Read The People's Press - Meriden, Wallingford and Central Connecticut's Newspaper

Your Stories June 2009

2009-06-05T19:08:00.004-04:00

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Red Cross closure
Dan McKercher

It's truly a sad day when outsiders have the ability to manipulate things in our community in such a way that hurts our neighbors.

It would seem that Charles Frey "email cfrey@arcsct.org, phone number 203-787-6721" and Diane Auger "email augerd@usa.redcross.org, phone number 860-678-2700" didn't do their homework when deciding to close the Wallingford branch.

If this closure goes through then the red cross will lose not only the much needed funds that this chapter pulls in from it's community and from the United Way. Not to mention the volunteers that the Wallingford staff has been able to put together to form a family of neighbors that happily help one another.

If the powers that be were to take a close look at what is done at this chapter they will find that if they were to replicate what is going on here they wouldn't have the financial problems that they now have. The Red Cross as it is known in Wallingford is a community entity helping it's neighbors by not only doing It's core services but extending a hand to folks that need it.

You would think that folks learned from what happened with the 9/11 mess that the Red Cross got into by trying to soak funds away from the neighbors that gave thinking that it would go to the families that were lost! Maybe Charles and Diane forgot what happened.

The question that should be asked here is why would anyone want to kill a cash cow? Someone should Ask Charles Frey and Diane Auger, Why would they want to kill a Chapter that brings in enough funds to pay it's own staff, support the services that it provides, but also makes enough to help build Charles and Diane's pay check too!

Star Mentor
Submitted by Joy Dutra

Gus Robotics Team 228 would like to announce that Mr. Gordon Morrison, team teacher and mentor won the �Star Mentor� award at WPI on May 9, 2009. Many letters of nomination were received, but Mr. Morrison was chosen for his ten years of commitment to Team 228. He will be retiring from Maloney High as a physics teacher this year. Everyone on the team has appreciated all of Mr. Morrison�s time, commitment, kindness and knowledge that he has shared with the team.

Gus Robotics Team 228
Submitted by Joy Dutra � Tema Mentor

Gus Robotics Team 228 consisting of students from Platt, Maloney and Wilcox recently participated in the World Championship Robotics Competition held in Atlanta, Georgia during April vacation. Our robot did well and our students met other students from all over the world.

In addition, Gus Robotics also won the Motorola Award for Innovative Design at the Hartford Regional and best website award. Our team is very proud of its accomplishments. Gus Robotics will be competing at Battle Cry 10 at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in May and at the Where is Wolcott? competition at Wolcott High School in June. Team 228 is always open to students who are interested in science, technology, engineering, computers and team spirit/pep. For more information please check out our website at www.team228.org.

An interview with Wayne Barneschi on the Wallingford-Meriden branch of the American Red Cross.

1. How did you develop the relationship with the Meriden-Wallingord branch of the American Red Cross?

Andrea was the only reason the Trail of Terror and the Red Cross had a relationship. When I walked into her office and met her she was the only charity person that embraced us and we have been working closely ever since. Her warm kindness and integrity gave us a reason to work as hard as we do to assure her vision was fulfilled.

2. Is that the reason you started the "Trail of Terror?"

No, but it became the reason to continue. Once I sat on the Advisory Board and realized the extra services this branch offered to the community I wanted to do as much as I could for them. The Wallingford Branch and its staff took on Andrea's personality and is a perfect model in which every Red Cross branch should strive for. Its a shame to hear their jobs will be terminated and its especially devastating to hear, from the CEO of the chapter, that they don't even have a plan in place yet.

3. How much money did the "Trail of Terror" donate to the our branch of the American Red Cross last year and since you started it?

Last year we donated over $100,000 and since we started over half a million dollars.

4. Any comments you might have in addition.

Andrea always wanted to see that the clients needs were a priority and did the best she could to fulfill them. I was always amazed at how well her staff worked together and knew each others roll so the tasks got done right. From the time a client walked through the door to the time they left that branch their needs were met by smiling faces and with the upmost respect. Since I received the news about the branch closing and the staff loosing their jobs I have had a real hard time working on the Trail, it will never be the same.

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In Tribute: Lessons Learned from My Dad, Bill Jenkins
By Jennifer Jenkins

It�s been nearly 16 years since my Dad�s passing, and there�s not a day that goes by that I don�t think of him and wish he were sitting across me at the dinner table eating his favorite dish, mashed potatoes; singing along, although out of tune, with his beloved Roy Orbison records; talking seriously to his customers over the phone, all the while standing in his striped flannel pajamas; opening the freezer door to sneak a late night snack of Edy�s frozen yogurt for him and my Dog, Frisky; or dancing the jitterbug with a big smile on his face. When you grow older, you realize the impact your parents have on your life. In the case of my Dad, he left an enormous impact as a result of the valuable lessons he taught me along the way.

I know my Dad would smile as I say that he became a teacher after all. He was not a teacher in the traditional sense. He didn�t even go to college, although he wanted to go and would have gone if the G.I. Bill had existed in 1955. He was more or less a teacher of life and of those values which make a person noble in character to those he touched throughout his life.

Reflecting back, I am enriched by all the wonderful lessons he taught throughout his lifetime here on Earth. I learned from him about love, kindness and compassion for others; the importance of family and friends and the sacrifices you make for the ones you love; nobility of character; and that life is to be enjoyed in spite of its ups and downs and how humor helps you ride its waves.

Most of all, I realize my Dad taught me the success of one�s life is not measured by the money or possessions acquired throughout one�s lifetime but by how loved one is. I can honestly say that my Dad was a good man loved by all who knew him. This was evidenced, to my deep astonishment, by all who attended his funeral, including those who traveled quite a distance to pay their respects. He was and is very much loved, especially by me.

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�Maggie�s Corner�
�Like Father, Like Daughter�
By: Maggie Griffin

Since as far back as I can remember, my Father was a man I always looked up to. Many knew him as a business man, a politician, a Fire Commissioner, a Police Commissioner and a member of several clubs and leader of local chapters of non-profit organizations. Many knew him as a Brother out of 10 siblings, an Uncle, a cousin a friend. But now I am going to tell you how he was as my Dad.

My Dad, Domenic �Dom� DellaRocco was born May 29th, 1929 to Lucy Longabardi and Salvatore DellaRocco. He was very close to his parents, was raised to know what respect is, working hard, keeping dignity and morals. He helped everyone and anyone in need. I was born May 24th 1969, and here I am, writing about my Dad when he was turning my age when I was born. He always said �They broke the mold when you were born�. He wasn�t kidding because I am just like him, so I guess it is safe to say I was born in his mold.

He taught me to swim in a Lake. He taught me to dive. I remember wearing a life jacket because he always wanted me to be safe. I use to love it when he would swing me and throw me in the water. �Daddy, Daddy�do that again! He taught me how to ride a bike, he constantly was going with the camera, capturing every moment in my life. He taught me so much which lead me to who I am today.

I remember when I was about five years old and my Dad had Lung Cancer. Back then, hospital rules were a little different. Half of one of his lungs had to be removed. So one time my Mother took me to the hospital to try to get me to see my Dad. Given the age I was, at that time, the hospital wouldn�t allow me to visit him in his hospital room. Over hearing a nurse tell my Mother �your child is too young, we cannot allow her to visit him in his hospital room, I am Sorry�. Well, I guess I inherited my Dad�s strong will at that moment. So here I am at 5 years of age and I actually told that nurse, �You are not going to stop me from seeing my Dad�; and I ran down that hall looking in every room for my Dad as my Mom was chasing after me. I found and saw my Dad. When he finally came home, it was important to me to make sure my Dad was always ok, so I followed him constantly. He survived lung cancer.

I remember when he took me to a car show and I got to see the original car that was in the movie �Grease�. I really thought it was capable of flying after seeing the movie. But that wasn�t the first movie I saw with my Dad. The very first movie I saw with my Dad was at the old Strand Theatre in Hamden and it was �King Kong�. I was about six years old at that time.

We went to so many places, we had so many talks, and my Dad was the one who raised me to be honest. My Mother, she focused on my older siblings and pretty much forgot I existed, yet I love my Mother and will never let anyone speak poorly about her, another thing my Dad taught me. That�s why I am so much like him; he took me under his wing and taught me respect, regardless. Example was when those famous Rabbit Fur Coats back in the late 70�s, early 80�s came out, my Mother bought for my sisters, but not me. It hurt; I was about 11 years old. So my Dad took me to a store at the Hamden Plaza and bought me a Rabbit Fur Coat, better than the ones my sisters got. I was proud to wear it because it made me feel that my Dad wanted to buy me my coat. Funny, my Dad made sure I wore the best wedding gown on my wedding day too. Being the youngest and the last to get married, as I danced the Father and Daughter dance to the song, �You�re Daddy�s Little Girl�, he was singing it to me too. At the end of the song, he whispered in my ear something that made me cry. He whispered �You are my youngest, my baby, and you are Daddy�s real little girl, remember that.�

Just like my Dad, I battled cancer at a young age, and just like me, my kids insisted to visit me in the hospital. My Dad was there every day. I saw his tears of worry. I told him at that time, �It�s ok Dad, I am just like you. You proved your doctors wrong when you had lung cancer; I am going to do the same thing and prove my doctors wrong�. Then he smiled and being the comedian he was, he said to me, �That�s right, because I got news for you; Heaven don�t want you and Hell is afraid you�ll take over�. I laughed so hard, I had to press that morphine button twice in less than a second.

But let�s go back into my teen years, every time I would get in �trouble� in school, my Mother would know, but say �Don�t let your father know, you�ll give him a heart attack�. I heard that phrase from my Mother all my life. Little did she know, he knew every stunt I pulled, and guess what, he never had a heart attack when he found out, but he always made sure he had a talk with me about whatever it is, good or bad, without my Mother present.

He believed making one mistake is ok, but learn from the mistake; don�t repeat the same mistake twice. I heard that a little over 100 times in the 4 years of high school. The good news is I didn�t repeat the same mistake twice. Responsibility, be responsible, Dad would always preach.

I am now turning 15, learning to drive with a driver�s permit and looking forward to getting my driver�s license. I am being responsible, on the road with a driver�s permit and Dad teaching me. On my 16th birthday, my Dad decided to take me for my driver�s test, written and on the road, to DMV, with the Camero. I was like �YES!� Then I was more excited after I passed and received my first CT State Driver�s license, 24 years ago, with that dreadful and big yellow �Y� on it.

So Dad let me drive home from the DMV, in the Camero. I did perfect until I took a right turn on Sanford Street and turned right onto the side walk. My luck, at that time he was the Police Commissioner. He said �Stop the Car!� So I did and in my mind I was �oh no�. Then Dad said move over to the passenger side. So he gets out getting in the driver�s side and then said, �Now Give Me Your Driver�s License�. He never gave me back my license until I passed his driving test and showed responsibility driving a car rather than being a show off. It took about a year. But at least I didn�t give him a �heart attack� like my Mom always would repeat.

Later in life, when I became a mother, he came with me for my last ultra sound, just 3 days before my first child was born. Here I wanted to be surprised, but he had to know if I was having a boy or a girl. So I finally caved in and said, ok what am I having? The technician said, �Mrs. Griffin, you are having a girl�. I never saw a smile so big, ear to ear, on my Dad�s face when he heard that, I was just waiting for what was going to come out of his mouth. Sure enough, he laughed and had to say �I hope your daughter does to you what you did to me�. I told my Dad, �Please don�t say that, you�ll give me a heart attack�. Today, my daughter does do what I did to him. My son, I don�t know how or where he gets this from, but when my daughter gets in trouble, my son will say to her; �Don�t tell Dad, you�ll give him a heart attack�. I recently had to finally ask my son, �Have you been talking to Grand Ma?�

What was nice was my Mother always would think my Dad never knew what I did, whether it was good or bad. The fact is, he did by taking the time everyday to talk to me. Every time she would say that phrase over and over �Don�t tell your Father, you�ll give him a heart attack�, I�d cringe because the truth is, my Dad knew when I was guilty, worried, happy or hurt about something just by looking in my eyes. When that would happen, he would tell me, �Ok, tell me what happened or what is on your mind�. Let it be known that being honest with my Dad since I can go as far back as I can remember, I realized my Dad was once my age and probably seen and did it all. Knowing this, he did not want me to repeat any of his mistakes.

He taught me being honest with him all the time and by doing so, honestly with my Dad will give me dignity when I get older, and he was right. He taught me to put my feelings and thoughts in words so I don�t run into conflicts, he was right. He taught me that it is ok to feel hurt when someone may humiliate me because humiliation leads into humanity, he was right. And most of all, he taught me to always be prepared to defend myself, never throw the first punch, but make sure you throw the last, he was right on that too because in the real world, we need to know self-defense.

He isn�t with me today physically, but he is in spirit. For example, recently I found out news within �the family tree� that wasn�t pleasant for me to hear. And I know that if my Dad was still alive, he wouldn�t be too pleased either because of what his definition of responsibility is. So of course I go visit my Dad at the cemetery and told him. Then I was happy to say, �You know what, I told Dad and he didn�t have a heart attack�. But this news, like my Dad use to say to me when I was always honest with him growing up, he would say; �Thank God you didn�t tell your Mother, this would make her roll over in her grave�. My Dad knew all along that my Mother would say �Don�t tell your Father, you�ll give him a heart attack�.

There is so much more I can write about my Dad, but I am limited on words. To me, he was more than a Father, he was an incredible Dad. He never forgot me or my children and I will never forget him, he still lives in me. Every time I take his Formula for a drive, a car I was given after he passed away, a car that was his; I know he is sitting in that passenger seat because somehow I can hear him say to me; �Be careful when you turn so you don�t drive on the sidewalk�.

Father�s be good to your daughters, someday they�ll be like you too. Daughters who become Mothers will understand Mothers have Fathers, so Mothers be good to your Daughters too.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

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DEAR HOUSEWIVES

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 andwe will answer it in the next issue.June and Flora

Dear Housewives,I have a hard time staying organized with my home. For instance, I have a hall coat closet that has shoes tossed in, scarves on the floor. Help me! Motivate me ladies. Thanks.I love my housewives in Meriden
FLORA: For me, a task like yours seem so daunting but once I complete it, I wonder, what took me so long! Look at your calendar and schedule your closet cleaning as you would any other appointment. Your question reminds me that I too have a closet to tackle!
JUNE: There are so many items on the market to help you organize. Start by measuring the area. Then go to the store and see what items suit your needs. You can get some shelves or shoe cubbies on the bottom and shelves above. Most are fairly economical and will help you organize your life.

Dear Housewives,It is the time of year where bugs come out to play. Unfortunately, I have ants in my house. I don't want to spray because I have babies in the house. What can I do to get rid of these pests? Ant eater in Meriden
JUNE: Almost everyone gets this problem at some time. I believe there are child friendly sprays that can be used. I do know you can buy ant traps or poison houses at the store which are safe for kids. I wouldn't let them play with them but the poison is on the inside. Also, be sure to not leave any crumbs around. This will attract the little buggers.
FLORA: Prevention is key. Eat at your table and no where else in the house. Clean up immediately after cooking. As for the ants, unless it's an infestation, I would just smush them all.

JUNE: Do you remember the movie "Who framed Roger Rabbit?"? This movie was out in the 1990's I think. You may not have even seen it yet Flora (haha). Well, anyway, I got it for the kids and they really liked it. Point being, rent some of the older kids movies--your kids will like them. My older son really liked "Hook" with Robin Williams and Julia Roberts.
FLORA: I did not see "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?". Stop laughing. And I have not seen "Hook" yet either. But....I fully agree with you on renting some older films for children. Remember that PG, back in the day, is different from today's PG.

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It is with great pride that we tell you a little about our father, Norman Marchione. To us, he is a hero.

At the age of 21 he went off to WWII and fought throughout Europe. He was part of the 157th battalion, 45th division. He took pleasure in helping his buddies and would try to keep them out of trouble. He even did their KP so they could go into town and have fun. His purple heart was earned with a gunshot wound while fighting in Alsace Lorraine; which was followed by returning to the front and later participating in the liberation of Dachau. He loved his buddies and the people in the countries he met and to this day he is deeply saddened by the losses and the atrocities that he witnessed.

When he finally came home, he married and started searching for a career � he wanted to continue to serve and help other people. He eventually found that opportunity as a police officer in Pittsburgh, Pa. He shares his stories with everyone that will listen because he enjoyed his work and enjoys the memories. The roles of detective and later Police Sergeant provided him with a broad range of experiences that fall under �protect and serve�. His favorite stories include giving a little elderly woman who came into the station a dollar to take the bus home; allowing lonely or homeless people to sit in the station during the night (and frustrating the officer on the next shift); delivering babies; taking care of his fellow officers when they were discouraged,; talking people out of jumping off bridges, using ingenious approaches to solving criminal cases, and guarding three Presidents of the United States as well as numerous celebrities. Although there were rock stars, athletes, and many famous entertainers, Sammy Davis Jr is talked about most frequently because he and his uncles were down to earth and treated my father like he was one of the family. When he was asked recently �what was your best memory while being on the police force?�, he simply replied �having that many opportunities to help people, and let them know that someone cares about what is happening to them.�

Although our father was dedicated to his work, he never forgot our family. We would go for little car rides and get snow cones or popcorn. We were the only ones in our neighborhood to make it to the seashore before we reached 16. Of course, there�s always the story about being marooned in Virginia Beach when our car died and there was no money to get home � but our Dad took care of it and eventually we got home. He coached his son Norman�s baseball team and went to his college basketball games. Dad was filled with pride regarding his son�s athletic accomplishments and felt he could have become a professional. He saw him through some very rough times which contributed to his son�s ability to turn his life around. All the guys in the neighborhood knew Mr. Marchione and remember him to this day when he visits the neighborhood.

Of course there was always time for his daughter Karen � nothing like a father-daughter relationship. On one of their visits to the zoo, when she was 5 years old, she was bitten by a mouse and they shared the excitement of a visit to the hospital and a tiny article in the newspaper. Norm was the official chauffeur and chaperone for his daughter�s activities through elementary and high school. He waited patiently for her after each event � as well as all the other girls that she promised to ride home. He relished the frightening effect that being a police officer had on his daughter�s dates as they came to pick her up. He even chaperoned her prom and cut in on her date to float her around the floor � he was always a fantastic dancer. When she left home, he saw many other parts of the country in order to visit her, and continued to share new adventures and create new memories.

Our parent�s marriage, like most, had its ups and downs. However, in 1985, when our mother ended up disabled from an aneurysm in a nursing home; our father visited and cared for her for 15 years. He succeeded in making her laugh and feel very special in addition to overseeing her care. It has been important to him to make sure that we were all �alright� and ensured that each of his children had a home to call our own.

Our father always loves to make people smile. He says hello to everyone and is always ready to give a compliment on an accomplishment or effort of a stranger as well as taking a moment to catch a woman�s eye and tell her how lovely she is. He enjoys babies, children and animals and for some reason, they all respond positively to him. We remember bringing stray dogs home and leaving them there to greet him in the evening so that we could pick one and find homes for the rest. We brought everything home from toads, rabbits, chickens, birds, cats and dogs � it was always alright with him.

He is 86 now and lives with his daughter, 2 dogs and 3 cats. We feel blessed that he is our father. All through his life he has worked to take care of us and everyone he knew.
He is �THE BEST! Happy Father�s Day Norman Marchione!

This is about my dad Joseph Tkacz Sr.
Dad worked hard all his life and enjoyed Hunting and Fishing, He enjoyed going to the Meriden Rod and Gun Club, Especially duringfishing season, He, till this day finds time for his family, especiallyhis grand children.

He has a great Grand daughter now, and he loves to spend time with her.Family keeps him going, He loves a good party and gathering,My brother and I have good memories growing up. It wasn't pictureperfect but the love was there.

Dad is a survivor. He has over come so many health issues, It is thefamily moments that keep him going, We call him the ever ready bunny, We will be celebrating his birthday in August, He will be thrilled at aBirthday party in his honor.. Once again he is all about family and hiswife of 66 years, She takes good care of him and she deserves a medalherself, She puts our needs ahead of her own. Our family circle consistsof, Carmel , his wife, Joe Jr. and his wife Barb, Deb Belancik andhusband Benjamin, grand children, Joey the 3rd and his wife Patty,Brian, Tiffany, Ben and Laura , his great grand daughter Josselyn Tkacz(named after the rest of the Joes')
Deb Belancik
70 hidden Pines Circle,
Meriden Ct..

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Marion Calvert
A Self-made Man
by Janet Althouse

My dad was a very special man. Of course, all little girls, and big ones, think their dads are special. But mine really was. He had, what I thought, was an unusual name. Marion Calvert, but everyone called him "Cal". He was a "self-made man". Anything he wanted to learn how to do he just taught himself. So, maybe you could say he was a "self-taught man". He taught himself how to play the piano and then taught himself how to tune that piano. He had a lot of natural abilities and talents. He could paint pictures, but also painted houses. He had artistic talent, but studied and enlarged on that talent and became better at it. He made money painting houses, but never any money at painting pictures. One time he painted the portraits of the children of an optician in exchange for glasses, since we didn't always have a lot of money. He painted two large pictures of "Christ in Gethsemane". One in pastels, one in oils and gave both of them to churches. He could also make signs and do lettering and had the ability to put gold leaf on those letters. They don't make signs like that anymore. I remember when he did signs for the local Fire Department but instead of charging them, he took his pay in tickets for chances on the refrigerator they were raffling off and HE WON!! He could do remodeling; build cabinets and closets; put in windows and doors. He put a bathroom in our house when we had only the now obsolete outhouse. Even did the plumbing and the wiring. He earned a living doing dry wall and did it so well that you could not find any seams, try as you might. But my dad was not just about talents, but was a genuinely nice person. Always willing to help someone. He did not know what prejudice was. He was a God-fearing man and believed in following the Biblical teachings, as best he could. AND he made great pancakes. When my mother had to be away he would whip up pancakes for us for supper. Yum! I only remember him ever just once punishing me and that was because I would not be quiet in church. He took me outside and laid a couple well-placed whacks on my bottom. I kept quiet after that. Usually when I did something wrong, he would take me aside and explain why what I did was not a good thing and told me to not do it again. Most of the time I took his words to heart. But, sad to say, he was not a part of my life after I married and had children. He and my mother divorced and his new wife was very jealous. She did not like for him to spend time with me, especially if my mother was around. He did come and help us with some finishing work on the house my husband and I built. He taught my husband how to do mitering. My husband went on to make many, many picture frames and he had never been very handy with projects like that before. But - when my oldest daughter got married, he came to the wedding and stayed a little while for the reception. (His wife sat in the car.) Long enough to dance with his grand daughter. That is one of daughter's treasured memories. We did visit him and his wife on occasion, but she did not make us feel welcome so they were not long visits and not really happy ones. He often wrote me letters. Maybe that's where I get my love of writing to people. I never doubted that he loved me and I still have those letters. One regret I have is that we did not get more of the pictures he painted. His wife had five children and several grand children. (They got most of the paintings.) Being the kind man that he was he became "grampy" to those step grand children and my children barely knew him. My two youngest just vaguely remember him. But my son has inherited his ability to do just about anything he puts his hand to, just like my dad. When he died the only thing I got was a putty knife and a pool table with a broken leg. I still have both and it's been 24 years. But I have the memories and the letters, and a couple pictures he painted. And he was MY dad and nobody else's, because I am an only child.

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
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Bobbie�s Bevy of Beauties

The bulbed flowers are gone and most of the trees, shrubs and bushes have given a beautiful display. Our lilacs and rhododendrons were exceptional this year. When I wrote last months article it looked like the perennials were dormant but what a difference now. Don�t remember the hibiscus and Helena being this height until around the middle of June. My foxglove, yarrow, four o�clocks, campanula, rose of campione, lilies, liatris and lambs ear have begun to bud. Was surprised to see that the darker leaf lambs ear doesn�t produce flowers where the lighter leaf one does. Also the callas and dahlias have pushed their way up. Perennials I have that are in bloom now are the columbine, bachelor button, yellow loose strife, coral bells, mini white carnations, evening primrose, knautia and the simplicity pink rose.

A few years back the annuals were all planted by the end of April. Same with the veggies. What a change in the spring weather. Now one has to wait until the middle of May or even longer. Wouldn�t want to chance an early planting with some of the very cool weather we had. Or protecting the plants by covering them is a pain in the �xxx�. Finally made my usual many trips to the nurseries and purchased just about all the annuals that were on my list. Which needless to say was a very long one. A planter or two plus the two small rock garden beds where the two huge pine trees once grew should just about end the digging and planting for this year. The weeds are another story. They just keep a coming. As I have mentioned many times the short brown leaf begonia is probably #1 on my list of annuals. Three other favorites are the lavender lace with tiny orchid flowers and totally tempted with small red blooms. Both also very short, plants but spread to a very nice width. So one plant can cover a good deal of ground. The third one is the black and blue salvia. Black buds which turn to royal blue flowers. They can grow up to four inches tall. These three will continually bloom until the cold weather returns. The pint size container usually ranges about $4.50. A little pricey but well worth it. Give them a try. Bet you�ll like them.

Fuchsia now comes in an upright plant. Found two varieties last year and was very pleased with them. The flowers are the same shape and color as those in the hanging pots. This year discovered an orange one. Looks entirely different from the other two. Planted the three in a container. They basically are a shade plant. So far so good. Maybe some of you would like to give these a try to.

Jimmy decided to give his veggie garden a rest this year. So his big boy tomato plants are in the tubs. Three were reserved for the cukes. They are all doing very well.
T
hink I covered just about everything I wanted to write about. Nothing left but a good bye for now.

Flowercerely yours,
Bobbie G. Vosgien

Congratulations to our next door neighbors Courtney and Matt on the birth of their first child on Wednesday, May 27, 2009. A beautiful little girl whose name is Anna Grace.

P.S. Dear Izzy-Bella, what a great performance you gave doing ballet and hip hop at the YMCA children�s spring dance on May 30th. Love, Grammie Bobbie and Gump Jimmy

P.S.S. Happy 21st Anniversary June 11th to Jodie and John. Love Mom �Greta� and Dad

P.S.S.S. Happy Birthday on June 29th to J.W.V. �T.G.� � Love, Bob

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

Mother's Day Poem

Life What's It about

Life is like a roller coaster.
One day your up,
the next your down.

Life is like a roller coaster.
One day your happy and dancing,
the next your sad and crying.

Life is like a roller coaster,
You have good times with your friends,
then you bad times with your family.

Life is like a roller coaster.
You have to try to stay up on the top,
let the good times last.
Don't let something get in your way.
'Cause then your back down again.

Life is like a roller coaster.
You do many things to stay up.
Then if you make a mistake,
you go down.

Life is like a roller coaster.
God is helping you stay up with him.
You just need to do the right things to stay with him.

Life is like a roller coaster.
So, what are you doing to
Stay up with God?
I know I am doing
the right things with my
life. THINK POSITIVE! Stay Positive.

Love God all they way & stay with him.

Happy Mother's Day MOM!

Love Always!
Rachel

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One may think that choosing a paint finish is just as hard as choosing a color, but it doesn't have to be. Below is a list of basic finishes along with each benefit the finish or sheen has.

by Kimberley Linstruth-Beckom

Home Improvement can be exciting because it allows the homeowner to change their surroundings. Painting a room is one of the easiest home improvements to do because it doesn't involve a lot of power tools and it can either make a big impact for your room d�cor, or it can make your head spin due to all the choices out there. Choosing a paint finish for your interior or exterior project, however, should not have to be the hard part.

Each paint finish has a benefit to it and not every finish is beneficial for every room. One may think that choosing a finish is just as hard as choosing a color, but it really doesn't have to be if you follow a basic rule of thumb. Below are the most common finishes you will find in any paint store with its benefits.
Every store that carries paint will have three to four basic finishes or sheen. They are flat, satin (or eggshell), semi-gloss, and gloss. Each one has some pros and cons.

Flat paint has no sheen to it. The lack of sheen will hide imperfections like dents, dings, or repaired holes. It is the least washable and would not be a good choice for a room that gets a lot of use because spills, fingerprints, and other kinds of marks would be difficult to remove.

Satin, or what's often called Eggshell paint, has a slight sheen. It is more washable than a flat paint and will remove marks more easily. It is not as shiny a sheen as a semi-gloss or a gloss, so it will hide some imperfections, but only when a light isn't shining on it. Satin would be an ideal choice for a bedroom, living room, or a dining room because these walls do not typically need a scrub down from dirty hands, grease, or other types of marks.

A semi-gloss paint is meant for walls that take a beating when it comes to marks like grease, mold, mildew, crayon, fingerprints, food splatter, and any other type of mark that may be hard to remove. This sheen is great for rooms like a playroom, kitchen, and bathroom because the walls can be easily cleaned.
Gloss paint is the shiniest of all sheen. It is the most durable and the easiest of all the paints to clean. This paint is best for small projects like a chest of drawers, kitchen tables, or cabinets that will need extra cleaning care. It will not hide imperfections, however, and must be applied when the weather is not humid to prevent the paint �sticking� to itself on cabinet doors or drawers.

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FATHERS AND SONS AND THE VOLUNTEER ETHIC

By Phyllis S. Donovan

We grew up as part of a generation with a strong volunteer ethic. Granted, for young mothers of that era of stay-at-home housewives, volunteerism was a chance to leave the kids with their Dads and get out for awhile with women our own age with a shared mission of contributing to the community.

In those days, the Meriden Junior Woman�s Club, for instance, had to limit its membership to 125 so many women wanted to join, and that was only one of the organizations in which young people could offer their time and talent.

My husband, too, was an unabashed volunteer, spending his time hosting radio programs on area stations such as the old WBMI and WATR and handling state political and governmental affairs programs for CPTV, later MCing innumerable CPTV Auctions on air for many years.
Nowadays, young parents don�t have as much time for volunteering as they are even busier than we were trying to earn a living in the current economy with wives more likely than not right out there in the workplace with their spouses.

Still, our sons find time to spend with their own children as volunteers in organizations that enrich their lives. One son has been a Little League coach for two of his sons� teams, even when his job took him as far afield as Japan and England. With the emphasis on good sportsmanship and just having fun, the boys seem happier and more grounded than in an earlier time when the emphasis was on winning at all cost. Teaching youngsters good values through sports is, to my way of thinking, an admirable goal.

Another of our sons has a 12-year-old boy chose to join a Boy Scout Troop whose emphasis was more on community service and learning outdoor skills than an alternate, more sedentary group. Why? �Because I�m a Troop 177 kind of guy,� he told us proudly. This means, though, as one of the active troop chaperones, our son, who was never one to espouse the great outdoors, has found himself going on troop hikes and sleepovers in the woods. Even in the winter, the troop camped out at Sleeping Giant Park. Sometimes they have cabin-like structures to sleep in, other times just tents. �But the meals are great,� our son says. Many of the mothers make desserts and pasta dishes to send along for the campers to heat up so they aren�t just eating the same old hot dog-hamburg-s�mores fare.

Our daughter�s husband is another great sportsman and outdoors person who is happy roaming the woods and fishing the streams of Connecticut. Since they only have one 13-year-old daughter, he has taught her to take pride in being an expert fisherperson. No kidding, she really enjoys pitting her fishing skills against her Dad�s mostly along area streams. (She leaves the ocean fishing to him.)

As a family, they participate in the Connecticut State Parks� annual summer Park Pursuit, sponsored by the Connecticut DEP. Families compete every weekend at different parks to hone their outdoor skills such as canoeing, camping, hiking, biking and orienteering. Last year, the emphasis was on ecology and the environment. This year, with the concentration on �geo cache� projects, they�ve been checking out natural formations such as kettleholes and dinosaur tracks.

When our youngest son and his family moved from a Manhattan apartment into a home in one of Connecticut�s more family-oriented communities, they fell right into exposing their two youngsters, ages 4 and 6, to a permanent �country fix.� As family projects, they enlarged their back lawn which was bordered by woods they owned, planted daffodil bulbs throughout the property and competed in jack-o-lantern making competitions.

They enrolled the kids in everything from ice skating lessons to swimming, t-ball and soccer classes and were right there to watch their progress. If volunteering begins at home, they have devoted hours to enhancing their little ones� skills including teaching them the pleasure of reading and complexities of chess.

I firmly believe that the love and respect for a father grows out of that father�s involvement and attention to nurturing and enhancing the lives of their children. By the looks of things, our grandchildren are well on their way to an enduring appreciation of their fathers that will last a lifetime.

My bond with my own father lasted that long and beyond. (He would have been 108 this month and I still fondly remember the many ways in which he helped to shape my life.)

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

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The Reluctant Warrior�.
By Ernie Larsen

Just a week ago we received a call from my wife�s sister to let us know that their Uncle Bob had just passed away; their cousin called Jane and said Bob had simply fallen asleep and died. At 94 years his mind was still functioning quite well; his physical being was precarious and finally was his Waterloo.

This ended what had been a life that others would have had a difficult time emulating. While his journey into another existence was not unexpected it certainly has left a void in his family that will be difficult to fill; Uncle Bob was unlike any other person I have met in my 64 years. He and his brother, my father-in-law were best friends and both towered over me and at 6�1� that was something. Both had booming voices and when I first met them my wife will tell you that I was afraid of them both. Maybe so, but after I got to know them, Bill Luby, unfortunately for such a short time and Bob Luby for the better part of 42 years I quickly learned how to react to them and when Bob used to stop on his Saturday visits there was always something to talk about and if you had nothing to say, never fear, Bob always had a topic or two under his bonnet.

To say Bob led a long, productive and very interesting life would certainly qualify as understatement; he would have celebrated his 95th birthday today, just a day after his funeral. And that�s just the beginning of this tale of a citizen soldier, lawyer and community benefactor and certainly one of the outstanding members of the Greatest Generation.

Bob Luby came from a family where hard work and education were key; he did all the right things, a scholar athlete at both Meriden High School and College of the Holy Cross, Yale College then Yale Law School. His law practice in Meriden was just getting off the ground when the hostilities of WWII had become such that he felt the call to arms and the needs of his country; enlisting in the US Army as a private. His future in the service was to be one of subtle accomplishment. He rose in rank and responsibility in the Army�s 3rd Engineering Battalion, participating in numerous amphibious landings, he being in the first wave, usually the riskiest of positions - yet he came away virtually unscathed, physically, the emotional side of it all was a different story. Then drawing on his legal background, the brass chose him to be one of those who organized military governments on the Japanese mainland. And for all he accomplished this lowly recruit/private ended his Army career a Lieutenant Colonel and being the person he was, not looking for any recognition, all of this went unheralded back in the States. He did tell a couple of war stories to the family and you could tell he was uncomfortable about it and unfortunately so much was left unsaid � including his accomplishments other than combat. His law partner for many years, Gary Olson, in his eloquent eulogy at Bob�s funeral mass, related a story that he and Dennis Gaffney, another law partner, gleaned from Bob, probably at one of their daily lunches at Fischer�s Deli. It involved an incident 5 days or so after the second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki and Japan had surrendered. The higher ups ordered Bob to select an officer and two non-coms to head to Hokkaido, the northernmost island of the country of Japan to take over a girl�s school which was to be used for the incoming military government. Well, being the kind of officer he was, Bob Luby volunteered to be the officer and I would imagine there were numerous sergeants who wished to accompany him. This was a very risky operation; some considered it a suicide mission, not knowing how the civilian population would react to 3 US soldiers coming to commandeer some property. The trio was armed only with side arms and it was unknown if word of the surrender had reached the outskirts of the country. Well, it all worked out, the civilian populace was loyal to their Emperor and took heed of his exhortation to comply with anything the occupying forces requested.

So that was Bob Luby, the soldier, when I first met him in 1967 I really didn�t know what to think of him. I certainly was intimidated, he was taller than me, more outspoken, back then I was sort of reserved, not the bubbling personality I am today.

When Mary and I announced our wedding plans Uncle Bob offered to be a surrogate for Mary�s parents in planning for the wedding, suggesting a reception site and other details � he wanted us to have what we would have if Dot and Bill Luby were still with us; quite generous to a fault and he wished no special recognition � that was Bob Luby.

And then the rest of his family; Aunt Ruth whom I mentored when she took a course in photography in her pursuit of a degree in Art, cousin Deb the scholar, as I thought of her, cousin Tom who nicknamed me Ernesto Che (after Fidel Castro�s trusted lieutenant Che Guevara) and still calls me that to this day; cousin Bobby, well I guess I should say Bob who also got the photography bug back in the 70�s. I�m glad he went Nikon � great choice; based on all the photo albums and snapshots at Bob�s services perhaps my influence rubbed off � or so I like to think.

We spent a few holidays with them, the most memorable was, well not exactly a holiday, it was Bob�s 75th birthday. We drove up the drive on Westfield Road and here were Tom and Bobby assembling a grill � it was their gift to their father. Uncle Bob was acting as foreman and encouraging his sons as only he could do. My brother and brother-in-law ambled over to see if we could be of assistance and noticed, without even looking at the directions, they were going about the whole set up �backwards. So, we suggested they let us finish the job as they informed us this would be the main cooking source for the party and there were about 50 hungry people waiting for food. So we took it apart and got it together and 30 minutes later the burgers were sizzling.

My wife has a bunch of stories about Bob, I guess the one I�ve heard the most is when he would pick up her up after a long day at the office to go down �to the beach� the Luby cottage in Madison � she said he drove with reckless abandon, his head would bob as if he were going to fall asleep and she said she would loudly say �Uncle Bob� and he would acknowledge �waking up� as it were and then keeping his eyes on the road � this was almost a weekly thing and from what his family relates, his driving skills were like his golf game � never really improving � leaving a lot to be desired.

Bob was also an avid sports fan � he especially enjoyed and supported Yale football as a former player himself. Several years ago when Holy Cross was opposing Yale at the Yale Bowl in New Haven, my son Kevin, an HC Alumnus, Mary and I traveled down to the game. We were having a mini-tailgate party interacting with the group parked next to us when I looked across the parking lot and lo and behold here�s Uncle Bob ambling toward the Bowl; by himself, he drove down from Meriden to take in the game, something he said he did for almost every home game. We invited him over and sat with him during the drubbing that the Eli�s gave the Crusaders. After the game Bob did not dwell on Yale�s victory � he was very diplomatic about it after all he started his college career at the Cross. Bob�s brother Bill was also an HC alumnus as were my son and my sister in law�s son. Cousin Tom took a degree from Yale so there is a lot of history with those two schools. Later that year the Crusaders got their revenge on the basketball court so I guess it came out even.

Uncle Bob�s interest in sports continued with his regular presence at his grandchildren�s sporting activities. It was easy to pick him out � he usually was the tallest one on the sidelines. And I�m sure when the girls came off the court, field or horse ring he would greet them with his ubiquitous �Good job, kid!�

His later years he became less mobile; however he was still driving, much to the chagrin of his family until a couple of years ago. His mind was still in full gear and he would carry on a conversation on current events, history, sports almost any subject. A voracious reader � he always had a novel, biography or two at his chair side and once told me that reading and buying hardcover books was an investment. Well, I now realize that he was not talking 100% financial - the purchase also was an asset in learning. My wife and I still buy hardcover best sellers regularly and I�m sure Uncle Bob was an influence on the love for reading that exists in our family.

There is so much more I could say about Uncle Bob and the family � it was sad to lose him � his services were something he would have enjoyed � the touching tributes from his granddaughters and his long time law partner and good friend, his personal relationship with the clergy. The Antique Veteran�s presence was quite moving and a most deserving tribute to this accomplished citizen-soldier. Speaking with one of Bob�s friends at Bobby & Karen�s house later � she theorized that there probably wasn�t a dry eye in the group when the somber notes of Taps echoed over Sacred Heart cemetery.

In this issue�s tribute to father�s, Mary and I say so long to Uncle Bob, who assumed the role of surrogate father to us and our entire family - he certainly was more than an uncle � we thank him for stepping up to the plate for us and our families � we�ll certainly miss him!

