The People's Press August 2008 Issue

Get Happy With It!

By the People . . . For the People Serving Wallingford & Meriden Connecticut. www.peoplespressnews.com Wallingford Flower & Gift Shoppe

190 Center Street. 203.265.1514 August 2008 • Volume 8, Issue 105

The Wallingford Rotary is getting the coals ready for a great time!

The Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra!

Young musicians,e-mail to audition today! meridenartstrust@yahoo.com

52nd Annual Chicken Barbecue The Wallingford Rotary Club will hold its 52nd Annual Chicken Barbecue on the grounds of Gaylord Rehabilitation Center Wednesday, August 6th from 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The menu will include barbecued chicken, native corn on the cob, corn bread, cold soft drinks, and fresh baked cookies. A children's menu of hot dogs, potato chips, a cold soft drink, and cookies will also be available. Music will be provided by the R-Band under the direction of Pat Lignelli and numerous children activities will be available as well. Throughout the event there will be a "hay ride" and also the opportunity to bid on numerous Silent Auction baskets. The F.O.R.D. Classic Car Club will have numerous antique cars on display. Tickets are available from any Rotary Club member or at Gallagher Travel Shoppe, 369 Center Street, Wallingford. Adult tickets are $12.00 and children tickets are $6.00. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club. Additional information can be obtained by calling Craig Fishbein at 203-265-2895 or Roz Gallagher 203-265-2856.

See Bobbie’s Bevy of Beauties here! Read Bobbie’s Bevy of Beauties inside!

Page 2 August 2008

WALLINGFORD FAMILY

We make your Health, Wellness and Vitality Dreams Come True!

Fall Class Registration

August 11th Members Only August 20th Program Members Session Dates - September 2nd - Oct 20th Day Care Options

2008 Camp Ulbrich and Camp Gaylord Where Every Day Is An Adventure! We create and memories that last a lifetime for children entering Kindergarten through 15 years of age. There are 6 weeks of Themed Adventures that run Monday - Friday from 9 am-4 pm remaining this Summer. We now also offer an Extended Care option for an additional fee that is available from 7-9 am and 4-6 pm.

Session 7 - August 4-8 Session 8 - August 11-15 Session 9 - August 18-22

Kindergarten Child Care The Wallingford YMCA offers before- and after-Kindergarten care as well as a full day Kindergarten program. Kindergarten Child Care (KCC) Designed especially for children who attend a half-day Kindergarten Program, this program offers skill enhancement as well as child care. Parents whose children attend a half-day Kindergarten program may choose from the following available options in the YMCA KCC Program: Before School/After Kindergarten 6:45-8:45 AM and 11:30-6:00 PM Before Kindergarten/After School 6:45-11:30 AM and 3:00-6:00 PM Before Kindergarten Care only - 6:45-11:30 AM After Kindergarten Care only - 11:30-6:00PM KCC is provided at the YMCA KinderHouse located on the YMCA campus. Before or After School Care is provided on site at the public school the child attends. Transportation to or from Kindergarten is provided. All Day Kindergarten Program The YMCA offers Full Day Kindergarten with an extended day option. This program follows the Wallingford Public School curriculum and schedule and offers enrichment activities such as swim lessons, gym, music, drama and computer instruction. A child need not be a Wallingford resident to attend. Monthly library visits and field trips are additional features of this program. New for 2007-2008 School Year! Flexi Schedule, for Families on the Go! Here at the Wallingford Family YMCA, we know how busy your day can be. That is why we have instituted our brand new Flexi Scheduling. We want to work with you to create a child care program that meets your family's needs. School Age! YMCA before and after school programs are state licensed, affordably priced, and conveniently located on site at each of the eight Wallingford Elementary Schools. Under supervision of caring, well-trained staff, certified in CPR and First Aid, children participate in a variety of games, crafts, and outdoor or gym activities designed to stimulate the imagination, develop new skills and foster the Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. Quiet time for reading or homework is also provided. Before School Program: 6:45 - 8:45 AM After School Program: 3:15 - 6:00 PM Parents may choose before school care, after school care, or before and after school care. Options are available. Call for more information. (203) 697-2823.

Find out even more in our Fall Brochure!

81 So. Elm Street, Wallingford 203-269-4497 www.wallingfordymca.org

Page 3 August 2008

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE OPENING IN NEW LOCATION Over the past six weeks, a hard-working crew from the Friends of the Library has moved over 10,000 books and the bookcases to put them in from their old location in downtown Meriden to new quarters at 35 West Main Street, a block away. This monumental move included the re-evaluation and winnowing of the existing stock of books and addition of .many new titles for a topgrade offering of first rate, gently used books. Book lovers are invited to come in and check out the collection starting Monday, July 14, when the new store will open its doors for business. Store hours will remain the same: Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, the bookstore will be one of the sites included in the Thursday evening Art Walks around downtown which are currently being planned. Book prices will remain the same: $2 for hard covers and $1 for paperbacks with trade paperbacks selling at $2 each and the newest titles and special collection books selling for a bit more. As soon as the store opens for business, book donations will once again be accepted at the Meriden Public Library. Only newer, good quality books are wanted and no books should be brought to the store.

Wallingford Public Library Twilight Saga Trivia Popular teen author, Stephenie Meyer and the books in her Twilight Series will be the focus of the Twilight Trivia Contest at the Wallingford Public Library on August 5th at 6:00 p.m. The trivia contest was developed and is presented in celebration of Stephenie Meyer's fourth book in the Twilight Series, "Breaking Dawn", due to be released on August 2nd. The other books in the series, "Twilight," "New Moon," and "Eclipse," all feature the saga of a teenage girl who falls in love with a vampire. The trivia contest will feature five different categories. Categories include the books "Twilight", "Eclipse", and "New Moon" as well as "The Twilight Movie" and "About the Author." Prizes will be awarded to the winners. The movie, Twilight, has a December 12th release date. The library will show a trailer from the movie and interviews with the author during the competition intermission. All teens are welcome to attend and are requested to bring a plain t-shirt for a "Make a Twilight Saga Shirt" craft. Please call the library at 203-265-6754 for more information and to register for this program. The alternative to a vacation is to stay home and tip every third person you see. ~Author Unknown

will be closed for Summer Holiday from August 1st - August 13th. We will return any phone calls or emails on August 14th. Have a great month. Feature Property of the Month

Owner Motivated To Sell Now! Huge, one owner, Ranch built by a builder for his family. 2,260 sq. ft. of living space on main level and over 1800 sq. ft. of living space on the lower level. 8 rooms, 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, plus the lower level offers a 2nd kitchen, a 2nd dining area, a 2nd living room and a huge family room. You cannot find a 12 room Ranch for this price in Meriden! It’s the best in-law set-up in town. This home also offers a 2 car garage, in ground pool, pool house and lovely landscaping, all situated on 1.15 acres of beautiful land. PRICE REDUCED $439,000

G A L L E R I A Real Estate, LLC 203-671-2223 www.galleriahouses.com

Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties I think this is the time of year when most of the flowers are in full bloom. The hibiscus have begun to open up. With the way something munched on their leaves I wasn't sure if I would have any flowers at all. But they survived and will give a very splendid display. They produced so many new plants this year that they were either given or thrown away. I couldn't keep up with them. Half of the second round of rose buds became a delightful meal for the Japanese beetles. It's been quite a few years since they have given me so much trouble. The black-eyed-Susan, and in my opinion one of the easiest and fastest reproducing perennials, did a turn about for the first time since I raised her. Some of them looked like their stem and leaves had been painted black. What an ugly looking mess. Told it was caused by the crazy weather we had this spring and summer. If any of you have this problem, when clean up time comes around, cut off all growth and dispose of it. Let's get to the butterfly bush. Beginning to bloom and should do so until about the middle of October. So that means lots of pretty butterflies. All in all my gardens are filled to the brim and in splendid color. I purchased an annual from the Dietrich Nursery which I never had before. I don't believe it's a new variety but one I had overlooked. Bought four of them. One went into a large planter and the other three into the ground. It's name, Totally Tempted "Cuphea Llavea". A mound of bright red flowers, 10-12 inches high, loves the sun and blooms continuously. Have put it on my favorite flower list. Jimmy's long awaited cucumbers are here. Three pickings so far. And outside of a couple he kept for himself they have been given away. And me, I'm waiting for the tomatoes and that first sandwich. Even though he put the triangular metal supports in the containers to hold up the plants, they have produced so many tomatoes that some of the stems still droop. Keep looking for the color to change from green to red. The photo of the three tier planter shown here was originally a water fountain which no longer works. It was then given to me and I filled it with the red, pink and white begonias. A new variety of coleus is to the left, red and purple salvia in front and hosta in the back. It is one of my popular garden pieces and resides on the other side of the now non used fireplace. The other photo on the front cover is of the garden bed which is between the walk and fireplace as you enter the backyard through the gate on the north side. Begonia, portulaca, marigolds in the background, pink simplicity roses and lilies fill this area. Plus numerous decorative pieces. The frog next to the marigolds was brought home from Paris, France when our son, Keith, came to visit. This is one of my favorite beds. Constantly in bloom. Will have some more photos for the next issue. Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien

Health and Wellness Fair August 9 The Meriden-Wallingford Branch of the NAACP, in partnership with the Community Health Center of Meriden and the Meriden Health Department, will be hosting its annual health and wellness fair on Saturday, August 9, from 11:00am2:00pm at the Meriden HUB location. Health information and screenings will be offered from over 50 vendors; raffle items will be available as well as fun entertainment, Double Dutch jump rope demonstrations, and Step performers. This family event is free, and all are welcome! For more information on the event, please contact Angela Simpson at 630-4237. This is guaranteed to be a fun, informational event for everyone! To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community Newspaper, 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!

Page 4 August 2008

The People’s Press - Get Happy With It! www.peoplespressnews.com Celebrations of Life and Home

At a recent meeting of the Wallingford Rotary Club, the Rotarian of the Year Award was presented to Ed Zavaski for his outstanding contributions to the Club for the year 2008. Roz Gallagher was also presented with the Paul Harris Fellowship Award which is one of the highest honors Rotary can bestow upon a person. Both awards are given to recognize Rotarians and/or business professionals for their outstanding contributions to their Club and community by living and demonstrating the highest ideal Rotary strives for, that of "Service Above Self".

What you need to know...

The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2008 Gardener’s Market Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 12th to Sept 13th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, unique crafts, baked items and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. Check the website at www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for detailed information. Special vendors for produce are: Skip D’Albero of Tancreti Farm with flowers and vegetables; Mary Beth Draghi of Little Acres Farms with fruits and vegetables; Shirley Lagerstrom of Gardening for Old Times Sake with vegetables and flower arrangements; Michael Melillo of Nature’s Mirror with organic vegetables, eggs, floral bouquets; Lori Mossberg of Farmer’s Daughter with organic heirloom vegetables; Scott Trauner with garlic, eggs, herbs, corn, peppers; Brenda Trumpold of Bittersweet Hollow Farm with eggs, vegetables, herbs. Special vendors for gardening items are: Liz and Joe Caprio of JAC Creations with cement gardening pots and accessories; Deneen Thompson of Garden Party with yard décor, tools and flags; George Wooster of Garden Stones with engraved garden stones. Photo by Liz Landow of Trumpold’s booth.

South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department 100th Anniversary South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating its 100 years of service to the Village of South Meriden and the City of Meriden. During our Anniversary this year we will be celebrating with different events throughout the year. The City's annual Independence Day Fire Works Display that was held on July 3rd was dedicated in the honor of our 100th Anniversary. In August we will be celebrating by sponsoring a Carnival starting on Thursday August 21st thru Sunday August 24th located will either be Hanover School Property or Habershon Field. Location will be announced in the very near future. On Saturday August 23rd from 10 am to 3:00 pm we will be having an open house at our fire station. During our open house we will be having extrication demonstration, fire extinguishing training and we will also have the State of CT children's smoke house survival training trailer to demo safe exit during a fire emergency from your home. We will also have a visit from CT Army National Guard Fire unit that is based in East Lyme, CT with one of their fire apparatus. The American Red Cross will also be at our station doing a blood drive. Please donate and give the gift of life. Fund Raising Information We also want to thank all of our financial supporters who have already donated to our annual fund raiser. We use these funds each year to help off set our small budget. We purchase additional fire fighting gear, Emergency Service supplies and use some for training. We are also looking to purchase an Emergency 4 wheel ATV (i.e. a Gator) to be used on the new Liner Trail and for the next phase of the trail proceeding from Dawson Beach parking lot & behind Wilcox and Platt High Schools to Coe Ave. With the over whelming popularity of the trail, and the trail not being readily accessible to fire apparatus and ambulances do to the safety/security barriers, having an equipped Emergency response 4 wheel ATV will allow us to reach people that might get injured or become ill in a timely fashion. This vehicle will be equipped with a stationary stretcher pad and a seat for an attendant. The price of the unit equipped with a trailer is approximately $15,000. Donations can be sent to SMVFD, at PO Box 3030, Meriden, CT 06450 Fire Education & Home Safety Check 16 years ago we introduced our annual Home Safety Check for the residents of our fire district. We are still providing this Free service to all our neighbors. Please call us to set up an appointment. We will come to your home and make suggestions on safety items that could protect your family and your home. We will suggest the proper locations for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and types of fire extinguishers to have in the home and other emergency equipment that can be used in case of a fire or medical emergency. Our fire education services are dedicated to developing fire prevention and education projects in the South Meriden community. Some programs involve pre-school and elementary school children while others involve adults and the elderly. Our department also helps businesses with fire extinguishing classes to educate employees in the event of a fire Now its time for a several safety tips for our neighbors. We hope you all have working smoke detectors in your home. Working Smoke detectors save lives. Please make sure that you changed your batteries in the detectors. The best time to remember to change the batteries is when day light saving time comes. When you change your clocks back or forth change the batteries for safety. But if you did not have the opportunity to change the battery yet the today would be a good time also. Also if you do not have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your home please purchase them. CO Emergencies just do not happen in the winter months. CO is a colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas that is produced by inefficient burning and incomplete combustion of fuel products in heating appliances, furnace, hot water heaters, and stoves. If you do not have efficient burning appliances in the home, over a period of time CO could be building up in the home which if unchecked could lead to medical conditions and even Death. Having your furnace cleaned and serviced each year will help keep the units running more efficiently. CO is the silent killer, please protect your family and yourself and purchase CO detectors for your home. CO is also produced by normal operation of your vehicles and comes out of the vehicles exhaust systems. Running your vehicle in the garage could cause CO to seep directly into the home. Another health Tip. If you can and have the time and the energy may be you can help a neighbor who is a little older or might be ill, give them a hand by mowing the lawn or cleaning their gutters. Please take caution when on ladders when cleaning gutters or cleaning windows. Make sure you are clear of all electrical lines when raising a ladder or lowing a ladder. It feels real good to be able to help others out during the year if you can help some one today. Also with this rash of storms we have been having please be careful to take shelter inside a building during lighting storms. If you see wires down do not go near them call 911 for assistance and the fire department and or police department will come out to secure the area until CL&P can get to the scene. We also want to thank all of our friends that have helping clean snow and ice a way from fire hydrants during the winter months, now we are also asking you to help by clearing weeds and grass away from the hydrants during the summer months. This allows the fire department during fire emergencies to hook up to fire hydrants quicker to gain access to a water supply if the fire is one of a substantial size; your help is really appreciated. And one more health tip. If you are under a doctor's care and take certain medications keep a list of these medications handy just in case you have the need to call 911 for during a medical emergency. Also with this list you might want to give a little history of any medical conditions that you also might have. These are important things for emergency responders to have just in case you are unable to respond to our questions when we arrive at your home. A good place to keep this information is in an envelope on you refrigerator and note that it is Medical Info. Information about our application process: Membership Information After September 11, 2001 (911) we had a surge of memberships in Volunteer Fire Departments not only in CT but a cross the Nation. The numbers of volunteers has dropped in the last several years and we all need help to continue to serve our communities. We are looking for some eager, hard working and committed volunteer recruits to join our department. South Meriden Vol. Fire Dept now is accepting applications. We are recruiting citizens from Meriden over the age of 18 who are High School Graduates in good physical health and have a clean police record. No fire fighting experience is necessary; we will train you and send you for training. We also do recruitment for certified firefighters that live outside of Meriden as long as they can meet our bylaw requirements to do minimum one duty overnight crew a week plus meet our drill, meeting and squad duty requirements. We are one of the only Volunteer fire stations in the State that have sleep-in crews at our fire station we presently cover 6 out of 7 nights. Our nightly in-house status allows us to service our customers you our neighbors quicker. Being a volunteer fire fighter takes a lot of commitment and time. Our members make a lot of personal sacrifices to belong to our department, but they get great satisfaction of being part of terrific tradition of saving lives and property. We train and work hard but we love serving and protecting our friends and visitors. Applications can be picked up at our station at 31 Camp Street, South Meriden in the evenings. We are a DRUG FREE Department and we TEST all applicants. Good-bye for now, talk to you soon Keep Safe & Stay Healthy during the summer! Keith Gordon, Chief of Operations South Meriden Fire Rescue

Temple Beth David's Shabbat in the Park Temple Beth David of Cheshire will hold outdoor services on Friday, August 29, at Lock 12 Historic Park on Route 42 in Cheshire, beginning with a picnic supper at 6:30 p.m. and followed by Friday evening Sabbath services. Members of the public are welcome to join us for an informal and pleasant evening. For more information regarding the Shabbat in the park or Temple Beth David, call the Temple office at (203) 272-0037.

We deliver to schools, churches, institutions, clubs, businesses and offices for FREE!

WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA AMERICAN RED CROSS LIFEGUARD TRAINING COURSE- INCLUDES FIRST AID & CPR/FPR/AED Participants must be 15 years of age and able to swim 500 yards. Pre-test date-Monday, Aug 11 3 PM- be prepared to swim Class dates- August 11,12,13,14,15,18,19 from 3-8PM *(times may be adjusted as class progresses.) Fee: Wallingford YMCA members: $235 Program Members: $270 Fee includes textbook, pocket mask, and certification cards Call 203 269 4497 x 20 for more information and to register.

Roberts Chrysler Dodge Service Center Don’t let NEEDED Maintenance Drive by! At Roberts we are finding ways to stretch your dollar! Take advantage of our Coupons & Mail-In Rebates!

Why are we better than the rest?

* Always great customer service and auto service with great savings! * NEW at Roberts: Online appointments - Create and manage your own account where you can view service history, see recalls, view maintenance schedules, get on-line coupons and specials and MUCH, MUCH MORE! Ask for details. * Busy during the week? Our Saturday Service and Parts Department are open 8am-1pm to help your schedule and to offer needed convenience at a time you need it most! * EXPRESS Lube Service! Get your Oil and Filter Change - WHILE YOU WAIT! * STICK WITH THE SPECIALISTS! Our staff is factory trained & ASE certified. NO ONE KNOWS YOUR VEHICLE BETTER AND SERVICE IT BETTER!

REBATE! *Valid on purchase and dealer installation of Mopar 84-, 72’ and 60- Series Batteries. No coupon needed. Mail-in rebates valid on purchases through 8/31/08. Requests must be postmarked by 9/17/08 & received by 10/4/08

$5.00 REBATE Each Battery*

TIRE REBATES Continental Tires

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87 South Broad Street (Route 5) in Meriden 203.238.0036 www.robertschryslerdodgeCT.com Service Hours: M-F 7:30 - 5 Parts: M-F 8:00 - 4:30 Sat. 8:00 - 1:00

Page 6 August 2008

People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon Look for the answers in this issue. ACROSS 1. Car. 5. Not sour. 9. A float for a fishing line. 12. It currently sells for more than $4.00 per gallon in CT 14. To pad and stitch ornamentally 16. A spring month 17. Attempt 19. A disparaging remark 20. "______ Nicole Smith" 21. Sobbed 22. Caspian, Red, Dead, Black, or North; e.g. 23. Some people say, "you have to eat a ton of this before you die" 25. Feels sorrow over; regrets bitterly 27. Yes (Spanish) 28. "____-been"; a person who is no longer famous and important 29. A musical composition. 31. You will get better gas mileage if you adjust the _____ pressure in your tires. 33. A person living in seclusion; recluse. 35. A useful and desirable thing or quality. 37. Produced offspring; reproduced by mating 39. A unique nine digit number issued by the US government and is necessary in order to apply for old age benefits (initials) 41. Opposite of sit 43. Boom box 45. Pertaining to a long poetic composition, centered on a hero. 47. A low female singing voice. 48. Johnny Carson's old side-kick, ___ McMahon 49. Corn holders 51. Denver is this state's capital (abbr.) 52. "This is ___!" 53. Non-profit, women's organization for the descendants of individuals who aided in achieving American independence (initials) 55. South African clergyman and 1984 Nobel peace prize winner, Bishop Desmond Tu ___. 56. A word having the same or nearly the same meaning as another word 58. A pouch in many birds that resembles a stomach for storage and preliminary maceration of food. 60. An autumn month (abbr.) 61. Steven Spielberg 1982 movie about an outer space visitor and some Earth children 63. This state's capital is Des Moines (abbr.) 64. Quasimodo's job at Notre Dame 66. A mischievous person 68. "___, ___, i , ___, u , and sometimes y " 69. A member of an American Indian people of Utah and Western Colorado

70. "_______ and ye shall find" 71. "To ____ is human, to forgive is divine" 77. Lake _______ , at Banff National Park in Alberta Canada, is known as Canada's "Diamond in the Wilderness". DOWN 2. This landlocked republic in eastern Africa achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1962 3. Lost luster or became discolored; especially by oxidation 4. Name of the statue presented to winners at the Academy Awards 5. Initials of the mouse adopted by a family in the 1999 movie staring Michael J. Fox 6. Milwaukee is the largest city of this upper midwestern state (abbr.) 7. To charge or invest with responsibility or a specified duty 8. Uncanny; bizarre; creepy 9. A mass transit vehicle 10. Lubricates 11. Depressed spirits; despondency 13. An exclamation of surprise 15. A form of mass transit 16. A partner for Pa 18. Affirmative response 21. Ocean voyages 24. A peak or a bare or rocky mountain 26. To discolor; stain; to defile (used chiefly in poetry 28. These vehicles will save their owners from buying so much gasoline 30. A varied group of physical and psychological systems that occur before the onset of menstruation (abbr.) 31. A beast of burden; donkey 32. Property consisting of houses and land 34. Wife of Ernie Kovaks, ______ Adams 36. Powerful explosive 38. Method of showing direction of objects by means of bouncing/ returning radio waves 40. One type of transportation which does not use gasoline 42. A female deer 44. A cereal grass (singular) 46. Using your car's cruise __________ will improve your gas mileage 50. Barney and Betty's last name 54. Lift up 57. Comes together 59. Extreme; far-out; very bad (slang) 62. "I think that I shall never see a poem as lovely as a ______" 65. A user interface based on graphics (icons; pictures; and menus) instead of text (abbr.) 67. An American physicist, known for the formulation of the theory of relativity (initials)

GRAMPS ON THE GOLF LINKS Dorothy Gonick The Berkshire Blossom Film Festival had a 24-hour film challenge with the following parameters: "Hey Jack, where's the green?" A local business establishment An egg, a banana or a Twinkie. Just for fun I chose to write a poem in those 24 hours with same parameters. Here it is. GRAMPS ON THE GOLF LINKS June 8, 1980 Dorothy Gonick Hooray, hooray, Gramp came to visit today! I thought he'd say "What d'you want to play?" But what he said, was "Hey Jack, Where's the green?" "The green? What do you mean?" "Golfing, my boy. My clubs I've brought. Go put on your cap-The sun it's so hot." Gramps handed me a club Put a ball on the tee, Helped me to swing And we sent it with glee.

