Mayor’s Corner - Wallingford
Dear Friends:
As we go from July into August, time seems to speed up. Summer months evaporate as quickly as water on a sidewalk under a hot summer sun. If we count the calendar days, there are 31 days in July and 31 days in August. That is a total of 62 days. Why is it that, at least in my experience, two or three days after the 4th of July, it is the beginning of August? Then, two or three days after the 4th of July, it is the beginning of August. Then, two or three days later, four at the most, we are celebrating Labor Day. It must be that we are somehow being tested.
Have you ever heard the following words on the radio, “for the next 60 seconds, we will be conducting a test of the emergency broadcasting system?” The announcement is followed by an unpleasant tone. Have you ever timed the tone? It never lasts for 60 seconds according to a report I read. It usually lasts for, at the most, 30 seconds. So if something that is meant to provide safety and well being never meets the 60 second standard, then it probably is too much to ask to have summer achieve the 60 standard. Oh, the mysteries that abound. Have a great August anyway.
Sincerely,
William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events
YO HO HO and A . . PIRATE SUMMER PARTY!
Friday, August 24 10:30 – 1:30 “Come eat hearty and party with the pirates!”
Our “Caribbean Pirate” summer party will feature musical entertainment by John Banker and Island Rhythm, a delicious buffet meal, treasure chests, games, raffles and a costume contest! Wear your best pirate outfit (costumes optional) and compete for prizes! The meal includes BBQ chicken, BBQ pulled pork with rolls, coleslaw, roasted potatoes, baked beans, corn bread muffins, peach cobbler and pirate punch! Tickets, which are on sale through August 17 (or until sold out), are $6.00 for members and $10.00 for guests. Members may purchase tickets beginning August 1. Tickets for guests may be purchased beginning August 8.
HEALTHY COOKING – ONE POT MEALS on Thursday, August 2, 11:00 a.m.
Licensed nutritionist Gerri Zatcoff will present a lecture and demonstration entitled “Healthy Cooking and Eating / One Pot Meals” on August 2, at 11:00 a.m. The program is sponsored by Community Action Agency.
COPING WITH HEARING LOSS on Thursday, August 9, 10:00 a.m.
A workshop to learn more about hearing loss and coping with hearing loss will be held August 9, at 10:00 a.m. The presentation will include coping strategies, communication tips for the hearing and the hard of hearing person, and a “show and tell” about the different types of assistive listening devices available – including the new captioned telephone. Our speakers will be Mike Gravitz, founder of the Southwestern CT Chapter of SHHH (Self Help for Hard of Hearing People) and other members of the HLAA team.
Please call 265-7753 to register to attend.
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
A new community service project begins this month! We hope to collect items for care packages for our troops in Iraq, Afghanistan and South Korea. Needed items include: hygiene products for men and women; tube socks (black, green or brown); popcorn, nuts, hard candy, oatmeal, cookies, canned fruit; baby wipes, dry wipes; paperback books, CD’s, small games. Bring your donations to our collection box in the lobby. The Stanley Budleski VFW Post 9965 will mail the care packages to our troops. Thanks to Barbara Whitcher for coordinating this project.
AARP TAX-AIDE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The Connecticut AARP Tax-Aide Program (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) is seeking volunteers to provide one-on-one help in the preparation of income tax returns. Tax Counseling for the Elderly is a free, confidential service. Computer literate volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome (Volunteer as a Counselor and/or Leadership Coordinator!). Interested persons should e-mail ctvoltaxaide@juno.com. Please provide your name, address, and telephone number. Training will begin in December.
SOCIAL SERVICES
SAGE ADVICE FROM SOCIAL SECURITY
Question:
When I showed my Social Security card as a form of identification recently, I was told I shouldn’t be carrying it around in my purse. Is that true?
Answer:
We encourage you to keep your Social Security card at home in a safe place. Do not carry it with you unless you are taking it to someone requesting to see it. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America, and the best way to avoid becoming a victim is to safeguard your card and number.
