At Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital
DERBY - As people plan to spend time in the sun this summer, Griffin Hospital is raising skin cancer awareness and helping protect individuals with a series of free skin cancer screenings.

The screenings will be held from 4-7 p.m. June 5, July 17 and Aug. 8 at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital, 350 Seymour Ave.

According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. It accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States.
More than 3.5 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed in this country each year.
Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, will account for more than 76,600 cases of skin cancer in 2013.

Risk factors for non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers include:
• Unprotected and/or excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (sunlight or tanning booths)
• Pale skin (easily sunburned, doesn’t tan much or at all, natural red or blond hair)
• Occupational exposures to coal tar, pitch, creosote, arsenic compounds, or radium
• You or other members of your family have had skin cancers
• Multiple or unusual moles
• Severe sunburns in the past
Skin cancer can be found and treated early by looking for these symptoms:
• Any change on your skin, especially in the size or color of a mole, growth, or spot, or a new growth (even if it has no color)
• Scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or a change in the way a bump or nodule looks
• The spread of pigmentation (color) beyond its border, such as dark coloring that spreads past the edge of a mole or mark
• A change in sensation, such as itchiness, tenderness, or pain

If you have any of these symptoms, call you doctor immediately or visit www.griffinhealth.org to find a local dermatologist.
Some symptoms are not as noticeable, so skin cancer screenings are advised. To reserve a screening appointment, call 203-732-1280.


This information is taken from a press release from Griffin Hospital.

DERBY -  The Derby Public Library welcomes Rob Novak, Jr.,  local historian, at 6:30 p.m. June 17 to discuss Yesterday’s Headlines.
 Novak has specialized in presenting local history in fun, interactive formats for both general and specialized audiences for more than 20 years. He is past director of the Derby Historical Society

and City of Shelton’s Municipal Historian.
              In addition, he has authored four books through Arcadia Publications, and has been a popular historical columnist.
             Participants will be taken back to 1913, 1938, and 1963 to see what was happening locally 100, 75, and 50 years ago in the Valley.
            Registration is requested. For information, stop by the Library, 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

Senator to record meals, observations

WASHINGTON—This week, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, D-Connecticut, will live on a food stamp budget to better understand how the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) works on a personal level. 

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy

For one week, starting today, Murphy will live on the average state food stamp benefit. 

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers the Food Stamp Program, the average monthly benefit in Connecticut is $143.89 per family member, which is $4.80 per day or $1.60 per meal.

“427,000 people in Connecticut rely on SNAP benefits to feed themselves and their families,” said Murphy. 

“Spending some time living on this budget gives policymakers a firsthand look at the realities of maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet on an extremely limited budget. It’s not easy, but it’s important for people in Washington to understand what our constituents who rely on SNAP face every day. Some lawmakers have proposed steep, damaging cuts to SNAP as part of the Farm Bill here in Congress, and we owe it our constituents to face up to the reality of those cuts.”

SNAP is the country’s most important anti-hunger program. 

As of January of 2013, there were 427,000 Connecticut residents in the program, or 12 percent of the state’s population. 

Nearly 61 percent of SNAP participants are in families with children, and more than 33 percent of SNAP participants are in families with elderly or disabled members. About 33 percent of SNAP participants are in working families.  

Murphy will keep track of his meals and post observations throughout the week via Twitter and Facebook.  

This post is taken from a press release from Murphy's office.

Proceeds will benefit Seymour youth sports and Land Trust.


This information is taken from a press release from First Selectman Kurt Miller's office.

SEYMOUR - The soccer camp to be held in July will offer basic technical and tactical training for the youth player in an environment that is challenging and enjoyable. 

The curriculum is designed to teach common skills and individual and team strategies from beginners to intermediate players.

Each camp session taught by Academica Futbol Club (AFC), which has a professional premier staff.
Fee includes ball and T-shirt; $10 discount given for second child registered.

The camp will be held July 15-19 at the Seymour Middle School lower field.

Mini Kicks:  $90 - ages 4-6       
Half Day:  $125  - ages 6-16 
Full Day:  $175 - ages 8-16

Sign up now to ensure enrollment at: www.academicafc.net.

