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The Central CT Family Paper! The Power of Positive!

Enter our Father’s Day and Kid’s Coloring Contest in this issue!

By the People . . . For the People Serving Wallingford & Meriden Connecticut. Your Town, Your News, Your Stories, Your Family, Your Life & Your Views! Read the entire paper online at www.peoplespressnews.com May 2008 • Volume 8, Issue 103

Good News: follow us as we GO GREENer! It's been 8 years now that we have had the honor of serving your needs by sharing your heartwarming moments, stories and photos. The moments that make up your lives, the words you want to share and programs that enrich your days have made this paper great. We want to continue to share your lives with you. As you go through changes, so must we. We decided to do the smart thing for you, for our local businesses and for us. We are GOING GREENer and eliminating our direct mail. So the paper will continue and you will find it everywhere around town and I mean everywhere. We will deliver the paper to business locations and as always it will also be available on-line in image form, in downloadable form and in printable form at www.peoplespressnews.com. Cutting out direct mail allows us to cut our ad rates substantially to help business owners when they need it most. Woo Hoo!!! That is the good news! We will continue! We will keep on going for you and allowing you to share. We will continue to promote the good in our community and let you know of city and local events that are important to you and your family. We will continue! I believe that the mission we started together 8 years ago is worth fighting for, don't you?

Photo by Dawn A. Nierenburg-Reynolds

On another note, I would like to pay tribute to my wife Dawn. She is the most incredible person I have ever met. She makes my life worth living and always gives me good news when I need it most. More importantly, she is the best mother - always there for our children. Helping them to grow, nurturing them and showering them with love every second of every day. Thank you Dawn! We love you so much for who you are and what you do every day!

2008

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Page 2 May 2008

COLONIAL WITH VICTORIAN FLAIR Spectacular 2284 sq.ft. Colonial situated in Meriden. Newer one owner home offering 8 rooms, 4 bdrms, 2.5 baths, master suite with air tub, hardwood flooring, phenomenal granite fireplace, den/media room, formal dining room, huge kitchen with granite counter tops/island, wrap around porch, 2 car garage, all set on a 1 acre wooded lot. Everything in this house is brand new. This home is priced at only $430,000.

NEW CONSTRUCTION - ONLY $375,000! Newly constructed Meriden 3 bedroom, 2,275 sq. ft. Elevated Ranch with many upgrades. 3 full baths, granite counter tops and tile throughout, hardwood flooring, formal dining room, sliders, finished grade level basement with fireplace, walk-up attic/bonus room and 2 car garage. There is definitely room to grow in this house.

1,770 sq.ft. Meriden Townhouse offering 3 bdrms, 1 1/2 baths, dining area, ceramic tile, new granite counter tops, patio, central air and more. Buy now and you pick the carpet color.

BRAND NEW COLONIAL - ONLY $279,900! 1,700 sq.ft. Colonial to be built in Meriden. Be the first owner of this home offering 3 bdrms., 2 1/2 baths (including a master bath with air tub), formal dining room, fully applianced kitchen, granite counter tops, tile floors and more. This home will be a beauty and is definitely worth the money.

1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS FOR RENT Meriden apartments for rent. We have 1 bedroom apartments ranging from $695-$725/month. THIS PRICE INCLUDES HEAT AND HOT WATER. No pets. One month's security required. This is a nice, secured building with an on-site superintendent. Hurry, we only have a few apartments left!

ENORMOUS TOWNHOUSE - ONLY $184,900!

HUGE IN-LAW SET-UP Extremely well kept 2,260 sq. ft. (plus) Ranch located on Meriden's east side. This unique home is situated on a beautiful private 1.15 acre lot located at the end of a cul-de-sac and offers 4 bdrms, 3 full baths, huge eat in kitchen with granite/tile, 2 fireplaces, hardwood floors, and marble stairs leading to a finished walk-out basement. This finished basement leads to a covered tiled patio suitable for entertaining. A walk out to the well maintained landscaped yard leads to an in ground pool/pool house, and plenty of flowers, fruit trees and vegetable gardens. It's paradise!!! A builder built this quality home for his family and put his heart into every bit of it. There has only been one family to own his house. This type of home comes up for sale rarely and is being offered at only $450,000.

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Page 3 May 2008

BY Heather

8th Grader at Wintergreen Magnet School What person or event has had an impact on your life? Why is this person or event important to you? My mother has had a very strong impact on me. She has taught me so many things, and I will always remember those things. For one, she has dedicated herself to the Wallingford Emergency Shelter. Since I was four I have worked there, and it has shown me the other side of our world. The people have no homes and some have no jobs, but they still act like they have everything they have ever wanted. But some of their stories of war and life getting older are heartbreaking and I think society needs to do something so that people like my friend Eva, who was 78 years old and living at the shelter because she could not find senior housing does not happen. She also dedicates her life to her kids. She is a single mother with three kids, living in a two-bedroom condo. She has to deal with all of our fights and arguments. She brings us everywhere we need or want to go. She is always thinking of us, even when she is at work. She never has a vacation, when she has a day off of work she has to take care of us and makes sure we get done what we need to do instead. She has taught me how to be confident and hardworking. For example, I took violin when I was younger. I was going to quit because I didn't see the fun in it. She told me that I had to be confident, and she would get me another teacher. Now I am playing violin and viola; and I am working so hard on all of my instruments. I have always wanted to be a scientist; my mother said if I wanted to be a scientist I had to work hard. For any of my dreams I had to work hard for what I wanted. I have worked hard most of my life and I have had so many successes in my life since. In conclusion, my mother is my hero and she has taught me so much. I will always

The deadline for the next issue of The People’s Press is May 24th. Don’t forget to send a Father’s Day Photo Wish or story. Read the whole paper online at peoplespressnews.com

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. H.R.

remember what she has taught; I will also remember her forever. I may get mad at her sometimes but I will never stop loving her. That is impossible for me, no matter what.

HUNGERFORD OFFERS SUMMER PROGRAMS The New Britain Youth Museum at Hungerford Park, 191 Farmington Avenue, Kensington is accepting enrollment for summer programs for children in pre-school through grade 5. Call 860827-9064 for brochure and registration information.

Meriden School Readiness Council The Meriden School Readiness Council and the Meriden Board of Education sponsored a community wide preschool and kindergarten teacher event on April 23, 2008. The event gathered community and board of education preschool and kindergarten teachers together. At this year's annual event, teachers shared literacy activities with each other. Approximately 80 teachers gathered together to discuss how they define literacy instruction for kindergarten/preschool students, some successful strategies used to help students during literacy instruction and shared some literacy activities they have currently worked on in their classrooms. The positive feedback from the events have been overwhelming. The teachers enjoy getting time to meet with each other and share expectations and ideas.

Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible. ~Marion C. Garretty, quoted in A Little Spoonful of Chicken Soup for the Mother's Soul Mother - that was the bank where we deposited all our hurts and worries. ~T. DeWitt Talmage

Page 4 May 2008

The Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department is having a Mother's Day Flower sale on: Friday May 9 from 5:00PM-8:00PM Saturday May 10 from 8:00AM-6:00PM Sunday May 11 from 8:00AM-12:00PM This event will take place at the Yalesville Fire Station 143 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville. Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day! You are the best Mommy in the whole world! I Love You, Abby

Happy Mothers Day

Whalon Scholarship Breakfast

Saint Joseph School, 159 West Main Street, is honored to announce that the Most Reverend Peter A. Rosazza will be the guest speaker at the annual Whalon Scholarship Breakfast on July 17, 2008. Bishop Rosazza, who is celebrating his Diamond Jubilee as a Bishop, is the Auxiliary Bishop and Vicar General for the Hispanic Apostolate for the Archdiocese of Hartford. Bishop Rosazza is a member of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee for Social Development and World Peace; is bishop advisor to the National Catholic Student Coalition; and is one of the five bishops who drafted the U.S. Catholic Bishops' Pastoral Letter on the U.S. Economy and Catholic Social Teaching. The Marion and Dorothy Whalon Scholarship is awarded annually to graduates of Saint Joseph School, Meriden, who are continuing their education at the undergraduate or graduate level. The scholarship has been awarded since 2002, and 30 SJS alumni have been the recipients of approximately $50,000.Past recipients have attended UConn, Western, Eastern, Southern, Connecticut College, Albertus Magnus, Hartt School, Boston College, Tufts University, Smith College, George Washington Law, among others. Marion and Dorothy Whalon were graduates of Saint Joseph School, and lifelong parishioners of Saint Joseph Parish. The Whalons were annual donors to the Annual Fund of Saint Joseph School, and continued the legacy of their gifts with this bequest of an endowed scholarship in honor of the education they received at Saint Joseph School from the Sisters of Mercy. Saint Joseph School, a kindergarten to grade 8, archdiocesan elementary school located near the center of Meriden, is a community in pursuit of academic excellence through a lived experience in faith. The school received a ten-year re-accreditation in 2006 from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.

Twentieth Annual Memorial Ceremony for those Law Enforcement Officers Happy Mothers Day.We love U Mommy.You R The Best. From Grandma Carole Golitko

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This message is to keep you apprised of the up and coming Twentieth Annual Memorial Ceremony for those Law Enforcement Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty in the State of Connecticut since recorded police history in this state. To date there are 128 names engraved on the Connecticut Police Chiefs Law Enforcement Memorial, located on the grounds of the Police Academy, 285 Preston Ave., Meriden, Ct. These names include many Police Officers from various departments throughout the state, including members of the Ct. State Police, the F.B.I., Secret Service, U.S. Customs and the Department of Environmental Protection. The date of this beautiful ceremony is May 21, 2008, at the Preston Ave. Academy. The time is 11:00 A.M. and the ceremony is open to the public. The program consists of many Honor Guards from various Police Departments throughout the state, a Riderless Horse, signifying the loss of a Law Enforcement Officer, the presentation of the Memorial Flag, musical selections by Police Pipes and Drums, the Invocation by our Police Chaplin and remarks by many outstanding public figures in our state including our Governor, the Attorney General, the Comm. of State Police, the Comm. of Homeland Security, S/A In Charge of FBI, the Chief States Atty., etc.

Your mother sees everything you are and everything you will be! She doesn’t need to see us...she only needs to see you!

CHORALE CONNECTICUT SPRING CONCERT The First Congregational Church, 62 Colony Street in Meriden, will be the site for Chorale Connecticut's spring concert on Saturday, May 17th, at 7:30 PM. The 48 member chamber ensemble, 20 piece orchestra and professional soloists La'Tarsha Long, Meredith Ziegler, James Ruff and Colin Johnson, will present Mendelssohn's "Gloria and Magnificat," rarely heard works, under the direction of Dorothy A. Barnhart. In addition, the orchestra will perform music by Frederic Delius. A reception will follow the concert. Tickets: $18 in advance, $20 at the door, $15 Seniors/Students, children 12 and under admitted free with a canned good. Call (203)237-5684 or visit the chorale website at choralect.org.

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Father’s Day Contest

Page 5 May 2008

Enter to win Dad a 1 night Relax-A Away at

We know your needs. Nope, we're not mind readers. We just pay attention. Hotel Services: Room Service Business Center Exercise Room/Facilities Golf Course Nearby Indoor Heated Pool The newly-renovated Four Points by Sheraton Meriden. With a central location at the crossroads of Connecticut, we’re in the middle of one of the fastest growing industrial parks in the state. Quinnipiac University, Yale University, Weslyan University, Gouveia Vineyards, and the Chevrolet (Oakdale) Theater are all a short drive away. Talk about cozy. Come and relax in our comfortable guest rooms featuring the Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort Beds. Or hang out in our newly-opened Yogi’s All American Grill & Sports Bar. Catch the game on one of 14 large or plasma screen TVs. Personal table speakers will make sure you don’t miss a minute of the action. Gather your friends and family and join in the NTN Trivia while enjoying a tasty treat from the family-friendly menu.

2 7 5 R e s e a r c h P a r k w a y, M e r i d e n ( 2 0 3 ) 2 3 8 - 2 3 8 0 There are 3 ways to enter this contest. 1. Fill out this contest form 2. Send in a story/submission 3. Send in a Mother’s Day Photo Wish.

Find this in 10 ads this issue and be entered to win! Fill out the Form completely and send it to: The People’s Press P.O. Box 4459 Yalesville, CT 06492 Attention: Father’s Day Contest

If your entry is correct you will be entered into our drawing! Deadline for all entries is May 23rd, 2008. All subscribers to www.peoplespressnews.com are automatically entered when making a submission. Sign up today!

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Phone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AD #1: __________________AD #2:_________________ AD #3:___________________AD #4:_________________ AD #5:___________________AD #6:_________________ AD #7: __________________AD #8:_________________ AD #9: _________________AD #10:_________________ Limit One Entry Per Person Per Issue.. Members of DNA, LLC and Relations are not eligible to play. Drawing will be held June 5, 2008. Winner will be notified by phone and agrees to have photo and name published. Winner must pick up prizes from participating businesses.

Page 6 May 2008 Page 24 March 2008

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

The Kids Press!

Send to: The Peopleâ€™s Press Kids Press P.O. Box 4459 Yalesville CT 06492 sierra@peoplespressnews.com

Just Amazing Art by Noah R.

