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2010-04-28T09:50:00.001-04:00

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About The People's Press

2010-04-26T13:31:00.004-04:00

About The People's Press

We are a community newspaper and a viewspaper serving Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut. It's your write to express yourself.

That's right, The People's Press is made up of submissions by YOU! It's all about your Happinews.

You can submit a photo, a story, a poem, a recipe, community and local news or whatever you would like. That's what makes us a viewspaper and a newspaper! It's not about us, It's about you!

You will also find information from the Mayor of each town, the public libraries, senior centers, health departments, other various town and city departments and events as well as information about the wonderful groups and civic organizations that help our towns to be a better place. We list news and events before they happen and not after they happen so you can be a part of them.

We invite you to join us by becoming a part of the family of our submitters and sharing your news and views that matter most to Wallingford, Meriden and Central Connecticut. We are YOUR newspaper.

Welcome to The People's Press - Your Town, Your News, Your Views!

Visit www.peoplespressnews.com to read the entire paper in image or pdf form. Plus there is local links, coupons and more!

People's Press Wallingford Fireworks Challenge

2010-04-23T10:16:00.002-04:00

The People�s Press Fireworks Challenge - The People�s Press will give the first person to raise $700.00 from companies or individuals a 1 night stay at the 4 Points By Sheraton for 2 and some tickets to Quassy Amusement Park for the kids. Your success is the Firework�s success! Post it on the Save Wallingford�s Fireworks 2010 Facebook page first and once confirmed � YOU WIN!

Visit http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=111579652206095 to let us know if you have done it!

Memories of the Wallingford Fireworks???

2010-04-22T09:23:00.001-04:00

Do you have a favorite memory of the Wallingford fireworks with your family? Send me a story and we will publish it in the May issue to help even more with the cause. Email me at andy@peoplepressnews.com by the April 30th.

Sincerely, Andy of The People's Press
www.peoplespressnews.com

SAVE WALLINGFORD'S FIREWORKS 2010

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PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO REVIEW HOW YOU CAN HELP SAVE A HUGE TRADITION IN WALLINGFORD!

www.peoplespressnews.com

Sincerely, Andy and all of your friends at The People's Press

Meriden Rotary Club 13th Annual Classic Golf Tournament

2010-04-21T11:11:00.001-04:00

Meriden Rotary Club 13th Annual Classic Golf Tournament

The 13th Annual Corporate Classic Golf Tournament sponsored by the Meriden Rotary Foundation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at Hunters� Golf Course in Meriden The premier event includes 18 holes of golf with lunch before a shotgun start, cocktail reception, dinner, gift pack, personalized program, auction, and prizes.

The Meriden Rotary Club has used the money raised from the tournaments, as well as its other events, to support initiatives in the Meriden community, including: Drug Awareness Resistance Education (DARE) for elementary schools, Noah�s Ark of Hope, Inc. for a barrier free playground, Project Dictionary for all 3rd graders in Meriden schools, Soap Box Derby, Beat the Street, Spirit of Giving, Rotary Career Center at the Meriden Public Library, Meriden Boys and Girls Club library, Citizenship awards for high school students, Rotary computer center at Girls Inc, and youth leadership.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and golfers are also encouraged to sign up. For information, visit the Meriden Rotary Club website at www.meridenrotary.org and contact Tournament Director Frank Ridley by calling 203-634-0072.

Personal Blogs Now Listed For Free

2010-04-16T15:53:00.002-04:00

Do you have a personal blog?
We are now listing personal blogs at www.peoplespressnews.com. Please send me your Name - blog description and url and we will help you with more exposure for free.
Only rules are:
1. Gotta be clean - no profanity
2. No sexual content
3. No attacking others.
Email your information to andy@peoplespressnews.com

Local Links in Wallingford and Meriden

2010-04-16T13:24:00.002-04:00

The People�s Press
www.peoplespressnews.com
Follow The People�s Press on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#!/pages/Yalesville-CT/The-Peoples-Press/53307792146?ref=mf
Official Town of Wallingford website
www.town.wallingford.ct.us
Wallingford Park and Recreation Department
http://www.town.wallingford.ct.us/Content/Parks_and_Recreation.asp
Wallingford Board of Education
www.wallingford.ccsct.com
Wallingford Senior Center
www.wlfdseniorctr.com
Wallingford Coalition for Unit
ywww.wallingfordcoalition.org
Wallingford Land Trust
www.wallingfordlandtrust.org
Wallingford Public Library
www.wallingford.lioninc.org
Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce
www.quinncham.com
Wallingford Historic Preservation Trust
www.whpt.org
Wallingford Girls Softball League
www.wgsl.org
Girls Little League Softball of Wallingford
www.gllsow.org
Wallingford Hawks
www.whawks.com
Meriden and WallingfordSubstance Abuse Council, Inc.
www.ctprevention.com/mawsac
Wallingford Center Inc.
www.wallingfordcenterinc.com
Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce
www.meridenchamber.com
Official City of Meriden Website
www.cityofmeriden.org
Meriden Health Department
www.meridenhealth.com
Meriden Board of Education & Public Schools
www.meriden.k12.ct.us/
Meriden Public Library
www.cityofmeriden.org
Meriden Adult Education
www.meridenadulted.org
St. Stanislaus School
www.meriden.com/stan
St. Joseph School
www.meriden.com/stjoseph
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School
www.ctschools.net/ourladymtcarmelmer
Quinnipiac River Watershed Association
www.qrwa.org
Meriden's Children First
www.meridenchildrenfirst.org
Meriden YMCA
www.meridenymca.org
Meriden Soccer Club
www.meridensoccerclub.org
Meriden Land Trust
www.meridenlandtrust.com
Meriden Humane Society
www.meridenhs.petfinder.org
Boing Moon Bouncers
www.boingmoonbouncers.com
Wallingford Flower
www.wallingfordflower.com
Rosa's Deli
www.rosasdeli.com
Wallingford YMCA
www.wallingfordymca.org
Quassy Amusement Park
www.quassy.com
Konowitz, Kahn & Company, P.C.
www.konowitzkahn.com
Crafty Lady
www.craftyladyonline.com
Kindermusik with Sandie
www.musicboxwithsandie.com
Web Solutions
www.websolutions.net
MidState Medical Center
www.midstatemedical.org
Wallingford Optical
www.wallingfordoptical.com
Pralines Ice Cream of Wallingford
www.pralineswallingford.com
King TravelWays
www.kingtravelways.com
Fantasy Faces by Ruth
www.fantasyfacesbyruth.com
JC Music
www.j-cmusic.com
South Meriden Events
www.southmeridenevents.org
Stone Wall Land Surveyors, LLC
http://stonewallboundaries.com/
Storey Books
www.storey.com
Baran�s Kenpo Karate
www.baranskenpo.com
Wallingford Adult Education
www.wallingfordadulted.org
The Meriden Rotary Club
www.meridenrotary.org
Club 24
www.club24gyms.com
Women and Families Center
www.womenfamilies.org
Carrie Purcell
Energy Medicine Practioner
www.carriepurcell.com
The Wallingford Victorian Bed & Breakfast
www.bedandbreakfastwallingford.com
Meriden Self Storage
www.meridenselfstorage.com
Jon Peckman - Drum Teacher
www.myspace.com/jonpeckman
Comfort Keepers of Wallingford
www.comfortkeepers.com
Augusta Curtis Cultural Center
www.curtiscultaralcenter.org
Verdolini's Transmission
www.verdolinis.com
Wallingford - Yalesville Funeral Homes
www.wallingfordfh.com
Colony Ford of Meriden
www.colonyfordmeriden.com
Jennifer�s House of Hair
www.jhhair.com
Stormy Mountain Candle Company
www.stormymountain.com
Trail of Terror
!www.trailofterror.com
Schooner, Inc.
www.schoonerinc.org
Harvest Park Naturopathic Medicine
http://www.naturopathicanswer.com
Rotary Club of Wallingford
www.wallingfordrotary.org
Meriden Senior Center
http://www.cityofmeriden.org/CMS/default.asp?CMS_AreaID=56
Meriden Lion�s Club
www.meridenlionsclub.com
The Franciscan Life Center
www.franciscanhc.org
Meriden Arts Council
www.meridenartscouncil.org
Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament
www.ymcafilipektennis.com
Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club of Wallingford
www.bgcawallingford.org
United Way of Meriden and Wallingford
www.unitedwaymw.org
Look for even more local links in May 2010
If you are a local organization or non-profit - you get a free link. Email us at andy@peoplespressnews.com
Companies/Sponsors of The People�s Press get free links!
To return to The People�s Press main website www.peoplespressnews.com

How do I submit to The People's Press?

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Click on the image for detailed information on how to be a part of the LocalMotion of The People's Press. The image will enlarge for easy reading! If you have any questions - email Andy at andy@peoplespressnews.com or call 203-235-9333! We are here to help.

April 2010 Issue Now On-Line

2010-04-12T12:38:00.004-04:00

Read the whole issue in image form or downloadable pdf form at www.peoplespressnews.com! LocalMotion is what we are all about. Your News, Your Stories, Your Photos and more! Share some by emailing andy@peoplespressnews.com! We are Wallingford and Meriden Connecticut's true community newspaper!

April 2010 Library News and Events

2010-04-12T12:24:00.002-04:00

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 Public Library � Children�s Activities

Springtime Stories

Join us in a storytime soon! Wallingford Public Library Storytimes do not require any registration and are for children and adults to enjoy together. The programs are interactive, and filled with a variety of stories, songs, music, fingerplays , and movement, and each is developmentally appropriate for the ages described. Interested siblings are always welcome.

Preschool Stories

For children ages three to five
Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. [no program April 20]
Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m.
Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.

Musical Mother Goose*
For children ages one and two
Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.
Community Room
*This program is limited to 60 people; Wallingford residents are given priority. Please bring proof of residency. Non-residents are most welcome to attend if there is room.

The Waddling Ones*
For children ages 12-24 months
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.
Collins Room
*This program is limited to 20 children and their caregivers; Wallingford residents and Itty Bitty graduates are given priority. Please bring proof of residency. Non-residents are most welcome to attend if there is room.

Itty Bitty Babies
For children ages 12 months and under
Thursdays, 1:30 p.m.
Children�s Program Room

Me Gustan los Libros!
Monday April 26, 6:30 p.m.
Children�s Program Room
Join Maria Ruiz for stories and more with a bilingual twist!
Stories and activities for children ages 3-8 and their caregivers, are shared in English and Spanish.

Family Game Night Unplugged
Friday, April 16, 7:00 p.m.
Children�s Library
New studies show that kids are spending too many hours per day in front of screens!
Gather your family and friends in the Children�s Library and we�ll have loads of new board games for you to enjoy together. Board games provide opportunities for kids to learn all sorts of valuable skills in a fun-filled way.
So join us for counting, reading, logic, strategy, conversation, giggles and more!

Meriden Public Library April Vacation Week Programs

MERIDEN-SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY DURING SPRING VACATION WEEK

In Celebration of National Library Week and Spring Vacation Week, Meriden Public Library will be presenting children's programs for all ages.

On Tuesday April 13th at 10:30 AM. Come party, dance, and sing along with "Harry Gambardella". Harry brings his own party and you will sure to have a great time!

On Wednesday April 14 at 11:00 AM. Watch in amazement, smile and laugh along with Meriden's own "Willy The Clown".

Tickets will be available on April 1st.

Stop by the Children's Library to pick up your tickets or call us for more information at(203) 630-6347.

MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY APRIL EVENTS

U.S. CENSUS AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

The Meriden Public Library is an authorized census questionnaire assistance center for help with the U.S. Census forms. The Census Department will be at the library on a daily basis from Friday, March 19 to Monday, April 19 to assist people with questions about the forms, exchanging forms for the correct language, and helping people fill out the forms. The following is a schedule of times the Census Department will be in the Seminar Room of Meriden Public Library:
Monday and Wednesday � 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday � 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Saturday 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

FREE COMPUTER CLASSES IN APRIL

Meriden Public Library will be offering the following free computer classes on Saturdays from 9:30 to 10:15 AM in the public computer lab.
Email Class - April 24
Microsoft Word � April 17

Class size is limited. Contact the library at (203) 238-2346 or (203) 630-6349 to register for any class.

WRITERS NETWORK MEETS APRIL 28

The Writers Network will meet at Meriden Public Library on Tuesday, April 8 and on Wednesday, April 28 at 7:00 pm in the Friends Room. Anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter is welcome to attend. The Writers Network is for anyone who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about any library program.

TEEN BOOK CLUB �BOOK VOYAGERS� APRIL 13

The Book Voyagers, a teen book club, will be meeting on Tuesday, April 13 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library. This month�s novel is called �Accidental Love� by Gary Soto. It is a classic story in which boy meets girl (accidental), girl falls for boy (love), but they are from two different neighborhoods and two different worlds. The odds of them making it are slim to none in this well-crafted story of young love. Pizza and soda will be provided. Copies of the book are available in the Teen Center. Sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org or call (203) 238-2347.

THURSDAY LUNCH TIME BOOK CLUB AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

Meriden Public Library�s lunch time book club continues on Thursday, April 15 at noon in the Seminar Room. Bring your bag lunch and enjoy some great discussions. All are welcome. The book that will be discussed in April is The Sari Shop Widow by Shobhan Bantwal. Copies are available at the Meriden Library.

The schedule for the next few months will be as follows:
May 13 � The Reader by Bernard Schlink
June 10 � Lit: a memoir by Mary Karr

Contact the Community Services at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to join the book club.

MOVIES AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

Come to the free movies at Meriden Public Library�s Griffin Room on Saturday, April 17 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room to view the newly released version of the story of the Frog Prince. On Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30 pm, this movie follows the life of a football player who goes to live with a well-to-do family and help him reach his full potential. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about the movies.

SCRABBLE AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

The Meriden Public Library will be holding Scrabble sessions on April 26 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room. Come to practice or learn the game. Everyone is invited.. If you have any questions about this or other programs at the library, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email us at comsvc@hotmail.com or stop by at any session.

TEEN ANIME CLUB APRIL 23

The Teen Anime Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Friday, April 23rd at 3:00 pm. We will be watching a mecha anime filled with action, humor and signature moves. Simon, Kamina and the rest of their village are forced to live underground until an earthquake and a machine change their lives. This program is for teens ages 13-18. Snacks will be provided. Sign up through our website at www.meridenlibrary.org or at the Information Desk. If you have any questions please call Melissa at (203) 238-2346.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE APRIL 23 AND APRIL 24

The Friends of the Meriden Public Library will be holding a book sale in the Friends Room of the Meriden Public Library on Friday, April 23 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday, April 24 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Come and stock up for your summer beach reading.

BOOKMOBILE AT THE DAFFODIL FESTIVAL

The Meriden Public Library Bookmobile will be at the Daffodil Festival on Saturday, April 24 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and on Sunday, April 25 from noon to 4:30 pm. Stop by to pick up the monthly calendar and sign up for our online newsletter.

SCRAPBOOKING ON A SHOESTRING APRIL 26

Have you ever wanted to scrapbook but felt you couldn�t afford it? Well, now you can! Com to Meriden Public Library�s Friends Room on Monday, April 26 from 5:15 to 8:00 pm and use our tools. This month�s demonstration will show how you can take one piece of paper and make 8 pages for your scrapbook. You will have access to a die cut machine, decorative scissors, paper cutter, corner rounder, and stencils. Bring your photos, pages, an adhesive, and pens. Free handouts will be available.

Registration is requested and free paper will be provided for those who pre-register by calling the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org under �Adult events.�

ONCE BANNED, NOW CLASSIC BOOK DISCUSSION SERIES AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

Meriden Public Library and the Connecticut Humanities Council�s discussion series �Once banned, now classic� with moderator Marsha Bansavage will finish on Tuesday, April 27 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room. The final book to be featured is �The Awakening� by Kate Chopin. Copies of �The Awakening� are available at the Library. The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to sign up for participation in the book discussion series.

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM APRIL 28

Dr. David DeRosa, a practicing chiropractor from Wallingford, will present a program on weight loss on Wednesday, April 28 at 1:00 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library. You will learn why diets don�t work, new solutions to accelerated weight-loss, five secrets to permanent weight loss as well as ways to increase your energy, have better health and more self esteem.

The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on �Adult events� to reserve a seat.

NEW DATABASES AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

The Meriden Public Library is pleased to announce the availability of the following databases accessible through the library�s website:

AtoZMapsOnline.com is the world�s largest subscription-based database of proprietary, royalty-free world, continent, country, and state maps. Included in the 4,000+ maps are: political maps, physical maps, outline maps, population maps, precipitation maps, climate maps, and other thematic maps. New maps are added to the collection every month.

The Global Road Warrior Library Edition, a database covering 175 countries, is the most comprehensive business travel, telecommunications and business culture reference available in the world.

Newsbank America�s Newspapers which give you access to the complete electronic editions to search more than 1,000 full-text newspapers nationwide, including the Record-Journal and America�s GenealogyBank which gives you access to historical newspapers, books, documents and obituaries to help you trace your family history. This is a trial subscription only available to April 30. Contact the Information Desk at (203) 238-2346 if you have questions about these databases.

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!

___________________________________________________________________________

April Vacation at the Wallingford Public Library
There are always lots of things to look forward to during April Vacation and here are a few more.

It�s Water Olympics! presented by the Kellogg Environmental Center
Wednesday, April 21, 10:00 a.m.
Community Room
The Kellogg Environmental Center will combine games, water, and kids in this special exploratory science program. Kids will learn about the different ways in which water reacts as they explore water in new ways.
Children ages 8 and up may sign up for this program starting Thursday, April 7.

Bob Crelin and Faces of the Moon
Wednesday, April 21, 7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Ever wonder about the night sky and why the moon changes the way it does? Come find out at a special program featuring author Bob Crelin. Bob will discuss his new book, Faces of the Moon, and tell us lots more about the night sky. Weather permitting we may even have a chance to see some stars through his telescope. Bob will have copies of his book for sale and autograph them following the program for those interested.
This program is free and open to all grades K and up.

Let�s Get Cookin� with Kashia Cave
Friday, April 23, 10:00 a.m.
Community Room
Yum! Join us as we welcome Kashia Cave, of My City Kitchen in Meriden, who will do a cooking demo on healthy eating for children ages 6-12. Come and see what tasty, healthy treats are being dished up at the Wallingford Public Library. Wallingford students may register for this program starting April 7.

A Special Celebration
El d�a de los ni�os/El d�a de los libros
Friday, April 30, 7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Come celebrate El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros with Maria Ruiz and special guests during this celebration that emphasizes the importance of literacy for children of all linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
There will be lots of activities and a special appearance by Skippyjon Jones!
This program is free and open to all.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AT WALLINGORD PUBLIC LIBRARY:
All of our programs are free, all of the time!

Saturday Mornings with Poetry (regular meeting)
Saturday, April 24
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Board Room
All are welcome to read original poems and share their writing experiences with fellow poets. Teen and adult poets and poetry lovers are invited.

National Poem in Your Pocket Day
Thursday, April 29
Take a day for poetry this April and join the Academy of American Poets in celebrating the third national Poem in Your Pocket Day during National Poetry Month. The idea is simple: select a poem, pocket it, carry it, and share it with family, friends, and coworkers throughout the day. Look for our poetry display opposite the Information Desk.

The Theater of the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s
Wednesday, April 14
7: 00 p.m. Community Room

The Thirties through the Fifties represent a great period of American theatrical history. Dramatist Eugene O�Neill won both the Pulitzer and Nobel Prizes during a career that spanned from the teens of the 1900s to the 1940s. The influence of, and reaction to, the Great Depression is evident in the work of William Saroyan. The Forties saw the emergence of two great playwrights who would next dominate the American theater: Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller. The 1950s saw many of these plays, including Mary Chase�s Harvey featuring James Stewart as Elwood P. Dowd, brought to the screen and enjoy a wider American audience. Treat yourself to an evening of theater with actor Stephen Collins as he performs a variety of monologues from some of America�s best loved plays.

Thursday Night Book Club: Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
Thursday, April 29
7:00 p.m. Collins Room

This popular nonfiction of �murder, magic, and madness at the fair that changed America,� recounts Chicago as it readies for the World�s Columbian Exposition of 1893. Larson tells the story of two men: the brilliant architect behind the fair and the cunning serial killer who used the fair to lure his victims to their death. Combining meticulous research with nail-biting storytelling, the author gives readers a wonderful sense of history with the thrills of fiction. Please join us for an informal discussion. All are welcome for conversation, refreshment, and reader fellowship! A limited number of copies of the book are available from the Information Desk and from our library catalog.

The Play�s the Thing: A Discussion Series
A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
Thursday, April 29
3:30 p.m. Collins Room

Here are some of the most memorable characters in American literature! Blanche DuBois is a troubled southern beauty who is drowning in her problems and loses her last chance at happiness. Stanley Kowalski, her crude and often cruel brother-in-law, precipitates her final tragedy. This discussion of Tennessee Willa�s Pulitzer Prize-winning play is part of a 3-part discussion of plays co-sponsored by the Connecticut Humanities Council. Copies of the plays are available in limited quantities from the Information Desk. Series continues as follows: May 27: Love Letters by A. R. Gurney; June 24: Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward.

ASPIRING NOVELISTS: SAVE THE DATE!
Creative Writing Workshop: Taking the Labor Out of Writing a Novel
Saturday, May 1
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Collins Room

Eileen Albrizio returns to the library to host a writing workshop for aspiring novelists. Beginning with the inception of your idea and moving on to drafting a plot sentence, developing an intimate relationship with your main characters, drafting an ending to your story, blocking out your chapters and finally, writing that all important first line of the first chapter of your novel; this is truly a hands-on workshop. All are welcome however seating is limited!

COMPUTER CLASSES
Introduction to PowerPoint 2007
Wednesday, April 28
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Board Room

Introduction to Word 2007
Thursday, April 29
10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Board Room

Each class is limited to 6 students. Please sign up early by contacting the library.

Computer Tutoring Sessions
Tuesday and Thursday afternoons: 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Thursday evenings: 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard or mouse skills, word processing, Internet searching, online job applications, or e-mail. Schedule a session in advance by calling the library.

FREE MOVIE SCREENINGS AT THE WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
All movies screened in Community Room

Friday April 16th at 6:30 p.m.
Friday Night Flicks presents Fantastic Mr. Fox

The visually ravishing animated movie The Fantastic Mr. Fox follows a fox, voiced by George Clooney and dressed in a natty brown corduroy suit, as he cheerfully and recklessly takes his thieving ways a little too far and brings down the wrath of some sour-faced poultry farmers on his family and friends. Based on the fabulous book by children's author Roald Dahl (who wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach), every corner of the screen crackles with visual invention and whimsical humor. The top-notch vocal cast create vivid personalities that perfectly mesh with the movie's lush colors and luscious textures. Fantastic Mr. Fox is an off-beat gem, a giddy mix of adult emotional issues, wild animal behavior, and childlike delight. Rated: PG
Friday April 23rd at 6:30 p.m.

Friday Night Flicks presents Sherlock Holmes
A brawny, visually arresting period adventure. Robert Downey Jr. is an intriguing choice for the Great Detective, and his trademark bristling energy and off-kilter humor do much to sell this reinvented notion of Holmes. Jude Law is equally well-equipped as a more active Dr. Watson, and together, they make for an engaging team. Downey and Law's amped-up Holmes and Watson are built for the challenge of riding this roller coaster with the audience. Rated: PG-13

Friday April 30th at 6:30 p.m.
Friday Night Flicks presents It�s Complicated
Jane (Meryl Streep) is the mother of three grown kids, owns a thriving Santa Barbara bakery/restaurant and has�after a decade of divorce�an amicable relationship with her ex-husband, attorney Jake (Alec Baldwin.) But when Jane and Jake find themselves out of town for their son�s college graduation, things start to get complicated. An innocent meal together turns into the unimaginable�an affair. With Jake remarried to the much younger Agnes, Jane is now, of all things, the other woman. Caught in the middle of their renewed romance is Adam, an architect hired to remodel Jane's kitchen. Healing from a divorce of his own, Adam starts to fall for Jane, but soon realizes he's become part of a love triangle. Should Jane and Jake move on with their lives, or is love truly lovelier the second time around? It's... complicated. Rated: R

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY TEEN ZONE
Live Turtle Show (school vacation program)
Thursday, April 22nd
11:00-12:00
Community Room
Come and celebrate Earth day with nature at the library! Wallingford proudly welcomes a multi-media live animal show which will explore several different types of turtles from around the world. Participants will have up close meetings with these fascinating creatures. This program was made possible by Wallingford Youth and Social Services and the E.C Stevens Elementary School PTO. Open to all ages.

Wii Pizza Party (school vacation program)
Monday, April 19th
1:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.
Community Room
We had so much fun over February vacation, we are doing it again! Come and play Wii games, chow on some pizza, and meet new friends! We will play a variety of games chosen by you.

Photo Tweaking Contest
There is still time to enter the photo tweaking contest for your shot at winning a new Kodak digital camera. Select one photo of your choice and alter it as you wish using the free online software picnic (www.picnik.com). E-mail the original as well as the altered photo to Teen Librarian Jennifer Nash at jnash@lioninc.org by 5pm on Friday, April 9th. Please do not hesitate to ask the folks at the Information Desk if you need assistance.

Celebrate National Space Day at the Wallingford Public Library
Thursday, April 29th
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Community Room
Wallingford�s Annual Space Day Celebration presents �NASA Comes to Wallingford: An Out of This World Experience.� The special guest of the evening will be Kerri Cahoy, Space Scientist at the NASA Ames Research Center. Come and enjoy a fun, free, educational evening as we hear about NASA�s current and future space exploration missions. This program is sponsored by the Wallingford Public Library, Town of Wallingford Youth & Social Services Department, and the E.C. Stevens School PTO. Please contact the Library at (203)265-6754 for more information. All are welcome to attend.

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!

Your Stories April 2010

2010-04-12T11:46:00.004-04:00

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!

LOCAL BUSINESSES MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
By Andy Reynolds

I have not written in about 2 years now but I was inspired to write about how our local businesses make a difference for all of us every day. As you are probably aware, this paper has never allowed the big box stores and national chain stores to advertise with us. It was always very clear to us who mattered and that was our local business owners.

Who else works as hard as they do to make sure you are happy with the service they provide? Who else knows you and your family? Who else supports every aspect of the community? NO ONE!

As a child my father would bring me into all of the locally owned shops and he would only shop or use the services of local businesses. He knew them and they knew him. We would sit down with them and just talk. If you go into a local business today - the way they treat you has not changed from when my father brought me with him over 30 years ago.

My father told me that our hometown is like an apple. If there were no local business owners and only chain stores left - the apple would look shiny for a while but then collapse upon itself because the inside of the apple was gone. He strongly felt that local business are the core of our community and so do I.

Local business owners are the first to create new jobs and to hire local people. They care about employees and in turn the employees are committed to doing the right thing for customers like you and I.

The offer better services, better products and yes - better prices. They support the local economy by shopping at other local businesses for their needs and of course they are a huge part of our tax base which supports what we have come to expect from our towns.

And let�s not forget that most of the owners live right here in town. They are the ones who support our schools, sports teams, events, non-profits, organizations and more. You don�t see any big box stores putting in a high school booster ad do you?

Starting with this issue, along with what you have always expected of us, you will get a chance to learn more about the local businesses in our towns.

So don�t get boxed in or chained up - stop by a LOCAL business instead. You won�t regret it and you�ll help keep the core of our towns alive and well. Visit http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ to see all of your local business sponsors.

People�s Press � Facebook Poll Results

Follow Andrew Reynolds and The People�s Press on Facebook!

Ketchup or Mustard on your Hamburger or Hot Dog? Mustard for the Dogs and Ketchup for the Burgers. Hamburger or Hot Dot on the grill? Hamburger by a landslide. Yankees or Red Sox? - a tie, Favorite Easter Candy - a tie between Peeps and Jelly Beans, Favorite Alcoholic Beverage - Wine of all types, Favorite Pizza topping a tie between Pepperoni and Mushroom- Favorite Sport is Football - Favorite Hike is Sleeping Giant - Favorite President by a landslide was Reagan. First concert that you went to was won by the J. Geils Band. Favorite Teacher in High School it was a tie between Mr. Mannion and Mr. Cook, Middle School was Mr. Cyr - no clear winner on Elementary. Favorite Ice Cream was a tie also with Cookies and Cream, Coffee, Pistachio and Fudge Tracks/Moose Tracks. Favorite Comedian was a tie between Robin Williams, Tater and yes, Paul Reynolds. Favorite TV Show was a tie between The Brady Bunch and Little House on the Prairie. Favorite Movie was It's a Wonderful Life. Favorite Actor and Actress were Sam Elliot and a tie between Meryl Streep and Drew Barrymore. Favorite Music Group and Indvidual - Beatles and Billy Joel. The winner for favorite food is Pizza.

WALLINGFORD ROTARY GOLF TOURNAMENT
Monday, May 24, 2010 at The Farms Country Club
(Includes lunch, raw bar, happy hour after golf and dinner lobster and turkey & beef carving station.)

Did you know that the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club, has, over the years, donated the Children�s Reference Room at the Library, a Teen house at the YMCA, vans to the Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club and awarded grants to Master�s Manna, the Thanksgiving Community Day Dinner, the Homeless Shelter, Fuel Assistance Program�just to name a few.

Help support this worthwhile Foundation and meet your fellow business associates/professionals by joining us for golf and/or taking out a sponsorship.

For information contact Jon Kaplan at jonathan.kaplan@edwardjones.com or call Pat at 203 640-9016.

Bobbie�s Bevy of Beauties

Those of you who are readers of my articles know my exit from hibernation is set for March 1st. If the weather doesn�t cooperate my return could be as late as April 1st. This year it ended on January 30th.

With my underground friends I had just finished watching the UCONN women with another game when I heard scratching and digging above my head. Then I heard barking which I knew was �LitlBit.� I said to myself something must be wrong. So with his help I dug my way out. Was met by Jimmy�s friend who lives across the street from us and who Jimmy was visiting. On his way home Jimmy tripped, fell, got up but collapsed in the street. When I reached him he was unconscious. I immediately call 911. Taken by ambulance to St. Mary�s Hospital in Waterbury. Almost 2 weeks was spent there. Then eight days at Miller Memorial for therapy. When he returned home, a therapist from the Franciscan Home Care was sent here to continue his treatment. His recovery is almost complete but was a slow one. Some very special thank yous. Family, friends, neighbors and Mark for CPR, get well wishes, cards, prayers, fruit basket, food, warm throw, taxi service, snow shoveling, baby sitting and walking �LitlBit�. May God bless you all.

I would have sent my reader�s opinion to the Record-Journal but since I write for The People�s Press decided to express my feelings in my column. Can�t stand seeing Steven Hayes� mug shot in the paper again and reading about what a rough time he is having. I consider him and his accomplice garbage. When are they going to trial? It�s been almost three years. And there hasn�t even been a jury selection. Plus what the tax payers are shelling out for them. I�ll never forget this one summer day in 2007. Was with my girlfriend and we were on Route 10 in Cheshire making the rounds of nurseries. Coming towards us was a large motorcade. I realized it was the funeral procession for the three female Petit members. What this family had to endure and still is shouldn�t be. But this has been bugging me and I just had to write how I felt about this terrible tragedy.

I�m going to try to put a smile on my face and think of chipper things. I have mentioned Danny and his two beautiful golden retriever pups before. Guess I should say dogs now. Blondie � the sister and her brother Boone are a little over two. Since they live across the street, LitlBit and I see them quite often. They tower above him, almost outweigh me and when they stand and place their front paws on my shoulders they are even taller then I am. Now they have been joined by their Mother Bell and another sister named Ivy. Along with two cats, two parrots and a pet rat. A couple of humans have also entered the picture. I thought my three granddaughters had quite a menagerie. But Danny has them beat.

Good ole clean up time. What fun! It is nice to see some trees showing buds and the bulbed flowers popping up. Cut down you grass plants and the butterfly bush as low two to three feet. The flowering shrubs leave alone until they are through blooming or you�ll lose the flowers. Some of the perennials can also be seen if one looks closely.

Eight years of writing. Can�t believe I could have that much to write about. Originally I just stuck to gardening. Glad I have the opportunity to write about family, other people and make a comment now and then. Until the next issue.

Flowercerely Yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien

P.S Happy 24th Birthday to our grandson Kevin Jr. on April 17, 2010. Love and best wishes from Grammie and Grampie.

I have a photo above of the Golden Retrievers. Front row left to right is Bell and Blondie. Back row left to right is Ivy and Boone.

Wallingford Flower and Gift Shoppe
What is a LOCAL business?

Think about it, a small, hometown business, or a �Mom & Pop� business as it is often referred to is a lot of things to a lot of local people. It employs local people, it purchases products and services from other local merchants, it participates in community activities, it lends a hand to those in need, it supports fundraisers and charitable events, the owners and employees develop personal relationships with their customers and together with other businesses it strengthens our community as a whole.

In 1950, Sal and Ann Greco opened the Wallingford Flower Shoppe on Center Street in downtown Wallingford and they have made it a way of life to follow that recipe. They have provided beautiful flowers for every event imaginable � most happy and some sad, but always as a neighbor and friend. They have given �First Jobs� to countless local teenagers, which is one of their most prideful achievements, one of whom is still there going on 38 years, others who still come back for a day here or there just for the fun of it. When asked, they are always willing to help people or organizations in need. �It�s a great way of life and we have been fortunate to have been a friend, neighbor and Mom & Pop business in this great town of Wallingford�, said Ann Greco.

Unfortunately in 2007, Mr. Greco passed on, but today his mission is still being carried on by his lifelong partner Ann, his son Sal along with his wife Donna and his grandson Salvatore.

�My parents love this town and the people who have always been so kind to us, they have taken immense pride in helping people for sixty years and we will continue to do our very best to always be there for our neighbors. You can�t get that at a cold, box store!� said Sal Greco.

Wallingford Flower and Gift Shoppe is located at 190 Center Street in Wallingford. The phone number is 203-265-1514. Our website is www.wallingfordflower.com!

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!

THE COURTSHIP OF NELSON AND CORA MAE (From Audrey C. Linke's book, THE GOOD OLD DAYS)

He was twenty-eight, handsome, tall, and lean;
She was pert, pretty, and practically eighteen.

A strawberry blonde with eyes of blue,
She wore a dressof matching hue.

His dard, wavy hair was receding a bit,
But it took from his charm not one whit.

She was a guest from out of town;
He was the most eligible bachelor around..

Martha Bell, their mutual friend,
Could see how these two were going to end.

He loved music and danced with grace;
She knew he found her fair of face.

She followed his lead to the banjo and fiddle;
How to see her again, that was the riddle.

Letters of wooing followed the dance;
In no time at all t'was a full-blown romance.

An elopement to Torrington, we find if we delve,
Took place January twentieth, ninetee-twelve.

From Millerton, New York, she came not in vain;
He came from Oxford, by team, trolley, and train.

The couple did wed, and right after the vow,
It was back to the farm, for he must mild the cow.

This started the marriage of forty-five years,
Of Nelson and Cora, My parents, my dears.

NATURAL MEDICINE EXPERTS OPEN IN WALLINGFORD

Natural health therapies are expanding exponentially throughout the country, as people are recognizing that integrative health care is the fastest way to feel better and heal disease. Popular in Western Europe and Asia, the healthiest people have as many experts on their health team as possible. Harvest Park Naturopathic Medicine recently opened in Wallingford, CT, specializing in natural medicine to help people feel stronger, smarter, and more energetic.

Billions of dollars are spent every year on natural medicine, including acupuncture, nutrition, supplements, and botanicals. People are finding there are additional options to add to their current treatment regimen, which makes them feel better and healthier. Research is also being performed across the world and thousands of studies have been published proving that certain natural therapies are safe and effective. Most notably, fish oil, which ten years ago was just being discovered as a beneficial supplement for high cholesterol, is now also available as the pharmaceutical, Lovaza. The future will soon follow suit, and many people now are taking advantages of the benefits of nature.

Dr. Jared M. Skowron and Dr. Nicole Kerr recently opened a medical clinic in Wallingford that specializes in natural therapies. �Health insurance covers naturopathic medicine in the State of Connecticut, and that�s one of the major reasons we can help so many people,� Dr. Skowron explains. Harvest Park Naturopathic Medicine physicians are providers with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Connecticare, Healthnet, and United Healthcare, providing the highest quality natural medicine to the residents of Connecticut.

Dr. Skowron, author of Fundamentals of Naturopathic Pediatrics, the most up-to-date collection of scientific studies on natural remedies for children, is also faculty at University of Bridgeport, where he teaches pediatrics and is founder of the Pediatric & Autism clinic. He specializes in natural medicine for children, notably autism as a Defeat Autism Now (DAN!) doctor. �Huge successes in asthma, IBS, colic, eczema, ADHD, and autism are easy to obtain with natural medicine. By giving the body what it needs to work properly, symptoms disappear.� Dr. Skowron is a national lecturer and has appeared on CT News 30, CT News 12, and Animal Planet Dogs 101 as a medical advisor.

Dr. Kerr, recipient of the Golden Needle Award for expertise in acupuncture, specializes in migraines, IBS, fatigue, and women�s medicine, including PMS and menopausal symptoms. �Acupuncture is a wonderfully relaxing therapy. I wish everyone would experience it at least once in their lifetime,� Dr. Kerr insists. Each individual also responds differently to a specific choice of foods. They avoid dieting, but help people decrease pain with proper food choices.

A visit to Harvest Park Naturopathic Medicine is an enlightening experience. Both Dr. Skowron and Dr. Kerr take time to listen to your concerns and truly attempt to find the cause of the problem to provide the naturopathic answer. Many people are sensitive to foods, toxic with arsenic, or deficient in nutrients, such as Vitamin D, without knowing. Complete lab analyses are performed on everyone, and patients return from a visit healthier and happier.

Harvest Park Naturopathic Medicine is located at 101 N. Plains Industrial Rd #1B, and more information is on their website: www.NaturopathicAnswer.com. Appointments can be made by calling 203-500-5532.

TANYA'S WEDDING

By Cathy Short and Priscilla Reynolds

My daughter, Tanya, was married on March 14, 2010 to Brian Fritz at their new home in Apopka, Florida (about 40 miles east of Orlando). The day was beautiful---magically so!

The wedding took place at their home with the marriage ceremony directed by a Baptist minister on the right side of their yard. The reception followed on the land left of their lovely home.

The joy of preparing for this wedding became an act of Love. The wedding party assisted in decorating and cooking with Tanya's step mother, Sally, in charge. The yard was filled with beautiful, long-living plants (a symbol of a good marriage). A willing group of children and adults cooked the food and decorated the yard where wedding nuptials were held. The tables in the reception tent were made festive with additional decorations. Even the bride contributed to the centerpiece arrangement on each table, a bouquet of green apples, leaves and white ribbons with peach rose petals encircling the vases. Ron, Tanya's father, brewed the beer and made champagne before the wedding. The label on the champagne bottle read "In Commemoration Of The Marriage of Tanya Short and Brian Fritz on March 14, 2010".

Friends and mostly Florida family (Tanya's Connecticut family will celebrate later) filled the chairs set up by Brian's Dad, Bob, the ushers and "anxious to please" children. There were peach rose petals scattered on both sides of the white runner where Mothers, Father, and Grandmother were escorted to the front row; bridesmaids and ushers followed and finally the bride and her father, Ron, met Brian at the garden gate. Tanya and Brian were joined in marriage as they stood before a white arbor decorated with palm leaves and bright flowers. The temperature was in the low 70's and the sky was bright blue with fluffy white clouds.

May the rose petals be a symbol of their lives filled with LOVE!

Wallingford Animal Shelter

Carole Golitko

My support has always been for our Animal Shelter. I find it hard to believe there are still Wallingford residents who do not know it exists. When I talk about the great job & wonderful animals they have (i myself have 3) people say Wallingford has a shelter? Go & visit it�s NOT a pound. These people Lisa Dean & Rachael among the volunteers take wonderful care of those forgotten pets until they have their forever homes. Stop by volunteer bring supplies, if you help more money can go to help the injured for medical supplies. This department has also faced cuts just as we all have. Every time you shop pick up a bag of food a few cans both dog & cat. It helps so much & the appreciation you get from everyone warms your heart.

Easel Works

Easel Works is a small art studio and gallery in Wallingford over looking the train station green. It offers classes for adults and children ages 5+ weekly, monthly workshops , summer art camps, Art Talk and Inprov Painting. Located at 2 Quinnipiac Street - e-mail: easelworks1@snet.net - 203-294-1548

Autism, Learning with Music

Autism as it's known can affect a child in varying degrees. From having trouble in social areas to not speaking. From constantly spinning or flapping hands to not liking to be touched at all.

As parents, educators and neighbors we need to find ways to connect with children who have been diagnosed with Autism, Aspergers, PDD NOS or other labels. Every child can learn. We need to find the way that works for each child best. Every child (with a diagnosis or no label at all) learns in a particular way. Some children see in pictures, and like to figure out how things work. Some children learn by doing. Some by hearing. Some by touch.

Being Read to, flashcards, puzzles, sensory activities and music can make a difference in the lives of ALL children. Music, with it's layers of sound can flood a child's brain with ways to move. Music in it's written form can be processed spatially by the eye and mind and than transferred to an instrument. For some music actually has color, taste and odor. Exploring different instruments can help with both fine and gross motor skills, self control and ways to stimulate that are pleasing to all involved.

At Keys & Strings Music Studio/Kindermusik with Sandie we have had success with children of all levels of the spectrum in both group classes and private study on piano and violin. All children can learn.....we just need to find the way that's best for each child.

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!

Dear Housewives � Central CT Know It All Gals

Dear Readers,Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customerservice issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We willgive you our candid advice from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail � andy@peoplespressnews.com or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.June and Flora

Dear Housewives,
I go to a doctor in Cheshire and I am thinking of leaving. Every I go there is an hour wait just to get in. I am always on time and my time is precious too. At least five of us have the same appointment time and I can't believe they book that many for the same time. Should I switch doctors? Time to go in Meriden

JUNE: I would first complain to the office manager to see if this is typical. If you always have this experience, you may want to consider going to an office that is more patient driven rather than money driven. Good luck, I hope you can find one.

FLORA: When new to a practice, and am booking an appointment, I ask: "Are you squeezing me in or do I have my own slot?" Insurance companies reimburse doctors so low, that to swing it, they over book. It is a loose-loose situation to me!

Have a happy spring to everyone. Get out and enjoy the nice weather.

CURLING
or how I spent a couple of weeks in February 2010!
By Ernie Larsen

Sweep - In the house � Stone � Hard � Sheet � Rock � Weight � Hammer � Steal -Yep Yep Yep!!!!

Any words in the list seem familiar?

They are but a few of a glossary of curling lingo that seems so foreign yet was for me once again a compelling pastime during this past Olympic Games from Vancouver. And this year I think there was more coverage of the sport than I remember from past years Olympics. All three of the NBC affiliated networks, NBC, CNBC and MSNBC, carried games at different times of the day practically took up all of my spare TV viewing time for a couple of weeks in February. And the list is a partial representation of the lingo of this mesmerizing game called curling. For the most part, curling seems out of place on an ice rink that may normally be used for a hockey game. The casual watcher or channel surfer could just pass it by as it isn�t the easiest game to understand. In fact it took me quite a while to figure out the scoring � maybe that�s why some just pass it by. Why it got and held my interest is really a mystery � maybe it was the concentration of the players, their almost slow motion sliding of the stone � or the enthusiasm of the sweepers and the crowd when the rock entered the house.. Who knows, but thank heaven for my DVR so I could record games played when I was not home or when early in the morning or late evenings depending on the time zones.

Or maybe it was watching men and women�s teams competing; with some of the women�s teams more competitive than the men�s. I wonder if they have mixed teams, men and women on a team.

Whatever, I always like to know the origin of things, whether it be words, traditions, games etc. I find that many competitive endeavors arise from routine daily activities. Take the biathlon, cross-country skiing and shooting. The skiing was a way to get around in the snowbound regions of Europe and while you were out might as well take the rifle and shoot some game for supper. And ski jumping � well, I can see Lars and Olaf back in Norway saying I could jump off the barn roof further than you and lo and behold another sport was born. Same goes for figure skating, luge, and bobsled � someone always saying I can do better than you.

But curling � sort of hard to figure this one out, who would say hey, I can slide a 42 pound rock down the ice into a 6 inch circle and get more points than you. Seems sort of obscure � some say it was invented the Scots in the 16th century when they slid odd shaped rocks called �loafies� on the ice of the frozen lochs. And the sport was introduced to the US in the 1830�s by Scottish settlers in Michigan. Whatever the history lit now is a viable sport practiced worldwide.

So getting back to the Olympics, one thing I did notice, age had nothing to do with ability in curling. I think it was the Canadian team, whose senior member was 42 while one of the youngest was 19 or so. I�m still not sure what the big draw was for me � I did do some research and downloaded a few tidbits about curling and found out there is a curling club right here in Connecticut. Maybe someday I�ll take a field trip to check it out in person. Although as in any sport televised the coverage is so much better than you get when in person.

Boy, can�t wait until 2014 the next Olympics- well maybe I�ll just get off my duff and check out the Nutmeg Curling Center:

www.nutmegcurling.com
123 Glenwood Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06610-1622
(203) 615-0077

Curling � a really misunderstood sport, some call it a game � I found it mesmerizing!
See you next month. - Ernie Larsen

Meriden Feed & Supply

Meriden Feed & Supply was founded in 1986 by Chuck & Pat Collins and their four sons (Charlie, Ray, Bill & Kenn). Chuck and Pat had just purchased an "old time" feed store that had specialized mainly in horse, dairy, and poultry feeds. Having grown up on a farm and having been involved in the feed industry for many years, Chuck had always been around feed stores. He and Pat appreciated the casual, easygoing nature of an old feed store. When you walked in the door you were always made to feel welcome. Any question you happened to have was important and an answer was usually just a friendly conversation away. If you didn't see what you needed, it was ordered for you or the owner got it from "out back", for an old time feed store rarely had a large showroom and always had something hiding in the warehouse. When you were ready to leave, your purchases were loaded into your vehicle and you left knowing that your business was truly appreciated.

Chuck and Pat had started Meriden Feed & Supply knowing that times were changing and many of the farms in the area were being sold for development. They quickly began to offer larger selections of pet, garden and wild life supplies to suit their customers needs. Most of their additional product offerings came from customer requests and a desire to provide what their customers wanted. Their showroom grew and eventually they moved to Meriden Feed�s current location at 846 Old Colony Rd, Meriden.

Meriden Feed still has a strong line of products to help you take care of your horse, cow, goat, chickens, llamas or any farm animal. In addition, we specialize in natural and holistic pet foods. We have a full line of supplies for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, small animals and caged birds. In our store you�ll find a large selection of wild bird feed, feeders and houses. Small ponds are available to compliment your flowerbeds or wild bird sanctuary. We also carry mulch, soils, fertilizer and organic products to help you take care of your lawn and garden.

Meriden Feed is still owned by the Collins family and strives to maintain the traditions of the �old time� feed store. Charlie and the Meriden Feed crew (Alan, Dan, Adam, Dave, Tim and Justyn) work hard to provide a friendly, knowledge based, service oriented environment for our customers. Mom (Pat) is still around a few days a week to see our friends and keep us all on our toes. Our business is still centered on helping you take care of the horse, dog, cat, pet, garden or lawn that you love. Please feel free to call us at (203)237-4414. We would love to help you with your dog�s food allergy, your horse�s weight problem, the grubs in your backyard or any other issue you may have. If you don�t see what you need, please ask so we can get it for you. Who knows, we may even have it �out back�. We are open Monday � Friday 8am to 5:30pm and Saturday 8am to 4pm. You are always welcome! We are locate at 846 Old Colony Rd. in Meriden.

Publisher�s Note: One of our online subscribers had this to say �Meriden Feed and Supply have provided food for my horses for the past 26 years; they have always been reliable and friendly. The horses have never gone without the excellent high quality food they need to excel.

The Collins are like family instead of business acquaintances. Kudos to a great family and small business.� Eileen Hunter

My Favorite Time of Day
By Janet Althouse

Isn't God great? I think Easter is a really good time to praise Him. Do you ever stop and think about all the beauty in the world? God gave us so many feasts for our eyes. We should stop to think on that while we are having our Easter feasts.

No matter where you go in this world, there is always something of beauty that God created just for us. Be it at the extreme North Pole where everything is white, but so beautiful with the brilliant blue skies and the contrasting white snow and ice formations. It is also very colorful as can be seen with the ice bergs when the sun and shadows fall on them. Then we have the other extreme, the sweltering jungles with all their lush growths and mountains covered with verdant greens.

But I have, for most of my life, lived in the hills of Western Pennsylvania. Although we are told we live in the Allegheny Mountains, the small town where I live is nestled between tree covered hills. The hills wrap themselves around our little town and we feel sheltered and protected. They are not so high we can't hike to the top, but still they are majestic and a feast for the eyes. Every season brings a new kind of beauty.

But I ramble and I wanted to tell you about my favorite time of day. It is dusk. The first time I fell in love with this time of day was when I was a young girl. I lived in a different small town back then, in the south western part of Pennsylvania as apposed to the north western part where I now live, but it was just as beautiful. We lived more on the top of the hills there and were sometimes called "Ridge Runners". This one day has always stayed with me. Even though I was quite young, I still remember the awe of that moment. My mother had asked me to run to the grocery store for a couple items she needed for supper. It was winter and the snow was quite deep. Up to my knees. It was not far to the store and I trudged along but was suddenly aware of the glow that surrounded me. The sun was just setting and it cast an ethereal radiance over the mounds of snow. Everything was in shades of pink, lavender, yellow and many hues in between. So beautiful it made an lasting impression on my young soul.

Now I live in the north western part of the state, but dusk is still beautiful. Our town has streets that climb the hills. I live on the south side as you go up the hill and have a perfect view of those houses on the north side going up that hill. These two hills overlap with another hill going from south to north and where they meet on level ground, the sun sets. I can look out my windows and see the beautiful colors of the sunset, pinks, reds, oranges, glowing on the houses and buildings in the main part of town. The street lights and the house lights are just coming on and they add to the mixture and make up that ethereal glow and beauty I love. I especially love it at Christmas when the Holiday lights add their festiveness to the earthly glow and enhance the whole scene. It always has a calming effect on me. It is a peaceful and spiritual manifestation on which to feast your eyes. Check it out in your area and see if I'm not right about the awe and wonder of that time of day when day is ending and night is just beginning.

So, what is your favorite time of day? Or maybe you have a favorite season. Don't you want to share it with us? I'm glad I did and I hope you are too.

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 Optical

Jim Comeau is the owner of Wallingford Optical, a member of Wallingford Rotary, and is very involved in many community events and local sporting events.

Wallingford Optical was started in 1966 by the Smith family. Jim bought the store in 2004 and runs it with his sister, Diane Mintich. Both are Licensed Opticians. It is nice being an independent optical shop. We are not told we have to carry all frames by one manufacturer and if a patient is looking for a special frame we do our best to get it. Last year we had a customer who was traveling to Alaska and would be hiking on a glacier. We ordered his special frames that are designed for that area.

Jim also runs an eyeglass clinic on Wednesdays at the Masonic Home clinic. This clinic is special because the patients in the clinic are very grateful to have their eyeglasses adjusted and repaired right there. Many of the patients have had stokes and other problems which affect their vision. Many patients are in walkers and wheel chairs and would have a difficult time getting to Wallingford Optical.

Jim is also very involved in our community. He is a member of the Wallingford Rotary where he serves on the Board of Directors and works on the publicity team. Rotary is special to Jim because it lets him get involved in many local events like Celebrate Wallingford, The 21st Annual Jim Backes Golf Tournament this May 24th and the Quinnipiac River Cleanup. Jim is also involved with fellow Rotarian John Powers and members of the First Baptist Church of Wallingford who go on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic for 10 days during the summer. Jim makes this trip with his family to install Bio-Sand Water filters to the very poor people living in the bateys and also helps the different teams with construction, medical and teaching projects. Jim is also involved in Relay For Life.

Jim grew up in Wallingford and went to Mark T Sheehan High School (1980) and is married to his wife Sandy, they have been together since high school. They have two children JJ, a sophomore at the University of New Haven, and Megan, a junior at Sheehan. JJ and Megan are very involved at their schools and Jim can always be found at a school event or game.

Wallingford Optical is located at 58 Center Street at the corner of Meadow Street. Call us at 203-265-1541, email wallingfordoptical@sbcglobal.net or visit our new Wallingford Optical Facebook page

A BUS TRIP TO FORGET

By Phyllis S. Donovan

Did you know that there is a regular bus line that runs from the Gulf Coast of Florida directly to the ports serving the big cruise lines on the East Coast of that state?

That was news to me a couple of months ago when I agreed to accompany my sister on a cruise to the Caribbean. She was going with a group of neighbors from the Florida vacation community in St. Petersburg where she has a winter home and asked me to come along.

We flew into Tampa and spent a couple of pleasant days relaxing together at her place before leaving on the cruise. (She lives in the Western Massachusetts hill towns so we don't get a lot of chance to just "hang out" together.)

Thirty four people from her complex were going with us on the cruise and they even put on a 'Bon Voyage' breakfast the day before we left. The bus picked us up at 5:30 a.m. right at the community clubhouse and while we napped (it was still dark at that time) sped us south to Sarasota and Fort Myers where we picked up more people before heading east on I-75 across Alligator Alley to reach our destination in Port Everglades at 10:30 a.m. The bus trip took us five hours, with two stops, and we were there in plenty of time to check our bags with the porters and eventually board the Emerald Princess.

We can't say enough about the efficiency of Princess Cruises. From beginning to end, the entire operation ran like clockwork from the boarding procedure, life boat drills, dining room, entertainment, spa and exercise accommodations and off ship excursions. Everything was top drawer and carefully thought out making for a truly flawless experience.

Up until the very end...after we'd left the ship's protective wing.

We had been told on the way to the ship to wait on the last morning until everyone else had disembarked because people with flight and hotel reservations would be getting off first and our buses wouldn't be able to get into the port area to pick us up until later. Obviously Princess knew we were the Gulf Coast "bus people" because we were assigned as the last group to leave the ship. But they had to get ready for the next group of passengers. We sat in the main lobby until they finally told us we had to get off and then left the ship to claim our luggage (ours was all that was left from the thousands of bags that had been picked up earlier.)

Once we'd claimed our bags, we went out on the covered wharf where we sat and watched the people arriving for the next cruise as they left their bags with the porters as we had and filed their way onto the ship.

Where was our bus? There was a "dispatcher" on the wharf, a portly young woman who told us to be patient , but we sat there for over two hours...from 9:15 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. before a bus finally came for us. The young woman driving it busily loaded our bags into the hold of the bus but never offered a word of apology or explanation for her tardiness. It was noon before we settled down and thought we were on our way back to St. Petersburg. But no! Although our 34 was the largest group, we still had to pick up other smaller groups of folks who had come off three or four other ships around the port plus all their bags before we had a full load.

With most of the seats full, we felt encouraged. NOW we could head home. But another bus driver had told our driver that the front tire of our bus looked low and she shouldn't risk a cross-state high-speed trip without getting it checked out.
Still in the port area, we sought out a large parking lot and sat there waiting for a service truck which our driver had summoned to check out the tire. After a half hour or so, the sturdy service truck arrived and with all of us still on the bus, they jacked it up and changed the faulty tire.

We didn't leave Port Everglades until 2 in the afternoon and were told at that time by our driver that she was scheduled to make seven stops to let off people from Naples up along the West Coast. By then folks were grumbling that if they'd flown straight back to New England from Ft. Lauderdale, they'd have probably been home by then!

Slowly we made our way west and started north. By mid-afternoon our dispositions had turned grumpy and our stomachs were all grumbly as we hadn't eaten since an early breakfast onboard and had totally missed lunch.

Every one of our seven stops en route meant getting off the highway, finding the nearest MacDonalds and leaving off people who then had to summon friends or family to pick them up as they were now several hours overdue in arriving there.

At one of the MacDonalds, the driver agreed to let us disembark, use the facilities, order a snack and get right back on the bus as she didn't want to waste time letting us eat there. "But don't spill anything or drop any food," she cautioned us. "If you spill your drinks they'll leak right down into the hold and mess up your luggage. Also, I just had this bus fumigated for roaches and I don't want to deal with any more!" Well, THAT gave us warm fuzzy feeling of confidence. People started pulling up their feet and keeping them away from the floors.

We started feeling sorry for the people we left at the roadside stops as it was now getting dark and they looked like waifs standing there waiting for rides home. Our own final group was strife with grumblers who had expected to get home early enough in the afternoon to watch their beloved Colts win the game which would qualify them to play in the Super Bowl. They had to settle for tuning in to get the results on scratchy transistor radios.

At last, we reached our destination in St. Petersburg at 7:30 p.m. over ten hours after leaving the cruise boat. We never did learn the circumstance of why our particular bus trip was plagued by such a series of snafus but if this particular cruise service doesn't get and remain any better than that, nobody will be taking their buses.
Such a pity to end a cruise to remember with a bus trip we'd rather forget!

Women in Leadership Benefit Luncheon

On May 6, 2010, the Women and Families Center is once again holding the Women in Leadership Benefit Luncheon honoring several women of Meriden, Middlesex County and Greater New Haven for their contributions to the community and to their personal fields of expertise. This year�s winners are Eileen Bongiovanni (Meriden), Rosa Carrero (Middletown), Leah Beth Maille (Middletown), Mimi Rich (Middletown), Tari Marshall-Day (Durham and Meriden). The Volunteer of the Year is Michael Looney from CUNO, a 3M Company.

The awardees represent a variety of disciplines. Mimi Rich is being recognized for her work with families. Rosa Carrero is being honored for her advocacy for women and girls. Eileen Bongiovanni is recognized for her community service work. Tari Marshall-Day will receive recognition for her leadership in the business sector. Leah Beth Maille is being celebrated as our Young Woman in Leadership. We are also pleased to announce that the Connecticut Woman in Leadership of 2010 is Diane Smith, the Emmy award winning TV journalist, author and producer of the long running TV series Positively Connecticut�.

Save the date�May 10, 2010�and join us as we celebrate the achievements of these noteworthy leaders. Please call (203) 235-9297 ext. 110 for more information. The 25th Annual Women in Leadership Luncheon is sponsored by the following: Carmody & Torrance, LLP, Liberty Bank, and Webster Bank.

Women and Families Center is a multi-faceted human service agency serving Meriden, Wallingford, Cheshire, Middlesex County and 12 towns in New Haven County. The Center is committed to eliminating injustice and to improving the quality of life for women and families, through services that foster empowerment and independence. Programs include school-readiness early childhood education, school-age programming, youth outreach and recreation, employment and training, and sexual assault crisis services. www.womenfamilies.org

The Wallingford Victorian Bed and Breakfast

The Wallingford Victorian Bed and Breakfast has new innkeepers, Jeff and Brenda Lee. Jeff works full time in Hartford and helps out on evenings and weekends. Brenda manages the bed and breakfast, welcomes guests, and prepares and serves breakfast. Having always desired to run her own business, the B&B is Brenda�s dream-come-true venture.

Serendipity is the word you could use to describe Brenda�s discovery and eventual ownership of The Wallingford Victorian Bed and Breakfast. While some long time residents of Wallingford are not aware of its existence, Brenda marveled its unique architecture when she came for a visit to Choate Rosemary Hall, passing it on her way to the town center. Later, when she searched for new homes on Realtor.com, she recognized the B&B listing as a residence. Her curiosity was piqued.

Brenda grew up working in a family business in the food industry, gaining first hand knowledge on running a small business and learning the fine art of cooking. After college, she worked in the computer industry as a market analyst in a product development group, acquiring computer and marketing experience she can tap into for running a B&B. She left to start a new career as full-time mother to three children and became embroiled in school activities and volunteer work. Fifteen years later, her children just about grown, she was contemplating on looking for work when the B&B came into her sight. Perfect timing!

Brenda enjoys cooking and entertaining. Most of all, she enjoys meeting and connecting with people, one of the prerequisites to being a successful innkeeper. In the six months since taking over the B&B, she has welcomed over 100 guests. Asked how she likes being an innkeeper, �I love it. The roll-out-of-bed commute is perfect. I love meeting people from different parts of the country, the world, and especially, from this area because I am learning more about Connecticut in the six months as an innkeeper than in the eight years I�ve lived in this state!� From this area? She has guests from this area?

Guests who have stayed at this B&B have come from all over the country like a couple from Minnesota who came to see a concert at the Chevrolet Theatre. They come from overseas to visit their children attending Choate Rosemary Hall or nearby colleges like Yale and Quinnipiac. But, an increasing number are from right here in Connecticut � guests from Hamden, Cheshire, Meriden and even its native town of Wallingford.

Guests like Jeannine and Chris Kremzar of Wallingford who have taken the opportunity to get away and spend a romantic night at the B&B. With friends and family babysitting their children, Jeannine and Chris celebrated Jeannine�s birthday by booking a suite for a night at the bed and breakfast. After a romantic dinner, the suite�s whirlpool tub provided them relaxation and respite from everyday life and some quiet time to share with each other. The beautiful wood paneled 1891 formal dining room is where guests are served breakfast in the morning. Jeannine and Chris were seated in an alcove surrounded by clear antique glass as the morning sunlight welcomed them. Over elegant china place settings on lace tablecloth, a scrumptious breakfast was personally prepared for them. Homemade buttermilk pancakes was a delightful surprise made special with birthday candles to celebrate Jeannine�s birthday. One would think it would end there but innkeepers, Jeff and Brenda, upon learning how Jeannine raise chickens, forged a business relationship to purchase eggs from Jeannine�s chickens. This is indeed a modern-day fairytale ending.
A suite with a small kitchenette is located on the top floor and provides an affordable option for a longer stay ($475/week, less for longer periods.) Just last month, a young resident from Wallingford, didn�t have room in her condo to accommodate her parents from Kansas for a weeklong stay. More affordable than extended-stay hotels, the B&B provided her parents with a wonderful alternative to sterile hotel rooms next to the Interstate.

Its proximity to Wallingford�s historic town center makes it very appealing to those looking for a place where restaurants and shops are just a pleasant stroll past lovely homes and beautiful historic public buildings. Recently the B&B began offering a newly renovated two bedroom, one and a half bath condo as another affordable option for businesspeople and others looking for accommodations of two weeks or longer. Pictures of the rooms, suites and condo can be viewed on the website, www.bedandbreakfastwallingford.com.

Rooms and suites run $159 to $169 per night and include full breakfast, freshly prepared and individualized to each guest. Brenda�s homemade buttermilk pancakes have received rave reviews. Her use of organic ingredients, whenever possible and Jeannine�s local fresh eggs are an added plus everyone enjoys.

13 Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You
1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.
2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.
3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste ... and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.
4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.
5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.
6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.
7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom-and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.
8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door-understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.
9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)
10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.
11. Helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.
12. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.
13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com.)

8 MORE THINGS A BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:

1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.
2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.
3. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.
4. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?
5. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.
6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It's easier than you think to look up your address.
7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.
8. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.

