Wallingford and Meriden Community Events and News October 2007

Sponsored by the Trail of Terror

Welcome to The People's Press - Your Town, Your News, Your Views! We are the #1 Single Copy Newspaper for Wallingford and Meriden Connecticut Town News and Events SWCD Annual Meeting: Wingmasters The Southwest Conservation District will sponsor a special event for the 61st Annual Meeting on Monday, October 29th at 7:00 at the Milford City Hall (City Hall Chambers) on 110 River Street. Take I 91 south to I 95 south and exit 39A. After a brief meeting and special award presentations, the special live birds of prey program will follow. The program will feature Julie Collier and live ‘North American Birds of Prey’ from Wingmasters of Springfield, Mass. The program will feature the following raptors: Golden Eagle ‘Lakota’, American Kestrel ‘Massachusett’, Red Tailed Hawk ‘Aquinnah’, Northern Saw-Whet Owl ‘Chippewa’, Barred Owl ‘Moodus’, Great Horned Owl ‘Osamequin’, Eastern Screech Owl ‘Sachem’. Wingmasters focus is to increase public awareness of North American Birds of Prey. Julie Ann Collier and Jim Parks are licensed raptor rehabilitators based in Springfield Mass. They provide a home for these raptors which cannot be released into the wild for various reasons and use them for educational programs throughout New England. In addition you will be able to view Julie’s artwork and Jim’s photos of these magnificent birds, samples of which can be viewed on the Wingmasters website: www.wingmasters.net For more information, please call Ellie Tessmer at SWCD 269-7509x710 or swcd43emt@sbcglobal.net. The meeting is open to the public and especially families. Meriden Movers Community Group Walk Schedule The Meriden Movers community walking program is happy to announce a schedule of group walks. Tuesdays, 10:00-11:00am October 16, 23, 30 Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm October 11, 18, 25, November 1 All walks will be held at the Quinnipiac River walking trail (Red Bridge trail) at the corner of Oregon Road and Route 70. Meet at the Red Bridge. Wear comfortable clothing (dress for the weather); bring a water bottle and of course, your pedometer! Walks are done at your own pace. In the case of bad weather (rain or snow) the walk will be cancelled. More locations will be added in the spring. It is recommended that adults participate in at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 or more days a week. Meriden Movers encourages residents to walk in addition to the days scheduled above. For more information on the Meriden Movers walking program, please call Lea Crown, Health Educator, at 630-4238. Saint Joseph School Awards Scholarships Saint Joseph School awarded 13 Whalon Scholarship's on July 19, 2007 at abreakfast held at the Four Points by Sheraton in Meriden. The guest speakerwas Sister Mary McCarthy, RSM, principal of Mercy High School in Middletown. The recipients (Marc A. Bilodeau, Class of 2003; Jesse A. Bischoff, Class of2003; Miriam R. Bischoff, Class of 2002; Adam P. Cyr, Class of 2002; JessicaK. Dalton, Class of 2002; Amanda Y. Gonzalez, Class of 2001; Lisa M. Horton,Class of 2003; Stephanie L. Ivers, Class of 2000; Emily R. James, Class of2002; Linda Riter, Class of 1999; Lauren A. Smilovich, Class of 2003;Matthew J. Stagon, Class of 2003; Fiona M. Stewart, Class of 2003) aregraduates of Saint Joseph School who are continuing their education at theundergraduate or graduate level. The Whalon Scholarship is available tograduates of Saint Joseph School who are continuing their education at theundergraduate or graduate school level. Marion and Dorothy Whalon weregraduates of Saint Joseph School, and lifelong parishioners of Saint JosephParish. They greatly appreciated the education they received at SaintJoseph School and, through a bequest, endowed this scholarship inacknowledgment of the efforts of the Sisters of Mercy. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT MIDSTATE MEDICAL CENTER Submitted by Diamond Belejack The Volunteer Department at Midstate is looking to increase volunteer staffing in several key areas of the medical center. The Tremaine Resource Center is expanding and in need of additional volunteers who assist the public needing to access health information. Basic computer skills are needed. There is also high demand for volunteers in our Emergency Department reception area. These volunteers provide customer service to all visitors and patients by providing friendly visits and ensuring individuals are comfortable and kept well-informed during their stay. If you enjoy meeting and greeting the public, and have excellent customer service skills, please contact Diamond Belejack, Manager of Volunteer Services at 694-8572 or e-mail dbeleja@midstatemedical.org. Wanted: WLT Board Members The Wallingford Land Trust is looking for a Wallingford resident interested in the outdoors, walking, hiking, birding, building and maintaining trails. The WLT board meets 7:00 pm on the 3rd Thursday at the Southwest Conservation District. If interested please contact WLT President Joe Palazzi at 284-0116. For more information on the Land Trust, please check out the website at www.wallingfordlandtrust.org. SUPPORT OUR TROOPS The Stanley Budleske V.F.W. Post 9965 and the Ladies Auxiliary, Yalesville has mailed 181 care packages to our troops in Iraq, Afganistan and South Korea. The Post is running short on items for this program. We are looking for donations of hygiene products both for men and women. Tube socks (black, green, brown), popcorn, any kind of nuts, baby wipes, dry wipes, paper back books, CD’s, small games, hard candy, oatmeal, cookies, can fruit. All items can be left off at the Post Canteen everyday from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 424 Church St (Rt. 68) across from the Yalesville school. Also items may be left at the Yalesville Post Office. Thank you in advance, Rod Fulton (203) 269-9851 MS Support Group Platt High School 220 Coe Ave. Meriden, Conn. The Meriden MS Support Group meets at the Meriden Public Library located at 105 Miller St., in Meriden, Conn., at 6:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month from June to August. There are more than 6,000 Connecticut residents diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), an oftentimes debilitating disease affecting the central nervous system. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Connecticut Chapter offers more than 20 support groups throughout Hartford, Tolland, Windham, New London, Middlesex and New Haven counties. These groups bring together people who share a common life experience as it relates to MS and its effects. For more information, please contact Allison at (203) 230-8672. For more information on multiple sclerosis and the many ways you can help make a difference, please visit www.ctfightsMS.org or call the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Connecticut Chapter at (800) Fight-MS. Highland Elementary School PTO Craft Fair The Highland Elementary School PTO (200 Highland Avenue, Wallingford, CT) will hold its 24th annual Craft Fair on Saturday, December 1, 2007 from 9 AM to 3 PM at the school. Featured crafts include jewelry, wreaths, holiday ornaments, woodworking, original art work, animal treats, wall hangings, scarves, bags, doll clothes, books, glassware, florals, clothing, jams, jellies, candy, gourmet mixes, quilts, matted photographs, cards, etc. Refreshments will be available including homemade apple crisp. For more information contact Carole Eager at (203) 314-3413 or Highland School at (203) 949-0121. Crafters Wanted November 17, 2007 9 am to 2 pm Wallingford Park & Rec Department Sponsored by: Kinder Garden Learning Center Call 269-1938 for an application & information YOUR GIFT OF TIME . . . . . Your gift of time is a precious commodity to the frail elderly. Sharing your time, even if it’s only one hour here and there with a friendly visit, escort to a medical appointment or grocery shopping is mutually rewarding for the recipient of service and the volunteer. Please call Marie Cunha at the Wallingford Senior Center and say you want to be an Interfaith Volunteer Care Giver. The next time our telephone rings with a request from someone in desperate need of a ride to a medical appointment, we will be able to tell the caller we know a caring volunteer who can help. Cost of gasoline can be reimbursed. Waiting for your call at 265-7753. CRAFTERS WANTED CHRISTMAS ON THE HILL HOLIDAY BAZAAR NOVEMBER 17, 2007 9 AM TO 3 PM HOLY ANGELS PARISH CENTER 585 MAIN STREET SOUTH MERIDEN, CT CALL (203) 237-8697 FOR AN APPLICATION AND INFORMATION. Sponsor a Pet at M H S Trying to think of a way to help the animals at the Meriden Humane Society? If you can't adopt an animal or don't have the time to volunteer, how about sponsoring a pet. For as little as $20.00 a month, you can sponsor one of the Meriden Humane Society's homeless pets. With your donation you will receive a letter, along with a picture of the animal you have chosen to sponsor. It can be for a dog or a cat. Why not sponsor one of our special needs animals, like Bandit, Rayne, Tigger or Higgins, today! Please contact the shelter at meridensociety@sbcglobal.net or call us at 238-3650, so we can send you a sponsorship form and answer any questions. We have many kittens still available for adoption. Most of the mother's of these kittens are only a year old themselves and are some of the sweetest, most lovable cats in our shelter. Please come visit with them also, before making a decision. As always we appreciate any monetary donations or any of the items on our wish list, which can be viewed at www.meridenhs.petfinder.org. Please visit us online or at the shelter at 311 Murdock Ave. See you at the shelter! Save the date! 6th Annual ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! Celebration - October 13, 2007 On Saturday, October 13, 2007 the Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council, with generous support of Colonial Flooring Plus and Uniform Source, will host the 6th annual ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! Community event for girls ages 9 to 14 and their mothers/caregivers. The event will take place from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm at Washington Middle School, 1225 North Broad Street, Meriden. Over 900 girls and their caregivers have benefited from this exciting event that offers workshops on self-esteem, decision-making and assertiveness skills. In addition, a health and wellness fair is presented with a wide range of community organizations providing information to the girls and their caregivers. Karen S. Hinds who is the author of 4 books, a motivational speaker, trainer and President of Workplace Success Group will conduct a mother/daughter workshop “From Confident Girl to Empowered Woman.” Entertainment for Soy Unica! Soy Latina! is provided by Mikata, a dance and drumming group with powerful rhythmic music and dance that will showcase different cultures of Nigeria, Ghana, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the U. S. Also performing will be two Meriden based groups Da New Generation and Xxtreme Impact. A new level of premier sponsorships has been created with support from Cox Communications, Rushford Center Inc., and James H. Napier Foundation Additional community support has come from the Meriden Public Library, and MidState Medical Center. The Meriden and Wallingford Substance Abuse Council provides community-based education and information on the effects of substance abuse, alcohol, tobacco, gambling, and other addictive behavior. For more information or to register, please call Christelle Aubé at MAWSAC at 203-294-3591. This is a free event for girls ages 9 to 14 and their