Upcoming News and Events for September and October

Pasta Dinner for South Meriden Trinity United Methodist Church
145 Main St.
South Meriden
September 16th - Pasta Dinner
Pasta, Sauces, Meatballs, Rolls, Butter, Dessert and Beverage!
$8/adults $5/children
($9 at the door)
Call 203-235-6002 for information
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The Senior Buddy Readers Program
Seeks Volunteers
The Senior Buddy Readers intergenerational mentoring & literacy program is currently seeking volunteers for the 200 6 -2007 school year. Active retirees are needed to help first- and second-grade students improve their reading skills. The program runs from October through the end of May and takes place in six of Meriden’s elementary schools: Ben Franklin, Casimir Pulaski, Hanover, Israel Putnam, Nathan Hale and Thomas Hooker schools.
Anyone interested in sharing one hour a week mentoring a child is invited to call the office of Meriden Children First Initiative at 630-3566. Make a difference in the life of a child…become a Senior Buddy Reader volunteer!
(The Senior Buddy Readers program is sponsored by nonprofit Meriden Children First Initiative and is supported financially through foundation grants and local business donations.)

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Thanks! 2006 Meriden Project Graduation
This event supports all the graduates from Maloney, Platt and Wilcox by providing a safe-, alcohol- and drug-free place to celebrate their graduation with their peers all under one roof. It is hard for some to imagine the many hours of planning and organizing that happens long before the actual night. Without each and every person that pitched in when needed, this night would not have been the success it was!
Many thanks to all the chaperones at the Project Graduation celebration June 20th-21st. A special thanks to all committee chairpersons (Karen Zeiser, Freddi Wilson, Janet Kopek, Donna Kelly, Ginnie & Steve Patsos, Tim Jenkin, Joy Cheney, Cheryl Smith, Debbie & Steve Morse, Betsy & Rick Kenefick, Rich Kiewlen and Lucas Moncevicius) and their committee members without whom this event would not have been possible!
Also, thanks to the many other volunteers who helped in so many ways, among them: “check in table” staff, Joe Struble, Roger Poggio, Kenn, Toni and Father LaPlante at Holy Angels, Pam White, the school officers and detectives that helped keep us safe, and finally the Mayor, the School Board and the City Council.
Many thanks to all the contributors to the Diplomas for Dollars campaign, which the graduates enjoyed reading at the party. A very special thanks to all the donors and their continued support year after year.

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"ART ON THE WALL"
Easel Works Creative Art Studio & Gallery will hosts its 11th "Art On The Wall" and "Art Walk" on Saturday September 30th. Oil Paintings by adult and young artists from the studio will be displayed along Center Streets Cemetery Wall. Watercolor, Drawings, Sculptures and a variety of other pieces will be displayed in "Art Walk" along the paths in Center Street Cemetery. Hands-On art project tables will offer adults and children of all ages the opportunity to be creative, compliments of the studio. Easel Works Art Committee invites everyone to join in a great day of fun, creativity and the opportunity to see some great art work.

Exhibit Opens At Easel Works
Ghosts - Goblins - Ghouls.......And A Pumpkin Or Two
The Exhibit .....Ghosts - Goblins - Ghouls.....And A Pumpkin Or Two will open on Saturday, September 30th at Easel Works Creative Art Studio & Gallery. The imagination gone wild.... ......Ghosts....Goblins......Ghouls.....Pumpkins....come together in this unusal and unique display of creative art celebrating Halloween done by adult and young artists. The public is invited to stop by during "Art On The Wall." The Exhibit will be on display throughout the month of October.

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Wallingford Residents Celebrate Diversity
A free, family-friendly educational, spiritual and charitable event will take place at Wharton Brook State Park in Wallingford on Saturday, September 9, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The purpose of the event is to celebrate diversity and to educate the public regarding Earth-honoring spiritual paths through workshops, literature, ceremony, music, and dialogue. Admission to the event is a non-perishable food item to benefit the CT Food Bank.
Children’s activities at this event feature puppet shows by THE ODD SOCKS, drum making and music workshops, an Amazon Parrot exhibition, Native American storytelling, and a supervised arts and crafts area.
Adult activities include a variety of lectures on alternative healing, and a diverse group of workshops including Native American Ceremonial singing, Shamanism, Hindu chanting, Qi Gong, Yoga, Latin American herbs and legends, African drumming, and many others representing a variety of cultures and spiritual traditions.
Donations collected at this event will benefit ONE SPIRIT and SAVE THE CHILDREN. One Spirit is a Native American charity benefiting Lakota Indians on the Pine Ridge Reservation. For additional information, contact Lori-Ann Locke at 203-387-2490.

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Mayor Mark Benigni and his wife, Amy, celebrated one of life’s most lasting memories and at the same time kicked off a new program at MidState Medical Center recently.
The Benignis, who welcomed their first child, Bria, in April, purchased the first “New Generation” brick in MidState's Tribute Walkway celebrating new births at the hospital.
The walkway is intended to give families who have babies at MidState an opportunity to permanently honor and remember the birth. Last year, more than 1,000 infants were born at MidState Medical Center. “We were so pleased to learn about the “New Generation” brick program and how it would give us an opportunity to remember this wonderful event in perpetuity,” the mayor said while laying his daughter’s brick in the walkway recently.
Each brick will include the name and birth date of the infant along with a brief message.
Gail Millerick, MidState's Director of Development, said that the walkway was designed to be highly visible and serve as a symbol of the healthcare MidState has offered local families in the past and looking toward the future. “We look forward to the day, some years down the road, when some of the first names inscribed here, will return with their own families and we’ll see a new generation of bricks.”
Mayor Benigni echoed those sentiments. “MidState offers local families state of the art healthcare. We’re very proud to be invited to inaugurate the ‘New Generation’ brick program.”
Further information on MidState Medical Center’s "New Generation” brick program is available by contacting the Development Department, MidState Medical Center, 435 Lewis Avenue, Meriden , CT. 06451-9982. The bricks are $250 each and all proceeds, which are tax deductible, will support the hospital’s Family Birthing Center ongoing programs.
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Meriden Humane Society has opened a thrift store, also at 311 Murdock Avenue, Meriden. If you have any items you would like to donate, it would be most appreciative to receive them to bring over to the shelter. Thanks in advance for whatever help you can provide. It is a challenge raising over $200,000 yearly to support the stray and abandoned animals we serve at this no-kill shelter, so any help you can give would be wonderful. Thanks again. **
The 11th Annual Wallingford Family YMCA 5 & 10K Classic Road Race will be held on Sept. 23, 2006. Youth races of ½ mile and 1 mile begin at 8:45 AM. The 5K & 10K begin at 10 AM. Registration is being accepted now at the YMCA. Family activities and a FREE family barbque will be held at the conclusion of the races. Proceeds will benefit YMCA youth programs.
For more information on this event, you can call Pam VanderWeele at (203) 269 4497 x 20.

