Meriden Wallingford Community Events and News August 2009

To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine! Whitey Ford Signing Private signing with Yankee great Whitey Ford – 1961 Cy Young and World Series champ. Six times World Series champ. 1974 Hall of Famer. The signing will be August 16th 2009 in New York. Have your items signed by one of the greatest pitchers of all time. Contact or visit Grand Slam Sports to arrange signing - 1374 East Main Street in Meriden 203-440-2377

QRWA Offers "Staycation" Paddle Program Quinnipiac River Watershed Association (QRWA) is sponsoring a series of paddling opportunities for local residents who wish to enjoy a "staycation"—a vacation close to home. There are two kinds of trips: beginner paddles on Hanover Pond and the Quinnipiac River, and more strenuous 5-mile trips down the Upper Quinnipiac River Canoeable Trail. Beginner paddle events are free in cooperation with Meriden Community Block Grant Program (CDBG). Beginner paddles, held at Hanover Pond/Quinnipiac River (free): Wed. Aug. 5 morning paddle--10 a.m.-12 noon Thursday Aug. 6 after work paddle--5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11 morning paddle--10 a.m.-12 noon Thursday Aug. 13 after work paddle 5-7 p.m. Tuesday Aug. 18 morning paddle--10 a.m.-12 noon QRWA will also host canoeable trail river trips that are intended for paddlers with ability to handle a canoe in flatwater river conditions. River trip cost is $15 ($10 for members) to cover insurance and river guides. Pre-registration is required for river trips. River trips, Rte 322 Cheshire to Hanover Pond, Meriden--fee $15 (10 members) Saturday Aug. 8 weekend river trip--10:00 a.m.-1 p.m Sun. Aug. 23 weekend river trip--2:00-5:00 p.m Paddle events are subject to cancellation. Participants should call to confirm event will take place. Interested persons should contact QRWA at 203 237 2237 or qrwa@sbcglobal.net. _________________________________________________________________ BASEBALL GLOVES NEEDED Baseball gloves in any decent condition are needed for a literacy program called “Beisbol y Biblioteca” (Baseball and The Library) which is starting in August, to help kids in our Meriden projects to improve reading skills. Playing baseball together, followed by going to the library and reading is what the program is about. Please bring baseball gloves and balls to the Meriden Library Children’s Room, or contact Dr. Charles Kaplan at 203-235-4422 if you would like to help or have questions. Thank you! ____________________________________________________________________________ Who should be this year’s Children Champion? Each fall, Meriden Children First recognizes two or three people who go ‘above and beyond’ for Meriden’s children. The Champion need not be a local celebrity or someone in the newspaper every day. S/he can be a neighbor, a police officer, a teacher – anyone who cares deeply about kids and shows that concern by volunteering, raising awareness on children’s issues, motivating others to act on behalf of children or taking on an innovative activity or unique project that impacts and/or improves children’s lives. CFI selects people to recognize from nominations that come from people like you. Who do YOU think should be this year’s Children Champion? There are two nomination categories: someone employed in the field of education/children/families or someone who volunteers in schools or with children/families. The nomination form is available online at http://www.meridenchildrenfirst.org/ Past Children Champions include: 2008 Cliff Comerford, Beat the Street and Frank Olcheski, Cub Scout Troop #22 (in memory) 2007 Hubbard Park Playground Committee: Dawn Nierenburg-Reynolds, Maryann Santos, Joan Goodman; Children’s Department, Meriden Public Library; and, Cindy Eddy, St. Andrew’s Preschool (School Readiness Preschool Teacher of the Year). Deadline for submission is Friday, August 14, 2009. To obtain a copy of the form contact Children First at 105 Miller Street, fax 630-2423, or email to dwradcliffe@juno.com If you have any questions, contact 630-3566. Champions will be recognized at the annual meeting of Meriden Children First on Wednesday, October 21, 6:00 p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Naugatuck Savings Bank Foundation Responds to Growing Community Needs The Naugatuck Savings Bank Foundation has awarded a total of $184,000 in the first half of 2009. The funding supports organizations providing education, emergency medical care, youth development activities, and critical social service programs in the Foundation’s service area which includes the ten towns where it has branches (Ansonia, Cheshire, Middlebury, Naugatuck,Oxford, Prospect, Southbury, Waterbury, Watertown, Woodbury) and geographically contiguous communities. The Foundation also offers grants in the Meriden area due to its corporate affiliation with Castle Bank. The Foundation’s priority for providing critically needed services in these difficult economic times is reflected in its support to St. Vincent de Paul for kitchen renovation and purchase of supplies and to Salvation Army for its Family Emergency Shelter, which will provide housing and comprehensive services to approximately 165 individuals this year. In addition, a grant made to AmeriCares has assisted area families with necessary home renovations, and The Workplace will be able to provide additional job training due to the Bank’s support. The Foundation has made numerous health-related grants,including one to Waterbury Hospital for Waterbury Project Access, a consortium including St. Mary’s Hospital and StayWell Health Center, providing case management and access to charity health care. In addition, the Foundation is supporting local emergency health services through two grants for technology upgrades, made to Southbury Ambulance Association and Valley Emergency Medical Services. While the Foundation recognizes the necessity of addressing immediate social and medical needs, it also looks to the future, granting support to a new environmental education program for kindergarten students at Waterbury’s Carrington School and a golf-based youth development program at First Tee of CT, as well as enabling Granville Academy to expand its successful high school program to middle school students. Since 1999, the Naugatuck Savings Bank Foundation has awarded more than $2.8 million in grants to area nonprofit agencies to support a broad range of programs and services that are consistent with the Foundation’s mission to contribute to the betterment of the communities it serves. The Foundation considers a broad range of requests to create opportunities for residents, with emphasis on promoting education and the encouragement of homeownership. To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!

