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190 Center Street. 203.265.1514 August 2009 • Volume 9, Issue 118
Nurse of Michael Jackson Shares Memories
"Maggie's Corner"
A 911 Reaches Kathy McGrath In More Ways Than One. By: Maggie Griffin Meeting with Kathy McGrath, former Nurse of Michael Jackson when he was treated for burn injuries, I will admit she is a very extraordinary woman. Going back 25 years of Kathy's career is a career that means more to her then anyone can imagine. Her career in nursing touched the lives of hundreds of people, including Michael Jackson, her patient in 1984. Kathy McGrath, born August 12, 1954 in Waterbury Connecticut, found her calling to enter the medical profession in her later teen years. She wanted to be a Medical Technologist. Following high school, Kathy attended St. Mary's School of Nursing. A 1975 Graduate, she, along with 3 other peers from St. Mary's School of Nursing, left for California. There is where Kathy was a Nurse at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills, Intensive Care Unit. This Center is known to be the hospital to the stars. Kathy was also a Floating Intensive Care Nurse where she would be called to duty to other medical facilities, including the Intensive Care Unit at Brothrotmen Medical Center, the Center where Entertainer Michael Jackson was admitted when he suffered burn injuries to his head during the making the a Pepsi Commercial in 1984. Kathy, being a fan of Michael Jackson, did not expect that Michael Jackson was going to be one of her patients. Jackson was placed in a private room, room number 3307, where he became the patient of Kathy McGrath. As Kathy McGrath, 29 at the time, quoted in The February, 1984 issue of People's Magazine about Michael Jackson when he suffered burn injuries to his head: "He was still pretty shaken up and cold, so we put about five blankets on him." During my conversation with Kathy McGrath, she relived her experience as Michael Jackson's nurse. "He was at the height of his career. Being his nurse was an awesome and honorable experience as his music touched me all my life", said McGrath. Kathy also emphasized one important fact; "As awesome and honorable it was that Michael Jackson was my patient, regardless of him being a celebrity, I automatically went into Nurse Mode. It was important that he had a private room to allow me to care for him and his burn injuries appropriately without interruptions. It is a challenge when giving medical care to burn victims as burn victims can also have other complications related to burn injuries. My job was to make sure all my patients received immediate, top and best medical care, including Michael." Another patient of McGrath, during the same time Jackson was her patient, is a man by the name of Keith Perry who suffered 90% of burns on his body. "Dr. Steven Hoefflin was Michael's Plastic Surgeon at the time. Michael visited Keith Perry a couple of times during his stay in the medical facility, he cared about him and many others who were being treated for burns", said McGrath. Kathy McGrath loved her nursing career in an intensive care unit. She found it not only fascinating, but a career that touched her heart in more ways than one, especially to burn victims. She cared about all of them and treated well over 100 burn patients with immediate medical care. She also specialized in Endoscopy as well. Her career in the medical profession, and how serious she took the medical profession, made a difference for many. Kathy sets the example why all patients, no matter who they are, where they come from or what they do for a living, deserve immediate medical care in emergency situations. She made sure she gave immediate medical care to her patients because that is what was most important to her during her nursing career. Although Kathy is still a licensed Nurse, she embarked on helping people in another area of expertise, Real Estate. Kathy is a REALTOR for Hometown Realtors, LLC in Naugatuck, owned
by her Husband Ken Teach. As a seasoned Real Estate Professional, she takes this same quality of care at heart and applies it to bringing immediate service and attention to her real estate clients, clients who she is honored to be a part of when buying or selling real estate. McGrath quotes "My clients are important to me. Buying and selling real estate is one of the most important decisions in one's life time. There is no hesitation when it comes to providing immediate real estate service to my clients". When I asked Kathy what all her recognitions were in both her nursing and real estate career, Kathy stated she does not believe in personal recognition. "Recognition is not what it is about. What is important to me is the importance of immediate attention and care I provided to my patients during my Nursing Career. I continue to provide immediate attention and care to my clients when it comes to their real estate needs today in my Real Estate Career", said McGrath. Continued on Page 2
Page 2 August 2009
Continued from Page 1 One's Life and Life Time - Kathy is a woman of many ventures that touches the hearts of several people. Helping People is what it's all about. Kathy puts the needs of others before her own. When I sat with Kathy, talking to her about her career in both nursing and real estate, I felt more than honored. Looking at photos as she was sharing with me the past 25 years of her life, I found her devotion to others amazing. It was remarkable for me to talk to Kathy about the past 25 years
"Thank You, I Love You - Michael Jackson" written on the back of one of Kathy’s photos. There is a message Kathy McGrath wants to give to the Jackson family. That message is: "My heart and prayers goes out to the entire Jackson Family for the loss of Michael. No matter what, they are a family and family comes first." Kathy McGrath, Nurse of burn victims that included the legendary entertainer Michael Jackson, is also Kathy McGrath, REALTOR for Hometown Realtors, LLC in Naugatuck Connecticut. She is also The State President of The Woman's Council of REALTORs, A Designated Accredited Buyers Specialist (ABR), e-Pro, A Graduate of the Real Estate Institute (GRI), Designated in Performance Management Network (PMI) and A Seller's Representative Specialist (SRS). Kathy McGrath "Never Can Say Good Bye" as Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 sang in a song. Kathy is and always will be a woman who will always climb levels to help others. I found her accomplishments to be amazing, to conclude behind those accomplishments is her care to provide immediate attention to help others. I am certain she will have more accomplishments to come. She is a prime example of what dedication is for millions. I am honored and blessed to be a friend of Kathy McGrath. Michael Jackson - Thank you for giving us your gift of music, sharing your heart and caring for people. We love you too. You will always be there.
Kathy McGrath wants to share Michael Jackson's many non-musical achievements as a humanitarian.
Kathy, second from left, at the burn unit shortly after the accident. of her life in Nursing and now in Real Estate. Kathy also shared with me her memorabilia's such as the People's Magazine dated back February of 1984 where she was mentioned being Michael Jackson's Nurse. She also shared pictures, such as one with her and other staff members with Michael Jackson in the medical facility where Jackson was admitted prior to receiving out-patient care for his burn injuries. Turning one of the photos over is where I read in Michael Jackson's hand writing to Kathy McGrath: "Thank You, I Love You - Michael Jackson"
*1984 - Donated 1.5 million dollars to burn center. *1984 - Received award from President Reagan for support of drug and alcohol abuse charities. *1984 - Donated proceeds of Victory tour to charity *1985 - Wrote "We are the world" and organized the musical community to be a part of raising millions of dollars for famine relief. *Treated Underprivileged Children to Free Shows during the Bad Concerts *Jackson donated 100 percent of the profits from him single "Man in the Mirror" to charity. *From 1985 to 1990, Jackson donated $500,000 to the United Negro College Fund. *Honored by President George H. W. Bush "Artist of the Decade" award *Heal the World Foundation - The charity organization brought underprivileged children to Jackson's Neverland ranch to ride theme park rides the singer had built on the property. *Dangerous Concert Profits Go to Charity *Publicly Pleaded for More HIV/AIDS Research *Teamed with Luciano Pavarotti for Charity *Michael Jackson and Friends Benefit Concerts *Guinness Record for Support of Charities *Benefit concert in Support of victims after 9/11 Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time. ~John Lubbock
Page 3 August 2009
Mayor's Corner Wallingford Although we are already into the month of August, many recreational events are still scheduled to take place. August brings much excitement as Wallingford will host two major athletic tournaments. First is the Silver Anniversary edition of the TWIST Youth Soccer Tournament. This tournament begins August 15th 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 13th 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 Saturday, August 29th (rain date August 30th) 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 Saturday, August 8th from 1-6:00 p.m.. A reminder that Weber and Gannon Youth Basketball registration for Wallingford residents will be taking place August 3rd through August 21st at the Parks and Recreation Department. This league has had 1100 participants in each of the past three years. All boys and girls ages 8-15 are invited to attend the NFL Punt, Pass & Kick sponsored by the NFL Flag League, Wallingford Vikings Junior Football and the Parks and Recreation Department on Wednesday, August 19th at 6:30 p.m. at Pragemann Park. Please contact the Recreation Department for additional information. The Fall 2009 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
BASEBALL GLOVES NEEDED Baseball gloves in any decent condition are needed for a literacy program called "Beisbol y Biblioteca" (Baseball and The Library) which is starting in August, to help kids in our Meriden projects to improve reading skills. Playing baseball together, followed by going to the library and reading is what the program is about. Please bring baseball gloves and balls to the Meriden Library Children's Room, or contact Dr. Charles Kaplan at 203-235-4422 if you would like to help or have questions. Thank you!
In Loving Memory...
Wallingford Rotary Barbeque Celebrates 53 Years This year the Wallingford Rotary will celebrate its 53rd Annual Barbeque on Saturday August 8, 2009 with a different flavor. This annual event will feature a new day, new menu, new music, children's games, a dunk tank, a classic car show and all with extended hours. Traditionally known as the Rotary Chicken Barbeque this year pork ribs will be added to the menu. There will be both an adult and child's meal. The adult meal includes grilled chicken breast, 1/3 rack pork ribs, corn on the cob, corn bread, cookie and a drink for $14.00. The child's meal includes a hot dog, chips, cookie and a drink for $7.00. The day's events include music by Ferraro Events, children's activities, Amber Alert and a silent auction. The Rotary Club hopes to make this event a fun filled Family Day and the proceeds will serve the community through the Wallingford Foundation. The Wallingford Foundation is the charitable giving portion of the Rotary Club of Wallingford. The Wallingford Foundation has given approximately $800,000.00 locally and around the world. PLEASE join us on the Gaylord Farms Grounds located on Gaylord Farms Road, Wallingford, Connecticut from 1:00PM - 6:00PM
Upcoming August Events at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, Meriden CT 06450 203-639-2856 www.curtisculturalcenter.org Red Cross Blood Drive August 26th,2009 Join us at the Augusta, 175 East Main Street, Meriden for our Annual Blood drive at the Center .....1pm to 6pm. Please contact 1-800-GIve-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) to schedule appointment. www.bloodct.org
Edmond R.J. Vincent went home to be with The Lord on July 17,2007 Beloved husband to Marie(Maruca)Vincent of East Haven Father to Robert E. (Kimberly)Vincent of Wallingford, Kathleen M. Vincent of North Branford, Edmond R.J. (Melissa) Vincent Jr. of East Haven. Grandfather to Nicole and Makayla Harrison, Samantha and Rebekah Vincent, Kaitlyn Vincent We ALL Love AND Miss You!!
Page 4 August 2009
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Happy Anniversary To Mom and Dad, With Love On Your 54th Anniversary They're the wonderful couple who've given so much, and who bring love and joy to the lives that they touch. They're two special people who willingly share, who are never too busy to listen and care. They're the ones who encourage and patiently guide, who think of their children with genuine pride.
My Favorite Childhood Memory - Christmas Eve By Ruth Miglierina Petrucci I remember when I was a little girl of five years old, I was told that at midnight on Christmas Eve all animals could talk. I was torn between waking up to hear if my cat could speak to me or if I would be awake and delay Santa's arrival. You had to be awake for one and asleep for the other. I never did find out if my cat could speak and was fast asleep when Santa arrived. I always left a dish of cookies and a glass of milk by the tree. I think back and wonder why at age five I was petrified to see Santa in the store and sit on his lap. Mom would always try to get me as close to him as possible, but as soon as I saw him I would run screaming through the store and hide under the counter. I enjoyed hearing "Twas the night before Christmas" and seeing pictures of him, but to see him in person was another thing. The following year I finally inched my way up to him little by little and did sit on his lap. My birthday is on December 20th and every year Dad bought a hug live tree to decorate on my birthday. I remember the beautiful lights and all the different ornaments that hung on the branches. Many of my friends said that I was unlucky because my birthday was so close to Christmas and wondered if I missed out of gifts. My answer was "No, I'm glad I was born on the 20th and not I didn't miss out on gifts". I am ten years older than my brother; so it was nice to have someone that I could relive the joys of Santa with and celebrate Christmas Eve with. I would read him stories about Santa Claus, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman. We would send a letter to Santa at the North Pole every year. Thank God he wasn't afraid to sit on Santa's lap. I remember the excitement of Christmas morning opening our gifts. I still love the smell of the Christmas tree, scented candles, pinecones, of cookies baking, the smell of wood burning in the fireplace. It's such a wonderful time of the year; everyone seems to be more friendly with holiday spirit and joy of giving to others. My son Jeff who is grown up still looks for his Christmas book of lifesavers under the tree from Santa. I still have fond memories of the dinners we had with the family and the opening of the gifts. It was such a happy occasion. As the years pass death and disagreements make the family even smaller. I love the Christmas music, the decorations, the snow, the great old movies, "The Bells of Saint Mary" with Bing Crosby and Ingrid Bergman and "It's a Wonderful Life" with Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. This is all part of what makes the holiday so heart warming with lasting memories. One of my favorite books is the Polar Express. For years I've kept a gratitude journal and each day I write down five things that I am grateful for. I am still young at hear and believe that Santa lives on in all of us and I'm still waiting for my cats to talk.
Moon Story By Audrey C. Linke Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first men to walk on the moon in the Apollo 11 Space Mission. Michael Collins, third member of the group, was in charge of the command module, essential for their return to earth, which circled the moon while Armstrong and Aldrin landed. The moon lander touched down at 3:17 Eastern Standard Time, Sunday, July 20, 1969. Aldrin had brought with him a tiny communion kit, given to him by his church that had a silver chalice and wine vial about the size of the tip of his finger. During the morning he radioed, "Houston, this is Eagle. This is the LM pilot speaking. I would like to request a few moments of silence. I would like to invite each person listening in, whoever or wherever he may be, to contemplate for a moment the events of the last few hours, and to give thanks in his own individual way." "In the radio blackout," he wrote later, "I opened the little plastic packages that contained the bread and the wine. I poured the wine into the chalice our church had given me. In the one sixth gravity of the moon, the wine slowly curled and gracefully came up the side of the cup." Then I read the Scripture, "I am the vine, you are the branches. Whosoever abides in me will bring forth much fruit." I had intended to read my communion passage back to earth, but at the last minute Deke Slayton had requested that I not do this. NASA was already embroiled in a legal battle with Madelyn Murray O'Hare, the celebrated opponent of religion, over the Apollo 8 crew reading from Genesis whil orbiting the moon at Christmas. I agreed reluctantly‌" "Eagle's metal body creaked. I ate the tiny Host and swallowed the wine. I gave thanks for the intelligence and spirit that had brought two young pilots to the Sea of Tranquility. It was interesting for me to think: the very first liquid ever poured on the moon, and the very first food eaten there, were the communion elements."
Chris Donovan
By Katie Filippides - Age 10 Chris Donovan was born October 22, 1953. He is famous because he was a State Representative, House Majority Leader and now is Speaker of the house. He is one of the most powerful people in CT. I chose to do my report on him because he is very powerful and my mom knows him. As a child Chris Donovan went to S. Andrew's Elementary in Drexel PA. That is just outside Philadelphia. The classes in that school were very big he had one hundred kids in his classroom. They only had two classes for each grade until sixth grade. In sixth grade he had sixty kids in his class. And because their devotion As a kid he liked to play in his neighborhood. When Chris Donovan came home from school he would change in to is loving and true, play clothes and then play with his friends in his neighborhood. They played games like tak, freeze tag, kick the can, their "family ties" get away, army, football and whilffle ball. They played until dark or until someone was called in for dinner. last a whole lifetime through! He has 8 siblings, (including him), 3 sisters, 4 brothers and himself. He was the fifth of eight. Chris Donovan's first Happy Anniversary job was a paper boy. He used his bike to deliver newspapers. He would fold them and put rubber bands on them. With Love, Then he would put the newspapers in the basket on his bike. He rode around the street throwing the paper on people's John, Olivia and kids front steps. He is Speaker of the House of the Connecticut House of Representatives; he became that on 1/07/09. He has also served as House Chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee from 1997-2003. In 11/04 he was elected Majority Leader. He served two terms as Majority Leader. Chris Donovan is a State Representative and is Speaker of the House of Representatives. 155 COLONY STREET, MERIDEN GENE THIELMAN, OWNER Some major accomplishments by Chris Donovan are being Majority Leader, a State Representative. He recently became Speaker of the House and is one SUMMER HOURS of the most powerful people in CT. TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM JOB OR HOME Mon.-Thurs. 6:45AM - 4:30PM Chris Donovan is still alive and lives in Meriden CT with his wife Elaine WHILE CAR IS BEING SERVICED. (Meriden Area) Friday 6:45AM - 3:00PM Gallen Donovan and his daughter Sarah Donovan. He also has a son who *STARTERS * ALTERNATORS * FUEL INJECTION CLEANING * SHOCK ABSORBERS* lives in Massachusetts. *RACK AND PINIONS * CV JOINTS AND MOST AUTO REPAIRS Some of the most interesting facts I learned are that Chris Donovan plays guitar. He is in a rock and roll band called The Bad Reps!!! That really, really, really surprised me. Another interesting fact is about Rockie the flying squirrel. One morning his wife screamed and ran upstairs. A flying squirrel was sleeping in her had on the coat rack. His wife went to work and he was at home with the little squirrel. It was tan. He was just bigger then a Free Brake Check * Install new pads or shoes * mouse. It jumped off the rack and flew into the air and glided into their livTurn rotors or drums * Repack wheel bearings ing room, and then it ran into their dining room with their cats following. It Our Service Maintains Your & install new seals. went behind a china closet and stayed there until his son caught it with a Manufacturers Warranty - Includes: 4 WHEEL shoe. Chris Donovan's daughter wanted to keep it as a pet but the cats might Tune-up * Oil Change * Air Filter Replacement * Transmission Service * Coolant Flush & Fill with up to 1 have eaten it so they took it to a park and fed it some nuts and raisins. COMPLETE Gallon Free Coolant * Brake Inspection * Maintenance I think Chris Donovan is a very interesting person. He is also a very powReg. $189.95 Inspection * Tire erful person. He was a good person to pick for my report.