Kids Coloring Contest Send in yours for your chance to win 1 of 50 passes to Quassy Amusement Park

Hey Kids, send in your stories, photos or drawings by May 23rd to be in our next issue. Remember to send in your coloring contest entry! Is Proud to Sponsor The Kids Press

Name:________________________________ Address_____________________________________Age:______ The deadline for entries is May 23rd. Please be aware that this is a random drawing. We believe that as long as you try you are a winner and that you have a chance to win. Send your entry to: The Peopleâ€™s Press P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492

5/31/08

Tribute and Thank You

Chocolate (Half Moon) Cookies

Page 7 May 2008

3/4c. brown sugar 3c.flour 3/4c. white sugar 2tsp baking powder 3/4c. shortening 1/2tsp. salt 2 eggs 1tsp. vanilla 1c.sour milk w/ 1/2tsp baking soda 1c. nutmeats (optional) 2 squares melted chocolate (or 4 tblsp cocoa) Drop by spoonsful on greased cookie sheet. Bake @ 350 15 or 20 min. Mom made these for us when we were kids. She would frost them as "Half Moons"by turning each cookie over and frosting the bottoms half white and half chocolate. I melt butter with vanilla and a little water then add confectioner's sugar and beat it until smooth for the frosting. Don't make it too stiff or it won't spread easily. Just add a square or two of chocolate with the butter for the other half. Happy Baking! Donna

ONION SOUP

Semper Fidelis. George E. Smiles - First Sgt. USMC Retired. Happy Mothers Day Ma, Sending you my love and hugs on your ninth Mother’s Day in Heaven! Love always, Rosie Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother's Day to both of my wonderful Grandmas! I love you soo much, Hunter Christian Pageau

Celebrations of Life & Home Thanks for a Wonderful Vacation! Love, Mare, Mare and Grampy

6 - 8 huge onions (Vidalia are best)* 2 sticks butter 5 cans beef broth (or equivalent - not consume)** ½ c. red wine (I like Marsala but you can use most anything-sherry, too) 1 tblsp. Flour 2 tblsp. Sugar Slice onions and sauté in butter until soft (I cover the pan so they don't burn). Put beef broth (undiluted) and wine in large crock pot on low heat. Add sugar to onions and cook for 15 min. Add flour and cook uncovered for 5 min. stirring occasionally. Add onions to crock pot and cook for 8 hrs. or more. The longer you cook it the darker it gets and (to me) the better it tastes. *You can use as many onions as you want. I like a lot of onions. You can let it cook down some (if they won't all fit) and add more. **I've been using a paste called "Better Than Bouillon" beef flavor because all the beef broth I've been able to find has MSG in it. I think I use about 6-7 cups. Just experiment! Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body. ~Elizabeth Stone

Page 8 May 2008

You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back. ~William D. Tammeus Now that... my kids are grown, I understand how much work and love it takes to raise and to keep a family together. The example of your strength, devotion, and patience is now rippling through the generations. Thank you! ~Forest Houtenschil Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day! You are the best Mommy in the whole world! Love, Jonathan

Camps and Special Events! SPORTS CAMPS LACROSSE CAMP Ages 7 - 17 - JULY 7th - 11th 9AM - 3PM Veterans Park Fee: $ 235 Staff: World Class Lacrosse BASEBALL CAMP Ages 7 - 12 - JULY 14th - 18th 9am - 2pm Pragemann Park Fee: $105 Staff: MVP Sports HOOP HOUSE BASKETBALL CAMP Ages 7 - 15 SESSION 1: JULY 28th - AUGUST 1st SESSION 2: AUGUST 4th - AUGUST 8th SESSION 3 (GIRLS ONLY): AUGUST 11th - AUGUST 15th 8:30am - 3:30pm Recreation Department Gym Staff: Mike Papale & Joe Gaetano Fee: $185 (Each additional session $165/2 or more family members $165) SKYHAWKS SPORTS CAMPS Ages 6 - 12 TENNIS - JULY 14th - JULY 18th 9am - 12pm Doolittle Park Fee: $115 GOLF - AUGUST 4th - AUGUST 8th 9am - 12pm Pragemann Park Fee: $115 MULTI - SPORT - AUGUST 11th - 15th 9am - 12pm Pragemann Park Fee: $139 CHALLENGER BRITISH SOCCER CAMPS Ages 3 - 16 Mini Soccer Ages 3 - 5 JULY 21st - 25th 9am - 10:30am Fee: $80 Mini Soccer Ages 3 - 5 JULY 21st - 25th 12:30pm - 2pm Fee: $80 ½ Day Ages 6 - 16 JULY 21st - 25th 9am - 12pm Fee: $110 ½ Day Ages 6 - 16 JULY 21st - 25th 12:30pm - 3:30pm Fee: $ $110 Full Day Ages 8 - 16 JULY 21st - 25th 9am - 3:30pm Fee: $160

Additional Summer Camps Volleyball Camp Middle School and High School Sessions Karate Camp Ages 6 - 15 Play - Well Lego Camp Ages 5 - 9 Play Ground Site openings at (Cook Hill and Pond Hill) Ages 6 11 ASAP, A Summer Arts Program (Drawing, Guitar, Violin, Theater, Photography, Painting, Clay and Sculpture) Choose a different class per block. Stop by the Parks and Rec. for a ASAP Brochure.

TWILIGHT TUNES SUMMER CONCERT SERIES All concerts are held on the parade grounds at Town Hall and begin at 7:00pm July 9th - Blue Agaves July 16th - Changes in Latitudes Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band July 23rd - Latanya Farrell & The Bookman Styles Band July 30th - Skyhoundz Frisbee Dog Competition Doolittle Park August 6th - The Musical Mystery Tour August 13th - The All Star Disco Review August 20th - Airborne Jazz Band Register for all Camp Programs Today At 6 Fairfield Boulevard, Wallingford - 203.294.2120

CITY OF MERIDEN EVENTS

HERSHEY TRACK & FIELD GAMES Youths ages 9-14 are invited to participate in the local contest of the nationwide Hershey's Track & Field Games program taking place on Monday, May 12th at the Maloney High School track. Registration will begin at 5:00PM with the competition to follow at 5:30PM. All participants will receive certificates. Winners will receive ribbons and qualify for the district meet in June. SUMMER ACTIVITIES REGISTRATION & INFORMATION Registration for Summer Tennis Lessons and the two Meriden Nature Camp sessions is underway at the Parks & Recreation office. Information on the 2008 Summer Playground Program & the Spike It! Volleyball Camp can also be obtained. MERIDEN SKATEPARK The Meriden Skatepark, located on the corner of Coe Avenue & Hamilton Street, has the following hours of operation(weather permitting): School Days 2:00PM-Dusk Non-School Days 11:00AM-Dusk INDOOR PUBLIC SWIM PROGRAM May is the final month for the 2007-2008 Indoor Public Swim Program at the Maloney HS pool. The pool's weekly schedule is as follows: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6:30-7:45PM and Saturdays & Sundays from 12:00-3:45PM. Daily updates are available on Recreation Activity Line(630-4279). June 1st will be the final day the pool is open in the current program year. All interested participants must possess a valid 2008 pool pass. Available for purchase at the Parks & Recreation office, passes cost $5.00 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 17 & under. Passes are good for the calendar year in which they are purchased, including the Outdoor Public Swim Program at the Hubbard Park pool. Avoid those long summer lines and get your pass today! CASTLE CRAIG The vehicle access road to Castle Craig is open daily from 10:00AM-4:45PM, weather permitting. The entrance to the road is located under the eastern Interstate 691 overpass in Hubbard Park. SCRAPBOOKING Creative Memories offers scrapbooking daycamps for youths ages 7-14 for ten weeks throughout the summer. Please call 379-8197 to register for this activity or to learn more about hosting a special "Kid's Crop." All materials are provided.

National Immunization Week a Success! National Infant Immunization Week 2008 was honored the week of April 19-26. In recognition of the week, the Meriden Health Department distributed over 70 gift bags with immunization information and goodies to moms in the well-child and W.I.C. (Women, Infants, and Children) clinic. National Infant Immunization Week is an annual observance to promote the benefits of immunizations and to focus on the importance of immunizing infants against vaccine-preventable diseases by age two. At a time when infants and young children are most at risk, immunizations are one of the most important ways parents can protect their children against disease. As of January 1998, all children born in Connecticut were enrolled in a confidential immunization tracking program called CIRTS. If parents have questions regarding their child's immunization record, they can contact Valerie Bryden, Immunization Coordinator, at 630-4251. The Meriden Health Department offers immunization services to Meriden children MondayFriday from 9 am- 4pm. For immunization appointments please call 6304234. We learned about germs and immunizations at the Meriden Public Library!

Page 9 May 2008

An Experiment Called ARGUS by Bob Biancur While serving in military I was temporarily assigned to the Bethesda Naval Research Hospital where I volunteered for an experiment called ARGUS, (Advanced Research on Groups Under Stress) that created unusually stressful environmental conditions. Six subjects from thirty volunteers were selected to live in six tiny isolation chambers. After completing a battery of psychological tests, I was selected to spend seven days in extreme isolation ensconced in what looked like a cozy bank vault. Each of the six cells was soundproofed, and when once sealed, would not be opened again until after the end of the seven-day experiment. We learned to live on a sparse diet of survival crackers, pressurized canned cheese, processed meats, protein pills, and two gallons of water. Lighting, heating, virtually everything was regulated from a control room. All sound and motion were recorded; nothing went unnoticed. So hermetically tight was the seal that I could feel air pressure change when the vault-like door latched closed. What impressed me most the instant the door closed was how utterly dark and eerily quiet my chamber became. I immediately began the process of acclimating to these unusual conditions. I had never experienced darkness and total lack of sound to such a degree. The researchers could hear me, but I couldn't hear them unless they switched on an intercom and spoke in what sounded like a computer generated voice. They never revealed if we were also observed with night vision cameras. The reason I am recalling the ordeal of this psychologically arduous experiment is to share a revelation that I will never forget. Besides being pleased with myself for having endured the entire seven days alone, (although at the time I thought it was longer) I learned it is possible to get new perspectives through meditation. Had it not been for this strange experiment I would not have made some amazing discoveries. After a couple of days in extreme isolation, the mind and body attempt to adjust for lack of sensory input. All of the senses become sharper so that the act of chewing and breathing sound louder, tactile sensation becomes more sensitive, and even the sense of smell becomes more acute to whatever is wafting about in a sensory deprived environment. Biting into a thick survival cracker sounds like a pane of glass breaking, chewing it sounds like a rock crusher at work, and the aroma is reminiscent of dry dog food. I really didn't object to my conditions because we were a nation at war, and our captured soldiers and airmen were caged like animals in huts no bigger than my chamber; the difference being, I wasn't physically tortured and knew I would be getting out in seven days. I soon became introspective and began to meditate, although at the time I didn't realize I was meditating, because I had never done it before. Meditation became a means to occupy my time; it gave me something to do. I became enthralled with the idea of using my mind for a new purpose. While meditating I imagined myself floating to the outer depths of space where there is nothing to see, hear, touch, smell, or taste. I realized how supremely hostile space is to life and how precarious and vulnerable our earthly environment is. It also occurred to me, in a rather profound way, how earth is situated in perfect proximity to the sun as it orbits like a shimmering jewel in an otherwise inhospitable void. Who can say there is no God? I found it easier and easier to turn off the noise in my mind by maintaining a focus. To get to deeper levels I would concentrate on being enveloped by wave after wave of velvety darkness. A point of light appeared in my minds' eye when I reached a certain depth, akin to noticing the first star to grace the night sky, and immediately I would rouse myself with a start. After a few days, I learned to trust this mental exercise and it no longer frightened me. I began to know when to expect that point of light and used it as a marker. I didn't realize it then but I had achieved a relaxed meditative state where I could control the depth of my trance. Continued on Page 10

Free Computer Assistance at the Wallingford Public Library The Wallingford Public Library will be offering free one-on-one computer help throughout the month of May. Individual, one hour sessions will be available at 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Filling out online job applications, setting up email accounts, basic computer skills, internet searching, and software applications can all be addressed. Please contact the library to reserve your spot and specify your area of learning interest: 203-265-6754.

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Bob Biancur during his service to our country.

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Page 10 May 2008

STATE OF CONNECTICUT TAX RELIEF PROGRAM The Wallingford Assessor's office is now taking applications for tax credits for Elderly & Totally Disabled Homeowner's February 1st - May 15th. To qualify for this program applicants must be: 1). 65 years of age by December 31, 2007, the widow/widower age 50 or over of a previously approved applicant, or totally disabled and receiving benefits under a federal, state, or local retirement program (e.g. Social Security Disability). 2). Individual must have lived in Connecticut for one year. 3). Income not to exceed: $29,800 - single $36,500 - married Documents needed for applications: 1). All sources of income for 2007. For example: Social Security Form 1099, wages, commissions, pensions, interest, dividends, proceeds from sales of property, veteran's pension, etc. 2). 2007 Income Tax Form (if filed). 3). If you received an application and have any questions, or need help filling out your application, our office can assist you at the Town hall (Room 101). For more information, call (203) 294-2001. People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them, make them. ~G.B. Shaw, Mrs. Warren's Profession, 1893

Argus continued from Page 9 There were times when I frightened myself, because I wasn't sure of what I was doing. I began to think that maybe the protein pills they told me to take twice daily were really something else. I thought that what I was experiencing was actually the result of what I was taking. For a while, I stopped my mental exercise to see if I could maintain focus on mundane thoughts. I actually started to miss meditating and completely lost interest in doing any physical exercise. Out of extreme boredom, and after assuring myself that I was still in control, I resumed meditating for the peaceful feeling it engendered. If I had to stay in that chamber longer, I think I would have tried peeking beyond that serene point to experience what lies beyond. After leaving service, I would occasionally repeat what I had learned to see if I could still get the same result. What I discovered amazed me. I found that it is possible to project one's emotional thoughts while in a meditative state. I know this is true. I also realized that the transcendent state achieved through focused prayer, which is a form of meditation, makes personal communion with God possible. Ed. Note: This story is an excerpt from Bob Biancur's recent book, "Finding God in a Godless World" Xulon press ISBN 978-1-60266-986-4 and depicts an actual experiment for which he volunteered at the beginning of his four-year enlistment at age 18. Later, he trained as a communications technician serving two years in Japan.

