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Deadline for August and September issues of The People's Press

Ahhh, the last reminder for the August issue of the paper. The deadline is Monday (tomorrow) at 11:59 p.m. Some good news about the September issue as well - we have arranged with a new printer to print us right after Labor Day so the new deadline for that issue is September 1st instead of September 5th. Send all to andy@peoplespressnews.com I'm a little thoughtful today as in late September I will be turning 40 years old and at the beginning of October the paper will be turning 7. I am not looking forward to turning 40 at all!!! It's already started - you know - that feeling of "What have I done with my life?" and "I'm 40 years old....what happened to being 18?" and "God, I'm really old!" I suppose it's not so bad being half dead. Ooops, I mean half alive. Maybe, I should have a big birthday fundraiser for a local non-profit but I really don't like crowds and would send a younger looking double in my place. One that is handsome -not average, one with light brown hair - not gray, one with no stomach sticking out over the belt - like I do and actually has some form of muscles that would make me look good. Hey, that really is a good idea - if anyone qualifies please call! I would also be willing to give you all of my clothes that no longer fit any more. Hope everyone is good and remember "Life is Good till you turn 40!" Sincerely, Andy Reynolds

Wallingford and Meriden Town/Munipal Events, News and Activities July 2007

Wallingford and Meriden Town/Munipal Events, News and Activities for Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut - from the July 2007 issue of The Peoples' Press – The Number 1 Single Copy Newspaper serving Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut.

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 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 Special Day for Special People Committee would like to thank the contributors to this year’s 37th annual picnic in the park for Meriden’s senior citizens held on June 16. This year’s sponsors were AARP Chapter #2954, American Legion Auxiliary #45, Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, Thomas Bruenn, Carabetta Management Company, Castle Bank & Trust, City Mission Trustees, James LaRosa-Meriden Construction Inc., Franco American Club, First Congregational Church Women’s Fellowship, Jonal Laboratories, Health Net, Hunter’s Ambulance Service, Knights of Columbus, Lena Rovinsky, Meriden Federation of Teachers, Meriden Kiwanis Club, Meriden Parks and Recreation Department, North End Restaurant, Suzio Insurance Center, Suzio York Hill, and the Young at Heart Group. Special Day for Special People is always a wonderful day for Meriden’s senior citizens to enjoy Hubbard Park and we appreciate your financial support for this annual event! The 2007 Meriden Senior Citizens’ Award Scholarship of $500 was presented at the Senior Center on June 6 to Tricia Zawacki who graduated in June from Wilcox Technical High School. Tricia will attend Southern Connecticut State University this fall. Scholarship committee members were Lena Rovinsky, Josephine Najduch, Ellie Dessureau, Ann Aniskiewicz and Jenny Corriveau who raised money for the scholarship throughout the year and also reviewed the scholarship applications and picked the scholarship winner. Congratulations to Tricia Zawacki! Also, on June 21, 2007 Willene Everett Scholarship of $500 was presented to Jenna Crooms. The scholarship was established in 1998 in honor and memory of Mrs. Everett for her many years of dedicated service to the community as the Director of Elderly Nutrition at the Senior Center and for her 31 years as a valued employee of the Meriden Community Action Agency. Jenna graduated from Maloney High School in June and will attend Quinnipiac University in the fall. Congratulations to Jenna Crooms! Senior Center staff members are continuing to take applications for the Rent Relief Program (“Circuit Breaker”) 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. If you were a renter age 65 or over during 2006, or on Social Security Disability, you may be eligible to receive a benefit. Application hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Now that it is July, the hottest month of the year, try to avoid the sun between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, drink plenty of fluids, wear loose & lightweight clothing, keep your home cool with a fan or air conditioner and, most importantly, remember that the Senior Center is air conditioned for your comfort during the summer months. Have a great summer! John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director Mayor’s Corner - Meriden Dear Friends, Summer has arrived! It is exciting to see all the positive changes and renovations at Hubbard Park. We are so fortunate to have a gorgeous park to spend time celebrating family events, fishing, hiking, swimming, or just relaxing reading a good book. I would also like to thank the Fairview Observatory Committee and the Lion’s Club for bringing back some of Hubbard Park’s grandeur. The City offers a series of free concerts at the park. For more details contact the Parks Department at 203-630-4259 and enjoy some great music at the Hubbard Park Band shell. Special congratulations to Maloney Scholarship winner Michael Tidmarsh. I would also like to thank Irene Masse and the Scholarship Committee for their fine work. Congratulations to all the Rotary Scholarship winners and President-Elect Dan Hunter. I thank Past President Craig Nielsen and all the Rotary Club members for their generous donation to Noah’s Arc of Hope. With the long and hard work of the Hubbard Park Playground Committee that I appointed and with the help of so many…including Noah’s Ark of Hope, we will soon be breaking ground on a new playscape at Hubbard Park.. Amy, Bria, and I just welcomed our son, Blake, to the family. Thank you to all those who sent cards, gifts, and warm wishes. Everyone is doing well and just excited for summer. I am sure Blake and Bria will look forward to visiting the new playscape at the park. The summer brings some exciting events to our City. The 40th Anniversary of the Puerto Rican Festival and the Mt. Carmel Festival will also take place during July. Stay tuned for details about these and other exciting city events. July is a month where we celebrate the freedoms we have as Americans. None of this would be possible without those who served and those who continue to serve. We should all take a moment to send our thoughts and hopes to the women and men of our armed forces who are serving here and overseas to preserve those freedoms. I wish them all a safe and quick return from duties that we all should appreciate. I also think we should take the time to remember those who have passed in this great service to our country. We continue to work hard to keep our city clean and free of blight. I was pleased to see the three blighted homes on Cook Avenue finally being demolished. The neighbors have waited long enough. Let’s all chip in and keep our city clean. If you see graffiti or excessive litter, please call the Mayor’s Hotline at 203-630-4000. Together, we can make a real difference. Enjoy the summer weather. Thanks for all your support! Sincerely, Mark D. Benigni - Mayor Wallingford Senior Center News and Events EVENING “R” BAND CONCERTS Thursdays, July 12, 19, 26, Aug. 2 The Wallingford Senior Center will host Wallingford’s own “R” Band for four summer evening concerts in our air-conditioned Great Room on Thursdays, July 12, 19, 26, and August 2. The public is invited. Each concert begins at 6:30 p.m. PIZZA SUPPER Thursday, July 19, 5:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now through July 18 for a pizza supper to be held Thursday, July 19, at 5:30 p.m. Supper includes 3 slices of pizza and soda. Tickets cost $3.00 for members and $5.00 for non-members. Following the pizza supper, the “R” Band will present an evening concert at 6:30 p.m. BARRYMORE! Monday, July 30, 1:00 p.m. Enjoy the life and times of the “bad boy” actor of the early 20th century, John Barrymore. Have a rollicking good time as Barrymore (actor Richard Clark) takes us down memory lane to the era of the roaring 20’s and 30’s. Following this live theater performance, ice cream sundaes will be served. Tickets are $3.00 for senior center members and $5.00 for non-members, and are on sale now through July 27. MAH JONGG ANYONE? Interest has been expressed in a weekly Mah Jongg game at the Senior Center. Anyone who would like to play this ancient Chinese tile game is asked to sign up on our interest sheet and then you will be contacted regarding possible playing times. SUMMER DRAWING CLASS Learn to draw a picture and have it look more professional. Learn shading, depth and how to bring out the focus point. This class meets Wednesdays, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., from July 11 through August 29 (8 classes). Fee: $15.00. Instructor: Stephanie Juliano. Advanced registration is required. DANCE PARTY with VINNIE CARR Tuesday, July 31, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Our July Dance Party will feature Vinnie Carr who will provide dancing and listening music. Bring your friends to this free event! Beverages will be provided. SOCIAL SERVICES MARIE CUNHA, SOCIAL WORKER “HUMOR AS A COPING MECHANISM” Monday, July 23, 10:15 a.m. Laughter as a way of coping with stress and anxiety is used by people all over the world. There are emotional and physical benefits of laughter and, yes, there is a place for humor by family members who are caregivers. Join us and learn: ♥ Guidelines for developing humor ♥ Common Caregiver Emotions ♥ Examples of Wit used by Caregivers Your reservation (265-7753) helps the Hospitality Committee know how many goodies to bake. This program is free and open to the public. COPING WITH HEARING LOSS 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. YOUR RED WHITE AND BLUE Planning a vacation? Don’t forget to bring your red, white, and blue Medicare card. What if you can’t find your card? Solution – request a replacement Medicare card online at www.socialsecurity.gov. The website is fast, easy and secure; or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to request a new card. 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. Consider switching to generics, over-the-counter, or other lower-cost drugs. Keep using your Medicare drug plan card, even while in the coverage gap. A flyer with helpful tips to bridge the coverage gap is available at the Senior Center Front Desk. Phone 265-7753 to request a copy; or go on the Internet and type www.medicare.gov and look for CMS Publication No. 11213. SHARE YOUR FREE TIME Sharing your time, even if it’s only one hour here and there with a friendly visit, phone call, escort to a medical appointment, or grocery shopping is mutually rewarding for the volunteer and for the recipient of services. Please call Marie Cunha at 265-7753 and say you want to be an Interfaith Volunteer Care Giver. CAREGIVER COURSE The Alzheimer’s Association is offering a free four-part caregiver education series designed to help caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The Caregiver Course will be held on Tuesday evenings at Pond Ridge at Ashlar Village Masonicare of Wallingford. The first session was held on June 12. Upcoming dates are July 10, August 14, and September 11. Pre-registration is required. Please call 1-866-363-6679. NEWS FROM THE DAILY ACTIVITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE VICTORIA THULIN, DAI PROGRAM COORDINATOR The Daily Activities for Independence Program is truly an asset not only to the Wallingford Senior Center, but to the Wallingford community as well. We operate Monday through Friday, from 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., with wonderful structured programs for people with mild to moderate memory loss. During the time each participant is here, they get quality time with the staff and other peers in the program through music, arts and crafts, word games, and the utilization of one’s own leadership qualities. If any of you would like to visit us to gain knowledge as to what goes on behind these closed doors, please feel free to call to make an appointment. We can be reached at 265-7753, Monday through Friday, from 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. VOLUNTEER FOR THIS SPECIAL PROGRAM: The Daily Activities for Independence (DAI) is in need of volunteers. If you are interested in making a difference, volunteer for this special social-model day program, by calling Victoria Thulin, DAI Pr GOLF LEAGUE SECOND SESSION BEGINS TUESDAY, JULY 24 The second ten-week session of the Senior Coed Golf League will begin on Tuesday, July 24. Play will be at Miner Hills in Middletown. The cost is $140 for members and $145 for non-members. This fee includes nine holes with a cart and a cookout on week #10 at the course. Senior Center members may sign up beginning July 9. Non-members may sign up as of July 16. Mayor’s Corner - Wallingford Dear Friends: We wish you a wonderful July with lots of fun. The warm days and bright sunshine give us a chance to enjoy the outdoors. I like a comment attributed to an elementary school student. “Most books say our sun is a star. But it knows how to change back into a sun in the daytime.” Whether a sun and/or star, it sure makes for beautiful weather in the summer. As you plan activities, be sure to remember the Twilight Tunes concert series on the Parade Ground. The first concert is on Wednesday, July 11th at 7:00 p.m. The concert ends by 8:30 p.m. There will be a concert every Wednesday until August 22nd. The July 25th event, involving Frisbee catching dogs, will be held at Doolittle Park. As another student said, “some people can tell what time it is by looking at the sun. But I have never been able to make out the numbers.” Regardless of what time of day it might be, be sure to put some fun in each day. Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. Mayor Invitation to a Public Meeting - US Environmental Protection Agency Grants The public is invited to review and comment on 3 City grant applications to the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Brownfields Program The grants are: $200,000 community-wide assessment grant with focus on the factory H neighborhoods; $200,000 clean up grant for 77 Cooper Street (Factory H site); $200,000 clean up grant for 104 Butler Street (Factory H site). A public meeting will be held at noon on Weds, July 11, 2007 at the Women and Families Center, 169 Colony Street, Meriden. A link to the applications may be found on the City’s website- www.cityofmeriden.org. or you may view them on weekdays at the Economic Development Office, City Hall, 142 East Main Street or the reference room of Meriden’s public library, 105 Miller St. Library hours- Mon. to Weds. 10AM - 9PM; Thurs. to Sat.10AM to 5PM. Public comment period will end on July 23, 2007. Contact Peggy Brennan (203-630-4152) or by email pbrennan@ci.meriden.ct.us with questions. CITY OF MERIDEN JULY EVENTS SWIM LESSONS Free swim lessons for children ages 4 & older will be held weekdays from 7/16-7/26. Registration will be held at the Hubbard Park pool (10:30AM) on Saturday, July 14th. Children must have a valid 2007 pool pass and bring a bathing suit and towel to register. MERIDEN RAIDERS REGISTRATION Registration for the upcoming 2007 Meriden Junior Football League season will be held at Washington Park’s Pete Sini Field house (rear of park) on July 21st from 10:00AM-2:00PM. SUMMER SOUNDS CONCERTS The Summer Sounds Concert Series delivers three exciting performances for the month of July(all shows take place at Hubbard Park’s James J. Barry band shell). On Friday, July 13th, the modern rock sounds of Gaiah can be heard from 7:00-8:30PM. On Friday, July 20th, the rock & pop melodies of Riverstreet can be heard from 7:00-8:30PM. The Beatles tribute band Number Nine takes the stage on Friday, July 27th from 7:00-8:30PM. All concerts are free to the public with refreshments available for purchase. SUMMER PLAYGROUND PROGRAM The 2007 Summer Playground Program will operate from June 25th – August 3rd at Baldwin Pond Park & Habershon Park for children ages 6-12. Both locations will feature fun-filled days of games, activities, crafts, and field trips. There is no cost except for field trips. The playgrounds will be open Monday-Friday; 8:30AM-3:00PM (please note that on certain days the program will not be available for non-trip participants). Interested participants can register at the two sites any time the program is in session. PUBLIC SWIM The 2007 Outdoor Public Swim Program at the Hubbard Park pool is underway! Daily 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 from June 20th – August 22nd (no run on 7/4). The free runs will get underway at 6:30PM and feature a ¾ mile race for children and a 5K race for adults. Refreshments and prizes will be available. SUMMER ACTIVITIES REGISTRATION Registration is currently underway at the Parks & Recreation office for the Spike It! Volleyball Camp and the three remaining Meriden Nature Camp sessions in August. 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 Friday, July 13th Gaiah (modern rock) (7:00-8:30PM) Friday, July 20th Riverstreet (rock/pop) (7:00-8:30PM) Friday, July 27th Number Nine (Beatles tribute) (7:00-8:30PM) 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 Wallingford Park and Recreation News, Programs and Events Wallingford (55-years- old and Over) Sports: Softball and Basketball sponsored by Wallingford Parks & Recreation Department WE HAVE PLAYERS 55 TO 80-YEARS-OLD REGISTER BY CALLING (203) 294-2120 PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT FEE: RESIDENTS………. $25 NON-RESIDENTS………. $30 SOFTBALL MID-APRIL THROUGH OCTOBER A Special Event: August Softball Tournament. Teams may enter in age divisions: 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and 75+. Older-aged players may join a younger-aged team. ASA rules. BASKETBALL 7TH SEASON STARTS IN OCTOBER Original Organizer and Founder: Jack Doyle, Commissioner Players from all towns are welcome: Wallingford, North Haven, Hamden, Meriden and other towns near and far. Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Players from all towns are welcome. P.L.A.Y Page Programs and Leisure Activities for Youth Kids Off Road Triathlon This fun-filled day includes swimming, biking and running for kids ranging from ages 7-14. Each participant will receive a T-shirt as a souvenir and entered in a free raffle to win prizes. There will be two distances for the event. Ages 7-10 participate in a 50 meter swim in the pool, 1.2 mile mountain bike and 0.5 run on dirt trails and grass. Ages 11-14 compete in distances of 100 meter swim, 2.2 mile bike, and 0.75 mile run. All participants will be required to ride fattier bikes (tires should be at least 1.25 inches wide and have knobs to grip loose gravel) and wear a bicycle helmet. The course will be monitored and closed off to traffic. All finishers will receive a medal for their efforts. Finishing places will not be awarded. Kids will need to bring a swimsuit, towel, goggles (suggested), bike helmet-Mandatory for Participation, a bike and running shoes. Participants will be separated in different heats by age: 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14. Sunday, September 9th 9:00am Location: Choate Rosemary Hall Fee: $20 Wallingford residents / $25 Non residents ***Sign up for the Mini-Triathlon course held in July and taught by Kelli Montgomery, certified USA Triathlon Coach and Elite Triathlete. Meet ‘n’ Mingle Social This event is inviting all incoming 6th graders to Moran, Dag and Holy Trinity Middle Schools to a night out to meet your new classmates. Come meet and mingle with all of your new classmates before school starts. Festivities include DJ, game show, contests and pizza. Don’t miss out on this fun filled Friday Night. Participants can start registering on June 1st. Registration Deadline is Thursday August 23rd. When: Friday August 24th Time: 7:00pm to 10:00pm Fee: $10 Kids Mini Triathlon Training Kids will have fun learning the basics of triathlon. Session 1: Swim Skills (Location: Community pool) Session 2: Bike Skills (Location: Linear Trail) Session 3: Running Skills and Putting it All Together (Location: Community Pool) Date: 7/25, 8/1, 8/8 Wednesdays 5:45-6:30pm Price: $20 It’s Back!!!! The Rec-ing Crew It’s the return of this once successful Middle School program. The Rec-ing Crew is a Friday night program that meets once a month. Activities include trips to such places such as Lake Compounce Night of Fright, a Night of Laser Tag, etc. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity. Participants meet at the Parks and Recreation Department. Schedule not established at time of production. When: September – December (One Friday Night a Month) Fee: $95 Staff: Kenny Michaels, Program Specialist NFL Punt, Pass & Kick The Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club, NFL Flag league and the Wallingford Parks and Recreation Department would like to invite all boys and girls ages 8-15 to come be part of the nationwide skills event sponsored by the National Football League. Winners from our local contest will advance to the sectional competition and then possibly to the state. This could just be the first step on the way to a team championship at a NFL game. There is absolutely no cost for this program. The 2006 competition, Wallingford was well represented at Foxboro Stadium. Kaitlyn Reed made her first appearance in the 8 – 9 year old age group, and two time representative Briana Mastel competed in the 12 – 13 year old division. A strong showing by both girls at Foxboro will hopefully lead them back to the competition this year! For more information, call Kenny Michaels, Program Specialist at 294-2120 or Phyllis Murray, Director Boys & Girls Club at 269-7535. Thurs. Night Aug. 30th Reg. starts at 6:00 pm Location: Pragemann Park

Read and Enjoy the latest issue of The People's Press - Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut - from the July 2007 issue of The Peoples' Press – The Number 1 Single Copy Newspaper serving Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut. To read the latest People's Press in image form click here! To read the 2006 Text Versions of The People's Press !To read our prior image issue click here! To read every paper from 2000 to now click here! For local website links click here!Find a local business or home number for free - click here Get Local TV Listings and Entertainment News. To go to The People's Press Message board click here! To sell and read FREE classifieds click here! To sell and read FREE Automotive classifieds click here! To sell and read FREE Real Estate classifieds click here! To place and read FREE Help Wanted classifieds click here! For Advertising Infomation click here! For Issue Schedules & Deadlines click here. To send news, stories, photos send to andy@peoplespressnews.com

Wallingford and Meriden Community Stories July 2007

Reader’s Stories and more for Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut - from the July 2007 issue of The Peoples' Press – The Number 1 Single Copy Newspaper serving Wallingford, Meriden and all of Central Connecticut.

Bobbie’s Bevy of Beauties Myself as well as my neighbor garden friends are going to miss our annual trek to the Westfort Farm on Allen Avenue. Carol and Richard are closing their nursery business of twenty-four years this season. Wish them good health and happiness in their retirement years. Jimmy’s tomatoes and cucumbers are showing some very nice growth. He also planted some pole beans. Probably won’t have that long awaited first tomato sandwich until the end of July or beginning of August. Usually by July 4th he would pick his first tomato. Because of our cooler spring weather they ripen much later now. Especially this year. It took a while but the spring flowers finally came into bloom. And I think exceptionally beautiful this year. Some of the summer ones are beginning to flower. Here’s a list of what I have in bloom. Will go bed by bed so I don’t miss any. Perennials Grass Plant – purple Roses – pink Salvia – purple Cone Flower – pink, white and yellow Lily – pink, yellow and peach (no Callas as of yet) Liatris – purple 4 o’clocks – yellow Rose of Campione – purple Knautia – reddish purple Lambs Ear – purple Mini carnation – white Stoke’s Aster – purple Loosestrife – pink, yellow and white Tickseed – yellow Yarrow – yellow and orchid – 2 varieties Astillbe – red and purple Hosta – purple and white Evening Prim Rose – yellow Sedum – yellow and purple – ground covering Johnny Jump Ups – purple Black-Eyed Susan – one early variety Foxglove – purple Bachelor Button – purple and blue Green Jack in the Pulpit and white, pink, red and purple columbine have finished their showy display. The euyonomous, upright and spreading in brilliant color. The butterfly bushes are growing by leaps and bounds and are starting to bud. Lots of butterflies and bumble bees. Annuals Marigold – short orange and tall cream Begonia – white, pink and red Cleome – white, pink and purple Angel Mist – pink, orchid, purple and white/purple Zinnia – white, yellow, pink, orange and red – 3 varieties Impatience – orange, orchid and purple Salvia – peach, red and purple Gerber Daisy – orange red Wave Petunia – pink, red and purple Annie’s Bloomers – orange Gaura – pink Flamineo Samba – red Upright Fuchsia – red/purple and orange Penstemon – red Pansy – white/purple Black and Blue Salvia – loved by the hummingbirds – seen a couple already. Portulaca – white, yellow, pink, orange and red – reseeds for me every year If some of these named seem weird to you they do to me too. And what about the pronunciation? LitlBit will be 1 year old on July 17th. He came to live with us on October 8, 2006. Outside of one little mishap I would says he’s “House-broken.” What a wonderful word in the English vocabulary. We also had a lab mix and a Pomeranian with LitlBit being our 6th dachshund. His affection towards people is un-believable. What a good will ambassador he would make . If you could stand being licked to death. This past week he wasn’t up to par. How a 14 pound pup could spew forth from both ends of his body what he did was unreal. Talk about clean up detail. To the East Side Veterinary Clinic we went. Been going there close to 40 years now. Dr. Kris checked him out and said he had a gastric bacterial problem. She gave him an injection for dehydration and he’s on an antibiotic. Also a special diet for 5 days. The day after his medication started began he was almost his normal lovable, rambunctious self again. Congratulations to our oldest granddaughter Emily “MeO” for her award on receiving straight “A’s” while in 7th grade at Lincoln Middle School. And also to our middle granddaughter, Abigail, “Abby” who graduated from Benjamin Franklin accumulating 7 awards. Gump Jimmy and I are very proud of you both!!! Think I’ve covered just about everything. The next issue will have summer bloomers. Flowerecerely Yours, Bobbie G. Vosgien Summer Vacation By Emily Schmidt – Age 12 Finally, after a long year of schoolwork, summer vacation has arrived. Yet many students are spending their summers watching television or playing video games. As for myself, I plan to spend the summer actively. One of my favorite summer activities is going swimming. We have a pool in our backyard that is used practically everyday. Another fun way to spend the summer is with friends. One of my best friends, Carly, lives just up the street from me. She comes over almost everyday so that we can play games like soccer or badminton. However, there are some days where it may be too cool to go swimming and Carly can’t come over. On days like these I often sit out on the deck, porch or garden and read a book. While sometimes it may be rather enjoyable to utilize technology such as the computer or TV, I’d much rather be outdoors. Why? When the school year comes back around, all of my fellow classmates will be wishing for summer to return. I’ve waited for vacation all year, so why not appreciate the warm weather! Thanks for Your Continued Support Oasis “Holy Joe” Coffee Cafe Written by: Eloise Hudd What is the Oasis Holy Joe Coffee Cafe? It truly is an Oasis in the middle of Iraq; a place where our military members can sit and relax and have a cup of coffee, tea or other beverage. I know because I spent many hours at the “coffee bar” both socializing and making coffee for others. How did it get started? The assigned Chaplain started a coffee-house like atmosphere, open to any military member, a place to momentarily escape your surroundings and enjoy the company of friends, a true “Oasis”. It was so well received that they built a wrap around deck, strung lights and expanded the tables. They now serve 3,000 cups of coffee a week! Initially the Chaplain paid for all the coffee and the supplies, but at 3,000 cups it quickly became unaffordable. So here’s where you all came in (and continue to come in). Based on emails to home, the support and donations of coffee supplies multiplied. The