February 2007 Wallingford and Meriden Library News and Events

The February Wallingford and Meriden Library News and Events are sponsored by Marianna's Bakery.

MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY SATELLITE BRANCHES TO HOLD STORYTIMES
The Meriden Public Library Satellite branches will be holding drop-in story times starting in January. Children in kindergarten through second grade and their caregivers are encouraged to visit a branch to hear stories and participate in a craft. The story times will begin at 5:00 PM and will be held in the media centers at Nathan Hale, Hanover, and John Barry Elementary schools. The schedule is as follows:
John Barry School Branch – Wednesdays at 5:00 PM
February 7, 2007
February 28, 2007
March 21, 2007
April 11, 2007
May 2, 2007
Hanover School Branch – Tuesdays at 5:00 PM
February 13, 2007
March 6, 2007
March 27, 2007
April 24, 2007
May 15, 2007
Nathan Hale Branch – Mondays at 5:00 PM
February 26, 2007
March 12, 2007
April 2, 2007
April 30, 2007
May 21, 2007
The storytimes are free and open to the public. For more information about the library branches or questions about the storytimes, please contact the Community Affairs Department at (203) 630-6349 or comsvc@hotmail.com.

MERIDEN LIBRARY BOOKMOBILE SCHEDULE
The Bookmobile, or Library on Wheels, will be visiting Meriden communities according to the following schedule for February:
Monday, Feb. 5 - Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 to 10:00 AM; Women and
Families Center 10:15 to 11:30 AM; Village at Kensington Place 1:30 to 2:15 PM;
Tuesday, Feb. 6 - Catholic Charities Nursery School 9:15 to 10:00 AM; Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:15 to 11:30 AM; Connecticut Baptist Homes, 3:00 to 3:45 PM;
Wednesday, Feb. 7 - Easter Seals (Broad St) 9:00 to 10:00 AM; Bradley Home 10:15 to 11:30 AM;
Thursday, Feb. 8 – Children’s Discovery Center 9:30 to 10:30 AM; The Right Place (Salvation Army) 10:45 to 11:15 AM;
Friday, Feb. 9 – Stork Club 9:30 to 10:30 AM, Miller Memorial 10:45 to 11:30 AM;
Monday, Feb. 12 - First Congregational Nursery School 9:00 to 10:00 AM; St. John’s Nursery School 10:00 to 11:00 AM; First Congregational Nursery School 1:00 to 1:30 PM;
Tuesday, Feb. 13 – First Congregational Nursery School 9:00 to 10:00 AM; Meriden Child Care Center 10:15 to 11:30 AM;
Wednesday, Feb. 14 - Head Start (Lourdes Ct.) 9:45 to 10:15 AM; Carriage House Day Care Center 10:30 to 11:00 AM; Chamberlain Heights/Lourdes Ct. 3:30 to 4:15 PM;
Thursday, Feb. 15 - Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 to 10:00 AM; St. John’s Nursery School 10:15 to 10:30 AM; St. John’s Nursery School 1:00 to 1:30 PM; Home deliveries 2:30 to 3:00 PM;
Tuesday, Feb. 20- Catholic Charities Child Development Center 9:15 to 9:45 AM; Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:00 to 11:00 AM;
Village at Kensington Place 1:30 to 2:15 PM;
Wednesday, Feb. 21 - Easter Seals (Broad St) 9:00 to 10:00 AM; Women and Families Center 10:15 to 11:30 AM; Bradley Home 1:00 to 2:00 PM;
Thursday, Feb. 22 – Children’s Discovery Center 9:30 to 10:30 AM; The Right Place (Salvation Army) 10:45 to 11:15 AM;
Friday, Feb. 23 – Stork Club 9:30 to 10:30 AM; Miller Memorial 10:45 to 11:30 AM;
Monday, Feb. 26 – Head Start (Liberty St.) 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM;
Tuesday, Feb. 27 –– YMCA - Kids Campus 10:00 to 11:30 AM and 1:00 to 1:30 PM.
Wednesday, Feb. 28 – Head Start (Lourdes Ct.) 9:45 to 10:15 AM; Carriage House Day Care Center 10:30 to 11:00 AM.

Meriden Public Library News and Events
MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HOST VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STARTING FEBRUARY 3
Meriden Public Library will host the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program beginning Saturday, February 3. The library is located at 105 Miller Street. V.I.T.A., which is sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service, provides free help to taxpayers who cannot afford professional assistance or who have tax questions. Assistance in preparing Connecticut state tax forms will also be available.

The sessions will all take place in Meriden Public Library’s Friends Room, located at the side of the building every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. starting February 3 and every Wednesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. starting February 7. The last session will take place on Saturday, April 14.

