Get Happy With It!

By the People . . . For the People Serving Central Connecticut www.peoplespressnews.com

Wallingford Flower & Gift Shoppe

190 Center Street. 203.265.1514 April 2009 • Volume 9, Issue 114

The Meriden Daffodil Festival is almost here! It blooms on April 25 and 26th! The photo above was taken by Ernie Larsen. Look for the story and information on the Festival on Page 13!

Bobbie’s Bevy of Beauties!

Believe it or not I wrote this first paragraph on November 1, 2008. Maybe I thought it would help push this coming miserable winter season along. Every time I shoved my periscope up through the frozen ground sleet and snow seemed to be everywhere. And those terrible howling winds along with those very cold temperatures. Would have preferred my return to be in April instead of March. But my hiatus was interrupted by two people and a dog. So here I am again. I didn't realize Andy was so anxious for me to begin my articles for The People's Press until I returned from my annual hibernation. There he was looking down at me after he, Jimmy and LitlBit uncovered me from my bed of peat moss under the park bench at the end of the back yard. He could have said he was happy to see me but instead said "get up and start writing." Also Jimmy was very glad. His daily chores had come to an end. I was here to begin them once again. LitlBit kept licking my face so thrilled because I returned knowing that now he would have four very long walks daily instead of the short ones with his daddy. Then he would lay on the deck in the sun for awhile. If a very cloudy or cold day instead he would come into the house right away and play with Jimmy and his stuffed toys. When LitlBit was ready for his nap he would jup up into his daddy's lap in the recliner. He does prefer his to mommies's because it's so much bigger. Then the two of them would snooze away a good part of the day. Well enough of the going ons during my hibernation. Anyone who doesn't read my monthly articles from April-November would think I have lost it. Could be. There's that fun chore of cleaning up the yard from the mess the winter months leave. Of course you could pay someone to help or do it for you instead. Sounds like a good idea. Finally

some flowers. The crocus showing a very colorful display. Even a few daffodils in full bloom. Shortly the rest of the spring bulbed flowers will be following suit. Wait until there's a certainty of no more frost. If the weather cooperates probably toward the end of March or beginning of April. Then cut back your grass plants. And the butterfly bush cut down to two or three feet. And I'm hoping by the next issue it will be warm enough so my next door neighbor Pam will be able to have her yearly bed of pansies planted. She has such a gorgeous display. It's too bad they can't stay in bloom until the fall. Think they are one of the prettiest and most colorful of the annuals. Have a few purple myrtle vine flowers and some Johnny-jump-ups greeting spring. Well that's about it from my first article. But I do have a couple of P.S.s. Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien P.S. Happy birthday wishes to our only grandson Kevin Jr. who lives in New Hampshire who will turn 23 on April 17th. Love always, Grammie and Grampie Grammie Bobbie apologizes to our youngest granddaughter Izzy-Bella for stating in the March issue that she was 5 on January 3rd instead of being 6 years old. My head must have been on backwards when I wrote that. Gump Jimmy and I are very proud of you being only in kindgarten and two days a week she goes to second grade for a reading class. Keep up the good work. I would also like to mention that Izzy-Bella attends Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. Our son, oldest daughter and youngest daughter, (her mother), were all students there. It's been an association of 46 years. And a very good one.

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Page 2 April 2009

Gettysburg - A history lover's dream!!

Happy Birthday

By Matt Reynolds

Happy 6th Birthday Shaunessy! We hope you had a great time with all of your family and friends. Love, Mommy and Daddy

Little Round Top In this historic year in United States history ( inauguration of Barack Obama ) I can think of no better way to celebrate it than a visit to Gettysburg, PA.. I recently had the pleasure of accompanying my brother and his family on a weekend trip there. The place absolutely oozes history everywhere you go and has so many battlefield memorials that you can't get to everything in one long weekend. The Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the best of it's kind in the world and includes the restored Cyclorama. The Cyclorama is a panoramic painting exquisitely and painstakingly restored to more than it's original glory. It shows in all it's glory Pickett's historic charge and " The high water mark of the Confederacy. " Never again would the South threaten the North on it's own soil. This was the brilliant General Robert E. Lee's last real offensive against the Northern Army of the Potomac led by the newly christened General George Meade. We hired a Gettysburg National Park Battlefield Guide to drive us around the battlefields and convey his extensive knowledge to us. It was well worth the time and effort. He showed us where the Connecticut soldiers fought and their memorial monuments. We also visited the grand opening of "The David Will's House and Museum" where Abraham Lincoln slept the night before his famous "Gettysburg Address" and also put the finishing touches on it! The highlight of our trip was a post breakfast walk of the route that the Confederate General Pickett's division took during their historic charge!! We saw where the most intensive fighting took place. Our trip was complete when we visited the Union memorials on top of "Little Round Top" and "Big Round Top". If you love history do yourself a favor and VISIT THIS PLACE!!!!!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Baby Girl We couldn't be prouder of you Can't believe your quince has finally arrived Good Luck and have a great time at the Aquaturf. We Love you with all of our Hearts Mom, Dad, Robert and Frankie. Pickett's Charge Looking back toward the Confederate Line at Seminary Ridge from the Union Line on Cemetary Ridge

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Page 3 April 2009

Mother’s Day Contest

Page 4 April 2009

Enter to win Mom a 1 night Relax-A Away at

We know your needs. Nope, we're not mind readers. We just pay attention. Hotel Services: Room Service Business Center Exercise Room/Facilities Golf Course Nearby Indoor Heated Pool The newly-renovated Four Points by Sheraton Meriden. With a central location at the crossroads of Connecticut, we’re in the middle of one of the fastest growing industrial parks in the state. Quinnipiac University, Yale University, Weslyan University, Gouveia Vineyards, and the Chevrolet (Oakdale) Theater are all a short drive away. Talk about cozy. Come and relax in our comfortable guest rooms featuring the Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort Beds. Or hang out in our newly-opened Yogi’s All American Grill & Sports Bar. Catch the game on one of 14 large or plasma screen TVs. Personal table speakers will make sure you don’t miss a minute of the action. Gather your friends and family and join in the NTN Trivia while enjoying a tasty treat from the family-friendly menu.

2 7 5 R e s e a r c h P a r k w a y, M e r i d e n ( 2 0 3 ) 2 3 8 - 2 3 8 0 There are 3 ways to enter this contest. 1. Fill out this contest form 2. Send in a story/submission 3. Send in a Mother’s Day Photo Wish.

Find this in 10 ads this issue and be entered to win! Fill out the Form completely and send it to: The People’s Press P.O. Box 4459 Yalesville, CT 06492 Attention: Mother’s Day Contest

If your entry is correct you will be entered into our drawing! Deadline for all entries is April 23, 2009. All subscribers to www.peoplespressnews.com are automatically entered when making a submission. Sign up today!

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Phone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AD #1: __________________AD #2:_________________ AD #3:___________________AD #4:_________________ AD #5:___________________AD #6:_________________ AD #7: __________________AD #8:_________________ AD #9: _________________AD #10:_________________ Limit One Entry Per Person Per Issue.. Members of DNA, LLC and Relations are not eligible to play. Drawing will be held May 5, 2009. Winner will be notified by phone and agrees to have photo and name published. Winner must pick up prizes from participating businesses.

Page 5 April 2009

MAYOR'S CORNER WALLINGFORD Dear Friends: April is the month of Earth Day which is celebrated on April 22nd. Earth Day was first celebrated in l970, the year the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was established. What once began as a day of national recognition of environmental concerns has evolved into a world wide campaign to protect our environment. One way you can protect our environment is to follow the slogan: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Reduce - Many residents are finding it easy to reduce the amount of electricity they use by replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Recycle - A composter will recycle your yard and food wastes into nutrient rich soil. Wallingford residents may take advantage of an EARTH DAY SPECIAL Composter Sale to be held on April 18, from 8 a.m. - Noon. Come to the Town Hall Carriage House (off Prince Street) with a CHECK for $20 made payable to "CRRA". Only checks will be accepted. Limited quantities are available. A composter will be on display during April on the 2nd Floor of the Town Hall. If you have any questions, please call Program Planning at 203-294-2061. Reuse - Another great way to help protect the environment is by reusing products. Save the date of May 16, 2009 for an Electronics Recycling Day to be held at North Haven Middle School from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. This free event is open to RESIDENTS of Cheshire, Hamden, Meriden, North Haven and Wallingford (no commercial electronics accepted). Residents may bring: computers (including monitors, keyboards, cabling and mice), printers, telephones, TVs, VCRs, copiers, fax machines, radios, stereos, camcorders and microwave ovens. Through everyone's efforts at home and throughout our community, we can help to reduce the environmental impacts which will affect our quality of life now and in the future. Remember: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor

SCC Honors Sheehan Scholar Leaders Mark T. Sheehan seniors Lisa Cheung and Stephanie DuBois were presented with the Southern Connecticut Conference Scholar Leader Award at a reception held on March 30. In order to qualify for this honor, a student must demonstrate academic excellence, be a leader in the community, and more importantly, serve as a model to others. Lisa is a dynamic young woman who constantly challenges herself academically. This is demonstrated through the enrichment activities in which she participates. These have included the Choate Summer Program; Star Talk: Discover Chinese Summer Academic Program; Yale Saturday Seminar; and Bristol Myers Squibb Summer Science Program. Lisa also has a great desire to give of herself to help others. She is a peer advocate, a member of Students Against Destructive Decisions, and a recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award. In addition, she is involved in school clubs and the athletic program. Lisa plans to attend Brown University where she will major in engineering. Stephanie is a young woman of intelligence and character. Her compassion toward her fellow students and the community sets her apart from her peers. She volunteers at the Ned Conley Open, the school's Red Cross Blood Drives, and her church's Sunday School program. She is also a peer tutor. In addition, Stephanie involves herself in both extracurricular and interscholastic activities, serving in a leadership role for many of the organizations in which she participates. She was named to the CHSCA Academic All-State 2008 Field Hockey Team and is a contributor to Visions, Sheehan's literary arts magazine. Stephanie is considering a major in psychology, English or medicine.

Enough Already.....

Mom - enough with the ears! Happy Easter. Mimi and Poppi

MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens' Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver's license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community CafĂŠ. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center! The Senior Center will host a program on "Reverse Mortgages: Financing Retirement and Long-Term Care" on Wednesday, April 8 at 10:30 AM with Steve Lamoreaux from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. According to Steve, your home is a financial asset, not just a place to live, and you can access some of your home equity without incurring a monthly repayment. You can tap some of the appreciated value built up in your house to better afford to live, pay bills, entertain, travel or save for future expenses. To learn more about how a Reverse Mortgage might be able to help you, plan to attend this free, no cost or obligation program on Wednesday, April 8 at 10:30 in the first floor meeting room at the Senior Center. On Tuesday, April 14 we invite you to bring your grandchildren/great grandchildren to the Senior Center for a music sing-a-long with Jill Riggles, lunch and bingo in a special "Grandchildren Day" during school vacation week. Karla and her staff will prepare a $2 lunch of hot dogs, chips, corn, pickles and dessert for school age children under 18. Please sign-up at the desk in Willene's Place. After lunch there will be a free bingo open to anyone, including the kids, with $5 gift cards to McDonald's as prizes. Please invite your grandchildren/great grandchildren and join us for this special intergenerational event on April 14! The Senior Center will recognize our volunteers in a Volunteer Recognition Program on Wednesday, April 15 at 11:15 AM in Willene's Place. The 2009 "Volunteers of the Year" will be announced to honor the members who have exemplified outstanding volunteer service to the Senior Center. Each volunteer will also receive a gift as a token of our appreciation and we thank all of our Senior Center volunteers for your help all year long! We will sponsor another six (6) week Creative Writing Class starting on Wednesday, April 22 at 1:00 PM with Susan Sandel, Ph.D. No prior writing experience necessary, for those who do write the class will provide tips for becoming more spontaneous. Classes will be held from Wednesday, April 22 to Wednesday, May 27 from 1:00 to 2:15 PM. People interested in taking this free Creative Writing Class are asked to sign-up in the Senior Center Office or call us at 237-0066. The Senior Center will host a Community Forum for Cancer Survivors on Wednesday, April 22 from 1:00 - 2:30 PM. A free deli lunch will be provided by Paul's Market and a free raffle drawing will be held. The meeting will help cancer professionals learn how to improve their services to meet your needs. Co-sponsored by the Meriden Health Department and limited to the first 20 people who sign-up in the Senior Center front office or call 237-0066. Your input is very important and will help determine future programs and services. I would like to thank everyone who generously contributed to help me raise $330 for the 2009 Walk for Warmth on March 7. Contributors included AARP Chapter 2954, Military Whist players, Diana Naimo, Joan Hesse, Helen Rossi, Lillian Semolic, Dorothy Ritchie, June Salay, Susan Crowther, Vicki Hettrick, Henrietta Sulik, Rich & Joan Hamel, Ann Cherney, Becky Racine, Ed Cortright, Ruth Kahn, Wendy Ortiz, Ron DeJohn, Ruth Kusek, Edith & Joe Manley, Gloria Despres, Ruth Fink, Fran Daly, Norman Landsburg and Kay Janiga. Thank you for your care and concern for people in need in the City of Meriden. John F. Hogarth-Senior Center Director

Meriden Rotary Club Golf Tournament The 12th Annual Corporate Classic Golf Tournament sponsored by the Meriden Rotary Foundation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Hunters' Golf Course in Meriden The premier event includes 18 holes of golf with lunch before a shotgun start, cocktail reception, dinner, gift pack, personalized program, auction, and prizes. The Meriden Rotary Club has used the money raised from the tournaments, as well as its other events, to support initiatives in the Meriden community, including: Drug Awareness Resistance Education (DARE) for elementary schools, Noah's Ark of Hope, Inc. for a barrier free playground, Project Dictionary for all 3rd graders in Meriden schools, Soap Box Derby, Beat the Street, Spirit of Giving, Rotary Career Center at the Meriden Public Library, Meriden Boys and Girls Club library, Citizenship awards for high school students, Rotary computer center at Girls Inc, and youth leadership. Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfers are also encouraged to sign up. For information, visit the Meriden Rotary Club website at www.meridenrotary.org and contact Tournament Director Pam White by calling 203-238-7028 or email golf@meridenrotary.org.

Page 6 April 2009

For Anniversaries , Promotions, Engagements, Odd Stories, Weddings and more! Email to andy@peoplespressnews.com

It’s New - It’s Page 6

For Anniversaries , Promotions, Engagements, Odd Stories, Weddings and more! Email to andy@peoplespressnews.com

WALLINGFORD CPA EARNS EXCLUSIVE CREDENTIAL AS FINANCIAL FORENSICS EXPERT David J. Grindle, certified public accountant (CPA) and a manager at Konowitz, Kahn & Company, PC., has fulfilled the requirements and qualifications as prescribed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) to hold and use the certification Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF). Mr. Grindle, a Wallingford resident, is also a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) as granted by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. He is a specialist in the detection and deterrence of a wide variety of white-collar crimes, ranging from discovering employees or executives who misappropriate company assets to assisting investors who are defrauded in the course of commercial transactions. The CFF credential is exclusively granted by the AICPA to applicants in good standing who hold a valid state CPA certificate, with a minimum of five years of accounting practice experience. The candidate must complete a CFF application and meet the 100-point requirement and also sign a declaration of intent to comply with its recertification requirements. A graduate of Quinnipiac University, Mr. Grindle has 20 years of experience as a CPA and over 5 years investigating and exposing accounting fraud. He is frequently asked to speak at universities and colleges to students of accounting and law and to various business groups throughout the state. Konowitz, Kahn & Company, P.C. is a leading provider of accounting and business advisory services including accounting, auditing, tax, wealth management, business valuations, trust and estate accounting, forensic and litigation support, family office services, and cost segregation. The firm has been serving closely held mid-market businesses in diverse industries locally and globally since 1936 and operates out of offices in North Haven and Middlebury.

Wallingford Education Foundation Announces The 2009 Distinguished Alumni

They were spotted... This couple was spotted celebrating an anniversary which they refused to disclose the number. At least they smiled Obviously no names are necessary as they are well known. Happy Anniversary!

Six Were Honored The Wallingford Education Foundation honored six alumni of the Wallingford school system at its fifth annual Distinguished Alumni Dinner. The honorees are: - Robert and Lorraine Devaney - he is the retired postmaster in Wallingford with a long list of community activities, and she is chair of the Wallingford Public Celebrations Committee - Jerry Farrell, Jr. - an attorney, Wallingford Town Council and Republican Town Committee member, currently Connecticut's Commissioner of Consumer Protection - Kathleen Murphy - president of Personal Investing, a unit of Fidelity Investments, the largest mutual fund company in the U.S. and former CEO of ING's U.S. Wealth Management - Jon-Paul Venoit - president of Masonicare at Ashlar Village and current Chair of the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce - Elizabeth Verna - principal with Verna Properties, LLC in Wallingford The announcement was made by David Baker, Chairman of the Foundation. To date, twenty-five Wallingford alumni have been honored. "It's a very meaningful evening, not only to the recipients of the award, but to their families, former teachers, colleagues and friends," says Baker. Superintendent of schools, Dale Wilson, notes, "The Wallingford School System has produced extraordinary graduates who have gone on to all kinds of professional and community achievements." The Wallingford Education Foundation is committed to enhancing public education opportunities for town students that help prepare them to meet the challenges of a changing global society. It raises funds to underwrite major projects as well as mini-grants for special teacher-initiated projects which fall outside the scope of the school budget. The dinner was held on March 20th.

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON IS PROUD TO SPONSOR PAGE 6

Spring Break - Great Rate!

Army Pvt. Erin C. Lamb has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Ft. Jackson, Columbia, SC. She is the daughter of Valerie Lamb of Wallingford and Kevin Lamb of Hamden. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, core values and traditions. Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman. Lamb graduated in 2008 from Mark T. Sheehan High School, Wallingford.

They were spotted... Last Saturday, spotted at a cocktail table at Yogi's All American Grill & Sports Bar were two couples celebrating their 18th wedding anniversay! Local DJ Harry Gambardella and his wife Janice, along with Quinto and Tammy DiMattia.

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Enjoy only the best with your family this April Vacation!

The Four had met 18 years ago as they were boarding the same honeymoon cruise! Quinto and Tammy noticed Harry's Bag from the travel agency that said "MERIDEN" , and the two couples chatted in line. They proceeded to get together a few times on the cruise and exchanged numbers so they could get together when back home in Meriden. Over the years, the couples have remained friends, and they uncovered some interesting coincidences. There weddings took place on the same day at the exact same time! (During the Gambardella's ceremony, a family member of the DiMattia's walked into the wrong church...saw Janice and realized his mistake!) Not only did they book the same cruise for their honeymoon, but they used the same travel agent! Now 18 years later, the foursome remain good friends. Each couple are parents to two children; Brooke and Nick Gambardella and Michael and Jason DiMattia. Harry and Janice are the Godparents of Jason. Congratulations to all on 18 Happy years of Marriage and 18 years of friendship!