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Bibliography: Houseddems.ct.gov/Donovan/index/asp Wikipedia.org/wiki/chris_donovan Chris Donovan
Page 5 August 2009
Wallingford Public Library News and Events THERE IS STILL TIME TO BOOK YOUR SUMMER @ WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY! Join our Summer Reading Program for Adults and enter to win aWPL Summer Book Bag! We've got just the thing you may need to get your vacation going this summer! Whether you are planning to travel to the far corners of the Earth or to the corner of your backyard, we can help you get the most from your summer vacation. Continuing through August and concluding September 3rd, entries will be accepted for the Adult Summer Reading Program. Your entry gives you the chance to win a WPL Summer Book Bag containing a selection of books that are yours to keep and enjoy. We've also thrown in a few necessary summer supplies! Each week our Book Bag giveaway will feature a different selection of books and summer essentials. Read a book or listen to the audio version and enter to win a Summer Book Bag. You need not be present to win. Stop by the Information Desk to pick up a Summer Reading log entry or download and print a copy now. Contest Rules: * Read books or listen to audio books between July 1 and September 3. * For each book read or listened to, write the title, author, and a sentence or two describing the book on the entry form. Include your name and contact information. * Turn in your entry form to the Information Desk to earn a chance to win a Book Bag. There will be a drawing every Thursday of each week, beginning July 9th and concluding on September 3rd. * You may submit additional entry forms every time you read a book but you can only win one Summer Book Bag this summer. * You must be 18 years or older to participate. Future Drawing Dates: 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27, 9/3 Each drawing will be at 5:00 p.m. BOOK YOUR SUMMER @ WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY Book to Movie Matinees! Join us for a film based on a book and travel out of Wallingford to an exotic location without ever leaving the library! All films begin at 2:00 p.m. in the library's Community Room. All are welcome to these free movie events. Dates and titles as follows: August 19: A PASSAGE TO INDIA Based on the novel by E.M. Forster and the play by Santha Rama Rau. While on a trip in 1928 to visit her son, Mrs. Moore, accompanied by her son's fiancee, is appalled at the treatment of the Indians by the ruling British government. Later, they befriend a native Indian who, over-stepping the accepted norms of his culture, invites the two ladies on an excursion. In a strange turn of events, he is accused of attempting to rape the young woman. Rated PG August 26: A ROOM WITH A VIEW Travel back to Italy this month and enjoy this week's filmstarring Maggie Smith, Helena Bonham Carter, Denholm Elliott, Julian Sands, Simon Callow, Judi Dench, Daniel Day Lewis. This film tells the story of the coming of age of Lucy Honeychurch. Longing to burst free from the repression of British upper class manners and mores, she must wrestle with her inner romantic longings to choose between the passionate George and the priggish but socially suitable Cecil. Rated PG-13 September 2: THE KITE RUNNER This powerful tale of friendship and betrayal is based on the book by Khaled Hosseini and takes us from the final days of Afghanistan's monarchy to the atrocities of the Taliban reign. In Dari and English with English subtitles. Rated PG-13 MORE MOVIES Cinema Club Movie: Harvard Beats Yale 29-29 Tuesday, August 4 at 6:30 p.m. Community Roonm An incredible true story that unfolds like a ripping good yarn‌with an uproarious, impossible Hollywood ending, Harvard Beats Yale 29-29 is filmmaker Kevin Rafferty's accliamed documentary depciting one of the most legendary games in the history of sports. Discussion to follow film, no registration required. Friday Flicks Night: I Love You, Man Friday, August 21 at 6:30 p.m. Community Room I Love You Man is just plain funny. After getting engaged, a man realizes that he must find a male friend to be his best man at the wedding. This is a comedy that evokes real laughter, not the perfunctory laugh. Rated R. Especially for Teens 80s Movie Flashbacks: Long live the 80's! The Community Room is booked with 80s movies all summer long. Come to the library and go back in time. All films shown in surround sound on our high definition big screen. All teens attending will be entered into the Teen Zone's weekly summer prize drawing! Weird Science (PG-13) Monday, August 10 at 2:00 p.m. Community Room Ferris Bueller's Day Off (PG-13) Monday, August 31st at 2:00 p.m Free Summer Computer Class and Computer Tutoring at the Library Online Job Search Friday, August 7 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Board Room Learn how to use the Internet to find your next job. Join us for an online job search presentation. Topics include employer websites, job super sites, online classifieds, and social networking. Seating is limited to 12. Please register in person, online, or by phone at 203-265-6754 for this class. One-on-One Computer Tutoring Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard and/or mouse skills, word processing, Internet searching, online job applications, or e-mail. Please call the library at 203-265-6754 or stop by the Information Desk for more details or to register for a session. Board the Career Bus! It's a Free Ride! Tuesday, August 11 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Library Parking Lot The Connecticut Department of Labor Career Express will be parked in the north end of the Library parking lot and DOL staff will provide job search assistance on a first-come, first-served basis. Jobseekers can conduct online job searches, learn about online job search sites, or have their resume critiqued by a certified professional resume writer. Staff will also be available to answer questions on job searches and interviewing techniques. Information will be provided on the DOL/CT Works Career Centers and the services they provide. TEEN ZONE Book Your Summer @ the Library! This Summer is booked with fun, free stuff for Teens to do at the Library. We have fun Wii Tournaments, Anime and Manga discussions, movies, book trivia contests, and concerts. All Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join any event all Summer long. For each book you read over vacation you will be entered into a weekly drawing for a prize. The more you read, the better your chances! The reading incentive program will run continue through August and conclude September 2nd. We look forward to seeing you at the Library over the Summer! Mother Daughter Book Club Wednesday, August 12 at 7:30 p.m. Board Room Be a part of the oldest of its kind in the State! The next meeting will be a discussion of Fink & the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass. Wii Ping Pong Wednesday, August 26 at 6:00 p.m. Community Room Register to play some pong! All teens are invited to sign up but hurry, these events fill up quickly. Call the library or stop by the Information Desk. Participants will be entered into our weekly prize drawing. Take Me Out to the Ball Game Wednesday, August 12: New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 p.m. Thursday, August 27: New York Mets vs. Florida Marlins at 1:10 p.m. This summer come and watch live Major League Baseball at the Library. Enjoy the traditional Cracker Jacks while watching the game on our big screen in surround-sound. You'll feel like you are really in the stadium. We will have score cards, and teach you how to score the game. All games will be screened in the Community Room. School Summer Reading Remember to contact the libray for your elementary, middle, and high school required and recommended reading for the summer. Don't wait until the last minute! Continued on Page 6
Wallingford Family YMCA Camp Ulbrich 2009 Financial Assistance Available!! Make new friends, meet new challenges and have fun! The start of the 2009 camp season is just days away and the Wallingford Family YMCA is excited and ready for this coming season. New camp groups such as Rascals, AllStars, AdventurTeens, Outdoor Explorers and Counselors-in-Training join os for a fun-filled summer! We invite all Wallingford children ages 5 through 15 to participate in swimming, rock climbing, hiking and nature projects at Bertini Park, field trips, arts & crafts, sports activities and much more! Camp Ulbrich is state licensed and accredited by the American Camp Association. Financial assistance is still available for qualifying families. The Wallingford Family YMCA will "never turn anyone away without the inability to pay"! Please visit or call the YMCA 269-4497 TODAY, to register.
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Hours: Tuesday.- Friday. 7-6; Sat 7-4; Sun. 7-2 Clsoed Mon.
Page 6 August 2009
Continued from Page 5 On Display! * Be sure to look for our brand new acquisitions at the "Straight Out of the Box" display featuring brand new books we've just unpacked, located opposite the Circulation Desk. * Staff Picks! See what our staff is reading this summer. Selected books will be on display opposite the Information Desk. Wallingford Public Library Offers JobNow The Wallingford Public Library is pleased to announce a new online free service called JobNow. This new service offers online access to free expert job coaching and resume review. Library patrons can access JobNow from the public computers in the library or from home, and connect to a trained job coach for assistance in their job search process. The JobNow service offers personality assessments for patrons just beginning their job search as well as resume and cover letter templates and examples, live interview practice, online resources, local job search websites, and more. Patrons can link to JobNow from the library's website, www.wallingford.lioininc.org and login with their Wallingford Public Library Card. JobNow is a product of Brainfuse, Inc., one of the nations leading online tutoring providers. For more information, please contact the library at 203-265-6754. Wallingford Library to present CT Money School Series for Seniors Wallingford Public Library and the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut present a series of Connecticut Money School Workshops in August. Each workshop begins at 6:30 p.m. and lasts one hour. All are welcome to attend any or all of the sessions. Advance registration is appreciated. Wednesday, August 12th the first session, Understanding a Reverse Mortgage will discuss how a reverse mortgage works. The workshop will cover the basic concepts and terminology, and the advantages and disadvantages of a reverse mortgage. Thursday, August 13th the second session, Understanding Medicare, will provide an understanding of how Medicare works and what it does and does not pay for. Tuesday, August 25th the final session will focus on consumer debt and money management with a workshop entitled, Managing Your Debt. The CT Money School is a project of the Connecticut Association for Human Services and five non-profit partners. The Agency on Aging is a non-profit organization providing social services and nutrition programs designed to meet the needs of those age 60 and older. Please contact the library at 203-265-6754 to reserve a seat in advance. Wallingford Public Library Mission Statement The mission of the Wallingford Public Library is to acquire, organize and make available books and other resources for the educational, informational, recreational, and inspirational needs of the entire Wallingford Community. The Library will provide service in a pleasant, accessible, well equipped facility and utilize current technology to offer convenient access to resources from remote locations. The Library will provide all service with the assistance of an experienced, professional and helpful staff. Wallingford Public Library 200 North Main Street Wallingford, CT 06492 203-265-6754 Book Seller Accepting Donations The Wallingford Public Library's used book store, the Book Seller accepts gently used paperback and hardcover books, DVDs, audio books, and videos. Donations can be dropped off at the Library's Information Desk. Larger donations and boxes of donated material are accepted by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please call the library in advance to notify the staff if you have boxes to drop off. Please note, the following items cannot be accepted: encyclopedias, text books, and magazines including National Geographic. The Book Seller is located in the lower level lobby of the library. Summer hours are as follows: Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All proceeds from the Book Seller benefit the Wallingford Public Library Association. For more information, please call the library at (203) 265-6754.
Summer Camps from Wallingford Park and Recreation 4168.300 HOOP HOUSE BASKETBALL CAMP o FOR BOYS & GIRLS 7-15yrs "Play basketball, have fun" is our motto as fundamentals are taught daily by Mike Papale, Joe Gaetano and other area coaches. Camp features: daily contests, drills & stations, team trophies and a camp T-shirt. Campers will be divided into age and skill level groups. Camp held at the Rec Dept.'s Hoop House Gym. Each camper should bring a lunch daily. For more info stop by the office and pick up a camp brochure. Session 3 girls only. 4168.302 Session 2 August 3 - August 7 4168.304 Session 3 August 10 - August 14 Fee: $185 per session, $165 each additional session, 2 or more family members $165 each. Staff: Mike Papale, Director Weber Basketball League and Joe Gaetano, Sheehan Boys Varsity Coach. SPECIAL INTEREST CAMPS 2004.310 PLAY WELL LEGO CAMP PRE - ENGINEERING AGES 5 - 6yrs In this fun and age appropriate environment, we will use LEGO to create, play, and learn. Build a city, town or star base with houses, buildings, pyramids, bridges, tunnels, towers and more. Build motorized cars, trains, buses and trucks; race them, crash them, repair them. Explore the many possibilities of LEGO building systems while learning useful construction techniques. When: August 10th - 14th 9:00am - 12:00pm Location: Exit 7A Instructor: PLAY WELL Camp Staff Fee: $130
7 Day New York to Bermuda Cruise Step aboard the m.s. Veendam for the perfect week’s holiday to the enchanting island with a decidedly British flair. Sun drenched pink beaches, golfing and historic locations. Enjoy the comfort and elegance of this 5 star ship that offers everything you have been looking for. May 2-9, 2010 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com
Save the Date!!! Jennifer's House of Hair's 5th annual Cut-A-Thon Saturday September 12, 2009 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jennifer's House of Hair 437 Broad Street, Meriden Food~Drinks~DJ~Drawings~Animals & much more!! All Proceeds to benefit The Chrysalis Foundation & Our Companions. For more information please call 203.235.3166.
Please check out our website for upcoming events and specials. www.jhhair.com
2004.320 PLAY WELL LEGO CAMP PRE - ENGINEERING AGES 5 - 6yrs Using LEGO we'll explore concepts in physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering, and architecture while playing with your favorite creations. Learn how to design and build motorized machines, catapults, demolition derby cars, truss and suspension bridges, buildings, and other constructions. Each session will include directed projects with instruction, performance oriented projects with guidance from our staff. Free building time will be available to construct that "really great project" with HUGE quantities of LEGO. These are fun, challenging, hands on and minds on camps suitable for LEGO novices to "maniacs". When: August 10th - 14th 1:00pm - 4:00pm Location: Exit 7A Instructor: PLAY WELL Camp Staff Fee: $130 Register at Wallingford Park and Rec - 6 Fairfield Boulevard 203.294.2120
NANNY DIARIES AUTHORS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY AUGUST 18 Come to Meriden Public Library on Tuesday, August 18 at 1:30 pm in the Griffin room to meet Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Krauss, the authors of the Nanny Diaries, as they introduce their newest book for teens, The Real Real. Ms. McLaughlin and Ms. Krauss will discuss their newest book and their experiences as writers. Both authors will be signing copies of their books at the end of the event. Books will be available for purchase. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com if you would like to reserve a seat for this event. To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our September issue is August 25th.
Fiddle and Baroque Ensemble
Page 7 August 2009
Mayor's Corner Meriden Favorite Childhood memory I grew up in a suburb of Rochester, NY near Irondequoit Bay which fed into Lake Ontario. My childhood was spent playing sports with my friends, and fishing and boating in Irondequoite Bay. Back in those days, it was common for us to leave the house early in the morning for our daily adventures and not return until supper. We never missed supper! One day, my younger brother and I were exploring a creek along the bay and we came upon an old rowboat adrift in the weeds. What a find! We located some oars and spent many hours fishing and bow fishing for carp and garpike. Although the old boat was barely seaworthy, that didn't stop us from exploring every inch of the bay and her many inlets. We were a modern day Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn as my brother and I looked forward to our forays on the bay. There's something very tranquil about bobbing in a rowboat on the glistening waters of a bay with sea gulls overhead, fish splashing, and puffy clouds lazily crossing a blue sky. Yes, we had it made! But all good things must come to an end. One day when we went to get our boat, it was missing. When we first found the boat, we had assumed that it had been abandoned due to its poor condition. This was a bad assumption. As we came to find out, the boat actually had an owner on the other side of the bay. The boat came loose from its mooring and drifted several miles to where we had found it. He had been looking for his boat and reclaimed it. So this marked the end of our boating days on the bay until years later when my dad bought a motor boat for the family. But I will never forget those boyhood adventures with our rowboat. As I think back on those days, I feel sadness for a bygone era. How many parents today would or could let their young children loose for the day to paddle around a bay in an old rowboat? All of us are now consumed with children's safety for a host of real and imagined threats. Not that this is wrong or bad but it does foreclose any chance for the children of today to experience the carefree days of old that my brother and I enjoyed growing up. Enjoy the beautiful days of summer. Mike Rohde - Mayor
Swimming Back To Health
Cheryl from Meriden is swimming laps in Wallingford after a total knee replacement.
Girls Inc.
50th Annual Westbrook Drum Corp Parade
The parade will be held on Saturday, August 22nd. More than 50 national and international corps will be participating. A feature international corps will be the "Geese Eaters" from Switzerland. The event is free. The parade begins at 11am with the muster following at Ted Lane field. For more information contact the Westbrook Drum Corps, P.O. Box 269, Westbrook CT or call (860) 399-6436
Whitey Ford Signing
Private signing with Yankee great Whitey Ford - 1961 Cy Young and World Series champ. Six times World Series champ. 1974 Hall of Famer. The signing will be August 16th 2009 in New York. Have your items signed by one of the greatest pitchers of all time. Contact or visit Grand Slam Sports to arrange signing - 1374 East Main Street in Meriden 203-440-2377
Girls Inc. Celebrates Summer Campers ages 4-15 have been busy enjoying their summer participating in weekly themes like Summer Celebration, Wild, Wild West, Camp Rock, Girls Inc. Idol, When I Grow Up, and much more. They’ve enjoyed swimming, arts and crafts, games, science activities to name a few of the areas they rotated through daily. Campers learn about our mission of inspiring all girls to be Strong, Smart, and Bold through their activities in our premiere all girl environment. This summer has been filled with smiling faces, giggles, and plenty of fun. Girls Incorporated of Meriden is a non-profit organization that inspires all girls to be Strong, Smart, and Bold through summer and afterschool programs. Contact Girls Inc. today at 235-7146 to find out how to get the love one in your life involved.
Filipek’s Kielbasa Just in time for your Summer Barbeque. Mmmm!
S A V E .50 P E R l b . o n o u r famous Kielbasa S A V E $1.00 P E R l b . FOR 10 lbs. OR MORE! With this ad - Expires 8/31/09 262 Elm St., Meriden 237-3488
Page 8 August 2009
Cheerleading Clinic The Sheehan Cheerleaders are hosting a cheerleading clinic at Sheehan High School on Saturday, August 29th for girls age 5 - 13. The cost of the clinic is $25.00. Participants will learn a cheer, chant, and stunt to be performed at a football game. Participants also receive a t-shirt. For more information regarding registration for the clinic please contact Tracey Shook at sheehancheercoach@sbcglobal.net.
MEMORIES FOREVER! Tanzani Trails Safari
A unique safari in search of Africa’s finest game viewing. Tanzania’s best! Visiting the most popular locations including the famous Great Serengeti. Stay in beautiful lodges along with our favorite tented camps. No one but King Travelways gives you the best in Safari’s. November 2nd-14th 2009 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com
$25.00 Off Any Remote Starter or Combo Package! Seat Heaters only $225 per seat - Save $35.00. *With This Coupon - Can not be combined with any other offer - Expires 9/15/09
584 West Main St. Meriden CT 06451 Tel: (203) 639-8168 Fax: (203) 639-8178
Catering for all occasions this summer at Rosa’s Deli
QRWA Offers "Staycation" Paddle Program Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is sponsoring a series of paddling opportunities for local residents who wish to enjoy a "staycation"-a vacation close to home. There are two kinds of trips: beginner paddles on Hanover Pond and the Quinnipiac River, and more strenuous 5-mile trips down the Upper Quinnipiac River Canoeable Trail. Beginner paddle events are free in cooperation with Meriden Community Block Grant Program (CDBG). Beginner paddles, held at Hanover Pond/Quinnipiac River (free): Wed. Aug. 5 morning paddle--10 a.m.-12 noon Thursday Aug. 6 after work paddle--5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11 morning paddle--10 a.m.-12 noon Thursday Aug. 13 after work paddle 5-7 p.m. Tuesday Aug. 18 morning paddle--10 a.m.-12 noon QRWA will also host canoeable trail river trips that are intended for paddlers with ability to handle a canoe in flatwater river conditions. River trip cost is $15 ($10 for members) to cover insurance and river guides. Pre-registration is required for river trips. River trips, Rte 322 Cheshire to Hanover Pond, Meriden--fee $15 (10 members) Saturday Aug. 8 weekend river trip--10:00 a.m.-1 p.m Sun. Aug. 23 weekend river trip--2:00-5:00 p.m Paddle events are subject to cancellation. Participants should call to confirm event will take place. Interested persons should contact QRWA at 203 237 2237 or qrwa@sbcglobal.net.
