Meriden Wallingford Town News July 2009
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Wallingford’s Mayor’s Corner
Dear Friends:
June is a month that reminds us of the Latin verb recipe, which means “take”. Medieval scholars and physicians wrote in Latin, and every prescription which listed ingredients for compounding medicines began with the verb recipe. Recipe has a less scientific orientation in modern usage as it refers to food preparation, but whether we use the old or the current meaning, June’s graduations have us listing ingredients and “taking” a wonderful collection of men and women, young and old, and applauding their achievements. It is a recipe for profound pride and optimism.
Our own Lyman Hall and Sheehan High School graduation ceremonies, conducted on Thursday evening under sunny skies and in sky high spirits, remind us how important our students are to us. The Project Graduation, planned by volunteers and the Youth and Social Services Department, enabled approximately 350 graduates to enjoy food, games, prizes, laughter and time together. We appreciate the contributions of Jackie Podeswa (coordinator and entertainment), Nancy Albee (coordinator with government departments), Glen Procter (volunteer coordinator), Lori Holda (fundraising), Annette Hyland (registration and permission),
Bill and Sheri Mack (publicity), Sandy Sieputowski (food), and many others including Craig Turner (Youth and Social Services Director). The evening was a recipe of success. May our graduates “take” our sincere good wishes and high hopes as they continue to taste what life offers.
Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor
Meriden Mayor’s Corner
School is out and the “hazy, lazy days of summer” are upon us. I remember when I was young, we couldn’t wait for school to be over to enjoy the carefree days of fun in the sun. This summer in Meriden, there are free summer camps for children at Baldwins Pond and Habershon Field starting on June 29 (8:30 AM to 3 PM). Registration is daily at the camps at 8:30 AM.
Have fun at the Water Park on Park and Franklin Streets in City Park. The Water Park is open Noon to 4 PM, Monday to Saturday and 2-5 PM Sundays. The Skate Board Park on Coe Avenue is open daily from 11 AM to dusk. Also enjoy the many Playscapes at our parks throughout Meriden and especially the new Hubbard Park Playscape “Adventure Hollow” that features a climbing wall and rope climb.
You can take a scenic walk along the Quinnipiac Linear Trail and walk across Red Bridge. There are also interesting walking trails in Hubbard Park, Giuffrida Park, and along the ridges overlooking Meriden.
The Hubbard Park pool is open daily noon to 6:45 PM. Pool passes are required and can be obtained from the Parks and Recreation office on Liberty St.
Enjoy fishing at Mirror Lake in Hubbard Park, Baldwins Pond, Black Pond, Crescent Lake, Hanover Pond, the Quinnipiac River, and Silver Lake. Also, you can take a canoe or kayak trip down the Quinnipiac River or on Hanover Pond. Picknicking at our parks is also a favorite activity. Get outdoors and enjoy nature!
On July 9, at the Hubbard Park Bandshell at 6:30 PM, the Eddie Forman Band will present a free concert of Polish Music. Come on out and Polka the evening away!
When I was a kid, summer seemed to linger forever. As we get older, time flies by so we need to take time to enjoy the natural resources available to us. Make plans now!
For more information about summer activities contact the Meriden Parks Department at 630-4259 or the Hot Line at 630-4279.
Have a happy and safe summer!
Mike Rohde
Mayor of Meriden
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Wallingford Senior Center
July 2009 Edition
Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at http://www.wlfdseniorctr.com/
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on July 1, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at the Senior Center. Volunteers are needed to help run the canteen, make sandwiches, and provide baked goods for the donors. Registration and escort volunteers are also needed. Please sign up if you can help in any way. Also, blood donors are needed. There is no upper age limit. As long as you are in good health, you can donate blood. Give the gift of life. Call 1-800-448-3543 to schedule your appointment.
EVENING “R” BAND CONCERTS
Thursdays, July 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 PM
Our most popular summer event, the “R” Band concert series, returns for four evenings in July. Under the direction of Patricia Lignelli, the “R” Band is a community band sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department. These talented musicians will thoroughly entertain you!