Wallingford and surrounding communities have been extremely supportive of the coffee drive. In fact, thanks to the hard work of Tom Jastermsky, we now have supporters such as Big Y, Ashler Village, Masonic Lodge, Cooper-Atkins Corp., First Congregational Church and numerous other local and out of state churches. In addition, the Chaplain at Sather AB Iraq has contacted other outpost and they are now starting additional “Holy Joe’s” or “The Sandy Bean”, the newest Coffee Oasis in another area. I have included some excerpts from emails from Iraq showing their gratitude to you all. LTC Michael Coggins, USAF, Sather AB, The Holy Joe/Oasis Coffee Cafe: “We are concerned about their welfare, morale and quality of life here at Sather AB. That’s where the Oasis Coffee Cafe comes into play; it is a quality of life initiative that helps boost troop morale-and that’s extremely important in a combat environment” SSG Buffie Hall, USA, VBC, The Sandy Bean, Coffee Oasis: “Your care packages and gifts allows the soldiers to feel closer to home. Before the troops go out on different missions, they come through my office, the Chaplains office, for a cup of hot coffee or chocolate. Some soldiers have said that this is the best part of their entire day...” CH Joe Riley, USA, Camp Liberty “We have a lot of coffee drinkers here...Coffee should be in the Regular/Ethel/High Test version...Having a cup of Joe lifts the spirit...and for a brief moment with a cup of Joe in hand, transports us out of the combat zone...I appreciate what you are all doing in bringing some cheer to a sometimes not so cheery place....Thank you for helping in this way” This article is meant as a THANK YOU and asks for your continued support. Coffee and coffee supplies (sugar, sugar substitute, and creamers) can be dropped off directly at the Wallingford First Congregational Church, 25 S., Main St, office hours are M-F, 9-5 or mail monetary donations, made to First Congregational with ‘Holy Joes” written in the memo. For more information or to see the photo display contact Tom Jastermsky at 203-697-1042. You could always send your warm wishes and letters to the following “Holy Joes” Coffee Cafes: SSgt Buffie Hall LTC Coggins Maj Joseph Riley MNC-1,89th MP BDE 447 AEG/Chaplain 3-2 SBCT, HHC APO, AE 09321 APO, AE 09321 Unit 43318 APO, AE 09344 "Barbara's Bountiful Bouquet" By Barbara Sherburne How is your garden growing? I did a couple of hours of weeding and haying yesterday (June 27th), so I am caught up with that for the moment. The next thing I'll need to do is stake the tomatoes I don't have cages for. Some of my "volunteer" sunflowers are going to be competing for space with the corn, and very soon I will have a difficult time walking between rows of tomatoes and corn. I really need a bigger plot, but that would mean more weeding. I have volunteer sunflowers in two locations. My cleomes from last year reseeded all over the place, and they are not a perennial plant, and I am pulling a lot of them up because I have hundreds of them. The catnip plant is about three times as large as last year, and I should trim that down too. I could never use that much catnip. My day lily came back very nicely, and it is starting to bloom. Garlic is doing well too, which kind of surprised me. I planted it along an edge right where a lot of cleomes came back, but there is one "volunteer" garlic next to one of the tomato plants, and I have no idea where that came from. The marigolds are already starting to plump out, and are looking festive. Snapdragons have recovered from their transplant blahs, and will soon be in bloom. The asters also recovered from transplant, and I can't wait to see what they will look like (never planted asters before). The basil I grew inside over the winter went through a difficult transplant phase, but they are doing okay now. I don't know if the corn will be knee-high by the 4th of July, but it's coming along (and they love the hot temps, so they have grown considerably in a few days). The second planting of cucumbers survived, and two hills where I planted cucumber seeds are doing well also. My garden neighbor told me to thin them or I'll get no cucumbers. Hmmmm. The Community Garden is graced with many varieties of birds and butterflies, and I saw two bluebirds the other day, which is a rare sight. They are just gorgeous. The yellow finches are stunning as well. I have seen no ticks this year, which is a relief to me, but I don't know the explanation for that. Some birds have nested in one of CJ's gourd birdhouses, and there are babies inside. Haven't seen them yet, but mama bird is constantly bringing food to the nest. My three bird feeders in CJ's garden attract a great many birds, and it is a treat to be able to watch them. And I saw several little rabbits yesterday. They are so cute! I know they eat things in people's gardens, but so far no animals have eaten anything of mine. I can't wait to pick my first tomato! Yum. I have about 21 tomato plants, and some are a mystery as they were not labeled. I do know that I have two kinds of yellow tomatoes though, which I thoroughly enjoyed last year and which I had never planted before. I am hoping that six of my mystery plants turn out to be cherry tomatoes, which are a favorite of mine. I am guessing that I'm going to be correct about that, but time will tell. Oh, by the way, my plot is 15 feet by 15 feet. I definitely make use of every inch, and it's going to be crowded, but that's okay with me. I hope you are enjoying your own garden. It's a lot of work, but I love to be out in the open space of the Community Garden, and I have become friends with many of the people who garden there. Believe it or not, the Community Garden was started about 30 years ago. I only found out about it eight years ago, and I have been living in Wallingford for 26 years! Go figure. Barbara Sherburne barndt49@yahoo.com "Independence" by Sharon Agli-Pageau With the warm summer winds often comes thoughts of independence, particularly around the 4th of July, when most are invited by various mediums to reexamine what this concept means to them. Celebrating this holiday of our country's birth often ignites a myriad of emotion within us. It is a time of reflection, appreciation, pride, honor and awe, as we remember how truly privileged we are to live in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. Whether you are enjoying your loved ones' company at a picnic/barbeque with family/friends, taking in a spectacular fireworks show, spending time camping or at the beach, the concept of independence breezes across your consciousness and reflects in your heart. How many of us take the time to really appreciate our own individual independence? The independence most of us live out each day. I can tell you as a Mom of a 21 month old child, diagnosed with an extremely rare condition since his birth, the concept of independence lives deep within me every moment of every day. How many of us live gratefully and do not take for granted our health, capabilities and opportunities daily? While it is certainly not realistic for most to focus perpetually on those blessings ordinarily bestowed, I do invite you to once in a while, step back from yourself, witness the many gifts that health and wellness abound for you and be thankful! To celebrate and respect one's capabilities and share of them selflessly requires a level of compassion and maturity highly beneficial to oneself and to one's neighbors. My son, Hunter Christian, is my daily inspiration and reminder of how blessed I am to be of service to others in need. Despite Hunter's circumstances of requiring a Ventilator to breathe and a GTube for feeds to thrive, he is a courageous and blissful boy, of immense purposes, which unfold in such a natural beauty, so as to awe those who share in his life. My deepest gratitude go out to each and every one of you who have stepped forward in any and all ways to both support and improve Hunter's quality of life. As we continue to work together as a family and a community to fight for Hunter's Independence, via various fundraising efforts to supply Hunter with the equipment he needs for his Freedom, we all win. As a team. As individuals. The rewards are bountiful and there for us all. Remember to take that moment for yourself occasionally to honor and celebrate your independence! "STARBUCKS' Happy Hours for Hunter!" by Sharon Agli-Pageau As Hunter's Mommy, I am honored to announce that the newest Starbucks, located in Meriden, 496-A South Broad Street (across from Townline Plaza), has offered to host a Benefit Fundraiser for my son, Hunter Christian Pageau, on SATURDAY, JULY 14th from 3pm to 7pm. The entire staff of this Meriden store have come together compassionately to plan and implement this event, in support of assisting our family to ascertain the much needed Wheelchair Accessible Van required to transport Hunter out of our apartment safely. Hunter's only means of transportation currently is via ambulance transport to and from his scheduled Dr's and Therapist appointments weekly. Until we can raise the funds needed to acquire the appropriate van to accommodate Hunter's medical concerns, Hunter is unable to experience his world in the regular way that most other children do, such as going to the park or visiting with family and friends. Team Meriden Starbucks have stepped forward with such kindness, enthusiasm, concern and support, for which my husband and I are truly grateful. To witness the genuine intent of this store's staff, and the glow that surrounds their actions taken to be effective for Hunter, has warmed our hearts as parents. We are excited to inform the community that they have arranged for the following Fun Activities to held at their store on July 14th to benefit Hunter's equipment needs: Live Entertainment, Raffles, Karoake, Face Painting, a Bakesale and more! I, myself, will be there happily greeting/meeting new friends, revisiting old friends, sharing information with the public regarding Hunter's diagnosis of Spinal Muscular. Atrophy with Respiratory Distress, selling both bracelets and pins to honor our campaign of "Hope for Hunter" and entertaining any ideas from you, our neighbors, on how to continue to be an effective advocate for my son. This fundraiser was offered, planned and carried through with such loving/positive energy, and we all know that it will be a special day not only for Hunter, but for all who attend. We guarantee you will have a good time, as you will be surrounded by many happy faces and kind souls who are determined to make a difference in the lives of others. We invite you to take a moment to stop by the local coffee shop and support 21 month old Hunter in his battle against an extremely rare condition, for which there are only 2 other children in the United States known to have the same affliction. My family joins with Team Meriden Starbucks to thank you in advance for your support of this very important cause to keep Hunter thriving and defying his diagnosis! For those of you who cannot make this event, but still wish to help Hunter, donations may be forwarded to the Hunter Pageau Trust, 34-3 #116 Shunpike Road, Cromwell, CT 06416. Contact Person: Sharon Agli-Pageau, (203) mailto:627-3948/fitforlifesja@hotmail.com. EDITOR’S NOTE: PLEASE SEE STARBUCKS ADVERTISEMENT FOR HUNTER IN THIS ISSUE! GOT LOVE? Are you the kind of person who has a big heart and a lot of love to give? If you are, then we've got some special kitties and dogs at the Meriden Humane Society that desperately need your help. Mr. Mittens and Sal who have both tested positive for FIV, are the most beautiful, loving cats and can have many happy, healthy years ahead of them. We give them as much love as we can, as they are super affectionate boys, but they need a permanent or foster home so they can feel loved all the time. They deserve it! We do recommend that they be in a single cat household and be kept indoors only. Rayne, who is visually impaired, is a young, very sweet female cat that probably lost her eyesight as a result of getting tapped by a car. She so loves and longs for a caring, compassionate person that she can learn to trust. Theia, is a young visually impaired Mastiff. Her heart is as big as she is and she also needs someone that she can learn to trust, as you will be her guide, until she learns her way around her home. We also have the most loving Collie/Shepherd mix named Max. Could you find it in your heart, to give this seven year old boy a good home for the rest of his life? He would definitely return your love! I'm sure you would agree, if you visit the shelter, that we have the most beautiful cats, kittens and dogs and I can't imagine why anyone would go anywhere else first. We have kittens in every color and fur length imaginable and they are just waiting for you to come in and adopt them. Of course you must fill out an application first, so come on down! You can see all of these animals and many others, by visiting our website at http://www.meridenhs.petfinder.org/, or visit our shelter at 311 Murdock Ave., in Meriden. Remember to check out our upcoming events and fundraisers also. See you at the Shelter! Lori Peck, MHS Senior Volunteer Lonely Times for Spoiled Brat Dear Housewives, What is the deal with parents who can't hear anything negative about their kids? Our son got in a fight with our friend's son (the friend's son is an only child). We scolded ours (and he apologized on his own) but they just told their son to ignore ours. It takes two to tango. Should we say something to them? Anti-Spoiled Brat in Meriden JUNE: We know a family who cater to their only child so badly that he is becoming an emotional cripple. He doesn't have to write thank you notes, eat food that he doesn't want to eat, talk to anyone, look at anyone, and certainly no apologies for his years of bad behavior. I feel bad your son had to be in this situation. I think sometimes, for some parents, it is hard to have only one child. They focus so much on him/her that they actually hinder them from becoming productive members of society. This is certainly not the rule by the way. Kids look to their parents to see how to handle problems and this kid sees his parents defending him to the point that he is the victim. Not a good plan for the future. Anyway, there is nothing you can say to this family. They will make you the villain to their innocent child. They need to grow up and get a clue. It will only get harder for this little boy. FLORA: May I say tense situation? It seems to me that the other family was afraid that their child was going to have a major blow-up or melt-down