The People's Press July 2010 Issue

Get Happy With It!

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LocalMotion - Your Town, Your News, Your Views! July 2010 • Volume 10, Issue 129

Wallingford Flower & Gift Shoppe

190 Center Street. 203.265.1514

An Elephant's Buried In Wallingford. What???!!!

Miss India as a baby in 1940 I was on the phone chatting with my good friend Kathy Marotta on June 8th. We were talking about a number of things, and she was reminiscing about her brother Paulie returning from Okinawa, Japan. After his return, there were a few problems in the family home, so his mother basically kicked him out. (He did come home again after a few weeks.) One day Kathy was outside watching the circus come down her street and she saw her brother following behind. She was shouting to him across the street, "Paulie, come home." Okay, that's kind of interesting about her brother, but I said, "What? A circus came to Wallingford?" "Oh, yeah," she replied. "They passed right by our house on East Street. We'd all be outside yelling, 'Here come Barnum & Bailey! Here comes Barnum & Bailey!'" I said, "WHAT? A circus came by your house?" I've been living in Wallingford since 1982, and somehow this fact has never crossed my path. I was intrigued. "Oh, yeah, the elephants were all dressed up in their costumes and the performers were all marching down to where the tents were set up, where the Wallingford Airport used to be." She described the elephants as being docile and yet spectacular, extravagant and proud. Before I had a chance to say much more, Kathy then nonchalantly said, "You know, there's an elephant buried in Wallingford." "WHAT???" "Yeah, an elephant died here and was buried near the Electric Division." I was dumbfounded. This information piqued my curiosity, and I had to find out more about it. My first stop was at the Wallingford Public Library and their Connecticut Room. They had a tiny folder called "Circus" with very little information, but it was enough to get

me started. I searched many websites, wrote to museums, and contacted the Wallingford Historical Society, but there is scant information available. I'm going to tell you the story in a minute, but one gentleman, Jerome Jacobson, spotted a post of mine on a circus site and wrote to me privately. He supplied me with the only photos I was able to locate, so I am grateful for his kind assistance. He is a former clown, by the way. Her name was Miss India. She was the species known as Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), and she came from India. I don't know when, however. I do know she was with the Bud E. Anderson Circus in 1940. Sometime after that she was purchased by the Polack Brothers Circus, and in 1950 she was sold to the Mills Brothers Circus. It turns out a lot of different circuses came to Wallingford every year, but on Sunday, June 28, 1953, the Mills Brothers came to town. (Kathy was born in May of that year, so of course she doesn't remember this..) As The Morning Record indicated in the paper on Monday, June 29th, "The Mills Brothers Circus, sponsored by the Wallingford Lions Club, rolled into town yesterday and hundreds of local children and adults thronged the grounds for a pre-performance glimpse. There were elephants and trained dogs, ponies and white horses, special acts and monkeys, a big top and several smaller tops. There were goats and a camel, and all the colorful caravan that goes with the show." The article indicated there would be an afternoon and evening show that day, which helped me clarify a couple of things that were reported incorrectly in an article dated June 30, 1980. Continued on Page 3

Page 2 July 2010

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Page 3 July 2010

An Elephant's Buried In Wallingford. What???!!! Continued from Page 1

CELEBRATIONS

The Tin Knight and Dragon battle in the Rockies on our recent trip there. Submitted by Barbara N.

CELEBRATIONS

One of the Mills Bros. elephants, possibly Miss Burma, performing circa 1950 The Morning Record dated July 2nd, 1953, reported this: "'India,' one of the performing elephants of the circus, died Monday night after the evening performance and was buried Tuesday on the former local airport property." I was able to verify her date of death as June 29, 1953, on an elephant site I went to, and it said she died of a heart attack. I have no idea how old she was. In the article from 1980 entitled "Excavator recalls burying a visiting circus elephant," it said, "60 people, mostly children, gathered at the South Cherry Street circus site to watch the marvelous beast be lowered into a hole 15 to 20 feet deep." The article also mentioned, "Despite a plea in 1955 for a headstone marking the remains of the largest animal ever buried in Wallingford, Miss India's grave is unmarked." That's kind of sad. Two sentences in the Morning Record article of 1980 caught my eye because they were not correct. I didn't know this immediately until I dug into things a bit. "The tents were set up for the next day's performance in 1953 when Miss India died during the night. In true circus tradition, the show did go on, but without the youngest member of the Mills Brothers' 40-elephant troupe." Well, the show was always set up in the morning on show day and was torn down at night, and you know now that she died after the evening performance, but 40-elephant troupe? Not possible. Through my travels I was able to determine that the Mills Brothers more than likely had a total of 9 elephants at that time, which included Miss Burma (the Republican Party mascot), Minnie, Bunny, Jenny, Lelabardi, Lena, Dixie, and Miss India. I am missing one name, but it's close to complete. I found out from Jerome Jacobson that one of the slogans used by the Mills Brothers was "40 tons of elephants!" which makes a whole lot more sense than 40 elephants. My friend Kathy only remembers Barnum and Bailey coming to town, but there were other circuses which came through here, including the Hunt Brothers, King Brothers, Hills Brothers, Cole Brothers, and probably many more. A little interesting note before I continue, Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus was one of very few circuses that traveled by train.. The vast majority, including the Mills Brothers, traveled by truck. I found a website called winterquartersltd.com, and Bruce Johnson posted these memories of the Ringling Bros. on his website: "One of Bruce Johnson's earliest recollections was his mother calling him to the front yard on an early July day in 1944. The railroad tracks lay down the hill about a quarter mile away. The view of the passing train was like seeing so many colorfully wrapped Christmas presents being paraded before his eyes. It was the great Ringling Bros., Barnum & Bailey circus train, en route to Hartford, Connecticut. He pleaded with his mother to take him to Hartford to see the show, scheduled for the next day. But it was wartime. Gas was expensive. And Daddy had to work. On July 7, exceptionally bold, black headlines covered the front page of the morning paper. A month after D Day, everyone was accustomed to bold headlines. But this was different. The circus had burned to the ground, costing 168 lives, mainly women and children... Long recovered from the fire, Ringling played Wallingford, Connecticut, his hometown, for a couple of seasons a few years later. The magic of transforming the nearly abandoned airport near the town dump into a huge, magnificent wonderland in a single day, only to disappear the next day, was incredibly fascinating... Whenever possible, Bruce was there as the magic unfolded on some dusty empty lot." In the Wallingford Post dated June 10, 1954, I read this: "If you set your clock for about 4 a.m. this morning and headed for Wallingford Airport, you would have seen one of the traditional scenes of the United States - the circus coming to town. Arriving in town in gleaming cars from their last stop in Waterbury, the Barnum and Bailey, Ringling Bros. Circus unloaded car after car of animals, and early risers on Cherry Street could see the elephants plodding down to their station at the airport." In my mind, I was assuming they were unloading the cars at the railroad station, which is close to South Cherry Street, but, no. There was a freight station located on North Cherry Street, built in 1910. The building is still there. I took a drive to check it out. You can see a picture of it on page 54 in "Images of America, Wallingford." Let me tell you, it was not a short walk from there to the airport. In the 1980 article there is reference to the burial site of Miss India. "It is buried 100 feet in front of one of the two hangars left over from the Wallingford Airport, Audisio said. The tusks were removed before burial." Just as a side note, female Asian elephants frequently have no tusks at all, but when they do, they are so small you can only see them if they open their mouth, so they probably were not very big. But where did they wind up? In that same book, "Images of America, Wallingford," on page 60 it says, "One of the hangars is still used as a storage building by the Wallingford Electric Division at the corner of John and East Streets." By the way, it was the Lufbery Airport named for Major Raoul Lufbery of World War I renown. So is the remaining hangar the one Miss India was buried in front of? Kathy has promised to take me on a walking trip to the spot, as she says she remembers exactly where it was. She and a friend of hers had made a makeshift cross and placed it on the grave along with flowers when she was perhaps nine years old. This is really a story about Miss India, who found her resting place in a most unlikely location, our fine town, and there are probably a lot of Wallingford residents who have never heard about her. I think it's about time that she gets the recognition and place in history that she deserves, and that a proper headstone be placed at her grave. Yes? Photos courtesy of William (Buckles) Woodcock and Jerome Jacobson. By Barbara Sherburne - barndt49 @yahoo.com In memory of Miss India, I submit this story to Andy Reynolds, by sheer coincidence or synchronicity, on June 29, 2010, exactly 57 years after the death of this marvelous creature. EXTRA! IMPORTANT NEWS ABOUT MISS INDIA IN THIS ISSUE!

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Page 4 July 2010

Mayor's Corner - Wallingford Dear Friends: Our Parks and Recreation Department and Stop and Shop Supermarkets are sponsoring the Twilight Tunes Concert Series for this summer. On Wednesdays, July 14, and July 21 at 7:00 p.m. each night, concerts will entertain people on the Parade Ground beside Town Hall. It is also an opportunity to window shop and enjoy good food in one of the many wonderful restaurants in the downtown. At 7:00 p.m. the Funk Brokers Band, Disco Inferno Band and the Late for Dinner Band will fill the air on respective Wednesdays in July. On Wednesday, July 28th the Hyperflight Frisbee Dog Competition will take place at 6:00 p.m. at Doolittle Park with a rain date of Thursday, July 29th. The "R" Band Concert Series, under the direction of Patricia Lignelli and sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department and the Wallingford Senior Center, will be held on Thursday evenings, July 15th, 22nd, and 29th at 6:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. In August, on Wednesday the11th, back on the Parade Ground, the Latanya Farrell & the Bookman Styles Band will perform. Don't miss Benny and the Jets, the Blue Agaves and the 101 Band on the following Wednesdays. We thank the talented musicians who will participate and the people who have planned this very enjoyable series. We hope to see you on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer. Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr., Mayor

Mayor's Corner - Meriden The Cole Brothers Circus came to downtown Meriden for two days and five shows (adding an additional show due to popular demand) on June 30 and July 1. What a show and what a turnout! Downtown Meriden proved to be the perfect venue for the circus as attendees found easy access and parking very convenient. The 14 acres of flat space at the Hub made for easy set up and provided plenty of area for all the circus' needs. Circus Marketing Director, Rodney West, commented "Everything went great in Meriden. This was one of our top venues this year with over 9,000 attendees. It was also the first time a mayor attended all our shows. We will be back!" It sure was a wonderful feeling to host a fun, positive,

and safe event in downtown Meriden for several thousand event goers. When was the last time our downtown was filled with so many people having a good time? Many families with children and also grandparents were seen in the crowd. Numerous non profit groups took advantage of free children's tickets to provide a memorable experience for children. Attendees came from all over central Connecticut to enjoy the circus. Plans are underway to bring the circus back next year; the circus management guarantees a new circus line-up every year. We'll also be thinking up more positive events and activities for our downtown area. In addition to the circus, we have had other fun filled outdoor events for families recently. The First Annual Italian Night at Hubbard Park was a great success as a large crowd enjoyed the songs of Sinatra and Tony Bennett. They also sampled fresh made pizzas by Papa Larosa's Pizza Oven and sausage and peppers sandwiches dished out by the Meriden Unison Club. The event also generated much needed funds for the Unison Club and Meriden Boys and Girls Club. Plans are underway for next years' festival. The 21st Annual Meriden Black Expo at City Park was a great success featuring live entertainment on stage, numerous food booths, children's amusements, and vendors offering a wide range of items for attendees. Many families were able to walk to the event in their neighborhood. This year's expo was preceded by the Meriden Black Teen Ambassador Pageant, a fine event featuring the showcasing of talent and poise by area students. Westfield Meriden partnered with the city of Meriden to host the 2nd Annual Westfield Fireworks and Deck Party at the mall. This event featured live bands, children's amusements, an assortment of food offerings and a spectacular fireworks display. What an enjoyable night for all. Coming up on Sunday August 15, the 43rd Annual Puerto Rican Festival will take place at Hubbard Park. Local police officer Hector Cardona Sr. is the chairman of this years' festival. Hector commented, "This year's festival will be more exciting than ever with live Salsa and Meringue bands, dancing, a wide variety of Latin food offerings, cultural tent, many children's amusements, and vendor booths. Mark your calendars and join us for a fun day on August 15th". Meriden is most fortunate to have a diverse community which contributes to our richness and vitality. We are a community that respects, values, and welcomes the many different cultures who live and work in our community. This makes Meriden a very special city. Warm Regards, Mike Rohde, Mayor of Meriden

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Page 5 July 2010

Boulder Field

Lighthouse - Beautiful Art by Susan Nalewajk

People’s Press Crossword July 2010 Answers. Puzzle by Ruth Gordon.

by Samantha Schafer As a child, my family frequently visited Boulder Field in Hickory Run State Park, Pennsylvania. I loved playing and scampering over the boulders in the field. For years, I wondered about why the rocks accumulated in that manner. As an aspiring geologist, it is incredible to know that I was playing on the very same rocks that form the largest boulder field in the Appalachian Mountains. Approximately 400 by 1,600 feet and at least 12 feet deep, Boulder Field is an unusual formation of glacial origin that was formed over 20,000 years ago during the last ice age. Ice nearly one mile thick covered most of Canada and part of the United States. This glacier ended less than one mile north of Boulder Field and cooled the climate of this area dramatically. Boulder Field was formed from the extremes of hot and cold temperatures on a cliff that resulted from nearby glaciers. The freezing and thawing of the ground fluctuated as the temperatures changed. The water melted and seeped into tiny cracks in the cliff that is now Boulder Field. The water froze and expanded and eventually widened the cracks. This happened many times over thousands of years and eventually, the outcrop began to break apart into smaller rocks and boulders. Over time, the entire cliff was broken apart and slowly created Boulder Field. This field of rocks was continually broken into smaller pieces by erosion and weathering. Soon, water rich sand and soil surrounded the boulders. The water in the soil froze and expanded towards the surface. This lifted larger boulders higher than smaller boulders due to the greater surface area possessed by the larger boulders. Around 13,000 years ago, the ice sheet melted and the boulders stopped moving. Sand settled into the crevices between the boulders. The rest was washed away and only the boulders remained. Boulder field was many times its current size but forests slowly encroached and caused its size to decrease. The water that shaped the entire landscape is still in the soil underneath Boulder Field. If you listen closely as you sit in the field, you can hear water flowing underneath the rocks. This water eventually becomes the headwaters of Hickory Run, which is the creek that gives the name to Hickory Run State Park. Boulder Field has remained essentially unchanged for the past 20,000 years. It was named a National Natural Landmark in 1967. Its diversity and importance to the understanding of the geologic history of the Appalachian Mountains makes Boulder Field a deserving honoree. Hickory Run State Park captures the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains in an accessible way. Boulder Field, along with the entire State Park, is a great place to visit. The park has plenty of hiking trails, a lake, waterfalls, and camping that is enjoyable for people of all ages. For more information on Hickory Run State Park, please visit: www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/hickoryrun.aspx

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Page 6 July 2010

Meriden Health Department News and Events Summer Fun for the Whole Family! It's summertime - the season of popsicles, sidewalk chalk, cookouts and fun in the sun! The kids are out of school, adults are on vacation and it's time for outdoor activities such as riding bikes and camping. Keep the family entertained all summer long with these activity ideas from the Meriden Health Department: 1. Take a hike! Meriden has many wonderful hiking trails for hikers and walkers of all activity levels. The Meriden Land Trust has updated hiking trail maps on their website - www.meridenlandtrust.com. Turn your trip into a scavenger hunt by looking for different flowers and birds! Before you head out, make sure you apply bug spray - especially if you are going to be hiking at dawn or dusk. Read the label carefully and follow directions for use. 2. Visit a farmer's market! Farmer's markets across Connecticut will be opening soon. Learn where your food comes from by visiting a local market or farm. Plan a weekly family meal with the fresh produce you purchase. Visit www.buyctgrown.com for a list of local farmer's markets. 3. Hit the beach! Planning a trip to the beach this summer? Don't forget to pack sunscreen (check the expiration date and if it is waterproof/sweat proof), aloe, your sunglasses, a hat, and, if you have one, a beach umbrella. If you are staying closer to home and relaxing poolside, make sure young children are always supervised by an adult when they are in the pool no matter how well they can swim. 4. Family cycling trip! Tune up those bikes and plan an afternoon of bike riding with your family. Review the rules of the road and safety tips before you head out. Tips are available at the Health Department; we also sell adult and child bike helmets for only $7.50 - call 203-630-4234 for more information. 5. Have some backyard fun! There are many adventures waiting for you and your family in your own backyard. Classic games like horseshoes, bocci, water balloon toss and hide and seek are fun for the whole family. Use your imagination and come up with your own fun games the whole family can enjoy! Whatever you do this summer, have fun and be safe! If you have any questions please contact the Meriden Health Department Community Health Education office at 203-630-4238. Become a fan of the Meriden Health Department on FACEBOOK! Do you live or work in Meriden? Do you have a Facebook account? If you answered "yes" to these questions, consider becoming a fan of the City of Meriden Health Department! On our Facebook page we will be posting: * The latest public health news and updates for Meriden, including timely health and wellness tips * Notices of upcoming community events and services, including our flyers * Photos from community events Search for us under City of Meriden Health Department. Encourage other residents to sign up! If you have any questions please call the Community Health Education office at 203-630-4238. Save the Date! Community Wednesday Block Party to be held July 14! A community block party will be held on Wednesday, July 14, from 10:00am-4:00pm at the Meriden HUB. All of Meriden is invited! The purpose of this event is to bring the City of Meriden a day of festivities along with positive resources, interactive activities and information from community organizations. This event will also be broadcast live on Hot 93.7! This event is being sponsored by the Meriden Housing Authority, the Meriden/Wallingford NAACP and the Meriden Health Department. If it rains the party will be held on Wednesday, August 18. If you have any questions, contact Teri Ramos at Meriden Housing, 203-235-0157 ext. 229. A Special Day for Special People The 40 th annual "Special Day for Special People" picnic for Meriden senior citizens and long term care residents was held on Saturday, June 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hubbard Park. The program opened with a flag-raising ceremony by the Meriden Antique Veterans and musical entertainment was provided from the band shell by Vinnie Carr throughout the day. Seniors enjoyed a picnic, bingo with prizes, and dancing with volunteers from Lincoln Middle School. Our thanks to the community businesses, the Meriden City Council, the Advisory Board on Aging, and all the volunteers who made this event possible.

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CELEBRATIONS

Girl Scout Troop 66070 of Israel Putnam Elementary School sold a lot of Girl Scout Cookies this year! With the proceeds, our Troop enjoyed a beautiful Sunday in Boston, Massachusetts. The girls took a mini bus up to Boston to enjoy a morning at the New England Aquarium. We learned about jelly fish, saw a fur seal training show, observed a marine veterinary center and saw lots of exciting creatures under the sea. In the afternoon we hopped on-board a Duck Tour! We had a very funny tour guide that gave us a historical tour of Boston's history and then the amphibious vehicle took us onto the Charles River to continue the tour! The driver, "Duck Tape" allowed the girls to drive the vehicle in the river! We had fun, learned a lot and had another fabulous Girl Scouting experience!

CELEBRATIONS

Alaina Montgomery celebrated her 7th birthday with her friends at Villari's Martial Arts Center in North Haven, CT on June 27, 2010. Instead of receiving gifts for herself, Alaina asked that her friends bring a donation to benefit the animals at the Wallingford Animal Shelter. Alaina says that she has a very special feeling in her heart and can not wait to celebrate her next birthday so she can do the same thing again! Thank you's go out to Hannah & Ryan Martin, Makayla Mansur, Amelia Mansfield, Joshua Kaplan, Honora Saccu, Gretchen Seibt, Jillian Burns, Matthew Zuccaro, Julia Tangari, Colby Dahl, Emerson Chvisuk, Bonnie Zitomer, and Kim Funaro for making this a birthday to remember!

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Husband to Marie G.(Maruca) Vincent of East Haven. Father to Robert E.Vincent (Kimberly)of Wallingford, Kathleen M. Vincent of North Branford, Edmond R.J. Vincent Jr (Melissa) of East Haven Grandfather to Samantha and Rebekah Vincent, Nicole and Makayla Harrison, Kaitlyn Vincent. We LOVE & MISS You!!!!!!!!!!!

Page 7 July 2010

HOW ABOUT A STAYCATION THIS SUMMER

CELEBRATIONS

By Phyllis S. Donovan I don't know about you but the very thought of leaving home several hours early in time to stand in congested airport lines just to check in for a flight, then waiting interminably to go through the tedious security process before hanging around for hours in the gate area for a flight to be announced is something I'd rather avoid. Since my husband has hardware in his back from various operations, the security process is even more time-consuming. He always sets off the security beepers and is hauled off to be wanded, frisked and otherwise questioned and examined with nobody ever bothering to even look at the card he carries from the doctor explaining his medical reason for setting off their alarms. Meanwhile, I'm left at the end of the conveyor belt to collect both of our carryons, two pairs of shoes, his camera, watch and whatever else he was carrying in his pockets and transfer the whole of it off to the side and out of the way of other folks claiming their possessions. After all that, I am not a comfortable flyer. Thanks to my husband's wanderlust, we have chalked up more flying miles than most folks flitting around the world, but I still get queasy boarding a plane. I don't like the sensation of taking off, I can't sleep during the flight because every time the sound of the engines changes or we hit a patch of turbulence, I worry. (A 17 hour wakeful flight to Bangkok threw my system off for days.) And I think landing is one of the scariest times of all. (No wonder some people clap when they get back safely to terra firma after a hairy flight. I don't clap but I do offer up a prayer of thanks.) All of this is part of my campaign for a stayvacation this year. What's wrong with staying comfortably here in our own home and relaxing for the summer? Personally, that is my idea of the perfect vacation. At this stage in my life, I'd much rather spend my money going to deliciously air-conditioned movies or live theater shows for entertainment than traipsing around the world. And there are also lots of free things to do. Every week in the summer there are musical concerts planned in parks and town centers all over our area. The Wadsworth Mansion in Middlefield has Wednesday evening outdoor concerts reminiscent of Tanglewood in the Berkshires, with people setting up picnics all over the expansive lawn to enjoy wonderful music. Right here in downtown Meriden, Steve Robichaud of the Sandman Gallery has rallied downtown merchants to sponsor weekly mid-day summer concerts on Wednesdays from noon to 2 p.m. on the patio between his gallery and Middlesex College. Bring your lunch or grab a sandwich from a nearby downtown eatery like Café Dolce, Paul's Café, Cassidy's or the Polish deli and enjoy the music. Then why not walk two doors down the street to the Friends of the Library Bookstore and grab a couple of books ("summer read" paperbacks are only 50 apiece now) to take to the beach or just relax and read in your own backyard. Both the Meriden and Wallingford libraries have great children's programs scheduled for the summer where parents can bring in their kids where it's cool and browse for their own books while the kids are entertained. What could be better? For folks interested in the more cultural kind of entertainment, ArtFarm is presenting Shakespeare's romantic comedy "As You Like It" in their Shakespeare in the Grove series at Middlesex Community College in Middletown July 811 and July 15-18 at 7 p.m. Go early to get a nice spot on the grounds and have a picnic. If you aren't interested in being entertained, we have plenty of beautiful parks in the area where you can just sit outside, enjoy nature and watch the world go by. Summer is short, make the best of it!

Kevin, Kyle, Michelle Gwara Armstrong, Lester the Dolphin, Duane

CELEBRATIONS

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Giovanni and Rosa from Rosa’s Deli

Sean from the Wallingford Family YMCA

Bonnie from Haberli Electric

Michael from Michael's Trattoria

Laura from Meriden Dance Center

Michelle from Pralines of Wallingford

Jay from Cassidy’s Diner

Adam Richman from Man V. Food with Bill from World Famous Ted's Steamed Cheeseburgers

Alan from Alan’s Cup & Saucer

Page 8 July 2010

Take a Trip with the Wallingford Family YMCA! The Wallingford Family YMCA are offering the following Luxury coach bus trips: Nantucket (Aug. 21);Atlantic City(Sept. 1719);Niagara Falls(Sept. 24-26);New Hampshire(Fall Foliage-Oct. 2), Boston on your own(Oct. 16); Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Dec. 4, 5 or Dec. 12); and Radio City Christmas Show and Atlantic City(Dec. 5-6).. Pre-Registration is required. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

SPECIAL THANKS

The picture above will show you the area in front of the gymnasium at Hanover School located on Main Street in South Meriden that has recently been cleaned out of bushes and weeds. The area now shows the three monuments that were buried by the scrubs and weeds for many years The left marker is in memory of departed members of South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department The center is a marker in memory of beloved Hanover School Principle Elizabeth Meah and the big rock monument to the right is in memory of South Meriden residents who served in W.W.II. dated 1941-1946. I want to thank Principal Cardona, I contacted him on Monday June 7th and asked him to see if he could have the school maintenance staff clean the area up so that the monuments and flag pole would be visible again. Well on Tuesday June 8th the area was all cleaned up and with in a week it had new plantings and mulch. I want to thank Principal Cardona for his quick response to my request. Now the monuments and the flag are very visible and can be shared with everyone Thank you again! Keith Gordon Meriden Area 4 City Councilor

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203-889-8564 P.O. BOX 4256 YALESVILLE, CT 06492

Through a Child's Eyes - Eddie "spaghetti" Siebert Director of Constituent Services - Meriden This is a new series of articles so that you can get to know public servants in Meriden and how they can help you. Eddie "spaghetti" Siebert was born and raised on Meriden's West side near Hubbard Park...He had tree forts where I 691 now tears through the forest and he hiked every trail that criss crosses and reaches Castle Craig., often blazing a few trails of his own in those parts. After finishing grammar school at St. Marys School Eddie went on to Platt High School where he became active in many activities and excelled in Baseball and Basketball where he Was Captain of both teams for several consecutive years... Upon graduation he went off to Florida starting with Stetson University in Deland Florida...after two years there Eddie was introduced to the University of Florida campus in Gainesville Florida where he finished his degree and graduated from the Warrington School of Business Administration with a degree in Marketing. Immediately upon graduation Eddie was hired right from the campus and drove home to Connecticut and then on to Boston where he worked in and around the greater Boston "high tech" area. " I enjoyed the five years I had up there, but there was one thing that was missing from my Eddie with several of the books he has authored and life: my family...and although the salary was significant it holding his new book “Today Meriden.” didn't outweigh the one thing that meant more to me than money...my hometown, and being with my parents and brothers and sisters !" Upon returning to Meriden Eddie worked for his family business, Meriden Insurance and Travel, He started a career in Real Estate and still holds his license and remains active in the market both with commercial land residential sales... The highlight of his immediate return was the overseas travel adventures to the European Alps...which took Eddie and his ski friends to the highest points in the French Alps...His favorite spot on Earth..."At 13,000 feet atop the Agui Midi, in Chamonix, France, you look one way and you see Italy, the other way and Switzerland...then you look down and ski like you have never skied before.!" This trip inspired one of Eddie's children's books titled WISHBONE MAGIC...that books was inspired by a flight that he took on a 'day off' from skiing when Eddie and another group of friends 'ran off a cliff"....We hand glided from a midstation in The French Alps...that flight was so unreal that I had to write about the experience and in that book I wished I was a bird for a day..."that was the closet I ever was to being a bird" its was beautiful.... So with that thought in mind Eddie then went on to write nine more Educational Children's Books and toured the East Coast sharing his rhyming tales with children, students, parents and teachers...and in his journeys he adopted the name "Eddie Spaghetti" and to this day he is know far and wide by that pen name.... Recently Eddie was appointed by Mayor Michael Rohde as his "wingman' or more officially the Director of Constituent Services. At the Mayors Office Eddie does an array of tasks from organizing and booking Circuses to helping taxpayers with municipal concerns complaints...The whole time Eddie keeps his 'ART DEPARTMENT" nearby and has filled this City hall desk and car with everything from colored pencils, to computer graphics to Sharpie Markers....One of his recent brainstorms was the Pizza Paddle Sponsorship effort where he actually 'handmade" over 30 paddles into 'masterpieces' for the Italian Night event...The proceeds represented nearly half of the total profits for the evening...So "Through a child's eye- Eddie remains positive about Meriden, his hometown, and has the belief that if you share that same enthusiasm with others it will be contagious. " I take my job for Mayor Mike very seriously, at the same time I try to be nice to people, consistently, and at the same time add a little creativity in everything I do....I try to look at the mundane, the black and white, and see how I could add color to it so to speak.." Meriden has just come off a fabulous stream of entertainment with the Cole Brother Circus and we intend to keep that momentum going. Through my eyes, a child eye, I am penning an Educational Children's Books about Meriden!!! Its Title...Today Meriden and it is about our beautiful city, its assets and how cool it is to PROUD OF YOUR HOMETOWN. It will follow a similar format as Eddie's most recent book release, which was called, DESTINATION YMCA. This book evolved out of Eddie's role as Community Relations Liaison to the Meriden Y and his efforts as a marketer for the Meriden Y. With the help of the community's student artist, Eddie was a able to produce a children's book that was illustrated entirely by a select group of children who submitted their artwork for consideration in the book. Destination YMCA tells the reader about the many faces of the Meriden Y...and through literacy and the child's eye... it takes the reader on a journey to the YMCA via their imagination. I have had the opportunity to travel all over the world...And I am grateful t have seen other lands...but there is no place like home and as far as the grass being greener on the other side....Take a step back and take a deep breath. Meriden is a green as it gets. You can reach Eddie at 203.639.6595 or email him at ESiebert@ci.meriden.ct.us.