A Visit to The Dinosaur Place Dawn Nierenburg-Reynolds I'm a mom of three. My daughter is age 10, my first son is 8 and my youngest son is 6 years old. This was our 2nd visit to Dinosaur place and Nature's Art. However, it was my first visit to their dinosaur themed splash pad and Dinosaur Place's new Dino-maze. The splash pad was a big hit with all three who, for some strange reason, love having water dumped on them and misted in their faces. (Note: These are the same kids who, as infants, screamed when a drop of water hit their eyes in the tub!- go figure) They walked the water logged dino-footprints through dino arches, under torrential T-rex downpours and manipulated elevated water ways through a lock system. All good fun- once we were able to rip them away from the splash pad and dry off we checked out Dinosaur Place's newest attraction, a"maze"asaurus. They have created a permanent maze using 6 foot vinyl fencing that is elevated an additional couple of feet off the ground with extra-tall posts. At the center of the maze, there is a metal playground structure that overlooks the mazeuse this to plan out your escape route- if you have gotten a little lost like I did. If you are really lost, there is an attendant always watching from a central perch. At the end of the maze your adventurous kids- and adults who are young at heart, walk into the life size jaws of T-Rex and slide down his throat. If they survive this, they will run through the maze over and over again just to challenge the T-Rex just like our kids did. No, we weren't done yet. We were about to take a walk through time to the Mesozoic era - the Crustaceous, to the Jurassic to the Triassic. It was neat to watch the kids as they caught sight of something they weren't use to seeing in the woods. The little ones ( my neice age 3 and my friend's son age 2) gasped and sort of checked with their moms to see if this was the real deal and if they should be worried. They hesitated before getting closer to the fence to check out these life-like creatures that appeared to be roaming freely in the woods. I think I spied a little relief when they concluded that these were not living creatures and that they could go up to them and give them a big hug or sit on them for a not-so-candid picture. It was a lovely afternoon. There is a nice pic-nic grove with a great playground for either a home packed lunch or to pick up a bite from Monty's Munchies there on-site snack shack. "I love to play in water and I loved the splash pad! And we went on a walk and saw dinosaurs in the woods. They were really big! Roar!!" Connor age 2 My son (2 years) loves dinosaurs - and so do I. I loved the walk in the woods - it felt as if we were going back in time to Mesozoic (age of the Dinosaurs) Connecticut. On the Dino Trail were large figures of dinos that once walked our very own back yard - Anchisaurus, Therizinosaurus and of course the beloved gentle giant, brachiosaurus. My son loved it! He was sure they were real and couldn't wait to see the next dinosaur and the next dinosaur - but not before I got a photo of him looking up at them in wonder and excitement. Seeing the dinosaurs out among the woods gave Connor a perspective he can't get looking at bones or pictures in books. But before our walk on Dino Trail, we visited the Splashpad. Connor loves water and he spent over an hour in the splahpad alone. Having a small child, I loved that there was a separate area on the Splahpad suited for the young ones. My only regret was not bringing a bathing suit for myself! And maybe the best part for me - the shop with many beautiful fossils, minerals, and crystals - Art straight from the earth. There is something for everyone at the gift shop and I could have spent hours in there alone... but we were off to the "mines" where Connor sifted through gravel in "caves" and found many real tumbled crystals to take home. Connor and I had so much fun together at The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art, and I can't wait to go back again. It truly is a full day of fun for the whole family. Two thumbs up! Connor's Mom Age "unrevealed" I liked the playground. They also had nice facts on the dino-walk and big dinosaurs. It had a great splash pad and a cool new maze with 3 slides. I liked the fossil room too. Sierra Age 10 The Dinosaur Park was great. I liked everything! I thought the waterpark was cool. They had water shooters. Joshua age 8
Many choices of Pasta dishes, Meatballs, Sausage & Peppers, Chicken, Party Subs, Cold cut platters and so much more. Visit our website for even more selections. Visit our website at
rosasdeli.com
Rosa’s Italian Deli, LLC imported and domestic foods party platters • hot and cold subs to go
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I liked the trail with the dinosaurs and the river and the lilypads and we saw a beaver - that was really cool. The volcano was awesome- it really works! The diamond cave where we found diamonds (Jackpot Mine- no actual diamonds offered but there are some great gems and crystals up for grabs.) was awesome and the wood thing in front of the cave (Thunder Creek). There was too much that was awesome. This is a real place. Shaunessy Age 6
WRITERS NETWORK MEETS IN AUGUST AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will host a Writers Network group on Wednesday, August 12 and August 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the Friends Room. We invite anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter to attend. The Writers Network is for anyone who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing. The group will be run by Roberta Dolan, a Meriden resident who is trained in group facilitation and is in the process of writing her first book. The Writers Network group will meet twice a month and will occasionally invite editors, published authors and people versed in the publishing process to speak to the group. If you are interested in joining the Writers Network, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email us comsvc@hotmail.com. I walk without flinching through the burning cathedral of the summer. My bank of wild grass is majestic and full of music. It is a fire that solitude presses against my lips. ~Violette Leduc, Mad in Pursuit There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart. ~Celia Thaxter
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MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER NEWS AND EVENTS
TEEN BOOKMARK CONTEST AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens' Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver's license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community CafĂŠ. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center! * * * * * The Connecticut AARP Tax-Aide program is seeking volunteers to provide one-on-one help in the preparation of income tax returns. Computer literate volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. Tax Counseling for the Elderly is a free, confidential service run by volunteers who prepare Federal and Connecticut tax returns. The service is offered by appointment on the mezzanine level of the Senior Center on Wednesdays from February to April each year. If you would like to join the Meriden AARP Income Tax Team to help in this rewarding volunteer work, please call Meriden Tax-Aide Coordinator Frank Spinelli at 237-6978. * * * * * Sign-ups are now being accepted for the next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center on Wednesday, November 4 and Friday, November 6 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Class participants will learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8-hour course. Successful completion of the classroom course also entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Reservations can be made by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. * * * * * The Senior Center is continuing to take applications from Meriden residents for the Rent Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2008 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. To be eligible, applicants must have been 65 or over as of December 31, 2008 or be enrolled in Social Security Disability. Proof of 2008 income, rent and utilities must be presented at the time the application is filed. Income limits are $30,500 for a single person and $37,300 for a married couple. Applications are completed daily at the Senior Center from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM until September 15. For further information or any questions about the rules and requirements of the Rent Relief Program call the Senior Center at 237-0066. * * * * * A Bridge Club is now meeting each Wednesday at 1:00 PM at the Senior Center to enjoy a few hours of cards. The group meets every Wednesday, except for the third Wednesday of the month, and new players are welcome and encouraged to attend! Also, each Tuesday at 12:30 PM Senior Center members gather for a few games of Scrabble and newcomers are welcome. Both activities are held in the First Floor Meeting Room at the Senior Center and free parking is available in the Hanover Street Parking Lot across from the rear entrance to the Senior Center. * * * * * For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby. Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Do you like to draw? Meriden Public Library is holding a design a bookmark contest for children in grades 6 through 12. The entry forms are available at the library and the deadline for the entries is August 21, 2009. The bookmarks should be reading or library related. For example, it could be a picture representing a favorite author or story, an activity or program they enjoy when they come to the library, or just encouraging everyone to read. All entries must be drawn in a black felt tip pen or marker as the winning bookmarks will be reproduced on colored paper. There will be one winning design from each grade level chosen by the Library Board at their August board meeting. Copies of the winning bookmarks will be available at the library for one year. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about this or any program at the Meriden Public Library.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director
The Floods of 1955 One Woman's Journal by Audrey C. Linke There was a great flood in Seymour on August 19, 1955, and indeed, all through the Naugatuck Valley. My grandmother lived on the outskirts of Seymour, near Beacon Falls, and saw some remarkable things from her porch on the second floor of her Rimmon Hill apartment. She was talking on the telephone with her daughter Gladys when she noticed some trailers gone by. She begged to be excused. "Gladie, I've got to go, there's a trailer going by and I want to watch it." "Surely, Momma," Gladys said, "you've seen trailers going by before." "This one's on the water, Gladie!". And there it was, not just one, but an entire trailer park from Beacon Falls floating by on the Naugatuck River. My uncle, Henry Bonnett, worked at the Brass Mill in Seymour and his parked car was one of many that went floating down the Naugatuck River that day. The Brass Mill had to be dug out by hand. It was full of the foul smelling silt from the Naugatuck River. Uncle Henry was one of those who dug daily for a very long time. He now had no car so could not make the commute to his home on the Housatonic River on the other side of Seymour. He stayed with my grandmother (his mother) and could walk to work from there, a distance of about a mile. Our ten-year-old daughter, Sharyn, was visiting my parents in Oxford at that time and they witnessed an amazing sight from the top of the hill that overlooks the river. Each house on the bank of the river moved onto the river in turn and floated downstream until it hit a waterfall. Then the houses fell apart as they went over the falls. Our friend, Earle Bosworth, was one of the volunteers in a rowboat who rescued people from those houses. How welcome that rowboat must have looked to those stranded in their homes as they were about to be taken by the water of that furious river. We heard later that two women would not allow themselves to be rescued and they were still in their home when it crumbled into debris at the site of the falls. Our friend, Mrs. Knapp, who lived beyond the falls, didn't realize the seriousness of the flood and she, too, refused to leave her home. At least for a time, but then she did get into a rowboat and fortunately so. Her house stood but was inundated by silt all through the first floor. And not only silt, but bodies from cemetery next door to the Knapp home. Mrs. Knapp's son, David, spent many years restoring the home after the flood left its mark. No matter how much new wood he put into the house, the odor of the flood remained. More walls had to be torn down and silt removed from between them. David lost his piano to the flood, too. My mother insisted he report it to the Red Cross because the piano was David's living, he being a professional pianist. After that, the new piano was kept on the second floor. Bridges were taken out by the water, too. When my father brought our daughter home to Hamden, he had to come by an entirely different route. Ray Hausserman, my husband's cousin, was part of the crew that took down what was left of the railroad bridge over Route 67 in Seymour. It was later rebuilt. Terry Parillo, of Waterbury, told me about her father's experience during that terrible time. Her dad, Edmund Donavan, lived in Waterbury and worked in Naugatuck. He picked up his passenger and went to work on the night shift at Uniroyal Rubber Shop. When the flood came, he and his friend wound up on the wrong side of the river. The telephone lines were down so there was no way to reach his family. They made their way to Bethlehem where Terry, then 11 years old, was staying with her grandparents at their summer home. Terry's grandparents went to Waterbury to check on their year-round home and hoping to find Terry's father. Terry's mom was understandably frantic-her husband was missing for three days before he was reunited with his happy and much relieved family. My dentist told me that volunteers in Beacon Falls had not had a hot meal in a week. I just happened to have a large amount of lamb stew meat in the freezer and offered it, along with potatoes, carrots and onions. Mrs. Camarano, the dentist's wife, picked up the food and delivered it to Beacon Falls where someone made a huge pot of stew. Mrs. Camarano told me later that those who ate that hot meal were very grateful. In October, a second flood did more damage and this time my husband and I were able to help, if only a little. We took a ride to Naugatuck with our neighbors, John and Astrid Endriss, who were welcomed as volunteers in their capacity as policeman and nurse. Ray returned home with another neighbor, while I stayed to man the phones, giving the Red Cross workers a much-needed rest. The phone calls I answered were from peoples trying to locate missing relatives; others called in to report people found, some living, some dead. In the morning I returned to Hamden with the Endrisses. My contribution was small but I couldn't have done even that if my dear grandmother hadn't been here to take care of the children while I was away. The summer night is like a perfection of thought. ~Wallace Stevens
The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.
What you need to know! On June 24th, the Wallingford Rotary Club awarded Liz Davis a Paul Harris Fellow for her work with the Amber Alert Program. The Paul Harris Fellow is awarded to individuals or Rotarians for their service above self moto. Liz has co-chaired the Amber Alert Program along with her husband, Mark Davis, a Rotarian for the past 3 years. "The Amber Alert Program is a program that is very much needed program in all communities" states Liz. "Because of the world we live in we need to protect our children as much as we can". Amber Alert registers children from ages 0-18 years old into a database with the State Police and every child receives and ID number and the parents or caretakers are given a card to keep with them in the event their child goes missing. "We have probably registered over 1000 children in this area and there is so much more work to be done with this program that we could be going every weekend", said Liz. Due to Liz's love for children she also assists with recruitment for the area mentoring program with the local schools for the Chamber as well as a Read Aloud Program, Junior Achievement, and the QChamber's scholarships programs. We would like to say congratulations Liz on a well deserved recognition.
Taste The Difference!
Discover the Village of South Meriden’s Best Kept Secret!
AVANTI Serving delicious Southern and Nothern Italian Cuisine. Open for Lunch and Dinner with food available to go! We also offer banquets and catering. Discover the secret of great taste at
AVANTI
Restaurant & Lounge 34 River Road * South Meriden
203-4 440-9 9990
We Make Your Events & Parties Special.
Page 10 August 2009
To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our September issue is August 25th.
People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon Look for the answers in this issue. ACROSS 1. A cat's foot. 4. To edit out (spoken material) from a broadcast 8. Bow and ________ 13. Jessica Simpson's sister 15. A severe recurring headache 16. You _______ not smoke, it is unhealthy 17. Member of "Rat Pack" & x-husband of Patricia Kennedy (initials) 18. A slatted wooden box for storing fruit 19. To become limp and drooping, as a fading flower 21. Term for units of energy associated with motors (initials) 22. Best selling cookie introduced by Nabisco in 1912 25. A tutelary deity or spirit of an ancient Roman household. 26. Male pronoun 28. Second note on musical scale 29. Doctors encourage all of us to do this 33. Paul Simon and ____ Garfunkel 34. In Roman mythology, the twin brother of Romulus 35. Initials of radio conglomerate with trademark of a dog listening to "his master's voice" 36. Physical hereditary units which pass on characteristics from parents to children 39. Compass direction 40. Columbus is the capital of this Midwestern state 42. John Lennon's widow 43. A type of sea eagle 44. A hat usually tying under the chin, worn mostly by babies 46. To arrest or capture 48. 365 days (abbr.) 49. Indirect or understated 50. An infectious disease that affect body tissue, especially the lungs, also known as consumption (abbr.) 52. Jewish ceremony of male circumcision 53. " La ___viata" opera by Verdi 54. Refresh, renovate, improve, etc. 57. Pronoun used to represent an inanimate thing 60. A specific period of time 62. A brave person 63. To perform or execute 64. Marked or often walked paths 66. Level; flat; without surface irregularities, smooth 68. A group of female deer 69. To cause bodily injury or pain DOWN 1. Clergyman in charge of a church
2. Powdery residue left when something is burned. 3. Very healthy version of a common staple food baked into loaves (3 words) 4. The Liberty _____ has a crack in it 5. Guided or directed 6. Star Wars: Episode V - "The _______ Strikes Back" 7. Medicine in the form of a small tablet 8. Any unbroken part of the circumference of a circle 9. Unusual; uncommon 10. In a Christian church, the sanctuary 11. Phrase describing a positive optimistic outlook (4 words) 12. Shed tears 14. The symbol for the element lutetium. 19. Armed hostility between nations 20. This definite article is used especially before a noun, with a specifying effect 23. AT&T slogan; "_____ ___ and Touch Someone…..." (2 words) 24. In baseball you're either safe or ____ 25. Sound of mirth, merriment and rejoicing 27. To make a mistake 28. The usually curved or circular edge of an object 30. Sci-Fi movie in which Halle Barry played "Storm" and Hugh Jackman played "Wolverine" 31. A person who engages in festivities and holidays. 32. Compass direction 35. Steals 37. Opposite of southern 38. A male child 41. A province of east-central Canada 45. A raised railway 47. A singular stomach muscle (slang) 51. An ingot, lump, or wedge of gold or silver 55. Interjection used in seeking repetition or confirmation of a statement. 56. One and the other; two together 58. "Don't talk to me in that ______ of voice!" 59. National association made up of parents and educators 61. A malt beverage, darker, heavier, and more bitter than beer 65. Nazi organization that was created as Hitler's personal body guard 67. Green Mountain State (abbr.)
Swinging Through the Years By Janet Althouse Many of you, I am sure, remember when as a young child how you loved to swing. I remember the swing my dad made for me and hung it in the big Maple tree in our yard. How exciting it was to make it go higher and higher and see if I could touch the leaves on the lower branches. I went so high I would almost flip it over. Sure gave me butterflies in my stomach. I also remember another sort of swing. I lived in a small town with woods all around and, of course, kids love to explore the woods. On the side of of this steep hill, there was a huge grape vine. In one spot where the vine came out of the ground and grew way up into the tall trees, the older kids had managed to cut it loose and it made a little swing. We would pull the vine way up the hill, climb on it and swing out into the trees, sometimes pretending to be Tarzan. What a thrill. Then, too, there was the porch swing. Ah, the porch swing. Such sweet memories. In the summers when I was a teenager I would visit my Great Aunt Minnie. Her daughter had a boy a year older than I and he had a lot of male friends. One summer in particular, I had a big crush on a boy named Bill. He liked to wait until after dark and get me to sit with him on my aunt's porch swing. So nice to sit close together and his hand would slip around my shoulder. He was a little bashful, but not too bashful to sneak a kiss or two. Those were the days. Then when I had my own children, there was a porch swing at my father-in-law's house. When the children were babies they loved to swing and swing. It was an easy way to calm them and help them settle down for bed. Then, of course, as they got older there was the rugged tire swing. You could do so many daring feats on them. The children would spend long happy hours trying to outdo one another on those big tire swings. One swing I can't ever forget because it was a sign of things to come, was is in a picture of my present husband swinging on this big swing hung from a very tall tree at a Christian Retreat we both attended every fall for many years. I took the picture back in 1982 or 1983 when I was still married to my first husband, the father of my children, and was definitely not thinking of ever getting married again. But God had other plans. My first husband died in 1987 and the fellow on the swing and I got married July 4, 1998. Porches sort of went out of style there for awhile, but seem to be coming back now. I'm glad. We don't have a porch on our house, but we have a patio. So a couple years ago I kept looking at these new swings. You know the ones that hang from a steel frame with a canopy over top and a soft weather-proof cushion. One day when my son happened to be home, I took my birthday money and bought myself a swing. He brought it home in his truck and set it up for me. I can't tell you how much enjoyment I have gotten from just sitting and swinging or lying down and resting and swinging. I have a grand daughter who is 28 years old now, but a couple years ago when she would come for a visit we would go out in the evening and swing together. We would get a couple pillows and she would lay her head at one end and I would lay mine at the other and we would, somehow, squeeze ourselves onto the swing, listen to the night sounds and look at the moon. Well, she doesn't get home too often now because she lives way off in Chicago, but she has a younger sister who sometimes would take her place. She and I would go out on a balmy night and "squeeze" ourselves onto the swing like her sister and I did and listen to the breezes in the pine trees on the hill across the street. But children grow up and this year she is a teenager with other interests. But, I still enjoy my swing. It is so soothing, a great stress reliever and a quiet place where you can carry on deep conversations with God. Plus an added bonus, it can also be good exercise for your legs. We have three cats who love to be on the patio in the warm weather, but they aren't too sure about that swing. It moves a little too much for them. I coax them up with me, but they don't stay once the swing starts to move. Last winter we adopted a stray kitten. My husband loves cats and leaves food in the garage for them. He made a place for this little one to sleep on cold nights and slowly she got so she would come in the house. Our three cats turned into four. When we put the swing back out on the patio this summer, she adopted it as her favorite place to lay. Now she and I swing away and she loves it as much as I do. She stretches out, purrs contently and lets me rub her belly, perfectly at home swinging along with me. Hopefully, I will never run out of "swingers" to share my swing, because I believe swings are here to stay in whatever shape or form and I for one intend to always stay young enough to enjoy them to the fullest. How about you?