and chose the ignore it route. Not a good idea. The other family did not want to be embarrassed. You must have been so proud to have your child apologize with out being prompted. What a proud parent moment for you! The other child witnessed your child making good of a bad situation. Take a deep breath and do not say anything to them. Modeling proper behavior is more productive them verbal confrontations. That is what that would turn into. JUNE: Good point Flora, how proud I am when my little June's do something so sweet all on their own. Cranky Ballerina Dear Housewives, My daughter does not like another little girl in her ballet class. Should we move her to another class? Sad Stage Mom in Wallingford FLORA: Move her to another class so she can find another child she doesn't like? Absolutely not. You didn't mention her age but you can give her subtle learning hints by reading some books. Ask your children's librarian. the "Help Me Be Good" books may help, Franklin series or Clifford. Find out what it is about the other child she doesn't like and talk it out with her in a gentle way at bedtime or when you are brushing her hair. JUNE: Dear Stage mom--GET A GRIP. Read the above question. Why are so many parents afraid to tell their kids "the deal"? The deal is, you go to class and act nicely to other kids or you stay home in your room on punishment. The punishment is not for not liking someone else (you can't like everyone) but for not being nice. Why are we tip toeing around our kids like they are little time bombs? You are the boss; you are supposed to set the rules and the tone for how they conduct themselves in the future. Good luck. Man up. A Rude Reader Dear Housewives, I am a reader and find that with little kids I get so tired at night so I try to fit it in during swim lesson time and softball time. I feel as though I should be talking with the other parents. Is it rude to read in public? Not Antisocial Bibliophile JUNE: No, I don't think it is rude to read in public. I agree it is hard to find time to read. I try to in bed at night and fall asleep by the third page. I just renewed my book from the library for the third (yes third) time. But if someone seems nice and wants to chat you are better off doing that. It is nice to know the parents of the kids yours are spending time with. FLORA: It is hard when there is a chatter box nearby. Many parents will respect your time and let you read in peace but others won't understand. The book will always be there so I say chat, develop a relationship and make a friend. DVD REVIEW FLORA: "Facing The Giants" Rated PG. This is a great movie that was filmed by a starred with members of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany Georgia. It is a drama that tells the story of a coach that uses a different tactic to get his losing team to get on the winning side. Be a winner too and rent this keeper! Flora is officially a 007 Fan. I watched my second James Bond film, "Casino Royale" and liked it! It is Rated PG-13 why this film isn't Rated R is beyond me. This is James's first mission as a secret agent. Oh, it was good! JUNE: Oh my Flora, the Sherwood Baptist Church in Georgia made a movie? Wow let me get right onto Netflix. I thought renting videos were supposed to be fun. It is Hollywood not Holywood. If you want life lesson after school special stuff go for it but our readers want big, star studded blockbusters. Right? (By the way, it is on Netflix.) We just rented "Babel" starring Brad Pitt. This slow movie made no sense to me at all. Him and his wife travel to Morocco (I think) to save their marriage after losing a baby. They leave behind their other two children in the care of their nanny. The nanny takes them to Mexico for her son's wedding when the parents are stuck in a crisis that keeps them in the scary hills of Morocco. Disaster happens of course. Don't waste your time on this movie. EARTH TALK From the Editors of E/The Environmental Magazine Dear EarthTalk: I’ve been noticing a lot of organic wines lately in the supermarket. Is this going to be a continuing trend? -- Peter Toot, via email The recent upsurge of interest in organic foods has indeed not escaped the wine business and, yes, organic wines are more popular and more readily available than ever. According to the Organic Trade Association, an industry group representing organic food producers and distributors, U.S. sales of wines made with organic grapes reached $80 million in 2005, a 28 percent increase over the previous year. Such sales represent little more than one percent of the total U.S. domestic wine market, but the association expects organic wine sales to grow about 17 percent a year through 2008, mirroring growth across all sectors of organic agriculture. There are two types of organic labeling on wines. The vast majority of wines made with organically grown grapes do not qualify for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) white-and-green “certified organic” label. This is because, like many conventional wines, they include added sulfite preservatives to prevent oxidation and bacterial spoilage. While trace amounts of sulfites occur naturally in wines during the fermentation process, most producers add more, later in the winemaking process, to prolong shelf life. An estimated one percent of consumers, primarily those with asthma, report sensitivity to wines with larger amounts of sulfites. Symptoms can include a quickened pulse, lung irritation, skin redness and rashes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of sulfites on fruits and vegetables in 1986 after 13 consumer deaths were linked to them. Current USDA rules allow wines containing fewer than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfites and made from organic grapes to carry the “certified organic” label. But organic wines may only advertise that they are “made from organic grapes” if they contain more than 10 ppm and up to 100 ppm of sulfites. Some organic grape growers consider it unfair that the addition of sulfites—which occur naturally and are not synthetic chemicals—should disqualify their wines from “certified organic” standing. Moving beyond organic, a handful of vineyards have adopted so-called “biodynamic” (BD) grape growing methods, adding to organic methods the practice of cultivating, pruning and harvesting on a strict calendar in sync with lunar cycles. Many view such practices skeptically; nonetheless, proponents claim that BD wines taste better and remain drinkable longer. The website Wine Anorak (“anorak” is British slang for “geek” or “nerd”) lists biodynamic wine labels from around the world. Some leading organic (and low-sulfite) wines include varieties from Ceago, Frey, LaRocca, Bonterra and Organic Wine Works. Meanwhile, the California-based Organic Wine Company sources and distributes organic wines from around the world. Additionally, California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), a trade group representing that state’s organic agriculture industry, provides a free online directory of California organic products and services, including the state’s many purveyors of organic and biodynamic wines. CONTACTS: Wine Anorak, www.wineanorak.com/biodynamic3.htm; Ceago, http://www.ceago.com/, Frey Vineyards, http://www.freywine.com/; Bonterra, http://www.bonterra.com/; Organic Wine Company, http://www.theorganicwinecompany.com/; CCOF Organic Directory, www.ccof.org/directories.php. The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund Fundraiser This September 7th, 8th and 9th The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund will hold its twenty-first fundraiser at Stop & Shop on East Main Street in Meriden. The fund was created in memory of our son Brian, who perished in a house fire twenty-three years ago. We decided to establish a fund in his name to promote fire safety education. We had learned that we couldn’t just give money to the fire department, because it would have to go into the city’s general fund, and probably wouldn’t find its way to their budget. We had to be creative, and buy or obtain tangible things they would have purchased. With the advise of former fire chiefs Ronald Fontain, Robert Raby, and William Dunn, and fire marshal Bill Kroll, we developed a plan to acquire the items they would have purchased, since they could retain tangible items. Initially we had a committee that met with fire department officials and review requests for items they wanted for fire safety education. After a while, we realized that the formality of a committee meeting wasn’t necessary. We were all on the same page when it came to knowing what was needed. So how do you educate people about fire safety? It sounds pretty simple and straightforward. The idea of not using drugs seems simple too, but we know people have to be educated in this area also. Everyone has heard “Smoke Detectors Save Lives”, but unfortunately there are many homes that don’t have them. Every time we hear the news of a fatal fire, we ask why? I have heard all sorts of excuses from people for decades. We hope our message doesn’t always reach deaf ears. We have no way of knowing how many people are alive today because they had smoke detectors, but we’re sure there are many. How do you educate people about fire safety and working smoke detectors? Repetition! “Working smoke detectors saves lives” has appeared on all posters we have printed for decades. Each year we create a new poster with a particular fire safety message. Originally we were using posters with local pictures. Our first one had a picture of former Fire Chief Bill Dunn when he was a fireman. Another year we had a poster with news anchor Al Terzi in our den pointing to the smoke detector. In recent years we have been using illustrated posters with pictures created by students. We have been printing and distributing specialty advertising for years with our message written on them. The specialty advertising we have passed out has always been unique. We have tried to use items that most people don’t usually have. Examples of the less common specialty items we have distributed include a computer/TV screen cleaner, soda can covers, pill holders, CD holders, and ice cream scoops, just to mention a few. Our biggest fundraiser and publicity event is our yearly hot dog sale, which will be on Sept. 7th to 9th at Stop & Shop on East Main St. in Meriden from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. We will be selling a hot dog, soda, and chips for $2.00 with all proceeds going to fire safety education. All items are donated. We will be distributing a variety of fire safety literature, have numerous giveaways, and several teacup raffles with theme based baskets. Please come and support us. If you would like to volunteer to help, please call 634-1883 - Roberta Ash Marriage of Convenience or Love? A Continuing Story By Diana Lewis Chapter 3 “Did you see Papa’s face? How flushed he was?” she asked Buck, as she was pushing her food around on her plate. “Yes, I did and it worries me.” “It does me too,” she answered. After supper they went up to see him again before they went to bed, But he was sleeping. He didn’t look much better but at least he was resting, Beth Ann thought. Beth Ann had packed her things in boxes and asked Buck if he’d move them for her into his room. After he did that, they got ready for bed. They lay there talking for awhile after they got into bed. Then Buck reached over and kissed her and she thought she had died and gone to heaven with his caressing and kisses. The next morning he woke up before Beth Ann and got up quietly and dressed and went downstairs. He was in the kitchen talking to Martha Rae and drinking coffee. They were talking about Jonathan. Buck couldn’t believe the words that Martha Rae was telling him. “He went peacefully in his sleep,” she had said, but he still did not want to believe those words. How was he going to tell Beth Ann that her father was gone? They heard a scream from upstairs and knew that she had found out herself. He rushed to her with Martha Rae at his heels. She rushed into his arms when he got to the top of the stairs. She was really crying by now. Martha Rae patted her back in comfort her but there was no comforting for the moment. Buck led Beth Ann to their room and laid her on the bed and held while she cried her to sleep. When she was asleep, he sent for Mark and told him the news and for them to go out on the range without him today. He had to stay here with Beth Ann. The next few days Beth Ann went through the motions of her days in a daze. She didn’t even remember the funeral. She went through the motions. She picked at her food at meals times. Buck was getting really worried about her because she was starting to loose weight. He called the doctor and he told him that she just had to go through the process of grieving in her own way but for him to be there for her when she needed him. It was hard for Buck. But that’s all he could do. One evening, he went upstairs and found Beth Ann sitting in the rocking chair in her father’s room. He walked and sat on a stool beside her. “Why? Why did God have to take him?” she cried. “I really don’t know the answer to that, Sweetheart, but he was suffering with pain from his heart, and maybe God didn’t want him to suffer any more. Would you want to continually see him suffering?” His words were soft and gentle. “I suppose not, but I miss him so much.” she cried on his shoulder. “I miss him too even though I’ve only known him for a short time, I respected the man greatly as a boss and a father-in-law. Buck held Beth Ann until all her tears were spent and then she told him to go to work, that she would be okay now. He wasn’t sure he wanted to leave her alone, but she insisted. On his way out the door, he found Martha Rae in the kitchen getting dinner ready. He asked her to keep an eye on her to make sure she was okay. He would be in the north field of she needed him, to send someone out for him. She said she would and that eased his mind a little so hopefully he could keep his mind off his wife. It seemed like the day had lingered on and on and finally 5:00 came and the men headed back in to the bunkhouse and Buck back to the ranch. He took care of the horse and rushed in the house. He washed up for supper which Martha Rae and Beth Ann were putting on the table. He pulled his wife to him and kissed her. “Are you alright?” he asked. “Yes, I’m fine,” she answered kissing him back. They sat down to eat. The meal was delicious as usual. Martha Rae was definitely a good cook. She was teaching Beth Ann to cook because she didn’t know how. After