Page 7 April 2009

Governors Budget Targets your Public Health We are all acutely aware of financial difficulties faced by many of our family members, neighbors and friends. We also recognize governmental financial constraints and the need to evaluate spending. Under the Governor's proposal, state funding for public health would no longer be provided to 77 municipalities, including Wallingford, Southington and Meriden. And funding for the remaining municipalities would be drastically cut. Now is the time to be heard. Contact your state legislators. We can not afford to cut programs that help ensure your health and safety. Prevention IS more affordable then a visit to the emergency room. Under the Governor's proposal, everyone should think twiceabout the safety of the food you eat about the safety of the water you drink about the safety of your child's daycare about the safety of the public pool and public bathing areas you swim in about the uncontrolled spread of a disease outbreak in your community about the new and emerging infections that will go undetected about potential groundwater contamination from failing septic systems An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure. Your public health and safety is worth more then the current $1.18/per capita. Eliminating it will cost much more. Eloise Hazelwood, RS, MPH - Director of Health - Town of Wallingford

WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA PRESENTS JUNIOR LIFEGUARD PROGRAM OVER APRIL VACATION This program is for swimmers ages 11-14. Topics covered will be personal survival skills, rescue skills and an introduction to lifeguarding. Class will meet Monday-Thursday, April 20-23 from 4-5:15PM. Community fee is $60. Call 203 269 4497 to register. For more information ask for Keith Cargan. Come learn and have fun!

SOUTHINGTON CLASS OF 1984 25TH REUNON 11/28/09 - AQUA TURF CLUB Please contact Gina Ferracci Pellegrino ginapellegrino@sbcglobal.net for more information.

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Connecticut Outdoors By Paul Narducci Thomas Spinning Lures Celebrates 60 Years As I sit down to write this article I am already wondering off thinking of opening day and the trout I hope to catch. For me trout fishing is completely different and the fish themselves are with out a doubt some of the most beautiful and intriguing fish around. There are fond memories forever etched in my mind of the rainbow that got away and the ones that didn't. Trout fishing is something I truly love to do and wish I was able to do more of. As we head into April and the opening day of fishing (April 18) I can only think of one thing, Thomas Spinning Lures. I say this because I have caught so many wonderful and exciting fish on these lures. Thomas Spinning Lures was one of my original sponsors and continues to sponsor us today. Thomas Spinning Lures is celebrating 60 years of being an incredible lure company with an outstanding history. Richard Shubert, the original owner started making lures in 1948. He moved his company in 1958 to Hawley, Pennsylvania and they still occupy the same buildings today. For me I really appreciated the loyalty of the company and the history this creates. In 1985 Mr. Shubert retired and the company was purchased by Peter Ridd. I have worked with Thomas Lures since the beginning of my show in 1994. They have sponsored local fishing derbies we have been involved with and continue to see the importance of getting the youth of today involved in the great outdoors. They are truly a fantastic company with a great understanding of the importance of giving back to the community and the youngsters in it. Peter Ridd employs about ten people and produces nearly half-million lures yearly. He continues to use Mr. Shubert's original designs and shapes but has added more color patterns and selections to meet today's fisherman's needs. For 60 years they have offered American made fishing lures at reasonable prices. I recently spoke to Peter for about 45 minutes and was inspired to write this article after talking with him about his company and the history of it. This is truly a great American story. After sharing some fishing stories it was great to drift back in time and talk about the fish we've caught and the lures we used. Some of my favorite lures they make are the e.p.spinn, buoyant, rough rider, Colorado, Double spinn and the Special Spinn. Some lures you may not be familiar with that work great for trout are the Little Tiger, Eel, Fighting Fish and the Speedy Shiner. Whether you spend your day trout fishing from shore or trolling these lures will offer you an excellent opportunity to catch some wonderful trout. Some areas you may want to try this year for trout are Wharton Brook, Black Pond, Quinnipiac River, Salmon River and of course Bashan Lake. Thomas Spinning Lures is a great success story of a small company that continues to thrive even in the harshest of times. They have and will continue to offer all fisherman the opportunity to fish with lures that truly catch fish of all kinds. If you have any questions you can log onto www.thomaslures.com or email them at info@thomaslures.com As always Paul, Tony, Frank, Joe and Jonathan would like to wish everyone the best of luck and good fishing !

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club is now taking Summer Camp registrations. Camp starts on June 29, 2009 and ends August 21, 2009. The camp runs eight one week sessions starting at 8 AM and ending at 5 PM each day. Call for information at 203-269-7525 or stop by Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club 72 Grand Street, Wallingford, CT and pick up applications. Limited Spaces.

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Page 8 April 2009

Celebrate National Infant Immunization Week! National Infant Immunization Week 2009 will be honored the week of April 25-May 2. In recognition of the week, the Meriden Health Department will be distributing free gift bags with books, immunization information and other goodies to daycares and moms in the well-child and W.I.C. (Women, Infants, and Children) clinic starting Monday April 27. Gift bags are available on a first come, first serve basis. In addition, activities are scheduled from 9am-12pm throughout the week, including story time (April 27) and craft projects (April 28 and 30) at the Meriden Health Department. National Infant Immunization Week is an annual observance to promote the benefits and safety of immunizations and to focus on the importance of immunizing infants against vaccine-preventable diseases by age two. Immunizations are one of the most important ways parents can protect their children against 14 diseases before age two, the time when infants and young children are most vulnerable to infectious diseases. As of January 1998, all children born in Connecticut were enrolled in a confidential immunization tracking program called CIRTS. If parents have questions regarding their child's immunization record or vaccine safety, they can contact Ana Guajardo, Immunization Coordinator, at 630-4251. The Meriden Health Department offers immunization services to Meriden children Monday-Friday from 9 am4pm. Vaccines are free for Meriden children birth through high school. Children not from Meriden (ages birth to 6) are vaccinated for free; children not from Meriden ages 7 to 19 are charged $20.00 per injection. For immunization appointments please call 630-4234.

ALLERGY PROGRAM APRIL 29 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library is pleased to host Dr. Denise Kearney on Wednesday, April 29 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room for a program on "Spring Allergies." The audience will be encouraged to ask questions during the program. Dr. Kearney joined the Center for Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology located in Waterbury and Cheshire, CT in August, 2006 after completing a subspecialty fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at the University of South Florida, College of Medicine. She received her medical degree at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed an internal medicine internship and residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, New York. She is board certified in allergy and immunology and internal medicine, and she is a member of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the Connecticut Allergy Society, the New England Allergy Society, and serves on the editorial board of the publication Connecticut Medicine. Dr. Kearney is an attending physician at both Waterbury and St. Mary's hospitals, and serves as an outpatient consultant for Midstate Medical Center in the Cheshire allergy office. Dr. Kearney, a Cheshire native, is especially interested in women's medical issues, particularly bone health, nutrition and Eastern medicine. In her free time, Dr. Kearney enjoys practicing yoga, swimming, gardening, and reading. The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 to reserve a seat.

The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club will be hosting its 3rd Annual "Oldies Dance" and dinner The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club will be hosting its 3rd Annual "Oldies Dance" and dinner on May 2nd, starting at 6:00 pm at the Elk's Lodge in Wallingford. All the proceeds from the Dinner Dance will benefit programs at the Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club. The dance will include a cash bar, a buffet dinner prepared by the "Wishing Well" and dancing with music provide by "Local Motion". Featuring music from the 50's and 60's and door prizes given out throughout the evening. Tickets are $25.00 per person and must be purchased in advance. There are a limited number of tickets, so do not wait until the last moment to buy yours. For information or reservations, call the Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club at (203) 269-7535 or go online at www.bgcawallingford.org.

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203-4 440-9 9990

It’s easy to enter. Send a photo wish in any of the next 3 issues and you will be entered into the contest. You may also send 1 photo wish for each of the issues covering the contest May, June and July 2009. The drawing will be held on July 6th and the prize will be presented on July 10th. Winner agrees to be photographed at time of prize presentation.

Congratulations Brian and Tanya on your engagement! Love, the Fam!

Filipek’s Kielbasa For Easter Day or Any Day!

Mother’s Day & CELEBRATIONS

Free Photo Form

Don’t forget to send Mom a special wish! Happy Mothers Day! Happy Mother’s Day to the sweetest Mom in the whole wide world! I know your day is going to be very special for you since you are sthe best! Love, Karrie and John

Message: ________________________________________ ________________________________________ Due to space - messages are limited to the 2 lines above. Your Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Phone # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Signature: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ If you would like the photo returned to you, please enclose a self addressed stamped envelope! We do not publish the last names of any photo submissions. Send to:The People’s Press, P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492

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Deadline for our next issue is April 25th. The People’s Press P.O. Box 4459 Yalesville, CT 06492 Attention Celebrations and Mother’s Day Photos

We offer everything for a perfect meal!

*Smoked and Hot Kielbasa * Pierogies * Kellies * Summer Sausage * American Breakfast Sausage

* Italian Sausage Mild, Sweet and Hot * Horseradish * Golomki * Old Style Dried Italian Sausage & More.

262 Elm St., Meriden 237-3488

Page 9 April 2009

Maggie's Corner By: Maggie Griffin Definition of Courage Cour´age Pronunciation: kur´ãj; 48 - Webster Dictionary: n. 1. The heart; spirit; temper; disposition. So priketh hem nature in here corages. - Chaucer. My lord, cheer up your spirits; our foes are nigh, and this soft courage makes your followers faint. - Shak. 2. Heart; inclination; desire; will. I'd such a courage to do him good. - Shak. 3. That quality of mind which enables one to encounter danger and difficulties with firmness, or without fear, or fainting of heart; valor; boldness; resolution. The king-becoming graces . . . Devotion, patience, courage, fortitude, I have no relish of them. - Shak. Courage that grows from constitution often forsakes a man when he has occasion for it. - Addison. v. t. To inspire with courage; to encourage. As all of us can see, COURAGE is defined in several ways in the Dictionary. However, depending on circumstances, it takes courage to get through the most hardest times. I myself feel courage is defined as not having fear to face a challenge, but peace of mind to remember that All it takes is a dream and Courage to make it happen. When I look up into the sky, I think about Heaven. When I see tides of the water at a calm, I think about peace. When my feet walk land, I kneel & thank GOD for a new day. After God says to me, through the sound of silence; "You Are Welcome" , I realize through silence, GOD and his Angels can talk to us in their own way. I am given the courage to take 12 more steps along the shore at the beach, where the water tides meet the sand, as far as I can reach. Then when I get my feet wet, I do not mind at all; because It reminds me I am still here standing tall. As I spoke to Dr. William A. Petit, Jr., Dr. Petit touched my heart when he defined the meaning of courage. In his own words; - "I suspect that there are many definitions - like the one that my youngest daughter had on her FaceBook page, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world.- M. Gandhi. I start and then stop and then re-start nearly everyday since July 23, 2007. I hope that courage is not the lack of fear - but the ability to move forward in spite of your fears. In moving forward you then can do as Gandhi suggested and try to be the change." - Dr. William A. Petit, Jr. Through so many humanitarian efforts and beliefs, it takes courage to help one another too. That is where the word ENCOURAGE comes in. If we can Encourage someone, no matter what it is, we are actually giving the gift of Courage, a gift that they know will empower their hearts, minds and souls. We are living in a world of unjustifiable meaning, But how can anything be justified, explained or understood. Many say they "understand", but do they? It takes COURAGE to understand. It takes COURAGE to justify the unjustifiable. It takes COURAGE to explain how we truly feel inside when we are faced with the unexpected. In today's society, we live by routine. But it is ok to break our routine once and a while and take the moment to listen to the words that silence gives to us. If for one day, everyone can take the time and listen to the silence, they will hear that time well spent by their choice, will bring an Attitude of Love. Life presents us with challenges, detours, and stumbling blocks as we live each and every day. Wherever there's an obstacle, that we must rise above, COURAGE helps us overcome it with an Attitude of Love. Sometimes we may feel ourselves misguided and fully "out of sync". But when we have courage; courage makes us think. I myself have come across falls and reasons that make me cry. I've come across people who will make negative remarks to someone about me, where in the end they are sorry while I watch them cry. But Courage brings to us a fresh new day, a chance for a new beginning, better then the day before. Every day is a new experience, but there is one thing to keep in mind. By having the gift of COURAGE, we can make a difference to many, no matter if the trials, trivias and unexpected are Big or Small. *This Column is in Dedication to Dr. William A. Petit, Jr. If you have any questions or requests of Maggie - please email them to andy@peoplespressnews.com

East Haven $225,000 Cosey Beach is only a walk from this 6 rm remod. home. Welcoming LR w/wood floors, classic DR, E.I. kit. Private parking, entertaining yard & more. Maggie Griffin X307

East Haven

$239,900 Great starter in excellent condition. Lg. country kit., formal LR w/fireplace, den off kit, HW floors, new furnace & roof. Priv. yard w/screened patio. 2 sep. garages offers space for business, storage, collector. Nice family area. Chuck X 302

East Haven $244,900 Gorgeous 2 BR Townhouse in impeccable condition in desirable Morgan Pt. area. Gleaming HW flrs in LR/DR combo. LR w/gas FP and SGD to Exp deck w/awning. Large MBR, formal DR, CAIR. 1 car gar rear of complex. Call Chuck X302

Come To the Writing Table Written by Carol Carbutti of Comfort Keepers of Wallingford A writing group had invited me to their weekly writing session at an assisted living facility and I found myself excited about the possibilities. I had no idea what to expect but I hoped the experience would challenge my creative juices. My numerous journals and collections of creative pieces that I've laboriously saved through the years were in boxes and bags everywhere. I attempted to rummage through them to choose what I might bring to the group to share. As I drove up to this well appointed comfortable looking building, I fantasized about meeting a small group of elderly people who may not be too happy about an outsider attending their inner circle. I knew that a writing group sets up a trust within their fellow members and I wondered how I would fit in. The large group comfortably encircled a table in a library sitting room. They were just beginning the process of passing a copy of their latest writing around the table to each writer. When everyone had the paper in hand , the writer happily shared the idea or muse that prompted the creation of their piece. I was introduced and kindly accepted by being handed the latest presenter's paper. As the soft spoken elderly woman read her beautiful poem on the arrival of autumn, I was inspired by the powerful and colorful image her concise well appointed words had created in my mind. She was asked to read it again and many of us listened the second time with our eyes closed and smiles slowly curling our lips. We responded to the images , thoughts, and feelings the poem elicited from us and that sharing extended a magical band around us. We compared those images to each others and found a common ground. The writing wand passed gently to each member of the group, who were given great respect for their writing attempts Our creative fancy was tickled that day and when we all had completed our journey around the table, we were assured we would be welcomed by this group of comrads next week. Seniors need to exercise their minds and spirit often in order to participate in the healthy aging process. Search your senior resources such as libraries, senior centers, assisted living facilities, adult education , community colleges, online, and friends for writing groups to join. Another possibility would be to organize a writing group of your own. Whatever creative venture you seek to participate in , it will help to keep you young, thinking and interacting.

Spring 2009 Golf Leagues of Wallingford The Spring 2009 Golf Leagues of Wallingford start on Thursday, April 16. The AM golf league runs for 10 weeks ending on June 18. Starting times begin at 9AM. The PM league runs for 16 weeks ending on July 30. Starting times begin at 4:15PM. The nine-hole, coed, adult golf leagues, held at the Tradition Golf Club at Wallingford, highlight fun special events with prizes and an awards gathering at the end of both leagues. The leagues have no set foursomes encouraging new playing partners each week. Organizational meetings will take place on Thursday, April 9 at 9AM for the AM league and 4:15PM for the PM at the Tradition Golf Club. Fees for the leagues include green fees, carts and prizes. The fee for the AM league is $235 for residents, $240 for non-residents, $120 for Tradition Season Pass holders. The fee for the PM league is $370 for residents, $375 for non-residents, $190 for Tradition Season pass holders. Enrollment is limited to the first 36 golfers. For more information please call Elaine Doherty at 203. 265.7349

Easter Plant Sale Sponsored by Lincoln Middle School PTSL Tulips Daffodils Hyacinths, Easter Lilies, Colored Lilies, Hydrangea, Azaleas, Mums Saturday April 11th 2009 8:00 am - 12:00 noon I conceive that the land belongs to a vast family of which many are dead, few are living, and countless numbers are still unborn. ~A Chieftan from Nigeria

New Haven

$145,000 Enjoy water views from this 1 BR condo with C/A, patio, MBR with walk-in closet, security system. Close to shopping and minutes from Yale. Jean X 306.

West Haven $119,900 Great for starter, or downsizing. Condo alternative! Lovely ranch style, 1 BR home features LR, DR/Poss FR or can be used as second BR, large EIK, laundry room w/washer/dryer hookups & more. Carol X310

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Page 10 April 2009

Suburbia is where the developer bulldozes out the trees, then names the streets after them. ~Bill Vaughn, quoted in Jon Winokur, The Portable Curmudgeon, 1987

Programs and Events from Wallingford Public Library Adventure, nostalgia, health, entertainment, education and a superb collection of popular fiction, nonfiction, reference materials, newspapers and magazines await you at the Wallingford Public Library this month. All of our programs are free and open to the public. Please contact the library for more information: 203-365-6754 or www.wallingford.lioninc.org Explore Peru: Amazon and the Andes, on Thursday, April 23rd at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Room. Whether you are an armchair traveler or you've got your bags packed and ready to go, don't miss this month's travel program. Guest speaker Javier Chung is a native Peruvian who has been a tour organizer of adventure, eco-tours, and specialty travel to Latin America. Join us for a presentation on traveling to the Amazon and the Andes: what to expect and how to budget and schedule the trip of a lifetime! Wallingford 1930's: A Look back through the Camera: Saturday, April 11th at 2:00 p.m. in the Community Room A DVD presentation of an original 16mm film featuring Wallingford residents and local businesses such as Jones Auto Sales, First National Bank, Wallingford Bank and Trust, Jack's Texaco, Rose's Bus Service and local schools and churches. Maybe you or your loved ones are captured on film! Come and see if you can identify the people and places from Wallingford's past! HEALTH PROGRAMS Lunch & Learn: Got Balance? Tuesday, April 7th at 11:30 a.m. in the Community Room Masonicare and the Wallingford Public Library present: Got Balance? with Marc Risigo, Senior Occupational Therapist, Masonic Health Center. Join us for a complimentary light lunch and learn how a serious fall can negatively impact function, confidence, and quality-of-life. Information on fall prevention, including simple balance strategies, will be discussed. Please make your reservation by contacting the Library. Dessert and a Doc with MidState Medical Center: Staying Abreast of Your Breast Cancer Risk, Tuesday, April 21st at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room Kathy Clements, RN and Rajani Nadkarni, MD present an important program on women's health. Are you at risk for breast cancer? Would you know if you were? Dr. Nadkarni and Kathy Clements will discuss the hereditary factors that put women at risk for breast cancer. They will give an overview of MidState's Risk Assessment Clinics, which help identify high-risk women in the Community, thus enabling them to take steps toward prevention. Please contact the Library to register. Refreshments will be served. Special Collection of Art Books for Sale The Wallingford Public Library Association will sponsor a special book sale featuring items donated from the estate of Betti A. McLaughlin on Saturday, April 4th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the library's Collins Meeting Room. Books on art, artists, creating art, children's art projects, photography, poetry, entertainment and movies, classics, laminated prints and more will be for sale. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the Wallingford Public Library. For more information please contact the library, 203-265-6754.