The sun was hot and Soon I got weary, Sat under a tree. To munch on my Twinkie Gramps kept swinging, Sent the ball soaring high Into the bushes And out of our sight. "Let's go home" I called, As he looked for the ball. But Gramps searched long Until, 'Eureka!' he called. "It's here in the shadows A good long shot." Grasping his club He said "Ready or not." Swung hard at the ball, But heard a loud Splot! Got egg on his trousers, Surprised him a lot. Two ducks came a flapping Mid loud noisy quacking, Struck him and nipped him And sent him a rushing. Swinging his club, He ran toward the car, Yelling, "Hey Jack, Games over, I'll not make par." Home from the green, I told his sad tale, Send family to laughing-They giggled a gale.

Tanzania Trails We can’t pass up another African safari this winter, and have designed our 2009 TANZANIAN TREASURE TROVE. Visit Arusha, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Lake Ndutu and Lake Manyara. If this is a first, you owe it to yourself. It is a MUST! Call for brochure! January 31 - February 11, 2009 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com

CONGRATULATIONS Carrie Borzillo-V Vrenna on the publication of your new book...

Cherry Bomb

The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Better Flirt, A Tougher Chick, And A Hotter Girlfriend. And To Living Life Like A Rock Star.

Love, Mom and Dad

Available now on-line and at major bookstores. Visit www.myspace.com/carrieborzillovrenna

Page 7 August 2008

Local Program Empowers Parents

Reverend George W. Perkins

The Parent Leadership Training Institute is a statewide initiative created to train, inspire and empower parents to become effective advocates for children. Through PLTI's unique adult learning experience, you explore your passions, strengths, beliefs and ideas. Then, you work to develop interpersonal and public communications skills, as well as your understanding of government, media and civic relations. The training that I received as a member of the Parent Leadership Training Institute is invaluable. I began PLTI a bit skeptical and uncertain as to the benefits of such a program. My primary reason for submitting my application was to represent my children's best interest in our new community of Meriden. My children and I had recently relocated to Meriden and I wanted to understand "how" to navigate the inner workings of the school system. Since my graduation from PLTI (Class of 2008) I have finally come to the realization that I have received far more than I could have ever imagined. I am now familiar with our state's legislative processes. In addition, I am an advocate for positive change as it impacts the areas of education, health and my community. Hence, I have learned to lend a voice to issues that affect everyone. The proof of my learned skills is evident in the practicum, most commonly known as "the community project", of which all participants in the PLTI had to complete. This project incorporated many of the skills that were developed in the training. My community project involved increasing the public bus transportation in Meriden. I have certainly become aware of the importance of the "art of persuasion" and the realization that you must simply tell your story but gear it toward your audience. My greatest surprise was "how" supportive our legislators are of our becoming more civic savvy. If I had a question, they were willing to consider, recommend and take action on it. Prior to PLTI, I had always thought of our legislators as "those people at the capitol". Now, I view them as fellow citizens that are focused on addressing the issues that challenge our communities. PLTI has reinforced my belief that a person should be a part of the solution not just the problem. It's easy to just simply complain about the issues that plague our community, however, it takes determination to help do something about it. We are all natural change agents whether we are aware of it or not. However, PLTI's training has provided the environment to allow my natural abilities to flourish. If you are interested in bringing your concern to the forefront, enroll into the Parents Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) program. Elisa Hundley 2008 PLTI Graduate This is my personal story: My name is Daisy Olivo and I am a PLTI graduate from the 2008 class. My personal story is that since being part of the Parent Leadership Training Institute I have learned allot about politics and what can be done to change a situation. My current position in the community is that I am like a light house. I do and create fundraisers and community events throughout Meriden. I have to know everything about resources and events, not only in Meriden but in the surrounding towns. I thought I knew everything but I stand corrected. I am currently involved in several committees and we are trying to make a difference and improve our committee. I am putting together a Teen Girls support group that will focus on teen girl issues. I have a couple of girls from all of the Meriden schools who will come together and speak on different topics. Come September these girls will have the policy and procedures for embarking in the first Diverse Teen Girl Leadership Program. Topics of concern would be diversity, education, discrimination, boys, teen rape, teen domestic violence, how to reach your parent and much more. These are just a few things that I am empowering the girls to speak on and allow them to coordinate the group. I will just sit back and see it unfold and give the girls guidance in this venture. I will have the girls involved in community events and recruitment for the kick off which will be in September 2008. I would like to thank all of the facilitators in my class of 2008 and speakers for encouraging me and giving me the knowledge that I know have to make this happen. Daisy Olivo 2008 PLTI Graduate For more information contact: Children First Imitative, PLTI office at 203630-3566 / or apply online for January, 2009 classes at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org

Who was this man that helped shape Meriden's history? He was a man of God, a law breaker, a humanist, a historian and a powerful speaker for the American right for justice and freedom for all. His versatility and dedication for freedom for all has been long forgotten. Many historians are not familiar with his live. It is time for history to be told so that he can take his rightful place in Meriden's history. Reverend Perkins was born in Hartford Connecticut on February 12, 1804. Does this date February 12, sound familiar? Perkins graduated from Yale University in 1824 and later graduated from Andover Theological Seminary in 1829. The Congregational Church in Meriden issued a call to Rev. Perkins and he started his ministry at the Broad Street Church in 1841 and served until 1848. Later that year the growth of the congregation required a larger building. Some members of the church left the original building with Rev. Perkins and built a larger church on Colony Street. Other members of the original church remained at the building on Broad Street with the result that the Town of Meriden now had two congregational churches - the Center Congregational Church on Broad Street and the First Congregational Church on Colony Street. During his career in Meriden, Rev. Perkins was engaged in abolitionist activities. He was very outspoken and was well known as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. This system was used to aid slaves in escaping from slavery to freedom in Canada. They traveled at night aided by members of the Underground Railroad who concealed them during the day. Other abolitionists aided them in their travel further north to freedom. This activity was illegal and a violation of federal law. The Fugitive Slave Law of 1793 stated that anyone convicted of violating this law would be liable for a fine of $1,000 and six months in prison plus civil damages of $1,000 for each slave lost by the owner. Rev. Perkins' personal safety was threatened as well as his personal property for violence was quite common during this period of our history. On one occasion, Rev. Perkins successfully opposed the action of a sheriff from the Sough when he attempted to capture two escaped slaves that were living in Meriden. The sheriff returned to the South without the "property" claimed by a southern plantation owner due to Rev. Perkins efforts. Rev. Perkins' versatility became more evident when he wrote the first history of Meriden in 1849. "Historical Sketches of Meriden" has been used by historians ever since. His reason for this effort was explained in the preface of his book. "The compiler of the following pages, prepared a few historical sketches or reminiscences of Meriden as a substitute for a Thanksgiving sermon: for the dreary sight of empty seats, on those annual occasions in a house usually full, left him no heart to preach on that day. Quite to his astonishment, the hearers were enough interested in the sketches to ask for their publication with such additions as might be accessible." Perkins was an author of other books and many of his sermons were published. Rev. Perkins left Meriden in 1854 to accept a call from the First Congregational Church of Chicago. He also worked as a editor for a newspaper and he is known as one of the founders of the theological seminary in Chicago. His career and life in Chicago were tragically cut short for he died November 13, 1856. He always considered Meriden as his home and his body was returned to Meriden. The Perkins family plot is in the West Cemetery of Meriden. Many years later, when his gravestone became too worn to repair, the members of the First Congregational Church of Meriden replaced it with an appropriate monument inscribed with a sincere tribute to his memory. Kenneth Cowing

Did You Know? Fireworks are known and loved all over the world. They're often a part of festivals and holidays, adding excitement and spectacle. The invention of fireworks is credited to the Chinese. The first fireworks were actually green bamboo that were thrown into fires to scare spirits away in ancient China, called "pas chuk." It is believed that gunpowder was discovered accidentally by a Chinese alchemist who mixed sulphur and salt peter (potassium nitrate) over a fire. The Chinese name for gunpowder is "huo yao" (fire chemical). To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community Newspaper, 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!

SPECIAL $50 SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP

Temple B'nai Abraham, a Conservative, Egalitarian congregation, announces a special membership rate for new Temple members. The membership will run until June 2009. High Holiday tickets included in the membership. Offer is open to singles and families. The Temple offers a wide range of programs:Innovative Religious School (Pre-K through bar/bat Mitzvah)* Shabbat * Holiday and Festival Services * Yahrzeit Minyanim* Jr. Congregation * Adult Education * Social Action * Cultural and Social Events and Congregational Dinners This offer is not open to current or past members.

Call (203) 235-2581 for more information. The Temple is located at 127 East Main St., Meriden.

The End of the World, or Not

Nick Thomas By now, you've probably heard what mischief the Swiss are up to these days. They have built, and are about to turn on, the world's most powerful atom-smasher to study the building blocks of the universe. We're talking an investigation of dark matter, extra dimensions, string theory, subatomic particles, and even the ever elusive Higgs boson. (If you're curious what that is, it's a hypothetical massive scalar elementary particle - just wanted to clear that up). Call me cautious, but when a country can't even make cheese without holes in it, I'm worried what's going to happen when they flip this baby on in August. Seems there is a chance that this machine (known as the Large Hadron Collider - as opposed to the portable Small Hadron Colliders you can buy through mail-order from Lands End) could malfunction just a tad. So are we talking about fusing out a few villa toasters in the Alps? Blowing out the street lights in downtown Geneva? Melting down the European power grid? Nope. How about spawning a black hole that could swallow up the entire Earth. Not that that would necessarily be a bad thing. If it means I don't have to listen to any more smarmy, election-year political rhetoric for another four months, it might just be worth it. But fear not. The experts say that the chances of the Earth being vaporized are about the same odds as winning Lotto. Is that supposed to be reassuring? Generally, when it comes to total, universal, planetary meltdown, a probability of ZERO might be a little more comforting. Of course, this isn't the first time the possibility of a world-destroying, cataclysmic event has been raised. Over the centuries, various nutty characters have predicted something like this would happen, even without the aid of the ingenious Swiss. Many of these world-ending prognostications had their origin in religious doctrine which, for some reason, often seems to attract leaders who delight in making depressing predictions of Armageddon. Let's examine the case of New Yorker William Miller who - modest man that he was - founded the Millerite Church back in the 1800s, and predicted the end of the world would come on April 3, 1843. When it didn't, he tried again for July 7; he struck out a third time on March 21, 1844. Finally, on October 22 the same year, the Earth held together once more, much to Rev. Miller's annoyance. Oddly enough, despite his failures, Miller was revered by many of his Millerite groupies, which is a bit hard to fathom. I mean, if you're going to follow someone who claims he can predict the end of the universe, at least wait until the guy gets the date right before you begin worshiping him. It seems some of the Millerites were, in fact, disenchanted with their doom and gloom leader, and formed a splinter group: the Miller Lites. They were a happier, more relaxed bunch. Along these lines, of course, we all hope the predictions of the atom-smasher-induced demise of the Earth are exaggerated and that if something does go wrong, it will more than likely just take out Norway. "Obviously, there is nothing to worry about," one of the scientists in charge of the project confidently predicted, as he boarded a plane to spend the summer in Tasmania.

Who Do You Work For? July always gets me to thinking. I put into perspective who I work for and who really pays my salary. You see, I work in the customer service industry and without the customer, I would be out of a job. Now this is a point I never forget because let's face it, like everyone else I have bills to pay. In today's economy my store fights with others for your business. What keeps my customers coming back? I hire for personality! My customers comment on their reasons for remaining "regulars"…"Your staff is so nice." This makes me happy to hear. So why am I writing this? July. That wonderful month when the heat is on, the flowers are in bloom, produce is "farm Fresh" fireworks are exploding and last but not least…Property Taxes are due. Now I don't know about you but I receive the bill in the post and approach it with trepidation. How much can it possibly be? More than I want to pay! But pay I must and so to the tax office I go to pay the monies being extorted from my pocket. Yippee! Why is it when I get to the desk I am always met by a cranky, hostile, public servant who has either NO personality, or is just plain rude? Since when does being a public servant give you "rude rights"? And God forbid if you are delinquent in your taxes…out comes the "open hostility" card. Shame on you. Judgment passed! You all know what I'm writing about. I have two words for all the town employees who feel they are so much higher on the food chain…"charm school". I really don't care what you think about all of us tax payers…keep your judgments and rudeness to yourself, put a smile on your face, and connect the money. Your paycheck comes from our tax dollars. Yes, indeed, YOU WORK FOR US! Get happier and kinder. It seems to have worked for the I.R.S. Signed, I Know Who I Work For

Gas prices too high to travel? Get away close by! Go to the FOUR POINTS web site and look for HOTEL OFFERS! www.fourpoints.com/meriden

Page 8 August 2008

E. Haberli Electric

Attention Retirees! It's almost that time of the year again…BACK TO SCHOOL TIME! Being retired, this probably doesn't affect you that much. But back to school time also means that the Senior Buddy Readers program is beginning to sign up volunteers for the 2008-2009 school years. "What is Senior Buddy Readers," you ask? It is an intergenerational literacy program where retirees volunteer to help first and second graders improve their reading skills. Last year, Senior Buddy Readers celebrated its sixth year, with seventy two volunteers helping over two hundred children in five Meriden elementary schools. So if you are a retiree who has one hour a week to share with a child, don't you think it's time to volunteer as a Senior Buddy Reader? For more information or to sign up, please contact David Radcliffe, Director of Meriden Children First Initiative located at the Meriden Public Library (203) 630-3566. Or you can check out the Senior Buddy Readers link at Children First's website www.meridenchildrenfirst.org.

Storms keep popping up. The weather is causing havoc for some homeowners. Surge protectors added to your main electrical panel can help with the lightning problems that we are all experiencing. E. Haberli Electric has experienced electricians that can fix all your electrical problems. They installed a generator at my house so I have power even if a storm strikes and the area looses power, my freezer will not go off and with the price of groceries lately I could not afford to lose all I have stored. I can still cook and will have lights. I guess the neighbors are coming for dinner Old circuit breakers or too much drawing off the circuit breakers are a possible cause for tripping and you may need to update that service. Homeowners who have lived in a house for some time tend to forget that over time electrical items such as toaster ovens, microwaves, coffee pots are added little by little and before you know it the draw has increased and when you plug in that iron or hairdryer oops! Time to update! Can't stand the heat and just bought an A/C unit whether it be a window unit that needs a dedicated outlet or an outside unit that needs to be wired into the panel, I know that E. Haberli Electric can do the job, I use them for all my electrical needs. Just call 203-235-5653 and they be there to fix or install what you need.

THANKS FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!!!

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694 Old Colony Rd. 203-237-4379

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By Bonnie Kent This year is a new beginning for me and my family. My first born daughter is heading into high school and pretty soon will be on her own. As I watched my daughter graduate last month I took a look at how she grew into her own. How she gained her confidence, her courage and her sense of independence and I realized it was all the decision I made for her and all her teachers that throughout her life have taught and encouraged her that made my daughter into the young woman she is today. Today I would like to thank certain members of out teaching society who do not receive the credit that they deeply deserve. You see, when my daughter was younger she was a perfectionist and had trouble with math and memorization. A tutor suggested she learn an instrument to help her with her memorization skills. My daughter chose violin and her 1st teacher was Miss Laura at Wintergreen. Miss Laura's consistent training gave my daughter the knowledge to improve her memorization and develop a love for music. Then with 4th grade came orchestra and Ms. Rossamondo (many of you might remember her father, Mr. Rossamondo, from the Wallingford School System) Ms. Rossamondo is very much like her father and the knowledge that she gives to her students is outstanding. She was a very important part of my daughters learning to read music. Along with the other music teachers at Wintergreen; Mr. Steven and Ms. Morse. I have watched my children grow and have seen improvement in their reading skills, math skills and their ability to understand, adapt and to work in groups. These are the skills that MUSIC that's right MUSIC has given my children. For those of us who do not have the opportunity to explore music in our school systems there are private instructors and groups that support music and the knowledge that it gives our children. One that I have known for many years is Sandie Apuzzo. Many of our local kids know Miss Sandie and the Kindermusik classes or summer music programs she runs at her Key and Strings Studio or through private lessons that she gives in piano, violin and viola. Miss Sandie sees every day how much music impacts our lives and our ability to learn and communicate from infancy though our later years in life and she gives that to everyone of her students' everyday. At one point in my daughters short life she had wanted to give up music and I suggested she try Miss Sandie and in a few short weeks I watched my daughter blossom into a very committed musician. Miss Sandie allows her to explore many different types of music and playing styles while also helping her to explore the world and history through music. I would also like to thank Ms. Veronica Germain, the conductor for the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra, who volunteers her time to conduct a very fine group of 25 musicians. I have watch this group from the beginning go from single musician each playing for themselves to a group that plays together as one. From our youngest member of our junior orchestra to our oldest member each is inspired to play their best and improve week by week as individuals and as a group. This orchestra is very unique as no one musician is every turned away whether it is for financial reason or talent. Those musicians who our not yet ready to join the full orchestra join as junior member who practice with the orchestra at their own pace and play during the performances until they are ready to join as a full member. These kids play because they love playing and this is the only place that some can play the music that they love due to their school system not being able to provide the music services these kids need. So as I say thank you I encourage everyone in our area to support music and the arts in our towns and our cities by attending a performance at our schools, churches or local community groups. For those who think that music and arts are important to our youth in our communities sponsor a youth in a theatre production or in the local orchestra or community band. For those of you looking for a place to play contact your local community theatre or orchestra and join a great group of kids.. Or JUST SAY THANKS YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO to a music teacher, art teacher or drama coach.

The Meriden Humane Society Desperately Needs Your Help!! The Meriden Humane Society is seeking the public's help to help care for dozens of cats and kittens removed from a Meriden home several weeks ago. Many of the cats are sick with upper respiratory infections, so the vet bills are adding up very quickly. Last year the Meriden Humane Society placed 191 dogs and 863 cats into loving homes. They are privately run relying on only private donations. Without the help of the public, they would never be able to take care of so many animals. They are seeking cat food, wet cat food (no fish), cat litter, linens, towels, and sheets. And most of all, they are seeking cash donations to help defer the cost of the astronomical vet bills. They are located at 311 Murdoch Avenue, Meriden, CT 06450. If we would only give, just once, the same amount of reflection to what we want to get out of life that we give to the question of what to do with a two weeks' vacation, we would be startled at our false standards and the aimless procession of our busy days. ~Dorothy Canfield Fisher

(203) 697-1030 Wallingford Office

Page 9 August 2008

RAY LOVED LIFE One Woman's Journal by Audrey C. Linke My dear husband, Raymond Gustave Linke, went home to be with the Lord on March 17, Saint Patrick's Day, 2008. On March 20 we, his family and friends, celebrated his life, a life well lived more recently a life valiantly lived - at the Beecher and Bennett Funeral Home in Hamden. Ray loved life. Not just his own, but all life - plant, animal, and human. Some times his devotion to all things living became a problem - at least for me. For instance, when I trimmed excess leaves from a house plant, he insisted I root them and start new plants. If Ray saw me clean up our African violets or Philodendron, he'd be visibly shaken if I accidentally removed a healthy leaf. I learned to trim the plants when he was away or sleeping. Years ago we planted a few flowering shrubs at various points around the yard. They needed yearly pruning to keep them shapely and healthy but Ray could not do it, nor did he want anyone else to do it. He should have chopped down a small mulberry tree 30 years ago, but could not bring himself to kill a living thing. Now that its branches hang over the roof of the house I will have to hire a professional tree surgeon to get rid of it. I was a witness to the triumph Ray enjoyed the day he locked himself in my parents' pantry and stayed there until he caught a mouse with his bare hands! He proudly carried the little critter to the back door and set it free. Ray was scrupulously honest. He once said, "I wouldn't even steal a cotter pin!" When he discovered a young employee helping himself to a six-pack of motor oil, Ray read him the riot act. "You risked your whole future for a few cans of oil," he said. "If you got caught, no one would ever trust you again. And if I ever catchy you again, I'll turn you in myself!" With that said, I asked Ray if he ever read the column in the local paper listing the weekly arrests. "No," he said, "I don't think their mothers would want me to."

The deadline for the next issue of The People’s Press is August 26th for all submissions, stories, news and more. Email to: dawn@ peoplespressnews.com Call 203.235.9333 if you have any questions.

PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly seek you from the bottom of my heart to secure me in my necessity. (Make your request). There are none that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Grateful Thanks. S.B.

PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly seek you from the bottom of my heart to secure me in my necessity. (Make your request). There are none that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Grateful Thanks. J.E.B.

Teenagers often frequented Ray's place of business, looking for guidance on how to repair their cars. K Ray always made time for them and gave them a discount on car parts to boot. He remained their hero for life. Ray was in a business where customers were often irate. Their cars broke down and then wanted them fixed yesterday. Some spoke none too kindly to the man responsible for getting their car back on the road as soon a possible. But Ray found a way to handle them If they swore at him, Ray would put the phone down and go about his business. When he returned to the phone he'd offer to help them. Sometimes the long silence was enough, but some would call Ray's boss and complain that Ray wouldn't talk to them. The boss would ask, "Did you swear at him?" "Well, yes," they'd admit. "I was upset." "If you call him back and speak nicely, I think he'll talk to you." I'm thinking that many's the man that learned from Ray's quiet lessons on manners and respect. One of the man from the Roaring 20's Car Club remarked that Ray had forgotten more about cars than most of them ever learned. And Ray shared that knowledge gladly. He felt that knowledge was a gift from God and meant to be shared. When local garage men turned to Ray for information or advice, he was proud he could be of service. Members of the car club often called for guidance, as well. My son-in-law, John, would say, "The phone is ringing, it must be suppertime!" And Ray was never too busy to help them. One young friend lived in New York State and needed to put a rebuilt engine in a 1920 something Ford - the motor came in a bushel basket. He called every night and Ray would explain what to do first, then second, and so on, until that little Ford with the rumble seat was running and registered. Our friend's daughter took video of the entire process and presented it to us when it was done. It was a wonderful collaboration and the film is delightful. For Ray, all life was sacred, a gift from God to be cherished and enjoyed. He was not great at expressing these things but I knew - he couldn't even thin the radishes. This dear man I shared my life with will be much missed. He was loved by many and respected by all. In his memory, love life.