And finally - Pax vobiscum Bob and no worries with me � I don�t ever think I�ve ever taken a wooden nickel

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

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Wait �til Your Father Gets Home

�Wait �til your father gets home,�
a statement
to instill fear, desperation.
and I hoped that the day
would never end,
that he�d never come home.
Many times he came tired, exhausted,
Too tired even to exchange
The smallest of attention, a kind word.
And time flies.
The bridge that separated us
Grew, longer and longer,
The wall thicker and thicker,
Then indifferences settled in.
Two men so close in blood,
So far apart,
Never having anything
To say to each other
You, the Master;
I the pawn.
Yet many times I wanted
To throw my arms around your neck.
It would have felt so good,
But such behavior is unmanly
And many things were left unsaid

Ah, mothers,
Don�t threaten your children!
Dad also wants to be a teddy bear,
The lion in the den
Playing with its cubs,
The bird who takes its youngsters to flight.

Home Country
Slim Randles

We drove up the mountain as far as Jasper Blankenship�s cabin, then walked in the remaining quarter mile to Steve�s newly built cabin. We all knew how important this mountain hideaway was to the semi-aging cowboy, and were prepared to ooh and aah in unison. A cabin, for a man who never had a home that he owned, is a big deal.

He�d been working on building the place since last fall. Finally, over coffee down at the Mule Barn, he said he was ready for visitors as long as we didn�t need anything more complicated than a cup of coffee and a chair.

We made a morning expedition of it. But when we came in sight of the log cabin hiding in the dense shade of the pines, we weren�t ready for what we found. Steve had built a turret on one corner. A turret. A little room �way up there.
We stared without speaking.
�Like my turret?� he said.
�Well,� said Doc, �it sure looks � well made.�
�You don�t think it�s pretty?�
�Sure we do!� said Herb. �It�s just ��
�Just what?�
�A � turret. You know. We weren�t expecting one.�
�You can go in it, but it only holds one at a time. Have to climb a ladder.�
�Me first,� said Dud, and went through the front door.
We all took our turns up in the turret. It had a chair next to an end table with magazines on it. There was a window on each wall. You could see half the world.
Doc finally climbed down the ladder and poured himself a coffee. �Got to tell you, Steve, I never had you figured for a turret man.�
Steve smiled into his coffee, then looked up. �If you guys each built a cabin exactly the way you wanted it � no women or anything in the planning � you know � wouldn�t you have a turret?�
We thought about that for minute, then � slowly, the supreme court of coffee drinkers began nodding collectively.
Then Dud said, �Mine would have a TV set ��
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Brought to you by Abe�s Motel and Fly Shop. See them at http://www.sanjuanriver.com/.

Protecting seniors against Crime
Submitted by Carol Carbutti � Comfort Keepers of Wallingford
Seniors are more vulnerable to certain crimes, but being observant, alert, and careful can reduce the opportunity for someone to take advantage of them. Although as people age, chances of being a crime victim decreases, using common sense precautions can reduce the risk that they may be subjected to. Crime prevention is everyone�s responsibility, and any crime or suspicious activity should be reported to law enforcement.
Be aware when you are at home

� Keep your doors locked at all times.
� Don�t hide keys; leave an extra set with a trusted neighbor, friend, or family.
� Lock windows and sliding doors.
� Never let strangers into your home. Ask for photo ID if needed, or call the company they represent.
� Put your lights on timers if you are going to be away, and/or turn on a radio.
� If you live alone, have a friend you can check in with to watch out for each other.
Be aware when you are out

� Don�t carry your wallet in your back pocket.
� Hold your purse close to your body; don�t dangle it.
� Don�t carry large amounts of cash.
� When riding the bus, train, or subway, sit close to the driver, or near an exit.
� Don�t go out alone - go with family or friends.
� Keep your car doors locked.
� When going to your car or entering your home, have your keys in hand.
� Avoid dark, deserted routes.
Be aware to protect your money

� Use direct deposit for your Social Security checks.
� Don�t show large sums of money when you are shopping.
� Don�t sign contracts unless you are sure it is for a legitimate reason.
� Don�t put your purse or wallet unattended on a counter when shopping.

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�Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective�
by
Gregory M. Simpson

A Wesleyan University student asked recently how I got involved in animal welfare. The answer was reflexive, �I adopted my first cat.�

The 1981 trip to the Connecticut Humane Society, one of the oldest humane societies in the country, is clear in my memory. A playful orange tabby, just a year old, grabbed my attention from one of the stainless steel cages and I was instantly engaged. �Are you going to adopt that one?� asked a young woman who added that she was looking for an orange tabby. �Yes,� I said, announcing my decision to adopt my first cat. �Yes, I am.�

Adopting �Cinnamon�, my most beloved cat ever, was indeed a day that changed my life and impacted how much of my free time would be spent from that day forward.

For the next 17 years, over half of my adult life, Cinnamon was my constant companion. To paraphrase the writer, Hillaire Belloc, she was my cat and I was her human. Disproving the myth that a cat is more attached to place than person, Cinnamon was content as long as she was with me, whether riding in the car, visiting relatives overnight, watching television, or sleeping on my bed.

The sad time came for Cinnamon�s inevitable passing. It was one of my saddest days and I still miss the unconditional love she brought into my life. Yet she taught me what Maude counseled Harold in the classic film, Harold and Maude, to �Go and love some more.� To that end, I have devoted an avocation to improving the lives of felines, including by adopting more strays whose paths have crossed mine.

Almost three decades have passed since adopting that first cat. I have played many roles in memory of Cinnamon, including serving on boards of directors for four Connecticut animal welfare organizations, and as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals, Inc.

After publishing dozens of letters to the editor through the years, in 2002 I began writing �Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective� columns for several newspapers, with the aim of providing humane education and advancing animal welfare. Membership in the Cat Writers� Association followed.

I have been at this a long time. I have testified at the State Capitol with the late Cleveland Amory, founder of Fund for Animals and have been in protests with Wayne Pacelle, President, and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States � when he was a Yale undergraduate! Some of the best in the field have trained me, including Bryan Kortis, executive director of Neighborhood Cats in New York City. I have mentored others and have been mentored myself by Ellen Perry Berkeley, author of Maverick Cats and board member of the national Alley Cat Allies. Having trapped, neutered and spayed, fund raised, placed animals in loving homes, coordinated volunteers, cleaned cages, and spent quality time with shelter cats awaiting homes, I was honored when chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S.

All of this was done for no compensation other than the unconditional love from one special cat � a cat that taught me that contentment comes from simplicity � the simplicity of loving, playing and living in the moment. As the sculptor, Rodin, aptly wrote, �The more simple we are, the more complete we become.�

Because of the love of that cat, I believe as an epithet in a pet cemetery reads, �O heaven will not heaven be, unless my cats are there to welcome me.� So, until we meet again, Cinnamon, I will fight the good fight to see that others like you get the same opportunities that each of us wants � to love and be loved, a good home, and the ability to live a life without pain and misery.

The Wesleyan University student wanted to know how I got started because she was looking to find her �passion�. I will be eternally grateful to one cat named Cinnamon who helped me find mine.

For the animals,

Gregory M. Simpson

Gregory Simpson�s animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers� Association.

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

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Meriden Humane Society

Andy,It's been very busy at the Meriden Humane Society and just when we think nothing else can happen, it does. Do you think you could put a word out to your readers for us?

Recently, we have had an influx of dogs and cats either being abandoned or dropped off at our door step. While this is not always uncommon, what is is the fact that most of them need immediate medical attention. People areletting these animals suffer, to the point where it is almost too late to help them. They are being left to die under peoples porches or abandoned on the streets, because people cannot financially take care of them.The Meriden Humane Society is currently in debt to its local veterinarians and cannot get treatment for these animals until these debts are paid. It pains me to tell you how sad this makes me feel. I hope that some of you could see it in your hearts to help us out at this time. You can't even imagine how frustrated we feel when we have to get an animal treatment and don't know where to go. Please, even if it's a few dollars, it will help a sick animal.You can send donations to the Meriden Humane Society, 311 Murdock Ave,Meriden, CT 06450 or call (203)238-3650 and see how you can help.Thank you with all of my heart,Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer

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Prohibition Days
By Dorothy Gonick

Growing up in the 1920�s and �30s during prohibition days, our values were influenced greatly by our parents and grandparents. Booze was abhorred by them. Mom and Grandma Adair belonged to the Woman�s Society of Christian Service and the WCTU (Women�s Christian Temperance Union).

This ink blotter was given out by the Hospital in Rochester, Minn. and used by my grandparents. We kids thought it was funny and had fun imagining liquor turning people�s heads into wooden ones. Before the 18th Amendment was passed, Grandpa Adair had once attended a lecture by Carrie Nation and acquired a mother-of-pearl hatchet-shaped pin. Carrie Nation was a dedicated fighter for prohibition of liquor and went from one tavern to another chopping up the bars with her hatchet while giving a fiery lecture to the patrons. As kids, we were awed by that story, admired that tiny pearl hatchet, and vowed never to touch liquor.

In 1933 when the states were given the choice of allowing liquor to be sold or not, Iowa chose to be a �dry� state and Missouri chose to be �wet�. Our Iowa farm�s southern boundary was on the Iowa/Missouri state line. Soon a Beer Shack was erected just over the state line and became a focal point for thirsty Iowans, judging by the license plates on cars passing by, some from 100 miles away. Cousin Maurice visited us each summer and remembers opening his bedroom windows for fresh air and hearing country music blasting away throughout the night.

There were times that motorists were out of gas or had slid off the road, they came knocking on our door asking for help, even in the middle of the night, which caused Dad to form a hatred for what liquor did to people and he began locking our doors after years of unconcern. Nevertheless on those mud-slicked roads, he would use his tractor or hitch a team of horses to extricate the car and send it on its way. He vowed never to patronize a place that served or sold liquor.

Years later on a family trip to Maine, Mom�s relatives invited us to an elegant restaurant for dinner. When we arrived, Dad noted that drinks were offered. He didn�t criticize us, but stuck to his vow and would not go in, but took his small grandson, Tommy, down the street to a Wimpy�s for hamburgers. Another time we remember happened while on a social visit when he was given a mug of beer. Not wanting to create an incident, he quietly poured it onto a potted fern. The host noticed his empty mug and promptly refilled it!

When liquor became available in Iowa, the Beer Shack was closed but was soon reopened to sell fireworks: something that Missouri allowed and Iowa did not. From fire-water to fire-works, and the traffic flowed on.

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Here�s an interesting postscript:

During World War II my fianc� was stationed in Germany and then served in the Military Government after the war ended. The U.S. Army Education Program was formed and servicemen were given the opportunity to enroll in classes at certain schools. Walt was accepted at the Bavarian State Brewery of St. Stephan (Weihenstephan) A&T School, where he achieved his brewmeister certificate. Dad may not have approved, but we weren�t chastised for it. After his discharge Walt returned to his pre-war occupation of soil scientist, which pleased the family I�m sure.

May 11. 2009 word count 573
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ROADSIDE LOVLINESS
By Dorothy Gonick

�Oh, look!� Mom exclaimed as we passed a clump of purple flowers along the roadside, as we came home from a shopping trip in Grant City. �Aren�t they lovely!� Later that afternoon, Dad surprised her with an armful of those lovely roadside flowers. Mom arranged the purple Liatrus flowers in a big crock on our front porch for everyone to enjoy.

All of nature pleased Mom and we 'caught� her delight in flowers, birds, weather and all it had to offer. The upside down feeding of Nuthatches and the brilliant orange of Orioles were a couple of her favorite birds to see. Queen Anne�s Lace was a weed that
enchanted her in summertime. It bloomed alongside the lovely blue Chicory plant
that Dad admired. It was such a favorite of his that when mowing along the roadside he skipped cutting it, and allowed the Chicory and Queen Anne�s Lace to bloom extravagantly.

The delight in all of nature and the love and concern they had for each other and for our family became implanted in each of us. Today the sight of Chicory and Queen Anne�s Lace blooming together along a roadside continues to warm our hearts with happy thoughts of Mom and Dad.

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KID�s Press
Slick 3
Hypnotized by Play Land

By: Brandon DiMichele

It has been 2 weeks since Jade and her mother had discovered that Slick was a girl.
Jade�s mother made a suggestion that they should change Slicks name, but Jade didn�t agree.
Jade�s father had come home from a business trip and was very excited about the great news, he decided to build a giant dog house in the back yard. Now the dogs don�t have to live on that ratty old dog bed they had.
They had made names for the puppies too, Erin, Jack, and Lauren, two boys and two girls.
While Jade was walking in the park she found a poster on a tree�

Come to�
Play land!
Where fun comes to life.

Play Land is a fun interactive place where children come to have fun. We have many games and rides. Totally free and you can have your birthday party here!

1752 Lakefield St. Stratford, Ct 06614 1-800-388-5555

�Wow! This place looks like fun! But I don�t know where 1752 Lakefield St. is.� Jade said sadly.
Jade slowly walked on the side walk with her head dangling. Without looking, she tripped and fell over.
As soon as she lifted up her head she gazed upon the tall building that said Play Land over the doorway.
She squealed, �PLAY LAND! I FOUND IT!� She climbed up and dashed into the building. She peered at all of the children playing games and rides.
She rushed to a game and instantly she was hypnotized in the coolness.
Meanwhile�

�Where is she!?!?� Jade�s mother shouted angrily. �She said she was going to be right back!�
�Don�t worry. I�ll go out and search for her with Slick. Maybe Slick can pick up her scent.� Jade�s dad told her.
They headed out the door and went to the park. When there, Slick picked up the scent. They galloped down the side walk until the reached Play Land.
They wandered inside and started seeking for Jade. Suddenly Slick started running in a direction. Jade�s dad followed and they found Jade.
�Jade! What are you doing?� Jade�s father shouted.
�I�m playing a�oh.� Jade said.
�Yeah, oh. You should have come to your mother and I before you came here!�
�Sorry.�
�C�mon. Let�s go home.�
�Ok.�
Jade, Jade�s dad, and Slick all walked home, had a great dinner, and went to bed.

The End

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Barb�s Family

Submitted by Alan Murphy
Foster Adoptive Mission

You may have seen her on her way to work or in a grocery store and noticed her friendly and welcoming smile. She may look a lot like one of your friends or neighbors. She might even look a bit like you. What sets her apart is that this woman, Barbara, has been a foster parent since 2002.

�I always knew I wanted to work with children,� Barbara explains. �And the 30 years I spent teaching special education were tremendously gratifying. Yet I always wanted to do more. Being a foster parent has allowed me to make more of an impact. Together with my family, I have been able to change the lives of children from all different backgrounds and a variety of circumstances. There are challenges, to be sure�as every foster parent will tell you�but the rewards have been beyond what I would ever have expected.�

There are currently 513,000 children in the foster care system in the United States, and there is a dire need for committed, caring adults willing to take these children into their homes over the short or longer term. In her seven years as a foster parent, Barbara and her husband have taken in 25 children for stays ranging
from a few days to nine months. They have adopted two of these children (one a toddler and the other a teenager), who are now a permanent part of a family that also includes Barbara�s two college-age biological sons and, at present, one additional foster child.

After having done this for seven years, Barbara tells us: �Now, I wish we had made the decision to start even earlier. Each one of these children has contributed to our home and family life in a special way.�

Barbara is especially grateful for the FAST program, which sends professionals into foster homes to help address the children�s unique needs. She tells us that the first few days of a placement can be especially trying, as children act out in different ways and can be particularly needy when first separated from a parent. FAST provides the information and support Barbara and her family need to make the transition as smooth as possible. �The reward is when the child begins to trust you,� Barbara says. �The first time he comes to you for comfort or she places her head on you. Those are the moments that make everything worthwhile�just knowing that you have created a safe and loving place for this youngster. For some of these children, the time they spend in our home is their first experience of a healthy, nurturing environment. We show them the sort of home life they deserve. And I don�t mean with regard to home size or material possessions; I mean having a place to live where everyone has your best interests at heart. A place where you know from one moment to the next what to expect and don�t have to live with fear or hunger or neglect.�

Barbara�s eyes light up as she speaks of a three-year-old currently in her care: �She is so bright and says the funniest things. She has been identified as gifted by the teachers at the nursery school she attends, which doesn�t surprise me at all. I�ve met with this little girl�s mother, and she has so much potential. We are all hoping she will be able to turn things around and be reunited with her child. Until then, she knows her child is in a loving home.�
The most difficult part of being a foster parent, according to Barbara, is seeing the children leave, especially when there is no contact afterwards. �It�s not possible to adopt every child,� Barbara says, �and of course we worry about the children after they�ve left our home. We just have to take comfort in the fact that, for as long as we had them, we loved them and gave them a stable, structured family life. Sometimes, we are able to keep track of a child when he or she leaves. One of the children was adopted by her grandparent, and we get together and talk on the phone often. It is such a joy to know this child is in a caring home and is being given a good chance for a healthy and happy life.

�
What makes an ideal foster parent? According to Barbara, there is no one formula other than enjoying children, being able to provide a loving home, and being willing to fight for what they need. Barbara considers foster parenting her calling and encourages others to join her in providing a temporary home for one or more of the thousands of local children in need.

Foster parenting is a commitment�and an opportunity to make a big difference in a child�s life. FAM (Foster Adoptive Mission) has presented this vignette of Barbara�s experiences as a foster parent in hopes of encouraging other caring adults to reach out to children in difficult circumstances. If you have any interest in becoming a foster parent, please call FAM today for more information. There is no obligation. Your timing couldn�t be better: May is National Foster Care Month. Please call FAM at 860.949.4061 or 203.706.0101. There is a child out there who needs you.

Please note: To protect the privacy of children in the foster care system and their foster families, FAM (Foster Adoptive Mission) prefers they remain anonymous in most instances. In the case of this article we have omitted the last name of the foster parent and have been given permission to use the foster parent�s first name.
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No Joke: Matching Funds Available if State Antes Up
by Jessica Ciparelli

When does $1.5 million state-funded investment dollars equate to $3.2 million? When it is combined with $1.7 million of private funding. And this is no April Fool's joke.

At the Legislative Office Building on April 1, close to 100 people, including legislators, parents and philanthropic leaders gathered to hear the announcement of a challenge to the state: Come up with $1.5 million to invest in building community plans for early childhood, increasing parent leadership (through programs such as the Connecticut Parent Trust Fund's Parent Leadership Training Institute, or �PLTI�), and improving early literacy, then private funders and foundations, including the William Casper Graustein Memorial Fund, will fund the remaining $1.7 million.

�Foundations are ready to invest,� said WCGMF Executive Director David Nee. �I really hope this offer is appropriately [accepted].�

It's not a huge sum to invest on either side, however, the testament to the product is measurable. The room was filled with parent leaders, many of whom have completed, or are in the process of completing, PLTI. Parent groups and advocates from East Hartford, West Hartford, Torrington, New Britain, Norwich, Norwalk, Manchester, Danbury, Windham,Windsor, Bridgeport, Stamford, Meriden, Middletown and Colchester were present to show their support of the matching funds and the opportunity to continue investments in early learning and parent leadership programming. Both make good economic and social sense for Connecticut's children, especially in tough times.

�We can't say enough about Graustein and other [funders] who are making these partnerships work,� said Rep. Bruce Morris (D-Norwalk). �I can't say enough about PLTI either. This certainly is a tough budget year, but this is an investment.�

Rep. Morris spoke of closing the state's achievement gap and said there is a way to do just that.

�Early childhood education is one of the first things we need to do,� he said. �We need to level the playing field with parents playing an active role.�

Marisol Estrada-Soto, a 2007 graduate of the PLTI class in Meriden, said the class has helped her become more involved. She is even now part of a work group for the �Meriden Early Learning Blueprint,� a comprehensive plan of action to promote learning for young children and their families.

�I realized I wanted to help the parents of Meriden become more engaged,� she said. Taking part in the Meriden Blueprint plan has helped her further understand what is going on in her own community.

For some, the reason for taking part in PLTI is more personal. That is the case of Kimberly Clark of New Haven, who is half-way through the 20-week program.

�The reason I am so adamant for PLTI and PEP [People Empowering People, also part of the CT Parent Trust Fund] is because I have a 7-year-old and I don't want to lose him to the streets,� Clark said. �It would be a disservice to allow these [programs] to fall by the wayside.�

�Families are so ready to be engaged � they just need the support,� said Elaine Zimmerman, Executive Director of the Connecticut Commission on Children.

Melody Currey, former state representative and current East Hartford mayor said there are at least 100 graduates of PLTI in East Hartford, and many of them are now serving on boards and commissions and are speaking out for children's issues.

�We have been very fortunate to have that,� Currey said.

Susan Murphy, vice president of corporate communications and community relations for Liberty Bank, said one of the bank's priorities in its strategic plan is to invest in preventative programming for families, including early literacy, youth leadership and PLTI.

�It's one of the best investments we can make,� said Murphy. �[But] we can't obviously do it alone � the only way we can do it is to partner with state and local government.�

In terms of capacity building, George Hensinger, representing Norwalk Early Childhood Council, said the council has been involved with Graustein for at least the past 10 years and has developed a three-year action plan. Eighty school readiness slots, he said, were added in Norwalk in 2008, with a goal of another 100 planned for 2009-2010. He added that through a program called "EPIC," 29 parents have been trained to go out and further engage other parents in the community.

State Rep. Catherine Abercrombie (D-Meriden) said she was �very� confident that the state would secure the $1.5 million in matching funds, but she urged those present to contact their legislators to stress how important programs such as these are.

�As we all know, nothing is set in stone,� she said.

The press conference was sponsored by the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund, CT Parent Power, Rep. Abercrombie and the Connecticut Commission on Children.

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\Memories Of A Lifetime

Connecticut Outdoors
Written By: Paul Narducci

I recently had the opportunity to take my nephew Ryan Paul fishing. He is involved with the cub scouts and they had their annual fishing derby in Killingwirth at there camp. This place is completely beautiful and reminded me of my childhood. I use to go to camps very similar to this and was also a cub and boy scout years ago. Of course we wake up to a day that is not so nice regarding the weather but it isn�t raining. After speaking to Ryans mom Lori we decide to continue with our plan. They pick me up around eight o clock and we are off. You could tell the excitement in Ryans face, he was ready to fish! We get there and the place is packed with people of all ages. Its very windy and is definitely cold. After about fifteen minutes of fishing you guessed it it started to rain. So we put on our rain suits and continue to fish. Lori and I look at each other with a confused look hoping that one of us would ask Ryan if he wanted to leave. We all know I couldn�t do it because I�m Uncle Paul the guy with the fishing show. As I begun to shiver a bit and felt something dripping from my nose Lori finally asked the Question of the day. As the rain comes down harder and the wind is blowing, Ryan was ready to go. Although we didn�t catch any fish it was an honor to be asked to spend time with Ryan. I can guarantee you we will be back out again. Paul, Ryans on the phone wants to go fishing.

April 18, 2009 Opening Day. I pick Joe Dias up at 5:30 am that�s right I said am. We are headed off to Wharton Brook to catch some fish. We get there and it isn�t as packed as it has been in the past. Right away people are catching fish and the madness has begun. Are first fish is a tiger trout. We never caught one of these before. We leave Wharton Brook with four fish for my parents to enjoy. Due to the economy and possible fees for fishing to go up we were forced to ask them for ten dollars a fish. I convinced Joe that he should ask grandpa. As I was getting the fish into a bucket with fresh water Joe went over to talk to Grandpa. I told my Dad how our day went and he was eager to get the fish cleaned,so we left. I asked Joe how much did we get and he told me to forget about it. What�s with this? Forget About It, someone has been watching to many mafia movies. Well I never did get an honest answer. I decided to take Joey out for breakfeast for some pancakes and French toast. What away to end a perfect day. I love French Toast. As a reminder here are some possible lures for you and your kids to try, Yum trout pellets, buoyant and Rough Rider from Thomas spinning lures. As always Paul, Tony, Frank, Joe and Jonathan wish everyone the best of luck and good fishing!

________________________________________________________________________________

This had happened to me on May 10 and I related it to Barb in a personal eMial. I decided to copy the text and submit it to The People's Press. I wonder how many other readers found themselves in my situation.

THERE'S A MOTH IN MY EAR!
Submitted by Nancy Sherburne, Tucson, Arizona.I went to bed shortly after midnight, Sunday, May 10. I had just turned on the light to check on a noise when I felt something I took to be an insect caught in my hair. Imagine how I felt when I heard the frantic fluttering of what I took to be a moth inside my right ear! After trying to dig it out with a Q-tip swab I gave up and called 911. The EMTs that showed up shone a flashlight into my ear but couldn't see anything so they said there was nothing there. Here I am listing to the intermittent fluttering and KNEW there was something there. I think further investigation told them there was something in my ear but they said they had nothing to take it out with. I would need a pair of slender forceps I could buy at Walgreens or I could get in the shower and let hot water run into my ear to flush it out. They left and I grabbed an unused 16-oz disposable plastic cup and went into the bathroom. I think I filled it up six times, pouring the water into my ear and trying to get the thing out in between. Since I had no forceps or even tweezers, the only thing I could think of to try was a lobster pick so I went to the kitchen for one and gently inserted it into my ear trying to skewer the thing. Suddenly, it came out into the sink and was indeed a small, dead moth. It was one weird experience I don't want repeated, but at least if it is I will know what to do. Now I have to worry over whether I get a bill or not, but at least their suggestion of the hot water did the trick.

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Wild Flowers of Hubbard Park
By Francis W. Lappert

I must go back to my early teen years to describe the many wild flowers that grew in the park. There were two small streams that came from Meremere. reservoir and from some springs also. We called that one �Bee Hive Brook� because there was a stone structure at the edge of the swamp opposite Reservoir Ave. shaped like a bee hive. The other small stream on the west side of �Mirror Lake we called shady brook which came from springs in the forest. Both of these streams supported the park with a multitude of wild flowers. Listed among them were the �Adder Tongues which grew in profusion along the stream. Then there were the �Jack-in-the-Pulpits� which were also plentiful, also a white flower called �Blood Root� so called because when picked the stems juice was the color of blood. The yellow flower which grew right in the stream was called �Cow-Slip�.

The flowers we liked the best were the purple �Lady Slippers� and the yellow variety. The purple ones grew under the pine and hemlock trees in the north of �Meremere� reservoir. The yellow variety grew on the hillsides between Hubbard Park and the reservoir. Today they are very scarce from over-picking and changes made in the park. There was one rare flower that grew up every year on the slope that was the dam for the reservoir, it was called �Dutch Mans Britches� as the flower which was white, resembled a line of britches hung out on a line. On the rock slides on both sides of the reservoir grew the multicolored �Columbines�, a very fragile flower. One of the first flower to appear in the spring was the �Mayflower�, some were blue others a shade of pink. My sister Rose was always the first person to find them and bring them to the local newspaper. She always knew when they were ready to bloom. On the north of the lake on the sunny hillsides were wild �Geraniums�, blue �Violets� and yellow ones which were quite rare. There was also the �Blue Gention� and one called �Wind Flower�. There were also the flowering bushes that were quite beautiful. �Honeysuckle� which grew among the rocks near the reservoir, �Mountain Laurel� which was plentiful along the road leading to the �Castle�. Along the brook coming from the reservoir were numerous �Pussy Willows�. The parks undeveloped forest land has numerous white �Dogwood� trees which are in full blossom at this time.

Most of the flowers which I have mentioned are long gone due to the development and improvements made in the park. Where the swimming pool is located we used to play ball in the meadow that was there. Most of the youth in our neighborhood on Reservoir Ave. learned to swim in �Mirror Lake� as it was clean and not polluted. Now the ducks and geese have taken over.

I recently received a letter from my sister in California, Rose Lappert Clark, and she listed a number of wild flowers that I had forgotten to mention. Among those are as follows:
Solomon�s Seal � Along the rocky ledges
Saxifrage � Along the rocky ledges
Blue Flag � Swampy areas
White Violets � Swampy areas
White Daisy � Open Field
Buttercup � Open Field
Wild Aster � Open Field
Wild Rose � Open Field
Black Eyed Susan � Open Field
Snap Dragon � Open Field
Clematis � Open Field
Anemone � Open Field
Red Trillium � Open Woodland
Myrtle � Open Woodland
Indian Pipes � Open Woodland

Added to the fifteen kinds I listed it makes quite an array of wild flowers that once grew in the park.

I don�t believe there is any other park in Connecticut that can claim such a variety. I challenge anyone to roam through the park and name as many as we both have.

You won�t feel Old�
Submitted by Donna Mahon
Just in case you weren't feeling too old today, this will certainly change things.
The people who are starting college this fall across the nation were born in 1989 .
They were not born when the space shuttle blew up.
Their lifetime has always included AIDS.
The CD was introduced 2 years before they were born.
They have always had an answering machine
They have always had cable.
Jay Leno has always been on the Tonight Show.
Popcorn has always been cooked in the microwave.
They never took a swim and thought about Jaws.
They don't know who Mork was or where he was from.
They never heard: "Where's the Beef?", "I'd walk a mile for a Camel", or "de plane Boss, de plane".
McDonald's never came in Styrofoam containers.
They don't have a clue how to use a typewriter
Do you feel old yet? (Sorry)
Notice the larger type, that's for those of you who have trouble reading.
Save the earth. It's the only planet with chocolate

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Number 9 � The Best Beatles�s Tribute Band

THE MUSIC
The Beatles, the most successful rock group in history and arguably the greatest band of all time, officially got their start in 1962 when they released their first single �Love Me Do�. They then went on to write more number one hits than any other band in history. In the relatively brief amount of time they were together, these four lads from Liverpool managed to compile a library of songs so rich with tonal complexities and range of emotion, it�s almost incomprehensible how innovative and unique they really were. Even after 40 years, their songs are still considered timeless classics and there�s no doubt they will continue to live on and endure the test of time. And if one were to delve a little deeper, they would come to realize that the Beatles were also pioneers on a number of other fronts�from their unique writing�to their vocal arrangements�to their style and delivery�to their look�to their sound and their approach to instrumentation�and even to their recording methods. They did it all. Needless to say, their story is a long and wonderful one and we could go on and on. Let�s just say the Beatles helped to shape a time and change the world. How could one not be drawn to their music.

OUR FORMATION
Hence, this leads us to the story of Number Nine. Many have asked why we formed and what our goal is as a band. We originally came together as part a mission to help children and our community. More specifically, we decided to form and perform as part of a charity event we organized on behalf of a local elementary school�s music program. We chose to embark on that endeavor of good will because music is near and dear to all our hearts and music has had a profound impact on each of our lives. And there�s no denying that music offers our youth a unique vehicle to exploring & unlocking their creative side and the potential benefits cannot be underestimated. All too often, the music programs are among the first programs to be diminished and even cut when a school is faced with budgetary constraints. Limiting these vital programs does a disservice to our teachers doing so could be detrimental to our youth and the future of our society. Our formation was in large part dedicated to sending the message that we must do everything in our power to preserve the arts and our efforts pay homage to the fine men and women dedicated to teaching our youth.

Another big reason we came together was that we simply love the music of the Beatles and we also really enjoy performing it. So much so, as a matter of fact, that we�re finding it very hard to stop learning and mastering their songs. There�s a seemingly endless well of great songs to choose from and we�re finding that the more we learn, the more inspired we become to learn more. We�re now well beyond 100 songs in our performing repertoire and to our amazement there are still dozens more gems that we�re working on. The Beatles catalogue of material is truly mind boggling.

OUR MISSION
We like to think that our mission is to pick up where the Beatles left off in August 29, 1966. This is when they played their last live concert in San Francisco�s Candlestick Park. At the time, many thought it was the end of an era. What they didn�t know was that the Beatles were hard at work creating an album that would forever change music. An album that was so intricate and deeply layered with sound and instrumentation, it would go beyond anything done previously. It was also an album that contained music so deep and involved, it would be virtually impossible to recreate live with only 4 people. On June 1, 1967, the album, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," was released in the U.K and it topped the charts all over the world, holding the number one slot in Britain for 27 weeks and for 19 in America. This was the turning point for the Beatles and for music as we knew it.

OUR NUMBERS
As the Beatles evolved over time, so did their music. More and more instrumentation was being used on their recordings, vocal arrangements became more complex, and their use of studio and recording techniques grew in unimaginable ways. It didn�t take us long to figure out that trying to recreate their recorded material live with only four people would be virtually impossible and we quickly found our numbers growing well beyond four. But we also found that having many players could be a great asset because it allows us the ability to perform any of their songs, from any era, from the simplest to the most complex. Virtually no song is out of reach. And we�d be remiss if we didn�t mention that we often like to explore sounds and arrangements beyond the recorded versions when the mood for improvisation hits us. We like to keep things fresh and exciting, not only for us but our audiences as well.

YESTERDAY�TODAY�AND TOMORROW
From that original benefit concert in early 2006, things have grown and evolved at an incredible rate. We�re now performing on a regular basis and each and every show brings with it memorable experiences and a feeling that we�re doing something special. Performing the music of the Beatles is indeed a great challenge but well worth the effort in our eyes. Our hope is that we can do justice to their great music and that we can move you. We�re proud to say that we cover a very wide range of material from the fresh and exciting early years to the mesmerizing psychedelic period to the beautifully crafted and seasoned material of the later years. There�s virtually no song out of reach. These are timeless classics that are sure to evoke powerful memories and we strive to make the music and our show an experience you�ll never forget.

MUSICIANS
Ken Sullivan � vocals
Ted Andrzejczuk � vocals & accordion
Geo Filippides � lead electric & acoustic guitar
Bob Glick � rhythm electric & acoustic guitar
Chip Hulten � bass guitar
Ralph Bushnell � drums
Chris Griffin � horns
Dave Zerio - keyboards
* Note, performances often include special guest appearances from a wide variety of talented and gifted musicians!

CONTACT INFO: For booking info or questions, contact Geo. J. Filippides @ 203-715-4621. For additional info on the band and upcoming performances, visit us at our website at http://www.number9info.com/

Local News and Events June 2009

2009-06-05T17:19:00.003-04:00

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Buy Schwans Frozen Foods Off The Truck For Masters Manna Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen Friday June 19th-Wallingford, CT.

On Friday June 19th from 10 AM to 7 PM Schwans Foods will be at Masters Manna Food Pantry selling there famous Frozen Foods for donations directly to Masters Manna which serves over 11 towns including Wallingford Connecticut .

Masters Manna is one of New Haven Counties largest Food Pantry's and we need your help .

Food Products brought from the Truck will be donated to the Food Pantry for those in need .

Masters Manna Services include community outreach, food pantry, clothes closet, soup kitchen and resource center.

Location of Community Event Masters Manna 46 North Plains Industrial Road off of Route 68 Right behind T Ds Lunch & More Second Building in back .

Directions from Route 5 Wallingford take Route 68 Over route 5 then take first left at Traffic Light onto North Plains Industrial Road to 46 North Plains Industrial Rd on left side . Go to Second Big Building in back.

Wallingford Happiness Club

June 30. The Wallingford Happiness Club last Tues. of the month meetings 7-9pm. Mary Stager will present an interactive discussion on Happiness and Work. Free Event. All are welcome. Choate Rosemary Hall, Ruuz Reese Building, Rosemary Lane, Wallingford, CT.
For more info. email: Wallingfordhappiness@gmail.com

American Red Cross Blood Drive

Friday � June 19, 2009 at the Polish Legion of American Veterans located at 193 East Main Street in Meriden. (We are diagonally across from City Hall)

Please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE soon to schedule a time for your appointment at PLAV. The donation of a pint could save up to 3 lives. Eligible donors should be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds, be 17 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit.

Positive ID is required at time of donation. Bring along a friend, relative, neighbor, co-worker and more. Make an appointment to help others for a great cause. The American Red Cross need is now and real. Consider yourself asked! The gratification is instant. Give blood. Thank you for helping save lives.

P.S. Remember Flag Day is June 14th and Father�s Day is June 21st.

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MidState Medical Center�s MediQuick Moves to New Location in East Meriden
Other Hospital Services to Follow

Beginning in late Spring, MidState Medical Center�s MediQuick will open in its new location in East Meriden. The urgent care center, which has been in operation on Paddock Avenue for years, will be relocating to a prime spot at 60 Pomeroy Avenue, where accessibility off of Interstate 91 and business-rich Research Parkway will make care more convenient for its patients.

MediQuick will be operating out of a larger, state-of-the-art facility similar in appearance to MidState Medical Center. Hours of operation will remain the same; open seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 7:30 pm, except for the seven major holidays.

Patients will have additional amenities while receiving care at the new site, including more privacy thanks to the design of the space; there are 10 private treatment rooms, four more than it currently has, as well as a private registration area, where patients can exchange their personal information in a secluded area. Radiology services will continue to be conveniently offered on-site, with brand new equipment.

"MediQuick has been a vital part of the community, serving East Meriden for many years. Our providers at this center consistently receive high marks for patient satisfaction, and this relocation will enhance our patient's experience by providing convenient access and ample parking, in a comfortable setting. MidState's goal is for every patient to have the same excellent experience�no matter which location the visit,� said Karen Goyette, Vice President of Administration and Business Development.

Providers at MediQuick are able to provide care for minor illnesses and injuries such as sore throat, earache, sinus pain, minor burns, a rash, back pain, the flu or a minor sports injury. X-rays and basic laboratory testing is also available. As always, symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath may indicate a life-threatening condition, in which case the MidState Medical Center Emergency Department would be the most appropriate place to obtain care.

Approximately 90 days following the move, MidState�s new East Meriden property will become home to several other outpatient services currently housed within the walls of the hospital on Lewis Avenue. They include the Infectious Disease Clinic, the Diabetes Center, Sleep Care Center, Wound Care Center, and programs and services for the Weight Management Program. The new facility will also have community conference room space for health and wellness programming.

For information, call 203-694-8200, or visit http://www.midstatemedical.org/.

Do you have a MidState doctor? call: 1 866-MMC-5678

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Federated Environmental Study School

Wallingford Garden Club members Carole Golitko and Ellie Tessmer attended The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut new Environmental Study School at The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station recently.

Issues discussed related to Land Ecology, Plant and Agriculture, Source Reduction of Pollutants, Trees of the Eastern Coast Line, Gardening with Nature, Environmental Science, The American Forest and Forest Insects, as well as a tour of Agricultural Station�s Trees.

The Wallingford Garden Club sponsored Carole Golitko and the Southwest Conservation District sponsored Ellie Tessmer. Carole Golitko is the Environmental Awareness Chair of the Wallingford Garden Club and Ellie Tessmer is the Environmental Awareness/Conservation Chair of the Federation. Please check the CT Federation website at http://www.ctgardenclubs.org/. Then check the Education Link.

The Wallingford Garden Club is a member of the Federated Garden Clubs of CT and National Garden Clubs, Inc.

Annual Plant Sale Thank You

The Southwest Conservation District had an Annual Shrub and Perennial Plant Sale at Lockwood Farm in Hamden recently. Thanks to many volunteers, the event was a success. Special thanks to Eleanor Harple of Daytime Garden Club of North Haven; Lois Stover and Jan Tracey of North Haven Garden Club; Joanne McLean, Helen Daney, Rose Northrop, Bert Subkowsky, Barbara Hannon, Diane Geiss, Carole Golitko, Shirley Lagerstrom, Maryon
Lindholm, and Lillian Weaver of the Wallingford Garden Club. UCONN Certified Master Gardeners Mary Lee Obert, Gail Eisenhauer, Mira Schachne, Marvin Carley, Catherine Priswalko, Joan Lenart, and intern Dawn Harrison were a great help during the sales. Also Mary Ellen LeMay and Alicia Mozian, SWCD Directors were on hand to assist the public. Friends: Kira Chivsuk, Cally Chivsuk, Emerson Chivsuk, Greg Priswalko and Mary Lou
Kirby also assisted at the sale.

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Professional Musicians Rally for our Regional Youth Orchestra and Q.W. Peabody Foundation

Professional musicians of all ages and from all over Connecticut will come together to benefit the scholarships of the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra, (CCCYO), and the Q. Walter Peabody Foundation, (QWPF). The CCCYO relies on scholarships to assist musicians� families that need tuition assistance. The QWPF is raising money for annual scholarships for area high school student musicians. Both scholarship programs use this event to raise money for scholarships for young musicians.Mr. Jon Garcia, trumpet, a UCONN junior in Music performance and Music Education and Ms. Elisha Bettencourt, harp, a freshman at Vinal Tech, will play at the second annual �Music for a Summer�s Night Gala� on Saturday evening, June 13th, from 6 � 9 pm., at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 154 Hanover Avenue at the corner of Cook Avenue in Meriden.The evening will start with a short presentation and reception by the Q. Walter Peabody Foundation. The concert portion of the event will be followed by a reception and raffles for music cd�s, books and movies.

