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Question of the Day (9/9/05)

With gasoline well over the $3 per gallon mark, do you think the p rice of gasoline will ever return to below $2 per gallon?

Posted by connpost on 10:41 AM | Comments (3)

UP & COMING EVENTS IN THE REGION

'How to Get a Job'

DERBY — A program titled "How to Get a Job in the USA" will be offered Wednesday Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Derby Public Library, 313 Elizabeth St.

Nara Venditti, founder and president of Succeed in America!, will present the program. She will explain the jobsearch process and provide information for those looking for employment. Participants will receive a workbook and informational booklet.

Registration is required; stop by the library or call 7361482.

Book Nook Sale

TRUMBULL The Friends of the Trumbull Library will conduct the monthly Book Nook Sale Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Community Room of the Trumbull Library, Quality Street.

Book donations in good condition (except textbooks or condensed books) are welcome during sale hours. New


'Script Talk!'

STRATFORD — "Closer," Patrick Marber's controversial drama about adult relationships
in the Internet age, will be the topic of discussion for the "Script Talk!" program Tuesday Sept. 13 beginning at noon in the Lovell Room of the Stratford Library Association, 2203 Main St.

The film version, starring Julia Roberts, Clive Owen, Natalie Portman and Jude Law, will be shown following the discussion.

The program is led by Tom Holehan, area theater director and library staff member.

Patrons are invited to bring a bag lunch; coffee and tea will be served. The program is free and open to the public. For further information, call 3854162.


Photography exhibit

STRATFORD — "Cityscapes'' is the art exhibit on view through Sept. 30 at the Stratford Library, 2203 Main St.

Bridgeport resident Ronald J. Trovato is making his first appearance at the library. He specializes is photography of major cityscapes. In conjunction with the observance of 911, he will highlight the architecture of New York City in the exhibit.

Trovato studied photography and journalism at Housatonic Community College.

The exhibit is on view in the main lobby during regular library hours (Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details, call 3854162.


Financial seminar

DERBY — A free financial seminar will be presented Tuesday Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Derby Public Library, 313 Elizabeth St.

Bob Clarke, a financial adviser, will discuss prioritizing goals, gathering information, developing solutions, taking action and monitoring progress. This is the first of a series of financial seminars scheduled for the second Tuesday of the month at the library. To register to attend, or for further information, stop by the library or call 7361482.


Marian Guild

The Marian Guild of Our Lady of Grace Church, 497 Second Hill Lane, Stratford, will begin its new year with a membership kickoff/ installation of officers dinner Wednesday Sept. 14 at 6 p.m. in the parish hall. A catered buffet dinner will be served. Cost is $15. For reservations, call JoAnn at 3787137.


Norwalk Camera Club

The Norwalk Camera Club will open its 200506 season Monday Sept. 12 at Earthplace Nature Center, 10 Woodside Lane, Westport. A buffet dinner at 6:30 p.m. will be followed by a slide presentation at 8 p.m. Bob Knoebel of Westport, the club's "Photographer of the Year," will show slides of wilderness areas throughout the U.S. he took while fly fishing.

The dinner and program are free of charge, but reservations are required for dinner. Call Phyllis at 8669966 or Betty at 2555636.

The club meets on the second and fourth Mondays of the month. For further information, call Lori at 2278064 or visit
www.norwalkcameraclub.org. Support for caregivers

Atria of Stratford is starting a new support group for family caregivers of individuals with memory loss and confusion, Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia who are living at home or in healthcare facilities. The meetings will take place the second Thursday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. at Atria, 6911 Main St., Stratford. A meeting is scheduled for Thursday Sept. 8.

The group is free and open to the public. To attend, or for further information, call Janet Girardat, support group leader, at 3800006.


Schizophrenia support

A free self-help support group for adults with schizophrenia or a related disorder meets every Sunday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at United Congregational Church, 877 Park Ave. (corner of State Street), Bridgeport.

For information on how to join the group, or for free literature on a variety of mental health concerns, call the Mental Health Association of Connecticut, 18008421501, ext. 10 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Photographic Society

The Huntington Photographic Society meets the first Monday of the month (if it's a holiday, meetings take place the second week) except in July) at 6:30 p.m. at the Huntington Branch Library located at the rear of the Shelton Community Center, Church Street. The group will meet Monday Sept. 12.

The club is seeking new members. All experience levels are welcome, and beginners are encouraged to attend. The monthly meetings consist of programs and informal competitions. Field trips are planned. For details, call 3751039.


Catholic Singles

Connecticut Catholic Singles will have a Farewell to Summer Dinner Dance Saturday Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Peppermill Restaurant, 1700 Post Road E., Westport. Cost is $28 and includes a hot buffet, dessert, coffee and soft drinks. All singles are welcome. For details and reservations, call 2612414.


Dual diagnosis support

A new dual diagnosis free self-help support group for adults meets on Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 200 Main St., Stratford.

For information on how to join the group, or for free literature on a variety of mental health concerns, call the Mental Health Association of Connecticut, 18008421501, ext. 10 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Trumbull Animal Group

The Trumbull Animal Group will conduct its monthly meeting Tuesday Sept. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at a member's home. For details or directions, call Gail at 3802540.


Yellow Ribbon Mothers

The Yellow Ribbon Mothers meets on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7 p.m. in the Eliot Room of the First Church Congregational, 148 Beach Road, Fairfield. The support group is for the mothers of all U.S. soldiers, regardless of branch of service, who are deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. All mothers are welcome, not just those from Fairfield County.

For further information, call 2598396, ext. 31 and leave a message.

Derby-Shelton parade The Derby-Shelton Memorial Day Parade Association will conduct its first meeting Monday Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at Shelton Police Station. Officers will be elected. For further information, call Marie Smith at 3861491.


Holy Family Rosary Guild

The Rosary Guild of Holy Family Church will recite the rosary Thursday Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. at the church, 700 Old Stratfield Road, Fairfield. Cake will be served following the prayer service. All are welcome. For further details, call Cindy at 3308015.


Compassionate Friends

Compassionate Friends, a nondenominational support group for bereaved parents, meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Catholic Center, Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport. The group will meet Tuesday Sept. 13. For further details, call Laura at 5792495.


Owen Fish Auxiliary

Lt. Owen Fish Memorial Unit 143, American Legion Auxiliary, will meet Monday Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the post, 1443 Stratfield Road, Fairfield. For further details, call 2597352.


Insurance Women

The Insurance Women's Association of Southern Connecticut will meet Tuesday Sept. 13 at the Norwalk Inn and Conference Center, East Avenue. Networking will be from 5:30 to 6 p.m., with dinner at 6. Cost is $25. Call Mary Dowd at 9254569.