V.I.T.A. volunteers alert taxpayers to special credits and deductions for which they may be eligible. People interested in attending the V.I.T.A. program should bring this year’s tax package, wage and earnings statements (W2), interest statements from their banks, and a copy of their previous year’s tax return. In addition, people must also bring a photo I.D. showing their current address and a social security card or number. If a joint return is desired, both taxpayers must be present. For an appointment or information, call (203) 630-6331; on Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. or Saturdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. only.
CHUCK OAKES TO SIGN COPIES OF “MAKING YOUR HOME SENIOR-FRIENDLY” FEBRUARY 7
Meriden Public Library will host a special appearance by Chuck Oakes, author of MAKING YOUR HOME SENIOR-FRIENDLY on Wednesday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m. Oakes will autograph copies of his book after a presentation.

In 1995, there were 33 million Americans over the age of 65. In 2020, there will be almost 70 million! (doubling in less than 25 years!) As a baby-boomer with parents in their 80’s, Oakes is doing all he can to support and assist his folks as they continue to reside in “The Oakes Homestead”. His mother’s broken hip and continuing recovery really opened his eyes as to the challenge of aging to families, employers and individuals today. He summarized some of his thoughts and tips in his book, MAKING YOUR HOME SENIOR-FRIENDLY. The book is a great introduction to the aging process and how we, as family members, can better support our aging parents. Many of the ideas and devices mentioned can be beneficial to persons with limited abilities.

Universal design and adaptive technology are terms that are quickly becoming integrated into the design and development of communities, rehab and other residences.

Chuck Oakes has his roots in Long Island, New York. His family moved to the outskirts of Los Angeles, above the smog, when he was seven. After being inspired by the Kingston Trio at a local concert, he immediately took up the guitar and formed his own performing trio, aptly called “The Princeton Trio”. At the age of eight, his group was signed to appear on the Steve Allen Show. After three impressionable years in L.A., his family moved to West Hartford where he sang his way through grade school! Local modeling, singing and acting began while in school. Upon graduating with a B.S. degree in business administration, he began performing in the hotel circuit. His career expanded to include television commercials, appearing on the Kate & Allie television series, opening for the Kingston Trio and modeling as “The Stetson Man” for Coty Cosmetics.

After years of the non-corporate world, Chuck transferred his stage and “stand up” skills to the corporate realm as an executive coach and corporate trainer. He began writing for various publications and websites including those of: USA Today, the Wall St. Journal, The American Management Association, USA Disabled, the Progressive Grocer, RV West and others. His research and writing on matters pertaining to individuals with disabilities prompted him to be an Advisor to President Reagan’s COUNCIL ON HIRING THE DISABLED. As a result of his recent writing and research in aging at home, he is now a member of the COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATION COUNCIL OF THE UNITED NATIONS. The booksigning is free and the public is invited to attend. Since seating is limited, free registration is requested by calling 203 630-6349, by sending an email to: comsvc@hotmail.com or by signing up at the online calendar at http://www.meridenlibrary.org/

KEVIN MATSIL TO DEMONSTRATE LIGHT GREEK COOKING FEBRUARY 11
Meriden Public Library will host a demonstration of light Greek cooking on Sunday, February 11 at 2:00 p.m. Washington Middle School science teacher Kevin Matsil will be the guest speaker.

Kevin has always had a passion for cooking, which has led him to have an extensive collection of cookbooks. He enjoys sharing his love of cooking with family and friends. He specializes in baking various breads, but after visiting the Greek Islands and reconnecting with his Greek heritage, Kevin began experimenting with Mediterranean cuisine. He has recreated many local dishes from various regions of Greece.

You are invited to see Kevin demonstrate how easy it is to recreate some of his favorite recipes, which will be distributed at the end of the program. The audience will have the opportunity to taste samples of each recipe made.

Kevin is active in his community, volunteering with the Masons, the Friends of Meriden Public Library and the First United Methodist Church.

The program is free but registration is required. Please call the library at 203 630-6349 or send an email to: comsvc@hotmail.com or sign up online at the library’s calendar located at http://www.meridenlibrary.org/.

FISHER TO PRESENT “SENIOR CITIZEN AWARENESS WORKSHOP”
FEBRUARY 13
Meriden Public Library will host a special “Senior Citizen Awareness” workshop on health insurance on Tuesday, February 13 at 4:00 p.m. Licensed, independent life and health insurance agent Lance Fisher will be the guest speaker.


Fisher, a senior market specialist, will discuss the latest news of interest to senior citizens in the field of health insurance and financial planning.
Attendees will learn:
*How to avoid Medicare seizure of assets for nursing home costs
* How to protect your assets from the expense and delays of probate
*Why variable annuities might be dangerous
*Do you know how much you are actually paying in fees on your investments!
Fisher will also discuss recent changes in Medicare plans available to seniors.

Fisher, who is affiliated with Horizon Financial Planning, is the former business owner of Day Star Corp. He has been active in the insurance industry for 3 years and is currently licensed in Connecticut and Florida; he expects to receive his certified financial planner credential in January 2007.

