The People's Press January 2011

LocalMotion!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Wallingford Flower & Gift Shoppe

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January 2011 • Volume 11, Issue 136

190 Center Street. 203.265.1514

THE PEOPLE’S PRESS Page 2 January 2011

FUNERAL TAKES US TO SNOWY MAINE

By Phyllis S. Donovan The week between Christmas and New Year's is probably my favorite time of the entire year. After the hectic bustle leading up to Christmas, it's a special gift to be able to finally just relax, revive and rally my energy before the new year bursts full tilt upon the scene.

This year, however, my "quiet week" was not to happen. In its stead, we enjoyed a quite won­ derful experience. Earlier in December, one of my husband's close fraternity brothers from UMass, Edwin (Skip) White, passed away. This remarkable and giving man had been a longtime scoutmas­ ter with the Stratford, CT Boy Scouts earning scouting's cherished Silver Beaver Award for his many years of service.

After retiring, he and his wife had a log house built in Lovell, Maine, some miles northeast of North Conway, New Hampshire. A lively and energetic man, he finished off the inside of the house himself, cut down trees on his extensive property, planted a small orchard and maintained a huge garden in spite of seasonal swarms of black flies and marauding deer.

He loved to cook and can, always bringing jars of his specialty, "Grandma's Relish," to share at fraternity get-togethers. He sought out and joined Lovell's small United Church of Christ, partici­ pating in Bible studies, working on church suppers and soup kitchens, and adding his rich tenor voice to the choir.

His funeral was set for December 29 and my husband was determined to attend, even though, except for skiers, most people wouldn't choose to drive up to the wilds of Maine in the dead of winter. Two days after our post-Christmas "blizzard" found us on the road heading north.

We spent the first night with our son's family in Shrewsbury, MA, north of Worcester to get an early start for Maine the next day as the funeral service was scheduled for 1 p.m.. The day of the funeral dawned bright and cold. Our daughter-in-law packed us a lunch for the road. We were pleased to be able to breeze through the usually backed up New Hampshire tolls at 60 mph in the fast pass lane and arrived in Maine early enough to check into the bed and breakfast inn where we'd reserved a room for the night before going to the church.

My husband had made reservations at the Oxford House Inn on the internet and we found the big old yellow frame house on the Main Street in Fryeburg definitely to our liking. Owner Natalie Spak, a young woman formerly from Salisbury, CT who runs the place with her chef-husband Jonathan, showed us to our spacious room which overlooked an expansive field and small tree farm with the Presidential Range of the White Mountains rising up beyond. Mount Washington was pure white with snow and sparkled in the sunshine. Down in the field, a couple with a large frisk­ ing dog were making tracks across the pristine snow, looking exactly like a Christmas card. But

we had a funeral to attend so we headed north. Our GPS led us right to the small church on the main road in Center Lovell, not far from Lake Kezar near where Stephen King was hit by a pickup truck several years ago while walking along that same road.

Lots of people were entering the church through the side door which led to the downstairs kitchen and dining room where the family was receiving guests. While respects were being paid, the church ladies kept bringing in their homemade covered dishes, stuffed sandwiches, salads and desserts for the reception which would be held later. Then those same ladies (and men) went into a back room, donned green robes and became members of the choir which would sing at the service in the pretty, bright church proper upstairs.

Our friend had planned his own funeral with familiar readings and hymns and during remarks and reminiscences by family and friends, my husband spoke on behalf of the fraternity brothers who couldn't be there, playing excerpts of Robert Frost reading his own poems "Birches" and "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Bridgeport area State Representative Chris Caruso also spoke about our friend's dedication to scouting. Caruso and three other scout leaders from the Stratford, CT area made the 12-hour round trip up to Maine and back that day to honor their former colleague in scouting, an impressive gesture.

Following the funeral and reception, we crossed over into New Hampshire and visited places where my husband had worked summers when he was still in college. Jackson, NH and the Wildcat River figure largely among his fondest memories.

It was dark by the time we returned to the inn and were greeted by their two big friendly dogs, a black lab and an enormous male malamute. The nice part about staying at a chef-owned bed and breakfast is that the meals are extra special, creative and delicious, and you have only to come downstairs to indulge in them. Jonathan outdid himself in preparing a fresh mushroom soup driz­ zled with a hot pepper cream sauce and a perfect rare filet mignon. Even the chocolate ice cream and ginger peach sorbet we finished with were made on the premises.

Next morning, we enjoyed an enormous breakfast in the inn's breakfast room with an entire wall of windows looking out toward the mountains. Outside the windows, birds came to the feeders and a bird book was placed conveniently on the sill for identifying the feathered visitors. We had lucked out with another crystal clear cold sunny day and the two house dogs were making the most of it romping around the inn's back yard.

Reluctantly, we packed up and left early for the trek home, taking the Kangamangus Highway west out of Conway. Some of the roadside rest areas were plowed out so we could stop off and look back on those glorious snow-covered mountains. From Lincoln the road west was slushy but

Every Day is a Learning Day! Get the FACTS!!!

Learn to Prevent Childhood Lead Poisoning The Wallingford Health Department will be contacting ALL medical providers in the Wallingford area to provide "Grand Rounds" Why? injest Lead Prevention regulations have changed; Childhood lead screening requirements have changed; PREVENTION REMAINS THE SAME * We will provide in-office updated information * A resource directory for parents * Activity books for children No fee is charged; all that is required is your professional attention.

Contact the Wallingford Health Dept at 203-294-2065

no problem during the day when things were melting, and once we got to I-91 it was a straight shot home.

If the weather was bad, we would have never attempt­ ed this trip in winter but as it was, we couldn't have had two more gorgeous winter days to travel. Looking back on it, we continue to thank God and our friend Skip for one of the pleasantest winter journeys we've had in a long while.

HUBAY GYPSY ORCHESTRA The Hungarian Community Club is very excited to be hosting the HUBAY GYPSY ORCHESTRA on Sunday February 6, at 4:00 pm. This renowed 4 member band, in their only Connecticut appearance, will be playing popular selections from Hubay, Brahms, Liszt and Kodaly. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non­ members. For more information and reservations, please contact Linda (203-634-0602) or Louie (203-530­ 3557). Desserts and beverages will be available during the concert. The club is located at 147 Ward St., Wallingford, CT.

February Vacation: Be Water Safe Program At The Wallingford Family YMCA This program is designed for those children ages 3 thru 8 years of age who are non-swimmers(Pike, Eel, and Polliwog Levels) who wish to receive swim instruction during school vacation. Feb. 21 thru Feb. 25th… PreRegistration is required. For more information please contact Lisa Hoover, Director of Aquatics at lhoover@wallingfordymca.org or (203) 269-4497; ext..20

Take A Motor Coach Trip With The Wallingford Family YMCA January 21-23: Atlantic City Weekend at the Hilton February 12th: Newport Winter Festival February 13th: Mohegan Sun February 26-27: UCONN Women's Basketball vs.

Georgetown March 12: New York City Food & Market Tour March 17th: Mohegan Sun March 17 & 19: The Boston Flower & Garden Show March 27-28: Atlantic City at the Hilton.

April 1-3rd: Washington DC; Cherry Blossom Time April 8 -10 Washington DC; Cherry Blossom Time April 16th: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island April 30th: New York City On Your Own. **Pre-Registration is required. For more information on these trips and future trips; please contact Lisa Hoover @ lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

EMAIL YOU VALENTINE GREETING

and Celebrations - Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com It's FREE to share any celebration in The People's Press.

The deadline for our Februay 2011 issue is February 4th.

Page 3 January 2011

The Wallingford Rotary - January 2011

Mayor's Corner - Wallingford

It is always a surprise to hear that people STILL do not know what Rotary is, or what they do.

Rotary clubs are located all over the world. The purpose of the organiza­ tion is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humani­ tarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. It is open to all persons regardless of race, creed, gender or political preference. There are approximately 34,000 clubs and over l.22 million members worldwide. Members of Rotary Clubs are known as Rotarians, and meet weekly for a meeting, which is a social event as well as an opportunity to work on their service goals.

Rotary's best known motto is "Service above Self". Any Rotarian is wel­ come at any Rotary meeting worldwide. What a nice feeling. All members of Rotary are volunteers with the same common goals.

I can only speak for the Rotary Club of Wallingford, CT. In the past year we have provided Amber Alert service to many organizations. Through our fundraiser efforts we were able to team up with Liberty Bank and donate close to $12,000 to various worthy organizations such as the Community Thanksgiving Dinner, the Homeless Shelter, Chrysalis (the battered women's shelter), Holiday for Giving, Master's Manna, and the Wallingford Day Care.

The previous year we provided the ventilation stove hood for Master's Manna so that they could open their soup kitchen.

Our club sponsors a speaking contest for Middle School Students and High School Students. We also host a "student of the year" award for high school students from each high school, and a non Rotarian "citizen of the year" award. and a special luncheon to honor Veterans. Our club also is involved with providing bio sand filters in the Dominican Republic, and a generator for the Good Samaritan Hospital in La Romana, DR. For the first time this year, we had "Purple Pinky Day" in the middle and high schools. Each stu­ dent who donated $1 had their pinky painted purple and the money was donated to the "End Polio" fund. We also provide each 3rd grade student with a dictionary, and 5th grade students with a thesaurus. Each week we have a "guest speaker". On the agenda for future guest speakers is an astronaut!

If you are interested in learning more about our Rotary Club, visit out website, Rotary Club of Wallingford, CT. Patricia Coppola - Rotary Club of Wallingford, CT

Happy New Year! We hope 2011 will be happy, healthy and prosperous for everyone. With a New Year, of course, comes the question of New Year reso­ lutions, efforts to make the New Year in some way a better personal experi­ ence for the resolution maker. As the New Year advances, with the comple­ tion of each day, the passing of each hour, minute and second, there is no ability to change or modify what has already happened.

Once time has passed it is like a CD-Rom. These letters are treated like a word which means a disc with immense amounts of data (visual and audio information). The information can be read or printed, but it cannot be selec­ tively altered. Hence the name, Compact Disc with Read Only Memory.

Time is like that. Once a moment has passed, whatever happened, it cannot be changed. You can only be happy or regretful about it.

Resolutions, efforts to change, are the only way to assure yourself that mis­ takes will not be repeated. Have fun making a better life CD-Rom in 2011 than the 2010 version.

Happy New Year!

William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor

A New Year is like every other night; there is no pause in the march of the universe, no breathless moment of silence among created things that the passage of another twelve months may be noted; and yet no man has quite the same thoughts this evening that come with the coming of darkness on other nights. ~Hamilton Wright Mabie The Old Year has gone. Let the dead past bury its own dead. The New Year has taken possession of the clock of time. All hail the duties and possibilities of the coming twelve months! ~Edward Payson Powell

CELEBRATIONS

Mommy & Rachel enjoying 2011 1st Snow Storm

Happy New Year 2011

Happy New Year Laurie - may all your dreams come true!

Mayor's Corner - Meriden A spectacular grand opening christened the new downtown ice skating rink at the Hub and opened to the public on December 16. Professional skaters from the Newington Arena took to the ice and put on a dazzling display of figure skating, ice dancing, and speed skating. The new rink has been a big hit enjoyed by hundreds of skaters, young and old. The rink is open daily to the public, free of charge, from 9 AM to 10 PM. Bring your skates, come on down, and enjoy the rink!

The First Annual Benefit Hockey Game between the Meriden Police and Fire Departments will take place at the Hub rink on Saturday, January 29 from noon to 3 PM. This fundraiser will benefit Project Graduation, the alcohol/drug free all night party for graduating seniors from Maloney, Platt, and Wilcox Tech high schools. Following the hockey game, there will be a Winterfest for children and families featuring skating (skate rentals will be available), hayrides, entertainment, music, pizza from a wood fired stove, hot soup, and hot chocolate. Join us for a fun day and support Project Graduation.

Looking ahead, the Cole Brothers Circus is booked for June 27, 28, and 29 at the Hub for a return engagement after last year's successful venue. Put this fun filled event on your calendar.

We are looking forward to a positive and productive New Year for our community. Wishing all Meriden residents a happy and healthy New Year!

Warm Regards, Mike Rohde - Mayor An optimist stays up until midnight to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves. ~Bill Vaughan

Page 4 January 2011

Thank you from Holiday for Giving

CELEBRATIONS

Chamber President Featured in Early Childhood Display in Hartford An early childhood display at the State Capitol/Legislative Office Building concourse in Hartford featured Séan Moore, President of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce, promoting the importance of early childhood initiatives. Moore was joined in advocating for early childhood investment by other notables, including former NATO Supreme Commander Wesley Clark, Nobel Prize-winning economist James Heckman and Hartford Police Chief Daryl Roberts.

The display, sponsored by the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance, ran from January 3 through January 14.

The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance is a group of organizations and individuals committed to improving developmental outcomes in the areas of learning, health, safety and economic security for children ages birth to eight.

The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce, a not-for-profit member organization dedicated to supporting and improving the business climate in the region, exists to deliver on four solid cornerstones of development – promotion, education, networking and leadership.

The cupboards were bare,

you helped fill them.

The checking account was empty,

you helped fill it.

Under the tree was vacant,

you helped fill it in.

We called for help and you the Wallingford community responded with overwhelming generosity. You were there to

help your neighbors in a time of need. Over 420 Wallingford families were in need of assistance this holiday season

and your support, caring, and generosity made Holiday for Giving the success that it was; our program, which is based

solely on donations and volunteers, was able to provide "Holiday Magic" to all those Wallingford families. The array

of events, campaigns and people is what makes this program for Wallingford residents a tremendous success.

There are so many organizations and people to thank that we first say a huge "THANK YOU" to everyone; the donations of money, food, personal hygiene items, and toys were amazing! Businesses and patrons whom supported the Giving Trees/Toy Boxes; the gifts were exceptional. To the students, teachers and staff in our town schools; your food drives were great! To Sheehan students and teachers; an outstanding job on your food drive, over 6,000 food items helped feed so many families! To all the town employees who participated in the town-wide dress down and dress up day; your generosity was dazzling. The Wallingford Public Library; what a successful book drive. To Wlfd Parks & Rec, our new "home" was most welcoming, thank you all for your hospitality, can't wait to return next year.