Childhood Lead Poisoning A Resource for Child Care Providers What Can I Do To Prevent Lead Poisoning Of Children In My Care? Child care facilities (in the home or center) must obtain and maintain a day care license. Licensed facilities must be in compliance with Lead Poisoning and Prevention laws.

Where Is Lead Found? Lead paint may be found in doors, doorframes, window areas, porches, fences, and stairs. Soil and dust can become contaminated with lead. Some ethnic and home remedies and imported cosmetics may contain lead.

Does Nutrition Impact Lead Absorption? Lead fools the body into thinking it is iron, calcium, or zinc. So offer children foods high in iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamin C. Lead is absorbed more quickly on an empty stomach.

How Can I Advise Parents? Have children tested for lead poisoning at 1 and 2 years of age. Feed children healthy diets Keep children away from potentially leaded environments-at home and at play.

For more information contact the Wallingford Health Department, 294-2065. CT DPH, Day Care Licensing 860-509-8045 CT DPH Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program 860-509- 7745

SPRING BREAK PROGRAMS AT THE WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY For more information or to register for programs stop by or call the Children's Library at: 284-6436. T-Bone Monday April 20th 7:00p.m. Join us for a fun evening of music with T-Bone. Learn all about recycling, through music and fun activities, and why it's so important. T-Bone's performances are full of energy and participatory "full contact entertainment" that will have you clapping and singing along with the music. T-Bone has a great line-up of songs that illustrate the importance of recycling and he will show us what amazing things you can make from recycled trash. This program is being funded by the Wallingford Recycling Committee. No tickets or registration needed, just bring your dancing feet. Kamishibai Stories with Dianne Clouet Wednesday, April 22 7:00p.m. Join us as we welcome Dianne Clouet who will share the art of Kamishibai storytelling with families. Kamishibai is a special form of Japanese storytelling told through words and art. Dianne Clouet is an elementary school teacher from Vermont who will introduce this very special art form to elementary school age children. Kids in grades K-5 and their parents are welcome to join us at the library for an evening of Japanese storytelling. This is a registered program. "Trash into Treasures" with Doreen Zaback Thursday, April 23rd 1:30p.m. Families with elementary school age children are invited to a special program on recycling with Doreen Zaback, Resource Recovery Coordinator for the town of Wallingford. Ms. Zaback will talk about what can be recycled and why it is so important. A special craft activity will follow the program as kids will turn "trash into treasures" by recycling every day objects during this craft project. This is a registered program. SPRING STORYTIME UPDATE: Our Spring storytime schedule has been extended through the week of May 18. ITTY BITTY BABIES Thursday, March 26th-April 16th at 1:30p.m. Thursday, April 23rd-May 21st at 10:30a.m. MOTHER GOOSE Registered: Monday, March 23rd-May 18th (there will be no Mother Goose on Monday, March 30th or Monday April 27th) at 1:30p.m. Drop-in: Tuesday, March 24th-May 19th (there will be no Mother Goose on Tuesday, March 31st) at 6:30p.m. Wednesday, March 25th-May 20th at 10:00a.m. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Tuesday, March 24th-May 19th at 10:00a.m. Wednesday, March 25th-May 20th at 1:30p.m. Thursday, March 26th-May 21st at 6:30p.m.

VOLUNTEERS

WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA is looking for VOLUNTEERS for our annual April vacation Be Water Safe program. Volunteers need to be available April 20-24th either in the morning 8:45AM-noon, or in the evening 6:15-7:45PM. Volunteers must be 13 years old, comfortable in the water and have come in and completed a volunteer application. This is a great way to help your community and earn community service hours! Call Pam VanderWeele 203 269 4497 x 20 for more information.

Page 11 April 2009

SAVE THE DATE - Meriden YMCA HEALTHY KIDS DAY April 18th On Saturday, April 18, the Meriden YMCA invites the Meriden community to participate in YMCA Healthy Kids® Day, the nation's largest health day for children and families. YMCA Healthy Kids Day includes fun, engaging and creative activities for children and families and promotes year-long wellness and healthy living. The event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Meriden YMCA 110 West Main Street in Meriden. The event is free and open to the public. Activities will include fitness classes and demonstrations for kids such as Zumba Kids and karate, face painting, free Amber Alert ID cards, and much more. For more information call the Meriden YMCA at 235-6386 or visit www.meridenymca.org

COME & ENJOY FREE CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY DURING SCHOOL VACATION WEEK. On Monday, April 13th at 11:00 AM. we will be presenting "Circus Suitcase". A program that blends circus games, improvisation, storytelling, puppetry and music. Watch as Jake Weinstein unwraps one circus surprise after another to discover more and more fun. This program is open to children of all ages. FREE tickets are available in the Children's Library. On Tuesday, April 14th at 11:00 AM. Meet author Teresa Butler and listen to her read her book "Simon Says", a book about sharing. You will also be able to purchase books. This program is open to children ages 4 & up. Attention Tweens: A movie based on Stephanie Meyer's series will be showing at 2:00 PM. on

May Market

North Haven Garden Club Special Event: May Market The North Haven Garden Club will have the Annual May Market Saturday, May 9, 2009 9:00-12:00 on the North Haven Town Green. In case of rain, the event will be held at the North Haven Congregational Church Carroll Hall. The May Market features perennial plants, herbs, garden treasures, Neal Peckham's geraniums grown at the North Haven Middle School Greenhouse student gardeners.as well as having local artisans on site. May Market Chairperson is Roberta Hillinski. North Haven Garden Club is a member of The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc and National Garden Clubs, Inc. Photo by Ellie Tessmer ?Bleeding Heart'

Kiss A Goat????

Tuesday, April 14th. Come and enjoy this newly released movie on our big screen with surround sound. Bring a clear drink and we will provide the popcorn. For more information call the Meriden Public Library Children's Room at (203) 630-6347.

Ben Franklin before School Program Meriden Family Resource Center is now accepting registrations for the 2009-2010 Before School Program at Ben Franklin School. This program is open to children in Kindergarten through Grade 5. We offer a sliding scale and sibling discounts. We provide homework assistance, reading time and quiet games or activities from 7:00am until 8:30am. This program is offered to Ben Franklin students only. To register or for more information, please call 238-2316.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB TO HOST ALUMNAE TEA TO CELEBRATE 55th ANNIVERSARY Do you remember wearing your best dress, hat, and gloves to a Wallingford Junior Woman's Club event? It's time to put them on again to celebrate WJWC's 55th Anniversary. WJWC alumnae are invited to attend a 55th Anniversary Tea hosted by WJWC and the Wallingford Public Library on April 19 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the library's community room. There will be a brief presentation, and scrapbooks, past presidents' press books, and awards will be on display. The WJWC silver tea service will be used and light refreshments will be served.

Vital Garden Information

Nancy Ballek was the featured speaker at the March 10th meeting of the Wallingford Garden Club. Ballek’s family has owned a farm in East Haddam since the 1660’s. The Ballek Garden Center is at the heart of the farm and she came to the meeting with great ideas on gardening in h armony with nature. She shared ideas on companion plantings and garden plants that will attract buttterflies and hummingbirds. Some of Ballek’s favorite plants included hellebores, or Christmas cactus, jasmine and daphne, a verbena scented shrub. More favorites of this avid gardener were heuchera and tiarella, companion plants that will thrive because deer don’t enjoy them but butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to their flowers. Ballek encouraged gardeners to plant herbas as companion plants to flowers because the herbs will repel insects. For instance, lavendar is a good companion to rose bushes because insects and deer do not enjoy lavendar. Ballek also suggested that more gardeners plant edibles into their flower gardens and everyone should try to grow lettuce because the average head of lettuce travels 2,500 miles to the grocery store. Ballek also presented a slide show of what she termee ‘great gardens’ of Connecticut as well as favorites that she has vistied in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and British Columbia. She encouraged everyone to grow their own great garden not only for your own enjoyment but also for your children and grandchildren to enjoy.

Attendees are asked to bring their favorite tea cup. Past Juniors are especially encouraged to attend as current members look forward to renewing friendships with the women who have been such a large part of the club's rich history. Women who are interested in learning more about WJWC are encouraged to attend. The tea is free and open to the public. For more information or to reply, please contact Gloria Horbaty, 55th Anniversary Tea Chairwoman, at 269-5909. The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) taxexempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. www.cjw.org. WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and promotes educational, philanthropic, community service work and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction. WJWC projects include the annual Townwide Spelling Bee; the Children's Game Area at Celebrate Wallingford; cosponsoring Candidate's Forum with the League of Women Voters; adopting a local family during the holidays; and providing rehearsal snacks for the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra. In addition, WJWC has participated in and donated to several state projects overseen by CJW, including the current state project, Covenant to Care for Children, Inc., which provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused or at-risk. Any Wallingford woman age 18 or older who is interested in learning more about Wallingford Juniors may call Kathy Schave at 949-1638.

COMFORT KEEPERS WALLINGFORD Carol Carbutti - Owner 157 So. Orchard St., Wallingford 203-697-1030

The Washington Middle School PT held a “Kiss-A-Goat” fundraiser for Students and Teachers. Show above are the three lucky winners from left to right are Ms. Zak (Music), Mr. Maratea (6th Grade Math), Ms. Mc Cluskey. Fun was held by all. The goats of honor were May and June. Mr. Maratea is shown below puckering up

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Page 12 April 2009

"MERIDEN'S TRAPROCK RIDGELANDS: LANDSCAPES OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE" APRIL 28 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be hosting the slide presentation and lecture "Meriden's Traprock Ridgelands: Landscapes of National Significance" by Dr. Peter LeTourneau on Tuesday, April 28 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room. The traprock ridges attain their most spectacular expression in the Meriden area where magnificent cliffs tower over the lowlands and drop precipitously down to steep talus slopes and wind-riffled lakes and ponds. Once protected by virtue of their steep slopes and poor agricultural soils, the ridges are increasingly impacted by residential and commercial development, utilities infrastructure, and quarrying. The ridgelands are important natural resources, providing open space, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and critical water supplies. Functioning as "sky islands", the traprock ridges preserve critical natural areas in the densely populated Connecticut Valley. In many ways, the Traprock Ridgelands have never been better managed, but at the same time increasing pressures from land development and earth materials industries threaten to further fragment and reduce the integrity of, what is arguably, southern New England's most important green corridor. The Traprock Ridgelands are, by any measure, landscapes of national significance, deserving of a coordinated effort to preserve and protect these vanishing resources. The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 to reserve a seat.

Sheehan World Language Department The Sheehan World Language Department is very proud to select Christina Craig as its Spotlight Student. Christina is a very conscientious and dedicated student. She is currently enrolled in Italian II and her passion for the language is demonstrated in both her enthusiasm and ambition to improve her skills outside of the classroom. Her personal commitment to the study of Italian has allowed her to rapidly increase both her oral and written expression. Christina has recently expressed an interest in assisting other students of Italian with their studies which, once again, exhibits her desire to go above and beyond what is expected of her.

Garden Club Winner

LENTEN THOUGHTS Lent is often thought of as a time of darkness. Perhaps we should see it as a period where God's Light shines on our dark ways-letting it illuminate those habits that need reforming and letting His light and Love help us to re-form our thoughts, deeds and desires. A time to resist telling God what we want Him to do and ask Him to shine His light and love to re-form our hearts and clear away the dark areas. 1 Corinthians 2: 11…16 Often God uses nature to speak to us and we can take inspiration from qualities of the world around us. An example is the rose: The rose rises above its thorny branch to bloom in splendor of beauty and fragrance and has become the symbol of love. Just as Christ poured forth divine Love while crowned with thorns, may we rise above the thorny times in our lives with a heart of love and be thankful that thorn bushes can bear roses. - Dorothy Gonick

Veterans Pension Benefit Program Offers Aid for In-Home Care Submitted by Carol Carbutti, Owner of Comfort Keepers of Wallingford Too many times seniors will forego recommended care because the expense is more than the senior can manage. For some, though, there may be an untapped funding source that can create the resources needed to fund in-home care. If you or family member is a veteran, or the surviving spouse of a veteran, you or they may be eligible for funding through the Aid & Attendance special pension. If the veteran served 90 consecutive days of active military duty with at least one day during a U.S. declared war, the veteran or spouse is already partially qualified for the program if they are 65 years or older. The Aid & Attendance special pension is an often-over-looked VA pension benefit. This pension addresses the needs of veterans or their surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of someone to assist them with eating, bathing, dressing or other needs (activities of daily living). Often another member of the family is providing this care giving and their daily and hourly efforts can be paid for by this benefit. Encourage your friends and family members who meet the initial criteria to contact the nearest county Veterans Administration office or my Comfort Keepers Office at 203-697-1030 for more information on this program. Once all paperwork is submitted, approved, and the veteran or spouse begins receiving benefits, Comfort Keepers can provide the level of in-home care that has allowed so many to live comfortably in the privacy of their own homes. This process is time consuming and may take months to complete but a retroactive check will be sent if you are approved. Determining if you or a loved one is eligible for this added monthly income for the rest of your life is a very worthwhile effort on your part.

Number 9 - Connecticut's Premier Beatles Tribute Band Upcoming Event 5/9/09 - Sat - Smokin' With Chris Restaurant - Southington, CT - 8:30-11:30pm

Tradition Golf Club - Ladies Saturday 18 hole league Opening Day Saturday, April 25, 2009 - Interested in a guaranteed tee time every Saturday morning? Want to meet fellow lady golfers and enjoy the outdoors and camaraderie? Join us on Saturday, April 25 at 9:00, at the Traditions Club House, 37 Harrison Rd., Wlfd for a brief meeting and a complimentary continental breakfast. For those interested - there will be game play after the meeting - 4 best ball tournament. Contact Traci Canavan at 203-481-4927 or tccanavan@sbcglobal.net if you are interested.

Barbara Bruce wins five awards at the Fedearated Garden Club Flower Show. Barbara is the vice-president of the Wallingford Garden Club and she won 4 first place awards and a second place award for her displays at the annual Fllwer Show held by The Federated Garden Clubs Of Connecticut, Inc.. Bruce won first prize, a blue ribbon, for a capsule table deasign, a one place setting tabled with appropriate design. She took second place, a red ribbon, for an Alfresco buffet table, a six person buffet table she decorated with red dishes, a red and white table cloth and a red and green flower arrangement. She also received three first place blue ribbons for horticulture branches she entered, a Norway spruce, a blue prince holly, and a gold thread cypress. She is show above with a first place ribbon for this one place setting table design she created for the Federated garden Clubs of Connecticut’s Flower Show in Hartford.

Come to Marianna’s for all of your favorites!

Easter Dinner: GENEROSITY Makes It Happen" Turkey, ham, and all the trimmings will be enjoyed be everyone at the annual holiday Easter dinner, noon to 2:00 PM, Easter Sunday, at the First Congregational Church, 23 South Main St., Wallingford. The dinner, sponsored by Parents & Kids Foundation, Inc. and the church, is free and open to all who want to spend the day with others. Transportation will be provided to those needing rides. Meals and visits will also be delivered to the homebound. These dinners happen every Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter and are fully dependent on donations of food, time and money to be successful. In addition to the dinner at the church, meals and visits are also delivered to the homebound and others in Wallingford, Cheshire and Meriden, unable to participate in the dinner at the church. At each holiday, we "adopt" children and adults with AIDS, some folks who are differently abled, those who are alone, nursing home residents without family and other entire families as we learn of their particular circumstances. We provide them with food, clothes and gifts as we are able. We write cards and send letters to cheer people. It is incredible to be part of this effort and to see all the good that comes when people give and share. As this effort has become so large, it is necessary for us to collect food and other items as early as possible. We are in need of everything. Individuals and businesses that would like to volunteer their time, talents, food, gifts, money or services are encouraged to call Nancy Freyberg at Parents & Kids Foundation, Inc., 284-8299. Together we make it better for everyone!

11th Annual Walk for Autism and 3rd Annual Run for Autism May 3rd. at Choate Rosemary Hall Wallingford, CT The CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center, (ASRC), is hosting their 11th Annual Walk for Autism, and 3rd Annual Run for Autism on Sunday, May 3rd. Both events will take place on the Choate Rosemary Hall Campus in Wallingford, CT. ASRC is a family run, non profit organization that serves individuals with autism spectrum disorders, their family members, and the professionals who work with them. The organization was established 15 years ago due to lack of services for children and adults on the autism spectrum. Today, ASRC offers programs such as support groups for parents, teens, and adults, educational workshops for professionals, workshops for teens and adults on the autism spectrum, recreational and socialization programs for children, teens and adults, mentoring and transitional programs. ASRC has been an integral force behind advocating for services for those with ASD. Autism is a neurological disorder. Ten years ago 1 in every 10,000 individuals were diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Today, it is 1 in every 150. There is no known cause, and no cure. Services that address the needs of the autism community are crucial, and are limited at this time. Come join us at the Walk and post picnic, preceded by a 5K Run. High School students can gain community service hours by participating in the Run. For additional information about our Walk/Run you can go to www.asrcwalk.kintera.org or Call 203 265-7717.

Hot Cross Buns Rice, Wheat & Ham Pies Easter Bread Babkas Place Your Order Today Open Easter 7am-1pm Voted #1 Bakery!

Hours: Monday.- Friday. 7-6; Sat 7-4; Sun. 7-2

Page 13 April 2009

31st Annual Meriden Daffodil Festival

Easter Flower/Plant Sale The Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department will be having an Easter Flower/Plant Sale at the Firehouse at: 143 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville. Friday April 10 from 12-6PM ~ Saturday April 11 from 8AM-6PM ~ Sunday April12 from 8AM-12PM

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!" ~Robin Williams

“Live” Music,Fishing, BOATS, Drumming, SHEDS

The 22nd Annual "Daffodils on Parade" will take place on Saturday, April 25th at 11:30AM. The parade is one of the main features of the 31st Annual Meriden Daffodil Festival, which takes place on Saturday, April 25th (10:00AM-9:00PM) and Sunday, April 26th(10:00AM-5:00PM) at beautiful Hubbard Park. The theme of this year's parade is "The Music in Me," and participants will be singing & dancing from the start at Castle Drive, down West Main Street, into Hubbard Park and around Mirror Lake. "Daffodils on Parade" has been very fortunate over the years to have the creative participation of the central Connecticut community, and this year will be no exception. Numerous local businesses, civic groups, and community organizations will be ready to go. Marching bands, highlighted by representative units from the four Meriden secondary schools, will be tuned up and looking to entertain. Dignitaries such as Little Miss Daffodil & Honor Escort, veterans' groups, honor guards, beauty queens, and many local politicians will be decked out in spiffy attire. The usual parade notables like jugglers & clowns will also be in attendance, as well as special appearances from Spiderman, Captain America, and Ronald McDonald. What really makes the parade unique are the many floats gracing the route and the tremendous enthusiasm displayed by the hundreds of student marchers. Floats require a great deal of effort to design, build, and utilize, but they truly are sights to behold. The festival committee is extremely grateful to the schools & community groups that will invest the time necessary to create them. The committee is equally grateful to our public & parochial school administrators, teachers, parents, and students who inject such liveliness into the event. There will be plenty of both floats & school groups to see this year. As exciting as the parade will be, there is still one thing missing - YOU! The thousands of spectators lining the route are the final piece of the parade puzzle. If you have ever watched a previous one, thank you. Your presence provides an appreciation to the participants. If you have never seen one, why not make 2009 the year to do it? You will not only understand "why everybody loves a parade," but also how fortunate it is to live in such a community-minded place.

