The People's Press October 2009 Issue

Get Happy With It!

By the People . . . For the People Serving Central Connecticut www.peoplespressnews.com

October 2009 • Volume 10, Issue 120

Joseph Tkacz Sr. celebrated his 91st birthday party on August 8, 2009 with family and friends. He was surprised with a taste of Hawaii. The Hawaiian Luau was very festive and enjoyed by all that were there.

In the picture, Back row, From left to right, Joe Tkacz 3rd, grandson. Deb Belancik, daughter, Joe Jr. son, Front row, Joe Sr.- birthday boy, great granddaughter Josselyn Tkacz, and grandson, Brian Tkacz, In the back ground, grandson Ben Belancik Jr., Kristin Culver, Annemarie Tkacz, John Tkacz all nieces and nephews.

He had a grin from ear to ear. He loves a good family and friends gathering. Joe is a natural for making jokes and socializing, He was all smiles.

Political Advertisement

Elect Wallingford Democrats - Vote Row B Maintain the Balance of Power on November 3rd For Town Council Geno J. Zandri, Jr.

Robert Gross

John J. Sullivan

Donald A. Harwood

Nick Economopoulos

Vincenzo M. DiNatale

Jesse S. Reynolds

Valerie N. Ford

Robby L. Robinson

Patrick J. Reynolds

John Jay Cei, Jr.

Michael J. Votto, Sr.

Vincent F. Testa, Jr

For Board of Education Joseph Pannone

Kathy Castelli

www.Wallingforddemocrats.org Paid for by the Wallingford Democratic Town Committee, Mario DiNatale, Treasurer

Page 2 October 2009

For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together. For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad. ~Edwin Way Teale

Celebrations of Life and Home

Lexi - Happy 9th Birthday. Love, Aunt Cyndi

A Beautiful Autumn Photo by Lisa Halpin

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Page 3 October 2009

Page 4 October 2009

The Way We Were -by Janet Althouse It was mentioned we might write about what we would do if we didn't have TV, computers, video games, etc. Well, I remember what it was like BEFORE we had these things. I'm not so sure I could give them all up now after having become indoctrinated or maybe the word is addicted, but I know we had a lot of fun before we knew they existed.

I remember how much fun we had on warm evenings just being outside in the dark. It was so mysterious. We played games like Kick the Can which was definitely more exciting in the dark. Someone was "IT" and everyone else scattered and hid in the shadows. The "it" person had to find us. Home base was a circle with a tin can in the middle.

While the "it" person was off looking to find someone to take his place and be "IT", we would try to sneak in and kick the can out of the circle. A lot of laughing and calling out to one another. Would the kids today trade that for sitting and playing video games? They really don't know what they are missing.

Then we had radio. I loved to sit on a stool in front of the radio and listen to the "Lone Ranger", "Fibber McGee and Molly", the early Soap Operas, and many others. The fun part was using your imagination and really seeing these things. Almost like television, but you used your mind and made everything and everybody look like you imagined them to look.

The radio also kept us abreast of the news. I remember sitting in front of that old radio and hearing a News Broadcast telling the world that Franklin Delano Roosevelt had just died. I was not very old, but I understood the significance of it all and shed a tear or two.

As for the telephone, I was probably about ten or so when we got our first phone. How my mother loved that. Of course, we had a party line and had to wait our turn to speak to our family and friends but what excitement to hear a friend's voice come over that little instrument.

But one of the most fun things we did in the evenings was sing. We lived next door to our Methodist minister and his family. The mother of the family played the piano and we would all gather around, my mother and dad, me and the minister's son and two daughters and we would sing our hearts out. And it wasn't always hymns. I remember the war songs like, "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree", "White Cliffs of Dover", "When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again", and other popular songs. I'm sure some of you have your favorites. I can still remember all the lyrics from so many of those songs when I am privileged to hear them today. Could be one of the best times I remember from the "good old days" when we had to entertain ourselves. I went on to be a "choir singer". I started in choirs when I was about thirteen and just recently had to give it up.

Oh, yes, it's good to go back and reminisce, and we did have great times, but we have great times today, too. The things we do are different, but they are still enjoyable. Especially when they are done with family. My family plays card games and word games and games where you have to think and come up with names of things and places. Even the young ones learn fast and they think they are so grown up.

But could I give up televison totally? Even though there isn't a lot I enjoy watching, I still have to watch my favorites. And my computer? After all that's how I am able to share these thoughts with you right now. Then, too, I need to keep in touch with all my friends through e-mail. And now with Face Book, I find out things about my children and grand children they probably would never have thought to tell me. I now know what is going on sooner than waiting until they get around to calling or e-mailing me.

Last but not least, "MY CELL PHONE". How I wish I had had one when the kids were younger. To be able to phone them and know where they are and how they are at any given moment. There's no way I could give that up. Of course, they don't always immediately answer, but it's still better than the land line phones. What do you say parents?

A great invention? If you can't get them to answer, you can text them or send a picture of you franctically pulling your hair out because they don't answer. (Just a little levity there.)

So, all in all I guess I'm stuck with the modern-day inventions. Still I don't let them control my life. (Well maybe one or two Soap Operas) I do other activities, like knitting, reading the Bible and other books, baking, picking berries and being with the family. I just wonder what our grand children's children will be asked to consider giving up in order to make their lives less hectic. Using the family helicopter? Or their personal tele-transporter? dottsrun72@yahoo.com

Halloween Happenings at the Meriden YMCA Mountain Mist Outdoor Center

What: Halloween Happenings with FREE hay rides, movie, and pumpkin painting! A fun evening for the whole family!

When: Friday October 23rd, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Meriden YMCA Mountain Mist Outdoor Center, High Hill Road, Meriden Cost: FREE admission for everyone. A $3 meal deal is available for purchase which includes a hotdog or hamburger, drink, and snack. Y...because you matter.

Happy 9th Anniversary People’s Press!

You keep on delivering the best in positive news and we‘ll keep on delivering the best in flowers, arrangements and gourmet gift baskets!

Wallingford Flower and Gift Shoppe Wallingford’s Florist Since 1950

190 Center Street 203-265-1514

OCTOBER COMPUTER CLASSES AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be offering individual computer classes during the month of October. Volunteer Bill Carr will be at the library every Monday and Wednesday from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. for people who would like individual instruction on the computer. Bring your questions about Word, Windows, Excel, the internet or email. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 to reserve a session.

The 13th Annual Turkey Shoot Golf Classic 2009 The Wallingford Parks and Recreation's 13th Annual Turkey Shoot Golf Classic will be held at the Tradition Golf Club on Saturday, Oct. 17th (rain date T.B.A.) The 18 hole, co-ed, 4-person team scramble tournament will feature special skill holes and a putting contest. The fee includes greens and cart fees, breakfast, lunch and prizes. The shotgun start is 11AM, registration, breakfast and putting contest will begin at 10AM. Fees for the tournament are $85 for Wallingford residents and $90 for non-residents. Registration for the tournament is at the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department located at 6 Fairfiield Boulevard. For more information, please contact Elaine Doherty, Tournament Supervisor, at 203.265-7349 The foliage has been losing its freshness through the month of August, and here and there a yellow leaf shows itself like the first gray hair amidst the locks of a beauty who has seen one season too many. ~Oliver Wendell

90th Anniversary

Girls Inc. celebrates 90th Anniversary You couldn't ask for anything better…a bright, warm, sunny day and lots of smiling faces. Girls Inc. marked its 90th anniversary in style on September 19th with a good old fashioned party -including food, snow cones, cotton candy, face painting, and moon bounces. The object was to plan a fun-filled afternoon for the community to come together and celebrate the 90 years that Girls Inc. has been in existence as an organization. It was also a great opportunity to reconnect with Girls Inc. members and also to reach out to potential members who could learn about all the great things that Girls Inc. has to offer young girls. Special thanks to all that came out and supported Girls Inc. and helped make this such a great day!

Thank You!!!

Ted’s Restaurant would like to thank the city of Meriden, our surrounding communities and all of our patrons as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary!

As a family owned restaurant since the day we opened our doors in 1959, we have proudly served our Steamed Cheeseburgers from our original location on Broad Street. We would like to thank the community for their 50 years of support and we look forward to 50 more!

World Famous

TED’S Restaurant Since 1959

1046 South Broad Street in Meriden * 203-237-6660 www.tedsrestaurant.com Mon.-Sat. 11am-10pm Sunday 11am-8pm

Page 5 October 2009

What I love about my hometown...

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ~Albert Camus

by Carole Golitko I came to Wallingford in 1971 a fairly new bride & soon to be mother. I had wonderful neighbors The Chamberlains.

They taught me a lot about gardening & giving back to this earth. I have continued over the next 38 years doing so. I learned at my grandmothers house in NJ how to garden but they helped me fine tune it. Along with many gardeners & farmers many gone now. I met several people who I remember fondly, Mrs. Ianuzzi who taught me how to pickle eggplant (I still do) Betty Geremia (a sweetheart) who gave me great advice raising my daughter when my own Mom wasn't available. This is a great town to live in & I enjoy participating in all it has to offer & the diversity of its people. I miss the farms there were many, but keep in touch with the ones who share my love of the land. Through the Garden club my dear friend Ellie Tessmer (she's so smart)my friend s The Lagerstroms (Self Farm)& many workshops I attend to keep this agriculture alive. We are lucky in Wallingford to have Andy & his local news to keep us abreast of activities & the adults , children,& pets who are part of this town. We have much to be grateful & thankful for here, let's keep it going Pass it On. Carole Golitko

Cookbook The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc ran the 2009 Gardener’s Market Saturday mornings at the Railroad Station Green.

The Wallingford Garden Club sponsored a ‘Limited Edition’ Cookbook entitled “Garden to Kitchen”. Many people involved with the Wallingford Gardeners Market submitted recipes for the cookbook. Garden Club members and vendors: Shirley Lagerstrom and Carole/Bob Golitko; Wallingford Center Inc Board mem-

Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties Here we are in fall with some very nice weather. Why can't it stay like this through March? I've spoken to a lot of people who agree with me. Wishing and talking isn't going to change anything I'm sure.

Some of us are still fortunate enough to get a veggie or two. Though I can't remember when I've seen such ugly scrawny plants. Let's hope next year will be a normal growing season.

A lot of the flowers are making their exit. But with those extra nice days we had my pink simplicity roses have gone into a second beautiful blooming. The yellow evening prim-rose which I've mentioned many times did a turn about this year. After raising them for 20 or so years instead of flowering until the middle of September they quit about the third week of August. After examining them carefully I found 3 buds. On the 18th of September the finale came. Or so I thought. But the last beauty surprised me on the 24th. About all that's left to bloom are my chrysanthemums. Their buds are still very small so I won't be expecting any blossoms for another few weeks. Hope the cold weather stays away long enough so they will be able to flower.

Butterfly bushes are sprouting up all over the place. If they survive winter most will be given away next spring.

And there will be many perennials I'll be looking for homes for. Have disposed of some of the dead plants but I've still got a long way to go.

Dawn and Andy became the parents of The People's Press in 2000. I wrote my first article in the spring of 2002.

I've heard nothing but praise for their newspaper. Congratulations to them and may it be around for a very long time.

My hibernation plans are beginning to whirl around in my head. Should have them completed for the next issue.

My last writing for 2009.

Flowerecerely Yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien P.S. Our son Keith, as you know, lives in Paris, France. Plus has a little get away on the Isle of Corsica which is off the coast of France and Italy. He was here for a visit in September. Looks great but the time sure flew by while he was home. Keith, wishing you health happiness and a very happy birthday on October 5, 2009. Love always, Mom and Dad P.S.S. Dear Helen, would you consider trading your tree frogs and mouse for geckos?

P.S.S.S. Class of Meriden High School 1954. don't forget our very special day.

55th reunion on Saturday, October 24, 2009.

bers: Liz Landow, Iris Papale, Sandy/TJ Pajor, Caryl Ryan as well as Mary Ann Simmons vendor of baked goods.

Check out www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for detailed information. There is a link to Wallingford Garden Club.

Lending a hand...

Fall Dress Up at the Wallingford Emergency Shelter Wallingford Garden Club member Carole Golitko and granddaughter Cally Chvisuk had their annual plantings at the Wallingford Emergency Shelter this spring. The flowers grew and now mulch was applied to the beautify the garden bed. The mulch was donated by Eric Setreus. Cally and her grandmother have many other conservation and environmental projects, but the Shelter Garden is Cally’s special project.

Carole is the Conservation/Youth Chair of the Wallingford Garden Club.

The Wallingford Garden Club is a member of the Federated Garden Clubs of CT and National Garden Clubs, Inc. Photo by Kira Chvisuk of Carole Golikto and Cally Chvisuk mulching the garden at the Shelter.

Political Advertisement

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Page 6 October 2009

MAYOR'S CORNER WALLINGFORD Dear Friends: September and October are harvest months. Even though the cool autumn weather heralds the winter to come, we enjoy the fruits and vegetables that make us feel good to admire and eat. The cornucopia overflows with blessings, apples and berries.

This raises the inevitable question, how did Fruit of the Loom arrive at using an apple, grapes and gooseberries as its logo? Just prior to 1871, it is said that the daughter of a shopkeeper named Rufas Skeel was an artist. She painted still lifes. While working in her father's shop, she discovered really fine muslin fabric from the Knight Textile mill. The fabric was wonderful, easy to cut and sew, but was not selling. She painted several pictures of an apple and pasted them on the plain white fabric. The Knight muslin became very popular, adorned by paintings of apples, grapes, pears and cherries. Up until then, fabric in general was pretty plain.

Robert Knight noticed that one shop was selling more of the new cloth than any other shop and decided to personally investigate. He found that Miss Skeel's artwork was making the difference. Soon, as of 1871, he saw to it that her artwork was copied and printed as a label on all the cloth from the Knight mill. The combination of an apple, grapes and gooseberries on the label continues today. What a harvest!

Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor

MAYOR'S CORNER MERIDEN Fall has arrived and the frost is on the pumpkin. In Meriden, we have lots of fairs and fall events/activities scheduled. Please take the time to take part in these fun, festive activities. " Weather permitting the castle access road will be open from 7:00-8:30PM on Wednesday, October 7th. The 2009 Autumn Fest will take place at Hubbard Park on Saturday, October 24th from 1:00-4:00PM. This free event features hayrides, kids' entertainment, arts & crafts, amusements, a pie-eating contest, seasonal refreshments, and lots of fall foliage!

Meriden homes are invited to enter the 10th Annual Halloween House Decorating Contest. Phone entries will be accepted at the Parks & Recreation office (630-4259) from October 2nd-23rd. Judging will take place on October 24th. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: "Most Creative," "Scariest Entry," "Best Autumn Theme," & "Best Overall."

Want to get an early start to candy collection this year? Then come to "Halloween at City Hall"! Departments will be distributing candy to costumed trick-or-treaters ages 12 & under from 3:00-5:00PM on Friday, October 3oth. Make sure to begin at the Meriden Public Library (105 Miller Street) to get a special bag for candy collection!

Also, there are many worthwhile volunteer opportunities available to help others and socialize with friends. The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center is looking for volunteers to help with clerical work for doing postcards, newsletters, membership mailings, etc. Volunteers are needed to help protect the beauty of the Linear Trail by helping to keep the trail clean from litter. Anyone wishing to help can fill out a volunteer form at http://www.meridenlineartrail.org Literacy Volunteers is looking for people who want to become tutors for English and non-English speaking adults in our community. Tutors work one-on-one and in small groups, focusing on reading, writing, and speaking skills with their students. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, call Lara Chiaverini at 235-1714 or go to our website, www.lvagnh.org to fill out an online application.

The Annual Fall Mayor's Clean up day is scheduled for Saturday October 24. 10AM-12PM. Join Meriden residents, community organizations, and businesses for some fall cleaning in Meriden! Meet at City Hall at 10am for a clean-up "pep rally" and sign-in to get your t-shirt! (Available on a first-come, first-serve basis by pre-registration) pick up clean-up supplies, (bags and disposable gloves) pick up safety tips and instructions for your clean-up crew. After the clean-up, join us for grilled hot dogs (served by Mayor Mike), refreshments and entertainment at 12:30pm at Hubbard Park. PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 call 639-6595 or email jfordiani@ci.meriden.ct.us to pre-register your clean-up team and location.

So put on a sweater or sweatshirt, enjoy the fall weather and take advantage of some of these exciting activities and opportunities occurring in your city. I wish everyone a safe and Happy Halloween!

Mike Rohde - Mayor of Meriden

All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast The Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department will have it's Annual All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, November 1, 2009 from 8am-12pm.

This will take place at: The Yalesville Volunteer Fire House 143 Hope Hill Road Yalesville, Ct. $5.00 - Adults $3.00 Seniors & Kids

Applefest Fair St. John the Evangelist Church 360 Church Street, Yalesville, CT Dates: Friday Oct 30 1PM to 3PM Saturday Oct 31 9AM to 3PM CRAFTS -BAKE SALE-TAG SALE-BOOK SALE Cafe: Breakfast & Lunch

Fall Hayride with Temple B'Nai Abraham Have fun and enjoy a hayride and treats with Temple B'nai Abraham's Auxiliary club on Sunday October 18th at 1:00 p.m. at Norton's Fruit Farm, 450 Academy Road in Chesire. The cost is only $6.50 per person. Fee includes a half hour hayride, pick your own apples, donut holes and apple cider. Please call Susan Massicott at (203) 630-1947 or the temple office at (203) 235-2581 by October 11th to save your spot.

What you need to know...

COMING TOGETHER FOR A GREAT YEAR Dr. Salvatore Menzo spoke to the staff of the Wallingford Family YMCA's Before and After School Program at their September meeting. Dr. Menzo discussed his interesting background and exciting plans for the future of Wallingford Public Schools. The YMCA has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with the Wallingford Public School System and looks forward to being a part of this new vision. We at the the Wallingford Family YMCA want to welcome Dr. Menzo and wish him the best of luck.

Christmas Fair

Gallery 53- Arts and Crafts Assoc. of Meriden Gallery 53 has opened its doors to a broader dimension of the Arts and Culture. We have encouraged and invited a variety of interesting and talented people to share their particular skills with us.

An appreciative audience of over a hundred enjoyed Nancy Boyton's poetry reading and her husband Dick Boyton's first paintings. There is now a new feature, (member), artists whose work is on public display exhibited free and for sale as a means to support artists.

Our workshop and classes have been extended to include hours for working people and weekend hours for children also. Sundays from 1-3pm has been one of our newer openings and this schedule has been well received.

Visit our Gallery 53, join as members, take our many classes or become a volunteer in this place of exciting activities and inspiration. Call Director Rita Sarris at 203-235-5347 for information.

Submitted by Rose Cignatta To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our November "Local Holiday Shopping Guide" issue is October 27th.

