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Volunteer Spotlight: Harvey Dutil, former educator, is key part of Farmington Valley Relay For Life

  • jfitts0
  • Oct 27, 2020
  • 6 min read

By Ted Glanzer

Staff Writer


Let’s just get this out of the way right now. Farmington resident Harvey Dutil insists that he’s 80 years old, even when pressed for his real age.

He says he gets it a lot - that he looks at least 20 years younger than he really is, despite having battled cancer twice, colon cancer in the late 1990s and bladder cancer recently.

So you have to take Dutil, who was an educator in Farmington for decades, first as an elementary school principal, then as a third-grade teacher in the mid to late ‘90s before retiring, at his word.

Since his retirement, Dutil has been active as an indefatigable volunteer with the American Cancer Society, helping organize what’s now called the Farmington Valley Relay For Life, one of the biggest relays in the country.

The Farmington Valley LIFE talked to Dutil recently about his career, his health, why he moved to town and what keeps him so active within the relay community.

How are you doing?

I’m doing great all the way around. They removed my bladder, and there’s just a lot of follow up, I’ve got to have these X-rays, but I’m feeling fine and everything is all right.


Now you say you’re 80, I wouldn’t have guessed that at all.

I hear that a lot. [laughs] … I will send you a picture of my driver’s license.

Tell me about how you moved to Farmington?

I came to Farmington as principal of Noah Wallace School in 1976. I was principal there for nine years. Then I was principal at West District School for 10 years. Then my goal was to go back to my roots and go back to teaching. With five years to go before retiring, I had too much of the three Ps: parents, phone and paper. And not enough of the P that I went into the business for: pupils. So I went back to teach third grade for five years at East Farms School.


So you made the circuit in town, you only missed Union School for all the elementary schools in Farmington.

My wife [Judy] was teaching at Union at the time, so we had it all wrapped up.


Now forgive me, but do I detect a hint of a ‘New England’ accent?

I grew up in the state of Maine and I got my bachelor’s degree at what was then Gorham State Teachers College and then went up to get a master’s degree in educational administration at the University of Maine in Orono. Then after five years of doing that, I wanted to get a PhD and I was teaching at Gorham State. I had a choice to go back to the University of Maine or take an opportunity at the University of Connecticut.

And that’s what we did.


You’re not one of those horrible Red Sox fans are you?

I’m not really a baseball fan. I lost faith in baseball many years ago. I lost interest in baseball when they first went on strike.


What do you like about living here?

Farmington is a great community, great education system, a lot of nice people it’s close to Hartford for what’s going on here, and it’s close to the Berkshires or whatever. It’s a very nice community. A lot of caring people in this town.


What do you like to do when you aren’t volunteering.

I enjoy a good round of golf, but that doesn’t happen often. I enjoy sports, primarily football. UConn basketball, I enjoy watching women’s sports more than men’s sports. I do a lot of tinkering around, home repairs for my kids and friends. But to be honest with you, volunteering takes up a lot of my time.


What led you to start volunteering and is it just for the American Cancer Society?

We’ve done volunteering for other places, not so much for the last year or two, but we have a place up in Maine and we volunteer at the church up there and at the fuel bank. And here we volunteer with St. Patrick’s Church. I got involved with the American Cancer Society, I was retired and had been doing little odd jobs for realtors getting houses ready for the market. A friend who works at the American Cancer Society said you ought to volunteer. And I said what am I going to do? And at that time they ACS had these huge galas, $250-a-plate deals and the honorary chairs were Jim Calhoun and Geno Auriemma. He said you like UConn sports, you can maybe help out with the committee. They need someone with a logistical bent, and so I did that for five years. Then they stopped doing the gala, and from there I started doing work with a program Coaches vs. Cancer, and I traveled around the state to all the athletic directors and basketball coaches to run fundraising programs at a game or during the season.

I enjoyed that and I spent many days riding around the state in my truck by myself. Then 12 years ago, I went to Relay For Life in Farmington and I said, boy this is what I really want. This is dealing with real people, local people and it fits into my yearly plan and I can go to Maine and Florida. So 11 years ago I started with Relay for Farmington.


When did it switch over from Farmington to the Farmington Valley?

As it grew, it was Farmington then I focused on recruiting students and I contacted Avon and we got Avon High School involved and from there it went to Lewis Mills and from there it went to Canton and from there to Simsbury and we changed the name to reflect our greater participation. 


Why did you choose the ACS?

I was a cancer survivor at the time. I’ve had cancer twice. I had prostate cancer 25 years ago. My mother died of cancer. So there’s been cancer around me all my life. I was looking for something meaningful, so way of giving back to the community. So this just fit in nicely.


What’s your role for relay?