, have s y a ! Alw s will alway

Shirley Bloethe

1273 Queen Street,Southington 860-747-8833 www.ShirleysList.com

Fitness, TOYS, “Green Products, Bus. Co-Op

22ND ANNUAL "DAFFODILS ON PARADE"

Networking, Wellness, SCOOTERS, Barter, Ski, Tai Chi

by Ernie Larsen I'm starting to write this on the first day of spring, well let me tell you, I hope the weather gets a lot warmer before Meriden's premier event, the Meriden Daffodil Festival. It's about 30F outside right now and could go as low as 20F or less tonight, brrrrr……..well, it did get pretty chilly last night but yesterday, Saturday the 21st was really nice, sunny, but still only in the 40's; what I call the New Englander's bible, well some of us anyway, the Old Farmer's Almanac, To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community pegged it right when it predicted cloudy and cool weather for today. I thought I'd just check ahead - for April 25-30 (the Festival is on April 25 and 26th) the fabled yellow covered tome is predicting sunny and warm weather. Sure hope NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds so, it'll be a good thing for everyone, the 30 plus non-profit food vendors from the area many who use the Silver Fork at 203.235.9333 or email him at Food tent as their major fundraiser for the year, the talented crafters from all over the eastern seaboard displaying their andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of unique creations, be it a hand made Adirondack chair or some local honey or a pair of knitted baby booties, maybe a clever sign for the front lawn or a new mirror for the bathroom, well whatever it is these crafter never cease to amaze positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as me with their cleverness. Then their the thousands who come to either participate or just enjoy watching Daffodils on well as the return on your investment. Check out the Parade the annual marching extravaganza through the park; and of course those who make it a yearly pilgrimage for paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! the music, three stages of continuous entertainment with an entree to please every musical palate. And I'd be remiss not mentioning the Business Expo on the tennis courts sponsored by Meriden's exuberant Chamber of Commerce, highlighting local companies and firms starting on Friday and wrapping up on Sunday. And, oh yes, the children, Theater of the Trees, kid's free entertainment Saturday and Sunday and the ever popular amusement rides. All this among the Meriden Arts Council 600,001 blooming daffodils in historic Hubbard Park, which is listed on the National Register of Historic places. All of these events benefit from good weather and if the O.F.A. prediction holds, this years event will be second to none based on what the Daffodil Committee has been planning for long before the beginning of the New Year. And this year especially, people deserve some good times, with all that's been going on with the economy, financial firm hi-jinks, along with being held hostage almost every week with a snowstorm, it's time for a break; the Daffodil Festival offers just that, a respite from the real world, if only for a few hours and for the most part it offers many free events. The entertainment, parade, Business Expo have no admission and there is free parking and shuttle service directly to the heart of Hubbard Park so you can start having fun as soon as you arrive; when you disembark from the shuttle and start walking into the Festival proper you'll be serenaded by one of the talented bands playing their hearts out on the Jeff Crooms Welcome Stage and there's plenty more from where that came from. Remember for complete listings of entertainment head for your computer and www.daffodilfest.com for the most up to date information on the Festival, this interactive site has tons of information and is updated continuously to keep everyone abreast of latest Daffodil Festival - no computer, give the Department of Recreation a call, (203) 630-4259. So let's review where and when, in less than 30 days the first events of "Daffodil Week" commence. On Saturday April 18 the Daffodil Festival committee hosts Connecticut's Largest Tag Sale under the Festival tent: over 100 vendors displaying and offering their treasures for sale. The same day, the 18th, a fishing derby for children takes place at Mirror Lake, tentatively scheduled from 10: AM until noon - youngsters are encouraged to bring their own tackle, Lynn Fisher, Staci Roy and Kristina Kosnoff, three members of the Board although a very limited number of rods will be available as well as bait - there is no charge to participate and prizes of Directors of the Meriden Arts Council (MAC) attended a statewide will be awarded, you don't even have to catch a fish to win a prize. For sports fans, the weekend of Saturday and local arts agency peer-to-peer conference, “Achieving Cultural Sunday April 18 and 19 is designated 'Sports Weekend' in Hubbard Park. Meriden's own Beat the Street boxing club Leadership”, that was held at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center in hosts a series of amateur boxing matches; there is a nominal admission fee for this event with all proceeds turned back Meriden on Tuesday March 24th. Representatives of 25 Local Arts to the club to encourage the sport. On Sunday the action kicks off with the 8th Annual Meriden Rotary Club 5K Road Agencies from all over the state were brought together by John Cusano Race. And maintaining tradition, the Festival reverts back to its roots hosting the selection of Little Miss Daffodil and of the Ct Commission on Culture and Tourism (CCT) for a session of her Honor Escort, Wednesday evening April 22nd. The Business Expo begins with a business to business opening on brainstorming, and to devise methods and approaches to advance their Friday the 24th and the annual springtime extravaganza, the 31st annual Meriden Daffodil Festival, a party so big it capacity to deliver cultural leadership. Some of the topics discussed takes two weekends to make it all happen, opens at 10:00 AM on April 25th. Shuttle buses begin at 9:00 AM from all were “Building Audiences”, “Working with little or no staff”, “Creative locations. Economy” and “Using today’s Technology”. In order to break up the day This year, the Festival is truly a Meriden and Connecticut homegrown event; all the musical entertainment has either and remind everyone why they got involved in the arts, Shakesperience a Meriden or Connecticut connection, from Meriden's own inimitable troubadour Frank Critelli to local talent gone Productions, Inc, put on two brief audience participation skits. The nationwide, the Alternate Routes; The Bad Reps, a trio of politicos featuring Speaker of the Ct. House of day ended with a reflective reading of Robert Frost’s poem “Mending Representatives, Chris Donovan, looking to enhance their image through music, with three stages of continuous music Wall” by Alfred Mueller from the Meriden Poetry Society. it will be difficult to choose which group to enjoy; the ever popular Manchurians on the band shell stage or the crowd pleasing Zydeco Hogs in the food tent or one of the newcomers, Bird and Boys on the Welcome Stage. For you salsa The CCT Local Arts Agency (LAA) Cultural Leadership grant program lovers, Jesus Pagan will rock the house in the Silver Fork Food tent while one of my favorites, with their loyal followsupports LAAs as local / regional allies of the Commission. Through ing, The River Street Band takes the band shell stage. This year the festival is getting greener; a troop of local Boy this program, CCT is developing a network of committed LAAs who are Scouts will collect all recyclable cans and bottles and maintain the cleaning of tables in the Silver Fork Food Tent - the helping to develop a statewide culture & tourism infrastructure to more troop will realize the profits of turning in the cans/bottles for their deposit value and importantly receive a lesson in effectively serve Connecticut’s citizens. Participation in the LAA community involvement through this major volunteer effort. And again this year, food vendors are encouraged to use program has enabled MAC to create and maintain their online regional biodegradable food service items - with one of the major food suppliers expanding the availability of same to make this arts and cultural event calendar. This year they plan to focus on a truly environmentally friendly event. building an online directory of artists and organizations, which can be And that's not all on Saturday evening when the sun sets over East peak, a spectacular fireworks display lights the a valuable community resource. sky over Castle Craig. This exhibit draws ooohs and aaahs from those in the park and other spots in Meriden. For those in the surrounding towns, this display is visible from Southington, Cheshire, and Berlin. And on Sunday, the Festival continues, a fun-filled weekend in historic Hubbard Park. QIVANA, YOGA, Bikes, QUADS, Golf, KAYAKS So, are you ready to party? This winter was really a doozy - get out to the Festival, check out the crafts, enjoy some of that great fair food and just relax and listen to the music amidst the 600,001 daffodils in historic Hubbard Park. Come on out, join your family, friends and neighbors; enjoy a day having fun, forget about what's been going on for a few hours. The Committee has planned activities that will entertain, sustain and amaze. A weekend filled with food, flowers, fireworks and fun. Hope to see you at Meriden's premier event, the Meriden Daffodil Festival, April 25 and 26th 2009, in historic Hubbard Park. Saturday, 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM For more information www.daffodilfest.com or the Meriden Parks and Recreation (203) 630-4259.

Page 14 April 2009

Send in a Story! Send in a Picture! Send in a Poem! Send in a Drawing!

The Kids Press! SPRING

By: Brandon DiMichele The sun beating down making flowers come up. Showers falling down to cure the thirst of those flowers. The birds returning from the south to create nests. This is what spring is all about. Spring is nestled between the two seasons' winter (with the brutally cold snow) and summer (with the brutal sun temperatures). Spring is where the bees go on a hunting spree for pollen. It is where caterpillars come out from the cocoons to live a life as a butterfly. That is what happens when you wake up on the first day of spring.

Send to: The People’s Press Kids Press P.O. Box 4459 Yalesville CT 06492 sierra@peoplespressnews.com

Hey Kids - send in your pictures, drawings or stories for our May issue and you may win a cool book. The deadline is April 25th. Don’t forget it’s Mother’s Day so you can send a special greeting to her too!

Now is the time to book Ruth for all of your Spring and Summer Parties & Events.

Is Proud to Sponsor The Kids Press

4/30/09

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Page 15 April 2009

Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals Dear Readers, Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advise from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue. - June and Flora Dear Housewives, I recently went into a chain coffee/donut establishment and the server was not rude but was not friendly. She was young and stood there staring off into the distance while we were making our decision. No, smile, no small talk. I will not go back there But how does this happen? Why are clerks not giving the customer service we deserve? Meriden JUNE: Customer service is at an all time low these days when it matters most. Stores are closing their doors everyday and the employees are not helping to keep them open by using good customer service. Managers need to train them in good customer service, hire only people with people skills and monitor them. People should do a service to the owner by letting them know before boycotting the store. FLORA: By not going back, you are standing by your principles but writing or calling the manager/owner would be more pro-active. Dear Housewives, Should you take a child to a funeral? If they are young they won't really know what is going on and older kids may learn to deal with death by seeing the process. What do you think? Meriden JUNE: I think it depends on the situation. I think kids should not go unless it is an immediate family member. Many kids, especially little ones, will not have the etiquette or patience to sit through the service. They can disrupt the mourning. If your child is over the age of ten they may be able to be respectful and quiet. FLORA: When my grandmother died six years ago, I had 4 and a almost 3 year old; they did not go to the wake or the funeral. But, their distant cousins were there and they were 5 years old. At first I thought it strange. But their mother quietly explained the process. They even went up to my Grandmother's casket. I was impressed with the way their mother handled it. I would think it's easier for a child to attend a church funeral than a wake. But if you start them young and explain the death process on their level, they will have a better understanding. But, there is always the but.... But, if your child has behavioral issues and is not disciplined, leave them home with a sitter. A great movie to watch is "My Girl" with Jamie Lee Curtis and Dan Aykroid. This film deals with death from a child's perspective and is very well done. If you do take your child to a wake, you must prepare them for what they will see there ahead of time. JUNE: Hi Flora, Spring is finally here. I am reading a few good books so I will review them next month. Time to start cleaning out the flower beds. FLORA: Hi June, yes, spring is here and it feels terrific. I am reading "The Shack" by Wm. Paul Young. A review will follow next month.

Lufberry Park in the Spring By Priscilla Reynolds This year, 2009, is very reluctant to show any signs of spring. Lufberry Park is located on the west side of Wallingford off Cheshire Road. Chipper and I love to climb the hill there and look over Ashlar Village and take in the hills of Meriden. The date is March 25, 2009: we are alone; no other dogs, no other hikers, no cars parked near the fenced in base ball field. Broken down trees and briar bushes bar our way on the west trail but Chipper, joyously, runs in and around the prickers and devastation. I concentrate on finding new life on this fifth day of spring after a long frigid winter. And yes, there is! The wonderful warmth of the SUN is sufficient: more light, less wind, finally the promise of Spring. We pass under three bridges of large broken trees. The beginning of the red trail has three trees bending low and together--one more catastrophe of Nature about to happen but I can't believe that we are in danger on such a beautiful day. There were darker days when I viewed the standing bare trunks of trees with some trepidation. Huge monsters seemed to reach out for us, as they did in the movie, "The Wizard of Oz" when Dorothy, the tin man, the scarecrow and the Lion (and Toto) escaped from the terrifying trees marching across the screen. My eyesight fails me at times and I can imagine many exciting things. Looking up from the newly constructed kiosk, I turned to Chipper, "Is that a bear?" It turned out to be a form of fungus or tumor on the tree. Back to the red trail: we approach two lovely evergreens, Holly bushes with pointed strong leaves, a pleasant sight against the snows of the past winter, and a contrast now against the stubborn browns and broken limbs. Three ornaments hang off one of these trees, a perpetual "Charlie Brown" Christmas tree. One of these ornaments has been hanging there at least six years. We start climbing the steep part of our journey. Jagged igneous rocks are scattered on the slope. We turn off the trail to a plateau, another lookout toward the west. Someone has made a fireplace made of huge rocks and evidence of camping out surrounds the area. At one time the view encompassed more woods--now, new homes toward the west detract from the solitude, but the ever-changing sunset on a fair day never disappoints you. We follow the path again toward the summit. We pass two giant pine trees with silver-white bark and bristles of green brush against the sky. I look down and see a trunk of a tree caught in another pine tree perpendicular to the ground. I walk under it--a broom handle away. We have reached the fence that separates the park from land belonging to the Masonic Home, and from the summit we look East and Southeast over Ashlar Village and the lovely Meriden Mountains. Throughout the woods in the distance we spot small trees with golden coins attached. (I remember my Mom reading me stories about golden leaved trees.) These are the Blessed Beech trees. When closer to them the leaves appear pale and oblong, strongly attached to irregular branches The Blue jays, often dubbed troublemakers in the bird world, are credited with carrying the seeds of these lovely trees throughout the woods. One full-grown beech tree stands at the edge of the white trail overlooking a field. Its smooth, gray bark makes it much more huggable than other trees. Its thin bark also makes this tree vulnerable to disease. On our beloved Beech tree are engravings from many ignorant humans. We humans must learn to count our blessings, not destroy them. Many years ago some group labeled several of the trees on the white path. The labels are difficult to read now; the devastation has claimed trees with labels too. But it was remarkable that these? boys (now, men) could distinguish a red Oak from a white Oak, a red Maple from a white Maple. Pignut hickory trees, black and white Birch, Witchhazel, white Ash, Tulip tree and black Cherry are also labeled trees. This endeavor as well as the recent building of the kiosk, the wooden bench near the beech tree and the marked paths are commendable and a real gift to me and other outdoor lovers. The warmth and light from the sun on March 25, 2009 is a promise of New Growth and Hope for the Future. (More research is needed to honor those who have gifted Lufberry Park and also to give an accurate history of the Lufberry family. I hope to do this in the future.)

To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com!

What You Need To Know

The Wallingford Family YMCA Dolphin swim team finished off their highly successful 2008/2009 season with a strong showing at the New England YMCA Swimming Championships held March 21st & 22nd in Boston, MA. The Dolphins finished in 20th place out of 80 teams under head coach Keith Cargan, and garnered 2 New England Champions in the process; Josh Bjornberg (boys 13-14 100 Breaststroke), and Holly Driscoll (girls 11-12 100 Breaststroke). Several other Dolphin swimmers managed top ten finishes in their events, including Brittany Driscoll, Robert Driscoll, Dara Malone, Kayla Merrill, and Kyle Neri. The Dolphins sent a contingent of 34 swimmers, 17 of whom were individual meet qualifiers. Over the course of the 2008/2009 season, 23 individual team records were broken.

"Rhine Discovery" - River Cruise - October 4-12 7 nights on the deluxe river vessel "River Countess" Discovering the rich heritage of the Main & Rhine Rivers From Nuremberg to Basel.Visiting Bamberg, Wurzburg, Miltenberg, Aschaffenburg, Rudesheim, Heidelberg, Strasbourg. Includes all meals, complementary wines with dinner, shore excursions, use of bicycles , transfers. Offered by King Travelways together with UConn Huskees' Alumni Call for brochure: 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com

Connecticut Gymnastics Academy Summer Camp The best Summer camp for your child aged 5 and up. Camp Hours are from 9am-3pm

Instruction Gymnastics Swimming Arts and Crafts Games Movies Inflatable Fun Field Trips Water Fun and much more.

Camp Schedule Week 1 July 6th-10th Week 2 July 13th-17th Week 3 July 20th-24th Early drop-off and late pick-up available. Connecticut Gymnastics Academy 20 North Plains Ind. Rd. Unit 11 in Wallingford 203.269.7464

Page 16 April 2009

Earth Day Special for Wallingford Residents Saturday, April 18 8:00 AM - 10 AM YOU CAN OWN ONE SOILMAKER COMPOSTER TURN YOUR YARD AND FOOD WASTES INTO NUTRIENT RICH SOIL $20 CHECK ONLY (payable to CRRA) LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE Questions? Call Program Planning at 203-294-2061 There's so much pollution in the air now that if it weren't for our lungs there'd be no place to put it all. ~Robert Orben

People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon Look for the answers in this issue. ACROSS 1. During the vernal equinox this happens in the Northern Hemisphere. 12. A partner for Pa 14. Person engaged in buying, selling, bartering, swapping, etc. 15. A respite from work 17. All the vowels except "Y" 18. Did over the facing on fabric 19. State agency that issues driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, etc. 20. Rip, shred. 22. Country with its own government . 24. Father. 25. Groups of cattle. 26. Male offspring. 27. Greaser. 29. Android. 31. Blemish. 32. Remove liquid. 34. Four main points on a compass. 36. Question. 37. Residue produced from incomplete burning of carbon based materials. 38. Her book "Beloved" won the 1988 Pulitzer Prize (initials). 40. A French person's friend. 41. Person who consumes food. 43. A place or state of supreme happiness. 45. Famous Spanish cellist and conductor "________ Casals". 47. Spanish word for "this". 49. To disfigure, deface or scar. 50. A road, course, or way for travel (abbr.) 51. "Hit the _______ on the head". 52. To shrink, bend, or crouch, especially in fear of danger. 54. What ever this female wants, she gets. 55. One more the nine. 56. Competed for; contended 59. Affirmative response from a sailor 60. Barbie's boyfriend 63. Bismarck is the capital of this state (abbr.) 64. To be in agreement or harmony. 65. "Art ______" was a popular architectural style of the period 19251940. 66. A town in Diksmuide, a part of Belgium. 67. A British nobleman 68. Popular deli sandwich is "Ham ___ _____"

DOWN 1. Three word phrase indicating "a declaration of the truth of something". 2. Dominates; overrules 3. A surprise attack 4. Response heard during a wedding ceremony 5. Castrate; spay 6. Actor who played Superman in the 1950's TV series (initials). 7. Civil rights activist murdered in 1963 in Jackson Mississippi. 8. "My ____ Sal". 9. Four word phrase meaning "something added to make a thing better or more desirable" 10. Name of the Darling's family dog in the story "Peter Pan" 11. Brand of felt hat with a broad brim and high crown, often seen in Texas 12. Jefferson City is the capital of the state (abbr.) 13. Of unknown name; nameless (abbr.) 16. A mentally defective person with an exceptional skill or talent. 18. Actor, Gary Burghoff, portrayed this company clerk in the TV series, MASH 21. A hospital department (abbr.) 23. "Right ___ !!" 25. Chop; hack 28. Large body of water in Middlefield near the border of Meriden. 29. Providence is the capital of this state (abbr.) 30. Brand of sugar substitute in yellow colored packet 32. Female deer 33. "Right back ___ you." 35. A sudden, urgent occurrence requiring immediate action 37. Small rock 39. "___ , myself and I". 42. First name of the notorious gangster who was nicknamed "Scarface". 44. (See 40 across) 46. "One ___ a time." 48. A small sour dark purple fruit of the Allegheny plum bush 53. Finish 57. Frozen H2O 58. A buck's partner. 59. Fruit drink 61. Prefix used with friendly to indicate environmentally acceptable 62. Negative prefix 65. CBS late night show host (initials)

Meriden Senior Center Community Forum The Meriden Senior Center will be the site of a forum held by the Connecticut Cancer Partnership and the Connecticut Department of Public Health on April 22, 2009, from 1:00-2:30pm. The Partnership is looking for individuals over the age of 18 who have been diagnosed with cancer to participate the discussion, which will focus on past and present needs related to someone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer. Information gathered from the discussion will help determine where to focus future cancer-related resources, services, and programs. This is a chance to share your thoughts and concerns; your input is very important! Pre-registration is required, call the Senior Center at 237-0066 to sign-up. The discussion is limited to the first 20 people to sign-up; free lunch is provided and there will be a raffle drawing. This forum is being co-sponsored by the Meriden Health Department.