CHESHIRE COMMUNITY CHORUS SEEKS NEW MEMBERS
The Cheshire Community Chorus is seeking new members. All voices are needed: soprano, alto, tenor, baritone and bass. Try-outs are not required and Cheshire residency is not required. A warm welcome is extended to any person who enjoys singing.
Rehearsals for our Holiday concert in December began Tuesday, Sept. 5. at the Highlands Health Care Center, 745 Highland Avenue (Rt.10) in Cheshire. Rehearsals will be held there every Tuesday evening thereafter from 7 - 9 p.m.
The Chorus began in 1980 as part of Cheshire’s Bicentennial celebration and has continued uninterrupted since that time presenting a Holiday Concert in December and a spring concert in April or May each year. Our choral selections cover a wide variety of music, from classic and contemporary to old favorites, with emphasis on presenting an enjoyable and entertaining program for the audience. Lisa Zolkiewicz –Ives will be returning for her seventh season as our conductor. We look forward to an exciting new season and hope you will join us.

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Fall Volleyball
Wallingford Park and Recreation is holding registrations for Fall Volleyball for girls ages 9 to 15 at the Recreation Center at 6 Fairfield Blvd. There is a registration fee of $60.00 with Clinics and Practice then starting Saturday, September 16th at 1 p.m. League T-Shirt provided Clinics, Practice and games will be on Saturday and Thursdays. For more info call Ken Kish @284-9658

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Chorale Connecticut Looking for New Singers!!!
“Chorale CT begins fall rehearsals on Monday evening, September 11th, at the First United Methodist Church, 159 East Main Street, Meriden. Rehearsals are held every Monday evening from 7:30 - 9:30 PM.
“Open” rehearsals will be held on September 11th and 18th and all voice parts are welcome to audition. Please come and meet the Chorale members and experience the chorus before deciding to join. Continuing its 10th anniversary celebration, the Chorale will present its winter concert “Holiday Memories” on December 2nd. For further information, please call (860) 621-1653.

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Fifth Annual 9/11 Memorial Service
Once again, New Life Church will be hosting a 9/11 Memorial Service on Monday, September 11, 2006, at 7:00 p.m. The service will include music, a time to remember those lost in the attacks, time to honor those who serve to protect us each day and words of encouragement from guest speakers. The service will last one hour and refreshments will be served following. The event will be held at New Life Church, 262 Bee St., Meriden, CT 06450. For more information, please call 203-630-3012.
Please pass this along to anyone you know who may be interested!
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Haircuts and more to benefit Charity
Jennifer's House of Hair is hosting their 2nd annual Cut-A-Thon to benefit to Meriden/Wallingford Chrysalis for Battered Woman and the Meriden Humane Society. The event will take place on Saturday, September 9, 2006, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the salon located at 437 Broad Street, Meriden.
Washand Cuts will be $15, 15 minute chair massages $10, mini manicures $10, mini pedicures $15. All services will be available on a first-come, first-served basis with a sign-up sheet available. While you wait, everyone is welcome to enjoy the festivities. There will be a DJ, Food, Refreshments, Animals, Face painting, raffles, and much more. It will be a great family event. All money collected will be donated 100% to the chosen organizations. If you are interested in donating refreshments, have any items you wish to raffle off, or if you just have any questions please call the salon at 203-235-3166. Get a haircut, give to charity and help a good cause!

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The Wallingford Women's over 30 Soccer team is looking for a goalie.
We are the "Wallingford Shooting Stars" adult women's soccer team with the town of Wallingford. We've been playing as a Wallingford team since 1985. We are in need of a goalie (goalie may be age 28+) for our season that starts September 10th.
We play on Sunday afternoons in the spring and fall. Might need field players, too. Come join the fun! If interested, please call Marsha at 203-265-3135.
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CT VNA Hopsice: Volunteer
Do you want to make a difference in your life and the life of someone else?
Have you ever considered becoming a hospice volunteer? Hospice is about living life to its fullest and we need your help to make this possible for our patients and their families. There are many volunteer opportunities available.... companionship, respite for weary caregivers, visiting patients with your pet, sharing your musical or artistic talents, or helping with clerical projects.
Training to become a volunteer with Connecticut VNA's hospice will be beginning soon. For an enriching and meaningful experience, please call today.
For more information, please call Jolan Szollosi, Volunteer Coordinator at 203-679-5342


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Town of Cheshire
National Public Lands Day Celebration
Join the Town of Cheshire in the celebration of National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 30, 2006, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the DeDominicis property. National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands American’s enjoy. Hosted by the Cheshire Environment Commission, volunteers will improve trails at the DeDominicis property in southeast Cheshire. Cheshire is the only town in New Haven county participating in this national event. The 185-acre DeDominicis property, a key portion of the Town’s eastside greenbelt, is the largest coniferous forest within the town. Attendees should plan and dress appropriately for work in the woods. The event will be held in clear or light rain conditions. The event will be cancelled in heavy rain conditions. Meet at the trailhead on Old Lane Road. On-street parking only.
For additional information please contact Suzanne Simone, Environmental Planner, at (203) 271-6670 or ssimone@cheshirect.org
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Become a volunteer with Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers.
Give just an hour or two a week and help somebody smile. Our volunteers offer a friendly visit, drive to medical appointments, help with grocery shopping, or provide respite assistance. We train and support you after you are matched. Our training sessions is September 18 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Mid State Hospital in Meriden, 435 Lewis Ave. Conference room #5 in the Cornerstone building
CALL TODAY TO REGISTER!! 230-8994
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Karen's Aid to Strays is a federally approved 501c(3) non-profit animal rescue organization located in North Haven. Our organization would like to thank the Meriden and Wallingford community for their generous support at our Pet Food Drive that was held at Walmart on August 19th and 20th. All of the donations collected go directly to the care of the animals.
K.A.T.S. is currently in need of volunteers to: assist at the shelter, provide manpower at table fundraising events, and to help with planning and implementing new fundraising events. Additionally, K.A.T.S. welcomes students to contact the shelter directly to discuss volunteer opportunities to meet school community service requirements. Please contact Karen Jackson at (203) 239-3707 for information about volunteering, donations, or cat adoption.