St. Michael's Ladies Guild

The Ladies Guild of St. Michael's Church will meet Monday Sept. 12 at 1 p.m. in the lower hall of St. Michael's Church, 310 Pulaski St., Bridgeport. Plans for the upcoming cake sale and card party will be discussed.


Church Women United

Church Women United of Fairfield will meet Friday Sept. 9 at Southport Congregational Chruch, 524 Pequot Ave. Bible study at 10 a.m. will be followed by a business meeting. A brown bag lunch will follow at noon. Call Mary Brennan at 2595837.


Civil War Roundtable

The Housatonic Civil War Roundtable will meet Tuesday Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Huntington Branch Library in the Shelton Community Center, 41 Church St. James Hyslop will speak on "Presidents Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address." The meeting is open to the public. Call 7353664.

Fairfield Area Poets

The Fairfield Area Poets will meet Sunday Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. at Barnes and Noble, 1076 Post Road E., Westport. An open microphone session will take place. For details, call Rose Marie Barone early weekday mornings only at 2593850.


The Chosin Few

The New England Chapter of the Chosin Few will conduct a reunion Sept. 29Oct. 1, in Milford, Mass. The reunion will commemorate the 55th anniversary of the battle of the Chosin Reservoir that was fought in North Korea from Nov. 26 through Dec. 11, 1950. Chosin Reservoir veterans who wish to attend the reunion are asked to call Terry McGuire at (781)3263215 or John Gutermuth at (781) 7695656.


Fairfield Emblem Club

Fairfield Emblem Club No. 389 will meet Monday Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at Fairfield Elks Lodge No. 2220. For further information, call Helena at 3683310.

Bower Post No. 1466

Lt. Raymond J. Bower Post No. 1466 of the Catholic War Veterans will meet Monday Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at the post, 40 Alfred St., Bridgeport. Officers will be elected.

The nonprofit organization welcomes all Catholic veterans.


Catholic Women

The Bridgeport District Council of Catholic Women will meet Thursday Sept. 8 at the Catholic Center, 238 Jewett Ave., Bridgeport. A Mass will be celebrated at 7 p.m. in the chapel, and a business meeting will follow. The Father Glouster Grant recipient will be honored. For details, call Mary Brennan at 2595837.


Families Anonymous

Families Anonymous is a 12step, self-help group for adults concerned about drug, alcohol or related behavioral problems of a relative or friend. The group meets every Thursday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Conference Room of Trumbull High School, 72 Strobel Road. Meetings are free and open to all interested persons. The group is anonymous, nonprofessional and nonreligious. For further details, call Judy D. at 2619506 or Charlene at 8780669.

Widowed Persons The Widowed Persons Service of Greater Bridgeport offers oneonone support and guidance to men and women in Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Milford, Monroe, Shelton, Stratford, Trumbull and Westport who have been widowed from one month to a year and a half.

WPS is cosponsored by AARP Grief and Loss Programs and FSW.

A women's breakfast takes place on the first and third Saturdays of each month at 10:30 a.m. at Old Towne Restaurant in Trumbull. Call Noemi at 3743198. A men's breakfast takes place on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month at 9 a.m. at White's Diner in Bridgeport. Call Peter at 8828662. For further information about other services and activities, call 3741242.


Connecticut Game Club

The Connecticut Game Club meets on the second Saturday of each month at the Ramada Inn, Lordship Boulevard, Stratford. The group will meet Saturday Sept. 10. Events begin at 9 a.m. and continue through the day and evening. The club is for gamers interested in miniature and/or board games. Prospective members can attend their first meeting free of charge. Newcomers need not bring games; they will be available for use.

Visit www.ctgameclub.org for further details.


Royal Arch Masons

Milford Chapter No. 49, Royal Arch Masons, will have its monthly meeting Tuesday Sept. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge Hall, 59 Broad St., Milford. A special program will take place. A dinner will precede the meeting at 6:30 p.m.


Wepawaug Shrine Club

Wepawaug Shrine Club will have its monthly dinner meeting Wednesday Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at Chip's Restaurant in Orange. Spouses and guests are welcome. Reservations are needed; call Bob Sherrick at 8774977.


Lucia Chapter, OES

Lucia Chapter No. 25, Order of the Eastern Star, will meet Thursday Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge, 59 Broad St., Milford. A special program about Robert Morris will be presented. A covered dish supper will precede the meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Support for widowed

An ecumenical widows and widowers support group meets on Thursdays at Holy Infant Church, Racebrook Road, Orange. Socializing takes place from 7:30 to 8 p.m., and discussion groups gather from 8 to 8:45 p.m. Refreshments follow. A donation of $2 is asked to help with expenses. Call the church at 7992379.


Shoreliners dance club

Shoreliners Square Dance Club will have a dance Tuesday Sept. 14 from 8 to 10:30 p.m. at Greene Community Center, Church Street in Guilford. Jim Denigris will call and Sandi Everett will cue.

Admission is $5. For details, call 4539660.


Accordion Association

The Connecticut Accordion Association will meet Sunday Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. at the home of John Polo, 25 Plymouth Ave., Trumbull. The upcoming concert at United Congregational Church in Bridgeport will be discussed.

Those who plan to attend are asked to call 2616089.


Community Connections

Milford Community Connections will meet Tuesday Sept. 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Stonebridge Restaurant, 50 Daniels St., Milford. Milford Schools Supt. Gregory Firn will be the guest speaker. His presentation is titled "Milford Public Schools 'Best of Class.'"

The group provides a forum for Milford residents, both new and old, to meet and form connections.

For further information, call Terry Thompson at 8762527.


Civil War Round Table

The Civil War Round Table of South Central Connecticut will meet Monday Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Miller Library, 2901 Dixwell Ave., Hamden. William Bless will speak on "Preserving History in Historical Fiction ("The Vermont Brigade"). For further information, call 2484697.


Milford Jaycees

Milford Jaycees Inc. will meet Thursday Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m. on the lower level of the Fowler Building (next to the Milford Library), 45 New Haven Ave., Milford. The chapter will be taking donations for Sara's Cupboard in Branford; clothing and household goods will be collected. The upcoming trip to the United Nations and the Thanksgiving baskets program will be discussed.

The group meets the second Thursday of every month.

The Jaycees is a volunteer organization of young people ages 21 to 40. New members are welcome. For further information, call 8774407.