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Colonial Thymes Christmas Fair Saturday, November 7, 2009 Center Congregational Church, located at the corner of Broad and East Main Streets, Meriden, (park in the back and come in the side door), cordially invites you to attend our annual Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 7th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Come to a REAL New England Church Fair! Only a small number of churches still have fairs that are member driven. So this holiday season, come in and shop with us. We've been busy all summer and fall making crafts, baking and preparing our homemade items! Our baked goods are all homemade and you will smell our "made on the premises" apple pies as you walk through our doors. Have a sample, or take home a whole pie for your freezer, just heat and serve on your special holiday. Your company will think you worked in the kitchen all day. Our kitchen will be open all day, serving soup, sandwiches, and mouthwatering deserts, all made fresh, just for you. Yes, fresh from our congregation direct to you!

Take the "Cookie Walk" and gather up your favorite cookies to fill your freezer and make the holidays deliciously easy. Because we have NO Vendors, it doesn't get any fresher than this. The baked goods table will be waiting for you.

Holiday crafts will be everywhere. We have something for everyone, our giant specialty theme baskets make wonderful gifts to give or receive. We have created beautiful hand made crafts to decorate your home or to give as gifts. We also have a Tea Cup Auction, and a Tag Sale which includes baby clothes. There will be activities to occupy the children, and our used book sale is always an event. Proceeds from the Fair will be used to help maintain our historic church building and contribute to activities for our youth.

Come join us for this fun day.

Page 7 October 2009

Inequity for All

Fall Session

Well we finally have a budget, but is it based on "all men are created equal"? You decide. Senate Bill 2051 allocates per capita funding for public health based on your zip code. That's right, your zip code. For example, if you live in Cheshire, your health department will receive $1.85/per person to support programs. If you live in Meriden your health department will receive $1.18 per person; while Wallingford, Durham, Southington, Middletown and 12 other full time health departments, will receive zero (0) per person. In total 44 communities representing 717,954 residents will receive zero dollars to support local public health prevention activities such as flu clinics and ensuring that restaurants, daycares, public pools, nail salons are inspected and safe.

Another 16 full time health departments (including Meriden) will receive less money than an adjoining town served by a district (like Cheshire) to provide the same service. I applaud Senator Fasano, Rep. Candelora and Rep. Mushinsky for recognizing the implications of a "yes" vote (voting in favor of discriminatory funding) as they voted "no".

I'm equally at a loss to understand why any Senator or Representative who represents a municipal health department (like Meriden, Wallingford, Durham and Southington) would support such unequal funding ( Senator Gaffey, Rep. Donavan, Rep Altobello, and Rep. Abercrombie, Rep. Estay all voted "yes" to unequal funding). Public health should be funded equally; 717,954 CT residents should not receive less (or zero) funding for public health simply because of zip code.

This unequal funding is a foreshadowing of things to come, unless YOU voice your concern. The next legislative session is only months away. Surely the budget will again be an issue. The statute that defines local health should not be arbitrarily defined based on population within a zip code. We are facing difficult financial times; local health is an important partner in protecting and preserving the public's health. Funding all local health depts. (fulltime, districts and part time) at the same rate, $1.18 would yield more of a savings to the State general fund as compared to the unequal funding structure recently approved.

The cry for "health care for all" is a valiant call. Public health prevention programs cost less than medical care.

Remember the nursery rhyme "An once of prevention is worth a pound of cure"? What part of that did the legislatures who voted in favor of this budget not understand?

The Wallingford Family YMCA will be holding registration for it's upcoming Fall Session beginning on Oct.12 for Facility Members and Oct. 19 for Community Participants. The YMCA has the youth programs your active child is looking for. Preschool (ages 3-5): Munchkin Triple Play, Sport Skills, Munchkin Soccer, Munchkin Basketball, Sport & Splash Youth (ages 5-10): Basketball, Soccer, Racquetball, Baseball, Wallyball The weather is quickly getting colder. Why not have your child stay warm at the Y? Register at the YMCA, 81 S. Elm St., Wallingford, or call 269-4497.

See you at the Y!

Happy 9th Anniversary!

Eloise Hazelwood, RS, MPH - Director of Health, Town of Wallingford

Meriden Health Department - Keeping You Healthy In October Total Cholesterol Screenings will be held at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street, on October 6 from 9:30-11:30am and October 15 from 1:30-3:30pm. Screenings are free for Meriden residents over the age of 18. Call the clinic office at 630-4234 to make an appointment.

Meriden Chamber of Commerce Health and Wellness Expo will be held on Friday, October 9, from 10:30am2:30pm at the Westfield Meriden Shopping Mall. A panel presentation on seasonal and H1N1 Flu will be held from 9:45- 10:30am. Over 35 exhibitors will be available sharing health and wellness information: educational seminars and a cooking demo will be offered. The Meriden Health Department will be giving seasonal flu shots for $25.00 (cash only, no appointment needed). Call the Chamber at 235-7901 for more information on the Expo.

"We Are What We Eat - and Drink!" will be presented on October 19 from 6-7pm at the Meriden Public Library, 105 Miller Street. Part of the Meriden Health Department's Monday Night Refresher series, we'll review the basics of nutrition and the way we eat with a different point of view. Free fast food and daily nutrition guides to all who attend, healthy snacks will be served. Please contact the Community Health Education office at 630-4238 to RSVP. AIDS Candlelight Vigil The Meriden Health Department, Hispanos Unidos and the Community Health Center invite you to their annual AIDS candlelight vigil on October 14, 2009. The event will begin at 5:30 at the steps of City Hall in Meriden (142 East Main Street) with a proclamation and proceed to Center Congregational Church (474 Broad Street). The program will conclude at 8pm. Call 630-4176 or 630-4288 for more information. Confidential HIV testing and education is available at the Health Department - call 630-4176 to make an appointment.

Join us for Coffee and Conversation on Monday, October 26, 2009 from 1:00-2:30pm at the Meriden Senior Center.

Juliet Kapsis and Craig Murphy, aka "The Health Motivators", will present "A Prescription for Personal Healing Tapping Into Your Body's Natural Pharmacy". The body/mind connection, energy healing, visualization, breathing techniques, meditation and the use of "primary foods" will be discussed. Coffee and refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public. Coffee and Conversation programs are jointly sponsored by the Center for Successful Aging and MidState's LaPlanche Clinic. They are held once a month at the Senior Center. Call 630-4222 for more information.

Seasonal Flu Shots are available at the Meriden Health Department. The cost is $25.00, cash only. Medicare Part B is accepted. Any persons allergic to eggs or any part of the flu vaccine is not eligible for the shot. Please call the Clinic office at 630-4234 to schedule an appointment. Please note - this vaccine is for seasonal flu and not 2009 H1N1 influenza.

Time to quit smoking! The Meriden Health Department will be starting a smoking cessation class on Tuesday, October 20. The class will be held for 6 weeks, from 5-6:30pm at the Health Department, 165 Miller Street. Cost of the program is $25.00. Please call Debbie at 630-4104 for more information.

The Red Cross and Me

By Jo-Ann Buccetti On August 21st, the American Red Cross was at my work place, for a blood drive. I always wanted to donate my blood, but was afraid to. I thought I would pass out, or the needle would hurt, neither was true. My nurse on staff, and the Red Cross were so kind and compassionate to me, making sure I felt comfortable. After it was done, I felt so good about doing something special. Maybe I will be saving some one's life. A life that will see sunsets. If you felt the same like me, don't be afraid there isn't anything to it. You'll be glad that you did.

The foliage has been losing its freshness through the month of August, and here and there a yellow leaf shows itself like the first gray hair amidst the locks of a beauty who has seen one season too many. ~Oliver Wendell Holmes Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ~Albert Camus

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Page 8 October 2009

Nature as a Mirror

By Dorothy Gonick

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Jack-in-the-Pulpit Strange woodland plant Like a green striped umbrella Jack-in-the-Pulpit.

A lovely fall day beckoned me to wander through the nearby woodland with my grandkids. Colorful leaves floated gracefully to settle at our feet. The crisp air held the scent of profusely blooming goldenrod and filled our nostrils. Wandering further into the cool shady woods we spotted a cluster of the shiny red seed-bearing berries of a withered Jack-in-the-Pulpit plant.

Nature often uses bright red to warn of danger, so we looked at, but did not pick, the cluster. We talked of the plant's springtime glory, and of how unusual it was. We remembered the 'pulpit' as a striped green and brown spathe that curved gracefully above its club-like spadix that is called 'Jack'. The flowers of this plant were tiny and clustered at the base of the spadix; these had matured into the pulpy red cluster before us.

The Jack-in-the-pulpit has been called 'Indian Turnip' because the root (corm) resembles a turnip that the Native Americans gathered and dried or boiled them to eat as a vegetable. The plant is poisonous if eaten raw in its fresh state. Cooking eliminates the unpleasant properties of the peppery, burning sensation caused by the calcium oxalate crystals contained in the plant. Native Americans found it useful medicinally for various ailments of eyes, pain and infections. One story tells of a tribe that placed some chopped fresh root into meat and left it for their enemy to find-a potent silent weapon.

My grandkids giggled at this funny preacher with the two leaves rising from the same corm, causing us to wonder if they are the 'preacher's acolytes'. They wondered what he could possible be preaching about.

The plant's root is a toxic corm; yet grows into a sleek, regal-looking plant. Perhaps its message is that beauty can arise from a tarnished background, that we too can rise above unpleasant circumstances and become an upright, forgiven beauty, ready to greet the world with a smile.

YMCA's Announces the Winners of the 12th Annual Triple Challenge Adventure Race On September 19th the Meriden YMCA held the 12th Annual Meriden YMCA Triple Challenge Adventure Race at the Meriden YMCA Mountain Mist Outdoor Center. A great time was had by all competing in the running, bike riding, and the crazy mystery event running across the pool on a ladder of tubes! There were a few splashes along the way. The first place team was Kyle Kennedy and Justin Miller, following close behind in second was Mo Suzio and Tracy Ivers, with Jean Gilligan and Fran Carver winning third place honors. Thank you to all of our sponsors, vendors, and participants including: Naugatuck Valley Bank, Dairy Queen, High Hill Orchard, Stop & Shop of Meriden, Shop Rite of Meriden, Hilzinger Farms, Drazen Orchard, Mountain Ridge Resort, Mountain Spring Water, Meriden PBA, Paul's Market, Aresco's Market, Hunter's Ambulance, Dick's Sporting Goods, Tomassetti Distributors, and Zorba's Restaurant. For more information about the Meriden YMCA call (203) 235-6386 or visit our web site at www.meridenymca.org.

To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com.

Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our November "Local Holiday Shopping Guide" issue is October 27th.

Page 9 October 2009

Wallingford's Attic: The Wallingford Historical Society, "Preserving the Past for the Future"

by Barbara Sherburne barndt49@yahoo.com

Civitan Club of Meriden/Wallingford to hold dance The club will hold a Halloween Dance to benefit the physically/mentally challenged youth and adults in the area. The dance will be held on Saturday, October 24th at St. Joseph's Church Rosary Hall, Goodwill Ave. Meriden.

There will be a raffle, and prize for best outfit. BYOB. Social from 7-8 P.M., with dancing from 8-12 A.M. $10.00 per person. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Information or tickets may be obtained by calling Elain Cariati Drauss at 203-630-9805.

In Memory of...

Our challenge this month from Andy, the publisher of this newspaper, was to write about what we most loved about our towns, and the first thought that popped into my mind was the Wallingford Historical Society, and I don't think we have ever written about this organization in this paper before, so I am featuring it now.

"To collect and preserve the history, art, literature of Wallingford, and to provide for the care, preservation and exhibition of the same." This was the purpose of the Wallingford Historical Society as stated in November 1916. The Historical Society acquired the Samuel Parsons House, built in 1759, from Fanny Ives Schember, and was open to the public on August 23rd, 1920. This was shortly before the 250th anniversary celebration of Wallingford's incorporation.

(Wallingford was established on October 10, 1667, but was not incorporated until May 12, 1670.) About 38 planters and freemen settled here, six-acre lots were set out, and by 1675, 40 houses had been built up and down our present Main Street.

Interestingly, to me, Wallingford was the 23rd town in Connecticut to form a historical society.

I met with Ray Chappell, who is the current president of the Society, and he was also president from 1979 to 1983, and I learned quite a bit from him. He is a great storyteller, by the way. He was born in northern Vermont and came to Wallingford in 1960 after four years in the Air Force. It was the approach of the bicentennial of our nation and wanting to be involved that got Ray and his wife Pat interested in joining the Society, which they did in 1975. They wanted to be part of the history of Wallingford, and have been very active in supporting the Society, which has included making costumes for events such as the bicentennial, and also preparing dinners and planning for Colonial encampments and Civil War enactments, to name a few.

As I said, Ray is a very good storyteller, and one of the events that happens over at the Historical Society is a tour for third-graders from all over town in the spring. He delights and fascinates them with tidbits from our history, showing them a copy of the Declaration of Independence in the North Front Room and enlightening them to the fact that we are one of only 56 towns in the United States that was home to one of the signers of the Declaration, and that is, of course, Lyman Hall.

He says the children's eyes get very wide when he tells them about early life in that Samuel Parsons House, as they sit in the bedroom with a rope spring bed, a dollhouse, toys, a school desk, and a chamber pot. (He says the story works better if it is particularly cloudy outside.) But imagine what it was like with no TV, no electricity, no heat, and no toilet!

(I am paraphrasing this from my memory.) The children were sent to bed as soon as it got dark, well, except when it was dark at 4:30. No sense wasting candles on the young ones. And even though there is a fireplace in that room (one of six), they would not waste wood on them. No, you would be huddled together in one bed, especially in the winter, with your clothes on and a cap on your head. The cap was not just to keep your head warm. Your mom didn't get to do laundry very often, and no baths in the winter, so the cap was also to keep your hair from dirtying up the bed linen.

And what happens if after you get into bed you realize you need to go to the bathroom? Oh, boy. You have to make your way down the stairs with no lights, find your coat and some boots, and then make your way out to the outhouse, which was situated quite a distance, generally 75 to 100 feet, from the house. There were two reasons for this. You certainly wouldn't want to contaminate the well water, oh, and then there was the odor. And, boys and girls, they didn't have toilet paper back then. Huh? No. You would need to use leaves, grass or corn husks. Oh, my goodness. And then you would make your way back to the house and up the stairs, and your brothers and sisters would not be too happy with you joining them again in the bed because you were so cold. If the weather was too harsh, they did of course have access to a chamber pot, and guess whose job it was to carefully take it down the stairs and all the way out to the outhouse the next morning? That's right, you kids had to take care of your own chamber pot. Ray then turns to the teacher and parents who are there, and asks them if they have trouble getting their children to take out the trash. Yes, of course.

And then he turns to the kids and asks, "Which would you rather take out, the trash or the chamber pot?" "The trash!!!" shouted in unison.

It really does make you think about how difficult times must have been. He explained how he tells the school children that they really couldn't risk taking baths in the winter because they could easily catch a cold, and then possibly pneumonia, and, well, that could lead to death. There was no bathroom anyway, so most of the bathing was done in the warmer months when they were at a lake or a stream. It's kind of hard to imagine that. Ray was more graphic with me than I will be here, but there was a good reason for layers of clothing. I'll leave it at that.

I must give credit where it is due, and it was Ray who first coined the phrase "Wallingford's Attic," and such an apt name it is!

I met with Robert Beaumont a little more than a week after I had visited with Ray. Bob is a lifelong Wallingford resident, has been with the Society for 20-plus years, and has served as treasurer, president (1992-2004), and vice president, which is a position he holds today. He told me that 17 people comprise the officers and board of directors. There are four public meetings a year and business meetings as needed in addition to those. There are approximately 20 people who volunteer at the Samuel Parsons House on Sunday afternoons. Bob's wife, Noma, and Ray's wife, Pat, are at the Society almost every Tuesday morning working on inventory, and this has been and continues to be a somewhat daunting task. It wasn't until the late 1970s that the Society began to get serious about inventorying items. They use an accession sheet for every item, writing down all the details. Bob pointed to a number of pairs of socks on the table we were sitting at in the Keeping Room, and he said that they would be measured, the colors would be noted, the material, where they were manufactured who donated them, the date of donation, and so on, and those records are stored in their library.

Pat and Bob also volunteer their time by giving talks at local schools about the history of schools here over the last 250 years or more.. A male schoolteacher in the early 1700s had the second most respected position in town, with the minister being in the number one spot. As an example of their talks, he mentioned the preparations for visits from George Washington, once in 1775 on the way to Boston, when he stopped to pick up some gunpowder at the Atwater store, and once in 1789 while he was on an inaugural tour of the 13 original states.

If you have never visited the Samuel Parsons House, you really should. 180 South Main Street is just two blocks from the center of town. One of the unusual things about the architecture is that for that period it was not common in this area to have two end chimneys and six corner fireplaces, Continued on Page 10

Louise Meyerjack who passed last October. Louise, you will always be in our hearts. It’s been a year since you passed but not a day has gone by where we have not thought of you. Love, The Reynolds Family.

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Page 10 October 2009

Youth is like spring, an over praised season more remarkable for biting winds than genial breezes. Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits. ~Samuel Butler

Wallingford’s Attic Continued from Page 9

Celebrations of Life and Home Look who’s “18” Happy Birthday Jeannie 10-19-09 Love, Mom and Dad, Mark and Booey

My Hometown

four on the first floor and two on the second. This house is a Dutch colonial, and 1759 is early for this style with a gambrel roof and end chimneys. There is a house on Pond Hill Road that is one of the oldest brick houses in Connecticut, built in 1756, and it has end chimneys. So there are a few still in Wallingford with those chimneys.

I'm just going to give a little description of some of what is housed at the Parsons house. The Keeping Room, or kitchen, has a large fireplace with antique ironware, pots and kettles, long-handled forks and spoons, a waffle iron, and a brass bed-warming pan from 1770. Nearby are mortars and pestles, candle molds, scales, a bootjack, soapstones used for heating the beds, an old charcoal iron (1852), and a gas-fired iron. Every room in the house is chockful of antiques, including military uniforms, a flintlock from the Revolutionary War, a rifle from the Civil War, an aircraft machine gun and rifle from WWI, helmets, grenades, canteens, firemen hats, display cases of silverware, pewter, Indian artifacts, and various items manufactured in Wallingford, such as drills, bits, and matches. (There was a match factory essentially across the street from the Parsons house, which was later bought by Diamond Match.) And there are children's toys, including an 1850 era dollhouse kitchen.