Protection for you and your home
If you don't have a gun, here's a more humane way to wreck someone's evil plans for you. I guess I can get rid of the baseball bat.
Wasp SprayA friend who is a receptionist in a church in a high-risk area was concerned about someone coming into the office on Monday to rob them when they were counting the collection. She asked the local police department about using pepper spray and they recommended to her that she get a can of wasp spray instead.
The wasp spray, they told her, can shoot up to twenty feet away and is a lot more accurate, while with the pepper spray, they have to get too close to you and could overpower you. The wasp spray temporarily blinds an attacker until they get to the hospital for an antidote. She keeps a can on her desk in the office and it doesn't attract attention from people like a can of pepper spray would. She also keeps one nearby at home for home protection. Thought this was interesting and might be of use.
Wasp And Hornet SprayOn the heels of a break-in and beating that left an elderly woman in Toledo dead, self-defense experts have a tip that could save your life. Val Glinka teaches self-defense to students at Sylvania Southview High School . For decades, he's suggested putting a can of wasp and hornet spray near your door or bed.
Glinka says, "This is better than anything I can teach them."
Glinka considers it inexpensive, easy to find, and more effective than mace or pepper spray. The cans typically shoot 20 to 30 feet; so if someone tries to break into your home, Glinka says, "Spray the culprit in the eyes." It's a tip he's given to students for decades. It's also one he wants everyone to hear. If you're looking for protection, Glinka says look to the spray.
"That's going to give you a chance to call the police; maybe get out."
Maybe even save a life.
These ideas about wasp spray was interesting but is only one new way I recently heard some people have used to protect them. This is no endorsement by me or by the Peoples Press just informational point of interest Keith Gordon

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!

Club 24

5 Years, 20,000 Members

In early 2005 Club 24 opened as a small two room fitness center in Wallingford with as much equipment as they could fit and the lowest prices they could afford. After five years, several renovations, and three more locations they are celebrating their fifth birthday and another milestone. �We are rapidly approaching 20,000 members throughout the company� said Barbara Ralston, company General Manager. �We never dreamed it would grow to this level. It just seems like people really are excited about our product and especially our price.� Club 24 originally opened as a CardioExpress location which was a small express fitness club but soon realized they were running out of space. Luckily the building they were in offered additional warehouse space which they quickly renovated and doubled the size of the facility. Future locations were then opened in North Haven and Meriden to keep the locations from getting too crowded. As they moved away from the express concept they also moved away from the CardioExpress name. Club 24 was born and so was the 24 hour concept. �It�s a different world today. People just don�t work 9 to 5 anymore. Most people like to work out after work, but not everyone gets off work at the same time,� says Ralston. With the opening of the fourth club in Brookfield , CT Club 24 is moving into a new concept with Thrive Active. �Thrive Active offers all of the things that made Club 24 so popular with the addition of a dedicated personal training component. It is basically a fifteen thousand square foot personal training center with tons of equipment.� So what is the secret formula for their success? Ralston breaks it down to 3 core areas. �First, we focus on member service. This starts by simply saying hello and goodbye to every member every day. This may seem like a small thing but it really helps us build a relationship with our members. Then, if they have a problem or question, they will feel comfortable approaching a team member. If a member does have a problem, we have a crisis management team that kicks into action to help solve the problem. Second, we focus on club cleanliness. Each location has a full cleanliness inspection twice per week. Each manager receives a score at the end of each month which helps to determine their bonus or company advancement. Finally, we work on keeping our equipment in working order. This is the most challenging because sometimes we are at the mercy of our manufacturers to get us parts for repairs but we have set up systems to try to speed this process. In addition, we ask all of our members to join our advisory board where they grade us daily on these 3 core principles. If we are coming up short, we want to know immediately. These may not seem like huge goals but we have found over the years that this is what is important to members. They want a friendly club where they feel like they belong, they want the club to be as clean as their house, and they want to be able to use the equipment that they are paying for.� So when will they hit this 20,000 member mark? �We expect to see it happen sometime this Fall. Based on our current projections and growth rate it will definitely happen this year.� Club 24 is celebration this fifth anniversary with a one week sale offering a 24 cent enrollment fee and only $10 per month. Look for the coupon in this issue.

FACEBOOK RECONNECTS WALKERS:
Diane Mintich
Among all the negative publicity Facebook gets, there is a lot of positive, as well. Just recently, I have been able to initiate two Walking Clubs, through Facebook.

It all started with my observance of friends postings....�Nice day for a walk� or �Just got back from a hike�, etc. It got me to thinking, hey...a lot of my friends seem to be doing this, individually, or with their family or pet. I wonder if they would like to do it as a group...

For the heck of it, I put it out there. I never expected to get over 30 hits, in the first couple of days! Our first walk, 6 days after the first posting had 12 adults, 4 teenagers and twin babies. We had a nice leisurely stroll while we chit-chatted, took in the scenery and exercised. Very nice! My friends seemed to enjoy it and spread the word, right away. They all expressed desire to continue in the future.

From there, my trainer in Berlin saw it as an opportunity to suggest even more exercise and recommended I start another club, this time in Berlin.

So I did. The first Walking Club is in the town I grew up and work, Wallingford. The second one is in the town in which I�ve lived for the last 15 years, Berlin.

Between the two groups, there are nearly 70 members...in just three weeks! Our goal is to have weekly walks on the group�s established night. They are pickup walks, meaning anyone can join in at any time. One needs not make a commitment, although many do, with hopes of other friends joining along. I just had a friend tell me the other night my Walking Club inspired him to initiate a similar one, in which his high school classmates will be gathering, as well. How cool is that?

Every week, we meet in a different place to vary the scenery up. So far, we�ve walked two linear trails. In the next couple of weeks, we will be walking another linear trail and, as well, walk the Uptown Wallingford District, high schools, etc,.. We walk in safe, established trails.

Finding trails was relatively simple. One can simply visit the Parks & Recreation building and pick up trail maps/literature of over 50 trails within a 50 mile vicinity from Wallingford, or the same information can be downloaded off the internet.

Technology has offered so much in our lives. Just look what it has done here!

Web Solutions
The Evolution of a Solution

Web technologies and leading-edge design work may not be the first things you think about when you think of Meriden, Connecticut, but if Tom Barton has his way, it soon will be.

After graduating from Quinnipiac University and spending a year living abroad in Romania, Barton returned home to Meriden in 1996 where he founded Web Solutions and began offering internet marketing services to local companies.

As use of the web and its technology evolved from early brochure-style web sites to what is now an essential business and marketing tool, Web Solutions excelled in what many traditional marketing firms were lacking � an in-depth knowledge of technology.

�In the early part of this decade, many clients began shifting the focus of their marketing efforts to electronic and web-based mediums and asked Web Solutions to develop or adapt their existing communications strategies around emerging technologies,� said Barton.

The company attacked its niche and never looked back. It has seen double-digit growth year after year and acquired three of other development firms along the way � Exposure.com (2004), JCM Internet Marketing (2007) and Garcia Creative (2008).

As the demand for technology-inclusive communications strategies grew, Web Solutions began to realize its full potential as a player in the state�s marketing community and after a series of tactical hires in recent years, the company now offers strategic consulting, interactive media, web technology, internet marketing, advertising, graphic design, copywriting and public relations services in support of its clients� overall marketing efforts.

Today, with 14 employees and offices centrally located on Pomeroy Avenue, Web Solutions boasts more than 400 clients ranging from non-profits and small businesses to governmental entities and publicly traded corporations, making it one of Connecticut's leading web site design and marketing firms.

�I�d like to say we�ve been lucky but it has been a lot of long hours, dedication and hard work,� said Barton. �If we�re in the right place at the right time, it�s only because we�ve worked diligently to put ourselves in that position.�

At the core of the company�s success is a commitment to understanding every client�s needs and working with them to add creativity and innovation to every level of their organization.

�Every client has unique needs,� said Jonathan Fenwick, creative director at Web Solutions. �It�s not just about creating a web site anymore. It�s about creating a tool that drives each client�s objective, whether it�s sales, building the brand or reinforcing the overall marketing objective.�

The formerly home-based business now has a client list that includes Rutgers University, Middlesex Community College, Simoniz, St. Clements Castle and Magellan Petroleum Corporation, among others.

Despite his success, Barton has remained committed to the community he grew up in and those which the company serves. Through monetary sponsorships, pro-bono work and even some sweat equity, Web Solutions has made over $100,000 in contributions to non-profit organizations throughout Connecticut.

Additionally Web Solutions is a member of the Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA), Connecticut Economic Development Association (CEDAS), Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce, Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, Middlesex Chamber of Commerce, Meriden Rotary Club.

To learn more about Web Solutions, visit websolutions.com

The Joke's on Me
By Janet Althouse

I really love fudge, but don't love standing in front of the stove stirring, stirring and stirring until it boils. I get so tired and my back aches. So this year for Easter I wanted to try a new recipe and had the "brilliant" idea to get my husband involved. He enjoys doing things in the kitchen and has actually won awards for his chili and apple pies. He was quick to agree and I set him to stirring and I got out all the ingredients and put them in the pan. Everything was going smoothly. Everything was in the pan cooking away while Ed was stirring away. The recipe called for crushed cookies and we had added two cups to the mix and I was crushing one more cup to sprinkle over the top after we placed the mixture in a prepared pan. Then the phone rang. It was a friend calling to wish us Happy Easter. I was talking to her when I realized that Ed had taken the third cup of crushed cookies and added them to the mix. "Well"! I had a few things to say about that. But we put the mixture in the pan and put it in the refrigerator.

The next day when I checked it, it was like thick consomme. It tasted really good, but you had to eat it with a spoon. I checked the recipe, but everything looked fine. I decided it had to be that Ed had not stirred it long enough. He, of course, was not willing to accept that the failure was his fault. I took it to my daughters when we went for Easter dinner and her boy friend said it tasted good and would probably work well as a sauce for ice cream. Oh boy! I could not see me eating all those calories - Ice cream plus the soupy fudge. Any way he took a big container of it and we brought the rest home and stuck it back in the refrigerator.

BUT - my husband was not satisfied. He was sure there had to be a mistake in the recipe. He checked it again. And lo and behold, the recipe called for "1 can of milk - 5 oz." I mistakenly assumed this was the regular size can of milk. BUT - guess who was wrong. The regular size can of milk, which I used, was 15 oz. I should have put in a small can of milk which is 5 oz.

So - please remember when trying a new recipe to check all quantities of ingredients. You may not have a friend or husband to blame the failure on. Do I have egg on my face or what?

�Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective�
by Gregory M. Simpson

I am going to run the risk of stating the obvious. It doesn�t seem much of a risk, though, as many people behave as if what I�m about to note is news.

For instance, thanks to Oprah Winfrey, most people have now heard about puppy mills and the horrors that happen there. Still, droves of folks frequent pet stores, many of which are simply the end of the line retail outlets for the same puppy mills they would say that they abhor. Where is the missing link in the communication on this one? Only 15% of people obtain their dogs from shelters and less than 10% for cats. Stop. Think. Visit a shelter. Adopt a friend. Don�t indirectly subsidize puppy mills by buying an animal from a pet store. Be mindful that breeding only condemns to death an equal number of animals at a pound or shelter.

Another topic that sends my temperature rising is someone leaving a dog in the car during hot weather. On an 85-degree day, it takes only 10 minutes for a car�s interior to reach 102 degrees. Heat stroke and permanent brain damage can result. This one should be common sense, but it happens all too often. Further, when the bad idea is pointed out to the offending person, one is often met with hostility. Yet, if asked, I�m sure the offending individual would call himself or herself an animal lover. Again, stop and think.

A common misconception that can directly affect the amount of money an animal organization raises is the notion that shelters are government funded. Wish that it were so. We live in a society where federal taxes are allocated 28.5% to the military and 1.4% for environmental protection. Aside from your local dog pound and animal control officer, virtually all rescue groups and shelters are funded entirely by private donations, grants, and fundraisers.

Since shelters are generally funded through private donations, they are most often maintained by volunteers. For instance, Protectors of Animals, Inc. for which I am on the Board of Directors, is entirely volunteer run. Both the dog and cat divisions have volunteer team leaders. Each donated dollar goes directly to support the animals. Support those who do the most with your dollar.

Another common sense point, unfortunately often overlooked, regards microchips. Caring individuals who microchip their companion animals sometimes make one oversight. They neglect to record with the tracking company the microchip that they have their veterinarian implant.

Companion animals need health care just as their human counterparts do. Despite this rather obvious fact, 36% of companion cats and 17% of companion dogs do not visit a veterinarian. That is more than one of every three cats and almost one out of every five dogs. A companion animal means a lifetime commitment. Securing veterinary care is part of this responsibility.

Cats have been domesticated for thousands of years and need the same supervision that a young child or a companion dog requires. Yet many people let their cats roam at will and hope for the best. A 2001 Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) study found that two out of three veterinarians recommend keeping cats indoors, to avoid dangers ranging from vehicles to disease. Since an outdoor cat�s life span is, on average, one-third the length of an indoor cat, what common sense conclusion would one draw?

Do you consider yourself a cat lover? Then do not declaw. There are no benefits to cats from declawing � none. Veterinarians provide this option at substantial profit for people who care about their furniture more than they care about their cats. If you insist on having a declawed cat, visit a shelter, where you can find many from which to choose.

If you care about animals, chose your entertainment accordingly. For example, do not frequent circuses. Circus animals don�t perform because they want to. They do so because they are afraid not to perform. As another example, forego the city horse drawn carriages. These horses are known to drop from heat exhaustion.

Perhaps the most common sense point of all is to spay or neuter. It is the most thoughtful step one can take to reduce the misery that comes with overpopulation.

I could go on, but I think that you get the point. Take the time to think through your actions or inactions. An animal�s welfare depends on it.
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.

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Home Country
By Slim Randles
U.S. Census Bureau
Capture Center
Phoenix, AZ

Dear Census Bureau:

You can�t imagine my thrill as I drove up to the gate yesterday at my cabin in the middle of nowhere and found that you�d left me a census form to fill out for the place, addressed to S. Navajo Loop, Belen, NM.

This was accurate, by the way, since my little cabin (designated �red cabin� on the envelope) is the only one on S. Navajo Loop. Your designation of red cabin is only half correct, though, because the other half of the cabin is painted yellow. And when I get more yellow paint, I�ll finish the job. The cabin is called �The Birdhouse,� as Bird is the nickname of my buddy who gave me the cabin. This doesn�t mean that very many birds live there, however. In fact, the only resident birds I can think of nest under the house and hatch some babies every summer. I don�t expect them back from winter quarters for maybe another month though. They are brown and nondescript and could probably be classified as dickie birds.

They are only seasonal residents.

As for permanent residents, there is one very long-legged jackrabbit who is usually seen in the yard when I drive up, but runs off when I let the dogs out of the truck. I have no idea whether or not he got married and had pups recently. He doesn�t stick around long enough to ask.

Now for serious permanent residents, I�d have to include the prairie dogs. My acre and a half has three permanent prairie dog towns. Not too big � more like prairie dog villages. As for race � well, they�re a sort of nice New Mexico tan, and for religion, I�d have to say vegetarian, as they worship my baby trees and hope I continue to plant more.

There used to be frequent visits of diamondback rattlesnakes, whose existence was terminated by me as quickly as possible. That is why God made shovels. However, last summer I spent all season without seeing a single one. This is thanks to one of my dogs, a Treeing Walker coonhound named Rocky. On Rocky�s frequent visits to The Birdhouse, he has taken on the task of making certain every rock, every fence post, every bush and every prairie dog hole gets at least a squirt and a half of his attention.

The large water dish on the cabin�s porch is so Rocky can reload when necessary. Rattlesnakes being what they are, they don�t care for the smell of ammonia, so they have steered clear of the place quite nicely.

But of course there is never a clean victory in anything good because this also means the snakes steer clear of the prairie dog villages, so Mr. and Mrs. P. Dog are multiplying and replenishing the place at an astounding rate. This is fine for the population of prairie dogs, but plays hob with the population of Slim�s baby trees.

As for human residents, there are none. If there were, it would be me. I am 67, Protestant, Anglo, occupation newspaper columnist, don�t make enough money, dislocated my shoulder this fall while goose hunting, and must wear corrective lenses. But while The Birdhouse (whose official address is actually 6 Gobernador Street) is a hideout for an aging writer and cowboy who sneaks off as often as possible from the burdens of electricity and running water, I�m not really a resident. I live in Albuquerque with my lovely wife, Catherine, and we�re looking forward to filling out one of your forms when we get one here at the house. We have a mailbox.

I noticed on the envelope you left for me it says �Your Response is Required by Law.� Hey, I�m a law-abiding guy who loves his country. If you should have any more questions about the population down at The Birdhouse, you have only to leave me another note by the barbed-wire fence. And thank you, by the way, because in the eight years I�ve owned the place, this census form was the first mail I�ve ever received there.

Yours for a happy count of happy Americans,

Anthony V. �Slim� Randles
The Half-Red Cabin
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SATs, ACTs, Finals and More!

Does your teen start biting her nails to the bone at the thought of the impending spring testing frenzy? The obvious clue around our house is a lack of erasers. By late April, each and every pencil has lost the little pink thing at the end. This is the time of year when the pressures of back to back finals and standardized college entrance exams are enough to send the most confident teen into a tail spin. However, with the right preparation, your teen will realize that tests are nothing to lose sleep over.

Is your teen suffering from �test anxiety� or is he simply a bit nervous? Mike Malmon-Berg, Ph.D., a psychologist and Coordinator of Mental Health Services at The College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio, explains, �Test anxiety is a specific condition that results from the fear of a negative evaluation. It is similar to the anxiety experienced by employees who are about to be reviewed by a supervisor.� Malmon-Berg reports that virtually everyone experiences some form of nervousness while taking exams, but approximately 20% of students suffer from test anxiety, which he says is characterized by two distinct symptoms. Malmon-Berg describes the first as �a level of angst that is disproportionate to the actual threat or consequences.� The second characteristic is �a degree of distraction that has a significant
negative effect on the individual's performance.�

Parents shouldn�t feel helpless. There are many ways you can help your teen put testing in perspective. Malmon-Berg points out, �Parents can help in several ways. The first is to realize that their job is to help take pressure off their teen, not add to it with demands and quotas.� He warns not to make comments such as �Your college future depends on this grade.� He also adds, �Ironically, most students who experience test anxiety tend already to be fairly high achievers who put undue pressure on themselves. Parents can help by providing a perspective.� Malmon-Berg suggests that parents offer encouraging comments such as �You've always done well in this subject� or �I believe in you, even if sometimes you don't believe in yourself.� He explains, �These will go a long way toward taking a bit of the edge off.� He also advises that parents use humor to take the excess seriousness out of the situation. He suggests that parents remind their teen that one test is not life or death and that a less than desirable grade can be made up for in many other ways.

Even if your teen doesn�t have severe test anxiety, she will still benefit from any assistance and encouragement you can give, along with trying out specific strategies which will help ease her nerves before, during, and after the big test:

Before:
� Don�t cram � prepare well in advance with multiple study sessions
� Ask for help (from your teacher, professor, or competent student)
� Time yourself on practice tests to ease your worry about time constraints
� Lightly review an outline of basic facts shortly before the exam
� Prepare your body: a good night�s sleep and a healthy breakfast go a long way
� College entrance exams: enroll in a test preparation class

During:
� Take a deep breath
� Use positive �self talk�
� Scan the entire test briefly so there are no surprises as you go along
� Take your time and check your work

After:
� Take a walk
� Plan to go somewhere afterwards to take your mind off the test
� Keep mistakes and grades in perspective � what�s the worst that can happen?

TIPS AND TALES (from Teens)
�Most teachers take a lot of what they put on the tests and quizzes right into the exam. Look over previous tests to see what you did wrong and correct them. The morning of the exam, and before going to school, I take 10 to 15 minutes to rehash the things that I studied.�
Ammon Doney � Essex Junction, VT � 17

�I try not to over-cram my brain because I know I will lose all the material in my head. The one thing that I do that really calms me down and helps me out is chew gum. For some reason that always relaxes me.�Sammy Giansante � Berlin, NJ - 16

My Beloved Fluffy
by Diana Lewis

Fluffy died on February 23, 2010. She was 17 years old----in cat years that was 119 years old.

This is the story of her life. I lived at Community Towers in Meriden, and a lady I met there, Ruth. Said I need a cat. She gave me her female cat which was pregnant. Cuddles and I fell instantly in loves. She would not leave my side during the birth. I made her a bed and put it by my bed so she could have her babies in it.

When she started having her babies she would not let me leave her sight. The first one she had was all gray. I called her Smokey, who died in 2007. The next one was a gray and white boy, She was really tired after delivering those two and she had one more to go. I had to get a home cloth and help her finish delivering Fluffy. I think that�s why Fluffy and I ended up being so close.

As Smokey and Fluffy grew, they became part of the family and were treated as such. Once in a while I would give them tuna as a treat, they loved it, but their most favorite treat of all was hostess chocolate donuts. Fluffy even knew the box and would try to get it when she saw it. Catnip was another treat they enjoyed.

At night when we�d go to bed, if Smokey was laying on my hip, then Fluffy would lay on my shoulder. Fluffy sometimes used to like to get under the blanket and have me rub her belly and she would kneed the blanket.

I went to take Fluffy for blood work and everything was fine except the white blood count was quite high but no sign of thyroid or diabetes which we suspected. The vet say it could be cancer.

I watched the next few weeks as she slowly went down hill with her health and knew that it was time to let her go even though I didn�t want to. I couldn�t let her suffer any longer.

Now she is where animals go after death and probably having a good ol� time frolicking with her sister, Smokey, but she is quite missed here.

I love the poem that they sent back with her ashes and I would like to share it with you. . .. . . .

The Rainbow Bridge
There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food, water, and warm spring weather. The old and frail animals are whole again. They play all day with each other.

There is only one thing missing. They are not with their special person who loved him on earth. So, each day they run and play until the day comes when one suddenly looks up. The nose twitches! The eyes are staring! And this one suddenly runs from the group!

You have been seen, and you and your special friend meet, you take or her into your arms and embrace. Your face is kissed again and again and you look into the eyes of your trusting pet. Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.

On April 23rd, monks from the Leverett Peace Pagoda will be walking through Wallingford
as part of a campaign to raise awareness about the abolition of nuclear weapons. They and supporters are walking to inform and rally people for forthcoming Nuclear Non-Proliferation treaty (NPT) Review taking place in New York City in May, as well as the Mayors for Peace program.

The NPT is the international treaty to limit proliferation and eventually abolish nuclear weapons, and promote disarmament and peace. President Obama has pledged support for the 5-year renewal of the treaty this year, and will be part of the international gathering at the United Nations in late April/early May.
The Mayors for Peace program, founded by the mayors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1982, is committed to promote the elimination of nuclear weapons through the grassroots support of mayors around the world. It is an international program that currently has 3,488 member cities around the world � including 152 cities and towns in the United States.

From March 20 until the convening of the NPT, the Monks will be visiting towns throughout New England and beyond to gain support from Mayors along the route. The monks will be walking through cities and towns, trying to meet with someone from the Mayor's office to invite them to join the Mayors for Peace program.

The American Friends Service Committee (Western Massachusetts) is co-sponsoring the walk, and as a national organization AFSC is organizing around the NPT treaty review in May.

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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Love�s Perfect Alignment
By Diana Lewis
Chapter 2
The next morning when the wagons pulled in the driveway, Josie had everything ready for them to load. It took them about an hour to get everything loaded. She turned to Mark and hugged him.
�I will miss you.� she whispered in between tears.
�You will write, won�t you?� asked Mark quietly. It was hard seeing his only sister leave. So what if she was adopted, she was still his sister.
�Sure, I�ll write every chance I get. I love you, Mark.� she kissed his cheek and turned to Mr. Hammond, who helped her up on the wagon and he climbed up himself and turned the wagon around. Mark watched them until they were no longer in sight. Then he ran to his room and cried.
�Do we have enough supplies to get to Idaho?� she asked Mr, Hammond.
�Yes, we took care of getting everything we need before we came to get you. I trust you can cook,� he smiled when he said that.
�Yes, I can cook. The cook taught me when I begged her to teach me.�
�That�s good,� he laughed, �because neither one of us can cook a can of beans.� She looked at him with unbelief.
�Well it looks like it�s a good thing I�m along or you would starve, I imagine.�
They traveled four days and they ran into her birth mother�s wagon train. Mr. Hammond had sent a runner ahead to find them and tell them they were coming, so the wagon trail halted till they arrived.
Mr Hammond introduced Josie to her birth mother, Abigail Warren. She had the same red hair as she did, the same pointed nose, she was almost the spitting imagine of her mother when she was younger and foolish. She sat Josie down beside the wagon wheel.
�I know you have many questions and I want to answer them for you, but let�s get supper out of the way and then we will sit and talk. Josie nodded and she and Abigail got supper going and when they were ready to, Amelia asked Mr. Hammond to bless the meal. Josie didn�t know at first what that meant but she saw everyone bow their heads, so she did the same. His prayer was short and he acted like he was talking to a friend. She wasn�t sure what to make of it, but she didn�t say anything. After the supper dishes were washed, Amelia sat down with Josie.
�I know you have all kinds of questions, dear and I want to answer all that I can.�
�Why didn�t Papa tell me I was adopted?�
�Oh Dear, I didn�t know he never told you. Now I�ve made a mess of things. He�s going to think I kidnaped you. I�m so sorry.�
�I left on my own, I left him a note that Mark will give him. He can�t get you for that.�
�Mama, why would you give your baby girl up?�
�I didn�t want to but I was young and my parents insisted since your father had run off that it was best to give you up for adoption so you would have a better life than I could give you. But then I married a wealthy ranch owner and he helped me find you and told me to bring you back to the ranch so we could be a family.�
�Do I have brothers and sisters?�
�Why, yes, you have four brother and four sisters, and they are going to love you, I miss them all and tomorrow she should starting to head home finally.�
�What are their names?� asked Josie.
�Alright, the oldest is Cameron, he�s 18, he helps his Pa with the ranch now, then there�s Jason, he�s 16, he helps his Pa too, then there�s Melissa, we call her Missie, she�s 15, and then there�s Amanda, she�s 14, and then there�s Paul, we call him, Paulie, he�s 13, and then there�s Jonathan, we call him Jonnie He�s 12, and then there�s Sadie, she�s 11, and then there�s Audrey, she�s 10, and I think that�s all of them.�
�Wow, I�m from a big family. I�m going to love this.� said Josie excitedly.
�They can�t wait to meet you. Well, we better get some sleep. We�re home tomorrow and we have a long way to go. We can talk again tomorrow for more of your questions.� She got up and headed for her wagon and Josie headed for hers.

Washington Park

Summer is coming and I can't help but have great memories of Washington Park in Meriden. As a young child, my parents took me there to fly a kite. As I got older, I learned how to wield a baseball bat and glove. My brother and I played there together with anyone we could find.

We watched the Puerto Rican League softball players as they played the game with great heart and enthusiasm. It was great fun watching these experts hone their craft!!!

One summer I had the privilege of being coached by a man who later played baseball in the New York Mets' farm system. He was extremely friendly and helpful as we watched his batting and fielding skills with awe!!!

My good friend, Joe K., even met a man there who played football in the American Football League!!! I was a lousy football player, but I did go on to play in the Jack Barry Little League, and then in P.O.N.Y. (Protect Our Nation's Youth) League. I played outfield and eventually became a pretty good hitter and pitcher. I'll never forget the time I pitched a two-hitter against a Maloney High School junior varsity picher!!!

A teammate (and also a good friend) , Joe G., eventually went to the University of Hartford with me and became a starter for the baseball team there!!! We once played shortstop and third base together. Our comical friend referred to us as the "Polish Connection".

As I've gotten older, I go to the park to walk and to watch the future sports stars of Meriden become better and better. Thank God that Meriden has Washington Park!!!!!!
Sincerely,
Joe Zaborowski

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Remembering "Big Boy" the Hubbard Park Goose.

For years they called me "Big Boy" that is until the day my dead body was discovered. It was a Tuesday, January 12, 2010 to be exact. A cold day it was, with temperatures only reaching a high of a 34 degrees, just two degrees above freezing. The winter dead trees hovered above me while my broken body lay on the hard frozen ground, still spotted with dirty snow. The air and my body temperature were about the same, cold and damp and raw from death and a brittle chill.

It was the kind of day people avoided going outside unless they had to. A quick trip to the grocery store, at most, for stay at home mothers that planned on using the day to catch up on laundry or dust and vacuum or whip up that new soup recipe they cut out of Sunday�s paper after driving the kid�s to school. A day for commuters to start their cars and let them warm up before heading to the nearest Dunkin Donuts for a hot coffee or a cup of tea. It was the kind of day that construction workers and contractors wore their Carhartt coveralls along with a wool hat and thermal socks. It was a typical January day for most New Englanders but not for me.

You see the night before, just as cold, not that I minded, I wandered away from the others, lost in my own goose world, curiously scouting, maybe, however not afraid when a car had pulled into my residence, Hubbard Park, that�s where I lived. I never really knew why I lived there but I liked it just the same. The elderly would leisurely walk among us like one of our own. There were those that were really good at casting snacks, such as bread or crackers or dried cereal, over their heads and into the pond while me and my group raced to see who would be the lucky one. Children came by the eyefuls, boys and girls, big and small, some outgoing and some shy always like clock work. I miss them the most.

And then there was this car, probably a teenager, maybe a disgruntled person, I�m not really sure but someone with a calloused sense of right or wrong pulled into the park that night and ran me over- dead. Some would have called it an accident but the person responsible for killing me left a note.

�Killed with intent how pathetic we are as a species." I guess that means that killing me was intentional although I never found out why.

Remembering "Big Boy" the Hubbard Park Goose. ~ Coby Bass http://cobybass.blogspot.com/

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!

Home Country
Slim Randles

It was one of those evenings that makes you glad there�s an April. Bob Milford parked his truck in front of the Mule Barn truck stop, then changed his mind and drove the few blocks into town and parked in front of Sarah�s Read Me Now book store and got out.

The air was sweet like wine, warm and flowing over his body. The calves out on the Diamond W were healthy and frolicking all over the place and there had only been three difficult births where he�d had to pull the calves, and those were from first-calf heifers, so it was to be expected.

And he decided what he needed was to see how the rest of the world was waking up to spring, so he drove in from the ranch for the evening. Sarah was just locking up and visited with Bob for a few minutes before heading home for supper. Bob leaned against the wall and kept his eye on the square across the street. Two kids were playing with the cannon, shooting invisible invaders and making the world safe for suppertime in a small American town.

Dud and Anita Campbell were walking across the square, not talking, but just being with each other. Their hands were touching, but there was more there. They were touching each other in a silent way, sharing love and promises. Across the way, Doc and Mrs. Doc stood together, looking in the window of the now-closed hardware store. They looked tired tonight, Bob thought. Neither was that young any more.

Seeing these two couples made Bob a little sorry he wasn�t married, but he�d tried that once and it hadn�t worked out too well. She lived in the city now and was married to another fellow and had three kids.

Oh, he knew it had all happened for the best. He knew it. So he patted the cow dog in the back of his pickup and headed back down the road to the Mule Barn. He would order the special tonight. Maybe some pie, too.

Just the right thing for a warm April evening.

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Brought to you by www.pearsonranch.com/oranges, where, unlike episodic television, each segment is pure bliss.

�Maggie�s Corner�

Move over Beethoven��. Edwin Bartlett is taking over the keys.

Navigating to: Shoreline Out and About

By: Maggie Griffin

A face to face conversation with Edwin Bartlett, founder of Shore Line Out and About, is with no doubt, a conversation that lead me to places I never been. I felt as though I traveled Connecticut just talking to him. Edwin�s mission is a Mission proven possible that has come to life. That mission is building an online community for communities in Connecticut by launching community spirit the traditional way, bringing the tradition to the current and future internet media. Connecticut�s King of Navigation Change includes regionalization in Connecticut with many places to go, see, attend and know about in CT. In today�s economy, this is exactly what people look for, Community Spirit, and Edwin is delivering that spirit to all people. Edwin quoted a Sweet Emotion to my ears: �Our mission is to build an online community, launching the community spirit in Connecticut. Ann Nyberg has taken an interest in us as well because she has the same interests in linking communities throughout the State of Connecticut to.�

Currently Shoreline Out and About has over 50 online contributors who are committed in working with Edwin to produce Shore Line Out and About. On September 18th, the web site for Shoreline Out and About has been released. There you will find sources of weekend events, destinations, music, dining, entertainment, living, the marketplace and more. You will also be able to read columns written by several authors who take pride in writing about what it is they do, research and are committed to. Edwin�s target goal is to include the follow slide of videos. �Between Bruce Barber, Gary Choronzy and I, we certainly have a lot of interesting projects lined up� stated Edwin. As he was telling me about the idea of Bruce Barber bungee jumping, a sudden thought crossed my mind about me taking a challenge jump with Bruce, but only if I am guaranteed that Edwin will secure my cords.

Edwin enjoys absorbing the thoughts of many people through social networks and looking at Community Papers. It was a pleasure, and a compliment, to hear Edwin�s opinion about The People�s Press, a community paper that covers all of Central Connecticut. �The images I see when reading the People�s Press online are captivating. I can see that the owner and publisher does extremely well as a community paper online too because I easily found The People�s Press in a Google Search when searching for community papers online. I enjoy reading The People�s Press News because I enjoy reading the columns and how the images promote what a community is all about� said Edwin.

Part of Edwin�s mission, in bringing communities together, also includes charity work. For example, his support for Pam Landry�s charitable work and commitment to Animal Shelters, Pet adoption services and Animal Rescues. �I met Pam Landry through Ann Nyberg because of the charitable work we do and become interested in� Edwin stated.

Edwin also enjoys the �what is happening in Connecticut� simply by watching and reading community news sources. As for radio stations Edwin does enjoy listening to �The Wigmaster� on WPLR. Edwin stated: �The Wigmaster�s dog needs to become friends with Butch DaVisla� .

Let�s talk about social networks like facebook. The new group Shore Line Out and About on facebook has close to 2500 members and growing. Although social media has taken a leap within the past year from finding people to playing games such as Mafia Wars, Farmville, Caf� World, Fishville and others, groups such as Shoreline Out and About has extreme power to the goal of Navigation Change. When Edwin is on facebook, and other social networks, he reads every post simply to gather the moods of the people.

The athletic talent Edwin has not only encourages other athletes in many communities in CT, but makes him look forward to the upcoming baseball season as he always wanted to play professional baseball and football. At that point I thought it to be best not to tell him I had dinner with Franco Harris of the Pittsburg Steelers last August at the NTDC, worried about who his favorite football team was, therefore I�ll keep that secret to myself. But I am sure he will be pleased to know I had after dinner mints with Tommy Chong at The Westin. But Edwin�s love of sports reaches simple logic along with how the players play; for the love of the game. He is a New York Yankee�s Fan, and he chuckles when he sees Red Sox fans and Yankee fans argue during the baseball season for one reason: �Little do fans know that these players on both teams are friends, they even go to dinner together�, said Edwin.

How did the birth of Shoreline Out and About take place? When Edwin was born, it just came out of him later in life as his destiny. Edwin is a native of Guilford, CT back when only 12,000 people resided in Guilford. �Many people move to a town based on a town�s history. That is why bringing back the sense of a community is vital in values throughout the communities in Connecticut. New comer�s clubs in most areas are members for one year. Out on the shoreline, you can be a member for up to 7 years�, said Edwin.

Edwin�s spirit intrigues me. His goal to bring back traditional community spirit using the level of today�s internet technology certainly is the right step in the right direction for this generation and for generations to come. �It�s a brave new world out there, it�s time to re-write the rules�, Edwin emphasized.

Following my visit with Edwin, I had to stop and buy a dozen homemade cookies at Edwin�s favorite �Red Rooster Baking Company� in Guilford on Route One, where Kimberly Anatra Welch is the master of the dozen in cookies, and she is the owner of this incredible bakery. Those cookies are addictive, they are too good. I have to admit, whether I stop in the bakery or order her finest cookies online, it�s worth it.

I would like to thank Edwin for spending time with me; he is a man with heart, mind and soul with steps moving forward faster than the speed of light. He is an icon in the State of Connecticut who is personable where he truly cares about the people of our State and the communities within.

To conclude, if I take the opportunity to bungee jump with Bruce Barber, I will ask Edwin to hold onto my cords tight, as I will be saluting him before that jump; not just because he is a Veteran of the United State�s Marines, a body builder, bungee jumper, loves to bring people in the communities of Connecticut together along with his enthusiastic nature to explore many ventures; I�ll be saluting Edwin as my last prayer if I ever jump the same time as Bruce. A daring challenge that I am certain Andrew Reynolds, owner of The People�s Press News, will want to take pictures of for many to see as proof that I, Maggie Griffin, am a bungee jumper.

Visit www.ShorelineOutAndAbout.com to learn and see what�s more on this terrific website. Read posts, events and see the shift in Media through Navigation Change. This is a positive move through dynamic directions that Edwin, and the contributors who work with him in producing Shoreline Out and About, are bringing to Connecticut communities. Bringing back the values of each community within one great historical state through recognition of all areas along with topics and regionalization is a gifted goal that plants a growing foundation. This is what Edwin calls �Connecting Connecticut�.
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Spring has sprung at the QRWA
Life along the Q River�
An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association

With the recent warm weather signaling that spring is in the air, the QRWA has a number of events to welcome spring to the watershed area. We�re getting geared up and ready for a spectacular year for our membership and the community.

It all begins on Saturday, April 3rd, from 9am until noon, with the spring river cleanup of the Quinnipiac River and several of its tributaries. This annual event is being spearheaded by Rotary International and the local civic clubs will be along the Q River in Meriden, Wallingford, North Haven, New Haven and Cheshire.

Besides the Rotarians and devoted QRWA members, several youth groups and adult volunteers have signed up. Each town will have a staging area for signups, information, supplies and refreshments. Boots and old clothes are recommended for this adventurous task.

David James, QRWA VP, Secretary and River Cleanup Chair, is thrilled with the involvement of the Rotary Clubs. �We greatly appreciate the Rotary�s efforts. This project helps to meet their club goals and helps the QWRA by providing a willing group of volunteers all along the Q River. When we add in our other volunteers we are a greater force and we get more of the river cleaned up. It�s a win-win for everyone.�

On Saturday, April 10th, the Kiwanis Club helped prepare the Butterfly and Bee Garden as part of their �Kiwanis One Day�. On that day, many Kiwanis Clubs will participate in a local event in their community. Besides the Meriden Kiwanians, students of the local Key and Builders Clubs, who are under the guidance of the Kiwanis Club, will add to the effort, creating an interactive event, spanning generations.

The garden is the newest addition to the QRWA property and will create a sanctuary for butterflies and bees. JoAnne Grabinski, garden coordinator says, �I�m excited that the Kiwanis Club has offered to help get this garden ready for planting. A lot of work needs to be done and they graciously offered to take care of this challenging task.� Maureen Bilger, Kiwanis Past President added, �This is a great opportunity for our club to work together with our younger Key and Builder Club members. And this is such a great project; I can�t wait to see the garden when it�s planted. This will not only attract butterflies and bees but many visitors as well.�

Photographer Ian Christmann will be showing a photo exhibit of �Consider the Quinnipiac� at the State Capital from April 16th through April 30th. Ian was the guest speaker at the QWRA�s Annual meeting this past September at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center. He spoke passionately about the 38 miles of the Quinnipiac River, the abundant views, recreational opportunities and the vital habitats for wildlife. Please visit www.considerthequinnipiac.com for more details.

Next on the list is stocking fish at Red Bridge in Meriden, which will be done during the week prior to Opening Day of Fishing Season on Saturday, April 17th. This has been an ongoing effort for at least 18 years, and we always invite families to help us unload the fish. �We stock rainbow trout, which do well in this area,� noted Mary Mushinsky, QRWA Executive Director. �This stocking effort helps to augment the fish in Hanover Pond and all along the Quinnipiac River.� The QRWA would like to thank board member Peter Picone, Mike Roberts, Meriden - Wallingford Rod and Gun Club and Jon Dingle for their organizing efforts to supplement CT DEP's stocking of trout in the Quinnipiac.

We have the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, which is officially April 22nd. Earth Day is a day designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment. The QRWA is committed to bringing people in touch with nature through awareness, education and programs. Join us as we celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 24th within our watershed territory in North Haven and Hamden.

QRWA Coordinator Sandy Stetson said, �I�m looking forward to these Earth Day events as they bring people together and bring awareness about the QRWA. I get the opportunity to chat with so many people and share with them about what we do to help the environment and the many programs and events we offer to the public.�

And to round out the month of April, the QRWA will be at Meriden�s 32nd Annual Daffodil Festival, April 24th and 25th, again partnering with Meriden Land Trust and Meriden Conservation Commission. QRWA President Ginny Chirsky said, �This is a wonderful weekend for Meriden and its citizens. And of course we�re in great company with the Land Trust and the Conservation Commission, sharing information about the natural resources and recreational activities in Meriden.�

Upcoming QRWA Events � Sunday, May 16, 11 am, 30th Annual Canoe and Kayak Race, launch from the DOT lot on Route 322 in Southington.

The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is a 501c3 organization whose mission is to restore the Quinnipiac for the health and enjoyment of all citizens and communities along its reach and to educate all students, families, individuals, businesses and governments to be informed stewards of the river.

We provide water activities, events in education, outreach, advocacy, scientific monitoring, conservation, restoration, recreation and public access to the watershed area. To learn more about the QRWA and future events please visit our website at www.qrwa.org. Thank you for your support and remember your donations are tax deductable.
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Ace Oil: Serving customers since 1993
Jeffrey and Angela Doucette are serious when they say they own a family business. Ace Oil Co., LLC, of Meriden has employed several family members and a few friends since the start of the operation more than 17 years ago in Deep River.

Today, the company has more than 4,200 customers and has three trucks on the road at any given time. It serves Meriden, Wallingford, Southington, Cheshire, Middletown and the shoreline where the company originally began in 1993.

The Community Economic Development Fund, also based in Meriden, has had a hand in helping Ace Oil Co., LLC, grow over the last few years. CEDF provides flexible financing and support to small companies that have trouble for a variety of reasons finding a conventional loan from a bank. In 2002, with the help of CEDF, Jeff and Angela were able to purchase a new truck, which they needed badly � they were running the wheels off a 25-year-old truck. CEDF has helped many businesses with loans, lines of credit, counseling and business courses. This year the Doucettes� plan on taking CEDF�s Quickbooks accounting software course. With each course they take, CEDF will reduce the interest rate on their loans one-quarter of one percent up to a total of three-quarters of one percent.

Recently Ace Oil has seen an increase in the state and federal assistance programs with the downturn in the economy. But the downturn also illustrates the best part of being in business, Doucette said. �Being self-employed is very important. We have been here in 17 years, and we won�t get fired or laid off tomorrow,� he said. �It is a seasonal business and your income drops during the summer. During the cold weather months we are busy 16-18 hours a day. But no matter what happens, when you own a business, you have something to look forward to every day.�
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March Forward to a Beautiful Lawn.
By Clara Buitrago

Spring is finally here! Have you been looking out the window and wishing that you were out working in your yard, and being able to smell that nice earthy aroma, and having the warm sun on your shoulders? To get you started, here are a few tips on spring lawn care.

One of the first steps to having a healthy lawn is to test your soil. A basic soil test is simple and will let you know the acidity (pH) of the soil. The pH should be between 6.5 and 7.0, which is slightly acidic. The University of Connecticut Department of Plant Science gives 4 simple steps on how to collecting a soil sample.
1. For each area you want tested, use a clean spade or trowel, and take 10 or more slices of soil from different spots throughout the area of interest. Dig from the surface on down to the depth shown here:For grass the depth should be 3 to 4 inches Flowers, vegetables and small fruits the depth should be 6 to 8 inches Trees and shrubs the depth should be 8 to 10 inches For lead testing only, the depth should be � to 2 inches.
2. Place the slices from each area you want tested in a clean bucket.
3. Mix thoroughly and remove ONE CUP of soil for testing.
4. Place the cup of soil in a plastic bag and seal securely with twist tie or "zipper" lock.

Follow steps 1 through 4 for each different area that you want tested. If you are sending in samples from more than one area, be sure to label each bag on the outside with a unique sample name or number. Your sample, along with questionnaire and fees may be sent in a mailing envelope or small box." www.soiltest.uconn.edu

If you see some bare spots on the lawn, planting grass seed is the best solution, the earlier in the spring the better. The overall best time to plant grass seed is in September, because there are cooler temperatures and is less weed competition then.

If there is bare soil Mother Nature will fill a void, if there is bare soil she will plant a weed. So plan your year. What areas look good, what areas need real attention come September? You can feed the lawn by raking some compost into it. About a � inch of compost on the lawn will be a good amount. A good compost that is free of weed seeds is best. Compost can be tested for weed seed by putting some in a pot, watering it and seeing what grows.

Compost will increase the amount of water absorbed and will decrease the need for watering frequency. You can also save money and contribute less to landfills by composting your own biodegradable materials.

The article is submitted by NOFA Organic Land Care Program. CT NOFA (Connecticut chapter of the Northeast Organic Farming Association) promotes methods of farming, gardening, and land care that respect biodiversity, soil, water, air and the needs of future generations through education, support, and advocacy. This seasonal lawn care article is meant to introduce homeowners to a more organic based care of lawns. Using organic methods will benefit lawns and gardens, as well as helping to protect our lakes, rivers, oceans, and sources of drinking water from being contaminated by synthetic pesticides and fertilizers that run off from our lawns or seep into ground water. The articles are made possible through the generous support from the Quinnipiac River Fund, The Watershed Fund, the Newman's Own Foundation,> and the Long Island Sound Future's Fund. The article is authored, in part, by Dwight Brooks a professional landscaper, and Clara Buitrago, Program Coordinator, who is not a professional landscaper.

Please visit our web site to find more information and a NOFA Organic Accredited Landscaper near you.

NOFA Organic Land Care program. www.organiclandcare.net
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"The Joy of Being a Foster Family"
Lori Peck, MHS Dedicated Volunteer

April showers may bring May flowers, but Spring also brings with it kitten season as well. I can't tell you how many times I have oohd and aahd over a litter of new born kittens or what a rush of excitement you feel when you are there to assist and witness the births. Imagine being a part of this or just being able to keep the mother cat and kittens healthy, until they can be adopted.

If you or someone you know has experience with cats or fostering them, then we need you now! The kindest thing you can do for a pregnant mom or a nursing mom with kittens, is to have them be taken care of in a stress free, healthy and happy environment. Although we all love our kitties at the shelter, when they are young they are much more susceptible to germs and disease. And because they are so cute, it is very hard to make sure that everyone does not handle them. So, if you think you can provide a foster home for one of our mother cats, and then please contact our shelter. Imagine the joy and pride you will feel by being a part of this truly amazing experience.

At this time, I would also like to mention a few of our older cats and special needs cats that are also in need of foster homes. This wouldn't take much out of your everyday routine, just some love and t.l.c., that you will surely get back in return. A couple of our shy, older cats are Sunshine and St. Paddy. These girls actually came from the same home and would love to be fostered together or alone. They just need a quiet home and someone to love them. Sebastian and Pinky would love to go to a home with either no other pets, or maybe one other cat. They are truly just tolerating their feline roommates. Boris, Peanut, Alexia and Seamus are all really sweet cats, but have one thing in common; they need to eat special food. Is that so hard? These wonderful cats wouldn't have to stay in a cage (so that they don't eat the other cats food) if they could go to a foster home.

The staff and volunteers do an amazing job with these animals and would love to take them all home, but we all do have a number of our own animals. It's not easy to walk away from them and go home, but you can help us with that. Please think about fostering, adopting or sponsoring one of our pets. Times are hard right now, people are surrendering their adult pets and you can help.

Thank you for listening from your heart. Please view our animals at www.meridenhs.petfinder.org, visit the M.H.S. at 311 Murdock Ave, in Meriden or call us at (203)238-3650. You can also check out our fundraisers as well. See you at the shelter!

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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A Day at the Shelter
V.J. Peregolise � Co-Founder Bikers Against Animal Cruelty

Recently a few of my B.A.A.C. friends and I had the privilege of spending a Saturday at the Meriden Humane Society. We were there to install a security camera system, and by 9am when we arrived, the place was in full swing. Dogs being walked, fed, crates and kennels being cleaned. All this organized chaos seemed to just flow around us, we knew we were in the way, but it really didn�t seem to effect the process unfolding in front of our eyes. Awesome dog after awesome dog was paraded by us to go for their morning walk. Little dogs, big dogs, old and young. Literally, after every dog I saw, and met, I would think to myself how on earth did this dog end up here, he�s great! Then again, I never really met a dog I didn�t like, but these guys were more then what the average person would expect in a shelter dog. They were friendly, obedient, and seemed genuinely happy, which is a huge feat, and a testament to everybody that works, and volunteers there. As the walks came to an end, the staff seemed to transition into the cleaning, organizing, and daily operations of the shelter. Plenty of families coming in looking for dogs or cats. Then a person came in surrendering their dog! I will just say the reason given was less then adequate and was very selfish. That�s when I had the question I had been asking myself about the dogs all morning answered, losers. A lot of these dogs ended up in the humane society, because somewhere along the way they got hooked up with a loser. Now I get it. As sad as I feel for any dog in a shelter, I started to think, maybe in some cases they were better off at the Humane Society. All the people there, genuinely cared for each and every one of them, walked�em and showed them affection. Plus they all had a chance at a better life

Dogs require very little to survive, but the one thing they really can�t thrive without, is love. Sure they need water, food, shelter, but to thrive, to really be a dog, they need to receive affection and love. It doesn�t have to be on a level in which they give love! Lord knows they really set the bar high when it comes to that. I believe the saying is, I can only hope to become the person my dog thinks I am. I have no idea of the numbers, such as how many animals are currently housed there. How many animals get adopted out of there every year. What I do know, is there needs to be more places like this, and more people like this staff to run them. Not only would it make a lot of animals lives better, it would make the world in general a better place. Doing the right thing always does.

It takes a certain kind of person to take on a task as important as this. As much as I admire the staff for the hard work, and the job well done they turn in day after day. I also admire them because they can do what they do, day in and day out, year after year. I honestly think it would break me, fast. I want to take all the dogs home. I also want to cause bodily harm to the abusers. For instance, while we were there, one of the volunteers had to run out to buy a bolt cutter, so he could cut a chain and master lock off the neck of a dog in the animal control office next door. Stuff like that enrages me. So, it just wouldn�t be a good fit for me, so thank god for the people that do it. They are all better people then me, and I know that. Of course, if you were to ask my dogs they would never agree.

www.BikersAgainstAnimalCruelty.org

Autism, Learning with Music
By Sandie Apuzzo

Autism as it's known can affect a child in varying degrees. From having trouble in social areas to not speaking. From constantly spinning or flapping hands to not liking to be touched at all.

As parents, educators and neighbors we need to find ways to connect with children who have been diagnosed with Autism, Aspergers, PDD NOS or other labels. Every child can learn. We need to find the way that works for each child best. Every child (with a diagnosis or no label at all) learns in a particular way. Some children see in pictures, and like to figure out how things work. Some children learn by doing. Some by hearing. Some by touch.

Being Read to, flashcards, puzzles, sensory activities and music can make a difference in the lives of ALL children. Music, with it's layers of sound can flood a child's brain with ways to move. Music in it's written form can be processed spatially by the eye and mind and than transferred to an instrument. For some music actually has color, taste and odor. Exploring different instruments can help with both fine and gross motor skills, self control and ways to stimulate that are pleasing to all involved.

At Keys & Strings Music Studio/Kindermusik with Sandie we have had success with children of all levels of the spectrum in both group classes and private study on piano and violin. All children can learn.....we just need to find the way that's best for each child.

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Keys & Strings Music Studio; Kindermusik with Sandie

Keys & Strings Music Studio/Kindermusik with Sandie offers music for all developmental levels and all ages. Starting from Birth through 7 years of age with and without parent we offer Kindermusik, the premier and longest running International Family Music Program. Kindermusik uses music as the tool to learning not only music, but social skills, fine and gross motor skills, language skills, reading skills and cognitive reasoning skills.

Private lessons on fiddle, violin, viola and piano are offered. Each child/parent and adult student meets or speaks with the instructor to determine the best way to teach based on the potential students learning style. No student is turned away based on development. Our educators always say "Let's Try!" Special Needs children in all of our offerings welcomed with Open Hearts and Musical Minds.

Summer intensives are offered for both Kindermusik (4 week sessions) and longer weeklong half day sessions on Native American Studies, Piano Encounters and Fiddle Camp. Baroque ensemble is also offered from October through June for those students interested in studying this era and learning how to work in a group.

To find out more about our programs please visit Keys & Strings Music Studio/Kindermusik with Sandie by appointment at 31 Hall Ave., Wallingford CT, online at www.musicboxwithsandie.com by phone at 203.265.1500, or follow us on facebook Kindermusik with Sandie @ Keys & Strings Music Studio. Keys & Strings Music Studio, where Love of Music is a Lesson Learned for Life!

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Frugal Living; Getting More for Less in Connecticut!

By Gina Juliano

In April of 2009, I was told I would be laid off from my job as an Assistant Principal in the Hartford Public Schools. I made over $100,000 a year, so it was pretty shocking when I was still unemployed that July and only bringing home $476 each week on unemployment. How was I going to pay my bills and eat? I took a really good look at my finances and decided I had to change some things.

I had always been a pretty good bargain shopper, but I thought there was a way I could do better. I had seen stories about others who used coupons and paid little or nothing for their groceries each week. I thought, �Hmmm. I can do that.� While surfing the Internet I started to stumble on blogs devoted to frugal living. The blogs spelled out very specifically how to use coupons, how to go about getting the best deals, and how to get things for free. Two of the first blogs I read regularly were Frugal Living and Having Fun (www.frugallivingandhavingfun.com) and Maven of Savin (www.mavenofsavin.com). Both of these blogs are written by stay at home moms in the greater Boston, MA area who use their couponing and deal seeking skills to stretch their family�s incomes.

By following their advice, I had soon cut my grocery and drug store purchases by almost 50%. However, I still wasn�t completely satisfied. I was always a bit frustrated when I would go to a store and the sales weren�t the same because the blogs I was following were not Connecticut specific. Over the course of the next few months, I searched the internet for a Connecticut Frugal Blog to no avail. Why was no one blogging about deals and being frugal in Connecticut? Then it hit me � I can do that!

In November of 2009, I started Gina�s Kokopelli (http://ginaskokopelli.blogspot.com).

I focus on free samples; coupons; and how to score free merchandise (legally!) at Stop & Shop, Big Y [with the help of Frugality in the Making (http://frugalityinthemaking.blogspot.com)], Shop Rite, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and CVS. Recently, I also added a category for teachers and search out freebies for them as well.

Since I started Gina�s Kokopelli, I have cut my grocery and drug store spending to an average of $50 per week for a family of four humans, two dogs, and seven cats. I have also managed to donate over $1100 worth of merchandise to Master�s Manna in Wallingford since January. Every single thing I�ve donated was something I was able to get for free or pennies. In addition, I have not spent a dime on deodorant, toothpaste, cold remedies, shampoos, conditioners, razors (the good ones!), toothbrushes, makeup, laundry detergent, body lotions, and so much more for at least six months. I picked up all of these things for free by watching the sales and using coupons. What�s more, I often MAKE MONEY by using coupons.

I�m sure a bunch of you reading this are shaking your heads and thinking, �I�m sure she does really well, but I just don�t have time for all that.� I want to assure you saving money does not take all that much time, especially when the frugal blogs do all the work for you. Here are some other myths about using coupons I want to dispel:

Myth: You only eat processed food and Hamburger Helper type stuff when you coupon.
Reality: Although you can buy those items, I have not sacrificed the quality of what I buy. I still buy lobster and steak.

Myth: Organic foods don�t have coupons.
Reality: LOTS of organic foods have coupons.

Myth: Couponing takes more time than it�s worth.
Reality: Frugal Bloggers do all the work for you. All you have to do is follow their instructions. You can start savings hundreds of dollars each month by putting in as little as an hour of your time per week. Also, think about the time you spend this way. If you put in an hour�s worth of work into making a list and clipping coupons and then you save $20-$30 at the store, didn�t you just MAKE $20-$30? AND you can do this watching TV. Where can you make $30/hr watching TV?

Myth: It takes more time to shop with coupons.
Reality: It actually takes me less time than it used to. I have my list, my coupons, and I know exactly what I�m buying. There is no more meandering through the store, throwing things into the cart. I also like that I�m not shocked by how much money I�ve spent when everything is totaled. I pretty much know what the total will be.

Now that I know all that I do about using coupons, I also help others do what I do. That�s what Gina�s Kokopelli is all about. I know I�m not the only one unemployed and trying to make ends meet. Please feel free to contact me at ginaskokopelli@yahoo.com if you have questions or are interested in having me teach a couponing class.
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We make TV on Mondays...
A Volunteer Team is producing On The Parade Ground at the Wallingford Public Access Station � the electronic Parade Ground. It is anticipated to be an anchor Community TV Program with Wallingford stories that connect the community with its past & future and neighbors at home and abroad. Informing conversations will begin at 7:30 PM. Call-ins begin at 7:45 PM

April 12th our guest is one of the community�s spiritual mothers, Nancy Freyberg of Parents & Kids Foundation. Nancy and host Paul Braccioforte will have a candid conversation about making connections in the service of others. So many of you have broken bread with her...what keeps inspiring after 30 years.

April 19th our guests, Sally Smith and Betty Berger will share stories about making dreams come true for those over 70 and the creation of everlasting smiles by making fresh memories. More info:
www.seniorshavedreams.org

May 3rd our guest will share the latest about Relay for Life - how Wallingford participates in an international movement to end cancer.

On The Parade Ground is on Comcast Cable 18, U-verse 99 WPAA Community Building TV and internet streaming on www.wpaa.tv
Live Mondays at 7:30 PM. Call in 203-265-6310.
Replays Schedule-Monday 9:30-10:00 PMTuesday: 7:30-8PMWednesday: 1:30-2PMFriday: 4:30-5PMSaturday: 5-5:30PMSunday: 11-11:30AM

Absent from locally produced programs has been one that features facilitated civic conversation related to Wallingford specific stories � that is about to change.
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A New Page
Kimberley Linstruth-Beckom

Candles are something that I constantly use in my life. I like all colors, scents, and sizes becauseeach one has a purpose in my house. Some are used to deodorize certain rooms that tend to become a little unpleasant and I use others for meditation purposes. I was running low at one point and decided to buy locally in Middletown. A friend suggested a newly established store and I thought it would be a wonderful place to go to.

I must admit that I was a bit nervous upon walking in. The displays looked very inviting to me aswell as, my very young and inquisitive daughter. She is always touching things and I�m afraidthat those little hands will wind up dropping something one day. Yvette however, put me at ease with a smile and a, �Why don�t you take her over to the crystals? Every child seems to love those. She can touch and hold as many as she likes.�

A calm feeling came over me as I browsed. It could have been from the wonderful smells of the burning incense, or perhaps it was from the cozy fire and beat of the drums during circle. It may have even been from the beautiful displays of crystals, books, and other products geared to aid in the health of your mind, body, and spirit. The Tribal/Holistic online community that is connected to the store could also have something to do with my high spirits. I knew this was a store I�d come back to again and again, not only for candles, but for other products that would enhance my well being. Yvette Page opened A New Page doors on October 4, 2003 after a few setbacks in her life. A New Page was Yvette�s new chapter in life after recovery and a job layoff. She started this new path on Main Street in Middletown. It was a nice store filled with wonderful holistic products however, Yvette yearned for more. She wanted to tie holistic products with tribal healings, and so started the quest for a new store location. The new location was found recently and it boasts a huge outdoor space for Lunar Rhythm drum circle events. It also has a large interior for workshops on Reiki, Candle Making, and even Tarot sessions. A New Page has an online community page on Ning (http://anewpage.ning.com) and this gives one a sense of belonging as well.

Yvette is a wonderful person who goes out of her way to provide great products and services to her consumers. I remember going there for some decorative bells that I keep by my front door. They may look pretty, but their purpose is for a much more practical reason. I have them there as an alarm. They let me know who�s opening the door and closing it, be that my husband, or my little ones. It�s a great product to have when you have small kids or even adults with Alzheimer�s that tend to wander. Yvette was nice enough to order a few more for me and I can�t wait to pick them up!
A New Page is easy to get to off of Route 9 South (Cromwell Exit 19) and Route 372. It�s located on Route 3 at 1060 Newfield Street in Middletown Connecticut.

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!

Connecticut Outdoors
Written By: Paul Narducci
Opening Day of trout fishing is April 17, 2010. With that in mind, lets get ready to fish! Like all outdoorsmen and women it has been a long winter and I am ready to fish. Trout fishing is something I truly love to do and look forward to every year. There is something about a rainbow trout that amazes me and they are simply a magnificent fish. For most people this day always seems to be filled with some sort of tradition. It is this that makes this day totally different than any other day. It is this reason why we all love opening day. For those of you who are new to this madness you may want to head to Uncle B�s Bait and Tackle or to the Fishing Factory in Southington to get some great advise on where to go and what to use. For those of you looking to use lures I have always been a huge fan of anything by Thomas Spinning Lures. My favorite lures to use are the little tiger, the buoyant, rough rider, the special or double spin, the ep spin ,the eel and the Colorado. These are all wonderful lures that catch fish. As always remember to take a kid fishing. They will remember this forever and continue this with their own one day. I hope you all have a happy and wonderful opening day. May you always cherish the memories that this day brings to you and your children. After all, isn�t that what it is really all about , memories of a lifetime.

With the state government in complete financial despair they thought it would be a good idea to increase the cost of a fishing license. Normally I would not have a problem with this until I read it was going into the general fund. Wrong answer!!!! This is a complete misuse of what and where these funds should go. I do not mind doing my share but when are state launches are a complete joke and at times we put ourselves as well as our boats at risk this is a shame. Wouldn�t it be nice to head to Haddam Meadows State park and see four or five boats launching at the same time, real bathrooms , lighted docks, and of course it redone so you don�t scrape your trailer when you pull out. Oh, silly me what was I thinking. Candlewood lake which is the states biggest lake also has wonderful state launches. Once again, what was I saying. These launches are an insult to the state and the people who live hear and use them. Do I really have to go into politics? I would pay more money if it went into the right places and wasn�t misused. I feel most people would feel the same. Unfortunately this isn�t the case so I have to pay more for the same terrible service. In most cases a business ran like this would have a going out of business sign on their front door.

If your looking to join a bass club and would like information log onto www.ctbass.com and all your questions and answers are a fingertip away. Other great fishing websites that will benefit today�s fisherman are www.ctfishtalk.com, www.ctfisherman.com These sites are filled with everything thing you need to fill your fishing appetite. For those fisherman and women who want an opportunity to fish for some big money log onto www.reynolds1859.com for info for their Second Annual Connecticut River Team Tournament which will be held June 12,2010. Frank and I will be there.

Last year this tournament was Connecticut�s biggest open tournament of the year as I am sure it will be this year as well. They will have a cookout as well as a wonderful raffle and drawing. Did I mention what the payout for first place is? This is a great event held by some wonderful people from Reynolds Garage and Marine. If you want an opportunity to fish an excellent tournament on the river this is your chance to shine. I look forward to seeing you there. As always the team from Connecticut Outdoors wishes everyone a great opening day and I�ll see you on the river.

High Risk Situations
BY: Kristina Sarcione

Teenagers should learn to stay out of high risk situations or should learn to make the right decisions when faced with a serious problem. Here are four ways that teenagers put themselves at risk: doing drugs, listening to peer pressure, having unprotected sex and under age drinking. Doing drugs is a poor way of influencing others especially younger brothers and sisters. Drugs affect the body by making people do things they wouldn�t do normally. Drugs can give people permanent mental damage. They can also cause people to commit crimes for money. If people use drugs it can also lead to an overdose which can cause death. Drugs are a serious problem that should be addressed in the society we live in today. Peer pressure is when one listens and is talked into doing something wrong. Sometimes a brother or sister will watch their older sibling and ask if they can do it too. Unprotected sex is very serious because people can catch STD�s and even die. You even put yourself at risk of becoming pregnant. Finding the right person to love is more important than putting yourself at risk. The younger the person starts drinking the more likely they are to become an alcoholic. People who abuse alcohol can become very abusive. People who drink a lot over a period of time, can also cause liver damage. Alcoholism is a disease that people have when they are addicted to alcohol. When we talk about high risk situations it�s always good to think things through. It is important to know what your values are and base your decisions on those values. Ones values usually comes from family, church and school. One shouldn�t have to worry about making good decisions if they are based on their values. I�m telling you this because you could regret doing things that you may wish you never got yourself involved in. I wrote this article because I hate seeing my friends and siblings getting into trouble. I hope everybody reads this so they think before they do something they will regret.

