To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com!
Mayor’s CORNER WALLINGFORD
Dear Friends:
The month of April is the home of the celebration of Earth Day. In May, we continue our celebration of our environment with Open Space Day. On May 19th, at 2:00 p.m., we offer a hike over town property located on Tamarac Swamp Road. The guide and speaker for the event, which is planned by the Wallingford Conservation Commission, is Erin O’Hare, the Environmental Planner for Wallingford.
The two-hour hike will traverse a stream corridor, hayfield, early successional woodlands, a freshwater marsh, wetlands, hedgerow borders, pastureland and cornfield. Participants may see bobolinks, eastern meadow larks, savannah sparrows and many other species. Organizers request that pets not be brought along on this hike. Please bring your own water and boots as mud can be expected. This is a wonderful way to enjoy the warmer weather and learn about open space, its management, and the encouragement of different wild life species with habitat.
Don’t forget the Residential Electronics Recycling Event scheduled for May 12th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Cheshire High School, 520 South Main Street, Cheshire. Recycling of electronics is a great way to help protect the environment by reusing products rather than disposing by burning or burying. Please telephone the Mayor’s Office at 294-2070 or the event coordinator at 294-2061.
We have much to celebrate! Have a wonderful May!
Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor
Mayor’s Corner - Meriden
In January, I convened a Mayor's Summit to address the needs of Meriden residents facing difficulties in the current economic climate. Leaders from Meriden's faith communities had approached me to offer to partner with the city to provide better coordination, information sharing, and identification of resources to help those in need. To date, we have hosted three Summit Meetings and these efforts have proved to be extremely beneficial.
We have focused on housing, energy assistance, food, clothing, childcare, and employment. We have brought together representatives from the non-profit sector, State of Connecticut, probate court, city departments, Meriden Housing Authority, and faith communities.
These Summit Meetings have led to increasing the number of offices throughout Meriden for accepting energy assistance applications. We have identified a complete list of all food resources including food pantries and soup kitchens. A complete list of all clothing resources has also been compiled. These resources have been shared with all agencies and can be accessed though the Meriden Health Department.
We have also hosted presentations about 211, which is the statewide info directory, and the Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness. And finally, we have developed a universal referral form that can be used by all participating organizations to refer clients for assistance, track progress, and assess need.
Plaudits to all the Meriden organizations who have come together to serve our community in a difficult time. Meriden is an extremely generous community in heart and spirit.
Michael S. Rohde - Mayor
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
MAX E. MURAVNICK
MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
Our annual Senior Expo Information Fair for Older Americans’ Month will be held on Wednesday, May 13 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the lower level of the Senior Center. A free box lunch will be served to the first 300 attendees and the event will feature vendor tables, free samples, health screenings, and information about health and well being opportunities. The program at 11:00 AM will be a demonstration of “Cane-Fu: Martial Arts for Seniors”, a mix of aerobics and self-defense! The Senior Expo features displays from Meriden agencies serving the elderly and is an opportunity for seniors, caregivers and family members to learn about the many fine services offered for senior citizens in our community. This year’s event is sponsored by Genesis Health Care and Meriden Center on Paddock Avenue and we appreciate their support!
Participating agencies at the Senior Expo include Anthem, MidState Medical Center, LaPlanche Clinic, Health Net, Miller Memorial Community, Agency on Aging of South Central CT, Social Security Administration, Companions and Homemakers, the Bradley Home, MidState VNA & Hospice, BCI Financial Mortgage Corporation, Meriden Center, the Eye Center, RSVP of Central CT, Rushford Center, Comfort Keepers, Elder Law Attorney Dan Tully, the Meriden Health Department, the Village at Kensington Place, Silver Springs Care Center, Assisted Living Services, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care and more. Join us on May 13 for the Senior Expo at the Max E Muravnick Senior Center. Admission is free, the public is invited to attend and we hope you will join us for this big event!
Starting Friday, May 15 Senior Center staff will begin taking applications for the Rent Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2008 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. To be eligible, applicants must have been 65 or over as of December 31, 2008 or be enrolled in Social Security Disability. Proof of 2008 income must be presented, including a copy of your 2008 income tax return, if filed, Social Security 1099, and all other income. Income limits are $30,500 for a single person and $37,300 for a married couple. Proof of 2008 rent and utilities must also be presented. For further information contact the Senior Center at 237-0066.
