LocalMotion! HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

www.peoplespressnews.comWallingford Flower
& Gift Shoppe

LocalMotion - Your Town, Your News, Your Views! 190 Center Street. 203.265.1514
November 2010 • Volume 11, Issue 133

When I first saw this photo I was haunted. I looked at it for some time.
You might not think this is a “People’s Press” type of photo. Neither
did I at first but then I realized what this paper is and should be all
about.
I’m not ignorant to think that there is not sadness or pain within all of
us. We all have it, including myself. Deep inside we all have a piece of
us that we have never shared. Some more then others.
To find the path to happiness is to find the way to ease the pain inside
of ourselves. There is no way that we can help others before we can help
ourselves.
The stories, photos and poems within each issue is a way of discover-
ing ourselves and dealing with that hidden person behind the mask.
Through the words of someone who has been there or has an under-
standing of what it’s really like. Hidden behind the stories that we all
share is the reality of what we have been through in our lives.
I have learned so much from these pages each month. I see that my
own writing has grown to express what really is inside of me as well. Of
course it’s scary to really put it out there but if we don’t then what have
we really learned. You can start one word at a time.
THE PEOPLE’S PRESS Page 2 November 2010
 Page 3 November 2010

We Caught A Virus! The People’s Press will be having 2

issues in December to serve your needs.

That’s right. The People’s Press Computers

were emailed a virus early last week and bye
bye computers. The good news is that we
have new systems that are faster, more
capable and ready for a bunch of new things
coming soon. We apologize for the delay in
this issue. Not to worry in the future.

Mayor's Corner - Meriden

Halloween featured another positive event at
the downtown Hub -"Halloween Happenings at
the Hub" sponsored by the Meriden Y and the
City of Meriden. Hundreds of attendees
enjoyed hayrides, pumpkin decorating, horse
rides, petting zoo, hot chocolate, and scary
music. It was a family fun night for all. Next
up for the Hub is the new ice skating rink start-
ing in December. Sharpen your skates!
Chorale Connecticut, a locally based musical
ensemble, presented "Cabaret and Cabernet" at
the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center to an appre-
ciative crowd. The combination of beautiful The first will be your traditional December issue.
music and interesting wines made for a delightful evening. The acoustics of
the cultural center provided the perfect ambience for a memorable night of
The deadline for all stories, news, events and photos is December 2nd. Email to
song. Look for another Chorale performance in December. peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com or celebrations@peoplespressnews.com.
Events coming up in November include the Maloney Props and Paints pre-
sentation of the "Diary of Ann Frank" at the Maloney Auditorium on
November 18, 19, and 20. Shows at 7 PM. Don't miss this classic play! And,
the annual Platt/Maloney Stoddard Bowl football game taking place at Falcon
Field on Thanksgiving Day, November 25. Both football programs are enjoy-
ing outstanding seasons so it promises to be an epic battle.
Another first for Meriden is the new natural gas fueling station on Michael
Drive. Our city lays claim to the first municipal natural gas fueling station in
Connecticut. The city now has a fleet of six natural gas powered cars with
more to come. The bottom line is significant fuel savings and 90% cleaner
emissions.
As always, enjoy the many community offerings available in Meriden!
Warm regards.
Mike Rohde, Mayor of Meriden

Mayor's Corner - Wallingford

Dear Citizens:
During the month of November our thoughts turn
to the holiday season. The Thanksgiving holi-
day is fast approaching and each year the Parents
and Kids Foundation hosts a Community
Thanksgiving Dinner which will be served at the
First Congregational Church in Wallingford.
Donations of turkeys and "all the fixin's" are
needed and you may call Nancy Freyberg at 203-
284-8299 for additional information.
On Friday, December 3rd, Wallingford Center
Inc. is hosting its Second Annual Christmas Walk
from 4:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. Music will be pro-
vided and shops in the downtown area will offer free refreshments and special
treats.
On Saturday, December 4th, we look forward to our "Holiday
Extravaganza". The featured activities are the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus
who will meet the children from 2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. at the Town Hall.
Horse and Carriage Rides, music, entertainment, petting zoo, photo booth,
cookies and visits with Toy Soldiers are also planned. The Frosty Parade will
assemble in front of Town Hall at 5:00 p.m. and march to the Johanna
Manfreda Fishbein Park followed by music from the Wallingford Chorus,
reading of "Twas' The Night before Christmas", followed by the annual Tree
Lighting Ceremony. Events are sponsored by Wallingford Public
Celebrations, Wallingford Parks and Recreation and Wallingford Center, Inc.
We extend best wishes to all our citizens for a Happy Thanksgiving. Please
join us in December for fun and holiday spirit.
Sincerely,
The 2nd will be our annual "Holiday Magic"
William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor
issue featuring all of your Happy Holiday photos,
National Adoption Month Event
Please be aware that November is national Adoption Month. Families can put
stories and more.
blue lights on porches or in windows in honor of it. A special event will take The deadline for all stories, news, events and photos is December 12th. Email to
place at the Cultural Center on Nov 18th at 6:30.
One can pay back the loan of gold, but one dies forever in
peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com or celebrations@peoplespressnews.com.
debt to those who are kind. ~Malayan Proverb
Page 4 November 2010

In honor and memory of Mr. Ric

CELEBRATIONS
Carole Golitko VP & youth & environment chair for The Wallingford
Garden club,was invited to Mrs Fredricksons first grade class to read a
story.In keeping with her environment program Pumpkin Jack was the
choice .The story wasabout a childs first pumpkin & how it was recycled to
provide numerous pumpkins the following year. The class was treated to
their each individual pumpkin to try dublicating the story. Wallingford
Garden club a member of The Federated Garden clubs,& Garden Clubs of
CT.
By Mary Underwood
As a former athlete at Mark T Sheehan High School, I had numerous interac-
tions with Mr. Ricitelli over the years. As the athletic director, he was con-
cerned about me as a member of the field hockey team and the track team. But
his concern was not limited to my performance in the athletic arena. For Mr.
Ric was equally interested in me as a student. In addition his interest expanded
well beyond my high school years.
As an athlete, one could almost always find Mr. Ric on the sidelines
cheering on HIS Titans. Whether it was a home or away game; whether it be a
regular season or playoff competition; and whether it was an expected blowout
or a close competition, Mr. Ric was there. He was always there. As a member
of the track team, there were often times that our meets took place at the same
time as a baseball and/or softball game. And Mr. Ric was somehow on top of
all of them. Knowing the score, knowing how everyone was doing, and some-
how cheering them all on at the same time.
Coming in first or coming in last didn't matter to Mr. Ric. And although everyone loves to win, it didn't feel as though
that was the most important thing to him. It was being there for his athletes. Picking them up if they were down and
patting them on the back for a job well done. And every one of us was a "Blue Chipper" in his eyes.
Walking down the hall, he knew every student. He greeted everyone of us. He knew you whether you were an athlete
or not. His smile and enthusiasm about being at MTS was contagious.
During my senior year, Mr. Ric was equally aware of my athletics as he was about my next phase in life. Wanting to
know where I was applying and what I was going to do. Asking about my plans to participate in athletics at the next
level. Wondering what my major would be. Asking what he could do to help. Could he make a call? Talk to someone
he knew? His focus was not on my sports but on my overall success. He was our cheerleader not only in sports but in
life.
As I went off to college, Mr. Ric was still in touch with my family. Once you were one of Mr. Ric's kids, you were one

CELEBRATIONS
of his for life, not just the 4 years of high school. As a college student, I couldn't wait for the Thanksgiving football
game to catch up with everyone and to meet up with my friends. I think the only person who loved the Thanksgiving
game more than the returning students, was Mr. Ric. It was his chance to see all HIS kids again; to give us each a giant
Mr. Ric hug, and to let us know that we were still his blue chippers.
In my 25+ years out of Sheehan, I have run into Mr. Ric on numerous occasions. Each one started with a genuine
smile and an enthusiastic hug. Each one filled with questions about my life. Each one leaving me with the feeling that
this incredible man still cared.
This past week, Mr. John Ricitelli passed away. He may no longer be with us physically but we all carry a piece of his
love and compassion with us. His enthusiasm, his compassion, and his genuine love of others is something that we
should all continue in his honor. That's what us Blue Chippers need to do for a man who so loved us.

Camden has been working out. Did he lift that pumpkin all by himself?
A Heartfelt Thank You from a Local Teen Who Raised $2700.00 for Charity
From Sabrina
Let me start by saying to everyone who supported my fundraising efforts, You're
the Best! When I began this drive for the "Play Hard Play Fair" charities which
include, Ct Children's Hospital, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, Ct. Junior
Soccer Association, Top Soccer which helps kids with disabilities play soccer and
the Mia Hamm Foundation which is involved with bone marrow research, I never
dreamed that I would have so much support from my community! Whether you
donated your time, a can for the nickel, bought a cookie, allowed me to hang a
flyer in your business, donated money or offered extra moral support and encour-
agement you all played an important role in helping me raise $2700.00 for these
great charities!
There are so many people I'd like to thank for their time, effort, support and
encouragement throughout this fundraising drive.
First, the Meriden Soccer Club board members for taking the time to listen to
my proposals at the meetings, allowing me to sell cookies and collect cans at the concession stand during home games

Celebrating 25 Years and training and offering lots of moral support and encouragement! You also played a huge role in getting all of the
approvals I needed for the benefit game!

of Baking Up the Goods!

Second, the Meriden Elks Lodge #35 members for accepting my challenge and playing in the 1st Annual "Play Hard
Play Fair" benefit game in August. Though the aches, bruises and blisters were many you finished the game like win-
ners and with a smile! Some of you donated countless hours behind the scenes to help make the event a huge success
Order Your Holiday Pies Now! and many of you donated your time grilling, serving food, rallying the crowd, playing in the game and giving out great
drug awareness information to the kids of Meriden. You guys really have big hearts!
Third, my coaches and team Eoin, Bruce, Riley, Annie, Emmely, Megan, Marquia, Nicole, Bailey, Olivia, Katlyn,
Tessa, Nicole, Alyssa and Holly. Thank you for supporting and believing in me and for taking the time during the off
season to prepare and participate in the benefit game. We are a champion team in many ways not just on the field but
off the field as well. Your overall support is the reason I'm proud to say I'm part of one of the greatest teams in
Connecticut.
Fourth, the Meriden Soccer Club in town players and their parents for buying so many cookies every weekend and
participating in the Can and Bottle Drive contest. You donated 3,145 cans and bottles which played a huge part in this
fundraising event!
Last but not least, all of the people who donated gift cards, product to be given away as prizes, time, money and over
all support. Top's IGA, Huxley's, Lido's Pizza, Bozzutto's, Tommassetti Distributors' , Redi Whip, Stop & Shop, Big Y,
Tom Moore, Al Haag, Lee Pandiani, Mike Annino, Wev Valerie, Joe Pierce, Ken & Marie Rosick, Jodi & Sharon Hoag,
Amy Statham, Tom & Laurie Bedard, Charles Zieminski, Charles Zieminski Jr., Bruegger's Bagels, Illiano's,
Southington Athletics, Toyota of Wallingford, Price Chopper, Gail Bendel, Fistful of Change, Javier Arbello, Emil,
Matias, Gerald Godburn, Michele and Keith Stocking, Raymond Rosick, Eoin and Robyn McClure, In town players
of MSC and their parents, u14 girls team and Bruce & Denise Eldridge. Without you a lot of the efforts throughout the
drive would not have been possible!
No one makes them like On behalf of the "Play Hard Play Fair" charities thank you for your generosity and support and remember, "To find
Marianna’s with Mama’s Secret Recipes!!! your own inner strength you must first give all of ourselves to others that are in need of help!" and that's just what we
did!
Pumpkin Apple Blueberry
Cherry Pineapple Chocolate Cream Under a Full Moon
Banana Cream Mince Cranberry Nut Under a Full Moon on Friday October 22, 2010...downtown
Lemon Meringue Key Lime Meriden at the Hub, lots of little ghouls and ghosts gathered for
a Halloween Festival. There were pumpkins to decorate, and
Also Dinner Rolls, Hard Rolls, and Breads. Hayrides under the moonlight, there were snacks and hot cocoa
Open Thanksgiving Day 7am-1pm! on a chilly evening.
There were many friendly faces that greeted and entertained
guests. The children enjoyed dancing and singing along with
the music from the dj, some even got up on stage.
Fire, Police and Ambulance personnel were present, with
Safety Information for children and families, and their vehicles
were on display for the children to see.
It was a fun time for children of all ages.
Hours: Monday.- Friday. 7-6; Sat 7-4; Sun. 7-2
The only people with whom you should try to get even are those who have helped you. ~John E. Southard
I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks. ~William Shakespeare
 Page 5 November 2010

St. Joseph School's Christmas Bazaar
Please join us for St. Joseph School's Christmas Bazaar, taking place on
December 3rd from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and December 4th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Enjoy playing carnival games, take your picture with Santa, shop for home-
made crafts and eat your way through our Cookie Walk. We hope to see you
there! To obtain a craft table application ($65 for both days), please email
sjs@sjs-meriden.org or call the school at 203-237-6800.
Franciscan Christmas Fair
Saturday, November 20, 2010 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Franciscan Life Center - 271 Finch Avenue, Meriden, CT
Join in the spirit of Christmas by joining us for the 19th Annual Franciscan
Christmas Fair! Gifts, treasures, homemade Franciscan pottery, candy, jams,
jellies and Franciscan bread, Connecticut grown Christmas trees, hand-deco-
rated wreath, refreshments, raffles and more! For more information visit our
web site at www.flcenter.org
CELEBRATIONS
Look it’s Zorro - BEWARE ALL EVIL DOERS!
CELEBRATIONS
BUSY LIFE LEAVES LITTLE SPARE TIME
By Phyllis S. Donovan
People once asked us "What are you going to do with all your spare time once you're retired?"
We haven't had much time to think about it since we're always so busy going places and doing all the things we have
to squeeze into our lives.
For instance, just last weekend our son called to see if we were free to go over to Lyman Orchards' Corn Maze with
his kids and their cousins and maybe pick apples or seek out some perfect pumpkins afterward. Before they could gath-
er are our house, one granddaughter had a soccer game so it was 3 p.m. before we all left for the corn maze. By the
time five grandchildren and three fathers found their way through the UConn -themed maze (they got lost in Geno
Auriemma's hair -- lots of dead ends there) it was too late for apple picking or pumpkin gathering.
Since we were already up on the hill where the apple trees grew, we followed the road down to Powder Ridge and
stopped at the roadside dinosaur park there. The kids had all been to the state Dinosaur Park in Rocky Hill but this was
different, more a hands-on experience akin to a treasure hunt. That late in the afternoon, nobody else was there and the
outcropping containing the tracks was covered with fallen leaves. Imagine their excitement to brush off those leaves
and put their hands into actual three-toed dinosaur tracks. They couldn't have been more thrilled. Even the promise of a
family pizza party after couldn't pry them away from this impromptu scavenger hunt.
Family get-togethers are special times but even when it's just my husband and me, we always find plenty of things to
brighten our lives. Earlier in that same week we had already enjoyed a Castle Craig Players' matinee of "Twelve Angry
Jurors" at their downtown theater. Another afternoon we stopped by Gallery 53 on Colony Street to see their latest
exhibit of local artists' work, including a wonderful winning piece by my longtime eye doctor, Brook Abrahams,
depicting a camel and rider along the Silk Road. A bonus of that visit was getting a chance to visit with Rose Cignatta
who was minding the collection that day.
Another evening, we went down to the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center for "Cabaret and Cabernet," a delicious
evening of music and wine tasting hosted by Dorothy Barnhart's Chorale Connecticut. Between
noshing crudities and canapés provided by Chorale members and sampling four different wines provided by Stew
Leonard's, we were treated to sprightly show tunes and happy harmonizing by the Chorale and its
talented interns.
One morning that same week, we joined a group of Meriden Y's Men, for a trip to the New Britain Museum of Art
to see the featured work of Dutch grapahic artist M.C. Escher. The visit was arranged by local artist and potter Dick
Kupstis who was using a museum pass from the Meriden Public Library (the Friends of the Library helps pay for many
of the museum passes available there which allow people entry to area museums at a special reduced rate.)
For anyone not familiar with Escher's amazing, mostly black and white, graphic artwork, it would not be a stretch to
call it truly mind-boggling. Although his architecturally apt renderings of landscapes and cities across Italy are precise
and pleasing, it is his impossible, eye-tricking and mind bending ability to depict three dimensions in two dimensions
which is both fascinating and maddening.
His obsession with tessellation in which a shape is repeated and evolves on a single plane without any gaps or
overlaps, with writhing snakes, toothy grinning fish and birds in flight, captures the imagination while his mechanical
looking men marching up and down staircases or erupting from his woodcuts, challenge reason, as intriguing as they
are implausible.
The work of M.C. Escher is more an experience than a simple viewing so it's a better idea to walk through the rest
of museum's more traditional offerings before tackling the second floor Escher gallery as to fully appreciate Escher is
to become mentally totally absorbed. It is an intense immersion into the impossible.
So-o, don't ask us how we fill our time. Ask us how we'll find the time to do all we still want to do in this lifetime.
Judging from the week we've just come through, you'll see we're already living life at full tilt!

This is it
This is it. All those mornings of waking up before the sun was even up, waiting at the bus stop, and eating food off of
Styrofoam trays at lunch have all come down to this year. Senior year is the last year that we will have to be in school.
Everyone is going to go their own ways. Some may not go to college, while others will go across the country for their
college experience. We are now our own person.
I'm writing this on the first of the month, and with a little help from an online countdown, reality just hit that I have
227 days left with the people I love calling my friends. Some are new, and some I've known since my early days at
Thomas Hooker Elementary School. But friends are friends, and it's a big wake up call to know that in seven months
we will be walking away from our childhood, and walking towards our future. They say you don't see a majority of the
people you graduate with after the day you walk across that stage and get your diploma. So these last days we have
together need to be spent the best way possible.
Senior year is about making memories, planning what's next, and of course having fun. There's the football games,
the cross-town rivals, the dances, senior outing, prom, and you can't forget graduation. All should be done with a big
smile, many laughs, and pictures being taken constantly.
I can't wait for the day we have our tenth, twentieth and thirtieth year class reunion. Those pictures we took at
senior prom by the Hubbard Park waterfall and at pep rally before the Thanksgiving Day Game will make us laugh and
smile once again.
Enjoy these days we have together. - Sarah Gopoian

We are proud to be celebrating

our 105th year in the fruit
Andrew D'Avignon's had a howling good time this Halloween.
growing business! 1904-22010
Find out why by stopping by!

RECESSION BEATING PRICES! Now in the Store

Blue Hills Orchard Apples
would like to
SAVE as much as thank your for
Gala
McIntosh
20% on Labor! allowing us to Cortland
serve your needs Honeycrisp
Sweeney's Contracting this year. The Macoun
Connecticut Home Country Store will Pink Lady
Improvement Services be closing for the Empire
Painting Floors Wainscoting Honeycrisp and season on Sun. Red Delicious
Macoun Apples Nov. 21st! Happy Mutsu
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Page 6 November 2010

Meriden Health Department - Keeping You Healthy in November! Diabetes 101 Quiz
November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Think you are up-to-date on your diabetes info? Take this
Seasonal Flu Vaccines
quiz from the Meriden Health Department to find out. Visit www.meridenhealth.com for the
The Meriden Health Department is now offering seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine to Meriden resi-
answers.
dents. This year's vaccine includes protection from the H1N1 flu virus. Getting the flu vaccine is
1. Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose levels are above normal.
the best protection against getting sick from influenza.
a. True
Yearly flu vaccination is recommended for anyone over the age of 6 months. Any persons aller-
b. False
gic to eggs or any part of the flu vaccine are not eligible for the vaccination.
2. Which is NOT a symptom of diabetes?
The cost of the vaccine is $25.00. Medicare Part B will be accepted. The vaccine is given at the
a. Increased thirst
Health Department, 165 Miller Street, Monday - Friday from 8:30am - 4:00pm. No appointment is
b. Hiccups
necessary. Call (203) 630-4234 with any questions.
c. Headaches
Tdap Vaccine Now Available
3. How can you prevent Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes?
The Meriden Health Department is asking all parents, grandparents, healthcare workers and day
a. By keeping blood pressure and blood cholesterol numbers in the normal range
care providers - GOT TDAP? Tdap is the vaccine that protects against Pertussis, also known at
b. By maintaining a healthy weight
whooping cough. Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that causes uncontrol-
c. Both a and b
lable, violent coughing that makes it hard to breathe. It can be fatal in young children, especially
4. If you have no symptoms, how old should you be to start regular testing (screening) for
babies less than 1 year of age.
Type 2 diabetes?
Anyone under age 65 who has contact with children under 12 months old should get the Tdap
a. 35
vaccine. The vaccine is given for free at the Meriden Health Department, 165 Miller Street,
b. 45
Monday -Friday from 8:30am - 4:00pm. Call (203) 630-4234 for more information or to schedule
c. 55
an appointment.
5. Diabetes that goes undiagnosed or uncontrolled can lead to…
Senior Center Event - Causes of Low Vision
a. Blindness
A program on the causes of low vision will be held Wednesday November 17, 2010 from 10:00-
b. Kidney failure
11:30am at the Meriden Senior Center, located at 22 W. Main Street.
c. Both a and b.
The program will be presented by Dr. David W. Parke, MD, FICS and Michelle Rini, ORT-L.
6. How many children under the age of 20 are living with diabetes (both Type 1 and Type
This event is sponsored by the Meriden Senior Center and Masonicare. There is no charge to
2) in the United States?
attend and the public is welcome. For more information call 203-630-4222.
a. 186,000
Turkey Tips
b. 200,000
Do you plan on cooking a turkey this Thanksgiving? If so, let's talk turkey! Below are some help-
c. 320,000
ful turkey preparation and cooking tips from the Meriden Health Department
7. Someone with diabetes should check their blood sugar levels…
Thawing:
a. Daily
Never thaw your turkey at room temperature. This promotes the growth of dangerous bacteria.
b. Weekly
There are three ways to thaw your turkey safely:
c. Monthly
1. In the refrigerator (40 degrees Fahrenheit or below) - for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey allow
8. If you are overweight or obese you can prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes by:
about 24 hours of thawing time.
a. Losing 1-2% of your body weight
2. In the microwave- check your owner's manual for the size of the turkey that will fit in your
b. Losing 3-4% of your body weight
microwave oven, the minutes per pound, and the power level to use for thawing. After thawing,
c. Losing 5-7% of your body weight
immediately finish cooking in a conventional oven.
9. Eating a lot of sugar can cause diabetes.
Preparing:
a. True
o Wash your hands well before and after preparing each food item in your Thanksgiving meal.
b. False
o Keep two cutting boards handy-one for preparing raw meat, and the other for cutting cooked
10. Being over 45, having a family history of diabetes, abnormal cholesterol levels and being of a
foods and preparing salads.
certain race/ethnic background are all risk factors to developing Type 2 diabetes.
o Wash all counter tops with hot soapy water before and after food preparation.
a. True
o Cook your Thanksgiving meal with a clean oven and stove to prevent illness.
b. False
Cooking:
o Cook your turkey to the proper internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. While it is okay
to defrost a turkey according to the owner's manual directions, never cook a turkey in the Concert for Thanksgiving
microwave. Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra
o Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the innermost part of the thigh and
Sunday, November 21 · 4:00pm - 5:00pm - Center Congregational Church, Meriden, CT
wing and thickest part of the breast.
474 Broad Street at the corner of East Main Street Meriden, CT
o If you stuff your turkey, the stuffing should also reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!!!! Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra, "Concert for
o Cook on back burners of the stove as much as possible and turn handles in so they do not extend
Thanksgiving," 4:00, at the Center Congregational Church, 474 Broad Street, (RT 5), at East Main
over the stove. This will help prevent burns or accidentally knocking the hot pan on to the floor.
Street, in Meriden. Please come and support youth Classical music! Suggested donation $7.50 for
After the feast:
adults, $3.00 for students, seniors and active military personnel. Under 10 are always free! A
o Do not allow cooked food to sit out at room temperature for more than two hours.
reception will follow. Help us purchase new music! Would you also extend this invitation to other
o Take the meat off and the stuffing out of the turkey to store after the meal.
friends? The CCCYO is 45 kids in two ensembles, we would like to have 90-100 enrolled each
o Separate large quantities of food into smaller containers so they cool faster. Put leftovers in the
season. We are the only civic youth orchestra in the region for young string players to play, we
refrigerator as soon as possible after the meal.
have brass, woodwind & percussion students as well. I hope you can attend, bring a young person
o Eat leftover turkey and stuffing within 3 to 4 days.
with you! The CCCYO will play 'Finlandia', 'Chester,' 'Simple Gifts', 'El Tango' and other pieces.
o Reheat leftovers to 165 degree Fahrenheit or until hot and steaming.
Thanks, from Katrina & the CCCYO.
o Never taste leftover food that looks or smells strange. When in doubt, throw it out!
Late Fall Program Registration
The People's Press will be having 2 issues in December to serve your needs. The first will be The Wallingford Family YMCA has begun registration for its Late Fall Session beginning
your traditional paper and the 2nd will be our annual "Holiday Magic" issue featuring all of November 1st. Programs include Youth Dance, Youth Basketball, Preschool Sports, Karate,
your Happy Holiday photos, stories and more. The deadlines are December 1st for the Swimming Lessons, and more. For more information go to www.wallingfordymca.org or call
December issue and December 12th for our "Holiday Magic" issue! (203)269-4497.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of your friends
Need Some Steam To Warm You Up? at The People’s Press

