Local News and Events February 2010

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! What's Happening at Temple B'nai Abraham? Temple B'nai Abraham in Meriden is a Conservative synagogue which provides religious, educational and social programming for all age groups in a warm, extended family atmosphere. Services are egalitarian, and feature congregational singing. All are welcome. We are located at 127 East Main Street. Weekly services are on Thursdays at 8:00 a.m., Friday nights (call for time), Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m., and Sunday morning at 9:30 a.m. (when religious school is in session.) Here is what is happening in February. Come visit us. February 7th 9:15 a.m.- World Wide WrapThe World Wide Wrap is a program of the Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs that teaches Jews from around the world how to perform the mitzvah (commandment) of wrapping tefillin. Tefillin are two small square black boxes with leather straps attached to them. One box on the forehead and the other on the left arm (close to the heart). The boxes contain a scroll with selected verses from Deuteronomy and Exodus. Following the morning service the Rabbi will speak on the commandment to put on tefillin and why it is acceptable for women to do so February 7th 1:00 p.m. - Family Bowling withTemple B'nai AbrahamJoin us for an afternoon of family fun on Sunday, February 7th at 1:00 p.m. at Colony Lanes in Wallingford. The cost is $11.00 per person which includes: 2 slices of cheese pizza, soda, shoe rental, and 2 hours of bowling. Please call 203-235-2581 to RSVP. Snow date is February 14th. February 12th 6:00 p.m. -Family Shabbat ServicePlease join us on Friday, February 12th at 7:30 p.m. as we celebrate Shabbat (the Sabbath). Saturday services are at 9:30 a.m. February 27th 6:30 p.m. - Shake Your Groggers at Temple B'nai Abraham's Purim Party!Nosh some hamentaschen and shake your groggers at Temple B'nai Abraham's Purim Party on Saturday February 27th! Come in costume, join the parade, win prizes, and make some noise! Cheer for Esther and Mordecai! Boo Haman! What will Rabbi Kohn's costume be? Come and see! Megillah reading and Purim Party at 6:30 p.m. There will also be Purim Services Sunday morning February 28th at 9:30 a.m.February Adult Education Classes Rabbi Michael Kohn continues his series of adult education classes. On Monday nights we are starting a Beginning Hebrew class (call for details). Wednesday nights alternate between Synagogue Service Class (Feb 3rd and 17th) and Torah/Haftorah/Megillah Class (Feb. 10th and 24th). Every Thursday at noon, come discuss the weekly Torah portion with us. And our discussion of Life Cycle Events continues on Sunday Feb. 14th from 11:00 to 12:30 with observances related death and mourning. All classes are open to the community and there is no charge to attend. For more information about any of these services or events call 203-235-2581 or visit us on the web at www.meridentemple.org Lincoln Middle School Pasta Dinner & Live Auction Friday, March 5, 2010 Proceeds to benefit Lincoln Middle School’s Student Enrichment Activities Special guest Auctioneer will be local children’s author EDDIE ‘SPAGHETTI’ SIEBERT! Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following locations: Lincoln Middle School, Tom’s Place - Main Street, S. Meriden, Salon Nathaniel - 1247 E. Main Street Pasta Dinner Time: 5:30-6:30 Location: Lincoln Cafe Tickets: $5.00 pp (Price of ticket includes one auction paddle. Additional auction paddles are $1.00 each). $3.50 per child (age 10 and under) Auction Time: 6:30 Preview 7:00 Auction Location: Lincoln Auditorium _________________________________________________________________________________ MARDI GRAS MADNESS Chase away your winter blues at MARDI GRAS MADNESS at Our Lady of Fatima Parish Hall, 382 Hope Hill Road, Yalesville on Saturday, February 20 from 6:30PM until 9:30PM. Come as you are or in costume (the best one gets a prize). You provide your dinner; we provide dessert, punch, coffee, tea, surprises and the rollicking, live Dixieland music of the SUGARFOOT JAZZ BAND. Families and friends welcome! Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets available at the church after weekend masses (Sat. 4PM and Sun. 8:30AM and 10:30AM) beginning Jan. 30/31 or at the Rectory (203-265-0961). Sponsored by the Fatima Women’s Club. Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll)! ____________________________________________________________________________________ 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! Sheehan Class of 85 Reunion Planned Attention Mark T. Sheehan High School Class of 1985 grads: The 25th class reunion is planned for Friday, November 26, 2010. Additional information can be found online at: www.MTS85.info. Alumni are encouraged to register for reunion updates and information while visiting the site. ___________________________________________________________________________The Augusta Curtis Cultural Center, 175 East Main Street, Meriden will be hosting the following February events: ***Carabase Training's Fit Body Boot CampEvery Tuesday & Thursday evening 6pm to 7pmA workout program based on your own personal needs! Anyone can participate at any level....Personal Trainer Joe Carabase will be leading this fitness boot camp which is a fun alternative to the gym and is for everyone to join. If you are interested in joining call 860-918-3057 or e-mail joe@carabasetraining.com ***Augusta Curtis Concert Band RehearsalsRehearsal are held every Monday from 7pm-9pm except HolidaysAny age or level of playing can join us! Rehearsals held at Lincoln Middle School, Centennial Road, Meriden, CT. Just show up or call Jeff at 203-715-0855 for more info. The band will be playing on APril 18th in Hubbard Park and July 1st in the Rosa Ponselle Memorial Garden outside the Center. ***Annual