I had the very special privilege of going up to the attic with Bob. It is not open to the public. There are some very large items up there, including two penny-farthing bicycles, which were breath-taking, a large loom, chairs, and farm equipment. The Society really hopes to build an outbuilding, like a barn, to display all of the larger items which simply can't be displayed now. Since 1980 Bob estimates the Society has spent $150,000 or more on renovations such as HVAC, fences, roof repairs, and floorboard replacements. It helps that they have invested in very good blue chips over the years, the oldest stock dating back to 1933. Their source of income is supplemented by dues and donations, and over the last 10 years they have received some matching funds from the town itself.

When I first began doing research for this story, I could not believe there was nothing on the Internet about the Wallingford Historical Society other than an address. I had to go to the public library and comb through some articles and booklets from the Connecticut Room. I asked Bob about this, and he said that in the reasonably near future, they will have a presence on the Net. Bob and I also talked about computers and how the Society will be acquiring a computer and putting the inventory on that, as well as other information.

The Samuel Parsons House is open to the public on Sunday afternoons from 2 to 4:30 from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and special appointments can be made as well. In 1916 the annual dues were $1. Today the dues are $5 for an individual and $8 for a family or couple. Donations are always appreciated.

The annual meeting is taking place on Wednesday, October 21st, at the First Baptist Church, and is open to the public. Dinner is at 6:30, with a home-prepared meal, at a minimal charge, while the meeting begins at 8, which is in the church parlor. Reservations are needed for the dinner.. You may leave a message on the Society's answering machine at 203-294-1996.

If you have an interest in history or a love of antiques, visiting Wallingford's Attic will definitely bring you back to the days of Wallingford in 1759, and you might just want to join the Historical Society and start preparing for the 100th anniversary of the Society in just seven years, 2016! Let us all continue to preserve the past for the future so it will never be forgotten.

Kiwanis Club of Wallingford Receives Honors & Recognition The Kiwanis Club of Wallingford is pleased to announce the following awards and recognition from the New England District of Kiwanis and Kiwanis International: New England District of Kiwanis Governor's Award for Volunteerism; Distinguished President - Tim Gallogly, 2007-2008; Distinguished Secretary - Antoinette Walker, 2007-2008; Distinguished Club - 2007-2008; and the Public Relations Award.

Congratulations to our small but mighty club!

My favorite thing about my hometown is a place called Lyman Orchards in Middlefield Connecticut. Lyman is the 12th oldest family owned business in the United States and has had 8 generations run it since 1741. In 1972, Lyman decided to open its doors to the public with their year round market and pick your own program. You may have to work a little for it, but pick your own allows the average consumer to get quality fruit at about half the price you would pay per pound at your local food store.

Lyman also has other fun activities year round. Some help local charities. The sunflower maze, which just ended this past weekend, is just such an activity. A dollar from every ticket sale has been donated to the Connecticut Children's Medical Center for pediatric cancer. Other activities include the corn maze, horse drawn wagon rides, and pick your pumpkins for the fall.

Lyman also has an 18 hole golf course, farm tours, and even hosts weddings and corporate events. For these reasons, it is truly one of my favorite places to go to enjoy a day out in nature.

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Page 11 October 2009

Maggie's Corner When You Think of Home By: Maggie Griffin When you think of home, think of a place where there is love and so much laughter, home is a place we know people we can depend on and look after. It's a place where there is unconditional love and affection through all four seasons.

We all have the power to change and fix a problem that we are facing. There is no such thing as score cards in a family, stop the pacing. You'll see your home will be a better place for you and your family. Take a look around and see what is out there and you will find your heart keeps growing and your family is still near, it's true, just look at you.

Suddenly you'll find the dreams you had went in a new direction. Don't try to convince time to slow down, not even a little section. Remember time gives us another meaning of a new perfection. Look inside your mind and remember what you left behind you.

Suddenly you'll find that what was left is still in front of you, a Mother, Father, Brother, Sister, Daughter, Son and a Friend too, you'll see that Home is family.

Can you imagine what life would be like if there were no four seasons? Without the fall change in the leaves on trees will have no meaning. Can you imagine what life would be like if there is no leaves that are falling? We wouldn't have a snow flake or jump in a pile of raked leaves that are calling. No Sun to melt the snow, no rain to make flowers grow.

Summer will not be hot and the water may dry up, no place to swim or sail, walk and feel the wind. That's change, even nature has a home.

Make a wish come true, but realize that wishes come unspoken. Take a look at you and understand that wishes turn into a calling. That is why I say destiny is not written, it is in the palms of your hands, you can say it, write it, change it, it's your land. That's home - it's in your heart.

When I was a child I'd sing and dance for a reason, the Living Room was my stage in every change of season. Then I was a teen I took a chance and walked all the steps I made. I made my wishes then, but later they came true in a different way, a way that was meant to be. When I got married and was expecting my first child, I was given the greatest gift of all. Giving life is the greatest gifts of all; I gave birth to my daughter, then my son, asking God to help me raise them both proud and tall. That's home to me.

When I faced my cancer, God gave me a chance to see what more in life and what it is about, looking in my heart and seeing there is no doubt, I'm home with the ones I can't live without. I appreciated the snow, the rain, the sun and all the trees. I love it when I jump in a raked pile of leaves. That's home, there is no place I'd rather be.

I looked at the changes in my hands through all these years. I saw they held my Mother, my Father, held my children, wipe some tears. I also saw they built a heart I call my home today; I saw my hands helped another needing help in some way. Just look at your hands, it is plane to see; your hands do have a history. Looking back in time your hands have been with you, for many they helped one swim, ride a bike or drive home to make a curfew, those hands built your home.

Many times we need to understand sometimes we cannot let things be. Learn to teach what life gives us, simple gifts that are for free. Rake those leaves in piles and then jump right and feel free. Remember all those rain drops are for flowers so they can grow. When the snowflakes fall, go ahead and make those snowmen, name them Larry, Curly and Moe! That's home, doing the favorite things with the ones you love.

When I think of home I think of my greatest treasure, that is, treasure in my heart that keeps my love growing forever. Watching my children grow and taking their steps in life I hear and see, what they say and do and how much it means to me. Then I know I taught them the meaning of home with love and dignity. All the pets I have, and had at one time, they are also my family and their love does not cost a dime. Treat your pets' kind; remember they treat us with love and affection, unconditionally, during their life's time.

If you find yourself under a bridge all alone, cut it out and get with it. Look around, you'll see an answer will come to be soon enough when you least expect it. Just wait a little while and learn time and respect it. Everything has a meaning, but sometimes we don't understand it, wishing for a chance to go back into time in our lives so we can replan it. Don't wish to change things that were meant to be.

Our fate cannot be predicted nor conceived time or place, don't try to contradict it, fate is something that needs to go at its own pace. But know there is a place in our lives we are all called to do. It is not what we do to earn a living; it is what we do for the living. Just think what our hearts can do.

If you keep the faith you will understand fate is a part of changes. Here on earth or in Heaven our love ones are here in all life's stages. They live in our hearts that is their home too. Just keep in mind and know no matter what or where you are, our love ones are home and still with us and not far; that is home, you're a place your hands you built with your loving trust.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB ANNOUNCES CLOTHING DRIVE FOR MASTER'S MANNA The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club will be collecting winter clothing, including coats, hats, and mittens and gloves, for Master's Manna, at the Wallingford Public Library on Saturday, October 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Coats, hats, mittens, and gloves are needed in both genders and all sizes, from infant to adult. Items may be new, or, if used, in good and clean condition. Master's Manna is also in need of new packages of underwear in both genders and all sizes. They may be donated that day.

For more information, please contact Kathryn Speeg at 203-284-5826.

Any Wallingford woman age 18 or older who is interested in learning more about Wallingford Juniors may call Jaime Bowen at 294-0017. The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. www.cjw.org. WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and promotes educational, philanthropic community service work, and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction. WJWC projects include the annual Townwide Spelling Bee; the Children's Game Area at Celebrate Wallingford; co-sponsoring Candidate's Forum with the League of Women Voters; adopting a local family during the holidays; and providing rehearsal snacks for the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra. In addition, WJWC currently participates in the CJW state project, Covenant to Care for Children, Inc., which provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused or at-risk.

Family Nights at the Y If you are looking for a cheap and easy way to spend quality time with the family, then look no further than the Wallingford Family YMCA. Friday nights are family nights at the Y, with program like Flick-n-Float, and Family Fun Fridays. Or if the kids just want to hang out with their friends then there is always Kids Night Out. Upcoming event dates are: Flick-n-Float: Swim and watch a movie with the whole family November 6 & December 18, 7:00pm Free for Y members, $5 for Community Participants Family Fun Fridays: Gym games, special activities, open swim October 16, November 20, December 11, 6:30-8:30pm Free for Y members, $5 for Community Participants Kids Night Out: Kids K-5 grade hang out at the Y, eat pizza, play in the gym, swim in the pool, and have tons of fun October 9, November 13, December 4, 6:30-9:30pm $15 for Y members, $25 for Community Participants Mark you calendars today so you don't miss out on all the fun you can have at the Wallingford Family YMCA. For more information, call 269-4497.

November is our Thanksgiving issue. What are you thankful for? Share something special by sending in a story, photo or poem by October 27th. Email to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Read the entire paper at www.peoplespressnews.com. If we can help in any way please call 203-235-9333.

Sheehan Students Earn AP Scholar Award Twenty-five students at Sheehan High School earned the designation of AP Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program Exams. Graduates Lisa Cheung, Stephen Ciccone, Samantha Nardi, Alexander Thompson, along with seniors Alexina DelVecchio, Michael Kadow and Kaitlyn Romania qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. Graduates Kaela Bjornberg, Stephanie DuBois, along with seniors Brian Bates, Matthew Gamache, Cody Grant, Elizabeth Kadow, Farah Salam and Alexander Scelzo qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Ten students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Examinations with grades of 3 or higher. These students are graduates Robert Belcourt, Nicole Richetelli, Corey Williams, seniors Leann Bickford, Philip Gaetano, Jessica Glynn, Kirsten Knecht, Tori Sheldon and juniors Alicia Gansley and John Somers.

For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together. For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad. ~Edwin Way Teale

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Page 12 October 2009

NEWS FROM WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY: A NEW FACE AT THE CIRCULATION DESK - The library has installed a new self-checkout machine at the circulation desk. Adults and children can check out books and other materials themselves without having to wait in line at the checkout counter. The self-checkout system will scan patrons' library cards and the barcode of books and media, with onscreen directions in simple terms (in the language of your choice), with an accompanying instructional video.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL TIME - Don't forget to renew your library membership this fall. For only $5.00 per year you can be a member of the library and have the library's monthly newsletter, Words, delivered to your home.

KEEP SOMEONE WARM THIS WINTER: COAT DRIVE - Check your closets for coats and hats you no longer need. On Saturday, October 17th, the Wallingford Junior Woman's Club will be accepting donations of clean, gentlyused coats and hats in all sizes to benefit Master's Manna. You may drop off your donations in the library's Collins Room between 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

HELP FOR JOB SEEKERS JOB NOW: Live Job Assistance - Wallingford Public Library announces an exciting new service for job seekers and career changers: JobNow. This unique online service gives job seekers on-demand access to trained career coaches and job resources. JobNow's free professional services are available on any of our public Internet computers; ask for more information at the Information Desk. Wallingford Library cardholders can also access JobNow from home by linking to http://main.wallingford.clc.jobnow.brainfuse.com. Job seekers should register for an account after using their Wallingford Library card to enter the site. JobNow is the first service of its kind to provide live career coaching from any computer with Internet access. Services available are live interview coaching, with interview tips and resources; a resume lab with sample templates, along with resume analysis within 24 hours by a JobNow expert; assistance with writing cover letters; and a career resource library that includes links to current job openings locally and nationally, as well as career and personality assessment instruments.

HOP ON THE CAREER EXPRESS - The Career Express is the Department of Labor's mobile one-stop career center, providing the latest workforce and job skills development services to individuals across the state. You will find the Career Express bus parked in the library's parking lot on Tuesday, October 13th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis to receive free help with online job searches, resume writing, interviewing techniques and more.

ON DISPLAY! - You may have noticed that there are several new book display units near the Information Desk. We are delighted that now we can create pleasing displays of material we hope you will enjoy browsing through and checking out. One of those displays is devoted to "Staff Picks". Here you will find books of all kinds that various staff members have enjoyed and recommend. Take a look next time you are looking for something to read and are feeling adventurous!

ADAPTIVE COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY - The Library now offers adaptive technology for our patrons with vision impairment. If you are interested in learning more, ask about the trackball mouse, large print keyboard, and iZoom screen magnifier/reader. They are available in the Adult Computer area. We also have an Optelec video magnifier for anyone wishing to manipulate the size of print while reading books, magazines, and newspapers. It is located by the Periodicals Area of the adult section.

CELL PHONE RECYCLING - Remember that you can bring in your old cell phones for recycling. Drop them in the box near the copier across from the Circulation Desk. The Library receives a percentage for each phone. Thanks!

JUST FAX IT! - In response to popular demand, we have installed a self-service public fax machine next to the photocopier by the Circulation Desk. It transmits faxes for $1.50 per page with a credit or debit card, but does not receive faxes. Librarians at the Information Desk can help you get started.

MORE PLAYAWAYS! - Wallingford Public Library was a recent winner in the Playaway Giveaway Contest. We submitted our entry, and were surprised and delighted to find out we were a winner. Playaway sent us 15 new releases which we added to our popular and expanding collection of these handydandy little MP3 audiobooks. Take a look at the large selection of titles. All you need is a set of headphones (you can get a pair for $1.00 at the Information Desk) a AA battery, and you're in business.

COMPUTER TUTORING SESSIONS Wednesdays Mornings @ 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday and Thursdays Afternoons @ 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Thursday Evenings @ 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Free one-on-one sessions for computer novices cover basic keyboarding and mouse skills, word processing, Internet searching, email, online job searching, etc. Call the library to sign up and specify your area of interest.

OCTOBER COMPUTER CLASS: POWERPOINT Tuesday, October 27 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Board Room Learn to make slideshow presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint 2007. You will create and modify a presentation as well as add graphics and automation. Seating is limited to 6 so please sign up early for this hands-on class.

POETRY WORKSHOPS Saturday, October 3 and 17 10:00 a.m. Board Room Writers and lovers of poetry and prose are welcome to share their writings and writing experiences at these workshops.

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns. ~George Eliot Bittersweet October. The mellow, messy, leaf-kicking, perfect pause between the opposing miseries of summer and winter. ~Carol Bishop Hipps

Stork Ticket

Congratulations to Heather and Adam Sarkin on the birth of Max! Max is already comfy cozy with his sister Sarah. Love, The Fam!

Celebrations of Life and Home

Happy Third Birthday Andrew. We hope your day is as special as you are.

55th Anniversary

Continued on Page 13

9 WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB CELEBRATED 55th ANNIVERSARY IN 2009 The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club celebrated 55 years of service in 2009 with several events, including a special 55th Anniversary Tea hosted

by WJWC and the Wallingford Public Library.

There was a brief presentation, and scrapbooks, past presidents' press books, and awards were on display. The WJWC silver tea service was used.

Several Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. board members, WJWC past presidents and members, and two WJWC charter members were in attendance.

The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) taxexempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. www.cjw.org. WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and promotes educational, philanthropic, community service work and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction.

WJWC projects include the annual Townwide Spelling Bee; the Children's Game Area at Celebrate Wallingford; co-sponsoring Candidate's Forum with the League of Women Voters; adopting a local family during the holidays; and providing rehearsal snacks for the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra. In addition, WJWC has participated in and donated to several state projects overseen by CJW, including the current state project, Covenant to Care for Children, Inc., which provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused or at-risk. Any Wallingford woman age 18 or older who is interested in learning more about Wallingford Juniors may call Jaime Bowen at 294-0017.

Page 13 October 2009

Continued from Page 12 WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY FREE MOVIE EVENTS CINEMA CLUB: HILARY AND JACKIE Tuesday, October 6 6:30 p.m. Community Room Rated R FRIDAY NIGHT FLICS: THE PROPOSAL Friday, October 16 6:30 p.m. Community Room Rated PG-13 MOVIE MATINEE: THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER Wednesday, October 28 2:00 p.m. Collins Room Not Rated HALLOWEEN MOVIE: THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT Friday, October 30 6:30 p.m. Community Room Rated R SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AT WALLINGORD PUBLIC LIBRARY THREE CONNECTICUT MONEY SCHOOL WORKSHOPS: BUDGETING Monday, October 5: Maximizing the Budget Process Wednesday, October 7: Handling Real Life Budgeting Problems Friday, October 9: Personalizing the Process 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Collins Room The Connecticut Money School is a project of the Connecticut Association for Human Services and the Agency on Aging. Presenter Martin R. Lambert, CFP, CPA will conduct the workshops. He has been practicing accounting and personal financial planning since 1976. All are welcome to any and all of these free informational programs.

COMPLETING THE JOURNEY: THE ART OF HOSPICE CARE Tuesday, October 6 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Collins Meeting Room You are cordially invited to a reception to celebrate the opening of this powerful multi-media exhibit depicting the use of arts in hospice care. Hospice Expressive Art Specialists assisted patients in creating these paintings, drawings, photography, poetry, shadow boxes, and more. Feed body, mind and spirit with conversation, refreshments and especially art! All are welcome.

AUTHOR NIGHT AT THE LIBRARY: CONNECTICUT AUTHOR PAMELA GLASNER PRESENTS FINDING EMMAUS Thursday, October 8 6: 30 p.m. Community Room Ms. Glasner's new novel Finding Emmaus, is a complex, dark, historic fantasy about human frailties and courage and is the first in the Lodestarre series. All are welcome to enjoy the author read an excerpt from her novel and share her writing experiences. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase at the conclusion of the program. This event is free and open to the public however seating is limited. Please contact the library to reserve a seat.

PUTTING YOUR GARDEN TO BED Wednesday, October 14 6:30 p.m. Community Room Information for backyard gardeners: how to prepare the soil for next year's planting season; cleaning up your garden; counteracting blight; and more. Join Advanced Master Gardener Ellie Tessmer for this free and informative program.

THURSDAY NIGHT BOOK CLUB: THE TELL-TALE AND OTHER STORIES HEART BY EDGAR ALLAN POE October 15 7:00 p.m. Collins Room Please join us for an informal discussion of this classic tale of horror and madness. Books have been made available by the Connecticut Humanities Council and are available for borrowing from the Information Desk. All are welcome.

DESSERT WITH A DOC: A TRIP THROUGH THE GI TRACT Monday, October 19 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Community Room Join Dr. Thomas Jung for a program on the signs, symptoms, and treatment of everything from acid reflux to diverticulitis and much more. Learn how dietary and lifestyle changes can effectively reduce your symptoms. Bring your questions. Everyone is welcome to this free program. Refreshments will be served. Advance registration is appreciated (so we don't run out of dessert). Please call the Library or register online at wallingford.lioninc.org.