My Life in Moments - Sweet Summer By Alexis Sulinski I got in late last night. I was with my next door neighbors, drinking wine and dancing barefoot in celebration of their 21st wedding anniversary. The night before, I was drinking wine with my other next door neighbors, celebrating……..drinking wine with my neighbors. Fortunately, I am both a night owl AND an early riser, which is how I came to be sitting in front of my computer typing at 5:00 AM. It occurred to me that the story I needed to write was about the reasons it wasn't getting written. We store moments of memories, not continual narratives. When I look back at things I've done in life, I rarely make mental lists of accomplishments, no matter how satisfying some of those individual moments may have been. What I think about instead are moments with the people who were beside me when these things took place. School is the friends I've made there. Childhood summers are the kids on my baseball team. Christmas is my brother's children. Work is my co-workers and all of their quirks and coffee preferences. Even my memories of being treated for cancer are oddly sweet. I don't think of chemo, but of the wonderful friends and family who took care of me during that time. Now another summer of happy moments stretches out before me. We have a couple of trips planned, some projects to work on, and a garden to take care of. All of these things are interesting enjoyable ways to spend our time, but what I'm really looking forward to is all the people we'll see and all the moments we will experience together.

HYPERFLITE FRISBEE DOG COMPETITION Wallingford Park and Recreation Department Since 1993 our department has been offering this spectacular event. We started in 1993 with 6 dogs and their owners and have grown this event to over 50 dogs. We look forward to new participants and welcome back our old friends. Join us at Doolittle Park on Wednesday July 28th at 6:00p.m. Rain date: July 29th. Pack you picnic dinner, and watch unbelievable leaps, bounds and catches by our four-legged friends. Please all dogs must be leashed when not participating…Plaques for the top three finishers provided by Hyperflight.

Wallingford Land Trust Work Party Saturday July 17, 2010 9:00 am-12:00 pm Meet at the cul-de-sac on Barns Road North (entrance to Spruce Glen property). Yes work can be fun (as long as it's not at the office). That why it's a work PARTY! On the third Saturday of every month we will do various small property maintenance projects such as trash pickup, trail clearing, erosion control, sign and blaze improvement and the like. The work party will start at 9:00am and last about 3 to 4 hours. We will visit each of our properties and pickup trash at the access points. For more information contact David Ellis at 203-269-9779. Hope to see you there.

Page 9 July 2010

JULY EVENTS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY SUMMER HOURS Starting July 1, the Meriden Public Library summer hours will be as follows: open Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9:30 am to 8:30 pm. Thursday and Friday, open 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. The library will be closed on Saturdays and Sundays from July 4 through Labor Day weekend. We will resume our Saturday hours on September 11. Visit the library's homepage at www.meridenlibrary.org to log onto the online catalog, use the magazine database, check out our museum passes, or check out our calendar of adult and children's programs. Please contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you would like more information about the library's services. 'NORTH TO ALASKA" JULY 14 Join us on Wednesday, July 14 at 7:00 pm in the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room for Jack Brooks' presentation "North to Alaska" travel program. Mr.. Brooks will guide us through the beautiful state of Alaska with pictures from his trip in August 2009. Starting in Vancouver, Mr. Brooks will take us through the Tracy Arm fjord, Juneau, glaciers, Skagway, Fairbanks, and Denali National Park. The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 for more information. GREEN UP YOUR YARD WITH ORGANIC YARD AND LAWN CARE JULY 28 Green Up Your Yard with Organic Land and Lawn Care: Save Money and the Environment, a workshop, will be offered by the Organic Land Care Program, a project of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Connecticut, (CT NOFA) at Meriden Public Library on Wednesday, July 28 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room. The free, informative workshop will be presented by local accredited organic landscaping professional Cathy Zbuska. This workshop will provide the tools and informational resources needed to practice organic lawn and landscape care, as well as information on the benefits of organic land care. Participants will receive a handout of resources they can use to find more information, and on finding a landscaper who has the knowledge to maintain lawns and landscapes organically. CT NOFA promotes methods of farming, gardening, and land care that respect biodiversity, soil, water, air and the needs of future generations through education, support, and advocacy. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library's web page at www.Meridenlibrary.org to reserve a seat. WRITERS NETWORK AT MERIDEN LIBRARY JULY 28 Meriden Public Library will host a Writers Network group on Wednesday, July 28 at 7:00 p.m. in the Friends Room. We invite anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter to attend. The Writers Network is for anyone who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing. If you are interested in joining the Writers Network, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email us comsvc@hotmail.com. SCRABBLE JULY 12 AND 26 Join us on Monday July 12 and July 26 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the Friends Room at Meriden Public Library to play scrabble. Come to learn the game. Come to practice. Come just to meet new people. All are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 for more information. FREE COMPUTER CLASSES Meriden Public Library offers the following free computer classes during the month of July: Basic computers - Monday, July 12 and July 26 at 6:00 pm to 6:45 pm; Email - Monday, July 19 at 6:00 pm to 6:45 pm; Computer Class in Spanish - Each Monday and Wednesday in July at 5:00 to 6:00 pm and 6:00 to 7:00 pm. Class size is limited. Contact the library at (203) 238-2346 or (203) 630-6349 to register for any class. TEEN BOOK CLUB JULY 15 The Teen Book Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Thursday, July 15 at 3:30 in the Seminar Room. We will be discussing The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Bank written by E. Lockhart. Boarding school sophomore Frances "Frankie" Landau-Banks is tired of being underestimated by the men in her life, including her boyfriend Matthew and his wittier-thanthou friends. She discovers his secret male club, and, unbeknownst to them, begins orchestrating their elaborate pranks. Come join us as we talk about the book and snack on some food. You can sign up at the information desk, on our website or just drop in. If you have any questions e-mail Melissa at mmurphy@ci.meriden.ct.us or call (203) 630-6347. GET YOUR GAME ON @ MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY JULY 20 Get your game on at the Meriden Public Library on Tuesday July 20 at 12:30 pm in the Griffin Room. The Wii will be set up for friends and family to challenge each other to a different game each week. Board games such as Scrabble, Apples to Apples and many others will also be available for use. All ages are welcome to attend including parents and guardians. Registration is not required. If you have any questions please contact Melissa at mmurphy@ci.meriden.ct.us or call (203) 630-6349. LEGO CLUB JULY 22 Meriden Public Library will have its next Lego Club event on Thursday, July 22 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room. Children ages 6 through 12 are invited to bring their imagination and build on this month's theme - "Robots". Completed projects will be put on display in the library. The library will provide Legos for all children who attend. Sign up is not required for this program. If you have any questions or would like to be put on the Lego Club mailing list please contact Melissa at (203) 630-6347 or mmurphy@ci.meriden.ct.us . ANIME CLUB JULY 23 The Teen Anime Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Friday, July 23 at 2:30 pm in the Griffin Room. In the first half hour teens will learn about the art of origami and at 3:00 the monthly anime screening will begin. Snacks and drinks will be provided. This program is for teens age 13-18. Sign up is not required but if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like more information contact Melissa at mmurphy@ci.meriden.ct.us or call (203) 238-2347.

The Book Seller at the Wallingford Public Library The Book Seller at the Wallingford Public Library summer hours are: Monday 10:00 to 6:00, Wednesday 1:00 to 8:00 and Friday 10:00 to 4:00 starting Friday July 2. The Book Seller is located at the back of the library at 200 North Main Street; look for the green awning. The special for the month of August is all children's and young adult books are 2 for the price of one (higher price prevails). Also, all large print hardcovers will be $1.00 and regular paperbacks are 3 for $1.00. The Book Seller offers gently used books, CDs, DVD, videos and other materials for children, young adults and adults at very low prices. It is a great place to browse as materials are added every week. Gift certificates are also available for purchase. Due to the generosity of many, the Wallingford Public Library's Book Seller used book store has an over-abundance of stock, and has suspended the acceptance of donations for the month of July.

CELEBRATIONS

Wallingford Garden Club Installs New Officers New officers for the Wallingford Garden Club were installed at the June 8 meeting held at the 95 House restaurant. The annual luncheon was held during National Garden Club Week. The installation was presided over by Donna Nowak, President of the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut who compared the the women to the diamond, the most popular gem known for strength, power and love. Barbara Bruce was installed as president, Carole Golitko, vice president, Eileen Eccles, secretary, and Chris Walsh, treasurer. The outgoing president, Lillian Weaver, gave her annual report summarizing the club's accomplishments for the past year. Among its many endeavors the club co-sponsored the Gardener's Market, held garden tours of member's gardens, published its first cookbook, planted daffodils at the Senior Center and nursing homes, made Christmas wreaths for the town, held the Community Tea at the library, participated in the Federated Garden Club flower show, held the annual plant sale and continues to beautify the town by maintaining the civic gardens. The Wallingford Garden Club is a member of the Federated Garden Clubs of CT and the National Garden Clubs Inc. In Photo: L to R Donna Nowak, Barbara Bruce, Chris Walsh, Carole Golitko, Eileen Eccles

Summer camp space still available!

Sign up today! Mention this ad and receive $25 off a 2-week session!

SUMMER SPECIAL! Summer memberships at the Y! Join NOW and receive a YMCA Laptop bag!

WALLINGFORD Y DAYCARE! Summer Infant, Toddler and Preschool Child care slots available at both our Gaylord and Choate Rosemary Hall facilities!

YOUR WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA 81 So. Elm Street 203-269-4497 www.wallingfordymca.org

Page 10 July 2010

CELEBRATIONS

Pictured are the 2010 graduates of the Meriden Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI). PLTI is sponsored by Meriden Children First. For more information on PLTI and an application to sign-up for the 2011 class, visit www.meridenchildrenfirst.org Back Row L-R Nikole Mayo, Elizabeth Davis, Christina Ross, Yvonne Jimenez, Dorothy Johnson, Rashah Hussien, Colette Gardner, John Brooks, Deborah Lawrence Front Row L-R Mary Myers, City Councilor Hilda Satiago (former PLTI graduate), Salina Sayeed, Daniel Roman, Jessica Muniz, Debbie Sears-Dontfrad, Antonina, Cheshkova, Marinerva Diaz

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Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties Wherever you look whether containers on the streets or in people's yards beautiful flowers on display for all to enjoy. And my neighborhood has so many gifted gardeners. Pam's pansies became leggy so now they've been replaced with the brown leaf white and red begonias. And as you know one of my very favorite annuals. Meg across the street has huge pots filled with various varieties of flowers. Her bed of bright orange impatiens is an eye catcher. Planted between two apple trees approximately ten feet long and four feet wide. Unless you are in her yard to see her works of art the manicured hedges around the property tend to cut off your view. Nancy at the corner uses her trellises for her morning glories. When at their peak of blooming a magnificent sight. Then there is Jeannie. A short distance up the street from Nancy. Talk about a piece of property totally transformed. A cute little three room home changed inside and out. She had a good deal of it renovated. It should be featured in a magazine. And what she has done to the yard is unbelievable. Maybe one or two flowers or a bush resided there before. A few trees but nothing to catch ones eye. Most of the digging, planting and transplanting was done by her. Two little ponds have also been added. Even for a man to do what she has done would be truly amazing. As for my gardens they are doing very well. Two of my favorites even though small are where too huge fir trees use to be. These are now rock gardens. The center of each filled with the brown leaf white begonia then one completed with the red begonia and the other with the pink begonia. My third favorite is a large metal urn which sits on top of the trunk of the third fir tree which had been cut down. Planted nothing but coleus in it. The very dark purple leaf, green leaf with lighter purple on the edge and the tan leaf with green edging. It seems every time you go to the nursery there's a new color of coleus. A very pretty hearty plant. Jimmy has some very nice looking tomatoes. They are good size. Just waiting for them to turn red. By the next issue I'll probably have devoured more than one tomato sandwich. They keep staring me in the face in their pots on the deck when I go out the back porch door. Looking forward to that first picking. Some very nice neighbors moved away. As much as we miss them - LitlBit does too. Jim always had a treat for him. He was invited to visit on their deck or in the house. When walking him and Jim passed us in his car he would recognize it and try to pull me along to catch up to him. LitlBit and their brown lab Hershey became the best of friends. When each was on his and her deck they would bark to one another. Oh those doggie kisses. LitlBit being so much smaller would stand up on his hind legs to reach Hershey and a smooching they would go. Starr, Jim's wife loved gardening too. Many conversations about flowers were exchanged between us as well as plants. Now they live in North Carolina. Starr, Jim and their adult daughter Jessica, Graylocks the cat and Hershey. Besides the fond memories Starr left me her big - a very big blue frog stature who resides on a rock in one of my flower beds. I named him Jimbo. Our thoughts and prayers go with them. Now my end of year bragging about the three granddaughters. Grammie Bobbie has a right to do that. Izzy-Bella will be in second grade this fall. Most of her report card marks were "E" excellent. Abby graduated from Lincoln. Her awards consisted of the Martin Luther King Jr. essay, honor roll and all "A's" for her three years while attending school there. Last, but not least, Emmy "MeO". Her awards included all "A's" for her freshmen and sophomore years at Platt. A top student at her school in 10th grade for the American Mathematics Competition award and will be a drum major for her school band this fall. We are all so proud of the three of them. Guess that's about it for this writing. Go outside, look at and give the beautiful flowers a whiff or two. Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien Last year I mentioned that my sister Rosalie, "Rose", had passed away. A celebration of her life was held on Saturday, June 5th. The memorial service was across the road in the field from the home which had been owned and renovated by Rose and her husband Bob. After the eulogy given by my oldest brother Tom and fond memories expressed by some of the family members and her friends a catered meal was served at her daughter and son in-laws home. The appetizers and dinner was superb. The desserts from fresh fruits to pastries were the best! And the weather was with us too. Rose and Bob owned almost two hundred acres of land. At least one hundred was left to the Land trust to be kept as open space. I have included her eulogy below. Rosalie Kronenberger Heck November 9, 1920 - June 2, 2009 Our Rose Still Blossoms In The Eternal Garden The biggest heartbreak of recent years has been the loss of our sister Rose. She was to be the first of the nine brothers and sisters who was to pass away on June 2, 2009. rose had been ailing for a number of years and we never expected her to survive as long as she did. I guess intestinal along with heart valve problems were the cause of her demise. She is sorely missed by all the family and her friends and yet it does not seem possible that she is gone from our midst. Rose was a person who enjoyed the great outdoors: the activities of gardening and all that nature had to offer. She was without a formal education in the hobbies she pursued. She was self-learned and a good authority on all subjects she was to pursue. Believe me, she would try to master anything that came along and most always met with success in the challenges. It seems as though Rose was most happy regardless of weather conditions in old frayed clothes and dirty hands grubbing along in the soil. At times so dressed she could have been mistaken for the garden scarecrow. Rose also had another side when she dressed for an affair such as a party. She was attired as though she just stepped out of a fashion magazine pageant. As a cook and housekeeper sister Rose was the greatest. She could whip up the most delicious of meals. The only unpleasant trait I found was the horrific quantity of dishes, pots and pans in the preparation of her sumptuous feast. I can truthfully testify to this as for a number of years I, along with brother Ted, when available, were regaled to the duty of getting this myriad of equipment cleaned, washed and stored in their proper place. Another trait that was not appealing to me was her thorough housecleaning habit and I mean thorough because at the time a decision was reached to do the chore a warning: just stay away! The house was a shambles for some time until the project was completed. First off, every room in the place was stripped bare from floor to ceiling along with the windows. You might as well now have been living in a fishbowl as all semblance of privacy disappeared. All went for cleaning and washing. The transition for a day or two was acceptable but when it seemed to drag on for some time it sort of frayed on your nerves. After a bit though, when all was replaced and done - a thorough job - peace once again reigned until the next upheaval. From this experience I was to warn Rita my wife, prior to our wedding, in our marriage vows to include the replacing the window curtains and shades the same day that they had been removed for cleaning. Memories of sister Rose's escapades of those times are still too vivid in mind and I have no desire to relive them. Sister Rose was the greatest though in spite of a few malfunctions and I have her to thank a thousand times for her efforts in tasks she had undertaken in keeping the household together with the kind assistance of Addie and Florence. To look back, it certainly was a big job going to their daily work, trying to maintain the household, the children's care and all the chores involved accepting the work and responsibilities of a mother at their tender age. I think to this day because of her unselfish labor for the welfare of the family Rose has been close and extra special to me. It has formed a bond that remains to this day in spite of her passing. I do admit I may not always have agreed in all her decisions made but that has never altered my love and feelings for her. Now my sister Rose reposes on property that she cared for and groomed for so many years. The fields and forests she trudged over looking for the elusive mushroom, another of her favorite hobbies. This hobby was to elevate her to an expert status in their identification, food preparation and love. A big mushroom foray she was to host every autumn on her place along with friends and club members and it was a yearly delight for her. Daughter Roberta, family and friends were to construct a place of rest on property sister Rose so much loved. A small parcel of land enclosed by a wrought iron fence has been committed to a family resting place where she is now in sweet repose. Here she rests along with her much loved husband the children's father Robert along with an infant grandchild, Douglas Robert Card. One day all will hopefully be reunited to rest in peace at this charming place adjacent to the forest that Rose so loved. With Love and admiration to a wonderful sister, Brother Tom

Holiday Crafters Wanted Highland and Yalesville Elementary Schools of Wallingford, Connecticut have combined their PTO organizations. Highland School held an Annual Craft Fair for 26 years and this year will sponsor along with Yalesville School a Craft Fair on Saturday, December 4, 2010 from 9 AM to 3 PM at Highland School on 200 Highland Avenue, Wallingford, CT. Any crafter interested in an application or in more information may contact Highland School at (203) 294-3970 or Carole Eager at (203) 235-0195 or careager@aol.com.

Page 11 July 2010

The People’s Press Stopped The Presses! For the first time ever we stopped the presses to let you know about the latest on Miss India from Barbara Sherburne

CELEBRATIONS

NEWS FLASH - I found Miss India!

Brenda - you have the most beautiful smile.

CELEBRATIONS

FOUND - The hill where Miss India is buried as confirmed by Kathy Marotta. Barbara snapped the photo. On Sunday, July 4th, I drove over to Kathy Marotta's house on East Street, and our expedition began.. At first we drove around, but she didn't recognize too much from the car. Of course she knew where the sewer beds were, where the huge pile of coal had once been, and the electric plant and all, but we couldn't get a sense of where the burial plot was from the car. So we parked at her house and headed out on foot. We started down a road next to Thermo Spas, and just kept walking. Everything is totally fenced in everywhere with No Trespassing signs and Danger. We walked and walked, and I happened to notice a space where the fencing stopped, for whatever reason. We walked past that thinking the road would lead around to the left, but it didn't. So we walked back up the hill, and stopped at the spot where there was no fence, which was near a storage building of some kind, and we walked through brambles and tree branches to get to a road which led to another fence. We didn't recognize what the buildings were from that vantage point, but she pointed to an embankment and said, "I think that's it. I think that's where she's buried." I said, "There has to be a way to see it from the other side. We had to have passed it in the car." So we memorized trees, an orange truck, telephone poles, and a building so we could find it on the other side. Then we walked all the way back to the only break in the fence and climbed up through the brambles and back to the street and continued walking. Once we got back to East Street, we walked all the way down East Street to where the electric division is and spotted the orange truck, the trees, telephone poles, and the building. Then we walked to where a bunch of weeds were hiding the little hill from that side, and that's why we never saw it. Kathy proclaimed in a convincing voice, "This is it. This is where she's buried!" I looked for the building, which I believe was the hangar from the airport, and it's in a direct line with that little hill or embankment. If I am correct that that is the hangar, then Miss India's burial site is more than 100 feet from there, a distance that I cited from one of the news articles. It was pretty exciting locating Miss India's grave, let me tell you, and I couldn't have done it without Kathy. Thank you, Kathy. So, now, what's the next step? By Barbara Sherburne

Angelina is looking at you....ain’t she sweet?

Page 12 July 2010

Wallingford Family YMCA Camp Ulbrich 2010

She’s Into Health Eloise Hazelwood- Town of Wallingford, Health Director This is a new series of articles so that you can get to know public servants in Wallingford and how they can help you. 1. Where you are from? That's easy, Allentown PA., or A-town as we say. Thank goodness you didn't ask "where are you going!" 2. Where did you go to school? Dieruff HS; Charter Oak State College, Undergrad; UCONN Graduate School, MPH (yes, that's right, I actually went to UCONN) 3. What you have done for a career etc? My first job (when I was 14) was working in a daycare. That's probably why I don't have kids! I worked as a waitress for one day, but not really. From there I worked in a factory cutting patterns for sportswear while in high school. It didn't take long to realize I didn't want to do that for a living! My Mom couldn't afford college so after graduation I enlisted active duty, in the US Air Force, and trained as a Veterinary Tech assigned to a research position. I learned an incredible amount and I'm extremely thankful I made the decision to join the AF…. I served 8 yrs 4 months active duty, transferred to the Reserves (the job description morphed over the years into Public Health) finished my Bachelor of Science (with High Honors) and worked as Sanitarian and on to my Masters degree; so to make a short story long, here I am, Town of Wallingford, Director of Health, and I'm also an adjunct faculty at Southern CT State University in the Public Health Dept. 4. Your likes and dis-likes? Likes: Positive people; puppies and plenty of sunshine. Dis likes: Negative people; cold wet weather; automated phone systems; and people who don't return phone calls (work-wise it's unprofessional, personal-wise its just plain rude) 5. What your responsibilities are with your job? As the Health Director, I am responsible for the enforcement and oversight of all state mandated Public Health functions per CT General Statues and the CT Public Health Code; oversee departmental budget and grants; supervise all assigned staff and coordinate community public health nursing component and local preparedness partnerships. Most people don't realize that violations of the CT Public Health Code are criminal misdemeanors and as such are enforceable by both civil action and criminal prosecution. To translate into daily functions, a typical day in local public health is full of variety; food safety, sewage, water, garbage, nuisance odors, lead poisoning prevention… come the end of the day, it means I get to do all the "stuff" nobody else wants to do! I think most people who work in local public health will tell you we welcome the variety; it keeps us from being mentally stagnant. You can reach Eloise at (203) 294-2065

Southington Drive In Is Open Again Come to the Southington Drive-In, 935 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike. A portion of the proceeds benefit local civic organizations. The following movies will play on Saturdays: July 17, "Babe;" July 31, "Big;" Aug. 7, "Indiana Jones;" Aug. 14, "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid;" Aug. 21, "Jurassic Park;" and Aug. 28, "Jaws." Gates open at 6 p.m.; show time at sunset. Rain dates are Sundays. There are costs to attend for Southington residents and non-residents. Food vendors are on site. Movies are subject to change. Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it. ~Russel Baker

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!

Accredited and State Licensed Camp program NOW offering transportation is running through August 27th! Make new friends, meet new challenges, but more importantly have fun! The 2010 camp season is underway and the Wallingford Family YMCA is excited and ready to deliver quality programs this season. Camp groups such as Rascals, All-Stars, AdventurTeens, and Counselors-in-Training will make this a fun-filled summer! We invite all Wallingford children ages 5 through 15 to participate in swimming, rock climbing, excursions to Mt. Ridge, hiking and nature projects at Bertini Park, field trips to see the Rock Cats, arts & crafts, sports activities and much more! We also are offering safe and convenient bus stops from all Wallingford Elementary Schools. Camp Ulbrich is state licensed and accredited by the American Camp Association. Financial assistance is still available for qualifying families. The Wallingford Family YMCA will "never turn anyone away without the inability to pay"! Please visit or call the YMCA 269-4497 TODAY, to register. Camp sessions are running from now through August 27th!!

GARDENER’S MARKET

The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2010 Gardener’s Market Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 17th to Sept 25th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, home crafts, baked items and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. An uptown or downtown business will be featured each week as a special event. Carole and Bob Golitko will continue with cooking breakfast items using vendors fresh produce. July will bring long awaited produce from D’Addios of North Haven, Tancreti’s and Iuliano’s of East Haven, Little Acres of South Glastonbury, Geremia’s of Southington, Farmer Joe’s of Wallingford, Cecarelli of Northford, J&C of Durham. Gambardella’s Fresh Seafood of Stonington will be back. Entertainment will be from Conn Civic Youth Orchestra, Barbershop Quartet and later Brass Quintet. Come and join us. Please check the market website for updated information at: www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com

CELEBRATIONS

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

CELEBRATIONS

Free Photo Form Send One to a loved one!

CELEBRATIONS Daddy, 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

The deadline for Celebrations is the 28th of each month.

On May 16th Hunters Glen Morgans celebrated the 30th Birthday of a cherished horse, Trijas Peppermarc. More than 150 people attended his party, including his breeders Bob and Patty Brooks of East Lyme CT. Marc is still used as a lesson horse and was Karen Bobbi's first show horse. He won many saddle and driving champpionships throughout the years. Many children knew that if they were able to have a lesson on Marc, they knew how to ride. To this day he is spirited and energetic. Happy Birthday Marc!!

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CELEBRATIONS

Beautiful Collage by Carisa Lockery

CELEBRATIONS

The after school Green House project with teachers Ruby Hsu & Stephanie Rubin along with Carole Golitko of The Wallingford Garden Club along with many volunteers,completed the project just at the end of the school year.The 4th & 5th graders were taught about composting ,a compost bin was donated by Carole & The Wallingford Garden Club.The greenhouse was built from recycled 2liter soda bottles. The children along with the family & teachers were excited about the project.The compost will supply soil for plantings in the fall when school resumes.The wallingford Garden Club member of The Federated Garden clubs of CT & The National Garden Club Inc. Submitted By Carole Golitko

CELEBRATIONS

And My Kids Took Flight... Little did I anticipate how wonderful the morning of Wednesday June 23rd would be for my children or for me? Friend, Dawn Reynolds had given out an open invitation to a wonderful event at the MeridenMarkham airport sponsored by the Young Eagles. I hadn't even heard of the Young Eagles before, seeing that neither my children nor I have ever flown prior to this. I learned about how the Young Eagles donate their time as well as their aircraft and own money, all for the love of aviation and for the opportunity to inspire children to also develop a love of aviation as well. I thought to myself for a minute and quickly said to count my children in on this fantastic opportunity. I thought about how exciting this would be and what a fun way to start their summer vacation. We started the morning with jitters for my children and me. We were escorted out to each plane one by one, a plane and a pilot for each of my four children. Each pilot was as kind as the next. They were patient,polite, and friendly to my children. They talked of their experience with flying and they taught my children about the different parts of the plane and how they work, how the plane runs, what makes it fly and how it lands. They then helped the kids into the planes and before I knew it they were off racing down the runway. I watched with amazement and for those few seconds could not believe my eyes as my babies were leaving the ground and heading into the beautiful blue sky. With my first child taking off, I have to admit my stomach felt a tiny bit queasy, but that feeling was quickly gone and I was left with just tears in my eyes. Within those few seconds my children were flying! They were up in the sky flying, well above my head and soon out of my sight. They were gone. I thought to myself where else could they get such an opportunity as this?? Where else could they receive an education followed by tremendous excitement and an experience they never before had known? I quickly realized how much this truly meant to them as they returned back down to the ground. With big smiles and happy faces my children greeted me once again. The first thing they told me was "I want to do that again!" The Eagles gave them log books that recorded their very first flight, a picture of them in front of the plane with each pilot, a poster (which now hangs on their bedroom walls), and further information about aviation. My oldest son has even taken the information he had been given and now wants to expand on it further by taking a training course that could one day lead him to obtaining his very own pilot's license. My children took flight with a wonderful group of people who call themselves the Young Eagles. On behalf of my children Colton, Mackenzie, Camden and Garrett and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to thank this group for all that they do to make this opportunity available to children. It was a pleasure to have met these pilots and an absolute thrill for my children to have flown with them. Sincerely, Dawn Brown

July 2010 Events at the Augusta Sunday, July 18th---JC Music Vocal & Instrumental Student Recital 2pm to 5pm at the Center in the glass room. Tickets $5.00, enjoy an afternoon of the student's of JC Music performing. Tickets can be purchased at JC Music and for more information call 203-630-2496. Monday, July 12th through Sunday, July 25th "Orchestra Summer Camp 2010"---Sponsored by CUNO Foundation, Meriden Arts Trust, ACCC, & CCCYO. Join instrument playing camp from July 12 through July 23rd and concert to be held at end of camp on July 25th. A camp like no other for classical instruments. Call 203-235-7445 for more information or to participate. Tuition $80 Monday, July 26th through Friday, August 6th "Summer Youth Musical Theater Camp 2010"---Sponsored by Greater Meriden Community Chorus, ACCC, JC Music, & the CUNO Foundation. Children ages 7 to 18 are welcome to attend and will be instructed in singing, acting, voice, improvisation, stage make-up, solos, group singing, auditioning techniques, and more‌‌For more information call 203-237-2493. Evening performance will end camp on Friday, Aug. 6th FOR MORE INFORMATION ON UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE AUGUSTA, TO DONATE TO THE CENTER, OR TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE ACCC VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CURTISCULTURALCENTER.ORG

SAVE THE DATE! Friday ~ July 23rd - 7:00pm-8:00pm Groovy Smoothies at the Nutrition Center in downtown Wallingford located at 116 Center Street. Learn how to make delicious and super healthy smoothies that can be used as a snack or as a meal replacement. $5 donation will be used to cover the cost of ingredients. Please call 203.269.2852 to register or visit www.docnutrition.org

Just having fun at the circus!