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AFFORDABLE
Low Income Assisted Living
(Housing Option Series - Part 4)
Thought Assisted Living was out of your financial reach? Think again and then mark your calendar to attend an information session describing affordable Assisted Living on Wednesday, September 27 at 10:30 a.m. at the Wallingford Senior Center. As financial or health needs change, living at home may no longer be a viable option. If you and/or your spouse need some help with activities of daily living, including medical support, and a sense of security to make life easier and more comfortable, you may consider Assisted Living. Bright brand new apartments financed by Connecticut Housing Finance Authority are now open and available to low income people 65 years of age or older at the Luther Ridge community in Middletown. Presenter will also describe other affordable living options for elders including their independent living and congregate care residence. Please register for this program by calling 265-7753.
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How Do Meriden Schools Work?
Do you have children in the Meriden school system? Do you wonder how the school budget and policies are created? How can you as a parent/caregiver best interact with your child's school? Who are the key people who help make our schools work?
If you're curious to learn more about how our schools work, attend an informative, interactive workshop with special guest presenters including:
Mayor Mark Benigni
Steve Zerio, City Council Majority Leader Cathy Abercrombie, State Representative Tom Gaffey, State Senator Rob Kosienski, Board of Education Dr. Jeffry Villar, Associate Superintendent Mary Cortright, Superintendent Each elected official and administrator will make brief presentations regarding their role in the education process. Discussion to follow, you are encouraged to ask questions! Childcare available on request.
This meeting is on Wednesday, September 27, 6:30 p.m. at the Meriden Board of Education, 22 Liberty Street.
To reserve a spot, call Children First at 630-3566 or email to dwradcliffe@juno.com This event is also sponsored by the City-Wide PTO and the Family Resource Centers.
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Trail of Terror Boo Crew Review
Need a psychiatrist? Do you have impulse control issues, stressed out at work or do you just need a place to vent? Well, no need to see a professional, become a Scare-actor at the Trail of Terror, The Northeast's premier haunted attraction. Where else can you yell, torment, scare people, vent about as much as you need or just have fun. Our volunteers are some of the zaniest people around, they like to have fun and are excited to help out the Red Cross. If you are interested, please contact the Red Cross or email me at trailofterror@comcast.net. Be part of a great group of people who love Halloween and last year donated $40,000 to the Red Cross.
The Trail is open weekends in October, check our website for dates and times. www.trailofterror.com Opening day is Saturday, September 30th.
Scare you soon,
Wayne "Spookologist" Barneschi

Watershed Council to mark ten years, tireless volunteers--and tons of trash in anniversary Cleanup Middletown, CT. “We don’t know where the energy comes from, but folks keep coming back year after year,” say Connecticut River Watershed Council River Steward Megan Hearne, “It’s just amazing the amount of work that gets done on Source to Sea Cleanup Day each fall.” This September 30th marks the 10th anniversary of the watershed-wide Cleanup, which has taken place annually along the banks and tributaries of the Connecticut River’s 410-mile reach since 1997. In that time over 350 tons of trash, appliances, couches, transmissions and tires have been removed to proper disposal sites from the river sides of four New England states.
There’s still time—and a need, for groups and individuals to sign-up for the anniversary Source-to-Sea Cleanup, sponsored by New England Family Farms Milk. “Though the Connecticut River is cleaner than it’s been in decades, some people still see it as a convenient dumping ground,” says Hearne. Last year over 1,500 individuals representing some 50 organizations and communities turned out to haul trash from a sweep of river from Old Lyme, Connecticut to Beechers Falls, Vermont.
To date, eighteen volunteer groups have signed on for the anniversary Cleanup. New England Family Farms Milk, CDM, Coca-Cola North America, the Metropolitan District Commission in Connecticut, and dozens of private and non-profit organizations are contributing material and financial support to aid this expanding event. Volunteer groups, as well as organizations who wish to donate their support to the 10th Annual Connecticut River Source to Sea Cleanup are asked to call Andrea Donlon at CRWC’s Headquarters by September 8th: (413) 772-2020, ext. 205, or go to www.ctriver.org; or email:
cleanup@ctriver.org.
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5th Annual ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! Celebration
Free Event for Girls ages 9 to 14 and their moms/caregivers
On Saturday, October 14, 2006, the Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council, with generous support of Colonial Flooring Plus and Uniform Source, will host the 5th annual ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! Community event for girls ages 9 to 14 and their mothers/caregivers. The event will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Washington Middle School, 1225 North Broad Street, Meriden..
Over 500 girls and their caregivers have benefited from this exciting event that offers workshops on self-esteem, decision-making and assertiveness skills. In addition, a health and wellness fair is presented with a wide range of community organizations providing information to the girls and their caregivers.
Soy Unica! Soy Latina! will also have entertainment with “Island Rhythms,” providing music from different cultures and a special appearance from Tasha Nicole and Meriden based group 2 Hot 2 Handle.
The Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council provides community-based education and information on the effects of substance abuse, alcohol, tobacco, gambling, and other addictive behavior.
For more information or to register, please call Christelle Aubé at MAWSAC at 203-294-3591.
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The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club has openings on their Van for after school programs. The van picks up at Parker Farms, Yalesville, Dag and Moran. Membership fee and van fee are charged for this service.
Club opens on Tuesday, September 5, 2006 for after school programs and van will start picking up students on Tuesday.
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MERIDEN YMCA GRADUATES
AMERICAN RED CROSS BABYSITTERS!