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING FEATURING: EDGAR ALLAN POE: HIS WRITING LIFE Thursday, October 22 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Community Room In the person of Poe himself, actor Lou Harmon, from the Trail of Terror, will provide an intimate glimpse into the life of the writer whom many consider to be the founder of the horror and suspense genres. A brief meeting precedes the 7:00 p.m. program. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome to attend this free program co-sponsored by the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts and made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts.

BOOK DISCUSSIONS: THE RANGE OF REALISM EXPLORED IN 19TH AND 20TH CENTURY NOVELS Wednesday, November 4 3:30 p.m. Collins Room Join us for the first discussion and any or all of the continuing discussions as we explore the range of realism in the novels Oliver Twist (November 4th), A Prayer for Owen Meany (December 9th), The House of Mirth (January 13th), and Frankenstein (February 10th). This program is co-sponsored by the Connecticut Humanities Council. Independent Discussion Leader Marsha Bansavage will facilitate the discussions. Pick up copies of the books from the library's Information Desk. All are welcome.

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY: TEEN ZONE MOTHER-DAUGHTER BOOK CLUB: Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick Wednesday, October 7 7:30 p.m. Board Room All Teens in grades 6 - 12 are invited to bring their mother or other adult female friend to read and discuss a book with the Mother-Daughter Book Club. Still going strong after 20 years, this Wallingford group is the oldest of its kind in the state. Refreshments are served.

Wii TOURNAMENT: SUPER SMASH BROTHERS BRAWL Wednesday, October 28 6:00 p.m. Community Room Think you have what it takes to dominate the opposition? Can your Link beat her Peach or his Bowser? All Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to come and find out! Registration is required. Sign up in person, by phone, or online.

TEEN NUTMEG BOOK CLUB Wednesday, October 21 7:00 p.m. Collins Room The Wallingford Library Teen Nutmeg Book Club is looking for a few good members. This very informal club is a great way to enjoy awesome books and meet new friends. All Teens in grades 6-12 are welcome to attend. The October selection is Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life by Wendy Mass. Looking forward to seeing you at the meeting! Please register and pick up your book at the Information Desk.

VAMPIRE FOLK BELIEF IN HISTORIC NEW ENGLAND Wednesday, November 4 7:00 p.m. Community Room The Wallingford Public Library welcomes you to join us for a stimulating and spine-tingling evening as Connecticut State Archaeologist Dr. Nicholas Bellantoni brings back the dead in a very special program about real vampire beliefs in New England. Learn about exhuming corpses and arranging the bones in strange ways, and other forensic discoveries and practices. Revisit the "undead" superstitions held by the early colonists and neighboring states. All are welcome to this exciting, free, informative event!

Ravin' About Ravens Bird loving families are invited to join us for a fascinating look at one of nature's most brilliant birds on Friday, October 16th at 7:00 p.m. in the Wallingford Public Library's Children's Library.

Kasha Breau, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator with the Audubon Society, will share her knowledge and tell about her experiences with these majestic birds.

This is a free program. You may register for this program through the calendar at www.wallingford.lioninc.org Or by calling the Children's Library at 284-6436 Me Gustan los Libros Maria Ruiz, a parent educator from Bebes Activos, will offer bilingual storytimes at the Wallingford Public Library at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays, October 5th and 19th.

Mrs. Ruiz will share stories, songs and more, in Spanish and English, with 3-8 year-olds and their grown-ups.

This free drop-in program is funded through a grant from the Wallingford Foundation of the Rotary Club in cooperation with WECARE and the Wallingford Public Library.

The deadline for the next issue of The People’s Press is October 27th!

November is our Thanksgiving issue. What are you thankful for? Share something special by sending in a story, photo or poem by October 27th.

Email to andy@peoplespressnews.com. Read the entire paper at www.peoplespressnews.com. If we can help in any way please call 203-235-9333.

Congratulations

Wallingford resident Joseph Heitman has been invited through audition to dance with New England Ballet Company for its 18th season. New England Ballet Company is a not for profit organization with a mission to bring the arts to children and to bring children to the arts. Every year, its dancers entertain children and adults alike with its winter holiday performances of the holiday favorite, Nutcracker at the Parsons Center. Open auditions for Nutcracker will be held on Saturday, September 26th at New England Ballet School, 200 Boston Post Road, Orange, CT. The Ballet Company will try to accommodate all who audition, irrespective of prior training and individuals do not have to dance at New England Ballet School to perform.

Audition fees are due at the time of registration. For additional information and audition times, please contact New England Ballet by telephone 203799-7950, email knebco@aol.com, or online at www.newenglandballet.org.

Nutcracker will be performed at the Parsons Complex in Milford on December 10th, 12th, and 13th.

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The Girls at Jennifer's House of Hair would like to send Special Thanks to those who donated money & raffle items.

Also, to those who volunteered to help make our Cut-A-Thon a huge success!!

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Please check out our website for upcoming events and specials. www.jhhair.com

Page 14 October 2009

Send in a Story!

Send in a Picture!

Send in a Poem!

Send in a Drawing!

The Kids Press!

Send to: The People’s Press Kids Press P.O. Box 4459 Yalesville CT 06492 sierra@peoplespressnews.com

My favorite thing about fall is chasing leaves in the wind and trying to catch them with my mouth. I do the same thing with snowflakes in winter. I also like to stuff old clothes and turn them into scarecrows with scary looking faces. I like candy so I can’t wait for Halloween. I do share with my sister sometimes. Cathy Kronin - Age 8

Now is the time to book Ruth for all of your Holiday Parties & Events.

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Page 15 October 2009

8th Annual ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina!

The 8th annual Soy Unica! Soy Latina! Community celebration is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2009 at Washington Middle School in Meriden from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. The event is hosted by the Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council and sponsored by Cox Communications and the James H. Napier Foundation This year, the event brings keynote speaker Ana Alfaro, a producer/host of the El Show de Analeh, Channel 18 Univision Network and Public Affairs Specialist for Connecticut Light and Power. As public relations professional, she has over 20 years of diverse experience in many aspects of marketing ranging from public, media and community relations.

This free mother/daughter event welcomes girls ages 9 - 18 and offers workshops, entertainment, health and wellness fair, prizes, and food all free of charge. The program helps girls and their mothers/caregivers to communicate and nurture healthy relationships.

To register or for more information, please contact Christelle Aube at 203-2943591 or email mawsac@aol.com

18th Annual Nutmeg Hamfest & ARRL Connecticut State Convention When: Sunday October 11, 2009 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Where MountainRidge Resort - 300 High Hill Rd. Wallingford, CT 06492 Giant Amateur Radio & Electronics Flea Market. Inside vendors and large outside tailgating area.

Indoor exhibits open to public at 8 AM New and used Ham Radio equipment - forums - demonstrations. General Admission - Adults $7.00 Children under 12 free. Sponsored by the Meriden Amateur Radio Club. Visit our web site for directions and information - www.nutmeghamfest.com

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Private Pilot Ground School starting Wednesday, October 21st.

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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? We will give you our candid advise from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.

June and Flora Dear Housewives, I was laid off from my job and am in the dumps. It is so difficult for me. When the kids are in school I just dwell on my situation. I have to stay chipper for my children. Any tips? I can't ask my friends...

Looking for a job in all the wrong places FLORA: Let's sign it "Looking for jobs in all the RIGHT places!" I will say, since your children are in school, tie your sneakers, take a big sip of water and go out side every day for a walk for 15 - 30 minutes. This will clear your head, naturally increase the chipper hormones inside you and give you a healthy attitude! Your Housewives are with you. Take the time during the day as a temporary job. This new temp job is called: job seeking. It can be a full-time job to look for a job. Get your name and resume on the job search sites. Create an electronic or paper file of all the places you contact and follow-up with. Get showered and dressed every day; right down to the shoes!

The Department of Labor has a Meriden CTWorks site on 85 West Main Street, Meriden, CT. 203-238-6148. There are self and assisted services there to help guide yo on your job seeking quest.

Flora is a praying lady, so I will pray for you and your family.

JUNE: A walk is great for your health but it isn't going to make you forget your jobless situation. That can be very scary. Maybe you can find a support group to have other people to talk to. Perhaps others with your company have been laid off recently. You should start scouring the want ads and use the internet. Many jobs are posted online now.

Look outside your field to maybe change careers. If you have to take a class try to do it now since you have a bit of time. I do like the temp agency idea since you may find a job you like and many turn into permanent positions. Good luck!

Dear Housewives, I recently found drugs in my son's backpack. I found a marijuana cigarette. He told me it wasn't his he was holding it for a friend and I believe him. Should I call the other kid's mother? Not "toking" around in Cheshire JUNE: Dear not toking, wake up fool. I believe the Cosby's had this issue, oh yeah, and the Brady's and any other family sitcom in the history of television. Your kid is smoking dope and for you to call up some kid's mother b/c your kid had pot is reckless at best. Unless you have proof, parent your own kid and tell him why he needs to knock it off.

Good luck and stop being blind to the issues that kids face now. Don't be one of those parents that make excuses for everything your kid does.

FLORA: I would call the parents of all his friends and share that you found a marijuana cigarette in your son's backpack. This way they are aware of what your son is doing. You all can be on the 'same team' when it comes to handling this serious issue. Talk with your son and tell him that that his friends families are aware.

There may be a someone in your town's Police Department that can guide you on how best to handle this matter.

Another idea is to also contact: www.mawsac.org This is the site for Meriden Wallingford Substance Abuse Council.

Their mission statement is: MAWSAC belongs to a statewide system of public/private partnerships known as Regional Action Councils. MAWSAC's mission is to join with communities and support them in their efforts to develop a climate where healthy life choices are fostered and realized.

Keep a close eye and a tight rein on your son; monitor his comings and goings.

Book nook/movie Corner JUNE: Hey Flora, time for the fall shows to start and I am so happy about it. "Biggest Loser" is back and awesome.

"The Office" and "30 Rock" are back as well as our favorite FX hit "Sons of Anarchy". We recently watched "Coraline" with the kids. A bit scary for them but a great movie overall. With Halloween around the corner you should rent it.

FLORA: I am about to read "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn". A review will follow....I haven't watched any movies recently.

To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com! The deadline for our November "Local Holiday Shopping Guide" issue is October 27th.

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Page 16 October 2009

Sheehan Announces New CAPT Scholars The following students have been selected as CAPT Scholars: Shayna Adams, Justyn Alexandre, John Anderson, Kristyn Banack, Brian Bates, Matthew Bennett, Timothy Bickford, Brett Biestek, Shayna Bisnov, Mary Kate Boyd, Colin Bradley, Matthew Brigante, Erika Bruneau, Mason Bush, Tara Butkus, Breanna Butler, Heika Caldropoli, Matthew Caparrotta, Rebecca Caruso, Shandi Chester, Deya Chowdhury, Brian Colantonio, Alexander Comforte, Garrett Corless, Jillian Cummings, Alexina DelVecchio, Erica Duran, Christopher Earley, Janet Early, Philip Gaetano, Matthew Gamache, Stephanie Gibson, Scott Gingras, Jessica Glynn, John Grammatico, Cody Grant, Amarah Johnson, Elizabeth Kadow, Michael Kadow, Kayla Kazimer, Graham Kelley, Laura Kinkead, Kirsten Knecht, Brianna Lauria, Jennifer Leno, Eric Liska, Elvia Lopez, Emily McCarthy, Shelby McIntryre, Lindsay Mongillo, Ryan Moore, Lisa Naples, Olivia Navickis, Chelsea Neelon, Reid Nelson, Robert Neubauer, Eric Nguyen, Zachary O'Malley, John Paiva, Amanda Ridley, Lauren Roddy, Kaitlyn Romania, Farah Salam, Julie Sandt, Alexander Scelzo, Janie Schlauder, Jennifer Seyler, Tori Sheldon, Cameron Sidwell, Jake Signore, Monika Singh, Austin Smith, Johnathan Songer, Luigi Tancredi, Ashley Testa, Minh Tran, Jeanne-Marie Van Heerden, Leanna Verch, Nicole Vitello, George Wooster and Tyler Yasensky. The CAPT Scholar award has been established to recognize the academic accomplishments of our students. To be eligible for recognition as a CAPT Scholar, graduating seniors must have achieved goal on all sections of the CAPT. The Sheehan faculty and administration are very proud of these students' accomplishments.

To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment.

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The deadline for our November issue is Oct. 25th! Don’t forget to share a piece of your life by sending a story or photo If you have an upcoming event in the months ahead send it in it would be our honor to help you AND we will send out each week’s events in our weekly email newsletter to our on-line subscribers to give you even more exposure. Sign up - it’s free! Go to www.peoplespressnews.com and click subsribe!

There are several ways to submit: Email: andy@peoplespressnews.com Web: www.peoplespressnews.com Mail: The People’s Press P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492

For Advertising call 203.235.9333

The People’s Press is now available to download in PDF form. Save it, Read it and Print it. We are always finding new ways to serve your needs because YOU matter most to us!

LEARNING TO FLY As you all know, as we pass through life we experience quite a few memorial times. I want to share with you one of my memorial experiences.

It was 1956. I had just got out of the Army, after being drafted and serving 2 years. I had acquired a job at Pratt & Whitney and was enrolled in apprentice machinist program. Life was good. I was still living home and had just brought a new car. I was looking for something new to do and decided to look into taking flying lessons.

I stopped at the Meriden Airport and inquired as to what was involved in learning how to fly a plane. I made an appointment to come in and talk to one of the instructors by the name of Roy Partridge.

Well, my appointment came. I introduced myself to Roy and we sat down for a cup of coffee. Roy asked me what I wanted to do and I replied, "I want to learn to fly." He outlined the process required to obtain a pilot license. I mentioned to Roy that I had never been up in a plane. His reply was, "let's go. I'll take you for a ride."

As he prepared to take the plane up he would explain every move he made to me. From the preflight walk around, to draining the fuel bowl, to signing in on the logbook and all the other preflight stuff that is required before you take off. It was just like taking a lesson. I was excited. We went up and flew around Meriden. You could see Long Island sound to the south and the Connecticut River to the East. He asked me where I lived and we flew over my house.

We returned to the airport, parked the plane and went into the lounge. Roy asked," Well Bob what do you think." I was hooked on learning how to fly and answered. "When can I start?" It would require 40 hours of flying time to qualify for a private license. Half of that time would be duel control, with an instructor and the rest a combination of solo time and instructor time. You could get a student license after 20 hours of duel control instruction. At that point you could fly the plane alone. I made arrangements to meet Roy every Sunday for lessons. Most of the time it was for an hour and every once in a while I would take a 2-hour lesson.

Roy was around 40 years old. He had gotten his pilot license when he was 18 years old so he had quite a few hours flying an airplane. He was a very good instructor and it seemed like nothing bothered him. He had served in the Army during the Korean War as a forward observer for artillery. He would go up in a small Piper Cub and watches were the shells were falling. He would than radio back the proper corrections to make. Several times he found bullet holes in the plane when he landed.

I was issued a logbook. Every pilot must have one and enter information about your flying. After every lesson I would enter the instruction and Roy would initial it. The hours soon began to add up.

It became quite routine. I would meet Roy at the airport. He would tell me what he would be teaching today and off we would go. He would leave everything to me. Pre flight walk around and all the pre flight other checks. I would taxi to the end of the runway and take off. Only making corrections if I was doing something wrong or not quite to his liking.

We had a few moments where things happened and Roy would grab the controls to correct what could be a dangerous situation. We were making a final approach to land; you had to use caution landing from south to north. The hightension wires south of the runway had not been relocated at this time. You had to watch your altitude so as to have plenty of clearance above them. I was at the controls; we were on our final approach, and both concentrating when out of nowhere something slammed into the plane with a big smashing sound. Roy grabbed the controls, applied the power and we gained altitude with no apparent problems. What had happened was we had hit a kite. Someone was flying a kite south of the airport. It was high enough that it was above us and we did not notice it. We hit the kite string, drawing the kite down until it slammed into the plane. Roy showed me an instructor that could react to an emergency.

A typical session of instruction would be practice of take off and landing, stall recovery, emergency situations and practice making proper turns. Roy would also ask me questions about flight rules, regulations and other stuff a pilot was required to know.

I had passed the 20hour requirement that would let me solo. Roy had asked me a couple of times if I could fly the plane alone. I said I could. We had just completed a series of practice take of and landings. As I started to taxi to the end of the runway again Roy had me stop. He got out of the plane, said take off and land three times, turned his back and walked away.

Now, this is the point in every pilot's life where you are looking forward with confidence or else fear. I thought I had the confidence. I taxied to the end of the runway, positioned the plane at 45 degrees, so that I could see anything approaching, found things to be clear, taxied to the end, applied the throttle and up I went. I was flying by myself for the first time. I flew the pattern around the airport; I had probably done it 100 times. I felt confident. During my final approach I was coming in what I thought was a little high. This would have me land too far down the runway. I did what Roy had taught me. I applied power and went around. I did a lot of talking to myself as I came around for another attempt to get the plane on the ground. I knew I could do what I Thank You!!! had been training for. My second attempt was flawless along with my next two. I have soloed. I was as proud as could be. I parked the plane, did the post flight checks and walked into the lounge thinking I would be greeted with a lot of compliments. None were coming except for Roy. His comment was, "good job Bob. For a minute I thought I was going to have to come up and get you." We both laughed.

I was now a certified pilot. I held a Student Pilot Certificate. I could fly a plane be myself. It was something I had dreamed of from when I was a child. A student pilot license has some restrictions. I could not take any passengers. I had to fly within a certain distance from the airport. Its purpose is to give you the opportunity to practice your skills and work toward getting your Private Pilot Certificate.

I continued to take lessons or just take a plane up alone. Being young my priorities started to change. My desire to fly took a back seat. I would go weeks without flying. I than stopped altogether. Never going back.

Now it's just one of the many life experiences I have had. I still think back with fond memories to when I was a pilot.

Bob Fowler Meriden, Connecticut

Jaydon thanks the Meriden Public Library for all of the summer friends we met. Also thanks to Andy and Dawn for all your hard work to give us the good news.

Besides the autumn poets sing, A few prosaic days A little this side of the snow And that side of the haze. ~Emily Dickinson

Page 17 October 2009

OCTOBER EVENTS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY MERIDEN-HALLOWEEN SPECIAL AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Come one! Come All! To The Meriden Public Library! See "Stage Fright-The Magic of Dan Bowen". This show will include music, sound FX, & audience participation. Show Time: Monday, October 26th at 6:30 PM. FREE tickets available in Children's Library as of October 1st. For more information call us at (203) 630-6347.