This information is taken from a press release. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro, D-3, released the following statement today on the passing of Middletown Press Managing Editor Ann DeMatteo.

"Ann was a remarkable woman who we have lost much too soon. Ann demonstrated a unique courage as she shared her own battle with cancer with her many readers, making her columns a beloved feature. 

"She informed, inspired and encouraged many of us to become more involved with our communities. Ann touched the lives of many and she will be deeply missed by all of those fortunate enough to have known her."



This post is taken from a press release from DeLauro's office.

Derby Historical Society President Tim Dillon, right, speaks Sunday with Melissa Coury, an art and antique appraiser, at the dedication of a portrait of naval hero Commodore Isaac Hull.
The oil painting now hangs in the Gen. David Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., Ansonia.

Humphreys was a Revolutionary War hero, aide-de-camp to Gen. George Washington, ambassador to Spain, and later a successful businessman in what is present-day Seymour.


An anonymous donor presented the portrait of Commodore Hull to the Derby Historical Society, which is based at the Humphreys House.

Dillon said the historical society thrives because of the "many, many generous donors," and volunteers who make it a success. We're gratified (the donor) has donated the painting to us."


Coury, a New Haven resident, said, "I was very pleased to work with this painting."
She talked about a variety of "clues" she found in the portrait that have led her to believe it was painted in 1805-1806.

"This is what (Hull) looked like when he left town for the Navy," Coury said.

Close-up of the oil painting

The portrait was professionally cleaned, Coury said, and the gold-leaf frame was touched up. The artist is unknown.

Hull was born in Derby in 1773 and learned nautical skills from his sea captain father.
Read more about the background of the portrait it in an article on the Electronic Valley.

Commodore Hull commanded the U.S. frigate, the Constitution. He and his crew were victorious over the British frigate, the Guerriere, in a major battle during the War of 1812 and Hull was hailed as a hero.

DERBY - Griffin Hospital welcomes Rishi Ramlogan, MD as the new Medical Director of its Bariatric Surgery Program, Griffin Bariatrics.

Dr. Ramlogan

Ramlogan, who is board certified by the American Board of Surgery, brings extensive experience working at three Bariatric Centers of Excellence to his new position.

He will be treating patients with a broad range of bariatric, laparoscopic and general surgery concerns.
His special areas of interest include laparoscopic gastric bypass, gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, revisional bariatric procedures, hernia surgery and anti-reflux surgery.

Ramlogan received his Medical Degree from the University of the West Indies, and completed his internship and began residency in general surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine Cabrini program in Manhattan.
He was named both “Most Outstanding Intern” and “Most Outstanding Resident” in the Mount Sinai/Cabrini program.
Ramlogan completed his general surgery residency training at the New York Medical College Sound Shore Program, where he went on to serve as chief resident.
In 2011, he completed a fellowship in advanced laparoscopy and bariatric surgery at Danbury Hospital.

As Medical Director of Griffin Hospital’s Bariatric Surgery Program, Ramlogan will regularly present free weight loss surgery seminars offered throughout the region to help prospective patients learn about their options and make informed choices.
He also will be participating in a number of Griffin Bariatrics workshops, support groups, and outreach activities, including the monthly Griffin Bariatrics “On Track” workshops, held on the third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. – noon at the Hewitt Ambulatory Care Pavilion, 350 Seymour Ave.

Ramlogan is currently seeing new patients, as well as follow up and revisional bariatric surgery patients, at his office at 67 Maple Ave.
For information or to schedule an appointment, call 203-732-1475 or visit griffinhospitalbariatrics.com.


This information is taken from a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro, D-3 released the following statement this morning on the Connecticut train collision:

"I have spoken with Transportation Secretary LaHood, Governor Malloy, Mayor Finch and other officials throughout the weekend. 

"We must work swiftly to ensure appropriate resources get to Connecticut so we can determine the cause and get train service running again. No one should have to worry their commute is going to send them to the hospital. 

"My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected and many thanks go out to the brave first responders who are at their best when we need them the most." 

This post is taken from a press release from DeLauro's office. 

I guess you could call this a mystery photo!

He inflates and deflates, and I thought he was kinda creepy. I never really warmed up to clowns.




