Phase I of the program and on Friday, March 22, the committee will once again be holding a dinner to raise additional money for the cause.
The second annual fundraiser dinner will run from 6 to 10 p.m. from Nuchie’s Restaurant in Forestville.
And, of course, the lights and field won’t just be of benefit to the Eastern sports programs.
The project will be of benefit to an assortment of programs as lacrosse, soccer, and football programs of all ages and youth levels will be able to make use of the facility.
The evening will consist of dinner, a silent auction with a variety of different items for bid, and other raffles as well.
There is also an on-going car raffle and the committee expects – by the end of October – it will have nearly $100,000 in donations and be halfway to its goal of the lights.
“This is the real McCoy,” said D’Amato of the efforts to bring lights and eventually, an all-weather field to the campus of Bristol Eastern.
There’s still plenty of time to purchase tickets to the March 22 dinner event and are $40 each.
They can be purchased by contacting Chris D’Amato at 860-584-7876, extension 255.
Tickets should be purchased by March 19.
As their senior year comes to a close, Bristol Eastern High School students Alexandra Allen and Emily Stadnicki have their eyes set on the future.
The valedictorian of Bristol Eastern’s Class of 2017, Allen will attend George Washington University where she will study accounting and political science this fall. While she hopes to become a certified public accountant for a firm, Allen said there is a chance she may also venture into politics, since she will attend school in D.C.
“I have always been a numbers person, so I easily fell in love with accounting,” said Allen, adding how she always wanted to attend a big college in the city. “Community engagement is also important to me and the easiest way to get involved is through politics.”
The salutatorian of Bristol Eastern’s Class of 2017, Stadnicki will attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where she plans to study biochemistry and math. Although she never met him, Stadnicki said she will walk in the footsteps of her grandfather, earned his Ph. D. at WPI.
“My grandfather was a biochemist. He created different medicines,” said Stadnicki. “I never met him, but he’s had such an impact on the way I see the world. He just had such a love for life and helping people, and I want to continue his legacy.”
For the top seniors, juggling academics, extracurricular activities and work did not come easy.
From serving the math team and band to indoor track and soccer to varsity lacrosse, Stadnicki dove into different areas of interest throughout high school.
Although she enjoyed being a part of so many different groups of people, Stadnicki said what she accomplished outside Bristol Eastern was a rewarding part of her high school experience.
Through her involvement with the Bristol Soccer Club, Stadnicki has helped children with special needs enjoy the game of soccer.
“It’s been the most rewarding experience that I’ve done since my sophomore year,” said Stadnicki, adding how she will always remember the bonds she formed with her teammates.
Although she enjoyed participating in the National Honor Society and running brackets for the dodgeball tournament, Allen also found working with youth to be a rewarding part of her high school experience. For the past 10 years, Allen has trained at Risu Martial Arts Academy, where her job entails teaching and guiding children.
“My job is to teach and guide kids through martial arts so that they may become well-rounded people,” said Allen. “It’s such a rewarding experience seeing a student embrace their confidence and succeed.”
Looking back on their time at Bristol Eastern, Stadnicki and Allen grew in a variety of ways, especially in the area of leadership.
Through her experience serving as a student representative for the Board of Education this past school year, Allen used her voice to bring a change to the high school midterm schedule. Last December, Allen addressed the board about adopting a half-day schedule for midterm exams, which were originally administered on full days of school.
In May, school officials unanimously approved the change, which will take effect during the 2017-2018 school year. The new schedule now mirrors that of final exams, which, like midterm exams, count for the same weight in students’ grades and cover material from the same period of time.
“I realized that we students also had a voice in school policy,” said Allen, adding how she hopes future student representatives also will ‘speak up in order to make a change for the better.’ I had the honor of speaking up for myself and others in hopes of change.”
Besides serving as band president and captain of the varsity soccer team and lacrosse team, Stadnicki also joined Bristol Eastern’s new freshmen mentor program, which gave her an opportunity to offer an additional support to incoming high school student.
“I hope I showed them that you can really do whatever you want in the school,” said Stadnicki. “It’s possible to succeed in many different areas of your interests as well as academics. You can make so many new friends and new memories.”
CHESHIRE—The Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) announced a poll to select the top championship moment from the 2017-18 school year.
The official CIAC championship broadcast partner the NFHS Network streamed 51 championship finals this past year and 20 top plays or critical moments have been featured (one from each sport covered) for fans to choose from.
The poll is available at casci.ac/3629 at CIACsports.com and the moments will also be shared on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube so that fans can cast their vote. hashtag #CIACMomentsVote.
” CIAC is excited to give fans their say by selecting their favorite championship moment from the past year,” officials said in the release.
