Walingford and Meriden YOUR STORIES August 2008
GRAMPS ON THE GOLF LINKS
Dorothy Gonick
The Berkshire Blossom Film Festival had a 24-hour film challenge with the following parameters:
“Hey Jack, where’s the green?”
A local business establishment
An egg, a banana or a Twinkie.
Just for fun I chose to write a poem in those 24 hours with same parameters. Here it is.
GRAMPS ON THE GOLF LINKS
June 8, 1980 Dorothy Gonick
Hooray, hooray,
Gramp came to visit today!
I thought he’d say
“What d’you want to play?”
But what he said, was
“Hey Jack, Where’s the green?”
“The green?
What do you mean?”
“Golfing, my boy.
My clubs I’ve brought.
Go put on your cap--
The sun it’s so hot.”
Gramps handed me a club
Put a ball on the tee,
Helped me to swing
And we sent it with glee.
The sun was hot and
Soon I got weary,
Sat under a tree.
To munch on my Twinkie
Gramps kept swinging,
Sent the ball soaring high
Into the bushes
And out of our sight.
“Let’s go home” I called,
As he looked for the ball.
But Gramps searched long
Until, ‘Eureka!’ he called.
“It’s here in the shadows
A good long shot.”
Grasping his club
He said “Ready or not.”
Swung hard at the ball,
But heard a loud Splot!
Got egg on his trousers,
Surprised him a lot.
Two ducks came a flapping
Mid loud noisy quacking,
Struck him and nipped him
And sent him a rushing.
Swinging his club,
He ran toward the car,
Yelling, “Hey Jack,
Games over, I’ll not make par.”
Home from the green,
I told his sad tale,
Send family to laughing--
They giggled a gale.
South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department 100th Anniversary
South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating its 100 years of service to the Village of South Meriden and the City of Meriden.
During our Anniversary this year we will be celebrating with different events throughout the year. The City’s annual Independence Day Fire Works Display that was held on July 3rd was dedicated in the honor of our 100th Anniversary.
In August we will be celebrating by sponsoring a Carnival starting on Thursday August 21st thru Sunday August 24th located will either be Hanover School Property or Habershon Field. Location will be announced in the very near future.
On Saturday August 23rd from 10 am to 3:00 pm we will be having an open house at our fire station. During our open house we will be having extrication demonstration, fire extinguishing training and we will also have the State of CT children’s smoke house survival training trailer to demo safe exit during a fire emergency from your home. We will also have a visit from CT Army National Guard Fire unit that is based in East Lyme, CT with one of their fire apparatus.
The American Red Cross will also be at our station doing a blood drive. Please donate and give the gift of life.
Fund Raising Information
We also want to thank all of our financial supporters who have already donated to our annual fund raiser. We use these funds each year to help off set our small budget. We purchase additional fire fighting gear, Emergency Service supplies and use some for training. We are also looking to purchase an Emergency 4 wheel ATV (i.e. a Gator) to be used on the new Liner Trail and for the next phase of the trail proceeding from Dawson Beach parking lot & behind Wilcox and Platt High Schools to Coe Ave. With the over whelming popularity of the trail, and the trail not being readily accessible to fire apparatus and ambulances do to the safety/security barriers, having an equipped Emergency response 4 wheel ATV will allow us to reach people that might get injured or become ill in a timely fashion. This vehicle will be equipped with a stationary stretcher pad and a seat for an attendant. The price of the unit equipped with a trailer is approximately $15,000.
Donations can be sent to SMVFD, at PO Box 3030, Meriden, CT 06450
Fire Education & Home Safety Check
16 years ago we introduced our annual Home Safety Check for the residents of our fire district. We are still providing this Free service to all our neighbors. Please call us to set up an appointment. We will come to your home and make suggestions on safety items that could protect your family and your home. We will suggest the proper locations for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and types of fire extinguishers to have in the home and other emergency equipment that can be used in case of a fire or medical emergency.
Our fire education services are dedicated to developing fire prevention and education projects in the South Meriden community. Some programs involve pre-school and elementary school children while others involve adults and the elderly. Our department also helps businesses with fire extinguishing classes to educate employees in the event of a fire
Now its time for a several safety tips for our neighbors.
We hope you all have working smoke detectors in your home.
Working Smoke detectors save lives. Please make sure that you changed your batteries in the detectors. The best time to remember to change the batteries is when day light saving time comes. When you change your clocks back or forth change the batteries for safety. But if you did not have the opportunity to change the battery yet the today would be a good time also.
Also if you do not have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your home please purchase them. CO Emergencies just do not happen in the winter months. CO is a colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas that is produced by inefficient burning and incomplete combustion of fuel products in heating appliances, furnace, hot water heaters, and stoves. If you do not have efficient burning appliances in the home, over a period of time CO could be building up in the home which if unchecked could lead to medical conditions and even Death. Having your furnace cleaned and serviced each year will help keep the units running more efficiently. CO is the silent killer, please protect your family and yourself and purchase CO detectors for your home. CO is also produced by normal operation of your vehicles and comes out of the vehicles exhaust systems. Running your vehicle in the garage could cause CO to seep directly into the home.
Another health Tip.
If you can and have the time and the energy may be you can help a neighbor who is a little older or might be ill, give them a hand by mowing the lawn or cleaning their gutters. Please take caution when on ladders when cleaning gutters or cleaning windows. Make sure you are clear of all electrical lines when raising a ladder or lowing a ladder. It feels real good to be able to help others out during the year if you can help some one today.
Also with this rash of storms we have been having please be careful to take shelter inside a building during lighting storms. If you see wires down do not go near them call 911 for assistance and the fire department and or police department will come out to secure the area until CL&P can get to the scene.
We also want to thank all of our friends that have helping clean snow and ice a way from fire hydrants during the winter months, now we are also asking you to help by clearing weeds and grass away from the hydrants during the summer months. This allows the fire department during fire emergencies to hook up to fire hydrants quicker to gain access to a water supply if the fire is one of a substantial size; your help is really appreciated.
And one more health tip. If you are under a doctor’s care and take certain medications keep a list of these medications handy just in case you have the need to call 911 for during a medical emergency. Also with this list you might want to give a little history of any medical conditions that you also might have. These are important things for emergency responders to have just in case you are unable to respond to our questions when we arrive at your home. A good place to keep this information is in an envelope on you refrigerator and note that it is Medical Info.
Information about our application process:
Membership Information
After September 11, 2001 (911) we had a surge of memberships in Volunteer Fire Departments not only in CT but a cross the Nation. The numbers of volunteers has dropped in the last several years and we all need help to continue to serve our communities.
We are looking for some eager, hard working and committed volunteer recruits to join our department. South Meriden Vol. Fire Dept now is accepting applications. We are recruiting citizens from Meriden over the age of 18 who are High School Graduates in good physical health and have a clean police record. No fire fighting experience is necessary; we will train you and send you for training.
We also do recruitment for certified firefighters that live outside of Meriden as long as they can meet our bylaw requirements to do minimum one duty overnight crew a week plus meet our drill, meeting and squad duty requirements.
We are one of the only Volunteer fire stations in the State that have sleep-in crews at our fire station we presently cover 6 out of 7 nights. Our nightly in-house status allows us to service our customers you our neighbors quicker.
Being a volunteer fire fighter takes a lot of commitment and time.
Our members make a lot of personal sacrifices to belong to our department, but they get great satisfaction of being part of terrific tradition of saving lives and property. We train and work hard but we love serving and protecting our friends and visitors.
Applications can be picked up at our station at 31 Camp Street, South Meriden in the evenings. We are a DRUG FREE Department and we TEST all applicants.
Good-bye for now, talk to you soon
Keep Safe & Stay Healthy during the summer!
Keith Gordon, Chief of Operations South Meriden Fire Rescue
Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals
Dear Readers,
Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advise from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.
Let us all make this summer a summer filled with adventure.
June and Flora
Dear Housewives,
I am planning on going back to work 3 days a week. My mother will be watching our two children all day. They are 2 1/2 and 6 years old. My husband and I disagree as to whether or not to pay her. I think no, he thinks yes. What do you two Housewives think?
Pay Grandma or not in CT
JUNE: Dear Pay, I think you should definitely offer to pay her even though she probably would not accept. There are a few things to consider too. Does she need the money? Is she leaving a paying job to watch your kids for you? Even if she doesn't accept money for watching them you should leave money for them to do activities so she is not paying for movies, treats, lunches out or ice cream cones. Make sure that you get her a nice gift every so often as well to show your appreciation.
FLORA: You know if your Mom is in need of money. If she could use the extra cash but won't accept, buy her some groceries each week, cut her lawn, pay for her car to be serviced. Do pay for the necessary things in life and treat her to dinner every so often!
Dear Housewives,
It is summertime again and every year my husband and I disagree over sending our child to summer camp. She is shy and I feel she would benefit from doing other things with other kids. He feels she should be home with me and not feeling alone and shy at camp. He won the last two years but this year I am standing my ground. Can you help?
Poison Ivy in Meriden
FLORA: Hmmm....I wonder if hubby had some separation issues as a tyke... Could it be the cost of sending her to camp with you being home? Investigate and find if there is a half-day program for your daughter to try. If she is shy, don't push her into anything that can backfire. Ease into whatever you decide. Let us know in the fall what you and your husband decide to do.
JUNE: Good question! This is the first year I have sent my oldest little June bug to camp and for the most part he liked it. He is on the shy side when he is with kids he doesn't know so it helped that I sent him to a camp where he had two classmates in his group. He ended up meeting some other nice kids and wasn't sitting around the house bored or fighting with his younger brother all day. I think you should send her as long as it doesn't cause her real physical anxiety. She may not be the type of kid who likes camp and she may not be ready. Your husband has a point but I think if she is old enough you should try it once. If she doesn't learn to love it find other ways for her to branch out. You could go to a play groups, invite friends over, take her out to museums and restaurants to be around strangers more. She may learn to loosen up around others. Good luck.
Summer Fun
Hey Flora, we have been enjoying the library programs this summer, how about you? We have also been going to the local parks to enjoy some good old fashioned playground fun.
Hey June, we have been enjoying the library too! We have been swimming, playing tennis and having some good old fashioned fun outside playing too!
THANKS FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!!!
By Bonnie Kent
This year is a new beginning for me and my family. My first born daughter is heading into high school and pretty soon will be on her own. As I watched my daughter graduate last month I took a look at how she grew into her own. How she gained her confidence, her courage and her sense of independence and I realized it was all the decision I made for her and all her teachers that throughout her life have taught and encouraged her that made my daughter into the young woman she is today.
Today I would like to thank certain members of out teaching society who do not receive the credit that they deeply deserve. You see, when my daughter was younger she was a perfectionist and had trouble with math and memorization. A tutor suggested she learn an instrument to help her with her memorization skills. My daughter chose violin and her 1st teacher was Miss Laura at Wintergreen. Miss Laura’s consistent training gave my daughter the knowledge to improve her memorization and develop a love for music.
Then with 4th grade came orchestra and Ms. Rossamondo (many of you might remember her father, Mr. Rossamondo, from the Wallingford School System) Ms. Rossamondo is very much like her father and the knowledge that she gives to her students is outstanding.
She was a very important part of my daughters learning to read music. Along with the other music teachers at Wintergreen; Mr. Steven and Ms. Morse. I have watched my children grow and have seen improvement in their reading skills, math skills and their ability to understand, adapt and to work in groups. These are the skills that MUSIC that’s right MUSIC has given my children.
For those of us who do not have the opportunity to explore music in our school systems there are private instructors and groups that support music and the knowledge that it gives our children. One that I have known for many years is Sandie Apuzzo. Many of our local kids know Miss Sandie and the Kindermusik classes or summer music programs she runs at her Key and Strings Studio or through private lessons that she gives in piano, violin and viola. Miss Sandie sees every day how much music impacts our lives and our ability to learn and communicate from infancy though our later years in life and she gives that to everyone of her students’ everyday. At one point in my daughters short life she had wanted to give up music and I suggested she try Miss Sandie and in a few short weeks I watched my daughter blossom into a very committed musician. Miss Sandie allows her to explore many different types of music and playing styles while also helping her to explore the world and history through music.
I would also like to thank Ms. Veronica Germain, the conductor for the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra, who volunteers her time to conduct a very fine group of 25 musicians. I have watch this group from the beginning go from single musician each playing for themselves to a group that plays together as one. From our youngest member of our junior orchestra to our oldest member each is inspired to play their best and improve week by week as individuals and as a group. This orchestra is very unique as no one musician is every turned away whether it is for financial reason or talent. Those musicians who our not yet ready to join the full orchestra join as junior member who practice with the orchestra at their own pace and play during the performances until they are ready to join as a full member. These kids play because they love playing and this is the only place that some can play the music that they love due to their school system not being able to provide the music services these kids need.
So as I say thank you I encourage everyone in our area to support music and the arts in our towns and our cities by attending a performance at our schools, churches or local community groups. For those who think that music and arts are important to our youth in our communities sponsor a youth in a theatre production or in the local orchestra or community band. For those of you looking for a place to play contact your local community theatre or orchestra and join a great group of kids.. Or JUST SAY THANKS YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO to a music teacher, art teacher or drama coach.
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E. Haberli Electric
Storms keep popping up. The weather is causing havoc for some homeowners. Surge protectors added to your main electrical panel can help with the lightning problems that we are all experiencing. E. Haberli Electric has experienced electricians that can fix all your electrical problems. They installed a generator at my house so I have power even if a storm strikes and the area looses power, my freezer will not go off and with the price of groceries lately
I could not afford to lose all I have stored. I can still cook and will have lights. I guess the neighbors are coming for dinner
Old circuit breakers or too much drawing off the circuit breakers are a possible cause for tripping
and you may need to update that service. Homeowners who have lived in a house for some time tend to forget that over time electrical items such as toaster ovens, microwaves, coffee pots are added little by little and before you know it the draw has increased and when you plug in that iron or hairdryer oops! Time to update!
Can’t stand the heat and just bought an A/C unit whether it be a window unit that needs a dedicated outlet or an outside unit that needs to be wired into the panel, I know that E. Haberli Electric can do the job, I use them for all my electrical needs. Just call 203-235-5653 and they be there to fix or install what you need.
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"Purr-fect Companions"
Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer
Boy, do we have a cat for you! With the large selection of cats and kittens presently at the M.H.S., why would you go anywhere else to find one? You want a cute cuddly kitten? We've got them. One that's frisky and full of energy? We've got them too! From chatty cats to sweet, shy lap cats, there's a perfect companion for you at the M.H.S.
If you are unsure about what kind of feline is for you, please come on down and spend some time with them. This will give you the chance to see who comes to you and for you to get to know their personalities.
There are many people who don't make a decision on their first visit and return to find the perfect friend. The staff and volunteers are there to assist you in making the right choice to suite your life style and your surroundings.
As always, we desperately need homes for some of our cats that don't adjust well to the large cat population that we have. Some of these cats are Sheba, Rotini, Zeus, Alonso, Sadie, France, Ace, Kelli, Honeydew, Violet, Verizon, Big Poppa, Marge, Celena, Jewel and Maggie.
It has been very slow for donations in the past couple of months and we have so many mouths to feed. Ground wet cat food (no fish please), Purina cat and kitten chow, Alpo or Pedigree canned dog food, bedding (sheets, towels, blankets, etc.) and cleaning supplies are just a few things that would be VERY appreciated.
We will be having a huge tag sale in September to raise funds for the animals. Anything that you would like to donate to help us, can be dropped off after August 1st at the M.H.S. Please check our website for updates, fundraisers and of course, to view the animals. The Meriden Humane Society is located at 311 Murdock Ave. We can also be reached by phone at (203)238-3650 or our website www.meridenhs.petfinder.org. Thank you for your continued support. See you at the shelter!
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CONSUMER CONSIDERATIONS
Paving Your Way -- Driveway Basics for Homeowners
By Jerry Farrell, Jr.
It’s summertime, and for many homeowners, contractors, and scammers, that means driveway time. Your driveway protects your vehicles, shoes and clothing from wet weather, provides a “first impression” to visitors as they approach your home, and enhances curb appeal, adding value to your investment -- so it’s worth planning your driveway carefully.
If your driveway needs a complete reconstruction or resurfacing, consult your neighbors, friends and family members for names of reliable firms they’re familiar with. Call the Department of Consumer Protection at 1-800-842-2649 to ensure that the firms are registered as Home Improvement Contractors and ask about any complaints that we may have on file. Interview several companies; pay special attention to what they recommend and what they can provide. Be sure that you discuss the methods of installation or repair the contractor plans to use. Get at least three bids on the project. Monitor the project and plan to be on hand for the construction.
Avoid the common trap of pavers who knock on your front door with “a load of asphalt that was left over from another job,” offering you a bargain. At best, asphalt that is “left over” from another job will be too cool to make a good driveway pavement. More likely, you’ll fall prey to traveling pavers out to scam you.
Groups of traveling or transient pavers often appear unannounced at your door, ready to offer you a bargain. They also pitch low-cost paving services with flyers or door to door, mostly on weekends. They approach people out in their yards, especially senior citizens. Often, they offer a “neighborhood deal,” a low-cost pitch designed to scam as many victims as possible. Many transient pavers are members of widespread fly-by night operations out to grab the most of your money for little, if any, work. The quality of their work and materials is often inferior, requiring extensive repairs. Every year we get calls about these scams, so don’t become their next victim!
Plan your project carefully, learn something about the subject, hire a reputable contractor, and oversee the work. This is the best way to approach any work on your home.
Two different types of asphalt driveways, hot mix asphalt and chip seal, both lie on a gravel base. Before workers proceed to pave the driveway, check that the gravel base is between 2 and 8 inches thick. A base that is too thin or too thick will not produce a satisfactory driveway. There is a proper amount of process stone and grading needed for adequate water run off, and each driveway is unique.
Hot mix asphalt is a mix of aggregate, containing stones and sand; asphalt also contains liquid asphalt cement. This cement, a petroleum product, is heated to about 300 degrees, the point where it liquefies. The liquid cement and aggregate mix is poured on top of the gravel base, where very soon it cools and hardens into a thick black driveway that absorbs heat in the winter, and therefore helps to melt any snow on its surface. This driveway gets a minimum of cracks, except in locations where the ground freezes well below the surface.
