Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Juried art show in Valley to benefit Boys and Girls Club arts programs

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — A taste of what local artists create will be on display at “An Artful Affair,” a fundraiser at Spector Furniture and Home Decor.
The Valley Arts Council is coordinating a juried show set for 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 14 in the store, 385 Main St.
The event will benefit arts programs at the Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley and the Valley Arts Council, said Steve DiRienzo of Derby, council vice president.


Read the full story here.

Storm update: where to get showers, water, food

SHELTON - City residents who still don’t have power should be prepared to be without power for the next two to five days, city officials said Wednesday.
As of Wednesday afternoon, 7,794 Shelton customers were still without power, according to United Illuminating, or 45 percent.
Since then, UI has acknowledged 120 events or electrical problems that were a direct result of the hurricane, according to the city.
Shelton has opened the Shelton Community Center, at 41 Church St., for residents to take showers. There is a bottled water and a meals-ready-to-eat distribution point for needy residents.
The Community Center also has a limited number of outlets available for residents to use to charge their cell phones or other handheld devices. Ice is also available. It is open at 6:30 a.m. and closes at 9:15 p.m. for showers. The distribution point will be open from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. or when the city’s stock has been exhausted.
The Shelton Emergency Operations Center is active from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Shelton residents who need emergency assistance or information should call 203-924-5941. Representatives from the UI and members of Shelton Emergency Management are available to receive reports and to answer questions from the public.
Shelton will not be picking up tree branches and brush left curbside at this time. Due to the extreme amount of damage done by hurricane Irene, city crews are all working diligently cutting trees and clearing brush to assist UI and telephone personnel.
Shelton is extending the hours of operation at the Shelton Transfer Station at 866 River Road and the Compost Site on Willoughby Road. From now through Saturday, Sept. 3, both locations will be open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. Residents are urged to bring tree branches and brush there.


DERBY - The city of Derby is allowing residents to use shower facilities at the Veterans
Community Center located at 35 Fifth St. The hours of operation are from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Residents are asked to bring their own toiletries and towels as well as some form of identification. A charging station for emergency electronics and medical devices will be provided as well as food and water.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Ansonia Mayor James Della Volpe praises city's storm response

By Register Staff
ANSONIA — Mayor James Della Volpe Tuesday praised the efforts of the city’s Emergency Operations Center, which guided Ansonia’s response to Hurricane Irene. The Emergency Operations Center began its operations at 6 p.m. Saturday and worked through 5 p.m. Sunday.
Department heads involved in the response operations were: police, fire, Ansonia Rescue Medical Services, Board of Education and Public Works.

Read the full story here.

Seymour residents, need a hot shower? Here's your chance

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Residents in need of a nice hot shower can use the locker rooms at Seymour Middle School Wednesday  from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
First Selectman Paul Roy said the school, located at 211 Mountain Road, will be available to those who’ve been stuck in their homes without power since late Saturday and early Sunday when Hurricane Irene blew through.

Read the full story here.

3 Derby schools to open Wednesday; DHS remains closed

    DERBY - Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tracy said late today that Irving and Bradley elementary schools and Derby Middle School will open tomorrow as scheduled for the first day of classes.
    He said Derby High School will remain closed due to a power outage. Outside athletic activities will be held as scheduled, Tracy said.
  He was unsure when the high school will open. “We’re day-to-day,” he said.
   

Showers, food, water available in Shelton

SHELTON - City officials have set up a food and water distribution center at the Shelton Community Center, 41 Church St.
As of Tuesday afternoon, 42 percent of Shelton customers were still without power, according to United Illuminating’s web site.
Thomas Taylor, administrative assistant in the mayor’s office, said the community center got its power back Tuesday morning.
Residents without power can go there to get food and water until 9 p.m. tonight, and starting at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, according to Taylor. The state donated the provisions.
Residents can also take showers, and recharge electronic devices there, Taylor said.

Club holding basketball signups

    SHELTON - The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley is holding signups for its annual Fall Basketball League.
    Registration is online-only at www.BGC-LNV.com. Registration deadline is Sept.19; registrations after Sept. 19 will incur a $10 late fee.     
    Coaches are always needed, and anyone interested in coaching may obtain a coaches volunteer form at the Clubhouse at One Positive Place, download it from the Website, or call/e-mail Jared Katchmar,  203-924-9329, JaredKatchmar@BGC-LNV.org.
     For information on the complete signup schedule, visit www.BGC-LNV.com.

Derby announces school bus routes

Here are the bus routes for the 2011-2012 school year:

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 51     BEGINS AT 6:50 AM               
33 Roosevelt Dr. & Third St. (condo), Roosevelt Dr. & Camptown Ave., 43 Park Ave., Park Ave. & D St., Park Ave. & F St., Roosevelt Dr. & F St., Roosevelt Dr. & Cedric Ave., 503 Hawthorne Ave., Joyce Ave. & Donna, Derby Neck Rd. & Silver Hill Rd., 74 Silver Hill Rd., 230 Silver Hill Rd., 241/251/269 Silver Hill Rd. (1 stop), 275 Silver Hill Rd.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 52     BEGINS AT 7:08 AM   
Elizabeth St. & Thompson Place., Elizabeth St. & Fifth St., Elizabeth St. & Cottage St.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 53     BEGINS AT 6:50 AM
Pleasant View Rd. & Sherwood Ave., Kings Court & Hillcrest Ave., Hillcrest Ave. & Sunset Dr., 1 Lilac Circle, Sunset Dr. & Hickory Rd., David Humphreys & Dirienzo Heights, Selma Ave. & Franklin Ave.,          40 Franklin Ave. & David Humphreys, 255 David Humphreys, David Humphreys & O'Sullivan Rd.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 54     BEGINS AT 6:55 AM
New Haven Ave. & Shelton St., New Haven Ave. & Ashwood Terrace, New Haven Ave. @ Daisy Hill Condo,
Old New Haven Ave. & Rockwell Place, Old New Haven Ave. & Yochers Lane, Old New Haven Ave. & Prospect St., New Haven Ave. & Bank St., Derby Ave. & Mt. Pleasant St., Derby Ave. @ Birmingham Condos, Derby Ave. & Academy Hill