Kenya Safari Acrobats To Blaze The Stage At Quassy GREENSBORO, N.C. - Staying in top physical condition is not only a family affair in the Kalama household, it is also at the heart of their livelihood. Nine months out the year Jacob and Karen Kalama, along with their daughter, Krystina, travel across the United States performing as the Kenya Safari Acrobats - a company Jacob established more than a decade ago with its base of operations situated in this North Carolina community. “Jacob has been doing this for more than 20 years,” said Karen, who also serves as spokesperson for the company. “He has traveled worldwide with circuses - getting his start as part of a second troupe that was formed in Kenya.” Though thousands of miles from their African homeland, the Kalamas incorporate much of their native culture into their high-energy shows. “We used to work with a festival of cultures and basically talked about the customs of Kenya,” Karen noted. “The movie ’The Lion King’ is about Kenya, so children relate to that and we can draw them into the show by telling them we are taking them on a journey through Africa.” From there the fast-paced Kenya Safari Acrobats - a troupe generally consisting of six to eight highly-trained athletes - take the stage for 45-minutes of jaw-dropping acts and antics. Mixing Education With Entertainment As the first act in the show starts to unfold, Karen takes the microphone again, telling the audience about the Kenyan warriors and the legend of a rich Bantu king (Bantu meaning “people” in many African languages). “The king wanted someone to marry his daughter,” Karen tells the anxious onlookers. “So, he called the tribesmen together and told them whoever can go under the steel bar the lowest can claim her.” The performers then thrill the audience with a limbo act using a crossbar of fire - the bar dropping a notch each time an acrobat clears it until it is only inches above the stage floor. What the Kalamas and company bring to the stage, as revealed in their opening segment, is a unique mix of education and family entertainment. “We teach the audience some Swahili (national language of Kenya) during the shows as well,” she added. On selected days during their summer performance schedule the company also stages parades featuring traditional costumes, dance and drumming. A typical performance schedule at a facility will include three shows on weekdays with four shows each weekend day. The stage acts include fire ring jumping, a human pyramid, magic, feats of strength and Krystina Kalama as a contortionist. Vigorous Training “We train every single day, morning and afternoon, as we have to stay in shape,” Karen said of the conditioning required to be an acrobat. Jacob performs in much of the company’s show, with Karen and Krystina teaming up with the rest of the troupe to form the human pyramid. The Kalamas have performed at numerous large theme parks in the nation, including Disneyland in California, Disney World in Florida and Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. Roots In Kenya Karen, now 42, immigrated to the United States when she was 5, while Jacob, 40, has been here for 11 years. They met in their homeland and started a training school there seven years ago. “As performers become prepared for the circuit, we can send them to Europe and the United States to perform,” Karen said of the school they oversee in Mombassa from November through February of each year. “It’s a small coastal town on the Indian Ocean, and we have a permanent home in North Carolina as well.” While training during the winter months in Kenya, Jacob also produces the new shows the company will present on tour during the coming season. The entire U.S. troupe that is traveling as two companies this summer came to North Carolina with the Kalamas in February, performing mostly single evening shows until the full tour season starts. Jacob is not only an acrobat, but also an artist as he designs most of colorful costumes, many of which are completed during the off-season in Africa. “When we go back to Kenya, we actually take care of everything for the upcoming year then,” Karen said of their lifestyle. During the off-season, they are not only busy training and preparing the shows for the coming season, but the Kalamas must attend international and regional trade shows to book their acts. Life On The Road They also face the rigors of the road in taking their acts to amusement parks, fairs and festivals. “The toughest thing about traveling is going to different locations and staying in hotels, and then moving on to the next venue,” she said. As for performing more than 20 shows a week, Karen says they do not grow tired of the routine. “We will see people of all ages smiling, clapping and having fun at every show - making all of our hard work rewarding.” And while all of the entertainers speak fluent English, they enjoy hearing “jambo” (a simple Swahili greeting) coming from the audience on occasion. For more information about the Kenya Safari Acrobats, visit http://www.kenyasafariacrobats.com/ For more information about Quassy Amusement Park, visit http://www.quassy.com/ _____________________________________________________________________ Wallingford Rotary Barbeque Celebrates 53 Years This year the Wallingford Rotary will celebrate its 53rd Annual Barbeque on Saturday August 8, 2009 with a different flavor. This annual event will feature a new day, new menu, new music, children’s games, a dunk tank, a classic car show and all with extended hours. Traditionally known as the Rotary Chicken Barbeque this year pork ribs will be added to the menu. There will be both an adult and child’s meal. The adult meal includes grilled chicken breast, 1/3 rack pork ribs, corn on the cob, corn bread, cookie and a drink for $14.00. The child’s meal includes a hot dog, chips, cookie and a drink for $7.00. The day’s events include music by Ferraro Events, children’s activities, Amber Alert and a silent auction. The Rotary Club hopes to make this event a fun filled Family Day and the proceeds will serve the community through the Wallingford Foundation. The Wallingford Foundation is the charitable giving portion of the Rotary Club of Wallingford. The Wallingford Foundation has given approximately $800,000.00 locally and around the world. PLEASE join us on the Gaylord Farms Grounds located on Gaylord Farms Road, Wallingford, Connecticut from 1:00PM – 6:00PM Civitan Club Golf Classic The 11th annual Meriden/Wallingford Civitan Club Golf Classic will be held August 12th at the Tradition Golf Club in Wallingford beginning with registration and a full American breakfast set for 7:30 A.M. A scramble shotgun start will be at 8:30 A.M. All proceeds will benefit the club’s special education scholarship fund. The $125.00 fee includes 18 holes w/cart, tee package, cash awards, pro shop gift certificates, $1500 hole-in-one, and awards dinner of chicken parmigiana/Italian buffet. Make checks payable to M/W Civitan Club with entry form no later than August 1st. For more information call George Paradis at (203) 440-4728 or Matt Oblon (203) 284-1685. ___________________________________________________ Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon The Animal Haven is looking for business sponsors for its annual Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon on September 26, 2009 We are asking local businesses to sponsor our annual Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon to be held September 26, 2009 at Pierpont Park on the North Haven Town Green. Business sponsor names will be listed on the back of the Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon T-shirt and on the schedule given to every participant. The Animal Haven takes in adoptable homeless pets and takes pride in matching them with loving, permanent homes. Our shelter runs on private donations and receives no funds from town or government sources. Since 1948, The Animal Haven has been proudly serving people and homeless pets of the Greater New Haven, Connecticut area. The Animal Haven annual Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon has traditionally been a great morning full of fun and activities for people and canines, and an opportunity for them to join forces in raising money that helps keep our shelter doors open. Every walker gets a free T-shirt and a gift for their dog with their entry fee of $15 per walker. Most participants obtain additional funds when they ask family and friends to sponsor them. You don’t need a dog to walk in support of The Animal Haven! To be a sponsor, please mail your business name, address and telephone number, and contact information with your $50 donation to The Animal Haven c/o WADAT, 89 Mill