Some hot asphalt mixtures are smoother on top than others; some have a higher content of asphalt cement than others. Consult with your contractor to assure that your mixture will provide the surface and performance characteristics you want.
Some pavers offer full-depth hot asphalt driveways that are built entirely of asphalt mixture from the soil subgrade up. These driveways keep water out of the pavement, preventing ice damage, and overall are considered more durable. Before full-depth paving, topsoil containing clay should be removed or modified. A solid, thoroughly compacted subgrade should be prepared before paving with 5 to 6 inches of full-depth hot mix. As an option, some contractors use 6 to 8 inches of compacted aggregate, or gravel, as a base under 3 inches of hot mix.
A chip seal driveway contains asphalt that has 30% of the liquid cement replaced with water. During paving, the water within the hot asphalt evaporates, and a layer of crushed gravel is sprayed over the asphalt with a special spreader, then a drum roller packs it all down. The warm asphalt “holds” the sprayed gravel pieces, which adds texture to the driveway.
Asphalt must be placed and compacted while it is hot. Air and surface temperatures play significant roles in how fast the mix cools, and therefore determine the amount of time a contractor has to complete the work. The amount of time that a contractor needs will depend on the size of the job, amount of handwork and available equipment. It is also important to ensure that the soil or rock on which the pavement is being placed is firm and dry. If this is not the case, you should ask that the paving be delayed until it is.
How to hire a paving contractor All reputable contractors will be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection and will include their HIC registration number in their ads, on their vehicles and on their contracts, as required by law. They will also be able to provide references and phone numbers of satisfied customers. Ask references about the contractors’ quality of work, attention to details, on-time performance, and ability to finish work completely. Your contractor’s registration with the Department of Consumer Protection is vitally important to you – it can provide you with a measure of protection in case something goes wrong.
Here are some other points to remember:
• Once you have selected the contractor you want, get all the details in a signed contract. The contract should detail such items as the responsibility for grading work and accuracy, for compacting the subgrade and base, for measuring compacted pavement thicknesses, for pavement slopes and smoothness, payment schedule, and guarantee of the finished product. It’s important to make sure your contractor has adequate liability insurance. Ask for written proof, and contact their insurance provider to be sure their policy is in place.
• Be sure your copy of the signed contract includes the contractor’s Home Improvement registration number, three day right of cancellation, a start and end date and a list of all aspects of work to be done.
• Don’t respond to unsolicited offers of home improvement. Contractors who show up, often in unmarked trucks, offering high-pressure, low-priced service, sometimes urging you to hire them the same day, should be sent packing. If a solicitor refuses to leave your premises when asked, contact the police immediately.
• Check gates for clearance; know who’s responsible for re-hanging them, if needed.
• Decide whether you, a plumber, or someone else will raise any water valves or sewer inlets to meet the asphalt around them. Assign specific responsibilities and make notes.
• Surface drainage is very important. Make sure your contractor plans and builds adequate surface slopes to produce good drainage. “Ponding,” or standing water, on or near the driveway, is undesirable.
• Don’t ever pay for your whole project up front. Use a payment schedule that is fair to you and to the contractor, such as 1/3 up front, 1/3 when work is half done, and 1/3 when the project is completed to your satisfaction. Beware of pavers who strongly request cash payments or ask you to make your check payable to cash, rather than to a business name. These are tactics commonly used by transient pavers who are getting ready to take the money and run.
Maintaining your driveway If designed and built correctly, an asphalt driveway will give you years of effective service. A high-grade asphalt emulsion sealer (sometimes called bituminous emulsified sealer) should be applied every two to five years, depending on your climate, wear patterns, and the like. Driveways that are sealed regularly look better and last longer. Emulsion sealers consist of asphalt cement treated to mix with water. Once applied, the water evaporates, the material hardens, and the surface is waterproof. For driveways on slopes, some sealers contain sharp sand that will provide added traction.
Jerry Farrell, Jr., appointed in 2006 by Governor Rell as Connecticut’s Commissioner of Consumer Protection, is an attorney with fifteen years experience. Important information about consumer affairs can be found on the Department’s website: www.ct.gov/dcp.
CONSUMER CONSIDERATIONS: Phone, Cable Internet Packages – Deal or No Deal?
by Jerry Farrell, Jr.
Technology certainly can make life simpler, but often, making the right technology choice is not so simple. These days, many technology providers are pitching plans that promise to deliver high speed internet, local and long-distance phone service and cable or satellite television for about $100 a month. The ads promise that you’ll enjoy the convenience and simplicity of getting just one bill for these services, and having only one company to call if you have questions or need assistance.
Many people certainly save money with this bundled approach. Today, a cable subscription alone can cost $50 or more, so if you use the same provider for cable, phone and internet, a bundled package may save you $20 to $50 per month as opposed to getting the services separately.
But, as with just about anything, this latest trend has its advantages and disadvantages. Sharp consumers carefully weigh the pros and cons of bundled services against their actual usage and needs.
Your first step before looking at packages is to round up several months’ worth of your recent bills for TV service, Internet, and phone. Track what you use and what you spend. This way, you’ll be able to compare the promotional offers with your actual usage, costs, and needs.
As you review the various offers, notice that many bundled deals are time limited “promotions,” usually lasting from three months to one year. You want to find out what happens to the low promotional prices after the promotional period ends; how much will your bill go up?
Some telecommunication companies will offer to lower your rate if you sign a contract that locks you in for a year or more. Before signing any contract, read all the literature carefully. Be sure you understand what happens if you terminate the contract early. Termination fees are known to be as high as $250.
Remember to compare your current usage, needs and costs with those offered through the plan. Read all the terms carefully to make sure you are getting what you need and saving money as well. For example, in some bundles, long distance minutes are limited, so if you need a lot of long distance time, you’ll pay extra. You want to ask what the rate will be if you go over the limit.
Some companies that provide Internet phone service don’t support faxing, so if your home business requires it, you’ll be out of luck. Similarly, if the Internet phone provider has an outage or interruption in service, you’ll be without phone as well as Internet service until the system is back online.
If your needs change while you’re in a promotion period or contract, you may be unable to change service options without encumbering additional expense or a rate increase. Even with providers that don’t require contracts, rates can rise if one of the bundled services is dropped or changed. Ask about penalties or other problems that may occur if services or dropped or modified prematurely.
There are often fees and equipment charges over and above the bundle’s advertised price. For example, your cable box, modem or satellite equipment will most likely be extra. Make sure you read and understand all of the fees and charges associated with your package.
Finally, be absolutely sure you can receive the advertised services where you live. Some high-speed Internet services may not be available in your area. Satellite is more widely available, provided your home has an unobstructed view of the horizon to the southwest. DSL is widely available in urban and suburban neighborhoods, but not as much in rural areas. If you don’t ask, you may not find out until after you sign up.
To sum up, one-stop shopping makes sense when it saves time and money without sacrificing value. For many consumers, a bundled telecommunications package is a real deal, but certainly, you should make that determination for yourself.
Jerry Farrell, Jr., appointed in 2006 by Governor Rell as Connecticut’s Commissioner of Consumer Protection, is an attorney with fifteen years experience. Important information about consumer issues can be found on the Department’s website: www.ct.gov/dcp.
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Local Program Empowers Parents
The Parent Leadership Training Institute is a statewide initiative created to train, inspire and empower parents to become effective advocates for children. Through PLTI’s unique adult learning experience, you explore your passions, strengths, beliefs and ideas. Then, you work to develop interpersonal and public communications skills, as well as your understanding of government, media and civic relations.
The training that I received as a member of the Parent Leadership Training Institute is invaluable. I began PLTI a bit skeptical and uncertain as to the benefits of such a program. My primary reason for submitting my application was to represent my children’s best interest in our new community of Meriden. My children and I had recently relocated to Meriden and I wanted to understand “how” to navigate the inner workings of the school system. Since my graduation from PLTI (Class of 2008) I have finally come to the realization that I have received far more than I could have ever imagined. I am now familiar with our state’s legislative processes. In addition, I am an advocate for positive change as it impacts the areas of education, health and my community. Hence, I have learned to lend a voice to issues that affect everyone. The proof of my learned skills is evident in the practicum, most commonly known as “the community project”, of which all participants in the PLTI had to complete. This project incorporated many of the skills that were developed in the training. My community project involved increasing the public bus transportation in Meriden. I have certainly become aware of the importance of the “art of persuasion” and the realization that you must simply tell your story but gear it toward your audience. My greatest surprise was “how” supportive our legislators are of our becoming more civic savvy. If I had a question, they were willing to consider, recommend and take action on it. Prior to PLTI, I had always thought of our legislators as “those people at the capitol”. Now, I view them as fellow citizens that are focused on addressing the issues that challenge our communities. PLTI has reinforced my belief that a person should be a part of the solution not just the problem. It’s easy to just simply complain about the issues that plague our community, however, it takes determination to help do something about it. We are all natural change agents whether we are aware of it or not. However, PLTI’s training has provided the environment to allow my natural abilities to flourish. If you are interested in bringing your concern to the forefront, enroll into the Parents Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) program.
Elisa Hundley 2008 PLTI Graduate
This is my personal story:
My name is Daisy Olivo and I am a PLTI graduate from the 2008 class. My personal story is that since being part of the Parent Leadership Training Institute I have learned allot about politics and what can be done to change a situation. My current position in the community is that I am like a light house. I do and create fundraisers and community events throughout Meriden. I have to know everything about resources and events, not only in Meriden but in the surrounding towns. I thought I knew everything but I stand corrected. I am currently involved in several committees and we are trying to make a difference and improve our committee. I am putting together a Teen Girls support group that will focus on teen girl issues. I have a couple of girls from all of the Meriden schools who will come together and speak on different topics. Come September these girls will have the policy and procedures for embarking in the first Diverse Teen Girl Leadership Program. Topics of concern would be diversity, education, discrimination, boys, teen rape, teen domestic violence, how to reach your parent and much more. These are just a few things that I am empowering the girls to speak on and allow them to coordinate the group. I will just sit back and see it unfold and give the girls guidance in this venture. I will have the girls involved in community events and recruitment for the kick off which will be in September 2008.
I would like to thank all of the facilitators in my class of 2008 and speakers for encouraging me and giving me the knowledge that I know have to make this happen.
Daisy Olivo 2008 PLTI Graduate
For more information contact: Children First Imitative, PLTI office at 203-630-3566 / or apply online for
January, 2009 classes at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org
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Castle Bank is Moving Up (town)!
Castle Bank and Trust Company recently announced it is planning to relocate its main office as well as its 852 East Main Street Branch office to 1295 East Main Street on the corner of Research Parkway. This move is a terrific opportunity for Castle Bank as it will provide a better facility and location for our customers. The new location will provide additional services for both business and consumer customers by allowing the bank to offer safe deposit boxes as well as the convenience of a new drive up ATM.
The relocation will involve 11 of the bank’s executive, operations and commercial lending staff currently located at 100 Hanover Street as well as 7 employees currently staffing the 852 East Main Street Branch. The Branch located at 100 Hanover Street will continue to provide banking services to Castle Bank’s west side and downtown customers.
Castle Bank will continue to carry on the community banking tradition for the citizens of Meriden.
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The End of the World, or Not
Nick Thomas
By now, you’ve probably heard what mischief the Swiss are up to these days. They have built, and are about to turn on, the world’s most powerful atom-smasher to study the building blocks of the universe.
We’re talking an investigation of dark matter, extra dimensions, string theory, subatomic particles, and even the ever elusive Higgs boson. (If you’re curious what that is, it’s a hypothetical massive scalar elementary particle - just wanted to clear that up). Call me cautious, but when a country can’t even make cheese without holes in it, I’m worried what’s going to happen when they flip this baby on in August.
Seems there is a chance that this machine (known as the Large Hadron Collider - as opposed to the portable Small Hadron Colliders you can buy through mail-order from Lands End) could malfunction just a tad. So are we talking about fusing out a few villa toasters in the Alps? Blowing out the street lights in downtown Geneva? Melting down the European power grid? Nope. How about spawning a black hole that could swallow up the entire Earth.
Not that that would necessarily be a bad thing. If it means I don’t have to listen to any more smarmy, election-year political rhetoric for another four months, it might just be worth it. But fear not. The experts say that the chances of the Earth being vaporized are about the same odds as winning Lotto. Is that supposed to be reassuring? Generally, when it comes to total, universal, planetary meltdown, a probability of ZERO might be a little more comforting.
Of course, this isn’t the first time the possibility of a world-destroying, cataclysmic event has been raised. Over the centuries, various nutty characters have predicted something like this would happen, even without the aid of the ingenious Swiss. Many of these world-ending prognostications had their origin in religious doctrine which, for some reason, often seems to attract leaders who delight in making depressing predictions of Armageddon.
Let’s examine the case of New Yorker William Miller who - modest man that he was - founded the Millerite Church back in the 1800s, and predicted the end of the world would come on April 3, 1843. When it didn’t, he tried again for July 7; he struck out a third time on March 21, 1844. Finally, on October 22 the same year, the Earth held together once more, much to Rev. Miller’s annoyance.
Oddly enough, despite his failures, Miller was revered by many of his Millerite groupies, which is a bit hard to fathom. I mean, if you’re going to follow someone who claims he can predict the end of the universe, at least wait until the guy gets the date right before you begin worshiping him. It seems some of the Millerites were, in fact, disenchanted with their doom and gloom leader, and formed a splinter group: the Miller Lites. They were a happier, more relaxed bunch.
Along these lines, of course, we all hope the predictions of the atom-smasher-induced demise of the Earth are exaggerated and that if something does go wrong, it will more than likely just take out Norway. “Obviously, there is nothing to worry about,” one of the scientists in charge of the project confidently predicted, as he boarded a plane to spend the summer in Tasmania.
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(Andy, I know you are a busy fellow, so don't answer this email.) In response to your email to me, things do seem to be unfair at times for our struggling middle-class people who are not quite poor enough to qualify for a damn thing. I do complain, don't get me wrong, but I know this -- the United States of America is the best place in the whole world to live! And I do not for one second take that for granted. I feel terrible about the children, who are born into abject poverty in other countries, for their parents also, but I don't live there, and I am thankful, ever so thankful, that God chose me to be born in the USA. There are beliefs out there that a child's spirit in heaven decides where they will be born before they are born. There are reasons for this. If one believes in reincarnation, there are always more lessons to be learned. In one life we may be rich, and in another poor; famous in one; no one in particular in another. I try very hard to approach life on a day-to-day basis and not worry inordinately about the future. I don't know what it holds. I don't have a crystal ball. I do know that this paper serves a purpose. Perhaps it is on a somewhat small playing field in the spectrum of this great country, but for all of those people who contribute to this paper and for all of those who read this paper, where would we be able to post our stories, our joys, our griefs, our comments, our views or read about them if it were not for what you have created for all of us? When I thought one day, What would it be like if The People's Press were not here anymore?, I was taken aback by my own thoughts about that. Where would I send my stories to? What would it be like not to read the great columns that appear monthly, like Gregory Simpson's "Sheltering An Animal's Perspective," "The Mayor's Corner," Dorothy Gonick's "Nature As A Mirror," Bobbie Vosgien's "Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties," and the regular contributors who send in great stories, especially the old-timers like Francis W. Lappert? I am grateful for this paper. I have been given so many opportunities over the last seven years or so (I have lost count of the years, actually) to write stories for this paper, whether they were stories about the town, the mayor, a doll store (Peggy's Porcelains Doll Boutique) , "Paula's Place," my old neighbors on Simpson Avenue, my cat Babe ("The Last 23 Days"), "Raising The Flag On Iwo Jima," the Castle Bank in Meriden, a tribute to my friend Paula Cella ("You Weren't Supposed To Go"), "Where's The Beef?" about a dairy industry here in town (Cella Brothers), "My Mother's Voice" and my piano, "Walking Through The Fire," "The Cat Who Couldn't Play," and just too many stories to remember at this point. This paper got me to write again, something I hadn't done in many, many years. I was so very grateful that I wrote the story about Simpson Avenue when I did, and was it a coincidence? "To All My Friends On Simpson Avenue - This One's For You!" It was in the March 2007 edition. Gracia Parete passed on November 27th, 2007 (the day after my birthday), at age 98 and a half! I saw her children and grandchildren at the wake and neighbors I had known on Simpson Avenue. Gracia was my landlady before the house was sold, and I had known her since 1990. So many people at that wake spoke to me about The People's Press article and how much they appreciated it. Gracia spoke only Italian, but I was assured that the story was read to her and translated into Italian, and she loved it. Thank you, Andy. You just never know when you will touch someone with your words, and you have given me this opportunity I might never have had had it not been for this paper. I know it is hard work to pay the bills, and it is for all of us, but please keep this paper going. (It's okay if you want to delete that sentence.) I appreciate, truly, what you have given to this community of ours. It started out small, but look how it has grown! Could you have imagined it? Gratefully yours, Barbara Sherburne. barndt49@yahoo.com
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Medical Transportation for Meriden Seniors
The City of Meriden Advisory Board on Aging is currently publicizing transportation resources for Meriden senior citizens who are going to medical appointments. Information is being sent to medical offices, churches and other common community organizations. The Board has identified the following medical transportation options for Meriden seniors. You may wish to clip this article to keep for future reference. Please call the number(s) listed for the service you desire.
1. Meriden Senior Citizens Center (237-3338). Transportation for Meriden residents aged 55 and over to medical appointments in Meriden. 24-hour advance notice required. Funded by the City of Meriden, the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and the CT Dept. of Transportation. No fee for the service, contributions accepted.
2. American Red Cross, Wallingford/Meriden branch (265-6721). Transportation to out-of-town (outside Meriden) medical appointments. One week advance notice requested. Partially funded by grants from the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and United Way of Meriden and Wallingford. No fee, contributions accepted.
3. Northeast Transportation Co. (ADA Paratransit Program) (1-800-441-8901). Transportation to medical appointments in Meriden and Wallingford. Riders must complete an application to verify that a disability makes it difficult to use the fixed bus route. Fee charged.
4. American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345). Volunteer drivers provide transportation for cancer patients to medical appointments. Three business days advance notice is requested.