"MARK TWAIN'S LAST STAND" OCTOBER 6 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY "Not your common Mark Twain," is how people describe Alan Kitty as Mark Twain, the famed American humorist and storyteller. Mr. Kitty will be performing "Mark Twain's Last Stand" at Meriden Public Library, Griffin Room, on Tuesday, October 6 at 6:30 pm.

Alan Kitty has spent 30 years researching and performing Mark Twain. The hour long monolog combines Twain's wit and insight about the human condition with Kitty's skillful portrayal. The result is a show filled with socially charged humor that reflects modern sensibility. It electrifies audiences!

The program is free, but seating is limited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to reserve a seat.

"WE ARE ALL AGING" PROGRAM OCTOBER 7 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Aging is a process! Sister Suzanne Gross, FSE, Administrator, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care, will present an interesting and refreshing synopsis of "aging" as an attitude and journey of life on Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room at Meriden Public Library. Her presentation will address the medical, psychological, physical, and spiritual needs of the aging person. Marie Laffin, RN, Clinical Director, will share community resources and services available to seniors.

The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department of Meriden Public Library at (203) 630-6349, or email comsvc@hotmail.com if you would like to reserve a seat.

LEARN ABOUT STARTING A HOME BASED BUSINESS OCTOBER 10 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Come to Meriden Public Library on Saturday, October 10 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room to get tips on starting a home based business. Join Edith Agudo, a Mary Kay Regional Director, as she discusses building your business slowly and the do's and don'ts in marketing your business. This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com if you have questions about events at the library.

MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNOUNCES COLUMBUS DAY CLOSING Meriden Public Library will be closed Monday, October 12 to celebrate Columbus Day. The library will reopen for business on Tuesday, October 13 at 9:30 a.m.

The library's hours are: Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. and closed Sunday.

WRITERS NETWORK MEETS OCTOBER 13 AND OCTOBER 28 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will host a Writers Network group on Tuesday, October 13 and Wednesday, October 28 at 7:00 p.m. in the Friends Room. We invite anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter to attend.. The Writers Network is for anyone who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing.

The group will be run by Roberta Dolan, a Meriden resident who is trained in group facilitation and is in the process of writing her first book. The Writers Network group will meet twice a month and will occasionally invite editors, published authors and people versed in the publishing process to speak to the group.

If you are interested in joining the Writers Network, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email us comsvc@hotmail.com.

COLLEGE WORKSHOP OCTOBER 13 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be hosting the free workshop "Accepted: Getting into the college of your choice" presented by Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions on Tuesday, October 13 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room. This workshop will cover a variety of admissions policies and key factors used by admissions officers when making admissions decisions.

The program is free but registration is required. Sign up at www.kaptest.com, put in your zip code and locate the workshop you wish to attend. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about this program.

FENG SHUI PROGRAM OCTOBER 14 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Wouldn't it be great to get the most fun and function out of every room in your home? Join Ned Farrell, Feng Shui consultant, on Wednesday, October 14 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library, as he discusses "Well-being, one room at a time."

Another layer of Feng Shui is how we use the individual spaces in our homes. Each room has a function different from the rest. Knowing certain Feng Shui principles helps us garner the full potential from them all. Bring in a handdrawn floor plan to get the most out of Mr. Farrell's insights through Feng Shui eyes.

The program is free. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to reserve a seat.

FALL LUNCH TIME BOOK CLUB OCTOBER 15 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library will be holding a Thursday lunch time book club at noon in the Griffin Room. Bring your lunch and join in to share insights or comments about the book of the month. The following books will be featured: October 15 - Five Quarters of the Orange by Joanne Harris November 12 - The Guernsey Literary and Potatoe Peel Society by Mary Ann Schaeffer No registration is required. Just stop in and enjoy our literary feast of great novels. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com for more information.

LEARN TO BECOME CONFIDENT WITH THE CONNECTICUT LATINA UNITED STATES PAGEANT OCTOBER 17 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Come join the Queens and King of the Connecticut Latina United States Pageant on Saturday, October 17 at 2:00 pm in the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room. Magaly Cajigas, Pageant Director, will speak on being a positive role model and on becoming a confident individual. Additionally, the queens will show you how to walk with pose and confidence. This program is open to all ages. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to reserve a seat.

COME TELL YOUR SPOOKY STORY OCTOBER 22 AND OCTOBER 27 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Have you seen or heard a ghost? Did a dream or premonition save you from harm? Come to the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room on Thursday, October 22 from noon to 2:00 pm or Tuesday, October 27 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm and tell your story. If you would like, your story will be written down and posted on the free site www.DreamWatch.com. DreamWatch has been online for over 10 years, sharing the paranormal experiences of ordinary people from across the U.S. and around the world. It is completely anonymous and no personal information is posted. The program is free and all are invited to listen or share a story. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or comsvc@hotmail.com if you have questions about a library event.

BLUEGRASS AND FOLK MUSIC PROGRAM OCTOBER 24 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Phil Rosenthal and his wife Beth Sommers will be performing bluegrass and folk music on Saturday, October 24 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library. Phil Rosenthal is a highly regarded singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist in the world of folk and bluegrass music. He was lead singer and guitarist in the popular band the Seldom Scene, and was appointed Connecticut State Troubadour in 1994. His original songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, Bill Monroe and other.

The program is free but seating is limited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to reserve a seat.

NEW PROGRAM FOR JOB SEEKERS AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Meriden Public Library is starting a drop-in program to assist those who are out of work and need help using the internet for job searching and creating resumes. A skilled volunteer will assist library patrons on a first come, first serve basis each Tuesday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm starting October 13 in the Seminar Room. A sign-up sheet will be provided on Tuesdays - no pre-registration required. Depending on the need, a computer will be available for use by the volunteer and patron. Knowledge of a computer is required. The library offers separate computer classes to take prior to the job seeker program. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about the library programs.

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Page 18 October 2009

THE HOLIDAY FAIR YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!

The Ladies of St. Anne Society will hold their annual Holiday Fair on Saturday, November 21st from 9AM - 3PM at St. Laurent Church, 121 Camp St. Meriden. Plan to be there in the morning for the best selection of cookies sold at our ever-popular Cookie Walk; then shop from craft and white elephant tables to purchase baby quilts, Christmas cemetery boxes, Christmas wreaths, decorated table-top Christmas trees, dolls, jewelry, pot holders, scissor holders, and so much more! Check out the raffle items and purchase your tickets at the door as you enter. Raffle winners will be drawn Saturday afternoon! Don't leave before quenching your thirst, satisfying your appetite or just taking a break at the Candy Cane Cafe. The menu will include donuts, hot and cold beverages, hot soups, hotdogs, sandwiches and a slice of authentic French Meat pie. Plenty of off-street parking in the back of the church just follow the signs!

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News From Your Village Community Life Line Happy 9th Anniversary to our Peoples Press. Thank you to Dawn and Andy for the years of continual service to the community by keeping the paper and online service going. Thank you to the business's that continue to buy space for advertising to help finance the printing cost that allows the paper to continue to strive. Thank you to all the writers that bring apart of their lives to us in every issue.

The Peoples Press has helped our volunteer organization grow every year by allowing us to get our message out at no cost. We are a bigger and stronger group today by the efforts of all of you by allowing us to continue to grow by spreading our story in the paper. Thank you again Dawn and Andy.

South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department The department was established back in 1908. It is the only volunteer fire station today in the City of Meriden. It is manned completely by Volunteer professionals. We presently have 30 active members ranging from 18 years old to 64.

Our firefighters are certified by the State of CT Fire Academies. Their certification levels depend on the amount of time that each member has spent schooling themselves in the Fire Service. We continue to push our members to continue their education in the fire service and EMS, the more they learn the more they can improve their chance to advance in life's every day adventures.

Our active firefighters must achieve the level of Firefighter I which is approximately 180 hours within their first 12 months in our department. They also must achieve the level of Medical Response Technician (MRT) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) within their first 18 months. The certification process then continues, there is Firefighter II which is approximately 140 hours, Fire Instructor I approximately 100 hours, Fire Officer I approximately 100 hours and this list can and sometimes does continue further. Our members and their families are dedicated to serving not only South Meriden but also the whole City of Meriden when there are City wide emergencies.

We are one of the only fully volunteer fire stations in the state that has overnight duty crews. We have personnel that presently man our fire station 6 nights a week. This has been going on for over 9 years now. This allows us to respond quicker to emergencies in our area. We believe in providing good customer service to our customers, you our neighbors. South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department works hand and hand with the Meriden Career Fire Department.

Meriden Fire Department has 5 career stations based thought-out the City. The two main stations that also cover the South Meriden area are Station 1 which houses Engine 1 located on Chamberlain Highway and Station 2 which houses Engine 2 and Truck Company 1 (The Ladder Truck). We usually get dispatched at the same time for calls in the South Meriden area. The incident can be handled either by both of the departments or separately. When our station is manned either day or night depending on the severity of the incident we usually handle the incident ourselves, this frees the Meriden Engine company up to handle other emergency incidents that might occur. I believe that Meriden has the best career firefighters in the State. We work with them everyday and I think we all learn from each other each day.

Our call volume has been increasing each year. Our station will be doing over 750 calls this year. We are funded with approximately $72.000 a year from the City of Meriden. We also run our own fund raiser each year to help us buy extra equipment and supplies that we can not afford to purchase with the City funds. This year we are looking to purchase an all terrain vehicle equip for patient care and carry for the new liner trails that was built in South Meriden plus stage Two coming in the near future. This vehicle will be used to excess individuals that might get ill or injured while using the trails.

We not only recruit from within Meriden for Volunteers fire fighters but we also do recruitment for certified firefighters that live outside of Meriden as long as they can meet our bylaw requirements to do minimum one duty overnight crew a week plus meet our drill, meeting and squad duty requirements. Certified Fire Fighters can apply on Monday evenings at our fire station which is located at 31 Camp Street, South Meriden. Well that is all this month I will visit with you again hopefully next month God willing.

Stay safe, Keith Gordon Chief of Operations

Board of Education Candidate Debate & Children First Annual Meeting

584 West Main St. Meriden CT 06451 Tel: (203) 639-8168 Fax: (203) 639-8178

Tough economy. Higher school standards. Who will lead Meriden schools?

Before you vote on November 3, learn more about the candidates running for the Board for Education at a special 'kitchen table' forum, featuring questions from the crowd! Find out who will best represent the interests of you and your child at this important event.

The forum will be preceded by the Children First annual meeting. Meet the new CFI Board of Directors, hear the

Times are tough!

Relax and have fun at...

latest on the Early Childhood Blueprint & Meriden Children Zone and find out who will be recognized as the 2009 Meriden Children's Champions!

Wednesday, October 21, 6:00 p.m. John Barry Elementary School, 124 Columbia St. To reserve a seat contact Children First at 630-3566 or dwradcliffe@juno.com On-site professional childcare available on request. www.meridenchildrenfirst.org

CRAFT FAIR

AND

The Fatima Women's Club will be sponsoring a Craft Fair on Saturday, November 14 from 9:00am to 3:00pm at our Lady of Fatima Church, 382 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville, in the Parish Hall. Over 20 tables of crafters, vendors, bake sale and kid's table. Kitchen open for lunch purchases. Parish Hall is handicapped accessible.

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life. ~P.D. James

We know times are tough out there. We also know how important it is to relax and get away from it all. If you need a great meal, maybe a drink and some great entertainment come to Yogi’s. If you need a fall get away - just a breather from it all, we are here for you at Four Points by Sheraton.

It’s a simple choice to get away from tough times. Yogi’s and Four Points by Sheraton. Relax and Enjoy!

Now is the time to plan your holiday event or party.

Happy 9th Anniversary!

Look for our 55th Anniversary Celebration in November.

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Page 19 October 2009

WHY MERIDEN HAS REMAINED OUR HOMETOWN FOR FIVE DECADES

By Phyllis S. Donovan Isn't it strange how people settle in a certain town or city, get involved with the community and spend the rest of their lives there?

We've lived in Meriden since the spring of 1963, 46 years after buying the house in Carabetta's Birchwood Estates where we continue to happily reside.

Although we are still considered "newcomers" in the minds of people who have lived here all their lives and are privy to family relationships we still haven't been able to figure out, we feel that nearly half a century in this city has earned us some bragging rights.

It's funny how the city of Meriden played around the edges of our lives even before we moved here. I was born in the Massachusetts Berkshires and my husband grew up in Boston. We met at the University of Massachusetts at a time when the campus radio station was broadcasting on FM and most of us students still only had AM radios. I bought a new FM radio to listen to my future husband who was at the time regularly on air from the campus station and the only other program I could regularly pick up on it was WMMW's "Silver City Serenade." I listened to it regularly without having any inkling of where Meriden was way down there in Connecticut.

Anyone who took a geology course in those days would have seen photos of Meriden's unique "Hanging Hills" in their textbooks, and geology majors from UMass regularly journeyed down to Connecticut to actually see those hills.

When my soon-to-be husband joined the army and was stationed at Fort Dix, NJ, he would drive up from New Jersey to the Berkshires (where I was living with my parents and working in the Springfield, MA library) every weekend he had off. En route back to Fort Dix in his little 1939 Pontiac coupe along route 10 in the dark of those Sunday nights he would drive past the blinking radio towers on the top of Meriden's West Peak and know that he was halfway back to camp…a LONG trip in those days before I-91.

Once we were married, we returned to New England after a stint in Bordeaux, France with the army. Merely by happenstance, one of his fraternity brothers, who was working at New Departure on Pratt Street here, suggested we come and visit. He set up an interview for my husband at the plant and soon he was working as a junior engineer there.

We lived in an apartment in Wallingford for five years but our burgeoning family led us to think about buying a house in the area. We fell in love with the view of West Peak and its radio towers from this Carabetta development, put down our money, and had our own house built here.

Our five children went to Thomas Hooker School which meant PTA and bake sales. I joined the Junior Women, which at that time in Meriden was so popular with stay-at-home moms who welcomed the company of other young women serving the community, the club had to limit membership to 125 women under 40. As our kids moved on to Washington Middle School and Maloney High, spelling bees, drama club and glee club, football, track and soccer figured into our lives.

Once my gang were all in school, I went to work as the Record-Journal Society Editor and over the next 25 years the pages evolved in the Features section during which time I covered the area theater scene and wrote travel pieces.

My husband worked out of the area, at GE Corporate Headquarters in Fairfield, but kept up his local ties as a reader at St. Rose Church. Later, after retiring, he joined the YMCA's Ys Men whose programs have continued to keep his interests piqued and his mind active.

Over the years, I have been regularly irked by people who feel they must badmouth our city. We have long ago evolved from the gritty factory town of a much outdated stereotype. Reputation certainly does lag the fact.

We couldn't ask for a better location, almost at the center of the state and at the junction of important east-west and north-south highways. We have always been delighted at the end of long trips that we don't have to travel miles and miles over back roads to get home. Five minutes off the highway and we're home.

We are convinced that the scenery in this part of the state ranks among the best in the state. Not only our hanging hills but the other rugged ridges that surround us are striking in all seasons, from the frosted snows of winter to the shades of velvet greens in the summer setting sun. (Let's keep our ridges protected! We should never allow anything to be built up there.)

We have some of the prettiest parks anywhere and our Hubbard Park is a special gem. We never miss a chance to take visiting friends and relatives there and show it off. It is a beautiful and restful place to relax on a hot summer's evening. The fairyland lights of the holiday season, the beauty of our spring daffodils, the excitement and pleasure afforded by all the activities held there from the Daffodil Festival to ethnic events and graduations are all points of pride.

People who scoff at the city's blue-collar image overlook its cultural offerings. For art lovers, downtown offers both Gallery 53 and the Sandman Gallery and the Meriden Public Library always showcases local art talent. Warren Stephan's Castle Craig Players regularly present comedies, dramas and musicals for the pleasure of theatergoers.

In good weather, concerts are held regularly across from the Courthouse and in Hubbard Park. This month's Wine and Vine and Beer Fest events next to the courthouse downtown attracted congenial crowds in spite of cold and wet weather.

Sadly, after many years the curtain fell several years ago on the venerable Meriden Symphony but local chorales headed by Dorothy Barnhart and Nancy Stewart continue to bring pleasure to area music lovers.

Downtown, the Friends of the Library Bookstore offers gently used books for all tastes at very low prices, and the city has enough wonderful little restaurants for people to eat out inexpensively and well any day of the week.

Although we have lost our local movie theater, Wallingford's Holiday Cinemas offers a wide selection of the latest film releases to anyone venturing a few miles south.

All in all, we thank our lucky stars that all those years ago we opted to settle in Meriden with all it has to offer and, barring unforeseen circumstances, we're more than happy to live here contentedly for the rest of our lives.

2009 CONNECTICUT RENAISSANCE FAIRE OPEN RAIN OR SHINE 10 AM- 6 PM o WEEKENDS AND COLUMBUS DAY SEPTEMBER 26 to OCTOBER 18, 2009 September 26-27, Oct. 3-4, 10-12, 17-18, 2009 Take a step back in time and get lost in the revelry and excitement of the Connecticut Renaissance Faire. Be entertained with story telling, musicians, drama, jousting and so much more.

Be a part of history, or come as you are and immerse yourself in games, theater and New England's largest Medieval Marketplace. Experience over 40 hours of entertainment and sample a variety of Renaissance foods.

Whatever your tastes, the Connecticut Renaissance Faire is a unique entertainment experience and a feast for your imagination - for children of all ages.

WHEN: September 26-27, Oct. 3-4, 10-12, 17-18, 2009 10AM - 6PM (Rain or Shine) WHERE: Hebron Lions Fairgrounds (347 Gilead Street, Route 85 in Hebron, CT).

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Bring your car to Rousseau’s today for a full fall service!

ECONOMIC BOON

By Audrey C. Linke On August 12, 2009, I single handedly began an economic recovery in the state of Connecticut. I went to Home Depot and bought a toilet seat for five dollars and sixty-one cents. I planned to pay cash for this modest purchase but when the clerk suggested I open a charge account I thought it might mean a bonus for the young man so I signed up then and there.

Now the boon begins, beginning with the manufacturer of the toilet seat--an entire factory is open and running because of me. The factory, in turn, has hired shipping companies to get their products to the outlets that sell them to the public.

I have created jobs for the two men who assisted me with my purchase at Home Depot. Others work in the office.

The bookkeeper sent me literature concerning my new status as a holder of a charge account. A computer has been sold to that office because it is needed to record and track sales, create and send bills and record payments. Part of my bill is a sales tax that is eventually forwarded to the State of Connecticut, creating jobs for bookkeepers and others in the building they work in.

The U.S. Postal Service employs people to pick up and deliver this new correspondence. Everyone involved must use stamps or in some way pay for the cost of pickup and delivery. In fact, an entire building is devoted to sorting the mail in between its inception at Home Depot and delivery to my mailbox. The U.S. Postal Service relies on trucks with engines that must be maintained as well as tires that must be replaced and/or rotated on a regular schedule. Each employee has a boss and the bosses have bosses.