To Trail of Terror, Wallingford Foundation, Wallingford Elks, Masonic Healthcare, Ashlar Village, Quinnipiac Chamber, SCOW, Barberino Real Estate and Holiday Cinemas; your magnificent generosity surely brought jubilation to so many children and families, we can't thank you enough. To the Public Works Department and Wallingford Electric Division; thank you for your time and commitment. Wallingford Fire Departments, you were lifesavers; the donation of time, money, food and toys was phenomenal. "Fill a Fire Truck with Toys" campaign by the Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department was the tops. To the Sheehan National Honor Society, astounding; your generous donation of toys deserves an A+. To the Dag Hammarskjold Girls Basketball Team, Dag Builders Club, Lyman Hall and Sheehan Peer Advocates, you are all awesome; thank you for the hours of sorting, packing and shopping. To Mayor Dickinson, Don Roe, Superintendent Menzo, and the Youth and Social Services Department; your support keeps us going. To East Center and West Center Markets; your generosity is truly appreciated. Through everyone, our program puts food on many tables, smiles on over 530 children's faces, and provides some "holiday magic" during the most joy­ ous season. Wallingford is truly a better community because of everyone's generosity. The holiday spirit of giving and sharing is alive and well in Wallingford not only through the holidays, but year round.

To everyone who shared with Holiday for Giving we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Harvey, John, Mike, Henry, Karen, Linda, Karen, Meredith, Mary Lynn and Kathy wish everyone a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

WHAT INSPIRED ME ABOUT MY CITY KITCHEN? I'd like to first say thank you for all that Chef Kashia has done for me and my daughter Cerina. She started MCK - healthy cooking summer camp last year and learned so much. To this day she continues to apply all that she has learned from the program in regard to eating good foods, and knowing how to read food labels.

AVANTI

Restaurant & Lounge

Your Total Satisfaction Is Our Favorite Recipe!

Seeing her coming home eager to show us what she has learned by simply cooking foods for us has really inspired me to get involved and really change the way we eat as a family. I had the opportunity to be a chap­ erone on several trips with your program such as the farms and visiting culinary schools got me so encouraged and motivated, that I am now a full-time student at Lincoln Culinary School. I love the whole experience, cooking gourmet foods and sharing my knowledge with my family and friends. I am also proud to say that now my daughter has chosen to continue her path in culinary at Wilcox Technical high school in Meriden.

I truly want to thank everyone at My City Kitchen for all your help and encouragement that you all have shown towards me and my daughter, and hopefully in the future have a successful business with my daughter.

Juan Hernandez Jr. EMAIL YOU VALENTINE GREETING and Celebrations - Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com

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Page 5 January 2011

The Year of Eighty Books

by Colleen Totz Diamond

Sound the alarm! January 8th, and I finally have a New Year's Resolution. Obviously, timeliness is not it. More like,

better late than never. My Resolution: Create brain space, and guard it within half an inch of my happy life.

Here's where it started. A few of my college friends were batting around their 2010 stats. Average number of books read last year? Eighty. EIGHTY. Novels, nonfiction, volumes of poetry. Eighty. Their New Year's project is to create a reading log to track the number and type of books they read. Feeling a little broken, I hopped the train, too. I could cre足 ate a log. But eighty books? I don't have the attention span for that type of effort. Heck, it's January 8th. I'm already behind.

But a commitment is a commitment, so I reopened my GoodReads account. GoodReads.com is a social networking site where you maintain three "shelves": books that you want to read; books that you are currently reading; and books that you have read. You can rate and write reviews of the books that you have read. You can browse reviews written by other GoodReads members. As with Facebook, you "friend" people and get updates on what they're reading (and they on what you're reading).

The trouble with using my GoodReads account was that I had not logged on since 2008. I forgot my password. And sadly, I'm listed with an author account, because I authored a couple of how-to books. Luckily, retrieving a lost pass足 word is not a difficult thing to do. You click the Forgot Password link, enter your email address, and a new password link arrives in your Inbox.

Unfortunately, in my case, I had also lost the password to the defunct email account that I used to set up the GoodReads account. The password was sent to my email account, and I couldn't open the account to read the email.

Frustrating. But after wracking my brain to remember three-year-old passwords, I got it. I retooled my account, all the while painfully aware that my eighty-book goal was running into a fog bank of bad decisions. (I was also painfully aware that allowing my author account to lie dormant for three years was a bad idea.)

Somewhere between chasing passwords and updating my account, I asked myself why exactly I was doing this dumb exercise. Eighty books is a ridiculous goal. I'm a slow reader. And I've been on a steady diet of "busy" for three years. New house. Book projects. New house . . . book projects . . . busy. Or was it busyness? Had I been subscribing to busyness, which is my biggest pet peeve in other people -- not me, of course. Except this time, the busyness was big fat mine.

Being busy and subscribing to busyness are two different things. When I worked in New York City, I was busy. A three-hour round-trip commute by car and train from Wallingford to the office. I should have been exhausted. I wasn't.

I also read about eighty books in a year and a half. Now, as an underemployed freelancer, stay-at-home wife, and ama足 teur cat-herder, I overfill my to-do lists with unnecessary errands and optional home improvement projects. I busy myself so completely that I never settle in and accomplish the things I want to do. Perceived "need" has totally eclipsed determined "want."

Which brings me back to my New Year's Resolution for 2011. I need to lose the busyness and focus on those things that create brain space for me. I want to read like I did before 2008. Maybe not eighty books, but one book per week seems reasonable. I want to write independently. I have personal goals. I can't accomplish them if my life is cluttered with busyness. I can't achieve my goals if I sell my brain space for free.

You can follow me on http://colleencantrollerblade.blogspot.com. Content is Rated PG-13.

The submission deadline for the February 2011 issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is February 4th. DON'T FORGET TO SEND YOU VALENINTINE GREETING. Email your stories, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos and celebrations to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com. If we can help in any way please call 203-235-9333.

$ CASH PAID FOR $ Toyotas, Hondas, Nissan, Suzukis, Subarus, Geo Any Condition. Running or not crashed and burned. Other makes and models. Motorcycles, ATVs and more.

Call 203-600-4431 Solve-It-All COMPUTER HEALERS

WINTER DULDRUMS It's time to sleep!

The days are short;

Holidays are over;

It's easy to hibernate!

"To be or not to be, that is the question;"

William Shakesspeare wrote this many years ago and it's still true.

If I sleep, if you sleep, the world stops!

Instead, take that exercise class to rejuvenate those tired bones and muscles. Walk outside when the sun is bright.

Feed the birds! Your endorphins will chase the winter blues away.

Bake some bread or chocolate chip cookies for the neighbors who are sick or unhappy. Perhaps, your visit will bring some sunshine to them and their burdens will lighten.

Knit that sweater for a baby that is cold in this big universe; sew a school bag for a child and fill it with tools for learning. Buy a few nail clippers, face towels, combs and washcloths. Give all these to the church to send to Church World Service. This way all of us help others and bring hope throughout the world.

And don't forget to write that short story for my son's paper. His newspaper will survive if you and I write. The fruits of our imagination will build a circle of Love in this world.

By Priscilla Reynolds

LocalMotion - Local Business! 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!

1/30/11

Computer repairs (replacing broken devices-computer errors) Virus & Spyware Cleaning Updates (Windows patches to software Patches) Tune-ups (Cleaning of Windows junk files, System errors and defragmentation) Networking of systems and devices.

Upgrades (Ram, OS, Drives, and Software) System Backup Computer installs.

DSL Internet Installs Anything that is computer related except MAC.

203-213-5444 wmontefusco@yahoo.com

1/30/11

Page 6 January 2011

Many people look forward to the new year for a new start on old habits.

Servicing Transmissions Since 1952

694 Old Colony Rd. 203-237-4379

People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon

Look for the answers in this issue.

ACROSS 1. Hat 4. Scheme 8. A salmon that has spawned.

12. Exist 13. "_____-Robert Cavalier, SIER de LaSalle, French explorer was the first European to sail down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico."

14. "______ the Terrible" 15. Part of an hr.

16. A very small quantity.

17. Camper's "home".

18. A sudden overwhelming fear that produces hysterical or irrational behavior.

20. Make lace.

22. Bird's "home".

25. The last inning of most baseball games.

29. Not closed.

32. The night before January 1. (see also 9 down) 34. Family, relatives.

35. City in Nevada.

38. A pig's "home" 37. Opposite of sq. (abbr.)

38. "One ___ a time."

39. Sacramento is the capital of this state. (abbr.)

41. Famous writer of fables.

43. A person or thing that is atypical, bizarre, eccentric, or nonconforming.

47. A spider's trap.

49. To revise or reconstruct.

50. Farm building.

53. Prefix meaning "against".

56. Initials of a U.S. (government intelligence agency during World War II).

58. A woodwind instrument.

59. Broad smile 60. She was the star of the TV series "Maude" and also featured on "The Golden Girls".

61. Budweiser, Miller, e.g.

62. In football, to tackle the quarter­ back behind the line of scrimmage before he is able to throw a pass.

63. A unit of energy.

Down 1. Bivouac.

2. Operatic solo.

3. English Quaker colonizer in

America, he founded the state now known as the Keystone State 4. Expenditure required in buying or maintaining something.

5. Zodiac sign represented by a lion.

6. Picnic pest.

7. Clean and tidy.

8. Baby cats.

9. The night before January 1. (see also 32 across).

10. A system that links together electronic office equipment within an office or building.

11. An explosive used especially in munitions and for demolitions. (ini­ tials).

19. A public lodging house serving food and drink to travelers.

21. "____ which way but loose".

24. Seven plus nine, minus one, divided by three, multiplied by two, equals ____?

26. Famous singer and jazz pianist (1919 - 1965), "____ King Cole.".

27. If it can't be done from afar, _____ _________.

28. After you graduate from ___ you may want to attend a univ. or a coll. (abbr.)

29. Green vegetable, it is a primary ingredient in gumbo.

30. To yearn deeply.

31. "Do the _____ justify the means?"

33. "He is a man of his _____."

35. An act of plunder, violent seizure, or abuse.

40. Roker, Pacino, e.g.

42. Possessor.

44. Imbibe.

45. " To ___ or not to ____, that is the question….."

46. A sun-dried, unburned brick of clay and straw.

48. Grocery containers, available in plastic, paper and now also in reusable cloth.

50. A float for a fishing line.

51. The great emancipator, Honest ____.

52. Fish eggs.

54. Gun owner's organization. (ini­ tials) 55. "____, Tac, Toe".

57. Droop.

Wallingford WE CARE News and Events THIRD ANNUAL PRESCHOOL INFORMATION FAIR The Wallingford Public Library and WE CARE [Wallingford Early Childhood Alliance Resource Education] will spon­ sor the Third Annual Early Education Fair on Saturday, January 22, 2011 from 9:30 - 12:30 in the Library's Community Room. This event will feature representatives from most all of Wallingford's licensed preschool providers and other social services groups. This is a great way for families with preschool children to come and meet with preschool teachers to see what opportunities are being offered to help them get their child ready for school. The child care and preschool programs cover a variety of options such as full day programs to part time experiences. The pro­ gram is free and open to the public. For more information you can call the Wallingford Public Library at 203-284-6436 or the WE CARE Family Resource Center at 203-284-4019.

RAISING READERS PARENT CLUBS Raising Readers Parents Clubs are being set up in Wallingford in 2011. Thanks to a grant from the Liberty Bank Foundation, WE CARE is partnering with the Wallingford Public Library to offer these 8 week programs for parents, grandparents and family members who are interested in bringing this national literacy program into their homes. The clubs are open to parents and grandparents who have children ages 2-6 and will be forming and running this winter and spring. During the 8 week program adults will learn the best way to support children's literacy through a love of stories, books and activities. It's time to turn off the laptop and open your lap for this great experience. The programs are free but registration is required. If you are interested in joining a club, please contact the Children's Library at 203­ 284-6436 or the WE CARE Family Resource Center at 203-284-4019.

A Message from the Superintendent Dear Friends, I hope you had a most enjoyable holiday. I continue to be impressed by the efforts of our students and the enthusiasm and expertise of our staff. Meriden teachers have been utilizing the Meriden District Assessments to inform their instruction and increase student learning. During these difficult budget times, it is even more important that all deci­ sions are closely scrutinized and that we make sure that those decisions are predicated on placing students first.

In regards to the budget, we have already begun preparing for next year's budget. Due to the loss of federal grants, the Meriden Public Schools District will lose twenty-eight grant funded positions. Many of these positions provide direct teaching support to our children. This is concerning and it will have an impact on our district's service delivery models.

The Board of Education's Finance Committee recently approved a 2.93% budget increase. That figure will be going to the Board of Education for approval. If approved by the Board of Education, that will be the budget request pre­ sented to the Meriden City Council. This budget increase includes the reduction of another nine positions and reduc­ tions to other important budget lines.

Throughout the coming weeks and months, we will continue to craft next year's Board of Education budget. I encourage all citizens to attend the Board of Education committee meetings and share their priorities. Together, we will continue to provide a terrific education for all our students.

Thank you for all your support!

See you soon.

Mark D. Benigni, Ed.D. Superintendent of Meriden Public Schools

January - A Perfect Month to Test Your Home for Radon You can't see it, smell it, or taste it. Yet it could be in your home. It's radon!

Radon is a naturally occurring colorless and odorless radioactive gas. Radon can enter your home through small cracks and other openings in the basement or foundation. Radon can also enter your home through your water supply.

Radon in your home's water is not usually a problem when the source is surface water. A radon in water problem is more likely when its source is ground water, such as a private well or a public water supply system that uses ground water.

At elevated levels, radon exposure can increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Your chances of getting lung cancer from radon depend mostly on how much radon is in your home and the amount of time you spend in your home. Smoking combined with radon exposure is an especially serious health risk.

Any home can have a radon problem. Radon levels tend to increase inside the home during the heating season when homes are closed. This makes January a perfect month to test for radon. Testing is easy to do and should only take a few minutes of your time. Kits can be purchased at your local hardware store or through the American Lung Association (call 1-800-LUNG-USA or order online at www.lungct.org). Educational materials about radon can be found at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street.

CHORALE CONNECTICUT TO HOLD OPEN REHEARSAL Chorale Connecticut, a select regional group of mixed voices, will begin rehearsals on Monday, January 24th, at the First United Methodist Church, 159 East Main Street in Meriden. Rehearsals are held Monday evenings from 7:30­ 9:30 PM. The Chorale is seeking voices for its upcoming spring concert "Voices in Praise," scheduled to be performed on May 14th at Wesleyan University in Middletown. Come and join us for an open rehearsal on Monday, January 24th, to see and hear what we are about. Plan to stay after rehearsal to meet with our Artistic Director, Dorothy Barnhart, about joining the Chorale. Call (860)621-1653 for more information.

The deadline for our February 2011 issue is February 4th. DON'T FORGET TO SEND YOU VALENINTINE GREETING. Email andy@peoplespressnews.com or celebrations@peoplespressnews.com Don't forget to send you Valentine Greeting!

Wallingford Optical

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

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

Weloming New Customers!