5. Meriden Transit District (235-6851). Fixed route local bus service in Meriden with connections to Wallingford, Middletown, New Britain and New Haven. Special fare for senior citizens aged 65 and over with Medicare card or Transit ID card.
The Meriden Advisory Board on Aging meets monthly at the Meriden Senior Center, 22 West Main St., Meriden. Please call the Center at 237-0066 for questions about the Board's activities.
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Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet
By Barb Sherburne
Would you believe I picked my very first tomatoes on July 11th? That was early this year. What a change from mid-August last year. I have picked about nine tomatoes so far. Yum. I ate most of them right in the garden, not bothering to go home first. Today is July 22nd. I have also been picking cucumbers, but a strange thing happened this year - some of my cucumbers ripened in a yellow color. They were not rotten, but they just ripened as yellow instead of green. I would have to do some research to find out why.
I picked two zucchini at my garden at home, but nothing else there yet. The cucumbers are doing a good job climbing up the trellis, so that is working out well. I think I will have yellow squash very soon. That's at home.
Back at the Community Garden, I must have plucked out at least 50 cleomes. They emerged late and were just encompassing everything, miles away from where I had them last year. I left a few here and there, but they were everywhere. I hate to "kill" plants, but they would certainly have done away with the cukes and other vegetables had I not pulled them out. My corn, for the second year in a row, is not doing well. I don't know if it's the seed I used, but they did not get very tall, shot up the top part of the plant, which turned brown, the silk turned brown also, and I doubt I'll get any corn. Next year I will buy a different brand of seed.
As for the artichoke experiment, I think I planted them too close together. They are still alive, but it is not looking like they will form any fruit this year. I am not sure if it takes two years or not to do so, but, so far, no artichokes. A "volunteer" sunflower emerged next to the artichokes, and I left it there. Meanwhile the particular brand of sunflower seeds I bought this year are producing the slowest and shortest growing sunflowers I have ever seen in my life. There are sunflowers in various parts of the Community Garden that are about 10 feet tall. I think mine are about two feet tall. The lilies are all doing well, and I have yet to know if the Black-Eyed Susans can compete with all that are around them. You would have to see this garden to understand. There is barely a place to walk in it. Very crowded. The basil is doing great, and I already made a batch of pesto, and it was very tasty. I am expecting lots of tomatoes to be coming forth in the next few weeks, but am so disappointed that a six-pack I bought was mismarked. I have no cherry tomatoes this year, which are a favorite of mine. This will be the first time in like 10 years that I will have no cherry tomatoes, which is a bummer for me. So far the tomatoes I have picked are a medium size, and I have no idea what they are, but they taste good, and I guess that's the important part. The marigolds and zinnias look gorgeous, and they will fill out a lot in the coming weeks. Actually, if you were to visit my garden at the Wallingford Community Garden, it would probably appear to be mostly flowers, but really, I do have vegetables there too. I think I need a bigger garden. My best wishes to all of you who are gardening, and happy watering! There is nothing like getting a forecast for seven days in a row of rain and not getting one drop. That's why I water just about every day, and not to mention pulling thousands of weeds. There is some work involved for sure, but it is worth it, at least to me. barndt49@yahoo.com
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True Treasures
By Diana Lewis
Chapter 2
Jonathan found Elizabeth at the grave site again when the wagons were starting to leave.
"We have to leave, Beth." he said gently.
" I can’t," answered Elizabeth, with tears in her eyes.
"I know, Hon, I don’t want to either, but we have to come on." He gently put his arm around her and led her to the wagon. He helped her up and he climbed in. They pulled in line with the wagons after the last one passed. Elizabeth kept looking back with tears in her eyes. Jonathan couldn’t comfort her because he was driving the wagon, but he took her hand and kissed it. She gave him a weak smile. She rode for a while and she asked Jonathan to stop so she could walk for a while, which he did. She fell in step with the women and children who were walking but she stayed mostly by herself.
Then a woman with brown hair, tied back into a bun and she wore a brown calico dress, walked up and started walking beside her.
"You know he’s in a better place," starting a conversation.
"What do you mean? He’s back there in an unmarked grave. How can he be anywhere else?" asked Elizabeth sharply.
"He’s not suffering anymore and he’s probably having the time of his life where he is."
"I don’t understand what you are saying," answered Elizabeth. "Who are you anyway?"
"I’m sorry. I am Rebecca Chambers, and your son is in heaven with Jesus."
"Oh, come on, there is no such place and this Jesus is a myth."
"No, He’s not, He is real and He is in heaven right now at the right hand of The Father God and your son is there with Him."
"I don’t believe you. Please just leave me alone. I want to be alone."
"Please, you and your husband come by our wagon tonight after supper and I’ll show you that He is real and your son is there with Him." Elizabeth looked at the woman wearily. She ran off toward their wagon and Jonathan stopped to let her get on.
"What’s the matter, Beth?" asked Jonathan. Elizabeth was in tears. "What did that woman say to you?"
"She said that our son was in heaven with Jesus. Can this be true?"
"Well, it could be possible. My father used to read us the Bible and it teaches that when a person dies, some go to heaven."
"Is it possible that he’s there and he’s not suffering anymore and he’s having the time of his life like this woman said? She wants us to come over and she said she would prove it tonight after supper."
"Well, I guess it is possible, but I never thought too much of the Bible.."
"I always thought those stories were myths. At least, that’s what my mother used to say."
"I really don’t know, Beth. I don’t know whether to believe them or not."
"Shall we go find out?" she asked.
"If you want to," answered Jonathan.
"I don’t know," she answered.
"Well, we can decide later," she nodded.
They drove for about another hour and they stopped for the noon meal. They rested for about an hour and they were on the road again until dust. Jonathan had to fix one of the wheels on the wagon that night so they didn’t get to go visit the Chambers that evening. He and Jake were busy most of the evening to have it ready by morning. Elizabeth retired early. She went to sleep thinking about her son.
When Jonathan came to bed it was late. Elizabeth was dreaming and talking in her sleep. Her son was running towards and she could not get to him. She started screaming and Jonathan woke her up.
"Beth, wake up, you’re dreaming, Wake up!" he said quietly, while he was gently shaking her. She woke up all out of breath. She kept breathing trying to get her breath. Jonathan waited patiently for his wife. When she was able, she started telling him about the dream.
"I don’t know what to tell you, Darling, just that it was just a dream. Our son is gone. He will never come back to us. I know it hurts you.. It also hurts me. We need to grieve about this, but go on as well. We will have other children, Beth. They won’t take his place but we will love them just as much. He put his hand on her chin and pulled her to him with a kiss.
"Now let’s some sleep, we will need to get up soon. Jake will be banging on the wagon at 5:00." He took her in his arms and they lay down and went to sleep. Elizabeth didn’t dream this time.
Home Country
Slim Randles
When Harley Jacobsen came into Doc’s office the other day for his physical - you know, the one his wife, Gladys, insists on from time to time - it was a treat for Doc.
Harley is one of Doc’s favorite people. Harley is a farmer. Not a young farmer, but a solid farmer. A 24/7 farmer. It is said in coffee-drinking circles – and we have several here – that ol’ Harley can make hair grow on a bald head and wheat grow on rocks.
When he’d been thumped and bumped and listened to and pumped up and partially drained, Harley asked Doc for the verdict.
“Not bad at all for someone your age, Harley,” Doc said, grinning. “But you look tired, so my advice is to take some time off and go fishing or take Gladys to the beach. Something fun. Relaxing.”
“Can’t right now, Doc,” Harley said. “Plowing summer fallow.”
“Well, how about later on?”
“There’s harvest you know, and the trees will have to be pruned before winter, and then the winter wheat will go in. Have to overhaul the wheel tractor this winter and add on to the equipment shed, and then it’ll be time to plant.”
“Harley, I want to see you get some rest,” Doc said. “You need two weeks with nothing to do. Get someone to help with the farm and go do something fun.”
“For two weeks?” Harley asked.
“Two full weeks, Harley.”
“Doc, I just can’t do the job in two weeks. Took 60 years of farming to get this tired.”
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Brought to you by the dogs and cats at your local animal shelter. Pay them a visit and take home a new best friend.
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Did you know???…….What I have learned as a hospice volunteer!
Almost 10 months ago, I finished Connecticut VNA’s hospice volunteer training…………and my life changed in ways I could never have anticipated. I have had the privilege to sit with some amazing beautiful people, people who are on their final journey, people who have so much to share, and so much to teach. I would like to share with you some of the things I have learned as s hospice volunteer, and that exemplify how hospice is truly all about living!
Hospice means giving up hope– this is not true!
Hospice is all about living each day fully. Hospice adds quality and dignity to every day. Too many people are not referred to hospice early enough in their illness to really benefit from all the hospice interdisciplinary team has to offer. The earlier someone begins receiving hospice care, the greater the benefits not only to the patient – but to their loved ones as well.
Hospice is a philosophy of care…..
That provides care wherever a patient calls home. This can be in the comfort of your home, nursing homes, residential care facilities and assisted living facilities. I have visited many people in nursing homes and have been impressed with the skill of the care given in local facilities.
Hospice is only for cancer patients….not true! Hospice is for anyone with an end stage disease.
This includes congestive heart failure, dementia, lung disease, neurological diseases, end stage liver or renal disease or any number of other end stage conditions. A physician needs to certify that the patient has a terminal illness….but anyone can make the call to ask about hospice and request a hospice evaluation.
I have seen many patients whose family or physicians waited until only days or hours remained before they were referred to hospice care. I often wish these patients had started receiving hospice care months earlier – to truly benefit from all hospice has to offer.
Hospice is for the patient only…...not true!
Hospice provides comfort and emotional support for the patient and their loved ones. Support not only during the illness – but for 13 months following the patient’s death. Patients are comforted by knowing that their loved ones will receive the support and comfort they need.
One of the many joys I receive from being a hospice volunteer is the gift of being present for my patient’s and their families. Knowing that by me visiting they may take a few hours and attend to personal business, shopping or day to day tasks… knowing that their loved one is being cared for – that there is a hospice team supporting them and providing excellent professional care – physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Many times family members cannot be with their loved – and knowing that a volunteer will visit – sets their mind at ease……they know I’ll be there – and they know I care….
I can only speak from my personal experience with the Connecticut VNA, a non-profit organization, when I say you will never find a greater group of staff and volunteers whose ONLY reason for doing what they do is to provide quality care at end of life. Volunteers provide a loving presence - through their visits, sharing gifts of music, visiting with a registered therapy animal – just to bring a smile to someone’s day.. If you have ever considered volunteering, I would urge you to consider becoming a Connecticut VNA hospice volunteer. It doesn’t require a lot of time and what you receive from being a volunteer is priceless. Knowing that I made a difference – that I brought a little sunshine to someone’s day or lightened a burden – even just for a little while – is a feeling beyond description. I offer my time and talents – just to help…
Do you have questions about hospice care? Do you have a loved one that could benefit from hospice services? Do you want your loved ones to be surrounded by professional, knowledgeable caring people at the end of life? Do YOU want to become a Connecticut VNA hospice volunteer?
I encourage you to call
Connecticut VNA
203-679-5300
– it will change your life forever.
Jim
Connecticut VNA Hospice Volunteer
Did You Know?
Summer vacations have long been a tradition in the United States. Perhaps because of school being out for several months during the summer season or the casual attitude summer weather promotes, many people choose to take their vacations in the summertime. While that vacation time is valued, compared to other countries it's miniscule. According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), among the more developed countries the United States lags far behind some of its counterparts when it comes to the average number of vacation days each year. While the average Italian citizen enjoys 42 vacation days per year, in the United States workers enjoy less than one-third of that total. The average American worker gets just 13 vacation days each year, exactly half the number the country's neighbor to the north, Canada, enjoys each year. Following Italy at the top of the list are France (37 days), Germany (35 days) and Brazil (34 days). Joining the U.S. near the bottom of the listare Korea and Japan, both of which average 25 days of vacation per year.
Did You Know?
Fireworks are known and loved all over the world. They're often a part of festivals and holidays, adding excitement and spectacle. The invention of fireworks is credited to the Chinese. The first fireworks were actually green bamboo that were thrown into fires to scare spirits away in ancient China, called "pas chuk." It is believed that gunpowder was discovered accidentally by a Chinese alchemist who mixed sulphur and salt peter (potassium nitrate) over a fire. The Chinese name for gunpowder is "huo yao" (fire chemical).
“Sheltering an Animal’s Perspective”
by
Gregory M. Simpson
The number one reason why someone donates to a charity is simple. It’s because he or she is asked. So, I’m asking.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, there are 48 municipal shelters, 15 private shelters, and another 145 non-sheltered animal welfare groups in Connecticut. They all have one thing in common. They all could use your support.
Americans love their companion animals. For 2007, Americans were expected to spend 48.7 billion dollars on them, according to Packaged Facts, a consumer research company. This exceeds the gross national product of about 120 nations. Yet there are thousands more animals awaiting homes in Connecticut’s animal shelters.
A donation to a shelter of unrestricted funds is always appreciated as it allows an animal welfare group to spend as needs arise. Restricted funds, such as for spay/neuter, are also gratefully accepted, as an estimated 80% of the kittens born annually come from feral and stray cats. Another way to contribute is to remember a shelter in one’s will and estate planning.
The greatest gift of all is to give of oneself. Volunteers see their efforts as labors of love and the opportunities to volunteer are as varied as one’s talents, interests, and available time. Animal welfare groups need adoption counselors and volunteers for animal care, rescue, dog walking, cat socialization, transportation, and grooming. Volunteers are also needed for fund raising, such as grant writing, soliciting at stores, and organizing events. Also helpful are office tasks such as phone work, keyboarding, filing, web-site maintenance and correspondence. Animal shelters will train on these responsibilities. Or organize your own tag sale or bake sale to benefit a shelter. Foster homes are always needed and invaluable, especially for non-sheltered animal welfare groups. Regardless of what you choose, become a dedicated volunteer who commits to consistently and competently fulfill a responsibility.
Public education is another vital role. Perhaps your contribution can be to educate through the media. Write a letter to the editor, an Op. Ed. piece, or a magazine or newspaper article. Place your name on an e-mail list to be alerted for legislative or other advocacy. Appear on radio or television, organize a petition drive, or help publish a shelter’s newsletter.
Set a good example for youth. Research has shown that young Americans will volunteer if they have a parent who does. Seeing respected peers volunteer is also motivating for teenagers.
If you would like to donate something tangible to an animal shelter, consider the following: dog and cat food or treats, cat litter, blankets, towels, cat and dog toys or bedding, dog collars and leashes, latex gloves, kitten milk replacement (KMR), and heating pads. For a shelter’s laundry and cleaning needs, consider giving laundry detergent, bleach, fabric softener, paper towels, garbage bags, tissues, laundry baskets, hampers, disinfectant spray, and dryer sheets. A shelter’s office could use postage stamps, envelopes, copy paper, and other stationery supplies.
True concern for animals needs to be demonstrated through commitments of time and donations. Volunteer work and contributions are at the core of charity work for animals. Shelters could not survive without both.
In the 1700s, Connecticut’s Noah Webster defined a volunteer as a person who enters any service of his own free will. So, I’m asking. The animals in shelters all want the same things that each of us wants – to love and be loved, have a home, and live a life without pain and misery. They do not ask for much, but give unconditional love in return. Will you please help a Connecticut animal shelter through volunteering or making a contribution today? Homeless animals are waiting. To find a shelter or rescue organization near you, visit petfinder.com or pets911.com. Thank you in advance for whatever support you can provide.
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.
EarthTalkDear EarthTalk: How is it that hydrogen can replace oil to run our cars? There seems to be a lot of controversy over whether hydrogen can really be generated and stored in such a way to be practical? -- Stephane Kuziora, Thunder Bay, ON
The jury is still out on whether hydrogen will ultimately be our environmental savior, replacing the fossil fuels responsible for global warming and various nagging forms of pollution. Two main hurdles stand in the way of mass production and widespread consumer adoption of hydrogen “fuel cell” vehicles: the still high cost of producing fuel cells, and the lack of a hydrogen refueling network.
Reining in manufacturing costs of fuel cell vehicles is the first major issue the automakers are addressing. While several have fuel cell prototype vehicles on the road—Toyota and Honda are even leasing them to the public in Japan and California—they are spending upwards of $1 million to produce each one due to the advanced technology involved and low production runs. Toyota hopes to reduce its costs per fuel cell vehicle to around $50,000 by 2015, which would make such cars economically viable in the marketplace. On this side of the Pacific, General Motors plans to sell hydrogen-powered vehicles in the U.S. by 2010.
Another problem is the lack of hydrogen refueling stations. Major oil companies have been loathe to set up hydrogen tanks at existing gas stations for many reasons ranging from safety to cost to lack of demand. But obviously the oil companies are also trying to keep customers interested in their highly profitable bread-and-butter, gasoline. A more likely scenario is what is emerging in California, where some 38 independent hydrogen fuel stations are located around the state as part of a network created by the non-profit California Fuel Cell Partnership, a consortium of automakers, state and federal agencies and other parties interested in furthering hydrogen fuel cell technologies.
The benefits of ditching fossil fuels for hydrogen are many, or course. Burning fossil fuels like coal, natural gas and oil to heat and cool our buildings and run our vehicles takes a heavy toll on the environment, contributing significantly to both local problems like elevated particulate levels and global ones like a warming climate. The only by-product of running a hydrogen-powered fuel cell is oxygen and a trickle of water, neither of which will cause any harm to human health or the environment.
But right now 95 percent of the hydrogen available in the U.S. is either extracted from fossil fuels or made using electrolytic processes powered by fossil fuels, thus negating any real emissions savings or reduction in fossil fuel usage. Only if renewable energy sources—solar, wind and others—can be harnessed to provide the energy to process hydrogen fuel can the dream of a truly clean hydrogen fuel be realized.
Stanford University researchers in 2005 assessed the environmental effects of three different hydrogen sources: coal, natural gas, and water electrolysis powered by wind. They concluded that we’d lower greenhouse gas emissions more by driving gasoline/electric hybrid cars than by driving fuel cell cars run on hydrogen from coal. Hydrogen made using natural gas would fare a little bit better in terms of pollution output, while making it from wind power would a slam-dunk for the environment.
Davy’s Goods: Open 7 days a week.