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 55     BEGINS AT 6:55AM
30 Water St., Seymour Ave. & Mason St., Seymour Ave. & Summer St., Coon Hollow Rd. & Misty Vale, Hawthorne Ave. & Coon Hollow, Hawthorne Ave. & E. St.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 56     BEGINS AT 7:00 AM
11 Academy Hill, 28 Academy Hill, 53 Academy Hill, Academy Hill & Paugassett Rd., Sentinel Hill &
High St., Sentinel Hill & McLaughlin Terr., Sentinel Hill & Laurel Ave., Sentinel Hill & Sherwood Ave., 258 Sentinel Hill, Sentinel Hill & Turner Ave., Sentinel Hill & Lombardi Dr., Sentinel Hill & McKinley Ave.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 57     BEGINS AT 6:50 AM
New Haven Ave. & Chapel St., 15 Sodom Ln., Sodom Ln. @ Orangewood West, Sodom Ln. & Shagbark @  Orangewood East, Howard Ave. & Jeanetti Dr., Coe Lane & Toro Lane, Marshall Lane & Chestnut Dr., Marshall Lane & Howard Ave., Marshall Lane & Florence Ave., Marshall Lane & George Ave., Marshall Lane & Albert Ave., Marshall Lane & Sodom Ln.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 58     BEGINS AT 7:15 AM
E. Ninth St. & Hawkins St., Ninth St. & Smith St., Emmett Ave. & Bluff St.

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL -- 59     BEGINS AT 6:50 AM
Mt. Pleasant St. & Highland Ave.

OTHER HIGH SCHOOLS

EMMETT O'BRIEN TECH -- 52     BEGINS AT 6:30 AM
Coon Hollow & Misty Vale Rd., Cedric Ave. & Roosevelt Dr., 402 Roosevelt Dr., Park Ave. & E St., Park Ave. & B St., Hawthorne Ave. & Cherry St., Cherry St. & Smith St., Smith St. & Tenth St., Emmett Ave. & Eleventh St., Emmett Ave. & Mountain St., Emmett Ave. & Bluff St., Seymour Ave. & Mason St., Seymour Ave. & E. Ninth St., Elizabeth St. & Cottage St., Elizabeth St. & Fifth St., Elizabeth St. & Thompson Place

EMMETT O'BRIEN TECH -- 58     BEGINS AT 6:31 AM
Derby Ave. & Mansfield St., Derby Ave. & Bank St., Bank St. & Gilbert St., New Haven Ave. & Chapel St., Shelton St. & New Haven Ave., Sentinel Hill & New Haven Ave., 101 Sentinel Hill, Sentinel Hill & Pleasant View Rd., Sentinel Hill & Sherwood Ave., High St. & McLaughlin Terr., Sentinel Hill & Laurel Ave., David Humphreys & Kings Court, Hillcrest Ave. & Kings Court (Top), Sunset Dr. & Hickory Rd., David Humphreys & Dirienzo Heights, David Humphreys & Franklin Ave., Sodom Ln. & Krakow St., Marshall Lane & Albert Ave., Marshall Lane & George Ave., Marshall Lane & Florence Ave.

PLATT TECH -- 60     BEGINS AT 6:30 AM
Seymour Ave. & Mason St., Seymour Ave. & E. Ninth St., Elizabeth St. & Fifth St., Bank St. & Gilbert St.,
New Haven Ave. & Chapel St., Shelton Ave. & New Haven Ave., Sentinel Hill & Danielle Court, Sentinel Hill & Pleasant View Rd., Academy Hill & Paugassett Rd., Academy Hill & Mansfield St.,  Marshall Lane & George Ave., Sodom Lane  @ Orangewood West

NONNEWAUG HIGH SCHOOL -- VAN 82     PICKUP AT 6:20 AM
41 Derby Neck Road          Note: Rides Van 50 home from school.

SOUND SCHOOL -- VAN 87      BEGINS AT 6:55 AM
Derby Ave. @ Beau-Vue Condos, 173 Elizabeth St., 38 Mohawk Ave.


BRADLEY SCHOOL

BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 51     BEGINS AT 7:30 AM
38 Great Hill Rd., 28 Cedric Ave., Park Ave. & E St.    Note: PM done with Bus 53 & Bus 55


BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 53     BEGINS AT 7:35 AM
21 Harold Ave. & Albert Ave., Harold Ave. & George Ave., Harold Ave. & Florence Ave., Harold Ave. & Howard Ave., Howard Ave. & Strang Rd., At end of cul de sac of Jeanetti, 12 Jeanetti Dr. & Howard Ave.,
Jeanetti Dr. & Coe Lane, Marshall Lane & Chestnut Dr., Marshall Lane & Caldwell Dr., Marshall Lane &
Pine St., Marshall Lane & Florence Ave., Marshall Lane & George, Belleview @ Loop, 120 Marshall Lane, Marshall Lane & Albert Ave.

BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 54     BEGINS AT 7:30 AM
218 New Haven Ave., New Haven Ave. @ Daisy Hill Condos, Old New Haven Ave. & Rockwell Place,
Old New Haven Ave. & Orchard Lane, Old New Haven Ave. & Prospect St., Bank St. & Jennings St.,
Bank St. & Crescent St., Derby Ave. & Bank St., 165 Derby Ave., Derby Ave. & Mt. Pleasant St., Derby Ave. @ Beau View Condos, Derby Ave. @ Birmingham Condos, 341 Derby Ave., Derby Ave. & Academy Hill

BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 55     BEGINS AT 7:15 AM
Hawthorne Ave. & Talmadge, Hawkins St. & Sixth St., Hawkins St. & Seventh St., Hawkins St. & Eight St., Tenth St. & Smith St., Smith St. & Cherry St., E. Ninth St. & Olivia St., E. Ninth St. & Seymour Ave. (AM Only), Elizabeth St. & Cottage, Fifth St. & Olivia St. (Learning Studio), Chapel St. & New Haven Ave., 187 New Haven Ave., Homestead Ave. & Shelton St., Sentinel Hill & Danielle Court, 81 Sentinel Hill

BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 56     BEGINS AT 7:25 AM
11 Academy Hill, Academy Hill & Mansfield St., 28 Academy Hill, 55 Academy Hill, Academy Hill & Paugassett Rd., Academy Hill & Prindle Ave., Academy Hill & Ridge Rd., 119 High St., McLaughlin Terr. & High St., McLaughlin Terr. & McLaughlin Terr., 10 Laurel Ave., Laurel Ave. & Kindle Lane, Sentinel Hill & David Humphreys, Sentinel Hill & Sherwood Ave., 258 Sentinel Hill, Sentinel Hill & Turner Ave., Sentinel Hill & Washington Ave., Sentinel Hill & Lombardi Dr., McKinley Ave. & Grandview Blvd.

BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 57     BEGINS AT 7:30 AM
852 Baldwin Rd., 15 Sodom Ln., Sodom Ln. @ Orangewood West, Sodom & Shagbark @ Orangewood East,
Sodom Ln. & John Street, 345 David Humphreys Rd., O'Sullivan Rd. & Lanzieri Court, David Humphreys Rd.& General Wooster Rd., David Humphreys & Benanto Dr., 42 Franklin Ave., Franklin Ave. & Selma Ave., Franklin Ave. @ Cul-de-sac, 101 Sunset Dr., 32 Ianotti Lane, 1 Lilac Circle,

BRADLEY SCHOOL -- 59     BEGINS AT 7:25 AM
181 Mt. Pleasant St., Mt. Pleasant & Highland Ave., 104 Mt. Pleasant St.


DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 51     BEGINS AT 7:55 AM               Note: PM done with Bus 58 & Bus 60
33 Roosevelt Dr. & Third St. (condo), Roosevelt Dr.& Camptown Ave., 43 Park Ave., Park Ave. & D St.,
Park Ave. & E St., Park Ave. & F St., Roosevelt Dr. & Cedric, Joyce Ave. & Patty Ann Terr., 38 Great Hill Rd., 74 Silver Hill Rd., 241/251/269 Silver Hill Rd. (1 stop),

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 52     BEGINS AT 8:10 AM
Elizabeth St. & Thompson Place, Elizabeth St. & Fifth St.

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 53     BEGINS AT 8:00 AM
Pleasant View Rd. & Sherwood Ave., Kings Court & Hillcrest Ave., Hillcrest Ave. & Sunset Dr., 1 Lilac Circle, Sunset Dr. & Hickory Rd., David Humphreys & Dirienzo Heights, Selma Ave. & Franklin Ave., 30 Franklin Ave. & David Humphreys, David Humphreys & Franklin Ave., David Humphreys & O'Sullivan Rd.

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 54     BEGINS AT 8:05 AM
New Haven Ave. & Shelton St., New Haven Ave. & Ashwood Terrace, New Haven Ave. @ Daisy Hill Condo,
Old New Haven Ave. & Rockwell Place, Old New Haven Ave. & Prospect St., New Haven Ave. & Bank St., Derby Ave. & Bank St., Derby Ave. & Mt. Pleasant St., Derby Ave. @ Birmingham Condos, Derby Ave. & Academy Hill

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 55     BEGINS AT 8:00 AM
70 Water St., Factory St. & Main St., Elizabeth St. & Cottage St., Seymour Ave. & Mason St., Seymour Ave. & Summer St., Coon Hollow Rd. & Misty Vale, Hawthorne Ave. & Coon Hollow, Hawthorne Ave. & E. St.

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 56     BEGINS AT 8:00 AM
New Haven Ave. & Chapel St., 241 New Haven Ave.,  91 Sentinel Hill, Sentinel Hill & Lombardi Dr., 258 Sentinel Hill, Sentinel Hill & Sherwood Ave., Sentinel Hill & Laurel Ave., Sentinel Hill & McLaughlin Terr., Sentinel Hill & High St., Academy Hill  & Prindle Ave., Academy Hill & Paugassett Rd., 53 Academy Hill, 31 Academy Hill, 11 Academy Hill

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 57     BEGINS AT 8:00 AM
852 Baldwin Road, 15 Sodom Lane, Sodom Ln. @ Orangewood West, Sodom Ln. & Shagbark @ Orangewood East, Marshall Lane & Belleview Dr., Howard Ave. & Jeanetti Dr., Coe Lane & Toro Lane, Marshall Lane & Chestnut Dr., Marshall Lane & Howard Ave., Marshall Lane & Florence Ave., Marshall Lane & Albert Ave., Marshall Lane & Sodom Lane

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 58     BEGINS AT 8:10 AM
E. Ninth St. & Hawkins St., Ninth St. & Smith St., Emmett Ave. & Bluff St., 220 Emmett Ave.

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL -- 59     BEGINS AT 8:08 AM
MT. Pleasant St. & Highland Ave.

IRVING SCHOOL and ST. MARY’S & ST. MICHAEL’S SCHOOL

IRVING SCHOOL and ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S -- 51     BEGINS AT 8:25 AM
33 Roosevelt Dr. & Third St. (condo), Roosevelt Dr. & Camptown Ave., 43 Park Ave., Park Ave. & D St., Park Ave. & E St., 167 Park Ave., 504 Roosevelt Dr., Lakeview Terr. & Loop, 43 Lakeview Terr., 65 Lakeview Terr., Hawthorne Ave. & Cedric Ave., Hawthorne Ave. & Talmadge St., Coon Hollow Rd. & Misty Vale, Hawthorne Ave. & Coppola Terr.

IRVING SCHOOL and ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S -- 52     BEGINS AT 8:33 AM  
Joyce Ave. & 1st. Donna Ave., 12 Joyce Ave., Hawthorne Ave. & Eighth St., Hawthorne Ave. & Cemetery, Caroline St. & Fifth St. (AM only), 267 Caroline St. (AM only), Sixth St. & Anson St. (PM only)

IRVING SCHOOL and ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S -- 53     BEGINS AT 8:30 AM
Seymour Ave. & Summer St., Maple St. & Lewis St.,  Maple St. & Spring St., Atwater St. & Lewis St., Seymour Ave. & Mason St., Spring St. & Mohawk Ave., Mohawk Ave. & Bluff St., Emmett Ave. & Bluff St., Emmett Ave. & Fall St., Emmett Ave. & Eleventh St., Tenth St. & Emmett Ave.

ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S SCHOOL -- 54     BEGINS AT 8:35 AM
Academy Hill & Academy Hill Ext., 23 Stephens St., 232 Sentinel Hill, Bank St. & Crescent St.

IRVING SCHOOL and ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S -- 55     BEGINS AT 8:35 AM
272 Silver Hill Rd., 255/251 Silver Hill Rd., Hawthorne Ave.& Nutmeg Ave., Cherry St. & Summit St.,
Smith St. & Cherry St., Smith St. & Ninth St. (Noah's Ark), Smith St. & Tenth St.

ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S SCHOOL -- 57     BEGINS AT 8:27 AM
26 Prindle Ave., Kings Court & Bradley Terr., Selma Ave. & Franklin Ave., Marshall Lane & Chestnut St.,
46 Belleview Dr.          Note: PM done with Bus 54

IRVING SCHOOL and ST. MARY'S & ST. MICHAEL'S -- 59     BEGINS AT 6:50 AM
TBA

IRVING SCHOOL -- 60      BEGINS AT 8:40 AM
Anson St.& Lafayette St., Fifth St.& Olivia St. (Learning Studio), Fifth St.& Minerva St.,
Caroline St. & Fifth St. (PM), 267 Caroline St. (PM)


LATE BUSES

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL & DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL

DERBY HIGH SCHOOL TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS @ 3:30 PM

DERBY MIDDLE SCHOOL   MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS @ 3:30 PM

Passes required and Late Buses do not operate on Early Dismissal Days.


LATE BUS -- 56                                  WESTSIDE

Seymour Ave. & Spring St., Seymour Ave. & E. Ninth St., Elizabeth St. & Fifth St., Roosevelt Dr. & Third St.,
Roosevelt Dr. & F St., Roosevelt Dr. & Lakeview Terr., Roosevelt Dr. & Cullen's Hill, Roosevelt Dr.& Buckingham Rd., Derby Neck Rd. @ Students Homes, Hawthorne Ave. & Patty Ann Terr., Silver Hill Rd. @ Students Homes



LATE BUS -- 58                                     EASTSIDE

New Haven Ave. & Chapel St., New Haven Ave. & Derby-Milford Rd., Sodom Lane & David Humphreys,
Marshall Lane & Sodom Lane, Marshall Lane & George Ave., Marshall Lane & Howard Ave., Marshall Lane & Coe Lane, Sunset Dr .& Hillcrest Ave., Sunset Dr. & David Humphreys, David Humphreys & Sentinel Hill,
Sentinel Hill & New Haven Ave., New Haven Ave. & Old New Haven Ave., New Haven Ave. & Gilbert St. (Bank St.), Derby Ave. & Bank St., Derby Ave. & Mt. Pleasant St., Derby Ave. & Academy Hill

Power restored at Ansonia Middle School

ANSONIA - Power was restored this morning at Ansonia Middle School and the Central Office building. Schools will open Wednesday as scheduled for a full day of school, according to the district’s Web site.

Valley United Way helps kids go back to school


    Valley United Way’s Corporate Volunteer Council has completed its 16th Back to School Clothes for Kids project. A total of 150 children received bins filled with two complete outfits, underwear, socks, sneakers, a winter coat and a backpack filled with school supplies.
    To date the CVC has outfitted 2,207 Valley children and spent $455,000.
Shelton Superintendent of Schools Freeman Burr and Assistant Superintendent Lorraine Rossner stopped in to thank the companies for their generosity and say hello to the children.
    Burr said, “I just want to thank the CVC for the support they have shown for our students in the Shelton School System by supplying them with the materials necessary to begin the school year with the “things” that will let those children start the year in a positive, happy, and healthy state of mind. It makes our job so much easier when kids are happy and focused on learning rather than what they need.”
    The goal of the CVC project is to provide new clothing to children in need at the start of the school year in an effort to improve attendance on the first days of school and boost confidence.
    National statistics show many underprivileged children miss the first few days of school simply because they do not have new clothes to wear. CVC members hope that by providing the children with clothes and school supplies, they will be encouraged to do their best while receiving a boost to their self-esteem.
    The CVC is a coalition of local businesses and corporations that have an active employee volunteer involvement program. For information contact Valley United Way’s Volunteer Center Director, Patricia Tarasovic, 203- 926-9478 or at patricia.tarasovic@valleyunitedway.org.

Hurricane Irene forces some schools in Connecticut to delay start of new year

Summer will last longer for some area students as Hurricane Irene has delayed openings in many towns. Here is a partial list:

ANSONIA: City schools open Wednesday, with possible exception of Ansonia Middle School, where power is out. Emmett O’Brien Technical High School to open today.

BRANFORD: Thursday opening canceled. No start date determined.

CHESHIRE: School opening postponed to today. Call 203-250-2410 to verify.

DERBY: School opening postponed; Wednesday start possible. Staff to report.

Read the full story here.

Monday, August 29, 2011

Oxford-based pot farm leader sentenced to 14 years

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
HARTFORD — Calling Cheyne Mazza of Oxford the “leader” of a Valley marijuana operation, and someone who exposed others to danger for his own greed, U.S. District Court Judge Vanessa L. Bryant sentenced him to 14 years in prison Monday.
“This is an offense that took place over more than two years,” Bryant said. “A substantial period of incarceration is necessary to deter Mr. Mazza.”
Mazza, 29, must also pay a $50,000 fine. He has been incarcerated since December 2009, and will get credit for time served.

Read the full story here.

Derby Police Department gains its first K-9 team

K-9 Officer Jordan Gochros, left, Mayor Anthony Staffieri and Police Chief Gerald Narowski with Derby's first K-9 partner, Bear.

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — The Police Department has welcomed Bear, an 11-month-old German shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix, to the force.
The jet black dog recently completed four weeks of rigorous K-9 training in Mechanicsburg, Pa., and hit the beat this week with his handler, Officer Jordan Gochros.

Read the full story here.
 

Residents of Shelton's Maples section take latest hit from Housatonic in stride (video)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SHELTON — The flood-prone Maples area took another hit from the Housatonic River, but residents took it all in stride.
Even though emergency personnel called for an evacuation Saturday ahead of Hurricane Irene, many residents decided to remain in their homes and ride the storm out.


Read the full story here.

Heating oil tank leaks at Derby condominium

DERBY - Firefighters were called to a condominium at the Orangewood West complex off Sodom Lane Monday for a leaking home-heating oil tank, Fire Chief William Nicoletti said.
“The DEEP was on the scene and they requested that we stop the leakage,” he said.
The hole was plugged as a temporary fix. The condo association will contact a contractor to make a full repair, Nicoletti said.
There were no injuries, he said.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Derby seeks to extend popular Greenway

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
DERBY — People who enjoy taking a stroll on the Greenway will have a longer walk, with more vantage points for river views.
The city will go out to bid in September to extend the trail and install a wooden footbridge over an inlet.