Hint: I took this when I was visiting Dad's Food Truck. 

Ceremony planned at Humphreys House 

ANSONIA - The Derby Historical Society invites the public for the announcement this Sunday of the addition of a portrait of Commodore Isaac Hull (c. 1798-1804) to the Society's museum collection.

Isaac Hull

A brief dedication ceremony will be held at 1:30 pm. at the Gen. David Humphreys House, 37 Elm St.

Refreshments will be served. 
This event is free to the public; donations are accepted and appreciated.

Sunday tours will also be held on this date, from 2 – 4 p.m.  Feel free to inquire about a tour after the ceremony.

The Derby Historical Society is a regional historical society dedicated to preserving, maintaining and celebrating the rich and varied history of the Lower Naugatuck Valley.

Staff offices are located at the Sarah Riggs Humphreys House, 37 Elm St.


Note: Re-posting this announcement as a reminder for local history buffs.  It promises to be an interesting event.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rosa L. DeLauro, D-3, released the following statement in response to the release of the first comprehensive report on children’s mental health in the United States. 

The report, issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, noted the prevalence of mental health disorders in kids has been increasing, with up to 20 percent of kids experiencing a mental disorder each year.

“This report should serve as a call to action – we cannot continue to under-invest in public health programs and health services that ensure all children have access to the care they need.

"When up to 20 percent of kids in the U.S. are affected by a mental disorder each year, we simply must do better.  That includes investing in the CDC and ensuring that these kids have access to the health care services they need.”

DeLauro is the senior Democrat on the subcommittee responsible for funding the CDC. 

See her additional comments on funding for CDC and other health care agencies here. 

Additional information on the CDC report may be found here.

This information is taken from a press release from DeLauro's office.

SHELTON - The Shelton Historical Society will be among many attractions taking part in Connecticut Open House Day June 8.

Visitors will enjoy seeing the six historic structures at the complex, 70 Ripton Road, and have an opportunity to learn and earn at several stations from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those who complete all activities will earn a surprise.

The event is free and open to the public.

For information,  call 203-925-1803 or visit www.sheltonhistoricalsociety.org.

Connecticut Open House Day is an annual event scheduled the second Saturday of

June, where cultural organizations and tourism attractions throughout the state open their

doors to Connecticut residents, inviting them to discover – and rediscover –Connecticut’s

fascinating world of art, history, film and tourism with a variety of special visitor

incentives. 

The unique one-day event is part of a broad state initiative that began in 2005.

It is coordinated by the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism (www.CTvisit.com).

This post is taken from a press release.

By Patricia Villers
pvillers@nhregister.com / Twitter: @nhrvalley

Corinna Martin

ANSONIA — West Haven resident Corinna Martin, mother of Alyssiah Marie Wiley, who has been missing since April 20, continued her search here Wednesday.

Martin and several volunteers were interviewed by the media in the parking lot of the Big Y supermarket on Main Street. They passed out fliers and talked about Wiley, 20, who was last seen in the Bridgeport area.

“We’re asking people in the community to keep their eyes and ears open,” Martin said. “This is our fourth trip to Ansonia. The police told me to talk to neighbors on Hubbell Avenue,” Martin said, which she did.

“We want to keep awareness heightened,” she said. “Fortunately for us, when we talk to people it jogs memories.”
Volunteer Kathleen Ceccarelli said a private volunteer search and rescue organization Tuesday brought search dogs to Coe Pond, which is behind Hubbell Avenue.

Family and friends have also searched in Bridgeport.

Martin said at 4:30 p.m. Saturday there will be an awareness prayer march starting at the Beardsley Park entrance behind the zoo.

The march will proceed in the Beardsley Park neighborhood.

Refreshments will be provided courtesy of Gateway Community College, she said.

Martin said Winkle Bus Co. will provide transportation. A bus will leave at 3 p.m. from the Elks Club in New Haven, she said, and from Shop-Rite supermarket, 1131 Campbell Ave., West Haven, at 3:30 p.m.
“I have 103 confirmed and I expect at least 150 or more as the word gets out,” she said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Connecticut State Police Missing Person Clearinghouse at 860-685-8190.

“The family is offering a substantial-sized reward for accurate information on her whereabouts that leads to her safe return home,” Martin said.