SUMMER PARTY FEATURING THE PRICE IS RIGHT!
Friday, July 31, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
“Come on down” and have yourself a good old time at our annual summer party. Join “Bill” Barker and Barker’s Beauties in our own version of the popular TV game show before you enjoy the fabulous buffet featuring barbequed half chicken, roasted potatoes, baked beans, coleslaw, Southern cornbread muffins, apple pie and beverages, as well as music for listening and dancing. Tickets are $10.00 for members and $15.00 for guests, and are on sale July 1 through July 24, or until sold out. Food, fun and prizes – what more could you want! See you July 31!
PAINT A PICTURE IN 3 HOURS!
Thursday, July 16, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Using the Bob Ross method, art instructor Candy Kozak will help you create a painting in just one session! No previous painting experience is needed. All supplies will be provided for you – just bring a roll of paper towels and wear some old clothes. The cost of this session is $25.00. Space is limited, so sign up today!
Wii BOWLING CHALLENGE
Thursday, July 23, 10:00 AM
We are still in training to get into shape for the HealthNet Statewide Wii Bowling Challenge that begins later this summer. This month we have challenged the virtual bowlers from the Meriden Senior Center to a friendly tournament on July 23. Please sign up in advance if you would like to participate. Trophies will be awarded to the winning teams.
Computer Classes: (Registration will be held Monday, July 6, 9:00 -11:00 AM and on Wednesday, July 8, 1:00 – 3:00 PM.)
Computers 101: Basic Skills: Learn how to use the mouse and other basic computer functions. Schedule: July 13, 15, 20, 22 and 23, 9:30 – 11:30 AM. Fee: $30.00
Computers 102: Introduction to Word Processing: Learn how to format, edit, save and print documents. Computers 101 or previous computer experience required. Schedule: August 3, 5, 10, 12 and 13, 9:30 – 11:30 AM. Fee: $30.00.
Computers 103: Personalizing Your Computer: Learn file management, how to maintain your computer, and how to modify the desktop, start menu and task bars. Schedule: August 24, 26, 31, September 2 and 3, 9:30 – 11:30 AM. Fee: $30.00.
SERVICES:
DAILY ACTIVITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM
Can you sing or dance or play a musical instrument? Are you a storyteller or comedian? The Daily Activities for Independence program is looking for volunteers who are willing to share their talents with us. You tell us the length of time and when to expect you and we’ll be ready! Variety is the spice of life! Are you familiar with that old saying, “many hands make light work?” We are asking for volunteers to assist with arts & crafts projects preferably after lunch on Wednesdays. We are also currently in need of donations of smooth, round river rocks (no larger than a compact disc) for a paper weight/gardening project. Please contact Melinda Welch, D.A.I. coordinator at 265.7753 ext. 205 with any questions. Thank you to everyone who recently donated various items to our program. These donations allow us to continue to keep the Daily Activities for Independence program fun and exciting for everyone.
SOCIAL SERVICES
IN ORDER TO SERVE YOU BETTER, PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE SOCIAL WORKER, EILEEN FLYNN, AT 265 7753. THANK YOU.
VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, July 28, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753.
ANGEL FOOD MINISTRIES
Where can you go to get $70-$75 worth of food for $30? The answer is Angel Food Ministries, based out of Good News Christian Church in Wallingford. This great program has been a huge success in helping families “make ends meet” all over the country. Angel Food Ministries offers restaurant grade food without meeting income qualifications or completing applications. Food Stamps are accepted. Look for menus and information at the senior center on the Member Interest Table.
BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, July 21, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting Documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment: 1. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses not covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Registration required. Call now 265 7753 to schedule an appointment.
MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM
The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income and asset guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium of $96.40. The guidelines for this year are as follows:
INCOME ASSETS
Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB)
Single $1,181.00 $4,000.00
Couple $1,771.00 $6,000.00
Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
Single $1,361.50 $4,000.00
Couple $2,014.00 $6,000.00
Additional Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (ALMB/QI)
Single $1,497.05 No Cap
Couple $2,196.25 No Cap
If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay the $96.40 premium. Please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753 to schedule an appointment or to receive additional information.