CELEBRATIONS

On Wednesday, June 30th the Wallingford Rotary held their 88th Annual Installation of Officers at The Farms Country Club. The incoming Rotary President, Kevin Buno's motto for his year as President is "DO SOMETHING"

Page 14 July 2010

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CELEBRATIONS

Skipper in charge of the driving on Bantam Lake!

Keys & Strings Music Studio is pleased to announced Joanna Petrulis joining their teaching staff as of July 1st. Joanna is an accomplished pianist, having taught for the last 8 years at area studios, as well as performing and being a part of the music program at her church. She is available to teach beginner through advanced students of all ages. Please call 203.265.1500 or visit www.musicboxwithsandie.com to schedule a visit.

Our beautiful studio is located on the Wallingford Greenopposite the Gazebo and Train Station at 31 Hall Ave in Wallingford

Wallingford Public Library News and Events 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. SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AT WALLINGORD PUBLIC LIBRARY: All of our programs are free, all of the time! Thursday Night Book Club: The Places In Between by Rory Stewart - Thursday, July 15 7:00 p.m. Collins Room In January 2002 Rory Stewart walked across Afghanistan-surviving by his wits, his knowledge of Persian dialects and Muslim customs, and the kindness of strangers. Read his account of his experiences and join us for a discussion. Copies of the book are available from the Information Desk on a first-come-first-served basis. All are welcome for conversation and refreshments. Our informal book discussion group meets on the third Thursday of each month with the exception of August when there is no meeting. No registration is necessary. Poetry Writing Workshop with Eileen Albrizio: Break Through the Fear of Writing a Poem Tuesday, July 20 6:00 p.m. Collins Room What is writer's block? Is it that we don't have a poem in our heads or that we do, but can't translate it into words? Or is it bigger than that? Are we actually afraid of writing a poem? If so, why? In this workshop we will explore many of the reasons why we stop short from writing that great poem locked inside us. We will break through those barriers allowing us to write without fear. Then we will start from the beginning, from how to come up with an idea, or how to work with an existing idea to create that inspirational poem you will be proud to have others read. Dessert with a Doc: A New Weigh of Life - Wednesday, July 21 6:30 p.m. Community Room Presented by Aziz Benbrahim, MD Join us for an interactive discussion on how obesity truly affects our health and learn successful strategies to keep the pounds off! A healthy dessert will be provided. This program is co-sponsored by MidState Medical Center. Please call the library to register in advance. Sisters in Crime - Friday, July 23 6:30 p.m. Collins Meeting Room Love mysteries? Love mystery writing? So do Sisters in Crime!* This special program features Massachusetts State Trooper Laura Fogarty, a 14-year veteran crime scene investigator. Trooper Fogarty will discuss her responsibilities in the State Police Crime Scene Services Section -- including identifying fingerprints, footprints, and tire tracks; and the use of photography, video and diagrams to document the scene. A question and answer session will follow the presentation. This program is free and open to the public however seating is limited! Please call the library to register in advance. Adult Summer Reading Program: Book Buddies…Bags of Fun for Adults! Weekly Prize Drawings in July and August - July 15, 22, 29 - August 5, 12, 19 - Grand Prize Drawing August 26 This summer become a book buddy and share your love of reading with other adults while earning the chance to win a weekly prize. It's easy to participate, stop by the Information Desk and pick up a Book Buddy Reads form. Fill out one form for each book you read. Every Thursday forms will be entered into a drawing for a Wallingford Public Library Book Bag filled with hardcover and paperback books and a gift certificate to the Book Seller. We will also have a display of our Book Buddies favorite books called Patron Picks. Book marks will be available for you to personalize and identify your favorite books, if you so choose. On August 26th all participants will be entered into a drawing for a $50.00 gift certificate to Amazon.com (Be sure to link to Amazon.com from our website: www.wallingford.lioninc.org and help support the library.) Read a lot; enter a lot, its bags of fun! Matinee: Under Milkwood: A Play for Voices by Dylan Thomas - Thursday, July 29 2:00 p.m. Community Room A company of 10 Ashlarians (Ashlar Village Residents) will give a special library matinee performance of Dylan Thomas' Under Milkwood. The story takes place in the fictional Welsh seacoast town of Llareggub (buggerall, backwards!). Two narrators describe the time and place with Thomas' colorful poetry, while the other eight performers enact the various characters. Participating will be Lois Read, director and first voice, Cecilia Malin, second voice, and Lois Gillespie, Beth Mitchell, Barbara Pratt, Melanie Anastasio, Ernie Hoffman, Vinny Varone, Ken Donadio, and Charlie Shaffert reading all the citizens of the town. This play was originally written as a play for voices for the radio and later adapted for the stage and film. Admission is free and open to all. Hot Summer Movie Nights!!! Free Movie Screenings at the Wallingford Public Library All movies are shown in the Community Room. Friday July 16th at 6:30 pm - Friday Night Flicks presents The Bounty Hunter In the bouncy romantic comedy The Bounty Hunter, Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler aim to be a contemporary Nick and Nora for an audience that's never even heard of The Thin Man. Ex-cop-turned-bounty hunter Milo Boyd (Butler, 300) is ecstatic when he gets his new assignment: his ex-wife, reporter Nicole Hurley (Aniston), has skipped bail to pursue a breaking story. Naturally, when he catches her, he also gets caught up in the mystery--though the mystery is really just an excuse for quirky comic bickering between the estranged lovebirds. Refreshingly, the script has the kind of off-beat rhythms and flavors of comedy-action flicks like Midnight Run, Out of Sight, and Something Wild. Rated: PG-13 Friday July 23rd at 6:30 pm - Friday Night Flicks presents Brooklyn's Finest - Fans of the grit of HBO's The Wire, as well as of the mean-streets story intersection plot of Crash, will find a lot to like in the intense crime drama Brooklyn's Finest. Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) with a sure hand, Brooklyn's Finest follows three NYPD cops who come from very different places (geographically and personally) as their lives, and the compromises they have made daily to coexist with the mean streets of Brooklyn, dovetail to a climax that will have viewers on the edge of their seats. Fuqua has assembled a stellar cast here, including Richard Gere, a veteran cop just a week from retirement; the always amazing Don Cheadle, an undercover officer whose loyalties to the force may be compromised by his growing loyalties to the groups he's infiltrating; and the film's true revelation, Ethan Hawke, a young corrupt cop whose morals make the stomach turn, though Hawke's performance is nuanced and riveting. Supporting cast members include Wesley Snipes as a badass gangster whom even the police have second thoughts about messing with. Rated: R Friday July 30th at 6:30 pm - Friday Night Flicks presents Death at a Funeral - Directed by Neil LaBute and starring Chris Rock and Danny Glover, Death at a Funeral is a hilarious day in the life of an American family come together to put a beloved husband and father to rest. As mourners gather at the family home, shocking revelations, festering resentments, ugly threats, blackmail and a misdirected corpse unleash lethal and riotous mayhem. Rated: R Tuesday August 3rd at 6:30 pm - Cinema Club presents Summer Hours - Widely hailed by critics as 2009's best film, Summer Hours is the great contemporary French filmmaker Olivier Assayas's most personal film to date. Three siblings, played by Juliette Binoche, Charles Berling, and Jérémie Renier, must decide what to do with the country estate and objects they've inherited from their mother. From this simple story, Assayas creates a nuanced, exquisitely made drama about the material of globalized modern living. Naturalistic and unsentimental yet suffused with genuine warmth, this is that rare film that pays respect to family by treating it with honesty. Not Rated TEEN ZONE! - Prizes in the Pages… Teen Summer Reading Program The Wallingford Public Library Teen Summer Reading Program will kick off on June 28th and run through August 20th. Teens will receive an entry to win a prize of their choice for each book they read. The more you read, the more you can win. In addition to prize drawings there will literally be prizes in the pages. While reading a book you may find a special bookmark, coupon, or certificate redeemable for a prize. There is no pre-registration required and all Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to participate. Please contact the Library at (203) 265-6754 for more information. School Summer Reading We have stocked the shelves with multiple copies of the books on your school summer reading lists. Titles are also available on CD and as an audio download which can be listened to on your iPod or burned to a CD. You can use these books towards the Teen Summer Reading program! 6-12 and their Mother or adult female friend. Reserve your copies today! Governor's Reading Challenge: Win $1,000 Toward a College Savings Account! This year the Governor's Reading Challenge is encouraging Teens to read a book by a Connecticut author or set in Connecticut. We have a list of all the possibilities behind the Information Desk. Those who participate are eligible to fill out an application to win $1,000 toward a college savings account. Reading logs to keep track of your books are available on our web site under the Summer Reading caption. You may also use any books you read for this challenge in our Teen Summer Reading Program. Good Luck!

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Meriden Park and Recreation News and Events Summer Playground Program - June 28th - August 6th - 8:30am - 3:00pm Three locations: Habershon Park * Baldwin's Pond * Ceppa Field Cost for Field Trips only Children must have completed kindergarten through age 12 Please call 203 630-4259 2010 HUBBARD PARK POOL * OPENS JUNE 21, 2010 * POOL HOURS Monday thru Thursday: Open Swim: 12:00p - 6:30p Adult Swim: 6:45p - 7:45P Saturday & Sunday : Open Swim: 12:00p - 6:45p All participants must have a valid 2010 pool pass to partake in swim lessons or use the Hubbard Park Pool. Summer Fun Runs - Platt High School Track Wednesdays June 23rd - August 25th 3 mile race for all ages - ž mile race for children 6:30p Sharp Contact Fred at (203) 235-5259 for further information

By Patricia Coppola - Wallingford My family lived in a house that was attached on both sides to other houses, and those houses took up an entire city block. Our "backyard" was a concrete driveway, with community garages about 20 feet behind the houses. Between the house and garage, there was a slight indentation in the concrete, with a drain. During my father's vacation, which was always the last week in July and the first week in August, my father would take a rubber stopper and cover the drain. He would then fill the indentation with water from the hose, and my sister and I would sit in ½ inch of water and splash ourselves. Eventually, the house was taken by "eminent domain" to allow for the construction of the Verrazano Bridge. Our next home was three blocks away. In the summer, my friends and I would play endless games of stick ball, where a fire hydrant would be first base, the sewer cover second base and sometimes we would have to use another kid as third base. Occasionally we would switch to stoop ball. If you know what that is, you have lived in a city and are over 50. As a teenager my girl friends and I learned early NEVER to say we were bored. If we did, our mothers would put a dust rag in our hands and tell us to clean. So, we would escape the house real early and go to the school yard and meet up with our friends. We played, (or the girls watched the boys play) handball - all day. There was a kiddy sprinkler in the school yard and inevitably one of the girls would be chased into the sprinkler. After dinner it was back to the school yard where we would just goof around and TALK until curfew time. Some days my best friend, Judy, and I would go to "tar beach". My grandparents lived on the top floor of a six family apartment house, one block from a major highway. Judy and I would go up on the roof and put our towels on the tar roof and roast ourselves. If you took a deep breath, you could smell the car fumes from the highway. Some of my best memories were days spent with friends at Coney Island. We would have to take a bus or train to get there -you haven't lived until you sit on public transportation for 45 minutes with sand in your bathing suit. None of us had any money, we never heard of "camp", never went on vacations, but we had the time to form close friendships, read books, daydream, depended on ourselves for entertainment, and laughed a lot. I don't think any of our crowd stayed in Brooklyn. Subconsciously, I think we all knew we were experiencing the best of good times, and that the innocence could not possibly last. I know I am not looking back on those days through rose colored glasses, because my husband was one of the "crowd" and he remembers the summers the same way. And, even though she now lives in Georgia, Judy is still my best friend.

2010 Meriden Back to School EXPO 7th Annual Book Bag Drive August 24, 2010 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM at the Meriden Hub Parking Lot, 30 East Main St. in Meriden The education of our children is one of the greatest responsibilities of any community. Your contribution of school supplies or monies can help to fulfill that responsibility. The Meriden Back to School EXPO is a resource for Meriden families and their children. On behalf of the organizers, we invite you to be part of a community event that truly makes an instant impact on the quality of life and educational experiences of our children. If your business or organization has an area of expertise you would like to share with community families, this is an ideal venue to disseminate this information. Please consider being a part of our team of sponsors and vendors of this event. Last year, the Meriden Back to School EXPO was attended by 1200 students and their families. These participants left the EXPO with a book bag full of school supplies. More importantly, parents/guardians left with the knowledge that their child would not be held back because the necessary supplies were not attainable. In addition to providing necessary school supplies, the EXPO vendors shared valuable resources and information. Another objective of this effort is to motivate parents to get involved and to encourage their children to value and excel in their educational endeavors. Your organization can be an integral part of this wonderful event. The 2010 Back to School Expo Organizers thank you in advance for your consideration. Sincerely, Beat the Street Community Center - Meriden/Wallingford NAACP, Branch #2005 - The Meriden Rotary Foundation Please make checks payable to: The Meriden Rotary Foundation, P.O. Box 1726, Meriden, CT 06450 no later than August 1, 2010. Supply Drop Off Locations: may be deposited at the following locations no later than August 15, 2010. Meriden Schools Federal Credit Union - 285 Broad Street, Meriden, CT, Meriden Fire Department - all Meriden Fire Stations, Meriden Board of Education - 22 Liberty Street, Meriden, CT For information call or e-mail: Larry Pelletier. Beat the Street Community Center. 203-213-2136 beattsccinc@snet.net Barbara Holloman - Meriden / Wallingford NAACP - 203-237-6907 bfortheyouth@aol.com

We are hoping to bring to the City of Meriden a day of festivities on Wednesday July 14, 2010 from 1000am to 400pm. We will be offering positive resource, interactive activities (see flyer for list of activities that you can print) and information from community organizations and to promote the downtown HUB area. We will have some food vendors, the event will also include a "Health and Wellness Fair" and Education information. Shred It will be offering Meriden Residents only free shredding for a couple hours. The event will be broadcasted live on Hot 93.7 all day long which will generate a lot of fun and excitement. Community Wednesdays are held in Connecticut during the summer months of July and August as a way to promote community on Wednesdays. We will be having a "dunk tank" and are looking for people who have a good sense of humor to allow themselves to be a "dunkee nominee" proceeds from the dunk tank will go to the Boy Scouts and The Family Self Sufficiency Program which assists families become self sufficient and gain economic independence to get ahead. If you would like to participate in our event or find out more information about the Community Wednesday Block Party please call Teri Ramos at 203235-0157 ext 229

Volunteers Needed! The Nurturing Connections Program, a child abuse prevention program through the Community Health Center of Meriden is looking for volunteers to provide support and education to first time parents in the Meriden and Wallingford area. For more information on how to become a volunteer please call Alejandra Godaire at 203-237-2229 ext. 6035.

Join us for an evening of family fun at the Meriden YMCA's Family Bingo Night and Camp Art Show on July 14th at 6:15 p.m. at our Mountain Mist Outdoor Center at 535 High Hill Road in Meriden. The cost is $3 for 5 bingo sheets and $5 for 10 bingo sheets. Pizza and beverages will be available for sale. We will also be displaying the wonderful creative art work made by our campers. All proceeds to benefit the Mountain Mist Day Camp Counselors in Training Program and the Strong Kids Campaign. This event is open to the public. Call us today for more information at 203-235-6386.

CELEBRATIONS

Summer Days in Brooklyn, New York

Meriden Community Wednesday Block Party.

Join Us for Family Bingo and Camp Art Show at the Meriden YMCA Mountain Mist Outdoor Center

Three volunteers from Sleeping Giant District, Boy Scouts of America were recently recognized at an annual dinner with the Distict Award of Merit. This award is given for service to youth in the District, an area which includes Hamden, Wallingford, North Haven, Meriden and Southington. Pictured (L to R) are District Committee Chair, Carolyn Griffin; award winners John Gopian, Joanne Kelleher and Michael Kennedy and District Commissioner, Dion Roccapiore. John Gopian of Meriden, the district's Health and Safety coordinator, lead the team who organized the recent First Aid Camporee and 100th Anniversary Celebration. Joanne Kelleher of Southington, who was also part of the Camporee committee, is the district Communications Chair. Michael Kennedy of North Haven is the Venturing Coordinator and and advisor to the Order of the Arrow honor society. All three award winners are also active volunteers in their local units.

SPECIAL $250 SYNAGOGUE MEMBERSHIP

Temple B'nai Abraham, a Conservative, Egalitarian congregation, announces a special membership rate for new Temple members. The membership will run until June 2011. High Holiday tickets included in the membership. Offer is open to singles and families. The Temple offers a wide range of programs:Innovative Religious School (Pre-K through bar/bat Mitzvah)* Shabbat * Holiday and Festival Services * Yahrzeit Minyanim* Jr. Congregation * Adult Education * Social Action * Cultural and Social Events and Congregational Dinners *This offer is not open to current or past members.

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

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

We care about you and your family! (203) 265-1541 58 Center St., Wallingford www.wallingfordoptical.com

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CELEBRATIONS

Happy Birthday to the best kid around! Love, The Fam!

CELEBRATIONS

Meriden Rotary Installs New Officers & Directors for 2010-2011 Left to Right: Jim Ieronimo, Director; Tari Marshal-Day Webster, Director; Michael Canning, Sergeant-At-Arms; Frank W. Ridley, President-Elect and Emperor of Meriden; Cliff Carlson, Past President; Ty Bongiovanni, Vice President; Pamela White, President; David Lake, Treasurer; Molly Savard, Director; Chris deAngeli, Assistant Secretary; Yvonne deAngeli, Assistant Treasurer; and Julie Rappenhagen, Incoming District Governor (Missing from photo is Kieren Moore, Director; Nate Bottone, Director; Kevin Curry, Director and Gloria Griffith, Assistant Sergeant-At-Arms

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Find Out Why by Stopping Down Today! 369 Cook Ave., Meriden

203-235-2561

A Little Advice from Your Friends at Meriden Feed Just imagine…it's September 6th, 2010, the weather is just perfect, your signature steaks are marinating, and the sodas on ice and you have a great backyard family barbeque planned for Labor Day. All that's left to do is set out the chairs in the backyard. Your beautiful wife is just about to show you exactly where to place the first chair and you notice something's wrong with your immaculate lawn. It feels spongy in spots and it seems like something's been making little tunnels just below the surface of the lawn. Brown patches have suddenly appeared and you can literally roll up sections of the lawn. You look further back into the yard and notice little holes in the turf, like something has been looking for buried treasure. Something has, and that treasure is GRUBS! A grub infestation can cause one or more of the signs that I've illustrated in the scenario above. After eating the roots of your grass, grubs will cause your turf to feel spongy or loose. Sections of your turf will turn brown and you will be able to peel it up easily. Moles will eventually tunnel their way into your yard to feed their voracious appetites with the well fed grubs you are raising just below the surface. Grubs are also favored by the "treasure hunting" skunks in our area, who will leave your backyard pockmarked with little holes that they've dug for a late night snack. If left unchecked, these little one inch long, c-shaped, Japanese Beetle larvae can really wreck a lawn. The grub, however, is one of the most confusing lawn pests that we have to deal with in our area. It's control or prevention is very much a matter of timing. I know that most of you are only concerned about your 4th of July picnic today, but you need to do something now to prevent grubs from spoiling your parties in late August and September. To understand how to prevent grubs, you need to know a little about its lifecycle and what can be done during each part of the cycle to control this pest. Adult Japanese Beetles emerge from our lawns in June and July. During this time they eat our plants, mate, and lay eggs in our lawns. A mature beetle can lay up to fifty eggs in your lawn. Beetle traps, a natural alternative, can be placed around your property to contain as many of these adults as possible. Insecticide sprays and powders can also be used to protect plants in our yard from damage. Many products, like GrubEx, that claim "season long control" of grubs need to be put down during this time period to be most effective. These products typically need to be established in your lawn up to 30 days before infant grubs start to feed in order to be most effective. In August, "infant" grubs have hatched from their eggs and have begun to feed on your lawn. If you put down your "season long control" product in July, it will be most effective on these newly hatched grubs. If you didn't do it in July, you can apply your "season long control" product now, but its effectiveness will be negated the longer you wait. Quick kill insecticides, such as Dylox, can be used once you know grubs are active. These products will kill all grubs just below the surface of you soil, but do not remain in your lawn to control the population afterward. From September to October, only the quick kill insecticides (Dylox) will be effective. In November and December the grubs will go down below the surface to escape the winter. Next March and April the "mature" grub will come back up to the surface to feed. The more "mature" the grubs become, the harder they are to control. Once again, only the quick kill insecticides will be effective during this period. "Season long controls" can be applied, but will have limited effect. In May the "mature" grub will pupate and emerge in June as a beetle to start the process again. In addition to traps, other more environmentally safe controls are available to the homeowner. Milky Spore is a natural bacteria that eats the grub stage of the Japanese Beetle. It is not harmful to pets, people, or the environment. The bacteria spores multiply as the grubs consume them and die, providing effective control for years after the product has been established in your lawn. This product can be applied any time of the year, but will take time to be fully effective. Just remember, now is the time to pick which way you want to control or prevent a grub problem in your yard. Stop down to the store and we would be happy to help you pick the method that you would find most comfortable to use, whether chemical or natural. It is much easier to help you now, than it is to help you after that fateful barbeque at the end of the summer.

SIMPLY SUMMER No Disney or Cape Cod for our middle class family of 5 just making ends meet. Regardless, my fondest summer memories were spent with my Aunt Margie, Uncle Mark and my cousins (6 girls!) in West Haven at their home and the beach. They were the most loving, caring and carefree people I had ever known. Being with all of them, I felt my happiest as a child. My Aunt & Uncle always made me feel right at home and loved to laugh and just have fun. Summer of 1970, I am 3 years old (cute right?), and the beginning of my love for the beach and anything related to water. Being a little kid and curious about creatures littler than me, low tide was my favorite. At low tide, we would all walk so far out and collect sea shells, snails and little crabs. All the little kids were most excited when we actually got to see a live horseshoe crab. Before heading back to their house for an awesome BBQ, which at their house was always like going to a party, we would always walk to the "original" Jimmies, a little hut type restaurant right there at the edge of the beach, to get cherry dipped cones. Now I am teaching my two little ones about the beach, water and all the wonderful things and creatures that there is to explore. Anytime I smell that sea air, hear the seagulls and the crashing waves, I am 3 years old again and life is good. It reminds me, that the simple things in every day life, is what is most important. - Michelle Trenchard-Scianna

Page 17 July 2010

WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER NEWS AND EVENTS Senior Center Transportation Change Note: Shop Rite is now open on Route 5 in Wallingford. You now have a choice to shop at Shop Rite or Wal-Mart on Thursdays. Please anticipate your needs and make your reservations early. Regular schedule: Wallingford senior residents call the Senior Center at 203-265-7753 to make your reservation. Two days notice required and as the schedule allows. MONDAY: Kohl's, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and appointments between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., TUESDAY: Appointments from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., WEDNESDAY: Appointments from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. THURSDAY: Shop Rite & Wal-Mart, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and appointments between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., FRIDAY: Stop & Shop from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 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. Health Reform and Medicare Part D The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act signed into law March 23, 2010 makes several changes to Medicare Part D to reduce your out-of-pocket costs when you reach the coverage gap (donut hole). Included in these changes are the following: Year 2010: If you have expenses in the coverage gap, you will receive a $250 rebate from Medicare. Your Plan D (Prescription Drug Insurance Company) will notify CMS of beneficiaries who qualify for this rebate. No action needs to be taken on the part of the beneficiary. The first round of checks will be sent to the beneficiary in June 2010. Year 2011: If you reach the coverage gap (donut hole), you will be given a 50% discount on the total cost of brand name drugs while in the gap. Medicare will phase in additional discounts on the cost of both brand name and generic drugs. By 2020, these changes will effectively close the coverage gap (donut hole) and rather than paying 100% of the costs, your responsibility will be 25% of the costs. Important Notice Regarding Connpace - Please be aware that if you do not renew your ConnPACE when it is due, you will not be able to re-enroll until November 15th. This is due to changes that have been made in the ConnPACE program. New enrollment in the ConnPACE Program will be limited to November 15th through December 31st. A few exceptions do apply. You will be able to join ConnPACE 31 days after turning 65 or after becoming eligible for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or State Supplement Insurance (SSI). Low Vision Support Group - There will be no Low Vision Support Group in July and August. Veterans Services - Tuesday, July 27, 1:00 - 3:00 PM George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford, will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 203-265-7753. Renters Rebate Program Must be 65 years of age or over, or have proof of Total Disability when under age 65. APPLICATION PERIOD: May 15 - September 15 - WHERE: Assessor's Office - Town Hall - TELEPHONE: (203) 294-2001 JULY PROGRAMS Thursday Evening Programs - During July, our Thursday evenings will offer Lake View Café suppers and the "R" Band Concerts. Classes, programs and special events will resume in August. In addition to Zumba Gold, Tai Chi, Poker, Bridge and Bananagrams, we are adding a Ceramics Studio class and a Belly-dance Fitness class. Registration for all classes begins July 6. Evening "R" Band Concerts - Thursdays, July 15, 22, 29, 6:30 PM Our most popular summer event, the "R" Band concert series, returns for four evenings in July. Under the direction of Patricia Lignelli, the "R" Band is sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department. These talented musicians will thoroughly entertain you! Before the concert, Lake View Café will have supper available. See menu and ticket information below. Patriotic Concert - Wednesday, July 28, 2:00 PM Back by popular demand, Keir White returns July 28. Keir is a talented, young vocalist who performed at our Spring Fling Concert to rave reviews! He is excited to bring this special patriotic-themed show of songs that celebrate our country's history and heritage. Refreshments will be served following the concert. Please sign up in advance. Do You Love To Eat? Part 2: Lunch - Thursday, July 15, 10:00 AM Join us for the second in our four-part cooking series sponsored by Skyview Center. Watch Sue Jones prepare meals that are easy, affordable and nutritious. Sample prepared foods and leave with the recipes, shopping tips and more. July's program is all about lunch! Please sign up to attend. Billiard Room Notes: WSC Champion Tournament: A month-long tournament will run July 1 through July 30 to determine a Wallingford Senior Center Billiards Champion. This event is open to members only. Tournament rules are posted in the Billiards Room. Please sign-up to participate.July 16, 12:30 PM: Wallingford vs. Hamden Tournament July 19, 1:30 PM: Coed Tournament. Sign up in the Billiards Room to participate. Just For Men Breakfast - Wednesday, July 21, 8:00 AM Tickets are $2.00 for members ($3.00 for guests) for our monthly breakfast that's just for men! Our guest speaker will be Ernest Frattini, Director of Wallingford's Office of Emergency Management (civil preparedness). Tickets are on sale until July 20. SENIOR OUTING at HOLIDAY HILL - Monday, August 23, 2010 The Annual Statewide Senior Outing at Holiday Hill will be held August 23, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event offers fun, unlimited food and music by Vinnie Carr. Tickets are $27.00 per person. Transportation is on your own. Informational flyers are available at the front desk. The last day to order tickets through the Senior Center is August 3. MEMORY LANE - Did you know that the Wallingford Senior Center is one of the few senior centers in the state to offer a social-model, adult day program? Formerly the Daily Activities for Independence Program (D.A.I.), Memory Lane is a program designed to promote and maintain independence for seniors with mild cognitive impairments. We offer a variety of different programs and activities throughout the day such as group word games, daily chair exercises, pet therapy visits, baking sessions, arts & crafts projects, and monthly day trips. Our doors open at 9:15 a.m. and close at 2:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Eligibility is based on an assessment and interview by the Memory Lane Program Coordinator, (medical clearance and meeting certain program criteria required). Please call Melinda Welch, Memory Lane Program Coordinator, at 203.265.7753, Ext. 205, for more information and your free trial day!