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Quality Service...Affordable Price

Adam from Man V. Food stopped by and so should you

1046 Broad Street in Meriden - 203-237-6660 203-235-2561


MTS Class of 1980 - 30th Reunion
Attention all members of the Class of 1980! On Saturday, November 27th we
will be celebrating our 30th Reunion at Zandri's Stillwood Inn in Wallingford
CT. If you have not received an invitation please visit our class website for
complete information www.marktsheehan80.com.
CELEBRATIONS
On the left is Alysa and Devonne (Wilcox goalie) before the start of the
game and on the right is Alysa and Katie after Katie shot the winning
goal. Wilcox beat Platt Tech at Falcon Field in double overtime 1-0….The
girls played GREAT! All three girls are part of the Varsity team.
CELEBRATIONS
Tinkerbella
Page 7 November 2010
"Dog Whisperer" Cesar Millan Visits
Benjamin Franklin Elementary in Meriden
By Carrie Purcell
Many people know and love Cesar Millan, host of the National
Geographic Channel's The Dog Whisperer, and founder of the Millan
Foundation. In each episode he rehabilitates even the most out-of-
control dogs, and he trains their people to find their calm, assertive,
and confident state for effective leadership. On Thursday, October
21, Millan visited Benjamin Franklin Elementary School in Meriden
to discuss the Mutt-i-grees ® Curriculum, a newly-implemented pro-
gram, which focuses on teaching social and emotional skills to chil-
dren pre-K through high school.
The Mutt-i-grees ® Curriculum, which is being piloted in 31
schools in Connecticut, was developed by The PetSaver Foundation
in collaboration with Yale University's School of the 21st Century
with funding from the Millan Foundation. This is an innovative cur-
riculum that helps to build self- and social-awareness and relationship
skills so that children can learn how to make ethical decisions that
benefit people and animals.
When Yale contacted Cathy Battista, President of the Connecticut
Family Resource Center Alliance and Director of Meriden Family
Resource Centers, about piloting the Mutt-i-grees ® Curriculum in
Connecticut, Battista thought it was a great idea. "It was already
piloted in three other states, but not Connecticut. I contacted the 61
other Family Resource Centers in Connecticut about the Curriculum."
The Family Resource Center concept, originally developed at Yale, promotes comprehensive, integrated, community-
based systems of family support and child development services. The philosophical foundation is designed to provide
the best possible start for children and families of all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups living in the communities
in which Family Resource Centers are located.
"The Meriden Family Resource Center was the catalyst behind implementing this program at Benjamin Franklin. The
curriculum was piloted in seven classrooms this fall," Battista says.
"In the brief time that we have implemented the curriculum, the teachers and students have already begun using the
vocabulary and referring to the lessons to express needs and wants. You have to be in touch with your own emotions
before you can have empathy for others ," Dan Coffey, Principal of Benjamin Franklin, says. "In addition, I feel that
the curriculum has been exceptionally effective with the special education classes."
"When Yale called me and asked if I wanted Cesar to make a visit to kick off the program for Connecticut, of
course, I said, 'yes,'" Battista says. As part of the visit, Millan toured each of the seven classrooms to speak with the
students.
"In America, there is an emphasis on intellectual growth and making money. But we are not nurturing our instinctual
selves," Millan says. "From our roots, we must learn honesty, integrity, and love so that we can create trust, respect and
loyalty. These are the fundamentals in creating a successful relationship with self and others."
Millan learned these fundamentals at an early age growing up on a farm in Mexico. His grandfather taught him to
work with Mother Nature - not against it. He connected with dogs easily and studied how they behave naturally in a
pack. "Dogs will not follow an unstable leader. We will," Millan says. "Dogs don't care if you're wealthy or famous.
They care if you are honest and have integrity. They care about what energy you are- they focus on how balanced you
are.
"The Mutt-i-gree ® Curriculum is important because we must teach integrity to our children, so that the next gener-
ation will know how to work as a team for an entire nation - to create a pack mentality, so to speak," Millan says.
The Mutt-i-grees ® Curriculum includes lessons organized around five themes: Achieving Awareness, Finding
Feelings, Encouraging Empathy, Cultivating Cooperation, and Dealing with Decisions. Lessons highlight vocabulary
words, learning concepts from other subjects, and suggested readings to develop children's emerging literacy and lan-
guage development.
After visiting classrooms, Millan answered individual children's questions during an assembly. Millan, often known
for imitating dogs, acted out different dog behaviors, such as wagging his "tail," and growling. He asked the children
what emotion the dog was exhibiting. As the children got each emotion correct, Millan said, "See you are all already
dog whisperers."
After, children approached him in the hall, eager to ask more questions. Millan more than obliged them.
In a final conference at the end of the day, Millan met with parents and teachers to discuss the importance of parent
participation. Parent involvement is fundamental to success in a child's education and self-esteem.
"When parents are in the school and feel good and excited about it - it is a great thing," Coffee says. "Even outside
of academics, Benjamin Franklin has done a number of events, such as movie night, fall family night, bingo, and our
end-of-the-year bash, to get parents involved in a non-intimidating/non-judgmental way. As we develop the trust and
rapport, they understand we are here for them and their children."
The power of parental support was summed up in the student assembly: Millan told the students, "When I was 13 I
was walking home with my mother from a Judo competition. I asked her, 'Do you think I can become the best dog
trainer in the world?' and she said, 'Baby, you can be anything you want to be.'"
Page 8 November 2010
WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER - NOVEMBER
Just For Men Breakfast - Wednesday, November 17, 8:00 AM
In honor of Veterans Day our program will feature veterans sharing tales and anecdotes of life in
the military. Tickets for the breakfast and program are $2.00 for members and $3.00 for guests.
Tickets are on sale through November 16.
Thanksgiving Celebration - Thursday, November 18, 12:00 - 2:00 PM
A delicious meal and musical entertainment provided by the Elm City Banjo Society will set the
stage for the Thanksgiving holiday. Lake View Café will serve Sweet Potato Bisque,
Thanksgiving on a Roll (sliced turkey, apple sage stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy), Apple
Crisp a la Mode, Cranberry Juice and Coffee. Tickets for the meal are $4.00 and must be pur-
chased in advance. Tickets will be on sale November 1 - 16, or until sold out. Please note: Lake
View Café counter service will close after breakfast on November 18.
Food Drive
We are collecting non-perishable food items for the local food bank. You are invited to bring in a
canned or boxed food item on November 18, and add it to the collection table in the Great Room
during our Thanksgiving Celebration. Thank you for your generosity.
Canadian Rockies Trip Presentation - Tuesday, November 23, 10:00 AM
Learn about the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park trip scheduled for July 30 - August 6,
2011, at the slide show presentation on November 23. Highlights of this trip include: Calgary;
Banff; Waterton Lakes National Park; Glacier National Park in Montana; "Going to the Sun Road";
Columbia Icefields; Athabasca Falls; Jasper and much more! Pick up an itinerary for details.
Please sign up if you plan to attend the trip presentation.
MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR
CITIZENS' CENTER 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
8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver's license or other proof of age. New members
receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one compli-
mentary 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!
A Credit Reporting Workshop will be held on Thursday, November 18 at 10:30 am in the meet-
ing room. Mike Savinelli from BCI Financial will discuss credit reporting, scoring and how to
manage financial situations. Topics will include how credit reports are developed, what effects a
consumers score and why, the process to dispute and correct incorrect data, tips on the do's and
don'ts of credit and protecting your personal information. Mike has a 40 year background in the
credit reporting industry and conducts credit seminars for banks, hospitals, senior centers and
more. The presentation is free and open to the public.
New Opportunities of Greater Meriden is now taking applications for this year's Energy
Assistance Program. The program provides eligible households with financial assistance to pay
their winter energy bills. Income limits are $31,712 or less for a household of one, $41,470 for a
household of two and $51,228 for a household of three. There is also an asset test for the program.
If you are 60 or over, or on disability, and your income is within these limits you may be able to
get help with the cost of your fuel oil or utilities this year. Call 203.235.0278 for an appointment
to apply for the Energy Assistance 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 service is provided by the Senior Center Mini-Bus and
appointments must be scheduled several days in advance by calling 203.237.3338. The grant also
covers out-of-town rides, which are provided by Master's Manna (203.889.8003), RSVP
(860.224.7117) and Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers (203.230.8994). To schedule the out-of-town
rides call one of these agencies at least one week in advance.
A look at what we offer now and what we will have for the holidays!
Call and place your order TODAY!
Open Thanksgiving Day from 7am-1pm Open till 4pm on Christmas Eve!
The 2009 Senior Center Holiday Fair and Bake Sale will be on Wednesday, December 8 from
10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Handmade items will be sold by the Knitting, Sewing and Ceramic classes
and bake sales and raffles will also be held. 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.
Best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving Holiday and we hope you'll join us for our annual
Thanksgiving luncheon on Wednesday, November 17 with entertainment by Middi and the
Country Gentlemen, excellent Country Western performers we have all enjoyed here in the past!
John F. Hogarth, Director
Wallingford - Reminder on Clearing Sidewalks of Snow and Ice
Property owners, tenants or occupants responsible for the care of properties with sidewalks are
required by municipal ordinance to protect and maintain the sidewalk in a safe and convenient
condition for use by the public.
The municipal ordinance also requires that snow and ice be removed from the sidewalk follow-
ing the end of a storm. In the event that the ice can not be removed, the sidewalk shall be made as
safe as possible, including the placement of sand or other suitable deicing materials.
Sidewalks must be cleared of any snow or ice within eighteen (18) hours after the end of a
storm. If the storm ends at night, the deadline for cleaning the sidewalks is eighteen (18) hours
after sunrise. The cleared path must be a minimum of three (3) feet wide.
Failure to comply with the provisions of this ordinance can result in a fine and also for the actu-
al costs for the Town to clear the sidewalk.
For additional information, you may contact the Department of Engineering. 203 294-2035.
Bagged Leaves Collection - Begins November 22
Residents of Wallingford will have their bagged leaves picked up by the Public Works Department
starting Monday, November 22, 2010. All leaves to be picked up must be placed at the curb in
paper bags, sealed with masking tape only if needed. Bagged leaves need to be at the curb no later
than Sunday, November 21, 2010.
This is a ONE-TIME pickup of LEAVES ONLY. Brush, trash or garden waste will not be
accepted. Residents who miss the pickup can take leaves to the Compost Area (John Street) at no
charge.
Do not rake leaves into the gutters per Ordinance #380.
For questions, please contact the Public Works Department at 203-294-2105.
Meriden Leaf Collection
The City of Meriden will begin collecting bagged leaves the week of November 15, 2010. Leaves
must be in biodegradable (paper) bags and only masking tape shall be used to seal the bags. Plastic
bags are not accepted. The leaf pickup is random and will continue until mid-December or the
arrival of inclement weather. Appointments are not required. Please note that the City does not col-
lect leaves in the spring.
Residents may drop off their leaves at the Transfer Station, Evansville Avenue, beginning
November 1, 2010, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM. There is no fee for
the disposal of leaves.
If you have any questions, please contact 203-630-4018.
City of Meriden Public Comments Q & A Meeting
The City Council will hold open public comment forums on the following days:
December 20, 2010 The purpose of these forums is to allow the City Council to hear from the
public in a setting that allows for discussion of issues important to the City but not otherwise
before the City Council on their bimonthly action item agendas.
 Page 9 November 2010

NEWS AND EVENTS FROM WALLINGFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY The submission deadline for our December issue of THE PEOPLES
PRESS is December 1st. Email your stories, news and events to
All Programs, Movies, and Events at the Wallingford Public Library are free and open to the public! The Library is andy@peoplespressnews.com. Email your photos and celebrations to
located at 200 N. Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 celebrations@peoplespressnews.com. If we can help in any way please
Saturday Mornings with Poetry: Looking forward, ever changing, ever growing! call 203-235-9333.
Saturday, November 20 10:00 a.m. - 12: 30 p.m. Board Room

CELEBRATIONS
The SMWP series: Getting the Poetic Story Told continues this month with the following topics:
November 20 - Conflict and Suspense
Poets and would-be poets are invited to attend and share their poetry and writing experiences. SMWP meets semi-
monthly with the exception of July and August and is open to teenagers and adults.
Wednesday, November 17 6:30 p.m. Community Room
Understand what COPD is and how it is diagnosed and treated. MidState Medical Center's Respiratory Therapist Jan
St. George will explain the symptoms and causes of COPD as well as give tips for daily management. All are welcome;
please contact the library to reserve your seat. Dessert and beverages will be served. This program is co-sponsored by
MidState Medical Center and the Wallingford Public Library.
Thursday Night Book Club: In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathaniel
Philbrick Thursday, November 18 7:00 p.m. Collins Room
The 2000 National Book Award winner, In the Heart of the Sea is based on an 1820 incident that also inspired
American novelist Herman Melville to write Moby Dick. Philbrick's account follows the final trip of the whaleship
Essex as it makes what started out as a routine ocean crossing. After being rammed by an eighty-five-foot-long sperm
whale, the Essex was sunk and employing three lifeboats, the crew sailed towards Henderson Island, the only island
they knew to be safe from cannibals. And that's just part of what happened! Using as his primary source an 1821
account of the voyage written by Essex first mate Owen Chase, Philbrick's nonfiction reads like a compelling adven-
ture novel. Readers will not be able to put it down. Reserve your copy from our catalog and join us for the discussion.
All are welcome, refreshments will be served.
WWC: Wallingford Writers' Community Saturday, November 20 3:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Board Room
The Library's newly formed Wallingford Writers Community is a forum for authors and aspiring authors alike to share
their writing in an open and friendly environment. Writers will have the opportunity to talk about their writing projects,
request feedback, and obtain resources for furthering their writing. Those who wish to share their writing with the
group are asked to limit their selection to two double-spaced pages. The meeting will be moderated by Dr. Karen
Laugel, a full-time practicing pediatrician who also directs a medical fiction editing service, TheFictionDr.com. The
Wallingford Writers Community will meet monthly at the Wallingford Public Library. The next meeting is for planned
December 18, and thereafter on the fourth Saturday of each month. For more information please call the library: 203-
265-6754. Michael Handy. Never to old for trick or treat
Afternoon Book Discussion Series Continues! Literature for a Lifetime: Once Banned, Now Classic
The Awakening by Kate Chopin Monday, November 22 3:30 p.m. Collins Room
Presented in cooperation with the Connecticut Humanities Council, part 3 of this series moderated by Beth Levine will
focus on Kate Chopin's 1899 novel The Awakening.
A book, it is often said, reflects the society in which it was written. This may be especially true when the society denies
the reflection and censures the book. The books in this series, all banned at the time of publication, are now accepted as
Shirts, Hats,
classics of American literature. How can we explain this change in attitude? Does it reflect a change in actual morality
or just a change in what we're willing to see in print? What factors led these authors to create works that defied the pre-
Diecasts & More!
vailing standards of their time? Participants will examine these and related questions about censorship, rights and cre-
ativity. Teenagers and adults are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served. Copies of the books are available * Embroidery Photo Tees
from the Information Desk. Series concludes December 20, with "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger.
Computers/Technology
* Photo keepsake Home of the
Introduction to Publisher 2007 - Wednesday, November 17 2:00 p.m. Board Room ornaments ORIGINAL
Do you want to make flyers, brochures, and cards on the computer? Explore the basics of desktop publishing in this
* Etched items Photo Town Shirts!
hands-on class. Seating is limited to 6. Please register early by contacting the library.
PowerPoint 2007 - Tuesday, November 23 10:00 a.m. Board Room 106 South Colony Road * Wallingford
Build your digital presentation skills at this introduction to PowerPoint 2007. You will create and modify a slideshow,
as well as add graphics and automation. Seating is limited to 6. Please register early by contacting the library.
203 269 6802
Hours: Mon-Fri 3:45-7:30pm Sat. 9am-5pm
Computer Tutoring Sessions Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Afternoons: 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. www.willydsnascar.weebly.com
Thursday Evening: 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Computer novices are encouraged to sign up to learn keyboard or mouse skills, word processing, Internet searching,
online job applications, or e-mail. Please contact the Library or stop by the Information Desk for more details or to reg-
ister for a session. WINE FUNDRAISER
Take a Class Online for Free - Thanks to the Wallingford Public Library Development Fund, we now offer
UniversalClass to all Wallingford Library card holders. UniversalClass has over 500 professional development and
leisure classes on a range of topics, including technology. You may take up to 5 classes at a time, and you have 6
months to complete each class. Visit the Online Resources page on our web site at:
http://www.wallingford.lioninc.org/?q=onlineresources#classes to set up your account and access your classes.
Consumer Reports Online Now Available - Wallingford Library card holders may access Consumer Reports, the
trusted review source of cars and household products, via our web site. Visit our Online Resources page at
http://www.wallingford.lioninc.org/?q=onlineresources#magazine for the link to their site.
TEEN ZONE!
Star2 Club 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Community Room
The Wallingford STAR2 club is a perfect way to feed your passion for science. This free club is open to all
Wallingford students in grades K-12. Each meeting offers students the chance to participate in activities pertaining to
aviation, rocketry, space, and astronomy. Please register to ensure that there are enough materials for everyone.
Meetings will be held on the first Saturday of each month in the Library's Community Room. You may sign up online,
by phone, or in person.
Teen News - The Great Scavenger Hunt
Have you tried the Scavenger Hunt in the Teen Area yet? Look for the special display where all the books are marked
with a star. All you have to do is print out a list of questions which corresong to the book (you will find at www.kay-
cassidy.com/hunt). When you have finished reading the book and answering all the questions, hand them in at the
Information Desk. Get 8 out of 10 corret, and you are entered into a monthly drawing to win a $50.00 Barnes & Noble
gift card. Check out a Hunt title today!
Teen Book Displays
The Teen Area has many special interest book displays chock-full of good reading: Nutmeg books, Manga, graphic
novels (comics), Inspirational Reading, new stuff, Scavenger Hunt titles and more. Pick one up today!
*********************
FREE MOVIE EVENTS
Friday Night Flicks Fridays at 6:30 p.m. Community Room
November 19: The Kids Are All Right Rated R
THE BOOK SELLER
Visit the Book Seller for gently used books, videos, CDs and other items for children and adults. The entrance to the
store is located at the back of the Wallingford Public Library, next to the garage. Look for the green awning. All pro- THE WALLINGFORD ROTARY CLUB IS
ceeds from the Book Seller benefit the library.
Hours: Monday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
HOSTING A WINE EVENT IN
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. CONJUNCTION WITH THE LIBERTY BANK
COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER.
Stuffed Cabbage and Kolbasz GOUVEIA VINEYARDS ON WEDNESDAY,
The Hungarian Community Club of Wallingford is now accepting orders for Stuffed Cabbage ($16 per dozen) and
Kolbasz ($5.50 per pound).
NOVEMBER 17TH, 6 PM - 8 PM
Orders will be accepted until November 10th and can be placed by calling Barbara (203) 269-9768, Linda (203) TICKETS: $25pp, includes light fare
634-0602 or Kati (203) 213-3775. Orders can also be emailed to HCCofWallingford@gmail.com. Call Pat at 203 640-9016 for tickets,
Pickup will be on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at the club, from noon -2:30 pm, 145 Ward St, Wallingford. Please or stop in at Gallagher Travel.
remember to bring your containers for the stuffed cabbage!!
Page 10 November 2010

Wallingford Flower
& Gift Shoppe

LocalMotion - Your Town, Your News, Your Views! 190 Center Street. 203.265.1514
November 2010 • Volume 11, Issue 132

NOVEMBER CONTEST!
Enter to win a special limited edition
of The People’s Press Candle!
“Where GOOD NEWS makes PERFECT SCENTS”

It is so easy to enter!
Just email your favorite candle scent along
with your name and phone number to
stormymountain@peoplespressnews.com!
That’s it!
These special candles were made LOCALLY by The
Stormy Mountain Candle Company.
Visit www.stormymountaincandle.com
to see all the wonderful items they offer!
*The RULES - You may enter once per email address! All entries must by
sent by November 30th. The drawing will be held on Dec. 1st and all
winners will be notified by email. Prizes must be picked up at the Stormy
Mountain Candle store inside Jennifer’s House of Hair at 437 Broad
www.stormymountaincandle.com Street in Meriden.
 Page 11 November 2010