Read the full story here.

Conversion of Ansonia Armory into community center is 1 step closer

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — Conversion of the 90-year-old armory into a regional community center and recreation facility is one step closer to reality.
State Rep. Linda M. Gentile, D-Ansonia, said Friday the state Bond Commission approved $500,000 toward bringing the brick building at 5 State St. up to code.
The funds will be used to repair the gym floor and install a sprinkler system.


Read the full story here.

Ansonia closes emergency shelter


ANSONIA - As of 1 p.m. today, the city’s emergency shelter at Ansonia High School has been closed. 
Three residents who utilized the facility during Hurricane Irene had already left. The domestic pet facility at John C. Mead School also was closed.

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Shelton orders evacuation of Maples by 6 p.m.

SHELTON — The Fire Department has issued a mandatory evacuation for residents of the Maples by 6 p.m. today because of Hurricane Irene.
Authorities are urging residents to use caution and stay alert to dangerous conditions during the storm. For more information go to http://www.sheltonemergency.com/ or http://www.sheltonpolice.net/ .

Hurricane Irene: Greater New Haven towns set up emergency shelters

A number of Greater New Haven communities have set up emergency shelters, if needed, in advance of Hurricane Irene. Here's a rundown:

ANSONIA

Ansonia High School, 20 Pulaski Highway, is a designated area for emergency shelter if needed. If it is used, only service animals will be allowed in the building. In the event people are evacuated, pets would be sheltered at John C. Mead Elementary School. Both schools are in the city’s Hilltop section.

BRANFORD

Shelter will open at Mary T. Murphy School, 14 Brushy Plain Road., the only large municipal building that is outside areas that could flood in a category 1-4 hurricane, and Branford High School, 185 East Main St. Separate areas will be available within the schools for Branford and North Branford residents with pets. Pets should be in a kennel, cage or carrier and owners should bring food for their pets.

CHESHIRE

The town’s primary shelter will be at the Cheshire Senior Center, which is located at 240 Maple Ave. Town Manager Michael Milone said the shelter will open at 7 a.m. on Sunday. If the number of people seeking shelter is great enough, Milone said a second shelter will open at Cheshire High School. The emergency shelters will not be providing food so Milone encouraged residents to bring their own food as well as any medications they might need. The Senior Center’s bus will be available for emergency transportation only, Milone said.

DERBY

Temporary shelters will be set up at the Derby Middle School, 10 Nutmeg Ave., and at Bradley School, 155 David Humphreys Road, Derby. If you are ordered to evacuate by emergency personnel, these shelters will accommodate people until it is safe to transport them to a state shelter. If you have pets and you are evacuated, please make sure that you have a crate and an adequate amount of food for at least a day with you. As of Friday, the only voluntary evacuation area is the McConney Grove area, as it is expected that there will be a major impact due to the Housatonic River as a result of the storm.

EAST HAVEN

A shelter and designated evacuation area is being set up at East Haven High School on Wheelbarrow Lane off Route 80. Officials are taking “precautionary steps” to set it up, but no time has been set for when it might open. The shelter will have designated areas for people with pets. Pets should be in a kennel or carrier. East Haven also will have two buses available if needed to help with any evacuation efforts.

GUILFORD

A shelter will first be operating out of the Nathanael B. Greene Community Center on Church Street near the Green starting at noon Saturday. The facility is prepared to accommodate 180 people for up to three days. When it becomes full, Guilford High School will open as a secondary shelter. Community center cooks will be on hand, and bus drivers will be available to help bring people to the shelters. People can bring pets in cages, but they will probably be put in another area or at the center’s loading dock.

HAMDEN

Hamden High School, 2040 Dixwell Ave., is opening at 7 p.m. Saturday as an emergency shelter. People should bring basic supplies and toiletries, medications, non-perishable foods and a change of clothing. Cats and dogs allowed in carriers with their own food.

MADISON

The town will open a shelter at the town gym, located on Campus Drive, around noon on Saturday. Residents are urged to bring blankets and pillows to the shelter, as well as toiletries and towels, because there are showers at the gym. Water and snacks will be offered. Those using the shelter can bring pets as long as they are on leashes or in cages.

MILFORD

A shelter is set to open Saturday at 6 p.m. at Jonathan Law High School, but officials are recommending that anyone with special medical needs stay at the home of a family member or friend.

NEW HAVEN

The city will have two emergency shelters open starting Saturday. Benjamin Jepson School, 15 Lexington Ave., will open as a shelter noon. The James Hillhouse High School Field House, 480 Sherman Parkway, will open as a shelter at 6:00 p.m. Crated pets will be allowed in city shelters.

NORTH BRANFORD

North Branford Intermediate School at 654 Foxon Road will open at 6 p.m. Saturday as a shelter and house people first in the cafeteria and gym. Residents with medical conditions or senior citizens are encouraged to seek private shelter with friends and family. Residents with pets will be directed to the Branford shelter at Mary T. Murphy School, 14 Brushy Plain Road. Anyone who wants to volunteer for the effort is also welcome.

NORTH HAVEN

A shelter will open at North Haven High School, 221 Elm Street Ext., at 6 p.m. Saturday. Residents in areas prone to flooding are urged to use it. About 60 cots will be available for use and people are encouraged to bring blankets and pillows if they use the shelter. People can bring food; there will be water, juice and snacks. People may bring pets in cages but must bring their leashes and food.

OLD SAYBROOK

Old Saybrook Senior High School, 1111 Boston Post Road, will open as the town’s emergency shelter at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. Officials ask that residents make arrangements for their pets, rather than bringing them to the shelter, since some people may be allergic.

SEYMOUR

If needed, Seymour Middle School on Mountain Road will be used as an emergency shelter, especially in the event of any evacuations.

SHELTON

Shelton High School on Meadow Street will be a temporary shelter, as needed. Pets must be in a kennel or cage.

As of Friday evening, officials were asking for a voluntary evacuation of residents of the Maples and the Birchbank areas, and any other areas that have experienced flooding in the past.

WALLINGFORD

Sheehan High School, which is located at 142 Hope Hill Road, has been designated at the town’s emergency shelter. But as of Friday evening, town officials had not decided if or when the shelter would open.