SUMMERTIME SPECIALS OFFERED AT FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE The Friends of the Library Bookstore at 35 West Main Street in downtown Meriden is currently offering a wide selection of summertime reading at half price. Looking for the best way to tackle your favorite summer sport? Books on golf, baseball, cycling, running, sailing, fishing and much more will teach you the finer points. Rather spend these hot lazy days sitting on a cool porch or reclining in a hammock with a good book? The store is presently overflowing with perfect summer reads…from romance to adventure, personal triumphs to spy novels, mystery and science fiction. Take along a couple of paperbacks on a plane trip, to the beach or mountains or curl up at home with a nice big hardcover novel just for the fun of it. Summer is the time to indulge yourself, take it easy and escape into a good book. The Friends of the Library Bookstore has the perfect books for you at reasonable prices. Since all of our gently used, nearly new books have been donated by library patrons who love to read, we can sell them at $2 for a hardcover and $1 for a paperback….and many of these will be offered at half price! Our most expensive, handsome coffee table are $5 and less. Come in and browse! Our friendly volunteers are eager to help with your choices. We're open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We even validate parking for two hours in the city parking garage behind the store.
Civitan Club Golf Classic The 11th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 12th 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, $1500 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. Make checks payable to M/W Civitan Club with entry form no later than August 1st. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685.
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Page 11 August 2009
Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties
Twilight Tunes
April, May, June, July, rain, rain, rain and rain. Bugs now the humidity. Usually every second or third day the gardens needed to be watered. Not this year. Think it's been done twice. If the sun does peek through the clouds the soil in the potted plants can dry up very quickly. So they still need a frequent watering. Am waiting for that first tomato sandwich. Guess it won't be for another couple weeks. Jimmy has picked two cukes. Some very nice zucchini were given to us. Everybody has been complaining about the growing season and you can't blame them. So much money, time and effort have been put into it. And this lousy weather has messed up the gardeners gardening. Then there are some creatures who have added to the garden problems. The woodchucks have not only chomped away on the veggies but also enjoy the flowers. This has been my worst year for dahlias. Even the new bulbs. Two planted never made a showing and three were almost chewed right down to the ground. We did capture four young woodchucks and safely deposited them in a distant wooded area. Hope there are no more. Also heard the rabbits have been doing their bit too. I think this is the height of the perennial blooming season. Almost everyone who is an avid gardener grows blackeyed-Susans and cone flowers. These two bloom for a long period of time. The various types of yarrow are another one. My knautia begins to bud in May and ends in October. It has produced so many new plants. Will have to give some of these away. The yellow evening primrose shows up every night in all its glory. Until the middle of Septemer. Usually between the 14th-16th of the month. Wish it was the other way around. Open during the day and close at night. Each flower lives only about 10-12 hours. A beautiful sight to behold. Have tried raising sun flowers from the small potted ones to the very large ones. But the squirrels usually make a partial or full meal of them. One year a squirrel was hanging upside down hanging onto the flower and chewing on the seeds. A nice little clump came up last year. It did pretty good for a while. They couldn't have eaten all the seeds because some nice plants came back this year. A huge one is tied to the back fence. A smaller one too. Some are planted at the end of Jimmy's veggie garden. Been bribing the squirrels with peanuts. Don't think I'll have much luck. No harm in trying. Aren't the butterfly bushes beautiful? And they smell so nice. The smaller butterflies have been around for awhile. Now the yellow swallowtail and monarch are making an appearance. They just love that nectar. My other blooming perennials are the hosta, bulbed four o'clocks, liatris, loosestrife, shasta daisy and tickseed. So much for the flowers. Have a few family tidbits I would like to share. Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien
July 10, 1929-July 10, 2009 What a wonderful time was had at Jimmy's oldest sister Jean's 80th birthday gathering at her daughter and son-in-laws home in Moodus, CT on Saturday, July 11th. Besides the attendees, delicious food and believe it or not, a warm sunny day, the many family memories and laughs were a big part of this fun filled party. Jean, may you have many more healthy happy years. Love, Bobbie and Jimmy
Vacation Un (One in French) As I have mentioned in one of last years issues Jodie, John and their three daughters went to Paris and Corsica to visit our son Keith, Jodies's brother. This spring Jodie and her youngest, Izzy-Bella, made a return trip. Most of their time was spent in Corsica. Great food, scenery, beautiful beaches and flowers. The museums and zoos were a big hit with them. Especially Izzy-Bella. Being a lover of animals she is quite taken with her Uncle Keith's menagerie of ten cats. Have included a couple of snapshots.
Wednesday evenings on the Wallingford Parade Grounds Sponsored by Wallingford Parks & Recreation & Stop and Shop 7:00 - 8:30pm Wednesday August 5, "The Blue Agaves" Rock music, ranging from the Beatles to Pat Benetar. You will be greeted with the powerful, yet, soulful vocals of Carissa, the guitar meets the vocals of Johnny, the rhythmic motley of Jim, the lead guitar expressions of Vinny and the basest bass tones of Egan. The Blue Agaves appeal to a wide range of audiences and are perfect for a summer evening. Wednesday August 12 " The Spectacles" Featuring three female vocalists and a solid rhythm section. "The Spectacles" are a versatile, energetic and fun band. Their music consists of popular dance tunes from the 1940's to current hits including a unique performance of classic rock, disco, swing, Motown and standards. Wednesday August 19 "The Funk Brokers Band" The primary objective of Funk Brokers Inc. is to inject the songs you know with bodacious amounts of groove, funk, soul and vibe. Agents of the FBI pledge to protect you from stale, note-for-note renditions of tunes you've heard so many times. Our detectives uncover the best tunes then put a funky spin on them. Do what we can, summer will have its flies. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Izzy-Bella with Uncle Keith’s Somali Sidi
Vacation 2 Jodie, John, Emmy "MeO", Abby and Izzy-Bella spent the third week in July at Cape Cod. And of course the grils menagerie of animals had to remain home. Jodie's girlfriend Paula, Grammie Bobbie and Gump Jimmy were appointed their care givers. Paula kept the pug Olive and French bull dog Napoleon at her house. We went over to their home every day to take care of the remaining animals. Tinkerbell the cat, Tuck the turtle, Jasper the gerbil and Ellie the degu. As with us I'm sure many of you have never seen this creature or even heard of it. She's about the size of a rat, dark brown fuzzy fur and looks similar to a chinchilla. Their water bottles had to be refilled when necessary and food bowls replenished. Tuck was the easiest. You only had to drop five pellets of food into his water tank every day. Now came the "fun"part. Our oldest granddaughter Emmy "Me O" completed her freshman year at Platt. One of her subjects was science. Her teacher Mr. Emple. He asked if one of his students would like to take home during the summer vacation and care for the two class pets which are leopard spotted geckos. Guess who Izzy-Bella with Uncle Keith’s Norwegian Forest Cat volunteered? The female half the size of the male is tan Beeblack.
Keith, Jodie, Izzy-Bella and Kidusan - a friend from Ethiopia
with brown and black spots and named Helen. The male is tan with black spots, name Keller and is blind. It's absolutely necessary that their water bowl is never empty. Their menu consists of meal worms. Two for her and eight for him every other day. This is wher the "fun" comes in. You have to feed them by hand. Try holding a squirming gecko in one hand, a squiggly meal worm in the fingers of the other hand, open their mouth, throw it in, close their mouth and hope your aim is good. If you mess up they'll spit it out and you have to start the process all over again. The end of my story. Hope you enjoyed it and learned how to care for a gecko if are ever asked to baby sit for one.
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Page 12 August 2009
32nd Annual Father Lyddy Memorial Golf Classic On Sunday, August 16, 2009, the Men's Club of St. Frances Cabrini Church in North Haven will be holding their 32nd Annual Father Lyddy Memorial Golf Classic. It will be held at Hunter Memorial Golf Course in Meriden, CT. We are hoping to make this a most memorable day for all our golfers. The price, which includes 18 holes of golf with cart, prizes, buffet dinner at Hunter Memorial and open bar, is $95 per person. It will be a 4 man scramble format. If you don't have four, we will match you up. Shotgun starts at 1:00 p.m. For applications to golf or be a sponsor please contact John Crowe (203)315-7706, Fred Kelly (203)239-3634 or Jim Barry at (203)239-9381.
ROCK OUT! HAVE FUN!
PLAY DRUMS!
Spiritual Renaissance: A New Beginning By Jennifer Jenkins For over 2,000 years, human civilization has been taught that Divine Spirit and Humanity are separate from one another. Fortunately, in recent years, a change in consciousness is emerging. There is an ever-growing awareness of the interconnectedness between the Divine and those on Earth. This awareness is in part due to the freer expression of thought in our culture evidenced from metaphysical teachings and books becoming an acceptable part of mainstream society to on-line sharing of spiritual thoughts and experiences. In fact, it's not unusual to read or hear about individuals recounting an extraordinary experience with the Divine, such as one in which a person in crisis witnesses an Angel coming to their rescue. Because of this awareness of our Divine Connection, a Spiritual Renaissance has begun. We can no longer deny that our physical world is penetrated by a force greater than ourselves and that this force is the most powerful of them all - DIVINE LOVE. The Divine, or as they say, God works in mysterious ways. From my perspective, I can say that is absolutely true. One day, after spending some time in quiet prayer at a beautiful state park, reflecting on a personal issue, I looked up from the picnic table from where I was sitting and noticed a man before me walking his dog. He was wearing a T-Shirt with the words "BLIND FAITH" strewn across his shirt. God was communicating with me through this individual. I realized from that moment that no matter where I am, God is with me and supporting me, that the answer to my prayer was to have absolute faith in God's ability to resolve my personal issue and that everything was going to be okay. As I have learned, keeping one's heart and mind open is extremely important in order to experience all the Light, Love and Miracles the Divine offers. The more open we are the more powerful Divine communication can be. Some people see a bumper sticker and feel a strong resonance within them that they have received divine guidance and/or an answer to their prayers while some receive it while in a meditative state. They TRUST that no matter how, where or when -the answer always comes. The Divine is within and all around us; there is no separation except that which exists within our minds. By opening our minds and letting go of fears and negative thoughts, the illusion of separateness between ourselves and the Divine ceases to exist and we become aware of the powerful and loving connection we have with the Divine and how that LOVE permeates within ourselves and with one another. We are slowly but surely letting go of that which no longer serves us and awakening to our true Divine nature. We are embarking on a path of Light and transforming ourselves into true expressions of God -- Divine Beings. By embracing the Light within ourselves and others, we become LOVE personified. What a positive transformation of our world by this change in conscious thought!!!
Interactive Caregivers Are A Very Important Part of Healthy Aging with Elderly Senior Citizens Who Need Non-Medical In-Home Care from Comfort Keepers in Wallingford
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Any Comfort Keeper employee who refers to him or herself as a caregiver is hopefully interacting with the senior they are looking after. From the greeting a companion should try to be upbeat and positive leaving personal burdens at home. Seniors who are greeted by caregivers might live alone. Many elderly senior citizens are very lonely, they have no visitors and the last thing they need is for an in-home caregiver to enter the home and completely ignore them. We do not want our personal care employees to be grummpy. The companion should be there to give care and not spill his or her problems all over there senior client. The care given should be interactive. Inter often refers to the experience between two people such as the word interpersonal. Active obviously refers to the motions or doings of the body. So when we put the word interactive together what we really mean is the experience between the caregiver and the senior occurs while they are doing an activity together. If we add caregiving, assistance or support during an activity we have interactive caregiving or the experience that happens between two people while doing an activity whereby one is assisting the other. In practical terms what does this mean? It means that individuals offering caregiving services should try at every turn to engage their senior in the activity he or she is doing at whatever level of functioning the senior can participate. This can be small things like when doing the laundry you let a senior fold a towel or towels and you fold along with the person. If the elderly client becomes tired, you can offer to take over. Many times our seniors have an activity they loved to do. For elderly women it could have been cooking or laundry (like folding the towels) and they can no longer do the entire activity but senior citizens can do parts. For senior men it could have been fixing the small things around the house like a loose doorknob or cabinet hinge. If caregivers slow down and learn these things about the senior they are going to help, the caregiving experience can be much more enjoyable to both the senior and the caregiver. Interactive caregiving stimulates the mind and body and may be the best way to help the senior maintain their independence and dignity. Our seniors worked hard all their lives either in jobs or raising families, they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect that interactive caregiving brings. Here at Comfort Keepers our personal care companions restore an elderly persons independance, and freedom by always remaining courteous and polite at all times, and engaging their seniors as often as possible.
Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet - July I had nothing to write until this month's issue as I got a late start this year. I am always rather amazed at how well the weeds do during the spring no matter how much hay I put down the prior fall. I had grass that was at least two feet tall in some sections, and although I started weeding on May 10th, I did not get a single plant in the ground until June 1st. I had a lot of weeding to do over that period of time, plus composting. This is my eleventh summer at Wallingford Community Garden, and my very first year I was on a waiting list and did not even begin weeding until June 4th, 1999, so I kind of keep that in the back of my mind because somehow I had a great garden that year. Any amount of weeds I face now is nothing like that first year, and it was 90 degrees for days. I don't think I could do it today. I go to the garden all winter to feed the birds, so in the spring I did see my jonquils blooming and also tulips I had planted in the perennial garden out front in memory of Pete Wanat. His sister Kathy gave me the bulbs last fall. My artichokes did not come back, but my garlic, catnip, black-eyed susans, and two lilies did, and they are all doing very well. Much to my surprise, a little patch of strawberries also emerged. I had planted a couple of little strawberry shoots two summers ago, and this year they sprang to life. I have eaten about a dozen strawberries, and they were the sweetest I have ever tasted. They kind of spread out into one of my cucumber hills, so I had to make adjustments for that. I also have a volunteer sunflower that is growing right in my row of marigolds on the front border, but that's fine. Should make for an interesting display. There is also a volunteer very small strawberry plant at the end of my row of marigolds. It seems that a lot of gardeners at the Community Garden this year have strawberries. 11 summers ago, I don't think anyone had them. I decided not to plant corn this year, and it's odd, but I only see a couple of gardens with corn this year. On June 1st I planted 18 tomatoes, six each of Jet Star, Better Boy, and cherry, and I hope the cherry tomatoes were not mismarked like they were last year. I really missed those last summer. On June 7th I made six hills and planted cucumbers in those, then planted four basil, and a row of mixed perennial seeds. The next day I planted eight pepper plants a friend gave to me, and two rows of sunflower seeds, Mammoth Gray Stripe and Autumn Beauty. We have gotten so much rain, I am not sure how those will fare, but I have more seeds. Of course every time I plant things, I am digging trenches and weeding as I go along, and also taking wheelbarrow loads of compost to my garden. And then more hay. The hay and compost disappear fast, and fellow gardeners, Marilyn and Paul, were kind enough to grab four bales for me. On June 12th I had one more space to fill, so I bought three perennials and planted them, Malva Zebrina Sylvestris, Coreopsis Rising Sun, and Irish Spring Rudbeckia. I got those over at Beaumont Farm. I am trying to add more perennials each year, so the whole back border of my garden is now perennials, and also part of one of the side borders is. The other day I bought a six-pack of cucumbers because I noticed that some of my cucumbers have already died, which is fairly par for the course. I am not planting them until the threat of rain for days in a row has passed. I am truly hoping the sun will soon shine. The marigolds don't look happy at the moment and the tomatoes are not making any progress yet. I am surprised how many gardeners have not even begun to plant yet, but it has been so rainy and chilly, I am sure it has deterred some people from starting. However, they definitely have a big weeding project ahead of them. Today is June 16th as I am writing this. Maybe by mid-July I'll be picking some cucumbers, but the tomatoes have a long way to go. Can't wait for those! Happy 4th of July to you all! God Bless America. Barbara Sherburne barndt49@yahoo.com
Page 13 August 2009
Haircuts and more to benefit charity It's that time of year again, where all of Jennifer's House of Hair's employee's participate in the annual Cut-A-Thon. The Cut-A-Thon is our annual charity event, in which we raise money for local organizations in need of support. We look to the community for help, whether it is with items to raffle off at the event or just spreading the word. This year has been very hard for people, and we feel that it is important for communities to come together and to not give up on giving. The salon has given us the avenue to be in contact with people that we know can help and will try to make a difference. This year Jennifer's House of Hair has selected a couple of organizations to donate to. Here's the low-down on all the charities: Our Companions: Our Companions is a nonprofit organization that believes no pet should ever be homeless. Every pet is a beautiful, blessed creature that deserves life and love. Yet, in Connecticut, healthy pets are destroyed every day. Some animals facing euthanasia have behavior problems that are easily corrected. Others have health issues that can be resolved in a caring home. Most just need the right treatment and a loving human companion. The staff, animal experts, and volunteers at Our Companions believe there's a proper home for nearly every pet. We're working to create homes for the state's most abused, most neglected, most needy pets. Today we offer dog training classes, one-to-one pet consultations, community education, and many other services. To find out more about this organization and how you can help, visit the web www.OurCompanions.org Chrysalis for Meriden/Wallingford: Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis, Inc provides a safe emergency shelter and services to women and their children who must flee their own homes because of domestic violence. The Chrysalis can house up to fifteen women and children in a confidential location for up to sixty days. During this time, a woman has the opportunity to plan her next move without the fear of abuse. The staff at the Chrysalis provides daily one-on-one counseling sessions and works with the woman on short and long term goal setting. Weekly support groups are held with trained facilitators, and peer-counseling, anger management, and self-esteem development are critical issues that the staff work on daily with the women and children. Mission Statement: The Mission of Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis is to offer safety and alternatives to violence to women and children, to validate their worth by promoting a philosophy which empowers women and children to take control of their lives by making their own choices and decisions WITHOUT the fear of abuse. Jennifer's House of Hair is hosting their 5th annual Cut-A-Thon to benefit the Meriden/Wallingford Chrysalis for Women and Children, and Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary. The event will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 9:00a.m to 3:00p.m at the salon, which is located at 437 Broad Street, Meriden. Wash and Cuts will be $15; 15 Minute Chair Massages $15, Mini Manicures $10, and Mini Pedicures $15. All services will be available on a first come, first serve basis with a sign up sheet available. While you wait everyone is welcome to enjoy the festivities. There will be a DJ, Food, Refreshments, Animals, Face Painting, Raffles and much more. It will be a great family event! All money collected will be donated 100% to the chosen organizations. If you are interested in donating refreshments, have any items you wish to raffle off, or if you just any questions please call the salon at 203.235.3166. Get a haircut and help a great cause!
The Fourth Annual Uria and Johanna Fishbein Memorial Golf Classic The Fourth Annual Uria and Johanna Fishbein Memorial Golf Classic will take place Saturday, August 29th at Traditions Golf Club in Wallingford. The tournament will benefit the Children's Concert performed each year by the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra and the Uria and Johanna Fishbein Educational Scholarship Fund. The Foundation was established in four years ago by the Fishbein Family as a means in which the family members could replicate and continue the contributions of Uria and Johanna to the Wallingford community. The children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren of Uria and Johanna comprise the Foundation Board and run the tournament. In the Spring of each year, the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra presents the Children's Concert which was initiated with the joint creative effort of Johanna Fishbein and Maestro Philip Ventre. For the past 30 years this performance has been enjoyed by every third and fourth grade student in the Town of Wallingford with the intention of providing the children an opportunity to appreciate and understand fine music. In 2004 the Children's Concert was renamed The Uria and Johanna Fishbein-Wallingford Symphony Orchestra Children's Concert to commemorate their enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to this annual performance. The Uria and Johanna Fishbein Memorial Educational Scholarship Fund was formed in 2005 to benefit qualifying students in the Town of Wallingford who need financial assistance in pursuing their educational careers. To date over $20,000. has been donated to these two activities. Anyone interested in playing, being a sponsor, and/or attending the evening dinner should call Brendan Fishbein Gallagher at 203-208-1642 or Jennifer Fishbein Croston at 203-269-5623.
