Meriden Wallingford Town News September 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!
MAYOR’S CORNER MERIDEN
I have often wondered how we ever functioned effectively without the modern communication gadgets that we have today. I have a cell phone and Blackberry that are my constant companions. There are times that I am on three calls at once when I get a call at home and simultaneous calls on my wireless phones. This is crazy! I also get text messages as well.
Additionally I have a PC and Mac at home, and a PC at work. I also have a printer, fax machine, and copier along with my digital camera.
So again, how did we survive without all these "necessary" communication devices? Well, things were a lot slower. Snail mail was the norm, we sent letters instead of emails. We wrote messages down and called people back. We often made repeated calls before voice mail was invented. Seems pretty outdated and so long ago that we were in such a different communication mode.
But for me, it's been fantastic to have lived through this communication revolution and to be able to take advantage of it. My children and grandchildren live in California but we have live video chats where we can see and hear them and they can hear and see us on the computer in real time! I talk to my dad in Florida for free on weekends and nights on my cell phone. We can email pictures and videos. All this technology is breathtaking and makes one wonder where is it all leading? Will doctors insert communications systems in our bodies at birth so we won't even need cell phones?
We are in a brave new world and our challenge now is to ensure that our machines work for us and that we not become slaves to our machines. But make no mistake about it, we have made a giant leap in communication technology and there is no going back to the old days!
Enjoy the ride!
Finally, schools are open, keep an eye out for the little ones and drive carefully in school zones.
Mike Rohde
Mayor
________________________________________________________________________________________________
MAYOR’S CORNER WALLINGFORD
August 27, 2009
Dear Friends:
This Fall is a perfect time to take advantage of the programs, trips and events offered by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department. This year the Parks and Recreation Department, Public Celebrations Committee and the Wallingford YMCA have teamed up for the Fishbein Community Day Road Race followed by Family Day at Doolittle Park. This fun day of events will be Saturday, September 12th with the race beginning at 8:30 a.m. and Family Day beginning at Noon. Family Day is will be an exciting event with entertainment including Curious Creatures, (animal demonstration), Stitch (magic and improv), CT Parents Choice Award Winner Les Julian and local band The Blue Agaves.
To continue the fun that weekend, we look forward to seeing many of the “young triathletes” compete on Sunday, September 13th in the Kids Off Road Triathlon, which will be at Choate beginning at 9:00 a.m. If it is a destination you are looking for, look at the voyagers and trips section of the Parks and Recreation Fall 2009 brochure. This brochure also provides opportunities in early childhood, adaptive recreation, sports, health and fitness, and the arts (performing, visual and fine). We hope you find something you can enjoy this season.
Celebrate Wallingford will be held on October 3rd and 4th. As always, there will be lots to see and do. New this year is a “Little Miss and Mister Wallingford” Contest for children between the ages of 4 and 7 by September 1, 2009 sponsored by the Wallingford Jr. Womans Organization. There will be “Circus Theme” activities for children and the “Taste of Wallingford” with approximately 12 vendors representing Wallingford restaurants and organizations. Bands include Triple Play and Bluzberry Pie on Saturday, and Cover Story and River Street Band on Sunday. Please call WCI for additional information.
This will be a wonderful time to enjoy Downtown and meet friends. I am looking forward to seeing during the Fall.
Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events
SENIOR CENTERS MAKE A CONNECTION!
September is National Senior Center Month. Sponsored by the National Institute of Senior Centers, this year’s theme is “Senior Centers Make a Connection!” The Wallingford Senior Center offers many ways you can connect with people, programs, and services to enhance your life. We have planned a number of special programs this month designed to help you make or improve meaningful connections. Read on!
THE HUMAN CONNECTION: SEXUALITY AND THE AGING PROCESS
Wednesday, September 9, 10:00 AM
Join VNA of Wallingford social worker Amy Benfer, LCSW, and nurse Chris More, RN, for a light and informative discussion about human sexuality and the aging process. Throughout our lifetime, touch, affection, and intimacy remain important needs for maintaining good physical and emotional health. Loss of loved ones, medical complications, and lack of available partners can make it difficult to meet those needs. Some of the topics that will be discussed include: meeting new people and dating again; new ways to look at sexuality; staying safe and healthy; and physical touch can keep you smiling. The presenters will be available after the session for individual questions.
