BTC –Day 6 Journal – West Hartford, Holy Family to New Britain, Corbin Heights Public Housing Project
Lou, Fr. Stephen, and Johnnie F left around 6:30 in the morning heading for WDRC station to talk on the air with Brad Davis. They would meet Charlie there. Charlie was biking from Vernon. All were prepared to stay on talk and speak to our mission.
The discussion with Brad went perfectly well and was totally focused on the mission. Brad seemed into it and welcomed us back next year. The four left feeling pretty good.
They headed for Senator Dodd’s office on Lewis Street in downtown Hartford.
The rest of the team went to mass and had their breakfast. They would meet the other bikers at the state capital for a visit with Deb Polun, Legislative Director of the Connecticut Commission on Aging.
The meeting with Mark Stephanou at Senator Dodd’s office went quite well and we discussed the Measurement of Poverty Bill currently before the House of Representatives and hopefully to be put before the Senate by Dodd. It would redefine how poverty is measured. The old measurement is dated form the 1960’s and does not take into consideration housing, child care, and health costs among other things and can have a startling affect on the actual number of people in poverty in the United States. We are looking forward to the redefinition as we use these facts and numbers in our presentations. We believe rather than only 37 million Americans in poverty based on the current definition, there are more like 90 million working poor in America, 1/3 of the population of the United States. Shameful!
The three of us left Senator Dodd’s office and met the rest of the team at the capital. We had lunch right there on the Capital ground and then proceeded upstairs to meet with Deb Polun.
We had met her when she was an aid for Don Williams. She is now in a far more influential position and actually called Charlie as she felt our group could benefit in a discussion with her office. She advocates for the elderly and we now have an agency we can point to in this regard. The discussion was informative as well as enlightening. Pam added the below regarding the visit.
We met with Deb Polun (Legislative Director) and Robert Norton (Communication Director) of Connecticut Commission on Aging. This visit was very educational to all members of our group. This agency works on research and public policy of issues that affect our senior population. They work with both sides of the aisle within the state government to educate representatives and senators on what is right for our seniors.
Some facts that we learned:
Ø The senior population will triple by 2030
Ø Connecticut is the 7th oldest age population
Ø 50% of senior women live on their social security payments alone
Ø New Initiative-State Elder Economic Security Initiative
v Research being done to see what it really costs for a senior to live.
v They will take into account where seniors live, what kind of housing they live in and different economic status.
Ø Seniors need to be given the choice and independence to stay at home rather than going to a nursing home. Services need to be provided so this can happen. This is expensive at first but will be cost saving in the long run.
Ø Biggest challenge of moving seniors out of nursing homes is affordable housing. Initial setup and services need to be in place before any of this can happen.
Ø A program that has been started in Connecticut is called “Money follows the Person”. This program lets seniors stay in their homes and provides services while in the home. It is about choice and independence. This program has been established in Oregon saving 6 million dollars a year. This program needs our support.
Ø Some of their allies are Jonathon Harris (West Hartford), Mary Ann Handley (Manchester) and Peter Vallano (Hamden)
Ø Call the Governor not to cut the Commission on Aging or any services that affect this population.
We then walked over to the Legislative Office building and actually popped in on our state representatives and Senators. None were present but we were able to leave pertinent notes to them. This was all done on the spur of the moment as a response to the suggestion by Deb Polun. Worked out quite nicely.
Some of us next ventured over to Congressman John Larson’s office to speak with John Rossi, Representative Larson’s aid. We have met with Mr. Rossi a number of times and the discussion centered on the devastation in Wethersfield as a result of the tornado that hit the other day. We did also discuss poverty issues and he was right on top of things.
He gave us an overview of what has been happening at the federal level. Healthcare is one of the biggest issues that will have to be decided at the federal level. A middle ground will have to be found for healthcare. The Congressman does not want anyone to go into poverty because of lack of healthcare or inadequate healthcare. The SCHIP money for children’s healthcare is up. The Recovery Act has supplied 11 million dollars for homeless prevention and 25 million for public housing. What people need to understand is that this money really is not for stimulus but for stability. Over the past 8 years, these programs have been under funded so now we just have to catch up. Money for education from the Recovery Act has begun to come into the state. It is sitting until the state budget is passed. One important bill that the Congressman is passionate about is the Youth Promise Act. It is an investment for our future. Councils in high-risk cities will develop a comprehensive plan for implementing evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies. These strategies will be targeted at young people who are at-risk of becoming involved, or involved in, gangs or the criminal justice system to redirect them toward productive and law-abiding alternatives. This bill will be reintroduced on July 15th. Congressman Larson is now the 4th ranking democrat in the House. He has decided not to co-sponsor bills but work very hard within the leadership to get his point across. He was having a public forum on health care that evening at Manchester Community College.
We had to cut the discussion short because we had to be over in New Britain by 3:00.
We all headed over. While biking there, Lou received a couple of calls that the vehicle that Fred was driving had a dead battery. Problem. No jumper cables. Bought a new battery. Still problems. Dave and Fred went and got a part to fix the battery cable. They got to Corbin Heights in time for the presentation.