Brian David Ash Memorial Fire Prevention Fundraiser This September 11th, 12th and 13th, from 9 am to 8 pm, The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund will hold its twenty-third annual 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-six 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. Over the past twenty-three years we have been running this fund, we have generated thousands of dollars, which have been used in our campaign to promote our life saving message, "Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives." We have done a lot to try to make this more than a well-worked slogan. Yet, on many occasions we have heard in the news of fatal fires where smoke detectors were not present. For generations, we have heard the slogan, "Don't Drink and Drive", yet alcohol related accidents are still common. Advertising experts claim that there is merit to repetitive messages. Unfortunately, we don't know when these messages do sink in, so we continue in the hope that statistics would have been different had we not taken the effort. Most of our funds are spent on educational items. Over the years we have purchased fire safety videos and books for the fire department and schools. We have purchased coloring books on fire safety, and even have crayons that have been donated to us. We also have purchased many brochures and posters on fire safety. Every year we buy plastic fireman hats that are distributed to the local elementary schools during fire prevention week each October. We also give the fire department magnets and batteries to give to the older students at the same time. Each year we purchase a couple of specialty advertising items that promote our mission and the fund. We try to get items, which are different and will be used regularly. Some of the unique specialty items we have purchased are: oven sticks, which are used to push and pull a hot oven rack, Computer/TV screen cleaners. These were a big hit because they work much better than tissue. One item that got a lot of curious looks was a soft drink can cover. They actually keep carbonated beverages from going flat. This year we are giving out coffee scoops and refrigerator magnets. Items that are different, and get used a lot have a great appeal to us, and people remember them. During the last three years we have been using Brian Ash Fund Frisbee's as plates during our annual fundraiser. Hot dog, soda, chips, and a Frisbee all for $2.00! What a lofty idea? For several years we have also donated money to the fire department for the purchase of batteries for distribution to those who need them. We continue to think of new ways to deliver an old message, because the necessity for has not gone away.
SCRABBLE AT MERIDEN LIBRARY The Meriden Public Library will be holding Scrabble sessions through the summer on the following Mondays at 2:00 pm in the Friends Room: August 10, August 24, September 14 & September 28 Come to practice or learn the game. Everyone is invited. If you have any questions about this or other programs at the library, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email us at comsvc@hotmail.com or stop by at any session.
"MEDICATION MANAGEMENT" PROGRAM AUGUST 24 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY A program on "Medication Management" presented by Donna Jones RN, from Midstate Medical Center, will be held at Meriden Public Library on Monday, August 24 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room. More than 50% of Americans take a daily prescription medication. Ms. Jones will speak on drug interactions and herbal remedies as well as general tips for managing your medications. The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to reserve a seat.
Mohegan Sun Bus Trip! To benefit Jennifer House of Hair’s annual Cut-A-Thon Saturday, August 29th, 2009 Price: $50.00 per person Includes: *Transportation*$15.00 Food Voucher*$15.00 Betting Voucher*Lite snacks and soft beverages will be provided on the bus*First come, first serve, Seats are limited!!*Departure time: 5:00p.m. *The bus will leave from the commuter's lot on Bee Street in Meriden*Return time: 12:00p.m. *The bus will leave the casino at 12:00, and arrive back in town around 1:15a.m. Please call Jen at 203-235-3166 A peacefulness follows any decision, even the wrong one. ~Rita Mae Brown
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www.GuerraRealtors.com Call Toll Free 1-866-281-4956 Customercare@GuerraRealtors.com Holy Angel’s Vacation Bible School Holy Angels Church in South Meriden is currently accepting registrations for Vacation Bible School to be held August 17th through the 21st, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This year’s theme is “Safari Adventure, Discover Jesus the King.” The children (entering grades 1-5) will learn about different safari animals each day while learning more about Jesus in the daily activities of music, crafts, Bible stories, games and snacks (provided) all following the safari theme. Registration concludes June 30th, or when the 40th slot is filled, whichever comes first. Cost is $50 per child. For further information call the Religious Education office at (203) 237-8697, email hare@holyangelschurch.org or visit our website at www.holyangelschurch.org and click on Religious Education for an application. COME JOIN THE FUN!
Dr. Craig L. Nielsen Optometrist Bring this ad in for a 20% discount off a complete set of glasses with your eye exam (can not be combined with any other discount or insurance benefit)
105 Broad Street in Meriden 203-235-9519
Page 14 August 2009
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
Hey Kids - hope you enjoy the last month of Summer! Remember to send in your summertime fun for the next issue of The People’s Press. Email it to Sierra at sierra@peoplespressnews.com by the 25th of August. Have FUN!
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Page 15 August 2009
FREE COMPUTER CLASSES IN AUGUST AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be offering the following free computer classes: "Learn to email" - 9:30 am to 10:15 am Friday, August 14 and August 21 "Learn Microsoft Windows" - 2:30 pm to 3:15 pm Monday, August 10, August 17, August 24 "Learn Microsoft Word" - 2:30 pm to 3:15 pm Wednesday, August 5, August 12, August 19, August 26 - Class size is limited. To reserve a seat, contact the Information Desk at (203) 238-2346 or sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "adult events."
FREE TEEN MOVIES IN AUGUST AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be showing two movies in August for teens. The second movie will be the new movie starring Hannah Montana on Tuesday, August 25 at 2:00 pm. Both movies will be shown in the Griffin Room on the big screen. Popcorn will be provided. Bring your friends and enjoy a free movie. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about any events at the Meriden Public Library.
FREE PHOTO ORGANIZATIONAL CLASS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY RESCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 17 Thinking someday you'll organize your pictures. Your someday is here. For those of you who still have piles and packages and boxes of pictures and can't think of doing photo albums until you are organized, this is for you! Come join Creative Memories Consultant Kitt Dunk who has completed over 20 albums using this method. She is very anxious to share this information with you during this free class on Monday, August 17 at 5:00 p.m. in the Friends Room of Meriden Public Library. Bring your photos and learn how it is done so you can get all those pictures organized once and for all. Please call or email to reserve your seat at 203 630-6349 or comsvc@hotmail.com .
Strides Walk for Diabetes The South Meriden Lions Club is holding a Strides Walk for Diabetes on September 19, 2009 in Hubbard Park. The cost is $20.00 and includes a commemorative t-shirt for all pre-registered walkers, plenty of free food, raffles, a health tent, and lots of free parking. This is an excellent way to enjoy the park with your family and friends and help us fight diabetes. The walk will take place on flat paved surfaces in and around Hubbard Park. For additional information and registration forms please see our website: www.southmeridenlions.com
The deadline for our August issue is Aug. 25th! Don’t forget to send a story or photo about what you did this Summer. If you have an upcoming event in the months ahead send it in it would be our honor to help you AND we will send out each week’s events in our weekly email newsletter to our on-line subscribers to give you even more exposure. Sign up - it’s free! Go to www.peoplespressnews.com and click subsribe! There are several ways to submit: Email: andy@peoplespressnews.com Web: www.peoplespressnews.com Mail: The People’s Press P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492
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SUMMERTIME MEMORIES FROM GIRLHOOD By Phyllis S. Donovan Our Old Swimming Hole On most hot summer afternoons when I was a girl growing up in the small town of Chester in the Massachusetts Berkshires, we would trudge the mile or so to our favorite swimming hole in the river above town. Our swimming season was short and sweet because once the "Dog Days" of late summer were upon us and the river ran low, our mothers, worried about our catching polio which in those days was a real but mysterious threat, kept us out of the water. But while we could, we would go swimming every day. Towels slung over our shoulders, we would walk up through the soft fragrant grasses of an abandoned meadow and down through cool dark woods where we would proceed down a narrow path Indian fashion, silently and single file, until one of us would inevitably cry out sharply, having been stung by one of the fierce yellow jackets which nested under a hollow log on the path. The west branch of the Westfield River was clean in those days and everyone in town went up there to swim in that wonderful natural swimming hole which started where the river squeezed down to a narrow sluiceway between the flat black ledges, running with a swift current until the banks widened out, the current died and sandy beaches flanked both sides of the wide stream. We all learned to swim in the quiet shallows under the watchful eyes of our mothers who sat on the sandy shores while, to the north, teenagers lay on the warm ledges to sunbathe, chipping idly at the garnets which pocked the smooth rock surfaces or diving off the higher points into the deeper, swifter water. People from the west side of town had their own route to the swimming hole which took them through a meadow where cows grazed. The field was surrounded by an electric fence which closely bordered the opposite bank of the river. Most of us experienced at one time or other the strong jolt in the elbow (like someone had hit us with a fist) if we didn't duck low enough to clear that one strand of electrified wire. Some of the older boys built a dam one summer to enlarge and deepen the wide shallow part of the river, and made a rough stone fireplace on one sandy shore for picnickers to use and where trash could be burned. Our swimming hole was a special place and we always kept it neat. None of us owned a watch but when we heard the 4 o'clock quitting time whistle of the small mill in the village, we knew it was time to start home for supper. Tired and hungry after a long afternoon of swimming, we would make the long trek home back through woods and fields, stopping to snack on the sun-warmed wild black raspberries, or if hungry enough, even the mouth-puckering chokecherries growing along the way. Barefoot Days and Tarred Roads All I need is a whiff of hot tar and I am transported back to those lazy childhood days when we went barefoot all summer. By the time we got new shoes to wear back to school, the soles of our feet were as tough as leather. Early in the season, we would walk on the edges of lawns or in the tall soft grasses or dirt beside the roads instead of risking the road's sharp cinders which lodged between the toes and in the crevasses of tender feet making us mince along with an ouch or a yelp. That's why it was such a red-letter year when they finally paved our street. Once the passing cars had packed the layer of trap rock down into the tar (as loose stones clattered up around the fenders of cars, marring their shiny black surfaces with small globs of tar) could we make very good time running in our bare feet along the road to our grandfather's house each evening where our grandmother would fill our galvanized gallon milk cans with raw milk produced by their two cows, Benjamin and Katarina. We never questioned why our grandfather called one of his obviously female cows Benjamin any more than we understood why our father, who took meticulous care of his car, grumbled every summer when the town road crew came back to apply yet another layer of the tar and trap rock to our street. The sticky black tar had the consistency of molasses and never remained benignly beneath the layer of trap rock on the street. It oozed out and clung to everything it touched from the roadside weeds which brushed our legs to the bottoms of our bare feet and our play clothes. It was impossible to remove from clothing; the indelible black marks outlasting the life of the garment. It was easier (but not much) to remove from bare feet and legs with a pumice stone which my father kept in the soap dish on the edge of our old claw-footed tub. I remember scrubbing our skin until it was red to get rid of that stubborn tar each night during our baths. But it is the smell of fresh tar which we can't disassociate with those long-ago summers. To us, it was the best smell of summer, rising from the hot road as we trudged home tired from long afternoons of swimming in the river above town and also after cool summer rains. Even now, whenever we pass road crews spraying down asphalt, it makes me want to get out there in my bare feet and run up and down the road…just for old time's sake.
Page 16 August 2009
What is my favorite childhood memory?
Picnicking in the Southeast corner
Childhood memory; I always enjoyed water. We didn't have a pool & my grandfather (where we lived as an extended family)was very frugal. Water was NOT for enjoyment. We compromised my brother & I by damning up the road gutters in front of our house and when it rained we had ourselves a warm little pond. The harder it rained the better. Remember this was in the early 50s no dirty streets or sidewalks they were swept every day. I have fond memories of this playful escape my brother & I shared Cheap too. Of course one of the first items I bought when I owned our home was a pool. Carole Golitko
Dorothy Gonick A favorite memory of childhood is several memories all rolled up in the Southeast Corner of our Iowa farm. This corner was left as nature intended. The horse and plow didn't enter it for farming purposes. Perhaps Dad left is unmolested as a special place for Mom's enjoyment. Actually it was a bit wet or swampy. Pussy willows flourished as did many of the wild flowers that were native to our area. Birds nested and raised their young. Early each spring Mom would pack lunches and we would wander down to the Corner, skirting the cornfield on our way... Our simple lunch spread out on a flat rock was soon enjoyed; the quiet of our special place broken only by songbirds. We searched for the early wildflowers of violet and Dutchman's Britches, asking Mom to tell us about any flowers that we didn't recognize. We thought she knew everything and seldom disappointed us. We learned fun facts about the lovely, smelly Trilliums, the May apples, and Solomon's Seal before wending our way home. On other visits throughout the summer we gathered Queen Anne's Lace, Chicory and Asters in big bouquets for all to enjoy. Butterflies delighted us, crickets and grasshoppers jumped around out feet. When the gooseberries were ripened, we braved the thorny bushes to gather pails of the tart green berries for jam and pies. It was fun rolling those berries over a screen to remove the stem and blossom ends, anticipating one of Mom's gooseberry pies. Each season held its own special attraction, but the first foray in the spring was my favorite time for picnicking in the southeast corner of our farm.
Castle Bank & Trust Company and Naugatuck Savings Bank Castle Bank & Trust Company will join Naugatuck Savings Bank on August 10, 2009. We will continue to provide excellent customer service with the same friendly staff members that you deal with now. We pride ourselves on developing successful relationships by providing the products and services you need to achieve your financial goals. People have counted on Naugatuck Savings Bank since 1870 and have helped us to be one of the most financially sound banks in Connecticut. We are confident that this union provides strong financial stability, sound lending practices and superior customer service that you expect and deserve
People’s Press Crossword August 2009 Answers. Puzzle by Ruth Gordon.
My favorite childhood memory
With Gradparents who were born in Messina, Genoa and Trieste, Francesca was proud to be asked to sing for a second year at the Southington Italian Festival.
My Favorite Childhood Memory
By Brenda C. TRUMPOLD One of my fondest memories to this day is remembering times growing up in downtown Meriden. Stores lined East Main Street, Pratt Street, West Main and Colony Streets. Even as a young girl and teen I had my favorite stores. Early in my childhood Browns Department store was a place my grandmother and I would visit, a green coat with fur trim, a special gift from her and my grandfather. In later days there was JB's, Vienna and Variety Bakeries, M&P Produce, Stanges Market, Syletex, Perlins, Whalens, Kresge(spelling?), Grants, Harry Israel, and so many more. And who could ever forget, Gus's Hot Dogs and Chili on Grove Street. Alexanders was that candy store than noone could walk by.....peanut brittle a favorite. Christmas time brought decorations strung from side to side going up the streets, with music playing as shoppers went store to store. The many churches tucked here and there chimed away...Emmanuel Lutheran on the corner of Cook and Hanover is the one I remember best. There are far, far to many memories to share, here and now, but growing up in Meriden has given me some of the fondest memories of my childhood.
Childhood Memory
When I was abt 9 years old I met my best childhood friend Barbie (Brodeur)Santos.(I am now 42 and she is 40) I was new to the neighborhood in Naugatuck. Barbie lived a cpl houses down from me and we became fast friends, almost inseperable. I learned to depend on her parents , as almost surrogate ones for myself. Barbie and I would play "house". David Cassidy would be my boyfriend as Shaun Cassidy would be hers. Just hanging with Barbie was my BEST Childhood Memory ~Kimberly Day-Vincent
Peppermint Kisses
Reading makes a difference
By George Arndt It was just another summer day -- not much different than the ones that I'd known in my task of growing up. The sun had come up at dawn -- the same as every day before. The sky was just as blue as I expected it to be, when I slid out of bed that morning. I didn't think there was anything special about it … you might say it was kinda boring, in a funny way. Ah, but I was to find out later that this day would be more than a plain and ordinary one. Janet and I were both ten years young, and as close as two carrots in a vegetable patch. Back then, girls like her were considered tomboys. We would have fun doing so many things together. There was this old dried up creek that used to run along one side of the Bradley Children's Home Center that held many exciting things for us to think about. We could only wonder what stories and adventures that may have been encased in the stones, the sand, and such. Once, I had broken open this big round stone, and found a million seashell fossils embedded into it … and that led us into an imaginary trip to the days of the dinosaurs. We could always find fun in just about anything around us. The two of us even enjoyed sitting near each other during church services on Sunday mornings. I was always given a nickel for the plate at the offering-collection part of Sunday services, but a couple of times I "forgot" to add it to that brass plate held by the nice man who would pass it from pew to pew. So, on this certain Sunday after church, I ran into the corner store and bought a peppermint candy cane to give to Janet. We met, later that afternoon, at one of our favorite places to play a game of cave exploring. It was just a big backyard with these huge bushes that had lots of big leaves and flowers that smelled like somebody's mom. We would crawl in and out of the spaces between the bushes … just as though we were in a pirate's cave. After a while we just sat there and talked. I gave her the candy cane, she thanked me for it, and then she began enjoying it. "Hmm, this is sooo good … thank you, George." I just nodded my head, and sheepishly told her that she was welcome. Then she paused and asked me if I had ever kissed a girl before. I could only shake my head and say, "No." She took my hand, leaned nearer, and then she kissed me … RIGHT ON MY MOUTH. I thought to myself … "So, that is what kissing a girl is all about !" I remember that I liked the taste of the peppermint candy cane that came with that first kiss … so sweet.
"This summer, children and families who participate in New Opportunities' summer lunch program are also getting in some extra reading. Each day, special guest readers share their love of reading and an opportunity to visit the library's bookmobile. This project was developed by the City of Meriden Department of Health and Human Services, New Opportunities, the Meriden Public Library, the United Way, and Meriden Children First. For more information contact 630-3566."
COMFORT KEEPERS WALLINGFORD Carol Carbutti - Owner 157 So. Orchard St., Wallingford 203-697-1030
Shown above: Ruth Gordon and library director Karen Roesler at the Mills Shown below: David Skinnon and Superintendent Mary Cortright at Grove St.
