Events and Happenings for October

The Senior Buddy Readers Program
Seeks Volunteers
The Senior Buddy Readers intergenerational mentoring & literacy program is currently seeking volunteers for the 2006 -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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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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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. **

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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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 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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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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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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Meriden Supporters Wanted to Achieve Universal Health care in Connecticut
Do you want quality, affordable healthcare? Do you know someone who is struggling to get the healthcare they deserve? Does your business have trouble affording insurance for your employees?
If so, you will be interested in attending Meriden’s Public Forum on “Achieving Universal Healthcare Together.” The healthcare4every1 campaign through Meriden Children First Initiative will be sponsoring this public event. This campaign is committed to organizing a network of diverse Connecticut residents in order to build public and political support to achieve Universal Healthcare in Connecticut.
There are more than 356,000 Connecticut residents that have no health insurance coverage and more than 4,500 Meriden residents who are uninsured. This public forum will be one to generate discussion on what would be an ideal health insurance plan and how we can promote this initiative in order to achieve Universal Healthcare throughout the state of Connecticut.
Together we can achieve Universal Healthcare in Connecticut. Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire have achieved Universal Healthcare; let’s be the next! Please make your voice be heard and show your support on Wednesday October 25th from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. at John Barry School cafeteria. Daycare can be provided at your request. State Representative Senator Christopher Donovan and State Senator Thomas Gaffey will be the keynote speakers as they are avid supporters of this campaign. Juan Figueroa, President of the Universal Health Care Foundation and Mayor Mark Benigni will be presenting at the forum. Please invite your family, friends and colleagues to show your support. There will be a translator available for Spanish speaking families. Please contact Marissa Cardona at (203) 815-5680 or Dante Bartolomeo at (203) 815-5758 by October 20th to confirm your attendance or for any information on this important initiative. Remember: Healthcare is a right!
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Enter Essay Contest to Win New Playground for Hubbard Park
Please help win a new barrier-free handicapped accessible playground for Hubbard Park! Hasbro is sponsoring an essay contest offering a $300,000 BoundlessT Playground for one grand prize winner's community, and online gift cards valued at $125 each for twenty finalist prize winners. Submit an original 500 to 750 word essay by November 30th, along with the completed entry form. One entry per family. Go to www.hasbro.com/playskool, click on In the Community/ Boundless Playground for contest rules and to download the entry form. The entry form is also available at www.noahsarkofhope.com .
For more information about the playground project send an email to hubbardParkPlayground@peoplespressnews.com
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CRAFTERS NEEDED FOR CRAFT FAIR
A craft fair is being Sponsored by the Yalesville Vol. Fire Department Meriden/Wallingford Relay for Life Team and crafters are needed. It will be held on Saturday, November 11th, at the Yalesville Vol. Fire Dept. 143 Hope Hill Rd in Yalesville.
The fair will run from 9 – 3 p.m. Anyone interested in having a space, and would like more information and a registration form, please call Diane at 265-5576.

YALESVILLE VOL FIRE DEPT CRAFT FAIR


Craft fair November 11, 2006, Yalesville Vol Fire Dept. 143 Hope Hill Rd Yalesville
Sponsored by The Yalesville Volunteer Fire Dept, American Cancer Society, Relay for Life Team

Please read all rules before filling out application


Last Name ---------------------------------------------First Name--------------------------

Street---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

City----------------------------------------------------State----------Zip----------------------

Phone ( ) -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Description of crafts--------------------------------------------------------------------------


Fair will run 9 – 3 p.m.
All crafters must remain till 3pm
Spaces are 8 feet in length
Price $25.00 per space if you provide your own table 8-foot length maximum
$30.00 per space if we must provide a table for you – 8-foot table

**Spaces needed without table------------------------------- with table-----------------

**Total payment due: $-----------------------------------------

**Due to space restrictions please be advised that one space will be limited to a maximum of 8 feet long.
**You will be required to pay for an additional space (or spaces) for racks, baskets, shelving, etc. that is not part of the 8 feet.
**Items cannot be placed on the floor in front of tables due to a fire restriction.
**If you do not require a table due to the nature of your craft, you will still pay for 8 feet for each 8 feet you require.
** Each $30.00 space will be provided with an 8ft x 30 inch table and 1 chair.
** Each $25.00 space will be provided with 1 chair.
** Each vendor is responsible for his or her own state sales tax.
** Each vendor is required to remain at the fair until 3 p.m.
** Each vendor is asked to donate a craft item to our Tea Cup Raffle.
** No Tag Sale items.
** We will try to honor special requests such as (electricity, handicapped, etc)

** Special Requests__________________________________________________

** After you have unloaded your vehicle it must be moved from our parking lot.
** Parking will be available at neighboring schools.

The applicant hereby applies for space in the Yalesville Craft Fair and agrees to abide by the fair rules which have been read by the applicant.


Signature---------------------------------------------------------Date-----------------------

Please complete this form and mail with full payment to:
Diane Raccio
Craft Fair Registration
50 Nod Brook Rd
Wallingford, Conn. 06492

Please make checks payable to Diane Raccio
A confirmation letter will be sent to you with set up times as soon as possible. Thank you for joining us.
Yalesville Vol. Fire Dept. Relay for Life Team
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WE CARE [Wallingford Early Childhood Alliance Resources and Education] is sponsoring a special teachers workshop for teachers in local child care centers serving children 0 -5 yrs. on Monday evening, October 16, 2006, at the Wallingford Community Day Care Center, 80 Wharton Brook Drive, Wallingford. Program time: 5:45 p.m./supper - 6:15-7:45 p.m./class. Workshop will feature PAPILLION, a performer/educator from New Orleans. He brings a message of diversity and cultures to early childhood professionals. He teaches a message that says "Welcome and integrate, but please don't assimilate." He will bring songs and stories from the history of Louisiana. The program is free thanks to a grant from the Graustein Memorial Fund but monetary donations for the children of Katrina will be welcome. Continuing Education Units will be available at the end of the class.
To register call: Kelly at 294-2175
Submitted by Roberta Clouet, Program Coordinator for WE CARE
Tel# 949-0100
clouet103@comcast.net
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The Queens Zoo Harvests Autumn Fun During Fall Foliage and Bird Festival Weekend
Flock to the Queens Zoo on October 14th and 15th for the annual weekend event, Fall Foliage and Bird Festival Weekend! Embrace the magnificence of autumn while watching bears frolic, pumas play, birds fly and bison roam throughout spectacular landscapes reminiscent of America's most famous national parks.
Aside from the spectacular scenery, the Zoo offers crafts, games and Wildlife Theater during this zooified celebration of all things autumn. Activities are free with Zoo admission.
Activities include (From 11 AM to 5 PM):
Scavenger Hunt - Pick up the special Autumn Animal Quest Card at the Zoo's admission booth and then explore the grounds in search of answers to some of life's most interesting questions - Why do birds migrate in the fall? How do leaves change color? And how do animals prepare for the long, cold winter ahead? (Throughout the Zoo)
Fun and Games - Kids can participate in the Great Fall Migration Game where they pretend to be a bird traveling south for the winter. Or, they can get 'hands-on' with nature and learn about the importance of trees and forests through a variety of activities. (Discovery Room)
Creative Crafts - It's all about those beautiful autumn leaves at this kid-friendly station for leaf rubbing and other leaf-related crafts. (Picnic Area)
Button Making - Create your own "leaf motif" button and wear it proudly throughout the Zoo. (Farm Area)
Story Time - Take a break from the foliage fun and listen to folk stories from various cultures about autumn, forest habitats, and trees. (Owl Exhibit - 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30)
The Queens Zoo is located at 53-51 111th Street in Flushing Meadow's Corona Park and is open 365 days a year. Zoo hours are 10 AM to 5 PM weekdays; 10 AM to 5:30 PM weekends. Admission is $6.00 for adults, $2.25 for seniors, $2.00 for children ages 3 - 12, and free for children under 3. Admission to the newly renovated Aviary is included in the ticket price for admission to the Zoo. For general information, please call (718) 271-1500, or visit our Web site at www.queenszoo.com
The Wildlife Conservation Society saves wildlife and wild lands. We do so through careful science, international conservation, education, and the management of the world's largest system of urban wildlife parks, led by the flagship Bronx Zoo. Together, these activities change individual attitudes toward nature and help people imagine wildlife and humans living in sustainable interaction on both a local and a global scale. WCS is committed to this work because we believe it essential to the integrity of life on Earth. To learn more about WCS, visit www.wcs.org
092106
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HALLOWEEN HAPPENING
When: Friday, October 27, 2006, at 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 28, 2006, at 8:00 p.m.
What: The silent film "Nosferatu," 1922, with live organ accompaniment by Shari Lucas. The film is based almost entirely on Bram Strokers "Dracula." Many people not only consider it the best Dracula film ever made, but the best horror film ever made.
Where: The First Church of Christ, 190 Court Street, Middletown, CT. Exit 15 off Route 9, take first left onto Main Street, then first left onto Court Street.
Fee: Suggested donation of $5.00 per person and $10.00 per family
Info: 860-346-6657
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Volunteers Wanted For Meriden Public Schools
The Meriden Public Schools Volunteer Program is currently seeking media help at 2 elementary schools. This opportunity would consist of helping the library/media teacher check out books with elementary students and other related media tasks.
If you would like to help out and have some fun, please call, Nan L Despres, Coordinator of Volunteers at 634-7985.
Other volunteer opportunities in the Meriden Public Schools also exist. One half hour a week is all that is required. Training is provided. We will work around your schedule.
All are encouraged to volunteer. Retirees and Bilingual are very welcome.
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St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Meriden will hold a Holiday Fair on Saturday, November 4th, 2006, from 9-3. This year’s theme is "Winter Wonderland."
Tables for outside crafters are available. For information/application please call Pat @238-4227, Jen @238-2283 or the Church @237-7451
The fair will feature a basket raffle, bake sale, outside crafters, and a Cafe'.