Lou was greeted by Kim McLaughlin and the other folks from PHRN. Mayor Tim Stewart arrived. The Archbishop arrived. We were good to go. Lou acted as master of ceremonies and did a good job of keeping the flow and getting everyone to speak and say what they had to say in a timely period. Other dignitaries included State Representative Tim O’Brien, PHRN President James White, and Alderman Ray Centano. It was declared PHRN Day as Mayor Stewart delivered the proclamation to resident Addie Keith. Lou brought this little kid, Jaoun, to the mike and had him turn around so we could se what was written on the back of his tee shirt. It read something about God and being with him was an adventure. Don’t remember the exact words.
Also, Archbishop Mansell awarded PHRN a $35,000 CCHD grant which just solidified the entire afternoon. The sun shined brightly and the wind blew a bit but everything went perfectly well.
The culmination of a great week long ride.
We all left for St. Bridget’s. Before anyone left we said a final prayer and hugged each other goodbye and looked forward to next year.
Lou rode home to help wind down. He made it home safely. No crashes this year.
Lou received a phone call from Fr. Jeffries a short time after he was home. Fr. Jeffries just wanted to know how the remainder of the ride went and how we made out at the Finale. Lou told him he helped make this year’s ride special. Great conclusion to the weeklong.
See you again next year. Pedal On!!!!!
Lou
Friday, July 3, 2009
BTC –Day 5 Journal – West Hartford, Holy Family to New Haven, St. Aedan’s
BTC –Day 5 Journal – West Hartford, Holy Family to New Haven, St. Aedan’s
We all attended 7:00 am mass at Holy Family. Fr. John served mass. We also engaged in a special breakfast. Fr. Terry has been such a great supporter of Brake the Cycle and our mission. Thank you Fr. Terry!!
After breakfast we continued a group discussion about the incident that occurred Saturday afternoon. Many feelings were expressed but it appeared more discussion has to occur.
We headed out around 8:15 Charlie and Wayne were not riding this day so Lou rode in the sweep position. The ride went smoothly except for the number of traffic lights and stops because on the number of bikers. It was difficult for the entire team to get through the green light.
The ride was made more fun because Johnnie F kept getting flat tires, three in fact! But that helped Lou get out of the funk he appeared to be in after the discussion this morning. He was able to discuss with Johnnie and get his feeling out there.
During the ride around the Southington area we came across some men picketing their place of business and we stopped to engage in conversation. They were not on strike but were picketing in favor of establishing a Union and to secure their contracts through negotiation.
As a result of Johnnie F’s third flat tire, he and Lou were late for lunch at St. Ann’s Soup Kitchen and did not get a chance to finish their meal. Luckily the Support crew had made lunches provided by Holy Familiy.
While at St. Ann’s Lou did get a chance to talk to one of the clients there. This individual told Lou that he really didn’t have to come to the soup kitchen that he was retired, had a place to live and only came to meet his friends. He did share that he collected empty bottles and cans for extra income. He told Lou how it takes so many bottles and cans to really add up to any significant amount of money. He shared that many of his fellow clients come because they have to, that they lost their jobs. He seemed happy. We saw him picking through the trash container while we gathered before leaving. We assume he was searching for bottles or cans.
We listened to Luke who runs the St. Ann’s Soup Kitchen and he advised us as to the number of folks they feed each day, anywhere from 100-150. The soup kitchen has been around since 1989.
After Luke gave us his little talk, he shared with us that he would be going over to CT Foodbank to pick up food for the soup kitchen and food pantry.
We left At. Ann’s and departed to either Rosa DeLauro office or to CT Foodbank. We split up into two groups of six and went our separate ways.
The CT Foodbank was excellent and we were provided with a lot of information that we compared to Foodshare in Bloomfield. Between these two, they serve 850 “programs”. CT Foodbank serves 220. The rest are served by Foodshare. We were again amazed on how they make the process work and also had to bid for certain produce.
We were again impressed by the fact they sometimes had to bid on shipments of various commodities. But apparently it all works out fine.
As we were there, different “clients’ came in to collect food for their respective agency. We met Luke there as he had said he would be there.
St. Ann’s is not only a Soup Kitchen but is also a Food Pantry where folks come to get specific foods only appropriate for Food Pantry, i.e. can goods, non-perishables.
Those of us who attended Rosa DeLauro’s office, met with Lou Mangini her congressional aide. We thanked Rosa for all her help in speaking for the poor. Lou stated that there has definitely been a change in thinking towards social services with the new administration. Money from the Recovery Act has begun to come into the state, but due to no budget being passed, the money may be sitting around. He said that it is very important for the budget to be passes because some of the funds have dates on them to be allocated. New Haven has started a program for affordable housing. Apartment buildings are being constructed and 80% will be rented at market value and 20% will be affordable housing. They are hoping this model will help all people renting take pride in where they live. We asked what we could tell people in New Haven during our presentation. He said you can have people write, e-mail or call Rosa’s office, but know she will always fight for the people in her district. He suggested people really getting involved in working with the youth in New Haven. He stated that the more these youth can see people care about them and are positive role models the better off we will be.