MANY WAYS TO BECOME WATER SAFE THIS SUMMER! The Wallingford Family YMCA is offering a number of opportunities this spring that will make your summer more fun and a lot safer! Junior Lifeguard Program; If you are between 11 and 14 and already know how to swim this is for you. Come to the Y April 20-23rd and be introduced to water rescue skills and learn what it takes to become a lifeguard. Learn survival skills for yourself and others in a water emergency. And have fun! American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course- begins March 30. You must be 15 and able to swim 300 yards competently. Interested retirees are welcome. This certification will qualify you for lifeguard jobs. At the completion of the course you will have learned CPR/FPR + AED + O2 as well as lifeguarding and first aid skills. You must successfully complete both a written and a practical exam to become certified. American Red Cross Basic Water Rescue course. This is a perfect 4 hour class for parents with backyard pools, Scout leaders, and water sports enthusiasts. Teens are welcome. The class includes hands on water rescue practice as well as classroom discussions. There is a written exam to receive a 3 year certification. Be Water Safe! This United Way program will run April 20-24th over spring vacation for Wallingford school students. This program cost $5 for each student and is open for 4 year olds through 6th graders. Registration information will be coming home through the Wallingford schools, if you do not receive one and would like a registration form, please call 203 269 4497 x 20 to have one sent to you. The half hour sessions are being offered both in the morning and the evening. There are class limits, so please register early! Be Water Safe with Huggies! This year we are adding a Parent & Child program for parents with children ages 1-3 years old. A parent must accompany the child in the water. This will run at 6:30-7PM April 20-24th. Support from the Huggies Corporation enables us to offer this class for $5 as well. Don't wait to get ready for summer fun- in the pool, the lake or the ocean. Be pro- active- learn water safety skills now to keep you and your family safer this year. Call Pam VanderWeele for more information and to register. 203 269 4497 x 20. www.wallingfordymca.org

Understanding Autism A fund-raising event to bring about awareness for the most commonly diagnosed neurological disorder - Autism. April is Autism Awareness month and you can help us to change the face of Autism with drinks, food, music and fun! The even will be held at Rosie's CafĂŠ on Camp Street in Meriden on Thursday, April 16th from 6pm-10pm. All tips go to "The Autism Society of America."

31st Annual Meriden Daffodil Festival Special events SATURDAY APRIL 18, 2009 FISHING DERBY AT MIRROR LAKE 10AM UNTIL 11:30PM

Kids Making A Difference!

Children gather around Speaker of the House Chris Donovan at the March 18, 2009, Early Childhood Advocacy Day in Hartford. The event was attended by more than 300 people - including a busload from Meriden's Easter Seals/Head Start program and representatives from Meriden Children First and the Meriden School Readiness Council.

The derby is open to anyone age 15 and under. Children are encouraged to bring their own rods or use the rods (a limited number of rods will be available for use). Live bait will be available. Prizes will be given for heaviest fish & longest fish. All participants will have the opportunity to win raffle prizes at the conclusion of the derby. REFRESHMENTS FOR PURCHASE WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE PARK SATURDAY APRIL 18, 2009 A SPRING BOXING EXTRAVAGANZA Under the Tennis Court Tent Presented by Beat the Street Community Center, Inc. First Bout Starts at 1:00PM Admission: Adults $15.00 Students $7.00 Age 6 and Under FREE Tickets Available at the Door Look for updated and additional information at www.daffodilfest.com

Page 17 April 2009

Do You Freecycle? By Tia Kozar This year for Earth Day (April 22nd), do something different. Help the community, the environment and maybe even yourself by joining the Freecycle Network online. Freecycle is an online network where people can give away old or unwanted items instead of throwing them away. The Freecycle.org website is similar to shopping or selling on Ebay or Craig's list, except every item posted is 100% free. The Freecycle website's mission statement is: "Freecycle is a non-profit organization whose main goal is to reduce waste, save precious resources, and ease burden on landfills." It's easy; all you have to do is sign up, put up a listing for the items you want to give away and if someone in your area is looking for that, they can come pick it up. Almost anything goes: Items can be new or used, working or not. Freecycle members have offered everything from clothing and toys to furniture, dishwashers, plants, and camping gear. Need parts for a broken appliance? Or maybe props for the school play? Check out the local Freecycle listings or post a request of your own. You never know what you will find. When a CT Girl Scout troop was looking for a tent for a camping trip, they got responses from several Freecycle members offering not only several tents, but rowboats, firewood, camp chairs and sleeping bags! Recent area Freecycle listings include a Coleman outdoor gas fireplace, a pet carrier, and vegetable steamer and crockpot in Wallingford. And Meriden Freecyclers have offered curtains, children's toys, books, and a king sized bed and triple dresser. For more information on these listings or to find more in our area, go to the Meriden Freecycle network's website: http://www.freecycle.org/group/United%20States/Connecticut/Meriden or visit www.freecycle.org for other CT area Freecycle networks. Freecycle is a great way to help others in the community while keeping your items out of landfills. The Freecycle Network Worldwide has reported that its members are keeping 55 tons of goods out of landfills each day! So, before you throw your old things out, make a change and make a difference in community and the environment, and log on to Freecycle.org.

Meriden Daffodil Festival Crafts By The Lake Saturday April 25, 2009 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM and Sunday April 26, 2009 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Every year there are thousands of festivals in North America where artists, artisans, and craftspeople display and sell their work. The 31st Annual Meriden Daffodil Festival with over 600,001 daffodils blooming is the site of "New England's Most Beautiful Craft Fair!" As a juried craft fair, the Meriden Daffodil Festival selects it's exhibitors for their quality and uniqueness. This years festival will have over 80 craftspeople presenting the highest quality fine art and crafts at this ever popular 2 day event.

Random Shot

SPOTLIGHT ON SHEEHAN HIGH STUDENTS SCASA Honors Sheehan Seniors Sheehan seniors, Kimberly Grzesik and Kevin Gilhuly, were recently selected as recipients of the South Central Area Superintendents Association (SCASA) Award for 2009. This award is presented to students who embody the mission of their school and are deeply committed to community and humanitarian service. Both students will be honored at an awards luncheon this Friday. Kimberly Grzesik recognizes the value of giving back to her community. Since her freshman year, Kim has accumulated over 200 hours of volunteer work. She is a member of Peer Advocates and serves as a role model to younger children. She also demonstrates leadership through her involvement with Rainbow Girls, an organization affiliated with the Masons, and she has traveled to Australia and Europe as a People to People Student Ambassador. A member of National Honor Society and a CAPT Scholar, Kim is also involved in extracurricular activities at the school. She is an officer for Students Against Destructive Decisions and is President of the Anime Club. In addition, throughout high school Kim has been a member of the Wallingford Girls Softball League. With over 900 hours of volunteer work, giving back to the community has become a way of life for Kevin Gilhuly. He serves as a "big brother" to an elementary student through Big Brothers Big Sisters and enjoys spending quality time with this youngster. He has also taught CCD at Out Lady of Fatima Church in grades 10 through 12 and has served as a Meriden Police Explorer since his sophomore year. Kevin has been a member of Sheehan's outdoor and indoor Track Teams throughout high school, and he demonstrates leadership as captain of the outdoor team. His leadership skills have further developed through his roles as President of the Senior Class, Vice President of Key Club and in serving as an officer for Students Against Destructive Decisions. Kevin has also participated on the Tools For Schools Committee as a student representative. The Sheehan faculty is very proud of these students' commitment to school and community service.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB ANNOUNCES 2nd ANNUAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK EVENT - TRUCKS WANTED The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club will sponsor its 2nd Annual Touch-a-Truck on May 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chevrolet Theatre, and trucks are needed. This is a hands-on activity for children and parents to experience their favorite big trucks up close by climbing into the driver's seat, honking the horn, and pretending to steer. WJWC invites local truck owners to provide trucks for display and touching. Truck owners must provide a current certificate of insurance, a truck attendant at all times, and a truck that may be touched and/or sat in. Truck owners may distribute family-friendly promotional materials with WJWC approval. For more information, please call Kathryn Speeg, WJWC Touch-a-Truck Committee Co-Chairwoman, at 203-2845826. The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. www.cjw.org. WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and is a non-profit organization that promotes educational, philanthropic, community service work and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction. WJWC projects include the Townwide Spelling Bee and Children's Area at Celebrate Wallingford, and partnerships with the League of Women Voters of Wallingford & Cheshire, Wallingford Symphony Orchestra, Wallingford Emergency Shelter, and American Red Cross. In addition, WJWC has participated in and donated to several state projects overseen by CJW, including the current state project, Covenant to Care for Children, Inc., which provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused or at-risk. For more information about WJWC, call Mimi LaFrance, Membership Chairwoman, at 284-8544

Mystery Tour, Connecticut's favorite Beatles tribute band You won't believe your ears when you hear Mystery Tour, Connecticut's favorite Beatles tribute band. Step right up to the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center on Saturday April 18th to experience the musical excitement of the 60's as "The Mystery Tour" show unfolds.This cabaret style event benefits the Meriden Arts Council's annual Education Awards, in which we give monetary awards to high school seniors planning to continue their education in the arts. Tickets are just $20.00. Tickets will be available from any MAC board member or at J.C. Music, 529 West Main Street, Meriden; Friends of the Library, 25 West Main Street, Meriden; Gallery 53, 53 Colony Street, Meriden; Pies Ons Pizzeria, 21 Colony Street, Meriden; Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, Meriden; Prudential Connecticut Realty, 1243 South Broad Street, Wallingford and Wallingford Center Inc, 261 Center St. Wallingford. Seating is limited, we suggest purchasing tickets in advance. Call Kris at 203-535-9059 or e-mail to info@meridenartscouncil.org.

OpenHouse for Prospective Volunteers MidState Medical Center is hosting an open house for prospective volunteers who want to learn more about what opportunities are available at the hospital. Details are below: MidState Medical Center-Volunteer Open House Thursday, April 16, 2009 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Horwitz Conference Center, Conference Room I Light refreshments will be served. ~Meet and talk with MidState volunteers ~Observe volunteers in action ~Tour the hospital Learn how you can become part of the exciting world of healthcare volunteers. For more information, call 203-6948275. Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect. ~Chief Seattle, 1855

There’s nothing like a warm swim on a cold day - don’t ya think?

* Auto * Home * Business * Life

John J. Kovacs Insurance Agency 208 Center Street, Wallingford

Office: (203) 269-2500 Life Insurance underwritten by Nationwide Life Insurance Company Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and affiliated Companies Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215-2220

Page 18 April 2009

Happy Birthday Grandma

Happy 77th Birthday Grandma! We know this is going to be your best year yet. Love all of your many grandchildren.

ROCK OUT! HAVE FUN!

PLAY DRUMS!

DRUM LESSONS Attention Parents I give your child focus & confidence Students are welcome from beginner to advanced by Jon Peckman, author of the nationally renowned book “Picture Yourself Drumming.” Lessons are held conviently in the center of Wallingford.

Call 203.537.4112 or visit www.myspace.com/jonpeckman

Wallingford Park and Recreation News and Events 0200.400 Hip House Middle School Dances Remaining Dance Schedule for the 2008-2009 Hip House Dance Series is as follows… Dance ID's must be present to enter the dances. No student is allowed to enter the dance after 7:45pm. Dance passes are still on sale at Rec. Dept. Spring Break Out - April 17th The Last Blast - May 22nd **Replacement Dance Passes can be purchased if original is lost. Fee is $5 0041.200 Spring Stingerso Ages 6-11 Come join your friends in this very popular program over April break. We will be hopping on the bus this spring and we will be going on various trips each day. This will be a fun filled week for all participants ages 6-11. Trip schedule is not available at time of print. Program Date: April 20 - 24 8:30am - 4:30pm Fee: $180 per child. Guaranteed T-Shirt for everyone registered by Wednesday April 8th. 9060.200 WESTPOINTDRESSPARADE- WESTPOINT, NY Saturday May 2nd Bus Departs: Rec. Dept. 7:00am Returns: 6:30pm Fee: $79 West Point Academy invites you to view the famous Dress Parade conducted with great pomp and circumstance on the parade grounds. The cadets will march in full uniform, in cadence with the military music, presenting arms in unison. Lunch will be at The Chalet on the Hudson in Cold Spring for their delicious buffet. Wonderful assortment of salads, hot and cold entrees, dessert and beverage. Guided tour of West Point highlights: Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, Hudson River lookout. Time will be spent at the Visitor's Center Shop. A current photo ID is required for all passengers / visitors over the age of 16 to present at the gates the day of the trip. If mailing in registration, please list drivers license number and state issued on registration form. 3035.200 Ant Bee'sBug Classo For 3-5yrs. Without Parent If your children love bugs, this is the class for them. There will be crafts, stories and activities around the world of bugs. Thursdays April 30th for 6 weeks Fee: $40 Location: Exit 9 Instructor: Terese Biega 3200.200 Under the Sea o 3-5yrs Without Parent We will explore and learn about the different varieties of shells and fish through storybooks and crafts. Thursdays April 30th for 6 weeks Fee: $40 Location: Exit 9 Instructor: Terese Biega ***Children enrolled in both Ant Bee's and Under the Sea pay only $70 4476.200 Start Smart Golfo Ages 5-6 w/parent This country wide program is for children ages 5-7 who have never played golf. This program utilizes the SNAG Coaching System, unique patented system that moves parent and child groups through four stations. This class is more than par for the course. Many laughs and fun to be had by both parent and child. When: Mondays 5:00 - 5:45pm April 27th for 6 weeks Fee: $45 Location: Gym 1 Instructor: Kenny Michaels, Recreation Program Specialist 8707.204 Edible Creations - Mothers Day We will be decorating a hat made out of solid white chocolate and adhering fondant flowers to the hats. After the flowers are attached, ribbons are also added. This very special mothers day creation will be sure to warm any mothers heart. When: Saturday May 2nd 11:00am - 12:00pm for one day Fee: $12 per person ($6 materials fee made payable to instructor day of class) Location: Exit 7 Instructor: Sherry Rimkoski and Debbie Terrusa 8424.200 Garden Crafts Workshop Come paint and decorate a variety of fun garden crafts which you can use or give as Mother's Day gifts. A 9x12 Vermont garden slate will be painted, stenciled and stamped to hang on a rawhide cord. Perfect for your At Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department backyard or garden house décor. We'll paint a waist garden apron and gardening gloves for a fun useful set. We'll also paint a terracotta garden marker too! Have a creative and relaxing evening welcoming spring! When: Friday April 24th 6:30 - 9pm One Night Fee: $25 ($17 material fee made payable to instructor night of class) Location: Exit 7 Instructor: Kim Larkin, Crafts Supervisor 8480.220 Children's Mother's Day Workshop o Grades 2 - 5 Let's make some special crafts for Mom / grandma / auntie! We will paint a lovely shadowbox and fill it with things that remind us of mom. We'll also have a card making station with creative supplies too. A great keepsake for your favorite female! When: Sunday May 3rd 1:30 - 3:30pm One Day Fee: $25 ($7 material feel made payable to instructor day of class) Location: Exit 7 Instructor: Kim Larkin, Crafts Supervisor Digital Camera - Site For Sore Eyes Event This event is a scavenger hunt with a twist. Participants will be required to provide their own DIGITAL Camera. No film cameras will be permitted. Each group/family will be given a list of items which will require them to locate as many items as possible within a certain amount of time. Each group will then take a group photo with that item. Upon completion the group must return to the Rec. Dept. to have their photo's judged. Prizes to be awarded to first 3 finishers with completed list. Date: Friday April 24, 2009 Time: 6:30p.m.-9:00p.m. Location: Wallingford Parks and Recreation Dept. Fee: $10.00 per group or family Pre-Registration: Is required - maximum of 75 groups or families will be allowed to register. Registration Deadline is April 17, 2009. Register at 6 Fairfield Blvd. in Wallingford Telephone: 203-294-2120 for any questions.

Relay for Life fundraiser PiesOns Pizzeria, 21 Colony Street, Meriden, will sponsor a Relay for Life fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, April 23rd. Ten percent of total receipts will be donated to the Southington Care Center Relay for Life Team. Eat-In, Delivery or Order out. Call (203) 235-1221. The deadline for the May 2009 issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is April 25th for all submissions. Don't forget to send your Mother's Day Photo Wish - look for the form in this issue. Email your stories, news, celebrations and photos to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Sign up to be a subscriber with www.peoplespressnews.com for updates, reminders and special offers.