mothers and or caregivers. IT’S TIME TO JOIN A SKI CLUB Ever think of joining a ski club? It’s a chance to meet new people, have folks to ski with, be a member of an organization that has great buying power, become a better skier and best of all save a bundle on your skiing costs. The Meriden Ski Club offers this and a lot more to skiers and boarders in the area. The Meriden Ski Club has been going strong for the last 46 years. It organizes ski trips, for a day, weekend or week. We go to areas in New England, western U.S., Canada and Europe. You just have to become a member to partake in these trips. We offer 6 to 8 day bus trips, Weekend trips to areas in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire or New York. This year our week trips will be going to Breckinridge Colorado and Andorra, Spain. All you have to do, as a member is sign-up and pay. The ski club does everything else. We offer skiing and snowboard lessons to our members and their children. The club has on hand ASIA trained ski instructors who meet weekly with those who wish to improve their skiing. The club also has a group of members who are involved in ski racing. They are always looking for members to join them on the Meriden Race Team and participate in club racing, sponsored by the Connecticut Ski Council. They race Monday nights at Southington Ski area. Our team has finished near the top, the last few years and we are looking for new members to come and race with us. The club also has several social events during the year. We hold golf tournaments; have a summer picnic, Christmas party and a dinner dance to close out the year. We also have monthly member’s nights where refreshments are served and the members have a chance to mingle. With the cost of skiing rising over the past several years the Meriden Ski Club, through the Connecticut Ski Council, had developed ways to save an enormous amount, 20% to 40% on the cost of lift tickets alone. We offer these savings for over 100 different skiing days at various areas. Our Sat./Sun. bus trips save on ticket costs and transportation. We offer a typical Sunday trip to Okemo for $ 40. If you drove your car up and brought a ticket at Okemo it would cost over $100. Several area ski shops offer our members substational savings on equipment. On October 25, 2007 at 7:00 we will be holding an open house at the A.O.H. hall, 71 Melville Ave., South Meriden. It’s a good time to drop in and see what the Meriden Ski Club can offer you. We will have door prizes and refreshments. Representatives from several New England ski areas will be present, ski shops will have displays and a ski tuning demonstration will take place. We look forward to meeting old and new members on this night so stop by and say “Hi”. The Senior Buddy Readers Program Seeks Volunteers The Senior Buddy Readers intergenerational mentoring & literacy program is currently seeking volunteers for the 2006-2007 school year. Active retirees are needed to help first and second grade students improve their reading skills. The program runs from October through the end of May and takes place in six of Meriden’s elementary schools: Ben Franklin, Casimir Pulaski, Hanover, Israel Putnam, Nathan Hale and Thomas Hooker schools. Anyone interested in sharing one hour a week mentoring a child is invited to call the office of Meriden Children First Initiative at 630-3566. Make a difference in the life of a child…become a Senior Buddy Reader volunteer! (The Senior Buddy Readers program is sponsored by nonprofit Meriden Children First Initiative and is supported financially through foundation grants and local business donations.) PTLI - (Parent Leadership Training Institute) Meriden, although small, is full of resources. PLTI (Parent Leadership Training Institute) is one of those community resources that enable, parents, grandparents, teachers and anyone who cares about Meriden’s children, to become leaders and empower themselves in making changes. Graduates of this program have contributed to the Meriden community in vital ways… Cathy Ambercrombie has been elected as State Representative, Hilda Santiago was elected to the Meriden City Council and Barbara Sokol ran and won the elected seat on the Meriden Board of Education. Cathy Lewis was one of the leaders in creating the “Senior Buddy Readers” literacy program linking area senior volunteers with at-risk elementary students. Dawn Reynolds was the genius who started the work to renovate and relocate the Hubbard Park playground to make it safer and accessible to people with disabilities. Many of the graduates of PLTI have had a hand in various Children First Initiatives such as, expanding Meriden’s school breakfast program, increasing the availability of full-day kindergarten and fighting to protect class size and school enrichment programs. If you care about the quality of heath, education, and safety of Meriden children, PLTI will teach you the tools of democracy and advocacy and get you started in a life changing journey. New sessions begin in January and offers dinner, transportation and childcare at no cost to you. Parents meet once a week for 20 weeks in Meriden. Join now by applying online at www.meridenchildrenfirst.org or for an application contact us at 203-630-3566, stop by Meriden Children First at the Meriden Public Library (105 Miller Street) Our Lady of Fatima - Craft Fair Nov. 10 A craft fair will take place on Saturday, November 10, from 9am to 3pm in the parish hall of Our Lady of Fatima Church, 382 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville. Over 20 tables of local crafters. Raffles, bake sale, lunch kitchen will be available. Hall is handicapped accessible. The public is invited. Colonial Christmas Fair Saturday, November 3, 2007 Relax for the holidays. Center Congregational Church, Meriden has been working hard to make life easier for you this holiday season. Come