For more information, e-mail to: meridenartstrust@yahoo.com or call Mrs. Katrina S. Axelrod (203) 235-7445. Tickets are $10 per person or $35 for up to five people arriving together, Tickets can be reserved, but will also be sold at the door. This will be a great family night out! ______________________________________________________________

The Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra, CCCYO winds up the 2008-2009 season with the Sixth Annual Spring ConcertThe CCCYO has been very busy this year. We have opened up a new opportunity, 'The Foundational Orchestra', we sent six members (four violinists, a violist, and a bassist) to the ACES Educational Center for the Arts January, 2009 "String Fling" and then all 40 musicians participated in the New Haven Symphony Youth Orchestra Festival on March 22nd, 2009. Our upcoming calendar includes our Sixth Annual Spring CCCYO Concert on June 7th, at 3:00 in the Lincoln Middle School Auditorium, 164 Centennial Avenue. We will be having a reception and a fun set of raffles. The $6 tickets will be available at the door.Watch closely for infomration on the new program, "Orchestra Summer 2009"! Information will be at JC Music in Meriden and can be obtained by e-mail at meridenartstrust@yahoo.com.Come and be part of our concert, tell young musicians about us and come audition!Remember: Performing IS Learning!Music Fun Fact:Have you ever wondered when to applaud at a Classical music concert? When the conductor puts his or her hands down. If the piece seems to stop, but the conductor's hands are still up, then that is simply a pause in the music and no applause is necessary. When the conductor's hands go down to his or her sides, the piece is over! Now you know!Brought to you by the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra and the Q. Walter Peabody Association. Come to our June 13th Gala!

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AMERICAN RED CROSS BASIC WATER RESCUE COURSE
at the Wallingford Family YMCA
Ideal for Scout leaders, outdoor enthusiasts, boaters of all kinds, water fitness instructors, camp personnel, teachers, parents with backyard pools, and teens, ages 12-15. (This course does NOT teach CPR or First Aid.)
This is a 4-hour course with water and classroom components and a 25-question written exam. Individuals who pass the course receive a 3-year certification card.
Attendees must be comfortable in chest deep water and must come ready to get in the water. For more information, contact Pamela VanderWeele. Class to be held Wednesday, June 24, 5-9 pm YMCA Member, $25. Community Member, $35.
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The Wallingford Junior Football League
Submitted By Bill Cloutier
The Wallingford Junior Football League hopes that eliminating weight restrictions on its players will increase registration numbers this year.

In the past all players were grouped by not only by age but by weight. The rule sometimes forced players, who were heavier than their classmates, to play with boys much older than themselves. Also, there was a maximum weight limit which sometimes prohibited heavier players from playing at all. This year, the league has adopted a grade-specific format with teams for each school grade running from Grade 2 through grade 8."The best part of moving to grade-specific teams is that players can now play with kids their own age regardless of weight,"

Wallingford Junior Football League president P.J. O'Malley said. "A player doesn't have to play against older players just because he or she is big for their age.� O�Malley said that the rule is important because it keeps playing field level based on maturity.� One of the biggest drawbacks from last year was that some of our squads had big 8- and 9-year-olds playing against 11 and 12-year-olds," O'Malley said. "It's not that the 8- and 9-year-olds didn't do a good job but, a big younger player doesn't have the same mental capacity for the game that an older more experienced player would have.� Now the league is set up in a more traditional way. The same players will develop together as team such as they would when they reach high school.� O�Malley believes that the new rule will boost participation numbers. "I do believe that the number of players for the league will increase," he said. "Now kids can play with their friends without having to worry about how big they are or of trying to come in under weight week-after-week before games."They'll also be playing with kids their own age. Kids they know. Kids from school and their neighborhood.� The Wallingford Junior Football League will hold its final registration on Saturday, May 13 at the Wallingford Park and Recreation Dept. from 9 a.m.-to-noon. The fee for football players (ages 7-14) is $75 and for cheerleaders (ages 5-15) is $60 plus a Cheer package. For more information contact league President P.J. O'Malley at 627-7195 or Cheer Coordinator Diane Chadderton at 627-9282.
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Holy Angels Church in South Meriden is currently accepting registrations for Vacation Bible School to be held August 17th through the 21st, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This year�s theme is �Safari Adventure, Discover Jesus the King.� The children (entering grades 1-5) will learn about different safari animals each day while learning more about Jesus in the daily activities of music, crafts, Bible stories, games and snacks (provided) all following the safari theme. Registration concludes June 30th, or when the 40th slot is filled, whichever comes first. Cost is $50 per child. For further information call the Religious Education office at (203) 237-8697, email hare@holyangelschurch.org or visit our website at http://www.holyangelschurch.org/ and click on Religious Education for an application. COME JOIN THE FUN!
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Sheehan Students Honored

Mark T. Sheehan High School recognized its varsity scholars at a banquet on May 12, 2009. In order to be selected for this honor, a senior must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.7. This is a rigorous standard to meet and the Sheehan administration and faculty are proud of the accomplishments of these students.

The Class of 2009 Varsity Scholars are:

Amanda Adinolfi
Felicia Astorino
Lisa Cheung
Emily Doll
Stephanie DuBois
Kimberly Grzesik
Rachael Hyland
Alyssa Jungk
Samantha Nardi
Nicole Richetelli
Cody Ripa
Maddison Shaul
Stephanie Smart
Kimberly Thai
Alexander Thompson
Benjamin Vessichio
David Wolf
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Sheehan Seniors Recognized as Scholar Athletes
Mark T. Sheehan High School ~Wallingford, Connecticut

Mark T. Sheehan seniors, Emily Doll and Alexander Thompson, were recently presented with the CAS-CIAC Scholar Athlete Award. In order to qualify for this honor, a student must participate in athletics at the varsity level, demonstrate academic excellence, and more importantly, serve as a model to others. Emily is captain of the volleyball and tennis teams. She is the vice-president of student council, secretary of Sheehan�s Chapter of the National Honor Society, and a peer advocate. Since tenth grade Emily has volunteered at Wallingford�s annual Family Day. Alexander is captain of the cross-country and tennis teams as well as treasurer of the National Honor Society. A National Merit Semi-Finalist, Alex was named the High School Citizen of the Year by the Wallingford Rotary. His volunteer efforts include peer ministry in his home parish. The Sheehan faculty is very proud of their accomplishments and congratulates them on this recent honor.
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Mark T. Sheehan High School
Wallingford, Connecticut

Sheehan Students Honored

The Sheehan students listed below were recognized for their academic accomplishments at a recent award ceremony held at the school. The Sheehan community is very proud of their achievement.

Karen Neubauer
Spotlight on Students: English
Robert Vaughn
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Freshman English
Tayler Hazelwood
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Sophomore English
Leanna Verch
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Junior English
Alexander Thompson
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Senior English
Lisa Naples
Excellence in Advanced Placement Statistics
Alexa Tomassi
Senior Award for Excellence History "2009"
Ashley Testa
Excellence in Italian II
Alix Lawson
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Dramatic Arts
John Dangelo
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Creative Writing
Alyssa Jungk
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Introduction to Theater
Lisa Cheung
Senior Award for Excellence Language Arts
Kaitlin LaFrance
Outstanding Science Achievement for Four Years
Elizabeth Pereira
Excellence in Art Foundations
Lea Dighello
Spotlight on Students: Physical Education
Alexander Thompson
Excellence in Photography
Michele Pollock
Excellence in Studio Art
Felicia Astorino
Excellence in Crafts
Chelsey Johnson
Excellence in Band
Jessie-Rae Hawthorn
Excellence in Vocal Music
Robert Belcourt
Spotlight on Students: Creative Arts
Allen DePalma
Excellence in Technical Education
Jesus Cazorla
Spotlight on Students: Technology Education
Christopher Hocking
Excellence in Business
Danielle Vitale
Excellence in Family & Consumer Science
Corey Williams
Excellence in Physical Education
Emily Quinto
Excellence in Physical Education
Arielle Yedder
Spotlight on Students: Math
Syed Shamsi
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Transitions to Algebra
Mary Dokurno
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Business Math
Andrew Mazzone
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Algebra I
Jacqueline Serna
Spotlight on Students: Social Studies
Patrick Cumpstone
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Geometry
Janet Early
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Pre-Calculus
Stephanie & Jessica DeMaio
Outstanding Work and Leadership in Algebra II

Outstanding Work and Leadership in Elements of Math
Lauren Reinmann
Outstanding Work and Leadership AP Statistics
Alexina DelVecchio
Excellence in Junior Social Studies
Laura Kinkead
Harvard Book Award

Outstanding Work and Leadership in AP Calculus
Lisa Cheung
Greater New Haven Math League High Score
David Wolf
New England Math League High Score
Alexander Thompson
Outstanding Math Student over Four Years
Leann Bickford
Bausch & Lomb Award
Timothy Fengler
Excellence in Integrated Science
Michael Kadow
Excellence in Earth Science
Turner Stowik
Excellence in Biology
Mary Solomon
Excellence in Chemistry
Kimberly Thai
Cytec Industries Science Education Award
Isabelle Jacobson
Excellence in Freshman Social Studies
Sarah Murray
Excellence in Sophomore Social Studies
Kimberly Grzesik
Edward Kosinski Citizenship Award
Christina Craig
Spotlight on Students: World Language

Excellence in Spanish I
Jordan Brint
Excellence in Spanish II
Jessica DeMaio
Excellence in Spanish III
Leanna Verch
Excellence in Spanish IV
Alexander Thompson
Excellence in Spanish 5 AP
Julia Truong
Excellence in French I
Amanda Carrier
Excellence in French II
Sarah Lawes
Excellence in French III
Katelyn Lamb
Excellence in French IV
Kyssandra Perkowski
Excellence in Italian I
Ashley Testa
Excellence in Italian II
Katherine Fitch
Excellence in Italian III
Christopher Hocking
Excellence in Italian IV
Sarah Lawes
Excellence in German I
Kimberly Grzesik
Spotlight on Students: Science

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Mark T. Sheehan High School
Wallingford, Connecticut

Sheehan Library Media Specialist Honored

Ms. Julie Hulten, Sheehan Library Media Specialist since 1998, is the recipient of the 2009 Rheta Clark Award. This award, presented by the Connecticut Association of School Librarians, honors library media specialists who have served with distinction for trn years or more and have made outstanding contributions in the media field, have an extensive record of service, and have demonstrated through action, philosophy and speech a dedication to the goals and principals of the media profession.

As a testament to the work she does, the faculty recognized Ms. Hulten as a school-wide strength during our most recent NEASC self-study citing her active involvement in outreach and in facilitating the integration of media services into the various curricula. This still holds true today, with teachers crediting Ms. Hulten for inspiring them to pursue various special projects and research assignments with their classes. She is described by her colleagues as approachable, knowledgeable and an absolute delight with whom to work. Ms. Hulten solicits the input of teachers whenever she comes across a resource she believes may be valuable, sending information constantly to departments, as well as polling the faculty for suggestions on which additions to the library media center she should invest in (financially or otherwise).

Ms. Hulten values learning, is able to motivate others and manages to remain on the cutting edge of library science. She is a remarkable individual who is not happy unless she is helping someone. An empty library, even for a minute, makes her feel that somehow she has missed an opportunity to teach. Ms. Hulten is a true asset to the Sheehan community and is most deserving of the Rheta Clark Award.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

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Kiwanis Club of Wallingford Presents Scholarships to Local Students
The Kiwanis Club of Wallingford and its Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the recipients of our annual scholarships. They are Samantha Zorn from Lyman Hall and Kimberly Grzesik from Sheehan. Meeting and presentation is June 10 from 6-8 pm at 95 Gathering. The money raised by the annual peanut day sale allows the club to award these scholarships. Thank you to all that support that fundraiser.
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Tax Seminar for Small Businesses

Business expenses are higher than ever, but one way to save money is to fully understand your tax obligations so you don�t overpay. Do you have questions about payroll, sales, and personal property taxes? Are you uncertain about filing deadlines? In Meriden, the non-profit Community Economic Development Fund is sponsoring a seminar, taught by Rick Merrick, CPA, for existing small business owners to aid their knowledge about tax issues. Tax-Related Issues for Small Business, a two-night workshop, costs just $25 for the general public, $15 for current CEDF clients. The seminar will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m Thursdays, June 18 and 25 at CEDF offices, 965 East Main Street. Pre-registration is required. Go to http://www.cedf.com/ and click on �Training Institute� or call 203-235-2333.

All training workshops are sponsored by CEDF in cooperation with Community Accounting Aid & Services, Webster Bank and Citizens Bank.
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2009 Meriden Early Childhood Expo

The 2009 Meriden Early Childhood Expo will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2009. The Expo will take place at the Meriden Public Library from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Expo is for parents and caregivers of children 0 - 8 years old to gather information from area child care providers and Meriden agencies such as the Health Department, Family Resource Center. Also, the Library will be providing tours of the Children's Department. We hope all will come and become informed on the many resources Meriden has. There will be free giveaways and door prizes! For questions contact Meriden Children First at 630-3566 or dwradcliffe@juno.com Visit http://www.meridenchildrenfirst.org/
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CT Food Association Hall of Fame Honoree

Angie D�Agostino, who is the Director of Sales for the Gus Sclafani Corp., was inducted into the Connecticut=2 0Food Association Hall of Fame on March 12, 2009. The reception was held at the Aqua Turf and over 450 people attended. Also inducted was Rich Cohen, President Shop-rite Stores and Peter Dudis, Vice President of Sales Big Y Supermarkets.

This prestigious award is given to people in the food industry for their many years of meritorious service and personal commitment to the food industry and their community. Mr. D�Agostino will celebrate his 50th year in the food business later this year. Before working with the Sclafani Corp, he was New England Special Accounts Manager with the S.C. Johnson Co.

Mr. D�Agostino, over the years has received many awards and accolades throughout the food industry. He has won the Grand Global Award as the best salesman in the country, twice. In his last year before his retirement, he received the Samuel F. Johnson Director Award for outstanding achievements. Mr. D�Agostino also serves on the Board of Directors of the CT Food Association and was Vice President of the Knights Of the Grip of CT.

As Director of Sales for the Gus Sclafani Importing Company, he is responsible for all sales and promotions in 39 states and works directly with Bruce and Luciano Sclafani in obtaining the best quality Italian products worldwide.

Mr. D�Agostino also served as Mayor of the City of Meriden, CT in the early 90�s and held every leadership position on the City Council for over eight years. As Mayor worked on many projects, helped lobby for the new Post Office, Meriden Golf Course, two new athletic fields for Platt and Maloney High Schools , lighted tennis courts, closing of the land fill and new safer rules and regulations for the airport. He also was credited, with the help of the City Council, for finishing the downtown project before he retired from politics. He served on many youth activity groups and chaired fund raiser committees over many years, was President of the South Meriden Little League, Vice-President of Meriden�s Babe Ruth and Treasurer for Meriden�s Jr. Football League and served on the Library Board of Directors and was Chairman of the city Park and Recreation Board just to name a few.
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Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr.
Memorial Tennis Tournament

*****

The biggest and premier community tennis tournament in New England is right here in Wallingford, CT! The 5th annual Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament is scheduled for June 13th � 21st.

The venue will again be the beautiful Hunt Tennis Center located on the Choate-Rosemary Hall Campus in Wallingford. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit Wallingford YMCA youth programs and the Winton S. Filipek Sr. scholarship fund.

All players receive a tournament t-shirt, players handbook, players gift bag, ticket to �Breakfast at Wimbledon� and tennis balls & water for every match. Prizes are awarded to 1st & 2nd place in every division.

The 9-day event in 2009 will feature: 17 divisions for all levels, a Free Kids & HS Clinic & Fun Day, Sunday June 14th (at capacity in 2008), opening ceremony with Mayors Wallingford/Meriden and Town Managers Southington/Cheshire and several other special events.

In 2008, the event drew 481 entries in 17 divisions.

THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT!

Please direct any questions to Wint Filipek Jr. wrfilipek@hotmail.com 860-621-5655 or the Wallingford Family YMCA at 203-269-4497.

Apply NOW on line @: www.ymcafilipektennis.com

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The Twelfth Annual Town of Wallingford �Doherty Cup�Golf Championships 2009
The Twelfth Annual Town of Wallingford �Doherty Cup� Golf Championship 2009 will be held on Tuesday, July 7th at the Wallingford Country Club.Rain date will be on Wednesday, July 8. The popular tournament raises monies for the Doherty Scholarship Fund., a scholarship that was created in 1997 upon the untimely death of David J. Doherty, a popular town councilman and Sheehan High School Civics teacher. The Doherty Scholarship Fund is a non-profit organization dedicated to providingtwo $2,500 scholarships to eligible Sheehan High School Seniors and donating $1,000 annually, to20the Wallingford YMCA�s Youth and Government Program, David established at the Y many years ago. TheDoherty family, which hosts the tournament, extends the invitation to all to come and support its event and enjoy a day of comradery and fun! This year the tournament not only has its traditional individual medal play championship, but also features a new option of play, a four-person team scramble event championship! The day is highlighted with special events and prizes, and features our special Doherty Cup presenter, Mayor William Dickinson. For more information on the tournaments and a copy of this year�s brochure, please contact John and Elaine Doherty at 203.265.7349.________________________________________________________________________

M. Salon�s 2009 Cut-A-Thon will Benefit

All funds will be donated to the CT Down Syndrome Congress
The Buddy Walk is a one-mile heart-warming walk that celebrates the many accomplishments of people with Down syndrome. Each dollar raised helps the Connecticut Down Syndrome Congress provide the important services that improve the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
All Haircuts Only $15.00!Sunday ~ June 7, 2009 11 am � 2 pm All Hair- Cuts $15.00 Refreshments will be served.
Located in Circle Plaza

1114 North Colony Road
Wallingford, CT 06492
203.269.0636
Proceeds from Bake Sale will also be donated
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Gini Mida explains cooking with herbs and flowers

Cooking, Baking and Garnishing with Herbs and edible flowers was the topic of a talk by Wallingford Garden Club member Gini Mita at the May meeting of the Our Lady of Fatima Women�s Club.

Yes, you can eat flowers, some of them, but you need to know which ones and how to use them in cooking. To demonstrate the effect of some, she came to the meeting with rosemary cookies, lavender cookies and lemon rosemary tea bread for her audience. The women sampled them before her talk and many went back for seconds.

Using a slide projector, Mita then showed her audience many different kinds of herbs from rosemary and thyme to basil, chives and oregano and explained how to use them. When you cut herbs, she said, put them in a vase with water until you are read to use them. Then you need to bruise them by squashing them between your fingers before they are used, or by using a herb grinder, to bring out the flavor.

Parsley is good in many dishes, such as pizza, pesto sauce and soups, but she says to always get the Italian fresh leaf parsley. She also uses it in a dish with clams, chopped garlic and wine sauce. Sage and rosemary are good in pound cake, and a bit of fresh mint makes brownies special.

Edible flowers include marigolds, tulips, daylilies, squash flowers, Johnny jump-ups and nasturtiums. Summer squash flowers can be dipped in an egg batter and fried, or stuffed and saut�ed. Nasturtiums have a spicy taste and need to be added sparingly and put in at the end of cooking dishes so they don�t lose their color.

Flowers can also be used to make beautiful and delicious hors d�oeuvres. For instance, she uses a daylily flower, cutting out the stamen and pistol and puts it on pesto cheese on a basil leaf on a cucumber. But she warned her listeners to only use herbs and flowers that have not been sprayed with pesticides.

Mita, who grows many of her own herbs and flowers, in her slides showed the beautiful presentations of many dishes she had made. Some of her recipes on using flowers and herbs in cooking will be found in the Wallingford Garden Club cookbook, a fund-raising project for the club which Mita is chairing. It is due to come out this summer.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

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*Be a (super) hero. Support The Jimmy Fund!*
Plant Sale,Craft & Vendor Fair will feature a children's Superhero Parade. A plant sale/craft and vendor fair will take place on Sat., June 13, 2009, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Applewood Drive in Meriden at the home of Kelly and Gary Fuerstenberg. This event will raise money for The Jimmy Fund, which supports the world-renowned Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dana-Farber treats adult and child oncology patients, and it�s the home base for some of the most innovative cancer researchers in the field today.

On Sunday, Sept. 13, Kelly will join more than 7,700 people taking on this challenge by walking in the 21st annual Boston Marathon� Jimmy Fund Walk, presented by Hyundai Motor America. This will be her third time participating. Kelly and Laura Belancik, also of Meriden, are co-captains of the Cancer Cure Crusaders.

The fundraiser will feature a Superhero Parade at 11:30 a.m. Children are encouraged to come dressed as a superhero, and homemade costumes are perfect. The fundraiser will feature Kelly�s annual plant sale, and she�ll sell her photo greeting cards and Gary will sell his copper trellises. In addition, a variety of vendors will set up throughout the yard, including Pampered Chef, Mona Vie, Discovery Toys, Avon, Jewels by Park Lane, Tupperware and Tastefully Simple. April Ann D�Amato of Soul Star Healing will offer angel card readings. If you�d like to reserve a space at the fundraiser, please contact, Kelly. The fee is a $25 tax-deductible donation to the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. Crafters are particularly needed. Plant donations are also welcome. For more information, please call Kelly at (203) 440-3092, or e-mail KellyCooks07@cox.net.

To make a donation in support of the walk or to see an updated list of vendors, please visit Kelly�s walk page at www.jimmyfundwalk.org/kfuerst. *Would you like to walk in a marathon?* A physical feat, the Boston Marathon� Jimmy Fund Walk gives participants the opportunity to follow the course of the 26.2-mile Boston Marathon route as they walk in honor or memory of friends, family, co-workers, and many other patients facing all forms of cancer. It is the only event other than the Boston Marathon itself that is sanctioned by the Boston Athletic Association to use the historic route. �I am so grateful for my three healthy children,� Kelly says. �Each mile of the marathon is marked by a picture of a child with cancer. It definitely reminds you why you�re walking, and it makes you appreciate what you have. I lost my Grampie and Uncle Dick Tharaldson to cancer in the past few years. It is a devastating disease. I am walking in their memory, as well as in honor of several family members and friends who are facing their own cancer battles.� Walkers may choose to walk the entire 26.2-mile route from Hopkinton to Boston, walk 13.1 miles to or from the halfway point in Wellesley, walk 5 miles from Boston College, or choose the Boston 3-Mile option.Walkers are treated to a celebration at the finish line at Copley Square in Boston, complete with food and music. To join Kelly�s team, the Cancer Cure Crusaders, visit www.jimmyfundwalk.org/kfuerst. If you�d like to create your own team, visit JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866- JF-1-WALK.
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Quinnipiac Chamber Event

Don't miss this one! Learn how to make your own Wine! The Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce will hold a Business After Hours at The Wine Press, 118 Quinnipiac Ave., North Haven, Wednesday, June 17, 2009. Ribbon cutting will take place at 5:00 pm and Business After Hours to follow from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Learn the ins and outs of wine making from the selection of grapes to designing your own label!Please register by visiting our website or email kelly@quinncham.com or call 269-9891/234-0332.

___________________________________________________________________________________MYSTIC AQUARIUM & INSTITUTE FOR EXPLORATION AND THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT EVERGREEN WALK PARTNER TO RAISE �PENNIES FOR PENGUINS�

Money raised to help save the declining African penguin population; Aquarium guests and shoppers can win art created by the aquarium�s penguins MYSTIC, Conn. (May 12, 2009) � Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration and The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk in South Windsor have teamed up to help save the rapidly declining African penguin population. Through August, the aquarium and more than 15 stores at Evergreen Walk will collect �Pennies for Penguins� to help our feathered friends. Aquarium guests and Evergreen Walk customers can also enter to win a one-of-a-kind piece of art created by the aquarium�s penguins, awarded monthly through August.

The �Pennies for Penguins� campaign kicks off on Saturday, May 16, during �Paws on the Promenade� at Evergreen Walk from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring afternoon host Damon Scott from WTIC-FM. Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration�s booth will offer the chance to win free aquarium admission tickets, a family membership or a painting made by the penguins with their feet, as well as information on the plight of the African penguin.

Over the last five years, the world�s African penguin population has decreased by 42 percent. In 2000, before the Treasure oil spill, approximately 11,000 African penguins were breeding and living on South Africa�s Robben Island, the third largest breeding island for African penguins. Today, less than 4,500 call the island home. In December 2008, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed listing the African penguin as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.

The African penguins at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration are helping their relatives across the world. They play an integral role in the African Penguin Species Survival Plan, and the aquarium staff�s work with them is helping researchers better understand penguins in the wild. In fact, the aquarium is a leader in a collaborative, nationwide effort to assist researchers in South Africa.

Last year, staff from the aquarium�s animal care, education and research departments got together to form the Penguin Task Force. Their mission is to examine all factors possibly affecting the penguins and develop a plan for the aquarium to lead and assist with education, research and conservation efforts of these species.

�Our mission is to help field researchers by sharing information, opening lines of communication and soliciting assistance from other institutions that participate in the African Penguin Species Survival Plan,� said Gayle Sirpenski, a member of the task force and co-coordinator of the African Penguin Species Survival Plan. �Having the penguins in our collections is wonderful, but we have a larger purpose: saving the species.�

Donations to help the African penguins can also be made at mysticaquarium.org.

This partnership to save the African penguins was made possible by WTIC-FM (96.5).

About Sea Research Foundation, Inc.Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Learning are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a private, non-profit, charitable organization incorporated in the State of Connecticut. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration.

______________________________________________________________________________________ Quassy Initiative As A Non-Gated Park �Unprecedented�
Putting A Positive Spin On The Economic Downturn

MIDDLEBURY, Conn. � While the economic downturn is adversely affecting many families and businesses throughout the nation, a New England icon is putting a positive spin on things.
From holding prices at 2008 levels to bringing in top-notch free entertainment, Quassy Amusement Park has embarked on an initiative to better serve its guests and the community during these difficult economic times.

�Many parks are cutting back on their live entertainment, if not doing away with it altogether,� noted George Frantzis II, a co-owner of the lakeside park that has been in his family for 72 years. �It would have been easy for us to have gone down the same path, but instead we are putting our best foot forward and making a statement to the communities that have supported us throughout the years.�

Quassy, which charges no general admission, will feature three world-class performing troupes during the height of the summer season at its Vacation Village Resorts Lakeside Theatre stage. The featured acts will be Cirque Equinox, The Kent Family Magic Circus and the Kenya Safari Acrobats.

�By presenting this rotating entertainment schedule, it gives families an opportunity to visit the park on several occasions and see a different act,� added co-owner Eric Anderson. �We�ve never before brought in three acts of this high caliber during one season � it�s unprecedented.�

Despite an economy in a furious tailspin, Quassy felt there was no better time than now to react with its unique initiative.

�These shows are of great expense to the park, yet there is no admission fee at Quassy,� Anderson pointed out. �This summer you can visit the park on numerous occasions and see different shows.�

The Kent Family Magic Circus will be at the park for two weeks during August and actually present at least three entirely different shows. Cirque Equinox will also have a variety show with variations in each performance.

The Kenya Safari Acrobats will return for their third consecutive summer at Quassy, performing for two weeks. Their high-energy performances draw large audiences and resounding response.

Local magician Daniel Greenwolf will take the stage July 9-15, Quassy officials noted.
Prices That Are Still Affordable
�Affordable Family Fun� has long been the slogan associated with Quassy Amusement Park.
�President Obama has promised sweeping change across America, but one thing that isn�t changing will be the affordable pricing at Quassy,� quipped Anderson. �With operational costs continuing to rise, we made a tough decision in holding our pricing at 2008 levels for �09.�
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Quassy charges $5 for parking, with the exception being July 4 when the fee is $7.

Guests are then free to walk through the amusement park and enjoy the stage entertainment and other special events.

For those who want to participate on the rides and �Saturation Station� interactive water play area, all-day wristbands are $17 for those under 45 inches tall and $21 for those 45 inches and taller. A separate admission to Quassy Beach and the waterpark may be purchased for $10 per person. Individual ride tickets are also available.

Quassy�s famous �25-Cent Friday Nights� return starting May 22. Ride tickets are only 25 cents each after 5 p.m. and the park also sells cotton candy and Pepsi for a quarter.
Another way to beat the economic blues for a night out with the family is the $20 carload special at Quassy. Each Saturday after 5 p.m., May 23 through Sept. 5, up to 10 persons in a vehicle receive an evening wristband for only $20 � parking included. There will be no carload special July 4.

Win Tickets
Members of the Quassy Kids Club also have opportunities to win all-day wristband tickets through the park�s electronic newsletter. Kids Club members receive exclusive discounts and other offers throughout the park�s season. There is no fee to join the club at http://www.quassy.com/.

Community Support
Quassy Amusement Park hosts a number of community service events each year, including two fundraisers for the Greater Waterbury Campership Fund to send underprivileged children to summer camp.
�We�ve worked with the Campership Fund longer than anyone here can remember,� said Frantzis. �Our opening weekend in April is always dedicated to that project as well as Labor Day Weekend.�
Prevent Blindness Tri-State is the beneficiary of the park�s annual �3-D� fireworks on July 4 and Quassy also supports other non-profits such as Special Olympics, March of Dimes, Children First, the Connecticut Food Bank and others.

Students Find Work
Hundreds of local and area students find employment at Quassy Amusement Park during the summer.
�It�s almost considered a rite of passage locally to hold a summer job at Quassy,� Frantzis said. �Over the years thousands of young people held their first jobs here and that�s a very positive reflection for us. Soon, we start the process of bringing in a new era of Quassy employees while � at the same time � we will welcome back some of our seasoned staff.�

Recent Additions
The park has also aggressively reinvested in the property in recent years. The advent of �Saturation Station� in 2003 marked a milestone for Quassy as the park diversified into the waterpark industry. The following season the park purchased a �Yo-Yo� super swing ride.

The success of the waterpark led to an expansion in 2006 when two gigantic �Tunnel Twister� waterslides were installed.

Last year the park added the �Galleon� pirate ship and a �Family Fun Slide� while celebrating its centennial all summer (1908-2008).

In the interim, Quassy has reinvested heavily in the park�s infrastructure and also refurbished a number of its major and children�s attractions.

Quassy Amusement Park opens its 101st season on April 25. The park is currently booking educational school fieldtrips, corporate, scout and church outings as well as wedding receptions and family reunions.
With more than two-dozen rides and attractions, the park also features the �Saturation Station� interactive water play area, beach, restaurant, arcade, games, special events and entertainment.
For more information visit http://www.quassy.com/ or call 1-800-FOR-PARK.
With photos

Going To Bat For Families

Quassy Amusement Park owners Eric Anderson (left) and George Frantzis II aren�t cutting back because of tough economic times. They plan on bringing at least three great family acts to the park this season that will perform free daily shows at the Vacation Village Resorts Lakeside Theatre stage. The park is also holding ride wristband and ticket prices. Quassy does not charge a general admission to enter the amusement park. (Quassy photo slugged Eric Anderson and George Frantzis)

Families That Play Together�.
Quassy Amusement Park is known for �affordable family fun.� In 2008 - the park�s centennial � Quassy added a �Galleon� pirate ship (foreground) and made numerous other improvements to the property. Quassy has also given much back to the communities which have supported it over the years, and 2009 will be no different. (Quassy Photo slugged Park overview)
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SOUTHINGTON CLASS OF 1984 25TH REUNON 11/28/09 - AQUA TURF CLUB
Please contact Gina Ferracci Pellegrinoginapellegrino@sbcglobal.net for more information.
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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club is now taking Summer Camp registrations. Camp starts on June 29, 2009 and ends August 21, 2009. The camp runs eight one week sessions starting at 8 AM and ending at 5 PM each day. Call for information at 203-269-7525 or stop by Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club 72 Grand Street, Wallingford, CT and pick up applications. Limited Spaces.
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Ben Franklin before School Program

Meriden Family Resource Center is now accepting registrations for the 2009-2010 Before School Program at Ben Franklin School. This program is open to children in Kindergarten through Grade 5. We offer a sliding scale and sibling discounts. We provide homework assistance, reading time and quiet games or activities from 7:00am until 8:30am. This program is offered to Ben Franklin students only. To register or for more information, please call 238-2316.
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HAMDEN CURVES WILL HOLD A POCKET BOOK SILENT AUCTION TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE RELAY FOR LIFE

Cathy Chagnon, owner of the Hamden Curves, is the Co- Captain of the Curves for a Cure Relay for Life team. She is collectin New and gently used pocket books, clutches and wallets to use as auction items for a TWO week Silent Auction, at her Gym, beginning on Memorial Day. At the end of the two weeks, the highest bidder for each item will write a check to the American Cancer Society for the amount of the high bid. �If we get enough purses donated we can hold a second auction at the Relay on June 27/28th at Quinnipiac University,� said Chagnon. New and Gently used purses, clutches and wallets can be dropped at the Curves Gym located at 1869 Dixwell Ave (Home Depot Plaza) OR at Body in Hand Spa located at 372 West Sheppard Ave. Any questions, please contact the Curves Gym at 287-8370.

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MONEY AND HELP FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AVAILABLE FROM THE COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND

The economy is faltering, and for small businesses or budding entrepreneurs, the story doesn�t seem to get any better: Loans are hard to get. Credit ratings have to be near-perfect for people to borrow. Even profitable businesses are having a tough time getting lending help that they need. In many cases, lines of credit, the lifeblood of businesses, are in jeopardy.
But there�s one non-profit organization with a 15-year track record of helping small businesses thrive and succeed even in tough times like these. The Community Economic Development Fund provides loans, education, free one-on-one business consulting and support to people and businesses that can�t get conventional financing. The money and training is there to help ordinary people. The approach � of lending the money, and giving support � works.
Ask Shirley Clements, of Meriden. In 2006, when she wanted to buy a health food store in Meriden, she couldn�t get a single bank to lend her the money. So she turned to the Community Economic Development Fund for financing. Not only did the fund give her the loan she needed, but Clements got the deal that CEDF offers to all clients: If she participated in the Fund�s small business training � hands on, practical evening workshops of a few hours, generally once a week for a few weeks � the interest rate on her loans would go down for the first three workshops she took. This is a long-standing strategy of the Community Economic Development Fund that reduces risk, helps avoid pitfalls and facilitates the successful growth of the business.
�Our loans tend to have a little higher interest rate than conventional financing,� said CEDF President and CEO Donna Wertenbach. �But clients can significantly reduce the rate, by more than 2 percent, by taking the training we offer � which in turn increases their business savvy.�
To Clements, it was a good deal. The loan that the Community Economic Development Fund gave her enabled her to buy her business, Healthy Harvest, in September of 2006. The tax, finance, and accounting courses CEDF offered not only gave her low-cost accounting software, but added to her knowledge as an owner of a small business. CEDF provided a small business consultant to meet with once a month to see how she was doing, and gave marketing help when she needed it.

�They (CEDF) really care about clients,� Clements said in an interview March 20. �It�s not an approach of just, �give them a loan, and leave them alone.� They give you a loan, and help you grow.�In March, four Community Economic Development Fund staff members visited Clements� store to view her expansion plans. Clements is planning to branch out, offering healthy, organic salads and sandwiches for the lunchtime crowd. The construction is nearly complete, and she plans to start offering her takeout menu in April.

To Clements, the meeting was as much a celebration of what she has accomplished as much as a reminder of the kind of service that CEDF gives. �How many bankers come out and see how you are doing?� Clements said, and added, �They (CEDF) don�t leave you stranded.�
CEDF is planning to offer courses in locations around the state this spring, included below. And because the economy is so difficult, the organization wants to spread the word that ordinary people can get help � whether they are one of the many laid-off workers, forced by unemployment to start a new business; or an existing small business, which wants to expand.
�CEDF has a very practical approach. We give loans, but also support and training,� said Wertenbach. �Even good businesses who need help would have a tough time getting conventional loans even in the best of times. And these are not the best of times. But we�re here. People should know that.�CEDF Courses Offered Around the State"Tax Related Issues for Small Business"- Taught by certified CPAs, every business owner needs to know the tax issues associated with owning a small business in Connecticut. Learn about the different kinds of taxes affecting your business and about your filing responsibilities and deadlines, as well as about payroll taxes, sales tax and personal property tax. Gain the important information needed to make solid financial decisions throughout the year while knowing the tax consequences."Understanding Business Finances to Maximize Your Profit"- Learn how to keep the necessary records for your small business, understand financial statements, make income projections and different accounting methods that work best for your business. Make sure that you manage your finances, not the other way around."Introduction to QuickBooks"- The prerequisite to this class is the successful completion of "Understanding Business Finances." Participants will receive hands-on instruction in a small group setting. The class fee includes a copy of QuickBooks 2008 software. Please be aware that demand for this workshop is high and registrations are accepted on a first come, first serve basis.To register for classes please contact: Rina Bakalar, Institute Director at r.bakalar@cedf.com or for additional information on CEDF small business loans, call 203-235-2333 or visit the CEDF website http://www.cedf.com/ to download course information, registration forms or loan applications.NOTE TO EDITOR --- SHIRLEY CLEMENTS� TELEPHONE NUMBER, FOR VERIFICATION OF QUOTES, IS 203-235-2092.

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Become a Hospice Volunteer

Spring is a perfect time of year to consider new beginnings! Masonicare Home Health and Hospice would like to offer you a new beginning - one that will add quality and joy to others. Make a positive difference in someone's life by becoming a hospice volunteer. Hospice is about living every day to its fullest...it's all about quality of life.There are many volunteer opportunities available...companionship, respite for weary caregivers, animal assisted therapy, sharing your musical or artistic talents or helping in the office. You choose what's best for you!Training to become a hospice volunteer with Masonicare Home Health and Hospice will be starting soon. We offer a Medicare approved volunteer training as well as continuing education and support. Begin the journey to make a difference in the life of some else - call Jolan Szollosi, Volunteer Coordinator at (203) 679-5342._________________________________________________________________________________

Franco-American Club Announces Scholarship Winners
The Franco-American Club of Meriden is proud to announce the winners of this year�s scholarship: Zachary Ouellette, Sarah D�Agostino, and Monique Pellitere. Each winner will receive a $500.00 scholarship to help with the cost of their college education. The FAC Club wishes to Thank all their club members who have helped out with fundraising this past year.

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Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr.
Memorial Tennis Tournament

The biggest and premier community tennis tournament in New England is right here in Wallingford, CT! The 5th annual Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament is scheduled for June 13th � 21st.

The venue will again be the beautiful Hunt Tennis Center located on the Choate-Rosemary Hall Campus in Wallingford. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit Wallingford YMCA youth programs and the Winton S. Filipek Sr. scholarship fund.

All players receive a tournament t-shirt, players handbook, players gift bag, ticket to �Breakfast at Wimbledon� and tennis balls & water for every match. Prizes are awarded to 1st & 2nd place in every division.

The 9-day event in 2009 will feature: 17 divisions for all levels, a Free Kids & HS Clinic & Fun Day, Sunday June 14th (at capacity in 2008), opening ceremony with Mayors Wallingford/Meriden and Town Managers Southington/Cheshire and several other special events.

In 2008, the event drew 481 entries in 17 divisions.

THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT!

Please direct any questions to Wint Filipek Jr. wrfilipek@hotmail.com 860-621-5655 or the Wallingford Family YMCA at 203-269-4497.

Apply NOW on line @: www.ymcafilipektennis.com
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�SEA EVERYTHING� MYSTIC PASS CARD TO OFFER VISITORS HUGE SAVINGS FOR A SECOND YEAR

Unique savings program offered by Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport and more than 30 area businesses provides $250 value for only $52

MYSTIC, Conn. (May 14, 2009) � Travelers looking for value this summer need not look any further than the scenic coastal town of Mystic. Available for a second year, the �Sea Everything� Mystic Pass Card � a unique promotion launched by Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, in partnership with 30 Mystic-area businesses � provides discounts and added value during the summer vacation season and beyond.

Priced at $52, the Mystic Pass Card, with a value of up to $250, offers one-time admission to Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration (including free next-day return with ticket validation), a complimentary fountain drink at each attraction, a limited-edition Mystic tee shirt, up to 20 percent off rates at local lodging properties, up to 25 percent discounts at local restaurants and shops and discounted admission to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center through March 31, 2010.

