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Get Happy With It! By the People . . .

For the People Serving Central Connecticut


www.peoplespressnews.com
Wallingford Flower
& Gift Shoppe

190 Center Street. 203.265.1514


November 2008 • Volume 9, Issue 108

Get Your Good News Here!

There is one thing other papers and media have that The People's plethora of fun and interesting things to do each month.
Press doesn't - bad news. You'll always find the brighter side of Another commitment we made eight years ago - support the
life in our pages. Locally Owned Business ONLY. You won't find chain or mall ads
When we started eight years ago, we made a commitment to here. We understand the importance of locally owned businesses
share only good news and stories about your communities, fami- in a community. They help support you, your town and your local
lies and orgranizations. Now more than ever, we are glad to con- organizations. They add flavor and stability to our main streets.
tinue our mission. So we offer them a valuable way to reach their community; a
Who shares the good news and stories? You do. So do your place where they don't have to compete with large, national or
family, friends, and neighbors. The best part? It is free to share international operations.
and free to read. So share a happy memory with your community. Inside this issue, we have a holiday greeting photo form so you
Surprise a loved one with a photo and message. See your favorite can send a free holiday wish to a family member, friend or some-
recipe in print. Express your emotion in poetry. We love what you one who has made a difference in your life. Holiday greetings will
have to say - and so does your community. be printed in the December issue.
As your monthly newspaper, The People's Press is happy to The People's Press is proud to help bring the community
be your go-to place to find upcoming community events for people together in a unique and uplifting way. Grab a copy and put a lit-
of all ages. Non-profit Organizations, Libraries, Senior Centers, tle happy in your day. Remember you can also read every paper
Park and Recreation Departments, and other organizations offer a from 2000 on at www.peoplespressnews.com.
WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA
Page 2 November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!


Healthy Balance YTeen Programs
Youth & Government
This program is for teens in grades 9-12 who show an
interest in law and politics. Teens act as delegates and
write and propose legislation. After a series of meetings,
Youth and Government delegates from across the state will
present their legislations to the mock government at the
State Capital in Hartford. Experience first hand what the
government is all about. A weekend trip to the state capital
in March and a hotel stay at the Farmington Marriott
makes this program a lot of fun! Contact Tim Baker at 284-
7448 for more information. Meetings start in November.
Parents Night Out
Night on the Town
This program is designed especially for children in
grades K-6. The program will take place every other
A wellness program that addresses the health of the
mind, body, and spirit. Friday night from 6:30 - 9:30 PM. Kids will enjoy
This is a wellness program that addresses the health of the mind, pizza, games in the gymnasium, and swimming in the
body, and spirit. It is an 8-week session that includes 8 weekly group pool, while you spend some quality time together,
classes and 3 individual appointments. You will receive: without the kids!
Registration is Required!
*A personalized exercise program designed to help you meet your
fitness goals! Members: $15.00 Program Members: $25.00
* A text book with menu plans and recipes plus a lifestyle journal (a Dates: November 7th
$50 value!) December 5th and 19th
* Computerized diet analysis software to analyze your eating pat-
terns (a $20 value!)
* A better understanding of the impact of stress on health and ways Friday Night Family Fit Club
to control or eliminate stress November 14th - Family Water Aerobics
* A total lifestyle management plan that comes with a permanent
partner in your quest for health - your Wallingford Family YMCA!
Health and Wellness! Friday Night Family Float Night
Tai Chi is returning to the YMCA 7:00 - 9:00PM
Starting Tuesday Nov. 4 and Friday *Movies to be determined*
Nov. 7th. Increase balance, coordina- Dates:
tion, and lower blood pressure and November 21st
stress in a comfortable, gentle set-
ting.
Contact Fitness Dept for more info
* Lunchtime Barbell Pump classes
Monday-Thursday, and Saturday
12:30-1:15pm
*Active Older Adult Fitness Tuesday
and Friday 9:30-10:15am
Check out our website for a FREE trial pass
www.wallingfordymca.org (Coupon in the Health/Wellness
bble
area of the site). Come see how much fun getting in e , G o b ble, Go
Gobbl e games
will
your best shape can be! T u r k ey Tim h e m e d
It's ay t a healt
hy
a n k s g iving D m a n d
Lifeguard class being held in December around Christmas Th eg y
ed in th
vacation. Contact the YMCA for more information and dates be play l be served.
il h
snack w ovember 16t rs:
Wallyball ,N Membe
Sunday Free Program
Come and play a new and fun game- rs:
Membe
Wallyball- Its like volleyball but walls are in ily
$10/fam
play. Call the Y for details

SCUBA SANTA

December 7th
1:00-4:00 p.m.
Members: Free
Y Child Care Program
Early Learning Center- on the Members:$10
grounds of Gaylord Hospital
Full time toddler spaces
available
Part time availability for 2, 3,
and 4 year olds.
Contact Karen Wu at 284-5920

81 So. Elm Street, Wallingford 203-269-4497 www.wallingfordymca.org


Page 3 November 2008

Family Night -Wallingford Public Library Polymer Clay Turkey Pin Program
Friday, November 3rd 7:00p.m. Costello brings his background in theater to the stage in Saturday, November 8th 2:00p.m.
a one-man variety show. Join us for a stomping good time with stories, rhymes and Kids, ages 8-12, will create a cute turkey pin out of polymer clay to wear on
activities about dinosaurs. This program is for families with children ages 3 to 8 but Thanksgiving-or any time of year you want to celebrate the turkey. Wallingford residents
younger, interested siblings are welcome. Wallingford residents may register beginning may register beginning Saturday, October 25. Non-residents may register beginning
Thursday, October 23. Non-residents are welcome to call the day before the program to Friday, November 7. To register, stop by or call the library at: 284-6436. For further
see if there is space available. For further information, or to register for this program, information, or to register for this program, stop by or call the Children's Library at
stop by or call the Children's Library at 284-6436. 284-6436.
Page 4 November 2008

SUPPORT THE ARTS! Thanksgiving


With the holidays coming, what better way to honor the spirit of the season than to support the Arts and Crafts By Anna Sampson
Association and its artists, by giving a unique, hand crafted, gift to all the special people in your life! Don't miss out
on the fabulous hand crafted holiday items including original oil paintings, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, accessories and
more! It seems to me that we're reminded of blessings every day, but too
The Arts and Crafts Association of Meriden/Gallery 53 invites you to share the joy of the season at their ANNUAL often we choose to ignore them. Sure, we are thankful that we have a
HOLIDAY FAIR, Dec 6 thru Dec 24. The reception is Dec. 6th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and open to the public. Come wonderful son, but how often do we reflect on that as we are rushing
share the fun and enjoy the hors d'oeuvres! to get to work each morning? Granted, we have a full refrigerator, but
Gallery 53/The Arts and Crafts Association has been serving the community for over 100 years, is a non-profit what am I going to fix for dinner tonight?
organization committed to promoting and encouraging the arts through educational programs, exhibits, workshops and
lectures.
Gallery hours are from 12:00 to 4:00PM, Tuesday - Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 2:00PM. Free parking is Americans use the Thanksgiving holiday as a yearly reminder to take
available across the street and there is easy access from I84 and I91. For more information visit their website: stock in all that we are thankful for, but too often it is a time to double
www.gallery53.org or call 203-235-5347. check our groceries, fuss about cooking, and worry about who we
should invite to the celebration.
Upcoming Events at The Augustis Curtis Cultural Center!
"Seniors Art Show" Seniors Have Dreams Too! Trees will be on display at all Events @ The Center I propose that we take a more aggressive approach to our good fortune
Thursday, November 13, 2008 5:00pm to 8:00pm There is no admission fee to view the by using a technique my mother taught me when I was very young.
Seniors Have Dreams Too Inc. will present its first trees.....Viewing times to be announced. Although our family was not big on church and prayer, we had a firm
Seniors Art Exhibit and Sale. Admission is $20 and - Come out and see this beautiful display of trees, belief in God. In holding true to that belief, my mother told me to take
$10 for Seniors and students. Food and Beverages will wreaths, and centerpieces donated by local businesses time to think of all the things that I had, both material and not, as I
be provided and door prizes will be awarded. and non-profit organizations all over the City of went to bed each night. This was not a prayer, but a silent way of tak-
- For more info call Sally Smith @203-265-5801 or Meriden. Bid on your favorite item for yourself or a ing stock of the benefits I reaped each day as a member of a loving,
Betty Berger @ 203-631-9286. Seniors Have Dreams special gift for the Holidays, if you have the winning
Too, Inc. is seeking artists and craftspeople who would bid items from the Holiday Auction can be picked up middle class family in the United States. (And, as I found out later
like to exhibit and/or sell their work at the event. on Dec. 15th & 16th.... Come and view the display with my own kids, a great way to calm them down for sleep.) I must
Anyone interested in exhibiting must be over 55. just to get into the Holiday spirit and bring some admit there were the nights when I would brood. "All I want is a new
friends!!! Support your local non-profit by bidding on kitten; " I would internally lament. "I never get anything." But then,
Annual Augusta Auction their tree, wreath or centerpiece. They get half of the it's easy to be complacent when you are absolutely sure there will be
Saturday, November 15, 2008 proceeds that there item brings in... Tree display open something for breakfast in the morning, and you will always get a
Dear Friends, Neighbors and Supporters, daily Nov. 28th through Dec.3rd , 11am to cake for your birthday. This is why the exercise seemed futile at times.
The Augusta Auction 2008 arrives this year on 7pm...........All other days call for times.
Saturday night, November 15th, and we hope you will When crisis hit, reverting to the technique always seemed to comfort a
be able to join us. 90th Anniversary of Rosa Ponselle's Debut at the depressed mind. Yes, I am in the hospital. The stress level is high and
The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center is an indepen- Met I feel like crap, but my husband loves me, I got flowers from my
dent, self-supporting non-profit organization dedicated Sunday, November 16, 2008 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm friends and when I get home I am sure to be hugged by at least three
to fostering art, science, history, sports and social inter- Valerie Bubon will be presenting program. wonderful children.
action for people of all ages, races, religions and beliefs Fundraiser for ACCC Admission $5.00
in the greater Meriden area. Each year we must raise - Valerie Bubon, well-known lecturer and opera This year, forget about the turkey. Or at the very least, give it less
upwards of $80,000 to keep it running smoothly. We teacher, will present a program to celebrate the 90th
raise this money through the contributions of hundreds Anniversary of Meriden-born diva Rosa Ponselle’s importance than you did last year. Worry not about the relative taste
of individuals and organizations in the form of annual Metropolitan Opera debut through a visual and audio value of the meal, but marvel at the fact that you have all this food
memberships, building rentals, out-right donations and presentation of Verdi’s Opera "La Forza del Destino". available and at your disposal in the nearest supermarket. There are
participation in our fund-raisers. Ponselle debuted with the great tenor, Enrico Caruso on many, many people who do not. In the same vein, if a hardship comes
We hold the Augusta Auction annually. This gives November 15th, 1918 at the age of 21 in the role of about, look at it as a loss that will eventually bring about a gain. The
us the opportunity to gather rare, unusual, and desir- Leonora. In addition to hearing Ponselle in song and world runs on cycles. People are part of the world and our lives will
able items. This results in bargains for the public and interview, an excerpt from the Met broadcast of March have hills and valleys. But we go on. Every day. Until we don't. That
generates vital funds for the center. Items generally sell 24, 1984 of the opera will be shown. There will be a
between $20 and $2,500, and run the gamut from $5.00 admission charge to benefit the Augusta fundrais- is good enough for me. The rest, said my mom, is just gravy.
antiques to construction services, thematic gift baskets er for the upcoming 2008-2009 season. For informa-
to get-aways in Martha’s Vineyard or Nova Scotia. The tion and directions to the Augusta, call 203-639-2856 Celebrations of Life and Home
Augusta Auction 2008 Catalog, containing advance or visit our website at: www.curtisculturalcenter.org
descriptions of auction items and their donors, will be
distributed in our area around November 1st. The cata- DAR "Plaque Discussion"
log will also showcase paid advertisements from area Friday, November 21, 2008 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
businesses. The Daughters of the American Revolution will be
A private preview party will be held 6:00 to 7:00pm doing a talk about the "Susan Carrington Clark Chapter
on the night of the auction. Guests will enjoy coffee of the DAR" Plaque located on the wall of the Center.
and desserts in the Rotunda, and may peruse auction The public is invited and admission is free.
items at their leisure, as well as choose seats for the - Mary Johnson will be leading the discussion on the
auction. Tickets are $15, or 2 for $25. Doors will then history of the plaque and light refreshments will be
open to the general public at 7:00 and the auction will served. For more information call Lois at 203-235-
begin at 7:30. Once again the professional staff of Nest 7778
Egg Auctions have volunteered to conduct the auction Arts,Crafts, & Baked Goods Fair
on our behalf, assisted by some of our dazzling local Saturday, November 22, 2008 10:00am to 3:00pm
community leaders. Enjoy this artistic extravaganza of arts, crafts &
We hope you’ll join us for the auction on November baked goods all for sale......Enjoy our Holiday Display Meriden's Israel Putnam Elementary School Cub Scout Pack 29 enjoyed a
15th and get some of your Christmas shopping done! after you shop for those special items! Family Fall Day at Norton Farms in Cheshire. It was a beautiful, crisp
We’re also hoping to enjoy your company at the private - If you would like to participate as a vendor at this sunny autumn day to take a hay ride throughout the farm's 11,000 apple
preview party. If you would like to donate an item or event tables ar $25 per table and they will be round
trees. The Scouts learned all that goes into growing and caring for apple
service to the auction, or want to run an ad in our high- tables. Call Lisa at 203-238-1510 to reserve.
profile catalog, we have attached the forms for your trees. The tour included the apple sorting and packing area followed by
convenience. Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra cider and apple donut holes - yum yum.
As always, we thank you for your interest and sup- "Thanksgiving Concert & Open House"
port. CCCYO & ACCC
Live Auction featuring Nest Egg Auctions. Sunday, November 23, 2008 2pm to 6pm
- Live auctions items available.....Trips, Furniture, Youth Orchestra ages 10 to 18 perform Holiday Celebrations
Celebrity Memorabilia, art, antiques,and so much Concert....More Details to follow....Save the Date!! For
more.........Save the date to support the Arts & Cultural more infor call Katrina at 203-235-7445.
Center of Meriden.
CT National Speakers Association Speaker
Holiday Tree & Item Display Silent Auction Program
Saturday, November 15, 2008 through Monday, Monday, November 24, 2008 6:00pm to 9:00pm
December 15, 2008 Speaker to be announced

To my beautiful sons: I was born to be your Mommy. You are the loves of
my Life! You are my greatest gifts every day, not just on my birthday. All
my love, Mommy
Page 5 November 2008
Helping Hands Thrift Store Holiday Savings! The pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts
Why spend alot elsewhere when you can get more savings on winter clothing, appliances both large and …nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving. --H. W.
small, electronics, housewares, vhs movies, games, books, gift items, glassware, t.v.s, furniture,toys, jewel- Westermayer
ry, cameras, collectibles, lamps, pictures, shoes, linens, knicknacks and more and help support the Chrysalis
Center for Women and Children which are victims of domestic violence at the same time!
Starting in November we will be placing many new items out for sale to give as gifts for the holidays.
The store is reducing our current inventory with great clearance prices to make room for your Christmas
items which will also include decorations and artificial Christmas trees for sale! Stop in, don't see what you
are looking for just ask as we may have it in storage.
Don't forget every Wednesday you can fill a plastic grocery bag of clothing for only $1.50 with no
limit on how many bags you can fill, this sale does not include outerwear, shoes, suits, gowns or
holiday wear sorry. We also have many name brand clothing everyday offered at our low prices and can be
included in Bag Day..
Need jeans? We have them $1.00 a pr. regular price everyday, baby clothes 25 cents each and up, winter Once you try our
coats (including some real fur coats) $5.00- $25.00! Wallets and purses 50 cents- $3.00 with some famous delicious seafood
name brand purses selling for $20.00! Couches, recliners, bureaus, hutches, bed frames and head boards,
hospital beds, freezers, refrigerators, t.v.s, baby cribs, baby playpens and other furniture all under $70.00 as dishes you will be
well as FREE odd and end furniture as available. hooked for life!
We would like to thank everyone who helped make our Halloween bake sale a success with the proceeds
donated to the Chrysalis Center and for your donations to help keep the store being able to offer great sav- CATERING NOW
ings. With the Holidays approaching donating is a wonderful way of helping others in need and is greatly
appreciated.
AVAILABLE!
The store is in need of a neon open sign if anyone has one for sale or would like to donate it please call the Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11am-9pm
store at (203) 284-0300. Our store hours are Tues, Wed., Fri. and Sat. 9a.m.- 5p.m., Thursday we are open 133 Hanover Street, Meriden 203-630-2928
till 6p.m. Starting November 9th we will be open on Sundays from 10a.m.- 3p.m. until December 21st for
all your Holiday shopping needs!
Watch for our Christmas events with a special contest for children and a special visit from Santa, details
will be announced in December. The store is located at 22 North Turnpike Road in Wallingford and is a
The Passion Play at Oberammergau
proud supporter of the Chrysalis Center. We gladly accept donations at the store or pick ups will be avail-
able again starting Nov. 23rd for furniture, appliances which are in good, clean working condition, sorry we
are not able to accept anymore clothing until further notice. Please call the store if you have any questions
at (203) 284- 0300

AT THE HEART OF IT ALL!!


It is hard to believe that the Holidays are upon us and we are hoping to see you at the Augusta Curtis
Cultural Center (ACCC) located on 175 East Main Street in Meriden this Holiday season. We are hosting
our Annual Augusta Auction, our largest fundraiser of the year, on Saturday, November 15th at 7:30pm.
We could use all the support we can get for this event. If you would like to donate and item or place an ad
in the program give us a call. Most people do not know that we are primarily funded from donations,
memberships, and rentals. The City of Meriden gives us $8800 a year and pays the utilities for the build-
ing, the Center and its board generate all other funding. So as you can understand we need all the support May 18 - 28 , 2010
we can get to continue offering our programs & events. Starting November 15th will be our beautiful This only happens every 10 years, so you must book now to hold a
Holiday Display that anyone can participate in and/or bid on an item through December 15th. Many non- place at this stirring and beautiful production. Fly into Milan - travel
profit agencies participate in this event as a fundraiser for their group. Non-profits decorate trees, wreath, to the Italian Lake District, to Stresa on Lago Maggiore and to
centerpieces that are displayed for a month at the Center. Throughout the month anyone is welcome to Lugano. From there into Switzerland to the alpine town of Zermatt,
view the display and bid on an item. Half the proceeds from the items goes to the non-profit and the other located under the majestic Matterhorn. From there board the spec-
half is a fundraiser for the Center. The Center has so many opportunities to get involved that we hope you tacular Glacier Express for a full day train ride over the top of the
would want to somehow be a part of this magnificent facility. The Holiday Tree Display is open daily from alps to the town of St.Moritz. Travel into Austria to Innsbruck and
Nov. 28th through Dec. 3rd, 11am to 7pm, please call regarding times for all other days. For the first time Salzburg, then onto Bavaria to the city of Munich. The grand finale is
the ACCC will be holding a Holiday arts, crafts, and baked goods fair on Saturday, Nov. 22 from 10am to the village of Oberammergau which hosts this magnificent Passion
3pm. To be a vendor give us a call and tables are $25. Our Augusta Curtis Concert Band will be perform- Play. Book now as seats are limited. You can protect your deposit
ing their Holiday Concert on Monday, Dec. 8th at 7pm, and The Hartt School of Music will be performing with trip cancellation insurance.
on Tuesday, Dec. 9th at 7pm. We are hosting many Holiday Parties for Businesses and non-profits in the 105 Hanover Street in Meriden
area, are you one of them and if not why not consider the Center for your next party or event? Exciting 203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516
news our new Polyvision Tablet, Projector, and DVD/VCR have arrived and are now available for use by Email: ktwinc@aol.com
businesses, classes, and non-profits that rent our facility. This new equipment was made possible by a www.kingtravelways.com
Technology grant from AT&T. The Polyvision Tablet will enable us to provide a new arena for teaching
our arts classes and to enhance any conference or business meeting. Once again, we are here for the com-
munity and have many events coming up over the Holiday Season that we would enjoy having you attend.
You can get our calendar of events at www.curtisculturalcenter.org and our e-mail address is accc@ci.meri-
Many Annuity Owners Lose Money
den.ct.us. If you would like to participate in our Auction or Holiday fair please call Staci at 203-639-2856.
We need the community to keep the ACCC in the heart of it all and our hearts in the arts!
Do you
Make
Local Youth Athletes Seeking Area Assistance
Dear Friends, These
Every year the Wallingford Vikings Football and Cheer works towards helping the youth of Wallingford
and by being a part of the American Youth Football (AYF) league we are compelled to do so. The main
mission of the AYF is a commitment to helping others, community service, and volunteerism - which is the
Mistakes?
foundation of the AYF, the largest football and cheer organization in the country. From the many local vol-
unteers who give selfless hours of their time, to the youth who give back to their community via AYF pro-
I can show
jects, the dedication to enrich the lives of others is our mission. When we see these traits in individuals
who share in our vision, gives cause for us to fight to make it possible for them to succeed and continue to you how
grow. But the fight is only made possible by the generous support of people like you and / or your busi-
ness.
Christopher W. Porter
Porter Financial Strategies
not to.
Every year, the Wallingford Vikings Football and Cheer League have grown stronger. Even with other fall
sports becoming more or just as popular, we continue to grow. We have purchased new uniforms for both Many Annuity owners lose over 50% of their annuity's value
the football and cheer squads in the past and have even sent some of the players onto competitions. With when it pays off. It's true-and I can provide you a booklet
the continued success of our program we hope to continue to help raise these local children by providing a which will show you how you may be able to avoid this mis-
safe harbor to teach leadership, teamwork, trust, and to be their best at something they enjoy; while instill- take entitled,
ing that hard work and determination make your dreams an endless possibility. Due to the increasing costs "Annuity Owner Mistakes"
and the talent that has grown within these children we find ourselves with the possibility of having multiply
squads move onto Regional competitions and possibly National competitions. In the past we were able to The booklet is absolutely free
not have to extend the airfare, hotel, travel expenses to the families but during these times, we fear that this
will not be the case this year. This year, we hope to be able to send any and all squads that qualify for any
and shows you how to
competition to that competition without causing any undue hardships to the families. preserve your annuity.
We're asking you, today, to take a stand and assist us in making these children's dreams come true by mak- To get your complementary copy that could help protect
ing a simple donation. Your donation will help pay for any expenses that any of our squads will incur this your funds, simply call our message service at
year and in the upcoming years. Each individual or business will receive a special thank you, an update
1-800-774-4964 (Toll Free - 24 hours) and leave your
during our competitions, and your name posted on our web site showing that you have helped our worthy
cause up till next season. To send your generous donation, please make checks payable to the Wallingford name and address and the booklet will be mailed to you
Junior Football League (WJFL), PO Box 4173, Wallingford, CT 06492. Should you have any questions immediately.
please feel free to email our Cheer Coordinator at dianewjflcheer@comcast.net.
The Wallingford Vikings Football and Cheer League thanks you for your time and generosity. As a courtesy, we will plan on giving you a call to con-
Sincerely, John Calatayud Diane Chadderton firm your booklet was received. Any questions can be
WJFL President WJFL Cheer Coordinator answered at that time. No selling.
Page 6 November 2008

Enter to win a
$500.00
Prize from
Moran’s
TV & Appliance
just in time for
the Holidays.
There are 3 ways to enter this contest.
1. Fill out this contest form
2. Send in a story/submission
3. Send in a Celebrations Photo Wish.
Find this in 10 ads Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

this issue and be Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Phone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
entered to win! AD #1: __________________AD #2:_________________

AD #3:___________________AD #4:_________________
Fill out the Form completely and send it to:
The People’s Press AD #5:___________________AD #6:_________________
P.O. Box 4459 AD #7: __________________AD #8:_________________
Yalesville, CT 06492
Attention: Holiday Contest AD #9: _________________AD #10:_________________
If your entry is correct you will be entered into our drawing! This is Limit One Entry Per Person Per Issue.. Members of DNA, LLC and Relations are not eligible to play.
a 3 issue contest. You may enter 1x per issue. Deadline for all entries Drawing will be held December 20, 2008. Winner will be notified by phone and agrees to have photo
is December 15, 2008. All subscribers to www.peoplespressnews.com and name published. Winner must pick up prizes from participating businesses.
are automatically entered when making a submission. Sign up today!
Page 7 November 2008

Nature as a Mirror Franciscan Christmas Fair


By Dorothy Gonick The 17th Annual Franciscan Christmas Fair to benefit the programs of
TURKEYS the Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice
Proud strutting turkey Care, will be held Saturday, November 22, 2008, from 9:30 a.m. to
Soon to grace Thanksgiving table 2:30 p.m. at the Franciscan Life Center, 271 Finch Avenue, Meriden,
Feast of brotherly love.
CT 06451. This joy-filled day is designed for the entire family.
Crisp November days bring the symbol for Thanksgiving, since the first Thanksgiving, when the Pilgrims and Indians Crafts for children, Christmas booths of pottery; hand-made items;
shared a feast of turkey and deer with gratefulness for the harvest and the friendship they enjoyed. Thanksgiving con-
hand-decorated wreaths; fresh cut Christmas trees; "Chestnuts
nects us to our beginnings as a nation and through the years as we have grown into a land of plenty. There are numer-
ous instances of the openhearted sharing of our good fortune in this bountiful land. Today we share the feast with Roasting on and Open Fire," and Franciscan breads, jams, pickles and
family, friends, community and those less fortunate, as a way of commemorating the bounty and gratefulness of life's more. There are Christmas carols and a Living Creche. Eight raffle
blessings. During World War II, a tradition of serving our troops with turkey and trimmings on each Thanksgiving prizes including two hand-made quilts and hand-painted furniture.
Day was begun. This gave a sense of unity with those far from home, giving some comfort and connection with the Come, join in the Christmas spirit. Admission is free. For more
families on the home front.
information visit www.flcenter.org or call 203 237-8084.
Benjamin Franklin suggested the humble turkey for our national symbol of democracy, but the Bald Eagle was
chosen because of its majesty, keen eyesight, and protective demeanor as symbolic of our high ideals and defender of
freedom. Yet, the turkey has long been ridiculed as having less admirable traits. It is not an aggressive or cunning Wallingford Junior Woman's Club
bird and, therefore, rather easily caught, which benefited the struggling pilgrims. It is not a great flier, just a rather WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB ANNOUNCES HOLI-
mundane bird that sticks to the task of finding food and caring for its brood of offspring. I became very aware of the DAY SHOPPING FAIR and BEST OF WALLINGFORD BAKE OFF
idiosyncrasies and charm of turkeys we raised on our farm. Their fear of sudden, loud noises often led them into dan-
ger when they ran into fences or piled up in suffocating heaps. Their innate sense of curiosity was a rather charming CONTEST
trait, but also frustrating for us as we tried to keep them penned. There was no shortage of Indian headdress feathers
Start your holiday shopping off right at the Wallingford Junior
for all the young visitors, which led to wild playtime for both boys and girls. The turkey is a useful, beneficial bird; a
real benefactor of mankind who gives its all for our Thanksgiving feast. Woman's Club Holiday Shopping Fair and Best of Wallingford Bake
There are other birds that fill the air with songs and color. They, too, are fulfilling their purpose in being. They Off Contest to be held November 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lyman
consume a myriad of insects and weed seeds while adding cheerfulness to our world. Likewise, we can appreciate and Hall High School, 70 Pond Hill Road, Wallingford. Admission is free.
relish the companions in our lives who journey with us and share our joys and sorrows. God, in His wisdom, did not Several vendors, including Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, Dove
make us carbon copies of one another. We respect the wisdom of our elders and trust their leading, also the "common"
Chocolate, Lia Sophia, Tupperware, and juried crafters will have items
man whose goals are to further the well-being and growth of the community. Yet those who are considered unlearned
often speak true wisdom and must also be acknowledged as worthy. Children's observations quite often surprise us for sale. You'll be sure to find something special for everyone on your
with a depth of truth that may cause us to become more compassionate and thoughtful of others. The hearts and minds gift-giving list.
of all of us have worth regardless of age or station in life. Each of us has our own unique value and place of impor-
tance. In addition, come view the Best of Wallingford Bake Off. Pies and
As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, may our thoughts and prayers be for all mankind, acknowledging
cakes created by adults and cookies created by children under 12 will
our commonalities and the unity that will bring peace and brotherhood to all. We can also pray there will be no more
need to ship turkeys and trimmings overseas to armed forces, that they will no longer be necessary to police any be judged by some of Wallingford's most well-known celebrities. A
nation. decorated cake contest for adults will be decided by your votes!
Coffee, tea, water, and baked goods will be on sale.