Eye exams provided by an Independent Doctor of Optometry

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

Page 7 January 2011

NEWS AND EVENTS FROM WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY All Programs, Movies, and Events at the Wallingford Public Library are free and open to the public! The Library is located at 200 N. Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 One-On-One Computer Tutoring - Thursdays 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard 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.

Search Our Online Catalog On Your Smartphone- Our online catalog is now available in a user-friendly format on all web-enabled smartphones. The link is located in the orange submenu of our home page or directly at http://www.libanywhere.com/m/143. Additionally, you may download the app at the Android Market and iTunes.

E-MAIL ALERTS - Do you want to know immediately when the latest James Patterson is waiting for at the CheckOut Desk? Would you like a reminder to return items before they accrue fines? Wouldn't it be convenient to know if your favorite DVD is due back soon, so you can go online and renew it for another week? All of these handy services are available free from the Library, if you submit your e-mail address to us. You can do it by phone, in person, or online. Your e-mail address will remain private, in our database, and be used only for these sorts of Library purposes.

Let us know if you questions.

KINDLE? NOOK? SONY? HELP! - If e-book readers are on your holiday gift list, check out the product reviews in the December issue of Consumer Reports online at www.wallingford.lioninc.org or in print at the Library. WPL offers down-loadable e-books through the LION consortium. To take advantage of this service, check the compatibility of the devices you are considering on the library's website by clicking on Downloadable Media, and then follow the links.

TEEN ZONE! Wii Event: DJ Hero 2 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Community Room All teens in grades 6 - 12 are invited to come and play DJ Hero 2 on the Wii! Join us after school, when we will trans­ form the Community Room into a nightclub! Please sign up online or by contacting the Library.

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY HAS GONE HI-TECH! * Become our friend on Facebook! Get updates about upcoming events, or chat with other library lovers. * Have a question to ask us? Text us. Just send a text message to (203) 903-8447 any time the library is open.

Whether you are in the library or at the mall we will get right back to you with an answer! * Don't forget about the thousands of audiobooks you can download from our web site. These books can be downloaded onto your iPod or MP3 player or burned onto a CD. * Databases: over 20 categories of electronic resources to help you search for a job, repair a car, evaluate antiques, research your family history, find a great book to read, learn a new language, prepare for a test, find newspaper and magazine articles, and much more. Link to our databases from our home page: www.wallingford.lioninc.org Saturday Mornings with Poetry: Looking forward, ever changing, ever growing!

Saturday, January 22 10:00 a.m. - 12: 30 p.m. Board Room - Get the Poetic Story Told series continues this month with the following topic: Using imagery to create poetry.

Poet of the month: Robert Frost - This month the poems of Robert Frost will be read and discussed. Poets and wouldbe poets are invited to attend and share their poetry and writing experiences. SMWP meets semi-monthly with the exception of July and August and is open to teenagers and adults.

Love the Literature, Don't Have the Time?- 6-Part Short Story Discussion Series Thursday, January 27 - 7:00 p.m. Collins Room Take advantage of a wonderful opportunity to explore a variety of American Writers at the Wallingford Public Library.

Beginning January 13 at 7:00 p.m., Brooks Appelbaum, Ph.D., will lead a discussion of two short stories: Ernest Hemingway's Hills Like White Elephants and F. Scott Fitzgerald's Babylon Revisited. Dr. Appelbaum will lead a dis­ cussion that focuses on the diverse writing styles of the two authors. The stories have been chosen and paired to illus­ trate the importance of style and its impact on theme and content.

The series continues through March 2011 according to the following schedule: January 27 - The Lottery by Shirley Jackson and The Ones Who Walked Away from Omelas by Ursula LeGuin. February 10 - The Swimmer by John Cheever and A & P by John Updike. February 24 - Kew Gardens by Virginia Woolf and The Dead by James Joyce Beauty, Peace, & Hope in Afghanistan - Impressions from a Solo Travelers 12-Day journey into Northern Afghanistan Monday, January 24 - 7:00 p.m. Community Room In April, May, and June of 2009 David Lurek made a backpacking journey through Central Asia. His travels led him through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan. "Travel is about the people, the cul­ ture, the foods, the sights, the sounds, the smells, the language, and the won­ derful unexpected stories," join us for a program focusing on Mr. Lurek's 12­ day journey into Northern Afghanistan.

WWC: Wallingford Writers Community Saturday, January 29 - 2:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Community Room This forum for authors and aspiring authors is gaining momentum and we are moving to the Community Room to accommodate everyone this month.

(Please note earlier start time). Our program will include a discussion of "Revision Methods for Fiction: How to Edit Your Work" followed by "Open Mic." Writers who would like to present up to 500 words of their own writing should email Karen at kllaugel@aol.com to be put on the open mic schedule.

FREE MOVIE EVENTS Friday Night Flicks - Fridays at 6:30 p.m. except Inception (6:00 p.m.)

Community Room January 21: Inception Rated R Run time 148 minutes January 28: Flipped Rated PG Run time 90 minutes COMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY Computer Class: Word 2007 Monday, January 24 - 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Board Room - Learn basic word processing skills at Introduction to Word 2007. This hands-on class will cover the differences between previous ver­ sions of Word and the current one as well as essential tasks like saving, print­ ing, and modifying document formatting. Seating is limited to 6, so please sign up early. You may register in person, online, or by phone at (203)265­ 6754.

LIBRARY NEWS Effective January 1st Library Property is Smoke-free - Although the library

building has always been a no-smoking facility, now the entire library proper­ ty is a smoke-free zone.

Library Open Sundays beginning January 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Wii Event: Super Smash Brothers Brawl 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Community Room Friday, January 28 Think you have what it takes to be the WPL Teen Super Smash Brothers Brawl champion? All Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to join us for a dou­ ble elimination tournament on Friday, January 28th from 3:00-4:30 pm.

Registration is encouraged. Stop by the Information Desk, call us, or log onto our web site to sign up.

Beginning in February: Teen Advisory Board Wallingford Public Library's Teen Advisory Board helps staff plan and pro­ mote great teen programs, recommend books, cds and dvds to purchase, dis­ cuss books, movies, music, and web sites, eat snacks, play games, and just have fun! Membership looks great on resumés, job and college applications.

Be a part of something fun and important. All Teens in grades 6-12 are wel­ come to join. Meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month begin­ ning February 2nd from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Charlotte Collins Meeting Room. Please sign up to let us know you are coming.

LocalMotion - Local Business! 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.

Happy New Year 2011

Happy New Year Zack - May it be your best ever!

CELEBRATIONS

Members of the Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department and some helpers are surrounded by the truck loads of toys they delivered to the Wallingford Holiday For Giving program in December. Their annual Fill a Fire Truck with Toys campaign was again a huge success. All the toys were distributed to Wallingford families in need, through the Holiday for Giving program.

To the YVFD and to the many people who supported the toy drive, THANK YOU and God Bless!

CELEBRATIONS

No matter if it’s a birthday, holiday, anniversary, wedding and birth announcement or just to make someone happy It’s always FREE to share your Celebrations in The People’s Press!

Email to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com or use this form to mail it in!

D o n ’ t F o r g e t Y o u r F r e e

V a l e n t i n e G r e e t i n g

Send One to a loved one!

CELEBRATIONS Happy Valentine’s Day Daddy and Mommy! ,I love you with all of my heart and soul.

YOU are the best!

Love, Alyssa

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

T h e d e a d l i n e i s F e b r u a r y 4 t h f o r o u r F e b r u a r y 2 0 11 I s s u e !

Page 8 January 2011

Maggie's Corner

A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other.

Happy New Year 2011

All I got for Christmas was this strange hat but i”m hoping 2011 will lead to lots of cookies, bones and treats - Honestly - Rusty.

CELEBRATIONS

On Monday Nov 1st Troop 10 of Meriden received a generous gift of $1000 from the proceeds of a golf tournament held Sept 11th, 2010 in honor of John “Lama” LaMontagne. John lived in Southington, but was previously a Meriden resident with strong ties to the city and many residents. John passed away prematurely Nov 5, 2009. The friends of Johnny “Lama” put on the tournament to honor him and celebrate his love of golf.

While growing up, Johnny was a Boy Scout in Troop 9 (Saint Rose Church) Meriden, under the leadership of Scoutmaster Marty Gaffey.

When Troop 9 disbanded in the early 90’s, some of the members moved over to Troop 10.

Troop 10 plans to use the donation to keep John’s scouting spirit going, by establishing a campership in his honor to assist sending Troop scouts to Summer Camp. Troop 10 is chartered to the Boy Scouts of America by the First Congregational Church on Colony St. in Meriden.

Connecticut Native: Singer/Actor/Rapper/Performer - Dean 'HB' Vitale Hip Hop, R&B Artist Dean 'HB' Vitale is in town!

By: Maggie Griffin Since 8 years old, Wallingford, CT's Home Boy, Dean 'HB' Vitale, has jammed to his own rhythm and moves, using his style that has lead him to performing in a fame of the hip hop R&B of today's generation. Now releasing his newest CD "Take You Away and Spandex", produced by Big Fish Productions and Harry Coyners in New York, will be available very soon at Best Buy along with iTunes.

"Dean is a large part of The Showcase Best Buy is promoting for the new, independent artists", said Jennifer Vitale, Dean's Mother and co-manager.

"Baby Come Over" and "Hey Girl", Dean's 1st 2 hit singles produced by Hit Shack in North Carolina, made it's rank, played on radio stations such as Paper Chase Radio and DJ Cal from Long Island, NY. When he's on stage, he admits in "Baby Come Over", produced by Brian Morgan, he'll make you want to stay and enjoy the ride". He's ready when it comes to moving to the rhythm and the beat on stage, knowing exactly how to make his performance worth everyone's while.

In 2009, and again in 2010, Dean performed at "The Giving Back to the Community Festival" located in Nice Town Park in Philadelphia, Penn. He continues to make headlines when he made his performance a thrill at the Texas State Fair. On June 26, Dean participated in The African International Festival for a new line of jeans called Adinkra, where he also made a special presentation, giving flowers to The Queen Mother of Guyana. Following, per the Queen Mother's personal request, Dean performed for her.

Because Dean has a heart for charitable causes, he will be making special appearances for "Paws for Claws" for Animal Rescue on July 25th in Brooklyn, NY. Recently, Dean returned from Murfreesboro, TN making an appearance for The Quiet Storm Benefit, a cause founded by NBA Player C.J. Watson to help underprivileged children. "I am par­ tial to charitable causes because it makes me feel great knowing my music benefits to help people in need by bringing communities together, which is a reward to me in my heart", said Dean.

Dean 'HB' Vitale is also going to be in the Broadway Show "Dancing In The Streets", based on The Jackson 5, Dean will be playing the role of Jackie Jackson. With Dean's voice, charisma, moves and vocals, he is a mirror image of a Jackson. However, when sitting with Dean, it's almost like talking to Will Smith. Ironically, Dean's next goal is to audition for "Men In Black III." In my opinion, he'd get a part in a heart beat.

Dean's Biography stems from the age of 3 months old when he was signed with A+ Models and did many print jobs through his childhood. He also was featured in commercials, following taking time of his own from both and focus on his love of basketball.

When Dean received an MBOX2 when he was a child that is when he knew he can be just like the people who have influenced him, those people are Will Smith, Michael Jackson, Brian McKnight and T-Pain. He started to write lyrics and compose his own songs. His Mother, completely in amazement, with the help of one of her friends, Sean (a.k.a.

SWISH), Dean became known as Lil' Dean who wrote the song "BIG POW!" With Dean's dance moves, his techniques in his steps grew stronger through choreography by taking dance lessons at various studios.

Because his mother, Jennifer Vitale owns Jamz Studio, Dean then started playing around with Beats and Lyrics by getting involved at her studio. His involvement grew to a higher length with the performance group, his family and friends became privy to his talents; which is the platform of what encouraged Dean the most. Now, in his older teen years, Dean has taken "HB' to the next level. Connecticut Native, Home Boy Dean 'HB' Vitale.

You just may see Dean looking right at you in a picture at a PCX clothing store. When you see his pearly white smile and sophisticated look, look out for his new CD "Take You Away and Spandex" for sale at Best Buy. Just take a look at a few of what his fans are raving about Dean: Dean is such a great singer! When i seen him singing for the first time I was thinking wow he's really good for his age. My mom got a cd of him singing and she loved it that she wouldn't stop playing it , dad said he's good how old is this guy and mom said 15 or 16 and my dad said WOW he great fantastic for his age. That's why you got to love Dean.

Film Company Scouts Wallingford British Independent film maker Tom Fox Davies is scouting locations for an upcoming feature film in the Wallingford area as well as across the state of Connecticut. The story is a modern day adventure that parallels the historical events surrounding the Underground Railroad. Fox Davies and production company About The Logo are continuing a collab­ oration begun on the feature film Homecoming due for release later this year.

Fox Davies was inspired to write the script after learning about the history of the Underground Railroad while vaca­ tioning in the US. "This wasn't something I was taught about at school and I think it's history the world should now more about. I love America and the opportunity to explore its history excited me" says the young writer.

Warm up at Ted’s This Winter!

Get Steamed up and warmed up at Ted's Steamed Cheeseburger.

Monday through Saturday 11am10pm. Sunday 11am-8pm.

World Famous Ted's Steamed Cheeseburgers has been on Hamburger Paradise and Man vs. Food on the Travel Channel or in Food Network Magazine June/July 09 issue "50 Burgers, 50 States" featured as the CT burger.

Ted's has also been featured in Connecticut Magazine and other local publications. But most important is that we’ve been seen by YOU and YOU matter the most!

Adam from Man V. Food stopped by and so should you

1046 Broad Street in Meriden - 203-237-6660

Principal photography is planned for Summer 2011 which will coincide with the festival release of Homecoming, a feature film focused on the diffi­ culties faced by an army medic on leave from active duty.

Page 9 January 2011

Let's Talk…..About Your Health Chris More, RN - Public Health Educator, Wallingford Health Department Let's talk . . . . . about "Bed Bugs." (Yuk!!) I knew sooner or later I would be discussing these "critters" with you. Remember when you were a child, mom kissed you good-night and repeated that old bedtime rhyme "Sleep tight . . . don't let the Bed bugs bite", well those little "pests" from that old rhyme are making a "New York- comeback" (no pun intended).

More of a nuisance than a health hazard, they are showing up to suck blood from people in hotels, college dorms, hospitals, theaters and even in some high end clothing stores. New York City has been especially hard hit.

Some huge clothing retailers, entertainment venues and yes even "5 star" hotels have had to be closed for fumigation. Imagine paying $600 a night for a hotel room in N.Y.C. and having a big bite taken not only out of your wal­ let, but also out of your arms, legs and bodies (SCARY).