"ArleneWow!" HIGHLAND-YALESVILLE PTO CRAFT FAIR

As a singer-songwriter, I am extremely thankful for the seed of thought that evokes a Highland and Yalesville PTO will hold a Craft Fair on Saturday, December 4,
new song during the songwriting process. A song is an expression of a feeling that could 2010 from 9 AM to 3 PM at Highland School, 200 Highland Avenue,
quickly elude you if you are not ready to accept it. It needs love and attention to bring it Wallingford,. There will be over 65 crafters selling holiday gifts, ornaments,
forth into reality. It is as if a new life has entered the physical world from someplace florals, candy, art work, sewing and quilted items, gift baskets, jewelry, cards,
outside of our existence. It is truly a birthing experience. etc. Refreshments are available and admission is free. For further informa-
The song, if nourished and cared for, will flourish into a beautiful creation that brings tion contact Carole Eager at careager@aol.com or (203) 235-0195.
joy to all those who open their hearts to it. When the seed of creation is planted in the I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that
soil, it can grow to incredible proportions. As the new sprout emerges from the earth in gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder. ~G.K. Chesterton
the spring, it is reminiscent to the cooing of a newborn. It is not quite a formed melody,
but there is wonder in its innocence. Everything is new. There is no right or wrong. Just
pure bliss. CELEBRATIONS
As the song grows into a small child, it is extremely playful. Because it is still young, it thrives on the beginner's
mind of the writer where everything is sweet and experimental. There is no room for censoring or erasing for good
growth is consistent with trying out new things.
Some songs have a hard and ornery disposition during adolescence. Here is a period where a song may stall or com-
pletely disappear if care is not taken to continue to allow the growth process. Miraculously, some songs pass through
this time as a straight A student. There are no bumps in the road...only smooth sailing (here's a spot for heavy duty
thankfulness). Please note: A complete and incredible song can be written in five minutes or over the course of many
years. As the parent, a writer must be extremely patient for all children are individuals as it is their right.
As a young adult, a song may bear fruit that ripens into more meaningful words and intricate chord progressions for
now there may be an important message that the complicated world needs to hear. Sometimes at this point it is easy to
overdo it. There is so much to say in such little time. It is best here to keep it simple.
A completed song can be deemed its adult stage. Beware, always allow room for change. Sometimes brand new
directions can take place within a song that has become "long in the tooth". The writer should never see a song as
being completely done. This endangers it into becoming a boring and lethargic piece of static. Too much love has been
placed into this being thus far for this to take place. It would just be an injustice.
Here is a place to reflect and rest for a while. The writer can now give thanks that the child has grown into a loving
and respectable adult.
Lastly, a well crafted songs never dies. It lives on in the heart of all who remember its melody.
On Thanksgiving, and at any time that you are listening to your favorite composer or songwriter, please take a moment
to thank the universe for allowing such beautiful songs to enrich our lives. Music really does make it all better. Hershey & Boo
Happy Thanksgiving! 'R! www.arlenewow.com Hershey and Boo, sister and brother, are looking for their forever home.
Thanksgiving; A time for giving thanks Hershey is a female, long haired, and Boo is a male, short haired. Earlier
circumstances left Hershey with a permanent but charming head tilt, which
A Remembering Time
has no effect on her ability to live a full life.
Particles of memory begin to drift downwards and float quietly upon this page. Can it just be 31 months ago I first
They are about 5 months old, spayed/neutered, tested negative for FELV
heard you speak to me? How incredible that seems as I sit here now remembering one day in early February (1982).
and FIV, up-to-date with all their shots and have been treated for parasites.
Neither one of us could have known then how one phone call would forever change our lives, especially mine. I
If possible Hershey & Boo would love to live together.
remember the way my throat felt, so terribly dry, and how my heart pounded with nervousness, indeed fear. What
Friends of Feral Cheshire Cats, helping Wallingford cats. For more infor-
would I do if this man on the phone were really my brother? What would he say to me?
After I put the phone down on that day of February 5th, I began to worry. I almost tried to forget you. What had I mation, please contact Kathy at 203-213-0972.
done? The question loomed so vaguely over me and so ominously. I felt con-
fused.

AVANTI
Our lives began to change.
After 32 years of being apart, I met you in June. And I was frightened. I
didn't know you, and you seemed so different from how I pictured myself.
The way you were dressed, your beard, the way you broke the filters off of
your cigarettes, your manner of speech - these things all seemed so remote to
me. I remember drinking beer to hide my discomfort, and I held a gnawing
Restaurant & Lounge
thought - that I had made a mistake. Perhaps 32 years of absence should have

Your Total Satisfaction

been left alone.
I hid my doubts and even joked with friends about our meeting. I didn't
take you seriously. I felt sure that, given time, we would forget about each
other and I could go on with my life as it had been before. I was accustomed
to taking care of myself and had no family obligations. I did not want the Is Our Favorite Recipe!
responsibilities which seemed inevitable if I were to know you. So I held you
aside. I wanted you to disappear. Perhaps I could forget that I ever found you.
But you entered my life. Though I tried to close the door, you crept in
slowly and stood waiting on the threshold. And in time you became a light in
my otherwise darkened world. You would not let me drift away from you,
and you became a shelter. You were strong and calming, and offered me a
respite from my harried and troubled life.
I don't remember the exact moment I knew that you, a stranger for so
many years, were truly my own brother. I can't recall when the word "love"
best described what I felt for you. But as the weeks and months steadily
moved past, I recognized my love had grown to incredible depths.
How did it happen? For what purpose were we kept apart so long and then
allowed to meet once more? What did we need to learn in our absence from
each other, and what did we learn by being brought together? I may never
know the answers.
I only know how very deeply and permanently you have touched my life.
As time progresses, I begin to sense I have always known you. I believe
Now is the time to reserve your Holiday Event at
AVANTI
you were with me spiritually as I was growing up. I often spoke of wanting
an older brother, and I think, indeed, you were with me, and I believe it was
only a question of time before I would be able to see you, and know you as a
brother, and love you as a very dear and special friend.
So with gratitude, I thank you for being there, for accepting me into your
life, and for giving me more love than I can ever return to you. Family Party or Special Event?
Thank you, George, and a happy third birthday to you in our lives togeth-
er!
Plan your party with us! Parties for up to 60 people are our
10/5/84 - On this Thanksgiving, give thanks for your family, please. Turn off specialty. We also offer off premises catering and party platters to go.
the TV, the cell phones and other distractions. Concentrate on what each
other has to say around the table as you enjoy dinner. There are so many peo-
ple who do not have families and will not be home for dinner this year with
Open for Lunch and Dinner Featuring:
any family members. Keep these people in your prayers and thank God for *Southern and Northern Italian Cuisine
the families you do have. Remember the moment, file it away, and maybe 26 * Veal, Chicken & Seafood Specialties
years from now you can also share it. Make sure they are good memories. No
sense in storing bad ones. So be positive. I thank God for The People's Press, * Large Selection of Salads * Pizza * Grinders
once again, for allowing me to share this story. Thank you, Andy and Dawn, * Homemade Burgers * Specialty Wraps
and Sierra, Josh, and Shaunessy, and may you have a wonderful
Thanksgiving together!!!!! “Come visit and enjoy one of our finely prepared meals in the
Barbara (Arndt) Sherburne - barndt49@yahoo.com comfort of our new dining and lounge areas”
(George's birthday was October 5th. He turned 68 this year. I met him when
I was 32. The story about locating my biological family was covered in a 34 River Road in South Meriden
203-4
440-9
9990
year, 12 issues in this paper, mostly in the 2003 issues. I think it ended in the
January issue of 2004. And, yes, we are still connected all these many years
later. 28 years.)
Page 12 November 2010
Remember God's bounty in the year. String the pearls of His favor. Hide the
Home Is Where You'll Find Me dark parts, except so far as they are breaking out in light! Give this one day
Colleen Totz Diamond to thanks, to joy, to gratitude! ~Henry Ward Beecher
I spent my twenties living in an old Indiana farmhouse in an old Indiana neighborhood called Irvington, named after

CELEBRATIONS
Washington Irving. The house was a stone and stucco giant, built in the 1890s, and then rebuilt, in part, in 1906 after it
was damaged by a tornado. I shared the house with five cats, a dog, many bats, more birds, yet more squirrels, a chip-
munk, and a belligerent raccoon. I fed and cleaned up after the animals, never able to shake the feeling that they were
the rightful owners of the place, and I was a mere impostor who happened to pay the mortgage. Check out Corbin! He was walking
Over the years, it occurred to me that I was perhaps in fact an impostor to the whole region of the country, and that around going
after an eleven-year run, I was homesick for New England, for Connecticut, for Wallingford, for home. So I moved
home, within spitting distance of a decent seafood dinner and what I like to call, "real pizza." I moved home to recon-
nect with the biggest, most loving extended family a person could want. I moved home, and I wondered why I ever left.
rawr and
In 2005, my husband and I were married, and in 2008, we moved from Wallingford to Meriden. We love Meriden. We
discover a new place to eat or hang out every weekend. Last weekend, we discovered The Lunchbox on East Main
Street - great steamed cheeseburgers. Today, I noticed that there are several diners with window signs boasting steamed
nomnomnom
cheeseburgers. We may have to try more than one! because that is what a real dinosaur
Our house and yard are cozy, home to people and animals alike. We have, in our backyard, four squirrels, many cardi-
nals, more robins, two blue jays, a woodchuck (named "Mel," after Dr. Mel), a chipmunk, the occasional mouse, and at says!
any given moment, a transient murder of crows. We also have three cats. I feed the cats - our giant oak tree feeds the
others. Meriden is home to me and Dave just as much as it is to the critters who claim our backyard. We enjoy the crit-
ters, and they at least tolerate us.
I've been back in Wallingford, and now Meriden, for twelve years. My memory was interrupted by eleven years of
CELEBRATIONS
Midwestern mayhem - that raccoon outlasted me - but home is of the blood. You don't forget your home. Your home
doesn't forget you, either. No matter how different you look, or how silly you feel, or how much you fumble with small
talk, home welcomes you back and walks you through the conversation.
I'm happy to be here, and I'm thrilled that Andy invited me to write for the People's Press News. Let's spend some
time rediscovering our home together. I'll tell my stories, and you tell yours.

St. Joseph School Christmas Carnival

Please join us for St. Joseph School's Annual Christmas Bazaar/Carnival on December 3rd from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and
December 4th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. We will have games for the kids, pictures with Santa, crafts for sale, our "cookie
walk," delicious food and fun for all! We hope to see you there!
Thanksgiving Day is a jewel, to set in the hearts of honest men; but be careful that you
do not take the day, and leave out the gratitude. ~E.P. Powell

Happy 7th Birthday Steph!

Wished I had gotten a limo ride for my birthday!

CELEBRATIONS

Holiday Tree & Item Display

Silent Auction
Saturday, November 13, through
Monday, December 13, 2010
Trees will be on display at all Events at the Center
Come out and see this beautiful display of
trees, wreaths, and centerpieces donated by
The Cuomo's and The Lewias out trick or treating!!
local businesses and non-profit organiza-
tions all over the City of Meriden. Bid on
your favorite item for yourself or a special CELEBRATIONS
gift for the Holidays, if you have the win-
ning bid items from the Holiday
Auction can be picked up on Dec. 14th
& 15th. 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
item brings in...
There is no admission fee
to view the trees.....Center
will be open daily. Please
call for times! Fall Work Party
175 East Main Street in The Wallingford Land Trust will have a fall work party at Orchard/Spruce
Glen properties on Saturday, November 20th 9:00 to clean up areas. Wear
Meriden 203.639.2856 warm clothing, bring gloves and water. The property can be reached off of
www.curtisculturalcenter.org Route 68 to the end of Barnes Industrial Park North. Meet at WLT sign.
For more information please contact David Ellis at 203-269-9779. Or
check the website at: www.wallingfordlandtrust.org.
 Page 13 November 2010

It's November (already)…

…a musing by Ernie Larsen CELEBRATIONS
And here I sit the day after the election not knowing the name of my new Governor; not that it makes that much differ-
ence - I'm really not a political person, however I am going to make one comment. I saw the 'teaser' on the news on
how Connecticut did not follow the rest of the country and vote out all the Democrats - well you know how we New
Englanders complain about the weather, something over which we have no control - then something comes along over
which the populous (voters) has direct input and can exercise complete control, the election. Then in our little corner of
CT what happened, all the incumbents were voted back into office. Granted, some were unopposed (shame) and in the
other 'races' there weren't really any standouts in the opposition. I know people are going to begin complaining about
how the State is being run (again) - my answer, you had your chance!
Okay, stepping off his soapbox.
As I mentioned, it is November 3rd, only 22 days to Thanksgiving; this year the traditional dinner will not be at our
home. Nope, the kitchen is scheduled to be demolished and a new and improved facility built. So, my brother and sis-
ter-in-law have taken the reins and will be hosting. A enthusiastic thank you to them. Now I just have to find a place to
make a couple of items I was going to spring on the family this year - I always used to make creamed pearl onions and
my Aunt Carmen and I were the only ones who ate them. Last year I was urged not to make them and although I
missed having them, Carmen didn't even ask where they were. So, they're out again.
I always want to make a different type of stuffing however since my lovely wife is in charge of turkey roasting it's
the traditional Pepperidge Farm herbed stuffing, which is perfectly fine. I remember when we were first married and
she was in charge of Thanksgiving - she made giblet stuffing, grinding the neck and the other offal that is packed in a
plastic bag stuffed in the cavity of the turkey. If those partaking of the dinner back then knew what they were eating,
well! And these were her sisters who came from a meat and potato-dining environment. When Mary served stuffed Spiderman riding the hayride along with some guests at the Character
peppers, this was radical; I remember one of her sisters telling someone that Ernie and Mary were eating stuffed Hayride that was held at Norton Farms in Cheshire on October 30th &
gourds, can you imagine that? October 31st. The proceeds of the character hayride are going to benefit
Thanksgiving 2010 - what to make that all might partake? Thinking back, I remember the Yankee Silversmith Inn the scholarship for a coach who recently passed away. The high school
along with their wonderful popovers always served a basket of breads to each table. Hey, everyone likes a warm bun kids volunteered their time dressing up as characters to help with this
before a meal so I thought this would be a good idea. All I remember from the YS selection was date-nut bread and worthwhile scholarship.
some sort of dinner rolls. Then while removing items from the kitchen before it the demo, I found my cast iron corn
stick mold; hey, they would be a fine addition to the bread basket and actually sort of complement the holiday. You
know, corn, which the natives introduced to the Pilgrims and all that. Now just to find a place to bake everything, I
guess my daughter will be having some company in her kitchen, the corn stick mold only makes 5 at a time, so it is a
$ CASH PAID FOR $
bit labor intensive. Then I'm going to do a sweet bread, got some nice dried figs yesterday - may pair them with
macadamia nuts. For the dinner rolls, I'm leaning toward a buttermilk biscuit, which I want to serve warm, so I'll just
prep these and bake them off when I get to my brothers house. By now you may be thinking, pretty ambitious just for
Toyotas, Hondas, Nissan,
bread. Not really, well for me that is, I like to cook, bake etc. But, you say, what about the refrigerated rolls, crescents,
biscuits and the like - sure they are one step above store bought bakery items, although Stew Leonard sells what they Suzukis, Subarus, Geo -
call a snowball roll - Yum-O! But I'm sticking to my idea, can't do the dinner, so have to contribute in other ways.
Then I'm going to check with the local soup kitchen and see what they could use for their 'holiday' meal. Last year I
bought up a bunch of holiday pies at the local supermarket that just moved to Wallingford - I always get into that
Any Condition. Running
''make sure everyone has a good holiday'' feeling and this year is no exception. Hope the weather keeps up its no pre-
cipitation policy and we can expect a great Stoddard Bowl with records of both Platt and Maloney both doing so well
this year it should be an outstanding competition.
or not crashed and
And just getting back to the election, I read one of the most amusing Reader's Opinion Letters (in Meriden's daily
paper) I've seen in quite some time. The writer Dave Swedock declares November 2nd as 'Independence Day' when all burned. Other makes
the negative political advertising ends. Then he mentions getting back to the 'good and wholesome stuff' like erectile
dysfunction, pharmaceutical ads that offer side effects of nausea and even death, and then the perils of violent video
games; it was a true taste of reality. To read the entire letter, it's not long, see the Meriden RJ for Sunday 10/31/10, page
and models. Motorcycles,
C8. Thanks for the laugh, Dave.
Halloween , October 31, was not only for trick or treater's, it was my father's birthday - I just ciphered it out - he
would have been 97 on Sunday; Happy B'day to the original Poppa.
ATVs and more.
That's all I've got - don't forget the less fortunate in the coming holiday season.
Call 203-600-4431
What Thanksgiving Means to Me
By Lisa Brewster
Thanksgiving is a time of year I look forward to being with my family. My
son Sean will be coming home for the Thanksgiving break from college and
my Mom and Stepfather will fly up from Myrtle Beach. I look back at past
Thanksgivings and remember how much bigger the family used to be.
Slowly over the years our group has gotten smaller and smaller. We will be
celebrating this year at my sister's home. My sister, brother-in-law, niece, 3
nephews, my Mom, Step dad, husband, sons Sean and Brandon and myself
will all gather around the large dining room table for a Thanksgiving feast.
We will have a turkey of course, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, mashed
potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, brown sugared glazed carrots and
shrimp. Desserts will include the usual pumpkin, pecan, blueberry, apple and
chocolate cream pies.
Everyone sits around the table and my Mom always says grace. This is the
time we all reflect on our relatives who could not be with us and thank God
for all our blessings. This is also a time when we pray for those who are in
need. I myself take special part in the needy during the year, but especially
during the holidays. My family and I always give as much food as we can to
the Food Bank, help volunteer for the annual Coat drive/sale to help those
needy families keep warm this winter, and donate to the Toys for Tots for the
children this Christmas. Thanksgiving is a time we need to be thankful for
our health and all the things we have. It is also a time to help one another so
that everyone can have Thanksgiving.
I am thankful for my family, friends, employment, home, clothes and car
and most importantly I am thankful to be able to make a difference in other
peoples lives so they too can have things to be thankful for too.

Calling all former Wallingford Powder Puff players! and take your pick from the apples,
pears for the best tasting pies.
The Powder Puff Alumni Committee is looking for volunteers from past
Lyman Hall and Sheehan teams to help man the 2nd annual alumni tent at this
year's Samaha Bowl game, the day before Thanksgiving, at Sheehan High
School. Volunteers will be asked to help set up the tent, gather supplies, help
sell tickets & programs, and help clean up the tent at the end of the game.
Please help continue to make this new tradition a success! For more informa-
tion, please email us at powderpuffalumni@aol.com, or call Cecily at 203-
213-5949.
Boosters for the game program are available for purchase for $5 by con-
tacting us at the above number and email address.

Wallingford Turkey Dinner

THE EVANGELICAL & REFORMED U.C.C. WILL HAVE THEIR ANNU- Open Tuesday-Friday 12pm-6pm Sat-Sun 10am-5pm Closed Mon.
AL TURKEY DINNER WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS ON NOVEMBER
21,2010 AT THE CHURCH HALL AT 105 SO. CHERRY ST. AT NOON
RAFFLE DONATION: $10.00 COME AND JOIN US.
Page 14 November 2010
Register for Late Fall Swim Lessons!!
Community Thanksgiving in Wallingford Swim Lessons available for all ages throughout the entire year! Lessons
By Nancy Freyburg - Coordinator available in our warm water instructional pool as well as in our competitive
Every year I am always asked this one question by a first time reporter to the holiday community dinners, "Why do lap pool. Private swim lessons also available. Pre-registration is required. For
you give up your holidays to do this?" For 29 years I have given the same answer. "Look around. Pull up a chair. Stay more information; please contact Lisa Hoover lhoover@wallingfordymca.org
awhile. Then ask me again." They never do. On Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, I get to enjoy the world exactly
the way I think God intended it to be. We come together in friendship to be with, and to serve one another. We have CELEBRATIONS
created a huge family that loves to come home year after year. That is the goal of the dinners, to make people feel like
they are coming "home."
Thirty years ago I was out for a walk. I heard a voice say, "find a place and cook. No one should be alone for the
holidays". I don't want you to worry that I often hear voices, but that one was pretty clear! We started at the Advent
Christian church on Whittlesey Avenue. About 35 people attended that first dinner. We added Christmas the next year
and began serving Easter Dinner about 15 years ago. As the dinners grew and needed more space, we moved to St.
Paul's Episcopal Church for many wonderful years and now enjoy a tremendous partnership with the First
Congregational Church. People from every church in town and every walk of life support the community dinners,
which have grown in every direction.
Although Thanksgiving is the largest dinner, with 250 - 400 people eating in the fellowship hall, Christmas and
Easter are close behind. We also send about 250 meals and visits out to the home bound each holiday, and provide food
for two other communities so that they might enjoy the holidays too. Baskets with turkeys and all the trimmings are
given to families at Thanksgiving who want to cook at home, and we "adopt" individuals and families at Christmas,
providing them with food baskets, gifts, and whatever is needed. The Christmas Adopt - A - Family Program has
extended to a school supplies program in the Fall that sends many kids back to school well equipped with clothes, back
packs, lunch boxes, note books, pens, pencils, and so much of what they need to be successful in school.
As the dinners and everything attached to them has grown, we have affectionately renamed it "God's Dinner". It
really takes a miracle of faith and spirit to bring it all together. This is all done with volunteers who share their time,
talent, energy, and great kindness to make these holidays wonderful for so many. The food is all donated. Even though
the dinners are so large, all the food is home made, hand made, heart made and healthy! We want every participant to 4 years ago 11/22/06 my best friend left us to
feel like they are coming home for the holidays. Individuals bring in pies and other home made desserts while find his inner peace. Love ya brother. Timbro
Brownies, CCD and high school cooking classes bring over pans of the best cookies ever! Dennis Bonito brings his
guitar and keyboards and plays and sings all afternoon. It is simply amazing and heart warming to be part of this effort.
Every one who works on the "dinners" is blessed by it. It is the best example I have ever seen of people joining CELEBRATIONS
together to make our world a little safer, softer, and with such kindness. I give up nothing and gain everything to be
part of this! The blessings are too many to name.
Here is what I need as we move in to this wonderful season. There is a place for everyone who wants to help. We
need volunteers on the actual holidays to help set up, serve, deliver meals to the home bound, and clean up. We need
help ahead of time in the kitchen doing prep work and cooking turkeys. We also need donations of time, talent, food
and money. Anyone who wants to volunteer, make a financial contribution, or donation of food should call the office at
203-284-8299. We are happy to tell you what we need.
Dinner is served noon - 2pm Thanksgiving and Christmas day. The meal is free and transportation will be provided
as needed. The meal is for anyone who wants to spend the day with others and have a great time.
My thanks to all of you who never forget to share yourselves with others. It makes us all better.

There’s the only reason why Matthew went to baseball games this season.