Depression support

A free self-help support group for adults with depression or bipolar disorder meets Mondays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 780 Grassy Hill Road, Orange. The group is open to family and friends every third Monday of the month. For information on how to join the group, or for free literature on a variety of mental health concerns, call the Mental Health Association of Connecticut, 18008421501, ext. 10 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Junior Woman's Club

The Junior Woman's Club of Milford will meet tonight Thursday Sept. 8 at 7:30 First United Church of Christ, West Main Street, across from the Parsons Building, Milford. Doors will open at 7 p.m.

The Junior Woman's Club of Milford is a nonprofit community service organization that has served Milford for more than 30 years. All women over 18 years of age are invited to attend. For further information, call Tami BannonJackson at 8761247.


Animal rescue group

STRATFORD The Stratford Animal Rescue Society (STARS) will conduct a tag sale Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 115 Maureen St. (in Lordship near Short Beach).

All proceeds will provide supplies and medical treatment for animals housed at the Stratford Animal Shelter.


Animal rescue group

STRATFORD — SARAH Inc., a Stratford-based rescue organization for handicapped animals, will conduct a tag sale Sunday Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 473 Woodlawn Ave. (off Main Street in the Paradise Green area). Proceeds will go toward the animals in its care.

For details, call 3770826.


Juvenile Diabetes

TRUMBULL — A fundraising tag sale will take place Friday and Saturday Sept. 9 and 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 88 Shelton Road. Rain date will be Sunday Sept. 11.

Proceeds will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The sale will offer household items, books, clothing, toys, small tables and more. Holy Trinity Lutheran

TRUMBULL — A tag sale will take place Friday Sept. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 406 White Plains Road.

The sale will feature household items, infant and toddler clothing, toys, tools and more. Lunch will be available for purchase each day from 11
a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Dorcas Mission Guild is sponsoring the event.

For further details, call the church office at 3728844.

Shehan Center programs BRIDGEPORT — The Cardinal Shehan Center, 1494 Main St., is offering a variety of programs this fall. Programs include Fitness for Life, swimming for all levels and ages, ballet, photography, a tutoring program and many others. Two new additions are: Strength & Conditioning, for high school youths who seek to inmprove sports performance; and a beginner ballroom dance class. Most 10week classes are $75 for nonmembers and $40 for members. Programs will begin Sept. 12. To pick up a fall brochure, or to register for programs, visit the center any weekday after Aug. 29 from 1 to 5:30 p.m.

For further details, call the center at 3364468.


Body sculpturing class

STRATFORD The Stratford Recreation Department is accepting registration for a new body sculpturing class, which will meet Mondays and Wednesday from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Baldwin Cdtner. Classes will starts Wednesday Sept. 14. A free demonstration class will be offered Monday Sept. 12 at 5 p.m. Cost is $50 for 12 classes. Registration is at the Recreation Office at Short Beach or call 3854052.


Rummage, bake sale

BRIDGEPORT A rummage sale and bake sale will take place Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 1475 Noble Ave.

Clothing and household items, along with baked goods, will be available for purchase.


Spaghetti dinner

FAIRFIELD — The monthly spaghetti dinners will start Saturday Sept. 10 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Fairfield Grace United Methodist Church, 1089 Fairfield Woods Road.

The allyoucaneat meal features three homemade sauces, meatballs, breads, garden and fruit salads, beverages and desserts. Cost is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $4 for children under 12. The 100th diner eats free. Reservations aren't required. For further details, call the church at 3746528.


Slovak picnic

BRIDGEPORT The Slovak Alliance of Greater Bridgeport Inc. is sponsoring a Slovak picnic Sunday Sept. 11 from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Germania Schwaben Hall, 416 Horace St. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Music will be by Kontakty.

Admission is $5 per person for those over 14 years of age.

For further details, call Martha at 3771874.


Harvest and Flower Show

STRATFORD — A Harvest and Flower Show will take place Sunday Sept. 11 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Sterling House Community Center, 2283 Main St.

The annual event is presented by the Greater Bridgeport Men's Garden Club.

Flowers, vegetables, hanging baskets, arrangements and plants will be on display. Master gardeners will be available to answer gardening questions.

Admission is free.


Video to be shown

STRATFORD The John Birch Society will present the screening of a video titled "Stepping Stones to World Government Through the FTAA" Saturday Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. at the Lovell Room of the Stratford Library, 2203 Main St. The video explains how the Free Trade Area of the Americas and other treaties effect the rights and freedom of Americans.


Time for bingo

BRIDGEPORT — An afternoon of bingo will take place Sunday Sept. 11 at St. Ambrose Church, 1596 Boston Ave. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., and the games will begin at 1 p.m.

Admission is $20 for the package, which includes cards for 17 games.

Coffee and tea will be provided free; hot dogs, hamburgers and pastry will be available for purchase. For further details, call Gloria at 3679656.


Craft fair on the green

SHELTON — The Shelton Women's Club will conduct its annual Cider and Donuts Craft Fair Sunday Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, on the Huntington Green. Vendors will be selling a variety of handmade arts and crafts. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

For further details, call 9268802.

911 prayer service

FAIRFIELD — The community is invited to attend a prayer service in observance of the fourth anniversary of 911 Saturday Sept. 10 at 5 p.m. at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, 1045 Old Academy Road.

The service will include music by Fairfield pianists Felix Jarrar, 9, and his sister Petra, 7, who will play familiar and original pieces for the special service. Hurricane Relief Dinner

FAIFIELD — A Hurricane Relief Dinner will take place Monday Sept. 12 starting at 6 p.m. and running to 9 p.m. at Saint Tropez Bistro Francais, 52 Sanford St.

Cajun dinners, featuring a choice of several entrees, including spicy Bayou crayfish gratin with mushrooms, Cajun catfish, chicken Creole and roasted pork chop, will be offered and will include appetizer, salad, dessert and selected wine.

Cost is $100 per person. All money received, including all gratuities, will be donated to the Red Cross for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Reservations are recommended; call 2548094.


Actor performs at church

FAIRFIELD — A twopart program featuring TV star Frank Runyeon will take place Sunday Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Fairfield, 2475 Easton Turnpike.

Runyeon is best known for his role on "As the World Turns" opposite Meg Ryan and his frequent appearances on "LA Law," "General Hospital" and "Melrose Place."

The first half of the program will be a dramatic performance based on the "Sermon on the Mount." After a short intermission, the second part of the progranm "Hollywood vs. Faith," will be offered. Runyeon will discuss his personal experiences in the media work.

A freewill offering will be taken. A reception with Runyeon will follow his performance. The event is open to all. It is cosponsored by Covenant Church of Easton.


Art festival in Black Rock

BRIDGEPORT — The Barnum Festival will host an art festival Saturday Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Fairfield Avenue near the intersection of Brewster Street in the city's Black Rock section.