The following students successfully completed the American Red Cross Babysitters’ Training Program on August 14th and August 16th under the direction of Patricia Cargill. Congratulations! Polina Boiley, Catherine Carr, Anna Corbell, Destinee Dinino, Alessandra Glacco, Destiny Highsmith, Jackie Longworth, Andrea Marotti, Melissa Schmidt and Lauren Slater.
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Attention All Swimmers and Parents of Swimmers!
Are you 13 to 18 years of age?
Are you looking for more in a local swimming program?
Are a dedicated swimmer or a parent of one?
Then come to the Meriden YMCA Seals Swim Team! The Meriden Seals are now offering a FREE!!!!!
New program to their swim tear. Under the direction of their Head Coach Jamie Tennyson.
This new program will only be offered to those serious swimmers! The Seals now offer a training program called
Senior Gold Swim Team. Are you asking yourself what that means? Please read on!
#1: The swimmer will receive the opportunity to take spinning classes FREE OF CHARGE!
*to strengthen their legs and build endurance*
#2: The swimmer will receive the chance to participate in Medicine Ball Training FREE OF CHARGE!
*to strengthen their abdominal muscles*
#3: The swimmers will also be able to attend a abdominal and lower body classes FREE OF CHARGE!
*to strengthen their abdominals and legs for a more effective kick*
Are you still interested?
The Head Coach and or the Aquatics Director keeps track of the child’s performance not only in the pool but all around. When the child shows that they deserve the opportunity for this great program the Head Coach along with parents and swimmer will have a meeting. This meeting will be the time to go over what the swimmer’s training routine will be when they commit into this program.
Things that the Head Coach and or Aquatics Director will watch for:
to participate in at least 86% of practices
to show proper sportsmanship
have the appropriate attitude towards all participant’s
to show their dedication
to show their love for the exciting sport of swimming!
If you are interested in this program, please contact the Meriden YMCA and speak to our Aquatics Director Lisa Hoover.
Or make an appointment to meet both Lisa Hoover and Jamie Tennyson. We would be glad to meet you and discuss the details of this program. (203) 235-6386 ext.12
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American Red Cross Swim Lessons
At The Meriden YMCA!
Registration has begun for all Fall Aquatic Programs. All Aquatic Programs are conducted by American Red Cross Water Safety Instructors.
Private lessons are available for children and adults starting at 3 years of age. Classes are 30-45 minutes in length. Private Lessons are unique; participants can pick the days and times of your classes and the instructor of your choice. A private lap lane is reserved for you every class! Water Fitness Classes (From Intensive-Arthritic) are offered weekdays and evenings. Water Fitness Classes are FREE to all YMCA Members. A minimal fee is charged for non-members. For information please contact Lisa Hoover, 235-6386 ext. 12.
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Book signings planned
At Friends Bookstore
The Friends of Meriden Public Library will hold two September book signings at the Friends Bookstore at 1 Colony St. in downtown Meriden.
Local author Eddie "Spaghetti" Siebert will be at the store Friday evening, September 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. to sign his many popular children's books. Among his more recent titles are Heroes of Tomorrow, and Practice Makes Perfect but older favorites such as Pirates and Mermaids will also be available. Each of the animated young author's books is built on a simple but powerful message for his small readers.
Siebert will also be talking about the new chapter books he is currently producing.
The Friends will have a popcorn machine on the premises to provide popcorn for the children attending the event.
Former Meriden City Manager Roger Kemp will be signing his new book at the store on Saturday morning, September 16, starting at 9 a.m. The book, entitled Homeland Security: Handbook For Citizens and Public Officials is a 269 page soft cover, edited by Kemp, which comprises a collection of essays by many experts in the field documenting best practices in homeland security from the municipal to federal level.
As usual, all programs at the bookstore are free to the public.