Carrie Purcell
Energy Medicine Practitioner

The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center has started a - Relax and De-stress
Meriden Garden Club. Be a part of it!
Just in Time for the Holidays! - Relief from Chronic Pain
A SPECIAL HOLIDAY MEETING!
Dec. 1st - Special Presentation which will be a creative evening for the - Improved Healing from Surgery
Holidays using items from your own back yard to make Holiday
Decorations with Edie Marcantonio from Rose Flowers & Gifts - Personal Growth

For more information

visit www.carriepurcell.com
To schedule an appointment
If you would like to be a part of the Meriden Garden Club and its mission to
beautify Meriden and attend courses and fun call the A.C.C.C. at 203-639-2856
call 203.623.7386

Annual Holiday Parranda to be at John Barry
The 17th Annual Holiday Parranda will be held on Friday, December 3, 2010
at the John Barry School Cafeteria, 124 Columbia Street, Meriden from 6:00
to 9:00 p.m.
A Parranda is the Spanish version of Christmas caroling that is popular in
Puerto Rico. Hector Cardona Sr., a Meriden police officer, his family band
and the Voices of Christmas singers will entertain with traditional holiday
songs. Some of the songs include "El Coqui" (Island Frog), and "La Vida
Campesina" (The Country Life). Refreshments 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
MidState Medical Center, the Meriden Police Department, and John Barry
School.
For more information, please call MAWSAC at 203-294-3591.
Time for Mocktails and More!
Hi Everyone, It's that time of year again when we start entertaining and
looking for new recipes for beverages and appetizers. The Meriden and
Wallingford Substance Abuse Council is putting together its annual
"Mocktails & More" recipe booklet of non-alcohol drinks and appetizers. We
look forward to your participation in this project to draw from the creativity
of people in our communities. Please submit your favorite recipes to us for
this year's booklet? Please send me your recipes by December 1, 2010. If
you have any question, please email or call me. Thanks so much! We know
that the 2010 edition of the "Mocktails & More" recipe booklet will provide
interesting recipes for the holiday festivities!
Christelle Aube - Prevention Coordinator Meriden and Wallingford
Substance Abuse Council, Inc. P O Box 307 Wallingford, CT 06492 203-
294-3591
Kids invited to meet Mikulas (Father Christmas)
The Hungarian Community Club invites all children - young and old - to
meet Mikulas (Father Christmas) on Sunday, December 5th. Doors open at 2
pm and there will be activities for the children before Mikulas arrives around
2:30 pm. Reservations are requested, and info on the children (naughty or
nice? names and ages) to ensure every child receives a goodies bag and per-
sonal attention from Mikulas. Please call Linda 203-634-0602 or Bobbie
203-623-7674 or email HCCofWallingford@gmail.com. Donations will be
gratefully accepted to help defray costs. The club is located at 147 Ward St,
Wallingford.
The Chabad Jewish Center presents "Loaves of Love" - Challah Baking Class
Join fellow women and girls in the community for a wonderful evening
where each participant will learn to make their own batch of Challah dough
and braid it into Challah Loaves!With Thanksgiving just a week
away......make one Challah loaf for someone special or someone you are
thankful for.....and surprise them with your freshly baked challah! Each par-
ticipant will bring home 4-6 Challah loaves. The class will take place at The
Chabad Jewish Center, 174 Center Street, Wallingford on Wednesday,
November 17th at 7:30pm. Please RSVP so that the proper amount of mate-
rials are prepared! chabadwallingford@sbcglobal.net or (203)265-4012. The
Good fences make good
neighbors...Surveys from
Stone Wall Boundaries, LLC
make even better ones.
STONE WALL BOUNDARIES,LLC
SURVEYING & MAPPING
PAUL BUCKLEY REYNOLDS
PROFESSIONAL LAND SURVEYOR
* Boundary Surveys
* Historical Deed Research
* Construction Layouts
* Specialized Mapping
A Land Surveyor Dedicated To Fulfilling
The Needs Of The Property Owner
203-889-8564
P.O. BOX 4256 YALESVILLE, CT 06492
Page 15 November 2010
1st Annual Wreaths Across America Fundraiser
Meriden's Silver City, Civil Air Patrol is sponsoring their 1st Annual Wreaths Across America Fundraiser.
A Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony to Honor Veterans will take place on Saturday Dec. 11, 2010 at Noon. Location
will be Walnut Grove Cemetery, 817 Old Colony Rd, Meriden, CT
We request the presence of Military Men and Women and their families during this event. The public is invited to
attend. Our Squadron is seeking Wreath Sponsors and Volunteers.
Each Wreath costs $15.00 and will be delivered to the designated cemetery prior to the actual wreath ceremony.
Please add sponsorship ID# CTCAP014 along with Cemetery info: CTWGCM to the form below
Wreath Sponsorship Form
Please visit our website for sponsorship forms or call Laura L. Tiezzi, Senior Member, Civil Air Patrol -CT014 Wreaths
across America-Location Leader (203)427-1767 to volunteer
*Sponsored wreaths are placed on the grave markers at state, national veterans cemeteries as well as local cemeteries
each December. Wreaths may be purchased online at www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org
If you wish to make your sponsorship with a credit card please visit our website for a secure online transaction.
**WE DO NOT TAKE GRAVE SPECIFIC REQUESTS**
Our Mission:
Remember.. the Fallen, Honor.. those who serve, Teach....Our Children The Value of Freedom
Checks can be made out to: Wreaths Across America TM
Please send ALL checks and sponsorship forms to: CAP c/o Captain-Roger Malagutti, 23 Colonial Drive, Prospect,
CT 06712
Thank You In Advance,
Laura L. Tiezzi, Senior Member, Civil Air Patrol -CT014 Wreaths Across America-Location Leader (203)427-1767 to
volunteer
Wallingford Home Energy Savings Program Will Help to Save Money
Wallingford Electric Division (WED) residential customers can make their homes more energy efficient and lower their
annual energy bills by about $150 by having a home energy evaluation done through WED's Home Energy Savings
(HES) program.
Wallingford Electric customers who heat with oil and qualify for the program will receive hundreds of dollars worth
of installed energy efficiency products and services for a co-pay of only $25. The co-pay normally is $50 but
Competitive Resources Inc. (CRI) of Wallingford will pay $25 of the co-pay for the first 100 oil-heat customers who
have an energy assessment done. The remainder of the program is funded by WED's energy conservation fund.
However, funding is limited
CRI will conduct the home energy assessment, which includes identifying and professionally sealing critical air
leaks, replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps, providing water conservation devices and more.
On average, customers will receive over $700 worth of services and installed energy efficiency products.
CRI is a home energy efficiency service company, based in Wallingford, and the authorized HES provider for mem-
bers of the Connecticut Municipal Electrical Energy Cooperative, including WED.
Wallingford Electric customers can schedule an appointment by calling 888-403-3500 or by going to
www.HESMuni.com.
Dec 10th at StudioW
studioW is a venue and local television program encouraging artists (with more to offer than your average silly love
song) to bring content to our OPEN MIC. Dec 10th will be our First Event in a new series of Fridays - where we aim
to fuse our voices in the hope that truth may be heard.
To be a member of the audience send an email to otpg@comcast.net. Seating is limited. No Admission costs.
Reservations needed to guarantee seating. Doors open at 8:30 PM.
Performers interested in being part of studioW in the 2011 season of Fridays, should send contact info to
otpg@comcast.net. This includes acoustic musicians, comedians, poets, actors, playwrights with readers, and visual
artisans.
This event exists to serve the community. Art is a part of collective identity, through which our individual perspec-
tives are shared - as we strive to grow together. To be selected to join us in this OPEN MIC as a performer, or to select
our OPEN MIC as the venue to serve your desires/needs as an audience member, is to make a decision to come togeth-
er, to hear each other, and to visualize - where to go from here.
StudioW is located at WPAA-TV 29 So. Orchard St. Wallingford
LocalMotion - Local Business! To advertise with Wallingford and Meridens Community NewsMagazine, The
People's Press - Call Andy Reynolds at 203.235.9333 or email him at andy@peoplespressnews.com.
Give Thanks
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 16 November 2010
Dear Housewives - Central Connecticut's Know It All Gals
Dear Readers, Do you have a question regard-
ing family life, budgeting, customer service
issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organi-
zation? We will give you our candid advice
from a family perspective.
Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail at people-
spress@peoplespressnews.com with your confi-
dential question and we will answer it in the
next issue. - June and Flora
Dear Housewives, Do you have to give a
friend's child a gift even if they don't have a
birthday party? My friend is not having a
party for her son but we have been friends
for a while. Do I have to give a gift; money
is tight? - Hate to be cheap in Meriden
JUNE: The short answer is yes. If you are good friends you should get her son a gift. It does
not need to be extravagant but you should have something nicely wrapped along with a nice card.
Most stores have clearance areas where you can get some small toy or game for under $10 marked
down.
FLORA: If you cannot afford it, don't go off the budget or spend money you do not have. What
you can do is this: Send a card. You can also include an invite to an afternoon of fun (take him to
the park, or hiking on a trail). You can pack a lunch and make it a fun outing without going out of
budget.
JUNE: Oh Flora, do lollipops and gumballs float through your head when you sleep? What kid
would be happy to have his mom's friend come over and give him a hike and a pb & j for his
birthday. No thank you. The amount you will spend on the lunch, put into a small gift and wrap
it, you will get a better response.
Dear Housewives, My best friend's kid hit mine, can I scold her child if it happens again or
will it cause problems with my friend? Both our children are age nine. - Tension brewing in
CT
FLORA: If you scream, yell and over-react, that may cause a problem with your friend. If you
calmly and firmly correct him (if his Mom did not already) it should not be a problem. If you see
a pattern of hitting, talk with the mom (your best friend) to discuss how you both can work at this because I didn't want to lower the quality of their food or deprive them of their special treats.
situation.
JUNE: This is a tricky situation. It is a thin line to walk. At that age, they should be old enough which I was able to cut back on my pet expenses.
to work it out themselves. If you have to get involved, if it was one sided and severe, then you
really should be able to say something to her child and to her. Hopefully, your friend will scold
her own child appropriately. If it was minimal and both kids were involved, let them figure it out. coupons, it didn't happen as often as I need them. Plus, those small packages don't go very far,
They are nine and equipped to work it out alone. They will get over it quickly; it is the parents
that sometimes can't let it go.
How do YOU become a part of the
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www.peoplespressnews.com 203-235-9333
Let's Chat
JUNE: Hi Flora, It has been a busy fall so far. My last and littlest "June" started preschool. I
have a bit of empty nest syndrome with three whole hours alone each day. My house should be a
lot cleaner. I thought I would have so much time to get things done but I don't. My middle June
broke his little arm. He was in a long, over the elbow, cast for the past month. Now a short cast
and he should be free by Halloween. My eldest June just made his JV basketball team so he is
busy with basketball. I had jury duty but the murder trial I was on got postponed and we were all
sent home. Of course, our house is filled with football, apples (we picked 24 lbs) and pumpkins.
Enjoy your season.
FLORA: It is funny how three hours whizzes by when the children are in school. I hope you can
find a way to pack in a lot of your homemaker duties in those 3 hours! Great to hear that the cast
will be off by Halloween; he will be glad for that!
I am reading a lot. Poor Gone With the Wind has been put on pause, yet again, so I can read
Michael Savage's Trickle Up Poverty. My goal is to finish that by November 2nd. I am also read-
ing the book of Jeremiah in the Bible. Jeremiah was God's spokesman during the time when Israel
and Judah were disobeying God over and over again; their hearts were turned away. They were
warned than destruction came upon them. There is hope and restoration involved.
JUNE: Wow, Flora, sounds like a real "barn burner". No risk of sleepless nights because you
can't put your book down in your house.
LOCAL PLAYHOUSE: We went to the Castle Craig Players together to see 12 Angry Jurors. It
was fantastic! The actors portrayed a group of jurors deliberating a death penalty case and they
got very heated and nasty to each other. This is an adaptation of a movie that was well known in
its time called 12 Angry Men. It starred Henry Fonda and Jack Klugman. We really had a fun
time, the playhouse is small but the acting was big and well worth the cost. Look them up and go
see a play. You won't regret it and you will probably be doing something new. Enjoy and tell 'em
Flora and June sent you ;).
Here is wishing all of our Dear Readers a wonderful autumn season!
Frugal Living in Connecticut
By Gina Juliano
Being frugal isn't always easy when you have pets. I should know - I have five indoor cats and
two dogs. In addition, I also feed two of the outside neighborhood cats. If I wasn't careful, I
could easily spend a small fortune on pet food, treats, and litter.
When I decided to become a "coupon queen" and go frugal, that decision wasn't just for the
human inhabitants of my house. Pets were included as well. This presented some problems
Although I haven't had to resort to buying cheaper/less quality food, there were other ways in
1. Cat treats - With five cats who expect (okay, demand!) their treats every morning, buying treats
got very expensive. Although I was sometimes able to get treats very cheaply or free with
and at more than $1 each it wasn't a frugal thing to do. As an experiment, I bought a large bag
(with coupons, of course) of a Purina Cat Chow to see if my furry friends would find this accept-
able as "treats". To my surprise and delight, they liked it even better than their Pounce! Although
I would never feed my cats Purina Cat Chow as their steady diet, I find it is
fabulous at treats. It's sort of like kitty junk food. And at about $1 per pound,
it's extremely frugal.
2. Cat litter - My friend, Becky, who owns Hidden Treasures Adoption Center
for Cats, recommends the use of a litter like World's Best Cat Litter. This is a
natural and biodegradable cat litter made from corn that can be actually
flushed down the toilet or composted. In addition, it is much healthier for
your cat than the clay type litter because it is less dusty; and it clumps, so
scooping is easy. However, she freely admits World's Best Cat Litter is outra-
geously expensive. Thankfully, Becky has a great substitute for this type of
litter. Believe it or not, game bird feed in the crumbles form is exactly the
same as World's Best Cat Litter. You can find huge 50 lb bags of this at
Tractor Supply for about $13 (Dumor Brand) and Meriden Feed and Supply
for about $14.50 (Blue Seal brand). Because this product is much lighter than
your average clay scooping litter, the bag is HUGE and lasts for much longer.
I have four litter boxes for my five cats, and one of these bags lasts me almost
two months.
3. Dog Treats - My dogs aren't as fussy as the cats when it comes to treats. In
fact, they'll eat almost anything. I have found that they especially like raw
carrots, though. I got this trick from my vet when she told me one of my dogs
was getting a little porky around the middle. Buying a huge bag of carrots is
much more cost effective than buying dog treats, even with coupons. Plus, it's
much healthier. I still buy regular dog treats on occasion, but I've found the
bulk package of raw carrots is just fine.
4. Pet Medications - This is one of the most expensive parts of pet ownership.
Heart worm and flea medications alone can be incredibly expensive. The only
way to make these things somewhat affordable is going through online pet
medication companies like Pet RX or 1-800 Pet Meds. In addition, I always
try to buy in bulk so I get free shipping.
5. Adopting a New Pet - If you are looking to add a new member to your
household, I strongly urge you to go through the Humane Society or an adop-
tion center like Hidden Treasures
(http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/CT237.html). First, there are so many
dogs and cats in need of new homes that there really isn't a good reason to buy
a pet from a breeder. Second, adopting through a place like Hidden Treasures
is actually very frugal.
Believe it or not, getting a "free" kitten isn't really free. You have to take it
to the vet for shots and to be spayed/neutered. When all is said and done,
you've spend at least $300 and a bunch of time running back and forth to vet
appointments. Conversely, a donation of $120 is expected when you adopt a
kitten through Hidden Treasures and the kitten you get is fully vetted. Plus,
you aren't the one who had to run back and forth to the vet! Cats are less
expensive to adopt, but again, they are fully vetted and healthy. Furthermore,
if anything should go wrong in the future, Hidden Treasures will ALWAYS
help with the problem or take the cat/kitten back without question.
I hope my little tidbits of information help you save money with your furry
beasts. Remember, you can also find free samples for your pets on my blog,
Gina's Kokopelli (www.ginaskokpelli.com) along with free samples for adults,
kids and teachers. If you have a money saving trick, I would love to hear
from you. Feel free to email me at ginaskokopelli@yahoo.com.
Gina Juliano writes daily about "Everything coupon, free, and cheap" on
her blog, Gina's Kokopelli (www.ginaskokopelli.com). Gina also teaches
couponing classes and would love to be invited to your school, library, or
organization. Please contact her at ginaskokopelli@yahoo.com.
 Page 17 November 2010

People’s Press Cover Cards

They’re FREE!
Perfect for a Holiday Greeting!
In celebration of our 10th Year - we now offer “People’s Press Cover Cards.”
What are they? We will take your celebration photo and create a front page
card high quality pdf IN FULL COLOR delivered to you by email. You can
print it and send to your loved one, post it on your blog or website, email it
out to your loved one and family or have it as a keepsake.
All that we ask is that you make a donation to one of the 2 non-profits or
charities that we will feature each month. You do not send us the money or
check.
All you have to do is email us at celebrations@peoplespressnews.com and
in the subject line write “Celebrations Cover Card.” Please make the image as
large as possible! Not only will it appear inside the latest issue but your “Cover
Card” will be delivered as soon as we are able.
LocalMotivated – Local Causes is not just a slogan – it’s a commitment to
our communities. Remember also that in most cases your donation will be tax
deductible.
This month’s non-profits are:

46 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford, CT 06492

LocalMotivated To Help Local Causes

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*Thjs is for personal use only. No business allowed to utilize this program. Remember the cover card does not appear on the front of the print or web issue of The People’s Press. It’s personally designed for you and your needs only.
Page 18 November 2010

Let's Talk"…..About Your Health

Chris More, RN CELEBRATIONS
Public Health Educator, Wallingford Health Department
Let's Talk……about Weather. There is an old saying "If you want to know what the weather is, get up in the morning,
pull up your shades and look outside." That's fine if it is a nice quiet sunny day, but this morning the skies are dark, the
wind is kicking up. What's going on? You need to turn on the T.V. or a radio and find out if there is some severe weath-
er headed your way. Could there be a tornado watch or warning being posted? Yes, I said tornado! There have been
more than a few tornados touching down in Connecticut in the last few years. What is a watch? What is a warning? A
tornado watch means weather conditions may produce tornados or severe thunderstorms. Continue normal activities,
have a safety plan in mind and be ready to implement if a warning is issued. A severe weather warning means severe
weather or a tornado has been detected. The warning will tell you its location and movement. Implement your safety
plan immediately.
Do I need to have a safety plan? Absolutely! Closely monitor commercial radio and T.V. Select a "safe room", a
small interior room (bathroom or closet). A basement is the safest if you have one. If you have neither of these, tip over
a couch or chair in the center of the house and get under. Mobile homeowners, go to a community center or a neigh-
bor's home. Continue to monitor the weather. All schools should have an emergency plan for any disaster ready to be
implemented at a moment's notice. If you are outdoors or in an automobile, try to find a ditch or culvert. Do not run!
You cannot outrun the storm. If you are in a public building again, follow the same plan as if you were at home.
Signs of a Tornado: A greenish black colored sky, hail can be considered a danger sign unless it is a common occur-
rence in your area. A strange quiet is also a sign. Fast moving clouds, a roaring sound like a train or jet, debris from the
sky, and obviously a "funnel shaped" cloud must alert you.
What to do after the storm passes? First make sure everyone in your family is safe and uninjured. If you're in a safe
place . . . stay put until it is safe to move, call for help and try to get the latest emergency information from radio or
T.V. (Let's hope all your batteries aren't dead in your child's toys). Help your neighbors if you can! All is quiet now, the
sun is shining it is warm and there is no power. Now what? Boston Red Sox Fan and Harry Potter all set for trick or treating!
If you own or manage a food service or restaurant and you start to worry about the safety of the food and water.
Did you know? . . . A notification to the town health department and town's electric division that your establishment
has lost power is required. "That's right" Required. Why? Bacteria grow very quickly when food is not kept at the CELEBRATIONS
proper temperature. To "fight bac" here are some important facts. For the freezer section; a half full freezer, kept
closed, holds food safely for up to 24 hours. A freezer full of food holds for about 48 hours. Remember; don't open
that freezer door if you can avoid it. Use your refrigerator thermometer, know the Safe temperatures! Discard all food
that comes in contact with water (YUK - it could be contaminated). Please don't taste food to check its safety.
Remember the rule: "When in doubt, throw it out." AND contact the Health Department.
Did you know the U.S.D.A. has a meat and poultry hotline (888-MP-HOTLINE) available 24/7? You could always
call the Wallingford Health Department at 203-294-2065during normal work hours and get an actual live voice (image
that, no automated system!). As the saying goes, we live in New England. "If you blink twice the weather will change."
Stay dry, stay safe - Let's Talk… again next month.

Support Local Artists

This month is a CD review. New disk by Billy Megofna called MEGOFNA. Billy gave me a copy of his new disk a
few months ago to check out. I think it's a modern day masterpiece. The disk has that classic 70's feel from that era.
The album has many styles. Rocks one minute, then goes to something more in the vein of Tom Petty. It has been in
rotation in my car since.
1. Try
2. Perfect For Me
3. Wayward Smile
4. With You Or Alone.
5. Again
6. Just A Moment
7. The Exit Song
8. Oh Well
9. Shxxfaced Fool
MEGOFNA is an original rock group led by Billy Megofna, Jay Taylor, and Brian Earle Jenkins. They've played
together and separately in bands across the Northeast since they were kids in the early '90s. They're friends who first
got together (in a basement) to create and inspire. They're the same friends who exchanged albums and went to con-
certs together. They live for music in all its forms and are influenced by everything they love about it.
MEGOFNA the CD was a natural process of creation. The resulting songs were rehearsed for about a one-year peri-
od, and then recorded over the course of another. Like all authentic recordings, the CD reflects the coming together of
individuals to make music happen at a certain point in time.
We hope the songs speak to you. Enjoy! Taken from Megofna.com
I defiantly think this CD is something that everyone should give a listen. I can see Billy on FM radio someday com-
peting with the best of them. Other musicians have said to me that they think Billy is one of the best guitar players in
the state. I have to agree. I have seen him in a cover band and he does other artists stuff justice. Billy can be seen play-
ing out across the state in various bands. Jakes in Wallingford with drummer Jon Peckman in a band called Sex Pizza.
Go to Megofna.com for more info. This disk would make a nice addition to anybody's CD collection.
Rating: I give this disk a 4 out of a 5.
Remember to Support local artists. Students in Mrs. Ganter's AM and PM Kindergarten classes from Nathan
Wayne Montefusco Hale have been learning about pumpkins! They enjoyed a special day at
Lyman Orchards, picking pumpkins and finding their way through the corn-
Halloween maze. Top Photo- Jason, Kayden, and Sean look for the biggest pumpkins
You live in NE it wasn't that cold I took my grand kids it was a perfect Halloween night just as I remember a looong they can find! Bottom Photo- Carlos, Maribel, and Sam take a rest after car-
time ago. It's my favorite holiday you can be any one or thing you want. - Carole rying their pumpkins up to the bus.

Wallingford Optical Crossword November 2010 Answers.

Puzzle by Ruth Gordon.

