Get Happy With It!
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LocalMotion - Your Town, Your News, Your Views! June 2010 • Volume 10, Issue 128
Happy Father's Day My step father is the best because of these reasons. He is a nice, he is helpful, and he is there for me when I need him. One thing that I am thankful for about him is that he is there for me when I need him. When my dad died and my aunt died he gave my family a shoulder to cry on and to lean on when we needed it. Another thing is he is always there for me when I need someone to talk to - he always listens to what I have to say to him. The second thing why he is a good stepfather is that he is helpful. He helps me in sports. He teaches me how to be a good basketball player, soccer and other sports. Another thing that he helps me in was in school like with math, spelling, and reading and also helped me with my grades. He always told me to keep my head up when I needed help and to always try my best in school. The last thing why he is a good stepfather is that he is a nice and caring per-
190 Center Street. 203.265.1514
son. He is a nice person to my family no matter if we are a pain in like butt sometimes. He always puts smiles on everyone faces when we are upset. One thing that I like about him is that he cheers me on when I play my sports. I cant ever ask for a better stepfather then him because he always puts one big smile on my moms face and that is all I ask for is for my mom to be happy with one guy and that is him. That is why he is a good stepfather. So I hope u have a wonderful fathers day! Love, Shelby Throughout this issue of The People’s Press you will find Father’s Day essays by the 5th grade students of Benjamin Franklin Elementary School. They were chosen at random among many that were written. You can read all of the essays at www.peoplespressnews.com. To all of the children who wrote - all we can say is YOU ALL did a wonderful job writing and sharing your feelings.
Page 2 June 2010
COLE BROS. CIRCUS 126th Edition Is Coming Cole Bros. Circus of the Stars celebrates it's 126th Edition. This year it's bigger and better than ever. Soon the ginormous big top will be moving into town bringing all the excitement of the traditional circus. The circus is truly the place where families come together and sharing in memories that last a life time. The Hub Meriden, CT Wed, June 30 & Thu, July 1, 2010 Tickets on sale NOW at Meriden City Clerk Office, Luna's Pay A Bill, & Tickets.com Showdays on the Circus Midway Showimes: 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. daily Free Kids Tickets available at Area Merchants & www.freekidstickets.com
Photo of Gillette Castle by Joshua Reynolds
Summer Camp - Summer Fun!
Meriden YMCA Mountain Mist Day Camp
Where There's Magic in the Mist!
Register now for Summer Camp Preview Week: June 21 - June 25 Something for everyone: Session One: June 28 - July 9 Traditional Camps, Fort Building, Rock Climbing Session Two: July 12 - July 23 Up the Creek with A Paddle Session Three: July 26 - August 6 Arts Camp, Band Camp, Hip Hop Camp Session Four: August 9 - August 20 Fishing Camp, Space Camp Ages 3 through grade 11 Fitness Camp, Journalism Camp Extended am and pm hours available Adaptive Camp Bring this ad and register by June 30th and your name will be entered in our drawing to win a 3 month family membership.
203-235-6386
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Page 3 June 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 4 June 2010
Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties Before I begin my article, my deepest apology to my granddaughter Abby. In the last issue I referred to her erroneously as a 13 year old child. It should have read a 13 year adult. Now my conscience is cleared. I finally made my first trip to the nurseries. Dietriches, Hilzingers and Tower Farms on Route 10 in Cheshire. This is the latest I've ever been. Did not need any perennials. Just the annuals. Wanted to make sure there would be no more cool nights which could cause them damage. Most of the containers have been filled. The two small rock gardens have to be done as well as the area I fill with impatiens. Some of the perennials I have changed their schedule. The evening primrose has been blooming for almost a month. Mine usually don't start until the end of May or beginning of June. These are the ones which you can watch coming into bloom before sunset and close up by eight the next morning. In the twenty years I've been growing them, for the first time I had one that remained fully in bloom the whole next day. Too bad they don't always because they are so pretty. The foxglove quite large and tall. Probably the biggest I've ever had. Usually about the middle of May my hibiscus began to make a showing. Not this spring. Some of them are already two and half feet tall. Since I'm so short I expect them to be my height in another four and five weeks. So far only one sunflower re-seeded in one of the flower beds. Hope the squirrels overlook it. Have plenty of peanuts for them. But don't think that will totally satisfy them. Not if they should discover that particular flower. Jimmy and I went up to Westforts for his tomato plants. All of them have been planted in the tubs. Carol and Richard greeted us very warmly. And as usual I told them how much I miss going up there for the flowers. This is the third year they've gone into retirement. Time sure flies. Am on my way up to Andy's, which is only two houses away with my article. Before my trek up there I took a small intermission from writing and planted one of the rock gardens. I'm sure the other one will be completed long before this issue is out. Andy and his wife Dawn have one of the most beautiful azalea bushes I've ever seen. It's covered with white and pink blossoms. Just gorgeous. Have never seen azalea blooms this large. They look almost like petunias. Absolutely gorgeous! Happy Gardening! Flowercerely Yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien
The Best Dad Ever By Katie Have you ever wondered what a great father is? If someone asked me that question my answer would be "my dad". My dad is a great dad because he helps me with stuff, takes us places, and teaches us new things. My dad helps my brother and sister and I with homework. When we get home he makes sure all of the homework gets done before you can play. My dad helps them while he makes dinner. He also helps us build stuff. When I use to make cars for the Girl Scout car derby he helped me make the car out of wood and then I painted it. My dad helped me learn to play the flute; he also tried to help me play the guitar. My dad is awesome because he takes us places. He takes us to the Hartford Science Museum, Mystic Aquarium, and a couple of years ago he took us to Disney World. Last year my Dad also took us to Miley Cyrus contest. We always have an awesome time wherever we go. When we go places we also usually get to buy stuff. My dad teaches us new things. When I was four he taught me how to ride a bike with training wheels. When I was six he taught me how to ride a bike without training wheels. He also did the same thing for my siblings. Without my dad I would still be on a tricycle. He also helped to teach me how to read by reading me stories every night when I was little. My dad id an awesome, super, great, and amazing dad. I am lucky to have a dad like him. He is always willing to helps us and teach us. He also takes us to fun places just to make us happy. I LOVE MY DAD!!!
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Walk CT - Father's Day Family Ramble! Sponsored by the Connecticut Forest & Parks Association Where: Hubbard Park/New England Trail, West Main Street, Meriden When: Father's Day - June 20, 2010 from 10:00am - 1:00pm Admission: Free, but please pre-register by contacting the CT F&P Association at 860-346-2372 or info@ctwoodlands.org Highlights Bag some peaks with your father, uncle, grandparent, or other important male figure to celebrate Father's Day. This peak-bagging Ramble, or climbing up to summits, is suitable for kids from age 9 years and up. The purpose of this hike is for dads and sons (or daughters!) to bond in this beautiful slice of Connecticut traprock. Enjoy beautiful views of New Haven Harbor if the day is clear (West Peak) or climb Castle Craig for photo opportunities of Sleeping Giant. Directions Follow road around lake, through stop sign. Park on right across from public pool. Look for a big, red Ford F-150 and the Family Guide holding "WalkCT Family Rambles" sign. Further information: End time is approximate, depending on participants' interest in staying on the "Low Loop" (about 1 hour) or hiking West Peak & Castle Craig which will be approximately 3 hours. Event notes or comments: There will be some rugged sections of trail, so hiking shoes are strongly recommended. Bring at least 24 oz of water for "Low Loop", double that for extended peak bagging trip. Back pack with snacks or lunch for longer trip. Rain cancels. To prepare for a safe and enjoyable time: 1. Bring water, snack, and your excitement; 2. Leave pets at home; 3. Wear sturdy shoes; and 4. Kids, please remember to bring your parents or caregivers
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.
Free Airplane Ride! EAA Chapter 27 presents Young Eagles Day Meriden-Markham Airport Saturday, June 12, 2010 9 am - 3 pm (Rain Date June 13) All kids ages 8 thru 17 are eligible Parent or guardian must be present in order to participate For more information Contact Fran Uliano, the Chapter 27 Young Eagle Coordinator at 860-347-0412.
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Daddy, Thanks for all the hard work you did on my playset. I love you so much! Love, Con-con
CELEBRATIONS
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Open for Lunch and Dinner Featuring: *Southern and Northern Italian Cuisine * Veal, Chicken & Seafood Specialties * Large Selection of Salads * Pizza * Grinders * Homemade Burgers * Specialty Wraps “Come visit and enjoy one of our finely prepared meals in the comfort of our new dining and lounge areas”
34 River Road in South Meriden
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Page 5 June 2010
Wallingford Public Library's Children's Library Summer Reading This summer the Wallingford Public Library's Children's Library will be offering two special reading programs for kids. Research shows that reading is crucial to a child's brain development and intellectual stimulation. Our goal is to make reading more fun than ever and keep those brains active this summer! Be sure your child is ready to return to school in the fall by keeping them reading - and enjoying the process! Haunt Your Library This Summer: for school-age kids Kids who like a "spooky" good time will want to sign up for this year's Ghoulish Gameboard and spin the "Wheel of Misfortune"! Spending time with books earns you a chance to travel on the Boardwalk and visit places like the Dread and Breakfast and the Haunted Library. There will be lots of laughter along the way and we plan to inspire lots of reading too. Ice Cream for Books: for the younger crowd Families participating in this program will keep track of their reading with the help of a colorful reading log, and will help build a giant paper ice cream cone as they read. Kids will collect bookmarks, and earn chances to win very "cool" raffle prizes! * Both programs are FREE * Registration begins June 4th and will run throughout the program * Haunt Your Library will run from Monday, June 28 - Friday, August 6 and the Ghoulish Gameboard will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. * Kids who finish will earn prizes as well as raffle tickets that will enter them in drawings for more "cool" prizes! * All kids who finish earn a certificate to bring to school in the fall * Reading done for the any Library program counts for all other Reading Programs including the Governor's Reading Challenge * Book Displays will be ready with titles on the The Wallingford Public School's Suggested Summer Reading List Kick off the Summer with Danny Magic! @ the Wallingford Public Library Kick off your summer with an evening of haunting magic at the Wallingford Public Library and be sure to sign up for Summer Reading! Danny Magic, known for programs that surprise and entertain all ages, will be here on Wednesday, June 30 at 7:00 p.m. The program is free and everyone is welcome. Rock Cats Rock! A Special Storytime with Rocky the Rock Cat at the Wallingford Public Library This is the perfect opportunity for all young baseball bans to join Rocky, the New Britain Rock Cats mascot for a special summer storytime on Tuesday, June 29th at 10:00 a.m. in the Community Room of the Wallingford Public Library. Baseball stories will be featured and Rocky will be signing autographs, shaking hands and giving out bookmarks to everyone. Don't miss this fun start to a summer of reading! Family Night Join Crystal Raiola for Family Night on Friday, June 4 at 7:00 p.m. in the Wallingford Public Library Children's Program Room for a Jammy Jamboree!! Children ages 3-8 and their caregivers are invited. Make sure you wear your pajamas and slippers and bring a favorite bedtime pal. We will read silly stories, watch a short film and finish the evening with a craft. Sign up begins May 20. New York Life Child ID Program at Wallingford Public Library Dava Vitale, of the New York Life Company, will be in the Wallingford Public Library's Children's Library on Friday, June 4 at 6:30 p.m. to offer interested parents a free Child ID card. Those interested may have their child fingerprinted and photographed. The ID cards are given to parents to be used in case of an emergency. This program is free to any parent interested in having an ID card for their child.
Someone Special To Me Dear Luke, My life at one time was perfect or at least I thought it to be. I had both my parents with me and a brother which whom I occasionally agreed. I was once a high honor student, five eight with long brown hair but years rolled by to find me and trade up my luck with despair. At one time I was happy no fears and no regrets until the day my mom was taken from me with no warning or subtle threat. My life had passed before me, at nineteen my best days already gone, until I met the man who drowned away the pain and all I had thought was wrong. No one before him has ever stayed around long enough to know my darkest secrets or raw and honest truths or to meet my strong Italian family who raised me from my youth. I knew from the first day I met him he was sent to rescue me and we were put on earth to find each other and save ourselves from any past misery. When my mom, my best friend was taken I was left with a hole in my heart and only one boy could help heal it whether he knows it or not. My life before now was a "fairy tale " at least everyone thought it seemed that way, the only thing missing before the tragic loss of my mom was my Mr. Right. Along the way I found him and in what more perfect time. When everything in my life was falling apart he held my hope together if it wasn't for him I honestly don't know where Id be now. He is the most caring, selfless, loving boyfriend I could ever ask for. Two years later we continue to prove everyone wrong and are stronger than ever. I know my mom is looking down on all of us and is very proud of you for helping me in every aspect of my life and encouraging me with every goal I have. I wish she could've met you and I wish things could go back in time the way the were when she was alive, the only thing Id change back then is that we would've met sooner. I love you so much I just wanted to say thank you for all you do for me. I am so lucky to have you in my life. You have saved me in every way possible. I love you Luke Love always, Brittney Mare Winslow
Happy Father’s Day Comfort Keepers of Wallingford, CT would like to say Happy Fathers Day and to say that it is so important for all children to show gratitude for all their support and love. Sons and daughters who are blessed with a loving father should consider themselves fortunate. For, they feel safe knowing they have someone to count on and to guide them when they are heading down the wrong path. This is where we owe dad a big thanks for his adorable scolding and affectionate punishments. Then there are times when he is there to give you courage before the big game or offer some help on a school project. Dads also protect their children from everyday worries while guiding them along the road to success. That's why many young kids look up to their fathers as the powerful and intelligent head of the household with a lot of resourceful knowledge. Their sons grow up trying to emulate their fathers since dad is the strongest person in their home and daughters just become daddy's little girl. Even for the grownups fathers are someone whom they look up to for the most experienced and honest advice that is always in the best of our interest. All children should make a gallant effort to celebrate Father's Day with their Dad. Remember to pamper dad for the day in a manner he likes the most. Such as going out for a picnic or indulging him with a gourmet meal. Children can also express love with thoughtful gifts accompanied by their favorite activity like a ballgame or an afternoon of fishing. Now if you live far away then maybe you can find a nice gift that relates to what he enjoys most like a gift certificate to his favorite restaurant or a prepaid day of golf with his own golf cart. The idea is to show our affection and tell Daddy how much he is loved and appreciated not just on Father's Day but every single day of our lives.
Join Us for Family Fest at the Meriden YMCA Mountain Mist Outdoor Center The Meriden YMCA is having a Family Fest on June 12th from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at our Mountain Mist Outdoor Center on High Hill Road. Join us for a fun day for the whole family including: swimming, pony rides, bounce house, face painting, and Curious Creatures show. This event is open to the public. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Call us today for free tickets at 203-235-6386 203-235-6386. The best inheritance a person can give to his children is a few minutes of his time each day --O. A. Battista
LocalMotion - Local Business! To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our July "Summer Fun" issue is June 28th!
* 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
Please check out our website for upcoming events and specials. www.jhhair.com 437 Broad Street in Meriden 203-2 235-3 3166
Come on down to Rosie's Café on Thursday, June 24th to support Jennifer's House of Hair as they host their 1st Celebrity Bartending night. There will be drinks, food, drawings, 50/50, music and good times!! Jennifer, Lisa, Sarah, and Heather will be your favorite waitresses for the evening, along with Jim behind the bar! All tips and proceeds from drawings will be donated 100% to The Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis and to Our Companions. Rosie's Café is located at 194 Camp Street in Meriden. The event will take place from 5p.m. to 9p.m. *This event will take place instead of the Cut-A-Thon*
Help Wanted We are looking for an experienced hair dresser with a following clientele.
Space Available For Rent *1 space is for manicures/pedicures and is approximately 500sq. ft *The other space is upstairs above the salon. It is a large and spacious room, which is great for massage, facials/skin, or anything that has to do with health and wellness.
For more information please contact the salon at 203.235.3166
Page 6 June 2010
Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself. They come through you but not from you, And though they are with you, yet they belong not to you. --Kahlil Gibran A child reminds us that playtime is an essential part of our daily routine. -Anonymous
CELEBRATIONS
Happy Father’s Day! We love you! Love, Alexis and Ashley
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We would like to thank all of our readers and advertisers who donated to make Wallingford’s fireworks a reality this year. YOU made it happen and now you can enjoy the show on July 3rd! LocalMotion - Local Causes! www.peoplespressnews.com
Mayor's Corner - Wallingford Dear Friends: At this time of year our thoughts turn to Graduations and Summertime fun. This year Wallingford's Project Graduation marks the 21st year of a community wide effort to make graduation night safe for all Wallingford high school graduates. The alcohol and substance free celebration will be held immediately following commencement ceremonies. The event is held at the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Facility and is free of charge to all Wallingford graduates. Those interested in supporting this program may mail donations to: Project Graduation 2010, c/o Wallingford Youth and Social Services, 6 Fairfield Boulevard, Wallingford, CT 06492. Wallingford's Parks and Recreation Department will once again sponsor The Twilight Tunes Concert Series beginning on Wednesday July 7th on the Wallingford Parade grounds at 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Wednesday Concerts will run through August 25th except for the evening of Wednesday, July 28th when the Hyperflight Frisbee Dog Contest will be held at Doolittle Park-always a great fun event. The "R" Band Concert series held at the Wallingford Senior Center begin on Thursday, July 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th. All concerts will begin at 6:30 - 7:45 p.m. Wallingford Center Inc. will also be promoting summertime with their annual Gardeners' Market which begins Saturday July 17th through September 25th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon at the Johanna M. Fishbein Park on Route 5. Over 50 vendors are expected this year. For information regarding additional events, please contact WCI at 203-2841807 or wallingfordcenterinc.com. We extend Congratulations and Best Wishes to the graduating Classes of 2010 and wish everyone an enjoyable "summertime in Wallingford". William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor
Mayor's Corner - Meriden Our community has had an amazing series of recent, positive community events and happenings with many more scheduled throughout the summer. The Boys Scouts of America celebrated their 100th Anniversary with a weekend campout at Hubbard Park. This was a phenomenal honor for Meriden to host this event for over 600 scouts. It brought many families to our beautiful Hubbard Park for a wonderful weekend. The scouts completed some hands on improvement projects including marking the trails leading to Castle Craig. Kudos to the scout organizers for a masterful job of organizing this event! The Meriden Lions Club held their annual Duck Race and Fishing Derby under sunny skies. Both the Fishing Derby and Duck Race were well attended providing pleasure for numerous children and families. Another fine accomplishment by our local Lions Club members. The Hubbard Park Bandshell was the place for the city wide School Music Program featuring the music of Meriden's talented Middle School and High School musicians and singers. Over 1,500 attendees gathered to enjoy the fruits of Meriden's schools' music programs. Our national award winning elementary school, Thomas Hooker, presented "High School Musical Jr." at Maloney High School to an enthusiastic crowd. The students did themselves proud with an energetic and entertaining performance. The annual Kiwanis Peanut Day will be on June 10 throughout Meriden. The Meriden Rotary Club will host their Annual Motorcycle Megaride in memory of Dan Hunter on Sunday June 27, 11:30 AM at Hubbard Park. This event will donate proceeds to the Dan M. Hunter Memorial Fund. The Cole Brothers Circus is coming to town at the downtown Hub on Wednesday and Thursday, June 30 and July 1 for four shows. Children 12 and under accompanied by an adult are free. This circus makes 200 appearances across 26 states and is a wonder for all to see. Bring the family out for a great time! Westfield Meriden will be having a fantastic fireworks display and a party with live entertainment at the Westfield Parking Deck on Friday, July 2 at 6 PM. Come out and enjoy a great seat for a BIG fireworks extravaganza! Enjoy all that Meriden has to offer during the summer. Mike Rohde Mayor of Meriden
Choate Rosemary Hall Executive Sponsors of the "Wallingford Fireworks 2010" From its shared roots over a century ago as The Choate School and Rosemary Hall, through the merger in 1974, to the Choate Rosemary Hall of today, the name represents the best in American secondary education. The more than 16,000 graduates can attest to the quality of Choate's academic program, but that is only one aspect of the education a student receives. Through interactions with members of the entire Choate community, students mature into young adults who not only have stretched their minds, but have grown personally, spiritually, artistically, and athletically. Two interwoven priorities define the Choate experience: a rigorous academic curriculum and an emphasis on the formation of character in a residential setting that allows for teachers and students to live with, and learn from, each other in important ways. The curriculum inspires students to: o Think critically and to communicate clearly. o Understand various methods of intellectual inquiry and their connections to each other. o Recognize the interconnections of learning. o Work independently and in partnership with others. o Develop a global perspective on cultural, social, political, and environmental issues. o Appreciate the importance of beauty and grace in their lives. o Achieve distinction in accordance with their individual interests and talents. In these ways, students are prepared to seek knowledge for its own sake and to pursue further study at the finest colleges and universities. The development of character is a responsibility that rests with every member of the community. In classrooms, on playing fields, in residential houses, students grow in confidence and self-esteem, and are instilled with such fundamental values as honesty, integrity, teamwork, generosity, and compassion toward others. Choate also fosters community involvement and service as it prepares students to assume leadership roles in an ever-changing world. As part of its commitment to character formation, the school offers regular community-wide reflections on moral and spiritual issues, as well as exposure to various religious traditions. Choate attracts intellectually gifted and motivated students from diverse backgrounds whose commitment to serious study is enhanced in this personally supportive and academically challenging setting. On a campus that inspires a particular sensitivity to beauty, teachers - who share genuine respect and affection for young people - impart an enthusiasm for life and for learning. Choate is confident that its graduates will go forth from a school that values each of them for their particular talents and enthusiasms; that affirms the importance of personal integrity and a sense of self-worth; that inspires and nourishes joy in learning and love of truth; and that provides the intellectual stimulation to generate independent thought, confident expression, and a commitment to improve the welfare of others. It is the around-the-corner brand of hope that prompts people to action, while the distant hope acts as an opiate. ~Eric Hoffer
Page 7 June 2010
Wallingford Land Trust Work Party
About South Meriden's Hidden Park - VASA PARK
Date: Saturday June 19, 2010 Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the third Saturday. Type: Club Event (Public) Location: Meet at the cul-de-sac on Barns Road North (entrance to Spruce Glen property). The work party will start at 9:00am and last about 3 to 4 hours. We will meet at the cul-de-sac on Barns Road North (entrance to Spruce Glen property), unless another location is indicated on the web site. For more information contact David Ellis at 203-269-9779. Hope to see you there.