AVANTI
Thankful for Animals
Lori Peck, Dedicated Volunteer
First and foremost, I am thankful for my family, friends and the People's Press who let us share our wonderful stories
with all of you. I am also extremely thankful for the unconditional love of animals and how they have helped me
through some difficult times.
I've always been an animal lover, having grown up with dogs, rabbits, fish, turtles and gerbils. When I was
Exceeding your
younger, having animals also meant learning responsibility. Feeding, grooming and cleaning up after them was part of
our everyday routine. Although at times it seemed like a lot of work, in turn we were rewarded with love and affection dining expectations for
from our wonderful pets.
As I've gotten older and raised my own family, animals have been an even bigger part of our lives. We have always less than you expect!
adopted from the Meriden Humane Society or Animal Control, except for the few strays we've taken in, but had never
thought of volunteering before.
It was after a back and neck injury almost three years ago that brought me to the M.H.S. I wasn't getting around
very well, on lots of medicine and started to get depressed. My daughter Chelsea had wanted to start volunteering with
the animals. I took her there one day and we haven't stopped going since. We were escorted to the main cat room,
where we were surrounded by felines of all personalities. I couldn't believe it! So many of them and they were so
happy to just be pet or talked to. I seemed to have forgotten about all my aches and pains, for a little while anyway.
So, I figured while my daughter started volunteering, I would go with her and sit with the cats. I can't guarantee it will
take all your aches and pains away, but it sure makes you feel better when you know that you've helped the animals
feel better.
So, at Thanksgiving I give thanks to all of you who have supported us, volunteered with us and helped to keep our
homeless pets safe and fed. Remember, we can't do it without your support. We are solely run on public donations of
food and money. The next time your shopping, won't you please pick up a few cans of dog/cat food or a bag of Cat
Chow or Pedigree. There are many, many little mouths that would be very thankful for it. As always, thank you so
much to the woman who donates $5.00 a week to us. It all makes a difference! God Bless and hope to see you at the
shelter.
Join Us For A Bite Today!
Serving delicious Southern and Northern Italian
Wallingford Junior Woman's Club BAKE OFF CONTEST Cuisine. Open for Lunch and Dinner with food
WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB IS LOOKING FOR BAKERS FOR BEST OF WALLINGFORD
BAKE OFF CONTEST
available to go! We are now accepting reserva-
Calling all bakers - you are needed for the Wallingford Junior Woman's Club Holiday Shopping Fair and Best of tions for banquets, holiday parties and catering.
Wallingford Bake Off Contest to be held November 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lyman Hall High School, 70 Pond Hill
Road, Wallingford.
There will be three baking contests: cakes and pies created by adults, cookies created by children under 12, and a dec- AVANTI
orated cake contest for adults. A panel of judges of Wallingford celebrities will judge the baking contests, and the Restaurant & Lounge
winner of the decorated cake contest will be decided by popular vote. There is a $5 registration fee for each entry.
34 River Road * South Meriden
203-4
440-9
9990
Winners will receive a Shop-Rite gift certificate, award certificates, and ribbons.
For more information, a registration form, and list of rules, please contact Mimi LaFrance at 284-8544 or
mimi.l@snet.net.

Thanksgiving 8000 We Frame Jerseys, Tickets,


Photos, Cards & More!
Gifts For The Sports Kid In All Of Us! We specialize in helping
Calorie Poem
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Stop In To See Our Selection Of
and your pies take the Sports Memorabilia & N e w Yo r k
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and may your Thanksgiving
dinner
Also Signed Photos, Baseball Merchandise
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An optimist is a person who Final Season Championship
starts a new diet on Merchandise Merchandise
Thanksgiving Day.
--Irv Kupcinet 314 Main St. (Route 150) in Yalesville
203-284-0411
Page 8 November 2008

South Meriden Christmas In The Village MAYOR'S CORNER WALLINGFORD


The 10th annual Christmas In The Village celebration is quickly approaching. On Saturday December 6th
2008 the Village of South Meriden will bring our community together free of charge to celebrate this holi- Dear Resident:
day season. This year look up into the sky just before 2:00pm and you may see Santa flying high in the
sky above South Meriden. A Santa Parade with local marching bands and organizations will start at Along with Thanksgiving and
2:00pm. From the festival's opening parade down Main Street with its two horse drawn carriages and the other pleasurable occasions in
sight of Santa, Rudolph, Frosty and Santa's Elves our 2008 event promises to be the best gathering yet. We November, we experience the
will serve over 1200 baked cinnamon apples, pounds of roasted chestnuts, tons of popcorn and gallons of annual fall of leaves. The crown-
hot chocolate. ing glory of summer becomes the
crinkled brown litter of the fall.
We ask that all in attendance bring at least one canned food item to be donated to the Meriden YMCA. The good news is that the Town
Show your holiday spirit by helping out those in need in your community. Every person that brings a non Public Works Department picks
perishable food donation will be entered into a raffle to win prizes throughout the day. up leaves. For them to assist resi-
dents and dispose of the leaves, it
Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be located at the South Meriden fire house. Also at the fire house is necessary to obey certain rules.
there will be live entertainment, face painting, and hot chocolate. The Meriden Police department will reg- If there were not standardized rules, the Department would never be
ister children and take pictures for the Amber Alert program at the fire house. able to complete the work of leaf pick up given the 240 miles of local
roads and homes.
The Main Street Stage will be filled all day with great entertainment for all ages. Pulaski School Chorus
will perform at 2:30 to start the festivities on stage followed by The Bell Ringers, Sliver City Tree -O, and
Please put leaves in paper yard waste bags and use masking tape to
the Hanover School Chorus will close the stage activities with a procession to Village Park for the tree
seal them. Only leaves should be placed inside the bags. Sticks and
lighting. A student from Hanover School will light the tree while seasonal songs are sung with Mr. & Mrs.
other trash will not allow the successful mulching of the leaves. Our
Claus and the community. While you are in the park enjoy the warmth of the Bon Fire controlled by the
South Meriden Vol. Fire Fighters. effort is based on the goal of recycling the leaves. Please place your
bagged leaves at the curb on November 23rd. Public Works will pick
As you walk down Main Street local businesses will be handing out giveaways. In the heated tent children up the bags starting Monday, November 24th. Bagged leaves can also
can make ornaments and crafts to take home with them. Children games and CLC Petting Zoo will also be be taken to the Compost Center on John Street at no charge.
on Main ST. The Meriden Public Library Bookmobile and the Meriden Police department mobile com-
mand center will be set up for viewing. Flu shots will be available at Data Link. Hanover School and the The leaf pickup is an important part of our effort to comply with State
South Meriden United Trinity Methodist church will have baked goods, crafts, food and children activities. of Connecticut recycling guidelines. Thank you for your cooperation.
New Life Church always does the holiday season proud with special events and goodies to munch on. We look forward to seeing the buds of spring reappear.
Sincerely,
Luminaries will be sold this year by the new South Meriden Lions Club with proceeds to benefit the Food William W. Dickinson, Jr.
Bank of Meriden. You can purchase these bags during the event or before hand at Tom's Place or through Mayor
any South Meriden Lions Club member. As the evening draws near these bags will be lit and placed along
Main Street for all to view.
Celebrations of Life and Home
Our annual House Decorating contest is open to all houses in the greater South Meriden area. Prizes will
be awarded to the top three houses. Houses will be judged on Friday December 5th between 5 - 9pm.
Winners will be announce Saturday around 4:30pm on the Main Street stage. You may register your house
at Tom's Place 203-238-9029 or by calling 203-634-8173 or online at www.southmeridenevents.org you
must register to win. Good luck and have fun.

Volunteers are needed and welcome to help out this growing event. The committee is always looking for
new ideas and help to keep this event growing. On Sunday November 23rd the committee and volunteers
will be hanging 49 Christmas wreaths on the lamp posts down Main Street. These wreaths and the
American Flags for the summer have been purchased and maintained by the Christmas In The Village
committee. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and the funds that are collected from our annual
Lovers in the Village Dance we are able to celebrate this holiday season with our friends, neighbors and
family. Without our wonderful sponsors and volunteers all of this would not be possible. If you would like
to volunteer you may call Shannon at 203-440-2527 or become a sponsor call Ed at 203-235-5653 or visit
our web site at www.southmeridenevents.org
Christmas In The Village Committee

A reminder that during the Holidays, some IS SUMMER REALLY OVER?


Submitted by Carol Andree
things should never be seen together.
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Page 9 November 2008

Wallingford Park and Recreation Special Events Library Expands Baby Educational Toys
Register at our office located at 6 Fairfield Boulevard 203.294.2120 Through the generous donation of "The Friends of the Meriden Public
For more information and a complete listing of programs check us out at www.town.wallingford.ct.us Library" several educational toys have be added to the Children's
Double Feature Friday o Ages 6-11 Library. An activity cube and activity circle table offers various
Movie night just got a whole lot better. Grab your favorite chair, bean bag or pillow and come on down to manipulative panels and sections to challenge and help develop eye-
the Recreation Department on Friday night, 6pm-10pm and hand coordination, logical thinking, visual tracking and perception
enjoy two feature films on the big screen, popcorn, skills. We have also implemented the use of "Look and See Crawl
pizza and drinks. Relax, sit back and enjoy the film. Thru" and "Slide-in and Play Yard" for our baby program "Start On
When: Friday November 7th 6:30pm - 9:30pm Stories". These two new additions help to develop gross motor skills,
Location: Gymnasium Fee: $12 creative play and sensory integration. Our next program for babies
Movies: Happy Feet & T.B.D. will be October 30 at 10:30. Please feel to call the library for m ore
information.
SKI BUMS MT. SOUTHINGTON
Whether you're a skier or a boarder, this is five nights of
fun on the slopes that you do not want to miss. Registration for all Ski Bum programs will begin on
The Chiefs!
Wednesday, October 29th and will end November 14th at the recreation department. Each program will be
limited to 100 participants.
Complete fee schedule is not available as of this printing. Please call the recreation department in
October for a complete listing of program options and fees. Any parent that is interested in becoming a
chaperone should contact Kenny at the recreation department (chaperones taken on first come first serve
basis). Chaperones will have the opportunity to ski/snowboard at no cost. Please note that registration will
only be held for two weeks during the dates provided above.
Program breakdown:
4th & 5th grades Wednesdays 4pm-8pm
6th, 7th & 8th grades Wednesdays 4pm-8pm
9th & 10th grades Wednesdays 4pm-8pm

9 and A Chicken
This year's hunt will be one for the ages. Participants will be required to go to the Recreation Department
to pick up a packet of CERTIFIED clues. (We want to make sure that all participants start from the
Recreation Department so everyone has a fair shot) These clues will lead you to 9 cardboard turkeys and
the bonus chicken. All cardboard turkeys and chicken will be hidden on Wallingford town property. The
object is to locate a turkey and return it to the Parks and Recreation for the gift certificate.
Awards: To be awarded to the first three families. Old Timers Night at the South Meriden Vol. Fire Department featuring
Clues must be handed in at time of redemption. Chiefs Front row: Lee Stevens 51-56, Jack Haines 63-70, Back Row: Bill
When: Friday November 14, 2008 Coutermash 71-77, Jim Cournoyer 98-07, Keith Gordon 08-on.
Time: 7:00p.m. Where: Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department Fee: Free

WEIGHT NO MORE!
4168.400 11th Annual Shoot for Success Pre-Season Basketball Tune Up
Learn the mechanics and techniques required for basketball and take yourself to the next level! Clinic
includes: form & drill, defensive techniques, contests and games. Clinic is for Boys and Girls grades 2 -
9.Friday and Saturday Nov. 28 and 29 2 days 9:00am-12:00pm All Natural Affordable Nutrition
Fee: $50 (includes clinic t-shirt) FAST, EASY WEIGHT LOSS
Instructor: Joe Gaetano and Greg Morrone and Hoop Mountain Basketball Staff
DOCTOR FORMULATED
NEW PROGRAMS AT THE WALLINGFORD PARKS AND REC. THIS FALL INDIVIDUALLY MENTORED
Investment Strategies in Uncertain Times CUSTOM PROGRAMS
This presentation will explain the keys to "Investment Success" during market fluctuations and uncertainty. 1-888-493-1069
Learn how to take advantage of the markets ups and downs through dollar cost average. You will also
Kathy Carroll - Herbalife Independent Distributor
learn ideas on how to manage your personal finances in times of rapidly rising costs.
When: Monday December 1st for one night 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Fee: Free Location: Exit 4.5
Instructor: Laura Palumbo, CFP and C. Gary Drake

2022.400 Simple Strategies for Creating Balance in Your Life


We're living in an increasingly chaotic and stressful time. As we are more stressed and anxious, our health
is compromised and we are less able to cope with everyday activities. We're at our best when we are calm
and relaxed. You can learn simple ways to cope with stress and feel more control over your life in this one
night seminar. Join Karen Caplan to learn the four simple techniques to rewire your thinking and respond to
stress more effectively.
When: Tuesday November 18th 6:30pm - 8:30pm One Night
Fee: $20 Location: Exit 3
Instructor: Karen Caplan, MSW (LCSW), Certified Professional Empowerment Coach (CPEC), and Oasis
in the Overwhelm Trainer

2046.400 Buying An Investment Property or Second Home


How much money do you need to buy that 2nd home or investment property? Will the rents pay the mort-
gage on a multifamily? Is a fixer upper a good investment? Will owning a second home or investing prop-
erty increase my income and help towards my retirement? What are the pitfalls? These questions and many
more will be answered in this informative one night workshop on what to expect in buying a second home
or investment property.
Fee: It's Free Tuesday November 11th 7:00pm - 9:00pm One Night
Location: Exit 3
Staff: Representatives from Dan Combs Real Estate and Cambell Mortgage

Festival of Silver Lights Lighting Ceremony


Hubbard Parks Official Holiday Lighting will take place Tuesday November 25 - 6:00 PM

CELEBRATING THE POLISH COMMUNITY IN MERIDEN


The Meriden Public Library will be celebrating the Polish culture and community in Meriden as we partici-
pate in the World of Words program in May 2009. The purpose of the program is to learn about our com-
munity's cultural roots and explore our ethnic similarities and differences. Residents who would like to par-
November 25, 2008. All will appear in our Holiday Magic Issue!
ticipate in the activities or have ideas for activities are invited to a meeting at the Library in the Griffin
Room on Friday, November 14 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. Please contact the Community Services Department
at 630-6349 if you would like to participate but are unable to make the meeting.

Who does not thank for little will not thank for much. - Estonian proverb
Page 10 November 2008

"Only One of Ten" Recognizing Meriden's Own an elite group of young Americans who have made a positive difference in the lives of
others.

As both Mayor of the City of Meiden and now Principal of Cromwell High School,
Mark Benigni, 36 has blended the two biggest interests in his life: education and govern-
ment. He has used his influence in both of his offices to institute creative new policies
and programs.

As Assistant Principal, Benigni helped launch a mentoring program, in-school suspen-


sion program, and work-study initiatives. As Mayor, Benigni created a Mayor's Youth
Summit, established the "Mayor's Corner," (a local television program) and created a
"Councilor for a Night" program where children participated in mock council meetings.
These programs aimed to help children and young adults appreciate local politics and
news. He also led the charge to make Meiden the first community in the state to pass a
resolution supporting healthcare for all. Additionally Benigni has instituted three cre-
ative policing programs: The Crime Suppression Unit, Neighborhood Initiatives and the
School Resource Officers. Each of these programs helps to reduce crime and efficiently
distribute police officers.

The TOYA selection process begins in the spring of each year. Following the submis-
sion deadline, all nominations are forwarded to a panel of screening judges who, work-
ing independently, select and rank their top twenty choices. From here the finalists are
submitted to another panel of judges who decide the final winners-an arduous process.

The awards night was spectacular. All winners were introduced by a three minute video
who each followed with a five minute speech to the 350 people in attendance. Benigni's
speech focused on the "real joys of life," highlighted by this quote;

"As a young American, this is what I have come to know; where there is great need,
there is considerable opportunity; when there are difficult challenges, we find abundant
resources; where there is sometimes "great want," there is always consistent loving sup-
port. And thank God, we live in a country where we are free…..to make independent
choices, where enthusiastic effort is encouraged, and where achievement is recognized
and celebrated."

Mark proudly represented the city of Meiden, the state of CT, and all of New England.
Recently, Mark Benigni was named one of the nation's Top Ten Outstanding Young
He was one of only ten across this whole great nation to be so honored. We too are
Americans (TOYA Award) by the Junior Chamber of Commerce, at a black-tie affair in
proud of his accomplishment and extend an entire region's worth of congratulations!
San Diego, California. The recipient class of 2008, includes scientists, medical doctors,
military personnel, Miss America, and other talented adults, all under the age of forty.
To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The
Erin Gruwell, the author of the national best seller, Freedom Writers, was also a 2008 People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@ people-
TOYA award winner. This prestigious honor has been given out every year since 1938. spressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you
Past TOYA award winners includes; Presidents Kennedy, Clinton and Ford, Vice will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its
Presidents Cheney and Gore, and music legend Elvis Pressley. Our former mayor joins many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com!
Page 11 November 2008

"Sheltering an Animal's Perspective" "This is Heaven, sir", the man answered.


by Gregory M. Simpson "Wow! Would you happen to have some water?" the man asked.
"Of course, sir. Come right in, and I'll have some ice water brought right up."
I am at the stage in life where I read obituaries. Was it Mark Twain who said that he was The man gestured, and the gate began to open.
just checking to make sure that his name was not there? "Can my friend", gesturing toward his dog, "come in, too?" the traveler asked.
"I'm sorry, sir, but we don't accept pets."
One learns a great deal from reading obituaries, most notably how rich a life can be The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way
whether one lives to be 13, 33, or 103. he had been going with his dog.
After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road lead-
The loved ones left behind are sad, of course, including the companion animals. Many ing through a farm gate that looked as if it never closed. There was no fence.
obituaries show just how loved and cherished a member of the family a companion ani- As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a
mal can be. In some cases, one can inadvertently sacrifice his or her own life while try- book.
ing to save a companion animal. "Excuse me!" he called to the man. "Do you have any water?"
"Yeah, sure, there's a pump over there, come on in."
Recently an obituary described a 42-year-old woman who died off a California beach "How about my friend here?" the traveler gestured to the dog.
attempting to rescue her beloved old dog who was swept away by extreme surf. "There should be a bowl by the pump," the man offered.
Donations in her memory were for two charities, one of which was a dog rescue group, They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump
undoubtedly in honor of her dog and the love she had for him. with a bowl beside it.
The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, and then he gave some
In a memorial to note the anniversary of the death of one man, another inscription read, to the dog.
"We can't believe it's been one year since we lost you. It still feels like yesterday, we When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by
miss you so much. Your 20 feline babies are fine and really miss you also, but show us the tree.
in many ways, your love and presence. You will be in our hearts forever." "What do you call this place?" the traveler asked.
"This is Heaven," he answered.
The above two memorials reflect what the French writer, Colette, had in mind when she "Well, that's confusing," the traveler said. "The man down the road said that was
wrote, "Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet." For as Anatole France Heaven, too."
wrote, "Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened." "Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's hell."
"Doesn't it make you mad that they use your name like that?"
Echoing those sentiments, here is a tale that came by e-mail with author unknown: "No, we're just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends
behind."
A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when
it suddenly occurred to him that he had died. For the animals,
Gregory M. Simpson
He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He
wondered where the road was leading them. Gregory Simpson's animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided
leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advi-
After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked sor to the national Friends of Animals. Currently a Board member of Protectors of
like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the Animals, Inc., he was chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers
sunlight. in the U.S. He is also a member of the Cat Writers' Association.

When he was standing before it he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The
mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@people-
spressnews.com. Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you
walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side.
will sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the paper in its
When he was close enough, he called out, "Excuse me, where are we?" many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com!

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Wallingford, CT 06492 •
Page 12 Novemberr 2008 Nobody is stronger, nobody is weaker than someone who came back.
MAYOR'S CORNER MERIDEN There is nothing you can do to such a person because whatever you
Lots of positive things are happening in the could do is less than what has already been done to him. We have
Meriden Community. We just hosted the Mayor's already paid the price. - Elie Wiesel
6th Annual Cleanup day with over 300 helpers and
lots of smiles and enthusiasm while cleaning up our What You Need To Know!
city's streets. It was very heartening to see so many
eager volunteers showing pride in their community.
After the cleanup, the city hosted a picnic in
Hubbard Park to thank all our volunteers. Over 300
hot dogs were distributed. A job well done! Kudos
to Mayor's office staffer, Jackie Fordiani, ajnd the
cleanup committee for their excellent organization
and coordination for this successful day.

Our Meriden Soup kitchen, generously hosted by


St. John's First Baptist Church on Broad St. is a
marvel to see in operation. Volunteers from seven
Meriden faith communities, come together every
weekday to prepare and serve over 150 meals a day
to needy residents. The numbers are growing and
we are seeing more working families coming for CHESHIRE GARDEN CLUB TO HOST HOLIDAY LUNCHEON
meals. One volunteer recounted the story of a man The Holiday Season is rapidly approaching. One of New England’s
who approached her after his meal and said that he had visited soup kitchens all over the country and this favorite and leading professional floral designers from the Boston area,
was the best meal he has had. This story made her day! Hats off to the wonderful volunteers who make Tony Todesco, will be the featured program speaker at the Cheshire Garden
this possible. Club’s Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, December 2, 2008 at Aqua Turf.
His refreshing program of “Home Decorations for the Holidays” will pro-
Another awesome volunteer effort is the BABES of Meriden (Beginning Awareness Basic Education vide many ideas for us to incorporate into our own homes for this season.
Studies) sponsored by the Meriden/Wallingford Substance Abuse Council. The BABES program teaches Reservations for $35. per person may be made with Tony Fay, 518 Woodhill
positive life skills using puppets to 1st and 2nd graders in Meriden's public and parochial schools. The Road, Cheshire, CT 06410, phone (203) 272-4173. Luncheon choices are
puppet shows are interactive with the children and address issues of bullying, self esteem, self image, deci- baked salmon, Chicken a la Kathryn, NY strip steak and vegetable lasagna.
sion making, peer pressure, and alcohol and drug abuse. The seven BABES volunteers (five of whom are Doors open at 9:30 am. You can shop at the Boutique, where a large vari-
Meriden Kiwanis Club member), show up at schools on Monday mornings from September to June to per- ety of crafts are on sale including fresh green wreaths, swags and table top
form the puppet shows. The kids thoroughly enjoy the BABES and their puppets and they gain valuable arrangements; also, cement planters and decorated leaves, diverse holiday
life skills in a fun environment. What a way to have a positive impact on our future! BABES, you rock! gift items and the always popular gourmet and baked goods items.
Try your luck at the general raffle to win a most exquisite quilt and other
With Thanksgiving approaching, we do well to take stock of our blessings and to reach out to others with a gorgeous gift items. Order your tickets soon. First come, first serve.
helping hand. We are so fortunate to have community volunteers like those I have touched upon who give Proceeds from this annual fundraiser will be applied toward scholarships
of themselves to enrich Meriden in countless ways. I thank each and every one of you and have a happy and civic and youth projects.
Thanksgiving.
Michael S. Rohde - Mayor of Meriden

Auxiliary Holiday Craft Bazaar MidState Medical Center A Piece Of History.