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 Center, Inc.

The central business district has developed over the past 300 years, with growth spurts during the turn of the last century and in the 1950�s. Architecturally, it is a mixture of styles, reflecting its slow but steady growth. Luckily, the district escaped any large scale remodeling and reconstruction efforts, except for the post office, the former town hall and a couple of other misguided modernization projects. By and large, the building facades have remained frozen in time and this is now seen as part of the charm of the district. We call it �authentic and historic�. One can trace the historic and economic growth of the district in the styles of the buildings.

In 1985, members of the Beautification Committee and Don Roe, the Town�s Economic Development Coordinator, began to look at the program called �National Main Street� which is part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation (based in Washington, DC).

In 1987, Wallingford Center, Inc. was incorporated as a private not for profit corporation and was reorganized under the National Main Street guidelines for such revitalization efforts. The Main Street program advocates preserving the historic facades and other unique features of the downtown area while also addressing other revitalization strategies such as promotion, business recruitment and retention, image enhancement, and a restoration of pride in the downtown as the heart of the community. It uses a 4-point approach: (1) Organization, (2) Economic Restructuring, (3) Promotion, and (4) Design. More detail on this program may be found in our Wallingford Center, Inc. brochure. WCI recommends this program to any and all downtown improvement groups. It works very well, and has been successful in Wallingford

WCI receives income from the Town of Wallingford and from private sources through fundraising efforts. It has a 15 member volunteer Board of Directors and currently one full time staff person. It receives support services from the Mayor of Wallingford, the Wallingford Town Council, the Wallingford Economic Development Commission, the Electric Division, the Public Works Department, the Parks and Recreation Department, and Police and Fire Services. There is a real pooling of the resources of many volunteer groups, corporations, small businesses, town departments, and town government. These resources are in the form of monetary donations and active service work.

The Mayor of Wallingford, William W. Dickinson, Jr., has been a supporter of the downtown revitalization effort from its inception, and this support cannot be under-emphasized. From 1985 to the present, the town has made extensive streetscape improvements, which include brick-lined sidewalks, ornamental trees, decorative street lamps and street furniture, and under grounding of utilities. The Historic Railroad Station has been restored, and the Railroad Green and the Parade Ground have been landscaped and accessorized. The gazebo at the Railroad Green has become a downtown focal point. The streetscape improvements have spurred many building owners to invest in facade improvements. This public/private investment partnership is one of the key elements of the program. Other decorative features have been added, including flower gardens planted and maintained by the Wallingford Garden Club, an old-fashioned wishing well replica donated by the Wallingford Wishing Well Association, banners purchased through fundraising efforts by WCI including a large donation by the Public Utilities Commission, holiday wreaths and lights funded by the town, and window decorations & window boxes paid for by the individual owners. Currently, Wallingford Center, Inc. has dressed the windows of the storefront at 156 Center Street to promote the many successful businesses in the downtown. A wonderful Victorian style clock was purchased by the American Legion Shaw-Sinon Post 73 and now stands in front of Town Hall. Pride in the town�s center has been restored and is evident in the cooperative efforts of many groups.

Along with the streetscape and facade improvements, effort is directed at the same time toward improving the economic conditions. The Wallingford Economic Development Commission works with WCI to develop development strategies such as business recruitment and retention and real estate development. The EDC and WCI offer an incentive package for new businesses that move into a vacant downtown space, as well as for existing businesses. We run ads in the local newspaper welcoming new businesses to the downtown, and the newspapers provide excellent feature articles on each and every new business.

This year, Wallingford Center, Inc. and the Economic Development Commission convened a focus group made up of a cross-section of interested downtown leaders. The group is discussing the issues facing the downtown, developing a vision for the future and working on practical goals and strategies.

We have assembled an information packet containing a list of available properties, incentives, demographics, other information, and local brochures. This is distributed to businesses, real estate firms, and to interested citizens upon request. We are also able to help businesses in many other ways through support, referrals, promotion, and group advertising. Occasionally, we produce a brochure of retail businesses in the downtown, but for the most current information, visit our blog.

The town�s center is charming, the streetscape is lovely, and the businesses are all owner-operated, offering excellent personal service. There is a good cluster of antique shops and restaurants. Choate School (with the Paul Mellon Arts Center) is within walking distance, as are The Historic Society�s Parsons House and the future American Silver Museum. The first phase of a linear trail along the Quinnipiac River has been completed and there could be a future linkage to a walking tour of the historic downtown. In the center of the district is a 6-acre historic town cemetery. Residential neighborhoods surround the town�s center, and there are many apartment rental units in the downtown buildings and surrounding areas. There is foot traffic in the downtown.

WCI hosts Celebrate Wallingford, a 2-day festival featuring the �Taste of Wallingford�, entertainment, craft show, children�s activities, and much more, held the first weekend in October. The Gardeners' Market, a newer event held on Saturday mornings in July, August and September has been growing in popularity.
Through these and other efforts the center of Wallingford is still the successful, vital heart of the community.

Find out more at http://www.wallingfordcenterinc.com

Local Motion & Stone Soup?
By Andy Reynolds

One of my favorite stories is about Stone Soup. Where a stranger comes to town and the people ignore him until he starts a fire, places a stone in a pot of water and starts to cook it.

Naturally, the members of the community slowly come out one by one curious at what it is that he�s making and one by one they add something from their own home to the Stone Soup. Before long its stock filled with veggies and turns into a wonderful soup, this simple Stone Soup.

I am incredibly humbled by the amount of ingredients that you�ve shared for our little Stone Soup Newspaper �The People�s Press.� It is a true reflection of who you are and what our communities really stand for. I have received so many calls of support over the years � thank you all for that. Bottom line is that this paper is not about me � it�s about you. It�s not what�s important to me � it�s what�s important to you! Read the wonderful stories and look at the great photos in this issue. They are all about good news, pieces of your lives, and in the end a pretty good Stone Soup.

That does not mean there is not room to improve. If you have not shared the ingredients of your life � it�s about time you did. It could be a poem, a story, a photo, a recipe or some advice that would make a difference in someone else�s life. You will only add to the soup as every month more and more flavors come in and add to the taste.

If you are a community or civic group, we have always promoted your cause and will continue to do so. If you are on a mission, let us help you. If you want to celebrate what someone is or have done, let us help you. If you would like to wish someone a happy birthday or anniversary with a photo, let us help you. If your church has a fund raiser planned, let us help you. The People�s Press wants to give you the help you need before it happens, and not after.

What�s the cost for all of this? It�s FREE! Why is it free? It�s because of the LOCAL businesses that support this paper. They are the fire under the pot of Stone Soup that we cook every month. Notice that this is not a mall paper or jammed with 18,000,000 inserts. It�s just local business owners that love and support the towns that they work and live in. I hope you support them as they have supported you.

In the end, when all is said and done, this paper would be nothing without YOU! Thank you for making us Wallingford and Meriden�s True Community Newspaper!

If you would like to add some ingredients to our next issue the deadline is the 28th. Be a part of the LocalMotion. These will be shared in print and on-line at http://www.peoplespressnews.com/.

Don�t forget to send Mom a special photo wish or story. There are several ways to submit:
Email to: andy@peoplespressnews.com
Mail to: The People�s PressP.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 Email to: andy@peoplespressnews.com
Website: www.peoplespressnews.com and click on the submit button.

Life is Good!

Sincerely,Andy Reynolds � Publisher of The People�s Press

�I�M THE BABY!�

by Audrey Linke
The new mothers in the maternity ward passed around an innocent looking sewing box. When the nurses were out of the room each mother would locate the hidden make-up in the box and quickly transform their pale lips and cheeks to a healthy-looking pink.

It was against hospital rules to wear make-up, but husbands and other family members would soon arrive and each mother wanted to look her best.Gram had come up from New York to take care of Bob, Jeannette, and Alice and they all came to the hospital with Papa to visit me and Mama.

Bob had planned to ask Mama to send me back and get a boy, but when he saw me he changed his mind. �Let�s keep her,� he said, and from then on he was my willing slave. Bob was ten years old when I arrived, a devoted big brother. Jeannette, at eight, was my second mother, loving and attentive, always.

She and Bob fought over who would carry me upstairs and they fought over who would carry me upstairs and they fought over who would carry me downstairs. Alice had mixed emotions�she was five and a half and used to having things pretty much her own way. She proclaimed that she �wasn�t going to be any �servant� to that darned little baby!�

Later, when she was finally allowed to start school she conceded that it was a �good thing that Mama had the baby or she would never let me go to school.� It was probably true-Mama didn�t like to be left home without a child to keep her company. Bob, Jeannette, and Alice had been born at home, but Doctor Harvey sent Mama to Griffin Hospital in Derby to await the arrival of her fourth child�me, Audrey Lucille Cable, and arrive I did, on May 20, 1923.

Mama spent a whole week in the hospital waiting for me, and although she kept busy rolling bandages and helping in other ways, for her it was like a wonderful vacation, the rest Dr. Harvey knew she needed.

On May 29th, Mama�s 30th birthday, Dr. Harvey drove us home to the farm behind the Episcopal Church in Oxford Center. He said he wished he was taking home a baby just like me. Who could blame him?

Christine Ohlman playing at the Meriden Daffodil Festival

This queen of blue-eyed rock n' soul grew up loving equally the sweetness of a Memphis horn line and the raunch of an electric guitar riff, whether played by Muddy Waters, Keith Richards, or Pop Staples. Teased her blonde hair into a beehive in honor of Ronnie Spector and never looked back, picking up a guitar and forging a career as a songwriter in the process. She�s the current, long-time vocalist with the Saturday Night Live Band, who sang at SNL�s 25th Anniversary telecast, Bob Dylan's 30th Anniversary bash at The Garden (with George Harrison, Chrissie Hynde, and others), the 2009 Obama Inaugural Gala in Washington, D.C., The Lincoln Center �American Songbook� series with Sting and Lou Reed, and the Central Park Summerstage Tribute To Janis Joplin (fronting both Big Brother & The Holding Company and the Kozmic Blues Band); appears on Grammy nominees A Tribute To Howlin' Wolf (with Taj Mahal and Lucinda Williams) and Charlie Musselwhite�s One Night In America (with Marty Stuart); sings the theme song for NBC�s 30 Rock; worked on a musical with the late Cy Coleman (who compared her sense of timing to Peggy Lee's); duets live whenever possible with the aforementioned Miss Spector, as well as with blues legends Eddie Kirkland and Hubert Sumlin; collaborated on critically-acclaimed tracks with Marshall Crenshaw (Labour Of Love: The Music of Nick Lowe), Big Al Anderson (Pawn Shop Guitars), and Ian Hunter (Shrunken Heads); edited legendary Rolling Stones producer Andrew Loog Oldham�s autobiography 2Stoned and is a cover-story-writing contributor to Elmore Magazine; and worked with Bonnie Raitt, Ry Cooder & others on the Rhythm & Blues Foundation Awards--all the while continuing to torch clubs up and down the Eastern Seaboard in support of her recordings (Strip, The Hard Way, Radio Queen, Wicked Time, 2008 career retrospective Re-Hive, and 2010�s The Deep End, her first CD of original material in five years, featuring special guests/duet partners Ian Hunter, Dion DiMucci, and Marshall Crenshaw, plus Levon Helm, GE Smith, Andy York, Eric �Roscoe� Ambel, Catherine Russell, Big Al Anderson, and others) with her band Rebel Montez (Michael Colbath-bass; Cliff Goodwin-guitar; Larry Donahue-drums). "I've come here tonight to set your souls on fire," she'll tell an audience. And she will.

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!

April 2010 Town News and Events

2010-04-12T11:24:00.003-04:00

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

As the warm days of April and longer days of sunshine take hold, I'm happy to be spending more time outdoors taking advantage of spring activities. I'm sure you are too!

Planning is nearly completed for this year's Daffodil Festival at Hubbard Park. The parade will be on Saturday April 24 and the festival will be in full swing on Saturday and Sunday the 24th and 25th. Make plans to join the fun at Hubbard Park! Check the newspaper or Meriden Parks Department for the days and times of all the activities that are scheduled.

The area Little Leagues have their opening days this month to kick off their seasons. Best of luck to all the little leaguers and their coaches for a successful season.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 15, 10 - 12 for the Mayor's Spring Cleanup. This is shaping up to be the biggest spring cleanup event ever. Call city hall, Ed Siebert at 203-639-6595 to sign up to help. Tee shirts will be given to all helpers. There will also be a free cookout downtown for the volunteers following the cleanup event.

The Flower Barrel Program starts this month. If you're interested in getting a flower barrel for your business, call city hall to order. We are hoping to double the number of flower barrels that beautify our main streets.

Spring is sprung. Take advantage of all Meriden has to offer to you and your family!

Mike Rohde - Mayor of Meriden

Wallingford Senior Center
238 Washington Street Wallingford, CT 06492 203-265-7753

THURSDAY EVENING PROGRAMS
April 2010

NEW CLASSES
Brain Aerobics Challenge your mind with Debby at 4 p.m. on April 22, in the Creative Arts Room. Please sign up.

Book Club with Patty at 4 p.m. on April 15 in the Library. April�s Book is The Spare Room by Helen Garner.

Great American Best-Sellers Nancy Hall will lead this DVD-based Lifelong Learners Series. Meets weekly in the Library at 5 p.m., beginning April 15.

NEW Zumba Gold Zumba infuses Latin rhythms and simple dance moves to create a fun and exciting total body workout. Come and see what Zumba Gold is all about with a FREE demonstration on April 22 at 6 p.m. Weekly classes begin April 29. Space is limited, please sign up. Cost $25

Tai Chi with Kathy Brenner begins at 7:15 p.m. on April 15, and meets weekly. Please sign up at the front desk. Cost $25.

Computer Workshop with Kevin Ozer on April 22. Please sign up at the front desk. Cost $5.

Bananagrams Learn to play this fun, fast-paced and easy to learn word game. Meets April 22 at 6 p.m. in the Card Room. Please sign up at the front desk.

Texas Hold �Em Poker Sign up at the front desk to join the fun. Must be a WSC member to play, men and women are welcome. Meeting April 29 at 6 p.m. in the Card Room. Please sign up.

Wii Games in the Fitness Room 4-6 p.m.

Ping Pong is available from 4-8:30 p.m.

SAVE THE DATE
A Night on the Town with John Banker�s �Jazz Alive� Band at 6:30 p.m. April 15, in the Great Room. The Band will be playing the music of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, Show Tunes and more. FREE dessert will be served. Dress to impress for our Opening Night!

New Release Movie featuring Amelia, the story of the famous aviatrix, Amelia Earhart. Showing at 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Room , April 22. Starring Hillary Swank and Richard Gere. Rated PG.

Guest Speaker Series Attorney Daniel O. Tully will be giving a presentation on �Estate Planning and Asset Protection� 6:30 p.m. April 29 in the Activity Room. Please sign up at the front desk.

Newcomers Dinner Are you NEW to the Senior Center? Call 203-265-7753 to sign up for this month�s Newcomers Dinner on April 29 at 5 p.m. in the Volunteer Room. Enjoy a delicious meal, meet new people, find out what the Wallingford Senior Center has to offer and get a tour of our beautiful facilities.

LAKE VIEW DINNER
Served from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased, in advance, from the front desk for $6.00.
4/15�Roast Beef with Mushroom Au Jus, Baked Potato with Butter and Sour Cream, Green beans Almondine, Dinner Roll
4/22�Lemon Tilapia with Ritz Cracker Topping, Rice Pilaf, Cole Slaw
4/29�Chicken Vegetable Stew, Buttermilk Biscuit, Caesar Salad
All meals include a beverage.

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 - Wallingford

Dear Friends:

This year we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22nd. What once began as a day of national recognition of environmental concerns has evolved into a world wide campaign to protect our environment.

Wallingford will also be celebrating Earth Day. On April 24th we will have an EARTH DAY SPECIAL with �soil maker composters� for sale at the Town Hall Carriage House from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The unit will turn your yard and food wastes into nutrient rich soil. The composters are priced at $20, payable by check only made out to CRRA. There are limited quantities available. The composters will be on display during April on the second floor of the Town Hall.

Another great way to help protect the environment is by reusing products rather than disposing by burning or burying. Save the date of May 22nd for a Residential Electronics Recycling and Paper Shredding Event at Hamden Middle School, 2623 Dixwell Avenue, from 9:00 a.m. t0 1:00 p.m. Items for recycling include computers, monitors, phones, TVs, VCRs, copiers, fax machines, printers, radios, stereos, camcorders and microwave ovens. If you have questions regarding these events, please call Program Planning at 203-294-2061.

Through everyone�s efforts at home and throughout our community, we can help to reduce the environmental impacts which will affect our quality of life now and in the future.

Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor

City of Meriden NO SPRING LEAF COLLECTIONS

As a reminder, the City does not collect leaves, brush or Christmas trees in the spring. It is the responsibility of each property owner to deliver leaves, brush or Christmas trees to the transfer station located on Evansville Avenue in South Meriden. The transfer station hours are:
Mondays � 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Wednesdays � 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Saturdays � First and Third � 7:30 AM to Noon

Please note that the transfer station will have temporary hours (7:30 A.M to noon) on the second and fourth Saturdays during the month of June for the disposal of leaves, brush and Christmas trees. Materials such as unwanted furniture, broken toys, etc. will only be accepted on the first and third Saturdays. Earlier Saturday hours are not available this year due to construction activities at the transfer station.
Lastly, there is no charge for the disposal of leaves, brush and Christmas trees.
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WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER NEWS AND EVENTS

DAILY ACTIVITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM

Did you know that the Wallingford Senior Center offers a social-model day program designed for seniors with memory impairment? We offer companionship and support that are developed and supervised by a Certified Recreation Therapist, an assistant and many helpful volunteers. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Transportation is provided for Wallingford residents and is handicapped accessible. The daily fee is $18.00 per day for Wallingford residents and $23.00 per day for non-residents. A sample of programs include: Current Events, Group Word Games, Arts & Crafts, Pet Therapy, Old Fashion Sing-A-Longs, Card Games, Baking, and Daily Chair Exercises. Eligibility is based on the physical, mental and social functioning of the prospective participant. If you know someone in need of socialization and guidance throughout the day and experiencing mild memory impairment, please contact Melinda Welch, D.A.I. Coordinator for more information at: 203-265-7753 Ext 205. In an effort to enhance our memory impairment program, we are in the process of changing our program name. Please watch for the official announcement in the May newsletter. Many exciting changes are coming�!

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.

NEW HAVEN EXPO Friday, May 21, 10:00 AM � 2:00 PM.
You are invited to attend the annual expo sponsored by the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut and the City of New Haven to be held at the New Haven Athletic Center, 480 Sherman Parkway, New Haven, CT. Approximately 150 vendors are expected to provide information on a wide variety of topics related to seniors. Vinnie Carr, will provide entertainment. There will be free health screenings and a Wii bowling tournament. Free lunch will be provided and there will be lots of prizes. Sponsors will provide transportation. To sign up for this event, please call (203) 265 7753.

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING CONNPACE
Please be aware that if you do not renew your ConnPACE when it is due, you will not be able to re-enroll until November 15th. This is due to changes that have been made in the ConnPACE program. New enrollment in the ConnPACE Program will be limited to November 15th through December 31st. A few exceptions do apply. You will be able to join ConnPACE 31 days after turning 65 or after becoming eligible for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or State Supplement Insurance (SSI).

WALLINGFORD ELDERLY NUTRITION INFORMATION - The Town of Wallingford is able to provide meals to seniors who meet the criteria. Call the Wallingford Program Planning Department at 203-294-2060 for more information.

FOOD PANTRIES IN WALLINGFORD
Need a little help with your food bill? Listed below are the names, addresses, and times you can visit.
�Angel Food Ministries: Get $75.00 worth of food for $30.00. See member interest table at the center, or call 203-284-8975 for additional information.
�Master�s Manna: 46 North Plains Road (in back). ID required (Photo ID, Birth Certificate or medical card). Distribution times: Tuesday & Thursday, 9-12; Fridays, 4-8 p.m.
�Good News Food Pantry: 46 John Street (Good News Church). Distribution time: Wednesday, 11:00 a. m.�1:00 p.m.
�Local churches: Call your church to find out if there is a food pantry available.

HOMEOWNERS TAX RELIEF PROGRAM & PROPERTY TAX DEFERRAL FOR THE ELDERLY - When: February 1 through May 15 Where: Assessor�s Office � Town Hall Phone: 203-294-2001

LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP - Friday, April 16, 10:15 � 11:15 AM
Michele Tarantino, MPH, OTR/L, Certified Low Vision Therapist will be the speaker for this meeting. She will provide updates on the Library for the Blind. New members welcome! Please call 203-265-7753 to register for this meeting.

VETERANS SERVICES Tuesday, April 27, 1:00 � 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 203-265-7753.

MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM - The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium. Income limits for a single person range from $1778.91 to $2091.67. For a couple, the income limits range from $2393.55 to $2816.67. There is no asset limit. If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Income verification is all that is necessary. This includes gross Social Security benefit (gross is before the $96.50 is taken out of the check), pension, dividends, interest, rental income, gross wages, etc. To schedule an appointment for completing the application, please call 203-265 7753.

BENEFITS SCREENING Tuesday, April 20, 10:00 AM � 12 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 203-265 7753 now to schedule an appointment.

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: $1,669.00 month �Couple Income: $2,246.00 month

For more information or to schedule an appointment to apply for this program, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at 203-265 7753.

2010 GOLF LEAGUE - Our Coed Golf League, held at Miner Hills Golf Course, will begin its 11th season in May. This year, there will be one sixteen-week session, running from May 18 through August 31. The cost for play and the final week cookout is $235.00 for members and $240.00 for non-members. Member Sign-Up begins May 3 (May 10 for non-members). A meeting for all golfers will be held Tuesday, May 11, at 9:30 AM. If you have any questions, please call League Coordinator Howie at 203 265-0412.

COMPUTER LAB OPEN DOOR SESSIONS - The Computer Learning Center is now open on Thursdays from 1:00 � 3:00 PM. Please feel free to come in to check your email, practice class work, browse the internet, check your Facebook, and register to our websites! A volunteer will be available for assistance, but knowledge of computers is required.

THURSDAY EVENING HOURS RESUME! - Thursday, April 15, 9:00 AM � 8:30 PM
April 15th begins our Extended Hours at the Senior Center. Stay and enjoy a delicious meal, prepared by Lake View Caf� and served between 4:30-6:30 PM (meal ticket purchase required). We have a lot of exciting programs and classes scheduled, including Live Entertainment, Guest Speakers, Cooking Demonstrations, New Release Movies, Tai Chi and Zumba Classes, Texas Hold�em Poker, Bananagrams, Computer Workshops, Great Courses Lectures, Book Club and so much more. The Wallingford Senior Center is the place to be on Thursday Nights!

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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!

Senior Permits for Delivery of Household Trash to Wallingford Disposal Site

Department of Public Works203 294-2105Senior Citizen Permits Expire April 10, 2010

Any Wallingford senior citizen (sixty-five years of age and older) or resident having a Medicare card who plans to deliver his or her household trash to the Wallingford Disposal Site (landfill) must obtain a new permit in order to use senior coupons.
The new permits may be secured Monday, April 5, through Thursday, April 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Wallingford Senior Center, 238 Washington Street.

The permit cost is $5.00. Applicants must bring their driver's license, proof or residence, and the current registration for the vehicle that will be used to deliver trash to the disposal site. Permits will be issued only on these dates and times. There are no exceptions.

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Composter Sale for Wallingford Residents

Earth Day Special Saturday, April 24 8:00 AM � 10:00 PM
Town Hall, Carriage House 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492

Change in Hours at Compost Center
Reminder to Wallingford Residents:The Compost Center will be open 6 days per week during the months of APRIL and MAY as follows:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Wallingford Senior Center to Offer Extended Hours

Beginning Thursday, April 15, 2010, the Wallingford Senior Center will offer extended hours of operation, with a variety of evening programs, special events and classes. The Senior Center will be open until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday nights, April 15 through the end of October. We will be celebrating our extended hours with a Kickoff Party entitled �A Night on the Town,� featuring John Banker and his �Jazz Alive� Duo performing the music of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, as well as assorted Show Tunes. This is a FREE performance. We are also pleased to offer a large selection of classes, to appeal to a wide range of interests and abilities. Residents of Wallingford, 60 years and older are invited to participate. Classes will include Book Club Discussions, Zumba Gold and Tai Chi exercise classes, Computer Workshops, Brain Aerobics, Lifelong Learners Series featuring Great American Best-Sellers, Bananagrams and Wii Games. In addition to our classes we have an exciting lineup of Seminars, Special Guest Speakers, Live Cooking Demonstrations, Concerts, New Release Movies and even Cruise Nights, featuring vintage cars in our parking lot. The Lake View Caf� will be serving dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Menu changes weekly. Tickets for dinner can be purchased, in advance, for $6.00 each. There�s so much to do at the Wallingford Senior Center on Thursday Nights. Come join the FUN! For additional information, call 203-265-7753.

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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 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver�s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Caf�. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!

Our Senior Center Volunteer Recognition Day will be held on Wednesday, April 21 at 11:15 AM in Willene�s Place. We will recognize all of our volunteers and also announce the 2010 �Volunteers of the Year�. Please join us for this special event and thank you to all of our volunteers for your work all year long!

Creative Writing Classes with Susan Sandel will resume on Wednesday, April 14 at 1:00 PM. The seven week class will help you learn to express yourself more easily and improve your writing skills. No prior experience is necessary and newcomers are welcome. Please sign-up for this free class in the front office or by calling us at 203.237.0066.

Franciscan Home Care & Hospice Care will present �Aging and Nutrition� in the first floor meeting room on Wednesday, April 14 at 10:30 AM. Sister Suzanne Gross will present an interesting and refreshing synopsis of �aging� as an attitude and a journey of life. Marie Laffin, RN, Clinical Director, will share healthy aging and nutrition. Be sure not to miss this informative and entertaining program, refreshments will be served.

The CT Money School will present �It�s a Long Month � Living on a Fixed Income� on Thursday, April 22 at 10:30 AM in the meeting room. Learn to �stretch� your income by setting priorities, planning and saving. Attention will also be paid to the importance of budgeting. You will learn to establish a budget and the impact it has on successfully living on a fixed income. Sponsored by the Agency on Aging of South Central CT, refreshments will be served.

On Thursday, April 15 we will have our 2nd annual �Grandchildren Day� during school vacation week. A special $2 hot dog lunch will be available for the kids followed by a free bingo open to everyone with $5 gift cards to McDonald�s as prizes. Please invite your grandchildren/great grandchildren and sign-up in Willene�s Place to join us for this special intergenerational event on April 15!

Special thanks to everyone who helped me raise $200 for the Walk for Warmth including Gladys Barnes, Wendy Ortiz, June Salay, Ann Cherney, Helen Rossi, Lillian Semolic, Dorothy Ritchie, Roman & Micki Sikora, Anne Aniskiewicz, Mary & Henry Peczynski, Diana Naimo, Peter & Sharon Burch, Madelyn Muniz, Kay Janiga and Vicki Slowkowski. The event annually raises $20,000 to help people in need in our community.

Free tickets for the May 3 Kiwanis Hi-Liters Show at 7:00 PM are now available at the Senior Center. This year�s show directed by Richard Fontanella is �No Biz like Show Biz�. The show features a cast of 18 youths who have been rehearsing since September and includes two production numbers. Other upcoming events include the Salvation Army Teddy Bear Silent Auction on May 5 and our annual Senior Expo on May 12.

For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director
April 1, 2010

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!

RESIDENTIAL Electronics Recycling and Paper Shredding Event

NO COMMERCIAL MATERIALS ARE ACCEPTED

Saturday, May 22 9:00 AM � 1:00 PM

Hamden Middle School 2623 Dixwell Avenue Hamden, CT 06518

This event is open to residents of Cheshire, Hamden, Meriden, North Haven and Wallingford. No commercial waste is accepted. Please read the flyer for more details, including accepted items and directions. Should Wallingford residents have further questions, please contact the Resource Recovery Project Coordinator at 203-294-2061 (Tuesday through Thursday). Residents of other towns should contact their Town Hall for more information.

CELEBRATE OPEN SPACE DAY
Co-sponsored by the Wallingford Conservation Commission and the Wallingford Land Trust

Sunday, May 2, 20101:00 p.m.Rain Date: Sunday May 16; 1:00 p.m.
Hikes will take place at the northern end of Tyler Mill.

Park at Vietnam Veterans Memorial Field, 1151 East Center St., by the community gardens (look for sign).

Those attending are asked to wear clothing and footwear appropriate for hiking and the weather, and not bring pets or strollers on hikes. Hikes will be held light rain or shine.

For additional information, please call the Environmental Planner at 203 294-2093.

Call 203 294-2063 the day of the event for cancellation information in case of severe weather conditions.

Open Space Day was originally conceived of as a method to increase awareness of the varied open space parcels in the Town, and the opportunities they present for recreation. Each year a different parcel is showcased, either to present recreation opportunities or to display the varied forms that open space takes in Town, and management methods used on these properties. The Tyler Mill Preserve is the �crown jewel� of Wallingford�s open space properties. It is nearly 1,000 acres of forest, fields, trap rock ridge and wetlands surrounding the Muddy River, and comprises some of the most interesting flora and fauna in the Town.

Spring Clean Up Schedule - Begins April 19

The Department of Public Works will begin the Spring Clean Up on Monday, April 19, 2010, for public streets in all sections of Wallingford.

Only brush, wood and leaves will be collected. These materials must meet the following guidelines:

Branches and twigs only. No branch more than four feet long or six inches in diameter will be accepted. Brush must be tied separately in small bundles.

Dimensional lumber, such as two-by-four-inch lumber or plywood, may not exceed four feet in length or width. Wood must be tied separately in small bundles.
Absolutely no wood containing creosote will be picked up.

Leaves must be in paper yard waste bags. No brush, twigs, debris or plastic bags will be accepted. Masking tape only is acceptable to seal bags.

Items placed at the curb must be light enough for one man to put in a truck.

This will be a one-time collection. The Department of Public Works will not return to a street that has already been visited for the collection. Those residents who miss the pick up may take their leaves and brush to the Compost Area at the Recycling Center on John Street.Information Department of Public Works: 203 294-2105.

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!

Local News and Events April 2010

2010-04-12T10:50:00.003-04:00

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!

School Age Child Care

The Wallingford Family YMCA�s School Age Child Care will be holding registration for the coming school year.

Registration for current program participants will be held starting on Monday, May 3rd. Registration materials will be available at all sites, as well as at the YMCA�s Welcome Center.

Open registration begins on Monday, May 17th. This is for all children who are not currently enrolled in the program at this time. Families can register at the YMCA�s Welcome Center.

Any questions can be directed to Jane Rynaski at 203-697-2383, or to the YMCA�s Welcome Center at 203-269-4497.

Fish Stocking

The annual Quinnipiac River Watershed Association fish stocking will take place Wednesday afternoon, April 14th at Meriden in preparation for the opening day of fishing season on Saturday, April 17th. Volunteers will release 160 Rainbow and Brook Trout, ranging from 15 to 22 inches. Interested persons should meet at 5 p.m. at Lions Club Park (Red Bridge) at the entrance of the linear trail in Meriden. The hatchery fish truck will travel the length of the linear trail, stopping periodically and allowing for children accompanied by parents to assist volunteers in releasing the trout. For more information, contact QRWA at 203-237-2237 or qrwa@sbcglobal.net

The Wallingford Education Foundation
Names 2010 Distinguished Alumni

Four graduates of the Wallingford Public Schools were honored as 2010 Distinguished Alumni in March at the Wallingford Education Foundation�s Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner. In addition, an honorary Distinguished Alumni Award will be presented for the first time.

The honorees are:

Jay Cei � A 1972 graduate of Lyman Hall High School, Cei is CFO of Ulbrich Stainless Steel and Special Metals. A certified public account, he has served on the Wallingford Board of Education for five years and is a magna cum laude graduate of Boston College.

Carol Hayden � A 1952 graduate of Wallingford schools, Hayden served on the Board of Education for eight years, retiring last year. She has many years of volunteer service in the schools her four children attended, with particular interest in the School to Career program.

Joseph Mirra � The first honorary awardee, Mirra runs Business Resource Center, chairs Workforce Alliance and is on the Board of MidState Medical Center where is he Board Secretary and Chair of the Development Committee.

Peter Struble � A 1980 graduate of Sheehan High School, Struble is the Chief of the Wallingford Fire Department and an adjunct professor of fire science at the University of New Haven. He heads the New Haven area regional hazardous materials response team, and is a former Chair of the Board of the Wallingford YMCA.

Timothy Wall � A 1980 graduate of Lyman Hall High School, Wall was the youngest person in the state to be appointed a deputy sheriff. Now a Connecticut State Marshal, he is a past Kiwanian of the Year and Rotary Citizen of the Year. He has volunteered with the North Farms Volunteer Fire Department for three decades and serves as its chief.

�We are fortunate to boast such outstanding alumni,� said David Baker, Chair of the Wallingford Education Foundation.

CHORALE CONNECTICUT WELCOMES SPRING
AT ITS �MAY DAY� CONCERT

Chorale Connecticut will present its spring concert �Earth Notes� on Saturday, May 1st, at 7:30 PM in the sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church, 159 E. Main Street in Meriden. The performance, under the direction of Artistic Director, Dorothy Barnhart, promises to lift your spirits, make you laugh and bring you the joy of choral music as performed by the Chorale singers. Joining the Chorale for this concert will be Southington�s DePaolo Middle School Concert Choir, under the direction of Patricia Altieri.

The music is breath taking, with pieces such as Due North, Pippin� Down the Valley Wild, Simple Gifts, May Day Carol, the Mi�kmaq Honour Song and other musical
surprises.

Tickets may be obtained from Chorale members or at the following business locations:
JC Music, 519 West Main Street, Meriden; Valencia Liquor Shop, Lowe�s Plaza, Meriden; Gallagher Travel, 390 Center Street, Wallingford and Just For You Country Gifts, Rte. 322, Southington. Advanced tickets are $18 and $20 at the door. Seniors�s tickets (65) are $15 and children 12 and under will be admitted free with a canned good for the town Food Pantry. For more information, please call (860)621-1653 or visit the Chorale website at http://www.choralect.org/.

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 Judge elected Executive Secretary of Connecticut Probate Assembly

Wallingford Probate Judge Philip A. Wright, Jr. was elected Executive Secretary of the Connecticut Probate Assembly at the assembly�s annual meeting today. Judge Wright is also Administrative Judge of the Central Connecticut Regional Children�s Probate Court, which brings court staff, local and state agencies, and families together to find a stable, safe environment for children, and ongoing support for families.

Judge Wright has served on the Connecticut Probate Assembly's Ethics and Legislative Committees, as chair of the Planning Committee, and is a member of the Weighted Workload Committee.

In addition to his judicial duties, Judge Wright is a member of the Board of Governors of Midstate Medical Center, and a member of the Ethics Committee of the Wallingford Visiting Nurses Association, and is a past member of the Board of Directors of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Meriden/Wallingford. He is also a past member of the Board of Directors of the Wallingford Hawks Youth Hockey Association.

Judge Wright is a graduate of Lyman Hall High School, Southern Connecticut State University, and the Syracuse University College of Law.

All of the state�s 117 probate judges are members of the Connecticut Probate Assembly, which dates back to 1883. The state Legislature granted the organization official recognition in 1941.

"Chasing Corelli" - l'academie

Sunday, April 18th, 3:00 p.m. Center Congregational Church
474 Broad St., Meriden, corner of Broad and East Main Sts.

Admission: $10 at the door, no reservations necessary.

l'academie is a Boston-based baroque orchestra dedicated to engaging performances of the highest quality.

Imitation is the highest form of flattery and Arcangelo Corelli had this in spades. Although not reponsible for creating the concerto grosso form, Corelli wrote the first great music for it and popularized it. It soon inspired a generation of composers- Handel, Vivaldi, Locatell and Bach- to create their own masterpieces. L'Academie presents a very special program of the concerto grosso form as fashioned through the hands of Locatelli, Handel, Van Wassenaer and of course, Corelli.
www.centerchurchmeriden.org www.lacademiemusic.org

Bus Trip
THE EVANGELICAL & REFORMED U.C.C. on April 24th, 2010 will have a Bus Trip to Mohegan Sun. Leaving the Wallingford Senior Center at 9am, return around 5:30pm. Cost is: $30.00. Will get a casino bonus of: $10 Buffet, and $15 betting couponPlease call: Esther at: 203-269-2708. ASAPThis will benefit our April fund raiser.
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RESIDENTIAL Electronics Recycling and Paper Shredding Event
NO COMMERCIAL MATERIALS ARE ACCEPTED
Saturday, May 22 9:00 AM � 1:00 PM
Hamden Middle School, 2623 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT 06518

This event is open to residents of Cheshire, Hamden, Meriden, North Haven and Wallingford. No commercial waste is accepted. Please read the flyer for more details, including accepted items and directions.

Should Wallingford residents have further questions, please contact the Resource Recovery Project Coordinator at 203-294-2061 (Tuesday through Thursday). Residents of other towns should contact their Town Hall for more information.

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Southington Genealogical Society
April 2010 Meeting

We all love Google, but are you aware of the tips and tricks available from Google to refine your search and make searching simpler and more effective? On April 27th, the Southington Genealogical Society welcomes Sheila Lafferty who will speak on "Savvy Searching: Going Beyond the Basic Google Search Box". Sheila will give you some insider's tips to make your searching easier. The meeting will take place in the meeting room of Southington Police Headquarters. Ample parking is available. Refreshments will be served. There is no admission charge and no obligation to become a member. No reservations are necessary. Sheila A. Lafferty is the Director of the Julia Brooker Thompson Library at UConn Torrington and has worked for University of Connecticut Libraries since 1989. Sheila is responsible for instruction/reference services and is Library Liaison for Undergraduate Programs at the Torrington campus. Sheila occasionally offers a one credit class for freshmen and sophomore UConn students, "Tracing your family history" and has been a genealogy hobbyist since her young teens. In her spare time, she can be found using her searching skills in tracing her family history and helping others with their genealogy search. The Southington Genealogical Society is a non-profit organization located in central Connecticut that promotes the accurate recording, research and preservation of family history. The society regularly meets at 7:30 pm on the fourth Tuesday of every month, except December, at Southington Police Headquarters, 69 Lazy Lane, Southington, Connecticut.

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MERIDEN CHALLENGER BASEBALL
The Meriden Challenger Baseball Team sponsored by the Civitan Club of Meriden/Wallingford, and sanctioned by Little League is looking for boys and girls ages 5-18 for this year�s team who are physically/mentally challenged. The season runs from the end of April to the end of June. Please call Hollis Hartford at 203-237-4653 or Dennis Johnson at 203-238-4288 for more information.
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Meriden Lions Club Duck Race Brookside Park

Our annual Duck Race will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2009 on Harbor Brook at Brookside Park, located at Broad Street and Bunker Avenue.

In conjunction with the Duck Race will be held at Baldwin's Pond on May 17 from 9:00 am until noon for children up to 12 years of age. Registration will begin at 8:30 with fishing derby to start at 9:00. All children 12 years of age and younger who register will be given a voucher for food and a soft drink. Winners will be announced in many categories and prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the Fish Derby. Race will be held at 2:30 pm on May 17, 2009 with ticket sales until 2:00.

Duck Race activities include a city wide coloring contest for children of grammar school age. Past years have brought over 2,500 entries.

Our Duck Race is entertainment for the whole family. Over 2,000 rubber ducks are released at one time to tear down to a finish line where winners are announced and prizes awarded. For additional information, ask any Meriden Lions Club members or email us at lions@meridenlionsclub.com

Event Tri-Chairmen: Jim Bartolotta (Phone 203-630-1113), Jack Fontanella (Phone 203-687-8876), Fran Zygmont (Phone 203-634-3188) All proceeds of this event are distributed to various charitable causes.
______________________________________________________________________________________BEARS, BEARS AND MORE BEARS!!
THE SALVATION ARMY INVITE YOU TO BE A PART OF OUR FIRST BEAR SILENT AUCTION!
ALL FUNDS WILL HELP SERVE THE NEEDS OF MANY FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY!
HOSTED BY THE MERIDEN SENIOR CENTER 22-26 W. Main Street
DATE: WEDNESDAY MAY 5, 2010
TIME: 10:30 AM
HAVE A BEARY MOTHER�S DAY!
Prizes for best dress bears will be awarded! So come and join the fun!
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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!

The Wallingford Land Trust, Inc. Work Party Days

Yes work can be fun (as long as it's not at the office). That why it's a work PARTY!
On the third Saturday of every month (Starting this April 21st) We will do various small property maintenance projects such as trash pickup, trail clearing, erosion control, sign and blaze improvement and the like. The work party will start at 9:00am and last about 3 to 4 hours. We will meet at the cul-de-sac on Barns Road North (entrance to Spruce Glen property), unless another location is indicated on the web site. The first work party will be April 21st and we will be doing our spring property cleanup. We will visit each of our properties and pickup trash at the access points. We will meet at Spruce Glen and we will go from there.

So mark the 3rd Saturday of the month for some work and fun.

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The Wallingford Junior Football League 2010 Registration Dates
Saturday, May 15, 2010, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Saturday, June 5, 2010, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
At the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department

Save the date for
The Second Annual Wallingford Vikings Golf Tournament Friday, June 25, 2010 The Tradition Golf Club

More information to come in the coming weeks
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Sheehan Class of 85 Reunion Planned

Attention Mark T. Sheehan High School Class of 1985 grads: The 25th class reunion is planned for Friday, November 26, 2010. Additional information can be found online at: www.MTS85.info. Alumni are encouraged to register for reunion updates and information while visiting the site.

Our 25th reunion is coming and we still need to get the word out to about half of our fellow graduates. Would you take a few minutes to look over the list of missing alums below or under the "Missing Classmates," tab on www.MTS85.info to see if you know where any of these folks are? If you have their contact information, would you please call, email, or write them and encourage them to register at www.MTS85.info? Maybe you know their relatives, or any other connection? Even if they don't think they'll attend our 25th Reunion in November, it would be great to have them register to stay up to date on the Reunion and on other Class of '85 news.

Thanks for your help, and don't hesitate to contact any of the Reunion Team Members (look for the listing on www.MTS85.info) with any questions!

Missing Classmates:
Ronald Arena
Robert Barker
Cliff Bartlett
Scott Baylow
Brian Beckert
Jim Bennett
Renee Bergeron
Ken Bloom
Paul Bonito
Tom Brann
John Brinkley
Janet Bush
Carolyn Butterfield
Romana Caires
Cathy Candella
Joel Canino
Mark Carver
Kim Carlin
Debra Celotto
Penni Chasse
Robert Cirillo
Warren Corriveau
Laura Cote
Joeseph Cretella
Maria D'Angelo
Lori Delmolino
Patricia DelVecchia
Peter DeRoy
Carrie Diaz
Peter DiGioa
Deanna DiPasquale
Lisanne Dorsey
Deirdre Doyle
Denise Errato
Chris Fishbein
Fred Franzoni
Mike Fritz
Richand Gagne
Beth Geiger
Stephen Giannini
Christopher Goddard
James Gombita
Matt Griffin
Lisa Grillo
Gregg Harrison
Steve Hatch
Marc Henderson
Holly Hulicki
Gary Kinney
Teresa LaBree
David LaCoss
Teresa Lacourse
Jack Larese
Rick Lewis
Pete Limosani
Eileen Linaberry
Phil Longley
Tina Longley
Rosemary Lopez
Robert Lynch
Jennifer Marks
Ernie Martino
Lisa Massaro
Anna-Karin Mattson
Paul McCarthy
Danny McKeehan
Robert Merski
Laura Misiaszek
Don Moores
Pat Morrissey
Sue Mullen
Janet Nehez
Dan Page
Robert Parris
Ted Piekarski
Jennifer Pilon
Cynthia Pomerleau
Ruth Preble
Donna Proto
Michael Reeves
Marty Regan
Jeff Rhodes
Jim Roblee
Willie Robles
David Routh
Tom Ruggiero
Chris Sabino
Doug Sabino
Amy Sage
Mickey Saldana
Jose Santiago
Robin Saul
Susan Schaefer
Mike Sgambati
Mike Silvia
Lisa Simler
Mike Skapczynski
John Slocum
Harvey Stanley
Thelma Starrs
Blanche Steele
Mike Sullivan
Diane Sypek
John Taylor
Joe Turner
Marissa Turtola
Maynard Vass
Mary Velardi
Jody Vincent
Joe Warro
Jim Weyan
tHajime Yano
Curt Zemke
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Class of 1985 - Orville Platt High School 25th Reunion

We will be having our Reunion July 24th, 2010 RSVP by May 31, 2010Anyone interested in attending can contact Ida Zimmer (860) 621-0267 or email idazimmer@yahoo.com. You can register on classmates.com or join us on facebook.com for more information.

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Mohegan Sun Bus Trip
The E & R U.C.C will sponsor a trip to Mohegan Sun, on Saturday, April 24, 2010.9am departure from the Wallingford Senior Center and return around 5:30pm.Advance Ticket Purchase only. To reserve your seat ASAP make out check to:The Evangelical & Reformed U.C.C. and mail to: E. Tierney, P.O.Box 3, Wallingford, Ct. 06492.Ticket price: $30.00 inludes $30.00 casino bonus package.All proceeds to benefit our April Fundraiser
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25th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction

The 25th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction will be held on Tuesday, June 1, 2010, at the Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, Connecticut. The special anniversary celebration will feature many famous sports figures including Jim Calhoun and Sparky Anderson. This year the recipient of the Saint Francis Award will be George Grand. Mr. Grand is the former play by play television announcer for the Cincinnati Reds and ESPN�s first SportsCenter sportscaster.

Jim Calhoun, University of Connecticut Head Basketball Coach, will present the Jim Calhoun Community Service Award to Emmy Award winning broadcast journalist, Al Terzi. Mr. Terzi is a Channel 3 EyeWitness News anchor.

The Silent Auction will begin at 5:30 pm. Program and dinner will start at 6:30 pm. For more information call (203) 237-8084 or visit the web site www.flcenter.org.

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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Jim Backes Memorial Golf Tournament

The Wallingford Rotary is hosting its 21st annual Jim Backes Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, May 24th at The Farms Country Club in Wallingford. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club.

Over several years the Wallingford Foundation has donated to many local community
organizations, including the Children�s Reference Room at the Wallingford Library, the Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club, Master�s Manna, the YMCA Teen House, the Thanksgiving Community Day Dinner, the Homeless Shelter and the Fuel Assistance Program, just to name a few. The outreach of the Wallingford Foundation has also touched the international community and shipped an ambulance, generator and medical supplies to the Good Samaritan Hospital in the Dominican Republic.

For information regarding the golf tournament, contact jonathan.kaplan@edwardjones.com

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The CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center in Wallingford,
a non profit organization, is hosting its fourth annual Run for Autism on Sunday, May 2, 2010.

This 5K Run will take place on the private running field at Choate Rosemary Hall HS in Wallingford, 8:30 AM .
Cash prize of $100 for the top overall finisher.
High School students can
attain community service hours by soliciting donations and competing in the race.
Fee: $30 adults, $15 students through grade 12.
Registration form can be obtained by visiting our website, www.ctautismwalk.com
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The Second Annual Understanding Autism Fundraiser

Understanding Autism is a fund-raising event to bring about awareness for the most commonly diagnosed neurological disorder-Autism.April is Autism awareness month and you can help us to change the image of Autism. With drinks ,great food,wonderful music,fun and knowledge!

The event will be held at:Rosie's Cafe at 194 Camp Street,Meriden,Ct.

On Thursday , April 29,6-10 p.m.

Music performed by Sean and Kelley Moore

There will be a raffle with lots of prizes!

All tips and raffle donations will be donated to 'Autism Speaks"
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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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TOUCH A SHARK DURING MYSTIC AQUARIUM�S SHARK WEEK APRIL 14 TO 20
April vacation week activities focus on all things shark; guests can have close encounters at the new shark touch pool

See sharks of all shapes and sizes (including some you may not even realize are sharks!) during Shark Week at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration from April 14 to 20. Among the April vacation week activities is the chance to touch live sharks at the new shark touch pool.

Opening on April 1, the shallow touch pool provides guests the opportunity to reach in and touch docile white-spotted bamboo and coral cat sharks as they swim by, while learning about conservation of all shark species. The pool houses six sharks, all one to three feet in length.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, kids will learn about shark adaptations, diets, myths and conservation through interactive cart activities, games, presentations and crafts. Guests will be able to smell common scents as a shark would, participate in a shark scavenger hunt to learn about the various species at the aquarium, get an up-close look at shark teeth, fins and jaws, and play games to learn shark facts versus myths and threats sharks face in the wild.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 14 to Tuesday, April 20
Activities take place at scheduled times between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day

WHERE: Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration
55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355

COST: Free with aquarium admission: Adults $26, seniors $23, kids (ages 3 to 17) $19, free for children 2 and under

For more information, call (860) 572-5955 or visit mysticaquarium.org.

WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA SPLASH WEEK:
April 19 thru April 22nd.

YMCA Splash teaches children to learn basic swimming skills and water safety practices. While participating in this program, young people learn about the Y's core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. This program is open to pre-school ages 3 thru 5 and children in grades kindergarten thru grade 6. Parents register their child for one 30 minute time slot to attend Monday thru Thursday of the YMCA Splash Week.

Pre-School class offerings: 8:00a.m., 8:30a.m., 9:00; 9:30 or 10:00a.m.. School Age offerings: Grades 1 & 2(8:00-8:30am or 10:00-10:30am);

Grades 3 & 4 (8:30-9:00a.m.)and Grades 5 & 6(9:00-9:30am).

Registration begins March 24 thru April 14th or until class size is met. Pre-Registration is required.

The fee for this program is $5.00 per child. For further questions; please contact Lisa Hoover at (203) 269-4497; ext. 20 or lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

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WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA OFFERS BABYSITTER�S COURSE!
This American Red Cross certification course is offered to those boys and girls ages 11-15.

This program provides the skills and confidence to safely and responsibly care for children and infants. Through hands-on activities, interactive video and lively discussions; the course teaches young people how to make good decisions, create age appropriate play, demonstrate first aid skills including rescue-breathing and choking.

This course takes place on Saturday, May 15th from 8:30-12:30. Fee $30.00 per YMCA Member; $60.00 Per Program Member.

Pre-Registration is required. Space is limited. Questions; please contact Lisa Hoover at (203) 269-4497; ext. 20 or lhoover@wallingfordymca.org

EAT and Enjoy
Monday, April 19, 2010 4:00 � 8:00 p.m. - Fund-raising Dinner -Avanti Restaurant, Meriden

To benefit The Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care
20% of proceeds from the meal support the mission of the Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care. For more information call Gretchen Rossi @ (203) 237-8084 or visit web sites at www.franciscanhc.org. or www.flcenter.org. For reservations call Avanti Restaurant at (203) 440-9990.

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Upcoming April Events at the Augusta 2010

Saturday, 17th---Meriden Arts Council will be holding their Annual Scholarship Fundraiser. See www.meridenartscouncil.org for more info. Tickets are just $20, MAC members receive a $5 discount. Bring your own snacks and drinks, enjoy being with friends and dance through the evening for a great cause! Doors open at 6pm, music begins at 7pm. Seating is limited so try to get your tickets in advance. Call 203-213-7366 or e-mail to meridenartscouncil@gmail.com.

Sunday, 18th---Augusta Curtis Concert Band will be performing their Spring Concert in Hubbard Park at 2pm on the tennis courts under the tent for pre-Daffodil Festival Events. Admission $5 and children under 11 free.

Sat. & Sun. 24th & 25th---The ACCC will have a food booth in the Big Tent at Daffodil. Visit our booth for some wonderful cookies and to support your favorite non-profit arts organization.

Tuesday, 27th---ACCC & Meriden Land Trust present Annual Lecture at 7pm. Presenting: Dan DeLuca, the Leatherman. See www.curtisculturalcenter.org or www.meridenlandtrust.com for more information.

See www.curtisculturalcenter.org for more info on any of the above events or call 203-639-2856 for sponsorship information!

MAY

Saturday, 1st---Chorale CT Reception after the Concert held across the street at the First United Methodist Church.

Sunday, 2nd---Classical Guitar Concert by the Hartt School of Music Guitar Dept. at 3pm. Admission free, donations appreciated

Wednesday, 5th--- Chess Club at 7pm. All ages and levels of playing welcome.

Thursday, 13th --- Meriden Public Elementary Schools Art Show Opening and Reception 4pm-7pm.

Thursday, 13th through Thursday, May 20th---Meriden Public Elementary Schools Art Show. Exhibit will be open daily, call or visit website for times.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE AUGUSTA, TO DONATE TO OUR APPEAL, OR TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE ACCC VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.CURTISCULTURALCENTER.ORG

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Calling all treasure seekers!
First Baptist Rummage Sale
Friday April 23rd from 6:30-9pm
Saturday April 24th from 9am-1:30pm
Lots of great items at great prices! Bake Sale! Refreshments!
Held at the First Baptist Church -114 North Main St. Wallingford. For more information please call (203) 269-4796
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MidState Medical Center announces its annual Volunteer Open House
on Thursday, April 15, 2010. This year, MidState is adding an evening session to accommodate those unable to attend the morning open house. Times are 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. or 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the hospital�s Horwitz Conference Center, Room 1. The Volunteer Open House gives prospective volunteers the opportunity to meet and talk with MidState volunteers and Volunteer Services staff, observe volunteers in action and learn how to become a part of the exciting world of healthcare volunteers. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, please call 204-694-8275.

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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!

Annual May Breakfast

First Congregational Church, 62 Colony Street in Meriden, will be hosting its annual May Breakfast on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 from 6:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

This year will be the 106th anniversary of a much cherished tradition provided by the Women�s Fellowship of First Congregational Church to its church members and to the community. Hundreds of breakfasts are served each year.

A delicious breakfast of halved grapefruit, juices, eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes with real maple syrup, hot rolls and muffins will be served along with coffee, tea and milk. Cost: $7.00 for adults and $3.00 for children.

Also available for purchase will be May Baskets filled with candy/fudge, home baked breads, cookies and cakes, garden flowers and plants.

Tickets will be available at the door. Group reservations can be made by calling the church office Monday thru Friday 9:00 am-1:00 pm at 203-235-5704.

Come, bring a friend and enjoy a real Meriden tradition!
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Helping Hands Thrift Store
22 No. Turnpike Road Wallingford, Ct. 06492 (203) 284-0300 Store Hours: Tues.- Sat. 9a.m.- 5p.m.
SPRING SALES GOING ON THE MONTH OF APRIL!

LOTS OF NEW TAGGED STORE CLOTHING as well as slightly used clothing at very affordable prices..

Furniture, toys, baby items, glassware, jewelry, shoes, pictures are just some of the things we will be having sales on at different times during the month of April.
If you don't see something you are looking for, just ask we may have it in storage!

Don't forget every Wednesday is BAG DAY! For only $5.00 you'll receive a bag you can fill with shirts, skirts, jeans, blouses, shorts, tops, dress pants!
We also now have some prom gowns, wedding gowns and other formal wear for sale.

Every Thursday there is a "special" sale on different store merchandise such as buy 1 get 1 half off or a percentage off certain items.

Please give us a call when you are spring cleaning and have furniture or large appliances that are in GOOD, CLEAN WORKING CONDITION that you would like to donate. Scheduled pick ups in the local area can be arranged by calling the store.
We are in need of the following if anyone has any of these items you may also drop them off at the store from 9a.m.- 4p.m.. Bicycles, wagons and other outside play toys, patio furniture, bureaus, curtains, pack n play playpens, toy boxes, bookcases.

Your donations help us help victims of Domestic Violence and families in the local community as well as other local Organizations that we offer assistance to and is greatly appreciated. Please call the store if you have any questions or stop in! We are very thankful to all that have donated money, their services & their time as well as items so we can continue to help others in need. The store has just celebrated its 2 year Anniversary during this time we have been able to assist the Chrysalis Inc. for Victims of Domestic Violence, Hope Teen Pregnancy Center, families in the Community, the Red Cross, Masters Manna, Homeless Shelters and more with your help.
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MidState Auxiliary Hosts Open Meeting
With Special Guest Speaker, Author Kevin O�Hara

The MidState Medical Center Auxiliary announces its Annual Open Meeting on Tuesday, April 27th, 2010, 2 p.m., at the hospital�s MidState Medical Services building located at 61 Pomeroy Avenue in Meriden.

The Annual Open Meeting gives individuals the opportunity to learn more about the MidState Auxiliary and how they can become involved in this rewarding group. The MidState Auxiliary supports the hospital through fundraising and volunteer efforts. Attendees of the Open Meeting will also hear writer Kevin O�Hara, author of the novel Last of the Donkey Pilgrims: A Man�s Journey Through Ireland, speak about his novels and his Irish upbringing. Kevin is also a columnist for The Berkshire Eagle in Massachusetts.

Those interested in attending can RSVP to Dot Mut in Volunteer Services by calling 203-694-8275 by Monday, April 15th. Refreshments will be served at the Open Meeting .

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Training for Small Business Owners

Owners of small businesses can better manage tough times with a better understanding of finance. The Community Economic Development Fund at 965 East Main St., Meriden, has a low-cost evening course that can help.

�Understanding Business Finances to Maximize Your Profit� will be held May 24, 26 and June 2 at CEDF from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. and will be taught by John Purtill, CPA. Learn how to keep the necessary records for your small business and how to set up functional record keeping systems. The workshop will include understanding financial statements, making income projections, and different accounting methods that work best for your business. Cost is $20 for current CEDF borrowers, $35 for other Connecticut small business owners.
T
he course is limited and early registration is a must. Registration forms can be downloaded under the �Training Institute� button on the CEDF website, www.cedf.com. Payment may be sent to CEDF, 965 East Main St., Meriden, CT 06450-6006

Don't Forget and Don't Miss Out!

The 2nd Annual Durham Pet Fair will be hosted by Help Willy's Friends and the Durham Veterinarian Hospital on May 16, 2010 at its new, larger location - Coginchaug Regional High School, 135 Pickett Lane, Durham, CT. This fun, FREE and family-oriented event will feature over 45 local animal shelters, more than 50 vendors, entertainment and lots of food for you AND your pet!

At last year's Pet Fair, animal shelters from general municipal to breed-specific, brought their best and brightest animals to meet the public in the hopes of finding them loving, forever homes. Nearly every pet that attended was adopted! With so many more shelters and people expected to attend this year, we are confident that many more animals will find that same happy ending.

We are also anticipating over 50 local vendors and artisans who will be eagerly showcasing their services and products ranging from handmade jewelry, doggie bandanas and organic pet treats to pet sitting services and woodworking. Tons of freebies will be available, so don't miss out!

This family-oriented event will not just feature adoptable pets and local merchants, but will also include:
� Live music
� Wine-tasting
� Silent auction
� DJ
� Food vendors
� Children's activities such as face-painting and Touch-a-Truck
� State police K-9 Unit, Agility, DAWGS and Skyhoundz demonstrations
� Free nail-clipping
� Pet reiki
� Pet psychic

Micro-chipping (for a nominal fee) If you would like to be a part of this exciting event, advanced registration is required. Please visit our website at www.durhampetfair.com or reply to this email for more information and to request an application. Applications and fees must be received by May 1st so that we can reserve your 10'x10' exhibition space. (Note: Tents will not be the responsibility of the Durham Pet Fair.)

The 2nd Annual Durham Pet Fair is not just an opportunity for those looking to add to their pet families, it's also a FREE, fun-filled day for those who love animals, so mark it on your calendar and we look forward to seeing you there!

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MIXED EMOTIONS �
Exhibit Opens At Easel Works
Easel Works Creative Art Studio and Gallery will host a reception on Friday, April 23rd - 6pm to open the exhibit Mixed Emotions. This exhibit will offer a variety of oil painitngs done by the studio's adult artists. The public is invited to meet the artists that evening. Questions, please call Easel Works - 2 Quinnipiac Street - Wallingoford -203-294-1548

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Wallingford Adult Education- Space available!

Trip to Greenwich Village and Bleecker Street. Our visit includes an easy walking tour of the West Village where O�Henry, Mark Twain, Edgar Allan Poe and other famouswriters once lived! Delicious lunch in �Little� Italy on Mulberry Street at the famous SPQR Restaurant. Saturday, May 1, 2010.

To register please call Wallingford Adult Education at (203) 294-5932.

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You can save a life!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to save someone�s life?
The Be The Match Registry operated by the National Marrow Donor Program� (NMDP) will be at the Meriden Health Dept (167 Miller St.) on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 from Noon to 4pm in the 1st Floor Conference Room to give you the opportunity to join the Be The Match Registry.

By becoming a member of the Registry, you could be a match for a patient in critical need�maybe even the only person who could save a patient�s life.
Joining the Registry is as easy as 1-2-3 !

1. Meet the age (18-60) and health requirements and be willing to help any patient in need.
2. Complete a registration form with contact information, health history questions, and a signed agreement to join the Registry.
3. Give a swab of your cheek cells so your tissue type can be identified.

Tissue typing costs will be covered by our sponsor, Michael�s Fund of Fall River, MA.

Please feel free to contact me at (203) 639-8000 if you have any questions. We hope you will take a few minutes to attend the drive and help save a life.

More information about the program is available on www.bethematch.org.

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FREE movie night
at the Nutrition Center, located in downtown Wallingford Monday ~ May 3, 2010 ~ 7:00pm Feature: Food, Inc. - �Food, Inc. lifts the veil on our nation�s food industry, exposing how our nation�s food supply is now controlled by a handful of corporations that often put profit ahead of consumer health, the livelihood of the American farmer, and the safety of workers and our own environment. Food, Inc. reveals surprising � and often shocking truths � about what we eat, how it�s produced and who we have become as a nation.�
�It might change your life.� - O. The Oprah Magazine �Everyone should see Food, Inc.�- The Washington Post �Doing for eating what former vice president Al Gore�s An Inconvenient Truth did for global warming.� - The Kansas City Star
You�ll never look at dinner the same way again.

The Nutrition Center is located at 116 Center Street in downtown Wallingford. For questions or further information please call 203.269.2852. Space is limited so please call to reserve your seat.

FREE Walking Club

A FREE Walking Club offered by Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC and the DOC Nutrition Clinic� in Wallingford will begin on Monday, April 12 and will meet on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:00am-7:00am, rain or shine. Everyone is welcome, although those with any type of medical condition need clearance for physical activity by their primary care provider. We will gather at the Simpson Court parking lot, located in uptown Wallingford. For further information or for questions, please call the Nutrition Center at 203.269.2852

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!

Shore Line Trolley Museum opens for the 2010 season

The Shore Line Trolley Museum opens for the 2010 season on Sunday, April 4 with trolley rides and tours. Welcome Spring with a three-mile round trip through scenic woods and wetlands. Tours and exhibits are included with admission and picnic areas are available.