It pretty much encompasses much of the year. I’m the tri-chair, my major responsibilities are recruiting and it encompasses the whole year. When the Relay is over in May, generally, I don’t do a lot during the summer, but during the fall I start contacting principals and community organizations, setting up to do presentations to the students or organizations. In January and February, I’m putting together PowerPoints I’m going to use, and in February and March and April, I’m doing presentations for groups and after that I’m preparing for Relay.

My wife says it’s full time. It’s spread out through the year – a lot of contacts and presentations.


Where do you get the energy to do that?

I get energized by seeing people succeed. Helping a group of people, organize, raise money. … Seeing a group of people, kids or adults, get together and use some of the strategies or fundraising ideas I put out, and being successful, that’s what energizes me. That’s what keeps me going. That’s what I enjoyed being a principal. I enjoyed seeing teachers and kids be successful after something I had taught them or led them to.


How has the community responded to the Relay for Life’s efforts?

Absolutely fantastic. Ten years ago we raised $125,000 and every year since then it’s increased. In 2018 and 2019 out of 3,000 relays across the U.S. we were No. 4. In 2018 we raised $625,000 and in 2019, we raised $633,000. In the 20 years Farmington has had a relay, we’ve raised $5.18 million. The very first relay they raised $40,000. 


What do you say to the people who say the salaries at the ACS are too high or that not enough money goes to funding of research to find a cure?

Money goes to more than just an executive salary. My understanding is 78% of the money goes to programming. It’s more than research. It’s only one part of what the ACS does. They spend more money on patient services, which is providing rides and counseling for families and patients and that kind of thing. [Dutil explains the 23% of the funds raised go back into organizations like Relay for Life in East Hartford, which handles a lot of administrative tasks so other relays can function.]


The pandemic has affected virtually every event this year, Relay being no different. How do you feel about the modified event Relay held this year?

I think it was very successful. We had a drive-in style relay and to my knowledge it was the only one of the 3,000 across the country had that approach. Many held virtual relays. Our goal … was to somehow, somewhere have the event that honored survivors, recognized caregivers and honored people who worked to fundraise. We were determined to have it somewhere somehow. The only things I’ve heard were just phenomenal. It worked out real well. VL


 
 

Valley Happenings

‘Unionville Bars, Taverns & Spirits’

UNIONVILLE – Raise a glass and step back in time at the museum’s new exhibit, “Unionville Bars, Taverns & Spirits,” running through July 27. The museum is located at 15 School Street, Unionville and is open Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m.

The special exhibit highlights the nostalgic history of Unionville’s favorite gathering spots and watering holes, from past to present, showcasing historical artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia of the Unionville’s favorite past and present gathering spots. Learn about Prohibition, view a stunning collection of vintage 20th-century cocktail shakers and barware, and learn stories from the former Hotel Worthy, Unionville tavern and more.

The museum is also holding special presentations related to the exhibit:

• History Talk: Last Call: Unionville Bars, Taverns & Spirits - Sunday, June 1 – Dive into the details of the exhibit and learn more about local establishments, Prohibition, and related items from the collection. Exhibition Viewing (Noon-4 p.m.) Presentation with Question & Answer Session (1 and 3 p.m.)

• History Talk: Shaken Not Stirred – The Golden Age of Cocktails

Sunday, June 22 - Learn about the origins and influence of America’s favorite cocktails, shakers and the CT manufactures who made them. Exhibition Viewing (Noon-4 p.m.). Presentation with Question & Answer Session (1 and 3 pm)

Talks held next door at Old Methodist Church (23 School Street). Parking on street and Union School lot - Museum exhibit open 12 to 4 p.m. Limited seating for talks is on first come first serve basis. For more information visit the Museum’s website at unionvillemuseum.org or call 860-673-2231.

 

Connecticut Freedom Trail Dedication

AVON – The public is invited to the dedication of site #164 on the Connecticut Freedom Trail commemorating the life and service of Pvt. Leverett Holden, Avon resident and Civil War veteran of the 29th Connecticut Infantry Regiment, Colored. The dedication will take place on Monday, June 2, beginning at 6:30 pm at the East Avon Cemetery, 15 Simsbury Road, and continue with a program at 7 p.m. inside the historic sanctuary of The Avon Congregational Church, 6 West Main St. (The East Avon Cemetery is directly behind the Avon Congregational Church.)  The event is free and open to the public.

 

Friends of the Farmington Libraries June Book Sale

Just in time to stock up on books for summer reading and home libraries, the Friends of the Farmington Libraries are announcing a large book sale, to be held on Thursday, June 5 through Saturday June 7 at the main Farmington Library on 6 Monteith Drive.