Diane Mintich
Licensed Optician,
A.B.O. & N.C.L.E.
Certified

James Comeau
Licensed Optician,
A.B.O. & N.C.L.E.
Certified

Happy Thanksgiving!
Eye exams provided by an Independent Doctor of Optometry

(203) 265-1541 58 Center St., Wallingford

wallingfordoptical.com
 Page 19 November 2010

South Meriden VFD November 2010 Tired of looking at the same 4 walls? Looking for something new?
The picture shows Put the Twinkle back in your eyes!
Five South Join Wallingford Junior Woman's Club Call Mimi LaFrance at 203-284-8544. You can also find
Meriden Chiefs at us on Facebook
a Recent from the Have you heard about Juniors?
past to present that Are you sure this is for me I'm an adult? How long has the club been doing community service in
was taken in April Wallingford? Wallingford Junior Woman's Club has been active for 56 years. Well what do you
2010 at the depart- do?
ment's annual Did you attend Celebrate Wallingford? Did you see a bunch of happy children & parents? The
awards dinner. Juniors' create games and crafts as well as staff the children's game area.
Picture compli- Did you smell the popcorn & cotton candy.. that was one of our fund raising activities so we can
ment of Joe do more community service projects.
Cournoyer. Looking for something different? Do you watch Government TV channel 20? There is that
Keith Gordon Junior Woman's Club again running Candidate Forums with the League of Women Voters.
2008-Present Top Not interested yet?
Left, Bill Well how about education? ABC .. Yes that's us again with all the 5th and 6th grade school
Coutermash 1971- spelling champs to find out who is the best speller in town.
1977 Center Back, Did you know we also give an annual Adult Education Scholarship every June at the Adult
James Cournoyer Education graduation ceremony?
1998-2007 Top Are you interested in music? The musician's of the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra love
Right, Jack Haines Juniors! Refreshments are plentiful thanks the rehearsal hostesses.
1963-1970 Some additional projects from the past year:
Bottom Left, Lee Bell ringing for the Salvation Army, coat & food drive for Master's Manna, beanie hats for prema-
Stevens 1951-1956 ture babies, sponsor a family for Christmas though Wallingford Youth Services, support the CT at
Bottom right risk through Convenant to Care for Children and the social workers at DCYS Meriden office.
The department www.covenanttocare.org
held its annual Old In club activities include book club, summer picnic, chick flick at the movies night, girls night
Timers Night which is held once a year to allow some of the past members to get together with out, holiday dinner, club newsletter & facebook page.
their fellow firefighters they have served with over the years. It also gives our newer members an
opportunity to hear from those who have served before them.
Our Departments is celebrating its 10 year anniversary of having in house duty crews. Our duty
When I Was a Lad of Three
I had my tonsils removed when I was three years old. I remember it as clear as a crystal bell. Oh, I
crews presently sleep at the station 7 nights a week. This allows our certified members to respond
didn't know then what it was the doctors had done until later in life…..I do remember being in a
to an emergency call quicker in our fire district.
room with these brilliant bright lights, and people all around dressed in white - and then I fell
It is also our 25th anniversary of doing fire education in our fire district. Each year our fire edu-
asleep. Anyway, my dad came home with a baby peep for me because I was a "good boy" for mak-
cation team led by our fire education office Thomas Stange, and his staff Paul and Carol Lapan,
ing it through the ordeal. I don't recall much about that curious yellow thing, except that I loved
Fire Service Instructor Kelly Logan, Retired MFD Truck LT Jack Smokey Masterson. They take
my little bugger.
their show on the road teaching fire education and fire survival techniques to Hanover School stu-
Later I learned that the chicken grew quickly into an adult hen. It was near on to Thanksgiving
dents, teachers and parents and our local day care facilities. They also attend special events in the
and we didn't have enough money to buy a turkey, so……..well -- we had the chicken, and that
community with Smokey the Bear and wrinkle's the fire dog. They are dedicated individual who
would have to do for our "turkey" dinner. Mom told me that I cried, and cried, over having to say
spend a lot of time teaching and showing children the right and wrong way to get out of a smoke
"goodbye" to my little feathered friend. I am not sure, but I have a feeling that the chicken, along
/fire situation. They have taught not only the present children but also their parents when they
with some potatoes and corn, made a wonderful meal for that one, memorable, Thanksgiving Day -
were children at Hanover School.
when I was just a lad of three.
So please stay safe, do not forget to turn your clocks back and when you do please change the
~ George Arndt ~
battery in your smoke detector. Practice EDITH drills with your family (Exit Drills In The Home)
and please help us with the winter months coming by keeping your neighborhood fire hydrants
clear of snow.
Celebrations - Email us your Celebration Photo/Message to
Have a great Holiday Season - Chief Keith Gordon celebrations@peoplespressnews.com.
Page 20 November 2010

GUARDIAN ANGELS PUBLIC SWIM MALONEY HIGH SCHOOL

It is the perfect fall day sunny with comfortable cool breezes blowing as I take a break to lean out the window and 121 GRAVEL ST (rear of school)
breath it all in. You see, my father had just passed away a few days prior and I alone had the very sad task of going Hours Monday, Wednesday & Thursdays 6:30p - 7:45p
through and clearing out his whole apartment. While admiring the beautiful weather, I glance down to see my father's Saturdays & Sundays 12:00p - 2:45p
whole life in a dumpster and begin to cry. I am confused and not sure how I should grieve, because I had been All swimmers must have a valid 2010 pool pass For further information call
estranged from my father for years, so naturally guilt started to set in motion. For the first few days, I had been going City of Meriden Parks & Recreation at 203 630-4259
strong to get the task done. However, at this moment, I felt very weak, lost and alone. I wanted to just stop, walk away Lifeguards have the right to deny access to pool
and never come back. I would thank you from the bottom of my heart, but for you my heart has no
At that moment, some people came by to see what was in good condition that they could take. They started to talk to bottom. ~Author Unknown
me and ask questions and gave their condolences. I then asked them to come up and see if they would like some furni-
ture or things that would get tossed anyway. After they took possession of a few items, they immediately started help-
ing me to clean out and clean up the rest of the apartment. They made me the Director and said, just tell us what to do CELEBRATIONS
and we will do it. Three hours later, those wonderful neighbors, who I met that day and barely knew my father, had
accomplished the grand task of cleaning out nearly the entire apartment, which would have taken me at least two weeks
to complete. From that moment on, I deemed them my Guardian Angels that my Dad must have sent. Not to mention,
they continued to watch for my nightly arrival to assist me some more until it was completely done.
So to Zach, Lucy, Jose and Charmaine…THANK YOU FOR SAVING ME THAT DAY!! May God bless you and
your families over and over again. Also a big THANK YOU to my Dad, who I truly believe, sent those angels to me
that very sad day to save my sanity. Although we became estranged, I never stopped loving you. You are in heaven
with God and the angels and now are truly blessed….Michelle Trenchard-Scianna, October 15, 2010
In Memory of John "Jack" T. Trenchard 10/6/10 - Rest In Peace

About Alexis Burgess - Meriden Public Library

Hi! My name is Alexis Burgess and I am a librarian at Meriden Public Library. You might have seen me around town
driving the Bookmobile. Libraries, especially Meriden Library, have been very special to me all my life. I was a regular
at the West Branch of the library while I went to St. Joseph's School. Then I became a volunteer at the Lincoln and Platt
school libraries when I attended them. My first job was at Meriden Library as a page. It was here I met my future hus-
band who also worked at the library.
Throughout college, as I was working on my bachelor's degree in library science, I continued to work at Meriden.
After college, I left the library to work at Choice magazine in Middletown. During this time I got married and settled in Who wouldn’t fall in Puppy Love with Keiko
South Meriden. Wanting more of a challenge, I left the magazine to be librarian at an engineering firm in Wallingford. A
couple years later, we decided to start a family so I stayed home for the next 11 years raising our three daughters. In
1993, while in the midst of driving children to nursery school and kindergarten, I received a call from friends at the
Meriden Library asking if I would like to work on the bookmobile. I took a deep breath and decided to try it.
CELEBRATIONS
So, here I am, 17 years later, still driving the bookmobile, although I now share this with another librarian. I went
back to Southern for my master's degree which I completed in 2006 and have taken on more responsibilities at the
library. Throughout all the years of school, either our children or mine, I have been blessed to be married to the greatest
guy in the world. We still live in South Meriden and enjoy the village community.

It's that time of the year again~ Hanover PTO's Vendor Events!
* Saturday, December 4th CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE CRAFT FAIR - Fair hours: 11:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., with
set up at 10:00 a.m.
If you are interested in renting a table for one of our events, please mail payment and form to:
Hanover Elementary School c/o PTO Vendor Fair, 208 Main Street, South Meriden, CT 06451 (Please make checks
payable to Hanover PTO)
Contact: Heather Borak - heatherborak@hotmail.com - 203-537-3123
I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is
happiness doubled by wonder. ~G.K. Chesterton

CELEBRATIONS
No matter if it’s a birthday, holiday, anniversary, wedding and
birth announcement or just to make someone happy -
It’s always FREE to share your Celebrations in The People’s Press!
Evan & Garrett Halloween 2010
Email to celebrations@peoplespressnews.com
or use this form to mail it in!

Don’t Forget Your Free

Holiday Greeting
Send One to a loved one!
CELEBRATIONS
Merry Christmas Daddy and
Mommy!
,I love you with all
of my heart and soul.
YOU are the best!
Love, Alyssa

Message:
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the last names of any photo submissions. Send to:The People’s Press, P.O. Box 4459, Yalesville CT 06492

The deadline is December 1st for our December issue!

The Deadline is December 12th for our Holiday Magic issue!
 Page 21 November 2010

November 2010 - Musician Jack Johnson helps the QWRA Meriden's Stoddard Bowl
Life along the Q River… An Update from the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association By JoAnne Grabinski 11/25/2010 at 10:30 am
When internationally acclaimed musician and environmental advocate Jack Johnson came to Hartford to play in July at Falcon Field
2010, he brought along a mission to offer matching funds to several Connecticut environmentally based nonprofits, in
support of their missions and to help raise awareness of the organizations. One hundred percent of the profits from
Johnson's 2010 tour will be donated to charity. The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) was one of five
Samaha and Carini Bowl Football - Wallingford
organizations chosen by Johnson to participate in his "Village Green" of environmental activists at the Hartford con- November 24 Samaha Bowl at Sheehan at 1:30 p.m.
cert. During the event, QRWA Executive Director Mary Mushinsky, Vice President David James and QRWA volun- November 25 Carini Bowl at Lyman Hall at 10:00 a.m.
teers interacted with Johnson's fans and encouraged them to protect the environment with their personal choices.
The QRWA booth was busy all evening, talking with a passionate cross section of environmentally concerned citi-
zens of every stripe shared their stories. Many came to talk after having seen pictures of our members displayed on the
CELEBRATIONS
big stage screen behind the performers. Affirmation!! Johnson's new charity, the Johnson Ohana Charitable
Foundation, matched every dollar contributed to QRWA before October 15th, up to $2,500. This collaborative effort
resulted in additional funds for the QRWA. All QRWA volunteers were entered into a drawing to win concert tickets.
The lucky winners included: Eric Johnson of Cheshire, fish stocking; Cole Rourke of Wallingford, migratory fish lift;
Frances Notaro of North Haven, river cleanup; Basia Pietrzak of Plainville, river cleanup; Ben Axelrod of Meriden,
river cleanup; Mary Solomon of Wallingford, intern and river cleanup; Joe Mushrall of Southington, river cleanup;
Claudia Giulietti of North Haven, river cleanup; Frank Basch of Meriden, building construction and JoAnne Grabinski
of Meriden, butterfly and bee garden.
Recently, Johnson was selected to receive the 2010 Humanitarian Award at this year's Billboard Touring Awards on
November 4, 2010, in New York. The Humanitarian Award recognizes the philanthropic efforts of a touring profes-
sional. Johnson was chosen because of his involvement in a wide range of environmentally and socially conscious
endeavors, including the Quinnipiac River Watershed Association.
The QRWA thanks Johnson for his dedication and commitment to supporting non-profits that work to make the
world a better place. You can contribute to the QRWA directly through its website, www.qrwa .org or through a link at
www.jackjohnsonmusic.com In October the QRWA sponsored a fall foliage hike in South Meriden that began with a
look at the brilliant orange-yellow color of the sugar maple (Acer saccharum) the colors of which are also reflected in
the tasty syrup created from its sap. The walk continued on the Meriden Linear Trail along the Quinnipiac River,
where wildlife biologist Peter Picone stopped to point out the autumn-yellow flower of the witch hazel (Hamamelis
virginiana), a shade-tolerant shrub from which the astringent witch-hazel is derived.
Paris showing off her feathers!
Picone also pointed out a large-trunked yellow-leaved tree called the tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera). He shared
with the walkers the fact that in addition to producing blossoms that resemble tulips, the tree also provides valuable
nectar to our diminutive feathered friend; the ruby-throated hummingbird. Next on display was the fiery leaves of the
red maple (Acer rubrum), which provides spring seeds for wildlife and is one of the trees most often used by owls and
flying squirrels for shelter and nesting. Picone stopped at a yellow-leaved shrub and proceeded to crush the leaf and
Leaf Your Car Care To Us!
twig to share with the group the lemon-spicy scent of the spicebush (Lindera benzoin) shrub. The spicebush's red
berries are relished by migratory songbirds fattening up for their long journey to warmer climates,
Next on the list of fall foliage wonders was a small purple-red shrub on the edge of the woods, the maple-leaved
viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium). Once the group was able to identify the shrub's maple-shaped leaves, they began to
notice them throughout the under story of the forest. The maple-leaf viburnum provides wildlife with blue-black
berries that persist through the winter, and is popular with resident birds including the wild turkey. Picone also pointed
out the brilliant orange-yellow leaves of the sassafras (sassafras albidum) tree, noting the leaves' three distinct shapes:
one-lobed, two-lobed, and three-lobed. The last tree showcased during the walk was the flowering dogwood (Cornus
florida), resplendent in its vibrant purple leaves. The beautiful Sunday afternoon fall foliage walk ended with refresh-
ments at the future QRWA office and environmental education center parking lot.
Upcoming QRWA Events:
Christmas in the Village - Saturday, December 4, 2010, 2:00-5:30 pm, Main Street, South Meriden.
Winter Hike - please check the website for details Eagle Count - please check the website for details
Continuous Fundraiser: Purchase environmentally safe cleaning products, help the environment and help the QRWA!
Visit www.WOWgreen.net/149153 for details. The Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is a 501c3 orga-
nization whose mission is to restore the Quinnipiac for the health and enjoyment of all citizens and communities along
its reach and to educate all students, families, individuals, businesses and governments to be informed stewards of the
river. We provide water activities, events in education, outreach, advocacy, scientific monitoring, conservation, restora-
tion, recreation and public access to the watershed area. To learn more about the QRWA and future events, please visit
our website at www.qrwa.org. Thank you for your support and remember your donations are tax deductable.

"Fictional Seasons"
- By Janet Cipolli FAIR, NOT FAIR
For their 25th wedding anniversary, Beth and Walter Chester decided to drive cross-country from their hometown in
Massachusetts to Los Angeles, CA. Walt had always wanted to visit the West Coast and Beth had always wanted to go
to Disneyland but both were afraid of airplanes. This is the one thing they agreed upon-everything else was up for
grabs.
You see, Walter is a stubborn man, always has been. In fact, on their wedding day he decided to stop off for a quick
beer with his best man before heading over to the Church. His best man didn't think it was a good idea and protested
until finally giving up. That's what most people do around Walter-he runs you down until it's easier to just give up.
This car trip was proving to be no exception.
Beth, the sensible half of this duo, made sure the couple had every map of every state they would be passing
through and had the GPS navigation system checked and double-checked by their friendly mechanic. So, after three
days on the road, why were they still in Pennsylvania? You got it. Walter was being Walter.
"There's a truck stop Walt, pull over."
Passing the truck stop, "Truckers…all they know is where the best food is and we just ate."
"Maybe they can help us with the GPS? They must have one in their trucks, they travel all over creation."
"Don't need the GPS. That's what got us lost in the first place."
"No it's not." Beth reaches into the back seat and grabs a pile of maps. "You haven't looked at one of these since we
left. That's what got us lost!"
"Don't need to. I know how to drive west. Besides, as the driver it is my sole responsibility to get us to our destina-
tion."
"Well, that's not fair. I do have a brain you know."
"Is too fair and I didn't say that you don't have a brain. You just need to use it for things other than nagging me."
"Nagging you? We've traveled less than 400 miles in three days! At this rate we'll get to California just in time to
see Justin Bieber sworn in as Governor."
"Ha ha. Funny lady. Pour me another cup of coffee will you sweetie?"
"You're unbelievable," shaking her head. "I'm getting really frustrated with you. I think I should take the wheel for Now is the time to come to Rousseau’s to
awhile-pull over." Winterize - before snow hits your eyes.
"I'm the man, I drive--you pour."
"This is not fair!!"
Don’t get stuck on the road!

Rousseau’s
Walter points to the right side of the road, "See that sign?"
Beth follows her husband's finger to a huge sign that reads FAIR.
"Enough said." Walter smirks.
"Oh, yeah?" holding up her finger, "See this sign?"
The domestic bantering continued for the next 2-1/2 weeks until they finally saw the words "Welcome to
Auto Repair
Kentucky". Beth and Walter Chester will always remember their 25th anniversary as the year they both got over their Complete Auto Repair
fear of flying.
Family Owned... Family Friendly Since 1954
"Pass me the peanuts sweetie…"
Janet Cipolli, a Fictional Writer for decades, continues to write heart warming, inspirational and most valued short story fic- Find Out Why by Stopping Down Today!
tions. Through her work, she also takes pride as a writer in song lyrics and poems. Janet also extends her talent by delivering
her short story series called "Fictional Seasons". Janet is proud to share her short stories of "Fictional Seasons" as a contribut- 369 Cook Ave., Meriden
ing writer for Venture Out Online Magazine and The People's Press News. To contact Janet: bluesjeansong@aol.com . To read
more of Janet's Stories: http://fictionalseasons.blogspot.com/ 235-2561
Page 22 November 2010
A Christmas Fair…Full of Surprises
Saturday, December 4, 2010 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
The congregation of the First Congregational Church, corner of Center and Main Streets in
Wallingford, is hard at work preparing for its Classic Christmas Holiday Fair, December 4.
This is an all-in-house production features fine needle and hand work, delicious jellies, pre-
serves, and jams, a marvelous selection of baked goods, plus surprises galore filling the huge
church hall. Of special note: the Unique Boutique that highlights the artisans in the congregation
who have been preparing extraordinary surprises. New this year: Scrap Booking! Come to the
Scrap Book Stop for your scrap booking supplies. The Pet Booth will offer treats and toys for the
pet owner. Treasures abound at the Jewelry and Yesterday's Treasures Tables. The Coffee Café
and a complete hot lunch are available. The church is handicapped accessible and has ample park-
ing. For more information, please call the church office (203) 265-1691.
Help End Poverty in Meriden: Join the Circles Initiative
Roughly 12% of Americans live in poverty today and are unable to consistently pay for basic
needs. That's according to federal guidelines established in the 1960's that have not factored in the
increasing costs of housing, healthcare, utilities or transportation in the last four decades. The
number of people under the real poverty line in the U.S. is between 14% and 17%. Non-profit
organizations and government agencies are attempting to eradicate poverty, but the numbers show
they are not succeeding.
In our effort to end poverty in the City of Meriden by crossing race, class and gender lines, it is
imperative that those low-income individuals learn values and techniques that inspire them to
change their situation. In that spirit, the Circles Initiative to End Poverty in Meriden believes in a
team / relationship approach to achieve that goal.
By teaming Circle Leaders (those leading themselves out of poverty) with two to four Circle
Allies (members of the middle and upper classes), an exchange of values takes place that allows
the Circle Leaders to learn what it takes to get out of poverty. This teaming / relationship
approach would also help the Circle Allies have a deeper understanding of a different aspect of the
human condition, and ultimately themselves.
A Circle Leader named Alice had this to say about her participation in the Meriden Circles
Initiative: "I moved to Meriden in 2007. I have a degree in business but felt I couldn't move for-
ward because I speak with an accent. I didn't want to receive help from the government so I
accepted a job working in a factory."
"Since I joined Circles I have made new friends, and my self esteem is over the moon. I was
able to obtain a temporary job as a substitute teacher and I see life differently now. I have set goals
and would like to go back to school and become a certified Spanish Teacher and get a permanent
job in my field. My English has improved along the process. I'd like to thank Circles for their help
and their patience. I recommend Circles to others who want to get themselves out of poverty."
When asked her reasons for becoming a Circle Ally, Brenda S. stated, "The chance to lend a
helping hand is why I became a Circles Ally." Brenda went on to state, "You don't know what you
don't know. If people aren't introduced to something, how would they know about it? I want peo-
ple to know what they're missing (i.e. the benefits of being self sufficient)." When asked the same
question, Circle Ally Denise M. stated, "I became an Ally to give back to the commuity that has
given me so much."
The Meriden Circles Initiative is a great way for the people of Meriden to build relationships
across race, class and gender lines with the goal of bringing about positive change in our commu-
nity by ending poverty. Whether you wish to enter into a supportive relationship with one who is
leading their own way out of poverty, help develop the Meriden Circles Initiative itself or donate
your time and or resources to the Meriden Circles Initiative, you can make a difference.
To learn more about the Circles Initiative to End Poverty in Meriden, attend one of the Circles
Weekly Community Meetings that take place the first through third Thursdays of every month,
from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church. The last Thursday of the month is
reserved for the Circles Big View Meeting, which is result oriented and specifically geared toward
changing the way the community of Meriden views poverty. The Big View Meeting takes place
from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, at the First Congregational Church of Meriden.
For more information about the Circles Initiative to End Poverty in Meriden, contact Ryan E.
Williams (Meriden Circles Guiding Coalition Chair) at 203-235-1014, ext. 17 or Carey Beisel
(Circles Coach) at 203-235-0278, ext. 14. We look forward to working with you in changing the
face of Meriden.
CUNO FOUNDATION AWARDS $36,500 IN GRANTS
The United Way of Meriden and Wallingford received a $20,000 grant at the Distribution
Committee meeting held on October 20th. "The Cuno Foundation has supported the United Way
over the last forty years", says Kenneth Mango, Chairman of the Committee. "We also like to sup-
port new non-profits that offer services to the entire community, like My City Kitchen". My City
Kitchen was the recipient of a $10,000 grant. The Women & Families Center received $4,000 for
their Before & After School STAR Program and New Opportunities for Waterbury received $2,500
for their Boys to Men Enrichment Program.
The Cuno Foundation is again accepting grant applications for public, charitable or educational
purposes. Grants are usually made for specific, tangible items or capital expense requests that
directly benefit the recipient. The Cuno Foundation does not grant funds for salaries. Applications
are reviewed three times a year. The next deadline date to submit applications is December 15,
2010. Awards will be announced in January. Preference is given to proposals submitted by tax-
exempt, not for profit organizations located in the Meriden area.
For additional information or to obtain guidelines and an application form, call 203-443-5594 or
email: cunofoundation@cox.net.
Colin's Crew Hosts Bake sale to
Raise Money for The Tommy Fund
An annual cookie swap that was started five years ago by a local resident, Denise Greening of
Northford, and her two daughters, Heather Westbrook from Wallingford and Courtney Barrett from
Portland has evolved into something much larger this year, a bake sale to benefit the Tommy Fund.
Last year, the swap took place two months after Heather and Michael Westbrook's son, Colin
Westbrook, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia ("ALL") just days after his second
birthday.
Colin's Crew was formed by friends and family to provide financial and emotional support to
the Westbrook family. As Colin continues to do well on treatment,
Colin's Crew is now planning a series of fund-raisers to help other families
in the same situation as the Westbrook's.
Denise Greening, Colin's Grandmother said "we were devastated by the
news last year but have found hope and are amazed by the support local foun-
dations such as the Tommy Fund have provided to our family. For nearly a
year Colin's treatment required weekly or sometimes twice a week visits to
the hospital and the parking fee alone was a hefty expense for my daughter
and son-in-law. I was relieved when I heard the Tommy Fund covers the
parking cost for pediatric cancer patients. The bake sale is just one way our
family and Colin's Crew can give back".
All proceeds raised from the event will benefit the Tommy Fund, a local
501C3 charitable organization who offers financial assistance to local fami-
lies affected by childhood cancer. The bake sale will take place on Sunday
December 5th at Co.3 Firehouse, 1958 Middletown Ave, Northford, from
12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The afternoon will be full of hope, baked items and
handmade crafts. All donations welcome. For more information email: col-
ins-crew@hotmail.com or visit Colin's Crew on facebook.
Beat the Street Community Center, Inc.
2010 Fall /Winter Programs
Career Explorers Program
Come join us for this exciting new program where you will have the opportu-
nity to investigate first-hand careers in the following Industries:
Manufacturing, agriculture, military, government, research, Health care, first
responders, education, engineering, Media relations, public utilities, financial
service and many more!
Enjoy exciting weekly field trip to explore local businesses and job ven-
tures.
We also provide Computer proficiency workshops
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays Ages 11-13 4:00pm to 6:00pm
Media Production Program
Wednesday Ages 11-13 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
USA Amateur Boxing and Hip Hip Dance Lessons
Monday thru Friday
Ages 8-13 4:00pm to 6:00pm Ages 14-18 6:30pm to 8:30pm
For more information please contact:
Beat The Street Community Center, Inc. - 121 South Colony Street, 2nd floor
Meriden, CT 06450 - Larry Pelletier, Executive Director 203.686.1639
beattsccinc@snet.net
Enjoy the Season at St. Andrew's!
Come & Enjoy the Season at St, Andrew's Episcopal Church - Sunday
December 5th, 2010 @ 1 pm
Corner of Liberty & E. Main Streets, Meriden
" Play Cards at our Famous Whist " (our 8th since 1997) then relax and eat
wonderful desserts at our " All things Chocolate Buffet "
Also Raffle of Tabletop Christmas Trees, Wreaths & more....
Tickets/information/reservations by calling Pat @ 203-238-4227
Tickets $12.00 per person/ $45.00 for tables of 4. Hope you can join us ! All
are welcome !
Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages
in the biography of souls. ~David Thomas
 Page 23 November 2010