Streetcars run on Sundays in April, weekends in May and daily after Memorial Day. The first trolley is at 10:30 AM and cars run frequently throughout the day; 4:30 PM is the last trip and tour. Admission is Adults $8, Seniors $6, Children (2-15) $4. Group rates are available, and trolleys can be privately chartered year round.

Visit our website at www.bera.org for directions and special event schedules. Call 203-467-6927 or contact us by e-mail at trolleymuseum@verizon.net for more information. The Shore Line Trolley Museum is a National Historic District located at 17 River Street in East Haven, CT, between exits 51 (northbound) and exit 52 (southbound) on I-95.

SPRING INTO ACTION

April, 2010 � Spring is a great time of year to cleanup your yard and clean out your garage. If the cleanup includes getting rid of a car you no longer need, you will help the environment, the community and your wallet when you donate it to charity. There are many advantages to donating a car;
1. You don�t have to haggle with the car dealer over the trade in value of your car
2. You don�t have the expense of advertising your car in the paper or online
3. You won�t have strangers coming to your house to look at the car
4. You don�t have to make any repairs to your car, we take them as-is
5. You�ll get a valuable tax deduction
6. You�ll get free pickup
7. You can complete the entire donation process online at your convenience
8. You�ll support the charity of your choice

Cars4Charities will gladly handle the entire car donation process for you, have your car picked up fast and free and send the proceeds to the charity you select from their extensive list. Their list of charities includes National ones such as the American Foundation for the Blind, Prevent Cancer Foundation, American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, Autism Speaks, Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation, Diabetes Research Institute Foundation, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, National Association for Down Syndrome, Colon Cancer Prevention Foundation, Asthma & Allergy Foundation, Teach for America, Cancer Research Institute, State charities like the Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut and VNA Health Care of Connecticut, but also many local charities in the greater New Haven area like local food banks and homeless shelters, etc.

Besides helping a very needy charity, you�ll get a tax deduction of at least $500 on your itemized federal return. Cars4Charities even allows you the ability to complete the entire car donation process online at your convenience. The online option is better for the environment because it reduces the use of paper and other consumables. If your car is in poor condition, Cars4Charities will make sure it is properly recycled.

Complete details are available at http://www.cars4charities.org/ or 1-866-448-3487 (GIVE-4-US).

Wallingford Family YMCA/
Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament

The biggest and premier community tennis tournament in New England is right here in CT! The 6th annual Wallingford Family YMCA/Wint Filipek Sr. Memorial Tennis Tournament is scheduled for June 12th � 20th. The venue in 2010 will be the Cheshire Academy tennis complex.

All proceeds from the tournament will benefit Wallingford YMCA youth programs and the Winton S. Filipek Sr. scholarship fund.

All players receive a tournament t-shirt, players handbook, players gift bag, ticket to �Breakfast at Wimbledon� and tennis balls & water for every match. Prizes are awarded to 1st & 2nd place in every division.

The 9-day event in 2010 will feature: 21 divisions for all levels, a Free Kids & HS Clinic & Fun Day (at capacity in 2009), 5 high school divisions, a junior boys & girls round-robin and special events daily.

In 2009, the event drew 592 entries.

THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT!

Please direct any questions to Wint Filipek Jr. wrfilipek@hotmail.com 860-621-5655
Apply NOW @: www.ymcafilipektennis.com

Tag Sale to Benefit American Cancer Society
On Saturday April 24 at The Willows, 751 North Farms Road in Wallingford, Relay For Life team, BIG GREEN will hold a multi family tag sale with proceeds donated to the ACS. Please join BIG GREEN at the tag sale 8am � 2pm as we raise money to fight cancer.

Pizza Party to Benefit American Cancer Society
On Sunday May 2 from 11am � 2pm at Stella Pizza 11 South Colony Street in Wallingford, Relay For Life team, BIG GREEN, will sponsor a pizza party. Donation is $7.00 includes 2 large pizza slices and a soda. Tickets available at door. Proceeds from dinner and raffles will be donated to the American Cancer Society. Please join BIG GREEN as we raise money to fight cancer.

Temple Beth David and Kol Ami Sponsor Guest Speaker
On Wednesday April 28, at 7:30 p.m., Rabbi Jonathan Porath will speak at Temple Beth David of Cheshire, 3 Main Street, Cheshire on �Expanding our Jewish Horizons or How to Be More Jewish in Cheshire.� The event is sponsored by the Temple Beth David Adult Education Committee, Congregation Kol Ami, and the Department of Jewish Education of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven. The topic coincides with Temple Beth David�s adult education program Ethical Eating and will offer insight into the historical meaning of kashrut and more modern application of Jewish practices, values and mitzvoth (commandments) in today�s America.

Rabbi Porath, a Scholar-in-Residence for Greater New Haven, is a world renowned educator. An 18th generation rabbi, he has served as a Hillel rabbi and the rabbi for a congregation in Clark, NJ before moving to Israel in 1984. He was on the senior staff for the Russian Department of the American Joint Distribution Committee for fifteen years and visited Russia over 175 times. He authored the book Jews in Russia: The Last Four Centuries, a Documentary History.

The event is free and open to the public. Please join us in the social hall of the synagogue for a rewarding evening. For more information, call Linda at 203-250-1222

Strong Kids Campaign
Please join us at our Strong Kids Campaign Kick Off Reception on April 15th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Our Strong Kids Campaign is critical to helping us serve our community, and the need is greater than ever.
The Meriden YMCA:
* serves over 300 teens each week
* helps over 200 children with homework, and provides a safe,
nourishing environment in our after school programs/child care
facilities
* provides assistance to over 65% of our families in child care
* helps 30% of our campers attend Mountain Mist Day Camp
* provides Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners to over 400
people in Meriden, delivering meals to the home bound and
gave toys to children and families with no other place to go
* teaches over 250 elementary school children to swim
* provides youth services to nearly 10,000 children throughout
Meriden.
Meriden's families need help more than ever. We can't do it without your support.
John Benigni, CEO
Meriden YMCA
110 West Main Street
Meriden

Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce

As central Connecticut�s leading business organization, the Greater Meriden Chamber thanks the People�s Press for their monthly publication that allows us to share events, information, and general goings-on in the chamber and in the Greater Meriden Community. It is a great vehicle to educate the public on the work of the Greater Meriden Chamber.

I was glad to hear that the focus of the April issue is �small business�. There are SO MANY small businesses that make up the membership of the Greater Meriden Chamber � that�s right � you don�t have to be a large, multinational company to join your area chamber � in fact, the majority of our members are small to mid-size businesses. So, I was reluctant to write something, and highlight just a few and leave out others. We also must not overlook the many not-for-profit organizations in our communities that are small businesses. A complete list of members in good standing may be found 24/7/365 at www.meridenchamber.com. And, our 2010 Resource Guide has been delivered and we�ll be getting copies out throughout the community � be sure to pick one up here at the chamber or at the Daffodil Festival on April 24 � 25 � visit the chamber booth under the huge tent on the tennis courts!

They say timing is everything and I do believe that because I had the opportunity to attend a press conference on Thursday, April 1st held by Congressman Chris Murphy � at a local small business, Di-El Tool, and the focus of the event was �BUY AMERICAN�!!!

There are a number of local small businesses that currently have government contracts OR that do work for other area companies that do business with the government. The event highlighted Bill 4553 � 21st Century Buy American Act, which aims to amend the current Buy American Act with respect to certain waivers under that Act, to provide greater transparency regarding exceptions to domestic sourcing requirements, and for other purposes.

Check out more detail on Bill 4553 at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress. More simply stated, this bill that was introduced on February 2, will work to close some loopholes in the current legislation that would ultimately give more access to American businesses to win and fill contracts for the government. It may also result in grants to businesses looking to get on the list to receive government contracts.

So, whether you are looking for a service, looking to purchase something new, or have the urge to volunteer your time at a local agency, look first to your local chamber members. Those are the businesses that see value in the connection to the community that membership brings. And, surveys have indicated that consumers are more likely to buy from chamber members because they are ethical, credible businesses. These businesses voluntarily join the chamber to be a part of Networking, Education, Leadership & Networking � the main focus of the work of the chamber.

Become a FAN of Greater Meriden Chamber on Facebook! Join the over 150 Facebook Friends who are already FANS of the Greater Meriden Chamber!

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!

Sheehan Students Recognized

Sheehan seniors, Michael Kadow and Kailey Malone, were recently selected as recipients of the South Central Area Superintendents Association (SCASA) Award for 2010. This award is presented to students who embody the mission of their school and are deeply committed to community and humanitarian service. Senior Leanna Verch was also honored by SCASA. The Association presented her with the Dr. Alida Begina Memorial Scholarship. In addition, Michael Kadow and Leanna Verch were presented with the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Scholar Leader Award at a reception held on March 22. In order to qualify for this honor, a student must demonstrate academic excellence, be a leader in the community, and more importantly, serve as a model to others.

Three Mark T. Sheehan High School students were recently awarded medals for their participation at the Health Occupations Students of America State Conference at Southern Connecticut State University. Jenny Raucci was the recipient of a Silver Medal for Nursing Assistant Skills Competition. She performed Vital Signs assessment on an adult client. Mary Bemis and Scott Buehler took home Gold Medals for their participation in the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and First Aid Skills Event.

Congratulations to Olivia Navickis! She received honorable mention in Donate Life Connecticut�s annual poster art contest. The contest is designed to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. Olivia will be recognized at an awards ceremony at the State Capitol on April 1.

Friends of the Library Book Sale
Friday, April 23, 2010 through Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 10:00 AM�4:00 PM At Meriden Public Library
Description: The Friends of the Meriden Public Library will be holding a book sale. Come and stock up for your summer beach reading.
Location Info: 105 Miller St., Friends Rm., Meriden

Meriden Rotary Foundation 13th Annual Corporate Golf Tournament
Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at 10:00 AM At Hunter Memorial Golf Course

The Meriden Rotary Annual Corporate Golf Classic is the major fundraiser for the activities and projects that they fund such as DARE programs, Noah's Ark of Hope, Meriden Children First Initiative, Brian David Ash Memorial Fire Prevention Fund, Boys & Girls Club "Rotary Pavilion and Library", Girls, Inc. "Rotary Computer Center", and so much more.

Location Info: 688 Westfield Rd., Meriden

Golf registration begins at 10:00am, Lunch at 11:00am, Shotgun start at 12:00noon, Cocktail Reception at 5:00pm, and Dinner and Awards at 6:00pm. Sponsorship opportunities available. To donate auction or raffle items, contact Tari Marshall-Day Webster at 860-227-2989. For more information contact Frank Ridley, Tournament Director at 203-634-0072 or go to www.meridenrotary.org.

DAFFODIL TAG SALE
CONNECTICUT'S LARGEST!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Under the Festival Tent
Hubbard Park, West Main Street, Meriden, CT
9:00 AM to 2:00 PMrain or shine

Join friends & neighbors, get rid of that old dresser, lawn mower, Sonny's comic collection, Grandma's old Crock Pot..... you know, the stuff you "are going to use someday"...or come by to browse & buy at the area's largest tag sale...and while you're at it, take a stroll through historic Hubbard Park among the 600,001 blooming daffodils...

For only $20.00 you can rent a 10'x10' single space that includes 1 table under the Festival tent. For only $40.00 you can rent a double space 10'x20' with 2 tables. Additional tables may be rented for $10.00 each. Set-up is at 7:00AM - with all items to be removed by 3:00PM (No Exceptions)
Household Items Only
REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

The Meriden Daffodil Festival 2010!!
HUBBARD PARK
APRIL 24 & 25 2010

Meriden's Largest and most colorful festival the "Meriden Daffodil Festival" will celebrate its 32nd year during 2010. The 2010 dates have been announced for 2010. Join us on Saturday April 24 and Sunday April 25, 2010, 600,001 daffodils can't be wrong! They create a sea of fragrant yellow blossoms throughout the 1,800-acre Hubbard Park in Meriden, Connecticut each year. You'll not only see an amazing 61 different varieties of daffodils, there will also be crafts, amusement rides, food, entertainment, and a fireworks display for you to enjoy. So mark your calendar - It's going to be a great time for the whole family! For additional information please call 203-630-4259.

The Meriden Daffodil Festival began as a community event 32 years ago and has grown into one of Connecticut�s premier celebrations. With food, crafts, music, fireworks, amusements and a parade that has to be seen to be believed, the Daffodil Festival is a springtime funfest for old and young, couples and singles, families and friends.

Festival Hours

Saturday April 24, 2010
Gates open at 10:00 AM Gates close at 9:00 PM
10:00 AM Food Tent open
10:00 AM Arts & Crafts open
10:00 AM Children's rides open
11:00 AM Musical Entertainment begins
11:30 AM Parade Begins
FIREWORKS WILL BEGIN AT 8:30PM

Sunday April 25, 2010

Gates open at 10:00 AM Gates close at 5:00 PM
10:00 AM Food Tent open
10:00 AM Arts & Crafts open
10:00 AM Children's rides open
11:00 AM Musical Entertainment begins

�Daffodils on Parade�
The 23rd Annual �Daffodils on Parade� will take place on Saturday, April 24th. The parade will begin at 11:30AM and culminate at approximately 1:30PM with a brief awards ceremony in the Silver Fork Food Tent. The Meriden Daffodil Festival Committee invites the entire community to join us on this very special day!

The Daffodil Festival is entering its 32nd year as Meriden�s premier outdoor event. �Daffodils on Parade� is one of the festival�s main features, exhibiting the creative participation of the entire community. It is the city�s largest parade, and the route is consistently lined with thousands of spectators. Your presence would afford local residents the opportunity to show their appreciation for your hard work!

The theme for this year�s parade is �Sunny with a Choice of Great Food.� Please if it all possible incorporate it in your participation plans. Anything related to the many different types of edibles to be found in the Silver Fork Food Tent is encouraged! Please take the time to complete the accompanying entry form accurately so we can properly place you in the parade lineup.

Wallingford Park and Recreation Upcoming Trips
Radio City
Backstage Tour
When: Saturday April 24th
Bus Departs: Rec. Dept. at 7:30am
Returns: 7:30pm
Fee: $62 per person
Get an insiders view of Radio City Music Hall. You will explore the beautiful art-deco interiors; learn the secrets of the Great Stage - one of the largest indoor performance stages in the world. See the stage�s hydraulic system, still in operation since the1930�s. As an exciting climax to your tour, you will meet one of the world famous Radio City Rockettes! After the tour, enjoy free time in Rockefeller Center for shopping and dining.

Tenement Museum - Lower East Side
When: Saturday May 15th
Bus Departs: Rec. Dept. at 7:30am
Returns: 7:00pm
Fee: $72 per adult / $70 per child
(5 - 17 years)
**Note: This is a walking tour with some stairs**
Experience the history of the Tenement at 97 Orchard St. From the late 1800�s to the early 1920�s, immigrants poured into New York with hopes of the Great American Dream and the faith of a believer. For many, these dreams did come true. You will get a guided walking tour of the Lower East Side and hear the Jewish immigrants stories told to you by your local guide as you walk these tenement lined old streets. Highlights include; Kosar�s Bialy Bakery, Russ & Daughters famous deli, Daily Forward building and a stroll on Bargain St. The tour will then arrive at the Tenement Museum. Experience the tenement house on 97 Orchard St.

Built on Manhattan�s Lower East Side in 1863, this tenement apartment building was home to nearly 7000 working class immigrants. They faced challenges we understand today: making a new life, working for a better future and starting a family with limited means. A stop for lunch at Katz�s Deli for lunch on your own, serving its famous pastrami sandwiches since 1898.

If you would like to go on any of these trips � please call 203-294-2120 or stop by the office located at 6 Fairfield Boulevard.

MUsic Man Tickets are on SALE!
Come join us May 1st and 2nd for MYT's production of Music Man, Jr! SHows are at 2 and 7:30 both days at Thomas Edison Middle School.

Tix are on sale. ALL tix are $8.00 and you must buy a ticket for each performance you attend. Call or email MIMI to reserve your tickets today!
MIMI - mimice@webtv.net 203-235-5109

LINCOLN MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND
CAR WASH AND MOTHER�S DAY FLOWER SALE

Get mom�s car washed and buy her some beautiful flowers, too! The Lincoln Middle School band will be sponsoring a car wash and Mother�s Day Plant sale, with all proceeds benefiting the band�s activities. The Flower Sale will take place at the school on Friday, May 7th from 2:00-5:00pm and Saturday, May 8th from 8:00-3:00pm. The car wash will take place on Saturday, May 8th from 8:00-2:00pm (the rain date for the carwash will be Saturday, May 15th but the flower sale is rain or shine). Car wash tickets cost $5.00 each and tickets from the previously rained-out carwash in the fall will be honored. Support Lincoln�s band while doing something nice for mom!

Victory Parade Honoring the UConn Women�s Basketball Team Set for Sunday, April 18 in Hartford

Parade Kicks-Off at 3:00 PM; Rally to Follow at the State Capitol

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the State of Connecticut, along with the City of Hartford, will host a victory parade and rally on Sunday, April 18, to congratulate and honor the University of Connecticut�s Women�s Basketball Team for winning their seventh NCAA Women�s National Basketball Championship, second perfect season in a row and making history with their 78-game winning streak.

The Huskies defeated Stanford 53-47 to win back-to-back national championships and become the first-ever NCAA women�s basketball team to have consecutive unbeaten seasons � and in the process beating their own NCAA Division I winning record of 70 games.

The victory parade, which will begin and end at the State Capitol, will start at 3:00 p.m. on April 18 and take place near the Bushnell Park, Main Street and Capitol Avenue areas of Hartford. A celebration rally with the coaches and players will take place on the north steps of the Capitol building immediately following the parade. Parade and rally organizers are relying on private funds to support both events.

Prior to the start of the parade and rally on April 18, the USA Basketball Women's National Team, which is coached by UConn's Hall of Fame Coach Geno Auriemma and includes current and former UConn greats, is anticipated to play an exhibition scrimmage against the USA Basketball Select Team at 12:30 pm at the XL Center in downtown Hartford. The USA Basketball Women's National Team, along with elite collegiate athletes on the USA Select Team, will be training in Hartford and Storrs between April 11 and April 18. It is expected that the weeklong training will conclude with this scrimmage between the USA National Team and the USA Select Team. More information will be announced by USA Basketball at a later date.

�Words cannot accurately convey the joy and pride we have in the UConn women�s basketball team. However, action speaks louder than words and I am inviting UConn fans of all ages to join us on April 18 in showing these young women and their coaches why we love the UConn Huskies so much,� said Governor Rell. �I cannot think of a better way to cap this historic basketball season and their back-to-back national championships. As diehard fans, let�s make history ourselves by lining the parade and attending the rally in record numbers.�

�The UConn women�s basketball players are more than just national champions. They are first class student-athletes and role models for all of us. This is why when it comes to the celebration events that are being planned for April 18, the players deserve it, the coaches deserve it and the best women�s basketball fans in the country who witnessed sports history deserve it.�

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!

April 2010 Health News and Events

2010-04-12T10:45:00.002-04:00

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!

Meriden Health Department � Keeping You Healthy in April!

1. Bicycle Helmets Available

Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air and share time as a family. The Meriden Health Department wants everyone to be safe - we are selling Bell brand bicycle helmets for $7.50 each. Both adult and child sizes are available, and there are many different styles and colors to choose from. The helmets are available for purchase Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. Please call the Clinic office at 203-630-4234 if you have any questions. Be safe - always wear a helmet when riding a bike, no matter where you are or how short the ride!

2. 10,000 Steps to Better Health Presentation

As part of the spring Monday Night Refresher Series, the Meriden Health Department will be hosting a presentation to �refresh� our minds about why walking is so good for our health. The presentation will be held on April 19 from 6:00-7:00pm at the Meriden Public Library, located at 105 Miller Street. Free pedometers and walking logs will be given to all who attend. Healthy snacks will be served. This event is free and open to the public. To register, please call Lea Crown, Community Health Educator, at 203-630-4238.

3. �Know Your Numbers� Health Screenings

Do you �know your numbers�? The Meriden Health Department is now offering a comprehensive health screening for Meriden adults. The screening is only $10.00 per person (cash only, please) and includes:
� Blood glucose (sugar) testing
� Total cholesterol
� Blood pressure
� Height, weight, body mass index (BMI)
� Vision and hearing

We�ll give you a tracking card with all your results and educational materials as well. To make your appointment with one of our nurses, please call the Clinic office at 203-630-4234 today!

Got Public Health?
The benefits of public health can be seen in our day to day lives - it is because of public health we know that unclean water can carry bacteria that can cause disease; that second-hand smoke can be deadly, and that wearing a seat belt whenever we drive or ride in a car can save a life. Unlike doctors and nurses who focus on the health of individual people, public health focuses on the health of the community as a whole. Your Meriden Health Department is the local agency responsible for Meriden�s public health. We�d like to take this opportunity to tell you a little bit more about what services we offer our community.

� Our Health Clinic provides health screenings such as blood pressure, total cholesterol, and hearing and vision; gives immunizations, and tracks communicable diseases in our community.
�
� The Health Education office provides health information and education to the public; collects and manages data, coordinates health programs and much more.
�
� The Environmental Health Division licenses and regulates all establishments that prepare and serve food, respond to nuisance complaints that may be in violation of State and City codes, inspect public swimming pools and day care centers and much more.

� School Health Nursing provides complete school health services to all students enrolled in Meriden�s public and non-public schools.
�
� Our HIV/AIDS Program provides confidential education, counseling and testing. Outreach, educational materials and group programs are also available.
�
� The Women, Infant, and Children Program (WIC) provide education and healthy foods to eligible participants.

In addition to the Health Division, our Department also provides Human Service Programs such as:

� School Readiness, which provides access to quality child care services for children ages 3 and 4 in Meriden.
�
� Youth Services provides resources to youth, parents, and professionals including counseling, juvenile assistance, youth employment, crisis intervention programs, and community services opportunities.
�
� Social Work Services: provides social services to Meriden residents, including geriatric assessment and planning, financial assessment, screening for entitlement eligibility and much more.
�
� The Max E. Muravnick Senior Citizen�s Center is a hub for activities and services for older people to enhance their social, physical, emotional, and intellectual needs.
Your Meriden Health Department is committed to the protection and promotion of the physical and environmental well-being of the citizens of Meriden through direct service, wellness promotion and active support of community efforts. Comments and suggestions are always welcome. Please visit us under the Expo tent at the Meriden Daffodil Festival on Saturday, April 24 to learn more about what we provide to the community. Residents can also call 203-630-4226 or visit our website, www.meridenhealth.com.

Written by Theresa Holda, Public Health Intern, Meriden Health Department.

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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MidState Cancer Center Adds New Technology to Improve Radiation Therapy

The MidState Medical Center Cancer Center is pleased to announce the addition of a new, advanced radiation therapy system that will allow clinicians the ability to better treat and target tumors more aggressively than ever before.

The Elekta Infinity radiation therapy system incorporates a sophisticated feature, known as Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), which reduces the time it takes to administer radiotherapy treatment sessions to patients to nearly five minutes or less. Shorter treatment times mean patients are more comfortable, making it easier for them to remain still during treatment and increasing the likelihood of delivering radiation more accurately and safely.

Additionally, the new equipment features a suite of imaging tools that enable high quality, 3D imaging at the time of treatment, significantly minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The Elekta Infinity is the most advanced technology of its kind. The Cancer Center anticipates treating patients on the new system beginning in March.

Family Caregivers and Companions Should Try to Plan Weekly Outings for Homebound Elderly Senior Parents in Order To Raise Their Spirits.

Carol Carbutti, the owner of Comfort Keepers, a provider of private caregivers for in-home non-medical care, in Wallingford, CT would like to remind family caregivers and senior citizens about the benefits of going outdoors. Fresh air is so important for our aging seniors who are confined to their rooms due to lack of mobility, or any other disability. The only environment many seniors see for days on end is their room and the hallway with the nurses� station. This can be frustrating and cause healthy aging seniors to go stir crazy. Taking your elderly parents out once in a while will be good for their overall mental health and help prevent depression. With proper planning, such trips or outings can be fun and a welcome change from their mundane lives. In a case where the senior is recovering from an illness, there is no better therapy than a breath of fresh air!

An outdoor trip for the elderly entails a lot of detailed planning before the actual outing. These cannot be undertaken spontaneously, as there are many factors to be considered. You need to first go over the activity for its suitability to the elders' condition of physical health. For instance, a retired senior who is confined to a wheelchair cannot go swimming. Instead, a family caregiver or a private companion can arrange to take them out for a ride to a nearby park. Everyone will enjoy spending some time outdoors with nature.

Planning a day trip of shopping or catching a show at your local town green are two good outdoor activities for the at home senior in your care. These activities will give the elders a sense of freedom and contentment. It will ease the boredom and monotony of the routine life they lead. However, you as the caregiver should first make sure that the place you plan to take your senior parent can accommodate them. You need to find out if the mall has wheelchair access. Does this shopping center have convenient handicap parking? Are the restrooms easily accessible? Caregivers and companions need to research where they are going and call to ask any necessary questions to keep the senior client safe.

Before you and your elderly parent leave the house, take time to prepare for any situation. Carry all the medications that may be required. Caregivers should always pack a few snacks and water when you know you will be gone for the day. Family companions should check the weather the night before the trip to ensure aging parents are dressed in appropriate clothing for the outing. There are many such checklists you must verify before you venture out of the house with the elder in your care.

An outing for the elderly in your care may not exactly be a cakewalk for you! Caregivers and homecare professionals have to be constantly on the lookout to avoid potential mishaps or accidents. However, it is worth the effort for the pleasure it gives the retired senior citizen. There is no greater feeling than seeing the person you care for smile, when they have little left in life to smile about.

Coffee and Conversation

Join us for Coffee and Conversation on Monday, April 26 from 1:00-2:00pm in the first floor conference room at the Meriden Senior Center. This month�s program will feature Marianne Murray Urbanski, DMD, MscD, whose topic of discussion will be �Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life�.. She will discuss how the power of our thoughts can help us achieve total health and wellness.
This event is free and open to the public. Coffee and Conversation programs are jointly sponsored by the Center for Successful Aging and MidState�s LaPlanche Clinic, and are held once a month at the Senior Center. Call 203-630-4222 to RSVP or for more information.

�Spring into Fitness�

Written for the Wallingford Health Dept by our intern, Michelle Depeiza, Southern CT State University, Public health Program.

As we enter into spring, the anticipation should not only be focus on the healthy blossoms and chirping birds but also on a healthy tomorrow, let�s �Spring into Fitness�. �Spring into Fitness� means healthier lifestyles, foods and fitness to generate healthier families as we glide our way into 2010 and beyond. Fitness comes in different forms and activities and does not necessarily require a trip to the gym multiple times a week. Fitness can take place while performing a number of activities such as gardening, watering the plants, walking the dogs, daily chores around the house or anything that involves regular physical activities in additional to regular visits to the neighborhood gym.

Obesity, now in the frontline of health concerns has even the first lady Michelle Obama taking a step back to reassess factors contributing to obesity. According to Michelle Obama �We know that solving our obesity challenge won�t be easy and it won�t be quick, but make no mistake about it - this problem can be solved�. The first lady Michelle Obama has a mission to ensure all of today�s children remains tomorrow�s future by providing the key elements of healthy meals and most importantly exercise. Mrs. Obama continued to state the �Childhood obesity rates in the United States have tripled over the past three decades, and today, nearly one in three children in America are overweight or obese�.

Springing into fitness can provide you with an opportunity to live a healthier life and the drive to go that extra mile that was once consider problematic. Exercise not only allows you to lose the pounds and �love handles� but exercise makes you feel better, look better thus boosting your self-esteems. Individual health is also increased dramatically; increasing good cholesterol (HDL), healthier hearts, circulatory and other major systems in the body tends to function much better. Common diseases and illness can also be controlled or reduces such as obesity, heart disease, type II diabetes, high blood pressure and osteoporosis. Enjoy a healthy life and the longevity by simply exercising and keeping active.

Why not, just �Spring into fitness� it�s that simple and take ownership of your tomorrow.

A Healthier America: One Community at a Time

The title of the article is actually this year�s theme for National Public Health Week. What is Public Health? The mission statement of Center for Disease Control (CDC) defines the role of Public Health as: �To promote health and quality of life by preventing and controlling disease, injury, and disability.� In other words, Public Health is physical, social and mental well being and not merely the absence of disease.

�A Healthier America: One Community at a Time.� Imagine other countries looking to the U.S. as a model of health. A place where everyone has access to health care and services, where we�re celebrated for embracing healthy lifestyles, and our communities and neighborhoods make it easy for us to make healthy choices. We can make a difference.

If every one of us commits to promoting good health in our communities, we can create a ripple effect from coast to coast. Through just one neighborhood that makes its public parks accessible, one municipality that launches a bike-helmet safety program, one group of people who join together to bring fresh foods to school, or one health center that offers a vaccination program, we can create a collage of public health successes across the country.

Block by block, let�s find these small changes and make them today in our communities. The only way to become a healthier nation is to create healthier communities. This year�s National theme also shadows the national �Pioneering Healthier Communities� initiatives by the Robert Wood Johnson and YMCA. What can you do? As a parent you can begin by modeling a healthy lifestyle; walk versus drive to the corner store and make healthy food choices. Support local and national policy changes that impact your health. For more information go to Public Health website at http://www.nphw.org

Submitted Eloise Hazelwood, Wallingford Health Dept. excerpt from the National Public Health Week website.

The Wallingford Health & Fitness Fair

The event will be April 27th at Sheehan High School in Wallingford from 6-8:30 pm.

The fair is run every other year (on the even years). The fair started back in 1996. It was started by the elementary Physical Education/Health Teachers. We wanted a way to bring the community and school system together on a project regarding health and fitness topics. The fair has always been held at Sheehan and has drawn anywhere from 500 to 1500 attendees. Eventually the fair started attracting the attention of the middle and high school PE/Health teachers so they joined up for the last few fairs.

We have always had about 50 interactive booths that are run by all types of organizations. Some booths are run by students, some by student organizations like the girl scouts, some by parents (PTOs), and most by fitness/health organizations. There are list of organizations that are joining us this year on the flier I attached. The booths have all kinds of topics. Examples include: fire safety, water safety, karate, hand washing, blood pressure screening, scoliosis screening, body composition, nutritional snacks, skin cancer, healthy hearts, outdoor activities, sport teams, the importance of hydration, lots of exercise techniques and a plethora of others.

The fair is free to all and has something for every age. It is completely run by volunteers so there is no expenses to the school budget. There is no charge to have a booth at the fair�you just have to have a health/fitness theme with some interaction for the public.

There are also presentations put on by each of the 12 schools in town. Some examples of this year�s presentations include: spinning (bikes), circus skills, Trikkes (scooters), Maze Master, Floating Cube, Country Line Dancing, and many more. The presentations are all things that students do in their physical education classes. This is an opportunity for students to show off their skills to their parents. It is also an opportunity to show the public that PE classes are quite different from when they were younger.

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!

Local News and Events April 2010

2010-04-12T10:40:00.001-04:00

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 Public Library � Children�s Activities

Springtime Stories

Join us in a storytime soon! Wallingford Public Library Storytimes do not require any registration and are for children and adults to enjoy together. The programs are interactive, and filled with a variety of stories, songs, music, fingerplays , and movement, and each is developmentally appropriate for the ages described. Interested siblings are always welcome.

Preschool Stories

For children ages three to five
Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. [no program April 20]
Wednesdays, 1:30 p.m.
Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.

Musical Mother Goose*
For children ages one and two
Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.
Community Room
*This program is limited to 60 people; Wallingford residents are given priority. Please bring proof of residency. Non-residents are most welcome to attend if there is room.

The Waddling Ones*
For children ages 12-24 months
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.
Collins Room
*This program is limited to 20 children and their caregivers; Wallingford residents and Itty Bitty graduates are given priority. Please bring proof of residency. Non-residents are most welcome to attend if there is room.

Itty Bitty Babies
For children ages 12 months and under
Thursdays, 1:30 p.m.
Children�s Program Room

Me Gustan los Libros!
Monday April 26, 6:30 p.m.
Children�s Program Room
Join Maria Ruiz for stories and more with a bilingual twist!
Stories and activities for children ages 3-8 and their caregivers, are shared in English and Spanish.

Family Game Night Unplugged
Friday, April 16, 7:00 p.m.
Children�s Library
New studies show that kids are spending too many hours per day in front of screens!
Gather your family and friends in the Children�s Library and we�ll have loads of new board games for you to enjoy together. Board games provide opportunities for kids to learn all sorts of valuable skills in a fun-filled way.
So join us for counting, reading, logic, strategy, conversation, giggles and more!

Meriden Public Library April Vacation Week Programs

MERIDEN-SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY DURING SPRING VACATION WEEK

In Celebration of National Library Week and Spring Vacation Week, Meriden Public Library will be presenting children's programs for all ages.

On Tuesday April 13th at 10:30 AM. Come party, dance, and sing along with "Harry Gambardella". Harry brings his own party and you will sure to have a great time!

On Wednesday April 14 at 11:00 AM. Watch in amazement, smile and laugh along with Meriden's own "Willy The Clown".

Tickets will be available on April 1st.

Stop by the Children's Library to pick up your tickets or call us for more information at(203) 630-6347.

MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY APRIL EVENTS

U.S. CENSUS AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

The Meriden Public Library is an authorized census questionnaire assistance center for help with the U.S. Census forms. The Census Department will be at the library on a daily basis from Friday, March 19 to Monday, April 19 to assist people with questions about the forms, exchanging forms for the correct language, and helping people fill out the forms. The following is a schedule of times the Census Department will be in the Seminar Room of Meriden Public Library:
Monday and Wednesday � 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday � 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Saturday 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

FREE COMPUTER CLASSES IN APRIL

Meriden Public Library will be offering the following free computer classes on Saturdays from 9:30 to 10:15 AM in the public computer lab.
Email Class - April 24
Microsoft Word � April 17

Class size is limited. Contact the library at (203) 238-2346 or (203) 630-6349 to register for any class.

WRITERS NETWORK MEETS APRIL 28

The Writers Network will meet at Meriden Public Library on Tuesday, April 8 and on Wednesday, April 28 at 7:00 pm in the Friends Room. Anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter is welcome to attend. The Writers Network is for anyone who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about any library program.

TEEN BOOK CLUB �BOOK VOYAGERS� APRIL 13

The Book Voyagers, a teen book club, will be meeting on Tuesday, April 13 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library. This month�s novel is called �Accidental Love� by Gary Soto. It is a classic story in which boy meets girl (accidental), girl falls for boy (love), but they are from two different neighborhoods and two different worlds. The odds of them making it are slim to none in this well-crafted story of young love. Pizza and soda will be provided. Copies of the book are available in the Teen Center. Sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org or call (203) 238-2347.

THURSDAY LUNCH TIME BOOK CLUB AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

Meriden Public Library�s lunch time book club continues on Thursday, April 15 at noon in the Seminar Room. Bring your bag lunch and enjoy some great discussions. All are welcome. The book that will be discussed in April is The Sari Shop Widow by Shobhan Bantwal. Copies are available at the Meriden Library.

The schedule for the next few months will be as follows:
May 13 � The Reader by Bernard Schlink
June 10 � Lit: a memoir by Mary Karr

Contact the Community Services at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to join the book club.

MOVIES AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

Come to the free movies at Meriden Public Library�s Griffin Room on Saturday, April 17 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room to view the newly released version of the story of the Frog Prince. On Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30 pm, this movie follows the life of a football player who goes to live with a well-to-do family and help him reach his full potential. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about the movies.

SCRABBLE AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

The Meriden Public Library will be holding Scrabble sessions on April 26 at 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room. Come to practice or learn the game. Everyone is invited.. If you have any questions about this or other programs at the library, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email us at comsvc@hotmail.com or stop by at any session.

TEEN ANIME CLUB APRIL 23

The Teen Anime Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Friday, April 23rd at 3:00 pm. We will be watching a mecha anime filled with action, humor and signature moves. Simon, Kamina and the rest of their village are forced to live underground until an earthquake and a machine change their lives. This program is for teens ages 13-18. Snacks will be provided. Sign up through our website at www.meridenlibrary.org or at the Information Desk. If you have any questions please call Melissa at (203) 238-2346.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE APRIL 23 AND APRIL 24

The Friends of the Meriden Public Library will be holding a book sale in the Friends Room of the Meriden Public Library on Friday, April 23 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday, April 24 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Come and stock up for your summer beach reading.

BOOKMOBILE AT THE DAFFODIL FESTIVAL

The Meriden Public Library Bookmobile will be at the Daffodil Festival on Saturday, April 24 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and on Sunday, April 25 from noon to 4:30 pm. Stop by to pick up the monthly calendar and sign up for our online newsletter.

SCRAPBOOKING ON A SHOESTRING APRIL 26

Have you ever wanted to scrapbook but felt you couldn�t afford it? Well, now you can! Com to Meriden Public Library�s Friends Room on Monday, April 26 from 5:15 to 8:00 pm and use our tools. This month�s demonstration will show how you can take one piece of paper and make 8 pages for your scrapbook. You will have access to a die cut machine, decorative scissors, paper cutter, corner rounder, and stencils. Bring your photos, pages, an adhesive, and pens. Free handouts will be available.

Registration is requested and free paper will be provided for those who pre-register by calling the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org under �Adult events.�

ONCE BANNED, NOW CLASSIC BOOK DISCUSSION SERIES AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

Meriden Public Library and the Connecticut Humanities Council�s discussion series �Once banned, now classic� with moderator Marsha Bansavage will finish on Tuesday, April 27 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room. The final book to be featured is �The Awakening� by Kate Chopin. Copies of �The Awakening� are available at the Library. The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to sign up for participation in the book discussion series.

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM APRIL 28

Dr. David DeRosa, a practicing chiropractor from Wallingford, will present a program on weight loss on Wednesday, April 28 at 1:00 pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library. You will learn why diets don�t work, new solutions to accelerated weight-loss, five secrets to permanent weight loss as well as ways to increase your energy, have better health and more self esteem.

The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on �Adult events� to reserve a seat.

NEW DATABASES AT MERIDEN LIBRARY

The Meriden Public Library is pleased to announce the availability of the following databases accessible through the library�s website:

AtoZMapsOnline.com is the world�s largest subscription-based database of proprietary, royalty-free world, continent, country, and state maps. Included in the 4,000+ maps are: political maps, physical maps, outline maps, population maps, precipitation maps, climate maps, and other thematic maps. New maps are added to the collection every month.

The Global Road Warrior Library Edition, a database covering 175 countries, is the most comprehensive business travel, telecommunications and business culture reference available in the world.

Newsbank America�s Newspapers which give you access to the complete electronic editions to search more than 1,000 full-text newspapers nationwide, including the Record-Journal and America�s GenealogyBank which gives you access to historical newspapers, books, documents and obituaries to help you trace your family history. This is a trial subscription only available to April 30. Contact the Information Desk at (203) 238-2346 if you have questions about these databases.

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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April Vacation at the Wallingford Public Library

There are always lots of things to look forward to during April Vacation and here are a few more.

It�s Water Olympics! presented by the Kellogg Environmental Center
Wednesday, April 21, 10:00 a.m.
Community Room

The Kellogg Environmental Center will combine games, water, and kids in this special exploratory science program. Kids will learn about the different ways in which water reacts as they explore water in new ways.
C
hildren ages 8 and up may sign up for this program starting Thursday, April 7.

Bob Crelin and Faces of the Moon
Wednesday, April 21, 7:00 p.m.
Community Room

Ever wonder about the night sky and why the moon changes the way it does? Come find out at a special program featuring author Bob Crelin. Bob will discuss his new book, Faces of the Moon, and tell us lots more about the night sky. Weather permitting we may even have a chance to see some stars through his telescope. Bob will have copies of his book for sale and autograph them following the program for those interested.

This program is free and open to all grades K and up.

Let�s Get Cookin� with Kashia Cave
Friday, April 23, 10:00 a.m.
Community Room

Yum! Join us as we welcome Kashia Cave, of My City Kitchen in Meriden, who will do a cooking demo on healthy eating for children ages 6-12. Come and see what tasty, healthy treats are being dished up at the Wallingford Public Library. Wallingford students may register for this program starting April 7.

A Special Celebration
El d�a de los ni�os/El d�a de los libros
Friday, April 30, 7:00 p.m.
Community Room

Come celebrate El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros with Maria Ruiz and special guests during this celebration that emphasizes the importance of literacy for children of all linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
There will be lots of activities and a special appearance by Skippyjon Jones!
This program is free and open to all.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AT WALLINGORD PUBLIC LIBRARY: All of our programs are free, all of the time!

Saturday Mornings with Poetry (regular meeting)
Saturday, April 24
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Board Room
All are welcome to read original poems and share their writing experiences with fellow poets. Teen and adult poets and poetry lovers are invited.

National Poem in Your Pocket Day
Thursday, April 29
Take a day for poetry this April and join the Academy of American Poets in celebrating the third national Poem in Your Pocket Day during National Poetry Month. The idea is simple: select a poem, pocket it, carry it, and share it with family, friends, and coworkers throughout the day. Look for our poetry display opposite the Information Desk.

The Theater of the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s
Wednesday, April 14
7: 00 p.m. Community Room
The Thirties through the Fifties represent a great period of American theatrical history. Dramatist Eugene O�Neill won both the Pulitzer and Nobel Prizes during a career that spanned from the teens of the 1900s to the 1940s. The influence of, and reaction to, the Great Depression is evident in the work of William Saroyan. The Forties saw the emergence of two great playwrights who would next dominate the American theater: Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller. The 1950s saw many of these plays, including Mary Chase�s Harvey featuring James Stewart as Elwood P. Dowd, brought to the screen and enjoy a wider American audience. Treat yourself to an evening of theater with actor Stephen Collins as he performs a variety of monologues from some of America�s best loved plays.

Thursday Night Book Club: Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
Thursday, April 29
7:00 p.m. Collins Room
This popular nonfiction of �murder, magic, and madness at the fair that changed America,� recounts Chicago as it readies for the World�s Columbian Exposition of 1893. Larson tells the story of two men: the brilliant architect behind the fair and the cunning serial killer who used the fair to lure his victims to their death. Combining meticulous research with nail-biting storytelling, the author gives readers a wonderful sense of history with the thrills of fiction. Please join us for an informal discussion. All are welcome for conversation, refreshment, and reader fellowship! A limited number of copies of the book are available from the Information Desk and from our library catalog.

The Play�s the Thing: A Discussion Series
A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
Thursday, April 29
3:30 p.m. Collins Room
Here are some of the most memorable characters in American literature! Blanche DuBois is a troubled southern beauty who is drowning in her problems and loses her last chance at happiness. Stanley Kowalski, her crude and often cruel brother-in-law, precipitates her final tragedy. This discussion of Tennessee Willa�s Pulitzer Prize-winning play is part of a 3-part discussion of plays co-sponsored by the Connecticut Humanities Council. Copies of the plays are available in limited quantities from the Information Desk. Series continues as follows: May 27: Love Letters by A. R. Gurney; June 24: Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward.

ASPIRING NOVELISTS: SAVE THE DATE!
Creative Writing Workshop: Taking the Labor Out of Writing a Novel
Saturday, May 1
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Collins Room
Eileen Albrizio returns to the library to host a writing workshop for aspiring novelists. Beginning with the inception of your idea and moving on to drafting a plot sentence, developing an intimate relationship with your main characters, drafting an ending to your story, blocking out your chapters and finally, writing that all important first line of the first chapter of your novel; this is truly a hands-on workshop. All are welcome however seating is limited!

COMPUTER CLASSES
Introduction to PowerPoint 2007
Wednesday, April 28
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Board Room

Introduction to Word 2007
Thursday, April 29
10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Board Room

Each class is limited to 6 students. Please sign up early by contacting the library.

Computer Tutoring Sessions
Tuesday and Thursday afternoons: 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Thursday evenings: 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard or mouse skills, word processing, Internet searching, online job applications, or e-mail. Schedule a session in advance by calling the library.

FREE MOVIE SCREENINGS AT THE WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
All movies screened in Community Room

Friday April 16th at 6:30 p.m.
Friday Night Flicks presents Fantastic Mr. Fox
The visually ravishing animated movie The Fantastic Mr. Fox follows a fox, voiced by George Clooney and dressed in a natty brown corduroy suit, as he cheerfully and recklessly takes his thieving ways a little too far and brings down the wrath of some sour-faced poultry farmers on his family and friends. Based on the fabulous book by children's author Roald Dahl (who wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach), every corner of the screen crackles with visual invention and whimsical humor. The top-notch vocal cast create vivid personalities that perfectly mesh with the movie's lush colors and luscious textures. Fantastic Mr. Fox is an off-beat gem, a giddy mix of adult emotional issues, wild animal behavior, and childlike delight. Rated: PG
Friday April 23rd at 6:30 p.m.

Friday Night Flicks presents Sherlock Holmes
A brawny, visually arresting period adventure. Robert Downey Jr. is an intriguing choice for the Great Detective, and his trademark bristling energy and off-kilter humor do much to sell this reinvented notion of Holmes. Jude Law is equally well-equipped as a more active Dr. Watson, and together, they make for an engaging team. Downey and Law's amped-up Holmes and Watson are built for the challenge of riding this roller coaster with the audience. Rated: PG-13

Friday April 30th at 6:30 p.m.
Friday Night Flicks presents It�s Complicated
Jane (Meryl Streep) is the mother of three grown kids, owns a thriving Santa Barbara bakery/restaurant and has�after a decade of divorce�an amicable relationship with her ex-husband, attorney Jake (Alec Baldwin.) But when Jane and Jake find themselves out of town for their son�s college graduation, things start to get complicated. An innocent meal together turns into the unimaginable�an affair. With Jake remarried to the much younger Agnes, Jane is now, of all things, the other woman. Caught in the middle of their renewed romance is Adam, an architect hired to remodel Jane's kitchen. Healing from a divorce of his own, Adam starts to fall for Jane, but soon realizes he's become part of a love triangle. Should Jane and Jake move on with their lives, or is love truly lovelier the second time around? It's... complicated. Rated: R

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY TEEN ZONE
Live Turtle Show (school vacation program)
Thursday, April 22nd
11:00-12:00
Community Room
Come and celebrate Earth day with nature at the library! Wallingford proudly welcomes a multi-media live animal show which will explore several different types of turtles from around the world. Participants will have up close meetings with these fascinating creatures. This program was made possible by Wallingford Youth and Social Services and the E.C Stevens Elementary School PTO. Open to all ages.

Wii Pizza Party (school vacation program)
Monday, April 19th
1:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.
Community Room
We had so much fun over February vacation, we are doing it again! Come and play Wii games, chow on some pizza, and meet new friends! We will play a variety of games chosen by you.

Photo Tweaking Contest
There is still time to enter the photo tweaking contest for your shot at winning a new Kodak digital camera. Select one photo of your choice and alter it as you wish using the free online software picnic (www.picnik.com). E-mail the original as well as the altered photo to Teen Librarian Jennifer Nash at jnash@lioninc.org by 5pm on Friday, April 9th. Please do not hesitate to ask the folks at the Information Desk if you need assistance.

Celebrate National Space Day at the Wallingford Public Library
Thursday, April 29th
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Community Room
Wallingford�s Annual Space Day Celebration presents �NASA Comes to Wallingford: An Out of This World Experience.� The special guest of the evening will be Kerri Cahoy, Space Scientist at the NASA Ames Research Center. Come and enjoy a fun, free, educational evening as we hear about NASA�s current and future space exploration missions. This program is sponsored by the Wallingford Public Library, Town of Wallingford Youth & Social Services Department, and the E.C. Stevens School PTO. Please contact the Library at (203)265-6754 for more information. All are welcome to attend.

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!

The March 2010 issue of The People's Press is now on-line!

2010-03-09T11:57:00.005-05:00

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Your Stories March 2010

2010-03-09T11:26:00.003-05:00

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 Resident Begins Peace Corps Service in Jamaica

Pamela VanderWeele, 63, of Wallingford, Conn., has been accepted into the Peace Corps.

VanderWeele will be departing for Jamaica on March 17 to begin pre-service training as a Youth as Promise Peace Corps volunteer. Upon graduation from volunteer training in June, VanderWeele will be working with the Jamaican Ministry of Education to support rural schools.

VanderWeele is the daughter of Allan and Lee Reynolds, and a graduate of Alexander Ramsey High School in Roseville, Minn. She then attended Hope College in Holland, Mich., where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology, graduating in 1968. VanderWeele previously worked at the Wallingford YMCA as the aquatic director.

�I have always wanted to join the Peace Corps since it was created in the 1960�s. The Peace Corps mission to share expertise while living with families in the host country is what attracted me,� VanderWeele said of her decision to join the Peace Corps.

During the first three months of her service, VanderWeele will live with a host family in Jamaica to become fully immersed in the country�s language and culture. After acquiring the language and cultural skills necessary to assist her community, VanderWeele will serve for two years in Jamaica, living in a manner similar to people in her host country.

VanderWeele joins the 108 Connecticut residents currently serving in the Peace Corps. More than 3,003 Connecticut residents have served in the Peace Corps since 1961.

Over 3,600 Peace Corps Volunteers have served in Jamaica since the program was established in 1962. Volunteers in this Caribbean nation work in the areas of education, youth and community development, environmental and agricultural conservation, health and HIV/AIDS awareness, water sanitation and hygiene promotion, and business development. Many Volunteers working on HIV/AIDS prevention and care receive support from the U.S. President�s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program. Jamaica is a pilot program for the Peace Corps 50+ initiative, an agency-wide effort to recruit older Americans to serve in the Peace Corps. Currently, 86 Volunteers are serving in Jamaica.

Today, 7,876 Americans serve in the Peace Corps. Of that total, 5.4 percent of currently serving volunteers are aged 50 or older. The Peace Corps regards older volunteers as a great asset, bringing both their professional and life experiences to help countries around the world meet their development needs. Volunteers over age 50 are currently serving in 58 of the 76 Peace Corps countries.

As the Peace Corps approaches its 50th anniversary, its service legacy continues to promote peace and friendship around the world. Historically, over 195,000 volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries in which they have served. Currently, 7,876 Peace Corps volunteers are serving in 76 countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment. To learn more about the Peace Corps, please visit our website: www.peacecorps.gov.

CALLA LILIES
Dorothy Gonick
The calla lily, or zantedeschia, is a native of South Africa that has been enjoyed for centuries and gives pleasure worldwide today. The unique form of this elegant flowering plant adds to its beauty. Florists favor calla lilies in floral arrangements and many brides choose these exquisite blooms for their bridal bouquets.

The calla lily is a hardy plant that grows from bulbous roots into a plant with very large leaves shaped like arrowheads, and a rather thick stem. Atop this stem a bud will unfurl its single leafy sheath, called a spathe, into a trumpet shaped bloom that is usually white. Some varieties bloom in other lovely colors. Sheltered within the spathe is a yellow, fleshy club-like spike called a spadix that is covered with minute flowers that will produce seeds. The plant contains poisonous oxalic acid that we must be aware of.

The calla lily is a hardy plant that will grow in most soils of a humid climate. The bulbs spread by producing many more bulbs which can be dug up and replanted in another location. In many countries where the calla lily is a native, the farmers consider it a weed and vigorously destroy the plants to create farmland for crops. Sacrificing beauty for livelihood.

This brings to mind the many swaths of land we have sacrificed in order to build cities and commercial developments to enrich our lives.

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Oh, Go Fly A Kite
~ george arndt ~

The winds of March were a blessing for those of us who enjoyed the thrill of sending that ten-cent kite flying high into the blue. When my two sons were just knee high to a grasshopper, I would take them kite flying. Part of the fun was assembling the kite�somehow I always managed to get the two thin pieces of wood inserted into the designated spots without snapping them in two. Ahhhh, and then came the tail�it had to be made with just the right cut of cloth. The length was optional, but it had to be just one and a half inches wide. Then came the short pieces of material for the ribbons�one had to have the skill to determine the spacing along the length of the tail for those specially designed cross ribbons.

With finished projects in hand and balls of string�off we headed to that wide open field with no trees to worry about. It took a bit of running to get that amazing thing called a kite, into the air. And, with the proper maneuvering by my little boys, those diamond-shaped pieces of paper soared like eagles. Now and then I would have to intervene to keep the kites on course. Oh, but as sometimes would happen, the wind would not cooperate, and I would hand the end of the string off to my son, and say�
�Here, Dougie, now you hold the string and run as hard as you can.�

Oh, but such sorrow should befall my poor little boy�the wind was dying and the kite was fluttering and soon, there it was�stuck in that far off tree�the same one that good ol� Charlie Brown always gets his kite entangled in.

And so, the venture ended in tones of blues and grays for my youngest son�he was only five years old. As we drove back home, he sat in the back seat pouting and blubbering about how his kite got stuck in a tree��..it was so sad hearing his pitiful words of disappointment. As we were driving along, the sad tears became tears of laughter as we talked and joked about how that nasty old tree ate his favored kite.
So, the next time someone tells you to go fly a kite�be a sport, and do just that�literally.
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Connecticut Outdoors
Written By: Paul Narducci

As we head into the month of march it is time start thinking about open water. It has truly been a long winter and I am ready to start fishing. For those of you who don�t know, I do not ice fish. To be very honest with you, I�m afraid of water. What? Yes, this is true. The fear of falling in will keep me off the ice forever. I am not a good swimmer at all and do not enjoy being in the water but love being on the water. It is time to start getting all your equipment ready. The first thing is to clean your rods and reels. You should replace all your old line with new. I like to use Ardent�s reel cleaner kit and butter grease. This will make sure your reels are in the best shape and will be protected through out the year. I will also take care of my St Croix rod handles by using windex on the cork which will make them look brand new. I spray this on a paper towel and rub into the cork itself. Always replace all your old line with new and I recommend trying Silver Thread fishing line. The next area to attack is your tackle box. I like to sharpen all my hooks on my lures even if I didn�t use them. If there are any rusty hooks now is the time to replace them. I will also take a good look at what I used and what I didn�t with the idea of making room for the new lures for 2010. Most companies already have come out with their new lines of lures .I love trying new lures because the fish haven�t seen them yet and something different always excites me. I love using my go to baits but I truly believe something new to a fish will also excite them. With my rods, reels and tackle box done I�m ready to fish.

Well not exactly? I forgot I have to get my fishing license, how much? Well, I�m not even going to get started on the increase and lack of care our state launches receive because this article is going to be a positive one. The other thing I�m going to discuss is your boat. If you own a boat hopefully you have been taking care of your batteries over the winter months. If you haven�t and they are old it may be wise to replace them. I have found that fooling around with cheap inexpensive batteries may not always be the smart way to go. I would recommend buying Optima Batteries and take any worries out of your mind. These batteries are top of the line and will keep you on the water. Some things you may be able to cut corners on but batteries shouldn�t be one of them. There is nothing worse than being on the water and your batteries don�t work. With hopefully the last month of winter on us it is a great time to take care of these basic things. It is important to take care of these things today so you don�t regret it tomorrow.

For those of you who enjoy boating be sure you check and replace if needed your life jackets. It is very important that you wear them . With the life jackets that are on the market there is no excuses for anyone. Every year I hear and read about people who don�t wear them and it completely baffles me why they don�t. I use a Sospender life jacket that cost $200.00 because I do not want to die. You can also get the same type of life jacket for under $100.00. It is well worth the money don�t you think! I hope everyone one is excited for the 2010 fishing season and take time today to have a great fishing trip tomorrow. We will also be airing a new show of Connecticut Outdoors sometime in March and running through April. As always the Team Of Connecticut Outdoors would like to wish everyone the best of luck and good fishing.
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JURY DUTY�
��an observation
by Ernie Larsen

I�ve noticed in the past few years that nothing strikes fear in the hearts of able bodied men and women more than a letter from the Jury Commission.

Well, something from the IRS would certainly trump a letter about jury duty, I�m sure � but jury duty seems to be a task people could do without. I�m sure there are a bunch of comparisons I could make � but while I�m writing this the curling team from Canada is soundly beating Norway in the gold medal match. Anyway, the call to serve as a juror seems to raise the angst of everyday folks to a level that instills an attitude of utter negativity and creates a mind-set that conjures up some very creative excuses that make �my dog ate my homework� seem primeval. I wondered why � I myself have answered the call and served my civic duty four times since 1972; just figuring it was something you were obligated to do. Never gave it a second thought when I was younger, the first time I served it was before the era of the one day, one trial scenario. Back then, jury duty was a 30 day obligation and I don�t recall many people trying to avoid their responsibility; however now, people seem less inclined to serve and try anything and everything to get out of even showing up to be available for the process. Seeing the lawmakers of CT had the wherewithal to institute a one day � one jury policy back in the 70�s or thereabouts � you really do not have to serve longer than that, well that is if you are not chosen to proceed on a case. Which I was back in �72 � as I recall, I was picked to be on 3 or 4 cases, none which went all the way where the jury had to decide. Familiar with the term �plea bargain� that was our fate, hearing all the testimony and then the two sides decide out of court � never telling us who got what, etc. And so it went.

My other jury experiences were of the one day variety � one in New Haven where I just waited all day � not called for a jury and the other in Meriden, another day making sure the chair in which I was ensconced didn�t go anywhere. Then there was another stint in Meriden when I was chosen for a voir dire that is questioning by both attorneys to decide if they wanted you on the jury for the individual they were either defending or prosecuting. This time I was so lucky - upon entering the courtroom I noticed that both attorneys were acquaintances of mine; no chance for me being chosen to serve and voila, I was excused; the downside I had to wait around until 4:00 PM, why � who knows.

My next summons was this past December, just before Christmas. I�ll give the jury commission one thing, they do give ample notice for those who are selected to serve. My reporting date was two months later in February. I was a bit apprehensive as the jury for one of the defendants in the Pettit case from Cheshire was being chosen in the court house where I had to report. So I started to do a bit of research and found out I was acquainted with a couple of the police officers from Cheshire from my freelance photographer days. Then I read the book about the case and found out one of the people who worked in the bank where the defendants forced Mrs. Pettit withdraw money was an acquaintance � I served in the Army with her brother and knew her from my high school days. And I have followed the case and really have made up my mind on the guilt of the two individuals. I figured I would not be chosen; then the defendant took sick and jury selection was suspended, whew! Well, back to the notice - you can plead your case for being dismissed from the jury pool; a medical condition is one of the choices or you can ask for a postponement to a later date. I decided to bite the bullet and filled out the questionnaire and awaited my fate. A week and a half before my designated appearance date I received a Juror Handbook, another questionnaire and directions to the Court and areas where jurors were afforded free parking. I have to say they were not that clear in pinpointing the free lots (I believe this may be one of the major reasons people don�t want to serve, lack of CONVENIENT and free parking) I know this was on my list of negatives for this summons. But, most importantly the mailing contained the phone number for the pre-recorded notice listing those who do not have to report on the designated day. You are instructed to all this number the evening before your service date and it was sort of like having the LOTTO numbers read to you � and if you�re anything like me you weren�t a winner. So, on a cold, bleak snow threatening Friday in February I was to report to the Superior Court at 235 Church Street in New Haven @8:00 A.M.

The courthouse is easy enough to reach from Meriden, jump on I-91 south and follow the instructions on your notification from the court. Plenty of parking areas (paid) in the vicinity � I never did see the free ones recommended by the court, Oh well, I used one on Audubon Street; just a couple of blocks from the court house. The court in New Haven has moved since I had been there in the 70�s � now it is in a somewhat sterile, non-descript, government building with no character, well none that I thought outstanding � looked like any other office building on the block.

Of course in this time of heightened security there was the mandatory security check � empty the pockets � walk through the metal detector � lo and behold, no surprise, I set it off � I guess it was my belt or suspenders � had to spread my arms and get �wanded�. After that and showing my belt etc. I was allowed to proceed to the 9th floor on the Juror Only elevators.

This is a huge, I mean HUGE area � enough seating for over, I would say, 200 individuals. Residing in one corner the Jury Office � check in there and take a seat and wait for further instructions.

Well, now the jury process takes on a persona that I relate to my stint in the U.S. Army � hurry up and wait! After checking in @7:35 A.M. (always like to be early) now I�m amongst a grouping of my peers waiting to decide the fate of other peers, or so we think. 8:45 A.M. rolls around and the clerk announces a gentleman�s name who will deliver a spiel why we�re there and what is expected of us. And following this pep talk there will be a video explaining the jury system in Connecticut. Our speaker keeps it short; goes over the highlights, tells us where we can and cannot go on our floor and what time we can have lunch - important stuff like that. Then the video � another overview of trial by jury in Connecticut and short spiels by former jurors and judges. So, I�m watching the presentation and recognize one of the judges � she presides in New Britain � really familiar and then I remember � she was on the news late last year � stopped for D.U.I., go figure, so I�m thinking this video is kind of old � and when it concludes the credits show it was made in 2004. I guess with the budget crunch you�ve got to use the old stuff � c�est la vie. Oh yes, and after all this the announcement was �time for break � be back in an hour�. We were allowed to go out of the building or just hang out in the jury area. I chose to stay in � going through security again � nah!

Break is over in an hour or so � around 10:00 A.M. a group of people come into the room and check in with the clerk � they were jurors picked for a case the previous day and are reporting for duty. So, it�s now a waiting game � every time some someone walks through the waiting room � 60 or - 70 heads strain to see who is invading �their� territory and if they were like me thinking the person may be a messenger bringing news that would let us be released from playing the waiting game. But, NO, one group was a bunch of lawyers � another just some unidentified court personnel, I reckon.

So we wait and wait � newspapers rustling, hushed cell phone (thankfully) conversations � Tweeter�s tweeting � Face Booker�s booking � some sleeping. A foursome plays setback another watches TV � but mostly everyone is in their own little world � waiting patiently for something to transpire.

Around 12:45 in comes the clerk with the announcement that there isn�t much action today and we can go to lunch a bit early but have to report back at 2:00. Most everyone relishes the chance of a change of scenery and the possibility of an early �retirement� from this ordeal. I ventured out and found a deli and bought a sandwich and had a bottle of green tea. Then just walked around, it was sunny but a bit chilly so I headed back to the courthouse and around 2:05 the clerk gave us our walking orders. So, the waiting game was over and the letter I just received from the court clerk, I�m not required to do this again for 3 years � I�m keeping that document in a safe place, you betcha!

So, that�s the tale of my latest jury duty experience, bearable, got to finish a novel I was reading and met a couple of interesting folks. It really is not that bad and if you are employed it is a day off from the �old grind�.

Here�s an interesting note; if you�re into serving on a jury pool the court does accept volunteers � just call your local Superior Court and they will hook you up; to each his/her own, eh?

Then when I began to write this piece I wondered if the person who coined the phrase �the wheels of justice turn slowly� actually spent some time on jury duty?
Think about it!
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THE THRILL OF COMMUNING WITH NATURE IN TROPICAL CLIMES
By Phyllis S. Donovan

By the time people get to be my age you'd think it would take an awful lot to actually thrill them. But guess what? The thrills keep coming!

Let me tell you about my last off-the-scale delightful adventure. Last month, my husband and I spent some time in the Cayman Islands to take a break from winter. He was pleased that soaking up some tropical sun and swimming in warm waters actually helped relieve his persistent back pain.

We didn't even know before we went that there are just three islands in the Cayman group. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman attract the scuba diving thrill seekers while Grand Cayman, where we stayed, boasts gorgeous beaches and less strenuous water sports...along with lovely shops, expensive restaurants and the ubiquitous banks which helped earn its reputation.

(A recent television series suggested that the Caymans are particularly noted for scuba diving and tax evasion. But neither figured into our plans which were far less demanding. Our bodies aren't robust enough for scuba diving and our finances aren't robust enough to warrant tax evasion.)