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.

CELEBRATIONS

Signs of Summer by Tammy Quinn

For custom made draperies that look and fit well at great prices that will surprise you call us for a free quote *Vertical Blinds *Honeycomb Shades *Wood Blinds *1” Mini Blinds *Shutters

Hamrah’s George Hamrah

(860) 628-6500

Catering for all occasions this summer at Rosa’s Deli

Helping Hands Thrift Store 22 No. Turnpike Rd. Wallingford 203 284-0300 Please note that our hours have changed. We are open Tuesday thru Sat. 9a.m.- 4:30p.m. Clearance sales will be taking place during the month so stop by often! Don't forget we have furniture and appliances to help you set up your first apartment or dorm room as well as t.v.s and household items. Save on gas by purchasing one of our reconditioned bikes! We have many new name brand clothing,shoes,purses as well as gently used items. Small appliances,knickknacks,books,jewelry,collectibles,toys,games,linens,glassware,cookware,gifts,health and beauty items,vhs,cds,dvds,cassettes and albums and so much more. Please remember we can not accept donations that are non working, stained or ripped. We offer FREE pick up in the local area for furniture, appliances that are not older than 5-10 years with the above conditions on the first or second floor only. We accept donations at the store during store hours only please do not leave items when we are closed.. Please call ahead to make sure we have available room to accept your donations and we do not accept donations after 4p.m. Helping Hands Thrift Store is very involved with helping victims of Domestic Violence through the Chrysalis Inc. and other Organizations. As always we want to thank all that purchase items or donates to the store so we can continue helping others.

Meriden Land Trust Meeting Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at 7:00 in room 28 on the ground floor of city hall. Please join us!

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Many choices of Pasta dishes, Meatballs, Sausage & Peppers, Chicken, Party Subs, Cold cut platters and so much more. Visit our website for even more selections. Visit our website at

rosasdeli.com

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

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

Page 18 July 2010

CELEBRATIONS

Christian and Daniel Fox and my Zachary Albert just hanging around at Clinton Beach!

* Auto * Home * Business * Life

John J. Kovacs Insurance Agency 208 Center Street, Wallingford

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

Going To A Picnic or Get Together? Don’t Go Over Empty Handed!

Hitting the Bricks; a musing on employment, retirement and our favorite summer activities... by Ernie Larsen Every month I sort of ignore the publisher's suggestions for stories and whip out something I have been thinking about or involved with at the moment. So when I read this months theme I really wasn't that enthused as I had a couple of paragraphs already written, which had nothing to do with my favorite things to do in the summer. As I don't write every day the next time I returned to the MacBook I got to thinking that my upcoming change of lifestyle would be a good fit for an article in which I could satisfy, sort of, the theme of the issue. And what change of lifestyle is that? RETIREMENT! Eek! Yes, my friends, after 50 or so years of employment; mostly full-time with a stint of "freelancing" which is sort of like "consulting" an occupation which some of my colleagues and I consider to be a euphemism for unemployment. Well, it is - if someone doesn't hire you, you are technically unemployed, no? In my particular case my employment experiences were quite varied to say the least; my first job, well it wasn't really a paying position - more of just helping my buddy out at his grandfather's filling station, up on North Colony Road we were both 16 and the gas station was one of the first selling non-branded gas. my buddy's grandfather would buy the gas leftover in the tanker trucks that supplied the brand-name outlets; Gulf, Esso, Cities Service, Amoco. Never heard of those brands, well most are around today under different monikers; our 'discount gas outlet' supplied gas, oil and every once in awhile we attempted to fix a flat tire. And believe it or not the building where I 'worked' is still around as the HQ for the local taxi fleet. As mentioned, I wasn't exactly an employee - like I said I was helping my friend out - well it was more like hanging around, taking turns as to waiting on the next customer if we liked the make of car coming in or if the driver was a young female; well we were just kids and this wasn't really a real job anyway; fun while it lasted but I really wanted to earn some of my own spending money; checking the want ads I saw a Help Wanted notice for Thompson Candy Company who were looking for part-time help. I'm not sure of the timing on this one, but I think it was in January, they were prepping for the Easter rush. So I applied-spent one Saturday being taught the finer points of making milk chocolate bunnies. Everything was made by hand, no automation like most of today's candy production. Well, long story short - I lasted just another 4 hour shift after my training session; it was the smell of molten chocolate that did me in, c'est la vie. So, i gave up on employment during high school, When I was in my senior year I had to make a decision on real employment; college wasn't in the books so I fell for the pitch of a smooth talking recruiting sergeant and signed the papers of intent to join the U.S. Army with an assignment to the Army Security Agency. A few weeks after my graduation from the class of 1962 I began my first real job. I had to go endure what they called Basic Infantry TrainiEssentially what they were doing was turning young men into 'trained killers'. That was somewhat of an eyeopener but I'll say it did introduce this 18 year old from a factory town to others mostly my age, from all over the US. Between that and more training at Fort Devens in Massachusetts it took up almost 5 months of my 3-year enlistment in the U.S. Army; back then you didn't have to be all you could be - it was just a stint in the military. And that was the beginning of my employment history. So, 3 years goes pretty quickly if you're having fun, my Uncle, Sam that is, treated me to a trip to Germany for 2 years, one month and 29 days. I think that put the bee in my bonnet for travel in the future. Actually, when I was discharged I spent several months in Europe following and photographing Grand Prix races on a freelance basis - yes, technically unemployed, but I did sell a few photos that kept me going for the period I was there. When I arrived home I bummed around for a couple of months and then I worked in a chemical research lab, took some courses in material science and garnered a position in the metallurgical lab at INSILCO up on Broad Street. When they went under in the late 70's I followed a couple of colleagues to a precious metals company in Waterbury. There I was active in the American Society for Metals and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and was a frequent lecturer and contributor to technical journals on the art of metallography. I did a lot of traveling for this firm. Then, lo and behold, they were sold by 'corporate' and while the new owner offered jobs in Rhode Island, I no thanks, so that began my photographic freelancing 'career'. Oh did I mention during all my full-time employment I worked part-time as a wedding photographer; probably 'shot' upwards to 500 weddings in my time. I picked up the skills whilst in the Army in Germany, the fellow who ran the Special Services photo lab taught a photo techniques class and I was an honor student. I also had a penchant to 'give back' and did occasional volunteer work. The major benefactor of my donation of time was the Meriden Daffodil Festival - I was a committee member for over 15 years. And this led to a full-time position with the City of Meriden, in the Parks Department offices. This lasted for 9 years and then the job was eliminated from the budget and I transferred to the Purchasing Department from which I will retire after 10 years of loyal service to the citizens of Meriden; July 2, 2010, which coincidentally is my birthday. I also want to mention my wife retired a couple of weeks ago, after an illustrious career with the Meriden Board of Education. So, getting back to Mr. Andy's request about what our favorite things to do in the summer; when we were first married we would head up to the Cape for a few days each summer, a place my wife and her family used to visit. Then when we had children we rented a cottage on the Connecticut shore in Clinton.. That lasted for quite a few years and after the folks who owned it, passed, we explored other opportunities, we started to travel in the summer, Bermuda, West Indies and the like. We took the children to the Bahama's, Antigua and then when they were older we started traveling on our own. Bermuda was our first summer away from home - made several trips there then Nevis, in the West Indies. Most recently Italy with my daughter and her family, her husband was born there and still has family scattered around the Campagna area. Our daughter has rented in Old Saybrook for several years and we make the trip to visit with her. We also have gone to Maine for a few days, shopping, sightseeing and just relaxing. So if it isn't the 'shore' it's the occasional day or two trip to some New England destination. I guess just normal summer stuff. And as per the publishers request I've attached one of my favorite vacation photos, kind of hard to choose, I think it's sort of unique. Happy summer to everyone. And now retirement - when we can take vacation 'whenever' - it's going to be an adventure, that's for sure. A milestone such as this gets one to thinking; not having to "put in" for vacation days - days off - coming and going as one pleases - freedom and getting paid for the experience. We have no real plans, we are seriously considering a certain volunteer activity which will take up some of our time. No traveling right away - but that will definitely happen. It's going to be a great time and certainly will be interesting - I'm sure I'll have lots to write about after I get a few months of it under my belt. See you next month.

Lights Up at WPAA-TV: Chris Olhmann is making it possible.

Bring a basket of Marianna’s Famous Cookies and satisfy their cookie craving!

Hours: Tues-Fri. 7-6; Sat. 7-4; Sun. 7-2 Closed Mondays 238-0159 • 212 West Main Street, Meriden

On July 1st a milestone was achieved with well over 1500 volunteer hours of sweat equity logged and the much anticipated partial Certificate of Occupancy awarded to WPAA-TV for 28 So. Orchard St. There is still a ways to go. The studio and performance space are in process; however more funds are needed before volunteers can complete the 3 edit suites and a training room on the 2nd floor. As part of Serve America the United Way connects volunteers to opportunities by day, project or community. WPAA-TV posted its Building Renovation Project to the United Way web-site on Jan 4th. A dozen people responded most were not Wallingford residents - but one responded and committed BIG TIME. Chris Olhmann logged 350 of the 1500 hours served. As the New Year began WPAA-TV needed a 6 month plan to relocate its home on 128 Center St. to the to-be renovated 1924 Barn at 28 So. Orchard. This would need to be accomplished by volunteers. The efforts of volunteer Chris's Olhmann made the difference. He will modestly say he was just a piece of the bigger story; and as true as that is, it was his decision to serve and serve with such dedication that gave other volunteers confidence that the mission could be accomplished and accomplished well. To honor Chris's service and the service of the handful of extremely dedicated volunteers please consider registering with igive.com/wpaa to let your Internet shopping make giving to WPAA-TV seamless, or write the DPUC in support of the funding docket #10-03-02 that asks that Wallingford money gets used for Wallingford residents. But most important - remember that WPAA-TV belongs to you. Use WPAA-TV to share what you are passionate about. For More info: www.wpaa.tv Check out News for pictures and contribution info.

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Page 19 July 2010

Wallingford Health Department Resident Survey Results Submitted by Eloise Hazelwood, Director of health Introduction Each year, the Wallingford Health Department has the opportunity to apply for funding from the State of Connecticut Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant. This funding was used in past years to provide a public health education program such as smoking cessation; cholesterol, or nutrition education. This last year, the funds were used to conduct a Community Public Health Survey. CT DPH required that a minimum of 400 residents complete the survey questionnaire, and the selection process and data collection methods had to be reviewed and approved in advance by DPH. The data was gathered using a Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) questionnaire administered by random telephone interviews and in-person interviews conducted randomly at community-wide events such as Celebrate Wallingford and the Wallingford Youth and Family Day at Doolittle Park. We were very fortunate to have a local resident, Nada Shaarbaf, a Master of Public Health (MPH) student intern from Walden University, help with the survey design and conducting the interviews, thank you Nada! We appreciate your hard work and MANY hours! We wanted to share some of the results as a "thank you" to all the residents who completed the survey. Demographics: Of the 400 Wallingford residents surveyed * 80% have lived in Wallingford more than 5 years * 83% were white, non Hispanic * 60% were married Age breakdown of respondents was: 18 to 25 years old 6% 26 to 35 years old 11% 35 to 60 years old 49% 60 years or older 34% * 54% did not have any children in the household. * 91% of the respondents spoke English as their primary language and 25% stated they spoke a 2nd language Calculated Body Mass Index

Based on respondents' stated height and weight Body Mass Index scores were calculated and categorized as Healthy, Overweight and At Risk. When asked what preventative health services they thought the town of Wallingford should provide, 65% stated Nutrition/Exercise Programs. So what are our Next Steps or but another way, now what do we do with the survey information? The Health Department is working with several partners as part of the YMCA Pioneering Healthier Communities, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant to address policy changes in a community to improve our overall health status, especially physical activity and nutrition. First Lady Michelle Obama has taken on combating childhood obesity as a national cause. One of our goals as we move forward is to explore policy options that work. Programming is wonderful but we need to make sure we support policy change to have a sustainable or long term impact on a growing concern (no pun intended). Based on the number of respondents in our survey, Wallingford is part of the national average when it comes to being overweight (35%). We don't want to be a part of that "average"; we want to be a part the Healthy and Active percentage. There are many opportunities in our community to Get Moving! The YMCA and the Wallingford Park and Recreation Department (and many local gyms) offer reduced rates for families, young children or even summer passes. Our Wallingford center is used by many folks for an evening stroll; all you need is a comfortable pair of sneakers! Why not start charting your steps and challenge yourself or a neighbor to see who can walk the most steps by Labor Day? I know we don't want to think about the fall, but we are going to host a non competitive Family Fun Walk at the start of Celebrate Wallingford. We need you help! The Wallingford Health Department would love to hear your idea for our community, together we can Motivate to Move! Drop us a line or call with your input, 203-294-2065 or wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net

NATURE AS A MIRROR by Dorothy Gonick MUSIC Tweet, chirp or warble Air is full of happy trill. Greetings happy friend. Music surrounds us wherever we are. Whether man made or from nature. There's a wide variety of birds, each with a distinctive song that we may recognize and try to copy. Some remind us of springtime, or of winter's chill. The robin in springtime adds the beauty of song to the welcoming season. The cheery Chickadee brightens the chill of winter. Other birds and creatures add their voices, whether the subdued whirs and clicks of insects or the familiar voices of pets and farm animals. The wind plays its song as it weaves its way through the leaves of trees. Sounds add depth to the scenes we view. From earliest lullabies that soothe distressful babies, and throughout our life melodies have become imprinted in our mind. Songs can lift our spirits from the doldrums; soothe our hearts in times of grief. During times of success, grief, frustration, joy, or heartache, a song will come to mind to soothe or enhance the moment and we find we are singing or humming it, and mixing it with the moment. When I was a child, I remember my grandmother playing her jolly, lively rendition of "Oh, Where Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone," on the pump organ in her parlor. We kids would try our best to play a tune while pumping the organ with our feet. It was quite a trick to master. Later our folks answered an ad for a piano and wanted us to give it our stamp of approval. We weren't good judges of quality, but were fortunate that this piano did have a good tone and we purchased it for $10.00; which was considered a fair price during the depression. Donella, a petite young musician, came to our home each week and encouraged each of us to become good pianists. We girls were impressed with her stylish clothes and high heels so we practiced diligently wanting to impress her. We had special pieces to master and play for the spring concert to entertain family and friends. We dreaded playing in public and feared we'd make mistakes, so we practiced even more, hoping panic would not set in. Alice begged that she not perform, but our folks said she must, so she bandaged a finger and told them she hurt it, pleading to be excused. The ploy didn't work and she surprised herself by playing her piece very well, even with the bandage on her finger. All across the land youth are mastering the fundamentals of music-making. Learning to play a musical instrument or singing vocally, they have the pleasure of 'making' music and bringing pleasure to lives around them. All through life, we are 'tuned' to sounds and rhythms around us. May they be cheerful and bring pleasure to each of your days.

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Page 20 July 2010

Life along the Q River‌ An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association QRWA Turtle Crossing Program The QRWA has several programs that help nature and provide additional data to concerned agencies. One of them is the Turtle Crossing Project spearheaded by QRWA board member Deb Mason. Through its Turtle Crossing Project which involves many local residents, the QRWA has provided for the monitoring and protection of the Wood turtle and the Eastern Box turtle, two of the "Species of Special Concern" in Connecticut. The Easter Box turtle is about 4 - 7 inches long and has distinctive black and yellow, orange and tan patterns on the upper and lower shell. Their habitat is woodland and meadows, ponds and wetlands in summer and in or near wetlands in winter. The Wood turtle is about 6 - 9 inches long and is an oval shape with gray - brown textured dome. The underneath is patterned yellow and black. Their habitat is foraging on land in late summer, on banks in the spring and fall and over winters in rivers and streams. Essentially as the Turtle Project Coordinator, Deb asks the public to contact her when they witness turtles crossing the road or if they find sick or injured turtles. She asks them questions to help determine the status of the turtles and provides information or refers them to knowledgeable people, including vets and turtle rehab experts. Deb has been involved with actively caring for turtles for over 28 years in which her work as a professional piano turner requires her to travel all over the state. She would stop to help turtles get to the other side of the road safely to their nesting sites in the spring or their home base in the fall. Deb was asked to join the QRWA board because of her turtle expertise and was awarded a grant from Northeast Utilities to further her turtle efforts. She has purchased signs for her Turtle Crossing Project but notes that the signs need to be placed on private property. As a QRWA member, Deb talks to groups about the current situation of the turtle population in CT. Two species of special concern are the Eastern Box turtle and the Wood turtle and while not on the endangered species lists, they are just one step away from this fate in CT. Both of these turtle habitats are being destroyed by building and this makes it harder for these turtles, especially the Eastern Box turtle, to have safe places to nest and live. The mortality rate is high for eggs and juveniles and the Eastern Box turtle does not begin to lay eggs until they are 20 years old. And the adult mortality rate is on the rise. This is when Deb can help with providing assistance to the public and providing data to the Department of Environmental Protection and other concerned agencies. The life of a turtle can be very dangerous. The female lays her eggs and the pees on the nest and never comes back to the nest. When the turtles hatch the have to make their way quickly to water, where they begin their life. Predators in the form of foxes, skunks and raccoons like to raid the nests. There are also targets when they travel to the water and while in the water as well. And as they grow to maturity to lays their eggs they usually have to cross roads to get back to the nesting sites. When Deb gets a call, she asks questions to determine if the turtle is sick or injured. Common injuries are cracked shells, obvious injuries or respiratory problems. If needed, she refer to vets and turtle rehab experts who will care for the turtle until it is able to return to original location to resume its life in the wild. Recently Deb received a call regarding a turtle found in the middle of the road, nowhere near a pond. She visited the turtle and noticed that it had no back legs, but was able to swim. In a conversation with Sigrun Gadwa, scientist and turtle expert, it was determined that the turtle was malformed, probably from the chemical runoff into out waterways and expects to see more of this type of deformity. So if you see a turtle crossing the road, consider assisting them get to the other side. It's important to note to bring them to the side in which they are heading. Then contact Deb at 203-4947610 and let her know so she can keep track of the turtle population and trending in the area. QWRA president Ginny Chirsky has nothing but praise for Deb. "Deb has single-handedly taken on this turtle project and we and the rest of the community applaud her efforts. She is caring and passionate about 'her' turtles and we can all thank her for ensuring that turtles continue to be part of our environment." Recently turtle eggs were found in the newly planted Butterfly & Bee Garden and in the compost pile by the garden coordinator JoAnne Grabinski. I called Deb and she talked me through the process to ensure that the turtle eggs we safely taken care of, and reminded me to mark the location

ROCK OUT! HAVE FUN! PLAY DRUMS!

with wire fencing. It is amazing and amusing that the garden has become a host to butterflies, bees and now turtles too. Deb in is the planning process to have a fundraiser to bring awareness to the challenges of the turtles of special concern. Please check the QRWA website for more information as it becomes available, www.qrwa.org. And remember to be careful of turtles trying to cross the road. They just want to get to the other side and continue on with their journey. Upcoming QRWA Events: Summer Paddle Program - July and August, 2010. In cooperation with the City of Meriden's Community Development Block Grant Program, QRWA staff and interns will offer family paddling days. To register, call (203) 237-2237. The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is a 501c3 organization whose mission is to restore the Quinnipiac for the health and enjoyment of all citizens and communities along its reach and to educate all students, families, individuals, businesses and governments to be informed stewards of the river. We provide water activities, events in education, outreach, advocacy, scientific monitoring, conservation, restoration, recreation and public access to the watershed area. To learn more about the QRWA and future events, please visit our website at www.qrwa.org. Thank you for your support and remember your donations are tax deductible.

Adopt a Shelter Animal Now! Hi I'm Sherman, my siblings and friends have been wondering why no one has come to adopt us. We are extremely cute, lovable and are litter box trained. I am sure you will fall in love with at least one of us. As far as kittens go, I know for a fact that I would get along with your other animals with no problem. My friends and I would love to grow up with your children and give them lots of love. So, please come visit us today and consider adoption as your first choice in choosing a pet for your family. Meow for now, Love Sherman. If it's a great dog your interested in, then why not come see Tuesday. She is a 1 yr. old Shepherd/Pit Bull Terrier Mix that was surrendered by her owners, because she needed puppy training. Imagine having a family love you for a year and then give you up because you couldn't train yourself the way they wanted you to behave. Go figure! Well, they must have done something right, because she is completely housebroken and extremely sweet. This poor girl just needs a second chance in finding her forever home. Could you be that home? Why not come visit her and see. The Meriden Humane Society has many events featuring the North Shore Animal League Adoption Van, filled with our animals at many different locations in July. Please visit our website at www.meridenhs.petfinder.com to see a listing of all our fundraisers and van dates. Also, please start putting aside any tag sale items that you would like to donate, whether it be for our annual tag sale in September or the one Doogie's (see our website) is having for us.. We appreciate anything you can help us out with for these two events. Got old towels, sheets or blankets (no comforters right now)? We could definitely use them A.S.A.P. right now! We are also very short on Purina Kitten and Cat Chow, ground wet food and meat flavored 1st stages of babyhood. Because we have so many kitties, we go through a lot of food. We do not want our babies going hungry. If you could add a few cans or a bag of food to your grocery cart, it would be very much appreciated. Thank you and see you at the shelter! Lori Peck, MHS

Wallingford YMCA Summer Swim Lessons Still Available!! Join us for 2x a week swim lessons, once a week swim lessons or private swim lessons. Lessons available for all ages throughout the entire summer! Lessons available in the warm water instructional pool as well as in our 4 lane lap pool. Pre-registration is required. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

Pick Your Own Blueberries

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

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

OPEN EVERY WEEKEND IN JULY!

Page 21 July 2010

Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals Dear Readers, Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advice from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail at peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com or by phone at 203-235-9333 with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue. - HAVE A SAFE AND ENJOYABLE SUMMER! - June and Flora Dear Housewives, Why is texting taking over our lives? It is dangerous and people do it while driving. People of all ages are doing it. Am I crazy or are they? Texamania JUNE: First of all, you are not crazy. You are right. Texting has taken over everyone. Texting while driving is as dangerous as drunken driving. Aside from the dangers it is rude. I have been in school meetings or talking with someone while they are looking at their phone constantly then responding all while we are conversing. People put the phones down and remember your manners!!! FLORA: Amen June. People of all ages are looking at their phones constantly. I am starting to wonder if this is in fact a confidence issue. People seem to be validated and feel wanted and important by being in constant contact with others. But are people really developing relationships this way? I tend to think not... Texting and driving is so dangerous and so many newly licensed drivers are doing it. If you are guilty of this-commit to stop the texting and driving NOW! Dear Housewives, There is a huge push for our children to get the Gardasil vaccination as early as age 9. It claims to not even stop someone from getting all types of the virus that causes cancer so is it worth it for me to vaccinate my 10 year old daughter? - Informed Parents Wanted FLORA: Why don't families start with their young children and teach them to value themselves, their bodies and to save the gift of intimacy for adulthood. That makes much more sense then injecting young girls with 3 doses of a vaccine that was clinically trialled on adult women (very few teens from what I read). Gardasil in my opinion was a Merck/Political lobbying backroom deal. How in the world would this drug make it to market in the manner that it did without someone/group getting paid off. JUNE: I do not think anyone should any vaccine for their child without researching it. I feel this drug is too new to have ample long term facts about it. I also do not think any child needs this at the age of 9 or 10. No kid should be having sex at this age and by the time they are older, other measures should be pushed considering there are many other diseases that Gardasil does not protect against. I would vote no as far as getting this vaccine. This may be a big money maker for the drug company but I can't see any reason it is necessary for our kids. Chit Chat JUNE: Hi Flora, I am reading a new book right now. It is called "A Lucky Child, A Memoir of Surviving Auschwitz as a Young Boy by Thomas Buergenthal. This is a heart wrenching account of a young child in the middle of one of the most horrible atrocities of man, the extermination of the Jews in Germany. There is so much sadness in this book but it is also a story of hope and survival as well as luck. I would recommend this book. FLORA: Hi June! Your book pick reminds me of a spring read of mine..."Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl. Every high schooler should read it so people are reminded of what happened in that dark chapter of history. I read "Making Rounds with Oscar" by Dr. David Dosa .. Oscar is a cat that has a special way of detecting when someone is near the end of their life. He lives on a dementia unit in Rhode Island. The book tells much more than a cat story....It touches on family, end of live care and relationships. I loved it!! If I don't finish "Gone with the Wind" anytime soon, I will scream....I can't seem to flow with it, yet I am enjoying it. Perhaps it is the size of the book that is so daunting..."The Help" by Kathryn Stockett came highly recommended and rightfully so! It was a fast moving, well-written novel that takes place in Mississippi in the 1960's on the cusp of the Civil Rights Movement. The three main characters are two black maids and a white college grad. Get a copy, sit back and enter into a time not too long ago. You will feel as though you and the characters are friends and the story will stay with you long after you finish it!

MID-WEEK OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT COMES TO DOWNTOWN MERIDEN Starting on June 9th at noon there will be music on the green in downtown Meriden brought to you by Sandman Productions along with a host of local merchants. While listening to music and getting reacquainted with your downtown, enjoy special picnic lunch specials prepared for you by three of our culinary sponsors. Prepare yourself for 12 weeks of entertainment free of charge. The music spans all styles and eras of music from swing to jazz to top 40 cover music and more. If you're concerned with where to park‌.not to worry! There is free parking at lots on Colony St. and Church St. and of course the old Hub just on the other side of the tracks. And if you're early enough you should be able to get two hour validated parking in the garage behind the green off Grove St. or in the Butler St. parking lot. Now you don't have any excuse for not showing up to take advantage of the best family fair starting Wednesday June 9th and running straight through the summer till August 25th. Bring a blanket or folding chair and a friend and prepare to be entertained. A listing of dates and musical entertainment will be available at sponsor locations and selected retailers.

Golf Tournament The 12th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 11th at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford beginning with registration and a full American breakfast set for 7:30 A.M. A scramble shotgun start will be at 8:30 A.M. All proceeds will benefit the club's special education scholarship fund. The $125.00 fee includes 18 holes w/cart, tee package, cash awards, pro shop gift certificates, $1500 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. Make checks payable to M/W Civitan Club with entry form no later than August 1st and mail to 174 Highland Ave. Wallingford, Ct. 06492. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685.

LocalMotion - Local Website

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CELEBRATIONS

Trinity Ladies Club held their Tenth Anniversary and Installation Dinner recently at Violi’s Restaurant in Meriden. Past presidents Marfha Trujillo and Ann Dombrowski were present. Father Gary Simeone presented a plaque commemorating the Tenth Anniversary of TLC and their dedication to Most Holy Trinity Church and community. Pictured is the 20102011 Executive Board. From right are: Presiden Muriel Passariello, Vice President Betty Hayden, Treasurer Lucy Rusczek and Corresponding Secretary Annette Ducatelli.

Page 22 July 2010

What is one to say about June, the time of perfect young summer, the fulfillment of the promise of the earlier months, and with as yet no sign to remind one that its fresh young beauty will ever fade. ~Gertrude Jekyll There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart. ~Celia Thaxter

CELEBRATIONS

These 2 are just having too much fun. I wonder who they are?

