Your Stories…Your Lives
To read THE PEOPLES PRESS in image or pdf forms go to www.peoplespressnews.com. We are a community newspaper serving Meriden, Wallingford and all of central Connecticut.
My Uncle Hugo Bandecchi, The Last of a Generation
By his niece, Ruth M. Petrucci
My grandparents Nello and Edvige Bandecchi had four children, Miris, Iris, Hugo and Edward. As life goes there is a beginning and an end to everything. On July 7, 2008 my Uncle Hugo passed away at the age of 87, he was the last of a generation. He was pre-deceased by his sister, my mother Miris in June 2003, his sister Iris, my aunt in August, 1985 and a younger brother Edward my uncle in April, 1978. Uncle Hugo was born on May 11, 1921 in Wallingford where he grew up.
He graduated from Wilcox Tech in Meriden where he worked as a silversmith, doing chaser designing. This is an intricate work done on copper. He was also an apprentice at Elmore Silver Company in Meriden.
He joined the National Guard and was in Florida when he was called to duty on February 28, 1941 when World War 2 began. He was a Tech Sergeant in the Army Infantry with KC 102 43rd Division. He also spent some time in Africa where he contracted malaria. He was discharged from the Army on October 6, 1945 at Camp Adair, Oregon.
He worked at Wallace Silversmith in Wallingford, where he was the manager of the hollow ware division from 1960-1983 when he retired on May 30th of that year.
After he retired he enjoyed working at home doing chasing designing. He made many beautiful plaques of Jesus, Mary, praying hands, roses and other too numerous to mention. I always admired the great talent he had. I was fortunate to be given a wood carving of the Pieta by him just before he passed away.
He also had a talent of playing the guitar and the accordion. Eleanore said he got out of helping with the dishes every night by serenading her after their dinner. She also said it was worth it to hear the beautiful music while she worked.
He also had a talent of playing the guitar and the accordion. Eleanore said he got out of helping with the dishes every night by serenading her after their dinner. She also said it was worth it to hear the beautiful music while she worked.
He enjoyed working in his yard and knew just when to plant the herbs and tomatoes each year. He made many delicious Italian dishes; one was tripe that I truly loved. He cured ham, made anchovies, parsley and garlic in olive oil that was magnificent on Italian bread, tomato sauce, but when he married Eleanore he didn’t have to do much cooking, since she was also a terrific cook.
I have many wonder memories of my Uncle; he spent many Fourth of July’s and Memorial Days my house with his wife Eleanore, we always ended up playing jarts in the back yard. They spent Thanksgiving with us and we would always end up reminiscing about the olden days and have many good laughs.
Setback was one of our favorite card games. Tom and I also spent many good times with them at their house in Southington. He was great for remembering and telling jokes. Whenever we would speak on the phone he always had a joke to tell and had a good sense of humor.
We went to many Apple Festivals in Southington, it was a yearly event that we look forward to. We also enjoyed a cold beer while watching the parade.
He was a member of the VFW in Southington where he played bocci. He was well liked and a good friend to everyone.
He would have been married to Eleanore 28 years on July 18, 2008. He missed that milestone by 12 days. He is the last of the generation, he is gone but will not be forgotten, his memory will live on in all our hearts.
“Maggie’s Corner”
For The Love of a Mother and Father,
Two People Who Create A Family, Who Are The Hearts
That Bring You Back Home for the Holidays and
Every Day In Your Heart And Memory of Memories.
By: Maggie Griffin
I have to admit, The People’s Press is the only place where I can write about the true meaning of life rather than Real Estate. The publishers of The People’s Press gave me a gift by creating Maggie’s Corner. There is a reason they gave me this gift. You see, Andy and Dawn, who are the publishers, believe in making a difference to everyone who read this paper. Through them, many people have been inspired with the gift of Wisdom by reading The People’s Press.
As I said in a previous column, Real Estate is my job, which is what I love to do. To be successful at what anyone does in the employment arena, you truly need to have a passion for what you do for a living. As my Father once said to me, “all it takes is a dream and the courage to make it happen”.
But in my life, there is nothing that means more to me then my family. Where there is family, there is hope. Where there is family, there is someone there that always dries the tears from our eyes. Where there are sisters and brothers, somehow sisters and brothers help each other turn lies back into truth again. It’s all because Family needs each other.
People often wonder, with all the life challenges I faced, how I got through it all with more challenges to come I am sure. Life is a challenge; however, someone recently told me that all of us have the power to change, change to make our lives healthier and happier. This person is a success in the Medical Field.
I am about to tell you what helps me get through my challenges in life in hopes it helps everyone who has faced challenges in one way, shape of form.
Imagine all the people in the world, what if there is no Heaven, what if there is no hell? We all live for today, in a world of dreams, hoping to live life in peace and happiness. But as adults, we tend to forget where we came from and who taught us the meaning of life since birth.
For the Love of a Mother and Father, I can’t remember when my parents weren’t there. They taught me everything I know. In my family, we’ve been through everything there is. But, we always stood high and strong together. My parents taught me to never be afraid. They always would say the only people you can trust are family. Looking back, remembering, I am glad I listened to my parents. They taught me how to pass on the Love of a Mother and Father to my children. Someday, my children will also pass on what I am teaching them today to their children and so on.
When we pray, sometimes we have no proof nobody can hear, but someone up there is listening. That tells me there is a Heaven. Miracles do happen, all you need to do is believe and have faith. In due time, prayers are answered in trouble times.
This is where I love the song Hero. Believe it or not, in our hearts, we are all heroes, all we need to do is look inside our heart, not be afraid, and any sorrow many of us face, will walk away. Stay strong through any challenges, keep having faith, then you will see the answer in time.
When it comes to parents, our parents, no matter what, they are always there, alive or a parent who has passed away. You see, I learned, when I lost my Dad, he lives within me, my sisters and brothers. My Father and my Mother’s teaching is what my siblings and I pass along to our children. A parent will always protect their child, with unconditional love. Kids today may not realize how important a parent’s love is. But will realize it when they have children and understanding how the Love of a Mother and Father lives within our children. Parents have faith in what their children do, but no matter what they do, the Love of a Mother and Father will always be there with love that is so strong, a love that is unselfish, they will just always be there.
With every moment in time, each day we live, we all want it to be a day to give the best of us to our children and to the world in general. We all had our hearts broken; we know how to rise above it. However, there is one thing that remains, what we learn from our parents, helps us as adults when in the bottom line; the answers are all up to us.
As parents, it is normal to feel the hurt our children feel. It is also normal that the Love of a Mother and Father want to take that hurt away from our children. But the truth is, whenever we feel hurt, we have to remind our children, and ourselves, that when one door closes, another one does open. Understand that everything in life happens for a reason. That reason is because there is something else better in store for all of us. That is why it has been said “Life is a journey”. This is something a parent already knows and comforts their children by letting them know, it’s ok to feel hurt, but it is even better when the new door that opens has something more special in store for them when it’s wide opened.
We all try to live to be the very best, we all have made life’s plans, and we all took every chance that was brought to our tables. When opportunities were taken from me, I rose above the hurt and disappointment, just by remembering what my parents taught me, leaving me making every moment, one moment in time to remember, moments that turned out even better.
It is hard for parents to let their kids go as they grow too. Watching my children growing up so fast, I remind them how much I love them every day, and they know I never want to miss a thing they do. I am positive that goes for every Mother and Father out there. Time flies as our kids grow, there is only one moment of each moment we live for our children and watch them grow to be adults and parents themselves.
In my daughter’s eyes, everyone is equal. Everything became clearer to me the day she was born; she gave me the gift of motherhood the moment she was conceived. The minute I first held my daughter in my arms, I saw the light through her eyes. Now, I see the reflection of me through my daughter.
In my son’s eyes, I see if he can get through any challenge, I see a golden framed picture of when I took every opportunity that came across my table. Through my son, he shows me to never doubt miracles, just by listening to him and seeing his courage to make a dream possible.
I can only imagine what my children’s future will be like. But, there is one thing I know. For the Love of a Mother and Father, no matter what path my children choose, they know right from wrong and they have proven to me that anything is possible if you just believe and have faith. Funny, my parents told me the same thing my children show me today, that only proves I am passing on my parents teachings to my children. But they also know that home is not just a place to sleep, eat and shower, it is also a place in their hearts that has a place where Mom and Dad, Sister and Brother remain forever.
My Mom is still alive and well. My Dad passed away. But there is one thing they both showed me, my sisters and brothers. They showed us how to live, love, laugh and cry. They showed us how to live every moment in time. Sometimes we take advantage of the ones we love the most. But when the time comes when we discover something is wrong or we move far away, that is when we realize what life is all about, our family. I am very happy for what my parents taught me. Through my parents, as a parent myself now, I continue to pass along all the advice, strength, love and happiness to my children as they grow, in every stage of their lives.
Never assume how anyone raises their children and how children are being raised. What matters is a Happy Family who is there for each other, through good times and bad times, sickness and health, rich or poor.
For the Love of a Mother and Father, sister and brother, our children, together, a family can only understand tears, fears and worries without making assumptions or accusations; two things that can hurt people. How we handle assumptions and accusations can be different in everyone. Understand, don’t assume.
Children, young and older adults - love your Mother and Father as your Mother and Father love you. You will understand the meaning of The Love of a Mother and Father, two people who dry your tears, clear your mind when you are confused, and are there for you unconditionally. Parents are the people who hold you up, give you dignity and strength and stand you on a pedestal, no matter how old they are, no matter how old you are. They are the ones that will hold your hand and take you home again when you are lost. Think about this phrase again….. “Take you home again”.
Home is not just a roof and four walls; it is a place in your heart that will remain forever no matter where you are or where you go. And Parents do hold children in their hearts too, no matter where their child is. Through Family, we live in each other’s hearts more than we live in four walls and a roof. Through the toughest times, look back at every moment in time in your life with your Mother and Father, siblings and even grandparents. When you do that, you are home again with your family.
This world is a challenging place to live in. Along with the bad, there is always the good. Remember the greatest of times with your family, the love you have in your hearts for your family. If you can do this, believe it or not, no matter where you are, remembering will keep you safe, sound and suddenly you are home again and that new door starts to open for you.
Don’t ever let anyone in this world take you down through their words, opinions and assumptions. Rumors and untruths about anyone is a terrible thing, we all know this. The good news about people who say such terrible things about another is they do that because they probably have their own issues they wish not to discuss or let be known. Stay strong and wise, show no fear and keep your head up high. That sets an example of strength and courage our children will learn from. Like my parents would preach to me, rather than giving up, give more. When anyone can do that, everything turns around in favor of you. As for family, every family has its ups and downs – that is why there is no such thing as the TV shows in the past called “The Brady Bunch” or “Leave It to Beaver”; if only our world could be that perfect. That leaves me to repeat a phrase in a previous column I wrote: “Nothing is perfect in This World”. However, remember through ups and downs, families become stronger, live longer, laugh more and become closer.
When you have morals, strength and courage, just remember where all that came from, it came from The Love of a Mother and Father. Remember the one thing that cannot be replaced in this world is Family. Believe it or not, when our parents pass away, they still live in their children and in the hearts of all other family members. The worse nightmare a parent fears is losing a child. If that ever happened to you, even a child still lives within the hearts of his or her parents.
When life passes through your eyes during challenging times, it’s because you are only human when feeling this way. Understand three words of wisdom; courage, love and faith – together, the definition of those three words will get anyone through any challenging time, a time where we all, as humans feel, has happened for an unjustifiable reason.
Treat others with the same respect and sincerity you expect to receive. There are doors that open when other ones close, there is a higher power that hears us pray, there are reasons for every reason, there is the Love of a Mother and Father, no matter how young or old we are.
People know me as “Maggie Griffin”, the Realtor that goes above and beyond for her clients”. That’s true, and there is a reason why I go above and beyond for all people. It’s called understanding, experience and care, been there and did that in my own life.
When it comes to talking to cancer patients, I will run to take the time to talk to them, young or old, because I have been there and did that too. I know what it is like to fight for my life, battling cancer.
When it comes to losing a family member or a friend, I understand the hurt of loss; it is hard to get through a loss of a love one. But I learned, in time, we get through a loss of a love one when we realize our love ones who pass on still live in our hearts.
As a Mother, when it comes to my children, like my parents would say to me, “I will stop the world to protect my children and the world cannot stop me from doing so”. Life begins at the moment of conception. And as a Mother, a Mother’s love begins at the moment a child is conceived in a Mother’s womb. Without a Father; life wouldn’t begin in a Mother’s womb. For the Love of a Mother and Father is for the love they have for their children. That love lives forever. Thinking about my Mom and Dad, sisters and brothers concludes me to write the following that is small example of what keeps my heart home with my children today.
“I am proud to be a Della Rocco”. My Mom is Florence; my Dad is the Late Domenic “Dom”. My three older sisters, two older brothers and I understood as we were growing up, our famous phrase on Sunday dinners: “Una palla di carne รจ come una palla di carne”, capiche?” Then Mom would always say - Aspet!
My Grand Father, who lived with us, would make his own wine; it was one of his favorite hobbies. However, it took one of my older brothers and one of my older sisters to ruin our Sunday dinners for life. They just had to be curious and drink the wine, days before a Sunday dinner. (In this REAL LIFE story, their names have been changed to protect the innocent). To continue, Frick and Frack replaced Grand Pa’s wine (that they drank) with Prune Juice. Let’s just say they had to just put a spoil to Grand Pa’s favorite hobby (and wine) for days.
In later years, my father gave me the jug the wine was in (that miraculously turned into Prune Juice) to add to my glass bottle collection. Although valuable and sentimental, I had to do something with the jug because every time I looked at that jug, I felt the guilt in not telling Mom and Dad what my sister and brother did when they did it back in the 70’s. I left it to my other sisters to be the tattle tails. What happened to the jug? I gave the jug to my cousin Matthew, whose hobby is making wine.
Then there was always my favorite Uncle Tut, who said once; “If you are going to move to England, You Need to Learn the Language First”. Funny, he gave that advice in English. He always knew how to make everyone laugh.
Irony has it, when my Dad was riding in the Limo with me on my wedding day back in 1991, Dad said to me: “Why is it that an Irish guy has to marry my beautiful Italian daughter”. My answer was: “Dad, Tom is not Irish, he’s English”. He still cried walking me down the aisle. And what a wedding that was. It was a huge wedding that turned into an Italian Festival. Later that evening, Tom and I thanked our parents for inviting us.
But here is the best part of that day. Knowing my Dad and the “Envelope Bag” the Bride usually carries, it’s a good thing the limo driver took me seriously when I asked him to stop at McDonald’s between the Church and the Hall. That would have been a good promotion for McDonalds, even though my bride’s maids were in the other limo and couldn’t figure out why the limos stopped at McDonalds. This only goes to show I learned from my older sister’s weddings that took place before mine. “Never mind cutting the cake, get to every table with the envelope bag”.
And like the other weddings, Mom never left home without her portable sewing kit. All the weddings in the Della Rocco Family, someone’s gown would tear somewhere. To include, as always, when planning a wedding, the in-laws never agree on certain things. In our case, Tom’s parents wanted a DJ, my parents wanted a Band. So to make both sets of parents happy, Tom and I hired a one man band.
Looking at the pictures and watching the wedding video, there they are - my family, Tom’s family, the 20 nuns my Mother invited – now that I think of it, it’s no wonder the one man band had a hard time choosing certain songs to sing.
My point is, no matter what your family heritage is, no matter where you live or where you go, the love of a Mother and Father brings together a family. Through challenging times, all you need to do is look into your heart, your memory of memories, and you are home again with the love of a Mother and Father, a family of families, living or passed away, it all remains in your heart, giving you courage, love and faith through your journey of life.
Happy Holidays and Happy 2009! - Maggie Griffin
Happy Holidays to the readers of The People's Press and Andy and Dawn - the best editors and publishers of this terrific paper.
The Greatest Gift Of All
By: Maggie Griffin
Once upon a time there was a Mom and Dad to be,
They were due to have a baby, a blessing star to share their with their special Christmas Tree.
Anxiously they waited, the baby was overdue.
The Mom to be got big like a cow,
So big she could have said Moo.
She made a wish upon the mid night star to Heaven up above,
Shouting “I wish my baby is born before Christmas” as her eyes glowed with love.
Forgetting that the Dad to be had a lucky number,
He was in for a surprise yet to be seen by another.
Through the wish upon a star from the new Mom to be,
It turned out the baby’s arrival came on the day of the new Dad’s lucky number, seventeen.
The new Mom couldn’t believe her eyes, her wish came true.
The new Dad couldn't believe she was born on his lucky number....who knew?
It’s a baby girl, wrapped in pink with eyes sparkling blue.
On the day they took her home, snowing I might add,
There was Santa to greet the baby and hold in his arms with the Christmas Teddy Bear from Dad.
And before Santa left, he proved that a wish comes on any given day,
By telling us "All it takes is patience and faith, and your wish will come your way.
As Santa was leaving, he said it’s time to go to house number one hundred and seventeen,
So The new Mom shouted…
Thank You God, Thank You Santa, you blessed us with the best site we ever seen.
Then the family came over all to celebrate and take a peak.
Dad shouted “We celebrate two days of the gift of life during Christmas week”.
As the family was there, the grandparents said gleaming with a smile,
The day this baby was born was for a reason you had to wait a little while.
The Power of Prayer, the wish to the shining star, the lucky number….Wow!
And The Mom no longer felt like The Big Christmas Cow.
This little baby girl,
Who is now turning “Sweet Sixteen” ,
All their hopes for her as a baby came true like a dream.
But let’s not forget the lucky number, because she was overdue.
What a coincidence this little angel’s team shirt has the number 17, who knew?
To Top the Miracle of The Mother's Wish and The Father's lucky number,
She will begin college, at the age of seventeen….what a wonderful wonder!
Meditation
The word meditation comes from two Latin words: Meditari, which means to think or dwell upon and Mederi, which means to heal. In Sanskrit, the word meditation is derived from Medha, which means wisdom. Meditation is not a form of worship or prayer but is a technique that helps to develop awareness or a state of consciousness in which the mind is free from scattered thoughts. Whatever is done to reach a level of awareness is called meditation.
Published scientific and medical research has supported the benefits of meditation, although much still needs to be understood. Some of the known benefits of meditation include:
Improvement in general health
Increased immune function
Increased serotonin production
Reduction in heart rate
Reduction in blood pressure
Lowered stress and anxiety levels
Relief of insomnia
Improvement in concentration
Decreased muscle tension and pain due to tension
Decreased frequency of headaches
Improvement in chronic diseases
Improvement in post-operative healing
Reduction in pre-menstrual syndrome
Relief of phobias, fears and conflicts
Increased self-confidence
Increased joy and happiness
Self discovery
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC in Wallingford is pleased to announce the addition of a free bi-weekly Meditation Group on Sundays from 7:00pm-8:30pm starting January 4, 2009. The Group will begin with a discussion of technique followed by time for practice. No experience necessary. Sign up is required. Call (203) 269-2TLC to reserve your seat or visit www.tlclisazola.com.
Acts of Kindness
By Kathy Carroll
It’s no secret that many families are having a difficult time surviving. We are living in a difficult time. Many people are forced to struggle to put food on the table and pay the bills. There simply isn’t enough money to do both. They are forced to make a very difficult decision every day…Do they pay the bills to keep heat, electricity, and a roof over their head, or do they buy food, clothing, and necessities for their family? There are many organizations that will help low income families with their difficult times. They are invaluable to the many communities that they serve. What happens to the families that aren’t considered low income? I personally know a family that is considered middle income but have so many bills that it is impossible for them to make ends meet. Every week is a struggle. “Mary” must go to charitable organizations to ask for food for her family. While she does get help many of the times she asks, she is told that she doesn’t qualify for assistance any longer because of her income. She is forced to look for another place to help her. This continues every week. She asks for help, is told she doesn’t qualify, then is on her way to find another option. “Mary” feels extremely foolish and embarrassed to have to do this every week.