She was joined by Hamden resident Lashay Saunders, who has been helping with the search and distributing fliers, Ceccarelli and her daughter, Kate Ceccarelli, a former college roommate of Wiley.

Saunders said although she doesn’t know Wiley, “I’ve grown very close to her mom.”

HAMDEN - Two students from the Valley are among those who will graduate at the top of their class on Sunday when Quinnipiac University holds its 82^nd undergraduate commencement exercises during two outdoor ceremonies on the Mount Carmel Campus, 275 Mount Carmel Ave.

Ikechukwu E. Umeugo of Ansonia, will receive both the President’s Scholarship Award for being one of four students to have the highest grade point average in the graduating class.
He also will receive the Alumni Association’s Academic Achievement Award for having the highest grade point average in the School of Business. 
Umeugo will be among the 734 students who will graduate at the 10 a.m. commencement ceremony for students in the School of Business and College of Arts and Sciences. Jessica Jackley, the founder and former chief marketing officer of KIVA, a microlending site, will deliver the commencement address and receive an honorary degree.  
James McGlothlin, chairman and CEO of The United Co., also will receive an honorary degree.

Samantha L. Barracca of Seymour, will receive the Alumni Association’s Academic Achievement Award for having the highest grade point average in the School of Communications. She will be among the 776 students who will graduate at the 3 p.m. commencement ceremony for students in the School of Communications, School of Health Sciences and School of Nursing.  
Josh Elliott of “Good Morning America” will deliver the commencement address and receive an honorary degree.
 

        Quinnipiac enrolls 6,200 full-time undergraduate and 2,300 graduate students in 58 undergraduate and more than 20 graduate programs of study in its School of Business and Engineering, School of Communications, School of Education, School of Health Sciences, School of Law, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, School of Nursing and College of Arts and Sciences. 

Quinnipiac consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the North in U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Colleges issue. 

For information, visit www.quinnipiac.edu. Connect with Quinnipiac on Facebook at www.facebook.com/quinnipiacuniversity and follow Quinnipiac on Twitter @QuinnipiacU.



This post is taken from a press release.

SHELTON - The Shelton Historical Society will present Tales of Old Shelton at 1 p.m. June 2 at Plumb Memorial Library, 65 Wooster St.

The presentation will be given by Marty Coughlin, president of both the Historical Society and the Long Hill Burying Ground Association.

It is based on his research and discoveries about some of the early and noteworthy families whose members are buried in Long Hill Burying Ground, the oldest existing cemetery in town.

Refreshments will be available. The $5 admission benefits programs of the Shelton History Center, a complex with six historic structures at 70 Ripton Road.

For information, visit www.sheltonhistoricalsociety.org or call 203-925-1803.

Event to benefit Friends of Fisher House

SEYMOUR - The Knights of Columbus Aurora Council #53 will host a “Talent Show to Support Veterans” Sept. 20 and 21 at the Strand Theater, 165 Main St.,
The show will benefit the Friends of Fisher House Connecticut. 

   
This local chapter of the national organization, Fisher House Foundation, is raising funds to construct a house on the property of the VA Medical Center in West Haven to provide housing to families of veterans going into the hospital. 

At this time, auditions for the show are being accepted via e-mail at fhtalentshow@gmail.com. Auditions will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. 
Talent of all ages is welcome to audition. 
For information contact Jim Cronin, 203-881-8557.

Deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. May 26. You will be notified by June 9 if you are selected to participate and your position in the showcase will be determined by June 30.


This information is taken from a press release. 

SEYMOUR - The Seymour Democratic Town Committee is seeking candidates for the municipal elections in the fall of 2013.  

Anyone interested should contact Steven P. Kulas at 203-881-8390. 

There will be a special meeting of the Democratic Town Committee at 7 p.m. May 29 in the Norma Drummer room in Town Hall. 

All Democrats are invited to attend. 

This post is taken from a press release.

DERBY - The CT Works Career Coach returns to the Derby Public Library from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 14.

During both the morning session, 10 a.m.-noon, and the afternoon session, 1-3 p.m. , instructors will be offering Job Search Assistance.
Learn where to look for jobs, how to get the job you want, and how to search for jobs on the Internet.