THE HUMAN CONNECTION: MEN’S HEALTH & SEXUALITY
Wednesday, September 23, 10:00 AM
Urologist Dr. Stephen B. Siegel will discuss a variety of men’s health issues including prostate health, erectile dysfunction, and what those constant trips to the bathroom can signal. All are welcome to attend this program sponsored by MidState Medical Center.
THE HUMAN CONNECTION: WOMEN’S HEALTH & SEXUALITY
Wednesday, September 30, 10:00 AM
Dr. Joseph A. Peccerillo, gynecologist, will discuss a variety of post menopausal health issues for women including vaginal atrophy, painful intercourse, low sex drive and more. Dr. Peccerillo will provide the answers to questions you may have been too embarrassed to ask. This program is sponsored by MidState Medical Center.
FREE AND LOW COST HOME REPAIRS
Tuesday, September 8, 1:00 PM
Home Solutions provides free and low cost repairs for qualifying senior homeowners who might need a new roof, heating system, bathroom or even a handicap ramp in order to remain safely in their homes. The program can pay up to $10,000 for work on a single family home or $20,000 on a two-family home. Call the senior center at 265-7753 to register to attend this informational program. If you are interested in starting the application process prior to the program on September 8, please call 1-860-560-5800.
WELCOME BACK PARTY
Thursday, September 17, 11:00 AM – 12 Noon
Say good-bye to summer, hello to autumn, and connect with friends at our Welcome Back Party! And, with the help of The Inner Rhythm band directed by Dick Santo, you can connect with your favorite songs! Inner Rhythm’s music is sure to stir up old memories starting with tunes from the 40’s right on up to the present. Tickets are $1.00 for members and $2.00 for guests. Refreshments will be provided to all ticketholders. Purchase your ticket at the front desk by September 15, and come kick-off another great fall season at your senior center.
CONNECTICUT MONEY SCHOOL PROGRAMS
The CT Money School provides free financial information for older adults with the goal of assisting people to become financially stable and successful. Join us for one or all three of the programs listed below.
(1) PAY YOURSELF FIRST
Thursday, September 10, 10:00 AM
Nancy Goman, Branch Manager of Webster Bank will present tips on living on a fixed income, and will offer suggestions on how to stretch your income. To register, please call 265-7753.
(2) PROJECT HOMESHARE
Tuesday, September 15, 10:00 AM
Dolores Bush, Coordinator of Project Homeshare from the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut will provide information on this state-funded housing program. This program provides an opportunity for people who are having difficulty paying rent or meeting expenses with the possibility of sharing their homes with people who also need assistance. Dolores will talk about the benefits this program can provide such as independence, companionship and security. Please call 265-7753 to register.
(3) THE PRO AND CONS OF REVERSE MORTGAGES
Monday, September 28, 10:00 AM
Donna Merino from Campbell Mortgages will speak about the advantages and disadvantages of reverse mortgages. Please call 265-7753 to register.
RADIO NOSTALGIA with BOB SCHULTZ
Wednesday, September 16, 10:00 AM
Voice–over artist, Bob Schultz, will take you down memory lane with his radio nostalgia program featuring familiar sounds from the Golden Age. Relive the days when families gathered around the radio to hear personalities like Bob Hope and serials like Superman. Come connect with the past when radio was king. Please sign up.
WCOA VIVA ITALIA! FUNDRAISER
Thursday, October 8, 2009, 5:00 p.m. (doors open 4:30 p.m.)
Tickets $25.00 on sale Monday, September 14, 9:30 a.m.
CRUISE NIGHT
Thursday, September 10, 5:00 PM until Dark
Meet fellow car enthusiasts on Thursday, September 10, weather permitting, in the parking lot. Dinner is available at the Lake View Café from 4:30PM to 6:30PM. The outdoor grill will be open from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. This event is open to the public. Sign up not required but call with questions, 265-7753.
DANCE PARTY WITH VINNIE CARR
Thursday, September 10, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
While the Cruise Night is taking place in the parking lot, the Great Room will be jumping with the sounds of Vinnie Carr. Bring your friends, check out the classic cars, and then come to our dance party!