�This first-of-its-kind card pays for itself,� said Peter Glankoff, senior vice president of marketing and public affairs at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration. �Those who visit the aquarium and seaport and just one other Pass Card partner will save money.�

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), Americans are still planning vacations for the summer, but are staying closer to home, accepting fewer amenities and shortening their stays.

�In this time of economic uncertainty and record unemployment rates, people need a vacation more than ever. The Mystic Pass Card allows visitors to experience more of this beautiful coastal area � two of the largest attractions in Connecticut, pristine beaches, an array of restaurants, luxury and family lodging and specialty shops � while remaining within their tightened vacation budgets,� said Glankoff.

The Mystic Pass Card is a result of the Exit 90 �Sea Everything� collaboration, a group of 30 businesses in Mystic that have participated in cooperative destination marketing planning, including the development of a Web site (mystic.org) and joint advertising, public relations and promotional efforts, for three years.

Last year, 11,646 Pass Cards were sold, exceeding the card�s first-year sales goal of 10,000 by 16 percent.

�Last summer, gas prices were at an all-time high, and the economy was starting to weaken. The Mystic Pass Card was the value answer for many visitors,� said Steve White, president of Mystic Seaport. �We anticipate even more people will take advantage of the Pass Card this year as they stay closer to home and seek more value for their money.�

The Mystic Pass Card is available for purchase at Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, as well as at mystic.org, the Tourist Information Center in Olde Mistick Village and the Mystic Depot Welcome Center in Mystic through October 2009.

The Pass Card is $52 for adults, $48 for seniors age 65 and older, $42 for youth ages 6 to 17 and $22 for children ages 3 to 5.

For a list of participating businesses and their discounts, as well as information about Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, visit mystic.org.
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Meriden Parents SEE 1st Graduation

The Meriden Children First Initiative sponsored program, Parents SEE, recognizes 10 graduates, consisting of parents, grandparents and guardians for participating in a 12 week program offering skills to become active participants in education at the school, district and state levels.

Meriden, CT, Tuesday May 12, 2009: Parents SEE is collaboration between the Connecticut Center for School Change and the Connecticut Commission on Children. The Center partners with school districts to improve their organizational coherence in order to increase student achievement and sponsors an executive leadership program for superintendents.

It was back in January of this year when we began the 12 week session where motivated parents, grandparents and guardians are taught practical strategies for actively engaging with other parents, with educators and with community leaders to address with confidence public policies and civic engagement to improve schools for all children. During each of the 3-hour sessions and full day kick-off retreat, participants actively explore questions at the heart of leadership, change and education policy. To do this, participants acquire knowledge, engage in dialogue that encourages understanding of diverse viewpoints and experiences, and practice the skills needed to effect constructive change. By the end of the course, parents have a toolkit that enables them to address public policy issues and engage as parents and civic leaders to improve schools for all children.

Learn how to build a better world for your children at http://www.ctschoolchange.org/. If you have any questions call Noemi (Mimi) Gonzalez at (203) 630-3566 or click on http://www.meridenchildrenfirst.org/. Our Meriden Children First office is located in the Meriden Public Library.

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North Haven Garden Club Colonial Garden

The North Haven Garden Club members had a major spring cleanup at the Colonial Garden which included Chair Lois Gough with Lois Stover, Marie Tiberio, Annette Bailey, Gloria Peach, Judy Neubig, Brenda Howlett, Rita Gangi and Mary Cameron assisting. Come by and visit this garden at the corner of Broadway and Elm Streets behind the Historical Society Building.

The original plan for the North Haven Bicentennial Colonial Garden was started in 1976. The brick pattern paths and plantings are original to the ones used when North Haven was settled. A commemorative sign was installed in 1997 and a sundial in 2001. The planning, digging, brick laying and plantings were done by members at that time, some of whom are still members. The original rose arbor was replaced by Walter Brockett a few years ago. In 1999 the Garden Club expanded this project by landscaping around the front and sides of the building with various shrubs and perennials. The club maintains this garden from spring through fall on a bi-weekly basis. This garden is enjoyed by town citizens and school children who visit as a school project in conjunction with the Historical Society field trip.
North Haven Garden Club is a member of The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut,
Inc and National Garden Clubs, Inc.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

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The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2009 Gardener�s Market

Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 11th to Sept 12th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, home crafts, baked items and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. Carole and Bob Golitko will continue with cooking demos and breakfast items using vendors fresh products. If you wish to be a vendor, please contact Ellie Tessmer, Market Manager at 203-269-2653 or email at swcd43emt@sbcglobal.net. We are especially looking for backyard gardeners to share their produce with their own booth, consignment or donations to the Wallingford Garden Club. Deadline for applications is June 15. Please check the website at:
http://www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com/ for details.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

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HOLY TRINITY PARISH BAZAAR
will take place June 1-6, in the church parking lot at 84 North Colony Street (Rt. 5), Wallingford. Hours are
Monday through Thursday, 6-10 PM; Friday 6-11 PM; Saturday Matinee,
2-5 PM; and Saturday Evening 5-10 PM. Wristbands on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday Nights for $20; and at the Saturday Matinee specially priced at $15. Tufano Amusement rides for adults and kids; food specials; and a 50/50 raffle (twice nightly). Come join us for the rides, games of chance & skill, food, crafts and raffle. It�s full of excitement...don�t miss the fun...There�s something here for everyone at the Holy Trinity 39th
Annual Bazaar!!! Call 269-8791 for more information.

Photos if you wish to use: (milk can toss: Bob Ducatelli & Gus Trujillo) (Bazaar chair: Lou Passariello) (Avalache ride: Shawn and Shaina Carroll)

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Two Wallingford residents graduate from St. Vincent�s College

BRIDGEPORT�Two Wallingford residents were presented diplomas at at the 2009 St. Vincent�s College Commencement Exercises held at the Quick Center of Fairfield University.

Michelle Hastings and Kelly McNamara-Diorio of Wallingford were awarded an associate of science degree in nursing and will be working in many local healthcare settings.

�Have big dreams for your future, they can come true� said St. Vincent's College President Dr. Shouldis, adding that the graduates �have taken major step in their lives� that will have an impact on the lives of their patients, co-workers and families.

Ms. Judith Greiman, President of the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges (CCIC told the graduates that they should make their life �worth celebrating� by providing human compassion in a rapidly changing healthcare environment that is likely to experience further upheaval.

�You will be on the front line of that transformation. You will be the constant in assisting patients,� said Dr. Greiman, who is an expert on public policy as it relates to independent colleges and the need to strengthen financial aid programs for students.

The College, located at 2800 Main Street in Bridgepot conferred a total of 71 degrees, including 55 to men and women who received Associate of Science degrees in nursing, 14 in radiography and two in medical assisting.

St. Vincent�s College was founded in 1905 as the St. Vincent�s School of Nursing and officially became a college in 1991. It provides degree programs in Nursing, Medical Assisting, Radiography and General Studies. It also offers a wide range of short term certificate programs leading to healthcare careers. For information on enrolling in St. Vincent�s College, call 203-576-5235 or visit the college website at http://www.stvincentscollege.edu/.

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HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE

SPECIALS STARTING IN JUNE AT HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE 22 NO. TURNPIKE ROAD IN WALLINGFORD!

NEW!!! SENIOR DISCOUNT 20% OFF (AGE 55 & OVER) YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE EVERY TUESDAY(CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS APPLY) starting June 3rd.

FAMILY SHOPPING DAY DISCOUNT 10% OFF YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE
(CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS APPLY) EVERY Wednesday starting June 3rd and every Wednesday after that.

WE NOW HAVE CLEARANCE RACKS OF CLOTHING WITH PRICES STARTING AT .25 CENTS!

SALES THAT WILL ALSO BE HAPPENING IN JUNE ARE: SPECIAL 20% OFF CASH & CARRY ON FURNITURE(ITEM(S) MUST BE TAKEN SAME DAY TO GET DISCOUNT. 10% OFF FURNITURE PURCHASE WHEN USING DEBIT,M.C. OR VISA WHEN TAKEN SAME DAY OF PURCHASE- WATCH FOR SALE DATE IN THE STORE!

BUY 1 GET ONE FREE CLOTHING SALES.HALF OFF SPECIAL STORE CLEARANCE ITEMS SALE.

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Calling All Kayakers!
Annual Kayak for a Cause Event
On July 25th, 2009

One of the area�s most unique and challenging charity events will take to the water for the ninth year in a row, as Kayak for a Cause IX (KFAC) prepares to launch July 25th, 2009.

The event, which arose out of a challenge between two friends, has grown into a massive fundraising initiative which attracts hundreds of paddlers for the voyage: paddler spots are limited due to safety considerations so early booking is encouraged to avoid disappointment. The journey takes approximately three hours to complete depending on weather conditions, and raises money for local and national causes. This year�s chosen charities are: Hole in the Wall Gang, Outward Bound Connecticut, The Maritime Aquarium, Builders Beyond Borders and Save the Sound.

�KFAC touches a combination of positive emotions and desires in people: charity, fitness, friendship, teamwork� and perhaps cold refreshments at the now-famous Beach Party,� said Miles Spencer, co-founder of Kayak for a Cause. �It�s no wonder we have so many people that want to take the challenge and see the other side with us.�

This year Kayak for the Cause will reverse the direction of the trip, with registered paddlers traveling north for the 12.4-mile trip, launching from Crab Meadow in Huntington, NY and landing at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk, CT. This is the first time such a large group of sea-kayakers will attempt a trip in this direction, and the added difficulty of paddling against offshore winds will make this year�s excursion particularly invigorating.

Throughout the years, Kayak for a Cause has had 1,140 people committed to the cause, and received 13,500 donations totaling over $1.3 million.

In the evening, kayakers and volunteers will enjoy an evening with a lobster bake and a music festival, where Donavon Frankenreiter is headlining, along with special guests including Morley, Barnstorm and P.J. Pacifico.

VIP invitations to attend the lobster bake festivities will be offered to those who donate $501 or more for two people or $251 for one person to Kayak for a Cause IX. Those who contribute the minimum donation of $25 will receive general admission to the beach party.

For further details on the July 25th crossing and festivities, as well as all charities involved, please visit http://www.kayakforacause.com/.

About Kayak for a Cause
Connecticut residents Scott Carlin and Miles Spencer founded Kayak for a Cause in the summer of 2001, when they made their maiden voyage from Rowayton, Connecticut to Long Island on a lark. The resulting charity event and Long Island Sound crossing was created as a way to blend their love of kayaking with helping those in need.

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Borders Books & Music in Meriden Announces June Community Events Meriden, CT, May 22, 2009 � Borders Books & Music, 470 Lewis Avenue, Meriden, Connecticut, has announced its roster of events for June. June 3, 2009. DISCUSSION: Borders Book Club. 7:00 pm �City of Thieves� by David Benioff. Join us for a lively discussion of this terrific book in our cafe! June 5, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Dave Richardson. 7:30 pm. Connecticut musician providing live folk-rock music. June 12, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: John P. Shannon. 7:30 pm. Local guitarist specializing in ragtime, blues and folk. June 13, 2009. AUTHOR: Toni Andrews. 12:00 pm Author Toni Andrews will discuss her latest book in the Mercy Hollings series, �Cry Mercy� and provide FREE tarot readings! June 13, 2009. DISCUSSION: Books With Bite! Teen Book Club. 3:00 pm �Nightworld Book 1� by L.J. Smith. For fans of Stephenie Meyer seeking new and fun vampire reads!June 19, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Dean Robert. 7:30 pm Exciting young acoustic pop performer from Wallingford making his Borders debut. June 20, 2009. AUTHOR: Esther Friesner. 1:00 pm This nationally-renowned author will discuss her young adult novels �Nobody's Princess� and �Nobody's Prize.� June 26, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Cavadas. 7:30 pm This talented teen group from Southington returns with its special brand of acoustic-flavored jazz. Join Miss Meg for children's story time every Tuesday and Saturday in June at 10:30 am. Each week has a new, fun theme, along with a special craft. Open to all ages. All events are free to the public. For additional information, please contact Borders at (203) 237-5510.

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Urgent! The Animals Need Your Help
Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer
I would just like to wish "All" of the father's out there, a very "Happy Father's Day," but especially to my Dad, Husband and Brother's, who I think are exceptional father's. Enjoy your special day, because our lives wouldn't be what they are without you.It has been very busy at the Meriden Humane Society and just when we think nothing else can happen, it does.Recently, we have had an influx of dogs and cats, either being abandoned or dropped off at our door step. While this is not always uncommon, what is is the fact that most of them need immediate medical attention. People are letting these animals suffer to the point where it is almost to late to help them. They are being left to die under people's porches or abandoned on the streets, because people cannot financially take care of them.The Meriden Humane Society is currently in debt to its local veterinarians and is struggling to get these animals the medical attention that they need. It pains me to tell you how sad this makes me feel. I hope that some of you can see it in your hearts to help us out at this time. You can't even imagine how frustrated we feel when we have to get an animal treatment and don't know where to go. Please, even if it's only a few dollars, it will help a sick animal. You can send donations to the Meriden Humane Society, 311 Murdock Ave, Meriden, CT 06450 or call (203)238-3650 and see how you can help.Here are a few of our upcoming fundraiser's: On Saturday, June 13th, we will be having our first "Babes N' Bubbles" car wash, at the Cloverleaf Building in Meriden. Also on that day, there will be a "Family Style Roast Pork Supper," at the Meriden Grange Hall, 540 Broad St., from 5-6:30p.m. Tickets are $10.00 (children under 10 are $5.00). On June 14th from 4:30-7p.m., please join us at our "Pasta Dinner" fundraiser, to be held at the Falcons Polish Club, 33 Knowles Ave, in Southington. Tickets for this event are $10.00 and $8.00 for Seniors & kids under 10. Need a good laugh? Why not come to "Ryders On Main," 464 West Main St. in Meriden, on July 18th, for a "Night of Comedy." This night features four of the areas top comedians, that are sure to get you giddy. The show starts at 8:30 p.m. and admission is $15.00 to benefit the animals. For more information or tickets to these events, please visit the M.H.S.As always, we are desperately in need of canned ground wet cat food (no fish please), Cat and Kitten Chow and Dog Chow. You can also view our website for our wish list, animals and info on fostering an animal with donations. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and see you at the shelter!

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A special thanks to the Choate Mentoring program and its volunteers for so many years of dedication and support. This program is also in jeopardy of not continuing next year due to lack of funding. The Choate Mentoring program has been helping support children in the Wallingford and Meriden area for over 15 years. They were one of the first High School mentoring programs that was offered in conjunction with the Big Brothers Big Sisters formerly of Meriden and Wallingford. The program continued when the local Big Brothers Big Sisters of Meriden and Wallingford merged with the Hartford branch, Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters several years ago.Janet LeClair program coordinator for the Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, says that they Mentors are upset of the possible closing of the program because they won't see the kids and because the communtiy will NOT be served. Janet a long time volunteer coordinator for the program and also once a Big Sister in the program, feels let down and upset that the more then 50 children in the program will not be served. "How can the community let this happen", say LeClair.Also a BIG THANK YOU to Choate and Mary Pashley, the coodinator for Choate for student volunteers in the community without her dedication and support this program would not be as successful as it has been over the years, says Liz Davis, the Education Coordinator from Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce. She has been an inspiration and a mentor herself to the the students for many years, Liz also states.THANK YOU to Choate for all their support and dedications to this program. -Liz Davis Benefits Coordinator Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce203-269-9891http://www.quinncham.com/.
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Fighting to Save our local Red Cross Chapter

Submitted by; Ellen Rubell Red Cross Volunteer
Almost 3 years ago I decided it was time to give back to my community. I had been a Wallingford resident for over 20 years and felt very much at home here. I saw an article in the local paper stating that the Red Cross needed volunteer drivers. I went in and was greeted with a warm, friendly bunch of women who welcomed me. I started driving clients once a week to necessary medical appointments. Fast forward to this week. When I got to the office on Wednesday I was informed that it would be closing this summer. I was speechless! How were all the clients going to get where they had to go? When I took on the responsibility of driving, I knew I wasn't going to change the world, end the war or fix the financial crisis. I did know, however, that I made a difference in one person's life every week. I used to think the Red Cross was only about blood drives. After becoming a volunteer, I discovered it's SO much more. I soon found out that it's also about rides to medical appointments, rent and utility assistance and a food bank. This is OUR Red Cross, OUR local office, and as a community we can't let it go away. In good times or in bad, nobody knows when they will need the services provided by the Red Cross. We just have to make sure they are still there to provide them. I, along with many of the volunteers, have started a petition to keep the local office open and keep the life saving services in place. If asked to sign, please do so.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Town News June 2009

2009-06-05T13:50:00.002-04:00

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

MAYOR�S CORNER MERIDEN

As Meriden's Mayor, I continue to be impressed with the vitality and generosity of our community. I have had the privilege of making appearances at over 200 events, celebrations, award ceremonies, anniversaries, grand openings, parades, and other community events. It is amazing to see the energy, enthusiasm, and commitment of so many of our residents for worthy causes. Recently, the Meriden Senior Center hosted a Senior Expo that offered an array of booths and resources to assist seniors. They even included a self defense class using a cane. Since I had just recuperated from hip surgery, I was pretty adept at using the cane myself. The Meriden Kiwanis Club presented a bike safety rodeo downtown and handed out free bike helmets to all the kids and provided instruction in bike safety. After the bike safety program, the Kiwanians held another successful "Cow Plop Fundraiser" to raise funds for children's charities. The Meriden Lions Club held their annual "Duck Race" featuring several thousand little plastic ducks making their way down Harbor Brook in City Park to the encouragement of hundreds of onlookers along the stream bank rooting for their duck entry. The Soap Box Derby at Hubbard Park was a fun event and demonstrated a strong partnership with "Beat the Street" and Kevin Curry's Soap Box Race Committee. The kids had a blast racing down the hill in their sleek soap box cars.

Looking ahead, Westfield Meriden is partnering with the city of Meriden to put on a July 4th extravaganza at the Square featuring a fun filled day of family entertainment and closing with a spectacular fireworks display. With the official summer season approaching, take time to enjoy the outdoors - hike the Quinnipiac Linear Trail, visit Hubbard Park and Castle Craig, take the kids to the playscapes in our parks throughout Meriden, and attend the many musical offerings at the Hubbard Park Band Shell. And remember - July 4th Family fun day and fire works at Westfield Meriden for a treat that you and your family won't want to miss.

Enjoy!
Mayor Mike Rohde

MAYOR�S CORNER WALLINGFORD

Dear Friends:
Wallingford Project Graduation marks the 20th year of a community wide effort to make graduation night safe for all Wallingford high school graduates. The alcohol and substance free celebration will be held immediately following commencement ceremonies. The event is held at the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Facility and is free of charge to all Wallingford graduates.

Those interested in supporting this program may mail donations to: Project Graduation 2009, c/o Wallingford Youth and Social Services, 6 Fairfield Boulevard, Wallingford, CT 06492.

Also commencing in June, Wallingford Center Inc. invites you to �Summertime in Wallingford� and will sponsor along with the Wallingford Senior Center a �Brown Bag Lunch Concert Series� featuring �The Survivors� from Noon to 1:30 p.m. on June 5, 12, 19, and 26 at the Parade Ground on South Main Street.

Also, on June 6th there will be a Pet Parade starting at 186 Center Street, sponsored by Michelle Wininger of Mission Real Estate, registration is at 9:00 a.m. On Saturday June 13th the Connecticut Tourism Bureau is sponsoring a statewide Open House Day and will include tours of The Wallingford Victorian Bed and Breakfast at 245 North Main Street and the Wallingford Public Library, at 200 North Main Street. For additional information contact WCI at 284-1807 or wallingfordcenterinc.com.

We extend Congratulations and Best Wishes to the graduating Classes of 2009 and wish everyone an enjoyable �summertime in Wallingford�.

William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

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Wallingford Senior Center
June 2009 Edition

Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at http://www.wlfdseniorctr.com/

SENIOR STAR KARAOKE PARTY
Monday, June 15, 1:00 PM
Are you the next Connecticut Senior Star? Join us for HealthNet�s senior version of American Idol! The Senior Star Karaoke Party will be hosted by Bob Mel. Contestants will perform with the help of a karaoke machine. Soloists, duets or groups are welcome! The audience will vote by ballot to select two acts to compete in a regional competition. Regional winners will be videotaped and the final voting will be done on YouTube. Anyone who wishes to perform should sign up at the front desk and pick up a song list. Whether you wish to perform or not, don�t miss out on this fun afternoon of karaoke and refreshments.

SOCK HOP & CRUISE NIGHT
Thursday, June 25, 5:00�8:00 PM
Dance to the sounds of the 1950�s at our Sock Hop and check out all the great classic cars in our parking lot at our Cruise Night. Be there or be square!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

PEANUT SALE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Friday, June 5
The Kiwanis Club needs our help with its Annual Peanut Sale on Friday, June 5, at Stop and Shop in Wallingford. Four volunteers are needed for each three-hour shift (8:00 � 11:00 AM, 11:00 � 2:00 PM, and 2:00 � 5:00 PM) to sell bags of peanuts. Two volunteers will be stationed at each entrance. Please sign up if you are able to work a shift. This volunteer opportunity benefits the community and the Senior Center, too. The Kiwanis Club donates funds to the Senior Center in appreciation of our support.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on July 1, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at the Senior Center. Volunteers are needed to help run the canteen, make sandwiches, and provide baked goods for the donors. Registration and escort volunteers are also needed. Please sign up if you can help in any way. Also, blood donors are needed. There is no upper age limit for blood donors. As long as you are in good health, you can donate blood.
Give the gift of life.
Call 1-800-448-3543 to schedule your appointment.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE
Thursdays, 6:15�8:15 PM
Learn how to use a digital camera and how to download and edit your pictures at our 5-week Introduction to Digital Photography class. The course begins June 25 and ends July 23. Our instructor is a member of the Wallingford Camera Club, and we thank the Camera Club for making this class possible. Course topics include: Digital vs. Film; Digital Camera Functions; Using Your Camera; Downloading your Photos; and Basic Photo Editing. The cost of this course is $25.00 and pre-registration is required.

PAINT A PICTURE IN 3 HOURS!
Thursday, June 18, 3:00�6:00 PM
Using the Bob Ross method, art instructor Candy Kozak will help you create a painting in just one session! No previous painting experience is required. All supplies will be provided for you � just bring a roll of paper towels and wear some old clothes. The cost of this session is $25.00. Space is limited, so sign up today!

SOCIAL SERVICES

IN ORDER TO SERVE YOU BETTER . . . PLEASE CALL 265-7753 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH SOCIAL WORKER EILEEN FLYNN. THANK YOU.

VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, June 23, 1:00 PM�3:00 PM
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford, will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265-7753.

ASK AN ATTORNEY
Thursday, June 11, 1:00 PM�2:30 PM
Appointments are available to get free legal advice from Attorney Daniel Tully. Please call 265-7753 to schedule your appointments.

BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, June 16, 10 AM�12 noon
Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment l. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses note covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Pre-registration required. Call 265-7753 now to schedule an appointment.

CONNPACE PROGRAM
ConnPACE is a state-funded prescription drug program. Each year the income limit guidelines are adjusted. In January 2009, the changes are as follows: $25,100 for a single person and $33,800 for a couple. Beneficiaries who have ConnPACE must select a Medicare Part D plan. ConnPACE will still allow beneficiaries to select the Medicare D plan of their choice. There are no asset limits. Anyone who meets these guidelines is encouraged to apply. For an appointment or additional information, please call Eileen Flynn, SW, at 265-7753.

LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP on FRIDAY � JUNE 19 at 10:15 A.M.
Michelle Tarantino, MPH,OTR/L,CLVT from Masonic Healthcare, will be presenting different types of equipment available for individuals with low vision. Call 265-7753 to register.

MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM
The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income and asset guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium of $96.40. The guidelines for this year are as follows:

INCOME ASSETS
Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB)
Single $1,181.00 $4,000.00
Couple $1,771.00 $6,000.00

Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
Single $1,361.50 $4,000.00
Couple $2,014.00 $6,000.00

Additional Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (ALMB/QI)
Single $1,497.05 No Cap
Couple $2,196.25 No Cap

If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay the $96.40 premium. To schedule an appointment or for additional information, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

MAX E. MURAVNICK
MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS� CENTER

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 Caf�. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!

The 39th annual �Special Day for Special People� will be held in Hubbard Park on Saturday, June 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The free picnic in the park for Meriden senior citizens 60 and over was started in 1970 by Charlie Byron, assisted by Max Muravnick. Special Day for Special People is a picnic with hot dogs, chips, popcorn, soda, watermelon and ice cream served by student volunteers and funded by contributions from Meriden businesses, clubs, civic organizations and the Meriden City Council. More than 300 people attend the picnic each year and all Meriden seniors are invited to attend Special Day!

The program will open with a Flag Raising Ceremony by the Meriden Antique Veterans. Mayor Mike Rohde will then welcome the crowd assembled in front of the band shell. Entertainment will be provided throughout the day by Vinnie Carr, popular keyboard player and vocalist who knows all of your favorite songs! Free bingo with prizes will start at 12:30 pm under the pavilion. Shuttle buses will circulate through the downtown area that morning to provide you with free transportation to Hubbard Park. For further information on transportation call the Senior Center Mini-Bus Office at 237-3338. Be sure not to miss this year�s Special Day for Special People on Saturday, June 13!

On Friday, May 15 twenty-four Senior Center members received certificates from Meriden Deputy Police Chief Tim Topulos and Lt. Sal Nesci for completing the 2009 Senior Citizen Police Academy. The five-week, ten hour class was held at the Senior Center and the Police Department and included trips to the State Police Forensic Lab on Colony Street and the Pratt Street Fire Station. Congratulations to Police Academy graduates Ellie Baum, Jean Benoit, Robert Dagata, Gloria Despres, Jean Ferry, Nancy Flagg, Charles French, Joyce Ladola, Pat LaFrambroise, Miriam MacGillivray, Art Mason, Mary Meskiewicz, Robert Monaghan, Kathy Orzech, Rose Pescatore, Dolores Petcavage, Tom Ravizza, Lillian Semolic, Lynn & Paul Sikora, Mickey & Roman Sikora, Gail Tino and Pat Torchia. Thank you for participating in the 2009 Senior Citizen Police Academy!

There are still 12 openings for the next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 22 and Friday, July 24 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. People can sign-up in the front office or by calling 237-0066. The program will be limited to the first 30 people who register so sign-up today!

Meriden-Wallingford Veterans Service Center Director George Messier�s monthly visits to reach out to Meriden veterans with information on veterans� benefits will continue on Tuesday, June 16 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the first floor meeting room at the Senior Center. He will be available to meet with veterans and family members. To reach him at other times in his office at the Wallingford Town Hall call 294-2165.

Enjoy the great weather and we�ll see you at Hubbard Park for Special Day for Special People on June 13!

John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
May 28, 2009

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Library News June 2009

2009-06-05T13:09:00.003-04:00

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

MERIDEN-WE'RE READY FOR SUMMER IN THE CHILDREN'S LIBRARY AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY.
Registration and FREE tickets will be available beginning June 8th in the Children's Library.
Summer programs will be held Monday evenings at 6:30 PM. and Thursday mornings at 10:30 AM. Programs are subject to change. Through the donation of the Friends of the Meriden Public Library the following programs will be held as folllows: Mon. June 22 Sirius Coyote-Songs and storiesSirius Coyote will take you on a musical journey. Thurs. June 25 Exotic Animals From Aound The World-Live animal show-3 and up Mon. June 29 Crazy Craig juggling and unicycle, comedy show Thurs. July 2 Movies at the library Mon. July 6 David Costello children's author and puppet show Thurs. July 9 Magic with Steve Wronker Mon. July 13 Yoyo Tricks by Eric.Come and let amaze you with his coordination and skill. Thurs. July 16 Grandpa's Attic Puppet Program Mon. July 20 Movie at the library Thurs. July 23 Birds of Prey Horizon Wings-Live bird show Mon. July 27 Vanilla Swirl Variety show with water! Thurs. July 30 Songs with Tom Seiling Mon. Aug. 3 Doug the Monkey Guy-Live Monkey performance. Thurs. Aug. 6 Flow Circus-juggling, magic, and comedy performance.

ROCKET CLUB FOR ALL STUDENTS (going into) GRADE FOUR AND UP.
Through the generous grant awarded by the Meriden & Wallingford Substance Abuse Council the library will once again be able to offer this program. Attendees will learn the aerodynamics of rockets. Rockets will be constructed, designed and painted. During the last couple of the sessions, the participants will launch their own rocket at least once. This will take place in two sessions July 6-9 and July 20-24 at 2:30-4:30 PM. Sign-up at the Meriden Public Library Children's Library in person. Space is limited to 12 per class.

Just a reminder: We will still be having Story Hours, Games, and Contests. For more information call us at (203) 630-6347 or e-mail us at mplchildrens@hotmail.com.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Wallingford Public Library News and Events

811.54 Poetry Workshop
Saturday, June 6
10:00 a.m. Board Room

Poetry enthusiasts are welcome to share their poetry and writing experiences at this workshop co-sponsored by the Meriden Poetry Society and the Meriden and Wallingford Public Libraries.

Special Appearance: Ernest Hemingway Alive!
Life Language and the Pursuit of Happiness
Thursday, June 11
7:00 p.m. Community Room

Professional actor Richard Clark will bring the genius of literary giant Ernest Hemingway to life in "Ernest Hemingway Alive! Life, Language and The Pursuit of Happiness," a one-man dramatic tour de force on Thursday, June 11 at 7:00 p.m.

Clark's portrayal reveals Hemingway's depth and passion as he reflects on the tumultuous middle years of the 20th century through the writer's eyes. Richard Clark has been acting professionally in theater and television for more than 30 years. He is noted for his recreations of historical figures ranging from William Shakespeare to Andrew Carnegie.

Ernest Hemingway is the author of such classics as The Old Man and The Sea, The Sun Also Rises and A Farewell To Arms. Although he appeared understated on paper, he certainly was not so in life. He was a dashing figure whose exploits in battle, bullfighting and booze shocked society and challenged ivory-tower notions of his writing life. Please reserve your seat for this show by contacting the library.Actor Richard Clark

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

Open House: Wallingford Library is participating in the Connecticut Open House Day Celebration with two special events:

Saturday, June 13
Summer Book Sale: Collins Room
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Starting at just fifty cents, exceptional buys on gently used popular fiction and nonfiction books for adults, teens and children will be available for purchase.

Film: Wallingford (England): The Story of an Ancient Town
2:00 p.m. (55 minutes) Community Room

This fascinating documentary captures all the colour, drama and excitement of Wallingford England�s long history, from its beginnings as one of Alfred the Great�s most important fortified towns to its recent roles as a home for atists and writers. See where Wallingford, CT got its name!

Thursday Night Book Club: �Away� by Amy Bloom
Thursday, June 18
7:00 p.m.
Collins Room

Panoramic in scope, Away is the epic and intimate story of young Lillian Leyb, a dangerous innocent, an accidental heroine. When her family is destroyed in a Russian pogrom, Lillian comes to America alone, determined to make her way in a new land. When word comes that her daughter, Sophie, might still be alive, Lillian embarks on an odyssey that takes her from the world of the Yiddish theater on New York�s Lower East Side, to Seattle�s Jazz District, and up to Alaska, along the fabled Telegraph Trail toward Siberia. All of the qualities readers love in Amy Bloom�s work� her humor and wit, her elegant and irreverent language, her unflinching understanding of passion and the human heart� come together in the embrace of this brilliant novel, which is at once heartbreaking, romantic, and completely unforgettable. (From the author�s website.) Copies of this book are available from our catalog.

Our Thursday Night Book Club is an informal gathering for fans of fiction and popular nonfiction. Each month a book is selected for group discussion and all are welcome to come and share their thoughts about authors, writing styles, plots, and themes. It�s all about the book however light refreshments are offered! No registration is required.

A New Summer Reading Program for Adults Begins Next Month
July 1st to September 1st
Get ready to Book Your Summer @ the Library!

Beginning July 1st and running to September 1st, our summer reading program for adults offers you the opportunity to travel with the library no matter where you choose to go! This summer our theme is �Book Your Summer at the Library.� Each week we will give readers the chance to win a WPL Book Bag and each month we will have a drawing for a travel themed gift bag. Details on how to enter will be forthcoming. Please stop by the library and request your entry forms. In addition, we will be featuring some great travel stories and �book to movies� on Wednesday afternoons at 2:00 p.m. beginning July 1st.
Please remember, our print and audio/visual materials are portable and we�re always accessble 24/7 via our website: http://www.wallingford.lioninc.org/

On Display!

� Be sure to look for our brand new acquisitions at the �Straight Out of the Box� display featuring brand new books we�ve just unpacked.
� Staff Picks! See what our staff is reading this summer. Selected books will be on display opposite the Information Desk.

Customized Computer Instruction: You Tell us What You Want to Know
Beginning June 3rd
Sign up Now!

From basic computer instruction to advanced Internet searching, Wallingford Public Library can help you become familiar with a computer and increase your level of computer knowledge with free one-on-one computer instruction beginning June 3rd. Instruction is available from library volunteers Wednesday mornings at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Learn keyboard or mouse skills, word processing, or Internet searching; become familiar with applying for jobs online and learn how to create a free e-mail account. Instruction is free and open to the public; however due to high demand, sessions fill up quickly. Please call the library at (203)265-6754 or stop by the Information Desk for more information or to register for a session.

Upcoming Free Movie Events at Wallingford Public Library

We�ve got another bumper pair of movies for you over the next month. All are welcome to attend any of the following (but please be aware of the ratings!) No need to register � just turn up on the night to enjoy our big screen experience.

Cinema Club presents Revolutionary Road
Tuesday June 2nd at 6:30 p.m.
Community Room

In Revolutionary Road, Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio reunite for the first time since their careers exploded with Titanic--and it's almost as if they're playing the same characters, only married and faced with the hollowness of a 1950s suburban existence. Frank and April Wheeler always thought of themselves as special, but they settled in a conventional Connecticut suburb when they had children. The portrait of a mismatched marriage is vivid and devastating. Winslet and DiCaprio's natural chemistry tells us what drew these two together, making the way they tear each other apart all the more shocking.

Discussion to follow movie. Refreshments will be served. Rated: R

The glorious Winslet defines what makes an actress great, blazing commitment to a character and the range to make every nuance felt. Winslet's last scene is emotionally devastating. This movie takes a piece out of you. Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

Friday Flicks Night presents Gran Torino
Friday June 19th at 6:30 p.m.
Community Room

Clint Eastwood's Gran Torino was quietly rolled out at Christmas 2008, whereupon it proceeded to blow away all the Oscar-bait behemoths at the box office and win its 78-year-old star the best reviews of his acting career. Eastwood plays a disgruntled Korean War vet, Walt Kowalski, who sets out to reform his neighbor, a young Hmong teenager, who tried to steal Kowalski's prized possession: his 1972 Gran Torino. Both film and performance are consummately sly--coming on with deceptive simplicity, only to evolve into something complex, powerful, and surprisingly tender. Just as Unforgiven was a tragic reflection on Eastwood's legacy in the Western genre, Gran Torino caps and eloquently critiques the urban heritage of Dirty Harry and his violent brethren. And on top of that, the movie becomes a savvy meditation on America in a particular historical moment, racially, economically, spiritually. Call it a "state of the union" message. But call it that with a wry grin. This is a remarkable movie.

Refreshments will be served. Rated: R

A lifetime in movies runs through this prime vintage Eastwood performance. You can't take your eyes off him. The no-frills, no-bull Gran Torino made my day. Peters Travers, Rolling Stone

TEEN ZONE

Book Your Summer @ the Library!

This Summer is booked with fun, free stuff for Teens to do at the Library. We have fun Wii Tournaments, Anime and Manga discussions, movies, book trivia contests, and concerts. All Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join any event all Summer long. For each book you read over vacation you will be entered into a weekly drawing for a prize. The more you read, the better your chances! The reading incentive program will run from July 2nd through September 2nd. We look forward to seeing you at the Library over the Summer!

Yoga for Teens is Back!
Fridays in June: 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
3:30 p.m.
Community Room

The library is thrilled to announce that Yoga for Teens is back with Zorayda Cocchi, licensed occupational therapist and certified YogaKids associate. Teens in grades 6 through 12 are welcome to participate in this free program. Increase your flexibility, build your self-esteem, and increase your physical strength while having fun! Please bring a youga mat or beach towel and dress comfortably. There is no charge however, registration is recommended.

The Great Scavenger Hunt Contest
Looking for something great and fun to read this Summer? The library�s Teen Department is a part of YA Author Kay Cassidy�s Great Sacenger Hunt Contest. There are over 200 books in the competition. Chances are one of the books you pick up today in the Teen Area is a part of the Contest! When you check out the particpating book, come to the Information Desk and and pick up the trivia questions written by the authors themselves. Answer the ten questions pertaiinig to the book and return them to the Library. For every answer sheet you submint you are entered to win a $50.00 Barnes and Noble gift card! There is a new drawing each month. For a list of the particpating titles and questions to to www.kaycassidy.com/hunt. Please stop by the Information Desk for more details.

Wallingford Public Library Mission Statement
The mission of the Wallingford Public Library is to acquire, organize and make available books and other resources for the educational, informational, recreational, and inspirational needs of the entire Wallingford Community. The Library will provide service in a pleasant, accessible, well equipped facility and utilize current technology to offer convenient access to resources from remote locations. The Library will provide all service with the assistance of an experienced, professional and helpful staff.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

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The Wallingford Energy Conservation Commission has donated three Kill A Watt energy meters to the Wallingford Public Library. The Meters can be used by individuals or businesses to guage the energy consumption and efficiency of their appliances, and are available for a two week loan at the Library�s Information Desk.

In May 2008, the Town Council formed the Wallingford Energy Conservation Commission. The group�s mission is to help the town reduce its energy footprint.

Commission Co-Chair Mike Brodinsky commented, �The devices we donated to the library will help residents measure the amount of energy their appliances are using. The meter also translates that amount into the actual costs which it shows on the display. When you know what it costs, you may find ways to be more energy efficient.�

One of the Energy Conservation Commission�s other initiatives is to explore how the Town can save on energy by making the school buildings more energy efficient. Members are nearing completion of an ambitious benchmarking program of all the schools to determine which buildings are most in need energy conservation measures. The next step will be to turn the information into concrete measures which may save energy, money, and be better for the environment.
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MUSIC PROGRAM JUNE 20 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

Join us for a musical afternoon as John Root presents his program �Popular Music of the Gaslight Era (1890-1920)� on Saturday, June 20 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room at Meriden Public Library. Mr. Root will perform a wonderful selection of instrumental and vocal musical styles from the turn of the previous century. Singing along is encouraged! You will learn how America�s ethnic and racial diversity created unique musical styles that continue to delight and inspire audiences around the world.

John Root, a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, is the founding leader and creator of the �Swingtime Quartet� and �Swingtime Sextet� which have performed throughout New England as well as the founder of the Pioneer Valley Jazz Society Big Band. Mr. Root is an instructor of piano and woodwinds for students of all ages and a faculty member of the Community Music School of Springfield, Northampton Community Music School, and Deerfield Academy; music instructor at Northampton Center for Children and Families, a residential school for adolescents; and presenter of clinics in ear training and improvisation for secondary school instrumental ensembles. He is the owner and operator of �Our House�, a home daycare facility featuring the arts, creative play, and outdoor adventure. He taught at Booker T. Washington Junior High School in Baltimore, MD as a secondary school science teacher and was leader of an arts-oriented church youth group in Amherst, MA.

The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit our homepage at http://www.meridenlibrary.org/ and click on �Adult events� to reserve a seat.
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PROGRAM ON ISLAM AND MUSLIMS JUNE 16 AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

�This is a land of Christians and Muslim, Jews and Hindus, � proclaimed President Obama in his inaugural speech. To help us understand the changes taking place in our American melting pot, Dr. Shadee M. Elmasry will speak at Meriden Public Library on Tuesday, June 16 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room on the topic �What is Islam and who are Muslims.� Everyday Muslims are growing in number in America. Every day, Islam and Muslims are in the news. Isn�t it time that we examined what Islam is and who Muslims are? What do they believe? What do they do? This talk will examine these questions and more. Come with a pen and notebook and feel free to ask Dr. Elmasry any question about this topic.