Artists will display their crafts, including jewelry, watercolors, masks, sculpture, photography and caricatures. Also featured will be live blues music, a Latino dance troupe, clowns and face painters. Restaurants and delis will offer food and refreshments for sale.

The event is open to the public free of charge. For further information, call 3678495. Lecture on supernatural

STRATFORD — A lecture on the supernatural will be presented by John Zaffis Friday Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. in the community center at BootheMemorial Park, 5774 Main St. Putney.

Zaffis will offer a slide presentation on documented hauntings that he has worked on and will include haunted dolls, houses, cemeteries, churches and inns; poltergeists and exorcisms.

The event is a fundraiser for Boothe Museum. Tickets are $15 and will be sold at the door.


Redeemable drive

FAIRFIELD — The Stratfield Volunteer Fire Department will conduct its monthly redeemable drive Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon at the firehouse on Jackman Avenue.

Redeemable cans, plastic and glass bottles will be collected. Volunteers will unload donations from cars. Redeemable drives take place on the second Saturday of every month at the firehouse. Pet adoption event

STRATFORD — A pet adoption event will take plae Saturday Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Stratford Animal Shelter, 9 Frog Pond Lane.

The event is sponsored by Stratfrod Animal Rescue Society (STARS).


Fish dinner at church

BRIDGEPORT — Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church will conduct a fish dinner Wednesday Sept. 14 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at Holy Trinity Hall, 225 Scofield Ave.

The menu will feature beerbatted cod, paprika potatoes, cole slaw, roll, dessert and coffee or tea. Cost is $10.

A child's meal, featuring macaroni and cheese, juice box and dessert, will be available for $5.

For reservations, call Carol Jones at 3330779. Walkins will be welcome.


Bottle and can drive

STRATFORD — The Bunnell High School Marching Band and Color Guard is hosting a returnable drive on Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon in the parking lot of the school, Bulldog Boulevard.


Antique car show

REDDING — An antique car show will take place Saturday Sept. 10, rain or shine, at Lonetown Farm and Museum, Route 107.

The event is sponsored by the Fairfield County Region of the Horseless Carriage Club of America and Antique Automobile Club of America.

More than 120 pre1942 cars, including names such as Pierce Arrow, Locomobile, Stanley Steamer and Packard, will be on display. A flea market offering car parts and memorabilia will also be featured.

The public is invited to bring a picnic lunch or purchase food that will be sold at a food tent. Admission is $8 for adults (free for children 12 and under). All admission fees will benefit the Redding Historical Society.


Fundraiser for animals

SHELTON — Pet Protectors is conducting a 99 cent extravaganza event and bake sale Saturday Sept. 10 from noon to 4 p.m at WalMart, Bridgeport Ave. New items available for 99 cents will include stationery, clothes, frames, toys and more. Proceeds will benefit the groups many rescued dogs and cats.

In addition, Pet Protectors will be conducting a 99 cent extravaganzs on Saturday Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 20 Baxter Lanes. Items selling for 99 cents will include toys, household items, clothes, pocketbooks and more. For details, call 3300255.


Annual family festival

BRIDGEPORT — English Chapel Cathedral of Miracles will present its 10th annual family festival Saturday Sept. 10 from 10:45 a.m. to 8 pm. at 130 Wilmont Ave., corner of Orange Street. The rain date is Oct. 8.

The festival features gospel groups, choirs, soloists, musicians, drill teams, a fashion show, vendors, a health fair, a basketball tournament and free hot dogs, hamburgers and soda.

For further details, call 3321991.


Norwalk Oyster Festival

NORWALK — The 28th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival will take place Friday through Sunday Sept. 911 at Veteran's Park, Seaview Avenue. The event features entertainment, activities for children and adults, crafts, amusement rides, food and more.

Hours are 6 to 11 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

Admission at the gate is $10 for adults, $6 for seniors 62 and up, $3 for children 512 and free for children under 5. For further details, call 8389444 or visit www.seaport.org.


SCUBA diving course

NORWALK — The YMCA of Norwalk, 370 West Ave., will be offering an open water SCUBA diving certification course Monday and Tuesday evenings, beginning Sept. 12. Class sessions will take place on Mondays and pool sessions on Tuesdays. For further information, including cost and times, or to register, call 9528679.

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Class in safe boating

STRATFORD — U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 242 will conduct a course in safe boating Sunday Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Base, 1 Birdseye St.

The course will qualify participants to obtain a state safeboating certificate.

Cost is $75, which includes textbook and lunch. Registration must be made in advance; call 9296007.


Sterling House blood drive

STRATFORD Sterling House Community Center, 2283 Main St., will host a Red Cross blood drive Friday Sept. 9 from 1:30 to 6:15 p.m. Donors must be 17 years or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.

To make an appointment, call Sterling House at 3782606 or the Red Cross at 180044835433.


5K race scheduled

STRATFORD — The Lordship Runabout 5K race will take place Saturday Sept. 10 at Lordship Community Church, 179 Prospect Drive.

The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a kids' fun run. The 5K race will begin at 9 a.m. Registration will be from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. Entry for the 5K race is $20; entry fee for the kids' fun run is $5.

All entrants will receive free Tshirts.

For further information, or for registration forms, call 3776568.


Talk on food stressors

MILFORD — A talk on common foods that cause stress will be offered tonight Thursday Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Milford Hospital.

Diane FrankelGramelis will also discuss foods that work to help one feel better.

The class is free, but registration is required; call 8764004.


Yoga workshop

MILFORD — The Milford Recreation Department will be conducting a freestyle yoga workshop at 9:30 a.m. on Mondays, beginning Sept. 12, at the Margaret Egan Center, Matthew Street.

Beginners are welcome.

The fee for the 12week workshop is $48 for Milford residents ($5 more for nonresidents).

To register, call Linda Ball at 7833280, ext. 8, by Friday Sept. 9.


Flea market at church

ORANGE — A flea market will take place Saturday Sept. 10 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Church of the Good Shepherd, 680 Racebrook Road.

A variety of items will be offered. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. For vendor space reservations, call Bud Clarke at 9344446.


Seminar for grandparents

MILFORD — A "Grandparents Are Special" seminar will be offered free of charge Saturday Sept. 10 at Babies "R" Us, 152224 Boston Post Road.

The event will assist new and expecting grandparents sort through the variety of new baby products and supplies that are available. Included will be product demonstrations on car seats, strollers and cribs; free educational brochures; and a questionandanswer period. Refreshments will be included.

For further details, call the store at 8769979.


White elephant/tag sale

WEST HAVEN — A white elephant/tag sale will take place Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the White Elephant Shop, located on the lower level of Frist Congregational Church, 464 Campbell Ave.