The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program will be held at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 22 and Friday, July 24 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. People can sign-up in the front office or by calling 237-0066. The program will be limited to the first 30 people who register so sign-up today!
Meriden-Wallingford Veterans Service Center Director George Messier will begin monthly visits here in May to reach out to Meriden veterans with information on veterans’ benefits. Mr. Messier will be at the Senior Center on Tuesday, May 19 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the first floor meeting room to meet with veterans and family members. To reach him at other times in his office at the Wallingford Town Hall call 294-2165.
Flavia Gwara, Queen Mother of the Silver City Red Hat Society, and Richard Egan, Commander of the Meriden Antique Veterans, were named 2009 Volunteers of the Year at a special luncheon at the Senior Center on April 15. We offer our thanks to them for their outstanding volunteer leadership and to the other 60 seniors who were also honored for their volunteer work during the past year. Thank you all for your volunteer work at the Senior Center, we couldn’t do all we do without your help!
For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
April 28, 2009
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
Wallingford Senior Center
May 2009 Edition
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events
Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at http://www.wlfdseniorctr.com/
MAY IS NATIONAL OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
ART SHOW
Thursday, April 30, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday, May 1, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday, May 2, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Featuring the artwork of members of the Wallingford Senior Center and students of the Wallingford Public School System
PIZZA SUPPER & HI-LITERS SHOW on Monday, May 11, 6:00 PM
Tickets are on sale through May 8 for a pizza supper which will precede the annual Hi-Liters Variety Show. Pizza will be served at 6:00 PM., and the Hi-Liters Show, directed by Richard Fontanella, will begin at 7:00 PM. Tickets for the pizza supper are $3.00 for Senior Center members and $4.00 for non-members. The Hi-Liters Variety Show will feature production numbers entitled “Aloha Hawaii” and “Remembering the Roaring Twenties”. Come support these great kids who work all year long to provide great entertainment in local convalescent homes and senior centers.
CANCER SURVIVOR COMMUNITY FORUM on Thursday, May 14, 10:00 AM—12 NOON
The Wallingford Senior Center will be the site of a community forum on May 14. The forum is part of a statewide needs assessment of cancer survivors. The Connecticut Cancer Partnership, in collaboration with the CT Department of Public Health, is conducting the statewide assessment to determine the needs of Connecticut adults who have ever been diagnosed with cancer. Information gathered during the forum discussion will help determine where to focus future cancer-related resources, services and programs. This is a chance to share your thoughts and concerns. Your input is very important! Pre-registration is required. Please call the Senior Center at 265-7753. A free light breakfast will be provided and there will be a raffle drawing. For more information about the statewide needs assessment among cancer survivors, please call Julie Ray at 203-787-4700.
FRAUD ABUSE: PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT, SCAMS,
AND MEDICARE FRAUD
Tuesday, May 19, 10:00—ll:30 AM
Protecting your personal information is the best line of defense against scams and healthcare fraud. Tom Davis is the Regional Coordinator of The Connecticut Money School, sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut. Leslie Pruitt, CHOICES Coordinator, will present the program discussing types of scams that are used to obtain personal information and why many of these scam artists focus on the senior population. Seniors will gain a better understanding on how to prevent, detect and report unscrupulous activity. To register, please call 265 7753.
MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE on Friday, May 22, 11:00 AM
Our program of remembrance will feature guest speaker Bob Parisi, Town Councilor and Commander of American Legion Shaw Sinon Post 73, as well as a color guard, patriotic music led by the Vintage Voices, and the dedication of new flags in memory of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Join us.
COMING IN JUNE! CRUISE NIGHT – JUNE 25
Calling all classic car owners! Sign up to participate in our Cruise Night on June 25, 5:00 – 8:00 PM. Cut off date is 1979. Call Stephanie Ferrall, Program Coordinator, for more information at 265-7753.
FREE HEARING SERVICES
Monday, May 11, 1:30—4:00 PM
Nick Wills, Hearing Aid Specialist from Miracle Ear will provide the following free services on a first-come, first-served basis: hearing tests; ear canal inspections; hearing aid cleaning (any make or model); Miracle Ear hearing aid adjustments; and general advice on hearing aids and coping with hearing loss.
SOCIAL SERVICES
VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, May 26, 1:00 p.m.—3:00 p.m.
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753.
BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO VETS
AND THEIR FAMILIES
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 10:00 a.m.
