February 2007 Wallingford and Meriden Town News and Events
February 2007 Meriden and Wallingford Town News and Events sponsored by:
Mayor’s Corner - Meriden
Dear Friends,
We finally had our first snowflake, but it didn’t last long. I am not complaining though. I would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day, especially my beautiful wife and daughter, Amy and Bria. Valentine’s Day is not just about flowers and fancy candies; it is about taking the time to thank those special people in our lives. Those individuals who bring a smile to our face when we are having a tough day. The people we know we can always count on.
On February 8th, Meriden and Wallingford will once again compete in Literacy Volunteers’ Scrabble Tournament. So get a team together and help raise funds for this worthy cause. Preparations are also underway for Meriden and Wallingford’s Annual Relay for Life fundraiser. The kickoff celebration will take place on January 25th at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn. This is a great opportunity for Meriden and Wallingford residents to work together to fight cancer. This has been a special event in large part due to the great volunteers and generosity of so many citizens. We will also celebrate President’s Day as we honor those who led our great nation.
Hopefully the groundhog will soon deliver a positive message that we are having a short winter season. I still have my hat and gloves ready and the sled is in the garage. Thanks for all your support.
Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni
A New Year Message from Meriden’s Mayor Mark!
Happy New Year! Let me start by thanking our citizens and city staff for all their support.
As we begin 2007, I would like to reflect on some of our accomplishments in 2006. New businesses like Webster Insurance, Aplicare, CDG Call Center, J&J Tristate, and National Cabinetry brought hundreds of jobs to our city and new revenue for our grand list. We have also seen significant retail growth, many new quality single family homes, and the addition of Newbury Village, a high end 180 unit apartment complex. Important infrastructure improvements like the Coe Avenue and Bradley Avenue bridges, the Hanover Dam, and the capping of the landfill were successfully completed. In addition to the new developments, we improved our bond rating and received an award for our annual audit. This is a credit to our improved financial standing and honest budgeting and accounting procedures. The Boys & Girls Club and Girls Inc. both added new pavilions to improve their facilities and increase their offerings for our children. Last, but certainly not least, we celebrated our 200th birthday with pride and honor.
As we look ahead, I am excited with our ever increasing development opportunities. Castleview Plaza on West Main Street and Centennial Avenue will add a bank, EyeCenter, and a new Napoli’s Restaurant to current tenants Dunkin Donuts and Aarons. Silver Commons on Broad Street will open with a Starbucks, Coldstone Creamery, and Japanese restaurant.
The new Burger King is open and soon Walgreens will join the new plaza on East Main Street and Paddock Avenue. Further up the road, Lowe’s will anchor a new plaza at the former Ames site. This plaza has been vacant for over 10 years and soon will receive a much needed face lift. When these plazas are renovated their value increases significantly, thus increasing revenue for the city. The City also benefits from the aesthetic improvements to the area.
Meriden will welcome our first 55 and over housing development on Baldwin Avenue and new single family homes will continue to balance our housing stock. In the next couple months, the HUB demolition will highlight our efforts to clean up downtown. Café Dolce, Middlesex, state agencies, and new businesses continue to join long standing businesses like Fischer’s and Butler Paint in downtown Meriden.
As we continue our flood control efforts, we will put the finishing touches on Phase 1 of our linear trail and begin preparations for Phase 2. The trail is magnificent and a great asset to our city. The views along the Quinnipiac River make Meriden’s linear trail second to none.
One of the most exciting additions coming to our city in 2007 is a privately funded, handicap accessible playscape for Hubbard Park. The playscape committee headed by Dawn Nierenburg-Reynolds and the Bourdon family has done a remarkable job raising funds and planning for this playscape. This will give our citizens one more reason to visit the state’s most beautiful park, Hubbard Park. I look forward to seeing you at city events throughout the year and I wish you a safe and prosperous New Year.
I am excited about our future and inspired by the commitment of our citizens.
Thanks for all your support,
Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni
Wallingford Senior Center FEBRUARY Edition
HOW DO I GET THERE? TRANSPORTATION FAIR FOR DRIVERS AND NON-DRIVERS
Dear Friends,
We finally had our first snowflake, but it didn’t last long. I am not complaining though. I would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day, especially my beautiful wife and daughter, Amy and Bria. Valentine’s Day is not just about flowers and fancy candies; it is about taking the time to thank those special people in our lives. Those individuals who bring a smile to our face when we are having a tough day. The people we know we can always count on.