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Have you ever been to Block Island? My mom, my two children and I take a yearly trip each June for a Tuesday through Thursday stay at an Inn to explore paradise, just a ferry ride away. We just returned from our sixth trip and are starting to feel a bit like regulars. Let me share a bit of a nearby island paradise. Block Island is 13 miles south of Rhode Island and shaped like a pear, with the 'stem' closest to Rhode Island. Looking at a map of B.I., you'll notice the pear shape, but some people will see it shaped more like a duck. Block Island is three miles wide by seven miles long. We choose not to take a car to the island. B.I. is best explored on foot, an occasional cab or bike. The less cars, the better… We drive our car from Connecticut to Point Judith, Rhode Island, leave it in a lot while gulls fly over it for three days, take the ferry to B.I., enjoy the island then once we're back on the mainland, drive through a car wash before heading home. One has the option to take the high-speed ferry or the traditional. We like to take the large, slower (only by 25 minutes) traditional ferry to save the money and to savor the trip (55 minutes). The sounds of the ferry horn, the waves, eating Good n' Plenty, drinking water, playing games, reading the Block Island Times fills the fifty-five minutes. Why rush it? The ferry landing is on the east side of the island, mid-way down so when you are almost there you get a nice view of the bluffs on the northeast side of the island. Getting off the ferry is orderly, when you have people, a few dogs, bikes, cars and trucks. The first visible landmark is The National Hotel along with all the shops along Water Street. Once we disembark, we take a taxi (and there are plenty of them) to our inn, settle in and then take off for adventures. My mom wears a pedometer that we incorporate into a game where the kids guess how far it is to our destination; who ever is the closet gets $1.00. It's fun and takes our mind off the miles we put on our sneakers! We enjoy gong on walks and hikes. The island is filled with the Greenway Trail system, which consists of miles of maintained hiking trails that are clearly marked on guest maps. One thing we enjoy doing on B.I. is letterboxing. Letterboxing is a fun way to explore places you otherwise may not stumble upon. Letterboxing.org and atlasvista.com are two great websites to get you started. In a nutshell, letterboxing is a treasure hunt of sorts. You print out clues from the aforementioned websites, come prepared with a zip-lock bag with an inkpad, stamp, pen, an unruled little notebook, and a compass (optional). We typed in 'Block Island' on the two websites mentioned and found some great letterboxing clues. The clues lead you to a hidden weatherproof box that holds a stamp, an inkpad, and a notebook. You stamp their pad with your personal stamp, date it, put your name and where you are from and then you take their stamp and stamp your notebook, date it, and make notes of the journey to the letterbox if you desire. I want to share about the beauty and charm of B.I., so if you are interested in Letterboxing, I invite you to visit the websites. B.I. beaches are varied; some are rocky with the nice big smooth rocks while others have sand soft as powder. They all have something to offer. Off the Clay Head Trail on the northeast side, the beach is rocky; some areas you can lay a blanket other area looked like a mini Stonehenge. Creative beach goers carefully place stacks of rocks all over the place.

There are so many good restaurants on B.I. We make sure that we have a meal at The Oar. This restaurant is at New Harbor (a fifteen minute walk form where the ferry lands), sits right on the water and has hundreds of unique oars decorating the walls and ceiling. The food is consistently good and reasonably priced. I love the mediterranean salad with pan-seared tuna. We make a few trips to Froozies, a healthy alternative small juice bar and cafe that serves fabulous smoothies, wraps and great organic coffee. Froozies is located on the back porch of the National Hotel (the big landmark you see when your ferry docks). A few yards away is the Island Free Library…we did not pop in this year but have been faithful all the years past. It's a great little library! There is a lot to do in this gem off of Rhode Island. Come visit! Have some Block Island fudge, cool off with a cup of Del's frozen lemonade, savor a delicious lobster roll, count the cars coming off the ferry, walk the jetty. Whatever you decide, you are sure to enjoy yourself. Block Island is filled with people living their dreams whether it is a merchant selling textiles, organic vegetables, or jewelry, artisans, photographers, fishermen, you name it. This island captures people. Many people work a summer and never leave. There is something about the people, the sounds, and the beauty that can make you come back year after year. Maryann Santos - Meriden, CT

Trip to Pacific North West We Embarked June 14th for an 8 day trip to first stop Seattle. It was cold & raining. I have to say the trip became more exciting as we traveled along the Oregon coastline. There are no hotels, motels or houses on the ocean side. Beautiful beaches with huge rocks, which add to its beauty. We stopped several times to take pictures,& I rolled up my pants to run in the water. Although I was cautioned it's to cold it didn't stop me after all I live in New England our waters are cold too. I imagined we were opposite N.E. We saw the beautiful Rose Gardens the Seals on Pier 39. On to San Francisco. Lots to see very very crowded, I found myself disoriented at times not knowing what to see first. China Town had wonderful farmers markets the prices were so much less than anywhere else. The coach tour was helpful to point out areas. We had a snow storm on Mt Hood. We traveled with mostly wonderful Wallingford people from The Senior Center, had a great time with old travel companions Rose & Bill Shaw who by the way turned 80 June 26th.A big Happy Birthday to Bill. Pictures of The rainbow outside our hotel room, snow on Mt Hood Beaches & Seals to be included after all Homes Best. - Carole Golitko

What I do in the summer. Okay I was asked to write a story about what I do in the summer time so here we go. I will be taking my 3 children to Lake Compounce as much as we can stand it. So far it has been great minus all the rain lol. My children are all attending camp in July both of my boys are in scouts. They are looking forward to see what they will learn this year. My daughter will be doing cheerleading later on in the summer. When I get too much time on my hands or get stressed I grab my camera and I find places to take pictures of any thing. It is a great way for me to clear my head so to say. Then I also send letters and care packages to various soldiers through Soldiers Angels. That is most of what I do so I can let soldiers know that they are not forgotten and that they are supported and loved as well. Soldiers Angels is a big part of my life and my kids write the soldiers as well. They love it. Aside from that I have the family time with my kids and husband when we grill outside which is a lot during the summer. Okay it might sound boring but I enjoy all my time and I would not want it any other way than what I have and what I do. Lisa from Meriden

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Page 23 July 2010

People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon Look for the answers in this issue. ACROSS 1. Buffalo 5. Picnic pests 9. American inventor of the telephone. 12. Fish eggs 13. Coded 16. Nocturnal bird of prey 17. Famous Civil War general 18. Uncooked 19. Breakfast food cooked in an "iron" 21. An organism living in, with, or on another organism 24. National women's organization for descendants of people who aided the 13 Colonies in their rebellion from 1775 to 1783 26. Person expected to take over; a beneficiary or successor 27. To grow weary. 30. The egg or young of a louse. 32. A direction. 33. Founder of CNN and TNT; also former husband of Jane Fonda (initials) 34. American holiday celebrated on July 4. 37. An American slave and leader of the Southampton Insurrection in 1831. (initials) 38. Captain Ahab hunted these large marine mammals. 39. A port city in northwestern Algeria and the country's 2nd largest city. 40. One of the Three Stooges. 41. Back, astern, (nautical) 42. Mealtime apparel accessory worn by babies and small children. 44. "Thank your lucky _______." 46. The 13th letter of the Greek alphabet. 47. Lipton, Celestial Seasoning, Snapple, e.g. 49. He played "Archie Bunker". (initials). 50. A kind of basketwork wear in a river, for catching fish. 53. A woman's undergarment. 54. Crazy, deranged, psychopathic, 57. Any of various one-celled aquatic or parasitic protozoans, having no definite form with one or more nuclei with a flexible outer membrane. 59. Imitate 60. Nostrils. 62. Strikes with an open hand. 64. Irony, sarcasm, or caustic with used to attack or expose folly, vice, or stupidity. 67. TV's talking horse, Mr. _____". 69. International organization concerned with the treatment of animals. (acronym) 70. Doctor with a drill, (initials). 71. Opposite of yes. DOWN 1. Foreheads. 2. Midwestern state with Des

Moines as it's capital. 3. "Enjoy your_____, it's later than you think."" 4. 1994 movie starring Jodie Foster, Liam Neeson & Natasha Richardson. 5. An expert. 6. First Lady of USA from 1981 to 1989. (initials) 7. Model and CBS talk show hostess _________ Banks. 8. Bowling term. 9. "To ___ or not to___, that is the question." 10. Name of the dog on the TV sitcom "Fraiser". 11. "Give me _________ or give me death". 14. Necessity, shortage insufficiency. 15. Airline purchased by Howard Hughes in 1939. (Initials) 20. Aerial displays often seen on the 4th of July. 21. Arrogant, disdainful. 22. Thin, fine, and transparent. 23. British Liner that sank in April 1912 after crashing into an iceberg. 25. Pseudonym of Abigail Van Buren's sister. 27. A yellow crystalline compound, used mainly as a high explosive. 28. A photo __ is required before you can board a commercial airliner. 29. One of the books of the Bible in the New Testament, written by Paul. 31. Examine or quiz. 32. A large display found in almost every sports stadium or arena. 34. Hotels or lodges which provide overnight accommodations for travelers. 35. Every one of a group considered individually. (abr.) 36. To strike or hit lightly. 40. First African-American singer to perform at New York's Metropolitan Opera. (Initials) 43. Singer, Bruce Springsteen, is also known as "The ______". 45. A three base hit in baseball. 48. Form of the verb "to be". 51. Acronym for the nucleic acid is found in cells and that carries genetic information. 52. Actor, James Dean, starred in the 1955 movie, "_______ of Eden". 54. An abdominal muscle. (Slang) 56. Clean and tidy. 58. An ending of a prayer. 59. Snake associated with Cleopatra. 61. Corn container. 63. Ma and ___ Kettle. 65. A photo ___ is required before you can board a commercial airliner. 66. Long time 81 year old stage and screen actress, recently played 2005 "Gertrude" in the movie, "Monsterin-Law" and currently filming "Broadway: Beyond the Golden Age". (Initials) 68. To perform or execute

Frugal Living: Getting MORE for LESS in Connecticut! By Gina Juliano We all know using coupons helps us save money. However, if you want to get the most out of those little pieces of paper, there are a few guidelines you may want to follow in order to maximize your savings. 1. Refrain from clipping your coupons from the Sunday inserts. I can't tell you how many people cut out their coupons and then never use them or lose them at the bottom of their purses. When you clip coupons, you tend to forget what you have and where they are. I like to write the date I received the coupons on the top of the insert so I can identify where to find the coupon when I need it. For example, if a couponing site tells me I can find a coupon for Hood Sour Cream in the June 6th Smart Source insert, I know I can find it without too much trouble. I don't have to sort through hundreds of clipped coupons to find the one I want. 2. Wait for items to go on sale. When I didn't know any better, I would get my Sunday inserts, cut out all the coupons I wanted to use, and then promptly go to the store and buy the items. I was happy because I got a few cents off the item. I shudder to think that's how I shopped before my epiphany of smart couponing. Unless you are in absolute desperate need of a particular item, hold on to your (unclipped) coupons and wait for a sale. Most items tend to go on sale in a 12 week cycle, so chances are you'll be able to use your coupon before it expires. I still have coupon inserts from January and February that I match with sale items. Typically, I hold onto coupon inserts for 6 months before I discard them. 3. Buy more than one Sunday paper.. Although you may be spending about $2.00 on each paper, I promise you the coupon savings will pay off in spades. I always buy at least four additional Sunday papers just to get the coupon inserts. Many times, the additional papers help me stock up on items for free or really cheap. Recently, for example, ShopRite had Ronzoni Smart Taste pasta on sale for $1.00 each. I had four .75/1 coupons which enabled me to buy six boxes of pasta for free after the coupons doubled at the store. That one deal alone was definitely worth the price of the extra papers I bought. 4. Stack your coupons whenever possible. Stacking coupons means using a store coupon with a manufacturer's coupon.. Target is a great store for stacking coupons. They have their own coupons you can print and stack with a manufacturer's coupon to maximize your savings. Here's a great example of how stacking coupons works: Target had Scrubbing Bubbles Extend-A-Clean shower cleaners for $6.99. There was a $3 Target coupon, a $5 manufacturer's coupon AND another manufacturer's coupon for a free refill.. Therefore, after stacking all these coupons, I got the shower cleaner and a refill FREE. Not too shabby! 5. Price match whenever possible. Most stores want to keep your business, so they will honor a competitor's price of an item in their own store. I was able to get a DVD at Christmas time for really cheap because I had a flier from Walmart I took to Target and price matched. Because I also had a Target store coupon, the DVD cost only $2.00. My husband does price matching at Best Buy all the time, too. He is in the Best Buy club and receives discount coupons for items. When he does and it's something he wants, he'll go on line and search out other stores' prices to see if it's cheaper anywhere else. If it is, he takes documentation to Best Buy and they always match the price. With the lower price and the use of the Best Buy coupons, my husband always gets really good deals! Gina is the creator of Gina's Kokopelli, a Connecticut blog dedicated to all things coupon, free and cheap. You can get more frugal tips, freebies, coupons, and great deals by visiting her blog at http://ginaskokopelli.blogspot.com. Gina also teaches free couponing classes and would love to be invited to your organization or business to teach a class. For more information or to inquire about a couponing class, please email her at ginaskokopelli@yahoo.com. She's also happy to answer any couponing question you may have!

Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce News and Events The work of the Greater Meriden Chamber envelopes the principles of Leadership, Education, Networking & Promotion. Staff and volunteers work tirelessly to support our 625+ members and strive to make our community as a whole a great place to live, work and play. WHAT IS A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE? Speaking for the Greater Meriden Chamber: We are a 501c(6) not-for-profit organization. We rely on membership dues and member sponsorships (in addition to other forms of "non-dues" revenue) and some grant funding to operate and conduct business on a daily basis. We are an advocate for business and economic development We welcome ANY and ALL businesses / organizations to join us - BIG things are happening and we invite those businesses who are currently doing business here or desire to do business in the Greater Meriden Area to add their name to our membership roster. ATTENTION PARENTS & STUDENTS: Mark your calendars for December 2010 - and remember to download the education award application from the community services section of www.meridenchamber.com, or pick one up at your high school guidance office. Generally, the deadline to return the applications is the end of January, and students are presented with their award at the Chamber's Annual Meeting & Dinner which is held in April. Remember, whether you are looking for a service, looking to purchase something new, or have the urge to volunteer your time at a local agency, look first to your local chamber members. Those are the businesses that see value in the connection to the community that membership brings. And, surveys have indicated that consumers are more likely to buy from chamber members because they are ethical, credible businesses. These businesses voluntarily join the chamber to be a part of Networking, Education, Leadership & Networking - the main focus of the work of the chamber. Become a FAN of Greater Meriden Chamber on Facebook! Join the over 165 Facebook Friends who are already FANS of the Greater Meriden Chamber!

CRAFT FAIR at VASA PARK The Village Arts and Craft Show will be held on Sunday July 25, 2010 10 AM to 4 PM. This is our first show open to the public. Please come and enjoy the day in our park. This is a fundraiser for our scholarship fund. There is a $2.00 parking fee. The park is located at 358 Main Street in South Meriden If there are any local artist or crafter's interested in being part of our show you may contact Linda at gsteinmiller@cox.net or 860-563-0040. GET 4 BONUS PAGES OF THE PEOPLE'S PRESS AT WWW.PEOPLESPRESSNEWS.COM!

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Page 24 July 2010

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"The Bus" By Jeffrey Hamelin Part 2 of 3 That is it! No sweat! There was absolutely no question about it! I was going for it! This was going to be the day! That is right, I knew just what had to be done, and I knew just how to do it! I had the entire caper planned out in my head. First I was going to stroll down the aisle [I almost always sat in the front seat, the one on the right] and hide out in the back of the bus and try discretely to make myself very, very small. So small in fact that the bus driver won't even see me. I will then go past my stop. Then I like so many of my French explorer ancestors before me would begin my expedition. I will be on my magnificent safari! I will admit that I did not know the names of all of the streets, or just where the bus would go after it went past where I usually got off. Not to fear. Hadn't my father told me more than once, hadn't he drilled into my head that, "If by some chance you miss your bus stop, don't get excited, just stay on the bus till it works its way through the Village. It will automatically follow the same route back towards the City! If this happens, do not panic! Just wait till the bus comes back up the hill, and then pull the cord!" [The cord was just that, it was a cord that stretched the length of the bus on both sides. The Cord was connected to a buzzer, and it was used to signal the bus driver when one wanted to be let of the bus somewhere along the route other than at a predetermined stop.] Dad also told me that if for some reason or other this happened, I was to calmly and politely tell the bus driver as soon as I noticed my mistake. The bus driver would then make certain that on the way back I would be let off at the right stop. Now I had certainly been to "The Village" at least a million times before with the grownups that is. I had gone with my Dad more times than even he could count. We often went to the "Dump" [now known to the P.C. World as the Land Fill] to get rid of the family garbage or perhaps an old piece of furniture, building scraps, or leaves and yard debris. Why on several occasions I had even gone with our neighbor George to "The Airport" to watch the airplanes as they took off and landed. More than a time or two I would go with my uncle or with dad while he or they shopped at one of the local shops like the hardware store owned by Mr. Lehman. Occasionally my Dad would stop in at Barney's Gas Station and chat with the owner. [One time we stopped there to put air in my bike's front tire after my dad had fixed the tube with a patch.] I remember even stopping in at Terragna's, the village drug store. I would sit patiently at the soda fountain sipping on vanilla dishwater [a curious mix of vanilla syrup, milk, and soda water. When mixed together it would foam up and look like soapy glass of water.] While my Dad tested some of our TV tubes to find the "bad one" and replace it so that we all could watch Ed Sullivan and the rest of the Sunday night lineup. This day however was going to be an entirely new ball game. I had finally gotten up enough gumption to give it a try. I would take the plunge. To heck with whatever consequences would befall me. I would throw all caution to the wind. No matter what, I WAS GOING FOR IT! Well this was it. The bus rounded the corner from West Main onto Hanover Street and pulled up to its appointed spot not ten feet from where I was standing. Everyone including me moved closer to the curb and stood in line. I thought it best not to be at the front of the line or at the back, and that somewhere in the middle would be "safest. I must admit that my pulse quickened more than just a bit. My right palm became very moist when I reached into my right front pocket to grab hold of my transfer. I retrieved it, carefully folding the thin very porous paper and stuck it between my lips making certain not to get it wet. [If you got your transfer wet there was a very good chance that the paper would stick to your upper lip and when you went to yank it out of your mouth to give to the bus driver a bit of lip would more than likely go with it. If the truth were known this had happened to me more than once or twice. This action always resulted in a lot of pain and the loss of what seemed to be gallons of blood.] Where was I, ah yes, with my transfer between my lips, and my schoolbooks clutched under my left arm I boarded the bus. I nodded politely to the bus driver handing him my transfer averting my eyes so as not to be noticed. I made my way slowly down the aisle to the very back of the bus and deposited myself in the right rear seat. I must admit that I had never sat that far back in the bus before. Not only was the seat different, [it went the entire width of the bus] but the Cord [remember the cord] did not stretch all of the way to the back. The windows ended at the row of seats in front of me so the view was not quite as good. Who cares? I had made it all the way back here and I had completed at least two parts of my rather intricate plan without being discovered. I was positive that the bus driver had not noticed that I was not in my regular seat. What was more important was I had reached the back of the bus. Yes, yes! So far so good! The bus started out, my heart began to race so hard that I was certain that I could actually hear it beating. We passed the back of Grants Department store on the right, Good! Good! Across the street was The Charles Parker Company where my Uncle John worked [I hoped he didn't see me!], the bus built up steam, it's wheels dancing as we crossed Cook Avenue with its remnants of exposed brick and trolley tracks. We easily made the light with time to spare. Suddenly the buzzer sounded. Someone had pulled the Cord. The bus driver took his foot off the accelerator then onto the brake and pulled to the curb while stopping. A tired looking old man wearing a Panama hat carrying his rumpled jacket over his arm exited the bus from the rear doors. This put him down directly in front of Fazio's Barber Shop where he sluggishly made his way to the front door next to the twirling barber pole. As he entered the shop, one could hear the tingling of the little bell that was attached to the door. I crouched down so as not to be seen.

MidState Medical Center to offer Well Child Clinics for Town of Wallingford MidState Medical Center, in conjunction with VNA Healthcare, will be offering "Well Child Clinics" to the residents of Wallingford beginning in July. "Well Child Clinics" promote the good health of children and provide both health education and counseling on children's growth and development, nutrition, minor illnesses, safety, and more. They are designed to provide vaccines and school physicals for children aged birth through 18 years (or high school completion) that are un/underinsured. Wallingford's "Well Child Clinics" are scheduled for July 22nd and 29th. Appointments will be taken at the end of June. Community Health Services assistance programs are available to Wallingford residents based on financial need (initial intake requires proof of income). Call 203-886-6435 for an appointment. In addition, Nutritional Services will be provided through the Meriden Health Department. Wallingford residents may schedule an appointment directly at the Meriden Health Department (203-630-4245). For more information, please contact Eloise Hazelwood, Director of Health for the Wallingford Health Department, at 203-294-2065.

Curing Pain with Acupuncture Millions of Americans live in constant pain: headaches, migraines, PMS, arthritis, IBS without any relief. Taking ibuprofen and other painkillers only lead to ulcers and stomach ache, which in turn add to the vicious cycle of pain. We miss work, enjoy life less, and rarely have any relief. So, what else are we to do to feel better? Turn and look at an area of the world that has some of the lowest levels of pain diseases, the lowest levels of headaches, PMS, and pain. People in Eastern Asia have been using acupuncture for five thousand years to improve pain and cure all types of disease. Now, in the United States it becoming so popular that acupuncturists are in almost every town, and our local schools (University of Bridgeport) are teaching Master's programs in acupuncture.. Locally, Dr. Nicole Kerr, is an expert in the fine art of acupuncture healing. Recipient of the Golden Needle Award, she has reduced the pain in people with migraines, PMS, abdominal pain and joint pain. Most of her patients feel improved after the first treatment. Emily from Cheshire was at Dr. Kerr's office, Harvest Park Naturopathic Medicine, last week with a migraine, 10 out of 10 in pain severity, "I could barely see, the pain was so bad, but forty-five minutes later, the pain was down to a 2 out of 10. She is miraculous!" Most all of us have heard of acupuncture, and some have tried it. Most people are cautious because of the thought of needles. Dr. Kerr reassures, "People who are nervous at first, relax immediately after they see how thin the acupuncture needles are. They are inserted just under the skin, and most people don't feel them. It's actually quite relaxing." "Everyone should try acupuncture at least once," Jim from Wallingford told us, "I didn't think anything could help me, but now I get acupuncture religiously." Many insurance plans now cover integrative healing such as acupuncture, and Dr.. Kerr's office accepts Anthem, Aetna, Healthnet, and Connecticare. They are located on North Plains Industrial Park Road, next to Faulkner Physical Therapy. Dr. Kerr can be contacted through her website NaturopathicAnswer.com and appointments can be made by calling 203-500-5532.

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Page 25 July 2010

Help US! Masters Manna Needs Volunteers Have you every wanted to do something good for your community in need. Well you can… Masters Manna Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen is Wallingford own Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen serving people in need of Food, Clothing, a hot meal and more. Right now we need people who can come to the Pantry and take on responsiblity and volunteer in Area's that are needed. Escorters to help shoppers on Food Pantry days. Soup Kitchen people who can help with serving food, bagging food,and keeping the Soup Kitchen clean. Also we need people who can be Stockers to restock the Pantry shelves before the next day of Pantry operations. Our Food Pantry is open to the needy on Tues.9 AM- 12 Noon and Thursday's 9-12 PM, Fridays 4 PM -8 PM. Monday and Wednesday's we are open for donations of clothing,Food Items, and Books . For us the bottom-line is we need you to become a volunteer. You make Masters Manna what it is with your community involvement. So get involved come on down and see one of Connecticut's largest Food Pantry and Soup Kitchens in New Haven County. When you walk in say I am here to Volunteer. You can always call Masters Manna at 203-678-3042 if you have any questions. Masters Manna is open weekdays from 9 AM -4 PM Monday through Thursday and Friday's 9 AM -8PM.

Wallingford YMCA Babysitter's Training Class This American Red Cross Class is structured for those 11-15 years of age. Through hands on activities, interactive video and lively discussions, this course Teaches young people how to make good decisions, create age appropriate play, demonstrate first aid skills including rescue breathing and choking. Pre-Registration is required. Please contact Lisa Hoover for the next scheduled Class: lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

CELEBRATIONS

Be Careful When Cooking! The Meriden Fire Department's Local 1148 would like to remind everyone to be careful when cooking. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires. Never leave the stove unattended while cooking. You only have moments to either extinguish the fire or escape. Below are tips in case of a grease/oil fire on the stovetop: 1. Evacuate everyone from the home. Fires spread extremely fast and can overwhelm victims in minutes. 2. Call 911 There's no reason to wait, even if you think the fire is out, the fire department can check for fire spread in the cabinets and behind walls. 3. The easiest way to smother a grease fire is to cover it with a pan lid. Be careful with glass lids; they can break from the extreme heat of open flame. Do NOT remove the pot or pan from the stovetop. After putting on the lid turn the burner off and allow to fully cool before removing cover.

CLICK IF YOU MUST By Audrey C. Linke One Woman's Journal "It's a guy thing," my friend said. I wouldn't know about that--I only knew one guy and he loved to click. In the evening, after supper, we'd make our way to the living room to watch a movie, or something, anything, for the evening. He would take possession of the cllicker and click away. Then click some more. It wouldn't matter if we had a TV Guide--there was no fun in that--he just liked to click. He clicked through every channel at least twice before he settled on a program, more often than not a movie. By the time he settled, the story would be well advanced and we had no idea what it was about. We spent the rest of the evening trying to figure out what the plot might be, what the hero was up to, which of the actresses might be the love interest, or where the story was set. Add to the confusion, my delicate hearing and at the end of the movie my guy and I had seen two entirely different plots, characters, relationships, and conclusions. As we compared notes we'd realize we'd experienced two different stories, and then it was time to share a good laugh. If we subscribed to two TV Guides, it would make no difference. There is no substitute for the pure joy of just clicking the remote. I hope there are clickers in heaven or he'll be lost. To tell the truth I'm lost without the clicker myself, and the dear husband who clicked it for me.

Wallingford Twilight Tunes 2010 Wednesday evenings on the Wallingford Parade Grounds Sponsored by Wallingford Parks & Recreation and Stop and Shop Supermarkets from 7:00-8:30pm. Wednesday July 21, 2010 - Late For Dinner Band Late For Dinner is a 5 piece Connecticut based band who have been performing rock, blues and R&B in the Connecticut area for the past 10 years. Come and see what everyone is talking about. Wednesday August 4, 2010 - Latanya Farrell & The Bookman Styles Band" The unmatched vocal talent of 2003 Connecticut Star Search winner Latanya Farrell, great instrumentation and a ton of charisma. With a focus on soulful rhythms and a highly popular set-list, this group truly shines every time they are on stage. From smooth vocal favor-ites, to upbeat dance tunes - classic to contemporary. Wednesday August 11, 2010 - Benny and the Jets Benny and the Jets is the world's premiere Elton John Tribute band. Enjoy the music, entertainment and costumes by Massachusetts performer Greg Ransom. Wednesday August 18, 2010 - The Blue Agaves The Blue Agaves rock music, ranging from the Beatles to Pat Benetar. You will be greeted with the powerful, yet, soulful vocals. The Blue Agaves appeal to a wide range of audiences and are perfect for an August evening. Wednesday August 25, 2010 - The 101 Band Original, contemporary, feel-good music at it finest. Six veteran musicians blend intricate chord structures, detailed arrangements and precision vocal harmonies with great lyrics, to deliver memorable, toe-tapping, tune-humming songs. The song styles are full range, from the Beatles, to Steely Dan, the Grateful Dead to The Band and Leonard Cohen to the Beach Boys.

Wallingford YMCA Infant/Child/Adult CPR with AED Class Classes instructed by American Red Cross certified instructors. Great for coaches, teachers, parents and youth leaders. Next Class: Sat. August 7th at 9:00a.m. Pre-Registration is required. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at lhoover@wallingfordymca.org Summer is the time when one sheds one's tensions with one's clothes, and the right kind of day is jeweled balm for the battered spirit. A few of those days and you can become drunk with the belief that all's right with the world.