Those of us coming back from Ct Foodbank met the rest of the team at the Office of Urban Affairs building. We had a mini tour and talked to Lynn Campbell a bit.
The team left together to ride to St. Aedan’s. we got there shortly before Lina Alpert who organized our visit to St. Aedan’s. Loaded most of our bikes on the support vehicles at this time.
We set up for our presentation and suppered on sandwiches donated by Subway. Desserts were donated by Stop and Shop and Dunkin Donuts.
A nice crowd turned out, even New Haven Mayor John Destefano attended for a while anyway. We filled the small room. Our presentation went smoothly and last slightly more than an hour. We had some nice dialogue form some non-Catholic attendees and their perspective on our presentation. We actually had a godd interchange of dialogue.
Made some good contacts for the future. Possible interaction with the Deacon Group.
Talked to Lina afterwards and listened to her plea for assistance in getting more support for what she is trying to do at St. Aedan’s. She is a committee of one and needs help.. suggested she follow up with OUA. They should assist in this regard.
Lina was very pleased with our presentation and the number of people who showed up.
We left St. Aedan’s all in a good mood for a job well done.
When we arrived at Holy Family and congregated on the third floor for refreshments, we decided who would get up early to bike over to WDRC and tlak with Brad Davis and then proceed over to Senator Dodd’s office. Lou, Fr. Stephen, and Johnnie F would meet Charlie there at 7:30.
The rest of the crew would breakfast again at Holy Family after attending 7:00 mass. They would depart for the Capital and meet the others there.
Lou
We all attended 7:00 am mass at Holy Family. Fr. John served mass. We also engaged in a special breakfast. Fr. Terry has been such a great supporter of Brake the Cycle and our mission. Thank you Fr. Terry!!
After breakfast we continued a group discussion about the incident that occurred Saturday afternoon. Many feelings were expressed but it appeared more discussion has to occur.
We headed out around 8:15 Charlie and Wayne were not riding this day so Lou rode in the sweep position. The ride went smoothly except for the number of traffic lights and stops because on the number of bikers. It was difficult for the entire team to get through the green light.
The ride was made more fun because Johnnie F kept getting flat tires, three in fact! But that helped Lou get out of the funk he appeared to be in after the discussion this morning. He was able to discuss with Johnnie and get his feeling out there.
During the ride around the Southington area we came across some men picketing their place of business and we stopped to engage in conversation. They were not on strike but were picketing in favor of establishing a Union and to secure their contracts through negotiation.
As a result of Johnnie F’s third flat tire, he and Lou were late for lunch at St. Ann’s Soup Kitchen and did not get a chance to finish their meal. Luckily the Support crew had made lunches provided by Holy Familiy.
While at St. Ann’s Lou did get a chance to talk to one of the clients there. This individual told Lou that he really didn’t have to come to the soup kitchen that he was retired, had a place to live and only came to meet his friends. He did share that he collected empty bottles and cans for extra income. He told Lou how it takes so many bottles and cans to really add up to any significant amount of money. He shared that many of his fellow clients come because they have to, that they lost their jobs. He seemed happy. We saw him picking through the trash container while we gathered before leaving. We assume he was searching for bottles or cans.
We listened to Luke who runs the St. Ann’s Soup Kitchen and he advised us as to the number of folks they feed each day, anywhere from 100-150. The soup kitchen has been around since 1989.
After Luke gave us his little talk, he shared with us that he would be going over to CT Foodbank to pick up food for the soup kitchen and food pantry.
We left At. Ann’s and departed to either Rosa DeLauro office or to CT Foodbank. We split up into two groups of six and went our separate ways.
The CT Foodbank was excellent and we were provided with a lot of information that we compared to Foodshare in Bloomfield. Between these two, they serve 850 “programs”. CT Foodbank serves 220. The rest are served by Foodshare. We were again amazed on how they make the process work and also had to bid for certain produce.
We were again impressed by the fact they sometimes had to bid on shipments of various commodities. But apparently it all works out fine.
As we were there, different “clients’ came in to collect food for their respective agency. We met Luke there as he had said he would be there.
St. Ann’s is not only a Soup Kitchen but is also a Food Pantry where folks come to get specific foods only appropriate for Food Pantry, i.e. can goods, non-perishables.
Those of us who attended Rosa DeLauro’s office, met with Lou Mangini her congressional aide. We thanked Rosa for all her help in speaking for the poor. Lou stated that there has definitely been a change in thinking towards social services with the new administration. Money from the Recovery Act has begun to come into the state, but due to no budget being passed, the money may be sitting around. He said that it is very important for the budget to be passes because some of the funds have dates on them to be allocated. New Haven has started a program for affordable housing. Apartment buildings are being constructed and 80% will be rented at market value and 20% will be affordable housing. They are hoping this model will help all people renting take pride in where they live. We asked what we could tell people in New Haven during our presentation. He said you can have people write, e-mail or call Rosa’s office, but know she will always fight for the people in her district. He suggested people really getting involved in working with the youth in New Haven. He stated that the more these youth can see people care about them and are positive role models the better off we will be.