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Pratt and Whitney Cancer meetingI would like to update you on some information on the Brain Cancer study at Pratt and Whitney, This is a long hard research study that has been going on for some time now. There will be a informational session meeting on Wednesday October 18, 2006, at 7:00 p.m at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center in Cromwell, Connecticut. I would like to encourage all people that are employeed at P&W, worked or are retired from Pratt & Whitney or anybody that is interested in the study to attend this worth while meeting. Get the information first hand from the Scientists and Researchers themselves. There will also be a time where you can sit down with the researchers and discuss your concerns and your issues. We are also still in need of employees that can help us describe processes from years ago. This is one of the largest studies in the world that has ever been conducted. We want to make this a most accurate and effective study. The researchers who are entrusted to this project are very highly qualified.
Dr. Gary Marsh Ph.D -- In charge of Epidemiology, he is the Principal Investigator ,From the University of Pittsburgh.
Dr.Nurtan Esmen Ph.D -- In Charge of Exposure Assessment. He is the principal Investigator from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Frank Lieberman M.D. In charge of Genetics. He is from the University of Pittsburgh.
All of these researchers have teams put in place to handle the heavy volumn of work. This is also a joint initiative between the International Association of Machinists District 26, The Department of Public Health and Pratt & Whitney.**
2006 CRAIG PAUL CLARK MEMORIAL SCRAMBLE
The 3rd Annual Craig Clark Memorial Scramble will take place Saturday, October 7th at the Tradition Golf Course, 37 Harrison Road, Wallingford, Ct. 06492.
Last October with the efforts and support of family and friends we commemorated our son, Craig. In spite of a cancellation, because of monsoon rains, we were still able to meet most of our goals. Thank you!
We awarded proceeds to:
A high school senior son/daughter of a Meriden City Employee to further his/her education.
The American Heart Association
The scholarship recipients each received $650.00 and The American Heart Association received $1,500.00.
The recipients were:
Shaina Bender-Maloney High School
Matt Kiernan-Platt High School
Jessica Heraldo-H.C.Wilcox Technical School

Please support this outing in memory of Craig that will continue to help others in his name.

You can help us by:
Recruiting a foursome $460.00 per team (18 holes, lunch & dinner)
Individual golfers can also register $120.00 per golfer
Making a Sponsor contribution $300.00/$200.00/$100.00
Attending “dinner only” $50.00 per person
Purchasing a Craig Clark Memorial cap $25.00
Making a monetary donation ( any amount) to the memorial fund

Once again, it’s time to sharpen your game, gather your foursome, and mark your calendar for this event. After a fun day on the course, please join us for a delicious dinner and awarding of great prizes including: a gas grill, a 15” television, an overnight stay and many other great prizes.
We give you our heartfelt thanks for your continued support and hope to see you in October.

Sincerely,
Paul, Myrta, Jeff & Patti




3RD Annual Craig Paul Clark Memorial Golf Scramble
The Tradition Golf Course 37 Harrison Road, Wlfd, Ct. 06492
Saturday, October 7, 2006 Registration at 11:30 AM
Foursome ($460) Individual $120.00 Dinner Only $50.00
Prizes awarded for: 1st place, runner up, last place-closest to the pin, etc.

REGISTRATION

Name (Captain)_______________________ Name___________________________
Address_______________________________ Address_________________________
City/State/Zip_________________________ City/State/Zip____________________
Phone________________________________ Phone___________________________
E-Mail________________________________ E-Mail__________________________
Dinner Only___________________________ Dinner Only_____________________

Name_________________________________ Name___________________________
Address_______________________________ Address_________________________
City/St./Zip____________________________ City/St./Zip______________________
Phone_________________________________ Phone___________________________
E-Mail________________________________ E-Mail__________________________
Dinner Only___________________________ Dinner Only_____________________


SPONSORSHIP CONTRIBUTION

GOLD SPONSOR ---------------- $300.00
SILVER SPONSOR --------------- $200.00
TEE SPONSORSHIP -------------- $100.00
MEMORIAL CAP ---------------- $ 25.00

Name_________________________________
Phone #_________________E-mail address____________________________
Sponsorship amount________________


PARTICIPANTS & SPONSORS PLEASE RSVP BY SEPT. 27th


Make checks payable to: Paul or Myrta Clark
165 Wayne 165 Wayne Lane, Meriden, CT 06450 Tel.# (203) 237-2513
E-Mail: paul.clark6@cox.net
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Christmas in the Village 2006
By Keith Gordon
8th Annual Christmas in the Village will take place on Saturday December 2, 2006.
Christmas in the Village started over a cup of coffee and a Snapple at Tom’s Place. Tom Caliendo owner of Tom’s and myself were talking about how we could bring some additional unity back to the Village of South Meriden. We decided to have a yearly Christmas in the Village celebration not knowing if it would take off and continue. It took off and it has been continuing each year even though we did get snowed out around three years ago. Tom and I started to talk to other stake holders in the Village i.e. Business, neighborhood leaders, churches, schools, South Meriden Fire and our community police officers. Well we put it together and the first year we had over 600 attend. The event now brings over 2000 each year to the Village where neighbors greet neighbors, friends meet friends, and new comers come and meet new friends and families come together to enjoy the sprit of the holidays.
We open the event with the Santa parade at 2:00 p.m. led by the Washington Drum Corp and a host of seasonal personalities. Santa is then stationed at The Fire Station where children get the opportunity to sit with Santa and tell him their holiday requests and get their pictures taken. Kellie and Sean Moore provide holiday music and sing alongs from the beginning to the end at the fire station along with face painting which is provided to all who choose to enjoy the art of Ruth Gordon from Fantasy faces by Ruth. For the past two years we have had Meriden Police crime prevention officer Tom Cirillo and his assistant doing AMBER Alert registration at the fire station, also this registration helps keep our children safe and is a free service.
Both Churches South Meriden Trinity United Methodist as a children’s bazaar and games and New Life Church this year will have a Living Nativity and goodies to munch on.
If everything goes correctly Hanover School will have its annual holiday book sale also.
The Main stage has entertainment happening during the event with master of ceremonies Ralph Riello giving away numerous gift items. There is the world’s best baked cinnamon apples stationed at Data Link corp. located at Main and Camp Street, manned by Jim Cournoyer and Ed Haberli and crew. We have popcorn, chestnuts, cider, candy and hot chocolate. There are games and arts and crafts. The Meriden Library book mobile is out on Main Street also. We also have participation from the stores on Main Street Deb’s Deli, Panda House, our New Karate School, Pet Parlor, Canine Training School, and the South Meriden Package Store. The two horse drawn wagons travel around the Village giving scenic rides letting people off at several stops along the way.
Hanover School students supply the art work decoration for the store front windows and the Christmas in the Village committee decorates the Street Lights with seasonal wreaths that have been purchased by the committee.
South Meriden Vol Fire Fighters handle the Bon Fire each year that is located at the Riverside Park on Main Street. The Christmas tree at Riverside Park will be lit by a student from Hanover school while seasonal songs are song with Mr.& Mrs. Santa a little after 5:00 PM.