Meriden Rotary Club Plans the Third Annual Motorcycle Megaride. The 3rd Annual Meriden Rotary Motorcycle Megaride will be held on June 27th at 11:30 am in Hubbard Park, Meriden. The Ride this year will benefit the Dan M. Hunter Memorial Fund and Meriden Rotary Charities. This year the ride will be two continents as our sister Rotary Club in Meriden, England is having their Megaride on the same day. You can check them out at www.megaride.co.uk. The Meriden Motorcycle Megaride was started by Dave Liseo and Dan Hunter in 2008. That same year, Dan was killed in a tragic motorcycle accident when a motorist pulled in front of him and he was unable to stop, suffering injuries that took his life. Last year the ride raised $50,000 for the Hartford Hospital Neurotrauma Unit in Dan's name. Over 450 riders and passengers participated in last years event. The Megaride features an hour long ride through Meriden, Berlin, Kensington, New Britain and Middletown. It starts and ends in Hubbard Park. Pre registration for the event can be through application which can be found on line at www.meridenrotary.org or you can pre register on Saturday June 19th between 12-5pm at Quality time on Broad Street meriden. The Megaride has vendors who sell their wares before and after the event. There is a barbecue upon completion of the event and award, raffles and commentary from local representatives. The Dan M. Hunter Memorial Fund supports local charities and organizations that Dan Hunter as a Rotarian, Philanthropist and Business leader championed when he was alive. It also funds financial assistance to students through scholarship opportunities. The Megaride has emerged as one of Meriden Rotary's Largest Fund Raising events and it is through the generosity of the participants that this exciting event can touch the lives of so many. We look forward to those who have supported us in the past and wait in anticipation to make new friends this year. Hope never abandons you, you abandon it. ~George Weinberg
358 MAIN STREET in SOUTH MERIDEN By Robert Per a copy of the deed - Edwin Rhodin, on Nov 2nd, 1946 for $1 gave, granted, sold to District Lodge Connecticut, No 1, Vasa Order of America the certain parcel of land with improvements located in South Meriden, subject to an easement to the CL&P Co to maintain poles and power lines across the parcel. The property is as shown on a map entitled "Map of Vasa Park, the property of Vasa Order of America, District No 1, So Meriden CT. which is on file in the Meriden Town Clerk's office in Meriden, Ct. Art gave me a copy of what appears to be an outline, dated Nov 10, 1980, to apply for a building permit to construct the present pavilions (the earlier structure burnt down) and a sewer line to the City sewers in Main Street. It notes the address as 358 Main St., South Meriden with acreage of 12.45 acres. In the "Officer's reports for the 108th District Convention", Sept 26, 2009 the following is an excerpt from Art's report as Park chairman: "Our park remains a focal point for District One and the six local lodges; a shining light in the village of South Meriden-Central Connecticut. The park was established in 1946 with a vision of Vasa unity by the park founders. They cleared the land, built the original structures and began some of the park events that we continue to celebrate today. May of us recall the great crowds on Vasa Day thirty and more years ago, the children's competitive events and dancing under the lights well into the evening. Today we celebrate the same events with the same joy and enthusiasm. Perhaps not the same number of folks as thirty years ago... We miss them! They came from Sweden, established our park and events and passed on or perhaps for health reasons cannot continue at the park. However although we miss them we will continue to honor these founders and the Scandinavian traditions. Their vision is our future, joy and prosperity. We have tried to incorporate their love of Nordic customs by adding new events during the past year. The park and all District members seek to encourage and support our Grand Master in the vision to involve community and ethnic groups to support interest in Scandinavian study. In this endeavor we have chosen to establish our Scandinavian Arts and Literature room. At this time the Park's dedicated area for Arts is small, but we have room for expansion. I see the Park as a new light on Swedish study and interest; a draw upon people that can appreciate the endeavors of those who reach beyond the challenge of daily life and search out the Scandinavian heart and soul." The submission deadline for our July "Summer Fun" issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is June 28th. Email your stories, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos and celebrations to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com. If we can help in any way please call 203-235-9333. Remember the entire paper is on-line for you to enjoy at www.peoplespressnews.com
LocalMotion - Local Businesses
It’s the LOCAL Businesses and Owners like these that make a difference for Wallingford and Meriden!
Lisa from Theraputic Lifestyle Changes, LLC
Guiseppe & Dominic from Avanti Restaurant
Carol from Comfort Keepers Wallingford
Sara of Cafe Dolce
Rick Jr. from Ricks Antiques and Coins
John from Kovac’s Nationwide Insurance
Rick from Filipeks Kielbasa
Charlie from DiFranco’s
Chip from Grand Slam Sports
Page 8 June 2010
People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon Look for the answers in this issue. ACROSS 1. These "Inns" are in over 800 locations world wide and their trademark slogan is "Rest Easy". 6. The Ugly ___________, a 1958 best selling political novel. 14. Prayer ending. 16. The 1980 USA Olympic Hockey Team is an example of one of these. 17. The original Baltimore Orioles moved and became this team in 1903. 19. An owl's question. 20. A mistake. 22. A baseball catcher wears a guard on each one. 23. Writing fluid. 25. A small drink. 26. A sign of the Zodiac. 27. Beauty is ___ beauty does. 28. UFO pilot. 30. Murder solving TV series on Thursday evenings. 32. Unbiased. 34. Hair removing device. 36. To set in or back from the margin. 39. City of over 45,000 population in north central Oklahoma. 40. Number of participants needed to tango. 42. City of over 83,000 inhabitants in central Netherlands. 43. To burn slightly. 45. An animated movie. (informal) 46. A musical instrument of ancient Greece. 47. Initials of famous Chicago Cubs baseball player who hit his 500th home run in 1970. 48. Snag in a woman's nylon stocking. 49. This minus 40 across equals zero. 50. Wrath. 53. Statistical rating of a high school or college student. 55. U.S.A. tax agency. 57. A modern Florence Nightingale. (abbr.) 58. Class that is almost part of every high school curriculum. (abbr.) 59. Nickname of this state is the Keystone State. (abbr.) 60. They sold Babe Ruth to the NY Yankees in 1919. 65. Baseball official. 67. A long, loose or flowing gown. 68. A statistical measure of the effectiveness of a baseball pitcher. (abbr.) 69. A carpentry tool for forming beads on lumber. 70. Small ornaments, pieces of jewelry, etc., usually of little value. DOWN 1. Moved quickly.
2. Prayer ending. 3. Sound a kitten makes. 4. To any extent, place or degree; at all. 5. Record breaking home run hitter, he played 23 years for Atlanta and Milwaukee. 6. She was dubbed the "Long Island Lolita" by the press. 7. "Mama ____ !", hit musical based on the songs of ABBA. 8. Sea eagle. 9. A common garden tool. 10. Cake decorators. 11. A person in religious orders. 12. A famous ancient Greek storyteller. 13. Points on a compass. 18. This mid-western state's nickname is the "Buckeye State". 21. One of the areas on a baseball field. 22. Type of baseball pitch. 24. First name of bandleader who left "The Tonight Show" on May 28, 2010. 27. "‌. snug __ a bug in a rug". 29. Known as the "Splendid Splinter", ____ Williams. 31. Baltimore Oriole shortstop, Cal Ripken was nicknamed the "_____ Man" for his streak of 2,131 consecutive games played. 33. Creator of The People's Press. (first name) 35. "___ apple a day keeps the doctor away." 37. This East Coast state is nicknamed, "the Tar Heel State". (abbr.) 38. "..the older you get, ____ _______ you get". 40. A long journey including the visiting of a number of places in sequence. 41. Finished first. 44. To stop at an early or premature stage. 45. Style or prevailing tendency. 51. The color of "The Monster" at Fenway Park. 52. Largest of the continental United States. 53. Wild animals which are hunted for food, or sport or profit. 54. To dwell or to continue in a place. 56. To arrange according to kind, class, size, etc. 58. A city, town or place where ships load or unload. 59. An English Tavern. 61. A metal-bearing mineral or rock. 62. A conjunction used in negative phrases. 63. Statistical measurement of a baseball players batting performance. (abbr.) 64. To view. 66. One of the movie "Kettles".
MOVING OUTSIDE TO BEAUTIFY GROUNDS By Phyllis S. Donovan Usually I don't wait until June to start setting out my annual flower beds but it's been an unusual spring. Most years I do my annual spring cleaning one room at a time, spending a day on each room, tearing it apart, wiping down walls, washing windows , polishing floors, and decluttering as I go. I was right on schedule too until my granddaughter went off to Washington, D.C. with her class and her mother, my daughter, was at loose ends for a whole week. "I'll come down and help you hoe out Dad's office," she told me." It'll probably take us a few days but at least we can get started on it." Now I must tell you that I've done little more than dust and vac in there for longer than I want to admit because his office is sacrosanct and once I go on a neating up binge he fusses that he can never find anything in there afterward. But the rug in there had been getting very shabby and I'd long since bought a new one to replace it. This meant getting rid of the piles of software, papers and important projects he had stacked all around in there on the old rug. But if my daughter was game, so was I. We tackled the room with gusto, carting everything out of there and stacking it in the adjoining family room. She came two days and together we shamed my husband into going through piles of obsolete computer stuff and outdated files, filling several barrels of junk for the trashman in the process. Once the room was empty, we were able to do the usual cleaning routine, put down the new rug and start from scratch, going through and organizing everything that would eventually go back into that lovely clean room. It took us three weeks to evaluate everything and get the family room emptied again and back into a comfortable living space. But we did it and now I finally can move outside and start on my neglected yard and gardens. Thank goodness, I have a wonderful young man who mows the lawn regularly, trims the bushes and even prunes my trees when they need it. My only responsibility is the flower beds and once the tulips and daffies went by, the yard has been pretty lacking in flowers. But here we go again. Before I could buy my sets of annuals, I first had to clean out the old dried up spring flowers and debris from the flowerbeds and cut back the weeds in my perennial beds to assess just what I'd need to buy from the garden center. This is the fun part! I just love browsing through garden centers with a cart in tow and choosing the flowers I want to set out around the house. I usually end up buying the same kinds of plants for the same areas each year..Impatiens for the shady beds and geraniums, vinca and petunias for the sunnier spots. I'm also partial to verbena, portulaca, argeratum and salvia. Since I like a pink, orchid and white color scheme, I try to get the blue salvia instead of the more common red but this year I found white salvia which I didn't even know existed. So during the past week I've been happily setting out plants and getting muddy in the process of filling each hole I dig with water to give the plants a good start. The knees of my old garden pants have permanently mud stained knees and I'll probably have grit and mud under my fingernails until next fall. (Garden gloves are a nuisance to me. They always get soddened down with mud and I end up stripping them off and getting in the mud with my bare hands.) I still have to weed the perennial beds and find out what hasn't been strangled by weeds and what replacements I'll need before the garden centers run out of stock. Already, my favorite store where a big burly guy always brings out the heavy bags of cedar mulch and puts them in my car trunk, has run out of the brown mulch I always use. They say they'll be getting more next week and I hope they do because I don't like that new red stuff. I've set out my Japanese lantern and my heavy two-piece stone birdbath (which our resident raccoon has already tipped over into the high weeds). Slowly but surely, I'm getting there, the gardens are starting to shape up and by the Fourth of July I should have things looking the way I want them. I've finally stopped feeding the birds on our deck so the deck is now swept clean and neat. I did have a final block of suet which I put out in the suet cage I keep attached to the back drainpipe for the woodpeckers. But the other night we heard an awful racket out there on the deck and my husband turned the light on and looked out the big picture window almost nose to nose with that small raccoon who was clinging to the drainpipe trying to open the suet cage. He's not one bit afraid of us, just hopped back down on the deck and stared in at us with his funny little masked face and light fur eyebrows that give him a worried look before he ambled down the back stairs. Today the suet cage is empty so he accomplished his mission. That's it! Now I'll just put up my wind chime out there and sit back on my new deck furniture and enjoy the summer.
"Pitbulls Need Love Too" Lori Peck, Meriden Humane Society I would first like to extend a "Happy Father's Day" greeting to all of the human fathers out there. But, I would also like to thank the animal Dad's as well. Thank you for always being there for us. Wether it's the time you spend playing with your children, talking with them or just listening to them, we know you care. And for the animal Dad's, thanks for playing with us, refilling the holes we dig and keeping that fence secure around the yard. Your great, keep up the good work! Getting back to my regular article. If I've heard it once, I've heard it a million times, "All this shelter has is Pitbulls!" Well, even if this were the case, don't they deserve good homes as well? Most of our Pitbulls are very sweet, lovable dogs that were just tossed outside like yesterday's trash. Is that what we want them to feel like? I will tell you from experience, that there have been Chihuahua's more fierce than some of our Pit's. I think it's time for people to stop hating them and start loving them. Find out for yourself and not just what you hear about the breed. You'll be happily surprised! We also have many Pitbull mixes as well. So if your still not convinced about the breed, then come visit a mixed breed. Some of them are, Tuesday, a Shepherd/Pit mix, Bill, a Shar Pei/Pit mix, Rocks, a Lab/Pit mix, Dexter, a Lab/Pit mix, Morgan, a Whippet/Pit mix, Destiny, a Lab/Pit mix and Salena, a Spaniel/Pit mix. It is also indeed Kitten season and we have many to choose from. So, come on down to visit and fill out an application. We would love to send you home with a kitty as soon as you are approved. So don't just think about it, come in today and find your new furry friend. Please view our website at www.meridenhs.petfinder.com for events, to make a donation for an animal or to view our animals. You can visit us at 311 Murdock Ave, or call us at (203)238-3650. Please don't wait, our shelter and ACO are filled to capacity with wonderful animals to adopt now! See you at the shelter.
Join the Fun! Summer Daisy Girl Scout Programs Girls entering grades K-1 who are new to Girl Scouts are invited to our Girl Scout Summer Program! Girls, along with their parents/ guardians, will have an opportunity to meet new friends, learn about Girl Scouting, and earn their first pin! This 4 week session will take place on Thursdays, July 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 6:30-7:30. The fee for this program is $20, includes supplies, pins and certificates. For more information and location information, please contact Melissa McLeod at (203) 239-2922 ext. 3366 or mmcleod@gsofct.org. I look forward to hearing from you! Children need your presence more than your presents. --Jesse Jackson
Page 9 June 2010
LEARN HOW TO SWIM IN YOUR OWN HOME! The Wallingford Family YMCA Aquatics Staff will come to you this summer. All you need is a swimming pool and a little time…..The YMCA will send a swim instructor to your home to teach your children and/or your neighbor's children. This package will include four classes that are forty five minutes long. Classes can be scheduled once or twice a week. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at (203) 269-4497; ext. 20 or lhoover@wallingfordymca.org
Recognized for Service!
Wallingford Public Health Services Eloise Hazelwood, Director of Health 203-294-2065 Thank you for the opportunity to inform Wallingford residents about some of the Community Health Services offered by contract with MidState Medical Center and VNA Health Care, starting in July. The basic purpose of providing Comprehensive Maternal and Child Health Services for Wallingford residents is to assist residents by providing education, information and referral to medical care with the goal of establishing a medical home for comprehensive care. So what does that mean and how do we plan to move forward starting this July? There are several assistance programs available to residents, based on the income of the family. We understand that the current economy has left many residents in a difficult situation and folks may now need additional help. The Well Child Clinics are designed to provide vaccine for children aged birth through 18 years (or high school completion) that are un/underinsured. The clinic provides an assessment of height/weight and hemoglobin (to determine if children have enough iron in their blood and to assess their development); hearing and vision; blood lead screening; TB skin test; and school and sports entrance physicals. Parents will be required to bring proof of income for the initial screening and staff will provide required referrals, if eligible for programs such as HUSKY medical insurance. The ultimate goal again is to establish a "medical home" so the child is seen by the same medical provider for both sick care and well care. The Community Health Center located in Meriden is the area health center for Wallingford residents, no age restriction. Contact them directly at 203-237-2229. The MidState Medical "Well Child Clinics" are scheduled for July 22nd and 29th, and will be held in Wallingford at the Center Street location. Appointments will begin the end of June. Additional information including the direct number to call to schedule an appointment will be available soon. Nutritional Services will be provided through the Meriden Health Department, Women Infants and Children (WIC) program at the same Center Street location in Wallingford as the Well Child Clinic or residents may schedule an appointment directly at the Meriden Health Department (203-630-4245). WIC is a federal program that provides education and healthy foods to eligible participants (income and nutritional need based for pregnant women, mothers up to one year post pregnancy if breast-feeding, or up to six months if not breast feeding, and children under five years old). In addition, the State Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) is available, no age restriction, to assist in the purchase of food; applications are available at the Wallingford Youth and Social Services (203-294-2175). *The Well Child and WIC certifications were previously held at the Wallingford VNA. Community Health Screenings will be conducted periodically throughout the year. The first one is scheduled as a family health fair and will be held at the Wallingford Library on July 12th, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. More information to come! Community Mental Health Services are provided by the Wallingford Youth and Social Services Department and contracted with Rushford Center. The goal is to assist Wallingford residents through education and support groups, short term counseling and intervention services, contact them at 203-294-2175 for more information. Childhood Dental Services are available by appointment for financially qualified Wallingford residents age 2-18 yrs (or completion of high school) and include dental screening, cleaning and sealants by contract with the Wallingford VNA (203-269-1475). The Community Health Center of Meriden also provides full dental care, including fillings and extractions, to financially qualified Wallingford residents (203-237-2229). The Wallingford Health Department wants you to know that your health is important to us!
The Joke Was On Dad The Wallingford Rotary awarded it's 23rd annual "Non Rotarian Citizen of the Year Award" to Julie Good for her many years of volunteer service to Wallingford.The Rotary also recognized two students from each of the Wallingford High Schools for demonstrating, through their volunteer service, Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self. They were presented with a "Student of the Year" award. Students are: Lyman Hall HS - Noah Morgenstein and Sarah VanBuiten, Mark T. Sheehan HS - Sarah Laplante and Andrew Pegg, and Choate Rosemary Hall HS - Sara Kirshbaum and Andrew SouzaYear. The awards were presented at a luncheon at Brother's Restaurant on June 2nd. In first picture, Rotary President Craig Fishbein with students Noah Morgenstein, Sarah VanBuiten, Sara Kirshbaum, Andrew Souza, Sarah Laplante and Andrew Pegg. In second picture,President Craig Fishbein and Citizen of the Year, Julie Good
ROCK OUT! HAVE FUN!
PLAY DRUMS!
DRUM LESSONS Attention Parents I give your child focus & confidence! Students are welcome from beginner to advanced by Jon Peckman, author of the nationally renowned book “Picture Yourself Drumming.” Lessons are held conviently in the center of Wallingford.
Call 203.537.4112 or visit www.myspace.com/jonpeckman
by Janet Althouse Several years ago when my children were teenagers, and when the first walkman cassette players were new and very popular, my youngest daughter, Patti got one as a Christmas present. Her father, not really being familiar with this new technology, was in awe of the way you could put a small tape in this instrument, put small ear phones in your ears and sit back and listen to music like you were there in the midst of this huge orchestra. He loved the old Big Band music, so we got him a tape. One day as he sat tuned in and was sitting back directing the music with his hands in the air and singing along to "Chattanooga Shoeshine Boy", unbeknownest to him, Patti, was taping him. He was just laughing and having a good time not knowing what she was doing. But he was soon to find out. Her dad, just happened to be the principal at the local High School and he was also known to like to joke around and tease our children and some of the other students. So---Patti thought it would be great to let some of the kids at school listen to their illustrious principal. She took it to school and played it for several students and teachers before he realized just what she was doing. But you have to give him credit, he did not get mad, he did not call Patti into the "Principal's" office and everyone had a good laugh over the whole thing. So, the moral to the story is: be careful when your children are looking like they are doing one thing, because they just may be setting you up for a joke. Her dad has been gone several years now, but we can still enjoy remembering the day that "the joke was on dad." HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL THE DADS If you talk to your children, you can help them to keep their lives together. If you talk to them skillfully, you can help them to build future dreams. --Jim Rohn
Page 10 June 2010
Snap, Crackle, BOOM! by Craig Fishbein Growing up, the Fourth of July was always a big deal in my family. It was the one of those obligatory holidays that you could count on seeing every relative that you had ever heard mentioned at any other time of the year. We would go to my grandparent's beach house in Branford, relax/play on the beach during the day, and "Gramma Fish" would make everyone dinner as the afternoon waned. At the end of the day, most of us would travel back to our homes in Wallingford. Sometimes the Wallingford Fireworks were on that night, and sometimes they were not, but it always seems that, for all that I can remember, year after year, we never missed Wallingford's Fourth of July Fireworks. Our Wallingford is a town that I describe to others as being, "quaint." Even though we have ushered in a Walmart, a Home Depot, a Lowe's, and soon Connecticut's first Sonic, Wallingford still retains a certain amount of New England charm. When you get right down to it, we are a small, folksy, family town, and I would have it no other way. We have a community newspaper (the People's Press), a Farmer's Market, a historic and world-class shooting facility, a vibrant downtown area with many family owned businesses and restaurants, acres and acres of townowned open space, the lowest electric rates around, and a mayor who's a throwback to a time well before I was born. …and then there's the fireworks. As a youngster, fireworks were (to me) only supposed to be employed to recognize the Fourth of July. To me, the Fourth of July was dinner in Branford, and fireworks in Wallingford. Simple. But, as I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate the Wallingford Fourth of July Fireworks for other reasons. Someday, take the time to get a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Read it. Then think about the setting in which that vibrant document was written. Then read it again. The frustration and angst will just drip off the page. The Committee of Five saying (in effect), "We're mad as hell, and we aren't gonna take it anymore." To me, that is what the Fourth of July (better known as Independence Day) recognizes. Our ancestors breaking away from a situation that was just too intolerable for them to continue to deal with any longer. The Declaration of Independence begins: "When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent
respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation." The words above you have probably seen someplace before, they are probably of some interest but, put in the context above, and as you read on with the successive paragraphs, the language becomes spine-tingling. To me, as an adult, Wallingford's Fourth of July Fireworks celebrate the gumption of our forefathers (and foremothers) in doing what they believed (and knew) to be right. Our national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner," tells the story of Francis Scott Key who witnessed the British bombing of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. While his original poem was much longer than the truncated version that we have come to know as our anthem, a major portion of the lyric says: "…And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there; O! say does that star-spangled banner yet wave…" This is another reason for my enjoying the Wallingford Fourth of July Fireworks. To me, they symbolize the triumph that Mr. Key must have felt when the smoke cleared and the flag remained. The final reason that I enjoy the Wallingford Fourth of July Fireworks is that they are about family and community. It is the only Wallingford event that people come from all around (some even from other towns) and enjoy together for free. There are no tickets sold…, no admission required. Many thousands attend on the Sheehan hillside or the Moran fields. People lean against their cars, and sit on curbs. Many people even sit in the privacy of their own backyards and enjoy for free. By now you know that Jason Zandri and I have been successful in raising the money to have the Wallingford Fourth of July Fireworks again this year. I hope that, with the above, I have been able to explain some of my reasoning behind the fundraising effort to save the event. Additionally, in my humble opinion, in this economy, it is key that communities and families have something wholesome to enjoy. But, without all of the donations it would never have been possible. So, while people stop me all the time and comment on what a great thing we have done, or express their thanks for our efforts, I just have to turn that around and say THANK YOU to all that donated. Without your generous donations (which ranged from mere pennies to thousands of dollars) it would never have been possible. I thank you all once again and ask you to please enjoy the fireworks, for whatever personal reason(s) that you may have.