Page 10 August 2008

Meriden Park And Recreation News and Events SUMMER SOUNDS CONCERTS The Summer Sounds Concert Series concludes with four exciting performances for the month of August(all shows take place at Hubbard Park's James J. Barry bandshell). On Thursday, August 7th, southern rockers the Whiskey River Band can be heard from 7:00-8:30PM. On Thursday, August 14th, the country sounds of the Monthei Brothers Band can be heard from 7:00-8:30PM. The Eddie Forman Orchestra brings polka to the stage on Tuesday, August 19th from 6:30-8:00PM. The Beatles tribute band Number Nine will have their rescheduled performance on Thursday, August 28th from 6:30-8:30PM. All concerts are free to the public with refreshments available for purchase. PUBLIC SWIM The 2008 Outdoor Public Swim Program at the Hubbard Park pool will take place through Friday, August 22nd. The pool's daily hours of operation are from 12-6:30PM(open swim). Adult swim(6:45-7:45PM) will take place through Friday, August 8th. Updates on the program's hours of operation can be found by calling the Recreation Activity Line at 630-4279. All interested participants must possess a valid 2008 pool pass. Available for purchase at the Parks & Recreation office, it costs $5.00 for adults & $1.00 for children ages 17 & under. Potential recipients must come to the office in-person and bring proof of Meriden residency to receive a pass. SUMMER FUN RUNS PROGRAM The 2008 Summer Fun Runs Program will be held on Wednesday nights at the Platt High School track through August 20th. The free runs will get underway at 6:30PM and feature a ¾ mile race for children and a 5K race for adults. LIONS CLUB WATERPARK The Meriden Lions Club Waterpark, located on the corner of Park Avenue & Franklin Street(City Park), has the following hours of operation(weather permitting): Mondays-Saturdays 12:00PM-4:00PM Sundays 2:00PM-5:00PM MERIDEN SKATEPARK The Meriden Skatepark, located on the corner of Coe Avenue & Hamilton Street, has the following hours of operation (weather permitting): School Days 2:00PM-Dusk Non-School Days 11:00AM-Dusk CASTLE CRAIG The vehicle access road to Castle Craig is open daily from 10:00AM-4:45PM, weather permitting. The entrance to the road is located under the eastern Interstate 691 overpass in Hubbard Park.

MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNOUNCES NEW HOURS The Meriden Public Library announces their new hours. Summer hours (July 7 through August 30) will be Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday. Beginning in September, the Library will be open Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed Sunday. The Library will be closed for Labor Day on Monday, September 1. If you have any questions about our hours, please call the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349

PLAY SCRABBLE AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY The Meriden Public Library will be hosting sessions in August for people to come and play Scrabble. Come alone or with a friend to learn or practice the game. The Scrabble sessions will be held on Mondays at 2:00 pm in the Friends Room on the following dates: August 4 and August 18. If you would like to play Scrabble in the fall, contact the Community Services Department at 630-6349. In winter I get up at night And dress by yellow candle-light. In summer quite the other way I have to go to bed by day. ~Robert Louis Stevenson

What you need to know...

Good Old Sundays

By Carol Carbutti The good old days brings to mind many images but one mention of the good old Sundays has me freeze framed in time at the immense kitchen table, Down The House as we affectionately called it. My mother was the oldest of fourteen children. She grew up in this seventeen hundreds colonial sea captains house in downtown Norwalk. It was the gathering place for the extensive family on Sundays after 12 o'clock Mass. By one o'clock you scoped out your key position at the table after securing yourself some coffee and trying to sneak some home fries or hot stuff lingering in bacon fat. Everyone that was important in my life was there. If they weren't there at the beginning of the festivities, they showed up near the end and stretched our good times. The kitchen door was never locked and its promised openness welcomed anyone. We lingered for hours in many heated conversations about world events and I so miss those aunts, uncles and cousins who were great listeners and conversation catalysts. No one rushed off because there was no place to go but home for the next big Sunday supper meal. I always knew what that meal was going to be because I'd wake up to the smell of garlic, basil , and meatsballs frying in the huge sauce pan and simmering for hours. This fantastic blend of old world recipes carried to America by my ancestors smothered our pasta and the smells produced the delicious memory of last Sundays meal. It seems apparent that food is an intregal part of my trips through memory lane. Down The House did have central heat but only central to the livingroom. Therefore the kitchen on cold wintry days had only its six burner stove to heat it. The swinging kitchen door leading to the dining room would remain closed to hold in the heat but if that wasn't enough three or four of us would back up our fannies to the stove to roast a bit. If I was really lucky, I could convince six or eight of my family members to get a German Pinocle game going that lasted hours and produced waves of laughter. When we managed to stay long enough, we would get invited to the dinner meal but we had to pay for that by participating in the rosary. My aunt would take the rotary phone off the hook and hang it on the curtain rod as we chose our quiet seat to meditate during the repetitious medley of prayer. From a child's perspective the time spent on prayer was extremely long but the good times made it worth it. It would be so wonderful to be invited for just one more old time Sunday breakfast and have the place full of all those wonderful people . The Norwalk historical society dismantled Down-The-House ten years ago and I'm told its being stored somewhere safely waiting for the right location to reassemble it. I long for those lingering Sundays when we didn't have to go anywhere but be with your family and relate. These memories give me warm feelings inside and threaten to encourage me to invite everyone over this Sunday for a brunch as we call it now. Although it's not the same experience, I want to try to recapture it by nurturing family and friends through gatherings . Hopefully, my good old Sundays experiences has influenced my children and grandchildren to establish their traditions and the beat goes on…………

A Beautiful but Surprising Summer Sunday By Janet Carroll Althouse I remember one particular Summer Sunday when my two oldest girls were about 4 and 6 or maybe 5 and 7. We went to a park near our home with some other friends. There was a small creek running through this park and you know how children cannot resist playing in the water and using their imaginations to build dams and ever so many other interesting inventions. I even enjoy getting my hands and bare feet in a cool, clear stream on a hot summer day. But what was especially great about this creek was that it was filled with pollywogs. My girls were fascinated with them and whiled away the hours gathering them in whatever containers they could find. But, soon, too soon for them, the sun was slowly sliding toward the horizon and we had to leave and go home. So, they collected as many pollywogs as their father would allow them to have, and we headed home. The girls were in the back seat and had been told to sit down and not stand up. (This was before seat belts.) But being still excited from the days adventures they had a problem with sitting. Their father could sometimes be a little too spontaneous, to put it in polite terms, and as we were going through this small town, the car in front of us slammed on its brakes making it necessary for my husband to do the same, and since our youngest daughter was standing right behind him with a paper cup filled with pollywogs the back of his neck was the recipient of the cold, clammy and wriggling pollywogs. As you can imagine, this was somewhat of a surprise to him, to say the least. He jumped out of the stopped car, opened the back door, grabbed our daughter and proceeded to place a few swats to the area intended for them. Which, of course, brought tears, but not so much because the swats were painful, but because she lost her pollywogs.

AN INVITATION TO ARTISANS, CRAFT PEOPLE AND SCULPTORS FOR CELEBRATE WALLINGFORD 2008 Wallingford Center, Inc. is inviting artists to participate in Celebrate Wallingford 2008 which will take place the weekend of October 4th and 5th. The 22nd annual street festival will be located at Fishbein Park and surrounding neighborhood in downtown Wallingford. Celebrate Wallingford 2008 applicants will be juried by a select group of professional artisans to provide the public with the finest and highest quality art and crafts. For information and applications call Wallingford Center, Inc, 203-284-1807 or by email wallingfordcenter@sbcglobal.net.

New Officers Installed for the Wallingford Garden Club Lillian Weaver was installed as the president of the Wallingford Garden Club at the June 10th meeting held at the Traditions restaurant at Pilgrim's Harbor. The other officers installed were Barbara Bruce, vice president, Chris Walsh, treasurer, Carolyn Heine, secretary, and Marilyn Ollayos corresponding secretary. Nell Short, Garden Club member and past president installed the officers for the 2008-2009 year. After a delicious luncheon Marilyn Ollayos, the current president summarized the civic contributions the club has made to the town in the past year. Highlights included: the Gardener's Market, caring for public gardens in town, planting at the Homeless Shelter, holding the annual plant sale, making Christmas wreaths for the town and assisting the Congregational Church in making wreaths. In addition, the club won seven awards from the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut and member, Barbara Bruce won two first place awards in the Federated Garden Club flower show. The club held a flower show of their own on June 14th at the Wallingford Senior Center. It has been a busy year. The new officers installed by the Wallingford Garden Club are, left to right Lillian Weaver, president; Barbara Bruce, vice president; Chris Walsh, treasurer; Carolyn Heine, secretary; and Marilyn Ollayos corresponding secretary. Nell Short, foreground, Garden Club member and past president, performed the installation ceremony.

We are proud to be celebrating our 104th year in the fruit growing business! 1904-2 2008 Find out why by stopping by!

Stop by TODAY for our own Tree Ripened Peaches, Plumbs and Nectarines 141 Blue Hills Rd., Wallingford

Our Country Store re-opens on August 1st! We look forward to seeing you again! Also Frozen Pies, Jams, Pickles, Jellies, Maple Syrup, etc.

New Hours Fri, Sat from 10-6 Sunday from 11-4

Fresh Veggies now at the Country Store. Native Corn, Tomatoes, Squash and more. Look for apples in Mid-August!

2 Country blocks west of the Oakdale Theater

(203) 269-3189

Page 11 August 2008

Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals

Celebrations of Life & Home

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. Let us all make this summer a summer filled with adventure. June and Flora Dear Housewives, I am planning on going back to work 3 days a week. My mother will be watching our two children all day. They are 2 1/2 and 6 years old. My husband and I disagree as to whether or not to pay her. I think no, he thinks yes. What do you two Housewives think? Pay Grandma or not in CT JUNE: Dear Pay, I think you should definitely offer to pay her even though she probably would not accept. There are a few things to consider too. Does she need the money? Is she leaving a paying job to watch your kids for you? Even if she doesn't accept money for watching them you should leave money for them to do activities so she is not paying for movies, treats, lunches out or ice cream cones. Make sure that you get her a nice gift every so often as well to show your appreciation. FLORA: You know if your Mom is in need of money. If she could use the extra cash but won't accept, buy her some groceries each week, cut her lawn, pay for her car to be serviced. Do pay for the necessary things in life and treat her to dinner every so often! Dear Housewives, It is summertime again and every year my husband and I disagree over sending our child to summer camp. She is shy and I feel she would benefit from doing other things with other kids. He feels she should be home with me and not feeling alone and shy at camp. He won the last two years but this year I am standing my ground. Can you help? Poison Ivy in Meriden FLORA: Hmmm....I wonder if hubby had some separation issues as a tyke... Could it be the cost of sending her to camp with you being home? Investigate and find if there is a half-day program for your daughter to try. If she is shy, don't push her into anything that can backfire. Ease into whatever you decide. Let us know in the fall what you and your husband decide to do. JUNE: Good question! This is the first year I have sent my oldest little June bug to camp and for the most part he liked it. He is on the shy side when he is with kids he doesn't know so it helped that I sent him to a camp where he had two classmates in his group. He ended up meeting some other nice kids and wasn't sitting around the house bored or fighting with his younger brother all day. I think you should send her as long as it doesn't cause her real physical anxiety. She may not be the type of kid who likes camp and she may not be ready. Your husband has a point but I think if she is old enough you should try it once. If she doesn't learn to love it find other ways for her to branch out. You could go to a play groups, invite friends over, take her out to museums and restaurants to be around strangers more. She may learn to loosen up around others. Good luck. Summer Fun Hey Flora, we have been enjoying the library programs this summer, how about you? We have also been going to the local parks to enjoy some good old fashioned playground fun. Hey June, we have been enjoying the library too! We have been swimming, playing tennis and having some good old fashioned fun outside playing too!

"Purr-f fect Companions" Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer Boy, do we have a cat for you! With the large selection of cats and kittens presently at the M.H.S., why would you go anywhere else to find one? You want a cute cuddly kitten? We've got them. One that's frisky and full of energy? We've got them too! From chatty cats to sweet, shy lap cats, there's a perfect companion for you at the M.H.S. If you are unsure about what kind of feline is for you, please come on down and spend some time with them. This will give you the chance to see who comes to you and for you to get to know their personalities. There are many people who don't make a decision on their first visit and return to find the perfect friend. The staff and volunteers are there to assist you in making the right choice to suite your life style and your surroundings. As always, we desperately need homes for some of our cats that don't adjust well to the large cat population that we have. Some of these cats are Sheba, Rotini, Zeus, Alonso, Sadie, France, Ace, Kelli, Honeydew, Violet, Verizon, Big Poppa, Marge, Celena, Jewel and Maggie. It has been very slow for donations in the past couple of months and we have so many mouths to feed. Ground wet cat food (no fish please), Purina cat and kitten chow, Alpo or Pedigree canned dog food, bedding (sheets, towels, blankets, etc.) and cleaning supplies are just a few things that would be VERY appreciated. We will be having a huge tag sale in September to raise funds for the animals. Anything that you would like to donate to help us, can be dropped off after August 1st at the M.H.S. Please check our website for updates, fundraisers and of course, to view the animals. The Meriden Humane Society is located at 311 Murdock Ave. We can also be reached by phone at (203)238-3650 or our website www.meridenhs.petfinder.org. Thank you for your continued support. See you at the shelter!

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE OPENING IN NEW LOCATION Over the past six weeks, a hard-working crew from the Friends of the Library has moved over 10,000 books and the bookcases to put them in from their old location in downtown Meriden to new quarters at 35 West Main Street, a block away. This monumental move included the re-evaluation and winnowing of the existing stock of books and addition of .many new titles for a top-grade offering of first rate, gently used books. Book lovers are invited to come in and check out the collection starting Monday, July 14, when the new store will open its doors for business. Store hours will remain the same: Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, the bookstore will be one of the sites included in the Thursday evening Art Walks around downtown which are currently being planned. Book prices will remain the same: $2 for hard covers and $1 for paperbacks with trade paperbacks selling at $2 each and the newest titles and special collection books selling for a bit more. As soon as the store opens for business, book donations will once again be accepted at the Meriden Public Library. Only newer, good quality books are wanted and no books should be brought to the store.

The People’s Press - Get Happy With It!

PRACTO O R I CH SINCE 1981 R DR. STANLEY HARRIS Misalignment of the Spine causes Pain, Stress and Dis-ease.

Chiropractic Aligns the S pine and removes the interference!

TRY CHIROPRACTIC! Most Insurance Plans Accepted.

826 East Center St. Wallingford Next to Dairy Mart

265-2171

From Meriden I-91S to Exit 14, take right, 1 mile

On August 5th Bob Golitko will celebrate his 62nd birthday.This year he will retire from a job he held for 29 years.Come to the Wallingford Gardeners Market and wish him a Happy Birthday & Retirement,you`ll find him at the breakfast booth.He`s a great guy. Love from his wife Carole

Page 12 August 2008

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

The Kids Press!

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

Cuddles

This is a story which is true about a guinea pig named Cuddle. Cuddles is 9 months old and was named Cuddles simply because this is what she likes to do with people. She is in the pet therapy program at Masonic Home and Hospital in Wallingford. She was volunteered by her owner, Linda Nordgren to be brought to Masonic to visit residents escorted by Wendy and Justine Nordgren. Cuddles is a very welcomed and in demand visitor by the residents and staff. Cuddles was visiting residents on one or two floors when she started about two ;months ago and is now up to visiting residents on four or five floors. She just loves being held, talked to petted and of course cuddled! She goes to visit every other Sunday. Cuddles enjoys her bath and brushing to get ready for her visits. She is quiet and will give "kisses" and will stand up on her hind legs when you tell her "up" to get her out of her cage. She enjoys being outside with her two friends, Liz and Pixie which are about her that also live with her or they all play inside getting exercise in a playpen. Of course Cuddles favorite snack is clover but she also loves fresh spinach and rose leaves (not the flower), cucumbers to name a few. Her visits have helped to brighten some residents day just being able to hold and love her brings a smile to their face as Cuddles will sit there quietly enjoying their company as well. Residents get a chance to get their picture taken with Cuddles and gets to keep the picture free of charge from Wendy and Justine. Anyone interested in having a visit from Cuddles may contact the social worker or the Masonic office. There isn't any charge to get to see Cuddles when she goes to visit.

Is Proud to Sponsor The Kids Press

August 25th

8/30/08

8/30/08

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Page 13 August 2008

WalkCT Family Hike FREE! Saturday, 8/30, 10:00 a.m.; Letterboxing in the Cockaponset State Forest, Haddam; Ages 4 years+ Clue detectives unite! Join us for a fun-filled adventure of following clues, searching for letterboxes, and enjoying the sights and sounds of summer in the forest. What secrets might the forest share with us? We'll look for old stone steps, swamps and ledges, and a once active charcoal mound. Bring your own letterbox stamp and notepad if you have it; if not, we'll have enough for you to share. Directions: Route 9 to exit 8 - Beaver Meadow Road. Turn left and first right onto Weiss Road to the end; right onto Filley Road; pass under highway where it turns into a forest road; first right onto Jericho Road; go ~200 yards on left is 2nd sandpit with parking area. What are WalkCT Family Hikes? Bring the kids! Feel the fresh air and enjoy quality time outdoors together. Family Hikes, led by trained Family Hike Leaders, are part of Connecticut Forest & Park Association's initiative, WalkConnecticut the trail to health and happiness. Family Hikes are free as a public service to the children and families of Connecticut. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. Locations are subject to change; call CFPA at (860) 346-2372 and visit www.ctwoodlands.org <http://www.ctwoodlands.org/> for additional Family Hikes. Babies in backpacks welcome. To ensure a safe and enjoyable time: 1. Bring water, snack, and your excitement 2. Leave pets at home 3. Wear sturdy shoes 4. Remember to bring your parents and caregivers. Join us for adventure along the trails, held throughout Connecticut the last weekend each month.

VOLUNTEERING AT MIDSTATE Volunteers provide invaluable assistance to all areas of MidState Medical Center. The Volunteer Department is looking to increase volunteer staffing in several key areas of the medical center. Due to our expansion project, volunteers are needed to provide escorting and transport services at the new entrance to the Emergency Department. There is high demand for volunteers in our Emergency Department reception area. These volunteers provide customer service to all visitors and patients by providing friendly visits and act as liaisons, ensuring that all individuals are comfortable and kept well-informed during their stay. "Soft Touch" volunteers provide hand and foot rubs to our patients. Training in the technique of "soft touch" will be held in the fall. If you enjoy meeting and greeting the public, and have excellent customer service skills, please contact the Volunteer Office at 694-8275

Celebrations of Life and Home

By Barb Sherburne

Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet

Would you believe I picked my very first tomatoes on July 11th? That was early this year. What a change from midAugust last year. I have picked about nine tomatoes so far. Yum. I ate most of them right in the garden, not bothering to go home first. Today is July 22nd. I have also been picking cucumbers, but a strange thing happened this year - some of my cucumbers ripened in a yellow color. They were not rotten, but they just ripened as yellow instead of green. I would have to do some research to find out why. I picked two zucchini at my garden at home, but nothing else there yet. The cucumbers are doing a good job climbing up the trellis, so that is working out well. I think I will have yellow squash very soon. That's at home. Back at the Community Garden, I must have plucked out at least 50 cleomes. They emerged late and were just encompassing everything, miles away from where I had them last year. I left a few here and there, but they were everywhere. I hate to "kill" plants, but they would certainly have done away with the cukes and other vegetables had I not pulled them out. My corn, for the second year in a row, is not doing well. I don't know if it's the seed I used, but they did not get very tall, shot up the top part of the plant, which turned brown, the silk turned brown also, and I doubt I'll get any corn. Next year I will buy a different brand of seed. As for the artichoke experiment, I think I planted them too close together. They are still alive, but it is not looking like they will form any fruit this year. I am not sure if it takes two years or not to do so, but, so far, no artichokes. A "volunteer" sunflower emerged next to the artichokes, and I left it there. Meanwhile the particular brand of sunflower seeds I bought this year are producing the slowest and shortest growing sunflowers I have ever seen in my life. There are sunflowers in various parts of the Community Garden that are about 10 feet tall. I think mine are about two feet tall. The lilies are all doing well, and I have yet to know if the Black-Eyed Susans can compete with all that are around them. You would have to see this garden to understand. There is barely a place to walk in it. Very crowded. The basil is doing great, and I already made a batch of pesto, and it was very tasty. I am expecting lots of tomatoes to be coming forth in the next few weeks, but am so disappointed that a six-pack I bought was mismarked. I have no cherry tomatoes this year, which are a favorite of mine. This will be the first time in like 10 years that I will have no cherry tomatoes, which is a bummer for me. So far the tomatoes I have picked are a medium size, and I have no idea what they are, but they taste good, and I guess that's the important part. The marigolds and zinnias look gorgeous, and they will fill out a lot in the coming weeks. Actually, if you were to visit my garden at the Wallingford Community Garden, it would probably appear to be mostly flowers, but really, I do have vegetables there too. I think I need a bigger garden. My best wishes to all of you who are gardening, and happy watering! There is nothing like getting a forecast for seven days in a row of rain and not getting one drop. That's why I water just about every day, and not to mention pulling thousands of weeds. There is some work involved for sure, but it is worth it, at least to me. barndt49@yahoo.com

"OVERDRIVE" DOWNLOADABLE BOOKS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Are you looking for something to bring along on your Monday morning commute or day at the beach but can't get to the library? Don't despair - "Overdrive" has arrived! "Overdrive" allows a patron with a Meriden Library card access to books that can be downloaded to their home computer and then transferred to an MP3 player or burned to a compact disc 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just log onto the Meriden Public Library's site at www.meridenlibrary.org and follow the instructions to browse and download books. The loan period is two weeks, after which the downloaded book file will disappear from the patron's computer. Give it a try and you'll never be without access to a good book. For more information, contact the Meriden Public Library at (203) 238-2346.