Book Store gears up for Super Saturday Sidewalk Sale
The Friends of Meriden Public Library will hold a Super Saturday Sidewalk Sale on two weekends in September. Several tables will be set up on the sidewalk in front of the store at 1 Colony Street in downtown Meriden on both September 16 and September 23 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Former City Manager Roger Kemp, as guest author, will be signing his book on homeland security and chatting with old friends at the event.
As at all Friends book sales, many categories of books will be available on sale including fiction and mysteries, science fiction and horror, cookbooks and health, how-to and home repair, business, biography, religion, and lots of children's books.
Prices of books displayed on the outdoor tables will be $1 for two hard covers and $1 for three paperbacks. These prices apply to sidewalk items only and must be paid for outside.
Books in the store, will be sold at their usual prices ($2 for hard covers and $1 for paperbacks.)
Small size coffee will be offered at half price for sale patrons inside the store. (Books purchased outside must be left at the desk while picking up coffee.)
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If you liked the movie "DODGEBALL," then come and be a part of your very own Dodgeball League!!!! The Wallingford Family YMCA will be running a Competitive Dodgeball League, for High School Teens and Adults, beginning October 10th. Games will be played every Tuesday afternoon in the YMCA Gymnasium. Each team should consist of 10 - 12 players (Teams can be Co-ed). The cost of the Dodgeball League is $120.00 per team. Uniforms will be provided for each team at no extra cost!! Players under the age of 18 must have a signed parental permission slip in order to play. If you would like to participate in the Competitive Dodgeball League, please fill out the roster form and return it with entrance fee and signed permission slips to the YMCA by September 19th. If you have any questions about the league, please contact Joe Crispino at (203) 284-7448 for more details. Forms and permission slips are available at the Wallingford Family YMCA.
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Where can family members go when faced with problems and issues of their loved ones with one of the five major mental illnesses: Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder, Panic Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
The National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) is sponsoring the Family to Family Education Program. There is NO Cost to participate in this 12-week education course.
The course will cover information about Schizophrenia, the mood disorders, panic disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. The classes are structured to help family members understand and support their ill relative.
Coping skills to handle crisis and relapse, basic medication information, listening and communication techniques and how to use community resources are some of the features of the curriculum.
Two family member volunteers of NAMI Waterbury have taken the training to teach this class and have taught this course in the Meriden area in the past. The curriculum was written by an experienced family member and mental health professional from Vermont. The course centers on the caregiver and is designed for parents, siblings, spouses, teenage and adult children and close friends of persons with severe and chronic brain disorders (mental illness).
Registration is required and classes are limited and completely confidential. The course will start Monday, Sept. 11th at 6:30 to 9:00 PM in Meriden. For more information or to register, call Barbara McKenney at
203-710-3173 or barbaramckenney@cox.net.
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The Wallingford Family YMCA Teen Dances are back and better than ever! Come to view and listen to all of the Big Hit songs and videos that will be turned out by our new D.J. Jock in the Box Entertainment, and enjoy free food and beverages while socializing with your friends. To ensure that you are able to attend all of our dances, you will need to purchase a Teen Dance card. Teen Dance cards are on sale now for $30.00. One card gets you in to all of our dances! Individual Teen Dance tickets will not be sold. For more information please contact Joe Crispino at 284-7448.
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The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords will resume their weekly rehearsals in preparation for their Winter Concert to be held Saturday, December 2nd. Gina Fredericks, of Middlefield, is the musical director and Joyce Ghent, of Portland is the founder and chairperson. We are looking to add to our Bass and Tenor sections. If you want to lift your spirits, share your love of music, be part of a “family”, and contribute to the community, then we extend a warm welcome to join us. Please call 860-342-3120 for more information. No auditions are necessary and new members will be accepted until September 19th.
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34th Annual gem, jewelry, fossil and mineral show – Saturday, October 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, October 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gems, jewelry, fossils and crystals for sale, hands on educational exhibits, free children’s games with prizes, hourly raffles, a grand prize and more. Adults $4.00; Seniors $3.00; children free (with an adult). Presented by The Bristol Gem and Mineral Club. Held at the Beals Community Center, 240 Stafford Ave. (Off route 6), Bristol, Ct. For further information call (860) 561-9980 or (860) 673-9315. Email: Bristolgem@hotmail.com Website: www.Bristolgem.org
Directions from I-84: * Exit 33 (Route 72W towards Bristol) * Go 1.5 miles to Exit 1 (North Washington Street/Route 177) * Turn right at end of ramp (Route 177) * Proceed 2 miles to Route 6 (past Tunxis Community College) * Turn left onto Route 6 * Travel 1.7 miles to Stafford Avenue (by Stephen’s Auto) * Turn left onto Stafford and follow .9 miles to the traffic light before turning left into the parking lot for the Beals Community Center (240 Stafford Ave.)
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Meteorologist to host weather show Sept. 13
Art Horn, a Connecticut meteorologist with 25 years television broadcasting experience, will present his new weather show, “Weather and Health,” at 7p.m. Sept 13 at the Southington Public Library.
Horn will examine how weather and climate affect people in many ways. Changing the angle of the sun through the year can have an important impact on how people feel.
The weather where people live can be dangerous ranging from severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes and even sandstorms. Anyone with a heart condition, lung disease, migraines or any number of chronic conditions, will be affected by changes in the weather.
For information or to register, call the library reference department at (860) 628-0947 ext. 5.
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Martin Jean to Kick Off Yale Organ Series
Martin Jean will perform on Sunday, September 10 as the first organist of the 2006 – 2007 Great Organ Music at Yale series. The free concert will take place at 8 p.m. in Woolsey Hall on the Yale campus (corner College and Grove). The program will include works of Franck, Howells, Dupre, Saint-Saens, and Reger.
Martin Jean is Director of the Yale Institute of Sacred Music and Professor of Organ there and at the Yale School of Music. Widely recognized as a brilliant, warmly communicative artist, he has concretized extensively throughout the Western Hemisphere, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Jean’s commercial recordings, including the complete Six Symphonies of Louis Vierne and “The Seven Last Words of Christ” by Charles Tournemire, are available on the ‘Raven, Gothic, and Loft Recordings labels. A recording of the Symphonies of Marcel Dupre will soon be released on the Delos label.
Great Organ Music at Yale is presented by Yale Institute of Sacred Music with support from Yale School of Music. The next concert of the season will be Thomas Murray playing music of Bach, Elgar Liszt, and Durufle on October 1.
For more information call (203) 432-5062 or visit www.yale.edu/ism.
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MERIDEN YMCA OFFERS
AMERICAN RED CROSS
BABYSITTING CERTIFICATION COURSE
This certification program is designed for todays 11 - 15 year olds. This training course gives participants the knowledge, skills and confidence to care for infants through school-aged children. This program addresses safety issues, preventing injuries and illnesses, basic child care, first aid, decision making skills and age appropriate behavior and play. Participants learn by doing and are required to demonstrate several first aid skills including rescue breathing and dealing with a choking victim. This course will take place on a Mon., Sept. 25th and Wed., Sept. 27th from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Students are required to attend both evenings to receive their certification. The course fee is $55.00 per student. Pre-registration is required. Please contact the Meriden YMCA at 235-6386 to register today!
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MERIDEN YMCA IS HIRING LIFEGUARDS!
Looking for a fun and responsible Job? Looking for flexible hours? Looking to work with people your own age? Looking to get a free YMCA membership? Looking to make money?
If you answered “yes” to the above questions and you are a certified lifeguard; please contact Lisa Hoover for an immediate interview: 235-6386 ext. 12
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Lyman Hall Plans 25-year reunion
The Lyman Hall High School class of 1981 will sponsor a 25-year reunion from 7 p.m. to midnight Nov. 24th at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn on Route 5. The cost is $50 per person and will include open bar, buffet dinner and a disc jockey. For information, call Joe or Debi (Fusco) Mrozowski at (203) 269-3106.
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HOLY ANGELS CHURCH SEEKS CRAFTERS FOR HOLIDAY BAZAAR
Holy Angels Church, 585 Main Street in South Meriden is seeking Vendors and Craftspeople for its annual holiday bazaar “Christmas on the Hill” to be held on Saturday, November 18. The Bazaar will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Holy Angels Parish Center.
The bazaar will feature crafts, food, baked goods and raffle prizes.
There is a per table charge.
For further information (203) 235-3822.
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Easter Seals Head Start Accepting Applications for September 2006

Easter Seals Head Start, a NAEYC accredited preschool program for 3-4 year olds living in Meriden, Wallingford, Southington and Berlin, is actively accepting applications for this school year. We are a free program for eligible families and offer full day options - accepting Care 4 Kids. We provide an active engaging curriculum, family support service, along with the following screenings: developmental, hearing vision and nutrition. Free breakfast and lunch is also provided five days a week. Please call Easter Seals Head Start at (203) 238-9166 or apply in person at 398 Liberty Street, Meriden, Ct.
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COLLEGE TIPS FOR STUDENTS WITH LD/AD/HD
The Connecticut Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities (CACLD) has useful information for high school students with LD/AD/HD who are planning on attending college. Articles on receiving accommodations in college and helpful planning hints are available free of charge by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: CACLD 25 Van Zant St., Suite 15-5, East Norwalk, CT 06855 ATTN: COLLEGE INFO
CACLD is a regional non-profit organization that supports individuals, families and professionals by providing information, education and consultation while promoting public awareness and understanding. CACLD's goal is to ensure access to the resources needed to help children and adults with learning disabilities and attention deficits achieve their full potential.

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Come Join the Fun at Girls Inc.
Fall Registration is Here.
Girls Incorporated of Meriden, located at 130 Lincoln Street, will begin registration for its fall classes Monday, September 11th at 8:00 A.M. Fall classes will begin on September 25th and will be offered for eleven weeks.
Girls Inc. is offering a number of programs so be sure to check our brochure out. Some of the classes being offered are Cooking, Scrapbooking, Quilting, Economic Literacy, Media Literacy, Wacky and Funky Crafts, and much more. If everything sounds like way too much fun and you don't know what to take, come join our House Sampler and try a little bit of each program. This program allows you to sample all of the above for two days over a ten week period.
Girls Inc. also has Gymnastics, Dance, and Cheerleading. Girls Inc. has a number of exciting National Programs that will provide hands on interactive fun learning in the areas of Science, Math and Relevant Technology, Sports and Health Fitness. The National Programs really allow the girls to get involved in subject matters that are geared just for girls. Girls Inc. is also launching Saturday classes! If you are a working parent and can't get here during the week come and sign up for our Saturday dance or gymnastic classes!
A 2006-2007 Girls Incorporated membership ($30 nonrefundable) is required to be current at time of registration. Membership and class fees are due at time of registration. Girls Inc. accepts cash, checks, MasterCard and Visa.