Rd., North Haven, CT 06473. The deadline to submit your business information is September 1, 2009. For more information about the walk, please contact Joan Parrotta at 203-281-4401. You can also visit The Animal Haven at 89 Mill Rd., North Haven, Connecticut, visit their website at www.theanimalhaven.com, or call them at 203.239.2641. _______________________________________________________________________________ The Parent & the Egg "Some are born great, others have greatness thrust upon them." (Teddy Roosevelt from Night at the Museum) It may be strange to hear, but a parent leader is a lot like an egg. I don’t mean an egg like Mork’s (for the parents old enough to remember Mork & Mindy), but an egg egg – the incredible edible type. Eggs – and parent leaders – are full of potential and need an event to get what’s inside out. All eggs are full of potential. Some eggs’ potential is for food/sustenance. Eggs are in almost everything we eat – unless one is a vegan of course. We can eat eggs at every meal and they can sustain all ages and all economic levels. And some eggs’ potential is for life: hard shelled poultry eggs, soft shelled reptile eggs, and mammals’ shell-less eggs. Despite my twins’ recent argument that humans don’t come from eggs, we all came from eggs. Parent leaders are full of potential as well. As parents, we both give life to and sustain our families. As parent leaders, we also give life to and sustain our communities. Eggs also must have an event to get what is inside out. For food eggs, an external event (like cracking for a recipe) gets what’s inside out. For life eggs, an internal event gets what’s inside out – that’s why a chick has a hatching tooth on its beak… Like food eggs, some parent leaders are made. External events – like a major neighborhood change or diagnosis of a child’s chronic illness – can push parents into leadership. Like life eggs, some parent leaders are born. Internal events – like a desire to enhance and expand the life choice of their children or to share their talents and skills with the community – can take leaders who happen to be parents as well to the next level. The Parent Leadership Training Institute can help both types of parents strengthen their leadership skills and experiences. Internally, parents sign up for PLTI on their own. Externally, parents are given the opportunity to learn/hone their leadership skills through the external events they experience while working on their community projects. Who would’ve thunk it? Parent leaders are indeed like eggs. Nah noo. Nah noo. by Julissa Nixon, 2009 PLTI Graduate To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to www.peoplespressnews.com . We are your NewsMagazine! I Often Contemplate. . . . . . What are the moments that change us? The Moments that Call Us to Action? The Moments that RE-DEFINE our lives? Moments, that spark inside of us and with infinite clarity tell us. . . . . . . THAT’S WHO I NEED TO BE . . . . or. . . THAT’S WHAT I NEED TO DO Well, my moment was about a year ago, I was helping out in my children’s kindergarten class and What I thought would be a fun filled day of watching the children interacting with others and catching a glimpse of their educational journey, turned into my learning experience After starting out the day and getting through a few lessons it was soon snack time. As the children excitedly reached into their backpacks,, to find what treasures were waiting for them, out came the cookies – chips – carrot-sticks, and all kinds of snack that they proudly displayed to their friends. The room had a Christmas-Morning-Like feeling as the kids anxiously tore into their packages. And As their full little mouths began to grow quite I had noticed ,strangely, a few gloomy faces. Then My heart fell sad to see that these little faces had no snacks, like a child myself I had rushed to tell the teacher , quickly she reached into her desk and pulled out enough snacks for everyone! Tragedy Averted A simple thing really, it’s just a snack , right? I as a parent have made that mistake and forgot to pack one for my kids. Unfortunately for some of these children this is happening every day. Their teacher also told me that some are also missing things like backpacks , folders , and many other items needed for proper development , but , like the snacks, she is ready with back-ups Even more surprised-I- was to find out where the money for all of this was coming from , After all when you stop and add it all up , student after student , year after year , it seems like enough money to solve our towns budget problems. Well sure enough, it had been our teachers that were quietly bearing the burden. And there is was , my moment, my decision was made! , I WILL do something about this! My mind had raced for days it seemed, but something was missing , Not passion, not excitement, it was actually the “how” not knowing where to turn or who to talk to it all seemed SO overwhelming. AND That’s where PLTI comes in. I, along with my classmates are now empowered to solve problems like this from what we learned with the curriculum, our individual community projects, and each other. I chuckle a little bit now when I hear the phrase “learning is fun” true as that may be, but I realize it’s the “knowing” that has helped me make a difference. By Erin Reig, 2009 Meriden PLTI Graduate ___________________________________________________________________ Cheerleading Clinic The Sheehan Cheerleaders are hosting a cheerleading clinic at Sheehan High School on Saturday, August 29th for girls age 5 - 13. The cost of the clinic is $25.00. Participants will learn a cheer, chant, and stunt to be performed at a football game. Participants also receive a t-shirt. For more information regarding registration for the clinic please contact Tracey Shook at sheehancheercoach@sbcglobal.net. _____________________________________________________________________ Brian David Ash Memorial Fire Prevention Fundraiser This September 11th, 12th and 13th, from 9 am to 8 pm, The Brian David Ash Fire Memorial Fire Prevention Fund will hold its twenty-third annual fundraiser at Stop & Shop on East Main Street in Meriden. The fund was created in memory of our son Brian, who perished in a house fire twenty-six years ago. We decided to establish a fund in his name to promote fire safety education. We had learned that we couldn’t just give money to the fire department, because it would have to go into the city’s general fund, and probably wouldn’t find its way to their budget. Over the past twenty-three years we have been running this fund, we have generated thousands of dollars, which have been used in our campaign to promote our life saving message, “Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives.” We have done a lot to try to make this more than a well-worked slogan. Yet, on many occasions we have heard in the news of fatal fires where smoke detectors were not present. For generations, we have heard the slogan, “Don’t Drink and Drive”, yet alcohol related accidents are still common. Advertising experts claim that there is merit to repetitive messages. Unfortunately, we don’t know when these messages do sink in, so we continue in the hope that statistics would have been different had we not taken the effort. Most of our funds are spent on educational items. Over the years we have purchased fire safety videos and books for the fire department and schools. We have purchased coloring books on fire safety, and even have crayons that have been donated to us. We also have purchased many brochures and posters on fire safety. Every year we buy plastic fireman hats that are distributed to the local elementary schools during fire prevention week each October. We also give the fire department magnets and batteries to give to the older students at the same time. Each year we purchase a couple of specialty advertising items that promote our mission and the fund. We try to get items, which are different and will be used regularly. Some of the unique specialty items we have purchased are: oven sticks, which are used to push and pull a hot oven rack, Computer/TV screen cleaners. These were a big hit because they work much better than tissue. One item that got a lot of curious looks was a soft drink can cover. They actually keep carbonated beverages from going flat. This year we are giving out coffee scoops and refrigerator magnets. Items that are different, and get used a lot have a great appeal to us, and people remember them. During the last three years we have been using Brian Ash Fund Frisbee’s as plates during our annual fundraiser. Hot dog, soda, chips, and a Frisbee all for $2.00! What a lofty idea? For several years we have also donated money to the