ConnPACE
ConnPACE is the State of Connecticut Pharmaceutical Program and the guidelines change each year. The Income Limit for 2009 is: Single person $25,100.00 year, Couple Income $33,800.00. This includes all forms of income, such as Social Security, Pension, Interest or dividend income, etc. There is no asset limit at this time. For additional information or an appointment, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
NO SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS WILL BE HELD IN JULY OR AUGUST. HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!
RENTERS REBATE PROGRAM
APPLICATION PERIOD: May 15 through September 15
WHERE: Assessor’s Office - Town Hall TELEPHONE: 294-2001
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
MAX E. MURAVNICK
MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
The 39th annual Special Day for Special People was held in Hubbard Park on Saturday, June 13. The event is funded by contributions from Meriden businesses, clubs and civic organizations and I would like to express our appreciation to all of this year’s sponsors: Meriden Elks Lodge #35, First Congregational Church Women’s Fellowship, Suzio Concrete Co., City Mission Trustees, Jonal Laboratories, Beecher and Bennett, Suzio Insurance Center, Civitan Club, John J. Ferry and Sons, Castle Bank, Meriden Lions Club, Meriden AARP Chapter 2954, Hunters Ambulance, Broad Street Dairy Queen Brazier, United Oil Recovery, Canberra, Franco American Club, Knights of Columbus, Meriden Shop Rite and the American Legion Auxiliary. On behalf of all of the Meriden seniors who enjoyed this year’s picnic, thank you for your generous support!
The 2009 Meriden Senior Citizens’ Award Scholarship of $500 was presented at the Senior Center on June 3 to Catherine Esposito who graduated in June from Francis T. Maloney High School. She will attend the University of New Haven this fall. Members of the scholarship committee are Senior Center members Anne Aniskiewicz, Ellie Dessureau, Jenny Corriveau and Carol Foley who raise money for the scholarship throughout the year and also choose the scholarship winner. The 2009 Willene Everett Scholarship of $500 was presented to Damian Roesler by Steve Everett in a ceremony at the Senior Center on June 8. The scholarship was established in 1998 in honor and memory of Mrs. Everett for her many years of dedicated service to the community as the Director of Elderly Nutrition at the Senior Center and for her 31 years as a valued employee of the Meriden Community Action Agency. Damian graduated in June from Platt High School and plans to attend Colgate University in the fall.
Senior Center staff members are continuing to take applications for the Rent Relief Program (“Circuit Breaker”) sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2008 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. If you were a renter age 65 or over during 2008, or on Social Security Disability, you may be eligible to receive a benefit. Application hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.
An AARP Driver Safety Class will be held at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 22 and Friday, July 24 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the mezzanine. There are still several openings and interested people are asked to sign-up by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. The cost of the class is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members and completion of the two day refresher training course entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will sponsor “Learn How to Surf the Medicare Website” on Wednesday, July 29 at 10:30 am. Scott Berney from Anthem will teach you how to register on the Medicare site, view the “Medicare and You” handbook, search Medicare billing, file an appeal, order a replacement Medicare card, find a local provider, compare Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance plans and rates, find and compare Medicare Part D drug plans and use other tools on the site. Scott will bring his laptop and a projector and help you learn all that is available on the internet for your use. The program will be held in the first floor meeting room and interested people are asked to sign-up in the office if you are planning to attend. Since the program is learning how to surf, Scott will wear his Hawaiian shirt and pass out lei’s and other giveaways to those who attend so I hope you will be interested in attending! Sign-up today by calling 237-0066.
John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
June 24, 2009
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Public Health Funding and Executive Order no. 26
What’s the Connection?