Dr. Shadee M. Elmasry is the Visiting Professor of Arabic at Trinity College in Hartford. He was born and raised in New Jersey and studied Islam in Morocco, Egypt, Makka, Medina, Yemen, and completed a PhD from the University of London. He now resides in Meriden with his wife and two children.

The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library�s website at http://www.meridenlibrary.org/ and click on �Adult events� to reserve a seat and view our program calendar.
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WITCHCRAFT BOOK LECTURE JUNE 26 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY
Lewis Turco, local author and Meriden Hall of Fame inductee, will be presenting his lecture �The Wallingford Witchcrafts of Colonial America� at the Meriden Public Library on Friday, June 26 at noon in the Griffin Room. Mr. Turco�s lecture will be excerpted from his newly released book �Satan�s Scourge: a Narrative of the Age of Witchcraft in England and America 1580-1697.� The book, �Satan�s Scourge,� focuses on the Putnam family of Buckinghamshire, England, from the birth of John Putnam in 1580 to the witchcraft era of Salem Village, MA in 1692. It looks at all the witchcraft cases in England and New England from 1580 to 1697.

Mr. Turco moved to Meriden when he was five, graduated from Meriden High School in 1952 and served in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1956. After the Navy, Mr. Turco earned his B.A. from the University of Connecticut in 1959 and his M.A. from the University of Iowa in 1962. He was
founding director of both the Cleveland State University Poetry Center (1962) and the Program in Writing Arts at S.U.N.Y. Oswego (1968). In 1992 he received a Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Alumni Association of the University of Connecticut; he was inducted into the Meriden, Connecticut, Hall of Fame in 1993, and in 1999 he received the John Ciardi Award for lifetime achievement in poetry sponsored by the periodical Italian Americana and the National Italian American Foundation. In May 2000 Mr. Turco received an honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, from Ashland University in Ohio. In June 2004 he was honored with a panel and gave a reading at the West Chester University Poetry Conference in Pennsylvania where a festschrift, "Lewis Turco and His Work: A Celebration," edited by Dr. Steven E. Swerdfeger, Ph.D., was published by Star Cloud. In 2007 the Conference gave him its Robert Fitzgerald Prosody Award. He is listed in "Who's Who in America."

The program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit our homepage at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on �Adult events� to reserve a seat.
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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!

BOOKMOBILE SCHEDULE
The Bookmobile, or Library on Wheels, will be visiting the following facilities in June:

Tuesday, June 2 - Catholic Charities 9:00 to 10:00 AM;
Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:15 to 11:00 AM;
Wednesday, June 3 - Carriage House Day Care Center (pick up) 9:30 to 10:00 AM;
Meriden Center 10:30 to 11:30 AM;
Thursday, June 4 � Meriden Senior Center 10:00 to 10:30 AM;
Connecticut Baptist Home (box drop off) 3:00 to 3:30 PM;
Friday, June 5 - Stork Club 9:30 to 10:30 AM;
Miller Memorial 10:45 to 11:30 AM; Home deliveries 2:00 to 2:30 PM:
Monday, June 8 � Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 to 10:00 AM;
Women and Families Center 10:15 to 11:15 AM; Village at Kensington Place 1:30 to 2:00 PM;
Tuesday, June 9 � Lil Rascals Day Care Center 9:15 to 9:45 AM;
Thursday, June 11 � Kindercare 9:30 to 10:15 AM;
The Right Place 10:30 to 11:00 AM.
Tuesday, June 16 �Sunshine Daycare 10:15 to 10:45 AM;
Wednesday, June 17 � Easter Seals (Broad St.) 9:00 to 10:15 AM;
Bradley Home 10:20 to 11:00 AM;
Thursday, June 18 � Head Start (Liberty St.) 9:30 to 11:30 AM;
Tuesday, June 23 - Catholic Charities 9:00 to 10:00 AM;
Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:15 to 11:00 AM;
Friday, June 26 - Stork Club 9:30 to 10:30 AM;
Miller Memorial 10:45 to 11:30 AM;
Monday, June 29 � Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 to 10:00 AM;
Women and Families Center 10:15 to 11:15 AM; Village at Kensington Place 1:30 to 2:00 PM;
Tuesday, June 30 � Lil Rascals Day Care Center 9:15 to 9:45 AM.
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�FOOD FOR FINES� DURING JULY AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

Meriden Public Library will hold a �Food for Fines� month beginning Wednesday, July 1 through Friday, July 31. If you are returning late items, bring in at least one non-perishable food item for each item you are returning late. As of July 1, if you owe more than $5.00 to the library for lost/damaged items or overdue fines, your computer and borrowing privileges will be suspended until your account has been paid down.

If you have overdue fines on your account already, these can also be �paid� with a non-perishable item. Sorry, but food donations do not cover lost or damaged library materials. Bring in those long overdue DVD�s, cd�s, books, etc. and clear up those fines. Borrowers must visit the Circulation Desk in person to take advantage of this opportunity. All food collected will be delivered to local food pantries. Food items most needed are tuna, dry milk, boxed pasta products, tomato items, juices, and cereals.

Contact the Meriden Library at (203) 238-2344 or (203) 630-6349 if you have questions.

�PICTURING AMERICA� AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Meriden Public Library has received the �Picturing America� collection from the National Endowment for the Humanities, in partnership with the American Library Association. The purpose of this innovative program is to help teach American history through images of American art.

�Picturing America� consists of 40 high quality reproductions by Americans which portray people, places and events that have shaped our history. One of the reproductions in the collection is a picture of a �Diament Teapot�, 1928, designed by Gene Theobald, and produced in Meriden by the Wilcox Silver Plate Company.

Half of the �Picturing America� collection will be on display in the hallway towards the Children�s Library and in the Griffin Room. The collection will be changed in the fall to display the rest of the pictures. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about this or any other program at the Meriden Public Library.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

June 2009 Health News and Events

2009-06-05T12:46:00.003-04:00

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/. We are your NewsMagazine!

News from the American Heart and Stroke Association

American Heart Association Scientific Statements:

Videoconferencing can increase patient access to stroke specialists; immediate, thorough testing needed after �mini� strokes High-quality videoconferencing can increase patient access to stroke specialists, especially in rural and other underserved areas, and a transient ischemic attack (TIA), once known as a �mini� or �warning� stroke, should be treated with the same urgency as a full-blown stroke, according to two separate scientific statements and a policy statement published today in Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association.

American College of Cardiology/ American Heart Association joint science advisory:

More patients needed in clinical trials to find treatment for heart condition linked to certain strokes

The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology are calling on doctors to enroll more patients in clinical trials for catheter-based closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO), a condition caused when an opening between the two chambers of the heart fails to close at birth. Due to a lack of conclusive research on the management of PFO after stroke or transient ischemic attack, there is currently no clearly established treatment for this condition.

Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association

Walking often and far reduces risks in heart patients
An exercise program that burns a lot of calories reduced cardiac risk factors better than standard cardiac rehabilitation in overweight coronary patients, researchers report.
American Heart Association policy position statement: Comparative effectiveness research should inform decision making. Comparative effectiveness research should inform clinical decision making and enhance value for patients and the healthcare delivery system, according to an American Heart Association policy statement published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association.
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Meriden Health Department News and Events

It�s Spring Time � Let�s Start Walking!
Want to start your own walking program this spring? The Meriden Health Department can help! The Community Health Education office will be distributing free pedometers and walking logs every Tuesday in June as part of the Meriden Movers community walking program. Pedometers will be distributed June 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 starting at 5:30-6:00pm in front of the red bridge at the Quinnipiac River Linear Trail in South Meriden. Educational materials will also be available. When you get your pedometer, enjoy a walk down the trail! In the event of rain the walk will be cancelled. Call 630-4238 for more information.

Babysitters Training
The Meriden Health Department, Division of Youth Services, will be offering a Babysitters Training in July and August (dates and times will be announced). Learn about the basics of babysitting including ages and stages, basic care, safety, handling emergencies, and more! This is a free educational program designed for kids ages 11-15 years old. If you are interested and would like more information, please contact Jodie Schmidt at 639-5059.

Take a Hike - National Trails Day is June 6, 2009
Come celebrate National Trails Day on Saturday, June 6 from 10:00-11:30am at Dossin Beach Park, directly across the street from the Quinnipiac River Linear Walking Trail (Red Bridge) in Meriden. Meriden�s National Trail Partners will showcase educational exhibits, informational handouts and be on hand to answer your questions on Meriden�s natural resources and environmental issues.

Meriden�s National Trail Partners include the Meriden Conservation Commission, Meriden Land Trust, Quinnipiac River Watershed Association, and the Meriden Linear Trails Committee. In addition, the Meriden Health Department�s Meriden Movers community walking program will be giving out 50 free pedometers and walking logs to attendees (first come, first serve). The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association, as part of National Water Trails Day, will be providing canoe and kayak rides.

Wear your walking shoes and enjoy a morning walk down the trail. Light refreshments will be served. Bring the family and enjoy a great day outside!

CPR Friends and Family Program
Have you ever wanted to learn CPR but don�t have the time to sit in a long class or need certification? Hunters Ambulance and the Meriden Health Department will be offering the American Heart Association Friends and Family CPR program on June 25 from 3-4 and 4-5pm. In this class you will learn how to provide life-saving care to someone suffering from cardiac arrest or who is choking. The cost of the course is $30, which covers the cost of your very own Friends and Family kit to take home with you and teach others how to do CPR. Please call Hunters Ambulance at 514-5142 to register. Please register at least 3 days prior to the course. This course does not certify you in CPR, and no cards will be given.

Women�s Total Cholesterol Screening
Free total cholesterol screenings are available to women who live in Meriden. Screenings will be held on June 9, from 9:30-11:30am, and on June 25 from 1:30-3:30pm. Screenings are held at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street. Appointments for the screening are required, and are first come, first serve. Call 630-4234 to make your appointment. Screenings are funded by a women�s healthy heart grant through the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!
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Diabetes: The Fastest Growing Epidemic in America. Are You At Risk?
By Lisa Zola, MS, MSN, APRN-BC

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the prevalence of diabetes has become epidemic in this country. Today, nearly 24 million children and adults have the disease and nearly 6 million people are unaware that they may have it. Another 57 million people have elevated blood glucose levels and are considered to have pre-diabetes. In just the past decade alone, the number of new cases of diabetes has increased by 90% and it is now estimated that one in three Americans born in the year 2000 will develop the disease in their lifetime.

What exactly is diabetes? Diabetes can be defined as a condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin, as seen in type 1 diabetes, or does not properly utilize insulin, resulting in insulin resistance, and eventual insulin deficiency as seen in type 2 diabetes. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreatic beta-cells, acts like a key to allow glucose to enter the cells where it is then used as fuel. When our body fails to properly use insulin, we end up with high levels of glucose in our blood. The problem with having too much glucose in the blood is that it makes the blood �sticky� and therefore, blood is unable to flow into the capillaries, which are the body�s smallest blood vessels. As a consequence, people with diabetes are at particular risk for cardiovascular disease, renal disease, vascular disease, and eye disorders.

Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because often times its symptoms go unnoticed. However, early detection and treatment is extremely important in order to decrease the chances of developing the complications associated with diabetes. Some symptoms of diabetes include: excessive thirst, excessive hunger, excessive urination, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue, blurry vision, and irritability. The criteria for establishing the diagnosis of diabetes includes symptoms along with a random blood glucose level equal to or greater than 200 mg/dl; a fasting (at least 8 hours) blood glucose equal or greater than 126 mg/dl; or a 2-hour post-load glucose equal or greater than 200 mg/dl. Each of these criteria must be confirmed at least twice, unless overt symptoms of hyperglycemia are present. In addition, a fasting blood glucose between 100 mg/dl and 125 mg/dl signals pre-diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association has established risk factors for diabetes. These are:
� Family history of diabetes
� Age ? 45
� BMI ? 25 kg/m�
� Physical inactivity
� Ethnicity (African American, Latino, Native American, Asian American)
� Previously identified pre-diabetes
� History of gestational diabetes or delivery of a baby weighing >9 pounds
� High blood pressure (? 140/90 mm/Hg)
� HDL-C ? 35 mg/dl and/or triglycerides ? 250 mg/dl
� Clinical condition associated with insulin resistance (PCOS, acanthosis nigricans)
� History of vascular disease

Fortunately, there is good news amidst this growing epidemic. Type 2 diabetes is both treatable and preventable. Conventional treatment such as oral medications and insulin is typically how diabetes is managed; however, lifestyle changes may allow many people to put diabetes in remission or even avoid it altogether. Clinical trials such as the Diabetes Prevention Program study conclusively show that making dietary changes and increasing physical activity can make a huge difference in warding off diabetes. There are many dietary modifications that can be made, but simply by incorporating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet and limiting intake of processed foods and sugar sweetened beverages/soft drinks, the risk for diabetes can be decreased by more than 60%! Additionally, physical activity has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing the risk of diabetes. Regular exercise not only improves your body�s ability to use insulin and lower blood glucose levels, but it also helps to manage weight and reduce stress, both of which can actually raise blood glucose levels. Last, but certainly not least, studies have shown that a modest weight loss of even 5-10% of your overall body weight can enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels, as well as improve blood lipids and blood pressure.

When considering making lifestyle changes, it is important to understand that it is a process that takes place over time. There simply is no such thing as a quick fix when it comes to treating diabetes. While medications are useful for controlling symptoms, unfortunately, they do not treat the underlying cause of the disease. Small changes really do add up, and making just a few small changes in your lifestyle can have a big impact on your health.

Lisa Zola is a clinical nutritionist and owner of Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC,
a nutrition center located in uptown Wallingford. For questions or to schedule an appointment she can be reached at 203.269.2852.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!
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Join Us for Coffee & Conversation

The Center for Successful Aging and MidState�s LaPlanche Clinic will be jointly sponsoring the next Coffee and Conversation on Monday, June 22 from 1:00 to 2:30pm at the Meriden Senior Center, 22 West Main Street.

This month�s event will feature a program called �All That Jazz: Jazz Throughout the Years�. Brian Cyr, a music teacher at Maloney High School, will talk about playing jazz music and how it has evolved over the years.

This program is part of a monthly coffee and conversation series that is held at the Senior Center. Programs are free and open to the public, and of course, coffee and refreshments will be served. Please call Jackie at 237-0300 or Rita at 630-4222 for more information.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

Advertising Deadlines

2009-05-21T12:51:00.003-04:00

June 2009 Issue Deadline

2009-05-15T17:19:00.001-04:00

The deadline for our June 2009 issue is May 27th for all of your news, stories, photos and more! Don't forget to send Dad a special message. Email your submissions to andy@peoplespressnews.com or go to www.peoplespressnews.com and press the submit button. Have a great weekend! Andy

Your Stories May 2009

2009-05-07T10:34:00.003-04:00

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

The fruits of Motherhood are the Children!

By Priscilla Reynolds

Such sentimental romantic gifts are given to the lucky Mothers on that special day in May, Mothers Day. Are we all worthy of this show of affection? More than likely, we take it for granted. Babies are God's miracles and women have hormonal and nurturing qualities that draw them to their new borns. Fathers are proud; Mothers are ecstatic.

Babies grow up. The parents who once kept their children in close surveillance must let go. Children still need supervision and religious training. This is when our four parents' rules and our environmental influences challenge us. Mrs. Taylor, next door, might oppose our baseball practice in the backyard with occasional hits sending the children searching for the ball in her bushes. Mr. Pope seems to completely let go of his children and toys are taken from the neighbors' garages without permission. Birthday parties can be chaotic.

My husband, Lew, and I enjoyed the children most when the birthday parties were small. Dave, our oldest son, and Dan, our third child, were born four years apart but their birthdays were a day apart close to the Labor Day weekend. (I don't want to bore my children or my readers but I have to interject that Dan was the product of my most difficult labor and was delivered, coincidentally on Labor Day!) And so our Labor Day celebration included the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins and the two birthday boys and their siblings.

Lew and I considered the birth of each of our six children over an eleven year stretch party enough, with the births 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 years apart. We invested our energy first and foremost on God and our family but also on our jobs, postal and nursing. It's not easy to remember the personal milestones for each child and this, I deeply regret. Photographs spill out of our bedroom closet anxious to be sorted, copied and distributed to each of our children.

Cathy celebrated her eighth birthday with 10 girlfriends, mostly from our neighborhood. She always wanted a sister and at this time we didn't know whater the next and last child would be Beth or Andy. (Cathy became a second Mother to Andy when he was born.) Having so many females on the same block was helpful to Cathy as she coped with her five brothers growing up.

Matthew, our fourth child, remembers vividly his seventh birthday. He tells us, "Everyone: Gram Reynolds, Gram and Grandpa Roger, Aunt Esther, Dave, Cathy, Dan, Paul, Andy, Dad, Mom and I ate supper at Howard Johnson's. When we returned home, Mom, you couldn't find your key. We hunted everywhere first for the key, then for a way to get in. You were mad, Mom, but you wouldn't call the police .Dad helped lift Dave up through a small kitchen window and the key lay on the kitchen table next to my birthday cake. That was the year Dad let me choose a kitten--our red headed Pumpkin, who lived 15 more years."

It's strange but Paul and Andy's parties took place more in their teen age when Lew and I had more problems controlling the events.

I do recall a party for Paul and Andy at six and eight, consecutively with a few of their boyfriends. Our hands were busy but our minds still watched and cared for our two sons. However, after the departure of their friends one snake cage was empty. Our children loved animals and at this time, Trixie, our dog, Pumpkin and Raquel, our cats shared our house with three garter snakes. We hunted everywhere for the snake. Great Aunt Esther was coming for supper to celebrate with the boys. Just a month ago, she screamed as she came in; the front door scrunched a small painted turtle. Less than a year ago she dropped her cane and lost her balance as she watched a chameleon climb the wall. We never found the snake and Gram and Grandpa joined us for supper and more cake.

Am I still worthy of being honored on Mothers Day? As of this moment, my aching bones and forgetfulness are part of me. Two other delinquencies are my failure in journalling the past events of my children's and grandchildren's lives and the chaotic boxes of pictures crying out to be completed.

Yet I am blessed! No other gift is necessary--the spiritual growth of our children and our grandchildren is enough!

Kids� Press
Zachary Brown
By Zachary Boganski
Age 9 � 4th Grade Highland School
This is the story of Zachary Brown he never grows up and always grows down.
He ate lots of junk food and smoked cigarettes.
His diet was worse than you would feed to your pets.
He never worked out and he wasn�t athletic.
He shrunk every day now. He looks quiet pathetic.
This story is alarming but it�s all true.
Be careful or it might just happen to you.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Maggie�s Corner

By: Maggie Griffin

Mom, what is it like to be a Mother?
Wow, I never thought I would hear my 16 year old daughter ask me that question now. In fact, I wasn�t expecting that question for another 10-15 years from now.

For all the Moms out there, do you remember that famous question from your kids when they were at Nursery School age - �Mom, where did I come from?� That was difficult to answer back then. But these are the questions and talks that Moms really treasure the most.

Let me tell you how I recently answered this question and how the question came about from my daughter, Stephanie. You see, my husband decided to take the week off, calling it a vacation, and be home the week the kids were home from school. My Maytag Dishwasher decides to take a turn for the worse. It figures, Mr. Fix it is on vacation, leaving me and Stephanie washing and drying the dishes.

So I was telling her how many years ago, my nightly chore was drying the dishes as my Mother washed them. Now, if my Mother reads this, she will include how I always had that famous �Sony Walkman� to my ears, drying the dishes. It use to annoy my Mom, but I never understood why until I finally realized that today�s �Sony Walkman� is now the IPod that is surgically attached to your kids ears.

And then I told that story to my daughter, as I took the ear plugs off Stephanie�s ears, laughing. So she asked me what it is like to be a Mom. Well now, this is a delicate question to answer. So I was honest.

Being a Mom is constant worry. There is no age limit of when being a Mom ends as being a Mom is for life. As I told Stephanie, being a Mom also means that we want are kids to do as we say, not as we did. Being a Mom also means never ask Grand Ma what your Mom was like at your age. Being a Mom is gifts that as our kids grow; it is harder and harder to let them go spread their own wings in life. But a Mom is always there, unconditionally, no matter what, a Mom is for life.

Now my son Tommy�s definition of being a Mom (I said definition, not a question he asked to be answered) was �And a Mom is someone who likes to get into their kid�s business and know everything�. I looked over at my son and told him that is true and I still have that eye in the back of my head I told you really does exist a long time ago. He then said, �Mom, you told me you knew Santa personally a long time ago too�.

Being a Mom means telling your kids, when they are toddlers so they don�t get hurt, �NO, don�t touch that�. Let�s call a spade of spades, eventually they learn �NO� so much, that when you tell your kids as they are older to do their chores, they tell you �NO�. This leaves me to a future thought. When the day comes that I become a Grand Ma, watching my grand children when they are in the curiosity stage, when they go to the vacuum cleaner, I will simply say �NO, Mommy Said Don�t Ever Touch That�.

Being a Mom also means �stop yourself when you find yourself sounding like your Mom�. It also means �stop your kids when you see your kids act like you when you where their age�. Let�s all admit it, all Moms seem to follow that pattern where we don�t want to be like our Mothers, but we also don�t want out kids to repeat the same actions and mistakes we did either. But, the circle of life seems to be a stronger hold on us because everything, as a Mom, does turn around in full circle and history repeats itself.

Again, this conversation all started over my dishwasher, made by Maytag, breaking. Did anyone ever wonder why they don�t play those �You will never have to call Mr. Maytag Guy to fix an appliance�? That�s because Mr. Maytag doesn�t exist, worse in my house, Mr. Fix It is on vacation.

Getting back to what being a Mom is like; it�s like another day in paradise. I wouldn�t have it any other way. We want what is best for our kids; we want our kids to be better than us. We will trade the world to protect our kids too.

As our kids grow up, we hold onto the moments when they were smaller, asking ourselves where did all the years go. But we never miss a moment as they grow up. We somehow see ourselves in our kids at times too. So to all those Moms out there, ask yourself and tell your kids what being a Mom is like in your eyes and from your heart.

And if you have a Mother like mine, immediately interrupt her when she tells your kids �When Your Mother Was Your Age�..� I remember asking my Mom and Dad where I came from when I was little. They told me Aliens left me in their back yard. For years I thought I was a science project. Worse, I was always referred to as #6 or �hey you�. That�s what you get for being the youngest of 6 children, either that or name tags.

Now that I think of it, it�s no wonder my Mom still doesn�t have a dishwasher. But my Mom, she is a pistol. I will never let anyone insult my Mother in any way, shape or form. I just want to add, �Mom if you are reading this, I am wearing the head phones on my ears listening to music as I am writing�. Tradition never changes.

But Moms, treasure your kids, they truly are a gift and always remember that the best things in life is life itself. God knows my kids are the best gifts I hold, and I will hold my two children forever. A Mother is for life. A Maytag Dishwasher ends its life a month after the warranty expires.

I am turning 40 this month too. If Mr. Fix It, a.k.a. Mr. Griffin, buys me a new dishwasher for my 40th birthday, he better include an IPod and Domino�s Pizza. To me, and to add, being a Mom is also reminding the Dad the long hours of labor I went through to bring his children into this world.

But, in all honesty, in my heart, to me the greatest experience that I still have, and will always have, is being a Mom. So this Mother�s Day, the year and same month I turn 40, I want to thank my Kids for making me their Mom. If it wasn�t for them born to me, I wouldn�t be celebrating Mother�s Day with my kids.

Happy Mother�s Day to All the Moms around the World!

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Giant Tag Sale at The Willows In Wallingford
Benefits American Cancer Society
The Relay for Life Big Green Team will use proceeds to help �kick cancer one goal at a time�
On Sunday, April 26th the local Relay for Life Big Green team held a giant tag sale at The Willows single family community at 751 North Farms Road in Wallingford. All proceeds were donated to the American Cancer Society�s annual Relay for Life.

The week before the sale, Big Green team leaders and local business owners, Sandy and Jim Comeau of Wallingford Optical and Greg Kamens of VW Homes collected donations of furniture and other household items at The Willows sales center.

�Everyone has been touched by cancer,� said Greg. �My father died of cancer, and my mother is a cancer survivor, so the Relay for Life is very personal for me. I�m thrilled that VW Homes� partners Bob Wiedenmann and Liz and Gerald Verna offered The Willows model home for our tag sale.�

The Big Green Team will be participating in the Meriden/Wallingford Relay for Life at Platt High School in Meriden on May 29th and 30th. Go Big Green!

About Relay for Life � Relay for Life is a fun-filled overnight event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society. During the event, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds, or parks and take turns walking or running laps. Each team tries to keep at least one team member on the track at all times.

About The Willows � The Willows http://www.thewillowsct.com/ is a new old-fashioned community of 65 single family homes, located on North Farms Road between the center of Wallingford and Route 68. VW Homes is building The Willows with smaller lots and sidewalks on both sides of the street to encourage walking and getting to know neighbors. The Willows is the first large single family community developed in town since 1995.

Barb�s Family

Submitted by Alan Murphy
Foster Adoptive Mission

You may have seen her on her way to work or in a grocery store and noticed her friendly and welcoming smile. She may look a lot like one of your friends or neighbors. She might even look a bit like you. What sets her apart is that this woman, Barbara, has been a foster parent since 2002.

�I always knew I wanted to work with children,� Barbara explains. �And the 30 years I spent teaching special education were tremendously gratifying. Yet I always wanted to do more. Being a foster parent has allowed me to make more of an impact. Together with my family, I have been able to change the lives of children from all different backgrounds and a variety of circumstances. There are challenges, to be sure�as every foster parent will tell you�but the rewards have been beyond what I would ever have expected.�

There are currently 513,000 children in the foster care system in the United States, and there is a dire need for committed, caring adults willing to take these children into their homes over the short or longer term. In her seven years as a foster parent, Barbara and her husband have taken in 25 children for stays ranging
from a few days to nine months. They have adopted two of these children (one a toddler and the other a teenager), who are now a permanent part of a family that also includes Barbara�s two college-age biological sons and, at present, one additional foster child.

After having done this for seven years, Barbara tells us: �Now, I wish we had made the decision to start even earlier. Each one of these children has contributed to our home and family life in a special way.�

Barbara is especially grateful for the FAST program, which sends professionals into foster homes to help address the children�s unique needs. She tells us that the first few days of a placement can be especially trying, as children act out in different ways and can be particularly needy when first separated from a parent. FAST provides the information and support Barbara and her family need to make the transition as smooth as possible. �The reward is when the child begins to trust you,� Barbara says. �The first time he comes to you for comfort or she places her head on you. Those are the moments that make everything worthwhile�just knowing that you have created a safe and loving place for this youngster. For some of these children, the time they spend in our home is their first experience of a healthy, nurturing environment. We show them the sort of home life they deserve. And I don�t mean with regard to home size or material possessions; I mean having a place to live where everyone has your best interests at heart. A place where you know from one moment to the next what to expect and don�t have to live with fear or hunger or neglect.�

Barbara�s eyes light up as she speaks of a three-year-old currently in her care: �She is so bright and says the funniest things. She has been identified as gifted by the teachers at the nursery school she attends, which doesn�t surprise me at all. I�ve met with this little girl�s mother, and she has so much potential. We are all hoping she will be able to turn things around and be reunited with her child. Until then, she knows her child is in a loving home.�

The most difficult part of being a foster parent, according to Barbara, is seeing the children leave, especially when there is no contact afterwards. �It�s not possible to adopt every child,� Barbara says, �and of course we worry about the children after they�ve left our home. We just have to take comfort in the fact that, for as long as we had them, we loved them and gave them a stable, structured family life. Sometimes, we are able to keep track of a child when he or she leaves. One of the children was adopted by her grandparent, and we get together and talk on the phone often. It is such a joy to know this child is in a caring home and is being given a good chance for a healthy and happy life.

�
What makes an ideal foster parent? According to Barbara, there is no one formula other than enjoying children, being able to provide a loving home, and being willing to fight for what they need. Barbara considers foster parenting her calling and encourages others to join her in providing a temporary home for one or more of the thousands of local children in need.

Foster parenting is a commitment�and an opportunity to make a big difference in a child�s life. FAM (Foster Adoptive Mission) has presented this vignette of Barbara�s experiences as a foster parent in hopes of encouraging other caring adults to reach out to children in difficult circumstances. If you have any interest in becoming a foster parent, please call FAM today for more information. There is no obligation. Your timing couldn�t be better: May is National Foster Care Month. Please call FAM at 860.949.4061 or 203.706.0101. There is a child out there who needs you.

Please note: To protect the privacy of children in the foster care system and their foster families, FAM (Foster Adoptive Mission) prefers they remain anonymous in most instances. In the case of this article we have omitted the last name of the foster parent and have been given permission to use the foster parent�s first name.
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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

The 75th Anniversary Party of the Meriden Poetry Society

It was a bright day for the The Meriden Poetry Society�s 75th anniversary party at Gallery 53 on April 5th . Within walls adorned by Dick McEvoy�s colorful abstract and impressionistic art, gallery staff, poets, photographers, guests and The Humble Bees quintet set the stage for a festive occasion.

Guests, gradually flowing in from the sun-filled afternoon, soon occupied all the seats and overflowed toward the back of the gallery where a table loaded with cookies and an anniversary cake were located. Hostess Ruth Kahn greeted and directed them to Carol Christoffers to sign the guest book and consider purchasing On Wings of Verse, the society�s 75th anniversary collection of 67 poems written by 14 members.

At the same time, John Kenney was distributing an anniversary edition of the society�s monthly newsletter, Words with Wings, which features Marie LeVan�s history of the society, an article by Al Mueller on its current activities, and John�s acrostic poem, Celebrating Seventy-Five Years of History. Meanwhile, the Humble Bees, having set up to perform in the front of the gallery, waited for a signal from Mr. Kenney to begin their widely acclaimed program.

Marv Beloff, Peter Burch, Bruce Burchsted, Steve Lazarus, and Barry Spencer soon had folks foot- tapping and cameras flashing while they sang lively, humorous and original songs, sometimes as solos, other times ensemble, while accompanying themselves on ukuleles, a fluke and a mini-bass. Among the highlights were Bruce singing a song about poets and Barry amazingly playing Danny Boy on a saw with a bow.

The Humble Bees act was hard to follow as Mario Cavallo noted at the outset of the next part of the 3-hour party. After welcoming approximately 100 guests , he thanked gallery staff members for their hospitality and assistance in making the party possible; upheld Al Mueller�s work in producing On Wings of Verse as being exemplary; and introduced Marie LeVan to read her History of the Meriden Poetry Society. It was established in 1934 by Julia Lansing Warnock and Isyla Powers Lee, co-editors of the Meriden Record. At that time it was the only poetry society in Connecticut and has been meeting continuously since.

Mr. Cavallo followed the reading by announcing that Elsie Melco, longtime member of the society and well-known Meriden poet, has honored the society with a bequest. The society plans to establish an annual Elsie Melco Poetry Award beginning in 2010 for the best poem written in a competition among students at Meriden�s three high schools. His reading of a composite poem written by society members , The Meriden Poetry Society is�.. set the stage for Al Mueller�s presentation of complimentary copies of On Wings of Verse to individuals whose support has been and continues to be vital to the life of the society.

Mr. Mueller prefaced the presentations by noting that �poems, like songs we heard, aren�t complete until they�ve been read or sung, their words have become imprinted in minds and hearts, have stirred responses therein.� He suggested browsing in On Wings of Verse to discover why its three reviewers praised it and, if finding a poem to one�s liking, to chat with its writer about it.

As an example of humor within the book, John Kenney read his poem, Hough�s Tavern, by delightfully playing with variant pronunciations of Hough: Hoo, How, Hoff, Hock, Hup, Hoe and Huff .

Fifteen individuals were given complimentary copies of the book by Mr. Mueller, beginning with Bruce Burchsted, President of Prentis Printing Solutions, whose professional counsel and eye for beauty helped create a memorable anniversary momento. He was followed by: Patricia Mottola, Lois Lake Church and John Surowiecki , reviewers of On Wings of Song; members of the staff at the Meriden and Wallingford public libraries and Gallery 53; Andy Reynolds, publisher of The Reader�s Press; Nancy Mueller, party photographer; and Mayor Mayor Michael Rhode who concluded the presentations by recognizing individuals and arts groups vital to Meriden�s rich cultural life and leading a �Hip, Hip, Hooray!� for the poetry society.

Following the program, guests enjoyed refreshments and conversation with the poets; some had them autograph copies of Wings of Verse; a few guests became society members or purchased copies of the book. Without question, the society was delighted to share the occasion with so many supportive friends and family members and to be reassured that poetry is alive and well in Meriden!

For information about how to purchase a copy of On Wings of Verse or become a member of the Meriden Poetry Society, contact Mario Cavallo at 203-237-8252 or Alfred Mueller at 203-265-2445.

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No Joke: Matching Funds Available if State Antes Up
by Jessica Ciparelli

When does $1.5 million state-funded investment dollars equate to $3.2 million? When it is combined with $1.7 million of private funding. And this is no April Fool's joke.

At the Legislative Office Building on April 1, close to 100 people, including legislators, parents and philanthropic leaders gathered to hear the announcement of a challenge to the state: Come up with $1.5 million to invest in building community plans for early childhood, increasing parent leadership (through programs such as the Connecticut Parent Trust Fund's Parent Leadership Training Institute, or �PLTI�), and improving early literacy, then private funders and foundations, including the William Casper Graustein Memorial Fund, will fund the remaining $1.7 million.

�Foundations are ready to invest,� said WCGMF Executive Director David Nee. �I really hope this offer is appropriately [accepted].�

It's not a huge sum to invest on either side, however, the testament to the product is measurable. The room was filled with parent leaders, many of whom have completed, or are in the process of completing, PLTI. Parent groups and advocates from East Hartford, West Hartford, Torrington, New Britain, Norwich, Norwalk, Manchester, Danbury, Windham,Windsor, Bridgeport, Stamford, Meriden, Middletown and Colchester were present to show their support of the matching funds and the opportunity to continue investments in early learning and parent leadership programming. Both make good economic and social sense for Connecticut's children, especially in tough times.

�We can't say enough about Graustein and other [funders] who are making these partnerships work,� said Rep. Bruce Morris (D-Norwalk). �I can't say enough about PLTI either. This certainly is a tough budget year, but this is an investment.�

Rep. Morris spoke of closing the state's achievement gap and said there is a way to do just that.

�Early childhood education is one of the first things we need to do,� he said. �We need to level the playing field with parents playing an active role.�

Marisol Estrada-Soto, a 2007 graduate of the PLTI class in Meriden, said the class has helped her become more involved. She is even now part of a work group for the �Meriden Early Learning Blueprint,� a comprehensive plan of action to promote learning for young children and their families.

�I realized I wanted to help the parents of Meriden become more engaged,� she said. Taking part in the Meriden Blueprint plan has helped her further understand what is going on in her own community.

For some, the reason for taking part in PLTI is more personal. That is the case of Kimberly Clark of New Haven, who is half-way through the 20-week program.

�The reason I am so adamant for PLTI and PEP [People Empowering People, also part of the CT Parent Trust Fund] is because I have a 7-year-old and I don't want to lose him to the streets,� Clark said. �It would be a disservice to allow these [programs] to fall by the wayside.�

�Families are so ready to be engaged � they just need the support,� said Elaine Zimmerman, Executive Director of the Connecticut Commission on Children.

Melody Currey, former state representative and current East Hartford mayor said there are at least 100 graduates of PLTI in East Hartford, and many of them are now serving on boards and commissions and are speaking out for children's issues.

�We have been very fortunate to have that,� Currey said.

Susan Murphy, vice president of corporate communications and community relations for Liberty Bank, said one of the bank's priorities in its strategic plan is to invest in preventative programming for families, including early literacy, youth leadership and PLTI.

�It's one of the best investments we can make,� said Murphy. �[But] we can't obviously do it alone � the only way we can do it is to partner with state and local government.�

In terms of capacity building, George Hensinger, representing Norwalk Early Childhood Council, said the council has been involved with Graustein for at least the past 10 years and has developed a three-year action plan. Eighty school readiness slots, he said, were added in Norwalk in 2008, with a goal of another 100 planned for 2009-2010. He added that through a program called "EPIC," 29 parents have been trained to go out and further engage other parents in the community.

State Rep. Catherine Abercrombie (D-Meriden) said she was �very� confident that the state would secure the $1.5 million in matching funds, but she urged those present to contact their legislators to stress how important programs such as these are.

�As we all know, nothing is set in stone,� she said.

The press conference was sponsored by the William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund, CT Parent Power, Rep. Abercrombie and the Connecticut Commission on Children.

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Common Sense �. Could Save Your Life !!!!

Connecticut Outdoors
Written By: Paul Narducci

With the boating season on its way there are a few things we need to remember. Accidents are called accidents for a reason, but most could be prevented. Here is a list of a few things I recommend you follow. The first is that anytime your on the water be aware of your surroundings. If you�re the captain of the boat always be responsible and in control of what is happening. I feel alcohol and boating do not mix. I understand most of you might have just replied ,WHAT? Well it doesn�t, to many people have accidents due to alcohol related boating and it seems ridiculous to think other wise. If your running the boat drinking alcohol isn�t using common sense at all. Another thing people overlook is the importance of wearing a life jacket (PFD.. Personal Floatation Device) This always amazes me when I see children not wearing a PFD and when I talk to the parents they look at me like I�m doing something wrong. The law states that any child under 13 years old on any vessel that is underway must be wearing a life jacket unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a life jacket. They must be approved by the U.S Coast Guard and will state this on the jacket itself. It should also fit the person properly and be in good condition. Most importantly people need to wear them. 90% of all boating fatalities could have been prevented if everyone was wearing a life jacket. Some of the best life jackets you will find are made by Stearns, Coleman and Sospenders. These companies make life jackets for everyone and for many different needs. If you go to http://www.sospenders.com/ this will take you to all three sites. Some people have stated to me life jackets are to bulky, it�s to hot, I can swim and once again is this using your common sense. I think if you check out this website and look at sospenders automatic inflatable Pfd you no longer can use any of these or other excuses. If you�re a fisherman these are wonderful and you won�t even realize you have one on. If you refer to the 2009 Connecticut Boaters Guide this and more info will help you have a safe and fun boating season.

There is a lot of information out there due to the internet and here is a list of some great websites that may help you http://www.ctfisherman.com/ , http://www.ctfishtalk.com/ , http://www.ctbass.com/ , http://www.sotv1.com/ .
Paul, Tony, Frank, Joe and Jonathan wish you the best of luck and good fishing!!!!!
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�Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective�
by
Gregory M. Simpson

If love could have kept him alive, my cat Lucky would still be with me. It was not meant to be, as eventually he succumbed to liver cancer. Now the place on the couch where he slept is empty and there is a hole in my heart.

Although a common gray color, Lucky was a special cat. Originally stray or abandoned, he was a rescue one frigid January night ten years ago from our backyard deck. He made it clear what he wanted, as he wrapped his two front legs around my leg and would not let go. He never had a desire to go outside after that, as when a member of my family would open a door, he would run in the opposite direction. He had been outdoors. My wife aptly named him �Lucky�.

My prayers were that Lucky would die peacefully at home, but in the end, I needed to bring him for euthanasia. The word �euthanasia� is of Greek origin and literally means a painless, happy death. Although one of the most difficult decisions of my life, I was comforted by the words of friends and family, such as �You made all the right decisions along the way, even the final one. I�m so sorry for the pain you feel now.� One friend wrote, �Our pets are so devoted to us and faithful to the end and we owe it to them to be worthy of such devotion. All you can do is what you are doing and Lucky knows that.� Another friend shared, �My sympathies to you also about dear Lucky. But how lucky he has been and you too, with him.� Another offered, �You were and are his guardian angel and he knows it�.

Now Lucky is my guardian angel looking down over me until we see each other again. As once noted by a monk called the Venerable Bede, I believe that death is but a horizon and a horizon is but the limit of our sight. Moreover, as a gravestone inscription found in a pet cemetery proclaims, �O heaven will not ever heaven be unless my cats are there to welcome me�. So, until I see Lucky again, the last two things I said to him before he passed on were that I loved him and we would meet again at Rainbow Bridge. For those of you familiar, or not, with the description of Rainbow Bridge, I share it now � in memory of Lucky. The author is unknown.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water, and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together�.