I am always looking for something to help “Mary” with her financial difficulties. One day, while I was at work, I asked friends if they had any ideas. I explained “Mary’s” problem and what she needed. As we were speaking, a customer heard what was being said. Without hesitation, he took money out of his pocket and handed it to me. He said it was for my friend. He wasn’t looking for recognition or a pat on the back. The knowledge he was helping someone in need was all he wanted. I immediately called “Mary” to come to my job. When I handed her the envelope with the gift she was speechless. She simply couldn’t believe that anyone would do that for a stranger. Thankful doesn’t come close to describing her emotion. “Mary’s” thoughtful stranger did this for her not just once, but twice! He handed me money the following week for her as well. Even though I can’t divulge his name, I can tell you this—Wallingford is lucky to have a selfless guardian angel working in it. I hope that everyone that reads this will take a hint from his unselfish act. If you know a family that is struggling, help. Put a small bag of groceries at their front door, slip a grocery store gift card in their mailbox. Even a small gift will let the struggling people know that someone cares. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
__________________________________________________________________
My Dear Paula
I will never forget you. It will be five years on January 8th that you parted this life form here on earth, but you are not forgotten. It was through The People's Press that I was contacted by a very dear friend of yours recently, and we have shared a lot of memories together. We have not yet met in person, but we have shared many emails between us. I hope we can meet someday. I was thinking about you tonight because of Christmas approaching. I so miss the visits at your shop. After almost five years, your shop sign has been taken down and the closed sign in the doorway that was in your handwriting. I cannot tell you how many times in these years I have gone down Center Street and seen your shop windows decorated the way you left them and your 
sign on your shop which read Paula's Place: Antiques and Collectibles. It is so strange to suddenly not see those things there. I always had this strange and irrational thought that as long as your shop remained there, that perhaps one day it would open again and you would see me and say, "Hi, Babs." I know that is illogical, but the hope remained. Jack told me almost five years ago that he thought you would live about a week, maybe less. All I could say was, "What?" I could not believe it then, and I still have a hard time believing it now. You made a huge impression on my life. I miss you, Paula. "To be continued," that was the phrase you used every time we parted. I believe our friendship will continue in the time beyond my reality now. I still feel connected, but I wish we could be sitting on my porch with those fresh eggs you delivered and sharing stories and you making me laugh. I'll never forget those days, Paula, never. I miss you today as much as I did almost five years ago. You live on in my heart and in many hearts, believe me. We will see each other one of these days. Thank you for giving me Christmas in my heart every day that we knew each other. You were a treasure that I am grateful I found. But I wish it could have been longer. Babs
_____________________________________________________________________________
A Grateful Husband
I am thankful that my wife’s (Ruth) knee surgery went off like clock work without a hitch. I appreciate the skillful hands of Doctor Kolstad and the staff at his office, the staff in the pre-op, the OR and Pavilion B at Mid-State Hospital.
She is receiving excellent care at her rehab and she is about two to three a head of schedule on her recovery. (Woman really can handle pain way better than man) or at least me.
I am also thankful for all the kind thoughts from our friends. Thanks to all and she will be back doing the laundry soon. Since she says you should not wash all color and whites together. What’s wrong with that?
Have a safe and joyous holiday season.
Keith Gordon
A grateful husband
___________________________________________________________________________________
Take Time To Socialize
Submitted by Carol Carbutti - Comfort Keepers of Wallingford
For many families, the holiday season marks one of the only times of year that all members can gather together to celebrate and enjoy each other's company. The portrait before and after this joyous time, however, is often far less picturesque for seniors living alone or far away from relatives.
As the aging population continues to grow - the U.S. Census Bureau projects over 88 million people age 65 and older in the U.S. by 2050 - memory loss and dementia in seniors are posing a major public health burden and it's often difficult for relatives to monitor that aging family members are getting the level of stimulation and socialization they want and need. But there's hope: According to a recent study by the Harvard School of Public Health, researchers have found evidence that seniors in the United States with active social lives may have slower rates of memory decline and lower mortality rates.
Given these findings, Comfort Keepers®, in-home care services providers located nationwide, has provided the following tips for family members to address with their aging loved ones this holiday season to ensure a happy and healthy time is had by all.
1. Link Up with Like Minds: Senior groups plan activities like exercise, meals, games and trips for seniors wanting to get out of the house and expand their circle of friends. Look into these groups with your loved ones and find one what best fits their interests.
2. Pick Up a Pen: Sending holiday cards is a wonderful way to spark a new kind of relationship between family members. Once these lines of communication have been opened, seniors will be more inclined to keep up with the correspondence long after the holiday season ends.
3. Get in the Game: Brainteasers, memory games and mathematical puzzles are not only fun but can employ areas of the brain that aren't regularly stimulated. Try a few with your loved one while you are in town and leave them with a few books or games that they can continue using after you leave.
4. Make a List and Check it Twice: Send your loved one a list of possible gift ideas for other family members and friends and review their purchases upon your arrival while helping them with wrapping. If you have the luxury of arriving prior to the holiday, accompany your loved one on a shopping excursion to select the perfect presents.
5. Hire a Helping Hand: If you are still concerned about your loved one when the holiday season comes to a close, discuss the possibility of hiring an in-home companion. Not only will this person be able to help with basic chores and activities but the companion will be able to provide much-needed social interaction for your loved one on a daily, weekly or live-in basis.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Thankful for Thanksgiving
Dear Readers of The People's Press,
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday -- even this year when the times have been so difficult for so many. One hundred volunteers served 400 meals to folks who joined us in the dining room of the First Congregational Church in Wallingford on Thanksgiving Day. They delivered 350 meals and visits to the home bound in Wallingford, Meriden, Cheshire, Durham and North Haven. They wrote more than 300 letters and cards to service men and women to be delivered with the Christmas coffee care packages that the Church sends. We went from no desserts the day before Thanksgiving to a table full of homemade goodies Thanksgiving Day. The Girls Scouts, Boy Scouts, CCD classes, youth groups, senior citizens, Rotary, and so many individuals and organizations come together to make this holiday the best it can be for so many. I am blessed because I get to see it all from beginning to end.
This year is tough. People are losing their jobs, homes and a way of life that once seemed so secure. We are at war on so many fronts. We are scared, angry and struggling with so many issues. I feel overwhelmed sometimes by the great need in almost every arena. I can't feed all the starving people here or in the Sudan and I am heartsick at the indifference, hatred and terrorism all around us. I am one person and I can't fix everything.
But, TOGETHER, WE CAN DO SO MUCH FOR SO MANY! Just one person at a time reaching out to another makes all the difference. Just listening to one person's story, just offering a hand or a hug when you don't have anything else to give, makes all the difference. Just taking a meal and visiting with a home bound person lets them know we care and caring makes all the difference.
So, my thanks to all of you who come together year after year to cook turkeys; peel potatoes; set up; clean up; serve; bake; play guitar and sing; give your time, effort, money and most of all give your hearts to be there for, and to bring out the best, in each other. I am so thankful for the memories we make and the joy we bring to each other. See you Christmas Day and please call my office if you would like to make a donation of food or money, adopt a family or volunteer in any way.
Thanks and God's peace.........Nancy
_________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Housewives - Central Connecticuts Know It All Gals!
Dear Readers,
Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advise from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.
Be blessed to be a blessing this holiday season. And, have a Merry Christmas, happy holiday and fabulous New Year! - June and Flora
Dear Housewives,
Is there really a difference (besides price) between generic and name brand groceries? Not quite sure in Meriden
FLORA: For some groceries there is not difference at all. In fact, many come of the same production line. Marketing wizards are paid a lot of money to lure us to a certain 'name' and package design. You also see it with cosmetics and even medicine. As for food, I say most is the same except for soda, I do notice a difference in taste. June?
JUNE: I guess that most things are the same whether they are generic or not. Sometimes a name brand company makes a generic brand themselves giving the consumer the feeling of competition. They figure those who are price conscious will buy their generic brand and those who want a name will pay more for their "other" item with the brand name. Either way, the profit is theirs for the taking.
You can look at the ingredient list and compare the two for almost anything. I feel that there are some things that are better quality when you get the brand name and even though companies want to create competition the generic is made cheaper so they can sell it cheaper. It comes down to personal preference all the way. And, when food is involved, taste matters.
Dear Housewives,
I have been getting invitations to various parties. The ones that sell jewelry, candles and more. I can't afford to spend $30 for a votive and a holder or $70 for some random necklace made somewhere and so not worth it. Ladies-Help me decline these invites graciously.
Signed, All invited out in Xville.
FLORA: It is nice to have friends to be invited to these parties. But why can't we all just get together for tea/coffee a light snack and hang out? Why does it have to revolve around some tiered marketing event? Maybe we can start a movement right now, inviting friends for game night or just hanging out. Let's start a 2009 event. Dear Reader, you can name it and start this. Maybe if June is into this, she will come up with some fun ideas, she is quite the hostess and knows how to plan events! June?
JUNE: Oh, thanks Flora for the hostess "shout out". We often get together with friends for "drinks and games" night. I think it is a great idea. I think for this reader the proper way to decline is to just say that she has other plans or that money is tight. Frankly, there is no danger in going since most friends that invite you should invite you on the premise that you may not buy anything. It is okay to go and look. Your hostess is making the food and getting the drinks anyway and you never know when you will see something you really want or something that is a good deal. If you can't buy tell your friend up front and if she says come anyway go and have fun socializing. If you are still uncomfortable just politely say you have plans that night.
GOOD THINGS
JUNE: Hi Flora, it is that time of year again. Some good things that I remember around this time are this: getting the fresh Christmas tree that will be in your home for a month, making a list for Santa, getting what was on my list for Santa, getting what is on my kids list for Santa, decorating with my parents, decorating with my kids, singing Christmas Carols as a kid (an now no matter how bad my voice is), the Christmas shows and movies, ice skating and snow. And, finally, saying Merry Christmas to friends and strangers alike so Flora......Merry Christmas friend!
FLORA: It is that time again, indeed. I too am grateful for so much.The older I get, the more I appreciate the things I spent my life taking for granted.
I love the Christmas movies (especially the old ones like: White Christmas, Holiday Inn, Bishop's Wife- I do need my annual fix of Elf though!), shows and this year I will go to NYC for a glimpse of Christmas, NY style. I am looking forward to see the stage production of It's a Wonderful Life.
I love the smell of evergreen, it could put me into a trance. Merry Christmas, friend and to all that read Dear Housewives. We appreciate you very much.
______________________________________________
AT THE HEART OF IT ALL!
By: Staci M. Roy, Executive Director of the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center
It really is the most wonderful time of the year and I would like to send out a big Thank You to all of you who participated in some way at our Annual Augusta Auction held in November. By placing an ad in the program, donating and item, buying tickets to the preview party, attending the auction, volunteering time or bidding on an item you enabled the Center to raise over 
$17,000 to continue our programming and events. The ACCC is beautifully decorated for the Holidays and we have Tony DeFelice, hairdresser at Catherine & Co., and Jacob Moss, decorator & designer of Jacob Moss Floral Design to thank for donating their time, expertise, & decorations. The Arts & Cultural Center (Meriden’s first Library) never looked grander, it is a must see! We are currently hosting our Annual Holiday Display and Silent Auction through Dec. 15th. All viewing times for the display and our upcoming events can be found on our web-site www.curtisculturalcenter.org or by calling the Center at 203-639-2856. There will be many events to enjoy at the Center in the month of December and we hope to see you at one of the following: Hartt Guitar Dept. performing on Sunday Dec. 7th at 3pm, Augusta Curtis Concert Band Holiday Concert Monday Dec. 8th at 7pm, Hartt 20/20 performance group performing Tuesday Dec. 9th at 7pm, and “A Very Murray Christmas” by the Murray Brass Quintet Sunday Dec. 21st at 3pm. Looking for a Holiday gift for that hard to buy for person, why not give them a gift membership to the ACCC? Memberships, donations, grants, and fundraisers are how the Center affords to keep the doors open so we could use all the Community support we can get. We hope you will come out and enjoy the Center during the Holidays, after all this is a gem in the Meriden Community. The Board of Directors and I would like to wish you and yours a Very Happy Holiday and we hope to see you at one of our December events or in the New Year at the Augusta, 175 East Main Street, Meriden. The ACCC is in the heart of it all and in the heart of the arts!!
________________________________________________________________________________
The Christmas Spirit
By Dorothy Gonick
Long ago and far away in a small village, the local priest Father Nicholas, sat watching the last rays of sunlight fade and then saw the first star glitter in the darkened sky. This star reminded him of that glorious star that shone many years before as it hovered over the stable where the Christ child was born. How he wished he could have been there to welcome and worship Jesus, he began wondering what gift he would have chosen for that honor?
The time for celebrating the Christ mass was approaching and a longing formed in his heart to give a special gift to Jesus for His coming birthday. As he mulled over this question, he recalled the scripture verse stating that ‘Whatsoever ye do to the least of these, ye do unto Me.’. There were many ‘least persons’ in his flock who were struggling with life’s problems; who would he choose? In the days following, a decision was made to toss gold coins into the home of a certain poor family who couldn’t afford the dowry for the daughters who wished to marry.
Venturing out into that silent Christmas Eve while the villagers slept soundly, he gave a skillful toss to the coins and watched as they dropped into the yawning chimney. With a happy heart, Father Nicholas returned to his hearth silently singing a thankful greeting to Jesus, asking for His blessing to be on all his parishioners.
Unbeknownst to Father Nicholas, the gold coins fell into one of the maiden’s stockings that had been hung by the hearth to dry. Her surprise was great as she showed the treasure to her family. They made haste to attend the Christmas mass and give thanks for this Christmas miracle that morning. The wonderful news spread throughout the village and was often spoken about through the year. Each Christmas Eve, Father Nicholas chose wisely the Christ Child gift, and soon the parishioners began surmising that he was the secretive giver. The little children loved his cheery smile and friendly greeting whenever they met him. Some were audacious enough to call him Father Christmas. A name that children in far parts of the world still call him.
As the years passed, his long beard and hair became snowy white and he became plumper in shape. When Father Nicholas left the little village to become the Bishop of Myra, the children became dismayed once again, believing there would be no more Christ-Child gifts on Christmas Eve. The parents were unhappy to see how downcast the children were and told them not to give up faith, all the while quietly anticipating the miracle they knew awaited. That next Christmas morn there was much excitement and rejoicing as the surprised children found gifts tucked in their shoe or stocking and they joyfully thanked the spirit of Father Nicholas. And so it went, year after year with the custom spreading throughout the countryside. When the time came for the beloved Bishop’s spirit to leave his body, there was much sorrow, as he was loved throughout the country. Again the children were downcast, without hope of Christmas surprises. Yet, miracle of miracles, they awoke to find treasures awaiting on Christmas morn: The Spirit of Christmas lived! Ever since that day, children over the world look forward eagerly to the visit of Saint Nicholas each Christmas Eve.
P.S. Try saying ‘Saint Nicholas’ 3 times as fast as you can—whose name do you hear?
And now you know his nickname—Santa Claus! Merry Christmas!
December, 2003 Dorothy Gonick
___________________________________________________________________________
Our Christmas Eve Tradition…
I want to first say that this message is intended to be a happy one, but I do need to explain why, for the past 16 years, Christmas Eve & Christmas have become “bittersweet”, and the importance of maintaining traditions even after experiencing a loss, whether it be an expected or unexpected one.
Each Christmas Eve my family has a celebration at Mom’s house. Some of us attend the early mass at St. Joseph’s, while others stay back to greet early guests or keep an eye on the food. The guests include family, extended family, friends, neighbors, and once even a limo driver (more of that one in a bit). We all enjoy food and drink and conversation, probably with “A Christmas Story” playing on one of the tv’s. While, growing up, my parents were not big gift givers, they always remembered the 5 children with a gift of cash and a lottery ticket; not a lot of cash as we were by no means wealthy (in that way anyhow – but wealthy in many other aspects – family, closeness, etc.), but a nice gift regardless. Which brings me to two of my favorite memories…
1. The year when I was totally surprised with a Cabbage Patch Doll; it was in a big box and I was probably 10 and everyone else knew of course, but I was very surprised!
2. And, imagine the shock back around 1990, the year when my dad totally surprised the whole family when he gave my boyfriend (now my husband) a HUGE, industry size bottle of A-1 Sauce – also in a large box.
One year, Darren (my husband and I) ended up taking a limo to the Giants vs. Dallas game – we were so tired when we got home that Christmas Eve that we went into my bedroom to take a nap and mom invited the limo driver in for dinner! Apparently he stayed for quite some time!
In December 1992, everything changed. That had to be the absolutely WORST Christmas ever. A week prior, on December 16th, 1992, we found my dad dead in his bed after having a massive heart attack at the age of 56. I, the “baby” of the family was 20, a sophomore at University of New Haven. While much of that time is a blur, there are moments I distinctly remember, like what I was wearing to bed the night my sister woke to tell me what had happened. I recall what I was doing before I came home that night. I remember calling my advisor at school explaining what happened – I did return right after the Christmas break. And, the procrastinator that I am, I had done NO shopping for my family – or for anyone. I recall walking through JCPenney that year in an absolute daze trying to pick gifts out just days before we were to bury Dad.
But, we continued our Christmas Eve tradition that year and I’m glad we did. It definitely helps to try to get back into the swing of things no matter how hard it may be. It was not the most fun Christmas Eve that I remember, but our family was all together and for that we are truly blessed. I remember how I felt thinking, “why bother”, but again, I’m glad we did. I think it helps in the grieving / healing process.
So, through the years, the tradition continues and we have fun and laughs and a good time. We are trying to get into the habit of “picking names” rather than buying for everyone: To sister Pam: please jump on this – no need to buy a gift for all of us!
Last year a special memory was born when Darren totally surprised me with a beautiful ring in front of the whole family – he even had a little speech planned which was rudely interrupted by the vulgar talking parrot that Pam bought as a gift for her boyfriend, Bobby.
…Merry Christmas to All and Best Wishes for a Bright and Happy New Year.
- Rosanne P. Ford
_______________________________________________________________
Holiday Humor:
Submitted by Maggie (Della Rocco) Griffin:
A Very Good Friend Sent the below story too Me, knowing I am 100% Italian. This is ever so true, even during the holidays, and it brought back memories of my Family and Grand Parents. I had to read this to my Mother the minute I received it. Although every ethnic background has it's own tradition, being Italian, and knowing the dinner menu and the clean up work after the meal, is probably why I believed for so many years the after dinner Italian Mint was a peace of garlic. So here is how the story goes:
Sunday Dinner for Italians
Italians have a $40,000. kitchen, but use the $259 stove from Sears in the basement to cook. There is some sort of religious statue in the hallway, living room, bedroom, front porch and backyard. The living room is filled with old wedding favors with poofy net bows and stale almonds (they are too pretty to open).
A portrait of the Pope and Frank Sinatra hang in the dining room.
God forbid if anyone EVER attempted to eat Chef Boy-are-dee, Franco Amer ican, Ragu, Prego or anything else in a jar or can (tomato paste is the exception).
Meatballs are made with Pork, Veal and Beef. We are Italians; we! don't care about cholesterol. Turkey is served on Thanksgiving, AFTER the manicotti, gnocchi, lasagna and soup.
If anyone EVER says ES-CAROLE, slap 'em in the face -- it's SHCAROLE.
If they ever say ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP, let the idiot know that there is no wedding, nor is there an Italian in the soup. Also, the tiny meatballs must be made by hand.
No matter how hard you know you were going to get smacked, you still came home from church after communion, you stuck half a loaf of bread in the sauce pot, snuck out a fried meatball and chow down fast so you'll make up for it next week at confession.
Sunday dinner was at 1:00. The meal went like this...
Table is set with everyday dishes...doesn't matter if they don't match...they're clean, What more do you want? All the utensils go on the right side of the plate and the napkin goes on the left. Put a clean kitchen towel at Nonna & Papa's plate because they won't use napkins. Homemade wine and bottles of 7up are on the table.
First course, Antipasto...change plates. Next, Macaroni (Nonna called all spaghetti Macaroni)...change plates. After that, Roasted Meats, Roasted Potatoes, Over-cooked Vegetables... change plates. THEN, and only then (NEVER AT THE BEGINNING OF THE MEAL,) would you eat the salad (HOMEMADE OIL &VINEGAR DRESSING ONLY)...change plates. Next, Fruit & Nuts - in th e shell (on paper plates because you ran out of the other ones). Coffee with Anisette (Espresso for Nonno, 'Merican' coffee for the rest) with hard cookies (Biscottis) t! o dip in the coffee. The kids go play...the men go to lay down.