But back to my big thrill which involved getting into the water with 20 or 30 stingrays -- many measuring almost four feet across -- and actually frolicking with the graceful creatures. These particular Southern Stingrays, I should point out, are not the lethal kind which resulted in Australian naturalist Steve Irwin's untimely death. But when we were in the water and they started gliding silently toward us, I did wonder what I'd let myself in for.

Actually, the catamaran trips run by Red Sail Sports (which booked trips right from our hotel out to the stingray sandbar) rank right up there as special things to do in Grand Cayman. The story goes that in earlier days, Cayman fisherman would stop at a certain sandbar off the island's coast to clean their fish before coming back into port. The stingrays caught on that there was great food pickings near the sandbar so gathered there for the leavings. Years later, they still hang out there looking for food. Now they are protected by the government which forbids tourists from feeding them but old habits die hard.

As soon as the catamaran set anchor and we were allowed to climb down the back ladder into the waist deep water on the sandbar, the rays moved right in to investigate. With eyes on top of their triangle heads and a mouth on the underside, they can't see what they're eating but clearly wanted to check us out. The biggest ones are female, and very inquisitive, bumping against our legs and raising a flipper to touch us. They were sandpapery feeling on the top side but their white underbellies were silky smooth. We were warned to pat them like a cat, from head to tail, as they each have a sharp barb that lies flat above their tail which could cause a painful puncture.

The males and young rays are more shy and tend to swim deeper in the water, but we were surrounded by the big females who seemed to enjoy the encounter as much as we did. The fewer people in the water, the friendlier they got. We were so enchanted by them that we were the very last ones to reluctantly clamber back onto the boat.

For more information about swimming with stingrays, check out: www.redsailcayman.com.

On another day, we went out to the Cayman turtle farm at Boatswain Beach. Here they nurture and raise the great sea turtles which, at one point, were close to extinction as they were hunted for food. There they collect and care for the eggs laid on the beaches by the female turtles, protecting them from birds and other predators which decimate not only the eggs but dine on the baby turtles when they hatch out. Pens around the premises hold turtles of varying sizes from the smallest youngsters in one tank up through the middle size older turtles right up to the large full-grown turtles ready for mating. Since these turtles can live to be over 100 years old, this farm is already nurturing several generations of turtles to eventually be released into the sea.

Earlier in the month, on a Caribbean cruise with my sister, we had visited a butterfly farm on St. Martin. (Yes, we know there's a butterfly farm right up I-91 in Massachusetts, but we wanted to see the tropical varieties.) There we were toured through netted areas where rainbow-hued butterflies and moths flitted about and chrysalises hung from branches of host trees whose leaves were favored by the caterpillar stage of the different varieties. The butterflies and moths prefer different natural foods, we learned. Like our monarch butterflies prefer milkweed, some tropical kinds like banana or lime leaves.

Protective coloring and markings are of top importance to the otherwise defenseless butterfly or moth. One gorgeous butterfly had wings with markings like owl's eyes to discourage predators while the giant Atlas Moth sported what looked like miniature eagle heads on the ends of its wings.

We were encouraged, when we got home, to plant things in our yards which would appeal to and attract butterflies. For anyone interested in doing this, the information is available on their website: www.thebutterflyfarm.com.

Both in St. Martin and later at Grand Turk we had time to do some snorkeling and saw firsthand how unhealthy the Caribbean reefs are becoming. We didn't see anywhere near the numbers and varieties of the colorful reef fish we had seen as recently as five years ago and the reefs themselves looked cloudy and disintegrating. Concerted efforts are now underway to reverse this change and try to save these dying reefs. We only hope they are not too late.

On a side trip on St. Thomas, we visited the St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens high on a hilltop looking out over the Virgin Island chain. The house gave a rare insight into the more gracious side of island living but the grounds really captured our fancy, with a small stream splashing through a veritable rain forest filled with all kinds of exotic flowering plants. Along the way, tall jungle-style cages held preening lovebirds, lemon-crested cockatoos and brilliantly colorful macaws. One especially industrious macaw named Sandy was so intent on ripping strips of wood off his cage with his formidable beak, he couldn't be bothered to pose to have his photo taken. Later, as we relaxed at the outdoor refreshment bar, one of the cockatoos, perched prettily on his keeper's shoulder, devoured a whole banana, bite by dainty bite.

When our cruise ended in Port Everglades, we took a bus back to my sister's winter place in St. Petersburg crossing the old Alligator Alley, now the east-west portion of I-75. From the bus, we had almost a bird's eye view of the adjoining everglades waterways, filled with large white heron, black cormorants and occasionally a great blue heron. We had naturally also been on the lookout for alligators, expecting them to be large brownish green critters. Once we were told that the big black logs we'd been seeing strewn along the water's edge were actually the alligators, we saw too many to count on our trip west to Naples. What did we know, two kids from the Berkshire Hills who had never seen alligators in the wild before. To us, this was another thrill we couldn't have experienced at home.

The next week, we visited long-time friends in Punta Gorda (the same couple who introduced us several years ago to the charming, diminutive burrowing owls who were later featured in the movie, "Hoot.") This time, they had another natural wonder to share with us. At a nearby town park, a pair of bald eagles had built a nest on top of a warped tree not even as tall as a telephone pole. One baby eagle had hatched out in the large, scraggly nest and although people come regularly to watch its progress, the two adult birds take turns guarding the nest and searching the area for food to bring back to their eaglet. When we were there, he was big enough to be seen sitting up there in the nest and gobbling up whatever the parents brought to him. The wonder was that the trio paid no attention to the people who regularly camped out nearby to watch them as they went about their daily lives, free in the wild.

We came home from this trip reassured that nature, in all its forms, is indeed wonderfully amazing and we should do all we can to help preserve and nurture it for our grandchildren and generations to come to marvel over and enjoy.
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�Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective�
by
Gregory M. Simpson

Have you ever felt drawn to another time and place you have never visited? As a reluctant traveler, there are no places I desire to visit, save one � Egypt, more specifically, Bubastis, the site of the ancient temple of the cat goddess, Bastet. Today, it is called Tell Basta and is in the eastern delta.

The Cat in Ancient Egypt, by Jaromir Malek, describes that the earliest known remains of a cat in ancient Egypt come from the period before 4,000 B.C. Here the bones of a man were unearthed who had been buried with a cat, perhaps his pet.

Mummified cats do not appear before the first millennium B.C. My favorite birthday outing is to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan to view these cat mummies and other Egyptian antiquities. My wife patiently lets me marvel � or shall I say obsess � over my �connection� to these artifacts from thousands of years ago.

Cats stand alone as the animal that domesticated itself. As it moved first into communities and then into homes to kill rodents which threatened grain supplies, it became a beloved pet, and eventually a deity. The mutually beneficial relationship between cats and people dates back to 4000-2000 B.C. By 2000-1000 B.C., the cat was fully domesticated as a companion animal in the Egyptian household. Besides statues, they were depicted on many items, including necklaces, vase handles, rattles, amulets, cosmetic jars, pins, and plaques. Any likeness of Bastet, the cat goddess, was believed to bring good luck.

By 1000 � 350 A.D., cats were seen as manifestations of certain deities, especially Bastet, and cats were bred in large quantities in temple catteries. Bastet, or Bast, as she was also called, was a goddess believed to respond to personal situations and crises related to healing, intuition, protection, joy, pleasure, fertility, generosity, marriage, sensuality, and sexuality. It was during the Ptolemaic period of 332-30 B.C. that the cat�s popularity reached its peak in Egypt, where it was a familiar sight in most homes. Its popularity surpassed that of any other animal.

Egyptians� love of cats, and belief in the divinity of even household felines, was shown in many ways. The Greek historian, Herodotus, wrote that when an Egyptian house caught fire, those who lived there were more concerned about their cat�s safety than their possessions. He also noted that when a cat died, the inhabitants of a house would shave their eyebrows in mourning. Family members lamented loudly for hours. The cat would then be either embalmed and buried or placed in a sarcophagus, depending on the wealth of its owners. Cat cemeteries throughout Egypt date from 900 B.C. and it is estimated that hundreds of thousands, if not millions of cats, are buried there.

When Herodotus visited Egypt in the mid-fifth century B.C., he found that anyone who intentionally killed a cat was put to death. Even an accidental killing was punished by whatever penalty the temple priests selected. Anyone finding a dead cat in the street would avoid it, for fear of being suspected in its death. In 59 B.C., a visiting Roman accidentally killed a cat with his chariot and was lynched by an angry mob. Even the intercession of Egyptian King Ptolemy could not save him. It was told that the Persian conqueror, Cambyses, shielded his troops in battle with cats, resulting in the Egyptians losing a key battle for fear of harming the cats.

Thousands of years later, the cat still fares well in Egypt, where people are fond of cats and mostly treat them kindly. There are established charities to care for cats, the best known being that of the Sultan Baibars (1260-1277 A.D.), who left a garden near his mosque for the upkeep of Cairo cats. The streaks of yellow and cream fur of the Egyptian cat are described as the marks left when the Prophet Mohammed stroked it. It is said that he cut off a sleeve of his cloak rather than disturb a sleeping cat.

For most of my life, I have been fascinated with Egypt and dedicated to the welfare of cats. Could it be that my devotion is the result of an earlier life in ancient Egypt? If you believe in reincarnation, it just may be so.

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.

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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!

SATs, ACTs, Finals and More!

Does your teen start biting her nails to the bone at the thought of the impending spring testing frenzy? The obvious clue around our house is a lack of erasers. By late April, each and every pencil has lost the little pink thing at the end. This is the time of year when the pressures of back to back finals and standardized college entrance exams are enough to send the most confident teen into a tail spin. However, with the right preparation, your teen will realize that tests are nothing to lose sleep over.

Is your teen suffering from �test anxiety� or is he simply a bit nervous? Mike Malmon-Berg, Ph.D., a psychologist and Coordinator of Mental Health Services at The College of Wooster in Wooster, Ohio, explains, �Test anxiety is a specific condition that results from the fear of a negative evaluation. It is similar to the anxiety experienced by employees who are about to be reviewed by a supervisor.� Malmon-Berg reports that virtually everyone experiences some form of nervousness while taking exams, but approximately 20% of students suffer from test anxiety, which he says is characterized by two distinct symptoms. Malmon-Berg describes the first as �a level of angst that is disproportionate to the actual threat or consequences.� The second characteristic is �a degree of distraction that has a significant
negative effect on the individual's performance.�

Parents shouldn�t feel helpless. There are many ways you can help your teen put testing in perspective. Malmon-Berg points out, �Parents can help in several ways. The first is to realize that their job is to help take pressure off their teen, not add to it with demands and quotas.� He warns not to make comments such as �Your college future depends on this grade.� He also adds, �Ironically, most students who experience test anxiety tend already to be fairly high achievers who put undue pressure on themselves. Parents can help by providing a perspective.� Malmon-Berg suggests that parents offer encouraging comments such as �You've always done well in this subject� or �I believe in you, even if sometimes you don't believe in yourself.� He explains, �These will go a long way toward taking a bit of the edge off.� He also advises that parents use humor to take the excess seriousness out of the situation. He suggests that parents remind their teen that one test is not life or death and that a less than desirable grade can be made up for in many other ways.

Even if your teen doesn�t have severe test anxiety, she will still benefit from any assistance and encouragement you can give, along with trying out specific strategies which will help ease her nerves before, during, and after the big test:

Before:
� Don�t cram � prepare well in advance with multiple study sessions
� Ask for help (from your teacher, professor, or competent student)
� Time yourself on practice tests to ease your worry about time constraints
� Lightly review an outline of basic facts shortly before the exam
� Prepare your body: a good night�s sleep and a healthy breakfast go a long way
� College entrance exams: enroll in a test preparation class

During:
� Take a deep breath
� Use positive �self talk�
� Scan the entire test briefly so there are no surprises as you go along
� Take your time and check your work

After:
� Take a walk
� Plan to go somewhere afterwards to take your mind off the test
� Keep mistakes and grades in perspective � what�s the worst that can happen?

TIPS AND TALES (from Teens)

�Most teachers take a lot of what they put on the tests and quizzes right into the exam. Look over previous tests to see what you did wrong and correct them. The morning of the exam, and before going to school, I take 10 to 15 minutes to rehash the things that I studied.�

Ammon Doney � Essex Junction, VT � 17

�I try not to over-cram my brain because I know I will lose all the material in my head. The one thing that I do that really calms me down and helps me out is chew gum. For some reason that always relaxes me.�Sammy Giansante � Berlin, NJ - 16

Want to share your ideas? Upcoming topic:
Vacations that teens love�they�ll even go with you!

Please send your full name, address, and brief comments to:
myrnahaskell@gmail.com

Or visit:
http://home.roadrunner.com/~haskellfamily/myrna/

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Home Country
Slim Randles

When little Jimmy Crispin walked away from his home the other day, it was an earth-shaking calamity. Jimmy is three, you see, and Cheryl Crispin, his mom, is really a good mother, but we all know how quick a three-year-old can be. It was cold, and all he had was a sweater over his regular clothes. Blue-and-white. Knitted for him by his grandmother in the city.

Within an hour, it was on the radio stations in the valley. The high school closed at noon so students could help in the search. Steve and Dud saddled horses to hunt for the boy down along the river.

By lunch time, we had been informed by reporters just what Jimmy had for breakfast, what color shoes he was wearing, a good description including a small scar on his left ankle, and what are his favorite things to eat.

At the barber shop and down at the Curl Up �N Dye beauty salon, Jimmy was the only topic of conversation. Jimmy�s plight replaced even the weather and political discussions at the Mule Barn and the garage.

At least two local churches unlocked their doors so people could stop by and pray for the little boy�s safe return, and ladies from one church and the Ladies Literary League took hot dishes over to the Crispin house for the family.

About eight o�clock that night, Mrs. Shepherd went out in her backyard to see what her dog was barking at, and found little Jimmy huddled in a corner of her garage. He was cold and hungry and crying, but he was all right.

By eight thirty, everyone in the valley knew about it and gave prayers of thanks.

On the other side of the world, a disaster claimed tens of thousands of lives later that night. But in the morning, all we talked about was Jimmy. We all know a three-year-old boy. None of us knows tens of thousands of people.
We�ll just send some money and prayers and say isn�t that a shame.

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Brought to you by The Long Dark, An Alaska Winter�s Tale. Available at www.slimrandles.com.

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!

ICE
from Audrey Cable Linke

I never saw Dad cut ice, but my friend, LeRoy Hibbard, remembers seeing him and a crew of three or four men cutting ice on the pond below our house, next door to the Hibbards. LeRoy told me he saw Dad using a team of oxen pulling the blocks of ice up the hill to a shoot. The ice then went down the shoot to be loaded and taken up to the icehouse near Church's barn. The icehouse was in the shape of a corncrib and was probably built for that purpose originally. The layers of ice were covered with sawdust, which kept the ice from melting. Dad used an ice pick to cut into the size blocks he wanted, then carried the ice with ice tongs to our house and to the kitchen of his boss, Stephen B. Church, whose business was drilling wells.

Ray remembers going for ice with his little red wagon. The Linkes lived on Lilac Street in New Haven, and Ray, with a sister or two, went to the icehouse on Bassett Street to buy a piece of ice. The iceman would take a pick, chop a line across the ice and then tap it, the piece of ice would fall off the larger chunk exactly right. A ten-cent piece of ice would last the family the best part of a week..

My friend, Al Semmler, who grew up in Seymour, told about his first job, the winter after he graduated from high school in 1932. The depression was in full swing and jobs were impossible to find, but he heard they were hiring at Clark's pond in Woodbridge where ice was being cut. Al and his friend walked from Seymour to Woodbridge in the dark, at least five miles, as they had to be there before dawn; both were hired. Al's job was to guide the chunks of ice as they came toward the bridge, shoving them under the bridge with a long pole with a hook on it.

My brother-in-law, Jack Randel, got ice from Crowfoots, on the corner of the Oxford Road and West Street in Oxford. The Randels lived on Chestnut Tree Hill, summers. Jack would go for the ice with his goat wagon, riding in the wagon on the way to get the ice and part way back after he got it. Then he'd get out of the wagon when he and the goat got to the hill. The goat was trained and all Jack had to do was steer it. Jack said the cart was similar to the one in the picture (not shown), but the seat was raised, like a western wagon you see in old movies.

Jack lived in New York City during the school year and told how there were no elevators in apartment buildings with less than seven floors. People who wanted ice had a sign with big numbers on it. They would place the sign in a window with the numbers showing what size piece was needed. They could buy a ten-cent piece, a 25-cent piece, a 15-cent piece, or perhaps a 50-cent piece. The iceman would look up to the sixth floor windows, try to see the number on the sign, then lug the ice up to the apartment on the sixth or whatever floor the sign was on. A man could only carry two chunks of ice at a time so he climbed many a stairway to fulfill his job.

An icebox was usually a rather handsome piece of furniture, made of wood and lined with tin. Ice was kept in the upper part of the icebox, put in from the top. The lower part of the cabinet had shelves where food was kept. As the ice melted, the pan under the icebox was emptied, usually once a day. As our block of ice melted we put jars of homemade root beer next to it. That root beer was a welcome, delicious, refreshing drink for Dad when he came in from cutting brush or hay, and we all enjoyed it with our supper.

Ice was used to make homemade ice cream. The ice cream mixture was placed in a cylinder and the cylinder was placed in a wooden container. Crushed ice was added around the cylinder and coarse salt was added to help melt the ice---melting ice is what made the mixture get cold. Then the dasher in the cylinder was cranked by hand until the creamy mix became hard to move. The lid was then removed, the dasher taken out, and the cylinder returned to the ice where the ice cream continued to jell. This fabulous dessert was served on the Fourth of July and other special occasions. No ice cream ever tasted better than that, ever! Just thinking about it makes me smile.
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�Maggie�s Corner�
Make Room for �Oliver�
By: Maggie Griffin

If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I�d walk right up to Heaven and bring all my dogs and cats home again. I know they are happy, being in a better place, but think of all those dogs and cats that are still here waiting to have a loving home. I always do, and now I am going to tell you why.

Since as long as I can remember, my love for animals was, and always will be, something special to me. From my first family dog when I was six years old, Tori, to my Cat Teresa that my Great - Uncle Frank and cousin Angelo gave me, my birds Fred and Ginger, then Tweedy, my Mini-poodles; Murphy and Tasha , and of course my adorable Beagle, Ben. To conclude; I certainly won�t leave out the guinea pigs. Let�s not forget there was Daisy, the goat my Dad won for wearing the best costume. All of those animals mean so much to me, still to this day.

Remembering when my parents brought Tori home, they were out visiting someone who had a litter of puppies. When my parents came home, my Dad was holding an open paper bag and told us all to get in the family room as he and Mom had a surprise for us. He then placed the paper bag down very carefully and out came Tori, a Poodle/Terrier mix.

When I was in second grade, Tori took a long walk, for two weeks, and how my entire family was so heartbroken and worried, even Mom cried for days, but we never gave up hope. My Dad placed ads in the paper constantly, until one night, at dinner time; the North Haven Animal Shelter called and said �We have a dog that fits this description�. At that time, it was closing hours, but the man heard our cry to let us all come down and see if that was our Tori. He let us. We all stopped what we were doing, left the dinner on the table and drove to the Animal Shelter. Sure enough, it was Tori. How I missed him, I was so happy to see Tori, looking into his Angel Eyes. That night we took him home. My Mom gave him a nice warm bath and a home cooked meal. Tori lived a long time, he was there when I got married, and he was there when I had my first child. Naturally, when I turned 22 years old, Tori passed away of natural causes.

Then for me, along came Murphy, a dog my husband and I adopted who was a full breed mini-poodle. We adopted him from a nice couple in Hamden who had to find Murphy a nice home because they just had a child and Murphy sort of had a hard time accepting that. Well, after Murphy, we wanted him to have a friend, so we adopted Tasha, another mini-poodle, as a puppy. When the two met, it was love at first site for Murphy. I thought to myself, �What a wonderful world for them�. Together they ate, walked, played, slept; all the things two dogs do together. But in 1999, Murphy passed away of a sudden stroke and again, it devastated me, my kids and even Tasha as she was alone without her companion and partner in mischief.

My kids were little and like me they were heartbroken when Murphy died. I told my children at that time �God needed Murphy now to guard the gates of Heaven�.

Following, I saw an ad in a local paper for another mini-poodle, but when I called, the poodle was already adopted. However during that same call, the North Haven Animal Shelter told me they just took in a Beagle. My son being; four years old; and my daughter turning 7 at that time, they begged me �Mommy please, can we see the dog�. Off we went.

Ben (whose previous name was Taco) was left out during a tropical storm from his previous owner who took a vacation. He was left with no food, no water, in a yard on a busy street. A good person who had a huge heart called the animal shelter to take him in, as I was told, this happened to him more than once from his previous owner. Not knowing who made that call, I knew I had to take Ben and give him the love and attention he deserved. Although his previous name was �Taco�, he didn�t look like a taco to me or my kids.

How did we change his name to Ben? Simple, Tommy named him. Prior to meeting �Taco�, that same week when Murphy passed away, my son enjoyed watching the movie �Ben� and loved the song �Ben� sung by young Michael Jackson at that time. Tommy being only 4 years old, heartbroken and lost without Murphy, he cared so much about Taco knowing he was left behind by what he called �a mean lady that left him in the cold and rain�. Tommy re-named �Taco� to be an official �Ben�. The difference in reference to the movie was to us Ben is a dog, not a mouse like in the movie. Ben took to his new name very quickly, learned so many tricks and he and my son were inseparable. If you ever heard the song �Ben�, then you�d understand why my son, at four years old at the time with a BIG heart, felt why his new dog�s name had to be �Ben�. Ben had a lot of spunk in him. The first thing my daughter, Stephanie, gave him was a red bandana to wear and her Disney Bean bag chair to lie on. Tasha was happy to have Ben be a part of our family as she too grieved the loss of Murphy in her own way as animals do. Then we moved to a larger home in 2002.

In 2003, along came Harley, a Boxer/Doberman Mix. She is such a Powder Puff, a lovable dog that loves to talk to her neighbors every day. Given she is 65 pounds now; Harley is a dog who is over friendly. She gets on her hind legs to tell you she wants to give you a hug. Very smart, she then was trained to help me during my battle of cancer. How did I get Harley? A friend of one of my clients told me about a litter of three, Harley being the little ball of snuggle out of that litter. The owner of the litter sent me a picture of Harley knowing how much I love animals. She then asked me if I would like to adopt Harley. I said, yes. Off to West Haven with my kids and my niece to pick up Harley. Harley loves the water, so much so we needed to buy her a kiddy pool for the summer months.

How did Harley get her name? Simple, when I brought her home, the first thing my husband did was look at her paws and said was �She is going to be a large dog�. But prior to that, he was talking about getting a Harley Davidson. Therefore, Tom being concerned about the size of how big the dog would get and wanting a Harley at the same time, compromising was the best option. Tom got his Harley and she is 65 pounds of a bundle of love.

Since 2003 to 2009, we have three dogs. Amazing how our family pets all got along. My oldest sister would call my pets �The Welcoming Committee� whenever she entered my home. Harley apparently is the president of the Welcoming Committee. But recently, back in September of 2009, Tasha the mini-poodle passed away at the age of 18 of simple old age. February of 2010, Ben passed away at the age of 13 of congestive heart failure. As a family, we all took care of them to the end because the fact is all our pets are a big part of our family. I cried for months about Tasha and I prayed so hard that she found Murphy in Heaven. I have to admit, I am still crying about Ben now too.

But prior to Ben passing away, after Tasha, irony in a few things took place. In between Tasha�s passing and Ben�s passing, about a month ago, I saw a beautiful Black Lab/Dalmatian mix. I was leaving a property I was showing at that time in Wallingford and saw him right in the middle of the fork of the road on Parker Farms Road where you would turn onto Hope Hill. I stopped and just looked at him for a moment. Seeing how he looked at me with those big brown eyes and how clean he was, I knew I had to help this dog. I guess he lost his collar along the way. I immediately put on my hazards, got out of the car where the fork to the road is on Parker Farms, while the driver behind me was very patient, she probably assumed I was trying to get a dog that belonged to me, when in actuality; I stopped to help this dog.

Easily this dog jumped into my car, which I was very happy about, that told me the dog loves to ride in the car and I knew even all the more that he is trained and he has a family that is looking for him; and must be worried about him. At that moment, I thought about the time when I was in second grade when Tori was missing and how my family and I felt, worrying and missing him so much. I somehow knew the family who owned this dog was feeling those same feelings of worry and missing him.

As I was driving, I noticed this dog licking my back seat. That told me he was hungry. So while I was on the road, I called my office and asked them to call The Wallingford Animal Shelter, where they spoke to Dean, to let them know I am on my way with a dog and how I found him. But I wasn�t going to let this dog go hungry, therefore, being hungry myself, we went through the drive thru at Subway since it was on the way to the Wallingford Animal Shelter. I have to admit, I had the best lunch date that entire month just eating subs in the car with this dog. He had a cold cut combo on wheat, no turkey. Wow - did he eat it.

As I was feeding him, and talking to him, I had to give him a name. So I called him �Bruce�. I told him that I can tell he has a family that is missing him and they are looking for him, but not to worry, he will be home with his family. He perked up his ears when I said �Family�. We finished our lunch and proceeded to The Wallingford Animal Shelter where they were waiting my arrival with the Dog. Dean was there. Not even a minute went by and Dean said to me �I just received a call and a flyer through the fax machine that matches the description of this dog�. I asked Dean �Is there a name for the dog on the flyer�? He said, �Yes, his name is Monkey�.

So I stood a while and kept calling the dog by the name on the flyer. Every time I called his name �Monkey�, he wagged his tail and came right to me. Meanwhile, Dean was on the phone with the owner and the owner was on his way to see if in fact that was his dog. Sure enough, that was his dog and Monkey is so happy to go home to his family.

Meanwhile, Ben was getting worse in his condition, so we knew. Ben passed away peacefully in my husband�s arms on February 5th. He was our little buddy, tears from our eyes flowed upon him while he peacefully passed on. How he loved to jump for a Milk Bone and give paw, just like Tasha and Murphy. His favorite thing was his Big Teddy Bear stuff animal, tennis balls and my socks. But with Ben passing away, now the loss of two dogs in less than 6 months really took its toll on my entire family, including Harley.

Two days later, I opened the Advisor and saw an ad for a Dog looking for a home. Talk about repeat history. That dog was spoken for already, but Erin at The Animal Haven in North Haven told me �we just took in a Toy poodle, would you like to see him�? There was no doubt in my mind I had to see this dog that they named �Angelo�, after his previous owner who recently passed away.

On February 7th, my husband and I went to see �Angelo�. Before us was another couple looking at Angelo and how I started to cry. Every Dog I looked at, a majority were already been spoken for, that is how much love, care and attention the animal shelters give to all of these pets, you can see it in the eyes of a Dog and a Cat.

But there is the coincidence about this dog, the poodle, they named after the owner who passed away. I felt strongly in my heart I had to take him home, I just knew he had to live in my home. Immediately, we went home to pick up Harley to meet Angelo. They clicked. Following, I started signing of the adoption papers. However, like Ben, I told my family �He does not look like an Angelo, what should we name him�? My daughter then said �Oliver�. I asked my husband, since February 7th was his birthday, if he wanted to name the dog. He then said, �I like the name Oliver and we can also call him Ollie for short�.

There was really something there, an immediate connection with Oliver. Turns out, Oliver, who they called Angelo at The Animal Haven because it was the name of his previous owner who passed away, turned out to be the same Angelo that is my Mother�s cousin; who he and his Dad, my great-uncle, also gave me my cat that I named �Teresa� after my God Mother, when I was 10 years old. My Great-Uncle Frank and Cousin Angelo and my Great-Aunt, all of whom lived in the same house, knew how much I love animals since I as far back as I can remember. How did I find out he was my Mom�s cousin�s Dog? I got all of Oliver�s paper work from the previous vets he went to, that is how I knew he was my Mother�s cousin�s dog. And knowing my Mother�s cousin, there was no doubt in my mind Oliver loves Italian Food and listening to guitar music as I took my lessons to play my guitar from my Great-Uncle Frank. My mother just couldn�t believe this. How incredible and coincidental this was since I have not seen her cousin Angelo in 20 years. I didn�t even know he passed away until my Mom told me during all of this.

I can be certain now that my Mom�s cousin heard my prayer and saw my tears over my dogs Tasha and Ben. Faith has is how I ended up with his dog. Oliver, being so small, can certainly jump heights, walk on his two hind legs and he just loves to tease Harley. He likes to be the boss. He is 8 pounds who enjoys going up to Harley and lick her nose, hop on her chair while she is on it and pushes her aside as if he was saying �Make Room for Oliver�.

Please, find it in your heart to give a dog or a cat a loving home, faith is one good reason why. Animals give us unconditional love and they communicate with humans simply by their eyes and actions. There are so many dogs and cats just waiting to be adopted. Donations are needed as well to these animal shelters, donations like dog or cat food, blankets, dishes, monetary to help keep these shelters running and caring for all those loving pets. They are God�s creatures too and they need you.

I will always love and miss all my pets that moved on and up to Animal Heaven, and I am thankful for the happiness they all gave to me and my family. But to me, giving another Dog a loving home is something I knew in my heart was worth more than 200% sure. When someone shows 100% love to an animal, those animals love you back 200% in return, unconditional love that is.

I�d like to thank The Animal Haven in North Haven, CT again, Ridge Hill Animal Hospital in North Haven for caring for all my pets, The Wallingford, CT Animal Shelter for bringing Monkey back to his home, Meriden Humane Society and all of the Animal Shelters in CT.

Most of all, like the person who finally helped Ben just by caring enough for him and called the Animal Shelter back in 1999 because he was left out for over a week during a tropical storm; remember, don�t be afraid to help an animal you see needs help; they tell you through their eyes. Our Animal Control Officers take good care of Animals that are in need of help, love and care. Most of all, they will bring those Animals home again; whether they are missing from a loving family or need a loving family to call their own.

There is a reason why a pet needs a loving home. Just look at my experience. Especially the thought that Oliver was already family before he came to live with my family. If I had my way, I�d adopt more animals, but then I�d have to find my Husband a Loving Home. Please find it in your heart to help by adopting a pet, donate, anything you can do. We, as humans, can talk for our loving animals and help them.

Visit: www.TheAnimalHaven.com , www.wallingfordanimalshelter.com , www.petfinder.com/shelters/CT20.html .

See the pets they are advertising on their sites, looking for a loving home. These shelters are known to be places where friendships are made. Trust me; call them too, there are more dogs and cats at all the shelters in Connecticut, and every state for that matter. New dogs and cats arrive every day. Donations are a very big help as well. These shelters can provide you a list of donations they accept to keep these shelters running and these animals fed and warm until they find good homes for these lovable animals who want a place in your heart where they will always be there to say to you �welcome home�.

And thank you God for giving me all the pets that are now with you guarding the gates of Heaven, they know how much they are still loved and missed, still to this day. Thank you Cousin Angelo for making sure I adopted your dog. In your way, you lead me to him. I promise to continue to play the guitar to him and once and a while treat him to Italian meatballs.

I would like to share with you, something someone sent to me, not once, but twice, to honor of my love for my family pets through the years; and all the pets of my family members, for the life they lived and the happiness they gave. This came to me after Tasha, my mini-poodle, passed away, then again recently when Ben passed away.

I need people to know, as a Real Estate Professional, home certainly is where the heart is, even for our loving pets. This letter, when reading it a second time, brought Oliver home to my family all the more.

To my Dearest Family,
There are some things I'd like to say. But first of all, to let you know, I arrived to Heaven okay. Here I dwell with God above. Here, there are no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy just because I am out of your site. Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night. That day, I had to leave you, when my life on earth was through; God picked me up and hugged me. God said to me, "I welcome you. It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on. I need you here badly; you're a part of my plan. There is so much we have to do, to help our mortal man." God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do. And foremost on the list is to watch and care for you. When you lie in bed at night after your day's chores are put to flight, God and I are closest to you...in the middle of the night. When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years, because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears. But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain. I wish that I could tell you what God has planned. If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand. But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over, I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before. There are many rocky roads ahead for you and many hills to climb; but together we can do it by taking one day and step at a time. It was always my philosophy, as your family pet, what you give unto the world; the world will give to you. If you can help another dog, cat or any animal that�s in sorrow and pain; then you can say to God at night...."My day was not in vain." Now I am content. I want you to know that my life with you was worthwhile just knowing as I passed along the way I made you smile. So if you meet another dog or cat, any animal that is sad and feeling low; just lend a hand to pick them up, as on your way you go. When you're walking down the street and you've got me on your mind; that�s only because I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind. And remember when it's time for you to go...from your body to be free. Remember you're not going....you're coming here to be with me. ~ Anonymous

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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!

Dear Housewives

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 andwe will answer it in the next issue.June and Flora

Dear Housewives,I can't share this with my friends so I am turning to you, my local 'go to gals'. I am in my late 60's and have grown children. They all went to college and have good jobs that pay well. My husband and I paid for them to attend college and that caused us to still have a mortgage on our home. I regret second mortgaging our home time and again for our children's college. I am still working to enjoy life and to pay my mortgage. Help me get this off my mind or figure out a plan. Thanks ladies. - Retired and tired of working in CT

FLORA: If your children do not know that you and your husband still are paying on a mortgage; it's time to tell them. Honestly, I think that children who have the means, should help their elders out. Here is a shout out: If you are reading this and your parents are senior citizens with a mortgage: Here Ye Here Ye. Gather up your siblings to come up with a plan to pool funds to assist your parents. You did not have student loans, but your parents are still struggling; give them a hand.

JUNE: I do agree with Flora except I would not say "Here Ye" and I don't know who Flora means by "elders" but I think children of means should help their parents to not have any financial burdens. No one in their late 60's should have to work if their children are living a well off life. Also, there is more than one grown child here so they can all easily pool some money. I say give them this article or come right out and tell them the situation. If you raised them right, they will offer before you can even ask.

Dear Housewives, I need some good entertainment, local and fun. Any ideas? - Looking for fun

JUNE: Of course, the library always has passes for museums and play places. For adult fun (clean adult fun) try a comedy show. Hartford sometimes have decent headliners visiting or see a big comic at the Oakdale (or whatever it is called now).

FLORA: Go to a local church's BINGO night! It is a lot of fun, not expensive and helps a good cause. St.Stan's in Meriden has a fun one on Saturday nights.Bingo is for ALL AGES.

JUNE: Great idea Flora!! I know a great girl who works there, all the proceeds benefit the school and all the workers are parents volunteering their time. Every Sat. Games start at 6:30 PM but doors open earlier. Food is sold as well.

Anniversary Wishes
Dear Andy, Dawn and The People's Press,We are so proud and pleased to be a part of the newspaper. Congratulations on your 125th issue! We wish you much continued success!

Sincerely,June and Flora

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Choose Something Like A Star

"So when at times the mob is swayedTo carry praise or blame too far,We may choose something like a starTo stay our minds on and be staid."

Those are the closing lines in one of my favorite poems by Robert Frost. It has a deeper meaning than I realized when I first became acquainted with this poem, which was in high school when I was in the a cappella choir. Randall Thompson set this poem to music, as well as others by Frost. It seems Frost was actually criticizing contemporary poets of the day, the stars of the time, and asking them to "Say something to us we can learn/ By heart and when alone repeat, " and to "Use language we can comprehend." I think the closing lines of his poem are suggesting that his poems have the requisite elements he is suggesting others have, and we can rely on their steadfast quality, and indeed they have stood the test of time.

Robert Frost was a star to me back in 5th grade. I was living in Amherst, Masschusetts, in 1959, and that fall I began 5th grade in a very small school that housed five grades, 1st through 5th, one room for each grade. Mary Whittaker was our teacher, and she was quite young. One of our assignments was to memorize a poem and recite it in front of the class. I chose Birches, a fairly long poem for a 10-year-old to memorize. It's a beautiful poem though, so it was not hard for me to do. Well, it was a little challenging, but I did it. Mrs. Whittaker knew I loved Frost's poetry, and encouraged me to memorize more.

I believe it was in the spring of 1960 that Mrs. Whittaker arranged for me, my twin sister Nancy, and one other classmate, Debbie, to attend a reading of poems by Robert Frost himself. Of course, I cannot tell you where this took place, but it seemed like a really large concert hall sort of room. There was a large stage with a podium, and there he was! How the next part was orchestrated, I have no memory of, but I believe Mrs. Whittaker asked if these three little girls could sit on the edge of the stage so that they could see better. I remember we were wearing little frilly kind of dresses and our best shoes, and I can remember sitting on the edge and looking up at this large, old man with white hair. Can you imagine how exciting it was to be sitting a few feet away from my favorite poet? I would not be able to recall exactly which of his poems he recited, but I am almost positive that they included Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening, Mending Wall, The Road Not Taken, The Gift Outright, and Birches.
Listening to Robert Frost that evening was an event which was indelibly etched in my memory. He was and is definitely a star to stay my mind on and be staid.(The Wallingford Public Library has an audiotape entitled "Robert Frost Reads His Poetry" in case you would like to hear him for yourself. [Thanks, Earl, for letting me know.])

Barbara Sherburne
barndt49@yahoo.com

James Herbert Smith, author of WAH-SAY-LAN, gives a book reading and signing event at the Wallingford Public Library
By Priscilla Reynolds

The book, WAH-SAY-LAN, is an historic novel, James Smith's first novel, about the history of the Iroquois Indians in the American Revolution. The Community Room at the library was full of men, women and some children on the evening of February 24, 2010. Speaking for myself the author lifted my spirits as he read excerpts from his novel. (The evening seemed gloomy and if it hadn't been for my friends and their kindness in driving me, I would have missed out on an inspiring and interesting talk.)

James read excerpts from his book without letting his audience know the whole story. He explained that many of the conversations among the historical figures had actually taken place but perhaps at a different time or place, and the history of the Iroquois was authentic. He has added his own imaginative skills in the journey of his main characters. But even a few of them were based on historical figures. For example, the slave he called Freeman Trentham, had lived in Wallingford, Connecticut. I empathized with the slave when he was litterally dumped in New England and separated from his parents. He could not understand the English language but always recalled the first conversation of the men around him or rather one name mentioned in that conversation of Thomas Jefferson. I'm anxious to read the novel to see if Freeman tries to find Thomas Jefferson.

Wah-Say-Lan is a beautiful Seneca woman, just 17 at the beginning of the novel. She is the fictional main character and presents herself as a modern feminist. James Herbert read the first page of the novel that described this beautiful tall woman and the beloved island where the Senecas lived. One can visualize the two main characters, Freeman and Wah-Say-Lan becoming a couple.

Many people from the audience asked questions following the book reading. My friend, Margaret, wanted to know the slave's real name and what had actually happened to him. His real identity was Chatham Freeman and Margaret plans to see if his grave lies in Center Street Cemetery. Many were interested in the Rev. Samuel Andrews, also an abolitionist from Wallingford, who confronts George Washington in history and in this novel.

James H. Smith is executive editor of the NEW BRITAIN HERALD and the BRISTOL PRESS, and former editor for 14 years at the RECORD JOURNAL. He is a former president of the NEW ENGLAND SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS and a recipient of the distinguished Writing Award from the AMERICAN SOCIETY OF NEWSPAPER EDITORS.

James and his lovely wife spent time afterwards talking with the fans and autographing his novel. The library offered everyone coffee or tea and tasty treats.

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Eagles at Hanover Pond Life along the Q River�

An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association

For awhile now a pair of mature, bald eagles, along with an occasional juvenile, has been spending time at Hanover Pond in South Meriden. On any given day they can be seen in the large trees on the island in the center of the pond, or else in the many big trees along the edge of the water. Most of the time they are just looking over the area, but every now and then you can see them in action, swooping down into the pond in search of a meal. Other times you can see them gliding on the thermal currents, floating over Hanover Pond with such ease.

The bald eagle is our national symbol and has been struggling for survival for the past fifty years. Loss of their habitat and the use of the pesticide, DDT resulted in severely depleted the eagles� numbers. The American Bald eagle was placed on the �Endangered� species list and was moved to �Threatened� in July of 1995 and through conservation and repopulation efforts was taken off the list in June of 2007.

The female, who is about 13 pounds with a wingspan of up to seven feet, is usually 25% bigger than the male, who, by contrast, is about 9 pounds with a five and a half foot wingspan. They have the trademark bald head, which is actually white feathers, with yellow talons and hooked beak and that takes about four years to achieve maturity, with a lifespan of twenty years.

According to QRWA President, Ginny Chirsky, �Because of the tremendous efforts to restore the Quinnipiac River throughout the state, Hanover Pond has now become a feeding ground for the eagles, who feed primarily on fish, small animals and water fowl. These big, beautiful birds would not hang around if there was not a substantial food source, which is a result of cleaner water.�

Both eagles may not be there for long. Bald eagles mate for life and in CT courtship begins in January. With any luck they will be nesting one to three eggs, usually two, that will a hatch sometime in April to May.

Their nest, which is called an aerie, is quite large and estimated at five feet wide by 2 feet deep. The nest needs a large and strong tree to sustain the weight of the nest and eagles. Large branches are used to make the nest and it is lined with twigs, grass, and moss. One bird sits on the eggs all the time to keep them warm while the other scouts for food.

Both parents will take turn feed the baby eagles, which are called eaglets, a diet of mostly fish, which is eaten by the parent and regurgitated into the mouths of their young. When the babies are about three months old they will begin to fly and search for their own food. They will stay in the nest until the end of the summer and then leave to find their own feeding area.

According to Mary Mushinsky, �In 2007, we celebrated the first record of bald eagles nesting on the Quinnipiac River in North Haven. They raised two young. The following year, the eagles abandoned the nest upon the start of construction for the North Haven Commons shopping mall.�

Mushinsky continues, �QRWA volunteers have participated in eagle counts in prior years, and our paddle program interns, along with local residents, have enjoyed the presence of 2 juvenile eagles for the last 2 summers at Hanover Pond.�

�Bald eagles in the Quinnipiac River watershed are a beautiful sight to see and give us hope for the future,� adds Peter Picone, CT DEP Wildlife Specialist and QRWA board member.

As stewards of the environment we ask you to observe these birds from a distance so as not to disturb them. This is especially true for the nesting areas, as the eagles just want to protect and care for their young. If we respect them, their feeding and nesting areas, these eagles will hopefully consider Hanover Pond their home for a long, long time.

Upcoming QRWA Events �April is a busy month with the Annual Fish Stocking at Red Bridge, usually the 3rd week in April just prior to Opening Day for Fishing Season on the 17th. QRWA, along with the Meriden Land Trust and Meriden Conservation Commission will be at the Daffodil Festival at Hubbard Park, April 24-25. Earth Day Celebrations with take place in Hamden and North Haven both on April 24.

Please check the website for specific dates and times.

The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is a 501c3 organization whose mission is to restore the Quinnipiac for the health and enjoyment of all citizens and communities along its reach and to educate all students, families, individuals, businesses and governments to be informed stewards of the river.

We provide water activities, events in education, outreach, advocacy, scientific monitoring, conservation, restoration, recreation and public access to the watershed area. To learn more about the QRWA and future events please visit our website at www.qrwa.org.

Thank you for your support and remember your donations are tax deductable.

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!

Our Mother
Alyssa Duffourc

Mountains crumbling
Skies falling
Earth cracking
What is happening
To our mother earth and the people she cares for

No one knows why she is angry
Oh, But I do,
We have hurt our mother earth,
Now she is dying

Ice melting
People Dying
Children hurting
People crying

Too much hurt
Too much pain

STOP!
Stop the hurting
Stop the crying
Save our mother
Save our home
Help our mother!

We are the only ones who can
So what will you do?
Please don�t let her wilt
Don�t leave her to die.
Save our mother
For I know that I shall try

______________________________________________________________________________________To 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!

Love�s Perfect Alignment
By Diana Lewis
Chapter 1

Josie Foster raced across the meadow with her brother, Mark right behind her.
�That�s not fair,� he hollered as he galloped up beside her. �You left too quick.�
�You�re just a slow poke as usual,� stated Josie. They arrived at the barn as a wagon pulled up in their driveway. Pa wasn�t home so Mark dropped his horses reins and went to see the stranger.
�I�m looking for Miss Josephine Foster,� said the stranger.
�And who are you?� asked Mark.
�My name Jacob Hammond. Is she available for me to speak with her?� Josie had heard everything that the man had said and she walked forward.
�I am Josephine Foster. How can I help you,� she asked. He looked at her up and down because of the way she was dressed, with men�s pants and shirt.
�I would like to have a private word with you, if I may.� Curious about what he wanted to talk about she nodded and led the way to the house. Mark wanted to object but he knew it would be no use with his sister,

He was curious as well but he�s have to wait for her to tell him what it was all about.
�Come, we can use my father�s office.� They stepped in and shut the door,
�Is your father not here?�
�No, he�s away on a cattle drawn. He won�t be expected back till sometime next week.�
�Did he ever tell you that you were adopted?�
�Adopted? No, why?� He handed her a copy of her adoption papers and she looked at them. At first she didn�t want to believe it but with the adoption papers in her hands, she had to believe it.
�Because you were and your adopted mother has been looking for you for quite sometime. She would like to see you, if you will see her.�
�Is she planning to come here?�
�If you�d like or I could take you to her.�
�Where is she?�
�In Idaho, at the moment, on her way here but she lives in Montana.�
�When will she be here?�
�It shouldn�t be more than a week for her to get here.� Josie didn�t know what to think about all this. She was adopted by Frank Foster and now her birth mother wanted to see her. And with Papa being away, she knew he wouldn�t approve of this meeting. Maybe she should meet this woman herself.
�I think it might be best if I went to greet her as she comes, because if she comes when my father returns, there might be problems and I don�t want that. What are her plans when we do meet?�
�She would like you to return to Montana with her if you would consider it.�
�Alright, what should I bring with me?�
�That depends on whether you want to go to Montana or not.�
�Montana sounds intriguing. I probably will.�
�Then bring whatever you don�t want to leave behind. I just need to know how much it is so I get enough wagons and drivers.�
�I guess two should be plenty. I�ll not bring anything that isn�t definitely mine.�
�How long do you need to get ready to leave?�
�I think I can be ready to leave tomorrow.�
�Ten o�clock alright with you?�
�Fine, everything will be ready.� They rose from the chairs and Josie escorted Mr. Hammond to the door.
�What�s going on?� cried Mark.
�I�ll be leaving in the morning,� she simply stated.
�Leaving? What are you talking about?�
�Mark, did you know I was adopted?�
�No, that man told you that?�
�Yes, and he showed me the adoption papers. I�m going to see my birth mother.�
�Are you coming back?�
�Probably not. She wants me to go to Montana with her.�
�What�s Pa going to think?�
�Well, I�m hurt with him for not telling me I was adopted and I�m eighteen years old, so he can�t really stop me from leaving.�
�So, what do you want me to tell him when he comes back and you�re gone.�
�Nothing, I will write him a letter and you can give it to him when he gets home.� she stated. �But I need to get busy so I can be ready to leave in the morning.� She walked up the stairs to her room. She found a carpet bag in the closet and started packing her belongings. She pulled out a couple trunks that she spotted in the basement and brought them up and filled them as well. She found some empty boxes u in the attic and filled them as well. She brought open her piggy bank where she�s been saving every penny she got. She counted $200. That would help her get started where she was going.

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!

Local News and Events March 2010

2010-03-09T11:12:00.002-05:00

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!

Next STEPs: Support and Training for
Educators and Parents

Wednesday evenings: March 17th, 24th, 17th and April 7th from 6:00pm until 9:00pm at the Child Guidance Clinic, Inc located at 384 Pratt Street, Meriden, CT 06450-8627.

WANTED: PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS!
Do you need help understanding your child�s special education program? Would you like to help others learn about special education?

The Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC) is bringing our Next STEPs parent training series to Meriden. This training will help parents navigate the special education system and develop their skills to effectively participate in developing their child�s educational program. Once trained, parents may choose to volunteer to be part of CPAC�s statewide network of Parent Advisors.

If you are interested in registering for this program please call CPAC at 1-800-445-2722 or email cpac@cpacinc.org. Parents committed to increasing their knowledge of special education and becoming active participants in the educational planning for their children are encouraged to register.

The Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, Inc. (CPAC) is a statewide non-profit organization that offers information and support to families of children with any disability or chronic illness, birth through age 21. It is CPAC�s mission to support families in their efforts on behalf of their children with disabilities.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN�S CLUB ANNOUNCES
3rd ANNUAL TOUCH-A-TRUCK EVENT � TRUCKS WANTED

The Wallingford Junior Woman's Club will sponsor its 3rd Annual Touch-a-Truck on May 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Toyota Presents Oakdale Theatre, and trucks are needed. This is a hands-on activity for children and parents to experience their favorite big trucks up close by climbing into the driver�s seat, honking the horn, and pretending to steer.

WJWC invites local truck owners to provide trucks for display and touching. Truck owners must provide a current certificate of insurance, a truck attendant at all times, and a truck that may be touched and/or sat in. Truck owners may distribute family-friendly promotional materials with WJWC approval.

For more information, please call Ann Whitman, WJWC Touch-a-Truck Committee Co-Chairwoman, at 203-284-2376.

The Wallingford Junior Woman�s Club (WJWC) is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. www.cjw.org.

WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and is a non-profit organization that promotes educational, philanthropic, community service work and provides its members with opportunities for personal enrichment, leadership and social interaction. WJWC projects include the Townwide Spelling Bee and Children�s Area at Celebrate Wallingford, and partnerships with the League of Women Voters of Wallingford & Cheshire, Wallingford Symphony Orchestra, Wallingford Emergency Shelter, and American Red Cross. In addition, WJWC has participated in and donated to several state projects overseen by CJW, including the current state project, Covenant to Care for Children, Inc., which provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused or at-risk.

For more information about WJWC, call Jaime Bowen, Membership Chairwoman, at (203) 294-0017.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN�S CLUB ANNOUNCES
G.N.O. � GIRLS� NIGHT OUT AT JAKE�S TAVERN

G.N.O. � it�s a Girls� Night Out and a chance to Get to kNow Our club, the Wallingford Junior Woman�s Club � so join the fun with WJWC at Jake�s Tavern, 179 Center Street, Thursday, March 18, at 7 p.m. We will provide appetizers and an opportunity to meet women who are dedicated to community service in Wallingford; you purchase your own drinks.

The Wallingford Junior Woman�s Club (WJWC) is a non-profit civic and community service organization open to any Wallingford woman. WJWC�s diverse membership includes single women, stay-at-home moms, professionals, and retirees with a desire to improve the Wallingford community through volunteering their time and talents. The club provides members with opportunities for personal enrichment, and to improve leadership skills and form new and lasting friendships. More information is available by contacting Jaime Bowen, Membership, at 203-294-0017.

WJWC was incorporated in 1954 and is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt organization, and a member of the Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. www.cjw.org. WJWC projects include the annual Townwide Spelling Bee; the Children�s Game Area at Celebrate Wallingford; co-sponsoring Candidate�s Forum with the League of Women Voters; adopting a local family during the holidays; Cell Phones for Soldiers; the new Little Miss & Mister Wallingford Contest; and providing rehearsal snacks for the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra.

In addition, WJWC currently participates in the CJW state project, Covenant to Care for Children, Inc., which provides direct assistance to Connecticut children who are neglected, abused or at-risk.

Concert

Ismeros Arcok Ensemble will be performing at The Hungarian Community Club on Sunday March 28th at 7 pm. Ismeros Arcok's music can be characterized as mix of folk music, heavy metal, hard rock and jazz. Concert tickets are $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Dinner will be served at 6 pm for an additional $10. More information is available at our website: www.hccwallingford.org.

For reservations, please contact Louie (203) - 530-3557 or Linda (203) 634-0602. You can also email us at HCCofWallingford@gmail.com. The club is located at 147 Ward St, Wallingford.

Masonic Temple , Meriden World Famous Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner
with Lots of Homemade Pies

Coffee re/dcaf, Tea, Soda reg/diet free Fundraiser for Westwood Court #5 Order of Amaranth
Saturday, March 13th 2010 from 5 to 7 PM Masonic Temple 112 East Main Street Meriden, Connecticut ( use rear entrance ) Adults $12.00, Children 5 to 12 $5.00 Children under 5 yrs Free Come Out & Join Us for a GREAT Dinner !
_______________________________________________________________________________March Events at the Augusta!

Augusta Curtis Concert Band Rehearsals
7pm-9pm on Mondays Any age or level of playing can join us!Rehearsals held at Lincoln Middle School Centennial Road, Meriden, CT. Planned concerts for band are April 18th at Hubbard Park and July 1st at Rosa Ponselle Garden beside the ACCC.

Annual Appeal Feb. through April We need your support! Donations appreciated and you can donate online at www.curtiscultualcenter.org or mail donations to ACCC, P.O. Box 4173 175 East Main StreetMeriden, CT 06450

Cabernet & Caberet Fun-raiserPresented by Chorale CTFriday, March 12th, 2010 7pm-9pmChorale CT Fun-raiser

Travelogue:"Classic Italy; from the tip of her boot to the top of her thigh"Presented by Peter & Sharon BurchSunday, March 28th, 2010 at 3pmAdmission free, donations to the Center appreciated!Narrated slideshow.

Red Cross Blood DriveWednesday, March 31, 2010Join us for our Annual Blood drive at the Center .....1:30 pm to 7pm

All above events will be held at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center at 175 East Main Street in Meriden, CT. More information about these events and other upcoming events can be found on our website at www.curtisculturalcenter.org
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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!

"One Is Not The Loneliest Number"
By: Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer

Have you ever thought about adopting a dog or cat, but dismissed the whole idea of it, because you didn't think it would be fair to the animal to be by themselves as an only pet? Well, PLEASE reconsider! We have many animals that would fair much better as, "The One and Only." Just like humans, there are cats and dogs who are either to shy, have been abandoned, are not social, or are just to darn arrogant to get along with others, but need to be loved none the less. So, "YES" we do want you to adopt them by themselves. These animals would make great one-on-one pets.

As far as dogs go, Diamond (what a beauty) is a young, female, medium sized Bull Terrier, Sheppard Mix. Diamond was brought in, on an extremely busy day at the MHS, ready to give birth. She had a difficult time, because her babies were so big and she was just a young pup herself. With the assistance of the staff and volunteers, everything went well. Diamonds puppies flourished and went to good homes. Diamond has not been so fortunate and still resides at the shelter, waiting for her forever home. She is currently receiving obedience training and would need to continue this training after being adopted. This poor girl's life was so rushed, that it is her turn now to get the T.L.C. and training, to make her the best pet she can be. Since Diamond presently has issues with being around other dogs, we would love to place her in a one pet household. Could she be the dog for you?

Shayna is only 10 months old and is such a sweetheart. A female German Shepherd/Chow Mix that loves to play.The thing is, Shayna doesn't realize how big she is and likes to jump and be on your lap. Because she is so cute, people tend to let her. She needs someone that will stick to the training that she is currently receiving, so that she can learn the right way to behave and play. She is very smart and is catching on quickly. Won't you please consider adopting Shayna, as an only pet.

As you can imagine, our feline friend's don't want to spend their lives in a cage. So, as soon as they feel comfortable being around other cat's, then they are sprung and free to roam the main cat room. This is not the case if you are a scaredy cat or don't play well with others. These cat's are let out by staff and volunteers for short periods of time, so they can walk around a bit, but not so long as to stress them out. They are waiting to go to a nice home, where they can walk around without any worries. Some of these cats are, Jezebel, a beautiful DSH Calico, Kimba, a very shy, full figured female, black tabby, Peanut, a DSH black, female, Dumpster, a gorgeous DLH female, black kitty and Neal (who is desperately seeking a home) a medium hair, blk/wht, male kitty with sooo much love to give. They'll be waiting for you!

We also have a couple of events coming up. Please join us on Saturday, March 20th from 8-11 a.m., at the Meriden Grange, 504 Broad St. for a Pancake Breakfast. Tickets: Adults-$8, Children (under 10) -$4. They can be purchased at MHS or call Cindy from the Grange at (203)-237-4617, by the 10th. Our annual photos with the Easter Bunny, will be hosted by Pet Playhouse this year. The North Shore Animal adoption bus will also be at this event. So, please mark your calendars for March 27th, from 10-4p.m., location 1656 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike, Plantsville, CT. Hope to see you there!

If you would like to make a donation of any kind, whether it be food, cleaning supplies or monetary, are lobby is open from 8-6 p.m., everyday and we are open to the public for animal viewing from 12-6, Wednesday-Sunday.

Thank you and see you at the shelter!
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Wallingford Rotary Turns 87

On Wednesday evening February 24, 2010, the Wallingford Rotary celebrated 87 years with a gathering at Brother�s restaurant. This Sunday Rotary International will turn 105. As part of the Rotary celebration, each member made a donation to help eradicate Polio in developing countries. Happy Birthday Rotary, keep up the good work!

The Rotary Club of Wallingford is composed of a collection of dedicated men and women who are part of Rotary International. Rotary International is the world's first service club organization. Its more than 1.2 million members volunteer their time and talent to further the Rotary motto, Service Above Self.

Want to be a member or just want more information regarding Rotary? Visit our website at www.wallingfordrotary.org

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The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Meriden Chamber�s Marketing Committee has embarked on an exciting new testimonial campaign! The first of many testimonial boards was on display in the beginning of February at Meriden Schools Federal Credit Union chili cook off! Keep your eyes peeled for these boards that will be on display in different member locations throughout the area! We are looking forward to displaying them all at the Chamber�s 114th Annual Meeting on Thursday, April 8th at MountainRidge!

Speaking of the Annual Meeting, Dinner & Silent Auction, we�d like to congratulate the following businesses and individuals who will be recognized that evening with awards:

The recipient of the Eighteenth Annual Community Partnership Award, recognized for their extraordinary commitments to the Meriden Community is Larry Pelletier. - The recipient of the Fourteenth Annual Large Business Leadership Award recognized for outstanding private sector leadership in the Meriden Business Community is the Four Points Sheraton Meriden. - The recipient of the Ninth Annual Small Business Leadership Award recognized for outstanding private sector leadership in the Meriden Business Community is Bongiovanni Insurance & Financial, LLC. - The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is also pleased to announce that they will be awarding $8,000 to Meriden students in the form of the Sanford S. Shorr Education Awards. The students who were selected include: Returning College Student: Amber Jones (former Platt High School Graduate attending the Oral Roberts University); Lauren Andrea Gomez (graduating senior at Platt); Amanda Rivers (graduating senior at Platt); Ian T. Stankiewicz (graduating senior at Maloney). The Hispanic Member Outreach Committee of the Chamber raised funds for an additional 3 awards this year and the following students were selected for that award: Prisca Maebry (graduating senior at Mercy); Heather M. Vicenty (graduating senior at Sacred Heart); and Gabriella Reyes (graduating senior at Maloney). The Young Business Leaders group of the Chamber has raised funds for 1 Dan M. Hunter Community Service award this year which will be presented to Christina Ward (graduating senior at Platt).

We look forward to sharing MANY photos with you in the next issue � but the event IS OPEN to everyone in the community. Keep checking www.meridenchamber.com for pricing information, silent auction items, program time, format and more!

Become a FAN of Greater Meriden Chamber on Facebook! Join the over 100 Facebook Friends who are already FANS of the Greater Meriden Chamber!

The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is located at 3 Colony Street, Suite 301, Meriden, CT 06451. Ph.: 203.235.7901 / Fx.: 203.686.0172. Visit www.meridenchamber.com or email: info@meridenchamber.com

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HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE IS CELEBRATING OUR 2ND YEAR ANNIVERSARY IN MARCH! OUR THANKS TO ALL THAT HAVE SHOWN THEIR SUPPORT THROUGH THEIR DONATIONS, SERVICES AND PURCHASES. WE HAVE ALL MADE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS IN NEED IN THE COMMUNITY AS WELL AS THE CHRYSALIS INC. FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.

STOP IN MARCH 11TH(ON OUR ANNIVERSARY) AND ENJOY A PIECE OF CAKE, FREE GIFTS FOR THE CHILDREN PLUS TAKE 20% OFF ANYTHING IN THE STORE PRICED OVER $2.00!
OTHER SALES HAPPENING IN MARCH ON THE FOLLOWING DATES:
WEDNESDAY MARCH 17TH- ST. PATRICKS DAY-
ALL PAPERBACK BOOKS BUY 1 GET 1 FREE.
VIDEOS ALL 50 CENTS EACH
ALL SMALL HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES PRICED OVER $2.00 ARE 20% OFF!
PLUS OUR REGULAR $5.00 BAG DAY SALE ON UNTAGGED CLOTHING
THURSDAY MARCH 18TH- 20% OFF ALL JEWELRY PRICED OVER $2.00
ALL GLASSWARE, KNICK KNACKS PRICED OVER $2.00 ARE 20% OFF!
THURSDAY MARCH 25TH- BUY 1 GET 1 HALF OFF ON ALL BRAND NEW DIFFERENT DEPARTMENT STORE TAGGED CLOTHING.
ALL PICTURES PRICED OVER $2.00 HALF OFF!
REMEMBER EVERY WEDNESDAY IS FILL A BAG WITH CLOTHING(EXCEPTIONS DO APPLY) FOR ONLY $5.00 WITH NO LIMIT ON HOW MANY BAGS YOU CAN PURCHASE!
WE ARE LOCATED AT 22 NORTH TURNPIKE ROAD IN WALLINGFORD. WE GLADLY ACCEPT CASH, VISA, DEBIT OR MASTERCARD. OUR STORE HOURS ARE TUESDAY- SATURDAY 9A.M.- 5P.M.. DONATIONS OF FURNITURE OR LARGE APPLIANCES IN GOOD, CLEAN WORKING CONDITION ARE IN NEED AND LOCAL PICK UPS ARE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE.OUR TRUCK DRIVER WILL HAVE THE LAST SAY IF AN ITEM WILL BE ACCEPTED. DONATIONS ARE ALSO ACCEPTED AT THE STORE BASED ON AVAILABLE ROOM AND MUST BE BROUGHT TO THE STORE BY 4P.M. PLEASE CALL AHEAD FIRST.
WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING WINTER CLOTHING. PLEASE REMEMBER US WHEN YOU ARE NO LONGER IN NEED OF OUTSIDE PLAY TOYS, BIKES, WAGONS, OUTSIDE FURNITURE OR OTHER SPRING/SUMMER ITEMS.
WATCH FOR OUR APRIL BARGAINS IN THE PEOPLES PRESS IN APRIL!
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Flower Sale

The East Wallingford Volunteer Fire Department will be holding their annual Easter Flower Sale at the Firehouse on 2 Kondracki Lane on the following dates:
Thursday April 1 from 5 PM to 8 PM
Friday April 2 from 8 AM to 8 PM
Saturday April 3 from 8 AM to 8 PM
Sunday 8 AM to Noon
We will have a wide assortment of quality Hanging Baskets, perennials and annuals.

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The Wallingford Junior Football League 2010 Registration Dates

Saturday, May 15, 2010, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Saturday, June 5, 2010, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

At the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department

Save the date for
The Second Annual Wallingford Vikings Golf Tournament Friday, June 25, 2010 The Tradition Golf Club

More information to come in the coming weeks

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PASSPORT DAY IN THE USA � MARCH 27, 2010

The Connecticut Passport Agency is hosting a Passport Fair in Norwalk, Connecticut on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm to provide passport information to U.S. citizens and to accept passport applications. The Connecticut Passport Agency is joining the Department of State in celebrating Passport Day in the USA 2010, a national passport acceptance and outreach event.

U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering or re-entering the United States by air. U.S. citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and sea ports of entry must present a passport book, passport card, or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government.