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Connecticut VNA Announces Grand Opening of “The Art of Hospice Care” at NOMA Gallery in Middletown

Connecticut VNA’s Hospice has planned a grand opening celebration for the debut of their traveling art exhibit entitled, “Continuing the Journey - The Art of Hospice Care.” The public is invited to attend the opening of the exhibit on Friday, October 6, from 6 PM to 8 PM at the NOMA Gallery, 648 Main Street, Middletown.
The exhibit is an extraordinary and powerful multi-media display depicting the use of the arts in hospice care. It is a collection of paintings, drawings, photography, poetry, shadow boxes and more that have been done with, for and about ordinary people at the end of their lives. The exhibit highlights the unique gifts patients and their loved ones have received through Connecticut VNA’s compassionate and supportive Hospice team.
Susan Rosano, an Expressive Arts Therapist with Connecticut VNA’s Hospice team and an organizer of the exhibit, said the group wanted to show the public the incredible work that is being done with people at the end of their lives and how it can contribute to the process of emotional healing for family members and friends. “The poems we write with our patients -- the collages and drawings we help them make -- their hand castings -- all have become lasting memorials to them.”
Marion Donahue, President of Connecticut VNA, said the exhibit will help people understand the major role art and art therapy can play in helping them cope with a terminal illness. “The strength and intensity of the arts and complementary services in end of life care are tangible through this dramatic collection. Our complementary therapies team put a great deal of time and energy into developing this exceptional exhibit and we are very proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
“Completing the Journey: The Art of Hospice Care” will be on display at the NOMA Gallery through November 17, and will then be exhibited through various venues around the state. For additional information or to learn how you can showcase this traveling exhibit, please contact Susan Rosano at 203-679-5300.
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Meeting of Parent Support Group in the Naugatuck Valley Region for parents who have out-of-control adolescent and adult children.Tough LoveSt. Anthony's ChurchRoutes 68 and 69Prospect, CTWedensday evenings from 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
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THE MERIDEN SKI CLUB
The Meriden Ski Club was established in 1963 to provide it's members with skiing opportunities and skiing values.
The club sponsors a wide variety of activities, which include day bus trips to ski areas in Massachusetts, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.
Weekend and week long trips are also sponsored. This year they include weekend trips to Stow, Vermont, Burke Mountain, Vermont, Sugarbush, Vermont and Sunapee, New Hampshire. This year’s week-long trips will be to Whistler/Blackcomb, Canada, Banff, Canada and to Andorra, Spain. Each year’s trips are to different areas. In the past our trips have been to France, Italy and Austria.
The club also has a staff of ASIA trained ski instructors who provide ski and snow board lessons to our members and there children. Club instructors often offer instruction on ski trips that they may attend.
For members who are interested in ski racing the club participates in the Connecticut Ski Council Monday night race program at Mt. Southington. Many members also race in various race programs and in the annual Club Race. We also sponsor race training programs where members can learn to race.
We offer various ways to save on skiing costs. The Connecticut Ski Council offers close to 100 ski days when lift tickets, to various ski areas, can be purchased from $20 to $30. The club also purchases discounted bulk tickets that are sold to club members at reduced rates.
The Meriden Ski Club offers a wide variety of social events for members, their children and guests to participate in. These events are held through out the year. These events consist of a semiformal dance, Christmas party, members’ nights and an annual season awards banquet. In the past we have held outings to Block Island, picnics, bike rides, golf tournaments, baseball games and tubing. The club offers a listing of club members along with addresses and phone numbers. This information is furnished for the benefit of members who may want to contact other members to plan skiing or other activities.
On October 26, 2006, we will be having an Open House. At our open house we have representatives from different club trips and activities on hand to answer any questions a prospective member may have. Various ski shops and ski areas will also have representatives in attendance. Refreshments will be served and we will have door prizes which will include ski equipment and area lift tickets. This night will give prospective members a chance to talk to our members, ask questions and find out what the Meriden Ski Club has to offer.



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Quinnipiac Chamber Call for Nominations!
The Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce seeks nominations for its 7th Annual ATHENA Award luncheon slated for November 3, 2006, at Fantasia, 404 Washington Avenue, North Haven. Governor M. Jodi Rell is this year's Honorary Chair.
This prestigious award honors a person who has demonstrated the highest level of professional excellence in his/her business or profession; devoted time and energy to improving the quality of life in the community; and assisted women in attaining their full leadership and personal potential.
Past recipients include: Marjorie Dorr, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield; Dorsey Kendrick, Gateway Community College; Lesley Mills, Griswold Special Care; Simone Mason, A Different Perspective; Anita Silvestro, Girl Scouts, CT Trails Council, Inc.; and Maureen Campbell, H. Pearce Real Estate Co., Inc.
For a nomination form, please call 269-9891 or 234-0332 or download one from the chamber's website at www.quinncham.com. Submit completed nomination papers to: Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce, 100 South Turnpike Road, Wallingford, CT 06492. The deadline for nominations is October 13, 2006.
Register for the event online at www.quinncham.com or by calling 269-9891 or 234-0332 The QChamber gratefully acknowledges event presenter Robert's Chrysler Dodge, Inc; corporate sponsor New Alliance Bank and sponsor ConnectiCare. Media Support includes Business New Haven and Comcast Spotlight.
The Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce, winner of the NAMD Award of Excellence, represents more than 850 businesses and 26,000 employees in the Wallingford & North Haven area.

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HAWK IDENTIFICATION IS SUBJECT OF WORKSHOP Raptor Identification Field Workshop Saturday, October 21, 2006, 8:30 - 10:30 AM Lighthouse Point Park, New Haven
Instructor: Julian Hough
The fall raptor migration has begun with hundreds of hawks, falcons, and eagles appearing on the Connecticut shoreline over the past few weeks. October is the peak of hawk migration as thousands of birds pass by Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven on their southward journey. Sunrise Birding is pleased to offer wildlife enthusiasts the chance to sharpen their raptor identification skills during a special one session workshop on Saturday, October 21, 2006, from 8:30 - 10:30 AM at Lighthouse Point Park.
Join bird expert Julian Hough to learn the finer points of raptor identification based on relative size and structure, behavior and basic color patterns, plumage details, and other characteristics. Learn techniques for raptor identification at one of Connecticut's top hawk watching sites. Bird watchers will have the opportunity to practice their skills by observing and identifying raptors in the field and learn how weather and geography influence raptor migration.
The fee for each session is $25.00 per person, space is limited, and preregistration is required. Upon receipt of registration and payment, a confirmation will be sent via email with the exact meeting location. For more information and to register, go to http://www.sunrisebirding.com/workshop_raptorID.htm or call 203.453.6724.
Sunrise Birding offers personalized, authentic, affordable travel adventures, learning opportunities, and wildlife tours intended to reveal the splendor and diversity of the natural world.
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Crafters Wanted
The Fatima Women's Club of Our Lady of Fatima Church, Yalesville is sponsoring a craft fair on Saturday November 11, 2006, in the parish hall from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and crafters are needed. Please call Sandy P. at 235-2639 or Sandy C. at 269-6498 for more details.
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Corporate Leaders Take Steps
To Fight Breast Cancer --
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
With the chance of developing invasive breast cancer at some time in a woman's life about 1 in 7, knowledge of early detection measures, treatment options and risk factors are essential. Taking the first step to heighten breast cancer awareness Aetna, Mass Mutual Financial Group, Verizon Wireless and GMAC have agreed to serve as flagship sponsors of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Media partners include NBC 30 and Country 92.5 FM.
Making Strides celebrates survivorship around the cancer that resonates with the greatest number of Americans – breast cancer. With more than 9,000 thousand walkers participating throughout the state of Connecticut, nearly $1 million dollars was raised last year through the effort, half of which came from donors participating in the Hartford event.
Walk alone or with a friend in Hartford
This year, "Strides” will be held at Bushnell Park on Sunday October 15, 2006, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Individuals, families or friends are encouraged to contact the Society today. For registration and information call 1.800.ACS.2345, on the web at www.cancer.org/stridesonline or via email at Hartford_strides@cancer.org
"Corporate leaders have made breast cancer a priority by supporting Making Strides,” according to Laura Cambell, Area Director of Development. "We commend all of our sponsors, especially our flagship sponsors Aetna, Mass Mutual Financial Group, Verizon Wireless and GMAC.”
New Opportunities to Become Involved
Challenged with the need for continued funding, the American Cancer Society has expanded its sponsorship opportunities this year. In addition to its leading flagship sponsors, there are ways -- both large and small, financial and in-kind -- for businesses to become associated with the nations largest non-governmental breast cancer research supporter. A Ribbon-Of-Hope sponsorship of $2,000 entitles your company to a giant size foam-core board depicting the symbolic pink ribbon can be customized with your company name and logo, then prominently displayed at various points throughout the walk route. Sponsors can "take something away with you” after the walk with the Society's hope that you would proudly display it in your office or at special company events.
The Society is reaching out to the corporate community. "Make Making Strides work for you,” says Cambell. "Learn about team recruitment and American Cancer Society workplace programs and activities for employees.”
For more information about sponsorship opportunities for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Hartford, call Kathy Alexander, Director of Corporate Relations at 203.379.4820 or visit us at www.cancer.org/stridesonline.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 14 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.