Those of us coming back from Ct Foodbank met the rest of the team at the Office of Urban Affairs building. We had a mini tour and talked to Lynn Campbell a bit.
The team left together to ride to St. Aedan’s. we got there shortly before Lina Alpert who organized our visit to St. Aedan’s. Loaded most of our bikes on the support vehicles at this time.
We set up for our presentation and suppered on sandwiches donated by Subway. Desserts were donated by Stop and Shop and Dunkin Donuts.
A nice crowd turned out, even New Haven Mayor John Destefano attended for a while anyway. We filled the small room. Our presentation went smoothly and last slightly more than an hour. We had some nice dialogue form some non-Catholic attendees and their perspective on our presentation. We actually had a godd interchange of dialogue.
Made some good contacts for the future. Possible interaction with the Deacon Group.
Talked to Lina afterwards and listened to her plea for assistance in getting more support for what she is trying to do at St. Aedan’s. She is a committee of one and needs help.. suggested she follow up with OUA. They should assist in this regard.
Lina was very pleased with our presentation and the number of people who showed up.
We left St. Aedan’s all in a good mood for a job well done.
When we arrived at Holy Family and congregated on the third floor for refreshments, we decided who would get up early to bike over to WDRC and tlak with Brad Davis and then proceed over to Senator Dodd’s office. Lou, Fr. Stephen, and Johnnie F would meet Charlie there at 7:30.
The rest of the crew would breakfast again at Holy Family after attending 7:00 mass. They would depart for the Capital and meet the others there.
Lou
BTC –Day 4 Journal – Manchester, St. Bridget’s to St. Timothy’s, West Hartford to Holy Family, West Hartford
BTC –Day 4 Journal – Manchester, St. Bridget’s to St. Timothy’s, West Hartford to Holy Family, West Hartford
We gathered at St. Bridget at 7:30. This was kind of reminiscent of our first day. We had 13 bikers riding his day. Kelley O’Shea from Court House, one of Lou’s spin teachers, joined us after being invited by Charlie and Lou. She borrowed Kelly’s riding jersey so she fit in perfectly. We also had John Rowe with us for the first time and this Patty’s first day this year as well.
Bill Shea was there again to take photos. It was so great getting ready to start again. Fr. Stephen couldn’t ride with us this morning. He had to work. He gave us a nice blessing to start the day. John Ryan also offered up a wonderful social justice prayer before we mounted up. It put all of us in the perfect mood. We were on our bikes rolling away around 8:15.
The ride to St. Timothy’s was relatively flat and everyone enjoyed it. We all stayed close together. Kelley seemed to really enjoy herself and we believe she is now hooked as part of this team. She’s got it and knows it is not about the bike.
We got to St. Timothy’s earlier than we expected, around 9:30. Bill Shea had just got there so he was able to take photos of us arriving. Timing is everything. We rested some and had bagels and juice before we greeted parishioners for the 10:30 mass. We were actually early enough to greet the 9:00 ma parishioners as they were leaving. We either handed them a slip of paper inviting them to the presentation after mass or verbally engaged them. Many were already aware of our visit. Good prior advertising thanks to Lou and Pat Piano’s efforts.
We were all actually surprised at the turnout thinking who would come around 12:00 to a presentation. We were pleasantly surprised. We all tried to speed things up and completed the presentation right at 53 minutes. Remember, every 53 minutes a child in the United States dies as a result of the causes of poverty.
We were engaged and totally into it. Our audience was also engaged. Pat Piano, the Pastoral Associate at St. Timothy’s has already agreed to have us back. We connected with Patty Moran’s husband’s cousin, Bobbi Moran, their Confirmation leaser to set a date in October. The cool thing is that Pat Piano wants to bike with us. I hope she does. She has real enthusiasm and a love for what she is doing. Pat was impressed with our presentation. I guess everyone was since we received our first standing ovation. Fr. Cody also was impressed. He thought our enthusiasm was exceptional and catching as Christianity should be.
We had a larger crowd than for any other presentation. We performed well and timely. It was ironic that the second reading today was so appropriate. “Whoever has much should not have more, whoever has little should not have less”.
We left St. Timothy’s with joyful hearts.
We decided to bike through Hartford on the streets you would not bike alone, Albany Ave., Park Street, etc. We all noticed the conditions of the streets. A fire cracker went off and some of us thought it was a gun shot. We did our best to engage with people. We got some waves, some thumbs up, some looks like why are you guys here. But it is always and eye opening ride.
We brainstormed as we rode. Kelley was already thinking of ways to do things for the future like meeting right there with those less fortunate. Like we said, she is hooked.
After we arrived at Holy Family we got into our circle and we all reflected and shared our impression of riding through Hartford. Really a powerful way to end the ride.’
We had a wonderful supper and celebrated Fr. Stephen’s 43 birthday with a cake from Mozzicato’s bakery in Hartford. His dad came to celebrate with him.
We went to the auditorium for the presentation. Not many showed up and Fr. Terry was a bit disappointed. He tried his best to get folks there. Oh well, sometimes that’s the way it is. We still conducted our presentation as always.