Lead Poisoning Prevention and Blood Lead Screening The ONLY way to know if your child is exposed to Lead is by a Blood Lead Test. All children must be screened at age 12 months and again at age 24 months for lead poisoning. injest
Any child between 25-72 months of age, who has not previously been screened, shall also have a blood lead screen. All children 6-72 months of age in HUSKY Part A Medicaid must be assessed for risk. Call your medical provider to schedule a Blood Lead Test Call the Wallingford Health Dept at 203-294-2065 for more information.
DAD-----POP POP
by Cathy Short The name "Pop Pop" came from my beautiful daughter, Jessica, who is now in Heaven with Pop Pop. Then my other beautiful daughter, Tanya, started using it. So, he was never "Grandpa, but always "Pop Pop". His name was Lewis Reynolds and he was a wonderful father and Pop Pop. He was funny, kind and compassionate. He would actually sit on the living room rug with 6-year old Tanya and play "Wizard of Oz" with all the little Oz figurines. Tanya was six years old when Jessica died and Pop Pop helped Tanya and me get through it. He was a strong, moral man. But when he got silly, you just had to laugh, and hard. His eyeglasses would always slide down his nose and Tanya would always say, "Ah, ah!" Lewis Reynolds and his wife, Priscilla, raised six children in the crazy sixties and early seventies. This was no easy task. My name is Cathy Short and I am the only daughter out of six kids. I have so many fond memories of my dad, like when he would come over the house with ice cream and milk shakes after I had a wisdom tooth pulled. He loved Jackie Gleason and I always watched "The Honeymooners" with him. He would walk around saying "how sweet it is", one of Jackie Gleason's favorite lines. He made the best soft boiled eggs; always perfect. His spirituality kept him going. He was a devout believer in the Bible and listened and taped constantly from his favorite Christian radio station. His favorite speaker was Bob Cook and his favorite quote from Bob Cook was, "Walk with the King today and be a blessing." He was a blessing and always will be to the many lives he touched. He was a wonderful father and grandfather to all his family. On Father's Day I will be thinking of him and remembering what a strong man he really was At the same time he had a marvelous sense of humor. You can't beat the both of them together. HAPPY FATHER'S DAY In memory of Lewis Reynolds Love, Cathy
The Second Annual Wallingford Vikings Golf Tournament
On Friday, June 25, 2010 it will be a 12:30 PM Shotgun Start and registration starts at 11:00 AM. Lunch will be served until 12:15PM with a Reception & Dinner following the tournament at 5:30 PM Tournament and dinner will be held at The Tradition Golf Club located at 37 Harrison Road in Wallingford. The phone number is 203-269-6023. Price is $125.00 Individual Golfer Donation which includes: 18 Holes of Golf includes lunch, cart, gift and dinner Traditional Scramble Format Hole in one chance to win a CAR Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin and other on course contests Raffle & Golf Prizes at Dinner If not a golfer then attend the dinner later that day for Reception & Dinner Only: $30.00 Adults $15.00 Children/Teenagers All Donations go towards the support of the Wallingford Vikings Football and Cheerleading teams. If interested or to register please contact: PJ O'Malley, President 203-627-7195 or Diane Chadderton 203-6279282
Page 11 June 2010
Celebrations Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com. It's FREE to share any celebration in The People's Press. The deadline for our July "Summer Fun" issue is June 28th! If we can help in any way please call 203-235-9333.
CELEBRATIONS
Daddy, Happy Father's Day, Love, Evan & Garrett
CELEBRATIONS
The Wallingford Rotary held its 21st Annual Jim Backes Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, May 24th at The Farms Country Club. Participants included sportscaster Rich Coppola, and Wallingford Mayor Dickinson and Meriden Mayor Michael Rohde made an appearance.. All proceeds generated from this event are credited to the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Rotary, and will be used to benefit the Wallingford community
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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 Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center! The 40th annual "Special Day for Special People" will be held in Hubbard Park on Saturday, June 12 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The free picnic in the park for Meriden senior citizens 60 and over features hot dogs, chips, popcorn, soda, watermelon and ice cream served by student volunteers and funded by contributions from Meriden businesses, clubs, civic organizations and the Meriden City Council. More than 300 people attend the picnic each year and all Meriden seniors are invited to attend Special Day! The Meriden Antique Veterans will open the program with a flag raising ceremony followed by a welcome by Mayor Mike Rohde. Entertainment will be provided throughout the day by Vinnie Carr, popular keyboard player and vocalist who knows all of your favorite songs! Free bingo with prizes will start at 12:30 pm under the pavilion. For information on transportation to Hubbard Park call the Senior Center Mini-Bus Office at (203) 237-3338. Be sure not to miss this year's Special Day for Special People on Saturday, June 12! The next AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center will be on Wednesday, July 21 and Friday, July 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. People can sign-up in the front office or by calling us at (203) 237-0066. The program will be limited to the first 30 people who register so signup today! Senior Center staff are continuing to take applications for the Rent Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. To be eligible you must have been 65 or over as of December 31, 2009 or be enrolled in Social Security Disability. Proof of 2009 income must be presented, including a copy of your 2009 income tax return, if filed, Social Security 1099, and all other income. Income limits are $32,300 for a single person and $39,500 for a married couple. Proof of rent and utilities must also be presented. Applications are taken Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon and 1:00 to 4:00 PM on a first come, first served basis. Congratulations to Senior Center Volunteers of the Year Jennie Padick and Dorothy Ritchie who were honored at our Volunteer Recognition Day on April 21. Both Jennie and Dotty have been long term volunteers here and are very deserving of this special recognition. We thank you for all you do for the Senior Center and our members! The 2010 Meriden Senior Citizens' Award Scholarship of $500 was awarded to Steven Kusek, a graduating senior from Wilcox Technical High School, in a ceremony on Wednesday, June 2 at the Senior Center. Steven will attend Central Connecticut State University in the fall majoring in Criminal Justice. Since 1989 the Senior Center has awarded $11,700 in scholarships to graduating high school students in Meriden! 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
Page 12 June 2010
Meriden Health Department June News and Events
Twilight Tunes 2010
Bicycle Helmets Available at the Meriden Health Department Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air and share time as a family. The Meriden Health Department wants everyone to be safe - we are selling Bell brand bicycle helmets for $7.50 each. Both adult and child sizes are available, and there are many different styles and colors to choose from. The helmets are available for purchase Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. Please call the Clinic office at 203-630-4234 before you stop by to check on availability. Be safe always wear a helmet when riding a bike, no matter where you are or how short the ride! West Nile Virus: A Reminder To "Fight the Bite" this Summer Summer has officially arrived, and the Meriden Health Department would like to remind residents to take protective measures against West Nile virus, an illness caused by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on birds that carry the virus. Although anyone can be infected with the virus, people over 50 years of age have the highest risk of serious illness. No one likes getting bitten by bugs, especially mosquito bites. Here are some tips to avoid mosquito bites: o Minimize time outdoors at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. o Be sure door and window screens are tight fitting and in good repair. o Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors during dusk and dawn, or when in mosquito-infested areas such as wetlands or woods. o Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors. o Consider using mosquito repellent when it is necessary to be outdoors and always use them according to label instructions. The most effective repellents contain DEET or Picaridin. o When using DEET, use the lowest concentration effective for the time spent outdoors (for example, 6% lasts approximately 2 hours and 20% for 4 hours) and wash treated skin when returning indoors. Do not apply under clothing, to wounds or irritated skin, the hands of children, or to infants less than 2 months of age. One way to prevent mosquito bites is to reduce the amount of the bugs around your home. Here are some tips: o Dump water-holding containers, such as ceramic pots, used tires, tire swings often, or get rid of them all together. o Drill holes in the bottom of containers, such as those used for recycling. o Clean clogged roof gutters. o Change water in bird baths on a weekly basis. o Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, and when not in use, pool covers. Drain any collected water from pool covers on a weekly basis. For more information on West Nile virus call the Meriden Health Department at 203-630-4226 or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.
Wednesday evenings on the Wallingford Parade Grounds Sponsored by Wallingford Parks & Recreation and Stop and Shop Supermarkets from 7:00-8:30pm. Wednesday July 7, 2010 - Funk Brokers Band The primary objective of Funk Brokers Inc. is to inject the songs you know with bodacious amounts of groove, funk, soul and vibe. Agents of the FBI pledge to protect you from stale, notefor-note renditions of tunes you've heard so many times. Our detectives uncover the best tunes then put a funky spin on them. Wednesday July 14, 2010 - Disco Inferno Band The music of KC and The Sunshine Band, The Village People, Gloria Gaynor, Donna Summer, Kool & the Gang and more. The parade grounds will be turned into a Boogie Wonderland. 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.
June/July Events at the Augusta 2010 Thursday, July 1st---The Augusta Curtis Concert Band will be performing a pre-4th of July concert in the Rosa Ponselle Garden adjacent to the Center at 7pm. Concert is free; bring you lawn chair, blanket, and picnic basket to enjoy this wonderful evening of your favorite concert band tunes with some patriotic flare!! Sunday, July 11th---JC Music Vocal & Instrumental Recital at the Center in the glass room. Tickets $5.00, and enjoy and afternoon of the student's of JC Music performing. 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
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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.
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Page 13 June 2010
CELEBRATIONS
Happy Father’s Day! Thank you for being so great! Love, Jake
CELEBRATIONS
Happy Father’s Day! Love, Baxter
CELEBRATIONS
Happy First Father’s Day! Love, Mikey
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JUNE EVENTS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY MOVIES AT THE MERIDEN LIBRARY - On Saturday, June 19 at 2:00 pm, the newest movie version of Lewis Carroll's book will be featured. Come and enjoy the free movies on our large screen. FREE COMPUTER CLASSES AT MERIDEN LIBRARY The following free computer classes will be held at Meriden Public Library. Basic Computers - Monday, June 7 and Monday, June 21 at 6:00 to 6:45 pm. Email - Monday, June 14 and June 28 at 6:00 to 6:45 pm; Saturday, June 19 at 9:30 to 10:15 am. Internet - Saturday, June 26 at 9:30 to 10:15 am. Class size is limited. Contact the library at (203) 238-2346 or (203) 630-6349 to register for any class. WRITERS NETWORK AT MERIDEN LIBRARY - Meriden Public Library will host a Writers Network group on Wednesday, June 9 at 7:00 p.m. in the Griffin Room and Wednesday, June 23 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. THURSDAY LUNCH TIME BOOK CLUB AT MERIDEN LIBRARY - Meriden Public Library's lunch time book club concludes on Thursday, June 10 at noon in the Seminar Room. Bring your bag lunch and enjoy some great discussions. All are welcome. The book that will be discussed is Lit: a memoir by Mary Karr. Copies are available at the Meriden Library. Contact the Community Services at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to join SCRABBLE IN THE SUMMER AT MERIDEN LIBRARY - The Meriden Public Library will be holding Scrabble sessions during the summer on Mondays at 2:00 pm in the Friends Room. The dates are as follows: June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, August 9 & 23. Come to practice or learn the game. Everyone is invited. If you have any questions about this or other programs at the library, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email us at comsvc@hotmail.com or stop by at any session. FATTY LIVER INFORMATION PROGRAM JUNE 16 The American Liver Foundation will be presenting their FLIP (Fatty Liver Information Program) at Meriden Public Library on Wednesday, June 16 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room. This program is a national education program targeted to the general public, as well as liver disease patients. FLIP facilitates a greater understanding of the liver and its functions, discusses the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and offers a multi-disciplinary approach for maximizing liver health. Michelle Obama has set a program into place on childhood obesity. The CDC tells us that 25% of the American population has Fatty Liver and over 10% of our school aged children are also affected. A mid level medical professional will be available to answer questions. The American Liver Foundation's hope is that after participating in FLIP, participants will have a greater awareness and understanding of the liver's importance and will take action to improve their liver health. This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library's web page at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to reserve a seat. ASTROLOGY PROGRAM JUNE 22 - Meriden Public Library will be hosting Dian Bustillo on Tuesday, June 22 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room when she presents her program called "Simple Astrology." This program will introduce you to the planets, signs, and houses - the real basics of astrology.. With just a few simple tools, you can examine the basics of your life and learn just how okay you really are. Dian Bustillo is a practicing astrologer and teacher. From her Meriden location, she tele-consults with clients across the country, teaches beginning astrology, and provides teleclasses for intermediate and advanced students. She also gives lectures for private groups and at conferences in the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut area. Her astrological philosophy is influenced by three basics: consistency, simplicity, and cycles. This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library's web page at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to reserve a seat. LEGO CLUB JUNE 24 Meriden Public Library will have its next Lego Club event on Thursday, June 24 at 2:00 pm. Children ages 6 through 12 are invited to bring their imagination and build on this month's theme - "Life Underwater". Completed projects will be put on display in the library. The library will provide Legos for all children who attend. Sign up in the Children's Library. 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 JUNE 25 The Teen Anime Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Friday, June 25 at 3:00 pm in the Griffin Room. We will be watching one of the newest Gundam series. In world filled with war and devastation, a private military organization called Celestial Being uses machines called Gundams to save humanity from itself. This program is for teens age 13-18. Snacks and drinks will be provided. 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. COUPONING CLASS JUNE 29 Would you like to know how to stretch your dollars at the store? Join Gina Juliano on Tuesday, June 29 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library for her couponing class and learn how to use coupons to save money. The class size is limited, so registration is required. Participants are asked to bring in the coupon inserts from the newspaper. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library's web page at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to reserve a seat.
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Page 14 June 2010
Father's Day By Will Three things a dad should do are being nice, play with his kids, and not smoke. All dads should be nice. They shouldn't yell unless his kids are being really bad. My dad only yells if my brother and I are being really bad. Dads should occasionally take their kids to fun places. Fun dads are nice dads, like my dad. They help their kids with their homework. My dad helps me. Dads should play with their kids. My dad plays baseball and basketball with me. Dads should play sports with their kids so they stay healthy. Sometimes my dad plays on my trampoline with me. He plays board games with me. Sometimes he plays video games with me. Dads shouldn't smoke. Smoking can ruin your life. You might have to breathe through tubes. You can get lung cancer. You can get mouth cancer. Nobody should smoke. My dad smokes but he's still a great dad. That's just one bad thing about him. Those are three things that all dads should do. Those traits make a dad awesome. Awesome like my dad.
Father's Day By Timothy My dad is the best in the world. The three things are he is cool, funny and the best. He does cool things for my family. He's a rock star, but he's not. He is cool because he does cool tricks. The cool tricks are the moonwalk. He is also cool because he lets us buy movies. Some of the movies are spiders, ninja turtles and others. He is good at almost everything. He is also funny that he can make us laugh out loud. He is like a clown. He makes us hop up and down like we were bunnies. He talks funny. He makes us change my face red. He is best. He is the best because he help us with our homework. This is great because when I don't understand my homework he help me. It is the best. I think I should and here right know. My dad is cool, funny and the best. You rock dad. You rock with peace.
My AWESOME DAD By Gavin I think my dad is the best dad in the world because he is awesome, cool, and radical. He always plays with me. His name is Matt. Matt always brings me to cool places. 2 years ago he took me out of day care early and brought me to Lake Coundpounce for my birthday. He also brought me to laser tag last year for being good. Then a month or two later he brought me to any restaurant I wanted for helping clean my yard. I went to the McDonalds with the playscape in Wallingford, CT. I got a Mcflurry, 2 large fries, a cheeseburger with no meat no condiments, and a large coke. It was really good, and I had a lot of fun. He also is awesome because he helps my mom around the house and he helps pay the bills. If it weren't for him my mom, sister and I would have hardly any food and a horrible house. He does a lot of things around the house like cleaning, cooking, washing dishes, painting, buying appliances that we need for around the house and babysitting us when my mom is gone. When my mom went to Utah (twice) for her job for a week Matt watched me and my little sister. He also does fun things with my mom, little sister and me. Sometimes we go to Chuck E. Cheese's and other times we go camping. This summer he is paying part of my birthday party bill. It's going to be at Lake Quassy. I went there on Mother's Day, It was fun. My favorite ride was the pirate ship. It was my mom's favorite, too. Matt is usually nice to everyone in my family, but when he's not it's because someone is being mean or bad. Matt is an awesome dad. And that's all to it.
The Thirteenth Annual Town of Wallingford 'Doherty Cup' Golf Championship 2010
This year's event will be held on Tuesday, July 6th at the Wallingford Country Club. The popular tournament raises monies for the Doherty Scholarship Fund., a scholarship that was created in 1997 upon the untimely death of David J. Doherty, a popular town councilman and Sheehan High School Civics teacher. The Doherty Scholarship Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing two $2,500 scholarships to eligible Sheehan High School Seniors and donating $1,000 annually, to the Wallingford YMCA's Youth and Government Program, David established at the Y many years ago. The Doherty family, which hosts the tournament, extends the invitation to all to come and support its event and enjoy a day of comrade and fun! The tournament not only has its traditional individual medal play championship, but also features a four-person team scramble event championship! The day is highlighted with special events and prizes, and features our special Doherty Cup presenter, Mayor William Dickinson. For more information on the tournaments and a copy of this year's brochure, please contact John and Elaine Doherty at 203.265.7349.
Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament
The biggest and premier community tennis tournament in New England is right here in CT! The 6th annual Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament is scheduled for June 12th - 20th. The venue in 2010 will be the Cheshire Academy tennis complex. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit Wallingford YMCA youth programs and the Winton S. Filipek Sr. scholarship fund. All players receive a tournament t-shirt, players handbook, players gift bag, ticket to "Breakfast at Wimbledon" and tennis balls & water for every match. Prizes are awarded to 1st & 2nd place in every division. The 9-day event in 2010 will feature: 21 divisions for all levels, a Free Kids & HS Clinic & Fun Day (at capacity in 2009), 5 high school divisions, a junior boys & girls round-robin and special events daily. In 2009, the event drew 592 entries. THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT! Please direct any questions to Wint Filipek Jr. wrfilipek@hotmail.com 860-621-5655 Apply NOW @: www.ymcafilipektennis.com
Sheehan Class of 85 Reunion Planned Attention Mark T. Sheehan High School Class of 1985 grads: The 25th class reunion is planned for Friday, November 26, 2010. Additional information can be found online at: www.MTS85.info. Alumni are encouraged to register for reunion updates and information while visiting the site. Our 25th reunion is coming and we still need to get the word out to about half of our fellow graduates. Would you take a few minutes to look over the list of missing alums under the "Missing Classmates," tab on www.MTS85.info to see if you know where any of these folks are? If you have their contact information, would you please call, email, or write them and encourage them to register at www.MTS85.info? Maybe you know their relatives, or any other connection? Even if they don't think they'll attend our 25th Reunion in November, it would be great to have them register to stay up to date on the Reunion and on other Class of '85 news. Thanks for your help, and don't hesitate to contact any of the Reunion Team Members (look for the listing on www.MTS85.info) with any questions. Early bird reunion registration information is posted on the website (http://www.facebook.com/l/6d410;www.MTS85.info) NOW!
Local Legislators Honored by CT Early Childhood Alliance
The CT Early Childhood Alliance recognized 57 state legislators for their engagement on issues related to early childhood on May 26, as part of its annual "Children's Champions" event. From the central portion of Connecticut, several legislators were honored, including: Rep. Christopher Donovan (DMeriden), Rep. Cathy Abercrombie (D-Meriden), Rep. Elizabeth Esty (D-Cheshire), Rep. Mary Fritz (DCheshire/Wallingford), Rep. John Geragosian (D-New Britain), Rep. Gail Hamm (D-East Hampton), Rep. Matthew Lesser (D-Middletown), Rep. Sandy Nafis (D-Newington), Sen. Sam Caligiuri (D-16th District), Sen. Paul Doyle (D9th District) and Sen. Tom Gaffey (D- 13th District). "We wanted to thank the legislators who have been a positive force for early childhood, by engaging programs in their communities and supporting early childhood here at the Capitol," said Ann Pratt, the CT Early Childhood Alliance's executive director. House Speaker Christopher Donovan (D-Meriden) was chosen to receive the Alliance's "Legislator of the Year" award. He has been a consistent champion for Connecticut's children this year, forming the "Task Force on Children in the Recession" and has shown unwavering leadership in supporting children. "We know when our kids see a bright future, and when they're excited about the world, it makes our world that much more exciting," said Donovan. Special Recognition was given to four legislators - Rep. Cathy Abercrombie (D-Meriden), Rep. Beth Bye (D-West Hartford), Rep. Karen Jarmoc (D-Enfield) and Rep. Diana Urban (D-North Stonington) for the tremendous leadership role they played in elevating the importance of early childhood issues. The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance, a group of organizations and individuals committed to improving developmental outcomes in the areas of learning, health, safety and economic security for children ages birth to eight. Member organizations provide care and education for nearly 20,000 children. The Alliance's goal is for all children born in Connecticut to enter kindergarten healthy, eager to learn, and ready for school success.
3rd Annual Music for a Summer's Eve Scholarship Concert Saturday, June 19, 2010 at 6:00 PM-9:00 PM Enjoy this Gala 3rd Annual concert for both the Central CT Civic Youth Orchestra and the Q. Walter Peabody Foundation. Professional musicians who give their time and create a wonderful program. For more information contact Katrina Axelrod at 203-235-7445
HOLY TRINITY PARISH BAZAAR
This year's Bazaar will take place June 7-12, in the church parking lot at 84 North Colony Street (Rt. 5), Wallingford. NEW THIS YEAR: Wristbands to Ride-All-Rides will be available EACH NIGHT of the bazaar, and at the Saturday MATINEE. Wristbands are only sold on the midway during bazaar hours. However, advance sale of sheets of bazaar ride tickets, and food tickets, will be available at the church, after all weekend Masses (Sat.4 PM; Sun. 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 AM) until June 6. Come join us for Tufano Amusement rides for adults and kids; food specials; games of chance & skill; 50/50 drawings; and our main bazaar drawing on Saturday evening, June 12. It's full of excitement...don't miss the fun...There's something here for everyone at the Holy Trinity Annual Bazaar, celebrating our 40th year !!! Bazaar hours will be Monday through Thursday, 6-10 PM; Friday 6-11 PM; Saturday Matinee, 2-5 PM; and Saturday Evening 5-10 PM. Call 269-8791 for sponsorship opportunities or for more information on the bazaar.
Wallingford Senior Center presents Second Annual Cruise Night
The Wallingford Senior Center and BCI Financial will co-sponsor a series of Cruise Nights, featuring vintage cars, on June 17, August 12 and September 2. Cruise Nights will be located in the Senior Center Parking Lot at 238 Washington St. Wallingford from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Cars built before 1979 are welcome to participate, trophies will be awarded to the top 3 cars. This FREE event is open to the public. Refreshments will be available for purchase. No pets allowed. No rain date. A Sock Hop with musical entertainment by Randy Holloway, will be located indoors on June 17, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Stop by and enjoy music of the 50's/60's. For additional information, please call 203-265-7753.
A Musical Afternoon - Sunday, June 13th, 4pm Immanuel Lutheran Church and All Saints Episcopal Church/Todos Los Santos will join together for a joint recital/musical afternoon. Piano music by Chopin will be played by Corbin, the Immanuel Music Director. Classical guitar pieces will be performed by Tito, from All Saints. Choral music will also be performed. Refreshments will be served. A donation of $10 is requested. Proceeds will support the Lutheran World Hunger Appeal and the Ministry of All Saints Parish. The churches are co-located at 164 Hanover St. Meriden. (parking in Cook Ave. lot) Please join us and bring a Friend. For more info email us at office@immanuelmeriden.com or call 203-2381248. LocalMotion - Local Business! To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment.