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Girls Inc is now offering Saturday Classes
Are you a working parent and can't make it to Girls Inc during the week? Is your daughter interested in gymnastics or dance? Well then this is for you.
Girls Inc. is now offering beginner dance and gymnastic classes on Saturdays! We are also launching a mommy and me class for girls ages 2 - 3 years olds on Saturdays as well for both gymnastics and dance. Drop by Girls Inc. on September 11th at 8:00 a.m. to reserve a spot for the fall, or to request a brochure listing class days, times, descriptions, and fees call 235-7146. Girls Incorporated of Meriden, located at 130 Lincoln Street will begin Fall classes on September 25th and will be offered for eleven weeks.
A 2006 - 2007 Girls Incorporated membership ($30 nonrefundable) is required to be current at time of registration. Membership and class fees are due at time of registration. Girls Inc. accepts cash, checks, MasterCard and Visa.

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HUNTER’S AMBULANCE ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC IN MEMORY OF WILLIAM LAWTON & CAROL GILLOOLY
TO RAISE FUNDS FOR EMT SCHOLARSHIPS
The Hunter’s Ambulance 17th Annual Golf Classic In Memory of William Lawton and Carol Gillooly will be held Monday, September 11, 2006, at the Wallingford Country Club beginning at 12:30 p.m. (shotgun start). Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. with lunch at 11:15 a.m.
The Hunter's Golf Classic is held in memory of William Lawton and Carol Gillooly, who lost their lives in the line of duty by a drunk driver on September 2, 1989. This is the only fundraiser for the Lawton & Gillooly Scholarship Fund.
Many lives have been touched including over 275 individuals who have received Scholarship funds to obtain their Emergency Medical Training. These individuals come from cities and towns around the State and use their education and training to volunteer or explore a new vocation in Emergency Medical Services in their community.

The golf tournament offers several sponsorship levels available that will both greatly assist the fund and supply exposure for area businesses and healthcare related facilities. A monetary, service, or product donation is a wonderful way to get involved.
For the golfers out there, this tournament offers fine country club course conditioning (which includes golf carts, green fees, lunch, awards dinner, recognition in the program book, gift, raffles, prizes, team awards and individual awards for long drive - closest to line- closest to pin all for your $195 entrance fee). Trophies and gift certificates will be given to the top three winners from two divisions. Raffle tickets will give chances on winning various high-valued items. Last year's raffle prizes totaled over $15,000.
Other contests include a Hole-in-One event, where the winner will receive $5,000 cash and an additional $5,000 will be donated to the scholarship fund in the winner’s name. Additional awards offered for other Holes-in-One.
Dan Hunter, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Hunter’s Ambulance, had the vision for this event and claims the success of the tournament has made it possible for others to attain advanced education and life saving skills, helping people in their communities like Bill and Carol.
“When faced with an incredibly tragic event, we responded in a manner that appropriately memorialized Bill and Carol and those ideals for helping people, that they both held so dear,” Hunter said. “We’re giving people an opportunity to aid the sick and injured as Bill and Carol did so passionately.” Words inscribed on the plaque dedicated to Carol and Bill, "I shall pass through this world but once. Any good that I can do or kindness that I can show any human being, let me do it now and not defer it…for I shall not pass this way again."
For further information and to have a brochure forwarded to you, please contact Barbara Raffile, at:
Phone: 203-514-5130
RSVP Line: 203-514-5180
Fax: 203-514-5143
Email: hadmin@huntersamb.com
Mail: Hunter's Ambulance Golf Classic
Attn: Barbara Raffile
450-478 West Main Street
Meriden, CT 06451
Register on line: www.huntersamb.com
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CAROL GILLOOLY AND WILLIAM LAWTON HONORED DURING THE
TWELFTH ANNUAL NATIONAL EMS MEMORIAL SERVICE,
MAY 29, 2004 AT ROANOKE, VIRGINIA
Dan Hunter, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, David Lowell, Director of Operations and Bill McGovern, Training and Quality Assurance Coordinator represented Hunter's Ambulance Service at this year's National EMS Memorial Service as Carol Gillooly and Bill Lawton were among fourteen new inductees from ten states.
The reverent and moving National EMS Memorial Service is held each spring in Roanoke to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow men and women.
The National EMS Memorial Service is not a single event but rather a series of events spanning three days. These events began on Friday morning with private, scheduled tours for the "To the Rescue" Museum and the "Tree of Life" Memorial, and ended mid-morning Sunday with the conclusion of the Family Breakfast.
Dan, David and Bill were honored to join two of Carol's sons along with her brother, sister, brother-in-law and nieces, as well as Bill's parents and two of his aunts. On Saturday afternoon, Dan, David and Bill joined the families for a tour of the “To The Rescue” Museum and an unveiling of the Tree of Life. Each fallen individual has his or her name inscribed on a bronze oak leaf and added to the tree. The oak leaf has historically been accepted as a symbol of strength, valor, and solid character - all are characteristics shared by both Carol and Bill.
The National EMS Memorial is housed at the "To The Rescue" Museum. The Tree of Life memorializes those who have lost their lives in the unselfish performance of their duties of saving others.
During Saturday night, May 29, 2004, the formal memorial service was held at the First Baptist Church. The Boston EMS Bagpipes led the color guard, which carried state flags of those being honored. David and Bill joined other service representatives in honor guard uniforms and escorted the families to the altar during the service. At the altar, the families were greeted by an honor guard and were saluted. Each family received a medal signifying the eternal memory of their loved one, a U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol recognizing service to their Country and a white rose representing their undying love.
The service was marked with poignant remarks and songs offered by fellow EMS professionals. A video montage captured the lives of the individuals honored and needless to say, there was not a dry eye in the house for the two-hour service. Both color and honor guards assembled in the street fronting the church as taps was played during a fly over by a local air medical helicopter.
Much of the service has been captured on video and was available for viewing for those who attended the Hunter's Ambulance 15th Annual Golf Classic on September 13, 2004.
Although sixteen years has passed since the horrible events that took Carol and Bill from us, for their families this was the correct time and place to honor Carol and Bill with their induction in the National EMS Memorial.
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GREATER MERIDEN CHAMBER PRESENTS
2007 LEADERSHIP GREATER MERIDEN
The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that they will again offer their annual leadership program, "Leadership Greater Meriden."
Over the past five years more than 60 individuals have participated in and graduated from the program. Fostering leaders to grow your company and to grow our community: that is simply what Leadership Greater Meriden program is about. Leaders are a valuable asset to your organization and to our community. As all leadership skills are transferable, your employees will be able to better represent your company in our community. As leaders, we cannot sit back and wait for additional leaders to appear. Leadership must be encouraged and cultivated.
Each year, based on feedback from our participants, the program is refined to reflect the changes in our community. The sessions are cognizant of the value of the time of the participants in the class. It is designed to allow for the participants to return to the workplace in the afternoons. The seven session program meets one day a month from September - March at various locations throughout Meriden.
Please give this opportunity your careful consideration for your key staff members who need an efficient orientation to Meriden and who would benefit by the exposure, leadership training and participation provided in this program.
You may direct any and all of your questions to Sean W. Moore, Rosanne Ford, or Chip Geriak at the Chamber. All have participated in the program so they have firsthand experience.
This program of leadership development has been proven to be a valuable experience for the 60 graduates of the past several years. We are expecting that the class will fill up fast this year so send your application in today. In March of 2007, we look forward to 15 new graduates who will be better prepared leaders in your company and in our community. The deadline for registration is September 20, 2006. Do not delay, register today!
For more details on this exciting opportunity, please call the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce at 203-235-7901, email us at info@meridenchamber.com or visit www.meridenchamber.com for a list of past participants!