Eloise Hazelwood, RS, MPH
Director of Health, Town of Wallingford
By now everyone has heard at least some of the “chatter” concerning budget cuts and Local Health funding (aka Per Capita funds) is no exception. Local health receives funds from the State to ensure that our essential public health core services (Health Statistics, Communicable and Chronic Disease Control, Health Education, Environmental Services, Nutritional Services, Community Nursing Maternal and Child Health, Emergency Medical Services) are provided in the community.
The funds do not cover the full costs of providing these services (Health Districts currently receive $2.06 and Full Time Health Depts. receive $1.18 based on population). The dollar amount allocated was never intended to cover the full cost of providing these services; municipalities must contribute to the cost regardless of status (Health District, Full or Part time Health Dept).
CT is now faced with a deficit budget and ALL agencies will be asked to do more with less. Nothing new here! What is new is the elimination of funding (not reduction) to Local Health based on an arbitrary defined minimum population. What does this mean? To simplify it, it means that if you live in a community with less than 50,000 and have a Full Time Health Dept (like Wallingford or Southington) the State will no longer provide your municipality with the meager supplemental $1.18. This number is fluid, so don’t sit back and say “not my city” as today the number is 50,000 but tomorrow it maybe 75,000 (yes, it changes that quickly because it’s arbitrary!)
This proposal points out the lack of understanding concerning mandated public health services and the functions local health provides, regardless of zip code or population size. The “substance” of public health is the organization of community efforts aimed at the prevention of disease and the promotion of health. All residents deserve equal funding for Public Health Services, such as safe water, food, septic, monitoring of communicable disease and a local presence in the community.
But it doesn’t stop here. CT Department Public Health has historically supported, legislatively, the fee structure that provides Health Districts with more per capita then Health Departments. This was established more than 40 years ago as a financial incentive to encourage health departments to join Districts. However, this financial incentive has not worked, as there are currently 28 part time health depts. and 32 full time health departments.
So now what? So that’s the connection of the per capita fee structure and Executive Order no. 26 ! The Governor recently issued Executive Order no. 26. establishing the “Governor’s Council for Local Health Regionalization” that calls for the creation of a special Council to report on the most practical means to regionalize the public health care system within 6 months. That’s right, 6 months!
The Governor further tasked the CT Association of Director’s of Health (CADH), of which I am a member, with appointing three (3) local public health directors as representation to this Council. Rick Matheny, President CADH, and the CADH Board stated that we need to advocate for a review of what is the best mechanism to provide needed public health services and how and at what level local health should be funded and supported. I could not agree more! However, that is NOT the edict of Executive Order no. 26.
The edict is flawed in that it assumes Regionalization (mega-districts) to be the most effective and efficient structure to deliver Public Health Services. Bigger is NOT always better. Hopefully those that crafted the objective for the Governor’s Order (Public Health Regionalization) acknowledge the language is divisive and contentious. It is no too late for CT DPH to recommend to the Governor’s office amended language.
As an example, the Council should be tasked to identify public health services that readily lend themselves to regionalization, such as delivery of Health Education, Community Nursing, and Chronic Disease Control. These mandated services are already delivered across town lines and not necessarily under the guidance of local public health. This seems like a logical place to start! What’s the old saying “don’t throw out the baby with the bath water”. Let’s look at what works and what’s already in place.
Ultimately the amended language should task the Council with the review of the essential Public Health Services as defined in the CT General Statute and how best to deliver those services (effectiveness and cost efficiency). This language has been supported by CADH as opposed to the current language “Submit a regionalization plan within 6 months”.
Regionalized Public Health will eliminate by law (statutory language) a Town’s ability to function as a stand alone Health Department, with or without per capita funding. Executive Order no. 26 is a veiled mechanism to force districting on a larger scale or mega-districts.
Unfortunately it is doubtful that we will have an impact on restoring the per capita funds. But it is not too late to direct our efforts towards educating the others legislatively and locally concerning the task of Executive Order no. 26. The current language is flawed and needs to be amended so that we in local health (Districts, Full-time and Part-time) can continue to work together for the improvement of public health for ALL residents.