On February 8th, Meriden and Wallingford will once again compete in Literacy Volunteers’ Scrabble Tournament. So get a team together and help raise funds for this worthy cause. Preparations are also underway for Meriden and Wallingford’s Annual Relay for Life fundraiser. The kickoff celebration will take place on January 25th at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn. This is a great opportunity for Meriden and Wallingford residents to work together to fight cancer. This has been a special event in large part due to the great volunteers and generosity of so many citizens. We will also celebrate President’s Day as we honor those who led our great nation.
Hopefully the groundhog will soon deliver a positive message that we are having a short winter season. I still have my hat and gloves ready and the sled is in the garage. Thanks for all your support.
Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni
A New Year Message from Meriden’s Mayor Mark!
Happy New Year! Let me start by thanking our citizens and city staff for all their support.
As we begin 2007, I would like to reflect on some of our accomplishments in 2006. New businesses like Webster Insurance, Aplicare, CDG Call Center, J&J Tristate, and National Cabinetry brought hundreds of jobs to our city and new revenue for our grand list. We have also seen significant retail growth, many new quality single family homes, and the addition of Newbury Village, a high end 180 unit apartment complex. Important infrastructure improvements like the Coe Avenue and Bradley Avenue bridges, the Hanover Dam, and the capping of the landfill were successfully completed. In addition to the new developments, we improved our bond rating and received an award for our annual audit. This is a credit to our improved financial standing and honest budgeting and accounting procedures. The Boys & Girls Club and Girls Inc. both added new pavilions to improve their facilities and increase their offerings for our children. Last, but certainly not least, we celebrated our 200th birthday with pride and honor.
As we look ahead, I am excited with our ever increasing development opportunities. Castleview Plaza on West Main Street and Centennial Avenue will add a bank, EyeCenter, and a new Napoli’s Restaurant to current tenants Dunkin Donuts and Aarons. Silver Commons on Broad Street will open with a Starbucks, Coldstone Creamery, and Japanese restaurant.
The new Burger King is open and soon Walgreens will join the new plaza on East Main Street and Paddock Avenue. Further up the road, Lowe’s will anchor a new plaza at the former Ames site. This plaza has been vacant for over 10 years and soon will receive a much needed face lift. When these plazas are renovated their value increases significantly, thus increasing revenue for the city. The City also benefits from the aesthetic improvements to the area.
Meriden will welcome our first 55 and over housing development on Baldwin Avenue and new single family homes will continue to balance our housing stock. In the next couple months, the HUB demolition will highlight our efforts to clean up downtown. Café Dolce, Middlesex, state agencies, and new businesses continue to join long standing businesses like Fischer’s and Butler Paint in downtown Meriden.
As we continue our flood control efforts, we will put the finishing touches on Phase 1 of our linear trail and begin preparations for Phase 2. The trail is magnificent and a great asset to our city. The views along the Quinnipiac River make Meriden’s linear trail second to none.
One of the most exciting additions coming to our city in 2007 is a privately funded, handicap accessible playscape for Hubbard Park. The playscape committee headed by Dawn Nierenburg-Reynolds and the Bourdon family has done a remarkable job raising funds and planning for this playscape. This will give our citizens one more reason to visit the state’s most beautiful park, Hubbard Park. I look forward to seeing you at city events throughout the year and I wish you a safe and prosperous New Year.
I am excited about our future and inspired by the commitment of our citizens.
Thanks for all your support,
Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni
Wallingford Senior Center FEBRUARY Edition
HOW DO I GET THERE? TRANSPORTATION FAIR FOR DRIVERS AND NON-DRIVERS
Friday, February 23, 10:15 a.m.
Your doctor’s appointment is next Thursday at 1:00 p.m. How will you get to the doctor’s office? If you don’t drive, do you know what your transportation options are? If you do drive, do you know what resources are available to help ensure your safe trip behind the wheel? Join us on Friday, February 23, at 10:15 a.m. to get information to answer all your transportation questions. Presenters and exhibitors include: AAA, AARP, American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, Greater New Haven Transit District, Wallingford Police Department, and the Wallingford Senior Center. Free handouts and refreshments. This program is open to the public. Please call 265-7753 to register.
