Meriden Superintendent of Schools Corner
Dear Friends,
I hope the tough winter weather has finally come to an end. March not only meant some excellent college basketball games, it also had CMT/CAPT testing and budget deliberations. Our students and staff recently completed this important standardized testing measure. While these tests are very important, they are only one measure of what our children are learning in our schools.
Recently, the Board of Education approved the 2011-2012 education budget with a 2.78% increase. This request includes the reduction of 26 staff positions--19 certified positions and 7 classified positions. We will continue to monitor all budget lines for savings, and we are committed to exploring all cost savings measures. Provisions to carry over any surplus dollars will be requested to reduce the 2011-2012 budget request.
We must work together to assure that our education system continues to meet the needs of all our students.
On April 13th, there will be a Public Hearing on the City's 2011-2012 budget. This is an opportunity for all citizens to speak out on the budget.
Thank you for all your support! Together we can assure that our education system continues to prepare our students for successful futures.
All the best!
Mark D. Benigni
2011 WALLINGFORD RECYCLING ART CONTEST
The Wallingford Recycling Committee invites you to be creative and enter our 2nd annual recycling art contest!
Contest is open to Wallingford students, K-8.
Entries may be either art sculptures or useful items made from items which have had a previous life.
Projects should be dropped off in room 315 of Town Hall between 9:00 and 5:00 on April 19th or 20th, and picked up April 25th or 26th. (Winning entries will be kept until Celebrate Wallingford.)
All entries must be constructed of materials that have been used before and would have been recycled or thrown away if not for having the unique opportunity of being part of this contest.
All entries must be able to be easily carried by one person.
Entries will be judged by the Wallingford Recycling Committee on creativity, artistry and ability to provoke awareness of recycling and the environment.
Only one entry per student or group.
Please do not use dirty stuff, broken glass or other sharp objects, hazardous waste materials, things which will decompose and be smelly or icky, or items which may break easily.
The most important item you will use is your imagination!
Prizes will be awarded and winning pieces will be on display at Celebrate Wallingford!
For the submission form visit the Town of Wallingford’s website at www.town.wallingford.ct.us Questions? Call the Program Planning office at 203 294-2060.
Wallingford Neighborhood Assistance Act Applications due May 13th!
The Town of Wallingford will be implementing the provisions of C.G.S. 12-631, the Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA), in order to prepare and submit to the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services a “program list” as defined by Departmental regulations.
Interested organizations are directed to the DRS web site at http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1447&q=266058 to view the application and program information. Completed applications are due to the Town’s Grants Office (Room 311) no later than May 13, 2011.
The required Public Hearing is expected to be scheduled for the Town Council meeting of June 14, 2011.
Wallingford Spring Clean Up by Public Works - Begins April 18
The Department of Public Works will begin the Spring Clean Up on Monday, April 18, 2011, for public streets in all sections of Wallingford. Residents are asked to place materials by the curb no later than Sunday, April 17.
Only brush, wood and leaves will be collected. These materials must meet the following guidelines:
Branches and twigs only. No branch more than four feet long or six inches in diameter will be accepted. Brush must be tied separately in small bundles.
Dimensional lumber, such as two-by-four-inch lumber or plywood, may not exceed four feet in length or width. Wood must be tied separately in small bundles. Absolutely no wood containing creosote will be picked up.
Leaves must be in paper yard waste bags. No brush, twigs, debris or plastic bags will be accepted. Masking tape only is acceptable to seal bags.
Items placed at the curb must be light enough for one man to put in a truck.
This is a one-time collection. The Department of Public Works will not return to a street that has already been visited for the collection. Those residents who miss the pick up may take their leaves and brush to the Compost Area at the Recycling Center on John Street.
For more Information contact the Department of Public Works: 203-294-2105.
Celebrate Earth Day - Special Film Series
The Wallingford Recycling Committee, in cooperation with the Public Library, presents…
Celebrate Earth Day films to be shown at the Wallingford Public Library in April. The films will be shown in the Community Room from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Discussion will follow each film. The schedule is:
April 13 – Energy Crossroads: Most experts agree that global peak oil production, when demand exceeds supply, will occur within the next 15 years and will drastically change the very fabric of our industrialized world. This award-winning documentary exposes the problems associated with our energy consumption. It also offers concrete solutions for those who want to educate themselves and be part of the solutions in this decisive era. Click here to view the flyer for this film.
April 25 – The 11th Hour: The film explores how we’ve arrived at this moment – how we live, how we impact the earth’s ecosystems, and what we can do to change our course.
Senior Permits for Delivery of Household Trash to Wallingford Disposal Site
Department of Public Works - 203 294-2105
Senior Citizen Permits Expire April 10, 2011
Any Wallingford senior citizen (sixty-five years of age and older) or resident having a Medicare card who plans to deliver his or her household trash to the Wallingford Disposal Site (landfill) must obtain a new permit in order to use senior coupons.