This year’s Durham Fair is running Friday - Sunday, September 22, 23 and 24. It’s the 87th year for Connecticut’s largest agricultural fair, and it’s going to be a GREAT three days.
Starting with the main stage entertainment, on Friday night at 7:30 PM, legendary country and western singer George Jones will thrill the crowds. On Saturday, same time, enjoy the talented female trio, SheDaisy. And on Sunday at 3 PM, country star Phil Vassar will grace the main stage.
The finalists of the third annual Durham Fair talent show will appear on Center Stage at 1 PM on Saturday. And, as usual, there will be a wide assortment of other local talent too—on the Center Stage, smack in the middle of the fairgrounds, and on the Green Stage, up next to our famous Crafts Tent on the Green. This year, for the first time, we’ll be featuring lawn mower racing on Friday! And don’t forget those racing pigs.
The barns will be full of fun (and livestock!). You won’t want to miss the needlework, photography, baking, flowers, vegetables or special youth exhibits either. Fair food will be plentiful, especially from our local service organizations.
Tickets are $25 for a three-day ticket; otherwise, $12 for adults; $10 for seniors; children under 11 are free. As usual, the tickets include all entertainment. If you buy your one-day ticket through any Liberty ATM machine, it’s only $10.
Log on to the Fair’s website, www.durhamfair.com, for complete information. See you at the Fair!
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Fundraiser for Baby Hunter: Volunteers Needed
Hunter is an 11-month-old baby that has SMARD1, which is an extremely rare genetic condition (only 60 worldwide cases) that is both progressively debilitating and fatal.
The family, natives of South Meriden, have been in and out of hospitals in three states in the last six months.
We will be holding a Pasta fundraiser for Hunter on Saturday, October 14 at the South Meriden Fire Station. Volunteers are needed from about 3 PM to 7 PM, as well as set-up and break-down before and after the event.
If you are interested in helping, please contact Keith Gordon.
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POPCORN TIME!
Hunter’s Ambulance EMS Youth Explorer Post 181 is Selling Popcorn for the 4th year and this year has to Count !!
Order sheets will be at all the departments next week or if you can’t wait till November for it to arrive. We’ll have some here on Sept. 18th ready to enjoy.
GREAT FOR: snacks at home & work, Gifts, Shop early for the holidays,
Thank you for your support
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The Solid Rock Cafe, a Christian coffeehouse, presents "Heartsong Singers For Christ," a female country-western Gospel group, on Friday Sept. 22nd - 7:00 p.m.
Free admission and refreshments, with a free-will offering. The Solid Rock Cafe is located inside the North Haven Evangelical Baptist Church, 161 Mill Rd.
(1 mile south of Rte. 22, east from I-91, exit 11). For more info., call 239-1495 or 468-8232.
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Celebrate Wallingford September 30 and October 1: 2-day festival featuring “the Taste of Wallingford,” live entertainment, craft show, children’s activities, civic groups, Police, Fire, and Public Works vehicles and demonstrations., on the Parade Ground and South Main Street, Wallingford, Sat. 11 AM – 6 PM, Sun. 12 - 6 PM. Free admission. Rain or Shine. Wallingford Center, Inc. 203-284-1807.
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Wallingford Gardeners Market: Sept. 9, 16. featuring fresh produce, plants, handmade crafts, baked goods, cooking demonstrations, advice from Master Gardeners. Saturday mornings, 9 AM to 12 Noon on the Railroad Station Green, Route 5 and Hall Ave. in Wallingford. Free admission. Rain or shine. Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center, Inc. 203-284-1807.

HISTORIC GIANT FREE CAR WASH
When: Saturday, September 9th 8:30 – 12:30
Contact: Pastor Will Marotti 203-631-8110 cell
203-630-3012 office
GIANT FREE CAR WASH ON SATURDAY
The largest free car wash in the history of Meriden will be held this Saturday from 8:30 am to 12:30 p.m. NEW LIFE CHURCH will be holding the car wash at three sites simultaneously. One at 92 Main Street in South Meriden, another at 262 Bee Street and a third at Bennett’s Commercial Tire on Broad St. The public is invited to bring cars, pickup trucks and vans. Donations will be discouraged. Rain date TBA.