They slept so soundly you could do brain surgery on them without anaesthesia..the women clean the kitchen. Getting screamed at by Mom or Nonna - half the sentence was English, the other half Italian.
Italian mothers never threw a baseball in their life, but can nail you in the head with a shoe thrown from the kitchen while you're in the living room..
Prom Dress that Zia Ceserina made you...$20.00 for material. Prom hair-do from Cousin Angela...Free. Turning around at prom to see your entire family (including Godparents) standing in the back of the gym... PRICELESS!
The true Italians will love this, those of you who are married to Italians will understand this, and those of you who are friends with Italians will remember.
____________________________________________________________
The Story of Hairy Dog
by Wanda Ball
I tell you, when he came to me, he was all broken and shut down. He was just a mess. He was dumped on the side of the road in TEXAS, in the summertime. His little will to even take another breath was almost gone. His little body was covered with those horrible 1-inch burrs. The people that found him took three days to try to catch him. Finally they cornered him and caught him. They took him to their home and started his healing. They cut burrs out of his fur for days and tried to feed him, but it was very hard, too. To try to feed or water him was definitely a trick. He would cower down at the thought of eating or drinking without constantly being told, "It's okay, eat baby" or "It's okay to take a drink. It is here for you, precious." He would follow, but run when they turned to talk to him. It was a terrible time. They worked with him for three weeks, and finally Steve's wife said she was going to bring home a shot to put him down that last day. Steve called my husband and told him the story. He knew I desperately wanted a poodle. My husband told him to bring the poodle over to me because, "If anyone can help him, it will be Wanda." It took me three weeks of constant petting and reinforcing him that "The human touch does not have to hurt, little fellow." I cried and petted him until I thought my arm would fall off, but I knew he was in there somewhere, and was worth the effort. He started to respond to me. He weighed around 6 pounds when I received him, and he gained pound after healthy pound until he finally reached his normal weight, 14 pounds!!
It took two years of reinforcement for him to finally walk up to the food bowl and take his first bite, without fear, and then he drank. I, of course, cried...God love him. When I first got him, I couldn't just call him little fellow or boy, so I called him what he was...a Hairy Dog. So, his story of fun starts.
Hairy Dog had many fur brothers and sisters there at my house in Texas. He learned how much love there is to go around. He made many human friends, too. Everyone that met him was so impressed with him. He'd come a long way. People always told me how well behaved he was. And Hairy Dog loved the limelight..He danced on his hinds legs like a ballerina, he fetched, he shook hands. He knew sit and lay. He knew how to go around that and come over here. He was amazing! He loved all the other fur brothers and sisters he had there, too. He would even comfort them and reinforce their ability to be happy there. We fostered many a dog back then. He welcomed them all. He loved to travel, too. We went from the Dallas area to Port Arthur and visited for six days. He made sure not to pee or poop anywhere people might walk. He went with me from down there in Texas all the way to Michigan, happily.
Hairy Dog learned very quickly, once I got him to "wake up." He enjoyed being loved. He wasn't sure where all this good stuff was coming from, but he soon learned he could once again trust......me! He trusted me! I was so in love with this little black curly-haired dog I just could not imagine life without him. I still stood at his food bowl and water bowl patiently for two years. I did it because he was worth it. He opened up to me in ways I am sure he never had for anyone before. He was also not the only animal in this household. We had two to six dogs at any given time. Most I kept. I had two cats for a while. One passed at an old age (14), hurt bad; and the other adopted a family up the road from where we lived. That was all okay. Hairy Dog slowly began to trust other animals. We also had chickens, pheasants, doves, turkeys, and parakeets. Hairy Dog seemed to get along with everyone. He loved all the doggies I fostered. He learned tricks to just melt your heart. He walked on his hinds legs, he twirled like a ballerina. He sat up and begged, if I told him to. He knew sit, stay, lay down. He was more than happy to do any of them at any time. He loved the attention, and to please.
We did get into an altercation one time, and we both learned a lesson from that! I had gotten some baby chicks. Aracannis. I found I had at least one young rooster, so I had to befriend him. I spent at least an hour a day with him. I called him My Buddy. Well, Hairy and another took to chasing the little bitties around in their coop. I told them to stop and not to kill any of them. I told Hairy Dog explicitly not to kill the one I called My Buddy. Well.....I came home to find Hairy Dog outside and My Buddy dead by him. I was livid and heartbroken. I found a lady that wanted a poodle dog and gave him to her. In a couple of weeks I had gotten Miss Cissy from the dog pound. She was so tiny and sweet. I was in love with her for sure. I came home from work one afternoon to find the police, animal control, and the vet clinic had all tried to get in touch with me as they had one of my dogs...hhhmmmm. I wasn't missing any dogs. Well, the vet clinic had told the police I reversed some of my dog tags in case someone stole one, they would recognize it and that it was stolen. Anyway, away I went to get my dog. It was Hairy Dog in jail! I went into the cells throwing the doors open, flying as I went. The animal control officer fell over laughing. He said, “Lady, there is no doubt in my mind, this is your dog. Give me $1 and take this poor little fellow home." I did......
We had many happy times there in Texas. Hairy and I traveled in Texas many times. We went from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to the gulf coast together and enjoyed just being together. He did not like to go potty in the yard there, so he held it for three days! Finally I took him into a local park where he did what he needed to. Poor baby. We moved from Texas with Miss Cissy in tow. Bless her heart, she was sick the entire trip. Boy, did she stink. We did the best we could and we pitied her. We finally made it to Michigan! What a wonderful sight -- our new home! We were so happy. He loved being on the lake, figuratively and physically. Hairy Dog learned about fish! He loved fish, too. He would steal a stringer anytime. He would jump up in the boat to get your fish right off the hook! He dragged in soft-back turtles and pike at two different times. He leapt off the dock to retrieve a 42-inch PIKE!! Wow, what a little giant he was. Another time he leapt into the lake and retrieved a 32-inch pike. I asked him what I was supposed to tell the vet if he got bit by a fish?! What a mother to let her boy get bit!! Lordy, he was a fun little guy. We went fishing one time with daddy on the boat and joined a neighbor. He sent me and Hairy Dog home saying he wasn't going to let us catch more fish than he!! What a delight to leave knowing we were better than him! LOL...
Hairy Dog loved to meet new people and loved attention. He danced a lot. He, a friend, and his sister, Miss Cissy, went to Indiana to meet Rikki Moses and his mom. Rikki Moses was a raccoon. He really liked Hairy Dog. Hairy just made himself at home there and enjoyed all the raccoons looking at him and admiring him. We went on many boat rides. Hairy loved the paddleboat especially. I named a cove here after him. It was a shallow, small cove. It was the first place Hairy Dog discovered a dogfish. We would load up with our lunches and water and music. We would paddle all over the lake. We got blown into the reeds once because the wind came up too fast. That was no problem for him. He loved the lake. He would run out to his daddy ice fishing and check all the holes for fish - too cute to see. He did steal a fish still on the rod and ran as fast as he thought he could until the rod banged off his rear end, and he shot across the ice like the wind! He just knew "it" was going to steal his prize, and he couldn't let that happen! Lord, no.
As the years started to pass, cataracts built up in his little eyes, and he eventually lost his sight, along with most of his hearing. I called a vet and found it would take a $1,500 deposit to look into having them removed, with no guarantee it wouldn't happen again. Anyway, his eyes were completely covered and he could barely hear, but he was such a trooper, he just kept going, knowing I would take good care of him. For the last three years of his life, he had to be right with me every second. I felt spoiled by him. He loved me so much.
Winter came, and he was lost in the snow. No more did he care to run and romp in the snow. When he was younger, we'd play in the snow for hours. He loved to run big circles and he'd stop quickly so I could throw a snowball at him, and he'd wag his tail, leap, and run another circle. Anyway, he would run into the side of the snow-blown path his daddy made for him. This was very frustrating for him as he didn't know which way was the right way. I had to leash him, but it only helped a little. He would get nabbed by his sisters because he could not see them coming. They would be so rude to him, it just broke my heart. The raccoons were mean to him, too. He did not deserve to be treated in such a manner. He got to where he'd just lay on the couch, and still he'd get bit and growled at.
I could stand it no longer. He had to have some peace. He was telling me how tired he was, and I knew he was. Well, I made an appointment to have him put to sleep. I could not stand it. It truly broke my heart. I talked to him every day about what was going to happen. I came to a Yahoo forum, Animal Communication, and got support that I truly needed.
The last day, Hairy Dog ran and played like he hadn't in years. He ran, jumped, and just plain romped in the yard. He smiled all the while. He truly lived his last full day to the fullest. Then it was the morning of.....and we all got up, and he went out to pee and poop. He ate a little and drank a little. He got up on the double recliner and laid by his sister, Miss Cissy (Jack Russell). They laid there together until it was time to go. I scooped him up and hugged him ever so tightly. We went to the vet clinic. Hairy Dog laid his head on my shoulder all the while we waited for our time. He never once tried to get out of my arms. We went into the office, and with his head still on my shoulder, he received the shot, and he went to sleep.
Hairy Dog is buried beneath my kitchen window with his sister that went before him, Blaze. I talk to him daily and miss him so very much. My heart aches for him. I know he is so much better off now, and it seems like he left yesterday...
This year will be the first Christmas without my little Santa Dog and Rein Dog in his sweet costumes. My sweet, sweet Hairy Dog.
Hairy Dog: November/December 1993 – March 20, 2008
Wanda lives in Sherwood, Michigan, and Hairy Dog came to live with her at approximately nine months of age in Alvarado, Texas.
“Sheltering an Animal’s Perspective”
by
Gregory M. Simpson
This is my first column about a book. Redemption, by Nathan J. Winograd, certainly warrants one.
The subtitle for this fine edition is “The Myth of Pet Overpopulation and the No Kill Revolution in America.” Published by Almaden Press in 2007, it needs to be read by every person concerned with making Connecticut a no kill state, and the U.S. a no kill nation. Connecticut is well on the way to becoming no kill, as outlined in the ten steps described by Winograd.
Trap-neuter-return (TNR) feral cat groups are one of these ten components. TNR deals humanely with cats that are generally one generation or more from being household companions and are wary of humans. TNR has come to national attention in such publications as USA Today in May 2008 and through the ongoing work of the national Alley Cat Allies.
Another ingredient cited by Winograd in his no kill solution is the availability of high volume, low cost spay/neuter services. In Connecticut, the mobile T.E.A.M. program (1-888-FOR-TEAM) provides these services along with a number of Connecticut veterinarians who accept vouchers from Spay/USA (1-800-248-SPAY) and Friends of Animals (1-800-321-PETS). Studies have shown that the #1 reason people do not spay or neuter is lack of access to affordable spay/neuter services.
Rescue groups working together to find adoptive placements free up scarce space in shelters for more animals. Connecticut is already in position for these efforts with the Animal Welfare Federation of Connecticut (AWFCT), a coalition of no kill organizations cooperating to advance animal placement in Connecticut.
Volunteer foster programs relieve space issues in shelters, as well. They are also the best place for orphaned or feral kittens, sick or injured animals, dogs needing on-on-one behavior rehabilitation, or animals needing a break from shelter life, notes Winograd. Volunteers are also invaluable in socializing animals, promoting adoption and helping with day-to-day shelter operations.
Comprehensive adoption programs are explained in detail in Redemption, including the statistic that only 15% of people obtain their dogs from shelters and less than 10% for cats. To increase those percentages, Winograd encourages aggressive adoption campaigns including weekend and evening hours and off site adoption venues. This can result in shelters literally adopting their way out of killing, as he demonstrated was possible while director of Tompkins County SPCA in New York state.
Winograd emphasizes that animal shelters should also focus on pet retention, i.e., the preventable reasons that animals are surrendered to shelters. He offers instructive ideas, including maintaining pet care and behavior fact sheets for distribution, free in-home dog behavior problem solving, low-cost dog training, pet friendly rental programs, dog walker referrals, pet behavior classes, and public education through the media for problem animal behavior.
Paying attention to medical and behavior rehabilitation is paramount, writes Winograd. He suggests creating a shelter fund dedicated solely to medical and behavioral rehabilitation, and establishing a relationship with a veterinary college to elicit volunteer veterinary care. Public relations and community involvement are other building blocks that he points out bring more money, volunteers, adoptions, and community good will.
Redemption describes volunteers as the backbone of a successful no kill effort. The no kill shelter for which I am a board member, Protectors of Animals, runs entirely with volunteers, as is typical of no kill groups across Connecticut.
Winograd believes that a compassionate shelter director is the most important ingredient of all. He points out that achieving a no kill community, state, and nation are not possible without rigorous implementation of all of the above services and programs. He concludes his book with this charge, “We are the generation that questioned the killing. We are the generation that has discovered how to stop it. Will we be the generation that does?”
Redemption eloquently outlines how to implement a no kill solution in America. It should be the guide for all those striving for a no kill state and country.
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. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was 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.
OPEN FORUM
Ask The Nutritionist
Wednesday ~ January 14, 2009 at Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC 7:00pm ~ 9:00pm
187 North Main Street, Wallingford (directly across from the library)
For more information please call (203) 269-2TLC or visit www.tlclisazola.com
MOVIE NIGHT
7:00pm ~ First Friday of every month
The Peaceful Warrior - January 2, 2008
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC in Wallingford is pleased to announce Movie Night beginning in January. Bring your own healthy snacks.
Space is limited so call to reserve your seat! (203) 269-2852 or visit www.tlclisazola.com.
BOOK CLUB
7:00pm-8:30pm ~ Last Monday of every month
The Law of Attraction: The Basics of the Teachings of Abraham By Esther and Jerry Hicks
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC in Wallingford is pleased to announce a Book Club beginning in January. Space is limited so call (203) 269-2TLC to reserve your seat or visit www.tlclisazola.com for more information.
LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HIGH-ACHIEVER TO ATTEND NATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
National Young Scholars Program Honoring Nation ~ Most Highly-Acclaimed Students Held this Summer
This summer, local elementary school student, Miss Keatyn Rish, took part in an extraordinary program sponsored by the National Center for Early Academic Excellence (NCEAE).
Miss Keatyn Rish was personally selected to attend the Center’s National Young Scholars Program (NYSP), which honors and recognizes young scholars for their academic achievement and leadership potential. Requirements to attend the Program are strict, mandating that every scholar who attends must be personally nominated by a teacher.
The aim of the National Young Scholars Program is to recognize students who, even at a young age, demonstrate a high level of maturity, as well as focus on and dedication to their scholastic achievement, and to enhance the leadership skills of these future leaders.
The NYSP curriculum was designed to stimulate the creativity of these young leaders through Discovery Strands, which are comprised of highly interactive knowledge building exercises and hands-on projects and activities. Each scholar chooses the Discovery Strand in which he or she wants to focus throughout the Program and is also presented with an extensive Leadership Strand that introduces them to and increases their skills in five key leadership areas: Communication, Team Work, Character Development, Problem- Solving and Self-Awareness.
The National Center for Early Academic Excellence hosts the National Young Scholars Program. The Program is held in seven states across the nation on the campuses of prestigious universities, colleges and conference centers. NYSP enjoys the tremendous support of teachers, principals and educators from around the United States.
A season for sharing…..2008
By Ernie Larsen
Christmas – by the time you read this it will be just a couple of weeks away; doesn’t it seem that the advertising or the hype for the season started a lot earlier this year? I remember while shopping at a local chain pharmacy seeing Christmas items on the shelves just after Labor Day – that’s the first week in September folks, ridiculous in my mind. Anyway, that’s neither here nor there; this was long before the government’s generous bailout of Wall Street and the announcement of companies closing with the expectation of hundreds of thousands of jobs being eliminated. And of course our new President, wouldn’t want to be him with all those big decisions to make, you know, what kind of dog to get the kids and all that truly important stuff. Absurd what the press focuses on when the economy is going to hell in a hand basket. By the way, what is a hand basket?
And now the economy – you have to watch where you are walking these days, don’t want the stock market to fall on you! Well, at least there was a little glimmer of hope this week when Barry made some Cabinet/Department head announcements and the stock market had a brief rally. But the doom and gloom is sort of overtaking the joy this season should be radiating. With many business cutting back and the whole scenario in general how can anyone be happy. I think you just have to put everything aside and keep a positive attitude.
Well, that’s just me, hope others are thinking the same way. Give it a shot, it wouldn’t hurt.
Getting back to what I feel is pertinent and reality, those who have lost or are going to lose their jobs; really no way to celebrate the holidays. I can’t imagine being in that situation during this season. I have had personal experience in the job loss area, a couple of places where I was employed went under whilst I was employed; never thought it would happen - the most notable being The International Silver Company, once Meriden’s largest employer and the premier manufacturer of silver flatware and hollowware in the world. And the place I ended up after that, after working there 10 years they sold out and I had a chance to move to Rhode Island or hit the bricks; bricks it was. Fortunately my spouse was employed and I made do, for several years, with some freelancing until I was offered a full time position.
So I truly can relate to someone who is or is about to lose their position, many may receive some type of severance package, however the stigma of job loss certainly outweighs any monetary compensation that may accompany the pink slip. Speaking of pink slips, I never received anything pink in my walking papers – wonder where that came from? If it is a mass closing, you might feel somewhat relieved that you weren’t singled out, that feeling may last for a couple of days and then you realize you aren’t going back to work. You are now a statistic and like many others in the job market. So what does all this have to do with the holidays, nothing really, however I think that we all should realize that if we are in a stable employment, family situation, we should take the time out of this all too extended season to share our good fortune, even a small amount, with others.
A good way to help others is to support a local food kitchen, they provide meals all year to those who do not have the means to fend for themselves….this is an ongoing program so the feeling you get by giving will offer a great feeling for some time. This is my choice for a donation this year; while it is my first venture into this sort of thing I called the director and asked what I could do, I had an idea and he thought it was fine. And after meeting with this enthusiastic group I realized they need donations all year round and as long as I’m able I’m going to try and donate on a regular basis, not just during the holidays.
Then there are the local organizations serving holiday dinners on Thanksgiving and Christmas – my daughter and I volunteered for a few years at the local YMCA and the last time the vols almost outnumbered those dining; they always could use either food or monetary donations. But do call to see what they specifically need, no use donating something that will not be used. We also used to bring holiday dinner leftovers to the local homeless shelter until they could not accept them due to health regulations. There are ample opportunities for giving – check with the shelter, used clothing is always in demand, especially in the winter, outerwear is a much needed item.
Whatever you choose to do, do something! The opportunity to give is endless; almost every non-profit organization runs on a shoestring and the holiday season taxes their resources to the limit. Another option, churches often collect non-perishable food to give to families who may need to supplement their pantries – a call to a rectory or church office may set you on the right track. And if all else fails, cash certainly is always a welcome alternative.
If you have the means, consider sharing, you never know when you may be the recipient of someone else’s largess. Do you think the foot soldiers working at Lehman Brothers or Bear Stearns ever thought they’d be on the unemployment lines this holiday season? Not for a minute and now the “generals” who got themselves into this mess are showered with billions in bailout cash, what gives? And closer to home, DHL Express, a local high end appliance distributor, Circuit City and what next?
I saw news story about SPAM (the luncheon meat) this week – I know it hasn’t gotten that bad but that’s the way some people think, doom and gloom touting this low cost food…sort of silly, I thought, but the economy is predicted to get worse before it gets better. Keeping a positive vibe is certainly better than looking on the down side with such nonsensical news stories. Think positively, keep smiling and have a happy thought for everyone you come in contact with.
Please, think outside the box this holiday – while you gather in the convivial company of friends and family, if you are able, why not help provide someone in a situation that may not be of their own doing experience a holiday that will take their mind off their circumstances, if only for a few hours.
You can make a difference.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
______________________________________________________________________________
Memories of Holiday Past
By Debra Belancik
I can remember total family gathers at my both grandparents homes, They were very festive and bright, It was lots of food and just old time fun. Presents were not a big issue. There were so many of us that you ate in shifts, In today's world, most every one gets caught up in the shopping and competition of the holidays, What we all need is just come together as a family and enjoy and make memories to share, Give kids the gift of your time. Thanksgiving day was a day to recount your blessings, not what you want
but what is needed.
Deb Belancik
Meriden Ct.
__________________________________________________________________________
What is your favorite thing to eat with your latkes —applesauce, or sour cream?