The new permits may be secured Monday, April 4, through Friday, April 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Wallingford Senior Center, 238 Washington Street.
The permit cost is $5.00. Applicants must bring their driver's license, proof or residence, and the current registration for the vehicle that will be used to deliver trash to the disposal site. Permits will be issued only on these dates and times. There are no exceptions.
“Check Your Numbers” Wellness Screening
The Meriden Health Department offers a complete wellness screening for adults that includes:
• A seasonal flu shot • Blood glucose (sugar) • Blood pressure • Total cholesterol
• Height and weight • Hearing screening
All for only $10.00 per person! Cash only please. **Medicare accepted.
Screenings are held at 165 Miller Street. Call 203-630-4234 to make your appointment.
Wallingford Senior Center to Offer Extended Hours
Beginning on Thursday, April 7, 2011 the Wallingford Senior Center will be offering extended hours of operation, with a variety of evening programs, special events and classes to be held. The Senior Center will be open until 8:30 p.m. on April 7 & 14, and every Thursday in May through October. Our Lake View Café will be offering dinner, with menus changing weekly, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Tickets may be purchased during our hours of operation for $6.00 at the Front Desk, and include an entrée and small beverage. A variety of dessert items are also available for an additional fee. For more information, please contact Patty Watts, Program Coordinator at 203-265-7753.
Belly Dance This class is rooted in classic belly dance technique and meets weekly in the Fitness Room at 5:15 p.m. No experience needed to participate in this fun and low-impact class. Start Date: April 7, Instructor: Aleenah, Cost: $25. Please sign up.
Scrapbooking Class Learn to create beautiful keepsake albums that will be treasured for generations from your personal photos and memories. Come to a free introductory session to hear more about it on April 14 in the Creative Arts Room at 5:30 p.m. Start Date: May 5, Instructor: Diane Soares, Cost: $25 plus materials. Please sign up.
Zumba Gold Zumba infuses Latin rhythms and simple dance moves to create a fun and exciting total body workout designed for the active older adult. Meets weekly in the Fitness Room at 6:00 p.m. Start Date: May 5, Instructor: Kayt Keirn, Cost: $25. Please sign up.
Texas Hold ‘Em Poker A competitive yet friendly card game. Must be a WSC member to play, men and women are welcome. Weekly games held in the Game Room from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Instructor: Tom Burrill, Cost: $2.00 per player.
Twilight Concert with the Survivors Our own band, The Survivors, will be here to perform their wonderful selection of dance music during the dinner hour. Buy a delicious dinner at the Lake View Café (ticket purchase required) and enjoy the show! April 14, 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Great Room.
Backing Up Your Computer Kevin Ozer, from our Computer Learning Center, will be sharing valuable information about “backing up” the computer files on your home or small business P.C. in easy-to-understand, non-technical terms. This session is free, but pre-registration is required. Open to the public. Space is limited, sign up today. April 14, 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Room.
No Thursday Evening Programs Scheduled April 21 & 28 The Senior Center will be closing at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 21 & 28. Please join us on Thursday, May 5, when our evening programs resume.
Meriden Spring Clean Up Reminder
The Department of Public Works does not collect leaves in the Spring. Residents are required to deliver their leaves and brush to the Transfer Station, which is located on Evansville Avenue. The Transfer Station is open Mondays from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM, Wednesdays from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM and the first and third Saturday from 7:30 AM to Noon. There is no charge for the disposal of leaves and brush. For complete information on the Transfer Station, please visit the City’s website at www.cityofmeriden.org. Select municipal services followed by Public Works and Transfer Station.
Mayor’s Corner - Wallingford
Dear Friends:
Time to Spring forward and leave Winter behind! A great way to exercise your mind, body and spirit is to pick up a copy of the Wallingford Recreation Department’s Spring Program Brochure or visit the David Doherty Center and register for one or more of the fine program activities.
Look for the Opening of the Disc Golf Course at Lufbery Park this spring. A great activity that brings you outdoors for some guaranteed fun. Kids can become active by signing up for a session of The Parisi Speed School. This program is an introduction in improving the young athlete’s self-esteem, coordination, speed and overall body strength, for boys and girls ages 8-11 and 12-14.
Are you looking to get away for the day? There are a variety of one-day excursions to choose from – for instance, the Newport Dinner Train, Newport, Rhode Island, selected by the Food Network as one of the top three dinner trains in America!
Don’t forget to join some of our Senior Men for Ping Pong. The new program is open to all skill levels. Finally, so you want to be a Rock Star? Join us as we explore the basics of forming your own band. The class is open to all musicians.
The Recreation Department includes fun for all so if you or a family member requires a program modification and a supportive environment to get the most out of your leisure experience, please call and ask for Emily Swinelles for assistance. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy the Spring and register for some of the activities that we have available to you.