Accredited Veterans Benefit Attorney, Dean B. Kilbourne, will be discussing how a little known veterans benefit which may help pay for home care for you and your spouse. Please call 265 7753 to register.
SOCIAL SECURITY/SUPPLEMENT SECURITY
ONE-TIME ECONOMIC RECOVERY PAYMENT
All eligible Social Security and SSI beneficiaries will receive a one-time $250 economic recovery benefit by late May 2009. If both you and your spouse are receiving benefits from Social Security or SSI, each will receive the one-time payment. You should expect to receive your payment no later than the first week of June 2009. This benefit will be a separate payment, which will not be included in your regular monthly benefit payment. If you receive your monthly benefit by check, you will receive a check. If your monthly benefit is directly deposited, this is how you will receive your payment. After June 4, 2009, you may contact your local Social Security office or 1-800-772 12 13 if your payment has not arrived. PLEASE NOTE: NO ACTION IS NECESSARY ON YOUR PART TO RECEIVE THIS ONE-TIME ECONOMIC RECOVERY PAYMENT.
BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, May 19, 10:00 a.m.—12:00 noon
Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment l. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses note covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Pre-registration required. Call 265 7753 now to schedule an appointment.
CONNPACE PROGRAM
ConnPACE is a state-funded prescription drug program. Each year the income limit guidelines are adjusted. In January 2009, the changes are as follows: $25,100 for a single person and $33,800 for a couple. Beneficiaries who have ConnPACE must select a Medicare Part D plan. ConnPACE will still allow beneficiaries to select the Medicare D plan of their choice. There are no asset limits. Anyone who meets these guidelines is encouraged to apply. For an appointment or additional information, please call Eileen Flynn, SW, at 265 7753.
Public Health Preparedness – Request for Volunteers
May 19, 2009
Please be advised that the Wallingford Health Department is planning to participate in a Regional Exercise for Public Health Response. One of our Public Health responsibilities is to distribute antibiotics to residents and critical staff/first responders in the event of a community bioterrorist action, such as Anthrax or Smallpox.
The Town of Wallingford will be participating in a Regional Exercise on May 19, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The exercise will involve setting up an antibiotic distribution clinic for Town first responders, clinic volunteers and critical staff.
We are requesting your assistance. Volunteers will be needed to sort and package the antibiotics for distribution and to help us document the process. We will provide the necessary training 1 week PRIOR to the exercise for all volunteers.
The Town of Wallingford and the Wallingford Health Department appreciate your willingness to help us protect all residents. We could not provide the public health response required without individuals like you, our public health preparedness volunteers.
This exercise will be evaluated by the CT Department of Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management Homeland Security (DEMHS), Region 2. We will assess the distribution plan, the number of volunteers needed, and the time frame required to distribute the antibiotic. Your input will be a critical part of the exercise and the evaluation.
We would greatly appreciate if you could share this information with your colleagues and co-workers. If they are interested in volunteering, please feel free to photocopy the volunteer form for their use. Medical training or certification is NOT required for this exercise.
Thank you for your time in considering this matter. If you have any questions, please contact the Wallingford Director of Health, at 294-2065 or email us at: Wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net
Wallingford Health Department, DEMHS Region 2
Municipal Point of Dispensing (POD) EXERCISE
When: May 19, 2009
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Volunteer Training Date: Date/time TBA, 1 week Prior to EXERCISE
Please complete and return the below information by mail, fax or email:
Wallingford Health Dept., 45 South Main St., Wallingford
Fax: 203-294-2064
Email: wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net
Volunteer Name: ______________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
Phone/Email: _______________________________________________
Indicate medical certification, if any: __________________________________
*Please contact us if you want to be removed from the Volunteer List*
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
BANKS OF MERIDEN DISPLAY AT ANDREWS HOMESTEAD
The Meriden Historical Society
The Meriden Historical Society will be holding an Open House at the Andrews Homestead, 424 W. Main St (next to Ben Franklin School), Meriden, CT beginning on May 10th and every Sunday in May thereafter. There will be displays and early photos of Meriden banks and a historical overview and timeline of the banks and their organizers. Collections of give-aways, ephemera and related souvenirs will be displayed. During this exhibit, we will have the second floor opened for those who can manage the stairs. The Andrews Homestead has been updated with lighted showcases filled with items made in Meriden by people who lived and worked here. If you've never been to the Andrew's Homestead, here's your chance to see what's inside the old, red house. The homestead will be opened beginning on May 10th and then each Sunday in May, from 11a.m. to 3p.m. Admission is free. Come and reacquaint yourself with Meriden's history. Meriden Historical Society Preserving Meriden's Past for Future Generations since 1892
Meriden Schools: Return on Investment
April 22, 2009
David Radcliffe
A few months ago I was waiting outside school to pick up my kids. Another parent got to talking and said, “You know, my son is doing okay here. But even though I’m a tax payer, I don’t know how we’re doing overall - as a school district. You just don’t hear much about that.”