One of the few attendees was a priest from West Africa who came with Fr. Dennis. Fr. Peter approached Lou and said to him he was moved by our presentation talking about poverty in the US. He said it was strange to him because people who really live in poverty look to the United States as a place for hope because of our wealth. We could see his point.
After the presentation we gathered on the third floor for some refreshment as Italian cookies from Mossicato’s. Yummy! Also a little fresh fruit and some wine. We faith shared and discussed the next day’s ride.
Lou
We gathered at St. Bridget at 7:30. This was kind of reminiscent of our first day. We had 13 bikers riding his day. Kelley O’Shea from Court House, one of Lou’s spin teachers, joined us after being invited by Charlie and Lou. She borrowed Kelly’s riding jersey so she fit in perfectly. We also had John Rowe with us for the first time and this Patty’s first day this year as well.
Bill Shea was there again to take photos. It was so great getting ready to start again. Fr. Stephen couldn’t ride with us this morning. He had to work. He gave us a nice blessing to start the day. John Ryan also offered up a wonderful social justice prayer before we mounted up. It put all of us in the perfect mood. We were on our bikes rolling away around 8:15.
The ride to St. Timothy’s was relatively flat and everyone enjoyed it. We all stayed close together. Kelley seemed to really enjoy herself and we believe she is now hooked as part of this team. She’s got it and knows it is not about the bike.
We got to St. Timothy’s earlier than we expected, around 9:30. Bill Shea had just got there so he was able to take photos of us arriving. Timing is everything. We rested some and had bagels and juice before we greeted parishioners for the 10:30 mass. We were actually early enough to greet the 9:00 ma parishioners as they were leaving. We either handed them a slip of paper inviting them to the presentation after mass or verbally engaged them. Many were already aware of our visit. Good prior advertising thanks to Lou and Pat Piano’s efforts.
We were all actually surprised at the turnout thinking who would come around 12:00 to a presentation. We were pleasantly surprised. We all tried to speed things up and completed the presentation right at 53 minutes. Remember, every 53 minutes a child in the United States dies as a result of the causes of poverty.
We were engaged and totally into it. Our audience was also engaged. Pat Piano, the Pastoral Associate at St. Timothy’s has already agreed to have us back. We connected with Patty Moran’s husband’s cousin, Bobbi Moran, their Confirmation leaser to set a date in October. The cool thing is that Pat Piano wants to bike with us. I hope she does. She has real enthusiasm and a love for what she is doing. Pat was impressed with our presentation. I guess everyone was since we received our first standing ovation. Fr. Cody also was impressed. He thought our enthusiasm was exceptional and catching as Christianity should be.
We had a larger crowd than for any other presentation. We performed well and timely. It was ironic that the second reading today was so appropriate. “Whoever has much should not have more, whoever has little should not have less”.
We left St. Timothy’s with joyful hearts.
We decided to bike through Hartford on the streets you would not bike alone, Albany Ave., Park Street, etc. We all noticed the conditions of the streets. A fire cracker went off and some of us thought it was a gun shot. We did our best to engage with people. We got some waves, some thumbs up, some looks like why are you guys here. But it is always and eye opening ride.
We brainstormed as we rode. Kelley was already thinking of ways to do things for the future like meeting right there with those less fortunate. Like we said, she is hooked.
After we arrived at Holy Family we got into our circle and we all reflected and shared our impression of riding through Hartford. Really a powerful way to end the ride.’
We had a wonderful supper and celebrated Fr. Stephen’s 43 birthday with a cake from Mozzicato’s bakery in Hartford. His dad came to celebrate with him.
We went to the auditorium for the presentation. Not many showed up and Fr. Terry was a bit disappointed. He tried his best to get folks there. Oh well, sometimes that’s the way it is. We still conducted our presentation as always.
One of the few attendees was a priest from West Africa who came with Fr. Dennis. Fr. Peter approached Lou and said to him he was moved by our presentation talking about poverty in the US. He said it was strange to him because people who really live in poverty look to the United States as a place for hope because of our wealth. We could see his point.
After the presentation we gathered on the third floor for some refreshment as Italian cookies from Mossicato’s. Yummy! Also a little fresh fruit and some wine. We faith shared and discussed the next day’s ride.
Lou
BTC –Day 3 Journal – Newington, St. Mary’s to Willimantic, St. Joseph’s
BTC –Day 3 Journal – Newington, St. Mary’s to Willimantic, St. Joseph’s
After sleeping at our host families homes, we met at St. Mary’s at 8:30 to collect our bikes and get ready to start our ride to Willimantic and St. Joseph’s. We left around 9:00 and headed north toward Hartford.
On Stoddard Ave. we observed the destruction from yesterday’s storm. Downed trees and power lines were everywhere. We had to detour off our Cue Sheet but made it to the Foodshare Market by 9:50. At the Market we met with Don Scott who gave us a tour of the facility and explained the history and working of the market.