Featured will be household items, furniture, jewelry, collectibles and toys. For further information, call 9346230.


Hosting a tag sale

HAMDEN — The Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus will sponsor a tag sale Saturday Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sacred Heart Manor, 261 Benham St. The event will take place rain or shine.

The sale will feature a variety of items, including decorations, crafts, toys, household items, small furniture and more. For further information, call Sister Catherine at 2484031.


Nature center program

ANSONIA — The Ansonia Nature Center will offer a program on the fish, turtles, frogs and aquatic insects in its Redwing Pond Saturday Sept. 10 at 2 p.m. The program is designed for families. Attendees should wear clothes and shoes they won't mind getting wet and muddy.

To register for the free program, call the center at 7361053.


New Haven Green concert

NEW HAVEN — The Subway Regional Symphony Orchestra and Chorale will perform a free concert Sunday Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. on the New Haven Green.

The concert, titled "Back to Broadway," will highlight Broadway music. The second part of the concert will be a tribute to the heroes and victims of 911 and hurricane rescue efforts. Also featured will be members of the Cheshire Dance Center.

For further information, call 8768408.


Arts and crafts show

BETHANY — An arts and crafts show will be presented Saturday Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, at First Church of Christ Congregational, 511 Amity Road (Route 63).

Handcrafters from throughout New England will be displaying and selling a variety of items, including jewelry, wooden articles, clothing, candles, pottery and more. Admission is $2 (free for children under 12). Interested crafters are asked to call Becky at 3939203. RAN 9/1


Soccer club opening day

MILFORD Milford United Soccer Club will have its opening day activities Saturday Sept. 10 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the former Milford Academy, 5 Edgewood Ave. The rain date and location will be Sunday Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Washington Field.

Activities will include team and individual photo sessions, scrimmages, a dunk tank, a slide and obstacle course and a raffle; a concession stand will be open. The event is the club's only fundraising event. Prospective sponsors and/or goods and services donors, or those interested in volunteering, are asked to call Jennifer Lynch at 8821121.


Folk concert

BRANFORD — The Branford Folk Music Society will kick off its 32nd year with a performace by the Kossoy Sisters Saturday Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. in the auditorium of First Congregational Church of Branford, 1009 Main St. on the Branford Green.

The Kossoy Sisters performed at the first Newport Folk Festival in 1959. The duo is known for its clear, belllike harmonies.

Admission is $12 ($10 for BFMS members) and $3 for children 12 and under. For further details, call 4887715.


Harugari dinner

WEST HAVEN The Harugari GermanAmerican Society will conduct a "German Afternoon Dinner" Sunday Sept. 11 at the hall, 66 Highland St. Doors will open at 1 p.m. and dinner will be served at 2.

The menu will feature beef stroganoff, coffee and cake. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. For reservations, call Ruth Purvis at 9332424 or the club at 9339930.


Junior Ranger Program

ANSONIA — The Ansonia Nature Center invites boys and girls 11 to 14 years old with an interest in natural history, park management and environmental awareness to join its fall session of the Junior Ranger Program.

The eight-week sessions will begin on Thursday Sept. 15 at 3:30 p.m.

Sessions will include wildlife rehabilitation, landscaping using native plants and removal of invasive species, nature observation and awareness and the
day-to-day tasks involved in park managemen, including trail maintenance.

Priority registration is under way for Ansonia residents and FANCI members. (began Sept.1) If space remains, other can register Sept. 14 (call first). The program is free, but parent approval and an application are required. Class size is limited.

For further information, call the Nature Center at 7361053.


Career Pathways

HAMDEN Hamden Adult Education is offering a Career Pathways program for individuals who are looking to upgrade their basic skills, obtain a high school diploma, learn computer skills, jobseeking and jobkeeping skills.

Classes are free and take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Adult Eduction Learning Lab at the Keefe Community Center, 11 Pine St.

For further information, call 4072028 or 7739211.


'As You Like It' auditions

NEW HAVEN — Auditions for an allfemale version of William Shakespeare's "As You Like It'' will be conducted Friday Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at Act 2 Theatre on the campus of Albertus Magnus College, 700 Prospect St.

Those who audition are asked to bring a short monologue to recite. Rehearsals will be on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Performances will be Nov. 11, 12 and 13.

For details, call the theater at 7738584.


Orientation, classes for literacy volunteers

Literacy Volunteers of Southeastern Fairfield County is seeking volunteers interested in providing instruction for either Basic Literacy (BL) or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

Volunteers must attend an orientation meeting prior to tutor-training classes.

An orientation program will be conducted Saturday Sept. 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Joseph's Manor, Main Street, Trumbull.

Tutor-training classes in Basic Literacy will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays (Oct. 8, 22, 29, Dec. 3, Jan. 10) at St. Joseph's Manor.

Tutor training for ESOL will be offered from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays (Oct. 8, 15, 22 and two
follow-up sessions) at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Fairfield.

For further information, or to register, call 18003457323.


Sterling House offers writing course

STRATFORD — A course in short story writing for adults will begin Wednesday Sept. 21 at Sterling House Community Center, 2283 Main St.

The biweekly six sessions, which will run from 9:30 to 11 a.m., will be led by Remo Carboni of Milford, a retired educator who served 18 years with the Port Chester, N.Y., school system.

The course will cover plotting, characterization, scene development, dialogue, narration, point of view and other facets of writing.

Participants are encouraged to bring examples of their work for sharing, reading and discussion.

The course fee is $45 plus a Sterling House membership.

To register, or for further information, call 3782606 or visit www.sterlinghousecc.org.


Booklet celebrates landmark anniversaries

The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare honors three landmark federal programs in its newly released commemorative booklet on Social Security, Medicare and the Older Americans Act
(OAA).

Before Social Security became law in 1935, more than half of America's seniors lived in poverty. That number dropped to 35 percent after the passage of Medicare and the Older Americans Act in 1965. Now, less than 11 percent of older Americans currently live below the poverty line. Social Security, Medicare and the OAA have provided lifelines to millions of seniors, persons with disabilities and their families. This commemorative booklet celebrates these landmark anniversaries by highlighting the programs' histories, services and success stories. Copies of the booklet are available free of charge from the National Committee by calling 18009980181.

The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the board of directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing betterinformed citizens and voters.

Posted by connpost on 10:27 AM | Comments (0)

September 08, 2005

Those Were the Days: September 8, 1955

Fifty years ago, to the day, in the Bridgeport Telegram (now Connecticut Post) had some of the following stories:

Do you remember any of these stories? Share your memories. Leave your comments.