Summer with Social Security - August 26, 2008 The Center for Successful Aging and MidState's LaPlanche Clinic will be jointly sponsoring a presentation titled "Summer with Social Security" on August 26, 2008. The presentation will be held from 10:30-11:30am in the mezzanine of the Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Center, located at 22 West Main Street in Meriden. A representative from the Meriden Social Security office will discuss the new "Direct Express" debit card program and how to use the internet to access social security services. This presentation is free and open to the public. For more information please call Rita Kowalchik at the Meriden Health Department, 630-4222.

You Are Invited to a Free Concert! St. John's Youth Group is sponsoring a free community concert and you are invited to join us for an evening of musical entertainment provided by the: Middletown Symphonic Band Wednesday, August 6, 2008 7:00p.m. Location: St. John Lutheran Church Lawn 520 Paddock Avenue, Meriden What to Bring: Lawn chair or blanket The Middletown Symphonic Band will perform various selections including movie excerpts, medleys paying tribute to our country, polkas, Irish folk tunes, marches and much more. Selections for all ages!

Wallingford Girls 10 year old All-Stars Advance... Players - Mikaeyla Daddio, Shannon Bissell, Samantha Forster, Meghan Gavin, Emily Gersz, Ashley Haskell, Nicole Kiernan, Rebecca Marks, Melissa Pereira, Kimberlyn Petit, Sara Pisanelli, Katlin Reed, Makayla Ricci, Rebecca Souza. Coaches - Dan Daddio, Michelle Ricci, Mark Bissell

Make Someone Smile with Flowers They can't help but feel a little better when a bright yellow happy face carrying a cheerful bouquet arrives. Smiles guaranteed.

Rose Flowers and Gifts Gifts, Gourmet Baskets and of course our famous Flowers

232 West Main Street in Meriden 203-235-5759 www.roseflowersgifts.com Delivery to all of Central Connecticut

Going to College? Are you a Wallingford Resident headed To College?

Remember to apply for your Absentee Ballot for the upcoming Presidential Election! Waiting until the last minute may result in your vote not counting! Come into the Wallingford Town Clerkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office to apply. We are located in the Wallingford Town Hall, Room 108, 45 South Main Street. Call 203.294.2145

Page 14 August 2008

Summertime at the Wallingford Public Library

Branford New Price! Great 2 BR end unit Townhouse! LR w/fireplace, cathedral ceilings & sliders to Deck. Lower Level w/addt'l 200 sf. MBdrm w/Balcony, 2 closets, & Bath. $201,900, Loriann, x303

Hamden Newly Listed! In Mt. Carmel, charming updated 3 BR Ranch that includes new Kitchen & Bath. Large level fenced-in yard, new roof. In move-in condition. $279,000, Dom, x314

West Haven Newly Listed! Turn key unit. Ranch-style condo! Enjoy Living Room area w/separate Dining area, large Bedroom. 1st floor convenient for all. Walking distance to beach! $160,000, Kashti, x323

Hamden Newly Listed! Forget about renting! This Ranch-style condo offers 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath w/walk-in closet & laundry on site. HOA includes heat & hot water. Great for students. In quiet wooded area. $65,900, Kashti, x323

East Haven Newly Listed! Great home with a lot of history. 2 staircases lead you to Den, 3 BRs, & full Bath. Remodeled eat-in Kit, large LR, & Lower Level FR. 4 season Porch overlooks well maintained yard. $289,900, Barbara, x304

203.466.7653 Toll Free, 1.866.281.4956 232 Main Street, East Haven

By Beth Devlin, Director Back in Illinois, where I spent my childhood, summers seemed to stretch on forever. We would get out of school the first week of June and wonder if the 4th of July would ever come. We couldn't wait to run around with sparklers on the front lawn, then plug our ears and watch our Dad set off his cannon behind the house. Labor Day was too far off to even think about and those long days of summer would melt into a never ending haze of heat and humidity. To cool off, we had two options: the garden hose or the air-conditioned local library. Since my older siblings inevitably hogged the hose, I would choose to get on my bike and ride the four blocks to "cool and quiet." Usually I would just sit there and read a Nancy Drew mystery. One time I found Madeleine L'Engel's "A Wrinkle in Time" and thought it was the most remarkable story ever written. There weren't any library programs for kids my age. There weren't any programs for anyone who was beyond the age of preschool. There were just books and magazines. No DVDs, no CDs, not even an audio cassette or videotape. And computers were something that only big, giant corporations like IBM, had whirring around in special dust proof rooms. But the library was the only air-conditioned place in our neighborhood that kids were allowed to come and go as they pleased. But not many did. I rarely saw any of my friends there. Only my pesky little sister would tag along with me on occasion and that wasn't any fun whatsoever. Summers have gotten much shorter since I've been living in Connecticut. The school year seems to be just about year 'round and sometimes the 4th of July becomes the first weekend of summer vacation. Labor Day definitely comes too quickly but the weather is still hot and the library is still air conditioned. But air conditioning isn't the only thing that welcomes people from the steamy sidewalks of summer; the library has programs! Programs for all ages, from Itty Bitty Babies to Adults. So if you are looking for something to do and a cool place to do it, check out the Wallingford Public Library where books, music, movies, and a whole lot more are readily available to help you chill out! For the Kids: Summer Storytimes - Now that our new Children's Room is open we are happy to tell you that our Storytimes have begun! This summer all of our Storytime Programs will be drop-in, except for the Wednesday afternoon Mother Goose Program, which is a registered program. In our Drop-In Programs, we will be able to accommodate as many as the rooms allow. PLEASE NOTE: Wallingford residents are given priority for all programs. Please stop by the information desk and show your library card to get a name tag before the program begins. Due to fire laws, space is limited to the rooms capacity. Thank You. Itty Bitty Babies- up to 12 months (Drop-In) Thursdays: 1:30 p.m. June 5, 19, 26th, July 10, 17, 31st & August 7th Program Room Itty Bitty Babies is a drop-in program for parents/caregivers and their babies up to 12 months. It is a fun interactive program that introduces babies and their grown-ups to the library and features songs, rhymes, bouncing, a story or two and an opportunity to meet others. Mother Goose - one and two year-olds (Drop-In) Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. July 2, 9, 23, 30th & August 6th Large Meeting Room Mother Goose - one and two year olds (Registered) Wallingford residents may register beginning June 18th. If spaces are available non-residents may register beginning Tuesday, July 1st. Wednesdays: 1:30 p.m. July 2 ,9, 23, 30th & August 6th Large Meeting Room Mother Goose is a program for children ages 12 months to 36 months (one and two year-olds) and their parents/caregivers. This energetic program features songs, stories, rhymes and a whole lot more. Preschool Storytimes - three to five year-olds (Drop-In) Tuesday: 10:00 a.m and 7:00 p.m. July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29th & August5th Program Room Thursdays: 10:00 a.m. (DropIn) July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31st & August 7th Program Room Preschool storytime is a drop-in program for children ages 3-5 and their parents/caregivers. Younger siblings are also welcome. This program features stories for 3 to 5 year-olds, songs, rhymes, flannelboard stories and lots of fun! Bilingual Storytimes July 7,14,21,28th &August 4th Program Room Join us for our drop-in bilingual storytime. Stories, songs, rhymes and more will be shared in English and Spanish. For the Teens: Let's Rock & Roll Teen Summer Reading Program - Rock on this summer and participate in the Wallingford Public Library's Teen Summer Reading Program! Read what you like and earn a chance to win prizes for every 100 pages you read. The program kicks off on June 30th. This summer's prizes include autographed pictures of Drew Barrymore, Michael Jordan, Angelina Jolie, and the UNC Men's Basketball Team! If celebrities aren't your thing, gift certificates from Amore Apizza, Holiday Cinemas, Prime Climb, Praline's Ice Cream, and much more will also be awarded. The more you read the more chances you have to win! There is no official registration required to participate in the Rock & Roll Reading Program and Reader's Entry Forms are available from the Information Desk beginning June 30. All students entering grades 6 through 12 are welcome to participate. Rock and Roll themed events will take place at the library throughout the summer including a special live performance by Detroit Rock & Roll Band, "The High Strung" on August 21 at 6:00 p.m. in the Community Room. Sign up is encouraged! Please call the library for more information: 203-265-6754. Twilight Saga Trivia Tournament! - To celebrate the release of Stephenie Meyer's fourth book in the Twilight Series "Breaking Dawn" we will be having a trivia tournament on Tuesday, August 5, 6:00-8:00 pm in the Collins Room! Categories will include the books "Twilight", "Eclipse", and "New Moon" as well as "The Twilight Movie" and "About the Author". Are you up for the challenge?? There will be prizes for the winners. Bring a plain shirt and we will make Twilight Saga shirts! We will watch the trailer for the movie as well as interviews with Stephenie. A Rock & Roll Concert at the Library - We are thrilled to announce that we will be a participating library in the 2008 Rock & Roll Library Tour! On Thursday, August 21st at 6 pm Detroit rock sensation The High Strung will transform the Community Room into a concert hall and rock out. The show will last 90 minutes and include an interactive session where the audience and the band create a song together! Don't miss this amazing culmination to the Summer Reading Program. Visit www.thehighstrung.com to check out the band's web site. This is a free event open to all ages. Please call 265-6754 to register. Bowling: Teens to challenge seniors - The Wallingford Teens will be travelling to the Wallingford Senior Center on Wednesday, August 13th to challenge the Seniors in a Nintendo Wii Bowling Tournament!! The Nintendo Wii is a handheld interactive video system which has become very popular among all age groups. In the Wii Bowling game participants mimic the movement of real bowling without the strain of a heavy ball. Tryouts for the Teen Bowling Team will be on Wednesday, July 30th in the Wallingford Library Community Room from 6-8pm. Any Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome. Sign up is encouraged. Top scorers of the night advance to the Senior Tournament. Any Seniors interested in participating in the Tournament can contact the Wallingford Senior Center at (203)265-7753. Please call the Information Desk at (203)265-6754 for details or you may e-mail Teen Librarian Jennifer Nash at jnash@lioninc.org. Teen Club - A group of teens in middle and high school working together all year to gather celebrity prizes and author-autographed books for the Teen Summer Reading program. This program attracts over 200 teens each summer. The Teen Club also does other projects, hosts programs for teens, socializes, and generally has a lot of fun. The group meets twice a month on Wednesday evenings at 7 pm with two teen librarian club advisers. Young Astronauts - Co-sponsored with the Department of Youth and Social Services, this group, under the direction of teacher, Chris Stone, meets once a month and is involved with space related projects and includes field trips, guest speakers, Space Day celebration in May, and many hands-on projects. Mother/Daughter Book Groups - A group composed of teen girls and their mothers or other adult woman friend who meet monthly to discuss young adult books. The group selects a title each month which everyone reads and discusses. Books are obtained through the Library. Refreshments are served. These are all programs we run for young adults at the library, but what else do you want? Let us know, and you might even get it. For the Adults: Frank Lloyd Wright: Fact and Fiction - America's preeminent architect, Frank Lloyd Wright was a master builder, a rebel and a worshipper of nature. During his lifetime, despite his genius (or perhaps because of it), Wright's lifestyle, personality, and even his work were often the subjects of great controversy. Throughout the month of July, the library will celebrate the life and creative genius of Frank Lloyd Wright through factual documentary and historical fiction. We hope you will take an interest and join the discussions generated by exploring this American icon of architecture. Book Discussion: Loving Frank by Nancy Horan Tuesday, July 22nd 7:00 p.m. Collins Meeting Room Join us for the final installment of our Frank Lloyd Wright program as we discuss Nancy Horan's novel, "Loving Frank." This novel is a blend of fact and fiction and tells the story of Frank Lloyd Wright's affair with Mamah Borthwick Cheney. Continued on Page 15

Page 15 August 2008

Continued from Page 14 Copies of the book are available through our catalog in both print and digital formats. Additional copies of the book are available from the library's Information Desk through the cooperation of the Connecticut Humanities Council. A Night at the Movies Cinema Club, Tuesday August 5th at 6:30 p.m. A real classic for Cinema Club: Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall in To Have and Have Not. You can virtually see Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall falling for each other in this Howard Hawks variation on Casablanca but adapted from--as legend has it--Ernest Hemingway's self-declared "worst novel." (The story goes that Hawks told Hemingway he could make a movie of the author's least work, and Hemingway gave him the rights to this story.) The script by William Faulkner and Jules Furthman finally resulted in one of Hawks's and Bogart's greatest films. Bogart plays a boat captain who reluctantly agrees to help the French Resistance while wooing chanteuse Bacall. Hoagy Carmichael, wry at the piano, adds a delicious accent to an already wonderful mood. Family Movie Night, Thursday August 14th at 6:30 p.m. Nicholas Cage and Diane Kruger star in the "rip-roaring scavenger hunt" that is National Treasure. Like a Hardy Boys mystery on steroids, National Treasure offers popcorn thrills and enough boyish charm to get the audience cheering. The movie serves up an enjoyable dose of PG-rated entertainment, full of musty clues, skeletons, deep tunnels, and harmless adventure in the old-school tradition MPAA Rating PG - for some violence and action. Keep an eye on the Library website for any other movie events we may put together over the summer. Hope to see you at 200 N. Main Street or at our Yalesville Branch real soon. Please call for hours and more information: 203-265-6754.

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WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA WATER SAFETY POSTER CONTEST WINNERS. This past June the Wallingford Family YMCA presented a Water Safety program to all the Wallingford Public Schools 3rd graders. The students were then invited to create a Water Safety Poster. The YMCA selected the following students as their school's winner: Karli Scall- Cook Hill, Samantha AlvaradoMoses Y Beach, Jane Marr- Rock Hill, Mercedes C., Mackenzie WilsonHighland, Rachel Mule- Pond Hill, Hunter Komm. Each of the winners received a certificate for 1 session of free swim lessons at the Wallingford Family YMCA. The posters are currently on display at the Y. The sudden disappointment of a hope leaves a scar which the ultimate fulfillment of that hope never entirely removes. ~Thomas Hardy

Celebrations of Life and Home On June 11th, 2008, Stephanie Griffin of Wallingford CT was one of many who became the recipient of awards of recognition as a student at Lyman Hall High School. Stephanie received awards based on her dedication to courses of education in courses of Biology, Spanish 3 and Algebra 2. With those awards, she received a Metal and The Silver Dollar.

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Several Students at Lyman Hall High School received awards of recognition for their outstanding performance in levels of grades, dedication and strong efforts Lyman Hall bastilles in the students that attend the school. The school encourages students to a bright future and through this recognition, the students learn to thrive more on all areas of achievements. Stephanie is the daughter of Tom and Maggie Della Rocco-Griffin, sister of Tommy Griffin and Grand Daughter of Florence DeLucia-Della Rocco, the late Thomas and Mary Anne Griffin and the late Domenic Della Rocco of Hamden CT. She works in volunteer service for raising funds for The Relay for Life, lives by moral beliefs and is also multi-musically talented. To include, she is on the Lyman Hall in-door Track Team and has proven responsibilities above and beyond expectations. Stephanie has been recognized as a repeated honor roll student since 6th grade and looks forward to achieving more goals in choices of studies, academics and community service. Maggie Griffin quotes "My Daughter is the best in the bunch in the Della Rocco Family. Both Tom and I are very proud of her achievements, encouraging her to continue her goals. We also would like to extend our congratulations to all the students who received awards and thank you to Lyman Hall for our daughter's recognition of achievements that resulted in tears of proud parents. Today's youth is tomorrow's leaders and all of them have received important awards that will take them to a path of future success in the careers they choose." To my daughter Stephanie - I am and always will be proud of everything you do. My Awards is You and your Brother. My Tears of Joy this evening is because I am more proud that you are my Daughter, all my hopes and dreams for you since the day I became pregnant with you is coming true and as my father said to me, "All it takes is a dream and the courage to make anything happen". Negative comments come from those who are insecure. Whenever you hear a negative comment, look at your achievements and remind yourself that the talent, knowledge, skills and professional with terrific manners in behavior is why you received these outstanding awards. You are not only an achiever, a believer of hope and a survivor, you are also making a difference in society.

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The People’s Press - Get Happy With It! www.peoplespressnews.com The deadline for our next issue is Aug. 26th! Celebrations of Life & Home Congratulations Anthony! You graduated from 5th Grade at C. Pulaski and are now onto Lincoln Middle School. Love, C. Noni

Celebrations of Life and Home

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Senior Care & Dealing with Depression Submitted by Carol Carbutti - Comfort Keepers of Wallingford Caregiving and Depression Caregiving and depression seem an unlikely duo, but it happens all the time. While in the process of providing exceptional care to others, many caregivers fail to provide themselves with proper care. How can such a situation develop? Providing proper care for others is oftentimes all-consuming, especially if the person receiving the care suffers from Alzheimer's or is incontinent. If you are an otherwise healthy and capable person but lately you've not been acting "right," the stress of your job may be taking a toll. Depression may be setting in, especially if you find yourself crying for no apparent reason, and/or feeling tired, angry, frustrated, anxious, or alone. Pay attention to these feelings; they'll likely get worse if you don't take action. Here are some tips for avoiding the depression that often accompanies caregiving: Make Time for Yourself Caregivers rarely take time for themselves. If you're not taking time to rest, eat well and exercise moderately, you will suffer. Maybe not today or next week, but it will happen. It really doesn't take long to plan and prepare nutritionallybalanced meals and snacks. Doing so gives your body the fuel it needs to perform all the tasks you ask of it. You've got to get uninterrupted rest, too. And as for exercise, everything counts. You don't need to work out at a gym for an hour a day. Get exercise any way you can: gardening, housekeeping, going up and down stairs, walking the aisles of the grocery store, playing your favorite sport, even pushing a wheelchair can get your heart beating and your blood flowing. Pace Yourself Do what you can, when you can. It may help to prioritize your caregiving duties. Focus on those daily tasks that absolutely must get done. Schedule the other tasks when you have time. Once you start to prioritize your work, you'll notice that you actually get more accomplished. Prioritizing allows you to focus on one thing at a time, rather than putting your hands into multiple projects, none of which ever seem to get finished. Ask for Help Caregivers often feel they are alone, whether or not they truly are. There are many reasons why caregivers don't seek assistance. But those reasons won't help with your situation so put them away. Talk the need for help over with other family members, and together, figure out when others can come in so you can have a break. If you have no family members, you've got to hire in-home help, or make arrangements at a senior day care facility. Do whatever it takes to get time off. YOUR health depends on this. Put a Moratorium on Guilt No one gains from feeling guilty. In fact, guilt is an immobilizing emotion. Let it go and you'll feel better instantly. Have Some Fun Keep social events on your calendar and your health will benefit. Get out to the movies, have coffee and a gripe session - do whatever it is that you enjoy - in the company of others. 1 )Personal Touch: Advantages of Individual Help Sometimes life goes more smoothly when you've got a companion. Not only does a home helper give you someone to talk to, a companion can help ease your burden, no matter what that burden is. Sometimes as we age we lose our companions and when that happens, life can seem lonely and even unbearable. But it doesn't have to be that way because nowadays, a home companion is someone you can hire. Building a relationship There are many advantages of having someone you can count on provide in home care and building a relationship is one of them. As with any type of relationship, your first experiences may seem a bit awkward and perhaps uncomfortable. After all, you're total strangers and you'll need time to get to know one another. You've probably got a routine and the in-home carer needs to learn it. But soon enough you'll hopefully be very comfortable with your home companion. And if you're not, there's a good chance you can talk with someone - a family member or the provider of your in home care - to see about finding another with whom you might get along better. After all, this person is coming in your home to help you so it's important that you're able to work together. With the same individual coming to your home regularly, you can't help but develop a relationship with that person. It won't take long before you're friends, chatting about nothing, going out to eat or to the movies, and helping you to cope with whatever life delivers. Remain in familiar surroundings The fact that this person is coming into your home is perhaps one of the biggest advantages of in home care. Rather than being uprooted, you get to remain in your home, a familiar place that's filled with your all your belongings and all your memories. That actually can help the relationship with your home companion grow. Your photographs, your decorating style, your pets and the like can tell a lot about the person you are. Knowing more about who you are is what's going to help your home companion understand you better. By understanding you and your individual needs better, you'll have someone on whom you can rely to give you the personal attention you need on a daily or regular basis. That personal attention might involve matters of personal hygiene, or housekeeping, or errand running, or help with daily tasks, or friendship or all of the above. The ability to pick and choose the type of assistance you need most and that you want is another of the advantages of individual in home care. There are other advantages, too. Family can relax knowing that you're getting the care and attention that they aren't able to provide, alleviating their guilt and their worry. In home care is also an affordable option and if you contract the services of a company that's reputable, licensed and bonded, there's little chance you or your home will be victimized in any way. ( 2 )Understanding Memory Loss What is memory loss? Memory loss is something we all experience in life. We forget familiar names, we cannot remember where we left our wallets and purses the previous evening, and we can't remember everything needed at the grocery store without having a list. This type of memory loss is perfectly normal and as we age, such mild forgetfulness may start happening more and more. However there are also times when memory loss is not attributed to aging. For example, memory loss is one of the first signs of Alzheimer's disease. Memory loss can also happen after suffering a traumatic experience. It can happen if you suffer from depression or are lonely, sad, worried and even when you're bored. It can result from dehydration, or after falling and hitting your head, or because of the way different medications you're taking interact with one another. Excessive use of drugs and alcohol can also be factors in memory loss. When does memory loss occur? Every person is different, but most will begin noticing forgetfulness around mid-life. What happens with memory loss is that over the course of your life, your brain cells start to die off causing a normal decline in your brain's ability to remember. Sometimes brain cells become damaged, such as after a stroke or a series of mini-strokes. Strokes interfere with the normal flow of blood to the brain, oftentimes decreasing its supply. Head injuries can also damage brain cells and cause memory loss. Demystifying some common myths associated with memory loss Memory loss cannot be reversed This is true if the memory loss is a symptom of another condition or disease such as Alzheimer's. However, if your problems are caused by drug interactions, a change in your prescription may help. If it's due to excessive alcohol consumption, cutting back can help. If it's because of a traumatic experience you may need professional guidance to help you to work through the situation. These scenarios are associated with "reversible" memory loss and as the name implies, the associated memory loss oftentimes can be reversed. There aren't any exercises for the mind This isn't true and mind exercises can help sharpen your memory so that you don't forget quite as often. Eating right and exercising provide valuable nutrients and improve circulation to the brain. Playing cards, learning new skills, doing puzzles and brain teasers, and maintaining an active and social life can all benefit your mind and help you stay focused and alert. Memory loss happens naturally as we age While this is probably true, it is never a good idea to assume that your forgetfulness is "normal." It could be the sign of another condition. That's why it is very important to share this problem with your medical specialist. Urine and blood tests, CAT scans, and recall tests in which the doctor asks you questions in an effort to determine how well you recall information can all be administered to help rule out other causes of memory loss. Independent living is a popular choice among today's elderly. The ability to remain in your own home where you can maintain your regular routine is both enjoyable and empowering. Whether your children live across the country or just across town, you'll want to communicate with them from time to time. With all the technology available today, communication has never be easier. Here are some options. Via the mail You might think that using the mail is outdated technology, but it has many benefits. Continued on Page 17

Page 17 August 2008

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CCC-YO! CCC-YOU! This will be the fifth season for the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra. 27 musicians strong, we are seeking another 10 musicians to round out our orchestra. All orchestral musicians are encouraged to join. Percussionists, violinists, clarinetists, bassoonists, oboists and violists are especially welcome! At times intense, always fun, the Orchestra is seeking even more young musicians to join the fine community of young people and their parents who make it all so much fun. We rehearse and perform at the beautiful Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, across from the Meriden City Hall. Our rehearsals are from 5 to 7PM. Four concerts a year- Thanksgiving, Valentines Day, Memorial Day and the Fifth Annual Spring Concert make sure that we rehearse and play the best of Classical music and we play a repertoire that is a spring-board to college and university music orchestras and bands. Some of our musicians like to play in smaller groups, called ensembles, where they get leadership training as well as musicianship training. Strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, we can have lot of fun in small groups, too! We encourage all of our musicians to perform solos at our concerts. Of course we give Community Service Hours! You'll earn about 92 hours for the school year. Our Music Director and Conductor is Mrs. Veronica Germain, a certified Music teacher who volunteers her time with the Orchestra. Tuition is $125 per family. Siblings are encouraged to audition, and when successfully auditioned are no extra charge. Families can pay monthly or in half-year portions. Send e-mail to meridenartstrust@yahoo.com or call our Administrator Mrs. Katrina Axelrod at (203) 235-7445 and talk to her about joining.