Mayor's Corner - Meriden Dear Friends, I hope you had an opportunity to visit Hubbard Park for the 30th Anniversary of the Meriden Daffodil Festival. The park looks terrific and the daffodils are in full bloom. A special thank you to the Meriden Daffodil Festival Committee and all the volunteers and sponsors who make this Meriden's signature event. Speaking of Hubbard Park, it is exciting to see the hard work of the Playground Committee and Chris and Sarah Bourdon coming together. The new playscape is a great asset to the park and a long overdue addition for our children. I wish my mom and all moms a very Happy Mother's Day. Our children, Bria and Blake would like to wish their mom, a Happy Mother's Day too. It is exciting to see some new art venues locating to downtown Meriden. Whether it is Sandman Gallery, recording space, or artist lofts, Meriden is seeing an increased interest for the arts in downtown Meriden. I also look forward to seeing the transformation of Fischers into a sit down restaurant on Colony Street. Work is proceeding at a steady pace on the Falcon Field project. This new sports complex will offer our athletes and citizens a fine facility that we all can be proud of. The nice weather has brought many residents to the Quinnipiac River Gorge Trail for a scenic walk along the beautiful river. I encourage all citizens to take the journey. In closing, thank you to all those who supported the Annual United Way drive. A special thank you to Cuno/3M and the Meriden Fire Department for their fine efforts. Thank you for all your support! Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni - Mayor

EGYPT AND JORDAN TRAVEL PROGRAM MAY 14 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Travel on an expedition to Egypt and Jordan with Peter Burch at the Meriden Public Library on Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 pm. During this PowerPoint presentation, prepare to have the mysteries of ancient Egypt and Jordan unfold before you on this 14-day journey of discovery to revered tombs, temples and monuments. Scenes include the enormous pyramids at Giza (built 1700 years before the rise of ancient Greece), the temples at Abu Simbel built by Pharaoh Ramesses II, the Valleys of the Kings and Queens (including King Tut's tomb), as well as biblical scenes in Jordan which include the Jordan River (where Jesus was baptized), the Dead Sea and Mount Nebo (where Moses looked over the Promised Land). Peter Burch, M.D. practiced ophthalmology in the greater Meriden area until his retirement in 2000. For the last eight years, Dr. Burch has done some local volunteer work, and especially enjoys performing as a member of the Humble Bees musical group. The program is free and all are invited. Since seating is limited, please call the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult Events" to reserve a seat. Please Keep June 14th open to attend Wallingford Garden Clubs Flower Show. This club is a member of the Federated Garden clubs of CT. & The National Garden Club Inc To be held from 1-5pm at the Wallingford Senior Center 238 Washington St in Wallingford. The show will exhibit flower design, horticulture all done by your local Garden club. This event is free & open to the public. What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

Page 11 May 2008

Mayor’s Corner - Wallingford

Happy Mothers Day

Dear Friends: It is a real joy to feel the warmer sun and watch leaves begin to form on the trees. A real beauty in Connecticut is the countryside so lush with various shades of yellow and green. Just wait until all the flowers begin to bloom then the gorgeous array of yellows, reds, blues, whites, pinks and purples will brighten the dreariest day. Have you every thought about how the flowers have gotten their names? One flower is called the Nose Twister. Its name comes from nasus (nose) and torquea (twist). That flower is commonly known as Nasturtium because those who smelled it felt like their nose was being twisted. French gardeners felt that the expanded blossom of a little flower resembled a tulipane (turban) hence, they named the flower Tulip. Years later a noted botanist by the name of Linnaeus noticed that the seed capsule of a familiar flower is shaped like a miniature water pitcher or cup. Using his knowledge of the Greek language, he combined hydor (water) and angos (vessel) to create the name Hydrangea. Regardless of what name the flowers carry, they are a delight to behold. Not only do they cheer us up but they are important for insects which play an important role in the environment. Be sure and plant some flowers this spring! Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor

Mom Happy Mother’s Day We LOVE you so much! Love, Emily and Katie Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother's Day, Nana! Hugs & Kisses, Vanessa Grace

Tribute and Thank You!

To the editor:

I come from a generation in which most of my colleagues and I had to face the draft and served a couple of years of active duty, reserve, or guard. It was Vietnam, and unless you were rich, connected or 4F, you went. Those who saw combat and their families often paid a big price; the rest of us and our families paid a much smaller but memorable one. Today, with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, we have an all volunteer army, and aside from the impressive young men and women of our service academies and ROTC programs, the majority of the fighting and dying is being done by the youth of the lower middle class of our citizenry. These young men and women, often minorities, may be enlisting for the opportunity to find some dignity and respect, to find a way out of failing neighborhoods and school systems, or even, in the case of some, to find a way to come out of the shadows and get citizenship. Their motives are mixed, but their courage is not. They are facing an experience as complicated and unappealing as that of the poor marines who faced the toughest fighting and dying in Vietnam. And their families are sometimes faced with their sons and daughters returning in shattered states, physically, psychologically or both. To the rest of us, sheltered from the horror by restrictions on the press, understand little and pay practically nothing, today at least, for the sacrifices of these young people and their families. The military has a term "Stop Loss.." It was unfamiliar to me, but I now know it refers to the policy, under extreme manpower needs, in which an honorably-serving soldier's contract may be voided, and instead of mustering out, as expected, after whatever combat tours he or she has served, that soldier is involuntarily sent back to the combat zone. For some troops, it is acceptable; for others, it is not. The other night my wife and I and another couple went to see a movie with the title "Stop Loss," which claimed to portray how the policy might affect several military families. It was not a heavy-handed attack on the military and its policy. Rather we thought it was a thought-provoking look at both the rigors of the combat situations and the difficulties of those who faced these difficult times and then the involuntary extension. While not a perfect film, this celluloid drama was certainly the choice we were later glad we had made over other offerings that night, such as Leatherheads, "21," and such lighter fare. The audience Saturday night for "Stop Loss" was relatively sparse. It will probably be sparse every night for the next few weeks until the film is pulled in favor of an offering more appealing to the younger set, the main purchasers of movie tickets. This is a shame, but it is the reality of the movie business and of life. I would just encourage you to pay a small price, in discomfort during the combat scenes, and perhaps in melancholy during these damp, unseasonably cool Spring days, to help with just a little more of your understanding of their sacrifice and future needs, these young combat veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. - Mike Gannon

The Wallingford Garden club Presents "Garden Melodies"

Save this very special date June 14th.The stage at the Wallingford Senior Center 238 Washington St. becomes the setting for a small standard Flower Show, brought to you by the club that tends the beautiful gardens around town. This show which has been in the preparation for many months, promises to delight everyone. Floral Design, table design and horticulture are only a part of what goes into the making of this presentation. The public is invited free of charge from 1-5 pm. Plan on spending the afternoon viewing this delightful show. The Wallingford Garden Club is a Member of The Federated Garden Clubs of CT, and The National Garden club INC. Carole Golitko Publicity chair Flower Show 265 5961

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Page 12 May 2008

MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER

Meriden Center and Skyview Center are sponsoring a "Senior Center Health Fair" at the Senior Center on Wednesday, May 14 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the lower level of the Senior Center. A free box lunch will be served to the first 300 attendees and the event will feature vendor tables, free samples, health screenings, and information about health and well being opportunities. The keynote speaker at 11:00 AM will be author Lynn McPhelimy on the topic of Life Choices. She has been featured on the TV show Oprah with her book "In the Checklist of Life". The "Senior Center Health Fair" also features displays from Meriden agencies serving the elderly and is an opportunity for seniors, caregivers and family members to learn about the many fine services offered for senior citizens in our community. Participating agencies at the Health Fair include Anthem, MidState Medical Center, LaPlanche Clinic, Aetna, Health Net, Miller Memorial Community, Agency on Aging of South Central CT, Social Security Administration, Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council, Senior Whole Health, Companions and Homemakers, the Bradley Home, Water's Edge Center for Health Rehabilitation, MidState VNA, BCI Financial Mortgage Corporation, Meriden Center, the Eye Center, RSVP of Central CT, Rushford Center, the Scooter Store, Elder Law Attorney Dan Tully, the Meriden Health Department, the Village at Kensington Place, Silver Springs Care Center, Assisted Living Services, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care and more. Join us on May 14 for the "Senior Center Health Fair" at the Max E Muravnick Senior Center. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend! Starting Thursday, May 15 Senior Center staff will begin taking applications for the Rent Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2007 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. To be eligible, applicants must have been 65 or over as of December 31, 2007 or be enrolled in Social Security Disability. Proof of 2007 income must be presented, including a copy of your 2007 income tax return, if filed, Social Security 1099, and all other income. Income limits are $29,800 for a single person and $36,500 for a married couple. Proof of 2007rent and utilities must also be presented. For further information contact the Senior Center at 237-0066. The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program will be held at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 23 and Friday, July 25 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Five good reasons to take the class are: 1. Learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8hour course. 2. Find out how to adjust to age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time. 3. Get an insurance discount. 4. You don't have to take a test. 5. Millions of people have taken advantage of this valuable course. The course fee is $10 and people can sign-up by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. The program will be limited to the first 30 people who register so sign-up today! Free hearing aid assistance will be offered on Tuesday, May 13 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 noon. Hearing Aid Specialist Nick Wills from Miracle Ear at the Meriden Square will provide free hearing tests, ear examinations, hearing aid cleaning and checks, general assistance and answer any questions you may have about your hearing aid. This service will be offered on a first come, first served basis in an office on the

first floor of the Senior Center. Our Older Americans' Month Dinner Dance will be held on Thursday, May 22 from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. Entertainment will be provided by the Stan Scott and His Band. The dinner menu, served from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, will be a fresh fruit cup, chicken marsala, baked potato with sour cream and chives, petite peas and mushrooms, dinner roll and strawberry layer cake. Tickets are available now at the Senior Center for $6 per person for Meriden residents. Get your ticket today and join us for our Older Americans' Month Dinner Dance! 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 - Director - Meriden Senior Citizens' Center

The Stroke Center at MidState Medical Center Earns State Recognition

MidState Medical Center proudly announces that its stroke program has earned designation as a Primary Stroke Center from the Connecticut Department of Public Health. By achieving this certification MidState's Stroke Center has met the rigorous standards put in place by the American Stroke Association.The designation was based on the existence and evaluation of 10 key components that included, creation of the acute stroke team, thorough written care protocols, strong organizational commitment and support, widespread community education, and excellent neurosurgical, neuroimaging and laboratory services. "We are extremely proud of this accomplishment. Our certification by the state of Connecticut means that we have a high quality stroke program that is patient-focused, with clear cut guidelines for evaluation and treatment," said Lori Nohilly, RN, Director of Inpatient Medicine. "This is a special recognition, as MidState is one of the first hospitals in the state to receive such designation. This distinction speaks to our dedication to progressive quality care for our community," said Cindy Russo, Vice President of Patient Care. Every effort to save time is critical when dealing with a stroke patient. The faster a patient is evaluated and treated, the greater the chance for a more favorable outcome. Pat Giannelli, APRN, Stroke Coordinator, agrees: "There is a window of time from the onset of symptoms in which the appropriate therapy can be initiated. Our recent certification is an indicator that our institution has the ability to deliver quick and comprehensive care." In fact, three MidState Stroke Team members, Michele Colby, RN, Manager of Pavilion D (The Stroke Unit), Giannelli and Nohilly, recently became certified in conducting the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale. This tool serves as a predictor of patient outcomes. It is used to evaluate presenting neurological symptoms and assist with determining the most appropriate treatment regimen to employ. Our multidisciplinary team of neurologists, physicians, nurses, phlebotomists, dieticians, social workers, resource managers, pharmacists and nursing assistants work collaboratively to quickly stabilize the patient's condition and determine the appropriate plan of care. In addition, input is given by our physical and occupational therapists along with the speech pathologists to help the patients achieve their highest level of recovery. In honor of American Stroke Month in May and the American Stroke Association's "Call to Action" week, MidState Medical Center will be sponsoring several stroke risk assessments: May 14th, 10-12 p.m., the LaPlanche Clinic at the Meriden Senior Center; May 16th, 10-2 p.m., MidState Medical Center conference room VI, and May 21st, 10-2 p.m., MidState Medical Center boardroom. For more information on these screenings, please contact us at (203) 694- 8509.