and shop for your decorations, gifts, and baked goods. We have created beautiful hand made crafts to decorate your home. We have been sewing, gluing, twisting, stuffing and painting all summer to fill the tables of our next fair, coming soon. We will have home made baked goods and there will be apple pies baking all day, just for you. Have a sample, or take home a whole pie for your freezer, to heat and serve on your special holiday. Your company will think you worked in the kitchen all day. You will find handmade items, including Christmas ornaments, house decorations, and special gifts as you wander around to the different booths. Join us for a mid-morning snack of coffee and sticky buns, or relax and enjoy a cup of our home made soup with a sandwich for lunch. Then take the “Cookie Walk” where you can gather up your favorite cookies to fill your freezer and make the holidays deliciously easy. We will have pecans fresh from Georgia and cheese direct from Vermont, it doesn’t get any fresher than this. With giant specialty theme baskets, a Tea Cup Auction, Craft tables, and a Tag Sale which includes baby clothes, we have something for everyone. There will also be unique activities to occupy the children, and our book sale is always an event. Proceeds from the Fair will be used to help maintain our historic church building, contribute to activities for our youth, and to further local and worldwide ministries. Come join us for this fun day. Center Congregational Church is located at the corner of Broad and East Main Streets, Meriden, park in the back and come in the side door. The Fair will be open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on November 3, 2007. CRAFTERS WANTED CHRISTMAS ON THE HILL HOLIDAY BAZAAR, November 17, 2007, 9 am to 3pm; Holy Angels Parish Center, 585 Main Street, South Meriden, Ct. Call (203) 237-8697 for an application and information. After School Pick-Up from Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club The Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club is now taking applications for after school 2007-2008 Van Pick-Up from Dag, Moran, Parker Farms, and Yalesville Elementary School. Call for information: Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club, (203) 269-7535. or look on www.bgcawallingford.org. Flu Clinics in Wallingford Visiting Nurse Association of Wallingford; 135 North Plains Industrial Rd.; Wallingford, CT. Flu Clinics – October 2007: October 10 – 10am – 1pm; October 10 – 5pm – 7pm; October 15 – 1pm – 4pm; October 24 – 10am – 1pm; October 24 – 5pm – 7pm; October 29 – 10am – 1pm. Medicare & most Insurances accepted. Cash: $35.00. Please call the VNA for an appointment (203) 269-1475. MxCC Scholarship 5K Run & Walk --- New Course! Part of Homecoming 2007; Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007, 5K RUN & walk – 10 am, Middlesex Community College; 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown, Ct. Pre-register: $15 by 10/20/07. Register after Oct. 20: $17 incl. day of race. Free T-Shirts: Runner premiums. Prizes awarded to overall champions (M & F), faculty/staff winners (M & F), and top three men and women in each division: 19 and under; 20 – 29; 30 – 39 40 – 49; 50 – 50 60 – 69; 70 and older. Sponsored by the MxCC Foundation, Inc. and the Aetna Foundation to benefit student scholarships at Middlesex Community College. Please make checks payable to the MxCC Foundation. Questions? Contact Ract Co-directors Trenton Wright @ 860-343-5708 or Yvonne Rubin @ 860-343-5881. More info: www.mxccfoundation.org/pages/events.html All Aboard! Meriden Kiwanis presents “Kruisin’ with Kiwanis”. Take a fun-filled journey with us as we navigate through our highly entertaining variety show and raise money for the children of our community. Celebrating 56 Years of Kapers. 2006 Chairperson: Maureen Bilger. Director: Frand P. Jackson. Choreographer: Cheryl Z. O’Connor. November 9 & 10, 2007. New Earlier Time: 7:30 PM at Maloney High School. Adults: $15.00 donation. Children under 12 $5.00 donation. All proceeds directly support Kiwanis sponsored community initiatives. Crafters Wanted: November 18, 2007 9 am to 2 pm. Cheshire Park and Rec Department. Sponsored by: Kinder Garden Learning Center. Call 269-1938 for an application & information. Fishbein 4 Mile Community Road Race, Wallingford. 30th Annual Wallingford Community Road Race. 3 Races Saturday, October 13, 2007 9:00AM Sharp. Expert Timing by Platt Systems. USATF Certified Course #CT05009-PH. Online Entry, Course Maps @ www.fishbein4mile.com Sponsored by: Wallingford Public Celebrations Committee; The Wallingford Foundation-Charitable Arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club; Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department; Choate Rosemary Hall; Wallingford Education Association; Stop & Shop of Wallingford. The Fishbein 4-Mile is dedicated to the memory of Johanna Manfreda Fishbein, who for 20 years was the force behind its success. Fishbein 4-Miler. 9:00AM Sharp. Entry Fee: Before 0/28: $15.00; After: $20.00. Categories for men and women: 12& Under, 13-15, 16-17, 18-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 and over. Family rate 4 or more members $50. Check in: 7:00 am – 8:45 am at headquarters tent located 75 yards North of Christian and North Elm St. Same course as 2006, flatter finish…Course is certified with mile splits at each of the mile markers. Changing rooms/showers in Johnson Athletic Center (WinterEx) (Bring your own towel). Refreshments for Runners: Fresh fruits, juices, yogurt, bagels, cream cheese, and more. ¼ Mile Little Kids Fun Run. 10:15 M Sharp. Back for 2007, the fun run is recommended for children 3rd grade and under who would like to run in a race. There is no entry fee! The length of the race is about a ¼ mile in length which starts and finishes at the Fishbein 4 mile finish line. I Come cheer on your child and show them the joys of running. Parents are also welcome to run/walk with their kids. No dogs; they might scare some of our children.. Ribbons will be given to all children who participate. No places or race times will be given. This one is just for fun School Relay. 