The sale hours are: Thursday, June 5, Pre-Sale ($10 admission fee) from 10 am to 2 pm; Friday, June 6, from 9 am to 5 pm; Saturday, June 7, from 9 am to 2 pm, concluding with a bag sale ($10 per bag) from 2:30 pm to 5 pm.

Featured will be a large selection of children’s and adult fiction, both paperback and hardcover. Non-fiction topics will include history, biography, classic literature, home décor, gardening, cooking, art, entertainment, sciences, mathematics, self-help, and religion. There will also be reference materials, textbooks, games, puzzles, and a “Specials” section with higher price books.

The Friends are thankful for the continued support from Farmington and other local communities and ask that you take this opportunity to continue that support.  Funds from the book sales support year-round programming for children and adults (such as the very popular Maker Fair), the renovation of spaces within the library, museum passes and funds for staff members to attend conferences.

 

Simsbury Lions Club seeks volunteers

SIMSBURY – The Simsbury Lions Club is looking for people interested in volunteering and contributing to better our town. Our motto is “We serve,” and we do so by volunteering at local events and donating our proceeds to serving interests in our community.

If interested, please feel free to contact Sandy Kremer at Tprkremer@gmail.com or Philip Painchaud at painchaudp@gmail.com.”

 

New England Ballet Theatre

Presents La Sylphide

FARMINGTON – New England Ballet Theatre is thrilled to present the timeless classic La Sylphide on June 7 at 7 p.m. and June 8 at 2 p.m. at the Hacker Theater at Miss Porter’s School in Farmington.

Tickets are now available for purchase on our website.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.neballettheatre.com/la-sylphide.

 

Strawberry Festival June 14

North Canton Community United Methodist Church’s 73rd Strawberry Festival is on June 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to strawberry shortcake, a tag sale, plant sale, silent auction, burger and hot dog booth, and a homemade baked good sale will held. An early entry to the tag sale is at 9 a.m. with a $10 early entry fee. The church is on Route 179, five miles north of Route 44. Doors open and shortcake will be ready from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

‘Kodachrome’ captures the Heart of Small-Town Life and Love

COLLINSVILLE – Farmington Valley Stage Company is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of Adam Szymkowicz’s “Kodachrome,” a captivating new play that will run on June 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29, 2025. Set in the charming town of Colchester, Connecticut, this poignant play delves into the themes of love, nostalgia, and the bittersweet nature of farewells through the eyes of its unique narrator. Performances will take place at the Farmington Valley Stage Company, located in the Canton Town Hall Auditorium, 4 Market Street, Collinsville, CT. Tickets are available for purchase at www.FvStage.org

Avon Free Public Library events

AVON –The following events are scheduled at Avon Free Public Library. The library is at Avon Library, 281 Country Club Road, Avon. All programs are in person except where noted. For more information on adult programs, contact Adult Services Reference Desk via avonref@avonctlibrary.info 860-673-9712 x 7203. Registration required where noted.

•  (Virtual Event) Broadway on a Budget!. Friday, June 6, 2025 at 2 pm. Theater enthusiast Brian Stoll will discuss all things Broadway beginning with the history and importance of the Broadway Playbill as well as touch upon some of the reasons why audience members choose to collect these memorable theatre keepsakes. Lastly, Brian will share a variety of money-saving tips on how to see Broadway shows for under $60 a ticket!

• Connecticut Wineries with “The Nutmeg Nose” Thursday, June 12 at 6:30 p.m.- Take a virtual ride through Connecticut’s wine country and learn about our state’s 40+ wineries. Our wine guide is Michelle Griffis, an enthusiast of Connecticut’s wineries, nicknamed by friends as “The Nutmeg Nose.” Michelle will discuss the array of fantastic, award-winning wineries here in our state. She will also share dining options which include vineyards with on-site cafes, food trucks, and BYO picnic options.

 

At the Farmington Libraries

The following programs are offered by The Farmington Libraries. Except where noted, programs take place at the Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Dr. Register for programs at www.farmingtonlibraries.org.

• Grad Cap Decorating - Graduating High School? Stop by the Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Drive with your Graduation Cap on Monday, June 9 between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. to decorate it with our supplies. No registration is required.

• Sensory Sensitive Summer Reading Celebration - This special summer reading celebration is designed for families of youth with sensory needs who are not as comfortable in the crowded and noisy environment associated with the traditional summer reading kick-off event. Join us on Monday, June 16 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Drive to enjoy some summer-themed crafts and sensory play activities. No registration needed to attend this event.

• Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration – Adventure Awaits at The Farmington Libraries Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, June 18 from 5:30 to - 7:30 p.m. Bring your dinner, a blanket, and/or some lawn chairs, and join us outside while DJ Red Supreme spins music and leads dances. Paki Taco and Craftbird food trucks will be selling food on site. We will have a special visit from Dillon, the furry green mascot for the Hartford Athletic. There will also be lawn games and tables with activities for all ages!  No registration is required. In the event of inclement weather, the party will be moved indoors.