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Page 13 Mayl 2008

Amazing Coffee Beans Grinding to the Music in Meriden - AN UPDATE

By Jeff Caillouette It is time for an update on my progress with the coffee trees growing in JC Music on West Main Street in Meriden. The People's Press had a front-page article in August 2007 related to the trees. First of all, let me summarize that story for you. Sixteen years ago, I planted several coffee beans (obtained from an Arabica tree in Hawaii) and after several months of watering the dirt (which contained traces of lava), the trees germinated. The trees were kept as very small desk plants at JC Music for many years. I eventually started to repot them into larger and larger pots. They now stand about 15 feet tall. The reason the last story came about was because coffee trees generally only grow and produce beans between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Along with needing to be close to the equator, they also need to be at an elevation of 1800 to 6300 feet. Meriden sits about 140 feet above sea level. In February 2007, I hooked up a new blowing gas heater in JC Music. On the very first night, the heater turned on and blew hot air at the trees all night long. I thought the trees might die as the soil became as dry as dust. Then, after a thorough watering, the trees produced white flowers and it actually appeared as though I would be producing real coffee in MERIDEN! Shortly after my story in August, the flowers died off and green cherries appeared on the trees. The cherries then turned a deep red color and I have been picking these ripe cherries ever since. Each cherry contains two coffee beans. I had hoped to collect enough beans to brew my first pot of homegrown coffee, and was then planning to roast them in a home type roaster. What ended up happening prevented that from taking place. After the August article was printed, people from all over central Connecticut came to JC Music to see the trees and I ended up with a waiting list of customers who wanted a bean from them when they were ready. I have not heard of anyone else having success yet, but there are plenty of people trying to germinate coffee trees in the area! I still have some beans saved in a jar on my desk and have many more growing on my trees. I am no longer giving them away so that I can hopefully brew a pot of homegrown Meriden coffee in the near future. I am offering a promotion this month for JC Music's 20th Anniversary. Anyone who spends over $200 can pick their own coffee cherry and try to grow their own coffee trees at home. (See front-page coupon). Even if you are unable to get the trees to flower and produce beans, they still have beautiful dark shiny green leaves, which will make them very decorative house plants. If you are as lucky as I was and they produce flowers and cherries, you will certainly gain an appreciation for the work involved in producing coffee. You will also find them to be a great conversation piece all year, especially during the flowering and cherry development stages! Sooner or later I will have saved enough mature cherries to harvest, pulp, ferment, dry, roast, grind, brew, and drink a real cup of Meriden grown coffee. I will make sure Andy is there for a taste and I am sure he will take pictures for my final follow up story. For all those people trying to grow coffee trees in this area, here is some helpful advice from the experience and knowledge I have gained over the years! " The trees cannot be expected to produce flowers and beans for at least four years. My trees took 15 years with tremendous care and then a freak problem with a gas heater to get them to produce!! " The low altitude we are at may not make our coffee taste the same as the worlds' finest! (Just need to be realistic here). Maybe I will get lucky and find it is even better! " Coffee trees will thrive under artificial indoor plant lights.

" They cannot be left outside as they will turn black and die if the temperature reaches freezing. " The trees will require rich soil, plenty of water, and humid conditions. I run humidifiers at JC Music for the guitars and this must have helped the trees in producing the beans! " Water the trees less in December, January and early February and then shock them with lots of water in late February. You may then convince the trees that they are in the tropics and spring is coming. If you get lucky, the trees will begin to flower! I know Andy was hoping to be sitting with me at JC Music enjoying a cup of Meriden grown Java by now, but I promise that will be happening in the near future! After I have collected enough beans, I am sure my final article will include the process of how I roasted them. At the same time, several of my friends, including Andy, will likely let you know what coffee grown 41.53 degrees North of the equator tastes like! 35 Ways to know if you drink too much coffee... 1. You answer the door before people knock. 2. The only kitchen appliances you own are made by Mr. Coffee. 3. You ski uphill. 4. You get a tax cut for all the coffee you bought. 5. You get a speeding ticket even when you're parked. 6. You speed walk in your sleep. 7. You haven't blinked since the last lunar eclipse. 8. You grind your coffee beans in your mouth. 9. The nurse needs a scientific calculator to take your pulse. 10. You sleep with your eyes open. 11. When you open your dish cabinet, and you only find mugs. 12. You can take a picture of yourself from ten feet away without using the timer. 13. You spend every vacation visiting "Maxwell House." 14. You're the employee of the month at Dunkin' Donuts and you don't even work there. 15. Your eyes stay open when you sneeze. 16. You chew on other people's fingernails. 17. You're so jittery that people use your hands to blend their margaritas. 18. All your kids are named "Joe". 19. You don't sweat, you percolate. 20. You go to AA meetings just for the free coffee. 21. Charles Manson thinks you need to calm down. 22. Every shirt or blouse you own has a coffee stain on it. 23. The Taster's Choice couple wants to adopt you. 24. Starbucks owns the mortgage on your house. 25. Instant coffee takes too long. 26. When someone says, "How are you?", you say, "Good to the last drop." 27. You want to be cremated just so you can spend the rest of eternity in a coffee can. 28. Your hand is permanently shaped to hold your mug. 29. You go to sleep just so you can wake up and smell the coffee. 30. Your lips are permanently stuck in the sipping position. 31. You have a picture of your coffee mug on your coffee mug. 32. You don't even wait for the water to boil anymore. 33. You think being called a "drip" is a compliment. 34. You introduce your spouse as your coffeemate. 35. Your first-aid kit contains two pints of coffee with an I.V. hookup.

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Page 14 May 2008

Big shots are only little shots who keep shooting. ~Christopher Morley

QRWA News and Events

Paul Roy,Mary Mushinsky, Debra Mason, Ginny Chirsky, Marty Mador,and Brenia Schain hope to see sign changed to read Quinnipiac Environmental Education Center! If you have been by our future headquarters in South Meriden recently, you may have noticed we are awaiting the arrival of a new roof. On the right wing of the building, we have installed a new door that opens into a spacious assembly area. We will apply a baking soda treatment to the bricks to give the building a fresh, new look and are exploring green design to make our renovations as protective of the environment as possible. The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is seeking to convert the historic Dossin Beach Bathhouse on Hanover Pond and the Quinnipiac River in Meriden to a regional Quinnipiac Environmental Education Center. QRWA acquired the building in a long-term lease arrangement with the City of Meriden, owner of the park surrounding the site. In our 29 year history, we have long sought a permanent home with waterfront access to realize our dream of linking every citizen in the watershed, especially children and youth, to the River and the natural world. This bond is crucial to the recovery of the pollution-impaired Quinnipiac, for people will protect what have grown to love. The Quinnipiac Environmental Education Center will increase awareness and understanding of our environment by providing a hands-on-learning experience for grades pre-K through 12 that will help youth and families understand and appreciate the natural world. The center will create programs that will engage teachers and students alike while addressing the Connecticut Department of Education standards for interdisciplinary, openended investigations that promote inquiry processes describe in the 2004 Core Science Curriculum Framework. With a large classroom/assembly area for formal learning, a natural history library, displays, and convenient access to Hanover Pond, the Quinnipiac River, and Quinnipiac Gorge, plus other natural areas reachable by a short bus ride, including forested Hubbard park, Giufridda Park, Black Pond and a floodplain forest and salt marsh 20 minutes away, the center is well suited to deliver programs on Pond and Stream, Quinnipiac Habitats, Life of the Alquonquians. Watersheds, Renewable Energy, Plant and Animal Life and Conservation. The center can help boy and girl scouts develop an active appreciation for nature through our tailored programs and service projects. From badge programs to service days, QRWA offers many options to help scouts achieve their goals.

Fostering Susan Herget When you open your home to a child in need you receive so much more than you give. This is just one of the things I and my family have learned since deciding to become a licensed foster home in 2005. Over the past 3 years there have been 10 children who have stayed in our home, either as a placement or for respite care and each of them have brought with them their own lessons for us to learn. Yes, these children were all in need of a safe, stable, patient, and loving place to stay while their biological families worked out their issues and we as a family were happy to give them such a place. However, we never expected that we would receive so much in return. I was a stay at home parent who really missed working and "contributing to society", well I have learned that being at home and caring for children who are displaced is the greatest contribution to society that I can make, I could never put into words the sense of worth I have gained from fostering . For my husband this experience has proven to be an opportunity to help those less fortunate (both the children and their parents). Our children have learned lessons that we would never have been able to teach them on our own. For example, one of our placements was an infant whose parents were young teenagers who really needed guidance and time to grow-up themselves, our children learned about teenage pregnancy from this situation. We had a brother and sister in our home, about the same age as our children. For the first 2 weeks that they were in our home they slept huddled together on the floor, even though they each had their own bed to sleep in. These children had been living in a homeless shelter and had only known how to sleep this way. From them our children learned what it means to be homeless. Another child, a 4 year old boy, was born to a mother who had a drug addiction. He was drug affected and challenging (to say the least). This was a difficult placement. From him the children learned about drug abuse, and how to tolerate someone - even if you don't like them, an important life lesson for all of us. Some placements are short and some are long. Some are challenging and some are less challenging. Some children we are happy to see reunited with their families, others are harder to let go of. We are very fortunate to have a supportive, compassionate, and giving extended family and from them the children placed in our home have learned what family is - you know grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and good friends that are family too. These "foster" children have experienced little things like backyard picnics, holidays, birthdays, and vacations, things that so many of us take for granted that are huge and wondrous to them. We have friends who are also foster parents and they are a great support. Even though we were already parents, fostering is a special type of parenting and it's good to have people who can relate to the issues that we and the children placed in our homes are facing. We like to say that being a foster home is contagious, we "caught" the "fostering bug" from one set of friends, and unknowingly passed it on to another set of friends and hopefully they will pass it on too. There is such a need for homes in Connecticut, yes even here in our nice towns of Wallingford and Meriden. At any given time there are as many as 6,000 children in our state in care. May is National Foster Parent Appreciation Month and it is our greatest hope that while reading this letter you will consider opening your heart and home to a child in need, for you will truly be changing a life, yours and the child(ren) you'd be helping. If you are interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent please call (203) 583-9312, we did. In closing we would like to say, that we feel honored to have been selected as "Foster Parents of the Year" and would like to add that we are not the foster parents of the year but rather the "Foster Family of the Year" because without our son, Samuel, and daughter, Gillian, our parents, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, and friends we would not be the foster family that we are. - Jeffrey and Susan Herget , Meriden DCF Foster Family

Continued on Page 15

Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet Some gardeners at the Wallingford Community Garden have begun working on their plots, getting them ready for planting. Compost was delivered several weeks ago, and I managed to shovel compost into a wheelbarrow, three times, and dump it in my garden. The poor wheelbarrows are in kind of rough shape. The first one I tried had a wheel that kept falling off. The second one, when I went to pour out the contents, fell apart. The part of the wheelbarrow that you load up is not attached to the frame. It just kind of sits there. Needless to say, we could sure use a donation of a wheelbarrow. My garlic and one lonely jonquil popped up a couple of weeks ago, and my lily and catnip are showing signs of returning to life. It is really too early to plant anything except lettuce, peas, spinach or radishes, and since my garden is not fenced in, I have no luck with lettuce because it gets eaten up by some critter. It's funny, but because Easter was so early this year, people are thinking it's time to plant tomatoes, and a lot of customers at Cheshire Nursery, where I am a cashier, are asking for tomato plants already (April 21st). A week ago I did buy a sixpack of tomatoes at another nursery, which never has tomatoes this early, and I transplanted them into two pots, but I have them inside in my "sun room" for now. The soil is still too cold outside for their roots. But I am as anxious as anyone for the growing season to begin. I did such a good job of haying last fall, that very few weeds are appearing, knock on wood. I have three bird feeders in CJ's garden, and have been feeding the birds for over eight years now. However, the price of bird seed has sky-rocketed, and I'm not sure that I'll be able to continue supplying the birds with this special treat. By the end of May, I definitely will be starting to plant. I tend to wait until Memorial Day until all chance of frost has passed. I will continue to make weekly trips to the garden, though, to ensure the weeds are under control (and they can get out of control in a heartbeat) and to move some more compost into my plot. All of the perennials throughout the Community Garden and at the entrance are starting to come back, and we do have some tulips in bloom as well. The weather is starting to warm up, finally, and it's truly beginning to feel like spring. Hooray! I'll see you all next month. Happy May to you! Barbara Sherburne barndt49@yahoo.com

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F R E E E S T I M AT E S Tribute and Thank You!