10:30AM Sharp. 4 x 1 Mile School Relay. Free to all Wallingford Elementary & Middle School Children. Pre-Registration Only. You must pre-register at your school; please see your Phys. Ed. Teachers. Teams must have a minimum of 4 members, must pre-register and must bring own batons. Start and hand off area will be at the finish line of the Fishbein 4 miler. Each participant runs 1 mile. What's happening.........."AT THE AUGUSTA" The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center that is!! 175 East Main Street, Meriden The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center (ACCC) is looking for volunteers to organize special events, instruct classes, be doscents of the Center, and many other tasks. If you are interested in volunteering for the ACCC please contact Staci at 230-639-2856. The ACCC will be hosting "Tricks, Treats, and ARTS" on Sunday, October 28th from 2pm to 4pm and is looking for Pumpkin Carvers and Scarecrow makers. We want to bring the art of Halloween to Meriden's Arts and Cultural Center. There will be a prize for the most creative & artistic costume awarded. Event is for ages 4 to 6, and there will be a costume parade, treats for everyone, Halloween Tattoos, and so much more....... Holiday display will begin at the Center on November 10th and continue through Dec. 5th. Trees, wreaths, and centerpieces are needed for the display. If interested in decorating an item for the Silent Auction it must be dropped off either Nov. 8th or 9th. Display will be open daily from Nov. 29th through Dec. 4th 11am to 8pm. Call for times on all other days. Show your support for the Arts Community and come out and enjoy the display and place a bid for your favorite tree or other Holiday item. All non-profits participating in display will receive half of the proceeds that there item brings in. What a great gift for the Holidays, all items can be picked up on Dec. 5th if your bid is the winner. In order to have display open we will need volunteers to be on hand at the display, if interested in being a part of this volunteer group give us a call at 203-639-2856 or e-mail us at accc@ci.meriden.ct.us. We are also looking for instructors to do Holiday themed classes, such as floral arrangements, tree decorating, meal presentation, and many more......... We need you to get involved!!! The ACCC is a wonderful place to experience Arts & Culture at its best. Our volunteer guild only makes us stronger in what we can be to this community, so get involved in anyway you can and support all that can be good about The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center!! Check out our website at www.curtisculturalcenter.org to see all the upcoming events. We want everyone to know and to be involved in what is happening.........."AT THE AUGUSTA" "Our Lady of Fatima's 90th Anniversary" S.S. Peter and Paul Parish invites you to celebrate "Our Lady of Fatima's 90th Anniversary" with a Public Square Rosary Rally which will take place on October 13, 2007 at 12:00 p.m. Sharp! until 2:00 pm at the Johanna Manfreda Fishbein Gazebo located in the center of Wallingford at the railroad station. Prayers and Rosaries will be recited all around the United States in "Honor of Our Lady of Fatima's" message! If unable to stand for 2 hours please bring a folding chair. Rosary will take place rain or shine! Questions please contact Lucienne Boucher Rally Captain (203) 265-3006 or Lori Holda lah446@yahoo.com Tradition Golf Club 9 Hole Ladies LeagueTournament Results Congratulations to Chet Mrazik and Traci Canavan - winning first gross with a 42 at the Ladies 9-Hole Member Guest Tournament on September 12, 2007. Thea Gambardella and Nancy McNeil came in 2nd gross with a 43, Coralee Reichelt & Gert Balamaci placed 3rd with a 45, Lois DePalma & Laura DePalma placed 4th with a 46 and Gerry Moran & Carol Welch placed 5th gross with a 48. 1st Net with a 31 went to Jaon Ciasulli & Lori Panzo, 2nd net with a 32 to Jean Cerino & Kara Cerino, Sandy Duffy & Maria Fisher-Proulx placed 3rd with a 32 (matching cards), Barbara Spaltro & Robin Barbagallo placed 4th net with a 33, and Lois Jacob & Marlene Gorman, 5th net with a 34. Harvest festival to benefit “Sunshine Kids” Rosehaven Stables on Valley View Dr in Meriden will be holding their 3rd annual Harvest festival on 10-21 from 11-3. The festival is sponsored by Prudential Ct Realty and is a benefit for an organization called "Sunshine Kids". Sunshine Kids are a Nation wide group that assists children that have cancer. The organization supplies funds to children so they can go to amusement parks, field trips, and let them essentially be kids and forget about their dreaded disease and all that goes along with it. The event offers pony rides, cart behind the horse rides, face painting, moonwalk, popcorn, Ben bag toss, hay rides, pin the tale, and lots more! Questions about the Event can be directed to Prudential's manager, Paul Ott @ 203-741-5204. Franciscan Christmas Fair Come one, come all to the 16th Annual Franciscan Christmas Fair to benefit the counseling, education, home health care and hospice care programs of the Franciscan Life Center on Saturday, November 17, 2007, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the campus of the Franciscan Life Center, 271 Finch Avenue, Meriden, Connecticut 06451. Join in the spirit of Christmas by enjoying Franciscan music, quilt raffle, a living creche, pottery, jams and jellies, bread, and more. Freshly cut Christmas trees, hand-decorated wreaths and a fantastic basket raffle are also available. Bring family and friends. See you at the Fair. For more