Banks are involved, too. Bank clerks must record my check and mail me a statement after I've paid my bill of five dollars and sixty-one cents. A bank has many employees, all operating out of a handsomely decorated and well maintained building with an adjoining parking lot.

Home Depot promises it will not charge interest on my five dollar and sixty-one cents if I pay my bill in full in six months. Sounds easy enough but with several communications from them when I first opened the account, I cannot remember what I did with the actual bill so I have not as yet written a check to cover the cost of my new toilet seat. I have not yet paid a penny for the economic recovery I've begun in America, except for the cost of running my own car.

Nevertheless, there are people working because of me.

You, too, can be part of this new, wonderfully exciting, economic revival. It's amazingly easy. All you have to do is buy a toilet seat. Be sure you charge it.

Always growing to serve your needs....

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Page 20 October 2009

Annual Holiday Craft Fair Nathan Hale School PTO will sponsor its Annual Holiday Craft Fair on Friday, December 4, 2009 from 5:30 to 8:30 PM at the school on Atkins Street Extension, Meriden, CT. Interested crafters can contact Kristen at (203) 686-1722 or jknedin@cox.net.

SOUTHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL CLASS REUNION 11/28/09 - AQUA TURF CONTACT GINA FERRACCI PELLEGRINO 203-631-8776 OR email: ginapellegrino238@yahoo.com

A New Member of the Family

“Spike” is a Tri-colored Shetland Sheepdog who is the newest member to our family. Love, Linda, Jeff and Sassy.

Comfort Keepers of Wallingford Wishes The People’s Press a Happy 9th Anniversary!

WALLINGFORD 203-697-1030

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MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER NEWS AND EVENTS The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens' Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver's license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!

For almost 30 years, the Meriden Senior Center has partnered with the Wallingford Meriden Branch of the American Red Cross to make sure that Meriden residents have access to transportation for out-of-town medical appointments.

Now that the Wallingford Red Cross office has been closed we have made plans to continue this program with Master's Manna in Wallingford and RSVP of Central Connecticut in New Britain. Both agencies use volunteers to drive seniors age 60 and over to out-of-town appointments, Master's Manna using agency vehicles, some inherited from the Red Cross, and RSVP drivers using their own personal cars and receiving a mileage reimbursement.

The Medical Transportation Program is funded by a grant from the Agency on Aging of South Central CT. There is no fee for the transportation but donations are appreciated and gladly accepted. People requesting transportation are asked to call one week in advance to either Master's Manna (678-3011) or RSVP (860-224-7117, local call) to schedule transportation to their out-of-town medical appointments. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many Red Cross volunteers who faithfully provided this service for many years and to especially acknowledge all of the good work done by Branch Manager Andrea Balsamo who ran an excellent program and is greatly missed by many in Meriden and Wallingford.

Senior Center members will be attending the 3rd annual "Life Begins at 50 Senior Fair & Job Fair" at the Wallingford Senior Center on Friday, October 23. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and is co-sponsored by Masonicare, MidState Medical Center, Shaw's, Osco Pharmacy and Johnson Brunetti retirement consultants. The Senior Fair includes free admission, information displays and handouts, workshops and seminars, screenings, refreshments, entertainment and more.

The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center will be on Wednesday, November 4 and Friday, November 6 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Several good reasons to take the class are to learn defensive driving techniques and new traffic laws, to find out how to adjust to age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time and to get an insurance discount. You don't have to take a test and millions of people have taken advantage of this valuable course! The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. People can sign-up in the office or by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. There are still plenty of openings for the November class dates so sign-up today!

Creative Writing Classes with Susan Sandel, PhD, will be returning to the Senior Center for six weeks starting on Tuesday, November 4. Classes are scheduled on November 4, 18 & 25 and December 2, 9 & 16 from 1:00 to 2:15 PM. The Creative Writing Classes are your opportunity to learn to express yourself in writing, to put your thoughts on paper and many times to chronicle your important memories to share with your family and friends. Susan makes the classes educational and enjoyable so please sign-up in the office to participate in the next session of Creative Writing starting on November 4!

New Opportunities of Greater Meriden is now scheduling appointments for people to apply for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program for the upcoming winter heating season. Any household with elderly (60 years of age or older) and/or disabled members, whose annual gross income is $21,660 or less for one person or $29,140 or less for two people, is eligible to receive help with the cost of their home heating bills. Assistance is also available for people at higher income levels. For further information or to schedule an appointment, call New Opportunities of Greater Meriden at 235-0278.

Congratulations to 2009 Senior Center 8 Ball Champion Jose Rios, Sr. who defeated Jose Pagan 5 games to 3 to win the title. Rios advanced to the final by beating longtime pool standout Russ Hettrick 5-4 and Pagan beat Raul Cardona 5-3 to win the other semi-final match. Congratulations to the first and second place winners and thank you to all of the 20 pool players who took part in this year's tournament!

John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director

"Myths, Misinformation and Old Wives' Tales" Lori Peck, MHS Dedicated Volunteer True, we've all heard one cat or dog myth or another, but are they really true? The most common being, "Black cats are unlucky." I mean come on, a black cat is just a cat. Consider yourself lucky to be in the presence of a beautiful, dark and mysterious creature. We've got some gorgeous one's at the shelter now.

Hopefully nobody really believes that cat's have nine lives. Cats are the same as any other mortal animal. That cats are very swift creatures and can get out of more difficult situations is only to their advantage.

A purring cat is a happy cat. Well yes this is true, but it is not the only time they purr. Some cats purr when they are sick or wounded, and also when they are afraid or stressed. Like when they go to the vet for a check-up.

Have you ever been told that a dogs' mouth is clean and its saliva will kill germs? In actuality, dogs' mouths are infested with germs. This is why Veterinarian's will give a wounded dog an Elizabethan collar for their head, to prevent the dog from licking itself.

Dogs can predict storms. Dogs actually can sense changes in barometric pressure. Because dog's senses are much better than humans, they can hear, smell, feel, see & taste better or differently than us. They have more sensitive ears and can feel the change in pressure. Or they watch the Weather Channel.

Chocolate is lethal for dogs. It can be if too much is ingested. Chocolate contains theobromine, which increases urination & affects the central nervous system as well as heart muscle. Amounts do vary by the type of chocolate, but it is the theobromine that is poisonous to dogs. I know I'm not allergic to it and can't live without it.

So basically, don't share your chocolate with your dog, adopt a black cat(or any color), don't have the dog clean an open wound, don't let the cat jump off a second floor porch and if you really want to know if its going to rain, ask your dog.

Upcoming events to benefit the M.H.S. are "A Cause 4 Paws Charity Concert," to be held on Oct. 17th, from 3-9 at the American Legion, 835 Hanover Rd, Meriden. There will be live music by"1800" and you can enjoy a BBQ and refreshments from 3-6. Band starts at 6 and rocks till 9 pm! Tickets are $15.00 per person. Huge Raffle Prizes!

Also, "Trails for Tails," is a 5k road race and 1k family & pet walk. The race takes place on Research Pkwy. There are prizes for the racers as well as pets and families. For more info and registration please check our website at www.meridenhs.petfinder.org.

Donations are always appreciated by the animals and can be dropped off at the shelter at 311 Murdock Ave. If you have any questions please call us at (203) 238-3650. Thank you and see you at the shelter!

MidState Medical Center Holiday Bazaar Set for November: Crafters Wanted!

Are you talented in arts and crafts? Do you have a special skill in jewelry making, hand made note cards or something else? MidState Medical Center is in search of local crafters from its communities for the annual Gift Gallery Holiday Bazaar to be held on Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 9 am - 4 pm in the Horwitz Conference Center at MidState Medical Center. Because of last year's very successful and well-attended event, the Bazaar will once again feature the talent and creativity of those in the community, in addition to employees and volunteers. Some of the crafts will include: jewelry making, photography, hand knit and crochet items, painted towels, floral arrangements, beautiful hand made accessories for the home and so much more! If you are interested in showcasing and selling your crafts, please contact Gift Gallery Manager Theresa Michalik at 203-694-8108 for more information and an application. Be sure to save the date and join us for a fun-filled day - November 14 - and get a head start on your holiday shopping!

Highland Elementary School PTO Craft Fair

Fully Insured and Licensed CT Lic. #104727

Highland Elementary School PTO will hold its 26th Annual Holiday Craft Fair at the school on Highland Avenue in Wallingford on Saturday, December 5, 2009 from 9 AM TO 3 PM. Over 65 crafters will sell items such as florals, live wreaths, jewelry, hand made candies and chocolate, Christmas ornaments, quilts, painting, country crafts, stocking stuffers, scrapbook items, sewing and knitted items, table accessories, etc. Refreshments will be available. There is no admission. For further information contact Carole Eager at careager@aol.com or the school at (203) 949-0121.

Page 21 October 2009

Meriden Historical Society News and Events The new October - November bulletin of the Meriden Historical Society is now available on our website http://www.meridenhistoricalsociety.org/category/news/ *SUNDAYS IN OCTOBER AT THE ANDREWS HOMESTEAD 424 W. Main St, Meriden, CT. Sundays, October 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2009 11:00 am 3:00 pm. On display are banks, bar ware, advertisements smoking related paraphernalia, jewelry, and other collectibles from the early beginnings of the company until it ceased its operation in 1999. A special section for show & tell so bring along your favorite Napier items to share with the society and with the visitors who will be there. *NOVEMBER MEETING: Thursday, November 12, 6:30 pm MERIDEN COOK-BOOKS - A MEMBERS ONLY POTLUCK SUPPER @ THE RESEARCH CENTER. Recipes for dishes brought to the communal dinner should be out of any of Meriden's cook books. Please call Lesley Solkoske at 203-440-3686 to co-ordinate.

Get Ready For Fall At Greenbacker’s!

Come on down for all of your fall needs.

Rakes Leaf Bags Lime Grass Seed Fertilizers and more!

Located 2 Miles Down Paddock Ave. from Burger King

Meriden

Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet

By Barbara Sherburne barndt49@yahoo.com "Aw, summer, I love you" is how I ended my last story, and now summer has passed us by once again in the inevitable cycle of seasons. I do really have a hard time letting go of summer. I feel as though we were a little cheated this summer with so much rain and cool temperatures, and the gardens definitely did not do very well this year.

I was "lucky," as many people have told me, that I had tomatoes at all and even cucumbers. I am wondering if my prayers and sending Reiki had anything to do with it though. I saw garden after garden at The Community Garden struck by the blight, and hardly anyone had tomatoes at all. My Jet Stars were doing very well, and I had only picked 18 with many more on the way when someone decided to pick every tomato on all six plants one day. So a few weeks ago I pulled them all out and put the cages away. That was disappointing, but hardly unexpected. My Better Boy tomatoes did not do very well. I picked a total of 13 of them, all on the small side, but at least I enjoyed about 10 tomato sandwiches this summer. They were very tasty, and I will miss those until next summer. I picked 13 peppers, but I also invited a couple of people to help themselves to my peppers, and I probably have another 10 or thereabouts to be picked. The crop that did the best were the cherry tomatoes. I picked a good 300 of them and ate most of those myself, although I did give some to friends. I am not talking about grape tomatoes or any other small variety. These are large cherry tomatoes. I actually added some to a sandwich I had today.

On September 1st, I still had one good healthy basil plant, the other three having succumbed to the blight, and I picked off all the leaves and went home and washed and dried them and then made a big batch of pesto, freezing some.

I enjoyed quite a few spaghetti meals using the pesto sauce. I still have some in the freezer for another day.

I have begun putting the garden to bed. I cut back the perennials that are finished for the season, pulled tomatoes out, did lots of weeding, and am still watering what flowers, tomatoes, and peppers are left. The marigolds are just beaming. This is their prime time. I keep dead-heading them all season long, and even though I know a frost will cut them down in a matter of time, I am still dead-heading them. This process makes them fill out to proportions that are hard to imagine. They are simply magnificent. My sunflowers from seed were the last sunflowers in the Community Garden to still be blooming, but they are about done. Some of my perennials are still in bloom and have doubled or tripled in size, which really surprised me. For some odd reason, some of my garlic plants have pushed through the soil as though it were spring. I left seeds in the ground after removing the garlic, but I don't know why they are growing now. Hmmmm.

So another season comes to an end. I was happy to receive an email from someone who is planning to move to Wallingford and had read my article and wanted to know exactly where the Wallingford Community Garden is. He is very interested in getting involved once he moves here. The Wallingford Community Garden is on East Center Street.

You go up past the East Center Market, past the entrance to 91, past Beaumont Farm, and after a little ways you will see the sign that says Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park on the right side, and that's where the garden is. If you get to MacKenzie Reservoir, you have gone too far.

However trying it might have been this summer; I always enjoy my gardening experience. It's hard work, yes, but not too hard. Gardening is something I need in my life right now. I am so involved with this electronic age with the proofreading and scoping work I do for court reporters, I need some time to be involved with nature and to touch it. I never wear gloves when I garden, and I can't really understand people who do wear them. I want to touch everything. I want to feel everything. It is my way of connecting with nature and God's earth and His bounty. And so I close this chapter. I look forward to spring. It is quite a ways off now, but it is always something I look forward to with great expectation. Marilyn, Paul, Leila, CJ, and all the other Community gardeners, I look forward to seeing you in the spring. May all good things come to you in the ensuing months.

Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30; Sat. 8:30-5; Sun. 10-4

COUNTRY STORE

Meriden’s Agway Dealer

(203) 238-2516

AVANTI

Restaurant & Lounge

Open for Lunch and Dinner

Featuring:

*Southern and Northern Italian Cuisine * Veal, Chicken & Seafood Specialties * Large Selection of Salads * Pizza * Grinders * Homemade Burgers * Specialty Wraps

We Make Your Events Special!

Plan your next party with us! Parties for up to 60 people are our specialty. We also offer off premises catering and party platters to go.

“Come visit and enjoy one of our finely prepared meals in the comfort of our new dining and lounge areas”

AVANTI

Restaurant & Lounge 34 River Road * South Meriden

203-4 440-9 9990

Tuesday-Friday 12-6pm Saturday & Sunday 12-5pm Closed Mondays

Page 22 October 2009

What's New in Children's Books at the Wallingford Public Library?

What's New in Children's Books? Childcare providers, parents and teachers are invited to join children's librarians Ruth Gaffey and Susan Stewart for a "night out" with some great new books for kids at the Wallingford Public Library on Thursday, November 5th at 7:00 p.m.

This is a Storyhour for grownups where we will share some of the absolute best new books for kids; explain why they will be making appearances on all the upcoming "best books" lists, and why they will be useful in your home or work. If you are looking for great new titles to share with the kids in your care, this is the program for you.

Continuing Education credits will be given to those preschool teachers and childcare providers who require them, and there will be a free raffle of children's books and materials following the program.

Pizza will be available at the start of the program. This program is being cosponsored by WECARE and WPL. You may register for this program online at www.wallingford.lioninc.org or by calling the Library at 284-6436 Story Times at the Wallingford Public Library Itty Bitty Babies Itty Bitty Babies, a special program for children age 12 months and under and their grown-ups, will take place on Thursdays, at 1:30 p.m. at the Wallingford Public Library starting September 24th.

This drop-in program introduces babies and their grown-ups to the Library and each other in a program filled with songs, rhymes and books. Stories and songs are for children 12 months and under but siblings are welcome.

Preschool Storytime Preschool storytimes for children ages 3-5 and their grown ups are offered at the Wallingford Public Library on Tuesdays, at 10:00 a.m.

Wednesdays, at 1:30 p.m.

Thursdays, at 6:30 p.m.

Books, flannelboard stories, rhymes, songs, and more are offered in this free drop-in program that's full of fun. Stories and activities are for children ages three to five but younger, interested siblings are welcome to attend.

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all. ~Stanley Horowitz

Amore’ Pizza

Only The Best - With Fast Free Delivery To Your Door!

265-2379 83 N. Turnpike Rd. Wallingford

Public Sails: Harbor Discovery Cruise Discover the wonders of New Haven Harbor— its ecology and maritime history Sunset Cruise View the picturesque skyline of New Haven from the deck of New Haven’s flagship.

Specialty Sails:

Fireworks Sail (West Haven & New Haven) Have the best seat in the house for viewing fireworks displays Chantey & Ale Sail: (21yrs +) Raise a glass and enjoy a bit of maritime history with local sea chantey singers Pirate Sail: Learn what life was really like for pirates of the high seas Brunch Sail: Enjoy a Sunday brunch while viewing the Long Island Sound coastline

Did You Know?

*ALL Sails depart from the Long Wharf Pier. (Long Wharf Dr., New Haven) * Food and beverages are welcome on board. Beer and wine is permitted, just no hard alcohol. * Reservation are required. Register online at www.schoonerinc.org or by calling: 203.865.1737 * Public/Specialty Sails run from June-October. To view our full schedule, please visit www.schoonerinc.org

Call 203.865.1737 www.schoonerinc.org

LEARN · EXPLORE · PROTECT Long Island Sound

The Thrill of Competitive Baking…..Durham Fair style.....

By Ernie Larsen - 9/30/09 By the time you read this the 2009 Durham Fair will be history; the weather was certainly more cooperative than last year where almost 3 days of rain and just terrible conditions put a damper on Connecticut's largest fair. This year, Sunday was pretty much of a washout; however tradition reigned, my daughter; granddaughter and myself braved the elements and had a very nice time at the fair. Did not have to contend with crowds, in essence, we had the place to ourselves. Sure it would have been nicer on a rain free day, but we made the most of it, wet or not. So what's the big deal about a fair, not only the DF, any fair in general; I had an idea on some of the origins of fairs yet just to expand my information base I did a GOOGLE search and was enlightened by some very interesting facts.

Back in the early 1800's fairs were pretty much for those in the agricultural pursuits. As a matter of fact the proper name of the aforementioned event is the Durham Agricultural Fair. And most other fairs still rely on their roots in the farming trades; the Hebron Harvest fair, Guilford Agricultural fair and the list goes on and on. Now, moving right along, in the early days of fairs farmers and their families came out to see the latest in new fangled equipment for the field, milk house and farm kitchen. Then someone came up with the idea of having competitions to see who had the best looking, strongest cattle and other farm animals; this blossomed, excuse the pun, to vegetables, field crops and finally including everyone in the farmers family; household crafts, baked goods, preserved foods, quilts, sewing - children's crafts; the list goes on; soon fairs became popular with city folk and through the years they have evolved into events that are eagerly awaited each fall. And you still can see new products, 'miracle mops' - 'magic knives' - food you never have at home: giant raised doughnuts, deep fried candy bars - fresh cut French fries - you know what I'm talking about. And to attract the public to these events, fairs now rely on top name entertainment - Durham has 'The Guess Who' plus other acts to get the folks out of the house. And I know the Berlin Fair next weekend will have a 'name' to entertain fairgoers.

