Hundreds Attend Groton Community Services Fair

Hundreds attended the annual Community Services Fair in Groton Wednesday, where 67 vendors and agencies - from Groton Parks and Recreation to the AARP - set up booths to talk to residents.

"This is one of the best fairs in the state," said Mary Klingler, of the gathering. Klingler, a volunteer for AARP's driver safety program, was spreading the word about a 4-hour safe driving class that comes with a two-year insurance discount.

The Community Service Fair included information about topics like health care, insurance, state programs, nutrition and legal services.

Vendors included municipal departments like Groton Human Services, businesses like Groton-based Community Hearing Aids of Connecticut, and health agencies, legal services, pharmacies, nursing homes and banks.

"We've had at least 100 people talking about Medicare issues," said Nancy Krodel, of Senior Resources, the area agency on aging.

Other vendors said said they had 80 visitors or more.

Ed Kolar, of Groton, checked out a chair that helps lift people with joint problems from sitting to standing, while is wife, Jeanne Kolar, signed up to try to win a $25 gift certificate.

"I've had access to these (fairs) in the past, and I really appreciate them," he said.

"Excellent," said Irene Graham, of Groton, summing up the day.  "People were very nice. They said they had a good time, and that's the main thing."