Senior Center Garden
The Southwest Conservation District Executive Director Roman Mrozinski developed and maintains the Agnes B Campos Memorial Bird and Butterfly Garden at the Wallingford Senior Center along with staff and family. Wallingford Garden Club members Lillian Weaver, Carole Golitko and Ellie Tessmer often assist with the maintenance program. Recently the Quinnipiac University held a Big Event with major clean up of the bird and butterfly garden. Some students worked cleaning the butterfly garden by weeding and raking. Other students along with TKE fraternity brothers tackled the massive cleanup of knot weed in the area to be the bird garden. Roman and Gretchen Mrozinski provided lunch for the group. Bill Viola, director of the Wallingford Senior Center organized the Quinnipiac University group. Thanks to all. Team captain Kendall Keil with Benjamin Segil, Rebecca Turco, Katie Bosse, Megan Kennedy, Brett Angevine, Zachary Wiegand, Danielle DeMarco, Marissa Bayerl. And special thanks to the TKE team who came to help after planting the uptown/downtown baskets and barrels with Wallingford Center Inc and Wallingford Garden Club. Thanks also to Henry McCully of Wallingford Public Works for hauling away 2 massive piles of debris and leaving wood chip mulch for the garden. Photo by Ellie Tessmer of the Quinnipiac University 'Big Event' with Roman and Gretchen Mrozinski.
Wallingford Vikings
The Wallingford Vikings give back to the Community!!! You may have heard of them, you may have not, but if you have ever seen these girls...you would definitely remember them...because you would have heard them coming from miles away. They are the spirit and future of our town...and they are just as cute as can be. They are the Wallingford Vikings Cheerleaders...and boy, do they know how to get a crowd going. On Sunday May 2nd the Wallingford Viking Cheerleaders joined in the ASRC Walk for Autism at Choate Rosemary Hall HS, leading the walk, as they cheered on the 1200+ walkers every step of the way. Throughout the 3.2 miles, in the 80+ degrees, through the beautiful historical streets of Wallingford these young girls ranging between the ages of 6-13 cheered their hearts out with smiles on their faces, and love in their hearts...happier than could be to be asked to be a part of such a wonderful day. The Wallingford Vikings Board members would like to take this opportunity to thank Julie Hipp for giving our girls the chance to be a part of such a wonderful cause, we can't wait for next years walk, and hope we can be a part of it again. If you are interested in learning more about the Wallingford Viking Organization, or would like to sign up your son or daughter for the 2010 football season, please visit out website at www.wallingfordvikings.com for more information...see you on the field!!!
My mother Pauline Whitehead Bencivengo
Page 15 June 2010
Her Eulogy by Deanna Bencivengo My mother Pauline Whitehead Bencivengo was born on July 21, 1936 in Paigeton, West Virginia. She was an authentic Coal Miners Daughter. One of fourteen children my mom knew what family was about. My brothers and I were always intrigued of her stories of growing up in a poor coal mining town. The home she grew up in had no indoor plumbing when she was little and they raised their own pigs for meat and had a garden the family was responsible for. There was one road that ran through town (literally one road, I have been there) and everyone in town knew each other. She would tell us about my Aunts and Uncles and how much family tradition meant to her. She instilled these values in us from a very early age. My mom stayed home with us when we were young while my Dad worked full time and she would work nights and weekends to help out. I have fond memories of my mom always being around for us when we were little. I can remember going to her favorite little diner the BBQ and getting the best bacon cheese burgers in the world!! My mother was an avid sports fan and was very vocal in her support of the teams she rooted for. My brothers obliged an avenue for her to express herself in this area as they were very athletic growing up. Everyone could hear my mom yelling from the stands during football, baseball, basketball and track events. She always said she liked to sit with the kids during games so she could get as rowdy as she wanted and not worry about what other parents thought. Now for me growing up this was quite the embarrassment as my mom sat in the stands with my fellow classmates cheering on my brothers and yelling at the refs and umpires. My brother Mark has said he could definitely hear her from the stands down on the football field. Looking back I am glad my mom expressed herself so openly and I know that she is forever a part of many of our classmate's high school memories. As a teenager our relationship was strained and we had our ups and downs. When I was 16 and was involved in a serious accident my mom was always there to take care of me. I needed help to dress and shower and she was always there for me without question. Looking back on that time it is when I began to learn what being a mom was all about. As I got older I grew to appreciate her role and understand why she was as she was. Not to mention that we are more alike than I wanted to notice or admit. My parents were able to share so many memories together. They loved to take trips to Atlantic City and loved to drive to the shore for dinner. They were not just a married couple but genuine friends and enjoyed to do things together and also shared separate interests. She was so proud of her children - my Brother Mark's athletic ability my brother Larry's intelligence and would bend anyone's ear that was willing to listen. I remember when my bother Steven told her that he bet she never thought she would have one child on living on Easy Street and another going to Yale. At the time Steven lived on Easy Street in Milford CT and my Larry was attending Yale University. The line became a standard family joke. My mom spoke her mind openly and freely. I used to say that she was missing the filter that kept most of us from saying some of the things she would. She spoke her feelings and was not afraid to say what maybe most of us thought. Like when my brother Mark and Janet announced their engagement and my mother's comment was "Janet you are not going to wear white to the wedding are you?" Maybe not so funny then but something that we laugh about openly now. As her children grew older and she became a grandma my mother was the best. I lived at home when I had my oldest son Christopher and she and my Dad where a huge part of raising him. A close relationship they have maintained throughout the years. My mom used to push Christopher on the swing for long periods of time and she would call it "swing therapy". She told me one day "ya know Christopher tells me everything when I push him on the swing so you better be careful". I am so glad that my children and my nieces and nephews will have fond memories of their grandmother. I know that as they grow we will have many occasions to sit and reminisce with them about grandma and share all their memories as my brothers and I have done with my family about my grandparents. When I was young I loved my mother because she was my mother. As I grew older and grew up I loved my mother for the person that she was. More importantly I like my mother. I realize how much we have in common. I now know why I love the beach, because she loved the beach. I say things most people wouldn't because she said things most people wouldn't. I have a great sense of humor because she had a great sense of humor. I have a genuine concern for people because she had a genuine concern for people. And last I know now why I have a box that I keep extra buttons from clothing in because she had a box she kept extra buttons from clothing in. I found that box on Monday looking for her favorite necklace in her room. Thank you mom for all that you have done for me, my brothers, our children and my Dad. I love you deeply and I will miss you forever.
Julie Mantovani had this to say about Pauline:
My favorite memory of Pauline took place last summer. She had just fallen ill and I suppose she needed and little something to smile for. Pauline decided that she wanted to get everyone together for a picnic. The entire Bencivengo family was there and Pauline was just thrilled to have everyone together. As sick as she was she hung in and enjoyed the party and laughter. After some time she became tired and needed to go rest in her room. As she rested Larry, Deanna and Mark began to reminisce about old times and the laughter roared through the house. Within minutes Pauline came walking down the hall with a smile a mile wide. She sat down and said that she could hear all the good old stories and the laughing while she was in her room and could no longer resist (as tired as she was) joining in. The whole family sat around for hours reminiscing and laughing to point where your belly hurts and tears pour from your eyes. Pauline joined in telling stories and jokes and laughing. I sat back and soaked in the love that was filling that room, and realized; it was all because of her. And the greatest gift or thank you her kids could have given her was right then and there; it was in the smiles and laughter from their stories of childhood. The childhood that she gave them; and the happiness that was so very obvious. Her smile that night I will never forget, her laughter I can still hear and the love I will forever feel.
Page 16 June 2010
Openings for Land-based Summer Experiences and Youth Leadership The Franciscan Land-based Summer Experiences and the Youth Leadership Program of the Franciscan Life Center, Meriden, Connecticut, have openings in both programs for the week of June 28-July 2, 2010. Children ages 6-12 are invited to join the Land-based Summer Experiences and youth ages 13 and 14 are welcome to register for Youth Leadership. Enjoy a week of educational and personal enrichment. Both programs begin at 9:30 am and end at 3:00 pm. Scholarships are available. For information visit the web site at www.flcenter.org or call Rosellyn Giampietro at 203.237-8084.
A Dad I Know By Jayquan Someone that I know that is a dad is my brother Hector. He has a four year old son who is adorable. When I see them together I start to laugh because they act like clowns and they do funny things. When I see them together I also start to back away because my brother tickles his son and he laughs and kicks at the same time and that gets scary. I love seeing my brother and nephew spend time together because of the way they are together.
CELEBRATIONS
Happy Father’s Day! I love the time we spend together. Love, Jimmy
Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet What a spring we had at the Wallingford Community Garden. All of the rain produced a tremendous amount of grass and weeds everywhere, and I was so busy with work in April that I never had a chance to start my garden cleanup until the beginning of May, and what a challenge it proved to be. My 15 by 30 plot had weeds and grass that were kneehigh. So with my trusty hoe in hand, one foot at a time I began to clear the plot. I almost gave up a few times because it just seemed overwhelming to me, and it was also very hot, and I do not have the endurance I had years ago. Somehow over the next three weeks, a little at a time, I managed to completely rid my garden of the unwanted vegetation. I decided to go to Vinny's and buy some weed block fabric because I had to do something to make my life easier for the future. I dug troughs between the rows where I would be planting tomatoes and such, and then cut strips of fabric and placed it in the troughs and then put hay over it. Even that was a lot of work, especially when it was so hot. I put the weed block on every border of my garden and on all of the paths where I walk, and hay over it. It required a bit of effort, but I am determined not to have to weed all summer long and especially next spring. I'm getting a little too old for this. So finally by May 24th I was ready to start planting. I had purchased tomatoes, basil, and marigolds a week before, so one day I planted 24 marigolds and 6 cherry tomatoes, and a few days later planted the 6 Jet Star tomatoes and 6 Big Boy tomatoes. Yes, 18 tomato plants, but you can never have too many tomatoes! Of course putting the cages around them was a bit of a fight. You almost need two people to do that, but I accomplished it solo. It was just so hot every day I was there, it seemed like everything took forever to do. I realized at some point during the week I had not bought any cucumbers, so I went and got two six-packs of those too. The basil and cukes were planted on the 29th, and I normally do not plant anything until Memorial Day, so this year was the earliest I have ever gotten my veggies and flowers in the ground. Some gardeners at the Community Garden planted squash, cucumbers, and tomatoes a little too early, and the vegetables didn't make it, so they had to plant again. I was at the garden on Sunday, the 30th, and I was happy to see that so far my cucumbers look good. I almost always have to plant them twice, but maybe this year will be different. I decided to put round cages around them this year and see if I can train them up the cages. I didn't have quite enough cukes for four hills, so in one hill I planted seeds. I used to have six hills, but the strawberries have taken over a bit of the space I used to use. I have now more or less boxed off the strawberries so that they cannot spread beyond where they are, I hope. And I have eaten three strawberries to date. Yum. On the 30th I planted a row of two types of sunflowers, Autumn Beauty and Mammoth Russian. I also have two volunteer sunflowers at the very top of one row of tomatoes, so we'll see what happens. All of the perennial flowers have survived and are doing well, as is the garlic. I bought a special cage to put around the black-eyed susans this year to help support them. I haven't put the cage up yet, but I will soon. We have several new gardeners this year, one couple right next to me, and they are very nice. Another new couple is several plots behind me, but we have talked quite a bit, and it is so refreshing to have such pleasant new members of the Community Garden. Apparently there were budget cuts or something because we got no compost this year. We do have an area set up for a compost heap, but there is no way a backhoe can get to it to turn it over. More and more fences are being built by gardeners to discourage the critters. Quite a change from years ago when the entire garden was plowed and harrowed. Every year we would have to line and measure all the plots, put in stakes and rope off all the plots, and that was a big job. Not to mention having to rake your plot and deal with thousands of rocks. It was a huge chore, and I'm glad the decision was made to not plow the garden every year. It also allowed people to plant perennials, which we were never able to do in the past.
No Matter What The Occasion...
So now that everything is planted, this means I have to watch the weather and take time to water. Let us hope we don't have a summer like we had last year, the summer that never was. I would rather have to make a daily trip to water than deal with endless days of rain and eventually the tomato blight. Things are looking promising though, warm weather, lots of sun, and hopefully it will be a really beautiful summer this year. The first day of summer is three weeks away, and I am loving the longer days of sunlight. Happy Father's Day to all of you who are dads! And happy gardening! Barbara Sherburne - barndt49@yahoo.com
A Gathering
we’ll make the flowers picture perfect! Your celebrations of life are so important to us. We take the time and care to make you the flowers, gift baskets and more that will make any celebration even brighter. We would not have it any other way! “When you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it's your world for the moment. I want to give that world to someone else.” - Georgia O'Keeffe
Wallingford Flower & Gift Shoppe Wallingford’s Florist Since 1950
190 Center Street * 203.265.1514
By Rabbi Baruch Kaplan It was Sunday, Memorial Day weekend, but I was not standing around a BBQ and neither were the other 175 Rabbis gathered in Stamford. Our nametags had the cities where we lived, Midtown Manhattan, Boston, MA, Queens, NY, and then there were the smaller towns Wallingford, CT, Sudbury, MA, Warwick, RI. We had joined together for a day of inspiration and ideas. Although each of our communities are different, our goal is the same. We are Chabad Shluchim - a Jewish organization dedicated to making Judaism, its laws, customs and teachings accessible to every Jew regardless of their background, prior knowledge, or affiliation…. How, though, do we accomplish that? Firstly, we aren't merely a group of Rabbis but rather families. Our families are proud to become part of the unique culture that each city or town offers. In our case, the town of Wallingford with its friendly, unpretentious warmth - is the perfect place to raise a family. We offer a wide array of family programs where one can learn while having fun. For example, on Hannukah - rain or snow- community members from all backgrounds join to light a large Menorah, taste steaming latkes and enjoy jelly doughnuts on the Railroad Green . At each of our holiday programs there are a variety of activities geared for children and adults alike, to learn and explore the beauty of Judaism. Our center, located in the heart of town, 174 Center Street serves as a home for a wide range of Jewish activities ~ Synagogue, Holiday celebrations and classes. Every Sunday morning a lively class (9:30 am) on Jewish mysticism unfolds where participants not only enjoy the delicious coffee and light breakfast, but leave feeling inspired, charged and challenged. Though the class officially ends at 10:30 the room is still abuzz at 11:00 with intense conversation. Other facets of our center might be found on Café Chabad - comedy night, or the One stop Hannukah Shoppe. But to really get to know us, I invite you to give us a call (203)265-4012 and find out how much more there is for you. How about membership? There is none. All of our events and classes are open to the public. Feel free to walk in at any time and we are sure that you will feel comfortable! Getting back to our conference, a lot of great ideas were brought up and some we'll implement, but the best ideas of how we can truly make our Jewish Center - your center- will come from you. Please send me an e mail @ chabadwallingford@sbcglobal.net .
LEARN HOW TO SWIM IN YOUR OWN HOME! The Wallingford Family YMCA Aquatics Staff will come to you this summer. All you need is a swimming pool and a little time…..The YMCA will send a swim instructor to your home to teach your children and/or your neighbor's children. This package will include four classes that are forty five minutes long. Classes can be scheduled once or twice a week. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at (203) 269-4497
Page 17 June 2010
JUNE EVENTS AT THE WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Celebrations
All of our programs are free, all of the time! Saturday Mornings with Poetry - Saturday, June 12 and June 26 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Board Room On June12th we will feature poems about Fathers' Day and men in general. On June 26th, there will be a music & poetry program designed for group participation. At each meeting all are welcome to read original poems and share their writing experiences with fellow poets. Teen and adult poets and poetry lovers are invited. Please contact the library for more information. Thursday Night Book Club: Run by Ann Patchett - Thursday, June 17 7:00 p.m. Collins Room Since their mother's death, Tip and Teddy Doyle have been raised by their loving, possessive, and ambitious father. As the former mayor of Boston, Bernard Doyle wants to see his sons in politics, a dream the boys have never shared. But when an argument in a blinding New England snowstorm inadvertently causes an accident that involves a stranger and her child, all Bernard Doyle cares about is his ability to keep his children-all his children-safe. Set over a period of twenty-four hours, Run takes us from the Museum of Comparative Zoology at Harvard to a home for retired Catholic priests in downtown Boston. It shows us how worlds of privilege and poverty can coexist only blocks apart from each other, and how family can include people you've never even met. As in her bestselling novel Bel Canto, Ann Patchett illustrates the humanity that connects disparate lives, weaving several stories into one surprising and endlessly moving narrative. Suspenseful and stunningly executed, Run is ultimately a novel about secrets, duty, responsibility, and the lengths we will go to protect our children. (From the book jacket) Copies of the book are available from the Information Desk on a first-come-first-served basis or by reserving through our catalog. All are welcome for conversation and refreshments. Our informal book discussion group meets on the third Thursday of each month. No registration is necessary. The Play's The Thing: A Discussion Series - Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward Thursday, June 24 3:30 p.m. Collins Room As Coward wrote: "I will ever be grateful for the almost psychic gift that enabled me to write Blithe Spirit in five days during one of the darkest years of the war." Written in 1941, the play remained the longest-running comedy in the history of the British theatre for three decades thereafter. Dealing with relationships on both sides of the grave, it is an enduring classic. This play is the third and final installment of our 3-part discussion series "The Play's the Thing" presented in cooperation with the Connecticut Humanities Council. Copies of Blithe Spirit are available from the library's Information Desk. Series is moderated by Marsha Bansavage. Adult Summer Reading Program: Book Buddies…Bags of Fun for Adults! Begins June 28 and runs through 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! An Evening with Poet Kim Bridgford Tuesday, June 29 6:30 p.m. Community Room Join us for an evening of poems and poetic insight by Kim Bridgford. Ms Bridgford is the author of four collections of poetry: Undone, nominated for the Pulitzer Prize; Instead of Maps, nominated for the Poet's Prize; In the Extreme: Sonnets about World Records, winner of the Donald Justice Prize; and Take-Out: Sonnets about Fortune Cookies, forthcoming from David Robert Books. She is currently working on a three-book poetry/photography project with visual artist Jo Yarrington, focusing on journey and sacred space in Iceland, Venezuela, and Bhutan. A former Connecticut Professor of the Year and a two-time nominee for U.S. Professor of the Year, she was the 2007 Connecticut Touring Poet. She is also the founder of The Mezzo Cammin Women Poets Timeline Project, which will eventually be the largest database of women poets in the world, and was launched at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington on March 27, 2010. In August 2010 she will become the new director of the West Chester University Poetry Center and the West Chester University Poetry Conference. All are welcome and refreshments will be served, advance registration is encouraged. Couponing Class Wednesday, June 30 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Collins Room Join Gina Juliano and learn couponing tricks from a pro! Save the coupon inserts from your Sunday paper and bring them with you to this workshop on how to save money on your grocery and drugstore bills. All are welcome however class size is limited, register early. June Movie Delights!!! Free Movie Screenings at the Wallingford Public Library Friday Night Flicks presents Shutter Island Friday, June 11 6:30 p.m. Community Room Martin Scorsese puts Leonardo DiCaprio through the wringer again in Shutter Island, a gothic adaptation of Dennis Lehane's novel. Shutter Island is the story of two U.S. marshals, Teddy Daniels and Chuck Aule, who are summoned to a remote and barren island off the cost of Massachusetts to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a murderess from the island's fortress-like hospital for the criminally insane. This might not be an easy assignment for the sweaty, anxious Daniels, who is haunted by his memories of German concentration camps and the loss of his wife (Michelle Williams, appearing in ghostly hallucinations). Rated: R Martin Scorsese has created a divinely dark and devious brain tease of a movie in the best noir tradition with its smarter than you'd think cops, their tougher than you'd imagine cases to crack and enough nods to the classic genre for an all-night parlor game. L.A. Times 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 Titles Available at Wallingford Library The Wallingford Library is stocked with the titles on the School Summer Reading Lists. There are plenty of copies of the books and audio books. Reading Lists for Dag Hammarskjold Middle School, James H. Moran Middle School, Lyman Hall High School, and Mark T. Sheehan High School are available at the Library's Information Desk.
As I write this we are awaiting the arrival of a grandson. My son Jarad & his wife are having their first child. His first Fathers Day .My husband & I are hoping for May 30th as the date he appears to his world as this date is our 40th wedding anniversary. What a wonderful gift, along with the two other grandchildren given to us by my daughter. Life is Good. - Carole Golitko
Before School and After School programs The Wallingford Family YMCA is now accepting enrollment for their Before School and After School programs. Programs are state licensed; provide morning and afternoon snacks, homework mentoring, and a variety of activities. Programs are offered and located at all 8 elementary schools. The Before School program runs from 6:45 until the first bell, and the After School program lasts from school dismissal until 6pm. The YMCA also offers programs during most school vacations and when school is closed due to inclement weather. The YMCA Kinderhouse provides wrap-around Before and After School Care for students enrolled in kindergarten. Care is also available for children attending Holy Trinity School. There are also very limited openings in our All Day Kindergarten, located in the YMCA Kinderhouse. Please contact the YMCA at 203 269-4497 or Jane Rynaski at 203 697-2383 with any questions.
HUNGARIAN COOKIE MAKING LESSONS June 18, Friday at 6:30 pm. preparing the dough and the fillings June 19, Sat. at 9:30 am rolling, making and baking the cookies Cost: $25.00 paid to the E & R U.C.C.includes: taking home 1 dz. cookies. Place: E & R. UCC105 So. Cherry St. Wallingford, Ct. Church's kitchen Registration by June 10: Please call: Csilla 203-206-2002
Vasa Park Events The Village Arts' and Craft Show will be held Sunday July 25, 2010 10 AM to 4 PM. The park is located at 358 Main Street South Meriden. Local crafter's are welcome. Please contact Linda at gsteinmiller@cox.net or 860-563-0040. Midsummer Festival will be held on Sunday June 27, 2010. A Swedish Meatball dinner will be served at 1:00 PM. There will be a clown and games for the children. Bring lawn chairs. For more information please contact Linda at gsteinmiller@cox.net or 860-563-0040.