Information on the cost and how to apply for a U.S. passport is available at travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens may also obtain passport information by phone, in English and Spanish, by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.

Event: Passport Day in the USA Passport Fair
Date: Saturday, March 27, 2010
Time: 10:00 am � 3:00 pm
Where: Connecticut Passport Agency 50 Washington Street Norwalk, CT 06854

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GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE, SOLD! - GREAT BARGAINS AT TEMPLE B�NAI ABRAHAM�S MARCH MADNESS GOODS AND SERVICES AUCTION

Back by popular demand, Temple B�nai Abraham will hold it�s March Madness Goods and Services Auction on March 13, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. at 127 East Main Street in Meriden offering great bargains to please every member of the family. Some of the items to be auctioned include: gift certificates to some of your favorite restaurants, an overnight stay at the Four Points Sheraton, passes to wonderful area attractions, a round of golf at Lyman Orchards, an American Girl Doll (valued at $120), and so much more! These are just a few of the fantastic items to be auctioned. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. for a preview and silent auction, followed by the live auction at 7:45 p.m. Admission is only $5 per person. We will also have a 50-50 drawing. Refreshments and drinks are available during the auction and dessert and coffee during intermission. For more information contact Linda Caplan at 203-235-2581.
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Sheehan Class of 85 Reunion Planned

Attention Mark T. Sheehan High School Class of 1985 grads: The 25th class reunion is planned for Friday, November 26, 2010. Additional information can be found online at: www.MTS85.info. Alumni are encouraged to register for reunion updates and information while visiting the site.

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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Spring Luncheon

The Meriden Intermediates Club will hold a Spring Luncheon on, Wednesday, March 10. The event will be held at the North Italian Club at 43 Thorpe Avenue in Meriden from 12:00 to 3:00. Guest speakers will be Scott Haney and Kara Sundlun. Kara and Scott are co-hosts of the TV show, Better Connecticut, which airs daily on Channel 3 at 10:00 a.m.

Tickets are $10.00 and may be purchased from Carol Bonaiuto at (203) 634-1855.
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Class of 1985 - Orville Platt High School 25th Reunion
We will be having our Reunion July 24th, 2010 RSVP by May 31, 2010
Anyone interested in attending can contact Ida Zimmer (860) 621-0267 or email idazimmer@yahoo.com. You can register on classmates.com or join us on facebook.com for more information.
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At the next meeting of the Wallingford Garden Club award winning designer Kymrie A. Zaslow will lecture about and also create fresh floral arrangements.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 9 in the First Congrgational Church meeting room. The program will begin at 1:00 p.m. preceded by a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. The meeting is open to the public for a fee of $5.

Zaslow began her floral design career in 1991 and has worked in shops in Ohio and Connecticut. Her experience covers retail flower shops, mass market floral management, design education, and the handling of fresh and permanent florals. Zaslow's extensive industry experience as well as her memberships in the Federated Garden Clubs of CT, West Hartford and Manchester Garden Clubs have given her the opportunity to share her knowledge as an educator, lecturer, and guest designer. In April 2005 she became a National Garden Club Accredited judge. She has designed live on WVIT Channel 30 and has had her designs and ideas published in CT Bride, Hartford and Living in West Hartford magazines. Zaslow was honored in 2008 with the Federated Garden Clubs of Ct Tribute Award in Design for her achievements and contributions in design.
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The Hungarian Community Club is now accepting orders for Home Style Sausage/Kolbasz and Stuffed Cabbage. The sausage/Kolbasz is $5 per pound and the Stuffed Cabbage is $16 per dozen. Orders will be accepted until Wednesday March 17, 2010 and no late orders will be accepted. Pickup is Saturday March 27, 2010 at the club, 147 Ward ST, Wallingford, from noon � 2:00 pm. Please bring containers for the stuffed cabbage. To place an order, please contact: Linda at (203)634-0602 or Barbara at (203)269-9768. Orders can also be emailed to HCCofWallingford@gmail.com

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The E & R U.C.C will sponsor a trip to Mohegan Sun, on Saturday, April 24, 2010.9am departure from the Wallingford Senior Center and return around 5:30pm.Advance Ticket Purchase only. To reserve your seat ASAP make out check to:
The Evangelical & Reformed U.C.C. and mail to: E. Tierney, P.O.Box 3, Wallingford, Ct. 06492.Ticket price: $30.00 inludes $30.00 casino bonus package.
All proceeds to benefit our April Fundraiser
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Wallingford Family YMCA hires NEW Aquatics Director

The Wallingford Family YMCA is pleased to announce the hiring of Lisa Hoover, as our new Aquatics Director. Lisa will join our YMCA family on Monday, March 1, 2010 and work with Keith Cargan, Aquatics Coordinator, myself and the Aquatics staff for a smooth transition of department leadership. We would also like to thank the YMCA search committee and Management staff for their time and effort devoted to this tough decision.

Lisa has been working in the YMCA movement for over 14 years with experience in all aspects of aquatic programming, membership development, staff development and training, establishing aquatic, safety and risk management standards as well as managing special events. Lisa most recently was Senior Program Director for the Stratford Family YMCA. We welcome Lisa her enthusiasm, experience and passion to our YMCA.

Lisa is a graduate of Eastern Connecticut State University. She has also been recently honored as a member of the YMCA of the USA Aquatic task force and Association of YMCA professionals Chapter 2 Membership chair. Lisa is certified as an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor, Babysitter�s Training Instructor and Lifeguard Certified. She is also a representative on the Connecticut YMCA�s Membership and Program Networks as Aquatics and Membership Liaison.

Lisa is married, has one child and resides in Wallingford, Connecticut.

Please join me in welcoming Lisa to the team of the Wallingford Family YMCA. She can be reached at lshoov@aol.com.
Regards,
Sean Doherty
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Nunsense
by Dan Goggin presented Cabaret Dinner Style
You provide the food, we provide the fun!
Fridays & Saturdays March 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 at 7:30pm Sunday Matinees March 7 & 14 at 2:00pm
Reservations Required - Make Yours TODAY, visit www.castlecraig.org or call 203-634-6922. Admission $15
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Cabaret & Cabernet

Join Chorale Connecticut on Friday, March 12th, at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center on East Main Street in Meriden from 7 to 9 PM for its annual fundraiser �Cabaret & Cabernet,� and enjoy an evening of wine tasting, hors d�oeuvres and some special entertainment to be provided by members of Chorale Connecticut. Mayor Mike will be the emcee for the evening.

Come and support the Chorale and enjoy an evening of wine and song. Tickets may be obtained from Chorale members or by calling (860)621-1653. Suggested donation is $25 per person. More information is also available at choralect.org.

__________________________________________________________ Beth Israel Synagogue in Wallingford

Beth Israel Invites the Community to Free 2nd Night SederBeth Israel will again host its wildly popular free 2nd night seder on March 30th at 6:00 P.M., open to the Jewish community. Last year�s mouth-watering meals were better than any restaurant. The atmosphere was festive, friendly and educational. Many new friends were made � young and old. Please make reservations early � our room can only seat 80 and last year we had to turn people away. Please contact Mimi Bloch at 203-949-0651 or by email to mimibloch@aol.com to make your reservation. This will be a free event (donations are always welcome).

2. Beth Israel Synagogue Reaches Out to Ashlar VillageIn January of 2010 Beth Israel congregants Beryl and Mimi Bloch began leading monthly Shabbat services at Ashlar Village in Wallingford. "The program has been very well received by the residents," says Mrs. Bloch. "As the majority of the residents there no longer have their cars and have not had the chance to attend Jewish Services in quite some time, they were very appreciative of our being there. Beryl and I have made the commitment to continue to lead the services there as long as the residents are willing to attend." The next service at Ashlar Village will be held on March 12th at 2:00 P.M.

3. "Judaica Exchange" for Guatemalan JewsDo you have any extra Judaica and ritual objects looking for a good home? A fledgling congregation in Guatemala City called Casa Hillel can put them to good use -- and Beth Israel Synagogue in Wallingford is helping them out.Casa Hillel is a small synagogue composed of a few families that have embraced Judaism as Jews-by-choice. Its story was highlighted in Hadassah magazine in 2008: http://tinyurl.com/as2mx4Spearheading this collection effort is Rabbi Jacques Cukierkorn � the multi-lingual spiritual leader of the New Reform Temple in Kansas City � who is mentoring Casa Hillel and other small congregations across Latin America. He calls this donation program the �Judaica Exchange.�Here are a few words from Rabbi Cukierkorn:This program came into existence out of the need of developing congregations in Central and South America to get Judaica for their use in observing Jewish holidays and rituals.Many of the people I work with either don't have the financial means or sometimes even the possibility of buying Judaica. Since many of them are Jews by choice, they also do not have Jewish family heirlooms. Thus, I came up with the idea of asking people to donate their unwanted new or used Judaica objects. When I travel to Latin America, I carry these items with me and they are very much appreciated.I suggest that you avoid collecting any breakable items and items that use electricity because they will not work over there. Also, please don�t send books that are not in Spanish.The best way to get the items to the people that need them, I must carry them with me on my flight. The cost is $100 per bag/box from the airline. If you are able to help defray that cost, it would be most appreciated.Sincerely,Rabbi Jacques Cukierkornrabbi94@hotmail.com www.rabbicukierkorn.comDonated items may be dropped off at Beth Israel Synagogue. For further info, feel free to contact Deb Nason, Beth Israel Synagogue, dnason@c4sb.com, 203-414-1600
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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!

FILIPEK FAMILY TENNIS SCHOLARSHIP
IN MEMORY OF WINTON S. FILIPEK, SR.

The Filipek Family is pleased to support student athletes in central Connecticut through a series of $250 - $1,000 scholarships, intended to honor the life of Winton S. Filipek, Sr. A well-rounded athlete in the Meriden area, it was tennis that held a special place in his heart. The Filipek family has presented $28,200 to deserving student-athletes in the past four years.

Applications can be obtained on line at: www.ymcafilipektennis.com
The completed scholarship package must be mailed NO LATER THAN April 15 to:

Mr. Winton R. Filipek, Jr.
230 Copper Ridge Road
Southington, CT 06489

Any questions contact Wint Filipek @ 860-621-5655/wrfilipek@hotmail.com

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Hi Friends,
It is my pleasure to announce our upcoming Bear Silent Auction to raise funds for the Salvation Army in Meriden! A free bear will be available at the end of February for those who wish to dress a bear for the auction. Call or email us to request your bear or for more information! Thanks for you assistance in spreading the news!

In His Service,
Captain Maria Stephenson Corps Officer/Pastor Meriden Corps Tel: 203-235-6532 Fax: 203-639-0422

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25th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction

The 25th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction will be held on Tuesday, June 1, 2010, at the Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, Connecticut. The special anniversary celebration will feature many famous sports figures including Jim Calhoun and Sparky Anderson. This year the recipient of the Saint Francis Award will be George Grand. Mr. Grand is the former play by play television announcer for the Cincinnati Reds and ESPN�s first SportsCenter sportscaster.

Jim Calhoun, University of Connecticut Head Basketball Coach, will present the Jim Calhoun Community Service Award to Emmy Award winning broadcast journalist, Al Terzi. Mr. Terzi is a Channel 3 EyeWitness News anchor.

The Silent Auction will begin at 5:30 pm. Program and dinner will start at 6:30 pm. For more information call (203) 237-8084 or visit the web site www.flcenter.org.

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SOUTH MERIDEN BASEBALL
Youth Sports Resale

DON�T THROW IT OUT � DONATE YOUR CHILDS BASEBALL EQUIPMENT, CLEATS GENTLY USED CLOTHING TO THE LEAGUE.

Kids grow 'Oh So Fast'. Kids who are involved in sports usually outgrow their sports uniforms and accessories after one or two seasons. Seasonal resale events are a great way to earn extra cash for the SMYL League and purchase gently used kids clothing and accessories and at affordable prices.

SMYL - YSC offers you two simple ways to recycle your child's outgrown sports equipment and accessories and help the league.

All you have to do is do is bring your unwanted children�s sports items to Gina Pellegrino/Rob Mirabello at sign ups or contact us for drop off information. We will set the price, we do the work by setting up a �consignment sale� in early spring. We will also have them listed on the classified section of your SMYL website www.smbaseball.com

The consignment events are scheduled for early spring and summer. We will have lists of items at our meetings as well.

Please call with any questions Gina @ 2036318776 or Rob M. @ 2036312145.
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The Wallingford Historical Society will be hosting a free program on Wednesday, March 17. Dan DeLuca, author of The Old Leatherman will talk about the tramp who traveled a circuit between the Connecticut and Hudson Rivers. Copies of the book will be for sale and Mr. DeLuca will be signing them. The program begins at 7:30 pm at the First Baptist Church, 114 North Main St. Refreshments provided. All are welcome.
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Jim Backes Memorial Golf Tournament

The Wallingford Rotary is hosting its 21st annual Jim Backes Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, May 24th at The Farms Country Club in Wallingford. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club.

Over several years the Wallingford Foundation has donated to many local community
organizations, including the Children�s Reference Room at the Wallingford Library, the Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club, Master�s Manna, the YMCA Teen House, the Thanksgiving Community Day Dinner, the Homeless Shelter and the Fuel Assistance Program, just to name a few. The outreach of the Wallingford Foundation has also touched the international community and shipped an ambulance, generator and medical supplies to the Good Samaritan Hospital in the Dominican Republic.

For information regarding the golf tournament, contact jonathan.kaplan@edwardjones.com

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The CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center in Wallingford, a non profit organization, is
hosting its fourth annual Run for Autism on Sunday, May 2, 2010. This 5K Run will take
place on the private running field at Choate Rosemary Hall HS in Wallingford,
8:30 AM . Cash prize of $100 for the top overall finisher. High School students can
attain community service hours by soliciting donations and competing in the race.
Fee: $30 adults, $15 students through grade 12.

Registration form can be obtained by visiting our website, www.ctautismwalk.com

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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2010 Memorial Day Parade
To all, This is the first reminder for the 2010 Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony for the City of Meriden. I want you to put it on your calendar now and save the date to pay honor to our deceased Veterans.

Who: The United Veterans Council of Meriden, CT and the 2010 Memorial Day Parade Committee

What: 2010 Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony............ Parade theme this year is "The Forgotten War?", a tribute to the Korean War and its' Veterans

Where: Parade will form up at Washington Park on Liberty Street and the adjoining area side streets between 9:00 and 9:59 a.m. Parade route is West on Liberty St. turning left onto Cottage St., continuing to East Main St.turning right and continuing westward down to the Meriden City Hall area. A Memorial Day. Service (45 minutes) of ceremony, patriotic music, speeches and prayer will commence at 11:00 or immediately following the parade.

When: MONDAY, May 31, 2010, Parades steps of at 10:00 a.m. sharp. and

Why: to pay honor to our deceased Veterans. Originally Memorial Day was designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form or ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.

Please alert all of the good citizens of Meriden and South Meriden, all of the Civic groups, the Churches and all of the Schools, Public and Parochial, Girl Scouts of America and the Boy Scouts of America of this important free event. Our committee will be attempting to contact as many of these personnel as possible over the coming 5 months. Please feel free to spread this invite to all that you come into contact. PS: Volunteers are needed on the committee and can contact me on my cell 203 631 3906 or can email me your contact information.

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SEE THE WORLD THROUGH AN ANIMAL�S EYES WITH CRITTERCAM INVENTOR GREG MARSHALL ON MARCH 19
Event is part of new �Faces of Our Planet� series, created by Sea Research Foundation, National Geographic Live and Garde Arts Center
MYSTIC, Conn. (February 23, 2010) � This March, experience life from an animal�s point of view during an evening with Crittercam inventor Greg Marshall at the Garde Arts Center on March 19 at 7:30 p.m. The event is part of the new �Faces of Our Planet� series, created by Sea Research Foundation, National Geographic Society and the Garde Arts Center to reveal the mysteries and discoveries of the world�s human, animal and geographic faces.

The five-part series consists of film, live performance and multimedia presentations � all at the nationally-recognized Garde Arts Center at 325 State St., New London. Greg Marshall�s presentation, titled �A Wild Point of View,� marks the third event in the series.

Marshall, a biologist and National Geographic filmmaker, will share his view of the world through the Crittercam, a device he invented in the 1980s while snorkeling in Belize. As he observed a small suckerfish that had attached itself to a shark, he imagined the fish�s unique perspective and came up with the idea of attaching a small video camera to an animal that would shift the point of view from researcher to subject.

Since then, the Crittercam has revolutionized marine biology while producing never-before-seen glimpses into the animal world. Marshall and his team have refined the device seven times, making it smaller, lighter and more powerful and expanding its use to more than 30 marine species, from great white sharks and sperm whales to emperor penguins and seals, as well as land animals. Crittercam footage has been seen in numerous films, including �March of the Penguins.�

Suitable for ages 10 and up, Marshall�s presentation will cover the invention and evolution of the Crittercam and will include video clips that show the world from an animal�s perspective. Marshall will also reveal how the Crittercam has changed scientists� and researchers� understanding of animals and the threats they face in the wild.

Future �Faces of Our Planet� events include presentations by Arctic photographer Paul Nicklen on April 16 and famed oceanographer Dr. Robert Ballard on May 14. For more details on these events and the entire series, visit searesearch.org or call (860) 572-5955.

WHAT: Multimedia presentation by Greg Marshall, the inventor of the Crittercam. The event is part of the new �Faces of Our Planet� event series, created by Sea Research Foundation, National Geographic Society and the Garde Arts Center.

WHEN: Friday, March 19 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

WHERE: Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London, CT 06320

TICKETS: $24, Mystic Aquarium members - $20. VIP tickets - $54 (includes admission to pre-show reception with Greg Marshall at 6 p.m.)

For a complete list of ticket options, including discount packages, visit the Garde Arts Center Box Office at 325 State St., New London, or call (860) 444-7373 ext.1. Single tickets are available at the Garde Arts Center Box Office and online at gardearts.org. Special pricing is available for students, groups and Mystic Aquarium members.

About Sea Research Foundation, Inc.Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Learning are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a private, non-profit 501(c)3 organization. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration.

About Garde Arts Center
Founded in 1985, the Garde Arts Center was created to save and transform the historic Garde theatre into a non-profit regional center for the performing arts and education in the heart of downtown New London, serving greater Southeastern Connecticut, a region rich in geographic, economic, ethnic and cultural diversity. The Garde owns and operates the recently restored 1,450-seat Garde Theatre, a historic movie/vaudeville house built in 1926 and the new 130-seat Oasis Room.

About National Geographic Live!
National Geographic Live is the live events division of the National Geographic Society, featuring live concerts, films, and dynamic presentations by today's leading explorers, scientists, filmmakers, and photographers covering a wide range of topics including: exploration and adventure; wildlife and habitat conservation; natural phenomena; and relevant issues such as climate change. Proceeds from speaker series ticket sales help fund future National Geographic initiatives in field research, exploration, and education. For more information visit www.nglive.org.

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Town News and Events March 2010

2010-03-09T11:07:00.000-05:00

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Mayor�s Corner - Meriden

This month has us thinking about the arrival of spring which officially takes place on March 20th this year. �Spring Fever� takes over as we shake off a cold, snowy winter and welcome the sunny, warm days of spring. There is a renewed energy in the air.

The Mayor� Office is planning a number of spring initiatives and events to cleanup and beautify our city, showcase Meriden businesses, and have some fun!

On Saturday, May 15, we will host the Annual Mayor�s City Cleanup Day. We encourage residents, civic groups, and other organizations to join us for Meriden�s cleanup day. A free cookout at the Hub will finish off the day for the participants.

A new initiative to encourage and recognize area businesses for keeping their sidewalks clean will be launched as well. Official certificates will be awarded to participating businesses. The Flower Barrel Program will also swing into action along our Main Streets.

A �Faces and Places� program will showcase small business owners on our City Website and highlight their business presence in our community.

And finally, on Wednesday, June 2 there will be an Italian Night at Hubbard Park. This will feature live band performances of the music of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennet, and Dean Martin for listening and dancing pleasure. Pizza, Italian meatballs and sausages, and Italian Ice will be available for attendees.

More details on these events and activities will follow. Here�s to Spring!

Mike Rohde - Mayor of Meriden

Mayor�s Corner Wallingford

Dear Friends:

First, on behalf of the Town of Wallingford, we extend our Congratulations to Andy Reynolds and the People�s Press in celebration of their 125th issue � March 2010. You and your staff have done an outstanding job and we commend you for your efforts.

The Town of Wallingford is very excited to be one of six towns in the State of Connecticut selected by the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation to participate in the Statewide Pioneering Communities Initiative. The Activate America--Pioneering Healthy Communities initiative is addressing the issue of childhood obesity by promoting better lifestyles through strategies that will result in increased physical activity and healthier eating by children.

Coordinated by the Wallingford Family YMCA and in cooperation with various Town Departments and local agencies, a community action plan is being developed. Partners in this work include the Departments of Park and Recreation, Education Department, Health Department and the Youth and Social Services Department. Agencies involved in the planning process include the United Way of Meriden and Wallingford, the Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club and Mid-State Medical Center. Examples of existing programs for children that focus on activity and healthy eating in Wallingford include the YMCA�s �Fit To Go� program for middle school youth and the �KidsMarathon� program held at Cook Hill Elementary School.

We are proud to be a part of the Activate America�Pioneering Healthy Communities initiative and look forward to helping the children in our community enjoy a healthier and more active way of life.
Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor

WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER

WSC GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
Looking for a gift for your special senior? Consider purchasing a Wallingford Senior Center Gift Certificate for a family member or friend. Our gift certificates, which are available at the front desk, may be used toward senior center classes, trips, special events, and Lake View Caf� meals.

HATS & GLOVES TEA PARTY featuring THE VICTORIAN LADY
Wednesday, March 10, 2:00 PM
Wear your fanciest hat and your daintiest gloves (if you have them!) and bring your favorite tea cup. Be entertained as �The Victorian Lady� performs her one-woman show about life in the 1860�s. Her authentic costumes and informative presentation are always a Must See! Classic High Tea refreshments will follow the show. Prizes will be awarded for hats and tea cups! Tickets are on sale: $5.00 Members; $7.00 Non-members.

OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF WALLINGFORD LUNCHEON
Wednesday, March 24, 1:00 PM
In celebration of National Women�s History Month, the Wallingford Senior Center will recognize several local women for their many contributions to our community. The Outstanding Women of Wallingford Luncheon and Award Ceremony will be held March 24 in the Great Room. This year�s honorees include State Representative Mary G. Fritz, Lillian Blake, Carolyn Massoni, and Town Councilor Rosemary Rascati. The Wallingford Garden Club will be honored as well. A delicious grilled chicken breast luncheon, key note address, and award presentations are all part of this very special event. Tickets are $5.00 per person and are on sale through March 19. The first 100 people to purchase a ticket will receive a fabulous book celebrating women!

SHERRILL DOUGLAS STARS IN A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO PATSY CLINE
�CRAZY �BOUT PATSY�
Saturday, April 17, 7:30 PM
Don�t miss this incredible tribute to Patsy Cline featuring Sherrill Douglas and her outstanding band. The show features all of Patsy�s great hits including Crazy, Walking after Midnight, I Fall to Pieces, Blue Moon of Kentucky, Sweet Dreams of You, You Belong to Me, Tennessee Waltz and many more! The Wallingford Senior Center is pleased to present a show that has sold out in theaters across the country. Tickets are $10.00 per person and are available at the front desk.

9TH ANNUAL SHOWCASE OF ART
April 8 � 10, 2010
Display your artwork and original creations at the Wallingford Senior Center�s 9th Annual Showcase of Art & Talent, which will be held in conjunction with the Jordan Abeshouse Memorial Student Art Show, Thursday through Saturday, April 8 -10. Last year this joint show attracted hundreds of local residents and provided a wonderful opportunity for public exposure to our members� artwork. Please sign up by March 26 to participate.

2010 GOLF LEAGUE
Our Coed Golf League, held at Miner Hills Golf Course, will begin its 11th season in May. This year, there will be one sixteen-week session, running from May 18 through August 31. The cost for play and the final week cookout is $235.00 for members and $240.00 for non-members. Sign-up will begin in May. Additional details will follow.

DAILY ACTIVITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM
Did you know that the Wallingford Senior Center offers a small structured, social-model day program designed for seniors with memory impairment? We offer companionship and support, developed and supervised by a Certified Recreation Therapist, an assistant, and many helpful volunteers. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Transportation is provided for Wallingford residents and is handicapped accessible. The daily fee includes participation in the program, lunch, snacks, out-trips, and live musical entertainment at the center. A sampling of programs offered include: News and Views, Word Games, Craft Corner, Pet Therapy, Spiritual Circle, Bocce, Tee Time Golf, Sing-A-Longs, Card Games, Baking/Cooking, and Daily Chair Exercise. Eligibility is based on the physical, mental, and social functioning of the prospective participant. If you know someone in need of socialization and guidance throughout the day and experiencing mild memory impairment, please contact Melinda Welch, D.A.I. Coordinator, for more information at: 203.265.7753 Ext 205.

SOCIAL SERVICES

MEDICATION SAFETY � NOT EVERY PILL IS PERFECT!
Monday, March 22
10:30 AM
Everyone has a medicine cabinet filled with pills, cr�mes, and lotions. At this month�s To Your Health! program by the VNA of Wallingford, you�ll learn why the medicine cabinet is NOT a good place to store medications, as well as other safety tips about topics like shelf life and cutting pills in half. Please sign up to attend.

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING CONNPACE
Please be aware that if you do not renew your ConnPACE when it is due, you will not be able to re-enroll until November 15th. This is due to changes that have been made in the ConnPACE program. New enrollment in the ConnPACE Program will be limited to November 15th through December 31st. A few exceptions do apply. You will be able to join ConnPACE 31 days after turning 65 or after becoming eligible for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or State Supplement Insurance (SSI).

WALLINGFORD ELDERLY NUTRITION INFORMATION
The Town of Wallingford is able to provide meals to seniors who meet the criteria. Call the Wallingford Program Planning Department at 203-294-2060 for more information.

FOOD PANTRIES IN WALLINGFORD
Need a little help with your food bill? Listed below are the names, addresses, and times you can visit.

�Angel Food Ministries: Get $75.00 worth of food for $30.00. See member interest table at the center, or call 203-284-8975 for additional information.

�Master�s Manna: 46 North Plains Road (in back). ID required (Photo ID, Birth Certificate or medical card). Distribution times: Tuesday & Thursday, 9-12; Fridays, 4-8 p.m.

�Good News Food Pantry: 46 John Street (Good News Church). Distribution time: Wednesday, 11:00 a. m. � 2:00 p.m.

�Local churches: Call your church to find out if there is a food pantry available.

CT MONEY SCHOOL PROGRAMS
CT Money School continues to provide educational programs to seniors. Below are two programs which provide ongoing education.

?On Your Own Again
Friday, March 12, 10:00 a.m. � 11:00 a.m.
Divorce and losing a spouse is very emotionally trying. Even under the best circumstances, certain financial steps need to be taken. This class explores the financial issues you need to consider if you find yourself suddenly single due to divorce or widowhood. To register for this program please call 203-265-7753

MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM
The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium. Income limits for a single person range from $1778.91 to $2091.67. For a couple, the income limits range from $2393.55 to $2816.67. There is no asset limit. If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Income verification is all that is necessary. This includes gross Social Security benefit (gross is before the $96.50 is taken out of the check), pension, dividends, interest, rental income, gross wages, etc. To schedule an appointment for completing the application, please call (203) 265 7753.

BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, March 16, 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 265 7753 now to schedule an appointment.

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: $1,669.00 month �Couple Income: $2,246.00 month

For more information or to schedule an appointment to apply for this program, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at 265 7753.

VISIT our website at www.WLFDSENIORCTR.COM!

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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 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver�s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Caf�. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!

On Wednesday, March 10 at 10:30 AM Wells Fargo/Wachovia Bank is sponsoring an informative program at the Senior Center. Attorney E. Jack Shorr will speak on �Estate Planning and Power of Attorney�, Ted Bell, Director of Sales and Marketing for Hancock Pharmacy, will discuss �Special Services Available for Seniors at Independent Pharmacies� and Joseph Ferraro, Certified Reverse Mortgage Consultant for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, will cover �Good Stories about Seniors who Benefited from a Reverse Mortgage�. Be sure not to miss this program about services for seniors with a variety of topics designed to meet your needs! The program will be held in the first floor meeting room and refreshments will be served.

The Senior Center has been designated as a Questionnaire Assistance Center by the U.S. Census Bureau to answer any questions you may have about the 2010 census. A census staff person will be here daily, except Fridays, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon starting March 22 until April 19. They can provide guides in other languages, help in filling out the form, answer questions about privacy and confidentiality issues and provide other services as needed related to Census 2010. If you have any questions about Census 2010 this is the place to ask!

The �Move and Soothe� gentle movement class taught by Susan Sandel, Dance/Movement Therapist, will resume on Tuesday afternoon March 16 at 12:30 PM in the mezzanine. New participants are welcome and should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and sneakers or rubber-soled shoes.

Appointments for free AARP Income Tax Assistance are still available at the Senior Center. The service is offered in the mezzanine each Wednesday until April 7. Also, there are openings for the AARP Driver Safety Class on April 21 & 23 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Appointments for both services may be made by calling (203) 237-0066 or stopping in the front office.

The Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut is seeking people 100 years of age or older, and those celebrating their 100th birthday in 2010, to be honored at the 24th annual Centenarian Luncheon on May 5, 2010. The event is held each year at the Jewish Community Center in Woodbridge and is free for the centenarian and an escort. Last year 27 centenarians attended this special event. For further information or to register call Janiss Fowler at AASCC at 203.785.8533.

For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director

The Meriden Fire Department Local 1148 would like to remind everyone that Sunday March 14th at 2:00 am is the end of Daylight Saving Time. Don�t forget to change your clocks an hour ahead and change the batteries in your smoke detectors. Working smoke detectors save lives!
________________________________________________________________________

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Special Health and Wellness March 2010

2010-03-09T10:38:00.002-05:00

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Making The Connection:
Good Nutrition Today, Good Health Tomorrow
By Lisa Zola, MS, MSN, APRN-BC

We have all heard the expression, �You are what you eat.� However, despite this very simple truth, most people do not make that connection. But how could it not be? One would not put diesel gasoline in a car that required unleaded fuel, because then the car would not run properly. The food we eat is the fuel for our body. If we put in unhealthy fuel, the body cannot perform properly, which ultimately leads to disease. On the other hand, if you feed your body good fuel, it is able to ward off disease. Not only that, but you feel better, are more vibrant and have more energy.

Eating healthy is certainly not without its challenges, especially with all the food choices that are available. We are constantly being bombarded with messages that tell us to eat this, not that. Quite frankly, it is very confusing for most people. What we think may be healthy or all natural may actually be loaded with chemicals, preservatives and artificial colors and flavors that wreak havoc in our bodies. In addition, convenience foods are often touted as being cheaper than healthy foods as well as being quick and easy. Manufactured foods are intentionally engineered to be addicting. The food industry is a business, with the bottom line being profit and what sells, not concern for your health.

Since the industrialization of farming and with the advent of big food manufacturers, we have strayed very far from the way our ancestors ate. Back in those days, people never heard of or ate food that came out of a box. These days, people are actually putting toxic foods into their bodies, sometimes without even knowing: foods that contain pesticides, chemicals, artificial ingredients, preservatives, refined and added sugars, refined grains, sodium, and hydrogenated fats. All of these can lead to diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, liver disease, digestive disorders, allergies, behavioral problems, learning disabilities, birth defects, migraines, hormonal disorders, metabolic disorders, and high blood pressure. And this is just the short list! Many of these diseases are reaching, or are already at epidemic levels, and are continuing to rise despite all of the advances in modern medicine that have been made.

We seem to be overfed, yet we are malnourished, are sick, and have higher rates of chronic disease than most other countries. Although medication may be needed to help control the symptoms associated with disease, they are not fixing the root cause of the problem, and often only drive disease further into our bodies. Many people are often admitted to the hospital because of something that is ultimately linked to their nutritional status, and the alarming part about this is that they leave the hospital even more nutritionally compromised then when they were admitted. How can patients properly heal when they are served jello that contains sugar or artificial sweeteners and white bread?

Luckily, the body is very resilient and has an incredible ability to heal despite all the abuse we sometimes do to it. What can one do to achieve better nutrition? Simply start by returning to a whole foods based diet and begin by incorporating one healthy change at a time. Making lifestyle changes is a process that takes place over time and is often not without struggle and challenges, however, if embraced can ultimately be a process of self discovery and transformation. Quick fixes are not the answer, usually do not work, and if they do work, usually are not permanent. When you begin to eat more whole foods, you will find that you develop a preference for healthy foods. Best of all, you will be connected with and in tune with your nutrition. Eating a nutritious diet facilitates well being and promotes good health, reduces the risk of disease, and provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Hippocrates, referred to as the father of medicine, said it best, �Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.�

In addition, we need to remember that nutrition is not just for the body, but it is also for the mind and spirit. Dietary modification, physical activity, weight reduction, and stress reduction are all necessary components to good health. We also need to be accountable for our own food choices and take back responsibility for our own health. As a clinical nutritionist, I teach people how to weed through nutritional nonsense and achieve better health through nutrition. As part of my practice, I provide my patients with comprehensive nutrition recommendations that are easy to live with, uniquely tailored to each person�s specific biochemical, physiological and genetic makeup, and designed to help bring back a state of balance. Consultations include review and evaluation of dietary intake, personal and family medical history and discussion of goals. The dietary recommendations I make are manageable, simple to incorporate, and can easily be obtained by shopping at local markets. Follow up visits are spent teaching basic facts of good nutrition as well as the connection between diet and health, since knowledge is key to success. In addition to individual nutrition therapy, the following services are also offered: diabetes education classes, nutrition and wellness seminars, nutrition boot camp for high cholesterol, 12 weeks to mindful eating, nutrition 101 for teens, home exercise programs, private cooking lessons, Reiki, crystal light therapy, a lending library, and a free meditation group.

Lisa Zola, MS, MSN, APRN-BC is a board certified nurse practitioner who also holds a master�s degree in nutritional sciences. She is the owner of Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC and the DOC Nutrition Clinic� which are located inside the Nutrition Center at 116 Center Street in downtown Wallingford. For further information please call 203.269.2952 or visit www.tlclisazola.com

Free Dental Clinic,
Free Dental Clinic, March 12 & 13, Middletown
Aetna Building, exit 21 off I-91 South.
No restrictions, free services regardless of income or age.
First come-First Serve, No appointments
FULL Services include x-rays, fillings, extractions, and oral surgery
Sponsored by the CT Dental Association
For more information call toll free 866-539-9372
Or www.csda.com
PERSONS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ARRIVE EARLY, 8:00 am START
Volunteers needed too!

The Silent Partner in a Healthy Community: The Wallingford Health Department

Many people don�t realize all the things a local health department does �behind the scenes� to keep you healthy and safe. We�re often called the �silent� partner because when we�re doing our job, know one thinks about us. But if you get sick from something you eat or maybe you got an infection after visiting a nail salon, THEN you call us.

I want to thank Andy Reynolds for the opportunity to tell you who we are; actually it was more like he said �you have until tomorrow, so start writing�. Your local health department has the responsibility of overall protection of the public health. What is Public Health? Public Health is defined as the overall health of a community, including social and mental well being, not merely the absence of disease. OK, so that�s the text book answer, but what do we do?

Our �authority� to ensure your community health is based on law, the CT General Statutes, provides the full scope and authority for the enforcement of both public health statutes and the CT Public Health Code (CT PHC). It is important to note that violations of the CT PHC are deemed criminal misdemeanors. That�s� right, it�s a crime to violate Public Health laws! You don�t have the right to pollute or endanger the public�s health, or you could find yourself before a prosecuting attorney, or as the saying goes �tell it to the judge�.

I won�t bore you with all the regulation and code sections (there are many!), but I will provide you a glimpse of what we do:

Food Service Establishment Inspection, Subsurface Sewage Disposal (aka permitting of septic system), Building Additions, Accessory Structures, Change of Use (if you have a septic system) Private Water Well, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Case Management, Public Swimming Pool Inspection (if you live in a condo with a pool, we inspect it!), Public and Private Schools, General Nuisance and Abatement (garbage, odors, etc.) Rabies Prevention Program, Youth Camp Program inspections, Day Care Center Inspection,, Infectious Disease and Control, Hair and Nail Salons and Barber Shop Inspections, Health Education as it pertains to all services listed and Public Health Preparedness, Mass Dispensing (like the H1N1 vaccine).

We try our best to evaluate all complaints we received in a timely manner. In order to do that, we need actually addresses if you are reporting a problem. Why? It just makes sense. Think about it, how many �yellow house next to the blue house on the right side of the street� are there? We enter the property address into our files and review property ownership BEFORE we even leave the office, so a house number is required. We also need you information or we can�t call you back. Don�t worry, we are not permitted by law to release your name, we don�t want to fuel any neighborly feuds!

Next months I�ll share some humorous stories on �a day in the life of a health inspector�. If you have any questions, give us a call 203-294-2065.

Eloise Hazelwood - Wallingford Director of Health

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Biggest Winners Lose 79.7 Pounds So Far!

The Meriden YMCA is very excited to announce that our Biggest Winner Challenge participants have lost a total of 79.7 pounds at the halfway point of our weight loss challenge! Phylis Balogh, John Benigni, Rose Charpentier, Rich and Theresa Doolittle, Christine Fontaine, Cindy Johnson, Martha Leiva, Linda Mansolf, LeeAnn Rousseau, Tammy Szczepanski, Scott Tenney, and Melissa Visconti have been working very hard since January learning about healthy eating and exercising as part of the Meriden YMCA?s Get Real Weight Management class. The class meets on Monday nights 6:30 to 7:15 at our South Meriden facility at 145 Main Street. You can join the class at anytime and do not have to participate in the contest to attend the class. Workouts, nutrition, guest speakers and healthy cooking demos are all part of this program which is designed for both men and women. The class is free for members and $12 per month for nonmembers. Call Carrie at 235-6386 x18 for more information.

About the Meriden YMCA
Since1866 the Meriden YMCA has helped build strong kids, strong families, and a strong community. The Meriden YMCA is located at 110 West Main Street in Meriden.

Visit us on the web at www.meridenymca.org

What is energy medicine?

I am asked this question all the time. It is difficult to define. Energy medicine is something you need to experience to truly understand it.

In short, energy medicine is a form of complementary and alternative medicine that works to balance the subtle energies of the body. There are many forms of energy medicine � such as Reiki and acupuncture, which are the most commonly known. I practice a form of hands-on touch therapy called the W.I.S.E� Method (Wholistically Integrated Spiritual Energy), acupressure, and Reiki.

The body�s energies are the key to health, vitality, and well-being. When our body�s energy is in balance, we are healthy. But everyday stress, injury or surgery, traumatic events (physical or emotional), self-limiting thoughts and old belief systems are a few things that can disrupt the natural flow of our energy. Stagnant or blocked energy leads to dis-ease in the body, mind and spirit. Energy medicine helps remove blocks and re-establish healthy flow.

Below are popular ways clients find benefit from energy medicine.

Relaxation Session: We all need a break from day-to-day stress. This session is your time to completely relax while your energy is balanced to remove the effects of stress, tension and anxiety (such as headaches, sleeplessness, tense muscles, impaired immune system, lack of focus).

Improved Health/Healing (post surgical, emotional, chronic and acute illness): Energy medicine helps speed recovery from illness, injury and surgery by enhancing specific energy which increases the body�s ability to regenerate and heal itself. Many people who have chronic pain, such arthritis, knee pain, back pain, and fibromyalgia, find relief with energy sessions.

Support of Cancer Patients: There are specific energy healings for pre- and post surgery, operative and inoperative cancer, tumors, chemo and radiation treatments. Cancer patients also benefit from energetic support for the immune system and for the liver to help reduce the effects of medications, chemo, anesthesia.

End-of-Life Transition: Coming to terms with our passing or our loved one's passing is often difficult. Each end-of-life journey is sacred, and each person needs something different to pass on with peace in their heart.

Endocrine System/Hormonal Imbalances: Energy medicine can help balance the endocrine system, which regulates reproduction and other hormones. Energy medicine can also help with other fertility and menstrual issues, such a painful cramps, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis.

Pet Healing and Communication: Any of the healings for humans can be used for animals of any species. Stresses, traumas, surgeries, and even genetic predisposition all contribute to dis-ease in our animal companions. Also, animals are all-to-willing to take on its owner�s stress, tension, anxiety and illness. Animals respond very well to energy medicine. I share with you what I find in your pet�s energy field and body and ways that you can continue to help them on your own..

Energy medicine is a perfect complement to traditional medical care.

For More information: Carrie Purcell, www.carriepurcell.com, 203.623.7386

Healthy Eating 101 � A Monday Night �Refresher�

As part of the spring Monday Night Refresher Series, the Meriden Health Department will be hosting a presentation on healthy eating 101. The presentation will be held on March 15 from 6:00-7:00m at the Meriden Public Library, located at 105 Miller Street.

This program will review easy ways to reduce calorie intake while still enjoying your favorite foods and how to become more �mindful� of the food we eat. Attendees will receive free fast food and every day nutrition guides and healthy snacks will be served.

This event is free and open to the public. To register, please call Lea Crown, Community Health Educator, at 630-4238.

Have You Gotten Your Flu Vaccines Yet?

Flu season isn�t over yet! The Meriden Health Department still has a limited number of seasonal flu shots available. Vaccines will be administered on a first come, first serve basis by appointment at the Clinic office, located at 165 Miller Street.

The cost of the vaccine is $25.00. Medicare Part B will be accepted. Any persons allergic to eggs or any part of the seasonal flu vaccine are not eligible for the vaccination.

The seasonal flu vaccine is only effective against the seasonal flu virus and does not protect against the H1N1 influenza virus. Residents are encouraged to get the H1N1 flu vaccine as well as seasonal flu vaccination. Health Department Clinic staff can help you determine which version on the vaccine (nasal or injectable) you are eligible for depending on your age and health status. There is no charge for the H1N1 flu vaccine.

Please contact the Clinic office at 203-630-4234 for your appointment or if you have any questions. People can also view flu prevention information on the Meriden Health Department's website, www.meridenhealth.com.

Your Meriden Health Department

The Meriden Health Department is committed to the protection and promotion of the physical and environmental well-being of the citizens of Meriden through direct service, wellness promotion and active support of community efforts. Here is a brief description of the services we offer:

Clinic Services (203-630-4234) coordinates immunization services for children and adults, provides a variety of screenings, and is responsible for communicable disease tracking.

Community Health Education (203-630-4238) provides health information to help residents make voluntary health decisions to better improve their health. Smoking cessation services are available by calling 630-4104.

Environmental Health (203-630-4280) inspects and provides licensing to places which prepare and sell food such as restaurants, supermarkets, and bakeries. They also investigate nuisance complaints such as rodents, stagnant water, and bulky waste.

HIV/AIDS Counseling and Testing (203-630-4176) is available by appointment. Services are confidential. Educational materials are available as well.

The Max E. Muravnick Senior Center (203-630-4273) hosts programs for residents including mini-bus transportation, medical transportation, Meals-on-Wheels and various recreation activities and trips.

Meriden School Readiness (203-630-4236) provides access to affordable preschool programs to Meriden children. All-day or part-day options are available.

Public Health Emergency Preparedness (203-630-4240) works to develop strategies, policies, partnerships and plans to have a comprehensive response to any and all public health emergencies. An Emergency Planning Guide is available for Meriden residents.

School Health (203-630-4237) provides services to Meriden�s public and parochial schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade. Nurses conduct vision, hearing, and scoliosis testing, as well as provide emergency care and first aid to students in need.

Social Services (203-630-4222) provide a variety of services including health insurance counseling, geriatric assessment, and planning an developmental screenings for children 18 months to 4 years of age.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children, 203-630-4245) provides healthy foods and nutrition education to eligible participants, including pregnant women, mothers, and children under the age of 5.

The Youth Services Division (203-630-4225) offers counseling to youth and their families, provides juvenile assistance to youth who commit their first offense, and is a resource for community service opportunities.

Please visit the Meriden Health Department�s website at www.meridenhealth.com for more details on each office, information on public health news and emergencies, and a complete list of all upcoming programs. We value your input � comments and suggestions are always welcome!

Spend Time In Front of the Computer? Save Your Vision!

Did you know that the average adult spends eight and a half hours in front of a computer and/or television screen every day? Our children are not too far behind � they spend an average of 6 hours a day in front of a screen. Add mobile phones and video games to that and the numbers for both adults and children can rise up to 12 hours a day!

The Meriden Health Department, in honor of March being �Save Your Vision� month, would like to remind residents of all ages that this is a perfect time to review how spending long hours in front of a computer screen can have a negative effect on our eye health.

Whether you spend your entire work day on the computer or use it for leisure-time activities such as updating your Facebook status and shopping online, people who sit in front of a computer for long periods of time can experience headaches, neck strain, backaches and wrist pain. The most common symptoms of prolonged computer use are eye strain, blurred vision and dry eye.

Here are some simple tips that will help you protect your eyes while on your computer:

� If possible, decrease your time spent at the computer. Ideally it is best to rest your eyes every 20 minutes if you plan on being in front of the computer for a long period of time. This could be as easy as turning off your monitor and getting up from your desk.
� Rearrange your desk so that your monitor is below eye level, about 20 to 28 inches away from your face. Cut the glare by changing your lighting or rearranging your desk to cut down the glare from a window.
� Be kind to your eyes - wear glasses that are designed for the computer, blink forcefully and often to keep your eyes moist, and apply eye drops to your eyes to reduce dry eye if needed.
� Change your computer settings to best fit your eye vision. Increase the font size and brightness of the screen if needed.

You only have one set of eyes � take care of them! These tips can help to reduce eye problems and ensure more comfortable and enjoyable computer use. Contact your eye doctor for more information.

Sources: American Optometric Association, WebMD. Article written by Theresa Holda, Intern, Meriden Health Department
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The Meriden Firefighters� Local 1148 would like to remind everyone of the danger of using extension cords.

Extension Cord Don�ts
Do NOT use as permanent wiring
Do NOT use unapproved extension cords
Do NOT overload power capabilities of the cord during temporary use
Do NOT plug in multiple extension cords into one another
Do NOT use one surge protector/power strip to power another

Basic Guidelines for the Appropriate Use of Extension Cords
Cords must be properly approved (by Underwriters Laboratory, etc.)
Approved cords must be for temporary use only
Extension cords may be used for remodeling and maintenance or repair of structures or equipment
It is permissible to use extension cords to light holiday decorations

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Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council -MAWSAC

5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford
203-294-3591 mawac@aol.com
www.mawsac.org

Alcohol, tobacco, gambling and drugs are tough subjects to talk about and even tougher when they become problems in your life or in the lives of those you love. MAWSAC is a local prevention council that works with volunteer community members and organizations to bring information, education and access to treatment for anyone who requests help. Whether it is speaking to students and parents, participating in a health fair, or helping a family find a treatment facility, members of the Council are committed to helping our community become healthier and make informed decisions. Programs include Beginning Awareness Basic Education Studies (B.A.B.E.S.) an in-school puppet program for first graders: �Soy Unica! �Soy Latina! for middle school girls and moms: the holiday Parranda: Teen Awareness cards: information resource library: TIPS training for alcohol servers: and a drug prevention website.

More information is as easy as picking up the phone or checking the MAWSAC website.

Combating the abuse of alcohol and drugs is more than �just say no!�

Phase One of MidState Medical Center�s New Emergency Department and Building Expansion Project Complete

MidState Medical Center is pleased to announce that the first phase of its $45 million expansion project is complete. With a new Emergency Department that has increased from 10,200 square feet to 23,300 square feet, new main entrance and lobby area, and additional inpatient unit, the project as a whole will add approximately 100,000 square feet of space to the hospital by September.

The new Emergency Department (ED) has been designed to provide patients with greater convenience and comfort, delivering quality, patient-focused service that allows for the most optimal patient experience. Additionally, the state-of-the-art design and technological capabilities provide clinical staff with a more efficient working environment to care for patients.

Enhanced features of the new ED include all private treatment spaces, an 11-bed Assessment Unit, private Behavioral Health Unit, and a dedicated and centrally located Radiology suite.

As the hospital moves into phase two of construction, the existing ED will be renovated and connected to the new department. After phase two of the project is complete in September, a full capacity of 53 treatment spaces will be available for patients needing care.

In addition, MidState�s new main entrance showcases a covered patient drop-off area and impressive lobby with a soothing water feature. Our newest inpatient unit, Pavilion E, adds 14 beds for increased patient care.

During the immediate transitional phase, additional Security officers and Volunteers will be on hand to direct patients and visitors.

The expansion of the hospital�s physical capacity, as well as the additional services offered, are evidence of MidState�s continued commitment to provide the community with the highest standards of care.

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About MidState Medical Center

In quarterly patient satisfaction surveys, MidState consistently rates among the top hospitals in Connecticut and the nation. Conveniently located just minutes off Rte. 691 in Meriden, CT, MidState offers free and safe parking, as well as private inpatient rooms. Services include general surgery, emergency medicine, MidState Medical Group Walk-in Centers for urgent care needs, and state-of-the-art care in centers dedicated to Cancer Care, Family Birthing, Balance & Hearing, Digestive Health, Pain Management, and Cardiac Care. Outpatient services conveniently offered at 61 Pomeroy Avenue include the Diabetes Center & Outpatient Nutrition Counseling, Sleep Care Center, Infectious Disease & Travel Clinic, Advanced Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine and Weight Management Program. MidState Medical Center is a member of Hartford Healthcare, a large, diversified health care system throughout Connecticut.

Excellence in Care. And caring.

For information, call 203-694-8200, or visit www.midstatemedical.org.

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!

WE CARE Family Outreach Activities - Wallingford

WE CARE is beginning its spring 2010 activities with more playgroups and workshops. The playgroups are free and available to residents of Wallingford. Since the beginning of the WE CARE council {Wallingford Early Childhood Alliance Resource and Education] in 2002 thanks to a Discovery grant from the William Casper Graustein Memorial Fund of Hamden, CT the group has worked to improve the quality of early childhood programs in the community so that the overall well-being of each child would be enhanced.

The work has underscored the importance of the relationship between parents and children. Parents are the first and most important teacher in a child�s life. The playgroups that are offered underscore the importance of play and illustrate the key role of literacy in development. There are two playgroup opportunities offered by the WE CARE Council: the Playful Cruisers is offered at the WE CARE Family Resource Center in the Youth and Social Services department at 6 Fairfield Blvd {203-284-4019] several mornings each week. In addition Playful Cruisers is also offered one morning at the Wallingford Community Day Care Center, 80 Wharton Brook Drive. The second playgroup is Bebes Activos and is offered for the Spanish community. These sessions are held both at the Family Resource Center and at the Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club, 72 Grand Street. Play is the way children learn and it is one of the best ways for them to prepare for kindergarten. For more information call the WE CARE office: 203-284-4019.

WE CARE will also launch its parent and teacher educational workshops again this spring. The programs are designed to help parents understand the development needs of their preschool child and to participate fully in this development. It is hard work but it is also fun and very rewarding. Some of the workshops are offered for the professional preschool teachers in the community. Wallingford is fortunate to have 24 licensed child care centers and 36 licensed home care providers Each of these units have staff members committed to the goal of providing quality care and learning to preschool children. School readiness is not just a catch phrase but a meaningful description for the work needed to prepare a child for kindergarten. Some of the topics being offered this Spring 2010 [all details can be found in the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Spring 2010 brochure] include: Yoga for babies and parents; Early speech development; Behavior issues for preschoolers; Birth-to-Three programs for families. For more information you can call the Family Resource Center at 203-284-4019

WE CARE is always looking for parents who want to volunteer in the ongoing work of the council. Every parent can make a big difference in the success of his/her own child.

The time to start begins a birth and it never ends. The place to start if with friends and neighbors in the community. WE CARE invites you all to come and play with us.

Roberta Clouet
Project Coordinator
WE CARE
A Discovery Project
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Stroke Recovery� A Growing Short-Term Rehabilitation Market in our Community.

Over the past four years, Water�s Edge Center for Health & Rehabilitation, located at 111 Church Street in Middletown, has implemented new programs and made changes to coincide with the evolving needs of the aging community in greater Middletown.

The �Passport Rehabilitation� program has been specifically designed to meet the needs of individuals requiring a short-term rehabilitative stay following hospitalization or an acute medical episode. While on their short-term �journey� with us, residents can take full advantage of the amenities and services the facility offers.

One of the niche markets in the community is for Stroke Recovery. Why? Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and in the last decade there has been rapid progress in the treatment and rehabilitation of stroke patients. Our therapists work closely with our interdisciplinary team to develop appropriate personalized care plans. According to administrator Lew Abramson, �our program uses advanced rehabilitative techniques that increases strength and mobility for optimal functional recovery after stroke. Rehabilitation is also offered 7 days a week so that patients can get the most benefit during their stay, recover quickly, and return home as soon as possible.�

In addition to 24 hour nursing care, residents in our stroke recovery program will receive physical, occupational, and speech therapy to assist with weakness or sensation loss on one side of the body, shoulder pain or muscle or joint tightness, and the inability to walk, talk or eat independently. Staff therapists work with residents up to seven days a week to assist with a variety of daily activities to improve quality of life. In addition to strengthening exercises, ultrasound and electromagnetic equipment is used by our staff to help decrease pain and loosen tight joints. Our therapy department is trained to utilize Accelerated Core Plus Programs to address a variety of stroke needs such as muscular weakness, sensory deficiency, and low muscle tone.

The short-term rehabilitation unit consists of a dedicated floor and a spacious rehabilitation gymnasium for those residents admitted for short-term intensive rehabilitation. The high number of residents discharged home following short-term rehabilitation is indicative of the commitment and dedication of the facilities specially trained staff.

Water�s Edge Center for Health & Rehabilitation also provides other short-term rehab programs including wound care management, pulmonary rehabilitation and orthopedic recovery following surgery and hospitalization. After completing a major renovation to the building three years ago, the facility is also proud to offer an innovative, spacious, and nurturing dementia unit.

For more information on our services, please contact admissions at 860.347.7286 or visit our website at www.watersedgerehab.com.

March is upon us
Kimberley Linstruth-Beckom

March is upon us and that means that the birds chirp a little louder and the sun starts to shine a little brighter. Spring has a way of making me itch and I'm not talking about the winter dry kind that you scratch. This kind of itch will get under your fingernails and you'll be in serious need of a manicure, but dirt will do that.

I like to garden. It's fun, relaxing, and can keep the kids busy for hours. Gardening can also do one more thing that most people are not aware of, it can help you stay in shape. Yes, gardening, according to that crazy "Garden Guy" on HGTV's "Gardening by the Yard", is like a workout at a gym.

Some people who have raked a few leaves or tilled their own soil are probably rolling their eyes as if to say, hey, Kim, you are stating the obvious. Gardening is a lot of work, but it's mostly back breaking, it's no trip to the yoga studio.

I must say that I've done a little deep breathing with some of my gardening workouts, but most of that was due to my brother's dog digging up some freshly planted mums. All kidding aside, you really can stay in shape while taking care of your "garden by the yard". Gardening contains all three types of exercise, which are, endurance, flexibility, and strength, granted it's in the disguise of pruning, weeding, digging, and raking, but it is exercise none the less.

Gardening has heavy and light duties to it and you can alternate which type you are doing. As with any activity, including exercise, don�t overdo it. Jeff Restuccio, author of "Fitness the Dynamic Gardening Way", suggests 30-60 minute time limits, regardless as to whether or not all of your plant holes are dug.

In an article on WebMD entitled, Get Fit by Gardening, Restuccio goes further in saying that one should focus on deep breathing and exaggerated movements to get a good workout. Apparently Mr. Miyagi isn't the only one who can find great benefits in every day chores.

Some of you still might be rolling your eyes at all of this, thinking that gardening is more of a chore rather than something fun to do. That might be why State Garden Clubs and thousands of "Aerobic Gardeners" across America are making a statement on Monday, June 6, 2010 and calling it National Gardening Exercise Day. They want people to substitute the phrase "yard work" with "yard exercise" in hopes that people start to enjoy the outside a little more and get fit while doing it.

Plants are amazing living things that can brighten anyone's day, regardless as to whether or not you are the one that planted it. The gift of flowers seems to be a common site for any patient in the hospital. And some people like Sharon Lovejoy, author of "Country Living Gardener: A Blessing of Toads", point to studies that found a link between ADHD and > insufficient time outdoors.

These findings are interesting, however, studies are just that, and this information is inconclusive from what I can see. What is common knowledge, however, is that vitamin K is easy to absorb through the body from sunlight. The amount of time needed depends upon your skin, but the least amount is 15 minutes. And a sunblock is always a good idea.

So with that, I hope all of you get out there this spring and enjoy some gardening exercise. I also hope you can take a garden walk and try a little bird watching to catch some vitamin K rays. Happy Spring and Happy Health!__________________________________________________________________________________

Being Smart About Your Pets Health
By: Lori Peck, Meriden Humane Society

Believe it or not Spring is around the corner and with it bringing all of the pesky creatures that disrupt our pets lives. So, wouldn't it be a good idea to bring your pet in for an annual exam and stock up on your flea/tick and heartworm preventatives ahead of time. Your pet is a part of the family and deserves to have their health a priority as well.

Unfortunately, our four legged friends can't always let us know when something hurts or is bothering them, so they rely on us to take care of them. Not only do they need us to feed them, give them attention and walk them, they need us to take care of their health as well. We can do this by not only bringing our pets to the veterinarian for their shots when they need them, but by bringing them in for an annual checkup as well. Your veterinarian can check the animal�s ears, teeth, heart and many other things that we as pet owners wouldn't know what to look for. This way if something is wrong, the animal can get it treated early and not have to go through anything worse later.

Cats and kittens can start getting a flea treatment at 8 weeks and older and puppies about 7 weeks and older. But please consult your veterinarian first if you have any questions.

We can also help our pets by cleaning their bowls regularly, so that mold and germs do not build up in them. Keeping their beds vacuumed and cleaned, cleaning their litter boxes, kennels, cages and by keeping the yard free from unnecessary debris can also be helpful.

As the warm weather approaches, please remember that you may need to to get your pet to the groomer, so they can trim his coat and nails. Making sure your pet has fresh cool water and isn't overheated is very important, so please check on this as well.

If you can do these simple things for your pet�s health, then you should have a happy, healthy pet. Of course if your pet needs special care, please follow up with this as suggested by your veterinarian.
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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!

AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION DIABETES EXPO COMES TO TOWN

Bringing the most comprehensive array of diabetes-related products,
Services and information available under one roof

On April 17, 2010 the American Diabetes Association (ADA) will once again host the Diabetes EXPO, an annual, one-day event showcasing the latest products and services for people with diabetes. This highly interactive event includes activities for people of all ages - including a fun Kids Corner with exciting activities and information for children with diabetes and their families. The Diabetes EXPO provides the public with a unique opportunity to talk with health care experts and obtain important medical and nutrition information.

"If you or a loved one has diabetes -- or is at high risk of developing diabetes -- Diabetes EXPO provides a fun, relaxed environment to learn a great deal about the important aspects of prevention and management of diabetes and its serious complications," said Donald Zettervall, RPH, EXPO Chair. �The Diabetes EXPO is for all people affected by diabetes as well as anyone interested in healthy eating and active living.�

Nearly 24 million adults and children in the U.S. � including over 240,000 in Connecticut � and an additional 57 million have pre-diabetes. Diabetes can lead to serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to manage the disease and lower the risk of complications. Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes is critical. Unfortunately, many people living with diabetes do not even know it.

Over 50 exhibitors are participating in the Diabetes EXPO, which will be held Saturday, April 17th, 10am � 3pm, at the Connecticut Expo Center in Hartford. Stop by the ADA Experience and learn about local programs and events, advocacy activities and research being conducted in your community. Come participate in interactive cooking demonstrations, visit our health screening area, enjoy informative lectures, meet Chef Michel Nischan, visit the vendors, and speak personally with health care professionals.

The ADA thanks our local media sponsors for promoting this event: NBC Connecticut 30, WRCH 100.5FM radio, Identidad Latina, Northend Agents and Univision.

For more information about diabetes and the Diabetes EXPO, contact your local office at (203) 639-0385 x3532, or 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org/expohartford.

The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the Association has offices in every region of the country, providing services to hundreds of communities.

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How to �Reset Your Metabolism� forever.

As we age your metabolism slows down; because of that the aging process begins with your hair, skin & body function including unstable sugar levels high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and most importantly unhealthy and dangerous weight gain.

Dr. Donald Layman, the father of metabolism with over 90 peer papers and studies helped develop a patented system called Metaboliq.

It is based on the concept of macrobalance�eating the right proportions of high-quality proteins, smart carbohydrates and intelligent portions of friendly fats. Getting these portions correctly balanced will forever stabilize your blood sugar, reduce typical energy crashes, eliminate cravings and halt hunger pangs.**

Your body is an amazing bio-machine that requires fuel to run. Although it has the ability to extract energy from a large variety of foods or �fuels,� the diet choices you make have a major impact on how well your body operates. Unfortunately, most of us are working against ourselves by relying far too much on foods high in carbohydrates, which do allow our bodies to survive, but not thrive in a healthy manner. Our bodies are not designed for carbohydrates to be a primary source of fuel in the long-term.
In fact, carbohydrate-rich diets have some significant unintended negative health consequences:

� They often create a hyper-insulin response leading to large blood sugar fluctuations�creating cravings, crashes and hypoglycemia.

� They cause our bodies to store fat continuously.

� They increase inflammatory conditions that lead to chronic health diseases.

� They may lead to syndrome X and early diabetes, and that�s just the beginning.

Your body�s ideal macrobalance blend�the vital balance of carbs, fats and proteins create and maintain your best health. Using the principles of Dr. Layman�s findings, the right system will help you rapidly achieve your macrobalance requirements and ultimately allow your body to rapidly re-establish its healthy baseline, reset your internal metabolic program and restart your physiological functioning.

While it�s not just about weight loss, it�s absolutely critical you lose the right weight�weight from fat and not from active tissues like muscles or organs. Many programs achieve dramatic weight loss, but it�s not healthy or sustainable. Often times dramatic weight loss is simply water weight or even muscle deterioration. The Metaboliq system is about improving your body�s ability to function and achieve optimal health. Weight loss will occur, but many other aspects of your health will also improve.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and is a critical component to your success in the system. Most people get this meal wrong by eating too many carbs. It�s important to remember that your food choices each morning will determine if your body will store or burn fat. In addition, your breakfast choices help determine whether you�ll feel hungry or satisfied, tired or energized. Even if you�re on the go, you can still get the nutrients and fuel your body needs to energize itself.

There is more to weight loss than losing weight.
The most important meal of the day (breakfast) sets the tone for the rest of the day. When the body is satisfied and functioning at optimum levels, it will give you the energy to perform your daily tasks and enhance brain function as well.

Learn to train your body to burn fat.

Breakfast can start the day at almost any time, but the first meal determines the timing for all other meals. Eating regularly keeps your metabolism going and gives you the energy you need, while preventing you from over-indulging at any one meal.

Fluids are an important part of weight control, and water is always the best choice. All other fluids must be used carefully. Often the body confuses the signals for hunger with the signals for thirst. This can lead to eating excess calories when really your body wants fluids. Likewise, the body often mistakes fluids like soda, juice and coffee for food, which stimulates the processes of digestion. If you drink these fluids at non- meal times, you will likely become hungry within 30 to 45 minutes. This often leads to snacking and additional unwanted calories.