WESTBROOK

Daisy Ingraham School, 105 Goodspeed Drive, will be used as a shelter starting at 8 p.m. Saturday. Snacks, water, cots and blankets will be available. People are urged to bring the bare necessities but can bring pets if they are crated. Those who use the shelter at the school should park in the Middle/ High School parking lot.

WEST HAVEN

The city will announce its shelter location at 10 a.m. Saturday with a reverse 911 call to homeowners. It is expected to be at Carrigan Middle School, Tetlow Street.


Friday, August 26, 2011

Hurricane Irene: Cancellations and postponements in Greater New Haven


Here are cancellations and postponements reported so far related to Hurricane Irene, including events in the Valley. Check back for updates:

Amity Regional School: Announcements will be made on all local and regional media outlets as well as through the Amity web site at www.amityregion5.org about planned teacher only day Monday and start of school Tuesday.

Old Lyme: Sennheiser 20th Anniversary press conference scheduled for Monday to a date to be scheduled in September

Seymour: Saturday’s planned rededication and illumination of the Civil War Monument at French Memorial Park has been cancelled. In addition, a program scheduled at the Seymour Historical Society for Sunday afternoon has been postponed

Shelton: Sunday’s fourth annual open house at Spooner House homeless shelter, 30 Todd Road, postponed to a date to be announced.

Southern Connecticut State University: Move-in day for returning students postponed until 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Valley communities prepare for Irene

In ANSONIA, Police Chief Kevin Hale said the city’s public safety committee will meet this morning to discuss preparations for Hurricane Irene’s possible arrival.
He said the committee includes representatives of the police, fire and public works departments, Mayor James Della Volpe, emergency personnel and building officials.
"We’ll meet in our emergency operations center at the police station," Hale said. On Thursday officials tested equipment, he said. "We hope for the best and plan for the worst."
Hale participated in a conference call with state emergency officials Thursday. "We’re coordinating our efforts," he said, with several agencies.
Hale said Ansonia High School is a designated area for emergency shelter if needed. If it is used, only service animals will be allowed in the building. In the event people are evacuated, pets would be sheltered at John C. Mead elementary school. Both schools are in the city’s Hilltop section.
He said there will be an additional police dispatcher on duty during the storm, and the city’s Web site will be updated with emergency information starting Friday.
Police are urging people to remain home during the storm. Hazardous conditions could be created "if trees come down and are blocking roads," Hale said.

In DERBY, Mayor Anthony Staffieri met with department heads Thursday to discuss preparations for the expected hurricane.
According to Staffieri, the city is lowering water in the reservoirs at Frank P. Witek Memorial Park in preparation for the expected heavy rainfall.
Upriver, there are plans to lower Lake Zoar by approximately five feet before the storm to reduce the risk of flooding in the Valley region, Staffieri said.
"We are getting equipment ready, making sure chainsaws are working fine, cleaning out catch basins, and checking that pumps for flood control are working properly," Staffieri said.
The city is also getting sandbags ready, and officials are planning to remove flags and banners to reduce the risk of poles coming down.
"We are trying to take any precautions we can," Staffieri said.
Derby police Lt. Salvatore Frosceno said areas like Mcconney Grove, a residential neighborhood off Roosevelt Drive, and the O’Sullivan’s Island area, tend to flood first in the city. Mcconney Grove may have to be evacuated, Frosceno said.
"Those are the two primary areas we keep an eye on," Frosceno said. "Department heads are all coordinating efforts."

In SHELTON, officials are tracking the storm’s progress, and may ask residents in areas like The Maples, a neighborhood off of Indian Well Road that is flood-prone, to evacuate.
"It is better to self-evacuate before there are any problems," said Police Chief Joel Hurliman. "Flooding is an area of concern, because of downstream flooding at places like The Maples. We are particularly concerned with tree limbs and power lines down everywhere in the city."
Hurliman noted that if the storm interferes with communication, people in flood-prone areas may not be able to be notified of an impending flood.
John Millo, Shelton’s director of emergency management, said all department heads have made sure equipment is ready.
"We are anticipating a good sized mess," Millo said. "The entire Housatonic River and inland streams are vulnerable to flooding."

In SEYMOUR, emergency officials said they are ready to take Irene head on, with emergency plans in the works since last Friday.
Tom Eighmie, the town’s emergency management director, said last Friday he got wind of Irene possibly being problematic for the state, and he quickly launched into action.
Eighmie said after calling a meeting of all the town’s emergency services departments, including police, fire and ambulance, as well as the Public Works Department, Seymour is poised to weather the storm.
So far, public works crews have made more than 1,000 sandbags and cleaned out dozens of storm drains on roads that are prone to flooding. Targeting the trouble spots, like lower Mountain Road, Walnut Street and along Route 67 near Bladens Brook and Skokorat Street, were a priority, Eighmie said, in order to help the roads from flooding over.
Eighmie said the latest weather reports he got from the state are calling for 10-12 inches of rain, along with wind gusts from 40-90 mph.
Eighmie also said volunteer firefighters and EMT’s have each equipped three of their firetrucks and ambulances with extra and necessary emergency supplies, and have worked out schedules to ensure that plenty of extra volunteers are on hand to assist with any potential problems.
Public works vehicles have already been outfitted with sandbags, chainsaws and other necessary equipment to help ride the storm out.
The police department is also doubling its shifts, Eighmie said, to further ensure extra coverage and assistance if roads need to be barricaded, closed, etc.
"We’re pretty prepared at this point," Eighmie said.
Eighme said the town is also prepared to utilize its Code Red system if needed, which sends residents automatic messages in emergency situations.
Great Hill Firehouse on Great Hill Road will be set up as the town’s emergency operation center. And if needed, Seymour Middle School on Mountain Road will be used as an emergency shelter, especially in the event of any evacuations.
Between now and Sunday, Eighmie said he’s staying in close contact with the state to get the latest on emergency plans and weather updates, and will continue to hold staff meetings with town emergency personnel to ensure everyone is prepared for the worse.

- Michelle Tuccitto Sullo, Patricia Villers and Jean Falbo-Sosnovich contributed to this story.