When I was seven years old, our family moved into a house that at one time had been a coal miner’s log cabin. Coal mines abounded in and around the area where our house was located. The rustic abode had been refurbished over the past years, but it still held the echoes of the long-ago craftsman’s labor. It was an impressive house to behold, but had none of the modern-day utilities. At night we had to use kerosene lamps to help prevent us from bumping into what scanty furnishings we owned.
We had to keep our meager foodstuffs tucked away in a springhouse to keep the things from spoiling. Our drinking water came from the cool spring that coursed its way through that old springhouse. I can still taste that pure mountain water, cold on my lips, even today.
There was a general store about three-quarters of mile down the road from our house. My mother would take the four of us (my two sisters, my brother and me) along with her for a walk down that old dusty road to pick up a few things at Davy’s.
One Sunday morning my dad said to me, “Take this can down to Davy’s, and have him fill it with kerosene.” He handed me a shiny new quarter, and reminded me that the can would hold a gallon of kerosene. “That’ll be 15 cents…you can buy something for yourself with the 10 cents left over.” I took the can, and with thoughts of that candy-counter dancing through my head, I jauntily rambled down the dirt road that led straight to Davy’s. It took about 20 minutes to traverse that well-worn coal miner‘s trail. I stood there waiting for the kind old gentleman to fill that can, and when he had finished, he turned to me and asked if I wanted anything else. My wistful eyes confessed my desire of what peeked out through the sparkling glass case of penny candy.
“Yes sir. My dad said I can spend the 10 cents change on myself.” Bouncing over to where my heart’s longing resided, I took a deep breath, and without hesitating stated, “I want two of those root beer barrels, two sticks of Blackjack gum, one piece of licorice…let’s see now…that’s…hmmm, two for a penny…err…How much do I have left, Davy?”
Yeah, that was one of many happy Sundays I’ve relished over the years. I, and I’m sure there are a lot of folks besides me, wish it were still possible to walk into a little corner store like Davy‘s, choose from a myriad of tantalizing sweets, and then with a firm grip wrapped around the paper bag filled with those treasures…put a dime on the counter, and drift out of the store on a magic carpet.
IT TAKES A LOT OF FRIENDS TO MOVE A BOOKSTORE
By Phyllis S. Donovan
Thanks to a cadre of loyal volunteers, the Friends of the Library Bookstore reopened in our new location at 35 West Main Street in downtown Meriden on July 14. The move was completed in seven weeks of intensive labor by a handful of Friends to whom I, as store manager, will be eternally grateful…especially to my co-chair and chief organizer, June Hadley, and to Gil Alwang and Joe Giannetti who laid out the floor plan for the new space, moved all our bookcases and set them up and bolted them down in the new place.
Our old bookstore had operated successfully on the corner of Colony and West Main in downtown Meriden for six years. We all loved our spacious store, café and gift shop but when the rent got so high we weren’t realizing enough profit to give back to the library (our primary mission), we had to look for a new home.
Our store relocation committee considered several options before finally choosing a recently vacated space, owned by Ross Gulino, at 35 West Main Street, barely half a block away. I fell in love with the space at first sight. Although a bit smaller in square feet, I could see us settling in quite comfortably there.
Once decided, we had to deal with the overwhelming logistics of selling off excess inventory, packing up at least 10,000 books, tearing down all the shelves and relocating everything up the street and into the new place…All of this depended on the willingness and hard work of a small but energetic group of volunteers, including the people who had been manning the store in shifts for all those years.
We started with three giant Saturday book sales in May, offering a whole grocery bagful of books for just $3. You’d be surprised at how many books a careful packer can squeeze into one of those small bags, often from 12 hard covers to over 20 paperbacks. A whole summer of reading for just three bucks, you can’t beat it.
The sales helped decimate our shelf stock but once we started packing up what was left, we still had to go out and scrounge boxes from area grocery and package stores to pack them in.
Have you ever tried moving boxes of books? They weigh a ton. I kept telling our people to be careful of their backs. Even with the use of two-wheel dollies, the job is daunting. The actual moving of the bookshelves and boxes of books took up the better part of the next two weekends using members’ SUVs and trucks supplied by Gerry Dion and. June Hadley’s son-in-law, Glenn Flanagan. Meanwhile June, her daughter, Beth Flanagan, and grandkids, Christine and Nick, gathered up everything else that was movable – from décor to office supplies -- to store in June’s garage while we got the store settled.
Once the bookcases were relocated, they had to be wrestled into place and bolted down, and wall shelves had to be reassembled and put up. This, while working around a mountain of boxes containing the books themselves. Gerry Dion and Al Mueller helped Gil and Joe in this phase of the move.
After the shelves were in place, we called in the sorters and shelvers to find room for all those books on one-third less shelf space. Since we were weeding and winnowing the collection to keep only the very best of the books, this required a lot of book knowledge. Where else to turn than once again to our former store staff. They responded selflessly. Some of them, like Linda Hamner, Marlene Bevacque, Barbara Cohen, our internet sales guru Jackie LaRochelle, and of course, chief organizer and volunteer coordinator June Hadley, showed up nearly every day for four weeks. It was as if we all had full time jobs!
Many others came to help when they could: early on, Beryl Letourneau and Amber Pinkerton, Kathy Berube, Dot Ritchie, Bea O’Brien and Winnie Leary, later Helen Lang and her son John (a godsend when it came to moving heavy boxes and shelves), Joan Dion, Jean and Tom Ryan, John Kenny, Mario Cavallo and Frank Ridley. While their husbands were busy relocating the shelves and bookcases, Ginger Alwang and Ann Giannetti also pitched in on the project. Even the Giannetti’s Springer spaniel, Candy, came in for several days to keep an eye on things and offer moral support while snoozing among the boxes.
Soon we had the project organized and operating in a very orderly fashion. Wherever floor space allowed, we tried to keep the shelf layout as close as possible to the old store to avoid confusion. All the boxes had been labeled as to contents (think “kitchen,” “bathroom,” “bedroom” and substitute “fiction,” “mystery,” “cookbooks,” “biography.”) Each volunteer chose a certain category of books to be their responsibility and worked to fill the shelves in that area with the best books available.
Duplicates and older book still in good condition were set aside to be offered on bargain tables out front (like the library’s 10-cent cart) and, if unsold, taken eventually to storage to await the Kiwanis next effort to relocate them to areas where good books are needed. (Not long ago, headed by Ed Murphy, they took two huge truckloads of our donated books to the Gulf States) Now, with floods, fires and tornados plaguing the mid- and western US, I’m sure all of those extra books will be put to good use.
As we settled in, we knew some of the furnishings and café equipment would have to go, especially since we will not have a café in the new store. (We’ll soon be inviting folks to bring in their coffee from Café Dolce next door and browse our collection.) Profits made from selling our excess furnishings and equipment have been added to funds made available to the library for special events such as the children’s summer reading program.
After the books were all shelved, June brought back the nicely refreshed greenery and decorations to soften the look of the store and on Monday, July 14, we once again opened our doors to the public. It had taken seven weeks of intensive labor by a small group of dedicated volunteers who all agree that every minute of our labor was well worth it.
Come in and see us at 35 West Main Street. We’re open from 9 to 5 Mondays through Thursday, 9 to 8 on Fridays and 10 to 2 on Saturdays. Our gently used books are available at very friendly prices…perfect for vacation and beach reading.
Even though we opened as soon as possible so eager patrons could come in and buy books, we are planning our official Grand Opening and ribbon cutting for September 12. That’s when we’ll all be able to relax and celebrate our enormous job well done.
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Good Old Sundays
By Carol Carbutti
The good old days brings to mind many images but one mention of the good old Sundays has me freeze framed in time at the immense kitchen table, Down The House as we affectionately called it. My mother was the oldest of fourteen children. She grew up in this seventeen hundreds colonial sea captains house in downtown Norwalk. It was the gathering place for the extensive family on Sundays after 12 o’clock Mass.
By one o’clock you scoped out your key position at the table after securing yourself some coffee and trying to sneak some home fries or hot stuff lingering in bacon fat. Everyone that was important in my life was there. If they weren’t there at the beginning of the festivities, they showed up near the end and stretched our good times. The kitchen door was never locked and its promised openness welcomed anyone.
We lingered for hours in many heated conversations about world events and I so miss those aunts, uncles and cousins who were great listeners and conversation catalysts. No one rushed off because there was no place to go but home for the next big Sunday supper meal. I always knew what that meal was going to be because I’d wake up to the smell of garlic, basil , and meatsballs frying in the huge sauce pan and simmering for hours. This fantastic blend of old world recipes carried to America by my ancestors smothered our pasta and the smells produced the delicious memory of last Sundays meal. It seems apparent that food is an intregal part of my trips through memory lane.
Down The House did have central heat but only central to the livingroom. Therefore the kitchen on cold wintry days had only its six burner stove to heat it. The swinging kitchen door leading to the dining room would remain closed to hold in the heat but if that wasn’t enough three or four of us would back up our fannies to the stove to roast a bit. If I was really lucky, I could convince six or eight of my family members to get a German Pinocle game going that lasted hours and produced waves of laughter.
When we managed to stay long enough, we would get invited to the dinner meal but we had to pay for that by participating in the rosary. My aunt would take the rotary phone off the hook and hang it on the curtain rod as we chose our quiet seat to meditate during the repetitious medley of prayer. From a child’s perspective the time spent on prayer was extremely long but the good times made it worth it.
It would be so wonderful to be invited for just one more old time Sunday breakfast and have the place full of all those wonderful people . The Norwalk historical society dismantled Down-The-House ten years ago and I’m told its being stored somewhere safely waiting for the right location to reassemble it. I long for those lingering Sundays when we didn’t have to go anywhere but be with your family and relate.
These memories give me warm feelings inside and threaten to encourage me to invite everyone over this Sunday for a brunch as we call it now. Although it’s not the same experience, I want to try to recapture it by nurturing family and friends through gatherings . Hopefully, my good old Sundays experiences has influenced my children and grandchildren to establish their traditions and the beat goes on…………
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A Beautiful but Surprising Summer Sunday -
By Janet Carroll Althouse
I remember one particular Summer Sunday when my two oldest girls were about 4 and 6 or maybe 5 and 7. We went to a park near our home with some other friends. There was a small creek running through this park and you know how children cannot resist playing in the water and using their imaginations to build dams and ever so many other interesting inventions. I even enjoy getting my hands and bare feet in a cool, clear stream on a hot summer day. But what was especially great about this creek was that it was filled with pollywogs. My girls were fascinated with them and whiled away the hours gathering them in whatever containers they could find. But, soon, too soon for them, the sun was slowly sliding toward the horizon and we had to leave and go home. So, they collected as many pollywogs as their father would allow them to have, and we headed home. The girls were in the back seat and had been told to sit down and not stand up. (This was before seat belts.) But being still excited from the days adventures they had a problem with sitting. Their father could sometimes be a little too spontaneous, to put it in polite terms, and as we were going through this small town, the car in front of us slammed on its brakes making it necessary for my husband to do the same, and since our youngest daughter was standing right behind him with a paper cup filled with pollywogs the back of his neck was the recipient of the cold, clammy and wriggling pollywogs. As you can imagine, this was somewhat of a surprise to him, to say the least. He jumped out of the stopped car, opened the back door, grabbed our daughter and proceeded to place a few swats to the area intended for them. Which, of course, brought tears, but not so much because the swats were painful, but because she lost her pollywogs.
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Who Do You Work For?
July always gets me to thinking. I put into perspective who I work for and who really pays my salary. You see, I work in the customer service industry and without the customer, I would be out of a job. Now this is a point I never forget because let’s face it, like everyone else I have bills to pay. In today’s economy my store fights with others for your business. What keeps my customers coming back? I hire for personality! My customers comment on their reasons for remaining “regulars”…”Your staff is so nice.” This makes me happy to hear. So why am I writing this?
July. That wonderful month when the heat is on, the flowers are in bloom, produce is “farm Fresh” fireworks are exploding and last but not least…Property Taxes are due. Now I don’t know about you but I receive the bill in the post and approach it with trepidation. How much can it possibly be? More than I want to pay! But pay I must and so to the tax office I go to pay the monies being extorted from my pocket. Yippee!
Why is it when I get to the desk I am always met by a cranky, hostile, public servant who has either NO personality, or is just plain rude? Since when does being a public servant give you “rude rights”? And God forbid if you are delinquent in your taxes…out comes the “open hostility” card. Shame on you. Judgment passed! You all know what I’m writing about. I have two words for all the town employees who feel they are so much higher on the food chain…”charm school”. I really don’t care what you think about all of us tax payers…keep your judgments and rudeness to yourself, put a smile on your face, and connect the money. Your paycheck comes from our tax dollars. Yes, indeed, YOU WORK FOR US! Get happier and kinder. It seems to have worked for the I.R.S.
Signed, I Know Who I Work For
Bobbie’s Bevy of Beauties
I think this is the time of year when most of the flowers are in full bloom. The hibiscus have begun to open up. With the way something munched on their leaves I wasn’t sure if I would have any flowers at all. But they survived and will give a very splendid display. They produced so many new plants this year that they were either given or thrown away. I couldn’t keep up with them. Half of the second round of rose buds became a delightful meal for the Japanese beetles. It’s been quite a few years since they have given me so much trouble. The black-eyed-Susan, and in my opinion one of the easiest and fastest reproducing perennials, did a turn about for the first time since I raised her. Some of them looked like their stem and leaves had been painted black. What an ugly looking mess. Told it was caused by the crazy weather we had this spring and summer. If any of you have this problem, when clean up time comes around, cut off all growth and dispose of it. Let’s get to the butterfly bush. Beginning to bloom and should do so until about the middle of October. So that means lots of pretty butterflies. All in all my gardens are filled to the brim and in splendid color.
I purchased an annual from the Dietrich Nursery which I never had before. I don’t believe it’s a new variety but one I had overlooked. Bought four of them. One went into a large planter and the other three into the ground. It’s name, Totally Tempted “Cuphea Llavea”. A mound of bright red flowers, 10-12 inches high, loves the sun and blooms continuously. Have put it on my favorite flower list.
Jimmy’s long awaited cucumbers are here. Three pickings so far. And outside of a couple he kept for himself they have been given away. And me, I’m waiting for the tomatoes and that first sandwich. Even though he put the triangular metal supports in the containers to hold up the plants, they have produced so many tomatoes that some of the stems still droop. Keep looking for the color to change from green to red.
The photo of the three tier planter shown here was originally a water fountain which no longer works. It was then given to me and I filled it with the red, pink and white begonias. A new variety of coleus is to the left, red and purple salvia in front and hosta in the back. It is one of my popular garden pieces and resides on the other side of the now non used fireplace. The other photo on the front cover is of the garden bed which is between the walk and fireplace as you enter the backyard through the gate on the north side. Begonia, portulaca, marigolds in the background, pink simplicity roses and lilies fill this area. Plus numerous decorative pieces. The frog next to the marigolds was brought home from Paris, France when our son, Keith, came to visit. This is one of my favorite beds. Constantly in bloom. Will have some more photos for the next issue.
Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien
Reverend George W. Perkins
Who was this man that helped shape Meriden’s history? He was a man of God, a law breaker, a humanist, a historian and a powerful speaker for the American right for justice and freedom for all. His versatility and dedication for freedom for all has been long forgotten. Many historians are not familiar with his live. It is time for history to be told so that he can take his rightful place in Meriden’s history.
Reverend Perkins was born in Hartford Connecticut on February 12, 1804. Does this date February 12, sound familiar? Perkins graduated from Yale University in 1824 and later graduated from Andover Theological Seminary in 1829.
The Congregational Church in Meriden issued a call to Rev. Perkins and he started his ministry at the Broad Street Church in 1841 and served until 1848. Later that year the growth of the congregation required a larger building. Some members of the church left the original building with Rev. Perkins and built a larger church on Colony Street. Other members of the original church remained at the building on Broad Street with the result that the Town of Meriden now had two congregational churches – the Center Congregational Church on Broad Street and the First Congregational Church on Colony Street.
During his career in Meriden, Rev. Perkins was engaged in abolitionist activities. He was very outspoken and was well known as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. This system was used to aid slaves in escaping from slavery to freedom in Canada. They traveled at night aided by members of the Underground Railroad who concealed them during the day. Other abolitionists aided them in their travel further north to freedom. This activity was illegal and a violation of federal law. The Fugitive Slave Law of 1793 stated that anyone convicted of violating this law would be liable for a fine of $1,000 and six months in prison plus civil damages of $1,000 for each slave lost by the owner. Rev. Perkins’ personal safety was threatened as well as his personal property for violence was quite common during this period of our history. On one occasion, Rev. Perkins successfully opposed the action of a sheriff from the Sough when he attempted to capture two escaped slaves that were living in Meriden. The sheriff returned to the South without the “property” claimed by a southern plantation owner due to Rev. Perkins efforts.
Rev. Perkins’ versatility became more evident when he wrote the first history of Meriden in 1849. “Historical Sketches of Meriden” has been used by historians ever since. His reason for this effort was explained in the preface of his book. “The compiler of the following pages, prepared a few historical sketches or reminiscences of Meriden as a substitute for a Thanksgiving sermon: for the dreary sight of empty seats, on those annual occasions in a house usually full, left him no heart to preach on that day. Quite to his astonishment, the hearers were enough interested in the sketches to ask for their publication with such additions as might be accessible.” Perkins was an author of other books and many of his sermons were published.
Rev. Perkins left Meriden in 1854 to accept a call from the First Congregational Church of Chicago. He also worked as a editor for a newspaper and he is known as one of the founders of the theological seminary in Chicago. His career and life in Chicago were tragically cut short for he died November 13, 1856. He always considered Meriden as his home and his body was returned to Meriden. The Perkins family plot is in the West Cemetery of Meriden. Many years later, when his gravestone became too worn to repair, the members of the First Congregational Church of Meriden replaced it with an appropriate monument inscribed with a sincere tribute to his memory.
Kenneth Cowing
Wallingford Center, Inc. Receives 2008 Best of Wallingford Award
U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON, D.C., June 25, 2008 – Wallingford Center, Inc. has been selected for the 2008 Best pf Wallingford Award in the Building Restoration & Preservation category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).