Drinks like coffee and soda (sugar-free or not) should be restricted to 30 minutes before or after meals. Do not have coffee or a soda for a mid-morning pick-me-up. It will make you hungry. You may ask, �But what about my morning coffee or tea?� That first mug of coffee is something you will have to decide for yourself. It is strongly recommend you eliminate soda because of the sweet taste, and limit yourself to tea or coffee during weight loss. Again, whatever you choose to drink besides water should be restricted to 30 minutes before or after meals, never earlier or later.

Physical activity is an essential part of your daily routine. Remember to walk and stretch every day. The key to exercise is consistent daily participation. Exercise is a critical component of a healthy lifestyle, so make the commitment to establish time each day to do some physical activity. The good news is every little bit helps. Thirty minutes each day can have a big impact on your long-term goals. Taking three 10 minute walks is the same as a half hour walk and will make the same impact on your overall health benefits.Ten minutes of stretching in the morning and a couple of 10 minute walks will work as well. Remember, a lifetime of good health is always worth the investment of time and effort. Exercise is an essential ingredient for anti-aging and pain-free living.

It is never too late to make a commitment to your good health.
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Coffee and Conversation Program Back for 2010!

Join us for Coffee and Conversation on Monday, March 29 from 1:00-2:00pm in the first floor conference room at the Meriden Senior Center. This month�s program will be an �ode to spring� featuring spring poetry readings by prominent local authors Ruth Kahn and John Kenney. Coffee and refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public. Coffee and Conversation programs are jointly sponsored by the Center for Successful Aging and MidState�s LaPlanche Clinic, and are held once a month at the Senior Center. Call 203-630-4222 to RSVP or for more information.

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Carol Carbutti, The Owner Of Comfort Keepers In Wallingford, CT Believes These Six Keys To Regular Exercise Will Benefit Our At Home Elderly Seniors While Promoting A Healthy Aging Lifestyle

The benefits of being physically fit for in home healthy aging retirees are so numerous that it makes no sense not to encourage them to develop a reasonable level of fitness. As our baby boomer parents and retired grandparents age, keeping fit can become more of a challenge, but the benefits are even more numerous and rewarding. Here are six keys that every senior and their private caregiver should keep in mind as they are pursuing a fitness program:

1. Frequency � How often your elderly senior parents exercise is an important factor in a successful fitness program. Family caregivers and companions need to remind their senior parents who are pursuing a health related fitness program that they do not have to exercise all that often. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) says that excellent results can be achieved by aging seniors with 2 sessions per week of strength training and at least 3 days a week of aerobic exercise (walking, etc.).

2. Intensity � How hard your healthy aging parents push themselves is also important. Seniors looking for in home health related fitness don�t have to push too hard. For aerobic exercise your elderly mom or dad should aim to work at a heart rate of about 60 -70% of their target heart rate (220 minus their age). Strength training requires enough weight to challenge an at home senior clients muscles, but not so much that it makes them really uncomfortable. The �no pain, no gain� mentality is definitely not necessary for good results.

3. Duration � This refers to how long an elderly client�s exercise session lasts. For good health, the requirements are very reasonable. A good target for aerobic exercise is 30 minutes per day. A caregiver can encourage sessions of as little as 10 minutes and build up to 3 times a day. Following this healthy routine proves to create sufficient results. For strength training, duration is not too important. It�s more important that homecare family members to observe and make sure their senior mom or dad�s routine covers a variety of exercises that target all of your major muscle groups.

4. Stretching � As our retirees get older, most of them lose some of the flexibility in their joints. Regaining as much of this flexibility as our elderly seniors can is extremely beneficial. For our homebound and respite care clients I recommend that they try to do some stretching exercises every day. Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference.

5. Warm-up � Everyone including our active senior citizens should include at least a few minutes of warm-ups before they start their regular exercises. The goal of a simple warm-up is to simply loosen up the muscles which they are about to use and get some extra blood flowing. For strength training a warm-up might include a set of exercises with little or no weight. For aerobic exercise, have your elderly parents start their exercise at a slower rate at the beginning then gradually pick up the pace, you will find that this method works well. A warm-up before stretching is also a good idea. Just a few calisthenics can safely and gently move the joints for our aging parents.

6. Cool Down � This is overlooked by many healthy aging seniors. The principle is pretty much the opposite of a warm-up. When your senior parent is done exercising, they need to gradually slow down their movements for a few minutes to bring the body back to a more normal level. Caregivers should make sure their senior clients continue by slowing down their movements to bring their heart rate back down to a more normal level before they stop completely.

Using these keys will help our retired seniors to develop an exercise program that is both beneficial and easy for them to follow. Your in home elderly parents will feel the results in a few short months. This will make their effort well worth it. Keep in mind that an exercise program to improve their senior health is something they must plan on doing the rest of their life. Family Caregivers and private home aids need to remind their clients continuously that their effort to achieve a happy and healthy lifestyle is worth the time.

I know that some family caregivers do not have the extra time in their busy schedule to encourage this kind of physical activity, so you may want to ask some of your relatives and close friends to help out. Another option to look into would be to hire an in home non medical caregiver and companion for a few hours a week to perform some household duties, run errands and encourage activities with healthy interaction. You can find important information about our company by going to www.comfortkeepers.com.

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!

Keep Kids Healthy As Winter Gives Way to Spring

When days get longer and the weather begins to warm up, it's a sure sign that spring is around the corner. After months of cold temperatures and gray skies, just about everyone looks forward to spending time outdoors taking in the sights, sounds and scents of the season. But with temperatures rising and flowers, trees and grasses beginning to bloom, it's also time to protect kids from seasonal allergies and sun exposure.

Here are some tips for keeping kids healthy all spring long.

* Look out for signs of seasonal allergies. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common problem in both infants and children. Common symptoms include repeated sneezing, a stuffy or runny nose with clear drainage or congestion, itchy eyes and nose, throat clearing, sore throat, and/or a cough that tends to worsen at night and in the morning. Kids with seasonal allergies also tend to breathe through their mouth a lot and may have dark circles under their eyes.

* Limit kids' exposure to common allergens. While it's impossible to keeps kids clear of all outdoor allergens, there are some common-sense steps that can help minimize their impact, such as keeping kids indoors and closing windows in the early morning when the spring tree pollen count is highest, not hanging clothes outside to dry and bathing kids at bedtime to help minimize nighttime allergies.

* Protect skin from the damaging effects of spring sun. After being indoors for much of the winter, kids are eager to spend as much time outdoors as possible. To protect their skin during the spring months, break out the sunscreen and their favorite hats. When choosing a sunscreen for a baby, toddler or young child, look for a product that offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with a minimum SPF of between 15 and 30. Also consider a product that is water resistant and one that is hypoallergenic and free of fragrance.

* Don't forget about eye protection. The lenses of children's eyes are extremely sensitive. Just as taking care of kids' skin can help prevent skin cancer in adulthood, eye protection can protect kids' eyes from developing certain conditions, like cataracts and macular degeneration, later in life. Everyone, including kids, should wear sunglasses year-round, but especially during spring and summer. Make sure to choose sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection. Hats with brims large enough to shade the eyes, while not as effective as sunglasses, also offer moderate protection from the sun.

Spring is Ideal Time to Get Moving
After hibernating in your den or on your couch all winter, let those first warm breezes of spring be a call to action. There's no better time of year to stretch your mind and muscles -- and launch an exercise routine that will take you through the summer and into the fall. The key to developing a fitness routine that will help you reach your health and weight goals is simpler than you may have thought. There are only two firm rules: Keep it simple and keep it up. Simplicity is key Often, the hardest part of an exercise program is getting started -- particularly after a long and sedentary winter. So priority number one is to simply get moving by setting aside 20 minutes every day for some kind of physical activity. Spring days are great times to take a walk, go for a bike ride in the neighborhood or rake those leftover leaves from your lawn. If there's still a bit of winter in the air, stay inside and dance to your favorite tunes or do some chores to fast-paced music. Mopping, vacuuming, dusting can be good exercise if you do them continuously and at a moderately fast pace. The important thing is to keep yourself moving for 20 minutes. The following week, add an additional 10 minutes and change up your activities. After two weeks, you will have developed the habit of taking time to move, which is essential to making any exercise routine stick.

Consistency gets results The bottom line is this: Once you are in the habit of exercising, it's much more likely that you will stay with it. What you do during your exercise time isn't nearly as important as simply doing it -- and making it fun. If exercising outdoors with friends will help keep you moving on a regular basis, build an exercise routine that includes walking with others a few times each week. If it's solitude you seek, search out two or three walking routes that are quiet and serene. Building in variety is another key to keep your exercise plan going strong. Ask for help Building new habits is hard, and you don't have to do it alone. There are fitness resources galore both in your public library and on the Internet. It's also a good idea to consult your physician for any exercise tips or suggestions.

Spring Is Here and So Is Allergy Season
Spring is synonymous with many things. The return of baseball. The smell of freshly cut grass. Warmer weather. While many things we associate with spring give us good feelings, the dreaded return of allergy season is another thing that comes to mind when thoughts turn to spring. Sniffles, sneezing and general discomfort are all too common even for those with relatively mild allergies. Though allergies might be a nuisance, they don't necessarily have to be much more than that.

What Is an Allergy? An allergy is an abnormal response of the immune system that occurs when the immune system reacts to a usually harmless substance present in the environment. The substance is known as an allergen and, upon exposure, the body feels this substance is dangerous, releasing chemicals like histamine to protect itself. That release can result in sneezing, red and itchy eyes, rashes, or a runny nose, among other things. The body's response is an allergic reaction. One very different allergic reaction is anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening response that requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis is a whole-body reaction, one that can include hives and itching all over the body, wheezing or shortness of breath, tightness or hoarseness in the throat, and even tingling feelings in the hands, lips, feet, or scalp.

What Might I Be Allergic To? A visit to the local allergist is always a good idea to determine what you might be allergic to. But keep in mind some of the more common things both kids and adults are allergic to:- dust mites- feathers- pollen- dairy- pet dander While things like pet dander and dairy aren't exclusive to spring, dust and pollen tend to be more prevalent and problematic throughout the spring season.

Won't I Outgrow My Allergy? According to the Allergy & Asthma Network, ongoing research indicates that food allergies are persisting longer into childhood. One study highlighted in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in late 2007 followed the progress of more than 800 children with milk allergy. In that study, only 1 out of 5 children outgrew milk allergy by age 4, and less than 50 percent had outgrown milk allergy by age 8. By age 16, nearly 80 percent had outgrown milk allergy. While this might be encouraging for parents of children with milk allergies, no two allergies are the same. Peanut allergy, for instance, does not necessarily disappear or weaken as a person gets older. So while it appears possible to outgrown an allergy, it's certainly not a guarantee, and those diagnosed with a given allergy should continue to consult with their physician.

What Triggers My Allergy? A host of preventable factors can trigger an allergy. * Pets. Those with an allergy to pet dander can avoid visiting friends or family members with pets. If that's not an option or if you have pets of your own, keep them out of the bedroom or off the furniture. * Dust. Dust allergies are common, and the best way to combat them is to keep a clean house. Place pillows in the dryer, wash sheets in hot water, use dust mite covers on mattresses and furniture, and vacuum regularly. Sweeping might help pick up random debris, but it's not effective on its own when fighting dust, as it will simply move the dust around the room. * Mold.

Many people are allergic to mold, and one can prevent exposure to this allergen by using a dehumidifier in damp areas, such as the basement, and running the bathroom or shower fan for up to 15 minutes after bathing. To learn more, visit the Allergy & Asthma Network at www.aanma.org.

Sleep Apnea Is Serious
Many people who think they simply have a snoring problem may actually be suffering from sleep apnea -- and ceasing to breathe hundreds of times per night.

Sleep apnea is a common condition that often goes undiagnosed unless a bed partner alerts a sufferer of the condition. It is one in which a person has one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while he or she sleeps. Greek for "without breath," apnea is usually chronic, occurring three or more times per week.

According to the National Institutes of Health, sleep apnea affects more than 12 million Americans. Sleep apnea sufferers generally feel tired and poorly rested during the day. This is because the person moves out of deep sleep into shallow sleep when breathing becomes compromised. With each apnea occurrence, the brain briefly arouses the person so he or she can resume breathing, but sleep is extremely fragmented. Therefore, a quality sleep is not achieved.

Sleep apnea may be obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea, or mixed. OSA is when the airways become blocked or have collapsed during sleep. This type of apnea may be accompanied by snoring. That is because when you try to breathe, any air that squeezes past the blockage can cause loud snoring. Central sleep apnea is when the brain does not trigger the body to breathe correctly. It is much less common and doesn't usually have snoring associated with it. Mixed is a combination of the two.

Sleep apnea can contribute to or cause a number of conditions. High blood pressure and other cardiovascular disease, memory problems, weight gain, impotency, headaches, and even death can all be the result of apnea.

Also, extreme daytime drowsiness may lead to poor performance at work, automobile accidents or other conditions from sleep deprivation. Fortunately, sleep apnea can be easily treated once it is diagnosed. The key is to have it properly diagnosed. As mentioned, it can be overlooked if a doctor is not alerted to the condition by someone who has witnessed the cessation of breathing at night.
When to See a Doctor * You snore loudly enough to wake others. * You awaken in the morning with a dry mouth and sore throat. * You repeatedly feel tired during the day despite a full night's sleep. * You have trouble staying asleep. * You frequently experience morning headaches. * Someone has witnessed your shortness of breath at night.

Cervical Cancer Screening and Information

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women. In the United States alone, it is estimated there were 11,270 new cases of cervical cancer in 2009 and 4,070 deaths from the disease. The two groups of women with the highest rates of cervical cancer are those from ages 35 to 39 and those from ages 60 to 64.

Early detection is the key to treatment and survival. Understanding HPV Cervical cancer is a cancer of the cervix, or the organ that connects the uterus to the vagina. It is almost always caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which up until recently was a little-known virus. It has since become a household name. This is a sexually transmitted virus that affects the mucous membranes in humans. HPV is spread through sexual skin-to-skin contact. Penetration is not necessary to spread the virus.

Men and women can be affected by HPV, and there are different strains. HPV that causes genital warts won't necessarily contribute to cervical cancer.

PAP Tests The only way to prevent HPV is to abstain from sexual contact. In recent years a vaccine has been approved for the prevention of HPV. Early detection of cervical cancer is also essential. This is obtained through a PAP test. The incidence of cervical cancer has decreased in developed countries around the world because of an increase in the use of screenings and appropriate follow-up treatment. The PAP test or PAP smear is named after Dr. George Papanicolaou who first developed the test. A sample of cervical cells are taken and observed under a microscope. A woman can have HPV for years and not know it. It stays in the body and can lead to cervical cancer years after infection. There are often no symptoms of HPV or cervical cancer, therefore PAPs are the single best way to detect it. If there are any symptoms, they may include unexplained bleeding or pain.

Treatment If cervical cancer is caught early, it can usually be treated successfully. A woman may still be able to have children even after the cancer is caught early enough. However, most treatments for cervical cancer make a woman unable to have children afterward. Depending on the stage of cancer treatments may include: * Cone biopsy to remove the cancer * Simple hysterectomy to remove the uterus and cervix * Hysterectomy and removal of pelvic lymph nodes with or without removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes * Radiation therapy, using high-dose X-rays or implants in the vaginal cavity to kill cancer cells * ChemotherapyRegular pelvic examinations and PAP tests can save a woman's life and prevent cervical cancer from developing. Women with any unusual symptoms should not hesitate to speak with their doctor.

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Making Oral Care Fun for Kids Year-Round

Children's oral care is something many parents are concerned about year-round, but there are also several times during the year when oral care is especially important. For example, Halloween, the winter holidays, Valentine's Day and Easter are all large candy-eating times in the year, making it essential to take the time now to teach children the importance of maintaining good oral health.

"Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, so it's important to teach children effective tooth brushing habits, especially around the holidays, when children are typically consuming more sweets than usual," says dentist and mom Dr. Jennifer Salzer. Oral care isn't usually a top priority for children and teeth cleaning may even be considered a chore to kids, which is why it is so important for parents to get involved and teach children the importance of proper oral care early on in their children's lives.

To make oral care more fun for children, Dr. Salzer offers some of her best tips: * Parents should brush their teeth with their child to set a good example. It also helps children to learn by watching and imitating their parent. * Sing your child's favorite song, like "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," or play a song from their favorite singer for the two minutes while they are brushing their teeth. * Give your child a toothbrush that is designed to appeal to a toddler who is learning to brush and whose baby teeth are growing in, like Oral-B Stages 2, which is designed to effectively reach all teeth, with its narrow head, simple bristle pattern and

Power Tip. - For younger children, when their first teeth begin to appear, parents should brush teeth using a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush with a cushioned head to help protect babies' tender gums, like Oral-B Stage 1 toothbrush. * It's important that children two and older use fluoridated toothpaste to help prevent decay as their teeth continue to develop.

A Guide to Heart Disease
"Heart disease" is a broad term used to describe a number of ailments affecting the heart. When most people think of heart disease, they typically call to mind heart attacks. However, there are a number of conditions that can affect the heart.

Understanding them is key to preventing further complications down the line. Here is a listing of common heart conditions, symptoms and treatment.

Angina: Chest pain or discomfort that occurs in and around the heart when the muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. It can be brought on by stress, exertion, emotion, extreme cold, or be a symptom of a deeper problem such as clogged arteries. There are three types of angina: stable, unstable, and variant. Stable angina follows a pattern and is generally the most common. Unstable angina doesn't follow a pattern. Variant angina occurs while you're at rest and is rare. Angina may be treated with rest and medicine. All heart pain should be checked by a doctor to see if it's a sign of something deeper.

Aneurysm: An aneurysm is an abnormal widening or ballooning of a portion of an artery due to weakness in the wall of the blood vessel. Depending on where the aneurysm occurs (brain, aorta or abdomen, for example) there may be no pain or bulging. Aneurysms are serious, and if not caught early and treated, can lead to death.

Arteriosclerosis: This is any hardening or loss of elasticity of medium and large arteries, generally as a result of hypertension. The most common sites for arteriosclerosis are arteries in the brain, kidneys, heart, abdominal aorta, or legs. Symptoms of arteriosclerosis vary according to which arteries are affected. Risk factors for arteriosclerosis include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and/or cholesterol, stress, and diabetes.

Atherosclerosis: This is a condition when fatty material collects in the arterial walls. It can harden over time, causing calcium deposits and restriction of blood flow. Avoiding fatty, high cholesterol foods, exercising regularly, and getting routine checkups at the doctor are all ways to head off atherosclerosis at the pass.

Heart attack: Also known as cardiac arrest, this is the culmination of many heart conditions, such as angina, arteriosclerosis, and atherosclerosis. It occurs when blood and oxygen are not able to reach the heart. According to the American Heart Association, signs of cardiac arrest can include: 1. Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain. 2. Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. 3. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. 4. Other signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

High cholesterol: High cholesterol can be a factor in a number of heart conditions. Therefore it is desirable to keep cholesterol levels low. Cholesterol is measured as Total cholesterol, HDL (the good cholesterol)and LDL (the bad cholesterol). Total cholesterol under 200 mg/DL is optimal. Less than 100 mg/DL of LDL and HDL levels of 60 mg/DL or more are desirable.

Hypertension: This is a term used to describe high blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured in two readings, the systolic pressure, or the pressure created when the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure, or the pressure in the heart when it is at rest. Blood pressure higher than 120 over 80 is considered high and should be monitored. How much water and salt you have in your body; the condition of your kidneys, nervous system, or blood vessels; and the levels of different body hormones can all cause hypertension. A change in diet or medication may be needed to control blood pressure.

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD):PAD is when insufficient blood flow reaches the arteries that supply the limbs. Pain or immobility may occur due to lack of blood to meet demand. Generally PAD is a sign that atherosclerosis is taking place and medical intervention should be taken.

Stroke: This is an interruption of blood supply to any part of the brain. It can come on suddenly or display symptoms over time. Changes in alertness, sleepiness, trouble speaking, loss of coordination, trouble moving limbs, and many other symptoms can be indicative of stroke. A stroke may be mild and cause temporary conditions. A massive stroke may lead to paralysis, brain damage or even coma. A stroke is a medical emergency. It is important to get the person to the emergency room immediately to determine if the stroke is due to bleeding or a blood clot so appropriate treatment can be started within 3 hours of when the stroke began. Clot busters may be given if it is a clotting condition.

Food Guidelines for Good Health
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that individuals use the food pyramid for a balanced diet. For a 2,000-calorie diet, follow the recommendations below from each category. GRAINS: 6 ounces (3 ounces whole grains) dailyVEGETABLES: 21/2 cups dailyFRUITS: 2 cups dailyMILK: 3 cups low-fat milk products dailyMEAT & BEANS: 5 1/2 ounces dailyFATS, SUGARS AND SALT: Go sparingly

Resolve to Avoid Injury When Exercising This Year
Of the millions of New Year's resolutions made each year, perhaps none is more repeated than the resolution to get in better shape. Each year, millions of people resolve to shed a few extra pounds or simply get healthier, with varying degrees of success.

One of the ways to ensure the resolve to get healthier is successful is to exercise safely. Veteran athletes and seasoned professional trainers all note the importance of safety when it comes to exercise. Simply diving right into exercise can be a recipe for disaster, often leading to injury, especially for those people new to exercise or returning after a long layoff.

For those who have resolved to get in better shape this season, consider the following exercise safety tips.
* Don't push it. The body responds differently to exercise as it ages, and many people who were once exercise afficionados but stopped regularly exercising could likely make the mistake that they can still exercise as hard as they did in their youth.

However, pushing it after a long layoff is potentially dangerous and could result in a number of injuries. While you might one day be able to return to form, initially it's best to take it easy.

Stop exercising immediately if you begin to experience any of the following symptoms: - Dizziness - Nausea - Cold sweats - Muscle cramps - Pain or pressure in the chest (particularly left-chest or mid-chest) - Joint pain * Maintain proper breathing or cease exercising if you can't.

Whenever exercising, you should be able to walk without gasping for breath. If you cannot breathe properly, stop exercising immediately. Once your system has rebounded and you begin to feel better, if you're going to return to your exercise regimen, simply tone it down, performing each exercise more slowly. * Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated throughout an exercise routine will increase flexibility and replace the water you lose by sweating.

While some might feel this will counteract any weight loss, losing water weight is not the type of weight loss you should be aiming for. Be sure to drink lots of water before, during and after workouts.

* Remember the wisdom of Mom and Dad. Nearly everyone who ever went to the beach as a child recalls Mom and Dad advising them to stay out of the water after eating. That same advice you heard as a child is still applicable today as an adult. While it's acceptable to go for a light walk after a small meal, avoid strenuous exercise for at least 2 hours after eating a big meal.

* Wear appropriate attire. When working out, proper attire isn't whatever looks good on you. It's important to purchase sneakers that support weight-bearing activities and tops that promote movement but aren't too loose. If jogging outdoors, be sure to wear a knit cap in colder weather or a baseball cap in warmer temperatures. Both of these will help you maintain a proper body temperature and ward off harmful side effects such as cold, flu or sunburn.

* Stretch, stretch, stretch. Professional athletes make their living with their bodies, and they stretch extensively before each and every game. Just because you don't earn a ballplayer's paycheck doesn't mean you can avoid stretching. Stretching helps prevent muscle pulls, strains and other injuries, so make sure an adequate stretching routine is a part of your workout.

* Consult or hire a professional. Those who have had an extensive layoff from exercise might want to employ a personal trainer, at least until they get comfortable with a routine. In fact, many fitness clubs offer a handful of free personal training sessions to new members to ensure all members start off safe and avoid injury. Take advantage of such sessions if they're available. If not, hire one of the club's personal trainers, even if it's only for a few sessions, at the onset of your routine.

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Tackling Childhood Obesity

Obesity is now among one of the most widespread medical problems for children and adolescents.

The American Obesity Association reports that about 15 percent of adolescents (aged 12 to 19 years) and children (aged 6 to 11 years) are obese in the United States. Doctors say that obesity among children is one of the country's greatest health challenges.

Many health care providers define obesity in a child as weighing 20 percent or more over the healthy range. The percentage of body weight that is fat is also a good indicator of obesity. Boys over 25 percent fat and girls over 32 percent fat are considered obese. C

hildhood obesity puts youngsters at risk of being overweight adults. It also presents risk factors for other serious health concerns, such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Overweight children can also experience psychological side effects. Bullying and teasing by peers may lead to poor self worth and even depression.

Some experts believe that breastfeeding and delaying solid foods for infants can help prevent obesity. Teaching children how to eat healthfully as they age is another way to promote healthy weight.

Here are some additional suggestions:
* Limit the time spent watching television, playing video games and surfing the Internet to no more than 7 hours per week.
* Encourage physical activity, such as sports leagues or simply playing outdoors with neighborhood friends.

* Set a good example by limiting the fattening foods you eat. Make healthy meals a family affair.

* Many people overlook the extra caloric intake of sodas and other soft drinks, not to mention the amount of sugar in these drinks. Serve water whenever possible.

* Have children avoid snacking or eating while watching television. They may eat subconsciously while distracted by the show -- and consequently eat much more than is recommended.

* Exercise as a family. Get outside and take walks, ride bicycles or swim. If exercise is done together, it's more likely to be continued.

* According to statistics, only one-third of students have regular physical activity at school. Speak to school officials about having more physical fitness incorporated into students' schedules.

* Pack your child's lunch so he is less likely to rely on processed or fast foods.

* Regular health checkups can determine if your child is in a healthy weight range. Doctors have the equipment to most accurately measure body mass index (BMI). You can also roughly calculate it at home: Multiply the child's weight in pounds by 705. Then divide by the child's height in inches. Divide this by the height in inches again.

Myths Abound When it comes to Diabetes
Be it a friend, family member, coworker, or even a passing acquaintance, chances are strong nearly everyone in the United States knows someone with diabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association, as of 2007 more than 23 million Americans have diabetes. That translates to roughly eight percent of the United States population, making diabetes one of the most prevalent diseases in the country, and the reason so many lives have been directly or indirectly affected.

As prevalent as the disease is, a mountain of misinformation is still out there, making diabetes not only one of the most common diseases suffered by Americans, but also one of the most misunderstood.

In an effort to dispel myths about this all-too-common disease, the American Diabetes Association makes note of the following myths commonly associated with the disease.

* Myth: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes. While being overweight increases a person's risk for developing type 2 diabetes, too much sugar does not cause diabetes. While it can be difficult to determine why one individual gets diabetes and another does not, it is known that family history and poor diet increase a person's risk factor. However, no evidence exists to suggest too much sugar causes the disease. Rather, diabetes can begin when the body is disrupted and its ability to turn food that's consumed into energy is put in jeopardy. The causes of diabetes, however, are different depending on the type, and none are the result of too much sugar. For example, type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot produce insulin, leading to sugar piling up in the blood vessels. Research has indicated that type 1 diabetes could be related to difficulties with the immune system. Type 2 diabetes can also occur when the body cannot produce sufficient insulin, or result from insulin that simply does not function as it should. Overweight people have proven especially susceptible to type 2 diabetes. Hormone changes can also be at the root of diabetes, particularly in pregnant women who experience such changes that prevent insulin from working properly. This is know as gestational diabetes and could possibly resolve itself after childbirth.

* Myth: People with diabetes are more susceptible to colds and other ailments. People with diabetes are not, in fact, more susceptible to the common cold or other ailments. However, the American Diabetes Association advises all people with diabetes to get flu shots annually. That's because any infection can interfere with blood glucose management, and increase the risk for ketoacidosis for people with type 1 diabetes. Ketoacidosis is a condition that can cause the body to switch to starvation mode because the body isn't able to use sugar for energy thanks to insufficient insulin levels. This can set off a string of dangerous consequences, including blood in the urine, dehydration and possibly even death.

* Myth: People with diabetes can't have sweets or dessert. This isn't true. In fact, a person who doesn't have diabetes needs to follow the same rules with respect to sweets or dessert that a person with diabetes must follow. Simply put, sweets, chocolate and dessert can be enjoyed in moderation when combined with a healthy diet and an exercise regimen. This does not, however, mean diabetics should not be especially careful when it comes to eating sweets or dessert. Moderation, for instance, should equate to one scoop of ice cream instead of two. Also, prepare desserts with artificial sweeteners when possible, and make desserts using whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetable oil. Oftentimes, such adjustments do not lead to less taste.

* Myth: Diabetes is contagious. Even though questions arise as to why one person gets diabetes and another does not, diabetes is not contagious. This myth is likely rooted in the suspected genetic and ethnic link to diabetes, most notably type 2 diabetes. Diabetes researchers have long believed there is a genetic link to type 2 diabetes, as it appears to run in families (though it doesn't always, and a parent with type 2 diabetes will not necessarily see all or any of his or her children develop the disease). Research into the genetic link is ongoing, but doctors remain certain diabetes is not contagious. The American Diabetes Association also notes the connection between type 2 diabetes and race. Type 2 diabetes is more common among African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. Again, however, nothing exists to indicate the disease is contagious. To learn more about diabetes, visit the American Diabetes Association Web site at www.diabetes.org.

Misinformation About HIV/AIDS Still Prevalent

On June 5, 1981, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report published a report of five cases of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia among five previously healthy young men in the Los Angeles area. Each of the men was described as homosexual, and two had already passed away.

Shortly after its publication, that report led to a response and research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Within 18 months, that research led to the definition of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Despite having been defined nearly 30 years ago, HIV/AIDS remains a mystery to many even today. Much of that mystery is thanks to fears and misinformation surrounding the disease's initial appearance in the early 1980s. In spite of advancements with respect to research and education since 1981, there are still some common misconceptions surrounding HIV/AIDS.

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the following are some of the more common misconceptions still surrounding HIV/AIDS.

* Blood transfusions or donating blood cause HIV/AIDS. While this might once have been probable, today the risk of getting HIV from receiving blood is extremely small. When blood is donated, that blood then goes through extensive testing to ensure it is safe. In addition, blood donors must undergo screening before being allowed to donate. Blood donors are also safe from the risks of getting HIV/AIDS when donating blood. That's because blood banks that accept blood use only sterile, disposable needles to draw blood, ensuring both the donor and the potential recipient the utmost safety.

* HIV can be spread through casual contact with infected persons. This was one of the more common fears throughout the 1980s, when the disease remained a mystery even to many in the medical profession. However, this fear is unfounded, as HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, holding hands, casual kissing, or sharing silverware. Simply being around someone with HIV is not a risk of getting the disease yourself. A person can only get HIV by coming into contact with the bodily fluids of someone who is already infected. It is perfectly safe to share the same air, drink from the same water fountain and use the same exercise equipment as an HIV-infected person.

* Mosquito bites can cause HIV. Many heavily mosquito-infested areas of the world also have high instances of AIDS. Naturally, then, it's common to assume that mosquitoes could play a role in the spread of HIV/AIDS. However, even after extensive research into this possible link, no evidence exists to indicate that a human being can get HIV/AIDS from a mosquito bite. When a mosquito bites a person, that mosquito is not injecting the blood of the previous person or animal it bit. In addition, studies have shown that the HIV virus lives for only a very small period of time inside an insect, again lending credence to the belief that there is no connection between mosquitoes and the spread of HIV/AIDS.

* There is a cure for HIV/AIDS. This is a growing, and potentially very dangerous, misconception surrounding HIV/AIDS. Part of this misconception is no doubt rooted in the apparent health of former basketball star Magic Johnson, who abruptly retired from the game in 1991 after announcing that he had HIV. Today, nearly two decades after that announcement, Johnson appears energetic, vibrant and, at least publicly, to not be suffering any ill effects of his HIV infection. While Johnson's case is encouraging, it does not mean there is a vaccine or cure for HIV/AIDS. Research is ongoing, but such a vaccine or cure does not yet exist. It's important to make this known, particularly among sexually active people, as the misconception that there is a cure or vaccine could possibly lead to many people acting irresponsibly.

To learn more about HIV/AIDS, visit the Department of Health and Human Services Web site at www.hhs.gov.

Learning About Lung Cancer Could Help Smokers

When it comes to personal health, more and more people have grown increasingly aware of how the choices they make today will have an impact for years to come. In addition to eating healthier, more people now include exercise in their weekly routines.

One lifestyle change many have attempted to make, with varying degrees of success, is to quit smoking. While it's often difficult and nerve wracking to stop smoking, it's certainly worth it, as the potential consequences of continuing, most notably lung cancer, should prove a strong enough motivating factor even for those who are struggling mightily to stop lighting. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), roughly 220,000 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2009, and more than 159,000 will lose their battles with lung cancer this year.

Those statistics are especially frightening when considering that many people who smoke are fully aware they are increasing their risk of lung cancer, but continue to smoke anyway. As education about lung cancer is often helpful for those attempting to quit, consider the following information if you or a loved one is attempting to make the lifestyle change that could very well someday save their life.

What is Lung Cancer?
A significant majority (roughly 99 percent) of lung cancer cases fall into two categories, which are classified based on the size of the cancerous tumor. * Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is, as its name suggests, associated with those cancers wherein the cancer cells are smaller than typical cancer cells. Instances of SCLC are less common, affecting only about 20 percent of people diagnosed with lung cancer, but their comparatively tiny stature does not make them any less harmful. In fact, these cancer cells reproduce rapidly, forming large tumors quickly. As a result of that rapid reproduction, SCLCs, which are typically the result of smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, have often spread to other parts of the body before they've even been initially diagnosed. * The most common type of lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for roughly 80 percent of all lung cancer diagnoses. NSCLCs are actually classified into three different subcategories:- squamous cell carcinomas- adenocarcinomas- large cell carcinomas Squamous cell carcinomas originate along the respiratory tract, specifically in the thin, flat cells that line the respiratory passages.

Adenocarcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed form of lung cancer, accounting for 30-40 percent of all cases. This occurs when the cells that form the lining of the lungs become cancerous. Large cell carcinomas make up about 10 percent of all cases, and are those that appear large and abnormal upon examination under a microscope.

What are the Risks for Lung Cancer?
According to the Lung Cancer Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to providing support and advocacy for those with or at risk for lung cancer, more than 85 percent of lung cancer cases are caused by smoking. Simply put, those who are still smoking are putting themselves at a heightened and ultimately unnecessary risk of lung cancer. Of the more than 4,000 chemicals contained in cigarette smoke, the majority have been linked to causing cancer. For those who are trying to quit, research has indicated that a person who quits smoking will have the same risk as a person who never smoked 15 years after quitting. That means a smoker who quits at 30 will, by the time he or she turns 45, have the same risk of lung cancer that a fellow 45-year-old who never smoked has.

But smoking isn't the only thing that increases a person's risk for lung cancer. One additional risk factor is exposure to radon, a carcinogen and byproduct of radium that is present in both indoor and outdoor air. This heightens the importance of having a home routinely tested for radon, as prolonged radon exposure increases the risk for lung cancer.

Other potential causes of lung cancer include exposure to asbestos (which can also lead to mesothelioma, a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and stomach) and exposure to cancer-causing agents in the environment.

To learn more about lung cancer or for help with quitting smoking, visit the National Cancer Institute Web site at www.cancer.gov.

5 Ways to Banish Stress Feeling a bit stressed these days?
You're not alone. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), two-thirds of all visits to a family physician are stress-related. While stress may seem like something with which everyone must cope, it's actually a very real medical condition and one that should be taken seriously. Stress can be linked to many major causes of death -- heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide.

According to HowStuffWorks.com, when under stress your brain sends messages to your body to release certain hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. The hormones cause your heart rate and blood pressure to rise, your muscles to tense up and your breathing to become short and shallow. Your digestive and immune systems shut down so that you can focus all your body's energy on the task at hand. Because the entire body can be affected by stress, it's difficult to pinpoint one symptom that can be indicative of the condition. Headaches, bodily aches and pains, insomnia, anxiety, etc. --all of these symptoms may be traced back to stress.

Stress can affect personal and professional lives. Sixty-two percent of Americans say work has a significant impact on stress levels, according to the APA, and job insecurity is a major factor. In light of mass layoffs and economic uncertainty, job stress has taken on even greater impact.

So how does one handle stress? Here are some suggestions for remaining calm.

1. Visualization: Many people find meditation or positive visualization a good way to tame stress. Envision a calm and peaceful place and take yourself there whenever you feel stress coming on. Even quietly chanting that the situation will pass soon can help calm nerves.

2. Remove yourself from the stressful situation: When possible, get away from the stress for a few moments. For example, if a work report is causing you to tear your hair out, leave the office, take a brief stroll and grab a snack. Coming back to the task rested and calm may bring a new perspective. This can also work for a parent agitated by a child. Instead of putting the child in a "time out," put yourself in one instead. Find a quiet spot (even a bathroom) and take a few deep breaths.

3. Try exercise: Exercise can be very good at pumping endorphins through the body, which provide a feel-good sensation. Exercise can also work the tension out of the body and give your mind something else to think about.

4. Do something you enjoy: Maybe you enjoy the pampering of a massage or pedicure, or the thrill of being out on the golf course. Turn your mind to a task you enjoy and take some time out to do it. A life balanced by work and enjoyable activities could be less stressful.

5. Talk to a doctor: Some bio-feedback or counseling may guide you through ways to alleviate stress. A family physician may also think it's a good idea to prescribe medication, primarily if stress is short-term from a traumatic event. You can work with doctors to develop a program that works for you and your overall health.

Stress is something everyone experiences, but can be managed with a variety of techniques.

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!

March 2010 Library News and Events

2010-03-09T10:30:00.002-05:00

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!

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS AT WALLINGORD PUBLIC LIBRARY: All of our programs are free, all of the time!

Celebrate the Irish with tom callinan In Concert!
Wednesday, March 10 7: 00 p.m. Community Room
Join us for an evening of Irish music, song, and stories with Connecticut troubadour, Tom Callinan. Tom�s talents as a singer, song-writer, and storyteller have made him one of Wallingford�s favorite performers. Young and old enjoy his traditional and original songs; and everyone gets a chance to chuckle at his corny jokes. Please contact the library to reserve your seat!

Lunch and Learn: Late-Life Depression
Thursday, March 11 11:30 a.m. Community Room
Join us for a complementary lunch and learn more about this common illness that often goes undiagnosed in up to half of older adults. Dr. Rehan Aziz, M.D. and Director of Behavior Health at Masonicare will give a talk about symptoms and treatment for late-life depression. All are welcome to this free program however, advance registration is required. Please call the library or sign up online to make your reservation. This program is co-sponsored by Masonicare.

Career Express: Get on Board!
Tuesday, March 16 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Library Parking Lot
The Career Express is the Department of Labor�s mobile one-stop career center providing the latest workforce and job skills development services to individuals across the state.

It is equipped with eight computer workstations with Internet access, the latest audio-visual systems including a plasma TV with SMARTBoard technology and a hydraulic wheelchair lift to provide full access to persons with disabilities.

Information about the DOL/CT Works Career Centers is also available. Free, professional help is available on a first-come-first-served basis. Areas of expertise include:
� Online job searches
� Career exploration
� Finding good job sites
� Interviewing
� Resume writing

Brown Bag It: Social Security and Retirement
Tuesday, March 16 12:00 p.m. Community Room
Representatives from Wells Fargo Advisors and the Social Security Administration will discuss social security, Medicare, retirement, taxes, and other issues important to you and your future. Bring your lunch and paper and pen. You�ll want to take notes! All are welcome. Beverage and light dessert will be provided. Please sign up in advance by contacting the library.

Thursday Night Book Club: West with the Night by Beryl Markham
Thursday, March 18 7:00 p.m. Collins Room
Beryl Markham was born in England in 1902. When she was about four-years-old she was taken by her father to East Africa. She spent her childhood playing with native Maruni children and apprenticing with her father as a trainer and breeder of racehorses. In the 1930s, she became an African bush pilot, and in September 1936, became the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic from east to west. West with the Night is both memoir and adventure story. Please join us for an informal discussion of Beryl Markham�s book and her interesting life. All are welcome for conversation, refreshment, and reader fellowship! A limited number of copies of the book are available from the Information Desk and from our library catalog.

Saturday Mornings with Poetry
Saturday, March 13: Irish Poetry and Saturday, March 27: Women�s Poetry
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Board Room
All are welcome to attend and share their original poetry and writing experiences with fellow poets and poetry lovers. Special features this month: In celebration of St. Patrick�s Day, Irish Poetry on March 13; and in celebration of National Women�s History Month, Women�s Poetry Mini-Festival on March 27.

Women�s History Month, Celebrating over 100 Years of Public Service: Presented by the Cheshire/Wallingford League of Women Voters
Wednesday, March 24 7:00 p.m. Community Room
Please call the library for program details.

The English Lady: Garden Earth Lecture
Wednesday, March 31 7:00 p.m. Community Room
We are delighted to present renowned landscaper and radio personality, Maureen Haseley-Jones: The English Lady. Learn how to reconnect with nature through mindful gardening. �The English Lady� is heard regularly on WRCH Radio Lite 100.5 FM. Please reserve your seat early! All attending will have the chance to win a laminated landscape plan.

MARCH COMPUTER CLASSES
Intermediate Word 2007 Tuesday, March 23 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Board Room
Take your word processing skills to the next level in our Intermediate Word 2007 class. You will learn how to insert images and tables as well as work with headers and footers. Class size is limited to 6, so please sign up early. You may register in person, online at www.wallingford.lioninc.org, or by calling the library at 203-265-6754.

COMPUTER TUTORING SESSIONS Thursday evenings: 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
One-on-one computer tutoring sessions are available at the Main Library on Thursday evenings. Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard or mouse skills, word processing, Internet searching, online job applications, or e-mail. Please call the Library or stop by the Information Desk for more details or to register for a session.

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY FREE MOVIE EVENTS

Friday Night Flicks: Twilight: New Moon
Friday, March 26 6:30 p.m. Community RoomIn the second installment of Stephenie Meyer�s phenomenally successful Twilight series, the romance between mortal and vampire soars to a new level as Bella Swan delves deeper into the mysteries of the supernatural world she yearns to become part of - only to find herself in greater peril than ever before. Rated PG.

AUTHOR EVENT: SAVE THE DATE FOR BINNIE KLEIN!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
7:00 p.m. in the Community Room
Binnie Klein, author of �Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed My Mind�
Don�t miss this opportunity to meet a mid-life female psychotherapist who picked up a pair of boxing gloves for the first time and forever changed her life!

NEWS FROM WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY:

VISIT OUR BOOK SHOP: The Book Seller
The Book Seller at the Wallingford Public Library, 200 North Main Street, Wallingford offers gently used books, CDs, DVDs, videos and other materials for children, teens and adults. The expanded space is located in back of the library with plenty of room to browse. Look for the green awning. Store hours as follows:
Monday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

NEW HELP FOR JOB SEEKERS JOB NOW: Live Job Assistance
Wallingford Public Library has an exciting new service for job seekers and career changers: JobNow. This unique online service gives job seekers on-demand access to trained career coaches and job resources. JobNow�s free professional services are available on any of our public Internet computers; ask for more information at the Information Desk. Wallingford Library cardholders can also access JobNow from home by linking to http://main.wallingford.clc.jobnow.brainfuse.com. Job seekers should register for an account after using their Wallingford Library card to enter the site. JobNow is the first service of its kind to provide live career coaching from any computer with Internet access. Services available are live interview coaching, with interview tips and resources; a resume lab with sample templates, along with resume analysis within 24 hours by a JobNow expert; assistance with writing cover letters; and a career resource library that includes links to current job openings locally and nationally, as well as career and personality assessment instruments.

ADAPTIVE COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
The Library now offers adaptive technology for our patrons with vision impairment. If you are interested in learning more, ask about the trackball mouse, large print keyboard, and iZoom screen magnifier/reader. They are available in the Adult Computer area. We also have an Optelec video magnifier for anyone wishing to manipulate the size of print while reading books, magazines, and newspapers. It is located by the Periodicals Area of the adult section.

CELL PHONE RECYCLING AND DON�T FORGET THE EYEGLASSES!
Remember that you can bring in your old cell phones for recycling. Drop them in the box near the copier across from the Circulation Desk. The Library receives a percentage for each phone. Thanks! Eyeglasses can be recycled too. The Lions Club collects all the eyeglasses collected at the library.

Just Fax It!
In response to popular demand, we have installed a self-service public fax machine next to the photocopier by the Circulation Desk. It transmits faxes for $1.50 per page with a credit or debit card, but does not receive faxes. Librarians at the Information Desk can help you get started.

LIBRARY FIND OF THE MONTH: Psychic Women in History
Sisters Maggie and Katie Fox (the �Rochester Rappers�), cracked their toe joints against the floor as they conjured up the �dear departed.� The year, 1848! In the ensuing decades, millions in the U.S. and abroad followed the careers of the Fox sisters, Madame Blatvartsky, Eva Bissono, and other female psychics. You can read all about these fascinating ladies from books at the Wallingford Public Library. Come in and take a look at The Spiritualists by Ruth Brandon (133.90973 BRA), Lily Dale: the true Story of a Town that Talks to the Dead by Christine Wicker (133.9097 WIC), or A World Beyond (133.93 Montgomery) and Here and Hereafter (291.23 Montgomery) both by Ruth Montgomery.

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MARCH PROGRAMS AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

ONCE BANNED, NOW CLASSIC BOOK DISCUSSION MARCH 23
Meriden Public Library and the Connecticut Humanities Council�s discussion series �Once banned, now classic� continues this month. On March 23, 2010 at 6:30 pm in the Griffin Room, �Native Son� by Richard Wright will be discussed. The final discussion in the series will be held on Tuesday, April 27, 2010 and the featured selection is �The Awakening� by Kate Chopin.

Copies of the books are available at the Library. The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to sign up for participation in the book discussion series.

SCRABBLE AT MERIDEN LIBRARY
The Meriden Public Library will be holding Scrabble sessions on Monday, March 8 and March 22 at 2:00 pm in the Friends Room.Come to practice or learn the game. Everyone is invited. If you have any questions about this or other programs at the library, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email us at comsvc@hotmail.com or stop by at any session.

WRITERS NETWORK MEETS MARCH 9 AND MARCH 24
The Writers Network will meet at Meriden Public Library on Tuesday, March 9 at 7:00 pm in the Friends Room and on Wednesday, March 24 at 7:00 pm in the Griffin Room. Anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter is welcome to attend. The Writers Network is for anyone who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about any library program.

PICTURES OF OLD MERIDEN MARCH 10
The Meriden Historical Society and Meriden Public Library will be presenting �Pictures of Old Meriden� in the Griffin Room on Wednesday, March 10 at 6:30 pm. View and help identify old structures, scenes and streets of Meriden.
This program is free and all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and select �Adult programs� to reserve a seat.

THURSDAY LUNCH TIME BOOK CLUB AT MERIDEN LIBRARY
Meriden Public Library�s lunch time book club continues on Thursday, March 11 at noon in the Seminar Room. Bring your bag lunch and enjoy some great discussions. All are welcome. The book that will be discussed in March 11 is Kabul Beauty School by Deborah Rodriguez. Copies are available at the Meriden Library.

The schedule for the next few months will be as follows:
April 15 � The Sari Shop Widow by Shobhan Bantwal
May 13 � The Reader by Bernard Schlink
June 10 � Lit: a memoir by Mary Karr

Contact the Community Services at (203) 630-6349 or email comsvc@hotmail.com to join the book club.

HEALTHY COOKING WITH KIDS MARCH 16
�My City Kitchen� with Kashia Cave invites children between the ages of 6 to 17 to come to the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room on Tuesday, March 16 from 4:00 to 5:30 pm to take part in the program �Healthy Cooking With Kids.� Ms. Cave will be presenting a cooking demonstration that will show children how to make healthy choices in food that are delicious. Recipes and samples will be available at the end of the program. The program is free but seating is limited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and select �Adult programs� to reserve a seat.

SCRAPBOOKING ON A SHOESTRING MARCH 22
Have you ever wanted to scrapbook but felt you couldn�t afford it? Well, now you can! Com to Meriden Public Library�s Friends Room on Monday, March 22 from 5:15 to 8:00 pm and use our tools. You will have access to a die cut machine, decorative scissors, paper cutter, corner rounder, and stencils. Bring your photos, pages, an adhesive, and pens. Free handouts will be available and there will be a free
demonstration on how to shape up your scrapbook.

This free program is one of three to give you an opportunity to get those photos in an album once and for all. The other two programs will be held April 26 and May 24 in the Griffin Room. Registration is requested and free paper will be provided for those who pre-register by calling the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or sign up online at www.meridenlibrary.org under �Adult events.�

A TRIP THROUGH THE GI TRACT MARCH 22
Join Dr. Thomas Jung from Midstate Medical Center on Monday, March 22 at 6:30 pm in the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room for �A Trip Through the GI Tract.� Dr. Jung will cover the signs, symptoms, and treatments of everything from acid reflux to diverticulitis and much more. The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and select �Adult programs� to reserve a seat.

ANIME CLUB MEETS MARCH 26
The Teen Anime Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Friday, March 26th at 3:00 pm. We will be watching an anime based on the manga series, Tsubasa written by the female group Clamp. This program is for teens ages 13-18. Snacks will be provided. Sign up through our website at www.meridenlibrary.org or at the Information Desk. If you have any questions please call Melissa at (203) 238-2346

ACOUSTIC GUITARIST PROGRAM MARCH 27
Guitarist Peter Biedermann will be performing on Saturday, March 27 at 2:00 pm in the Meriden Public Library Griffin Room.. Mr. Biedermann is a guitarist that has been writing and performing original instrumental music for over 30 years. While his music covers a number of genres in the electronic and acoustic fields, the performance on the afternoon of Saturday, March 27th will focus on original acoustic fingerstyle pieces in unique tunings on various 6 and 12 string guitars. The program is free and all are welcome. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and select �Adult programs� to reserve a seat.

EDIBLE BOOK FESTIVAL MARCH 31
Calling all readers and bakers! Do you have a favorite book? Show off your creativity by bringing an edible book creation to the Meriden Public Library�s Edible Book Festival on Wednesday, March 31 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Bring in an edible creation that has something to do with books or is book shaped. It could represent the theme, title, or book cover of your favorite book. It can be made of cake, cookies, candy, nuts � whatever, as long as it is edible as we will be sampling your creation. This program is free and all are welcome to enjoy the edible books. The edible books will be sampled at 7:00 pm. Coffee and tea will be provided. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about this festival and wish to sign up.

FREE ACT/SAT PRACTICE TEST APRIL 3
Would you like to take a practice SAT or ACT test? Kaplan Test Prep will be holding a practice test session at the Meriden Public Library on Saturday, April 3 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Griffin Room. The test is free. Reserve a seat by contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or visit the library�s website at www.meridenlibrary.org and select �Adult programs� to reserve a seat.

BOOKMOBILE SCHEDULE
The Bookmobile, or Library on Wheels, will be visiting the following facilities in March:

Monday, Mar. 1 � Midstate Christian Academy 10:15 to 11:30 AM;

Tuesday, Mar. 2 � Lil� Rascals 9:15 to 10:00 AM;

Wed. Mar. 3 � Head Start (Liberty St.) 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM;

Thursday, Mar. 4 � Kindercare 9:30 to 10:15 AM; The Right Place 10:30 to 11:00 AM; Connecticut Baptist Home (box drop-off) 3:00 to 3:30 PM;

Friday, Mar. 5 � St. Stan�s 9:30 to 10:15 AM; Meriden Center 10:30 to 11:30 AM;

Tuesday, Mar. 9 � Sunshine Daycare 10:15 to 10:45 AM;

Wed. Mar. 10 � Easter Seals (Broad St.) 9:00 to 10:00 AM; St. John�s 10:10 to 10:45 AM; Bradley Home 11:00 to 11:30 AM;

Thursday, Mar. 11 � YMCA Kid�s Campus 9:15 to 10:00 AM; St. John�s 10:15 to 11:00 AM; St. John�s 1:00 to 1:30 PM; YMCA Kid�s Campus 1:45 to 2:00 PM;

Friday, Mar. 12 � Stork Club 9:30 to 10:30 AM; Miller Memorial 10:45 to 11:30 AM;

Monday, Mar. 15 � Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 to 10:00 AM; Women & Families Center 10:15 to 11:30 AM; Village at Kensington Place 1:30 to 2:00 PM;

Tuesday, Mar. 16 � Catholic Charities 9:00 to 10:00 AM; Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:15 to 11:00 AM;

Thursday, Mar. 18 � Kindercare 9:30 to 10:15 AM; The Right Place 10:30 to 11:00 AM;

Friday, Mar. 19 � Carriage House Day Care 9:30 to 10:15 AM; Meriden Child Care Center 10:30 to 11:30 AM;

Monday, Mar. 22 � Midstate Christian Academy 10:15 to 11:30 AM;

Wed. Mar. 24 � First Congregational Nursery School 9:15 to 10:15 AM and 1:00 to 1:30 PM;

Thursday, Mar. 25 � First Congregational Nursery School 9:15 to 10:15 AM;

Friday, Mar. 26 � St. Stan�s 9:30 to 10:15 AM; Curtis Home 10:30 to 11:00 AM;

Tuesday, Mar. 30 � Lil� Rascals 9:15 to 9:45 AM; Sunshine Daycare 10:15 to 10:45 AM;

Wed. Mar. 31 � Easter Seals (Broad St.) 9:00 to 10:00 AM; Bradley Home 10:15 to 10:45 AM.

SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY DURING SPRING VACATION WEEK
In Celebration of National Library Week and Spring Vacation Week, Meriden Public Library will be presenting children's programs for all ages.On Tuesday April 13th at 10:30 AM. Come party, dance,and sing along with "Harry Gambardella". Harry brings his own party and you will sure to have a great time!On Wednesday April 14 at 11:00 AM. Watch in amazement, smile and laugh along with Meriden's own "Willy The Clown". Tickets will be available on April 1st. Stop by the Children's Library to pick up your tickets or call us for more information at (203) 630-6347.

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!

February 2010 Issue Now On-Line

2010-02-05T09:53:00.001-05:00

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Your Stories February 2010

2010-02-05T09:48:00.002-05:00

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Jennifer�s House of Hair and St. Baldrick�s
St. Baldrick�s began as a casual conversation between friends and has exploded into the world's largest volunteer-driven fundraising event for childhood cancer research, which started in 1999. Thousands of volunteers shave their heads in solidarity of children with cancer, while requesting donations of support from friends and family. Tens of thousands of volunteers make St. Baldrick's happen, with the leadership of a board of directors and the support of a small staff. Volunteers organize each event, coached and equipped by the Foundation.

Every year more than 160,000 children around the world are diagnosed with cancer. In the US cancer kills more than any other disease, and because childhood cancers are different from adult�s cancers, the research must be specific to kids.

I was never aware of just how many children are affected by cancer and the research needs for children are different from adults. Curing cancer in children is so very important because they are the future. St. Baldrick�s being a volunteer based organization not only provides monies, it helps people realize, and become involved in something that they may not other wise be part of.

The St. Baldrick�s Foundation has made more than 200 grants totaling over $41 million for childhood cancer research since 2005, its first year as a foundation. In 2009 alone, over $12 million was funded � more than by any other foundation making grants for research to cure childhood cancers.

Just as the St. Baldrick�s community bands together to raise funds, the childhood cancer research community works together to find cures. In fact, childhood cancer led the way in creating �cooperative research groups� and as a result, children who had almost no chance of survival fifty years ago now have a survival rate of over 80%.

How we wish that statistic applied to all kids with cancer! Some types of the disease remain extremely hard to cure, and many treatments come with a steep price in life-long damage or risk to bodies and minds.
To cure even the most difficult cancers and improve the quality of life for every survivor, we need to do more than fund the experts of today. We need to encourage the best and brightest new doctors to choose childhood cancer research as a career. The truth is, other medical specialties often pay more, and pediatric cancer is not for the weak of heart.

In addition to the enthusiasm of participants and the generosity of donors, the St. Baldrick�s Foundation is grateful for the many childhood cancer researchers who give freely of their time and expertise � and sometimes their very hair!

We are honored to work with some of the most cutting-edge doctors and scientists in the world to see that every donor dollar is funding the most important research � the kind that will save precious young lives.

Jennifer�s House of Hair will be teaming up with DW Catering in hosting its 2nd �A Bash for Baldness�, which will be held at the salon, 437 Broad Street, Meriden. It will be held on Saturday, February 27th from 5p.m to 9p.m. We have local businesses, dedicated clients and friends that are going to be sponsoring tables of various types of beer and wine. We also paired up with DW Catering who will be cooking an assortment of hearty comfort foods, as people walk around and socialize. There will be music, a 50/50 drawing, Lucky Lotto Tree drawings, and lots of mingling! Tickets will be $22 per person. All 100% of the proceeds collected that night will be donated to the St. Baldrick�s Foundation. If you have any questions about this event please call the salon at 203.235.3166.

Jennifer�s House of Hair will also be collecting donations at the salon. You can stop by the salon and buy a St. Baldrick�s Circle, either in honor or in memory of someone.

We regret to inform you that we will not be shaving at the main event hosted by Quality Time on March 6th, 2010. Instead we will be attending the International Beauty Show in NYC that weekend to continue our education. We wish the Meriden Fire Dept. & Quality Time good luck at their event!
Be a Hero for kids with cancer!

Peoples Press February 2010
South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department is its 102 year of service to the Village of South Meriden and the City of Meriden. In 2009 the department responded to 760 calls of service to the community.

Point of information about the calls in 2009, approximately 69 % of the calls responded to where medicals and Motor Vehicle Accidents.

Health Tips
We urge all our residence to be careful during the winter months with shoveling snow. Take it easy do not over do it. Use a good shovel and do not over load it when you lift it. Also for those of you that have snow blowers please be extremely careful not to put your hands near the blades of the blower unit while it is running. You might say who would do that, but each year Meriden's emergency service responders respond to several of these calls each year and it isn't a pretty sight so please take precautions.

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 clearing away the snow from their walkways or driveway. It feels real good to be able to help them out during the winter months. Each year we lose friends and neighbors to heart attacks during the winter months from over exerting themselves shoveling snow.

We also want to thank all of our friends that have been helping clearing snow and ice a way from fire hydrants during storms. 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.
Do to the amount of snow we have been receiving, we still need your continuing help with clearing fire hydrants

Another 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.

Membership Information
We are currently accepting applications for membership for individuals who live in Meriden over the age of 18 in good health and have a clean police records and can pass the application process. We are also accepting application for those individuals who might all ready be certified as a State of CT Firefighter/EMT and do not live in Meriden but are willing to fill night crew positions at our station. These individuals will need to meet our by-law requirements for drills, weekly night crew and duty crew assignments.

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.

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.

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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AUTOBIOGRAPHY
OF LUKE (CORY) JASINSKI

My name is Luke (Corey) Jasinski and I am a Welsh Corgi, Cardigan Mix, at least that�s what I�ve been told.

My story begins in the little town of Murphy, NC which is a town of approx. 1,600 people as of the year 2000, located in Cherokee County, along the Hiwassee River in the western most part of NC right near the border of GA.

They say I was born on or about October 8, 2006, but of course, I don�t remember that.
I am primarily black in color with brown mixed in and I have some white on my chest and the tip of my tail, which I can�t stand and try to chase it every now and then. I also have white paws and have been told that I am a very handsome fellow.

My life has not been an easy one until recently. The Valley River Humane Society in Murphy had to rescue me from my owner, who was an elderly woman that hoarded animals but could not care for them properly. I lived in deplorable conditions and never had enough to eat. I rummaged through any garbage that was lying around to try and find enough food to survive. I lived in a house in the mountains of NC with 110 other dogs. Most of the other dogs I lived with were small dogs also, such as Chihuahua�s and Shih Tzu�s, but there were three (3) larger dogs in the basement. There were several lady dogs that were going to have puppies, but I can�t say whether or not I am the father of any of them. There were also about eight (8) puppies running around, which were annoying at times.

After being rescued from the house, I was brought to the Valley River Humane Society where I would spend the next several months, waiting for someone to take me home. It seemed as if no one wanted me, of course, I wasn�t much to look at. I was full of fleas and wasn�t very sociable and was always hungry. The Humane Society took care of me as much as possible, but with 110 other dogs to look after, my care was not a priority for them. I was finally shipped north to a Humane Society in Westport, CT. There I was cleaned up, vaccinated, and tested for several different things. I guess they found out that I had contracted a few things from the house I was living in, as I was given an anti-biotic to kill whatever it was. They also operated on me to make sure that I wouldn�t get any more females pregnant. That was probably the most painful thing I have had to endure.

I thought to myself that no one would want me up here either and I resigned myself to the fact that my days might be numbered. I made friends with the young girls that were working at the Humane Society and I looked forward to seeing them when it was time to eat. They had quite a few other animals here in CT also and many of them barked a lot and kept me awake. I was treated nicely and the food was good, but I never seemed to be satisfied with the amount they gave me. They say that I can�t have too much because of my shape. If I get too heavy, my back will start giving me problems. I don�t understand any of that, but it must be true.

The Humane Society in CT took my picture and put it on the computer, whatever that is?
I was only in CT a short time, when two people came in and started talking about me. They seemed interested in me, but I didn�t want anything to do with them. I was polite in the beginning and they came into my cage and started talking to me and petting me. One of my young female attendants took me from my cage and put me in a room with these two people, expecting me to get to know them. How silly is that? I totally ignored them and kept looking out the window in the door for my pretty female attendant to come back. I even peed the floor hoping that they would get disgusted and leave, but they didn�t. These two people kept trying to get my attention and forced me to sit with them for a few moments. I tried to ignore them, hoping that they would go away, but they didn�t. After awhile, my attendant came back and I was very excited. However, I soon learned that these two people were serious about wanting me. I didn�t know anything about these two and I was hoping that my attendant would play with me. But before I knew it, these two people were signing papers and my attendant was putting a collar and leash on me for these people to take me away. I didn�t know what was going on or where I was going.

I was taken outside, where I relieved myself. I do that a lot, as I am an Alfa male and like to mark my territory. Well, anyway, these people were pulling me towards a vehicle and telling me to get inside. Reluctantly, I got into their car and we started driving away from the shelter. I kept looking back, but realized that I might never see that place again. Now I was scarred and didn�t know what to expect. These people seemed nice enough, but what kind of a place were they taking me to. It was a long drive to their home and I knew that I would probably never find my way back to the shelter again.

We finally arrived at this little house way down in the back yard of a larger house that was out front. I wasn�t use to such a small house, other than the cages that I recently occupied. The house in NC was much larger than this but there didn�t seem to be any other animals around. This was very strange as I was use to being around other animals all of my life. After living with 110 other dogs and then going to two different shelters where there were other animals, it seemed rather quiet. I soon learned that there were two big dogs living next door and they liked to bark. They must have heard me as I was walking toward the house because they started barking at me through the fence that separated our yards.

Once inside the house, I had to check everything out. I found out that it was as small on the inside as it was on the outside. There were only three (3) rooms and there were no other animals in the house. This was kind of hard to get use to. Who would I play with during the day and where would I sleep? I wondered what kind of people these were? Would they yell at me and beat me if I didn�t do what they wanted me to do?

I was given some food and water, which of course, was never enough, but I ate it all and then decided to see what would happen if I went pee. I urinated on their rug and on their curtain, but soon learned that they were not going to put up with any of that. I was quickly put on a leash and taken outside to do my thing. It took some time, but I finally learned the rules and things steadily improved. I was taken out several times a day by the male of the house. He seemed to take control and I couldn�t get away with much when he was around. The female on the other hand was very loving and I could get almost anything I wanted from her. I mostly let her mush me and give me a back and neck rub. Boy, there isn�t anyone who does it better than her.