WINTER BAKE SALE
Your doctor’s appointment is next Thursday at 1:00 p.m. How will you get to the doctor’s office? If you don’t drive, do you know what your transportation options are? If you do drive, do you know what resources are available to help ensure your safe trip behind the wheel? Join us on Friday, February 23, at 10:15 a.m. to get information to answer all your transportation questions. Presenters and exhibitors include: AAA, AARP, American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, Greater New Haven Transit District, Wallingford Police Department, and the Wallingford Senior Center. Free handouts and refreshments. This program is open to the public. Please call 265-7753 to register.
WINTER BAKE SALE
on Tuesday, February 20
We are planning a delicious event to raise funds to help our “adopted” classrooms at Moses Y. Beach School (see separate article on our partnership with MYB on page 5). We need bakers and buyers! Please call 265-7753 to sign up to bake for this event. The goodies will be on sale on February 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., or until supplies run out! Thanks in advance for supporting this special project.
READERS’ THEATRE GROUP
A Readers’ Theatre Group (a popular art form for those who enjoy performing in a play by sitting and reading a part) is being organized for any interested members! No experience necessary! Please sign up during February and we’ll convene the group in March.
DANCE PARTY with VINNIE CARR
Wednesday, February 28, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
It’s a Sweethearts Dance! Join us for an afternoon of dancing, music and fun. Invite your friends!
SENIOR CENTER PARTNERS WITH LOCAL SCHOOL
The Wallingford Senior Center has been designated the official community partner of Moses Y. Beach School. Our relationship with the school began with our joint pen pal program in 1999. We are now planning ways to help enrich the students’ educational experiences. One aspect of our partnership will involve assisting the teachers with classroom materials such as special books and arts and crafts supplies. (Our February Bake Sale will raise funds for this effort.) Our pen pal program (see separate article below) is another important part of our relationship. Also, we will be planning special events at the Senior Center to which our MYB students will be invited. Finally, the teachers have expressed a need for classroom volunteers. Adults are needed to work one-on-one with students; to participate in reading buddies programs; to share their musical talents; or to assist with special projects in the classroom. Obviously this partnership needs lots of participation by senior center members. The time commitment is small but the rewards will be huge!
Please sign up if you want to be part of this exciting new outreach program.
LITERARY COMMITTEE UPDATE
The Literary Committee has begun work on the spring issue of Mirrors of Life, our Senior Center literary magazine. Anyone who wishes to submit an original poem, essay or story is asked to bring it to the reception desk. Please be sure you put your name on everything you submit. Also, new committee members are always welcome. We need your ideas and hope you will join us. Sign up and we will contact you regarding meeting dates and times.
SOCIAL SERVICES
ELDER LAW ATTORNEY APPOINTMENTS
Available Wednesday, February 7
Appointments are available for the afternoon of Wednesday, February 7 to get free legal advice from Attorney Daniel Tully. Please call 265-7753 today to reserve your appointment.
HOMEOWNER TAX RELIEF PROGRAM
February 1 through May 15, 2007
Who should apply? People sixty-five years of age, or Totally Disabled as of December 31 preceding the application period. Applicants must own and reside, or hold Life-Use of property. Annual income (including Social Security) cannot exceed $28,800 in 2006 for a single individual or $35,300 in 2006 for married couples. Please call the Assessor’s office at 294-2001 for more information.
Property Tax Deferral for the Elderly
February 1 through May 15, 2007
How does Property Tax Deferral Work? The tax on your property is postponed, to be collected at a future date.
Who qualifies for Property Tax Deferral? Any homeowner who is presently receiving benefits under the Elderly Homeowners Program qualifies for tax deferral. Please apply at the Assessor’s Office, or call 294-2001 for more information.
HAVE YOU APPLIED YET FOR THE CT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM?
The Senior Center takes applications for energy assistance for Wallingford residents, age 60 and over. Income limits are $27,867.32 for a single person and $36,441.88 for two people. There are asset limits. Applications are by appointment only. To find out more information or to schedule an appointment, call 265-7753.
ENERGY ASSISTANCE NEWS FLASH !
March 15, 2007 is the deadline for fuel authorizations or deliveries from Basic Benefits, Crisis Assistance or Safety Net Assistance. To request a fuel delivery, follow directions on the guideline notice you received when you made your application. Phone 235-0278 or 237-6957 Ext. 21 or 22 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP - EASY TO USE TALKING BOOK MACHINES
Announcing more portable and “user friendly” talking book machines ready to be delivered to you free of charge through the Connecticut State Library for the Blind. This is a terrific service. See a demonstration and find out how easy it is hear books on tape! All are invited—Friday, February 16 at 10:15 a.m. Please call 265-7753 to register.