fire department for the purchase of batteries for distribution to those who need them. We continue to think of new ways to deliver an old message, because the necessity for has not gone away. ______________________________________________________________ Upcoming August Events at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, Meriden CT 06450 203-639-2856 http://www.curtisculturalcenter.org/ Red Cross Blood Drive August 26th,2009 Join us at the Augusta, 175 East Main Street, Meriden for our Annual Blood drive at the Center .....1pm to 6pm. Please contact 1-800-GIve-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) to schedule appointment. http://www.bloodct.org/ _____________________________________________________________________ Wallingford Family YMCA Camp Ulbrich 2009 Ongoing, Financial Assistance Available!! Make new friends, meet new challenges and have fun! The start of the 2009 camp season is just days away and the Wallingford Family YMCA is excited and ready for this coming season. New camp groups such as Rascals, All-Stars, AdventurTeens, Outdoor Explorers and Counselors-in-Training join os for a fun-filled summer! We invite all Wallingford children ages 5 through 15 to participate in swimming, rock climbing, hiking and nature projects at Bertini Park, field trips, arts & crafts, sports activities and much more! Camp Ulbrich is state licensed and accredited by the American Camp Association. Financial assistance is still available for qualifying families. The Wallingford Family YMCA will “never turn anyone away without the inability to pay”! Please visit or call the YMCA 269-4497 TODAY, to register. Camp sessions are running from June 29th through August 28th!! ___________________________________________________________ 32nd Annual Father Lyddy Memorial Golf Classic On Sunday, August 16, 2009, the Men’s Club of St. Frances Cabrini Church in North Haven will be holding their 32nd Annual Father Lyddy Memorial Golf Classic. It will be held at Hunter Memorial Golf Course in Meriden, CT. We are hoping to make this a most memorable day for all our golfers. The price, which includes 18 holes of golf with cart, prizes, buffet dinner at Hunter Memorial and open bar, is $95 per person. It will be a 4 man scramble format. If you don’t have four, we will match you up. Shotgun starts at 1:00 p.m. For applications to golf or be a sponsor please contact John Crowe (203)315-7706, Fred Kelly (203)239-3634 or Jim Barry at (203)239-9381. _______________________________________________________________________________________ The Fourth Annual Uria and Johanna Fishbein Memorial Golf Classic The Fourth Annual Uria and Johanna Fishbein Memorial Golf Classic will take place Saturday, August 29th at Traditions Golf Club in Wallingford. The tournament will benefit the Children's Concert performed each year by the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra and the Uria and Johanna Fishbein Educational Scholarship Fund. The Foundation was established in four years ago by the Fishbein Family as a means in which the family members could replicate and continue the contributions of Uria and Johanna to the Wallingford community. The children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren of Uria and Johanna comprise the Foundation Board and run the tournament. In the Spring of each year, the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra presents the Children's Concert which was initiated with the joint creative effort of Johanna Fishbein and Maestro Philip Ventre. For the past 30 years this performance has been enjoyed by every third and fourth grade student in the Town of Wallingford with the intention of providing the children an opportunity to appreciate and understand fine music. In 2004 the Children's Concert was renamed The Uria and Johanna Fishbein-Wallingford Symphony Orchestra Children's Concert to commemorate their enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to this annual performance. The Uria and Johanna Fishbein Memorial Educational Scholarship Fund was formed in 2005 to benefit qualifying students in the Town of Wallingford who need financial assistance in pursuing their educational careers. To date over $20,000. has been donated to these two activities. Anyone interested in playing, being a sponsor, and/or attending the evening dinner should call Brendan Fishbein Gallagher at 203-208-1642 or Jennifer Fishbein Croston at 203-269-5623. To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine! _____________________________________________________________________________________ MidState Medical Center’s MediQuick Moves to New Location in East Meriden Other Hospital Services to Follow Beginning in late Spring, MidState Medical Center’s MediQuick will open in its new location in East Meriden. The urgent care center, which has been in operation on Paddock Avenue for years, will be relocating to a prime spot at 60 Pomeroy Avenue, where accessibility off of Interstate 91 and business-rich Research Parkway will make care more convenient for its patients. MediQuick will be operating out of a larger, state-of-the-art facility similar in appearance to MidState Medical Center. Hours of operation will remain the same; open seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 7:30 pm, except for the seven major holidays. Patients will have additional amenities while receiving care at the new site, including more privacy thanks to the design of the space; there are 10 private treatment rooms, four more than it currently has, as well as a private registration area, where patients can exchange their personal information in a secluded area. Radiology services will continue to be conveniently offered on-site, with brand new equipment. "MediQuick has been a vital part of the community, serving East Meriden for many years. Our providers at this center consistently receive high marks for patient satisfaction, and this relocation will enhance our patient's experience by providing convenient access and ample parking, in a comfortable setting. MidState's goal is for every patient to have the same excellent experience—no matter which location the visit,” said Karen Goyette, Vice President of Administration and Business Development. Providers at MediQuick are able to provide care for minor illnesses and injuries such as sore throat, earache, sinus pain, minor burns, a rash, back pain, the flu or a minor sports injury. X-rays and basic laboratory testing is also available. As always, symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath may indicate a life-threatening condition, in which case the MidState Medical Center Emergency Department would be the most appropriate place to obtain care. Approximately 90 days following the move, MidState’s new East Meriden property will become home to several other outpatient services currently housed within the walls of the hospital on Lewis Avenue. They include the Infectious Disease Clinic, the Diabetes Center, Sleep Care Center, Wound Care Center, and programs and services for the Weight Management Program. The new facility will also have community conference room space for health and wellness programming. For information, call 203-694-8200, or visit http://www.midstatemedical.org/. Do you have a MidState doctor? call: 1 866-MMC-5678 _______________________________________________________________________________-- Explore Technology on a CyberSafari New Exhibit Opens at The Children’s Museum The Children’s Museum has opened an exciting new exhibit, CyberSafari, a computer lab just for kids. The computer programs offered in CyberSafari cover a variety of fun science topics including animals, life science, dinosaurs, meteorology, and simple machines. Ten new computer workstations, located in a new glass-walled room in the Museum’s Kids’ Corner, offer children the chance to use educational software and explore computers in a safe, age-appropriate atmosphere. The CyberSafari software provides student-centered, imaginative learning opportunities and goes hand-in-hand with the Museum’s other exhibits. Kids learn science through simulation, such as creating natural environments and populating them with animals and plants, or building helicopters, boats and other machines. “We knew this mix of fun and learning would be popular with kids. What we did not expect was the number of parents and other caregivers who are excited about being able to preview and learn more about educational computer products to buy for children. Those are the kind of connections we like to make here,” said Kevin Sullivan, President and CEO of The Children’s Museum. Examples of programs: SimPark – populate a park with animals and plants to learn about ecology and habitats V-labs