That’s a great question and an important one. Do parents, taxpayers and our elected leaders know what return we get on the significant investment we make in Meriden schools? With all the talk about budget and cuts, we sometimes lose track of why we’re doing this school thing in the first place. The result we’re after is that our kids will do well in school and with a strong foundation, do well in life.
So how are our schools doing? Over the past three years, according to the State Department of Education, all eight Meriden elementary schools have held steady or made gains in math and reading. Several of those schools have made significant gains. Overall, scores have improved nearly 10% over those three years, compared to about 5% for the state as a whole. There’s a lot more work to do, but that’s pretty good.
This is happening in an environment where more and more of our children come from poor families - up 15% over the past 10 years where now nearly 2 or every 3 Meriden children grow up in lower-income families. And when you compare our school spending with that of Connecticut towns like Meriden, we spend about $500 less per student. To perform as well as we are says that our schools are on the right track.
The City Manager has proposed an increase in school funding that is much less than the amount requested by the Board of Education. He based his recommendation on an assumption that the new $4.9 million in Meriden’s share of Federal stimulus dollars will make up the difference. That assumption has not held. Much of the Title I and IDEA special education funding can’t be used to keep existing staff. And, that $4.9 million has to last two years, not one as proposed in the budget. It turns out that while welcome, the new Federal funding is not the big windfall for schools as first appeared. Without changes, this budget could have a seriously negative impact on our town’s largest employer and its’ customers: the children of Meriden.
The solution to local school funding, especially in these times, is no longer just a Board of Education matter. As the largest portion of our city budget, this will take all of us - taxpayers, unions and all levels of government - working together very hard over these next several weeks as we round third base on this budget season.
No one believes that more school funding means kids will do better. But just as we as a City wouldn’t cut public safety when our streets and homes are relatively safe as now, we shouldn’t and can’t underfund schools that are heading in the right direction.
David Radcliffe is a parent, taxpayer and director of Meriden Children First. http://www.meridenchildrenfirst.org/
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
We have much to celebrate! Have a wonderful May!
Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor
Mayor’s Corner - Meriden
In January, I convened a Mayor's Summit to address the needs of Meriden residents facing difficulties in the current economic climate. Leaders from Meriden's faith communities had approached me to offer to partner with the city to provide better coordination, information sharing, and identification of resources to help those in need. To date, we have hosted three Summit Meetings and these efforts have proved to be extremely beneficial.
We have focused on housing, energy assistance, food, clothing, childcare, and employment. We have brought together representatives from the non-profit sector, State of Connecticut, probate court, city departments, Meriden Housing Authority, and faith communities.
These Summit Meetings have led to increasing the number of offices throughout Meriden for accepting energy assistance applications. We have identified a complete list of all food resources including food pantries and soup kitchens. A complete list of all clothing resources has also been compiled. These resources have been shared with all agencies and can be accessed though the Meriden Health Department.
We have also hosted presentations about 211, which is the statewide info directory, and the Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness. And finally, we have developed a universal referral form that can be used by all participating organizations to refer clients for assistance, track progress, and assess need.
Plaudits to all the Meriden organizations who have come together to serve our community in a difficult time. Meriden is an extremely generous community in heart and spirit.
Michael S. Rohde - Mayor
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
MAX E. MURAVNICK
MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
Our annual Senior Expo Information Fair for Older Americans’ Month will be held on Wednesday, May 13 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the lower level of the Senior Center. A free box lunch will be served to the first 300 attendees and the event will feature vendor tables, free samples, health screenings, and information about health and well being opportunities. The program at 11:00 AM will be a demonstration of “Cane-Fu: Martial Arts for Seniors”, a mix of aerobics and self-defense! The Senior Expo features displays from Meriden agencies serving the elderly and is an opportunity for seniors, caregivers and family members to learn about the many fine services offered for senior citizens in our community. This year’s event is sponsored by Genesis Health Care and Meriden Center on Paddock Avenue and we appreciate their support!