AppealWe need your support! Please help us to continue to be Meriden's Arts & Cultural Center by donating to our Appeal. You can mail donations to ACCC, P.O. Box 4173 or visit our website at www.curtisculturalcenter.org home page and click on donate button to use credit card or paypal for your donation.. We appreciate your support.2/1/2010 to 4/1/2010 ____________________________________________________________________________________ SPRING 2010 REGISTRATION SET FOR JACK BARRY LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL The Jack Barry Little League will be holding registration for the spring 2010 season on February 4th at the John Barry Elementary school (Lewis Ave, Meriden) and Dicks Sporting Goods (Westfield Mall, Lewis Ave, Meriden) February 17th . Sign-ups will be from 6:30 to 8 PM and are open to boys and girls 5-16 years of age. Birth certificate and proof of residency required for all players. Please attend one of the earlier signups to avoid the “last minute rush”. School closings or early dismissal due to bad weather will cancel registration that night. Call 235-8766 or visit us on-line at www.jbll.net for more information. ________________________________________________________________________________ Spring Luncheon The Meriden Intermediates Club will hold a Spring Luncheon on, Wednesday, March 10. The event will be held at the North Italian Club at 43 Thorpe Avenue in Meriden from 12:00 to 3:00. Guest speakers will be Scott Haney and Kara Sundlun. Kara and Scott are co-hosts of the TV show, Better Connecticut, which airs daily on Channel 3 at 10:00 a.m. Tickets are $10.00 and may be purchased from Carol Bonaiuto at (203) 634-1855. ______________________________________________________ MxCC Bowlathon coming to Wallingford Bowl Get ready for “March Madness” – a Bowlathon fundraiser for Middlesex Community College to be held at Wallingford Bowl on Saturday, March 27. The Bowlathon is designed to raise support for Student Activities at the college and for projects sponsored by the Middlesex Community College Foundation. It’s a team event, with four bowlers per team. Each bowler on each team bowls two games. All participating bowlers and sponsors will be treated to pizza and soda. Teams may be entered by sponsors, businesses, and groups of individuals. There is no limit to the number of teams a business or organization may enter. Team shirts are welcome, but not required. Each bowler must raise a minimum of $30 to bowl, or $120 minimum per team. For PLEDGE FORMs, TEAM REGISTRATION FORMs and SPONSOR FORMs go to www.mxccfoundation.org. Business teams must enter as Alley Cat sponsors or higher. Deadline for registration and collection of funds raised is March 12. Contributions from non-bowlers also welcome. Trophies will be awarded to each member of the top scoring team (overall team champions) and to each member of the top fundraising team. MxCC teams will compete for a traveling trophy symbolic of campus champions; the winning team will enjoy campus “bragging rights” for a full year. The Bowlathon has been designated an alcohol-free and smoke-free college activity. It is the first fundraising event held by the MxCC Foundation in the Meriden-Wallingford area. The MxCC Meriden Center now accounts for 22 percent of the college’s total enrollment. For more information, please contact Greg Kline, director of Institutional Advancement at MxCC at 860-343-6914 or via email: gkline@mxcc.commnet.edu. 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! Let the competition & March Madness begin! The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its season of major events! Our committees are planning for the 114th Annual Meeting, Dinner & Silent Auction on Thursday, April 8th at MountainRidge; of course, the EXPO at the Daffodil Festival (inside the mega tent on the tennis courts) April 23-25; and the 23rd Annual Golf Tournament on June 9th. These events, as with all of the Chamber’s activities, all contain a piece of our four principles: Education, Leadership, Networking and Promotion. We look forward to sharing the stories from these events with you and encourage the readers of the People’s Press to learn more about the work of the chamber by visiting www.meridenchamber.com. One of the four principles that the Greater Meriden Chamber’s work is based upon is Leadership. This organization takes a proactive leadership role in moving, improving and positively changing the communities we serve. Whether it is representing Meriden on the Workforce Alliance Board or Transportation Strategy Board, or participating in public comment at City Council meetings, we help to cause results and create a roadmap for our future. Below is the Greater Meriden Chamber’s Legislative Agenda, created by the chamber’s Government & Business Development Committee, that has been shared with our city, state and federal legislators. In these improving but still uncertain economic times, Connecticut must continue to work to improve its economic competitiveness and build on its strengths. The 2010 Legislative Action Agenda lists priorities that are the keys to maintaining economic opportunity and creating sound business growth. With each vote we ask that our legislators consider the unique role of the private sector businesses in the economic recovery. We ask that our elected officials support an environment where: Businesses would again make profits so tax revenues will again flow Businesses would make investments in technology, machinery and equipment to provide new business opportunities and Businesses could hire back the state residents in the private sector jobs that are necessary for a growing economy. We ask that our legislators do no harm to business when offering, considering or passing legislation in 2010. The Economic Development agenda: Pursue proposals which strengthen previous investment, whether