TRAIL OF TERROR UPDATE
Well its time again for another Boo Crew Review from the Trail of Terror in Wallingford. It's been quite a while since I've had time to actually sit down and write something, so since we are approaching 80 days until we open I figured it was time. The Boo Crew is getting a late start this year so we hope everything goes as planned.
2007 was another successful season; we were able to give the Red Cross $100,000 for the second year in a row. The lines were quite long last year but we are trying to help by offering a timed speed-pass, available only online. I hope it works. Last year we had people come from every town in CT and 14-15 states. It’s pretty incredible, traveling all that way just to be scared. Lets hope the gas prices don’t scare them away.
The Boo Crew has been working on their characters, just waiting for their first victim to enter into their scene. I pity the first few groups. This year we are having workshops with special guests coming in to help train the actors on makeup, acting techniques and costuming. I really believe the actors are what makes any even of this type a success. The scene is only as good as its actors.
This year we have had the privilege of having a great group of high school students come down to the Trail to help us out. They are called CREW (Community Revitalization Efforts of Wallingford) and they are lead by two pretty incredible teachers from Lyman Hall and Sheehan, Jenn Castelli and Mike Tyrrell. For those of you who have not heard about them they spend time helping various local organizations and their year is highlighted by traveling to New Orleans during spring vacation, working to help the victims of hurricane Katrina. What an awesome group. If you would like to follow their story, visit this website... nolacrew.wikispaces.com .
That’s it for now, we'll be open soon. Check out our website for information. www.trailofterror.com
Wayne "Spookologist" Barneschi
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52nd Annual Chicken Barbecue
The Wallingford Rotary Club will hold its 52nd Annual Chicken Barbecue on the grounds of Gaylord Rehabilitation Center Wednesday, August 6th from 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The menu will include barbecued chicken, native corn on the cob, corn bread, cold soft drinks, and fresh baked cookies. A children's menu of hot dogs, potato chips, a cold soft drink, and cookies will also be available. Music will be provided by the R-Band under the direction of Pat Lignelli and numerous children activities will be available as well. Throughout the event there will be a "hay ride" and also the opportunity to bid on numerous Silent Auction baskets. The F.O.R.D. Classic Car Club will have numerous antique cars on display. Tickets are available from any Rotary Club member or at Gallagher Travel Shoppe, 369 Center Street, Wallingford. Adult tickets are $12.00 and children tickets are $6.00. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club. Additional information can be obtained by calling Craig Fishbein at 203-265-2895 or Roz Gallagher 203-265-2856.
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FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE OPENING IN NEW LOCATION
Over the past six weeks, a hard-working crew from the Friends of the Library has moved over 10,000 books and the bookcases to put them in from their old location in downtown Meriden to new quarters at 35 West Main Street, a block away. This monumental move included the re-evaluation and winnowing of the existing stock of books and addition of .many new titles for a top-grade offering of first rate, gently used books.
Book lovers are invited to come in and check out the collection starting Monday, July 14, when the new store will open its doors for business. Store hours will remain the same: Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, the bookstore will be one of the sites included in the Thursday evening Art Walks around downtown which are currently being planned.
Book prices will remain the same: $2 for hard covers and $1 for paperbacks with trade paperbacks selling at $2 each and the newest titles and special collection books selling for a bit more.
As soon as the store opens for business, book donations will once again be accepted at the Meriden Public Library. Only newer, good quality books are wanted and no books should be brought to the store.
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AN INVITATION TO ARTISANS, CRAFT PEOPLE AND SCULPTORS FOR
CELEBRATE WALLINGFORD 2008
Wallingford Center, Inc. is inviting artists to participate in Celebrate Wallingford 2008 which will take place the weekend of October 4th and 5th. The 22nd annual street festival will be located at Fishbein Park and surrounding neighborhood in downtown Wallingford. Celebrate Wallingford 2008 applicants will be juried by a select group of professional artisans to provide the public with the finest and highest quality art and crafts. For information and applications call Wallingford Center, Inc, 203-284-1807 or by email wallingfordcenter@sbcglobal.net.
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The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2008 Gardener’s Market
Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 12th to Sept 13th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, unique crafts, baked goods, and special cooked treats from Bob and Carole Golitko. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. If you wish to be a vendor, please contact Ellie Tessmer, Market Manager at 203-269-2653 or email at swcd43emt@sbcglobal.net.
We are looking for backyard gardeners to share their produce with their own booth, consignment or donations to the Wallingford Garden Club.
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The Meriden Humane Society Desperately Needs Your Help!!
The Meriden Humane Society is seeking the public's help to help care for dozens of cats and kittens removed from a Meriden home several weeks ago. Many of the cats are sick with upper respiratory infections, so the vet bills are adding up very quickly.
Last year the Meriden Humane Society placed 191 dogs and 863 cats into loving homes. They are privately run relying on only private donations. Without the help of the public, they would never be able to take care of so many animals.
They are seeking cat food, wet cat food (no fish), cat litter, linens, towels, and sheets. And most of all, they are seeking cash donations to help defer the cost of the astronomical vet bills. They are located at 311 Murdoch Avenue, Meriden, CT 06450.