By Joan Goodman
Since The People’s Press likes to have polls, I thought I would have one too. Do you like applesauce or sour cream with your latkes? Or both? (like me) If you are scratching your head saying "What’s a latke?" let me explain a delicious tradition that is part of the Chanukah celebration in December.
A latke is a potato pancake, fried in oil, that Jewish people eat during Chanukah. The oil symbolizes the cruse of oil that the Talmud says miraculously lasted for eight days when the Jewish people rededicated their temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C.E., after the ouster of the Syrian-Greek army by a small band of Jewish fighters called the Maccabees. (Maccabee is said to have been the battle cry of the Jewish forces, and also derives from the Hebrew word for hammer, denoting great strength.)
There is also an Israeli custom of eating sufganiyot (doughnuts), another food fried in oil. In our family we learned this custom from one of my Israeli friends, and gladly added it to our celebration by indulging in jelly doughnuts.
There are several other Chanukah traditions. First, we light candles in a special candle holder called a menorah and say blessings. On each of the eight nights, another candle is added until on the last night eight candles burn brightly. Well, really nine because we light a candle called the "shamash" (helper) which we use to light the other candles. The candles are lit to symbolize light and faith, carrying on the legacy of Chanukah of hope and religious freedom.
Another custom is to play with dreidels (also spelled draydel) which are four-sided tops with a hebrew letter on each side. The letters are nun, gimmel, hay, and shin which stand for the first letters in the words of the phrase ‘nes gadol haya sham’ which means a great miracle happened there. The person spins the dreidel and takes an action depending on what letter it lands on. You play with a "pot" of nuts, candy, or pennies in the center. Nun is for "none" or the player takes nothing from the pot. For Gimmel think "give me" and the player gets what is in the pot. For Hay, the player takes half of the pot. And for Shin the player puts a piece into the pot. If nothing is left in the center and the players want to keep the game going, they can all put in a couple of pieces and keep playing.
Chanukah is actually considered a minor holiday in the Jewish calendar. It is okay to go to work and school. Chanukah became a "bigger holiday" culturally as Jewish and Christian people mingled more. Gift giving is one example. Originally, this was part of the Purim tradition (a spring holiday) and not part of Chanukah. Later, in Eastern Europe, families gave children chanukah gelt ( money) on the fifth night. And with Chanukah falling in December near Christmastime, gift giving gradually became part of the Chanukah custom although it varies among families. Some give small gifts each night, some for just one night, some give a check for a certain amount and let the child decide who the check should go to (e.g. a charity of their choice).
If you are looking for the perfect Chanukah gift, you can shop at Temple B’nai Abraham’s Chanukah Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on December 14th and 21st. We have everything you need for family and friends: cards, cd’s, candles, creative crafts, fun toys, kitchen items, cool mezzuzahs for kids, menorahs, adorable stuffed chanukah bears, and much more. Gift wrapping is available.
And if you want to find out what a latke tastes like, join us for a Latke Party on Sunday December 21st, at 12:00 p.m. I’ll be the one with the big plate loaded with latkes, applesauce, and sour cream - yum!
Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and Feliz Navidad.
About Temple B’nai Abraham
Temple B'nai Abraham is a Conservative synagogue which provides religious, educational and social programming for all age groups in a warm, extended family atmosphere. Services are egalitarian, and feature congregational singing. All are welcome. Temple B’nai Abraham is located at 127 East Main Street in Meriden. For more information call (203) 235-2581.
Sources: The Jewish Book of Why, by Aflred J. Kolatch; The Jewish Home Advisor by Alfred P. Kolatch; and Jewish Family & Life by Yosef I. Abramowitz & Rabbi Susan Silverman
_____________________________________________________________________________
My Favorite Holiday Memory
By Maria R. Tralongo
In order to tell the story of my favorite holiday memory, I first need to tell the story of a wonderful man and a friendship that spanned 14 years. That’s me in the photo with my old boss, J. Michael Purcell, CPA.
On February 12, 2008, my friend and mentor, the man who made it possible for me to return to school and the one who delivered coffee to me every day (especially when prompted by the photo of an empty coffee cup sent to his cell phone) went into the hospital with an abnormal brain MRI. Suddenly, the boss of fourteen years, who always stopped what he was doing to say thank you every single night as I left the office, was not there. Michael was diagnosed with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung. It had traveled to his brain.
James Michael Joseph Purcell passed away on June 10, 2008.
This seems to be a sad start to a favorite holiday memory, doesn’t it?
But, the thing about Michael is that he didn’t die a sad death. He lived his life joyously right until his last days, reveling in the first tax season in 35 years where he could sit in the sun and read a book. He savored his friends and most of all, his children, Danielle and Wellesley. He sent letters and made phone calls to tell all of us how much we’d meant over the years. Even in facing death, Michael had lessons to teach and gifts to give.
So I reach into my memory which is laden with special Michael moments for a favorite – the Christmas Day I spent with Michael and his family.
My family is large and noisy. We’re of Sicilian heritage. A holiday means lots of food, lots of yelling, lots of kids…did I mention lots of food? I knew what our holiday celebrations were like but had no idea what to expect at Michael’s house.
What I found was love, warmth and pure insanity. Michael and the family welcomed me right into the fold.
I entered the house carrying giant boxes of calorie laden Italian pastry which immediately curried favor with everyone in the house. It was a brilliant decision on my part. I also carried in dog treats and cat treats which made me the target of much furry love. By midday, I sat in a wing-backed chair with a cat on my head, a cat on each shoulder and three dogs vying for leaning space against my body. I was in a perfect position to watch a delicious day unfold.
Michael’s brother-in-law Harvey, an orthopedic surgeon, was wearing a sombrero, shaking maracas and teasing all the kids. Harvey’s wife Carol was in her traditional (and horrid) red holiday sweater. The kids were in cousin heaven and every fireplace in the house was lit and warm. Their tree was the largest I had ever seen and was placed on a stair landing as it spanned more than one floor in height. Michael loved to string the lights every year. He was the epitome of Mr. Christmas. Much to my surprise, as gifts were passed around to the family, I found that Santa had a lovely basket under the tree for me. I knew that Michael was my Santa.
The dining table was a thing of beauty. Incredible place settings, candles and a very formal presentation in a room with a blazing fire set the stage for a warm, intimate feeling. Conversation flowed and Harvey, seated next to me, constantly reached across to stab things off my plate as he was dieting and wouldn’t take helpings of everything. Michael sat at the head of the table, carving and serving, making sure we all had whatever we needed or wanted.
The trappings of the day were amazing, but much like the story of the Grinch, there was a greater lesson to be learned. If the maracas, the fireplaces, the expensive place settings and the supersized tree chock full of lights disappeared taking along all the presents, it would still have been a perfect Christmas.
The reason? There was love present.
It showed in the inclusive nature that welcomed four of us from outside the family as if we were a natural part of the proceedings. It was revealed in the genuine hugs and kisses that welcomed us all. It was in the laughter and joy at a wonderful day.
Every year of my tenure, Michael extended a holiday invitation to me. I accepted only that one magical time, but it forever remains in my memory as a perfect day. Michael taught me many lessons in our fourteen years working together, but the most important thing is that love is magical.
James Michael, thank you for all the memories and that special vantage point from the wing-backed chair which allowed more than a window into your life. That day really showed me how lucky I was to know you and have the benefit of your friendship. Rest in peace, old friend.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Brush, Cut, Donate!
By Kristin R Kovacs
Last month I donated my hair for the third time in five years. Some of you are reading this and know exactly what I’m talking about, while others of you may be asking yourselves what this means. What is she talking about? Where do you donate your hair? Who wants your old hair anyway?
Some years ago I heard of an organization called Locks of Love. This organization provides wigs to children suffering from long-term illnesses that cause them to lose their hair. A few years later when I was a sophomore in college, I decided to participate in the program. I had been dating Sean (who later became my husband) for just a few months, and I told him that I was planning on doing it. His reaction was one of surprise. He said that he had only ever dated girls with long hair and he wasn’t sure if he would like it. Needless to say, I cut my hair anyway.
When he first saw my haircut he was so excited and absolutely loved it. I have since grown and donated my hair two times and every time I am growing it out he begs me not to. The two more recent times I have donated my hair it was to a different organization. Beautiful Lengths, which is affiliated with the hair product brand Pantene, is partnered with the American Cancer Society. This organization provides cancer patients with real-hair wigs. Generally, you will need to have at least 10 inches of hair available, however different organizations have varying requirements.
Shortly after I donated my hair for the first time, I went back to school and hadn’t gotten around to getting the hair to the post office. I asked my mother if she wouldn’t mind sending it out for me. Things got busy at home and a few weeks went by and it wasn’t sent. One day she came home to find that our dog, Tibby, had climbed up onto the counter and clawed through my bag of hair! Luckily, she only pulled out a few strands and we were able to send the ponytail (right away!) to Locks of Love. We joke that Tibby missed me so much while I was at school that she was trying to find something with my scent on it!
If you are thinking about donating your hair, but are nervous about cutting so much at one time, I encourage you to research the organizations online. My second time donating I had let it get very long and was able to cut a foot of hair and still have some left over on my head! The most recent cut yielded my shortest haircut since I was a child. Luckily, when you have a hairdresser as talented as Vanessa, you don’t worry at all about how your hair will come out. It is daunting to think about cutting that much hair, but I can’t describe how great it feels after a completely new look is unveiled that was hiding under all that extra hair. So here I am now, with my new haircut and the most recent bag of my hair sitting in a Ziploc bag on the counter waiting to be sent off to its second life.
Beautiful Lengths has a statement on its website: One wig takes six ponytail donations. Based on the rate that I have been donating, it would take me ten years of donating my hair to have made one complete wig. That is a lot of hair! This act of kindness doesn’t cost anything except a little bit of bravery and willingness to better an individual’s life through a selfless act. Your hair is a part of what makes you feel beautiful, why not give it a chance to help make someone else feel the same way.
If you have any questions regarding my experiences, the organizations, or my fabulous hairdresser Vanessa, please do not hesitate to contact me at Woofus56@aol.com.
Releasing a Leaf
Old leaf, orphan of your prime,
suspended in space and time,
debating where to go,
I am your secret friend.
In the past, you green waved
to squirrels when breezes blew
through your arboreal home.
Your curved edges still sweep
from one to another, but
your ochre back is bent due
to loss and separation.
When I rub your bowed back,
you feel brittle, rock-ribbed, unbreakable,
but I could crumble you,
release you to living in
the shadow of your past.
However, I, an orphan
of my prime, also fragile
but rugged, also vulnerable
but strong, also debating,
will hold you gently,
release you into winds
also carrying you to a new home.
Alfred Mueller
Poetry 811.54, a group of local poets, invites other aspiring poets – high school students to seniors - to attend bi-weekly Saturday morning workshops in Wallingford and Meriden featuring readings of favorite poems, writing one’s own poems and sharing them in a non-critical, supportive setting. For locations, dates and other details, contact Al Mueller at 265-2445 or argusargus@sbcglobal.net.
Home Country
Slim Randles
Herb is a retired businessman, which tends to make the rest of us think he is practical. That wouldn’t be entirely accurate, however, as Herb has the silent soul of a romantic. How else can anyone explain his passion for archery?
Most nice days he can be found out in his backyard, terrorizing a stack of hay bales with a target pinned to it. Many shooters do this, of course, but Herb is different. In this age of compound bows which resemble portable gym equipment, sights that glow in the dark, releases that resemble handguns, and arrows made of space-age materials, Herb is a throwback to the old days.
He shoots a wooden recurve bow and uses wooden arrows. His fingers and bow arm are protected by leather rather than plastic, and he trusts his own eye and form to place the arrow in the paper plate affixed to the hay bales.
Dud was watching him one afternoon.
“You shoot very well, Herb.”
“Thanks.”
“Wouldn’t you get more speed from a compound bow and some graphite arrows?”
“Sure.”
“Well …?”
Herb smiled at him. “Dud, if I judged the fun of shooting by how fast I could get something to the target, I’d go in the house and get my deer rifle. It’ll shoot circles around any bow ever made.”
Herb hesitated a minute. “You see, Dud, if I hit the target, I want it to be mostly because I did it right and not some ammunition factory somewhere. I’m selfish. I want the credit … and I’m willing to accept the blame if I miss.”
If you enjoy these columns, invite someone home for dinner this month. Then let this paper know you did it.
The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce
NETWORKING, PROMOTION, EDUCATION, AND LEADERSHIP
Last month we shared some information with you on Education – one of the four principles that drive the work of the staff and volunteers of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce. We described this organization’s commitment to lifelong learning for those in our community – for both students and Chamber members and we highlighted upcoming workshops and SCORE counseling sessions. Always check www.meridenchamber.com for up to date community and business events!
Continuing on with the theme of Education, we remind People’s Press readers that each year the Chamber awards thousands of dollars to area students in the form of education awards. Funds for these awards are raised through the Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament (June) and additional fundraisers throughout the year by the Chamber’s Hispanic Member Outreach Committee. Some of the 2008 recipients are pictured here.
2008 Education Award Winners are shown above. Pictured (l-r): Chamber President Sรฉan W. Moore, Kayla Robles, Steven Lopez, Christine Stewart, Katherine Moore, Rebekka Chenard and HMOC Co-Chairwoman, Melonie Cancรฉl..
Not pictured: Brian Cofrancesco, Nicholas Ryan Green.
The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce will again offer the Sanford S. Shorr Education Awards to area residents in pursuit of higher education. Awards are given to Meriden residents graduating from area high schools. Another award is available for a student returning to college for another year.
Additional awards are available from the Chamber’s Hispanic Member Outreach Committee that was formed in October 2005. Applicants must be Hispanic Meriden students graduating from high school or returning to college. Over the past 21 years, over 65 awards have been presented to area residents, totaling over $60,000. The Sanford S. Shorr Chamber of Commerce Education Awards in honor of Sanford S. Shorr who served as an Executive Vice President of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce for 29 years. The winners exemplify the high values, outstanding character and dedication to the community that have epitomized the life of Mr. Shorr. Thus, the essential criteria consist of high character, service to school, community and others, and scholastic achievement.
Applications have already been distributed to the area high school Guidance Offices. They may also be downloaded from the Chamber web site: www.meridenchamber.com; Click on the Resources tab, then Community Services. The completed applications must be returned to the Chamber no later than January 30, 2008. The recipients will be presented with certificates at the 113th Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Dinner to be held in April 2009.
The four principles of networking, promotion, education, and leadership are the basis of the plan of work for the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce. We will continue to highlight one each month so that readers may become more aware of what the Greater Meriden Chamber is doing for its members and the communities that it serves. For more information on joining The Greater Meriden Chamber (all businesses who are located in the city, or do business, or plan to do business, in the Greater Meriden area, are eligible to join…call 203.235.7901.)
___________________________________________________________________________
NATURE AS A MIRROR
Dorothy Gonick
December 2008
BITTERSWEET
Lovely Bittersweet
Clusters of bright orange-red
Noxious vine.
There is a special beauty in the fall and winter days of the year as trees have become festooned with colorful Bittersweet vines. Throughout the earlier seasons, the vine flourished unobtrusively as it wound its tendrils along fences and other plants. Several vines may have twisted together creating an intricate look and a stronger vine. The small violet colored flowers with cone like yellow anthers began blossoming in late May and throughout the summer. Yellow fruits began forming and gradually turned orange, then red and darker. By the time the leaves have fallen we can see the beauty of the Bittersweet as its fruits burst open to reveal the clusters of small, bright orange-red berries; each berry framed with three creamy husks. These pea-sized fruits are poisonous to animals and people, but the birds relish them and will add to nature’s beauty with their song and presence among the bittersweet.
New vines will emerge in the spring, either from seeds dropped by birds, or spread laterally from orange root suckers. We usually don’t consider these suckers welcome as some plants may become strangled by the vine. If left to mature, a thicket of entangling woody vines becomes almost impassable. Bittersweet’s dark side of being poisonous has a bright side too: a liquid produced from the twigs is used in medicine as a pain reliever and also to treat skin diseases. Our favorite use is to harvest these colorful branches of beauty and use them in flower arrangements or lovely wreaths to grace the fall season’s festivities, and then later place them outdoors for the birds to enjoy as a wintertime feast, creating another lovely sight.
When the ground becomes covered with snow and the landscape becomes drab in color, it’s such a pleasure to see the red berries of bittersweet dancing cheerily above the snow-covered ground. There are times in our lives when prospects seem as bleak as winter’s weather when we are cheered by the unexpected help of a kindhearted friend. It is heartwarming to know that a smile, friendly greeting or phone call may brighten a troubled heart, much as the colorful bittersweet brightens the harsh bitterness of a stormy day. Kindhearted cheeriness is welcome year-round, so let’s look for it and pass it on to all whom we meet. Have a good day!
_________________________________________________________________________________
WINTER
By: Brandon DiMichele
Snow falling from the sky as if we were French fries and the snow was salt, drowning us. Joy flowing through the children as they build snowmen. Snow angels dancing on the ground. Snow piled up to make forts for snowball fights. Snow packed tightly and rounded to make snowballs. Smack! As the first snowball hits the victim. The tasty aroma of the hot coco after a nice day outside. The warm cozy fire filling the room with light and heat. But hearing the shovels in the driveway is annoying. And the one thing that ruins winter the most, is spring, coming its way.
____________________________________________________________________________________
The *Magic* of Faith and Divine Inspiration
By Jennifer Jenkins
The *Magic* of Faith and Divine Inspiration begins with that famous yet small “mustard seed,” that seed of ripple effect proportions that we create when we connect with our true Divine selves by letting go of our false selves and coming to the realization that there is no separation between ourselves and the Divine Universe. When we speak, think and act from the heart of our true essence by focusing on our Divine qualities – Life, Love, Peace, Joy, Wisdom, Intelligence, Beauty and Creativity, we become, in essence, co-creators of a truly *magical* world, a world of unlimited potential and wonder.
With faith, there are no limits, except those we create with our thoughts. That is relevant to one very important spiritual law, the Law of Attraction. According to Einstein, “everything in the universe is composed of energy which cannot be destroyed; energy can only be transformed.” Utilizing modern day metaphysical philosophy, this “everything” includes the energy of one’s thoughts, good, neutral, or bad; it makes no difference. ALL thoughts consist of energy. What we focus upon, we attract. As we transform our thoughts from negative to positive, we elevate our consciousness to a higher spiritual level. By doing this, we create a positive outcome for ourselves and ultimately all of humanity, because of this inevitable and dynamic ripple effect of energy.
Already, I see people’s consciousness evolving. Yes, there is still fear and worry in the world. However, it will subside, and eventually end, as more and more people learn there is no separation between themselves and the Divine Universe with all that it encompasses, and that it will be their faith in the Divine coupled with their highly evolved thoughts which will ultimately create a reality of positive unlimited potential. How *magic* is that?
Some might say, only a child would think this way. Well, have you ever heard the expression, “He had the faith like that of a child”? Young children can teach us so much, if we would only listen and observe. It is young children who generally keep their hearts open to the wonder of *magic* and their minds to unlimited possibilities. After all, the reality of Disneyland and subsequent Disney creations began with the dreams of a small child named Walt Disney. During his early childhood years, Disney doodled endlessly and later transformed his visionary work into the Disney creations, including that of “Magic Kingdom,” which society has enjoyed for years. Disney kept his heart open; his thoughts elevated, and ultimately transformed not only himself into a creative genius but the World as well. He had faith in his dreams, but most importantly he had faith in the Divine and the power of prayer for inspiration and guidance. The life of Walt Disney is a true example of the *magical* power of faith and all the good it can create in one’s life and the lives of others.
What will you create for yourself and others? What are you creating now in your life? You don’t have to be famous to leave an impressionable mark on this world. Just think of all the innovative technologies, health cures, humanitarian organizations, works of art and literature, as well as new jobs, new companies, and new economic, political and social systems that have yet to be Divinely inspired and, as a result, brought into “physical form” to prosper all. It starts with that small yet *magical* mustard seed. So, why not enter the portal of faith and Divine inspiration to plant your *magical* mustard seed. The portal is open year round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is always surrounded by the Angels of Light and Love. Blessings to all who enter it.
To read THE PEOPLES PRESS in image or pdf forms go to www.peoplespressnews.com. We are a community newspaper serving Meriden, Wallingford and all of central Connecticut.