Sincerely, William W. Dickinson, Jr. - Mayor
Editor’s Note: Read the full Wallingford Park and Recreation Department’s Spring Brochure at http://www.peoplespressnews.com/
MAX E. MURAVNICK MERIDEN SENIOR CITIZENS’ CENTER
The Max E. Muravnick Meriden Senior Citizens’ Center is open to all Meriden residents age 55 and over. Membership is free of charge and new members may sign-up any weekday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by presenting a driver’s license or other proof of age. New members receive an information package about senior services and a coupon entitling them to one complimentary lunch in our Senior Community Café. Sign-up today and find out about all that is offered for Meriden seniors at the Max E. Muravnick Senior Center!
Our Senior Center Volunteer Recognition Day will be held on Wednesday, April 20 at 11:15 AM in Willene’s Place. We will recognize all of our volunteers and also announce the 2011 “Volunteers of the Year”. Please join us for this special event and thank you to all of our volunteers for your work all year long!
Creative Writing Classes with Susan Sandel will resume on Wednesday, April 13 at 1:00 PM. The six week class will help you learn to express yourself more easily and improve your writing skills. No prior experience is necessary and newcomers are welcome. Please sign-up for this free class in the front office or by calling us at 203.237.0066.
On Wednesday, April 13 at 10:30 AM Mike Savinelli from BCI Financial will speak on Reverse Mortgages. Learn how you can use the equity in your home to cover other expenses like home improvements, a new car, medical bills, traveling or other personal expenses. This no cost or obligation program will be held in the first floor meeting room and refreshments will be served.
On Thursday, April 21 we will have our 3rd annual “Grandchildren Day” during school vacation week. A special $2 hot dog lunch will be available for the kids followed by a free bingo open to everyone with $5 gift cards to McDonald’s as prizes. Please invite your grandchildren/great grandchildren and sign-up in Willene’s Place to join us for this special intergenerational event on April 21!
Save the date for the first annual “Seniors First Day” at Maloney High School on Tuesday, May 3 from 12:30-2:30. You are invited to a performance by the Allegrettos, a weight conditioning and country line dance demonstration, computer greeting card class, blood pressure screening, refreshments and more, all to unite the generations and bring seniors and high school students together! The Mini-Bus will depart at 12:15 and take you home after the program, people are also welcome to drive on your own, please sign-up for the bus with Becky in the Mini-Bus Office or call her at 203.237.3338.
On Wednesday, April 27 at 11:15 in Willene’s Place, Blanca Toledo Perez from AASCC will speak about the Home Share Program for homeowners who would like to share their home. Finally, there are still openings for the AARP Driver Safety Class on April 27, tickets for the May 2 Kiwanis Hi-Liters Show at 7:00 PM will be available on April 4 and the last day for AARP Income Tax Assistance is April 6.
John F. Hogarth - Senior Center Director
WALLINGFORD SENIOR CENTER
40th Anniversary Dinner Dance - Featuring Michael Dutra & the Strictly Sinatra Band on Saturday, May 21, 2011, 5:00 – 9:00 PM We are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Wallingford Senior Center in grand style with a delicious dinner and a fabulous Sinatra tribute band. The Chicken Marsala dinner will include salad, ziti, dessert and more. The Strictly Sinatra Band, starring Michael Dutra, performs more than 300 nights per year stunning audiences with its dead-on rendition of Frank Sinatra classics. Tickets to this gala evening are on sale to members only during the month of April. If space allows, tickets will be on sale to the general public beginning May 1. Tickets are $30.00 for members and $40.00 for non-members.
Intergenerational Day at Q. U. - Tuesday, April 12, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM You have been invited to participate in Intergenerational Day at Quinnipiac University. The day includes a welcome reception with refreshments, meeting students, attending a liberal arts class with a student, lunch, and a special program. Q.U. will provide transportation from the senior center and back. This wonderful opportunity to experience a day at college is limited to the first twenty members to register. (Sign-up begins April 1.)
Sleep & the Older Adult - Wednesday, April 13, 10:30 AM
Sleep Specialist Dr. Brett Volpe will discuss common sleep problems that affect adults as they age. Learn about these problems and possible solutions at this program sponsored by MidState Medical Center. Pre-registration is requested.
CarFit for Mature Drivers - Thursday, April 21, 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Is your car a good fit for you? Is it adjusted correctly to keep you safe? Do you want to find out ways to make your car more comfortable for driving? Yes? Then join us at a CarFit event on April 21, in the Senior Center parking lot. CarFit was developed by the American Society on Aging in collaboration with AARP, AAA and the American Occupational Therapy Association. The CarFit program provides a quick but comprehensive check of how well you and your vehicle work together. A trained professional will ask you simple questions and complete a 12-point CarFit checklist which includes: height of the seat; fit of the seat belt; and position of all mirrors. Occupational therapy students and faculty from Quinnipiac University will conduct the CarFit event and recommend car adjustments, adaptations, and offer community resources that promote safe driving. Come find out how the fit of your vehicle affects your driving, and adjust your vehicle to fit your changing needs. Call now to schedule your appointment.