The program is free and the public is invited to attend. Free registration is requested by calling (203) 630-6349 or by sending an email to: comsvc@hotmail.com or by signing up at the library’s calendar located at http://www.meridenlibrary.org/
MT. HEBRON BAPTIST CHOIR TO PRESENT CONCERT FEBRUARY 26
The Mount Hebron Baptist Choir from Mount Hebron Baptist Church in Meriden will present a concert of gospel music at Meriden Public Library on Monday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend.

The choir is led by president Marie Preston and directress Marcia Cooper. DeWayne Lewis serves as organist and pianist. Organized in 1992 by Pastor Willie Young, the choir performs during the first Sunday service of the month as well as at the Communion Service. The choir also supports Pastor Young when he preaches at other churches throughout the state.

The concert is free and the public is invited to attend. Light refreshments will be served. For further information, call 203 630-6349.

MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HOST -PART DISCUSSION SERIES ON "TERRORISM & TAKEOVERS" Continues on February 21stMeriden Public Library will host a four-part book discussion series called "Terrorism & Takeovers" starting February 21st at 4:00 p.m. The series is co-sponsored by the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center and the Connecticut Humanities Council and will be moderated by Lynn Faria, Director of Community Relations and Community Wellness at MidState Medical Center. The schedule of discussions is as follows: Wednesday, February 21 BEL CANTO, 7:00 p.m. by Ann PatchettTuesday, March 6 THE PLOT AGAINST AMERICA, 4:00 p.m. by Philip RothWednesday, March 21 THE HANDMAID'S TALE, 7:00 p.m. by Margaret Atwood
These contemporary novels focus on actual or attempted political or religious/ political takeovers of an existing, comfortable complacent society: Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid's Tale (1985); Philip Roth, The Plot Against America (2004); Ann Patchett, Bel Canto (2001); and Jonathan Safran Foer, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (2005). These books are disconcerting, disquieting; they force readers to contemplate what it would be like to live with takeover. Atwood and Roth show how insidious takeovers can be, how subtle, sure, swift, total and totalitarian, though not permanent. There is hope, however transient or temporary it may be. Patchett offers an alternative, a utopian scenario of love emerging from the surprising union of terrorists and international hostages, mesmerized by the gorgeous singing of the world-class soprano. However, by definition utopias cannot last. The quest of Foer's hero, a wildly imaginative, endearing nine-year-old child, to find the secret of his father, who died in the World Trade Center on 9-11, is in itself as endearing as it is complicated, and quixotic.The series is free and the public is invited to register by calling 203 630-6349 or send an email to: comsvc@hotmail.com or sign up at the online calendar at http://www.meridenlibrary.org/

MERIDEN-MOVIES! MOVIES! MOVIES!Don't be bored during vacation week; come watch movies on our big screen with surround sound!Wednesday, February 21st at 1:00 PM. For ages 10 and older.Thursday, February 22nd at 11:00 PM. For ages 3 and up. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Children may bring a sleeping bag or something to cuddle with. We'll even make the popcorn! Just bring a clear drink. Call to sign-up at (203) 630-6348 or find out more about our movies.


Wallingford Public Library News and Events
Mother-Daughter Reading Group

The Wallingford Library Mother-Daughter group will meet on the following dates. All interested teens and their mothers or female friend are welcome to attend:
Mon., Feb. 12th: Miracle’s Boys by Jacquelyn Woodson
Twelve-year-old Lafayette's close relationship with his older brother Charlie changes after Charlie is released from a detention home and blames Lafayette for the death of their mother.

Wed., Mar. 7th: Magic Lessons by Justine Larbalestier
When fifteen-year-old Reason is pulled through the magical door connecting New York City with her grandmother’s home in Sydney, Australia, she encounters an impossibly ancient man who seems to have some purpose in mind for her.

Copies of the books are available through the Library or may be purchased from a book store. Please register at the adult Information Desk in person or by phone (265-6754). This group provides a friendly, comfortable forum for girls and mothers to share interesting books and important ideas as well as to encourage self-confidence and strengthen bonds—all while having lots of fun! Refreshments will be served.

Great Books Discussion Series
This winter the Library is co-sponsoring a Great Books Discussion Series with Ashlar Village. This series is based on the idea that by reading from the greats books of our civilization and discussing them with other readers we can reach a fuller understanding of these works.Each participant will be loaned an anthology of readings as well as a Reader’s Aid with suggestions on how to prepare for the discussion. The schedule for discussions is:* February 6 - Civilization and Its Discontents by Sigmund Freud* February 13 - The Social Contract by Jean-Jacque Rousseau
These discussions will be held at Ashlar Village on Wednesday afternoons at 1:30. Participants may sign up by calling Kerry Hatch at Ashlar Village (203) 679-6874 or Sue Smayda at the Library (203) 265-6754.

Homework Help is Back! Homework help for kids every Tuesday and Thursday 3:30 to 5:15 p.m. in the Children’s Room will resume beginning Thursday, January 4th and continue through Thursday, February 22nd . Students from Choate Rosemary Hall will be available to help students with their assignments. No need to register, just stop by!