BRIDGING YOUR PRESCRIPTION GAP
If your Medicare Drug Plan has a coverage gap, here are some ways you can avoid or delay entering the gap and continue to save money on drug costs while in the gap.
Explore National and Community-Based Charitable Programs that might offer assistance (such as the National Patient Advocate Foundation or the National Organization for Rare Disorders.)
Look into Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs that may be offered by the manufacturers of the drugs you take. Many of the major drug manufacturers are offering assistance programs for people enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D.)
Social Worker Marie Cunha will explore answers if you are now in the coverage gap (call 265-7753). A flyer with helpful tips to bridge the coverage gap is available at the Senior Center Front Desk; or phone to request a copy; or type www.medicare.gov on the web and look for CMS Publication No. 11213.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Special guest speaker, Janet Meiselman, Clinical Psychologist, will talk about the emotional impact low vision has on people’s everyday lives. Please join us Friday, August 17, at 10:15 a.m., and register by calling 265-7753.
*RECIPE FOR SATISFACTION
1 Elderly or Disabled Person
1 Friendly Person (any age)
1 Tablespoon of Sharing
1 Cup Faith ¼ Stick of Humor
1 Cup Concern 1 Dash of Spunk
Mix together thoroughly one to two hours a week. Bake for 6 months to one year commitment. Garnish appropriately with love and friendship will bubble over into a valued relationship.
No preservatives needed.
Recipe sound delicious? If so, call Marie Cunha, Social Worker, at 265-7753, to ask how you can make this recipe your own by volunteering for Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers.
(*borrowed from IVCG Connections newsletter)
INTERFAITH VOLUNTEER SOCIAL on Thursday, September 20, 10:30 a.m.
Ever wonder who your fellow Interfaith Volunteers are? Do you have a rewarding volunteer experience you want to share? Please join Barbara Barlok, Executive Director of Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers, and Marie Cunha, WSC Social Worker, on Thursday, September 20, at 10:30 a.m. Refreshments and camaraderie will be in abundance! Register at 265-7753 and prepare to smile and socialize.
VOLUNTEER FOR A SPECIAL PROGRAM
The Daily Activities for Independence (DA) is in need of volunteers. If you are interested in making a difference, volunteer for this special program by calling Victoria Thulin, DAI Program Coordinator at the Senior Center, 265-7753.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
A number of “How Do I Get There?” Transportation Guides are still available. Stop by the Senior Center Front Desk, or call and request a copy. It is full of timely transportation information. (Compiled & printed by Healthy Wallingford Elderly Task Force.)
FALL EXERCISE AND FITNESS FUN . . .
is around the corner but many of our classes may involve vigorous or strenuous exercise. Before participating, please consider your current condition and physical limitations and consult your physician. If you have any questions about the activities of a class, the instructor or staff can answer them for you.
SENIORNET COMPUTER LEARNING CENTER COMPUTER CLASS REGISTRATION
Thursday, August 16, 11:00 to 1:00
The next registration session for computer classes will be held August 16, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Our computer classes provide a wonderful way to exercise your brain and learn something new!
Mayor’s Corner - Meriden
Dear Friends:
I hope you are enjoying your summer and finding some time to relax and enjoy the warm weather. Thank you to the Parks Department and all the performers who made for a special July 4th celebration at Hubbard Park. Amy, Bria, Blake and I ordered some pizzas and enjoyed the beautiful park, the uplifting music and fantastic fireworks display. It is nights like these that remind me of how fortunate we are that Walter Hubbard thought so much of his hometown that he left us one of our greatest assets, Hubbard Park. His generosity and compassion will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
As Independence Day has come and passed, I am also reminded of our soldiers who are courageously fighting the war on terror. Recently we welcomed Daniel Bowen home! Our prayers, thoughts, and thanks are with all our soldiers! We live in a free land where we can follow our dreams because our armed service men and women have given so much. I thank you! Regardless of how we feel about the war, as Americans we must stay united in our support of our troops, the greatest, most courageous and compassionate soldiers in the world.