Thursday Evening Programs
Thursdays, 4:00-8:30 PM
April 7th marks the beginning of our extended hours at the Senior Center. Stay and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by Lake View Café and served 5:00-6:30 p.m. (meal ticket purchase required). We have a lot of exciting programs and classes scheduled, including a monthly Dinner Dance, Live Entertainment, Guest Speakers, New Release Movies, Evening Fitness classes, Scrapbooking, Newcomers’ Dinners, Texas Hold ‘em Poker, AARP Driver Safety classes, Computer Workshops, Book Club and so much more. Wallingford Senior Center is the place to be on Thursday Nights!
Backing Up Your Computer with Kevin Ozer - Thursday, April 14, 6:30 PM
Kevin Ozer, from our Computer Learning Center, will be sharing valuable information about “backing up” the files on your home or small business computer in easy-to-understand, non-technical terms. Pre-registration is required for this free seminar which is open to the public. Space is limited, sign up today.
2011 Golf League - Our Coed Golf League, held at Miner Hills Golf Course, will begin its 12th season in May. There will be one sixteen-week session, running from May 17 through August 30. The cost for play and the final week cookout is $235.00 for members and $240.00 for non-members. Member Sign-Up begins May 2 (May 9 for non-members). A meeting for all golfers will be held Tuesday, May 10, at 9:30 AM. If you have any questions, please call League Coordinator Howie at 203 265-0412.
Student Art Exhibit - April 28 – 30, 2011
The Wallingford Senior Center Great Room is the site of the Wallingford Public Schools’ Annual Art Exhibit, which showcases the artwork of students in our local elementary, middle and high schools.
MEMORY LANE - What is Memory Lane and where is it located? Memory Lane is an adult day program located within the Wallingford Senior Center, designed to promote and maintain independence for seniors with mild memory loss, cognitive, and/or physical impairments. This program offers a variety of pet-therapy, music, and baking activities as well as monthly day-trips, and physical activities. Hours of operation are 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Handicapped-accessible transportation is provided for residents of Wallingford at no extra charge. Eligibility is based on an assessment, interview, and medical clearance. If you are interested in an affordable, fun, and stimulating way to keep your loved one safe and independent during the day, stop by the reception desk for a brochure and tour of the center, or contact Melinda Welch, Program Coordinator, at 203.265.7753 for more information. *There are many benefits to adult day programs: caregiver respite, daily socialization with peers, integration into the community, and avoiding premature institutionalization. * Source: http://www.caring.com/articles/benefits-of-adult-day-care-programs.
SOCIAL SERVICES
IN ORDER TO SERVE YOU BETTER, PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE SOCIAL WORKER, EILEEN FLYNN, AT 265 7753. Walk-In Schedule: The Social Worker will take walk-ins on a first come basis for one-half hour sessions ONLY (30 minutes). Sessions are on the half-hour from 9:00 AM to 12 Noon and 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. No regular appointments will be scheduled on Tuesdays.
Benefits Screening - Tuesday, April 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Do you often wonder if you might be eligible for any State or Federal Programs? Benefits QuickLINK is a free and confidential program which can quickly screen for eligibility. Supporting documents are not required, but please bring the following information with you to your appointment: 1. Monthly income (social security, pension, dividends and interest). 2. Monthly expenses (heating, fuel, gas, electricity, water, telephone, rent or mortgage payments and medical expenses not covered by health insurance). 3. Asset information (savings, estimated value of home and car, life insurance benefits). 4. A list of all current prescriptions. Registration required. Call 203-265-7753 now to schedule an appointment.
Questions about Financial Decisions? - Monday, April 11, 1:30 – 3:00 PM
Brendan Toomey, Certified Financial Planner of Toomey Investment Management, Inc. will be available to answer financial questions about investments, IRA’s and annuities. To schedule a fifteen (15) minute appointment, please call 203-265-7753.
Low Vision Support Group - Friday, April 15, 10:15 AM-12:00 PM
A representative from the Board of Education and Agency for the Blind will be our guest speaker. He will discuss compensatory ways of managing in the home with low vision. Please call (203) 265 7753 to sign up for this meeting.
Veterans Services - Tuesday, April 26, 1:00-3:00 PM
George Messier, Veterans Services Officer for the Town of Wallingford will be available to answer questions and assist with benefit information. An appointment is required. Please call 203-265-7753.
VISIT our website at www.wlfdseniorctr.com!
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