Participating agencies at the Senior Expo include Anthem, MidState Medical Center, LaPlanche Clinic, Health Net, Miller Memorial Community, Agency on Aging of South Central CT, Social Security Administration, Companions and Homemakers, the Bradley Home, MidState VNA & Hospice, BCI Financial Mortgage Corporation, Meriden Center, the Eye Center, RSVP of Central CT, Rushford Center, Comfort Keepers, Elder Law Attorney Dan Tully, the Meriden Health Department, the Village at Kensington Place, Silver Springs Care Center, Assisted Living Services, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care and more. Join us on May 13 for the Senior Expo at the Max E Muravnick Senior Center. Admission is free, the public is invited to attend and we hope you will join us for this big event!
Starting Friday, May 15 Senior Center staff will begin taking applications for the Rent Relief Program sponsored by the State of Connecticut. The program provides eligible renters with money back on their 2008 rent and utilities based on their income and expenses. To be eligible, applicants must have been 65 or over as of December 31, 2008 or be enrolled in Social Security Disability. Proof of 2008 income must be presented, including a copy of your 2008 income tax return, if filed, Social Security 1099, and all other income. Income limits are $30,500 for a single person and $37,300 for a married couple. Proof of 2008 rent and utilities must also be presented. For further information contact the Senior Center at 237-0066.
The next session of the AARP Driver Safety Program will be held at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 22 and Friday, July 24 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The course fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. People can sign-up in the front office or by calling 237-0066. The program will be limited to the first 30 people who register so sign-up today!
Meriden-Wallingford Veterans Service Center Director George Messier will begin monthly visits here in May to reach out to Meriden veterans with information on veterans’ benefits. Mr. Messier will be at the Senior Center on Tuesday, May 19 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the first floor meeting room to meet with veterans and family members. To reach him at other times in his office at the Wallingford Town Hall call 294-2165.
Flavia Gwara, Queen Mother of the Silver City Red Hat Society, and Richard Egan, Commander of the Meriden Antique Veterans, were named 2009 Volunteers of the Year at a special luncheon at the Senior Center on April 15. We offer our thanks to them for their outstanding volunteer leadership and to the other 60 seniors who were also honored for their volunteer work during the past year. Thank you all for your volunteer work at the Senior Center, we couldn’t do all we do without your help!
For a complete listing of all Senior Center classes, activities, trips and meal menus, pick-up a copy of our newsletter available on the first of each month at the reception desk in the front lobby.
John F. Hogarth
Senior Center Director
April 28, 2009
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
Wallingford Senior Center
May 2009 Edition
Wallingford Senior Center News and Events
Our monthly newsletter can be read in its entirety the first of each month on our website at http://www.wlfdseniorctr.com/
MAY IS NATIONAL OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
ART SHOW
Thursday, April 30, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday, May 1, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday, May 2, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Featuring the artwork of members of the Wallingford Senior Center and students of the Wallingford Public School System
PIZZA SUPPER & HI-LITERS SHOW on Monday, May 11, 6:00 PM
Tickets are on sale through May 8 for a pizza supper which will precede the annual Hi-Liters Variety Show. Pizza will be served at 6:00 PM., and the Hi-Liters Show, directed by Richard Fontanella, will begin at 7:00 PM. Tickets for the pizza supper are $3.00 for Senior Center members and $4.00 for non-members. The Hi-Liters Variety Show will feature production numbers entitled “Aloha Hawaii” and “Remembering the Roaring Twenties”. Come support these great kids who work all year long to provide great entertainment in local convalescent homes and senior centers.
CANCER SURVIVOR COMMUNITY FORUM on Thursday, May 14, 10:00 AM—12 NOON
The Wallingford Senior Center will be the site of a community forum on May 14. The forum is part of a statewide needs assessment of cancer survivors. The Connecticut Cancer Partnership, in collaboration with the CT Department of Public Health, is conducting the statewide assessment to determine the needs of Connecticut adults who have ever been diagnosed with cancer. Information gathered during the forum discussion will help determine where to focus future cancer-related resources, services and programs. This is a chance to share your thoughts and concerns. Your input is very important! Pre-registration is required. Please call the Senior Center at 265-7753. A free light breakfast will be provided and there will be a raffle drawing. For more information about the statewide needs assessment among cancer survivors, please call Julie Ray at 203-787-4700.