The USLBA ”Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)
U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington, D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
Dorothy Gonick
The Berkshire Blossom Film Festival had a 24-hour film challenge with the following parameters:
“Hey Jack, where’s the green?”
A local business establishment
An egg, a banana or a Twinkie.
Just for fun I chose to write a poem in those 24 hours with same parameters. Here it is.
GRAMPS ON THE GOLF LINKS
June 8, 1980 Dorothy Gonick
Hooray, hooray,
Gramp came to visit today!
I thought he’d say
“What d’you want to play?”
But what he said, was
“Hey Jack, Where’s the green?”
“The green?
What do you mean?”
“Golfing, my boy.
My clubs I’ve brought.
Go put on your cap--
The sun it’s so hot.”
Gramps handed me a club
Put a ball on the tee,
Helped me to swing
And we sent it with glee.
The sun was hot and
Soon I got weary,
Sat under a tree.
To munch on my Twinkie
Gramps kept swinging,
Sent the ball soaring high
Into the bushes
And out of our sight.
“Let’s go home” I called,
As he looked for the ball.
But Gramps searched long
Until, ‘Eureka!’ he called.
“It’s here in the shadows
A good long shot.”
Grasping his club
He said “Ready or not.”
Swung hard at the ball,
But heard a loud Splot!
Got egg on his trousers,
Surprised him a lot.
Two ducks came a flapping
Mid loud noisy quacking,
Struck him and nipped him
And sent him a rushing.
Swinging his club,
He ran toward the car,
Yelling, “Hey Jack,
Games over, I’ll not make par.”
Home from the green,
I told his sad tale,
Send family to laughing--
They giggled a gale.
South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department 100th Anniversary
South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating its 100 years of service to the Village of South Meriden and the City of Meriden.
During our Anniversary this year we will be celebrating with different events throughout the year. The City’s annual Independence Day Fire Works Display that was held on July 3rd was dedicated in the honor of our 100th Anniversary.
In August we will be celebrating by sponsoring a Carnival starting on Thursday August 21st thru Sunday August 24th located will either be Hanover School Property or Habershon Field. Location will be announced in the very near future.
On Saturday August 23rd from 10 am to 3:00 pm we will be having an open house at our fire station. During our open house we will be having extrication demonstration, fire extinguishing training and we will also have the State of CT children’s smoke house survival training trailer to demo safe exit during a fire emergency from your home. We will also have a visit from CT Army National Guard Fire unit that is based in East Lyme, CT with one of their fire apparatus.
The American Red Cross will also be at our station doing a blood drive. Please donate and give the gift of life.
Fund Raising Information
We also want to thank all of our financial supporters who have already donated to our annual fund raiser. We use these funds each year to help off set our small budget. We purchase additional fire fighting gear, Emergency Service supplies and use some for training. We are also looking to purchase an Emergency 4 wheel ATV (i.e. a Gator) to be used on the new Liner Trail and for the next phase of the trail proceeding from Dawson Beach parking lot & behind Wilcox and Platt High Schools to Coe Ave. With the over whelming popularity of the trail, and the trail not being readily accessible to fire apparatus and ambulances do to the safety/security barriers, having an equipped Emergency response 4 wheel ATV will allow us to reach people that might get injured or become ill in a timely fashion. This vehicle will be equipped with a stationary stretcher pad and a seat for an attendant. The price of the unit equipped with a trailer is approximately $15,000.
Donations can be sent to SMVFD, at PO Box 3030, Meriden, CT 06450
Fire Education & Home Safety Check
16 years ago we introduced our annual Home Safety Check for the residents of our fire district. We are still providing this Free service to all our neighbors. Please call us to set up an appointment. We will come to your home and make suggestions on safety items that could protect your family and your home. We will suggest the proper locations for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and types of fire extinguishers to have in the home and other emergency equipment that can be used in case of a fire or medical emergency.
Our fire education services are dedicated to developing fire prevention and education projects in the South Meriden community. Some programs involve pre-school and elementary school children while others involve adults and the elderly. Our department also helps businesses with fire extinguishing classes to educate employees in the event of a fire
Now its time for a several safety tips for our neighbors.
We hope you all have working smoke detectors in your home.
Working Smoke detectors save lives. Please make sure that you changed your batteries in the detectors. The best time to remember to change the batteries is when day light saving time comes. When you change your clocks back or forth change the batteries for safety. But if you did not have the opportunity to change the battery yet the today would be a good time also.
Also if you do not have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your home please purchase them. CO Emergencies just do not happen in the winter months. CO is a colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas that is produced by inefficient burning and incomplete combustion of fuel products in heating appliances, furnace, hot water heaters, and stoves. If you do not have efficient burning appliances in the home, over a period of time CO could be building up in the home which if unchecked could lead to medical conditions and even Death. Having your furnace cleaned and serviced each year will help keep the units running more efficiently. CO is the silent killer, please protect your family and yourself and purchase CO detectors for your home. CO is also produced by normal operation of your vehicles and comes out of the vehicles exhaust systems. Running your vehicle in the garage could cause CO to seep directly into the home.
Another health Tip.
If you can and have the time and the energy may be you can help a neighbor who is a little older or might be ill, give them a hand by mowing the lawn or cleaning their gutters. Please take caution when on ladders when cleaning gutters or cleaning windows. Make sure you are clear of all electrical lines when raising a ladder or lowing a ladder. It feels real good to be able to help others out during the year if you can help some one today.
Also with this rash of storms we have been having please be careful to take shelter inside a building during lighting storms. If you see wires down do not go near them call 911 for assistance and the fire department and or police department will come out to secure the area until CL&P can get to the scene.
We also want to thank all of our friends that have helping clean snow and ice a way from fire hydrants during the winter months, now we are also asking you to help by clearing weeds and grass away from the hydrants during the summer months. This allows the fire department during fire emergencies to hook up to fire hydrants quicker to gain access to a water supply if the fire is one of a substantial size; your help is really appreciated.
And one more health tip. If you are under a doctor’s care and take certain medications keep a list of these medications handy just in case you have the need to call 911 for during a medical emergency. Also with this list you might want to give a little history of any medical conditions that you also might have. These are important things for emergency responders to have just in case you are unable to respond to our questions when we arrive at your home. A good place to keep this information is in an envelope on you refrigerator and note that it is Medical Info.
Information about our application process:
Membership Information
After September 11, 2001 (911) we had a surge of memberships in Volunteer Fire Departments not only in CT but a cross the Nation. The numbers of volunteers has dropped in the last several years and we all need help to continue to serve our communities.
We are looking for some eager, hard working and committed volunteer recruits to join our department. South Meriden Vol. Fire Dept now is accepting applications. We are recruiting citizens from Meriden over the age of 18 who are High School Graduates in good physical health and have a clean police record. No fire fighting experience is necessary; we will train you and send you for training.
We also do recruitment for certified firefighters that live outside of Meriden as long as they can meet our bylaw requirements to do minimum one duty overnight crew a week plus meet our drill, meeting and squad duty requirements.
We are one of the only Volunteer fire stations in the State that have sleep-in crews at our fire station we presently cover 6 out of 7 nights. Our nightly in-house status allows us to service our customers you our neighbors quicker.
Being a volunteer fire fighter takes a lot of commitment and time.
Our members make a lot of personal sacrifices to belong to our department, but they get great satisfaction of being part of terrific tradition of saving lives and property. We train and work hard but we love serving and protecting our friends and visitors.
Applications can be picked up at our station at 31 Camp Street, South Meriden in the evenings. We are a DRUG FREE Department and we TEST all applicants.
Good-bye for now, talk to you soon
Keep Safe & Stay Healthy during the summer!
Keith Gordon, Chief of Operations South Meriden Fire Rescue
Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals
Dear Readers,
Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advise from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.
Let us all make this summer a summer filled with adventure.
June and Flora
Dear Housewives,
I am planning on going back to work 3 days a week. My mother will be watching our two children all day. They are 2 1/2 and 6 years old. My husband and I disagree as to whether or not to pay her. I think no, he thinks yes. What do you two Housewives think?
Pay Grandma or not in CT
JUNE: Dear Pay, I think you should definitely offer to pay her even though she probably would not accept. There are a few things to consider too. Does she need the money? Is she leaving a paying job to watch your kids for you? Even if she doesn't accept money for watching them you should leave money for them to do activities so she is not paying for movies, treats, lunches out or ice cream cones. Make sure that you get her a nice gift every so often as well to show your appreciation.
FLORA: You know if your Mom is in need of money. If she could use the extra cash but won't accept, buy her some groceries each week, cut her lawn, pay for her car to be serviced. Do pay for the necessary things in life and treat her to dinner every so often!
Dear Housewives,
It is summertime again and every year my husband and I disagree over sending our child to summer camp. She is shy and I feel she would benefit from doing other things with other kids. He feels she should be home with me and not feeling alone and shy at camp. He won the last two years but this year I am standing my ground. Can you help?
Poison Ivy in Meriden
FLORA: Hmmm....I wonder if hubby had some separation issues as a tyke... Could it be the cost of sending her to camp with you being home? Investigate and find if there is a half-day program for your daughter to try. If she is shy, don't push her into anything that can backfire. Ease into whatever you decide. Let us know in the fall what you and your husband decide to do.JUNE: Good question! This is the first year I have sent my oldest little June bug to camp and for the most part he liked it. He is on the shy side when he is with kids he doesn't know so it helped that I sent him to a camp where he had two classmates in his group. He ended up meeting some other nice kids and wasn't sitting around the house bored or fighting with his younger brother all day. I think you should send her as long as it doesn't cause her real physical anxiety. She may not be the type of kid who likes camp and she may not be ready. Your husband has a point but I think if she is old enough you should try it once. If she doesn't learn to love it find other ways for her to branch out. You could go to a play groups, invite friends over, take her out to museums and restaurants to be around strangers more. She may learn to loosen up around others. Good luck.
Summer Fun
Hey Flora, we have been enjoying the library programs this summer, how about you? We have also been going to the local parks to enjoy some good old fashioned playground fun.
Hey June, we have been enjoying the library too! We have been swimming, playing tennis and having some good old fashioned fun outside playing too!
THANKS FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!!!
By Bonnie Kent
This year is a new beginning for me and my family. My first born daughter is heading into high school and pretty soon will be on her own. As I watched my daughter graduate last month I took a look at how she grew into her own. How she gained her confidence, her courage and her sense of independence and I realized it was all the decision I made for her and all her teachers that throughout her life have taught and encouraged her that made my daughter into the young woman she is today.
Today I would like to thank certain members of out teaching society who do not receive the credit that they deeply deserve. You see, when my daughter was younger she was a perfectionist and had trouble with math and memorization. A tutor suggested she learn an instrument to help her with her memorization skills. My daughter chose violin and her 1st teacher was Miss Laura at Wintergreen. Miss Laura’s consistent training gave my daughter the knowledge to improve her memorization and develop a love for music.
Then with 4th grade came orchestra and Ms. Rossamondo (many of you might remember her father, Mr. Rossamondo, from the Wallingford School System) Ms. Rossamondo is very much like her father and the knowledge that she gives to her students is outstanding.
She was a very important part of my daughters learning to read music. Along with the other music teachers at Wintergreen; Mr. Steven and Ms. Morse. I have watched my children grow and have seen improvement in their reading skills, math skills and their ability to understand, adapt and to work in groups. These are the skills that MUSIC that’s right MUSIC has given my children.
For those of us who do not have the opportunity to explore music in our school systems there are private instructors and groups that support music and the knowledge that it gives our children. One that I have known for many years is Sandie Apuzzo. Many of our local kids know Miss Sandie and the Kindermusik classes or summer music programs she runs at her Key and Strings Studio or through private lessons that she gives in piano, violin and viola. Miss Sandie sees every day how much music impacts our lives and our ability to learn and communicate from infancy though our later years in life and she gives that to everyone of her students’ everyday. At one point in my daughters short life she had wanted to give up music and I suggested she try Miss Sandie and in a few short weeks I watched my daughter blossom into a very committed musician. Miss Sandie allows her to explore many different types of music and playing styles while also helping her to explore the world and history through music.
I would also like to thank Ms. Veronica Germain, the conductor for the Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra, who volunteers her time to conduct a very fine group of 25 musicians. I have watch this group from the beginning go from single musician each playing for themselves to a group that plays together as one. From our youngest member of our junior orchestra to our oldest member each is inspired to play their best and improve week by week as individuals and as a group. This orchestra is very unique as no one musician is every turned away whether it is for financial reason or talent. Those musicians who our not yet ready to join the full orchestra join as junior member who practice with the orchestra at their own pace and play during the performances until they are ready to join as a full member. These kids play because they love playing and this is the only place that some can play the music that they love due to their school system not being able to provide the music services these kids need.
So as I say thank you I encourage everyone in our area to support music and the arts in our towns and our cities by attending a performance at our schools, churches or local community groups. For those who think that music and arts are important to our youth in our communities sponsor a youth in a theatre production or in the local orchestra or community band. For those of you looking for a place to play contact your local community theatre or orchestra and join a great group of kids.. Or JUST SAY THANKS YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO to a music teacher, art teacher or drama coach.
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E. Haberli Electric
Storms keep popping up. The weather is causing havoc for some homeowners. Surge protectors added to your main electrical panel can help with the lightning problems that we are all experiencing. E. Haberli Electric has experienced electricians that can fix all your electrical problems. They installed a generator at my house so I have power even if a storm strikes and the area looses power, my freezer will not go off and with the price of groceries lately
I could not afford to lose all I have stored. I can still cook and will have lights. I guess the neighbors are coming for dinner
Old circuit breakers or too much drawing off the circuit breakers are a possible cause for tripping
and you may need to update that service. Homeowners who have lived in a house for some time tend to forget that over time electrical items such as toaster ovens, microwaves, coffee pots are added little by little and before you know it the draw has increased and when you plug in that iron or hairdryer oops! Time to update!
Can’t stand the heat and just bought an A/C unit whether it be a window unit that needs a dedicated outlet or an outside unit that needs to be wired into the panel, I know that E. Haberli Electric can do the job, I use them for all my electrical needs. Just call 203-235-5653 and they be there to fix or install what you need.____________________________________________________________________
"Purr-fect Companions"
Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer
Boy, do we have a cat for you! With the large selection of cats and kittens presently at the M.H.S., why would you go anywhere else to find one? You want a cute cuddly kitten? We've got them. One that's frisky and full of energy? We've got them too! From chatty cats to sweet, shy lap cats, there's a perfect companion for you at the M.H.S.
If you are unsure about what kind of feline is for you, please come on down and spend some time with them. This will give you the chance to see who comes to you and for you to get to know their personalities.
There are many people who don't make a decision on their first visit and return to find the perfect friend. The staff and volunteers are there to assist you in making the right choice to suite your life style and your surroundings.
As always, we desperately need homes for some of our cats that don't adjust well to the large cat population that we have. Some of these cats are Sheba, Rotini, Zeus, Alonso, Sadie, France, Ace, Kelli, Honeydew, Violet, Verizon, Big Poppa, Marge, Celena, Jewel and Maggie.
It has been very slow for donations in the past couple of months and we have so many mouths to feed. Ground wet cat food (no fish please), Purina cat and kitten chow, Alpo or Pedigree canned dog food, bedding (sheets, towels, blankets, etc.) and cleaning supplies are just a few things that would be VERY appreciated.
We will be having a huge tag sale in September to raise funds for the animals. Anything that you would like to donate to help us, can be dropped off after August 1st at the M.H.S. Please check our website for updates, fundraisers and of course, to view the animals. The Meriden Humane Society is located at 311 Murdock Ave. We can also be reached by phone at (203)238-3650 or our website www.meridenhs.petfinder.org. Thank you for your continued support. See you at the shelter!
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CONSUMER CONSIDERATIONS
Paving Your Way -- Driveway Basics for Homeowners
By Jerry Farrell, Jr.
It’s summertime, and for many homeowners, contractors, and scammers, that means driveway time. Your driveway protects your vehicles, shoes and clothing from wet weather, provides a “first impression” to visitors as they approach your home, and enhances curb appeal, adding value to your investment -- so it’s worth planning your driveway carefully.
If your driveway needs a complete reconstruction or resurfacing, consult your neighbors, friends and family members for names of reliable firms they’re familiar with. Call the Department of Consumer Protection at 1-800-842-2649 to ensure that the firms are registered as Home Improvement Contractors and ask about any complaints that we may have on file. Interview several companies; pay special attention to what they recommend and what they can provide. Be sure that you discuss the methods of installation or repair the contractor plans to use. Get at least three bids on the project. Monitor the project and plan to be on hand for the construction.
Avoid the common trap of pavers who knock on your front door with “a load of asphalt that was left over from another job,” offering you a bargain. At best, asphalt that is “left over” from another job will be too cool to make a good driveway pavement. More likely, you’ll fall prey to traveling pavers out to scam you.
Groups of traveling or transient pavers often appear unannounced at your door, ready to offer you a bargain. They also pitch low-cost paving services with flyers or door to door, mostly on weekends. They approach people out in their yards, especially senior citizens. Often, they offer a “neighborhood deal,” a low-cost pitch designed to scam as many victims as possible. Many transient pavers are members of widespread fly-by night operations out to grab the most of your money for little, if any, work. The quality of their work and materials is often inferior, requiring extensive repairs. Every year we get calls about these scams, so don’t become their next victim!
Plan your project carefully, learn something about the subject, hire a reputable contractor, and oversee the work. This is the best way to approach any work on your home.
Two different types of asphalt driveways, hot mix asphalt and chip seal, both lie on a gravel base. Before workers proceed to pave the driveway, check that the gravel base is between 2 and 8 inches thick. A base that is too thin or too thick will not produce a satisfactory driveway. There is a proper amount of process stone and grading needed for adequate water run off, and each driveway is unique.
Hot mix asphalt is a mix of aggregate, containing stones and sand; asphalt also contains liquid asphalt cement. This cement, a petroleum product, is heated to about 300 degrees, the point where it liquefies. The liquid cement and aggregate mix is poured on top of the gravel base, where very soon it cools and hardens into a thick black driveway that absorbs heat in the winter, and therefore helps to melt any snow on its surface. This driveway gets a minimum of cracks, except in locations where the ground freezes well below the surface.