The voting will close on Friday, July 20 at noon and the top 5 will be announced in a top 5 daily countdown the following week.
The cast of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ at Bristol Eastern High School rehearse a scene from the musical in preparation for next Thursday’s opening night.The cast of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ at Bristol Eastern High School rehearse a scene from the musical in preparation for next Thursday’s opening night.
By MIKE CHAIKEN
EDITIONS EDITOR
Bristol Eastern Theater Arts brings its cast—and the audiences—back to the Roaring ‘20s… kind of… with its production of the musical parody, “The Drowsy Chaperone.”
The show is atypical for a high school production and the time period is one the high school students probably only know about through history books. But this hasn’t stopped the actors from falling in love with the show, which was produced for Broadway in 2006.
The story begins with a young man of the present sitting in a chair listening to a classic record album from the 1920s. And as he hears the music, he imagines his own take on the classic musicals of that era. An over the top and comical tale proceeds to be spun.
At first, said senior Annie Kaczmarczyk, who has the lead role of Janet Van De Graaff, a showgirl looking to say goodbye to the stage as she courts an oil tycoon, “I didn’t really have a reaction because I have never heard of it but once I looked it up I was very excited.”
Freshman Emma Kelly, who is a member of the ensemble, said when she learned BETA was doing “The Drowsy Chaperone,” said, “My first thoughts of the show, were that it seemed funny and actually pretty exciting.”
Junior Megan Madore, another ensemble member said: “I wasn’t familiar with the show but when I heard it was a Broadway show I knew it was going to be good and couldn’t wait to be a part of it.”
As for what she likes about the BETA production of the musical, Annie said, “I feel now everyone is really comfortable with their characters and now you can really see how funny each of the different personalities of the characters are which makes the show even more hilarious.”
Emma said, “One thing I like about the show is the choreography. Our two student choreographers are very talented, and have arranged some very fun dances for the whole cast.”
“The style of music and dancing are definitely fun and energetic,” added Megan.
Emma added, “My favorite dimension of the production is probably either the dance (numbers) or the songs. Both are really fun.”
“The songs by far (are the best part of the show),” said Annie. “They are just so catchy, I end up singing them all day long. All the songs really show off the talent our amazing cast has as well as conveys humor in a very interesting way that I think the audience will really enjoy.”
As for what they like about what the BETA actors bring to the table in terms of talent and sense of community on stage for “The Drowsy Chaperone,” Annie said, “The cast this year is just amazing. We all help each other, which really helps bring to light new jokes in the script that were once ignored. The show is coming to life more and more each rehearsal as we all are getting comfortable and just having fun.”
Megan said: “(The BETA cast members) make it fun to be on stage and put a little part of themselves into their roles.”
Emma said “One thing I like about how our fellow cast members have helped bring the show to life, was through the choreography that they’ve created and adding their own personalities into their lines and songs. Overall, our cast is incredibly talented and involved.”
But, Annie said, “The biggest concern I would say for myself and the rest of the cast is making this show as special to the audience as it is to us. We all are trying our best to bring each character to life and make the audience feel like the man in the chair and transport into another world rather than just watching a show in the theater.”
As for why audiences should attend “The Drowsy Chaperone,” Annie said, “It’s ridiculously funny.”
“There are a lot of laughable moments but you have to come and see,” Megan said. “‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ is really entertaining. You never know what’s coming next.”
“There are something’s in this that aren’t in most shows,” said Megan.
Bristol Eastern Theater Arts presents “The Drowsy Chaperone” on Thursday, May 1, Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3 at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. at Bristol Eastern High School, 632 King St., Bristol.
Tickets are $8 for students, staff, and seniors and $10 for general admission. There also will be a special discount for senior citizens for the matinee on Saturday with tickets only $5. Coffee and refreshments also will be served before the matinee on Saturday.
Bristol Eastern High School’s salutatorian Phuong True Nguyen Dinh, left, and valedictorian Caroline Boyce are recognized by State Rep. Christopher Wright at last Thursday’s graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2014.