Posted by connpost on 03:38 PM | Comments (1)

IN FLAMES

Keith Muratori/For the Connecticut Post

Driver safe: A firefighter watches a vehicle Wednesday morning on Howe Avenue in Shelton. Shelton Companies 1 and 5 were called to the blaze at approximately 9:30 a.m. Engine 2 from Company 1 was the first apparatus on the scene in front of Riverview Park. The driver escaped the vehicle and watched it burn from a safe location.

Posted by connpost on 09:31 AM | Comments (0)

September 07, 2005

Today's Question (9/7/05)

Do you think that New Orleans will be rebuilt to its pre-Hurricane Katrina state?

Posted by connpost on 08:24 AM | Comments (2)

September 06, 2005

Today's Question (9/6/05)

Has the government been doing all it can to help hurricane refugees along the Gulf coast? Leave your comments.

HELP IS ON THE WAY

AP

Rescue workers search for Hurricane Katrina survivors in New Orleans Monday. The workers gathered at a flooded area on Interstate 10 to drop their boats in the water, then headed to nearby neighborhoods to rescue those left behind.

Posted by connpost on 08:27 AM | Comments (0)

September 05, 2005

Tapping the Brakes

Gov. M. Jodi Rell and Robert Genuario, her administration's budget czar, are uttering some tough words at the State Capitol: They say they're going to tighten up on state bonding.

Of course, many governors have uttered those words before. However, if anyone will make them hold truth it will be Rell, who chooses her words carefully and with much forethought.

It is time to tighten the state's belt on capital spending, words we've repeatedly written in these columns for the past decade.

The debt interest and principal on state bonding are costing taxpayers about 12 percent of every state budget dollar, in some budget years crowding out spending that could be devoted to discretionary programs or reduced taxes.

Connecticut ranks tops in the nation in per capita state government debt (about $3,600 for each resident according to Moody's Investor Service).

Of course, state residents have the ability to carry such a high debt because Connecticut also has the highest personal income per capita in the nation.

What's troubling, however, is that Connecticut is outpacing other states now in the increase in tax-supported debt and that's why it would be wise for the Rell administration to gently tap on the brake pedal when it comes to state bonding.

During the past decade, generous school construction reimbursements have greatly increased bonding, but so, too, have a lot of pork-barrel capital projects sought by lawmakers and former governors.

Rell has the ultimate power of setting the state Bond Commission agenda and we have little doubt from her recent comments that she will utilize that power.

In the end, reducing the high level of state bonding will pay dividends to state taxpayers.

Posted by connpost on 12:27 PM | Comments (0)

Labor Day Retriever ... Just Out of Reach

Go fetch: (LEFT) Tommy Magnusson, 7, of Fairfield, runs along side his dog Brandy, as they play fetch together in Sturges Park in Fairfield during the Labor Day weekend on Sunday. Tommy was with his parents Mary and Phil, who also played fetch with Brandy.

Coming up a littler short: (RIGHT) Three year old Finn Joyce of Fairfield tried his very hardest to reach the shower cord in hopes of getting a cool blast on a recent hot afternoon at Lake Mohegan in Fairfield.

Posted by connpost on 11:58 AM | Comments (0)

It's All in the Cards

Andrea A. Dixon/Connecticut Post

Friendly game: Mary Opuszynsky, left, and Jeanette Mackenzie, both of Orange, look on as Tillie Kodnia of Shelton and Mary Cardea of West Haven checks out their cards during a recent game of "31" at the Orange Senior Center.

Posted by connpost on 10:13 AM | Comments (0)

September 04, 2005

HELPING FROM AFAR

B.K. Angeletti/Connecticut Post

Pitching in: Michaelyn Memoli, 15, left, and Kortnie Netsel, 16, both of Stratford, raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims Saturday in Bridgeport. The teenagers set up outside Memoli and Memoli Real Estate Investments on East Main Street. The donations will be sent to the American Red Cross' hurricane relief fund.

Posted by connpost on 12:32 PM | Comments (1)

September 03, 2005

Best and the rest for the past week

Thumbs up to the Shelton program that allowed kindergartners, many of whom never rode on a school bus before, to experience their bus route ahead of the start of school. The bus safety program not only allowed these “rookies” of school busing a glimpse into their future mode of transportation to school, but it also taught the young students valuable safety tips on how to conduct oneself while on or around the bus. While tears may have been flowing from the eyes of students and parents alike, the program is a novel idea and a good one to help ease the transition into regular school life. The first day of school may still have been a nerve-racking experience for these kindergartners, but seeing their new school no doubt provided some relief and peace of mind to students and parents.

Thumbs up to all who participated in the ice hockey tournament for the benefit of 5-year-old Paul "Paulie" Cordero VI recently in Bridgeport. Paulie, who was diagnosed with brain cancer late last year, was aided by the compassion of John Ferguson, manager of the pro shop at the Wonderland of Ice. Through Ferguson’s efforts, Paulie now has a van in which he can be more easily transported to his treatments. And now, most recently, Ferguson organized the hockey tournament, which featured several National Hockey League players, an assistant coach with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers and Bridgeport’s Finest police hockey team. Ferguson and all involved deserve special commendation for their efforts to aid this young man.

Thumbs up to the Trumbull Chamber of Commerce for supporting Trumbull High School scholarships by being willing to sponsor this year’s Great Pumpkin Classic in October. The chamber stepped forward and took over sponsorship of the 15th annual Pumpkin Run at Trumbull High School. The run, which is one of the premier four-milers of the year in this region, also features a Kid’s Fun Run, a two-mile health walk plus lots of food, fun, and excitement. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Trumbull High School Scholarship Fund and the Trumbull Chamber of Commerce Community Grant Fund, which is used to support town activities. Each year the race draws 600 to 700 runners, walkers and youngsters. In the past 14 years more than $100,000 has been raised for Trumbull High School scholarships.

Thumbs up to Office Depot for distributing more than 1,500 backpacks to 13 community groups and students at the Trumbull Gardens multipurpose center in Bridgeport. The students, who were happy and grateful to receive the backpacks, said they would use them to organize their school supplies. Across the outer-patch of the backpacks is a reflective strip designed to make the packs easy to see at night. Many of the boys and girls who received the packs were so excited with their gifts that they walked outside the multipurpose center following the donation ceremony and talked with one another in large groups while wearing the packs. The event took place while the youngsters were attending the center’s summer camp program.

Posted by connpost on 11:02 AM | Comments (0)

Holiday plans take back seat

As gas prices shot into the stratosphere this week, Bridgeport residents are rethinking of going anywhere for Labor Day.