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Dear Friends, We could all use some good news about now. So, let’s help our friends and neighbors come together as an organization that will give a real boost to the community! The Meriden ArtsTrust, Inc. and the Zach Weston/Walter Q. Peabody Foundation are 'drumming up" a new community initiative and we hope we can count on your support.
“The Crescendo Committee to bring a new symphony to Meriden", or "The Crescendo Committee" for short, of which I am a part, is a group of musicians and non-musicians who are bringing a new Symphony Orchestra to Meriden. Through e-mail, the area newspapers, posters and word-of-mouth we are contacting everyone who wants to have a lively and active Symphony to once again bring Orchestra music back to Meriden.
Please send this e-mail to anyone who you think would have an interest in helping up bring together adult musicians from age 20 and up who wish to spend quality time together with other musicians and bring a civic orchestra to Meriden.
We all miss “Tchicken and Tchaikovsky”-we all miss the wonderful sounds and lively shared experiences when we go to a Symphony concert.
Musicians- if you're practicing now - why not rehearse?
A benefit concert by Mr. Christopher White, organist, will be announced soon. Please support this wonderful cause and pledge your support for a New Meriden Symphony by purchasing a ticket and attending what will be a great concert and reception.
Thanks for your time, and keep an eye out for the advance publicity!
Please contact meridenartstrust@yahoo.com for more information or call Mrs. Katrina Axelrod at (203) 235-7445, as soon as possible. Thanks in advance for your help!
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Emergency Medical Technician Course
Hunter’s Ambulance Service, Vehicle and Education Resource Center,
474 W. Main St., Meriden. Classes will start on September 2, 2008 until end of January 2009. They are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Additional Saturday sessions are planned. Students must be over 18 years of age or older. Anyone over 16 but under 18 must have a signed parental permission form. (Available first night of class). Class size is limited to 30 students. For more information please call
(203) 514-5142.
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10th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic
The 10th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 13th at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford beginning with registration and a full American breakfast set for 7:30 A.M. A scramble shotgun start will be at 8:30 A.M. All proceeds will benefit the club’s special education scholarship fund. The $125.00 fee includes 18 holes w/cart, tee package, cash awards, pro shop gift certificates, $1000 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685.
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Americana-Folk and Folk Rock DJ's Wanted on WESU FM For Fall Radio Training
WESU FM's Folk Music Department is looking for Community Volunteers who have an understanding of Americana-Folk and -Folk-Rock Music with or without Community Radio experience.
Established in 1939, WESU is one of the oldest non-commercial radio stations in the United States. Now, in 2006, WESU broadcasts at the frequency of 88.1 megahertz from it's 1500-watt transmitter located atop the Wesleyan Science Tower. WESU offers an interesting mix of Public affairs and free-form music programming to discerning listeners at throughout the Connecticut River Valley and beyond.
Volunteer Training is provided in the Fall of 2008 for those interested in learning about Community Radio.
Must go through Community Radio Training ,Internships and Radio Community Service .
For more information contact Ken Folk and Triple A MD at WESU FM 860-685-7703 and leave your name phone number and contact information.
To listen to WESU FM locally go to WESU FM 88.1 and online at www.wesufm.org
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This September 5th, 6th and 7th The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund will hold its twenty-second 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-five 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.
On Friday, October 14, 1983 my heart was ripped right from my chest. My son, Brian, age 7, had died in a fire. In a single moment, I went from being the farther of a bright and beautiful child to childless. My wife Roberta and I had no local families, and we were in total despair. We did in deed have to take the long journey through the valley of grief. As I look back from the edge of the brighter side, I realize it is possible for life to go on.
In the beginning, Brian was in my thoughts every waking moment. Today, only things that would remind me of him bring me to think of him. Since his loss, we have had a daughter, Elizabeth, who is now twenty-three. As a family, we speak of him often, but our life continues today as we are now, and not dwelling in the past. It almost seems callous, but it is true, life does go on.
Shortly after our loss, my most difficult question was, do your have any kids or how many children do you have? Oh, what a great chance to dump your grief on someone else’s shoulders. Of course if you don’t mention the child you lost you would be guilty of denying their existence on this earth. How do I answer that question twenty- five years later? That depends on who asked and why. It’s usually small talk from someone who really doesn’t know you. As a driving instructor, my students frequently ask me if I have children. I do tell them I have a daughter who is a college student. This is very relevant to my relationship with students. I generally will not mention the child I lost years before they were born because it’s not relevant, and my relationship with them doesn’t need emotions.
So much has changed over the past quarter century that I am not the same person I was when I lost Brian. Life does go on, and I have to live out the one I have now, even with the fond memories of the past. I look to the future when my daughter graduates from college, enters the career of her choice, gets married, and gives me grandchildren I can spoil and send back home with her. Don’t worry, I will tell my grandchildren about the uncle they never met.
Michael G. Ash
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WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA
AMERICAN RED CROSS LIFEGUARD TRAINING COURSE- INCLUDES FIRST AID & CPR/FPR/AED
Participants must be 15 years of age and able to swim 500 yards. Pre-test date—Monday, Aug 11 3 PM- be prepared to swim
Class dates- August 11,12,13,14,15,18,19 from 3-8PM *(times may be adjusted as class progresses.)
Fee: Wallingford YMCA members: $235 Program Members: $270 Fee includes textbook, pocket mask, and certification cards Call 203 269 4497 x 20 for more information and to register.