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CRAFTERS WANTED
The North Italian Home Club
on 43 Thorpe Avenue in Meriden
will be having its annual Holiday Craft Fair on Saturday December 9, 2006, from 9:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Crafters interested in renting space may call MaryAnn at 203-238-4143 for more information.
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EXHIBITIONS AND PROGRAMS: NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2006
The Gallery's main building, designed by American architect Louis Kahn, reopens to the public on December 10. The reopening will feature masterworks from the African, Asian, early European, and modern and contemporary collections, including important new acquisitions. Information about special events for the reopening will be sent out in October. In the meantime, exhibitions, gallery talks, and master classes continue in the Gallery's Swartwout wing; please see link to PDF for complete schedule.

(+) The Gallery's Kahn building reopens to the public on December 10,
2006
(+) The new exhibition "Jasper Johns: From Plate to Print" opens December 10
(+) The new exhibition "Making a Mark: Four Contemporary Artists in Print" opens December 10
(+) The new exhibition "Responding to Kahn: A Sculptural Conversation" opens December 10

Complete calendar of events (PDF) is available at:
http://artgallery.yale.edu/pages/info/press.html
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Volunteers Needed for the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Sunday, October 15
Volunteers are needed for the 12th annual American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on Sunday, October 15, 2006, at Bushnell Park in Hartford, CT
More than 250 volunteers are needed to help the Society make strides against breast cancer. Opportunities to help include greeting walkers, registration, distributing snacks and drinks, directing traffic and parking, set-up and clean up. Individuals and groups are encouraged to become involved. If you have one or more hours to help anytime from 7:00 am. through the afternoon, please contact Kathy Maguda at 203.379.4875, via email at Kathy.maguda@cancer.org or in person at the American Cancer Society, 538 Preston Avenue, Meriden.
Making Strides is the oldest and largest one-day walk in the nation to fight breast cancer. Funds raised support the American Cancer Society's breast cancer research, education, advocacy and patient support programs.
For more information about Making Strides, visit www.cancer.org/stridesonline, call 1.800.ACS.2345.

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American Cancer Society Calling on Cosmetologists For Short Term Volunteer Opportunity
For women undergoing cancer treatment, the appearance-related side effects can be devastating. The American Cancer Society is helping improve the quality of life for cancer patients with a program that teaches beauty and self-image techniques to help cope with the side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation.
Currently a need exists for volunteers who would be willing to give a few hours – twice a year – to facilitate the program. Volunteers must be CT licensed cosmetologists. Full training and materials will be provided for all CT licensed cosmetologist interested in volunteering for the Look Good…Feel Better program.
New volunteer training will take place on Monday, October 2, 2006, at the American Cancer Society Offices, 538 Preston Avenue, Meriden, CT 06450, 2nd floor lunch room from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Advance registration is required by calling Juana Adams at (203) 379-4831 by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 28, 2006.
Look Good…Feel Better is a free, community based, national program of the American Cancer Society that uses the volunteer services of licensed cosmetologists to offer programs covering makeup, skincare, nail care, and options related to hair loss, such as wigs, turbans and scarves.
Of the dozens of anti-cancer treatments, each with its own set of possible side effects, some of the effects of treatment include thinning or loss of hair, eyebrows and eyelashes, skin tone discoloration and changes in nail texture and growth rate. Sarah Shafir, CT State Vice President of Cancer Control, says "Look Good…Feel Better is as much about improving and maintaining self-image and confidence as it is about appearance. Patients enjoy the opportunity to spend time in a relaxed setting with others in the same situation. And the free makeup and consultation from professionals helps them look and feel better.”
Look Good…Feel Better is a partnership with the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association Foundation and the National Cosmetology Association and is product neutral. While participants do receive a free kit of cosmetics for use during and after the workshop, the program is product neutral. Volunteers and program participants do not promote any product line or manufacturer. All cosmetics used in the group program have been donated.

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Help the American Cancer Society
Make Strides Against Breast Cancer
Join the fight against breast cancer by participating in the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer®, a five-mile noncompetitive walk on Sunday, October 15, 2006, at Bushnell Park in Hartford, CT. This inspiring event unites the entire community to honor and celebrate breast cancer survivors, educate women about the importance of early detection and prevention and raise money to fund lifesaving research and support programs to further our progress against this disease. To register or for more information, visit www.cancer.org/stridesonline, call 1.800.ACS.2345.
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Silver Bullets Basketball (60 years of age and older) Returns to Action in Wallingford.
Silver Bullets Basketball Begins Our Eighth Season with an expanded roster of 46 players ranging in age from 60 to 82 years old. We expect at least ten more to join us for scrimmages, games against other town teams, CT Senior Game teams (3-on-3 style), halftime exhibitions of our run-and-shoot offense at Quinnipiac University, University of New Haven and Yale University Men's Basketball games.
Sponsored by Wallingford Parks and Recreation, this is your opportunity to regain former skills or learn new ones in a friendly environment of your peers. We feature safe, injury-free competiton with special rules to accommodate age-appropriate play.
Come to Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department at 6 Fairfield Blvd. where we play every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from mid-September until May. You do not have to play every week or every time. Several guys go to Florida for the winter months, but are with us in the Fall and Spring. Modest fee payable to Town of Wallingford is $25 for Wallingford residents and $30 for others. We have two full courrts Wednesdays and Fridays. One court Mondays and some guys shoot around Tuesdays and Thursday when there is no formal play. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and we have coffee, etc. by 11:00 a.m. Join us for only coffee if you wish or just shoot around during our warm-ups to check us out.
Or, call (203) 294-2120... ask for Silver Bullets Basketball information.
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HeART of the State
October 21 & 22, 2006
Saturday: 10 am ­ 6 pm
Sunday: noon ­ 6 pm
Rain or Shine
Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, Meriden
Juried Fine Art Show of painting and photography set in the beautifully restored historic Augusta Curtis Cultural Center. Three floors of artwork along with booths on the grounds. Open to public free of charge.
For more information, please contact Staci Roy, director at 203-639-2856.


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October 21, 2006 8 p.m. A Spook-tacular Concert
Wallingford Symphony Orchestra
Choate Rosemary Hall Paul Mellon Art Center Main Theater.
Come in costume to hear some really spooky music! Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes. Music will include: Tam O'Shanter Overture by Malcolm Arnold; Danse Macabre by Camille Saint-Saens; Night on Bald Mountain by Modest Mussorgsky; Fantastique Symphonie by Hector Berlioz; and Suite from Alien IV by John Frizzell, a graduate of Choate Rosemary Hall. Soloist Jennie Brent, winner of the Polly Shulga Noonan Concerto Competition will be featured on the violoncello. Call 203-697-2261 for tickets and information
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"A Night for Noah" Hanover School Pasta Dinner
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
OH Platt High School
5:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Adults $10.00, Chlidren (4-12) $5.00, Children 3 and under Free
Tickets are available at the door or maybe purchased at:
Hanover School (Sept. 27 - 29th, 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. OR 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.)
Tom's Place (South Meriden)
Brookside Package Store (Broad Street)
Platt High School's Open House (Thursday October 5th, 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.)
If you would like to volunteer for this event please call Suzanne Orozco at Hanover School at 203/235-6359.