AMAZING GRACE Poems and Jokes

By Audrey C. Linke Devin M. - 9 yrs.old
"Did anyone ever tell you that you have wonderful neighbors?" querried a young visitor as he was leaving our son's
first out door rock-and-roll band rehearsal. They certainly were amazing. Looking back, I wonder if I would have
It's turkey season and the turkeys are fighting back, lock your doors and tell
been as gracious if it were someone else's son.
them that your going to have corn for a snack
We wondered how they would react to such an event, so Gary went from door to door, telling them of his plans to
hold a band practice in the yard (it was also to be his sister's birthday party). He suggested it would be a good night to
Pumpkins are orange, Bats are Black find lots of candy and have it as a
attend a movie or take a ride. Luck was with us: our nearest neighbor had a teen-aged daughter that thrilled to the
snack.
sounds of the Zone of Quiet--a misnomer if there ever was one! Two doors down, the father of an earlier drummer
passed up a ball game on TV to sit outside and listen--it brought back memories of his son's career as a budding musi-
When the Mayflower took off it wasn't alone, it found Amelia Earhart and
cian.
the Titanic and they flew and sailed to Rome
Other neighbors were equally tolerant and the session went forward without a single complaint. The Zone musi-
cians were ever aware of the annoyance factor of their music and always stopped playing by 9:00 PM. Our good
I give thanks for my spoon, my fork and my knife, the world, my toothpaste
neighbor with the adoring fan (the 13 year old daughter) was also a policeman, often on switch-board duty when it was
and my niceness, my badness, my computer and my cat, but the one thing I
our turn to break the sound barrier. When people phoned in to complain he would tell them ever so politely that the
do not give thanks for is….HOMEWORK.
practice would end at nine, encouraging them to bear with it just a little longer. His running interference was a big
boost to Gary's career as a rock-and-roll drummer--after all, musicians must practice.
The Turkey was yummy, the potatoes were great, please give me some more
Other members of the band didn't fare as well. Their neighbors would not tolerate the noise even though they knew
to put on my plate.
it would stop by nine o'clock. It made it difficult for the band to survive and it eventually broke up because of it.
I never liked rock and roll music and I was in agony when our house reverberated with the deafening sound. But I
Why didn't the hunter go out to get a turkey? I don't know, why? Because he
loved the boys and encouraged them in every way I could. The jobs the band played were the beginning of our son's
was a VEGETARIAN!
career as a competant and creative drummer, and he was able to use his talent to help earn his way through college.
Without the cooperation of neighbors like ours there would be many budding musicians who wouldn't make it. The
young man was right--we indeed have wonderful neighbors. We're grateful, and this is a tribute to them.
Get CASH for the Holidays
Nature as a Mirror
CHICKADEES RICK’S
Snowy, wintry day Always Buying Gold, Silver, Coins, Antiques, Collectibles,
Jaunty, cheerful chickadee Broken or Unwanted Jewelry - Anything of Value!
Greets us with a song.
Dorothy Gonick “New or Old”
Cool weather and barren trees signal it is time to provide “INSTANT CASH”-“TOP PRICES PAID”
suet and seeds for our feathered friends---especially the
Chickadees. Rick’s Antiques & Coins
The nesting season has passed and the fledglings have 428 North Colony St. (Rt. 5) Wallingford - 203-269-9888
joined the flock in probing for insect eggs and pupae under
bark and in crevices of tree trunks with their sharp stubby *** Over 30 Years In Business! ***
bills. Until next spring the flock will roost and forage

Find A Friend At The

together, hunting in groups. The flock of eight to a dozen
birds keeps an eye on one another and gathers at each new
source of food discovered. With so many alert birds,
predators can be noticed and sharp calls made as warning.
The whole flock of birds will freeze and begin to voice Wallingford Animal Shelter!
high thin notes that confuse the predator hawk from knowing where to find his prey, and so will move on. An "all's
well" note brings the flock back to life continuing their search for food.
Chickadees have found the feeders with birdseed and black sunflower seeds and suet-filled pouches, ready for a nib-
ble. From our window we watch them come, one after another to snatch a seed and fly off to a nearby tree to crack it
open and enjoy. We admire the black cap and bib; the white breast blending into a soft buff color; the gray back,
wings, and tail that all combine to give a crisp, jaunty appearance.
It is a joy to see other small birds that often travel with the chickadees. There are tufted titmice, nuthatches
and warblers that accept the protection of the flock. These birds do not fight at the feeder and this adds to our plea-
sure. The calls of chikadeedee, feebe, peter,peter,peter, causes us to wonder just what they have to say. These birds
are highly social and are generally tame around humans, much to our joy.
Chickadees live nearby year round in mixed forests, backyards, and parks. They are monogamous hole-
nesters and may chip a hole in the soft rotting wood of an upright tree or use nests formerly used by woodpeckers.
Some may use birdhouses provided by a bird lover. They search for soft mosses, fine grasses, and feathers or hair to Chico - a cute and Jessie -
form a comfortable nest in the bottom of their hole.
Breeding occurs when plenty of food is available. Five to ten brown-spotted white eggs will be laid, and then incubat- cuddly male Male Jack Russell
ed by both parents until they hatch about two weeks later. For the next fourteen to eighteen days, both father and chihuahua Who can resist
mother are kept busy flying back and forth from nest to field to gather grubs, insects, berries and seeds to fill the that smile!
yawning beaks of those noisy, hungry babies. As they grow, the nest becomes crowded; plumage forms and muscles
firm up with much wing flapping. Soon the youngsters fledge and leave the nest to join the flock and find their own
insects, seeds, and berries throughout the summer months.
From past observation, we know that throughout the coming winter, these chickadees will continue to be
cheerful; joyously coming to the feeders and adding a lively spirit to our days. We marvel at the sturdiness of these
small creatures and their ability to survive the bitter winters that await, so we vow to meet each day with a sunny dis-
position and a song in our hearts like the chickadees.

Meriden Rotary Club's End Polio Now Event

The Meriden Rotary Club in Collaboration with other Connecticut Rotary Clubs and the AHL Bridgeport Sound Tigers
is holding a Special End Polio Now Event on January 8th, 2011 at the Arena at Harbor Yard, Bridgeport. $31 Center
Ice Tickets will be sold for $20 and for every ticket sold, $7 will go to the Meriden Club's End Polio Now Project.
Polio is an intestinal virus that is spread through person to person contact, especially in situations of poor hygiene Louie - Maxwell,
and it enters the body through the mouth. It infects only humans, generally children under 5. There are three variation
of polio virus. There is no cure but there is a vaccine. A precious a young, gentle
Rotary international is engaged in the End Polio Now campaign to eliminate the virus in the remaining four coun- poodle mix German Shepherd.
tries in the world that it still exists.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has given Rotary a $355 Million dollar grant and Rotary is committed to
raising an additional $200 million by 2012! Together they will contribute over a half billion dollars to the fight against For more
polio.
For Tickets Contact Cliff Carlson @ 203-537-2728 or cliffc@huntersamb.com
information on
any of these
Nathan Hale School to Host Van Gogh Traveling Exhibit wonderful
Students to Explore the Wonders of Van Gogh! animals or
Nathan Hale School will be displaying a Teacher's Discovery Traveling Exhibit featuring the fascinating paintings of
Vincent van Gogh, including a giant reproduction of Starry Night. The students and staff will enjoy the spectacular others we have,
reproductions beginning November 29 and ending December 10, 2010. The exhibit celebrates art, French language,
French and Dutch culture and history. Not only will students enjoy the exhibit but parents will also have the opportuni- please contact
ty to view the exhibit during report card conferences, November 29 - December 3. Art lessons will be planned to coor-
dinate with the exhibit.
the Wallingford
Lacy Animal Shelter.
The People's Press will be having 2 issues in December to serve your needs. The first will be your traditional a young female
paper and the 2nd will be our annual "Holiday Magic" issue featuring all of your Happy Holiday photos, stories beagle/lab mix.
Lisa Seyler -
and more. The deadlines are December 1st for the December issue and December 12th for our "Holiday
Magic" issue! Email your submissions to peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com
203 294-2180.
Page 24 November 2010
CELEBRATIONS
Last Beach Get-Away! Photo by Soul Mate.
CELEBRATIONS
Richard and Mom enjoying a beautiful Fall day!
Now is the time to book Ruth for
all of your Holiday Events and Parties.
"What a Pet Wants, What a Pet Needs"
By: Lori Peck
This year as the holiday season approaches, remember to keep the wants and needs of your four legged family mem-
bers in mind as well. While you're shopping frantically, piling all of those unnecessary gifts into your cart for Uncle
Bob and Aunt Sally, please don't reach out and grab one of those stockings filled with colored rawhides for your dog.
Of course it's packaged real cute and you don't want to forget a gift for Fido, but you better pick up a bag of rice then
too. Your faithful companion is bound to get an upset tummy and leave you some unwanted presents in return. What
they really want is your attention during this busy time and the usual belly rub or walk. Imagine having your nice,
comfy bed that you've been laying in for months disappear one day and Cousin Trudy coming to stay for a week. I
know you want your house to smell nice, but light a candle. Your relatives and friends know you have pets.
If you have older pets or nervous pets, try keeping them in another part of the house while your having company, to
reduce stress. We all know children are like magnets to animals, going right for their faces and tails. So if you know lit-
tle ones are coming, give your pet a break. You can put their bed and some of their favorite toys in another room with
them. Time will fly by and when your company leaves, your pet will be free to sniff all the furniture. But, he will not be
stressed out!
If you're not the one hosting the holidays this year and you will be traveling, but have a pet or three at home. First,
ask a friend or relative to house sit or stop by a few times a day. If this is not feasible, then try a pet sitting service. The
best place your animal can be is with you, but if that can't happen, then home is by far the next best choice. You'd be
surprised how many of you have neighbors that would help you out. As long as you haven't let your pet use their lawn
as a litter box.
So if you're still unsure what to get your pet for the holidays, its easy LOVE, LOVE, LOVE and of course some
Milkbones or catnip. Something you know that will make your pet happy, because they give us so much unconditional
love in return. Enjoy the holidays!
Maggie's Corner:
By Maggie Griffin
Stepping into Sweet Dreams with Actor and Music Recording Artist Collin
Marrero
CD cover art is by MC Photography, Meghan Coulombe
Collin Marrero is the real life version from the all time favorite Movie back
in the 80's called FAME. His dream in the performing arts created his want for
Drama Classes at a young age. Being Actor and Musician, Collin holds the
destiny of both worlds in Entertainment within the palm of his hands.
He built a foundation of his own self branded skills and style, motivating
his self-esteem at a higher level when starring in on-stage musical perfor-
mances. A few to mention, Collin starred in musicals called Barnum - Rent -
Full Monty - Promises, Promises, and there is many more. He also takes his
music to higher horizons where he does reach the sky in his vocals, melody
and lyrics to his songs.
His demos of his upcoming CD are noted as a perfect sound machine. He is
currently working on a new CD release, which in my opinion - the production
company that takes Collin on, is taking on a 10 thumbs up performer.
Acting and singing is two different worlds combined into one great performer in Collin. Collin emphasized: As a
child, the day his parents bought him a microphone, he knew at that moment performing is his destiny. Collin laughed
when he said "The way I took that microphone and wouldn't stop day in and day out singing and simply performing,
my parents proudly admitted giving me a microphone made them wondering what they have done". Giving him that
microphone at a young age certainly created a Marrero family member that began his professional musical career on the
stages of the Connecticut Cabaret Theatre, working his way up the ranks as the leading man. "My parents are very sup-
portive of me and they are the rock, encouraging me since the day they gave me that microphone", said Collin.
Collin starring role in the musical RENT at Connecticut's Cabaret Theatre was the up most musical performance the
crowded audience loved. "I enjoyed the challenge of starring in RENT as it is the one show that makes many people
take a look at life differently, most of all not take it for granted", said Marrero. Critics review of Collin's performance in
the musical RENT raved. According to sources, "Collin Marrero made this musical a success through his charisma
character and positive performance". Another quoted, "Collin's performance is what made this musical popular in ticket
sales just to see him play his role on stage".
Collin was also the assistant director in the Musical RENT. Collin completely owes gratitude to his co-stars as he
said "My co-stars brought 150% to the table through their dedication in every reversal and performance in their roles
which delivered the power of performance to our audience. My co-stars and I became a Family."
Kris McMurray, Collin's best friend, is one of the reasons why he is able to play such roles, staying as a strong part
of what continues his career as a recording artist and an actor in musical plays. "Kris McMurray is the owner of the
Connecticut Cabaret Theatre, but he is also my number one supporter in all I do."
Currently, Collin has been busy in both worlds of a recording artists and acting. Collin has a role in the current pro-
duction of an upcoming movie called "The Rose" which is written and directed by Adrian Nieves.
Collin has played over 40 roles within 5 years and has been in the performing arts as both an actor and music record-
ing artist for close to 2 decades. His stage presence grows stronger every time he performs. The ability of having an
into the musical worlds of R&B, HipHop and Pop, Collin's vocal range spans over 4 octaves, allowing his high range to
be a very powerful instrument.
With influences like Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James, Aretha Franklin to the modern day R&B artists such as Whitney
Houston, Mariah Carey & Deborah Cox, vocally comparable to Christina Aguilera and the like, Collin's unique vocal
talents are now being passionately applied to working on his first CD recording. As he continues to successfully raise
awareness of his ambitions through the marketing of his professional demo, continuing performances at the Connecticut
Cabaret Theatre and performing in statewide vocal competitions, there is no stopping Collin Marrero in Taking It All
On!
To get a glimpse of what other critics rave about Collin, take a look at his biography below:
COLLIN MARRERO - singer / songwriter / lyricist
www.collinmarrero.com www.myspace.com/collinmarrero mcm_artist@me.com
Collin Marrero's voice is strong, powerful and most of all, extremely unique. With a range that spans several octaves,
Collin Marrero can easily hit the highs and the lows. In fact his vocal range can fit high above the tenor line, well into
the alto, and every now and then into the soprano. Regardless of how dynamic his voice really is, his voice is full of
warmth, emotion and a graceful power that has been found in the legendary performers of yester-year. It will knock
your socks off. From pop to R&B to something soulful and jazzy to even something theatrical, his voice combines all
of the elements of all of these genres to break the mold.
As early as can be remembered, Collin Marrero began singing and writing and has never stopped since. He began his
professional musical career on the stages of the Connecticut Cabaret Theatre, working his way up the ranks from chorus
boy to leading man, much in part to his ability to straddle the scale. Collin has played well over two dozen roles in the
past few years, allowing his stage presence to grow strong as a performer.
Now a well seasoned performer on the stage, Collin moved into studio work. With years of practice and passion as a
platform, he has since been dedicated to producing his own debut album of original work. With influences like Ella
Fitzgerald, Etta James, Aretha Franklin to the modern day R&B artists such as Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Mariah
Carey & Deborah Cox, vocally comparable to Christina Aguilera and the like, Collin's soaring vocal talents are being
recorded in hopes of reaching new heights.
He has successfully begun to raise awareness of his ambitions through the marketing of his professional demo, con-
tinuing performances at several Connecticut theatres, MySpace, performing in statewide vocal competitions and soon in
the regional performance circuit. With that in mind, Collin continues to push hard and stay focused to release his yet to
be titled debut album in hopes that you too, will find his talents to be amazing.
Collin "has an amazing talent and will definitely go places in this business".
-American Idol Producer & "So You Think You Can Dance" Judge, Nigel Lythgoe
 Page 25 November 2010

A Message from the Superintendent of Meriden Schools Infant/Child/Adult CPR with AED Class
Mark D. Benigni, Ed.D Classes instructed by American Red Cross certified instructors. Great for
coaches, teachers, parents and youth leaders. For more information; please
Dear Friends, contact Lisa Hoover at lhoover@wallingfordymca.org
As the school year progresses, we see individual student growth and engaged classrooms. Our students are participating
in rigorous academics and numerous co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.
Lincoln Middle School hosted a Cultural Night for students and parents. It was a great learning opportunity and a
time to build positive relationships with students and families. Lincoln also welcomed meteorologist Mark Dixon. Mr.
Dixon delivered an informative presentation to an excited student audience.
Benjamin Franklin Elementary School hosted Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer from the National Geographic
Network. Cesar visited classrooms and talked with students about his 'Mutt-i-grees' curriculum. This curriculum is
designed for students from Pre-K through Grade 3, and it incorporates a canine puppet to help teach students important
social and emotional skills. The students of Benjamin Franklin seem to be enjoying this enriching curriculum. A spe-
cial thank you goes out to Cesar Millan, Cathy Battista, Dan Coffey and the staff of Benjamin Franklin School. Servicing Transmissions Since 1952
Roger Sherman Elementary School hosted a Monster Mash Night. The event was well-attended by students and par- 694 Old Colony Rd.
203-237-4379
ents. Thank you to all the teachers and staff who supervised the event and helped prepare the building for a full night of
fun.
Hanover Elementary School hosted a Fall Festival to celebrate the season and helped to create a positive school cli-
mate and culture.

COMMERCIAL
Thomas Hooker Elementary School ran a Boo Bash to celebrate Halloween and bring parents and families together.
Lastly, I had an opportunity to visit Mr. Gaffney's eleventh grade English classes at Maloney High School. After
reading their essays on school uniforms and the purpose of school dress codes, I welcomed the chance to meet with the
students and congratulate them on their well done essays. I was impressed with their honesty, thoughtfulness, and can-
dor. They were not afraid to take a strong stand and they developed numerous supporting arguments. * RESIDENTIAL * INDUSTRIAL
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Meriden's new Superintendent of Schools. I will continue to make every
effort to be visible in our schools and to meet with students and staff. Our schools continue to be a place of learning,
discovery, and fun. The Meriden Public Schools appreciates your support and involvement in our educational system.
All the best,
Mark D. Benigni, Ed.D. Superintendent - Meriden Public Schools * New and Existing Construction
Wallingford Park and Recreation News and Events * Service Upgrade Repair
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
* Phone and TV Wiring
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
* Fire Damage Repairs
turkey and return it to the Parks and Recreation for a gift certificate. Awards: To be awarded to the first ten families that
return with the cardboard turkey or rubber chicken. Clues must be handed in at time for redemption.
* 45’ Bucket Truck Service
When: November 19, 2010 Day: Friday Time: 7:00p.m. Where: Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department Free
13th Annual Shoot for Success Pre-Season Basketball Tune Up Learn the mechanics and techniques required for
* Emergency Service
basketball and take yourself to the next level! Clinic includes: form & drill, defensive techniques, contests and games. “No Job too Big or Too Small”
Clinic is for Boys and Girls age's grades 2 - 9. When: Friday and Saturday Nov. 26th and 27th 2 days 9:00am -
12:00pm
Fee: $50 (includes clinic t-shirt) Instructor: Joe Gaetano and Greg Morrone and Hoop Mountain Basketball Staff
EDIBLE CREATIONS THANKSGIVING PUMPKINS - AGES 3 AND UP Something brand new!! Decorate this
pumpkin made out of rice crispy treats. We will use candy, chocolate, black licorice string and orange frosting. A big
treat for your Thanksgiving table. When: Saturday, Nov. 20th, 11:00am -12:00pm (one day) Instructor: Sherry
Rimkoski & Debbie Terrusa Loc: Exit 7A Fee: $12 ($4 material fee to be made payable to the instructor day of class)
EDIBLE CREATIONS GINGERBREAD HOUSES - AGES 3 AND UP These houses are made from an oversized
frame and decorated with candies, chocolate and frosting. This craft is a great family project and parents are greatly

203-235-5653
encouraged to join the fun. When: Saturday, Dec. 11th, 11:00am -12:00pm (one day) Instructor: Sherry Rimkoski &
Debbie Terrusa Location: Exit 7A Fee: $12 ($4 materials fee to be made payable to instructor day of class)
BASKET WEAVING CHRISTMAS TREE CARD BASKET - In this class you will weave a unique Christmas tree
basket. The basket measures 11" x 4"W x 11"H and is excellent for holding holiday cards. When: Mondays, Nov. 22nd Fully Insured and Licensed CT Lic. #104727
for 3 weeks, 7:00 - 9:30pm Instructor: Mike Cummings Location: Exit 3 Fee: $25 ($40 material fee made payable to
the instructor night of program
ECLIPSE WORKSHOP AGES 10-14 Are you a Twilight fan? We will be having our second annual workshop com-
plete with trivia, games, Eclipse inspired jewelry making and a moonlit craft! Red beverages will be served
Follow your dream...
(of Course). We'll have a howling good time! When: Friday, Nov. 12th, 6:45pm -9:00pm (one night) Instructor: Kim
Larkin Location: Exit 7 Fee: $20
HOLIDAY JEWELRY WORKSHOP At this fun jewelry workshop we will be making holiday gifts. A beaded key
ring, a beaded hook book mark, a custom seed bead pen, custom earrings and we will also show you how to embellish
with beads as well. Glass beads, metal accents and more. Come be creative! When: Friday, Nov. 19th, 6:45pm -9:00pm
(one night) Instructor: Kim Larkin Location: Exit 7 Fee: $20 ($12 material fee made payable to the instructor night of
class)
Parent Child Holiday Workshop Come craft together and create this long wooden sled with snow paint, ice glitter,
wooden snowflakes and more! The other team member will make their own unique snow angel Adding sparkling wings
and embellishments. We will also paint a glass Holiday ornament and hot cocoa for all! Bring a box to tote home art-
work. Team supply fee: 17.00 per team made payable to instructor night of class. When: Friday December 3rd One
Night 6:30-9:00pm Location: Exit 7A Instructor: Kim Larkin Fee: $25
SANTA HOT LINE
Pre-register for a very special 2 night service to the North Pole for our special phone line to the Jolly Old Elf himself.
Phone calls to be made December 13, 15, between 4:00- 6:00p.m. Sign up for one of the two days. Limited 35 call each
day. Fee: Free Pick up registration forms after November 15, 2010
SPECIAL DELIVERY: LETTERS TO SANTA
Receive an authentic letter from Santa Claus. Starting November 22nd through December 17th you may drop off your
letter at VINNY'S GARDEN CENTER and receive a letter from Santa. The Recreation Department is no longer collect- Now Accepting Registrations for
ing the letters.
WALLINGFORD HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA!!! Classes - Kinderart & Young Artist
Visits with Santa, Frosty Parade and the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. All events will be held on Saturday December Programs & Adult!
4, 2010 beginning at 2:00p.m. The event will start at the Wallingford Town Hall! Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus 2:00-
4:45p.m. please note the Santa lines ends at 4:45p.m. Horse and Carriage Rides 2:00-5:00p.m. Music, entertainment, Try our Adult Art Classes at
cookies and visits with Toy Soldiers.
Frosty Parade will begin in front of the Town Hall at 5:00 and march to the Johanna Manfreda Fishbein Park fol- Easel Works & soothe the
lowed by music from the Wallingford Chorus, reading of "Twas' The Night Before Christmas" by Mayor William
Dickinson and finally followed by the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. All events sponsored by Wallingford Public
stress away. You’ll love it.
Celebrations and Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department.