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Wallingford’s Mayor’s Corner
Dear Friends:
June is a month that reminds us of the Latin verb recipe, which means “take”. Medieval scholars and physicians wrote in Latin, and every prescription which listed ingredients for compounding medicines began with the verb recipe. Recipe has a less scientific orientation in modern usage as it refers to food preparation, but whether we use the old or the current meaning, June’s graduations have us listing ingredients and “taking” a wonderful collection of men and women, young and old, and applauding their achievements. It is a recipe for profound pride and optimism.
Our own Lyman Hall and Sheehan High School graduation ceremonies, conducted on Thursday evening under sunny skies and in sky high spirits, remind us how important our students are to us. The Project Graduation, planned by volunteers and the Youth and Social Services Department, enabled approximately 350 graduates to enjoy food, games, prizes, laughter and time together. We appreciate the contributions of Jackie Podeswa (coordinator and entertainment), Nancy Albee (coordinator with government departments), Glen Procter (volunteer coordinator), Lori Holda (fundraising), Annette Hyland (registration and permission),
Bill and Sheri Mack (publicity), Sandy Sieputowski (food), and many others including Craig Turner (Youth and Social Services Director). The evening was a recipe of success. May our graduates “take” our sincere good wishes and high hopes as they continue to taste what life offers.Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor
Meriden Mayor’s Corner
School is out and the “hazy, lazy days of summer” are upon us. I remember when I was young, we couldn’t wait for school to be over to enjoy the carefree days of fun in the sun. This summer in Meriden, there are free summer camps for children at Baldwins Pond and Habershon Field starting on June 29 (8:30 AM to 3 PM). Registration is daily at the camps at 8:30 AM.
Have fun at the Water Park on Park and Franklin Streets in City Park. The Water Park is open Noon to 4 PM, Monday to Saturday and 2-5 PM Sundays. The Skate Board Park on Coe Avenue is open daily from 11 AM to dusk. Also enjoy the many Playscapes at our parks throughout Meriden and especially the new Hubbard Park Playscape “Adventure Hollow” that features a climbing wall and rope climb.
You can take a scenic walk along the Quinnipiac Linear Trail and walk across Red Bridge. There are also interesting walking trails in Hubbard Park, Giuffrida Park, and along the ridges overlooking Meriden.
The Hubbard Park pool is open daily noon to 6:45 PM. Pool passes are required and can be obtained from the Parks and Recreation office on Liberty St.
Enjoy fishing at Mirror Lake in Hubbard Park, Baldwins Pond, Black Pond, Crescent Lake, Hanover Pond, the Quinnipiac River, and Silver Lake. Also, you can take a canoe or kayak trip down the Quinnipiac River or on Hanover Pond. Picknicking at our parks is also a favorite activity. Get outdoors and enjoy nature!
On July 9, at the Hubbard Park Bandshell at 6:30 PM, the Eddie Forman Band will present a free concert of Polish Music. Come on out and Polka the evening away!
When I was a kid, summer seemed to linger forever. As we get older, time flies by so we need to take time to enjoy the natural resources available to us. Make plans now!
For more information about summer activities contact the Meriden Parks Department at 630-4259 or the Hot Line at 630-4279.
Have a happy and safe summer!
Mike Rohde
Mayor of Meriden
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Wallingford Senior Center
July 2009 Edition
Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at http://www.wlfdseniorctr.com/
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on July 1, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at the Senior Center. Volunteers are needed to help run the canteen, make sandwiches, and provide baked goods for the donors. Registration and escort volunteers are also needed. Please sign up if you can help in any way. Also, blood donors are needed. There is no upper age limit. As long as you are in good health, you can donate blood. Give the gift of life. Call 1-800-448-3543 to schedule your appointment.
EVENING “R” BAND CONCERTS
Thursdays, July 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 PM
Our most popular summer event, the “R” Band concert series, returns for four evenings in July. Under the direction of Patricia Lignelli, the “R” Band is a community band sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department. These talented musicians will thoroughly entertain you!
SUMMER PARTY FEATURING THE PRICE IS RIGHT!