ATTENTION ENERGY ASSISTANCE ELECTRIC HEAT CUSTOMERS EXCITING NEWS FROM WALLINGFORD ELECTRIC
The Wallingford Electric Division is evaluating a new method of the way it recognizes Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) awards. In the past, if you received an award, the Division would credit your account upon the actual receipt of the check from the State for the CEAP award. As you may know, the award checks do not come in until the end of the winter or early spring. This winter, the Division will recognize your CEAP award as a credit to your account at the time the Division receives notice of the award. Larry Elliott of New Opportunities has agreed to have his staff provide the Division with a monthly report of awards. In addition, the Division can still receive award letters directly from you, the customer, as the Division has in the past. Upon receipt of the monthly reports or your individual award letter, the Division will post a credit adjustment to your account in the amount of the award. This credit will serve to offset any existing open items on your account or to offset upcoming bills. The quickest way to get the award posted to your account is for you to forward a copy of your award letter to the Wallingford Electric Division customer service staff at 100 John Street. If you have any questions, please contact Electric Division Customer Service at 294–2020.
DRIVING REWARD
Remember when you were 16 and newly licensed? Was there anything more thrilling than the grown up feeling of driving? Driving, no doubt, has lost some of that thrill factor over time, but there are still good feelings to be had. Being a volunteer driver with Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers (even if you only do it once or twice a month) will give you the unmistakable satisfaction of really helping a neighbor. Our drivers give rides to medical appointments and take people grocery shopping or just out for a change of scenery. Gas mileage reimbursement is available to our volunteers. Please call Social Worker Marie Cunha at 265-7753 for details.
AARP SAFE DRIVER CLASS
February 5 & 7 or March 5 & 7
The AARP Driver Safety Course will be offered in February and in March, on Monday and Wednesday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The fee for the eight-hour classroom course is $10.00 per person which must be paid at the time of registration.
Check payable to “AARP.” Cash cannot be accepted.
CITY OF MERIDEN FEBRUARY EVENTS
VALENTINE’S DAY CARD CONTEST
Grades K-5 students are invited to enter the 2007 Valentine’s Day Card Contest. Original, hand-produced cards can be brought or mailed to the Parks & Recreation office between February 1st – 12th. Winners will receive a special prize package. All entries must include the child’s name, phone number, school, & grade.
WINTER VACATION WEEK CAMP
The Recreation Division’s “Winter Vacation Week Camp” will meet from 9:15AM-3:00PM at Hanover School from February 20th-23rd. It features games, puzzles, educational sessions, arts & crafts, and videos in addition to hiking, swimming, movies, & arcade field trips. Boys & girls currently in grades K-6 are eligible to attend. Beginning February 5th, interested participants can register at the Parks & Recreation office. The cost is $40.00 for the week. Please register soon, as there are only 40 openings available for the program.
MASA REGISTRATION
Rules & roster forms for the 2007 Meriden Amateur Softball Association season will be available at the Parks & Recreation office beginning Wednesday, February 14th. The league registration meeting will be held Monday, March 5th.
2006-2007 CO-ED ADULT VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM
Organized recreational volleyball games for adults ages 18 & older take place every Tuesday night at Holy Angels Center in South Meriden from 6:00-9:00PM. The program runs through March 27th. A one-time $25.00 registration fee can be paid onsite any night the program is in session.
INDOOR PUBLIC SWIM PROGRAM
The 2006-2007 Indoor Public Swim Program takes place at the Maloney HS pool on the following dates & times: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6:30-7:45PM and Saturdays & Sundays from 12:00-3:45PM.
All interested participants must possess a valid 2007 pool pass. Available for purchase at the Parks & Recreation office, passes cost $5.00 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 17 & under. Potential recipients must come to the office in-person and bring proof of Meriden residency to receive a pass.
20TH ANNUAL “DAFFODILS ON PARADE”
The 20th Annual “Daffodils on Parade” will take place on Saturday, April 28th. Groups, clubs, schools, businesses, or individuals wishing to march in Meriden’s largest parade are asked to call the Recreation Division office at 630-4259 for an entry form. Creative participation is always welcome!
MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 60 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
City Clerk Irene Masse will speak at the Senior Center before lunch on Wednesday, February 14 at 11:15 AM about the new passport requirements for U.S. travelers. Beginning January 23, all U.S. citizens traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport. This will also apply to land and sea travel as early as January 1, 2008. Please note that the passport requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or directly from a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico. The City Clerk will explain the new regulations and how to apply for a passport for those interested. Also that day, a special Valentine’s Day lunch of oven roasted chicken with gravy, roasted potatoes, and green and wax beans with cherry pie for dessert will be served. For a lunch reservation call 235-8052. Entertainment will be provided by singer George Gandy.
A Valentine Dinner Dance will be held at the Senior Center on Thursday, February 15 with music provided by Vinnie Carr. Dinner of top round of beef, baked potato, green beans almondine, dessert and coffee will be served from 5:00 to 6:00 with dancing from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Tickets are available now for
Meriden residents at a cost $6 per person and may be purchased at the Senior Center.
The “Move and Soothe” gentle movement class taught by Susan Sandel, Dance/Movement Therapist, will resume on Tuesday afternoons in March from 12:30 to 1:30 PM on the lower level of the Senior Center, starting on Tuesday, March 6. The class will feature gentle movement set to music to stretch, relax and strengthen your body and, most of all, to have fun! Participants should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and sneakers or rubber-soled shoes. Ms. Sandel is an accomplished dance therapist and we are glad to welcome her back to the Senior Center in March for “Move & Soothe” classes each week at the Senior Center.
The 17th annual “Walk for Warmth” will be held in downtown Meriden on Saturday, March 3 at 10:00 AM. This two-mile walk raises money to provide energy assistance to people in need who would otherwise not qualify for help. Last year’s walk raised $16,000 which helped more than 110 households with their winter energy bills. I will be walking in the 2007 “Walk for Warmth” and ask that concerned people consider donating to this worthwhile cause or walking themselves in this community event. To make a pledge, please contact me at the Senior Center at 237-0066 or call New Opportunities of Greater Meriden at 235-0278.
AARP’s trained volunteer Tax-Aide counselors are once again ready to help local seniors with income tax advice and actual preparation of their 2006 Federal and State income tax returns. Meriden AARP volunteers will be at the Max Muravnick Senior Center each Wednesday, from Wednesday, February 7 until Wednesday, April 11. This free service is offered by appointment which may be made by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066.
On a related topic, the Senior Center also has IRS forms to claim a refund of the federal telephone excise taxes you paid with your phone bill for many years. This refund will be included on your income tax return if you file a tax return for 2006. However, if you do not have to file an income tax return you can submit IRS Form 1040EZ-T to claim this refund. For a single person who paid taxes on long distance calling, the standard refund is $30. For further information or to pick up a copy of the form please inquire in the Senior Center office.
The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center will be on Wednesday, April 25 and Friday, April 27 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Class participants will learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8-hour course. Successful completion of the classroom course also entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. The course fee is $10 and reservations for the class are now being accepted by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. Additional AARP Driver Safety Classes this year at the Senior Center will be held on July 25 & 27 and November 7 & 9, 2007.
The Elderly and Disabled Homeowners’ Tax Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut has now started. Any elderly or disabled Meriden homeowner can apply for a credit to their local property taxes at the Meriden Tax Assessor’s Office at City Hall between February 1 and May 15, 2007. To be eligible applicants or their spouse must have been 65 or older by December 31, 2006 or be on Social Security Disability. You must own and live in the house for which you claim a tax credit and the income limits are $28,800 for a single person and $35,300 for a married couple. Applications for tax relief are also available for qualified veterans. For more information contact the Tax Assessor’s Office at 630-4065.
For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director
Mayor’s Corner – Wallingford
Dear Friends,
February is upon us with crisp cold weather and gradually lengthening daylight hours. The name is derived from the Latin word Februa, a time of festival of purification celebrated in ancient Rome. When the 10 month Roman calendar became 12 months, at first January was added to start the calendar and February was added as the last month of the year. In 452 BC February was moved to second place in the calendar.
It is said that we as humans are creatures of habit. That becomes very clear when the calendar we use to mark the passage of time is considered. It is amazing how people who lived thousands of years ago still directly influence how we act and think today. Our contribution to February is President’s Day and Valentine’s Day. Both are worthy entrants deserving of attention. Of course Valentine’s Day is also of Roman origin and identifies the day St. Valentine became a martyr. I guess we should have a Presidential purpose when we propose to our Valentines in purity of spirit. Most of all, keep a sense of humor.
Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr.
We are planning a delicious event to raise funds to help our “adopted” classrooms at Moses Y. Beach School (see separate article on our partnership with MYB on page 5). We need bakers and buyers! Please call 265-7753 to sign up to bake for this event. The goodies will be on sale on February 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., or until supplies run out! Thanks in advance for supporting this special project.
READERS’ THEATRE GROUP
A Readers’ Theatre Group (a popular art form for those who enjoy performing in a play by sitting and reading a part) is being organized for any interested members! No experience necessary! Please sign up during February and we’ll convene the group in March.
DANCE PARTY with VINNIE CARR
Wednesday, February 28, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
It’s a Sweethearts Dance! Join us for an afternoon of dancing, music and fun. Invite your friends!
SENIOR CENTER PARTNERS WITH LOCAL SCHOOL
The Wallingford Senior Center has been designated the official community partner of Moses Y. Beach School. Our relationship with the school began with our joint pen pal program in 1999. We are now planning ways to help enrich the students’ educational experiences. One aspect of our partnership will involve assisting the teachers with classroom materials such as special books and arts and crafts supplies. (Our February Bake Sale will raise funds for this effort.) Our pen pal program (see separate article below) is another important part of our relationship. Also, we will be planning special events at the Senior Center to which our MYB students will be invited. Finally, the teachers have expressed a need for classroom volunteers. Adults are needed to work one-on-one with students; to participate in reading buddies programs; to share their musical talents; or to assist with special projects in the classroom. Obviously this partnership needs lots of participation by senior center members. The time commitment is small but the rewards will be huge!
Please sign up if you want to be part of this exciting new outreach program.
LITERARY COMMITTEE UPDATE
The Literary Committee has begun work on the spring issue of Mirrors of Life, our Senior Center literary magazine. Anyone who wishes to submit an original poem, essay or story is asked to bring it to the reception desk. Please be sure you put your name on everything you submit. Also, new committee members are always welcome. We need your ideas and hope you will join us. Sign up and we will contact you regarding meeting dates and times.
SOCIAL SERVICES
ELDER LAW ATTORNEY APPOINTMENTS
Available Wednesday, February 7
Appointments are available for the afternoon of Wednesday, February 7 to get free legal advice from Attorney Daniel Tully. Please call 265-7753 today to reserve your appointment.
HOMEOWNER TAX RELIEF PROGRAM
February 1 through May 15, 2007
Who should apply? People sixty-five years of age, or Totally Disabled as of December 31 preceding the application period. Applicants must own and reside, or hold Life-Use of property. Annual income (including Social Security) cannot exceed $28,800 in 2006 for a single individual or $35,300 in 2006 for married couples. Please call the Assessor’s office at 294-2001 for more information.
Property Tax Deferral for the Elderly
February 1 through May 15, 2007
How does Property Tax Deferral Work? The tax on your property is postponed, to be collected at a future date.
Who qualifies for Property Tax Deferral? Any homeowner who is presently receiving benefits under the Elderly Homeowners Program qualifies for tax deferral. Please apply at the Assessor’s Office, or call 294-2001 for more information.
HAVE YOU APPLIED YET FOR THE CT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM?
The Senior Center takes applications for energy assistance for Wallingford residents, age 60 and over. Income limits are $27,867.32 for a single person and $36,441.88 for two people. There are asset limits. Applications are by appointment only. To find out more information or to schedule an appointment, call 265-7753.
ENERGY ASSISTANCE NEWS FLASH !
March 15, 2007 is the deadline for fuel authorizations or deliveries from Basic Benefits, Crisis Assistance or Safety Net Assistance. To request a fuel delivery, follow directions on the guideline notice you received when you made your application. Phone 235-0278 or 237-6957 Ext. 21 or 22 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP - EASY TO USE TALKING BOOK MACHINES
Announcing more portable and “user friendly” talking book machines ready to be delivered to you free of charge through the Connecticut State Library for the Blind. This is a terrific service. See a demonstration and find out how easy it is hear books on tape! All are invited—Friday, February 16 at 10:15 a.m. Please call 265-7753 to register.