Some hot asphalt mixtures are smoother on top than others; some have a higher content of asphalt cement than others. Consult with your contractor to assure that your mixture will provide the surface and performance characteristics you want.
Some pavers offer full-depth hot asphalt driveways that are built entirely of asphalt mixture from the soil subgrade up. These driveways keep water out of the pavement, preventing ice damage, and overall are considered more durable. Before full-depth paving, topsoil containing clay should be removed or modified. A solid, thoroughly compacted subgrade should be prepared before paving with 5 to 6 inches of full-depth hot mix. As an option, some contractors use 6 to 8 inches of compacted aggregate, or gravel, as a base under 3 inches of hot mix.
A chip seal driveway contains asphalt that has 30% of the liquid cement replaced with water. During paving, the water within the hot asphalt evaporates, and a layer of crushed gravel is sprayed over the asphalt with a special spreader, then a drum roller packs it all down. The warm asphalt “holds” the sprayed gravel pieces, which adds texture to the driveway.
Asphalt must be placed and compacted while it is hot. Air and surface temperatures play significant roles in how fast the mix cools, and therefore determine the amount of time a contractor has to complete the work. The amount of time that a contractor needs will depend on the size of the job, amount of handwork and available equipment. It is also important to ensure that the soil or rock on which the pavement is being placed is firm and dry. If this is not the case, you should ask that the paving be delayed until it is.
How to hire a paving contractor All reputable contractors will be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection and will include their HIC registration number in their ads, on their vehicles and on their contracts, as required by law. They will also be able to provide references and phone numbers of satisfied customers. Ask references about the contractors’ quality of work, attention to details, on-time performance, and ability to finish work completely. Your contractor’s registration with the Department of Consumer Protection is vitally important to you – it can provide you with a measure of protection in case something goes wrong.
Here are some other points to remember:
• Once you have selected the contractor you want, get all the details in a signed contract. The contract should detail such items as the responsibility for grading work and accuracy, for compacting the subgrade and base, for measuring compacted pavement thicknesses, for pavement slopes and smoothness, payment schedule, and guarantee of the finished product. It’s important to make sure your contractor has adequate liability insurance. Ask for written proof, and contact their insurance provider to be sure their policy is in place.
• Be sure your copy of the signed contract includes the contractor’s Home Improvement registration number, three day right of cancellation, a start and end date and a list of all aspects of work to be done.
• Don’t respond to unsolicited offers of home improvement. Contractors who show up, often in unmarked trucks, offering high-pressure, low-priced service, sometimes urging you to hire them the same day, should be sent packing. If a solicitor refuses to leave your premises when asked, contact the police immediately.
• Check gates for clearance; know who’s responsible for re-hanging them, if needed.
• Decide whether you, a plumber, or someone else will raise any water valves or sewer inlets to meet the asphalt around them. Assign specific responsibilities and make notes.
• Surface drainage is very important. Make sure your contractor plans and builds adequate surface slopes to produce good drainage. “Ponding,” or standing water, on or near the driveway, is undesirable.
• Don’t ever pay for your whole project up front. Use a payment schedule that is fair to you and to the contractor, such as 1/3 up front, 1/3 when work is half done, and 1/3 when the project is completed to your satisfaction. Beware of pavers who strongly request cash payments or ask you to make your check payable to cash, rather than to a business name. These are tactics commonly used by transient pavers who are getting ready to take the money and run.
Maintaining your driveway If designed and built correctly, an asphalt driveway will give you years of effective service. A high-grade asphalt emulsion sealer (sometimes called bituminous emulsified sealer) should be applied every two to five years, depending on your climate, wear patterns, and the like. Driveways that are sealed regularly look better and last longer. Emulsion sealers consist of asphalt cement treated to mix with water. Once applied, the water evaporates, the material hardens, and the surface is waterproof. For driveways on slopes, some sealers contain sharp sand that will provide added traction.
Jerry Farrell, Jr., appointed in 2006 by Governor Rell as Connecticut’s Commissioner of Consumer Protection, is an attorney with fifteen years experience. Important information about consumer affairs can be found on the Department’s website: www.ct.gov/dcp.
CONSUMER CONSIDERATIONS: Phone, Cable Internet Packages – Deal or No Deal?
by Jerry Farrell, Jr.
Technology certainly can make life simpler, but often, making the right technology choice is not so simple. These days, many technology providers are pitching plans that promise to deliver high speed internet, local and long-distance phone service and cable or satellite television for about $100 a month. The ads promise that you’ll enjoy the convenience and simplicity of getting just one bill for these services, and having only one company to call if you have questions or need assistance.
Many people certainly save money with this bundled approach. Today, a cable subscription alone can cost $50 or more, so if you use the same provider for cable, phone and internet, a bundled package may save you $20 to $50 per month as opposed to getting the services separately.
But, as with just about anything, this latest trend has its advantages and disadvantages. Sharp consumers carefully weigh the pros and cons of bundled services against their actual usage and needs.
Your first step before looking at packages is to round up several months’ worth of your recent bills for TV service, Internet, and phone. Track what you use and what you spend. This way, you’ll be able to compare the promotional offers with your actual usage, costs, and needs.
As you review the various offers, notice that many bundled deals are time limited “promotions,” usually lasting from three months to one year. You want to find out what happens to the low promotional prices after the promotional period ends; how much will your bill go up?
Some telecommunication companies will offer to lower your rate if you sign a contract that locks you in for a year or more. Before signing any contract, read all the literature carefully. Be sure you understand what happens if you terminate the contract early. Termination fees are known to be as high as $250.
Remember to compare your current usage, needs and costs with those offered through the plan. Read all the terms carefully to make sure you are getting what you need and saving money as well. For example, in some bundles, long distance minutes are limited, so if you need a lot of long distance time, you’ll pay extra. You want to ask what the rate will be if you go over the limit.
Some companies that provide Internet phone service don’t support faxing, so if your home business requires it, you’ll be out of luck. Similarly, if the Internet phone provider has an outage or interruption in service, you’ll be without phone as well as Internet service until the system is back online.
If your needs change while you’re in a promotion period or contract, you may be unable to change service options without encumbering additional expense or a rate increase. Even with providers that don’t require contracts, rates can rise if one of the bundled services is dropped or changed. Ask about penalties or other problems that may occur if services or dropped or modified prematurely.
There are often fees and equipment charges over and above the bundle’s advertised price. For example, your cable box, modem or satellite equipment will most likely be extra. Make sure you read and understand all of the fees and charges associated with your package.
Finally, be absolutely sure you can receive the advertised services where you live. Some high-speed Internet services may not be available in your area. Satellite is more widely available, provided your home has an unobstructed view of the horizon to the southwest. DSL is widely available in urban and suburban neighborhoods, but not as much in rural areas. If you don’t ask, you may not find out until after you sign up.
To sum up, one-stop shopping makes sense when it saves time and money without sacrificing value. For many consumers, a bundled telecommunications package is a real deal, but certainly, you should make that determination for yourself.
Jerry Farrell, Jr., appointed in 2006 by Governor Rell as Connecticut’s Commissioner of Consumer Protection, is an attorney with fifteen years experience. Important information about consumer issues can be found on the Department’s website: www.ct.gov/dcp.
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Local Program Empowers Parents
The Parent Leadership Training Institute is a statewide initiative created to train, inspire and empower parents to become effective advocates for children. Through PLTI’s unique adult learning experience, you explore your passions, strengths, beliefs and ideas. Then, you work to develop interpersonal and public communications skills, as well as your understanding of government, media and civic relations.
The training that I received as a member of the Parent Leadership Training Institute is invaluable. I began PLTI a bit skeptical and uncertain as to the benefits of such a program. My primary reason for submitting my application was to represent my children’s best interest in our new community of Meriden. My children and I had recently relocated to Meriden and I wanted to understand “how” to navigate the inner workings of the school system. Since my graduation from PLTI (Class of 2008) I have finally come to the realization that I have received far more than I could have ever imagined. I am now familiar with our state’s legislative processes. In addition, I am an advocate for positive change as it impacts the areas of education, health and my community. Hence, I have learned to lend a voice to issues that affect everyone. The proof of my learned skills is evident in the practicum, most commonly known as “the community project”, of which all participants in the PLTI had to complete. This project incorporated many of the skills that were developed in the training. My community project involved increasing the public bus transportation in Meriden. I have certainly become aware of the importance of the “art of persuasion” and the realization that you must simply tell your story but gear it toward your audience. My greatest surprise was “how” supportive our legislators are of our becoming more civic savvy. If I had a question, they were willing to consider, recommend and take action on it. Prior to PLTI, I had always thought of our legislators as “those people at the capitol”. Now, I view them as fellow citizens that are focused on addressing the issues that challenge our communities. PLTI has reinforced my belief that a person should be a part of the solution not just the problem. It’s easy to just simply complain about the issues that plague our community, however, it takes determination to help do something about it. We are all natural change agents whether we are aware of it or not. However, PLTI’s training has provided the environment to allow my natural abilities to flourish. If you are interested in bringing your concern to the forefront, enroll into the Parents Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) program.
Elisa Hundley 2008 PLTI Graduate
This is my personal story:
My name is Daisy Olivo and I am a PLTI graduate from the 2008 class. My personal story is that since being part of the Parent Leadership Training Institute I have learned allot about politics and what can be done to change a situation. My current position in the community is that I am like a light house. I do and create fundraisers and community events throughout Meriden. I have to know everything about resources and events, not only in Meriden but in the surrounding towns. I thought I knew everything but I stand corrected. I am currently involved in several committees and we are trying to make a difference and improve our committee. I am putting together a Teen Girls support group that will focus on teen girl issues. I have a couple of girls from all of the Meriden schools who will come together and speak on different topics. Come September these girls will have the policy and procedures for embarking in the first Diverse Teen Girl Leadership Program. Topics of concern would be diversity, education, discrimination, boys, teen rape, teen domestic violence, how to reach your parent and much more. These are just a few things that I am empowering the girls to speak on and allow them to coordinate the group. I will just sit back and see it unfold and give the girls guidance in this venture. I will have the girls involved in community events and recruitment for the kick off which will be in September 2008.
I would like to thank all of the facilitators in my class of 2008 and speakers for encouraging me and giving me the knowledge that I know have to make this happen.
Daisy Olivo 2008 PLTI Graduate
For more information contact: Children First Imitative, PLTI office at 203-630-3566 / or apply online for
January, 2009 classes at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org
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Castle Bank is Moving Up (town)!
Castle Bank and Trust Company recently announced it is planning to relocate its main office as well as its 852 East Main Street Branch office to 1295 East Main Street on the corner of Research Parkway. This move is a terrific opportunity for Castle Bank as it will provide a better facility and location for our customers. The new location will provide additional services for both business and consumer customers by allowing the bank to offer safe deposit boxes as well as the convenience of a new drive up ATM.
The relocation will involve 11 of the bank’s executive, operations and commercial lending staff currently located at 100 Hanover Street as well as 7 employees currently staffing the 852 East Main Street Branch. The Branch located at 100 Hanover Street will continue to provide banking services to Castle Bank’s west side and downtown customers.
Castle Bank will continue to carry on the community banking tradition for the citizens of Meriden.
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The End of the World, or Not
Nick Thomas
By now, you’ve probably heard what mischief the Swiss are up to these days. They have built, and are about to turn on, the world’s most powerful atom-smasher to study the building blocks of the universe.
We’re talking an investigation of dark matter, extra dimensions, string theory, subatomic particles, and even the ever elusive Higgs boson. (If you’re curious what that is, it’s a hypothetical massive scalar elementary particle - just wanted to clear that up). Call me cautious, but when a country can’t even make cheese without holes in it, I’m worried what’s going to happen when they flip this baby on in August.
Seems there is a chance that this machine (known as the Large Hadron Collider - as opposed to the portable Small Hadron Colliders you can buy through mail-order from Lands End) could malfunction just a tad. So are we talking about fusing out a few villa toasters in the Alps? Blowing out the street lights in downtown Geneva? Melting down the European power grid? Nope. How about spawning a black hole that could swallow up the entire Earth.
Not that that would necessarily be a bad thing. If it means I don’t have to listen to any more smarmy, election-year political rhetoric for another four months, it might just be worth it. But fear not. The experts say that the chances of the Earth being vaporized are about the same odds as winning Lotto. Is that supposed to be reassuring? Generally, when it comes to total, universal, planetary meltdown, a probability of ZERO might be a little more comforting.
Of course, this isn’t the first time the possibility of a world-destroying, cataclysmic event has been raised. Over the centuries, various nutty characters have predicted something like this would happen, even without the aid of the ingenious Swiss. Many of these world-ending prognostications had their origin in religious doctrine which, for some reason, often seems to attract leaders who delight in making depressing predictions of Armageddon.
Let’s examine the case of New Yorker William Miller who - modest man that he was - founded the Millerite Church back in the 1800s, and predicted the end of the world would come on April 3, 1843. When it didn’t, he tried again for July 7; he struck out a third time on March 21, 1844. Finally, on October 22 the same year, the Earth held together once more, much to Rev. Miller’s annoyance.
Oddly enough, despite his failures, Miller was revered by many of his Millerite groupies, which is a bit hard to fathom. I mean, if you’re going to follow someone who claims he can predict the end of the universe, at least wait until the guy gets the date right before you begin worshiping him. It seems some of the Millerites were, in fact, disenchanted with their doom and gloom leader, and formed a splinter group: the Miller Lites. They were a happier, more relaxed bunch.
Along these lines, of course, we all hope the predictions of the atom-smasher-induced demise of the Earth are exaggerated and that if something does go wrong, it will more than likely just take out Norway. “Obviously, there is nothing to worry about,” one of the scientists in charge of the project confidently predicted, as he boarded a plane to spend the summer in Tasmania.
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(Andy, I know you are a busy fellow, so don't answer this email.) In response to your email to me, things do seem to be unfair at times for our struggling middle-class people who are not quite poor enough to qualify for a damn thing. I do complain, don't get me wrong, but I know this -- the United States of America is the best place in the whole world to live! And I do not for one second take that for granted. I feel terrible about the children, who are born into abject poverty in other countries, for their parents also, but I don't live there, and I am thankful, ever so thankful, that God chose me to be born in the USA. There are beliefs out there that a child's spirit in heaven decides where they will be born before they are born. There are reasons for this. If one believes in reincarnation, there are always more lessons to be learned. In one life we may be rich, and in another poor; famous in one; no one in particular in another. I try very hard to approach life on a day-to-day basis and not worry inordinately about the future. I don't know what it holds. I don't have a crystal ball. I do know that this paper serves a purpose. Perhaps it is on a somewhat small playing field in the spectrum of this great country, but for all of those people who contribute to this paper and for all of those who read this paper, where would we be able to post our stories, our joys, our griefs, our comments, our views or read about them if it were not for what you have created for all of us? When I thought one day, What would it be like if The People's Press were not here anymore?, I was taken aback by my own thoughts about that. Where would I send my stories to? What would it be like not to read the great columns that appear monthly, like Gregory Simpson's "Sheltering An Animal's Perspective," "The Mayor's Corner," Dorothy Gonick's "Nature As A Mirror," Bobbie Vosgien's "Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties," and the regular contributors who send in great stories, especially the old-timers like Francis W. Lappert? I am grateful for this paper. I have been given so many opportunities over the last seven years or so (I have lost count of the years, actually) to write stories for this paper, whether they were stories about the town, the mayor, a doll store (Peggy's Porcelains Doll Boutique) , "Paula's Place," my old neighbors on Simpson Avenue, my cat Babe ("The Last 23 Days"), "Raising The Flag On Iwo Jima," the Castle Bank in Meriden, a tribute to my friend Paula Cella ("You Weren't Supposed To Go"), "Where's The Beef?" about a dairy industry here in town (Cella Brothers), "My Mother's Voice" and my piano, "Walking Through The Fire," "The Cat Who Couldn't Play," and just too many stories to remember at this point. This paper got me to write again, something I hadn't done in many, many years. I was so very grateful that I wrote the story about Simpson Avenue when I did, and was it a coincidence? "To All My Friends On Simpson Avenue - This One's For You!" It was in the March 2007 edition. Gracia Parete passed on November 27th, 2007 (the day after my birthday), at age 98 and a half! I saw her children and grandchildren at the wake and neighbors I had known on Simpson Avenue. Gracia was my landlady before the house was sold, and I had known her since 1990. So many people at that wake spoke to me about The People's Press article and how much they appreciated it. Gracia spoke only Italian, but I was assured that the story was read to her and translated into Italian, and she loved it. Thank you, Andy. You just never know when you will touch someone with your words, and you have given me this opportunity I might never have had had it not been for this paper. I know it is hard work to pay the bills, and it is for all of us, but please keep this paper going. (It's okay if you want to delete that sentence.) I appreciate, truly, what you have given to this community of ours. It started out small, but look how it has grown! Could you have imagined it? Gratefully yours, Barbara Sherburne. barndt49@yahoo.com
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Medical Transportation for Meriden Seniors
The City of Meriden Advisory Board on Aging is currently publicizing transportation resources for Meriden senior citizens who are going to medical appointments. Information is being sent to medical offices, churches and other common community organizations. The Board has identified the following medical transportation options for Meriden seniors. You may wish to clip this article to keep for future reference. Please call the number(s) listed for the service you desire.
1. Meriden Senior Citizens Center (237-3338). Transportation for Meriden residents aged 55 and over to medical appointments in Meriden. 24-hour advance notice required. Funded by the City of Meriden, the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and the CT Dept. of Transportation. No fee for the service, contributions accepted.
2. American Red Cross, Wallingford/Meriden branch (265-6721). Transportation to out-of-town (outside Meriden) medical appointments. One week advance notice requested. Partially funded by grants from the Agency on Aging of South Central CT and United Way of Meriden and Wallingford. No fee, contributions accepted.
3. Northeast Transportation Co. (ADA Paratransit Program) (1-800-441-8901). Transportation to medical appointments in Meriden and Wallingford. Riders must complete an application to verify that a disability makes it difficult to use the fixed bus route. Fee charged.
4. American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345). Volunteer drivers provide transportation for cancer patients to medical appointments. Three business days advance notice is requested.