Friday, July 31, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
“Come on down” and have yourself a good old time at our annual summer party. Join “Bill” Barker and Barker’s Beauties in our own version of the popular TV game show before you enjoy the fabulous buffet featuring barbequed half chicken, roasted potatoes, baked beans, coleslaw, Southern cornbread muffins, apple pie and beverages, as well as music for listening and dancing. Tickets are $10.00 for members and $15.00 for guests, and are on sale July 1 through July 24, or until sold out. Food, fun and prizes – what more could you want! See you July 31!
PAINT A PICTURE IN 3 HOURS!
Thursday, July 16, 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Using the Bob Ross method, art instructor Candy Kozak will help you create a painting in just one session! No previous painting experience is needed. All supplies will be provided for you – just bring a roll of paper towels and wear some old clothes. The cost of this session is $25.00. Space is limited, so sign up today!
Wii BOWLING CHALLENGE
Thursday, July 23, 10:00 AM
We are still in training to get into shape for the HealthNet Statewide Wii Bowling Challenge that begins later this summer. This month we have challenged the virtual bowlers from the Meriden Senior Center to a friendly tournament on July 23. Please sign up in advance if you would like to participate. Trophies will be awarded to the winning teams.
Computer Classes: (Registration will be held Monday, July 6, 9:00 -11:00 AM and on Wednesday, July 8, 1:00 – 3:00 PM.)
Computers 101: Basic Skills: Learn how to use the mouse and other basic computer functions. Schedule: July 13, 15, 20, 22 and 23, 9:30 – 11:30 AM. Fee: $30.00
Computers 102: Introduction to Word Processing: Learn how to format, edit, save and print documents. Computers 101 or previous computer experience required. Schedule: August 3, 5, 10, 12 and 13, 9:30 – 11:30 AM. Fee: $30.00.
Computers 103: Personalizing Your Computer: Learn file management, how to maintain your computer, and how to modify the desktop, start menu and task bars. Schedule: August 24, 26, 31, September 2 and 3, 9:30 – 11:30 AM. Fee: $30.00.
SERVICES:
DAILY ACTIVITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM
Can you sing or dance or play a musical instrument? Are you a storyteller or comedian? The Daily Activities for Independence program is looking for volunteers who are willing to share their talents with us. You tell us the length of time and when to expect you and we’ll be ready! Variety is the spice of life! Are you familiar with that old saying, “many hands make light work?” We are asking for volunteers to assist with arts & crafts projects preferably after lunch on Wednesdays. We are also currently in need of donations of smooth, round river rocks (no larger than a compact disc) for a paper weight/gardening project. Please contact Melinda Welch, D.A.I. coordinator at 265.7753 ext. 205 with any questions. Thank you to everyone who recently donated various items to our program. These donations allow us to continue to keep the Daily Activities for Independence program fun and exciting for everyone.
SOCIAL SERVICES
IN ORDER TO SERVE YOU BETTER, PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE SOCIAL WORKER, EILEEN FLYNN, AT 265 7753. THANK YOU.
VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, July 28, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753.
ANGEL FOOD MINISTRIES
Where can you go to get $70-$75 worth of food for $30? The answer is Angel Food Ministries, based out of Good News Christian Church in Wallingford. This great program has been a huge success in helping families “make ends meet” all over the country. Angel Food Ministries offers restaurant grade food without meeting income qualifications or completing applications. Food Stamps are accepted. Look for menus and information at the senior center on the Member Interest Table.
BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, July 21, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting Documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment: 1. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses not covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Registration required. Call now 265 7753 to schedule an appointment.
MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM
The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income and asset guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium of $96.40. The guidelines for this year are as follows:
INCOME ASSETS
Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB)
Single $1,181.00 $4,000.00
Couple $1,771.00 $6,000.00
Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
Single $1,361.50 $4,000.00
Couple $2,014.00 $6,000.00
Additional Low Income Medicare Beneficiary (ALMB/QI)
Single $1,497.05 No Cap
Couple $2,196.25 No Cap
If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay the $96.40 premium. Please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753 to schedule an appointment or to receive additional information.