           The workshop is free and open to the public. Registration is requested; walk-ins will be welcomed on a first come, first served basis.

          The CT Works Career Coach is a project of The WorkPlace, Inc. operated by Career Resources.

          For information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203- 736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

State Sen. Rob Kane

Sen. Rob Kane, R-Watertown, Tuesday proposed a measure in the state Senate which would make public the names and addresses of those who are found guilty of gun crimes in Connecticut.
Under current law, only public safety officials have access to this information.

“The state’s sex offender registry is available for all to see,” Kane said. “It’s one of the most visited and useful state websites. People want to know who their neighbors are.
"The sex offender registry has bolstered public safety and has given parents and families key information to make educated decisions.”

The state’s sex offender registry can be accessed by visiting
www.communitynotification.com.

“By the same token, the public should be able to know where violent felons who have committed crimes with guns live,” Kane said.
“A gun felon registry would accomplish that goal. Right now, the public is in the dark. Why are we protecting these felons? People should be able to find out if someone who has committed an offense with a deadly weapon is living in their neighborhood. This is about transparency.”

The proposal was defeated by the state Senate on a party line vote.


Kane's 10-town district includes Seymour and Oxford.

 
This post is taken from a press release.

SEYMOUR - The Great Hill United Methodist Church Drama Team will present a “Biblical

Review” June 1 in Fellowship Hall, 225 Great Hill Road. 
 

           A free pasta dinner will be provided at 6 p.m., followed by the “Review” at 7 p.m.

The “Review” will feature drama, comedy, and musical drama with a message for the whole family. All are invited to watch a variety of skits and mini-plays.

The church is located at the junction of Routes 188 and 334.
For information contact the church office, 203-888-9425, or Spike, 203-828-8652.

This information is taken from a press release.

ANSONIA - A new sign outside the Ansonia Middle School auditorium honors the late Superintendent of Schools and Ansonia native Dr. Richard F. Nicolari, who died in 2011.

A dedication ceremony will be held in June.

Visit Bungay, Chatfield-LoPresti schools

Bungay School Principal Mary Sue Feige, far left, speaks to middle school ambassadors. 

SEYMOUR - On Tuesday 15 Student Ambassadors from Seymour Middle School traveled to Bungay and Chatfield-Lopresti Elementary Schools to speak to fifth graders about transitioning to the middle school next year.  

Seymour Middle School students applied and were selected to represent their school for this yearly program.

Students spoke about different aspects of middle school life from classes to enrichment activities.  

Ambassadors also took questions from the fifth graders to help prepare them for the transition.  

This information and photo were taken from a press release from Bungay School.  

MILFORD - The Milford Lions Club will present the third Annual Charity Car Show from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 9 at CT Merritt Corporate Woods, 612 Wheelers Farm Road.
Rain date is June 23. 

The show is sponsored by Stevens Ford in coordination with Connecticut Seaport Car Club.

It will feature food, music, raffle prizes and trophies. All show cars and special interest vehicles are welcome. 

There will be goodie bags and dash plaques for the first 100 cars. 
Entry fee is $12 per show car. Pre-registration fee is $10 (no cutoff year).

Spectator fee is $5 a person; children under 5 admitted free.

For information call 203-641-2290, or go to http://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/milfordct/

for a pre-registration form and flyer.


This post is taken from a press release from Milford Lions Club.

System would aid law enforcement

HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, Tuesday voted with a unanimous state Senate for a bill to create a Blue Alert System in Connecticut. 

Crisco said the initiative would establish an important tool to help residents assist law enforcement personnel working to apprehend dangerous suspects.

With enactment, Connecticut would join at least 15 other states that already have Blue Alert laws, including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. Crisco said comparable legislation is also pending in several other states.

“The recent episode in Boston, after the tragic Patriot’s Day bombing, underscores how helpful the public can be in identifying suspected criminals,” Crisco said. 
“This Blue Alert system would function the same way the state’s existing Amber and Silver Alert systems already do, for missing children and senior citizens, respectively.”

A Blue Alert would notify the public of possible danger after a law enforcement officer has been killed, seriously injured, or missing, and a suspect, considered an imminent threat, is at large, Crisco explained. 