These two people genuinely cared about me and I eventually took to them. They bought me several different kinds of food, but they didn�t know that I had allergies and couldn�t have grain. It took a while, but they figured it out and changed my food and I am starting to get better. When you have allergies, as I did, your paws itch and you have to bite them all the time. Because of that, my paws smelled terrible and that�s when they smartened up and tried to find what made me stink.

They pamper me quite a bit, and I get to sleep on the bed with them at night. My dad bought me a furry toy that they call �ducky.� It squeaks and I really enjoy it as it is the first toy I�ve ever owned that I didn�t have to fight for. I also have my own blanket, which my mom & dad bought me for Christmas. I also have my own bed and they cover me over at night as they like to keep the heat off in the bedroom at night and it gets a little cold by morning. I usually lay on the couch with my mom, that�s what I think of her as now, and she will usually give me my nightly back and neck rub. It is so relaxing and I just curl up in her lap and sleep until it�s time to go to bed. During the day, my mom goes to work and I miss her a lot. My dad, as I now think of him, usually feeds me and plays with me during the day and we go for walks in the woods every now and then. I usually bug my dad to the point that he will take me for a walk in the yard several times a day. I�m still not use to being alone and I get bored very easy. Whenever my mom and dad are away, I try to find some trouble to get into. I am very agile and like to see what�s on the counter. Sometimes I get lucky and find some type of food that was left out and I tear it open and eat whatever it is before they come home. Sometimes things are wrapped up and I don�t know what�s in them until I tear them open. Most of the time it turns out not to be food and then I know I�m in trouble. I usually get scolded for being bad, but it doesn�t last long and for the most part, it�s worth it.

I really love my new home now and the two people that took me in are very nice people. They are Christians and are very involved with their church. They plan on starting a ministry and traveling around the country showing Christian films. They told me that I will be an important part of their ministry, but I may have to wear a silly backpack and carry tracks and lollipops. I just hope they give me one once in a while for all the work I will have to do. I will be helping them start conversations with people and will be inviting them to see the movie. I think it will be very exciting. I will get to travel a lot and will meet many new people and hopefully some new female dog friends.

I hope that you have enjoyed my story and I look forward to meeting with some of you and sharing more of my life with you in the future. I want to thank my dad for typing this story up as I haven�t learned how to type yet.

LUKE (Corey) JASINSKI

By the way, this is me, Luke (Corey) Jasinski

I live with my new mom & dad
James & Bessie Jasinski

I can be contacted at my mom & dad�s ministry address, which is:

MobileFilmMinistry@gmail.com

I hope you will write and let me know if you enjoyed my story. My dad hopes that the People�s Press News will print the story so that more people will know about me.
I sure hope that there aren�t too many stories like mine out there, as I wouldn�t want other dogs to have to go through what I went through. But I had a happy ending and I know that other dogs have similar stories also.

THANK YOU! AND GOD BLESS!

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!

ROBERT MILES AND DAVID S. MILES

I was in the Army for four years, one-and-a-half years on The Aleutian Islands in the Pacific. The wind was so bad we dug our huts in the ground. If we built them on top of the ground, the wind would have blown them away. There was snow all the time. We had to be dug out every day so we could go to the mess hall. It was cold but we had everything we needed to keep us warm. The weather was nice in July, but mostly it was cold and dark as the sun didn't come up. We learned a lot, and we came home.

My Mother was a 5 star mother with 5 sons in the service. We all came home except my brother David. The American Legion Hall in Oxford is named for him. He went down on the ship, the U.S.A.T. Dorchester with the Four Chaplains who have become quite famous.

Note: I knew Bob Miles in Grammar School. We met again recently at our 60th Seymour High School Class Reunion where Bob shared his experience in the Aleutian Islands during World War II.

.....Below, I quote from a news clip from The Advisor, dated February 13, 1996. The Advisor is published weekly in North Haven, Connecticut..

FOUR CHAPLAINS' MEMORIAL DAY PROCLAIMED IN NORTH HAVEN

Last week I was pleased to join with Wally Bassett, Religious Emphasis Chairman and Americanism Chairman. and the entire Murray Reynolds Post 76 American Legion in commemorating Four Chaplains' Day in North Haven. A special Memorial service took place at the Recreational Center on February 8th.

At the ceremony we recalled the account of the Four Chaplains' heroic sacrifices. On February 3, 1943, the U.S.A.T.. Dorchester, with 900 passengers, was torpedoed by an enemy submarine in the Atlantic Ocean, about one hundred miles off the coast of Greenland. The Dorchester was ill-equipped, with only twenty usable lifeboats and an inadequate supply of life jackets. Understanding that their own lives would not be saved, the Four Chaplains distributed the limited gear to their fellow seamen. They are credited with saving the lives of about 200 men.

The last survivors recalled this terrifying experience. Their final observation is that of the Four Chaplains submerged in the ocean, with their arms linked in prayer as the U.S.A.T. Dorchester went down in a blaze of steam and fire.

The Four Chaplains, representing different faiths, were united in their self-sacrifice, compassion and humanity. The Four Chaplains are First Lieutenant, Reverend Clark V. Poling, Dutch Reformist; First Lieutenant, Reverend George I. Fox, Methodist; First Lieutenant, Rabbi Alexander D. Goode, and Father Johnny P. Washington, a Catholic Priest.

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!

One For the Giver

Well, the holidays have taken a break for awhile, yet El Nino, this time, says winter is still with us. It's very confusing at times and hard to adjust to. There are a few things, however, that remain constant. One thing comes to mind is a recent birthday of a matriarch here in Meriden. A woman who has guided me from my childhood to present times. Withstanding the "test of time," this creative contributor of many diverse writings remains very much a survivor. With good care, she still looks forward to each and every day. Visitors, friends and relatives come by to take a bit of wisdom and the time spent with her serves her well. After all, she has given so very much throughout her on going life. The Record-Journal and yes, The People's Press as well as a host of other avenues for the written word have benefited from her writing. Keep in mind, this has been going on for almost a century! So, with this, let me give a birthday wish to Helen Dodge offered by her youngest son. Keep going Mom! You're good for Meriden and an inspiration to all who know you.
D.A. Dodge
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A TALE OF THE QUINNIPIAC RIVER

by Francis W. Lappert

According to Connecticut maps of the river systems of Connecticut, the Quinnipiac River originates in the north reaches of Plainville and empties into the Sound in East Haven Harbor. It has many feeder streams that empty into it, and keeps a well-balanced, level running water. Beginning with Southington, I know of Eight-Mile River and also Misery Brook. Then comes Ten-Mile River that originates in west Cheshire and joins the Quinnipiac in Mildale. Also Honey Pot Brook from Cheshire. Farther downstream is Ives Brook that begins above Johnson Avenue in Meriden. Also the overflow from Broad Brook Reservoir feeds the river. As the river flows through Meriden, it is joined by Harbor Brook, which flows into Hanover Pond, which is part of the river. I know of only one from Wallingford, Meeting House Brook. There are others I do not know about.
Since I was a young lad, I fished many of these smaller streams and caught many native brook trout. At this time the Quinnipiac River was not known as having any trout in it. That came much later. The river then was clean enough to swim in. Our favorite spot was call Charlie�s Rock, and we went there often. I remember when the river froze over in the winter, there was a group of men that would cut a large hole in the ice by Red Bridge and jump in the cold water. They called themselves the Polar Bears. They enjoyed showing off to the crowd who watched them.

In later years the State Board of Fisheries decided to stock trout in the river from Carpenter�s Dam down to Red Bridge. The fishermen in our area were quite happy about this. Shortly after, several fishermen from Meriden got together and formed the Quinnipiac River Water Association. I was invited to join the organization and was elected to represent Meriden on the commission. We had members from Southington, Cheshire, Meriden, Wallingford, and also North Haven. Our goal was to clean up as much of the river as we could and to improve the quality of the water.

Mike Roberts was also one of the group representing Meriden and was responsible for getting donations from all the towns to keep the organization going, and also getting new members to join. The State Board of Fisheries now stocks the river with a good many rainbow, brown, and brook trout.

The Meriden Rod and Gun Club also helps by putting many large sized trout in the river, and tags them so that when someone catches one, he will get a prize from one of the bait stores.
When the fishing starts in April, it is hard to find a likable place to fish as some of the fishermen set up camp the night before in their favorite spot. I do not go there on opening day, as it is too crowded.

I have been informed that the State is now stocking trout in the river from Yalesville to Wallingford, and a few fishermen have caught some nice trout from here.
I hope some day in the future the quality of the water in the river is made suitable for swimming also. I would like to see Hanover Pond dredged and made suitable for boating and swimming.believe...

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Chinese New Year of the Tiger
by Dorothy Gonick

The first new moon of the year signaled the beginning of another Chinese New Year. This is a very special celebration for me because I was born during the last Year of the Tiger.

I wanted everything to be ready, and had been glad to help Mother and Grandmother clean our house thoroughly to get rid of any bad fortune that might be hiding. When all was spotless we put away the brooms and brushes so we wouldn�t sweep away any of the good luck that would arrive. We�ve also put away knives and scissors so we wouldn�t cut away our good fortune. Vases of lovely plum blossoms make our carved chest even more beautiful. I�ve arranged bowls of golden oranges and trays of fruits and candies on our polished chest ready for welcoming our visitors. Father has hung red scrolls of �Good Luck� to decorate our doorways. Red is our symbol for happiness and the color red also scares away evil spirits. We have new red clothing ready to wear as we greet the New Year.

On New Year�s Eve we celebrated with many relatives by feasting on the traditional seafood, dumplings and special delicacies that Mother, Grandmother and my Aunts had prepared. Grandfather has taped the doors closed with red tape to prevent bad luck entering and everyone stayed awake until we would hear fireworks exploding at midnight. There was much talk about all the good times we would have during the next 15 days. We had fun playing games with our cousins and listening to our aunts tell fortunes while we waited for the fireworks. My fortune concerned the Tiger and how it would affect me. The tiger is the Chinese sign that wards off the three main disasters of a household: fire, thieves and ghosts. The tiger is one of the most beautiful animals with its golden fur and contrasting stripes, and its graceful movements. It is both feared and revered and can be gentle or quick-tempered. The tiger has great courage and is brave.

The tigress is a loving mother and tender-hearted. People born in this year will be respectful, smart,
good friends and natural leaders. They are optimistic and independent, often preferring to work alone. Sometimes they will get bored and lose interest if not challenged in their occupation. I was cautioned to keep these stories in mind and choose to become like the revered one: respectful, courageous and to strive for a good life. Suddenly, loud fireworks exploded and Father tore the red tape off the doorway and we all hurried out with our noisemakers to greet our friends and neighbors and wish them a Happy New Year! We raced with our friends up and down the street, making lots of noise and merriment while watching the beautiful colors exploding in the sky. I was sorry when the excitement came to an end.

The last 15 days have been wonderful. We�ve visited our relatives and friends and got many red envelopes of �lucky money�, and ate the candies and fruits we were offered. Yum! I liked giving gifts to the visitors who came to our home and offered them sweets too. We visited the temple and prayed for good health and much fortune. Each day was special as we waited for the 15th night; the Lantern Festival!! This was a very special night. I had a fancy lantern to carry and wave when we watched the Dragon dancing along the street. The fierce-looking dragon was made of bamboo, paper and silk and the young men holding it up roared and made fierce moves as they wound along the way. I waved my lantern at it as it passed by. It was such an exciting way to end the New Year.

______________________________________________________________________________ Brownstone Exploration and Discovery Park

This absolutely makes my list of Great places to visit! The setting is amazing, a Brownstone quarry in Portland, CT that had been active from as early as the1690�s, is on the U.S. National Register of Historic and is an U.S. National Historic Landmark. The Brownstone keeps the water warm and the depth keeps the water clean. The staff keeps it fun. Brownstone offers adventure in every corner; SCUBA, zip lining, wakeboarding with lessons and for the more capable riders with their own board and helmet they have added both jumps and rails that will put some lift into your freestyle boarding. They also offer kayaking, cliff jumping, and inflatable climbing obstacles. Coming soon; more zip lines, rock climbing and repelling.

We stayed and played all day and I still had to drag them out of there as the park was closing for the evening at 7 pm. I would absolutely recommend this for adventurous kids age 8 and over though there is no age minimum for most activities. I had my six year old with us and he was able to do everything but wakeboard and SCUBA- we�ll save those for next time. It�s perfect for tweens, teens, young adults and mature adults who are still begging for an adrenaline rush and don�t mind a physical challenge to get it. In the words of my six year old, �This place rocks!�

Kid�s quotes

The staff was very friendly. I loved jumping off the cliff and the water slide was awesome!
Sierra Age 10

There was a zip line (70 feet off the water�s surface with a line 750 feet to the other side of the quarry) that was awesome-it took a really, really long time (in line) but it was really cool, �extreemo dreamo�! The slide, if you jump onto it you slide down super fast and land in the water �splash�! I did not jump off the big cliff (30ft) or the medium cliff (20ft) because it was too scary. I had fun on the little cliff (10ft) jumping off.
Shaunessy Age 6

Brownstone was great. There were these (cliff) jumps near this big slide (100ft ?)- they were really high (20 and 30ft). You have to jump onto the slide and it will blast you really fast into the water. Above the slide is a zip-line ride. You have to climb a cargo net ladder to the top of a (three story- 40ft) tower. It took a really long time in line. When you get to the bottom you bounce onto the water (land in the water) then swim the rest of the way backstroke (about 20ft) to the ladder and a person unhooks you.
Joshua Age 8

Have you ever been to Brownstone? I have and I think it is a really cool site to visit. There are many water activities like the ice berg. The ice berg is like a climbing wall, but in the water, and then you jump off of it once you reach the top of it. It is really fun. Then there is another fun activity where someone jumps on the mat to make the person at the other end launch up into the air. I had the life guard launch me it was so much fun. Then there was a water trampoline. However before I got there it popped so I didn�t get to go on it. They also had some cliffs you could jump off of. They had 10ft, 20f, and 30ft. I only jumped off of the 1000ft one. There is also a slide that is just a tarp, but is really fun. Then there is also a zip line that you could go down� it landed in the water, like every thing else. The ride is so fun there is a 2 and a half our wait, and first you had to climb a big cargo net. If you didn�t want to go on any fancy stuff you could just swim in the 65+ft lake (with a life jacket at all times.) Overall I would give Brownstone a 10! I would go back to Brownstone any day!
Caitlin Age 11

Extras and Important things to know:

**Scuba is included in the Adventure Sports Pass but equipment rental is extra- the Scuba Package; cylinder, weights, hood, gloves, wetsuit, BC, and regulators with gauges is $45 for the day)

29 acres of freshwater diving with depths between 20 to 85 feet. Submerged attractions include training platforms at 10, 20, and 50 feet; a navigation course with surface and underwater markers; some of the original quarry equipment has been identified; vehicles, boats and other artifacts have also been submerged for diving pleasure.
Brownstone Park offers a confined water area for training with a training platform at four and eight feet and a maximum depth of 20 feet.
At Brownstone they brag that 75 years of unchecked and protected marine life growth provides a unique opportunity to Connecticut River wild life in a natural setting. �You can see schools of trophy size large and small mouth bass, carp so wide that they cast shadows as they pass by, bluegills, perch by the hundreds and of course an occasional American eel. Ask anyone about how big the catfish are.�
Kayaking
For those who love to explore from the surface, Brownstone offers 29 acres to explore in a kayak or canoe. - You can bring your own or pay an extra fee to rent a kayak by the � hour or day

Examples of 2009 Pass Prices
General Swimming Daily Pass*
(Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Hiking, Biking, Access to Inflatable Challenges) $18
Adventure Sports Daily Pass*(Cliff Jumping, Zip Lines, Waterslide, Wakeboarding, Challenge Courses, Scuba Diving) $26
Family Adventure Sports Season Pass*(Cliff Jumping, Zip Lines, Waterslide, Wakeboarding, Challenge Courses, Scuba Diving) $495

**A life vest must be worn at all times and a waver is required to enter the park.

The best way to get more info for your own visit is at their web site www.brownstonepark.com.
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�Maggie�s Corner�
Haiti Needs Your Help
By: Maggie Griffin

Kim Cornell, a 2007 graduate of Eastern; and Chelsea Reilly, who will be graduating Eastern this year, are two Women who left Connecticut on January 3rd, with 8 other students, for Haiti to volunteer at an orphanage. Enjoying their purpose in why they both took this opportunity to volunteer as they are two humanitarians at heart, they both grew concern about the children, however, both did not predict the devastation that was about to happen in Haiti; an earthquake.

Chelsea returned to Connecticut within 3 days prior to the earthquake in Haiti, while Kim was still in Haiti during and after the earthquake hit.

�I was emergency evacuated from Haiti on Friday morning, and left behind 134 orphans with no food and water, and absolutely no aid. The name of the orphanage I volunteer at is Christian Haitian Outreach (www.christianhaitianoutreach.org) located in Mariani-Carrefour, right at the epicenter where the earthquake hit. The devastation is unimaginable, and there is no aid reaching the orphanage. The second level of the school collapsed, and the other buildings have not been assessed yet in order to know if they are safe enough to live in. The orphanage is in dire need of repair, and funds for food and clean water. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated;� said Cornell.

�We are currently meeting with several organizations to get the children out of Haiti as the compound of the orphanage is in trouble. There are thousands of survivors that are in desperate needs of medical aid, food and water�, both Reilly and Cornell emphasized.

Kim Cornell would like to share a link to the documentary she made almost a year ago. Christian Haitian Outreach is a non-profit organization and she can get a tax receipt to you if you would like; http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=55557327

Chelsea Reilly and Kim Cornell are devoting themselves to help the survivors and the children of Haiti. Since the tragedy, both women eat, sleep, talk and walk everything about what happened in Haiti and how desperate Haiti needs YOUR HELP. Please help Chelsea and Kim, two humanitarians, with their mission to help the people of Haiti.

Kim Cornell strongly emphasized "we plan on going back in May and reconstructing this orphanage and helping out in any way possible. When I was at the epicenter of the quake, almost 3 days after it hit, still there was absolutely no aid. It trouble me greatly how the news is portraying these Haitian people as animalistic-looting and trampling each other, when in reality, they are the most kind hearted, sweet, welcoming human beings. We are just taking way too long to provide relief."

Below are photos Chelsea Reilly and Kim Cornell would like to share with you, the people and children of Haiti, before the tragic earthquake took place. Please find it in your heart to view Kim�s documentary and reach out and help, any way you can.

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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!

Talk to the Friends

My mother used to constantly remind me, �You can pick your friends, but you can�t pick your relatives!� All of my friends� mothers said the same thing. We all took this to heart and into adulthood. Unfortunately, no one warned us that this didn�t include our children�s friends. So, we began picking out our kids� friends when they were toddlers. Well, maybe not the fathers out there. Mothers are more enthusiastic about friend picking. These friends we chose were usually the kids of our own friends, or the kids of the other mommies in the neighborhood who we deemed fun to hang out with. Things were simple back then. If you didn�t like how certain children were behaving in front of yours, you didn�t invite them over. I vividly recall one Cub Scout outing where a seven-year-old monster child tried to poke my son�s eye out with a piece of sharpened slate. That was the end of that relationship!

We didn�t realize until much later that friend �picking out� was a transient affair. Teens� friends are another story all together. They�re private territory and off-limits to parents - so say our teens.

So, what does one do when one is not exactly thrilled with the new friend? First, parents should be honest with themselves. What is it about the new friend? Is he sporting a nose ring? Does she talk in two-word sentences? Is he flunking math? Maybe you just don�t like her and you can�t put your finger on it. The first thing parents need to do is to be honest about �why� they don�t like the new friend. Are there legitimate reasons, such as drug abuse or the way this person treats your teen? Keep in mind that forbidding a friendship can make things worse, and chemistry is not something you can easily predict or manipulate.

It�s best to get to know the friends rather than making an instant character assessment. With younger teens, offer to drive them places and listen to their conversations. Invite your teen�s friends over to your house for dinner. Instead of grilling them about their grades, sit down and talk with them about their interests. You can learn a lot about a person if you�re able to engage him in a lengthy conversation.

If you still have concerns, it�s time to broach the subject with your teen. Sylvia LaFair, Ph.D., a psychologist and author of �Don't Bring It to Work: Breaking the Family Patterns that Limit Success� (Jossey-Bass, 2009), says, �The best way for parents to approach their teen if there is concern about a new friendship or new group of friends is directly.� She advises that parents ask questions such as, "How can we work together to minimize my concerns?� She says to keep the dialogue going until your teen begins to open up. �You will get more information when you talk together than if you give finger pointing directives,� she explains.

LaFaire warns that parents need to put their foot down if they feel their teen is in danger because of a new set of friends. �If you feel there is serious danger with your teen and questionable friends, it's time to take a stand. Would you let your two-year-old walk into traffic? Get serious with your teen, and let him know why certain dangerous friends are off-limits.�
Do�s and Don�ts:

Do observe his attitude toward adults.
Don�t look at her appearance alone.
Do look for signs of drug or alcohol abuse.
Don�t hover when friends come over � you want them to come back!
Do stick around if a friend of the opposite sex is over.
Don�t directly attack the friends. This will put your teen on the defensive. Ask him open-ended questions that are non-judgmental instead. You�ll keep the dialogue open.
Do talk to your teen about what makes a �good� friend.

TIPS AND TALES

�I would suggest that parents be really honest about their own friendship issues and pray that their teen learns from their own mistakes!
Gene Sottile � Light House Point, FL

�I�ve always had a great radar system. I�m honest and tell my daughters upfront if my radar senses something�s wrong. I try not to be too negative.�
Judy Burns � Poughkeepsie, NY

Want to share your ideas? Upcoming topic:
Your teen is a slob! How to cope & what to do.

Please send your full name, address, and brief comments to:
myrnahaskell@gmail.com

Or visit
http://home.roadrunner.com/~haskellfamily/myrna/
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"Our Hearts Are In The Right Place"Lori Peck, Dedicated VolunteerWe at the Meriden Humane Society feel that all of our animals deserve a second chance at finding a home and are determined to help them achieve this. Just because an animal didn't work out in one home, doesn't mean it won't be the perfect fit in another. We love all of our animals unconditionally and know that their forever homes are out there. Won't you please stop in to visit our animals before going to a pet store or breeder. I'm sure if it's a companion that you're looking for, that we can find one compatible for you. You can help bring happiness to a homeless animal and be rewarded with unconditional love.

Recently our shelter was broken into during the night and our donation receptacle was stolen from our lobby. Someone smashed our front door and broke the lock to get inside to do this. We are all heart broken over this and can't believe that someone could steal the money that other's donated for our animals and use it for themselves. On the previous day, we had a record number of potential adopters viewing animals at our shelter. So, to go from being very optimistic (for possible homes for the animals) one day and then having this happen the next, just shocks us. We are extremely grateful though, that no animals were harmed during this break in.

What we are asking from the public at this time, is to please vote for our shelter on the Animal Rescue Site's Shelter Challenge at www.theanimalrescuesite.com and help us possibly win $100,000. This would help us with vet bills, food and to make a safer environment for our animals, so that we wouldn't have to worry about break-ins anymore.

If you would like to donate from our wish list and cannot access our website @ www.meridenhs.petfinder.org, we are in need of the following: Purina Cat & Kitten Chow, canned wet cat food (no fish), Pedigree dry dog food, Lysol wipes, paper towels, laundry detergent, bleach, Simple Green, babyfood (meat flavors) and linens of all sorts (towels, bedspreads, blankets, etc.). You can bring any donations to the M.H.S. at 311 Murdock Ave. We are open to the public Wednesday-Sunday from 12-6, but our lobby is always open on Mondays and Tuesdays for information or donation drop offs.

From all of us at the Meriden Humane Society who have their hearts in the right place, to all of you who do as well, thank you and "Happy Valentine's Day" from the animals, staff and volunteers. See you at the shelter!

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Shirley Gianotti Municipal Animal Shelter
If you never visited the Shirley Gianotti Municipal Animal Shelter, located in Wallingford, definitely put this on your �must do� list.

The Shelter was run for many years by Shirley Gianotti, a name most Wallingford residents are familiar with. She was the lady that was called when residents spotted a stray dog or cat, or when we were witness to an animal being mistreated---and Shirley always responded.

Since she retired, Lisa Seyler has taken over the Shelter, which she operates with her assistants, Dean, Rachel and Marci. When you walk into the shelter, you immediately feel the love and compassion that Lisa and her assistants have for the animals in their care. When Lisa is asked what can be done to help, her answer is �please say a prayer that my animals find a home�.

There are currently 18 dogs, numerous cats, turtles, a bunny and a bird in residence at the Shelter, all waiting for their �forever� home. Some of these animals were given to the shelter because their owners could no longer afford to take care of them due to the economic climate. Sadly, many of the animals have been mistreated and, thankfully, rescued by Lisa. It is heartbreaking to see the older dogs that have been discarded, found roaming in the Walmart Shopping plaza, or in the woods. You just know that they were wanted when they were cute puppies. These older dogs, often overlooked, actually make great pets. They seem to be very contented to just have a loving family to spend their latter years with.

The Shelter is always in need of donated food, leashes, collars, towels, blankets etc. But the goal of Lisa and her staff is to find a loving, suitable home for their pets.

The Shelter is located at 5 Pent Road in Wallingford.
You can reach Lisa and Dean at 203 294-2180

If you are interested in meeting the residents of the Shelter, please call Lisa to make an appointment.

Patricia Coppola
Wallingford Resident

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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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_�Sheltering an Animal�s Perspective�
by
Gregory M. Simpson

A framed birthday card from a friend hangs in my study that reads, �If you want to know the character of a man, find out what his cat thinks of him.� Men and their companion cats�I am in good company.

Edgar Allen Poe was my favorite author during adolescence. He often worked with his cat sitting on his shoulder, and he describes, �Pluto � this was the cat�s name � was my favorite pet and playmate. I alone fed him, and he attended me wherever I went about the house. It was even with difficulty that I could prevent him from following me through the streets.�

Ernest Hemingway loved cats and lived with many at his Key West home. To this day, one can still adopt descendants of Hemingway�s felines. Hemingway was a man who could see that, �A cat has absolute emotional honesty: human beings, for one reason or another, may hide their feelings, but a cat does not.�

Victor Hugo, Lord Byron, and detective story writer, Raymond Chandler, were all cat lovers. Chandler called his black Persian his �feline secretary,� to whom he always read the first drafts of his murder mysteries. Sir Walter Scott, Thoreau, Lewis Carroll, T.S. Eliot, James Thurber, Saki, Jules Verne, and George Bernard Shaw were other cat loving authors, and the list goes on, with the likes of Aldous Huxley, Henry James, Rudyard Kipling, and Alexandre Dumas. Charles Dickens asked, �What greater gift than the love of a cat?�

Mark Twain, who kept more than a dozen felines at his Hartford home, may have captured it best when he wrote, �A home without a cat � and a well-fed, well-petted, and properly revered cat � may be a perfect home, perhaps, but how can it prove title?�

Male cat lovers are found in all walks of life. Pope Gregory the Great withdrew into a monastery, giving away all his wealth to the poor, and taking his cat as his only companion. The prophet Mohammed fell asleep with a cat on the sleeve of his robe. When called to prayer, he cut off his sleeve rather than wake the cat. King Henry VIII�s chancellor, Cardinal Wolsey, took his cat to religious services and council meetings. French Cardinal Richelieu lived with many cats, said to number fourteen at the time of his death in 1642.

Presidential cat lovers include Teddy Roosevelt, who had a biography published about his cat, Tom Quartz. Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford both had Siamese cats. Presidents Hayes, Coolidge, Lincoln, Kennedy, and Reagan also had cat companions. Bill Clinton�s cat, Socks, was most the recent feline to inhabit the White House.

Artists are often fond of cats as their subjects. The 19th century artist, Theophile Steinlen, produced countless pictures from observing Parisian street cats. Auguste Renoir painted Girl with a Cat, which hangs in New York City�s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Other artists with cat subjects include Matisse, Manet, Picasso, and Andy Warhol. Leonard da Vinci, who drew a page of cats, declared, �The smallest feline is a masterpiece.�

Composers and musicians love cats, too. Chopin�s inspiration for his �Cat Waltz� came partially from his pet cat that jumped onto his keyboard while he was composing. Other musical cat lovers include Alexander Borodin, Maurice Ravel, and of course, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, whose musical, Cats, is performed world-wide.

Scientists who loved cats include Darwin, whose companion was �Persian Snow.� Albert Einstein theorized that, �Contemporary physics is based on concepts somewhat analogous to the smile of the absent cat.� Sir Isaac Newton, who lived between 1642 and 1727, invented the cat-flap door for his cat and her kittens. Nobel Laureate and humanitarian, Albert Schweitzer, reflected that, �There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.�

Yes, indeed, men and cats make good company. As Fernand Mery wrote, �God made the cat in order that man might have the pleasure of caressing the tiger.� To my fellow men, then, I pose the question, �Have you loved a cat today?�

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.

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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!

February 2010 � Stream Flow Regulations
Life along the Q River� An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association

Recently, there has been much talk about the impending Stream Flow Regulations, currently being debated at the Legislator in Hartford. The gist of the debate is that the State wants to balance the water usage between nature and humans. Their intent is to classify flowing bodies of water, everything from brooks to streams into one of four classifications. These four classifications range from: One � pristine, greatly favored to nature; Two - still favorable to nature, but with some human use; Three � relatively balanced between nature and human use; and Four - strongly favored to human use. Class Four rivers would not take into account the wildlife and nature.

The wildlife in and around the Quinnipiac River needs a certain amount of water to survive and thrive. There are natural high and low periods based on the feed from the water source to the weather. By the same token many local municipalities and water companies take water from the Quinnipiac River to service their customers and many wells are fed from the river too.

How did this come about? In 2005 the CT legislature required statewide standards for water flow in its rivers. This was as result of the Shepaug River court case, in which the Town of Washington challenged the City of Waterbury for taking water too much water from the Shepaug River for human use.

Why is this important? The proposed Streamflow Regulations will decide the fate of water in the Quinnipiac and its streams, including Wharton Brook, Muddy River, Sodom Brook, Harbor Brook, Eight Mile River, and Ten Mile River. This is the first science-based effort to protect water flow in 40 years.

Why does this really mean? If the State classifies parts of the Q River as class Four the river won't be restored because they were historically abused. The Quinnipiac has been recovering from pollution in recent years, bringing back fish and bald eagles, ospreys and other wildlife that eat fish. Local residents now enjoy wildlife watching, fishing for stocked and wild trout, paddling, and hiking on river trails. Wallingford will soon have a fishway to help fish migrate up the Q River.

Like many things in life, it�s all balance. We CAN balance the needs of nature and humans. We encourage ALL users of the Q River to use it judiciously and with care. That means conservation from water companies, municipalities and well users. That means treating our Quinnipiac River with respect. That means being responsible for our water usage.

Our state is water-rich - with intelligent planning, there is enough water for both fish and faucet. Good management can provide water for us all to use and to enjoy with nature.

Upcoming QRWA Events � Sunday, February 21, 2010 � Annual Winter Wildlife Hike, Lead by Wildlife Biologist and QRWA board member Peter Picone. The hike begins at 1:30 PM sharp at the Quinnipiac River State Park. Please meet at end of Banton Street which is behind the gas station at Exit 63 off Route 15 in North Haven, CT.

The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is a 501c3 organization whose mission is to restore the Quinnipiac for health and enjoyment of all citizens and communities along its reach and to educate all students, families, individuals, businesses and governments to be informed stewards of the river.

We provide water activities, events in education, outreach, advocacy, scientific monitoring, conservation, restoration, recreation and public access to the watershed area. To learn more about the QRWA and future events please visit our website at www.qrwa.org.

Thank you for your support and remember your donations are tax deductable.

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BLANCA SANTANA, FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SCOW

Photo of Attorney General Richard Blumenthal with Blanca

Blanca Santana, former director of the Spanish Community of Wallingford, (SCOW) for 14 years, remembers her first office in 1995 as one room in the Wallingford Rail Road Station. She helped her clients adjust to an English speaking work force. She enjoyed her involvement in their lives. It became her personal mission to relieve the pain and suffering that immigrants encounter.

Blanca's mother and father, Higia and Hernando, brought their family to Hartford, CT from Peiria, Columbia when Blanca was four years old. Blanca is the oldest of four children. Her parents struggled to make a living and to adjust to a new language, new climate and new friends. Hernando became a gun smith at Colt Manufacturing in Hartford; Higia also worked there besides raising her family, Strong and honest people, they trained their children well. Blanca always kept a strong faith and to this day helps others to believe in a just God. Now Blanca has returned to helping her mother and father while looking for a new job.

I've known Blanca for over 15 years when my nephew, Alan, met her as a hostess at a dance. She cut a good figure on the dance floor--and still does, has excellent posture and large brown eyes that captivate her audience. What was striking about Blanca was her humility. She carefully listened to others. Born in a Spanish-speaking home, she learned English at a young age and has assisted her Spanish friends and clients to know both languages. She graduated from Bulkeley High in Hartford and Eastern Connecticut State University with a Bachelor degree in Communications.

During a shared lunch, she told me, "I had several part time jobs after college, at one time working for WVIT, Channel 30. I was laid off after four months. I also worked with a friend in photography in the Walmart stores. When I applied at the Spanish Community of Wallingford, I never thought I'd be hired, let alone, stay for 14 years.

Blanca was hired as director of SCOW in 1995. In the year, 2001, the town moved SCOW's office to the older Senior Center building where Blanca and two employees assisted over 500 Latino families. The facility gave the people more room to grow in computer skills, in counseling and in recreation. Blanca established collaboration with other agencies in Wallingford (e.g. Literacy Volunteers, Adult Learning Center, the Dare program, United Way member agencies, the youth officer of the Wallingford Police Department, the Wallingford school system and more.) Spanish families received help in immigration issues, learning English as a second language, computer training, legal services, health, employment, education, tutoring, clerical services, community participation, transportation, and entertainment. The quiet Blanca, I first knew, became an advocate for anyone in need. Other agencies admired her.

In a span of seven years, Blanca received five awards!

In 1999 Blanca was awarded 'WOMAN OF THE YEAR' by the Professional Business Woman Organization.

In the year, 2000, Eastern State University gave her THE ALUMNI DISTINGUISHED AWARD.

She was chosen above sixty other applicants for her contributions and received THE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD for the state on Jan. 16, 2006 at the 20th ANNUAL Libery Bell Celebration at the state capitol.

On April 18, 2006, again at the state capitol, she was honored as OUTSTANDING IMMIGRANT along with 21 other recipients from Connecticut by the CONNECTICUT IMMIGRANT AND REFUGEE COALITION.

On Sept. 15, 2007 the HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL NETWORK awarded Blanca the COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD.

I attended three out of the five ceremonies and admired Blanca Santana for her talents and her gifts. I called her recently to ask her permission to write this article.

She said, "I am very grateful for the partnerships and friendships that I cultivated in all the years I worked for the Spanish Community of Wallingford. It was an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to assist and guide anyone who needed help."
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Southington Genealogical Society In 1630 several hundred English Puritans under the leadership of John Winthrop came to establish the colony of Massachusetts Bay. This was the first group of sufficient size to establish a long-time sustainable and growing colony, which in only thirty years extended over much of the present state of Massachusetts, and into Connecticut and New Hampshire as well. But who were these people and what was their contribution to history?On January 26th, the Southington Genealogical Society welcomes Dr. Richard A Eppler who will speak on "The Founding of New England � The Winthrop Fleet of 1630". The meeting will take place in the meeting room of Southington Police Headquarters. Ample parking is available. Refreshments will be served. There is no admission charge and no obligation to become a member. No reservations are necessary. Dr. Eppler has a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Illinois, and has been involved in chemical and ceramic research and consulting for almost fifty years. He has been interested in genealogy for forty years or so, and has traced his mother's family back to several of the founders of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.The Southington Genealogical Society is a non-profit organization located in central Connecticut that promotes the accurate recording, research and preservation of family history. The society regularly meetsat 7:30 pm on the fourth Tuesday of every month, except December, at Southington Police Headquarters, 69 Lazy Lane, Southington, Connecticut._______________________________________________________________

Barb�s Family

Submitted by Alan Murphy
Foster Adoptive Mission

You may have seen her on her way to work or in a grocery store and noticed her friendly and welcoming smile. She may look a lot like one of your friends or neighbors. She might even look a bit like you. What sets her apart is that this woman, Barbara, has been a foster parent since 2002.

�I always knew I wanted to work with children,� Barbara explains. �And the 30 years I spent teaching special education were tremendously gratifying. Yet I always wanted to do more. Being a foster parent has allowed me to make more of an impact. Together with my family, I have been able to change the lives of children from all different backgrounds and a variety of circumstances. There are challenges, to be sure�as every foster parent will tell you�but the rewards have been beyond what I would ever have expected.�

There are currently 513,000 children in the foster care system in the United States, and there is a dire need for committed, caring adults willing to take these children into their homes over the short or longer term. In her seven years as a foster parent, Barbara and her husband have taken in 25 children for stays ranging
from a few days to nine months. They have adopted two of these children (one a toddler and the other a teenager), who are now a permanent part of a family that also includes Barbara�s two college-age biological sons and, at present, one additional foster child.

After having done this for seven years, Barbara tells us: �Now, I wish we had made the decision to start even earlier. Each one of these children has contributed to our home and family life in a special way.�

Barbara is especially grateful for the FAST program, which sends professionals into foster homes to help address the children�s unique needs. She tells us that the first few days of a placement can be especially trying, as children act out in different ways and can be particularly needy when first separated from a parent. FAST provides the information and support Barbara and her family need to make the transition as smooth as possible. �The reward is when the child begins to trust you,� Barbara says. �The first time he comes to you for comfort or she places her head on you. Those are the moments that make everything worthwhile�just knowing that you have created a safe and loving place for this youngster. For some of these children, the time they spend in our home is their first experience of a healthy, nurturing environment. We show them the sort of home life they deserve. And I don�t mean with regard to home size or material possessions; I mean having a place to live where everyone has your best interests at heart. A place where you know from one moment to the next what to expect and don�t have to live with fear or hunger or neglect.�

Barbara�s eyes light up as she speaks of a three-year-old currently in her care: �She is so bright and says the funniest things. She has been identified as gifted by the teachers at the nursery school she attends, which doesn�t surprise me at all. I�ve met with this little girl�s mother, and she has so much potential. We are all hoping she will be able to turn things around and be reunited with her child. Until then, she knows her child is in a loving home.�

The most difficult part of being a foster parent, according to Barbara, is seeing the children leave, especially when there is no contact afterwards. �It�s not possible to adopt every child,� Barbara says, �and of course we worry about the children after they�ve left our home. We just have to take comfort in the fact that, for as long as we had them, we loved them and gave them a stable, structured family life. Sometimes, we are able to keep track of a child when he or she leaves. One of the children was adopted by her grandparent, and we get together and talk on the phone often. It is such a joy to know this child is in a caring home and is being given a good chance for a healthy and happy life.

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What makes an ideal foster parent? According to Barbara, there is no one formula other than enjoying children, being able to provide a loving home, and being willing to fight for what they need. Barbara considers foster parenting her calling and encourages others to join her in providing a temporary home for one or more of the thousands of local children in need.

Foster parenting is a commitment�and an opportunity to make a big difference in a child�s life. FAM (Foster Adoptive Mission) has presented this vignette of Barbara�s experiences as a foster parent in hopes of encouraging other caring adults to reach out to children in difficult circumstances. If you have any interest in becoming a foster parent, please call FAM today for more information. There is no obligation. Your timing couldn�t be better: May is National Foster Care Month. Please call FAM at 860.949.4061 or 203.706.0101. There is a child out there who needs you.

Please note: To protect the privacy of children in the foster care system and their foster families, FAM (Foster Adoptive Mission) prefers they remain anonymous in most instances. In the case of this article we have omitted the last name of the foster parent and have been given permission to use the foster parent�s first name.
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Brio Academy Honors Dejlitko with Student Entrepreneur Award

Christine Dejlitko is working to secure her future by learning the art of cosmetology and at the same time how to become an accomplished business person while attending Brio Academy�s East Main Street school.

Dejlitko, a lifetime Meriden resident, is making her school days a Grade A, award-winning experience at the east-side salon, where she is a student and the current recipient of the Business Student of the Month award. With the honor, Dejlitko automatically is entered into the Nuts & Bolts National Business Student of the Year competition. Nuts &

Bolts is a professional business development program designed to give students a competitive edge and is exclusively offered at Brio Academy schools.

The award criteria includes attendance, delivering outstanding customer service, business building, influence on other students and focus and discipline towards becoming a successful business person in a chosen profession.

�I�m very excited and shocked,� Dejlitko said of winning the Nuts & Bolts award. �It feels good to have accomplished it.�

Dejlitko has demonstrated that she has the know-how to turn her education into a lucrative career, while setting the bar for her peers. �I always wanted to do hair,� said Dejlitko, who works as a full-time job coach with the mentally challenged. �It�s always been one of my dreams.� Dejlitko finds time to volunteer at St. Ann�s Church in Hamden and Master�s Manna food pantry in Wallingford. An active member of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), her hobbies include securing animals for the Wallingford Shelter.

Dejlitko said she aspires to join the Brio Academy faculty after completing her school days.

Brio Academy of Cosmetology has eight school locations throughout Connecticut � newly opened Enfield, Hamden, Fairfield, East Hartford, Niantic, Willimantic, Torrington and Meriden. Corporate headquarters are located in Meriden. The Academy is a career training center specializing in hairstyling, barbering, cosmetology and esthetics.

All services are offered to the public at the school salons and provided by supervised students at a cost-saving rate. Brio�s Meriden hairstyling salon is located at 1231 East Main St. within Lowe�s Plaza. Brio Academy of Cosmetology has both day and evening classes available year-round. For more information contact admissions at (203) 237-6683 or go to www. brioacademy.edu.
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~ A Wintry Tale ~
- George Arndt -

The snow had started falling early that February morn. It came in on the nor�east wind,
like blistering shards of frozen wings. Winds that spared no earthly thing, nor cared what lay in its wake. Ice-encrusted fluttering flakes�danced like glistening crystal doves. Blustery gales a-howling -- from the valleys of sprawling glaciers, bouncing from the foreboding mountain crests�gave no hope to those who dared to smirk at its might.

The old lady and her bedraggled mate shivered alone in that creaky abode. Their only warmth was each other now -- and as the dwindling embers from the hearth were slowly dying, came the deepening sense of hopelessness, and the reality of mortality.

Cry -- she dared not, indeed, for such pittance of wretched human feelings would bring not a miracle, but the show of frailty of this forsaken pair.

The strength of the roaring winter fiend rose again to claim its privileged crown of frost and ice. As if its reason was merciless hate, came again with bony fingers stretching �cross the lonely plane�piling snow against itself, along each edge of its domain. Neither bird nor beast could be seen �round the blanket of white that covered acres and acres of this forgotten Montana farm.

There seemed no end, not the least reprise, from winter�s frigid grip�as all hope, it seemed, was surely fading fast for these two solitary folk. With what strength this creaky dame possessed, lifted her tiny frame and mate from off the bench�bashed the remaining wooden seat into splintered rays of glimmering hope.
Tossed into the fire pit ever so sparingly -- piece by piece as she held tightly to her chattering man. Watched and smiled as the fire glowed red, and then too soon -- it was dead.. Praying now was all they had for any semblance of warmth�just enough to keep them from freezing there on the weathered floor.

�Luke...get over here.�

Did she dare to think she heard a voice...someone's voice outside their battered door?

�I think there�s someone inside.�

She strained to listen�how could this be�who could be out there�out there in that frost, that bitter cold, she implored her soul?

Again came the voice.

�Come help me get this snow from off the door�I hear sobbing in there.�

She was crying now�she hugged her near frozen love�cried out in a weakened fragile voice.

�Yes�we�re in here�help us, help us, please�it�s so cold.�

With ample speed they dug�and soon�the door was cleared, and then the hikers stepped inside. The couple were bundled into one�nearly frozen, nearly dead.

�Wrap yourselves in these blankets�and here, take a sip of this warming broth.�

The pair grinned and nodded as they wrapped the cozy warm blanket �round their trembling selves. The broth was like the whispers of Heaven as each took sips from the thermoses of the daring hikers, who, by fate, stumbled upon this depleted raggedy old farmhouse.

And so a tale of bitter icy fears ended with the couple being saved from the curs�ed frigid winter�s rage.
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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!

Home Country
Slim Randles

One of the problems Marvin Pincus discovered about running the Fly Tying Love Center here in the valley is that there appeared to be more fly tying than love counseling going on.

This particular morning he was whipping up a nice fluffy Adams dry on a number 12 and wishing everyone�s love problems were as easy to solve as tying one of these. He realized he�s a pioneer in the field of combining fly tying and romance solutions, but that doesn�t mean he couldn�t quietly hope for his neighbors to have more love problems. His advice had worked well with Dewey (a lead-wire-wrapped wooly bugger leading to the suggestion he showers before he asks a girl out on a date), and with Randy Jones (a pheasant-tail nymph and a Parmachene Belle sending him on his way to girlfriend happiness with Katie Burchell). But there were others out there. There had to be others.

Other advice counselors, the ones who just sat there taking notes, managed to find any number of unhappy potential love victims, but the Fly Tying Love Center was noticeably short of them at the moment.

�Marjorie,� Marvin said over coffee, �maybe if I offered an incentive, you know? Some little extra that would bring them in for advice?�

�Like what, Honey?�

�Maybe taking some flies that I tied for them and making earrings out of them?�

�The men around here don�t really take to wearing earrings.�

�I mean, for the women � you know. Women are the emotional ones who need love advice the most. Everyone knows that.�

�How many clients have you had so far?�

�Well, two.�

�Both of them were �?�

�Men, true. But I�m not sure what I could offer the guys except the flies themselves to use to go fishing.�

�That sounds good.�

�And the earrings?�

�We could get you some of those fasteners for the earrings, and it would probably be a good idea to cut the points and barbs off them.�

�Good idea.�

�And I could wear a pair just to start the neighbor ladies talking about it.�

�Yeah! Good idea! I�ll tie you up a few right now.�

�In that case,� Marjorie told her husband, �I�ve got the ladies club luncheon today and I planned to wear the red outfit��

�Royal Coachman streamers on number fours! Honey, you�re the best.�
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Brought to you by the soon-to-be-announced syndicated radio program, �Home Country.� We thought you should be warned.

For a mug shot, cookie, or love advice, we�re here for you:

Slim Randles
7308 Painted Pony Trail NW
Albuquerque, NM 87120
(505) 306-6009
ol_slim@yahoo.com
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One Down � Eleven to Go
by Ernie Larsen

By the time this is in print the month of January will have run its course. Now we are in February, the shortest month, so when it ends it too will seem like it was just yesterday we were hauling out the Christmas tree to the curb for recycling.

Usually the first month of the year reminds me of the doldrums, a sense of stagnation or that part of the ocean, near the equator, which is marked by calm. More or less of a month of nothing; unless you take the reins, making more of than it seems to offer. For instance, the first Federal holiday of the year is celebrated during January�s second week. Yep, Martin Luther King day and if you have the good fortune to work for a firm, company, government agency and have the day off you�ve got a three day weekend to make the most of; what to do???

One of our three day weekend likes is a theater trip to New York City. We usually plan to see a couple of shows, one drama or comedy and a musical. On our last visit, we had tickets for a production which was in previews. They were purchased through the Manhattan Theater Club and for really good mezzanine seats the tickets were only $38.00 each; and if you know Broadway pricing this is a deal. And for our second production, the next day we decided to hit the TKTS line on Broadway and 47th where theaters send their unsold ducats and most can be had for 50% off retail with a 2/3 dollar service charge. While I was on an errand, my spouse took a place in line and when I finished my obligations I joined her. Lo and behold � she asked me if I knew a certain person from Meriden whom she thought was waiting on line and there she was a colleague of hers who teaches at another school in town. Imagine that, a city of 8 million and you see someone from the old home town. Anyway, we finally made it to the ticket window and having a couple of choices in mind were offered tickets to MEMPHIS a high energy musical which takes place in the early 1950�s. The regular price a regular price orchestra ticket for this show was $130.00 and we got them for half off.

We also stayed in the City for two nights, in January hotel prices are extremely reasonable. I can highly recommend the Hotel at Times Square, interestingly this place is quite a distance from Times Square, but I digress � it is on 46th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues and quite convenient to the theater district.

46th Street is also known as Restaurant Row with a great selection of eateries offering almost any cuisine you could imagine. We regularly seem to end up at places featuring Italian menus and are teased about it by one of our gourmand offspring � so this trip we branched and tried a place which claims to be the only Chilean restaurant in the City. My wife had a chicken dish and for my entr�e I enjoyed a baked seafood soup. The chicken was plentiful, my offering would have been a nice appetizer � a bit of a stingy portion and a bit pricey for what it was, but we were in a tourist area and this is not unusual. All in all we did enjoy the change. And the next night we were back at our old stomping grounds, a nice, neighborhood Italian place over on 2nd Avenue in the 50�s. Somewhat off the beaten track, it was recco�d by a workmate who used to date the owners son. What a find � when we got out of the theater it was raining and we luckily hailed a taxi and made it cross town in a very short period of time. When we walked into the place a gentleman was playing the piano and there were only 6 or so others having an early dinner. When we handed the menus I remarked the prices were comparable to places where we regularly dine around this area. And the food, I had some of the best stuffed clams I�d ever experienced and both of our entrees were delicious and plentiful. We also enjoyed some classic Italian desserts, a great house wine and very good coffee and cappuccino. If you�re in the area check it out, it�s called Mimi�s right on the corner of 52nd and 2nd. Maybe we�ll see you there we definitely will be heading back.

If going out of town is not your cup of tea you don�t have to hibernate in the winter months. Lots of folks like to just hang around the house with the excuse �Oh, there�s nothing to do in the winter� � well there sure are lots of options. How about heading up to Hartford to the Wadsworth Atheneum � a museum with a varied collection of American and European art plus special exhibitions through out the year. Not up your alley � how about taking in a show at the Bushnell or the Hartford Stage? Or a concert � the Oakdale presents an eclectic mix of performers throughout the year or you could drive up to the casinos for some top notch entertainment. You may even be able to take in a local production at your hometowns community theater. Then there are the ubiquitous home shows at the Convention Center in Hartford or hunting and fishing expo�s in the same venues. Are you a sports fan? Even though they are very popular � there are always tickets available for college hoops at the Civic, oops! Excel Center or you could check some of the local colleges for the times and dates of their games � besides UConn there are some other great athletes playing their hearts out and you can be entertained for a few paltry dollars. Just using these suggestions to say there are lots of activities to keep people entertained. We used to head to Yale to watch some great hockey for around 4/5 dollars a game.

So, get yourself out from under that rock and get out and do something � check out the newspaper, there are always various entertainment offerings and much more going on every week. And if you want to see something really different, entertainment at its finest � check out when the next City Council meeting is scheduled � government in the raw � be sure you get there for the public comments, you cannot put a price on this type of activity.

Enjoy and see you next month.

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!

Town News and Events February 2010

2010-02-05T09:47:00.001-05:00

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

We are in the dead of a New England winter and have already weathered several big snowstorms. During and after each storm, I receive numerous calls from angry and frustrated residents complaining of snowplows covering driveways and sidewalks with snow or not arriving at all for their street. I can appreciate these concerns and we do our best to remedy these situations if possible.

However, I offer some points to consider. Meriden has 190 miles of roadways to plow with 22 trucks. The first priority is major arteries followed by secondary streets, followed by sub divisions, and then cul-de-sacs. Due to these priorities, some residents must wait longer than others to get plowed out.

Additionally, the Meriden City Code stipulates that residents are responsible for clearing their walks after a snowstorm within 12 hours after sunrise unless it is a late storm and then the period carries over to the next day. Also, the code prohibits parking on public streets during a snow or ice storm from November 1 to March 15. And finally, the code prohibits pushing snow onto city streets. By following these regulations, residents can assist the city in the snow plowing efforts.

For more detailed information and tips about dealing with winter storms, check the city website at www.cityofmeriden.org and click special announcements.

Thank you for your assistance and patience during difficult storm related conditions.

Mike Rohde
Mayor

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 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver�s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Caf�. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!

AARP�s trained volunteer Tax-Aide counselors are once again ready to help local seniors with income tax advice and actual preparation of your 2009 Federal and State income tax returns. Meriden AARP volunteers will be at the Max Muravnick Senior Center each Wednesday, from Wednesday, February 3 until Wednesday, April 7. This free service is offered by appointment which may be made by calling the Senior Center at 203-237-0066.

The Meriden Antique Veterans, World Post #1, completed another outstanding year of service to the community in 2009. The group officiated with honor guards at a record 121 funeral services during the calendar year, exceeding the previous high of 114 funerals several years ago. Since 9/11 the group has taken part in 835 funeral services! Their participation in uniform with a rifle squad, service flags, a bugler and the folding and presentation of the American flag to the family is a great tribute to the departed veteran and a source of comfort and support to those left behind. The Meriden Antique Veterans were formed in 1996 and meet weekly each Thursday morning at 9:30 AM in the mezzanine level of the Meriden Senior Center. New members are always welcome and the meetings are open to any honorably discharged veteran, male or female, of any branch of the United States Armed Forces. Congratulations and thank you to the Meriden Antique Veterans for all you accomplished in 2009!

A Valentine Dinner Dance will be held at the Senior Center on Thursday, February 11 with music provided by Vinnie Carr. The dinner menu of roast beef, baked potato with chives and sour cream, peas with mushrooms, dessert and coffee will be served from 5:00 to 6:00 with dancing from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Tickets are available now for Meriden residents at a cost $6 per person and may be purchased at the Senior Center.

The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center will be on Wednesday, April 21 and Friday, April 23 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 for the class are now being accepted by calling the Senior Center at 203-237-0066. Additional AARP Driver Safety Classes this year at the Senior Center will be held on July 21 & 23 and November 3 & 5, 2010.

The Elderly and Disabled Homeowners� Tax Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut has now started. Any elderly or disabled Meriden homeowner can apply for a credit to their local property taxes at the Meriden Tax Assessor�s Office at City Hall between February 1 and May 17, 2010. To be eligible applicants or their spouse must have been 65 or older by December 31, 2009 or be on Social Security Disability. You must own and live in the house for which you claim a tax credit and the income limits are $32,300 for a single person and $39,500 for a married couple. Applications for tax relief are also available for qualified veterans. For more information contact the Tax Assessor�s Office at 630-4065.

Save the date for a Reverse Mortgage Seminar on Wednesday, March 10 at 10:30 AM presented by Wells Fargo Home Mortagage. Learn how people aged 62 and over can convert some of their home�s equity into cash to help pay bills, cover healthcare costs, make home repairs, or address other financial needs. A free, no cost or obligation program in the first floor meeting room at the Senior Center.

The 21st annual Walk for Warmth will be held on Saturday, March 6 at 10:00 AM in downtown Meriden to raise money for energy assistance for people in need in our community. Last year�s walk raised $20,000 and I raised $330 through your generous pledges. People willing to make a pledge again this year are asked to sign-up in the front office and I thank you for your support!

Meriden AARP Chapter #2954 will meet on the lower level of the Senior Center on February 10, 2010 at 12:30, general meeting at 1:30, and entertainment at 2:00. The program at 2:00 will be a slide show by Peter Burch with many wonderful pictures of his trip to Egypt and Jordan. There will also be a raffle of three Valentine�s Day baskets and more!

For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.

John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
January 29, 2010

Mayor�s Corner Wallingford

Dear Friends:
The Spring 2010 Wallingford Parks and Recreation Guide to Leisure and Fun has just arrived � a sure sign that warmer weather is on its way. There are numerous programs for every age group to enjoy.

Early childhood programs for our preschool children include Language Lingo and Flights of Fancy for 2 year olds with a parent. Children 6-11 can enjoy the February 15 � 19th school break with Winter Warriors. Hop on a bus and head out on trips for lots of fun. Spring Stingers provides children 6-11 an opportunity to go on trips during the spring school break which is scheduled for April 19 � 23rd. Voyager Trips this summer include a Radio City Backstage Tour, a tour of Fenway Park and a tour of the new Yankee Stadium.

New in Sports and Leagues for children ages 5-6 and 7-8 years old this year is Skyhawk Tennis an exciting new play format for learning tennis at an early age.

There are also instructions for a variety of sports including volleyball, baseball, basketball, football, fencing and martial arts.

There are many Health and Fitness classes to choose from tailored for most everyone�s needs. You can take ballroom dancing; learn swing, Latin, Country /Western and new this year the �Thrill of Dance� a tribute to the King of Pop Michael Jackson.

The Guide for 2010 is indeed a wonderful opportunity for �Leisure and Fun�. Sign up now!

Sincerely,

William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Mayor

jms
1/29/10

WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER
FEBRUARY 2010 EDITION

WSC GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
Looking for a gift for your special senior? Consider purchasing a Wallingford Senior Center Gift Certificate for a family member or friend. Our gift certificates, which are available at the front desk, may be used toward senior center classes, trips, special events, and Lake View Caf� meals.

VALENTINE�S CELEBRATION
Thursday, February 11, 10:30 AM
Don�t miss our annual salute to love at our Valentine�s Celebration on February 11. The festivities include fabulous musical entertainment provided by We Got Rhythm (back by popular demand), as well as Valentine�s Day treats and activities. Please sign up if you plan to attend.

VALENTINE LUNCHEON
Thursday, February 11, 12 Noon
Following our Valentine�s Celebration, Lake View Caf� will serve a special luncheon. The menu includes: Tossed Garden Salad with Creamy Dressing, Three Cheese Lasagna, Garlic Bread, Lemon Meringue Pie, and Coffee. Tickets are $5.00 and are on sale through February 9.

SOCIAL SINGLES VALENTINES PARTY
Thursday, February 4, 6:00 � 9:00 PM
Attention singles aged 55+! Join us for a Valentine�s Day Party with DJ Todd from Jock in the Box featuring music of the 50�s and 60�s. Refreshments will include hors d�oeuvres, punch and dessert. Advance tickets are $10.00 ($12.00 at the door). Invite your single friends! For more information call Ruth at 203-269-5492. Visit the Social Singles website at www.socialsingles.wlfdseniorctr.com.

SOCIAL SINGLES VIRTUAL BOWLING
February 10 & 24, 1:30 PM
Social Singles now has its own Wii Bowling Team! We will meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month in the Great Room from 1:30 to 3:30 PM. Please sign up if you plan to participate. If you are interested in more information about Social Singles, please visit our website at www.socialsingles.wlfdseniorctr.com.

LIVING WITH CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE
Wednesday, February 17, 10:30 AM
Learn how Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is diagnosed and treated. This program, sponsored by MidState Medical Center, will be presented by Donna Jones, RN. Please sign up if you plan to attend.

LOVE YOUR HEART! � WOMEN & HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Monday, February 22, 10:30 AM
This month�s edition of �To Your Health� will focus on women and high blood pressure. Please sign up to attend this important program which is presented by the Visiting Nurse Association of Wallingford.

2010 GOLF LEAGUE
Our Coed Golf League, coordinated by Howard Griesing, and held at Miner Hills Golf Course, will begin its eleventh season in May. This year, instead of two ten-week sessions, there will be one sixteen-week session, running from May 18 through August 31. The cost for play and the final week cookout is $235.00 for members and $240.00 for non-members. Sign-up will begin in May. Additional details will follow.

SENIOR STARS FINAL UPDATE
The final Senior Stars Karaoke competition was held on YouTube in December, and our own John Ferreira, who sang �Barefootin��, was the statewide third place winner! Congratulations, John! And, congratulations to Cheryl Mrazik, who was a finalist in the karaoke competition.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Just a reminder that your Senior Center has many different activities and interest groups to keep you occupied during the long, cold winter! For the creative folks we offer quilting, ceramics, clay sculpture, wood carving, knitting and crocheting. Like games? Come play Wii sports, bridge, pinochle, setback, mah jongg, bunco, bingo, or Scrabble. Need activity? Try ping pong, billiards, tap dancing, dancing with DJ Donald, or our many fitness classes. We also have two singing groups, a current events discussion group, computer classes and a Bible discussion group. You could hang out with friends, have breakfast or lunch, relax and watch TV or listen to live music. Or, find out ways to volunteer. Come meet new friends and have fun at the Wallingford Senior Center!

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.

FOOD PANTRIES IN WALLINGFORD
Need a little help with your food bill? Listed below are the names, addresses, and times you can visit.

�Angel Food Ministries: Get $75.00 worth of food for $30.00. See member interest table at the center, or call 203-284-8975 for additional information.

�Master�s Manna: 46 North Plains Road (in back). ID required (Photo ID, Birth Certificate or medical card). Distribution times: Tuesday & Thursday, 9-12; Fridays, 4-8 p.m.

�Good News Food Pantry: 46 John Street (Good News Church). Distribution time: Wednesday, 11:00 a. m. � 2:00 p.m.

�Elderly Nutrition Meals: The Town of Wallingford is able to provide meals to seniors who meet the criteria. Please call 203-294-2060 for additional information.

�Local churches: Call your church to find out if there is a food pantry available.

CONSUMER INFORMATION
Banks and Credit Union Overdraft Practices
Please be aware of banking practices such as: covering ATM withdrawals, debit card purchases and preauthorized electronic payment of bills. When there is not enough money in your account to cover your withdrawals, many banks will automatically cover your shortages BUT they will charge you exorbitant service charges, anywhere from $30.00 to $39.00 for each transaction. Be sure to check with your bank to see what your bank�s procedure is.

ASK AN ATTORNEY
Tuesday, February 11, 1:00 p.m. � 2:30 p.m.
Attorney Daniel O. Tully of Kilbourne & Tully, PC will be available to give free legal advice to those who have questions or need some direction with legal issues. Please call (203) 265 7753 to schedule an appointment.

LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Friday, February 19, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Please join us at our monthly meeting. New members are welcome. Topics of interest are presented by professionals. This group also offers an opportunity to learn about the newest forms of technology as well as provides a chance to exchange ideas about how to manage this lifestyle challenge. Please call (203) 265 7753 to sign up.

VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, February 23, 1:00 � 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 203-265-7753.

MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM
The Medicare Savings Program assists individuals who meet the income guidelines to pay their Medicare Part B premium. Income limits for a single person range from $1778.91 to $2091.67. For a couple, the income limits range from $2393.55 to $2816.67. There is no asset limit. If you fall within these guidelines, the State may be able to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Income verification is all that is necessary. This includes gross Social Security benefit (gross is before the $96.50 is taken out of the check), pension, dividends, interest, rental income, gross wages, etc. To schedule an appointment for completing the application, please call (203) 265 7753.

CT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
2009-2010 HEATING SEASON
Appointments for assistance with fuel continue to be scheduled at the Wallingford Senior Center. Anyone 60 years of age and over is encouraged to apply. Income limits are $30,485.00 for a single person and $39,865.00 for a couple. Asset limits also apply. Liquid asset limit for homeowners: $10,000; non-homeowners $7,000. Please call 203-265-7753 to schedule an important.

BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, February 16, 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 265 7753 now to schedule an appointment.

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: $1,669.00 month �Couple Income: $2,246.00 month
For more information or to schedule an appointment to apply for this program, please call Eileen Flynn, Social Worker at 265 7753.

HELP WITH SNOW REMOVAL
Need assistance with snow removal? The YOUTH JOB BANK of Wallingford�s Youth & Social Services Department can help. They will find a student from Wallingford to shovel snow for a fee you negotiate directly with the student. You can call the JOB BANK to request assistance before it snows, this way a student will be assigned to assist you prior to a snowfall. Please call 203-294-2175 to request a student or to get additional information.

VISIT our website at www.wlfdseniorctr.com!
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!