Electricity – building circuits to learn how electricity makes lights and machines work Galaxy Explorer – exploring stars and planets to learn about astronomy Workshop – building helicopters and ships to learn about engineering The renovation of the CyberSafari space was made possible by the Ahearn Family Foundation. Computer hardware was donated by KeyLynx Technologies. The Ahearn Family Foundation, located in Manchester, Conn., was established in 1994 to assist specific needs of programs that serve the poor, support the arts, and enhance education. KeyLynx Technologies, located in East Hartford, Conn., provides complete installation of computers, networking, servers, upgrades and repairs throughout Connecticut and Western Massachusetts. More information is available at http://www.keylynx.com/. The Children’s Museum offers hands-on science exhibits, live animals, out-of-this-world digital planetarium shows, and programs for younger children and families. With over 210,000 visitors annually, it is one of Connecticut’s top museum attractions. The Children’s Museum is located at 950 Trout Brook Drive in West Hartford. More information is available at http://www.thechildrensmuseumct.org/. _______________________________________________________________________________-- To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine! _______ SUMMERTIME SPECIALS OFFERED AT FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE The Friends of the Library Bookstore at 35 West Main Street in downtown Meriden is currently offering a wide selection of summertime reading at half price. Looking for the best way to tackle your favorite summer sport? Books on golf, baseball, cycling, running, sailing, fishing and much more will teach you the finer points. Rather spend these hot lazy days sitting on a cool porch or reclining in a hammock with a good book? The store is presently overflowing with perfect summer reads…from romance to adventure, personal triumphs to spy novels, mystery and science fiction. Take along a couple of paperbacks on a plane trip, to the beach or mountains or curl up at home with a nice big hardcover novel just for the fun of it. Summer is the time to indulge yourself, take it easy and escape into a good book. The Friends of the Library Bookstore has the perfect books for you at reasonable prices. Since all of our gently used, nearly new books have been donated by library patrons who love to read, we can sell them at $2 for a hardcover and $1 for a paperback….and many of these will be offered at half price! Our most expensive, handsome coffee table are $5 and less. Come in and browse! Our friendly volunteers are eager to help with your choices. We’re open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We even validate parking for two hours in the city parking garage behind the store. _________________________________________________________________________ SHS CLASS OF 84 REUNION 11/28/09 - AQUA TURF 6-12 PM please contact ginapellegrino238@yahoo.com (Gina Ferracci) _______________________________________________________________________________-- Mohegan Sun Bus Trip! To benefit JHH’s annual Cut-A-Thon Saturday, August 29th, 2009 Price: $50.00 per person Includes: *Transportation*$15.00 Food Voucher*$15.00 Betting Voucher*Lite snacks and soft beverages will be provided on the bus*First come, first serve, Seats are limited!!*Departure time: 5:00p.m. *The bus will leave from the commuter’s lot on Bee Street in Meriden*Return time: 12:00p.m. *The bus will leave the casino at 12:00, and arrive back in town around 1:15a.m. Please call Jen at 860.316.5846 Haircuts and more to benefit charity It’s that time of year again, where all of Jennifer’s House of Hair’s employee’s participate in the annual Cut-A-Thon. The Cut-A-Thon is our annual charity event, in which we raise money for local organizations in need of support. We look to the community for help, whether it is with items to raffle off at the event or just spreading the word. This year has been very hard for people, and we feel that it is important for communities to come together and to not give up on giving. The salon has given us the avenue to be in contact with people that we know can help and will try to make a difference. This year Jennifer’s House of Hair has selected a couple of organizations to donate to. Here’s the low-down on all the charities: Our Companions: Our Companions is a nonprofit organization that believes no pet should ever be homeless. Every pet is a beautiful, blessed creature that deserves life and love. Yet, in Connecticut, healthy pets are destroyed every day. Some animals facing euthanasia have behavior problems that are easily corrected. Others have health issues that can be resolved in a caring home. Most just need the right treatment and a loving human companion. The staff, animal experts, and volunteers at Our Companions believe there's a proper home for nearly every pet. We're working to create homes for the state's most abused, most neglected, most needy pets. Today we offer dog training classes, one-to-one pet consultations, community education, and many other services. To find out more about this organization and how you can help, visit the web http://www.ourcompanions.org/ Chrysalis for Meriden/Wallingford: Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis, Inc provides a safe emergency shelter and services to women and their children who must flee their own homes because of domestic violence. The Chrysalis can house up to fifteen women and children in a confidential location for up to sixty days. During this time, a woman has the opportunity to plan her next move without the fear of abuse. The staff at the Chrysalis provides daily one-on-one counseling sessions and works with the woman on short and long term goal setting. Weekly support groups are held with trained facilitators, and peer-counseling, anger management, and self-esteem development are critical issues that the staff work on daily with the women and children. Mission Statement: The Mission of Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis is to offer safety and alternatives to violence to women and children, to validate their worth by promoting a philosophy which empowers women and children to take control of their lives by making their own choices and decisions WITHOUT the fear of abuse. Jennifer’s House of Hair is hosting their 5th annual Cut-A-Thon to benefit the Meriden/Wallingford Chrysalis for Women and Children, and Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary. The event will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 9:00a.m to 3:00p.m at the salon, which is located at 437 Broad Street, Meriden. Wash and Cuts will be $15; 15 Minute Chair Massages $15, Mini Manicures $10, and Mini Pedicures $15. All services will be available on a first come, first serve basis with a sign up sheet available. While you wait everyone is welcome to enjoy the festivities. There will be a DJ, Food, Refreshments, Animals, Face Painting, Raffles and much more. It will be a great family event! All money collected will be donated 100% to the chosen organizations. If you are interested in donating refreshments, have any items you wish to raffle off, or if you just any questions please call the salon at 203.235.3166. Get a haircut and help a great cause! _______________________________________________________________________________-- Calendar of Events--Jitters Coffeehouse 1273 Queen Street Southington, CT 06489 (860) 747-1100 “Live” Original Music Doors open at 8 PM on Friday & Saturday Nights Tai Chi--5:45pm on Wednesday’s Yoga --Monday 6pmDID you know that links to the performers’ music is on our website? Click on the link below and then click on calendar of events August 2009 Aug 1--Sat--Lisa Martin--Acoustic Folk Rock music Aug 7--Fri--Mobjack band--Americana Folk Rock music Aug 8--Sat--Ian Fitzgerald--Folk Rock music Aug 14--Fri--Hank Stone--Acoustic Folk Rock music Aug 15--Sat--Chris Wilhhelm--Folk Rock music Aug 21--Fri--Denise Jordan Finley & Daniel Pagdon--Folk music with Shotgun comedy show Aug 22--Sat--Jeff Anderson--Folk Rock music Aug 28--Fri--Chorderoy--Folk Rock music-- Aug 29--Sat--Sweet Bitters--Pop Folk music _______________________________________________________________________________-- “music on the Patio” Last year’s “music on the Patio” series is back and better than ever. Originally sponsored by the Sandman Gallery, this year Steve is proud to share that honor with Paul Dominello’s Courtyard Café. Still being presented outside on the patio at 39 W. Main St. in the heart of downtown Meriden you’ll now be able feast from a select menu while listening to the same great music that the Gallery has provided in the past.