For the animals,

Gregory M. Simpson

Gregory Simpson�s animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers� Association.

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�Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective�
by
Gregory M. Simpson

Several years ago, The Denver Post reported about twelve-year-old Eric Smith who strangled a cat with a garden hose. At the time, it was dismissed as a childhood prank. One year later, Smith murdered four-year-old Derrick Robie.

The link between violence to humans and violence to animals is now well established. Psychologist Randall Lockwood, in his role as Vice-President of the Humane Society of the United States, stated, �Not all abused individuals become abusers, but virtually all animal abusers were abused.� Criminologist Jack Levin concluded that people who are violent against animals are five times as likely to be violent against humans. There are many infamous examples.

Jeffrey Dahmer impaled frogs and cats and decapitated a dog as a child, and went on to kill and dismember seventeen people. David Berkowitz killed neighborhood pets and became New York City�s �Son of Sam� killer. A study of 28 convicted sexual homicide perpetrators found that prevalence of cruelty to animals was 36% in childhood and 46% in adolescence.

Numerous U.S. cities and states now have mandatory cross-reporting laws. Connecticut should be one of them. In these places, when individuals legally mandated to report child abuse suspect animal abuse in a home, they must report it to the animal protection agency. Likewise, if animal control officers suspect child abuse in a home, they are mandated reporters of that information to child protective services.

The American Humane Association (AHA), the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals from cruelty, neglect, abuse and exploitation, has long recommended that in every state there be cross-training and cross-reporting among law enforcement officers, humane investigators, veterinarians, health professionals, domestic violence advocates, and child protection workers. In addition, AHA has recommended systematic tracking of national animal abuse data.

Animal abuse often occurs in concert with other types of family violence, including spouse and elder abuse. A New Jersey study found that when child abuse was present, animal abuse was also noted 88% of the time, sometimes by an abusive parent and sometimes by the abused child. Another study of women seeking shelter at a safe house showed that 71% of those having pets indicated that their partner had threatened, hurt or killed their companion animals and 32% of mothers reported that their children had hurt or killed their pets.

Adults model violence to children in multiple ways. Where incest or sexual abuse is involved, an offender can use actual or threatened animal torture or death to silence a child about the sexual abuse. Most common is the modeling that violent adults provide through the abuse of a spouse, the elderly, animals, or the child himself. Although violence is everywhere in our society, most child and/or animal abuse is insidious and occurs behind closed doors. In 2001, 80.9% of the perpetrators of child abuse or neglect were parents, with another 15.9% including other caregivers, babysitters, and extended family members.

To date, the reason why there is no mandatory cross reporting law in Connecticut may reflect our society�s English common law precedents related to the �ownership� of children and animals, i.e., the �how I treat my children or pets is my business� kind of attitude. The first laws related to child abuse in the U.S. actually came after the laws on the books against animal cruelty, in the Mary Ellen Wilson case of 1874. As Jacob Riis wrote at the time, ��I was where the first chapter of children�s rights was written, under warrant of that made for the dog�.�

Because children and animals are frequently mistreated in the same household, police officers, social workers and animal control officers all need to learn what to look for and how to deal with abuse when encountered. There were 2.7 million referrals of child abuse or neglect nationwide in 2001, with a little less than one million confirmed cases. Over one-half (56.5%) of 2001 reports of suspected maltreatment came from mandated reporters.

For animal abuse, Connecticut has a felony anti-cruelty statute and allows court ordered psychiatric counseling or anger management training for those convicted of animal cruelty. The Third National Incidence Study of Child Abuse and Neglect estimates that there are almost three times as many children maltreated as the number reported to child protective services. Connecticut needs a mandatory cross reporting law to help prevent child and animal abuse. In instances where it cannot be prevented, it needs to be reported and addressed.

For the animals,

Gregory M. Simpson

Gregory Simpson�s animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers� Association.

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Memories Of A Lifetime

Connecticut Outdoors
Written By: Paul Narducci

I recently had the opportunity to take my nephew Ryan Paul fishing. He is involved with the cub scouts and they had their annual fishing derby in Killingwirth at there camp. This place is completely beautiful and reminded me of my childhood. I use to go to camps very similar to this and was also a cub and boy scout years ago. Of course we wake up to a day that is not so nice regarding the weather but it isn�t raining. After speaking to Ryans mom Lori we decide to continue with our plan. They pick me up around eight o clock and we are off. You could tell the excitement in Ryans face, he was ready to fish! We get there and the place is packed with people of all ages. Its very windy and is definitely cold. After about fifteen minutes of fishing you guessed it it started to rain. So we put on our rain suits and continue to fish. Lori and I look at each other with a confused look hoping that one of us would ask Ryan if he wanted to leave. We all know I couldn�t do it because I�m Uncle Paul the guy with the fishing show. As I begun to shiver a bit and felt something dripping from my nose Lori finally asked the Question of the day. As the rain comes down harder and the wind is blowing, Ryan was ready to go. Although we didn�t catch any fish it was an honor to be asked to spend time with Ryan. I can guarantee you we will be back out again. Paul, Ryans on the phone wants to go fishing.

April 18, 2009 Opening Day. I pick Joe Dias up at 5:30 am that�s right I said am. We are headed off to Wharton Brook to catch some fish. We get there and it isn�t as packed as it has been in the past. Right away people are catching fish and the madness has begun. Are first fish is a tiger trout. We never caught one of these before. We leave Wharton Brook with four fish for my parents to enjoy. Due to the economy and possible fees for fishing to go up we were forced to ask them for ten dollars a fish. I convinced Joe that he should ask grandpa. As I was getting the fish into a bucket with fresh water Joe went over to talk to Grandpa. I told my Dad how our day went and he was eager to get the fish cleaned,so we left. I asked Joe how much did we get and he told me to forget about it. What�s with this? Forget About It, someone has been watching to many mafia movies. Well I never did get an honest answer. I decided to take Joey out for breakfeast for some pancakes and French toast. What away to end a perfect day. I love French Toast. As a reminder here are some possible lures for you and your kids to try, Yum trout pellets, buoyant and Rough Rider from Thomas spinning lures. As always Paul, Tony, Frank, Joe and Jonathan wish everyone the best of luck and good fishing!

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Memorial Day for Me
By Tia Kozar As we all impatiently waited to start our journey, my Brownie Girl Scout troop and I squirmed in our tiny brown uniforms and stared at the pavement in boredom. After we�d eagerly wait for our turn to come, wewould begin our march around the town in the annual Memorial Day parade. We would do this for many more years, grinning as people waved and clapped when we walked past. The attention was great but I doubt many of us understood the real reason why we were there. I always thought it was just another holiday, a day off from school (when EVERYTHING is on sale) but I was incredibly wrong. The tradition started when after the Civil War, General Logan declared May 30th to be a day to decorate the graves of fallen friends and families with flowers.(it was more popularly called Decoration Day) After World War 1 the day was broadened to honor and remember those who had died in all wars. The parade aspect of Memorial Day was to �kick off� the day; war veterans would walk through town to the cemeterieswith flowers to put on the graves of their fallen comrades. Others would often join in to decorate the graves of their loved ones, too.The tradition continued to evolve and now most parades end at a memorial site where a wreath or flowers are placed and a remembrance ceremony is held. Memorial Day is a day of commemoration, respect, and honor for all who have died in the wars. The day and its preceding are just as importanttoday as it was when the tradition began. Soldiers are still dying today as they protect our country and the world against terrorism. Although I may not have understood how important it was to march in the parade when I was a young Girl Scout, I am now glad that I was able to be a part of such an important tradition for so many years. _________________________________________________________________________Home

Slim Randles

Bernie came into the Mule Barn between our second and third refills that morning. I counted; there were one sigh and two groans and we all immediately stared at the coffee in our cups. You know. Like maybe the coming tsunami will spare this oaken island.

Nope.

He dragged out a spare chair and flopped down in it.

�Hey guys!� Bernie said. �Ever seen wind like this?�

Someone shook his head.

�I have,� Bernie said. �Yes. Algeria, it was. Nineteen and forty-three. Me and the old man � Patton, you know � well, there we were in this tent and the sand was blowing like a million machineguns��

And so it went for at least half of World War II and another cup of coffee. We went through his being wounded on D-Day, the wonderful women of Sicily, and finally having to whip Nazis with his fists because he ran out of ammunition.

Herb Ellis told us once that a friend of his knew Bernie during the war and that Bernie had ridden a desk all the way to Berlin, but why bring that up now?

Dud was doing a slow burn. Some of our members had seen combat, and Dud most of all. When Bernie got to the part where he single-handedly righted an overturned Jeep to save the lives of two nurses, Dud had had enough.

�That�s amazing strength,� Dud said. �I noticed you had your grandkids carrying in armloads of firewood the other day, Bernie. Seems strange that they�d do the work when you�re so strong.�

Bernie looked slightly annoyed, but just for a second.

�That�s simple,� he told us. �You see, I never was as strong as I used to be.�
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Brought to you by Sun Dog Days, a novel by Slim Randles. Check it out at http://www.unmpress.com/.

Home Country
Slim Randles

It was Doc who first noticed Dud's strange behavior.

I was too busy trying to put an elk-hair caddis fly on a size 16 just beyond that big smooth rock on Lewis Creek. I know there's a big rainbow trout in that hole there, you see, and there is nothing more important, on a May morning like this one, than enticing that big rascal into delivering himself to my waiting hands.

But Doc noticed that Dud had laid his fly rod down in the bushes and was doing strange things with his hands. Finally, Doc got my attention, pointed to Dud, and we both stopped fishing and walked over to see what our long-time pal was up to.

Dud would look around in the air, then make a one-handed grab at the air. After several grabs, he'd take two fingers of his other hand, put them in his clenched fist, and wiggle around. Then he'd smile and open his fist and look in the air again. Doc and I looked silently at each other, wondering how long it would take from our day of fishing to get Dud delivered to the nervous ward in the city.

"Dud," said Doc, "how's the fishing?"

"Huh? Oh hi. Not fishing right now, Doc. Experimenting."

"Experimenting?" I said. Of course, I said this automatically, forgetting for a moment how time consuming it could be to start Dud explaining things of a scientific nature.

"Natural selection," Dud said, proudly. "Survival of the fittest. Yes, I decided to spend my morning in Darwinian pursuits, making the world a safer place for mankind."

Doc looked at me. "He's talking like that again," he said.

"Well, Doc," said Dud, "you, of all people, should be able to appreciate what I'm doing. After all, you're a man of science and a healer. I'm going to rid the world of dangerous diseases. Observe."

Then Dud made another grab at the air, and this time we could see he was snatching a mosquito out of the air. Again he used his other hand to do something to the mosquito, and then he released it.

"I'm pulling out their drillers," Dud said. "I figgered if I pull out enough drillers, then sooner or later two drillerless mosquitoes will get married and have pups and then we'll have a family of drillerless mosquitoes here on Lewis Creek. Without drillers, they won't be able to pass along yellow fever or malaria to fishermen."

Doc looked at him in a strange way. "Dud, there's never been anyone get malaria from these Lewis Creek mosquitoes."

"See?" Dud said, brightly. "It's already working."
-------------

Brought to you by Sun Dog Days, a novel by Slim Randles. Check it out at http://www.unmpress.com/.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Heart Opening

By

Jennifer Jenkins

These days we tend to be surrounded by a media blitz of negativity and fear. It�s as if we are immersed in a culture of fear. You turn on the television and you hear of the latest unemployment figures and the rising number of foreclosures. You may wonder if you will be the next person to lose a job, and you may even start to panic. This is a normal reaction as a result of living in a society that is virtually conditioned to live in a state of fear.

As a result of this fear-based conditioning, most people live their lives in survival mode. As you may know, everyone�s body consists of energy. We all have and give off energy, which is largely due to our body�s core energetic system, otherwise known as the chakra system. Those existing in survival mode rarely walk around with a balanced chakra system. Most people�s chakras, including the heart chakra (the chakra of love and compassion), are blocked. So, when one lives in a state of fear and anxiety you can imagine that their heart chakra is blocked. A wise spiritual teacher once taught me that you can not feel fear and love at the same time; it�s impossible. Where there is love; there is no fear.

Can you imagine if we worked on eliminating fearful thoughts from our minds and chose to open our hearts to live, instead, within a state of LOVE. Think of the positive energy that would emanate from our souls and how that positive energy would influence others, by mere ripple effect. Think of the clarity we would feel. This change would enable us to work proactively on finding viable solutions to our problems. When you�re panic stricken it�s hard to think rationally and easy to become reactive to stimuli around you. However, when you exist in a loving state you feel calm, think more clearly, and are able to problem solve. These are the people you hear about who make lemonade out of lemons.

When the heart chakra is truly opened one also feels an immense freedom to love and be who they are, to love unconditionally, as well as demonstrate compassion and forgiveness toward others. This in turn benefits others. And, people who interact with those who live their lives, open heartedly, feel comfortable being around them, as they tend to be calm, congenial, cooperative, and concerned about others.

So, as you can see, opening your heart can be beneficial and can lead to a positive shift of consciousness within your own world and the world at large. So, accentuate a loving heart and work on eliminating fear from your life today. You may be surprised how much your life changes for the better as well as the lives of those around you.
_
________________________________________________________________________Patriots of Peace
By Dorothy Gonick

Wars of ages past
fought for gain of land;
for power over people,
to make their nation grand.

Colonists hoped for fairness,
voted for freedom.
Revolutionary patriots
fought hard and won.

Then came a time of shame
when pushing ever westward-
the Indians deserved respect.
Their griefs still being heard.

The Civil War which
threatened to divide,
brought freedom to the slaves,
Unity: now nationwide.

Two World Wars
clouded the skies,
yet Allied patriots
kept freedom alive.

Overseas we have gone
helping the weak
their freedom to gain,
their dignity to keep.

Today we have
new wars to fight.
The evils are many
and not pleasant sights.

There�s hunger, corruption, hate,
oppression, ignorance, fear
we�ve been sad to discover.
And prejudice, poverty, greed,
pollution, loneliness, stress
are more to uncover.
Are there many more
for us to deplore?

Let�s put down our guns,
choose a cause to defend.
Win freedom from these;
bring strife to an end.

Let�s be Patriots of Peace
and justice, release.

____________________________________________________________
NATURE AS A MIRROR
by Dorothy Gonick

GRASS ROOTS
Potatoes to plant-
Preparing garden soil-
Springtime has arrived.

Last fall large clumps of sod were tossed by a backhoe and left to rest under heavy snows �til spring. Spring has arrived and I�ve been loosening the fertile soil from those clumps to prepare a garden. Grasping the sod, shaking the soil loose, and holding the matted roots to reveal the tight interlocking of last years plants, impresses me with the web of life that must flourish unseen below the surface. The occasional earthworms that interlace the soil speak of their part in enriching its productivity.

The grass and weeds that have been uprooted have done an admirable job of holding soil in place and allowing storm water to glide by without washing away the precious soil. There are seeds left from last years plants that are just waiting for the warmth of spring to sprout, but I plan to thwart them. Weeds are fine in pastureland, but not welcome in the garden that I am planning.

The seed potatoes are waiting to be cut into sections; I�ll leave �eyes� in each piece to sprout and absorb the moisture and nutrients from the soil. Sprouting will be followed by growth as green leaves rise above the soil. Under the surface, nodules will form on the roots and grow; each nodule to become a new potato.

How does this �mirror� life? All living things have an indwelt urge to grow, including us.
Thoughtfully we let the day-by-day joys blossom and we reject the weeds of annoyance that darken our thoughts. Throughout life, there are changes and sometimes it seems that we�ve been uprooted; much as this garden plot was. Changes such as parting from family for college or marriage; welcoming the birth of a child, or adjusting to the loss of loved ones all call for new roots to form. Changes become part of us, even while we cling to the roots of the past (our grass roots). Shaking out the harmful, unneeded roots (weeds) and holding to the nourishing changes of life is a never-ending growth process.

Springtime is most welcome, so let�s anticipate the growth it holds for us.

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LOST AND FOUND-GOLF BALLS
By Francis W. Lappert

Shortly after I retired in 1978 after working 41 � years in a local silver factory in Meriden, my brother Ernie talked me into taking up the game of golf. We started out playing at the �Hunters Golf Course� in Meriden. We made up a foursome of my brother, Fred Crovo, Robert Westfort and I. I knew very little about the game but Ernie coached me, pointing out the mistakes I was making. I had started out with a cheap set of clubs I bought on sale at Caldor�s. I didn�t want to invest too much until I knew how much I like to play golf. I liked the challenge so the following year I bought a much better set.

We were then playing five mornings a week and I was making good scores for a beginner but I managed to slice the ball several times into the woods bordering the fairway. As I searched for my ball I found several others. I got the notion that I would go to the course early in the morning to search different fairways that were fairly narrow with thick woods and bushes along the sides. This was the start of a new hobby hawking golf balls.

On Sunday mornings I began golfing on several different courses not too far from Meriden. Among a few were Timberland in Kensington, Farmingbury in Wolcott, and Indian Springs in Middlefield. Every time I played these courses I paid attention to where most balls were hit out of bounds. I found Indian Springs was the most productive for finding lost balls as I would beat the bushes with a long thin sapling about six feet long also to chase any snakes lurking in the tall grass. One morning while searching along the eighth fairway which had a small pond just in front of the tee I saw a good number of balls in the pond. I saw I would need boots and my ball retriever with the telescope handle to reach some of them. The following week I arrived early before any golfers were out and began to hunt. I started out on the small pond and gathered twenty four from there. That was my best gathering as I would come up with eighty two balls that morning. I would put the balls in my set tub in the cellar with hot water and wash detergent and let them soak for about an hour. I would then take each one out and scrub with a wire brush until they were very clean. I would separate them by mark of the ball such as Top Flite, Titlelist, Wilson, Max-Fli, Pinnacle, and many other brands. At that time I had about fifty dozen in egg boxes set aside, all in number one condition. I sold many of them to my friends at a reasonable price.

I had a good many I couldn�t sell to any golfer as they had small cuts on them or were off color or scraped, I had a large carton full. One day I was playing with my friends at Pine Valley course in Southington and when on the way home I stopped at the driving range on West Street and asked the owner if he could use these marked balls. He asked how many I had and I said several hundred. He told me to bring them over. I counted five hundred out in a large box and took them. He gave me ten cents for each of them and gave me a check for fifty dollars. Now my hobby was on the road to success. I had one bad experience at Indian Springs one visit when I disturbed a yellow jacket bee nest in the ground and wound up with stings on my right hand and arm. I went to the small pond nearby and plastered mud on them.

When I got home I bathed my hand and arm with a solution that was good for bee stings. By noon time my hand and arm were very swollen. I became very alarmed and went to the emergency room at the hospital. I asked the doctor if I was allergic to bee stings and was told if I was and didn�t get help immediately I would not be alive. From that day on I was very alert for bee or wasp nests. I encountered many snakes while searching the brush but I always beat the grass or brush with my long stick.

Several years ago I stopped the search for lost balls but as I look back it was one of my most enjoyable hobbies I had. I still enjoy a round of golf when I can find a partner to play with.
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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

FLOWERS I HAVE KNOWN
It was the time of year that wasn�t winter, it wasn�t spring and you weren�t quite sure spring would ever come. My six-year-old son and I had moved into a nice apartment on Route 80 in North Branford. My father had moved on with his life and that was the way things were going to be from now on. Our apartment building was brand new and we were the first tenants. On one side of the property was a small clump of trees with a lovely, old colonial home on the other side of the trees. This home was white with black shutters and a national historic homes register plaque on the corner stating that it had been built in circa 17 something. Mr. & Mrs. Arnold lived there and they must have been well over 80 years old at that time.

My son came bouncing into the kitchen one morning with a look of satisfaction on his face. When you are six years old, many daily events prompt that look.

�Here Mom, I picked these JUST FOR YOU�. In his fist was what used to be a lovely bunch of tulips. With their mashed stems they looked like casualties of a beating, but they were beautiful to me. Mothers are like that.

�Thank you honey, they�re wonderful. Where did you get them?� The question was asked partly to show interest in his activities and partly because I hadn�t seen any flowers around the apartment building.

�Well Mom, you know those woods over there?� The broad sweep of his arm indicated the few trees separating our yard from the Arnold homestead. I nodded my head in agreement that I did indeed know where he meant.

�I went through the woods and on the other side was this lawn�. I nodded again, mentally following the path he had taken. �And in the middle of the lawn was this circle of brick�. By now I was too horrified to move, as I began to realize where he had been.

�And RIGHT in the Middle of that circle of brick were these flowers and I picked them ALL!� Thrusting out his little hand, I took the bouquet.

Oh, Lord, give me strength. Mrs. Arnold�s prize tulips. Probably planted by the same nurserymen who took such loving care of the rest of the yard. I contemplated apologizing to Mrs. Arnold. Perhaps I could tape the flowers on back on the stems but what good would it do? Moving seemed a bit drastic, so I thanked him and told him not to take any more of Mrs. Arnold�s flowers. She might want to pick them herself, I added. I must say they were the second most beautiful flowers my son ever gave me.

Mark was 26 years old when I received the very most precious flowers of all. Most of those years between the ages of 6 and 26 had been spent raising him without the benefit of a father. It was early in June when he presented me with a lovely potted chrysanthemum.

�Sorry I missed Mother�s Day�. I turned to put the plant on the table when he continued, �I bought you one more gift.�

There in his hand was a second plant. His comment summed up all the years of being both mother and father to him. He had noticed after all.

�Happy Father�s Day, Mom�.

Submitted by:

Veronica Hamel Kivela

My Mother's Voice and The Piano - A Mother's Day Story

My mother had an average singing voice and was quite good at playing the piano. About five years after she was married, which was in 1945, my parents, Philip and Bernice, purchased a Steinway & Sons console piano, which was made in New York City in 1950. From the time Nancy and I could sit on either side of our mom on the piano bench, we would listen to her sing children's songs to us in her soft and soothing voice.

Our favorite collection of songs was a book called Fourteen Songs from When We Were Very Young, by A.A. Milne and H. Fraser-Simson. I loved all of the songs, but I had my favorites, such as "Halfway Down" and "Vespers." All of the pieces had marvelous lyrics, and we soon learned to sing all of them with our mom. The book had been inscribed by my aunt on behalf of her two children at that time: "To Aunt Bernice on her birthday - with the hope that Barbara and Nancy will enjoy these songs as much as we do! With love from Kirk and Kathy. September 16, 1951."

I started taking piano lessons when I was in the third grade at age eight, and so did Nancy, but I stuck with the lessons for years to come, unlike Nancy, and became a pretty good pianist. I don't know exactly how old I was when I was able to sit down and play through every piece in that favorite children's music book of ours. Over the years I have recorded some of them for children of relatives and friends or for others who have requested that I do so, but I have not touched that book in many, many years.

I still have the Steinway piano, but I have not been able to use it as it is housed in my landlady's part of a 100-year-old-plus house. (I would not risk injury to the movers or to the piano when they attempted to carry it up a very narrow and winding staircase 13 years ago.)

I recently was told of a Catholic church in Wallingford in need of a piano (and my mother was Catholic). I contacted the priest, and he will soon be coming to see the piano and hear the accompanist for the choir play it.

I decided to sit down a few days ago to find out how the old piano sounded. It took me a few minutes to get my eyes focused on the music and get my fingers to cooperate, but I was able to play through some simple pieces, such as John Denver's "Annie's Song," and my, oh, my, what a beautiful tone that piano has.

I opened the piano bench to get some more music out to play, and I noticed the book Fourteen Songs from When We Were Very Young in the stack of music. I started with "Halfway Down," which has delightful lyrics, and it begins with, "Halfway down the stairs is a stair where I sit: There isn't any other stair quite like it. I'm not at the bottom, I'm not at the top: So this is the stair where I always stop." I did not sing; I only played the piano. I went through almost all of the songs, including "Happiness," "Buckingham Palace," "Politeness," "Market Square," and my favorite, "Vespers," the last song in the book.

This may not sound plausible to you, but what was extremely special about the time I spent going through those songs was every now and then I could actually hear my mother's voice singing the words. She was in the room with me. Did she realize I had not played the piano in years? Did she know I was about to make a difficult decision about the future home of her piano? I do not know. But it is comforting to know that, although my mom has been gone from this earth for 25 years, she is still watching over me and that I can still hear my mother's voice!

I wish everyone's mom a very happy Mother's Day!

(I wrote this story in 2003. The priest and the accompanist did come to the house, and when she sat down to play, tones rang out from that old Steinway piano I had never heard before. It was glorious! She played a number of pieces by heart, but when she began to play Mendelssohn's "He Watching Over Israel," I broke down in tears. I was unable to make the sacrifice and did not give the piano to the church. When I moved to South Whittlesey Avenue on November 28, 2004, a date I shall never forget, the piano came with me, and that's another story for another day.)

By Barbara Sherburne
barndt49@yahoo.com

To travel with the unawakened makes the journey long and hard and is as painful as traveling with an enemy. But the company of the wise is as pleasant as meeting with friends.
Follow the wise, the intelligent, and the awakened. Follow them as the moon follows the path of the stars.

-Dhammapada

We�re Getting Older�
Is Our Country Ready For It ???

Submitted by Carol Carbutti, Owner of Comfort Keepers of Wallingford

Today in the US, 6,000 people turn 65 everyday! In 10 years, the number will rise to 10,000 people per day! By year 2030 older Americans will double in number from 35 million to 70 million. The Alliance for Aging Research has written a report entitled, �Ten Reasons Why America is Not Ready for the Coming Age Boom�, in which they call out 10 fundamental cultural challenges and deficiencies in our health care and educational system:

Age Denial � The US is a youth oriented culture; and Baby Boomers continue to fight aging !! We need to adapt cultural age perceptions and care options.

Prevention Disparities � Prevention programs tend to be youth oriented and offer few preventative treatments for older patients.

Geriatric Gap � Health care providers are not well-trained but developing in the care of the elderly.

Few Academic Leaders � Academia has been slow to take a leadership role in training students in the care of the aged, nor have they proactively promoted the need for training.

Lack of Geriatric Curriculum � Over half of all medical schools are not teaching geriatric medicine

Lack of Geriatricians � There is a distinct lack of investment in geriatrics education. Less than one half of 1% of Medicare education funds are aimed at treating older Americans.

Inadequate Reimbursement � Medicare and other health care insurers provide higher reimbursement for care that is NOT core to geriatric care.

Lack of Coordination within Medicine � Older patients often have multiple chronic conditions requiring more than one doctor. Coordinating the information flow between health care providers is under-managed.

Clinical Trials Often Do Not Include the Aged � The lack of inclusion in research complicates the creation of safe standards for the aged.

Lack of Research on Aging � Less than 1% of the budget at the National Institutes for Aging is dedicated to studying aging.
The perceptions around aging and the resources dedicated to understanding aging MUST change�. because we are all getting older . See the Alliance for Aging Research website www.allianceforaging.org/ for more information about aging and the cultural, political and financial effects it will have.
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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 advice 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. Hope you are all enjoying this spring.-June and Flora

Dear Housewives, I have so many papers from each of my two kids classes. I don't know what to keep and what to throw out, they are all over the place. Help. No more papers in Meriden

JUNE: Dear paper, our kids bring home an amazing amount of notices, work, projects and tests. The best thing to do is to keep all graded work until the term ends in case you have any issue with the grade; teachers do make mistakes. I would buy a binder or file box to keep them organized in. After report cards come you can toss whatever you don't want to keep. I like to keep some things to look at in the future. It will be fun for the kids to see their old work.

FLORA: Open and read all back pack notices the day they arrive. If there is an event you need to attend, put it on your calender right then and there. Write down the event, time and place. Cross out the flyer and use the clean side for scrap paper at home.We too have a box for each child that we fill with school work. I collect the 'keepers' (cute things they write or draw or graded papers for memories) and at the end of the school year, I go through the 'keepers', filter out any and fill the box. This way at the end of college, they can go through their school memory box to see their work from years past.

Dear Housewives,How do I handle people who have all the answers on children and they do not have any children? I work with two people who have all the answers but no experience. Remember, I work with them so I want to handle this well and nicely.Walking a Fine Line in Wallingford

FLORA: I have encountered that a few times and have handled it by saying for my children or the children I encounter daily, I see this... or that.... and give concrete examples. I have never reminded them that they may not know because they are not parents; doing that is too confrontational. June?

JUNE: You are probably better off just ignoring them. I have an Aunt who does the same thing and she always starts by saying, "Kids tend to be...". I always want to as he how she knows. It isn't worth it if you have to see the people all the time. Maybe you can just tell them things about your kids and let it go. You could ask them when they are going to have some of their own but do it nicely.

Dear Housewives,What do you ladies think about Facebook? More and more of my adult friends are doing this.Faceless in Meriden

JUNE: I don't really get it. People have tons of friends but they aren't really friends, it is like a collection of people you know. And even if you don't hang out with them you can see all their information and pictures. I think people should stick to emailing. It is a good tool to find people you lost touch with but they have to have an account or it is useless for that too. I am a fan of good old fashioned calling people and even emailing. I am not impressed with the computer age.

FLORA: I think we need to pick up the phone and meet our friends face to face. If they live far away, there is the telephone and email. I thought it was more a college age trend but I too have been invited to be a friend on Facebook. Way too much time is spent on Facebook and the internet. And not for nothing, many of these adults on Facebook are doing it on company time and I personally think that is stealing. This is partly why our economy is in shambles. People, if you are getting paid to work, work. Get off the Facebook and surfing the internet and be productive.Nothing replaces truly getting to know and be known by people. Too many of us are loosing the art of friendship. Go for a walk, go our for coffee or tea, go over and play cards or just talk. Let's get back to face to face friendships.

JUNE: I couldn't agree with you more Flora, but I can't make the stretch to say that the economy tanked because of Facebook. C'mon, think about that./

JUNE: Flora, I hope you are enjoying your spring. I took my middle "little june" to see the "Thomas and Friends" show at the XL center in Hartford. It was a great show and we had a great time. I hope more people take advantage of the events that come to Hartford's XL center. I got in and out easily and the show itself was top notch. The movie "Bedtime Stories" with Adam Sandler is now on DVD. This may be a little early for Flora to get it but the rest of you should rent it. It was a very cute movie for the family. Look into it.

FLORA: I read a short novel by Wm. Paul Young titled "The Shack" and found it captivating. Without giving away any more than the back of the book would, it is a story of a man whose young daughter was abducted while on a family vacation. The father receives a note from God and is asked to meet him at a shack where evidence of his daughter is. This is brilliantly woven story of God's love and redemption and a loving but peculiar description of God, His Son and the Holy Spirit. You can read this quickly. I know many who have read it in a day. I plan on reading it again. 4 Pineapples.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
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Bobbie�s Bevy of Beauties

Congratulations to Geno and the UConn Lady Huskies for winning a 6th collegiate national woman�s basketball championship. Besides becoming �The Top Dog� they collected many other awards either as a team or individually. I think some of the records they established may not be broken but if they are it won�t be for quite awhile. Wish them much success when November comes around again.

Definitely spring is here. Pam along with her very helpful husband Ed, and he has become quite a gardener, but I don�t know if he will agree with me, planted her beautiful bed of pansies a few days before the heat wave. They are in her front lawn planted in a circle with a huge pot of them in the middle. I admire them every time I walk by there house alone or with LitlBit. And if I�m not outside I have a great view of them from the upstairs bedroom window. In July when they are on their way out the garden is planted with mini begonias. As I have mentioned before they are another one of my favorite annuals � white, pink, red with green or brown leaves. I prefer the brown. Once the plant produces a bloom it continues to flower until the cold weather.

There is one other sign of spring. We have a great mailman. His name is Bob. Anyone who is on his route is very fortunate. When the temp reaches a certain degree off comes his postal trousers in exchange for his postal Bermudas. Once I see his legs are covered up again I know we�re headed for the cooler weather. What an ugly thought.

Still haven�t made that first trip to the nursery. And I know it will be more than one. Probably within a week or so. Don�t want to take the chance of planting my selection of annuals then have a few cool nights do their damage.

Most of the trees and shrubs are in full bloom. Any pruning to be done wait until they have finished their flowering. Then cut back but no more than twenty five percent.

That�s about it for this issue. If the weather is agreeable will try to finish getting my perennials squared away this weekend. It�s also time to bring my calla lilies and dahlia�s up from the cellar. Hope I have time to grab a bite. Oh, how I wish it could be a tomato sandwich.

Flowercerly Yours,
Bobbie G. Vosgien

My P.S. List
May 5 � Happy 53rd Anniversary Jimmy � Love, Bob
May 8 � Happy Birthday Jodie � Love Mom �Greta� and Dad
May 10 � Happy Mother�s Day Jaime and Jodie � Love, Mom and Dad

Mother's Day Origins

Mothers are the unsung heroes of the world. Every day they sacrifice their time and devote their love to the children they brought into the world.

What mother doesn't hope to be celebrated and pampered, if just for a bit, by her children in recognition for all that she had done for them? That is why every year on the second Sunday of May children pay hommage to their moms on Mother's Day.

Mother's Day hasn't always been a standard spring holiday. In fact, mothers went officially uncelebrated for years and years. It wasn't until the 20th century that an official holiday was established to honor mothers, grandmothers and the other special women in people's lives.

Anna Jarvis was a woman who made great strides toward establishing a national holiday for mothers. Jarvis held annual gatherings called "Mother's Friendship Day" with an objective to heal the pain of the victims and those affected by the Civil War. After her own mother died in 1905, Jarvis decided a national celebration of mothers was in order, and began to campaign for such a holiday.

Jarvis began by soliciting the pastor at the church where her mother had taught Sunday School classes for a special commemorative mass. The church obliged, and the first Mother's Day celebration took place on May 10, 1908 at Andrew's Methodist Church. Later that day, Jarvis celebrated Mother's Day again with her brother at her home in Philadelphia.

The Mother's Day idea eventually caught on, and President Woodrow Wilson made it official in 1914 that the second Sunday in May would be celebrated as Mother's Day annually.

Since then families have gathered annually together to give thanks to the special women who have helped shape their lives.

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Exercise Tips for Seniors Starting Anew

Babies today have it better than those that came before them. That's because, according to a 2007 report from the U.S. Census Bureau, a baby born today has a lot more life to look forward to than one born 50 years ago. A child born today can expect to be around for the next 78 years, whereas one born half a century ago had a projected life span of nine fewer years.

While some might suggest this longer life expectancy is a product of people taking better care of themselves, others might say it's due in large part to advances in medicine.

Whatever the reason, it's obvious more and more seniors are living longer lives, and many are hoping to add even more miles to their odometers. One way to do just that is through exercise. But for seniors who haven't hit the gym in a while, starting an exercise regimen can be an intimidating, if not confusing, experience. Seniors looking to make exercise a regular part of their lives should consider the following tips along the way.

* Seek medical advice: The first thing you should do, even before lacing up your first sneaker, is visit a doctor. Each individual is different, and a doctor will let you know what you, personally, should and should not be doing as you begin a new exercise regimen. In addition, a checkup could reveal problems you might not be aware of.

* Recognize limitations: If you have not lifted a weight or run a step in 20 years, you're not going to be able to simply pick up where you left off. Recognizing your physical limitations is paramount to the success of your new program. For seniors, the point of exercise is not to become a pinup guy or girl, but to get healthy or maintain existing health. Set realistic goals and acknowledge what you can and cannot do.

* Choose an enjoyable program: Choose an exercise program you know you will enjoy. An enjoyable program will encourage participation and increase the likelihood that you'll stick with it. Whether it's a daily walk with friends or a structured workout at the local gym with a trainer, the program you choose should be one you look forward to, and not one you see as a necessary evil.

* Take it easy: Whenever a new program is started, be it by a teenager, professional athlete or senior citizen, the temptation to overdo it is omnipresent. However, flying out of the gates is a great way to get hurt, particularly if you do not yet know your physical limitations. Take it slow as you begin a workout, and make a daily journal of what you do at the beginning. That way, should you encounter any aches or pains, you can always look at the journal or share it with your physician or trainer to determine what might be the root of the problem. As you grow accustomed to physical activity, you can then make adjustments to your routine accordingly.

* Do your homework on facilities: You may, especially if you are retired, prefer to workout during the mid-morning hours when kids are in school and working professionals are at the office. That can make choosing a gym easier for you than it is for students or professionals.

However, when looking for the right facility, do your homework and find a gym that has all that you want. Some gyms, for example, heavily emphasize weight training, and don't offer other amenities such as racquetball courts or a swimming pool. Find a gym that best fits your needs. Many gyms offer free passes for up to a week so prospective customers can get a better grasp of what the gym has to offer. Take advantage of this common practice when choosing a facility.

* Make stretching a regular part of your regimen: Young or old, stretching is an integral part of any successful workout routine. For seniors, however, stretching becomes especially important, as you are more susceptible to injury than you were in your more youthful days. Stretching helps prevent muscle pulls and other injuries, and should be done both before and after a workout.

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Home Country
Slim Randles

It�s Tuesday afternoon at two, which means Clarice Devon is on her way to the Curl Up �N Dye beauty salon. It�s like the sun coming up or the price of bread increasing. Tuesday. Two. Clarice.
�Clarice!� yells Fran. �Ready to be beautiful?�
�Sure,� she said. �I like attempting the impossible.�
Clarice Devon is one of our angels. She�s one of the few people in town who will tolerate old people and shut ins, and she not only takes care of them, but seems to relish it as well.
During the rinse, Fran asks her if she�s the one taking care of Mr. Gavin since his stroke. Clarice nods.
�So what�s he like to work with these days?�
�It�s a now-and-then situation,� Clarice says. �You know � now and then?�
�I don�t understand. You mean it�s part time?�
�Nope. Full time. But it�s now and then.�
Fran looked puzzled.
Clarice laughed. �It�s like this,� she said, imitating old Mr. Gavin�s voice. �Now, when you finish getting me my tea, I�d like a custard, but I�d like it in a glass bowl. A small glass bowl. Then I want you to call and see if my pills are ready. Now if they are, could you pick them up? Then, while you�re there, I want to try that toothpaste they talk about on television.�
Fran laughed. �Now and then, huh?�
�Now and then,� Clarice said, smiling as she was attacked by curlers.

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Home Country
Slim Randles

The garden catalogs start coming when the snow is too deep to even find dirt. But we don�t care.
This is a catalog time of year, a time for making plans and figuring out how to do something even better than we did last year.
There in the fishing catalog is that new fly-tying vise. I know I�ll be able to tie flies faster and better with that, which will give me more time to cruise up and down Lewis Creek with the fly rod. Well � at least that�s the plan.
And the housewares catalog has all kinds of things in it to help us peel potatoes, boil things, slice things, and clean things. A few well-spent dollars on their 800 phone line and before you know it, our lives will be easier and our food tastier.
With the truck catalogs, we can get a little coffee maker that plugs right in to the cigarette lighter. Or we can get a little oven that plugs right in to the cigarette lighter, or a fan that plugs right in to the cigarette lighter. Let�s hope the car makers continue to make cigarette lighters even after cigarettes themselves disappear. We�d miss out on a lot of fun without that plug-in.
The mule needs his catalog, too. I�ll do the reading for him, and the ordering. But I think he�d appreciate one of those nice white fleece cinches. They seem so soft on an old mule�s belly. And a matching saddle pad would be good, too. He�s too old to rope on any more, but a guy can still appreciate comfort in semi-retirement.
The land catalogs are the most fun. In these, there are always lakes with wooded margins, begging for a little cabin. A small place where a guy can hole up and think literary thoughts and type quietly. Well, it�s a thought, anyway. And that�s what catalogs do, stimulate our thinking.
Spring catalogs are the novels of optimistic lives.

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Live Like You Were Dying
by Barbara Sherburne and Jeff Johnson
I had the good fortune in November of 2008 to become acquainted with a new cashier at Krauszer's named Kara Johnson. I think almost the minute we met she told me about her brother Jeff who has ALS. I had no idea what ALS was. I was about to learn. Jeff is 43 years old, and before I get to his story, I just want to explain briefly, for those who do not know about this disease, what ALS is.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: It is more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS is a motor neuron disease that was first described in 1869 by the French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot, and it was called Charcot Disease at that time. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. When motor neurons die, the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. Lou Gehrig brought attention to this disease when he retired from the New York Yankees back on July 4, 1939. He was diagnosed with ALS on his 36th birthday on June 19, 1939. There are approximately 5,600 people diagnosed every year. 60% are men, and 93% are Caucasian, generally between the ages of 40 and 70.