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Page 17 August 2009
Who should be this year's Children Champion? Each fall, Meriden Children First recognizes two or three people who go 'above and beyond' for Meriden's children. The Champion need not be a local celebrity or someone in the newspaper every day. S/he can be a neighbor, a police officer, a teacher - anyone who cares deeply about kids and shows that concern by volunteering, raising awareness on children's issues, motivating others to act on behalf of children or taking on an innovative activity or unique project that impacts and/or improves children's lives. CFI selects people to recognize from nominations that come from people like you. Who do YOU think should be this year's Children Champion? There are two nomination categories: someone employed in the field of education/children/families or someone who volunteers in schools or with children/families. The nomination form is available online at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org Past Children Champions include: 2008 Cliff Comerford, Beat the Street and Frank Olcheski, Cub Scout Troop #22 (in memory) 2007 Hubbard Park Playground Committee: Dawn Nierenburg-Reynolds, Maryann Santos, Joan Goodman; Children's Department, Meriden Public Library; and, Cindy Eddy, St. Andrew's Preschool (School Readiness Preschool Teacher of the Year). Deadline for submission is Friday, August 14, 2009. To obtain a copy of the form contact Children First at 105 Miller Street, fax 630-2423, or email to dwradcliffe@juno.com If you have any questions, contact 630-3566. Champions will be recognized at the annual meeting of Meriden Children First on Wednesday, October 21, 6:00 p.m. I don't think of all the misery but of the beauty that still remains. ~Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl
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Back To School Eye Exams
Sheltering an Animal's Perspective"
by Gregory M. Simpson Relinquish, surrender, abandon, give up, dump, are all verbs used by shelter workers to describe how animals come to them. Circumstances can be dramatic, such as the kittens found floating down the Connecticut River in a garbage bag. More common is the cat left in a box at the shelter door or the dog tied to the fence. Staff can be understanding if the pet owner's move was to the military, a nursing home, or the final move - to a cemetery. However, reasons such as having a baby or moving to a new apartment have always been anathema to shelter workers' ears. True animal lovers do not give up one member of their family for a newer one or a different place to live. As a chat room participant wrote, "Why should pets be given the death sentence, they did not do anything but trust their humans to give them a life commitment....I am a single mom that had four kids and a dog. I got insulted, fought with, and looked until I found one that would take both. I have been there and done that. Please exert yourselves and look harder for a new residence." That is good advice and most animal shelters can help by providing a list of the community's pet-friendly housing. In today's economy, there are at least two more reasons for animals becoming homeless. Some people can no longer afford the costs of animal care because they have lost their jobs or worse yet, their place to live because of eviction or foreclosure. In some cases, animals are abandoned in empty houses and backyards, or set free to roam, all of which can be a death sentence due to starvation, predation, car accident, or other danger. Connecticut House Bill 5807, "An Act Concerning Abandoned Animals", was proposed this session to allow animal control officers notice of eviction proceedings in order to head off animals left in empty residences. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has also set up a Foreclosure Pets Grant Fund (secure.hsus.org/01/foreclosure_fund). Those who need to relocate should contact relatives, friends, and neighbors who may be willing to take their pet temporarily. These same individuals may know others who could provide new, permanent homes, if necessary. When moving in with friends or relatives, one can negotiate expectations, such as restricting the animal to certain areas of the house. To help a friend, neighbor, or relative, one can alternatively try a generous donation to a no-kill shelter to secure a place for a pet that could find a good home if just given a chance. Specific breed rescue groups, found on the internet, may take an animal, as well. Sometimes just the cost of food becomes prohibitive. Feeding Pets of the Homeless (www.petsofhomeless.org) is a nonprofit organization that provides pet food and veterinary care to the homeless and less fortunate in U.S. and Canadian communities. Members collect pet food and deliver it to food banks and soup kitchens that agree to distribute the food to the homeless and impoverished. Another organization, Yoshi's Club, Inc. of Avon, CT (www.yoshisclub.com), has as its mission to provide food and financial aid for pets in need. In addition to community pet food pantries, local animal shelters may have excess food for those who have fallen on hard times. Caring for an animal is more than just food costs. Veterinary hospitals report that even in good economic times, an expensive illness can lead to relinquishment or even euthanasia. Those short on funds should comparison shop for routine veterinary care. Large pet store chains offer low-cost vaccination clinics. A vet may discuss ways to perhaps use less expensive drugs or spread out payments on an installment plan. Care Credit and Wells Fargo Health Advantage cards offer low or no interest plans and extended payment plans. These credit cards connect to participating animal hospitals (www.carecredit.com/vetmed and http://financial.wellsfargo.com/retailservices/wfha_veterinarians.html). Using one of the almost 3,000 American Animal Hospital Association accredited clinics may qualify clients for up to a $500 annual grant to pay for a specific procedure. Keep your eyes and years open for abandoned animals. If you know the animal, you may want to temporarily take the animal and try to re-home him yourself. If not, contact the local animal control officer for dogs or a local animal shelter for cats. Companion animals are members of the family and should be treated accordingly. Safe homes need to be found for them. Animals are not disposable commodities. 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.
Total Cholesterol Screening - Do You Know Your Numbers? Free total cholesterol screenings are available to men and women over the age of 18 who live in Meriden. Screenings will be held on Thursday, August 6 from 1:30-3:30pm and Tuesday, August 18, from 9:30-11:30am. Screenings are held at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street. Normal total cholesterol levels are under 200. If your screening comes back over 200, we will recommend that you see your doctor for a follow-up blood test, which will tell you how much "good" and "bad" cholesterol is in your body. While some cholesterol in the body is ok, too much cholesterol can increase your risk for getting cardiovascular disease such as heart disease. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, the cholesterol can build up on the walls of the arteries that carry blood to your heart. This buildup, which occurs over time, causes less blood and oxygen to get to your heart. This can cause chest pain or even a heart attack. Appointments for the screening are required and are first come, first serve. Educational materials are given out at every screening. Call the Meriden Health Department's clinic office at 630-4234 to make your appointment. The best things in life are unexpected - because there were no expectations. ~Eli Khamarov, Surviving on Planet Reebok
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60 Church Street (Rt. 68) in Yalesville 203-265-7990
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 18 August 2009
Meriden Health Department News Back To School Physicals Back to school physicals for school-aged Meriden residents will be done at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street, from 8:30am-12:30pm on the following days: Monday, August 24, Tuesday, August 25, Wednesday, August 26, Thursday, August 27, Monday, August 31 & Tuesday, September 8 The cost of the physical is $20.00 per child, $50.00 for 3 or more children. Payment for the physicals is cash only. Your child's immunization record is needed at the time of the physical. School physicals are required to enter Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th grade and 10th grade. Call the Meriden Health Department Clinic Office at 630-4234 to make your appointment. Babysitter's Training The Meriden Health Department, Division of Youth Services, will be offering a free babysitter's training program on August 11 and 13, from 8:30-12:30 each day, at 165 Miller Street (the Health Department). You will learn about the basics of babysitting including ages and stages, basic care, safety, how to handle emergencies, and more! This program is for kids ages 11-17 years old. Participants will get a certificate upon successful completion of the course. Please call Jodie Schmidt at 639-5059 to sign up.
The Parent & the Egg "Some are born great, others have greatness thrust upon them." (Teddy Roosevelt from Night at the Museum) It may be strange to hear, but a parent leader is a lot like an egg. I don't mean an egg like Mork's (for the parents old enough to remember Mork & Mindy), but an egg egg - the incredible edible type. Eggs - and parent leaders - are full of potential and need an event to get what's inside out. All eggs are full of potential. Some eggs' potential is for food/sustenance. Eggs are in almost everything we eat unless one is a vegan of course. We can eat eggs at every meal and they can sustain all ages and all economic levels. And some eggs' potential is for life: hard shelled poultry eggs, soft shelled reptile eggs, and mammals' shell-less eggs. Despite my twins' recent argument that humans don't come from eggs, we all came from eggs. Parent leaders are full of potential as well. As parents, we both give life to and sustain our families. As parent leaders, we also give life to and sustain our communities. Eggs also must have an event to get what is inside out. For food eggs, an external event (like cracking for a recipe) gets what's inside out. For life eggs, an internal event gets what's inside out - that's why a chick has a hatching tooth on its beak… Like food eggs, some parent leaders are made. External events - like a major neighborhood change or diagnosis of a child's chronic illness - can push parents into leadership. Like life eggs, some parent leaders are born. Internal events like a desire to enhance and expand the life choice of their children or to share their talents and skills with the community - can take leaders who happen to be parents as well to the next level. The Parent Leadership Training Institute can help both types of parents strengthen their leadership skills and experiences. Internally, parents sign up for PLTI on their own. Externally, parents are given the opportunity to learn/hone their leadership skills through the external events they experience while working on their community projects. Who would've thunk it? Parent leaders are indeed like eggs. Nah noo. Nah noo. by Julissa Nixon, 2009 PLTI Graduate Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) Sign-up today for a free, 20 week training for parents to become stronger advocates for children - and for our community! The current class is now underway, but you can save a spot for the January 2010 class. The class is a creation of the CT Commission on Children. Over the past 12 years, more than 150 Meriden parents have completed this exciting learning experience. You could be next! Go online at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org to obtain the application If you have any questions, please call us at 203-630-3566. The deadline is October 31st.
To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our September issue is August 25th.
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MidState Medical Center Holiday Bazaar Set for November: Crafters Wanted! Are you talented in arts and crafts? Do you have a special skill in jewelry making, hand made note cards or something else? MidState Medical Center is in search of local crafters from its communities for the annual Gift Gallery Holiday Bazaar to be held on Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 9 am - 4 pm in the Horwitz Conference Center at MidState Medical Center. Because of last year's very successful and well-attended event, the Bazaar will once again feature the talent and creativity of those in the community, in addition to employees and volunteers. Some of the crafts will include: jewelry making, photography, hand knit and crochet items, painted towels, floral arrangements, beautiful hand made accessories for the home and so much more! If you are interested in showcasing and selling your crafts, please contact Gift Gallery Manager Theresa Michalik at 203-694-8108 for more information and an application.
STAY-CATION Special!
Enjoy a special $79+tax rate per night. This rate is available most summer weekends and ncludes a $10 food voucher to Yogi's All American Grill & Sports Bar. Available to CT residence, must have a valid CT DL or ID with a CT address. Available Thursday - Sunday Arrivals. through 9/13/09. (some blackout dates apply). Ask for CTSTAY to receive this great summer rate! PLUS!...Enjoy the Deck at Yogi's - Call to check the Live Entertainment Schedule!
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Page 19 August 2009
The Clothes War
Did You Know?
It was sometime in the early 80s when I first saw a kid come into school with black spiked hair, bondage pants, and black lipstick. Everyone stared. We didn't know it was cool to be Goth yet. Then it caught on and there were a bunch of vampires prowling the high school hallways. Today, Fruit of the Loom is fashionable. What's THAT all about? Even those of us who wore hip huggers in the 70s knew enough to keep our underwear from showing! Fashion for girls is just as bad. The skirts and shorts have gotten so high this season that the pocket lining is hanging out! The t-shirts are equally ridiculous. They are so thin that my teenage daughter has to wear three of them to keep her bra from showing through! Where do teens get their absurd fashion ideas? They get their inspiration from the same sources we used to get ours stores catering to the adolescent crowd, TV, and magazines. What's the problem then? Well, the celebrity teens of the millennium are nothing like the Brady Bunch. Lindsay Lohan and Kim Kardashian are far from squeaky clean. In just eight years, popular TV shows have gone from what is now considered the fairly tame Dawson's Creek to the racy Gossip Girl. The stores aren't displaying modest choices on their racks either. Even the bags are rated R. If you're over 35, it's downright embarrassing to carry around your Abercrombie purchase! With this kind of imagery constantly thrown at teens, it's no wonder they're attracted to these risqué and often inappropriate styles. Teens want to look like their peers, and their peers want to look like the celebrities they see spattered throughout the media. Clothing for teens is about making personal choices and breaking with "convention" (a.k.a. their parents). Individuality and independence are good qualities, but teens must realize that their fashion choices make public statements. Even if parents don't agree with their teen's clothing choices, it's imperative to allow him some freedom to choose a personal style. When is it necessary to put the clamps on the latest fad then? Dr. Mary Ann LoFrumento, a pediatrician and creator of Simply Parenting, a book and DVD series designed to bring parenting back to basics, explains, "All teens need to define their identities apart from their parents. Common ways to do this are to change hairstyles and color, or get piercings and tattoos. Clothing styles are another common way for teens to be different from their parents. They claim to be expressing their individuality, and yet they often dress exactly like one another or like the latest teen idol." Dr. LoFrumento says that teens should be allowed to express themselves through clothing choices without too much criticism from their parents. However, there are boundaries that need to be set. Most parents will probably agree that enforcing a level of decorum in certain types of environments is necessary. Just saying "no" because you think something is ugly, is probably not the best idea. "Parents should offer an opinion if they do not like a style. They can say, 'I can't say I really like that outfit on you, however, I respect your fashion choices,'" says LoFrumento. However, she advocates clear-cut expectations for certain settings. "When it comes to school, religion class, or family functions, parents should set boundaries on fashion choice. It is totally appropriate for parents to say 'no' to very short skirts or low cut tops for girls or low hanging pants for boys. Parents should set appropriate fashion boundaries just like they do with other issues." If your teen's clothing choices cause constant battles, it's time to have a serious talk about it. Find out where her choices are coming from. In turn, help her to understand your issues about public persona and respect. If teens know they have a reasonable amount of freedom to choose their own style, and parents are consistent with the limits they set, there will probably be less angst and rebellion. LoFrumento suggests, "Let them have their choices within boundaries which you set. Then just relax and enjoy your teens as they start to grow into their own selves." TIPS AND TALES "I try to choose my battles. If it's MBA (minor but annoying), I let it go. I only reimburse for clothes that I approve of. That makes my daughter think twice before buying something weird or too immodest." Nancy Pratt - Essex Junction, VT "Is it life threatening or morally threatening? If the answer is no, back off!" Abigail Reip, Boxborough, MA Want to share your ideas? Upcoming topic: How to understand/connect with your teen's choice of friends. Please send your full name, address, and brief comments to: myrnahaskell@gmail.com or visit: http://home.roadrunner.com/~haskellfamily/myrna/
My favorite place. My Aunt & Uncle owned an Inn called The Wonderview Lodge.It served food had rooms a snack bar & a restaurant. It was on RT 9 in New York State I believe North Hudson. I went every summer. The memories I have from there, the views, playing with my cousins, the clear water & unending mountains all of these are brought to my mind when times are difficult for me. It's long gone but not in my mind & the love I had for my Aunt Rose. I wish everyone had a place like this to mentally go to. Carole Golitko The submission deadline for the September issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is August 25th. Email your stories, news, celebrations and photos to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Sign up to be a subscriber at www.peoplespressnews.com for updates, reminders and special offers. And many things were left unsaid Wait 'til Your Father Ah, mothers, Gets Home Don't threaten your children! Dad also wants to be a teddy bear, "Wait 'til your father gets home," The lion in the den a statement Playing with its cubs, to instill fear, desperation. The bird who takes its youngsters to and I hoped that the day flight. would never end, I got a call this morning, that he'd never come home. From the hospice; Many times he came tired, exhaustI was told you misbehaved ed, And that you were told Too tired even to exchange "Wait 'til your son gets here." The smallest of attention, a kind Well, I am here, word. That look of fear and desperation And time flies. On your face is so familiar. The bridge that separated us Don't be afraid, come here. Grew, longer and longer, Rest that silver head on my shoulThe wall thicker and thicker, der. Then indifferences settled in. Maybe through the confusion Two men so close in blood, That reigns in it So far apart, We can still say what was never Never having anything said. To say to each other "I love you, daddy" You, the Master; As difficult as these words seem I the pawn. At long last, they were said. Yet many times I wanted My only hope is To throw my arms around your That you have understood them neck. It would have felt so good, Tony Di Pietro But such behavior is unmanly
Sweet corn on the cob is a favorite at mealtime. However, sometimes those pesky silks that get trapped in between the kernels can be hard to remove when preparing the corn. The easiest way to remove the silks from freshly shucked corn is to gently brush the corn with a clean terry cloth kitchen towel. Then cook and enjoy! If you do everything you should do, and do not do anything you should not do, you will, according to the best available statistics, live exactly eighteen hours longer than you would otherwise. ~Logain Clendening
For custom-made pinch pleated sheer curtains that look and fit well at great prices that will surprise you call us for a free quote *Vertical Blinds *Honeycomb Shades *Wood Blinds *1” Mini Blinds *Shutters
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Pick Your Own Peaches and Blueberries Now!
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 20 August 2009
Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet - August Oh, my gosh. Has this been a difficult summer for gardening or what? My July submission for the paper was lost in Andy's computer crash, so you will see that in this issue as well, but what have I been doing in the last month? Well, for one thing, I have only watered the garden maybe twice. The Wallingford Community Garden is in a wetlands area, and when we get a lot of rain, it gets really soggy there. Some gardeners wind up with small ponds in their garden. I have learned to plant everything up in hills and have trenches in between rows. And it helps, but too much rain and very little sun has set my garden about a month behind in growth. I had to plant more cucumbers because most of the first ones died. That's fairly normal for me. I do have a few cucumbers now, but none are ready to pick. I have one cherry tomato so far that is turning pink. I planted 18 tomato plants, and they all now have some green tomatoes, but they are far from being ready to pick. A fellow gardener got me a little nervous when he said a neighboring garden to his has tomato blight and it could spread to other plots. I am hoping he misread the signs. I have lots of yellow branches, but I just pick those off, and it is very normal to have yellowing sucker branches that are worthless anyway. I planted some more perennials as the seeds I planted twice were killed the second time by a gardener putting bales of hay on them. Grrrr. The flowers for the most part are doing great, especially the volunteer sunflower which has at least a dozen flowers or buds on it. I haven't actually counted the buds, but it is going to be gorgeous when they all open up. The sunflowers I planted from seed are still pretty small, and the marigolds hardly look much different than they were when I planted them at the beginning of June. They are a little bigger, but the growth is very slow. Today, July 30th, it is sunny and warm, but we had a thunderstorm last night, and more rain is in the forecast. We also had some rather cool nights in July, which was lovely for sleeping, but it has not helped the garden. I don't remember a summer like this before. Perhaps August will be extremely hot and dry, but I'm not sure about that. All I know is that I haven't been to the garden as often as I would normally be due to not needing to water. Naturally the weeds have been flourishing, so I have spent a lot of time pulling those out. They are sneaky too. All of a sudden I will spot a weed in a tomato plant that is taller than the tomato is. What? Where did you come from? I am really looking forward to my first tomato, but it might be another couple of weeks before I get to have a lovely tomato sandwich. I have a friend who has a garden at her home on her porch. She uses the EarthBox technique. She said she went out to pick some tomatoes that were ripe, and some animal had picked them off the vines. Probably a raccoon. Gardening is not for the faint-hearted. It takes a lot of work, and I am always prepared to share my bounty with animals, birds, and bugs. And that's the way it is. (To borrow Walter Cronkite's closing remark.) Barbara Sherburne barndt49@yahoo.com
We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love. ~Author Unknown
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Hello, my name is Pebbles. When I was eight weeks old I was very sick. I had a disease called Giardia and I also had pneumonia. Even though I was so ill, my family decided to take me home anyway. That’s when I met a man named Dr. James. He’s a veterinarian and he helped me get all better. Yet, I was still getting sick sometimes when I would play with other animals. This continued for two months. Dr. James talked to my family about a new treatment called “DOG-GONECOUGH”. It’s an immune boosting formula that has lots of good stuff to help me fight off all those bad germs. I have been given one every morning for the last six months, and I have been feeling great. Now I go everwhere with my family. My favorite places to go are the dog parks. Dr. James saved my life and made me healthier. I no longer worry about those bad germs anymore. From the tip of my nose to the end of my wagging tail I am thankful for Dr. James. Love, Pebbles
My name is Athena Davis if Meriden, CT. Doctor James St. Clair from Meriden Animal Hospital at 607 East Main Street has been my veterinarian for the last 2 years. I believe that his method of care has been saved my dog’s life and health. His new “DOG-GONE-COUGH” immune boosting formula, in my opinion, has been effective in preenting illnesses in my dog. Pebbles got kennel cough twice in a row and easily caught bacterial germs that made her ill. I stopped taking Pebbles around other animals, in fear that she might get sick again. Pebbles is not two years old and since putting her on the formula six months ago, she is very happy and healthy. I wanted to share Pebbles’ story so that everyone could learn about a man that genuinely cares about animals. Sincerely, Athena Davis
Page 21 August 2009
HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE 22 NO. TURNPIKE RD WALLINGFORD, CT. OPEN TUES.- SAT. 9A.M.- 5P.M. WHAT CAN 50 CENTS- $1.00 BUY? SUMMER CLOTHES, SCHOOL CLOTHES FROM INFANT TO ADULT SIZES! BOTH NEW & GENTLY USED MANY FAMOUS NAME BRAND CLOTHING PLUS SHOE CLEARANCE SALE OF SANDALS & MORE AT LOW REDUCED PRICES GOING ON DURING THIS SPECIAL CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE WHICH WILL END AUGUST 17TH. OTHER SALES DURING AUGUST ARE: BAG DAY IS BACK! FILL A BAG OF CLOTHING ONLY (excudes suits, formal wear, coats or accessories) FOR ONLY $5.00 A BAG, WITH NO LIMIT OF HOW MANY BAGS YOU MAY PURCHASE AND WE PROVIDE THE BAG! AUGUST 1ST- 8TH (SAT. TO SAT.) ALL HOUSEHOLD GLASSWARE BUY ONE GET ONE HALF PRICE(items must be similiarly priced, lowest priced item will be half off) AUGUST 13TH & 14TH (THURS. & FRI.) ALL KNICK KNACKS PRICED $3.00 OR MORE GET 20% OFF(NOT VALID ON COLLECTIBLE ITEMS) ALL TABLE LAMPS 10% OFF AUGUST 20TH- 21ST (THURS. & FRI.) ANY SHEET SIZE BUY 1 GET 1 FOR 50 CENTS(DOES NOT INCLUDE PKGED SETS) ALL CURTAINS 10% OFF AUGUST 27TH & 28TH (THURS.& FRI.) ALL JEWELRY 10% OFF ALL HOUSEHOLD GLASSWARE BUY 1 GET 1 HALF OFF(HIGHER PRICED ITEM FULL PRICE, 2ND ITEM MUST BE SIMILIAR IN PRICE OR LESS) KNICK KNACKS OVER $3.00 GET 20% OFF( DOES NOT INCLUDE COLLECTIBLE ITEMS) DURING THE WHOLE MONTH OF AUGUST THERE WILL BE FURNITURE CLEARANCE ITEMS! GRAB THEM NOW FOR COLLEGE OR YOUR FIRST APARTMENT! HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THAT DONATE OR MAKE PURCHASES AT THE STORE ALLOWING US TO CONTINUE TO HELP WOMEN & CHILDREN OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AS WE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH THE CHRYSALIS INC.