“A Night for Noah” Cocktail Party
Friday, November 3, 2006
Triple Crown Room, Colts Neck, New Jersey
7:00 p.m.
For more information contact Allyson Zenkert at noahsarkofhope@yahoo.com

“A Night for Noah” Dance featuring Riverstreet
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Mountainside Outing Club
8:00 p.m.
Ticket Info:
Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the following locations in Meriden:
JC Music
529 West Main Street
Fishers Fine Foods
21 South Colony Street
Katz Sports Shop
519 West Main Street
Valencia Liquors
1231 East Main Street
If you are interested in purchasing tickets or would like to volunteer for this event, please call Kathy Showerda at 203/235-4508 or Nancy Crispino at 203/237-7908.
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Events at Temple B'nai Abraham

Sing, dance, and rejoice with the Torah
Come dance, sing, and parade with Torah scrolls and flags as we celebrate Simchat Torah, the completion of the annual cycle of reading the Torah (the first five books of the Bible), and begin the new cycle. A Family Celebration will be held on Saturday, October 14th at Temple B'nai Abraham (127 E. Main Street in Meriden) with a light dinner at 6:30 p.m. followed by services at 7:00 p.m. All are welcome. Please RSVP by October 11th for the dinner by calling (203) 235-2581.
Sukkot Services and "Pizza in the Hut"
Come celebrate Sukkot, the Festival of Booths, a remembrance of the forty-year journey through the desert after God freed the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt, and they lived in temporary shelters (sukkot). Services will be held at Temple B'nai Abraham (127 E. Main Street in Meriden) on Saturday and Sunday October 7th and 8th at 9:30 a.m, with a "Pizza in the Hut" lunch to follow in the sukkah on Sunday. All are welcome. Please RSVP by October 5th by calling (203) 235-2581
Peanut Butter, Prayers, and Pajamas at Temple B'nai Abraham
A special interactive children's service featuring stories, prayers, and peanut butter sandwiches will be held at Temple B'nai Abraham (127 E. Main Street in Meriden) on Friday, October 6th at 6:00 p.m, in the sukkah (an outdoor hut built for the holiday of Sukkot, which represents the huts the Jews made as they crossed the desert). It is for children ages 4 to 8 and their siblings. Children are welcome to come in their favorite pajamas, and bring their special blanket and stuffed animal. Early evening services follow at 6:30 p.m. For more information call Linda Caplan at (203) 235-2581.

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Benjamin Franklin Elementary School Fall Family Night
Hayride, pumpkin carving, snacks, and late night at the book fair on October 26thfrom 6 - 8:00.
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Are You ready For some fun? Kiwanis Kapers is coming November 3 & 4th!
Kiwanis Kapers presents "Those Were The Days.” Celebrating Meriden's Bicentnial & 55 years of Kapers. Join us for this highly entertaining variety show reflecting back on some of the more memorable moments of our past. This years show brings back some of our alumni performers and is filled with humor and a variety of acts sure to please first-timers as well as seasoned Kaper-goers. George says he's been warming up his vocals all summer long! Where? Maloney High School When? November 3 & 4 Time? 8:00 PM. All proceeds directly support Kiwanis sponsored community activities .
Tickets call Dave at 537-6175.
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Old Saybrook Fire Department is pleased to announce the 9th Annual Haunted Hayride, 2006. All year long we put out the fires, but during Halloween, we ignite a blaze of scary for all to enjoy
A possessed tractor-drawn hay wagon leads you into the deep, dark, demented woods of Middlesex County. For more than fifty minutes, you will venture into the ghastly world of ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. In the fog, you'll be frightened by the eerie sounds of nature versus creature. Which are in front?
which are behind, and witch are beyond?

Where: CLARK MEMORIAL FIELD 210 ELM STREET & INGHAM HILL RD (Across from
Pasta Vita), OLD SAYBROOK, CT

When:
THURSDAY OCT 19, FRIDAY OCT 20 & SATURDAY OCT 21
FRIDAY OCT 27, SATURDAY OCT 28 & SUNDAY OCT 29

TRAILER RIDES START AT DUSK 7 p.m.

$10.00* ADULTS, CHILDREN UNDER 12 - $5.00*
*Bring a can of food to donate for the Shoreline Soup Kitchen & receive $1.00 off admission

*ADVANCE GROUP SALES OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VISIT:
_www.oldsaybrookfire.com_ (http://www.oldsaybrookfire.com/hayride.html) /hayride.html
*Groups of 20 or more, includes express admission.

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INTERFAITH VOLUNTEER CARE GIVERS WALLINGFORD WANTED!
Volunteers to help frail, elderly neighbors shop, get to medical appointments, provide respite to a family member.
QUALIFICATIONS:
People with a warm, loving heart and one or two hours of time each week. No hands on care!
BENEFITS:
Feel great about yourself!
Have fun!
Plan you own hours!
Meet new people!
Become an Interfaith Volunteer Care Giver! Find out more by calling Marie Cunha, Social Worker, Wallingford Senior Center at 265-7753.

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Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield
New Medicare Advantage HMO Plan
Information Session
Wallingford Senior Center
Friday, October 27, 2006
10:15 a.m.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield have rolled out a new HMO Plan. Medicare beneficiaries can receive their Medicare benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan. Learn about premium costs, co-payments and extra benefits of Anthem's new HMO plan. Then you can compare costs and benefits of this new HMO plan with traditional Medicare Part A&B coverage and a Medigap insurance policy. Please call 265-7753 to sign up; open to the public.
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MEDICARE PART D OPEN ENROLLMENT INFORMATION SESSION
Wallingford Senior Center
Thursday, October 26
10:15 a.m.
The next opportunity to enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan is November 15 through December 31, 2006. Even if you are already enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan please come learn about:
a.. Medicare drug plan coverage for 2007
b.. How to switch from one drug plan to another
c.. Who gets "Extra Help"
d.. How does the "Coverage Gap" work
e.. How to delay or avoid reaching the "Coverage Gap"
Please register for this program by calling 265-7753; open to the public.
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COURSE FOCUSES ON FALL MIGRATION OF BIRDS
By popular demand, Guilford-based Sunrise Birding is offering another Fall Migration Bird Watching Course in October and November. Taught by instructor Gina Nichol, this course offers beginner and experienced bird watchers the chance to practice bird watching, gain experience, and improve bird identification skills with fall migrants including shorebirds, raptors, sparrows, and more. Participants will learn how to use field marks, habitat, behavior, and sound as aids in identification. Through field observation, bird watchers will learn how to identify birds with confidence and gain knowledge of where and when to look for birds.
The series of three outdoor sessions is offered on Tuesday mornings beginning October 31 and continuing on November 7, & 14, 2006, from 8 - 10 AM at Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven. Lighthouse Point Park is a hotspot for bird migration through November. Many migrant birds including Cave Swallow, Brant, Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasted Merganser, Common Loon and other waterfowl pass through the park on their southward journey. Other species possible can include Rough-legged Hawk, Great-horned Owl and shorebirds including Yellowlegs and Dunlin.
The fee for the course is $69.00 per person. Discounts are available to supporters of local conservation organizations. Advance registration is required.
For more information and to register, go to http://www.sunrisebirding.com/fall_migration_courseII.htm.
Sunrise Birding offers personalized, authentic, affordable travel adventures and learning opportunities intended to reveal the splendor and diversity of the natural world.
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You can HELP!!!
Australia's island state of Tasmania is home to unique ecosystems that contain some of the Earth's most incredible plants and animals. Yet one lumber company, Gunns Limited, is rapidly destroying its 400 year old trees, polluting its streams, and killing off its wildlife, including protected or threatened species. Tell Gunns Ltd. to stop its destruction of Tasmanian forests and wildlife! Despite global protests, Gunns Ltd. is clear-cutting the world's tallest hardwood trees and ancient old-growth forests in the most despicable ways imaginable. This company is responsible for:
clearcutting roughly 44 football fields of pristine forests everyday
destroying 400-year-old trees
firebombing the clear-cut land with napalm, incinerating wildlife habitat
poisoning hundreds of thousands of the surviving wildlife with 1080, a toxin banned in many countries
No corporation has the right to destroy our natural resources in this way! Please join the fight to save this precious ecosystem by taking action at: http://go.care2.com/e/M_Q/rq/CFtJ In the words of singer Olivia Newton-John, "Where once awesome trees formed pillars of a dense and vibrant forest ecosystem, what remains are barren landscapes reminiscent of a devastated battlefield. And there’s much more to come if we don’t put a stop to it." "What Tasmania has now is a natural wonder. And what we’ve already lost to unmitigated corporate greed cannot be replaced in our lifetime ... or our children’s. Please, help put an end to Gunns’ profit-driven destruction of our natural wonders, our natural legacy."
Publisher's Note: It is one of our missions to help save our world and all species from extermination. If you know any local, national or global issues that we can help with - please let us know.
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Miss Bristol looking for her new court!!!!Teen / Junior / Little / Petite 2007 Pageant will be held on November 18th at Chippens Hill Middle School in Bristol.
Signs up are now being accepted. This is a fundraiser for the Miss Bristol Scholarship Program. The winners of each title will spend the year with Miss Bristol 2007 aiding her in community involvement and appearances. Applications can be found online at www.missbristol.org or at Donnas Floral 116 Central St in Bristol. You can mail your applications to 36 Spring St Bristol or bring them along with your check to the first rehearsal. Checks are to be made payable to the Miss Bristol Scholarship Program.
Payment and entry cut off date is Oct 21, which is also the date of the first rehearsal for the Little and Petite division. Practice will be from 3 – 5 p.m. The age range for Petite is 6-7-8, Little 9-10-11. Teen and Junior will practice on Oct 22 from 10 - 12:30. The age range for Junior is 12-13-14, Teen 14-15-16. Our Teen title holders go on to compete at the next level, The Connecticut Outstanding Teen Pageant with that winner going onto the Miss America Outstanding Teen Pageant. Please check online for the complete practice schedule and information on all divisions. Practice will be held at Dance Arts Center 12 Linwood St in Forestville. Do not miss out on a wonderful experience where your daughter can gain self confidence and learn tools she will use throughout her life while having a wonderful time in the process. This pageant is open to anyone living in the general area. If you have any questions please check our web site as it has all information needed or you can call Diane Pelletier at 860-583-3824.
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Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
About 1 in 7 women have the chance of developing invasive breast cancer at some time in their life. Early detection measures, treatment options and risk factors are essential. Taking the first step to heighten breast cancer awareness Aetna, Mass Mutual Financial Group, Verizon Wireless and GMAC have agreed to serve as flagship sponsors of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Media partners include NBC 30 and Country 92.5 FM.
Making Strides celebrates survivorship around the cancer that resonates with the greatest number of Americans – breast cancer. With more than 9,000 thousand walkers participating throughout the state of Connecticut, nearly $1 million dollars was raised last year through the effort, half of which came from donors participating in the Hartford event.
Walk alone or with a friend in Hartford
This year, "Strides” will be held at Bushnell Park on Sunday October 15, 2006, beginning at 9:00 a.m., with opening ceremonies beginning at 10:00 a.m. Individuals, families or friends are encouraged to contact the Society today. For registration and information call 1.800.ACS.2345, on the web at www.cancer.org/stridesonline or via email at Hartford_strides@cancer.org
For more information about sponsorship opportunities for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Hartford, call Kathy Alexander, Director of Corporate Relations at 203.379.4820 or visit us at www.cancer.org/stridesonline.