Let's see if I can give you an informational look at Bed Bugs, what are they, where they lurk and how to spot them before they "spot" you. As with all good soldiers, you need to be able to recognize the enemy. Bed bugs are small, flat, wingless, (yes no wings - they don't fly into your room) six legged bugs that feed on blood from humans and animals. Their color ranges from white to brown, but they turn a rusty red after they feed. They are also very tiny which makes them very difficult to see, especially before they feed.

They get their name from making a nice comfy home in bedding and mat­ tresses. Do you feel creepy yet? (I do).

Can you be infested? (YES YOU CAN). They are most often found in hotels, hostels, dorms and apartments; anywhere people come and go fre­ quently. They love to hide in small crevices and are great Hitch Hikers tak­ ing a free ride into your home on luggage, pets, furniture, clothing, boxes and other objects, but they are most common in developing countries, once almost unheard of in the United States, international travel and a restriction on some pesticides has increased their presence. (How do they get passed the T.S.A?) They are nocturnal creatures hiding in beds, floors, furniture, wood and trash during the day. We humans have become their dinner during the night, and an early breakfast with high activity at dawn. They feed, drop off the host, hide and digest their meal all day. (Not a bad life). They can live up to 10 months (fed) and weeks without a feed. (I wouldn't last a day without food!).

Bed bugs leave red itchy bites on the skin, usually in rows. Bites usually don't require any treatment but as with any insect bite, scratching can always lead to a secondary infection. There are over the counter treatments, but it is always best to see your Health Care Provider for medical treatment, if an infection develops.

Many studies have taken place recently to review findings from the past that suggest these pests carry human diseases. New studies show that there is little evidence to suggest they are carriers of human disease (Whew!) Don't assume that your bites are Bed Bug Bites. They could be mosquitoes, fleas or mites. Make a careful visual inspection and look for the bugs themselves or blood stains (black or dark brown staining) in the seams of mattresses or other hiding places. (I took a small flashlight with me to the hotel and did an inspection before I unpacked. (YES I DID!) If your home does get infested, it's recommended that you call a profes­ sional exterminator. (This can be costly - but worth it). You can also attack the problem yourself. How you ask? If can afford to replace your mattresses and box springs, then replace them. But it's more than just the mattress. Trap the "critters" by placing plastic over mattresses, wash linen and bedding in hot water, dry on hot heat, clean furniture and vacuum, vacuum, vacuum, (did I say that enough, vacuum) throwing away vacuum bags AFTER EACH USE. You can look for and use an insecticide but always read the labels care­ fully for skin contact and danger to children and pets. Call you physician or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) if you have any reaction to insecticides used.

The Wallingford Health Department previously held an educational session on bud bugs. IF you are interested in us hosting another session, or have any questions, please call me at (203-294-2065).

I'm feeling a little "bugged" right now, so I'll talk with you next month until then "Sleep tight - don't let the Bed Bugs Bite."

WALLINGFORD EDUCATION FOUNDATION

TO HOST ADULT TEAM SPELLING BEE - DATE CHANGE

The Wallingford Education Foundation has announced a date change for the Adult Spelling Bee "Team Challenge".

The new date is Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Sheehan High School auditorium. The bee is the first of its kind to be run by the Foundation.

Teams of 3 persons (with 1 alternate) will compete on the stage against as many as 7 other teams at a time. The word to be spelled will be read out loud, the description given, used in a sentence, then read one more time. Teams will then have 30 seconds to confer amongst themselves and write the word on a whiteboard. Words spelled incorrectly eliminates a team. The team that wins the round (referred to as a swarm) will advance to the championship swarm and be eligible for cash prizes and trophies. Anyone 16 years of age and older may compete. In addition, audience mem­ bers including children will have an opportunity to compete in an audience bee.

Co-workers, neighbors, friends, and family members are encouraged to form teams to compete for the coveted "Best of Hive" trophy. Teams are encouraged to wear costumes and to plan a fun evening of friendly competition.

Proceeds from the event will be dedicated to the Mahan Planetarium and Learning Dome Restoration project. The Foundation is hoping to raise $300,000 to purchase a new Hi-Definition Digital Projection system to replace the exist­ ing 40-year old mechanical projector located in the planetarium at Sheehan High School.

The Foundation hopes to "sell out" the team registrations and encourages those interested in forming or sponsoring a team to act quickly. Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline for registration is March 8, 2011. Rules and registration forms are available on-line at the Foundation's website wallingfordeducation­ foundation.org or by calling the Foundation at 203-949-6532.

The Wallingford Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that has been in existence for 7 years. The Foundation supports programs and projects in the public school system that is not normally supported by the Board of Education general budget. Since 2003, the Foundation has donated over $113,000 to the Wallingford School System in teacher mini-grants and major projects.

Personal Training And Performance Enhancement Central CT's "Ultimate" 2500 square foot training facility featuring: * 1 on 1 and group personal training * Athletic training and conditioning * 1 on 1 nutritional coaching * Corrective Exercise

Thursdays at Ten Educational and Spiritual Enrichment Programs are being offered by the staffs of the Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care on the second Thursday of the month at 10:00 a.m., beginning in February and continuing throughout the year. The first topic "We are All Aging" is February 10, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at the Chiara Center 279 Finch Avenue, Cheshire, CT. Sister Suzanne Gross, FSE, Administrator, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care, will present philosophical and spiritual insights into the process of aging. The hour-long program is open to the pub­ lic and followed by refreshments. No Charge. For a look at the upcoming programs, please visit web site at www.flcenter.org. For more information or to register, call: 203 237-8084.

Lincoln Middle School's

2nd Annual Pasta Dinner & Live Auction

Lincoln Middle School on Centennial Avenue in Meriden will be holding their 2nd annual Family Pasta Dinner & Live Auction on Friday, March 4, 2011 and the entire community is invited to attend. The pasta dinner, served

by Lincoln staff members in the cafeteria, will begin at 5:30 with pasta, meat­ balls, salad, drink and dessert. Dinner tickets are available in the school's main office or at the door and cost just $5.00 (children age 3 and under eat for free). The auction will begin at 7:00 with the preview at 6:30 in the audi­ torium. Our special guest auctioneer will be local children's book author Eddie "Spaghetti" Siebert. We hope you will come with family and friends to enjoy some good food and good deals at the auction!

The deadline for our February 2011 issue is February 4th.

DON'T FORGET TO SEND YOU VALENINTINE GREETING. Email andy@peoplespressnews.com or celebrations@peoplespressnews.com Don't forget to send you Valentine Greeting!

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Page 10 January 2011

UCONN Women's Basketball makes history!

Shirts, Hats,

Diecasts & More!

* Embroidery * Photo keepsake ornaments * Etched items

Photo Tees

Home of the ORIGINAL Photo Town Shirts!

106 South Colony Road * Wallingford 203 269 6802 Hours: Mon-Fri 3:45-7:30pm Sat. 9am-5pm

www.willydsnascar.weebly.com

New Life Church exists to help guide people to new life in God and to develop them into passionate followers of Jesus Christ.

Service Times Meriden Campus Saturdays

5 PM Saturday Night Life

Sundays

9 AM Prime Time Service

11 AM Brunch Service

Wallingford Campus Sundays

10 AM at Oakdale Theatre

Meriden Campus - 262 Bee Street Wallingford Campus - Oakdale Theater located at 95 South Turnpike Road www.innewlife.com

Right At Home

Portraits & Photography

JoAnne Grabinski The UCONN Women's basketball team has made history - again. They surpassed John Wooden's eighty-eight game win streak set in 1974 by defeating Florida State 93 - 62 at the XL Center in Hartford on December 21. The Huskies met the record with an 81 - 50 win over Ohio State earlier in the week.

Now, I've been a fan for about ten years or so, a newbie by die hard fan standards. My dad had always been a fan, I think more so for Geno's coaching ethic and his ability to transform the players, not necessarily to be great players, but great people. He has instilled life-long lessons that transcend just playing the game of basketball. When my dad passed away in 2003 my eulogy had many UCONN references. That was the year when they had just lost Sue, Tamika, Swin and Asjha to the WNBA and we were all wondering what would happen,. As I recall, the result was a national championship.

My cousin Stephanie went to UCONN and recently shared these thoughts. "When I was at UCONN in the late 1990's, we used to walk into Gample Pavillion and watch the women's games. It was free, we were usually the only people there (my friend had a friend who was a trainer on the team) and we would do our homework in the stands. It's amazing how far the program has come and the transformation that UCONN has seen. With three daughters, I know those gains continue to help open the doors of opportunity for them. GO HUSKIES!" So how long will this streak last? Who knows, at best, maybe 118 games if they continue the rest of the season undefeated including another national championship or maybe just 89 games. Really, does it matter? I think not too much for if team can have a streak, it's UConn. Remember, on January 18, 2003 the Lady Huskies defeated Georgetown 72-49, UConn's 55th in a row, setting a new Division I Women's College Basketball record for consecutive victories. Then a few months later on March 10, UCONN beat Virginia Tech extending its consecutive game winning streak to 70 in a row. And now, they just made 89 in a row. So, yeah, it can be done. And if anyone can do it, it's the Huskies.

What each of these streaks proves is that UCONN has staying power, thanks to excellent recruiting, a strong defense and Geno… of course. This monumental win of 89 consecutive wins over 2 1/3 seasons is a testament not only to a great program and great coaching but the attitude of unselfish team playing. This win should be celebrated by every single player from the beginning of the program. They all contributed to this amazing number of wins, each succes­ sively built upon all the previous teams and their success.

And really, would we love them any less if (and when) they lose? I think not. After all it is only one game in the middle of the season, it's not the national championship game against Tennessee.

But the UConn Huskies can be very proud of the longest win streak in college basketball history with 89 consecutive victories. I think like many of their other accomplishments it sets them apart and emphasizes how special they are.

They continually set the bar higher and higher, not only for women's basketball, but the sport of basketball itself. And in time these ladies may just appreciate what they have accomplished.

Nature as a Mirror Dorothy Gonick

Winter Fun

Crisp, frosty air~

Winter birds need seeds to eat.

Please fill the feeders.

The crisp cold air and the new fallen snow led the grandchildren to bundle into warm caps, scarves, mittens, boots and jackets before they dashed outdoors to frolic with friends. Each pulling a sled they trudged up the high hill. Then one by one they slid swiftly down the hill, ready to pull that sled up again for another slide-again and again. Cheers and laughter filled the air. Eventually the cold seeped through their warm clothing and they were ready to come indoors to warm up. After placing their damp mittens and boots near the heater to dry, the chilled children were ready for hot cocoa and warm, fresh-baked cookies.

Their Mom and I joined them by the big window to watch the chickadees and nuthatches fly to our feeders. As they flew in and out, snatching seeds and alighting on nearby branches we marveled at their cheerfulness. Soon there were also cardinals, blue jays, and finches at the feeders, all enjoying the seeds and suet during the cold winter weather.

We wondered how those small feathered creatures with skinny legs and toes kept from freezing. Even when clothed in warm clothing we can become chilled; then we head for our warm home and a hot cup of cocoa.

We thought of other animals that live through the winter and wondered where they find food and shelter in the long, cold wintertime. We felt sorry for them, but also realized that the wild animals and birds were better suited to outdoor living than humans are. In His wisdom, God has provided areas of shelter and of food, providing for their livelihood in special ways.

Let's welcome the New Year with the resolve to live each day with the cheerfulness of the winter birds and to look for daily blessings as they unfold; finding our days to be enriched with warm friendliness, not coldness.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Critter in the House

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by Sandy Naumenko I love my house. It's small, cozy, has an awesome fireplace, and is kind of nestled in a small patch of woods. It also attracts the most diverse pack of creatures. My kids and I have seen the following around here: deer, a red fox, an albino skunk, ducks, wild turkeys, racoons in the sewer, and even a coyote along with the typical birds, squirrels and shrews. Little did I know that one day, I'd have one of these in my house! Last year, I woke up to a strange noise coming from downstairs. It was like a clunking/scraping kind of sound. Now, my daughter likes to do crafts, so I thought she was there, possibly weaving a potholder on one of those little metal looms. When I got up to go to the bathroom, I noticed her door was closed, and all was quiet. Hmmstrange. As I was in the bathroom, I heard it again. I opened the door, peeked out, looked down towards the living room and saw that the curtain was moving quickly back and forth. Something was behind it!!

My heart started to pump in my head as I quickly ran back to my room. What could it be down there? I got dressed super fast and went to wake up the kids. I told them we had a critter in the house, that everything would be ok, to get dressed and wait for me. As I went back into my room, I glanced down the stairs, and there it was. A fat squirrel.

GAH!! There was a squirrel in my house! What do you do?? I called my mom. She told me to call the police or ani­ mal control. I got through to the police and the nice woman dispatcher giggled at me.

Yeah, really funny. Well, she put me in touch with animal control, and the nice gentleman told me to just open the door and that it would go right out. He also said that it was more scared of me than I was of it. Oh, sure, that's what they always say!! I then got the kids into the bathroom to wash up, and I asked my son to cover me like they do in the army and he said, "No way! You are on your own!" So I ran down the stairs, made a lot of noise, opened the door and then the screen door and made it outside. I grabbed a rope that my kids used to swing from a tree out front. I looped it around the door handle, opened the door and stood about 20 feet away. I didn't want this thing running over my feet! I proceeded to stand there like a fool for half an hour!! I heard my kids' school bus go down the hill, then back up the hill, I was getting cold, my kids hadn't had anything to eat, and still, no squirrel!!! We really needed to get to school, so I went back in, quickly packed up the kids and got them out, and went to school. All day there I kept worrying about this thing. Would it scratch my sofa? Eat me out of my pantry? Cause total chaos and destruction in my little house? To make a long story short, when we came home after school, I walked into the house gingerly, looking from side to side. This thing could be behind the coffee maker, on the microwave, under the sofa, anywhere! As I turned the corner next to the fireplace, there it was, laying headfirst between the stairs and a basket of toys. I went back out and called the Animal Control man. He came over in about 10 minutes, went in, confirmed that it was dead, and removed it. I was very grateful, but totally puzzled. To this day, I don't know how this thing got in, or why it chose my house for its last moments. In telling this story, I hear from MANY people about their own critters in their house- birds, chipmunks, squirrels, raccoons- and how they got rid of them. Its funny- when it comes to dogs and cats and other PETS, it's OK, but when it comes to wild creatures, it's a whole different ballgame!

Meriden Public Library News and Events USED LAPTOPS WANTED FOR MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library is looking for laptops in good working condition to enhance our computer classes to the public.