5. Meriden Transit District (235-6851). Fixed route local bus service in Meriden with connections to Wallingford, Middletown, New Britain and New Haven. Special fare for senior citizens aged 65 and over with Medicare card or Transit ID card.
The Meriden Advisory Board on Aging meets monthly at the Meriden Senior Center, 22 West Main St., Meriden. Please call the Center at 237-0066 for questions about the Board's activities.
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Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet
By Barb Sherburne
Would you believe I picked my very first tomatoes on July 11th? That was early this year. What a change from mid-August last year. I have picked about nine tomatoes so far. Yum. I ate most of them right in the garden, not bothering to go home first. Today is July 22nd. I have also been picking cucumbers, but a strange thing happened this year - some of my cucumbers ripened in a yellow color. They were not rotten, but they just ripened as yellow instead of green. I would have to do some research to find out why.
I picked two zucchini at my garden at home, but nothing else there yet. The cucumbers are doing a good job climbing up the trellis, so that is working out well. I think I will have yellow squash very soon. That's at home.
Back at the Community Garden, I must have plucked out at least 50 cleomes. They emerged late and were just encompassing everything, miles away from where I had them last year. I left a few here and there, but they were everywhere. I hate to "kill" plants, but they would certainly have done away with the cukes and other vegetables had I not pulled them out. My corn, for the second year in a row, is not doing well. I don't know if it's the seed I used, but they did not get very tall, shot up the top part of the plant, which turned brown, the silk turned brown also, and I doubt I'll get any corn. Next year I will buy a different brand of seed.
As for the artichoke experiment, I think I planted them too close together. They are still alive, but it is not looking like they will form any fruit this year. I am not sure if it takes two years or not to do so, but, so far, no artichokes. A "volunteer" sunflower emerged next to the artichokes, and I left it there. Meanwhile the particular brand of sunflower seeds I bought this year are producing the slowest and shortest growing sunflowers I have ever seen in my life. There are sunflowers in various parts of the Community Garden that are about 10 feet tall. I think mine are about two feet tall. The lilies are all doing well, and I have yet to know if the Black-Eyed Susans can compete with all that are around them. You would have to see this garden to understand. There is barely a place to walk in it. Very crowded. The basil is doing great, and I already made a batch of pesto, and it was very tasty. I am expecting lots of tomatoes to be coming forth in the next few weeks, but am so disappointed that a six-pack I bought was mismarked. I have no cherry tomatoes this year, which are a favorite of mine. This will be the first time in like 10 years that I will have no cherry tomatoes, which is a bummer for me. So far the tomatoes I have picked are a medium size, and I have no idea what they are, but they taste good, and I guess that's the important part. The marigolds and zinnias look gorgeous, and they will fill out a lot in the coming weeks. Actually, if you were to visit my garden at the Wallingford Community Garden, it would probably appear to be mostly flowers, but really, I do have vegetables there too. I think I need a bigger garden. My best wishes to all of you who are gardening, and happy watering! There is nothing like getting a forecast for seven days in a row of rain and not getting one drop. That's why I water just about every day, and not to mention pulling thousands of weeds. There is some work involved for sure, but it is worth it, at least to me. barndt49@yahoo.com
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True Treasures
By Diana Lewis
Chapter 2
Jonathan found Elizabeth at the grave site again when the wagons were starting to leave.
"We have to leave, Beth." he said gently.
" I can’t," answered Elizabeth, with tears in her eyes.
"I know, Hon, I don’t want to either, but we have to come on." He gently put his arm around her and led her to the wagon. He helped her up and he climbed in. They pulled in line with the wagons after the last one passed. Elizabeth kept looking back with tears in her eyes. Jonathan couldn’t comfort her because he was driving the wagon, but he took her hand and kissed it. She gave him a weak smile. She rode for a while and she asked Jonathan to stop so she could walk for a while, which he did. She fell in step with the women and children who were walking but she stayed mostly by herself.
Then a woman with brown hair, tied back into a bun and she wore a brown calico dress, walked up and started walking beside her.
"You know he’s in a better place," starting a conversation.
"What do you mean? He’s back there in an unmarked grave. How can he be anywhere else?" asked Elizabeth sharply.
"He’s not suffering anymore and he’s probably having the time of his life where he is."
"I don’t understand what you are saying," answered Elizabeth. "Who are you anyway?"
"I’m sorry. I am Rebecca Chambers, and your son is in heaven with Jesus."
"Oh, come on, there is no such place and this Jesus is a myth."
"No, He’s not, He is real and He is in heaven right now at the right hand of The Father God and your son is there with Him."
"I don’t believe you. Please just leave me alone. I want to be alone."
"Please, you and your husband come by our wagon tonight after supper and I’ll show you that He is real and your son is there with Him." Elizabeth looked at the woman wearily. She ran off toward their wagon and Jonathan stopped to let her get on.
"What’s the matter, Beth?" asked Jonathan. Elizabeth was in tears. "What did that woman say to you?"
"She said that our son was in heaven with Jesus. Can this be true?"
"Well, it could be possible. My father used to read us the Bible and it teaches that when a person dies, some go to heaven."
"Is it possible that he’s there and he’s not suffering anymore and he’s having the time of his life like this woman said? She wants us to come over and she said she would prove it tonight after supper."
"Well, I guess it is possible, but I never thought too much of the Bible.."
"I always thought those stories were myths. At least, that’s what my mother used to say."
"I really don’t know, Beth. I don’t know whether to believe them or not."
"Shall we go find out?" she asked.
"If you want to," answered Jonathan.
"I don’t know," she answered.
"Well, we can decide later," she nodded.
They drove for about another hour and they stopped for the noon meal. They rested for about an hour and they were on the road again until dust. Jonathan had to fix one of the wheels on the wagon that night so they didn’t get to go visit the Chambers that evening. He and Jake were busy most of the evening to have it ready by morning. Elizabeth retired early. She went to sleep thinking about her son.
When Jonathan came to bed it was late. Elizabeth was dreaming and talking in her sleep. Her son was running towards and she could not get to him. She started screaming and Jonathan woke her up.
"Beth, wake up, you’re dreaming, Wake up!" he said quietly, while he was gently shaking her. She woke up all out of breath. She kept breathing trying to get her breath. Jonathan waited patiently for his wife. When she was able, she started telling him about the dream.
"I don’t know what to tell you, Darling, just that it was just a dream. Our son is gone. He will never come back to us. I know it hurts you.. It also hurts me. We need to grieve about this, but go on as well. We will have other children, Beth. They won’t take his place but we will love them just as much. He put his hand on her chin and pulled her to him with a kiss.
"Now let’s some sleep, we will need to get up soon. Jake will be banging on the wagon at 5:00." He took her in his arms and they lay down and went to sleep. Elizabeth didn’t dream this time.
Home Country
Slim Randles
When Harley Jacobsen came into Doc’s office the other day for his physical - you know, the one his wife, Gladys, insists on from time to time - it was a treat for Doc.
Harley is one of Doc’s favorite people. Harley is a farmer. Not a young farmer, but a solid farmer. A 24/7 farmer. It is said in coffee-drinking circles – and we have several here – that ol’ Harley can make hair grow on a bald head and wheat grow on rocks.
When he’d been thumped and bumped and listened to and pumped up and partially drained, Harley asked Doc for the verdict.
“Not bad at all for someone your age, Harley,” Doc said, grinning. “But you look tired, so my advice is to take some time off and go fishing or take Gladys to the beach. Something fun. Relaxing.”
“Can’t right now, Doc,” Harley said. “Plowing summer fallow.”
“Well, how about later on?”
“There’s harvest you know, and the trees will have to be pruned before winter, and then the winter wheat will go in. Have to overhaul the wheel tractor this winter and add on to the equipment shed, and then it’ll be time to plant.”
“Harley, I want to see you get some rest,” Doc said. “You need two weeks with nothing to do. Get someone to help with the farm and go do something fun.”
“For two weeks?” Harley asked.
“Two full weeks, Harley.”
“Doc, I just can’t do the job in two weeks. Took 60 years of farming to get this tired.”
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Brought to you by the dogs and cats at your local animal shelter. Pay them a visit and take home a new best friend.
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Did you know???…….What I have learned as a hospice volunteer!
Almost 10 months ago, I finished Connecticut VNA’s hospice volunteer training…………and my life changed in ways I could never have anticipated. I have had the privilege to sit with some amazing beautiful people, people who are on their final journey, people who have so much to share, and so much to teach. I would like to share with you some of the things I have learned as s hospice volunteer, and that exemplify how hospice is truly all about living!
Hospice means giving up hope– this is not true!
Hospice is all about living each day fully. Hospice adds quality and dignity to every day. Too many people are not referred to hospice early enough in their illness to really benefit from all the hospice interdisciplinary team has to offer. The earlier someone begins receiving hospice care, the greater the benefits not only to the patient – but to their loved ones as well.
Hospice is a philosophy of care…..
That provides care wherever a patient calls home. This can be in the comfort of your home, nursing homes, residential care facilities and assisted living facilities. I have visited many people in nursing homes and have been impressed with the skill of the care given in local facilities.
Hospice is only for cancer patients….not true! Hospice is for anyone with an end stage disease.
This includes congestive heart failure, dementia, lung disease, neurological diseases, end stage liver or renal disease or any number of other end stage conditions. A physician needs to certify that the patient has a terminal illness….but anyone can make the call to ask about hospice and request a hospice evaluation.
I have seen many patients whose family or physicians waited until only days or hours remained before they were referred to hospice care. I often wish these patients had started receiving hospice care months earlier – to truly benefit from all hospice has to offer.
Hospice is for the patient only…...not true!
Hospice provides comfort and emotional support for the patient and their loved ones. Support not only during the illness – but for 13 months following the patient’s death. Patients are comforted by knowing that their loved ones will receive the support and comfort they need.
One of the many joys I receive from being a hospice volunteer is the gift of being present for my patient’s and their families. Knowing that by me visiting they may take a few hours and attend to personal business, shopping or day to day tasks… knowing that their loved one is being cared for – that there is a hospice team supporting them and providing excellent professional care – physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Many times family members cannot be with their loved – and knowing that a volunteer will visit – sets their mind at ease……they know I’ll be there – and they know I care….
I can only speak from my personal experience with the Connecticut VNA, a non-profit organization, when I say you will never find a greater group of staff and volunteers whose ONLY reason for doing what they do is to provide quality care at end of life. Volunteers provide a loving presence - through their visits, sharing gifts of music, visiting with a registered therapy animal – just to bring a smile to someone’s day.. If you have ever considered volunteering, I would urge you to consider becoming a Connecticut VNA hospice volunteer. It doesn’t require a lot of time and what you receive from being a volunteer is priceless. Knowing that I made a difference – that I brought a little sunshine to someone’s day or lightened a burden – even just for a little while – is a feeling beyond description. I offer my time and talents – just to help…
Do you have questions about hospice care? Do you have a loved one that could benefit from hospice services? Do you want your loved ones to be surrounded by professional, knowledgeable caring people at the end of life? Do YOU want to become a Connecticut VNA hospice volunteer?
I encourage you to call
Connecticut VNA
203-679-5300
– it will change your life forever.
Jim
Connecticut VNA Hospice Volunteer
Did You Know?
Summer vacations have long been a tradition in the United States. Perhaps because of school being out for several months during the summer season or the casual attitude summer weather promotes, many people choose to take their vacations in the summertime. While that vacation time is valued, compared to other countries it's miniscule. According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), among the more developed countries the United States lags far behind some of its counterparts when it comes to the average number of vacation days each year. While the average Italian citizen enjoys 42 vacation days per year, in the United States workers enjoy less than one-third of that total. The average American worker gets just 13 vacation days each year, exactly half the number the country's neighbor to the north, Canada, enjoys each year. Following Italy at the top of the list are France (37 days), Germany (35 days) and Brazil (34 days). Joining the U.S. near the bottom of the listare Korea and Japan, both of which average 25 days of vacation per year.
Did You Know?
Fireworks are known and loved all over the world. They're often a part of festivals and holidays, adding excitement and spectacle. The invention of fireworks is credited to the Chinese. The first fireworks were actually green bamboo that were thrown into fires to scare spirits away in ancient China, called "pas chuk." It is believed that gunpowder was discovered accidentally by a Chinese alchemist who mixed sulphur and salt peter (potassium nitrate) over a fire. The Chinese name for gunpowder is "huo yao" (fire chemical).
“Sheltering an Animal’s Perspective”
by
Gregory M. Simpson
The number one reason why someone donates to a charity is simple. It’s because he or she is asked. So, I’m asking.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, there are 48 municipal shelters, 15 private shelters, and another 145 non-sheltered animal welfare groups in Connecticut. They all have one thing in common. They all could use your support.
Americans love their companion animals. For 2007, Americans were expected to spend 48.7 billion dollars on them, according to Packaged Facts, a consumer research company. This exceeds the gross national product of about 120 nations. Yet there are thousands more animals awaiting homes in Connecticut’s animal shelters.
A donation to a shelter of unrestricted funds is always appreciated as it allows an animal welfare group to spend as needs arise. Restricted funds, such as for spay/neuter, are also gratefully accepted, as an estimated 80% of the kittens born annually come from feral and stray cats. Another way to contribute is to remember a shelter in one’s will and estate planning.
The greatest gift of all is to give of oneself. Volunteers see their efforts as labors of love and the opportunities to volunteer are as varied as one’s talents, interests, and available time. Animal welfare groups need adoption counselors and volunteers for animal care, rescue, dog walking, cat socialization, transportation, and grooming. Volunteers are also needed for fund raising, such as grant writing, soliciting at stores, and organizing events. Also helpful are office tasks such as phone work, keyboarding, filing, web-site maintenance and correspondence. Animal shelters will train on these responsibilities. Or organize your own tag sale or bake sale to benefit a shelter. Foster homes are always needed and invaluable, especially for non-sheltered animal welfare groups. Regardless of what you choose, become a dedicated volunteer who commits to consistently and competently fulfill a responsibility.
Public education is another vital role. Perhaps your contribution can be to educate through the media. Write a letter to the editor, an Op. Ed. piece, or a magazine or newspaper article. Place your name on an e-mail list to be alerted for legislative or other advocacy. Appear on radio or television, organize a petition drive, or help publish a shelter’s newsletter.
Set a good example for youth. Research has shown that young Americans will volunteer if they have a parent who does. Seeing respected peers volunteer is also motivating for teenagers.
If you would like to donate something tangible to an animal shelter, consider the following: dog and cat food or treats, cat litter, blankets, towels, cat and dog toys or bedding, dog collars and leashes, latex gloves, kitten milk replacement (KMR), and heating pads. For a shelter’s laundry and cleaning needs, consider giving laundry detergent, bleach, fabric softener, paper towels, garbage bags, tissues, laundry baskets, hampers, disinfectant spray, and dryer sheets. A shelter’s office could use postage stamps, envelopes, copy paper, and other stationery supplies.
True concern for animals needs to be demonstrated through commitments of time and donations. Volunteer work and contributions are at the core of charity work for animals. Shelters could not survive without both.
In the 1700s, Connecticut’s Noah Webster defined a volunteer as a person who enters any service of his own free will. So, I’m asking. The animals in shelters all want the same things that each of us wants – to love and be loved, have a home, and live a life without pain and misery. They do not ask for much, but give unconditional love in return. Will you please help a Connecticut animal shelter through volunteering or making a contribution today? Homeless animals are waiting. To find a shelter or rescue organization near you, visit petfinder.com or pets911.com. Thank you in advance for whatever support you can provide.
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.
EarthTalkDear EarthTalk: How is it that hydrogen can replace oil to run our cars? There seems to be a lot of controversy over whether hydrogen can really be generated and stored in such a way to be practical? -- Stephane Kuziora, Thunder Bay, ON
The jury is still out on whether hydrogen will ultimately be our environmental savior, replacing the fossil fuels responsible for global warming and various nagging forms of pollution. Two main hurdles stand in the way of mass production and widespread consumer adoption of hydrogen “fuel cell” vehicles: the still high cost of producing fuel cells, and the lack of a hydrogen refueling network.
Reining in manufacturing costs of fuel cell vehicles is the first major issue the automakers are addressing. While several have fuel cell prototype vehicles on the road—Toyota and Honda are even leasing them to the public in Japan and California—they are spending upwards of $1 million to produce each one due to the advanced technology involved and low production runs. Toyota hopes to reduce its costs per fuel cell vehicle to around $50,000 by 2015, which would make such cars economically viable in the marketplace. On this side of the Pacific, General Motors plans to sell hydrogen-powered vehicles in the U.S. by 2010.
Another problem is the lack of hydrogen refueling stations. Major oil companies have been loathe to set up hydrogen tanks at existing gas stations for many reasons ranging from safety to cost to lack of demand. But obviously the oil companies are also trying to keep customers interested in their highly profitable bread-and-butter, gasoline. A more likely scenario is what is emerging in California, where some 38 independent hydrogen fuel stations are located around the state as part of a network created by the non-profit California Fuel Cell Partnership, a consortium of automakers, state and federal agencies and other parties interested in furthering hydrogen fuel cell technologies.
The benefits of ditching fossil fuels for hydrogen are many, or course. Burning fossil fuels like coal, natural gas and oil to heat and cool our buildings and run our vehicles takes a heavy toll on the environment, contributing significantly to both local problems like elevated particulate levels and global ones like a warming climate. The only by-product of running a hydrogen-powered fuel cell is oxygen and a trickle of water, neither of which will cause any harm to human health or the environment.
But right now 95 percent of the hydrogen available in the U.S. is either extracted from fossil fuels or made using electrolytic processes powered by fossil fuels, thus negating any real emissions savings or reduction in fossil fuel usage. Only if renewable energy sources—solar, wind and others—can be harnessed to provide the energy to process hydrogen fuel can the dream of a truly clean hydrogen fuel be realized.
Stanford University researchers in 2005 assessed the environmental effects of three different hydrogen sources: coal, natural gas, and water electrolysis powered by wind. They concluded that we’d lower greenhouse gas emissions more by driving gasoline/electric hybrid cars than by driving fuel cell cars run on hydrogen from coal. Hydrogen made using natural gas would fare a little bit better in terms of pollution output, while making it from wind power would a slam-dunk for the environment.
Davy’s Goods: Open 7 days a week.