Page 19 April 2009

HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE SPRING IS HERE! REMEMBER HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE WHEN YOU ARE DOING YOUR SPRING CLEANING AND HAVE ITEMS YOU NO LONGER NEED AND WOULD LIKE TO DONATE TO THE STORE. WE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH THE CHRYSALIS FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. YOUR DONATIONS OF ITEMS IN GOOD,CLEAN,WORKING CONDITION ARE ALWAYS IN NEED. ITEMS WE ARE ESPECIALLY IN NEED OF ARE: FURNITURE(NO RIPS,STAINS PLEASE) APPLIANCES(MUST BE IN WORKING CONDITION)- WASHING MACHINES, DRYERS, REFRIGERATORS, PORTABLE DISHWASHERS, SM. FREEZERS,STOVES ELECTRONICS-CABLE READY T.V.S, STEREOS, RADIOS, GAME SYSTEMS,COMPUTER SETS OUTSIDE PLAY ITEMS-BIKES,RIDE ON TOYS,PLAYHOUSES,PLASTIC WADING POOLS,WAGONS,YARD GAMES BABY ITEMS-UMBRELLA STROLLERS,PACK & PLAYS,HIGH CHAIRS,CRIBS,BOOSTER SEATS GARDEN HAND TOOLS,STATUES SMALL APPLIANCESMICROWAVES,TOASTERS,BLENDERS,MIXERS,IRONS PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR DONATIONS HELP OTHERS IN NEED IN THE COMMUNITY. WE WILL GLADLY PICK UP LARGE ITEMS OR LARGE DONATIONS OF THE ABOVE ITEMS AT NO CHARGE LOCALLY. WITH YOUR HELP THE STORE RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY AND WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THAT HAVE SHOWN THEIR SUPPORT BY DONATING OR PURCHASING ITEMS SO THAT THE STORE CAN CONTINUE TO HELP OTHERS, WE COULD NOT OF OFFERED SO MUCH HELP TO NOT ONLY THE CHRYSALIS BUT TO THE OTHER ORGANIZATIONS THAT HAVE CONTACTED US TO HELP PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY WHICH HAVE HAD AN UNFORTUNATE EVENT HAPPEN TO THEM & NEEDED HELP. HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE HAS NEVER TURNED ANYONE AWAY WITHOUT HELP WHEN THEY HAVE PROOF OF BEING IN NEED OF ITEMS WE HAVE AVAILABLE IF AN ITEM IS NOT NEEDED BY THE WOMEN AND CHILDREN OF THE CHRYSALIS. DONATIONS NOT NEEDED RIGHT AWAY ARE UP FOR SALE TO HELP COVER THE STORES EXPENSES SO WE CAN CONTINUE HELPING OTHERS. WE DO NOT RECEIVE ANY GRANTS OR OTHER FORM OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT AND HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH SO MANY OFFERING HELP THROUGH THEIR DONATIONS & SERVICES. WE ARE THANKFUL FOR THE MANY LOYAL CUSTOMERS & DONORS THAT WE HAVE COME TO KNOWN OVER THE LAST YEAR & HOPE TO GET TO KNOW MANY MORE IN THE FUTURE. THE NEED FOR HELP IN THE COMMUNITY IS GREAT AND WE WILL CONTINUE TO OFFER HELP AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE TO EASE THAT NEED. ALL THAT DONATE AND MAKE PURCHASES SHOULD FEEL GOOD KNOWING THEY ARE HELPING OTHERS. WE WANT TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO THANK CHRIS CERRITO WHO HAS ALLOWED US TO LEASE THE BUILDING AS HE SUPPORTS OUR GOAL OF HELPING OTHERS AS WELL AS THE BUSINESSES LOCALLY THAT HAVE OFFERED THEIR SUPPORT TO THE CHRYSALIS AND THE STORE, ANDY AT THE PEOPLES PRESS FOR GETTING OUR ADS PUBLISHED,R-J FOR THEIR STORIES ABOUT THE STORE & ITS CAUSE,THE MANY CUSTOMERS WHO HAVE BROUGHT IN COFFEE,TREATS FOR THE STAFF, THE CHRYSALIS FOR ALLOWING US TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH THEM AS WELL AS THE GENERAL PUBLIC BY DONATING & PURCHASING ITEMS-THANK YOU ALL WE COULD NOT DO IT WITHOUT YOU! PLEASE REMEMBER EVERY WED. IS BAG DAY-FILL A PLASTIC BAG WE PROVIDE FOR ONLY $2.00 OF SHIRTS,BLOUSES,TOPS,SWEATERS,PANTS,SHORTS,EVERYDAY DRESSES,SKIRTS(NO SUITS, GOWNS,COATS,ACCESSORIES OR OTHER STORE MERCHANDISE) FILL AS MANY AS YOU LIKE AT THIS GREAT LOW BARGAIN PRICE. MANY ITEMS ARE NEW,FAMOUS NAME BRANDS! CHECK OUT OUR TWO FLOORS OF MERCHANDISE AND LOOK FOR OUR UNADVERTISED SPECIALS AT THE STORE. WE ARE OPEN TUES.- SAT. 9A.M.- 5P.M. WE ACCEPT CASH,DEBIT,M.C. & VISA WE OFFER DELIVERY FOR FURN.OR APPLIANCES PURCHASED AT THE STORE FOR A LOW FEE IN THE LOCAL AREA ONLY TO THE FIRST,SECOND FLOORS UNLESS AN ELEVATOR IS AVAILABLE FOR OUR USE. WE HAVE MANY EASTER ITEMS SO STOP IN AND GET YOUR BARGAINS! WE ARE LOCATED AT 22 NO. TURNPIKE ROAD IN WALLINGFORD. OUR PHONE NUMBER IS (203) 284-0300

To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com!

Brothers Carting LLC.

Roll Off Containers Dumpsters Household Pickup Cleanups

203-265-1555 Happy Birthday

DAFFODIL TAG SALE CONNECTICUT'S LARGEST!

Saturday, April 18, 2009 Under the Festival Tent Hubbard Park, West Main Street, Meriden, CT 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM rain or shine Go to www.daffodilfest.com to obtain and download form to participate. Join friends & neighbors; get rid of that old dresser, lawn mower, Sonny's comic collection, Grandma's old Crock Pot..... you know, the stuff you "are going to use someday"...or come by to browse & buy at the area's largest tag sale...and while you're at it, take a stroll through historic Hubbard Park among the 600,001 blooming daffodils... For only $20.00 you can rent a 10'x10' single space that includes 1 table under the Festival tent. For only $40.00 you can rent a double space 10'x20' with 2 tables. Additional tables may be rented for $10.00 each. Set-up is at 7:00AM with all items to be removed by 3:00PM (No Exceptions) Household Items Only REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE

Do You Know the Signs of a Heart Attack? * Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of the chest. It can last more than a few minutes, or go away and comes back. Sometimes women do not have pain in the chest; they may feel pressure in the back between the shoulder blades. * Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, your back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. * Other signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness, or having sudden "flu-like" symptoms.

If you or anyone you know is showing these signs, CALL 9-1-1 right away! For more information on heart health, please call the Meriden Health Department's Community Heatlh Education office at 630-4238

Happy 5th Birthday, Kevin Leo! We love you, cowboy! Love, Mommy & Daddy xoxoxo

Many Annuity Owners Lose Money

Christopher W. Porter Porter Financial Strategies

Do you Make These Mistakes? I can show you how not to.

Many Annuity owners lose over 50% of their annuity's value when it pays off. It's true-and I can provide you a booklet which will show you how you may be able to avoid this mistake entitled,

"Annuity Owner Mistakes" The booklet is absolutely free and shows you how to preserve your annuity.

To get your complementary copy that could help protect your funds, simply call our message service at 1-800-774-4964 (Toll Free - 24 hours) and leave your name and address and the booklet will be mailed to you immediately. As a courtesy, we will plan on giving you a call to confirm your booklet was received. Any questions can be answered at that time. No selling.

Page 20 April 2009

New! Massage Therapy at the Meriden YMCA

Ready for Spring? By Shirley Bloethe - Pass It On Sports It's spring.... and there are so many great choices for outdoor fun.....Bike riding, canoeing, walking, rollerblading, kayaking, golf, soccer, baseball, basketball, scuba, waterskiing, swimming, picnics, hiking, fishing, camping, gardening, and more...it's almost impossible to list 'em all!!! Safety issues should be addressed initially in making decisions about what type of play to participate in, and if children are included. If the event is centered around children, be sure to address any safety issues before beginning. Some sports require mouth guards, special shoes (cleats), protective headwear and other protective equipment such as wrist, knee & elbow pads and helmets for rollerblading. For all types of water sports and activities, life preservers and flotation devices are always recommended. If an adult or child cannot swim it is very important to purchase a preserver that will keep their head above water should they be rendered unconscious or fall in unexpectedly. There are many choices in life vests and some are specific to particular water sports such as jet ski's, boating, canoeing or kayaking. When choosing gear or equipment for another sport, be sure the user is familiar with how to wear it and getting the right fit. Ask in the store where you are purchasing the items for guidance on proper fit and size. When purchasing a bike for a child, be sure to get the right size. Don't buy it so the child can "grow" into it. It will be difficult to learn to balance and you may end up with a child who will never ride if they have a bad experience initially. If you live in a hilly area, get a bike rack for your car, and bring all the bikes and family to level areas, parks or a bike trail made especially for rollerblading, bicycling and walking without cars nearby. There are maps available in towns and the state that show where all the "rails to trails" locations are and many of them are now being connected to each other. Another fairly inexpensive option for many teens and adults of all ages is a kayak or canoe. They can be purchased new for less than $250 and be used for many years. Many people choose kayaks instead of canoes because of ease of use and weight factors. Most recreational kayaks and canoes can be easily handled with almost no instruction. Canoes are typically a bit longer and heavier unless you purchase more expensive lightweight styles. Canoes offer storage and moving about space in them. Most recently, manufacturers are making fishing kayaks for anglers that offer all the advantages of a lightweight boat with storage without the disadvantages of larger heavier canoes or boats. All these things can be done by a recreational canoe/ kayaker with a little planning and information about the location they will be paddling in. There are many options for kayaks that make even the beginner look like a regular user. There are kayaks that are for all types of general recreational use in both a sit-in style and sit-on-top design. They each have advantages and drawbacks depending on your intended use. A sit-on-top kayak is a wonderful choice if you do not need storage on your boat. They can be used in rivers, oceans, back bays, lakes, and most bodies of water except very fast white water conditions (of which there is very little in Connecticut). Many elderly persons who have never kayaked before are choosing this style for exercise and recreational use, and teens like them because they can play around with them in the water and they can't sink it even if it is used like a surfboard. Some of the advantages of a Sit-On-Top Kayak: *ease of entry (no cockpit to wiggle into) *cannot sink, (they are self bailing) * should you want to take a swim while in transit, you can easily climb back into your kayak again and continue paddling. *adjustable lay down option on seatback--sunbathe for a while *built in foot braces *built in flotation *very stable for beginners-difficult to tip over *lightweight-easy to transport smaller units especially (34lbs) Disadvantages are: *no storage compartments *no protection from elements (cold weather, rain, sun, etc) While sit-in style kayaks can be used in rivers, oceans, back bays, lakes, and most bodies of water except very fast white water conditions as well, sometimes storage capacity is desired. The advantages of sit-in kayaks are: *storage capacity (one or two compartments) *some have dry storage compartments *protection from cold weather, rain, or sun *ability to use year round with a skirt (optional accessories) *lightweight-easy to transport smaller units (34lbs) *drain plug to empty water in hull *comfortable seating *built in adjustable foot braces on most models *built in flotation Disadvantages are: * no ability to exit and enter easily unless on shore-will fill up with water and have to be brought to land to empty boat out (it will usually not sink) *heavy to move about if left upright and it rains (cockpit covers are available) *less stable than wider models The kayak information in this article are specific to the Pelican models I am most familiar with and are general in nature to most kayaks by other manufacturers, however there are features that vary greatly depending on the company. If you have not considered kayaks because of the old shows on TV that depict an Eskimo roll and white water styles, you might want to check out the new styles that don't tip over easily and can be used everywhere---recreational Kayaks !!! If you are thinking of trying golf, many people start with a lesson at a golf resort or club to see if they enjoy it. You can then purchase a starter set appropriate for your sex and size. There are children's, junior, ladies and men's sets. A used starter set with a bag can cost anywhere from $50- $150. If you fall in love with the sport, a full set new, will cost from $125 to hundreds of dollars. A used full set will usually run under $200 with a golf bag. I would suggest a reasonably priced set initially and in a couple of years you can then upgrade if you want something in the higher end market. The starter set consists of four irons (3,5,7,9) and a putter along with a driver (the "1" wood ). A full set includes the irons (3,4,5,6,7,8,9 and a PW--pitching wedge) and the putter and three "woods" ( the "1" wood commonly called the driver, a "3" wood and a "5" wood).Golf shoes, balls and other accessories can all be bought used and new. So, think outdoors, and think of all the interesting activities and fun you can have with the whole family and/or with your friends. Whatever your choices for recreation, remember to think safety first and enjoy the spring and summer....See you soon.

The YMCA is now offering Massage Therapy. Enjoy the benefits of a 30 minute chair or a 60 minute table massage from one of our licensed massage therapists. Massage therapy offers relaxation, pain relief, lower blood pressure, stress relief, an improved immune system, and it aids in the recovery of your muscles. The YMCA also offers Reflexology. Prices are $35 for a half hour or $60 per hour for members, and $45 per half hour and $80 per hour for nonmembers. Call 235-6386 x18 today to schedule your appointment

A Free Concert

The guitar students from the Hartt School, University of Hartford will present a free concert on Monday April 20, 2009 Augusta Curtis Cultural Center in Meriden beginning at 7:00 PM. The concert will feature guitar quartets by Australian composer, Philip Houghton and Japanese composer, Shingo Fujii. There will also be solo and ensemble works by CastelnuovoTedesco, deFossa, and Berkley.

Happy Easter

Rachel Birmingham - I love you so much. Happy Easter 2009. Love, Mom

Wallingford Optical

Diane Mintich Licensed Optician, A.B.O. & N.C.L.E. Certified

James Comeau Licensed Optician, A.B.O. & N.C.L.E. Certified

Yo u r E y e s M a t t e r T o U s ! Eye exams provided by an Independent Doctor of Optometry

(203) 265-1541 58 Center St., Wallingford wallingfordoptical.com

Corporate Special

Place a lunch order of $50.00 or more at Rosa’s, and the person who picks up, shall receive a $5.00 credit toward their meal.* No coupon needed. Pass it around the office and Everyone Gets a Free Lunch! Visit us at rosasdeli.com for details and offer. *No cash value. Does not include taxes or any additional charges. $5.00 will be deducted from total at time of check out. May only be used once aday, per company.

HARBINGERS OF SPRING FOLLOW LONG HARD WINTER By Phyllis S. Donovan I don't know anyone who doesn't greet the arrival of spring with a huge sigh of relief after surviving yet another long hard winter. The downside of having winter snows finally melt away, however, is the revelation of all the damage and detritus that has lain, up to now, buried and thankfully unobserved, beneath snowbanks along the sides of the roads. We have never seen such absolute destruction in our neighborhood as was wreaked throughout our neighborhood by snowplows this year. I'm not talking about an occasional curb dug into when a driver misjudged the side of a road. I'm talking about nearly every other property sporting great chunks of curb ripped up and tossed onto front lawns as well as wide muddy swaths cut into the lawns themselves. Most of the damage happened during one storm near the end of the season. It looked like a demolition derby had rampaged through the neighborhood! Luckily, my husband had the foresight to place a row of flexible red driveway markers all along the front edge of our property to warn the plows away. Our curb, as a result, stayed intact but the widow lady next door suffered great damage to her front yard and who's going to fix that? Recently we read in the newspaper that plow drivers (at least in Southington) are assigned to specific routes and those same drivers, when winter ends, are charged with going back along those routes, accessing any damage they caused and repairing that damage. If that's how things operate in Meriden, it looks like the guy (or guys) assigned to our neighborhood have assured themselves an entire summer of repair work. Another revelation each spring is the trash that has accumulated along our streets and highways. In neighborhoods, people are pretty good about picking up stuff dropped or tossed in front of their houses. But have you driven along Research Parkway recently? We drive that route often bringing outgoing mail down to the big district Post Office just over the Wallingford line. (Letters mailed in the outdoor boxes there are delivered anywhere in Connecticut the very next day which is super service.) All along the length of this largely commercial but still rural strip, the bushes and grassy areas are festooned with discarded plastic, paper and assorted fast food junk tossed from cars and blown to the edges of the road. Right now, with everything flattened by winter, the trash is most noticeable. We always wish a scout troop or other youth group would adopt that stretch of highway and devote a weekend to cleaning it up. Eventually, the reeds, grasses and brush along the way will grow up around the mess and it won't be so noticeable as it molders there. Meanwhile, we despair at the slovenliness of people who drive by there and just toss out debris to desecrate this otherwise attractive strip. Happily, we've noticed that the pair of swan who frequent a small pond along our daily route have once again set up housekeeping in the reeds at the far side of the water. Every spring Mama Swan returns to the same spot to sit faithfully on her nest over there. Last year she hatched three little brown cygnets which she and her mate guarded faithfully all summer, swimming in rank on both sides of the babies until the little ones grew big, turned white and moved on. Now the parents are back, hopefully to start another family for us to watch grow. On the same morning in mid-March that the drifts of purple crocuses blossomed in front of our house, I witnessed a ritual which was clearly a certain sign of the arrival of spring. I was having breakfast at the time and looking out at the usual birdie comings and going on our back deck. It was still a little early for the arrival of the little birds -- the goldfinches, titmice and chickadees -- paying their morning visit. The only ones out there were two mourning doves sitting complacently side by side on the deck railing. As I watched, the larger of the two started pecking at his feathers, transforming his usual sleek appearance into a messy mass of spiky tufts that made him look at least half again his usual size. While he was doing this, his partner turned her back on him and pretended she was unaware of his transformation. When she finally took a peek at him, she obviously liked what she saw and started snuggling up to him. She moved over right next to him on the railing and he would indifferently back away a little. She'd try to snuggle again and he'd move away. After three or four of these snuggle moves, she reached over and pecked his chest a couple of times, wagging her tail up and down in agitation. Eventually they touched beaks together and she turned her back to him, ruffling her tail feathers as she went. Overcome by desire, he pounced on her back, wings spread and had his way with her. Thus sated, he backed off and sat in stunned silence while she coolly gazed off in the opposite direction from where he sat. I figured that brief encounter was the end of it, but no, as soon as his ruffled feathers sleeked back down into place, he started plucking them up again and repeated the whole process. Better than National Geographic! After the second go-around, the little lady flew off, soon followed by her smitten suitor. So yes, in spring, birds do it, I imagine bees do it, and lately squirrels have been chasing each other in pairs through our back woods and round and round the trunk of the huge old maple tree that grows in our neighbor's yard just across the fence from our bird feeders which they love. Spring is especially welcome this year. I've been just about supporting Greenbackers with my purchases of huge bags of sunflower seeds, cakes of suet and bags of the thistle seed the finches love. Those finches can empty a large cylinder feeder in less than a week with the entire flock perched all at once at every opening of the feeder. My payback for that comes within a month or so when they start turning yellow. It's like having a backyard of canaries flying around. I know that some robins stay north all winter, our grandchildren in Ridgefield counted a flock of 14 on their lawn not long ago. But I never see them. So when I spy the first robin in our neighborhood each spring, I'm always thrilled. Of course, it would help if this year he hadn't chosen to risk life and limb by slowly flying low right in the path of my car as I was driving up our hill as if to say "Look at me! Look at me!" We had hoped to get down to Florida this past winter to visit our numerous friends who have relocated there, but there was always some reason we couldn't get together on a two-week period in our busy lives when neither of us had a commitment. So here it is spring, we never went to Florida and now it is too late to even consider it. Why would we want to go south now anyways when it's starting to warm up around here and things are happening? Spring is always my favorite time of year and I'd hate to miss a single day of it. Not that we could really complain about the winter we've just come through. I think it was probably one of the prettiest winters we've had in years. With the snow remaining on the ground for most of the entire season, we had more than our share of bright sunny days with blue skies that made us feel happy to be New Englanders. My Canadian grandfather always said that winters were healthier when the ground was covered (with snow, that is.) I believe he was right. We survived this past winter without even a head cold (after last year being really floored by an awful flu that petered off into violent vertigo attacks.) So here we are going into a lovely stretch of warm spring days and loving every moment of it. Spring is its own reward and we'll never forget it!