FALL CLASSES
Get involved, meet new people, expand your horizons, and try something new! September kicks off the fall sessions of all of our classes and activities including Quilting, Ceramics, Wood Carving, Tap Dance, and Clay Sculpture. Stop by the front desk for a complete schedule and sign up today!
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.
CT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
2009-2010 HEATING SEASON
The Wallingford Senior Center is an intake site for Wallingford residents, age 60 and over. The program provides financial assistance to income-eligible households to pay for a portion of their heating costs. We will begin taking applications for deliverable fuel (oil and kerosene only) on Tuesday, September 8. First day for fuel deliveries which can be paid for by CEAP is November 1. Gas and electric customers can call beginning November 10 for an appointment. Income limits are presently $29,272.36 for a single person and $38,279.24 for a couple. Asset limits also apply.
Applicants MUST bring (2) photocopies of the following checklist documents:
· Most recent bank statement showing Social Security deposit amount, or copy of a 2009 Social Security check, or Social Security “Your New Benefit Amount” letter for 2009.
· Most recent checking, savings, CD, annuity, stock, bond documents.
· 2009 year-to-date pension or annuity dividends and/or interest income.
· Four most recent pay stubs, if employed.
· Rental Income – rent stub or copy of check deposited into bank account.
· Most recent heat utility bill.
· Electric bill.
Applications are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 265-7753.
VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, September 22, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford, will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753.
BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, September 15, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
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
FOOD STAMP PROGRAM (SNAP)
The State Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (formerly the Food Stamp Program) has changed its eligibility criteria effective July 1, 2009. Income limits have been increased and there is no asset limit when applying for this program.
•Single Income: $1,670.00 month •Couple Income: $2,247.00 month
For more information or to schedule an appointment to apply for this program, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at 265 7753.
DO YOU RECEIVE A PENSION?
IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT PENSION WITHHOLDING
Pensioners do not qualify for the Making Work Pay Credit unless they have earned income. However, the new withholding tables apply to all taxpayers, including pensioners. The withholding tables decreased Federal Tax withholdings on pensions, too. If you receive a pension, you may want to contact your accountant, tax preparer, go to your local IRS Office or use the IRS.Gov for help. The IRS has a withholding calculator that pensioners and others can use to make sure enough tax is being withheld from their pay.
VISIT our website at www.wlfdseniorctr.com!
___________________________________________________________________
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 Meriden Health Department has scheduled a Flu Shot Clinic at the Max Muravnick Senior Center on Wednesday, September 30 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon. The flu shots at the Senior Center will be given by appointment only again this year. Appointments must be made by calling the Meriden Health Department at 630-4234 to schedule a time for your flu shot on Wednesday, September 30. According to Meriden Health Director Beth Vumbaco, flu shots are strongly recommended for all people aged 60 and older, all residents of nursing homes or chronic care facilities and all adults with chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems, including asthma. The flu shots at the Senior Center are for Meriden residents over 60 or those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, severe anemia, severe asthma, heart disease or lung disease. Please note that the flu shot does not contain live virus and cannot give you the flu and a new, sterile needle is used for each person. To make an appointment for your flu shot at the Senior Center call the Meriden Health Department at 630-4234. Remember to bring your Medicare card too!
Sign-ups are now being accepted for the next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center on Wednesday, November 4 and Friday, November 6 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Class participants will learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8-hour course. Successful completion of the classroom course also entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Reservations can be made by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066.
Move & Soothe with Dr. Susan Sandel will resume on Tuesday, September 8 at 12:30 PM. The class will now be held in the mezzanine. This creative movement, exercise and relaxation program has been quite popular in the past and we hope that interested people will attend to welcome Susan back for the next quarterly session of Move & Soothe here at the Senior Center!
On Thursday, October 1 at 10:30 Kevin Peel, a Financial Advisor and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor with Wells Fargo Advisors invites you to attend a “Weathering Market Volatility” presentation at the Senior Center. He will discuss the state of financial markets, evaluating your risk tolerance, being properly diversified, understanding account fees and making the most of your retirement savings. This no cost or obligation program will be held in the first floor meeting room and is open to all interested people. Refreshments will be served.
The deadline for elderly and disabled people to sign-up for the State of Connecticut Rent Relief Program is September 15. The program gives eligible renters money back on their 2008 rent and utilities. For more information or further details on how to apply for the program please call the Senior Center at 237-0066.