In closing, congratulations to our State Championship South Meriden Twelve-Year Old Team. Meriden applauds the players and coaches for a job well done. I also would like to congratulate the Meriden Youth Travel Baseball League on being selected to host the State Championships and the North Atlantic Sandy Koufax (14U) Regional Tournament. It is an honor for our City to be selected as a host site and a credit to the league organizers and caliber of our baseball fields at Ceppa, Maloney, Platt, and American Legion. We have also hosted numerous girls’ softball tournaments at our Thorpe Avenue Complex. When these teams visit Meriden for a tournament play, they stay at our hotels, eat at our local restaurants, and shop at our stores. Let us continue to work together to build a Meriden that we can all be proud of.
Thanks for all your support!
Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni - Mayor
CITY OF MERIDEN AUGUST EVENTS
SUMMER SOUNDS CONCERTS
The Summer Sounds Concert Series concludes with three exciting performances for the month of August(all shows take place at Hubbard Park’s James J. Barry bandshell). On Wednesday, August 8th, the patriotic sounds of the 102nd Army Band can be heard from 7:00-8:30PM. On Wednesday, August 15th, the beach melodies of Island Rhythm can be heard from 7:00-8:30PM. The Eddie Forman Orchestra brings polka to the stage on Wednesday, August 22nd from 6:30-8:00PM. All concerts are free to the public with refreshments available for purchase.
MERIDEN NATURE CAMP
Registration is currently underway at the Parks & Recreation office for the three remaining Meriden Nature Camp sessions in August. The one-week programs introduce children to such outdoor skills as canoeing, archery, caving, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, & wildlife identification through a mixture of activities & trips.
PUBLIC SWIM
The 2007 Outdoor Public Swim Program at the Hubbard Park pool will take place through Friday, August 24th. The pool’s daily hours of operation are from 12-6:30PM(open swim). Adult swim(6:45-7:45PM) will take place through Friday, August 10th. Updates on the program’s hours of operation can be found by calling the Recreation Activity Line at 630-4279.
All interested participants must possess a valid 2007 pool pass. Available for purchase at the Parks & Recreation office, it costs $5.00 for adults & $1.00 for children ages 17 & under. Potential recipients must come to the office in-person and bring proof of Meriden residency to receive a pass.
SUMMER FUN RUNS PROGRAM
The 2007 Summer Fun Runs Program will be held on Wednesday nights at the Platt High School track through August 22nd. The free runs will get underway at 6:30PM and feature a ¾ mile race for children and a 5K race for adults.
LIONS CLUB WATERPARK
The Meriden Lions Club Waterpark, located on the corner of Park Avenue & Franklin Street(City Park), has the following hours of operation(weather permitting):
Mondays-Saturdays 12:00PM-4:00PM
Sundays 2:00PM-5:00PM
MERIDEN SKATEPARK
The Meriden Skatepark, located on the corner of Coe Avenue & Hamilton Street, has the following hours of operation(weather permitting):
School Days 2:00PM-Dusk
Non-School Days 11:00AM-Dusk
CASTLE CRAIG
The vehicle access road to Castle Craig is open daily from 10:00AM-4:45PM, weather permitting. The entrance to the road is located under the eastern Interstate 691 overpass in Hubbard Park.