Fire department offers safety tips in event of power outages

SHELTON - The Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau urges everyone to exercise caution when using generators and candles during power outages.  
Such outages occur locally with the possible impending hurricane or tropical storm.  
Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief,  Fire Prevention, said such outages can present fire hazards that many people might not normally consider. 
The fire prevention bureau recommends planning ahead of time and offers the following important safety tips:
·         If you have a portable generator, or other fuel powered appliance, only run and use it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator or fuel powered equipment indoors or in attached garages. Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled. This is in addition to the hazards associated with fuels involved with this equipment.
·         Plug individual appliances into the generator using heavy duty, outdoor rated cords with a wire gauge adequate for the appliance load.
·         Avoid the use of candles. With alternative sources of lighting, candles should not be needed.  Instead use battery operated lighting and flashlights or glowsticks that do not require power or flame. 
Finally, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call “911” for help.  And remember to practice your home escape plan.
 For information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau, 203- 924-1555 or on the web under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org                      

Warrant sought in sexual assault

    SHELTON - Police are seeking an arrest warrant in a Friday evening sexual assault on Nells Rock Road, Detective Sgt. Kevin Ahern said Tuesday. 
A woman reported to police Saturday afternoon that she had been assaulted, he said.
    “The person is known to her,” Ahern said. “There was no abduction and it was not a random act.”

HURRICANE IRENE: Connecticut prepares for wrath of storm; Gov. Malloy declares civil emergency

By Ed Stannard
and Mary O'Leary
Register Staff
HARTFORD — Hurricane Irene is expected to hit coastal Connecticut  Sunday as a Category 1 storm, so residents should prepare for high winds and rain, Peter Boynton, deputy commissioner of the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection told reporters in a conference call Thursday.
The brunt of the storm is expected to affect Connecticut from about 4 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, News 8 meteorologist Gil Simmons reported.

Read the full story here.

Derby Mayor Staffieri pledges hurricane aid for flood-prone Gilbert Street (video)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — City officials vowed Thursday to fix flooding problems for Gilbert Street residents that have plagued them for 30 years.
Mayor Anthony Staffieri pledged to make long overdue repairs to the hard hit area.
“This administration will promise to prioritize that we will get this fixed,” Staffieri said.

Read the full story here.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

School board names housemaster for Shelton Intermediate School

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SHELTON — Dina Ballaro Marks, a familiar face to students and staff at Shelton Intermediate School, was named housemaster this week.
The Board of Education unanimously voted Wednesday in favor of Marks’ appointment. A housemaster is similar to an assistant principal.
Marks had been interim housemaster for the last school year. She replaces Kathy Bender, who has been named the district’s director of special education and curriculum.

Read the full story here.

Shelton man arrested after calling cops on himself for parking in space for handicapped

SHELTON — A Shelton man was arrested early Thursday after he called the police to report that he had parked in a handicapped spot, police said.

Read more here.

Shelton cops capture man accused of stealing laptop, $30K worth of electronic equipment

                                                               Siler


By Register Staff
SHELTON — Police have captured a man who allegedly stole a laptop and $30,000 worth of electronic equipment from a truck, police said Thursday.
Police Lt. Robert Kozlowsky said police were summoned Wednesday to Sheehy Lane at about 5:45 a.m., on a report of a male with a black hoodie and baseball cap going into vehicles.
Police noticed a white Honda that appeared to be recently driven and took down the license plate, but police could not locate the suspect. Officers later noticed the Honda was gone.

Read the full story here.

Talk to focus on how to de-clutter

   DERBY - The Derby Public Library, 313 Elizabeth St., will host a talk on how to "De-clutter and Take Control of Your Life," at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 26.
    Elaine Turek, the De-Clutter Specialist, will give advice on how to let go of the material objects that we collect after they become a burden on our lives. 
    She will help participants work through their clutter to an end result by asking themselves a few questions. Practical tips on how to deal with mail, closet control, storage areas and bedding will be given.
   Registration is requested.  For information, stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482, or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.    

Derby's Staffieri refuses to debate challenger Foley

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — Just like he did two years ago, Republican Mayor Anthony Staffieri is refusing to debate Democratic challenger Dan Foley in the public arena.
“I like to take my debate to the people, not to the politicians,” Staffieri said Wednesday.
Staffieri is seeking his fourth term as Derby’s top elected official. Foley unsuccessfully challenged Staffieri in the 2009 election.

Read the full story here.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Elroy the Elk visits Derby concertgoers

Elroy the Elk visited children at the Dr. Ya Ya concert Tuesday night on the Derby Green. Local dentist and Derby Elks Lodge member Dr. Anita Dugatto sponsored the concert, which included distribution of drug awareness information. Drug awareness is a national initiative of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Patricia Villers/Register

All-Decades Reunion on tap Saturday

    ANSONIA - Graduates of Ansonia High School and the former Pine High School will hold their Annual All-Decades Reunion Saturday on the patio at John J. Sullivan’s restaurant, 557 Wakelee Ave.   The festivities start at 6 p.m.
    There will be music relating to all the decades, appetizers, entertainment, and a cash bar. A moment of silence will be held for all of the classmates who have died in the past year. 
    Tickets will be sold at the door; no reservations are required.
    Tickets are $15 and a portion of the ticket sales will help support future cultural events such as a series of summer concerts, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Ansonia Middle School Culture Fair and the Ansonia Harvest Festival.
    For information call Judy Nicolari, 203-732-1040.

Seymour/Oxford Food Bank gets new equipment

 
Seymour/Oxford Ecumenical Food Bank volunteers pose in front of two new upright freezers donated by the Seymour Founders' Day Association. With them are several members of the Association, including volunteer coordinator Kim Osgood, front center. Patricia Villers / Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
SEYMOUR — Seymour/Oxford Ecumenical Food Bank volunteers now will be able to serve clients more efficiently, thanks to the Seymour Founder’s Day Association.
The food bank has two new freezers, a new refrigerator and a boost in its bank account, all from proceeds from the second annual Founder’s Day in June.
The food bank is in the basement of Trinity Episcopal Church.

Read the full story here.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Solar panels installed to help supply power to Ansonia High

 
Solar panels have been installed on the roof of Ansonia High School. / Contributed photo
 

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — The city’s green initiative was in the spotlight Tuesday at Ansonia High School at a celebration of the installation of solar panels that will provide 15 percent of the building’s power.
The high school is the first municipal building to use solar energy, officials said. The building is the city’s largest consumer of energy.
Solar panels were installed on the roof in the spring, and were operating in late July.