Page 21 April 2009

Happy Easter

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City of Meriden Photo Contest Winners

Meriden Junior Girl Scout Troop 66070 proudly announces the winners of the City of Meriden Photo Contest that benefited 1711 Solomon Goffe House and the Meriden Humane Society. 1st Place Michelle Hansen, Maloney High School Student 2nd Place Christian Adamik, Maloney High School Student 3rd Place Katie Filippides, Ben Franklin Student A traveling exhibit featuring the beautiful photographs of all entries will be held at the Sandman Gallery, 39 West Main Street, Meriden. Dates to be determined and publicized. Traveling next to Gallery 53, 53 Colony Street, Meriden. Dates to be determined and publicized. A reception honoring the photographers will be held at the Meriden Public Library (date to be determined and announced- all entrants will be notified by phone and email). There will be a collection for donations to the 1711 Solomon Goffe House and the Meriden Humane Society during that event. The Junior Girl Scouts had a fun time judging the photographs. Emily, a 5th grader at Israel Putnam said: "It was fun to put together the photo contest and to help out the Solomon Goffe House and the Meriden Humane Society." Jessica, a 4th grader at the school agreed by adding: "helping out the Solomon Goffe House and the Humane Society was an important part of it." Destiny, a 5th grader at Putnam shared that "the photos we so beautiful and outstanding"! The Troop agreed that they would like to do this again next year. The Girl Scout Troop would like to thank Mrs. Jessica Sperry, Fine Arts Department Chair of Maloney High School for encouraging some of her talented photography students to partake in the contest. The entries were amazingly beautiful. Maloney High School has some very creative and talented students. You will see proof of that if you visit the Traveling Exhibit or the Reception, which all citizens are invited to.The Girls Scouts also want to thank Lisa Nosal of Frame and Art in Wallingford for her generous donation of time and talent in matting a few of the photo submissions. The donation box along with the Wish Lists is still up at the Meriden Public Library if you are interested in donating to either organization. We appreciate your generosity.

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Page 22 April 2009

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One lucky kitty and a gutsy young lady! (Submitted by Barbara Sherburne on behalf of Mama Gin) I have your email in front of me, and just have to laugh at those big fat cats having fun like little kittens. When we had cats on the farm or in Brookfield some years later, a friend gave us two tigers, and they played like that as kittens. They slept curled up together on the lawn tractor seat. One day one of them disappeared. Quite a long time later, probably a month, he came home, but he had been in a fight and had an infection on his chest. I went to a large discount store we had in Brookfield, Ohio, at that time, and asked them for ether, an anesthetic. Of course they wanted to know what I wanted it for, and I told them. I think I had to sign a paper, but they let me have a small amount. When I got home, I put the cat on a long counter surface in our bathroom and cleaned him up, especially the area which was infected, and cut the hair as close as possible around the injury. Ready with fine fishing line filament and a sewing needle and lots of alcohol to disinfect, I then used a tea strainer covered by a 3x3 gauze pad and dripped the ether onto the tea strainer, which I held over the kitty's nose. When he was asleep, I sewed him up, being careful to just keep him only slightly under. When he would begin to move, I would just drip enough ether to keep him relaxed. Anyway, it was successful. I made him a jacket out of one of Don's socks to keep him from licking or scratching at the wound. Just before this all happened, I had graduated from the Licensed Practical Nursing School in Salem, Ohio, and had been present when a child was having a tonsillectomy, and that is the way they put the little boy to sleep. Well yesterday we had a program here which was a married couple who played harmonicas. They were just fantastic and played for more than an hour, with talking and joking in between. They are call the "Hot Shots." [Virginia Althouse lives at Copeland Oaks in Sebring, Ohio, and will turn 93 on June 12th. She is affectionately called Mama Gin as she is the adoptive mother of my biological brother Ed, who was given up for adoption not long after my sister and I were.]

We're all in this Together: Surviving Job Loss during these Tough Economic Times

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By Jennifer Jenkins An idea for an article popped into my head yesterday (March 24, 2009) - "We're all in this together: Surviving job loss during these tough economic times." It's funny that others, including the President stated the same phrase: "We're all in this together," hours later, in his televised address to the nation. I guess what the metaphysicians say is true, that we are all connected on some cosmic level and that what affects one person ultimately affects another. If you watch or hear the news these days, you realize that a number of people have been let go from their jobs and are feeling anxious about their current situation. I want to say first and foremost: You are not alone and that you will survive. I know from my own personal experiences that tough times do make you stronger and that when you are feeling extremely low that that is the time to tell yourself: "I must not quit. This situation is only temporary. By the grace of God, I will survive this, be better off for it, and appreciate all the blessings I have." From personal experience and wisdom, I can also stress the importance of keeping yourself busy after losing a job. It's one thing to give your self a few days to nurture yourself; it's another to give up and become a permanent couch potato. A wise thing to do is to keep a routine. Get up early, as if you were going to work. Shower, dress and have breakfast. And, then hit the road. Go to the library or some other productive place where you can work on your job search. I have discovered that there are a number of libraries in this beautiful State of Connecticut that are rich in resources, from computers and free access to the internet to job hunting and computer training workshops. Of course, among other things, nearly all of them have career resource books to loan out. All you need is a library card. Keeping yourself up to date on the latest job and career trends is also important. I learn quite a lot from listening to Tory Johnson, the employment specialist featured on ABC's Good Morning America. One of the things she often stresses is doing productive things while unemployed, such as volunteer work, which impresses potential employers. You never know unless you try. Perhaps, the volunteer work, as she indicated this past week, can lead to a job. A positive attitude is also important. You would be amazed by how others will judge you when you change your demeanor. When one exhibits a positive attitude, one tends to walk and speak with confidence. Put yourself in an employer's shoes. Would you want to hire someone with a glum demeanor? I think not. Remember, they want to hire someone who is going to make a positive contribution to their company. Ok. Perhaps, you're not feeling very positive right now. Fake it. Say positive affirmations to yourself until you feel and exude positive vibes. By changing your thoughts, you do change your life. It may take time, but with discipline and attention to your thoughts, you will create a positive change in your life. Think of this process as maintaining a healthy garden. You never want to let weeds take control. Consider negative thoughts as weeds and your mind as the space where you grow your garden. Remember -- To have any healthy vibrant garden you must nurture and tend to it in order to reap a fruitful harvest. Do the same with your thoughts and you will ultimately reap abundant blessings as well. Take time to nurture yourself. You don't have visit a spa and spend a lot of money. Whatever gives your soul peace, from taking a bubble bath to a lovely walk in the park, is fine. Remember taking time to take care of yourself is ultimately going to help you stay centered, which is extremely important in terms of your job search. You want to walk into an interview feeling calm and centered, not anxious and scattered. Also, stay connected to people in your life. For all you know, they are probably in need of someone like you for support as well. Speaking of support, how about starting a support group of people you know who are also out of work. Uniting during these difficult times helps people become more empowered. And, remember, "We are all in this together," and together we will muster through these challenging times and be the better off for it.

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By: Staci M. Roy, Executive Director of the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center (ACCC) In these tough economic times we are trying to offer many programs and events at the Center that are affordable or even free and that may help to take you away from it all for a just a bit right in your own community. In April we will be hosting a multitude of events for all ages to enjoy: Valerie Bubon, a teacher of Opera will be presenting "Mozart's Magic Flute" for ages 8 to 80 on Wednesday, April 15th at 1:30, admission is $5.00 and children under 12 are free. This is a video presentation and will be a wonderful way to get some culture with your child during their school vacation. The Augusta Curtis Concert Band (ACCB) will be doing a benefit concert for the Center on Sunday, April 19th in Hubbard Park on the tennis courts under a large tent at 3:30pm. Admission will be $5.00 and all proceeds go to benefit the Center and the Band. The band is made up of about 42 musicians ranging in age from 13 to 80 and at all skill levels of playing. Most of the band members come from Meriden, but other communities are represented as well. ACCB will be playing many familiar concert band tunes to entertain audiences of all ages. We are also looking for a sponsor for this event, if interested please call 203-639-2856 or e-mail us accc@ci.meriden.ct.us. Monday, April 20th at 7:00pm we will be featuring the Hartt School of Music's Classical Guitar Department. These guitarists are some of the best to have ever played before our audiences. These students have master the guitar and are bringing a new level of entertainment to the Meriden area. This program is also donation of choice and worth so much more. The Hartt School of Music is to Connecticut what Julliard is to New York and how lucky we are to have them performing at our Center not only once but twice this month. On Sunday, April 26th at 3pm the 20/20 Performance group will be doing a classical performance that will feature the best string players of the school. These students have to try out not only to get into Hartt, but also to get into the 20/20/ program. Admission is donation of choice. Meriden's Arts & Cultural Center is At the Heart of it all and we are hoping you will attend on of our many events. The Center is also hosting events call Nits Out at the Augusta usually on a Friday or Saturday evening at 8pm featuring live entertainment and cabaret style. We provide ice, mixers, and water and good fun. Bring your food, friends, and drinks and enjoy an inexpensive evening out, tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The next Niter Out will be Friday, May 8th featuring Daniel Taylor, a young musician from Maine. Daniel sold out the last time he was with us, so get you tickets soon! The Center is here for everyone to enjoy and use. Please help us to serve you by attending an event, becoming a member, making a donation becoming a volunteer, or using us for your next special events. For more information or to see what is coming up At the Augusta go to www.curtiscutluralcenter.org. Keep your hearts in the arts and The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center at the Heart of it all!!

Page 23 April 2009

"Sheltering an Animal's Perspective" by Gregory M. Simpson The voiceless need your voice. Have you ever considered becoming an advocate for animals? Perhaps you never thought that as one person you could make a difference. Find your inspiration. Years ago, I was inspired by the words of a ten-year-old girl which were stenciled on the Earth Pavilion's wall at Florida's EPCOT Center. They read, "I may be only one person but I can be one person who makes a difference." Radio personality, Paul Harvey, queried, "Ever occur to you why some of us can be this much concerned with animal suffering? Because government is not. Why not? Animals don't vote." Since people are the ones who vote, you need to be a voice for the voiceless. There are exceptions, of course, of those people in government who do care about animals. One man said in the 1800s, "I am in favour of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being." His name was Abraham Lincoln. Unfortunately, today's typical politician is no Abraham Lincoln, so you need to be the voice for the voiceless. Animal advocates before you have included luminaries like humanitarian, Albert Schweitzer, who reasoned, "Ethics in our Western world has hitherto been largely limited to the relations of man to man. But that is a limited ethics. We need a boundless ethics which will include the animals also." So, what can one person do? Plenty. Start by being well-informed. Read. Resources come in many forms - newspapers, magazines, books, web-sites. One recommended newspaper is Animal People. Great books abound and include The Extended Circle: A Common Place Book of Animal Rights, edited by Jon Wynne-Tyson. Two classics are Animal Liberation by Peter Singer and The Case for Animal Rights by Tom Regan. Other superb books include: Man Kind? by Cleveland Amory, In the Company of Animals by James Serpell, Dominion by Matthew Scully, Animal Rights & Human Morality by Bernard Rollin and Rattling the Cage by Steven Wise. Once you have explored areas of possible animal advocacy, choose one that interests you and join an advocacy group. For example, if protection of feral cats is your interest, there are local groups in Connecticut which specialize in helping feral cats, such as Catales (Middletown), Animal Alliance Welfare League (New Britain), MEOW (Litchfield), and Greater New Haven Cat Project (New Haven). On the national level, there is Alley Cat Allies. To be more widespread in your advocacy, consider joining the statewide Animal Welfare Federation of Connecticut (AWFCT). On a national level, you may want to explore membership in such organizations as the American Society for the Protection of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Animal Rights Network, or Friends of Animals, to name just a few. Many organizations have e-mail lists to alert you when to make contact with legislators about pending legislation. Be prolific. Write letters to the editor. Editors especially like to print letters which take issue with something on the editorial page, i.e., another letter, an editorial, or an op. ed. piece. Second best are responses to news columns. Although animal issues can be emotional topics, don't be overemotional in your writing. Animal advocates are already frequently viewed as being all emotion and no logic. Present new and factual data. Provide sources. Reinforce a professional demeanor by citing your credentials, if relevant. If you have a related advanced degree, list it. If you have a pertinent title, use it. If you have an animal group affiliation, mention it. Lacking expert status, consider using supporting quotations. Know the list of your local, state and federal legislators. Contact them about animal issues. The best method of contact is in person, followed by letter or post card, then e-mails and phone calls. These contacts are critical and your legislator views each contact as representing a wider constituency. Learn which legislators or candidates are pro-animal and vote accordingly. The good news is that the current Connecticut federal congressional delegation is staunchly pro-animal. Their voting record is published regularly by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). When there is a matter before city hall or the state legislature that affects animals, be there to provide testimony. If that is too intimidating, then be there to support those who do. Donate your time and money. Organizations need both volunteers and funds to do animal advocacy work. Many run on shoestring budgets. Research which groups pay exorbitant executive salaries as opposed to those that pay modest salaries or operate with volunteers. This information can be obtained through the publication Animal People. Join protest marches. Get involved. As anthropologist, Margaret Mead, said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Above all, stay focused on the words of one of the greatest change agents of all time, Gandhi, who said, "Whatever you do may seem insignificant, but it is most important that you do it." Let this be your inspiration. Be a voice for the voiceless. For the animals, Gregory M. Simpson Gregory Simpson's animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers' Association.

A living planet is a much more complex metaphor for deity than just a bigger father with a bigger fist. If an omniscient, all-powerful Dad ignores your prayers, it's taken personally. Hear only silence long enough, and you start wondering about his power. His fairness. His very existence. But if a world mother doesn't reply, Her excuse is simple. She never claimed conceited omnipotence. She has countless others clinging to her apron strings, including myriad species unable to speak for themselves. To Her elder offspring She says - go raid the fridge. Go play outside. Go get a job. Or, better yet, lend me a hand. I have no time for idle whining. ~David Brin

What You Need To Know

We are pleased to announce that we will be having our annual golf tournament on Friday, May 15, 2009, at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford. Please visit the updated Spirit of CJ Foundation website at http://www.spiritofcj.org for information on this year's golf tournament to including photos from past tournaments, photos of CJ, and news articles/press releases. For more information or to sign up please call 203-284-1445 or email info@spriritofcj.org.

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MidState Medical Center--April programs April 21, 10:45 am North Haven Senior Center The News on Pneumonia --Risk factors, symptoms, treatment and the vaccine. Presented by Usman Ramzan, MD Call 239-5432 to register. April 21, 6:30 pm Wallingford Public Library Dessert and a Dock: Staying Abreast of Your Breast Cancer Risk Are you at risk for breast cancer? Discover the hereditary link to breast cancer, learn about genetic testing, and find out how MidState's Risk Assessment Clinics can help identify high risk women in the community. Presented by Kathy Clements, RNONC and Rajani Nadkarni, MD Call 265-6754 to register. April 29, 10 am Wallingford Senior Center The Loss of Balance--If you suffer from dizziness, come learn about your symptoms and what treatment is available for vertigo and other related conditions. Presenter Bob Rusignuolo Call 265-7753 to register. The deadline for our May issue is April 25th for all stories, photos, news, events and more. Email to andy@peoplespressnews.com.

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Page 24 April 2009

Wallingford Senior Center News and Events

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ACT NOW

Hunting and Fishing License Fees May Increase

There is a chance that the fees for Hunting and Fishing Licenses may go up. Better to be safe than sorry and save some money - pick up your license today at the current rate. To purchase a license stop by Room 108 in the Wallingford Town Hall located at 45 South Main Street. We are open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm. If you have any questions please call 203.294.2145. Easel Works offers Art Classes * Adult * Kinderart and Young Artist

Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at www.wlfdseniorctr.com MEDICARE & SOCIAL SECURITY ISSUES on Monday, April 13, 1:00 PM Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro's staff and representatives from the Social Security Administration and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will be present to discuss Social Security issues and answer your questions. This is your chance to provide input and also to get your own questions addressed. Please sign up to attend. 8TH ANNUAL SHOWCASE OF ART on April 30, May 1 & 2, 2009 We invite you to display your artwork, handcrafts, and original creations at the Wallingford Senior Center's 8th Annual Showcase of Art & Talent which will be held in conjunction with the Jordan Abeshouse Memorial Student Art Show Thursday through Saturday, April 30-May 2. Even if you have exhibited in past shows and do not have any new artwork, we still want you to participate. This will be a wonderful opportunity for the public to view your works of art! Sign up by April 17, to participate. ART SHOW Thursday, April 30, 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Friday, May 1, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday, May 2, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Featuring the artwork of members of the Wallingford Senior Center and students of the Wallingford Public School System OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS on Tuesday, April 14, 2:00 PM Are you overwhelmed by all of the medications in the pharmacy aisles? Come join us for a presentation on over-thecounter drugs by Doctor of Pharmacy candidates from the University of Connecticut. Bring your questions! Please register to attend. 50 GREAT THINGS ABOUT GETTING OLD on Thursday, April 16, 5:00-6:00 PM As Bette Davis once said, "Getting old is not for sissies." Beverly Kidder of the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut will help us look at the lighter side of getting older. Beverly will show us that age comes with some perks and that we can (and should) laugh at ourselves sometimes. Register in advance if you plan to attend. LOSS OF BALANCE: WHEN DIZZINESS BECOMES A PROBLEM Wednesday, April 29, 10:00 AM More than fifty percent of adults will suffer from dizziness or balance problems in their lifetime. Correcting your balance can reduce the likelihood of falls, the leading cause of injury among adults over age 65. Come learn the signs and symptoms, tests, diagnoses, and current treatments available for balance problems. This program is sponsored by MidState Medical Center's Balance and Hearing Institute. Please register to attend. LORETTA LAROCHE: THE JOY OF STRESS on Monday, April 20, 1:30 PM Need a good laugh? Loretta LaRoche's "The Joy of Stress" is just what the doctor ordered! In this video presentation, humorist and stress management specialist Loretta LaRoche will show us how to combat stress with humor, wisdom and patience. COMPUTER CLASS REGISTRATION Thursday, April 9, 1:00 - 3:00 PM and Tuesday, April 14, 9:30 - 11:30 AM DIABETIC COOKING DEMONSTRATION on Wednesday, April 22, 10:00-11:30 AM Learn nutritional food preparation without sacrificing taste at a Diabetic Cooking Demonstration presented by a registered nutritionist. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and to sample the food! Space is limited, so sign up early. This program is sponsored by ConnectiCare and Better Living Now and Abbott Labs. SOCIAL SERVICES NO-CHARGE DENTAL SERVICES The Connecticut "Mission of Mercy", a dental clinic for people of all ages in Connecticut will be held: Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, from 5:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., at the Yale University Athletic Center, 70 Tower Parkway. Appointments CANNOT be made in advance. Dentists will be available to provide x-rays, fillings and extractions at NO CHARGE. This is offered once a year by the State of Connecticut. FUEL ASSISTANCE March 16 was the last date for authorizations and deliveries for deliverable fuel. Applications are still being accepted for all forms of fuel and, if approved, deliveries made after November 1 and before March 16 may be paid through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program. Anyone who may be eligible is encouraged to apply. For additional information or to schedule an appointment please call 265 7753. CONNPACE PROGRAM ConnPACE is a state-funded prescription drug program. Each year the income limit guidelines are adjusted. In January 2009, the changes are as follows. $25,100 for a single person and $33,800 for a couple Beneficiaries who have ConnPACE must select a Medicare Part D plan. ConnPACE will still allow beneficiaries to select the Medicare D plan of their choice. There are no asset limits. Anyone who meets these guidelines is encouraged to apply. For an appointment or additional information, please call Eileen Flynn, SW, at 265 7753. VETERANS SERVICES on Wednesday, April 28, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753. WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? INTERFAITH VOLUNTEERS CAREGIVERS TRAINING Tuesday, April 21,1:00-3:00 p.m. Do you have some time and would like to make a difference in a person's life? Many seniors have no family in the area and are unable to get to doctors or shopping without someone to provide transportation. Other seniors living alone are isolated and would appreciate someone to visit and provide some socialization. You could make a big difference in someone's life just by offering a few hours to meet some of these needs. A training session is being provided by Barbara Barlok from Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers on Tuesday, April 21. Please consider attending by registering at 265 7533.