We are looking for the following general minimum requirements:

Windows XP or newer - 14 inch screen or larger - Integrated wireless card preferably - AC power adaptor USB port

Donated laptops will be accepted at the Information Desk. If you have any questions please call Laura or Michelle at 203-238-2347.

LUNCHTIME BOOK CLUB - The Meriden Public Library's lunchtime book club meets on Thursdays at noon in the Friends Room. Bring your lunch and enjoy the discussion.

February 17 - I Still Dream about You by Fannie Flagg March 17- Distant Hours by Kate Morton April 21 - Freedom by Jonathan Franzen All are welcome. The books are available in a display across from the Information Desk. Contact Laura at (203) 238­ 2346 to sign up.

"FROM THE BEGINNINGS: WHO WE ARE" BOOK DISCUSSION SERIES - The Meriden Public Library will be hosting a 4 session book discussion series organized by the Connecticut Humanities Council. The series "From the beginnings: who we are" will take place at Meriden Public Library in the Griffin Room at 6:30 pm starting in January.

Marsha Bansavage will be the facilitator. The books to be discussed are: Tuesday, February 15, 2011 - The Tender Bar by J.R. Moehringer Tuesday, March 15, 2011 - Color of Water by James McBride Tuesday, April 19, 2011 - Bee Season by Myla Goldberg.

Books will be available at the library. Please contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library's web page at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to sign up to participate.

SCRABBLE SESSIONS AT MERIDEN LIBRARY - Meriden Public Library hosts afternoon sessions for people who enjoy playing Scrabble. The afternoon sessions will be on Monday, January 24 at 2:00 pm in the Friends Room.

All skill levels are welcome. Scrabble boards will be provided, but people are welcome to bring their own boards.

Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have any questions about the library programs.

WRITERS NETWORK JANUARY 26 - The Writers Network will meet on Wednesday, January 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the Meriden Public Library Friends Room. 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 is welcome to attend. If you are interested in joining the Writers Network, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email us comsvc@hotmail.com.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ALZHEIMER'S JANUARY 26 - Meriden Public Library will be hosting the pro­ gram "Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's" presented by the Village at Kensington Place on Wednesday, January 26 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room. Light refreshments will be served. This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit www.meridenlibrary.org and select "Adult events" to reserve a seat 'BANGKOK AND BEYOND" TRAVEL PROGRAM JANUARY 29 - Take a trip to "Bangkok and beyond" with Frank and Phyllis Donovan on Saturday, January 29 at 2:30 pm in the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room. Thailand's capital city, Bangkok, is an exotic, exuberant, intriguing, infuriating metropolis of 10 million people. Come visit the sacred Temple of the Emerald Buddha with its ferocious mythical guards. See the 150 foot Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho and Wat Traimint's solid gold, 5 ½ ton Golden Buddha. Tour the King's elegant summer palace Bain Pa-in. Then, zip the canals in a fast long-tail boat to the bustling Floating Market, followed by a more leisurely cruise down the busy Chao Phraya River from the ancient capital of Ayutthaya.

This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit www.meridenlibrary.org and select "Adult events" to reserve a seat.

MOVIES AT THE LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be showing the following movies during the month of January: the movie "Music Man" will be shown on Thursday at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room. On Thursday at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room, the movie will be "Nanny McPhee Returns." This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about any library program.

MERIDEN CHILDREN'S LIBRARY - Don't be SHUT-IN for the winter.

Come have some fun with us at the Meriden Public Library. Our story hours will begin the week of January 10th for ages 0 to 7!

Our schedule will be as follows: Mondays-Kindergarten to 2nd grade (stories & crafts), Tuesdays- Independent 2 year olds at 10:15 am., 3-4 year olds at 11:15 am., 1:15 pm, and 6:30 pm.

Wednesdays-2-3 years old with parents, grandparents, or caregivers at 10:30 am, 3-4 years old and 2 years old with parent at 6:30 pm.

Start On Stories for children under the age of 2 and their parent or caregiv­ er are invited to join us for stories, finger plays, music and socialization at 10:30 am. on the following February 3, 10, & 17.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEM Available at the VNA of Wallingford, Inc. The Visiting Nurse Association of Wallingford, Inc., located at 135 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford, announces the introduction of Lifeline with AutoAlert! For many, many years the VNA has provided the Philips Lifeline Emergency Response System to hundreds of seniors in our communi­ ty and also to anyone who may be homebound with illness and who requires a personal emergency response system to remain safely and confidently in their home. Working in conjunction with Philips Lifeline, the new Lifeline AutoAlert! is a special personal help button that is worn as a pendant during your active day, while sleeping at night or when in the shower. A computer chip inside the button senses your body movements with a 96% to 97% accu­ racy rate. After three days of wearing the button, it can differentiate between your fall and other body movements. It's a fact, half of those who fall will not be able to get up without help. More than 13 million adults over the age of 65 will fall this year - that's one fall every 2.4 seconds. Dropping the button to the floor will not trigger the sensor, as it is so specific to sensing your body movements and falls. Many seniors and others have mobility limitations or illnesses such as arthritis, low vision, or balance problems that can easily lead to a fall. A family may have peace of mind knowing their loved one is pro­ tected by an emergency response system while they are away at work or liv­ ing in another town. By simply pressing the button, assistance is summoned whether it has been a fall, or the need for help with any emergency situation.

A specially trained Lifeline Reponse Center Associate will come on the line to see what type of help you need. The AutoAlert button is the only one of its kind in the entire personal response industry and is available through the Visiting Nurse Association of Wallingford now. Please call Ginny Stewart, R.N. at 203-269-1475 to learn more about the available personal emergency response systems available from the Visiting Nurse Association of Wallingford, Inc.. Support your local VNA!

Page 11 January 2011

JACK You are the light....you are the

love.......you are the captivating star....

the star that came...for me,

from afar.

One March...many emotions... as two

people felt....it could not contain....

contain the blue sky, the clouds or any

drop of cleansing rain.

The sky let go..let go with a

spark....the spark that became so

bright.....

it lightened even the darkest of the

dark.

This day...this blonde star

exceptional, memorable, significant

and unique.....

the sky that kissed his new mother on

her reddened cheek.

He was John by name and Jack by

growth...

growth with greatness....greatness of

both.

Upon his parents, sisters and uncount­ ed friends this gift did he bestow,

this gift that made him swiftly glide...

on tranquil water and blanketed

snow...

With ease it came....and then mind

expanded....

cities travelled and now to be land­ ed...

landed in the core...the core of the

star's own apple,

where identitys will grapple.

Wild and controlled.....

became the inner talks...

the star wanted to go...to go where

freedom walks.

He did.

The star let go....let go with a

spark...that lightened up my darkest of

my dark.

Thank you sky...thank you star.

by Kathryn Cinquino

Happy New Year 2011

Hey Mark - YOU RULE! Happy New Year!

PLC/DATA TEAMS

ARRIVE

IN THE MERIDEN

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Starting Thursday, January 27, students will be dismissed 30 minutes early every Thursday.

Students will receive additional instruction time each week due to the new schedule.

See our website for more details: www.meriden.k12.ct.us

Page 12 January 2011

January 2011 Events at the Augusta Sundays 23rd, & 30th ---JC Music students will perform afternoon music for all to enjoy from 2pm to 5pm. Tickets are $5.00 and children under 7 are free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at JC Music, 529 West Main Street or at the door. For more information on January recitals contact JC Music at 203-630-2496.

Satuday, Jan. 29th ---CT Guild of Puppetry Annual Scholarship Fundraiser.

Adult oriented, fun event for the creative creature in us all. See website for more info or to purchase tickets.

St. Andrew's Prayer Shawl Ministry The Prayer Shawl Ministry of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Meriden will meet On Monday January 31st, 2011 @6:30 pm in the Guild Room at St.Andrew's. All are invited,St.Andrew's parishioners or not (Men Included!!)..Learn something new for the New Year. Can't knit or crochet, we can get you started...Our meetings will return to the Second Monday of each Month on March 14, 2011. Please call Pat @203-238-4227 for more info

CELEBRATIONS

A big THANK YOU to the Rotary Club for providing every third grader at Nathan Hale School with a dictionary. We certainly appreciate their gen­ erosity.

New Year's Memories

The Christmas tale of my "too frightened to speak" son-in-law to be which I related to you in the "Holiday Memories" issue of "People's Press" has a sequel to it. Let me set the stage.

When I was a small child, my family, Mom, Dad and my two older sisters and I, would take an annual vacation to Wisconsin Dells, WI. This would have been just at the end of WW2 in 1945. At that time Wisconsin Dells was little more than a fishing resort, and scenic wonder, on the Wisconsin River. This was even before Tommy Bartlett came to town. It was a sleepy little town, quiet and peaceful; much of the population was employed by nearby paper mills. The local Native Americans would sell cheap trinkets and souvenirs to those inclined to buy them. We stayed at a "mom & pop" guest house; nowadays they call them "B & Bs".

They were nice folks, they liked our family and we liked them and their house! It was near enough to the local attractions and close to hiking trails along the Wisconsin River. We didn't do much except relax, ride the excursion boats to see the "Dells" ,which were water-carved canyons and passages made by the river over the course of countless eons. My sisters and I would also hike the trails along the river. I liked that because it was like being in a jungle!

At night my dad and I would stroll over to the Milwaukee Road depot and train watch. That is how we got to the "Dells", on one of the famous "Hiawatha" trains on the Milwaukee Road. I got my love of trains from my Dad. He had been a locomotive fireman when he was a young buck and his father was an engineer and railroad inventor. I never knew my grandfather as he passed long before I was born. At any rate I always enjoyed myself and it was always a thrill to watch those Milwaukee Road trains pass through the Dells. Steam locomotives still reigned at that time and the Milwaukee Road had some really neat engines!

Segue to New Years Eve of 2000...

As I mentioned previously, we had a memorable Christmas. My daughter became engaged to be married. We celebrat­ ed the holiday in our usual manner. I worked a couple of days between the holidays on switch engine jobs locally, my turn on the Chicago-La Crosse WI freight pool was called for a late night departure on Dec. 30th. It seems that my engineer-mentor had "laid-off" from the turn (his wife had become quite ill) and the engineer that was called for the turn didn't accept students, I still had to go with the turn regardless. Fortunately for me, it was with an engineer and conductor I knew quite well and had worked with both of them quite often. It is not unusual for engineers to not accept students, that are part of their contract. It is a personal matter and there is no negative connotation attached to it. So I got to be a passenger in the loco. cab, but I was still being paid and I could assist the crew in any way they needed.

It was an uneventful trip and we arrived in LaCrosse early in the morning of Dec.31. We stopped for a hearty break­ fast at a local LaCrosse restaurant and then went to the hotel. The hotel provided transportation for the crews to/from the hotel and yard office. They didn't mind dropping us off at the restaurant and they would come pick us up when we were finished. We got our rooms at the hotel, checked the computer to see when we might possibly be returning; looked like sometime about midnight or later. I went up to my room, phoned my wife to let her know my room number, watched a little early A.M. TV until my eyelids grew too heavy and I surrendered myself into the arms of Morpheus.

At about 10:30 AM the telephone startled me awake, I croaked out a "Hullo" , a voice replied "Charles, you are deadheading home on AMTRAK, you have about 1/2 hour to get ready, transportation has been called, the rest of your crew has been notified, your tickets are at the depot, get moving!" I told her that I was on student status and not allowed to deadhead. She assured me she knew that but told me that the hotel has a New Years Eve party scheduled, ALL their rooms are committed and they want all of us out of there ASAP. I don't need to be told twice. I hastily washed-up, dressed and made my way downstairs to the waiting van. My crew was questioning why I was being sent home and I told them to check with crew management, besides it wasn't their concern!

We stopped at a local "quick mart" for "coffee and", I bought a LARGE coffee to wake myself up. We arrived at the depot, got our tickets and boarded AMTRAK #28, the eastbound "Empire Builder". What happened then was a trip back through time! This was the same route the Milwaukee Road trains traveled those many years before.

We stopped at Wisconsin Dells, I saw the old depot, much rebuilt and refurbished, the river,the main street of the Dells and many of those same familiar scenes. I recalled how they looked before the Dells became the glitzy "honky­ tonk" it is now. I remembered the dark, mysterious train shed of the Milwaukee city depot and the sights along the way.

I was a six year old child again! I wanted to sleep, but I couldn't, I was too excited! How I wished my parents and sis­ ters could be there again to share the memory!

Seldom does one get to revisit their youth, and it is something to be relished. I was back in my early childhood reliv­ ing those "salad days" and basking in the warmth of pleasant memories.

It was, indeed, one of the Happiest New Years I ever experienced C.J.Tomlin

Carlos Perez Welter Weight Silver Gloves Northeastern Champion!

At Rousseaus’s, we get to the bottom of Car Troubles!

Silver City Boxing Club Carlos Perez brings home Northeastern Silver Gloves Welter Weight Championship Sunday. Carlos Perez age 15 the 147 Ct State Silver Gloves Champion and Darius Wesley the 165 Ct State Silver Gloves Champion from Meriden's Silver City Boxing Club won their seats in the Regional Silver Glove Championships December 11th at the Bright Future Center in Hartford Ct. Advanced to the Silver Gloves Northeastern Regionals in Oneonta New York this past weekend. Carlos Perez a Platt High school Freshman had his first bout Saturday against New York Champion Charles Weathers. With constant pressure on Weathers through out the first and sec­ ond rounds. Weathers was disqualified in the 3rd round for holding. Perez winning by disqualification he advanced to the finals to beat New England's Champion Michael Briggs in a unanimous decision .Carlos Perez will repre­ sent the Northeastern Silver Gloves Region in Independence Missouri February 2nd in the Silver Gloves Nationals .

Darius Wesley won the 165 Ct State Silver Gloves Championship by knocking out Linton Charles from Sweet Science Boxing December 11th at the Bright Future Center in Hartford Ct. Darius a Maloney Freshman advanced in his first Silver Gloves Northeastern Regional Tournament and won a decision against New England's Champion Carlos Estrada. While Wesley earning a win in the semi finals he injured hid shoulder and was not able to advance.

Meriden's Silver City's David Wilson won the 165 Ct State USA Boxing Championship Title against Waterbury PAL Godfrey Campbell December 4th at the Meriden Boys and Girls Club.