Page 15 May 2008

Fostering continued from Page 14 The best thing about being a foster family is, "that you get to help other kids". The worst thing about being a foster family is that "sometimes you don't like the kid but you still have to be nice". - Samuel Herget, age 7 - Meriden DCF Foster Family The best thing about being a foster family is, "having kids to play with". The worst thing about being a foster family is, "when the kids leave". - Gillian Herget, age 4 Meriden DCF Foster Family Fostering children is one of the most difficult and rewarding experiences my husband and I have ever taken on. We began this journey as a couple with no children of our own. In the past four years we have opened our home to nine children ranging in age from three days to fifteen years. We now have a biological child as well as an adopted child. As a foster family we are able to provide hurt children with a safe haven where there is always a warm bed and someone to tuck you in at night. We are able to redefine family for these children. In our family, there is a mom and a dad who love you and care about you. Somebody is always there to check your homework and scare away the monsters at night. Our foster children are provided with a true sense of family. There are grandparents to spoil you and uncles to chase you around in the yard. These children have given my family, both immediate and extended, so much more than we have given them. They have taught my family tolerance, acceptance, and compassion. For my husband and I fostering is our way of giving of ourselves. People often ask us how and why we are able to do what we do. For us, knowing that there are kids out there in need of a safe, loving home is reason enough. Our question is not why foster, but why not? Amy and Scott Aresco Meriden DCF Foster & Adoptive Family since 2004 Susan Herget program coordinator P.O. Box 2303 Meriden, CT 06450 (203) 583-9312 www.mandmfaces.org Meriden & Middletown's Foster care Adoption and CommunityEducation Services "keeping the faces of children in foster care in the forefront of our community"

Annual May Ball

Hungarian Community Club will hold its Annual May Ball May 17 2008 7:00 PM at 147 Ward St. Wallingford, CT Chicken Paprikas/Csirke paprikas coffee and dessert. Music by Laszlo Donation $ 55.00 Reservation is a must. Please call Linda 203 634-0602 Kathy 203 213-3775 It kills you to see them grow up. But I guess it would kill you quicker if they didn't. ~Barbara Kingsolver, Animal Dreams

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Page 16 Mayl 2008

To Peoples Press: You have given the opportunity for stories that honor those who fought to preserve our freedom. The stories that my husband, Walt, chose to tell us of service in World War II, were not of battle engagements but of times that he preferred to remember and talk about. Several years ago he wrote the following story for his grandchildren. A story that we treasure. - Dorothy Gonick Leaving out details, here is the story: drafted into the Army, I was assigned to basic training in Chemical Warfare in Gatston, Alabama. After basic training, I was assigned to Dugway Chemical Warfare Proving grounds in Utah. There in the desert was the Proving Ground. I was assigned to laboratory work. Goats in the field were subjected to a phosgene gas attack and then brought into the lab. When the goats died I cut them open, removed the lungs and refrigerated them for the Veterinarians to examine. Phosgene liquefied their lung tissue so that they drowned in their own fluid. I was told that one man picking up the goats was affected by the gas, even though he wore a gas mask, and died. I was assigned here for the duration of the war. However, the Army being in so many countries, required interpreters. After reading the notice on the board I volunteered and was assigned to the University of Iowa to study German. This is where I met Dot at a dance held in the Memorial Union Hall, and we've been dancing together ever since. Before the course in German was completed, the Army was short on manpower and closed the school. I was sent to Texas, near Mexico, to Field Artillery and the biggest guns the Army used in the field - "Long Thoms." I was attached to the Observation Unit. In combat we were near the front lines observing the enemy and communicating to our guns, more than a mile behind us, where to fire. This went on through West Germany. We stopped near Berlin, which was taken by the Russians. The War ended. Men with long service in Europe were sent home first. I was assigned to Military Government in the town of Kulmbach and could use my German Language training. There were more men here than they could use, so the extra men took trips. I went to Paris and South Germany and vicinity. Then I took a course at Bavarian State Brewery. Upon my return to Kulmbach I was put in charge of several Breweries in town to see that they did not make extra brews because of ingredient shortage. The 3.2% alcohol content beer was used by the Army. In time I was informed to pack up as I was going home. I reached New Jersey and was discharged.

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The St. Stan's Parish Festival will be held on Friday, May 30th (6-10PM) and Saturday, May 31st (Noon - 10PM) on the parish grounds at 82 Akron Street. This year's event will feature traditional Polish food: homemade pierogi, golabki & kielbasa sandwiches, as well as American favorites fried dough, hot dogs, steamed cheeseburgers and clam chowder. There will be inflatable rides and games for the kids. Our Parish Sunshine Club will be sponsoring a craft sale as well as selling baked goods. This year we will be bringing back our tag sale. On Friday, May 30th, you will be entertained by the Stan Scott Orchestra and on Saturday evening our feature band will be Patti & the Guys. As always our festival will culminate with our annual raffle with this year's grand prize being a 2008 Hyundai Elantra.

Gardeners can Help to Protect the Environment "Gardening with nature" can help protect the environment, Dr. Deborah Lee told Wallingford Garden Club members at their April meeting, and she gave them some hints on how to do this. First, avoid toxic sprays for killing insects. They don't go away. "There's no such place as away," said Lee, who teaches ecology and genetics at Eastern Connecticut State University. What gets thrown away or sprayed gets into the air or the ground or the landfill, and can eventually seep into the ground water, she explained. "We have to change our habits." Organic insecticides are better, but even these can kill or damage a lot of predators that are useful because they eat insects. Frogs, for instance are being affected, apparently by hormones and toxins that have gotten into groundwater. Some frogs are dying, and male frogs are becoming feminized and are producing eggs in their testes. Gardeners can use smaller amounts of organic insecticides, but she recommends the "squish" method for getting rid of insects. "Squish" aphids and caterpillar larva, flick off beetles into a container with soapy water. Avoid bag-a-bug devices because they draw beetles from all over the neighborhood. Don't grow plants that attract a lot of bugs. A compost pile is a good way to recycle and to fertilize a garden, says Lee. Start a compost pile in your backyard. Instead of throwing away refuse like leaves, grass clippings, coffee grounds, onion skins, pile them up, and let nature decompose them into compost. This is better than chemical fertilizers for gardens and for the environment. Many garden plants are clones and have no genetic diversity, so a disease can wipe all of them out. She recommends getting plants that have been grown from seed. Avoid planting invasive plants that can take over your gardens. These are plants that reproduce too much, such as those with a lot of seeds. Lee has a doctorate in ecology from the University of Connecticut. She and her partner run Woodland Trails Wildflower Nursery in Eastford, which specializes in native plants. You can't go through life quitting everything. If you're going to achieve anything, you've got to stick with something. ~From the television show Family Matters

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Helping Hands Opens Doors for Benefit of Abused Women and their Children Walking into Helping Hands, Inc., a renovated garage that the community remembers bringing their cars to over many years on North Turnpike Road in Wallingford, you wouldn't recognize it. There are no smells of oil, no stacks of tires and no shelves of car parts. What you would notice is a quaint shop, reminiscent of a homemade craft shop. You can't travel beyond the entry way before learning the goal of Helping Hands, a thrift store dedicated to the benefit of the local community. On a bookshelf you pass on the way to racks of clothes and shelves of housewares and small appliances are print-outs describing their commitment to Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis, the local domestic violence service provider. Linda Nordgren, founder of Helping Hands, and lifetime Wallingford resident, approached Chrysalis before even opening their doors. "We want to help the community." Laura then made bold commitments to Chrysalis, commitments that are already benefitting victims and survivors of domestic violence throughout Meriden and Wallingford. Helping Hands is allowing Chrysalis residents and clients to shop for much needed clothing, a basic need that is often unmet when women are forced to flee abusive situations with little or no time to pack. "We'll also let women shop in our store when they are moving out, and into their own apartments or homes." Women offer a simple voucher, verifying their relationship with Chrysalis, and walk out with a bag or two of items at no charge. "We won't turn anyone away who needs us," Linda said. To further their commitment, Helping Hands also collects donations at their check-out counter, and once expenses are met, offers sale proceeds back to Chrysalis. Other Helping Hands staff include Kelley Avenoso, John Paluck, Sara Booker and Oslando Madero; aided by volunteer Eileen Amico. "We worked together in the past, we're family coming together for an awesome cause," stated Kelley. Chrysalis admits being awed and humbled by the generous commitment of Helping Hands. "We're so grateful to our community partners. The journey of women and children who've experienced domestic violence is being made a touch easier by their 'Helping Hands'," said agency Director Sharlene Kerelejza. "We look forward to our continued relationship, and hope to find ways to benefit them, as they work so selflessly to benefit us."

HANKY PANKS - 10 Servings ½ lb ground Beef Top Round ½ lb Italian sausage, hot 32 oz Velveeta cheese 1 t Worcestershire sauce 1 t oregano

1 t garlic powder 1 package party rye

Page 17 May 2008

Mix all ingredients, spread on party rye, and bake at 325 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes. Can be frozen before baking and baked when needed. Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day! You are the best Mommy in the whole world! Love, Taylor

Celebrations of Life and Home

THINK YOU CAN'T MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Think Again.

Have you ever thought about volunteering somewhere in town, but maybe you could not make up your mind where to go that fits your schedule? Or perhaps you may have pondered the idea of service to your community, but you did not know how or where to start your search for a local non-profit organization. The Volunteer Center of the United Way of Meriden and Wallingford exists to help people just like you who are interested in making a difference in our community. The Volunteer Center is the "hub" for anything and everything volunteer-related in Meriden and Wallingford, and works as a facilitator between prospective volunteers and the many local agencies who need their help. Do you have a particular skill that you would like to use to help out a local non-profit agency? Do you like painting, art, music, sports, photography, reading, working with children, or gardening? Many of the agencies right here in our town are in dire need of specialty skills (plumbers, carpenters, accountants, attorneys, painters, etc.) and could greatly benefit from any time you could offer. Think outside of job titles: Are you really good at organizing? Do you have exceptional computer skills? Our 26th President Teddy Roosevelt once said simply yet eloquently, "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." Start today by calling The Volunteer Center at (203) 235-4403, or send me an email: sarah@unitedwaymw.org. All we need is a little basic information: Do you want to volunteer on a particular day, for one day only? Would you like to become involved in coordinating an event for an agency, or participate as a Board Member? Are you looking to find a somewhat steady volunteer opportunity, perhaps one hour a week, or one afternoon a month? Contact us and we would be delighted to help you find the opportunity you are looking for! As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love." ATTENTION: The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) Annual Food Drive will be Saturday, May 10. The United Way of Meriden and Wallingford proudly supports the annual NALC food drive sponsored by the U.S. Postal Service. Postal workers will be collecting non-perishable food items left at mailboxes, and volunteers are desperately needed on that day to help bring the donations to local food pantries in both Meriden and Wallingford. Please contact The Volunteer Center (203) 235-4403 and let us know ASAP if you are interested in helping out on the day of the NALC Food Drive.

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Olivia Hand, from troop 66070, holding her 1st place trophy and winning car from Meriden's first girlscout derby. Also from troop 66070 is Lily Dolce, holding her 3rd place trophy and showing her winning car. We can't forget Sydney Bednarz, placing 11th and Sara Candelaria, placing 17th. Good job girls your leaders, Maryann Santos and Toni Carusone are very proud of you!!!!!

Experience the Wonders of India Fly into Delhi, from there to Agra and the Taj Mahal, to see this palace of beauty at sunrise, and in moonlight. (the colors change at different hours of the day and different seasons). Travel by train to Ranthambore National Park, a wildlife sanctuary where tigers are the park’s pride. NOVEMBER 6–19, 2008 105 Hanover Street in Meriden 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516 Email: ktwinc@aol.com www.kingtravelways.com

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Page 18 April 2008

The Kilroy Legend

Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties By Bobbie Vosgien I know spring has officially arrived. My next door neighbor Pam, as she has done for quite a few years now, planted her garden bed of pansies. Such beautiful little faces. This is one annual that can survive cooler weather. Having almost two weeks of a glimpse of summer the temps have cooled down somewhat. Wait until the middle of May or maybe even longer until planting your annuals. If we should get a cold spell, and I hope we don't, it could cause damage to these plants. Most of the trees and shrubs are in flowering splendor now. Prune them only when the blossoms are spent and no more than a cutting of 25%. My butterfly bushes have been trimmed and my two largest ones have some nice new green growth popping out. Outside of transplanting a couple perennials I decided to wail and do more after the much needed rain. This will help them to grow bigger and easier to work with. I think our lilac bushes are exceptionally beautiful this year. So full of white and purple flowers. Over the past few years they didn't bloom until May either just before or after Mother's Day. Every now and then LitlBit and I take a walk across the street to visit Danny's two golden retriever pups Blondie and Boone, his friends. At times LitlBit does become overwhelmed by their playfulness. They are twice as big as he is now. At the rate they are growing they'll be pony size soon. Such beautiful and loveable pups. Maybe by the next issue I'll have made my first trek of many to the nurseries. Can't wait!! Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien P.S.'s April 30 - hubby's sister Kathy's birthday May 5 - our 52nd wedding anniversary May 8 - our youngest daughter Jodie's birthday May 11 - our oldest daughter Jaime - mother to our only grandson Kevin, Jr. and Jodie who was born on Mother's Day - mother to our three granddaughters, Emmy "MeO", Abby and Izzy-Bella Love and best wishes And two very special congratulations. The first to our middle granddaughter Abby, a sixth grade student who won the city 5th - 6th grade spelling bee. The second to our oldest granddaughter Emmy "MeO" for being selected as the eighth grade female student scholar at her school. Both girls attend Lincoln Junior High School. Love always, Grammie Bobbie and Gump Jimmy

By Ken Cowing, 31280780 Yes, there was a Kilroy. He worked in a Massachusetts shipyard counting the number of rivets on the ships as they were being constructed during World War II. He signed his name on each ship that he inspected to avoid duplication of the inspection by others. The result was that his name was seen on ships throughout the world. The universal question became, "Who the h-was this guy? He seems to be everywhere!" This resulted in Americans signing the name "Kilroy was here" to indicate Americans were present nearly everywhere. It became a worldwide joke. Kilroy became a legend and a prime example of the American service personnel's secret weapon - their sense of humor. The enemy didn't know or understand it. American allies certainly didn't appreciate it and laughed it off with the usual comment, "Crazy Yanks!" In Europe, the South Pacific, and nearly everywhere, cartoons appeared. They showed a young lady wearing a maternity dress that had the well-known comment, "Kilroy was here." When a G.I. was once asked, "Who was Kilroy?" the reply was, "He is us." Perhaps more can be written about Kilroy? The stories are many and they would fill a book. Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother's Day, Mommy! Love, Vanessa Grace xoxoxo