Many residents of the region who will stick a little closer to home this holiday weekend because of gasoline sticker shock.

On Thursday the national price of regular unleaded gasoline rose to $2.87, up 16 cents from a day before — and up 99 cents from a year before, according to AAA. Gas averaged nearly $2.88 in Connecticut. But for many in Fairfield County, where prices for unleaded regular have run well over $3 a gallon, that seems like a bargain. Gas prices are putting a damper on many families' holiday plans. (Find cheap gas)

Posted by connpost on 10:26 AM | Comments (0)

September 02, 2005

Gas woes far from over

Overnight price hikes weigh on consumers; poll says Americans want Bush to make gas prices priority.

Prices at the pump rose nationwide as damage caused by Hurricane Katrina disrupted distribution of supplies to key distribution centers and terminals.

Are oil prices affecting you? Does price gouging concern you? Do you see the $4 a gallon gas coming soon? Leave your comments. (READ Gas Gouging FAQ)

Posted by connpost on 10:57 AM | Comments (0)

Student News: Understanding Hurricanes

Introduction: Hurricanes are the most powerful weather systems on Earth, though they are known by different names in different regions. In the Western Pacific, for example, you will hear hurricanes referred to as "cyclones." Hurricane season in the Atlantic, the time when hurricanes are most apt to form, runs from June 1 until November 30.

Formation: Most hurricanes that eventually make it to the southern United States get their start as tropical waves off the west coast of Africa. The warm waters there give rise to clusters of thunderstorms that move over miles of warm ocean currents. As the winds in these storms move in colliding directions, they form a circulation over an area of low pressure. The condensation of water vapor "feeds" the storm, which continues to grow in strength as long as it is over warm water or warm, moist air.

Stages of development: These vertical systems that develop over the ocean are categorized by their wind speeds. Once its winds reach a maximum of 38 miles per hour (mph), a system is labeled a tropical disturbance or tropical depression. In any given hurricane season, only about 10 percent of these depressions make it to the next stage, tropical storm. When its winds reach 39 mph, the system becomes a tropical storm and is given a name.

Tropical storms are capable of property damage and flooding. In June 2001, Tropical Storm Allison hit the city of Houston, Texas, dropping 37 inches of rain in five days.

If a tropical storm's winds reach or exceed 74 mph, the system officially becomes a hurricane. The hurricane is a well-organized storm with a well-defined eye, capable of mild to extensive damage.

Intensity: Hurricanes are categorized primarily by their wind speeds. Storm surge and minimum surface pressure are also contributing factors. Meteorologists use the Saffir-Simpson Scale, a 1 to 5 rating system, to estimate the potential damage of a hurricane, with a Category 5 being the strongest and deadliest storm.

Who's at risk? The Eastern United States is most vulnerable to hurricanes, along the coast from Maine to Texas. Of the 10 tropical storms on average that develop in the North Atlantic each year, two are likely to have an impact on the U.S. Hawaii is also at risk from tropical storms that develop in the Pacific Ocean. If you live in an area that is at risk, you should have a plan in place if evacuation becomes necessary, and you should know your evacuation routes. Hurricanes are serious, dangerous storms, but there's usually enough advance warning to take action to protect yourself, your family, and your property.

(Sources: CNN.com and FEMA)

Posted by connpost on 10:52 AM | Comments (0)

Caulley, Taylor lead UConn

It's a rout!

UCONN 38
BUFFALO 0

EAST HARTFORD — The college football landscape looks considerably different this season because of conference realignment, but few people re-alized Nebraska's offense moved to Connecticut.

Never in its Division I-AA heyday or its Division I-A infancy was UConn known as an option team, but that could soon change. Led by the dynamic, diminutive duo of 5-foot-7 Terry Caulley and 5-6 Larry Taylor, the Huskies opened up the 2005 season with a bang, pounding Buffalo 38-0 before a sellout crowd of 40,000 at Rentschler Field Thursday night.

The Huskies, directed by fleet-footed, first-time starting quarterback Matt Bonislawski, racked up 290 yards rushing, the highest total since their move to Division I-A. Caulley had 100 on the ground and Bonislawski 71, the latter of which was compiled mostly via option plays.

"You try to take advantage of the people you have and utilize their skills the best way you can," UConn coach Randy Edsall said. "The option can help you. It's a change-of-pace type thing. It's something that might drive some people out from blitzing you a bunch."

Nebraska, or at least the Nebraska of old, the Huskies are not. But they do have plenty of options when it comes to the ground game.

"It's not really my priority to run first. I'd like to throw first," said Bonislawski, who had a 26-yard touchdown run in the third quarter on an option play. "But things break down and I'm able to run."

Caulley, returning to the field after missing nearly two years because of a knee injury, picked up his 11th 100-yard effort in 16 career games. Third-string tailback Taylor, who does most of his work on special teams, dominated that area with 161 yards in the return game.

"Larry Taylor did some great things on the field tonight," Caulley said. "And Bones (Bonislawski) being able to run, that took a lot of pressure off the run game."

The Huskies broke the game open on the backs of their pint-sized duo. With his team leading 3-0 in the second quarter on the strength of a Matt Nuzie field goal, Taylor's 50-yard punt return set the Huskies up at the Buffalo 35. A 21-yard run by Caulley on the first play from scrimmage was fol-lowed two plays later by the first of two touchdown catches by tight end Dan Murray.

The Huskies may have relied on their "short game" between the 20s, but they turned to their former basketball star when they reached the red zone. The Huskies' first touchdown of the season, and the first of Bonislawski's career, came after the junior quarterback lofted a pass high into the end zone. The 6-foot-5 Murray snatched the ball out of the air, winning the jump-ball battle from the Buffalo defensive backs Kareem Byrom (5-9) and Gerald Jackson (5-11).

Bonislawski was 11-of-18 passing for 121 yards and two touchdowns through the air.

"He came out composed and he was ready to go. That's exactly what we needed," Murray said of Bonislawski. "He took a leadership role."

The home team spent nearly all of the second quarter on the brown turf at Rentschler Field. The grass inside the 15-yard line on the field's west side was completely brown thanks to the stage from a Rolling Stones concert six days earlier, but the Huskies didn't seem to mind.

Trailing 10-0, Buffalo ran a fake punt on fourth-and-4 from their own 37 on the ensuing possession. It failed, however, and three plays later Bon-islawski and Murray hooked up again. Murray eluded Byrom near the post and hauled in a 22-yard touchdown pass that put the Huskies up 17-0 with 4:15 left until halftime.

Another brief Buffalo drive was followed by a Ben Woods punt and another exciting return by Taylor. The latter picked up another 25 yards in return yardage to set UConn up at the Buffalo 42 with 1:37 left on the clock.