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RESIDENTIAL ELECTRONICS RECYCLING EVENTNov. 4, 2006, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.at North Haven High School221 Elm St., North Haven
ITEMS ACCEPTED: computers, monitors, phones, TVs, VCRs, copiers, fax machines, printers, radios, stereos, camcorders, microwave ovens.
ITEMS NOT ACCEPTED: electronics containing mercury, refrigerants or radioactive substances.
Available to residents of Cheshire, Hamden, Meriden, North Haven and Wallingford.
NO COMMERCIAL ELECTRONICS ACCEPTED
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL: Wallingford Project Coordinator at 294-2061.
Directions
From I-91 New Haven area: I-91 NORTH - Exit 9 (Montowese Avenue). Turn left at the end of the exit ramp. Follow and bear right on to Universal Drive. Continue through four traffic lights. At the fifth light, turn right on to Sackett Point Road. At the first light turn left on to Elm Street. North Haven High School is on the right hand side.
From I-91 Meriden area: I-91 SOUTH -Exit 12 (Washington Avenue). Turn left at the end of the exit ramp on to Washington Avenue. Follow Washington Avenue through the center of North Haven. Turn right on to Broadway. Follow to the next traffic light. Turn left on to Elm Street. Follow Elm Street through one traffic light. North Haven High School is on the left.
From Wilbur Cross Pkwy New Haven area: ROUTE 15 - Exit 63 (Bishop Street). Turn right at the end of the exit ramp on to Bishop Street. Follow straight through the first traffic light. At the second traffic light turn right on to Washington Avenue. Continue on Washington Avenue until you come to the Town Green on the left. Turn right on to Broadway. Follow to the next traffic light. Turn left on to Elm Street. Follow Elm Street through one traffic light. North Haven High School is on the left.
From Wilbur Cross Pkwy Meriden area: ROUTE 15 - Exit 63 (Bishop Street). Turn left on to Hartford Turnpike. At the traffic light, turn left on to Bishop Street. Follow straight through first traffic light. At the second traffic light turn right on to Washington Avenue. Continue on Washington Avenue until you come to the Town Green on the left. Turn right on to Broadway. Follow to the next traffic light. Turn left on to Elm Street. Follow Elm Street through one traffic light. North Haven High School is on the left.
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Come Support “A Night for Noah”

On Wednesday, October 18th, Hanover School will be sponsoring “A Night for Noah” pasta dinner, raffle, and magic show. This event is to help raise funds for the Hubbard Park playground that will be built in memory of Noah Bourdon, a 14-month old child who tragically died on August 11th after a playground accident. The event will be at Platt High School from 5:00-7:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased at Hanover Elementary School, Tom’s Place, Brookside Package Store, and Platt High School. Tickets are $10 per adult, $5 for children 4-12 years, and free for children 3 years and under. All proceeds from this event will be donated to Noah’s Ark of Hope. Your presence will offer support to the Bourdon Family during this time of need. Please help us to make this event a HUGE success!
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The Wallingford Historical Society will celebrate its’ 90th birthday on Saturday, October 21st with a dinner and entertainment fundraiser at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn.
For 90 years the Historical Society, founded in 1916, has been Wallingford’s “Attic” and has collected a variety of items that trace Wallingford’s history. Many of these items are on display at the Samuel Parsons House, the Society’s home. To protect all of these items, many of them very delicate, the Society needs a new, state of the art, environmental heating/cooling system for the Parsons House. It was decided to have a combination birthday party and fundraiser to help us in our endeavor.
On Saturday, October 21st the Society will start its’ celebration at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour and a four course dinner at Zandri’s Stillwood Inn on Route 5 in Wallingford. After dinner, Robert Olson, portraying Richard Potter, a nineteenth century magician from western Massachusetts, will recreate Potter’s magic with cards, coins, ribbons, boxes and a variety of other tricks of magic from over 150 years ago.
Robert Olson, from Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts, has spent the past 30 years studying and recreating Potter’s magic. “It all began with a Mysto Magic Set I received for Christmas” said Olson. The history part came later. He has performed at museums and historical societies across the United States, Canada and England. His performance will be done with 19th century props, appropriate costume and the language of the time. It is a performance not to be missed.
After Mr. Olson’s performance, the evening will continue with music for dancing and listing.
If you would like to attend this celebration, the cost is $45.00 per person for the evening. Tables of 10 may be reserved. For more information, telephone Pat or Ray Chappell at 203-265-0313.

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BENEFIT CONCERT
BAWA HEALTH INITIATIVE
SUNDAY OCTOBER 22, 2006 3:00 P.M.
FEATURING PATRICIA CORBETT, BROADWAY ARTIST
Gina Dunlap, Folk Musician; Jeanette Gross, Pianist; Kathryn Mazzucco, Singer
Show Tunes, Opera, Folk Songs, African Drumming, Popular Melodies, Reception, Silent Auction
This concert benefits the Bawa Health Initiative Bawa, Cameroon, Africa.
Donations: $5 Seniors & Children; $10 Adults. All donations are tax deductible.
First Congregational Church Corner Center & Main Streets, Wallingford, CT
This concert is sponsored by the Community and World Service Board, Family Life Center, Music Committee of the First Congregational Church. Information 265-1691.

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MOHEGAN SUN CASINO
The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club will be hosting a bus trip to Mohegan Sun Casino, on Saturday, November 4, 2006. The bus will leave the commuter’s parking lot next to Vinny’s Garden Center on RT 5 in Wallingford at 5 p.m. and will leave the Casino at 12:30 a.m. The cost of tickets are $40.00/pp, each ticket includes bus ride to Casino, two $10.00 bets and one $10.00 buffet coupon. You can purchase tickets at the Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club, 72 Grand Street, Wallingford, CT. Call for information at 203-269-7525.

