Graduates
BRISTOL, R.I. --- Tyler Harriott graduates with the Roger Williams University Class of 2013. Tyler Harriott, a resident of Danielson, received a bachelor's in architecture during the University’s Commencement ceremony held on May 18, 2013.

Greetings. Now is the time for hearty soups and stews. This one is great for using leftover roast beef, whether it be spoon roast, pot roast, or prime rib – any kind is fine. A wonderful adaptation would be to use leftover roast lamb, which pairs beautifully with barley. Soaking the barley is not mandatory here, but soaking grains before cooking yields some health benefit.
Beef Barley Soup

2/3 cup barley
Rinse barley, and soak overnight in 4 cups water and 2 teaspoons salt. Rinse and drain barley. Reserve for soup.
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup finely chopped carrots
¾ cup finely chopped celery
1 large shallot, minced (about 1/3 cup)
½ cup dry white wine
6-8 cups beef stock
3 cups sliced mushrooms
3 cups chopped or shredded cooked beef
1½ tablespoons salt (less if stock contains salt)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
In a 5-quart stock pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add carrots, celery, and shallot. Turn heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Do not allow vegetables to brown.
Turn heat to medium-high. Add wine, and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes. Add 6 cups beef stock and bring to a boil. Add reserved barley. Turn heat to low and simmer gently until barley is tender, about ½ hour.
Add mushrooms, beef, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for another 15 – 20 minutes, adding more beef stock to attain desired consistency.

POMFRET --- Fire officials believe the fire that ripped through the First Congregational Church of Pomfret Dec. 7 was accidental and lean toward the fire being related to construction at the church. A dozen fire companies fought the fire, which began on the first floor. There were no injuries and the Pomfret School across the street offered its chapel to the congregation.
The church was founded in the 1700s and the church building that burned was built in 1850. Witnesses said the fire and heavy smoke appeared in the first floor.  The steeple collapsed into the sanctuary in less than an hour. Some computer records and personal property was saved from the back of the building which was not hit hard.