public or private, and comply with state, regional and local development and transportation plans including the State Economic Development Strategic Plan and the Meriden Plan of Conservation and Development. Specifically, we need to seek funding to implement: Hub Reuse / Intermodal Transit Center Factory H Remediation and Reuse Harbor Brook Flood Control Project West Main Street Streetscape Project Facilitate Undercliff Property Transfer to the City of Meriden The Energy / Technology agenda: Encourage a competitive electricity procurement process and support devel­opment of alternative energy sources that ensure reliable and affordable sources of energy to reduce the burden of energy costs on business. Encourage new legislation in the changing communications industry which would expand competition, private-sector investment and improve consumer choice. The Transportation agenda: Strengthen interstate and regional access by initiating commuter rail service between New Haven and Springfield, implementing priority projects to improve highway congestion and access including the I-691 Exit 5-6 Interchange Improvements and supporting mixed use TOD in Meriden and other opportunities along the rail line. The Arts and Entertainment agenda: Increase state programs supporting affordable Artist housing in Meriden and urban centers. We recognize that as consolidation efforts continue, tourism, arts and culture are critical to enhancing the region's economic vitality and enriching the lives of our citizens. Cultivate the Recreational, Entertainment, Arts and Leisure interests in downtown Meriden. The Workforce / Manufacturing: Keep the state workforce skilled and competitive by investing in training programs through existing Workforce Investment Boards to make Connecticut's businesses more productive and competitive. Recognize the changes in manufacturing and reassess and create incentives for manufacturers to ensure that business is supported by state and local government. The Health Care agenda: Make quality health care available to businesses and all state residents by supporting initiatives that improve access to affordable and portable health insurance coverage. Advance initiatives to stabilize Connecticut’s medical malpractice liability environment including assessing the feasibility of adopting a non-adversarial system similar to the current workers compensation system. Control competitive costs of private insurance plans to encourage and maximize business participation. Improve health care and wellness education. Additional agenda items: Maintain Funding for Education with an emphasis on Regionalism as an integral part of the solution. Seek financial support for implementing Meriden Children’s Zone project of the Meriden Early Learning Blueprint. Our stellar, award-winning website, www.meridenchamber.com is always chock full of events, news, resources, photos and more! It is THE place to visit when you are looking for a product or service. All of our members are listed by category or they may be found through name searches. The site averages well over 32,000 unique visits per month and our most visited areas include the member directory, member news, and calendars of events! November 2009 kicked off our NEW Breakfast Club Celebrates…Series! Attendance is averaging 65 at each event and it’s a GREAT way to start your day! Visit the special event pages for updates on www.meridenchamber.com. The series is also videotaped and will begin airing on Cox Channel 15 in January and the videos will also be available for viewing on the Chamber’s website! Lieutenant Governor Michael Fedele addressed over 65 members of the business community at the Breakfast Club Celebrates event on January 15th. Pictured here are Cindy Russo, MidState Medical Center (recipient of the January Shining Star Award); Vice Chairman of the Greater Meriden Chamber Board of Directors Atty. Thomas Welsh, Brown & Welsh, P.C.; Mayor Michael Rohde; Chamber President Sean W. Moore; Yvonne deAngeli Fontanez, Four Points by Sheraton; Lt. Gov. Fedele; and Chamber Board Chairman, Frank W. Ridley, F.W.R. Consulting, LLC. If you missed it, all of these breakfast events may be viewed on community access every Saturday at 5 p.m.! The Breakfast Club Celebrates Series continues on Friday, Feb. 12th from 7:30 – 9 a.m. and features Health & Fitness Guru, Rob Nevins. This event is sponsored by Sam’s Club and The Idea Company and will be held at Four Points by Sheraton. All are welcome - $18 for Chamber Members; $25 for not yet members. Many Other Upcoming Chamber Events to Keep YOU Connected With YOUR Community: Tue., 2/9: Business After Hours at Café Dolce - 5-7 p.m., A gem in the heart of downtown Meriden – great networking, refreshments and more! Thu., 2-11-10: SCORE at the Chamber – call 203.235.7901 today for an appointment! Tue., 2-23-10: Special Event for Middle/High School Students & Parents: Ed Gerety, Nationally Recognized Motivational Speaker will present a program on the dangers of the internet & much more. 6-8:30 p.m. at Lincoln M.S. RSVP: edgeretyevent@meridenchamber.com Wed.. 2-24-10: CT Business Day at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford – 7:30- noon. Thu., 2-25-10: BAH – Grand Opening of Silver City Grill at Four Points by Sheraton. 