Happy Mothers Day

ENCHILADA CASSEROLE Though I'm a vegetarian, I used to eat beef, and I'd do like an enchilada skillet casserole or even a simple regular enchilada casserole would be good. You can add cumin and red pepper flakes to whatever to make it as spicy as you want. You can experiment with it. I generally use(d) the beef, a can of spicy Ro-Tel or the new fire-roasted diced tomatoes, a can of red or green enchilada sauce, Mexican cheese, spices, and maybe some beans. Mix all that up and serve it over chips or rice or make it into enchiladas by rolling up in tortillas, covering with enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake at 375 for about 20-30 minutes. Keep on going, and the chances are that you will stumble on something, perhaps when you are least expecting it. I never heard of anyone ever stumbling on something sitting down. ~Charles F. Kettering

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Page 19 May 2008

Memorial Day Tribute to my brother

By Jane Petitpas My brother, Leo (Buster as we called him), joined the Army Paratroopers while still in High School in 1943. When home on leave before going to the European Theatre, he gave a talk to the High School students. In response to one question, he said "If anyone says he is not afraid at the first jump, they would not be telling the truth." Buster was a football star and not afraid of anything, so for him to say that, it had to be frightening. Before departing for the ETO he made two records (they didn't have tape recorders back then, so they are actual vinyl records). At the end he said "Ma & Pa, don't worry, I'll be back to take care of you." As it turned out, the government paid both parents a compensation for the rest of their lives on his death. On December 16, 1944, Hitler made one last desperate attempt to alter the course of World War II when he attacked the weakest part of the American front lines in Belgium. The Americans spent a solemn Christmas fighting strong German Panzer forces in the Ardennes Forest - the infamous "Battle of the Bulge." On January 8, 1945, during this famous battle, Buster charged German tanks with a bazooka and was killed. He had just turned 20 on November 24, 1944. During the war, my parents had four sons in the service. One was in the National Guard at the beginning of the war and wounded in the Pacific in November 1943, one in the Marines, one in the Navy and of course Buster in the Army. Buster was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his heroics. It has been a very long time, but my memory is still vivid of the day I had to read the telegram to my mother (she could read only French.) All she said was "Which one?" and all I said was "Buster killed" - I was 13. He is buried in Luxemburg in the same National Cemetery as General Patton. We decided to let him be buried with his buddies that he died with.

ATTENTION LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS!

In order to help you during these times, we have lowered our rates by 68% and switched delivery methods to business delivery and full online delivery. Now is the time to promote your business and with our new rates and the fact that the community loves the paper - we can help. Call 203.235.9333 Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day! You are the best Mommy in the whole world! I Love You, Jake Happy Mothers Day Grandma, Oma and Grandma W. Happy Mother’s Day We LOVE you! Love, Emily and Katie

In Loving Memory of...My Uncles and my Father.

Richard A. Stanley - served in the US Army - was stationed in Alaska during WWII Harry M. Stanley - served in the US Army - was stationed in Panama during WWII My Dad, Ralph W. Wolf - served in the US Army Air Corps during WWII. He was stationed in the states, and then was sent to Germany, France, England and Scotland. He photographed many of war's casualties (e.g. mass destruction in Germany, some of the leaders Eisenhower and Patton - and some of the entertainment, like Bob Hope's USO show.) I heard many fascinating war stories, too, which included a roll call incident - one in which my dad and his buddy Harry Fox responded in order. After hearing "Wolf" and "Fox," the officer taking roll stopped "dead I his tracks" with a very odd look on his face, which was fixated on the "dynamic duo." My dad told us, "Thank God the next guy's last name wasn't 'Bear,' or we all would have been thrown out on our ears!" All kidding aside, I would like to say "thank you" to my family members and all of the men and women who have served and are currently serving in the armed forces for your patriotic Dedication & Devotion to the good old USA - the best country on Earth. - Shari R. Wolf-Dziekan

In Memory of My Father, Henry Kuhn

By Chuck Kuhn, Middletown My father, Henry Kuhn, was a WWII vet who served in the air force and flew B-24s in the Pacific Theatre against the Japanese, when they were our enemies of course! He flew a total of 30 missions, an unheard of number for the time. Unfortunately he passed away last Tuesday evening, May 10 in a hospice in Washington DC at the age of 81 and obviously can't speak about his war stories himself, so I'll give a brief summary here. My last 3 or 4 weekends were spent traveling down to visit him in Annapolis, MD, and those trips were the most rewarding experiences of my 47 years I've spent here on Earth. We got to spend some very important "bonding" time, but the aspect of his life which he talked about the most was his service to his country - the many successful missions against the enemy as well as the many which almost ended in tragedy for him due to different reasons (i.e. engines being shot out and failing while on 16-hour missions all over water, fellow crew members being killed in front of him, some serious stuff to be sure!). As I left him last Monday morning to return to Connecticut, the very same day he went into the hospice and the day before he passed away, I said to him how proud I was that he was my father and especially of his WWII service to our great country. As a man of little energy and in a great deal of pain, he somehow summoned up the strength to give me a salute, and memory, that will forever be etched in my mind. I wish all other vets and family members of vets here in Connecticut and across the country the very best, and I am proud to share my story in the Tribute edition of the People's Press. Godspeed.

Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day to the best Mom and the one who cares and has taken care of me! Love, Your favortie Woof, Woof Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day! You are the best Mommy in the whole world! Love, Delaney

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Page 20 May 2008

Editorâ€™s Note:

We have taken the advice of so many who have contacted us and increased the type size to make the paper an easier read. As we are changing and growing, this is your opportunity to give us your input. What would you like to see in the paper or added to our website. What would make your life easier. Call 203.235.9333 or email dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Cheesy Bacon Bits

1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup Real Bacon Pieces* 2 tablespoons chopped onion 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine cream cheese, bacon, onion, and pepper in a batter bowl. Separate crescent rolls into two rectangles; place on cutting board. Pinch seams together. Spread cheese mixture on each rectangle. Roll up, starting at longest side, and seal. Cut each roll into 16 slices. Place slices cut side down on flat baking stone. Bake 15 minutes or until golden brown.. Serve warm.

Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction Kevin Gilbride, Offensive Coordinator of the 2008 World Champion New York Giants, will be honored at The 23rd Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction, co-chaired by Ray Peach, a retired Executive Vice President of Hudson United Bank and currently serving as Executive Consultant with TD Banknorth, on Wednesday, June 4, 2008, at the Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, Connecticut. The Jim Calhoun Community Service Award will be presented by Coach Calhoun to Paul Pendergast, President and Chief Development Officer for Saint Francis Hospital & Medical Center Foundation. This year's event is dedicated to Meriden's Maloney High School Football Coach Rob Szymaszek. He is a past recipient of the Saint Francis Award. Rob died in 2007 after a long battle with cancer. Proceeds benefit the programs of the Franciscan Life Center, Meriden, Connecticut. The Silent Auction begins at 5:30 pm., followed by program and dinner at 6:30 pm. Auction items include: Three Season Tickets to the New York Giants 2008-2009 Season and four Reserved Tickets to a 2008 Boston Red Sox Game including diner at the exclusive EMC Club hosted by Lou Gorman of the Boston Red Sox. Sponsor in part, ESPN. For more information visit our web site at www.flcenter.org, call (203) 237-8084 or call Al Proto at (203) 239-6330.

Community Tag Sale The Wallingford Kiwanis Club will sponsor a community tag sale to benefit Relay For Life on Saturday, May 10 at 29 N. Plains Highway (across from PNA park) from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. Spaces are avaiable to rent for $20 (bring your own table). For donation information call Bill Cook @ 265-1678 or Jan Donahue @ 697-2150. This event is Rain or Shine!

Meriden Early Learning Blueprint Do you know how many babies will be born in Meriden over the next month? More than 50! That's a lot of babies. What does the future hold for them? And are we as a community ready for them? The Meriden School Readiness Council and Meriden Children First are partnering to lead a process that will result in the creation of a comprehensive, multi-year strategic 'Blueprint' plan to promote learning for our young children and families. The idea was born from a recognition that while there are many great things happening for Meriden's young children, there's more to be done. We were also inspired by similar work undertaken by Hartford and Norwalk in recent years. Over the past couple of months a group of Meriden and community leaders has come together to put together an eight month planning process that will result in a very deep, thoughtful plan for Meriden's young kids. The Blueprint engages our diverse community to build upon our current strengths to improve health, safety, and learning for children from birth to eight. It's quite ambitious, but also quite necessary. Despite best efforts many kids are starting their school careers behind, and staying behind. This plan supports the goals of the Governor's Early Childhood Cabinet in document Ready by 5 and Fine by 9 (www.earlychildhoodpolicy.org) which aims to help children: " Reach appropriate developmental milestones from birth to age 5 " Begin kindergarten with the knowledge, skills and behaviors needed for success in school, and " Have K-3 education experiences that extend children's birth-to-5 learning and ensure consistent progress in achieving reading mastery. This is an important opportunity for Meriden (and 26 other Connecticut) communities to develop a local plan for a system of services that responds to family needs, has measurable child, family and systems outcomes, and that can be jointly owned and measured through a local/state partnership. With a $50,000 grant from the Governor's office on early childhood to do this work, we are now conducting community outreach via focus groups, surveys, etc. The information from these approaches will be combined with other research and key stakeholder interviews. Later this fall, we're proposing a historic early learning summit with full Meriden Board of Education, the City Council, Mayor and the state delegation. Will you help us? Join us at a big community meeting on Thursday, May 29, 6:30 p.m. at John Barry Elementary to hear about and share your reactions to some preliminary Blueprint findings. The vision for our Blueprint is that: All children will come to school ready, willing and able to succeed. Together, we can make this vision happen for all of Meriden's kids. For more information about the Blueprint, contact David Radcliffe at Children First, 630-3566 or email to dwradcliffe@juno.com Look at a stone cutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred-and-first blow it will split in two, and I know it was not the last blow that did it, but all that had gone before. ~Jacob A. Riis

Page 21 May 2008

"Sheltering an Animal's Perspective"

The greatest gift you can give another person is the gift of being present.

Being a volunteer means becoming a member of a caring and compassionate hospice team. Hospice and palliative care is about living every day to its fullest...it's all about quality not quantity of life. Here are some of the things our wonderful hospice and palliative care volunteers say about why they volunteer with Connecticut VNA "My volunteering with Connecticut VNA has been more rewarding than I ever expected. It has made me very comfortable with end of life issues - for myself and for the people I love". Annette, volunteer since 2005 " All of my experiences have been unique to me and my patients, yet somehow common to all hospice volunteers, I would not have missed any of them for the world. In someway, I am making a difference to someone facing a difficult time in life." Nancy, volunteer since 2006 We invite you to join Connecticut VNA's hospice and palliative care volunteer training and get started on a life changing experience! Connecticut VNA is Medicare certified, JCAHO accredited agency offering excellent volunteer training as well as continuing education and support for our volunteers. Join us in making a difference in someone's life - call Jolan Szollosi, Volunteer Coordinator at 203-679-5342.

Gregory M. Simpson If life is to be preserved on this planet, then humans as a species must go beyond caring just about their own companion animals. As Chief Seattle of the Divamish Indians said in 1855, "Whatever happens to the beasts happens also to us. All things are connected." Imagine waking up one day to learn that every pigeon on Earth was gone. Not likely, you may think, as pigeons seem to be everywhere. Actually, it has already happened to one species of pigeons - the passenger pigeon - probably once the most common bird in the world. These birds lived in enormous flocks, as large as a mile wide and 300 miles long. As estimated five billion lived in the United States alone, but on September 1, 1914, the last passenger pigeon, named Martha, died in the Cincinnati Zoo. Billions of passenger pigeons had been hunted and killed in the U.S., never to be seen again. An interesting historical fact, you may say, but this must be an anomaly. Sadly, it is not. According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), in the last few centuries, the rate of extinction has grown 100 to 1000 times the normal pace. Although scientists do not agree on the exact rate of extinction, Harvard biologist, Edward O. Wilson, believes that if extinction continues at its current rate, half of all species could be extinct within one human lifetime. Most telling is that the vast majority of recent extinctions are anthropogenic, i.e., influenced by humans. Did Man learn a lesson with the extinction of the passenger pigeon? Hardly. Consider the beautiful emerald green Carolina parakeet. At their peak, they existed in numbers exceeded only by the passenger pigeon - until they, too, were hunted to extinction. Less than four years after the passenger pigeon became extinct, the last Carolina parakeet, named Inca, died in 1918 at the same Cincinnati Zoo. A 1995 United Nations report cites the total known number of animal extinctions in the last four hundred years to be slightly under five hundred. According to States of the Union: Ranking America's Biodiversity, Hawaii leads the states with the most extinction. Of the remaining top ten states with the highest rates, seven are in the southern U.S. California and Ohio comprise the other two states with the most extinction. Hawaii also leads the list of states with the highest ratio of threatened species, followed by California and Nevada. According to state wildlife agency records, more than 100 million animals are killed by hunters each year. That does not include the millions of animals killed for which there are no reports. According to statistics provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, doves and squirrels are America's most hunted animals, with almost twenty-three million of each killed in 2001. The next largest groups killed are ducks (12,740,000) and rabbits (10,942,000). The remaining almost thirty million of America's most hunted animals include grouse, quails, partridges, deer, pheasants, geese, and raccoons. The above statistics also do not reflect the millions of animals that are trapped annually in devices that cause excruciating pain accompanied by frequent tearing of tendons and ligaments and breaking of bones. Many animals chew or twist off their limbs in an effort to escape. Remarkably, the U.S. is one of only a handful of developed nations in which trapping has not been outlawed. According to a report by the USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service, in a year's time 368,000 wild fox were clubbed, suffocated, or shot after being caught in leghold traps, strangled by snares, or hunted and shot. Almost half a million coyotes and over two hundred thousand opossums are just two other examples of wildlife that shared the same fate. The late Cleveland Amory, founder of Fund for Animals, wrote in his book, Man Kind? Our Incredible War on Wildlife, "To single out the most persecuted animal on earth is not easy. Man has persecuted them all, and with almost equal abandon." Under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, between 1967 and 2002, a total of 1,318 species were listed as endangered or threatened. Of those, nine have become extinct. For those who care about the slaughter of wildlife, Cleveland Amory ends Man Kind? with the following charge: "The hour is late and the animals' need is great. It is past high time for all of us to be a voice of the voiceless, to speak for those who can't, to work together for the most oppressed minority of them all." A report based on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment estimates that 10 to 30% of known mammalian, amphibian and bird species are at risk of extinction. At the Bronx Zoo, there is a plaque which speaks to this risk and the need to respond. It reads: In the end We will conserve Only what we love We will love only What we understand And we will understand Only what we are taught The lesson for today is this: extinct is forever. For the animals, Gregory M. Simpson