FRAUD ABUSE: PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT, SCAMS,
AND MEDICARE FRAUD
Tuesday, May 19, 10:00—ll:30 AM
Protecting your personal information is the best line of defense against scams and healthcare fraud. Tom Davis is the Regional Coordinator of The Connecticut Money School, sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut. Leslie Pruitt, CHOICES Coordinator, will present the program discussing types of scams that are used to obtain personal information and why many of these scam artists focus on the senior population. Seniors will gain a better understanding on how to prevent, detect and report unscrupulous activity. To register, please call 265 7753.
MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE on Friday, May 22, 11:00 AM
Our program of remembrance will feature guest speaker Bob Parisi, Town Councilor and Commander of American Legion Shaw Sinon Post 73, as well as a color guard, patriotic music led by the Vintage Voices, and the dedication of new flags in memory of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Join us.
COMING IN JUNE! CRUISE NIGHT – JUNE 25
Calling all classic car owners! Sign up to participate in our Cruise Night on June 25, 5:00 – 8:00 PM. Cut off date is 1979. Call Stephanie Ferrall, Program Coordinator, for more information at 265-7753.
FREE HEARING SERVICES
Monday, May 11, 1:30—4:00 PM
Nick Wills, Hearing Aid Specialist from Miracle Ear will provide the following free services on a first-come, first-served basis: hearing tests; ear canal inspections; hearing aid cleaning (any make or model); Miracle Ear hearing aid adjustments; and general advice on hearing aids and coping with hearing loss.
SOCIAL SERVICES
VETERANS SERVICES
Tuesday, May 26, 1:00 p.m.—3:00 p.m.
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 265 7753.
BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO VETS
AND THEIR FAMILIES
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 10:00 a.m.
Accredited Veterans Benefit Attorney, Dean B. Kilbourne, will be discussing how a little known veterans benefit which may help pay for home care for you and your spouse. Please call 265 7753 to register.
SOCIAL SECURITY/SUPPLEMENT SECURITY
ONE-TIME ECONOMIC RECOVERY PAYMENT
All eligible Social Security and SSI beneficiaries will receive a one-time $250 economic recovery benefit by late May 2009. If both you and your spouse are receiving benefits from Social Security or SSI, each will receive the one-time payment. You should expect to receive your payment no later than the first week of June 2009. This benefit will be a separate payment, which will not be included in your regular monthly benefit payment. If you receive your monthly benefit by check, you will receive a check. If your monthly benefit is directly deposited, this is how you will receive your payment. After June 4, 2009, you may contact your local Social Security office or 1-800-772 12 13 if your payment has not arrived. PLEASE NOTE: NO ACTION IS NECESSARY ON YOUR PART TO RECEIVE THIS ONE-TIME ECONOMIC RECOVERY PAYMENT.
BENEFITS SCREENING
Tuesday, May 19, 10:00 a.m.—12:00 noon
Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment l. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses note covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Pre-registration required. Call 265 7753 now to schedule an appointment.
CONNPACE PROGRAM
ConnPACE is a state-funded prescription drug program. Each year the income limit guidelines are adjusted. In January 2009, the changes are as follows: $25,100 for a single person and $33,800 for a couple. Beneficiaries who have ConnPACE must select a Medicare Part D plan. ConnPACE will still allow beneficiaries to select the Medicare D plan of their choice. There are no asset limits. Anyone who meets these guidelines is encouraged to apply. For an appointment or additional information, please call Eileen Flynn, SW, at 265 7753.
Public Health Preparedness – Request for Volunteers
May 19, 2009
Please be advised that the Wallingford Health Department is planning to participate in a Regional Exercise for Public Health Response. One of our Public Health responsibilities is to distribute antibiotics to residents and critical staff/first responders in the event of a community bioterrorist action, such as Anthrax or Smallpox.
The Town of Wallingford will be participating in a Regional Exercise on May 19, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The exercise will involve setting up an antibiotic distribution clinic for Town first responders, clinic volunteers and critical staff.
We are requesting your assistance. Volunteers will be needed to sort and package the antibiotics for distribution and to help us document the process. We will provide the necessary training 1 week PRIOR to the exercise for all volunteers.
The Town of Wallingford and the Wallingford Health Department appreciate your willingness to help us protect all residents. We could not provide the public health response required without individuals like you, our public health preparedness volunteers.