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GALLERY 53
53 Colony Street, Meriden
(203) 235-5347
Tues. – Fri., 12 – 4 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Oct. 7 – Nov. 3, 2006
82nd ANNUAL OPEN JURIED EXHIBITION
OPENING RECEPTION SAT. Oct. 7, 2006, 2 – 4 p.m.
PUBLIC INVITED ADMISSION FREE FREE PARKING
The exhibition features approximately 100 artworks, including oils, watercolors, pastels, sculpture, photography, graphics and crafts. Prizes totaling more than $2,000 will be awarded.

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CALL FOR ARTWORK: 82nd ANNUAL OPEN JURIED EXHIBITION AT GALLERY 53
Gallery 53 of the Arts and Crafts Association of Meriden (ACAM) announces its 82nd Annual Open Juried Exhibition, starting October 7th through November 4th. The exhibit is open to non-members as will as members of ACAM.
Work will be juried by a selection committee. All work must be original and not executed in a class or with a teacher. The Gallery will be receiving artwork on September 29th from 12 - 4 p.m. and September 30th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Categories of work include oils, watercolors, pastels, drawings, sculpture, photography, graphics and crafts. Prizes totaling approximately $2,000 will be awarded. The reception is on October 7th, 2- 4 p.m.
For more information, call (203) 235-5347. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 12 – 4 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Gallery, located at 53 Colony Street, Meriden, is easy to reach from Routes 91 and 84. There is free parking across the street. Admission is free.

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“Power Hour Prize Club” & “Evening Programs” for the Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club of Wallingford.
Every member who enters the Club between the hours of 2:30 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. is required to put aside ½ hour of their time for homework. This program offers individual guidance for those who are struggling in certain subject areas. Power hour is a great way to get homework done, and there is always help available. Circuit City has donated the Boys & Girls Club tons of prizes, such as iPods, mp3 players, stereos, etc. All members who participate in our Power Hour Prize Club earn points based on their performance and behavior. At the end of the year, members will be able to bid on these prizes in an auction. We also give out monthly prizes such as gift cards, boys & girls club attire, etc.
The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club will start our evening programs on Monday, October 2, 2006.
Here is a breakdown of our evening programs schedule:
Monday from 6 – 7:45 p. m. Sports Night
Cultural Night
Tuesday from 6 – 7:45 p.m. Guys Night
Wednesday from 6 – 7:45 p.m. Cooking / Arts & Crafts
Latino Club Night
Thursday from 6 – 8:45 p.m. Teen Night
Friday from 6 – 8:45 p.m. Friday Night at the Club
Saturday from 10 – 5 p.m.
10 – 12 p.m. Soccer
12 p.m. Latino Club Meeting
12 – 5 p.m. Free Play

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American Cancer Society Makes Strides in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a month dedicated to increasing public knowledge about a disease that will strike an estimated 212, 920 women in the United States this year. During October, and all year long, the American Cancer Society pursues its goal of eliminating cancer as a major health problem by providing life-saving information and services, conducting community outreach and education, and advocating for local, state and federal legislation to insure that access to breast cancer detection and treatment is available to all.
Following the American Cancer Society's guidelines for the early detection of breast cancer improves the chances that breast cancer can be diagnosed at an early stage and treated successfully. All women are at risk for breast cancer, even if they have no family history of the disease. The American Cancer Society recommends the following approach to early detection to find the disease in its earliest, most curable stages: yearly mammogram (beginning at age 40), clinical breast exam (yearly beginning at age 40, and every three years for women ages 20 - 39).
The American Cancer Society offers several services that provide support to those patients and their families, who have experienced breast cancer. Information about cancer can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling the Society's toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 information line, or by logging onto their Web site at www.cancer.org.
Here in Connecticut, the American Cancer Society's Reach to Recovery program provides one-on-one visits to women dealing with breast cancer from other women who have shared a similar experience. Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer can learn how to cope with changes in their appearance through the Look Good…Feel Better program.
MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER
Community members can get involved in the fight against breast cancer by signing up for the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, to be held in Hartford at Bushnell Park on October 15, 2006. Funds raised at the Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer support services for cancer patients and their families, education, advocacy and research that benefit area breast cancer patients. Sponsors of this years' Making Strides Against Breast Cancer include Aetna, Mass Mutual Financial Group, Verizon Wireless and GMAC.
To register for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, or for more information about the American Cancer Society's breast cancer services and resources, contact the Society at 1-800-ACS-2345, or online at www.cancer.org/stridesonline or via email at strides_hartford@cancer.org.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 14 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

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This request is for you to include us whenever possible to keep the information available to the public on an ongoing basis.

Emotions Anonymous meeting 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Mallard Mill Activities room in Elim Park; 140 Cook Hill Road; Cheshire, CT. The program uses the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Alcoholic Anonymous adapted for working on emotional issues. Contact persons: David 203-271-2268 or Michael 203-729-2880.
Emotions Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, feelings, strengths, weaknesses and hopes with one another in order to solve their emotional problems and discover a way to live at peace with unsolved problems. The program uses the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous adapted for working on emotional issues.
The symptoms which lead us to participate in this program are diverse and include depression, anxiety, relationship or work problems, inability to cope with reality and psychosomatic ailments. EA is an anonymous, spiritual program with no affiliation with any specific religious program. People of many different religions as well as those with no religious affiliation are members of EA. There is no fee charged at our meetings; donations are accepted to cover meeting costs and to support the parent organization, Emotions Anonymous International. Our meetings are not run by doctors, therapists, social workers or other professionals; although, it is not rare for people in these professions to attend Emotions Anonymous meetings for their personal recovery like everyone else.
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The Southington Genealogical Society
Next meeting will be Tuesday, October 24th at 7:30 p.m. in the Old Milldale Firehouse. Swedish Genealogy will be the topic. Beth Bunko will present the program. Find out what you'll need to know about patronymic naming in order to trace your family's origins. Learn about parish, emigration, and military records that will help you in your search as well as some of the mailing lists that are full of helpful Swedish researchers. Discover what resources are available in the form of free and paid sites on the internet and familiarize yourself with the wealth of information you can find locally at such places as the Family History Center and the Connecticut State Library.
As always, no strings are attached, no reservations are required and the meeting is free of charge. Mrs. Bunko has been doing genealogy for about nine years. Beth's life-long curiosity about family history turned serious when her daughter had to prepare a family tree for a third-grade class. A specialist in Swedish and French-Canadian genealogy, Mrs. Bunko has also studied the family trees of some of the Mayflower Descendants and the Descendants of the Founders of Hartford. This work enabled her to become familiar with several sources for researching English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh land holders.
Beth grew up in Southington and lives in town with her husband and two children. 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 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of every month, except December, at the Old Milldale Firehouse, 91 Norton Street, Plantsville, Connecticut.

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Pasta Dinner Fundraiser to Benefit Ill Meriden Toddler
A Meriden couple coping with their son's extremely rare disease will be the beneficiaries of a Pasta Dinner Fundraiser to be held on Saturday, October 14th, from 3 p.m. to 7 .pm., at the South Meriden Firehouse, located on 31 Camp Street in South Meriden. The event, which will be held rain or shine, will help with the medical bills for one-year-old Hunter Pageau, son of Adam and Sharon Agli~Pageau.
Hunter has been diagnosed with SMARD1, which stands for Spinal Muscular Atrophy with Respiratory Distress. There are only 60 worldwide cases of this particular condition, which is progressively debilitating and fatal.
There is no cure, but there is hope!
Hunter has been hospitalized since April 3rd, resulting in massive medical bills beyond what Insurance will cover. Currently, the Pageaus are at Children's Specialized Hospital in Mountainside, NJ, and are working diligently to bring Hunter back home to CT. They are unfortunately in a hold pattern there, as they are unable to attain a Private Duty Nursing staff to assist with Hunter's care at home. There is a palpable nursing shortage, and to find qualified pediatric nursing staff has been a challenge.
Sharon Agli~Pageau was born and raised in South Meriden, and local contacts are coming together to organize this upcoming fundraiser to help her, her husband and their baby. After 6 months in various hospitals, Sharon decided to contact the Mayor and various City Council members in an effort to initiate fundraising options for Hunter. Most notably, she was touched by the response provided to her by Keith Gordon, Deputy Chief of South Meriden Vol Fire and Deputy Leader of the Meriden City Council.
Keith contacted Sharon and told her that while he receives many requests for assistance, he was immediately drawn to help Sharon and her family, as Hunter's story was so moving. Keith and Sharon have worked together for a month on putting this fundraiser together and very much hope it to be a success! In addition to the dinner, there will be soda and dessert, a 50/50 Drawing and Raffles, along with face painting and a fire truck demonstration for the kids.
The Pageaus want to inform as many people as possible about SMA, of which every 1 in 40 people are carriers. This condition involves a protein mutation, which destroys the nerves controlling voluntary muscle movement.
Hunter, for example, can barely move his legs. His condition is expected to advance upward, eventually leaving him in a state of paralysis.
The life expectancy for SMARD1 is 2 and younger, with there being a few exceptions. From the moment he was born, Hunter was unable to breathe effectively because his diaphragm is paralyzed, which is a very rare occurrence. For the first 6 months of his life, prior to hospitalization, he breathed utilizing his secondary muscles of respiration, and it was apparent to all that he was struggling to move air through his body. He now requires the use of a ventilator to breathe.
Hunter is an amazingly happy child and he is a true champion. He greets and embraces each and every day with a joy and exuberance that lights up the room and touches all who interact with him. Sharon wants everyone to know that Hunter has gifts to share with anyone who will take the time witness his life. With just turning one recently, he has already affected so many others with his positive demeanor and carries a strong message of faith and hope to all.
The Pageaus look forward to meeting new friends and regreeting old friends at the October 14th Fundraiser. They thank you in advance for your participation and support! For more information or to make a donation, please contact Keith Gordon at (203) 537-1016.