My Uncle Hugo Bandecchi, The Last of a Generation
By his niece, Ruth M. Petrucci
My grandparents Nello and Edvige Bandecchi had four children, Miris, Iris, Hugo and Edward. As life goes there is a beginning and an end to everything. On July 7, 2008 my Uncle Hugo passed away at the age of 87, he was the last of a generation. He was pre-deceased by his sister, my mother Miris in June 2003, his sister Iris, my aunt in August, 1985 and a younger brother Edward my uncle in April, 1978. Uncle Hugo was born on May 11, 1921 in Wallingford where he grew up.
He graduated from Wilcox Tech in Meriden where he worked as a silversmith, doing chaser designing. This is an intricate work done on copper. He was also an apprentice at Elmore Silver Company in Meriden.
He joined the National Guard and was in Florida when he was called to duty on February 28, 1941 when World War 2 began. He was a Tech Sergeant in the Army Infantry with KC 102 43rd Division. He also spent some time in Africa where he contracted malaria. He was discharged from the Army on October 6, 1945 at Camp Adair, Oregon.
He worked at Wallace Silversmith in Wallingford, where he was the manager of the hollow ware division from 1960-1983 when he retired on May 30th of that year.
After he retired he enjoyed working at home doing chasing designing. He made many beautiful plaques of Jesus, Mary, praying hands, roses and other too numerous to mention. I always admired the great talent he had. I was fortunate to be given a wood carving of the Pieta by him just before he passed away.
He also had a talent of playing the guitar and the accordion. Eleanore said he got out of helping with the dishes every night by serenading her after their dinner. She also said it was worth it to hear the beautiful music while she worked.
He also had a talent of playing the guitar and the accordion. Eleanore said he got out of helping with the dishes every night by serenading her after their dinner. She also said it was worth it to hear the beautiful music while she worked.
He enjoyed working in his yard and knew just when to plant the herbs and tomatoes each year. He made many delicious Italian dishes; one was tripe that I truly loved. He cured ham, made anchovies, parsley and garlic in olive oil that was magnificent on Italian bread, tomato sauce, but when he married Eleanore he didn’t have to do much cooking, since she was also a terrific cook.
I have many wonder memories of my Uncle; he spent many Fourth of July’s and Memorial Days my house with his wife Eleanore, we always ended up playing jarts in the back yard. They spent Thanksgiving with us and we would always end up reminiscing about the olden days and have many good laughs.
Setback was one of our favorite card games. Tom and I also spent many good times with them at their house in Southington. He was great for remembering and telling jokes. Whenever we would speak on the phone he always had a joke to tell and had a good sense of humor.
We went to many Apple Festivals in Southington, it was a yearly event that we look forward to. We also enjoyed a cold beer while watching the parade.
He was a member of the VFW in Southington where he played bocci. He was well liked and a good friend to everyone.
He would have been married to Eleanore 28 years on July 18, 2008. He missed that milestone by 12 days. He is the last of the generation, he is gone but will not be forgotten, his memory will live on in all our hearts.
“Maggie’s Corner”
For The Love of a Mother and Father,
Two People Who Create A Family, Who Are The Hearts
That Bring You Back Home for the Holidays and
Every Day In Your Heart And Memory of Memories.
By: Maggie Griffin
I have to admit, The People’s Press is the only place where I can write about the true meaning of life rather than Real Estate. The publishers of The People’s Press gave me a gift by creating Maggie’s Corner. There is a reason they gave me this gift. You see, Andy and Dawn, who are the publishers, believe in making a difference to everyone who read this paper. Through them, many people have been inspired with the gift of Wisdom by reading The People’s Press.
As I said in a previous column, Real Estate is my job, which is what I love to do. To be successful at what anyone does in the employment arena, you truly need to have a passion for what you do for a living. As my Father once said to me, “all it takes is a dream and the courage to make it happen”.
But in my life, there is nothing that means more to me then my family. Where there is family, there is hope. Where there is family, there is someone there that always dries the tears from our eyes. Where there are sisters and brothers, somehow sisters and brothers help each other turn lies back into truth again. It’s all because Family needs each other.
People often wonder, with all the life challenges I faced, how I got through it all with more challenges to come I am sure. Life is a challenge; however, someone recently told me that all of us have the power to change, change to make our lives healthier and happier. This person is a success in the Medical Field.
I am about to tell you what helps me get through my challenges in life in hopes it helps everyone who has faced challenges in one way, shape of form.
Imagine all the people in the world, what if there is no Heaven, what if there is no hell? We all live for today, in a world of dreams, hoping to live life in peace and happiness. But as adults, we tend to forget where we came from and who taught us the meaning of life since birth.
For the Love of a Mother and Father, I can’t remember when my parents weren’t there. They taught me everything I know. In my family, we’ve been through everything there is. But, we always stood high and strong together. My parents taught me to never be afraid. They always would say the only people you can trust are family. Looking back, remembering, I am glad I listened to my parents. They taught me how to pass on the Love of a Mother and Father to my children. Someday, my children will also pass on what I am teaching them today to their children and so on.
When we pray, sometimes we have no proof nobody can hear, but someone up there is listening. That tells me there is a Heaven. Miracles do happen, all you need to do is believe and have faith. In due time, prayers are answered in trouble times.
This is where I love the song Hero. Believe it or not, in our hearts, we are all heroes, all we need to do is look inside our heart, not be afraid, and any sorrow many of us face, will walk away. Stay strong through any challenges, keep having faith, then you will see the answer in time.
When it comes to parents, our parents, no matter what, they are always there, alive or a parent who has passed away. You see, I learned, when I lost my Dad, he lives within me, my sisters and brothers. My Father and my Mother’s teaching is what my siblings and I pass along to our children. A parent will always protect their child, with unconditional love. Kids today may not realize how important a parent’s love is. But will realize it when they have children and understanding how the Love of a Mother and Father lives within our children. Parents have faith in what their children do, but no matter what they do, the Love of a Mother and Father will always be there with love that is so strong, a love that is unselfish, they will just always be there.
With every moment in time, each day we live, we all want it to be a day to give the best of us to our children and to the world in general. We all had our hearts broken; we know how to rise above it. However, there is one thing that remains, what we learn from our parents, helps us as adults when in the bottom line; the answers are all up to us.
As parents, it is normal to feel the hurt our children feel. It is also normal that the Love of a Mother and Father want to take that hurt away from our children. But the truth is, whenever we feel hurt, we have to remind our children, and ourselves, that when one door closes, another one does open. Understand that everything in life happens for a reason. That reason is because there is something else better in store for all of us. That is why it has been said “Life is a journey”. This is something a parent already knows and comforts their children by letting them know, it’s ok to feel hurt, but it is even better when the new door that opens has something more special in store for them when it’s wide opened.
We all try to live to be the very best, we all have made life’s plans, and we all took every chance that was brought to our tables. When opportunities were taken from me, I rose above the hurt and disappointment, just by remembering what my parents taught me, leaving me making every moment, one moment in time to remember, moments that turned out even better.
It is hard for parents to let their kids go as they grow too. Watching my children growing up so fast, I remind them how much I love them every day, and they know I never want to miss a thing they do. I am positive that goes for every Mother and Father out there. Time flies as our kids grow, there is only one moment of each moment we live for our children and watch them grow to be adults and parents themselves.
In my daughter’s eyes, everyone is equal. Everything became clearer to me the day she was born; she gave me the gift of motherhood the moment she was conceived. The minute I first held my daughter in my arms, I saw the light through her eyes. Now, I see the reflection of me through my daughter.
In my son’s eyes, I see if he can get through any challenge, I see a golden framed picture of when I took every opportunity that came across my table. Through my son, he shows me to never doubt miracles, just by listening to him and seeing his courage to make a dream possible.
I can only imagine what my children’s future will be like. But, there is one thing I know. For the Love of a Mother and Father, no matter what path my children choose, they know right from wrong and they have proven to me that anything is possible if you just believe and have faith. Funny, my parents told me the same thing my children show me today, that only proves I am passing on my parents teachings to my children. But they also know that home is not just a place to sleep, eat and shower, it is also a place in their hearts that has a place where Mom and Dad, Sister and Brother remain forever.
My Mom is still alive and well. My Dad passed away. But there is one thing they both showed me, my sisters and brothers. They showed us how to live, love, laugh and cry. They showed us how to live every moment in time. Sometimes we take advantage of the ones we love the most. But when the time comes when we discover something is wrong or we move far away, that is when we realize what life is all about, our family. I am very happy for what my parents taught me. Through my parents, as a parent myself now, I continue to pass along all the advice, strength, love and happiness to my children as they grow, in every stage of their lives.
Never assume how anyone raises their children and how children are being raised. What matters is a Happy Family who is there for each other, through good times and bad times, sickness and health, rich or poor.
For the Love of a Mother and Father, sister and brother, our children, together, a family can only understand tears, fears and worries without making assumptions or accusations; two things that can hurt people. How we handle assumptions and accusations can be different in everyone. Understand, don’t assume.
Children, young and older adults - love your Mother and Father as your Mother and Father love you. You will understand the meaning of The Love of a Mother and Father, two people who dry your tears, clear your mind when you are confused, and are there for you unconditionally. Parents are the people who hold you up, give you dignity and strength and stand you on a pedestal, no matter how old they are, no matter how old you are. They are the ones that will hold your hand and take you home again when you are lost. Think about this phrase again….. “Take you home again”.
Home is not just a roof and four walls; it is a place in your heart that will remain forever no matter where you are or where you go. And Parents do hold children in their hearts too, no matter where their child is. Through Family, we live in each other’s hearts more than we live in four walls and a roof. Through the toughest times, look back at every moment in time in your life with your Mother and Father, siblings and even grandparents. When you do that, you are home again with your family.
This world is a challenging place to live in. Along with the bad, there is always the good. Remember the greatest of times with your family, the love you have in your hearts for your family. If you can do this, believe it or not, no matter where you are, remembering will keep you safe, sound and suddenly you are home again and that new door starts to open for you.
Don’t ever let anyone in this world take you down through their words, opinions and assumptions. Rumors and untruths about anyone is a terrible thing, we all know this. The good news about people who say such terrible things about another is they do that because they probably have their own issues they wish not to discuss or let be known. Stay strong and wise, show no fear and keep your head up high. That sets an example of strength and courage our children will learn from. Like my parents would preach to me, rather than giving up, give more. When anyone can do that, everything turns around in favor of you. As for family, every family has its ups and downs – that is why there is no such thing as the TV shows in the past called “The Brady Bunch” or “Leave It to Beaver”; if only our world could be that perfect. That leaves me to repeat a phrase in a previous column I wrote: “Nothing is perfect in This World”. However, remember through ups and downs, families become stronger, live longer, laugh more and become closer.
When you have morals, strength and courage, just remember where all that came from, it came from The Love of a Mother and Father. Remember the one thing that cannot be replaced in this world is Family. Believe it or not, when our parents pass away, they still live in their children and in the hearts of all other family members. The worse nightmare a parent fears is losing a child. If that ever happened to you, even a child still lives within the hearts of his or her parents.
When life passes through your eyes during challenging times, it’s because you are only human when feeling this way. Understand three words of wisdom; courage, love and faith – together, the definition of those three words will get anyone through any challenging time, a time where we all, as humans feel, has happened for an unjustifiable reason.
Treat others with the same respect and sincerity you expect to receive. There are doors that open when other ones close, there is a higher power that hears us pray, there are reasons for every reason, there is the Love of a Mother and Father, no matter how young or old we are.
People know me as “Maggie Griffin”, the Realtor that goes above and beyond for her clients”. That’s true, and there is a reason why I go above and beyond for all people. It’s called understanding, experience and care, been there and did that in my own life.
When it comes to talking to cancer patients, I will run to take the time to talk to them, young or old, because I have been there and did that too. I know what it is like to fight for my life, battling cancer.
When it comes to losing a family member or a friend, I understand the hurt of loss; it is hard to get through a loss of a love one. But I learned, in time, we get through a loss of a love one when we realize our love ones who pass on still live in our hearts.
As a Mother, when it comes to my children, like my parents would say to me, “I will stop the world to protect my children and the world cannot stop me from doing so”. Life begins at the moment of conception. And as a Mother, a Mother’s love begins at the moment a child is conceived in a Mother’s womb. Without a Father; life wouldn’t begin in a Mother’s womb. For the Love of a Mother and Father is for the love they have for their children. That love lives forever. Thinking about my Mom and Dad, sisters and brothers concludes me to write the following that is small example of what keeps my heart home with my children today.
“I am proud to be a Della Rocco”. My Mom is Florence; my Dad is the Late Domenic “Dom”. My three older sisters, two older brothers and I understood as we were growing up, our famous phrase on Sunday dinners: “Una palla di carne รจ come una palla di carne”, capiche?” Then Mom would always say - Aspet!
My Grand Father, who lived with us, would make his own wine; it was one of his favorite hobbies. However, it took one of my older brothers and one of my older sisters to ruin our Sunday dinners for life. They just had to be curious and drink the wine, days before a Sunday dinner. (In this REAL LIFE story, their names have been changed to protect the innocent). To continue, Frick and Frack replaced Grand Pa’s wine (that they drank) with Prune Juice. Let’s just say they had to just put a spoil to Grand Pa’s favorite hobby (and wine) for days.
In later years, my father gave me the jug the wine was in (that miraculously turned into Prune Juice) to add to my glass bottle collection. Although valuable and sentimental, I had to do something with the jug because every time I looked at that jug, I felt the guilt in not telling Mom and Dad what my sister and brother did when they did it back in the 70’s. I left it to my other sisters to be the tattle tails. What happened to the jug? I gave the jug to my cousin Matthew, whose hobby is making wine.
Then there was always my favorite Uncle Tut, who said once; “If you are going to move to England, You Need to Learn the Language First”. Funny, he gave that advice in English. He always knew how to make everyone laugh.
Irony has it, when my Dad was riding in the Limo with me on my wedding day back in 1991, Dad said to me: “Why is it that an Irish guy has to marry my beautiful Italian daughter”. My answer was: “Dad, Tom is not Irish, he’s English”. He still cried walking me down the aisle. And what a wedding that was. It was a huge wedding that turned into an Italian Festival. Later that evening, Tom and I thanked our parents for inviting us.
But here is the best part of that day. Knowing my Dad and the “Envelope Bag” the Bride usually carries, it’s a good thing the limo driver took me seriously when I asked him to stop at McDonald’s between the Church and the Hall. That would have been a good promotion for McDonalds, even though my bride’s maids were in the other limo and couldn’t figure out why the limos stopped at McDonalds. This only goes to show I learned from my older sister’s weddings that took place before mine. “Never mind cutting the cake, get to every table with the envelope bag”.
And like the other weddings, Mom never left home without her portable sewing kit. All the weddings in the Della Rocco Family, someone’s gown would tear somewhere. To include, as always, when planning a wedding, the in-laws never agree on certain things. In our case, Tom’s parents wanted a DJ, my parents wanted a Band. So to make both sets of parents happy, Tom and I hired a one man band.
Looking at the pictures and watching the wedding video, there they are - my family, Tom’s family, the 20 nuns my Mother invited – now that I think of it, it’s no wonder the one man band had a hard time choosing certain songs to sing.
My point is, no matter what your family heritage is, no matter where you live or where you go, the love of a Mother and Father brings together a family. Through challenging times, all you need to do is look into your heart, your memory of memories, and you are home again with the love of a Mother and Father, a family of families, living or passed away, it all remains in your heart, giving you courage, love and faith through your journey of life.
Happy Holidays and Happy 2009! - Maggie Griffin
Happy Holidays to the readers of The People's Press and Andy and Dawn - the best editors and publishers of this terrific paper.
The Greatest Gift Of All
By: Maggie Griffin
Once upon a time there was a Mom and Dad to be,
They were due to have a baby, a blessing star to share their with their special Christmas Tree.
Anxiously they waited, the baby was overdue.
The Mom to be got big like a cow,
So big she could have said Moo.
She made a wish upon the mid night star to Heaven up above,
Shouting “I wish my baby is born before Christmas” as her eyes glowed with love.
Forgetting that the Dad to be had a lucky number,
He was in for a surprise yet to be seen by another.
Through the wish upon a star from the new Mom to be,
It turned out the baby’s arrival came on the day of the new Dad’s lucky number, seventeen.
The new Mom couldn’t believe her eyes, her wish came true.
The new Dad couldn't believe she was born on his lucky number....who knew?
It’s a baby girl, wrapped in pink with eyes sparkling blue.
On the day they took her home, snowing I might add,
There was Santa to greet the baby and hold in his arms with the Christmas Teddy Bear from Dad.
And before Santa left, he proved that a wish comes on any given day,
By telling us "All it takes is patience and faith, and your wish will come your way.
As Santa was leaving, he said it’s time to go to house number one hundred and seventeen,
So The new Mom shouted…
Thank You God, Thank You Santa, you blessed us with the best site we ever seen.
Then the family came over all to celebrate and take a peak.
Dad shouted “We celebrate two days of the gift of life during Christmas week”.
As the family was there, the grandparents said gleaming with a smile,
The day this baby was born was for a reason you had to wait a little while.
The Power of Prayer, the wish to the shining star, the lucky number….Wow!
And The Mom no longer felt like The Big Christmas Cow.
This little baby girl,
Who is now turning “Sweet Sixteen” ,
All their hopes for her as a baby came true like a dream.
But let’s not forget the lucky number, because she was overdue.
What a coincidence this little angel’s team shirt has the number 17, who knew?
To Top the Miracle of The Mother's Wish and The Father's lucky number,
She will begin college, at the age of seventeen….what a wonderful wonder!
Meditation
The word meditation comes from two Latin words: Meditari, which means to think or dwell upon and Mederi, which means to heal. In Sanskrit, the word meditation is derived from Medha, which means wisdom. Meditation is not a form of worship or prayer but is a technique that helps to develop awareness or a state of consciousness in which the mind is free from scattered thoughts. Whatever is done to reach a level of awareness is called meditation.
Published scientific and medical research has supported the benefits of meditation, although much still needs to be understood. Some of the known benefits of meditation include:
Improvement in general health
Increased immune function
Increased serotonin production
Reduction in heart rate
Reduction in blood pressure
Lowered stress and anxiety levels
Relief of insomnia
Improvement in concentration
Decreased muscle tension and pain due to tension
Decreased frequency of headaches
Improvement in chronic diseases
Improvement in post-operative healing
Reduction in pre-menstrual syndrome
Relief of phobias, fears and conflicts
Increased self-confidence
Increased joy and happiness
Self discovery
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC in Wallingford is pleased to announce the addition of a free bi-weekly Meditation Group on Sundays from 7:00pm-8:30pm starting January 4, 2009. The Group will begin with a discussion of technique followed by time for practice. No experience necessary. Sign up is required. Call (203) 269-2TLC to reserve your seat or visit www.tlclisazola.com.
Acts of Kindness
By Kathy Carroll
It’s no secret that many families are having a difficult time surviving. We are living in a difficult time. Many people are forced to struggle to put food on the table and pay the bills. There simply isn’t enough money to do both. They are forced to make a very difficult decision every day…Do they pay the bills to keep heat, electricity, and a roof over their head, or do they buy food, clothing, and necessities for their family? There are many organizations that will help low income families with their difficult times. They are invaluable to the many communities that they serve. What happens to the families that aren’t considered low income? I personally know a family that is considered middle income but have so many bills that it is impossible for them to make ends meet. Every week is a struggle. “Mary” must go to charitable organizations to ask for food for her family. While she does get help many of the times she asks, she is told that she doesn’t qualify for assistance any longer because of her income. She is forced to look for another place to help her. This continues every week. She asks for help, is told she doesn’t qualify, then is on her way to find another option. “Mary” feels extremely foolish and embarrassed to have to do this every week.