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WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA WATER SAFETY POSTER CONTEST WINNERS.
This past June the Wallingford Family YMCA presented a Water Safety program to all the Wallingford Public Schools 3rd graders. The students were then invited to create a Water Safety Poster. The YMCA selected the following students as their school’s winner: Karli Scall- Cook Hill, Samantha Alvarado- Moses Y Beach, Jane Marr- Rock Hill, Mercedes C., Mackenzie Wilson- Highland, Rachel Mule- Pond Hill, Hunter Komm. Each of the winners received a certificate for 1 session of free swim lessons at the Wallingford Family YMCA. The posters are currently on display at the Y.
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Village at Kensington Place Hosts Swinging Summer Concerts
MERIDEN, Conn.: The public is invited to a free “Swinging Summer Concert Series” beginning Wednesday, July 23 at the Village at Kensington Place, 511 Kensington Ave., Meriden, Conn. The evening kicks off with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. and continues at 7 p.m. with live a cappella music from the Connecticut Yankee Chorus.
The concert series concludes on Monday, Aug. 18 with the Cool Cats. Refreshments will be served at 6 p.m., and the New Orleans-style Dixieland swing band performs at 6:30 p.m.
The concerts are free and open to the public. Please RSVP by calling The Village at Kensington Place at 203-235-0181.
The Village at Kensington Place provides independent living, assisted living, and and the Harbor Program, which provides specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.
The community is operated by Benchmark Assisted Living, based in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Benchmark is the largest privately held provider of senior living services in the Northeast and is committed to setting the standard of excellence in senior housing. The company develops, owns and manages an array of senior living communities which offer independent living, assisted living, and specialized assisted living for the memory impaired. Benchmark operates 43 communities in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and Maine. Visit Benchmark at www.benchmarkquality.com.
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Meriden ArtsTrust
Just a quick note to all-
We could all use some good news, well, this is certainly good news!
The "Crescendo Committee to bring a symphony to Meriden", ("The Crescendo Committee" for short) is a group of musicians and non-musicians who have dedicated themselves to bringing a new symphony to Meriden. You are very much invited to join!
Very exciting good news!!!
The Crescendo Committee will host its first Benefit Concert and Reception with Christopher White and Friends, an evening of Organ and Piano performances (more people may sign on, too!)
Saturday, August 16th from 7-9 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, at the corner of Hanover and Cook, 164 Hanover Street in Meriden.
Tickets are available from this e-mail, (meridenartstrust@yahoo.com), Crescendo Committee members, posters will be going up soon. Tickets will be available at the door.
The Crescendo Committee is open to musicians and non-musicians alike who wish to bring a new symphony to Meriden. Membership is free to all and you are all invited to join.
Our first organizational meeting will be announced soon. You do not have to be at the meetings to join. The first meeting will be at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center. I'll keep you informed. The Crescendo Committee newsletter, "Quick Notes" may be found at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, and, I hope, on-line, on the Meriden Arts Council website, soon.
For our local friends- there is a fine concert happening today at 2 at the Augusta - two brass quintets! I hope to see you there!
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“Clean Sweep Sale”
Meriden –Come join the Arts and Crafts Association/Gallery 53 for a dual event – a “Clean Sweep Sale” on Friday, August 1 thru Sunday, 3rd and “sweep-up” some great bargains on original paintings, craft items, pottery, jewelry, prints, and more, at very reasonable prices. On Sunday Aug. 3rd join us for SUNDAY IN THE CITY - an informal gathering – for free snacks and conversation from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm.
The Arts and Crafts Association of Meriden/Gallery 53 has been supporting artists and artisans and serving the community for over 100 years and needs your help to raise funds to continue the many educational programs they sponsor. The Gallery will be open for this special event from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
We are also in need of donations and will be receiving on July 22 – 30th from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. Remember, all donations are tax deductible!
The Gallery is easy to reach from I-91 and I-84. There is free and ample parking space available across the street. Visit our website: www.gallery53.org or call (203) 235-5347 for directions.
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Temple Beth David’s Shabbat in the Park
Temple Beth David of Cheshire will hold outdoor services on Friday, August 29, at Lock 12 Historic Park on Route 42 in Cheshire, beginning with a picnic supper at 6:30 p.m. and followed by Friday evening Sabbath services. Members of the public are welcome to join us for an informal and pleasant evening. For more information regarding the Shabbat in the park or Temple Beth David, call the Temple office at (203) 272-0037.
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Adoption: How to get Started!
Sponsored by: Child Adoption Resource Association A non-profit full service adoption agency Located in New London serving all of Connecticut
Wednesday August 6, 20087:00 p.m. Free Informational Sessions for People Interested in Finding Out more about Adoption held at three Connecticut locations: Borders Books and Music Seattle's Best Cafe
470 Lewis Ave .Meriden, CT 06451 Phone: 203-237-5510
A CARA worker will explain different types of adoption and offer a step-by-step outline to adopting a child. Project Connecticut's Child, a grant funded program seeking to find families to adopt children from CT state foster care at no or minimum cost, will be presented. Participants will leave with a folder of resources to help guide families, couples, or individuals wishing to adopt.