Jeff's motto is: "I won't let a little thing like ALS stop me from enjoying life." And from everything I am hearing, he is living life to the fullest.

I met with Jeff Johnson on April 25th in his Wallingford apartment to interview him. I had a bunch of questions prepared, but actually the interview took off on its own path, which didn't surprise me. He handed me a couple of pieces of paper he and his mother, Pat, had typed up, and I am going to use that in his own words, and then I will add some other comments at the end.

This is Jeff's story. My family and friends play an important role in my fight with ALS. My symptoms began in July of 2004. For the first two years it affected only my left shoulder, arm, and hand. I went through months of testing and was told in 2006 that I might have ALS. I was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease in March of 2007. I continued to work and make deliveries for Brescome/Barton until it became too difficult to lift cases, and I retired on a disability on July 1, 2007. After 22 years with Teamsters Local 443, I was able to draw an early pension.

As the disease spread to my right arm and legs, I had to give up all the activities I have always enjoyed, like running, canoe racing, softball, and bowling. At this point, I have a lot of time on my hands trying to adjust and finding things to do. I found it difficult to talk to anyone about the disease. By the summer of 2008, ALS was really putting a strain on my marriage. I have three daughters, Kelli, who is 16, Colleen, who is 14, and Cassidy, who is 8 years old. [In my interview with Jeff, I asked him what his greatest achievement had been in his life, and he pointed to a photo on the wall of his three daughters.]

By now my speech was starting to be affected, and I needed more help with eating and other daily tasks. Due to stress and various factors, I needed to find another place to live. My sister, Kara, was kind enough to break her lease where she was living, and we found a three-bedroom apartment. I moved in on November 22, 2008, and Kara came to live with me shortly after that. She does all the chores and shopping.

ALS patients cannot live alone. The Connecticut VNA comes for an hour and a half in the morning and at night. I don't know what I would do without them. During the day, my mom is here to assist with bill paying, phone calls, sending emails, and running errands, et cetera. At night, either Kara is here or my friends Tony Leonardi or Mike Becker stop by to help. I have a Lifeline in the event I am alone and should fall or need assistance.

My brother, Mike Mezerewski, keeps me busy by taking me to various sporting events. He also monitors my weight and muscle loss, which was 35 pounds in a year. He was also helping me work out in the gym to strengthen my legs, but I have recently stopped the work at the gym.

My father, Pete, who lives in Florida, will fly up for holidays, doctors' appointments, and events such as a recent walk-a-thon in Fairfield. [Jeff completed the one-mile walk with his family members rooting him on, and it was every bit as difficult as the 26-mile marathons he ran so many times, takes the same mind-set, and the last marathon he ran was in April 2006, the Boston Marathon, and he already had ALS.] My father also flew my friend Tony and me to Florida for the Daytona 500 back in February. We went to an ALS demonstration in Washington, D.C., and he flew me to California to consult with a specific doctor.

Recently there have been a lot of wonderful experiences. My good friend Tony Leonardi surprised me with Opening Day Yankee tickets nine rows behind the dugout! Another friend, Mike Becker, set up a luncheon for me and the granddaughter of Babe Ruth, and she gave us Babe memorabilia. On the weekends I am constantly being visited by old friends and former coworkers. I joined Facebook, and reconnected with many people.

ALS is a very difficult and depressing disease, but I find that I don't get depressed as long as I have wonderful people around me. Setting goals and having things to look forward to keeps me going.

On May 2nd I will have gone to a Yankees game in New York, which my dad flew in from Florida to attend, and the tickets were given to me by my high school friend, Michele Candelora Pollack. Thanks, Michele.

In June I will be going to a Yankees game, which is due to the generous donation of four tickets by Kara's boss, Bill Meany, VP Metro of the Lindenmeyr Munroe Paper Company.
On June 27th, I will be walking in a walk-a-thon at the Connecticut Irish Festival at the North Haven Fairgrounds. We are still looking at prices for shirts we need for over 100 people. It will say "JJ's Pit Crew" on the shirts. People from the ALS Foundation will be there.

On August 16th we are having a fund-raiser, which Kara and my sister-in-law Kathy Mezerewski are organizing. It will take place at Amato's in Northford. There will be lots of food, maybe a comedian, raffles, horseshoes, volleyball, and a guaranteed good time for all.

I am currently awaiting a drug called IPLEX, which was distributed in the USA previously and was pulled by the FDA in 2007. Since that time, it was only available in Italy. In October of 2008, the FDA announced they were going to release IPLEX again in the USA, and I was looking forward to starting it in December. Then many roadblocks occurred. A small group of people (18-20) are now using IPLEX and are being closely tracked. I am hoping that their success will open up the door to all ALS patients. In the meantime, I am taking injections of Increlex twice a day. It is a growth hormone.

That is where Jeff's notes stopped. Jeff made it clear to me that he wants his story to be inspirational and not negative. He basically refuses to think about the inevitable, and says he is
"Too busy doing making the most of each day now." He mentioned "Live Like You Were Dying," a country song, and did I know it. I had to admit, I did not. So he clicked a few things on his computer and printed out the lyrics. I don't think Tim McGraw would mind that I borrowed his title for this story. I thought it really captured the feeling Jeff has about life right now. You might want to look up the lyrics if you are not familiar with them, but some of the words go like this:

"'And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter, and I gave forgiveness I'd been denying.' And he said, 'Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying... And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter, and I watched an eagle as it was flying.' And he said, 'Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you were dying.'"

Thanks, Jeff. You are an inspiration not only to other people with ALS, but to me and to all of your family and to all of your friends who have stayed by your side and love you for everything you are and for everything you dream and hope to yet accomplish. And accomplish those dreams and hopes, you will.

Note: For information on ALS, visit the Connecticut site at http://webct.alsa.org and the worldwide site at www.alsworldwide.com. To read about Ben Byer, a young filmmaker, who documented his journey with ALS on camera spanning three years in a movie called Indestructible or to order his amazing film on DVD, visit www.indestructiblefilm.com. I ordered the DVD and watched it, and it is very informative and inspirational. Barb
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Hunting for the Perfect Fit
By Katrina S. AxelrodPresident, Meriden ArtsTrust, Inc.
I have been hunting for funders for the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra and it has taken me on some wild and wonderful side trips. There have been several dead ends, too. I thought maybe I could assist other people in the same search, so I share it here. Some people go to the Internet first. When you go to the Internet, you find all manner of people ready to sell you things. There are Professional Fund Raising Companies. Some are helpful, some aren�t. Everybody wants to make a buck. Be careful.Then there are the Foundations. Allow me to save you some time about foundation searches. Each foundation has funding priorities. Each foundation will fund some things and not others. I look for Music, Arts, Young People, Children, After School programs and Instruments. For the most part, to look elsewhere is a waste of time. There are always exceptions, but just be disciplined.Obtain your Internal Revenue Service (IRS), 501-c-3 or equivalent documentation before going to any foundation. This document, with its rather lengthy application document, may take you some time to complete and it will take some doing on your part to put together a good team (Board of Directors, etc.). The effort is worth it. You get to know your program better, you find more like-minded people in the process and it proves that you can do some simple bookkeeping to keep donations straight; all good things. Now, it takes about seven or so months to be processed in most cases, so start with a positive attitude and see it through. It is worth all of the time and effort (and occasional sweat) you put into it and when the thing comes in the mailbox you will feel accomplished! Have a party! You HAVE accomplished!The government requires a DUNS number in order to fund a program. I have yet to do this for the Meriden ArtsTrust, Inc., but I�m going to do it in the future. Who knows? It may come in handy and it won�t cost anything to do. Look it up on the Internet if you are interested in obtaining government funds. Do your homework. There are books in the library, ask the nice Reference Librarian for assistance. Bring a big pad of paper and a few pencils; you can�t check out a reference book. Look for words that are familiar to your work. Write everything that is related down- everything. Make a copy if the entrance is a big one. When asking a foundation for a grant, you are asking the foundation to believe in you and your program as much as you do. You need to make a strong case why your group is more worthy than others, the foundation has limits on its money. Read the guidelines very carefully. If it says telephone, then telephone for the first contact. If it says letter, get your stamps ready. If you can do it with an e-mail, then e-mail a nice, informative letter that shows your program in a good light. Go with what the foundation asks. Be memorable, but don�t get cutesy. This is a business and is run as a business. Facts, facts, facts. Show them why you put all of your love and work into your very worthy project.Letters of Inquiry (LOI): some foundations want to get to know you by having you send in a LOI before you send in a full proposal. You write down what the foundation asks of you, and you send it off with a little pat on the po-po. If it is within the foundation�s priorities, they will contact you. Or, you may never hear from them again. Use your best manners, too. You may follow up, but don�t be surprised if they already said somewhere back in that library reference book that they don�t accept unsolicited letters of inquiry. Watch out for that. Just let it go, your mistake! You�ll only do it once to learn not to do it again! That was a lot of work for nothing.Make a new proposal for each foundation, tailor it to what they want, how they present themselves and how you present yourself. Do not copy a proposal and just fill in the name. It is tacky, and it won�t get funded. You must do your homework. Remember, you want to be working with these people during the grant time and after, be cordial informative and patient. Really patient. There are family foundations that meet once a year, there are big foundations whose Distributions Board meets quarterly, with very complicated and fancy rules for how you go about determining how well your program succeeded-called the evaluation. Read up on the different kinds.There are corporate foundations that serve the cities in which their companies have a footprint; an office or a manufacturing plant or historical roots. They have rules and regulations that need to be considered, too. Everybody has very specific rules, so that they don�t get swamped with requests for everything.Finding the perfect fit may be finding the good fit. If you think that the foundation has the priorities of your program, then ask. Don�t waste people�s time. Be businesslike and state your case. They will tell you if they wish to learn more about your cause. When they tell you they can�t help you, BE POLITE. Number one, it is the thing to do, and, number 2, you may see these people again and they may remember you for the gracious way you understood their limitations when it came to your program. Think of it as �brownie points� towards professionalism.So, for people who think that �Foundations� are the end-all and be-all of fund raising, nuh-uh. You must put in many hours of fund raising without foundations help, in order to prove that you are worthy and will be around. Fund raising is only partly foundation-centered. Fundraisers, raffles, car washes, walks, whatever it takes, that is what it takes. Then approach foundations, with a proven track record of success. Speaking of fundraising- the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra is having two benefit concerts in June, June 7th at the Lincoln Middle School Auditorium at 3:00, when the CCCYO themselves will play and then a different benefit on Saturday, June 13th from 6-9, when professional musicians will perform many kinds of music including Jazz, Broadway and Classical for the scholarship programs of the CCCYO and the Q. Walter Peabody Foundation. This one will be at the Immanuel Lutheran Church on Hanover Street, at the corner of Cooke in Meriden. Please come to one or both, these are wonderful programs of music for young people.I�ve barely scratched the surface of fundraising, but this will get you started. Do your library work. There is nothing magic about foundation fundraising, on the contrary, it can be some pretty hard work, but you know that it is worth it. I�ll write again about other ways to help your group. I hope this helps and that you are successful in your fundraising. For more information, feel free to contact me at meridenartstrust@yahoo.com. I�ll do what I can to help. KSA
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Ryan C. Gordon Memorial Kiddush Cup

Wallingford�s Congregation Beth Israel will be hosting The Ryan C. Gordon Memorial Kiddush Cup Golf Outing on Thursday, June 4, 2009 at The Tradition at Wallingford.

Celebrating its 10th year, the Kiddush Cup was renamed 4 years ago after 19 year old Ryan Gordon, a young congregant who passed away after a 3 month, courageous battle with cancer. A week before he died, Ryan requested that his unused college funds be donated to charities that he felt had benefited him throughout his lifetime. His explicit hope was that his gifts would inspire others to give.

Beth Israel, in honoring Ryan�s legacy, will be donating one half of all Kiddush Cup proceeds to Ryan�s Circle of Giving (RCG), a 501(c)(3) charitable fund that will annually donate 100% of all contributions to those charities that Ryan championed. Last year, Beth Israel�s Kiddush Cup contribution to RCG enabled this fund to donate over $19,000 to:

-The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation -The Ryan Gordon Endowment Fund at the Kingswood-Oxford School, a financially-driven scholarship that enables deserving students to attend the school�s Team-Tobati yearly trip to Paraguay. Team Tobati is an all-volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to working with and assisting the poor of Tobati, Paraguay-The Yale Cancer Center�s Thoracic Oncology Program. Donations godirectly towards thoracic oncology research.
-The Ryan Gordon/Hartford Wolf Pack Community Foundation Scholars Fund at Trinity College. This Fund was established to provide deserving Hartford youths with the opportunity to learn to play the game of hockey.

The Shotgun/Scramble format will begin with a 7:45 � 8:45 a.m. registration and continental breakfast, an 8:00 putting contest and a 9:00 tee-off. A kosher meal, award ceremony and silent and live auction, MC�d by Fox61 Sports Broadcaster Rich Coppola will follow.

The tournament will offer men and mixed team prizes, raffles, a 50/50 pot, 2 Hole-in-One opportunities and much more! Registration Fee is $155. Dinner only is $45 and will begin between 2:30 � 3:00 p.m.

To learn more about the tournament and sponsorship opportunities or to download a brochure, go to http://www.bethisraelwallingford.org/ and follow Kiddush Cup link. You can also call Phyllis Gordon at 203-269-5094 or Todd Schwartz at 203-235-4314 or email pgordon@snet.net. To learn more about RCG, go to http://www.ryanscircleofgiving.com/.

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Your Future is Now�

I hear people saying it�s a very bad time
And some complain that they don�t have a dime
But in reality this is a period of gold
A time to be active, a time to be bold

It�s a time to work hard some don�t know what that means
It�s now peanut butter, hotdogs and beans
It�s a time of transition, a time to invent
A time for connecting to the glories God sent

There are three things we all have that are the same
It�s time, money and creativity - so let�s start the game
If you have time, use it wisely each and every day
Help someone else in a spiritual way

Give of your money to those whose fortune is less
But still pay some bills and clean up your mess
It costs nothing to walk and enjoy the outdoors
Or use a row boat� with those great big oars

Remember without valleys, there are no mountains to climb
So enjoy the river, the scenery and every church chime
Know that in history this has happened before
In every town and city and in every war

Watch what comes out of your mouth - keep it positive talk
Spend time watching others, watch them like a hawk
For negatives will not help you but hustling will
And soon things will change and you�ll pay every bill

So pull the plug on the computer the TV and all
And spend time with your children, breathe fresh air and play ball

Many jobs that will be available in fifteen years
Have not yet been created, so wipe away your tears
We have all been a part of the change we now see
Forget about saying �oh goodness, poor me�

Get going right now, and do your part
Do what you know is your passion, it�s straight from your heart
Have we been mindless and is �worry� your theme?
Forget it for now for it�s time to daydream

We must clean up the environment and regain our health
Think of each other and not just our wealth
It�s time to sparkle and laugh every day
And enjoy one another and what loved ones say

So walk in the rain and enjoy the sunshine too
Love and have faith in all that you do
You�re starting to climb, this you believe and know
For your future is now - you are starting to grow

Carolyn Finch
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ORPHAN LANDS

Prescription drug remedies without a substantial market are often ignored by major drug companies leaving a gap of neglect for those with rare diseases. Likewise, in many cases, big environmental groups tend to ignore focusing on the positive but less popular end of environment and land use work: fighting to preserve existing industrial and commercial land for these designated purposes. This is particularly true when the land has natural or legal characteristics that support such uses.

�Keeping land available for coastal and other industrial uses, including rail yards, rail rights-of-way, ports, shipyards, and other suitable activities is in everyone�s interest and deserves the focused attention of environmental groups,� said Bill Urban, Executive Director of the Connecticut Conservation Association (�CCA�).

CCA is best known as the Great Meadows. This stretch of land is now part of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge and is about to get a major addition of protected land when Stratford and Bridgeport complete the sale and transfer of Pleasure Beach properties to the Federal Government.

Less known is CCA�s battle to preserve the former Carpenter Technology site from real estate developers that somehow thought this deep water site on the East End of Bridgeport Harbor is best suited for a retail development; in this case, a Price Club. The developers claimed that a public walkway along the waterfront was sufficient to satisfy the Coastal Area Management Act�s requirement that such sites must be used for appropriate water related activities. CCA disagreed emphatically and filed suit in Bridgeport�s Superior Court.

CCA argued that a natural deep water area with a water related industrial history should be preserved only for such activities; and not be used as scenic viewing stands for condo dwellers or shoppers. CCA�s case claimed that such land is very limited, serves an industrial economic purpose, customarily provides jobs with wages well above retail and can support national security in times of war. Further, CCA offered evidence of toxic pollutants on the site that were highly likely to disqualify it for any use other than industrial.
T
he Developers, The Bridgeport Regional Business Council, the City of Bridgeport and other interested parties joined the fray showing up in court as a line of 1,500 dollar suits touting big name firms. CCA fielded just one underpaid attorney with a tweed jacket, a professorial looking sweater, and enough paper to block-out any sign of a table top on the Plaintiff�s side of the court.

Urban said, �We had hoped to save the site for a deepwater related use and establish case law that differentiated deep water areas with industrial histories from properties that simply have a water view and are unlikely to provide deepwater uses. However, although we failed to make any case law, the suit ended with a hardy �CCA Mission Accomplished� when we introduced evidence of the site�s industrial contamination and the Price Club promptly abandoned the project.�

Today the site is occupied by the Connecticut Derector Shipyard. It employs over 200 well paid (As opposed to low wage retail jobs) workers, builds ferries, tug boats, yachts and other commercial vessels and sells them to the world at large bringing millions of dollars into Connecticut economy and the families of Bridgeport area workers. The Derector Shipyard is now building what is believed to be the world�s largest yacht, two 130 foot tug boats for Boston Harbor operations, and recently completed construction of a major ferry for the Alaska Ferry system.

Urban concluded, �I call that a win-win for all. The more we see of this kind of conservation the more we will see reductions in the pressures for sprawl and unnecessary road traffic.�

Eds Note: The Connecticut Conservation Association is a non profit, tax exempt, membership group with an office in Bridgeport. CCA can be reached at 203-384-2000. Memberships and donations greatly appreciated. CCA is a founding member of Earthshare New England.

FOR LEXOPHILES (LOVERS OF WORDS): Read Carefully1. A bicycle can't stand alone; it is two tired.2. A will is a dead giveaway. 3. Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.4. A backward poet writes inverse.5. In a democracy it's your vote that counts; in feudalism, it's your Count that votes.6. A chicken crossing the road: poultry in motion. 7. If you don't pay your exorcist you can get repossessed.8. With her marriage she got a new name and a dress.9. Show me a piano falling down a mine shaft and I'll show you A-flat miner.10. When a clock is hungry it goes back four seconds. 11. The guy who fell onto an upholstery machine was fully recovered.12. A grenade fell onto a kitchen floor in France, resulting in Linoleum Blownapart.13. You are stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.14. Local Area Network in Australia: The LAN down under.15. He would often have to break into song because he couldn't find the key.16. A calendar's days are numbered.17. A lot of money is tainted: 'Taint yours, and 'taint mine.18. A boiled egg is hard to beat. 19. He had a photographic memory which was never developed.20. A plateau is a high form of flattery.21. A short fortuneteller who escaped from prison: a small medium at large.22. Those who get too big for their britches will be exposed in the end.23. When you've seen one shopping center you've seen a mall.24. If you jump off a Paris bridge, you are in Seine.25. When she saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye !!!26. Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead to know basis.27. Santa's helpers are subordinate clauses.28. Acupuncture: a jab well done.

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One Woman's Journal
By Audrey C. Linke

Mike was a relative of a relative, maybe still a teen-ager when the tragedy occurred. I knew him slightly and I knew his mother from conversations shared at family gatherings. Mike was a boy to be proud of, and his family was, of course.

As he drove along in the town where he lived, a little girl suddenly stepped off the sidewalk in front of his car. With not so much as a split second to react, Mike had no choice but to hit her.

When we heard about the terrible untimely death of a small child, we were, like everyone else, horrified. The bereaved family of the little girl would be comforted by an entire community, but what of the other family?

I don't remember how much time went by before I decided to write to Mike. I don't even know if it was my decision, but the thought kept nagging at me until I knew I had to do something. I found a note card and with pen in hand sat down at my kitchen table with the thought that I must write something sympathetic to this fine young man whose life had been interrupted as surely as was the life of the little girl who died. Mike was young, would have a long time to live with the inevitable guilt.

I didn't know what to write, but out of nowhere the Serenity Prayer came to me and I began with that. Then I remembered that I had a small key chain with the Serenity Prayer on it. I tucked it in with the note and sent it on its way.

I didn't know what I expected to accomplish with that simple prayer: "God grant me the courage to change the things I can, accept the things I can't change, and the wisdom to know the difference." But this is what I learned later from Jean, Mike's mom.

When the note came, Mike immediately put his car keys on the key chain. Up until then, he had been unable to get behind the wheel of his car and did not plan to ever drive again. Jean took the note and drove over to her church and showed it to her priest. She, too, was lifted from her sadness.

"You'd be surprised," she said, "At how few people expressed concern for us, the family that had to live with the tragedy from the other side of the accident."

I don't know what triggered this memory, but it is a reminder that when we are led to do something in the name of Love, we should do it, for Love heals. Love is a valuable gift, a blessing to both the giver and the receiver.

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MOTHERS Real Mothers don't eat quiche; they don't have time to make it. Real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox. Real Mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens and happy kids. Real Mothers know that dried play dough doesn't come out of carpets. Real Mothers don't want to know what the vacuum just sucked up. Real Mothers sometimes ask 'Why me?' and get their answer when a little voice says, 'Because I love you best.' Real Mothers know that a child's growth is not measured by height or years or grade... It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother... The Images of Mother 4 YEARS OF AGE - My Mommy can do anything! 8 YEARS OF AGE - My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot! 12 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother doesn't really know quite everything. 14 YEARS OF AGE - Naturally, Mother doesn't know that, either. 16 YEARS OF AGE - Mother? She's hopelessly old-fashioned. 18 YEARS OF AGE - That old woman? She's way out of date! 25 YEARS OF AGE - Well, she might know a little bit about it! 35 YEARS OF AGE - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion. 45 YEARS OF AGE - Wonder what Mom would have thought about it? 65 YEARS OF AGE - Wish I could talk it over with Mom. The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows, and the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows! Please send this to 5 Mom's today. If you don't, nothing bad will happen, but if you do, something good will: You will boost a Mother spirits.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Local News and Events May 2009

2009-05-07T10:13:00.004-04:00

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

A Special Luncheon

The luncheon will be held at the Evangelical and Reformed U.C.C. located at 105 South Cherry Street in Wallingford on May 31st. The Menu will include Vegetable Soup, Beef Stew (Porkolt), Mashed Potatoes, Spring Vegetables, Coffee and Desert. A $10.00 donation to the church is requested. A raffle will also be held. Come one and Come all! Any questions please don�t hesitate to call 203.269.2708.

Volunteers Needed For the Naugatuck River Race, May 9th
Political leaders all along the Naugatuck River have been invited to jump back in their kayaks and canoes to compete in the 2nd Annual Naugatuck River Race, a 6 mile adventure from Waterbury to Beacon Falls.

Employees and volunteers from towns and cities along the Naugatuck River will again vie to win the Perpetual Trophy, which will be awarded to the top finishers in the canoe and kayak divisions. The trophy will sit in the winning paddlers town hall until next year�s race.

Waterbury mayor, Michael Jarjura, was a courageous participant last year, and despite flipping his canoe three times, finished second with canoe partner Jim Sullivan. Mayor Jarjura has been invited again this year, but has yet to confirm or deny his participation.

Former Governor John Rowland has committed to race this year and said he is 100% in. Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal has promised to participate, and Beacon Falls First Selectwoman Susan Cables is onboard for her second river adventure.

Personal invitations have been mailed to more than 70 influential community leaders, including Rob Simmons, Chris Murphy, Joan Hartley, Ryan Bingham, Gary O�Conner, Neil O�Leary and J. Paul Vance Jr.

Dave Faber, the owner of Connecticut Outdoors, a canoe and kayak shop straddling the Waterbury-Watertown line, is one of the 12-committee members organizing the race.

�We already have some people registered for the race,� Faber said, �but like last year we expect a lot of action right before the event.�

On race day morning last year the organizers had 40 boats registered, but an additional 170 showed up to register on site.

�We hope to have as many people again this year,� Faber said.

At the moment � one month away from the event � the organizers are busy trying to recruit 50 to 100 volunteers to help provide safety along the sides of the river. Faber said it would be ideal if the event could get first responders from the various communities to assist in keeping the community leaders safe.

�We have targeted the potential rough spots along the river and numbered them,� Faber said.

�We want to have two to four physically fit people at each spot to assist boaters if they capsize.

We are looking for a two hour commitment, and then we can transport the volunteers down river where they can enjoy the music festival in Beacon Falls.�

Volunteers can contact Becky Purdy at 860-485-8530 or e-mail her at imrlp5@hotmail.com. Volunteers can also contact Dave Faber at 860-274-6213, or e-mail him at david@4ctoutdoors.com

Faber said it is his hope that the race continues to change the perception that greater Waterbury has about the Naugatuck River. �It is a great resource and it is our river,� Faber said. �The Naugatuck River has fired our industry, helped feed our families, and now it�s time that we take proper care of it.�

Kevin Zak is also helping to plan the race and has been instrumental in forming the Naugatuck River Revival Group. Zak lives in the Platts Mills section of Naugatuck and has a missionary�s zeal to clean up the river in the south end. In the past two years Zak has removed hundreds of tires, 70 shopping carts, pay phones, car parts and mattresses. Using a chain saw Zak created a mile long walking path along the river, and is a strong advocate for a greenway stretching along the Naugatuck River from Beacon Falls to Torrington.

�The real winner of the race is the Naugatuck River,� Zak said. �We want people to realize how beautiful this river is.�

During a recent trip down the river Zak said he saw an otter, beavers, muskrat, waterfowl and what he believed to be a school of large salmon.

�There is still litter along the shore that needs to be cleaned up,� Zak said. �But the river has healed itself these past 30 years.�

All Paddlers are welcomed and there will be several classes. The expert course is 6.5 miles long and the novice run is six miles long. The race is a sanctioned race for professional kayak and canoe racers, but paddlers need not be NECKRA members to race. Preregistration fee is $14, day of the race $18. For more information about the race call Dave Faber at Connecticut Outdoors in Watertown at 860-274-6213, or visit his website at http://www.4ctoutdoors.com/

Rental boats are available at Connecticut Outdoors in the Old Pin Shop on the Waterbury/Watertown town line. Registration is from 8-10 am, the novices are set to start at 11 am, and the experts at 11:30. The event is to benefit The Naugatuck River Revival Group.
A music festival is planned to start at noon in Beacon Falls featuring local talent & cuisine.

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The Twelfth Annual Town of Wallingford �Doherty Cup�Golf Championships 2009
The Twelfth Annual Town of Wallingford �Doherty Cup� Golf Championship 2009 will be held on Tuesday, July 7th at the Wallingford Country Club.Rain date will be on Wednesday, July 8. The popular tournament raises monies for the Doherty Scholarship Fund., a scholarship that was created in 1997 upon the untimely death of David J. Doherty, a popular town councilman and Sheehan High School Civics teacher. The Doherty Scholarship Fund is a non-profit organization dedicated to providingtwo $2,500 scholarships to eligible Sheehan High School Seniors and donating $1,000 annually, to20the Wallingford YMCA�s Youth and Government Program, David established at the Y many years ago. TheDoherty family, which hosts the tournament, extends the invitation to all to come and support its event and enjoy a day of comradery and fun! This year the tournament not only has its traditional individual medal play championship, but also features a new option of play, a four-person team scramble event championship! The day is highlighted with special events and prizes, and features our special Doherty Cup presenter, Mayor William Dickinson. For more information on the tournaments and a copy of this year�s brochure, please contact John and Elaine Doherty at 203.265.7349.____________________________________________________________________________________________________Wallingford

Family YMCA Community Tag & Craft Sale

Saturday, May 9th (Rain Date: Saturday, May 16th) 8:00-5:00 p.m. Doolittle Park Pavilion, South Elm Street Wallingford
$25 to rent a table to benefit YMCA Strorg Kids Camp *You Profit from your own treasure!*
Reserve your table today! For more information or to book a table contact Nancy Early at 284-5328 or Jenna Schmidt at 269-4497

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Temple Beth David Hosts Family Caregiver Workshop

On Wednesday May 6, from 5:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Family Caregiver Access Network (FCAN) will sponsor a Family Caregiver Workshop at Temple Beth David, 3 Main Street, Cheshire. The workshop will address the concerns of family members who care for an aging spouse or parents, and who may feel tired, overwhelmed or confused by their responsibilities, or who may need a helping hand. Training and support for this workshop is being given by the Agency on Aging for South Central Connecticut.

The workshop is free and open to the public. A light dinner will be served. Space is limited, however. To make a reservation or for further information, please contact Jonathan Reiner, Project Manager, (203) 387-2424 ext. 320 or jreiner@jewishnewhaven.org.

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THE BIRDS ARE BACK IN TOWN AT MYSTIC AQUARIUM & INSTITUTE FOR EXPLORATION!
Popular Birds of the Outback exhibit to open on May 2

MYSTIC, Conn. (April 23, 2009) � Our feathered friends from down under are back to summer at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration. �Birds of the Outback,� the only exhibit of its kind in New England, returns on May 2.

The enclosed 1,200-square-foot aviary houses hundreds of colorful cockatiels, parakeets and rosellas, all native to Australia. With the $3 exhibit entry fee (plus aquarium admission), guests receive a millet seed stick for feeding the birds. Once inside the exhibit, where the friendly birds sing and fly freely, simply hold the stick in the air and watch them swoop down to perch on your arm and eat right out of your hands!

Guests will also learn about the birds� habitat and behaviors, as well as the issues and challenges currently facing birds in the wild.

WHAT: �Birds of the Outback,� a temporary, interactive exhibit that allows guests to have close encounters with hundreds of Australian birds and feed them right from their hands

WHEN: May 2 to September 13. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

WHERE: Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355

COST: $3 per person, plus aquarium admission.

For more information, call (860) 572-5955 or visit mysticaquarium.org.

About Sea Research Foundation, Inc.Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Presents are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a private, non-profit, charitable organization incorporated in the State of Connecticut. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
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James H. Napier Foundation 2009 Grantmaking Priorities

Grantmaking Philosophy: James H. Napier Foundation is committed to helping non-profit organizations meet the existing and emerging needs of children, youth and families, especially those living in the Meriden and Wallingford, CT area.

Program priorities: The Foundation will fund within these five categories:

Education - Grants that support after-school and in-school programs, adolescent programs, early childhood programs, adult literacy and training, family literacy, and family support programs.

Youth Services - Grants that support programs providing recreation, culture, leadership and life skills for youth.

Health and Human Services - Grants that support the improvement and/or expansion of health and human services for residents.

Organizational Capacity-Building - Grants aimed at strengthening the organizational capacity of nonprofit agencies serving children, youth and families. Non-profits may apply for grants to address critical management and governance issues. Projects may address issues including (but not limited to): board/staff development, marketing, strategic planning, strategic restructuring and communication.

Special Initiatives - Occasionally, the Trustees will consider funding projects and programs that are unique, innovative and of special interest to the majority of the Trustees.

Early Childhood priority: The James H. Napier Foundation is taking a leadership role in supporting the Meriden Blueprint for Young Children, a multi-year action plan designed to better prepare young children for success in school and life. The plan�s three strategic goal areas are: 1.) Early Care & Education; 2.) Family Support; and 3.) Child Health & Development. These goals align with the Meriden Board of Education�s District Improvement Plan and the priorities of the Governor�s Early Childhood Cabinet. The Foundation requests that applicants review the Blueprint at http://www.meridenchildrenfirst.org/ and connect your proposed program activities (where applicable) to the goals and recommendations outlined in the Blueprint.

Geographic priorities:
First priority will be given to non-profit organizations located in the Meriden and Wallingford, CT area.

Funding levels: The range of grants made from unrestricted funds is typically between $1,000 and $10,000.

Type of organizations that may apply:
501 (c)(3) organizations.
Civic organizations (proposals must be project-based and of charitable nature, and the organization must have a fiscal agent that is a 501 (c)(3)).
Faith-based organizations; however, proposals will only be considered if: 1.) services benefit all, regardless of religion; 2.) service provided is not religious in nature; and 3.) there is no proselytizing associated with the service.

Annual grant deadlines: January 10, April 10, July 10 and September 30.

Types of programs/organizations not funded: The foundation does not typically fund special events.

Factors considered when reviewing proposals:
1. Response to a Need in the Community -- Does the proposal aim to meet a specific need in the community? Perhaps it �plugs a hole� for a population or provides a service that has been overlooked in the past. If so, what is the need and how do you know there is a need (i.e., statistics, past work, etc.)?

2. Geographic Scope -- The foundation has limited resources and recognizes that there are a great number of community needs and programs. With this in mind, the closer the match with the Foundation's stated geographic focus area, the better.

3. Innovative Approach -- New models and approaches to community needs are encouraged. The Foundation values proposals from grassroots organizations and/or for seed money to start a project or program that meets existing or emerging needs. The Foundation also values proposals that act as a catalyst for future activity in meeting a community need.

4. Collaboration-- The Foundation receives many proposals for similar purposes, and it is sometimes difficult to know why multiple proposals exist and who is best equipped to receive funding. The Foundation appreciates the ability of organizations to work together and to share resources towards a common goal. Specifically, the Foundation requests that applicants connect activities and services (where applicable) to the goals and recommendations outlined in the Meriden Blueprint for Young Children.

5. Leveraging Resources--While this is not a high priority, the Foundation appreciates seeing that its funding will help to secure matching funds or challenge grants, or that it will attract future funding and/or other resources.

6. Capacity Building -- Does the proposal help to build long-term capacity (skills and resources) in the community, the organization and/or to a particular sector or segment of the population? The Trustees consider the impact of the grant on the organization (i.e., for smaller organizations, the grant may have a larger impact).

Sample grants:
Non-profit organization
Project funded
Grant amount
Child Guidance Clinic of Central CT
Fund Development � three years of support for a part-time position to expand the fundraising capacity of the agency.
$30,000 over three years
Gaylord Hospital
Remote control speakerphones - equipment for spinal cord injury patients to better communicate.
$2,500
Literacy Volunteers of New Haven County
Tutor Tool Kits � manuals for new tutors to better serve students. The tool kits include lesson plans, supplemental curricula and classroom materials
$4,773
Wallingford Early Childhood Alliance Resources and Education (WE CARE)
Bilingual Playgroup � staff support for a bilingual playgroup to meet the needs of new residents.
$3,000

To obtain a grant application, submit questions or discuss a potential application: Please contact Daria Smith, Administrator, James H. Napier Foundation, 35 Pleasant Street, Suite 1E, Meriden, CT 06450, (860) 681-7599 0r (203) 235-4403 x17. Email is napierfdn@hotmail.com.

______________________________________________________________________________________ Quassy Initiative As A Non-Gated Park �Unprecedented�
Putting A Positive Spin On The Economic Downturn

MIDDLEBURY, Conn. � While the economic downturn is adversely affecting many families and businesses throughout the nation, a New England icon is putting a positive spin on things.

From holding prices at 2008 levels to bringing in top-notch free entertainment, Quassy Amusement Park has embarked on an initiative to better serve its guests and the community during these difficult economic times.

�Many parks are cutting back on their live entertainment, if not doing away with it altogether,� noted George Frantzis II, a co-owner of the lakeside park that has been in his family for 72 years. �It would have been easy for us to have gone down the same path, but instead we are putting our best foot forward and making a statement to the communities that have supported us throughout the years.�

Quassy, which charges no general admission, will feature three world-class performing troupes during the height of the summer season at its Vacation Village Resorts Lakeside Theatre stage. The featured acts will be Cirque Equinox, The Kent Family Magic Circus and the Kenya Safari Acrobats.

�By presenting this rotating entertainment schedule, it gives families an opportunity to visit the park on several occasions and see a different act,� added co-owner Eric Anderson. �We�ve never before brought in three acts of this high caliber during one season � it�s unprecedented.�

Despite an economy in a furious tailspin, Quassy felt there was no better time than now to react with its unique initiative.

�These shows are of great expense to the park, yet there is no admission fee at Quassy,� Anderson pointed out. �This summer you can visit the park on numerous occasions and see different shows.�

The Kent Family Magic Circus will be at the park for two weeks during August and actually present at least three entirely different shows. Cirque Equinox will also have a variety show with variations in each performance.

The Kenya Safari Acrobats will return for their third consecutive summer at Quassy, performing for two weeks. Their high-energy performances draw large audiences and resounding response.
Local magician Daniel Greenwolf will take the stage July 9-15, Quassy officials noted.

Prices That Are Still Affordable
�Affordable Family Fun� has long been the slogan associated with Quassy Amusement Park.
�President Obama has promised sweeping change across America, but one thing that isn�t changing will be the affordable pricing at Quassy,� quipped Anderson. �With operational costs continuing to rise, we made a tough decision in holding our pricing at 2008 levels for �09.�
Quassy charges $5 for parking, with the exception being July 4 when the fee is $7.

Guests are then free to walk through the amusement park and enjoy the stage entertainment and other special events.

For those who want to participate on the rides and �Saturation Station� interactive water play area, all-day wristbands are $17 for those under 45 inches tall and $21 for those 45 inches and taller. A separate admission to Quassy Beach and the waterpark may be purchased for $10 per person. Individual ride tickets are also available.

Quassy�s famous �25-Cent Friday Nights� return starting May 22. Ride tickets are only 25 cents each after 5 p.m. and the park also sells cotton candy and Pepsi for a quarter.
Another way to beat the economic blues for a night out with the family is the $20 carload special at

Quassy. Each Saturday after 5 p.m., May 23 through Sept. 5, up to 10 persons in a vehicle receive an evening wristband for only $20 � parking included. There will be no carload special July 4.

Win Tickets
Members of the Quassy Kids Club also have opportunities to win all-day wristband tickets through the park�s electronic newsletter. Kids Club members receive exclusive discounts and other offers throughout the park�s season. There is no fee to join the club at http://www.quassy.com/.
Community Support
Quassy Amusement Park hosts a number of community service events each year, including two fundraisers for the Greater Waterbury Campership Fund to send underprivileged children to summer camp.

�We�ve worked with the Campership Fund longer than anyone here can remember,� said Frantzis. �Our opening weekend in April is always dedicated to that project as well as Labor Day Weekend.�

Prevent Blindness Tri-State is the beneficiary of the park�s annual �3-D� fireworks on July 4 and Quassy also supports other non-profits such as Special Olympics, March of Dimes, Children First, the Connecticut Food Bank and others.
Students Find Work
Hundreds of local and area students find employment at Quassy Amusement Park during the summer.
�It�s almost considered a rite of passage locally to hold a summer job at Quassy,� Frantzis said. �Over the years thousands of young people held their first jobs here and that�s a very positive reflection for us. Soon, we start the process of bringing in a new era of Quassy employees while � at the same time � we will welcome back some of our seasoned staff.�
Recent Additions
The park has also aggressively reinvested in the property in recent years. The advent of �Saturation Station� in 2003 marked a milestone for Quassy as the park diversified into the waterpark industry. The following season the park purchased a �Yo-Yo� super swing ride.

The success of the waterpark led to an expansion in 2006 when two gigantic �Tunnel Twister� waterslides were installed.

Last year the park added the �Galleon� pirate ship and a �Family Fun Slide� while celebrating its centennial all summer (1908-2008).

In the interim, Quassy has reinvested heavily in the park�s infrastructure and also refurbished a number of its major and children�s attractions.

Quassy Amusement Park opens its 101st season on April 25. The park is currently booking educational school fieldtrips, corporate, scout and church outings as well as wedding receptions and family reunions.