As you get to enjoy what the new downtown has to offer, dine at the café and enjoy good desserts and coffee or cold drinks while sitting and talking with good friends while listening to your old favorites live outdoors. And then browse our gallery located indoors at one of Meriden’s architectural jewels.

Art, music, good food and good friends, this is a recipe for a good time on a Friday night in downtown Meriden. When you read this the summer series will have already started with the music of Top of The Keys presented on July 31st. If you didn’t get a chance to come on down, you missed a great time. Music from the 50s and up was on tap with vocals and acoustic accompaniment with Congo percussion back-up. Since the music will be presented every other Friday during the summer, the next event will happen on August 14th From 7-9 that Friday. Food of course will be available earlier to provide you with ample time to relax and eat either before or during the entertainment. August 14th we will present the always popular “Carlos and Roy” A couple of Meriden’s own. Featuring covers and dynamite acoustic backed-up by smooth and sometimes off the wall electrical guitar work by Roy” the rocket” Roccapriori. Carlos Gonzalez, a local musician and fireman never fails to stoke the fire with his music and talent on a variety of acoustic instruments. August 28th and September 11th will feature “East Chicago Joe” and the other date “Jazz the Ripper”. We just don’t know at this time who will play which date. Either way it’s a don’t miss. East Chicago Joe croons swing tunes made popular by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennet. And when it comes to Jazz, well…..Fred Marino on organ, Bill Schaefer of Sax and a drummer to be named later will have you begging for more. If you’ve never heard live jazz. This is an opportunity to get the full experience and more….much more. When we know the exact date of these performances we will keep you informed or you can call either Paul at “Paul’s Courtyard Café 238-2328” or Steve at “The Sandman Gallery 686-0000”. And as always the entertainment is free and parking is easy and free in the parking garage located in the rear of the café. Look for future music listings in your hometown monthly edition of The Peoples Press. ____________________________________________________________________________________ WE BELIEVE…… By Bonnie Kent This is the theme for the 2010 National LCMS Youth Gathering to be held in New Orleans in August. We all know that middle and especially high school brings new challenges, opportunity and experiences to our young people and these experiences help them become our next generation to have children and to make this world a better place for all. Yet many of our youth choose the most difficult path of drugs, crimes and don’t have the support that they need from their peer and adult around them. This is where a youth’s religion can play an important role for them and the decision that they make. If they chose their god and their church will walk every stop with them through these years of learning and choosing who they are and what they are going to accomplish in our society. Today youth groups are about real relationships, community responsibility and making a true difference in the lives of others. On Tuesday, August 18th the Zion Lutheran Youth will be holding a fundraiser at Friendly’s in Wallingford from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to raise money to attend this gathering of youth to experience that there are other young people just like them who choose to follow the path of their religion. Please come and support this great group of kids bring this article or a flyer or mention this ad to the Youth Hostess and be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to a restaurant, or movie tickets or …….. We hope to see you there!!!!! __________________________________________________________________________________ Castle Bank & Trust Company and Naugatuck Savings Bank Castle Bank & Trust Company will join Naugatuck Savings Bank on August 10, 2009. We will continue to provide excellent customer service with the same friendly staff members that you deal with now. We pride ourselves on developing successful relationships by providing the products and services you need to achieve your financial goals. People have counted on Naugatuck Savings Bank since 1870 and have helped us to be one of the most financially sound banks in Connecticut. We are confident that this union provides strong financial stability, sound lending practices and superior customer service that you expect and deserve _____________________________________________________________________________________ Borders Books & Music in Meriden Announces August Community Events

Borders Books & Music, 470 Lewis Avenue, Meriden, Connecticut, has announced its roster of events for August. August 7, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Paul Sachs. 7:30 pm. This modern folk singer from NYC performs original tunes from his new CD, "The Refuge." August 14, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Mike Griffin & The Professional Heartbreakers. 7:30 pm. Indie pop singer-songwriter performs original tunes. August 18, 2009. SPECIAL EVENT: Lincoln Middle School Reads! 4:00 pm. Parents, students and educators from the Meriden school are invited to attend a special celebration of summer and reading! August 21, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Sundad. 7:30 pm. Acoustic world fusion trio from New York perform original tunes from "Journey to Eternity" and "The Journey Continues." August 28, 2009. LIVE MUSIC: Tommy Lourdes. 7:30 pm. Engaging acoustic rock from popular Meriden singer-guitarist. August 30, 2009. SPECIAL EVENT: Meriden Poetry Society. 2:00 pm. Please join members of the Meriden Poetry Society as they read selections from their 75th anniversary publication, "On Wings of a Verse." The Meriden Poetry Society is believed to be one of the oldest existing poetry societies in Connecticut. Join Miss Meg for children's story time every Tuesday and Saturday in June at 10:30 am (unless otherwise noted above**). Each week has a new, fun theme, along with a special craft. Open to all ages. All events are free to the public. For additional information, please contact Borders at (203) 237-5510. __________________________________________________________________________________ HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE 22 NO. TURNPIKE RD WALLINGFORD, CT. OPEN TUES.- SAT. 9A.M.- 5P.M. WHAT CAN 50 CENTS- $1.00 BUY? SUMMER CLOTHES, SCHOOL CLOTHES FROM INFANT TO ADULT SIZES! BOTH NEW & GENTLY USED MANY FAMOUS NAME BRAND CLOTHING PLUS SHOE CLEARANCE SALE OF SANDALS & MORE AT LOW REDUCED PRICES GOING ON DURING THIS SPECIAL CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE WHICH WILL END AUGUST 17TH. OTHER SALES DURING AUGUST ARE: BAG DAY IS BACK! FILL A BAG OF CLOTHING ONLY (excudes suits, formal wear, coats or accessories) FOR ONLY $5.00 A BAG, WITH NO LIMIT OF HOW MANY BAGS YOU MAY PURCHASE AND WE PROVIDE THE BAG! AUGUST 1ST- 8TH (SAT. TO SAT.) ALL HOUSEHOLD GLASSWARE BUY ONE GET ONE HALF PRICE(items must be similiarly priced, lowest priced item will be half off) AUGUST 13TH & 14TH (THURS. & FRI.) ALL KNICK KNACKS PRICED $3.00 OR MORE GET 20% OFF(NOT VALID ON COLLECTIBLE ITEMS) ALL TABLE LAMPS 10% OFF AUGUST 20TH- 21ST(THURS. & FRI.) ANY SHEET SIZE BUY 1 GET 1 FOR 50 CENTS(DOES NOT INCLUDE PKGED SETS) ALL CURTAINS 10% OFF AUGUST 27TH & 28TH(THURS.