Wallingford Holiday Closings - Thanksgiving Holiday EASEL WORKS

Wallingford Town offices will be CLOSED on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26, 2010, in observance Creative Art Studio & Gallery
of the Thanksgiving holiday. The Compost Center, the Recycling Center and the Resident Disposal Center will be
CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day (November 25) but will resume normal working hours starting Friday, Nov 26, at 8 a.m.
294-1548
Wallingford Dolphins Swim Team Season Is Here! 2 Quinnipiac Street, Wallingford
Wallingford Dolphins Swim Season has begun..…It's not too late to join the fun..……Come Make Waves With The
Dolphins by working hands on with the new coaching staff: Coaches: Kait Moss, Glenn Root and Chris Vaughn. Please GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!
check out the team's website for more information. Wallingforddolphins.org or Wallingfordymca.org
Page 26 November 2010

UNDERCOVER INVESTIGATION ON WAYNE BARNESCHI

Trail of Terror Leader Revealed
This newspaper was tipped about horrible, scary and hidden information on Wayne Barneschi. We sent an undercover
reporter in to find out the real truth on what he, his wife Christy, family, friends and volunteers have done over the so called
last "Sweet 16" years of The Trail of Terror. The shocking revelations are revealed below but also it should be known that
apparently this "Trail" thing is an all year event with hard work throughout. Please be aware that some of the information
may shock you.
"The Trail started at our home years ago when we first got married and became popular with the local kids. At first we used to just
decorate our foyer for Halloween, then eventually Wayne decorated the living room in which the kids would go to the front door then
proceed down the porch to gaze in the haunted living room - then it evolved to a real "Trail of Terror" in the back yard, through the
garage and down the driveway. The kids would get candy and then go through our little Trail. Wayne's whole family and our close
friends have always been a part of it since day one (and still are). It was such a passion of Wayne's since childhood, so much fun and
had grown in popularity (the kids would line up waiting to go through), that we decided to find a location and do it for a cause. This is
how we became acquainted with Andrea and all the wonderful people of the Red Cross who have become like family. (and I have to
say we were all devastated when the Red Cross closed last year). Anyway, the rest is history…." - Christy Barneschi
"16 years ago, a young man walked into my office with a dream that would become a life long passion. His dream was to take his
backyard Halloween Haunt to new heights with the ultimate goal of benefiting the Wallingford community. Thus, the Trail of Terror
was born. The Fazzino family donated the use of property next to their business. A perfect location as it had a condemned house
which made a perfect façade/prop for a haunt. With the help of friends like the Fazzino and Willis families, family and local volunteers, the hope of this earnest young man became a reality. From that
first year and a $1,000 donation to the local Red Cross, the event grew, changed and the word spread beyond the area that this was the haunt to see, the place to be. Over the years, because of this
growth, the local community has received the benefit of approximately $600,000. An amazing achievement!
Wayne, his wife Christy, their dedicated and loyal family, friends and volunteers have created a unique, award winning, October event which allows young and old to express their creativity, their hid-
den self. Wayne and Christy have an amazing rapport with the volunteers, especially the youth. They are encouraged to develop their ideas, to keep up their studies and to achieve. Often Wayne and
Christy will support them at their high school events and invite them to participate in the Trail of Terror softball games. The result of all of this dedication - increased revenue to local business and
recognition to the area while providing an affordable evening's entertainment. The greater result - a women and children's floor at the Wallingford Shelter.
Tireless, possessing a great reserve of humor, patience and true caring; dedication to and for all; Wayne is simply a good person. How many of us fall into that category?" - Andrea Balsamo
"I have known Wayne for ten years now and I have to say he the most hardworking, charitable and "dead"icated person in my life. What he does at the Trail is nothing short of a masterful execution of a
vision. How he is able to orchestrate the Trail's numerous moving parts from construction all the way through to last night and beyond is truly a task that I think few could pull off. On a personal level
what the Trail and therefore Wayne has done for me is unable to be written in anything short of a manuscript for a live action adaptation of "War and Peace" as performed in ancient Sumerian and for
that I am truly grateful. Wayne is one of the few on my short list that I know I could call onto for anything and truly a person I am honored to call a friend." - Chris Grande
"If Wayne Barneschi were sent to the Middle East, we would see lasting peace in about a week or so." - Lou Harmon
"Wayne is the kind of person that I model myself after...I strive to be as understanding and compassionate as him...but most of all I would love to share his optimism...He is a born leader." - Skippy
"I am so extremely proud of all he has accomplished and the people that he has helped in so many various ways. His passion comes from the heart and I really don't even think he realizes the affect he
has had and continues to have on people of all ages. He is caring, honest, dependable, sincere, giving, humble, loyal, wise, passionate, loving - a man of great character. Being with him continually
teaches me to be a better person and I always aspire to be more like him. He is incredible and I am truly blessed to be married to such a wonderful person and I love him with all my heart." - Christy
"Wayne is a great person who is whole hearted. Wayne has helped fix my roof when me and my father couldn't fix it. He has given all of us a place to go to get our aggression out by building/fixing
things and then scaring people come October. I personally don't know what I would have done if I had never met Wayne, because he gave me a great family of people who I know will always be there
no matter what. I used to get told if I got a bad grade on a test or my report card I was not able to do the Trail. He is like my second father and he cares deeply for everyone he comes in contact with. I
love Wayne and he is an amazing person to ever work side by side down at the Trail of Terror." - Caitlin Richard
"Wayne is the perfect role model for the teens working at the Trail....totally dedicated to a cause...Honest...mild mannered and always.....ALWAYS wearing a SMILE....""HE IS AN ANGEL IN DIS-
GUISE "" - Jeff and Bettie Peterson
"I have been fortunate to have known Wayne for most of my life. When he (and several other good friends) started what was to become the Trail of Terror in his backyard nearly 20 years ago, it was
because of his fondness for horror movies and scaring people. None of us ever envisioned it growing into the monstrous (pun intended) attraction it has become. He's like a father figure to many of the
kids who now (and in the past) volunteer at the Trail of Terror because of his compassion, empathy and yearning to make a difference in their lives. To those of us who are older, he's just a great friend
and someone who always has a ready smile and a wonderful sense of humor. Wayne Barneschi is one of those people who will laugh with you, cry with you, lend you his shoulder, or lend you a hand.
He's has a positive impact on just about everyone he comes into contact with. I consider Wayne family and my teenage boys do, too, and I truly feel fortunate to have the life-long friendship we share."
- Trish Pattison
"Hey Wayne; can.........NNOOOO!!!!" "Hey Wayne; where........in my truck." - Matt Polverari
"Wayne is an incredible person in every way possible! :-)" - Sam Michaud
"Wayne is the kind of guy that no matter how cold it may be outside, He'd give you the shirt off his back if he knew you needed it more than him" - Sean Saunders
"Wayne is the most whole hearted, generous person I have ever met. He is surrounded with great people and an amazing family. He is a hero in my eyes and everyone around him." -Sarah Thuerling
"I am a firm believer that Wayne was put on this earth to enrich people's lives. He has gone above and beyond, touching each person in a special way. He deserves and receives respect and love from
each and every member of the Boo Crew. An amazing man, an amazing friend." - Nancy Franci
"Wayne Barneschi is the kindest man I have ever met. The first time I met Wayne, he didn't even know me, but he was willing to loan props from the Trail to me for a play at Lyman Hall. Not only did
he give us props we asked for, but he also went through the Trail and kept asking if we wanted this or that. Our set was amazing because of Wayne's kindness. Since that first meeting, I have gotten to
know Wayne very well, and am happy to call him a friend. Wayne has unending patience as he deals with people of all ages working at the Trail. Even when he is being pulled in ten directions at once,
he answers all questions with a smile. While many people know that Wayne is a philanthropist, I am not sure how many people realize just how much giving to others means to him; Wayne is the epito-
me of what it is to be a contributing member of society." - Jenn Castelli
"Wayne is an incredibly dedicated, warm and loving person with a passion for helping people and Halloween." - EL Gambardella, Wolfie Ventriglia
"Wayne Barneschi is one of the most hardworking, passionate, and caring individuals and I feel honored to have worked
CELEBRATIONS with him for the last 16 years. Or as he would say since I was a fetus. He has a great heart and has continuously given
children, teenagers and adults a way to come together to create a family of misfits. I know that creating this fantasy
world of the Trail of Terror has not been easy. But he has surpassed everyone's expectations every year and he will con-
tinue to do so as long as the Trail remains a Halloween attraction." - Shelby Threloff
"To anyone who Knows Wayne, this makes perfect sense. I want to be more like him. He is fun to be around, I do not
know how he does it, always calm and proper.... gives as a friend, a father figure to many, and a role model. To me he is
like a Brother, that I look up to.... if I pick up 1/10 th of what I admire about Wayne, I will be Blessed, and that is all
aside from the Trail of Terror. Thanks Wayne for just being You! "- Peter Franci
"The people I admire most are those who are dedicated to their passion. Wayne Barneschi's passion is helping people.
He has been able to raise large amounts of money through his tireless efforts of creating and running the Trail of Terror
each October in Wallingford. His dedication has created a large following of equally dedicated volunteers who help him
carry out his quest to raise money for the benefit of the Wallingford community. We all owe Wayne a tremendous thank
you for all he has done to help those most in need in Wallingford. Thank you Wayne." - Mary Jayne Somers
"I am a 25 year Red Cross volunteer and a 7 year volunteer at the Wallingford Emergency Shelter --both agencies have
been the recipients of the generosity of Christy, Wayne and the Boo Crew.
Wayne impresses me as an insightful, innovative and inspirational man. His energy, enthusiasm and creativity have no
limits. Nothing is impossible. He sees a need and he goes to whatever lengths required to fulfill the need. He automati-
cally puts the needs of others ahead of his own. In spite of the magnitude of his enormous contributions to this commu-
nity he remains humble and modest about his achievements. He is an extraordinary role model and citizen. Wayne
makes this world a better place for all of us." - Peter Chester
We are so sad to have uncovered this imformation on Wayne, Christy, Family, Friends and Volunteers. To
think that they are genuinely nice people with totally good intentions is just flat out bad. It breaks my heart to
reveal all of this to you.
IN RETROSPECT
(a postlude by Priscilla Reynolds)
I remember Lew and I driving up Parker Farms Road after dropping off our son at University of Maine, half awake,
but suddenly wide awake, hearing booming sounds one half mile away. As we drew closer to our home, the sound of a
keyboard, guitars, bass, and drums bore down on us. The noise was unbearable to us but not to our youngest son who
took pride in arranging this party. There were throngs of people encircling our yard. However, none of our neighbors
were forewarned and Mom and Pop shared in their aversion and reacted in a negative way, breaking up the party within
A Love Card To Mommy from Neal and the dog too! thirty minutes. . Perhaps, we were wrong; WE SHOULD HAVE DANCED TO THE MUSIC1

Take a Trip with the Wallingford Family YMCA!
The Wallingford Family YMCA are offering the following Luxury coach bus
trips: Mohegan Sun(Jan. 17, Jan. 22, Feb. 13 and March 17); Radio City
Christmas Spectacular(Dec. 4, 5 or Dec. 12); and Radio City Christmas Show
and Atlantic City(Dec. 5-6); UCONN Women's Basketball(Feb. 26-27). Pre-
Registration is required. For more information; please contact Lisa Hoover at
lhoover@wallingfordymca.org
CELEBRATIONS
I am grateful this Thanksgiving for having spent six wonderful years here
in my paradise home. I was rescued six years ago by my mom just after
Thanksgiving in 2004, and she took me to live indoors, after a life lived
totally outdoors, with her other two kitties, Belle and Babe at the time, but
now Belle and Beau. I am about 20 years old, and I love the comforts I
never knew existed before I came here. I hope that other kitties can also be
rescued and find warmth and love. Mimi.
CELEBRATIONS
Our Favorite "Clown" at Parker Farms School!
* Auto * Home * Business * Life
John J. Kovacs Insurance Agency
208 Center Street, Wallingford
Office: (203) 269-2500
Life Insurance underwritten by Nationwide Life Insurance Company Nationwide Mutual Insurance
Company and affiliated Companies Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215-2220
Page 27 November 2010
MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY NOVEMBER PROGRAMS
MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND HOURS
Meriden Public Library will be closing at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 24 and closed all day on Thursday,
November 25 to celebrate Thanksgiving Day. The library will reopen for business on Friday, November 26 and
Saturday, November 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00p.m. The library's business hours are: Monday through Wednesday,
9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and Thursday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and closed Sunday.
"CROESO I CYMRU - WELCOME TO WALES" NOVEMBER 20 AT MERIDEN LIBRARY
Terence Clarke will be presenting his program "Croeso I Cymru-Welcome to Wales" on Saturday, November 20 at 3:00
pm in the Griffin Room of Meriden Public Library. Mr. Clarke would like to share pictures of his recent vacation in
Wales, some Welsh history, amusing road signs, and something called the skid patch. He will also include information
about Wales during World War II. Come and enjoy crossing the Severn Bridge from England into South Wales. Travel
through the hills and valleys to Swansea Bay and the beautiful beaches of the Gower peninsular. On the way you will
see some medieval castles, ancient stone circles and caves and hear a Welsh male voice choir. This program is free and
all are invited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have questions about library pro-
grams.
FREE COMPUTER CLASSES IN NOVEMBER
Not very confident using email, Word, or searching the internet? Sign up for one of the free computer classes at
Meriden Public Library. The class schedule is as follows: Email -Monday, November 22 at 6:30 pm.
Basic Computers -Saturday, November 20 at 9:30 am. Internet Searching -Saturday, November 27 at 9:30 am.
Computer Classes in Spanish - Monday, November 15, 22, 29 and Wednesday, November 3,
10, 17 at 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm.
Class size is limited. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or the Information Desk at
(203) 238-2346 to reserve a seat.
SCRABBLE SESSIONS AT MERIDEN LIBRARY
Meriden Public Library is hosting evening sessions for people who enjoy playing Scrabble. The afternoon sessions will
be on in Monday, November 22 at 2:00 pm in the Friends Room. The evening sessions will be held on Tuesday,
November 23 at 6:00 pm in the Griffin Room. All skill levels are welcome. Scrabble boards will be provided, but peo-
ple are welcome to bring their own boards. Contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 if you have
any questions about the library programs.
LUNCHTIME BOOK CLUB
The Meriden Public Library's lunchtime book club meets on Thursdays at noon in the Friends Room. Bring your lunch
and enjoy the discussion.
November 18 - Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann December 16 - A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
All are welcome. The books are available in a display across from the Information Desk. Contact Laura at (203) 238-
2346 to sign up.
WRITERS NETWORK AT MERIDEN LIBRARY NOVEMBER 16
Meriden Public Library will host the Writers Network group on Tuesday, Tuesday, November 16 at 7:00 p.m. in the
Friends Room. We invite anyone who is serious about writing fiction or nonfiction, wants to learn the process of getting
published, or needs support for writing a book proposal or query letter to attend. The Writers Network is for anyone
who is looking for a support network to keep the motivation going, is interested in sharing their writing with others and
is longing for the camaraderie of others who share a passion for writing. If you are interested in joining the Writers
Network, contact the Community Services Department at (203) 630-6349 or email us comsvc@hotmail.com.
ANIME CLUB NOVEMBER 19
The Teen Anime Club at the Meriden Public Library will meet on Friday, November 19th at 2:30 pm in the Griffin
Room. This month we are making bubble magnets of our favorite anime characters. Pictures will be provided but if you
want to bring your own they should be about the size of a dime or quarter. We will also be watching the second
Inuyasha movie. Japanese snacks and drinks will be provided. This program is for teens age 13-18. Sign up is not
required but if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like more information contact Melissa at mmur-
phy@ci.meriden.ct.us or call (203) 238-2347.
GET YOUR GAME ON GET YOUR GAME ON @ MERIDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY NOVEMBER 23
Get your game on at the Meriden Public Library on Tuesday November 23rd at 2:30 in the Griffin Room. The Wii will
be set up on the big screen for friends and family to challenge each other to a different game each week. Board games
such as Scrabble, Apples to Apples, Candyland and many others will also be available for use. All ages are welcome to
attend including parents and guardians. Registration is not required. If you have any questions please contact Melissa at
mmurphy@ci.meriden.ct.us or call (203) 630-6347.
BOOKMOBILE IN NOVEMBER
The Bookmobile, or Library on Wheels, will be visiting the following facilities in November:
Wednesday, Nov. 17 - First Congregational Nursery School 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM: St. John's Nursery School 10:30 AM
- 11:15 AM; First Congregational Nursery School 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM;
Thursday, Nov. 18 - First Congregational Nursery School 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM: St. John's Nursery School 10:30 AM -
11:15 AM; St. John's Nursery School 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM;
Friday, Nov. 19 - St. Stan's 9:30 AM - 10:15 AM; Miller Memorial 10:45 - 11:45 AM;
Tuesday, Nov. 23 - Catholic Charities 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM; Kinder Garden Learning Center 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM;
Monday, Nov. 29 - Center Congregational Nursery School 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM ; Women & Families Center 10:15 AM
- 11:30 AM; Village at Kensington Place 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM;
Tuesday, Nov. 30 - Lil Rascals 9:30 AM - 10:15 AM; Sunshine Day Care 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM.
Wallingford Public Library Children's Library
We Love Books! Me Gustan los Libros!
Come have twice the fun in our bilingual storytime! Maria Ruiz offers storytimes for children ages 3-8 and their
grown-ups in both English and Spanish at the Wallingford Public Library.
Come join Maria on Monday Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the Children's Program Room.
Family Game Night: Unplugged!
Bring your family to the Wallingford Public Library on Friday, November 19th at 7:00 p.m. We've got a wide variety
of great games for you to enjoy. Gameboards provide many opportunities for fun, reading, logical thinking and more!
Thanksgiving Tea
Kids ages 3-10, and their grown-ups, are invited to the Wallingford Public Library on Thursday, November 18, from
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. for a Thanksgiving Tea. Bring a canned good, and give thanks at this special tea.
Dress up is optional; but all Pilgrims, Native Americans and Turkeys are welcome as we celebrate being together for
this holiday of appreciation. Tea and snacks will be served. Contact the Children's Library at 203-284-6436 to register
for this free event.
Page 28 November 2010
Rock of Cashel
The AOH Hall, 71 Melville Ave, Meriden, CT will have the band "Rock of
Cashel" playing Traditional Irish Music, Irish Folk and Rock and Roll.
Friday, November 26th, 2010 7:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m. (the Friday after
Thanksgiving) Come down and bring a friend! Open to the public.
Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action. ~W.J. Cameron
SILVER CITY COIN & STAMPS
COLLECTIBLES
STAMPS • COVERS • COINS • TOKENS
PAPER MONEY • POSTCARDS • HOBBY SUPPLIES
FIND OUT WHAT YOUR COLLECTION IS WORTH!
41 COLONY STREET, MERIDEN, CT 06451
(203) 235-7634
People’s Press Crossword by Ruth Gordon
Look for the answers in this issue.
ACROSS
1. Therefore
3. Carnival sideshow employee
9. Small morsel of food
11. Fish eggs
12. Concept found in ancient Chinese
philosophy and religion;
14. Human audio receiver
15. Edge or border of a garment,
drape, etc.
16. South-central state is nicknamed
the "Volunteer State", (abbr.)
17. Parent
18. This symbol, ??F , represents
this fraternal organization on college
campuses
19. Hawaiian dish made from taro
root
20. "Beauty is ____ beauty does."
21. Cheer heard at bull fight
22. Established in 1798, U.S. military
organization is famous for its "esprit
de corps", (abbr)
23. In debt
24. Hospital employees who are reg-
istered and licensed by the state to
practice (abbr)
25. English nursery rhyme girl who
"lost her pocket", (initials)
26. Person who uses a sieve to sepa-
rate and retain the coarse parts
29. Electronics corporation which
was identified by its logo "his mas-
ters voice" (abbr.)
31. Form of the common carp, this
colorful fish originated in Japan.
32. Egyptian sun god.
33. Hence
34. Branch of knowledge or study of
the physical or material world.
(abbr.)
36. An instrument of manual opera-
tion.
38. A female servant
40. A blood constituent associated
with "good" cholesterol. (abbr.)
41. Temporary fashion trends.
42. A British island in the English
Channel, its capital is St. Helier.
Down
1. Thus
2. Famous Nabisco cookies.
4. "Little Rock" is this states capital.
(abbr.)
5. This one is in Meriden. (see 17
down)
6. Retain.
7. American actor who starred in
"Ivanhoe" with Elizabeth Taylor in
1952. (initials)
8. Drive-In restaurant at 1033 North
Colony Road, Wallingford.
10. A Scottish cap.
13. It is made up of a nucleus, neu-
trons and protons.
17. See 5 down and name shown in
circled letters reading diagonally the medical saga. But no. Approximately three years ago arthritis walked into the door. A shot in the knee worked
from bottom to top of crossword.
18. Popular pub beverage.
19. An exclamation used to attract
someone's attention in an unobtrusive can get them. I will try whatever else can be done first. Trying to poke fun at an un-fun situation. Believe me or not.
manner.
21. A "wise" nocturnal bird.
22. Unsuitable.
23. Spanish word for "wave".
24. Spanish for "river".
26. A way to travel on snow.
27. Slowly disintegrate.
28. A coming together of persons for Turkey Hill Coffee ice cream. And will bring along my periscope so I can check on the weather up above and TV set so
common action.
30. A state of unconsciousness.
34. A female relative. (informal)
35. "Nicholas Nickleby" was one of
many books written by this author.
(initials)
37. Exclamation used as an expres-
sion of surprise. (plural)
39. Commercial.
Please Help Wallingford's Holiday for Giving Program
The Holiday for Giving Program is a community organization run by volunteers; it functions solely on donations from
individuals, organizations and local businesses. All donations are given directly back to those in need in the Wallingford
Community. The core committee of 15 volunteers meets during the year to plan the December give-aways.
We operate with the co-operative effort of many organizations including the Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department,
Peer Advocate and National Honor Society members from Lyman Hall and Sheehan, Dag Hammarskjold Girl's
Basketball team, Dag Builder's Club, students, teachers, and administrators in all the town schools, the Wallingford
Public Library and the Town of Wallingford employees.
We receive support services from the Wallingford Youth & Social Services, the Public Works Department, the
Electric Division and all the Fire Departments.
There is a true pooling of resources of volunteers, organizations, clubs, corporations, small businesses and individu-
als. With the dedication of time, donated goods and monetary donations from all these groups combined, we are able to
provide hundreds of Wallingford families with a little "Holiday Magic".
We hope you will help us create some "Holiday Magic" this season.
Our Mission:
To provide Wallingford families, facing hardships, with food on their tables, smiles on their children's faces and joy in
their hearts for providing a little "Holiday Magic" in their Holiday Season.
Location: NEW LOCATION BEGINNING 2010
Holiday for Giving - 6 Fairfield Blvd. (Youth & Social Services Bldg.) - Wallingford, CT 06492
Mailing address: Holiday for Giving P.O. Box 1612, Wallingford, CT 06492
Holiday for Giving/Youth & Social Services - 203-294-2175
There are a large list of drop-off points in Wallingford. Visit our website at www.holidayforgiving.com for the full list.
Our 2010 Hours at our location: For donations of food, toys and gift certificates.
Monday, Dec. 6th - Thursday Dec. 9th - 9 am - 3 pm Friday, Dec. 10th - 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday, Dec. 11th - 10 am - 4:00 pm Monday, Dec. 13th (last day for donations) - 9 am - 5:30 pm
You may contact us at 203-294-2175, leave a message and we will return your call asap.
Bobbie's Bevy of Beauties
My usual first sentence when I write my last article till next Spring. Where did spring and summer go? Wasn't it April
1st only a couple of weeks ago? The older one becomes the faster time flies. As you know November, December,
January and February are my least favorite months. If the temp. stayed in the sixties then I would definitely change my
mind. One never knows with the month of March. This past year if not the warmest it's ever been then close to it.
Let's hope the same for 2011.
With some delightful days and the temperature not taking a nose dive at night the annuals are holding their own.
Can't see pulling them up until that frost attacks. A couple of mass perennial flower beds and the tall thick stem Helena
and hibiscus were cut down, raked up and disposed of by our very capable front lawn man and shrub trimmer Carl and
his son. To do this with clippers or pruning sheers is quite a task. And they'll take care of our final leaf raking too. The
dahlias and four o'clock tubers can wait for another couple of weeks before being dug up, placed in containers of peat
moss and put back into the cellar. The do have to be removed before the ground starts to freeze.
Most of my adult life I've been a fairly healthy person. The usual colds and pneumonia twice. Well things certainly
changed this summer. Woke up one morning in July with a runny, drooping right eye. The left side of my face para-
lyzed. Not able to swallow food or liquid on the right side of my mouth and speech impaired. Not a stroke but Bel's
Palsy. Had a blood test which showed I was bitten by a tick and ended up with an acute case of Lyme's disease. Did
not have the red rash which sometimes accompanies it. It can also effect the joints. Maybe about 90% cured at the pre-
sent moment . Some sources say this causes the Bel's. Others say no. Then came the sore throat, head and chest cold.
Those were mild compared to sciatica which ran down from my right posterior to the foot. Thought that was the end of
wonders. After that a twinge of pain every now and then. With all the med problems this summer arthritis invited itself
in again. From my waist to my toes. Sleeping and stairs are a killer. "HURT!" On treatment, I do have some relief.
Three words were mentioned. "Knee/Hip Replacement." They are sitting on the top shelf in the closet as far back as I
I'm not looking for sympathy. Regardless of everything I will not sit around. Am still going at a pretty good pace.
Probably my hibernation will be a big help. Time will tell.
Jodie, John and the three girls are without their beloved Napoleon. A black French bull dog only a little over two
came down with severe seizures which ended his life. Now Chloe, a two month old French bull dog, fawn colored, with
a narrow white fur streak down the front of her face resides with them and all their other pets. May she have a happy,
healthy long life.
My hibernation plans are just about all taken care of. The tomato sandwiches are made and bought my supply of
I will be able to watch our UConn women basketball games. Every year I ask LitlBit if he will join me in my one room
peat moss abode underneath the bench at the end of the backyard and receive the same answer. "NO." He said his
daddy's large, well padded lap is more comfortable for lazing around and sleeping on than my small bony one. The
crawly little creatures have become my companions for so long that I'm quite use to them. But LitlBit will join and help
Jimmy to remove me from my residence when the warm weather returns. Usually March or April. If you see someone
who looks just like me it's not I. My double shows up when I've retired to my little retreat. She will take LitlBit for his
walks, feed our cats, help with the household chores and even do some shoveling. Thank goodness for her. If you run
into my double say hello. She's a very friendly person and loves to chit chat.
It's definitely time for me to put my pen down. After this article I hope Andy will let me write again in "The People's
Press" next year.
A fond farewell to all. Flowercerely yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien
What My City Kitchen has done for ME!
I like that we learn how to eat healthy and it's fun and that we have to yell "Hot
Pot" when we are putting it in the sink. We learned how to cook pasta and lots
more. I also like to bake because it is fun too. I like to bake cupcakes. I'm in
6th Grade and I go to Edison. - Dashley C.
I'm learning how to prepare and cook healthy meals and snacks. I enjoy meet-
ing new friends and our instructor Kashia makes it fun! This is a place that I feel
is MY KITCHEN!
P.S. Don't forget to say HOT POT! Shiovona C. from Washington Middle
School, 7th Grade
I like the fact that it is so healthy and that it's fun at the same time. I love say-
ing "HOT POT" really loud. I like cooking and juggling the fake pinecones on
the table. I go to Our Lady of Mount Carmel - Lily P. - 8th Grade
Our Mission: My City Kitchen, Inc. (MCK) is a 501(c) (3) tax deductible Public Charity Organization. Our mission at
MCK is to instill healthy eating habits, build self-esteem, foster a sense of belonging, establish basic life skills in our
children so that they may grow into healthy adults. To teach kids about food, and food products. We hope to encourage
kids to take a keen interest in what they eat, where the food comes from, and especially how to prepare it by offering
classes on a weekly basis.
My City Kitchen is located at 384 Pratt Street in Meriden. You can reach the office at: 203-630-2870
Kashia Cave is the President / Executive Director. Visit www.mycitykitchen.org for more information.
Upcoming Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce Events:
Nov. 18, Thu. Special Business After Hours followed by Statewide Transition Expo - Businesses are invited at 5
pm for a BAH followed by a great event to highlight the benefits and resources available to employers who employ
individuals with disabilities! Don't miss it - Great networking, refreshments & more! Held at Four Points Sheraton,
275 Research Pkwy., Meriden. No Fee - RSVP: 203.235.7901.
 Page 29 November 2010