5-7 p.m Become a FAN of Greater Meriden Chamber on Facebook! Join the over 100 Facebook Friends who are already FANS of the Greater Meriden Chamber! The Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce is located at 3 Colony Street, Suite 301, Meriden, CT 06451. Ph.: 203.235.7901 / Fx.: 203.686.0172. Visit www.meridenchamber.com or email: info@meridenchamber.com __________________________________________________________ NOFA (Northeast Organic Farming Association) Interactive Workshop The Southwest Conservation District will sponsor a Workshop for the general public on ‘Organic Landcare for Homeowners’ on Thursday, March 4, 2010 6:30-8:00 at the Wallingford Senior Center, 238 Washington Street. NOFA will have a POWER POINT presentation with displays and handouts as well as a question and answer period. NOFA is the Northeast Organic Farming Association. If unable to attend the first workshop on Wallingford, the following are in the area: Sat, Mar 6 at Southington Library 10-11:30. Wed Apr 21 at Cheshire Public Library 7:00-9:30. Free—no preregistration required. For more information : 203-888-5146 or check the website at www.organiclandcare.net. Picture by Ellie Tessmer of Boulder Knoll Organic Farm in Cheshire. 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! ________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Volunteers are needed to visit frail, elderly people, to shop with or for an elder, to drive an elder to and from their medical appointment, and to provide respite care to family members caring for a loved one who needs constant care. All that is required is a warm, loving heart and one or two hours of your time each week. A two hour training event will provide you with information and basic skills to make a difference in someone’s life. The next training dates sponsored by Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers of Greater New Haven are: Tues. Feb. 16th 10:00-12:00 North Haven Recreation Center, 7 Linsley St. North Haven, Room 3; Sun. Feb 28th 1:30- 3:30 IVCG office, 30 Gillies Rd Hamden; Wed. March 17th 1:00-3:00 Canoe Brook Senior Center, 311 Cherry Hill Rd. Branford, Sliney Room. Please call IVCG at 203-230-8994 or email carenh@snet.net for more information and to register. _________________________________________________________________________________ Search is on for Connecticut senior poet laureate Entries are now being accepted for regional winners in the 18th annual National Senior Poets Laureate Poetry Competition for American poets age 50 and older in which the Connecticut Senior Poet Laureate is sought. Deadline is June 30. Winning poems of state senior poets laureate will be named in July, following which they advance to final rounds of competition from which the winner of $500 and the 2010 National Senior Poet Laureate title will be announced around Sept. 1. Gloria D. Pond of Woodbury won the 2009 Connecticut Senior Poet Laureate Award with her poem "Spinnaker." Winner of the 2009 National Senior Poet Laureate Award was Patricia Frolander, 66, rancher from Sundance, Wyo. Co-sponsors Vera-Jane Goodin Schultz and Wanda Sue Parrott founded the contest administered by Amy Kitchener’s Angels Without Wings Fdn. in 1993. The 2009 winners can be seen in Golden Words Anthology, along with rules for the 2010 Senior Poets Laureate Contest, at www.amykitchenerfdn.org _________________________________________________________________________________ "Trashing Our Wildlife" Donna L. Powers, a wildlife rehabilitation specialist will speak about "Trashing Our Wildlife" and the effects of litter on water birds and their environment at the next Wallingford Garden Club meeting on Tue. February 9 , at 1pm in the First Congregational Church meeting room. Powers has been a wildlife rehabilitation specialist for 24 years and is the President and founder of Water n' Webs. She has honed her skills as an animal rehabilitator by being employed by veterinarians, consulting with avian experts and attending annual wildlife rehabilitation conferences all over the United States. Powers has written a wildlife column for 9 years in the Northford Totoket Times and a waterfowl health column for the International Breeders Society and the Poultry Press. She is the owner of the Wild Bird Trail store at 600 N. Colony Street in Wallingford. The meeting is open to the public for a fee of $5 and will be preceded by a luncheon at 11:30am. 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! __________________________________________________________________________________ Purim Preschool Story Time at Temple Beth David On Sunday, February 28, from 11:00 a.m. until noon, Temple Beth David of Cheshire will host a Purim themed story time at the Doolittle School, 735 Cornwall Avenue, Cheshire. This interactive, high-energy program will explore the traditions and tastes of the Purim celebration. We will enjoy holiday stories, songs with Cantor Elana, crafts and snack-time. Story time activities are appropriate for children up to age 5 accompanied by a parent or other caregiver. Dress your child casually or bring along a smock (we may get messy!). The program is free and all preschoolers are invited to participate—you do not need to be a Temple member. Please email education@tbdcheshire.org to enroll, or call Jeri Butlien (860) 620-0307 with any questions. ________________________________________________________________________________ The Wallingford Family YMCA will be hosting Friday night indoor cycling rides for charity. The 2-hour rides will raise money for the YMCA Strong Kids, which provides YMCA programs for Wallingford Families in need, and The Spenceless Spinners Team, which has raised thousands of dollars for diabetes to date. Rides will take place on February 5th, 12th, and 26th, from 6-8 pm; February 19th will be a special "Push the Limits Triathlon" from 6-8 pm, which will include indoor cycling, running, and swimming. These events are open to the public; some cycling experience is recommended. A $20 donation is suggested. Call 203-269-4497 to reserve a spot. The Wallingford Family YMCA is located at 81 S. Elm St., Wallingford, CT.""The Wallingford Family YMCA and Frontline Krav Maga CT have partnered together to offer a Women's Self Defense Seminar on Friday, February 5th, from 6-9 pm. This class is free for members, and open to the public for a small fee. Call 203-269-4497 to reserve a spot. The Wallingford Family YMCA is located at 81 S. Elm