Horwitz Conference Rooms Saturday, November 22, 20089 a.m. - 4 p.m. All items handmade by employ-
ees and volunteers: jewelry, purses, scarves, belts, lotions, accessories for the home.
Twenty percent of all sales will benefit the MidState Auxiliary, which supports the hospital through vol-
unteering and fundraising activities.

What we're really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth
Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it
Thanksgiving? --Erma Bombeck

Your Eyes Matter To Us!

The 15th annual Meriden Christmas Ornament is now available at the


Meriden Public Library’s information desk.
Every year since 1994 the Local History Department of the Meriden
Public Library has designed a pewter ornament featuring an historic build-
ing or landmark. They have become quite popular and people are always
curious about what will be on the next ornament. The proceeds enable the
library’s local history room to purchase preservation materials such as acid-

Wallingford Optical
free cases and folders, books and genealogy periodicals. This year’s orna-
ment is obtainable for a donation of $8.00. Ornaments from prior years are
$10.00.
The 2008 ornament depicts the old Central Tavern which once stood on
the northwest corner of Broad and East Main Streets. In the early 1700s the
Diane Mintich building was erected as a farmhouse on land originally granted to William
Jones. In 1739 Rev. Theophilus Hall purchased the farm. The next owner
Licensed Optician, was Dr. Insign Hough, who by 1782 had converted the house into an inn
A.B.O. & N.C.L.E. known first as Hough’s Tavern, and later as the Central Tavern or Hotel. His
son, Dr. Isaac I. Hough, continued both his medical practice and the running
Certified of the hotel. The hotel was a stopping point for stagecoaches. Isaac Hough
became well-known throughout Connecticut, both for his hospitality and
James Comeau his corpulent figure. A verse described him:
“Dr. Hough, he keeps good stuff,
Licensed Optician, And lives just under the steeple;
A.B.O. & N.C.L.E. By hook or by crook,
he keeps his good looks
Certified And takes the cash from the people.”

Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends & customers


In 1826 Partrick Lewis bought the tavern and opened a store there. After
the railroad made stage travel obsolete, the center of town moved to the
west. The tavern went into gradual decline and was razed about 1890. Other
Eye exams provided by an Independent Doctor of Optometry fine houses that stood on the spot were also demolished. By the 1990s a gas-
(203) 265-1541 58 Center St., Wallingford station had been built. Now there is only a commemorative monument on
the empty lot.
wallingfordoptical.com
Page 13 November 2008

MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS' CENTER What You Need To Know!
NEWS AND EVENTS
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens' Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership
is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM by presenting a driver's
license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon enti-
tling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is
offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
The Senior Center will sponsor a free seven week Creative Writing Class starting on Wednesday, November 5 at 1:00
PM. Susan Sandel, Ph.D. will again lead the group in weekly sessions designed to help you put your thoughts and
ideas on paper and express yourself effectively using the written word. No prior writing experience necessary, for those
who do write the class will provide tips for becoming more spontaneous. Classes will be held in the first floor meeting
room at the Senior Center from Wednesday, November 5 to Wednesday, December 17 from 1:00 to 2:15 PM. People
interested in taking this Creative Writing Class are asked to sign-up in the Senior Center Office or by calling 237-0066. Wallingford Land Trust 2009 Calendars
A special Veterans Day Salute will be held in Willene's Place on Monday, November 10 at 11:00 AM. Our own The Wallingford Land Trust has available 2009 calendars featuring pictures
Meriden Antique Veterans, World Post #1, will appear in uniform for a Flag Ceremony and then join us all for lunch in from the various Land Trust properties, including scenes, wildlife, wild-
honor of Veterans Day. Please plan to attend as we recognize the Meriden Antique Veterans! flowers. To purchase your calendar please contact the WLT through the PO
A Financial Consultant from Johnson Brunetti will hold a Financial Planning Seminar here on Wednesday, November Box 611. The new calendars are $15.00. For more information, please call
12 at 10:30 AM. He will speak in the first floor meeting room covering such topics as the seven tips you need to know President David Ellis at 269-9779. Picture by Mary Heffernon, board mem-
for a secure retirement, avoiding unnecessary taxes and protecting your retirement income. This no cost or obligation
ber of fungi on tree
seminar will be an opportunity to get a free financial tune-up to double check your retirement income situation. The
program is open to the public and interested people are asked to sign-up at the Senior Center or by calling 237-0066.
The program will be informative and in only 30-40 minutes people can learn some helpful and valuable retirement tips!
On Wednesday, November 12 at 11:15 AM Jessica Sirella from the Agency on Aging will speak before lunch in

LEY EAT
D ERY
Willene's Place about the Home Share Program. This program offers a practical housing alternative for compatible peo-

BRA
ple who choose to share a residence based on common needs, interests and preferences. Homeowners receive extra
income, security and possible assistance with chores and housing seekers get a reasonable rent in a homelike environ-
ment. To learn more plan to attend this program!
The Senior Center has again received funding from the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut to provide
medical transportation services for Meriden residents aged 60 and over to their in-town medical appointments. The ser-
vice is provided by the Senior Center Mini-Bus and appointments must be scheduled several days in advance by calling
237-3338. The grant also covers out-of-town rides, which are provided by the Wallingford -Meriden Branch of the
American Red Cross. To schedule the out-of-town rides, call the Red Cross at least one week in advance at 265-6721.
For further information on transportation to your medical appointments, please see Transportation Coordinator Becky
Racine in her office at the Senior Center or give her a call at 237-3338.
cooking
On November 19 at 11:15 Jeff Sederquist, physical therapist, will speak before lunch in Willene's Place about
"Arthritis and the Benefits of Exercise". He is an educational speaker for the Arthritis Foundation and his presentation
Open for:
here is sponsored by Westfield Care & Rehab Center in Meriden. Breakfast
The Thanksgiving Special Luncheon in our Senior Community Café will be held on Thursday, November 20. The
menu will feature roast turkey with gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mixed vegetables, whole wheat dinner roll and
Lunch
pumpkin pie with topping for dessert. Musical entertainment will be provided by Eric Buggie, keyboardist, guitarist, And Dinner
singer and songwriter starting at 10:30. Please sign-up for the special Thanksgiving luncheon at the Senior Center or by
calling 235-8052 one week in advance.
There are still several openings for the trip on Friday, November 21 at 10:00 to the Department of Motor Vehicles in
Wethersfield for people who are interested in obtaining a Non-Drivers License Photo ID. The cost of the ID card is $15
and you must bring a certified birth certificate or valid passport plus one additional form of identification like a Social
Security card. Triad members Sgt. Darrin McKay and Sgt. Glen Milslagle will accompany the mini-bus and provide
assistance at the DMV. For further information or to sign-up contact the Mini-Bus Office at 237-3338.
The Meriden Health Department administered more than 200 flu shots at the Senior Center at a Flu Shot Clinic in
October. Plenty of vaccine still remains at this time and the staff at the Health Department encourages local citizens to
call 630-4234 to schedule an appointment for this important annual inoculation. The $30 cost is covered by Medicare
and certain Medicare managed care plans or payable by cash at the time of the flu shot. For further information contact
the Meriden Health Department at 630-4234. 376 West Main Street in Meriden
The 2008 Senior Center Holiday Fair and Bake Sale will be on Wednesday, December 10 from 10:00 AM to 1:00
PM. Handmade items will be sold by the Knitting and Ceramic classes and bake sales and raffles will also be held. 203-634-3679
Senior Center members willing to bake for the Bake Sale are asked to sign-up in the main office - we appreciate your
help! All proceeds will benefit the Meriden Senior Citizens' Award Scholarship.
For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter $2.00 Off $4.00 Off
available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director Any Single Any Double
With This Coupon at The Bradley Eatery With This Coupon at The Bradley Eatery
MARK YOUR CALENDAR TODAY! Expires 11/30/08 Expires 11/30/08

Then, put us on the top of your list of fairs to visit on Saturday, Nov. 22nd!
The Ladies of St. Anne annual Holiday Fair is on Saturday, Nov. 22nd (9AM - 3PM) and Sunday, Nov. 23rd (8:30 -
10:30AM) at St. Laurent Church, 121 Camp St., Meriden, CT. Coffee & donuts available for purchase at our Candy Order Your Holiday Pies Now!
Cane Café. Come on Saturday to get the best selection of cookies at our ever-popular Cookie Walk. (Purchase our dec-
orated coffee can and then you choose from a variety of cookies baked by our members to fill it!) Browse the St.
Anne's Pantry and Attic tables where you can purchase homemade green tomato relish, cranberry relish, jigsaw puzzles,
holiday ornaments, hand-sewn gifts and much more. We also sell holiday decorated cemetery boxes and artificial
Christmas wreaths. Check out the craft, jewelry and white elephant tables and take chances to win a theme gift basket
at the tea-cup auction. (Winners will be drawn on Sunday morning after the 9:00 AM Mass.) By then you'll have
worked up an appetite, so stay for lunch at the Candy Cane Café - lunch offered Saturday only. The menu includes
homemade soups and sandwiches, hotdogs and a slice of our traditional French-Canadian Meat Pie. (Order forms for
whole meat pies - for pick up in December - will be available at the Candy Cane Café.)
Plenty of off-street parking in the back of the church - Just follow the signs!

Public Invited to Participate in


'How Schools Work' Workshop Wednesday, November 12
For taxpayers and parents of children in the Meriden school system, how schools work can sometimes be a mystery.
Who makes the decisions that influence school spending? What do our local budget-setters consider in creating the city
& school budget? What role can parents play with key decision makers in support of their child's school experience?
What impact will the economy have on funding for Meriden schools?
Answers to these and other questions will be discussed at a special workshop on Wednesday, November 12, 6:00
p.m. at the Board of Education (22 Liberty Street, 3rd Floor). No one makes them like
Special guests include: Marianna’s with Mama’s Secret Recipes!!!
Mayor Mike Rohde
City Manager Larry Kendzior Pumpkin Apple Blueberry
City Councilors David Salafia, George McGoldrick, Hilda Santiago, Brian Daniels and Dante' Bartolomeo Cherry Pineapple Chocolate Cream
Board of Education President Mark Hughes and member Tom Bruenn
Childcare available upon request. To reserve a spot call David at Children First, 630-3566, by November 10. Banana Cream Mince Cranberry Nut
This workshop is sponsored by the Family Resource Centers, Children First, the Meriden Federation of Teachers, the Lemon Meringue Key Lime
Meriden-Wallingford NAACP and the City-Wide PTO.
Also Dinner Rolls, Hard Rolls, and Breads.
Strength for the Latina's Support Group Open Thanksgiving Day 7am-1pm!
Women and Families Center Sexual Assault Crisis Service provides short term supportive counseling services to resi-
dents of Meriden, Wallingford and Cheshire, Middlesex County and Greater New Haven County. A Sexual Assault
Survivor Support Group for Latina Women will be held early November 2008 in the Meriden area. Survivors, who
attend and participate in these groups, will have the opportunity to talk and express their experiences with peers and
knowledgeable, caring facilitators to assist their healing. You don't have to go through this alone! Call Melissa @ (203)
235-9297 ext. 114 to register and for more information. All services are free and confidential.
Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of
our thanksgiving. --WT Purkiser Hours: Mon-Tues.- 7-6; Saturday 7-4; Sun. 7-2

We give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way. - ritual chant
Page 14 November 2008

Send to:

The Kids Press!


Send in a Story! The People’s Press
Send in a Picture! Kids Press P.O. Box 4459
Send in a Poem! Yalesville CT 06492
Send in a Drawing! sierra@peoplespressnews.com

Hey Kids! Don’t for-


Kids Coloring Contest get to send a holiday
wish to someone you
Send in yours for your chance to win a great love for our next issue!

book collection from Storey Publishing! Is Proud to Sponsor


The Kids Press

Name:________________________________ Address_____________________________________Age:______
The deadline for entries is Nov. 28th. Please be aware that this is a random drawing. We believe that as long as you
try you are a winner and that you have a chance to win.
Send your entry to:
The People’s Press
P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 11/30/08 11/30/08 11/30/08
Page 15 November 2008

A NEW TRADITION...... IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY LOVING DAD


Robert "Bob"Davis
by Ernie Larsen
November 30, 194- to October 21, 2005
Every year my wife and I host our family's Thanksgiving dinner. We don't have any special traditions as such; except
The Gift
for the family gathering together which is tradition itself, always good to see each other and reminisce. For the holiday
Eyes fearful, paws worn
meal we look forward to everyone's contribution of a different food item to complement the traditional turkey, stuffing,
A sorrowful sight
potatoes, vegetables etc. And speaking of tradition, this year I may skip the creamed onions and am thinking of roasted
So forlorn
Brussels sprouts, possibly just as not popular as the onions, but hey, if they can't take a joke, oh well. I've also thought
Love they said would be the cure
of doing a home made bread selection. But from now until Thanksgiving Day, I'll be changing my contribution to the
For the suffering
menu a few times and as they say, time will tell.
You had endured
While thinking about traditions, I reckoned a new one might be in order; I put on my thinking cap and came up with
Slowly, gently the bond it grew
the idea to have everyone bring recent photos they had taken during the year and maybe some classics from the past -
Faithful, loyal
usually these end up in albums, more likely just in the envelopes they came in from the processing lab. And sadly, no
Loving, true
one really gets to see photos others have recently taken. I know this year - owing to our sons wedding - there are a lot
Looking back it's so un-clear
more photos to be shared so it is a good time year to start what hopefully will become something that the family will
How we get by
look forward to in the future. A new tradition for sure, I'm looking forward to the holiday.
Without you here
Now, getting back to the food of the aspect of the holiday - my granddaughter and I have a little scenario that we
Trusted companion
play out when we do some baking/cooking together. She actually coined the two of us 'Big Chef and Little Chef"; this
Devoted father, grandfather and friend
year I told her that we will make a special dessert for Thanksgiving. She is pretty adept in the kitchen and already has
You give and give
attended two cooking seminars and her mother being a 'foodie' herself has given Riley a good grasp of kitchen basics;
It never ends
all this and she is all of five and a half years old.
They said we're a gift to you
This year we are going to prepare what I call Rustic Apple Pie; it is a variation of a recipe I saved from a KRAFT®
But now we know
Food & Family magazine. There are a minimal amount of ingredients, six to be exact; making it a very simple recipe
Who rescued who
to organize. Great for children, they can do most of the prep work.
We miss you so very much. You're always in our hearts, you're with us
Rustic Apple Tart
always and forever. You were the greatest Dad, Grandfather (PAPA), husband
Ingredients
and friend to all. Keep your handsome and loving smile always so we know
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, sliced (3 cups or so)
you're shining down on us to be with us always. Love your favorite daughter,
1 Tbs flour
Kim
½ cup sugar, more or less to taste
1 Tbs cinnamon
1 9" refrigerated pie crust, half of a package
CHORALE CONNECTICUT FUNDRAISER
Join Chorale Connecticut on Friday, November 21st, at the Augusta Curtis
4 oz cream cheese, ½ of a brick - softened to room temperature
Cultural Center on East Main Street in Meriden from 7-9 PM for "CABER-
Method
NET & CABARET," an evening of wine-tasting, hors d'oeuvres and some
Preheat oven to 450F
very special entertainment to be provided by Chorale members. Come and
1. Place pie crust in 9" pie plate and spread the softened cream cheese in a 6" circle on the crust.
support the Chorale and enjoy an evening of wine and song!
2. Mix apples with sugar, cinnamon and flour
Tickets may be obtained from Chorale members or at the door. Suggested
3. Pour apples onto crust, mound up
donation is $25.00 per person. For more information, call (203)237-5684.
4. Pull up crust around and over the apples, center will not be covered by crust
5. Bake @450F for 30 minutes, for the last 10 minutes cover with a sheet of foil to avoid burning crust
6. Let cool on wire rack for 30 minutes, serve warm with ice cream or in the traditional New England style with a Celebrations of Life and Home
wedge of sharp cheddar cheese!
Enjoy! And please let your children help in the kitchen it's lots of fun and may become a tradition itself, you never
know.

WALLINGFORD JUNIOR WOMAN'S CLUB IS LOOKING FOR VEN-


DORS FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPING FAIR
Vendors are needed for the Wallingford Junior Woman's Club Holiday Shopping Fair and Best of Wallingford Bake Off
Contest to be held November 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lyman Hall High School, 70 Pond Hill Road, Wallingford.
Vendors and juried crafters are welcome to participate. A space with a table is $30. There are a limited number of
spaces with electricity available for $40. A donation of an item valued at $30 is required from all participants.
For more information and a registration form, please contact Kathryn Speeg at 284-5826 or kathryn@sweetpeapic.com.

Total Cholesterol Screening


Do you know what your cholesterol numbers is? If not, the Meriden Health Department will be holding total choles-
terol screenings on November 6, 2008, from 9:00-11:30am, and November 17, from 1:00-3:00pm. Screenings are held Israel Putnam Elementary School's Girl Scout Troop 66070 of Meriden
at 165 Miller Street. The cost is $10.00 (cash only), and includes the screening and cholesterol tracking card. Call 630- went to see the premier of High School Musical 3! After working hard at
4234 to make your appointment. school all day, they met at Wallingford Holiday Cinema 10 for pizza, pop-
corn and fun followed by the movie. They enjoyed the film and the time
together with their friends. Girl Scouting is a lot of fun!
CRAFT FAIR
The Fatima Women's Club will be sponsoring a CRAFT FAIR on Saturday, November 8, at our Lady of Fatima
Church, 382 Hope Hill Road in Yalesville, from 9:00am to 3:00pm in the Parish Hall. Over 20 tables of crafters, ven-
dors, bake sale, kid's table and kitchen open for lunch purchases. Parish Hall is handicapped accessible.

God gave us our relatives; thank God we can choose our friends. Handcrafted
- Ethel Watts Mumford
Holiday Craft Fair
We are proud to be celebrating
our 104th year in the fruit
Sunday, Nov. 23rd from 9am-3pm
growing business! 1904-22008 Handcrafted Treasures such as
Find out why by stopping by! Candles, Jewelry, Stunning
Now in the Store Photos, Wooden Keepsakes,
Blue Hills Orchard Pears
would like to Bosc
Paintings, Dried Floral
thank your for Apples Creations, Belts & Accessories
allowing us to Gala
McIntosh AND SO MUCH MORE! This
serve your needs
this year. The Cortland is an event not to be missed!
Honeycrisp
Country Store will Macoun
be closing for the
30% OFF Stormy Mountain
Opalescent
Honeycrisp and season on Sun. Empire Candles In Stock!
Macoun Apples Nov. 23rd! Happy Red Delicious Refreshments will be served! Enter our
are here! Thanksgiving! Mutsu
Cameo Drawing to benefit the Ct Food Bank.
Remember Also Fuji Event will take place at
Frozen Pies, Jams,
PIES
Granny Smith
Pickles, Jellies,
Local Honey and
for the Holidays! New Hours Maple Syrup. Taste
Fri, Sat from 10-5
We have the best. Sunday from 11-4 the difference!
438 Broad Street in Meriden
141 Blue Hills Rd., Wallingford 2 Country blocks west of the Oakdale Theater (203) 269-3189 203.235.3166 www.jhhair.com
Page 16 November 2008

Cold Weather Safety for Seniors THANKFUL


By Carol Carbutti
Submitted by Carol Carbutti - Comfort Keepers of Wallingford Thankful and happy for the wonders in life that have come my way
As an insider subjectively looking at my picture, I see success
Not all seniors are lucky enough to spend their long cold winters in sunny locals such as Florida or Successful in marriage, co-habitating with my mate for 43 years
Arizona. If you're part of the group who is spending this winter at home, and home is in an area that's prone Successful in bringing up four wonderful, productive and loving sons
to harsh winters, you might find that getting through the cold is a bit more challenging than it used to be. If Successful in relating to my beautiful grandchildren who live near me
so, then you'll appreciate these tips for staying happy and healthy until the first flowers of spring emerge. Successful in a career of education and advocacy for children
Safety First Successful in pursuing knowledge and implementing what I learn
Independent living doesn't mean that you have to "go at it alone" so don't be afraid to ask children, relatives Successful in deciding to take control of my health through difficult
and neighbors for help. Most will be more than willing to lend a hand and you should arrange for someone surgery
to look in on you often. Successful in finding and developing a new avocation in my senior
If you find that lifting bags of salt or shovelfuls of snow is something you're struggling with, don't years
attempt it. Keeping your sidewalks free of snow and ice is hard work and can be dangerous. If you can't Successful in persistent planning of good times and promoting them
find anyone who can help, make sure to take your time on these tasks to avoid overexerting your heart. Successful in recognizing and spreading my good fortune
Or hire someone. Start asking neighborhood teen-agers if they're looking to make some extra money and Successful in living the life of a cockeyed optimist
you'll likely find a few takers. If not, look in the classified sections of local papers and on bulletin boards Who will always search for the good that will come out of the bad
around town for the names of people you can hire. Or consider a home companion.
Keeping warm Meriden's Project Graduation Needs Your Help!
By now you're probably well aware that dressing in layers offers protection from the harsh climate. Just be Parents and guardians of all Platt, Maloney, and Wilcox students
sure to cover all exposed skin including the head, face, earlobes, hands and feet, to limit your time out- are invited to share their thoughts and ideas for upcoming Project
doors, and to keep dry. Water repellant outer layers and boots will help. . Graduation meetings. Project Graduation is the all-night drug and
Even better would be to stay inside all winter long. But that's neither practical nor healthy. When inside, alcohol free party held for over 600 Meriden graduates each year in
take extra care when using fireplaces, wood stoves, candles, and space heaters as they can cause fires and June. It is never too early to start planning this safe event for our
fill interiors with smoke or carbon monoxide. It's a good idea to place fresh batteries in smoke and carbon graduates. Community and parent support is key for its success.
monoxide detectors at the onset of cold weather. If you are artsy, a great organizer, or just like to volunteer some
You can conserve interior heat by keeping windows and doors to rooms you aren't using closed. You can time, please attend our next meeting on Wednesday, November 5, at
also cover windows with draperies, place towels along cracks at bottom of doors. And always have plenty 7:00pm at Platt High School. Please join us whether you are from
of dry wood inside in case you can't get out. Maloney, Platt, or Wilcox. There will be no meeting in December;
Eating Right January 7, 2009 at Maloney is the first one for 2009. If you have any
It's tempting to load up on high-carb foods, but with a bit of planning and effort, you can keep eating right questions, please contact Ray Moncevicius at 235-4256 or Ginnie
throughout winter. Vegetable-laden stews and soups made with reduced sodium broths and warm sweetened Patsos at 235-1514.
beverages can warm you on a cold day and provide your body with beneficial nutrients. Limit alcohol, caf-
feine and cigarette smoking as they decrease the body's ability to conserve heat.
Staying active
E S TAT E S A L E
You probably won't be doing many outdoor activities during this time of year but it is important to try and
maintain some social contact. As often as possible, continue going to church, volunteering, and getting 55 Hill Ave., Wallingford
together with friends and family. Also consider signing up for any of the activities that interest you that you Estate items, collectibles, antiques for sale.
see posted at community centers, health centers, the YMCA and other locations offering senior services
Clearing estate; house hold and collectible
What I'm Thankful For items at bargain prices. 9:00-a.m. to
Rosanne P. Ford 3:00 p.m. on November 14th, 15th, 16th,
I am thankful for waking each day, for my health, for my wonderful husband, Darren and for my family, everything must go. Antique
and friends. Lately there have been so many reminders of how fleeting life is and how unpredictable it is: collectors and dealers are welcome.
Today is a gift, that's why it's called the "present". Live as if each day were your last…

I am thankful that I am in good health and for my positive outlook on life in general - and hope to stay that
way for a long time…
Springtime Tulip River Cruise April 18-26
featuring the Dutch & Belgian
My husband is the most supportive person in my life, and always can make me smile if I've had a tough Waterways This is the glorious sea-
day. I am thankful that we've known each other since high school and have grown together and have been son when the tulip fields are in full
there for each other in good times and bad… bloom Unpack only once on this 7
night all inclusive cruise on the beau-
tiful river vessel MS AMADEUS
My family and friends, immediate and extended are important. While we all have our quirks, I am so PRINCESS. From Amsterdam to
thankful that we are close and get together with each other on a regular basis. Life is too short to hold a Volendam, Arnheim, Middleburg,
grudge or not speak to someone. Live, Laugh, Love. Gent, Bruges, Antwerp, Kinderdijk,
and Utrecht. Price includes flights
No Room For Visiting Relatives This Holiday Season? from New York to Amsterdam.
105 Hanover Street in Meriden
203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516
Email: ktwinc@aol.com
www.kingtravelways.com

Let us give them comfort and pleasure at an affordable price!