ATTENTION ENERGY ASSISTANCE ELECTRIC HEAT CUSTOMERS EXCITING NEWS FROM WALLINGFORD ELECTRIC
The Wallingford Electric Division is evaluating a new method of the way it recognizes Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) awards. In the past, if you received an award, the Division would credit your account upon the actual receipt of the check from the State for the CEAP award. As you may know, the award checks do not come in until the end of the winter or early spring. This winter, the Division will recognize your CEAP award as a credit to your account at the time the Division receives notice of the award. Larry Elliott of New Opportunities has agreed to have his staff provide the Division with a monthly report of awards. In addition, the Division can still receive award letters directly from you, the customer, as the Division has in the past. Upon receipt of the monthly reports or your individual award letter, the Division will post a credit adjustment to your account in the amount of the award. This credit will serve to offset any existing open items on your account or to offset upcoming bills. The quickest way to get the award posted to your account is for you to forward a copy of your award letter to the Wallingford Electric Division customer service staff at 100 John Street. If you have any questions, please contact Electric Division Customer Service at 294–2020.
DRIVING REWARD
Remember when you were 16 and newly licensed? Was there anything more thrilling than the grown up feeling of driving? Driving, no doubt, has lost some of that thrill factor over time, but there are still good feelings to be had. Being a volunteer driver with Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers (even if you only do it once or twice a month) will give you the unmistakable satisfaction of really helping a neighbor. Our drivers give rides to medical appointments and take people grocery shopping or just out for a change of scenery. Gas mileage reimbursement is available to our volunteers. Please call Social Worker Marie Cunha at 265-7753 for details.
AARP SAFE DRIVER CLASS
February 5 & 7 or March 5 & 7
The AARP Driver Safety Course will be offered in February and in March, on Monday and Wednesday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The fee for the eight-hour classroom course is $10.00 per person which must be paid at the time of registration.
Check payable to “AARP.” Cash cannot be accepted.
CITY OF MERIDEN FEBRUARY EVENTS
VALENTINE’S DAY CARD CONTEST
Grades K-5 students are invited to enter the 2007 Valentine’s Day Card Contest. Original, hand-produced cards can be brought or mailed to the Parks & Recreation office between February 1st – 12th. Winners will receive a special prize package. All entries must include the child’s name, phone number, school, & grade.
WINTER VACATION WEEK CAMP
The Recreation Division’s “Winter Vacation Week Camp” will meet from 9:15AM-3:00PM at Hanover School from February 20th-23rd. It features games, puzzles, educational sessions, arts & crafts, and videos in addition to hiking, swimming, movies, & arcade field trips. Boys & girls currently in grades K-6 are eligible to attend. Beginning February 5th, interested participants can register at the Parks & Recreation office. The cost is $40.00 for the week. Please register soon, as there are only 40 openings available for the program.
MASA REGISTRATION
Rules & roster forms for the 2007 Meriden Amateur Softball Association season will be available at the Parks & Recreation office beginning Wednesday, February 14th. The league registration meeting will be held Monday, March 5th.
2006-2007 CO-ED ADULT VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM
Organized recreational volleyball games for adults ages 18 & older take place every Tuesday night at Holy Angels Center in South Meriden from 6:00-9:00PM. The program runs through March 27th. A one-time $25.00 registration fee can be paid onsite any night the program is in session.
INDOOR PUBLIC SWIM PROGRAM
The 2006-2007 Indoor Public Swim Program takes place at the Maloney HS pool on the following dates & times: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6:30-7:45PM and Saturdays & Sundays from 12:00-3:45PM.
All interested participants must possess a valid 2007 pool pass. Available for purchase at the Parks & Recreation office, passes cost $5.00 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 17 & under. Potential recipients must come to the office in-person and bring proof of Meriden residency to receive a pass.
20TH ANNUAL “DAFFODILS ON PARADE”
The 20th Annual “Daffodils on Parade” will take place on Saturday, April 28th. Groups, clubs, schools, businesses, or individuals wishing to march in Meriden’s largest parade are asked to call the Recreation Division office at 630-4259 for an entry form. Creative participation is always welcome!
MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 60 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
City Clerk Irene Masse will speak at the Senior Center before lunch on Wednesday, February 14 at 11:15 AM about the new passport requirements for U.S. travelers. Beginning January 23, all U.S. citizens traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport. This will also apply to land and sea travel as early as January 1, 2008. Please note that the passport requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or directly from a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico. The City Clerk will explain the new regulations and how to apply for a passport for those interested. Also that day, a special Valentine’s Day lunch of oven roasted chicken with gravy, roasted potatoes, and green and wax beans with cherry pie for dessert will be served. For a lunch reservation call 235-8052. Entertainment will be provided by singer George Gandy.
A Valentine Dinner Dance will be held at the Senior Center on Thursday, February 15 with music provided by Vinnie Carr. Dinner of top round of beef, baked potato, green beans almondine, dessert and coffee will be served from 5:00 to 6:00 with dancing from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Tickets are available now for
Meriden residents at a cost $6 per person and may be purchased at the Senior Center.
The “Move and Soothe” gentle movement class taught by Susan Sandel, Dance/Movement Therapist, will resume on Tuesday afternoons in March from 12:30 to 1:30 PM on the lower level of the Senior Center, starting on Tuesday, March 6. The class will feature gentle movement set to music to stretch, relax and strengthen your body and, most of all, to have fun! Participants should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and sneakers or rubber-soled shoes. Ms. Sandel is an accomplished dance therapist and we are glad to welcome her back to the Senior Center in March for “Move & Soothe” classes each week at the Senior Center.
The 17th annual “Walk for Warmth” will be held in downtown Meriden on Saturday, March 3 at 10:00 AM. This two-mile walk raises money to provide energy assistance to people in need who would otherwise not qualify for help. Last year’s walk raised $16,000 which helped more than 110 households with their winter energy bills. I will be walking in the 2007 “Walk for Warmth” and ask that concerned people consider donating to this worthwhile cause or walking themselves in this community event. To make a pledge, please contact me at the Senior Center at 237-0066 or call New Opportunities of Greater Meriden at 235-0278.
AARP’s trained volunteer Tax-Aide counselors are once again ready to help local seniors with income tax advice and actual preparation of their 2006 Federal and State income tax returns. Meriden AARP volunteers will be at the Max Muravnick Senior Center each Wednesday, from Wednesday, February 7 until Wednesday, April 11. This free service is offered by appointment which may be made by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066.
On a related topic, the Senior Center also has IRS forms to claim a refund of the federal telephone excise taxes you paid with your phone bill for many years. This refund will be included on your income tax return if you file a tax return for 2006. However, if you do not have to file an income tax return you can submit IRS Form 1040EZ-T to claim this refund. For a single person who paid taxes on long distance calling, the standard refund is $30. For further information or to pick up a copy of the form please inquire in the Senior Center office.
The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center will be on Wednesday, April 25 and Friday, April 27 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Class participants will learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8-hour course. Successful completion of the classroom course also entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. The course fee is $10 and reservations for the class are now being accepted by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. Additional AARP Driver Safety Classes this year at the Senior Center will be held on July 25 & 27 and November 7 & 9, 2007.
The Elderly and Disabled Homeowners’ Tax Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut has now started. Any elderly or disabled Meriden homeowner can apply for a credit to their local property taxes at the Meriden Tax Assessor’s Office at City Hall between February 1 and May 15, 2007. To be eligible applicants or their spouse must have been 65 or older by December 31, 2006 or be on Social Security Disability. You must own and live in the house for which you claim a tax credit and the income limits are $28,800 for a single person and $35,300 for a married couple. Applications for tax relief are also available for qualified veterans. For more information contact the Tax Assessor’s Office at 630-4065.
For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director
Mayor’s Corner – Wallingford
Dear Friends,
February is upon us with crisp cold weather and gradually lengthening daylight hours. The name is derived from the Latin word Februa, a time of festival of purification celebrated in ancient Rome. When the 10 month Roman calendar became 12 months, at first January was added to start the calendar and February was added as the last month of the year. In 452 BC February was moved to second place in the calendar.
It is said that we as humans are creatures of habit. That becomes very clear when the calendar we use to mark the passage of time is considered. It is amazing how people who lived thousands of years ago still directly influence how we act and think today. Our contribution to February is President’s Day and Valentine’s Day. Both are worthy entrants deserving of attention. Of course Valentine’s Day is also of Roman origin and identifies the day St. Valentine became a martyr. I guess we should have a Presidential purpose when we propose to our Valentines in purity of spirit. Most of all, keep a sense of humor.
Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor of Wallingford
posted by The People's Press at
8:02 PM
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