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Page 22 May 2008

Meriden Movers Community Walking Program -

Come Walk with Us! Meriden Movers, a community walking program sponsored by the Meriden Health Department, welcomes all Meriden residents to attend weekly group walks at the Quinnipiac River Linear walking trail. The group walks on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 5:30-6:30pm. Walkers are to meet near the red bridge at the Linear walking trail, located at the corner of Oregon Road and Route 70 in South Meriden. A group warm-up and stretch will be held at 5:30, and then walkers can start their journey down the 1.3 mile trail. The trail is marked every quarter mile so participants know how far they have walked. Everyone is encouraged to walk at their own pace. Bring a water bottle, and dress for the weather. In case of rain, the walk is cancelled. Dogs on leashes are welcome. A limited number of pedometers are still available, and will be passed out at the walks. For more information, please call the Meriden Health Department's Community Health Education office at 630-4238.

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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? As stay at home moms we have seen and heard it all. We will give you our candid advice to any question you may have. We don't always agree but we care. We are the real housewives. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue. Keep the questions coming and thanks for reading. Enjoy the spring season. -Flora and June Dear Housewives, My niece believes it is okay to download music from her computer. She sometimes downloads it off websites she doesn't pay for. Is this common practice these days? I think it is wrong. What do you think? - i tune her out in Wallingford JUNE: Dear i tune, I don't personally download music but just about anyone under the age of 30 does or has it seems. The twenty somethings and tween scene is most prevalent in this area. Think of the 80's, before computers were common place. We heard a song we liked, we taped it off the radio and played it over and over until we knew each song. We bought a tape and lent it or made a copy for a friend. We have all done it unless you lived in a dungeon. The computer is the modern day version of that. Times have changed and instead of borrowing your friends album or tape kids send it via computer. I don't think it has impacted many negatively. In fact, many artists find it is a way to get their music out there. Some allow a few songs to be downloaded for free off their sites. In addition, some of the biggest downloaded names like Jay Z, Eminem, Ozzy Osbourne, Madonna and so on are certainly not hurting for money. They cry foul but they live like kings and queens many times over. I don't think P Diddy as an artist or a producer or a record label will ever hurt for money from the downloading craze. Tommy Matola, Clive Owen, Death Row Records are as rich as can be. Tom Cruise is still rich even though some kid downloaded Mission Impossible 3. If her parents don't bother her about it then leave her along; it is not your business. FLORA: Flora does disagree. Most very successful musicians started out playing in school events, had garage bands or took lessons at a local music shop. They worked their way up to the top of the ladder of success and they deserve each penny they earned. The singers with music on the radio did not wake up in a 12,000 sq. foot home and have daily massages and drivers, for many it took years. Downloading music illegally is stealing. Plain and simple. You are right June in that some do live as kings and queens...perhaps the problem is the enormous record contracts and high priced concert ticket prices. But, we live in a free market economy (and wise guy-free market doesn't mean 'free downloading'...) and the successful artists of our day make a lot of money. They also work very hard. So, share this information with your niece and inform her. Tell her that when she illegally downloads music from the internet, she takes not only from the artist's work, but the sound engineers, the song writers, producers, managers and all the support staff. JUNE: Looks like we have a debate. I am sure we could go back and forth with good points on both sides for pages. Hard work and luck really did help make stars huge. They should spread some money to the support staff although I think they do pretty well too. In our world nothing is plain and simple. Okay kids, get the old record button ready on your tape decks (are they around anymore?) and tape off the radio. They don't call that illegal. Dear Housewives, I work third shift on the weekends. My husband just needs to watch the kids for two days (Sat. and Sun.) while I sleep in the day to go to work at night. Problem is he and the kids are so loud that I can not sleep even though I am upstairs and they are down. He can't control them for two days and I am exhausted all night through work. Any ideas? --Desperately seeking snoozin' FLORA: Sound blocking earphones may do the trick. Set up the house downstairs so that everything they need is down there so they don't go up and down. You can always ask around at work and see what works for other parents in your situation. But, if this is a discipline situation, you and your husband need to talk about how to manage this. You can also practice with the children during the week to develop the behavior you want. Training,is needed. What happened to 'outside voices'? Oh, if they take the voices outside, make sure it is not under your bedroom window! JUNE: You can put him in the paper and sell him. "Husband for sale, to a good home..." Okay, so you can't do that but you can tell him that it is important that you get some sleep and that he needs to do a better job of keeping the kids quiet. If a simple "suggestion" doesn't work set up some places that he can take the kids during the day once and a while. You can use ear plugs. You can put on a TV or music so you get used to the background noise rather than paying attention to what the kids are doing. Good luck. If all else fails try to find a job during the day on the weekends. Your husband will still be watching them but they can be as loud as they want. DVD Review JUNE: Flora, I watched the movie Perfect Strangers with Bruce Willis and Halle Berry. This was supposed to be a thriller but it was more like a dud. I thought the writing was bad and the acting was worse. Don't waste your money on this one. And definitely don't download it. (wink, wink). FLORA: I haven't seen Perfect Strangers but I did see Running With Scissors and aside from the fact that the content was a bit strange, I enjoyed the quality acting. It was a memoir and told the story of a young boy growing up with an alcoholic father (Alec Baldwin) and a mentally ill mother (Annette Bening) who abandons him and he is to live his teen years with her therapist. I am still reading Book of Names. I am so tired at night that even though it is a 'page turner', I fall asleep. Nobody trips over mountains. It is the small pebble that causes you to stumble. Pass all the pebbles in your path and you will find you have crossed the mountain. ~Author Unknown

TREASURES OF THE SEA By Dorothy Gonick

Page 23 Mayl 2008

Meriden Public Library Children's Library Is Getting Ready For Summer! Meriden Public Library Children's Library will start giving away FREE tickets for our professional performers, Summer Showcase on June 2nd. These programs will be held each week starting June 23rd on Mondays at 6:00 PM. and on Thursdays at 10:30 AM. Registration for story hours will also begin June 2nd. Story hours will begin the week of June 23rd. Celebrations of Life and Home

It was late afternoon and the long drive was over! We piled out of the car for a brief walk on the beach before quickly setting up our tent at Salvo Campground, near Cape Hatteras on North Carolina's Outer Banks. All through the night we were soothed as we listened to the ebb and flow of tidal waves as they washed the shore in measured rhythm, creeping higher on the incoming tide, leaving its treasures as it flowed back across the sand on its way out. Early the next morning we wandered along the beach with our children, Peter, Marie and Diane, excitedly filling their pails with shells found among the flotsam scattered about. Marie gleefully held up a long, stringy thing that looked like a bleached swirl of spiny backbone. The wet, rubbery 'thing' was dumped into her pail among the varied shells of many colors and shapes. We'd be sure to look that up in our Seashore Guide. Then we settled ourselves by a nearby dune to admire the many finds tumbling from their pails. There were smooth and ribbed clamshells, large quahogs and tiny coquinas, blue mussel shells with pearly linings, fan shaped scallop shells and oyster shells that looked like weathered concrete with tiny holes made by oyster drill snails. We were amazed that such small snails could drill through those thick oyster shells. There were other large and small snail shells of periwinkles, conches, whelks and moon shells to admire, and hold to the ear, listening for the roar of the ocean. Slipper shells of creamy pinks and lavenders amused us as we wondered what tiny feet could fit inside. The starfish were special as we noted their abundant feet along each point and the mouth centered underneath. We would like to have watched one gripping a clam and feasting on it. What a creative God we have, who fashioned all these creatures that live in the sea, equipping each one with protection and the ability to move and to garner its food. Marie toyed with the spirally strip of flat pouches that looked like a strange lei or the curling vertebrae of a backbone. Each pouch had a tiny hole and seemed filled with sand. Our Seashore Guide book told us that she'd found a Channeled Whelk egg case. Peter pinched one of the pouches apart and we stared in fascination at the many very teeny tiny whelk shells that tumbled out. We counted forty that fell from it-and were amazed! Each tiny sculptured shell was meant to house a living creature whose shell would continue to form into a large spiral beauty, housing that squirmy creature that many people find delectable as scrungili. Picking up a larger whelk shell for comparison, Peter was surprised to see a live hermit crab inside, using it as its home. Back to the sea he carried it and watched it scurry away. We checked out other shells and found a small crab within a round moon shell. When Diane hurried to the shore with it and bid it goodbye, we became distracted by the sandpipers that were skittering along the edge of the beach. It was delightful watching them snap up morsels of sea life, then scurry back with their wings flapping as more waves were flung ashore. We then decided to mimic them by scurrying down to the shore and search for other sea treasures, leaving footprints in the sand. So began our week of wonder; exploring the beach and the sea under the summer sun.

THAILAND TRAVEL PROGRAM MAY 27 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY The Meriden Public Library will host "Robert and Victoria's Most Excellent Thai Adventure" a travel program by Victoria Navin and Robert Kiley on Tuesday, May 27 at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the Griffin Meeting Room. Robert Kiley and his fiancée Victoria Navin made a two week trip to Thailand in February 2008 in which they visited Bangkok, Chiang Mai and points North. Included were treks to the Long Neck people of the Northern Hill tribes and a boat crossing of the Mekong River into Laos. In the course of their day long treks from their base in Chiang Mai, they took an elephant ride, Victoria rode down a river on a bamboo raft and they visited an orchid farm, a snake farm, and an umbrella factory among other sites. The program is free and open to the public. Contact the Community Services Department at 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com or sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to reserve a seat for either the 2:30 p.m. or the 6:30 p.m. program. Don't be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do the little jobs well, the big ones will tend to take care of themselves. ~Dale Carnegie

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Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day I wonder if you know how much I love you? You make all the difference! Love, your best friend Happy Mothers Day Mommy, You are My Sunshine! I adore you! Happy Mommy's Day, with lots of hugs and kisses! Your son, Hunter Christian Pageau

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Wallingford Senior Center News and Events

MAY IS NATIONAL OLDER AMERICANS MONTH This year's theme is "Working Together for Strong, Healthy, and Supportive Communities." STUDENT ART EXHIBIT May 1-3, 2008 The Wallingford Senior Center is the site of the 24th Annual Jordan Abeshouse Memorial Art Exhibit which showcases the artwork of local students. A TASTE OF RETIREMENT LIVING on May 21, 10:00-12:00 noon The chefs of area independent and assisted living retirement communities will share their culinary talents with us on May 21, from 10:00 to noon. Sample delicious fare provided by Ashlar Village and Pond Ridge; Atria Larson Place; Maplewoods at Hamden; and the Orchards at Southington. In addition to the great food, representatives will share information about the services and amenities each community offers. Information, food, and door prizes await you! Register after May 1 by calling 265-7753. DCF CHILD MENTORING PROGRAM and FREE LUNCH on Thursday, May 22, 11:00 a.m. The CT Department of Children and Families is celebrating National Foster Care Awareness Month and is holding a special event in our center on May 22. Come learn how you can make a difference in the life of a child by participating in the Youth Mentoring Program. Following the presentation, DCF will provide you with a complimentary lunch catered by Dylan's Deli. Registration is required. Please call Paulette Limato at DCF (238-8464) by May 15. MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM Tuesday, May 27, 11:00 a.m. Our program of remembrance will include a color guard, guest speaker Raymond Chappell, and the Vintage Voices. Mr. Chappell, President of the Wallingford Historical Society, will speak on the origin and solemn significance of Memorial Day, and will display a variety of commemorative artifacts. SOCIAL SERVICES