This exercise will be evaluated by the CT Department of Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management Homeland Security (DEMHS), Region 2. We will assess the distribution plan, the number of volunteers needed, and the time frame required to distribute the antibiotic. Your input will be a critical part of the exercise and the evaluation.
We would greatly appreciate if you could share this information with your colleagues and co-workers. If they are interested in volunteering, please feel free to photocopy the volunteer form for their use. Medical training or certification is NOT required for this exercise.
Thank you for your time in considering this matter. If you have any questions, please contact the Wallingford Director of Health, at 294-2065 or email us at: Wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net
Wallingford Health Department, DEMHS Region 2
Municipal Point of Dispensing (POD) EXERCISE
When: May 19, 2009
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Volunteer Training Date: Date/time TBA, 1 week Prior to EXERCISE
Please complete and return the below information by mail, fax or email:
Wallingford Health Dept., 45 South Main St., Wallingford
Fax: 203-294-2064
Email: wlfdhealth@sbcglobal.net
Volunteer Name: ______________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
Phone/Email: _______________________________________________
Indicate medical certification, if any: __________________________________
*Please contact us if you want to be removed from the Volunteer List*
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
BANKS OF MERIDEN DISPLAY AT ANDREWS HOMESTEAD
The Meriden Historical Society
The Meriden Historical Society will be holding an Open House at the Andrews Homestead, 424 W. Main St (next to Ben Franklin School), Meriden, CT beginning on May 10th and every Sunday in May thereafter. There will be displays and early photos of Meriden banks and a historical overview and timeline of the banks and their organizers. Collections of give-aways, ephemera and related souvenirs will be displayed. During this exhibit, we will have the second floor opened for those who can manage the stairs. The Andrews Homestead has been updated with lighted showcases filled with items made in Meriden by people who lived and worked here. If you've never been to the Andrew's Homestead, here's your chance to see what's inside the old, red house. The homestead will be opened beginning on May 10th and then each Sunday in May, from 11a.m. to 3p.m. Admission is free. Come and reacquaint yourself with Meriden's history. Meriden Historical Society Preserving Meriden's Past for Future Generations since 1892
Meriden Schools: Return on Investment
April 22, 2009
David Radcliffe
A few months ago I was waiting outside school to pick up my kids. Another parent got to talking and said, “You know, my son is doing okay here. But even though I’m a tax payer, I don’t know how we’re doing overall - as a school district. You just don’t hear much about that.”
That’s a great question and an important one. Do parents, taxpayers and our elected leaders know what return we get on the significant investment we make in Meriden schools? With all the talk about budget and cuts, we sometimes lose track of why we’re doing this school thing in the first place. The result we’re after is that our kids will do well in school and with a strong foundation, do well in life.
So how are our schools doing? Over the past three years, according to the State Department of Education, all eight Meriden elementary schools have held steady or made gains in math and reading. Several of those schools have made significant gains. Overall, scores have improved nearly 10% over those three years, compared to about 5% for the state as a whole. There’s a lot more work to do, but that’s pretty good.
This is happening in an environment where more and more of our children come from poor families - up 15% over the past 10 years where now nearly 2 or every 3 Meriden children grow up in lower-income families. And when you compare our school spending with that of Connecticut towns like Meriden, we spend about $500 less per student. To perform as well as we are says that our schools are on the right track.
The City Manager has proposed an increase in school funding that is much less than the amount requested by the Board of Education. He based his recommendation on an assumption that the new $4.9 million in Meriden’s share of Federal stimulus dollars will make up the difference. That assumption has not held. Much of the Title I and IDEA special education funding can’t be used to keep existing staff. And, that $4.9 million has to last two years, not one as proposed in the budget. It turns out that while welcome, the new Federal funding is not the big windfall for schools as first appeared. Without changes, this budget could have a seriously negative impact on our town’s largest employer and its’ customers: the children of Meriden.
The solution to local school funding, especially in these times, is no longer just a Board of Education matter. As the largest portion of our city budget, this will take all of us - taxpayers, unions and all levels of government - working together very hard over these next several weeks as we round third base on this budget season.
No one believes that more school funding means kids will do better. But just as we as a City wouldn’t cut public safety when our streets and homes are relatively safe as now, we shouldn’t and can’t underfund schools that are heading in the right direction.
David Radcliffe is a parent, taxpayer and director of Meriden Children First. http://www.meridenchildrenfirst.org/
To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s NewsMagazine, in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
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