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Dear Business Owner:
As president of the Ladies’ Auxiliary of the North Italian Home Club of Meriden, I ask you to consider becoming a part of a memory. Our auxiliary is currently designing a game board devoted to celebrating our fine city and its 200 year history. The game is called SilverCityOpoly and we are honored to be granted the right to make this game our City’s Bicentennial Edition.
You are invited to claim your spot, your square, your place on the 2006 Bicentennial SilverCityOpoly game board. There are numerous levels of participation. All property sales on the board will be sold strictly on a first-come, first-served bases. There is a list of the varied levels of sponsorship attached. All proceeds from the game sales will go to a building fund, which the Ladies have established in hopes of making improvement to our club’s grounds located on Thorpe Avenue, right here in Meriden.
Be one of the lucky folks who recognizes what an incredible opportunity this is. For just a few cents per game board, you are placing a permanent advertisement to commemorate your business, your family name, the memory of a loved one or whatever you choose onto the board. That permanent part of our game board will be talked about, laughed about, played with and distributed to hundreds and hundreds of homes both within our city limits and beyond. Folks are bound to want to send our bicentennial edition to former city residents across the globe! With it will go your little piece of history.
Please place your order today. Time is of the essence. Be part of a very unique game board and be seen and heard from for years to come. Get in the game today by calling Sandy at 203-530-0236.
May you, your family and friends continue to thrive in Meriden as we all work to make our city a great place to live, work and play in. I thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Cynthia D’Agostino
President, Ladies Auxiliary

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“A Healthy Community” Natural Health Seminar Series to benefit local organizations
“A Healthy Community” Natural Seminar Series is being planned for the first 4 Tuesday evenings in October at Brother’s Restaurant in Wallingford. These classes will begin at 7:00 p.m. each evening. Refreshments will be served. This event has been organized by Lisa Suprenant. The classes will be taught by Dr. Adam Craig. This program is being presented to help educate the community about natural health care.
Dr. Craig is a local Naturopath Physician with a passion for education. Lisa has 12 years of experience working with clients as a Holistic Esthetician, and has recognized the need for the kind of education Dr. Craig brings to the community. The last seminar series Dr. Craig and Lisa hosted SOLD OUT!
The intention is to provide a valuable program which is a source of important information and also help raise money for 4 local organizations. Raffle prizes donated by local businesses will be raffled off each class. Each class’s profits will be donated to a different organization.
Dates Topics Organizations

Oct. 3, 2006 “Healthy Food” Wallingford Parent & Kids Foundation
“Holiday Community Dinner” program

Oct. 10, 2006 “Healthy Breathing” Wallingford Public Library

Oct. 17, 2006 “Healthy Kids” “Will Santa Find Me” Foundation

Oct. 24, 2006 “Healthy Aging” Wallingford Senior Center

TO REGISTER
CALL: (203) 213-8355 or e-mail: ahealthycommunity@sbcglobal.net
Pre-Registration is Recommended – SEATING IS LIMITED!
$10.00 each class (pre-registered)
$15.00 at door
$32.00 for all 4 classes (pre-paid)

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Platt High School Sports
Card & Coin Show

Dates
Oct. 7, 2006
Nov. 4, 2006
Dec 2, 2006
Jan. 6, 2007
Feb. 3, 2007
March 3, 2007
April 7, 2007
May 5, 2007
June 2, 2007

Table info 203-634-0069 Ernie
203-235-7962 x 139 Athletic office

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PLTI: A Building Block to A Better Meriden
By: Kristen Myers
It was a freezing cold January morning in 2005 when I ventured over to the Head Start building on Liberty Street in Meriden. Being a newer resident of the city, I wasn’t sure where I was headed so through the fog of my windows I thoroughly read over the directions again and again. I think it was maybe my nerves driving me to re-read the directions, or maybe the excitement of meeting new people.
I was headed to my orientation for the Parent Leadership Training Institute. I was going to begin a twenty-week course on parent leadership. PLTI of Meriden is an ever-growing group of empowered parents and care-givers who together have decided to commit to becoming stronger leaders and better advocates for their children and their communities. You can only imagine why I would be nervous.
One of the most unbelievable things to me about PLTI was the description and commitment it gave to me. “PLTI is a twenty-week course designed to assist in giving people some of the tools necessary to be stronger advocates for their children and their community.” They provide a 10-week session in which they teach about the structure of PLTI and the tools we each already bring with us. The second ten-weeks is a semi crash course in civics, (my favorite), in which we were taught how our state government, city and school systems work. We visited council chambers, we had city and state officials like, Mayor Bengini, Chris Donovon and PLTI grad Cathy Abercrombie come and discuss their roles, as well as, some “issues” with us. We were given much helpful information to guide us through any problems we may face with our children.
The thing that I found most fascinating about this entire program was the desire for the individuals to succeed. In addition to a both educating and enriching human experience, you are given free catered dinner on the evening of your class, free child-care during class time and assistance with transportation. This is a community project in Meriden that is geared toward creating stronger advocates for Meriden. This is community program that is set up to get us in the fight to get Meriden where it should be. More importantly, this community project gives us, the citizens, the tools reclaim the things we think we might have lost, and the plans to build something new for our community.
As I walked in and sat down at orientation I found myself comforted by the people who surrounded me. Most seemed quiet and a bit nervous, some were still coming in dragging children behind them. There were small candy bowls filled to the brim scattered across the tables. Two women began the class and introduced themselves. Katherine was small and soft spoken, her eyes were kind and she sat still much of the time. Shirley was a force, loud at times and yet her softness was always present. Shirley seemed almost placed there as a way to show us the differences we may see among ourselves. And it didn’t take long before we did. The class progressed and what happened that day was something that was surprising and necessary. Voices came together and the city was represented and differences were heard and we HAD TO hold hands and LOOK into each others eyes and I just left there thinking…wow. If every parent with a student in school had to take this course things in this city would change.
I wish I could sugar-coat this for you and say that the twenty weeks was a cake walk for me. It wasn’t. I was settling into the latter part of my third trimester by the time it was over and nearly missed my graduation. I can remember quite a few of us leaving some the civics nights frustrated and loving every minute of it later. This is after all our government, right? “By the people, for the people, of the people.” Therefore, if we don’t like something…make a change. You can only imagine the heated discussion and impassioned debate. The different races and nationalities in a room all bring their own piece of the pie. Some nights it was Thanksgiving, some nights Animal House. By and by, worth every Monday evening just to learn what I did.
Over the course of twenty weeks I met and knew some truly amazing people. I still get to call many of them friends. I still care about what is happening and better yet, I still know I CAN do something that can make a change. The small list of things we can do as parents in our community is too long for me to list. The one thing I will suggest, if you can, find your way to this program and get the tools so many of us did. You will not regret the twenty weeks of time well spent, people well met, or food well eaten. It’s a building block to a better community that only you can bring.

**Please contact David Radcliffe or Noami Gonzalez at Meriden’s Children First Initiative for more information. Applications are currently being accepted for the 2007 PLTI class and will be continued to be accepted until October 31, 2006.

**You can contact Noami or David by calling 203-630-3566 or by picking up an application in person at CFI, located inside the Meriden Public Library, Miller Street.