• Garmany Music Series: Ranendra Das - On Saturday, June 21 at 11 a.m. at the Farmington Library, 6 Monteith attend a concert performance specializing in Indian Classical and Western Classical music. Ranendra Das is an incredible performer with that truly connects with the audience. Register at www.farmingtonlibraries.org.

• Flicks & Family - Get out of the heat and join us for a special summer movie on Monday, June 30 at 2:30 p.m. at the Barney Library, 71 Main St. Feel free to bring a blanket or pillow to sit on, water to drink, and light snacks. See what’s showing at www.farmingtonlibraries.org.

 

Tunxis Seniors Citizens meeting

The Tunxis Seniors Citizens Association will hold their monthly meeting on Monday, June 9, at the Community Center, 321 New Britain Avenue, Unionville. We will begin at 1:30 with our traditional introduction then we be entertained by an astounding and uplifting magician who gives people hope through the art of magic. David Reed-Brown of Enlighten Entertainment Magic, Magician, author Director and Instructor of McBride’s Magic & Mystery School, Las Vegas. For more information, call 860-675-2490.

 

Solo Agers Connect Coffee Social

FARMINGTON – This monthly coffee social on the fourth Saturday of each month brings solo agers – those over 50 aging alone – together for coffee, conversation, and community. The next one is June 28. Held at 10 am at Bridge Healing Arts Center, 304 Main St, Farmington, CT. RSVP appreciated. Visit https://soloagersconnect.com/events/ or call 860-930-3253.

 

New Monument to be unveiled

On June 19, 2025 at 10am, the Alex Breanne Corporation in Collaboration with Simsbury Historical Society and the Town of Simsbury will be unveiling a new monument at Simsbury Cemetery honoring a historic black couple and their family. Their names are Peter and Esther Jackson. In the mid 1770’s, Peter was said to have been brought to Simsbury from Barbados in trade for a Native American enslaved man. In the early 1780s, Peter married Esther Wallace, the daughter of a Simsbury enslaved man named London Wallace. London fought in the French & Indian War and had 3 sons (and a son-in-law) who all fought in the Revolutionary War. In later years, 7 of Peter and Esther’s grandsons would enlist and fight in various Civil War Colored Regiments (4 in the Connecticut 29th, 2 in the Rhode Island 14th, and 1 in the Massachusetts 54th). Six of these men died while at war, their bodies never making it back to Connecticut. Peter Jackson died in 1810, drowning in Salmon Brook, but Esther would live until 1857, dying at age 93. Esther was one of the early members of Simsbury Methodist Episcopal Church, having been a member for nearly 50 years on her death. It is said that she walked the 2 miles from her home to church 12 days prior to her death.

In preparation for next years 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this new monument will honor this heroic black family from Simsbury, as well as list all 12 members of the family who fought in the various wars that established our country. Organizers also commissioned an artist who will unveil a reimagined portrait of what Esther looked like based on images of 3 of her Great Granddaughters.

The event is being held in historic Eno Memorial Hall in Simsbury. This is a building that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. visited often during the summer of 1944 while he was here for the summer as a teenager. In this building, Dr. King would watch movies seated with young white children, something he could not do in the south. After the ceremony, participants will walk across the street to Simsbury Cemetery to officially dedicate our new monument to the Jackson/ Wallace Family. A reception will be held after the event, sponsored by the Simsbury Historical Society. This is a free event. The registration link is https://www.simpletix.com/e/peter-and-esther-jackson-memorial-dedicati-tickets-214522

 

Paddling film festival

World Tour Paddling Film Festival - A fundraiser for the Farmington River Watershed Association. Friday, June 20, 7 p.m., Brewery Legitimus. To find tickets, visit https://www.collinsvillecanoe.com/ and click on annual paddling film festival under the Calendar of Events tab.

 

Luke Roux Foundation to host

wiffle ball tournament

The Luke Roux Foundation will host a Wiffle Ball Tournament at the Little League Fields in Farmington on Saturday, June 21. Team check in is at 8:30 a.m. and game play begins at 9 a.m. Registration fee is $150 for up to 6 players per team, age 17+.

Register by June 4 at www.lukeroux.com/tournament. Proceeds benefit the foundation.

 

Alzheimer’s Support

Hearts, Hugs & Hope: An Alzheimer’s Support Group offered June 19, 6 p.m. at Farmington Station Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, 111 Scott Swamp Road, Farmington. If you plan to attend, contact Director of Compass Programming Katherine Jedynasty at kjedynasty@farmingtonslr.com.

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