ConnPACE
ConnPACE is the State of Connecticut Pharmaceutical Program and the guidelines change each year. The Income Limit for 2009 is: Single person $25,100.00 year, Couple Income $33,800.00. This includes all forms of income, such as Social Security, Pension, Interest or dividend income, etc. There is no asset limit at this time. For additional information or an appointment, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker, at 265-7753
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
NO SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS WILL BE HELD IN JULY OR AUGUST. HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!
RENTERS REBATE PROGRAM
APPLICATION PERIOD: May 15 through September 15
WHERE: Assessor’s Office - Town Hall TELEPHONE: 294-2001
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
MAX E. MURAVNICK
MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
The 39th annual Special Day for Special People was held in Hubbard Park on Saturday, June 13. The event is funded by contributions from Meriden businesses, clubs and civic organizations and I would like to express our appreciation to all of this year’s sponsors: Meriden Elks Lodge #35, First Congregational Church Women’s Fellowship, Suzio Concrete Co., City Mission Trustees, Jonal Laboratories, Beecher and Bennett, Suzio Insurance Center, Civitan Club, John J. Ferry and Sons, Castle Bank, Meriden Lions Club, Meriden AARP Chapter 2954, Hunters Ambulance, Broad Street Dairy Queen Brazier, United Oil Recovery, Canberra, Franco American Club, Knights of Columbus, Meriden Shop Rite and the American Legion Auxiliary. On behalf of all of the Meriden seniors who enjoyed this year’s picnic, thank you for your generous support!
The 2009 Meriden Senior Citizens’ Award Scholarship of $500 was presented at the Senior Center on June 3 to Catherine Esposito who graduated in June from Francis T. Maloney High School. She will attend the University of New Haven this fall. Members of the scholarship committee are Senior Center members Anne Aniskiewicz, Ellie Dessureau, Jenny Corriveau and Carol Foley who raise money for the scholarship throughout the year and also choose the scholarship winner. The 2009 Willene Everett Scholarship of $500 was presented to Damian Roesler by Steve Everett in a ceremony at the Senior Center on June 8. The scholarship was established in 1998 in honor and memory of Mrs. Everett for her many years of dedicated service to the community as the Director of Elderly Nutrition at the Senior Center and for her 31 years as a valued employee of the Meriden Community Action Agency. Damian graduated in June from Platt High School and plans to attend Colgate University in the fall.
Senior Center staff members are continuing to take applications for the Rent Relief Program (“Circuit Breaker”) sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2008 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. If you were a renter age 65 or over during 2008, or on Social Security Disability, you may be eligible to receive a benefit. Application hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.
An AARP Driver Safety Class will be held at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 22 and Friday, July 24 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the mezzanine. There are still several openings and interested people are asked to sign-up by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066. The cost of the class is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members and completion of the two day refresher training course entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will sponsor “Learn How to Surf the Medicare Website” on Wednesday, July 29 at 10:30 am. Scott Berney from Anthem will teach you how to register on the Medicare site, view the “Medicare and You” handbook, search Medicare billing, file an appeal, order a replacement Medicare card, find a local provider, compare Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance plans and rates, find and compare Medicare Part D drug plans and use other tools on the site. Scott will bring his laptop and a projector and help you learn all that is available on the internet for your use. The program will be held in the first floor meeting room and interested people are asked to sign-up in the office if you are planning to attend. Since the program is learning how to surf, Scott will wear his Hawaiian shirt and pass out lei’s and other giveaways to those who attend so I hope you will be interested in attending! Sign-up today by calling 237-0066.
John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
June 24, 2009
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Public Health Funding and Executive Order no. 26
What’s the Connection?