CHORALE CONNECTICUT TO PRESENT WINTER CONCERT

Join us for a star-studded Saturday evening or Sunday afternoon of holiday entertainment as Chorale Connecticut pre- CELEBRATIONS
sents its winter concert "Tinsel Time" on Saturday, December 4th, at 7:30 PM and on Sunday, December 5th, at 4 PM
at the First United Methodist Church, 159 E. Main Street, Meriden. The concert will spotlight old and new holiday
favorites from the Silver Screen and the Broadway Stage. "Christmas on Broadway," "A Charlie Brown Christmas,"
"You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," "Happy Holiday/White Christmas" and "Rudolph" are a few of the selections to lift
your holiday spirits.
Tickets: $18 in advance and $20 at the door. Seniors (65) and students $15 and children 12 and under admitted free
with a canned good for the Town Food Pantry. Tickets are available at the following locations: JC Music, 519 West
Main Street, Meriden; Gallagher Travel, 390 Center Street, Wallingford; Valencia Liquor Shop, Ames Plaza on East
Main Street, Meriden; Just For You Country Gifts, Rte. 322, Southington and The Music Shop, 405 Queen Street,
Southington. For more information, visit www.choralect.com or call (860)621-1653.

Masters Manna Food Pantry News November 2010

Masters Manna Food Pantry Events and News. November is going to be a busy one for us and we'll need extra hands
for some big events. If you haven't done so, please check out the website www.mastersmanna.org or facebook to keep
up with what's going on. Here are some of our immediate events :
November 23 - Turkey Tossing Tuesday. Also, we need volunteers all day on Tuesday to help give out food at the
pantry and hand out turkeys for Thanksgiving! Again, please contact Master's Manna and let us know you'll help!
What started out as only one kid and 8 adults has grown to 10 kids and 10
Our Phone number is 203-678-3042 during the day. Please also donate Turkey's to Masters Manna so we have enough
adults! The adults stole all the candy from the kids. So sad!
for those families in need.

MERIDEN YMCA THANKSGIVING DINNER CELEBRATIONS

Volunteers and Donations needed for Meriden YMCA Thanksgiving Dinner
The Meriden YMCA is not just a place to nurture the development of children and teens and help families lead healthi-
er lives. We also have a mission to support our community and reach out to help our neighbors in need. Each year on
Thanksgiving Day we deliver meals to the homebound and hold a Community Thanksgiving Dinner at the Y where all
are welcome. The dinner begins at 12pm. We're looking for volunteers between 12pm-2pm to help deliver meals, and
work at the dinner setting up, serving, and cleaning up. Donations of nonperishable food for families would be much
appreciated. Share the Thanksgiving spirit and help us help our neighbors in our community. Call the Meriden YMCA
at 203-235-6386 for more information. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
About the Meriden YMCA
The YMCA nurtures the development of children and teens, helps families lead healthier lives, and reaches out to sup-
port our community. The Meriden YMCA is located at 110 West Main Street in Meriden. For more information visit
www.meridenymca.org

FILL A FIRE TRUCK WITH TOYS

The Yalesville Volunteer Fire Department is hosting our 9th Annual FILL a FIRE TRUCK WITH TOYS Event
All toys and proceeds will be donated to and distributed by the Wallingford Holiday for Giving Committee.
Please bring new unwrapped toys to the Yalesville Volunteer Fire Station at 143 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville.
Friday December 10 from 4-8PM Saturday December 11 from 8AM-4PM
The Meriden Motorcycle Club held the last NETRA Jr. Enduro of the sea-
"Connecticut Women Artists Member Show" son on Saturday 10/30/10. Despite injuring his leg in the first lap Bobby
2010 November Events at Gallery 53 / Arts & Crafts Association of Meriden will host an exhibit of paintings and continued the race and finished in 3rd. From left to right are Andrew,
sculptures entitled "Connecticut Women Artists Member Show" from November 6th to December 3rd. Admission is Bobby, Holly and Zach. Bobby’s friends were there to cheer him on. All
free with ample parking across the street. The Gallery is open Tuesday through Friday 12-4p.m. and Saturday 10a.m.- four kids are 8th graders at Washington Middle School.
2p.m.Located at 53 Colony Street, Meriden. 203-235-5347
Page 30 November 2010
CELEBRATIONS
Alexis in her Mummy costume bought by Auntie Cindi!
CELEBRATIONS
"I'm so cute, my family let's me get away with almost anything" - Bella
spoiled by Rose & Peter Ciardiello
This edition of “The People’s Press, Your Town, Your News, Your
Views” serves the needs of the communities of Wallingford and Meriden,
Connecticut. For safety reasons we do not publish the last name of
artists/writers under the age of 15. 5% of all annual net proceeds are
donated in kind or in financial donation to local charities and organiza-
tions.
This newspaper is not affiliated with any other newspaper.
Publisher: Andrew Reynolds
peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com
Managing Editor Andrew Reynolds
andy@peoplespressnews.com
Copy Editor Andrew Reynolds
andy@peoplespressnews.com
Advertising Andrew Reynolds
andy@peoplespressnews.com
Web Site Web Solutions, LLC
Writers YOU WRITE IT....WE PRINT IT!!!
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LIFE......OR SOMETHING LIKE IT
Written by: Carolyn R. Ciccarelli
It's been a long while since I've been able to write anything worth speaking of. To be honest my words on paper were
always stronger than the words coming from my mouth. I was born an Aquarius so my mind works 24/7 with not a
single coffee break unless I will it to do so. It's a tall order though to get my thoughts stopping cold turkey and to
actually appreciate the silence. The ability to actually hear myself thinking one thing at a time without constant traffic
jams and chaos would be a nice personalized gift. Indeed, I was also known as one of those children who day dreamed
too much in school when I should have been paying attention to the lessons. My teachers thought children like me
were dangerous; always head in the clouds with silly ideas of how the world should be, or rather how we want it to be.
I even recall one or two of my teachers yelling at me for having too active of an imagination. If that is such a crime, I
should be serving life in prison. I look back at the 25 years of my existence in this world and most times I feel I'm
going to be sick. You sit and wonder, how in the name of all that is good and wholesome can one human being take on
so much of their life without going star-cursing mad?! I wish I had an answer to my own question, but sadly, I do not.
What I seem to want to offer myself is a life time worth of the things that make me happy and the adventures I live.
As a communications graduate in an economy gone terribly wrong, I have never really found a place for my voice to
be heard. A secret you should know about this writer, I'm a radio dj who took a break cause I can't seem to find a sta-
tion that desires a voice like mine. For those of you who take the time to read this newspaper and see new entrees
from people such as myself, thank you in advance for you are my new audience!
At this moment I am unbelievably curious. How many of you were huge fans of the classic fairy tale stories your
parents read to you or you watched on day time television? The correct statistics would prove about half would say
you loved them and the other half will criticize them for not having any ties to reality. In fairness to the ones who did-
n't enjoy fairy tales, I actually applaud you for having such a tight grasp on reality and your feet planted firmly to the
ground. However, on the flipside I must feel sorry for you and wonder if you also didn't believe in Santa Clause, the
Easter Bunny or the Tooth Fairy when you were young. Please understand that there is no shame whatsoever in once
upon a time thinking these characters actually existed! You were living in the age of innocence; you could have had a
chance to make up an imaginary friend or even think pigs would sprout wings and fly! I mean why the heck not? It's
the power of your imagination, go nuts. Now we get to the ones who did in fact enjoy those fairy tale stories. The
girls loved the idea of finding Prince Charming, communication with the animals of the land and one day living
"Happily Ever After". Then there are the boys who read about the hero fighting off the terrible fire breathing dragon
and rescuing the fair maiden. If not that one then the comedy of certain fairy tales that show young boys no matter
what animal, thing, or human you are, you can make as many friends as you want and join together in big groups. I
will forever be a neutral party when it comes to difference in opinion that surrounds young minds. I also think person-
ally we all want our own versions of a "happily ever after", but unfortunately, life is just not like that, which gets me to
the heart of this matter.
It's a weird thing that happens to us, coming out of the age of innocence and starting to really open up our eyes and
see things for what they really are. The experience of many different emotions, many new feelings that we were too
young to understand and now as growing adults can see more clearly, etc. Does anyone ever wonder if we could go
back to just being naive and innocent now that we have seen the world for what it is outside our imaginations? This
writer sure as heck does. In fact, there are individuals like me who have such an "old soul" as the saying goes that I
don't see the need to add more realism to what I already understand. It's like adding some kind of insult to an old
injury. After reviewing my personal experiences and how much has come to pass over the years, I have to suck it up
and take everything that life shows me with a grain of salt. There are days when I just want to run off into the abyss
and never return. Then there are those days where all I want to do is grab a pillow and scream, or hit a punching bag
for a few minutes then have a solid cry. None of the above behaviors solves anything or makes life easier to handle.
I've come to learn that you just need to work with the hand that you were dealt and see it to the end. I'm not saying
life is like a game of poker where if you get dealt a bad hand you fold right away because you know you won't win. In
the sense of the actual game, yes, that is how it's played, but I steer the "FOR FUN" part. Life is not a poker game,
you just get dealt a certain hand, trade off a few cards here and there as you go through the motions in life, but you
KEEP PLAYING.
There are things this writer refuses to speak of to keep this paper rated PG, so keeping with fairy tale metaphors and
card game references I shall continue. Unfortunately, there are those people in this world who aren't strong enough to
keep their heads in the game, or in life really, and do in fact choose to fold. Some by choice, which is a hardship to
deal with for anyone involved with said person and the ones who had to fold due to natural occurrences that really left
them with no alternative. This writer strongly urges anyone and everyone to stay strong no matter what life may deal
you. You were born to make mistakes and learn from them. Realize that the individuals you meet and grow relation-
ships with are priceless. They are people who will influence and help you learn the tricks of the trade we call life, and
become a better person each day. I can't actually sit here and say fairy tales don't come true, I would be quite cruel and
way too much of a realist. This writer does believe in the following: shooting stars, miracles, love at first site, and the
will to be my master and commander of my life. I sure as heck hope at least the last thing applies to the majority that
reads this paper; it is after all known as The People's Press.
In closing, with the holidays and the end of 2010 literally right around the corner, it's obvious that this story was just
an inserted friendly reminder. Take a moment right now and look around your home. Get an enclosed 360 degree
view of your surroundings: your husband/wife, boyfriend/girlfriend, immediate family/family animal, friends/support
system, and your earthly belongings. If everyone is with me at this point then you are taking the time to "smell the
roses"; you are appreciating everything that you were dealt in this life. Feels good doesn't it? All of the banter about
fairy tales and card games mean absolutely NOTHING when it comes to just you and what you have around you right
now in THIS moment. Cherish, be thankful, remind your loved ones that you and they exist on common ground no
matter what obstacles come your way. Remember, you only have one life to live. Fill it with love, hope, and most
importantly, never be ashamed of your imagination, old and new minds. As stated earlier: "It's your imagination, GO
NUTS"!
The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these
who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving. ~H.U. Westermayer
 Page 31 November 2010
The People's Press will be having 2 Something that has always puzzled me all my life is why, when I am in spe-
issues in December to serve your cial need of help, the good deed is usually done by somebody on whom I
needs. The first will be your tradi- have no claim. ~William Feather
tional paper and the 2nd will be our
annual "Holiday Magic" issue featur-
ing all of your Happy Holiday pho- CELEBRATIONS
tos, stories and more. The deadlines
are December 1st for the December
issue and December 12th for our
"Holiday Magic" issue!

PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never

known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of
Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Meriden Raiders Cheer Competition
Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of
God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my
The mighty mights are a noncompetitive team that won best stunting spirit Colors Dancing in the Wind by Rachel. Simply Beautiful!
necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and
award. My team, the 10 and under squad won 2nd place The 12 and under
show me that you are my mother. Oh Holy squad won 1st place...Our 2 older squads advance to State's competition,
Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven which will be held in November . Submitted by Antonietta Carusone
and earth, I humbly seek you from the bot-
tom of my heart to secure me in my neces-
sity. (Make your request). There are none
that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary,
conceived without sin, pray for us who
have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary,
I place this prayer in your hands (3 times).
Say this prayer for three consecutive days
and then you must publish it and it will be Complete Residential and
granted to you. Grateful Thanks. F.G.R.
Commercial Services!
SCREENED TOP SOIL
*Prompt Delivery
* Farm Quality
* Stone Free
SEPTIC SERVICE
* Septic Tank Cleaning
* Installation & Repair
* Sewer Connections
MULCH
* Natural
* Color Enhanced
PRAYER TO The Blessed Virgin: Never
known to fail. Oh most beautiful power of
Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of
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
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-
sity. (Make your request). There are none
that can withstand your pwer. Oh Mary,
conceived without sin, pray for us who
203.269.0135
have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary,
I place this prayer in your hands (3 times).
Say this prayer for three consecutive days
324 High Hill Road Proudly Serving the
Local Community
and then you must publish it and it will be
granted to you. Grateful Thanks. S.B.K.
Wallingford Since 1949

11/30/10
6/30/10
Page 32 November 2010
MERIDEN FEED FARM • GARDEN • PET SUPPLIES
$5 OFF 50% OFF
ANY DOG BED
PURCHASE OF $20 OR MORE
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
$42.00 Frontline Plus
Any 3 Month Supply
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
$17.99 $36.99 $43.99
Black Oil Sunflower Seed
50lb Bag
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
$45.99 $19.99 $35.99
BLUE SEAL Chicken &
Rice Adult 30lb
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
846 Old Colony Rd., Meriden
203-237-4414
Buy One...Get One
DOG & CAT TOYS
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
$35.99
California Natural
Lamb & Rice 30lb
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
Innova Adult 30lb
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
Ultimate Berry Flavored
Birdseed Mix 40lb
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
$5 OFF
ANY BIRD FEEDER
PURCHASE OF $30 OR
MORE
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
$11.99
HEATH SUET CAKES
Stop by for the best in Holiday
Dining and Entertainment!
CASE OF 12EA
(D4,15,14&18)
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
Holiday Catering
from Rosa’s Deli!
Taste of the Wild
30lb - Any Flavor
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN-
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10
Many choices of Pasta dishes,
Meatballs, Sausage & Peppers,
Chicken, Party Subs, Cold cut
platters and so much more. Visit our
website for even more selections.
Canidae
Visit our website at rosasdeli.com
Lamb & Rice 30lb
WITH COUPON, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. CAN- Rosa’s Italian Deli, LLC
NOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. EXPIRES 11/30/10 imported and domestic foods
party platters • hot and cold subs to go
Open Monday-Saturday 830-6 closed Sunday•
Tel: 265-1487 • 57 North Colony Street,
Wallingford, CT 06492 •