Read Aloud Day
The Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce held its 12th Annual Read Aloud Day where local businesses provide volunteers for one hour to read to all first grade classrooms in Wallingford and North Haven. The program is sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield. They provide the books for each classroom as well as the bookmarks for each student. The book that was read was Career Day by Anne Rockwell. John Cronan, General Manager at the Holiday Inn says it was a very nice start to my day!! “The children were very animated and interested in talking about their future aspirations. I especially loved the student who wanted to be a mime, veterinarian, and high wire walker” stated Sharlene Wong, Director of Food Services from Wallingford Public Schools. We have over 50 volunteers from various companies within Wallingford and North Haven and they just love this program every year, says Liz Davis, Education Coordinator for the QChamber. Many of the volunteers love it so much that they sign up year after year and immediately ask for me to call them again for next year when they have just finished reading. Lots of fun for everyone! Picture: Jim Loughlin from Loughlin FitzGerald, P.C. in Mrs. Papoosha’s classroom Moses Y. Beach
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Page 18 June 2010
WALLINGFORD - A Whole New Culture
LocalMotion - Local Business! To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at I was born in Oregon and raised in a small, one-horse town where the mountains surrounded us, the river flowed beside us, and the trees were in abundance. After being a widow for 2 1/2 years I met a wonderful, handsome man on the inter- 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the net who lived in a placed called Wallingford, Connecticut. I had no idea where Wallingford was, what it looked like, or power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the what the population consisted of, but I did know that after many prayers, emails and phone calls, I desperately wanted to return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! meet this man that I had already fallen in love with. So on Sunday, January 25 I boarded a plane and headed for parts unknown, fully aware that God was orchestrating our encounter and the outcome was up to Him. To make a long story South Meriden Fire Depart. short, we were married on Friday, January 30th! We knew that God had joined us together and that we wanted to live together for the rest of our lives. The following Monday I boarded the plane as a new bride and went back to Oregon to sell my home and make arrangements to move out. We were apart for a month, and when I got back to Wallingford and things settled down I quickly realized that I was living in a whole new world. I loved the quaint, historical town of Wallingford with it's charming street lights and corner Gazebo. I loved it when I saw the band playing in the Gazebo and remarked how it reminded me of Mayberry USA. One day while we were out driving I noticed a sign that read, "TAG SALE." I turned to my husband. "Tag sale? What's a tag sale, honey?" "Didn't you have tag sales in Oregon?" he replied. "I've never heard of one before," I answered. He explained what it was and then I understood. "In Oregon we call them yard sales, garage sales....things like that. But never tag sales." Another time we were getting ready to go somewhere and I asked my husband to please bring me my tennis shoes. "Your what?" "My tennis shoes, Babe." "Tennis shoes! Why do you call them tennis shoes? You mean sneakers." "Sneakers! You mean you call them sneakers out here?" The other big one that I still haven't gotten over is "pocket book." Out west we call them purses. What I carry is South Meriden Fire Department wants to announce the arrival of their new neither a book nor small enough to fit in my pocket - any pocket - so why purses are called pocket books I just don't 2010 Emergency Response Utility Vehicle, RANGER ONE which is a understand. Polaris Ranger 800cc 6X6 utility vehicle with a medical bed in its cargo And "package store." I kept seeing little stores with that title above them. area and it also has a seat for a medical attendant so that person can render "Babe, what's a package store?" aid to the patient while they are transported off the trail. Ranger ONE was "Don't they have package stores in Oregon?" he quizzed. introduced on June 5 on National Trail Days at the beginning of the Q-River "I've never heard of a package store before. What do they sell?" Trail near Red Bridge. My husband told me then asked what they are called out West. Since the inception of the City's Linear Trail in South Meriden and the "They're called what they are - a Liquor Store." future expansion of the trail it was deemed by the Department Chiefs that My husband used another word I didn't understand. "Better wear your dungarees." to help enhance the departments response to medical emergencies an emer"My what?" gency response vehicle would be needed. "You know, your dungaree jacket." Due to some trail security measures to stop unauthorized vehicles on the "Oh, you mean my blue-jean jacket?" trail security barriers were installed. If an emergency is reported on the trail "Yeah..... your dungaree." the emergency personnel who arrive first would have to start to taking down "O-kaaaay...." these barriers while others crew members would walk/hike into the trail to Yes, it has been a wonderful, educational adventure living in Connecticut. My husband and I have been married a treat the injured or ill person. little over a year now and we are more in love with each other every day. Live has been sweet living in Wallingford. In Having this vehicle now will enhance care & transport to a person who the summer we often walk up to the Old Dublin to hear the Irish band. Sometimes we will go to the corner ice-cream has to be removed off the trail due to some type of medical emergency. parlor, grab a treat, and sit on a nearby bench to eat it. Other times we'll eat it while we walk home on a humid, starry For approximately 4 years the department has been saving money from evening. There's a big difference between Oregon and Connecticut and a lot of miles in between. But I'm with the one I special events and from their annual fund drive appeal to raise money to love, in the town I love, living in the 100-year old house I love, and God has blessed our union in the town I now call purchase this vehicle. The department wanted to fund this project by fund home. - Submitted by Bethany Kusmit Wallingford, CT raising in the community and to date it has been able to do so. The cost to date is $16,000 and there are some other things that still need to be added to this emergency response vehicle. Items still needed to be funded are upgraded emergency lighting and response equipment, graphics package and a trailer at a cost around $3,000 Chief Keith Gordon, his officers and members want to thank everyone who has helped us make this project a reality. If anyone wants to donate to the RANGER project they can send their donations to SMVFD PO Box 3030, Meriden, CT 06450
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Page 19 June 2010
WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER NEWS AND EVENTS 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. Are You Without Health Insurance? Governor Rell's Charter Oak Health Plan is available to uninsured Connecticut residents who currently lack access to affordable healthcare. This insurance is available to individuals who are between the ages of 19 and 64 and have been without insurance for at least six months. Exceptions to this waiting period could be financial hardship, job loss, etc. Premiums are based on income and start at $75.00. For additional information, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at (203) 265-7753. 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). Ask an Attorney Thursday, June 10, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Appointments are available to get free legal advice from Attorney Daniel Tully. Please call (203) 265-7753 to schedule an appointment. Low Vision Support Group Friday, June 18, 10:15 - 11:15 AM A trip to the Wallingford Library is planned for this meeting. Bev Devlin will provide a library tour as well as provide a focus on library material available to assist individuals with low vision. Transportation will be provided. Please call 203 265-7753 to register. Veterans Services Tuesday, June 29, 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 Food Pantries in Wallingford Need a little help with your food bill? Listed below are the names, addresses, and times you can visit. oAngel Food Ministries: Get $75.00 worth of food for $30.00. See member interest table at the center, or call 203284-8975 for additional information. oMaster's Manna: 46 North Plains Road (in back). ID required (Photo ID, Birth Certificate or medical card). Distribution times: Tuesday & Thursday, 9-12; Fridays, 4-8 p.m. oGood News Food Pantry: 46 John Street (Good News Church). Distribution time: Wednesday, 11:00 a. m.-1:00 p.m. oLocal churches: Call your church to find out if there is a food pantry available. PROGRAMS Resources for Your Job Search Thursday, June 3, 6:30 PM Bryce Rathbone, AARP CT Coordinator for Benefits Outreach, will offer an informative presentation for those over age 50 looking to re-enter the work force. He will share his personal experiences as well as online resources including a site that has actual jobs for folks over 50. Cruise Night Thursday, June 17, 5:00 - 8:30 PM Don't miss the first Cruise Night of the season - when our parking lot is filled with cars that will take you back in time! We thank Mike Savenelli for organizing this event. "At the Hop" Dance Party Thursday, June 17, 6:30 PM Get out your poodle skirts and your saddle shoes (only kidding!) and join us in the Great Room for our dance party featuring music of the 1950's with Randy Holloway. This party promises lots of fun for dancers as well as listeners! Do You Love To Eat? Cooking Demo Series Thursday, June 17, 10:00 AM Join us for the first of a four-part series on easy and healthy cooking offered by Genesis HealthCare. On June 17, enjoy a healthy breakfast cooking demo and enjoy some sampling! This fun event promises to be educational, too! Please sign up to attend. Brain Healthy Foods Tuesday, June 15, 10:00 AM If you give your brain the right nutrients, you will be able to think quicker, have a better memory, be better coordinated and balanced, and have improved concentration. Learn the three key brain foods to boost your brainpower at this program presented by Nancy Gierwielaniec of Arden Courts. Please sign up to attend. Credit Health Workshop Thursday, June 24, 6:30 PM Mike Savenelli will present a workshop on the basics of credit reporting and scoring. Topics include: how reports are developed; the big three credit reporting agencies; what affects consumers' scores; consumers' access to their data; the process to dispute and correct data; and do's and don'ts in the credit world. Please register to attend. Mind and Medicine Tuesday, June 22, 10:00 AM Dr. Marianne Murray Urbanski, a local specialist in periodontics and implant dentistry, has spent years studying the connections between the mind and the body. Her new book, Mind and Medicine: In Harmony for Healing, explores how our thoughts can affect our body's ability to heal. Dr. Urbanski will discuss her findings with us on June 22, at 10:00 AM. Please sign up to attend.
Registration is now open for Vacation Bible School at Immanuel Lutheran Church. 164 Hanover St. Meriden. Kids will have a fun time at our 2-week evening Vacation Bible School. July 6, 7, 8 and 13, 14, 15 (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) 6:15 to 8:00 pm. Light supper followed by program - games, singing, bible stories, crafts. PreK through Grade 6 (under age 6, parents must stay) To sign up or for more info email us at office@immanuelmeriden.com or call 203-238-1248.
A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him or her. ~David Brinkley It ain't what they call you, it's what you answer to. ~W.C. Fields
Audubon Society
Birdsong Basics at Riverbound Farm Bird Sanctuary The Quinnipiac Valley Audubon Society, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, will sponsor a program ‘Birdsong Basics’ at Riverbound Farm Sanctuary, 1881 Cheshire St in Cheshire on Sunday June 20th 8:3010:00 am. Rain Date Sunday June 27. Come learn the calls and songs of 20 common bird species. This program is appropriate for ages 8 and up. To register or for more information call Corrrie at 203-630-9640. Other Summer Programs coming up: Sunday July 18th Monarch Madness 12-2 Friday Aug 13th Nature at Night 8-10:30 pm Sunday Sept 19th Field Biology Day. 8:30-11
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Page 20 June 2010
QRWA Offered Beginner Paddling for Trails Day on June 5th, 2010
CELEBRATIONS
In celebration of National Trails Day, Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) held free canoe and kayak rides and beginner paddler instruction on Saturday morning, June 5 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Meriden's Linear Trail. QRWA instructors accompanied paddlers in the beginner-friendly section of the river near Hanover Pond.. There were several sightings of the Bald Eagles that are now nesting year round at Hanover Pond thrilling those who participated. Mary Mushinski, QRWA Executive Director and Dan Pelletier, QRWA Board Member leading a group of paddlers are shown with some of the paddlers who attended. The launch point was the QRWA building at 540 Oregon Road, Meriden. For information about the QRWA call 203-237-2237.
Greater Meriden Chamber News and Events In the last issue, we highlighted the Greater Meriden Chamber education awards and the fact that the Chamber's 23rd Annual Golf Tournament is the major fundraiser for the awards that are given to students each year. A respectable $70,000 has been given back over the past to our future leaders. By the time you read this, the golf tournament will have passed and we'll be discussing and planning for the 2011 tournament! The awardees are honored at the Chamber's Annual Meeting and Dinner which was held on April 8th at Mountain Ridge. 250 people attended the wonderful event this year that was truly a "Celebration of Successes". We wanted to share some of the photos of the event with the People's Press readership and we thank and credit Lifetiled LLC for being the official event photographers that evening. 2010 Student Award Winners pictured with Chamber Board Chairman Frank Ridley (left) and Sanford Shorr (far right); Prisca Maebry, Ian Stankiewicz, Heather Vicenty, Christina Ward, and Lauren Gomez. Not pictured: Gabriella Reyes, Amber Jones and Amanda Rivers. 2010 Small Business Leadership Award Honorees - the Bongiovanni Family of Bongiovanni Insurance & Financial, LLC.
Happy Father’s Day - YOU are the best. Love, Kayla
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4th of July Fireworks Wallingford & Meriden 2010 Community Partnership Award Honoree: Larry Pelletie
2010 Student Award Winners
Also Honored: 2010 Large Business Leadership Award Honoree - Four Points by Sheraton Meriden Become a FAN of Greater Meriden Chamber on Facebook! Join the over 170 Facebook Friends who are already FANS of the Greater Meriden Chamber! The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is located at 3 Colony Street, Suite 301, Meriden, CT 06451. Ph.: 203.235.7901 / Fx.: 203.686.0172. Visit www.meridenchamber.com or email: info@meridenchamber.com
United Way of Meriden and Wallingford Presents "Days of Action" June 21 - 25, 2010 On June 21st (the longest day of the year) United Ways across the country are once again participating in a nationwide "Day of Action." With more daylight hours than any other, June 21st is the perfect day to let your actions speak louder than words by showing what it means to LIVE UNITED. The Volunteer Center of the United Way of Meriden and Wallingford is encouraging local companies and groups to serve the community during our "Days of Action," which will be held the week of Monday, June 21 - Friday June 25, 2010. Our focus for this year is once again for local companies to respond to this "call to action" by collecting various toiletries, paper goods and household items to help the families our agencies serve. If you are interested in getting your coworkers involved, please let me know as soon as possible! DAY OF ACTION Details: Monday June 21st - Friday June 25th Companies should individually decide what creative means they want to use to encourage employees to contribute items that will go to local families in need in our community. Please contact me for a list of items needed, if you would like to help or if you have any questions: Sarah A. Chorzempa - Coordinator, The Volunteer Center United Way of Meriden and Wallingford, 35 Pleasant St., Suite 1E, Meriden, CT 06450 Tel: (203) 235-4403, ext. 12 sarah@unitedwaymw.org
Annual Statewide Picnic The Polish Nat'l Alliance is holding their annual statewide picnic on Saturday, June 12, 2010 @ beautiful PNA Park on North Plains Industrial Road in Wallingford. Everyone is welcome and all the fun begins @ 12 noon. There'll be music, dancing, and home made Polish Food. Proceeds from this event benefit our scholarship fund. So please support our event and thank you in advance for your publicity support. You may call the PNA in Wallingford @ (203) 269-9405 with any questions.
Wallingford Saturday, July 3rd at dusk. Mark T. Sheehan High School Hope Hill Road
Meriden Westfield MeridenJuly Fireworks Spetacular Friday, July 2nd from 6pm-10pm Westfield Meriden Parking Deck *Live entertainment from the Bel-Airs * Fun Kids Activities * Great Food and Fantastic Fireworks $1.00 donation per person to benefit the United Way of Meriden and Wallingford.
LocalMotion - Local Events!
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Page 21 June 2010
The Manhattan Project By Zoe Bermudez - Age 13 Fog clung to the city of Hiroshima like a child would cling to a mother. The sun was just beginning to show from behind the distant mountains. Aside from a couple of birds, a plane was the only moving thing in the vast stretch of the early morning sky. If you looked more closely, you could see that the plane was part of the American military and that it had been modified as if to carry a great weight in its belly. As dawn drew nearer and nearer, pilot Colonel Paul Tibbets became more anxious. This operation had to be done as quickly as possible. Finally, the words were uttered. "Bomb activated," his passenger, a scientist, informed him. Tibbets radioed the base in Tinian. "Releasing in 3…2…1…" He hit a button and a trapped door was opened underneath a massive, 9700 pound atomic bomb, the second of the only three ever made. Within seconds, it was plummeting toward the earth at an alarming rate. Suddenly, the bomb was replaced by a flash of white light that filled one's vision, but just for a split second. Quickly afterward, a mushroom cloud of black, red, orange, yellow, and white took up a large part of the sky. Tibbets had just witnessed the detonation of the most dangerous weapon in the world and he would wear the title for the rest of his life. Hundreds of thousands of people were involved with and affected by the Manhattan Project. This report is about those people and the bombs they have come to know all too well. Some know of it because they created it, some because they tested it, others because it killed their families. And every last event, right down to the minutest detail, started with a letter. This letter was addressed to President Roosevelt from scientists Albert Einstein and Leo Szilard (1). Its contents warned Roosevelt that the Nazis might have found a way to make nuclear bombs which they could use to win the war (1). Roosevelt reacted by signing an order, creating a new $2 billion secret project (1 and 2). This project would develop nuclear weapons (1). It was named the Manhattan Engineer District but over time it was shortened to the Manhattan Project. The Manhattan Project only produced three atomic bombs due to the immense price and slow production of explosive material. Scientists needed purified uranium-235 in order to create the bombs. It was extremely hard to extract it at the time. Also, its chemical makeup was almost identical to the useless uranium-238. To make production even harder, the types of uranium could not be separated by ordinary chemical extraction methods. Only mechanical methods were effective. In order to separate large amounts of mixed uranium in a very small amount of time, an enormous laboratory was built at Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This building was full of equipment that used magnets to isolate the two isotopes. Then, the uranium was processed again using gas to separate the lighter uranium-235 from the heavier uranium-238. After all these processes were complete, all the uranium-235 had to do was be put to the test. (7) Now that they had the right materials, scientists could start making the bombs. The first bomb was used as a test model and nick-named "Gadget" (1). All the scientists needed was a place to detonate it (1). Because "Gadget" was potentially dangerous, the area of detonation had to be flat, isolated from any populated areas, and close to the research base in Los Alamos, New Mexico (1). Soon the perfect section of land was found in south-central New Mexico and instantly code-named Trinity (1). Gadget was placed on a tower 100 feet high and made ready for detonation. However, no one could have been completely prepared for the results of the actual explosion. The blast was so intense that it melted the sandy soil around the tower (7). It also was reported to have a flash "as bright as daytime" and produced enough heat to make the scientists feel like they were "in an oven" (10). Even people in a nearby community "swore that the sun came up twice that day" (10). Another report told of a blind girl who was able to see the flash 120 miles away (10). Soon after, scientists started working on another bomb which was to be used for actual, targeted destruction. This bomb was named "Little Boy". It weighed in at around 9,700 pounds and measured over 10 feet long. Despite its name and size, "Little Boy" was equivalent to over 20,000 tons of TNT. To see how much damage it would do the bomb was tested on a miniature-sized scale. There was also a third bomb being made at the time but that was intended for a later event. (1) Now that the United States government was confident with their nuclear explosions, they wanted to put them into action. They decided to bomb Japanese cities because they felt that it would be a good way to get to Germany and to end the war. At the time they had one bomb and four possible targets and picking the right target to create the biggest impact was crucial (2). After much debating and arguing, it was finally decided to attack Hiroshima (2). Now all they needed was a way to transport such a deadly weapon 7,000 miles to Japan. The aircraft of choice was a B-29, which was then modified so that it could carry the immense weight of Little Boy (8). The plane was nick-named Enola Gay after the pilot Colonel Paul Tibbets's mother (8). The plane would take off from the military base at Tinian in a week (8). A scientist would ride with him to the targeted area where he would then trigger the bomb (8). One week later on Monday, August 6, 1945, the Enola Gay took off from Tinian at 2:45 a.m. (2). More than 7,000 miles later it was almost time to drop the bomb. At 0815:17 "Little Boy" was released and was began plummeting toward the unsuspecting city of Hiroshima (8). Within 12 seconds, the bomb exploded only 1,900 feet above the city (10). In an instant over 70,000 people were killed and 60,000 buildings were destroyed (2). Two thirds of the city was destroyed within three miles (2). Over the course of five years, another 70,000 people died from the effects of the bomb's radiation (2). In the end, only 21,000 of 350,000 Hiroshima's residents survived (2). One of them described the damage to Hiroshima's people: The appearance was… well, they all had skin blackened by burns… They had no hair because their hair was burned and at a glance you couldn't tell if you were looking at them from the front or back… They had their arms bent (forward) like this… and their skin-not only on their hands, but on their faces and bodies- hung down … if there had been only one or two such people … perhaps I would not have had such a strong impression. But wherever I walked, I met these people … Many of them died along the road - I can still picture them in my mind - like walking ghosts. (2) -Anonymous The next bombing would occur three days later. This time the target was Nagasaki (4). It took the American government less time to pick another target because the Japanese were already shaken by what happened in Hiroshima. At that time the choice of any city would still have a big impact. The government went with Nagasaki because it was one of the biggest cities of the time (7). Because the military already had a bomb and a plane ready a second detonation would be easier than the first. The third bomb was nick-named "Fat Man" because it had a rounder shape than "Little Boy" (5). It was made of a different material called plutonium-239 (2). It was carried by another B-29 called Bockscar (2). This plane took off from Tinian at 3:49 a.m. on August 9th. Seven hours and thirteen minutes later, "Fat Man" was dropped at 11:02 a.m. (2). This bomb exploded 1,650 feet above the busy city (2). Because Nagasaki's landscape was more hilly and rugged, the bomb did not do as much damage as its brother had done to Hiroshima (2). Nonetheless, approximately 40% of the city was destroyed (2). One survivor described his rather startling discovery of what the bomb did to the people of Hiroshima: The pumpkin field in front of the house was blown clean. Nothing was left of the whole thick crop, except that in place of the pumpkins was a woman's head. I looked at her face to see if I knew her. It was a woman of about forty. She must have been from another part of town - I had never seen her around here. A gold tooth gleamed in a wide-open mouth. A handful of singed hair hung down from the left temple over her cheek, dangling into her mouth. Her eyelids were drawn up, showing black holes where the eyes had been burned out… She had probably looked square into the flash andgotten her eyeballs burned out. (2) -Fujie Urate Matsumoto At the time 270,000 people lived in Nagasaki. More than 100,000 bomb-related deaths occurred by the end of the year (2). Due to heavy casualties, the nation of Japan was weakened and scared. On August 15, 1945 Emperor Hirohito surrendered to the Allied forces not knowing that the United States had no more bombs readily available (1). The Manhattan Project was so secret that not even the Vice President, Harry S. Truman, knew of it until after Roosevelt's death in 1945. This project was so complex and important that it was necessary to recruit some of the top scientific brains in the United States. The Manhattan Project created the most dangerous weapon the world had ever seen and demonstrated how deadly science can be. Never before in human history had science had the ability to produce enough potential power to literally destroy the world in a matter of seconds. The planning, actions, and effects of the Manhattan Project contributed greatly to the end of World War II. Some people say that it was a bad idea; others say it could not have been better. However, the question remains: now that we have this technology, what will we do next?
CELEBRATIONS
The Meriden Senior Buddy Reader program was recently recognized by the CT Association of Schools with their highest award, the 2010 Distinguished Friend of Education. This recognition is for organizations that make strong contributions to public education. Senior Buddy Readers, sponsored by Meriden Children First (www.meridenchildrenfirst.org), is an early literacy program involving more than 75 senior volunteers who read with more than 200 first- and second-graders in five of Meriden's elementary schools. The award came as a result of a nomination from staff at Nathan Hale, who noted that the Buddy Reader program 'sends a very powerful message to students as it communicates the value of reading, promotes personal motivation, and generates tolerance and mutual respect for others.' Pictured: Lynne Patry and Judy Seldner of Meriden's Nathan Hale Elementary join Senior Buddy Reader Coordinator Cathy Lewis and Gina Vance and Karen Pracktor of the CT Association of Schools at a special award ceremony at the Board of Education on May 4, 2010.