St., Wallingford, CT.""The Wallingford Family YMCA is offering a free nutrition seminar on Tuesday, February 9th, from 12-1 pm. Healthy Balance: The First Steps to Healthy Eating gives a great starting point to get your health back on track with information on how to incorporate healthy eating habits into your lifestyle. This seminar is open to the public. Call 203-269-4497 to reserve a spot. The Wallingford Family YMCA is located at 81 S. Elm St., Wallingford, CT." _______________________________________________________________________ The Wallingford Family YMCA's Camp Ulbrich will be holding Early Bird Registration from February 15-28. Summer Camp is coming quick and if you register during this time you can save 5% off your camp balance. For more information, call (203)269-4497, go to www.wallingfordymca.org, or stop by the 81 S. Elm Street and pick up the 2010 Camp Ulbrich brochure today. ____________________________________________________________________- Meriden –Girls Inc. is excited to announce that registration for the 2010 Strong, Smart, and Bold Girls Summer Camp will begin on Saturday, February 6th, at 9am. In-person Express Registration will be offered at the 130 Lincoln St. facility from 9am-11am. On-line registration will also be available for current Girls Inc. members beginning that same day. The 9-week summer camp offers a variety of activities for girls entering kindergarten thru age 15. Swimming, arts and crafts, and much more! The camp runs from 9am-3pm Monday- Friday and also offers before and after camp care for an additional fee. Financial Assistance is available to those that qualify. For more information please visit Girls Inc. at 130 Lincoln St., call (203) 235-7146, or visit us online at www.girlsincmeriden.org Class of 1985 - Orville Platt High School 25th Reunion We will be having our Reunion July 24th, 2010 RSVP by May 31, 2010Anyone interested in attending can contact Ida Zimmer (860) 621-0267 or email idazimmer@yahoo.com. You can register on classmates.com or join us on facebook.com for more information. February Vacation Fun Club at the Meriden YMCA The Meriden YMCA is offering School Vacation Fun Club during February break where your children will have a blast all day! Your children will enjoy a fun-filled vacation February 15th through 19th from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Activities include swimming, crafts, games and sports in the gym, and movies! Registrations are being accepted now.The cost is $25 per day per child for YMCA members and $40 per day per child for non members. Call 203-235-6386 to register your child today. 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! Meriden YMCA's Kids Illustration Contest Calling all artists! The Meriden YMCA is having a really cool contest! Your drawing could be in our new Destination YMCA children’s book by author Eddie “Spaghetti” Siebert! Draw your best picture and bring it to the YMCA by February 20th to enter. (Please use 8.5 X 11 white paper, magic markers, colored pencils, or crayons) Winners will be invited to a special booksigning on April 10th Healthy Kids Day to autograph your artwork and enjoy a special artists reception! Picture ideas: 1. Picture of the YMCA for the cover – whose drawing will be on the cover??? 2. A family driving to the Y–packed and excited to go! 3. Mountain Mist Day Camp fun activities 4. Archery 5. Humongous pools – indoor pool down town, outdoor one at camp! 6. Zip line/climbing tower/ropes course 7. Kids playing sports (basketball, soccer, T-ball, gymnastics) 8. Swimming lessons 9. Lifeguards 10. Runners going around a track 11. Weight lifting 12. Karate 13. Youth theater – actors, singers, dancers 14. Family Festival or Halloween Happenings (painting pumpkins, hay ride) Check out our photo gallery on our web site for ideas! Be creative! Have a blast! Questions? Call us at 203-235-6386. Heart Health Awareness Lunch at Meriden YMCA Join us on Friday February 12th at 12:00 for a special Heart Health Awareness Lunch celebrating Heart Health month. Our special guest speaker will be Debbie Kovac R.N., Program Co-coordinator for the MidState Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness Department. The cost is $5.00 and includes lunch. We’ll also have some fun door prizes. RSVP to Carrie by February 8th by calling 203-235-6386 x18 or via email at cmarquardt@meridenymca.org For more information about our Cardiac Rehab and cardiac health programs at the Meriden YMCA call Carrie or visit our web site at www.meridenymca.org ______________________________________________________________________________________ SEA RESEARCH FOUNDATION, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY AND GARDE ARTS CENTER PARTNER TO CREATE NEW “FACES OF OUR PLANET” SERIES New series begins on February 2; brings art and science together through performance, film and presentations by artists and renowned explorers MYSTIC, Conn. (January 13, 2010) – Beginning on February 2, 2010, audiences at the historic Garde Arts Center in New London will be transported around the world, to the ends of the Earth and into the ocean’s depths to discover the “Faces of Our Planet.” Created by the Mystic-based Sea Research Foundation, National Geographic Society and the Garde, this new five-part series reveals the mysteries and discoveries of the world’s human, animal and geographic faces through film, live performance and multimedia presentations. The series builds on Sea Research’s long-standing relationship with National Geographic. Terry Garcia, senior vice president of mission programs for National Geographic Society, has been a long-time member of Sea Research’s Board of Trustees and was recently re-elected to a three-year term. In addition, National Geographic has supported Mystic Aquarium’s “Challenge of the Deep” exhibits and co-sponsored Institute for Exploration President