One of the most memorable things he mentioned was that they compete with other Foodshare operations through the Feeding America initiative to get desired goods. They actually have to bid using shares they are pre-awarded. It is sometimes very difficult to outbid areas like Chicago or New York because they have many more shares to bid with. However, Don mentioned there are ways to get around it. He also advised the the merchants at the Farmers market donate left over produce which is one of the ways they keep their facility stocked. They go through every produce shipment and discard any damaged goods. The damaged goods are saved and used for feeding pigs so nothing is wasted.
We left Foodshare around 10:30 and made our way to the MACC Soup Kitchen in Manchester. We had a very good lunch of chicken, pizza, egg noodles, and dessert. Lou and Joan had to leave for a family engagement but would join us later in Willimantic. They would be bringing the food (lasagna) for the Potluck dinner.
After lunch, Jackie Campion gave us a tour of the shelter and Self-Help Pantry. Jackie explained that the Shelter houses 40 residents, 30 men, 10 women. She further explained the merits of the self service pantry was to maintain the dignity of the clients. She proudly stated that MACC is able to provide service with only a staff of 14 and she is grateful for all the volunteers she has.
After the tour, we got back on our bikes and headed for Willimantic along route 6 through Bolton. As we got close to Bolton it started to rain and we again got wet on our ride. Still remembering that we will be dry and warm at the end of the day unlike those in poverty.
While biking on Route 6, we witnessed a tragic accident that had a grateful ending. As we rode past a house, a black dog ran across the street toward the lead bikers. The dog was hit a killed by oncoming traffic. One of the bikers drifted into the middle of the road wanting to be of aid to the dog, totally absorbed in the incident and unaware of the traffic. In the midst of this a tracker trailer truck was forced to jam on its breaks hard, smoke billowing from the brakes and fortunately stopped within a couple of feet of the biker. The skill of the driver of the truck prevented a multi-car, truck, bicycle accident.
We were all very much saddened by this experience. John Ryan and Jeanette crossed the road immediately to comfort the dog’s owner. When they returned we prayed together, some expressing their feelings, most were silent. We all believed God had a hand in driving the truck. We have mentally returned to the events and thanked God, prayed for the dog’s owner, the family, the people involved in the accident, the truck driver and ourselves.
When we arrived in Willimantic some of us visited the habitat for Humanity site that we had worked at.
When we entered St. Joseph’s, our first comments were what a beautiful church. After mass we offered a lasagna supper to those who were able to stay after mass. After supper we began our presentation basically to a family, the only ones who stayed. Our message was punctuated by loud claps of thunder and spectacular flashes of lightening.
We actually changed our presentation because of the wonderful interaction and dialogue of those participants. The father in attendance asked “what more can I do with my skills as a mechanic?” “How else can I help my neighbor who needs a ride to the grocery store?”
As we presented our PEDAL acronym we added some suggestions in the advocacy area. It is important to advocate for yourselves also. By contacting government representatives by phone, letter, or email, people can tell their stories. These stories provide real examples of people in need.
Although we only spoke with an extended family of 7 people, we learned much about their lives, their faith, and their hopes. It turned out to be another nice connection.
It was still raining and thunder storming out there when we finished our presentation. We had to load the bikes in the rain. There was a nice overhang at the door so we just cozied up the vehicles under the over hang and loaded the bikes. We also did the same for the family who stayed for the presentation.
Once everybody was loaded we headed back to Manchester to sleep and get ready for the next day.
Mike & Johnnie F
After sleeping at our host families homes, we met at St. Mary’s at 8:30 to collect our bikes and get ready to start our ride to Willimantic and St. Joseph’s. We left around 9:00 and headed north toward Hartford.
On Stoddard Ave. we observed the destruction from yesterday’s storm. Downed trees and power lines were everywhere. We had to detour off our Cue Sheet but made it to the Foodshare Market by 9:50. At the Market we met with Don Scott who gave us a tour of the facility and explained the history and working of the market.
One of the most memorable things he mentioned was that they compete with other Foodshare operations through the Feeding America initiative to get desired goods. They actually have to bid using shares they are pre-awarded. It is sometimes very difficult to outbid areas like Chicago or New York because they have many more shares to bid with. However, Don mentioned there are ways to get around it. He also advised the the merchants at the Farmers market donate left over produce which is one of the ways they keep their facility stocked. They go through every produce shipment and discard any damaged goods. The damaged goods are saved and used for feeding pigs so nothing is wasted.
We left Foodshare around 10:30 and made our way to the MACC Soup Kitchen in Manchester. We had a very good lunch of chicken, pizza, egg noodles, and dessert. Lou and Joan had to leave for a family engagement but would join us later in Willimantic. They would be bringing the food (lasagna) for the Potluck dinner.
After lunch, Jackie Campion gave us a tour of the shelter and Self-Help Pantry. Jackie explained that the Shelter houses 40 residents, 30 men, 10 women. She further explained the merits of the self service pantry was to maintain the dignity of the clients. She proudly stated that MACC is able to provide service with only a staff of 14 and she is grateful for all the volunteers she has.