dinner they had their coffee and dessert in the living room. Buck asked her again about her day. She told him that Martha Rae was giving her more cooking lessons and that she had made the rhubarb pie that he had for dessert. He told her that she had done a good job because the pie was delicious. The next morning, Beth Ann wanted to be near Buck, and she knew he was in the barn, so she walked down there. When she got there she heard voices. She heard Buck talking to one of the hands, Bob Thomson. She didn’t know him well because he was one of the newer hands that Buck hired to go on the drives. They would be leaving in a few days for another drive to sell some of the cattle. “Are you content with your new position?” asked Bob. “What is that supposed to mean?” Buck asked sharply. “Well, I mean, now you are the proud owner of a big high paying ranch since you married the boss’s daughter.” “What are you saying?” asked Buck again. “Well you married into money and that put you in a high position.” “Are you saying I married Beth Ann for the ranch?” “I guess that what I’m saying.” Buck was angry now but he didn’t really care what anyone thought about their marriage because it wasn’t true. “You know I really don’t care what you guys think about it because it’s none of your business. If you don’t like working for me, you know where the road is.” He started to mount his horse. Beth Ann heard all of this and ran out of the way so neither one of them would see her when they left the barn. After they left she ran into the house and to her room and cried. She was angry because Buck didn’t say that the statement wasn’t true. She couldn’t stay here with a man that just married her because of the ranch. She packed some things in a small bag and snuck outside to the barn. She hitched up the horse to the buggy and ran back to the house to get her jacket because it was kind of cool out. When she went back into the house she ran into Martha Rae. “Where are you going?” she asked. “I’m going into town,” she answered. “I’ll go with you. I need to pick some thing up at the general store.” “No, I’d rather you didn’t,” said Beth Ann. I’ve got some things to do and I’d like to be alone. Besides I have a surprise for Buck that I want to bring back if I can find what I want.” Martha Rae was hesitant but she finally agreed. She could feel something was amiss but she’d have to wait to see what it was. When Beth Ann got into town she went to the bank and got some money out. She left the horse and buggy at the livery stable for Buck when he came in to get it. She quickly ran to the stage office and bought a ticket. She just barely made it in time for the stage and she was on her way. She arrived in Salem the next morning. She wandered around town for a while and went to the hotel diner for something to eat. She didn’t take a whole lot of Buck’s money and she would soon run out if she didn’t find a job and a place to live. While she walked into the diner, she almost ran into this beautiful woman with blond hair. She wore her hair high on her head. You won’t feel Old… Submitted by Donna Mahon Just in case you weren't feeling too old today, this will certainly change things. The people who are starting college this fall across the nation were born in 1989 . They were not born when the space shuttle blew up. Their lifetime has always included AIDS. The CD was introduced 2 years before they were born. They have always had an answering machine They have always had cable. Jay Leno has always been on the Tonight Show. Popcorn has always been cooked in the microwave. They never took a swim and thought about Jaws. They don't know who Mork was or where he was from. They never heard: "Where's the Beef?", "I'd walk a mile for a Camel", or "de plane Boss, de plane". McDonald's never came in Styrofoam containers. They don't have a clue how to use a typewriter Do you feel old yet? (Sorry) Notice the larger type, that's for those of you who have trouble reading. Save the earth. It's the only planet with chocolate “Sheltering an Animal’s Perspective” by Gregory M. Simpson The expression “dog days of summer” comes from the ancient Romans. They made the connection that the hottest summer days occurred at the same time that the dog star, Sirius, appears to rise and set with the sun. The Roman culture thought the heat from Sirius increased the sun’s temperature. In warm weather, companion animals must never be left alone in cars, not even for ten minutes. The ASPCA indicates that on an 85 degree day, it takes only ten minutes for a car’s interior to reach 102 degrees, even with windows open an inch or two. If you don’t believe it, try sitting in a car on an 85 degree day with the windows open an inch or two. You’ll become a believer in no time at all. After half an hour on an 85 degree day, a car’s interior can reach 120 degrees. Shade offers little protection on a hot day and moves with the sun anyway. Even when the temperature is a comfortable 70 degrees outside, the inside of a car can be as much as twenty degrees hotter than the temperature outdoors. Such temperatures are hot enough to cause a dog to suffer heat stroke and permanent brain damage. Without emergency care the animal could die. Those animals most at risk of overheating are young or elderly animals, those with short muzzles and those with thick or dark colored coats. Dogs don’t sweat the way people do, except some from their paws, according to Gene Mueller, a veterinarian and president of the Anti-Cruelty Society in Chicago. To bring down the body temperature of an overheated animal, soak the animal in cool water, not ice water, making sure that the water does not get into the mouthy or nose of an unconscious animal. Seek immediate veterinary care. Remember, when traveling during hot weather, exercise your companion animal during dawn or dusk which are the coolest parts of the day. Always carry a gallon thermos of cold water. This is all just common sense, right? Unfortunately, on many occasions I have needed to have an announcement made at a department or grocery store to notify the person who left an animal in his or her car to attend to the animal before it succumbs. One time I called the police but ended up confronting the woman leaving the store before the police arrived. Common sense? That is a commodity some people are lacking. When you see an animal left in a car, take action. It is illegal in Connecticut to leave a child or an animal unsupervised in a car at places like malls, casinos and the like. Tell the courtesy desk clerk to announce the license plate number and alert the customer to return to their car. If this doesn’t get their attention, call the police. What they are doing is against the law. You may also want to generously distribute leaflets produced by the American Humane Association (P.O. Box 1266, Denver, Colorado 80201), entitled, “How Long Will You Be Gone?” Educate those who don’t have, or won’t use, common sense. For the animals, Gregory M. Simpson Gregory Simpson’s animal welfare involvement spans over 25 years, having provided leadership for several Connecticut organizations, as well as having served as state advisor to the national Friends of Animals. Chosen by CAT FANCY magazine as one of the ultimate cat lovers in the U.S., he is also a member of the Cat Writers’ Association. Cover Story Contest The following stories and words were sent in by our On-Line Subscribers. They were asked to write something based on the cover photo for this issue. As always, you are the ones who make a difference with this family paper so you get to vote for the one story or words that best reflects the photo!!! It’s up to you to decide what reflected on how you felt about the photo Call us at 203.235.9333 or email us at peoplespress@peoplespressnews.com with your opinion. Thanks to everyone who shared and thanks to you for letting us know. The stories/words are in the order that we received them and in no way reflect our opinion. FYI – We have not included the names of the submitters – your vote should be by number and in the next issue we will let you know the writers and the winner even though they are all winners for writing. To be part of our on-line polls, contests and reminders – simply go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ and click on the subscribe button. 1. WE WANT YOU!! (This was sent in with every other letter red and blue) 2. ‘Hey Frank.’ ‘Yeah Joe.’ ‘What are you lookin’ at?’ ‘Well, see that guy over there?’ ‘You mean the one streaking down East Main Street with only a red, white and blue hat who looks a lot like Andy Reynolds, one of the people behind the People’s Press?’ ‘Yeah, that guy.’ ‘I see him, what about him?’ ‘Do you know why he does this every year?’ ‘Well it so happens I do. Andy thinks that streaking is a way to celebrate Independence Day.’ ‘He thinks freedom from clothes represents the birth of our nation and a celebration of democracy?’ ‘Either that or his only pair of jeans is in the wash.’ Publisher’s note on this entry: If Andy streaked not a soul would come out but it is true that he has only 1 pair of jeans. 3. Mildred & Waldo Shortleg from Meriden, are seen here a waiting the return of their son Presto who has been serving the armed forces during this on going conflict with the first army bomb disposal unit. Presto has been deployed for over 15 months now and they are throwing him a surprise party on his return this month. Submitted by Puppy Gordon 4. We’re proud & happy to live in America. 5. 4th of July Contest By Olivia School: Israel Putnam Lives: Meriden When 2 dogs named Elizabeth who was white and Briana who was brown were running in a large, beautiful field, they stopped and looked down. There was a note for the best 4th of July costume. So they got some things from their owner who was named Samantha and brought them outside. They set up an American Flag, decorations and costumes. So they put them on and sat down where it took place. And...They Won! So the contest man took their picture and put it in the newspaper. Samantha was proud of them. The End 6. Thanks mom and dad. I'm Snowy, and I'm speaking for both of us. We really love it when you pay special attention to us and dress us up for important occasions. We are really looking forward to the 4th of July because we know you always have a BIG barbecue with LOTS of great food! We love the hamburgers and hot dogs and whatever else someone wants to give to us. Yum. We love the people, too! We get SO much attention, and that's what we love most, the hugs, the praise, the games, the toys -- it is just so much fun! We are both devoted to you, mom and dad, and we know how much you love us, and we show our love to you every day and want to protect you and comfort you. It's kind of like this great big country of ours. When we see you celebrating the 4th of July, we remember how important this United States of America is to everyone, and we are so grateful to be a part of it. This wonderful country is the best ambassador in the world, and this country does its very best to protect and comfort our people, and people throughout the world. We do have connections, speaking of us dogs, with dogs throughout the world, believe it or not, telepathically, and I can tell you for a fact that there are thousands of dogs who wish they could live here in the USA. Many, many dogs are badly mistreated in other parts of the world. We both wish we could help them, but all we can do is offer whatever healing we can and wish them well. What we believe is that all people are connected energetically to people all over the world. If you all could only get on the same wavelength, we would all be able to enjoy a peaceful time on this planet of ours. We are both looking forward to the 4th of July, and it's a fabulous celebration for our country. Me and my buddy are hoping that someday there will be a day selected to celebrate the peace of the world. That would be truly awesome. Mom and dad, thanks for taking that fantastic photo of us (we look like twins, don't we?) and sending it to the paper! Does this mean we are famous? Love you so much. 7. Independence Day The time is here again---the fourth of July! Our yearly celebrations will be begin. America will commemorate Her Birthday once again. There will be plenty of fireworks on display. Our flags will be raised and displayed. And the Song "The Star Spangled Banner" will be played all across this wonderful nation. When we hear our National Anthem... if we are able... we should all stand. By doing this we will honor all who gave their lives for our wonderful land. The Valiant men and women who gave their lives for Freedom. They all had families and loved ones just like you and me and aren't here tonight to be with them. The Freedoms that we now enjoy in this country were won by those who paid the price. So let's stand and honor our fallen for the sake of the freedom we enjoy today. But let's not take America for granted, let's not take them lightly.... the freedoms won. Those who are serving now will demonstrate that defending freedom isn't easily done. If you have an opportunity to see an Independence Day parade, remember it commemorates the sacrifices that these men and women made. When you see the our Stars and Stripes waving proudly in the air, let's thank God that we are standing there. America, even with her problems will always stand to the last. We'll never have another like it, wherever we go. We're here because of God's Hand and we should do whatever it takes to defend our worthy land and keep our freedoms that we have and enjoy. 