Lincoln Middle School Teacher Thomas Moore Honored

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RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES® OF CONNECTICUT AND WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS HONORS Teacher Thomas Moore of Lincoln Middle School in Meriden Receives the Prestigious Award Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts honored 10 area teachers with the fourth annual RMHC Local Hero Awards. The selected teachers from Connecticut and Western Massachusetts have all exhibited tremendous dedication to their profession and outstanding efforts in servicing their schools and communities. The recipients were honored by the RMHC Board of Directors at a reception at the Connecticut Governor's Residence in Hartford on Tuesday, October 26, and were joined by Superintendents and Principals from their respective districts and schools, as well as other invited guests. Commemorative plaques were presented to the 10 teachers, and RMHC donated a total of $5,000 to area schools through $500 grants for each honoree's respective school.

In Photo: Laura Phillips Ward (center-right), President of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts, presents Lincoln Middle School special education teacher Thomas Moore (center-left) with a plaque commemorating his RMHC Local Hero Award, which recognizes 10 outstanding area teachers each year.

Lincoln Middle School Principal Leo Lavallee (right) and Assistant Principal Lysette Torres (left) were on-hand to con­ gratulate Mr. Moore for his accomplishment.

Page 13 January 2011

Keith Richards's "Life" narrated by HorizonVU Music friend Joe Hurley

By Phillip A. Cartwright HorizonVU Music There can be no question that Keith Richards is amongst the most colorful (colourful?) rockers of all time (certainly topping our list of rock'n'roll sur­ vivors). His book, Life, is out on 20 CDs. Our good friend Joe Hurley joins actor Johnny Depp in voicing what the Guardian calls " the vicarious thrill of voyeurism within the framework of a cautionary or salutary tale."

From Amazon.com: As lead guitarist of the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards created the riffs, the lyrics, and the songs that roused the world. A true and towering original, he has always walked his own path, spoken his mind, and done things his own way.

Now at last Richards pauses to tell his story in the most anticipated auto­ biography in decades. And what a story! Listening obsessively to Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters records in a coldwater flat with Mick Jagger and Brian Jones, building a sound and a band out of music they loved. Finding fame and success as a bad-boy band, only to find themselves challenged by authorities everywhere. Dropping his guitar's sixth string to create a new sound that allowed him to create immortal riffs like those in "Honky Tonk Woman" and "Jumpin' Jack Flash." Falling in love with Anita Pallenberg, Brian Jones's girlfriend.

Arrested and imprisoned for drug possession. Tax exile in France and recording Exile on Main Street. Ever-increasing fame, isolation, and addiction making life an ever faster frenzy. Through it all, Richards remained devoted tothe music of the band, until even that was challenged by Mick Jagger's attempt at a solo career, leading to a decade of conflicts and ultimately the biggest reunion tour in history.

In a voice that is uniquely and unmistakably him-part growl, part laugh-Keith Richards brings us the truest rock-and­ roll life of our times, unfettered and fearless and true. Richards' rich voice introduces the audio book edition of LIFE and leads us into Johnny Depp's performance, while fellow artist Joe Hurley bridges the long road traveled before Richards closes with the final chapter of this incredible 23-hour production, which includes a bonus PDF of photos.

Life by Keith Richards (Author), James Fox (Author), Johnny Depp (Narrator), Joe Hurley (Narrator) now available at Amazon.com through SHOP HorizonVU Music http://blog.horizonvumusic.com/?page_id=2667

Frugal Living in Connecticut

By Gina Juliano On December 28th, 2010, I posted the following on my blog: The New Year is almost here and I thought my New Year's Resolution would be to track what I spend and save throughout the year. Erin at Jane4Girls inspired me to do this. She has a set budget of only $800 a year for her grocery and drug store spending. I'm pretty sure she includes eating out in this as well. I don't think I'm up for that big of a challenge, but I thought I would try to stick to an average of $50 per week or $2600 annually. I told my husband this and he thinks I'm nuts, but I really want to try! I've learned so much over the last six months about couponing, stockpiling, finding deals, and getting free stuff that I want to quantify my savings.

The other part of my resolution will be to track the value of what I buy and how much I save by using coupons and getting free items. I will also track the value of what I give away to the food bank. I'm actually excited to get started next week!

It's now a year later and the day of reckoning has come. I am ready to unveil how I did on my $2600 Challenge.

Merchandise Purchased (Before Sales/coupons): $11,209.30 Coupons Used: $5,143.18 Spent Out of Pocket: $3,281.23 Rebates Received: $907.71 Donated: $2,991.90 REMAINING BALANCE: $226.48 As you can see, I made my goal for 2010! I am so proud of myself and actually can't believe I have money left over.

I'm using some of my surplus to buy lobsters and other food for New Years for Hubby and me. We are celebrating our 5 year anniversary that night, so I think it's appropriate to splurge a little. Hubby is really excited for me as well. He did think I was nuts when I wanted to do this. He was also worried that we would be eating crappy food and he would have to sacrifice quality for cheaper things. Not only did I prove to him we didn't have to do that AT ALL, I also proved we could eat well just by being smarter with our shopping. Now, Hubby is used to the surplus of food in the basement and incredulous if we run out of something! I've even got him looking for deals in the grocery store.

Looking back at my numbers, I think about how much money I used to spend on groceries and drug store purchases before I lost my job and got "coupon smart". I would have gone through at least $3,000 in three months in out of pocket expenses, and there's no way I would have bothered with rebates. I managed to spend about $3200 out of pocket FOR THE YEAR and get back about $900 in rebates. That's a HUGE savings. Even though I have a job now, I will never go back to my old habits. It's like flushing money down the toilet!

Another advantage to my "new" way of shopping is how much I have been able to donate. Everything I can't use goes to Master's Manna in Wallingford, CT. I've given almost $3000 in food and toiletries to their clients, all of which I got for free or pennies. There would have been no way I could have afforded to donate that much before I started couponing. Now, it's second nature for me to grab items for Master's Manna. I know if I can't use it, someone else can and will be more than happy to get the toothpaste, shampoo, or pasta I donate.

For the New Year, I've decided to stick with the $2600 Challenge, but my goal is to beat my surplus from this year. I want to see how far I can stretch my dollars. What will your New Year's budget resolution or goal be for this year? I would love to know!

If you would like to start on the path to a more frugal future, please visit me on my blog, Gina's Kokopelli ­ http://ginaskokopelli.com. There is tons of information on how to use coupons, get free things, "work" deals, and streamline your budget. In addition, I teach couponing classes and have six scheduled coming up in the New Year.

Please contact me at ginaskokopelli@yahoo.com if you are interested in taking a class or would like to schedule one for your community or organization.

Fireside Stories: A Special Storytelling Series at the Wallingford Public Library For Ages 5 and up and all who appreciate the art of storytelling

Thanks to a generous donation from Barbara Kennedy Shortell, a longtime library supporter and former Wallingford

English teacher, the Wallingford Public Library is pleased to announce this year's Fireside Storytelling series.

Rona Leventhal presents " Family Stories of Light and Laughter" on Friday, January 28th at 7:00 p.m. in the Children's

Library.

Family stories that are light and full of laughter are a perfect winter's entertainment.

Children ages 5 and up will love this storyteller's ability to draw them into her stories with her fabulous characters.

The Fireside Storytelling Series is free and open to families with children ages 5 and up and all those who appreciate the art of storytelling.

The submission deadline for the February 2011 issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is

February 4th. DON'T FORGET TO SEND YOU VALENINTINE GREETING.

Email your stories, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos celebrations to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com.

People from all over the state know the best deli around...

Rosa’s and now you do too!

Stop by and experience the best!

Rosa’s Caters to Your Party Needs!

For Your Family or Company, Rosa’s is the place to call to for all of your special functions

Visit our website at rosasdeli.com

Rosa’s Italian Deli, LLC imported and domestic foods party platters • hot and cold subs to go

Open Monday-Saturday 830-6 closed Sunday Tel: 265-1487 • 57 North Colony Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 •

Good to the last bite!

Danishes

Donuts

Turnovers

Coffee Cakes

All Baked Fresh On The Premises!

Hours: Mon-Tues.- 7-6; Saturday 7-4; Sun. 7-2

Page 14 January 2011

LocalMotion - Local Business! 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!

CELEBRATIONS

Children and teachers from the First Congregational Preschool, Inc. of Meriden walk donated gifts across the street to the Meriden Boys and Girls Club. Parents and teachers generously donated new toys and sports equip­ ment to be distrubuted to local children, teaching the preschoolers about the joy of giving during the holiday season!

Egg Nog, No…Egg Roll, Yes! CHUCK RINALDI Many people are fans of the movie A Christmas Story, and laugh at the family having to eat Christmas dinner at the Chinese restaurant. I know firsthand that the scene is not so far-fetched.

It was Christmas 1999. My father was very ill and had been in the hospital in Waterbury for more than a week. It was determined that open-heart surgery could not be put off, and that due to the delicate nature of the surgery, it needed to be done at St. Raphael's in New Haven. The surgery was scheduled, my dad was transferred by ambulance to the hospital, and it was performed successfully, all on Christmas Eve Day. For my Italian family, Christmas Eve is even more important than Christmas Day. Christmas Eve dinner had been planned at my brother's house. Since the dinner was a tradition, it involved a large antipasto, a number of seafood dish­ es, and platters of cookies. As usual, I and my brothers had all purchased our various assigned components for the din­ ner. Since my father had been operated on just that afternoon, and was still heavily sedated that evening, we decided to go ahead with the dinner. At first glance, that decision appears a little cold, but it was, in fact, based on what my father would have insisted on. He was a frugal man, something we teased him about all the time; in addition, any waste of food was a cardinal sin in our family. Had we called off the dinner, and he found out, we would have heard about it from him when he woke up. The dinner went on as planned, and what we feared might be a fairly grim gathering turned into a celebration of the fact that the surgery had been successful. The family was together, we drew support from one another, and a good time was had by all.

The following day, my wife and I decided to drive down to New Haven to see my dad in the hospital. We knew he'd still be pretty groggy, but we hoped that just our being in the room with him might help make his Christmas a little brighter. I'm not sure he knew we were there, but it was reassuring for us to see him, and we spoke to him, hoping that perhaps he was hearing some of what we were saying. By the time we left, it was late afternoon.

As we were driving back to Middletown, two things occurred to us. First, during our various trips back and forth to hospitals in Waterbury and then New Haven, I had uncharacteristically neglected to pay attention to gas consumption. I looked at the gas gauge…we were running on fumes, and it quickly became apparent that few, if any, gas stations were open. Secondly, because we had been so preoccupied with my father, we realized that not only had we forgotten about any kind of Christmas dinner for ourselves, but we had done no shopping and there were precious few groceries in the house. The first order of business was to find some gas so we didn't end up stranded by the side of the road. We got off the highway, thinking there might be a gas station along the regular road. We passed at least three, all of which had brightly lit "Merry Christmas" decorations, but which also were closed and shuttered. We then came upon a station that appeared open. However, in one of the most bone-headed decisions I have ever made (I'm going to ascribe it to the ten­ sion of the preceding week), I bypassed that station because I didn't "care for that brand of gas," opting to gamble on making it home. Needless to say, as we continued on, my incredulous wife looked at me with a baffled look on her face. As luck would have it, we came upon another station that was open (and of whose gas apparently I approved) and the fuel problem was solved.

Now that we were on our way again, we also discovered that all the grocery stores had closed at noon, it being Christmas and all. We figured, "Okay, let's celebrate with a nice Christmas dinner at a good restaurant." WRONG! After traveling around to some of our favorite restaurants (after all, we had gas now), we realized that not a single one of them was open and decided to give up and go home. Maybe there was a can of tomato soup in the cabinet. As we were making our way back to the house, we passed our local Chinese Buffet, which we had never even considered, and wonder of wonders, it was open. As we entered, we received a very friendly "Merry Christmas" from the owners.

Things were already looking up. As we made our way to our table, we imme­ diately noticed two things: Amidst the usual red and gold lanterns, the mini­ malist brush paintings and the massive mural of Hong Kong Harbor, there were garlands, plastic holly vines, and two small decorated Christmas trees.

Second… we were not alone. Here and there, throughout the restaurant, were families, some in Christmas attire, sitting around tables enjoying a Christmas dinner made up of everything from Egg Rolls to General Tso's Chicken to Pork Lo Mein. Trips to the buffet on this day were accompanied by smiles and shared "Merry Christmas" greetings among those of us who, for one reason or another, shared a Christmas dinner in this most unlikely of settings.

Many wonderful Christmas dinners came before and after this one. But of all of them, the part of that Christmas we spent at the Chinese Buffet still remains a vivid, amusing, and yes, a pleasant memory we will look back on fondly for many years to come.

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Slim Randles It was great to see our resident cowboy, Steve, here at the Mule Barn truck stop's version of knights of the breakfast round table this morning. He's been in the hospital for a while, getting his innards rearranged.

So what was it like?

"Boys, I got just one thing to say: Don't do it!"

But Steve, the alternative was not good.

"Oh, I know, but it's just so good to get out of there, you know? They get a guy tied down with tubes and wires and piggin' strings and hobbles … and then they got this tv set in there up on the wall, and they don't give you a remote control for it and the sound is turned off. So there you are, trying to figure out what's going on. It's the only time I've been able to figure out what's happening on the Spanish language channel."

Mavis came by and filled Steve's cup. "Whatcha havin' Hon?" "Mavis, Darling, I'd like three orders of sourdough toast, and I'd like you to make them, because you know just how long to leave each succulent slice in the toaster."

"You got it, Babe."

"Toast?" Doc said. "You get out of the hospital and you just want toast?"

Doc, we thought, don't ask a question if you aren't prepared for the answer.

"I'm glad you asked, Doc," said Steve, puffing himself up to large owl-like proportions. "You know why people get well and leave the hospital? The toast.

That's right. They'll even get well if it means getting away from 12,000 mile­ an-hour hospital toast."

"Twelve thousand…" " … mile-an- hour toast. Yessir. That's their secret. Oh, they tell you it's the medicine and the care and the expert manipulation of the bedpans, but believe me, it's serving that 12,000 mile-an-hour toast that does it."

"What is …?"

"Well, Dud, it's like this. First they take the bread and glue it to the outside of the space shuttle and then they send it to the moon and bring it back. If it survives the heat of re-entry, they slap a pat of butter on it and bring it to you."

EMAIL YOU VALENTINE GREETING and Celebrations - Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com It's FREE to share any celebration in The People's Press. The deadline for our Februay 2011 issue is February 4th.

Page 15 January 2011

WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER News and Events Canadian Rockies Trip Presentation Tuesday, January 25, 10:00 AM Learn about the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park trip scheduled for July 30 - August 6, 2011, at the slide show presentation on January 25. Highlights of this trip include: Calgary; Banff; Waterton Lakes National Park; Glacier National Park in Montana; "Going to the Sun Road"; Columbia Icefields; Athabasca Falls; Jasper and more!

Pick up an itinerary for details. Sign up if you plan to attend the presentation.