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Page 22 June 2010
Hey Kids - SPEND YOUR SUMMMER AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY FREE tickets available for summer program special on June 1st. We have many professional performers for Monday night at 6:30 PM. and Thursday mornings at 10:30 AM. These specials "The Magic Of Nature In Our World" are as follows: June 21 6:30PM. Eastern Woodland and Lakota Native American dance music and history. Join the Bolden family Pow-Wow for a fun filled night! June 28 6:30PM. "Hats Off To Reading"-Join Keith Johnson's slap stick comedy. Juggling games and the magic of reading. July 1 10:30AM. "Curious Creatures" with Ron Deluca. Meet a variety of live animals. July 8 10:30AM. Sing along with music from around the world featuring Chris Merwin. July 12 6:30 PM. "Drumming About You" with Bob Bloom. Play a variety of percussion instruments and learn about them. July 15 10:30AM. "Bubble Trouble" featuring Steve Jones. Bubbles fun for all ages. July 19 6:30PM. Sing along with Marjorie Warner.Learn new songs and old favorites. July 22 10:30AM. Sparky's Puppets' performance of "Tales of the Shore and Sea". A puppet show for Children ages 3 and up. July 26 6:30PM. "Kahana Hula" program with Tiare Kahana. Learn Hawaiian culture, history, and Polynesian dance through stories, songs, music, and dance. July 29 10:30AM. "Worm Show". Who knew the life of a worm could be fascinating and fun! This program is for children ages 4 and up. Aug. 2 6:30PM. "Danny Magic" is a fast paced mind boggling magic show filled with laughter for children ages 4 and up. Aug. 5 10:30AM. Riverside Reptiles. "Geepers Creepers". Live reptiles, amphibians, insects, and spiders! This program is for children ages 3 and up. FREE tickets available in the Children's Library beginning June 1. Programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Meriden Public Library. Please note age restrictions. For more information call us at (203 630-6347). SUMMER PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY ARE ASS FOLLOWS: Tuesdays 10:15 Independent 2 Year Olds 11:15 3-4 Years Old 6:30 3-4 ears Old Wednesdays 10:30 2-3 Years Old w/Parent 11:15 3-4 Years Old
Wallingford Family YMCA Brings Dolphin Excitement!
The Wallingford Dolphins Swim Team has recently begun their summer season. The summer season will run thru the last weekend in July. This co-ed program invites children ages 5 thru 18 to join the fun. Practices will consist of stroke development and conditioning. The Junior and Senior program will also include strength training and dry land conditioning. All children are given the opportunity to compete in swim meets which are held on Friday evenings. Pre-Registration is encouraged. For more information; please Contact Keith Cargan, Head Swim Team Coach at kcargan@wallingfordymca.org or (203) 269-4497; ext. 30 Parents learn a lot from their children about coping with life. --Muriel Spark
CELEBRATIONS
The Best Dad In The World By Jessica D. My dad is the best dad in the whole world because he fixes my stuff and he plays with me. So I should get him a trophy. Also when I am sad he makes me feel better. So that is why I want to tell you more about him. My dad fixes my stuff. Like he built me a swing set and then he fixed it. He fixed it because every time I would swing up and down very high my swing set would bounce every were. Now do you see why my dad is very handy and that's why he is the best dad ever. So that's how my dad fixes my stuff. My dad also plays with me. He plays with me outside, inside and he plays football with me. When we are inside we play frogger my favorite game. We also videogames and we watch t.v. When were outside we play football and practice golf. So those are just a few fun things me and my dad play together. My dad does all this great stuff with me so I should give him another trophy for fathers day. It should say 1# dad, you are the best dad in the whole world and I love you. So I think my dad would love that as a fathers day present. Well he loves that every year also I will give him something else with his trophy. So that's what I will give him for Fathers day because I Love Him So Much. So that's what my dad dose for me so that's what I will give him for doing all that. I also think my dad will like that. My dad is the best dad in the whole world. So I Love him for that.
Congratulations to Jason M. Belejack who received his Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine, graduating Summa cum laude from the University of Bridgeport, College of Naturopathic Medicine on Sunday May 23, 2010. Dr. Belejack resides in South Meriden with his wife Kristy and two sons, Tony and Carter. He is the son of Diamond and Bill Belejack of South Meriden, and grandson of Donna Belajack, the late William Belajack, and the late Celia and Vincent Bartolomucci. Dr. Belejack will be practicing at the New England Naturopathic Center located in Cheshire, CT in September.
CHORALE CONNECTICUT'S SPRING CONCERT TO AIR ON COX CABLE - CHANNEL 15 Chorale Connecticut's spring concert, "Earth Notes," will air on Cox Cable Network, Channel 15, on the following Saturdays at 8 PM - June 12th and June 19th. This is a perfect opportunity to experience this delightful May 1st concert for those who were not in attendance.
Natural Medicine Experts, Local in Wallingford
Dr. Jared M. Skowron - CT's expert in children's natural healthcare, author of Fundamentals of Naturopathic Pediatrics, recently seen on Animal Planet, Dogs 101 Dr. Nicole R. Kerr - expert in natural treatments for women's health conditions, IBS, migraines, and expert in acupuncture.
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Page 23 June 2010
"The Bus" Part 1 of 3 By Jeffrey Hamelin When I think of Meriden and my "Wonder Years" I will admit much of what went on in the fifties are a blur. Little episodes however come through loud and clear as if they had happened only yesterday. The times spent with "The Gang" which was comprised of my three brothers and me, as well as boys and girls of our quiet little neighborhood, are the fodder for what are my most vivid memories. Below is a modest example. I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! My brothers and I are the product of a mixed marriage. By that I mean that my mother was the daughter of Southern Italian parents and my father's ancestry was that of early French Canadian "Quebecquois" settlers. Due to this special mixing, the question of where we boys would go to school was an important one. Due to the fact that we were Roman Catholics, there was absolutely no question that we would attend a parochial school; however which one we would attend was the question. There were several in Meriden with most European ethnic groups being represented. For whatever reason I, and later we boys, were for a time enrolled at Saint Lawrence School on Camp Street. At that time my father operated an Atlantic Service Station at the corner of Camp and Center Streets. I suppose that because of the proximity of his business to both the school and the church and the fact my Dad and his brother were more than a bit friendly with Father Soucy a priest that resided there was a contributing factor. [I believe that their families were from either the same or neighboring villages in French Canada.] Well anyway, Father Soucy was the curate at Saint Lawrence Church and therefore headmaster of the school. Both the church and school were comprised of a mostly French-speaking congregation. These two facts more than helped to tip the scales and load the deck. Consequently, we went to Saint Lawrence School. Of the time spent at Saint Lawrence, I have some great memories and a few that are not so great. The one story that stands out to me like the proverbial shining star is that of a very special adventure ride home from the school one beautiful spring day on the bus. As a child in kindergarten I was transported to and from school by either one of my parents. We were considered fortunate because not only were both parents licensed drivers, but we also had two cars. During that time, at least in our neighborhood, families with more than one car were not that common an occurrence! Now the part of how I began riding the bus alone while in the first grade is a bit fuzzy. I do know that I rode to school in the mornings with Mom, Dad, or our "Aunt Beverly". [Aunt Beverly was a "stray" that my parents took in. She lived in our home and helped my mother care for we four boys for a period of several years.] With one of them at the wheel, rain or shine, I was chauffeured daily cross town to school. The ride home once spring was upon us was an entirely different story. On school days the jaunt home was via public transportation. In Meriden in those days there were two forms of bus transport to and from school. One either rode on the McMahon Bus Company bus, known as the "School Bus", or "The Bus" which was run by the Connecticut Company. I went to "Catholic School" so I rode "The Bus". Now please keep in mind the fact that the time of which I speak is the spring of 1956 which would have made me seven years old. I along with schoolmates of various ages would line up single file in front of Saint Lawrence School and wait for "The Bus." We stood and waited in a very orderly fashion. This was due to the fact that one of the "Sisters" diligently watched over us. Like clockwork just before "The Bus" arrived, Officer George Geere would magically, it seemed, appear on his colossal motorcycle in his uniform consisting of shinny high black boots, blue jodhpurs, and a magnificently starched shirt which was festooned with various patches. On his breast pocket he wore a gleaming badge that topped off his meticulously starched shirt. Atop his head was his "policeman's" hat which seemed to tilt ever so slightly. Between his clenched teeth was a wonderfully loud ivory whistle that was attached to his shirt at the pocket by a long black lanyard. Officer Geere would dismount his magnificent mechanical steed, walk proudly to the center of the street, whistle at the ready, and raise his gloved hand high commanding all vehicles to stop. Then and only then, upon the piercing chirp of his whistle, and the motioning flick of his wrist would we file onto the bus in an orderly manner. We would deposit our money into the pay box [I think the fare was fifteen cents], and ask Mr. Beuadry the bus driver for a transfer so that when we changed buses downtown we did not have to pay again. We then calmly sat down in our seats. The first part of our bus ride was rather short. We would go from the front of the Church to the light at the corner of Camp and Center, turn right to the intersection with Pratt Street, take that right and proceed to East Main Street. There we would take another right for the distance of about two hundred yards. The bus then took a turn to the right again and stopped across the street from the Railroad Station on State Street. I remember that at the time there was a two storey building at that corner of the block. The shop on the first floor was occupied by a cobbler or shoemaker. In my mind's eye I can still see two of the signs that were displayed in the window as if it were yesterday. One read, "We Block Hats," and the other proclaimed "Shoes Repaired and Shined". I am not certain but I think that there was a roller skating rink above it on the second floor! [For some reason or other I have recollections of a steam pipe spewing its damp fog from somewhere along the side of the building.] There we would get off the bus and wait for direction from Officer Geere who always seemed to "beat" the bus and be there waiting patiently, yet intently for we children to arrive. With the chirp of his whistle and a motion from his gloved hand, then and only then, did we cross the street. Once we crossed, again we stood attentively by the railroad tracks until yet another officer signaled to us that it was safe to cross over the double sets of rails. Once on the other side we proceeded up the slight incline to the corner of West Main and Colony Streets. At this point, I would sometimes throw caution to the wind. Theoretically I was supposed to cross at the traffic tower. Remember the traffic tower? [For those of you that are not familiar with this symbol of Meriden's bygone era the "Traffic Tower" was simply that, a squat wooden tower erected at the crossroads of the downtown. An officer would enter the tower via an iron ladder from below through a trap door. On its four sides were the various colored traffic signals. From this vantage point inside near the top a patrolman would sit and operate the light system.] The rule was that I was to go directly - and I do mean directly - across West Main Street to the Palace Block side and stand around the corner on Hanover Street [at that time Hanover Street was a two way street] and wait for the bus to South Meriden. But if I had a few pennies and was a bit adventurous I would quickly cross Colony Street and scurry into Liggett's Drug Store, belly up to the candy counter and buy two or three cents of my absolute favorite candy in the entire world, "jujubes"! The woman behind the counter would dutifully scoop up and weigh out the treasure and then deposit it into a crisp white bag. She would collect my money and off I would dash out the doors on the opposite side of the store via the "short cut". The store was located on the corner and it had entrances on both Colony and West Main Streets. I would then stand nervously at the crosswalk and wait until the officer who was stationed in the "Traffic Tower" stopped the cars and trucks that seemed to be coming from every which way. In my mind it always took an eternity for the officer to blow his whistle allowing me and everyone else to "cross-over" to the Palace block side. Remember that this was the mid-fifties and that downtown Meriden around three o'clock in the afternoon was really jumping! Once on the other side of the street I would race around to the Hanover Street side hoping to have beaten the bus or be there to catch it in the just the nick of time. If you missed the bus, the wait for the next trip to the village seemed to a first grader to be interminable! Well on this particular day, my recollection is that "lady luck" had showered me in her loving light. The sun, it seemed, was shinning down upon me and me alone. I rested my back snugly against one of the storefronts on the Hanover Street side of the block. Both of the cheeks of my mouth, as well as the pockets of my uniform pants were bulging with those wonderful "jujubes". On this day, my dad had more than likely given me a whole quarter to take the bus. Remembering that the price of the bus ticket was only fifteen cents, meant that I had a whole dime to drop down and order "ten cents worth please". Now at the time ten cents was to a boy of seven a small fortune! There was a smile on my face, contentment in my belly and most importantly the thought of adventure on my brain! I stood waiting with my right hand clutching my bus transfer. The fingers of my left hand were buried to the knuckle busily rolling about within the confines of the paper bag constantly fiddling with my sumptuous candy treasure. Right then and there, I decided that today I would go for it! I had been working on this plan long enough! Yes siree Bob today was the day! After all, I was old enough! Haven't I been crossing from State Street, over the tracks, up to the Traffic Tower in and out of Liggett's, then all the way across the Palace Block and onto the South Meriden Bus up Hanover Street and then up the big, big hill, [Columbus Avenue] and gotten off all by myself and then made my way home successfully more times than I could count? Well hadn't I? I will admit that in the beginning, the trek from the bus stop to the house was more than a bit confusing. I confess that there were some rather menacing overhanging monstrous trees that did all that they could to block out the sun. Added to that were a couple of dreadfully long straightaway's and two sort of tricky turns, for a boy of seven. Well you be the judge! As time went on, however, I had even invented a few short cuts of my own. I now had the trip down to a science. I had the walking to the house part down pat. Well hadn't I? I certainly did! Continued in the July Issue
The submission deadline for our July "Summer Fun" issue of THE PEOPLES PRESS is June 28th. Email your stories, news and events to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos and celebrations to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com. If we can help in any way please call 203-235-9333. Celebrations - Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com. It's FREE to share any celebration in The People's Press
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Page 24 June 2010
MID-WEEK OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT COMES TO DOWNTOWN MERIDEN
CELEBRATIONS
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.
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Boy Scouts of America at 2010 First Aid Spring Camporee What do a mechanical tiger, a knight, remote control boats, 1,500 Clif Bars and Congressman Christopher Murphy all have in common? They were all part of the BSA Sleeping Giant District's 2010 Spring Camporee, held on May 14 16, 2010 Over 675 Scouts and Scouters from Meriden, Southington, North Haven, Hamden, Wallingford and other towns camped at Hubbard Park in Meriden for the weekend. This First Aid themed camporee helped kick off National Emergency Medical Services Week in Connecticut. Hunter's Ambulance in Meriden was one of the primary sponsors of the camporee and they reached out to EMTs and Paramedics to provide training to Scouts for the First Aid Merit Badge. Additional first aid activities were offered to older scouts who had already earned this Merit Badge. Cub Scouts, family members and the public also attended the event on Saturday. Activities included shuttles up to Castle Craig, fishing in the lake with fishing poles donated by Cabelas, radio controlled boats, Soap Box derby racing and a variety of Scouting, military, emergency preparedness and first aid related displays. Dan Deluca, author of the Old Leatherman - a true story about a hiker in Connecticut from the 1800's, led a trek to a cave that the Old Leatherman used. Congressman Christopher Murphy, representatives from the City of Meriden and Connecticut General Assembly, along with the Connecticut Yankee Council executives and Board of Directors participated in a dedication-recognition ceremony. Adult volunteers who recently completed Scouting's Wood Badge leadership development training course were also honored.The Show was held on Saturday night in the Hubbard Park Band shell. Performers include The Quinnipiac Dancers, a Native American Dance Team, part of The Order of the Arrow Scouting Honor Society; Scouting videos by Dave Lyons; The Fuse, a Youth Rock Band; "Magic Mike" Gagne and The River Street Band. As part of the camporee, the district completed several community service projects including… * Clean up project at Hubbard Park - Over 80 Scouts marked trails, cleaned the skate house and picked up trash in preparation for the annual Daffodil Festival. * Food Drive - Scouts brought canned food to the Camporee, and the donations were delivered to the food pantry in their own town. * Liberty Elm Memorial Project - 16 Liberty Elm trees were planted by the Achewon Chapter of the Order Of The Arrow, Scouting's Honor Society at the William 'Bill" Dunn Sports Complex in Meriden. This project is supported by the Meriden Rotary Club. * Public Safety Boards were built for the City of Meriden * Castle Craig & Hubbard Park souvenirs were created and were sold by Scouts at the Daffodil Festival and Camporee with extras to be donated to the City of Meriden Congratulations to the planning committee and all of the volunteers for this special 100th anniversary celebration. We extend a special thank you to the City of Meriden, CT for allowing the Scouts to use Hubbard Park and Castle Craig for this event and to all of the sponsors and supporters.
Happy First Birthday Alexis Rose!We love you to bits!! Love and hugs Mommy, Daddy, Eddie IV, and Connor
CELEBRATIONS
Happy Father’s Day - I love you so much! Love, Bethany
CELEBRATIONS
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!
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CELEBRATIONS
Free Photo Form Send One to a loved one!
I couldn’t ask for a better dad then YOU! Love, Gabriel
Girls Inc. Summer Fun
CELEBRATIONS Daddy, I love you with all of my heart and soul. YOU are the best! Love, Alyssa
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Deadline for our July issue is June 29th.
Registration for Girls Inc. 2010 Strong, Smart, and Bold Girls Summer Camp is under way. In person and on-line registration is available. The 9week summer camp offers a variety of activities for girls entering kindergarten thru age 15. Swimming, arts and crafts, and much more! The camp runs from 9am-3pm Monday- Friday and also offers before and after camp care for an additional fee. Financial Assistance is available to those that qualify. For more information please visit Girls Inc. at 130 Lincoln St., call (203) 235-7146, or visit us online at www.girlsincmeriden.org
Page 25 June 2010
"Sheltering an Animal's Perspective" by Gregory M. Simpson Living with a companion animal means needing to be mindful of safety hazards, in the same way one would "child proof" a home for a young child. Dangerous items such as pills, including vitamins, diet pills, and aspirin, should be stored where a companion animal cannot access them. In the laundry room, one should secure bleach, fabric softener, detergents, and disinfectants. In the kitchen, oven and drain cleaners should be carefully stored. Close washer, dryer, and dishwasher doors when not in use. Never let a dog or cat eat any of the following: avocados, chocolate, coffee, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, alcohol, salt, fatty foods, candy, tea leaves, or raw yeast dough. Make a list of household items that could be harmful, keeping in mind animal related products such as flea and tick applications. Anything not ordinarily ingested by animals could be harmful, such as mothballs, tobacco products, and liquid potpourri. Plants are another category of potential hazards. Secure a list of poisonous plants from the internet or a local poison control center. Ensure that companion animals cannot reach them, or better still, give them away. There are literally dozens of plants on these lists. Some animals will eat anything small enough to fit inside the mouth. So beware of items like bread twist ties, buttons, coins, paper clips, plastic wrap, rubber bands, jewelry, hairpins, cotton swabs, string, yarns, and dental floss. Watch for potential trouble spots in the home. Small animals can drown in full bathtubs or sinks. As a child, I once had a companion parakeet almost drown from falling into a glass of water! An animal may be electrocuted by biting or chewing an electrical cord, or strangle from entanglement in cords. Companion animals may get sick from eating fireplace ashes. Close toilet lids as toilet water is not healthy for animals to drink. Make sure all windows have screens. Outside the home are multiple potential dangers, including antifreeze, de-icing salts, gasoline, oil, pesticides, compost algae, swimming pools, and hot tubs. Animals can also be hurt or strangled if stuck in fences, gates, or deck lattice. In addition, there are traffic and wild animals with which to contend. Even sun exposure is a consideration. Skin cancer is the second most common cancer in cats and the sun plays a large role. A 2001 Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) study found that two out of three veterinarians recommend keeping cats indoors, to avoid dangers ranging from vehicles to disease. Be especially mindful around holidays. Watch flowers and candy on Valentine's Day, fake grass, small toys and plastic items at Easter, and fireworks on the Fourth of July. Halloween means candles and candy, while Thanksgiving brings bones and hot containers. Christmas plays host to hazards such as toxic plants (e.g., holly, lilies, and mistletoe), ribbons, spun glass, Christmas tree water, decoration hooks, Styrofoam, tinsel and ornaments. Of course, New Year's brings balloons and confetti. Have fun, but exercise due caution. If your companion animal is ever exposed to a poisonous substance, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control can help at 1-888-426-4435. Consult with your veterinarian for follow-up care. Enjoy - but be mindful of the environment you create for your companion animal. For the animals, Gregory M. Simpson Gregory Simpson's animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers' Association.
CELEBRATIONS
Happy Father’s Day! I love the time we spend together. Love, Jimmy
CELEBRATIONS
Father's Day By MacKenzie Experts agree that your first word is daddy. Your dad takes care of you to besides your mom. Dads are great to have to help you in your life. Characteristics a dad should have are loving because your dad always loves you because you're his kid. Another one is responsible because they need to watch you incase you get hurt and need to go to the emergency room. Another one is caring because they have to care for what goes on at school and in you social life. My dad is the best because he takes me and my friend's places like the mall and the park. Also he plays catch me so I can practice for softball. He is always nice to me and is never in a bad mood. Even though he works two jobs and I only see him on the weekend because he gets home late at night. He is still fun and nice. Father's day is very important because it's a day to appreciate your dad for all he has done for you in your life. Also you should help him out more on Fathers to show that you care about him. You should show him that you really care for what he does for you. Mostly everyone has a dad that cares for you in some kind of way. No matter what you still have someone in your life that cares for you. Xoxoxo!!
Father's Day By Lilli Have you ever met my dad? Well if you have not yet I can describe him. He is very nice he has two kids me and my brother. Dads are very helpful. They help you with your homework, they spend time with you and they care about you. The most important part is that they love us. That is the reason why I love my dad. My dad doesn't live with me but I go with him sometimes because he works a lot. I love my dad and my brother my only brother. My dad always tries to impress me and when I go to his house he plays with me and my 3 year old brother. My dad works very hard to get things for me and my brother. My dad works in a company called Allied in New Britain.(my whole family lives there except me) That company is a moving houses company. The trucks are orange. My father's job is very fun because he gets to travel around the world moving houses.(traveling for free but getting paid). My father is the best. I love that he care's about me and my brother. Sometimes I don't see him for weeks but I still love him. Dads are awesome and my dad is the best. I love my dad and also I love my mother.
Happy First Father's Day to my son Marc and wonderful grandson, Caeden! Love, Mom and Grandma
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My Best Dad Ever! By Yaraliz Wouldn't you believe that there are three ways I like my day are best dad ever, play, and be calm ? Best dad ever you would be excited to learn that I have the best dad ever because when I clean up he buys me some clothes for next year and I love my dad just the way he is. Another one is sometimes he plays with us. He plays jump rope with us, he plays bike with us and he play darts with us when no one is here. Another detail is he calm down sometimes my dad calm down when he watch TV, he also does is lies down and he go to his room and sleep. I am finished so I hope you like my essay my main idea are best dad ever, play and calm
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Page 26 June 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. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our July "Summer Fun" issue is June 28th!
CELEBRATIONS
Grandpa Joe, Happy Father's Day!!! Hugs & Kisses, Andy, Linda, Evan & Garrett
CELEBRATIONS
Meriden School Readiness Facilitator Jessica Stewart poses with Rep. Cathy Abercrombie (D-Meriden), one of four legislators to receive a Special Recognition from the CT Early Childhood Alliance on May 26 during its annual "Children's Champions" event. House Speaker Christopher Donovan was named the Alliance's "Legislator of the Year" for 2010.