I am always looking for something to help “Mary” with her financial difficulties. One day, while I was at work, I asked friends if they had any ideas. I explained “Mary’s” problem and what she needed. As we were speaking, a customer heard what was being said. Without hesitation, he took money out of his pocket and handed it to me. He said it was for my friend. He wasn’t looking for recognition or a pat on the back. The knowledge he was helping someone in need was all he wanted. I immediately called “Mary” to come to my job. When I handed her the envelope with the gift she was speechless. She simply couldn’t believe that anyone would do that for a stranger. Thankful doesn’t come close to describing her emotion. “Mary’s” thoughtful stranger did this for her not just once, but twice! He handed me money the following week for her as well. Even though I can’t divulge his name, I can tell you this—Wallingford is lucky to have a selfless guardian angel working in it. I hope that everyone that reads this will take a hint from his unselfish act. If you know a family that is struggling, help. Put a small bag of groceries at their front door, slip a grocery store gift card in their mailbox. Even a small gift will let the struggling people know that someone cares. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
__________________________________________________________________
My Dear Paula
I will never forget you. It will be five years on January 8th that you parted this life form here on earth, but you are not forgotten. It was through The People's Press that I was contacted by a very dear friend of yours recently, and we have shared a lot of memories together. We have not yet met in person, but we have shared many emails between us. I hope we can meet someday. I was thinking about you tonight because of Christmas approaching. I so miss the visits at your shop. After almost five years, your shop sign has been taken down and the closed sign in the doorway that was in your handwriting. I cannot tell you how many times in these years I have gone down Center Street and seen your shop windows decorated the way you left them and your 
sign on your shop which read Paula's Place: Antiques and Collectibles. It is so strange to suddenly not see those things there. I always had this strange and irrational thought that as long as your shop remained there, that perhaps one day it would open again and you would see me and say, "Hi, Babs." I know that is illogical, but the hope remained. Jack told me almost five years ago that he thought you would live about a week, maybe less. All I could say was, "What?" I could not believe it then, and I still have a hard time believing it now. You made a huge impression on my life. I miss you, Paula. "To be continued," that was the phrase you used every time we parted. I believe our friendship will continue in the time beyond my reality now. I still feel connected, but I wish we could be sitting on my porch with those fresh eggs you delivered and sharing stories and you making me laugh. I'll never forget those days, Paula, never. I miss you today as much as I did almost five years ago. You live on in my heart and in many hearts, believe me. We will see each other one of these days. Thank you for giving me Christmas in my heart every day that we knew each other. You were a treasure that I am grateful I found. But I wish it could have been longer. Babs
_____________________________________________________________________________
A Grateful Husband
I am thankful that my wife’s (Ruth) knee surgery went off like clock work without a hitch. I appreciate the skillful hands of Doctor Kolstad and the staff at his office, the staff in the pre-op, the OR and Pavilion B at Mid-State Hospital.
She is receiving excellent care at her rehab and she is about two to three a head of schedule on her recovery. (Woman really can handle pain way better than man) or at least me.
I am also thankful for all the kind thoughts from our friends. Thanks to all and she will be back doing the laundry soon. Since she says you should not wash all color and whites together. What’s wrong with that?
Have a safe and joyous holiday season.
Keith Gordon
A grateful husband
___________________________________________________________________________________
Take Time To Socialize
Submitted by Carol Carbutti - Comfort Keepers of Wallingford
For many families, the holiday season marks one of the only times of year that all members can gather together to celebrate and enjoy each other's company. The portrait before and after this joyous time, however, is often far less picturesque for seniors living alone or far away from relatives.
As the aging population continues to grow - the U.S. Census Bureau projects over 88 million people age 65 and older in the U.S. by 2050 - memory loss and dementia in seniors are posing a major public health burden and it's often difficult for relatives to monitor that aging family members are getting the level of stimulation and socialization they want and need. But there's hope: According to a recent study by the Harvard School of Public Health, researchers have found evidence that seniors in the United States with active social lives may have slower rates of memory decline and lower mortality rates.
Given these findings, Comfort Keepers®, in-home care services providers located nationwide, has provided the following tips for family members to address with their aging loved ones this holiday season to ensure a happy and healthy time is had by all.
1. Link Up with Like Minds: Senior groups plan activities like exercise, meals, games and trips for seniors wanting to get out of the house and expand their circle of friends. Look into these groups with your loved ones and find one what best fits their interests.
2. Pick Up a Pen: Sending holiday cards is a wonderful way to spark a new kind of relationship between family members. Once these lines of communication have been opened, seniors will be more inclined to keep up with the correspondence long after the holiday season ends.
3. Get in the Game: Brainteasers, memory games and mathematical puzzles are not only fun but can employ areas of the brain that aren't regularly stimulated. Try a few with your loved one while you are in town and leave them with a few books or games that they can continue using after you leave.
4. Make a List and Check it Twice: Send your loved one a list of possible gift ideas for other family members and friends and review their purchases upon your arrival while helping them with wrapping. If you have the luxury of arriving prior to the holiday, accompany your loved one on a shopping excursion to select the perfect presents.
5. Hire a Helping Hand: If you are still concerned about your loved one when the holiday season comes to a close, discuss the possibility of hiring an in-home companion. Not only will this person be able to help with basic chores and activities but the companion will be able to provide much-needed social interaction for your loved one on a daily, weekly or live-in basis.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Thankful for Thanksgiving
Dear Readers of The People's Press,
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday -- even this year when the times have been so difficult for so many. One hundred volunteers served 400 meals to folks who joined us in the dining room of the First Congregational Church in Wallingford on Thanksgiving Day. They delivered 350 meals and visits to the home bound in Wallingford, Meriden, Cheshire, Durham and North Haven. They wrote more than 300 letters and cards to service men and women to be delivered with the Christmas coffee care packages that the Church sends. We went from no desserts the day before Thanksgiving to a table full of homemade goodies Thanksgiving Day. The Girls Scouts, Boy Scouts, CCD classes, youth groups, senior citizens, Rotary, and so many individuals and organizations come together to make this holiday the best it can be for so many. I am blessed because I get to see it all from beginning to end.
This year is tough. People are losing their jobs, homes and a way of life that once seemed so secure. We are at war on so many fronts. We are scared, angry and struggling with so many issues. I feel overwhelmed sometimes by the great need in almost every arena. I can't feed all the starving people here or in the Sudan and I am heartsick at the indifference, hatred and terrorism all around us. I am one person and I can't fix everything.
But, TOGETHER, WE CAN DO SO MUCH FOR SO MANY! Just one person at a time reaching out to another makes all the difference. Just listening to one person's story, just offering a hand or a hug when you don't have anything else to give, makes all the difference. Just taking a meal and visiting with a home bound person lets them know we care and caring makes all the difference.
So, my thanks to all of you who come together year after year to cook turkeys; peel potatoes; set up; clean up; serve; bake; play guitar and sing; give your time, effort, money and most of all give your hearts to be there for, and to bring out the best, in each other. I am so thankful for the memories we make and the joy we bring to each other. See you Christmas Day and please call my office if you would like to make a donation of food or money, adopt a family or volunteer in any way.
Thanks and God's peace.........Nancy
_________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Housewives - Central Connecticuts Know It All Gals!
Dear Readers,
Do you have a question regarding family life, budgeting, customer service issues, DVD or book reviews, or home organization? We will give you our candid advise from a family perspective. Contact The Peoples Press by e-mail or phone with your confidential question and we will answer it in the next issue.
Be blessed to be a blessing this holiday season. And, have a Merry Christmas, happy holiday and fabulous New Year! - June and Flora
Dear Housewives,
Is there really a difference (besides price) between generic and name brand groceries? Not quite sure in Meriden
FLORA: For some groceries there is not difference at all. In fact, many come of the same production line. Marketing wizards are paid a lot of money to lure us to a certain 'name' and package design. You also see it with cosmetics and even medicine. As for food, I say most is the same except for soda, I do notice a difference in taste. June?
JUNE: I guess that most things are the same whether they are generic or not. Sometimes a name brand company makes a generic brand themselves giving the consumer the feeling of competition. They figure those who are price conscious will buy their generic brand and those who want a name will pay more for their "other" item with the brand name. Either way, the profit is theirs for the taking.
You can look at the ingredient list and compare the two for almost anything. I feel that there are some things that are better quality when you get the brand name and even though companies want to create competition the generic is made cheaper so they can sell it cheaper. It comes down to personal preference all the way. And, when food is involved, taste matters.
Dear Housewives,
I have been getting invitations to various parties. The ones that sell jewelry, candles and more. I can't afford to spend $30 for a votive and a holder or $70 for some random necklace made somewhere and so not worth it. Ladies-Help me decline these invites graciously.
Signed, All invited out in Xville.
FLORA: It is nice to have friends to be invited to these parties. But why can't we all just get together for tea/coffee a light snack and hang out? Why does it have to revolve around some tiered marketing event? Maybe we can start a movement right now, inviting friends for game night or just hanging out. Let's start a 2009 event. Dear Reader, you can name it and start this. Maybe if June is into this, she will come up with some fun ideas, she is quite the hostess and knows how to plan events! June?
JUNE: Oh, thanks Flora for the hostess "shout out". We often get together with friends for "drinks and games" night. I think it is a great idea. I think for this reader the proper way to decline is to just say that she has other plans or that money is tight. Frankly, there is no danger in going since most friends that invite you should invite you on the premise that you may not buy anything. It is okay to go and look. Your hostess is making the food and getting the drinks anyway and you never know when you will see something you really want or something that is a good deal. If you can't buy tell your friend up front and if she says come anyway go and have fun socializing. If you are still uncomfortable just politely say you have plans that night.
GOOD THINGS
JUNE: Hi Flora, it is that time of year again. Some good things that I remember around this time are this: getting the fresh Christmas tree that will be in your home for a month, making a list for Santa, getting what was on my list for Santa, getting what is on my kids list for Santa, decorating with my parents, decorating with my kids, singing Christmas Carols as a kid (an now no matter how bad my voice is), the Christmas shows and movies, ice skating and snow. And, finally, saying Merry Christmas to friends and strangers alike so Flora......Merry Christmas friend!
FLORA: It is that time again, indeed. I too am grateful for so much.The older I get, the more I appreciate the things I spent my life taking for granted.
I love the Christmas movies (especially the old ones like: White Christmas, Holiday Inn, Bishop's Wife- I do need my annual fix of Elf though!), shows and this year I will go to NYC for a glimpse of Christmas, NY style. I am looking forward to see the stage production of It's a Wonderful Life.
I love the smell of evergreen, it could put me into a trance. Merry Christmas, friend and to all that read Dear Housewives. We appreciate you very much.
______________________________________________
AT THE HEART OF IT ALL!
By: Staci M. Roy, Executive Director of the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center
It really is the most wonderful time of the year and I would like to send out a big Thank You to all of you who participated in some way at our Annual Augusta Auction held in November. By placing an ad in the program, donating and item, buying tickets to the preview party, attending the auction, volunteering time or bidding on an item you enabled the Center to raise over 
$17,000 to continue our programming and events. The ACCC is beautifully decorated for the Holidays and we have Tony DeFelice, hairdresser at Catherine & Co., and Jacob Moss, decorator & designer of Jacob Moss Floral Design to thank for donating their time, expertise, & decorations. The Arts & Cultural Center (Meriden’s first Library) never looked grander, it is a must see! We are currently hosting our Annual Holiday Display and Silent Auction through Dec. 15th. All viewing times for the display and our upcoming events can be found on our web-site www.curtisculturalcenter.org or by calling the Center at 203-639-2856. There will be many events to enjoy at the Center in the month of December and we hope to see you at one of the following: Hartt Guitar Dept. performing on Sunday Dec. 7th at 3pm, Augusta Curtis Concert Band Holiday Concert Monday Dec. 8th at 7pm, Hartt 20/20 performance group performing Tuesday Dec. 9th at 7pm, and “A Very Murray Christmas” by the Murray Brass Quintet Sunday Dec. 21st at 3pm. Looking for a Holiday gift for that hard to buy for person, why not give them a gift membership to the ACCC? Memberships, donations, grants, and fundraisers are how the Center affords to keep the doors open so we could use all the Community support we can get. We hope you will come out and enjoy the Center during the Holidays, after all this is a gem in the Meriden Community. The Board of Directors and I would like to wish you and yours a Very Happy Holiday and we hope to see you at one of our December events or in the New Year at the Augusta, 175 East Main Street, Meriden. The ACCC is in the heart of it all and in the heart of the arts!!
________________________________________________________________________________
The Christmas Spirit
By Dorothy Gonick
Long ago and far away in a small village, the local priest Father Nicholas, sat watching the last rays of sunlight fade and then saw the first star glitter in the darkened sky. This star reminded him of that glorious star that shone many years before as it hovered over the stable where the Christ child was born. How he wished he could have been there to welcome and worship Jesus, he began wondering what gift he would have chosen for that honor?
The time for celebrating the Christ mass was approaching and a longing formed in his heart to give a special gift to Jesus for His coming birthday. As he mulled over this question, he recalled the scripture verse stating that ‘Whatsoever ye do to the least of these, ye do unto Me.’. There were many ‘least persons’ in his flock who were struggling with life’s problems; who would he choose? In the days following, a decision was made to toss gold coins into the home of a certain poor family who couldn’t afford the dowry for the daughters who wished to marry.
Venturing out into that silent Christmas Eve while the villagers slept soundly, he gave a skillful toss to the coins and watched as they dropped into the yawning chimney. With a happy heart, Father Nicholas returned to his hearth silently singing a thankful greeting to Jesus, asking for His blessing to be on all his parishioners.
Unbeknownst to Father Nicholas, the gold coins fell into one of the maiden’s stockings that had been hung by the hearth to dry. Her surprise was great as she showed the treasure to her family. They made haste to attend the Christmas mass and give thanks for this Christmas miracle that morning. The wonderful news spread throughout the village and was often spoken about through the year. Each Christmas Eve, Father Nicholas chose wisely the Christ Child gift, and soon the parishioners began surmising that he was the secretive giver. The little children loved his cheery smile and friendly greeting whenever they met him. Some were audacious enough to call him Father Christmas. A name that children in far parts of the world still call him.
As the years passed, his long beard and hair became snowy white and he became plumper in shape. When Father Nicholas left the little village to become the Bishop of Myra, the children became dismayed once again, believing there would be no more Christ-Child gifts on Christmas Eve. The parents were unhappy to see how downcast the children were and told them not to give up faith, all the while quietly anticipating the miracle they knew awaited. That next Christmas morn there was much excitement and rejoicing as the surprised children found gifts tucked in their shoe or stocking and they joyfully thanked the spirit of Father Nicholas. And so it went, year after year with the custom spreading throughout the countryside. When the time came for the beloved Bishop’s spirit to leave his body, there was much sorrow, as he was loved throughout the country. Again the children were downcast, without hope of Christmas surprises. Yet, miracle of miracles, they awoke to find treasures awaiting on Christmas morn: The Spirit of Christmas lived! Ever since that day, children over the world look forward eagerly to the visit of Saint Nicholas each Christmas Eve.
P.S. Try saying ‘Saint Nicholas’ 3 times as fast as you can—whose name do you hear?
And now you know his nickname—Santa Claus! Merry Christmas!
December, 2003 Dorothy Gonick
___________________________________________________________________________
Our Christmas Eve Tradition…
I want to first say that this message is intended to be a happy one, but I do need to explain why, for the past 16 years, Christmas Eve & Christmas have become “bittersweet”, and the importance of maintaining traditions even after experiencing a loss, whether it be an expected or unexpected one.
Each Christmas Eve my family has a celebration at Mom’s house. Some of us attend the early mass at St. Joseph’s, while others stay back to greet early guests or keep an eye on the food. The guests include family, extended family, friends, neighbors, and once even a limo driver (more of that one in a bit). We all enjoy food and drink and conversation, probably with “A Christmas Story” playing on one of the tv’s. While, growing up, my parents were not big gift givers, they always remembered the 5 children with a gift of cash and a lottery ticket; not a lot of cash as we were by no means wealthy (in that way anyhow – but wealthy in many other aspects – family, closeness, etc.), but a nice gift regardless. Which brings me to two of my favorite memories…
1. The year when I was totally surprised with a Cabbage Patch Doll; it was in a big box and I was probably 10 and everyone else knew of course, but I was very surprised!
2. And, imagine the shock back around 1990, the year when my dad totally surprised the whole family when he gave my boyfriend (now my husband) a HUGE, industry size bottle of A-1 Sauce – also in a large box.
One year, Darren (my husband and I) ended up taking a limo to the Giants vs. Dallas game – we were so tired when we got home that Christmas Eve that we went into my bedroom to take a nap and mom invited the limo driver in for dinner! Apparently he stayed for quite some time!
In December 1992, everything changed. That had to be the absolutely WORST Christmas ever. A week prior, on December 16th, 1992, we found my dad dead in his bed after having a massive heart attack at the age of 56. I, the “baby” of the family was 20, a sophomore at University of New Haven. While much of that time is a blur, there are moments I distinctly remember, like what I was wearing to bed the night my sister woke to tell me what had happened. I recall what I was doing before I came home that night. I remember calling my advisor at school explaining what happened – I did return right after the Christmas break. And, the procrastinator that I am, I had done NO shopping for my family – or for anyone. I recall walking through JCPenney that year in an absolute daze trying to pick gifts out just days before we were to bury Dad.
But, we continued our Christmas Eve tradition that year and I’m glad we did. It definitely helps to try to get back into the swing of things no matter how hard it may be. It was not the most fun Christmas Eve that I remember, but our family was all together and for that we are truly blessed. I remember how I felt thinking, “why bother”, but again, I’m glad we did. I think it helps in the grieving / healing process.
So, through the years, the tradition continues and we have fun and laughs and a good time. We are trying to get into the habit of “picking names” rather than buying for everyone: To sister Pam: please jump on this – no need to buy a gift for all of us!
Last year a special memory was born when Darren totally surprised me with a beautiful ring in front of the whole family – he even had a little speech planned which was rudely interrupted by the vulgar talking parrot that Pam bought as a gift for her boyfriend, Bobby.
…Merry Christmas to All and Best Wishes for a Bright and Happy New Year.
- Rosanne P. Ford
_______________________________________________________________
Holiday Humor:
Submitted by Maggie (Della Rocco) Griffin:
A Very Good Friend Sent the below story too Me, knowing I am 100% Italian. This is ever so true, even during the holidays, and it brought back memories of my Family and Grand Parents. I had to read this to my Mother the minute I received it. Although every ethnic background has it's own tradition, being Italian, and knowing the dinner menu and the clean up work after the meal, is probably why I believed for so many years the after dinner Italian Mint was a peace of garlic. So here is how the story goes:
Sunday Dinner for Italians
Italians have a $40,000. kitchen, but use the $259 stove from Sears in the basement to cook. There is some sort of religious statue in the hallway, living room, bedroom, front porch and backyard. The living room is filled with old wedding favors with poofy net bows and stale almonds (they are too pretty to open).
A portrait of the Pope and Frank Sinatra hang in the dining room.
God forbid if anyone EVER attempted to eat Chef Boy-are-dee, Franco Amer ican, Ragu, Prego or anything else in a jar or can (tomato paste is the exception).
Meatballs are made with Pork, Veal and Beef. We are Italians; we! don't care about cholesterol. Turkey is served on Thanksgiving, AFTER the manicotti, gnocchi, lasagna and soup.
If anyone EVER says ES-CAROLE, slap 'em in the face -- it's SHCAROLE.
If they ever say ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP, let the idiot know that there is no wedding, nor is there an Italian in the soup. Also, the tiny meatballs must be made by hand.
No matter how hard you know you were going to get smacked, you still came home from church after communion, you stuck half a loaf of bread in the sauce pot, snuck out a fried meatball and chow down fast so you'll make up for it next week at confession.
Sunday dinner was at 1:00. The meal went like this...
Table is set with everyday dishes...doesn't matter if they don't match...they're clean, What more do you want? All the utensils go on the right side of the plate and the napkin goes on the left. Put a clean kitchen towel at Nonna & Papa's plate because they won't use napkins. Homemade wine and bottles of 7up are on the table.
First course, Antipasto...change plates. Next, Macaroni (Nonna called all spaghetti Macaroni)...change plates. After that, Roasted Meats, Roasted Potatoes, Over-cooked Vegetables... change plates. THEN, and only then (NEVER AT THE BEGINNING OF THE MEAL,) would you eat the salad (HOMEMADE OIL &VINEGAR DRESSING ONLY)...change plates. Next, Fruit & Nuts - in th e shell (on paper plates because you ran out of the other ones). Coffee with Anisette (Espresso for Nonno, 'Merican' coffee for the rest) with hard cookies (Biscottis) t! o dip in the coffee. The kids go play...the men go to lay down.
They slept so soundly you could do brain surgery on them without anaesthesia..the women clean the kitchen. Getting screamed at by Mom or Nonna - half the sentence was English, the other half Italian.