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Senior Care & Dealing with Depression continued from Page 16 It's easy to use, efficient, and it's probably the least expensive of your communication options. Even though it's earned the nickname "snail-mail" it's perfect for sending birthday cards, photographs, newspaper clippings and short notes telling your children that all is well. Communicating with family by email Email is faster than using regular mail and can be used for all the same reasons. If you've got a computer, access to the Internet and you're comfortable using a mouse and keyboard, you're all set! Landline telephones and cell phones Phones are instantaneous methods of two-way communication that most everyone is familiar with. With so many calling plans to choose from, many of which offer free minutes and free long distance, using phones to communication is also affordable. The only potential problem with cell phones is their many features. Checking voice mail and adding important telephone numbers into address books are worth learning, but as far as other features like text messaging and setting ring tones, their use is purely optional. Video conferencing Like a scene right out of the Jetson's, video conferencing is a technology that enables two-way video and audio communication. In other words, you can see and hear the person with whom you're communicating. It doesn't require a lot of expensive equipment, either. If you already have a computer loaded with instant messaging software, all you need is a web cam and an Internet connection. You'll also need a microphone and speakers, but computers usually have speakers built right in. Getting help You probably already know how to mail a letter and use the telephone. However, if need help setting up some of the other communication devices, here are some resources you can check out. Local electronics stores The larger chains offer technical services for hire. You simply explain what you need done, and the store will arrange the technical assistance you need. Local organizations Your local library and senior center are both great resources you can tap into. Again, you start by explaining your needs and hopefully you will receive back one or more leads you can follow up with. Family and friends If you have grandchildren, ask for their help the next time they visit. Children today are raised on the latest technology and within minutes they'll have your cell phone ringing your favorite tune, your instant messenger loaded with all your contacts, and your web cam and speakers configured properly. Your children probably have the skills to do all this as well. ( 4 )Independence Day for the Elderly One of the biggest issues Baby boomers face as they grow older is what's going to happen as they slowly but surely get to the stage where they need help with day-to-day living. With the costs of nursing homes expected to continually increase in order to meet the demands of this large segment of the population, many seniors will need alternatives. Fortunately, they have several. How in-home help is different In home help is one such option. With this type of arrangement, you're able to continue living in your own home and the help that you need comes to you. With more and more companies specializing in home care, it's much easier than it was to find a home companion capable of meeting your exact needs. For example, if you need around-the-clock in home care, that's available. If right now all you need is a hand with household chores and errands, it's easy to find a home companion who can assist you a few days every week. If you cannot prepare your own meals, get in and out of chairs, dress or bathe, or handle other personal matters without assistance, you can arrange to have a home companion stay with you during the daytime but not overnight. Changes as your needs change In addition to providing you with one-on-one assistance, in home help offers another advantage, that of flexibility. So as your needs change, it's easy to vary the amount and type of in home help you're provided. Even if your health declines, in home help allows you to comfortably live out the rest of your life right in your own home, if that's what you choose. With a home companion assisting you as needed, you'll be relieved from doing those time-consuming daily tasks that need to get done and you'll have more time available to use as you choose. Unlike an assisted living facility where you're limited to participating only in scheduled activities, with in home help, you're free to set your own schedule. You won't be limited to grocery shopping once a week on Tuesday mornings. If it's Friday and you're in the mood for a treat, you can have your home companion run to the grocery store to get you what you want. A trivial example perhaps, but it's that type of freedom that's fueling the growing trend towards in home care. With in home help, you choose the activities in which you want to participate. With so much going on at senior centers, wellness centers, and right in your own community, your days can be as busy or as carefree as you choose. With someone helping you around your home, you'll have more time to volunteer, visit with friends and family, see a movie, work out, sunbathe, shop, whatever. Unlike assisted living with prearranged meals and eating times, you can eat what you want, when you want. If the freedom to continue living the life you want appeals to you, then take time to find out why so many seniors and their families are choosing in home help to help meet their elderly care needs!

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To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community Newspaper, 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!

YOU CAN HELP SO MANY! By donating Used Computers and Science Equipment, (microscopes, burners, etc.) Needed for Students in Africa! Your donation is tax deductible and will benefit some of Africa's Most Needy! Call Tom Daley, 203-235-7863 tomdaley777@yahoo.com. Non-Profit - Global Harvest Missions, Inc. Tax id # 85-8013446916C-3

Red Cross Blood Drive on Wednesday, August 27th from 1 to 6:30

IT TAKES A LOT OF FRIENDS TO MOVE A BOOKSTORE By Phyllis S. Donovan Thanks to a cadre of loyal volunteers, the Friends of the Library Bookstore reopened in our new location at 35 West Main Street in downtown Meriden on July 14. The move was completed in seven weeks of intensive labor by a handful of Friends to whom I, as store manager, will be eternally grateful…especially to my co-chair and chief organizer, June Hadley, and to Gil Alwang and Joe Giannetti who laid out the floor plan for the new space, moved all our bookcases and set them up and bolted them down in the new place. Our old bookstore had operated successfully on the corner of Colony and West Main in downtown Meriden for six years. We all loved our spacious store, café and gift shop but when the rent got so high we weren't realizing enough profit to give back to the library (our primary mission), we had to look for a new home. Our store relocation committee considered several options before finally choosing a recently vacated space, owned by Ross Gulino, at 35 West Main Street, barely half a block away. I fell in love with the space at first sight. Although a bit smaller in square feet, I could see us settling in quite comfortably there. Once decided, we had to deal with the overwhelming logistics of selling off excess inventory, packing up at least 10,000 books, tearing down all the shelves and relocating everything up the street and into the new place…All of this depended on the willingness and hard work of a small but energetic group of volunteers, including the people who had been manning the store in shifts for all those years. We started with three giant Saturday book sales in May, offering a whole grocery bagful of books for just $3. You'd be surprised at how many books a careful packer can squeeze into one of those small bags, often from 12 hard covers to over 20 paperbacks. A whole summer of reading for just three bucks, you can't beat it. The sales helped decimate our shelf stock but once we started packing up what was left, we still had to go out and scrounge boxes from area grocery and package stores to pack them in. Have you ever tried moving boxes of books? They weigh a ton. I kept telling our people to be careful of their backs. Even with the use of two-wheel dollies, the job is daunting. The actual moving of the bookshelves and boxes of books took up the better part of the next two weekends using members' SUVs and trucks supplied by Gerry Dion and. June Hadley's son-in-law, Glenn Flanagan. Meanwhile June, her daughter, Beth Flanagan, and grandkids, Christine and Nick, gathered up everything else that was movable - from décor to office supplies -- to store in June's garage while we got the store settled. Once the bookcases were relocated, they had to be wrestled into place and bolted down, and wall shelves had to be reassembled and put up. This, while working around a mountain of boxes containing the books themselves. Gerry Dion and Al Mueller helped Gil and Joe in this phase of the move. After the shelves were in place, we called in the sorters and shelvers to find room for all those books on one-third less shelf space. Since we were weeding and winnowing the collection to keep only the very best of the books, this required a lot of book knowledge. Where else to turn than once again to our former store staff. They responded selflessly. Some of them, like Linda Hamner, Marlene Bevacque, Barbara Cohen, our internet sales guru Jackie LaRochelle, and of course, chief organizer and volunteer coordinator June Hadley, showed up nearly every day for four weeks. It was as if we all had full time jobs! Many others came to help when they could: early on, Beryl Letourneau and Amber Pinkerton, Kathy Berube, Dot Ritchie, Bea O'Brien and Winnie Leary, later Helen Lang and her son John (a godsend when it came to moving heavy boxes and shelves), Joan Dion, Jean and Tom Ryan, John Kenny, Mario Cavallo and Frank Ridley. While their husbands were busy relocating the shelves and bookcases, Ginger Alwang and Ann Giannetti also pitched in on the project. Even the Giannetti's Springer spaniel, Candy, came in for several days to keep an eye on things and offer moral support while snoozing among the boxes. Soon we had the project organized and operating in a very orderly fashion. Wherever floor space allowed, we tried to keep the shelf layout as close as possible to the old store to avoid confusion. All the boxes had been labeled as to contents (think "kitchen," "bathroom," "bedroom" and substitute "fiction," "mystery," "cookbooks," "biography.") Each volunteer chose a certain category of books to be their responsibility and worked to fill the shelves in that area with the best books available. Duplicates and older book still in good condition were set aside to be offered on bargain tables out front (like the library's 10-cent cart) and, if unsold, taken eventually to storage to await the Kiwanis next effort to relocate them to areas where good books are needed. (Not long ago, headed by Ed Murphy, they took two huge truckloads of our donated books to the Gulf States) Now, with floods, fires and tornados plaguing the mid- and western US, I'm sure all of those extra books will be put to good use. As we settled in, we knew some of the furnishings and café equipment would have to go, especially since we will not

Volunteers Needed

HW 2000+ is exploring the possibility of "A Day of Health" to offer medical services to area residents in financial need. If you are willing to help organize or participate in this event, please contact the HW 2000+ Steering Committee Chair, Ginny Stewart at the WLFD VNA, 269-1475 or the Wlfd Health Dept at 294-2065 or wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net.

have a café in the new store. (We'll soon be inviting folks to bring in their coffee from Café Dolce next door and browse our collection.) Profits made from selling our excess furnishings and equipment have been added to funds made available to the library for special events such as the children's summer reading program. After the books were all shelved, June brought back the nicely refreshed greenery and decorations to soften the look of the store and on Monday, July 14, we once again opened our doors to the public. It had taken seven weeks of intensive labor by a small group of dedicated volunteers who all agree that every minute of our labor was well worth it. Come in and see us at 35 West Main Street. We're open from 9 to 5 Mondays through Thursday, 9 to 8 on Fridays and 10 to 2 on Saturdays. Our gently used books are available at very friendly prices…perfect for vacation and beach reading. Even though we opened as soon as possible so eager patrons could come in and buy books, we are planning our official Grand Opening and ribbon cutting for September 12. That's when we'll all be able to relax and celebrate our enormous job well done.

Let's Start Walking Meriden Movers program to start August 18 The Meriden Health Department will be starting the late summer/fall session of the Meriden Movers Community Walking Program on August 18, 2008. Those who live and/or work in Meriden are encouraged to enroll in the program for better health. Program participants will receive a pedometer and walking log to track their steps. It is recommended that we walk 10,000 steps a day for better health. Wearing a pedometer - and logging steps - has been proven to help people stick with a walking program. Wearing a pedometer on a daily basis can also be an eye opener to see how much (or, how little) we move every day. Walking "buddies" are also highly encouraged. Starting August 19, Meriden Movers will hold group walks on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, beginning at 5:30pm, at the Quinnipiac River Linear walking trail, located on the corner of Route 70 and Oregon Road in South Meriden. Residents are welcome to join the group at any time. Pedometers will be ready for pick-up at the Health Department (165 Miller Street) the week of August 11, and will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis. Registration forms and information on the program can be found on the Meriden Health Department website, www.meridenhealth.com, or by calling Lea Crown, Health Educator, at 630-4238. Remember, walk for health every step counts!

MERIDEN BOOKMOBILE SCHEDULE The Bookmobile, or Library on Wheels, will be visiting the following facilities in August: Friday, August 1 - Stork Club 9:30 - 10:30 AM; Miller Memorial 10:45 - 11:30 AM; Tuesday, August 5 - Catholic Charities 9:00 - 10:00 AM; Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:15 11:15 AM; Wednesday, August 6 - Easter Seals (Broad St.) 9:00 - 10:15 AM; Bradley Home 10:15 - 11:00 AM; Thursday, August 7 - Connecticut Baptist Home (box) - 3:00 - 3:30 PM; Monday, August 11 - Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 - 10:00 AM; Women and Families Center 10:15 - 11:30 AM; Village at Kensington Place 1:30 - 2:00 PM; Thursday, August 14 - Kindercare 9:30 - 10:15 AM; The Right Place 10:30 - 11:00 AM; Friday, August 15 - Stork Club 9:30 - 10:30 AM; Miller Memorial 10:45 - 11:30 AM; Home deliveries 2:30 -3:00 PM; Thursday, August 28 - Kindercare 9:30 - 10:15 AM; The Right Place 10:30 - 11:00 AM.

Page 19 August 2008

What's happening in Downtown Meriden? Actually, there's been a lot of activity - new faces to recognize, new feet walking the street, new places to go where you can eat lunch or dinner, or where you can buy a used book to read at Friends of the Library Bookstore. You can browse through an art gallery at the Arts & Crafts Association on Colony Street or you can take your favorite picture to the Sandman Gallery & Frame Shoppe and have it framed. You can even practice your drums and electric guitar at the loudest decibels possible and no one will complain if you go to Studio's at 55. Next to Studio's is Butler Paint & Decorating where you can buy your paint, wallpaper or stain and work on a home improvement project. You can have your hair cut or styled or you can have your sore back diagnosed and treated. You can gossip over a good cup of cappuccino or espresso. Need a special gift for a special person? There's Rivera's Jewelry Store with lots of choices. Or, you can work out or play a game of racquet ball at the YMCA. Don't forget there's always something going on at the Senior Citizens Center. And if you want to get involved with the downtown business owners and merchants, working together with them to build a better downtown, you can always join them at their monthly meetings held on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:00. That's a small sample of what's available now. But what does the future hold? We know an upscale restaurant, nightclub and events center with ballroom dancing is on the horizon. This will offer a refreshing night out in downtown Meriden. There are two buildings that are on the verge of demolition or major repairs and we will see the results of these two projects before the end of the summer. This will make a huge difference in our surroundings. There are several storefronts available for lease. Opportunities abound for a savvy entrepreneur. The prominent 15,000 square foot office building on the corner of West Main and Hanover Street is available for sale. Maybe we will get an ice cream shop, an antique store, a hat boutique, or a pharmacy. Maybe it will house a doctor, a lawyer, a butcher or a baker. We can only wait for more exciting activities and people to join us in making our downtown even more vibrant. Surely, they will come. Are you wondering what's happening at the former HUB site now that the building is down? The 15 acre site is the focus of a multi-million dollar flood control and redevelopment effort being led by the City. The development of transit oriented opportunities will provide linkages to local bus, taxi, corporate van services, and the proposed New Haven to Springfield Amtrak service will complete the intermodal transportation center now in the talking stages. Stay positive, great things are happening in downtown Meriden. Trudy Magnolia, Economic Development Office

Davy's Goods: Open 7 days a week. When I was seven years old, our family moved into a house that at one time had been a coal miner's log cabin. Coal mines abounded in and around the area where our house was located. The rustic abode had been refurbished over the past years, but it still held the echoes of the long-ago craftsman's labor. It was an impressive house to behold, but had none of the modern-day utilities. At night we had to use kerosene lamps to help prevent us from bumping into what scanty furnishings we owned. We had to keep our meager foodstuffs tucked away in a springhouse to keep the things from spoiling. Our drinking water came from the cool spring that coursed its way through that old springhouse. I can still taste that pure mountain water, cold on my lips, even today. There was a general store about three-quarters of mile down the road from our house. My mother would take the four of us (my two sisters, my brother and me) along with her for a walk down that old dusty road to pick up a few things at Davy's. One Sunday morning my dad said to me, "Take this can down to Davy's, and have him fill it with kerosene." He handed me a shiny new quarter, and reminded me that the can would hold a gallon of kerosene. "That'll be 15 cents…you can buy something for yourself with the 10 cents left over." I took the can, and with thoughts of that candy-counter dancing through my head, I jauntily rambled down the dirt road that led straight to Davy's. It took about 20 minutes to traverse that well-worn coal miner's trail. I stood there waiting for the kind old gentleman to fill that can, and when he had finished, he turned to me and asked if I wanted anything else. My wistful eyes confessed my desire of what peeked out through the sparkling glass case of penny candy. "Yes sir. My dad said I can spend the 10 cents change on myself." Bouncing over to where my heart's longing resided, I took a deep breath, and without hesitating stated, "I want two of those root beer barrels, two sticks of Blackjack gum, one piece of licorice…let's see now…that's…hmmm, two for a penny…err…How much do I have left, Davy?" Yeah, that was one of many happy Sundays I've relished over the years. I, and I'm sure there are a lot of folks besides me, wish it were still possible to walk into a little corner store like Davy's, choose from a myriad of tantalizing sweets, and then with a firm grip wrapped around the paper bag filled with those treasures…put a dime on the counter, and drift out of the store on a magic carpet.

Artistic Autumn!

Now A ccepting R egistrations f or Autumn C lasses, K inderart & Y oung Artist P rograms & A dult!

Try our Adult Art Classes at Easel Works & soothe the stress away. You’ll love it.

EASEL WORKS

Creative Art Studio & Gallery

294-1548 2 Quinnipiac Street, Wallingford

YES YOU CAN!!!

"OVERDRIVE" DOWNLOADABLE BOOKS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Are you looking for something to bring along on your Monday morning commute or day at the beach but can't get to the library? Don't despair "Overdrive" has arrived! "Overdrive" allows a patron with a Meriden Library card access to books that can be downloaded to their home computer and then transferred to an MP3 player or burned to a compact disc 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just log onto the Meriden Public Library's site at www.meridenlibrary.org and follow the instructions to browse and download books. The loan period is two weeks, after which the downloaded book file will disappear from the patron's computer. Give it a try and you'll never be without access to a good book. For more information, contact the Meriden Public Library at (203) 238-2346.

SILVER CITY COIN & STAMPS COLLECTIBLES

STAMPS • COVERS • COINS • TOKENS PAPER MONEY • POSTCARDS • HOBBY SUPPLIES A GREAT GIFT SELECTION FOR THE SUMMER!

41 COLONY STREET, MERIDEN, CT 06451

(203) 235-7634 J o h n A LW AY S O F F E R S t h e b e s t i n S e r v i c e & I S A LW AY S H o n e s t !

We have never doubted him and neither will you!

* 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 20 August 2008

"Sheltering an Animal's Perspective"

TRIPS for our PRESTIGE members:

HOOP HOUSE BASKETBALL CAMP Ages 7 - 15 SESSION 2: AUGUST 4th - AUGUST 8th SESSION 3 (GIRLS ONLY): AUGUST 11th - AUGUST 15th 8:30am - 3:30pm Recreation Department Gym Staff: Mike Papale & Joe Gaetano Fee: $185 (Each additional session $165/2 or more family members $165) SKYHAWKS SPORTS CAMPS Ages 6 - 12 GOLF - AUGUST 4th - AUGUST 8th 9am - 12pm Pragemann Park Fee: $115 MULTI - SPORT - AUGUST 11th - 15th 9am - 12pm Pragemann Park Fee: $139

"R" Band Concert Series

The R Band under the direction of Patricia Lignelli and sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department and the Wallingford Senior Center will present 6 performances in 2008. Wednesday August 6th Rotary Chicken BBQ Gaylord 4:30-6:00

Twilight Tunes Wednesday evenings on the Wallingford Parade Grounds Sponsored by Wallingford Parks & Recreation and Stop and Shop Supermarkets 7:00-8:30:p.m Wednesday August 6th

"The Musical Mystery Tour” - With authentic instrumentation, The M.M.T. brings the greatest Beatles music to life. In order to recreate the original Beatles sound, they use the same style guitars and amplification used in the 1960’s. Pauls signature Hofner violin bass, George’s Gretch Country Gentleman, John’s custom black and white Rickenbacker guitar and Ringo’s Ludwig drum kit. The group delivers an experience that sounds amazing!

Wednesday August 13th

“The All Star Disco Review” - The group combines great dance music from the disco/funk era with a fun, interactive stage show that appeals to all age groups. The group will perform top hits from artists such as K.C. and the Sunshine Band, Donna Summer, Earth Wind and Fire, The Commodores and more.

Wednesday August 20th

"Airborne Jazz Band" - With its 5th and most current release out "Turbulence" produced by the Airborne Jazz Band will roar like the wind and sea on a force of high energy contemporary jazz that is intense and complex. Hot rhythms softly cruise on a cool sea of music and soulful voices

Kids Off Road Triathlon AGES 7-14 This fun-filled day includes swimming, biking and running for kids ranging from ages 7-14.Each participant will receive a Tshirt as a souvenir and entered in a free raffle to win prizes. There will be two distances for the event. Ages 7-10 participate in a 50 meter swim in the pool, 1.2 mile mountain bike and 0.5 run on dirt trails and grass. Ages 11-14 compete in distances of 100 meter swim, 2.2 mile bike, and 0.75 mile run. All participants will be required to ride fat tire bikes (tires should be at least 1.25 inches wide and have knobs to grip loose gravel) and wear a bicycle helmet. The course will be monitored and closed off to traffic. All finishers will receive a medal for their efforts. Finishing places will not be awarded. Kids will need to bring a swimsuit, towel, goggles (suggested), bike helmetMandatory for Participation, a bike and running shoes. Participants will be separated in different heats by age: 7-8, 910, 11-12, 13-14. Sunday, September 7th 9:00am Location: Choate Rosemary Hall Fee: $25 Per participant ***Sign up for the Mini-Triathlon course held in July and August taught by Kelli Montgomery, certified USA Triathlon Coach and Elite Triathlete.