Life along the Q River‌ An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association June 2010 - QRWA Butterfly & Bee Garden It started out as an idea when JoAnne Grabinski was walking her dog, Snip. She was working on her Master's degree and one of the many requirements was to do a research project. She thought a butterfly and bee garden would be nice, since both insect families have been experiencing hardships recently. Butterflies, especially monarchs, are losing their natural meadow habitats containing milkweed, a primary food source, to developers as well as their winter residence of fir trees in Mexico. Bees too, have been having troubles with Colony Collapse Disorder, or CCD, a condition which causes them to mysteriously abandon their hives for no apparent reason. Between the two of them, they account for up to 33% of the pollination of our fruits and vegetables and are a key link in our food source production. The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association came to the rescue by enabling JoAnne to have the Butterfly & Bee garden on the headquarters' property on Oregon Road in Meriden. President Ginny Chirsky has been wholeheartedly behind the effort saying, "While we are an organization whose primary mission is to protect, restore and enjoy the Quinnipiac River, this garden enhances our future Environmental Education Center that sits right on the shores of Hanover Pond. Addressing the decline of butterflies and bees is another example of how we need to protect and nurture our environment." One of the benefits of the garden is its location; it's nestled between two popular linear trails, one paved and the other natural. People have to walk right by the garden to walk the Gorge trail and that has proven to be beneficial to many. It is JoAnne's hope that walkers will take a slight detour to spend some time in the garden for inspiration, reflection and conversation. JoAnne worked diligently and her efforts were rewarded in numerous way. She received a $2,500 grant from Yankee Gas Services and has gratefully used those funds to establish the garden. Donations of many kinds came in to help make this a community effort from the fencing, to the mulch and compost to trap rock to the bird baths to the loaning of professional equipment to the many plants from growers and individuals. Others donated their time and talents, most notably Frank Basch for the whimsical sign and all-around muscle and Melissa Haseley, certified master gardener, who designed the garden and complied the plant list. JoAnne had the opportunity to speak to several Meriden organizations including the Rotary, Kiwanis, Senior Center, Linear Trail Advisory Committee, South Meriden Lions and the Red Hats. Many organizations and their members contributed to this effort. Many thanks goes to Dan Adamik of Meriden's Venture Program, where students and staff created 64 incredible stepping stones and one beautiful insect themed stone for the entrance. The creativity is amazing and the stones will add so much to the garden. Other groups have contributed to the project including a bench from the Meriden Intermediate Club, a rustic bench crafted by St. Mary's Boy Scout Troop 28 under the direction of Gary Scranton Jr. and an arbor by QRWA board member Marty Mador. The project began with staking the garden's perimeter; a 50' x 50' square, then the design was painted on the ground and was edged to establish the garden beds. Next 30 yards of compost was spread to smother any weeds and create the beds. Several weeks later the garden was planted by volunteers on two consecutive days with purchased and donated plants. "This has been a wonderful project to work on," states JoAnne. "I'm amazed at the generosity of the community to make this project become a reality. With so many people contributing just one small thing that together we have created a delightful place for insects and humans alike." She describes that is garden is a perfect example of the 'Butterfly Effect', where one small change can have a huge impact on an area. QRWA Executive Director Mary Mushinsky adds, "This garden enhances the biodiversity of the Dossin Beach area and is a living reminder of the importance of these pollinators to a healthy environment." Melissa Haseley, QRWA member and master gardener commented, "It'll take a good three years for the garden to be fully established, but it looks great right now." A variety of plants were selected including native, perennials, annuals and herbs for their varying bloom times and needed sources for larva and nectar. Volunteers are still needed to water, weed and mulch the garden. If you are interested in physically helping with the garden please contact JoAnne at 203-235-0775 or through the QRWA website, www.qrwa.org. We will continue to accept plants and monetary donations. JoAnne submitted her final paper and expects to receive her degree this summer and encourages you to stop by and visit the Butterfly and Bee Garden. Upcoming QRWA Events: QRWA Annual Flea Market - date to be announced. Either buy a table to sell your own items or stop by to see what treasures you can find. Please check web site for details www.qrwa.org. 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 deductable.
My Dad
Now is the time to book Ruth for all of your 2010 Events.
By Joe I think my dad is the best because he always hangs out with me. Me and my dad have the same name Joseph Charles Sweeney he is Jr. and I'm the third. My dad teaches me stuff when we fix one of our cars. Me and my dad have the same dream, wining the lottery. Me and him always love to play Frisbee golf. We love to go bowling. My dad sometimes tries to skate board. My dad is good at a lot of things. My day can throw a Frisbee over 200 feet. Me and him sometimes do go carts he always beat me. Him and I always when he is home we do yard work. My dad is really brave. He always kills what can harm us like yellow jackets because I get an allergic reaction when I get stung it swells up. He kills a lot of giant spiders in or basement. My dad was and will be there for me forever. I love him so much I'm lucky he is my dad like him.
Page 27 June 2010
Father's Day
Frugal Living: Getting More for Less in Connecticut
By Alex Hi! My name is Alex what I think is a great dad is that they are always their for you and when you need him and also listens to your problems when you are sad. He always understands you and should sometimes play with you or help you too. What I would do on father's day is tell my mom to cook my dad's favorite food and then when my mom is done cooking the great food for my dad. Then I would go with my mom to the mall and buy him a present I would buy him an American eagle then by the time we get home it should be like 7:00 and then my dad would get home from work. Then me and my mom would turn off the lights and he would open the door and we would yell happy fathers day and he would say thank you and he would also say I love you guys we would all say we love you too. We would all seat at the dinner table and I would tell him I told mommy to cook your favorite food and he would say yes thank you Alex I love you and I would say I love you too. Later when we are done I would give him his new shirt he would say I love it and I said your welcome then we would go to sleep and I would say until tomorrow. That's what I would if I had a dad I would do all that if I did.
By Gina Juliano I have to be honest and say I shudder at how expensive bread can be. I can't believe that "good bread" - the kind with whole grains and seeds - can run as much as $4 at the grocery store. Even on sale, bread, in my opinion, is still expensive. I suppose I could buy the really cheap bread at Walmart, but I don't really care for it. I'm spoiled and fussy and I want good bread. I also know I could cut costs by making my own bread, but that's not always convenient; and I find that home made bread sometimes isn't what I want for my sandwiches. The answer? Outlet stores. Just to dispel any fears, the bread and other merchandise in outlet stores is perfectly good. There's nothing wrong with the products even if the date on the package is one or two days expired. Bread, unlike meat, will last quite a bit past its due date. The outlet stores have to adhere to the same health and food prep standards as the regular grocery stores, so they cannot and will not sell you bad products. Recently, I took a trip to my favorite Freihofer's outlet. I was able to get a bag of Fritos, two loaves of white bread, two packages of bagels, one loaf of Cinnamon Raisin bread, two loaves of rye, and two loaves of whole grain bread for $12.13. Basically, that comes to about $1.21 per item. All I do is freeze the bread, and I have it for a month before I need to go back. That's not bad for a family of four. Not everyone has an outlet store near them. Mine, in fact, is about 35 minutes from my house. I don't take a special trip there, as that would defeat the frugality of buying bread at the outlet. Instead, I plan my trips to the outlet around my trips to my friend Coleen's, whose house is just five minutes from the Freihofers outlet store. I see her about once a month, and I make sure I stock up when I am heading that way. If you haven't tried a bread outlet store yet, give it a whirl. Just buy one or two loaves to "test drive" the idea. I'm sure you'll find it's really a great bargain! Free Couponing Classes Meriden Public Library June 29th 6:30 PM 203-238-2344 Wallingford Public Library June 30th 10 AM - 203-265-6754 or contact Gina at ginaskokopelli@yahoo.com to set up a date for your organization (To find a bread outlet near you, visit http://www.bimbobakeriesusa.com or http://www.bakeryoutlets.com/. For more frugal tips, free samples, good deals, and coupons, visit Gina's Kokopelli at http://ginaskokopelli.blogspot.com)
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
The Urban Garden
Servicing Transmissions Since 1952
694 Old Colony Rd. 203-237-4379
People’s Press Crossword June 2010 Answers. Puzzle by Ruth Gordon.
by Ernie Larsen aka "Farmer Ted" I was talking with a couple of people at work about my modest gardening efforts and they were saying they had no space for a garden, well if you look around your property I'll bet you could find a spot for a tomato plant or two. Did you know tomatoes are the most planed vegetable in gardens? This factoid is based on me driving around and noticing how many people plant these so called 'love apples'. Well, anyway - getting to the gist of this article, I noticed that in a new gardening book the author mentions a potting soil garden. Not having a copy of the book I sorta out figured that you must just plant something in a bag of potting soil. Being an experimenter, tinkerer I accepted the challenge. I had a bag of 8 pounds of potting soil, $1.00 at O.S.J.L. and a couple of cherry tomato plants (these were 6 for $1.25). So I figured out the following method for my planting. 1. in the backside of the bag of soil I made around 12 slits with a knife - this is the side that will contact the ground and you always need good drainage 2. then in the center of the bag I cut a hole just large enough to insert the tomato plant - made sure the root ball is secure and place it gently into my auxiliary garden 3. it seems to have 'taken' and I'm keeping it plenty moist as the sun hits the plastic bag and is generating some funky heat 4. for your visual pleasure - see the attached photo; Photos Ernie Larsen/2010 All Rights Reserved
Were not DONE yet!
Wallingford "R" Band Concert Series
"R" Band Concert Series The R Band under the direction of Patricia Lignelli and sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department and the Wallingford Senior Center will present the following performances for the 2010 summer. All concerts are held at the Wallingford Senior Center. Thursday July 8th at Senior Center 6:30-7:45 Thursday July 15th at Senior Center 6:30-7:45 Thursday July 22nd at Senior Center 6:30-7:45 Thursday July 29th at Senior Center 6:30-7:45pm
With the Sale of the NEW CASTLE CRAIG T-shirt created for the City of Meriden & Parks & Recreation RIGHT NOW $15.00‌. $5.00 will be donated to THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY "Relay for Life" There were Only 288 created and signed by the artist Sizes vary so, Provide your 1st & 2nd choice of sizes and colors; Royal Blue, Dark Blue, Gray, Pink, Dark Pink, light purple, Dark Purple, Tan. Yellow is in youth sizes only Black is also available- though special for those Guinness Nights on the Back Deck PLEASE STOP IN AT THE HUNTER'S TRAINING CENTER or Send a Purchase Confirmation stating "I WANT ONE"
COMFORT KEEPERS WALLINGFORD Carol Carbutti - Owner 157 So. Orchard St., Wallingford 203-697-1030 carolcarbutti@comfortkeepers.com www.comfortkeepers.com
Comfort Keepers Wants to Wish all Dads a Happy Father's Day by giving them the gift of
TIME!
You will receive 6 free hours of in home non-medical service with mentioning this ad and signing a contract of 12 hours or more per week. Offer is valid for the month of June only. We are an in-home, non-medical care giving, staffing agency.
Page 28 June 2010
AMERICAN RED CROSS BABYSITTING CLASS
The Wallingford Fireworks
AGES 11-15 YEARS OLD - FRIDAY JUNE 25, 2010 9:00AM-4:00PM at the MERIDEN YMCA located at 110 WEST MAIN STREET $29.00 Full Meriden YMCA Member $59.00 Program member (Must be registered by June 18th) Includes: Babysitter'sTraining Handbook, DVD & Emergency Reference Guide. Contact Carrie Marquardt @ 203-235-6386 ext. 18 or cmarquardt@meridenymca.org
By Jason Zandri It all started for me with an article in the Record Journal on April 6, 2010 "Wallingford: No funds for fireworks." (I have it cross posted on my blog at http://zandri.net/Blog/?p=710 - case sensitive). The first paragraph reads: "Like last year, Mayor William W. Dickinson Jr.'s budget proposal eliminates more than $30,000 in funding for the town's annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration. But unlike last year, it remains to be seen whether there is sufficient support among members of the Town Council to restore that funding in the town's 2010-11 spending plan." I knew this year was going to be different; I had spoke to many of the members of the Town Council and most indicated they would not be able to support putting them back into the budget even if the money could be found, considering all of the other money matters that were ongoing at the time with the school budget and the town budget overall. My biggest issue is that we did no real planning to save the event. We knew from the year before that the event was at risk because it was cut then too but ultimately restored. I made the poor assumption that whoever was in charge of Wallingford's entertainment, things like fireworks, Celebrate Wallingford, the downtown concert series and the like would be looking into options and alternatives. For one reason or another they were not and no proactive efforts were taken. The hammer came down at the Town Council meeting on April 13, 2010 - the 50 plus year tradition known as the Wallingford Fireworks Celebration would go unfunded for 2010. And then I heard nothing else about it over the next two days. I suddenly realized no one was going to do anything about it and they were resigned to let it end. I couldn't stand by and not do something. I wrote my FROM WALLINGFORD column that week, titled "Pie in the sky? Save our fireworks!" (I have it cross posted to my blog at http://zandri.net/Blog/?p=703 - case sensitive). In it I took issue that no planning had been done to save the fireworks and I challenged Wallingford's citizens with the task to dig into their pockets to help sponsor the event and I asked "Are you up to the challenge?" I felt by sheer numbers that attend the show - estimated to be over 10,000 on the Sheehan, Moran and Highland School grounds and many thousands more that watch from their homes and from the industrial parks - that the citizens COULD save the show if they really wanted to as it effectively worked out to about $3.00 a person. I soon realized two major problems - how to reach all those people and needing someone to lead the effort. I decided if I was going to raise a clarion call that I might have to consider to be a major part of the effort. Since no one was coming forward to lead I did so myself. I soon had help. Craig Fishbein contacted me straight away to see what he could do to lend a hand in the effort I was about to undertake. The two of us along with my father began soliciting donations over the first couple of weeks. Backed by our own donations to open the fund's checking account and a couple of large donations from a couple of business owners and we were over $7,500.00 in the first ten days. We had gotten a long way in a short time but that was all we had - short time. The Mayor did agree to commit the town to the event if all the funds could be raised in advance but this needed to be done with enough time to pull all of the necessary permits and allow for all the proper planning and scheduling. In years past that all needed to be in motion by the first full week of June at the latest. Worse still, I had business travel coming up on that week and my last free day was Tuesday June 1st and that was the new deadline. With 44 days in total and 10 already gone we had an uphill battle to fight that was for sure. I wrote my second FROM WALLINGFORD column that week following week titled " Save Wallingford's Fireworks 2010" On my blog at http://zandri.net/Blog/?p=744 I dedicated it to my kids my kids who don't normally even get to see the show because they spend their summers in Poland with my wife. I wrote "I am sorry little ones that Daddy has been really busy these past 10 days. I will be busier over the next five weeks. I am sorry, in advance, for that too. June 1st is when I have to get this task completed; it is the same day that I will be dropping you off at the airport and I won't see you again after that until August 29th. I will make it up to you - I promise. The life lesson here is fight for the things you believe in and never quit until you complete the task or have otherwise exhausted all options." I meant every word and I live that every day of my life. In the remainder of the article I again asked for people's help and asked them if they were up to the challenge to restore this tradition. The outcome was enormous over the next 24 days and we hit the total needed to save the event with 10 days to spare. I get a lot of thanks from everyone for saving this celebration. I try to remind people that it was not a one man show and I couldn't do it without support. They thank me none the less and say "while that's true someone had to lead; thank you for taking charge." I try to gracefully accept that. Now let me take the time to thank you Wallingford. Thank you for stepping forward with your donations - without them this effort would not have succeeded. Thank you for getting us over the finish line with 10 days to spare as those 10 days went back to my children as they got their father's spare time back. Thank you Wallingford businesses that stepped up with larger donations. Thank you as well to the few citizens that did this too. In a tight economy this is doubly amazing. Thank you for having the faith in me to be able to see this through. Even at times when I stumbled and had some doubt, now that the ball was rolling, you were not going to let me fail. Thank you for helping me prove that if there are enough of us on the same page we can chart our own destiny after the road has been laid out before us. Thank you for being "Wallingford" - a large town with progressive people whose hearts and minds make a community that is envied by many all over Connecticut. Thank you again and I'll see you at the fireworks.
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'beans'. I was amazed at her commitment to those beans because most kids her age went from one task to another in a short span of time. Lunchtime was called and she was settled into her high chair eagerly wanting the beans. After one look at them, she pushed them away and we saw her crestfallen face---which was so perplexing. Her refusal to eat led her daddy to lift her up with the admonition; 'no tantrums at the dinner table'. She was put her into her crib and told to sleep it off. Later in the afternoon we were at her toy box when she lifted her Easter basket and held up an empty plastic Easter egg to me, saying "Beans". Light dawned and my spirit was crushed. The faith she'd had in me to turn string beans into jelly beans really unnerved me and I held her closely. We took a walk to the neighborhood store in search of jelly beans, but found none. They had not yet been replenished after the Easter holiday. It was time for us to cuddle with her book of favorite stories. She's 30 years old now, but I still tuck jelly beans into her gift boxes. Dorothy Gonick
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 or visit www.flceter.org. Never raise your hands to your kids. It leaves your groin unprotected. --Red Buttons
Page 29 June 2010
The lovely month of May…… ……….a musing by Ernie Larsen WOW, another month passed - where did it go? Wait a minute, remember. Half of it washed away in those ridiculous rain spells that happened at the most inopportune times, like weekends. And I'm getting a bit tired of hearing, it's New England you know, the weather changes almost minute by minute - well, here's a shout out to Mother Nature - STOP!!! Enough with the unsettled weather, about time we got back on track and had some consistency in our weather pattern, Ands that's all I'm going to say on that subject - as we all very well know, you can talk all day about the weather, but it is its own being and no one can do anything about it - so there, I do feel a little better about the minor rant, however it just started to drizzle, I guess that's just MN rubbing my nose in it, eh? So, May was a pretty interesting month - no? We were pretty busy, my son-in-law threw a 50th wedding anniversary shindig for his parents at he and my daughter's home, really nice party - lots of people, camaraderie and of course, good food. Then there was my first fishing outing and this year it was a bit sweeter than ever, being 65, my license now is on a no charge basis and it couldn't have come at a better time -just as our state 'representatives' doubled the fee for fishing, hunting and trapping licenses - WHY they thought they could generate a significant amount of revenue in this manner - possibly only a politician could explain this folly to this outdoor enthusiast. There is a positive ending to this flap - the General Assembly/DEP reduced the pricing of the license fees and will issue a credit those who paid the higher amount when they renew their license next year. So, getting back to fishing, met my friends Ron and Denise at the Salmon River on a Friday - for Ron's b-day fishing trip, an annual outing for us. Started in the fly fishing only area and really were crowded out by some newer to the sport who haven't gotten to the etiquette part of the rule book yet. So we wandered over to the other side of Rt. 16 and went in adjacent to the pavilion at the old Firemen's grounds. I was about in the middle of the very low but fast running river and Ron and his missus had not yet gotten to their preferred spots. My first cast with a blue wing olive hooked up with a 15" rainbow trout, plump and feisty. This was definitely a hold over and as pretty a fish as you'd ever seen. Denise bent her line on a couple and I garnered one more short and stocky brown. And birthday boy Ron got skunked - but as he says, "that's why they call it fishing and not catching". May is also the month the Triple Crown of the sport of King's begins. My brother and I started a bit of a tradition a few years ago, wagering on the Kentucky Derby. And keeping up with that theme, we did so this year. We both hit on the Derby - I made a quite a bit more scoring on an exacta - which paid for all my wagering that day and into the Preakness Stakes, which we now will treat with a moment of silence, ……………. OK back at it and I just remembered, this coming weekend is the Belmont Stakes, a chance to redeem ourselves from the miserable showing in Baltimore and once again try our luck at the Sport of Kings. And speaking of sport, took my granddaughter to the Meriden Lion's Club fishing derby at Baldwin's Pond. The first gift she received from Poppa (me) when she was born was a fishing rod. So we trekked over to BP and signed her up, got to tell you, those Lion's members sure had it planned to the nth degree - and even though my little one did not win any prizes or catch a fish she had a ball casting and interacting with the other 100 or so children whom the Lion's hosted for this fine event; thanks MLC. May is usually the month I plan and plant my garden and after last years' late blight on my tomatoes I decided to start my own from seed. The long and the short of it, a kit I bought from Christmas Tree Shops produced 10 great beefsteak plants while some others I started are still in
their infancy. I did buy some half-dollar cherry tomato plants and also some cucumbers. Did the majority of my planting 5/16. Used a couple of the cherry tomato plants for my hanging pots and a deck plant. So, now it's just wait and see and hope I get enough produce to eat and share. I did plant one of my unique upside down plants in the front yard daffodil garden - lots of sun there, fingers crossed. And now I'm finishing up writing this on Memorial Day weekend - my usual planting day - well that front yard plant went out on Saturday. Had a another nice get-together at my daughter's also on Saturday, lots of food and good company - friends of hers with twins and a toddler, my granddaughter and a couple of boys and another girl her age and my 5 month old granddaughter who I bet was thinking, just wait until next year, they'll be chasing after me. The children had a ball and even though it wasn't really that warm, the allure of a sprinkler brought squeals of joy or was it fear???? And the tire swing is always very popular. The children had lots of fun good to see them interacting so nicely. So the 'unofficial' beginning of summer is winding down - I noticed the publisher wanted some Father's Day stories - just seeing the men/father's of the small children being fathers was enough for me - what more could you ask for than being with your children and lending a hand in their 'growing up' years? And remember, this year Memorial Day fell on the 'day' it used to be - there was a fine parade in Meriden, lots of people out to show their support for the troops now and then (Korea vets were honored this year) - did I see you there?? Remember the freedom(s) you enjoy comes at a price; some have paid big. Next month I'm entering into a new dimension - retirement from full time employment - this will be something different- stay tuned.
My Very Cool Dad By AJ My father is the best because he loves me and he cares about me which I love. I like to hang out with him because he's fun and he always stays and takes me places and gives me snacks. I love him a lot because of that. I love my dad because he is funny and he loves to have fun on the weekends we might go to the movies or something but we like to have fun together. I love my dad because he and my brother like to play catch with the football and the passes to each other and I think every dad should be nice and like to have fun like my dad. My dad played football and it showed him in the newspaper diving to get a tackle. My dad is the best because he was in the military and he retired at a sergeant first class and he was supposed to go to Iraq but he was deployed to a different state so he couldn't go but he had some cool jobs. He had this job that he worked with dog it was called the K-9 unit which he trained the dogs to go to war and he had his own dog named max and Sam they were so cool. I think that my father is the best because of all the stuff he did in the army and I'm very proud to be his son. I hope I can do a lot more stuff with him this year I really do because he is the best dad you can have.
THE ANNUAL PICNIC OF THE E & R U.C.C. WILL BE HELD ON JUND 20TH, NOON TILL 2:30 PM COME AND JOIN US FOR A LITTLE "TASTE OF HUNGARY" For more information please call: Esther at 269-2708 Take hope from the heart of man and you make him a beast of prey. ~Ouida
Page 30 June 2010
LocalMotion
from The People’s Press & YOU!
YO U R L o c a l S t o r i e s YO U R L o c a l P h o t o s YO U R L o c a l N ew s YO U R L o c a l E ve n t s YO U R Tow n YO U R L o c a l O rga n i z a t i o n s YO U R L o c a l B u s i n e s s e s YO U R Fa m i ly & F r i e n d s YO U Always has been...Always will be! LocalMotion - Moving Forward Together!