Early Birds Drink Champagne at the Four Points by Sheraton


Meriden! Book your holiday party before November 30, 2008
and your entire party will enjoy a complimentary
champagne toast to celebrate the holidays!
Page 17 November 2008

Meriden Public Library News and Events Mr. Scheller has been collecting antique firearms since he was a teen. He
joined the Army National Guard at 17 and began to participate in the National
CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM NOVEMBER 19 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY Rifle Matches on Lake Erie. In 1969 the Army National Guard asked him to
"The Stranger You Know…" a child sexual abuse prevention program for parents sponsored by The Children's be on their All Guard Team which consisted of the top shooters from all over
Trust Fund, will be presented at the Meriden Public Library on Wednesday, November 19 at 6:00 pm. The speaker will the country and by the 1970s he was on the CT National Guard Team winning
be Commander Robert F. Kenary (Ret.). matches all over the country. Mr. Scheller won a National Match called the
This program gives parents precise and up to date information on how child molesters successfully offend against Presidents Hundred at Camp Perry in 1979 and has earned the coveted
children. Knowing how they think, act and operate is the best protection we have against sexual offenders. Distinguished Rifle Medal while in the National Guard.
Commander Kenary is the recipient of the Martin A. Burnham Award for child abuse prevention and two official Mr. Scheller belongs to many clubs that honor the shooting sport. These
citations from the Connecticut General Assembly for child sexual abuse prevention (2006, 2007). He spent 33 years include the Hartford Schuetzen Verein, the Brooklyn Schuetzen Corps, The
with the East Hartford Police Department, 30 of those years in the detective division. He was assigned to the FBI for New York Schuetzen Corps where he became the Shooting King in 2006, the
three years investigating sexual offenses against children. Commander Kenary is a graduate of the prestigious FBI Massachusetts Schuetzen Verein, the East Windsor Sportsmens Club where he
National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Among his many professional affiliations are the Institute of Living and the is Range Manager, the Oerlinghausen Schuetzen in Germany where he has
Department of Psychiatry at UCONN School of Medicine. family, the German Gun Collectors Association, The National Rifle
This program is free but seating is limited. Contact the Meriden Public Library Community Services Department Association, the Hartford Saegerbund, the Hartford Liederkranz, and the
at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit our website at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult Student Prince Gruppe of Stein Collectors International. He and his wife
events" to reserve a seat. Ginny were schuplattler and folk dancers.
COOKING PROGRAM NOVEMBER 22 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY The program is free but seating is limited. Contact the Community
You are cordially invited to the Meriden Public Library on Saturday, November 22 at 2:00 pm to see Chef Kashia Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit
Cave prepare an "Italian Holiday Fare." The menu will be Pumpkin Soup, Pizzette with Tomato and Basil, Penne Pasta our homepage at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to
with Veggie and Chicken, and Stuffed Cannoli with Ricotta Cheese. The recipes and samples of the menu items will be reserve a seat.
available at the end of the program. CELEBRATING THE POLISH COMMUNITY IN MERIDEN
Chef Kashia Cave is a native of the island of Trinidad and Tobago, a graduate from the Connecticut Culinary The Meriden Public Library will be celebrating the Polish culture and com-
Institute and an American Culinary Federation Award winner. Ms. Cave recently returned from Italy where she com- munity in Meriden as we participate in the World of Words program in May
pleted an extensive Italian Culinary program at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners and worked at the Mistral 2009. The purpose of the program is to learn about our community's cultural
Restaurant in the G.H. Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio, Italy. roots and explore our ethnic similarities and differences. Residents who
The program is free but seating is limited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349, email would like to participate in the activities or have ideas for activities are invit-
comsvc@hotmail.com, or visit our website at www.meridenlibrary.org and click on "Adult events" to reserve a seat. ed to a meeting at the Library in the Griffin Room on Friday, November 14
PLAYAWAYS ARE AT THE MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. Please contact the Community Services Department at
Playaways have arrived! Playaways are small, portable, self-playing talking books. You can check out a Playaway 630-6349 if you would like to participate but are unable to make the meeting.
just like any other audio book. It's very simple to use. The book is pre-loaded on the device. There's nothing to down- CALLING ALL CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS…
load - simply plug in your favorite earphones and start listening. You can even use an FM transmitter or cassette tape Calling all local non-profit organizations, clubs, and service organizations:
adaptor with a standard headphone plug to use the Playaways in your car. the Meriden Public Library is compiling information which will be entered
The Library will provide a preloaded complimentary battery for use in the Playaways. However, you will need to into the "Community Information" file found on our online catalog. This free
provide your own earphones. Ear-buds are available for purchase at the library in our vending machine. database is accessible through the Meriden Public Library's online catalog
Playaways are borrowed for 21 days with your library card. The overdue fine is ten cents per day. located at www.meridenlibrary.org. It allows the public easy access to locat-
There is a limit of one per person and they cannot be renewed nor are you able to place a hold on them. If you have ing agencies that provide help with issues such as health, housing, legal aid,
any questions about Playaways, contact the Library at (203) 238-2347. or genealogy along with service clubs and organizations in Meriden.
UPDATING COMMUNITY INFORMATION DATABASE AT MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Local non-profit agencies, clubs, and organizations are invited to partici-
Calling all local non-profit organizations, clubs, and service organizations: the Meriden Public Library is compil- pate by listing their agency on this database. Each agency record will include
ing information which will be entered into the "Community Information" file found on our online catalog. This free the agency's name and address, contact information, a description of the orga-
database is accessible through the Meriden Public Library's online catalog located at www.meridenlibrary.org. It nization, services offered, and a link to their website.
allows the public easy access to locating agencies that provide help with issues such as health, housing, legal aid, or Fill out the form found on the library's website located in the Room
genealogy along with service clubs and organizations in Meriden. Booking information and send it to the Meriden Public Library, Attn:
Local non-profit agencies, clubs, and organizations are invited to participate by listing their agency on this data- Community Services Dept., 105 Miller St., P.O. Box 868, Meriden, CT 06450
base. Each agency record will include the agency's name and address, contact information, a description of the organi- or contact the Community Services Dept. at 630-6349 if you would like a
zation, services offered, and a link to their website. form mailed to you.
Fill out the form found on the library's website located in the Room Booking information and send it to the
Meriden Public Library, Attn: Community Services Dept., 105 Miller St., P.O. Box 868, Meriden, CT 06450 or contact DUBAI!!! March 27 - April 3, 2009
the Community Services Dept. at 630-6349 if you would like form mailed to you.
For a truly incredible adventure in the
HISTORY OF THE MERIDEN SCHUETZEN (SHOOTING) CLUB NOVEMBER 12 metropolis of tomorrow; Dubai welcomes the
The Meriden Historical Society and Meriden Public Library invite the public to "The History of the Meriden world to the land of Arabian nights. Year
Schuetzen (Shooting) Club" presented by Max (Robert) Scheller on Wednesday, November 12 at 6:30 pm in the round sunshine, a friendly, safe environment,
Griffin Room at the Library. Mr. Scheller will discuss the who, what, when, where, and why of the traditions of and cosmopolitan life-style. It has it all - the
world's tallest tower, the world's largest shop-
German target shooting which came to Meriden and other towns in Connecticut and the U.S. beginning in the 1800s.
ping mall, pristine beaches, golf, horse-rac-
He will have some interesting memorabilia for the public to view. ing, skiing, sailing, diving. Contrast this with
old world charm, shopping bazaars, desert

Let’s Talk Turkey!


safaris, camel riding, Call for more info!
105 Hanover Street in Meriden
203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516
Colony Opticians

Email: ktwinc@aol.com
The Complete Optical Experience!

www.kingtravelways.com

Don’t go over empty handed!

Cheesecake - No one makes it


like Marianna’s with
Mama’s Secret Recipe!!!
Open Thanksgiving Day 7am-1pm!
Nobody Cares More About Your Vision Than Colony!
Better Vision is within your sight!
COLONY O PTICIANS
60 Church St. (Rt. 68) &
O ptometrists Hours: Mon-Tues.- 7-6; Saturday 7-4; Sun. 7-2
Wallingford 203-265-2205 Eye exams by Independent Doctor of Optometry
Page 18 November 2008

Thanksgiving Individuals bring in pies and other home made desserts while
By Nancy Freyberg Brownies, CCD and high school cooking classes bring over pans of
Every year I am always asked this one question by a first time reporter to the holiday community dinners, the best cookies ever! Dennis Bonito brings his guitar and keyboards
"Why do you give up your holidays to do this?" For 27 years I have given the same answer. "Look and plays and sings all afternoon. It is simply amazing and heart
around. Pull up a chair. Stay awhile. Then ask me again." They never do. On Thanksgiving, Christmas, warming to be part of this effort.
and Easter, I get to enjoy the world exactly the way I think God intended it to be. We come together in Every one who works on the "dinners" is blessed by it. It is the
friendship to be with, and to serve one another. We have created a huge family that loves to come home best example I have ever seen of people joining together to make our
year after year. That is the goal of the dinners, to make people feel like they are coming "home." world a little safer, softer, and with such kindness. I give up nothing
Twenty-seven years ago I was out for a walk. I heard a voice say, "find a place and cook. No one should and gain everything to be part of this! The blessings are too many to
be alone for the holidays". I don't want you to worry that I often hear voices, but that one was pretty clear! name.
We started at the Advent Christian church on Whittlesey Avenue. About 35 people attended that first din- Here is what I need as we move in to this wonderful season. There
ner. We added Christmas the next year and began serving Easter Dinner about 15 years ago. As the dinners is a place for everyone who wants to help. We need volunteers on the
grew and needed more space, we moved to St. Paul's Episcopal church for many wonderful years and now actual holidays to help set up, serve, deliver meals to the home bound,
enjoy a tremendous partnership with the First Congregational Church. People from every church in town and clean up. We need help ahead of time in the kitchen doing prep
and every walk of life support the community dinners, which have grown in every direction. work and cooking turkeys. We also need donations of time, talent,
Although Thanksgiving is the largest dinner, with 250 - 400 people eating in the fellowship hall, food and money. Anyone who wants to volunteer, make a financial
Christmas and Easter are close behind. We also send about 250 meals and visits out to the home bound contribution, or donation of food should call the office at 203-284-
each holiday, and provide food for two other communities so that they might enjoy the holidays too. 8299. We are happy to tell you what we need.
Baskets with turkeys and all the trimmings are given to families at Thanksgiving who want to cook at Dinner is served noon - 2pm Thanksgiving and Christmas day. The
home, and we "adopt" individuals and families at Christmas, providing them with food baskets, gifts, and meal is free and transportation will be provided as needed. The meal is
whatever is needed. The Christmas Adopt - A - Family Program has extended to a school supplies program for anyone who wants to spend the day with others and have a great
in the Fall that sends many kids back to school well equipped with clothes, back packs, lunch boxes, note time.
books, pens, pencils, and so much of what they need to be successful in school. One of the thanks I received after Christmas last year was from a
As the dinners and everything attached to them has grown, we have affectionately renamed it "God's 91-year-old woman who had received a meal and visit. Her note sim-
Dinner". It really takes a miracle of faith and spirit to bring it all together. This is all done with volunteers ply said, "In 25 years, you have never forgotten me. Thank you."
who share their time, talent, energy, and great kindness to make these holidays wonderful for so many. My thanks to all of you who never forget to share yourselves with oth-
The food is all donated. Even though the dinners are so large, all the food is home made, hand made, heart ers. It makes us all better.
made and healthy! We want every participant to feel like they are coming home for the holidays.
This time like all times is a very good one if we but know what to do

It’s time to celebrate the good with it - Ralph Waldo Emerson


Everyone is trying to accomplish something big, not realizing that life
is made up of little things. - Frank A. Clark

tastes of the Holiday Season! Celebrations of Life and Home


Rosa’s offers the best pies
and treats for
Thanksgiving!
Call now to place
your order!
Pumpkin, Apple, Apple Crumb, Cherry, Blueberry, Peach,
Pecan, Lemon Merangue,Pumpkin Cheese Cake, Cheese
Cake with your choice of toppings!Also Italian Pastries
& Cookie and Tiramisu. WALLINGFORD GARDENERS MARKET
Thanks to all who participated in the 2008 Wallingford Gardeners Market
sponsored by The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc.
Members of both groups Provided volunteers that assisted the public and
vendors throughout the summer season.
We had many vendors with fruit, vegetables, flowers, plants, crafts, as well
as music by The Wallingford Brass Quintet and food provided by Bob and
Carole Golitko. The Rail Road Station Green provided a festive scene each
Saturday morning for the customers And visitors alike. Thanks for making
this year a successful one. See you next July 11th Check the Wallingford
Gardeners Market website at www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for
information on The Wallingford Garden Club Photo by Ellie Tessmer of
vendors Beverly Keener, Nancy Eddy and Doll Barnes.

Visit www.rosasdeli.com
Please visit our website for all of the services Rosa’s can
now offer you including our expanded Catering Menu,
Full Daily Menu and so much more! It’s easy to see, why
so many people enjoy the taste and service at Rosa’s
NOW is the time to call Rosa’s
for your Company or Family PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never
known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of
Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of
PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never
known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of
Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of

Holiday Party!!! Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of


God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my
necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and
Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of
God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my
necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and
show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy

Rosa’s Italian Deli, LLC Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven


and earth, I humbly seek you from the bot-
tom of my heart to secure me in my neces-
Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven
and earth, I humbly seek you from the bot-
tom of my heart to secure me in my neces-
imported and domestic foods sity. (Make your request). There are none sity. (Make your request). There are none
party platters • hot and cold subs to go that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary, that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary,
conceived without sin, pray for us who conceived without sin, pray for us who
Open Monday-Saturday 830-6 closed Sunday have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary,
I place this prayer in your hands (3 times).
have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary,
I place this prayer in your hands (3 times).
Tel: 265-1487 • 57 North Colony Street, Say this prayer for three consecutive days
and then you must publish it and it will be
Say this prayer for three consecutive days

Wallingford, CT 06492 • granted to you. Grateful Thanks. B.A.G.K.


and then you must publish it and it will be
granted to you. Grateful Thanks. S.E.B.
Page 19 November 2008

Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties


Unless there's a change in plans this will be my last article until next spring. And I hope it arrives quick, quick and
very QUICK. Still have to remove the Impatien plants from under the park bench and prepare my bed there for my
hibernation. Usually don't go into a deep sleep for a couple of days. Since we have a few tomatoes left I will make
up some of those great sandwiches and take them along with me. After consuming this favorite of mine I should be
ready for my deep slumber. And I also love Turkey Hill Coffee ice cream. Guess I'll have to wait until next year for
that tasty treat. We'll be leaving the house chores, snow shoveling and cat care to Jimmy and LitlBit. Good luck to
them both.
The few gardening chores I have left to do are: remove whatever annuals remain, put peat moss around the roses,
dig up the dahlia bulbs and cut back the chrysanthemums. These beautiful orchid plants finally came into bloom.
Gave away about twelve big bouquets of them. And remember to leave your butterfly bushes alone until next March
or April. The same goes for the grass plant.
A special thanks to all of you who read and enjoy my articles and have told me so. It's a great feeling to hear that.
And I also hope some of my hints have helped with your gardening. So until 2009.
Flowercerly yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien
P.S. Since I will be in hibernation - I want to include two very special early P.S.'s.
The first to our oldest daughter Jaime who lives in New Hampshire and will turn 50 on December 4th. Happy
Birthday! Love always, Mom and Dad.
The second to our son in laws parents Joan and Fred Schmidt whose 50th wedding anniversary is on December 6th.
Love and best wishes, Bobbie and Jimmy
And a big thank you to our dear friend Jeff's grandmother Helen who lives in Mass. For the delicious desserts that
she sends down to us.
LitlBit Also including the latest photo of our long-haired dachshund LitlBit.

Annual Holiday Parranda


The wildly popular Annual Holiday Parranda will be held on Friday, December 5, 2008 at the John Barry School
Cafeteria, 124 Columbia Street in Meriden from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Diversion Familiar - Disfrute la Musica -
Hispana/Latina.
A Parranda is the Spanish version of Christmas caroling that is popular in Puerto Rico. Traditionally, it entails a
musical troupe traveling from house to house, serenading family and neighbors with songs of the season. At each
home, the carolers are provided with food and drinks. The Meriden area Parranda will celebrate the season with the
alcohol and tobacco free event, but with plenty of food and music!
Hector Cardona, a Meriden police officer, his family band and the Voices of Christmas will entertain with tradition-
al holiday songs at this family oriented evening. Some of the songs include "El Coqui" (Island Frog), "La Luz" (The
Light), and "La Vida Campesina" (The Country Life).
Traditional foods will be served. The event is free and open to the public. The Parranda is sponsored by the
Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council (MAWSAC), and supported by the Meriden Police Department,
Family Resource Center at John Barry School, and Mid State Medical Center.
For more information, please call MAWSAC at 203-294-3591.

Whenever I see an old lady slip and fall on a wet sidewalk, my first instinct is to laugh. But then I think, what if
Celebrations I was an ant, and she fell on me. Then it wouldn't seem quite so funny. - Jack Handey

Once you get people laughing, they're listening and you can tell them almost anything.
- Herbert Gardner

The loves of our lives, we are so very grateful for you both. Happy
Thanksgiving, Hunter and Cole! All our love, Mommy and Daddy

PAWS UP for SAFETY


Now that autmn is here and the
evenings are darker sooner -
Linda Houle of Wallingford and
her two Shetland Shepdogs-
Gidget (12 years) and Sassy (8
years) vest up before their walk
for exercise.
Make no bones about it-walking
your canine friend/s during the
evening hours can be dangerous.
Take precautions and be pawsitive
drivers can see you and your best
friend/s.
A safety vest for you and Fido
will help make you visible to road
traffic, especially in neighbor-
hoods that do not have sidewalks.
You can never be too cautious to
protect and save a life.
So vest up, stay safe, keep fit for
health and don’t forget to take
along a proper scooper/bag to
help keep our roadways and
neighborhoods clean as well.
Page 20 November 2008

"Thanks, Mom"
by George Arndt Happy Birthday!
Some days are sunny, and some days are even sunnier because of the happiness they create.Thanksgiving Day is one of
those sunnier days. A day when we will gather around the dinner table, and share and enjoy, a delicious meal with our
family.
Mom, of course, will be everyone's hero on this special day of family get-togethers. She begins her day with a
smile. A song on her lips can be heard by just watching her as she dices up the vegetables that will be part of the stuff-
ing. Hubbies, like me, will be there to help Mom out. We will point out things that she has to do, and things that need to
be done in a certain order. Inevitably, she will gently say,
"Take your help into the living room and watch TV.
Outside there may be a chilling frost in the air, but inside there will be an enticing aroma of baking and cooking
emanating from the warm, cheerful kitchen. Aromas that will fill the atmosphere---tingling the senses of many happy
folks in homes across this great country of ours on this day of giving thanks.
Soon the table will be overflowing with tureens of plump green beans, savory cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes sim-
mering in buttery-brown sugar, hot buttermilk biscuits---still steaming from the oven, tempting ears of corn piled high---
their glistening yellow kernels awaiting the crunching bites from all, fluffy white mashed potatoes sitting next to the
gravy bowl filled with Mom's special turkey gravy…and of course, the golden-browned turkey resting on its bejeweled
decorative platter. Grace is said…and then…
"Dad, I want a drumstick," resounds from the four corners of the dinning room table. Each accepting the fact that
they will have to settle for a portion of a leg, and then move on to the other items of culinary specialties set before
them---which had been prepared ever so lovingly by Mom.
The hmmms and ahhhhs will echo from the table, and resonate through the cozy little home, as mothers and fathers;
sisters and brothers; grandchildren and even some great-grandchildren overstuff their tummies. And all will be ever so
grateful for the offerings that God has provided us with to share and to be thankful for. Happy 1st Birthday Austin! Love, Grandma Barbara
George Arndt

Who was this woman, what were her dreams What You Need To Know!
All scattered pieces, more than she seems.
HOUSE PROUD
My sister is a compulsive housekeeper. Her windows shine, her floor gleams and her house and garden show the atten-
tion that she gives everything.
I did not inherit this gene. I told my friend that they would never put on my tombstone, "She was a wonderful
housekeeper". She quickly replied "Did you want them to?" I thought about that and decided no, definitely no.
I now tell people "If you're coming to see me, come any time, if you're coming to see my house, make an appoint-
ment". My door is always open and I am always glad to see you. Please ignore the dust.
There is a Polish saying "Gosch w dom, Bog w dom". Roughly translated it says, guests in the house, God is in the
house. I told that saying to heart. It confirmed my conclusion that it was more important to welcome someone, listen
to them, laugh with them, and cry with them. I could always polish that floor.
Joan Lewis Charlottesville, VA

Ronzoni for Rene


Join us in supporting "Rene Forcier" in his fight against colon cancer. All proceeds will be donated to the family
to help defray costs associated with treatment.
"Sponsored by the CUREchief Foundation" Please Contact Debbie Greco bigsister06019@yahoo.com
860-693-4468 Therese Kennett kennett18@comcast.net 203-888-9709 for tickets or to donate an item for the auction
Also on sale at:
The Southford Deli located at 1514 Southford Rd, Southbury, CT Phone:203-264-3354
The Lake House Restaurant located at 337 Roosevelt Dr, Seymour, CT Phone: 203-734-5252
Event Details: Bouquet Makers
This is a family friendly event and we welcome kids! There will be a pasta dinner, cash bar, live Jazz band, The Wallingford Garden Club had a floral design workshop at the First
card making, balloons, face painting, 50/50 raffle and silent auction/raffle.
Baptist Church recently for their Womens Group. Materials were supplied
Place: Colonial Tavern - Oxford Date: Saturday, November 22nd Time: Dinner Seating's 5:00 & 7:00PM
Cost: Adults $20.00 Children under the age of (12) $10.00 by Wallingford Garden Club members and Wade Elmer, vendor of Mollies
Flowers from the Wallingford Gardeners Market. Barbara Bruce demon-

The Augusta Auction 2008 strated 5 different floral designs and bouquet packets were distributed to
each participant. Assisting Barbara Bruce were Clare Clark, Carole
Golitko, Ellie Tessmer, Marilyn Ollayos, and President Lillian Weaver.
Saturday, November 15, 2008 The Wallingford Garden Club is a member of the Federated Garden Clubs
We hold the Augusta Auction annually. This gives us the opportunity to gather rare, unusual, and desir- of CT and National Garden Clubs, Inc.
able items. This results in bargains for the public and generates vital funds for the center. Items generally Photo: Carole Golitko handing out bouquet packets to participants.
sell between $20 and $2,500, and run the gamut from antiques to construction services, thematic gift bas-
kets to get-aways in Martha’s Vineyard or Nova Scotia. The Augusta Auction 2008 Catalog, containing
advance descriptions of auction items and their donors, will be distributed in our area around November
1st.
Yalesville United Methodist Women
A private preview party will be held 6:00 to 7:00pm on the night of the auction. Present the annual
Guests will enjoy coffee and desserts in the Rotunda, and may peruse auction items
at their leisure, as well as choose seats for the auction. Tickets are $15, or 2 for $25.
Doors will then open to the general public at 7:00 and the auction will begin at
7:30. Once again the professional staff of Nest Egg Auctions have volunteered
Christmas in
to conduct the auction on our behalf, assisted by some of our dazzling local
community leaders. November
We hope you’ll join us for the auction on November 15th and get some
of your Christmas shopping done! We’re also hoping to enjoy November 22 from 9am-2
2pm
your company at the private preview party. If you would like to Homemade Breakfast and Lunch will be served
donate an item or service to the auction, or want to run an ad in
our high-profile catalog, we have attached the forms for your Homemade Breakfast, Homemade Soups,
convenience Sandwiches and Desserts at Lunchtime
Live auctions items available.....Trips, Furniture,
Celebrity Memorabilia, art, antiques,and so much Handcrafted Gifts, Wreaths and Other Decorations
more.........Save the date to support the Arts & Cultural Christmas Decorations, Ornaments,
Center of Meriden.. Live Auction featuring Nest Egg Auctions. Quilts, Blankets and Pillows
Table of Treasures -
Jewelry, Trinkets, Glassware, Linens
Antiques and Cards
Bake Table
See you at the fair!
Yalesville United Methodist Church
Corner of New Place St. & Church St. (Rt. 68)
COME ONE, COME ALL
Proceeds go those in need!
Page 21 November 2008

People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon Wallingford Viking's D-Squad Cheerleaders -