Caulley nearly broke away for a touchdown on the first play of the drive, getting stopped by Buffalo's Ramon Guzman at the 13 after a 29-yard run. Caulley then appeared to give the Big East its first opportunity to use a newly installed instant replay system.

Caulley sprinted around the left end and appeared destined for the end zone. He planted his foot as he neared the sideline and the end zone, leaping to the corner and reaching around the pylon. Field officials ruled that Caulley had stepped out of bounds, however, and placed the ball at the 1. The replay official in the press box declined to review it.

It mattered little, as Caulley ran the ball in on the next play to make it 24-0 Huskies.

The Bulls had just three first downs and 60 yards of total offense in the first half. They have been shut out by the Huskies in each of their last two games, including last season's 29-0 romp.

Edsall was beaming after the win.

"Take a look around the country and see how many people shut people out. And see how many people score 38 points," Edsall said. "I don't care who you're lined up against ... it's a great feather in those kids' caps."

—NEILL OSTROUT

Posted by connpost on 09:41 AM | Comments (0)

Katrina's impact felt at gas pumps

Hurricane Katrina wreaked unimaginable havoc on the Gulf Coast, but it's become evident in the past few days that she's also landed heavy body blows to most of America in the process.

Gasoline prices are skyrocketing across the nation and the days of $3- to $4-per gallon gasoline may be with us for several months, according to oil industry observers.

In the worst-case scenario, which hopefully won't occur, "Out of Gas" signs could even make a return, bringing back the haunting nightmares of the gasoline shortages of the 1970s.

That's why it's imperative for Connecticut's elected political officials — from the governor to state lawmakers to members of our congressional delegation — to engage in extremely close monitoring of gasoline sales for price gouging, profit taking and inventory manipulation, especially at the wholesale level.

In addition, the officials must identify and act on viable strategies to reduce the price of gasoline, whether it be temporary suspension of the state and federal gasoline taxes or Connecticut's recently increased 5.8 percent gross receipts tax on oil products.

Consumers must not panic, but do their part. Don't "top off" gas tanks. Conserve fuel by using mass transit, vehicle pooling or simply reducing the number of trips. Leave the gasoline-gulping SUV parked in the garage.

It's becoming increasingly clear that Katrina's wallop will have long-range ramifications for the American economy.

Mother Nature's wrath knocked out of service all eight Gulf Coast refineries, four of which specifically produce gasoline. Together, they produce one-third of this nation's fuel.

Believe it or not, the next closest area of major refineries for the U.S. is Venezuela, a 2-day tanker trip.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell is convening a major meeting with energy and utility representatives today at the state Capitol to explore alternatives. That will be a help.

However, it is the Bush administration and Congress that must take the lead to head-off and resolve this impending national crisis.

After years of work, Congress approved an energy package this summer, but it tragically fails to address most of the problems which have now suddenly shown up at our doorstep — especially the questions of energy efficiency.

Perhaps Katrina's knockout punch will provide a new impetus for change in that direction. If so, Connecticut's two senators and five congressmen, who have consistently fought for a more fuel-efficient national energy policy, must play a major part.

There aren't going to be easy answers to this impending crisis because it's been a long time in the making. But there are answers and now's the time to find them.

Posted by connpost on 09:39 AM | Comments (0)

Today's Question

We're heading into the final month of the regular Major League Baseball season. There's a tight race in the American League East. Who's going to win the division — the Red Sox or the Yankees? Leave your comments.

Posted by connpost on 08:06 AM | Comments (0)

September 01, 2005

Trumbull High principal named

Stratford principal and administrator has been named the new principal of Trumbull High School.

The appointment of Robert Tremaglio is effective Oct. 1.

"He has a wealth of experience in education, particularly at the high school level," said Supt. of Schools Ralph Iassogna. "He is very strong in the curriculum and instructional areas."

Tremaglio was slated to be introduced to the high school faculty and staff Wednesday, the day before the scheduled start of the new academic year today.

He will be paid $127,314 annually.

Tremaglio takes over from Gary Cialfi, who left the high school to take on the job as the Trumbull schools' director of curricu-lum, instruction and assessment, a revamped administrative post with new responsibilities. Cialfi came to Trumbull High School in September 2001.

He could not be reached for comment.

"One of his best assets is that he is a great communicator and has superb interpersonal skills," Iassogna said of Tremaglio.

Stratford Supt. of Schools Irene Cornish said Tremaglio had done a good job as principal of Bunnell High School, stepping in after longtime Principal Ed Schuck retired last year. Tremaglio also had been an assistant superintendent of schools in Stratford.

Cornish said the school district has not yet decided how it will find Tremaglio's replacement.

Tremaglio was one of five candidates recommended for the Trumbull job by Goens and Esparo, a leadership consulting firm.

The school district's screening committee narrowed that number to three and after interviews with the Board of Education and Iassogna, the choices were whittled to two.

"It was a very difficult decision" between the two, Iassogna said.

—Genevieve Reilly

Posted by connpost on 10:53 AM | Comments (0)

Ambulance corps progress continues

Last night's contract signing by the Seymour Ambulance Association, which gives the town of Seymour more oversight of the volunteer corps, is a major step toward putting the marred history of the ambulance company in the town's past.

The contract, signed at Seymour Town Hall, is hopefully a move toward preventing the kind of fiscal recklessness that was allegedly employed to run the corps under its embattled former chief, Frank Marcucio III, currently the subject of a state criminal investigation.

Marcucio is accused of having misappropriated tens of thousands of dollars of the ambulance group's money for personal use, according to preliminary findings by state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal.

Situations like that, which Marcucio allegedly took advantage of, most often exist only in a system where there are no checks and balances. This new contract with the town of Seymour will decidedly install a system of greater financial responsibility at Seymour Ambulance.

From now on, town officials will have expanded oversight over the group's finances. Assets such as vehicles will be put partially in the town's name so that Seymour could turn them over to another group in the future should the ambulance corps ever dissolve. In addition, the contract strictly defines the financial commitment into payments for dispatch service on behalf of the town.

The alleged scandal at Seymour Ambulance tarnished both the town of Seymour and the volunteer corps. As the state's investigation into any financial improprieties at the group continues, it's reassuring to know serious steps are being taken by both the town and Seymour Ambulance to prevent a reoccurrence of the past.

The service that Seymour Ambulance provides to the people of Seymour is invaluable. This contract represents the progression of the town's working relationship with the ambulance corps, and that ought to be commended by all of us.

Posted by connpost on 10:49 AM | Comments (0)