Italian mothers never threw a baseball in their life, but can nail you in the head with a shoe thrown from the kitchen while you're in the living room..
Prom Dress that Zia Ceserina made you...$20.00 for material. Prom hair-do from Cousin Angela...Free. Turning around at prom to see your entire family (including Godparents) standing in the back of the gym... PRICELESS!
The true Italians will love this, those of you who are married to Italians will understand this, and those of you who are friends with Italians will remember.
____________________________________________________________
The Story of Hairy Dog
by Wanda Ball
I tell you, when he came to me, he was all broken and shut down. He was just a mess. He was dumped on the side of the road in TEXAS, in the summertime. His little will to even take another breath was almost gone. His little body was covered with those horrible 1-inch burrs. The people that found him took three days to try to catch him. Finally they cornered him and caught him. They took him to their home and started his healing. They cut burrs out of his fur for days and tried to feed him, but it was very hard, too. To try to feed or water him was definitely a trick. He would cower down at the thought of eating or drinking without constantly being told, "It's okay, eat baby" or "It's okay to take a drink. It is here for you, precious." He would follow, but run when they turned to talk to him. It was a terrible time. They worked with him for three weeks, and finally Steve's wife said she was going to bring home a shot to put him down that last day. Steve called my husband and told him the story. He knew I desperately wanted a poodle. My husband told him to bring the poodle over to me because, "If anyone can help him, it will be Wanda." It took me three weeks of constant petting and reinforcing him that "The human touch does not have to hurt, little fellow." I cried and petted him until I thought my arm would fall off, but I knew he was in there somewhere, and was worth the effort. He started to respond to me. He weighed around 6 pounds when I received him, and he gained pound after healthy pound until he finally reached his normal weight, 14 pounds!!
It took two years of reinforcement for him to finally walk up to the food bowl and take his first bite, without fear, and then he drank. I, of course, cried...God love him. When I first got him, I couldn't just call him little fellow or boy, so I called him what he was...a Hairy Dog. So, his story of fun starts.
Hairy Dog had many fur brothers and sisters there at my house in Texas. He learned how much love there is to go around. He made many human friends, too. Everyone that met him was so impressed with him. He'd come a long way. People always told me how well behaved he was. And Hairy Dog loved the limelight..He danced on his hinds legs like a ballerina, he fetched, he shook hands. He knew sit and lay. He knew how to go around that and come over here. He was amazing! He loved all the other fur brothers and sisters he had there, too. He would even comfort them and reinforce their ability to be happy there. We fostered many a dog back then. He welcomed them all. He loved to travel, too. We went from the Dallas area to Port Arthur and visited for six days. He made sure not to pee or poop anywhere people might walk. He went with me from down there in Texas all the way to Michigan, happily.
Hairy Dog learned very quickly, once I got him to "wake up." He enjoyed being loved. He wasn't sure where all this good stuff was coming from, but he soon learned he could once again trust......me! He trusted me! I was so in love with this little black curly-haired dog I just could not imagine life without him. I still stood at his food bowl and water bowl patiently for two years. I did it because he was worth it. He opened up to me in ways I am sure he never had for anyone before. He was also not the only animal in this household. We had two to six dogs at any given time. Most I kept. I had two cats for a while. One passed at an old age (14), hurt bad; and the other adopted a family up the road from where we lived. That was all okay. Hairy Dog slowly began to trust other animals. We also had chickens, pheasants, doves, turkeys, and parakeets. Hairy Dog seemed to get along with everyone. He loved all the doggies I fostered. He learned tricks to just melt your heart. He walked on his hinds legs, he twirled like a ballerina. He sat up and begged, if I told him to. He knew sit, stay, lay down. He was more than happy to do any of them at any time. He loved the attention, and to please.
We did get into an altercation one time, and we both learned a lesson from that! I had gotten some baby chicks. Aracannis. I found I had at least one young rooster, so I had to befriend him. I spent at least an hour a day with him. I called him My Buddy. Well, Hairy and another took to chasing the little bitties around in their coop. I told them to stop and not to kill any of them. I told Hairy Dog explicitly not to kill the one I called My Buddy. Well.....I came home to find Hairy Dog outside and My Buddy dead by him. I was livid and heartbroken. I found a lady that wanted a poodle dog and gave him to her. In a couple of weeks I had gotten Miss Cissy from the dog pound. She was so tiny and sweet. I was in love with her for sure. I came home from work one afternoon to find the police, animal control, and the vet clinic had all tried to get in touch with me as they had one of my dogs...hhhmmmm. I wasn't missing any dogs. Well, the vet clinic had told the police I reversed some of my dog tags in case someone stole one, they would recognize it and that it was stolen. Anyway, away I went to get my dog. It was Hairy Dog in jail! I went into the cells throwing the doors open, flying as I went. The animal control officer fell over laughing. He said, “Lady, there is no doubt in my mind, this is your dog. Give me $1 and take this poor little fellow home." I did......
We had many happy times there in Texas. Hairy and I traveled in Texas many times. We went from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to the gulf coast together and enjoyed just being together. He did not like to go potty in the yard there, so he held it for three days! Finally I took him into a local park where he did what he needed to. Poor baby. We moved from Texas with Miss Cissy in tow. Bless her heart, she was sick the entire trip. Boy, did she stink. We did the best we could and we pitied her. We finally made it to Michigan! What a wonderful sight -- our new home! We were so happy. He loved being on the lake, figuratively and physically. Hairy Dog learned about fish! He loved fish, too. He would steal a stringer anytime. He would jump up in the boat to get your fish right off the hook! He dragged in soft-back turtles and pike at two different times. He leapt off the dock to retrieve a 42-inch PIKE!! Wow, what a little giant he was. Another time he leapt into the lake and retrieved a 32-inch pike. I asked him what I was supposed to tell the vet if he got bit by a fish?! What a mother to let her boy get bit!! Lordy, he was a fun little guy. We went fishing one time with daddy on the boat and joined a neighbor. He sent me and Hairy Dog home saying he wasn't going to let us catch more fish than he!! What a delight to leave knowing we were better than him! LOL...
Hairy Dog loved to meet new people and loved attention. He danced a lot. He, a friend, and his sister, Miss Cissy, went to Indiana to meet Rikki Moses and his mom. Rikki Moses was a raccoon. He really liked Hairy Dog. Hairy just made himself at home there and enjoyed all the raccoons looking at him and admiring him. We went on many boat rides. Hairy loved the paddleboat especially. I named a cove here after him. It was a shallow, small cove. It was the first place Hairy Dog discovered a dogfish. We would load up with our lunches and water and music. We would paddle all over the lake. We got blown into the reeds once because the wind came up too fast. That was no problem for him. He loved the lake. He would run out to his daddy ice fishing and check all the holes for fish - too cute to see. He did steal a fish still on the rod and ran as fast as he thought he could until the rod banged off his rear end, and he shot across the ice like the wind! He just knew "it" was going to steal his prize, and he couldn't let that happen! Lord, no.
As the years started to pass, cataracts built up in his little eyes, and he eventually lost his sight, along with most of his hearing. I called a vet and found it would take a $1,500 deposit to look into having them removed, with no guarantee it wouldn't happen again. Anyway, his eyes were completely covered and he could barely hear, but he was such a trooper, he just kept going, knowing I would take good care of him. For the last three years of his life, he had to be right with me every second. I felt spoiled by him. He loved me so much.
Winter came, and he was lost in the snow. No more did he care to run and romp in the snow. When he was younger, we'd play in the snow for hours. He loved to run big circles and he'd stop quickly so I could throw a snowball at him, and he'd wag his tail, leap, and run another circle. Anyway, he would run into the side of the snow-blown path his daddy made for him. This was very frustrating for him as he didn't know which way was the right way. I had to leash him, but it only helped a little. He would get nabbed by his sisters because he could not see them coming. They would be so rude to him, it just broke my heart. The raccoons were mean to him, too. He did not deserve to be treated in such a manner. He got to where he'd just lay on the couch, and still he'd get bit and growled at.
I could stand it no longer. He had to have some peace. He was telling me how tired he was, and I knew he was. Well, I made an appointment to have him put to sleep. I could not stand it. It truly broke my heart. I talked to him every day about what was going to happen. I came to a Yahoo forum, Animal Communication, and got support that I truly needed.
The last day, Hairy Dog ran and played like he hadn't in years. He ran, jumped, and just plain romped in the yard. He smiled all the while. He truly lived his last full day to the fullest. Then it was the morning of.....and we all got up, and he went out to pee and poop. He ate a little and drank a little. He got up on the double recliner and laid by his sister, Miss Cissy (Jack Russell). They laid there together until it was time to go. I scooped him up and hugged him ever so tightly. We went to the vet clinic. Hairy Dog laid his head on my shoulder all the while we waited for our time. He never once tried to get out of my arms. We went into the office, and with his head still on my shoulder, he received the shot, and he went to sleep.
Hairy Dog is buried beneath my kitchen window with his sister that went before him, Blaze. I talk to him daily and miss him so very much. My heart aches for him. I know he is so much better off now, and it seems like he left yesterday...
This year will be the first Christmas without my little Santa Dog and Rein Dog in his sweet costumes. My sweet, sweet Hairy Dog.
Hairy Dog: November/December 1993 – March 20, 2008
Wanda lives in Sherwood, Michigan, and Hairy Dog came to live with her at approximately nine months of age in Alvarado, Texas.
“Sheltering an Animal’s Perspective”
by
Gregory M. Simpson
This is my first column about a book. Redemption, by Nathan J. Winograd, certainly warrants one.
The subtitle for this fine edition is “The Myth of Pet Overpopulation and the No Kill Revolution in America.” Published by Almaden Press in 2007, it needs to be read by every person concerned with making Connecticut a no kill state, and the U.S. a no kill nation. Connecticut is well on the way to becoming no kill, as outlined in the ten steps described by Winograd.
Trap-neuter-return (TNR) feral cat groups are one of these ten components. TNR deals humanely with cats that are generally one generation or more from being household companions and are wary of humans. TNR has come to national attention in such publications as USA Today in May 2008 and through the ongoing work of the national Alley Cat Allies.
Another ingredient cited by Winograd in his no kill solution is the availability of high volume, low cost spay/neuter services. In Connecticut, the mobile T.E.A.M. program (1-888-FOR-TEAM) provides these services along with a number of Connecticut veterinarians who accept vouchers from Spay/USA (1-800-248-SPAY) and Friends of Animals (1-800-321-PETS). Studies have shown that the #1 reason people do not spay or neuter is lack of access to affordable spay/neuter services.
Rescue groups working together to find adoptive placements free up scarce space in shelters for more animals. Connecticut is already in position for these efforts with the Animal Welfare Federation of Connecticut (AWFCT), a coalition of no kill organizations cooperating to advance animal placement in Connecticut.
Volunteer foster programs relieve space issues in shelters, as well. They are also the best place for orphaned or feral kittens, sick or injured animals, dogs needing on-on-one behavior rehabilitation, or animals needing a break from shelter life, notes Winograd. Volunteers are also invaluable in socializing animals, promoting adoption and helping with day-to-day shelter operations.
Comprehensive adoption programs are explained in detail in Redemption, including the statistic that only 15% of people obtain their dogs from shelters and less than 10% for cats. To increase those percentages, Winograd encourages aggressive adoption campaigns including weekend and evening hours and off site adoption venues. This can result in shelters literally adopting their way out of killing, as he demonstrated was possible while director of Tompkins County SPCA in New York state.
Winograd emphasizes that animal shelters should also focus on pet retention, i.e., the preventable reasons that animals are surrendered to shelters. He offers instructive ideas, including maintaining pet care and behavior fact sheets for distribution, free in-home dog behavior problem solving, low-cost dog training, pet friendly rental programs, dog walker referrals, pet behavior classes, and public education through the media for problem animal behavior.
Paying attention to medical and behavior rehabilitation is paramount, writes Winograd. He suggests creating a shelter fund dedicated solely to medical and behavioral rehabilitation, and establishing a relationship with a veterinary college to elicit volunteer veterinary care. Public relations and community involvement are other building blocks that he points out bring more money, volunteers, adoptions, and community good will.
Redemption describes volunteers as the backbone of a successful no kill effort. The no kill shelter for which I am a board member, Protectors of Animals, runs entirely with volunteers, as is typical of no kill groups across Connecticut.
Winograd believes that a compassionate shelter director is the most important ingredient of all. He points out that achieving a no kill community, state, and nation are not possible without rigorous implementation of all of the above services and programs. He concludes his book with this charge, “We are the generation that questioned the killing. We are the generation that has discovered how to stop it. Will we be the generation that does?”
Redemption eloquently outlines how to implement a no kill solution in America. It should be the guide for all those striving for a no kill state and country.
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. Currently a Board member of Protectors of Animals, Inc., he was 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.
OPEN FORUM
Ask The Nutritionist
Wednesday ~ January 14, 2009 at Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC 7:00pm ~ 9:00pm
187 North Main Street, Wallingford (directly across from the library)
For more information please call (203) 269-2TLC or visit www.tlclisazola.com
MOVIE NIGHT
7:00pm ~ First Friday of every month
The Peaceful Warrior - January 2, 2008
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC in Wallingford is pleased to announce Movie Night beginning in January. Bring your own healthy snacks.
Space is limited so call to reserve your seat! (203) 269-2852 or visit www.tlclisazola.com.
BOOK CLUB
7:00pm-8:30pm ~ Last Monday of every month
The Law of Attraction: The Basics of the Teachings of Abraham By Esther and Jerry Hicks
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes LLC in Wallingford is pleased to announce a Book Club beginning in January. Space is limited so call (203) 269-2TLC to reserve your seat or visit www.tlclisazola.com for more information.
LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HIGH-ACHIEVER TO ATTEND NATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
National Young Scholars Program Honoring Nation ~ Most Highly-Acclaimed Students Held this Summer
This summer, local elementary school student, Miss Keatyn Rish, took part in an extraordinary program sponsored by the National Center for Early Academic Excellence (NCEAE).
Miss Keatyn Rish was personally selected to attend the Center’s National Young Scholars Program (NYSP), which honors and recognizes young scholars for their academic achievement and leadership potential. Requirements to attend the Program are strict, mandating that every scholar who attends must be personally nominated by a teacher.
The aim of the National Young Scholars Program is to recognize students who, even at a young age, demonstrate a high level of maturity, as well as focus on and dedication to their scholastic achievement, and to enhance the leadership skills of these future leaders.
The NYSP curriculum was designed to stimulate the creativity of these young leaders through Discovery Strands, which are comprised of highly interactive knowledge building exercises and hands-on projects and activities. Each scholar chooses the Discovery Strand in which he or she wants to focus throughout the Program and is also presented with an extensive Leadership Strand that introduces them to and increases their skills in five key leadership areas: Communication, Team Work, Character Development, Problem- Solving and Self-Awareness.
The National Center for Early Academic Excellence hosts the National Young Scholars Program. The Program is held in seven states across the nation on the campuses of prestigious universities, colleges and conference centers. NYSP enjoys the tremendous support of teachers, principals and educators from around the United States.
A season for sharing…..2008
By Ernie Larsen
Christmas – by the time you read this it will be just a couple of weeks away; doesn’t it seem that the advertising or the hype for the season started a lot earlier this year? I remember while shopping at a local chain pharmacy seeing Christmas items on the shelves just after Labor Day – that’s the first week in September folks, ridiculous in my mind. Anyway, that’s neither here nor there; this was long before the government’s generous bailout of Wall Street and the announcement of companies closing with the expectation of hundreds of thousands of jobs being eliminated. And of course our new President, wouldn’t want to be him with all those big decisions to make, you know, what kind of dog to get the kids and all that truly important stuff. Absurd what the press focuses on when the economy is going to hell in a hand basket. By the way, what is a hand basket?
And now the economy – you have to watch where you are walking these days, don’t want the stock market to fall on you! Well, at least there was a little glimmer of hope this week when Barry made some Cabinet/Department head announcements and the stock market had a brief rally. But the doom and gloom is sort of overtaking the joy this season should be radiating. With many business cutting back and the whole scenario in general how can anyone be happy. I think you just have to put everything aside and keep a positive attitude.
Well, that’s just me, hope others are thinking the same way. Give it a shot, it wouldn’t hurt.
Getting back to what I feel is pertinent and reality, those who have lost or are going to lose their jobs; really no way to celebrate the holidays. I can’t imagine being in that situation during this season. I have had personal experience in the job loss area, a couple of places where I was employed went under whilst I was employed; never thought it would happen - the most notable being The International Silver Company, once Meriden’s largest employer and the premier manufacturer of silver flatware and hollowware in the world. And the place I ended up after that, after working there 10 years they sold out and I had a chance to move to Rhode Island or hit the bricks; bricks it was. Fortunately my spouse was employed and I made do, for several years, with some freelancing until I was offered a full time position.
So I truly can relate to someone who is or is about to lose their position, many may receive some type of severance package, however the stigma of job loss certainly outweighs any monetary compensation that may accompany the pink slip. Speaking of pink slips, I never received anything pink in my walking papers – wonder where that came from? If it is a mass closing, you might feel somewhat relieved that you weren’t singled out, that feeling may last for a couple of days and then you realize you aren’t going back to work. You are now a statistic and like many others in the job market. So what does all this have to do with the holidays, nothing really, however I think that we all should realize that if we are in a stable employment, family situation, we should take the time out of this all too extended season to share our good fortune, even a small amount, with others.
A good way to help others is to support a local food kitchen, they provide meals all year to those who do not have the means to fend for themselves….this is an ongoing program so the feeling you get by giving will offer a great feeling for some time. This is my choice for a donation this year; while it is my first venture into this sort of thing I called the director and asked what I could do, I had an idea and he thought it was fine. And after meeting with this enthusiastic group I realized they need donations all year round and as long as I’m able I’m going to try and donate on a regular basis, not just during the holidays.
Then there are the local organizations serving holiday dinners on Thanksgiving and Christmas – my daughter and I volunteered for a few years at the local YMCA and the last time the vols almost outnumbered those dining; they always could use either food or monetary donations. But do call to see what they specifically need, no use donating something that will not be used. We also used to bring holiday dinner leftovers to the local homeless shelter until they could not accept them due to health regulations. There are ample opportunities for giving – check with the shelter, used clothing is always in demand, especially in the winter, outerwear is a much needed item.
Whatever you choose to do, do something! The opportunity to give is endless; almost every non-profit organization runs on a shoestring and the holiday season taxes their resources to the limit. Another option, churches often collect non-perishable food to give to families who may need to supplement their pantries – a call to a rectory or church office may set you on the right track. And if all else fails, cash certainly is always a welcome alternative.
If you have the means, consider sharing, you never know when you may be the recipient of someone else’s largess. Do you think the foot soldiers working at Lehman Brothers or Bear Stearns ever thought they’d be on the unemployment lines this holiday season? Not for a minute and now the “generals” who got themselves into this mess are showered with billions in bailout cash, what gives? And closer to home, DHL Express, a local high end appliance distributor, Circuit City and what next?
I saw news story about SPAM (the luncheon meat) this week – I know it hasn’t gotten that bad but that’s the way some people think, doom and gloom touting this low cost food…sort of silly, I thought, but the economy is predicted to get worse before it gets better. Keeping a positive vibe is certainly better than looking on the down side with such nonsensical news stories. Think positively, keep smiling and have a happy thought for everyone you come in contact with.
Please, think outside the box this holiday – while you gather in the convivial company of friends and family, if you are able, why not help provide someone in a situation that may not be of their own doing experience a holiday that will take their mind off their circumstances, if only for a few hours.
You can make a difference.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
______________________________________________________________________________
Memories of Holiday Past
By Debra Belancik
I can remember total family gathers at my both grandparents homes, They were very festive and bright, It was lots of food and just old time fun. Presents were not a big issue. There were so many of us that you ate in shifts, In today's world, most every one gets caught up in the shopping and competition of the holidays, What we all need is just come together as a family and enjoy and make memories to share, Give kids the gift of your time. Thanksgiving day was a day to recount your blessings, not what you want
but what is needed.
Deb Belancik
Meriden Ct.
__________________________________________________________________________
What is your favorite thing to eat with your latkes —applesauce, or sour cream?