For more information, contact CARA www.adoptacarakid.org 860-444-0553
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The Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra Young musicians--e-mail to audition today! meridenartstrust@yahoo.com
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2008 Gardener’s Market
The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2008 Gardener’s Market Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 12th to Sept 13th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, unique crafts, baked items and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. Check the website at www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for detailed information. Special vendors for Sewn Crafts: Amber Billings with tote bags; Marge Dubue with Quilts and Blankets; Nancy Eddy of Catnip Toys; Mollie Elmer of 2 Friends Quilting with small quilts, runners, pillow cases; Kristin Giordano of K A Knits with crocheted items; Nancy Paull with small quilts and aprons. Special Paper Crafts: Doll Barnes with Paper Sculpture greeting cards; Linda Houle with greeting/note cards; Frank Totz of Paper Tole Creations with 3-D Artwork. Jewelry Vendors: Christina Bracale of Little Trend Setters with handmade jewelry for children; Gerarda McIntyre of Sparkles by Sam
with Swarovski crystal jewelry; Amanda Proscino of Accessories Aesthetic with jewelry kits; Rudy Raccio with jewelry; Kathryn Robinson of Accessorize with guitar pic jewelry, boxes and beaded flowers. Artistic Craft Vendors: Lynn Bassett of A Desire to Inspire with hand painted crafts: wood, slate, terra cotta; Rosemarie Bonito of Garden Emporium with garden theme gifts; Diane and Larry Bradley of The Homemaker with crafts and florals; Christina Carta of Tiny Blooms with girls hair accessories; Beverly
Keener with mini pottery w/dried arrangements; Francine LaFontaine with matted prints & cards; Rose & Tom Marano of Blossom Blessings with Floral designs, wreaths and swags; Ailyn Urzua-Geghan of Ecolife with nutrition products: home and skin care.
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Call for Meriden Area Artists...The Main ARTery, Meriden's Main Street Celebrations of the arts sponsored by the Meriden Arts Council. Fine Art Show & Sale Thursday, October 2, 2008 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Meriden Courthouse Plaza. Along with a Wine Tasting hosted byValencia Liquor and a Gourmet Chef Demonstration/Food Tasting sponsored by The Drust Family Shop-Rite. For a prospectus or more information, please contact Lynn Fisher at 203-235-6270 orinfo@meridenartscouncil.org. Open to all Meriden Fine Artists working in the mediums of Oils,Watercolors, Gouache, Egg Tempera, Pastels/Oil Pastels, Textile/Fabric, Photography, Sculpture, Graphics (charcoal, etching, woodcuts, silkscreen, intaglio, original illustration in traditional mediums such as ink or graphite, etc.).Work may be traditional or non-objective. Entries must be artist’s own work.
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Attention Retirees!
It’s almost that time of the year again…BACK TO SCHOOL TIME! Being retired, this probably doesn’t affect you that much. But back to school time also means that the Senior Buddy Readers program is beginning to sign up volunteers for the 2008-2009 school years. “What is Senior Buddy Readers,” you ask? It is an intergenerational literacy program where retirees volunteer to help first and second graders improve their reading skills. Last year, Senior Buddy Readers celebrated its sixth year, with seventy two volunteers helping over two hundred children in five Meriden elementary schools. So if you are a retiree who has one hour a week to share with a child, don’t you think it’s time to volunteer as a Senior Buddy Reader? For more information or to sign up, please contact David Radcliffe, Director of Meriden Children First Initiative located at the Meriden Public Library (203) 630-3566. Or you can check out the Senior Buddy Readers link at Children First’s website www.meridenchildrenfirst.org. Make a difference in the life of a child…become a Senior Buddy Reader!
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WalkCT Family Hike FREE!
Saturday, 8/30, 10:00 a.m.; Letterboxing in the Cockaponset State Forest, Haddam; Ages 4 years+ Clue detectives unite! Join us for a fun-filled adventure of following clues, searching for letterboxes, and enjoying the sights and sounds of summer in the forest. What secrets might the forest share with us? We’ll look for old stone steps, swamps and ledges, and a once active charcoal mound. Bring your own letterbox stamp and notepad if you have it; if not, we'll have enough for you to share. Directions: Route 9 to exit 8 - Beaver Meadow Road. Turn left and first right onto Weiss Road to the end; right onto Filley Road; pass under highway where it turns into a forest road; first right onto Jericho Road; go ~200 yards on left is 2nd sandpit with parking area.
What are WalkCT Family Hikes?
Bring the kids! Feel the fresh air and enjoy quality time outdoors together. Family Hikes, led by trained Family Hike Leaders, are part of Connecticut Forest & Park Association's initiative, WalkConnecticut the trail to health and happiness. Family Hikes are free as a public service to the children and families of Connecticut. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. Locations are subject to change; call CFPA at (860) 346-2372 and visit www.ctwoodlands.org <http://www.ctwoodlands.org/> for additional Family Hikes. Babies in backpacks welcome. To ensure a safe and enjoyable time:1. Bring water, snack, and your excitement2. Leave pets at home3. Wear sturdy shoes4. Remember to bring your parents and caregivers.Join us for adventure along the trails, held throughout Connecticut the last weekend each month.____________________________________________________________________________________
TRAIL OF TERROR UPDATE
Well its time again for another Boo Crew Review from the Trail of Terror in Wallingford. It's been quite a while since I've had time to actually sit down and write something, so since we are approaching 80 days until we open I figured it was time. The Boo Crew is getting a late start this year so we hope everything goes as planned.