Lights Up at WPAA-TV: Chris Olhmann is making it possible. On July 1st a milestone was achieved with well over 1500 volunteer hours of sweat equity logged and the much anticipated partial Certificate of Occupancy awarded to WPAA-TV for 28 So. Orchard St. There is still a ways to go. The studio and performance space are in process; however more funds are needed before volunteers can complete the 3 edit suites and a training room on the 2nd floor. As part of Serve America the United Way connects volunteers to opportunities by day, project or community. WPAA-TV posted its Building Renovation Project to the United Way web-site on Jan 4th. A dozen people responded – most were not Wallingford residents – but one responded and committed BIG TIME. Chris Olhmann logged 350 of the 1500 hours served. As the New Year began WPAA-TV needed a 6 month plan to relocate its home on 128 Center St. to the to-be renovated 1924 Barn at 28 So. Orchard. This would need to be accomplished by volunteers. The efforts of volunteer Chris's Olhmann made the difference. He will modestly say he was just a piece of the bigger story; and as true as that is, it was his decision to serve and serve with such dedication that gave other volunteers confidence that the mission could be accomplished and accomplished well. To honor Chris’s service and the service of the handful of extremely dedicated volunteers please consider registering with igive.com/wpaa to let your Internet shopping make giving to WPAA-TV seamless, or write the DPUC in support of the funding docket #10-03-02 that asks that Wallingford money gets used for Wallingford residents. But most important – remember that WPAA-TV belongs to you. Use WPAA-TV to share what you are passionate about. For More info: www.wpaa.tv

Page 26 July 2010

CELEBRATIONS

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Love's Perfect Alignment By Diana Lewis Chapter 4 Back in Missouri Frank Foster walked into his house after a long difficult cattle drive to Denver and back. All he wanted was a cup of hot coffee and a bath but he knew his housekeeper, Connie wouldn't allow anything to be done until he had eaten a good meal. And since it was almost suppertime, he knew he couldn't relax much. He went to his office. He sat heavily down on his chair with a sigh. He put his hand through his testy brown hair. He saw an envelope on his desk. He slowly picked it up. It looked Josie's handwriting. He got curious as he tore the envelope open. As he read the note, tears came to his eyes. Dear Daddy, Please don't be upset but today I found out I was adopted. I even saw a copy of the adoption papers, But anyway, I have gone with my real mother to Montana to live there for a while. Don't be upset that I am gone. I love you all and I will be in touch when I get there and get settled. I love you and Marky, Love, Josie Why would she go without telling me, Of course I wasn't here. I'm losing my daughter, Lord, I need some help here, Should go after her and bring her home? Or should I let her go. Show me what your Will for me to do. I'm going to go talk to Martin, my lead man and see what he sayd. Have him confirm to me what I should do. He walked out of the house toward bunkhouse, looking for Martin. He didn't notice but he still had the note in his hand, When he found Martin, he took over to the side so the other men wouldn't over hear, He told him about the note and what happened, He let Martin read the note, "I don't want to lose the daughter I raised," he said. :I wouldn't either if it were my daughter. I think you should go after heard." "That's my confirmation of the prayer I just prayed." "That's wonderful. What else can I do to help?" "You want to go with me?" "Sure , but we have to assign someone to take my place while we're gone," "I'll leave that up to you. You know the men better." he put his arm on his shoulder. "We leave at first light. I'll see that Connie gives us supplies for the trip. See you at supper." and he headed back toward the house. "Hello, Mr. Foster, I didn't realize you were back." said Connie coming the dinning room with plates. "Where's Mark?" he asked. "He was upstairs the last I knew." "Marky, are you up there?" Frank hollered upstairs. "Oh, Pa, you're home. He came running downstairs and hugged his father. "I missed you, especially after Josie left." "What do you know about this?" "I was here when Mr. Hammond came to see Josie. I guess he showed an adoption paper saying she was adopted and the next day they loaded two wagons and left to meet her real mother who was in Idaho heading this way. They've probably turned to head to Montana by now." "What did she take?" "All her stuff, nobody else's.. It's like she turned her back on us and I really don't like it one bit." "Don't worry, Son, we are going after her. She doesn't know this lady from Adam and I intend to bring her home." "Really, Pa, can I go?" "I don't know, Son, it's really a long ways on a horse. We're not taking wagons, although we could." Connie came in with the food. Martin came in right behind her. "Let's go wash up for supper," they headed into the kitchen and washed and came back to the table and sat down. It was Mark's turn to say grace. "Dear Lord, please take of Josie wherever she is, keep her safe, we thank You for loving us enough to die for us. Thank you for this food. Nourish it to our bodies, In Jesus' name we pray Amen." "Martin, do we have a wagon we can take with us? Mark, here want to go with us. We can switch around who drives it each day. We could carry more supplies with a wagon." "It will slow us down a little but it's a good idea. I think we have one wagon sturdy enough to use on the trail. I'll pout some extra wheels and parts so id we have problems we can fix it." "Good, have it ready to go for 7:00 AM in the morning. Mark, can you be up that early?" "Sure thing, I'll be up." he answered. He was getting excited about taking this trip west, even if it was just to find his sister.

Meriden Lions Club Water Park Now open for the Summer! City Park at Franklin and Park Streets Hours Monday through Saturday - 12:00p - 4:00pm , Sundays 1:00p - 5:00pm

Franciscan Golf Classic The 15th Annual Franciscan Golf Classic, sponsored in-part by Webster Bank, will be held on Monday, August 23, 2010, at Tunxis Plantation Golf Club, Farmington, Connecticut. Join us for a day of fine golf, delicious food and great prizes. Cost to play is $195.00. Proceeds benefit the mission of the Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care. For information, reservations or sponsorship opportunities call 203-237-8084.

Celebrating 50 Years of Great Taste! 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!

Newly Renovated Outside Seating Available

1046 Broad Street in Meriden - 203-237-6660

Page 27 July 2010

Our Lives in Demographics By Katrina S. Axelrod A while back, as my husband and I were relaxing in our respective claw-footed bathtubs, facing the sunset on a rockycoast beach, he awash in six days of The New York Times, and me, in my cerulean blue, back-opening Snuggie, I got to musing. I did nothing of the kind. Neither do I expect my car to give me thrills, chills and/or an oasis from my goings on, and from which I can, consequence-free, lock my children out of the car, so as to be completely alone with my thoughts. I can hear through glass, amazingly enough. I hate being lied to. Now, if I am correct, we are being lied to and our civilization is so much for the worse for it. It is all about setting expectations. Madison Avenue, or wherever these things are concocted these days, has really lost its collective mind. I've never having been to either Connecticut casinos, (I guess neither are in Connecticut, come to think of it, they are simply surrounded by Connecticut), as I have an aversion to people dancing feverishly and then sliding across the floor, posing for my amusement/ amazement, for a display of their super-catchy enthusiasm. Both casinos have been kind enough to show me just who populates casinos. Studly men, svelt and bouncily-athletic young women; you know, the beautiful people, who win money and then immediately go purchase diamond necklaces. No thanks. I dropped out of that race, if I was ever in it. NO mention of the Mom who left her children in the car for 2 hours, while she gambled. I did succumb to the commercial for a body wash that promised an all-over clean and skin-hydrating shower experience; they weren't too far off the mark and do I smell like grape for a few minutes until I towel off. Then my towel smells like a big, soggy grape. Not exactly a lie, just an exaggeration I can live with. I'm still waiting to be transformed into a 100 lb goddess of proportions endowed only by skilled surgeons. I can hope. I would like to share a dinner time-conversion with " The Most Interesting Man in the World." He seems like a guy with whom I could connect. We could speak about his James Bond-like encyclopedic knowledge and experiences and I could perhaps find a new patron for my youth orchestra. He seems the type. Some ads are clever- the one just mentioned, and the Intel ads showing the seemier side of computer scientist office politics, cracking wise with each other and surreptitiously changing a number in a formula for laughs and being boorish in front of poor little Jeffrey. I am sure that the nice lady computer scientist consoled Jeffrey and that he did return to the lunch room feeling more socially ept. They did, after all, all get together for that nice, four-note community hum. When confronted with a particularly inane commercial, I ask myself "Who do the marketers think ing watch this program?" I sus out the demographic that is being depicted, young/old, rich/poor, healthy/afflicted, calm/ frenziedmaniacal (which seems to be a great deal of us, judging from my TV experiences,) and then compare myself with the chosen. I don't talk to soft, cuddly bears when I do laundry. I think that is all for the good. My husband is not a three-thumbed doofus, unable to handle the simplest task, either, I am glad to say. My children do not think it is funny to spray me with a garden hose, nor to drop water balloons on the head of his sibling in our living room. Another good thing. Sad, to say, I might not smile, think about them lovingly, while considering adding to their numbers, cheerily cleaning up the damages. Nope, not me. I would be old-fashioned ticked-off and I'd make sure that little darling/perp knew it, as he cleaned up the mess. This commercial world was clearly conceived (ha-ha, see what I did there?), by a man with no child rearing experience. Other fantasy worlds extolled by commercials are just too gross for mention- as in taking my elementary/middle school-aged children to an ear-splittingly loud event in which car smashes and potential injury are the expectations, for instance. I'll pass, thank you all the same, even if it does cost me "Just Five Bucks!" The frenetic "flag man" seems to have an aversion to listening to Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" while canoodling with his girlfriend as being just too tame or lame, thereby just earning "one flag" of fun. (It is so great to have one's entertainment quotient so handily quantified, isn't it?) Wow does he have his priorities askew. When the couple goes to the amusement park, they have no reason to have any kind of conversation at all, and the thrill of the roller coaster, apparently, is a great substitute for getting to know his lady friend - ahhh, yes, the boy is off the hook for relating to a nice young woman. Rather than dazzling her with this charm, wit and repartee, he is upside down screaming! Well, the Most Interesting Man in the World has nothing to worry about, there will be no one challenging his authority anytime soon.

Collin Reilly - You can help Collin Reilly, now a nine months old, is suffering from pilomyxtoid astrocytoma - a rare type of juvenile cancer first discovered in 1999. After meny tests to find out why Collin was not gaining weight the cancer was found when a MRI was done on him. Collin is the youngest son of Chris & Jennifer Reilly of Wallingford. Collin's father Chris has searved his country in with the National Guard in Iraq and is a Volunteer Firefighter for the Town of Wallingford. Jen, Collin's Mother, works for Community Health Network in Wallingford. These are people that would do anything for those those in need, and have! I have experienced the selflesness of the Reilly's my self as a Brother Firefighter of Chris's, both inside and outside of the Fire Service. This family is always looking at how they can help others, even durring these times they still think of others before themselves. Friends & Family of the Rielly's have gotten together to assist Collin along his road to recovery. They have put together a Ziti Supper this past April which drew hundreds of area residents and has begun to raise awareness of this disease and funds to help ease the financhale strain of caring for Collin. More infromation on upcoming events can be found at: http://collinneedsyou.ne1.net and by searching "Collin Needs You" on Facebook. Donations are also being accepted at the Community Health Network in Wallingford. Community Health Network, 11 Fairfield Blvd. Wallingord, CT 06492 Attn: Meg Cavanaugh Submitted by FF Stephen Rygiel

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Carrie Purcell Energy Medicine Practitioner

Online Subscriber - Facebook Poll To be a part of our polls subscribe at www.peoplespressnews.com or follow us on Facebook. What was your favorite cartoon character when you were a kid? Andy: Scooby and shaggy definitely and yes The Beatle's Cartoons. Brenda: Tie between Bugs Bunny & Road Runner Karen: Mighty Mouse!!! Here I come to save the Dayyyyy! Deanna: jerry the mouse Steve: Popeye and the Looney tunes were the best for me Steve: Jerry from tom & jerry Jake: I always hoped that Tom would get at least one chance to swallow Jerry. Never thought it was fair. Just like Wile E. Coyote - always wanted him to get that roadrunner with one of his ACME rockets. John: Mighty Mouse Alexis: Snoopy and Bugs. Jon: Wile E. Coyote. Wayne: Yosemite Sam. "Ya better say yer prayers, ya flea-bitten varmaint, I'm a-gonna blow ya to smithereenies!" "I'm Riff Raff Sam, the riffiest riff that ever riffed a raff!" "Now, ya carrot-chewin' coyote!! Git a goin'!!" Andy M.: Deputy Dog and Ricochet Rabbit Christine: The red, hairy monster from Bugs Bunny. Can't remember his name. Craig: The League of Justice Christine F.: Penelope pitstop Karen C.: Oh I also loved the Mighty Heroes!....Strong Man, Rope Man, Cuckoo Man, Diaper Man and Tornado Man!!! Lori: Bandit from Johnny Quest of course! Barbara: ALL OF THE ARE GOOD ONES..MY FAV HONG KONG PHOOHEY AND GRAPE APE. Rosanne: ALL of the JETSONS of course: George, Judy, Rosie, Elroy, Astro... Michelle: WONDER WOMAN!!!! Steve: gossamer, my wife's favorite she has a costume plate on our red truck i had made for her w/ his pic. that says MONSTER TRUCK!!!!!! Chris: Foghorn Leghorn...the big rooster..."get away boy, ya botha me" Daffy Duck, loved when Elmer would shoot him in the face and his beak would spin around..."Duck Season, Rabbit Season" Kris: Hong Kung Phoohie! HELLO!!!! Gini: mighty mouse! Marisol: TWEETY BIRD Arnie: Underdog Richard: Woody woodpecker Lynn: Any Looney Tunes character, but especially the Tasmanian Devil (Taz !!)

Look for even more Polls in our Bonus 4 pages online at www.peoplespressnews.com

- Relax and De-stress - Relief from Chronic Pain - Improved Healing from Surgery - Personal Growth

For more information visit www.carriepurcell.com To schedule an appointment call 203.623.7386

Page 28 July 2010

YOUTH SPORTS CAMPS

6 Fairfield Boulevard 203.294.2120

Special Interest Programs 2004.310 PLAY WELL LEGO CAMP PRE - ENGINEERING AGES 5 - 6 In this fun and age appropriate environment, we will use LEGO to create, play, and learn. Build a city, town or star base with houses, buildings, pyramids, bridges, tunnels, towers and more. Build motorized cars, trains, buses and trucks; race them, crash them, repair them. Explore the many possibilities of LEGO building systems while learning useful construction techniques. When: August 9th - 13th 9:00am - 12:00pm Location: Exit 7 Instructor: PLAY WELL Camp Staff Fee: $130 2004.320 PLAY WELL ENGINEERING FUN-DAMENTALS AGES 7 - 9 Using LEGO we'll explore concepts in physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering, and architecture while playing with your favorite creations. Learn how to design and build motorized machines, catapults, demolition derby cars, truss and suspension bridges, buildings, and other constructions. Each session will include directed projects with instruction, performance oriented projects with guidance from our staff. Free building time will be available to construct that "really great project" with HUGE quantities of LEGO. These are fun, challenging, hands on and minds on camps suitable for LEGO novices to "maniacs". When: August 9th - 13th 1:00pm - 4:00pm Location: Exit 7 Instructor: PLAY WELL Camp Staff Fee: $130

BUS TRIPS LOBSTER TALES……PLYMOUTH, MA When: Saturday July 17th Bus Departs: 6:45am Bus Returns: 6:30pm Fee: $79 This morning enjoy a "hands-on" lobstering experience on an hour long cruise excursion to haul lobster traps….learn lobster history, biology and the daily life of a New England fisherman. Our cruise will take us through the protected waters of Plymouth Harbor and we will have a chance to view the Mayflower II from the water. After the tour lunch will be at the popular Weathervane Seafood Restaurant located directly on Plymouth's waterfront. Menu: choice of Classic Lobster Roll with mayo and celery, Fried Shrimp and Haddock, Broiled Salmon, or Grilled Chicken Breasts with potato and cole slaw, unlimited soda, coffee and ice cream. Free time will be available for shopping on Water St. New York Yankees vs Toronto Blue Jays When: Tuesday August 3rd 7:05pm Game Time (*Time is subject to change due to MLB scheduling*) Bus Departs: Parks and Rec. Dept. 3:00pm Bus Returns: ETA 12:00am Fee: $98 (Seats in section 431 and 432) Come join us as we voyage down to the new Yankee Stadium to see the Yankees take on AL East divisional rival Toronto Blue Jays. This is your opportunity to see the new stadium and the 2009 World Series Champions. 9161.300 WE'RE OFF TO THE RACES! SARATOGA, NY When: Saturday August 14th Bus Departs: Recreation Department at 8:30am Returns 10:00pm Fee $61 (admission and reserved grandstand seating) We are off to the races. It's race time and the excitement fills the air at the world renowned Saratoga Race Course. Come see where the Champion Man O' War lost his only race. Debuting in 1863, it is the oldest race track in America. Enjoy the best in horse racing. Lunch will be on your own at the raceway. Choose from the Turf Terrace, The porch Dining Area, The Club Terrace at the Rail Pavilion and or any of the various concession stands. Dinner stop at Grandma's Restaurant and Country Store in Albany en route home (Dinner Is On Own).

WALLINGFORD YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP AGES 9-14 This is the first year of the Wallingford Youth Football Camp. Tom Brockett and his staff of area high school coaches will teach campers positioning, technique, skills and knowledge of offensive and defensive sides on the football field. This is a great opportunity for any player looking to play NFL Flag Football or Wallingford Vikings this coming fall. When: Monday - Friday July 19th - 23rd 9:00am - 11:00pm Location: Sheehan High School Turf Field (Rain location Moran Middle School Gym) Fee: $90 Instructor: Tom Brockett, Wallingford Resident, Former 3 sport captain at Lyman Hall. In three seasons as head football coach at Ansonia High School, the team is 38-2 including three Naugatuck Valley League titles and two CIAC State Championships. 4816.320 SKYHAWKS TENNIS o FOR AGES 6-12YRS Skyhawks Tennis provides the beginning skills needed in this life long sport. Participants will learn proper techniques for grip, footwork, ground strokes, volleys, overheads and serving. Participant to coach ratio is approx. 8:1. Participants will receive a T-shirt and merit award. When: Monday - Friday July 12th - 16th 9:00am - 12:00pm Location: Doolittle Park Fee: $105 Instructor: Skyhawks Staff (a nationally recognized sports program provider) 4816.330 SKYHAWKS GOLF o FOR AGES 5-8YRS Builds the confidence of new players while teaching proper technique and etiquette. Skyhawks utilizes the SNAG Coaching System and equipment (clubs and balls) to maintain safety and encourage beginning golfers. Young golfers will experience success by using a plastic golf club with an over-sized ceramic head. In our golf programs we build confidence while teaching proper technique and etiquette. The participant-tocoach ratio is approximately 8:1. Please do not bring own clubs. Skyhawks Golf participants must bring: T-shirt/shorts/sweats/socks (i.e., appropriate clothing) Two Snacks & Water Bottle, Sunscreen. Participants will receive a T-shirt and a merit award. When: Monday - Friday August 2nd - 6th 9:00am - 12:00pm Fee: $105 Instructor: Skyhawks (a nationally recognized sports program provider) Location: Pragemann Park 4816.340 SKYHAWKS MULTI-SPORT CAMP o AGES 7-11YRS Multi-Sport programs are structured through the Skyhawks progression. These programs are designed for the all-around player interested in sports and teach fundamentals of several sports in an enriching and enjoyable atmosphere. Participants to coach ratio is approx. 12:1 Participants should bring bagged lunch and sports drink or water, sunscreen. Participants will receive a Tshirt and a merit award. When: Monday - Thursday August 16th - 20th (Friday August 14th rain make up) 9:00am - 1:00pm Location: Pragemann Park Fee: $105 Instructor: Skyhawks Staff (a nationally recognized sports program provider) 4245.300 CHALLENGER BRITISH SOCCER CAMP Join us for some great soccer fun! The mini soccer program for ages 3-5 is focused on fun soccer activities, basic technical practices and small sided games. The half day and full day program for ages 6-9 and 10-16 places the emphasis upon individual skill development, mastery of the core techniques and fundamental tactical awareness. All sessions include ball and t-shirt and are held at Pragmann Park 4245.301 Mini soccer 3-5yr 9-10:30am Fee: $83 July 19-23 4245.302 Mini soccer 3-5yr 10:40-12:10pm Fee: $83 July 19-23 4245.303 Half day 6-16yr 9am-12pm Fee: $114 July 19-23 4245.304 Half day 6-16yr 12:30pm-3:30pm Fee: $114 July 19-23 4245.305 Full day 8-16yr 9:00 - 3:30pm Fee: $165 July 19-23 Instructor: Challenger Soccer Staff 4400.300 DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH SUMMER BASEBALL CAMP o FOR AGES 7-12YRS Proper fielding, throwing, hitting, base running and pitching fundamentals will be taught by our professional staff. Participants are required to bring a bag lunch, bottled water and sunscreen. When: Monday - Thursday July 26th - July 29th 9:00am - 12:30pm (Fri., July 30th Rain Make Up) Fee: $105 Location: Pragman Park Instructor: Diamond Kings Baseball Academy 54 Dolphin Rd. Bristol, CT 4168.300 HOOP HOUSE BASKETBALL CAMP o FOR BOYS & GIRLS 7-15YRS "Play basketball, have fun" is our motto as fundamentals are taught daily by Mike Papale, Joe Gaetano and Greg Morrone. Camp features: daily contests, drills & stations, team trophies and a camp T-shirt. Campers will be divided into age and skill level groups. Camp held at the Rec Dept.'s Hoop House Gym. Each camper should bring a lunch daily. For more info stop by the office and pick up a camp brochure. Session 3 Girls Only. 4168.301 Session 1 June 28th - July 2nd 4168.302 Session 2 August 2nd - August 6th 4168.304 Session 3 August 9th - August 13th Fee: $160 per camper Staff: Mike Papale, Director Weber Basketball League and Joe Gaetano, Sheehan Boys Varsity Coach and 2010 Class M State Champions 4198.330 CONNECTICUT DEVELOPMENTAL YOUTH VOLLEYBALL CAMP This camp introduces young athletes to the very exciting game of competitive volleyball. It stresses individual instruction with an emphasis on technique and team concepts. Enrollment is limited to insure proper attention to each camper and to make the best use of the space. Lessons will focus on court movement and understanding, setting, serving, serve receive, individual and team defense, blocking and attacking. This camp is recommended for players entering high school or Middle School. Enrollment is limited to 30 players. When: August 16th - 19th Monday - Thursday 12:00pm - 2:00pm Fee: $70 Instructor: Camp Director Dave Jockle, Former Head Coach Bunnell High School Volleyball 2001, 2004, 2005 C.I.A.C. State Champions and Connecticut Post Coach of the Year 2001, 2004, 2005 Location: Rec Dept. Gym 4198.300 CONNECTICUT DEVELOPMENTAL - ADVANCED VOLLEYBALL CAMP The Advanced Volleyball Camp strengthens the necessary skills needed to be competitive High School or College bound volleyball player. It stresses individual instruction with an emphasis on technique and team concepts. Enrollment is limited to insure proper attention to each camper and to make best use of the space. Lessons will focus on court movement and understanding, setting, serving, serve receive, individual and team defense, blocking and attacking. Minimum one year of high school experience is recommended or trying out for the high school team. Limit of 30 players When: August 16th - 19th Monday - Thursday 8:30am - 11:30am Fee: $86 Instructor: Camp Director Dave Jockle, Former Head Coach Bunnell, High School Volleyball 2001, 2004, 2005 C.I.A.C. State Champions and Connecticut Post Coach of the Year 2001, 2004, 2005 Location: Rec Dept. Gym

Page 29 July 2010

CELEBRATIONS

I’d just like to say hi to all my family and friends!

CELEBRATIONS

Monarch Madness at Riverbound Farm Bird Sanctuary The Quinnipiac Valley Audubon Society, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, will sponsor a program ‘Monarch Madness’: A Children’s Program at Riverbound Farm Sanctuary, 1881 Cheshire St in Cheshire on Sunday July 18th 12:00-2:00 pm. Rain Date Sunday July 25th. Join us on a monarch caterpillar hunt. Plant butterfly attracting plants, tag butterflies and track migrating monarchs..Corrie Folsom-O’Keefe, field biologist and science educator, will conduct a series of summer programs at Riverbound. To register or for more information call Corrrie at 203-630-9640. Other Summer Programs coming up: Friday Aug 13th Nature at Night 810:30 pm - Sunday Sept 19th Field Biology Day. 8:30-11 Photo by Liz Landow of Monarch on white butterfly bush

Now is the time to book Ruth for all of your 2010 Events.

Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet The garden saga continues. A lot has happened since I wrote about the garden for the June issue. Everything was planted by the end of May, or so I thought, but not quite. I was in search of a biblical plant, hyssop, for my friend Kathy, and went to several nurseries, but could not find it. Someone suggested that I go to Northford and check out the nursery there, so I did. They didn't have it either, but it is one huge nursery, so I took a look around. I found something I have never seen before, a yellow cherry tomato. I am not talking about pear tomatoes. I tried those one year and wasn't too excited about them. These are cherry tomatoes and have the same kind of leaves as the red, so I bought one. I was able to find one spot to put it in and planted that on June 7th. We had a lot of rain, and for a while nothing seemed to be progressing very much, especially my marigolds, which actually seemed to get smaller after I planted them, and I think they did. They looked so pitiful, but started to perk up after a few weeks. They are still kind of small compared to everything else, but I know they will eventually get bigger. Patience. A few weeks ago on a Monday I saw a fellow dumping coffee grounds, lettuce, and other stuff into one of our compost areas near the parking lot. I have never used coffee grounds before, but he said they are good for the garden, and CJ told me that he had heard that they are excellent at deterring slugs. So I got a plastic bag and loaded it with coffee grounds and spread them around all of my plants. I have not seen one slug this year. Hmmmm. Might be something to it. On June 21st when I was hoeing some weeds around my tomatoes, I spotted something that looked like it was not a weed. "What's this?" I picked it up, probably a plant that was an inch and a half tall, and smelled it. "It's a tomato!" It had somehow germinated under the weed block and the hoe uprooted it without destroying it, which was kind of a miracle. I quickly dug a hole near the last tomato on that row, filled it with water, and basically buried the plant. I thought, "If it's still alive in an hour, it might make it." Somewhat to my surprise when I checked it later, it was still alive. A few days later I put a bamboo post in the ground near it, and it is still alive right now, June 27th. My friend Kathy insists it will wind up being the strongest tomato plant in my garden. It is very, very tiny at this point, but it is growing. I have tried to make tomatoes come back for the next year by burying them, but I have never succeeded. This was just kind of a strange coincidence, me weeding with the hoe and unearthing a tomato from under the weed block on the very edge of it and yet not killing it in the process. You kind of get so you recognize certain plants in their baby stage after a while. On June 21st, to my surprise, someone I know pulled up in the parking lot with a pickup truck filled with grass clippings and wondered if the Community Garden could use them. I said, "Sure." He told me he never uses fertilizer or pesticides, so it is not contaminated in any way. So he raked out the whole truckload of clippings into the area where the hay is. I thanked him, and after he left, I decided, "You know, what the heck, let me try this." So I loaded up the wheelbarrow several times, took the clippings to my garden and basically put them down on every inch of soil, pretty much. Put it around all the marigolds, all the tomatoes, all the sunflowers, the cucumbers, the basil, and the only spots I did not get to were around the perennials. There are still a few more clippings near the hay, so that will be my next project. You see, I am really determined to cut down on the weeding chore this year. It was very hot at the garden this evening, June 27th, like 95 degrees. All I did was water and pull some weeds. I have more volunteers of various kinds coming up, way more than I have had in the past. I have at least four of what might be some type of squash or cucumber in several spots. They are in precarious areas where someone could easily crush them, but we'll see what happens. The three volunteer sunflowers are growing like mad. One is already in serious competition with a basil plant, and the other two are very close to tomatoes at the front of the garden. Everything is suddenly getting much taller. I picked my first two yellow cherry tomatoes today and gave one to the gal who has a garden next to me with her husband. Very tasty. She gave me a few strawberries, but tonight is their last picking. They got a ton of them compared to my very few. Strawberries were early this year, and they are pretty much all done. I keep meaning to take my camera and always forget it, but things are really taking off now, except for my still rather small marigolds. But they will fill out pretty soon, I am sure, and will look gorgeous in two rows this year. CJ gave me three Cherokee Purple tomato plants tonight, which I took home, but will plant either Monday or Wednesday. I think I'll make a few holes in the weed block along a border in one spot and put them there. (I have 20 tomato plants already, but can there ever be too many?) I still have two basil plants in my sun room I have yet to decide what to do with. My perennials are going to be beautiful as they are filling out very quickly. The autumn rubeckia already has orange flowers on it. The delphinia has a couple of bluish flowers on it and is coming along. I'm glad I put a cage around the typical rubeckia, black-eyed susans, because they are already getting tall. There are several volunteers of something, which I think are perennials, so I am leaving them alone until I know for sure if they are plants or weeds. They are in the area where the other perennials are. I helped the new gardener next to me tonight who thought she was growing carrots, and I had to inform her that they were weeds. But she has a bunch of volunteer tomatoes growing right in that very area. She wasn't sure if they were tomatoes, so I verified that they indeed were. I told her that last year I threw some rotten tomatoes into that garden since it had been abandoned and was all weeds, and probably that's where the tomatoes came from. They don't look like cherries, so they are probably Jet Star or Big Boys. She was pretty happy to discover them though. I have three volunteer cleomes coming up next to tomato plants, and one unidentifiable flower growing near the basil. It has buds on it, so I know it's some kind of flower, but I don't know what it is yet. The garlic is ready to be harvested, and I should do that soon. One gardener came by tonight, Ray, who had observed me about six weeks ago swinging my hoe into the sea of weeds, a seemingly impossible task to complete. He said something like, "Wow, what a difference. Your garden looks great!" It does look pretty good with hay and grass clippings covering almost every inch of soil and with plants flourishing. It looks neat and orderly. I like a neat garden. I hope everyone had a great 4th of July and enjoyed the fireworks, especially in Wallingford due to the generosity of many citizens and the hard work by Jason Zandri and Craig Fishbein. It takes a village to raise a child, or maybe have fireworks. Job well done! Barbara Sherburne - barndt49@yahoo.com

WALLINGFORD YMCA BACKYARD SWIM LESSONS! Have the Wallingford YMCA Aquatics Staff come to you! If you or your neighbor has a pool ; we will conduct swim lessons for you at your convenience. The YMCA will send a swim instructor to your home to teach your children and/or your neighbor's children. Your package will include four classes that are 45 minutes long. Classes can be scheduled once or twice a week. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

Page 30 July 2010

The Maryheart Crusaders Bookstore Catholic Books * Religious Items Gifts * Church Goods 531 West Main Street in Meriden 203-238-9735 Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-2

FOR SALE BY OWNER Large 1 Bedroom Condo offering heated garage, appliances and washer & dryer. Also included are pool, tennis courts all in a great, quiet location. Heat and Hot Water included. Section 8 welcome! $1,100 per month

Call 203-600-4431

Find A Friend At The Wallingford Animal Shelter!