and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Robert Ballard’s expeditions, many of which have been featured in National Geographic television specials. “This series provides the opportunity to strengthen our relationship with National Geographic Society through a co-branding partnership with its National Geographic Live! speakers program,” said Sea Research President and CEO Dr. Stephen M. Coan. “The series also aligns directly with Sea Research’s mission to inspire people to care for and protect our oceans. In providing audiences with inspiring views of the world, we hope these events will foster a deeper appreciation of our planet.” “We are excited about extending National Geographic’s relationship with Sea Research Foundation into the realm of events and embracing performing arts events that complement and deepen our shared mission,” said Andy van Duym, director of National Geographic Live! “Together with the Garde Arts Center, we look forward to presenting National Geographic’s top explorers to audiences in Connecticut. Patrons can anticipate dynamic events that feature fascinating people with truly captivating stories.” The “Faces of Our Planet” series was finally realized with the selection of the non-profit Garde Arts Center as both the venue and the regional performing arts partner. The nationally-recognized Garde Arts Center, with its restored 1,450-seat Moroccan-themed movie palace, has decades of success as the regional presenter and host of diverse artistic, cultural and educational programming in southeastern Connecticut. “We are proud to embark on this exhilarating new theatrical journey, integrating arts, technology, adventure and discovery,” said Garde Executive Director Steve Sigel. “By combining each of our institutions' audiences with our unique means of engaging, informing, inspiring and entertaining them, we believe we can even more deeply impact our understanding and appreciation of our common connection with and responsibility for the many facets of the planet we share.” The “Faces of Our Planet” series consists of the following events, all at the Garde Arts Center: Soweto Gospel Choir – February 2, 7:30 p.m.The series kicks off with a powerful performance by the acclaimed South African Soweto Gospel Choir, a 26-strong group of the best talents from Soweto-area churches. Their first album, “Voices of Heaven” hit No. 1 on the Billboard World Music Chart, and they have won three Grammy Awards, including “Best Movie Song” for “Down to Earth”, heard in Disney/Pixar’s Wall-E movie. Tickets: $35 (orchestra), $42 (loge), $30 (front balcony), $25 (rear balcony). Penguin Party – February 20, 3 p.m. Bring the family to party with African penguins from Mystic Aquarium, participate in penguin-related games and activities and enjoy Dreamworks’ animated feature film Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa on the Garde’s giant movie screen. The winner of the 2009 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for “Favorite Animated Film”, the movie tells the story of Central Park Zoo animals that end up in Madagascar, where adventures abound. Tickets: adults $12, children $6. A Wild Point of View – March 19, 7:30 p.m. Experience life through an animal’s eyes with biologist, inventor and National Geographic filmmaker Greg Marshall. His remarkable Crittercam has revolutionized marine biology while producing breathtaking glimpses into the animal world. Marshall and his team have refined the device, making it smaller, lighter and more powerful, expanding its use to more than 30 marine species, from sperm whales to Emperor penguins. Tickets: $24; VIP tickets: $54 (includes admission to pre-show reception). Polar Obsession – April 16, 7:30 p.m. Arctic biologist and photographer Paul Nicklen shares his self-deprecating humor, terrifying and awe-inspiring stories and magnificent screen images that bring audiences face-to-face with the predators that live at the ends of the Earth. Nicklen will also discuss what is truly at stake in the ongoing debates over global warming. After the program, Nicklen will sign copies of his new book, Polar Obsession, which features 160 of his latest and best polar images and critical new insights into animal behavior and climate change. Tickets: $24; VIP tickets: $54 (includes admission to pre-show reception). Adventures in Deep-Sea Exploration – May 14, 7:30 p.m. Best known for his 1985 discovery of the R.M.S. Titanic, National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence and Institute for Exploration President Dr. Robert Ballard is a veteran of more than 125 deep-sea expeditions. In this visually-gripping presentation, Dr. Ballard shares his stories of discoveries, his passion for the last great uncharted territory and his vision of how technology can continue to advance the frontiers of exploration. Dr. Ballard will sign copies of his book after the program. Tickets: $24; VIP tickets: $54 (includes admission to pre-show reception). The Premier “Faces of Our Planet” Series ticket is $190 and includes preferred seating at all five events, admission to pre-show VIP receptions for Greg Marshall, Paul Nicklen and Dr. Robert Ballard and special acknowledgement in the playbill for each event. The “Faces of Our Planet” discount package provides up to a 28 percent discount off each ticket price with the purchase of three or more events. Both are available at the Garde Arts Center Box Office at 325 State St., New London, in person or by phone at (860) 444-7373 ext. 1. Single tickets are available at the Garde Arts Center Box Office and online at www.gardearts.org. Special pricing is available for students, groups and Mystic Aquarium members. For more information on these programs, visit www.searesearch.org. About Sea Research Foundation, Inc.Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Learning are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a private, non-profit 501(c)3organization. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration. About Garde Arts Center Founded in 1985, the Garde Arts Center was created to save and transform the historic Garde theatre into a non-profit regional center for the performing arts and education in the heart of downtown New London, serving greater Southeastern Connecticut, a region rich in geographic, economic, ethnic and cultural diversity. The Garde owns and operates the recently restored 1,450-seat Garde Theatre, a historic movie/vaudeville house built in 1926 and the new 130-seat Oasis Room. About National Geographic Live! National Geographic Live is the live events division of the National Geographic Society, featuring live concerts, films, and dynamic presentations by today's leading explorers, scientists, filmmakers, and photographers covering a wide range of topics including: exploration and adventure; wildlife and habitat conservation; natural phenomena; and relevant issues such as climate change. Proceeds from speaker series ticket sales help fund future National Geographic initiatives in field research, exploration, and education. For more information visit www.nglive.org. MYSTIC AQUARIUM TO HOST BITE WEEK FEBRUARY 14 TO 19 February vacation week activities focus on animals with teeth big and small; guests can also see Jetty the sea lion pup in Marine Theater shows MYSTIC, Conn. Think you know who has the biggest set of chompers at Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration? Guests during February school vacation week may be surprised. In celebration of National Children’s Dental Health Month, the aquarium is hosting Bite Week from February 14 to 19. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, kids will learn about the teeth of various marine animals and discover how they chew their food, the different ways they use their teeth and which don’t have teeth at all. Interactive activities include animal teeth displays, decorating foam fish frames and a game in which kids will learn how fish catch prey with their mouths by using household objects, such as tweezers, pipettes and pliers, to grab items. Kids will also meet reptiles up close and learn about their teeth and diets. In the Marine Theater, guests can see the newest addition to the sea lion show, Jetty, the California sea lion pup who arrived last May and was named during a public naming contest in August. He recently joined the three sea lions in the Marine Theater, where he is slowly learning behaviors. While he doesn’t have an active role in the show yet, Jetty will slowly participate more as his training progresses. In the meantime, guests can enjoy his short attention span and playful antics while learning about sea lions, including their teeth. WHEN: Sunday, February 14 to Friday, February 19 Activities take place at scheduled times between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day WHERE: Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355 COST: Free with aquarium admission: Adults $26, seniors $23, kids (ages 3 to 17) $19, free for children 2 and under For more information, call (860) 572-5955 or visit mysticaquarium.org. About Sea Research Foundation, Inc.Mystic Aquarium, Institute for Exploration and Immersion Learning are divisions of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)3organization. The mission of Sea Research is to inspire people to care for and protect our ocean planet through education, research and exploration. _______________________________________________________________________________________ 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! To all, This is the first reminder for the 2010 Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony for the City of Meriden. I want you to put it on your calendar now and save the date to pay honor to our deceased Veterans. Who: The United Veterans Council of Meriden, CT and the 2010 Memorial Day Parade Committee What: 2010 Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony............ Parade theme this year is "The Forgotten War?", a tribute to the Korean War and its' Veterans Where: Parade will form up at Washington Park on Liberty Street and the adjoining area side streets between 9:00 and 9:59 a.m. Parade route is West on Liberty St. turning left onto Cottage St., continuing to East Main St.turning right and continuing westward down to the Meriden City Hall area. A Memorial Day Service (45 minutes) of ceremony, patriotic music, speeches and prayer will commence at 11:00 or immediately following the parade. When: MONDAY, May 31, 2010, Parades steps of at 10:00 a.m. sharp. and Why: to pay honor to our deceased Veterans. Originally Memorial Day was designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form or ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit. Please alert all of the good citizens of Meriden and South Meriden, all of the Civic groups, the Churches and all of the Schools, Public and Parochial, Girl Scouts of America and the Boy Scouts of America of this important free event. Our committee will be attempting to contact as many of these personnel as possible over the coming 5 months. Please feel free to spread this invite to all that you come into contact. PS: Volunteers are needed on the committee and can contact me on my cell 203 631 3906 or can email me your contact information. __________________________________________________________________________ Seven Pound Steamed Cheeseburger Eating Contest in Wallingford Sara J's is bravely going where no Steamed Cheeseburger has gone before. Last week Sara J’s, a diner in Wallingford, announced that they will be unleashing a monster Steamed Cheeseburger Challenge on Friday, February 5, 2010 at 5:30pm. To celebrate their new extended hours, Sara J’s will be choosing two lucky individuals at random to eat their way