LOST AND FOUND-GOLF BALLS By Francis W. Lappert Shortly after I retired in 1978 after working 41 ½ years in a local silver factory in Meriden, my brother Ernie talked me into taking up the game of golf. We started out playing at the "Hunters Golf Course" in Meriden. We made up a foursome of my brother, Fred Crovo, Robert Westfort and I. I knew very little about the game but Ernie coached me, pointing out the mistakes I was making. I had started out with a cheap set of clubs I bought on sale at Caldor's. I didn't want to invest too much until I knew how much I like to play golf. I liked the challenge so the following year I bought a much better set. We were then playing five mornings a week and I was making good scores for a beginner but I managed to slice the ball several times into the woods bordering the fairway. As I searched for my ball I found several others. I got the notion that I would go to the course early in the morning to search different fairways that were fairly narrow with thick woods and bushes along the sides. This was the start of a new hobby hawking golf balls. On Sunday mornings I began golfing on several different courses not too far from Meriden. Among a few were Timberland in Kensington, Farmingbury in Wolcott, and Indian Springs in Middlefield. Every time I played these courses I paid attention to where most balls were hit out of bounds. I found Indian Springs was the most productive for finding lost balls as I would beat the bushes with a long thin sapling about six feet long also to chase any snakes lurking in the tall grass. One morning while searching along the eighth fairway which had a small pond just in front of the tee I saw a good number of balls in the pond. I saw I would need boots and my ball retriever with the telescope handle to reach some of them. The following week I arrived early before any golfers were out and began to hunt. I started out on the small pond and gathered twenty four from there. That was my best gathering as I would come up with eighty two balls that morning. I would put the balls in my set tub in the cellar with hot water and wash detergent and let them soak for about an hour. I would then take each one out and scrub with a wire brush until they were very clean. I would separate them by mark of the ball such as Top Flite, Titlelist, Wilson, Max-Fli, Pinnacle, and many other brands. At that time I had about fifty dozen in egg boxes set aside, all in number one condition. I sold many of them to my friends at a reasonable price. I had a good many I couldn't sell to any golfer as they had small cuts on them or were off color or scraped, I had a large carton full. One day I was playing with my friends at Pine Valley course in Southington and when on the way home I stopped at the driving range on West Street and asked the owner if he could use these marked balls. He asked how many I had and I said several hundred. He told me to bring them over. I counted five hundred out in a large box and took them. He gave me ten cents for each of them and gave me a check for fifty dollars. Now my hobby was on the road to success. I had one bad experience at Indian Springs one visit when I disturbed a yellow jacket bee nest in the ground and wound up with stings on my right hand and arm. I went to the small pond nearby
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. A.P.R.
and plastered mud on them. When I got home I bathed my hand and arm with a solution that was good for bee stings. By noon time my hand and arm were very swollen. I became very alarmed and went to the emergency room at the hospital. I asked the doctor if I was allergic to bee stings and was told if I was and didn't get help immediately I would not be alive. From that day on I was very alert for bee or wasp nests. I encountered many snakes while searching the brush but I always beat the grass or brush with my long stick. Several years ago I stopped the search for lost balls but as I look back it was one of my most enjoyable hobbies I had. I still enjoy a round of golf when I can find a partner to play with.
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Page 22 August 2009
FREE SAT/ACT WORKSHOPS AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be hosting a series of free workshops to assist students in preparing for the SAT or ACT. The schedule of workshops, presented by Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions, will be as follows: Tuesday, September 15 – 6:30 to 8:00 pm – “SAT vs ACT workshop” Saturday, September 26 – 10:00 am to 2:00 pm – “SAT/ACT Combo Practice Test” Tuesday, October 13 – 6:30 to 8:00 pm – “Accepted: Getting into the college of your choice” Tuesday, November 10 – 6:30 to 8:00 pm – “Financial Aid Workshop” The programs are free but registration is required. Sign up at www.kaptest.com, put in your zip code and locate the workshop you wish to attend. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about this program.
Home Country Slim Randles There is in the splashing of the creek a great spray of diamonds. As each youngster sails like an astronaut out on the tire swing, then releases the hold on the earth to flail, suspended in time and space for that brief second or two, there is a timelessness, a postponement of all things evil and destructive, an affirmation of joy. The swimming hole in Lewis Creek has been there since Indian times, of course, and the tire swing was probably preceded by simply a rope with knots in it. It is one of the summer lodestones of our existence. Each summer we have to make our pilgrimage in the hot sun to the hole below the little waterfall, to the place were Lewis Creek widens and deepens for the benefit of hot, dry people before becoming just a creek again. And in this widening of the creek, this sacred place in our summer lives, we also play witness to the passage of years. Across the creek from the tree with the tire swing, the gravelly bottom extends gently with almost no current for ten feet or so. This is the baby beach, where squealing tots are allowed to cool off without benefit (or hindrance) of any more covering than the smiles of their parents. As the children grow, they venture farther out into the current of the creek and test their strength against the forces of nature. By the time a youngster is eight or ten, the seduction of the tire swing becomes overwhelming and the flailing of the arms and legs against the blue of the sky begin. Later still, when gangliness becomes fluidity and sleekness, and we want to make catlike moves to attract the opposite sex, the tire is used as a swinging platform for exquisite dives into the deep part of the creek where the big trout lie in cold holes. And as we age, and we watch our children come to love the hole in Lewis Creek, and as we sip lemonade in the shade as our grandchildren work their ways up the swimming hole chain of life, we can look at the splashing of the creek and see, with each sleek dive, with each laughing bellyflop, the diamonds of the creek sent skyward, and the laughter stays with us and keeps us strong and makes us feel rich, and fortunate. It is unnecessary to say the hole in Lewis Creek is an important part of our lives, because it, along with so many other treasures of the years, really is our lives. ------------Brought to you by "Ol' Slim's Views from the Porch," available at www.slimrandles.com.
Osterman Community Foundation Golf Classic The Osterman Community Foundation (OCF) is hosting its 5th Annual OCF Charity Golf Classic. The event will be held on Wednesday, September 16, at the Tradition Golf Course in Wallingford, CT. The cost is $160 per person. The day includes 18 holes of golf with cart, on-course refreshments, $10,000 hole in one contest (50/50 split), raffle, barbeque luncheon, other contests, gift bag and buffet dinner reception. There are also several sponsor levels available including: golf cart sponsor for $50, hole sponsor for $200, beverage cart sponsor for $600 and Platinum sponsorships for $5,000. All sponsorships include your name displayed on a sign or banner. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the OCF. The OCF is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial relief to qualified individuals, families or groups in our communities. The OCF has made it a goal to seek out opportunities to help such people when they had no reason to expect our assistance. Because of your support the OCF is able to make a difference and provide hope. During this year we provided assistance with food, heating oil, utilities, child care, rent, medical bills, auto repairs, etc. We provided this help to people facing a multitude of hardships - medical conditions, loss of work, added family responsibilities, home fires, and single parent situations. For example we paid rent and car expense for a Mom with 3 kids, who was hit by a drunk driver, endured many severe medical problems (over 30 surgeries and MRSA virus) and is now permanently disabled. This family has struggled financially, losing their home and car. We purchased hearing aids for an 8 year old boy. He lost his hearing from
Going to College?
the medication needed in conjunction with his 4 open heart surgeries necessary to save his life from congenital heart disease. The family struggled financially from all medical bills and insurance covered only 25% of the $8,000 cost. We paid rent and security deposit for a young family previously living in a rodent and bug infested apartment. This family has been struggling to provide a better life for their 2 year old daughter. They are both in school completing their GED and working low paying jobs. We purchased a laptop for a high school boy who over the past year was diagnosed with a brain tumor and endured 7 surgeries. Upon returning to school, he was in a car accident and severely injured. He had to be hospitalized and sent to a rehabilitation center. His doctors recommended a laptop to aid in his rehab. His family could not afford one due to overwhelming medical bills. Please help us continue to make a difference and be a part of a growing tradition. If you would like to play golf or be a sponsor, contact Darlene Stickney at the Osterman Community Foundation at 203-272-2233 or e-mail dstickney@osterman-co.com.
AUGUST The flowers cannot celebrate. They tell me that August is coming, With her hot breath
And lusty dance, With stamping, trampling feet Not far behind, Freezing in place, Filling her footsteps. Pauli Gravel
"Rhine Discovery" - River Cruise - October 4-12 7 nights on the deluxe river vessel "River Countess" Discovering the rich heritage of the Main & Rhine Rivers From Nuremberg to Basel.Visiting Bamberg, Wurzburg, Miltenberg, Aschaffenburg, Rudesheim, Heidelberg, Strasbourg. Includes all meals, complementary wines with dinner, shore excursions, use of bicycles , transfers. Offered by King Travelways together with UConn Huskees' Alumni Call for brochure: 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com
OPEN FULL TIME! Wood, Pellet & Free Standing Stoves are our specialty! We also offer Replacement Glass, Piping, Gasketing and More! STOP DOWN TODAY!
Are you a Wallingford Resident headed To College?
Remember to apply for your Absentee Ballot for the upcoming Municipal Election! Waiting until the last minute may result in your vote not counting! Come into the Wallingford Town Clerk’s Office to apply. We are located in the Wallingford Town Hall, Room 108, 45 South Main Street. Call 203.294.2145
Open Day
Open Day The Quinnipiac Valley Audubon Society, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, will sponsor an Open Day at Riverbound Farm, 1881 Cheshire St in Cheshire on Sunday, September 20th. The Nature Center will be open 11:00 to 4:00. Activities will include a self guided tour that includes the nature center, grounds, and the one mile trail through Riverbound Farm’s 23 acres of varied habitats. Pick up your Activity Sheet before the tour. The program is free, however, donations are accepted. For information: Call Loretta at 203-634-1911 Photo by Ellie Tessmer of redbellied woodpecker at feeder.
Page 23 August 2009
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at www.wlfdseniorctr.com INTERGENERATIONAL SUMMER CAMP AT CAMP WSC Three activities have been planned for members and their grandchildren/ great-grand-children at Camp WSC! Pre-registration is required for each activity, and members without grandchildren are welcome to sign up too! (1) Summer Craft Fun Monday, August 10, 1:00 - 2:30 PM Come create a cool sun craft! Our large wooden sun will be painted with bright colors and designs. We'll use decorative papers and learn some paper sculpture tricks, too! Then we'll add wire and beads to make him shine. Our instructor is Kim Larkin. The fee is $7.00 per craft project. Pre-registration is required. (2) Father Goose's Tales by Nappy's Puppets Wednesday, August 12, 1:00 PM There's trouble when Mother Goose is away for the day and Father Goose has to take care of all her chores, including the storytelling. But try as he might he just can't seem to get those stories right. Father Goose's Tales is an amusing, modern re-telling of rhymes, stories and children's songs designed to entertain the whole family. Please sign up. (3) Make a Summer Mobile! Monday, August 17, 1:00 - 2:30 PM Under the guidance of Kim Larkin, create a summer mobile made up of fun summer shapes! Fish, beach balls, ice cream cones, and more will be painted and hung on our mobiles. Sports fans can add soccer balls, baseballs, etc. to your mobiles, too. Ribbon, beads and more will decorate this summer project. The fee is $7.00 per craft project. Preregistration required. LEARN HOW TO FENG SHUI YOUR SPACE! Tuesday, August 18, 10:00 AM Feng Shui (pronounced fungshway) is an ancient art and science that reveals how to balance the energies of any given space to assure the health and good fortune of the people inhabiting the space. Come learn how Feng Shui can bring more harmony into your life and your home. This program, presented by Krista Polinsky, CFSP, is sponsored by The Regency House of Wallingford. STARS PROGRAM (Seniors Together Achieve Results Successfully) Wednesday, August 5, 10:00 AM We are looking for enthusiastic members who would like to share their talents, skills, ideas and leadership abilities. Your participation is important in order to be able to continue to offer high caliber programs and activities of interest to our members. If you are interested in learning more about the STARS Program, please join us for our first meeting on August 5. COMEDY CENTRAL AND KARAOKE NIGHT August 27, 6:00 - 8:00 PM The Great Room will be filled with the sound of laughter and music as local talent takes center stage at Lake View Cabaret's Comedy Central and Karaoke Night. Tell a joke, funny story or sing a song - this is your opportunity to shine! Please sign up in advance if you want to be part of the show! AGING: WHAT TO EXPECT Thursday, August 20, 10:00 AM Aging is a process! Sister Suzanne Gross, FSE, Administrator, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care, will present an interesting and refreshing synopsis of "aging" as an attitude and a journey of life on August 20, at 10:00 AM. Her presentation will address the medical, psychological, physical and spiritual needs of the aging person. Marie Laffin, RN, Clinical Director, will share community resources and services available to seniors. Coffee and homemade Franciscan rolls or bread will be provided. Please sign up if you plan to attend. RESUME WRITING AND UPDATING Thursday, August 6, 6:00 - 7:00 PM Looking for a new career or a part time job? Experts say your résumé has only eight seconds to catch an employer's attention. Jill Ferrall, Assistant Dean, Career Services at Quinnipiac University will show you how to prepare and update a résumé that gets noticed. Please bring a copy of your current résumé if you have one. Sign-up is required. LIVING WILLS AND TRUSTS August 6, 7:30 - 8:30 PM Daniel Tully, Esq. is an elder law attorney who understands the need for support and accurate information when planning for the future. Attorney Tully's presentation on Living Wills and Living Trusts will help you with any concerns and questions you may have. Please sign up at front desk. SENIOR OUTING at HOLIDAY HILL Monday, August 24, 2009 The 25th Annual Statewide Senior Outing at Holiday Hill in Cheshire will be held August 24, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The event offers abundant food and fun, musical entertainment by Vinnie Carr, bingo, raffles, heated pools, bocce, and mini-golf. Tickets are $27.00 per person. The last day to order tickets through the Senior Center is August 4. Transportation is not included. SOCIAL SERVICES IN ORDER TO SERVE YOU BETTER, PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE SOCIAL WORKER, EILEEN FLYNN, AT 265 7753. THANK YOU. VETERANS SERVICES Tuesday, August 25, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford, will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753. BENEFITS SCREENING Tuesday, August 18, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting Documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment: 1. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses not covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Registration required. Call now 265 7753 to schedule an appointment. MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income and asset guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium of $96.40. The guidelines for this year are as follows: INCOME Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) Single $1,181.00 Couple $1,771.00
ASSETS $4,000.00 $6,000.00
Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Single $1,361.50 $4,000.00 Couple $2,014.00 $6,000.00 Additional Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (ALMB/QI) Single $1,497.05 No Cap Couple $2,196.25 No Cap If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay the $96.40 premium. Please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753 to schedule an appointment or to receive additional information. ConnPACE ConnPACE is the State of Connecticut Pharmaceutical Program and the guidelines change each year. The Income Limit for 2009 is: Single person $25,100.00 year, Couple Income $33,800.00. This includes all forms of income, such as Social Security, Pension, Interest or dividend income, etc. There is no asset limit at this time. For additional information or an appointment, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753 FOOD STAMP PROGRAM (SNAP) The State Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (formerly the Food Stamp Program) has changed its eligibility criteria effective July 1, 2009. Income limits have been increased and there is no asset limit when applying for this program. oSingle Income: $1670.00 month oCouple Income: $2247.00 month For more information or to schedule an appointment to apply for this program, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at 265 7753. DO YOU RECEIVE A PENSION? IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT PENSION WITHHOLDING Pensioners do not qualify for the Making Work Pay Credit unless they have earned income. However, the new withholding tables apply to all taxpayers, including pensioners. The withholding tables decreased Federal Tax withhold-
ings on pensions, too. If you receive a pension, you may want to contact your accountant, tax preparer, go to your local IRS Office or use the IRS.Gov for help. The IRS has a withholding calculator that pensioners and others can use to make sure enough tax is being withheld from their pay. ASK AN ATTORNEY Thursday, August 13, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Appointments are available to get free legal advice from Attorney Daniel Tully. Please call 265 7753 to reserve your appointment. LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP NO SUPPORT GROUP MEETING IN AUGUST. HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!
The submission deadline for the September issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is August 25th. Email your stories, news, celebrations and photos to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Sign up to be a subscriber at www.peoplespressnews.com for updates, reminders and special offers.
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Page 24 August 2009
Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals Dear Readers, Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advice from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue. - June and Flora Dear Housewives, My cousin is running for local office in another town. He asked me to help him with his campaign. It is not so much the travel between cities as much as the political differences. I do not talk politics with him too much but am at the opposite end of the spectrum. How can I politely decline? Elephant VS. Donkey in CT FLORA: You can say to your cousin that you are happy for trying to make a difference in society but that you align yourself with the other party. Offer to help watch the children when he has dinners to attend with his wife or in another way without compromising your belief system. You can support and help your cousin without making calls or holding up signs. JUNE: I actually agree with Flora on this one. If you don't want to say you are for the other side you can simply say you are too busy to give extra time and wish him luck. Dear Housewives, Both of my children are begging me to play sports. Problem is I recently lost my job and can only afford for one to play, how should I handle this? Soccer dad in Meriden JUNE: Dear soccer dad, you could tell one they can play in the fall and one in the spring. That will break up the amount you will have to come up with all at once. Kids sports are really expensive, especially when there are yearly membership fees and equipment to buy. You can look for used equipment at stores and consignment shops but there isn't a way around membership fees unless you can find leagues that don't require them. And, if you can't pick who plays first--go oldest to youngest. FLORA: My my, we are seeing eye to eye this month. Great suggestion June! Another option is to say "not this year kids". We must remember that we have to pay the essential bills and that any 'extras' may be on hold. Losing your job is difficult and if putting your kids in organized sports will break the bank, you may resent it. Play catch at a field with the neighborhood kids (not every child is on a local team), organize weekly kick ball games or play basketball at the park. There's a lot of free fun out there; get creative.