SUMMER SOUNDS CONCERT SERIES AT HUBBARD PARK REMAINING SHOWS
Wednesday, August 8th 102nd Army Band(patriotic)
(7:00-8:30PM)
Wednesday, August 15th Island Rhythm(beach music)
(7:00-8:30PM)
Wednesday, August 22nd Eddie Forman Orchestra(polka)
(6:30-8:00PM) Presented by Logan Steel
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE. PLEASE BRING CHAIRS OR BLANKETS
The Wallingford Park and Recreation Family Day Saturday September 8, 2007
This event is designed for you to spend the day with your family at Community Lake Park. Family Day is co-sponsored by the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department and the Wallingford Youth and Social Services Department. The day will be filled with canoe rides, walks down the Linear Trail, moonwalks, entertainment and food prepared by the Wallingford Family Day begins at 11:00a.m.and ends at 3:00p.m. For more information call 294-2120 or 294-2175
Wallingford Park and Rec. Twilight Tunes
Wednesday evenings on the Wallingford Parade Grounds Sponsored by Wallingford Parks & Recreation & Stop and Shop7:00-8:30:p.mwednesday
Wednesday august 8
“The sounds of Frank” Take a nostalgic walk down memory lane listening to all your favorites of Frank Sinatra. “Summer Wind” “The Way You Look Tonight,” “Fly Me To The Moon”, and of course “New York New York” are some of the signature Frank Sinatra songs you will hear. The Sounds of Frank quartet features: Vocal, Piano, Upright Bass and Drums.
Wednesday August 15, “The Blue Agaves” Rock music, rang-ing from the Beatles to Pat Benetar. You will be greeted with the powerful, yet, soulful vocals of Carissa, the guitar meets the vocals of Johnny, the rhythmic motley of Jim, the lead guitar expressions of Vinny and the basest bass tones of Egan. The Blue Agaves appeal to a wide range of audiences and are perfect for an August evening.
Wednesday August 22, “Memphis soul spectacular” Is a Jumpin’ Blues and R&B Band! The band is made up of former members of these nationally known touring acts: Eight to the Bar, The House Rockers, The Banditos, as well as others. Memphis Soul Spectacular is a band of merry blues men that are there to entertain, make you laugh and dance.
Fall Programs from the Wallingford Park and Recreation Department
Look for our Fall Program guide coming to your mailbox soon. The information will all be at our website for your reading pleasure. For more information call 294-2120 or 294-2175
MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER NEWS & EVENTS
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 60 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
The Senior Center is continuing to take applications from Meriden residents for the Rent Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2006 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. To be eligible, applicants must have been 65 or over as of December 31, 2006 or be enrolled in Social Security Disability. Proof of 2006 income, rent and utilities must be presented at the time the application is filed. Income limits are $28,800 for a single person and $35,300 for a married couple. Applications are completed daily at the Senior Center from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM until September 17. For further information or any questions about the rules and requirements of the Rent Relief Program call the Senior Center at 237-0066.
Bankers Life and Casualty Insurance Agent Michael Dansereau will speak before lunch in Willene’s Place at 11:15 on Wednesday, August 15. He will give an overview of their Medicare products and distribute a free copy of their booklet “The High Cost of Health Care in 2007: Understanding Medicare and Managing Your Medical Expenses”. This program is informational only and no insurance products will be sold at this program.
The Connecticut AARP Tax-Aide program is seeking volunteers to provide one-on-one help in the preparation of income tax returns. Computer literate volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. Tax Counseling for the Elderly is a free, confidential service run by volunteers who prepare Federal and Connecticut tax returns. The service is offered by appointment on the mezzanine level of the Senior Center on Wednesdays from February to April each year. If you would like to join the Meriden AARP Income Tax Team to help in this rewarding volunteer work, please call Meriden Tax-Aide Coordinator Frank Spinelli at 237-6978.
Sign-ups are now being accepted for the next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program at the Senior Center on Wednesday, November 7 and Friday, November 9 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Class participants will learn defensive driving techniques, new traffic laws and much more in this 8-hour course. Successful completion of the classroom course also entitles you to a discount on your automobile insurance premiums. The course fee is $10 and reservations can be made in the front office or by calling the Senior Center at 237-0066.
For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby. Enjoy the rest of the summer and remember that the Senior Center is air conditioned for your comfort and safety during the hot summer weather!
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director
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