6 Fairfield Boulevard, Wallingford - 203.294.2120

MidState’s Pink Partini Fashion Show

Call 203-694-8742 for reservations Tuesday, October 28, 2008 from 6:00 - 9:00pm Fashion Show in support of MidState Medical Center's Cancer Center. Fashions by The Dressing Room in Wallingford, Kimberley Boutique in West Hartford and additional stores to be announced; hair by Hilites of Southington and makeup by Motives. Registration Required Reservations can be made for tables of 10 $50 per person Aqua Turf, Plantsville Cocktails and hors d' oeuvres with a signature martini, Dream Girl

The Complete Optical Experience!

Special Events!

It seems to me that all the talk about dangerous dog breeds should not be about "bad" breeds, but about irresponsible people. Just as with raising children, there is both "nature" and "nurture" to consider. Through the centuries, some dogs were bred as war dogs, others for the hunting of dangerous game, and still others for fights against a variety of animals, including other dogs, bears, lions, rats, badgers, monkeys, opossums, pigs, horses, donkeys, and even man. Although there may be dog breeds known for displaying dominance aggression, canine behaviorists agree that this type of aggression is potentially found in all breeds. Dog aggression is more the result of a human behavior problem than a canine one. Dangerous behavior in dogs often comes from the ignorance of breeders and owners. Breeders may deliberately or unknowingly breed unsound and unstable temperament, thus perpetuating what should have disappeared from the gene pool. Furthermore, fear and anxiety - not dominance - are the greatest causes of dog aggression directed at other dogs and people. To experience rare problem behavior, the breeding, raising, living and training conditions of the breeder and owner must be consonant with knowledge of canines as a species (for instance, there are over 50 possible medical reasons for canine aggression), with the dog breed (the breed standard usually spells out whether dog aggression is common in the breed and to what degree it is allowed), and the individual dog, in particular. This is true for all dog breeds. When owners are not aware of the above points, statistics show that the vast majority (77%) of biting dogs belong to the victim's family or friends. With all the concern about which breed is the most dangerous, it has to be noted that any dog that is treated harshly or trained to attack, may bite a person. Any dog can be made into a dangerous dog. It is the owner or handler who is most responsible for making a dog into something dangerous. Any dog may be a loving companion although its breed may be considered potentially dangerous. As with any relationship, the love and respect of a dog must be won. Ultimately, one cannot look at an individual dog, identify its breed, and then state whether it is going to attack. For from 1979 to 1998, at least 25 breeds of dogs have been involved in bite related deaths. Consider these other statistics - all caused by people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that a chained dog is 2.8 times more likely to bite than an unchained dog. Canines not spayed or neutered are three times more likely to bite than sterilized ones (70% of all dog bites involve un-neutered males). Of the 27 people who died as a result of dog bite attacks in 1997 and 1998, 67% involved unrestrained dogs on the owner's property. Another 19% involved unrestrained dogs off the owner's property. In other words, dogs that are licensed with an identifiable owner are implicated in the vast majority of dog bites, as compared with stray dogs. Furthermore, the greater number of children and dogs in a household, the higher likelihood of bites occurring. A 2001 New York Times article reported that 40% of owners acquired the dog primarily for protection. As the saying goes, "Be careful what you wish for." Obedience training school is one way of effectively preventing many dog bites. Owners should also find time for dayto-day instruction between themselves and their dogs. Busy lifestyles are a major reason for the rise of aggression related attacks. As Americans work more hours, dog caring responsibilities slip, resulting in mild or stronger neglect. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) informs, "There is no evidence that breedspecific laws" (those that either regulate or ban a certain breed of dog) "which are costly and difficult to enforce - make communities safer for families or for the companion animals that are part of so many households." What the ASPCA recommends instead is: 1) enhanced enforcement of dog license laws and leash/dog-at-large laws; 2) dangerous dog laws that are breed-neutral and focus on the behavior of the individual dog; 3) laws that hold dog owners financially accountable for failure to adhere to animal control laws; 4) laws that prohibit chaining or tethering; and 5) laws that mandate the sterilization of shelter animals. Note that no dog breed was named in this column. That's because the message is about irresponsible people, not 'bad" breeds. There is no such thing as a bad breed. 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.

Colony Opticians

For reservations and information about these day trips, please call the Prestige Club at 203-694-8733 or email prestige@midstatemedical.org Saratoga Raceway Saratoga Springs, NY Saturday, August 23, 2008 Continental breakfast, snacks, beverages, wine coolers will be served and on the way home we'll make a quick stop for dinner. You will arrive at the race track prior to post time with ample time to find your seat and place your bets! $77 per person

by Gregory M. Simpson

You need to protect your eyes more than ever. We offer a wide variety of sunglasses and we are specialists for prescription sunglasses. Let us help you! Better Vision is within your sight! COLONY O PTICIANS & 60 Church St. (Rt. 68) Wallingford 203-265-2205

O ptometrists

Eye exams by Independent Doctor of Optometry

Page 21 August 2008

EarthTalk Dear EarthTalk: How is it that hydrogen can replace oil to run our cars? There seems to be a lot of controversy over whether hydrogen can really be generated and stored in such a way to be practical? -- Stephane Kuziora, Thunder Bay, ON The jury is still out on whether hydrogen will ultimately be our environmental savior, replacing the fossil fuels responsible for global warming and various nagging forms of pollution. Two main hurdles stand in the way of mass production and widespread consumer adoption of hydrogen "fuel cell" vehicles: the still high cost of producing fuel cells, and the lack of a hydrogen refueling network. Reining in manufacturing costs of fuel cell vehicles is the first major issue the automakers are addressing. While several have fuel cell prototype vehicles on the road-Toyota and Honda are even leasing them to the public in Japan and California-they are spending upwards of $1 million to produce each one due to the advanced technology involved and low production runs. Toyota hopes to reduce its costs per fuel cell vehicle to around $50,000 by 2015, which would make such cars economically viable in the marketplace. On this side of the Pacific, General Motors plans to sell hydrogen-powered vehicles in the U.S. by 2010. Another problem is the lack of hydrogen refueling stations. Major oil companies have been loathe to set up hydrogen tanks at existing gas stations for many reasons ranging from safety to cost to lack of demand. But obviously the oil companies are also trying to keep customers interested in their highly profitable bread-and-butter, gasoline. A more likely scenario is what is emerging in California, where some 38 independent hydrogen fuel stations are located around the state as part of a network created by the non-profit California Fuel Cell Partnership, a consortium of automakers, state and federal agencies and other parties interested in furthering hydrogen fuel cell technologies. The benefits of ditching fossil fuels for hydrogen are many, or course. Burning fossil fuels like coal, natural gas and oil to heat and cool our buildings and run our vehicles takes a heavy toll on the environment, contributing significantly to both local problems like elevated particulate levels and global ones like a warming climate. The only by-product of running a hydrogen-powered fuel cell is oxygen and a trickle of water, neither of which will cause any harm to human health or the environment. But right now 95 percent of the hydrogen available in the U.S. is either extracted from fossil fuels or made using electrolytic processes powered by fossil fuels, thus negating any real emissions savings or reduction in fossil fuel usage. Only if renewable energy sources-solar, wind and others-can be harnessed to provide the energy to process hydrogen fuel can the dream of a truly clean hydrogen fuel be realized. Stanford University researchers in 2005 assessed the environmental effects of three different hydrogen sources: coal, natural gas, and water electrolysis powered by wind. They concluded that we'd lower greenhouse gas emissions more by driving gasoline/electric hybrid cars than by driving fuel cell cars run on hydrogen from coal. Hydrogen made using natural gas would fare a little bit better in terms of pollution output, while making it from wind power would a slamdunk for the environment.

2008 Gardener's Market The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2008 Gardener's Market Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 12th to Sept 13th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, unique crafts, baked items and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. Check the website at www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for detailed information. Special vendors for Sewn Crafts: Amber Billings with tote bags; Marge Dubue with Quilts and Blankets; Nancy Eddy of Catnip Toys; Mollie Elmer of 2 Friends Quilting with small quilts, runners, pillow cases; Kristin Giordano of K A Knits with crocheted items; Nancy Paull with small quilts and aprons. Special Paper Crafts: Doll Barnes with Paper Sculpture greeting cards; Linda Houle with greeting/note cards; Frank Totz of Paper Tole Creations with 3-D Artwork. Jewelry Vendors: Christina Bracale of Little Trend Setters with handmade jewelry for children; Gerarda McIntyre of Sparkles by Sam with Swarovski crystal jewelry; Amanda Proscino of Accessories Aesthetic with jewelry kits; Rudy Raccio with jewelry; Kathryn Robinson of Accessorize with guitar pic jewelry, boxes and beaded flowers. Artistic Craft Vendors: Lynn Bassett of A Desire to Inspire with hand painted crafts: wood, slate, terra cotta; Rosemarie Bonito of Garden Emporium with garden theme gifts; Diane and Larry Bradley of The Homemaker with crafts and florals; Christina Carta of Tiny Blooms with girls hair accessories; Beverly Keener with mini pottery w/dried arrangements; Francine LaFontaine with matted prints & cards; Rose & Tom Marano of Blossom Blessings with Floral designs, wreaths and swags; Ailyn UrzuaGeghan of Ecolife with nutrition products: home and skin care.

"Clean Sweep Sale" Come join the Arts and Crafts Association/Gallery 53 for a dual event - a "Clean Sweep Sale" on Friday, August 1 thru Sunday, 3rd and "sweep-up" some great bargains on original paintings, craft items, pottery, jewelry, prints, and more, at very reasonable prices. On Sunday Aug. 3rd join us for SUNDAY IN THE CITY - an informal gathering - for free snacks and conversation from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm. The Arts and Crafts Association of Meriden/Gallery 53 has been supporting artists and artisans and serving the community for over 100 years and needs your help to raise funds to continue the many educational programs they sponsor. The Gallery will be open for this special event from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. We are also in need of donations and will be receiving on July 22 - 30th from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. Remember, all donations are tax deductible! The Gallery is easy to reach from I-91 and I-84. There is free and ample parking space available across the street. Visit our website: www.gallery53.org or call (203) 235-5347 for directions.

MidState Cancer Survivors' Day Sunday, September 14, 2008 2:00 - 4:00pm Hubbard Park, Meriden Please join us for refreshments, children's activities, speakers, entertainment, games, drawings and fun! Register by calling The Cancer Center at (203) 694-8353.

THE PEOPLES PRESS will be closed for Summer Holiday from August 1st - August 13th. We will return any phone calls or emails on August 14th. Have a great month.

MERIDENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FIRST A N D O N LY PERSONAL TRAINING STUDIO

Call to setup a free orientation and register to win a FREE $35 Gas Card. Offer expires August 15th Drawing to be held August 15th at 3pm.

Body Temple Fitness is not a gym. We are dedicated, certified trainers who work with clients of all ages on a personal level to encourage change in eating habits and physical fitness in a professional environment without distractions. One-on-one training is by appointment only. $50 GAS CARD for the first ten people who sign up for a minumum of 8-session training package with this ad.

Phone 203.237.4500 Cell 203.213.6369 Fax 203.237.4500 841 West Main Street in Meriden * www.BTFPT.com

Page 22 August 2008

Free and EASY ENERGY-SAVING HABITS Don't forget the basics. This simple stuff will save energy -- and money -- right now. 1. Unplug o Unplug seldom-used appliances, like an extra refrigerator in the basement or garage that contains just a few items. You may save around $10 every month on your utility bill. o Unplug your chargers when you're not charging. Every house is full of little plastic power supplies to charge cell phones, PDA's, digital cameras, cordless tools and other personal gadgets. Keep them unplugged until you need them. o Use power strips to switch off televisions, home theater equipment, and stereos when you're not using them. Even when you think these products are off, together, their "standby" consumption can be equivalent to that of a 75 or 100 watt light bulb running continuously. 2. Set Computers to Sleep and Hibernate o Enable the "sleep mode" feature on your computer, allowing it to use less power during periods of inactivity. In Windows, the power management settings are found on your control panel. Mac users, look for energy saving settings under system preferences in the apple menu. o Configure your computer to "hibernate" automatically after 30 minutes or so of inactivity. The "hibernate mode" turns the computer off in a way that doesn't require you to reload everything when you switch it back on. Allowing your computer to hibernate saves energy and is more time-efficient than shutting down and restarting your computer from scratch. When you're done for the day, shut down. 3. Take Control of Temperature o Set your thermostat in winter to 68 degrees or less during the daytime, and 55 degrees before going to sleep (or when you're away for the day). During the summer, set thermostats to 78 degrees or more. (Click here for a more detailed summer energy-saving tip.) o Use sunlight wisely. During the heating season, leave shades and blinds open on sunny days, but close them at night to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows. Close shades and blinds during the summer or when the air conditioner is in use or will be in use later in the day. o Set the thermostat on your water heater between 120 and 130 degrees. Lower temperatures can save more energy, but you might run out of hot water or end up using extra electricity to boost the hot water temperature in your dishwasher. 4. Use Appliances Efficiently o Set your refrigerator temperature at 38 to 42 degrees Fahrenheit; your freezer should be set between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Use the power-save switch if your fridge has one, and make sure the door seals tightly. You can check this by making sure that a dollar bill closed in between the door gaskets is difficult to pull out. If it slides easily between the gaskets, replace them. o Don't preheat or "peek" inside the oven more than necessary. Check the seal on the oven door, and use a microwave oven for cooking or reheating small items. o Wash only full loads in your dishwasher, using short cycles for all but the dirtiest dishes. This saves water and the energy used to pump and heat it. Air-drying, if you have the time, can also reduce energy use. o In your clothes washer, set the appropriate water level for the size of the load; wash in cold water when practical, and always rinse in cold. o Clean the lint filter in the dryer after each use. Dry heavy and light fabrics separately and don't add wet items to a load that's already partly dry. If available, use the moisture sensor setting. (A clothesline is the most energy-efficient clothes dryer of all!) 5. Turn Out the Lights o Don't forget to flick the switch when you leave a room. o Remember this at the office, too. Turn out or dim the lights in unused conference rooms, and when you step out for lunch. Work by daylight when possible. A typical commercial building uses more energy for lighting than anything else. SIMPLE HOUSEHOLD TOOLS AND GADGETS THAT WILL SAVE YOU MONEY BY SPENDING VERY LITTLE MONEY! These easy at-home energy savers will instantly improve your home's energy-efficiency, and save money on your utility bill. A quick trip to the home improvement or hardware store will set you on your way. Weatherizers The gaps around the windows and doors in an average American house are the equivalent of a 3 foot by 3 foot hole in the wall! Caulk and weather-strip to seal off these air leaks. " Stop air from escaping under doors with "sweeps" or "shoes" attached to the bottom. " Use window putty to seal gaps around loose window panes. " Cover bare floors with padded rugs for added insulation. " Look for other air leaks you can seal, such as those around plumbing penetrations or ceiling-mounted lighting fixtures. Better yet, call an energy rater who can test your house for hidden leaks with a "blower door." 1. Compact fluorescent bulbs Lighting accounts for about 15 percent of household energy use. If you swap the five standard light bulbs you use most for energy-saving compact fluorescents, you can save roughly $60 each year on electricity. Make sure you use EnergyStar compact fluorescents, which are tested for quality and longevity. 2. Water Heater Blankets Bundle up your water heater, especially if it's located in an unheated part of the house. 3. Fresh Filters Keep your air-conditioning and heating systems properly maintained by changing air filters and keeping air conditioner coils clean. 4. Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucet Aerators Replacing old models with new low-flow designs prevents the energy used to heat water from going down the drain.

For Special Days, Birthdays and Holidays

Free Photo Form It’s Free. It always has been!

Celebrations of Life and Home Welcome Dominic Joseph Civitelli Born 8/20/04 7lbs. 19.5” Jeanine & George Grandparents: George & Phyllis Civitelli and Fred & Christina Pucci

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

Deadline for our September issue is August 28th.

Hope is that thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops... at all. ~Emily Dickinson Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. ~Anne Lamott Experience the Wonders of India Fly into Delhi, from there to Agra and the Taj Mahal, to see this palace of beauty at sunrise, and in moonlight. (the colors change at different hours of the day and different seasons). Travel by train to Ranthambore National Park, a wildlife sanctuary where tigers are the park’s pride. NOVEMBER 6–19, 2008 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com

What you need to know...

Guerra Realtors has been chosen to be a member of Trademark Properties Referral Program for Connecticut. Trademark Properties, located in South Carolina, has two international Television Shows. The positive response Trademark Properties received from sellers and buyers Nationally only adds re-assurance to Guerra Realtors Relocation Department when a seller and buyer relocate outside the state of Connecticut. John Guerra, CEO of Guerra Realtors is honored to be chosen by Trademark Properties. Guerra Quotes "Our Relocation Department at Guerra Realtors takes our clients very seriously when they need to relocate for whatever reason. Maggie Griffin, the Director of our I.T./Web Marketing and Relocation Department, is confident working with Trademark Properties Referral Program to assist in finding our clients the perfect match in a Real Estate Professional outside the State of Connecticut." Guerra Realtors has expanded in growth in REALTORs, providing fast results using today's technology with traditional personalized service. Griffin adds "Our marketing on the intranet is widely spread for our clients along with paper advertising" Because Guerra Realtors cover towns in New Haven County, Central CT, Middlesex County, Hartford County, Litchfield County and Connecticut's shoreline, The REALTORs affiliated with Guerra Realtors have more advance tools when working with sellers and buyers in Connecticut. Guerra Realtors not only bring results to sellers and buyers, but educate them all in the process of their real estate transaction to enhance their knowledge of today's market. Not only does Guerra Realtors meet the sources online in various web sites, but the REALTOR's web sites, free to them, also bring education, experience, knowledge and information to Real Estate Consumers. The advance free training, education and Agent/Client exposure the REALTORs at Guerra Realtors is in fact a valuable asset to sellers and buyers because it proves that all clients that go through Guerra Realtors are working with familiar names and faces that have been seasoned in the Real Estate Industry for decades. Guerra Realtors Corporate office, located in East Haven, has a staff of Directors in Marketing, I.T., Web Services, Communications, Relocation and administration along with providing a variety of choices of others related to the home selling and buying process to refer our clients. Guerra Realtors holds true to their slogan "Ready To Make a Move", their guarantee, services, Communication and Marketing departments and our newest of affiliation, First American Home Buyer's Protection Home Warranty plans that cover more at an affordable cost in a seller and/or buyer chooses this option. John Guerra, CEO of Guerra Realtors emphasizes "Our Clients are Our Top Priority, we will go the extra measures to make their real estate goals happen". Guerra Realtors invite the public to use our 24/7 online web site as their source for all their real estate needs, answers to questions, advice and more. Visit www.GuerraRealtors.com and meet our agents, our growing company and services, our choice of Home Warranty Company and relationship with Trademark Properties Referral Program for relocation that is an enhancement to the clients who choose Guerra Realtors and our additional services all the more.

Page 23 August 2008

Wallingford Park and Recreation News and Events NFL Punt, Pass & Kick NFL Flag League, Wallingford Vikings Junior Football and the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department would like to invite all boys and girls ages 8-15 to come be part of the nationwide skills event sponsored by the National Football League. Winners from our local contest will advance to the sectional competition and then possibly to the state. This could just be the first step on the way to a team championship at a NFL game. There is absolutely no cost for this program. The 2007 competition, Wallingford was again represented at Foxboro Stadium. Three time representative Briana Mastel competed in the 14 15 year old division. Briana finished with a strong showing and Second in the North East Region. For more information, call Kenny Michaels, Program Specialist at 294-2120. When: Wednesday, August 20th 6:30 pm Location: West Side Field Fee: IT'S FREE **Participants must bring a copy of their birth certificate to registration. Competitors must also compete in comfortable sneakers. No cleats. Hip House Dance Series Once again the Hip House Dance Series is back for another year of fun and excitement. The Parks and Recreation Department would like to welcome back all of the returning 7th and 8th graders while also welcoming the new 6th graders. To ensure that you are able to attend all of the dances, you must purchase a photo ID pass. NEW FOR 2008-09…ALL PARTICIPANTS WHO HAVE A PASS FROM THE 2007-08 SEASON CAN HOLD ONTO THEIR PASSES. UPON REGISTERING FOR THIS COMING YEAR A STICKER WILL BE PLACED ON THE BACK OF THE EXISTING CARD. NO MORE PICTURES, NO MORE FILLING OUT AN ID CARD AGAIN. The dance pass allows you entry to 7 dances. No passes will be sold in the schools or on the day of the dance. Photo ID's will go on sale June 1st for $25. As of July 1st, all dance passes will be $40. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the discounted price. STUDENTS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE DANCE WITHOUT A 2008 - 09 HIP HOUSE DANCE PASS Back to School Bash - September 12 Halloween Havoc - October 24 Jingle Ball - December 12 Jump Off - January 23 Valentine's Day Vibe - February 20 Spring Fest - April 10 Last Blast - May 22 Family Day - Saturday September 13, 2008 This event is designed for you to spend the day with your family at Community Lake Park. Family Day is co-sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department, YMCA and the Wallingford Youth and Social Services Department. The day will be filled with canoe rides, walks down the Linear Trail, moonwalks, entertainment. Wallingford Family Day begins at 11:00a.m. and ends at 3:00p.m. For more information call 294-2120 or 294-2175 There is so much more that we offer. Stop by the Park & Recreation Building located on Fairfield Blvd. in Wallingford or call 294-2120.

Meriden ArtsTrust Just a quick note to allWe could all use some good news, well, this is certainly good news! The "Crescendo Committee to bring a symphony to Meriden", ("The Crescendo Committee" for short) is a group of musicians and non-musicians who have dedicated themselves to bringing a new symphony to Meriden. You are very much invited to join! Very exciting good news!!! The Crescendo Committee will host its first Benefit Concert and Reception with Christopher White and Friends, an evening of Organ and Piano performances (more people may sign on, too!) Saturday, August 16th from 7-9 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, at the corner of Hanover and Cook, 164 Hanover Street in Meriden. Tickets are available from this e-mail, (meridenartstrust@yahoo.com), Crescendo Committee members, posters will be going up soon. Tickets will be available at the door. The Crescendo Committee is open to musicians and non-musicians alike who wish to bring a new symphony to Meriden. Membership is free to all and you are all invited to join. Our first organizational meeting will be announced soon. You do not have to be at the meetings to join. The first meeting will be at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center. I'll keep you informed. The Crescendo Committee newsletter, "Quick Notes" may be found at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, and, I hope, on-line, on the Meriden Arts Council website, soon. For our local friends- there is a fine concert happening today at 2 at the Augusta - two brass quintets! I hope to see you there!