8. Trixie and Bruno That’s my girl, there on the left. Trixie. We’re sittin’ there in our backyard, just as proud as can be. I’m on the right, Bruno. The people call me by different names, Trixie always calls me Bruno. It was just a month ago, at the Vet’s office, that we first laid eyes on each other. She wasn’t like the others, she was special. She was wearing a lavender beret and four of the cutest lavender boots you’d ever want to see on a dog. She was a vision in Lavender. She made me feel alive. She had allergies, so she was snorin’ louder than ever. Yeah, snoring! Nothing gets under Trixie’s collar, even a visit to the vet, she’s unflappable. She was sound asleep on the tiled floor, making the light fixtures ring with her snorin’, her four lavender boots moving as she dreamed. It was somethin’, alright. And I was watchin’ every move. She got taken in first, and, I tell ya, my heart fell. Then I got taken in and we had side-by-side tables. She was awake now, our eyes met, and she was mine. I was hers. She was having some time on that table, snortin’ and coughing. She looked at me with tears in her eyes. I sneezed at her. She panted. It was all over in a minute. We got put in a pen together for about an hour. The next thing I know I’m being pawed by the Vet, put back in my crate and Trixie’s getting her hat back on straight. That’s it? My Trixie is …gone? What just happened here? I figured it just wasn’t to be… Our love just wasn’t in the cards. But wait, my crate’s being’ packed into her van. I’m right beside her again. What’s the deal here? I’m goin’ home with 'er! Now we get a new get-up everyday it seems.. This one has me wearin’ this big, goofy hat, we’re both wearin’ new collars, and Trixie’s got this goofy bow. A big, goofy bow. I don’t know what this stuff is I’m steppin’ on… But ya know, now that I got my Trixie, I don’t care. Ya see, we’re just sittin’ here waitin’ for our puppies, and man, that is sure worth a goofy hat. I wonder what they’ll put us in next time? 9. Mildred & Waldo Shortleg from Meriden, are seen here a waiting the return of their son Presto who has been serving the armed forces during this on going conflict with the first army bomb disposal unit. Presto has been deployed for over 15 months now and they are throwing him a surprise party on his return this month. Waldo was so happy that his son Presto joined the armed forces since he also had served as a bomb detection canine, and on his return from an assignment was retired from an in the line injury. Waldo remembers that he loved working as a team member even in those stressful situations protecting others and said he wouldn’t had traded that time in the service for anything. Waldo met Mildred on his return home from the service at the hospital and have been together every since. Presto wanted to serve his country with distinction like his father but he did not know if he should stay local and service his City, State or join the armed forces and help protect others on a larger scale. His decision to join the armed forces has taught him a lot and he hopes that he will be able to use his skills he learned here at home. Prestos parents and his immediate family of humans are prone to be a military family and can not wait for his return to Meriden where he can share precious moments and belly rubs with them again. 10. The Fourth of July…. “Yep Bowser it’s just a week or so away and we’re all dressed up and ready to celebrate our nations birthday.” “I know Duke, but what are we celebrating?” “Well, lets see, some refer to the 4th of July as Independence Day, independence from what? – I bet if we ask our mistress she’ll know. “Here’s what she came up with – a bit of background on the holiday” - courtesy of Duke and Bowser’s mistress. The 4th of July is a celebration of our independence or freedom from Great Britain. Back in 1775, the English thought they would sail over to the colonies (what they called the 13 original states), with a contingent of armed troops and take over the fledgling government from what they perceived as ‘rebels’. But the upstart colonists, Tom Jefferson, Sam Adams (yep, the beer guy), John Hancock and that firebrand writer Tom Paine of “these are the times that try men’s souls” fame; plus a host of others had other ideas. They just wanted to secure their ‘rights’ as settlers, seeking independence from their home country desiring to establish a government of their own. They did not wish to be ruled by a King over 3000 miles and an ocean away. You know “Taxation without Representation” and all that! So, Tom Jefferson took on the task and was the main author of the Declaration of Independence with some help from Ben Franklin, John Adams and a couple of others. The first draft of the document was written in about 17 days. It wasn’t a very long manuscript; however it was pretty clear in its scope. Self government, no interference from the ‘home’ country where most of the “upstarts’ had their roots. The Continental Congress pored over the document starting on July 1 and on July 4th of 1776 adopted the Declaration. This day is generally acknowledged as the birthday of the United States as we know it. It also was the beginning of the Revolutionary War; the Brits weren’t going to give up what they considered prime property without a fight. But, that’s another story. The first official celebration of the Fourth of July was in 1777, a year after the D.O.I. was adopted. Held in Philadelphia it was a gala affair, ships in the harbor decked out in flags and other colorful finery as were buildings in the city decorated with bunting. A 13 gun salute to recognize the original colonies; musical programs, parades, speeches by dignitaries and in the evening a gala fireworks display over the harbor. Thus began the celebrations of independence from Great Britain, a tradition which continues today. Many communities celebrate the holiday with fireworks, parades, band concerts with many families getting together for outings and barbecues. However you celebrate the holiday take a minute to remember what the day is really all about This year Meriden recognizes the 4th with a concert in Hubbard Park beginning @ 5:00 PM culminating with a gala fireworks display from Castle Craig at approximately 9:00 PM on Tuesday July 3rd. Have a happy and safe 4th. The Real Cover Story – American Pit Bull Terriers By Sabrina Brini and Anthony Bongiovanni Did you know most people who meet these two gorgeous irresistibly silly dogs tend to be terrified of them? You may be wondering who in the world could possibly be nervous around these two clowns, but it may shock you that Lyte and Duncan are both American Pit Bull Terriers. Most people do not immediately recognize them as APBT’s because of the simple fact their ears are not cropped, in which dog owners do for breed standards or intimidation reasons. Yet, Duncan nor Lyte have ever been trained to intimidate or be aggressive. However, the overwhelming stereotypes, prejudices, and misunderstandings seem to flood peoples overall impression of the breed as a whole. When Anthony and I moved in together we decided we wanted a puppy to make our house and home. Of course, we wanted to get a pure bred yellow Labrador retriever; after all they have been seen as the “family dog” of the decade. We quickly learned that life is full of surprises. I got a job and learned a dog had been abandoned there for nearly two years; however it was not a puppy nor was it a Lab. She was just about the other end of the spectrum; a four year old American Pit Bull Terrier. Fellow co-workers tried to convince me to adopt this heartbroken and somber dog, but we had our mind set on a Lab. It was not until I walked outside one day and saw the most radiant dog, shimmering in her red coat, rolling in the fresh green grass that I knew I met my forever companion. She had the most magnificent smile ear to ear. I had never seen any creature more beautiful, more peaceful, more stoic…it was Lyte. No one knew if Lyte was housebroken or destructive indoors, yet Lyte never had the chance to prove herself in this world. However, from the moment she stepped her paws in our home she knew this was her last chance. After one week of owning her she walked down the stairs with something pink in her mouth and gently dropped it at my feet. I looked down and saw it was a brush I had bought for her. From that moment on, I knew she gained my trust and we were going to be best friends forever. She over exceeded in pleasing us, following commands, and making us laugh. Lyte is the biggest teddy bear, who constantly wants to sit in your lap and hold your hand while you drive. About a year after adopting Lyte, Anthony and I decided to foster a puppy, in a bad predicament like Lyte, from Hot Water Rescue. That is when Duncan came into our lives like a bolt of lightning. Duncan was confiscated from a drug raid when he was only twelve weeks old. When his owner was released from jail he opted not to pick Duncan up because he felt he was “too stupid.” Little did he know, Duncan was born bilaterally deaf. Luckily for Duncan, his deafness saved his life. Duncan is the ultimate silliest clown you will ever meet. One is to wonder how someone can be so enthusiastic about life with such a rough start. However, maybe that’s why God put dogs on this earth; to teach us a thing or two about pushing forward in life no matter what road bumps we face. Duncan’s intelligence has proved to shock everyone, including myself. He has learned over forty-six signs in sign language and knows more than your average dog. He knows his basics: sit, stay, paw, and drop it; just to name a few. More impressively he can distinguish going from the backyard, front yard, walk, park, car, door, who’s here, sing a song, peoples names and much more all with basic sign language. Duncan’s favorite activities include playing with his dear buddy Preston, a former foster American Pit Bull Terrier. I must say though, his favorite game is to play hide-n-seek, which every time he beats Lyte in finding me. Duncan’s nose and eyes have compensated for his deafness which allows him to be much more perceptive of everything around him. Duncan had always been peculiar since a pup. There were plenty of days we would come home from work and have a panic attack because we could not find Duncan, but then there he would be in a tight ball on top of the refrigerator. Once he took a heave duty metal frying pan off the drying rack, carried it across the house and curled up with it. I can’t forget when he took all the shoes out of the closet and made a pyramid in the middle of the living room and was so proud of himself hen I got home he couldn’t sop wiggling his butt. Although with all his peculiar tendencies, not once did he chew our shoes nor was ever a destructive puppy; he just wanted to make everyone laugh and to this day he still does. Obviously, we couldn’t resist adopting this intelligent clown. However, not everyone thought it was a good idea; after all Duncan was not only a “Pit Bull” but a deaf one. Both Duncan and Preston proved that deaf dogs are just as loveable and sharp as an average dog. Now four years old, Duncan is the biggest love bug who will soak you with kisses. He is constantly wanting to learn new signs and constantly watching every thing going on, including planes in the sky or flies on my ceiling. Most nights, he knows when someone pulls in the drive way prior to Lyte because he notices the head lights through the window. Visits to the grandparent’s house are always the highlight of their week. At my parents house Duncan goes into brain overload when my Italian parents speak more with their hands than their mouth. Duncan randomly starts giving them every trick he knows! Of course, at Anthony’s parents house they are so spoiled they literally hid under the kitchen table when it is time to go home and start to whine and cry like children throwing a tantrum. Duncan and Lyte are like any other well loved dogs. They love to play and cuddle. However, it breaks my heart when people cross the street during out daily walks because they are scared of our dogs simply because of their breed. Believe it or not, these precious faces have been asked to leave parks because they are “Pit Bulls”. Not to mention, it was nearly impossible to get homeowners insurance or find a place to rent that would accept our dogs solely because of their breed. Every day, more states and towns are banning American Pit Bull Terriers, like Lyte and Duncan, based solely on misperceptions. Breed Specific Legislation specifically targets certain breeds of dogs and makes them illegal to own, even if that individual dog never did a single thing to hurt or threaten anyone. The sad fact is the stereotypes are not going to end until more people see pictures and hear stories of well-cared for Pit Bull Terriers and other misunderstood breeds, like Lyte and Duncan. As a dog owner, especially of this breed, I have to be their voice. I honestly can say we can not ask for better dogs. Duncan and Lyte absolutely love children, they bark only when necessary, they follow all our commands, and most importantly brought genuine love and laughter into our home. People often ask me how I got Duncan and Lyte to pose in this patriotic picture and I simply say to them “because they are American Pit Bull Terriers.” Once you won an American Pit Bull Terrier you quickly learn they will do whatever necessary to please their owner, even if that means wearing goofy bandana’s, hats, and streamers; they are the most loyal yet silliest friends you will ever make. My only wish is that this country can be as patriotic for ALL breeds, just as Lyte and Duncan have been for their country. NEW TV LEADS TO MAJOR REMODELING JOB By Phyllis S. Donovan When we moved into our present house many years ago with five young children and a lifetime ahead of us, we figured we were set for life. But as the children grew up, married and left, the house settled and grew older along with us. From time to time, we’ve taken a hard look at it and made changes along the way. We added a new deck out back one year, a new kitchen a few years ago and a new master bathroom last year. Usually, a social gathering at our place prompts those good hard looks at the premises. This year, it’s our turn to entertain our college crowd, my husband’s fraternity brothers and their wives, most of whom settled in New England after graduating from UMass. We’ve been getting together every year since graduating, usually at Christmastime but occasionally in summer on Cape Cod where a few of them have retired. I’ve been lobbying to have our family room redone before we hosted the gang again, but my husband wasn’t really into it. That is, until he recently decided he couldn’t live without a big new flat screen TV. We couldn’t have it delivered until we made room for it by moving the existing clunker out of the living room and down into the family room. “It’s not going down there until I get that room fixed up,” I told him. The room takes up most of the lower floor of our raised ranch and since the shrubs out front have grown so large they shut out a lot of the natural light, it has become dark and dreary and virtually unused by the two of us since the kids left. To make matters worse, the room had become a catch-all for furniture no longer good enough to remain upstairs in our main living space. It also held eight large bookcases crammed full of books, half of which we should have parted with long ago. My father, Fred Salvini, was the type who would size up a problem like that and dive right in to fix it. I’m enough like him that my husband just sighs when I go into my “Salvini mode,” sits back and lets me