information call the Franciscan Life Center at (203) 237-8084. Q*WIN Women in Business Networking The Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce will hold a Q*WIN Women in Business Networking meeting at Mickey's Restaurant, 2323 Whitney Ave., in Hamden, Tuesday, October 16, 2007 from 5-7:00 pm. Come enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres and experience the ambiance of Mickey's. There will be a cash bar, lots of networking and as always -fun! To RSVP please visit our website at www.quinncham.com, email dee@quinncham.com or call 269-9891. Thank you. Emergency Medical Technician Course Hunter’s Ambulance Service, Vehicle and Education Resource Center, 474 W. Main St., Meriden. Classes will start on October 25, 2007 until end of March 2008. They are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Additional Saturday sessions are planned. Students must be over 18 years of age or older. Anyone over 16 but under 18 must have a signed parental permission form. (Available first night of class). Class size is limited to 30 students. For more information please call (203) 514-5142. October Events at Agusta Curtis Cultural Society What is in The Words "S.W.E.E.T Potato Society in conjunction with ACCC 175 East Main Street Meriden, CT Wednesday, October 10, 2007 6:00pm to 9:00pm S.W.E.E.T Potato Society in conjunction with the ACCC presents "What is in The Words", Spoken Word ....."At The Augusta". Caberet Style Event BYOB & BYOF $15.00 per person or $100 per table of 8. For more information call Floresia at 715-1758 Come and enjoy this new event happening on Wednesdays twice a month "At the Augusta". Bring your own food and drink to our version of a Poetry Slam....The Spoken Word..... "Fall Home Series" Judy Mik, Prudential CT & ACCC Tuesday, October 16, 2007 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm Free Admission.. Speaker will be Barry Katz a builder from Fairfield that will be talking on "Green Living Ideas" at the Augusta....More info to come SAVE THE DATE!! Meriden Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Meriden Hall of Fame & ACCC 175 East Main Street Meriden, CT Sunday, October 21, 2007 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm 5th Annual Meriden Land Trust & ACCC Presentation Meriden Land Trust and ACCC 175 East Main Street Meriden, Tuesday, October 23, 2007 7:00 pm "Coyotes in our midst" Coyote expert Tom Pepe will talk on sightings in the news and attacks on pets by Coyotes and why so many all of a sudden........Free Admission "TRICKS, TREATS, & ARTS - ACCC Sunday, October 28, 2007 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Halloween event for ages 4, 5 & 6.....$1.00 donation per person. Costume Parade, Pumpkin Carving Demonstration, Treats for Everyone, Games, Halloween Tattoos, and prize will be awarded for the most original artistic costume. Come and enjoy the fun "At the Augusta"..... WalkConnecticut Family Hikes Bring the kids! Feel the fresh air and enjoy quality time outdoors together. Family hikes, led by trained Family Hike Leaders, are part of Connecticut Forest & Park Association’s initiative, WalkConnecticut the trails to health and happiness. Join us for adventure along the trails, held throughout Connecticut the last weekend of every month. Free as a public service to the children and families of Connecticut. Pre-registration is appreciated. Locations are subject to change; call CFPA at (860) 346-2372. Visit www.ctwoodlands.org for additional family guided hikes. OCTOBER Saturday, 10/27; 10 AM – Noon, McLean Game Refuge, Granby; all ages Join us for a fun hike on a two-mile loop of easy trails through pine groves and oak forests. A lava outcrop will be the perfect place to rest and enjoy a snack. Meandering brooks and a small pond will be fun to explore along with the many rocks and plants along the way. Ducks, herons, and other animals might be spotted at the pond. Directions: One mile south on route 10/202 from junction with Route 20; main entrance to the Game Refuge is located on Route 10/202 in Granby Sunday, 10/28; the Field Forest, Durham; 2 PM – 4 PM; 6 years+ Come explore this gem of the woods in central Durham and explore this wonderful forested area. We’ll look for animal homes, interesting trees, plants, rocks, a stream and perhaps explore a vernal pool. Figure out the clues to find a letterbox (bring your rubber stamp and pad). Feel the fresh air and enjoy quality time outdoors together. Directions: From RT 17 in Durham, turn onto Maiden Lane, then onto Pickett Lane. Meet in parking lot between Coginchaug Regional High School and athletic fields. Do Something Special For Yourself! Become a volunteer and reap the countless benefits of developing new relationships and helping others. Do you have as little as one hour a week to spare? Why not spend it visiting an elder whose days are spent confined to the home and who seldom hears from family or friends? Perhaps you would enjoy driving an elder to the grocery, or to a much needed doctor’s appointment. All of these volunteer opportunities are available at Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers by calling 230-8994. We serve 16 different communities in the Greater New Haven area and need your help to make a difference in the life of an elder. Do something special for yourself: become a volunteer! Autumn Hike in Wallingford The Wallingford Land Trust will have a guided Autumn Hike on Saturday October 20th at Orchard Glen/Spruce Glen Properties 2:00 off of Barnes Park North off of Route 68. It’s moderately strenuous, hilly, with stream crossings and uneven terrain. This woodland walk will visit two adjoining land trust properties with fall foliage, mushrooms, wildflowers, birds, streams and a waterfall on a well-marked trail. Land Trust members will act as guides. There will be a Trail Work Day that morning at 9:00 at the same site with lunch