Sammy - Super Sweet Male Dachshund

Bingo - Happy Male Shepherd Mix that Loves to play.

PomPom .. Sweet & Loving Female Pomeranian

Kittens male and female seeking forever homes.

Summer Fun at the Wallingford Family YMCA With our full daily schedules, sometimes the last thing we think of is taking care of ourselves - spirit, mind and body. The Wallingford Family YMCA located at 81 South Elm Street can help! The Y offers an extensive lineup of activities for people of all ages - with the goal of getting you involved and healthy. The YMCA has a 65-year history of offering health and wellness activities. We try to take the whole person into consideration when we provide programming for families. The Wallingford Family YMCA is THE place kids can go for fun this summer. Camp Ulbrich is an American Camp Association accredited and State of Connecticut licensed Day Camp that operates at the YMCA as well as Doolittle Park, Bertini Park and Mt. Ridge. Young people can enjoy specialty camps that cater to many active interests - outdoor adventures, sports, arts and crafts, field trips and overnight excursions. One thing is for sure - all of our camps are creative and fun. Also, due to popular demand Camp Ulbrich is now offering transportation from all Wallingford Elementary Schools. "Safety is our main concern, and focusing on making sure the children are having fun in a safe environment," Eric Skinner, Camp Director explained. "Our counselors are specially trained and understand the role they play in the lives of children for the summer - we all want to have fun." Children can also participate in karate, rock climbing, tennis, volleyball - and so much more. Whether you're eight months or 80 years old, there are YMCA programs just for you! The YMCA also offers a list of exciting programs that are literally designed with everyone in mind. This includes the specialized senior fitness program for active older adults, a Learn to Swim program, many new teen programs such as the Saturday Night Club for 11-to 15-year olds, Movie Madness nights at the Rotary/YMCA Teen Center, private tutoring, middle school overnights, 5th grade dances, and Flick and Float at the pool. There's also a Road Race and a Tennis Tournament - as well as many other activities for you to check out. Fulfilling its mission, the Wallingford Family YMCA received a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to help fight childhood obesity through public policy and environmental change. A team of community leaders has been meeting since the fall of 2009 developing a community action plan. As a response to this initiative the Y also celebrated graduations of its pilot program, Fit to Go. Fit to Go is a middle school program focused on self esteem, exercise, nutrition and more. The YMCA has teamed up with the VNA, Youth and Social Services Department, Wallingford Public School System and United Way to deliver this program. Look for our fall program launch in October at both Wallingford Middle Schools! The YMCA keeps programs fun and exciting - and the community is responding, even in a slower economy. Membership numbers are ahead of last year, youth sports classes are in-demand, youth soccer, baseball, racquetball, tball, dance classes and parent-tot gymnastics are all well attended by the Greater Wallingford community. There's also a strong need for the YMCA's childcare programs at every elementary school in Wallingford as well as Choate Rosemary Hall and Gaylord Hospital, with more than 420 children enrolled. We invite you to come out of the hot sun and into our air conditioned 54,000 square foot facility to find two pools, a state of the art Health and Wellness Center, two racquetball courts, a newly renovated gymnasium, aerobics studio, group cycling room and free on-site child care while members are working out. And, staying on the cutting-edge of exercise technology, in just over a year, the YMCA has purchased over $100,000 in new fitness equipment. "We pride ourselves on offering a great place for families to gather at the Y and to spend quality time together. We encourage families to incorporate play into their busy lives," says YMCA Executive Director Sean Doherty. As a leader in helping the community through its many programs and services that are available to everyone regardless of ability to pay, the YMCA relies on annual fundraising through its Strong Kids Campaign. This year's goal is to raise $85,000 for the community, so that everyone who walks in, regardless of their ability to pay, can participate in our programs. Whether you're signed up for a special Zumba class, swimming lessons or summer camp, the Wallingford YMCA will help you build your fitness level and take time to focus on your own spirit, mind and body while socializing and having fun. The YMCA is led by a volunteer board of talented and passionate community leaders guiding over 175 caring and dedicated staff. Visit our new Web site to learn about Wallingford YMCA programs and more, at www.WallingfordYMCA.org and please join us on Facebook and Twitter for up to date exciting news about YOUR YMCA! Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

The 24th Great CT Traditional Jazz Festival The Festival has moved just up the road to Meriden. Top traditional jazz bands playing New Orleans style jazz, blues, hot jazz, swing, and stride piano, among other interpretations of the early 1900's through 1940's music, will be coming in from all over the United States to play at the 24th annual Great CT Traditional Jazz Festival. This year it will be held at the Sheraton Four Points in Meriden over the weekend of July 30, 31, and Aug. 1. There will be music played simultaneously in 4 venues, 2 air conditioned indoors and 2 outdoors in tents. A variety of food and drinks will be available at each venue. It's a fun weekend for the whole family. There will be dance lessons and dancing in all venues. For more information see http://www.greatctjazz.org. The music will start on Friday at 4pm and continue till 11:30pm. Saturday the first session starts at 11am until 5pm and a second session starts at 6pm to 12:30pm. Sunday will begin with a Gospel Service at 9am. The music will start at 11am and end with the spectacular Finale starting at 4pm. New to the Festival this year will be an "After Glow" party that will include dinner and dancing with music by Dan Levinson's Swing Wing orchestra with Molly Ryan at the Four Points Grand Ballroom. The Great Connecticut Traditional Jazz Festival brings 14 bands together for three days of fun, music and dancing. The favorites coming back include Louis Ford and his New Orleans Flairs direct from New Orleans, LA, The Blue Street Jazz Band from Fresno, CA, and Cornet Chop Suey from St. Louis, MO. The local favorites will also be there including The Galvanized Jazz Band, Jeff Barnhard and The Heartbeat Jazz Band as well as the Festival's Youth Band, The Sugarfoot Jazz Band. This year the Festival is excited and proud to announce that they have booked Stephanie Trick, one of America's premier young stride pianists, who has played with Jeff Barnhard and Louis Mazetier of France. Stephanie recreates the music of stride masters James P. Johnson, Fats Waller, Willie "The Lion" Smith, Art Tatum, and Jelly Roll Morton. Tickets AT THE GATE: $95/weekend, $45/session, $60 all day Sat., Children $6. EARLY discounts BEFORE July 24: $90/weekend, $40/session, $50 all day Sat. Special pricing for groups of 20 or more. Call 1-800-HOT-EVENt (1-800-468-3836). Free Parking and shuttle. New this year: AFTER GLOW PARTY - $30 dinner and dancing with Dan Levinson's "Swing Thing". The Festival is a non profit organization run by volunteers and sponsors the Horns for Kids program, which take donated instruments, refurbishes them and awards them to schools in CT (www.hornsforkids.org), the Festival's Youth Jazz Camp and the Sugarfoot Jazz Band, the Festival's Youth Band. For more information about the festival including video clips from last year's festival, see www.greatctjazz.org or check us out on Facebook.

Golf Tournament Bear - Male Staffordshire Terrier Mix, playful and energetic.

Petie. Sweet and totally lovable diabetic male poodle.

For more information on any of these wonderful animals or others we have, please contact the Wallingford Animal Shelter. 203 294-2180.

The 12th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 11th at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford beginning with registration and a full American breakfast set for 7:30 A.M. A scramble shotgun start will be at 8:30 A.M. All proceeds will benefit the club's special education scholarship fund. The $125.00 fee includes 18 holes w/cart, tee package, cash awards, pro shop gift certificates, $1500 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. Make checks payable to M/W Civitan Club with entry form no later than August 1st and mail to 174 Highland Ave. Wallingford, Ct. 06492. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685. The submission deadline for our August issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is July 30th. Email your stories, photos, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Remember to visit www.peoplespressnews.com to read every issue of The People’s Press from 2000 to the present.

Page 31 July 2010

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. Visit www.peoplespressnews.com!

CELEBRATIONS

Brian David Ash It's been twenty-four years that The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund has been running its annual fundraiser for fire safety in Brian Ash's memory. We will be doing it again this year on September 10th, 11th, and 12th at Stop and Shop on East Main Street in Meriden. So what's it all about? It starts with a novel idea, "Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives". We have heard this since we were kids, but people don't believe it. There are actually homes that don't have them and many others that have ones that won't work. If you're awake, you'll smell smoke, but not when you're sleeping. When you sleep, you lose your sense of smell first, and it's the last sense to come back when you awakened. It is recommended that you change the battery in a smoke detector once a year. It is also suggested that you change the smoke detector every ten years. It is also advisable to test the smoke detector regularly. NEVER move a smoke detector battery to another device. Your life is worth more than any battery. Fire drills are common in school, but when did you have one at home? More than likely, you never did. What is your plan of escape? What would you do in a fire? These are the facts that The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund is trying to teach. The funds we raise are used to provide educational materials that are distributed by the fire department. These include booklets, videos, handouts, and specialty items that carry our life saving message, "Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives". We also provide the Meriden children with their fire hats during fire prevention week and the smoke detector batteries the fire department hands out to students and families. Our hot dog sale at Stop and Shop is our primary fundraiser and all proceeds go to the fund. Please come by and visit us, and don't forget your hot dog, soda and chips.

A Commitment to Meriden

Congratulations Brianna! I am so proud of you! Love, Gram

CELEBRATIONS

Mike Rohde - Mayor of Meriden This is a new series of articles so that you can get to know public servants in Meriden and how they can help you. Born in Dayton Ohio, Wright Air Force Base, Dad was an Air Corps LT. Moved to Rochester NY at age 2, grew up there and went to schools in area graduating from St. John Fisher College. Met my wife Nancy while in college. I have two younger brothers and one younger sister. My father passed away in May of this year at age 89 and my mother died 8 years ago. I moved to CT in 1967 and moved to Meriden in 1975 having started to work at the Curtis Home Children's Program in Meriden in 1972. I went to Antioch Graduate School for my Masters Degree in Human Services Administration and held executive positions in Children and Family Servies organizations for over 30 years. Currently, I serve as Mayor of Meriden, having served on the city council since 1989. I also do some part time consulting in marketing and management. I enjoy community service, cultural events, golf, fishing, walking and hiking, and visiting with our two grandchildren. Married to wife Nancy for 41 years. I especially enjoy my job as Mayor to be able to work with others bringing positive leadership, vision, and enthusiasm for a better Meriden. - Mayor Mike You can reach Mayor Rhode at 203.630.4125 or go to http://www.cityofmeriden.org/default.asp to email him In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer. ~Albert Camus

Jeannie Lynn - 2010 Platt High School Graduate! Great Job! Love, Mom, Dad, Mark and Booey

Page 32 July 2010

Connecticut Outdoors Written By: Paul Narducci Reynolds Garage and Marine celebrating over 150 years of doing business and taking care of their customers. It all started in the year 1859 and has continued to present day. With an extraordinary history of survival and ever changing with the times, this is truly an American story. The Reynolds family has forever left its mark in the Connecticut area. They are known for customer satisfaction and selling products they believe in. Through a lot of hard work and changing to meet their customers needs Reynolds Garage and Marine has become a mainstay in the Connecticut area. They are located in Lyme Connecticut on the beautiful Connecticut River. While reading about their history you could only imagine how proud Ephraim Otis Reynolds must be. From the early days of building Tom Reynolds carriages to today of becoming a top Subaru and boat dealership. The Reynolds family must feel the enormous pressure of keeping the family legacy alive and strong. I would imagine it is this that has kept them in business for so long. When I first met Tom Reynolds it was while I was in his store buying my first Skeeter Bass Boat. I was so happy with this place it brought me back years later to buy a bigger boat. I have been very happy with them both times and a Skeeter Bass Boat is top of the line. Tom is 41 years of age and is married with three daughters. He started selling bass boats in 1995 and has made this part of the company a huge success. When Tom first approached his father Gary about selling boats their had to be some skepticism. In keeping with the Reynolds heritage his father embraced the idea and had faith in his son's determination. Over the past 15 years Tom has created one of the largest and fastest growing boat dealerships in New England. He has received numerous awards from Skeeter and Yamaha. The dealerships employ about 24 people. On a typical year Tom stated they sell around 150 new and used boats. In running a business the biggest hurdle we face is keeping quality help. Our costumers expect to be treated fairly and with respect. It is this that has kept our family in business for over 150 years. We have created something special with all our customers and have made them part of our extended family. While interviewing Tom about this article it was very easy to drift off and discuss fishing. You see Tom is also a wonderful fisherman and I found an opportunity to pick his brain. Some of this I am going to share with you and some I will keep to myself. Tom enjoys fishing top water baits and of course loves the Connecticut River. Although we did discuss some secret spots on the river I feel obligated to tell you nothing. When I asked him if he could only use one lure what would it be, I was totally surprised. You see he answered a crank bait. A lot of tournament fisherman shy away from crank baits and have little confidence in them. Tom is involved in the Connecticut Bass Federation and club Team Skeeter. He fishes around 15 tournaments a year. He has several tournaments wins and has made the Nationals not once but twice. This is an accomplishment some of the best anglers in Connecticut will never make a reality. To find out more about clubs, tournaments and the bass federation log onto www.ctbass.com Tom has created a top of the line boat dealership and has become a respected fisherman through out the state. While talking to him in person or on the phone you can tell he truly loves the sport and the business he has helped create. The Reynolds family celebrated 150 years last year with a customer appreciation team tournament on the Connecticut River. This was such a huge success they decided to make this a yearly tournament. June 12, 2010 was their second tournament and again this was a wonderful experience for all who attended. Tom and I will be fishing together in July as part of a show ,we will be showcasing the Connecticut river. I look forward to this day. I have a Skeeter TZX 190 with a Yamaha 150 which is their best selling boat but I may have to convince Tom to bring Skeeters new FX line of boats. This is a 20 or 21 foot boat with Yamaha's new 250 horsepower four stroke. I would highly recommend buying a boat from Tom or having work done on the one you already own. They are a wonderful group of people and do everything possible to take care of your needs. If you would like more information about the Reynolds family and business log onto www.reynolds1859.com . They sell both salt and fresh water boats. As always the team of Connecticut Outdoors wishes you the best of luck and good fishing!!!!

CELEBRATIONS

Happy 13th Birthday Bobby – you’re officially a teenager! You make us very proud – Love Always, Mom, Dad and Alysa

CELEBRATIONS

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Happy 9th Birthday to Rebekah Dahnna Vincent July 19th! Love, Daddy Mommy and Samantha

CELEBRATIONS

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Ethan - I’m so glad you loved the fireworks! Love, Mommy

Page 33 July 2010

MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER News and Events The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens' Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver's license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community CafĂŠ. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center! On behalf of everyone who enjoyed this year's 40th annual Special Day for Special People at Hubbard Park on June 12 I would like to thank all of the financial sponsors of the event including the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #45, Beecher & Bennett Inc, City Mission Trustees, Civitan Club of Meriden & Wallingford, First Congregational Church Women's Fellowship, John J. Ferry and Sons Inc, Hunters Ambulance, Jonal Laboratories, Mary Ellen Kenny, L. Suzio Concrete Co., Meriden Chapter 2954 AARP, Meriden City Council, Meriden Lions Club, Paul's Market and Deli, Sans Souci Restaurant, Diane Sequist, Shop Rite Supermarket #300 and the Suzio Insurance Center. I would also like to recognize all of the volunteers that day including the Meriden Antique Veterans, Lincoln Middle School students, Advisory Board on Aging members Sister Georgeann Vumbaco, Peter Burch, Donna Jones and Elizabeth Wieloch, Deputy Mayor Matt Dominello, Councilwoman Hilda Santiago, Ralph Bonfiglio, Sharon Burch, Rickey Mase, Esther Michalowski, Dan Wodatch, the Suzio family, Dan Barillaro, Chris Bourdon, Dave Sharron and Ellen Dubuc. Also, we appreciate the support of Jane Earnest and all of the Parks and Recreation Department staff who smoothly handled all of the details for the day. For some pictures of the picnic go to www.cityofmeriden.org scroll down and click on senior services. Save the date for next year and be sure not to miss the 41st annual Special Day for Special People on Saturday, June 11, 2011! An AARP Driver Safety Class will be held at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 21 and Friday, July 23 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the mezzanine. There are still several openings and interested people are asked to sign-up in the front office or by calling (203) 237-0066. The cost of the class is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members and completion of the two day refresher training course entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. Senior Center staff members are continuing to take applications for the Rent Relief Program ("Circuit Breaker") sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2009 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. If you were a renter age 65 or over during 2009, or on Social Security Disability, you may be eligible to receive a benefit. Application hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Meriden Record-Journal editorial cartoonist Justin Piccirillo will present a "Cartooning Demonstration" on Wednesday, July 28 at 10:30 am in the first floor meeting room. He will show his drawing techniques and caricature skills and talk about where he gets his ideas for the cartoons you see in the Record-Journal. All artists and interested center members are encouraged to attend; Justin may draw your picture! Refreshments will be served. For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby. John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director

Annual Bicycle Rodeo Scheduled by the Wallingford Police Department The annual Bicycle Rodeo sponsored by the Town of Wallingford Department of Police Services will be held during the months of July and August 2010. Young bicyclists are encouraged to participate to learn about bicycle safety. The bicycle safety course is designed to emphasize safety procedures rather than the physical agility of the participant. It is not necessary to be a playground program participant to enter the rodeo. All children in Wallingford are invited. Participants will be separated by age and only children who are able to ride two-wheeled bicycles independently will be permitted to enter. Wallingford Police Department personnel will help children check their bicycles for meeting all safety standards. The rodeo has been designed to be a fun and educational competition with prizes and surprises. Helmets are mandatory. The Bicycle Rodeo schedule is as follows: Friday, July 16 - 10:00 a.m. - Moses Y. Beach School Monday, July 19 - 10:00 a.m. - Pond Hill School Wednesday, July 28 - 10:00 a.m. - Parker Farms School Friday, August 6 - 10:00 a.m. - Yalesville School Winners at each location will be invited to the Town-wide Bicycle Rodeo to be held on Saturday, August 14, 2010, at Central Fire Headquarters. For more information regarding this event, please contact Assistant Youth Officer Gary Redman at 203-294-2827.

VACATION TID BITS By Sil Patterson How fast you forget what once you promised yourself you would always remember. That's why we actually need vacations. We have to escape from the rituals of work and care giving. Then you can feel the stimulation from oceans, from mountains, from a complete change in your environment and come back refreshed and more purposeful. Mary often remarked how lovely it would be if she had a sister. Her five brothers did not share her love of Barbie dolls; their presence often seemed chaotic. At her 50th birthday party these once disruptive males agreed on giving Mary a weekend away with one other person to an inn in Eastham, Mass plus dinner at the Whitman House in Truro, Mass. She considered asking a friend but ended up inviting dear old Mom (that's me)! We both were grateful. Familiar but never quite the same, "The Inn at The Oaks" opened two days of exploring the cape and enjoying the ocean. Mary's birth date was early March, her astrological sign was the fish and she was happiest at the ocean. Upon arrival in the sunrise room at the inn, we dropped our suitcases and quickly grabbed beach gear. At home I would have chosen the cookies and tea offered by our hostess and probably a quick nap, but at home there was no ocean. Dressed warmly in sweaters and hooded sweatshirts and wool caps the urge to nap vanished as we strolled along Coast Guard Beach. We let the undertow pull away our weariness. The blackness of the water crested over in huge white billows and the sounds of the waves drowned out every ache and pain in our bodies. We had forgotten the true loving peace of water. Mary skipped along the water's edge, laughing over her soaked sneakers and sox. I could remember her as a child of five collecting all sorts of sea creatures, and now at 50 years of age she again gathered up rocks and searched for pink shells. She turned to me as I concentrated on the difference between five and fifty, "Would you fill my hood?" she asked. I was delighted to weigh her hood down with plunder. We crammed the joys of Cape Cod into two and 1/2 days from visiting Provincetown and all the "arts" facilities, having a windy boat ride watching dolphins and whales (there were 12 humpbacks, 3 fin backs, 1 white fin and several dolphins). During most of our stay we took advantage of the proximity of the inn to the Salt Pond Visitor Station, Nauset and Coast Guard Beach and our favorite light house at Nauset Beach. Pam and Don seemed to take pleasure in serving all of the people at the inn bountiful and varied breakfasts. The time went by quickly but the benefit was great. Mary had included me in her joyous adventure and our lives were truly enriched. But what's important is the necessity to appreciate God's gifts at least one time a year.

Childhood Memories of Summer By Marisol Estrada-Soto Summer as a child was great. I remember riding my bike, catching caterpillars and playing with Mexican jumping beans. I lived on Liberty Street and road my bike all over the library parking lot and up and down Twiss Street. The breeze from riding down Twiss Street was the best on a hot summer day. I also caught caterpillars with my friends and kept them in a glass jar with holes on the lid and we would then feed them leaves. After a few days we let them go so they could turn into butterflies. The Mexican jumping beans were fun too. We thought watching these small brown looking things "jump" around was very funny. We had to remember to put them back in a cool place so they would not die. And there was always plenty of ice cream and ice pops to keep us cool. Ah, the memories. A life without love is like a year without summer. ~Swedish Proverb

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Page 34 July 2010

CELEBRATIONS

Happy Birthday - Okay, wait till they hear my wish this year !!! Emmalyn Lugli - Age 2 years old

CELEBRATIONS

Welcome Atticus Jack Golitko 6-10-2010 He joins his cousins Emerson & Cally to the family.Bob & Carole Golitko (Gardeners market Cooks) are the grandparents,Parents Sarah & Jarad Golitko Jarad formally from Wallingford Sarah from Cortland NY.They reside in VT.

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

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Maggie's Corner A Mastermind in Creativity in Film Entertainment Took One Small Step by Matthew Quinn Martin, Who Brings One Giant Leap for Human Kind! Meet Actor, Writer, Producer and Director: Matthew Quinn Martin By: Maggie Griffin Matthew Quinn Martin is an actor, writer, director and producer who set up a platform of his own. Through his own talent, he discovered creative energies in writing of which changed his focus from writing screen plays to prose fiction. The irony of it all, he primarily makes a living as an actor, that Matthew calls "his day job". Matthew, a character that genetically comes natural to him, delivers the most valued entertainment to those who see him, know him and follow him. I will admit, knowing Matthew is more than a privilege, it's more relatively speaking. Matthew told me once, a phrase he heard from an Uncle that humored him that he never forgot. "If you are going to move to England, you need to learn the language first". Traditional values at its best, Matthew has talents beyond his own control. He is a role model to many, a speaker to all, but most important, Matthew holds his family traditions close to heart. Rumor has it that he enjoys making his own wine. Genetically speaking, that came natural to him as his great-grandfather made his own wine too. Does Matthew come from a family of virtue and values, the answer is yes. There is a quality in Matthew that is familiar to me. Somehow I have it pinned, but I'll announce that if I move to England and hopefully learn the language. Matthew began acting while he was in college. Following, acted professional on stage, doing mostly theatre productions of classic works; especially Shakespeare. Today, being in the film industry, he simplified his valued roles as an actor, writer, director and producer. "I think of myself primarily as a storyteller. That job manifests itself in different ways through each of those positions. As a writer, most often you are the prime architect of story (whether or not that story is "original"), and if it's prose fiction then the job is pretty much done (all apologies to the hard-working editors out there). If it's a film, then it needs to get past that stage and then that's where the other jobs come in. As a producer, you are concerned with the nuts and bolt of making sure that story makes it out of the planning stage; sadly very few do. The director gets far too much credit as far as I'm concerned (especially on a film they didn't write) it's an exhausting job to be sure, and a very necessary one, but it can be a link very far down the chain. I just wrapped production on a film that I directed but didn't write ("Celebrities in Disgrace"), and I still feel odd taking credit as "my" film...it's really the writer's film as I see it (but then again, as a writer I've been burned pretty badly by a couple of credit-greedy jerks so I have an unabashed pro-writer stance). When you're acting (especially on stage), you're the last link in the chain that connects story to audience and are afforded the opportunity to communicate that story to them directly." Matthew Quinn Martin Emphasizes. Discussing Matthew's favorite movies and TV shows as an actor he famed appearances on through the roles he played, refers back to the beginning for him, leading him to the present. Clearly, Matthew will answer direct questions with honest answers as Matthew stated, "The big credit is as a recurring co-star on Fringe (in the first season). When I got that I'd pretty much quit "acting" seriously and resigned myself to doing background work as a survival job (because it's fun and usually affords me plenty of time to get writing done on set; oh and they usually feed you). It felt like getting elected class president a decade after you graduated. Other than that, I suppose my favorite stage roles were as Hamlet and then as Jimmy Porter in Look Back in Anger. And as far as background goes; the Law & Order franchise has always been very kind to me, especially Criminal Intent." Matthew gained excellent reviews for his screen play called "A Very Good Year", one of my favorites as well, leading me to ask him where he got his inspiration when writing A Very Good Year. "As far as writing - anything goes, you draw from many sources. For that one the initial spark came when I was working downtown and found out that this brokendown old guy who'd hang out there used to be a mafia button-man back in the '50s. From there I shifted the location to Fair Haven, Connecticut (where I grew up) and incorporated some of the more colorful aspects of members of my own family (none of which were involved in organized crime, but who's personalities had that charismatic zing that audiences like)." We know Matthew Quinn Martin is the writer of the movie Sling Shot, give me a positive statement quote about your accomplishment in the creation of Sling Shot. On a positive note, Matthew stated "Working on that taught me more about writing, the industry, the "place" of a writer in film making, and what comes after then any film school ever could. And even though I'm a bit embarrassed by it now, it put me in a very select club. Not many writers can say they've had a feature film produced by someone other than their relatives or credit-card company. But I didn't write that bit about them eating their own dog, I didn't even know about it till the premier". Let's introduce The Fringe, when will the series appear on TV and what Matthew's character as a co-star for this upcoming series. "Ahh… Fringe. Well they moved to Canada (New York burned through its tax-incentive money too early and lost a couple of productions as a result; there's the nuts and bolts part for you). So I was only in the first season as an FBI agent who's never named directly, although Peter (Joshua Jackson) does jokingly refer to me as "Mr. Protocol." It's on FOX. In the Acting and Film Industry along with being a screen writer, Matthew wants people to know "Making a life in the entertainment business can be so totally draining at times that you're tempted to answer "nothing." But that's not true either. The media focuses on "stars" and rightly so, they are stars for a reason, but there are literally thousands of working and middle-class actors/writers/etc out there and getting to be a part of that is a reward...not a terribly well paying one mind you, but a reward. Beyond that, however, sometimes you get to see that connection, be it through an audience reaction, or a review, or a well-placed piece of fiction...and that's why we're all in it really." You can read even more about Matthew and his biography that is also on his web site along with more enjoyable links to view, everything you can find and read at: www.MatthewQuinnMartin.com

Page 35 July 2010

I walk without flinching through the burning cathedral of the summer. My bank of wild grass is majestic and full of music. It is a fire that solitude presses against my lips. ~Violette Leduc, Mad in Pursuit

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Page 36 July 2010

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Page 37 July 2010

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Wallingford Public Parks & Schools to enjoy this Summer

Where do you want to go this summer? Margie I would love to go to Maine to see my special fried Crissy and her family. Justine: Myrtle Beach. The beach can't be better, and my best friend lives there. Richard: Your house. Toni: anywhere but work...hahaha Jon: Seattle and back to Montana Virginia: Cape Cod Steve: I'll second the Cape! Andrew: I'll third the Cape. Lisa: Montana and Wyoming Barbara: I've never been to Seattle, Myrtle Beach, Montana, Wyoming or the Cape. I would love to revisit Five Islands, Maine someday. Andrea: I want to go to the lottery commission and collect a billion dollar jackpot!!!! Sandra: Nantucket, Of Course! Kim: Newport, RI!!!!! When you were a kid...what did you want to do for a job when you grew up? Andy: Don't laugh but I wanted to be a minister when I was young - pre High School. Sussane: I wanted to play piano. Lynne: I wanted to be a nurse or a cop. Go figure..... Jennifer: Train the dolphins at mystic Virginia: I wanted to be a singer Andrew: Firefighter...nothing else ever.... Barbara: PRESIDENT OR PUBLIC SPEAKER SO I COULD FIGHT FOR PEOPLES RIGHTS Lynn: Always had many animals around growing up, so I wanted to be a veterinarian Linda: A nurse... Dawn: I wanted to be a forensic pathologist...I loved Quincy M.D. LOL and only I can laugh or there will be blood shed..JK Lisa: teacher Christine: a nun - and I'm not even Catholic... Christie: Truck driver convoy LOL John: I wanted to be a stand-up comic. Bill Cosby was my idol. Kate: I wanted to be a truck driver and or a maid... now I hate driving and cleaning...haha Brian: Astronaut, still working on that one.. Linda: Being a vet but once I found out I would have to deal with blood, that was out. So next was an actress and/or lead singer/drummer of an all girl rock band. Andy M.: Pimp... I watched alot of Starsky and Hutch and thought they were just big dudes that hung out with hot chicks and wore cool hats... Kris: Raise Percherons, or train the TB's at Belmont Steve: A lifeguard or firefighter George: .....I always wanted to be a country music singing sensation. Charlotte: Flight Attendant - but in those days they were called Stewardesses... Gini: I wanted to be a Dallas Cowboy cheerleader. Chris: Ice Cream Man! Hitting the Open Road with a truck full of goodies and putting smiles on everyone faces. Donnie: I wanted to be a firefighter Sue: a boxer :) Jackie: Medical Examiner Michelle: An artist and singer Barbara: A music teacher and I was for a while. Alexis: Short stop for the New York Yankees. Lisa M.: Professional photographer Arnie: Johnny Gage Emergency 51 (Paramedic) What's Your Favorite: Beach, Mountains or Fields? Beach was the winner by far! What's Your Favorite: Meat or Fish on the BBQ? Meat - only 1 vote for fish out of 45! What’s your favorite - Sour Patch Kids or Gummi Bears? Sour Patch Kids won by 2-1!