When I was seven years old, our family moved into a house that at one time had been a coal miner’s log cabin. Coal mines abounded in and around the area where our house was located. The rustic abode had been refurbished over the past years, but it still held the echoes of the long-ago craftsman’s labor. It was an impressive house to behold, but had none of the modern-day utilities. At night we had to use kerosene lamps to help prevent us from bumping into what scanty furnishings we owned.
We had to keep our meager foodstuffs tucked away in a springhouse to keep the things from spoiling. Our drinking water came from the cool spring that coursed its way through that old springhouse. I can still taste that pure mountain water, cold on my lips, even today.
There was a general store about three-quarters of mile down the road from our house. My mother would take the four of us (my two sisters, my brother and me) along with her for a walk down that old dusty road to pick up a few things at Davy’s.
One Sunday morning my dad said to me, “Take this can down to Davy’s, and have him fill it with kerosene.” He handed me a shiny new quarter, and reminded me that the can would hold a gallon of kerosene. “That’ll be 15 cents…you can buy something for yourself with the 10 cents left over.” I took the can, and with thoughts of that candy-counter dancing through my head, I jauntily rambled down the dirt road that led straight to Davy’s. It took about 20 minutes to traverse that well-worn coal miner‘s trail. I stood there waiting for the kind old gentleman to fill that can, and when he had finished, he turned to me and asked if I wanted anything else. My wistful eyes confessed my desire of what peeked out through the sparkling glass case of penny candy.
“Yes sir. My dad said I can spend the 10 cents change on myself.” Bouncing over to where my heart’s longing resided, I took a deep breath, and without hesitating stated, “I want two of those root beer barrels, two sticks of Blackjack gum, one piece of licorice…let’s see now…that’s…hmmm, two for a penny…err…How much do I have left, Davy?”
Yeah, that was one of many happy Sundays I’ve relished over the years. I, and I’m sure there are a lot of folks besides me, wish it were still possible to walk into a little corner store like Davy‘s, choose from a myriad of tantalizing sweets, and then with a firm grip wrapped around the paper bag filled with those treasures…put a dime on the counter, and drift out of the store on a magic carpet.
IT TAKES A LOT OF FRIENDS TO MOVE A BOOKSTORE
By Phyllis S. Donovan
Thanks to a cadre of loyal volunteers, the Friends of the Library Bookstore reopened in our new location at 35 West Main Street in downtown Meriden on July 14. The move was completed in seven weeks of intensive labor by a handful of Friends to whom I, as store manager, will be eternally grateful…especially to my co-chair and chief organizer, June Hadley, and to Gil Alwang and Joe Giannetti who laid out the floor plan for the new space, moved all our bookcases and set them up and bolted them down in the new place.
Our old bookstore had operated successfully on the corner of Colony and West Main in downtown Meriden for six years. We all loved our spacious store, café and gift shop but when the rent got so high we weren’t realizing enough profit to give back to the library (our primary mission), we had to look for a new home.
Our store relocation committee considered several options before finally choosing a recently vacated space, owned by Ross Gulino, at 35 West Main Street, barely half a block away. I fell in love with the space at first sight. Although a bit smaller in square feet, I could see us settling in quite comfortably there.
Once decided, we had to deal with the overwhelming logistics of selling off excess inventory, packing up at least 10,000 books, tearing down all the shelves and relocating everything up the street and into the new place…All of this depended on the willingness and hard work of a small but energetic group of volunteers, including the people who had been manning the store in shifts for all those years.
We started with three giant Saturday book sales in May, offering a whole grocery bagful of books for just $3. You’d be surprised at how many books a careful packer can squeeze into one of those small bags, often from 12 hard covers to over 20 paperbacks. A whole summer of reading for just three bucks, you can’t beat it.
The sales helped decimate our shelf stock but once we started packing up what was left, we still had to go out and scrounge boxes from area grocery and package stores to pack them in.
Have you ever tried moving boxes of books? They weigh a ton. I kept telling our people to be careful of their backs. Even with the use of two-wheel dollies, the job is daunting. The actual moving of the bookshelves and boxes of books took up the better part of the next two weekends using members’ SUVs and trucks supplied by Gerry Dion and. June Hadley’s son-in-law, Glenn Flanagan. Meanwhile June, her daughter, Beth Flanagan, and grandkids, Christine and Nick, gathered up everything else that was movable – from décor to office supplies -- to store in June’s garage while we got the store settled.
Once the bookcases were relocated, they had to be wrestled into place and bolted down, and wall shelves had to be reassembled and put up. This, while working around a mountain of boxes containing the books themselves. Gerry Dion and Al Mueller helped Gil and Joe in this phase of the move.
After the shelves were in place, we called in the sorters and shelvers to find room for all those books on one-third less shelf space. Since we were weeding and winnowing the collection to keep only the very best of the books, this required a lot of book knowledge. Where else to turn than once again to our former store staff. They responded selflessly. Some of them, like Linda Hamner, Marlene Bevacque, Barbara Cohen, our internet sales guru Jackie LaRochelle, and of course, chief organizer and volunteer coordinator June Hadley, showed up nearly every day for four weeks. It was as if we all had full time jobs!
Many others came to help when they could: early on, Beryl Letourneau and Amber Pinkerton, Kathy Berube, Dot Ritchie, Bea O’Brien and Winnie Leary, later Helen Lang and her son John (a godsend when it came to moving heavy boxes and shelves), Joan Dion, Jean and Tom Ryan, John Kenny, Mario Cavallo and Frank Ridley. While their husbands were busy relocating the shelves and bookcases, Ginger Alwang and Ann Giannetti also pitched in on the project. Even the Giannetti’s Springer spaniel, Candy, came in for several days to keep an eye on things and offer moral support while snoozing among the boxes.
Soon we had the project organized and operating in a very orderly fashion. Wherever floor space allowed, we tried to keep the shelf layout as close as possible to the old store to avoid confusion. All the boxes had been labeled as to contents (think “kitchen,” “bathroom,” “bedroom” and substitute “fiction,” “mystery,” “cookbooks,” “biography.”) Each volunteer chose a certain category of books to be their responsibility and worked to fill the shelves in that area with the best books available.
Duplicates and older book still in good condition were set aside to be offered on bargain tables out front (like the library’s 10-cent cart) and, if unsold, taken eventually to storage to await the Kiwanis next effort to relocate them to areas where good books are needed. (Not long ago, headed by Ed Murphy, they took two huge truckloads of our donated books to the Gulf States) Now, with floods, fires and tornados plaguing the mid- and western US, I’m sure all of those extra books will be put to good use.
As we settled in, we knew some of the furnishings and café equipment would have to go, especially since we will not have a café in the new store. (We’ll soon be inviting folks to bring in their coffee from Café Dolce next door and browse our collection.) Profits made from selling our excess furnishings and equipment have been added to funds made available to the library for special events such as the children’s summer reading program.
After the books were all shelved, June brought back the nicely refreshed greenery and decorations to soften the look of the store and on Monday, July 14, we once again opened our doors to the public. It had taken seven weeks of intensive labor by a small group of dedicated volunteers who all agree that every minute of our labor was well worth it.
Come in and see us at 35 West Main Street. We’re open from 9 to 5 Mondays through Thursday, 9 to 8 on Fridays and 10 to 2 on Saturdays. Our gently used books are available at very friendly prices…perfect for vacation and beach reading.
Even though we opened as soon as possible so eager patrons could come in and buy books, we are planning our official Grand Opening and ribbon cutting for September 12. That’s when we’ll all be able to relax and celebrate our enormous job well done.
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Good Old Sundays
By Carol Carbutti
The good old days brings to mind many images but one mention of the good old Sundays has me freeze framed in time at the immense kitchen table, Down The House as we affectionately called it. My mother was the oldest of fourteen children. She grew up in this seventeen hundreds colonial sea captains house in downtown Norwalk. It was the gathering place for the extensive family on Sundays after 12 o’clock Mass.
By one o’clock you scoped out your key position at the table after securing yourself some coffee and trying to sneak some home fries or hot stuff lingering in bacon fat. Everyone that was important in my life was there. If they weren’t there at the beginning of the festivities, they showed up near the end and stretched our good times. The kitchen door was never locked and its promised openness welcomed anyone.
We lingered for hours in many heated conversations about world events and I so miss those aunts, uncles and cousins who were great listeners and conversation catalysts. No one rushed off because there was no place to go but home for the next big Sunday supper meal. I always knew what that meal was going to be because I’d wake up to the smell of garlic, basil , and meatsballs frying in the huge sauce pan and simmering for hours. This fantastic blend of old world recipes carried to America by my ancestors smothered our pasta and the smells produced the delicious memory of last Sundays meal. It seems apparent that food is an intregal part of my trips through memory lane.
Down The House did have central heat but only central to the livingroom. Therefore the kitchen on cold wintry days had only its six burner stove to heat it. The swinging kitchen door leading to the dining room would remain closed to hold in the heat but if that wasn’t enough three or four of us would back up our fannies to the stove to roast a bit. If I was really lucky, I could convince six or eight of my family members to get a German Pinocle game going that lasted hours and produced waves of laughter.
When we managed to stay long enough, we would get invited to the dinner meal but we had to pay for that by participating in the rosary. My aunt would take the rotary phone off the hook and hang it on the curtain rod as we chose our quiet seat to meditate during the repetitious medley of prayer. From a child’s perspective the time spent on prayer was extremely long but the good times made it worth it.
It would be so wonderful to be invited for just one more old time Sunday breakfast and have the place full of all those wonderful people . The Norwalk historical society dismantled Down-The-House ten years ago and I’m told its being stored somewhere safely waiting for the right location to reassemble it. I long for those lingering Sundays when we didn’t have to go anywhere but be with your family and relate.
These memories give me warm feelings inside and threaten to encourage me to invite everyone over this Sunday for a brunch as we call it now. Although it’s not the same experience, I want to try to recapture it by nurturing family and friends through gatherings . Hopefully, my good old Sundays experiences has influenced my children and grandchildren to establish their traditions and the beat goes on…………
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A Beautiful but Surprising Summer Sunday -
By Janet Carroll Althouse
I remember one particular Summer Sunday when my two oldest girls were about 4 and 6 or maybe 5 and 7. We went to a park near our home with some other friends. There was a small creek running through this park and you know how children cannot resist playing in the water and using their imaginations to build dams and ever so many other interesting inventions. I even enjoy getting my hands and bare feet in a cool, clear stream on a hot summer day. But what was especially great about this creek was that it was filled with pollywogs. My girls were fascinated with them and whiled away the hours gathering them in whatever containers they could find. But, soon, too soon for them, the sun was slowly sliding toward the horizon and we had to leave and go home. So, they collected as many pollywogs as their father would allow them to have, and we headed home. The girls were in the back seat and had been told to sit down and not stand up. (This was before seat belts.) But being still excited from the days adventures they had a problem with sitting. Their father could sometimes be a little too spontaneous, to put it in polite terms, and as we were going through this small town, the car in front of us slammed on its brakes making it necessary for my husband to do the same, and since our youngest daughter was standing right behind him with a paper cup filled with pollywogs the back of his neck was the recipient of the cold, clammy and wriggling pollywogs. As you can imagine, this was somewhat of a surprise to him, to say the least. He jumped out of the stopped car, opened the back door, grabbed our daughter and proceeded to place a few swats to the area intended for them. Which, of course, brought tears, but not so much because the swats were painful, but because she lost her pollywogs.
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Who Do You Work For?
July always gets me to thinking. I put into perspective who I work for and who really pays my salary. You see, I work in the customer service industry and without the customer, I would be out of a job. Now this is a point I never forget because let’s face it, like everyone else I have bills to pay. In today’s economy my store fights with others for your business. What keeps my customers coming back? I hire for personality! My customers comment on their reasons for remaining “regulars”…”Your staff is so nice.” This makes me happy to hear. So why am I writing this?
July. That wonderful month when the heat is on, the flowers are in bloom, produce is “farm Fresh” fireworks are exploding and last but not least…Property Taxes are due. Now I don’t know about you but I receive the bill in the post and approach it with trepidation. How much can it possibly be? More than I want to pay! But pay I must and so to the tax office I go to pay the monies being extorted from my pocket. Yippee!
Why is it when I get to the desk I am always met by a cranky, hostile, public servant who has either NO personality, or is just plain rude? Since when does being a public servant give you “rude rights”? And God forbid if you are delinquent in your taxes…out comes the “open hostility” card. Shame on you. Judgment passed! You all know what I’m writing about. I have two words for all the town employees who feel they are so much higher on the food chain…”charm school”. I really don’t care what you think about all of us tax payers…keep your judgments and rudeness to yourself, put a smile on your face, and connect the money. Your paycheck comes from our tax dollars. Yes, indeed, YOU WORK FOR US! Get happier and kinder. It seems to have worked for the I.R.S.
Signed, I Know Who I Work For
Bobbie’s Bevy of Beauties
I think this is the time of year when most of the flowers are in full bloom. The hibiscus have begun to open up. With the way something munched on their leaves I wasn’t sure if I would have any flowers at all. But they survived and will give a very splendid display. They produced so many new plants this year that they were either given or thrown away. I couldn’t keep up with them. Half of the second round of rose buds became a delightful meal for the Japanese beetles. It’s been quite a few years since they have given me so much trouble. The black-eyed-Susan, and in my opinion one of the easiest and fastest reproducing perennials, did a turn about for the first time since I raised her. Some of them looked like their stem and leaves had been painted black. What an ugly looking mess. Told it was caused by the crazy weather we had this spring and summer. If any of you have this problem, when clean up time comes around, cut off all growth and dispose of it. Let’s get to the butterfly bush. Beginning to bloom and should do so until about the middle of October. So that means lots of pretty butterflies. All in all my gardens are filled to the brim and in splendid color.
I purchased an annual from the Dietrich Nursery which I never had before. I don’t believe it’s a new variety but one I had overlooked. Bought four of them. One went into a large planter and the other three into the ground. It’s name, Totally Tempted “Cuphea Llavea”. A mound of bright red flowers, 10-12 inches high, loves the sun and blooms continuously. Have put it on my favorite flower list.
Jimmy’s long awaited cucumbers are here. Three pickings so far. And outside of a couple he kept for himself they have been given away. And me, I’m waiting for the tomatoes and that first sandwich. Even though he put the triangular metal supports in the containers to hold up the plants, they have produced so many tomatoes that some of the stems still droop. Keep looking for the color to change from green to red.
The photo of the three tier planter shown here was originally a water fountain which no longer works. It was then given to me and I filled it with the red, pink and white begonias. A new variety of coleus is to the left, red and purple salvia in front and hosta in the back. It is one of my popular garden pieces and resides on the other side of the now non used fireplace. The other photo on the front cover is of the garden bed which is between the walk and fireplace as you enter the backyard through the gate on the north side. Begonia, portulaca, marigolds in the background, pink simplicity roses and lilies fill this area. Plus numerous decorative pieces. The frog next to the marigolds was brought home from Paris, France when our son, Keith, came to visit. This is one of my favorite beds. Constantly in bloom. Will have some more photos for the next issue.
Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien
Reverend George W. Perkins
Who was this man that helped shape Meriden’s history? He was a man of God, a law breaker, a humanist, a historian and a powerful speaker for the American right for justice and freedom for all. His versatility and dedication for freedom for all has been long forgotten. Many historians are not familiar with his live. It is time for history to be told so that he can take his rightful place in Meriden’s history.
Reverend Perkins was born in Hartford Connecticut on February 12, 1804. Does this date February 12, sound familiar? Perkins graduated from Yale University in 1824 and later graduated from Andover Theological Seminary in 1829.
The Congregational Church in Meriden issued a call to Rev. Perkins and he started his ministry at the Broad Street Church in 1841 and served until 1848. Later that year the growth of the congregation required a larger building. Some members of the church left the original building with Rev. Perkins and built a larger church on Colony Street. Other members of the original church remained at the building on Broad Street with the result that the Town of Meriden now had two congregational churches – the Center Congregational Church on Broad Street and the First Congregational Church on Colony Street.
During his career in Meriden, Rev. Perkins was engaged in abolitionist activities. He was very outspoken and was well known as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. This system was used to aid slaves in escaping from slavery to freedom in Canada. They traveled at night aided by members of the Underground Railroad who concealed them during the day. Other abolitionists aided them in their travel further north to freedom. This activity was illegal and a violation of federal law. The Fugitive Slave Law of 1793 stated that anyone convicted of violating this law would be liable for a fine of $1,000 and six months in prison plus civil damages of $1,000 for each slave lost by the owner. Rev. Perkins’ personal safety was threatened as well as his personal property for violence was quite common during this period of our history. On one occasion, Rev. Perkins successfully opposed the action of a sheriff from the Sough when he attempted to capture two escaped slaves that were living in Meriden. The sheriff returned to the South without the “property” claimed by a southern plantation owner due to Rev. Perkins efforts.
Rev. Perkins’ versatility became more evident when he wrote the first history of Meriden in 1849. “Historical Sketches of Meriden” has been used by historians ever since. His reason for this effort was explained in the preface of his book. “The compiler of the following pages, prepared a few historical sketches or reminiscences of Meriden as a substitute for a Thanksgiving sermon: for the dreary sight of empty seats, on those annual occasions in a house usually full, left him no heart to preach on that day. Quite to his astonishment, the hearers were enough interested in the sketches to ask for their publication with such additions as might be accessible.” Perkins was an author of other books and many of his sermons were published.
Rev. Perkins left Meriden in 1854 to accept a call from the First Congregational Church of Chicago. He also worked as a editor for a newspaper and he is known as one of the founders of the theological seminary in Chicago. His career and life in Chicago were tragically cut short for he died November 13, 1856. He always considered Meriden as his home and his body was returned to Meriden. The Perkins family plot is in the West Cemetery of Meriden. Many years later, when his gravestone became too worn to repair, the members of the First Congregational Church of Meriden replaced it with an appropriate monument inscribed with a sincere tribute to his memory.
Kenneth Cowing
Wallingford Center, Inc. Receives 2008 Best of Wallingford Award
U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON, D.C., June 25, 2008 – Wallingford Center, Inc. has been selected for the 2008 Best pf Wallingford Award in the Building Restoration & Preservation category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).
The USLBA ”Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)
U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington, D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
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