Thanks go to Verizon Wireless of Wallingford
Going back to school will be a little easier for children who use the services of Chrysalis of Wallingford and Meriden, thanks to Verizon Wireless employees at the Wallingford Call Center. The company held an Employee Backpack Drive and donated school supplies and gift cards to help children who are living in a local domestic violence shelter. The collection is part of the Verizon Wireless' HopeLine program to support families at domestic violence shelters through difficult times as they make the transition from violent to healthy homes.
Scholarships for Mature Women
The Greater Meriden American Association of University Women (College Club) has recently awarded scholarships for mature women who will be returning to school this Fall. Two of the recipients, who are pictured above (Shari Stanley and Lynn Landry), met with the members of the club at the most recent annual June picnic.
The club raises most of the funds for the scholarships through the yearly Book Author Luncheon; from the purchase of tickets and from the purchase of ads published in the program booklet. The club also receives donations for the scholarships from non-profit organizations such as the Cuno Foundation.
This year, the club is fortunate to be able to award scholarships again in September 2006. Any woman, who has been out of school for 5 years or more and is returning to any accredited program of higher education and lives in the Greater Meriden area may apply. Applications may be downloaded from www.gm-aauw.org or requested in writing from Greater Meriden AAUW Scholarship Committee, c/o Sue Burchsted, 16 Spice Apple Lane, Meriden, CT 06450. Completed applications for the Fall distribution should be mailed to the above address and postmarked no later than Sep. 15, 2006, or e-mailed to greatermeridenaauw@yahoo.com no later than Sep. 15, 2006.


RIVER CLEANERS WANTED! Connecticut River Watershed Council’s 10th annual Source to Sea Cleanup set for Saturday, September 30
Middletown, CT. The Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRWC) will hold its 10th Annual Source to the Sea Cleanup on Saturday, September 30, 2005. “We are looking for groups and individuals who can spend a morning clearing trash and helping recycle some of the appliances, lumber, tires and debris dumped annually on bank-sides and tributaries of the 410-mile Connecticut River,” says Megan Hearne, a CRWC River Steward. From the watershed boundary at the Quebec-New Hampshire line, to Long Island Sound at Old Lyme, Connecticut, anyone willing to get a bit messy in the name of a good cause should give CRWC at call: (413) 772-2020, ext.205, “We’ll get you pointed in the right direction.”
This year marks a milestone in the annual CRWC effort, “This is Source to Sea’s tenth anniversary and we’re looking to get more people involved with their Connecticut River. We’d love for them to become advocates for this wonderful resource,” says Hearne, who oversees the Connecticut reach of the four-state watershed. “Cleanups are great community builders. They get people of all ages and walks of life working together.” Last year some 1,500 volunteers hauled in more than 30 tons of trash from the Connecticut River and its tributaries—everything from barbeque grills to bicycles and shopping carts. There were also 32 beds and frames, a similar number of stoves and refrigerators, and hundreds of tires and rims. Over 50 civic groups and towns joined CRWC in the watershed-wide Source to Sea event.
This anniversary year we’re looking for new organizations—scouts, schools, church groups, watershed associations—and interested individuals, to pitch in on September 30,” Megan Hearne says. The CRWC has information and materials available to help familiarize new groups and individuals with cleanup procedures. “This is a fun event. It’s a great way to get your feet wet if you’ve been considering volunteering.” And CRWC can present a slide program to help groups interested in joining the cleanup, “If you aren’t part of a group, we can link you up with one.”
To volunteer or participate in a local cleanup effort or to obtain more information about the Source to the Sea Cleanup, contact Andrea Donlon at: (413) 772-2020 ext. 205 or cleanup@ctriver.org, or go to www.ctriver.org. This year’s Cleanup is generously sponsored by New England Family Farms Milk. Other sponsors include CDM and the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) of Hartford.

Quinnipiac Valley Audubon Society “Discover Trail”
We will be having “Discover Trail” on Sunday, September 17th at Riverbound Farm at 1881 Cheshire Street in Cheshire. The event will be at 1pm and is perfect for children and grandchildren as this is a family event. Pick up your Discovery Trail question booklet and walk the various locations on the trails and in the nature center to find answers to all questions. Rain could cancel the event.

The Wallingford Garden Club at Parker Farms
Mary Ann McLaughlin, Wallingford Girl Scout, supervised a plan and installation of a garden at Parker Farms Elementary School’s new library addition with the assistance of Wallingford Garden Club Members Ellie Tessmer and Carole Golitko. This project was for the Girl Scout Gold Award which is similar to the Boy Scout Eagle Award. Two matching triangular sites were prepared and planted with materials donated by Wallingford Garden Club members as well as a $25.00 stipend for the project. Much was donated from Wallingford Public Works for the flower beds. Perennial and annuals were donated by Perennial Favorites and a Cheshire wholesale nursery. Scout leaders Bonnie and Al Thibodeau supervised the senior scouts and leaders in the planting process.
Additional donated plantings are planned for the fall with the Parker Farms Girl Scout Troops and consultants from the Wallingford Garden Club.

Only 2 more Saturdays for Wallingford’s Gardener’s Market
The Wallingford Center, Inc. and the Wallingford Garden Club co-sponsors of the 2006 announce that the last 2 Saturdays are September 9th and 16th.


Playground Meeting Rescheduled
Meriden, CT - August 16, 2006 - The Hubbard Park Playground Committee has rescheduled the design discussion of the new Barrier-Free playground, to Monday, September 25th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Griffin Room at the Meriden Public Library. Child care is available upon request. For more information call David Radcliffe at (203) 630-3566 or Joan Goodman at 630-3541. The Hubbard Park Playground Committee is holding a Playground Planning Session to discuss the design of the New Barrier-Free Playground planned for Hubbard Park. Please join us and bring your ideas! What: Playground Planning SessionWhen: Monday,September 25th 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.Where: Meriden Public LibraryGriffin Meeting Room David Radcliffe from Children First Initiative will facilitate the discussion. Child care available upon request. Please RSVP by September 20th to Joan Goodman (Hubbard Park Playground Committee member) by email: docjoanie@cox.net or phone (203) 630-3541 or to David Radcliffe by email: dwradcliffe@juno.com or phone: (203) 630-3566. Feel free to share this message with others you think would be interested in attending. We look forward to seeing you there!

Town of Cheshire
National Public Lands Day Celebration

Join the Town of Cheshire in the celebration of National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 30, 2006 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the DeDominicis property. National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands American’s enjoy. Hosted by the Cheshire Environment Commission, volunteers will improve trails at the DeDominicis property in southeast Cheshire. Cheshire is the only town in New Haven county participating in this national event. The 185-acre DeDominicis property, a key portion of the Town’s eastside greenbelt, is the largest coniferous forest within the town. Attendees should plan and dress appropriately for work in the woods. The event will be held in clear or light rain conditions. The event will be cancelled in heavy rain conditions. Meet at the trailhead on Old Lane Road. On street parking only.

For additional information please contact Suzanne Simone, Environmental Planner, at (203) 271-6670 or ssimone@cheshirect.org