Further, it would solicit the public's assistance in apprehending the suspect by providing identifying features of the suspect, such as license plate information or his or her last known whereabouts.

“Just last month members of the public played an important role in helping bring into custody an armed and dangerous suspect,” Crisco said.
 “This bill, should it become law, would put one more public safety tool at the disposal of those with the solemn responsibility for providing public safety.”

Crisco said the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection will develop and implement policies and procedures for operating and administering the system, including procedures governing requests by law enforcement agencies to activate the system, guidelines to ensure that the dissemination of information does not compromise the investigation, or violate the privacy of the peace officer who is the subject of the alert.

Tuesday’s Senate vote represents final legislation action on the measure. House Bill 6007 now advances to the governor’s desk for his consideration and potential signature.


This post is taken from a press release from Crisco's office. 

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will offer a basic-level Soft Touch workshop from noon to 3 p.m. June 29.
The workshop is free and open to the public.

Soft Touch is a therapeutic, relaxing and gentle rub that can be given to an individual's hands, feet, or back.
Griffin Hospital offers the therapy to patients and their caregivers as a way to reduce their anxiety, pain and stress.

Taught by a Griffin Hospital nurse who is also a licensed massage therapist, this basic-level training includes a demonstration of various Soft Touch techniques as well as opportunity for hands-on practice.
Space is limited; early registration is required.
Workshop participants may register by contacting Tricia Brister at 203-732-7555 or at tbrister@griffinhealth.org.

The hospital is at 130 Division St.


This information is taken from a press release.

State Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, said a bill approved Tuesday by the House of Representatives is a first step toward requiring publishers to offer electronic books, or e-books, for sale at a reasonable cost to libraries.

Passed by a unanimous vote, House Bill 5614 calls for the commissioner of Consumer Protection to conduct a study of the availability of e-books to users of public libraries.

 

“I would have liked to see this issue resolved this year, but publishers have concerns and the study will help us target those concerns,” Conroy said. 

“We want to make sure libraries remain a hub of free information – whether on paper or on a Kindle.”

 

Through either purchases or donations, libraries for years have been able to acquire printed materials rather easily. As more and more reading content is being delivered digitally, however, libraries are struggling increasingly to obtain digital content.

 

The Connecticut Library Association says the problem is that some publishers are making it difficult for libraries to purchase e-books by imposing unfair restrictions, which include price gouging, lending restrictions and in some cases outright refusal to license e-books to libraries.

 

The e-book study now goes to the Senate for action. 

This information is taken from a press release from Conroy's office. 

Playground built in memory of Sandy Hook victim; dedication set

ANSONIA - It has been almost two weeks since the start of construction of a playground at John G. Prendergast School in memory of Catherine Violet Hubbard.
She was a first grader who was among the 26 victims of the Dec. 14 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown.

Even though my colleague and staff photographer Peter Hvizdak was there I took several photos, because I planned to write a blog post. But I've had trouble starting it.

I had the honor to speak briefly with Catherine's mother, Jenny Hubbard, and to say hello to three other mothers whose children died on that horrific day.

Jenny Hubbard said she takes life "day by day."

She said she was glad her son, Frederick, 8, was able to play a big part in the playground construction. He was even named job foreman that day.

"He's doing it for his sister," she said softly.

Frederick Hubbard, 8, was more than ready that morning to start building the playground.

 

Ansonia Superintendent of Schools Carol Merlone, left, greets mothers of victims. 

Prendergast art teacher Danine Curtis draped a green and white paper-heart chain along the fence. Green and white are Newtown's colors.  

 

 Workers get ready for the build.

The playground is one of 26 that will be built in memory of the victims through the efforts of Bill Lavin, president of the New Jersey Firefighters’ Mutual Benevolent Association. He is being assisted by fellow firefighters, construction workers, family and friends.

This is the specially labeled truck that carried construction supplies from New Jersey.

 Frederick was still working hard with firefighters and other volunteers mid-afternoon.

 A ground covering will be added to the play area.

The official dedication of the playground has been tentatively set for 9 a.m. May 31, Principal Joe Apicella said.

Apicella joined the many volunteers and worked for hours that day to get the play area together.