After the tour, we got back on our bikes and headed for Willimantic along route 6 through Bolton. As we got close to Bolton it started to rain and we again got wet on our ride. Still remembering that we will be dry and warm at the end of the day unlike those in poverty.
While biking on Route 6, we witnessed a tragic accident that had a grateful ending. As we rode past a house, a black dog ran across the street toward the lead bikers. The dog was hit a killed by oncoming traffic. One of the bikers drifted into the middle of the road wanting to be of aid to the dog, totally absorbed in the incident and unaware of the traffic. In the midst of this a tracker trailer truck was forced to jam on its breaks hard, smoke billowing from the brakes and fortunately stopped within a couple of feet of the biker. The skill of the driver of the truck prevented a multi-car, truck, bicycle accident.
We were all very much saddened by this experience. John Ryan and Jeanette crossed the road immediately to comfort the dog’s owner. When they returned we prayed together, some expressing their feelings, most were silent. We all believed God had a hand in driving the truck. We have mentally returned to the events and thanked God, prayed for the dog’s owner, the family, the people involved in the accident, the truck driver and ourselves.
When we arrived in Willimantic some of us visited the habitat for Humanity site that we had worked at.
When we entered St. Joseph’s, our first comments were what a beautiful church. After mass we offered a lasagna supper to those who were able to stay after mass. After supper we began our presentation basically to a family, the only ones who stayed. Our message was punctuated by loud claps of thunder and spectacular flashes of lightening.
We actually changed our presentation because of the wonderful interaction and dialogue of those participants. The father in attendance asked “what more can I do with my skills as a mechanic?” “How else can I help my neighbor who needs a ride to the grocery store?”
As we presented our PEDAL acronym we added some suggestions in the advocacy area. It is important to advocate for yourselves also. By contacting government representatives by phone, letter, or email, people can tell their stories. These stories provide real examples of people in need.
Although we only spoke with an extended family of 7 people, we learned much about their lives, their faith, and their hopes. It turned out to be another nice connection.
It was still raining and thunder storming out there when we finished our presentation. We had to load the bikes in the rain. There was a nice overhang at the door so we just cozied up the vehicles under the over hang and loaded the bikes. We also did the same for the family who stayed for the presentation.
Once everybody was loaded we headed back to Manchester to sleep and get ready for the next day.
Mike & Johnnie F
BTC –Day 2 Journal – Canaan, St. Joseph’s to Newington, St. Mary’s
BTC –Day 2 Journal – Canaan, St. Joseph’s to Newington, St. Mary’s
We woke up at our respective host families’ homes and got ready to journey over to St. Joseph’s for 7:30 mass. Pam had to get up extra early as she had to get to her last day of school (1/2 day). She left round 5:30 in the morning and would join us later in the day around 12:00 noon to ride. She can’t wait.
Mass at St. Joseph’s was very nice. A small gathering of parishioners and the team. Fr. Stephen co-celebrated with Fr. Jeffries. After mass, we ventured downstairs to the church basement to a wonderful breakfast of bagels, quiche, banana bread, sticky buns, etc. It’s funny how good you eat on these rides. We have so much yet we speak of those who have so little. We are so fortunate that we get a warm bed, hot shower, and a roof over our heads with plenty of food. A contrast to those who do not have those luxuries, We thank God each day for what we have.
After breakfast we bid Fr. Jeffries goodbye and thanked him for all he did to make our visit so pleasant. We went to Immaculate conception to pick up our bikes, pump up our tires, filled up our water bottles with water and Gatorade.
We began our ride going up the hill we came down to get to Immaculate. A bit tough to star the day, an uphill climb. But those in poverty have an uphill climb everyday. We were only doing this for a short time.
Our route for today’s ride was changed but the result made the ride a lot easier. Much downhill with just a couple of cool uphills. We enjoyed the ride very much except when it began to rain. In fact, it poured. We were all cold and wet and had to be extra careful especially going downhill. Again we could relate to the poor who live in this kind of weather routinely with no roof over their heads, no warm showers, we knew we would be warm and comfortable by days end. About 30 miles into the ride the sun came out and the day became a scorcher. Everyone put on sunscreen, even Lou. Pam joined us after going the wrong way on route 10. She met us at the Subway in Farmington. We do happen to eat from Subway quite often. ‘
We all rode to Newington to St. Mary’s together. A nice ride but we did have a doosie of a hill before getting there. We actually arrived at St. Mary’s an hour and a half early. Lucky for us because a powerful thunderstorm, possible tornado, hit the area while we were setting up our presentation and getting ready for supper. Thunder, lightening, hail stones. Wow! We lost power. Trees and branches were down. We heard stories of big trees crushing a couple of houses in Wethersfield.
When we first got to St. Mary’s some of the team spotted this little biker coming up the driveway. He was struggling to get up the hill. Lou immediately recognized his Grandson, Noah, and got back on his bike, forgetting about his sore butt, and rode down to greet him. It was a bit adventurous as Noah kept coming right at Lou. Lou felt he had to turn off to avoid Noah but Noah turn off in the same direction. Lou had to hit his brakes, couldn’t get out of his clips and hit the deck. His shifters got bent a bit and his front tire didn’t roll smoothly. Noah wanted to ride his bike with Grandpa. “Come on Grandpa, let’s race!” Lou did his best to fix his front wheel and biked with Noah for the next ½ hour.