to follow. If interested please contact WLT President Joe Palazzi at 284-0116 or Leader David Ellie at 269-9779. For more information on the Land Trust, please check www.wallingfordlandtrust.org. October Events at Temple B’nai Abraham October 19th - Family Shabbat Services and The Rabbi’s Toy Box -At Temple B’nai Abraham at 127 East Main Street in Meriden, families are always welcome to attend Friday night and Saturday morning Shabbat (Sabbath) services. The Rabbis Toy Box is available to help entertain little ones. On Shabbat morning, services begin at 9:30 a.m. Children can help carry the Torah silver and march with the Torah. Special Family Shabbat evening services will be held on October 19th and November 16th beginning at 6:30 p.m. On other Friday evenings services begin at 7:00 p.m. For more information, please call (203) 235-2581. October 21st -Fall Fun Hayride - Come have fun and enjoy a hayride and treats with Temple B’nai Abraham’s Auxiliary club on Sunday October 21st at 1:00 p.m. at Norton’s Fruit Farm, 450 Academy Road in Chesire. Cost is only $4 person. Fee includes a half hour hayride, donut holes and apple cider. Please call Susan Massicott at (203) 630-1947 to save your spot. Special membership price for new members - New members may join for a special membership price of $50 (per couple) for the first year. About Temple B’nai Abraham Temple B'nai Abraham is a Conservative synagogue which provides religious, educational and social programming for all age groups in a warm, extended family atmosphere. Shabbat services are egalitarian, and feature congregational singing. All are welcome. Temple B’nai Abraham is located at 127 East Main Street in Meriden. Please call 235-2381 for more information. Local cycling Team LEADS THE PACK BY Raising $7,708.16 For Diabetes Research in Tour de Cure ® A team of cyclists Spenceless Spinners from Wallingford raised $7,708.16 for diabetes research by cycling in the Tour de Cure ®, the American Diabetes Association’s annual cycling event, held earlier this year.. “Our team was remarkable. We helped raise money for the people in Connecticut with diabetes and we built a remarkable legacy of camaraderie and team spirit that will last for years to come,” said Jim Bartolotta Team Captain of the Spenceless Spinners Team. The Spenceless Spinners Team rode and received sponsorship from friends, family members, co-workers and local companies and organizations. Members of the Spenceless Spinners Team include James Bartolotta, Richard Badon, David Brockett, Kristine Carrano, Christine Catney, Judy Caturano, Dan Charest, Dennis Charest, Stan Chrzanowski, Christopher Cozzi, Dr. Armand Daccache, Julia Fogg, Christine Janis, Peter Naktenis, Mary – Alice Petrucelli – Timek, George Reed Jr, Rich Schmitt, Robin Thurston, Blair Warren, Maciej Wolski, and Lauren Zajzek. “Thanks to dedicated people like the Spenceless Spinners Team, the American Diabetes Association is able to continue working toward its mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes,” said Jim MacFarlane. The Spenceless Spinners Team were one of approximately 1,800 teams who rode in Tour de Cures around the country. Sponsored locally by Alpine Environmental, Tyco Healthcare, Trail of Terror, Sikorsky, AT&T, Electrical Wholesalers, Alstom Power, Radio Frequency Systems, Chemtura, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Gaylord Hospital, Gold’s Gym, Springfield Corrugated, NV Perricone, NewAlliance Bank, Xerox, Yale University, LA Fitness, and Valley Stone Credit Union. The 2007 Tour de Cure was held in more than 80 sites throughout the nation. To form a team for next year’s Tour de Cure, call 1-888-DIABETES or visit us at www.diabetes.org/tour. The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the Association has offices in every region of the country, providing services to more than 800 communities. New Uses for Old Buildings Meriden celebrated its 200 year anniversary last year and while there aren’t many, if any, buildings that go back that far, there are scores of older buildings in Meriden. Several of Meriden’s long-standing buildings recently changed hands. What does one do with an old building? The latest building which transferred ownership is 137 South Colony Street. Built in 1895, and known as the Meriden Brewing Company, it then cost $125,000 to build. Employment at the brewery was steady and wages were good, $20 to $25 a week. Abraham Agyeman is the new owner and is renovating the building into a shipping center and warehouse for goods headed to other parts of the world, particularly West Africa. The Studios at 55, is the new name for 55 Colony Street. Peter Limosani purchased the building in August and is renovating the former Swift Premium Ham & Bacon Company, built in 1902, into studios for performing artists -- musicians, comedians and dancers. Limosani is hoping to attract a music vendor for the retail storefront of the 20,000 sf building. 153 Pratt Street, previous home of Kuhn Employment Opportunities, was built in 1905. In September, Ye Old Book Bindery moved its operation from Cheshire, CT to this location. The company is primarily engaged in printing and binding books and pamphlets. Chris Komondy, owner, projects ten new jobs to be added to their current staff of five full time and five part time employees. They also plan to bring an-out-of town printing company and a newly acquired business from Kansas (related to the book bindery industry) into the 40,000 sf building. The Issac Lewis house, at 189 East Main Street, was built in 1868 by the founder of the Meriden Britannia Co. who also served as Meriden’s third Mayor in 1870. Amin Noori, the new owner, is converting the 8,500 sf building into office space. The former St. Paul’s Universalist Church at 5 Norwood Street was built in 1892 with Isaac Lewis being one of its largest contributors. After being vacant