WE BELIEVE…… By Bonnie Kent This is the theme for the 2010 National LCMS Youth Gathering to be held in New Orleans in August. We all know that middle and especially high school brings new challenges, opportunity and experiences to our young people and these experiences help them become our next generation to have children and to make this world a better place for all. Yet many of our youth choose the most difficult path of drugs, crimes and don't have the support that they need from their peer and adult around them. This is where a youth's religion can play an important role for them and the decision that they make. If they chose their god and their church will walk every stop with them through these years of learning and choosing who they are and what they are going to accomplish in our society. Today youth groups are about real relationships, community responsibility and making a true difference in the lives of others. On Tuesday, August 18th the Zion Lutheran Youth will be holding a fundraiser at Friendly's in Wallingford from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to raise money to attend this gathering of youth to experience that there are other young people just like them who choose to follow the path of their religion. Please come and support this great group of kids bring this article or a flyer or mention this ad to the Youth Hostess and be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to a restaurant, or movie tickets or …….. We hope to see you there!!!!!
Gardners Market
"music on the Patio" Last year's "music on the Patio" series is back and better than ever. Originally sponsored by the Sandman Gallery, this year Steve is proud to share that honor with Paul Dominello's Courtyard Café. Still being presented outside on the patio at 39 W. Main St. in the heart of downtown Meriden you'll now be able feast from a select menu while listening to the same great music that the Gallery has provided in the past. As you get to enjoy what the new downtown has to offer, dine at the café and enjoy good desserts and coffee or cold drinks while sitting and talking with good friends while listening to your old favorites live outdoors. And then browse our gallery located indoors at one of Meriden's architectural jewels. Art, music, good food and good friends, this is a recipe for a good time on a Friday night in downtown Meriden. When you read this the summer series will have already started with the music of Top of The Keys presented on July 31st. If you didn't get a chance to come on down, you missed a great time. Music from the 50s and up was on tap with vocals and acoustic accompaniment with Congo percussion back-up. Since the music will be presented every other Friday during the summer, the next event will happen on August 14th From 7-9 that Friday. Food of course will be available earlier to provide you with ample time to relax and eat either before or during the entertainment. August 14th we will present the always popular "Carlos and Roy" A couple of Meriden's own. Featuring covers and dynamite acoustic backed-up by smooth and sometimes off the wall electrical guitar work by Roy" the rocket" Roccapriori. Carlos Gonzalez, a local musician and fireman never fails to stoke the fire with his music and talent on a variety of acoustic instruments. August 28th and September 11th will feature "East Chicago Joe" and the other date "Jazz the Ripper". We just don't know at this time who will play which date. Either way it's a don't miss. East Chicago Joe croons swing tunes made popular by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennet. And when it comes to Jazz, well…..Fred Marino on organ, Bill Schaefer of Sax and a drummer to be named later will have you begging for more. If you've never heard live jazz. This is an opportunity to get the full experience and more….much more. When we know the exact date of these performances we will keep you informed or you can call either Paul at "Paul's Courtyard Café 238-2328" or Steve at "The Sandman Gallery 686-0000". And as always the entertainment is free and parking is easy and free in the parking garage located in the rear of the café. Look for future music listings in your hometown monthly edition of The Peoples Press. To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our September issue is August 25th.
CELEBRATIONS
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Deadline for our next issue is August 25th.
New Produce Vendors/Food Vendors The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2009 Gardener’s Market Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 to Sept 12th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, baked items, food, crafts, artisans and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic from Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and UCONN Master Gardeners are available. Check out www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for detailed information. New this year is the Gambardella’s Wholesale Fish Market with fresh seafood. Food Vendors: The Golitkos will be having breakfast sandwiches. Dan Sintea will have his Hot Dog Cart. Baked Goods by Mary Ann Simmons, Bettina Vossbrinck, Roberta Whalen, Goldilocks Deli and Bishop’s Orchard. Coffee and Tea by Coffee And.Treats for Pets: Nancy Eddy and Anita Cioffi with cat items, Rebecca Kahl and Dan Sintea with dog Treats. Health Items: Susan Haag and Dell Angelo with herbal soaps and notions. Entertainment by the Wallingford Brass Quintet will be from the Gazebo. Photo by Liz Landow of Mary Ann Simmons’ preserves.
Page 25 August 2009
Parents - What's in Your Kid's Back To School Lunchbox? It's hard to believe that it's almost time to go back-to-school! Parents, even though the 09-10 school year is still a couple of weeks away, now is the time to start thinking about and planning healthy, nutritious, easy brown bag school lunches. The Meriden Health Department offers these lunch suggestions that will give kids the energy and brain-power they need to make it through the school day:
The submission deadline for the September issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is August 25th. Email your stories, news, celebrations and photos to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Sign up to be a subscriber at www.peoplespressnews.com for updates, reminders and special offers. There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart. ~Celia Thaxter You Can Help!
If you child gets lunch at school, go over the weekly cafeteria menu with them and talk about choosing healthy food items. Encourage kids to choose cafeteria meals that include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Also, they should avoid fried foods when possible and choose low-fat milk or water as a drink. Chips, cookies, and ice cream are ok every once in a while, but should not be eaten at lunch time. Eating healthy foods will give them the energy to finish the rest of the school day and enjoy after-school activities. By planning ahead, you can make this school year the healthiest one yet. Visit the Meriden Health Department website at www.meridenhealth.com for a brochure listing healthy lunch choices and back-to-school food safety tips. You can also call the Community Health Education office at 630-4238 for a copy of the brochure and other nutrition education materials.
Connecticut Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Program Income Eligibility for April 1, 2009 - June 30, 2010 The Connecticut Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program has posted their 2009-2010 Income Eligibility Guidelines. WIC is the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. WIC provides education and healthy foods to eligible participants.
Income eligibility is based on Health and Human Services Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, a family of four can make up to $40,793 gross income (before taxes) a year to be income eligible for WIC services. For more information on the WIC program, please contact the Meriden WIC office at 630-4245, or visit www.meridenhealth.com.
Meriden Movers Community Walking Program The Meriden Health Department, as part of the Meriden Movers Community Walking Program, will be distributing free pedometers, walking logs, and educational materials at the Quinnipiac River Linear Trail on the following days (weather permitting): Tuesday, September 8, from 5:00-6:00pm Thursday, September 10, from 5:00-6:00pm Tuesday, September 15, from 5:00-6:00pm Thursday, September 17, from 5:00-6:00pm The Linear Trail is located at the corner of Oregon Road and Rt. 70 in South Meriden. The Health Department encourages all Meriden residents, regardless of age and physical fitness level, to walk for better health. On days of distribution the Community Health Educator will be on hand to answer your questions and show you how to use your pedometer. Please call Lea at 630-4238 if you have any questions. We'll see you at the trail! Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time. ~John Lubbock
Friends of Feral Cheshire Cats (FFCC) was born over a cup over coffee in March of 2006. It was started by two people with a passion for cats and a desire to help end feral cat over-population. The mission was simple improve the lives of feral cats through humane population control. Since its inception, FFCC has sterilized close to 1,200 cats and has placed hundreds of cats and kittens into permanent, loving homes. Feral cats are unsocialized cats. They can be found in commercial areas, industrial areas, residential areas - just about everywhere. Feral cats are descendants of abandoned or unaltered pets and exist because of man's irresponsibility or neglect. In most cases, feral cats are not completely wild because they still depend on people for their food source, whether it's a caretaker who comes by once or twice a day, a dumpster outside a restaurant, garbage cans, or the like. Relatively few feral cats subsist only by hunting. It's important to recognize that if a cat is truly feral, then the most compassionate choice might be to allow them to live outdoors. Trying to domesticate them would be no different than trying to make a squirrel or a raccoon a household companion - you might succeed somewhat, but never fully and only with a great deal of time and patience. Moreover, you would not be permitting the animal to live in a manner that suits him best. Many wellmeaning people, convinced they are "saving" a feral cat by bringing him indoors, end up condemning the poor creature to a life of hiding under the bed and being in constant fear. The best course of action is Trap-NeuterReturn (TNR). FFCC is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that provides a TNR program for the Cheshire area. TNR is a full management plan in which feral cats are humanely trapped, evaluated, vaccinated for distemper and rabies, and sterilized by veterinarians. These cats are ear-tipped to indicate that they have been sterilized and are returned to their familiar habitat and are provided with long-term care by volunteers. Returning cats to their familiar habitat is the best course of action. Removing these cats would allow unsterilized, un-vaccinated cats to move into the area to take advantage of the food source that attracted the original cats. These cats pose no threat to humans. Whether you love cats or claim to hate them, TNR is the only proven cost-effective and humane solution to the problem. In addition to providing TNR, Friends of Feral Cheshire Cats: Educates the public, including school children and scout troops, about feral cats and humane population control. Strives to transform feral or street cats into healthy, sterilized and vaccinated cats living in managed colonies. Gives new hope to feral cats, who without TNR would have to brave the elements, face starvation, continue to reproduce and sometimes bear the brunt of human cruelty. Supports efforts of grassroots feral cat caregivers in Cheshire and the surrounding area with training, equipment and funding whenever possible. Encourages property owners to assist with cats on their property with their help. Reduces the number of feral cats on the streets and killed in shelters due to humane population control rather than euthanasia. Although FFCC does not operate a shelter, it has a small network of foster homes that provides temporary care for friendly cats and kittens. The cats in these homes are socialized and ready for adoption. When no foster space is available, FFCC will work with the person, whenever possible, who finds a cat or litter of kittens to provide vet care and seek permanent homes. Among the kittens currently available for adoption is PJ. PJ was rescued in Wallingford by a feral cat caretaker supported by FFCC. PJ had a rare medical condition that required a costly procedure to save his life. The cost of the procedure was equal to what it would have to cost to spay or neuter 35 cats, but FFCC did not hesitate to save this special boy. PJ is now ready for adoption. Although he is fine, there is a chance that he may need another procedure as he matures into a full-grown cat. FFCC plans to assist his new family if that happens and would like to ask the public to make a donation to cover the past procedure, assist with a future procedure, help another special needs cat, or help fund the TNR program. Tax-deductible donations may be sent to Friends of Feral Cheshire Cats, P.O. Box 946, Cheshire, CT 06410. For more information about FFCC, or to see the cats and kittens available for adoption, please visit www.friendsofferalcheshirecats.org.
Page 26 August 2009
Picnic Time
* 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
Celebrate with a New Years Gala in Bermuda KING TRAVELWAYS hasn’t been to Bermuda for New Year’s for quite some time - and it’s time to re-think Bermuda. We will celebrate our New Year’s Eve Gala in the famous full service resort the “Grotto Bay.” It’s not just about New Years though. Enjoy everything Bermuda has to offer too. Dec. 29, 2009 - Jan. 2, 2010 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com
(a children's story)
by Dorothy Gonick Chris and Leah, three-year old twins trudged up the hill with their mom and plopped down with a sigh of relief, for the climb had been tiring. Mom reached into her basket and gave each a refreshing bottle of water, then sat down to join them on the blanket. Daisies were blooming nearby and an orange butterfly alighted on one. Quietly they watched it as it sipped nectar and spread its wings to alight on another daisy. Birds were singing in the nearby tree and Chris spotted a sparrow on a leafy branch. "Let's be very quiet and see how many creatures we see," suggested Leah. "I'll keep track of them" said Mom as she took out a pad of paper. "Let's see; daisies, butterfly, sparrow, and tree. "I see lots of dandelions" said Chris, "but there's a yellow flower I haven't seen, what is it Mom?" "That's a yellow buttercup and if you hold one under your chin, it will show yellow and means you like butter. "We've done that with dandelions, too" remembered Leah. "I see a violet--I know what they look like" said Leah. "Ouch, something bit me!" "That's a mosquito Leah. Their buzzing will let you know to watch out for them" Mom reminded them as she put a cold cloth over the sting. "Something is crawling on the corner of our blanket, Mom, what is it?" "It's just an ant and they love to come to picnics, but we don't need them today, do we?" Mom was kept busy listing each plant and creature on her pad of paper. The twins were eager to explore nearby and soon spied a skinny green caterpillar hanging from a leaf swaying in the breeze, and watched it climb up its wispy thread to nibble on the leaf again. They had a hard time imagining that the caterpillar would someday turn into a lovely butterfly. Leah stumbled over a dead stump and wondered what kind of plants were growing there. Mom told them that they were mushrooms; lovely to look, but not to pick them as some could make you sick. Chirping was heard from among the grasses, and crickets were soon sighted hopping among the leaves. Mom told them that the chirps were made by crickets rubbing their legs together and the twins laughed at that. "What a funny way to talk" giggled Chris, "Shall we try it Leah?" After more giggles, they hurried toward their blanket for lunch. "Mmmm, peanut butter and jelly! Our favorite and lemonade to drink! Thanks Mom," "Hey look, there's an ant, and another and another-can we put some crumbs out for them to eat Mom?" "O.K. but put them in a trail to the edge and see if they follow your trail." "Wow, Mom, what a long list of things we can tell Dad about tonight. He'll be surprised won't he? Maybe he can come along next Saturday and we'll show them to him." "Let's play 'Jack and Jill' on the way home, Leah," Chris challenged as he began running down the hill.
Civitan Club Golf Classic The 11th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 12th 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, $1500 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. Make checks payable to M/W Civitan Club with entry form no later than August 1st. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685.
Community Health Survey is Underway The Wallingford Health Department would like to remind all residents that we are currently conducting a brief telephone survey. Your name will not be asked or associated with any of the responses. The survey will help us determine what the health needs are so that future health promotion and prevention programs can be developed. We need your help. Please answer the survey if your phone number is called. You will be given your choice of a FREE educational book, for your cooperation. For more information please call Wallingford Health Department, located in Town Hall, rm. 215 at 294-2065.
Franciscan Golf Classic This edition of “The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your Views” serves the needs of the communities of Wallingford and Meriden, Connecticut. For safety reasons we do not publish the last name of artists/writers under the age of 15. 5% of all annual net proceeds are donated in kind or in financial donation to local charities and organizations. This newspaper is not affiliated with any other newspaper.
Publishers:
Andrew& Dawn Reynolds peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com Managing Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Copy Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Advertising Andy Reynolds andy@peoplespressnews.com Web Site Web Solutions, LLC Writers YOU WRITE IT....WE PRINT IT!!!
“The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your Views” publications are published by: DNA, LLC P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com www.peoplespressnews.com • Phone (203) 235-9333 Advertising (203) 235-9333 • Fax Number (203) 294.8808 The People's Press,Your Town, Your News, Your Views and all versions or portions of said name are ©Copyright DNA,LLC. 1999-2009 All Text, Logos, Images and other content in print, web or in any way or form are ©Copyright DNA, LLC 1999-2009 All Rights Reserved The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher and DNA, LLC. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or submissions. All items contained herein, including advertisements or portions thereof, may not be reproduced in any way, shape or form without the written consent of the publisher. All submissions whether by mail, fax, email or any other means become the property of The People’s Press and DNA, LLC and may be used in any media it so chooses. By submitting to this paper you agree to these terms and release The People’s Press and DNA, LLC from any financial obligations or notifications for any future use of any of said submissions. The People’s Press will make every effort to see that all advertising copy is correctly printed. The publisher assumes no responsibility for typographical errors in advertising, advertising inadvertently left out; but will gladly reprint, without charge, that part of an advertisement is which any error may have occurred, provided that a claim is made within five days of publication. The publisher takes no responsibility for statements or claims made in any advertisement. Any copy or images designed or developed by The People’s Press are ©Copyright DNA,LLC and may not be used in any other medium. All Rights Reserved By advertising within The People’s Press, you agree to these terms.
Webster Bank presents the 14th Annual Franciscan Golf Classic to benefit the programs and services of the Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care. This fun-filled day will be held Monday, August 31, 2009, at Tunxis Plantation Country Club, Farmington. The cost to play is $195.00. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. To register or to be a sponsor, please contact Rosellyn Giampietro at 203-237-8084. For more information visit our web site at www.flcenter.org
Do you want FITNESS & FUN for your child? Call Us! Connecticut Gymnastics Academy in Wallingford is the place for your child! Find out why so many parents bring their kids here! Call 203.269.7464
WE OFFER: *Over 10,000 sq/ft of FUN *Classes for Ages 20 months to 18 *Boys and Girls Tumbling Classes *Tumbling Classes * Tumbling Classes for Cheerleaders *Birthday Parties/Private Lessons Call today for your free trial class. 203.269.7464
Sign up NOW for Fall Classes
Connecticut Gymnastics Academy 20 North Plains Ind. Rd. Unit 11 in Wallingford 203.269.7464
Page 27 August 2009
TOP THIS!
Way to GO!
SCREENED TOP SOIL * PROMPT DELIVERY * FARM QUALITY TOP SOIL * STONE FREE
Bobby Chenkus competed in the Rocky Mountain Challenge Jr. Enduro in Alton, New Hampshire on July 25th. He placed first in his class. Way to go Bobby!!!!!!!
Going To A Picnic or Get Together? Don’t Go Over Empty Handed!
SEPTIC SERVICE * SEPTIC TANK CLEANING * INSTALLATION & REPAIR * SEWER CONNECTIONS
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED 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.
203.269.0135 324 High Hill Road * Wallingford
Bring a basket of Marianna’s Famous Cookies and satisfy their cookie craving!
25% OFF All Custom Framing Applies to complete frame job only. No limit.
Hours: Tues-Fri. 7-6; Sat. 7-4; Sun. 7-2 Closed Mondays 238-0159 • 212 West Main Street, Meriden
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10am - 6pm * Sat. 10am - 3pm * Call for Sun. hours. *With this coupon. Must present coupon at time of booking only. Not valid with work in progress. Can not be combined with any other offers. Offer expires 9/05/09
Expires 8/31/09
Page 28 August 2009
MERIDEN FEED FARM • GARDEN • PET SUPPLIES
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CANIDAE ALS ORIGINAL 35LB
TASTE of the WILD 15LB PACIFIC STREAM OR HIGH PRAIRIE
CALIFORNIA NATURAL ADULT LAMB & RICE 30LB
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The Gold Wash
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Regular Price - $14.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash, Wheel Brite, Sealer Wax, Triple Foam and Towel Dry
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$35.99 IAMS 44LB BAGS Chunks, MiniChunks, Wt Control
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 8/31/09
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Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 8/31/09
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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 8/31/09
The Wheel Deal
$16.99 SONGMAKER WILD BIRD SEED OR BLACK OIL 40LB WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 8/31/09
$9.99
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THISTLE SEED 10LB BAG
CEDAR MULCH 3CF RED/BLACK $4.49 3CF
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 8/31/09
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Interior-Exterior Detail
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846 Old Colony Rd., Meriden 237-4414
Bumper to Bumper Detail
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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 8/31/09