Americana-Folk and Folk Rock DJ's Wanted on WESU FM For Fall Radio Training WESU FM's Folk Music Department is looking for Community Volunteers who have an understanding of Americana-Folk and -Folk-Rock Music with or without Community Radio experience. Established in 1939, WESU is one of the oldest non-commercial radio stations in the United States. Now, in 2006, WESU broadcasts at the frequency of 88.1 megahertz from it's 1500-watt transmitter located atop the Wesleyan Science Tower. WESU offers an interesting mix of Public affairs and free-form music programming to discerning listeners at throughout the Connecticut River Valley and beyond. Volunteer Training is provided in the Fall of 2008 for those interested in learning about Community Radio. Must go through Community Radio Training ,Internships and Radio Community Service . For more information contact Ken Folk and Triple A MD at WESU FM 860-685-7703 and leave your name phone number and contact information. To listen to WESU FM locally go to WESU FM 88.1 and online at www.wesufm.org

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Meriden "Young at Heart" Group Welcomes New Participants Are you over 55 and looking for fun activities? If so, the Young at Heart Discussion Group welcomes you! The group meets on Tuesdays from 10:30 -11:30am in the mezzanine of the Meriden Senior Center, located at 22 West Main Street. Activities include lectures/discussions, field trips, luncheons, sing-a-longs, and more. Upcoming events include: August 5 - A discussion on West Nile Virus and Lyme disease, presented by Scott Bryden, Environmental Health Supervisor with the Meriden Health Department August 12 - Kathy Olson, aka "The Bee Lady", will discuss everything you need to know about honey bees. August 26 -The Meriden Social Security office will discuss "Summer with Social Security", specifically the new "Direct Express" debit card program and how to use the internet to access many social security services. No registration is required for lectures and discussions. You must register for field trips. For more information please contact Julie Johnson at 630-4244. We look forward to seeing you!

Adoption: How to get Started! Sponsored by: Child Adoption Resource Association A non-profit full service adoption agency Located in New London serving all of Connecticut Wednesday August 6, 20087:00 p.m. Free Informational Sessions for People Interested in Finding Out more about Adoption held at three Connecticut locations: Borders Books and Music Seattle's Best Cafe 470 Lewis Ave .Meriden, CT 06451 Phone: 203-237-5510 A CARA worker will explain different types of adoption and offer a step-by-step outline to adopting a child. Project Connecticut's Child, a grant funded program seeking to find families to adopt children from CT state foster care at no or minimum cost, will be presented. Participants will leave with a folder of resources to help guide families, couples, or individuals wishing to adopt.

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Page 24 August 2008

Mayor's Corner - Wallingford As the summer quickly evolves, many recreational events are still scheduled to take place. August brings much excitement as Wallingford will host two major athletic tournaments. First is the 24th Annual TWIST Youth Soccer Tournament. This tournament begins August 16th and hosts many local teams as well as teams from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey. We will see talented soccer players demonstrate their outstanding skills as they play on Town fields as well as Choate fields Second is the 12th Annual Tri-Town Classic Adult Softball Tournament hosting the top men and women's softball teams from Wallingford, Meriden, and Southington. This tournament will be held on August 23rd at Westside Field. If you want to support a good cause and enjoy good food, be sure to attend the Rotary Chicken Barbecue on the Gaylord Hospital grounds on Wednesday, August 6th starting at 4:30 p.m. The Town's Rec Band will provide music. A reminder that Weber and Gannon Youth Basketball registration for Wallingford residents will be taking place July 28th through September 12th at the Parks and Recreation Department. This league has had 1100 participants in each of the past two years. The Fall 2008 Parks and Recreation Guide will be in your homes in mid August. You can look forward to many interesting, relaxing and fun offerings for the whole family. Enjoy the month of August! Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. Mayor

Call for Meriden Area Artists... The Main ARTery, Meriden's Main Street Celebrations of the arts sponsored by the Meriden Arts Council. Fine Art Show & Sale Thursday, October 2, 2008 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Meriden Courthouse Plaza. Along with a Wine Tasting hosted by Valencia Liquor and a Gourmet Chef Demonstration/Food Tasting sponsored by The Drust Family Shop-Rite. For a prospectus or more information, please contact Lynn Fisher at 203-235-6270 or info@meridenartscouncil.org. Open to all Meriden Fine Artists working in the mediums of Oils,Watercolors, Gouache, Egg Tempera, Pastels/Oil Pastels, Textile/Fabric, Photography, Sculpture, Graphics (charcoal, etching, woodcuts, silkscreen, intaglio, original illustration in traditional mediums such as ink or graphite, etc.).Work may be traditional or non-objective. Entries must be artist's own work. Those that say you can't take it with you never saw a car packed for a vacation trip. ~Author Unknown

MAYOR'S CORNER - Meriden Dear Friends Hi! I am Meriden's new mayor, Mike Rohde. The previous mayor, Mark Benigni has been writing this column for the last 5 years or more and I plan to continue to carry-on the tradition. I look forward to sharing my views of Meriden with all of the People's Press readers each month. I would like to start by telling you a few things about myself. My wife Nancy and I have lived in Meriden for over 30 years and raised our two children here. I have served on the Meriden City Council for 19 years. Most recently I was the council majority leader and chairman of the Public Works Parks and Recreation Committee. Meriden's Mayor is a part-time position so I have another job just like previous mayors. I am the Director of Development at Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut in New Haven Connecticut. I believe it is important to serve the community I live in. For many years I have been a member of the Meriden Kiwanis Club, Meriden Black Expo Committee, Dr. Martin Luther King/Albert Owens Scholarship Breakfast Committee, New Opportunities of Greater Meriden Advisory Council and a member of the Flood Control Implementation Agency. I thank former Mayor Benigni for his legacy of passion, integrity, honesty and zeal and setting the City of Meriden on a progressive course. I look forward to leading the city and continuing the good work that has begun. I truly believe that Meriden has a bright future ahead of us and I am confident that we have the vision and the will to make a better Meriden for all of us. We will be completing the next phase of the Quinnipiac River Gorge Trail and unveiling a new world class sports complex at Falcon Field in September. We will soon begin the process of renovating the city's two high schools. The old Meriden HUB site is poised for development, and the West Main Street new streetscape will soon be a reality, thanks to some federal funding. I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer. I look forward to keeping you updated on the positive happenings in Meriden. Sincerely, Mike Rohde - Mayor, City of Meriden

TRAIL OF TERROR UPDATE Well its time again for another Boo Crew Review from the Trail of Terror in Wallingford. It's been quite a while since I've had time to actually sit down and write something, so since we are approaching 80 days until we open I figured it was time. The Boo Crew is getting a late start this year so we hope everything goes as planned. 2007 was another successful season; we were able to give the Red Cross $100,000 for the second year in a row. The lines were quite long last year but we are trying to help by offering a timed speed-pass, available only online. I hope it works. Last year we had people come from every town in CT and 14-15 states. It's pretty incredible, traveling all that way just to be scared. Lets hope the gas prices don't scare them away. The Boo Crew has been working on their characters, just waiting for their first victim to enter into their scene. I pity the first few groups. This year we are having workshops with special guests coming in to help train the actors on makeup, acting techniques and costuming. I really believe the actors are what makes any even of this type a success. The scene is only as good as its actors. This year we have had the privilege of having a great group of high school students come down to the Trail to help us out. They are called CREW (Community Revitalization Efforts of Wallingford) and they are lead by two pretty incredible teachers from Lyman Hall and Sheehan, Jenn Castelli and Mike Tyrrell. For those of you who have not heard about them they spend time helping various local organizations and their year is highlighted by traveling to New Orleans during spring vacation, working to help the victims of hurricane Katrina. What an awesome group. If you would like to follow their story, visit this website... nolacrew.wikispaces.com . That's it for now, we'll be open soon. Check out our website for information. www.trailofterror.com

True Treasures By Diana Lewis Chapter 2 - Continued from last issue. Jonathan found Elizabeth at the grave site again when the wagons were starting to leave. "We have to leave, Beth." he said gently. " I can't," answered Elizabeth, with tears in her eyes. "I know, Hon, I don't want to either, but we have to come on." He gently put his arm around her and led her to the wagon. He helped her up and he climbed in. They pulled in line with the wagons after the last one passed. Elizabeth kept looking back with tears in her eyes. Jonathan couldn't comfort her because he was driving the wagon, but he took her hand and kissed it. She gave him a weak smile. She rode for a while and she asked Jonathan to stop so she could walk for a while, which he did. She fell in step with the women and children who were walking but she stayed mostly by herself. Then a woman with brown hair, tied back into a bun and she wore a brown calico dress, walked up and started walking beside her. "You know he's in a better place," starting a conversation. "What do you mean? He's back there in an unmarked grave. How can he be anywhere else?" asked Elizabeth sharply. "He's not suffering anymore and he's probably having the time of his life where he is." "I don't understand what you are saying," answered Elizabeth. "Who are you anyway?" "I'm sorry. I am Rebecca Chambers, and your son is in heaven with Jesus." "Oh, come on, there is no such place and this Jesus is a myth." "No, He's not, He is real and He is in heaven right now at the right hand of The Father God and your son is there with Him." "I don't believe you. Please just leave me alone. I want to be alone." "Please, you and your husband come by our wagon tonight after supper and I'll show you that He is real and your son is there with Him." Elizabeth looked at the woman wearily. She ran off toward their wagon and Jonathan stopped to let her get on. "What's the matter, Beth?" asked Jonathan. Elizabeth was in tears. "What did that woman say to you?" "She said that our son was in heaven with Jesus. Can this be true?" "Well, it could be possible. My father used to read us the Bible and it teaches that when a person dies, some go to heaven." "Is it possible that he's there and he's not suffering anymore and he's having the time of his life like this woman said? She wants us to come over and she said she would prove it tonight after supper." "Well, I guess it is possible, but I never thought too much of the Bible.." "I always thought those stories were myths. At least, that's what my mother used to say." "I really don't know, Beth. I don't know whether to believe them or not." "Shall we go find out?" she asked. "If you want to," answered Jonathan. "I don't know," she answered. "Well, we can decide later," she nodded. They drove for about another hour and they stopped for the noon meal. They rested for about an hour and they were on the road again until dust. Jonathan had to fix one of the wheels on the wagon that night so they didn't get to go visit the Chambers that evening. He and Jake were busy most of the evening to have it ready by morning. Elizabeth retired early. She went to sleep thinking about her son. When Jonathan came to bed it was late. Elizabeth was dreaming and talking in her sleep. Her son was running towards and she could not get to him. She started screaming and Jonathan woke her up. "Beth, wake up, you're dreaming, Wake up!" he said quietly, while he was gently shaking her. She woke up all out of breath. She kept breathing trying to get her breath. Jonathan waited patiently for his wife. When she was able, she started telling him about the dream. "I don't know what to tell you, Darling, just that it was just a dream. Our son is gone. He will never come back to us. I know it hurts you.. It also hurts me. We need to grieve about this, but go on as well. We will have other children, Beth. They won't take his place but we will love them just as much. He put his hand on her chin and pulled her to him with a kiss. "Now let's some sleep, we will need to get up soon. Jake will be banging on the wagon at 5:00." He took her in his arms and they lay down and went to sleep. Elizabeth didn't dream this time.

Page 25 August 2008

occur if services or dropped or modified prematurely. There are often fees and equipment charges over and above the bundle's advertised price. For example, your cable box, modem or satellite equipment will most likely be extra. Make sure you read and understand all of the fees and charges associated with your package. Finally, be absolutely sure you can receive the advertised services where you live. Some high-speed Internet services may not be available in your area. Satellite is more widely available, provided your home has an unobstructed view of the horizon to the southwest. DSL is widely available in urban and suburban neighborhoods, but not as much in rural areas. If you don't ask, you may not find out until after you sign up. To sum up, one-stop shopping makes sense when it saves time and money without sacrificing value. For many consumers, a bundled telecommunications package is a real deal, but certainly, you should make that determination for yourself. Jerry Farrell, Jr., appointed in 2006 by Governor Rell as Connecticut's Commissioner of Consumer Protection, is an attorney with fifteen years experience. Important information about consumer issues can be found on the Department's website: www.ct.gov/dcp.

Celebrations of Life and Home

CONSUMER CONSIDERATIONS: Phone, Cable Internet Packages - Deal or No Deal? by Jerry Farrell, Jr. Technology certainly can make life simpler, but often, making the right technology choice is not so simple. These days, many technology providers are pitching plans that promise to deliver high speed internet, local and long-distance phone service and cable or satellite television for about $100 a month. The ads promise that you'll enjoy the convenience and simplicity of getting just one bill for these services, and having only one company to call if you have questions or need assistance. Many people certainly save money with this bundled approach. Today, a cable subscription alone can cost $50 or more, so if you use the same provider for cable, phone and internet, a bundled package may save you $20 to $50 per month as opposed to getting the services separately. But, as with just about anything, this latest trend has its advantages and disadvantages. Sharp consumers carefully weigh the pros and cons of bundled services against their actual usage and needs. Your first step before looking at packages is to round up several months' worth of your recent bills for TV service, Internet, and phone. Track what you use and what you spend. This way, you'll be able to compare the promotional offers with your actual usage, costs, and needs. As you review the various offers, notice that many bundled deals are time limited "promotions," usually lasting from three months to one year. You want to find out what happens to the low promotional prices after the promotional period ends; how much will your bill go up? Some telecommunication companies will offer to lower your rate if you sign a contract that locks you in for a year or more. Before signing any contract, read all the literature carefully. Be sure you understand what happens if you terminate the contract early. Termination fees are known to be as high as $250. Remember to compare your current usage, needs and costs with those offered through the plan. Read all the terms carefully to make sure you are getting what you need and saving money as well. For example, in some Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Press Crossword August 2008 bundles, long distance minutes are Answers. Puzzle by Ruth Gordon. limited, so if you need a lot of long distance time, you'll pay extra. You want to ask what the rate will be if you go over the limit. Some companies that provide Internet phone service don't support faxing, so if your home business requires it, you'll be out of luck. Similarly, if the Internet phone provider has an outage or interruption in service, you'll be without phone as well as Internet service until the system is back online. If your needs change while you're in a promotion period or contract, you may be unable to change service options without encumbering additional expense or a rate increase. Even with providers that don't require contracts, rates can rise if one of the bundled services is dropped or changed. Ask about penalties or other problems that may Continued Top Right

Congratulations Amurah aged 13 years old for winning the Miss Teen Black Expo. She was crowned at the 18th Annual Meriden Black Expo on Sunday, June 22nd. Love, Grandmother, Mom and Dad!

Now is the time to book Ruth for all of your Autumn Parties and Events!

Autumn Stay Contest

Page 26 August 2008

Enter to win 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 Celebrations 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: Autumn Contest

If your entry is correct you will be entered into our drawing! Deadline for all entries is September 1, 2008. 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 September 5, 2008. Winner will be notified by phone and agrees to have photo and name published. Winner must pick up prizes from participating businesses.

Page 27 August 2008

A Note To The Publisher (Andy, I know you are a busy fellow, so don't answer this email.) In response to your email to me, things do seem to be unfair at times for our struggling middle-class people who are not quite poor enough to qualify for a damn thing. I do complain, don't get me wrong, but I know this -- the United States of America is the best place in the whole world to live! And I do not for one second take that for granted. I feel terrible about the children, who are born into abject poverty in other countries, for their parents also, but I don't live there, and I am thankful, ever so thankful, that God chose me to be born in the USA. There are beliefs out there that a child's spirit in heaven decides where they will be born before they are born. There are reasons for this. If one believes in reincarnation, there are always more lessons to be learned. In one life we may be rich, and in another poor; famous in one; no one in particular in another. I try very hard to approach life on a day-to-day basis and not worry inordinately about the future. I don't know what it holds. I don't have a crystal ball. I do know that this paper serves a purpose. Perhaps it is on a somewhat small playing field in the spectrum of this great country, but for all of those people who contribute to this paper and for all of those who read this paper, where would we be able to post our stories, our joys, our griefs, our comments, our views or read about them if it were not for what you have created for all of us? When I thought one day, What would it be like if The People's Press were not here anymore?, I was taken aback by my own thoughts about that. Where would I send my stories to? What would it be like not to read the great columns that appear monthly, like Gregory Simpson's "Sheltering An Animal's Perspective," "The Mayor's Corner," Dorothy Gonick's "Nature As A Mirror," Bobbie Vosgien's "Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties," and the regular contributors who send in great stories, especially the old-timers like Francis W. Lappert? I am grateful for this paper. I have been given so many opportunities over the last seven years or so (I have lost count of the years, actually) to write stories for this paper, whether they were stories about the town, the mayor, a doll store (Peggy's Porcelains Doll Boutique) , "Paula's Place," my old neighbors on Simpson Avenue, my cat Babe ("The Last 23 Days"), "Raising The Flag On Iwo Jima," the Castle Bank in Meriden, a tribute to my friend Paula Cella ("You Weren't Supposed To Go"), "Where's The Beef?" about a dairy industry here in town (Cella Brothers), "My Mother's Voice" and my piano, "Walking Through The Fire," "The Cat Who Couldn't Play," and just too many stories to remember at this point. This paper got me to write again, something I hadn't done in many, many years. I was so very grateful that I wrote the story about Simpson Avenue when I did, and was it a coincidence? "To All My Friends On Simpson Avenue - This One's For You!" It was in the March 2007 edition. Gracia Parete passed on November 27th, 2007 (the day after my birthday), at age 98 and a half! I saw her children and grandchildren at the wake and neighbors I had known on Simpson Avenue. Gracia was my landlady before the house was sold, and I had known her since 1990. So many people at that wake spoke to me about The People's Press article and how much they appreciated it. Gracia spoke only Italian, but I was assured that the story was read to her and translated into Italian, and she loved it. Thank you, Andy. You just never know when you will touch someone with your words, and you have given me this opportunity I might never have had had it not been for this paper. I know it is hard work to pay the bills, and it is for all of us, but please keep this paper going. (It's okay if you want to delete that sentence.) I appreciate, truly, what you have given to this community of ours. It started out small, but look how it has grown! Could you have imagined it? Gratefully yours, Barbara Sherburne. barndt49@yahoo.com

The American Film Institutes Top 10 Films for: FANTASY 1. "The Wizard of Oz," 1939. 2. "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring," 2001. 3. "It's a Wonderful Life," 1946. 4. "King Kong," 1933. 5. "Miracle on 34th Street, 1947. 6. "Field of Dreams," 1989. 7. "Harvey," 1950. 8. "Groundhog Day," 1993. 9. "The Thief of Bagdad," 1924. 10. "Big," 1988.

GANGSTER 1. "The Godfather," 1972. 2. "Goodfellas," 1990. 3. "The Godfather Part II," 1974. 4. "White Heat," 1949. 5. "Bonnie and Clyde," 1967. 6. "Scarface: The Shame of a Nation," 1932. 7. "Pulp Fiction," 1994. 8. "The Public Enemy," 1931. 9. "Little Caesar," 1930. 10. "Scarface," 1983.

The Brian David Ash Annual Fundraiser This September 5th, 6th and 7th The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund will hold its twenty-second fundraiser at Stop & Shop on East Main Street in Meriden. The fund was created in memory of our son Brian, who perished in a house fire twenty-five years ago. We decided to establish a fund in his name to promote fire safety education. We had learned that we couldn't just give money to the fire department, because it would have to go into the city's general fund, and probably wouldn't find its way to their budget. On Friday, October 14, 1983 my heart was ripped right from my chest. My son, Brian, age 7, had died in a fire. In a single moment, I went from being the farther of a bright and beautiful child to childless. My wife Roberta and I had no local families, and we were in total despair. We did in deed have to take the long journey through the valley of grief. As I look back from the edge of the brighter side, I realize it is possible for life to go on. In the beginning, Brian was in my thoughts every waking moment. Today, only things that would remind me of him bring me to think of him. Since his loss, we have had a daughter, Elizabeth, who is now twenty-three. As a family, we speak of him often, but our life continues today as we are now, and not dwelling in the past. It almost seems callous, but it is true, life does go on. Shortly after our loss, my most difficult question was, do your have any kids or how many children do you have? Oh, what a great chance to dump your grief on someone else's shoulders. Of course if you don't mention the child you lost you would be guilty of denying their existence on this earth. How do I answer that question twenty- five years later? That depends on who asked and why. It's usually small talk from someone who really doesn't know you. As a driving instructor, my students frequently ask me if I have children. I do tell them I have a daughter who is a college student. This is very relevant to my relationship with students. I generally will not mention the child I lost years before they were born because it's not relevant, and my relationship with them doesn't need emotions. So much has changed over the past quarter century that I am not the same person I was when I lost Brian. Life does go on, and I have to live out the one I have now, even with the fond memories of the past. I look to the future when my daughter graduates from college, enters the career of her choice, gets married, and gives me grandchildren I can spoil and send back home with her. Don't worry, I will tell my grandchildren about the uncle they never met. Michael G. Ash

An Open Letter from the Meriden Arts Trust Dear Friends, We could all use some good news about now. So, let's help our friends and neighbors come together as an organization that will give a real boost to the community! The Meriden ArtsTrust, Inc. and the Zach Weston/Walter Q. Peabody Foundation are 'drumming up" a new community initiative and we hope we can count on your support. "The Crescendo Committee to bring a new symphony to Meriden", or "The Crescendo Committee" for short, of which I am a part, is a group of musicians and non-musicians who are bringing a new Symphony Orchestra to Meriden. Through e-mail, the area newspapers, posters and word-of-mouth we are contacting everyone who wants to have a lively and active Symphony to once again bring Orchestra music back to Meriden. Please send this e-mail to anyone who you think would have an interest in helping up bring together adult musicians from age 20 and up who wish to spend quality time together with other musicians and bring a civic orchestra to Meriden. We all miss "Tchicken and Tchaikovsky"-we all miss the wonderful sounds and lively shared experiences when we go to a Symphony concert. Musicians- if you're practicing now - why not rehearse? A benefit concert by Mr. Christopher White, organist, will be announced soon. Please support this wonderful cause and pledge your support for a New Meriden Symphony by purchasing a ticket and attending what will be a great concert and reception. Thanks for your time, and keep an eye out for the advance publicity! Please contact meridenartstrust@yahoo.com for more information or call Mrs. Katrina Axelrod at (203) 235-7445, as soon as possible. Thanks in advance for your help!