2007 was another successful season; we were able to give the Red Cross $100,000 for the second year in a row. The lines were quite long last year but we are trying to help by offering a timed speed-pass, available only online. I hope it works. Last year we had people come from every town in CT and 14-15 states. It’s pretty incredible, traveling all that way just to be scared. Lets hope the gas prices don’t scare them away.
The Boo Crew has been working on their characters, just waiting for their first victim to enter into their scene. I pity the first few groups. This year we are having workshops with special guests coming in to help train the actors on makeup, acting techniques and costuming. I really believe the actors are what makes any even of this type a success. The scene is only as good as its actors.
This year we have had the privilege of having a great group of high school students come down to the Trail to help us out. They are called CREW (Community Revitalization Efforts of Wallingford) and they are lead by two pretty incredible teachers from Lyman Hall and Sheehan, Jenn Castelli and Mike Tyrrell. For those of you who have not heard about them they spend time helping various local organizations and their year is highlighted by traveling to New Orleans during spring vacation, working to help the victims of hurricane Katrina. What an awesome group. If you would like to follow their story, visit this website... nolacrew.wikispaces.com .
That’s it for now, we'll be open soon. Check out our website for information. www.trailofterror.com
Wayne "Spookologist" Barneschi
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52nd Annual Chicken Barbecue
The Wallingford Rotary Club will hold its 52nd Annual Chicken Barbecue on the grounds of Gaylord Rehabilitation Center Wednesday, August 6th from 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The menu will include barbecued chicken, native corn on the cob, corn bread, cold soft drinks, and fresh baked cookies. A children's menu of hot dogs, potato chips, a cold soft drink, and cookies will also be available. Music will be provided by the R-Band under the direction of Pat Lignelli and numerous children activities will be available as well. Throughout the event there will be a "hay ride" and also the opportunity to bid on numerous Silent Auction baskets. The F.O.R.D. Classic Car Club will have numerous antique cars on display. Tickets are available from any Rotary Club member or at Gallagher Travel Shoppe, 369 Center Street, Wallingford. Adult tickets are $12.00 and children tickets are $6.00. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Wallingford Foundation, the charitable arm of the Wallingford Rotary Club. Additional information can be obtained by calling Craig Fishbein at 203-265-2895 or Roz Gallagher 203-265-2856.
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FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE OPENING IN NEW LOCATION
Over the past six weeks, a hard-working crew from the Friends of the Library has moved over 10,000 books and the bookcases to put them in from their old location in downtown Meriden to new quarters at 35 West Main Street, a block away. This monumental move included the re-evaluation and winnowing of the existing stock of books and addition of .many new titles for a top-grade offering of first rate, gently used books.
Book lovers are invited to come in and check out the collection starting Monday, July 14, when the new store will open its doors for business. Store hours will remain the same: Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, the bookstore will be one of the sites included in the Thursday evening Art Walks around downtown which are currently being planned.
Book prices will remain the same: $2 for hard covers and $1 for paperbacks with trade paperbacks selling at $2 each and the newest titles and special collection books selling for a bit more.
As soon as the store opens for business, book donations will once again be accepted at the Meriden Public Library. Only newer, good quality books are wanted and no books should be brought to the store.
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AN INVITATION TO ARTISANS, CRAFT PEOPLE AND SCULPTORS FOR
CELEBRATE WALLINGFORD 2008
Wallingford Center, Inc. is inviting artists to participate in Celebrate Wallingford 2008 which will take place the weekend of October 4th and 5th. The 22nd annual street festival will be located at Fishbein Park and surrounding neighborhood in downtown Wallingford. Celebrate Wallingford 2008 applicants will be juried by a select group of professional artisans to provide the public with the finest and highest quality art and crafts. For information and applications call Wallingford Center, Inc, 203-284-1807 or by email wallingfordcenter@sbcglobal.net.
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The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2008 Gardener’s Market
Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 12th to Sept 13th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, unique crafts, baked goods, and special cooked treats from Bob and Carole Golitko. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. If you wish to be a vendor, please contact Ellie Tessmer, Market Manager at 203-269-2653 or email at swcd43emt@sbcglobal.net.
We are looking for backyard gardeners to share their produce with their own booth, consignment or donations to the Wallingford Garden Club.
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The Meriden Humane Society Desperately Needs Your Help!!
The Meriden Humane Society is seeking the public's help to help care for dozens of cats and kittens removed from a Meriden home several weeks ago. Many of the cats are sick with upper respiratory infections, so the vet bills are adding up very quickly.
Last year the Meriden Humane Society placed 191 dogs and 863 cats into loving homes. They are privately run relying on only private donations. Without the help of the public, they would never be able to take care of so many animals.
They are seeking cat food, wet cat food (no fish), cat litter, linens, towels, and sheets. And most of all, they are seeking cash donations to help defer the cost of the astronomical vet bills. They are located at 311 Murdoch Avenue, Meriden, CT 06450.
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Dear Friends, We could all use some good news about now. So, let’s help our friends and neighbors come together as an organization that will give a real boost to the community! The Meriden ArtsTrust, Inc. and the Zach Weston/Walter Q. Peabody Foundation are 'drumming up" a new community initiative and we hope we can count on your support.