The Class of 2014 at Bristol Eastern High School is as follows:
Syed Coumal Abbas, Kathryn Anne Adams, Juanita Marin Adolphus, Cassandra Elizabeth Aiken, Sean Donald Aiudi, Alexis Makaila Ashby, Malaika Alanis Ashby, Courtney Lynn Aubin, Christopher Adrien Avila, Jennifer Rose Bak, Kyle David Hollis Baker, Samantha Lynn Bard, Nicole Amber Barkley, Macie Elizabeth Barnett, Chandler Ives Barry, Brandon Ronald Beaudet, Corey Joseph Beecher, Brett Philip Belanger, Sarah Ashley Beliveau, Michael Marquice Belton, Cesar Nicolas Beltre, Nicole Marie Bender, Nicholas Peter Benvenuto, Emily Marie Berube, Michael Paul Berube, Ryan Michael Berube, Samantha Lynn Bevivino, Julia Rose Biernat, Erica Adeline Bolduc, Andrew James Bouchard, Dominic Marshall Boucher, Emily Margaret Bourassa, Chandler Nicholas Boutin, Caroline Frances Boyce, Victoria Ann Brewer, Ashley Nicole Brown, Tanisha Brown, Melissa Ashley Burke, Charles Edward Bush, Courtney Elizabeth Bush,
Clayton Jeffrey Caggiano, Isabella Miranda Camasura, Adam W. Canfield, Elizabeth Marie Carbonell, Marissa Leigh Carlson, Joshua Jasper Carney, Nicole Marie Caron, Jessica Lynne Carter, Anthony Michael Casasanta, Paul Joseph Chabot, Erika Lyn Ciccio, Christopher Abimael Claudio, Ember Cherie Cloutier, Isaiah Lawrence Cochran, Brianna Marie Colangelo, Chloe Michaila Conner, Erika Renee Corriveau, Christian Jonathan Cote, Alexander Peter Crameri, Nicole Teodosia Crapser, Christian Anthony Craven, Saige Terese Crowley, Justin Cruz, Kaylee Renee Cruz, Rodolfo Cruz-Santos, Elizabeth Mary Curto, Dylan John Cyr, Samantha-Jo Harley Czarnecki,
Andrew Kenneth Daigle, Mahrang Danish, David Antonio DaSilva, Michael John Davey, Chante Jacqueline Davis, Joshua Aaron Davis, Eric Julius DeBerry, Ramon Luis Delgado, Emily Rose Deltano, Nicholas Ryan Deltano, Benjamin Joseph Derosier, Marisa Denise Desjardins, Phuong Truc Nguyen Dinh, Tyler Jack Dionne, James Robert DiYulio, Jenna Marie Donaghy, Thomas Joseph Dowling, Scott Michael Drouin, Alana Mary Dubois, Aimee Lin Dufresne, Meghann Crystal Dunn, Brendan Dyer, Benjamin Ronald Edgerly, Jahmar Duane Effend, Elijah Lemmuel Encarnacion, Jack William Englehart, Da’malisha Marie Ervin, Mia Elizabeth Farias, Kaylee Marie Feldblum, Adrian Pavil Femiak, Jacob Emmett Finn, Melina Florine Floyd, Brian James Fomenko, Douglas Todd Fongemie, Noah Tyler Fradette, Richard William Franklin, Kendalyn Catherine Frawley,
Ryan Arthur Gallagher, John Lawrence Gangl, Phillip Jr. Garcia, Sylvia Krystyna Garcia, Tyler Christopher Gardner, Seth Alan Garthwait, Jr. , Adam Matthew Gauvin, Abigail Marie Geda, Margaret Dena Getler, Anna Maria Gill, Tyler Marc Gionta, Kara Lynn Girouard, Katie Marie Girouard, Carly Marie Giuliani, Jessica Lynn Goodwin, Kaylee Marie Goral, Kaitlin Marie Goulet, Jared James Grabowski, Alexandra Marie Grant, Andrew Peter Green, Ashley Nicole Green, Roderick Lamont Green, Hannah Karen Grenier, Hailee Savanna Gunn, Jesse Henry Gutaukas, Nicole Lee Hammer, Rafi Hamzy, Victoria Marie Harrington, Shayne Avery Harris, Shawn Gary Harter, Naqi Hasan, Sarah Elizabeth Hayes, Jasmine April Hilliker, Wyatt Robert Hiltbrand, Sarah Elizabeth Hochman,