& FRI.) ALL JEWELRY 10% OFF ALL HOUSEHOLD GLASSWARE BUY 1 GET 1 HALF OFF(HIGHER PRICED ITEM FULL PRICE, 2ND ITEM MUST BE SIMILIAR IN PRICE OR LESS) KNICK KNACKS OVER $3.00 GET 20% OFF( DOES NOT INCLUDE COLLECTIBLE ITEMS) DURING THE WHOLE MONTH OF AUGUST THERE WILL BE FURNITURE CLEARANCE ITEMS! GRAB THEM NOW FOR COLLEGE OR YOUR FIRST APARTMENT! HELPING HANDS THRIFT STORE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL THAT DONATE OR MAKE PURCHASES AT THE STORE ALLOWING US TO CONTINUE TO HELP WOMEN & CHILDREN OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AS WE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH THE CHRYSALIS INC. ______________________________________________________________________-- MidState Medical Center Holiday Bazaar Set for November: Crafters Wanted! Are you talented in arts and crafts? Do you have a special skill in jewelry making, hand made note cards or something else? MidState Medical Center is in search of local crafters from its communities for the annual Gift Gallery Holiday Bazaar to be held on Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 9 am – 4 pm in the Horwitz Conference Center at MidState Medical Center. Because of last year’s very successful and well-attended event, the Bazaar will once again feature the talent and creativity of those in the community, in addition to employees and volunteers. Some of the crafts will include: jewelry making, photography, hand knit and crochet items, painted towels, floral arrangements, beautiful hand made accessories for the home and so much more! If you are interested in showcasing and selling your crafts, please contact Gift Gallery Manager Theresa Michalik at 203-694-8108 for more information and an application. Be sure to save the date and join us for a fun-filled day – November 14 – and get a head start on your holiday shopping! ____________________________________________________________________________________ To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine! Congratulations to The East Haven Animal Shelter for winning the first inaugural 'Willy Award'. This award was the result of the many generous contributions from all exhibitors and attendees participating in the Durham Pet Fair held May 17th at the Durham Veterinary Hospital. To apply for the award, Shelters and Rescues were asked to write a short essay explaining how the monetary donation would be best utilized at their facility if awarded. We applaud all of the participating organizations and extend special congratulations the East Haven Animal Control who captured $2,500.00 for first place. Second place was awarded to Shiz Tzu and Fur-Babies, who collected $500.00 and a $250.00 third place prize was granted to the Friends of the Berlin Animal Shelter. Attached is a picture from the event. Pictured accepting the grand prize check (from left to right) is the Mayor of East Haven, April Capone-Almon, East Haven Animal Control Officer, Christina Ruszczyk, and presenter Mark Paturzo of Help Willy's Friends. The following runner-up organizations were also awarded a free spay/neuter: The Animal Haven Greater New Haven Cat Project CATALES Forgotten Felines Rat Terrier ResQ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Food and Supply Drive to Benefit Dogs and Cats in Local Animal Shelters Help Willy's Friends is having a food and supply drive to benefit dogs and cats in local animal shelters at Agway of North Haven on Saturday, August 1st from 9:00am-4:00pm. Food, toys, blankets, and towels will be collected. Help Willy's Friends is an organization dedicated to collecting supplies to distribute among local animal shelters. This in turn assists shelter workers with providing proper, required, and additional care to animals in need. Ultimately, this results in additional time with hope of finding a new home for loving dogs and cats. Agway is located at 66 State St., North Haven. For questions, please contact Mark Paturzo at (203) 988-1718 or you can email him at willy@helpwillysfriends.org. For more information about Willy's cause, please visit Willy's website at www.helpwillysfriends.org. THANK YOU, IN ADVANCE, FOR YOUR GENEROSITY. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!! _________________________________________________________________________________ The South Meriden Lions Club is holding a Strides Walk for Diabetes on September 19, 2009 in Hubbard Park. The cost is $20.00 and includes a commemorative t-shirt for all pre-registered walkers, plenty of free food, raffles, a health tent, and lots of free parking. This is an excellent way to enjoy the park with your family and friends and help us fight diabetes. The walk will take place on flat paved surfaces in and around Hubbard Park. For additional information and registration forms please see our website: http://www.southmeridenlions.com/ _____________________________________________________________________________________ HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PTO CRAFT FAIR The Highland Elementary School PTO, 200 Highland Avenue, Wallingford, CT will hold its 26th annual Craft Fair on Saturday, December 5, 2009 at the school from 9 AM to 3 PM. If anyone is interested in an application or learning more about the Craft Fair they can contact Carole Eager at 203 235-0195 or by email at careager@aol.com. The fair features over 70 crafters including painting, jewelry, doll clothes, floral items, ceramic and sewn items, original photography, wreaths, wood items, etc. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Don't miss the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce's Annual Summer Bash! This years theme is the 40th Anniversary of Woodstock! When: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 Where: MountainRidge, 350 A-High Hill Rd., Wallingford Time: 5:30 to 8:00 pm Cost: $25.00 member $35.00 non memberincludes Summer BBQ, Beer and Wine. The QChamber will be Rockin and Rollin with Tub -Totally Unrehearsed Band! Please register by visiting our website at http://www.quinncham.com/ oremail kelly@quinncham.com or call 269-9891/234-0332*Please note all cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance to ensure refund. ___________________________________________________________________________________ Franciscan Golf Classic Webster Bank presents the 14th Annual Franciscan Golf Classic to benefit the programs and services of the Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care. This fun-filled day will be held Monday, August 31, 2009, at Tunxis Plantation Country Club, Farmington. The cost to play is $195.00. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. To register or to be a sponsor, please contact Rosellyn Giampietro at 203-237-8084. For more information visit our web site at www.flcenter.org ___________________________________________________________________________________ MidState Medical Center Announces 2009 Cancer Survivors’ Day The Cancer Center at MidState Medical Center announces its annual Cancer Survivors’ Day to be held on Sunday, September 13, 2009, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event will once again be held at Meriden’s own Hubbard Park, where a large tent will be constructed to accommodate nearly 300 survivors and their families. Cancer Survivors’ Day is a national event traditionally celebrated the first Sunday in June. MidState, however, chooses to celebrate the day in September to give it added distinction among all of the other cancer-related events that take place during the month. Staff wants the day to have only one focus: “This is a celebration of life,” said MidState’s breast care coordinator, Kathy Clements, RN, ON-C, BHPN-C. Cancer survivors are encouraged to bring their family and friends to share in the day. Activities for children include face, painting, balloon animals, and caricature drawings. Survivors can treat themselves to a relaxing chair massage; and of course, musical entertainment and refreshments can be enjoyed by all. MidState’s own “Lewis Avenue” will kick off the program with a pre-hour of music. Both survivors and caregivers will share how cancer has changed their lives and offer inspirational messages and words of wisdom to others. Cancer Survivors’ Day was initiated in 1993 when MidState was known as Veterans’ Memorial Medical Center. It wasn’t until 2003 that the event returned annually thanks to Clements and MidState’s oncology social worker, Diane Lafferty, LCSW. The event has grown exponentially since its inception, once attracting 40 people and now drawing over 250. “Caregivers are especially encouraged to attend,” said Lafferty. Their tremendous support and advocacy for the patient are great contributors to the healing process, and they, too, should take part in the celebration of life. For more information or to register for Cancer Survivors’ Day, please contact the Cancer Center at MidState at 203-694-8353. Registration is preferred. __________________________________________________________________________________ Osterman Community Foundation Golf Classic The Osterman Community Foundation (OCF) is hosting its 5th Annual OCF Charity Golf Classic. The event will be held on Wednesday, September 16, at the Tradition Golf Course in Wallingford, CT. The cost is $160 per person. The day includes 18 holes of golf with cart, on-course refreshments, $10,000 hole in one contest (50/50 split), raffle, barbeque luncheon, other contests, gift bag and buffet dinner reception. There are also several sponsor levels available including: golf cart sponsor for $50, hole sponsor for $200, beverage cart sponsor for $600 and Platinum sponsorships for $5,000. All sponsorships include your name displayed on a sign or banner. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the OCF. The OCF is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial relief to qualified individuals, families or groups in our communities. The OCF has made it a goal to seek out opportunities to help such people when they had no reason to expect our assistance. Because of your support the OCF is able to make a difference and provide hope. During this year we provided assistance with food, heating oil, utilities, child care, rent, medical bills, auto repairs, etc. We provided this help to people facing a multitude of hardships – medical conditions, loss of work, added family responsibilities, home fires, and single parent situations. For example we paid rent and car expense for a Mom with 3 kids, who was hit by a drunk driver, endured many severe medical problems (over 30 surgeries and MRSA virus) and is now permanently disabled. This family has struggled financially, losing their home and car. We purchased hearing aids for an 8 year old boy. He lost his hearing from the medication needed in conjunction with his 4 open heart surgeries necessary to save his life from congenital heart disease. The family struggled financially from all medical bills and insurance covered only 25% of the $8,000 cost. We paid rent and security deposit for a young family previously living in a rodent and bug infested apartment. This family has been struggling to provide a better life for their 2 year old daughter. They are both in school completing their GED and working low paying jobs. We purchased a laptop for a high school boy who over the past year was diagnosed with a brain tumor and endured 7 surgeries. Upon returning to school, he was in a car accident and severely injured. He had to be hospitalized and sent to a rehabilitation center. His doctors recommended a laptop to aid in his rehab. His family could not afford one due to overwhelming medical bills. Please help us continue to make a difference and be a part of a growing tradition. If you would like to play golf or be a sponsor, contact Darlene Stickney at the Osterman Community Foundation at 203-272-2233 or e-mail dstickney@osterman-co.com. ________________________________________________________________________________ The Animal Haven is looking for business sponsors for its annual Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon on September 26, 2009 We are asking local businesses to sponsor our annual Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon to be held September 26, 2009 at Pierpont Park on the North Haven Town Green. Business sponsor names will be listed on the back of the Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon T-shirt and on the schedule given to every participant. The Animal Haven takes in adoptable homeless pets and takes pride in matching them with loving, permanent homes. Our shelter runs on private donations and receives no funds from town or government sources. Since 1948, The Animal Haven has been proudly serving people and homeless pets of the Greater New Haven, Connecticut area. The Animal Haven annual Walk-A-Dog-A-Thon has traditionally been a great morning full of fun and activities for people and canines, and an opportunity for them to join forces in raising money that helps keep our shelter doors open. Every walker gets a free T-shirt and a gift for their dog with their entry fee of $15 per walker. Most participants obtain additional funds when they ask family and friends to sponsor them. You don’t need a dog to walk in support of The Animal Haven! To be a sponsor, please mail your business name, address and telephone number, and contact information with your $50 donation to The Animal Haven c/o WADAT, 89 Mill Rd., North Haven, CT 06473. The deadline to submit your business information is September 1, 2009. For more information about the walk, please contact Joan Parrotta at 203-281-4401. You can also visit The Animal Haven at 89 Mill Rd., North Haven, Connecticut, visit their website at www.theanimalhaven.com, or call them at 203.239.2641. To read The People’s Press, Meriden and Wallingford Ct’s Newspaper in image or pdf form go to http://www.peoplespressnews.com/ . We are your NewsMagazine!