By Joan Goodman
Since The People’s Press likes to have polls, I thought I would have one too. Do you like applesauce or sour cream with your latkes? Or both? (like me) If you are scratching your head saying "What’s a latke?" let me explain a delicious tradition that is part of the Chanukah celebration in December.
A latke is a potato pancake, fried in oil, that Jewish people eat during Chanukah. The oil symbolizes the cruse of oil that the Talmud says miraculously lasted for eight days when the Jewish people rededicated their temple in Jerusalem in 165 B.C.E., after the ouster of the Syrian-Greek army by a small band of Jewish fighters called the Maccabees. (Maccabee is said to have been the battle cry of the Jewish forces, and also derives from the Hebrew word for hammer, denoting great strength.)
There is also an Israeli custom of eating sufganiyot (doughnuts), another food fried in oil. In our family we learned this custom from one of my Israeli friends, and gladly added it to our celebration by indulging in jelly doughnuts.
There are several other Chanukah traditions. First, we light candles in a special candle holder called a menorah and say blessings. On each of the eight nights, another candle is added until on the last night eight candles burn brightly. Well, really nine because we light a candle called the "shamash" (helper) which we use to light the other candles. The candles are lit to symbolize light and faith, carrying on the legacy of Chanukah of hope and religious freedom.
Another custom is to play with dreidels (also spelled draydel) which are four-sided tops with a hebrew letter on each side. The letters are nun, gimmel, hay, and shin which stand for the first letters in the words of the phrase ‘nes gadol haya sham’ which means a great miracle happened there. The person spins the dreidel and takes an action depending on what letter it lands on. You play with a "pot" of nuts, candy, or pennies in the center. Nun is for "none" or the player takes nothing from the pot. For Gimmel think "give me" and the player gets what is in the pot. For Hay, the player takes half of the pot. And for Shin the player puts a piece into the pot. If nothing is left in the center and the players want to keep the game going, they can all put in a couple of pieces and keep playing.
Chanukah is actually considered a minor holiday in the Jewish calendar. It is okay to go to work and school. Chanukah became a "bigger holiday" culturally as Jewish and Christian people mingled more. Gift giving is one example. Originally, this was part of the Purim tradition (a spring holiday) and not part of Chanukah. Later, in Eastern Europe, families gave children chanukah gelt ( money) on the fifth night. And with Chanukah falling in December near Christmastime, gift giving gradually became part of the Chanukah custom although it varies among families. Some give small gifts each night, some for just one night, some give a check for a certain amount and let the child decide who the check should go to (e.g. a charity of their choice).
If you are looking for the perfect Chanukah gift, you can shop at Temple B’nai Abraham’s Chanukah Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on December 14th and 21st. We have everything you need for family and friends: cards, cd’s, candles, creative crafts, fun toys, kitchen items, cool mezzuzahs for kids, menorahs, adorable stuffed chanukah bears, and much more. Gift wrapping is available.
And if you want to find out what a latke tastes like, join us for a Latke Party on Sunday December 21st, at 12:00 p.m. I’ll be the one with the big plate loaded with latkes, applesauce, and sour cream - yum!
Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and Feliz Navidad.
About Temple B’nai Abraham
Temple B'nai Abraham is a Conservative synagogue which provides religious, educational and social programming for all age groups in a warm, extended family atmosphere. Services are egalitarian, and feature congregational singing. All are welcome. Temple B’nai Abraham is located at 127 East Main Street in Meriden. For more information call (203) 235-2581.
Sources: The Jewish Book of Why, by Aflred J. Kolatch; The Jewish Home Advisor by Alfred P. Kolatch; and Jewish Family & Life by Yosef I. Abramowitz & Rabbi Susan Silverman
_____________________________________________________________________________
My Favorite Holiday Memory
By Maria R. Tralongo
In order to tell the story of my favorite holiday memory, I first need to tell the story of a wonderful man and a friendship that spanned 14 years. That’s me in the photo with my old boss, J. Michael Purcell, CPA.
On February 12, 2008, my friend and mentor, the man who made it possible for me to return to school and the one who delivered coffee to me every day (especially when prompted by the photo of an empty coffee cup sent to his cell phone) went into the hospital with an abnormal brain MRI. Suddenly, the boss of fourteen years, who always stopped what he was doing to say thank you every single night as I left the office, was not there. Michael was diagnosed with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung. It had traveled to his brain.
James Michael Joseph Purcell passed away on June 10, 2008.
This seems to be a sad start to a favorite holiday memory, doesn’t it?
But, the thing about Michael is that he didn’t die a sad death. He lived his life joyously right until his last days, reveling in the first tax season in 35 years where he could sit in the sun and read a book. He savored his friends and most of all, his children, Danielle and Wellesley. He sent letters and made phone calls to tell all of us how much we’d meant over the years. Even in facing death, Michael had lessons to teach and gifts to give.
So I reach into my memory which is laden with special Michael moments for a favorite – the Christmas Day I spent with Michael and his family.
My family is large and noisy. We’re of Sicilian heritage. A holiday means lots of food, lots of yelling, lots of kids…did I mention lots of food? I knew what our holiday celebrations were like but had no idea what to expect at Michael’s house.
What I found was love, warmth and pure insanity. Michael and the family welcomed me right into the fold.
I entered the house carrying giant boxes of calorie laden Italian pastry which immediately curried favor with everyone in the house. It was a brilliant decision on my part. I also carried in dog treats and cat treats which made me the target of much furry love. By midday, I sat in a wing-backed chair with a cat on my head, a cat on each shoulder and three dogs vying for leaning space against my body. I was in a perfect position to watch a delicious day unfold.
Michael’s brother-in-law Harvey, an orthopedic surgeon, was wearing a sombrero, shaking maracas and teasing all the kids. Harvey’s wife Carol was in her traditional (and horrid) red holiday sweater. The kids were in cousin heaven and every fireplace in the house was lit and warm. Their tree was the largest I had ever seen and was placed on a stair landing as it spanned more than one floor in height. Michael loved to string the lights every year. He was the epitome of Mr. Christmas. Much to my surprise, as gifts were passed around to the family, I found that Santa had a lovely basket under the tree for me. I knew that Michael was my Santa.
The dining table was a thing of beauty. Incredible place settings, candles and a very formal presentation in a room with a blazing fire set the stage for a warm, intimate feeling. Conversation flowed and Harvey, seated next to me, constantly reached across to stab things off my plate as he was dieting and wouldn’t take helpings of everything. Michael sat at the head of the table, carving and serving, making sure we all had whatever we needed or wanted.
The trappings of the day were amazing, but much like the story of the Grinch, there was a greater lesson to be learned. If the maracas, the fireplaces, the expensive place settings and the supersized tree chock full of lights disappeared taking along all the presents, it would still have been a perfect Christmas.
The reason? There was love present.
It showed in the inclusive nature that welcomed four of us from outside the family as if we were a natural part of the proceedings. It was revealed in the genuine hugs and kisses that welcomed us all. It was in the laughter and joy at a wonderful day.
Every year of my tenure, Michael extended a holiday invitation to me. I accepted only that one magical time, but it forever remains in my memory as a perfect day. Michael taught me many lessons in our fourteen years working together, but the most important thing is that love is magical.
James Michael, thank you for all the memories and that special vantage point from the wing-backed chair which allowed more than a window into your life. That day really showed me how lucky I was to know you and have the benefit of your friendship. Rest in peace, old friend.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Brush, Cut, Donate!
By Kristin R Kovacs
Last month I donated my hair for the third time in five years. Some of you are reading this and know exactly what I’m talking about, while others of you may be asking yourselves what this means. What is she talking about? Where do you donate your hair? Who wants your old hair anyway?
Some years ago I heard of an organization called Locks of Love. This organization provides wigs to children suffering from long-term illnesses that cause them to lose their hair. A few years later when I was a sophomore in college, I decided to participate in the program. I had been dating Sean (who later became my husband) for just a few months, and I told him that I was planning on doing it. His reaction was one of surprise. He said that he had only ever dated girls with long hair and he wasn’t sure if he would like it. Needless to say, I cut my hair anyway.
When he first saw my haircut he was so excited and absolutely loved it. I have since grown and donated my hair two times and every time I am growing it out he begs me not to. The two more recent times I have donated my hair it was to a different organization. Beautiful Lengths, which is affiliated with the hair product brand Pantene, is partnered with the American Cancer Society. This organization provides cancer patients with real-hair wigs. Generally, you will need to have at least 10 inches of hair available, however different organizations have varying requirements.
Shortly after I donated my hair for the first time, I went back to school and hadn’t gotten around to getting the hair to the post office. I asked my mother if she wouldn’t mind sending it out for me. Things got busy at home and a few weeks went by and it wasn’t sent. One day she came home to find that our dog, Tibby, had climbed up onto the counter and clawed through my bag of hair! Luckily, she only pulled out a few strands and we were able to send the ponytail (right away!) to Locks of Love. We joke that Tibby missed me so much while I was at school that she was trying to find something with my scent on it!
If you are thinking about donating your hair, but are nervous about cutting so much at one time, I encourage you to research the organizations online. My second time donating I had let it get very long and was able to cut a foot of hair and still have some left over on my head! The most recent cut yielded my shortest haircut since I was a child. Luckily, when you have a hairdresser as talented as Vanessa, you don’t worry at all about how your hair will come out. It is daunting to think about cutting that much hair, but I can’t describe how great it feels after a completely new look is unveiled that was hiding under all that extra hair. So here I am now, with my new haircut and the most recent bag of my hair sitting in a Ziploc bag on the counter waiting to be sent off to its second life.
Beautiful Lengths has a statement on its website: One wig takes six ponytail donations. Based on the rate that I have been donating, it would take me ten years of donating my hair to have made one complete wig. That is a lot of hair! This act of kindness doesn’t cost anything except a little bit of bravery and willingness to better an individual’s life through a selfless act. Your hair is a part of what makes you feel beautiful, why not give it a chance to help make someone else feel the same way.
If you have any questions regarding my experiences, the organizations, or my fabulous hairdresser Vanessa, please do not hesitate to contact me at Woofus56@aol.com.
Releasing a Leaf
Old leaf, orphan of your prime,
suspended in space and time,
debating where to go,
I am your secret friend.
In the past, you green waved
to squirrels when breezes blew
through your arboreal home.
Your curved edges still sweep
from one to another, but
your ochre back is bent due
to loss and separation.
When I rub your bowed back,
you feel brittle, rock-ribbed, unbreakable,
but I could crumble you,
release you to living in
the shadow of your past.
However, I, an orphan
of my prime, also fragile
but rugged, also vulnerable
but strong, also debating,
will hold you gently,
release you into winds
also carrying you to a new home.
Alfred Mueller
Poetry 811.54, a group of local poets, invites other aspiring poets – high school students to seniors - to attend bi-weekly Saturday morning workshops in Wallingford and Meriden featuring readings of favorite poems, writing one’s own poems and sharing them in a non-critical, supportive setting. For locations, dates and other details, contact Al Mueller at 265-2445 or argusargus@sbcglobal.net.
Home Country
Slim Randles
Herb is a retired businessman, which tends to make the rest of us think he is practical. That wouldn’t be entirely accurate, however, as Herb has the silent soul of a romantic. How else can anyone explain his passion for archery?
Most nice days he can be found out in his backyard, terrorizing a stack of hay bales with a target pinned to it. Many shooters do this, of course, but Herb is different. In this age of compound bows which resemble portable gym equipment, sights that glow in the dark, releases that resemble handguns, and arrows made of space-age materials, Herb is a throwback to the old days.
He shoots a wooden recurve bow and uses wooden arrows. His fingers and bow arm are protected by leather rather than plastic, and he trusts his own eye and form to place the arrow in the paper plate affixed to the hay bales.
Dud was watching him one afternoon.
“You shoot very well, Herb.”
“Thanks.”
“Wouldn’t you get more speed from a compound bow and some graphite arrows?”
“Sure.”
“Well …?”
Herb smiled at him. “Dud, if I judged the fun of shooting by how fast I could get something to the target, I’d go in the house and get my deer rifle. It’ll shoot circles around any bow ever made.”
Herb hesitated a minute. “You see, Dud, if I hit the target, I want it to be mostly because I did it right and not some ammunition factory somewhere. I’m selfish. I want the credit … and I’m willing to accept the blame if I miss.”
If you enjoy these columns, invite someone home for dinner this month. Then let this paper know you did it.
The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce
NETWORKING, PROMOTION, EDUCATION, AND LEADERSHIP
Last month we shared some information with you on Education – one of the four principles that drive the work of the staff and volunteers of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce. We described this organization’s commitment to lifelong learning for those in our community – for both students and Chamber members and we highlighted upcoming workshops and SCORE counseling sessions. Always check www.meridenchamber.com for up to date community and business events!
Continuing on with the theme of Education, we remind People’s Press readers that each year the Chamber awards thousands of dollars to area students in the form of education awards. Funds for these awards are raised through the Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament (June) and additional fundraisers throughout the year by the Chamber’s Hispanic Member Outreach Committee. Some of the 2008 recipients are pictured here.
2008 Education Award Winners are shown above. Pictured (l-r): Chamber President Sรฉan W. Moore, Kayla Robles, Steven Lopez, Christine Stewart, Katherine Moore, Rebekka Chenard and HMOC Co-Chairwoman, Melonie Cancรฉl..
Not pictured: Brian Cofrancesco, Nicholas Ryan Green.
The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce will again offer the Sanford S. Shorr Education Awards to area residents in pursuit of higher education. Awards are given to Meriden residents graduating from area high schools. Another award is available for a student returning to college for another year.
Additional awards are available from the Chamber’s Hispanic Member Outreach Committee that was formed in October 2005. Applicants must be Hispanic Meriden students graduating from high school or returning to college. Over the past 21 years, over 65 awards have been presented to area residents, totaling over $60,000. The Sanford S. Shorr Chamber of Commerce Education Awards in honor of Sanford S. Shorr who served as an Executive Vice President of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce for 29 years. The winners exemplify the high values, outstanding character and dedication to the community that have epitomized the life of Mr. Shorr. Thus, the essential criteria consist of high character, service to school, community and others, and scholastic achievement.
Applications have already been distributed to the area high school Guidance Offices. They may also be downloaded from the Chamber web site: www.meridenchamber.com; Click on the Resources tab, then Community Services. The completed applications must be returned to the Chamber no later than January 30, 2008. The recipients will be presented with certificates at the 113th Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Dinner to be held in April 2009.
The four principles of networking, promotion, education, and leadership are the basis of the plan of work for the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce. We will continue to highlight one each month so that readers may become more aware of what the Greater Meriden Chamber is doing for its members and the communities that it serves. For more information on joining The Greater Meriden Chamber (all businesses who are located in the city, or do business, or plan to do business, in the Greater Meriden area, are eligible to join…call 203.235.7901.)
___________________________________________________________________________
NATURE AS A MIRROR
Dorothy Gonick
December 2008
BITTERSWEET
Lovely Bittersweet
Clusters of bright orange-red
Noxious vine.
There is a special beauty in the fall and winter days of the year as trees have become festooned with colorful Bittersweet vines. Throughout the earlier seasons, the vine flourished unobtrusively as it wound its tendrils along fences and other plants. Several vines may have twisted together creating an intricate look and a stronger vine. The small violet colored flowers with cone like yellow anthers began blossoming in late May and throughout the summer. Yellow fruits began forming and gradually turned orange, then red and darker. By the time the leaves have fallen we can see the beauty of the Bittersweet as its fruits burst open to reveal the clusters of small, bright orange-red berries; each berry framed with three creamy husks. These pea-sized fruits are poisonous to animals and people, but the birds relish them and will add to nature’s beauty with their song and presence among the bittersweet.
New vines will emerge in the spring, either from seeds dropped by birds, or spread laterally from orange root suckers. We usually don’t consider these suckers welcome as some plants may become strangled by the vine. If left to mature, a thicket of entangling woody vines becomes almost impassable. Bittersweet’s dark side of being poisonous has a bright side too: a liquid produced from the twigs is used in medicine as a pain reliever and also to treat skin diseases. Our favorite use is to harvest these colorful branches of beauty and use them in flower arrangements or lovely wreaths to grace the fall season’s festivities, and then later place them outdoors for the birds to enjoy as a wintertime feast, creating another lovely sight.
When the ground becomes covered with snow and the landscape becomes drab in color, it’s such a pleasure to see the red berries of bittersweet dancing cheerily above the snow-covered ground. There are times in our lives when prospects seem as bleak as winter’s weather when we are cheered by the unexpected help of a kindhearted friend. It is heartwarming to know that a smile, friendly greeting or phone call may brighten a troubled heart, much as the colorful bittersweet brightens the harsh bitterness of a stormy day. Kindhearted cheeriness is welcome year-round, so let’s look for it and pass it on to all whom we meet. Have a good day!
_________________________________________________________________________________
WINTER
By: Brandon DiMichele
Snow falling from the sky as if we were French fries and the snow was salt, drowning us. Joy flowing through the children as they build snowmen. Snow angels dancing on the ground. Snow piled up to make forts for snowball fights. Snow packed tightly and rounded to make snowballs. Smack! As the first snowball hits the victim. The tasty aroma of the hot coco after a nice day outside. The warm cozy fire filling the room with light and heat. But hearing the shovels in the driveway is annoying. And the one thing that ruins winter the most, is spring, coming its way.
____________________________________________________________________________________
The *Magic* of Faith and Divine Inspiration
By Jennifer Jenkins
The *Magic* of Faith and Divine Inspiration begins with that famous yet small “mustard seed,” that seed of ripple effect proportions that we create when we connect with our true Divine selves by letting go of our false selves and coming to the realization that there is no separation between ourselves and the Divine Universe. When we speak, think and act from the heart of our true essence by focusing on our Divine qualities – Life, Love, Peace, Joy, Wisdom, Intelligence, Beauty and Creativity, we become, in essence, co-creators of a truly *magical* world, a world of unlimited potential and wonder.
With faith, there are no limits, except those we create with our thoughts. That is relevant to one very important spiritual law, the Law of Attraction. According to Einstein, “everything in the universe is composed of energy which cannot be destroyed; energy can only be transformed.” Utilizing modern day metaphysical philosophy, this “everything” includes the energy of one’s thoughts, good, neutral, or bad; it makes no difference. ALL thoughts consist of energy. What we focus upon, we attract. As we transform our thoughts from negative to positive, we elevate our consciousness to a higher spiritual level. By doing this, we create a positive outcome for ourselves and ultimately all of humanity, because of this inevitable and dynamic ripple effect of energy.
Already, I see people’s consciousness evolving. Yes, there is still fear and worry in the world. However, it will subside, and eventually end, as more and more people learn there is no separation between themselves and the Divine Universe with all that it encompasses, and that it will be their faith in the Divine coupled with their highly evolved thoughts which will ultimately create a reality of positive unlimited potential. How *magic* is that?
Some might say, only a child would think this way. Well, have you ever heard the expression, “He had the faith like that of a child”? Young children can teach us so much, if we would only listen and observe. It is young children who generally keep their hearts open to the wonder of *magic* and their minds to unlimited possibilities. After all, the reality of Disneyland and subsequent Disney creations began with the dreams of a small child named Walt Disney. During his early childhood years, Disney doodled endlessly and later transformed his visionary work into the Disney creations, including that of “Magic Kingdom,” which society has enjoyed for years. Disney kept his heart open; his thoughts elevated, and ultimately transformed not only himself into a creative genius but the World as well. He had faith in his dreams, but most importantly he had faith in the Divine and the power of prayer for inspiration and guidance. The life of Walt Disney is a true example of the *magical* power of faith and all the good it can create in one’s life and the lives of others.
What will you create for yourself and others? What are you creating now in your life? You don’t have to be famous to leave an impressionable mark on this world. Just think of all the innovative technologies, health cures, humanitarian organizations, works of art and literature, as well as new jobs, new companies, and new economic, political and social systems that have yet to be Divinely inspired and, as a result, brought into “physical form” to prosper all. It starts with that small yet *magical* mustard seed. So, why not enter the portal of faith and Divine inspiration to plant your *magical* mustard seed. The portal is open year round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is always surrounded by the Angels of Light and Love. Blessings to all who enter it.
To read THE PEOPLES PRESS in image or pdf forms go to www.peoplespressnews.com. We are a community newspaper serving Meriden, Wallingford and all of central Connecticut.
0 comments:
Post a Comment