Look for the answers in this issue. Some Words From The Coaches
My name is Kasey Cocchiaro and I am the head coach for the Wallingford Viking's D-Squad Cheerleaders. This is my
ACROSS Moines as it's capital.
first year coaching and I am enjoying every minute of it. I am a proud mom of 4 living children. The holiday season is
1. Buffalo 3. "Enjoy your_____, it's later than hard for me since December 2006 is when we lost our unborn daughter (38 wks), however, this year although unhappy
5. Picnic pests you think."" memories come up and the smallest things make me cry - I have something else to look forward to and that is my new
9. American inventor of the tele- 4. 1994 movie starring Jodie Foster, found family within the Vikings. The Vikings as a whole is one of the most friendliest and child orientated leagues I
phone. Liam Neeson & Natasha Richardson. have had the fortune of being a part of. My 6 girls have given me so much young life back, they practice hard, make me
12. Fish eggs 5. An expert. laugh, share their lives with me, ask me for advice and make me so very proud. Because of their hard work they compet-
13. Coded 6. First Lady of USA from 1981 to ed at the Local Competitions on October 25th and placed 2nd in their age and division bracket. Now that they have
16. Nocturnal bird of prey 1989. (initials) accomplished this, they move on to Regionals in Rhode Island same as the C-Squad.
17. Famous Civil War general 7. Model and CBS talk show hostess I am so very thankful for having the opportunity to coach such a fine group of young ladies, to be able to become
18. Uncooked _________ Banks. another mentor for them, someone they can ALWAYS turn to if they need me. Plus, I have found such wonderful knew
19. Breakfast food cooked in an 8. Bowling term. friends with all of their parents. So much so that at times they have become a sounding board for me, s omeone to just
"iron" 9. "To ___ or not to___, that is the talk to, and sometimes to bounce ideas off of. I am thankful they trust me enough to coach their daughters, to pick them
up when they are at work, and to sometimes bring them home to feed them. As a family, we all do what we can to help
21. An organism living in, with, or question."
each other out - you know that old saying about it taking a village to raise a child - well with the Vikings we are all will-
on another organism 10. Name of the dog on the TV sit- ing to do our part to help encourage, praise, direct, and mentor the youth in our town.
24. National women's organization com "Fraiser". Lastly, I am thankful for my own family for supporting me in my efforts with the Wallingford Vikings. I have a
for descendants of people who aided 11. "Give me _________ or give me daughter, Savannah, who is a cheerleader and is on the Mitey Mites (who did an awesome job on their exhibition at the
the 13 Colonies in death". competitions); my son Vincent who is too young to participate; my youngest Dayton who is just walking; my oldest
their rebellion from 1775 to 14. Necessity, shortage, insufficien- Nick who is in year one of college; my husband Ian who has stayed home numerous nights taking care of all the kids so
1783 cy. I could concentrate on the cheer squad; and last but not least my in-laws who on numerous occasions came to our home
26. Person expected to take over; a 15. Airline purchased by Howard to help out.
beneficiary or successor Hughes in 1939. (Initials) Without all these villagers, my children wouldn't have gotten the care they so deserve; I wouldn't have had the oppor-
27. To grow weary. 20. Aerial displays often seen on the tunity to coach the squad; and the girls wouldn't have had the experience of cheering and going to competition. Thank
30. The egg or young of a louse. 4th of July. you to everyone for all your hard work, determination, and support. Happy Holidays.
32. A direction. 21. Arrogant, disdainful. I would include a picture of all the girls holding their trophy, but they were all so excited that they ran to their parents
33. Founder of CNN and TNT; also 22. Thin, fine, and transparent. after the competition and well, that's how it goes. Maybe I can get one once they place 1st or 2nd at Regionals.
Sincerely, Coach Kasey Cocchiaro
former husband of Jane Fonda (ini- 23. British Liner that sank in April
tials) 1912 after crashing into an iceberg. My name is Judy Greco and I am the head coach for the Wallingford Viking C-Squad Cheerleaders. I have been coach-
34. American holiday celebrated on 25. Pseudonym of Abigail Van ing for four years now. My daughter McKenzie's passion for the sport is what has inspired me to s tart c oaching. I now
July 4. Buren's sister. share in her passion. I am thankful for all the girls on my squad that share in this drive. Their commitment and success
37. An American slave and leader of 27. A yellow crystalline compound, can not be expressed to you in words. On October 25th, 2008 our squad took 1st place in the Locals Competition in
the Southampton Insurrection in used mainly as a high explosive. Waterbury. I could not be more proud of them. By placing first in this competition, they now advance to Regional
1831. (initials) 28. A photo __ is required before Competition in Providence, Rhode Island on November 29th, 2008.
38. Captain Ahab hunted these large you can board a commercial airliner. If the girls place 1st or 2nd in this competition, they will be headed for National Competition on December 12th,
marine mammals. 29. One of the books of the Bible in 2008 in Orlando, Florida. Please wish them luck! They have worked so hard to get here.
39. A port city in northwestern the New Testament, written by Paul. I am thankful to the league, my staff of coaches and the cheerleaders parents because without them, we would not be
Algeria and the country's 2nd largest 31. Examine or quiz. so sincerely grateful for what we have accomplished and what we have yet to learn and be successful for. I am especial-
city. 32. A large display found in almost ly thankful to all 10 of my girls and my coaching staff for working very <BR>hard while I was away tending to my old-
est son Ricky who had major surgery during our 1st competition. My son Ricky's surgery was a success and I am thank-
40. One of the Three Stooges. every sports stadium or arena.
ful to say he is doing well. Thank you girls and staff for being there for me when I needed you the most!
41. Back, astern, (nautical) 34. Hotels or lodges which provide Sincerely, Coach Judy Greco
42. Mealtime apparel accessory overnight accommodations for travel-
worn by babies and small children. ers.
44. "Thank your lucky _______." 35. Every one of a group considered
46. The 13th letter of the Greek individually. (abr.)
alphabet. 36. To strike or hit lightly.
47. Lipton, Celestial Seasoning, 40. First African-American singer to
Snapple, e.g. perform at New York's Metropolitan
49. NBC - "Late Night with ______ Opera. (Initials)
" (initials). 43. Singer, Bruce Springsteen, is
50. A kind of basketwork wear in a also known as "The ______".
river, for catching fish. 45. A three base hit in baseball.
53. A woman's undergarment. 48. Form of the verb "to be".
54. Crazy, deranged, psychopathic, 51. Acronym for the nucleic acid is
57. Any of various one-celled aquat- found in cells and that carries genetic
ic or parasitic protozoans, having no information.
definite form with one or more nuclei 52. Actor, James Dean, starred in the
with a flexible outer membrane. 1955 movie, "_______ of Eden".
59. Imitate 54. An abdominal muscle. (Slang)
60. Nostrils. 56. Clean and tidy.

Give Thanks
62. Strikes with an open hand. 58. An ending of a prayer.
64. Irony, sarcasm, or caustic with 59. Snake associated with Cleopatra.
used to attack or expose folly, vice, 61. Corn container.
or stupidity. 63. Ma and ___ Kettle.
67. TV's talking horse, Mr. _____". 65. A photo ___ is required before
69. International organization con- you can board a commercial airliner.
cerned with the treatment of animals. 66. Long time 81 year old stage and
(acronym) screen actress, recently played 2005
70. Doctor with a drill, (initials). "Gertrude" in the movie, "Monster-
71. Opposite of yes. in-Law" and currently filming
DOWN "Broadway: Beyond the Golden
1. Foreheads. Age". (Initials)
2. Midwestern state with Des 68. To perform or execute

To Yo u r Fr i e n ds a n d Fa m i ly
Th i s Th a n k s g i v i n g !
Wallingford Flower and Gift Shoppe
Wallingford’s Florist Since 1950
190 Center Street 203-265-1514
Page 22 November 2008

The deadline for the next issue of The Dear Housewives - Central Connecticuts Know It All Gals
People’s Press is November 28th. Email Dear Readers,
Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues,
your stories, news, and photos to DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advise
from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with
dawn@peoplespressnews.com. Don’t your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue. Let's remember
forget to send your holiday greeting! what we are thankful for! June and Flora
Dear Housewives,
Look for the form in this issue or just I am a big thank you note writer. How do you send proper baby thank
you's? I know I can write it for him but I feel that is so impersonal. How
email your photo and message. can I make it more like from baby? Polite mom in Meriden
JUNE: Dear Polite, I am happy to hear your question because not enough people
Celebrations of make their kids write thank you notes anymore. I do but I can't tell you how
Life & Home many parties we have been to where we don't ever get a thank you from the child. Shameful.
You can print out a nice card or write one out but include a picture of the baby enjoying the gift or just a nice smiling
A message from Sienna and the picture. If the child can hold crayons you can have them "scribble" a little something on the card. It shows you gave it
Meriden Health Department an effort to get the child interested. Keep up the good work.
FLORA: Writing thank you notes is a lost art in some circles. Starting when your child as a baby is brilliant! I encour-
The flu season is here, so age you to keep up the tradition until your child can write them. You may receive many gifts over the years from people
remember… who took the time to select something special for your child; taking the time to thank them is the right thing to do.
Cover your cough, cover your But....to answer your question. I really like the idea of a photo of your child enjoying the gift along with a brief note
sneeze!!! thanking them. If it is a monetary gift, you can write the note. Thank you for being Thankful!
JUNE: I like the photo idea Flora. I make my own on the computer many times and one year I had my son hold up a
sign that was written in crayon that said thank you. He had all his toys around him. Since we didn't open them when
Stop in for Great Prices people were there it was a great way for all to see what he had gotten.

and to see old friends! Dear Housewives,


I need to have your perspective on people who buy doggie strollers for their dogs.Perplexed, completely per-
plexed.
FLORA: There is no good reason I can think of why a responsible dog owner would not exercise their dog and parade
them in a foo-foo stroller. It seems to be 'all about the owner' and not about the dog. Stick with the leash people.
JUNE: I know someone who does this with their cat. I agree (surprise!) with Flora, there is no reason an animal (who
people domesticated) should not feel the ground and the grass on their feet. Animals are not people, they are made with
tough paws and fur. They can withstand hot and cold temps and can walk on rough terrain. Get a grip. Don't get a pet
if you want to be that dainty get a picture of a pet.
Dear Housewives,
I was having a conversation, a serious one at that, with someone in their 20's and twice she checked her cell
phone. It did not ring, but a signal must have went off letting her know there was a text message. It was quick but
quite rude. What do my Dear Housewives think of this common behavior?
PS I think you both are fabulous. You should put a book together of all your columns and have a book signing. I
would like to meet you both! Signed A Big Fan in Meriden
JUNE: First let me say thanks for the kudos. Not sure everyone would like to meet us but you never say never. A book
would be nice, right Flora?
Now, the cell phone generation is one of the rudest generations of our times. People use them to check times, get mes-
sages, take pictures and text. When having a conversation with someone or checking out in line at the store, put the
phone down. People lived for thousands of years without being in touch every second of every day. People put the
phone down, you will be okay.
FLORA: Thank you so much for being a fan. We enjoy the questions we receive each month; we never know what to
expect!! A compilation of Dear Housewives Letters in book form would be a fun project.
As for the cell phone issue, I think unless there is an emergency, (and that would be mentioned before hand) keep the
cell phone tucked away. Stop looking at the time, stop texting and do not answer during time together with someone.
Cell phones and the computer seem to be habit forming. But, if no one brings it to their attention, they think nothing of
it. It reminds me of the telephone: "Can you hold on? I have someone on the other line..." but that is another question
for another column.
*A note to drivers: Driving around with a cell phone to your ear when you have children in the car is neglectful.
Engage in meaningful conversation with your children. Toddlers in need of dialogue are strapped in their car seat staring
out the window while the driver is yapping on the phone. Kids will communicate better, read better and treat others bet-
ter when they have a good head start. Thanks!*
Book Nook/Movie Corner
FLORA: I am so backed-up with my reading. I am currently catching up on some magazine piles (Oprah and
169 North Plains Industrial Road in Wallingford 203.626.0423 Kiplinger's) and reading my Bible. I just finished making a large quilt that was appliquéd, embroidered, done by hand
Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. & Saturday 10am-5pm Thurs. 10am-6pm Closed Sun. and some machine work. Making that was fun! I plan on starting a new one next week. June, I still need to come by and
look at you quilts!
JUNE: Flora and her Bible studies. Aren't you done with that book yet? What in the world is Kiplinger's? I just read

At Rousseaus’s, we The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. This was a quick read and a nice little book about a professor facing the end of his
life with cancer. Very sad subject so I am following it up with Barbara Walters' book Audition. I will let you know how
it is as I have just finished about half so far.
get to the bottom of FLORA: Kiplinger's in a personal finance magazine. I read The Last Lecture in bits and pieces in the deli line over a
few weeks.

Car Troubles!
I plan on seeing the 1980 movie Airplane this week. June must be thinking: Shirley, she can't be serious...
JUNE: Ahh, Airplane? What century are you from Flora? Oh, hey, I have a great movie for you it is called The
Wizard of Oz. You probably haven't heard of it yet. After that maybe a little ditty about a man named George Bailey in
It's a Wonderful Life. Flora, you need to get with the program.
JUNE: Attention people. Here is an idea for something different to do with your husband or family. I took Mr. June
and two out of three little Junes' on a helicopter ride a couple of weeks ago. The foliage was beautiful and it was really
fun. I am afraid of heights badly but managed to go and do it. It started as an anniversary gift for my husband but
turned into an adventure for him, our kids and me. The pilot was very good and we had a great experience. There is a
heliport right in Wallingford. Check it out--your men would love it.

Children First Awards Children's Champions


On September 24, more than 100 people joined in celebrating this year's Meriden Children First 'Children's
Champions. A Champion is one who goes 'above and beyond' to make a difference in the lives of young children.
This year's Champs are Cliff Comerford and the memory of Frank Olschefski.
Cliff is a lawyer in the Waterbury area and lives in Newtown. He has been volunteering three nights a week at the
Beat the Street Community Center for seven years and has traveled with the program's boxing team throughout New
England.
He started by bringing a young man named Terry to train in boxing. Terry wanted to learn how to box. Cliff com-
mitted himself to be his trainer at the center. But he didn't just train Terry in boxing. He gave Terry life skills that have
carried him into being a fine young man. When Cliff helped Terry become Western New England Golden Glove Champ
in 2000, he fought and beat Jay don Carrington - a finalist on the recent network TV show the "Contender".
Cliff also helped get Terry into college where he received a degree in culinary arts. Terry joined the US Army and
became a Sergeant in the Military Police. Cliff has even volunteered to represent members in court cases to help them

Rousseau’s
get back on the right track. Cliff has turned around many lives at Beat the Street.
The other Children's Champion award was given to his family in memory of Frank Olschefski. Mr. Olschefski
passed away before his time earlier this year. Frank, in the words of John Malek, Cub Scout Pack 22 leader at Hanover

Auto Repair School:'was a big, burly man with a soft and kind heart. He always offered a helping hand, wanted to contribute during
every activity and thought of others first. And he always tried to instill these ideals in the Scouts of his den. This man
rarely missed a committee meeting; he always wanted to give our Scouts something. He attended fundraising events,
Complete Auto Repair parades, hikes and sporting events all in support of the Scouts in the program. He was proud to wear his uniform and
Family Owned... Family Friendly Since 1954 knew what it meant to be a Scouting Leader. He was wholeheartedly dedicated to his family, friends and Scouts.
Others noted about Frank that, "You never saw him without his family by his side, they were always together. He
Find Out Why by Stopping Down Today! was a very proud and involved parent." And another: "He made each child feel important and cared for."
369 Cook Ave., Meriden Children First applauds the many 1000s of us who make a difference in the lives of children every day. And for
those like Cliff and Frank who give a little more, we are honored to call you this year's Children's Champions.
235-2561 Children First is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping Meriden children become ready, willing and able to
succeed. For more information about Children First, contact 630-3566 or visit www.meridenchildrenfirst.org
Page 23 November 2008

The True Meaning of Thanks Giving Imagination was given to man to compensate him for
By: Maggie Griffin - for all Adults and Kids to read. what he isn't. A sense of humor was provided to console
To begin, I want to wish Andy and Dawn the happiest of Thanks Giving and for years to come. him for what he is. - Horace Walpole
They have made a difference to our community by publishing Good News, Advertising Businesses A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds
in the paper that is also viewed online as well. Through their work, they encourage people to reach
out and make a difference.
balance to your step as you walk the tightrope of life -
Setting an example is the best way of being thankful. Let's look back on how Thanks Giving William Arthur Ward
became established.
The history of Thanks Giving started with the harvest celebration of the pilgrims and the Indians. What You Need To Know!
It took place in the autumn of 1621. Although they did have a three-day feast in celebration, and the
local Indians did participate, this "first Thanksgiving" was not a holiday, simply a gathering.This
simple gathering led directly to our modern Thanksgiving Day holiday. Thanksgiving can, however, be traced back to
1863 when Pres. Lincoln became the first president to proclaim Thanksgiving Day. The holiday has been a fixture of late
November ever since.
Prior to that, however, the Pilgrims and Indians did not get along. Like in our era of today, one bullied the other,
fought over what should have been shared and the Indians did not welcome the Pilgrims to their land.
But it took generosity, care and sincerity to make both realize what was happening. They wanted their friction to end
by celebrating their peace making.
In today's society, it is unfortunate that kids get bullied, adults get mocked, people fight and families hold grudges.
But stop and think for one moment about this. Where does this anger get you? Then ask yourself why the holidays
don't feel the same as they did in the past.
I see so much happening both in the business world, schools and in families. But, as Isaac Newton once discovered,
for every action there is a reaction, think about what you do today, good or bad, does effect the life of someone else.
Coming from a family of 6 children, I am thankful to my siblings. I have a sister who recently had a heart attack.
This is the sister I mentioned in my Summer Memories Article about the Barbie dolls and how I would cut the hair off
all her Barbie dolls when we were kids. Here is the good news in all of this. To make up for what I did, I started a col-
lection, searching for Barbie Dolls from the era of the 60's and 70's. I finally collected enough to give to her as a sur-
prise. She was more then surprised, but then I though to myself, "did she have a heart attack because I gave her Barbie
Dolls from our era when we grew up?" Something she never expected.
The truth is, no, she did not have a heart attacked being shocked over receiving a collection of Barbie's from me.
But, as she is my sister, I am thankful she made it to the Emergency Room in time to save her. Then surgery took place
two days following and she is still recovering. Meriden's First Walk to School Day a Success
Then there is this girl, a Junior in a school who is against drugs and drinking. She became an advocate to stop kids The Meriden Kids Walk Safe Coalition, a Safe Routes to School Initiative,
her age from doing the worse. In speaking to her, she told me she found two Freshman girls in the bathroom smoking would like to thank the parents, guardians, and children that participated in
the bad stuff. She approached them, asked their names and told them to give what they are smoking to her. From there, Meriden's first annual Walk to School Day on October 8, 2008.
she reported it to the school authorities. Now these two girls may not like this junior, however, later on in life I feel con- Over 25 families from Benjamin Franklin, Israel Putnam, Roger Sherman,
fident that they will be thankful she did that for them. A lesson was taught and this junior did the right thing for the two and Lincoln and Washington middle schools walked to school. Walking to
freshman girls. She saved their lives, even though these freshman's may not see that now, but they will see it later. They school is important for many reasons:
should be thankful. * It teaches children safe walking skills, such as how to cross streets and
Then there is a boy in middle school, he takes the blame for what other kids do so he can keep his friends. It's sad, I
how to select safe routes to schools.
know. These "friends" also tease him and know they can provoke him with knowledge that this boy will not tell and will
take the blame to protect them so he can keep peace. yet the other kids provoke him because they know it hurts his feel- * It encourages healthy habits. Adults and children spend healthy, active
ings and make him react out of this hurt. How much hurt can this boy take? And he still will take the blame for another time together doing the worlds' simplest exercise - walking. Many parents
students actions, even if they provoked him first by teasing him, pushing him, poking him, etc. The School, they don't discovered that walking to school actually takes less time than driving.
listen, yet they know that this boy takes the blame for others. All I can say is, kids, be honest with yourself, don't do this * It helps communities take specific steps to create more walkable neigh-
to a fellow student so you can stay out of trouble. Most of all, rather then protecting your friends and yourself so you borhoods, such as advocating for more crosswalks, sidewalks, crossing
don't get suspended, why do you think it is ok for you to do this to a fellow student and let this fellow student take the guards and better driver behavior. This is not only good for the community
blame for your actions and continue to provoke this student, after the fact, who thinks you are his friend? How would but for the environment as well.
you feel if a fellow student did that to you. This is called Bullying and it must stop. I'll tell you why. Meriden Kids Walk Safe Coalition could not have had a successful Walk
In future years to come, this child who takes the blame to protect you, you may need him in your adult life to help to School Day without the help of many community partners. A special
you in a serious situation. You see, there is no such thing as "popularity", I learned that the hard way when I walked up
thanks to the Graustein Memorial Fund, our co-sponsor, and the following
to receive my diploma for High School over 20 years ago. I teased my fellow students, but today, I called on a few for
help in things like Cancer treatments, legal help, and it just so happens one of those kids I teased back in my day took individuals:
care of my Father prior to his passing away. City of Meriden Mayor Mike Rohde, Lea Crown of the Meriden Health
I know this young lady in her 20's that I have help when she first became a mother when she was a teenager. I have not Department, Dave Swedock of the Council of Neighborhoods, Lt. Sal Nesci
seen this person in over 3 years. The last time I saw her was at my Dad's funeral. She keeps her two kids from seeing of the Meriden Police Department, Amy Filippides CT Parent Power,
their grand mother and great-grand mother. How shameful is that? What she does not realize, and maybe won't realize Meriden Children's First Initiative, Sharon Okoye, Safe Routes to School
it until 10 years from now, she is actually hurting her children by using them as a tool against her mother (their grand Coordinator for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, State
mother). All I can say is patience is a virtue when raising kids and I think she is starting to realize that now since she is Trooper Vance and State Trooper Johnson of the Connecticut State Police.
a mother of 2 now. But, she is pure selfish, unforgiving, hurtful and was quick to have her hand out to take. Thank you to our elected officials Congressman Christopher Murphy,
Unfortunately, when I said life is a circle, and a cycle, what you do today and how you act will repeat the circle of the Majority Leader Christopher Donovan, Senator Thomas Gaffey, and State
cycle and done onto you later in life. When you teach your kids the "no talking method", ask yourself when they grow
Representative Cathy Abercrombie, for welcoming the walkers once they
up and have kids of their own why they don't talk to you. I don't want to be there to witness when her children grow up
and not want to talk to her. Take my advice, young lady, make peace with your mother and let her see her grand chil- got to school and sharing encouraging words about the importance of walk-
dren, I am telling you this for reasons and the reasons is several. ing for personal health and the health of our environment.
We all know how to get up in the morning, get ready for work or school, go about our days in our jobs, education For more information on the Meriden Kids Walk Safe Coalition, please
and back home to who we live with. But, ask yourself this one question, if you know how to do a daily routine, even if contact Gwen Samuel at 203-886-7684 or email: meridenkidsafe@aol.com.
it means you like what you do and who you are with, but do you really like yourself when you live a selfish way? The
most valuable thing everyone has is a soul. Close your eyes, plug your ears and listen only with your heart. Your heart
gives you the right answer.
Believe me, I am not preaching, I am just teaching. And I am just go to say it because it's my story and it is factual.
Funny - I always tease my husband by telling my kids Daddy was on the Mayflower. But the truth is, think of the
Roll on Down to Marianna’s
Pilgrims and the Indians and their reason to hold a Feast of Celebration in late Fall, a Feast that lasted three days.
It became known as the Feast of Peace, giving thanks to each other with sincerity because both, in history, realized,
they cannot live on the same land and fight, bully, steel, take and hurt, most of all, what was most important to them was
Family and Friends and turning right where it was wrong.
Peace Making is the Best Thankful Gift to celebrate on This Thanks Giving Day and Thanks Giving years to come.
Be kind to your fellow student, think about how you would feel if you were teased, picked on or bullied. Children,
talk to your parents and don't use your children as tools against them because some day, you will be the Grand Parent
waiting and hoping your child visits and lets you see your grand children. The cycle will repeat itself when your kids
are older, whether you want to believe that or not, if you do not change. And don't drink or do drugs, it will and can hurt
you in more ways then one, whether you realize it or not. Damaging your bodies is not "being cool".
And adults, just be thankful you have friends and family. Drivers on the road, I have to tell you, flipping the finger at
me, I am honored you tell me I am #1. But I have to admit, Road Safety rather then Road Rage will prevent an accident
and a possible fatality, so. if you are behind me, still expect me to go the speed limit, wear my seat belt and not talk on
my cell phone, this too sets an example to my kids when they get their driver's license. Kids, follow the new licensing
laws. Those laws are enforced to save your life when you are behind the wheel and the lives of others. Be thankful our
State Government changed the licensing laws to protect you. At your age, driving is a privilege. Then there is always
the city bus stop if you keep complaining. Follow the rules and the laws.
It takes one person and others to see what they see, feel what they feel and more to make a difference. I am one of
Find Everything You Need For
many who see these things, all of them and more I am writing in this special article.
On Thanks Giving Day, don't ask who took the bacon off the Turkey, just be Thankful your Dog didn't eat the Turkey
Thanksgiving from rolls to pies
before it was cut.
Happy Thanks Giving to Everyone. Remember, we only have one life to live, you cannot change someone, you can
to cookies to pastries and more.
only change yourself. Think of the Pilgrims and Indians. If it wasn't for them to set examples, Thanks Giving would Open Thanksgiving Day 7am-1pm!
have not continued for 100's of years, we wouldn't be having the Holiday of Thanks Giving at all. As a Realtor, I always
say to everyone "Home Is Where The Heart Is", remember that no matter where you are.