He said a tire swing is on back order and will be a part of the playground.
 

Event Saturday is rain or shine 
DERBY - Spooner House invites walkers and runners to the Derby Greenway on Saturday starting at 9 a.m. (rain or shine) to take part in the 16th annual Walk for the Hungry and Homeless.  

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and walkers may begin whenever they arrive. 
Participants are asked to make donations in any amount that fits their budget, ask others to sponsor them for additional funds and seek matching donations from employers. 

However, a minimum donation of $20 will be required for each participant to receive the commemorative walk T-shirt.  
All proceeds benefit Spooner House in Shelton.

For walk registration and sponsorship forms or more information call 203-225-0453 ext. 102 to speak with Tony Vellucci, or e-mail him at avellucci@actspooner.org. 

Information is also at actspooner.org.

The entire walk route is 3.4 miles, but participants may travel any distance they choose. Water will be provided at the halfway point along the 1.7 mile Greenway.  

The Derby Greenway provides a safe, vehicle-free, boardwalk style route with great scenery along the Naugatuck River.   

Strollers are welcome, and participants may begin the route whenever they arrive. Use the Division Street entrance, park in BJ's parking lot and meet at the Derby Greenway fountain.

This year information on healthy living and blood pressure will be provided by Griffin Hospital's 

Valley Parish Nurse Program. 

Liquid Lunch will provide delicious homemade refreshments for all participants. 

Spooner House appreciates the generous support it received from Platinum sponsor, Valley Community Foundation for this year’s Walk for the Hungry and Homeless. 

Gold Sponsors are: AD-MERICA and Employment Options, LLC; Silver Sponsors are: Adams Hometown Markets, Aquarion Water Co., Calvert Safe & Lock, Gary’s East Coast Service (commercial appliance maintenance and repair), First Church of Christ in Woodbridge, Tuttle Insurance Group, Pepe Realty, Unilever and Webster Bank; Bronze Sponsors are: Data Tel, OEM Controls, Naugatuck Valley Savings and Loan, Staley Robeson and R.D. Scinto, Inc. 

An additional contribution was received by the Brookside Inn Restaurant in Oxford.

  

Donations of any amount are requested. 

However, a minimum $20 guarantees the participant will  receive a commemorative T-shirt.

Non-profit Area Congregations Together, Inc. was formed in 1979 to help fill gaps in the Naugatuck Valley’s social service network. 

Today, Spooner House is operated by ACT and devoted to helping clients establish self-sufficiency in an atmosphere of respect and dignity. 

Spooner House provides food and/or shelter and support services to approximately 200 men, women and children each year and is recognized as one of the most comprehensive emergency shelter programs in Connecticut and provides a week’s supply of groceries each month to participating families throughout the lower Naugatuck Valley. Area Congregations Together, Inc. is a partner agency of the Valley United Way.

This information is taken from a press release. 

    ANSONIA - The Third Annual Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Faire will be held the weekends of June 22-July 7 at Warsaw Park, 119 Pulaski Highway.

     Times are Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m., with a special Saturday night show 7-9 p.m. with a Saturday admission.

     Admission is $16 for adults ages 15 and over, with discounted rates for children under 15, veterans, Peace Corps members, senior citizens (60+) and disabled.
     Group rates are available for 10 or more at $12 per person, and season passes are available for $52.

     Tickets may be purchased in advance online at www.MFRenFaire.com as well as at the gate.

     Inspire your imagination with comedy, action, games, stage shows, music, magic, live combat, food, unique vendors and a thrilling story line, which is the last of a three-part series.

      Also on site will be the Flippyn Bird Tavern where patrons can purchase beer, hard cider and mead.

      For information, visit the website at www.MFRenFaire.com.


This information is from a press release. 

This information is taken from St. Vincent De Paul Helping Hands of the Valley Facebook page:   

"St. Vincent De Paul Thrift Shop is in need of donations. All items sold through our shop goes to purchase food for the food bank. 

"We are accepting all items (except large furniture), but especially need household items, bric-a-brac, glassware, domestics (comforters, towels, blankets). 

"Hours: 9:30 - 2:30 Monday through Friday. Red bin on site for quick drop off."

The thrift shop is located at 237 Roosevelt Drive, Derby.