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. New Social Services Walk-In Schedule On Tuesdays beginning this month, the Social Worker will take walk-ins on a first come basis (sign in & number distri­ bution) for one-half hour sessions ONLY (30 minutes). Sessions are on the half-hour from 9:00 AM to 12 Noon and 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. No regular appointments will be scheduled on Tuesdays.

CT Energy Assistance Program 2010-2011 Heating Season

**Important Note: New Opportunities of Greater Meriden has 45 days from the date of application to send a letter of

certification to the individual. Please keep this in mind when considering when to schedule an appointment.

Appointments for assistance with fuel continue to be scheduled at the Wallingford Senior Center. Anyone 60 years of

age and over is encouraged to apply. Income limits are $30,485.00 for a single person and $39,865.00 for a couple.

Applicants MUST bring (2) photocopies of the following checklist documents:

1.

Most recent bank statement (All pages FRONT AND BACK) 2.

Verification of Social Security check or Social Security "Your New Benefit Amount" letter for 2010; 3.

Most recent checking, savings, CD, annuity, stock, bond documents; 4.

2010 year-to-date pension or annuity dividends and/or interest income; 5.

Four most recent pay stubs, if employed.

6.

Rental Income - rent stub or copy of check deposited into bank account.

7.

Most recent heat utility bill Applications are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 203-265-7753.

Support Groups and Guides Parkinson's Disease Support Friday, January 28, 10:15 AM How Do I Get There? Transportation Guide Sources of transportation for Wallingford, Meriden, and New Haven County Senior Community Resource Guide Alphabetized business and community resource listings for Wallingford and North Haven Resource Center Kiosk located in the library lounge of the Senior Center; filled with a wealth of information!

Volunteers Needed for Computer Center The Computer Learning Center relies entirely on volunteers. Our volunteers come from all walks of life, and share the desire to assist older adults with their interest in computers. As a Computer Learning Center volunteer, you will work in a challenging and inspiring state-of-the-art environment and meet new people who share common goals. Volunteer opportunities include: instructing and coaching classes; hardware and software installation and maintenance; public relations; and administration. Call Debby Voelker to learn more and/or to volunteer!

Memory Lane What is Memory Lane and where is it located? Memory Lane is an adult day program located within the Wallingford Senior Center, designed to promote and maintain independence for seniors with mild memory loss, cognitive, and/or physical impairments. This program offers a variety of pet-therapy, music, and baking activities as well as monthly day-trips, and physical activities. Hours of operation are 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Handicapped-accessible transportation is provided for residents of Wallingford at no extra charge. Eligibility is based on an assessment, interview, and medical clearance. If you are interested in an affordable, fun, and stimulating way to keep your loved one safe and independent during the day, stop by the reception desk for a brochure and tour of the cen­ ter, or contact Melinda Welch, Program Coordinator, at 203.265.7753 for more information. *There are many benefits to adult day programs: caregiver respite, daily socialization with peers, integration into the community, and avoiding premature institutionalization. * Source: http://www.caring.com/articles/benefits-of-adult-day-care-programs.

Inclement Weather Notice In the event of inclement weather, we urge you to watch WVIT-Channel 30, WTNH-Channel 8 or WFSB-TV Channel 3 for information on the cancellation of activities at the Wallingford Senior Center. If the Center should remain open in questionable weather and you are unsure as to whether you should venture out, we urge you to consider your own safe­ ty and well being and remain at home. We will make every effort to reschedule to a later date any event or activity that may have to be postponed.

VISIT our website at www.WLFDSENIORCTR.COM!

Wallingford Community Theater Program to be held at the

Wallingford Public Library

Mary Ellen Kingsland- Eckels, Director of the Wallingford Center for the Arts, and Meghan Shortell, Head of Choreography, will offer a series of pro­ grams at the Wallingford Public Library for aspiring young thespians ages 3­ 10. Children will have a chance to participate in literature-based skits and

theater improvisation.This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about

Wallingford Community Theater. To sign up for one of the following pro­ grams please contact the Children's Library at 203-284-6436.

Grades K-2 Saturday, February 19th 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Grades 3 - 5 Saturday, March 19th 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Now is the time to book Ruth for all of your 2011 Events and Parties.

Follow your dream...

Wallingford Park and Recreation News and Events 8483.400 Family Fun Winter Workshop Come be creative as a family and make some great winter crafts. We will be personalizing and painting wooden mittens

and snowflakes. Also we'll make a unique snow globe. Hot Cocoa to keep us warm as we share some fun family time.

Family crafts supply fee 15.00 made payable to instructor night of class.

When: Sunday January 23rd One Day 1:30-3:30pm Location: Exit 7A Instructor: Kim Larkin Fee: $25 per family

8060.400 Basic Wirework Jewelry 101 Come learn how to work with different gauges of wire, how to wrap wire and make swirls etc. The first week we'll learn, and then practice the wire techniques and how to use tools, then the 2nd week we will make earrings and learn how to apply to a necklace design.

Supply fee $8.00 made payable to instructor night of first class When: Fridays February 4th & 11th 6:45-8:45pm Location: Exit 7A Instructor: Kim Larkin Fee: $30 Winter Baseball Training This program is a great way to hone your skills, perfect your technique, learn proper footwork and sport-specific work­ outs in a low impact fashion. You learn the right way to do things and we make it fun!! This program is currently scheduled to be held at Wesleyan University Athletic Facility. Each weekly session will be 90 minutes. Primary focus will be on throwing mechanics, hitting mechanics and speed and agility training as it pertains to the sport of baseball.

All instruction will be age specific and training will be aided with the use of video playback. Each week the feature guest instructors from area sports training programs. Participants will receive a program T-shirt and video clips of their workout (disk will be provided). Participants will register through the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information please contact Ken Welch, 203-314-7413.

Any questions on the above activities or events - please visit the Park and Rec. Department at 6 Fairfield Boulevard or call. (203) 294-2120. Look for our new brochure coming out soon!

Volunteers Needed Volunteers are needed to visit frail, elderly people, to shop with or for an elder, to drive an elder to and from their med­ ical appointment, and to provide respite care to family members caring for a loved one who needs constant care. All that is required is a warm, loving heart and one or two hours of your time each week. A two hour training session will provide you with information and basic skills to make a difference in someone's life. The next training date sponsored

by Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers of Greater New Haven is Sunday January 23, 1:30-3:30 pm, IVCG, 30 Gillies Rd. Hamden. Please call IVCG at 203-230-8994 or email carenh@snet.net for more information and to register.

The submission deadline for the February 2011 issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is February 4th. DON'T FORGET TO SEND YOU VALENINTINE GREETING. Email your stories, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos and celebrations to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com.

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Page 16 January 2011

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Life along the Q River… An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association

By JoAnne Grabinski Christmas in the Village Saturday, December 4 was brisk and cool for the twelfth annual Christmas in the Village held in beautiful South Meriden. The Village was and continues to be all decked out with lighted wreaths on the lamp posts all along Main Street and the Christmas decorations on the bridge over the Quinnipiac River welcoming all those into the Village.

The QWRA joined in the festivities on the day by hosting a booth and giving away free seed packets, all harvested from the Butterfly & Bee Garden earlier this year. Becky spearheaded the seed packaging process with help from numerous garden people, including Patti and her son Ayo, snipping the seed heads into paper bags. From there, Becky removed the seeds, at times in most ingenious ways, from the plant and collected them into glass jars. Several long standing supporters of the garden, including Julie, Cathy, Karen and JoAnne met with Becky to packing the seeds.

There are seven different varieties of seeds including black-eyed Susan, Joe Pye weed, purple cone flower, marigold, swamp milkweed, cleome and bronze fennel. All packets were labeled with the plant name and include growing direc­ tions. As a sponsor of the Butterfly & Bee Garden, Yankee Gas Services was thanks for their generous $2,500 grant.

Several board members including Deb, Dave, Sandy, Roger and Ginny along with those garden starwals Becky, JoAnne, Julie, Melissa and Anne braved the sometime very strong winds and cold temperatures to disperse the seeds to the general public. Over 500 seed packets were handed out and many are looking forward to planting the seeds in the spring to create their own space of beauty to attract butterflies and bees to help the environment.

In November over 500 daffodils and 2,000 crocus bulbs were planted throughout the Butterfly & Bee Garden.

Several species of daffodils were planted in front of the white fence in varying heights ranging from 18 to 10 inches.

Daffodils are also planted around the bird baths, underneath the bench, around the flag pole and by the sign out near the roads. What a delightful sight when they are in bloom next spring! A much anticipated welcome to the warmer weather and Meriden's official flower.

Sprinkled all along the garden beds are the crocus, ready to burst forth in purple, white and yellow, as early as March. More are planted underneath the Butterfly & Bee garden sign and amongst the planting in front of the build­ ing. These small flowers are the first signs of spring. Hundreds of grape hyacinths were planted along the boarder of the bee nesting area and will produce a beautiful purple hedge of color as the weather warms up.

Additionally, tasks to put the garden to bed were completed at the same time. Both bird baths were emptied, cleaned and brought inside along with the bench and sundial. After the all the bulbs were planted they were covered with oak leaves, which were readily available, for protection against the harsh winds. Some plants, like the giant zinnia, cleome, bronze fennel, Joy Pye weed, marigolds, swamp milkweed and common milkweed were cut back for the upcoming winter season.

Next spring help will be needed to uncover all the plants, trim some other plants and haul out the garden accessories for another blooming season. In the meantime, we will let nature do her thing and relax and rejuvenate in preparation for another growing season.

Thank you to all who helped with the garden and to those who stopped by and visited the inaugural Butterfly & Bee garden at the QRWA. Join us in February for a winter hike led by wildlife biologist and QRWA board member Peter Picone. Enjoy a cou­ ple of hours in the fresh air and learn more about the animals that inhabit the area around the Quinnipiac River in North Haven. Explore the flora and fauna and their importance in the environment to the animals and birds. We will be on the lookout for the saw whet owl, a native species, who has been located on previous hikes. This hike is along the Q River and is relatively flat, with no major inclines or declines. Dress warmly for this outdoor activity. This is a great family oriented event. Look for more information in the February 2011 issue of The People’s Press.

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Page 17 January 2011

Local Band Review

By Wayne Montefusco Seth Adam -Amplify Seth is an artist that I have been hearing about for sometime in the past year by friends and other musicians. I went to a charity event in Dec and Seth was one of the bands on the bill I actually found him on FB and chatted with him one night. Seth grew up in Wallingford over by the Ridgeland area where I am from. The same area but at different times. We both like new original artists and not necessarily cover bands. Most places want cover bands which is to bad. There is way to much hidden talent in this state. Most Artistsmusicians feels that they have to look elsewhere to get noticed. The whole point of this column is to change that. Seth is an artist that does all original songs Seth has other disks that I have never heard of at this point but this new one that just came out in Dec has a sound that isn't the same on all songs. Sometimes he sounds like Tom Petty. Other times he sounds like no one else. This is a really good disk that grows on you with each listen. "Suicide War" is a song that sticks in your head. What I like is the songs are well written, have good lyrics and are different from one song to the next. Listening to this disk makes me want to know more about his performance. Sometimes you have to see an artist's play the songs live to really get the feel of how they are meant to be. Seth was just featured on WTNH TV show CT Style the beginning of this month.

Video is on his website.

Seth can be found playing out mostly in the New Haven area. Amplify can be heard online by going to sethadam.com.

There is other stuff at reverbnation.com/sethadam.

Amplify 2010 (Release date: December 7th 2010) 1) Suicide War 2) Falldown 3) Apologize 4) Not Sad To See You Leave 5) The Last One 6) I Can't Wait To Let You Down 7) Seventy Letters 8) Vermont 9) Stealing 10) Invisible Seth Adam - vocals, acoustic and electric guitar; Gerry Giaimo - lead guitar, acoustic guitar and vocals; Anthony Bianco - drums; and Gerard Bianco - Bass.

Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer ser­ vice 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 at andy@peoplespressnews.com with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.

Here's Wishing a Happiness, Good Health and Prosperity to all of our Dear Readers in 2011! - June and Flora Dear Housewives, Please help me. My neighbor's dog keeps barking and waking me up late at night. I have already talked to them about it. I have also called the police. But they don't seem to care. What can I do to get their attention with out causing tension between neighbors?

Had it up to my ears in Central Connecticut JUNE: That is very obnoxious. It is too late to not have tension between you and your neighbor. Once the police had to be called, the tension started. And I don't blame you one bit. No one should have their sleep disturbed by anything a neighbor is doing. I think you will have to keep calling the police. After a lot of calls to the police, something will have to be done. You may have to go to court. Be sure to call them in the night and let them know the dog is barking.

They may have him in an area of the house where they don't hear him. Good luck.

FLORA: One can live in an apartment building with 30 neighbors with no problems or live on acreage and have neigh­ bor problems. This is very complex you are dealing with. Some people just don't know how to live civilly amongst each other. They never learned it as a child and the behaviors and attitudes gets passed on generation to generation.

June, you know I have to bring God in the midst of this answer. Did you pray about this? Did you say to God. "Lord, help me. Give me the wisdom to handle this, give my neighbors the sense to see my side of this. And God, equip me with the words to mend this and to get that loud, bothersome dog quiet once and for all. And Lord, if that doggone dog won't stop yapping, give me what it takes to deal with it so I do not loose my mind and stew over it. Thank you.

Amen" I would have a conversation, face to face with the neighbor but do it before the next barking episode. If you approach them when you are angry, words may be exchanged that you may regret. Speak with a clear mind. So, after praying for some guidance, figure out a good time to talk. Tell them how it makes you feel. When Rover barks at night and wakes you, tell them it is hard to fall back to sleep. I have a difficult time the next day at work when I have my sleep interrupted. That is better then saying "Your dog is so loud. You are so inconsiderate. It is hard living next to you.

I hope you move." That angle usually doesn't work.

But, some people are just down and out right mean, inconsiderate and rude and the only thing that will help you is the prayer. That, my friend, is the truth!

JUNE: That is just doggone ridiculous. You keep praying but I hope that "up to my ears" gets a good lawyer. How again is the prayer going to help her sleep? Time to crank up the house music all night long.

Dear Housewives; Someone in my choir bought a gift for our lead singer from all of us. The problem is, she didn't mention it before hand only to spring it at our last rehearsal. She told me I owe her $10 for a gift I didn't even know she was getting. Should I refuse or let it go. - Not singing praises in Meriden FLORA: Whoa, that is a touchy tough one. This gift purchaser was in error and should be told so; nicely of course. I would not pay the $10.00. How does she know that you or the others did not already purchase something for the lead singer? What if you did not intend on purchasing the gift? I would politely decline by saying "I am sorry that I am unable to contribute. I wish you had mentioned that you were doing this before you went out and purchased it." And that is it. Leave it at that. You do not need to elaborate.