The team went to their respective host families homes to shower before coming back here for the presentation. Lou and Joan and Fr. Stephen stayed at the rectory. Lou and Joan got to sleep in the pastor’s bedroom.
Fr. Dennis got out boxes of votive candles to use for light. The parishioners prepared the supper using Sterno. We all ate by candle light. When it cam time for the presentation, we did it in the dark. No slides tonight. Everyone knew heir part and the presentation went smoothly. Almost perfect. I guess everyone stepped up a bit because of the situation. It was a bit special doing so by candle light and flashlight. Fr. Dennis brought it all together when he compared all the candles to the light of Christ. Seemed so true this evening.
The food was fantastic, more than we could eat. And desserts galore. Everyone was so pleasant and nice to us. It is so amazing how people open their homes and their hearts to complete strangers all for a good cause. Seems there is something biblical here. Thank you all!!!
Lou’s son came to the presentation tonight. Made it special for Lou. His son, Thad , was impressed with our presentation and actually was quite moved by it.
We did good tonight.
We woke up at our respective host families’ homes and got ready to journey over to St. Joseph’s for 7:30 mass. Pam had to get up extra early as she had to get to her last day of school (1/2 day). She left round 5:30 in the morning and would join us later in the day around 12:00 noon to ride. She can’t wait.
Mass at St. Joseph’s was very nice. A small gathering of parishioners and the team. Fr. Stephen co-celebrated with Fr. Jeffries. After mass, we ventured downstairs to the church basement to a wonderful breakfast of bagels, quiche, banana bread, sticky buns, etc. It’s funny how good you eat on these rides. We have so much yet we speak of those who have so little. We are so fortunate that we get a warm bed, hot shower, and a roof over our heads with plenty of food. A contrast to those who do not have those luxuries, We thank God each day for what we have.
After breakfast we bid Fr. Jeffries goodbye and thanked him for all he did to make our visit so pleasant. We went to Immaculate conception to pick up our bikes, pump up our tires, filled up our water bottles with water and Gatorade.
We began our ride going up the hill we came down to get to Immaculate. A bit tough to star the day, an uphill climb. But those in poverty have an uphill climb everyday. We were only doing this for a short time.
Our route for today’s ride was changed but the result made the ride a lot easier. Much downhill with just a couple of cool uphills. We enjoyed the ride very much except when it began to rain. In fact, it poured. We were all cold and wet and had to be extra careful especially going downhill. Again we could relate to the poor who live in this kind of weather routinely with no roof over their heads, no warm showers, we knew we would be warm and comfortable by days end. About 30 miles into the ride the sun came out and the day became a scorcher. Everyone put on sunscreen, even Lou. Pam joined us after going the wrong way on route 10. She met us at the Subway in Farmington. We do happen to eat from Subway quite often. ‘
We all rode to Newington to St. Mary’s together. A nice ride but we did have a doosie of a hill before getting there. We actually arrived at St. Mary’s an hour and a half early. Lucky for us because a powerful thunderstorm, possible tornado, hit the area while we were setting up our presentation and getting ready for supper. Thunder, lightening, hail stones. Wow! We lost power. Trees and branches were down. We heard stories of big trees crushing a couple of houses in Wethersfield.
When we first got to St. Mary’s some of the team spotted this little biker coming up the driveway. He was struggling to get up the hill. Lou immediately recognized his Grandson, Noah, and got back on his bike, forgetting about his sore butt, and rode down to greet him. It was a bit adventurous as Noah kept coming right at Lou. Lou felt he had to turn off to avoid Noah but Noah turn off in the same direction. Lou had to hit his brakes, couldn’t get out of his clips and hit the deck. His shifters got bent a bit and his front tire didn’t roll smoothly. Noah wanted to ride his bike with Grandpa. “Come on Grandpa, let’s race!” Lou did his best to fix his front wheel and biked with Noah for the next ½ hour.
The team went to their respective host families homes to shower before coming back here for the presentation. Lou and Joan and Fr. Stephen stayed at the rectory. Lou and Joan got to sleep in the pastor’s bedroom.
Fr. Dennis got out boxes of votive candles to use for light. The parishioners prepared the supper using Sterno. We all ate by candle light. When it cam time for the presentation, we did it in the dark. No slides tonight. Everyone knew heir part and the presentation went smoothly. Almost perfect. I guess everyone stepped up a bit because of the situation. It was a bit special doing so by candle light and flashlight. Fr. Dennis brought it all together when he compared all the candles to the light of Christ. Seemed so true this evening.
The food was fantastic, more than we could eat. And desserts galore. Everyone was so pleasant and nice to us. It is so amazing how people open their homes and their hearts to complete strangers all for a good cause. Seems there is something biblical here. Thank you all!!!
Lou’s son came to the presentation tonight. Made it special for Lou. His son, Thad , was impressed with our presentation and actually was quite moved by it.
We did good tonight.
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