John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
August 28, 2009
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
MAYOR’S CORNER MERIDEN
I have often wondered how we ever functioned effectively without the modern communication gadgets that we have today. I have a cell phone and Blackberry that are my constant companions. There are times that I am on three calls at once when I get a call at home and simultaneous calls on my wireless phones. This is crazy! I also get text messages as well.
Additionally I have a PC and Mac at home, and a PC at work. I also have a printer, fax machine, and copier along with my digital camera.
So again, how did we survive without all these "necessary" communication devices? Well, things were a lot slower. Snail mail was the norm, we sent letters instead of emails. We wrote messages down and called people back. We often made repeated calls before voice mail was invented. Seems pretty outdated and so long ago that we were in such a different communication mode.
But for me, it's been fantastic to have lived through this communication revolution and to be able to take advantage of it. My children and grandchildren live in California but we have live video chats where we can see and hear them and they can hear and see us on the computer in real time! I talk to my dad in Florida for free on weekends and nights on my cell phone. We can email pictures and videos. All this technology is breathtaking and makes one wonder where is it all leading? Will doctors insert communications systems in our bodies at birth so we won't even need cell phones?
We are in a brave new world and our challenge now is to ensure that our machines work for us and that we not become slaves to our machines. But make no mistake about it, we have made a giant leap in communication technology and there is no going back to the old days!
Enjoy the ride!
Finally, schools are open, keep an eye out for the little ones and drive carefully in school zones.
Mike Rohde
Mayor
________________________________________________________________________________________________
MAYOR’S CORNER WALLINGFORD
August 27, 2009
Dear Friends:
This Fall is a perfect time to take advantage of the programs, trips and events offered by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department. This year the Parks and Recreation Department, Public Celebrations Committee and the Wallingford YMCA have teamed up for the Fishbein Community Day Road Race followed by Family Day at Doolittle Park. This fun day of events will be Saturday, September 12th with the race beginning at 8:30 a.m. and Family Day beginning at Noon. Family Day is will be an exciting event with entertainment including Curious Creatures, (animal demonstration), Stitch (magic and improv), CT Parents Choice Award Winner Les Julian and local band The Blue Agaves.
To continue the fun that weekend, we look forward to seeing many of the “young triathletes” compete on Sunday, September 13th in the Kids Off Road Triathlon, which will be at Choate beginning at 9:00 a.m. If it is a destination you are looking for, look at the voyagers and trips section of the Parks and Recreation Fall 2009 brochure. This brochure also provides opportunities in early childhood, adaptive recreation, sports, health and fitness, and the arts (performing, visual and fine). We hope you find something you can enjoy this season.
Celebrate Wallingford will be held on October 3rd and 4th. As always, there will be lots to see and do. New this year is a “Little Miss and Mister Wallingford” Contest for children between the ages of 4 and 7 by September 1, 2009 sponsored by the Wallingford Jr. Womans Organization. There will be “Circus Theme” activities for children and the “Taste of Wallingford” with approximately 12 vendors representing Wallingford restaurants and organizations. Bands include Triple Play and Bluzberry Pie on Saturday, and Cover Story and River Street Band on Sunday. Please call WCI for additional information.
This will be a wonderful time to enjoy Downtown and meet friends. I am looking forward to seeing during the Fall.
Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine!
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events
SENIOR CENTERS MAKE A CONNECTION!
September is National Senior Center Month. Sponsored by the National Institute of Senior Centers, this year’s theme is “Senior Centers Make a Connection!” The Wallingford Senior Center offers many ways you can connect with people, programs, and services to enhance your life. We have planned a number of special programs this month designed to help you make or improve meaningful connections. Read on!
THE HUMAN CONNECTION: SEXUALITY AND THE AGING PROCESS
Wednesday, September 9, 10:00 AM
Join VNA of Wallingford social worker Amy Benfer, LCSW, and nurse Chris More, RN, for a light and informative discussion about human sexuality and the aging process. Throughout our lifetime, touch, affection, and intimacy remain important needs for maintaining good physical and emotional health. Loss of loved ones, medical complications, and lack of available partners can make it difficult to meet those needs. Some of the topics that will be discussed include: meeting new people and dating again; new ways to look at sexuality; staying safe and healthy; and physical touch can keep you smiling. The presenters will be available after the session for individual questions.