Many fairs now are major fundraisers for local civic, religious, political and fraternal groups. Durham has all plus school groups and more. My sister-in-law will be hawking giant potatoes for her group. Last year, with the lousy weather, members of the group bailed out the group, sort of, buying leftover potatoes - I'll tell you we didn't have to buy potatoes for quite some time due to my brother and s.i.l.'s generosity.

Here in Connecticut we are fortunate to have more than a few fairs to attend if we choose. And even out of state, just a mere 50 minutes on the road can get you to the Big E, formerly the Eastern States Exposition. Some say it should be renamed the New England State fair; be that as it may it runs for almost 2.5 weeks and if you've never been, it is something to see.

Getting back to our local fairs, North Haven, Berlin, Durham are all within a short 15 minute ride or less, that is other than fair days. Durham is legendary for traffic jams on the Saturday and Sunday of the fair in good weather.

And of course the competitive exhibits, the local fairs are no slouch in sponsoring contests for almost anyone's desire.

The exhibitors guide for Durham is about the size of a weekly newsmagazine, with competitions for horses, cattle, vegetables, canning, pumpkins, photography, quilting and of course baking; that's where the extended Larsen family has been drawn for the last few years. The competitors this year, were Ernie, Catie, Sarah Larsen and good friends, Fran and Nancy. I entered six categories, ribboned in 4, Sarah and Catie entered three each garnering a couple of blues and 2nds while Fran and Nancy each had some firsts and other places. We all did very well, The two Larsen women made blue ribbon winning, killer Red Velvet cakes, Fran and myself got firsts in (cookie) Bars and Nancy took a Blue Ribbon in the Cookie Mix category. And I must congratulate Sarah who took a first in Quick Bread - beat Poppa, the QB King, oh well.

Just have to mention, the days leading up to the fair, around mine and Catie's house - it's almost like we each have a secret kitchen, very little interaction or conversation between us, not saying what is being entered - all in all a really fun time of year. Just kidding of course, right Catie?

It really is a treat to see so many people entering the competitive contests - the vegetables on display were top notch in this one of the worst growing seasons of recent times. Also, the canning competition had some yum-oh items on display. To me this is what a fair is all about, sure the food for sale is always an attraction and the entertainment always draws a crowd. By the way, I forgot to mention, I entered a snapshot in the Photography Division and one of my photos won a blue ribbon.

So that wound up our family competition for the year, we'll be talking about in the coming months, I think on Thanksgiving day we'll have the parading of the ribbons - this is a new tradition I just hatched. Boy, a holiday can't get more exciting than that, eh.

There are still a few fairs in October, head on out - see what's happening in the fair environment and make sure to check out the competitive exhibits.

See you next time.

IS JOINING A SKI CLUB FOR YOU? Meriden Ski Club Most folks who ski or board know that there are ski clubs in the area. They have also wondered, from time to time, if they should join one or at least look into what they offer their members.

The Meriden Ski Club has been around for 48 years, open to all, offering an organization that ski and snowboard enthusiast can join and enjoy the many benefits that a ski club offers. Close to 1,000 skiers and boarders coming from all walks of life and of all ages are members. By becoming a member you can pick and choose what activities of benefits you want to partake in. It could be the comradeship of other skiers and boarders. Have others to ski and board with by joining us on our various ski trips. You may not want to drive long distances to a ski area. The club offers bus trips that take you. No more driving home after a long day on the slopes and no more spending money for expensive gasoline. You may want to go on a week long ski vacation. For members who choose this avenue we offer trips out west or to Europe. The club makes all the arrangements. All you have to do is become a member, sign up, pay the fee and go.

If you have children, they are welcome. Any child under 18 years old automatically becomes a member when a parent joins. We offer ski or snowboard instruction for our members and children are welcome to join in.

We offer social events for the whole family. A Christmas party, miniature golf outing, racing and other events when children are welcome with an adult parent.

All of us who ski or board know how escalating coast have put a damper on our activities. We try to make skiing more affordable by offering discount tickets. We buy tickets at a bulk rate from Mt. Southington and discount them to our members. We have teamed up with the Connecticut Ski Council to purchase discounted tickets to areas like Stratton, Mt. Snow, Sugarbush, Okemo, Ascutney, Bromley and Stow at savings up to 60%. The cost of skiing at these major areas is now well within our financial means.

If you are into ski racing we also offer a program for that. Each year we have an inter club race. We have classes for both kids and adult members. Winners are awarded trophies at our annual club banquet. We have a club sponsored race team that races with other teams from the Connecticut Ski Council. This program is open to all adult skiers who race against others of the same age and gender. We meet at Mt. Southington on Monday nights. Those who race have the race cost reimbursed to them at the end of the season. As a member of the Meriden Ski Club you can also partake in races conducted by the CSC. For those of you along with skiing are looking for social events we also offer them. We meet weekly at the AOH hall in south Meriden. We have member nights when we offer refreshments and a time to meet other members. We have a ski movie night, holiday party, spaghetti dinner, annual banquet, golf tournament, summer picnic and other summer outings.

I'll ask the question again; "Is joining a ski club for you?" There is only one way to find out. Stop by our Open House on Oct. 29 at 7 PM at the AOH hall, 71 Melville Ave., South Meriden. Speak to our members and discover what joining the Meriden Ski Club has to offer you and your family. Than decide if joining a ski club is for you.

For more information visit WWW.meridenski.com or contact Bob Fowler (203) 2350142

Page 23 October 2009

ANNUAL MEETING

Victory Junction Camp

Join the Wallingford Historical Society for its annual meeting and dinner to be held on Wed. Oct.21 at the First Baptist Church in Wallingford. The Civil War Roundtable group called "The Calamity" will inform and entertain with Civil War music. Dinner is at 6:30 pm. Cost is $10.00pp. RSVP Ray or Pat Chappell 203-265-0313 Entertainment at 8pm. (free to all)

A Special Visit

Hunters Glen Morgans of Cheshire took a visit Saturday Sept 26, to the Masonic Home. This was the third time we made such a visit. 7 Morgans and 1 Fresian had the honor to visit the seniors at the home. 20 friends attended to the horses and showed their beauty, friendliness and personality to all. It was a very enjoyable afternoon shared by all.

In Memory of...

Matilda “Tilly” Lawlor who passed away on October 4, 2009. She will be sorely missed by her family and friends. Love from her brother Lew’s family - Priscilla, David, Cathy, Daniel, Matthew, Paul and Andy.

ANNUAL RUMMAGE TAG SALE AT YALESVILLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

October 23rd from 4--7PM Soup and light supper at a reasonable cost.

October 24th from 9--2PM Soup and ample lunch available.

Whatever you've broken or lost or outgrown or wished for, may be available to you by rummaging through the collectibles, the clothing, the books, the linens, the baked goods. Make it a FUN TIME for a good cause. THANK YOU!

Written By: Paul Narducci I would like to start of by thanking the Petty Family for keeping their son Adam's dream alive. The week we spent in Randleman North Carolina was simply unbelievable. It was five days of tranquility and normalcy my family has never experienced. Before, I continue with what the Petty family and the sponsors of Victory Junction Camp have put together I must stop and rewind. To fully understand where we are going , I must show you where we have been. My son Jonathan was born a healthy beautiful baby boy and the American dream was complete. I received a phone call from my wife saying I needed to pick Jonathan up at daycare. When I spoke to her she stated that he wasn't feeling well. When I arrived at day care little did I know it would be the worst day of our lives. There was something clearly wrong and we headed to the doctors. To make along day short we ended up at Yale Hospital hours later.

Jonathan was diagnosed with a rare disease called Transverse Myelitis and at seven months old was basically dead.

Jonathan is a quadriplegic, on a ventilator and is fed through a stomach tube. My wife and I spent every day and night with our son, never leaving his side. We lived this way for three months. While struggling to survive I remember asking God why, let me have this, please give me my son back, and other things I can't mention. The feeling of despair and loneliness was enough to choke every breath your body was able to produce. While fighting this fight Jonathan passed away several times and was brought back to us by the grace of God. Imagine what it is like to visit a loved one in the hospital for two hours and than imagine living there for three months. I wrote this poem about two years after we arrived home. While writing this I cried uncontrollably and it was such a feeling of healing that I feel it is important to share this with you. This puts a unique spin on what the first three months were like and how close I came to loosing myself, to the point of no return.

Wanting to die seeing you this way. If I could only take your place and throw it away. I want things back the way it was, if I could only find a way. Seeing you lying there fighting to stay, with thoughts in my head drifting away.

Wanting to die if you were taken away telling myself this wasn't the way. Taking life for granted you see, in my own despair you'll be. Hoping for life because death seemed to be so near for you and me. I'm confused and wanting to take your place asking why this happened. I don't understand this wasn't our plan, I just want this all to go away. If you were to go I'd be with you soon. Forever together and that's the way it should be.

After we left Yale we would spend another eight months at New Britain Hospital for Special Care. Bonnie and I continued to spend every day and night with our son. When we went back to work our parents and Jonathan's great grandmother stayed with Jonny during the day. Our first day home was full of fear, excitement, love and an overwhelming feeling of acceptance. Looking back I truly believe it was this that made us survive something no one should ever have to go through. When Jonathan got sick a part of me died that day and no one, not even myself is strong enough to get back what I have lost. With this in mind, it is truly wonderful to be alive and enjoying one of the best things in my life, my son Jonathan Paul Narducci.

"Honey, there having a camp for TM at Victory Junction in North Carolina. Yeah, that's good but were not going".

You see I'm a person that doesn't enjoy vacations and I like to stay at home. Home is my security blanket and where we are able to keep Jonathan safe. After being told we were accepted for camp I still didn't give this much thought.

Why, because I really had no intentions of going. The phone rang and it was Sandy Seigal. Sandy runs the Transverse Myletis Association and was involved with us since Jonathans diagnosis. He is truly a remarkable person with a heart the size of Texas. "Bonnie, Sandy Seigal called today we're going to camp". I'm not sure what really changed my mind but I know Sandy had something to do with it. Sandy , Thank You. Well, lets go back to camp!!!

Victory Junction Camp how do we feel ,WE FEEL SOOOOOOOOO GOOD!!!! To all the people in Nascar, the drivers, sponsors, Counselors, volunteers and most importantly Adam Petty and his family Thank you. You have allowed me the opportunity to continue to heal and provide my son a wonderful experience. We have watched the camp video about a dozen times and continue to yell the camp cheer. This was a week full of love, belonging, normalcy, acceptance and an escape. Jonathan truly loved the experience he had at camp. It was wonderful for him to meet the other children and adults with TM. Although there is no place like home, it is good to know we also have one at Victory Junction Camp.

Reality is something difficult for all of us to face but for me it was a matter of life or death. The river denial could take your soul and your inner being where everything around you could be swallowed and you yourself could be lost forever. Life is something I have had to embrace and with this acceptance I have found peace. I share this with you and take you to a place I have not even shared with my wife. I do this with the intent of allowing you the opportunity to face difficulties in your own life and realize although hope is alive, acceptance will make the light shine stronger. This is what The Victory Junction Camp has done for me. I ask that you take time to log onto www.victoryjunction.org If you are able, send them a donation and tell them Jonathan sent ya.

For Special Days, Birthdays and Holidays

Free Photo Form It’s Free. It always has been!

Celebrations of Life and Home Welcome Dominic Joseph Civitelli Born 8/20/04 7lbs. 19.5” Jeanine & George Grandparents: George & Phyllis Civitelli and Fred & Christina Pucci

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

Deadline for our November issue is October 25th.

Corner of Church Street (Rt. 68) & New Place St.

Page 24 October 2009

CRAFT FAIR The Fatima Women’s Club will be sponsoring a Craft Fair on Saturday, November 14 from 9:00am to 3:00pm at our Lady of Fatima Church, 382 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville, in the Parish Hall. Over 20 tables of crafters, vendors, bake sale and kid’s table. Kitchen open for lunch purchases. Parish Hall is handicapped accessible.

ANNUAL MEETING Join the Wallingford Historical Society for its annual meeting and dinner to be held on Wed. Oct.21 at the First Baptist Church in Wallingford. The Civil War Roundtable group called "The Calamity" will inform and entertain with Civil War music. Dinner is at 6:30 pm. Cost is $10.00pp. RSVP Ray or Pat Chappell 203-265-0313 Entertainment at 8pm. (free to all) I'll bet living in a nudist colony takes all the fun out of Halloween. ~Unknown

We are waiting....

Wallingford Early Childhood Alliance Resource and Education council WE CARE is offering a series of free workshops this Fall from the Family Resource Center in Wallingford. These workshops are offered to help parents and preschool teachers better understand the development issues of children-birth to 5.

Questions regarding the workshops can be directed to the WE CARE family resource center at 203-284-4019. WE CARE also offers playgroups for families with preschool children in both English [Playful Cruisers] and Spanish [Bebes Activos]. The WE CARE activities are made possible by the support of the Graustein Memorial Fund/Discovery Project and the Town of Wallingford. Most workshops are held at the Wallingford Parks and Recreation - 6 Fairfield Blvd. in Wallingford. Registration is required for the programs by calling the Parks and Recreation office at 203-294-2120 Upcoming Programs October 14 at 10 am Title: Water Safety&Aquatic Self Rescue for Infants/Toddlers Presenter: Jodi Mantie ISP-Certified Infant Swimming Instructor Location: WE CARE Family Resource Center in YSS at 6 Fairfield Blvd.

October 15 at 6:15pm Title: Enhancing Parent and Teacher Communication Presenter Sarah Schmidt, LCSW: Connecticut Child Guidance Clinic Location: Exit 4.5 at Parks and Recreation Center October 21 at 6:15 pm Title: Building Fine Motor Skills Presenter: Laura Bell, MS; OTR Location: Exit 3 P&R October 29 at 6:15 pm Title:Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: What is ADHD??

Presenter Sarah Schmidt, LCSW- Connecticut Child Guidance Clinid Location: Exit 3 P&R November 5 at 6:15 pm Title: What's New in Children's Books Presenters:Ruth Gaffey and Susan Stewart - Wallingford Children's Library Location ** note change** to Wallingford Public Library; 200 North Main Street: Wallingford Roberta Clouet - Project Coordinator WE CARE - a Discovery Project 203-284-4019

Upcoming Events at the Augusta...Augusta Curtis Cultural Center that is!

Chelsea and Lemmy waiting for supper patiently.

A Special Place...

For your special Holiday Event or Gathering.!

The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center invites you to hold your own special event at this historic and beautifully restored building. Our floor plan is well suited for a variety of events, from auctions to dinner parties and wedding receptions.

175 East Main Street, Meriden CT 06450 October 2009 Nites Out at the Augusta Featuring: "The Don Campbell Trio" Friday, Oct. 9 8:00pm Ticket $10 in advance and $15 at the door Enjoy and evening of a variety of music from county to rock at the Augusta Caberet style event, bring your own food & drink Meriden Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 2009 Inductees: Roger King, William Scully, & Vincent Pepe. Light refreshments will be served after ceremony, open to the public. 2:00pm 10/18/2009 175 East Main Street Meriden, CT Con Brio "Classical Quartet" 7:30pm 10/20/2009 at the Augusta Free Concert, donations appreciated November 2009 Hartt School 20/20 Perfomance Group Sunday, Nov.. 1st at 3:00pm Free Concert At the Augusta Classical Music Seniors Art Show & Sale Seniors Have Dreams Too Inc. will present Seniors Art Exhibit and Sale. Admission is $20 and $10 for Seniors and students. Food and Beverages will be provided and door prizes will be awarded. 11/5/2009 5:00pm to 8:00pm 175

If you are looking for a unique and memorable place to gather your friends and family or to host a corporate event, you have found it.

We offer: Exclusive Booking Table and Chair Rental Included Interior Security Set-up and Clean-up Handicap Access / Elevator

Make a wish for the perfect cake and it will come true for you at Marianna’s!

Voted #1 Bakery!

175 East Main Street in Meriden Contact Staci Roy at 203.639.2856 accc@ci.meriden.ct.us

www.curtisculturalcenter.org

Hours: Tuesday.- Friday. 7-6; Sat 7-4; Sun. 7-2 Clsoed Mon.

East Main Street Meriden, CT Holiday Tree & Item Display Silent Auction There is no admission fee to view the Holiday Display. Viewing times to be announced.

11/14/2009 to 12/14/2009 At the Augusta........175 East Main Street Meriden, Annual Augusta Auction 7:00pm Doors Open, Admission Free Saturday, Nov.14, 2009 Preview Party at 6:00pm admission fee charged for party only. Auction free to attend!

If you would like to place an ad in the item program or donate an item call 203-639-2856 or e-mail accc@ci.meriden.ct.us Holiday Arts,Crafts, & Baked Goods Fair Enjoy this artistic extravaganza of arts, crafts & baked goods all for sale......Enjoy our Holiday Display after you shop for those special items! Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009 At the Augusta........10am to 3pm 175 Main Street Meriden, If you would like to participate in the fair, tables are $25 per space and for application call or e-mail us at the Center.

Classical Guitar Concert by Hartt School of Music Guitar Dept .7pm Monday, Nov.30, 2009 At the Augusta Free Concert For more information on any of the above events please check out our website at www.curtisculturalcenter.org Staci M. Roy Executive Director Augusta Curtis Cultural Center 203-639-2856 P.O. Box 4173, 175 East Main Street Meriden, CT 06450

Page 25 October 2009

FENCES

Bitumen, Pennsylvania -- My Mom's Hometown

Up where Reservoir Avenue runs into Hubbard Park, was once a quiet and peaceful neighborhood before route 691 stabbed through the heart of the park and divided it in two. My childhood was spent there…

There is a chain-link fence at the divide between these two roads which is in total disrepair and may as well not be there in places. Why it's not maintained, I don't know, but what ever the rationale for building it in the first place must now be absent, for anyone or anything can freely access the highway from Reservoir Avenue.

There is another fence that should be there, but is not. Route 691 is a scant few feet from Reservoir Ave at this point, and the noise from 691 permeates and ruins the tranquility of this neighborhood. The fence that should be there would be a tall wooden sound barrier that one sees all over the state, wherever a large highway passes a group of homes. Such a barrier would provide a lot of relief to the people who live there. We see these barriers all over, but if ever there was a deserving place for one, it would be here.

I don't live on Reservoir Ave anymore, but walk by there often, and I am amazed at the noise levels. If one would go to this place, and if the noise from the cars, trucks and the "jake" brakes subsides for a moment, you just might be able to hear the sounds of the birds and ducks again. A fence can make good neighbors, and maybe a sound barrier would help to make good neighbors of these two roads David L. Pepe - Meriden, Conn.