Southington Genealogical Society The Southington Genealogical Society will conduct its next business meeting on Tuesday, August 26th at 7:30 pm in Southington Police Headquarters. Members are invited to present summaries of their ongoing research. The general public is invited to bring their questions, researching difficulties, and curiosity. Our summer meetings are a time when we like to reach out to the local community and to all those who have thought of pursuing this fascinating hobby, but had no idea how to get started. We also welcome the challenging questions of those who have tried to research their family history, but have run into problems and given up. To all of you who fall into either category (or even somewhere in-between) we say there is hope! Come to our July and August meetings and find out why being part of a genealogical community can make the difference. There is no admission charge, no obligation to become a member, and seating is on a first come first serve basis. The Southington Genealogical Society is a non-profit organization located in central Connecticut that promotes the accurate recording, research and preservation of family history. The society regularly meets at 7:30 pm on the fourth Tuesday of every month, except December, in Southington Police Headquarters, 69 Lazy Lane, Southington, Connecticut. THE PEOPLES PRESS will be closed for Summer Holiday from August 1st - August 13th. We will return any phone calls or emails on August 14th. Have a great month.

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Page 28 August 2008

Home Country

Hospice is a philosophy of care….. That provides care wherever a patient calls home. This can be in the comfort of your home, nursing homes, residential care facilities and assisted living facilities. I have visited many people in nursing homes and have been impressed with the skill of the care given in local facilities.

Slim Randles It was a silent thing there at first. It was the calm mornings that did it. Each of us became quieter when having breakfast at the Mule Barn truck stop. We'd look at each other and smile and wish each other well without having to say anything. It was a summer thing. Each of us had our own jobs, which ranged from Dewey's transferring manure from the dairy to people's yards, through Bert's obsession with weeding his yard, to Doc's trying to keep us healthy. Herb Collins came in that morning. Herb is a businessman, not too excited about sports, but keen on being one of the guys. He also claims to be borderline psychic. We always thought he was a little strange on that account. Until that summer morning. "Politics going along fine, are they?" Herb asked the quiet philosophy counter. Guys nodded and murmured. "Somebody sick?" Heads shook, still with the faraway look in the eyes. "It's the Lunker, isn't it?" Herb asked. All heads perked up, and we looked at each other with that sudden recognition. Yes, it was the Lunker, that giant trout down in his pool in Lewis Creek. Doc was the first to recognize that Herb was right. "What do you think, guys … tomorrow morning?" "I'll bring coffee," said Dud. "I'm going to catch him," Dewey said. "No worms, Dewey. Barbless flies only." Dewey nodded. "I'm going to try a new fly," Dud said. "Tied some up after I saw them in the magazine. Supposed to be deadly on trout." "I'm glad you're going, Dud," Doc said. "I'll need a witness when I pull him in." The Lunker rose close to a couple of the flies the next day, and some smaller trout fell for them and were quickly released. The Lunker is still under that big pile of rocks on the bottom of Lewis Creek. And that's not a bad thing. Dreams are good. ----------Brought to you by the folks at Cabela's, the outdoor outfitters. Visit them at www.cabelas.com.

Hospice is only for cancer patients….not true! Hospice is for anyone with an end stage disease. This includes congestive heart failure, dementia, lung disease, neurological diseases, end stage liver or renal disease or any number of other end stage conditions. A physician needs to certify that the patient has a terminal illness….but anyone can make the call to ask about hospice and request a hospice evaluation. I have seen many patients whose family or physicians waited until only days or hours remained before they were referred to hospice care. I often wish these patients had started receiving hospice care months earlier - to truly benefit from all hospice has to offer. Hospice is for the patient only…...not true! Hospice provides comfort and emotional support for the patient and their loved ones. Support not only during the illness - but for 13 months following the patient's death. Patients are comforted by knowing that their loved ones will receive the support and comfort they need. One of the many joys I receive from being a hospice volunteer is the gift of being present for my patient's and their families. Knowing that by me visiting they may take a few hours and attend to personal business, shopping or day to day tasks… knowing that their loved one is being cared for that there is a hospice team supporting them and providing excellent professional care - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Many times family members cannot be with their loved - and knowing that a volunteer will visit sets their mind at ease……they know I'll be there - and they know I care…. I can only speak from my personal experience with the Connecticut VNA, a non-profit organization, when I say you will never find a greater group of staff and volunteers whose ONLY reason for doing what they do is to provide quality care at end of life. Volunteers provide a loving presence - through their visits, sharing gifts of music, visiting with a registered therapy animal - just to bring a smile to someone's day.. If you have ever considered volunteering, I would urge you to consider becoming a Connecticut VNA hospice volunteer. It doesn't require a lot of time and what you receive from being a volunteer is priceless. Knowing that I made a difference - that I brought a little sunshine to someone's day or lightened a burden - even just for a little while - is a feeling beyond description. I offer my time and talents - just to help…

Did you know???…….What I have learned as a hospice volunteer! Almost 10 months ago, I finished Connecticut VNA's hospice volunteer training…………and my life changed in ways I could never have anticipated. I have had the privilege to sit with some amazing beautiful people, people who are on their final journey, people who have so much to share, and so much to teach. I would like to share with you some of the things I have learned as s hospice volunteer, and that exemplify how hospice is truly all about living! Hospice means giving up hope- this is not true! Hospice is all about living each day fully. Hospice adds quality and dignity to every day. Too many people are not referred to hospice early enough in their illness to really benefit from all the hospice interdisciplinary team has to offer. The earlier someone begins receiving hospice care, the greater the benefits not only to the patient - but to their loved ones as well.

Do you have questions about hospice care? Do you have a loved one that could benefit from hospice services? Do you want your loved ones to be surrounded by professional, knowledgeable caring people at the end of life? Do YOU want to become a Connecticut VNA hospice volunteer? I encourage you to call the Connecticut VNA 203-679-5300 - it will change your life forever.

Medical Transportation for Meriden Seniors

ATTENTION LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS!

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The City of Meriden Advisory Board on Aging is currently publicizing transportation resources for Meriden senior citizens who are going to medical appointments. Information is being sent to medical offices, churches and other common community organizations. The Board has identified the following medical transportation options for Meriden seniors. You may wish to clip this article to keep for future reference. Please call the number(s) listed for the service you desire. 1. Meriden Senior Citizens Center (237-3338). Transportation for Meriden residents aged 55 and over to medical appointments in Meriden. 24-hour advance notice required. Funded by the City of Meriden, the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and the CT Dept. of Transportation. No fee for the service, contributions accepted. 2. American Red Cross, Wallingford/Meriden branch (265-6721). Transportation to out-of-town (outside Meriden) medical appointments. One week advance notice requested. Partially funded by grants from the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and United Way of Meriden and Wallingford. No fee, contributions accepted. 3. Northeast Transportation Co. (ADA Paratransit Program) (1-800-441-8901). Transportation to medical appointments in Meriden and Wallingford. Riders must complete an application to verify that a disability makes it difficult to use the fixed bus route. Fee charged. 4. American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345). Volunteer drivers provide transportation for cancer patients to medical appointments. Three business days advance notice is requested. 5. Meriden Transit District (235-6851). Fixed route local bus service in Meriden with connections to Wallingford, Middletown, New Britain and New Haven. Special fare for senior citizens aged 65 and over with Medicare card or Transit ID card. The Meriden Advisory Board on Aging meets monthly at the Meriden Senior Center, 22 West Main St., Meriden. Please call the Center at 237-0066 for questions about the Board's activities.

Southington Genealogical Society The Southington Genealogical Society will conduct its next business meeting on Tuesday, August 26th at 7:30 pm in Southington Police Headquarters. Members are invited to present summaries of their ongoing research. The general public is invited to bring their questions, researching difficulties, and curiosity. Our summer meetings are a time when we like to reach out to the local community and to all those who have thought of pursuing this fascinating hobby, but had no idea how to get started. We also welcome the challenging questions of those who have tried to research their family history, but have run into problems and given up. To all of you who fall into either category (or even somewhere in-between) we say there is hope! Come to our July and August meetings and find out why being part of a genealogical community can make the difference. There is no admission charge, no obligation to become a member, and seating is on a first come first serve basis. The Southington Genealogical Society is a non-profit organization located in central Connecticut that promotes the accurate recording, research and preservation of family history. The society regularly meets at 7:30 pm on the fourth Tuesday of every month, except December, in Southington Police Headquarters, 69 Lazy Lane, Southington, Connecticut.

THE PEOPLES PRESS will be closed for Summer Holiday from August 1st - August 13th. We will return any phone calls or emails on August 14th. Have a great month.

Page 29 August 2008

Wallingford Senior Center News and Events The Wallingford Senior Center is open on Thursdays until 8:30 p.m. After 4:00 p.m., continue to enjoy casual activities (cards, billiards, ping pong, games, virtual bowling, reading, and socializing), as well as classes, special events, and supper at Lake View CafĂŠ. SENIORNET COMPUTER LEARNING CENTER CLASS SCHEDULE Registration Dates:August 8, 9:30-11:30 a.m. and August 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m. DESTINATION CHINA: CULTURAL PROGRAM & CHINESE LUNCHEON Wednesday, August 13, 10:30 a.m. China is in the news as host of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. Come learn more about China and enjoy a Chinese buffet luncheon on August 13. Guest speaker Jing Zhang will give us a glimpse into China, its culture and history. Following the free program, a buffet lunch featuring a variety of Chinese dishes will be served. Tickets for the lunch, which are $4.00 for members; $6.00 for non-members, are on sale through August 12. GUIDED MEDITATIONS on Thursdays, August 7, 14, 21 Feeling stressed? Need to relax? Join us for guided meditation workshops Thursday mornings at 10:00 a.m., led by Diane Esposito, Reiki Master Teacher and Holistic Coach. The cost is $10 each session ($15 for non-members). Advanced registration is a must! Do yourself a favor and sign up today to reduce your stress! REIKI: WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT? on Thursday, August 21, 6:00 p.m. What is Reiki? What can it do? How can it help you, your family, friends, pets, and more? Join us and bring a friend to explore energy balancing through Reiki. Learn how this ancient hands-on or hands-over the body technique helps to support and maintain wellness and balance the body, mind, spirit connection through stress release and relaxation. Demonstrations will be offered. Call the senior center at 265-7753 to register. WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP: SEVEN SMART IDEAS THAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Wednesday, August 20, 10:00 a.m. Financially successful individuals know how to safeguard their money and manage their assets. Join us on August 20, for the program, "Seven Smart Ideas You Need to Know", presented by a local financial consulting firm. Refreshments will be provided. Please call the senior center to register to attend this program. This program is open to the public. SOCIAL SERVICES Struggling to Pay Monthly Bills? BENEFITS SCREENING Tuesday, August 19, 10:00 a.m. - Noon RSVP of South Central CT will offer free benefits screenings to individuals age 60 and older to determine benefits eligibility. Benefits QuickLINK is private, free, and confidential! Supporting documents not required, but please bring the following information with you to the screening: Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest.) Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses not covered by health insurance.) Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits.) List of all current prescriptions. Pre-registration required for Benefits Screenings by calling 265-7753. CONNECTICUT'S NEW AFFORDABLE CHARTER OAK HEALTH PLAN "For the first time, Connecticut residents who are not able to get health insurance through their jobs now have access to decent, affordable coverage," said Governor Rell on July 1. The new Charter Oak Health Plan is affordable health coverage geared to Connecticut residents employed by small businesses, people between jobs, young graduates, early retirees and people too young for Medicare. Monthly premium and annual deductible depends on household income. Individual premiums range from $75 to $259 and annual deductibles range from $150 to $900. Get details at 1-877-772-8625 or visit Charter Oak's website at www.charteroakhealthplan.com. ANGEL FOOD MINISTRIES Where can you go to get $70-$75 worth of food for $30? The answer is Angel Food Ministries, based out of Good News Christian Church in Wallingford. This great program has been a huge success in helping families "make ends meet" all over the country. Angel Food Ministries offers restaurant grade food without meeting income qualifications or completing applications. Food Stamps are accepted. Look for menus and information at the senior center on the Member Interest Table. THANKS FROM MASTER'S MANNA FOOD PANTRY Cheryl Avery, President of Master's Manna, sends thanks and appreciation to each and every person who donates Shaw's grocery receipts to benefit Master's Manna. Services include community outreach, food pantry, clothes closet, soup kitchen and resource center. Located at 316 North Colony St., in Wallingford, food pantry hours are Tuesday and Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, and Friday, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monetary donations, tuna, cereal, and paper goods cheerfully accepted. Cheryl can be reached at 678-3042. WHAT DOES MEDICARE COVER? When recovering from an illness, wound, surgery, stroke, or other disabling event, your doctor may prescribe home health care. Medicare pays for home care services under certain circumstances. Our speaker this month will explain Medicare rules for homecare. Please join us Friday, August 15, at 10:15 a.m. Preregistration appreciated and transportation available by calling 265-7753. SUPPORT OUR TROOPS AGAIN THIS SUMMER! We hope to collect items for care packages for our troops in Iraq, Afghanistan and South Korea. Needed items this time include: paperback books, CD's and DVD's. Bring your donations to our collection box located in the Senior Center lobby. Thank you for all your support! THINKING ABOUT . . . a donation or bequest? The Wallingford Senior Center (Wallingford Committee on Aging, Inc.) is recognized by the IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) and all donations are both greatly appreciated and fully tax deductible.

YOU CAN HELP SO MANY! By donating Used Computers and Science Equipment, (microscopes, burners, etc.) Needed for Students in Africa! Your donation is tax deductible and will benefit some of Africa's Most Needy! Call Tom Daley, 203-235-7863 tomdaley777@yahoo.com. Non-Profit - Global Harvest Missions, Inc. Tax id # 85-8013446916C-3

Celebrations of Life & Home

Happy Birthday, Daddy! Love, Kevin Leo Celebrations of Life and Home

WATER GARDEN TOUR PLANNED Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 6, 2008, when a Water Garden Tour is scheduled between 9:00am and 3:00pm in Cheshire. This is a self-guided tour of six Cheshire gardens, each with a distinct water feature; including fish ponds, small lakes and rivers, waterfalls and fountains, terraced water gardens and patio ponds. In addition, each garden features additional areas of horticulture interest, from unusual tropical container plants to ornamental grasses, to late blooming perennials, lush annuals and roses and even a chicken coop. The Cheshire Garden Club is sponsoring this fund-raising event. Tickets are available by mail via Tony Fay, 518 Woodhill Road, Cheshire, CT 06410. Tel. (203) 272-4173, at $10., in advance; and $15. on day of tour,For more information, call (203) 271-1296.

I just want to wish my sister Peggy a VERY Happy Birthday! She is coming from New Mexico for the Summer. Welcome!

Your Meriden Y Mountain Mist Day Camp

With all that Mountain Mist Day Camp has offered in previous summers and the new and exciting programs to be offered this summer, there is something for everyone to enjoy! Through our experience, traditions, and values, we strive to meet the needs of today's children and families. Call for information and to sign-up!

SESSION DATES FOR YOUR CHILD: Session 4 - Aug. 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Aug. 22

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The Meriden YMCA 110 West Main Street, Meriden 203.235.6386

Page 30 August 2008

The deadline for the next issue of The People’s Press is August 26th. Share some news, a story, a photo and more. Email to dawn@peoplespressnews.com. The People’s Press - Get Happy With It! Celebrations of Life & Home Great Job Marilyn! You finished the CNA course! I’m so very proud of YOU! Love, Noni

PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly seek you from the bottom of my heart to secure me in my necessity. (Make your request). There are none that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Grateful Thanks. P.R..

PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly seek you from the bottom of my heart to secure me in my necessity. (Make your request). There are none that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Grateful Thanks. S.T..

The End of the World, or Not Nick Thomas By now, you've probably heard what mischief the Swiss are up to these days. They have built, and are about to turn on, the world's most powerful atom-smasher to study the building blocks of the universe. We're talking an investigation of dark matter, extra dimensions, string theory, subatomic particles, and even the ever elusive Higgs boson. (If you're curious what that is, it's a hypothetical massive scalar elementary particle - just wanted to clear that up). Call me cautious, but when a country can't even make cheese without holes in it, I'm worried what's going to happen when they flip this baby on in August. Seems there is a chance that this machine (known as the Large Hadron Collider - as opposed to the portable Small Hadron Colliders you can buy through mail-order from Lands End) could malfunction just a tad. So are we talking about fusing out a few villa toasters in the Alps? Blowing out the street lights in downtown Geneva? Melting down the European power grid? Nope. How about spawning a black hole that could swallow up the entire Earth. Not that that would necessarily be a bad thing. If it means I don't have to listen to any more smarmy, election-year political rhetoric for another four months, it might just be worth it. But fear not. The experts say that the chances of the Earth being vaporized are about the same odds as winning Lotto. Is that supposed to be reassuring? Generally, when it comes to total, universal, planetary meltdown, a probability of ZERO might be a little more comforting. Of course, this isn't the first time the possibility of a world-destroying, cataclysmic event has been raised. Over the centuries, various nutty characters have predicted something like this would happen, even without the aid of the ingenious Swiss. Many of these world-ending prognostications had their origin in religious doctrine which, for some reason, often seems to attract leaders who delight in making depressing predictions of Armageddon. Let's examine the case of New Yorker William Miller who - modest man that he was - founded the Millerite Church back in the 1800s, and predicted the end of the world would come on April 3, 1843. When it didn't, he tried again for July 7; he struck out a third time on March 21, 1844. Finally, on October 22 the same year, the Earth held together once more, much to Rev. Miller's annoyance. Oddly enough, despite his failures, Miller was revered by many of his Millerite groupies, which is a bit hard to fathom. I mean, if you're going to follow someone who claims he can predict the end of the universe, at least wait until the guy gets the date right before you begin worshiping him. It seems some of the Millerites were, in fact, disenchanted with their doom and gloom leader, and formed a splinter group: the Miller Lites. They were a happier, more relaxed bunch. Along these lines, of course, we all hope the predictions of the atom-smasher-induced demise of the Earth are exaggerated and that if something does go wrong, it will more than likely just take out Norway. "Obviously, there is nothing to worry about," one of the scientists in charge of the project confidently predicted, as he boarded a plane to spend the summer in Tasmania.

Castle Bank is Moving Up (town)! Castle Bank and Trust Company recently announced it is planning to relocate its main office as well as its 852 East Main Street Branch office to 1295 East Main Street on the corner of Research Parkway. This move is a terrific opportunity for Castle Bank as it will provide a better facility and location for our customers. The new location will provide additional services for both business and consumer customers by allowing the bank to offer safe deposit boxes as well as the convenience of a new drive up ATM. The relocation will involve 11 of the bank's executive, operations and commercial lending staff currently located at 100 Hanover Street as well as 7 employees currently staffing the 852 East Main Street Branch. The Branch located at 100 Hanover Street will continue to provide banking services to Castle Bank's west side and downtown customers. Castle Bank will continue to carry on the community banking tradition for the citizens of Meriden.

10th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic The 10th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 13th at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford beginning with registration and a full American breakfast set for 7:30 A.M. A scramble shotgun start will be at 8:30 A.M. All proceeds will benefit the club's special education scholarship fund. The $125.00 fee includes 18 holes w/cart, tee package, cash awards, pro shop gift certificates, $1000 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 2841685.

Emergency Medical Technician Course 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!!!

Hunter's Ambulance Service, Vehicle and Education Resource Center, 474 W. Main St., Meriden. Classes will start on September 2, 2008 until end of January 2009. They are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Additional Saturday sessions are planned. Students must be over 18 years of age or older. Anyone over 16 but under 18 must have a signed parental permission form. (Available first night of class). Class size is limited to 30 students. For more information please call (203) 514-5142.

Pick Your Own Peaches and Blueberries Now!

“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) 464-3088 • 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. 1999-2008 All Text, Logos, Images and other content in print, web or in any way or form are ©Copyright DNA, LLC 1999-2008 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.

and take your pick from the freshest veggies and more at our farm store. Apples will be coming Mid-August!

OPEN EVERY WEEKEND IN AUGUST!

Page 31 August 2008

"Hey Nonno, Now can we cool off with some Italian Ice. I willl take Strawberry!"

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Call 203.269.0135

Paul Martin of Allied Funding Group Licensed Mortgage Broker CT Department of Banking

My network of trusted, high quality lenders gives you a better loan and better savings at the speed and service you deserve! Rates are great and I offer you personal consultations to help find the right way based on YOUR NEEDS!

Better Vision is within your sight! COLONY O PTICIANS 60 Church St. (Rt. 68) Wallingford 203-265-2205

&

O ptometrists

Eye exams by Independent Doctor of Optometry

* Mortgages * Purchases * Refinance * Debt Consolidation * Home Equity Lines of Credit * FHA Loans * Reverse Mortgages “We’ll beat the bank”

1-888-852-5626 www.alliedfundinggroup.net

Page 32 August 2008

Y O U A LW AY S S A V E M O R E E V E N W I T H O U T C O U P O N S AT

MERIDEN FEED FARM • GARDEN • PET SUPPLIES

BLUE SEAL DOG DAYS OF SUMMER SALE BLUE SEAL NATURAL 26 OR KRUNCHIES PREMIUM DOG FOOD $2 OFF A 50LB OR $1 OFF A 25LB BAG *With this Coupon. All specials expire 8/30/08 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

BLUE SEAL LIFESTAGES SUPER PREMIUM DOG FOOD $4 OFF A 40LB OR $2 OFF A 20LB BAG

*With this Coupon. All specials expire 8/30/08 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

BY NATURE HOLISTIC DOG FOOD $6 OFF 33LB OR $3 OFF A 17LB BAG *With this Coupon. All specials expire 8/30/08 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

ONE DAY ONLY BLUE SEAL SAMPLE DAY - SATURDAY, AUGUST 9 STOP BY FOR FREE SAMPLES AND HAVE YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY A BLUE SEAL NUTRITION SPECIALIST! *With this Coupon. COUPON GOOD FOR 8/09/08 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

ONE DAY ONLY SAMPLE DAY COUPON VALID 8/9/08 ONLY! SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $1 OFF ANY OF THE ABOVE COUPONS! *With this Coupon. COUPON GOOD FOR 8/09/08 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

ONE DAY ONLY SAMPLE DAY COUPON VALID 8/9/08 ONLY! BY NATURE DOG BISCUITS - BUY 1, GET 1 FREE! *With this Coupon. COUPON GOOD FOR 8/09/08 or while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit 1 coupon per customer. See store for details.

846 Old Colony Rd., Meriden 237-4414

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 8/30/08

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 8/30/08

The Silver Wash

$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 8/30/08

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 8/30/08

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 8/30/08

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 8/30/08