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SHINGLES VACCINE Ever had the painful skin rash, Shingles? If you have had Chicken Pox, you are at risk for Shingles. The new Shingles vaccine reduces the risk of Shingles and its associated pain. Some Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) now cover the Shingles vaccine and administration fees as long as the vaccine is on the plan's formulary. Check with your Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan customer service center (phone number is on card) to find out if you're covered, and consider being vaccinated. CT STATEWIDE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Do you care for or know someone who has been diagnosed with an irreversible dementia? The Agency on Aging can help if the individual with dementia: has annual income of less than $30,000; has personal cash assets that are less than $80,000 (house is not counted). Services include: adult day care, home health aide, homemaker/companion, skilled nursing care, or short term nursing care. Please contact a respite care manager at 785-8533 for more information. LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP MEETING THE CHALLENGE Friday, May 16 - 10:15 William Webb, Orientation and Mobility Specialist from Board of Education and Services for the Blind, will talk about safe travel in the neighborhood and community, especially crossing busy intersections. New members always welcome. Register after May 1 by calling 265-7753. WHERE WILL I LIVE NOW? Affordable, Independent Housing Choices on Wednesday, May 14, 10:00 a.m. Are you now, or will you be making a decision about a retirement community for yourself, for a parent, or for a family member? Hear a short description of each affordable residential community, ask questions, and pick up information. Housing forum participants include: Elim Park Residential Care Housing; Luther Ridge Independent; Assisted & Congregate Living; Tower One/Tower East; Masonicare Residential Care Housing; Silver Pond Apartments; and the Wallingford Housing Authority. Door prizes and refreshments. Free and open to the public. Please call after May 1 for reservations-2657753. IRS STIMULUS PAYMENT Don't normally file an income tax return? People who don't normally file income tax, and receive Social Security, railroad-retirement benefits, or veteran's disability compensation are eligible to receive the stimulus payment. What could you get: A payment of $300 ($600 for married couples). What you need to do: Call the senior center and make an appointment for help from the AARP Tax-Aide Program on May 20; or drop by the senior center and pick up Form 1040A; or download a form and get answers to rebate questions at: www.irs.gov. ELDERLY AND TOTALLY DISABLED TAX RELIEF AND RENTER'S REBATE PROGRAMS Homeowners Tax Relief Program Deadline: Elderly Homeowners: May 15 Totally Disabled Homeowners: May 15 Tax Deferral Program: May 15 Additional Veterans' Program: Oct. 1 Renter's Rebate Program: Starting May 15 through September 15, this program provides a partial refund of rent and/or utility bills (excluding telephone bills) to individuals who meet criteria for tax relief. Please direct questions to the Assessor's Office at 294-2001.

Page 25 Mayl 2008

Accepting Life's Transitions The Center for Successful Aging and MidState's LaPlanche Clinic will be jointly sponsoring a presentation titled "Accepting Life's Transitions" on May 27, 2008. The presentation will be held from 10:30-11:30am in the mezzanine of the Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Center, located at 22 West Main Street in Meriden. As we grow older, we experience many changes in our lives. Aging is a series of transitions; some gradual and some abrupt. These changes could be to our physical health, a loss of a friend or loved one, or the change of residence to senior housing. We can also develop new interests and make new friends who help us adapt along the way. Edwina Ranganathan, MSW, LADC, will lead a discussion on how to cope and adjust to these changes. This presentation is free and open to the public. For more information please call Rita Kowalchik at the Meriden Health Department, 630-4222.

May 16-23 is Stroke Awareness Week In recognition of Stroke Awareness Week, the Meriden Health Department will be hosting 2 free stroke awareness screenings for Meriden residents. The screenings will be held: May 21, from 9:30-11:30am at the Meriden Senior Center (22 West Main Street) May 22, from 9:00-11:00am at the Meriden Health Department (165 Miller Street). The screening is part of the Department's new initiative called W.I.S.H.H. - Women Interested in Staying Heart Healthy - which encourages women to take control of their heart health by learning the signs and symptoms of a cardiovascular emergency (heart attack and stroke), controlling their blood pressure and cholesterol, and making healthy lifestyle changes. A stroke is a type of cardiovascular disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. Stroke is the nations' third leading cause of death, and is a medical emergency. Know these warning signs of stroke and teach them to others. Every second counts: Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination Sudden, severe headache with no known cause Appointments are required for the stroke screening. Please call the Meriden Health Department's Clinic office at 6304234 for more information on stroke and to make your appointment.

I Knew General George Patton By Wallis Battles (Article written in 2005) General Patton was in charge of the 8th Army in Italy when I served there. At his time I was a staff sergeant. Many of the GIs didn't like the "Blood & Guts" Patton, but I developed a very good relationship with him. He actually showed courage in coming to the front line and asking questions of those stationed there. I learned early that the ignorant replies from the men made him angry. I told myself, "I better know why I'm here and what I'm doing." One day he saw me, got out of his jeep, came over to me and asked me some questions. I gave him some good answers and he liked what I had to say. He said, "You're the first one in a long time who knows what it's all about." Some time went by and I was called back to the Battalion Headquarters; General Patton was calling me. He directed me to his area and put me in charge of all the prisoners coming off the lines. Before long I, and 30 GIs helping me, had hundreds of prisoners. Patton gave me full power to do whatever I could to get them to the very rear of his headquarters. We stopped convoys and trains and any units that brought supplies of any kind to the front lines. My men would watch me while I was talking to the leader of the unit. I would give them a signal; at that time they would lead from the rear to the front or as far as they could before the unit pulled away. This was not always successful but in any case my men would accompany some prisoners in trucks to headquarters. General Patton was diligent in assisting me to solve any issues. The general listened to my statements about any person in the US Army who gave me a hard time, then investigated and often demoted them in rank. My most difficult prisoners were Hitler's right-hand men, the SS Troops of Germany. I can truly say that I respected and enjoyed working with General George Patton. In periods of my army life I was honor GI for General Bradley and General Eisenhower. About the author: Wallis Battles served in Europe in the US Army from 1941 - January 1946. His decorations and citations include: Good conduct medal & Combat Infantry Badge European Theatre of Operations Ribbon (with 6 Bronze Battle Stars) (with 1 Bronze Arrowhead) Purple Heart World War II Victory Medal Lapel button issued ASR Scores: September 2, 1945 Served overseas as enlisted man Battlefield Commission; 2nd Lieutenant (1943) 1st Lieutenant (Later) Promoted to Captain December 14, 1945 Captain Wallis Battles was recalled into the Korean War in 1950 until 1953. He was dismissed from active Army Reserve on November 13, 1955.

The Meriden Student's Art Festival The Meriden Student's Art Festival will be hosted by Gallery 53 and the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center May 15th to May 30th. Described as "best in show" by art teacher Chris Webster of Lincoln Middle School, 100 students will have an opportunity to present their work to the community. The event is open to the public and admission is free. Gallery 53 will exhibit the work of students from Meriden's middle school, high school and Wilcox Technical School. There will be a reception at the Gallery on May 15th from 4:00 to 7:00PM. The Gallery is located at 53 Colony Street, Meriden. The Augusta Curtis Culture Center will be displaying the work of the Meriden elementary schools art students. There will be an opening reception on May 15th from 4:00 to 7:00PM at 175 East Main Street, Meriden, that is also free and open to the public. The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center is a new organization. Formed in September, 2000, it works out of the century old, marble Greek revival Curtis Memorial building. The center is dedicated to exploring diverse cultures and to cultivating the arts and sciences in the community. Visit their website: www.curtisculturalcenter.org or call 203-639-2856.

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Page 26 May 2008

Happy Mothers Day Mama, You are a STAR in our eyes. We love you so much! Hugs and Kisses, Lillie and Ava

Celebrations of Life and Home

.My fifth grade teacher made us memorize this....one of many actually.....it is one of my favorites....and I am forever grateful to her for giving me the appreciation for poetry.....her name was Mrs. Agnes O'Brien and she taught at St. Rose in Meriden A Vagabond Song by Bliss Carmen There is something in the Autumn That is native to my blood Touch of manner, hint of mood And my heart is like a rhyme With the yellow and the purples And the crimsons keep time The scarlet of the maples Can shake me like a cry Of bugles going by And my lonely spirit thrills To see the frosty asters Like a smoke upon the hills There is something in October That sets the gypsy blood a stir We must rise and follow her When from every hill of flame She calls and calls Each Vagabond by name....... Thoughtscape

The Meriden School Readiness Council and the Meriden Board of Education sponsored a community wide preschool and kindergarten teacher event on April 23, 2008. The event gathered community and board of education preschool and kindergarten teachers together. At this year’s annual event, teachers shared literacy activities with each other. Approximately 80 teachers gathered together to discuss how they define literacy instruction for kindergarten/preschool students, some successful strategies used to help students during literacy instruction and shared some literacy activities they have currently worked on in their classrooms. The positive feedback from the events have been overwhelming. The teachers enjoy getting time to meet with each other and share expectations and ideas.

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

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View through a city window Tiny stick figure Walks along sky - hung construction beam Inspecting what it has created Cubic structure of the modern pharaohs Rises out of the urban ages Soon to vanish in man's maddening maelstrom Ant - like creatures we are Amidst things gargantuan That we build and destroy Networking our lives Into so many shapes and sizes In vain effort to make sense Of all that we know (or think we know) Tiny stick figure Decides it has had enough for one day It rides from firmament to solid ground To pass the night tapping untold reservoirs of engineered thought Scheming, dreaming For there is nothing else to do By Gifford B. Roberts

Page 27 Mayl 2008

Home Country Slim Randles Delbert's at it again. You know Delbert McLain, our local chamber of commerce? He's the guy who wants to bring lots of people here so the place isn't quite as nice as it is now. Well, ol' Delbert zipped into the Mule Barn truck stop the other day, plopped down at the empty Round Table, and motioned for those of us at the philosophy counter to join him. We did. "Boys," he said, when we were seated and sipping, "I want to bounce an idea off you and see how it goes." He almost whispered, "Two words … knife sharpening!" "Sure," said Dud, pulling a diamond steel from a holster on his belt. "I'll sharpen it for you, Delbert." "No, I don't mean I need a knife sharpened," he said, "I mean … a knife-sharpening contest. Actually, a knife-sharpening fiesta!" His face beamed, he spread his arms, his hands palms up toward Heaven as the sheer Divine magnitude of the idea settled in. Doc reached for another sugar packet. "Just think of it, guys," Delbert said, "A veritable bevy of blade bevellers descending on our community, spending money in our restaurants, buying the latest in knife gear from the hardware store, filling the rooms at the motel." He looked around. Steve's coffee made him cough. Doc chuckled into his hand. Dud put his diamond steel away. "Sounds like a sharp idea to me, Del," said Doc. "I like the way you came right to the point." "An edgy proposition," Dud said, "but one that whets the appetite." Steve recovered from his coughing fit. "You could hold it out in the pasture and call it 'Hone on the Range.'" Delbert ignored the groaning and smiled. "That's it, boys. Think on it. Let's come up with some good angles." And Doc said, "I hear 10 to 15 degrees is best for a really sharp blade." Cracker packets flew.

YOGA PROGRAM MAY 21 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Need to rejuvenate your day? Come join Laura Hartwig at Meriden Public Library on May 21 at 6:30 p.m. for a discussion on the basics of yoga and participate in a 20 minute chair yoga session. Laura will provide a brief overview on yoga philosophy, diet, breathing techniques and meditation. After the discussion she will lead you in a chair yoga session. Come prepared wearing loose fitting clothes and slip off shoes. Chair yoga can be done at your desk, on an airplane, or anywhere. Laura graduated from Lotus Gardens Teacher Training in Sherman, CT in January 2008, earning her 200 hour certificate. She has been practicing yoga for eleven years and is excited to share the benefits. The program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. Contact the Community Service Department @ 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com or go to www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to reserve a seat.

The difference between perseverance and obstinacy is that one comes from a strong will, and the other from a strong won't. ~Henry Ward Beecher Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day to the best Mom in the whole wide world! Love, The Kids

Emersons first caught fish.

A 16" Brown Trout, his first was caught by 5 year old Emerson Chvisuk .Fishing with Grandpa Bob Golitko at Clarks Pond.My fish was bigger than Grandpas said Emerson,he was right.Emerson son of Brad & Kira Chvisuk lives in Wallingford. The 2 plan on being fishing buddies. Celebrations of Life & Home 'Happy 81st Birthday Gram!' You are and always have been the best! Love, The Fam

Celebrations of Life and Home

Wallingford Project Graduation 2008 Wallingford Project Graduation 2008 marks the 19th year of a community wide effort to make graduation night safe for Wallingford High School graduates. This event is supported by Mayor's Council on Substance Prevention and local businesses. The mission "Project Graduation is devoted to keeping Wallingford graduates safe and substance free on graduation night" On Saturday May 10th, Applebys in Wallingford will be sponsoring a Pancake Breakfast from 8-10am. Tickets can be purchased for $5 at the Youth and Social Services at 6 Fairfield Blvd., Wallingford from 9-5pm Monday-Friday, 294-2175. Tickets can also be purchased at the door at Applebys the day of the event.- Liz Davis In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~Albert Schweitzer

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On Mother's Day I have written a poem for you. In the interest of poetic economy and truth, I have succeeded in concentrating my deepest feelings and beliefs into two perfectly crafted lines: You're my mother, I would have no other! ~Forest Houtenschil Happy Mothers Day

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Happy Mother's Day Grammy Jeanne, Nonni Connie, Nana Angie, Nana Betty, and Great-Grandma Zita Love, Dylan Happy Mothers Day Happy Mother’s Day to the best wife and mother that there ever could be! Love, Paul

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The People's Press May 2008 Issue