Eloise Hazelwood, RS, MPH
Director of Health, Town of Wallingford
By now everyone has heard at least some of the “chatter” concerning budget cuts and Local Health funding (aka Per Capita funds) is no exception. Local health receives funds from the State to ensure that our essential public health core services (Health Statistics, Communicable and Chronic Disease Control, Health Education, Environmental Services, Nutritional Services, Community Nursing Maternal and Child Health, Emergency Medical Services) are provided in the community.
The funds do not cover the full costs of providing these services (Health Districts currently receive $2.06 and Full Time Health Depts. receive $1.18 based on population). The dollar amount allocated was never intended to cover the full cost of providing these services; municipalities must contribute to the cost regardless of status (Health District, Full or Part time Health Dept).
CT is now faced with a deficit budget and ALL agencies will be asked to do more with less. Nothing new here! What is new is the elimination of funding (not reduction) to Local Health based on an arbitrary defined minimum population. What does this mean? To simplify it, it means that if you live in a community with less than 50,000 and have a Full Time Health Dept (like Wallingford or Southington) the State will no longer provide your municipality with the meager supplemental $1.18. This number is fluid, so don’t sit back and say “not my city” as today the number is 50,000 but tomorrow it maybe 75,000 (yes, it changes that quickly because it’s arbitrary!)
This proposal points out the lack of understanding concerning mandated public health services and the functions local health provides, regardless of zip code or population size. The “substance” of public health is the organization of community efforts aimed at the prevention of disease and the promotion of health. All residents deserve equal funding for Public Health Services, such as safe water, food, septic, monitoring of communicable disease and a local presence in the community.
But it doesn’t stop here. CT Department Public Health has historically supported, legislatively, the fee structure that provides Health Districts with more per capita then Health Departments. This was established more than 40 years ago as a financial incentive to encourage health departments to join Districts. However, this financial incentive has not worked, as there are currently 28 part time health depts. and 32 full time health departments.
So now what? So that’s the connection of the per capita fee structure and Executive Order no. 26 ! The Governor recently issued Executive Order no. 26. establishing the “Governor’s Council for Local Health Regionalization” that calls for the creation of a special Council to report on the most practical means to regionalize the public health care system within 6 months. That’s right, 6 months!
The Governor further tasked the CT Association of Director’s of Health (CADH), of which I am a member, with appointing three (3) local public health directors as representation to this Council. Rick Matheny, President CADH, and the CADH Board stated that we need to advocate for a review of what is the best mechanism to provide needed public health services and how and at what level local health should be funded and supported. I could not agree more! However, that is NOT the edict of Executive Order no. 26.
The edict is flawed in that it assumes Regionalization (mega-districts) to be the most effective and efficient structure to deliver Public Health Services. Bigger is NOT always better. Hopefully those that crafted the objective for the Governor’s Order (Public Health Regionalization) acknowledge the language is divisive and contentious. It is no too late for CT DPH to recommend to the Governor’s office amended language.
As an example, the Council should be tasked to identify public health services that readily lend themselves to regionalization, such as delivery of Health Education, Community Nursing, and Chronic Disease Control. These mandated services are already delivered across town lines and not necessarily under the guidance of local public health. This seems like a logical place to start! What’s the old saying “don’t throw out the baby with the bath water”. Let’s look at what works and what’s already in place.
Ultimately the amended language should task the Council with the review of the essential Public Health Services as defined in the CT General Statute and how best to deliver those services (effectiveness and cost efficiency). This language has been supported by CADH as opposed to the current language “Submit a regionalization plan within 6 months”.
Regionalized Public Health will eliminate by law (statutory language) a Town’s ability to function as a stand alone Health Department, with or without per capita funding. Executive Order no. 26 is a veiled mechanism to force districting on a larger scale or mega-districts.
Unfortunately it is doubtful that we will have an impact on restoring the per capita funds. But it is not too late to direct our efforts towards educating the others legislatively and locally concerning the task of Executive Order no. 26. The current language is flawed and needs to be amended so that we in local health (Districts, Full-time and Part-time) can continue to work together for the improvement of public health for ALL residents.
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
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Labels: meriden wallingford newspaper, meriden wallingford newspaper news connecticut, the peoples press
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