JUNE: Wow, speaking of rude and presumptuous!! You may as well give her the money so you are not singled out as the only one who didn't give her a gift. That is if you like her. However, I would have a polite chat with the buyer that next time saying, she should let you know so you don't buy something that you will end up not using. That is a new one.....very rude. Tis the season.

Happy New year to all of our readers and to you Flora.

Happy New Year to our Dear Readers and to you too June!

EMAIL YOU VALENTINE GREETING Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com It's FREE to share any celebration in The People's Press. The deadline for our Februay 2011 issue is February 4th.

Happy New Year 2011

r-----------, Happy New Year Zack - May it be your best ever!

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There's a new party in town ..

Ditch the workout and come join...Annie's Dance Party!

Meet Anne Cicia - Owner Choreographer, Fitness Motivator, Hip Hop Dance, Toning and Zumba Instructor Anne’s passion for dance, high energy, and enthusiasm will be sure to make for a fun and stimu­ lating workout that will make you sweat!

Come out and join the PARTY!!!

Annie's Dance Party promises to pro­ vide you with a fun filled, energetic, calorie burning and body toning dance class and aerobic workout.

Combining the funky flair and street moves of hip hop dance, the strong and powerful toning exercises, and the latin flavor and rhythms of Zumba, these stimulating classes will be sure to keep your heart and body pumping!

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Page 18 January 2011

FICTIONAL SEASONS Short Stories by Janet Cipolli - "THE PAPERBOY" Andrew has a pretty easy job and it pays pretty good too.

"What do you plan to do with this season's windfall?" asked his Dad. Andrew thought for a minute, "Maybe I'll take us all on vacation. How about Disney World?"

His Dad chuckled and opened his newspaper. Even he couldn't believe how his 10­ year-old son had turned a funny observation into a moneymaking venture.

Andrew and his Dad had been driving through their neighborhood on the way home from a hockey game. His Dad tried to take him to a game once a week but there was never enough money for T-shirts or any memorabilia. His Dad wasn't rich.

On this particular day, Andrew had noticed that many houses along the route home had newspapers piling up on their front lawns, porches and driveways.

"How come people leave their newspapers outside in the snow to get ruined like that? What a waste of money."

His father looked to one side of the street and then the other.

"Well, that house over there is where Sal the plumber lives. He's in Florida with his family and I wish he'd get home soon because our water heater is still leaking."

Andrew pondered his Dad's words. When they turned onto their street he noticed the house on the left had newspa­ pers piled up at the end of their driveway.

"Look!" exclaimed Andrew, "Carly's family is in California! Wow, I'll bet everybody is someplace else-that's why they're piling up!"

His Dad agreed as they pulled into their driveway.

"I got an idea!" said Andrew with excitement. "Yep, I got a great idea!"

He hopped on his bicycle and rode all over the neighborhood, writing down all the addresses that had newspapers piled outside. With the help of his parents, he contacted everyone on the list and convinced them to hire him as their "away paperboy." Instead of delivering their newspapers he would be taking them away.

"That's a great idea!" they told him. "No need for us to broadcast that we're not home for a few days. Thanks Andrew!"

His Dad looked up from his morning newspaper, "How would you like to go to a hockey game this weekend son?"

"Well, I've got every T-shirt from every hockey team that's played here this season." he deliberated. "How about we hit the basketball scene? I'll even buy you a shirt."

He looked inside his newly purchased wallet. "It's school vacation and I'm loaded!"

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Lazzari's Sports Roundup Some things one columnist would like to see in 2011...... * Christie Brinkley develop an obsessive desire to date New England-based sports columnists * Brett Favre do a cell phone commercial--demonstrating the texting capabilities of a new smartphone * young athletes be CONSTANTLY reminded of what the word "hustle" means * yours truly offered personal dance lessons from Paula Abdul * Bill Belichick do a commercial for a toothpaste that brightens one's smile * good health for baseball Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew--and ANY person battling cancer * a "mercy rule" in women's college basketball (i.e. Georgia Tech defeats Tenn. St. 82-11 on 12/30) * an NFL running back score a TD and IMMEDIATELY remember how Walter Payton and Barry Sanders celebrated * a $4.00 bottle of water at Yankee Stadium sprout arms and provide a massage, also * unlimited Kleenex handed out to teary-eyed people exiting the Metro-North platform near the old Yankee Stadium-­ as they pass the ruins of a once-sacred ballpark on their way to the new "shrine" * pretzel$ sold inside Yankee Stadium in the shapes of dollar sign$ * aluminum bat advocates get a CLUE * tattoo parlors adjacent to every NBA locker room * ushers at Fenway Park hand out Pepcid AC tablets to all fans as soon as Hideki Okajima is summoned from the bullpen * larger restrooms in the Yale Bowl press box--and ones that remain "in operation" * technological advancements in "Port-O-Pottys" used at various athletic events * an NFL replay/challenge that--time-wise--doesn't remind people of the movie "Gandhi" * not hear ONE kid say "That's BORING!" * Brett Favre and Andy Pettitte appear in a highly-anticipated ESPN special called "The Indecision" * Jets coach Rex Ryan do a TV commercial for Curel Foot Therapy Cream * officials at Glastonbury (CT) High School tear down the fairly-new press box there--and start OVER * a nice, heated, well-designed press box at ANY CT high school football venue * high school athletic directors become more receptive/accommodating to media members (didn't I say that LAST year?) * Evander Holyfield FINALLY hang up the boxing gloves (didn't I say that FIVE years ago?) * UCONN sports administrators lose the "holier than thou" attitude * a few hundred more people each night at Connecticut Tigers baseball games * Larry Brown go into the relocation/moving business * Yankees play-by-play man John Sterling check his ego before every radio broadcast * a Victoria's Secret Fashion Show to be held prior to every CT Sports Writers Alliance meeting * a GPS system that is programmed to find ONLY Hooters Restaurants * the Georgia football program go SIX months without having a player arrested (this may now be a moot point as I wrote this column a few days ago) * a University of Georgia football game held at Riker's Island * more stringent rules/penalties for idiotic parents attending youth sporting events * Mariano Rivera PROVE that he's human * Las Vegas oddsmakers provide an over/under date for when Urban Meyer returns to coaching at some level (I'll say 6/1/12) * Albert Haynesworth do a commercial for fitness equipment * Albert Haynesworth CARE once again * Michael Vick donate HALF his salary to the Humane Society and/or ASPCA * Rajon Rondo become just a 60% free throw shooter * the Dallas Cowboys MATTER again * LPGA golfer Natalie Gulbis request a tour of the TPC in Cromwell from a certain, available sports columnist * a "Straitjacket Day"/giveaway at Citi Field in honor of frustrated N.Y. Mets fans * the Fordham basketball program MATTER again * Joe Paterno PROMISE not to coach past the year 2020 * a new Bowl game--called the "Yet Another" Bowl * Heisman winner Cam Newton's Dad become an auctioneer * a future Wes Welker born somewhere * a future Michael Vick NOT born ANYWHERE * the Carmen Electra 2011 wall calendar included among the media gifts given out at the Travelers Championship * a Michael Vick voodoo doll sold at all PETCO locations * a great-tasting, fat-free bacon cheeseburger * less writer's block (I've said that YEARLY since doing this type of column) * penalties called for STUPIDITY on football players playing defense who make a great hit on a runner and celebrate wildly--AFTER that offensive player has already made a FIRST DOWN on the play * coaches to call out those SAME "all about me" dolts who celebrate wildly when their team is TRAILING 35-0 * finally, health and prosperity for readers of this column. Happy 2011, everyone. - Bob Lazzari

Page 19 January 2011

Wallingford Public Library Children's Library

Bilingual Storytimes

Join Maria Ruiz at the Wallingford Public Library for Me Gustan los Libros; an interactive storytime in Spanish and English! Stories, songs, and activities will be shared on Friday the 28, at 10:00 a.m. in the Children's Program Room. The program is free and open to children ages 3-8 and their grownups.

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How Troop 10 helped me as a Marine in the present.

As a young boy, I was not too keen in making some wise decisions and as time progressed, my parents need­ ed something to tech me some constructive and positive ideologies to aide me in making some better decisions in my life. So at the age of ten or eleven, I went to my first Boy Scout meeting. I saw how everyone was a team and how these young boys were being taught some cool skills out in the wilderness. As I grew it, I really enjoyed Scouting as a whole and as an organization. I remember my first Scoutmaster Adam Zysk and my first camp-out as I was definitely taught to "be prepared". I then met Paul Charest as Adam Zysk stepped down from the current Scoutmaster and I con­ tinued to be in the presence of some excellent leadership and life aides to guide me in the right direction. There have been some boys that started and never continued and those whom I have seen and they have left as they may have been too old to continue as a Boy Scout, but the experiences were one strong memory that has always stuck with me.

As I grew into a better, well rounded young man, I learned that I am soon to be a leader that younger boys will look up to for guidance just like I did. I still had some rough edges, but I was sure to get to the best I can wit h the knowledge, skills and abilities to become a future Eagle Scout. This was my goal in scouting and I was pertinent in reaching this. I knew this would definitely impact my life as a boy and all the way to becoming a man. I soon realized that as I progressed throughout the ranks, I definitely wanted to join the military. So, with the help of Paul Charest, Jaime Ocasio, and Mr. Moore, I learned to appreciate the positive aspects that Scouting has to offer. From this point on, I was set straight on joining the Marine Corps and becoming something better than myself. I learned all I could a as scout during the long and arduous camping and hiking trips all over New England, throughout all of the Jamborees and Camporees. I actually found out that my weird strength was fire starting and knot tying. From there I knew that I had to get to Scout Camp, so in the spring of 1993 I attended my first Scout camp. From there I actually fired my first rifle and earned my rifle shooting merit badge in which I found I really enjoyed this sport.

From this experience, I knew I really liked the whole idea of scouting and wanted to continue on. I met many friends and made quite a few that have helped me in learning about new things within the scouting community. I tried to make all of the camp outs I could so I can get all of the experience that is possible so I can pass this information down to younger scouts as they climbed through the ranks. When I was a life scout, I had a great passion to be a Marine and was already getting in contact with a recruiter so I can join as soon as I made Eagle Scout. As time pro­ gressed, I learned that this actually will help me a small bit in my future endeavors as a Marine. So, with all of my knowledge and expertise that I attained as a Scout, I made Eagle Scout in June 1998 and soon was off to Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. Right after graduation of Marine Corps Boot camp, I returned to see how Troop 10 was doing. I really didn't see too many familiar faces as the past generation of Scouts were either too old or went on to other things. I felt I had to give something back to Scouting as it has helped me out t4remendously. I thank my fellow Scoutmasters (Paul Charest, Jaime Ocasio, Tony Vittoria, Adam Zysk, Carl Brechlin, Rich Goenne and my fellow Scouts) for helping me along the way. I returned to training in School of Infantry and then to my Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) School with a better understanding than many other young Marines.

As time in the Marine Corps went on, we had many parts of training that included "forced marches" or hikes that I used many small tidbits of information from scouting to keep my pack secure and my feet from blistering. Then along came the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York on September 11, 2001. I knew that I was going to deploy in war and the invaluable skills attained in scouting were going to help my fellow Marines as well as myself in the ardu­ ous desert environment of Iraq. On or about February 28, 2003 I was deployed to Kuwait in preparation to attack Iraq.

My squad had been training for this for a while and weirdly enough I knew that many of the "magic" fixes on the gear we had can be done with the use of some duct tape and some scout knowledge. With limited time, the word from then President Bush came to move out and attack Iraq and to take down Saddam Hussein and his regime. In March 2003, the weather was chilly and unpredictable. With some small knowledge of sandstorms and rain even in Iraq was always on my mind. I used the old scout motto "be prepared". I was sure to bring all of the necessities to be prepared for just about anything. During the invasion, only about a few days in, we had our first sand storm which looked like some­ thing out of "The Mummy Returns". We lived in our fighting holes that we spent some time digging during the night time and with some good wisdom from scouting, I was able to create a sunshade and a rain cover to prevent water from filling up our fighting holes. I used some knots and lashings and again, some duct tape to construct this protective layer.

It was working great and I soon was asked to show other fellow Marines how to do the same thing. I then was in a combat zone teaching fellow Marines some basics that I learned while in Troop 10. With constructing a "hasty shelter" every time we stopped which consisted of digging a fighting hole big enough to fit myself and another Marine; the knowledge from scouting was always present and helped me out. Duct tape was just a small part of the necessities that I learned to carry during this time. We traveled all over Iraq in convoys and had to dig our fighting holes during all hours of the night, sometimes when we were being attacked from enemy small arms fire in the distant.

As some of the times went on, I have incorporated knowledge from being a Boy Scout into my career as a U.S. Marine. It has helped me in many ways and with the heat reaching above 120 degrees while wearing our chemical protective suits for months on end; I was able to spot Marines that were reaching dehydration and heat exhaustion. My skills as a scout helped me to spot these Marines and give them water to keep them going and in the fight. At times the deployment seemed to go on and on; we all kept going to reach our objective. We actually reached Tikrit (Saddam City, birthplace of Saddam Hussein), Iraq and we were actually tired of eating our Meals Ready to Eat (MRE's), some Marines saw some gazelles roaming the small airfield and we managed to get about two of them. With the knowledge of fire starting without a lighter or matches learned from many Camporees and Jamborees, this helped us cook the meat safely. I showed some Marines how to start a fire with the use of two sticks. This was a time when the ground was wet from recent rains and nothing seemed to work as we have been in the desert of Iraq for almost five months now, barely able to keep clean. The fire and the cleaning or field stripping of the animal was a motivational tool that I also learned while on a campout when they were hunting pheasants. All of the while I can look back and see that scouting and these fine leaders of Troop 10 have taught me valuable skills that I have kept close to my heart.

With my first deployment over, I had deployed many times after and my last deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom was in 2007. I am married with a 5 month year old daughter and have been in the active duty Marine Corps for over 12 years. I have completed my bachelor degree in criminal jus­ tice, minor in forensics with a 3.9 GPA while on the Alpha Beta Kappa and National Society of Collegiate Scholars, high honors societies for criminal justice students. I will be stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune here in the future with 8th Engineer Support Battalion. I want to thank all of my former scout masters and fellow scouts that have helped me out in learning all I can while a Boy Scout in Troop 10.

Page 20 January 2011

As always, It’s Free to send Photo Wishes, Stories and more for the February 2011 issue of The People’s Press! The deadline is February 4th! Email to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com!

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