THE HUMAN CONNECTION: MEN’S HEALTH & SEXUALITY
Wednesday, September 23, 10:00 AM
Urologist Dr. Stephen B. Siegel will discuss a variety of men’s health issues including prostate health, erectile dysfunction, and what those constant trips to the bathroom can signal. All are welcome to attend this program sponsored by MidState Medical Center.
THE HUMAN CONNECTION: WOMEN’S HEALTH & SEXUALITY
Wednesday, September 30, 10:00 AM
Dr. Joseph A. Peccerillo, gynecologist, will discuss a variety of post menopausal health issues for women including vaginal atrophy, painful intercourse, low sex drive and more. Dr. Peccerillo will provide the answers to questions you may have been too embarrassed to ask. This program is sponsored by MidState Medical Center.
FREE AND LOW COST HOME REPAIRS
Tuesday, September 8, 1:00 PM
Home Solutions provides free and low cost repairs for qualifying senior homeowners who might need a new roof, heating system, bathroom or even a handicap ramp in order to remain safely in their homes. The program can pay up to $10,000 for work on a single family home or $20,000 on a two-family home. Call the senior center at 265-7753 to register to attend this informational program. If you are interested in starting the application process prior to the program on September 8, please call 1-860-560-5800.
WELCOME BACK PARTY
Thursday, September 17, 11:00 AM – 12 Noon
Say good-bye to summer, hello to autumn, and connect with friends at our Welcome Back Party! And, with the help of The Inner Rhythm band directed by Dick Santo, you can connect with your favorite songs! Inner Rhythm’s music is sure to stir up old memories starting with tunes from the 40’s right on up to the present. Tickets are $1.00 for members and $2.00 for guests. Refreshments will be provided to all ticketholders. Purchase your ticket at the front desk by September 15, and come kick-off another great fall season at your senior center.
CONNECTICUT MONEY SCHOOL PROGRAMS
The CT Money School provides free financial information for older adults with the goal of assisting people to become financially stable and successful. Join us for one or all three of the programs listed below.
(1) PAY YOURSELF FIRST
Thursday, September 10, 10:00 AM
Nancy Goman, Branch Manager of Webster Bank will present tips on living on a fixed income, and will offer suggestions on how to stretch your income. To register, please call 265-7753.
(2) PROJECT HOMESHARE
Tuesday, September 15, 10:00 AM
Dolores Bush, Coordinator of Project Homeshare from the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut will provide information on this state-funded housing program. This program provides an opportunity for people who are having difficulty paying rent or meeting expenses with the possibility of sharing their homes with people who also need assistance. Dolores will talk about the benefits this program can provide such as independence, companionship and security. Please call 265-7753 to register.
(3) THE PRO AND CONS OF REVERSE MORTGAGES
Monday, September 28, 10:00 AM
Donna Merino from Campbell Mortgages will speak about the advantages and disadvantages of reverse mortgages. Please call 265-7753 to register.
RADIO NOSTALGIA with BOB SCHULTZ
Wednesday, September 16, 10:00 AM
Voice–over artist, Bob Schultz, will take you down memory lane with his radio nostalgia program featuring familiar sounds from the Golden Age. Relive the days when families gathered around the radio to hear personalities like Bob Hope and serials like Superman. Come connect with the past when radio was king. Please sign up.
WCOA VIVA ITALIA! FUNDRAISER
Thursday, October 8, 2009, 5:00 p.m. (doors open 4:30 p.m.)
Tickets $25.00 on sale Monday, September 14, 9:30 a.m.
CRUISE NIGHT
Thursday, September 10, 5:00 PM until Dark
Meet fellow car enthusiasts on Thursday, September 10, weather permitting, in the parking lot. Dinner is available at the Lake View Café from 4:30PM to 6:30PM. The outdoor grill will be open from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. This event is open to the public. Sign up not required but call with questions, 265-7753.
DANCE PARTY WITH VINNIE CARR
Thursday, September 10, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
While the Cruise Night is taking place in the parking lot, the Great Room will be jumping with the sounds of Vinnie Carr. Bring your friends, check out the classic cars, and then come to our dance party!
FALL CLASSES
Get involved, meet new people, expand your horizons, and try something new! September kicks off the fall sessions of all of our classes and activities including Quilting, Ceramics, Wood Carving, Tap Dance, and Clay Sculpture. Stop by the front desk for a complete schedule and sign up today!