Family Shabbat Services at Temple B'nai Abraham


At Temple B'nai Abraham at 127 East Main Street in Meriden, families are always welcome to attend Friday night and
Saturday morning Shabbat (Sabbath) services. On Shabbat morning, services begin at 9:30 a.m. Children can help carry
the Torah silver and march with the Torah. Special Family Shabbat evening services will be held on Friday November
21st beginning at 6:30 p.m. On other Friday evenings services begin at 7:30 p.m. For more information, please call (203) Hours: Mon-Tues.- 7-6; Saturday 7-4; Sun. 7-2
235-2581.
Page 24 November 2008
Thankful Thoughts on Hot fire roasted
To inch of our lives.
Our World of Nature 'Lost our thick hulls
By Dorothy Gonick And put in a grinder.
Do we often play the game of "Animal, Vegetable, Broken and crushed
Mineral" without thinking? Torn apart, not kinder.
God has created and filled the Earth with all things 'Grinding and grinding
needful for our existence and pleasure. He has given man Till we became liquid.
a mind to use for transforming these into the food, shel- Then cooled to a paste
ter, clothing, and other useful items for our daily life. To And sent off again.
our discredit we have disrupted nature's inherent growth
and goodness in our quest for a 'bigger and better' 'Dumped into a vat
lifestyle, leaving a staggering amount of refuse to mar the With sugar and such
earth's beauty. We are presently thankful that we've Melted and stirred
become aware of the past misuse of these treasures of the Sweet smells sent aloft.
East Haven earth and are beginning to halt and reverse the damage 'Squeezed from a tube
$249,900. Exc. Starter. 6 rms, 3 BRs, HW Floors, new furnace & roof. done to nature's bounty. What a joy to see the rebirth of Drop by drop, row by row.
2 car gar. Chuck X302 nature's beauty. Looking like marchers
One of the very many daily pleasures we enjoy is our With nowhere to go.
wide variety of food. We're thankful for those who have
planted, cared for, and harvested this abundance. We're 'Bright shiny wrappers
also thankful for those who have prepared and served the Wrapped snuggly around us
meals that nourish us. As we thoughtfully live each day, My how we glimmered
it is easy to be aware of the many facets of our life that Admiring the new 'us'.
are made possible by the thoughtfulness of others-and to 'We rested awhile on a grocery shelf.
offer our thanks. Now we're featured along with
We take so many things for granted. I'll use chocolate Balloons, presents and ribbons,
as an example. Happy to be part of birthday party.
Long ago the natives of South America took cacao
bean pods and discovered their hidden qualities and 'Fingers have grabbed me,
chocolate became known. Today cacao and chocolate Ripped off my gown,
have become a source of that country's livelihood, and of Held me aloft to face a wide smile.
East Haven our enjoyment because we consume chocolate in various Close to the mouth and menacing teeth-
$364,900. Spacious Multi. Great for owner, occupant or yummy ways and glad for it. 'Oh no! Oooowww!!!!'
Investor. Over 3,650 SF. Carol X310 I've written a poem about Chocolate from the beans' October 8, 2008
viewpoint as it traces its life and undergoes transforma- Dorothy Gonick
tion.
Prologue to the Present
Chocolate
My heritage is an ever-burning flame
In the quiet of the afternoon, in a chalice in which the fuel is not
I heard a vague chatter multiple homes, high finances,
Coming from the shopping bag high academic achievement or high positions.
On the kitchen counter.
'Hey, gang, what's next? My heritage is alive
Did you hear her say with the courage and loneliness
We were just right for the party. of a German grandfather who left his family behind
What's a party? and came to America for a new beginning.
It is alive with the courage of his pregnant wife
'We've been through a lot, who, with three children under age four,
What more can they do? came to America after a home was found for them.
I'll make a scrapbook
New Haven Of all we've been through. My heritage is alive
$155,000. Enjoy beautiful water views from this one bedroom 'My delicate blossom with the austerity of their raising seven children
condo with C/A, security system. Jean X306 Withered and dropped, on a factory worker's pay.
Then surprise of surprises, It is alive with my father giving his father
Became golden pod. money he earned from delivering newspapers.
'Was hacked from my tree My heritage is alive
And broken in two. with my father's conviction that his children, two sons,
My many small beans would have the college education he never had.
Into baskets were scooped. It is alive with the courage and loneliness of my mother
'Then miserable days who, after losing her mother at age seven,
Piled under leaves of banana. was placed in a sometimes unloving orphanage.
Sweated, fermented,
I thought we would rot. My heritage is alive
with the love my brother and I received from our par-
'Then spread out to dry ents.
Under hot rays of the sun. It is an ever-burning flame within my spirit.
Basked in the freedom
West Haven From cramped quarters-'twas fun. Alfred W. Mueller Wallingford
$309,900. Lovely 7Rm RR nestled on a cul-de-sac. 3 BRs, 2 'Men came again-
Bths, LR, DR w/sliders to deck, 2 Fps, FR & more. Carol X310 Share a piece of your life for our December
With shovels and bags
“Holiday Magic 2008” issue. Send a photo, a
Scooped all of us up
And bagged us up tight. story, a poem, some good news and more. The
deadline is November 28th. Email your submis-
'Bag upon bag sions to dawn@peoplepsressnews.com
We were packed in a truck If you are interested in advertising in The
Sent on our way
People’s Press feel free to call 203.235.9333 or
With hopes for good luck.
email:
'Dumped into a bin andy@peoplepsressnews.com
Tumbled till clean.

North Haven
$299,900. Spacious cape with newly remodeled kit. & bath, tile, Trek
decking, 4 BRs, 2 full Bths, hot tub, 2-car gar. On less than a half
acre of land. Prime location. Maggie X307

Search all homes for sale in CT @


www.GuerraRealtors.com
Call Toll Free 1-866-281-4956
Customercare@GuerraRealtors.com
Page 25 November 2008
MERIDEN CHILDREN FIRST RECEIVES

If you haven’t come to see us at


GRANT FOR PARENT LEADERSHIP
TRAINING
A grant of $26,000 from the Parents Trust Fund will make it possible for the
Meriden Children First Initiative to offer leadership development training to
Meriden parents. Two training programs will be offered. The first program,
the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI), targets civic involvement
more broadly and helps parents develop skills and knowledge for leadership
in their communities will commence in January. The second program, Parents
Supporting Educational Excellence (Parents SEE), will begin in February and
will focus on understanding how the educational system works in Connecticut
and how parents can partner with schools to bring about positive change.
"These two programs provide an incredible opportunity for Meriden's fami-
lies, children and the community at large," says David Radcliffe, Director of
Meriden Children First. "We are planting seeds that will provide both short-
term and long-term benefits of increased involvement, collaboration, support
Yo u a i n ’ t s e e n n o t h i n g y e t !
and future leadership for our community."
Parents SEE will begin with a retreat on Saturday, January 31, 2009 which Our fireplace products are sold by the thousands
will be followed by a series of 12 workshops on Tuesday evenings. The
meetings will be held at Lincoln Middle School, and dinner and child care across the World but they are designed & created in
will be provided. The three-hour workshops will cover topics such as:
Wallingford & sold right at our outlet store!
* What do effective schools look like?
* What makes an effective leader?
* How do schools function?
* How and why do schools change?
* What is a parent's role in children's learning and school improvement?
* How do parents lead in schools?
The workshops are open to parents, grandparents and others who are rais-
ing children and are limited to 20 participants. Community members who are
interested in participating can obtain additional information and an application
form by calling Noemi Gonzalez, 203-630-3566. The deadline for applica-
tions is November 30th, and follow-up interviews will be scheduled between
December and January.
The Parents Trust Fund is a program of the Children's Trust Fund adminis-
tered in collaboration with the Connecticut Commission on Children and the
Connecticut Center for School Change. The Parents Trust Fund is a statewide
initiative to support parent engagement and parent leadership across
Connecticut. The Meriden Children First Initiative is supported by the
William Caspar Graustein Memorial Fund.

Meriden Arts Council Reception


The Meriden Arts Council, a regional arts agency serving Meriden,
Wallingford and Southington, is holding a reception on 11/20/08 from 6-9 pm
in the Rotunda Room at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 E Main St,
Meriden. Come meet our board of directors and officers, network with other
artists and arts organizations, learn where to find out about arts events and
opportunities in our region, how to get free promotion of your events, and see What makes us different...
what we're up to! There will be a brief presentation, refreshments, and plenty
of opportunity to relax and meet people. The Meriden Arts Council is sup- We INVENT and CREATE innovative products to serve you
ported by the Ct Commission on Culture and Tourism and the National
Endowment for the Arts. For information e-mail based on Elegance, Safety and Ease of Use.
info@meridenartscouncil.org or call Lynn Fisher at 203 235-6270.

Hi Ho!

Factory Outlet Prices await you


HI HO COME TO THE FAIR
Center Congregational Church E. Main and Broad St Meriden, Ct.
at our store that offers you Glass
Mary Zysk has been knitting mittens, hats, scarves and sweaters since last
November. She and other members of Center Congregational Church on
Doors, Screens, Toolsets and
Broad Street are getting ready for the church Fair. Holiday fairs are more
than fund raisers, they are a New England tradition. Only a small number
of churches still have fairs that are entirely member driven, with congre-
Fireplace Accessories, Gas Logs,
gants knitting or gathering in small groups. Center Church has NO VEN-
DORS! The crafters have been creating home made specialties every
and new innovative products to
save you money like our Folding
Monday night or Tuesday morning since July, under the expert supervision
of Pauline Blakeslee. The kitchen crew headed by Ardene Courchesne and
Ginny Forman have been trying new coffee cake recipes all summer, and
have finally found an excellent one to offer from the Kitchen. Yes, the apple
peelers are ready to work to insure the aromas from the kitchen Fair day are Panel to save you heat when you
are not using your fireplace. No
delightful.
Pat Kenney and Pauline Blakeslee have been co chairs of the fair for many
years. Their enthusiasm has bought this New England tradition to a true art
form. Our church fair allows our community a chance to know our congre-
gants and to experience our warm fellowship. The proceeds from the fair matter what you need for your
fireplace..you’ll find it! Feel free
help to fund activities and restoration of the church.
Stop by and share the comfy atmosphere of a true old-fashioned New
England Church Fair: Tables of baked goods, crafts, a teacup auction,
unique basket raffle, Vermont cheese, pecans, caramel corn and our famous
Cookie Walk will fill the main room. Down stairs you'll find the ever pop- to stop by and browse.
ular tag sale and used books. Face painting and tattoos are among the
favorite children's events. You’ll discover elegance and affordablity!
Page 26 November 2008

Optimism and humor are the grease and glue of life. Crystal Bed Therapy
Without both of them we would never have survived our Advertorial by Lisa Zola
captivity.- Philip Butler, Vietnam POW I recently had the opportunity to go to Brasil to see a Healer by the name of John of God, or Medium Joao,
as he is known as in Brasil. What was supposed to be a 3 week visit, ended up turning into 3 months…the
You are what you think. You are what you go for. You things I saw happening there were just utterly amazing. In Truth, the things I saw happening there were no
are what you do! less than Miracles.
One of the things Medium Joao would prescribe for many people who came to see him, was a Crystal
Celebrations Bed treatment. Often times this was done to help prepare a person for an "Intervention" since it was consid-
ered to be instrumental in the cleansing of someone's energy or help to re-balance a person's energy field.
During my stay in Abadiania I experienced several Crystal Bed treatments for myself. It was such an
incredible feeling that I began to think about having a Crystal Bed in my Practice for other people to expe-
rience. With the Blessings of Medium Joao, I am now privileged and honored to have a Crystal Bed in my
Nutrition Center.
Crystal bed therapy is a safe, non-invasive healing modality that helps to cleanse, open, balance, and
recharge the seven major chakra energy centers of the body. The use of quartz crystals to enhance physical,
mental and spiritual healing is based on the premise that crystals possess powerful energy that can positive-
ly affect imbalances in the human energy field and thus promote health and well being. A person lies fully
clothed on a massage table with his/her eyes covered as seven colored lights pulsate through quartz crystals
which are directed at the chakras. Energy is channeled through the crystals to each of the chakras, cleans-
ing and re-balancing them during a session.
Having a crystal bed session serves to act as a catalyst to jump start one's own natural healing potential
and desire to achieve a state of equanimity. Each experience is unique and specific to an individual's own
condition, needs and level of self awareness. Some of the results people have expressed include:

An increased sense of serenity, inner peace and harmony


A feeling of more energy, sense of health and well being
Happy Turkey Day to Momma, Papa, the Grandmas & Grandpas and every- An increase in mental clarity
one! Hugs and kisses, Hunter and Cole A greater insight into their circumstances and life path
A deeper spiritual understanding of themselves
An emotional release
A reduction of stress and pain
A greater understanding of the causes of their illnesses or dis-ease
In order to have a better understanding of how and why Crystal Therapy works it is important to know a
little more about what the chakras are. Chakras are spinning vortexes of energy in our body that transform
universal life energy into various frequencies our subtle energy system uses to keep us healthy. The body
has seven major chakras which are aligned in an ascending column from the base of the spine to the top of
the head. Each chakra is connected with a specific color as well as to specific organs and glands and is
thought to vitalize the energy fields of the physical, emotional and spiritual bodies.

Chakra System
1 ~ Red ~ Root
Security and stability, survival, courage, self confidence, physical body support, ability to provide for life's
necessities
2 ~ Orange ~ Sacrum
Creativity, sexuality, emotion, power and control
3 ~ Yellow ~ Solar Plexus
Self power and esteem, energy, assimilation and digestion
4 ~ Green ~ Heart
Forgiveness, compassion, equilibrium and well-being, hope, love
5 ~ Blue ~ Throat
Truth, honesty, communication and growth, ability to choose, strength of will
6 ~ Indigo ~ Third Eye
Intuition, openness to self-evaluation, emotional intelligence, new ideas
7 ~ Violet ~ Crown
Master Chakra, seat of consciousness, divine connection "I Am" Spirit, ability to trust life, ethics and
courage

Country Harvest
About Quartz Crystals
Quartz crystals are known for their healing effects. Experiments have been conducted in order to examine
their healing properties and have shown that a precisely cut quartz crystal produces a constant vibration
At harvest time in the country, ripe stalks of gold- equal to the same frequency as water in its purest state. In addition, moving water will pick up the vibration
from the crystal through resonant interaction and this transferred charge will restructure the water.
en wheat wave in the fields, and wildflowers peek Furthermore, the molecular patterns of water can be modified with the immersion of quartz crystals.
up here and there. This glorious candle center- Since the human body is composed of approximately 70% water, this may help to explain the healing
capacity of quartz crystals. The well organized vibration resonating from the crystals helps to organize the
piece features fresh flowers, natural wheat and water in our tissues and cells producing a healthy state.
fall leaves and is a lovely choice for Thanksgiving. A quartz crystal is known as the "Stone of Power" and is frequently referred to as the "Master Healer."
It is the most versatile healing stone among the crystals and is said to help amplify energy or intention, pro-
tect against negativity, attune to your higher Self,
and relieve pain.
Come try a Crystal Bed session and feel for yourself how amazing it is!

Crystal Bed Therapy


30 minute session…………$25
60 minute session…………$50

For more information please contact Lisa at (203) 269-2TLC (2852) or visit
www.tlclisazola.com
Crystal Bed Therapy is not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment.

LGBTQI Survivors of Sexual Violence


Women and Families Center Sexual Assault Crisis Service provides short term supportive counseling ser-
vices to residents of Meriden, Wallingford and Cheshire, Middlesex County and Greater New Haven
County. Support groups for individuals who identify as LGBTQI and have been effected by sexual violence
will begin late fall 2008 at the New Haven Gay and Lesbian Community Center. Survivors, who attend

Rose Flowers and participate in these groups, will have the opportunity to talk about their experiences with peers and
knowledgeable, caring facilitators to assist their healing. You don't have to go through this alone. Call Kim

and Gifts @ (203) 389 5010 for more information. All services are free and confidential.

Gifts, Gourmet Baskets and of course our Military Whist Card Party at Temple B'nai Abraham!
famous Flowers Come and learn the easy game of Military Whist and enjoy a night out with friends at Temple B'nai
Abraham's Military Whist Card Party on Saturday November 15th at 7:00 p.m. Play cards, win prizes, and
232 West Main Street in Meriden enjoy refreshments. Bring a partner or a group (4 people to a table.) Temple B'nai Abraham is located at
203-235-5759 www.roseflowersgifts.com 127 East Main Street in Meriden. Admission is $10 per person. A raffle will be held. Please call 235-2581
by November 12th to reserve a table.
Delivery to all of Central Connecticut
Page 27 November 2008
Wallingford Middle School Students Win Statewide Connecticut Veterans Day Just a line to say I'm living,
Parade Essay Contest Special Ceremony at Conn. State Capitol on Monday, That I'm not among the dead,
October 27 at 4 p.m. Though I'm getting more forgetful,
First Place Student Essay Contest And more mixed up in the head.
For, sometimes I can't remember,
Why Should We Honor Veterans?
When I stand at the foot of stairs,
Lexie Farkash, 8th grade
If I must go up for something,
Holy Trinity School CCD Or I've just come down from there.
Dag Hammarskjold Middle School And before the frig. so often,
"Nooo!" "Bam!" "Boom!" The moans of the dying and shrieks of snipers pollutes the air. Thousands, nay, millions My poor mind is filled with doubt,
have given up their lives, or perhaps their families, houses, and sometimes their sanity. We, as a country, have those Have I just put food away or,
men & women to thank for the free country we live in today. Have I come to take some out?
So very many people have given up everything. They don't have their comfy, soft beds from Sleepy's® the privi- And there's times when it is dark out,
lege of being able to get up in the night to check on their sleeping newborn, or go & stop at McDonalds on the way With my night cap on my head,
home from work. These people are so selfless that they would willingly give up their lives in order for the rest of the I don't know if I'm retiring,
USA to live our lives. Or just getting out of bed.
So, if it's my turn to write you,
Vietnam, WW II, the Civil War, etc. If we didn't have men & women willing to sacrifice their lives for us, where
There's no need in getting sore,
would our country, maybe even the rest of the world, be today? WW I, the Revolutionary War, Iraq. All of these have
I may think that I have written,
been terrible, bloody & devastating. All the people who have died in these deserve to be mentioned. Their lives, fam- And don't want to be a bore
ily, sanity. Shouldn't we give one day, ONE day out of 365 to them? A day honoring them isn't much compared to the So remember ---- I do love you,
crippling pain - physical, mental, or both - that all these millions of men & women went through? And I wish that you were here,
Why should we honor veterans on Veterans' Day? Perhaps the fact that we owe our lives to them will convince But now, it's nearly mail time
you. So I must say "good-bye", dear.
There I stood beside the mail box,
Runner Up Student Essay Contest With a face so very red,
"Why Should We Honor Veterans?" Instead of mailing you my letter,
Cora Mandy, 8th grade I had opened it instead.
Submitted by Donna Salvato, Written by Myron Zillman of Meriden
Holy Trinity School CCD
at age 99, who has since passed away.
Dag Hammarskjold Middle School
Wallingford, Conn. MidState's "Family Night"
"Extra, extra! Read all about it! Seventeen killed and fifteen wounded in a street bombing!" Everyday we hear sto- MidState's "Family Night" teaches the whole family how to talk about cancer
ries similar to this on the news. Who are these people? They are veterans of war. MidState Medical Center invites you to attend its annual "Family Night."
Every day as Americans, we take for granted rights that were given to us; rights that veterans have fought for. How Through fun games and creative activities, the whole family will have a
brave and unselfish are those who risk their lives to keep millions of others free? I know I would not be able to com- chance to talk about cancer in a safe, supportive setting. Each specially
mit to such an honorable act. These veterans lose their lives for me, for you, and for everyone in this room. On top of designed workshop gently encourages children to disclose how cancer has
all that, they do it willingly. affected their lives, while learning coping strategies. Parents can have their
Many veterans left the country for months or years at a time to fight. Most were only able to communicate to fami- questions answered and learn skills for talking with their children.
ly members through letters. Some veterans couldn't even tell their families where they were stationed. Can you imag- This free workshop is open to parents or caregivers with cancer, their part-
ners, and their children, ages 5-12.
ine that? What if you couldn't see your mom, dad, son or daughter and not know if they were ok?
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2008 Time: 6-8 p.m. (Pizza dinner provided)
Veterans of war often have a price to pay. Whether it be a scar or a lost arm, it is something they have to live with
Location: MidState Medical Center, Horwitz Conference Center 435 Lewis
for the rest of their lives. However, they are the ones who brought honor and peace to this country. Avenue Meriden, CT
America has a lot to be thankful for. These veterans have fought tirelessly to 'let freedom ring.' They have risked Pre-registration is required by calling 203-694-8669.
their lives for you and for me which is more than I'll ever be able to do. They left their homes; their families to go This program is made possible with cooperation from the Harold Leever
abroad and fight. These veterans have risked so much for our country. The absolute least we could do is give them Regional Cancer Center and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
the honor and gratification they deserve. For these reasons and many more, our veterans should forever be honored.

National Adoption Month Celebration


November 16th The Most Holy Trinity Church will be celebrating National
Adoption Month at their 9:00am Mass. Families are invited to celebrate the
mass with the Options For Adoption Support Group. Special mention will be
made to celebrate the families touched by adoption. Holiday Tree & Item Display
We know nothing about motivation. All we can do is write books
about it. - Peter F. Drucker Silent Auction
Saturday, November 15, through
Monday, December 15, 2008
Trees will be on display at all Events at the Center
Tradition...Style...Class Come out and see this beautiful display of
trees, wreaths, and centerpieces donated by
local businesses and non-profit organiza-
tions all over the City of Meriden. Bid on
your favorite item for yourself or a special
gift for the Holidays, if you have the win-
ning bid items from the Holiday
Auction can be picked up on Dec. 15th
& 16th. Come and view the display
just to get into the Holiday spirit and
bring some friends!!! Support your
local non-profit by bidding on their
tree, wreath or centerpiece. They
get half of the proceeds that there
GIONFRIDDO’S item brings in...
There is no admission fee to view the
Fine Clothing for Men trees.....Center will be open daily
Viewing times are Nov. 28th through
610 West Main Street, Meriden 203.238.3677 Dec. 3rd 11am to 7pm for viewing. All
Suits, Shirts, Sweaters, Custom Tailoring, Professional other days please call for times.
Alterations & Imported Italian Sportswear 175 East Main Street in
Meriden 203.639.2856
www.curtisculturalcenter.org
Page 28 November 2008

Wallingford Public Library: Club will meet on November 12th at 7:30 p.m. to discuss the novel Wildwood Dancing
Our Shelves are Full of Thanksgiving Traditions by Juliet Marillier. The club will meet again on December 3rd to discuss Meg Cabot's
book Jinx. The Mother Daughter Book Club is a group composed of teen girls and their
Beth Devlin - Wallingford Public Library Director mothers or other adult female friends who meet monthly to discuss young adult books.
Jalapeno-cranberry relish anyone? If you are finding the giblet gravy and stuffing, green Storytimes, Chess Club, Family Night, and Homework Help are a few of the ongoing
bean casserole and candied sweet potatoes are lacking inspiration this year, why not head programs featured by our Children's Department. This month additional children's pro-
over to the stacks at the Wallingford Public Library and see what's cooking. Head to gramming includes a Thanksgiving Craft. Create a cute turkey pin out of polymer clay to
641.5 and start browsing. If you are a first time turkey roaster, or just need to refresh you wear on Thanksgiving or any time of the year you want to celebrate the turkey! This free
turkey culinary skills, you might want to check out 641.6659Butterball and take a look at program will take place November 8th at 2:00 p.m. and is open to children 8 to 12 years
"The Butterball Turkey Cookbook," expert advice from the experts! Our huge collection of age. Advance registration is required.
of cookbooks is extensive and inspirational for chefs of every skill level. In addition to More Computer Help!
cookbooks, ask a librarian where you can find information on Thanksgiving stories, The library is excited to announce an expansion in our computer tutoring program.
poems, history, and crafts. Celebrate your holiday traditions and make some new memo- Free one-on-one basic computer instruction will continue on Tuesday and Thursday
ries this year. afternoons from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. through November 20th. Additionally, one-hour ses-
Vintage Wallingford sions will be available on Thursday nights, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Friday mornings,
There is still time to purchase your tickets to the library's annual fundraiser, Vintage from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard
Wallingford! Please join us November 5th at Gouveia Vineyards from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 or mouse skills, word processing, internet searching, online job applications, or e-mail.
p.m. Appetizers, wine-tasting, beautiful Book Baskets, and friendly conversation await Instruction is free and open to the public, however due to high demand, sessions fill up
you. Tickets are $25.00 each and all proceeds benefit the Wallingford Public Library quickly. Call the library to sign up!
Association's Development Fund. Bring your friends and have an enjoyable evening with Learn to Search Online Databases
the library's board members, president, patrons and supporters. Learn how to use powerful online databases at our November computer class. Topics
Programs Galore include census and auction records, automobile repair procedures, business directories,
From authors to organizers and from itty bitty babies to seniors, the Wallingford Public encyclopedia entries, and newspaper, magazine, and journal articles. The class will run
Library has a variety of programs and services to be enjoyed by all. This month the from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 20th in the Board Room of the Main
library welcomes two authors for your enjoyment. First, best selling author, Lisa Lelas Library. Seating is limited and advance registration is required.
will present "Simple Steps to Getting Organized" on November 6th at 6:30 p.m. In addi- Your Library Card: don't leave home without it.
tion to being an author, Lisa is a professional organizer who will share her techniques for Most of us carry our up-to-date library cards in our wallets and can whip it out at a
tackling everyday clutter challenges as well as organizing for the upcoming holiday sea- moments' notice to borrow books, magazines, museum passes, cds, dvds and other mate-
son. Be sure to stop by the library and see our display of books on this subject. rials at any public library in the state. Your library card will enable you to access data-
The following week, mystery author, Karen E. Olson will be speaking about her latest bases from the library's website and use public access computers too. This is a timely
book in the Annie Seymour mystery series, "Shot Girl." Using New Haven as the setting reminder that your card is required for the above applications. Periodically you should
Ms. Olson features local restaurants and neighborhoods throughout all the Annie check the status of your card to be sure it has not expired. It takes only a few minutes to
Seymour books. Readers will enjoy the local flavor and sense of place evident in the renew it at the library's circulation desk. Be sure you are aware of any fines you might
many scrapes Annie gets into as a police reporter. Join us on November 13th at 7:00 p.m. have on your account. You can view your account information by logging onto
for this special author event. www.wallingford.lioninc.org. Always feel free to ask a staff member for help on any of
Also on November 13th, a special offering for parents, teachers and childcare the above or other aspects of our library technology.
providers, will feature Best Books for Kids, sponsored by the library and WECARE. Join Library Notes
the library's children's librarians for a discussion of why certain books are best for kids at The grand opening of the library expansion project was five months ago, but the work of
different ages and stages. Registration is required. the Building Committee goes on. New office furniture for the staff, additional tabletop
Price of movies got you down? The library offers two free movie events each month: outlets for laptop computers and a new public access catalog table have appeared in the
Cinema Club and Family Movie Night. Cinema Club features classic films geared for last month. One of the last phases of any project is signage, and the library is no excep-
mature audiences who are interested in viewing and discussing a film. This month tion. In September the Committee awarded the bid for interior and exterior signs to
Gallipoli will be shown on November 6th at 6:30 p.m. Family Movie Night is scheduled Lauratano Signs of Terryville, CT. Delivery is expected this month. The other major con-
for November 20th at 6:30 p.m. and will feature the film Wall-E. (Rated G). Please call struction activity will be the upgrade of the 1982 elevator to meet 2008 sprinkler and
the library for more information. emergency standards. These improvements will unfortunately mean that the elevator will
Calling all Teens: the results are in! This year's Top Ten Favorite Books are: be out of service for several days, probably in late November or early December. During
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer those days, handicapped access will be through the front door only.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling The mission of the Wallingford Public Library is to acquire, organize and make avail-
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney able books and other resources for the educational, informational, recreational, and inspi-
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead rational needs of the entire Wallingford Community. Library locations and hours are as
Maximum Ride: Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports by James Patterson follows: Main Library, 200 North Main Street, Monday through Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 9:00
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare p.m. and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Yalesville Branch located at 400 Church
The Sweet Far Thing by Libba Bray Street, is open on Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from
Extras by Scott Westerfeld 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please note the libraries will be closed on Tuesday, November
Before I Die by Jenny Downham 11th in observance of Veteran's Day and Thursday and Friday, November 27th and 28th
Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson in observance of Thanksgiving. For more information on any of the above information
Thank you to all Wallingford Teens who participated in the Teen's Top 10 voting this and/or events, please call the library at 203-265-6754 or email
year. More than 8,000 teens voted around the country. bdevlin@lioninc.org.
More for Teens: it's time to dance! November 12th at 6:00 p.m., the library will be
hosting a Nintendo Wii Dance Dance Revolution Tournament. All teens are welcome to We will speed the day when all of God's children, black men and white
come and strut their stuff and possibly win a prize. Be sure to wear your dancing socks! men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join
Love Anime and /or Manga? Come to the library's Anime/Manga Swap on Tuesday, hands and sing ...Free at last, Free at last, Thank God Almighty, I'm free at
November 18th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. All teens welcome. The Mother-Daughter Book last. - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Nobody is stronger, nobody is weaker than someone who came back.
There is nothing you can do to such a person because whatever you
could do is less than what has already been done to him. We have
already paid the price. - Elie Wiesel
Holiday Magic
J o h n A LW AY S O F F E R S t h e b e s t i n
Free Photo Form
S e r v i c e & I S A LW AY S H o n e s t ! It’s Free. It always has been!
Merry
Christmas!
Merry Christmas to the sweetest
Angel in the whole wide world!