for a number of years the 14,500 sf building, with a 40 ft ceiling in the main hall, was recently purchased by the Holy Word Foundation Ministry out of East Haven, CT and will celebrate its first worship service in October. Trudy Magnolia CRAZY MASTERS SWIM PROGRAM Here is a chance for former competitive swimmers or anyone just interested in keeping in shape by swimming laps to join with like minded swimmers to practice together. All adults and all skill levels welcome! Practices at Choate pool are M & TH 6-7:30AM, and Sat. from 7-8:30AM Additional practice is Friday 6:30-8PM at the Wallingford Y pool Y Members and Choate faculty $140 for Jan-April 2008 Program members $180 Container Design to be Topic at Wallingford Garden Club Meeting "Fabulous Flowers and Foliage and Dramatic Doorway Containers" is the title of a program to be presented by Karla A. Dalley at the next meeting of the Wallingford Garden Club Tuesday, Oct. 9, in the First Congregational Church meeting room. A West Hartford resident, Dalley is a freelance garden writer and lecturer, a water gardening expert, a self-employed garden designer and consultant. She lectures to as many as 50 garden clubs a year. She created a water gardening department and annual lecture series at Gledhill Nursery in West Hartford. Dalley also designed the layout and display of water garden plants and hard goods that was considered especially attractive by The Connecticut Nursery and Landscape Association on its tour of the nursery. A part-time lecturer at Capital Community College in Hartford, she has given courses on various gardening topics including early spring gardening, perennial gardening, and gardening for butterflies and hummingbirds. She also is the creator and author of two email newsletters, one devoted to water gardening and the second entitled "Timely Tips and Topics and in the Garden" devoted to more general topics. The meeting is open to non-members for a fee of $5. A mini-luncheon at 11:30 a.m. will precede the program. Dalley will take questions from those attending her talk and provide a written handout for her lecture. Lyman Hall Class of 82 25 year reunion November 24, 2007 Elks Lodge in Wallingford 7:00pm – midnight. Cost is $59.00 per person. Call Mike Cassello at 203-265-2864 ext 175, or email Laurene at lmgtravel@sbcglobal.net, Volunteers Needed The Board of Education and Services for the Blind is seeking to place 20-30 volunteers throughout Connecticut to read, shop, sort mail and drive for blind neighbors. Volunteers must be 18 years old, have clean driving record and pass a background check. Training is provided. Call for an application today at 1-800-842-4510 x4129 or email lori.st.amand@po.state.ct.us Crafters Needed SS. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Meriden is holding a Holiday Extravaganza on November 3, 2007. Crafters and local artisans will be present. In addition, the Church will open up its kitchen specializing in a variety of ethnic foods. There will be a tea cup raffle as well. The craft show will run from 9:00 am -3:00 p.m. It will be held at St. Peter & Paul’s Community Center located at 305 Center Street, Meriden, CT. For information and crafter registration, please contact Linda Craig @ 203-269-9759. Quassy Guests Can Help Take A Trip Down Memory Lane Quassy Amusement Park celebrates its centennial in 2008 and those who have been to the park over the years may help the landmark property take a trip down Memory Lane. As part of its season-long “100 Years Of Fun” celebration, Quassy is planning to set up a number of displays to help reminisce about the earlier years at the lakeside facility. One display will be titled “Quassy Sweethearts,” and dedicated to couples who met at the park and went on to be married. “Through the years many local and area teenagers held their first jobs at the park, and certainly a fair number of them also found their first true love here as well,” noted George Frantzis II, a co-owner of Quassy. “And I can attest to that from personal experience as I met my wife here. Our first intimate moment together was on the ‘Wild Mouse’ roller coaster as I filled in for a friend who didn’t want to ride.” Those wishing to have a photo and short write-up included in the “Quassy Sweethearts” display should send a copy of a photo – not an original picture – along with a short story of 200 words or less. Information should include the year the photo was taken, identification of those in the photo, the year the couple met at Quassy and the year they were married. A telephone number for verification of submissions must be included and submitted photos will not be returned. Submissions should be sent to: “Quassy Sweethearts,” P.O. Box 1107, Middlebury, CT 06762. Another display planned for the centennial will be “Quassy Memories” and will include old photos, postcards and letters from guests reflecting on special occasions at the park. Those wishing to submit copies of old photos and written memoirs of 250 words or less may send them to: “Quassy Memories,” P.O. Box 1107, Middlebury, CT 06762. A telephone number for verification of materials must be included and copies of photos and postcards will not be returned. Photos must include short captions and the date or approximate date taken. Quassy is one of 11 remaining “trolley parks” in the United States and opened in 1908 after an electrified rail line from Waterbury was completed to Lake Quassapaug. The park survived the turbulent years of The Great Depression and World War II, when many similar properties across the nation closed their doors. Quassy has been family owned and operated since 1937 and has added new rides and attractions in recent years, including the popular “Saturation Station” interactive water play area and “Tunnel Twister” waterslides. For more information about the 20-acre facility visit www.quassy.com or call 1-800-FOR-PARK.