With more than two-dozen rides and attractions, the park also features the �Saturation Station� interactive water play area, beach, restaurant, arcade, games, special events and entertainment.
For more information visit http://www.quassy.com/ or call 1-800-FOR-PARK.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Going To Bat For Families

Quassy Amusement Park owners Eric Anderson (left) and George Frantzis II aren�t cutting back because of tough economic times. They plan on bringing at least three great family acts to the park this season that will perform free daily shows at the Vacation Village Resorts Lakeside Theatre stage. The park is also holding ride wristband and ticket prices. Quassy does not charge a general admission to enter the amusement park. (Quassy photo slugged Eric Anderson and George Frantzis)

Families That Play Together�.

Quassy Amusement Park is known for �affordable family fun.� In 2008 - the park�s centennial � Quassy added a �Galleon� pirate ship (foreground) and made numerous other improvements to the property. Quassy has also given much back to the communities which have supported it over the years, and 2009 will be no different. (Quassy Photo slugged Park overview)

Additional photos on the compact disc include: Daniel Greenwolf, Cirque Equinox, Kent Family Magic Circus and Kenya Safari Acrobats. Refer to Cutlines page for information matching the photos.
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WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN�S CLUB ANNOUNCES
2nd ANNUAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK EVENT � TRUCKS WANTED

The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club will sponsor its 2nd Annual Touch-a-Truck on May 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chevrolet Theatre, and trucks are needed. This is a hands-on activity for children and parents to experience their favorite big trucks up close by climbing into the driver�s seat, honking the horn, and pretending to steer.

WJWC invites local truck owners to provide trucks for display and touching. Truck owners must provide a current certificate of insurance, a truck attendant at all times, and a truck that may be touched and/or sat in. Truck owners may distribute family-friendly promotional materials with WJWC approval.

For more information, please call Kathryn Speeg, WJWC Touch-a-Truck Committee Co-Chairwoman, at 203-284-5826.

The Wallingford Junior Woman�s Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. http://www.cjw.org/. WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and is a non-profit organization that promotes educational, philanthropic, community service work and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction. WJWC projects include the Townwide Spelling Bee and Children�s Area at Celebrate Wallingford, and partnerships with the League of Women Voters of Wallingford & Cheshire, Wallingford Symphony Orchestra, Wallingford Emergency Shelter, and American Red Cross. 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.

For more information about WJWC, call Mimi LaFrance, Membership Chairwoman, at 284-8544.

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The Wolfies Foundation

The Wolfies Foundation is a non-profit organization Wolfie is a 14 week old German Shepherd puppy that has a liver shunt and needs surgery. A problem that if not corrected would eventually cause his death.

Our last fundraising efforts was at Vinny's Deli in Wallingford with Wolfie and his sister Haylee greeting the customers.

Our wine tasting fundraiser will be held on May 22nd at Homewood Suites, Wallingford from 6:30 - 9:00. The tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. There will be raffles, cheese/crackers, appetizers and a door prize.

You can obtain tickets by calling 203-269-6906 or you can e-mail me at info@caninecadre.com. Any donations can be mailed to Wolfies Foundation, P. O. Box 4334, Yalesville, CT 06492

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Borders Books & Music in Meriden Announces May Events
Borders Books & Music, 470 Lewis Avenue, Meriden, Connecticut, has announced its roster of events for May.

May 1, 2009. The Monroe Doctrine. 7:30 pm. Live acoustic music from a dynamic new performer on the Connecticut music scene.

May 8, 2009. The Sawtelles. 7:30 pm. Live �nerve� rock music from this popular husband-wife duo.

May 9, 2009. Author Brooks Sigler. 1 pm. Please join Meriden native Brooks Sigler as she celebrates the release of her first novel, �Five Finger Fiction.�

May 15, 2009. The City Skyscape. 7:30 pm. Live alternative pop music from Christopher Mongillo aka The City Skyscape.

May 22, 2009. Eric Lichter. 7:30 pm. Live acoustic folk-pop music from this well-known shoreline musician promoting his latest CD, �Owl.�

May 29, 2009. Alexis Babini. 7:30 pm. Live pop rock music from this up-and-coming Connecticut musician debuting his new CD, �Breaking It In.�

Join Miss Meg for children's story time every Tuesday and Saturday in May at 10:30 am. Each week has a new, fun theme, along with a special craft. Open to all ages.

All events are free to the public. For additional information, please contact Borders at (203) 237-5510.
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The Evangelical & Reformed United Church of Christ,
on 105 So Cherry St. Wlfd.will have a special luncheon on May 31, 2009 at noon at the church.
Menu: Vegetable Soup Beef Strew (porkolt) Mashed Potatoes Spring Vegetables Coffee & DesertDonation: $10.00 Raffle will be held.
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Naugatuck Savings Bank
Promotes Home Ownership with $5 Million in Funding

Continuing our commitment to promote home ownership, Naugatuck Savings Bank has allocated $5 million in funding in 2009 for our First Time Homebuyer Program. The program allows qualified first time homebuyers in neighboring communities to achieve their goals of owning a home.

�We are committed to helping the people in our local communities achieve their dream of homeownership. Our First Time Homebuyer Program is another way we can help enrich the lives of people who live in surrounding areas by offering mortgage programs created for first time home borrowers� said Mark Yanarella, President and CEO of Naugatuck Savings Bank.

Naugatuck Savings Bank offers
qualified first time homebuyers discounted fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages. Income and sale price limits are 5% above the limits published by the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority. Mortgage application fees will be refunded to homeowners at the time of closing.

Naugatuck Savings Bank has been helping customers make their dream of home ownership a reality for over 130 years. Our Mortgage Professionals assist borrowers throughout the entire mortgage process, from application through closing. For more information, please contact Naugatuck Savings Bank at 203.729.4442 or toll free at 877.729.4442.

Naugatuck Savings Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nutmeg Financial, MHC, has been serving customers throughout Connecticut�s Greater Naugatuck Valley since 1870. Locally owned, we are committed to helping individual customers as well as the community at large. Naugatuck Savings Bank offers personal and business banking and financial services at its 12 branch locations.
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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Summer Camp Registration at The Salvation Army in Meriden

I like to announce our 2009 Summer Camp Registration at The Salvation Army in Meriden. We have a 6 day week camp we offered to children in the Community. The Camp is located in Ashford, CT. We have 17 slots total for children to attend. I think that with your help we will be able to sent 17 children again!!

Attached is a flyer with more information in English and Spanish. Please announce in your paper in whatever way you think is best! Thank you for your assistance!

SOUTHINGTON CLASS OF 1984 25TH REUNON 11/28/09 - AQUA TURF CLUB
Please contact Gina Ferracci Pellegrinoginapellegrino@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Citywide Petition to Save The Broad Street Fire Station
Written by Lisa DeDominicis, with input from Meriden Fire Chief James Trainor and staff

April's regular business agenda was postponed Thursday, March 19, so that the Action 13 Neighborhood Association could respond to public concerns over the proposed closing of the Broad Street Fire Station. More than forty residents showed up for the meeting, which was held at the Immanuel Lutheran Church on Hanover Street. Four TV stations - Fox 61, Channel 3, Channel 8, Channel 4, and the Record-Journal, covered the 7 pm meeting, which featured an overview of Meriden's five-engine fire services company by Meriden's Fire Chief, James Trainor, and a presentation by his two firefighters, Greg Polanski and Brendan Noonan.

In addition to handling fires and emergency medical services for the city, Meriden's firefighters handle a variety of incidents, with an average of 24 calls for service per day. When a call comes in for fire, hazardous material, a terrorist act, natural disaster, and/or medical emergency, the fire department rolls into action.

The closest available engine company and crew are first responders to the scene. If a second unit is on call or unavailable, the next nearest, available engine company will arrive, within minutes of the first group. The rest follow, depending on the circumstances.

Chief Trainor explained how Meriden's engine companies gear up in just under one minute, hop on the truck and are off to the scene, arriving in under five minutes. The response time for a fire is generally between three and four minutes. The average response time for Meriden is 4.3 minutes with current staffing and 5 engine companies in place.

Since the intensity of fire doubles every minute, the risk to life and property increases dramatically with each minute that passes. According to Chief Trainor, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) mandates that a 15 - 22 person-team response is the required minimum for a one-family house fire. More firefighters are required as the numbers (of families dwelling there or units) increase.

Of 8,369 total calls for service in 2008, 63% or 5,272 were medical emergency calls and 37% or 3,097 calls involved fire/rescue and emergency services. It's clear that this department is busy. In addition, fire and safety apparatus, meaning 5 engines and a ladder truck, went out 14,000 times in 2008, between the five engine companies.

If the Broad Street Fire Station is closed our fire department will lose 20% of its engine companies! The companies are located where they are for a good reason. It is illogical to consider that the business of fire and safety can go on as usual minus 20% of its assets. It isn't possible to imagine that this department can function as well, and deliver the same quality of service and safety, for even a short period of time without something serious happening.

This cut will affect the entire city, but for this discussion, each time a fire or medical emergency occurs in the Broad Street area, precious minutes will be lost waiting for the next available company to show up first.

Consider several things, if the doors are closed at 561 Broad Street. First, the geographical gap from Pomeroy Avenue to Pratt Street is too large without the Broad Street location. Second, this area is bisected by congested traffic flow and not enough road width for fire trucks to get around more quickly than they actually do on a day-to-day basis. This slows everything down. Again, adding more minutes.

The Broad Street corridor is a huge distance to traverse from the railroad tracks and east up to Broad Street south and north. And of course, there is the safety aspect of protecting such a densely populated area peppered with so many retirement and multi-family homes, schools and businesses. Again, minutes could mean lives. Victoria Towers' high-rise, for example, will have to wait for Pomeroy or Sherman Avenue engine companies to be their first responders, since Pratt is usually too busy.

Another serious cause for concern is Meriden's place as a leader in Connecticut, for simultaneous calls. These are calls for service that take place within a 15-minute window of each other. In 2008, thirty-seven (37)% of all department calls were simultaneous calls. When these calls occur, all fire department resources are deployed, and other towns, as a courtesy and safety precaution, will park their engines at our borders for coverage in the event of another incident. We can only rely on our good neighbors in Berlin and Wallingford for so much.

Can we really afford to add even one more minute to response time, when that one minute could be the one without oxygen for a family member or child? Not only will lives be endangered, our firefighters will experience greater risk themselves, and attempts to salvage property will be reduced by time and manpower cuts. And all this, at a time when our country's resources and people are strained to capacity. We can not afford to pretend that this will not be a problem.

The fire department can not manufacture time, eliminate distance, or circumvent traffic any better than they do now. Time efficiencies will not be created by adding personnel to other fire stations. Chief Trainor and his firefighters, Greg Polanski and Brendan Noonan, are seasoned professionals. They handled many good questions at the meeting, but they can not promise we will be protected at the same level as we are now, if the Broad Street Fire Station is closed.

The issue at hand is the increased amount of risk we are willing to expose ourselves and our families to. Can we really believe we will be anywhere near as safe, minus one of five fire engine companies?

Part of the presentation on March 19, was an excellent Power Point production assembled by firefighter Mike Clark, outlining the fire department's structure and the equipment it uses for various emergencies. This presentation, narrated by Greg Polanski at the March meeting, is available to other neighborhood associations who want to find out more about how these five engine companies manage Meriden's fire and emergency medical response services.

Given what we learned about how this department works to protect us, it is clear that we would be putting everyone's safety at risk by shuttering the Fire Station at 561 Broad Street. Meriden's fire department has not seen an increase in sworn fire personnel since 1982, yet the volume of calls per day has roughly tripled since then.

CALL for ACTION: The Council of Neighborhoods is circulating a petition to keep the firehouse intact. Please Sign the Petition and Speak to Your City Manager and City Councilors

Petitions, calling for keeping the Broad Street Fire Station open, will be circulated for signatures at each April neighborhood meeting. You'll find your area's meeting dates and times listed in the Brief section of the Record-Journal, on the Meriden Council of Neighborhoods' website and on the City of Meriden's website, or you may contact Dave Swedock, at (203) 235-8582 for meeting or petition information.

We urge you to contact your City Councilors and tell them you want to be safe. Tell them you want to keep the Broad Street Fire Station open for business. Please call, write, or email. We were very disappointed that not one city councilor was present at our March meeting, in spite of emails, TV coverage, a Record-Journal article, and open letters to the editor. This is your chance to let them know what you think.

You may also sign the petition at the Action 13 neighborhood meeting on Thursday, April 16 at 7 pm at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, on the corner of Hanover Street and Cook Avenue. Meetings are held the third Thursday of each month. All interested residents are invited to attend.

If you really want to keep fire and emergency medical services at current levels through the next fiscal year, please sign the Council of Neighborhood's petition to save the Broad Street Fire Station.

We need your signature and we need your voice.

With sincere thanks,

Lisa DeDominicis
President
Action 13 Neighborhood Association

Note: The Action 13 Neighborhood Association generally covers Cook Avenue up to Alcove Street, Elliot and Mosher Streets, Wood and Klock Streets, Carter and Carter Avenue Ext., Spring and Summer Streets, Laurel Heights area, Madison, Carter, Winter, Queen+ and King Streets, Bronson Avenue and Hanover up to Columbus Avenue.
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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Meriden Rotary Club Golf Tournament

The 12th Annual Corporate Classic Golf Tournament sponsored by the Meriden Rotary Foundation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Hunters� Golf Course in Meriden The premier event includes 18 holes of golf with lunch before a shotgun start, cocktail reception, dinner, gift pack, personalized program, auction, and prizes.

The Meriden Rotary Club has used the money raised from the tournaments, as well as its other events, to support initiatives in the Meriden community, including: Drug Awareness Resistance Education (DARE) for elementary schools, Noah�s Ark of Hope, Inc. for a barrier free playground, Project Dictionary for all 3rd graders in Meriden schools, Soap Box Derby, Beat the Street, Spirit of Giving, Rotary Career Center at the Meriden Public Library, Meriden Boys and Girls Club library, Citizenship awards for high school students, Rotary computer center at Girls Inc, and youth leadership.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfers are also encouraged to sign up. For information, visit the Meriden Rotary Club website at http://www.meridenrotary.org/ and contact Tournament Director Pam White by calling 203-238-7028 or email golf@meridenrotary.org.
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SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION
The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club is now taking Summer Camp registrations. Camp starts on June 29, 2009 and ends August 21, 2009. The camp runs eight one week sessions starting at 8 AM and ending at 5 PM each day. Call for information at 203-269-7525 or stop by Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club 72 Grand Street, Wallingford, CT and pick up applications. Limited Spaces.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN�S CLUB ANNOUNCES
2nd ANNUAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK EVENT � TRUCKS WANTED

The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club will sponsor its 2nd Annual Touch-a-Truck on May 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chevrolet Theatre, and trucks are needed. This is a hands-on activity for children and parents to experience their favorite big trucks up close by climbing into the driver�s seat, honking the horn, and pretending to steer.

WJWC invites local truck owners to provide trucks for display and touching. Truck owners must provide a current certificate of insurance, a truck attendant at all times, and a truck that may be touched and/or sat in. Truck owners may distribute family-friendly promotional materials with WJWC approval.
For more information, please call Kathryn Speeg, WJWC Touch-a-Truck Committee Co-Chairwoman, at 203-284-5826.

The Wallingford Junior Woman�s Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. http://www.cjw.org/. WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and is a non-profit organization that promotes educational, philanthropic, community service work and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction. WJWC projects include the Townwide Spelling Bee and Children�s Area at Celebrate Wallingford, and partnerships with the League of Women Voters of Wallingford & Cheshire, Wallingford Symphony Orchestra, Wallingford Emergency Shelter, and American Red Cross. 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.
For more information about WJWC, call Mimi LaFrance, Membership Chairwoman, at 284-8544.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Ben Franklin before School Program
Meriden Family Resource Center is now accepting registrations for the 2009-2010 Before School Program at Ben Franklin School. This program is open to children in Kindergarten through Grade 5. We offer a sliding scale and sibling discounts. We provide homework assistance, reading time and quiet games or activities from 7:00am until 8:30am. This program is offered to Ben Franklin students only. To register or for more information, please call 238-2316.

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FIRST ANNUAL DURHAM PET FAIR

The 1st Annual Durham Pet Fair will be held at The Durham Veterinary Hospital, located at 178 Parmalee Hill Road on Sunday, May 17th from 11:00am to 4:00pm (Rain Date May 24th). It is jointly organized by the Durham Veterinary Hospital and Help Willy's Friends.

This Durham Pet Fair will feature local merchants and adoptable pets from local shelters/ rescue organizations. There will be Live Music, a Wine Tasting and a Silent Auction. There will be food, beverages, and Free Kettle Korn. Children's activities will include a DJ, Face Painting, Touch-a-Truck, Fun House, a State Police K-9 Demonstration, and much more. For those attendees that bring their pets, The Durham Veterinary Hospital will provide microchipping at a nominal fee of $35.00. There will also be Free Nail Clipping, Free Pet Photos, Pet Reiki and a Pet Psychic!

10'x10' booth space is still available. A booth is $25 for shelters/rescue organizations and $50 for vendors. Visit http://www.durhampetfair.com/ for downloadable booth application forms or contact Mark at 203-988-1718 or willy@helpwillysfriends.org.

Help Willy's Friends is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to collecting food and supplies to distribute among local animal shelters/rescue organizations. This in turn assists shelter workers with providing proper, required, and additional care to animals in need. Ultimately, this results in additional time with hope of finding a new home for loving dogs and cats. For more information about Help Willy's Friends, visit http://www.helpwillysfriends.org/.

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__________________________________________________________________________________MONEY AND HELP FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AVAILABLE FROM THE COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND
The economy is faltering, and for small businesses or budding entrepreneurs, the story doesn�t seem to get any better: Loans are hard to get. Credit ratings have to be near-perfect for people to borrow. Even profitable businesses are having a tough time getting lending help that they need. In many cases, lines of credit, the lifeblood of businesses, are in jeopardy.

But there�s one non-profit organization with a 15-year track record of helping small businesses thrive and succeed even in tough times like these. The Community Economic Development Fund provides loans, education, free one-on-one business consulting and support to people and businesses that can�t get conventional financing. The money and training is there to help ordinary people. The approach � of lending the money, and giving support � works.

Ask Shirley Clements, of Meriden. In 2006, when she wanted to buy a health food store in Meriden, she couldn�t get a single bank to lend her the money. So she turned to the Community Economic Development Fund for financing. Not only did the fund give her the loan she needed, but Clements got the deal that CEDF offers to all clients: If she participated in the Fund�s small business training � hands on, practical evening workshops of a few hours, generally once a week for a few weeks � the interest rate on her loans would go down for the first three workshops she took. This is a long-standing strategy of the Community Economic Development Fund that reduces risk, helps avoid pitfalls and facilitates the successful growth of the business.

�Our loans tend to have a little higher interest rate than conventional financing,� said CEDF President and CEO Donna Wertenbach. �But clients can significantly reduce the rate, by more than 2 percent, by taking the training we offer � which in turn increases their business savvy.�To Clements, it was a good deal. The loan that the Community Economic Development Fund gave her enabled her to buy her business, Healthy Harvest, in September of 2006. The tax, finance, and accounting courses CEDF offered not only gave her low-cost accounting software, but added to her knowledge as an owner of a small business. CEDF provided a small business consultant to meet with once a month to see how she was doing, and gave marketing help when she needed it.

�They (CEDF) really care about clients,� Clements said in an interview March 20. �It�s not an approach of just, �give them a loan, and leave them alone.� They give you a loan, and help you grow.�In March, four Community Economic Development Fund staff members visited Clements� store to view her expansion plans. Clements is planning to branch out, offering healthy, organic salads and sandwiches for the lunchtime crowd. The construction is nearly complete, and she plans to start offering her takeout menu in April.

To Clements, the meeting was as much a celebration of what she has accomplished as much as a reminder of the kind of service that CEDF gives. �How many bankers come out and see how you are doing?� Clements said, and added, �They (CEDF) don�t leave you stranded.�
CEDF is planning to offer courses in locations around the state this spring, included below. And because the economy is so difficult, the organization wants to spread the word that ordinary people can get help � whether they are one of the many laid-off workers, forced by unemployment to start a new business; or an existing small business, which wants to expand.

�CEDF has a very practical approach. We give loans, but also support and training,� said Wertenbach. �Even good businesses who need help would have a tough time getting conventional loans even in the best of times. And these are not the best of times. But we�re here. People should know that.�CEDF Courses Offered Around the State"Tax Related Issues for Small Business"- Taught by certified CPAs, every business owner needs to know the tax issues associated with owning a small business in Connecticut. Learn about the different kinds of taxes affecting your business and about your filing responsibilities and deadlines, as well as about payroll taxes, sales tax and personal property tax. Gain the important information needed to make solid financial decisions throughout the year while knowing the tax consequences.

"Understanding Business Finances to Maximize Your Profit"- Learn how to keep the necessary records for your small business, understand financial statements, make income projections and different accounting methods that work best for your business. Make sure that you manage your finances, not the other way around."Introduction to QuickBooks"- The prerequisite to this class is the successful completion of "Understanding Business Finances." Participants will receive hands-on instruction in a small group setting. The class fee includes a copy of QuickBooks 2008 software. Please be aware that demand for this workshop is high and registrations are accepted on a first come, first serve basis.To register for classes please contact: Rina Bakalar, Institute Director at r.bakalar@cedf.com or for additional information on CEDF small business loans, call 203-235-2333 or visit the CEDF website http://www.cedf.com/ to download course information, registration forms or loan applications.NOTE TO EDITOR --- SHIRLEY CLEMENTS� TELEPHONE NUMBER, FOR VERIFICATION OF QUOTES, IS 203-235-2092.

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Become a Hospice Volunteer

Spring is a perfect time of year to consider new beginnings! Masonicare Home Health and Hospice would like to offer you a new beginning - one that will add quality and joy to others. Make a positive difference in someone's life by becoming a hospice volunteer. Hospice is about living every day to its fullest...it's all about quality of life.There are many volunteer opportunities available...companionship, respite for weary caregivers, animal assisted therapy, sharing your musical or artistic talents or helping in the office. You choose what's best for you!Training to become a hospice volunteer with Masonicare Home Health and Hospice will be starting soon. We offer a Medicare approved volunteer training as well as continuing education and support. Begin the journey to make a difference in the life of some else - call Jolan Szollosi, Volunteer Coordinator at (203) 679-5342.
We Are What We Eat

Cancer kills more children than any other disease�
Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are at epidemic levels�
One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer�
One in 7 women will have breast cancer�
Heart disease kills more women than cancer�
�For the first time in history, we have a generation of children headed for a shorter life expectancy than their parents!� Dr. David Katz, Yale Research

Find out why this is happening and what we can do to reverse and prevent it!

The solution really is simple. Will an apple a day really keep the doctor away? Do you eat 9 � 13 servings of fruits and vegetables daily? (R U kidding?) What are whole food supplements and why they are so important? Healthy bodies are critical to healthy lives. How healthy are you?

Bring your questions. Leave with answers.

May 17th 2:00 pm Jewish Synagogue in Wallingford

Nancy Freyberg�s office in Harvest Park Wellness Center 101 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford
For more information call: 203-284-8299 lavendermoon47@yahoo.com
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Durham Pet Fair

Everyone is invited to the first annual Durham Pet Fair. The event is jointly organized by Durham Veterinary Hospital and Help Willy�s Friends. It will be held at the hospital, 178 Parmalee Hill Road, on Sunday May 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This family oriented event will feature local merchants, adoptable pets, live music, wine tasting and a silent auction. There will be food and free kettle corn. Children�s activities will include a DJ, face painting, touch a truck event, fun house, state police K-9 demo, a pet agility course and more. For those attendees who bring their pets, the Durham Veterinary Hospital will provide micro-chipping at a nominal fee ($35), free nail clipping, free pet photos, pet Reiki and a pet psychic! Please visit http://www.durhampetfair.com/ or http://www.helpwillysfriends.org/ for more information. Hope to see you there.
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IF YOU ARE� A Caregiver to an Elderly Relative or Friend.
Call us to find out how our volunteers can help by providing FREE transportation to out-of-town medical appointments, grocery shopping and visiting.

IF YOU ARE � Over The Age of 65 and Living In Cromwell, Middletown, Portland, East Hampton, East Haddam, Haddam, Durham Or Middlefield.
Let our volunteers help by providing FREE transportation to out-of-town medical appointments, grocery shopping and visiting.

IF YOU ARE � A veteran over the age of 60 and need to get to the VA Hospital
Let our volunteers help by providing FREE rides

IF YOU ARE � Someone Who Would Like To Help an Elderly Person or Veteran Living In Your Community and Has One Hour A Week To Spare.
Become a St. Luke�s volunteer

To quote Roger, a St. Luke�s volunteer, �My philosophy is that at the end of the day, your little corner of the world should be a better place for your being in it�

To find out more about our services or to become a volunteer
Call 347-5661
St. Luke�s Eldercare Solutions of Central Connecticut,
100 Riverview Center, Suite 202, Middletown, CT 06457
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Wallingford Garden Club

The Wallingford Garden Club will have their annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 9, from 9A.M. until 12 noon at the Railroad Station Green at the intersection of Rt. 5, Hall Ave, & Quinnipiac St. The annual plant sale will have perenials from members gardens, annuals, a plant clinic, garden treasures, a children's table, local crafters and new this year, gift baskets made by the club members in time for Mother's Day. The Wallingford Garden Club is a member of The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut. _

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
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Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr.
Memorial Tennis Tournament

The biggest and premier community tennis tournament in New England is right here in Wallingford, CT! The 5th annual Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament is scheduled for June 13th � 21st.

The venue will again be the beautiful Hunt Tennis Center located on the Choate-Rosemary Hall Campus in Wallingford. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit Wallingford YMCA youth programs and the Winton S. Filipek Sr. scholarship fund.

All players receive a tournament t-shirt, players handbook, players gift bag, ticket to �Breakfast at Wimbledon� and tennis balls & water for every match. Prizes are awarded to 1st & 2nd place in every division.

The 9-day event in 2009 will feature: 17 divisions for all levels, a Free Kids & HS Clinic & Fun Day, Sunday June 14th (at capacity in 2008), opening ceremony with Mayors Wallingford/Meriden and Town Managers Southington/Cheshire and several other special events.

In 2008, the event drew 481 entries in 17 divisions.

THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT!

Please direct any questions to Wint Filipek Jr. wrfilipek@hotmail.com 860-621-5655 or the Wallingford Family YMCA at 203-269-4497.

Apply NOW on line @: www.ymcafilipektennis.com
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The Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr.
Memorial Tennis Tournament

THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT!

The premier community tennis tournament in New England is right here in central CT! The 5th annual Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament is scheduled for June 13th � 21st. In 2008, the event drew 481 entries in 17 divisions.

The 9-day event will feature: 17 divisions for all levels, a Free Kids & HS Clinic & Fun Day, opening ceremony with Mayors Wallingford/Meriden/Cheshire and Town Manager Southington and several special events.

SPECIAL EVENTS:
Friday, June 12th: Sponsor Appreciation Night
Saturday, June 13th: Precision Chiropractic & Wellness Center Day
Sunday, June 14th, Opening ceremony, Mayors/Town Managers Day
Sunday, June 14th: Free Clinic & Fun Day For Kids & HS Players
Monday, June 15th: Pilot Pen Tennis Tournament Night
Sunday, June 21st: Breakfast at Wimbledon by Neil�s Bakery

Dear Meriden Chamber of Commerce Members To Sponsor/Support Our Tournament (See Reverse)
To Play In Our Tournament: Apply on line @ http://www.ymcafilipektennis.com/ To Join Our Free Clinic & Fun Day for Kids & HS Players: Register @: http://www.mftennisacademy.com/ Questions: wrfilipek@hotmail.com, 860-621-5655 Thank you, The Filipek Family/Wallingford YMCA Your company name/logo will appear on the following:

Grand Slam Sponsor - $2,500.00 Donation
Our HOME PAGE @: http://www.ymcafilipektennis.com/
In a full 2-Page AD in our Patron Book/Players Handbook (400-500)
A bold 4� X 6� AD on the back of our official tournament t-shirts (400-500)
A promotional booth/display can be set up by you for all 9 days of our tournament
Your company banner can be displayed all 9 days of our tournament
Recognition at the YMCA Annual Meeting & YMCA Annual Report
Gold Medal Sponsor - $1,000 Donation
On the top of our Sponsor Page Link @: http://www.ymcafilipektennis.com/
In a full page AD in our Patron Book/Players Handbook (400-500)
A bold 3� X 5� AD on the back of our official tournament t-shirts (400-500)
Your company banner can be displayed all 9 days of our tournament
Recognition at the YMCA Annual Meeting & YMCA Annual Report
Hall of Fame Sponsor - $500 Donation
Our Sponsor Page Link @: http://www.ymca-filipektennis.com/
A half page Ad in our Patron Book/Players Handbook (400-500)
A bold 2� X 3� AD on the sleeve of our official tournament t-shirt (400-500)
Recognition in the YMCA Annual Report
Service Ace Sponsor - $250 Donation
Our Sponsor Page Link @: http://www.ymca-filipektennis.com/
A � page Ad in our Patron Book/Players Handbook (400-500)
A bold AD on the sleeve of our official tournament t-shirt (400-500)
Recognition in the YMCA Annual Report
Rally Sponsor - $100 Donation
Our Sponsor Page Link @: http://www.ymca-filipektennis.com/
A 1/8 page Ad in our Patron Book/Players Handbook (400-500)
(Send camera ready artwork to YMCA NLT May 15th)

$2,500 $1,000 $500 $250 $100

Company/Business Name: _______________________________________________________________
Address/City: _________________________________________________________________________
Contact Person: _______________________________________________________________________

Checks To: Wallingford Family YMCA/Filipek Tennis. 81 S. Elm St. Wallingford, CT 06492

Credit Cards Accepted: Please call 203-269-4497, Ext. 15

Raffle/Silent Auction

Our Company _________________________________________ Will Donate The Following Items:

Item: # of Items: Value:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Donated Items Amount To: $ _________Include Our Company As A __________________ Sponsor

Raffle Items/Gift Certificates/Merchandise/Services
Send To: Wint Filipek Jr., 230 Copper Ridge Rd., Southington, CT 06489
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Fredrick Edward Wallace Search

I'm looking for the parents or siblings of Frederick Edward Wallace, his obit says he
was born in Wallingford, CT in 1852, but his headstone says he was born November 11, 1850.
Not sure when he came here to Missouri, but he married Alice Earl in 1881 in Lexington, Missouri.
He died August 5, 1905 in Lexington, Missouri.

If anyone has any information that could help me, please contact Cathy Wallace, my email, wallywaldo60@embarqmail.com, phone, 660.232.3798.
Thank you.

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/

CHORALE CONNECTICUT SPRING CONCERT

On Saturday, May 9th, Chorale Connecticut, under the direction of Dorothy Barnhart, will present its spring concert entitled �Of Thee We Sing.� The concert, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 159 East Main Street, Meriden, embraces a patriotic theme including a well-known medley of George M. Cohen pieces, the moving �Battle Hymn of the Republic� and �In Flanders Field.� For this stirring performance, Chorale Connecticut is proud to share the stage with the Southington High School Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Jeff Shaw. A reception at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center will follow the concert.

Ticket prices are $18 in advance and $20 at the door. Seniors� tickets (65) are $15 and children 12 and under will be admitted free with a donation of a canned good for the town food pantry. Tickets may be purchased from Chorale members or from the following outlets: JC Music, 519 West Main Street, Meriden; Valencia Liquor Shop, Ames Plaza, Meriden; Gallagher Travel, 390 Center Street, Wallingford; Just For You Country Gifts, Rte. 322, Southington and the Veteran�s Service Center, 45 So. Main Street, #213, Wallingford. For more information, visit the Chorale website at http://www.choralect.org/ or call (203)237-5684.
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The Ladies of St. Anne Society is sponsoring a Cabaret Night
On Friday, May 29th at 7:00PM at St. Laurent Church Hall, 121 Camp Street, Meriden. Entertainment will be provided by Nick Grasso. Hot and cold hors d'oeuvres will be provided. Raffle tickets will be sold and door prizes will be awarded! Ticket price is $10. First call your friends to make up a table, then call the St. Laurent parish office at 634-1583 or Eleonore at 238-3124 to reserve your tickets for a fun night of music!

______________________________________________________________________________________ Calendar of Events--Jitters Coffeehouse
1273 Queen Street Southington, CT 06489 (860) 747-1100 �Live� Original Music Doors open at 8 PM on Friday & Saturday NightsMay 1--Fri--John Shannon--Folk musicMay 2--Sat--Frances Kramer--Folk musicMay 7--Thu--7pm Bob Bloom--Drum Ride--ALL welcome 7pm-9pm $8 Adults and $5 for children under 10 years old-Everyone playsMay 8--Fri-- Rupert Wates--Acoustic Pop & Jazz musicMay 9--Sat--Mark Stepakoff--Blues & Folk musicMay 15--Fri--Dave Murphy--Americana Folk music--with Shotgun comedy show May 16--Sat--Bob Alonge--Folk Rock music
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Remember Mother's Day May 10th with a gift certificate to the Meriden YMCA

Don't forget the most important woman in your life - MOM! Why not treat her to a gift certificate to the Meriden YMCA? She can treat herself to a spa day - work out or go for a swim, have a massage, and visit the sauna. Gift certificates are available for membership, classes, or massage therapy.

Give mom the best gift ever this Mother's Day, a gift certificate for a Massage or Reflexology session with one of our licensed massage therapists. The Y now offers 30 Minute Chair Massage, 60 Minute Table Massage, and Reflexology. Massages are by appointment and are only $35 for a half hour or $60 per hour for members, and $45 per half hour and $80 per hour for nonmembers. Stop by our Fitness Center and ask for a tour of our newly remodeled Massage Room.For more information on any of these programs, please contact the Meriden YMCA at 203-235-6386 or by email at joangoodman@meridenymca.org

The Meriden YMCA is located at 110 West Main Street in Meriden. Since 1866 the Meriden YMCA has helped its members build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
Happy Spring and Happy Mother's Day to all of the moms out there from the Meriden YMCA!

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To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com

Support Sustinet

Friday, April 17th, I spent time at the Mission of Mercy dental clinic in New Haven. It was a jarring experience. The line was so long that I never actually did see the end of it. There was a woman standing in line for 3 hours on a broken ankle. There was an elderly woman who stood in line for hours while two other women helped to support her. There were parents with infants and young children. Some of the people were employed, some were unemployed, and others were retired. It was a microcosm of the health care crisis. What a terrible thing to see in one of the richest countries in the world; in one of the wealthiest states in the country: people standing for hours, some even throughout the night, for the chance to get free dental care.

This is not the answer to the health care crisis. Charity is not a health care system. Thankfully, there is something the residents of Connecticut can do to fix our broken system. The Connecticut Legislature has the opportunity to pass HB6600, the Sustinet Bill, to provide Connecticut residents with the option of an affordable public health insurance plan. Businesses, non-profit agencies and municipalities as well as individuals would be eligible. Now is the time for action; to ensure that people of our state get the medical and dental care they need. Take the time to contact your state representatives and state senators and tell them to support the Sustinet Bill. It�s smart. It�s right. It�s time.
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The Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department is having a Mother's Day Flower/Plant sale on:

Friday May 8 from 5:00PM-8:00PM
Saturday May 9 from 8:00AM-6:00PM
Sunday May 10 from 8:00AM-12:00PM
This event will take place at the Yalesville Fire Station at 143 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville.

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Mark T. Sheehan High School
Wallingford, Connecticut

Sheehan Announces New Members to National Honor Society

The following students were inducted into the Mark T. Sheehan High School Chapter of the National Honor Society: Brian Bates, Robert Belcourt, Leann Bickford, Alexina DelVecchio, Christopher Earley, Mollie Hamel, Melanie Hulett, Elizabeth Kadow, Michael Kadow, Emily McCarthy, Farah Salam, Tori Sheldon, Jessie Simpson, Leanna Verch, Nicole Vitello and Christina Webster. These students earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4 through the end of the first semester of their junior or senior year in order to be academically eligible for membership. In addition to scholarship, their selection was based on outstanding character, leadership, and service. The Sheehan faculty and administration are very proud of these students� accomplishments.

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The Animal Haven

Open House Saturday, May 30, 2009
The Animal Haven will have an Open House on Saturday, May 30, 2009 from 12 Noon to 4 PM. Stop by to take a tour of the kennel and visit with the many cats and dogs that are available for adoption. Light refreshments will be served and there will be a Penny Auction. THE ANIMAL HAVEN HAS BEEN HELPING HOMELESS CATS AND DOGS IN THE GREATER NEW HAVEN AREA SINCE 1948.

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MIDDLEBURY, Conn. � Moms receive a free all-day ride wristband and dinner on Mother�s Day, Sunday, May 10, at Quassy Amusement Park, Route 64 here.

To receive the voucher for the free wristband and dinner, moms must be accompanied by a child. Only mother�s can redeem the voucher. The park is open noon to 6 p.m. Admission is free with parking $5. There is a fee for rides, attractions and food.

Quassy Amusement Park is in its 101st year of operation and features more than two-dozen rides and attractions. The park is also home to �Saturation Station,� the state-of-the-art interactive family water play area.

Birthday parties, company outings, family reunions, church functions, weddings and stags are also being scheduled in the park�s private pavilion areas by calling 203-758-2913 extensions 107 or 108.
For more information about Quassy Amusement Park visit http://www.quassy.com/.

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/

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Helping Hands Thrift Store Helping To Save You Money!

22 No. Turnpike Rd. in Wallingford

Furn., Appliances in good to new condition all priced UNDER $100.00! Save even more by stopping by often as we have unadvertised sales happening in May!
Need summer clothes? Many new and famous name brands available at lowest prices around.
We have 2 floors of electronics,housewares,books,videos,dvds,cds,toys,jewelry,shoes, linens,baby furn. and items,knick knacks and so much more to offer at tag sale prices to help those that can not afford items needed elsewhere.

Being proud supporters of the Chrysalis Organization for Women and Children whom are victims of Domestic Violence your purchases and donations allow us to offer assistance to them and to people in the community needing help and who are referred by an organization with a voucher get items they may need.

We offer every Wed. BAG DAY! Fill a bag we provide with certain clothing items for only $2.00 a bag with a limit of 4 bags per customer this day only.

Watch for Senior Discount Day starting in JUNE! Must be 55 years or more to receive 20% off total purchase allowed once on specified day. Sign up is necessary to receive this discount. Furniture and electronics are EXCLUDED from this discount.

The store is in need of a new cash register if anyone has one they would like to donate or are selling VERY reasonable please contact us. Must be in good working condition.
Please remember us when your child outgrows their outside riding toys, or patio furn. that you may be replacing with new ones that are still in good condition and would like to donate. Wagons,bikes, ride on outside toys are in GREAT need! Cable ready t.v.s, dvd players,portable radios,vhs players,working computers are other items in great need.
New and different items are placed out for sale everyday so stop by often!
Sale going on till May 9th- all framed pictures BUY 1 get 1 half price and all glassware BUY 1 get 1 half price.

Other sales will be posted in the store during the month of May.
We also have misc. FREE furn. items that we will give to anyone that may want them just for the asking so come on in and ask about it. These items are donated items that we may have a surplus of that are fine for cottages,odd and end pieces or may need refinishing etc.

We wish to thank all that shop and donate to the store helping us help the Chrysalis and our community.

Sorry we are no longer accepting winter items as we have limited storage space.

Check out our formal wear section of gowns, dresses and even Wedding gowns for sale!
Need an accordion in excellent condition with the case, we have it! Need a small stand up organ, we have that too!

We are NOT a consignment shop and are unable to give out tax donation slips with our current store status but donating to help others is a very rewarding feeling when you no longer need items which could help someone else- Thank You!

Please be considerate when donating furn., electronics or appliances in regards to the condition of these items. They can not have stains, rips, broken as this is a very expensive expense the store must pay to dispose of them which would have to be passed on by raising our prices which we do not want to do. Please if it is not something you would not purchase for yourself because of its condition don't offer it to someone who is having a hard time trying to replace worn out or broken items already..

To read The People�s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct�s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com