James Robert Jackie, Sierra Rose Jalbert, Justin Michael Jankoski, Kaleigh Marilyn Jankowski, Breann Marie Johndrow, Ashleigh Rose Johnson, Brooke Taylor Johnson, Gavin Christopher Johnson, Savanna Rose Johnson, Desare Dayja Jones, Sophia Rolande Joseph, Annie Elizabeth Kaczmarczyk, Ruba Khan, Alyssa Katherine Kilpatrick, Marjorie Ann King, Zethe Daniel King, Jenna Elizabeth Klimek, Breanna Nicole Knox, Joanna Korpanty, Katherine Marie Kosenko, Stien Nangoy Kountur, Angelica Kraska, Rebecca Carol Krosnicki, Emily Jeanine Kulesa, Michelle Elizabeth Kulowski, Jenny Elizabeth LaRochelle, Ashlyn Paris LaVallee, Jessica Lynn Lavertu, Jamie Kathryn Lavigne, Katherine Monique LeBeau, Kristy Lee Lescrynski, Alanna Noelle Levesque, Brittany Elanna Lewandoski, Jared Peter Lombardo, Gerald Thomas Lorenzetti, Cynthia Sundara Louro, Brandon Michael Lumbra, Benjamin Ly,
Cooper Robert Madden-Hennessey, Mallory Rose Madore, Brandon Joseph Maghini, Serinda Mak, Floyd Quentin Malone, Alyssa Jacqueline Mancuso, Sally May Manning, Stephen Thomas Maroney, Kayla Ashley Marquis, Allison Marie Martin, David Joseph Martone, Jack Ryan McCarthy, Shawn Michael McConnon, Sean Patrick McKenna, Andrew Thomas Michaud, Gabrielle Marie Michaud, Cole David Middleton, Lance Lewis Mitchell, Tanika Laurie Mitchell, Rachel Anne Moderacki, Shantell Shana Moore, Daniel Sebastian Morocho, Alex Matthew Morrissey, Brett M Mortimer, Dilenia Ann Mota, Victoria Saydah Moun, Kyle Christopher Munette, Heather Anne Murray, Prianka Rani Naha, Savannah Lee Nash, William Joseph Newell, Clayton Michael Nogiec, Peter Joseph Norris, Jason Christopher O’Keefe, Jake Richard O’Leary, Magdalena Arelys O’Neill, Joshua Barry Oakes, Bishop Joel Olivo, Chanel Nelis Olivo, Cheyenne Janay Orsi, Zachary Jose Orsi, Endder Ortiz,
Sean Michael Palzere, April Anne Pandolfio, Alyssa Marie Paradis, Savannah Mae Pare, Matthew Ryan Parker, Austen Steven Parks, Tiffany Ann Pasqua, James William Pavelchak, Cassandra Rose Pearson, Dallen Joseph Pearson, Anthony Amede Pellerin, Jacob Rick Pelletier, Nicole Lynn Pelletier, Tomas Pesta, Dean Phillip Pierce, Brendan David Plasczynski, Timothy Robin Plourde, Alyssa Tarese Pompei, Kelsey Mary Laura Porter, Alyia Shanique Pothemont, Jill Lynn Power, Kelly Ann Quirion, Rachel Elaine Raleigh, Andrew Ivan Ratajczak, Victor Manuel Recinos, Courtney Elizabeth Rehmer, Nemesis A. Rivera Lopez, Shane Kenneth Roche, Jenna Lee Rodjenski, Theresa Ivette Rodriguez, Korina Romanauskas, Andrew William Rosado, Bethany Lynne Rosado, Brianna Theresa Rosado, Daniel Joseph Rosborg, Gilbert Roy, Ryan Douglas Roy, Rebecca Lyne Rusgrove, Valerie Emily Russo, Morgan Johnston Rzonca,
Gabrielle Sarah Sacharko, Jonathan Mayhew Salch, Alizha Jeaneira Sanchez, Raymond E. Sanchez, Guillermo Santos, Victoria Elizabeth Saravia, Zakary Ryan Sargent, Agata Felicja Sarna, Lauren Dominique Scerra, Ali Shahbaz, Ayisha Ann-Marie Shaw, Dalton Matthew Shields, David Steven Sills, Joseph Thomas Simpson, Allyson Lyn Sirois, Grzegorz Jerzy Skrzypek, Kenneth James Smith, Nicole Ann Spaulding, Rachel Elizabeth Sperduti, Molly Elizabeth Stadnicki, Taylor Nicole Starr, Emily Elizabeth Steck, Sonja Alexis Stokes, Michael Stypulkowski, Samuel Friday Suchinski, Joseph Xavier Taillon, Shanon Marie Taunton, Kayla Marie Theriault, Eric Michael Therrien, Dimerey Watson Thurston, Samantha Shanez Tirado, Vincent Edward Torello, Kelly Ann Toutain, Amber Marie Trahan, Patryk Ufniarz, Joshua Benjamin Unkrich, Brad Michael Urbanowicz,
Tamara Lynn Vermette, Anna Lyn Vertefeuille, Ivan Ernesto Viteri, Rachel Ann Waag, Savion Isaiah Wade, Daniel William Wagner, Bianca Robin Waite-Landrette, Ernest Manuel Wallace, Paul Emmenual Wehbe, Sean Michael Welch, Jeston Lamar White, Mikaila Williams, Jacob Joseph Wilson, Leah Rochele Winiarski, Meghan Winters, Monica Rae Wislocki, Sylvia Ann Woods, Brianna Marie Worthen, Samantha Erin Woznicki, Sarah Elaine Wrisley, Jourdon Matthew Wydra, Kacper Wyskiel, Destiny Marie Zayas, Amanda Jane Zdun