I know Santa is going to be very


good to you since you are such
a good girl!
Love, Grandma and Grandpa
Message:
We have never doubted him and neither will you! ________________________________________
* Auto * Home * Business * Life ________________________________________

John J. Kovacs Insurance Agency Due to space - messages are limited to the 2 lines above.
Your Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Phone # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
208 Center Street, Wallingford
Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Office: (203) 269-2500 Signature: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
If you would like the photo returned to you, please enclose a self addressed stamped envelope! We do not publish
the last names of any photo submissions. Send to:The People’s Press, P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492
D e a d l i n e f o r o u r D e c e m b e r H o l i d a y C a r d I s s u e i s N o v. 2 5 t h .
Life Insurance underwritten by Nationwide Life Insurance Company Nationwide Mutual Insurance
Company and affiliated Companies Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215-2220
Page 29 November 2008

Time to Keep Turkey Tradition To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community
NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at
Join Lyman Hall High School's Food Service FCCLA in supporting C.R.E.W., the United Way and alumni soldiers 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com.
Come join us for a Traditional Family Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 6th, at Lyman Hall High Experience the power of positive for the readers and writers you will
School from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. The proceeds from this event will benefit the United Way, C.R.E.W. (Community
Revitalization Efforts of Wallingford) and the Lyman Hall Alumni Soldier Project. Family, Career and Community
sponsor as well as the return on your investment. Check out the
Leaders of America (FCCLA) is donating their time and spirit to these organizations. While helping others, this paper in its many forms at www.peoplespressnews.com!
fundraiser will also provide a fun experience for those who donate and choose to participate. We will be serving a
Thanksgiving meal including turkey, mashed potatoes, butternut squash, stuffing, cornbread, cranberry sauce and apple
crisp. For the children attending the event there will be numerous stations set up such as face painting, pumpkin deco- Gallery 53
rating, and a craft area. The children are also encouraged to dress up in traditional thanksgiving costumes to celebrate
the holiday festivities. Please join us if you or your business would like to support FCCLA's efforts.
The event will be held at Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford, CT on Thursday November 6th from 5 to 7 pm.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under. For more information or to purchase tickets you can con-
tact:
Project Manager: Jenn Sperlazza 203-294- 5369 in the Lyman Hall Culinary Classroom
Or e-mail sdrossopoulos@wallingford.k12.ct.us

Kiwanis Club of Wallingford & Ulbrich Boy's & Girls Club


Annual Turkey Trot Road Race
Mark the date! Sunday, November 23rd the Turkey Trot Annual 5 Mile Road Race. This year's race begins at
Stevens Elementary School, 18 Kondracki Lane, Wallingford. Registration begins at 11:00 and race begins at 1:00 pm.
Cost is $15 per runner (pre-registered)and includes long sleeved t- shirt. $20 day of race - does not include a t-shirt.
Pick up an entry form at Boys & Girls Club or the QChamber of Commerce office, 100 South Turnpike Rd or
online at www.bgcawallingford.org. For more information call 269-7535.

Flag Ceremony and Pasta Dinner Gallery 53 in open and available for events and celebrations. Space is suit-
Wallingford Emblem Club #289 will host a Flag Ceremony and Pasta Dinner on Thursday November 13th at the able for lectures, meetings, parties etc.
Wallingford Lodge of Elks-148 South Main St., Wallingford. Our beautiful environment with its ‘art’ bacground is inspiring for special
The Flag Ceremony consists of a presentation of "Flags with Narration" offered by Natalie Yasensky and a occasions.
Bicentennial Flag History Team. Included, also, will be the meaning of each fold made as the flag is retired. Visit us on the web at www.gallery53.org or call us at 203.235.5347. Our
Dinner will be served, starting at 6:PM for a donation of $5.00. Tickets may be obtained at the Lodge or at the director is Rita Sarris.
door.
The Flag Ceremony will follow dinner.
Should you have questions or concerns, I may be reached by phone at (203)467-5247 (East Haven, CT) or by e-mail at
pjvalente@snet.net. My sincere thanks for any assistance that you are able to render. Top Producers
Helping Hands Thrift Store is THANKFUL
for all the wonderful people who help support our cause
which is offering support to the Chrysalis Center for Women and Children of Domestic Violence as our main concern
as well as other organizations which the store offers assistance to. Without the donations and purchases made by the
public at the store we would not be able to assist all that are in need of help. The store will not turn anyone away if
they have proof of need at little or no cost to them. We have assisted the New Opportunities Organization, the Red
Cross, Childhood Dreams Organization, Masters Manor, even the Meriden Humane Society as well as individuals sent
to us due to unfortunate circumstances. The store does not receive any outside funding which is why we greatly appre-
ciate your donations so we can continue to remain open to help others. Please remember every time you donate items
(please in good working condition as it is an extra expense for the store to dispose of unuseable items) or make a pur-
chase you are helping someone else in need. Please tell your family and friends about our store, if you have not visited
Helping Hands Thrift Store which has 2 floors of merchandise we are located at 22 No. Turnpike Road in Wallingford.
Call (203) 284-0300 if more information is needed. Sorry we are not a consignment store and do not purchase items
from the public.
Please have a safe, healthy and happy Thanksgiving from the Helping Hands Thrift Store workers!
John Guerra, CEO of Guerra Realtors, is proud to announce the Top
Once, when my feet were bare, and I had not the means of obtaining shoes I came to the chief of Kufah in a state of Producing Real Estate Professionals for the Third Quarter of 2008. Top
much dejection, and saw there a man who had no feet. I returned thanks to God and acknowledged his mercies, and Seller's Agent is Carol Gargano. Top Buyer's Agent is Jean Lake. Top Sales
endured my want of shoes with patience - Sadi, The Gulistan Agents, that tied, are Laura Forcinelli, Carol Gargano and Maggie Griffin.
Top Relocation Producer is Paula Senna.

Registration Now
Taking Place!!
and take your pick from the apples, Adult, Young Artist
pears and more at our farm store. And Kinderartist
Classes.
Gift Certificates Available

EASEL WORKS
Creative Art Studio & Gallery
Open Tuesday-Friday 12pm-6pm Sat-Sun 10am-5pm Closed Mon.
294-1548
2 Quinnipiac Street, Wallingford
Page 30 November 2008
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events
Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at
What You Need To Know! www.wlfdseniorctr.com
VETERANS DAY PROGRAM on Monday, November 10, 11:00 AM Join us as we salute our veterans on
November 10, at 11:00 AM. The program will feature a keynote address, patriotic music by the Vintage Voices and
participation by local veterans groups. Come help us honor those who have served our nation.
WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP: ARTHRITIS & EXERCISE on Wednesday, November 12, 10:30 AM
Physical therapist Jeff Sederquist, a speaker for the Arthritis Foundation, will present a program on November 12, on
the benefits of exercise for persons coping with arthritis. Find out what kind of exercise can help minimize the effects
of arthritis. Please sign up in advance to attend this program which is sponsored by Westfield Care & Rehab Center.
Open to the public.
WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP: WHAT IS A HOSPITALIST? - AND WHY YOU SHOULD KNOW!
Wednesday, November 19, 10:00 AM - If you ever require hospitalization, you need to know what a hospitalist is.
MidState Medical Center introduced its Hospitalist Service in 2003, yet many people do not understand how the pro-
gram works. Join us on November 19, to hear Dr. Howard Dubin explain MidState's Hospitalist Program and why it is
important for you to know about it. Please sign up if you plan to attend. Open to the public.
GIFT WRAPPING SERVICE- Bring in your holiday gifts and let us gift wrap them for you! This service includes a
gift box, tissue, wrapping paper, bow and gift tag for just 50¢ for small and medium items, $1.00 for large items, and
$2.00 for extra large packages. Gift bags will also be available. This service will be offered November 19-21, 9:00 AM
to 2:00 PM, and then Monday through Wednesday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, November 24 through December 10. All
proceeds from this service will benefit the senior center's program account.
STATE Wii BOWLING TOURNAMENT - Friday, November 14, 10:00 AM HealthNet is sponsoring the statewide
Wii bowling tournament at the Wallingford Senior Center on November 14. Join us to watch the state's top virtual
bowlers in action! Refreshments will be served. Open to the public.
MOBILE MAMMOGRAPHY VAN - Monday, November 24 A mammogram is a vital step in a woman's overall
Bouquet Makers preventive health care. Early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer. The Yale New Haven Digital Mobile
The Wallingford Garden Club had a floral design workshop at the First Mammography Van will be at the Wallingford Senior Center on November 24 from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM. If you have
Baptist Church recently for their Womens Group. Materials were supplied not had your annual mammogram, call 688-6800 to schedule your appointment.
by Wallingford Garden Club members and Wade Elmer, vendor of Mollies
Flowers from the Wallingford Gardeners Market. Barbara Bruce demon- SOCIAL SERVICES
strated 5 different floral designs and bouquet packets were distributed to CONNECTICUT ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CEAP) 2008-2009 HEATING SEASON
each participant. Assisting Barbara Bruce were Clare Clark, Carole Appointments for assistance with Oil, Kerosene and Wood heat continue to be scheduled at the Wallingford Senior
Golitko, Ellie Tessmer, Marilyn Ollayos, and President Lillian Weaver. Center. Anyone 60 years of age and over is encouraged to apply. Income limits for a single person is $29,272.36 and
The Wallingford Garden Club is a member of the Federated Garden Clubs for a couple is $38,279.24. Asset limits also apply.
Applicants MUST bring two (2) photocopies of the following to the appointment:
of CT and National Garden Clubs, Inc.
1. Most recent checking, savings, CD, Annuity, IRA, stocks or bonds statements or any other financial information.
Photo: Carole Golitko handing out bouquet packets to participants.
2. Verification of Social Security benefits, Pension, dividend and/or interest income.
3. Four most recent pay stubs, if employed.
4. Rental Income: rent stub or copy of check deposited into bank account
People’s Press Crossword November 2008 5. Most recent utility bill.
Answers. Puzzle by Ruth Gordon. 6. Electric bill.
APPLICATIONS ARE TAKEN
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
To schedule an appointment, please call 265 7753.
ENERGY ASSISTANCE DATES WALLINGFORD SENIOR HOUSING - Applications will be completed on the
following dates and times. Please see your Community Room bulletin board for information on documents needed to
complete the application.
Wednesday, December 3
McKenna Court 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Southside Terrace 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Friday, December 5
John Savage Commons 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Eastside Terrace 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 9
McGuire Court 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
BENEFITS SCREENING Tuesday, November 18, 10-12 noon Only a few individuals age 60 and older have called
for Benefits QuickLINK, a private, free and confidential program which quickly screens your eligibility for these
available state and federal programs:
. Medicare: Savings, Prescription Drug coverage, & Rx Extra Help
. State Prescription Drug Assistance Programs
. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
. State Property Tax Relief/Rebates
. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
. Telephone Assistance (Link-up and Lifeline)
Supporting documents not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment: l.
Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity,
water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses note covered by health insurance). 3. Asset infor-
mation (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions.
Pre-registration required. Call now 265 7753 to schedule an appointment.
MEDICARE PROGRAMS and SOCIAL SECURITY
Tuesday, DECEMBER 9, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. It's that time of year again when decisions need to be made regarding
next year's Medicare. The Medicare RX Express will be at the Wallingford Senior Center to answer your questions
and assist you. If you have any questions, such as: Should I have traditional Medicare with a Supplemental or
Medigap policy? If so, which Medigap policy is right for me? Is a Medicare Advantage Plan (HMO) right for me?
Am I on the right Prescription Drug Program? Does the formulary list all of my medications? Am I eligible for
ConnPACE Prescription Drug Program? Am I eligible for the Medicare Savings Program which pays part or all of my
Medicare premium? If you have any of these questions or others, please call to schedule and appointment. Please
call 265-7753 to schedule.
Appointments are required and limited.
SOCIAL SECURITY: On the same day, someone will also be available to answer any questions you may have
about your Social Security. No Appointment is necessary.
DIABETES SUPPORT Wednesday, November 12, 1:00 p.m.
LOW VISION SUPPORT Friday, November 21, 10:15 a.m.

PARKINSON'S DISEASE SUPPORT Friday, November 21, 10:15 a.m.


AARP TAX AIDE: JOIN OUR VOLUNTEER TEAM!
The Connecticut AARP Tax-Aide program is seeking volunteers to provide one-on-one help in the preparation of CT
& Federal income tax returns. Computer literate volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome; training begins
in December. Tax counseling for the elderly is a free, confidential service offered to low and middle income people of
all ages, with special attention to those age 60 and over. Volunteers do not need to be an AARP member or retiree.
Interested persons should e-mail ctvoltaxaide@juno.com. Provide your name, address, and telephone number.
INCLEMENT WEATHER NOTICE
In the event of inclement weather, we urge you to watch WVIT-Channel 30, WTNH-Channel 8, or WFSB-TV Channel
3 for information on the cancellation of activities at the Wallingford Senior Center. If the Center should remain open
in questionable weather and you are unsure as to whether you should venture out, we urge you to consider your own
safety and well being and remain at home. We will make every effort to reschedule to a later date any event or activi-
ty that may have to be postponed.
THINKING ABOUT . . .
a donation or bequest? The Wallingford Senior Center (Wallingford Committee on Aging, Inc.) is recognized by the
IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) and all donations are both greatly appreciated and fully tax deductible.
Page 31 November 2008

Desperately Seeking Susan… or At Least People Like Her! PASTA SUPPER


By: Heather L. Stilson The Civitan Club of Meriden/Wallingford will hold their 14th annual
pasta supper to benefit the physically and mentally challenged youth and
In a time when our economy is faltering, our 401K's are plummeting, and our brains are continuously being battered adults in the area on Thursday, November 13th from 4:30 P.M. To 7:30
by political smear campaigns, it seems that everyone we encounter is feeling some sort of strain. I have noticed an P.M. at St. Joseph Church, West Main St. Meriden. Donation will be $7.00
increase in short tempers, poor manners and rude conduct virtually everywhere I go. It's enough to make one want to for adults, $3.00 for children 6 to 12, and children 5 PASTA SUPPER
hibernate in their own homes until we rise above this difficult time in our history. Unfortunately for most, this is not The Civitan Club of Meriden/Wallingford will hold their 14th annu-
an option. And, why miss out on all of the good things happening in this world? al pasta supper to benefit the physically and mentally challenged youth
My grandmother's primary goal for her children and grandchildren was always, "Be a good person." That's it. and adults in the area on Thursday, November 13th from 4:30 P.M. to
Simple, right? Well, okay, let's admit it; this isn't always easy, but I try to take it day by day. 7:30 P.M. at St. Joseph Church ,West Main St. Meriden. Donation will be
I woke up this morning and as usual set a personal goal for myself. Today, I was going to recognize one person $7.00 for adults, $3.00 for children 6 to 12, and children 5 years and
willing to rise above the now seemingly acceptable standards of society, and let them know I appreciated them. younger free. Tickets may be purchased at the door or from Elain
Sounds hokey, I know, but as I grow older, I realize that some of the hokiest things make life fun. Admittedly, though, Cariati Drauss at 630-9805.
I dragged myself out of bed with an "Eeyore" type outlook, believing that my goal for the day may be somewhat over-
ly-optimistic.
I rushed my children off to school and prepared for a hasty trip to the bank. Ugh. This task is no where near the
Winner of 10 Awards.
top of my list of things I consider "fun". I bit the bullet and made my way to the TD Banknorth located at 7 North
Turnpike Road in Wallingford. Rushing into the bank, I was met by the branch manager, welcoming me with a smile.
Huh? Not my usual experience in any public establishment, I can assure you! I was promptly called to the teller's
window with - you guessed it - another friendly bank employee. I finished my transaction, and was calmly interrupted
in the middle of my whirlwind retreat by the bank manager. She explained that she had just made a pot of coffee and
would be more than happy to get me a fresh cup for my ride to work. Again, HUH???? I felt like I had been trans-
ported back to Mayberry, USA. (Admit it folks, wouldn't that be great, at least for a little while?) I thanked her and
dazedly, made my way to my car.
If anyone has ever tried to pull into traffic, heading northbound from the parking lot of this bank, you know how
impossible it is to cross into two lanes of traffic. I waited patiently for the morning rush hour traffic, feeling fortified
by my pleasant bank experience, when not one - but TWO drivers attempted to let me out of the parking lot so that I
could merge with traffic. I know this sounds silly, and frankly a little pathetic that I would take notice of such small
acts, but how many of us are affected by drivers we will probably never see again? I don't know who these people
were, but if you are reading this, kudos to you for taking the time to be thoughtful!
I drove northbound and just before I got to work, I passed a vehicle in a passing zone. It should be noted that I
wasn't following too closely to her; I just wanted to pass her as she turned into the gas station. As I drove by, I real-
ized that she was graciously giving me the single-finger salute. I brushed it off - I wasn't going to let something so Wallingford Garden Club Wins Ten Awards.
small ruin my day. If this person might be you, I hope your day got better!
The Wallingford Garden Club won ten awards at the Federated Garden
Once I got to work, I called TD Banknorth to speak to the manager, who identified herself as Susan Dommu. Susan
has worked for TD Banknorth for 5 years and has been at this branch for a little over a year and a half. I wanted to let Clubs of Connecticut, Inc. Awards Luncheon at the Aqua Turf in Cheshire
Susan know how much I appreciated her Customer Service earlier that morning. It didn't take long before we struck on October 22nd.
up a conversation, Susan being forthcoming with her philosophy on Customer Service and her goals for this particular Five awards were presented to the club itself and five to individual mem-
bank branch. She chuckled good-naturedly when I told her how much her offer of coffee meant to me, saying "Well, bers. The lub received and Award of Excellence and a silver tray for main-
Heather, my goal is to provide that level of customer interaction to everyone, everyday." Now, I can tell you that I taining and improving three memorial gardens in Wallingford - the Town
tend to be a little cynical, but I assure you that Susan's approach is not something she learned in a management semi- Green Gazebo, an herb garden at the Historical Society and one at the
nar and it is obviously sincere. She commented further to say that the key to a successful business team is in the hir- Wallingford Day Care Center. It also rec. a second place award for its
ing. "You can teach the job to anyone, but you just can't teach niceness," states Susan. I ended the conversation by Publicity Press Book, which contains articles on the many activities of the
telling her that I wanted to put the spotlight on people who make a difference in this world by simply being respectful, club clipped from four area papers.
good-natured and NICE.
The club also was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for a brochure on
So, I'm writing this article in hopes that everyone who reads it will know that you can make a difference in this
world. No, offering a cup of coffee to someone or allowing someone to merge into traffic in front of you won't cure the summer Farmer’s Market and rec. tow certificates of appreciation for
cancer or solve the oil crisis. In the end, though, what matters most is that we all aspire to my Grandmother's advice: participating in the National Garden Club Awards Program this year.
Be a Good Person. My new goal in life is to do my best to recognize all of the good people out there. If you are one Barbara Bruce, vice-president of the Wallingford club, rec. a 3rd place
of them, know that you are appreciated even if your kindness is not always formally recognized. award for a Halloween floral design. Carol Golitko received a Certificate
As I write this, I am amazed that my goal for the day was so quickly and easily realized. I've been in a pleasant of Achievement for Garden Therapy. Carol also was the recipient of a
mood ever since - and maybe just a bit less cynical! I am going to continue looking for my everyday heroes and doing Penny Jarvis Scholarship. Sandy Parsons and Barabara Bruce redc. Love-
my best to recognize them. Until next month, then…Be Good. ly Garden Awards after visits to their gardens by members of the Federated
Garden Clubs.
CRAFT FAIR In the photo above Lillian Weaver - president of the club, second from left
HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PTO 200 HIGHLAND AVENUE WALLINGFORD, CT. 25TH ANNUAL
holds a silver tray awarded to the club by the Federated Garden club o
CRAFT FAIR SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2008 9 AM TO 3 PM FEATURING OVER 65 CRAFTERS REFRESH-
MENTS AVAILABLE INFORMATION CALL 203 (235-0195) Connecticut for its maintenance of three civic gardens. With her, left to
_____________________________________________________________________________________ right are some of the women who help maintain the gardens: Eileen Eccles,
Marilyn Ulizio, Helen Daney, Chris Walsh and Carolyn Heine.
CRAFT FAIR
The Nathan Hale School PTO will present it's 5th Annual Craft Fair on Friday, November 21st from 5:30 pm to 8:00

Filipek’s Kielbasa
pm at the school. Bring your family out for a great night of fun including dinner and shopping with our 25+ crafters!
The kids will love to visit with Santa, win prizes in the raffle, and end the night with a bag of goodies from our
Cookie Walk. A few spaces are still open! Interested crafters can contact Jennifer Day at 203-237-4775 ext 2 or by
email cricket0302@yahoo.com
You Can Taste The Difference!
This Month’s Special Below!