“The Crescendo Committee to bring a new symphony to Meriden", or "The Crescendo Committee" for short, of which I am a part, is a group of musicians and non-musicians who are bringing a new Symphony Orchestra to Meriden. Through e-mail, the area newspapers, posters and word-of-mouth we are contacting everyone who wants to have a lively and active Symphony to once again bring Orchestra music back to Meriden.
Please send this e-mail to anyone who you think would have an interest in helping up bring together adult musicians from age 20 and up who wish to spend quality time together with other musicians and bring a civic orchestra to Meriden.
We all miss “Tchicken and Tchaikovsky”-we all miss the wonderful sounds and lively shared experiences when we go to a Symphony concert.
Musicians- if you're practicing now - why not rehearse?
A benefit concert by Mr. Christopher White, organist, will be announced soon. Please support this wonderful cause and pledge your support for a New Meriden Symphony by purchasing a ticket and attending what will be a great concert and reception.
Thanks for your time, and keep an eye out for the advance publicity!
Please contact meridenartstrust@yahoo.com for more information or call Mrs. Katrina Axelrod at (203) 235-7445, as soon as possible. Thanks in advance for your help!
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Emergency Medical Technician Course
Hunter’s Ambulance Service, Vehicle and Education Resource Center,
474 W. Main St., Meriden. Classes will start on September 2, 2008 until end of January 2009. They are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Additional Saturday sessions are planned. Students must be over 18 years of age or older. Anyone over 16 but under 18 must have a signed parental permission form. (Available first night of class). Class size is limited to 30 students. For more information please call
(203) 514-5142.
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10th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic
The 10th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 13th at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford beginning with registration and a full American breakfast set for 7:30 A.M. A scramble shotgun start will be at 8:30 A.M. All proceeds will benefit the club’s special education scholarship fund. The $125.00 fee includes 18 holes w/cart, tee package, cash awards, pro shop gift certificates, $1000 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685.
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Americana-Folk and Folk Rock DJ's Wanted on WESU FM For Fall Radio Training
WESU FM's Folk Music Department is looking for Community Volunteers who have an understanding of Americana-Folk and -Folk-Rock Music with or without Community Radio experience.
Established in 1939, WESU is one of the oldest non-commercial radio stations in the United States. Now, in 2006, WESU broadcasts at the frequency of 88.1 megahertz from it's 1500-watt transmitter located atop the Wesleyan Science Tower. WESU offers an interesting mix of Public affairs and free-form music programming to discerning listeners at throughout the Connecticut River Valley and beyond.
Volunteer Training is provided in the Fall of 2008 for those interested in learning about Community Radio.
Must go through Community Radio Training ,Internships and Radio Community Service .
For more information contact Ken Folk and Triple A MD at WESU FM 860-685-7703 and leave your name phone number and contact information.
To listen to WESU FM locally go to WESU FM 88.1 and online at www.wesufm.org
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This September 5th, 6th and 7th The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund will hold its twenty-second 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-five 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.
On Friday, October 14, 1983 my heart was ripped right from my chest. My son, Brian, age 7, had died in a fire. In a single moment, I went from being the farther of a bright and beautiful child to childless. My wife Roberta and I had no local families, and we were in total despair. We did in deed have to take the long journey through the valley of grief. As I look back from the edge of the brighter side, I realize it is possible for life to go on.
In the beginning, Brian was in my thoughts every waking moment. Today, only things that would remind me of him bring me to think of him. Since his loss, we have had a daughter, Elizabeth, who is now twenty-three. As a family, we speak of him often, but our life continues today as we are now, and not dwelling in the past. It almost seems callous, but it is true, life does go on.
Shortly after our loss, my most difficult question was, do your have any kids or how many children do you have? Oh, what a great chance to dump your grief on someone else’s shoulders. Of course if you don’t mention the child you lost you would be guilty of denying their existence on this earth. How do I answer that question twenty- five years later? That depends on who asked and why. It’s usually small talk from someone who really doesn’t know you. As a driving instructor, my students frequently ask me if I have children. I do tell them I have a daughter who is a college student. This is very relevant to my relationship with students. I generally will not mention the child I lost years before they were born because it’s not relevant, and my relationship with them doesn’t need emotions.
So much has changed over the past quarter century that I am not the same person I was when I lost Brian. Life does go on, and I have to live out the one I have now, even with the fond memories of the past. I look to the future when my daughter graduates from college, enters the career of her choice, gets married, and gives me grandchildren I can spoil and send back home with her. Don’t worry, I will tell my grandchildren about the uncle they never met.
Michael G. Ash
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WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA
AMERICAN RED CROSS LIFEGUARD TRAINING COURSE- INCLUDES FIRST AID & CPR/FPR/AED
Participants must be 15 years of age and able to swim 500 yards. Pre-test date—Monday, Aug 11 3 PM- be prepared to swim
Class dates- August 11,12,13,14,15,18,19 from 3-8PM *(times may be adjusted as class progresses.)
Fee: Wallingford YMCA members: $235 Program Members: $270 Fee includes textbook, pocket mask, and certification cards Call 203 269 4497 x 20 for more information and to register.
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WALLINGFORD FAMILY YMCA WATER SAFETY POSTER CONTEST WINNERS.