get at it. (He has had spinal surgery so can’t do much of the heavy lifting himself.) Set on brightening the room, I selected a light blond maple flooring to replace the gritty old vinyl tile floor. Before it came, I painted the wall of dark walnut paneling which was the rage in the 60s and 70s but makes a dark room even darker. I painted it white in a satin finish. It took a coat of primer first to cover the brown in the process (and I found that I don’t have the energy I used to have. I once could have painted the whole room in the time it took to cover that one wall.) But when finished, it achieved the exact effect I’d wanted…lighter and brighter. Two days later, a pair of neat and skillful young men came, as contracted, and laid the new maple flooring. Wow! What an enormous change! But I was still stuck with a mountain of books (which I’d lugged into my husband’s adjoining office) and the eight walnut bookcases (we dragged out to the garage during the floor installation) to house them. “Instead of all those dark bookcases cluttering up the place, what I’d really like is a new white built-in bookcase unit installed on one whole wall of the room to neatly hold all of those books,” I said. “We can do that for you and we have a couple of days free now because another job was cancelled,” offered one of the men who’d just completed installing that floor and the new vinyl tile in the half-bathroom/laundry adjoining it. A man after my own heart, he sat right down and drew up a plan. With that, they went right out to a building supply store and bought everything they needed to construct the new floor-to-ceiling bookcase. And …eureka! In two days, it materialized exactly as I’d been picturing it all those years. My husband is amazed at how beautifully the room is shaping up and how a formerly dark and unappealing space has turned into a handsome new living area. Of course, it’s virtually unfurnished and we still have to go through all those books and put all the “savers” onto the new book shelves but the hard part is done. All it took was determination, sweat and hard work…. and money. But not as much as he’s paying for the new TV which still hasn’t arrived yet. As a quid pro quo, I think I got the better part of this deal, hand’s down! Turning Back TimeBy Bill MercuriThey say that time flies. I’m not so sure if it flies but I have a rather strong feeling that it just disappears. The Friday before this past Memorial Day I stood in the third base dugout at Ceppa Field. It’s the same dugout that I stood in as a teenager consumed by baseball, eating, sleeping and drinking the game from sunrise to sundown every glorious, hot, sunny summer day. Whether is was playing high school baseball for Platt or Babe Ruth and American Legion baseball in the late 1970’s, stepping on to the baseball diamond at Ceppa Field were the times that I lived for. This particular Friday evening I found myself, almost by pure accident, participating in a Platt High School baseball alumni baseball game. It was a very informal event coordinated by Jim Frederick, the current head baseball coach at Platt. Players representing each decade since the school opened in 1959 straggled through the chain link gate in anything from full baseball uniforms to shorts and tank top shirts. Teams were formed at random, kind of like they were in the “old” days before everything was organized by well-meaning but over-zealous and over-protective parents. We played semi-real baseball for an hour or two, maybe four or five innings, and most importantly and perhaps just as much miraculously, until it was decided that to play as long as we did without anyone blowing out a knee or popping a hamstring or a button on his shirt was a streak of luck we probably shouldn’t press. After the game ended, we all gathered at the Village Barn in South Meriden owned by Pete Daniels, one of Platt’s all-time baseball talents. Pete treated the players to hot dogs, hamburgers and beer and a place to catch up with old friends, meet some new ones and reminisce about those days that are so fresh in our minds that we swore that they were just yesterday. Time flies. No, it disappears and reappears only through nostalgic stories and pictures and old newspaper accounts. When time reappears it comes back in full bloom. Herb Kenny and his scrapbook of memories from the first Platt teams provided some memories for those who lived the history and educated those who either forgot or were too young or, for that matter, not yet born in 1959 when the school opened its doors. I had never met Herb Kenny before but had known of him as a prolific basketball coach with national credentials from his many years at Wesleyan. I had competed against his son, Patrick, a terrific multi-sport athlete at Maloney. I didn’t know that Herb was the first varsity baseball coach at Platt. His book of black and white prints in pristine condition and well preserved newspaper clippings brought to life a long-ago era in this city’s rich sports history. There were articles reporting great games and individual performances from those early years but the headlines that caught my eye and my imagination were those that boasted attendance figures of 1,500 and 2,000 and more to see a Platt – Maloney baseball game. That got me thinking. What if we could fill the bleachers at Ceppa Field like that again, even just one more time? What if instead of a Platt baseball alumni game there was a Platt versus Maloney baseball alumni game? Use your imagination and think of the possibilities. Think big. We are a people who live for the days of our youth. We’ll sit around and talk about how the world has changed, and not for the better, since we were kids. We all have our version of the classic “I walked five miles to school uphill both ways.” We’re hungry for nostalgia and sports, local sports in particular, provides the perfect venue. Ever wonder why Old Timers Day at Yankee Stadium is so popular? Nostalgia. And it’s not just the players who are old timers. Can’t you just hear the grandfather in the stands tell his grandson how Whitey Ford was every bit as good as any of today’s pitchers? And he pitched every fourth day and pitched the whole game. And I’ll bet he walked five miles to school uphill both ways, too. And it only cost fifty cents to sit in the bleachers at old Yankee Stadium. Meriden has had a rich high school baseball tradition over the past half century. A number of players starred on the collegiate level. Several signed professional contracts. Platt won a state championship in 1986 and both schools provided talent for the Post 45 American Legion teams which were perennially one of New England’s best in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. It was also a mix of players that formed the nucleus of the Katz Sport Shop teams that competed so well for so long in the Greater Hartford Twilight League. The 50th anniversary of the opening of the current high schools is less than two years away in 2009. Is there a better occasion than that to celebrate that tradition? Like old timers day at Yankee Stadium, bring back as many players and coaches as possible from the past five decades. I know that many of them must still be within shouting distance – the Katz’s, the Hewitt’s, the Curry’s, the Bongiovanni’s (one in each dugout!) just to name a few. And the ones that live elsewhere? Track them down and invite them back just as you would any old friend. Dress them in replica Platt and Maloney baseball uniforms from the 1959 season for one more game in front of 1,500 or 2,000 or more spectators who themselves could recall rich memories of their own youth. Sounds corny, I know. But think of how you feel when you watch those corny movies, especially the one’s where middle-aged adults go back to the old high school to settle an old score. Hype it up. Get sponsorships. Charge admission. Maybe Herb Kenny is making out the Platt line up card. How about a dinner and auction the night before the game and a commemorative program highlighting 50 years of Meriden’s high school baseball history. Use the event to raise money for a good cause. Sure it would be a lot of work taking a lot of volunteers and time. But for a city that is in need of a winner, it would be worthwhile. And maybe in 2059, after another 50 years have vanished into thin air, this publication can run a story. MUSINGS by Ernie Larsen........ POSTAL BLUES The best thing about Meriden’s new Post Office - there is plenty of parking! To be fair, any business should be given some time to get its feet wet and not be reviewed on opening day; I certainly agree, however I’d heard, about 6 or 8 months ago, that the new facility, while having four retail counters, would remain at the same staffing level as the Colony Street office, 2 clerks most of the time, 3 maximum. I had to visit the new facility on May 7th, 2007, opening day, to check on my organizations’ P.O. Box. After receiving my new box key from the jovial clerk in the lobby, I had to do a mailing. This is where deja vu set in – there were about 10 people in line in front of me and when my number came up – 17 behind me. A friend of mine, just in front of me in line, was at one of the three windows open and after concluding his business the clerk put out the “next window please” sign and was off to wherever; the time was 12:00 noon straight up. You would think that during such a busy period the Postmaster or her designate would have someone fill in during the other clerk’s absence, or is that too logical a concept? Mr. Cannon of the USPS claimed, in a article in the local daily newspaper, that the person handing out P.O. box keys added to the unmanageable lines – hardly the case – key distribution was a totally separate operation not at all impeding those waiting in line to do business with a clerk. And now, a month or so later, the lines are still an annoyance, however the USPS higher-ups have added some information that makes you wonder why we have a new facility in the first place; there is a sign advocating the use of Wallingford’s ‘full service’ post office (is Meriden’s P.O. less than full-service?) and another sign advising those in line what retail outlets sell stamps. Boy, that’s convenient, eh? Our neighbor Southington, with half the population of Meriden, has 4 post offices – what’s with the USPS management – logistics are pretty clear, for its size, population wise, Meriden needs a FULL-SERVICE facility; someone isn’t getting it – maybe if some of the USPS higher-ups were to spend some time in line waiting to send a package, they’d receive an education in reality. While the new facility is an asset to Meriden, it appears that bureaucracy has again reared its ugly head negating the potential of the new facility with business as usual. NATURE AS A MIRROR By Dorothy Gonick ROSEMARY Favored herb of chefs, Symbol of fidelity, Plant of many uses. The tantalizing aroma wafting around the kitchen aroused anticipation for the meal to be served. The hint of rosemary in the lamb stew whetted our appetites. It also led us to wonder about the history of the herb. We discovered that Rosemary is an ancient herb and was found in Egyptian first century tombs. The Greeks believed it was a gift from Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty and entwined it in their hair. They put rosemary twigs in their hair while studying for examinations, believing it helped their memory. The French burned it in hospitals to thwart epidemics. Hungarians used it as a face wash to enhance beauty. The British wore it as necklaces to prevent colds. A Spanish legend relates that on the flight to Egypt, Mary placed her cloak over the rosemary bush and caused the white flowers to turn blue, giving it the name Rosemary. Today it is used in aromatherapy for soothing our nerves, and as an ingredient in perfumes. Cooks crush the silvery green needlelike leaves for use in seasoning foods, and to flavor wine and vinegars. Gardeners find it a natural insect repellant. Rosemary is related to mint and is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a deep-rooted plant, requiring a deep pot when used as an indoor plant. It needs a well-drained, rather poor soil and full sunshine to grow well. In warm climates the plant will grow for many years, adding loveliness of sight and scent to the garden. Through the ages, rosemary has been used in varied ways, each beneficial, and still giving us pleasure in its hardy growth. As a ‘mirror’, we each have varied ways of serving mankind, using our God-given talents, adding pleasure and well-being to our world. Discovering this information about Rosemary has whetted our appetites with knowledge of its use with many meats; whether lamb, chicken, beef or salmon and also potatoes. We are ready to satisfy our hunger and will place a pot of Rosemary as out centerpiece. Bon Appetite! Wild Flowers of Hubbard Park By Francis W. Lappert I must go back to my early teen years to describe the many wild flowers that grew in the park. There were two small streams that came from Meremere. reservoir and from some springs also. We called that one “Bee Hive Brook” because there was a stone structure at the edge of the swamp opposite Reservoir Ave. shaped like a bee hive. The other small stream on the west side of “Mirror Lake we called shady brook which came from springs in the forest. Both of these streams supported the park with a multitude of wild flowers. Listed among them were the “Adder Tongues which grew in profusion along the stream. Then there were the “Jack-in-the-Pulpits” which were also plentiful, also a white flower called “Blood Root” so called because when picked the stems juice was the color of blood. The yellow flower which grew right in the stream was called “Cow-Slip”. The flowers we liked the best were the purple “Lady Slippers” and the yellow variety. The purple ones grew under the pine and hemlock trees in the north of “Meremere” reservoir. The yellow variety grew on the hillsides between Hubbard Park and the reservoir. Today they are very scarce from over-picking and changes made in the park. There was one rare flower that grew up every year on the slope that was the dam for the reservoir, it was called “Dutch Mans Britches” as the flower which was white, resembled a line of britches hung out on a line. On the rock slides on both sides of the reservoir grew the multicolored “Columbines”, a very fragile flower. One of the first flower to appear in the spring was the “Mayflower”, some were blue others a shade of pink. My sister Rose was always the first person to find them and bring them to the local newspaper. She always knew when