to Steamed Cheeseburger fame. The Super Steamed Cheeseburger includes 7 pounds of steamed ground beef, 2 pounds of gooey steamed cheddar and 1 pound of crispy bacon, and then topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. "This is going to be HUGE! Literally!" said Sara Kenny, daughter of the owner and employee, "I can’t wait to see everyone's reaction when we put this burger out on the counter." Each lucky contestant will have 45 minutes to finish half of the 7 pound burger and additional toppings. The winner will receive bragging rights, $10 gift certificate to Sara J’s, a picture on the Sara J’s Wall of Fame, and a Sara J’s “I ate my half” t-shirt. Jennifer Fontanella, a Sara J’s frequenter said, "It's an awesome idea and whoever has the guts to take on this challenge, better have the stomach to back it up." Sara J’s is currently accepting sign-ups until 2:00pm on Thursday, January 28, 2010. They ask that all contestants are 18 or older, and must sign a waiver agreeing to have their picture and/or video taken by Sara J’s who may use it however they choose, that Sara J's is not responsible if they get sick and that they are not allergic to any of the ingredients. Winners will be announced on Friday, January 29, 2010 on Facebook, and will be contacted through phone or email. You do not have to be present to be picked. Sara J’s welcomes everyone to join them the evening of the challenge but reminds people to bring their strong stomachs. Sara J’s has been owned and operated by the Kenny-Chasse family for several years. "I’m very excited about this,” says Karen Chasse, owner, “It’s a great way to bring in new people and get our name out there." Sara J’s is located at 7 Ward Street in Wallingford. New hours of operation go into effect Friday, January 29, 2010: Mondays: 7:00am-10:30am; Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 7:00am-2:00pm; Thursdays and Fridays: 7am-2pm, 5:00pm-10:00; Saturdays: 7:00am-1:00pm; Sundays: Closed. 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! IMMERSION LEARNING™ BRINGS MARINE MAMMALS OF THE ARCTIC LIVE TO MYSTIC AQUARIUM & INSTITUTE FOR EXPLORATION Live Webcasts on February 10 to 12 to reveal how scientists, native communities and animal trainers are working to understand and protect Arctic animals MYSTIC, Conn. (January 19, 2010) – This February, venture to the ends of the earth to meet the fascinating animals that live there and the people who work with them. Immersion Learning™, a division of Sea Research Foundation, Inc., brings the vast and exciting Arctic world live via webcast to Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration and many other Immersion sites across the country on February 10 to 12. During the week of live Marine Mammals of the Arctic webcasts, viewers will have the opportunity to interact directly with scientists and trainers who work with marine mammals to better understand their behaviors and physiology, as well as the impact of humans and climate change on these animals. Kids watching the programs will also be able to participate in an online question-and-answer session and polling features as they hear from these experts and learn how they can help protect the oceans. Viewers will get a firsthand look at polar bear research, seal rescue and rehabilitation efforts at the aquarium, satellite tagging and population surveys of ringed seals and beluga research that involves a unique collaboration between the people of Point Lay, Alaska, and researchers, including one based at Mystic Aquarium. Kids will also meet the three winners of Immersion’s first-ever Goldfish Training Contest, who will each serve as an “apprentice trainer” during one day of Webcasts and work closely with the aquarium’s beluga whales and professional trainers. “Sea Research Foundation is devoted to protecting our ocean planet, and the Arctic is currently one of the most threatened places,” said Dr. Stephen M. Coan, president and CEO of Sea Research Foundation. “In providing kids an up-close look at these amazing animals and the dangers they are facing, we hope to inspire them to become ambassadors for the Arctic regions and beyond.” The 30-minute live webcasts will take place in the Immersion Theater in the Challenge of the Deep exhibition at the following times: Wednesday, February 10 and Friday, February 12: 10 and 11 a.m. and 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Thursday, February 11: 1, 2 and 3 p.m. (5 and 7 p.m. webcasts will be available online only) The live webcast complements Immersion’s Marine Mammals of the Arctic multimedia program, developed for kids in grades 4 through 8 and designed to inspire them to be part of the world of marine science and conservation by helping to protect marine mammals and their ocean home. Program elements include hands-on activities and lesson plans for use in schools and after-school settings and online games, projects, videos and photos. The live webcasts, a detailed webcast program guide and program resources will be available at immersionlearning.org. _______________________________________________________________________ The Horvath Trio The Hungarian Community Club is pleased to announce that the Horvath Trio will be back in Wallingford on Saturday February 13th, 7 pm!!! Come for some wonderful eats (soups, home made sausages, potato, dessert) and awesome music!!! Sing along with the band or dance to their beat....be entertained as the violinist stops at your table and plays for you. Don't miss this exciting evening!! Cost is $30 for members, $35 for non-members. The club is located at 147 Ward St, Wallingford, CT. Reservations are REQUESTED!!! For more info, call Lajos at 203-530-3557 or Lenke at 203-634-0602. You can always email us at HCCofWallingford@gmail.com.. And check out our web site at www.hccwallingford.org. 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!