This past June the Wallingford Family YMCA presented a Water Safety program to all the Wallingford Public Schools 3rd graders. The students were then invited to create a Water Safety Poster. The YMCA selected the following students as their school’s winner: Karli Scall- Cook Hill, Samantha Alvarado- Moses Y Beach, Jane Marr- Rock Hill, Mercedes C., Mackenzie Wilson- Highland, Rachel Mule- Pond Hill, Hunter Komm. Each of the winners received a certificate for 1 session of free swim lessons at the Wallingford Family YMCA. The posters are currently on display at the Y.
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Village at Kensington Place Hosts Swinging Summer Concerts
MERIDEN, Conn.: The public is invited to a free “Swinging Summer Concert Series” beginning Wednesday, July 23 at the Village at Kensington Place, 511 Kensington Ave., Meriden, Conn. The evening kicks off with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. and continues at 7 p.m. with live a cappella music from the Connecticut Yankee Chorus.
The concert series concludes on Monday, Aug. 18 with the Cool Cats. Refreshments will be served at 6 p.m., and the New Orleans-style Dixieland swing band performs at 6:30 p.m.
The concerts are free and open to the public. Please RSVP by calling The Village at Kensington Place at 203-235-0181.
The Village at Kensington Place provides independent living, assisted living, and and the Harbor Program, which provides specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments.
The community is operated by Benchmark Assisted Living, based in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Benchmark is the largest privately held provider of senior living services in the Northeast and is committed to setting the standard of excellence in senior housing. The company develops, owns and manages an array of senior living communities which offer independent living, assisted living, and specialized assisted living for the memory impaired. Benchmark operates 43 communities in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and Maine. Visit Benchmark at www.benchmarkquality.com.
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Meriden ArtsTrust
Just a quick note to all-
We could all use some good news, well, this is certainly good news!
The "Crescendo Committee to bring a symphony to Meriden", ("The Crescendo Committee" for short) is a group of musicians and non-musicians who have dedicated themselves to bringing a new symphony to Meriden. You are very much invited to join!
Very exciting good news!!!
The Crescendo Committee will host its first Benefit Concert and Reception with Christopher White and Friends, an evening of Organ and Piano performances (more people may sign on, too!)
Saturday, August 16th from 7-9 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, at the corner of Hanover and Cook, 164 Hanover Street in Meriden.
Tickets are available from this e-mail, (meridenartstrust@yahoo.com), Crescendo Committee members, posters will be going up soon. Tickets will be available at the door.
The Crescendo Committee is open to musicians and non-musicians alike who wish to bring a new symphony to Meriden. Membership is free to all and you are all invited to join.
Our first organizational meeting will be announced soon. You do not have to be at the meetings to join. The first meeting will be at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center. I'll keep you informed. The Crescendo Committee newsletter, "Quick Notes" may be found at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, and, I hope, on-line, on the Meriden Arts Council website, soon.
For our local friends- there is a fine concert happening today at 2 at the Augusta - two brass quintets! I hope to see you there!
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“Clean Sweep Sale”
Meriden –Come join the Arts and Crafts Association/Gallery 53 for a dual event – a “Clean Sweep Sale” on Friday, August 1 thru Sunday, 3rd and “sweep-up” some great bargains on original paintings, craft items, pottery, jewelry, prints, and more, at very reasonable prices. On Sunday Aug. 3rd join us for SUNDAY IN THE CITY - an informal gathering – for free snacks and conversation from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm.
The Arts and Crafts Association of Meriden/Gallery 53 has been supporting artists and artisans and serving the community for over 100 years and needs your help to raise funds to continue the many educational programs they sponsor. The Gallery will be open for this special event from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
We are also in need of donations and will be receiving on July 22 – 30th from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. Remember, all donations are tax deductible!
The Gallery is easy to reach from I-91 and I-84. There is free and ample parking space available across the street. Visit our website: www.gallery53.org or call (203) 235-5347 for directions.
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Temple Beth David’s Shabbat in the Park
Temple Beth David of Cheshire will hold outdoor services on Friday, August 29, at Lock 12 Historic Park on Route 42 in Cheshire, beginning with a picnic supper at 6:30 p.m. and followed by Friday evening Sabbath services. Members of the public are welcome to join us for an informal and pleasant evening. For more information regarding the Shabbat in the park or Temple Beth David, call the Temple office at (203) 272-0037.
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Adoption: How to get Started!
Sponsored by: Child Adoption Resource Association A non-profit full service adoption agency Located in New London serving all of Connecticut
Wednesday August 6, 20087:00 p.m. Free Informational Sessions for People Interested in Finding Out more about Adoption held at three Connecticut locations: Borders Books and Music Seattle's Best Cafe
470 Lewis Ave .Meriden, CT 06451 Phone: 203-237-5510
A CARA worker will explain different types of adoption and offer a step-by-step outline to adopting a child. Project Connecticut's Child, a grant funded program seeking to find families to adopt children from CT state foster care at no or minimum cost, will be presented. Participants will leave with a folder of resources to help guide families, couples, or individuals wishing to adopt.