S A V E .50 P E R l b . o n o u r
famous Kielbasa
S A V E $1.00 P E R l b .
FOR 10 lbs. OR MORE!
With this ad - Expires 11/30/08
262 Elm St., Meriden 237-3488
Page 32 November 2008

Waist Management - A Community Challenge A Musing


Calling all Meriden residents and businesses! The Meriden Health By Ernie Larsen
Department has a mission for you, if you choose to accept it. It's called
"Waist Management" - we challenge you to not gain more than 5 pounds over As I'm sitting here, trying to figure out my new laptop, a signal tone goes off and a pop-up proclaims there is a news
the upcoming holiday season. Think you can do it? Know others that you can bulletin coming in. I just yesterday figured out how to set the computer to signal me when my homepage news
team up with? provider, MSNBC, publishes a piece in which I have indicated an interest; in this instance, a bulletin from the enter-
tainment world, the passing of the actor and philanthropist and as I knew him, the race car driver, P.L. Newman or Paul
A kick-off meeting for this program will be held on Wednesday,
Newman as he was most widely known. Not that we were on a first name basis by any means, my acquaintance with
November 5, from 6-7:30pm, at the Meriden Public Library, 105 Miller him was through a friend and fellow driver of his on the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) circuit. In fact I think
Street. Gather your team or "waist management buddy" and join us to learn P.L. was friendlier with my buddy's father than anyone, there were somewhat closer in age…..he preferred to be called
tips on how to keep the pounds off over the holidays. You'll be able to pick P.L. at the race course and the name painted on the door of his race car reflected that, P.L. Newman in silver lettering.
up your team packet, which includes a tape measure and nutrition and exer- I first met P.L. when I was 'pitting' (helping him get ready for the race, sort of a glorified 'gofer') for my friend who
cise tips, the night of the meeting. Packets will also be available up until drove in the Formula Ford division of the SCCA, it was at Thompson Raceway, in Northeastern Connecticut; the car
Thanksgiving. For more information on this program please call the Health was an open wheel model, with a 1600cc Ford Pinto engine We were sitting around, after prepping the race car and in
Department's Community Health Education office at 630-4238. drives this Chevy Suburban trailing a Datsun 510. The fellow driving was P.L.'s crew, sort of what I was to my friend,
however I did find out he was a mechanical engineer and could take apart an engine with his eyes closed, so to speak.
He and Art, my buddy, exchanged pleasantries and we pitched in to get the race car off the trailer. I had no idea whose
car it was, everyone helped everyone else in the garage area - it wasn't until they got onto the track that it was every
man to himself.
About a half hour later in drives Paul Newman - there was a definite murmuring from those outside the pits which
my friend told me happened every time he showed up. There were a bunch of women who regularly came to the track
with the express purpose to see P.L. The cameras were out and clicking. Newman walked over, exchanged pleasantries
and sat down with Art's father and had a bit of a conversation while his guy prepped his car. All this while the gaggle
of fans took what must have been hundreds of photos. He then got up and spoke with Art and myself while the film ran
through the cameras…he said all these people will get their photos back next week and wonder who the other guys are
hanging with Paul Newman….so the races began and neither P.L. or my driver Art placed, i.e. Finishing in the first 3
positions in their respective divisions. As they both remarked there was always next week.
Well, the next time I was in P.L.'s company was three weeks later at Lime Rock race track in Sharon, CT - in the
Northwest corner of the state - P.L.'s back yard, well a lot closer to his home than Thompson. Which meant a lot more
fans - many whom had purchased passes giving them access to the pits. Again, it was a banner day for Kodak, the film
was burning up the cameras and once again my buddy, his father and Newman were in lots of photos. In fact a few
people had brought prints for Newman to sign which he willingly did until he had to prep for the race. He remembered
me from Thompson and later that season I was in his company a couple of more times. He spoke very quietly, never
seemed to get flustered and had a good word for everyone in his presence. I thought then that his real love was auto
racing and this turned out to be true, he bought into an Indy team and also raced in the CanAm series which was some-
what similar to SCCA on a much more sophisticated level. Whatever he did in racing he certainly immersed himself
with all genres of the sport and teaming up with Carl Haas produced more Indy league champions that he ever thought
was possible.
Along with his racing, which was a very lucrative financially, plus the monies he earned during his Oscar winning
acting career Newman decided to share his wealth with the less fortunate and focused his philanthropy on children. He
founded the Hole in the Wall Camp for seriously ill children. The first camp was located in Ashford, CT and since its
inception in 1988 12 more camps have sprung up all over the US and in several foreign locations. In that time over
140,000 children have taken part in the camps which children with illnesses which would normally restrict them from a
summer camp type atmosphere. P.L. was extremely proud of this accomplishment and visited the camps regularly.
And then there was Newman's Own. A line of food products he and his daughter Nell originated and from which all
We deliver to schools, churches, institutions, clubs, businesses and offices for FREE! the profits are donated to charity; as most entrepreneurial enterprises he started out small with a line of salad dressings,
which he touted as being made with natural materials, organic, over the years the sales of Newman's Own Organics
have generated enough profit for the company to donate over $180,000,000 (one hundred eighty million dollars) to
charity. Newman was that type of guy - one to share his monetary and mental wealth with others, he often counseled
young drivers and gave invaluable tips on the finite details of the sport and as a founder of the Westport Playhouse pro-
vided a platform for young thespians to fine tune their craft. And to continue his philanthropy he took it upon himself
to provide for children of all ages contributing to many charities with his Hole in the Wall Gang taking a leading role in
his generosity.
With his passing, Paul Newman leaves a legacy that will not be duplicated in our lifetime - the unselfish generosity
of a true gentleman who was approachable, genuine and a regular guy. I'll never forget my 'knowing' him as I did.
The theme of this issue was to talk about what we are thankful for this time of year - I think we all should be thank-
ful for the unselfish largesse of Paul P.L. Newman - so long P.L you were one of a kind.

What I’m Thankful For...


By Carol Golitko
The deadline for our Dec. issue I have always felt Thankful for what ever I have.My wonderful family,husband children & grandchildren.But
Sometimes someone comes along in your life that makes you a differant person.I met someone like that about 5 years
is Nov. 28th for all Stories, ago.She`s the sister I lost to cancer over 15years ago.She`s my girlfriend(how important is that!)My mentor way too
much to mention.She`s made me more aware of my surroundings & this earth & what it has to offer,I always believed
Events, Photos and MORE! in it but now I practice more of being it`s stewart.Best of all she`s my friend accepts me for who I am.I love Her>
Thanks Ellie.
If you have an upcoming event
Upcoming Events from Revitalized Beth Israel Community
in December send it in - it would Beth Israel Synagogue in Wallingford is delighted to present its Fall events.
be our honor to help you AND Nov. 7th will be a special service designed to help members of our congregation and the community who are not com-
pletely comfortable with a Friday night service. Our Rabbinical Intern, Bruce Alpert will take this opportunity to
we will send out each week’s explain the "whys" of the service: why we say a particular prayer and why we say it when we do. This will be a very
informative service.
events in our weekly email A small, historic, unaffiliated conservative congregation, Beth Israel, founded in 1901, is undergoing a renaissance.
A dedicated team of congregation members has been involved for over two years with the national STAR Synagogue
newsletter to our on-line sub- initiative, injecting new energy and focus into the congregation. Programming highlights the direction the Congregation
is moving towards, encompassing all the elements of Judaism - prayer, learning and gathering - into fun filled events.
scribers to give you even more Beth Israel warmly welcomes all Jewish individuals and families, interfaith and non-traditional.
For more information, please contact Alida Cella at 949-8656, or alidacella@hotmail.com. Beth Israel has also
exposure. Sign launched a brand new website - www.bethisraelwallingford.org.
up - it’s free! Go to
www.peoplespressnews.com Holiday Community Dinner:
and click subsribe! “GENEROSITY Makes It Happen”
A traditional holiday dinner will be enjoyed be everyone at the 27th annual holiday dinners, noon to 2:00 PM
There are several ways to submit: Thanksgiving and Christmas Day at the First Congregational Church, 23 South Main St., Wallingford. The dinner,
Email: andy@peoplespressnews.com sponsored by Parents & Kids Foundation, Inc. and the church, is free and open to all who want to spend the day with
others. Transportation will be provided to those needing rides. Meals and visits will also be delivered to the home-
Web: www.peoplespressnews.com bound. Food baskets are sent out ahead of time.
These dinners happen every Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter and are fully dependent on donations of food, time
Fax to: 203.294.8808 and money to be successful. In addition to the dinner at the church, baskets will be sent out ahead of time to families
in Wallingford, Meriden and Cheshire. Meals and visits are also delivered to the homebound who are unable to partici-
Mail: The People’s Press pate in the dinners at the church.
P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 At Christmas, we "adopt" many children and adults, some who are differently abled, those who are alone, nursing
home residents without family and other entire families as we learn of their particular circumstances. We provide them
For Advertising call with food, clothes and gifts. We write cards and send letters to cheer people. It is incredible to be part of this effort
203.235.9333 and to see all the good that comes when people give and share.
As this effort has become so large, it is necessary for us to collect food and other items as early as possible. We
The People’s Press is now available to down- start cooking three days before Thanksgiving and need folks who can offer their time and help with that as well. We
load in PDF form. Save it, Read it and Print are in need of everything! Individuals and businesses that would like to volunteer their time, talents, food, gifts, money
it. We are always finding new ways to serve or services are encouraged to call Nancy Freyberg at Parents & Kids Foundation, Inc., 284-8299. There will be
an organizational meeting Saturday 10-11:30am at the First Congregational Church kitchen area. Come
your needs because YOU matter most to us! and find out how you can be involved. Together we can do so much for so many.
Page 33 November 2008

November is Lung Cancer Awareness "I've fallen and I can't get up!"
by Barbara Sherburne
Month/Great American Smoke-Out barndt49@yahoo.com
Did you know: Remember that ad from 1989 with Mrs. Fletcher? I do. We all thought it was kind of funny when it came out on TV.
" November 20th is designated as "Smoke Free" day. Set your calendar and Lots of people made fun of Mrs. Fletcher, and we all laughed. The phrase stuck around for years in various permuta-
prepare to smell the roses! tions. It was on lots of TV shows.
" Smoking accounts for at least 30% of all cancer deaths. We are now approaching yet another Thanksgiving Day in November, November 27th actually. I think many of us,
" Over 80% of adult smokers started smoking before they were 18. I'll include myself here, think we have fallen and are having a rather hard time getting up. It is not a laughing matter at
" 25% of high school students reported that they had their first cigarette by this point. I am only 58 (59 in another month), so I am fortunate that I did not experience the time of the Great
age 13. Depression, as my mother did. I have a great deal to be thankful for, but some days are tough. We all have them, and
" Each year about 3,000 nonsmoking adults die of lung cancer as a result of some worse than others, to be sure.
secondhand smoke. I think I have gone through the roughest times people go through, losing my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles,
cousins, siblings, and close friends. Thankfully, I have never lost a child. That is a travesty. I thank God I did not go
" If you smoke 1 pack of cigarettes a day for 1 year, it cost over $2,500!
through that. I have lost a lot of pets I cared for dearly, and all the animal lovers who are reading this will understand
" Within 20 minutes of quitting your blood pressure and pulse rate return to what a tremendous loss a pet's life can be. I have experienced this kind of sorrow many times.
normal; within 24 hours your risk of a heart attack starts to drop; within 2 I may not have used these precise words, "I've fallen and I can't get up," but I have used similar phrases. I have said
days your sense of smell and taste improve; and immediately upon quitting things like, "I don't know how I can go on." "I don't know why I am here." "I don't know what the purpose of life is
you'll start to save money. anymore."
Millions of baby boomers are approaching retirement age. Make a choice Life is tough, and there is no getting around that. But life is also good. Where would I be if I were not here in the
today to enjoy your retirement, pledge to live a healthier life, quit smoking. United States of America, a country I hold dearly to my heart? I am very grateful to be a citizen here, and I played no
For information: part in it. My forefathers did, thankfully. They came from Germany and settled in Pennsylvania, and I am extremely
Wallingford Health Dept. at 294-2065 or the American Cancer Society at 1- grateful for that. God knows where I would be if they had not come to this great land!
800-ACS-2345 The irony of this phrase that was used in a commercial almost 20 years ago is that we can get up. We can stand up
or CT Quit Line at 1-866-363-4224; American Lung Association 1-800- and do wonderful things. We have so much to be thankful for in this country, and we oftentimes take it for granted. We
LUNG-USA worry about things like the price at the gas pump, and yet Europe was ahead of our gas prices years and years ago.
How much, really, has a gallon of milk gone up in 30 years compared to a gallon of gasoline? Not much. Not really.
What about the price of a dozen eggs? Not much. Not really.
I am thankful for Thanksgiving, which began in 1621 with the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag Indians in
Massachusetts. It was celebrated many times over the ensuing years, but it was not until 1941 when President Roosevelt
Tanzania Trails signed a bill on the 26th of November (my birthday) that it became an official yearly celebration on the fourth Thursday
of November.
We can’t pass up another African We need to put a positive spin on this phrase "I've fallen and I can't get up," and instead say something like, "I may
safari this winter, and have have fallen, but I will get up, and I will be better for it." I am thankful for this country and this land. On this
designed our 2009 TANZANIAN Thanksgiving Day I will say a prayer to God and express my thanks for the gift of living here. There is no better place
TREASURE TROVE. Visit Arusha, on earth. There is no place like home.
Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti
National Park, Lake Ndutu and
Lake Manyara. If this is a first, you
Holiday Meal Food Safety Tips
owe it to yourself. It is a MUST! Holidays are here! And with the holidays comes food, lots of food. High protein, high moisture foods such as turkey
Call for brochure! present the potential for a foodborne illness. Follow the "turkey basics" for a safe holiday.
January 31 - February 11, 2009
105 Hanover Street in Meriden 1. Keep all refrigerated foods cold; thaw frozen food in the refrigerator not on the kitchen counter. Generally, it takes
24 hours per 5 pounds of turkey to thaw in the refrigerator. If you don't have enough time, thaw under running water
203.634.3500 1.800.624.3516
for about 30 minutes per pound.
Email: ktwinc@aol.com 2. Cook a fresh turkey within 2 days of purchase.
www.kingtravelways.com 3. If you are cooking a stuffed turkey, mix the ingredients just before it goes in the turkey and stuff loosely, about 3/4
cup per pound of turkey.
Lose Weight...Win $$$$! 4. Always use a thermometer when cooking, do not rely on time alone to know when your meal is ready. The bird is
done when it reaches 180 degrees F in the innermost thigh and a stuffed bird should reach 165 degrees in the center of
the stuffing. Remember that a stuffed bird takes longer to cook.
Great 6 week program advising proper 5. Set the oven temperature no lower than 325 degrees F.
nutrition and exercise. What about all those leftovers? Always reheat to 165 degrees F. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers promptly in small
shallow containers and wrap tightly. How long should you keep your leftovers?
Cash Prize to the "Biggest Loser"! Refrigerator:
Cooked turkey 3-4 days
Frozen:
Turkey slices/pieces 4 mos
Stuffing and gravy 1-2 days Turkey with gray 6 mos.
Get a head start on your New Year other dishes 3-4 days Stuffing 1 mo.
You should also have plenty of fresh cut vegetables on hand for those in-between meal munchies. Try to incorporate
Resolution! For info or to register... some holiday spirit that doesn't focus on food. Why not take a walk after the meal before the pie. You can have a safe
Contact Kathy 1-888-493-1069 and healthy holiday! Put a gift certificate to a local gym on your Christmas wish list or a new pair of sneakers.
For more information contact the Wallingford Health Dept at 294-2065 or the toll free USDA Meat and Poultry
Hotline at 1-800-535-4555. We also have FREE magnets with Safe Food Temperatures so you won't forget. Stop by
Wallingford Town hall, rm. 215 today.

A message from the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce:


Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don't fight them. Just find a different way to
stand. -Oprah Winfrey

networking promotion education leadership


While these current times are challenging for many of us both personally and professionally, let us help each other find
a different way to stand - whether it be attending a networking event for the first time, or promoting your business
using vehicles offered through the Greater Meriden Chamber, or by educating you and/or your staff by attending a
workshop or SCORE session. We are leading businesses to use the resources available through membership in our pro-
fessional organization.
The four principles of networking, promotion, education, and leadership are the basis of the plan of work for the
Now is the time to book Ruth for all of Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce. We will continue to highlight one each month so that readers may become
your Holiday and New Year’s Parties & Events. more aware of what the Greater Meriden Chamber is doing for its members and the communities that it serves. Let's
begin with education…
The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce understands the importance of lifelong learning. Our Chamber supports
the educational initiatives that run the spectrum from pre-K through 12th grade; college; professional development
opportunities; adult education and more. We are involved in the education of our members and the education of
younger students in our community…they are our future! We have an Education Committee that meets monthly and
members include representatives from Platt, Maloney & Wilcox in addition to Middlesex Community College & Post
University along with several individuals representing the business community. We help to make and sustain connec-
tions between schools and businesses, whether it be suggesting speakers for classes, participating in career fairs or sup-
porting education initiatives. And, we offer educational programming for members to help members make better busi-
ness decisions.
As an added value to our members, the close to 700 businesses that make up the Greater Meriden Chamber, we are
partnering with SCORE and are offering free business counseling at the Chamber offices every 2nd Thursday of the
month beginning November 13th - call for an appointment. Any small business can participate. If you are considering
starting your own business, have a small business, are ready to expand, need advice or resources, we can help you.
Start-ups are encouraged to attend SCORE's Pre-Business Workshop prior to scheduling a counseling session.
And, on Tuesday, Nov. 18th, we will be holding a "Sun-Up Seminar": Building a Winning Business in a Tough
Economy, from 7:30-8:45 a.m. at the Chamber: The fee is $5 per person and will include continental fare and the pre-
sentation by Action Coach, Bob Kademian.
To strengthen your current educational programs for employees in your organization, or to help develop the minds of
students in our communities, the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is here. We have the connections to make
our communities better places to live, work, learn and play! Call us at 203.235.7901 or visit
www.meridenchamber.com

Stuffed Cabbage and home style KOLBASZ


Hungarian Community Club of Wallingford is accepting orders till November 16, 2008 for Stuffed Cabbage and home
style KOLBASZ (sausage). Please bring your own container. Pick up your orders on November 22, Noon till 2PM For
more info: Please call Linda 203 634 0602 Kathy 203 213-3775
Page 34 November 2008

What You Need To Know! Seasonal Home Safety Tips From Your Community Life Line
South Meriden Volunteer Fire Department Serving for over 100 years
Some timely safety tips in advance of the upcoming winter season. With the cooling temperatures comes the
increased risk of fire deaths. In 2007, 2,800 Americans unintentionally lost their lives to fires, flames, and smoke,
according to National Safety Council.
To help protect you & your families SMVFD is offering the following safety tips:
Smoke Detectors
One is definitely not enough! Every home should be equipped with smoke detectors on every level, particularly out-
side sleeping areas.
Ensure that your smoke detectors are tested monthly and batteries are replaced twice a year. Change batteries when
you change your clocks.
Encourage children to help test the smoke detectors. Familiarize them with the sounds of the alarm(s).
Fire Extinguishers
Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen (one rated for grease fires and electrical fires.)
It's a good idea to keep fire extinguishers near the furnace, garage, and anywhere else a fire may start. These extin-
guishers are affordable, life-saving equipment for your home.
Make sure every able-bodied member of the family is trained and familiar with the proper way to use the fire extin-
guishers.
If you must use an extinguisher, make sure you have a clear way out in the event you can't put out the fire.
Remember to call (911) in case of a fire. Even though you might be trained in the use of a fire extinguisher it does not
North Haven Garden Club Meeting: Holiday Table mean the fire will be put out. Hesitation on calling the fire department could be costly to life and property.
Flammables
The North Haven Garden Club will have a special meeting on Holiday
Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of reach and out of sight of children! Smoking is dangerous! No one should
Decorations Thursday, Nov 13, 2008 at 7:00 at North Haven First ever smoke in bed. Make sure that cigarettes/cigars are extinguished properly before dumping ashes.
Congregational Church on 28 Church St. This meeting is open to the pub- Avoid grease build-up in the kitchen and on appliances. Cooking fires are common. Don't leave food cooking on
lic. The program will be Louis Lista of Pond House Café at Elizabeth Park. stovetops unattended.
He will present a program on entertaining and decorating for the holidays If a fire should occur, suffocate it with a pot/pan lid or a cookie sheet, or close the oven door. And remember to call
using fresh fruits and vegetables as part of the table arrangements. (911) if fire can not be immediately controlled.
The public is invited. Hostesses are chair: Marie Tiberio with Joan Around the holidays, Christmas trees are a primary concern. Consider using an artificial tree that is labeled "flame
Longobardi and Cathy Parent assisting. Table Arrangement will be by Rita resistant." If you do use an evergreen, water it daily to keep it from drying out. Make sure to inspect stringed lights
Gangi North Haven Garden Club is a member of The Federated Garden and window ornaments annually for deterioration.
Clubs of Connecticut, Inc and National Garden Clubs, Inc. Dispose of materials from fireplaces and grills in non-flammable containers.
Never put children to sleep in "day" clothes. Fire-retardant sleepwear can make a difference in burn outcomes.
Photo by Ellie Tessmer Holiday Design by Tony Todesco
Electrical Safety and Heat Sources
Make sure your electrical system is not being over-taxed. This can cause a fire. Do your lights dim or flicker when

SILVER CITY COIN & STAMPS extra appliances are plugged in? If you have questions or concerns, consult a certified electrician.
Inspect wires. If you find any worn or exposed wiring from appliances, discontinue their use immediately! A fire is

COLLECTIBLES imminent!
Space heaters can be dangerous if not used correctly. Make sure yours will automatically shut off if tipped over.
Consult the operating instructions to make sure you are using space heaters, gas fireplaces, and other heat sources as
STAMPS • COVERS • COINS • TOKENS intended by the manufacturer. Keep all flammable materials away from heat sources! If there are young children in the
house, make sure space heaters and hot water heaters are inaccessible.
PAPER MONEY • POSTCARDS • HOBBY SUPPLIES Chimney fires are common. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
Keep appliances unplugged when not in use.
A GREAT GIFT SELECTION FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Escaping a Fire
41 COLONY STREET, MERIDEN, CT 06451 Keep bedroom doors shut while sleeping. If you think there is a fire, feel the door and knob for heat before opening.
Have an escape route for each area of the home and a designated meeting place outside.
(203) 235-7634 Draw a map--one that's easy for all members of the family and visitors to understand.
When planning for a family with young children, be sure to teach them not to hide from fire or smoke and to go to
firefighters who are there to help them.
All children should be familiar with the ideas of "crawling underneath the smoke" to escape a fire. "Stop, drop, and
roll" is another safety principle that must be ingrained into children's minds.
Multi-storied buildings are of special concern. Ensure that everyone is familiar with how to use an escape ladder if
necessary.
Make sure every sleeping room has two means of escape in the event of a fire.
Windows provide a secondary means of escape. Ensure they are in proper working order, are not painted shut, and
This edition of “The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your guards are able to be disengaged in case of fire and escape is necessary through that window.
Views” serves the needs of the communities of Wallingford and Meriden, Everyone must understand that once you escape, you must never reenter a burning building--no matter what you might
Connecticut. For safety reasons we do not publish the last name of have left behind.
artists/writers under the age of 15. 5% of all annual net proceeds are Call emergency responders (911) from a neighbor's house.
donated in kind or in financial donation to local charities and organiza- Make sure to practice your escape plan periodically. It will be easier to remember in case of an emergency.
tions. Young children should know their street address and last name and, of course, how to dial (911).
This newspaper is not affiliated with any other newspaper. After you've planned for the family, don't forget the pets. Alert firefighters about your pets. Don't rely on window or
Publishers: Andrew& Dawn Reynolds door decals to alert firefighters--such decals are often found to be outdated. In the event your pet suffers from smoke
inhalation, rush the animal to the vet.
peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com Our Officers and Members wish good health to you and the family the above information should help keep us all
Managing Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds safe.
dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com Chief Keith Gordon
Copy Editor Dawn A. N.-Reynolds
dawnwork@peoplespressnews.com
Advertising Andy Reynolds Meriden earns HEARTSafe Community designation
andy@peoplespressnews.com The Connecticut Department of
Public Health (DPH), in collaboration
Web Site Web Solutions, LLC with the American Heart Association,
Writers YOU WRITE IT....WE PRINT IT!!! announces that the City of Meriden
has been designated a HEARTSafe
“The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your Views” Community.
publications are published by: Meriden Mayor Michael Rohde
DNA, LLC states "We are pleased to be designat-
ed as a heart safe community by the
P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492 Department of Public Health. We
peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com take pride in our efforts to proactive-
www.peoplespressnews.com • Phone (203) 235-9333 ly address the risks of heart attack
Advertising (203) 235-9333 • Fax Number (203) 294.8808 amongst our residents."
The People's Press,Your Town, Your News, Your Views and all versions "Meriden has demonstrated its
or portions of said name are ©Copyright DNA,LLC. 1999-2008 All Text, commitment toward ensuring that its
Logos, Images and other content in print, web or in any way or form are residents and visitors receive the
©Copyright DNA, LLC 1999-2008 All Rights Reserved early lifesaving response proven to
The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher and increase the chances of survival for
DNA, LLC. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or heart attack victims," said DPH
submissions. All items contained herein, including advertisements or portions Commissioner J. Robert Galvin,
thereof, may not be reproduced in any way, shape or form without the written M.D., M.P.H.
consent of the publisher. All submissions whether by mail, fax, email or any DPH began the HEARTSafe Communities program to foster community environments that improve the survival
other means become the property of The People’s Press and DNA, LLC and odds for people suffering sudden cardiac events, such as cardiac arrests or heart attacks. The key to the program has
may be used in any media it so chooses. By submitting to this paper you agree been dubbed by the American Heart Association as the Chain of Survival. The Chain of Survival has four vital links:
to these terms and release The People’s Press and DNA, LLC from any finan- early access to emergency care; early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); early defibrillation and early advanced
cial obligations or notifications for any future use of any of said submissions. care.
The People’s Press will make every effort to see that all advertising copy is A HEARTSafe Community promotes and supports: CPR training in the community; public access to defibrillation
correctly printed. The publisher assumes no responsibility for typographical through strategic placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for use by public safety professionals and
errors in advertising, advertising inadvertently left out; but will gladly reprint, other trained community members; and early advanced care.
without charge, that part of an advertisement is which any error may have Meriden met the program requirements for public placement of AEDs, trained community residents, and equipped,
occurred, provided that a claim is made within five days of publication. The staffed and trained emergency responders. In addition, Meriden is planning on continuing to provide community CPR
publisher takes no responsibility for statements or claims made in any adver- training programs and expand the availability of AEDs in public locations.
tisement. Any copy or images designed or developed by The People’s Press are The Meriden Health Department has many programs and resources available to keep your heart healthy. For more
©Copyright DNA,LLC and may not be used in any other medium. All Rights information on the HEARTSafe program and heart health in general, please contact the Meriden Health Department at
Reserved By advertising within The People’s Press, you agree to these terms. 630-4238.
Page 35 November 2008

The unthankful heart... discovers no mercies; but let the To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The People's Press - Call
thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com.
finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly
blessings! - Henry Ward Beecher

Get Better Soon!

Malvina, Get better Soon! Sorry you broke your foot! Love, Mommy and
Sissy

Happy Birthday

Wallingford Health Director Eloise Hazelwood demontrating


what happens when you don’t brush your teeth.
Only the best from a company you know and trust!

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Page 36 November 2008

G E T R E A D Y F O R T H E H O L I D AY
S E A S O N E A R LY A T
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20% OFF $2.00 OFF!! Regular Price - $14.00 Includes:
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