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Page 31 June 2010
Maggie's Corner Make Up Artist to Celebrities: Daughter of a South African Movie Star; Debra Lee Davidson reveals Her Inner and Outer Beauty of Inspiration. By: Maggie Griffin Debra Lee Davidson, born July of 1967, grew up in the media spotlight. Debra is the eldest daughter of Madeline Usher, The Glamorous South African Movie Star, Model and Beauty Queen and Father Marcus Davidson, an astute and Successful Businessman. Coming from an influential and privileged background, Debra was raised with faith, love, discipline and concrete family values. Debra is the culmination of 2 extraordinary parents "Although I have been around the media most of my life and was in front of the camera from the day I was born ,My parents instilled respect within me and raised me to operate from my heart", said Debra. Debra is an inspiration to all who interact with her. She enlightens the riches in oneself. Debra is often requested by many celebrities to be their personal make-up artist. A few of which include: Stephen Spielberg, Fergie "The Dutchess of York", Kirste Alley, Rosanna Arquette and Amy Brenneman. For the past 21 years Debra has been involved in the entertainment industry and worked on numerous feature films, TV shows and commercials. Her extensive resume includes "Indictment" with Oliver Stone, "American Beauty" "Nurse Betty" and "Four Christmases" "Judging Amy", "Joey" "What about Brian" "The Office", "Grey's Anatomy" and "Dancing With The Stars". She has also done numerous media appearances with celebrities for various talk shows including: THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW": "The Jay Leno Show", "David Letterman Show", "JIMMY KIMMEL" and various media and charity events for Fergie "The Duchess of York". Debra has also had the honor of making many celebrities look glamorous prior to the Golden Globe awards and The Academy Awards. Debbie and her Mom The list is extensive, and why? Because I can tell, just by talking to Debra that she is a professional at heart which truly defines her as one of the top make-up artists in the world. Debra is a positive influence in the lives of many. Although separated by continents, she treasures family values and appreciates the privileges she has been exposed to in life. Her parents and her siblings are her foundation. Talking to Debra, I can sense her kindness and the transparency and love in her heart and soul for many, appreciating life at its best and what life's true gifts are. She loves to live and laugh and have fun. Her appreciation for the finest gifts in life is an appreciation for all living things. A nature lover at heart, she admires animals of all species and spends much time on Safari in Africa. Her treasured dog "Jet" is never more than a few feet away. Debra believes in creative visualization and the importance of having a vision and manifesting dreams into reality, Debra has recently become passionately involved with an exciting company outside of the entertainment indusDebbie’s Mom try called REVOLUCION WORLD WIDE that is impacting and changing many lives. Debra is excited to impact millions of lives as the company launches internationally. Debra's strength of character and inner Faith is what she credits for reaching all of her goals in life. Debra clearly emphasizes: "It's our actions and deeds that show who we are and what we believe. I believe in G-D with my entire being. Faith is what sustains me". I have spoken to Debra several times on the phone and by email, admiringly telling her I can speak to her for hours. I see the benevolent nature within Debra. Debra sets an example of personal inner peace, creating inner beauty as well. You cannot help but be inspired by her confidence and inner strength. Debra holds the upmost respect and adoration for her family. Debra's words: "My goal is to impact and make a positive change in many lives". Debra added; "I absolutely adore and respect my parents. Their essence and love continues to inspire me. It is all they instilled within me that made me who I am today."When I asked Debra what her Secret Ingredient is that brings out her life's inner and outer beauty, she told me in one word "G-D".
Our children are watching us live, and what we ARE shouts louder than anything we can say. --Wilferd A. Peterson Children have more need of models, than of critics. --Joseph Joubert
Wallingford Gardeners 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 from the Southwest Conservation District ‘Focus on Gardening Group.’ An uptown or downtown Business will be featured each week as a special event. Carole and Bob Golitko will continue with breakfast items using vendors’ fresh produce. We are especially looking for backyard gardeners to share their bounty. If you wish to be a vendor, please contact Ellie Tessmer, Market Manager at 203-269-2653 or email at swcd43emt@sbcglobal.net. Deadline for applications is June 15. Please check the website at: www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com for details. Photo: Debbie and Bernice D'Addio from North Haven D'Addios Garden Center
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
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Connecticut Outdoors Written By: Paul Narducci I have been fishing with St Croix Rods for years. I have always enjoyed using their premier spinning rods. These rods offer me everything I need to land a big fish without spending a whole lot of money. Recently I have been using their triumph rods which also offer a great deal with out compromising anything in a fishing rod. For me I need a rod that is comfortable, sensitive and can handle a big fish. When your fishing in tournaments the last thing you need is a rod that hurts after awhile. St Croix has a very interesting story of survival and a dedication to keep true to their beliefs. Located in Park Falls, Wisconsin St Croix Rods has been a mainstay in the fishFrank Russo, who is a member if the ing industry for over 60 years. The Schluter Family has owned St Connecticut Outdoors Team. Croix Rods since the early 1980's but their father Gordon was part owner since the early 1960's. The St Croix name still continues to be one of the biggest in the fishing industry. They have over 350 rods for all types of fishing for saltwater, freshwater, and for those who fly fish. If you have a chance log onto www.StCroixRods.com to find that rod that is perfect for you. Another company I am going to share with you is Ardent Reels. This company started in 2003 and has quickly risen to become one of the biggest reel companies today. I use their spinning reel and truly love them. I match their reel with a St Croix Rod and have the perfect combination. They also offer an extraordinary line of reel products for both spinning and casting reels. They are located in St Louis, Missouri. Ardent is proud to be the only manufacturer of freshwater casting and spinning reels made in the USA. I have stated before you get what you pay for and if your serious about what your doing the investment is well worth it. Both companies offer affordable products that will last along time and have a warranty that stands by their products. If you have a chance log onto www.Ardentreels .com to find the right reel for you. Frank Russo and myself recently had our first team tournament on Candlewood Lake. Although it was our best day of fishing on this lake it wasn't good enough to place in the money. Frank had a wonderful day and caught a lot of quality fish. Frank spent the day using plastic baits such as the Yum Dinger, Gonzo grub and craw papi. I went the opposite way and spent my day using a Stanley spinner bait, Xcalibur rattle bait and jerk bait as well as a Bomber crank bait. The fishing was difficult and the winds were anywhere from 20 to 30 miles per hour which always makes fishing fun. When I went to pre fish candlewood lake it was the best day I would ever have. I simply destroyed them using a Stanley spinner bait and Xcalibur jerk bait and was very confident that three days later I would have the same success. Well, not so fast. Although I did land a beautiful small mouth on a spinner bait and lost a fish worth crying about this would not hold true. The spinner bait bite was off and so was I. After I lost what appeared to be our biggest fish of the year my day took a downhill spiral and I was never able to rebound. This small mouth jumped into the air smiled, I think even winked at me and spit my spinner bait flying into the air as to say not today. After spending several minutes yelling and then a minute or two of silence , I know I just cost us money? The rest of the day remained difficult as I could not get that fish out of my mind. No matter what I know and have read this fish haunted me the entire day. Even as I write this I can't get her out of my mind. What a fantastic fish as she jumped knowing that she would crush my hopes and dreams of possibly winning on a lake that brings sorrow to many and happiness to only a few, it would not be my day. It is this that keeps me coming back for more. I truly love fishing tournaments and for those who haven't experienced this give it a try. As the boating season starts for many the team of Connecticut Outdoors wants to remind everyone to wear their lifejackets. A PFD will save your life and there is no excuse not to wear one. As always we wish everyone the best of luck and good fishing. I'll get her next time!!!!!!!!
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Page 32 June 2010
Daddy's Joke
My Awesome Daddy By Caleb Of course some people agree that my dad is the best dad ever in the history of the world. My dad is the best because of these three reasons 1.he is really funny 2.he is the coolest 3.he always smiles and laughs. I am going to start of with Funny. He is funny because he always pulls pranks on people. For example one time he hooked us an electoral cord to the towel rack and he shocked me with it. You can still kind a see the scar. Once he pulled another prank on my mommy he put a packet of ketchup in his hand he stuck a knife in to it and the ketchup and it squirted all over the place and then he told her. He's very cool because he has a lot of cool cars like the new Shelby mustang 2011. He also has a really big house wit an indoor swimming pool he also has horses once I rode one and it threw me off of it. My dad has the best personality because he always smiles and laughs .
Find A Friend At The Wallingford Animal Shelter!
Angel (white and black) 9 month old and Angela 1 year old (reddish brown) Lion head rabbits. Beautiful and sweet and looking for loving homes. For more information please contact the Wallingford Animal Shelter at 203 204-2180.
Clem is an adorable Boston Terrier that his looking for a new home. He would prefer an adult home or one with older children. Clem is playful and would love you to dote on him. For more information or for an application please contact the Wallingford Animal Shelter 203 294-2180.
Cassie the Rottweiler is a big bundle of love that has a wonderful disposition, loves walks and great on leash. She likes to play with toys and chase balls, then nap at your feet. She is a beautiful pup hoping her forever home is just around the corner because she has lots of love to give. She gets along with most dogs and gives tons of kisses.
Penny is a six month old puggle. She is skittish at first, but once she gets to know you she is a true blue love bug. We are hoping to find her an adult family that will spoil her with lots of attention and love.For more information or for an application please contact the Wallingford Animal Shelter 203 294-2180.
Sylvester is a young, loving and comical male kitty. Let us know if you'd like to meet him or any of his wonderful feline friends. For more information or for an application please contact the Wallingford Animal Shelter 203 294-2180.
For more information on any of these wonderful animals or others we have, please contact the Wallingford Animal Shelter. 203 294-2180.
By Ruth Gordon I ate a quick breakfast on Saturday, then hurried to get showered and dressed. All of us had to be at Harrigan's by seven o'clock sharp. After all, this was an event that would not wait. As I was dressing I thought of how fast the last few days had gone by. Just five days ago, on Tuesday, I had received the long distance phone call from Florida, telling me the news. Wednesday morning was begun with the usual necessary household tasks which I completed with unconscious awareness and then drove to the airport to pick up my mother. She was coming in on the noon flight. I sat in that stuffed waiting lounge for an eternity. Her plane finally landed at three o'clock, three hours late. I drove her back to my house. Late Wednesday evening that incessant phone rang again, this time with more news, "Your father will arrive on Pan Am flight one eighty five, Thursday afternoon at two o'clock," advised the airline clerk in a pleasant professional voice. I thanked her and hung up. Mr. Harrigan was just about to go to bed when I phoned him to relay the message from the airline clerk. He reassured me that he would have his car and driver waiting at the airport when my father came off the plane. Reassuring worried people is one of Harrigan's specialties. He did it again, when I asked about the price of the driver and car, by saying, "Yes, my dear, we charge a flat rate, but don't worry we will settle that later. I will be seeing you tomorrow." It was five o'clock Thursday afternoon, when my mother and I rang Harrigan's door bell. True to his words, his driver had, just a short time earlier, brought my father here from the airport. Mr. Harrigan himself opened the door, wearing that patronizing plastic smile. He ushered us through the front room and into his office. We sat together on the sofa and he took his place behind a small oak desk. Daddy was no where to be seen. Harrigan assured us that my father had weathered the trip home from Florida nicely. We could all see him tomorrow, by then he would be ready to receive visitors. Then we began discussing the plans for Friday's family reunion. Prices and details were thoughtfully worked out, with expert suggestions from Mr. Harrigan. On Friday afternoon we met in Mr. Harrigan's front parlor. We saw Daddy. He looked very rested and quite distinguished in his dark blue suit. We stayed with him all that afternoon. On Saturday morning at seven o'clock sharp, family and friends gathered at the Harrigan Funeral Home to attend the funeral of my father. They carefully followed the civilized barbarism of the modern funeral ceremony, the custom of rented Cadillac limousines, brass handled over priced coffins, and dozens of soon to be wilting flowers. As I sat there in a kind of hysterical serenity, I realized that Daddy was not dead at all. The entire expensive affair had been nothing more than a joke. All the things that had made my father alive; his love, his kindness, his funny stories, his silly songs, and his quiet advice, all of these things were still alive, safely stored forever in my mind, memory and heart. And even Mr. Harrigan, with his satin lined mahogany coffin, could not remove them. Poor Harrigan, what a joke Daddy and I played on him. Fathers' day By Christopher C. What is so great about fathers' day? Well, you get to hang out with your dad. Dad and I like to do stuff on fathers' day. We play video games. Also we go to a restaurant and orders are favorite food. We love to go out side and play baseball, soccer, and football. At the end of the day we have a party and invite all dads and friends and family. It's not just what we do it's what I do for my dad. I would make his favorite breakfast and bring it to him wile he is in bed. The classy way is to make a card and that's exactly what I do for him. Most of all wile he is sleeping me and my grandpa would go bye him a gift. Dad and I would make a cake all together. I have a terrific dad and I am proud he is my dad. He is all kinds of stuff. He is vary funny. He is vary nice. Also vary cool. All that makes him the best dad ever, that's why I love my father that is why fathers' day is the best. Every thing we do, I do make father's day the best, and that's why my dad is the best. That's all makes fathers day the most coolest, funniest, and the best of all.
Page 33 June 2010
Special Thanks For Saving WALLINGFORD’S FIREWORKS 2010
Lead Sponsor Record Journal
Executive Sponsor Choate Rosemary Hall
Platinum Sponsors Renata and Jason Zandri and Family Rhonda and Craig Fishbein / Fishbein Law Firm LLC 100 S. Main Zandri's Stillwood Inn
Gold Sponsors
G & G Beverage Distributors INC Len Fasano Kim and Christopher Dellaselva MidState Medical Center Carolyn Massoni
Silver Sponsors
Toby and Susan Rhodes Gouveia Vineyards LLC 1339 Whirlwind Hill Rd Discount Wine and Spirit 71 N.Turnpike Pawloski Auto Body 1145 Old Colony Road
Silver Sponsor
Covanta Projects of Wallingford L. P.
Bronze Sponsors
Zandri's Stillwood Inn LLC 1074 S Colony Rd Kathryn and Geno Zandri Joan and Robert Parisi 23 East Main Wallingford Optical LLC 58 Center Street Yalesville - Wallingford Lions Charities PO BOX 4085 Nicole and Michael Consiglio
Major Advertisers who sponsored a full page ad in our Program Component Engineers Incredible Oil LLC Retirement Plan Associates 265 North Main
And of course it goes without saying that we thank all of individuals and companies, no matter how much you gave, to help make this drive succeed. Thank you for MAKING IT HAPPEN!
Page 34 June 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. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment.
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The Town of Wallingford will not forget… I would like to introduce myself, Jennifer Burns Parmelee, a life time resident of Wallingford CT. Attended Rock Hill School, Dag Middle School and then to Wilcox RVTS. As many parents, I will embrace for our children the upcoming changes to our school configuration. As many others, I plead with the town officials for a year to grow. A year to make reconfiguration a sturdy, well known plan that can set our children an educational baseline of success. I opened a Facebook Group called The Town of Wallingford Will Not Forget. The group has made a public vow to stay more involved with our BOE, Town Council and Mayors beliefs and proposed changes. I personally felt blindsided by reconfiguration. I felt we could have had a larger part of the details that affected so many facets of our lives as town's people and parents. Through research the Town of Wallingford will be reconfiguring 8 elementary schools, where many towns in the past have 2-4 schools. When other towns choose this, they did so as a unit. They had a year to 18 months of parents, BOE members, politicians, transportation experts and school staff debate, research and iron out the fine details before it was rolled out. Parents found out in January of 2010, we only got focus groups and multi meetings by asking and where only told the 'up' side. I had opened a Facebook group back in January called Concerned Parents Wallingford CT Board of Educ. Budget, we found that the first presented cost savings of about 1 million dollars was really 300,000 dollars. We found that many towns, even on a smaller scale reconfigured a 2nd time back to K-5 and some going up to K-6 model after the K2 and 3-5 model had many negative effects. One being a correlation of lower test scores. Parents of the other towns echoed concerned that grade school age children need consistency. So the parents asked, if we have a working model, why are we changing? How many children from other towns had trouble adjusting to the changing schools more often? How will transportation work? As some parents purchased homes to be in walking distance, and now one child may be a bus and one may be a walker? These questions remain unanswered. The day of the finial vote to reconfigure or stay K-5 the towns' people were told the transportation study would be ready the following day and they voted to reconfigure that night. NESDEC, completed a private study for our town, they said in short, it could be done, but to wait a year. (please see the link to the results below) The parents conceded to these findings, most where content with taking the time to it once and do it right. Now the town of Wallingford will reconfigure in less 4 months time of the vote. Eight schools, re-plumbing, moving desks, libraries, supplies and most disturbingly hundreds of Children and Teachers! In mid June Teachers may know which school they will be in, what grade they will teach and many will not have a job at all. I ask that the Town of Wallingford not forget what we have seen in the past 6 month. If you are on Facebook or not, as a parent, a grandparent, or a concerned citizen that you vow to take a greater part in the direction that our town is headed. This does not only affect our children, our teachers and parents. It takes its toll on the entire town! Will this town have less appeal to new buyers, will they not like such quick and unplanned changes? If families are not buying houses, will your home loose equity? Will the wonderful teachers this town attracted want to teach here next year or will they want a more secure working environment? These are the questions The Town of Wallingford will learn the hard way! I strongly hope I am wrong, I would be good with being wrong, but my last question to you all: Did we all decide to take this venture together and who will be most affected? http://www.wallingford.k12.ct.us/uploaded/Board_of_Education/Budget20102011/NESDEC_FINAL_REPORT_5-1410.pdf
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 andy@peoplespressnews.com or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue. Summer is just about here, the kids just about out of school. Hope you all have a safe and fun summer. -June and Flora Dear Housewives, My husband lost his job and sits on the couch all day. What can I do to help him get out of this rut? - Desperate in Meriden JUNE: It is upsetting to be out of work but you need to tell your husband that sitting on the couch won't help. I am sure there are many things around the yard and house that can be done. Doing these things not only gets the jobs done but will give him some self worth as well as keep his mind on something. Becoming a couch potato will not help. Good luck. Flora: First rule out depression. Job loss creates more than just money problems. If he seems depressed, contact his doctor's office immediately. If he is becoming lazy, give him some encouragement. Tell him how much you love and appreciate him for his support over the years. If he needs your help getting a resume polished up, or finding job connections, offer your time and attention to that. Yes, even if you are busy; make the time to help him. June is right on about doing household projects. Best wishes to you and your family. Dear Housewives, What are the best summer camps for kids in the area? - Camp out in Wallingford Flora: The scouting organizations have well-run, affordable options all summer long. Cub Scout Day Camps: www.ctyankee.org/camping/cubdaycamp Boy Scout Camps: www.ctyankee.org/camping/camps Girl Scout Camps: www.gsofct.org/participate/camp/ June: Meriden has a variety of camps. The YMCA has Mountain Mist Camp and the Boys and Girls Club has Camp Cuno. Camp Cuno is the one we are familiar with and my little June loved it. It was well run and they do have bus service from the camp to the club. Wallingford YMCA must have a camp as well. I do know the boys and girls club runs a camp in Wallingford. Good luck with your search. Movie Review. June: Hi Flora, my kids are counting down the days until school lets out. Mr. June and I watched The Blind Side this past weekend. It was a good movie and a nice story although I got the feeling the family was definitely trying to help out a kid who had football potential rather than just out of the goodness of their heart. Even so, who cares, his life turned out great because of them no matter what the motives were. Sandra Bullock was good but I feel the character was not a difficult one to play and perhaps wasn't necessarily an Oscar winning type of character. The girl who played Precious should have won the Oscar, that was a character that was a challenge to play. All and all I recommend it as a good movie. Any up to date ones for you? Flora: Well, I did see The Blind Side and thoroughly enjoyed it. I believe that the mom did care about the person and not the athletic potential of the young man. she didn't know he would be a football player when she opened her home to him. That was my most current/up to date film but we did see the 1961 classic West Side Story last week. Oh, I love the music and everything about it. It makes me snap, just thinking about it! I love musicals!
LYMAN HALL CLASS OF 1968 Class 60th Birthday Party Hard as it is to believe, time is marching on as may of us reach or have reached our 60th Birthday this year. During those years we have faced good times, bad times, opportunities and challenges. We have enjoyed our children, grandchildren and maybe even great-grandchild or two and have seen modern technology change all of our lives. Now is the time to celebrate this milestone of 60 years!!! Join us for a Class Birthday Party Picnic on June 26, 2010 from 1-6PM at the Wallingford Rod and Gun Club (rain or shine) located at 411 No. Branford Road for good food, good fun and good friends. - Cost $25. per person. Contact Dottie Celata (203-265-2268) or email:dottiec693@sbcglobal.net
REGISTER TODAY FOR SUMMER SWIM LESSONS! The Wallingford Family YMCA is announcing it's Aquatic Summer Registration Dates! YMCA members who are enrolling in the same class can begin registering on Mon, June 7th. YMCA Members registration begins Mon, June 14th Community Registration (Non-Members) begins Mon, June 21st.. Classes begin the week of Mon, June 28th. Aquatic Options: Youth (6 months and older) and Adult group classes, Private and Semi Private Adult and Youth Lessons and new this summer; Back yard Swim Lessons. Pre-registration is required due to small student to teacher ratio classes. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover @ lhoover@wallingfordymca.org or (203) 269-4497; ext. 20
Page 35 June 2010
Having a great time and cake too. Sent in the cake maker!
STRAWBERRY FEST at Marianna’s A Bald Eagle At Havover Pond on June 5th. Look to the left of the picture over the island.
PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly seek you from the bottom of my heart to secure me in my necessity. (Make your request). There are none that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Grateful Thanks. M.P.G.
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Page 36 June 2010
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I N C R E D I B L E S AV I N G S ! Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 6/30/10
The Wheel Deal
$2.00 OFF!! 3 for $11.97
3cu.ft. Cedar Mulch WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 6/30/10
3 for $13.47
3cu.ft. Red Cedar Mulch
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 6/30/10
$9.99 Miracle-Gro Potting Mix 2CF
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 6/30/10
Regular Price - $11.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash, Wheel Brite, Sealer Wax and Towel Dry
FA N TA S T I C S AV I N G S !
Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 6/30/10
Interior-Exterior Detail
$5.00 OFF!! Includes: Vacuum, Vinyl Cleaning, Shampoo Carpets and Window Cleaning
C A N ’ T B E AT T H E S AV I N G S ! Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 6/30/10
$3.99 Scotts Seeding Soil 1.5CF
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 6/30/10
$15.99 $24.99 Song Maker or Black Oil Wild Bird Seed 40lb
Safe 'N Simple Pet Friendly Lawn Food 50lb
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 6/30/10
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 6/30/10
846 Old Colony Rd., Meriden 203-237-4414
Bumper to Bumper Detail
$15.00 OFF!! Includes: Exterior Wash, Wax, Vacuum, Vinyl Cleaning, Shampoo Carpets and Window Cleaning! Monday Friday Only
T H E W O R K S AT T H I S P R I C E ? Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 6/30/10