Spring II Session Registration at the Meriden YMCA

Register NOW for Spring and Summer Classes. Ask about our Summer Kids Creative Art Camp & Summer Nature Art Camp

EASEL WORKS

Creative Art Studio & Gallery

294-1548

2 Quinnipiac Street, Wallingford

The Meriden YMCA's Spring II Session begins April 20th and continues until June 6th. Full members may register beginning April 6th. Program members may begin registering April 11th. The Meriden YMCA offers pre-school Tball, swim lessons, swim team, gymnastics, racquetball lessons/league, karate, youth and adult golf lessons, adaptive sports, middle school strength training, hatha yoga, power yoga, pilates, aqua aerobics, South Meriden Teen Center, and the cardiac rehabilitation program. In addition the Y now offers Massage Therapy for members and nonmembers. For more information please call (203) 235-6386. About the Meriden YMCA Since1866 the Meriden YMCA has helped its members build a healthy spirit, mind, and body. The Meriden YMCA is located at 110 West Main Street in Meriden.

New Publications on Meriden Schools Meriden Children First announces the publication of two new resources. One is the 2009 Guide to the Meriden School Budget. This piece clearly explains the budget-setting process and what goes into creating a budget for the Meriden school system. Important information to have in this tough economic climate. The other report is called 'Meriden Schools: Keys to Success'. It describes the strategies used by eight Meriden elementary schools in which proficiency levels in reading and math have been maintained or increased over the past three years. Three of these schools have achieved 'safe harbor' status, a gold star in the world of national education standards. Note that these gains are more than double than the State of Connecticut. Both reports can be downloaded at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org. Copies are also available at the Meriden Public Library and Meriden Childen First, 105 Miller Street. For more information contact 630-3566.

10th Annual Meriden Rotary Club Daff. Festival 5K Road Race & Kids' Fun Run The event will be held Sunday, April 19th 10am at Hubbard Park in Meriden. For more information contact Cliff at 203.537.2728 or by email at cliff@huntersamb.com.

New Help Wanted Ads These ads are free to anyone looking for employees. This is a service to our readers who are looking for work. Look for even more in next issue. If you have a job opening and would like to place an ad email me at andy@peoplespressnews.com or call 203.235.9333. If you would like them posted on our website asap - they are also free.

Staff Physical Therapist positions open in the following locations:

Watertown Avon Groton New London Willimantic Tolland Bridgeport Shelton Monroe Newtown All these positions are for a sports medicine facility ortho outpatient. Excellent growth potential / benefits with sign on bonus. I also have 3 Physical Therapist positions in rehab home care with locations in East Lyme area, Norwalk / Brookfield area, as well as Greater Hartford area. Excellent benefits with sign on bonus as well as monthly retention bonus. 3 Occupational Therapist home care positions located in Brookfield, Norwalk and Danielson. Excellent benefits / sign on bonus as well as monthly retention bonus. Contact Julie Grey www.tggstaffing.com 203/537-6412 jgrey@tggstaffing.com

Appraiser Needed: Experienced Residential Appraiser wanted for busy appraisal office. Appraiser has to be able to handle

Wallingford Spring Clean Up Schedule The Department of Public Works will begin the Spring Clean Up on Monday, April 20, 2009, for public streets in all sections of Wallingford. Residents are asked to place any materials curbside no later than Sunday, April 19, 2009. Only brush, wood and leaves will be collected. These materials must meet the following guidelines: Branches and twigs only. No branch more than four feet long or six inches in diameter will be accepted. Brush must be tied separately in small bundles. Dimensional lumber, such as twoby-four-inch lumber or plywood, may not exceed four feet in length or width. Wood must be tied separately in small bundles. Absolutely no wood containing creosote will be picked up. Leaves must be in paper yard waste bags. No brush, twigs, debris or plastic bags will be accepted. Masking tape only is acceptable to seal bags. Items placed at the curb must be light enough for one man to put in a truck. This will be a one-time collection. The Department of Public Works will not return to a street that has already been visited for the collection. Those residents who miss the pick up may take their leaves and brush to the Compost Area at the Recycling Center on John Street. Information: 203 294-2105.

I would feel more optimistic about a bright future for man if he spent less time proving that he can outwit Nature and more time tasting her sweetness and respecting her seniority. ~Elwyn Brooks White, Essays of E.B. White, 1977

eight to ten assignments per week. Completed reports must be sent in a timely manner. Appraiser must be able to cover many counties of Connecticut. Our appraisers are expected to have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Email resumes and samples of work to carolc@rcico.com . Thank you for your business. Carol Carbutti/Office Manager RCI Property Appraisal Co. 155 S. Orchard Street Wallingford, CT 06492 203.265.5525 - tel 203.265.3050 - fax www.rcico.com carolc@rcico.com

CNA/ Caregivers P/T & F/T Caring individuals needed for seniors who want to stay in their own home. Non-medical duties include but not limited to: Personal Care Transportation Incontinent Care Laundry Meal Preparation Medication Reminders Respite Care Errands etc. Please respond via e-mail to heathersabota@comfortkeepers.com

Page 25 April 2009

2009 City of Meriden Easter Egg Hunt Hubbard Park Bandshell Saturday, April 11th Ages - Birth to Three 10:00am Four to five 10:30am Six & Seven 11:00am Eight to ten 11:30am Children are asked to bring a basket or bag to collect candy. Adult assistance will be permitted for birth to three year olds only!!! Event will be held rain or shine

COMMERCIAL * RESIDENTIAL * INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES * * * * * *

New and Existing Construction Service Upgrade Repair Phone and TV Wiring Fire Damage Repairs 45’ Bucket Truck Service Emergency Service “No Job too Big or Too Small”

Behavioral Health & Substance Abuse Treatment - Rushford Center Inc. is one of the leading, notfor-profit behavioral healthcare providers in Connecticut, dedicated to meeting the substance abuse and behavioral health needs of children, adults and families. We offer our staff a flexible work schedule, as well as a competitive salary. Interested applicants should view open positions & apply directly at www.RUSHFORD.org No walkin's please. EOE-AA

Fully Insured and Licensed CT Lic. #104727

People’s Press Crossword April 2009 Answers. Puzzle by Ruth Gordon.

The deadline for our May issue is April 25th! Don’t forget to send a story or photo about Mom for Mother’s Day!

Enter To Win A Book Collection

Deadline for the next issue is April 25, 2009

If you have an upcoming event in the months ahead send it in it would be our honor to help you AND we will send out each week’s events in our weekly email newsletter to our on-line subscribers to give you even more exposure. Sign up - it’s free! Go to www.peoplespressnews.com and click subsribe! There are several ways to submit: Email: andy@peoplespressnews.com Web: www.peoplespressnews.com Mail: The People’s Press P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492

For Advertising call 203.235.9333

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Page 26 April 2009

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA & UNITED WAY OF WALLINGFORD /MERIDEN BE WATER SAFE PROGRAM A 1 WEEK PROGRAM APRIL 20-24, 2009 Morning and evening lesson times - WATER SAFETY AND SWIM LESSONS FOR CHILDREN AGES 4 THROUGH 6TH GRADE. FOR NON SWIMMERS AND BEGINNER SWIMMERS. $5 PER CHILD CALL FOR DETAILS- 203 269 4497 Come in to register. Also a Huggies Corporation funded program for parents and children ages 1-3 years old. Will run April 20-24 from 6:30PM -7PM each day. $5 per parent & child pair

Get Ready to... Jumble, Rummage & Tag! No matter what the name of the Sale, it will be on sale at Yalesville United Methodist Church! Come Ramble and Save!

Friday, April 24th 4pm - 7pm Saturday, April 25th 9am - 2pm

Supper served on Friday and Lunch on Saturday cooked by our Master Chefs!

UNICOONAROO By Dorothy Adair Gonick At the edge of a wide spreading meadow, in the shelter of the Catalpa grove, mother Raccoon busily stitched the big catalpa leaves into party hats. Above, catalpa beans hung like fringe from the branches. She had a pile of the beans nearby, ready for juicy snacking. Her two baby raccoons were playing hide-and-seek with their friend Joey, while Joey's mother, Roo Kangaroo, kept watch to see that none strayed. The breezes ruffled their fur as they leaped and played around the meadow. Jumping in and out of Mama Roo's pouch playing peek-a-boo was a new game for the baby raccoons, and they loved it. The wind was blowing the wispy clouds into a big swirly mass, known as 'mare's tails', which blew down around their heads and dropped Eunice the unicorn down among them. She pranced gracefully all around the group. Excited cries from everyone welcomed her to their party. Mother raccoon gave each a party hat to wear, and Eunice's fitted right over her special horn and began glowing a bright blue, much to their amazement. As they were munching the Catalpa beans, the breezes suddenly became strong and grew into an angry wind-black and furious and whirled upon the party. Mamma Roo quickly tucked the little ones into her pouch; Eunice ordered Mother Raccoon and Mama Roo to climb on her back and to hold on tightly to her mane as she was afraid the wind would blow them away. The wind swirled around the group, picking them up and twirling them high in the air, faster and faster as it spun higher and higher into the sky. The friends huddled tightly together, clinging fast, hearts pounding with fright, the babies crying for their mothers. Suddenly, the wind ceased, dropping them in a tangled heap back into the catalpa grove. They lay sprawled in that tangled heap and tried to get free of one another, but it was impossible. They had clung together so tightly that each was squashed into the others, and finally when able to stand, they saw that they had melded into one new creature. A Unicoonaroo! Mother raccoon looked all around, calling for her babies. The three youngsters pushed their way up in Mama Roo's pouch and peeked out, calling, "Mama! Mama!" There on their heads were pointy unicorn horns where the party hats had been. Mother Raccoon's party hat had also become a horn, but what had happened to Joey's mama? Her pouch was still around them, but where was the rest of Mama Roo? And their friend Eunice was not all there either, and her tail had raccoon stripes all along it. They had truly become a magical animal. Today, if you look carefully, and are very quiet, you might find Unicoonaroo in that special catalpa grove, munching catalpa beans. You might even be invited to come and party.

Meriden Health Department - Keeping You Healthy in April

Corner of Church Street (Rt. 68) & New Place St.

This edition of “The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your Views” serves the needs of the communities of Wallingford and Meriden, Connecticut. For safety reasons we do not publish the last name of artists/writers under the age of 15. 5% of all annual net proceeds are donated in kind or in financial donation to local charities and organizations. This newspaper is not affiliated with any other newspaper.

Publishers:

Andrew& Dawn Reynolds peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com Managing Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Copy Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Advertising Andy Reynolds andy@peoplespressnews.com Web Site Web Solutions, LLC Writers YOU WRITE IT....WE PRINT IT!!!

“The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your Views” publications are published by: DNA, LLC P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com www.peoplespressnews.com • Phone (203) 235-9333 Advertising (203) 235-9333 • Fax Number (203) 294.8808 The People's Press,Your Town, Your News, Your Views and all versions or portions of said name are ©Copyright DNA,LLC. 1999-2009 All Text, Logos, Images and other content in print, web or in any way or form are ©Copyright DNA, LLC 1999-2009 All Rights Reserved The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher and DNA, LLC. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or submissions. All items contained herein, including advertisements or portions thereof, may not be reproduced in any way, shape or form without the written consent of the publisher. All submissions whether by mail, fax, email or any other means become the property of The People’s Press and DNA, LLC and may be used in any media it so chooses. By submitting to this paper you agree to these terms and release The People’s Press and DNA, LLC from any financial obligations or notifications for any future use of any of said submissions. The People’s Press will make every effort to see that all advertising copy is correctly printed. The publisher assumes no responsibility for typographical errors in advertising, advertising inadvertently left out; but will gladly reprint, without charge, that part of an advertisement is which any error may have occurred, provided that a claim is made within five days of publication. The publisher takes no responsibility for statements or claims made in any advertisement. Any copy or images designed or developed by The People’s Press are ©Copyright DNA,LLC and may not be used in any other medium. All Rights Reserved By advertising within The People’s Press, you agree to these terms.

Women's Total Cholesterol Screening Free total cholesterol screenings are available to women who live in Meriden. A screening will be held on April 30 from 1:30-3:30pm. Screenings are held at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street. Normal total cholesterol levels are under 200. If your total screening comes back over 200, we will recommend that you see your doctor for a follow-up test, which will tell you how much "good" and "bad" cholesterol is in your body. The Community Health Educator will contact you by phone approximately 1 week to 10 days after your total screening to see what measures you took or are going to take to lower your cholesterol. Appointments for the screening are required, and are first come, first serve. Call 630-4234 to make your appointment. Screenings are funded by a women's healthy heart grant through the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Free Community Presentations Diabetes and Your Heart Health - April 1, from 6-7pm at the Meriden Public Library. Kathy Wietrak from MidState Medical Center's Diabetes Center will be the presenter. Diabetic-friendly snacks will be served. Healthy Eating on the Go - April 21, from 6:00-7:00pm at the Meriden Public Library. Learn how to make healthy choices while eating outside of the home. Healthy snacks will be served, and free fast food nutrition guides will be distributed.Call the Community Health Education office at 630-4238 for more information and to RSVP for these events.

Meriden Public Library Children's Library Is Pleased To Announce A New Museum Pass. Through the generous donations by The Friends of the Meriden Public Library we have a variety of museum passes available with reduced rates or free admission. Our newest addition is "The Mystic Seaport Pass". This pass allows a family in FREE for the day. Museum passes circulate through the Children's Library and Reference Desk. As you plan your vacations check out our website for our list of passes and activities or call the Meriden Public Library Children's Library at (203) 630-6347.

Upcoming Events at The Augustis Curtis Cultural Center! The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, Meriden will be hosting the following events in the month of April: Mozart's Magic Flute "Mozart's Magic Flute" for kids of all ages 8 to 80's will be Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at 1:30pm. Program to be presented by Valerie Bubon, lecturer and teacher of Exploring Opera. At 1:30, a pre-performance talk will be given and the opera will begin at 2:00 on the big screen. Admission is $5.00 for adults and children under 12 free. BENEFIT CONCERT BY THE AUGUSTA CURTIS CONCERT BAND The Augusta Curtis Concert Band will be performing on Sunday, April 19th at 3:30 pm on the tennis courts under the tent at Hubbard Park, West Main Street, Meriden. More details to follow, save the date and support Meriden's Arts & Cultural Center. This event is part of the Pre-Daffodil Festival weekends events in

Hubbard Park. Classical Guitar Program "Classical Guitar Program " Music From Around the World " presented by Hartt School of Music on Monday April 20th at 7:00pm. Program to be announced. Admission is donation of choice.

HARTT School of Music 20/20 Program Concert HARTT School of Music 20/20 Program Concert will be held Sunday, April 26th at 3pm. Program to be announced and admission is donation of choice. These are the top string students of the Hartt School of Music that will be performing various works of art. Come enjoy a program filled with a varied selection of quintet & quartet pieces. For more information on any of the events listed or to get more information call 203-639-2856 or go to website www.curtisculturalcenter.org

Page 27 April 2009

The deadline for the May 2009 issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is April 25th for all submissions. Don't forget to send your Mother's Day Photo Wish - look for the form in this issue. Email your stories, news, celebrations and photos to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Sign up to be a subscriber with www.peoplespressnews.com for updates, reminders and special offers.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Do ya think they are trying to tell me something????? Photo by Eileen Hunter

Meriden Public Library Children's Library celebrated "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" 40th Birthday with stories, songs, crafts, and a snack. We also unveiled our new "Very Hungry Caterpillar" table which will now make its home in the children's play area. Come visit the Meriden Public Library Children's Room and see our new table along with many other new toys to play with.

From South Africa

Daffodils in bloom at Hubbard Park - Photo by Ernie Larsen

Windsurfers or Kitesurfers in Table Bay with the view of Table Mountain and Cape Town, South Africa in the background. Thanks Jill for sharing!

April Showers bring May Flowers

so does our TOPSOIL & you’ll dig our service.

Complete Residential & Commercial Excavations Septic Systems, Cleaned, Installed & Repaired Water & Sewer Connections - Installed & Repaired Screened Topsoil & Grading

203.269.0135

Page 28 April 2009

MERIDEN FEED FARM • GARDEN • PET SUPPLIES

G R E AT S AV I N G S O N S C O T T S 4 S T E P VA L U E P R O G R A M ! N O W I S T H E T I M E T O S AV E !

1107 Havover Avenue, South Meriden 203.634.9811 The Bronze Wash

$2.00 OFF!! Regular Price - $8.00 Includes: Exterior Wash and Towel Dry

A M A Z I N G S AV I N G S ! Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 4/30/09

The Gold Wash

$2.00 OFF!!

Regular Price - $14.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash, Wheel Brite, Sealer Wax, Triple Foam and Towel Dry

H U G E S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 4/30/09

The Silver Wash

$46.99 5,000 SF $125.99 15,000 SF

*With this Coupon. All specials expire 4/30/09 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

CEDAR MULCH

3CF - 3 FOR $11.97 $35.91 per Yard *With this Coupon. All specials expire 4/30/09 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

RED OR BLACK CEDAR MULCH 3CF - 3 FOR $13.47 $40.41 per Yard

*With this Coupon. All specials expire 4/30/09 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

CLEARANCE SPECIALS ON CAGES, BEDS AND MANY MORE ITEMS! COME IN A TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE ONE TIME SPECIALS!

846 Old Colony Rd., Meriden 237-4414

$2.00 OFF!! Regular Price - $9.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash and Towel Dry

I N C R E D I B L E S AV I N G S ! Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 4/30/09

The Wheel Deal

$2.00 OFF!! Regular Price - $11.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash, Wheel Brite, Sealer Wax and Towel Dry

FA N TA S T I C S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 4/30/09

Interior-Exterior Detail

$5.00 OFF!! Includes: Vacuum, Vinyl Cleaning, Shampoo Carpets and Window Cleaning

C A N ’ T B E AT T H E S AV I N G S ! Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 4/30/09

Bumper to Bumper Detail

$15.00 OFF!! Includes: Exterior Wash, Wax, Vacuum, Vinyl Cleaning, Shampoo Carpets and Window Cleaning! Monday Friday Only

T H E W O R K S AT T H I S P R I C E ? Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 4/30/09