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.
CT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
2009-2010 HEATING SEASON
The Wallingford Senior Center is an intake site for Wallingford residents, age 60 and over. The program provides financial assistance to income-eligible households to pay for a portion of their heating costs. We will begin taking applications for deliverable fuel (oil and kerosene only) on Tuesday, September 8. First day for fuel deliveries which can be paid for by CEAP is November 1. Gas and electric customers can call beginning November 10 for an appointment. Income limits are presently $29,272.36 for a single person and $38,279.24 for a couple. Asset limits also apply.
Applicants MUST bring (2) photocopies of the following checklist documents:
· Most recent bank statement showing Social Security deposit amount, or copy of a 2009 Social Security check, or Social Security “Your New Benefit Amount” letter for 2009.
· Most recent checking, savings, CD, annuity, stock, bond documents.
· 2009 year-to-date pension or annuity dividends and/or interest income.
· Four most recent pay stubs, if employed.
· Rental Income – rent stub or copy of check deposited into bank account.
· Most recent heat utility bill.
· Electric bill.
Applications are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 265-7753.
VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, September 22, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford, will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753.
BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, September 15, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
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
FOOD STAMP PROGRAM (SNAP)
The State Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (formerly the Food Stamp Program) has changed its eligibility criteria effective July 1, 2009. Income limits have been increased and there is no asset limit when applying for this program.
•Single Income: $1,670.00 month •Couple Income: $2,247.00 month
For more information or to schedule an appointment to apply for this program, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at 265 7753.
DO YOU RECEIVE A PENSION?
IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT PENSION WITHHOLDING
Pensioners do not qualify for the Making Work Pay Credit unless they have earned income. However, the new withholding tables apply to all taxpayers, including pensioners. The withholding tables decreased Federal Tax withholdings on pensions, too. If you receive a pension, you may want to contact your accountant, tax preparer, go to your local IRS Office or use the IRS.Gov for help. The IRS has a withholding calculator that pensioners and others can use to make sure enough tax is being withheld from their pay.
VISIT our website at www.wlfdseniorctr.com!
___________________________________________________________________
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 Meriden Health Department has scheduled a Flu Shot Clinic at the Max Muravnick Senior Center on Wednesday, September 30 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon. The flu shots at the Senior Center will be given by appointment only again this year. Appointments must be made by calling the Meriden Health Department at 630-4234 to schedule a time for your flu shot on Wednesday, September 30. According to Meriden Health Director Beth Vumbaco, flu shots are strongly recommended for all people aged 60 and older, all residents of nursing homes or chronic care facilities and all adults with chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems, including asthma. The flu shots at the Senior Center are for Meriden residents over 60 or those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, severe anemia, severe asthma, heart disease or lung disease. Please note that the flu shot does not contain live virus and cannot give you the flu and a new, sterile needle is used for each person. To make an appointment for your flu shot at the Senior Center call the Meriden Health Department at 630-4234. Remember to bring your Medicare card too!
Sign-ups are now being accepted for the next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center on Wednesday, November 4 and Friday, November 6 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Class participants will learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8-hour course. Successful completion of the classroom course also entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Reservations can be made by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066.
Move & Soothe with Dr. Susan Sandel will resume on Tuesday, September 8 at 12:30 PM. The class will now be held in the mezzanine. This creative movement, exercise and relaxation program has been quite popular in the past and we hope that interested people will attend to welcome Susan back for the next quarterly session of Move & Soothe here at the Senior Center!
On Thursday, October 1 at 10:30 Kevin Peel, a Financial Advisor and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor with Wells Fargo Advisors invites you to attend a “Weathering Market Volatility” presentation at the Senior Center. He will discuss the state of financial markets, evaluating your risk tolerance, being properly diversified, understanding account fees and making the most of your retirement savings. This no cost or obligation program will be held in the first floor meeting room and is open to all interested people. Refreshments will be served.
The deadline for elderly and disabled people to sign-up for the State of Connecticut Rent Relief Program is September 15. The program gives eligible renters money back on their 2008 rent and utilities. For more information or further details on how to apply for the program please call the Senior Center at 237-0066.
John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
August 28, 2009
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