For more information, contact CARA www.adoptacarakid.org 860-444-0553
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The Central Connecticut Civic Youth Orchestra Young musicians--e-mail to audition today! meridenartstrust@yahoo.com
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2008 Gardener’s Market
The Wallingford Garden Club and Wallingford Center Inc presents the 2008 Gardener’s Market Saturday mornings 9:00-12:00 from July 12th to Sept 13th at the Railroad Station Green, routes 5 and 150. Offered will be plants, flowers, produce, unique crafts, baked items and other goodies. Gardening advice and plant clinic are available. Check the website at www.wallingfordgardenersmarket.com. for detailed information. Special vendors for Sewn Crafts: Amber Billings with tote bags; Marge Dubue with Quilts and Blankets; Nancy Eddy of Catnip Toys; Mollie Elmer of 2 Friends Quilting with small quilts, runners, pillow cases; Kristin Giordano of K A Knits with crocheted items; Nancy Paull with small quilts and aprons. Special Paper Crafts: Doll Barnes with Paper Sculpture greeting cards; Linda Houle with greeting/note cards; Frank Totz of Paper Tole Creations with 3-D Artwork. Jewelry Vendors: Christina Bracale of Little Trend Setters with handmade jewelry for children; Gerarda McIntyre of Sparkles by Sam
with Swarovski crystal jewelry; Amanda Proscino of Accessories Aesthetic with jewelry kits; Rudy Raccio with jewelry; Kathryn Robinson of Accessorize with guitar pic jewelry, boxes and beaded flowers. Artistic Craft Vendors: Lynn Bassett of A Desire to Inspire with hand painted crafts: wood, slate, terra cotta; Rosemarie Bonito of Garden Emporium with garden theme gifts; Diane and Larry Bradley of The Homemaker with crafts and florals; Christina Carta of Tiny Blooms with girls hair accessories; Beverly
Keener with mini pottery w/dried arrangements; Francine LaFontaine with matted prints & cards; Rose & Tom Marano of Blossom Blessings with Floral designs, wreaths and swags; Ailyn Urzua-Geghan of Ecolife with nutrition products: home and skin care.
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Call for Meriden Area Artists...The Main ARTery, Meriden's Main Street Celebrations of the arts sponsored by the Meriden Arts Council. Fine Art Show & Sale Thursday, October 2, 2008 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Meriden Courthouse Plaza. Along with a Wine Tasting hosted byValencia Liquor and a Gourmet Chef Demonstration/Food Tasting sponsored by The Drust Family Shop-Rite. For a prospectus or more information, please contact Lynn Fisher at 203-235-6270 orinfo@meridenartscouncil.org. Open to all Meriden Fine Artists working in the mediums of Oils,Watercolors, Gouache, Egg Tempera, Pastels/Oil Pastels, Textile/Fabric, Photography, Sculpture, Graphics (charcoal, etching, woodcuts, silkscreen, intaglio, original illustration in traditional mediums such as ink or graphite, etc.).Work may be traditional or non-objective. Entries must be artist’s own work.
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Attention Retirees!
It’s almost that time of the year again…BACK TO SCHOOL TIME! Being retired, this probably doesn’t affect you that much. But back to school time also means that the Senior Buddy Readers program is beginning to sign up volunteers for the 2008-2009 school years. “What is Senior Buddy Readers,” you ask? It is an intergenerational literacy program where retirees volunteer to help first and second graders improve their reading skills. Last year, Senior Buddy Readers celebrated its sixth year, with seventy two volunteers helping over two hundred children in five Meriden elementary schools. So if you are a retiree who has one hour a week to share with a child, don’t you think it’s time to volunteer as a Senior Buddy Reader? For more information or to sign up, please contact David Radcliffe, Director of Meriden Children First Initiative located at the Meriden Public Library (203) 630-3566. Or you can check out the Senior Buddy Readers link at Children First’s website www.meridenchildrenfirst.org. Make a difference in the life of a child…become a Senior Buddy Reader!
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WalkCT Family Hike FREE!
Saturday, 8/30, 10:00 a.m.; Letterboxing in the Cockaponset State Forest, Haddam; Ages 4 years+ Clue detectives unite! Join us for a fun-filled adventure of following clues, searching for letterboxes, and enjoying the sights and sounds of summer in the forest. What secrets might the forest share with us? We’ll look for old stone steps, swamps and ledges, and a once active charcoal mound. Bring your own letterbox stamp and notepad if you have it; if not, we'll have enough for you to share. Directions: Route 9 to exit 8 - Beaver Meadow Road. Turn left and first right onto Weiss Road to the end; right onto Filley Road; pass under highway where it turns into a forest road; first right onto Jericho Road; go ~200 yards on left is 2nd sandpit with parking area.
What are WalkCT Family Hikes?
Bring the kids! Feel the fresh air and enjoy quality time outdoors together. Family Hikes, led by trained Family Hike Leaders, are part of Connecticut Forest & Park Association's initiative, WalkConnecticut the trail to health and happiness. Family Hikes are free as a public service to the children and families of Connecticut. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. Locations are subject to change; call CFPA at (860) 346-2372 and visit www.ctwoodlands.org <http://www.ctwoodlands.org/> for additional Family Hikes. Babies in backpacks welcome. To ensure a safe and enjoyable time:1. Bring water, snack, and your excitement2. Leave pets at home3. Wear sturdy shoes4. Remember to bring your parents and caregivers.Join us for adventure along the trails, held throughout Connecticut the last weekend each month.____________________________________________________________________________________
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