PIRE PARK - Located on Northfield Road. This park includes a hardball field, tennis courts, basketball court and playground equipment. 3.5 acres BERTINI PARK - Located on West Dayton Hill Road.Includes a pavilion and a nature trail for hiking. 76.5 acres CARINI FIELD - Located on Woodhouse Avenue. This field includes a large soccer field with two smaller fields crossing them. COMMUNITY LAKE PARK - Located on the West Shore of Community Lake off Hall Avenue. The park offers a pavilion for picnics with restrooms, service window, electricity, utility sink, two tennis courts with lights, one sand volleyball court, a baseball field and basketball court playground equipment. 9.3 acres COOK HILL SCHOOL - Located on School House Road, which includes a hardball field. COYLE FIELD - Located on Woodhouse Avenue, includes a large soccer field with two smaller fields crossing them. DAG HAMMARSKJOLDMIDDLE SCHOOL - Located on Pond Hill Road, includes a hardball field and a softball field. 30.7 acres DOOLITTLE PARK - Located on South Elm Street, includes ball fields, three-lighted tennis courts and two basketball courts. This park is also known for its wonderful playscape. 15.4 acres DUTTON PARK - This park is located at the end of North Main Street, is the home to a Civil War Monument and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. .2 acres HARRIET WALLACE PARK - This park is located on North Elm Street and is a passive park with benches. 6 acres HARRISON PARK - This park is located on Cedar Lane and includes youth girls softball field and three tennis courts. 15.4 acres HIGHLAND SCHOOL - Located on Highland Avenue, and includes a softball field. 21.0 acres JOHANNA MANFREDAFISHBEIN PARK - This park is located on North Colony Road, includes a Gazebo and is permitted out for special events at discretion of Director. Electricity is available upon request. .7 acres KENDRICK PARK - This park is located at the end of Grandview Avenue. This park includes a half court basketball court, playground equipment, and small field hut with restrooms. 9.2 acres LYMAN HALL H.S. - Located on Pond Hill Road, and includes two softball fields, soccer field, football field, and a practice football field. 51.6 acres LUFBERY PARK - Going west on Cheshire Road, it is located at the first bend of the road and has a pavilion, ball field and nature trail. Electrical outlets are available. 45.1 acres MARCUS COOKE PARK - This park is located on Old Rock Hill Road and has two pavilions and a ball field. 34.6 acres MORAN MIDDLE SCHOOL - Located on Hope Hill Road, includes a hardball field. 40.3 acres MOSES Y. BEACH SCHOOL - Located on North Main Street, includes two youth girls softball fields, and one youth rookie field. 6.0 acres PARKER FARMS SCHOOL - Located on Parker Farms Road, includes a hardball field. 20.3 acres PAT WALL FIELD - Located on South Elm Street and includes a High School baseball field. 8.4 acres PRAGEMANN PARK - This park is located on Oak Street, Yalesville. It includes an adult softball field with lights, High School baseball field (doubles as adult softball field) with lights. Large soccer field with two small fields crossing large field, three tennis courts, one roller/street hockey court, pavilion, utility sink, picnic tables and barbecue grills adjacent to pavilion, and field house with restrooms. 26.2 acres QUINNIPIAC RIVER LINEAR TRAIL - A handicap accessible paved trail extending 1.1 miles from Hall Ave. north along the west side of the river, through a tunnel underneath Rt. 15 and ending next to the river. When complete the Wallingford trail will cover 6.7 miles across the town of Wallingford. Questions on any of the above should be directed to the Wallingford Park and Recreation Department at 203-294-2120

Relax, We’ll Take Care Of All The Arrangements!

SMVFD JULY MEETING HELD AT FIRE STATION The July meeting of the South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department was held Thursday, July 1 at the Fire Station. The meeting was called to order by Chief Keith Gordon at 7:00pm. Items of interest included: the annual Old Timers Dinner scheduled for October 22, and final preparations and training sessions of the Department's new off-road vehicle, Ranger (1) were discussed. This vehicle was completely purchased and outfitted with donations by the public, service organizations and the John G Martin foundation and not funded by the City. The Chief and membership again sends thanks to all our contributors who have made this new piece of rescue equipment possible. Firefighter Dereck Cardona, having completed required training and probation, was sworn in as an full active member by Deputy Chief Steve Legere. Congratulations to the following members for successful completion of standard and advance fire fighting courses: Fire Service Instructor I - Capt Gary Manson, Lt Bill Barry, FF Dereck Cardona, FF Hal Kevorkian, FF Rebecca Wilson Firefighter II - FF David Noyes, FF Matt Oakes, FF James Sharples, FF Bret Siegel Firefighter I - FF John Shider III Qualified individuals anxious to serve their community as a Volunteer Firefighter are cordially invited to visit the Fire Station at 31 Camp Street, South Meriden any Monday evening, 7-9:00pm during weekly drill. Sincerely, Chief Keith Gordon

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.

Page 38 July 2010

peolpespressnews.com Exluxive Wild Flowers of Hubbard Park

By Francis W. Lappert I must go back to my early teen years to describe the many wild flowers that grew in the park. There were two small streams that came from Meremere Reservoir and from some springs also. We called that one "Bee Hive Brook" because there was a stone structure at the edge of the swamp opposite Reservoir Ave. shaped like a bee hive. The other small stream on the west side of "Mirror Lake we called shady brook which came from springs in the forest. Both of these streams supported the park with a multitude of wild flowers. Listed among them were the "Adder Tongues which grew in profusion along the stream. Then there were the "Jack-in-the-Pulpits" which were also plentiful, also a white flower called "Blood Root" so called because when picked the stems juice was the color of blood. The yellow flower which grew right in the stream was called "Cow-Slip". The flowers we liked the best were the purple "Lady Slippers" and the yellow variety. The purple ones grew under the pine and hemlock trees in the north of "Meremere" reservoir. The yellow variety grew on the hillsides between Hubbard Park and the reservoir. Today they are very scarce from over-picking and changes made in the park. There was one rare flower that grew up every year on the slope that was the dam for the reservoir, it was called "Dutch Mans Britches" as the flower which was white, resembled a line of britches hung out on a line. On the rock slides on both sides of the reservoir grew the multicolored "Columbines", a very fragile flower. One of the first flower to appear in the spring was the "Mayflower", some were blue others a shade of pink. My sister Rose was always the first person to find them and bring them to the local newspaper. She always knew when they were ready to bloom. On the north of the lake on the sunny hillsides were wild "Geraniums", blue "Violets" and yellow ones which were quite rare. There was also the "Blue Gention" and one called "Wind Flower". There were also the flowering bushes that were quite beautiful. "Honeysuckle" which grew among the rocks near the reservoir, "Mountain Laurel" which was plentiful along the road leading to the "Castle". Along the brook coming from the reservoir were numerous "Pussy Willows". The parks undeveloped forest land has numerous white "Dogwood" trees which are in full blossom at this time. Most of the flowers which I have mentioned are long gone due to the development and improvements made in the park. Where the swimming pool is located we used to play ball in the meadow that was there. Most of the youth in our neighborhood on Reservoir Ave. learned to swim in "Mirror Lake" as it was clean and not polluted. Now the ducks and geese have taken over. I recently received a letter from my sister in California, Rose Lappert Clark, and she listed a number of wild flowers that I had forgotten to mention. Among those are as follows: Solomon's Seal - Along the rocky ledges Saxifrage - Along the rocky ledges Blue Flag - Swampy areas White Violets - Swampy areas White Daisy - Open Field Buttercup - Open Field Wild Aster - Open Field Wild Rose - Open Field Black Eyed Susan - Open Field Snap Dragon - Open Field Clematis - Open Field Anemone - Open Field Red Trillium - Open Woodland Myrtle - Open Woodland Indian Pipes - Open Woodland Added to the fifteen kinds I listed it makes quite an array of wild flowers that once grew in the park. I don't believe there is any other park in Connecticut that can claim such a variety. I challenge anyone to roam through the park and name as many as we both have.

Home Country Slim Randles We all watched as the flag came by. It was the first thing in the parade, of course. Great big one, carried by two of the kids from the ROTC at the high school. The bands followed, along with the mounted patrol, the ski patrol in their summer-weight jackets, the float with the princesses on it, and the local kids leading dogs and cats - some rather reluctantly - on leashes. For some of us, the Fourth of July parade is a chance to see just how much the local kids have grown over the past year. For others, it's a chance to see something that is really ours. This is our parade. These are our people. These are the people who make our little valley unique in the whole world. This is a chance for us all to get together and celebrate us, you know? But all that comes later. What comes first on this day above all others is the American flag. Oh, it's a great big one. Where they found this one, I don't know, but it takes two high school boys to carry it. It really doesn't matter what size it is, because it's what it means to us that counts. To Herb over there, there are memories of his terrible days in Korea, I'm sure, and the wounds that sent him home early. To Doc, maybe it's the way the G.I. Bill let him go back to college and become his life's dream of taking care of sick people. To Annette, over across the street there, there is a look in her eyes that tells us that flag meant she could protest whatever the complaint-du-jour was during her college days. She knows there are few places in the world this tolerant of unpopular opinions. There's Dewey down on the corner. He's got his hand over his heart as the flag goes by. Maybe he's thinking of a country that will allow him to start a business with a borrowed pickup and a shovel and supply our flower beds with fertilizer. He sure hasn't been able to make anything else work for him, so far. But these are just speculations, because what the flag means to each of us is personal. We don't have to tell anyone. We never have to explain. We even have the freedom not to be here looking as the flag goes by. It's an American thing. A very private American moment.

And The Birds Have It By Priscilla Reynolds This story originally started with a boring commentary about my bedroom window transformation from a shoulder height glimpse of my backyard to a double window giving me five times the view, done in 2002. But the birds I see out this window are the high point of my story. Less than two years ago I gave up on the birdhouse my youngest son and his wife gave me for Christmas and instead, pushed the wrought iron hanger deeper in the ground near my window and purchased from Meriden Feed a case of individually wrapped suet cakes and a wire basket which many birds feed from. Within two to three days the basket is empty: 11 ounces of nutty treat devoured by woodpeckers, grackles, sparrows, blue jays and more, not to mention a few grey squirrels. But the birds had most of it. When I see a squirrel on top of the metal hook I call to my dog, Chipper, who intuitively knows what I want and just misses catching Mr. Squirrel. There are times when I fail to recognize the type of bird. The jay that oversees all the chaotic activity in a calm almost exulted way, I call Grandpa Blue Jay. Because he is more black than blue I consider him the elder. Other blue jays squawk and compete but he rules. Many of the little brown birds look like sparrows to me; their wings flutter nearly as much as the humming birds' wings do; are they nervous because of their size or do they love flying? In the winter, occasionally a white capped chickadee stops to feed-a treat for him and a treat for me. The grackles are diverse in form and color but most have a long tail. I stop short on the other side of the window to catch the beautiful purple head of the male common grackle but I'm interrupted by two other smaller grackles who pushes at the same spot on the suet, and of course, one flies away. Ironically, my favorites are the woodpeckers. Toward the end of the winter my suet basket disappeared, even the rope that replaced the broken chain was gone. Did the squirrels get it or did a wandering raccoon grab it? Or did the woodpeckers have it? They are beautiful birds and I love watching them but where did those large holes come from on the side of our home; could it be from that huge red headed woodpecker? Am I an enabler, feeding the birds that demolish my home? I asked the boy who sold me more suet and a new basket.. He thought for a minute, "I think the woodpeckers will be less attentive to drilling the house if they can feed themselves in other ways." (Oh well, one of life's problems still waits to be solved.) Yesterday I witnessed two small downy woodpeckers kissing or was that an illusion. They danced around the suet, not at all nervously and touched beaks. How could I think ill of them? My bedroom is confining but my window opens my perspective and my cluttered home no longer closes in on me. No curtain obstructs my view. My grand daughter observed, "Where do you get dressed? Aren't you afraid someone will watch you?" My answer, "I just turn off the light or dress in the bathroom." Perhaps, there's a raven who peeks in on me-that might bring a little romance, a little fantasy to an older woman's hum drum life. Speaking of drumming, I must have the deep holes repaired on the side of the house.

City of Meriden Parks to enjoy this summer! Meriden has over 3,000 acres of park land. The total percentage of Meriden's land devoted to parks is 17.6%, and no other city in New England can match that percentage! Park Location Acres Baldwin Pond North Wall Street & Westfield Road 20 Beaver Pond Hicks Avenue 15 Bronson Park Cook Avenue 4 Brookside Park Bunker Avenue 11 Carroll Park Bee Street & Baldwin Avenue 6 Cedar Park Cedar Street & Park Street 2 Ceppa Field Gale Avenue 10 City Park Bunker Avenue & Warren Street 8 Columbus Park Lewis Avenue 12 Crescent Crescent Street & Pleasant Street 1 Dossin Beach Oregon Road 19 Falcon Field Westfield Road 26 Giuffrida Park Westfield Road 598 Habershon Meadow Street & Camp Street 18 Hubbard Park West Main Street 1803 Ives Park Knob Hill & Race Brook Road 9 Johnson Hill Johnson Avenue 4 Kronenberger West View Drive & Maple Avenue 16 Nessing Field Murdock Avenue 12 North End Field Britannia Street & Tremont Street 6 Quinnipiac River Road & Oregon Road 23 Skate Park Coe Avenue. St. John's Park Bee Street 10 Washington Park Liberty Street 10 Water Park Park Street & Franklin Street John Zajac Park Elmwood Drive 1 The submission deadline for our August issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is July 30th. Email your stories, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos and celebrations to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com.

Carrie Purcell Energy Medicine Practitioner

I Can Help Your Best Friends...Your Pets!

Stresses, traumas, surgeries, and even genetic predisposition all contribute to dis-ease in our animal companions. Animals of all species respond well to energy medicine. After working with your pet, I share with you what I have found and ways that you can continue to help them on your own. Let my experience help you and your pet!

Healings include: pre and post surgical healings arthritis and old-age diseases (kidney and liver support) cancer healings preventative & general health healings

For more information visit www.carriepurcell.com To schedule an appointment call 203.623.7386

Page 39 July 2010

peolpespressnews.com Exluxive Summer Fun at Mystic Aquarium

To The Readers of The People's Press: At Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, close encounters of the incredible kind happen every day. This summer, there's a world of new experiences awaiting guests, from exhibits featuring fascinating species and animal encounter programs to a theater that allows you to experience ocean exploration live, as it happens. New Residents: On the main exhibit floor, get an up-close look at jellies in the new Jellies: The Ocean in Motion exhibit. Among the six species on exhibit are moon jellies, commonly found in Long Island Sound; hypnotizing comb jellies, which appear to have electrical currents running through them; unusual upside-down jellies. Species in this ever-changing exhibit will vary throughout the year. "Many guests remember when the large, cylinder tank in the main exhibit floor entrance was filled with jellies, and have expressed their interest in seeing more," said Jonathan Scoones, director of exhibits at Mystic Aquarium, a division of Sea Research Foundation. "This exhibit was designed to showcase many types - from big to small and even some local species - while displaying their grace and unique swimming patterns." At the new Shark Encounters exhibit, touch the backs of white-spotted bamboo sharks as they glide by. The shallow pool allows for easy reach of these docile, bottom-dwelling sharks. The exhibit houses six sharks, all one to three feet in length. "Conservation of sharks is an important issue right now. Some populations have declined as much as 80 percent in recent years," said Dr. Tracy Romano, senior vice president of research and zoological operations at Mystic Aquarium. "This exhibit provides a great opportunity for guests to cultivate a bond with these animals while learning about the threats various species are facing in the wild." In the Marine Theater, Jetty amuses audiences with his playful antics during the daily shows featuring California sea lions. The newest addition to the show, the young pup is learning quickly and frequently demonstrates new behaviors. Other young residents include Blue-Black and Blue-Purple, two African penguin chicks born in late January. The chicks recently left their nests to join the 27 other penguins in the Roger Tory Peterson Penguin Exhibit. The two chicks are easy to recognize - they still have their gray plumage until next year, when they'll get their black and white adult feathers. Animal Encounters With the summer here, Mystic Aquarium's popular animal encounter programs are back. Get waist-deep in the water with a beluga whale during a Beluga Encounter, or interact with one over a low window during the Whales Up Close program, designed for younger guests or those who don't want to get wet. Learn about African penguins and the threats they face in the wild during the Penguin Encounter program, as a penguin waddles freely around the room. At the Ray Touch Pool, pet a ray and even feed it right out of your hands in the new Ray Feeding Program. Birds of the Outback, an enclosed 1,200-square-foot aviary houses hundreds of colorful Australian cockatiels, parakeets and rosellas, is back for a fourth summer. With the $3 exhibit entry fee, guests receive a millet seed stick for feeding the free-flying birds right out of their hands. For more information on Mystic Aquarium's animals, exhibits and programs, as well as additional details to plan your visit, visit mysticaquarium.org or call (860) 572-5955.

"Sheltering an Animal's Perspective" By Gregory M. Simpson With a love for animals, Lassie was my favorite television show as a child. The plot was always the same. There would be a crisis, such as Lassie falling into a ditch, and of course she would eventually get rescued. Timmy and Lassie would then walk off into the sunset for a happy ending. The only problem was that it would take me hours to calm down because I was still distraught over the predicament Lassie faced. With that as my personality, perhaps it was inevitable that an avocation in animal rescue would follow. As someone once said, to the world you're just a person but to an animal you are the world. My "community" of animals to help is the state of Connecticut where I assist animals in as many ways as I can, including by writing this column. I find ample opportunities to help, ranging from simple acts like petting the rescued cat sitting in my lap as this column is penned, to being active in a number of animal welfare and animal rights organizations. Today my message is to encourage others to do the same, i.e., think consciously of how to help animals in your self-defined community. Think about it. Realize that the possibilities are virtually endless. Some can be personal, like when I decided that I need not eat animals to live, and became a vegetarian. Others can be public, like carrying a placard to protest puppy mills, research on animals, fur coats, circuses, or other animal cruelty. Kindness to animals takes many forms. They can be small, for as Aesop wrote, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." Feeding the birds in one's backyard - the squirrels, too - especially when the winter landscape turns to snow and ice, is a simple act. Yet simple acts can be most fulfilling. I've become something of the "bird man" in New Haven, feeding the pigeons and sparrows in a small park each morning on the way from the parking garage to the office. Sometimes kindness can be shown even after an animal has died. Phone numbers for the state and local highway departments are in my Rolodex, in order to report the sighting of a dead deer, cat, or other animal in the road. Bringing some measure of dignity to their passing is the intent. Connecticut's public and private animal shelters need volunteers. Most operate totally on volunteers so the need is essential and always present. Dogs must be walked and groomed, cats fed, cages cleaned, and loving homes found. Fund raising is a constant necessity. If protecting animals through legislative lobbying is more your interest, consider joining Connecticut Votes for Animals (www.ctvotesforanimals.org). In its first year, CVA succeeded in having a puppy lemon law passed. This law requires pet stores to buy puppies from only USDA and state licensed breeders rather than puppy mills. The law also requires veterinary reimbursements to customers who unknowingly purchase sick animals. In the last legislative session, one focus of Connecticut Votes for Animals was on strengthening a currently vague law against unreasonable chaining and tethering of dogs. This law was passed, as well. There are many ways to advocate for animals. Writing letters and joining a protest march are two of them. Donating your time and money are others. Don't underestimate how much you can do as an individual or small group. As the anthropologist Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Think about what you would define as your community and show kindness in ways that work best for you - and the animals. As Henry James wrote, "Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind." For the animals, Gregory M. Simpson Gregory Simpson's animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also an award winning member of the Cat Writers' Association.

4th Annual Neighborhood Hotdog Roast Sponsored by Immanuel Lutheran Church Saturday, July 17th, 4-6pm - Immanuel Lutheran Parking lot. Hanover and Cook Avenue. (rain date - July 18th) Hotdogs, Chips, and Soda provided. Please bring a desert to share, if you can. Music, games, face painting, moon bouncer. Come meet your neighbors. All are welcome!

CELEBRATIONS

Riders get ready to drop off the first hill on the “Mad Mouse” (aka “Monster”) roller coaster as the American flag waves from nearby Quassy Beach. The park is open daily now through Labor Day.

peolpespressnews.com Exluxive Online Subscriber - Facebook Polls Sign-up at www.peoplespressnews.com or follow us on Facebook to be a part of it! The top answers are listed below for our question.

Where are you going locally this summer with your family? Hubbard Park in Meriden Hubbard Park, located in the Hanging Hills of Connecticut, is a wooded, mountainous park located just north of downtown urban Meriden, Connecticut. It comprises approximately 1,800 acres (7.3 km2) of carefully kept woodlands, streams, dramatic cliff faces, flower gardens, and the James Barry bandshell and picnic spots, as well as its showpiece, Mirror Lake. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park is crossed by a number of hiking trails, most notably the 51-mile (82 km) blue-blazed Metacomet Trail (maintained by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association), which traverses East Peak and West peak the park..From the top of Castle Craig it is possible to see most of the Quinnipiac Valley region, Long Island Sound, and the distant higher peaks of southern New England Hubbard Park is on West Main Street in Meriden. For more information visit the City of Meriden’s website at www.cityofmeriden.org.

Sleeping Giant State Park

Two miles of mountaintop resembling a large man lying in repose, the "sleeping giant", is a popular feature of the south central Connecticut skyline. A 1 1/2 mile scenic trail leads to the stone observation tower on the peak of Mt. Carmel which provides an excellent view of Long Island Sound and the New Haven area. There are so many other hiking trails to enjoy no matter what location of the Giant. The main parking lot for Sleeping Giant is at 200 Mount Carmel Avenue in Hamden directly across from Quinnipiac University. However, if you are coming from Wallingford take the back roads starting on Tuttle Avenue and you’ll find free parking at various trailheads to enjoy including a beautiful gorge trail that will lead you past beautiful water views and head up to the castle in a more private setting. For more information visit the Sleeping Giant Park Association at www.sgpa.org

Wallingford and Meriden Linear Trails

The Quinnipiac River Linear Trail in Wallingford The Quinnipiac River Linear Trail is a multi use trail that parallels the Quinnipiac River in Wallingford. While currently only about 1.25 miles long it does represent an important first step in establishing a longer trail. The trail location sits at the precipice of some beautiful woodlands along the banks of the river. It’s the perfect trail for a beautiful short walk or bike ride. Enjoy the wildlife, birds, flowers and more.The entrance is located at Community Lake. Quinnipiac River Gorge Trail in Meriden Construction of the 1.3 mile linear trail alongside the Quinnipiac River in the City of Meriden was completed in 2006 and celebrated with a Grand Opening on November 3, 2007. This paved trail has as its Grand Entrance, two brownstone columns located in Lion’s Club Park at the handicapped parking area on Oregon Road at Red Bridge. General parking is available and is accessible by sidewalk from the Dossin Beach parking area alongside Hanover Pond on Oregon Road. Additional parking may be found at the gravel parking lot on Finch Avenue at the Cheshire town line. The trail sits on the railroad bed of the Meriden, Waterbury & Connecticut River Railroad (circa 1890’s) and provides several scenic viewing areas along the Quinnipiac River below, with informational kiosks installed at some of these areas. For more information visit www.meridenlineartrail.org.

Millers Pond in Durham

Millers Pond was acquired in 1955 by the State Park and Forest Commission from the heirs of Thomas Macdonough Russell with monies provided in the trust fund of George Dudley Seymour. At that time the park consisted of 30 acres of pond and 170 acres of wooded land in the towns of Durham and Haddam. In succeeding years the state purchased additional property, completing acquisition of all the land around the pond in 1972. Millers Pond is unique in that its principal source of water comes from large springs which create a body of unpolluted water excellent for small mouth bass or trout. The original dam at the pond was erected some time before 1704. Thomas Miller built the upper dam to provide a reservoir to serve his gristmill further downstream. This park is a designated "walk-in" facility. Gravel parking is available at the main gate. Pit toilets are accessible. The park is located on Foot Hills Road in Durham. Take Rt. 68 towards Durham. Take a left on Rt. 17. Take a right onto Maiden Lane. Bear right onto Johnson Lane and then bear left onto Foot Hills Road. For more information visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millers_Pond_State_Park.

LocalMotion - August Issue!

We’re sure you had some great summer adventures so far this year! Where did you go? How was it? Send your story to be a part of our Summer Fun - August issue of The People’s Press. As always, photos are always welcome. The People’s Press has always been about YOU! Share some of your good news by emailing andy@peoplespressnews.com by July 30th to be a part of our next issue. Remember that you can call us at 203-235-9333 if we can help in any way!

Page 40 July 2010

Town of Wallingford Announces Community and Mental Health Assistance Programs Our goal is to ensure ALL Wallingford residents are informed of the location and contact numbers for services provided by contract through the Town of Wallingford for Community Health and Mental Health Services. Beginning July 1, 2010 The Community Public Health Services will be coordinated by the Wallingford Health Department and Community Mental Health Services will be coordinated by the Wallingford Department of Youth and Social Services. An initial intake appointment to determine financial ability is required by the Service Provider. Specifically: Well Child Clinics are designed to provide vaccines and both school entrance and sports physicals for children aged birth through 18 years (or high school completion) that are un/underinsured. The new location for this Service, starting July 2010 will be located at 185 Center St., Wallingford. The initial clinics are scheduled for July 22nd and 29th. Please call 203-886-6435 for an appointment starting 6/25/10. TB screenings and limited immunizations for residents that are un/underinsured, no age restrictions. Please call 203-886-6435 for an appointment starting 6/25/10. Federal Program Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provided by City of Meriden Health Department for Wallingford residents. Please call to schedule an appointment 203-630-4245 Community Mental Health Services including individual counseling and support groups for un/underinsured and will be located at 185 Center Street, Wallingford. To schedule a counseling appointment or to learn more about support group services you may call either Rushford Community Services or Wallingford Youth & Social Services at 203-294-2175. Childhood Dental Services are available by appointment for children age 218 yrs who are un/underinsured and include dental screening, cleaning and sealants. The Clinic is located at VNA of Wallingford 135 North Plains Industrial Rd, 203-269-1475. Nursing Services are available at the Wallingford Senior Center to provide health assessments and services for Wallingford seniors. The Center is located at 238 Washington St., Please call directly for more information 203-2657753. Additional Assistance Programs: State Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) is available, no age restriction. Contact the Wallingford Youth and Social Services 203-294-2175 for this program. The Community Health Center provides full medical and dental care to financially qualified Wallingford residents, no age restrictions but you must call for an intake appointment 203-237-2229. The CHC is located at 134 State St., Meriden. Wallingford Health Department - 203-294-2065 Wallingford Department of Youth & Social Services - 203-294-2175

MidState Medical Center offers Support Group for Stroke Survivors MidState Medical Center announces the initiation of its Stroke Support Group, an interactive group designed to assist stroke survivors and their caregivers in learning more about stroke and recovery issues, as well as share common challenges and experiences. The group will be facilitated by Pat Giannelli, ACNS, PMHCNS, FNP, MidState's Neurology Services APRN. The Stroke Support Group will be held the first Wednesday of each month from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in Conference Room 7 at MidState Medical Center. Cherish your visions and your dreams as they are the children of your soul; the blueprints of your ultimate achievements