In 1914 my Mom was born, Gladys Mae Seyler, in a little community located in central Pennsylvania, which took its name from the coal that was mined there. The early residents shortened bituminous to make it less cumbersome when telling folks where they were from. Most of the people that had settled there came from countries such as Hungary, Yugoslavia, and Poland. Mom's grandparents, however, had come over from the Rhineland. Bitumen was never considered a town … not even a township -- just a community. The Kettle Creek Coal Company owned most of the land in that area around that time. The coal company started mining coal there in 1885; built company houses, company stores, and even a small Protestant church. Part of the church was used as a schoolhouse where the children were taught grammar, mathematics, history and religious instructions. The coal company would allow the residents to sharecrop on company-owned farms, and in this way, folks like Mom and her family, could save money by harvesting and canning what they had planted, and thus, spend less money at the company store. Mom would tell me about how her father, my grandfather, worked hard in the fields during the day and even harder in the coalmines at night. She also told me how her dad, and a lot of others there, would give the doctor a peck of tomatoes or a loaf of bread to pay for medical needs that arose from time to time. Somehow, she told me, they managed to own a few chickens and pigs, and these, of course, provided some extra food that they so desperately needed. Once, when she was 12 years old, she had broken her leg. She had fallen from a tree that she had climbed to pick some pears that grew in her backyard. Dad summoned the doctor, and in no time, he had set the broken bone, put a splint on it, and wrapped it with linen from one of her mother's petticoats. The doctor accepted one of the chickens as payment in full. Mom said how she had cried more over the chicken than she did the pain. She remembered how funny it looked to see the doctor with his medical bag under one arm, and the chicken tucked up under his other, climbing up into his buggy … there were still some people who used a horse and buggy to get around back then. Sundays were very special for everyone who lived in the area.

They would all sing and listen in earnest to the words of the preacher. All the dirt and coal dust had been washed off the miners the night before … this was accomplished by using the big galvanized washtub, laundry soap, and the good old-fashioned scrub brush.

One thing she said that she would always remember was how one teacher came up with his way of getting the kids to stay attentive in class. He would have everyone stand up, form a circle, clasp hands, and then he would touch a button on this electrical gadget with his bare foot that would send a jolting electric shock through him and all the students.

It sure woke everyone up … and twice each day, this was done.

My dear mother passed away in 1989, and I will always be grateful, among other things, for the times she would sit down with me and tell me all about her growing up in that tiny little community known as Bitumen.

--George Arndt-

Wallingford Family YMCA The Wallingford Family YMCA is accepting applications for it's Before and After School programs, located in all of Wallingford's 8 elementary schools.

The programs are state licensed. All programs offer morning and afternoon snack, time for homework with staff assistance, indoor and outdoor games, as well as crafts and other activities. All sites participate in a monthly community service project.

Limited space is also available in our Kindergarten programs, for both half and full day kindergarten students. Morning and afternoon snacks are offered, as well as a variety of quiet and active games, arts and crafts, field trips, and special events. All Day Kindergarten students also have weekly computer lessons. Our All Day program gives children an added advantage of smaller classes, which carries the benefit of a lower student to teacher ratio. Both curriculums are in conjunction with the town's kindergarten curriculum. All children also enjoy weekly swimming, gym, and music.

The YMCA School Age programs are based on the core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Financial aid is available in our school age and half day kindergarten programs.

For more information, contact Jane Rynaski at 269-4497 x 18 or jrynaski@wallingfordymca.org.

No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace As I have seen in one autumnal face. ~John Donne

Catering for all occasions at Rosa’s Deli!

POEM OF THE ROSE

By Catherine Short The thorn of the rose that has punctured my soul. Agony is a constant companion. Am I going through an initiation?

The darkness and pain are relentless. I yearn for the opening of the rose, its soft petals brush against my cheek.

My tears joining the dew on the petals. Some relief of the pain. To see the beauty in the world. Compassion is born as the pain continues and I see it and feel it in others.

My heart is broken. My body is broken. Can I transcend and live with the agony? The rose is in full bloom. I can feel its beauty. Soon the petals start withering and dropping off.

The rose is dieing. I am still here in pain. The rose has taught me there is beauty and hope.

Wallingford Family YMCA Dolphin Swim Team Fall/Winter 2009-2010 This coed program was formed to develop spirit, mind, and body of youth ages 5-18. The team competes in the YMCA Yankee Cluster League.

YMCA Swim Team provides an opportunity to compete in the Cluster, Regional, and National Levels. The season runs October 12 through the beginning of March 2010. Practice consists of stroke development and conditioning. The Junior & Senior groups will also include a strength training/ dry-land conditioning program. In order to develop each child to their potential, swimmers are grouped by ability levels. Swim meets are matched with children in their own age group from other teams. All children are given the opportunity to compete in the swim meets which are held on Saturdays. Practice times and locations will be announced in mid September. Because of the size of the team, the use of Sheehan High School pool for some practices may be arranged. Membership is required for all Dolphin Swim Team participants. There will be a swim team information meeting on Wednesday September 30 @ 7:30pm. Contact Head Coach Keith Cargan at (203) 269-4497 x30 or visit www.wallingforddolphins.org for more information October's poplars are flaming torches lighting the way to winter. ~Nova Bair Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn. ~Elizabeth Lawrence

Absentee Ballots

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

Visit our website at

rosasdeli.com

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

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

Remember to apply for your Absentee Ballot for the upcoming Municipal Election! Waiting until the last minute may result in your vote not counting! Come into the Wallingford Town Clerk’s Office to apply. We are located in the Wallingford Town Hall, Room 108, 45 South Main Street. Call 203.294.2145

Charter Revision Questions Appear on This Years Municipal Ballot.

Page 26 October 2009

THE NAPIER COMPANY ON DISPLAY AT THE ANDREW'S HOMESTEAD The Meriden Historical Society will open the Andrew's Homestead, 424 W. Main St, Meriden, CT (next to Ben Franklin School) every Sunday during the month of October.

The Napier Company will be the featured exhibit. On display will be banks, bar ware, cigarette items, jewelry, advertisements and other collectibles from the early beginnings until their closing in 1999. For this exhibit we would encourage you to bring along your favorite Napier items to share with the society and any visitors who may be there. We will have a special, temporary section for display or, if it's jewelry, you could simply wear it. It seems everyone who comes to the Andrew's Homestead has a story to tell and that's what makes it so interesting. The people of Meriden are all connected through our wonderful manufacturing history. We welcome you each Sunday in October from 11am until 3pm. Admission is free, donations are always appreciated. Stop in and see what's inside the old red house.

To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will sponsor as well as the return on your investment.

Happy Birthday

This Month’s Tip Talks About Alzheimer’s Disease and Why It Is So Important To Be Aware Of The Higher Levels Of Stress Which Is Often Associated With Caring For Elderly Seniors From Carol Carbutti The Owner OF Comfort Keepers In Wallingford, CT Companions and homemaking caregivers including family members should know how to identify the signs and symptoms of caregiver stress, and what you can do to help.

Most seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease are primarily cared for at home by a family member (usually a spouse or a daughter) so maintaining the family caregiver's emotional and physical health is crucial. By embracing help from others, family caregivers can minimize the hazards and enhance the joys of the caregiving experience. Health care professionals like Comfort Keepers in Wallingford, CT can play a vital role in the caregiving journey by referring the family to elderly respite and senior home support services as well as becoming an important resource for Alzheimer's related information.

Signs of Caregiver Stress Family and professional caregiver stress is a normal part of Alzheimer caregiving. There are steps we can take to reduce it, but first we must recognize it. The 10 warning signs of caregiver stress may include denial, anger at the elderly person with the disease and others, emotional sensitivity, social withdrawal and depression. Symptoms also include lack of sleep, lack of concentration, exhaustion, anxiety and an increase in health problems. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of caregiver stress, it is important to get help.

Family members of senior citizens with Alzheimer’s should ask other family members and friends for their support.

This will help you reduce your heavy stress level and this will allow you time to rest. You will also need to keep up with your doctor for regular check-ups. Family caregivers should also take advantage of services like Comfort Keepers Companion, Homemaking and Personal care programs that provide respite and relief from caregiving, practical help with meals or housework and assistance with the care of the person with Alzheimer's disease.

Whether you are a family caregiver or work with persons with Alzheimer’s disease in a professional role, it’s important to recognize the signs of stress and ensure you look after yourself – others are counting on you to be there for them today and tomorrow!

Walking through the Doors of Opportunity Without Fear: A Transformational Experience

Wishing Rachel and Richard Birmingham a Happy 15th birthday Love, Mom xoxoxo

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

This newspaper is not affiliated with any other newspaper.

Publishers:

Andrew& Dawn Reynolds peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com Managing Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Copy Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Advertising Andy Reynolds andy@peoplespressnews.com Web Site Web Solutions, LLC Writers YOU WRITE IT....WE PRINT IT!!!

“The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your Views” publications are published by: DNA, LLC P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com www.peoplespressnews.com • Phone (203) 235-9333 Advertising (203) 235-9333 The People's Press,Your Town, Your News, Your Views and all versions or portions of said name are ©Copyright DNA,LLC. 1999-2009 All Text, Logos, Images and other content in print, web or in any way or form are ©Copyright DNA, LLC 1999-2009 All Rights Reserved The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher and DNA, LLC. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or submissions. All items contained herein, including advertisements or portions thereof, may not be reproduced in any way, shape or form without the written consent of the publisher. All submissions whether by mail, fax, email or any other means become the property of The People’s Press and DNA, LLC and may be used in any media it so chooses. By submitting to this paper you agree to these terms and release The People’s Press and DNA, LLC from any financial obligations or notifications for any future use of any of said submissions.

The People’s Press will make every effort to see that all advertising copy is correctly printed. The publisher assumes no responsibility for typographical errors in advertising, advertising inadvertently left out; but will gladly reprint, without charge, that part of an advertisement is which any error may have occurred, provided that a claim is made within five days of publication. The publisher takes no responsibility for statements or claims made in any advertisement. Any copy or images designed or developed by The People’s Press are ©Copyright DNA,LLC and may not be used in any other medium. All Rights Reserved By advertising within The People’s Press, you agree to these terms.

By Jennifer Jenkins In these present times, we find ourselves living with uncertainty. Many people either fear losing their jobs or risk changing their jobs. The truth is that our jobs do not define us. We hold that key. So, if we do "lose a job," our life is meant to begin anew. We have the power to open and walk through new doors of opportunity. When we believe in ourselves, in spite of whatever skill sets we may presently have, we can achieve more than we realize. Look at the former GM employees as an example of those who have transformed their lives. Many of these former employees, including assembly line workers who have worked for GM for most of their adult lives, have re-trained themselves through various programs and are now working in completely new professions, such as nursing. They may have seen a door close yet they have also seen many new doors of opportunity. They saw this because they stayed open to all possibilities and realized they could be of service to others and still earn a good living. Many have attested to how much their lives have transformed for the better by letting go of the old and beginning anew.

Zanette Lewis, a beautiful multi-faceted woman who graced my life and the lives of countless others, is a shining example of this kind of transformational experience. "Z", the name by which she was well known, experienced many professional changes in her life. As I recall, "Z", worked in Human Resources for a local corporation before beginning her brilliant career in community, organizational and educational work, as well as professional astrology consulting work. She realized that to fulfill herself and actualize her true potential she needed to make a change and leave Corporate America, even though she was giving up the comfort of a job she held for many years. It was her belief in herself and pushing past any fears that came up for her that enabled her to ultimately make such a career transition, walk through the doors of opportunity that opened for her, and eventually help so many people. If "Z" had held herself back and had not walked through those doors of opportunity so long ago she would never have felt the personal fulfillment she gained from her dynamic work. But, most importantly, she would not have been able to have been such a positive and transforming force in so many people's lives, if it had not been for her courage and commitment to transforming herself.

You see the first step, even if it's only a baby step, is believing in yourself, that you have the power to change your life for the better and the lives of those around you. The second is realizing that you are not your job; you are a powerfully creative and spiritual being living a human existence. It is what you do with your life that defines you. The third is to keep yourself open to all possibilities so that you can quickly enter any doors of opportunity that God opens for you. Have faith that they will open, and they will for you to walk through. It may be in the form of a flyer for a class of some sort, or even an invitation to join a professional group which leads to transforming yourself. As they say, God works in mysterious ways. I will even take that a step further and say that God works in mysterious ways to enable us to transform ourselves for the better and reach our highest potential.

Train with a Friend at the Meriden YMCA Exercising with a friend is always more fun! The Meriden YMCA is now offering an opportunity for members to train with a friend at one low price with our Personal Training Fall Special for 2. Our personal trainers will motivate you, answer all questions concerning health, exercise, nutrition, diet, and design a customized goal oriented exercise program for you and a friend. Progress charts, body-fat testing, and fitness assessment tests can be included in your package, just ask your instructor. Five sessions are available for $175.00 and ten sessions for $255. For more information, please call the Meriden YMCA at 203.235.6386 or visit us on the web at www.meridenymca.org

The People’s Press would like to thank all of our readers and writers for allowing us to serve you over the last 9 years. We would also like to thank our locally owned business friends who have made this paper possible in order to do so.

It has been our honor to be a part of your lives and we pledge to continue the good fight in the years to come. Thank you again for making a difference in our towns and the folks who live there by sharing your good news.

Page 27 October 2009

Giant $4-a-bagful book sale coming to Meriden Public Library The Friends of the Meriden Public Library will hold a giant $4 a bagful book sale on Friday and Saturday, October 16 and 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Friends Room at the Meriden Public Library, 105 Miller Street.

The Friends' book sorting room at the library is overflowing with good quality used books which will be displayed for purchase in the Friends Room during the two-day sale. This is a bargain situation for all area book lovers. Friends of the Library Bookstore volunteers will be on hand to provide the bags to customers and help customers with their selections.

Among the stock offered will be fiction and mysteries (including romance, adventure, horror, science fiction and spy novels), cookbooks, home and garden, hobbies, sports, humor, travel, biography, religion and history as well as classics, reference books, large coffee table books and lots of children's books. (This is a great opportunity for teachers to expand their classroom libraries.)

An assortment of CDs, DVDs, audio and videotapes will also be on sale.

Every child attending the sale will be given a free book of his or her choice at the checkout desk.

Come and stock up on books for yourself, your family or to use as gifts for the upcoming holidays.

Thank you for allowing us to serve your needs for the last 9 years.

We look forward to serving them for many more.

Sincerely, Your Friends at The People’s Press.

Way To Go!

Happy Together!

PATRICK (right) ALONG WITH HENRI AFTER HIS 3RD HIKE UP MT. MONADNOCK Here is Peanut who is now 9 and half and a picture of Kylie a 6 month old Yorkiepoo. They are adorable together and in June they travelled 3300 miles to Canada, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana and home. Submitted by Christelle Aube.

Tasty Traditions at Marianna’s

ANNUAL RUMMAGE TAG SALE AT YALESVILLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH October 23: 4--7PM (soup and light supper at a reasonable cost) October 24: 9--2PM (soup and ample lunch available) Located at the corner of Church St. and New Place St. (Yalesville).

Whatever you've broken or lost or outgrown or wished for, may be available to you by rummaging through the collectibles, the clothing, the books, the linens, the baked goods. Make it a FUN TIME for a good cause.

We Offer: Eye Exams/Medical Treatment of Diseases and Disorders of the Eye * Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff * Great Selection of Eyeware including Designer Names * Contact Lenses * Most Major Insurances Accepted

ADULT AND PEDIATRIC CARE Hours: Tuesday.- Friday. 7-6; Sat 7-4; Sun. 7-2 Clsoed Mon.

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7-6; Saturday 7-4; Sun. 7-2 238-0159 • 212 West Main Street, Meriden

Page 28 October 2009

Meriden Feed’s Annual Early Order Wild Bird Seed Sale Order your seed by 10/28/09 Pick up you seed between 10/31-11/14/09

1107 Havover Avenue, South Meriden 203.634.9811 The Bronze Wash

$2.00 OFF!!

Regular Price - $8.00 Includes: Exterior Wash and Towel Dry

A M A Z I N G S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 10/31/09

The Gold Wash

Black oil, striped & shelled sunflower, peanut hearts, fine cracked corn, and white millet.

$12.99* 40LB

Same as Song Maker, but with added levels sunflower.

Premium mix with extra sunflower and safflower seeds.

$18.99* 40LB

$15.99* 40LB

$2.00 OFF!!

Regular Price - $14.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash, Wheel Brite, Sealer Wax, Triple Foam and Towel Dry

H U G E S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 10/31/09

The Silver Wash

$2.00 OFF!!

HEATH FLAVORED SUETS #DD4, DD15, DD14, DD18

$8.99 CASE OF 12/11OZ CAKES

PLUS Grey Striped Sunflower $25.99 for 50lb. Bag Premium no corn mix with extra sunflower and safflower seeds.

$19.99* 40LB

Extra Clean Black Oil Sunflower Seed

$13.49* 40LB Thistle Seed $9.99 for 10lbs. $39.99 for 50lbs.

White Safflower Seed $34.99 for 50lb. Bag Sunflower Chips $39.99 for 50lb. Bag

***BONUS SAVINGS*** *PLACE YOUR ORDER IN PERSON

AND MAKE A BIRD FEEDER PURCHASE TO SAVE UP TO $1 MORE PER BAG!!

Minimum purchase required, Expires 10/28/09.

See store for details.

Regular Price - $9.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash and Towel Dry

I N C R E D I B L E S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 10/31/09

The Wheel Deal

$2.00 OFF!!

Regular Price - $11.00 Includes: Exterior Wash, Under Carriage Wash, Wheel Brite, Sealer Wax and Towel Dry

FA N TA S T I C S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 10/31/09

Interior-Exterior Detail

$5.00 OFF!!

Includes: Vacuum, Vinyl Cleaning, Shampoo Carpets and Window Cleaning

C A N ’ T B E AT T H E S AV I N G S !

Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 10/31/09

Bumper to Bumper Detail

MERIDEN FEED FARM • GARDEN • PET SUPPLIES

$15.00 OFF!!

Selection Keep You Coming Back!

T H E W O R K S AT T H I S P R I C E ?

Where Old Fashioned Values and Great Prices & 846 Old Colony Rd., Meriden 237-4414 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00 A.M. - 5:30 P.M., Sat. 8:00 A.M. -4:00 P.M.

Includes: Exterior Wash, Wax, Vacuum, Vinyl Cleaning, Shampoo Carpets and Window Cleaning! Monday Friday Only Limit one coupon per customer. No other coupons or discounts apply. Coupon must be submitted for this offer. Coupon expires 10/31/09