they were ready to bloom. On the north of the lake on the sunny hillsides were wild “Geraniums”, blue “Violets” and yellow ones which were quite rare. There was also the “Blue Gention” and one called “Wind Flower”. There were also the flowering bushes that were quite beautiful. “Honeysuckle” which grew among the rocks near the reservoir, “Mountain Laurel” which was plentiful along the road leading to the “Castle”. Along the brook coming from the reservoir were numerous “Pussy Willows”. The parks undeveloped forest land has numerous white “Dogwood” trees which are in full blossom at this time. Most of the flowers which I have mentioned are long gone due to the development and improvements made in the park. Where the swimming pool is located we used to play ball in the meadow that was there. Most of the youth in our neighborhood on Reservoir Ave. learned to swim in “Mirror Lake” as it was clean and not polluted. Now the ducks and geese have taken over. I recently received a letter from my sister in California, Rose Lappert Clark, and she listed a number of wild flowers that I had forgotten to mention. Among those are as follows: Solomon’s Seal – Along the rocky ledges Saxifrage – Along the rocky ledges Blue Flag – Swampy areas White Violets – Swampy areas White Daisy – Open Field Buttercup – Open Field Wild Aster – Open Field Wild Rose – Open Field Black Eyed Susan – Open Field Snap Dragon – Open Field Clematis – Open Field Anemone – Open Field Red Trillium – Open Woodland Myrtle – Open Woodland Indian Pipes – Open Woodland Added to the fifteen kinds I listed it makes quite an array of wild flowers that once grew in the park. I don’t believe there is any other park in Connecticut that can claim such a variety. I challenge anyone to roam through the park and name as many as we both have. ISAAC CHAUNCEY LEWIS By Ken Cowing Isaac C. Lewis’s immigrant ancestor, William Lewis of Llandow Wales was born January 3, 1594. As a member of the Braintree Co, he arrived in Boston on the ship Lion September 16, 1632. He became a member of Reverend Thomas Hooker’s congregation and left Massachusetts Bay Colony with them for Connecticut in 1636. He was one of the founders of Connecticut Colony. He died in Farmington, Connecticut August 2, 1673 at the age of 89. He left many descendents which included farmers, blacksmiths, merchants and innkeepers. The Elm Tree Inn in Farmington, an inn in Wallingford, a hotel in Meriden and the Central Tavern in Meriden were owned by some of his family. When the industrial Revolution began many of them used their skills successfully in various manufacturing enterprises. One of them was Isaac C. Lewis, a member of the eighth generation of this Lewis family in New England. He was born in Wallingford on October 19, 1812, the son of Isaac Lewis (NMI) who was a merchant and hotel keeper in Meriden. He served Meriden as its first Town Clerk and Postmaster from 1806 until his death in 1823. The formal education of Isaac C. Lewis ended at the age of eleven when his parents died. His informal education continued for the rest of his life whenever time and books became available to him. He worked as a farm boy for local farmers at a wage of 25 cents a week. It was a seven day week with Sunday mornings allowed for church services. Included with his wages were his meals and a place to sleep, which was usually in one of the barns. He later worked for his grandfather, Jared Lewis who owned an inn and a general store in Wallingford. After his grandfather’s death, he worked for his brother, Patrick Lewis, who owned the Central Tavern and general store in Meriden. His career in manufacturing began at the age of fifteen when he accepted a position with his brother Patrick Lewis’ firm, Lewis & Holt, where he was employed as a lath operator. In 1834, at the age of twenty-two, he opened his own shop which became the I.C. Lewis Co. This was the beginning of a long productive career in manufacturing. Experience was gained by him prior to this with partnerships with other craftsmen such as George Cowles, Lemuel J. Curtis and Daniel Wells. In 1852, the Lewis Co. became part of the Meriden Britannia Co. which included companies owned by George R. Curtis, Lemuel J. Curtis, Horace C. Wilcox and W.W.Lyman. Lewis became President of the largest silver companies in the world. With practical experience combined with a “hands on knowledge” he led this company forward to the eventual organization that later became the International Silver Co. which was formed in 1898, five years after his death. His interest in the City of Meriden was evident when you review his service to the community. His public service was as follows – Justice of the Peace in 1856, 1858 and 1860, Alderman in the Meriden City Council in 1867, Mayor of Meriden in 1870, a member of the Connecticut State Legislature in 1848, 1853 and 1866, President of the Meriden Britannia Co., The Meriden Trust & Safe Deposit Co. and Miller Bros. Cutlery. Director of the Meriden National Bank, The Meriden Savings Bank, the Home Club, Wilcox Silver Plate Col, Edward Miller Co. and the Wilcox & White Organ Co. Isaac C. Lewis was described “as one of Meriden’s most liberal philanthropists and the extent of his private charities has never been known, so quietly have they been made”. In addition to these charities, his support of his church, St. Paul’s Universalist Church, was well known. He contributed a major portion of the construction cost of $100,000 for the building and established a trust fund for its use. The new organ was also his gift and several other features were secured there as a result of his generosity. In 1888 Lewis built a large business block at the corner of East main and Veterans Streets at a cost of $70,000. On October 21, 1889, he deeded the building to the City of Meriden for use of the Meriden City Missions which was the predecessor of the Public Health and Visiting Nurse Association and the Meriden City Welfare Department. It was called “magnificent” in a newspaper editorial on Monday October 21, 1889. Mr. Lewis specified that the building be called the City Mission Building. The building was later known as the Century building when it became privately owned. It was demolished by the city of Meriden in December 1883, one hundred years after the death of Isaac C. Lewis on December 7, 1893. Among Lewis’ concerns was the health and welfare of the local citizenry, especially of women and children. He was a staunch advocate of woman’s suffrage. “Votes for women” he said, is a cause that ought to prosper and is bound to succeed”. He was correct on both scores, but he did not live to see the ratification of the Women’s Suffrage Amendment. Reared as a Democrat, Lewis became a follower of Abraham Lincoln and turned Republican during the Civil War, but in 1883, on the sole issue of temperance, he joined the Prohibition Party, influenced, perhaps by the activities of the local Woman’s Christian Temperance Union. The personal life of I.C. Lewis was certainly conservative and traditional for nineteenth century Connecticut. He was married at the age of twenty-four and he and his wife, Harriet raised six children. The marriage was for a lifetime – over fifty years. His last and permanent home was built in 1868. The Connecticut Historical Commission described it; “Historical associations and high architectural quality make the Lewis house one of the most important Victorian buildings in Meriden.” When the Lewis family sold the mansion it then served as a veteran’s club house and later a funeral home. Today it has a new owner. The Leis mansion is being converted into an office building. Although both Isaac C. Lewis and George R. Curtis have been dead for many years, their names remain in this part of Meriden. They both served Meriden as Mayor and also served in many civic activities in the city. They were members of silver manufacturers that made Meriden known as the “Silver City”. The Curtis Cultural Center was the original Meriden Library and was a gift from Augusta Munson Curtis in memory of her husband George R. Curtis and daughter Agnes D.C. Squire. Today the two buildings located across the street from City Hall now represent the best of Meriden’s past and a promise for Meriden’s future. Vietnam Memorial Moving Wall was in Hamden – June 14 – 17, 2007 By Ruth Miglierina Petrucci At 10:30AM on Wednesday June 13th the Vietnam Moving Wall arrived in Hamden with a motorcycle escort. I was fortunate and honored to be there with many others to greet them. The ceremonies scheduled for the four days were emotional but comforting and wonderful to be a part of. At 7PM on Thursday, June 14th there was an opening ceremony with Presentation of the Colors, Benediction, blessing of Sacred Ground, Pledge of Allegiance followed by the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America. Speeches were made by our Mayor Craig Henrici, Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, and Connecticut Veterans Commissioner, Linda Schwartz. Members of the soldiers’ family placed a flag and rose at the loved ones names, I was honored to place each at the name of my brother. The Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops also helped in placing the roses and flags. The ceremony ended with a gun volley followed by Taps and Evening Colors. Each day there were ceremonies, Fallen Warrior Ceremony by the V.V.A. Chapter 251, Evergreen Assembly Rainbow for Girls Flag Ceremony and two Candlelight Ceremonies – POW/MIA also by V.V.A. Chapter 251. The closing ceremony was Sunday at 3:00PM when the names of 612 Connecticut soldiers were read who were dilled in Vietnam. Among the readers were three Gold Star Sisters who read the names of their brothers, Robert Leo Miglierina brother of Ruth Miglierina Petrucci, Richard Nicholas DeAngelis brother of Rosemary DeAngelis and Edward Kenneth Duel brother of Barbara Tito. The wall was open 24 hours a day for viewing for the constant flow of visitors who came to pay their respect. It is something that every man, woman and child should make an effort to see and pay their respect for the 58,283 Americans who unselfishly gave their lives for their country so that we can live free and do the daily things we sometimes take for granted. I know when the wall left on Monday part of me went with it. Bonfires for the Fourth By Rose Zocco-Cignatta I never understood the significance of the big Fourth of July bonfires in the middle of the street but it was something I had gotten used to seeing every year. You could see bonfires ablaze on streets all around; it was our way of celebrating. The gathering of any scraps of wood was a year-long project, we confiscated anything burnable off rubbish piles, retrieved wooden crates from storefronts, and collected anything we could use, even broom handles. Spring was when the momentum really picked up with serious commitment to storing anything we got into cellars; landlords were part of the entire scheme and neighbors all pitched in to add things to the pile. The competition was on and the streets known to have had the last biggest bonfire had to uphold their position each year. We looked to this spectacular event with great anticipation as families would come out to witness it as soon as dusk appeared. We had waited all year and enjoyed front seats to the whole fireworks, only this was real fire. You could watch the cops days on end searching for the stored wood and bribing the kids to tell them where it was but that never worked, and the big bonfires tall as buildings always took place as usual. Gasoline was poured on the wood to start it and it lasted all night until morning. Fire engines would come and go putting it out, but the process would start all over again as soon as they left; we actually applauded the fire starters and egged them on. The hot glow lighted everything and every face around, it was the best display of fireworks I have ever seen even until this day. The multi-colored kaleidoscope seemed to brighten our lives. We had no money to waste on other kinds of fireworks like firecrackers and sparklers. Patriotism and honor for your country by hanging flags in your apartment windows was very popular, so there were many of them. Some were hung along with small banners with stars on them. If the star was blue a family had someone serving in the military of our country; some had more than one star. If the star was a gold one it meant the serviceman in that family had died for his country. I remember how proud families were to hang their banners in the windows; but it was sad when the color of the star changed from blue to gold and the whole neighborhood felt the loss because, we had all grown up together in the street which was our community. New York City was a great place to grow up in and know your neighbors and their families. This is my third essay to your paper which I enjoy very much. It is great to have “good news” around and you certainly give us that. Much good wishes to your continued big future! Thank you---Rose Cignatta Conversation in the Park By Ken Cowing “Hey, Bill, how the hell are ya?” “Joe, what are you doin’ besides sittin’ on a park bench?” “Here, park your carcass, Bill. There’s plenty of room. I’m just resting my weary bones after a long walk. It’s nice out here – especially in June and the view is always great.” “Joe, you’re right and the old places haven’t changed much. Well not too much.” “The traffic is different, Bill, but the old hangouts are still here. That ma and pa grocery is new. But it sells food that we can’t eat.” “I remember, Joe, when it was Doc Ryan’s Smoke shop. Your could buy almost anything there.” “But, Bill, your old man and mine told us to stay away from there. You know Doc had a side line. The cops knew he was a bookie but they never bothered him. That tavern next door is where we met when we returned home from that “all expense paid trip” the government gave us.” “Joe, it seems like a long time ago but it won’t be tomorrow. We have a funeral – remember?” “Well anyway, Bill, now we can just sit here and watch all these foreign cars go by. Who the hell won the war anyway? Them or us?” “We won the first war and now they may be winnin’ the second one Joe.” “Hey Bill! Get a load of that! That girl walking down the street. It looks like she is going to lose her pants!” “Joe, that’s the style. She just wants to show her tattoo. OK, enough about clothes.” “Let’s go into the tavern and have a beer, Bill. Harry Orlando is on furlough from Iraq . I asked him to meet us there. His tour must be different from ours. You know they are just a bunch of kids.” “Joe, that’s what they said about us.”