Read the full story here.

Ex-Ansonia alderman gets 37 months in marijuana case (document)

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
HARTFORD — A former Seymour police officer and Ansonia alderman, Joseph Cassetti, was sentenced Tuesday to 37 months in prison and fined $50,000 for his role in a large scale Valley marijuana growing operation.
U.S. District Court Judge Vanessa L. Bryant imposed the sentence on Cassetti, 61, of Root Avenue, Ansonia.
“The conduct of Mr. Cassetti, a former police officer and alderman, a man who has been active in government, is unacceptable,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney David Sullivan, who noted that Cassetti cooperated with investigators.

Read the full story here.

Seymour Land Trust gets $10G to fix up Chatfield Park

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The Seymour Land Trust got an unexpected gift this week to replace or repair the footbridges and trails in Chatfield Park that were destroyed by recent flooding.
The Katharine Matthies Foundation gave the land trust $10,000, which the trust will match. The $20,000 will enable repairs to begin on Nesteriak Trail, which was badly hit by several rainstorms and flash floods this month and July.


Read the full story here.

Seymour shop owner donates $10G for Strand marquee

Shop owner Meghan Tarby, second from left, presents a $10,000 check to Seymour Culture and Arts Commission chairwoman Judy Simpson, third from left. Joining them are Seymour First Selectman Paul Roy, far left, Valerie D’Anna, fourth from left, Linda Bellavance, and Kathie Vrlik. Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President William Purcell is in rear of photo. Patricia Villers/Register  


By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
SEYMOUR — Installation of a new marquee at the Strand Theater is a step closer to reality thanks to a $10,000 donation to the Culture and Arts Commission.
Local business owner Meghan Tarby presented a check Friday to the commission’s Strand Theater Restoration Fund. She raised the money from three shows she produced at the Strand in June.
Tarby presented the money to commission Chairwoman Judy Simpson in a brief ceremony outside the theater at 165 Main St.

Read the full story here.

Seymour Selectmen hope new tennis courts serve purpose at French Memorial Park

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Tennis anyone?
That’s what the Parks Commission is hoping residents will be saying in late fall, when two tennis courts will be installed at French Memorial Park.
The Board of Selectmen recently approved a bid of $83,500 for the project. A $50,000 grant from the Small Town Economic Assistance Program, along with $33,500 from the Parks Commission budget, will pay for the courts, according to First Selectman Paul Roy.

Read the full story here.

Monday, August 22, 2011

It's a matter of too much lighting for Derby homeowner

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY -- David Koreiwo will soon regain some privacy stolen by his imposing neighbor.
Koreiwo’s neighbor is Derby Middle School. Since the towering facility opened in January 2010, Koreiwo said, lights have beamed into his home at 55 Chatfield St., and noisy kids yelled out when he raked his yard.

Read the full story here.

Shelton man sued in horse abuse case

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
SHELTON — A city woman whose neighbor was charged with sexually abusing her horse is suing him, seeking reimbursement for the cost of surveillance cameras, locks and emotional distress.
Joan Flannery initially filed an action against her neighbor, Marian Wegiel, in small claims court seeking about $700, but now has an action pending in Superior Court in Milford, seeking at least $5,000.

Read the full story here

Council slates workshop on special needs

SHELTON - The Shelton School Readiness Council will host a Special Needs Workshop for parents and caregivers from 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 31 at Plumb Memorial Library, 65 Wooster St.,
Myra Watnick from Birth to Three and David Marchitto from Shelton Public Schools will address the evaluation process, services available, and how to help your child.
Registration is required; contact Tami, 203-257-3250 or TLBOGART@ATT.NET.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Shelton teen sets a swim record

Tibor Molnar of Shelton poses at Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport after swimming across Long Island Sound. / Contributed photo

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
SHELTON — A 2011 Shelton High School graduate earlier this month became the youngest person to complete the 15½-mile Swim Across the Sound challenge.
The event goes from Long Island, N.Y., to Captain’s Cove Seaport in Bridgeport and raises money for cancer education, screening and prevention programs. It is sponsored by St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation.

Read the full story here.

Derby slashes student suspensions

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — Student suspensions at Derby Middle School decreased so dramatically last year that the state Department of Education thought it was a mistake.
The unprecedented “80 percent” reduction in suspensions for 2010-2011 was for real, according to Principal Sally Bonina.
Bonina said for 2009-2010, 96 students were suspended for various reasons. But, thanks to a new approach, nine students were suspended in 2010-2011.

Read the full story here.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Conn. motor vehicle offices to stay open following unions' approval of concessions deal; no courthouses will close (video)

By Mary E. O’Leary
Register Topics Editor
HARTFORD — Plans to close motor vehicle offices and end state-run ferries won’t go through, now that an agreement has been reached with state workers, but the process to raise fare increases for Metro-North riders will proceed.
Office of Policy and Management Secretary Ben Barnes Friday addressed budget issues, potential closings and layoffs in light of the approval this week of the $1.6 billion concession package by state workers.
About 3,100 layoff notices were issued to executive branch workers, with about 230 of them already losing their jobs. Barnes said these will be rescinded as of Sept. 1 for union members who are represented by locals that approved the pension and heath care changes, as well as the separate wage package that provides for four years of job security.Some 70 managers who have gotten pink slips are not protected by the agreement.
A spokeswoman for the Judicial Department said the 452 layoff notices sent to its workers, including temporary court clerks, are being rescinded. She said no law libraries or courthouses will close, but the New Haven Juvenile Detention Center will be shuttered.

Read more here.

State won't prosecute Ansonia mechanic

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
mtuccitto@nhregister.com
The state will not prosecute an Ansonia resident and businessman in connection with an alleged Waterbury insurance fraud.
A "nolle" was entered Thursday in the case against Frank Heusser Jr., 35, of Prindle Avenue, owner of Frank’s LLC, an Ansonia garage.

Read more on page C3 of today's print edition.

Shelton businesses, donors give back to needy kids


Jennifer Sneider, front center, owner of J-Cuts in Shelton, shows off some of the school supplies she collected at her salon with representatives of Valley nonprofit agencies. Melanie Stengel / Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
SHELTON — Needy area children will start school on the right foot thanks to the people who donated supplies in a drive at local businesses.
Collection points were at J-Cuts, a salon at 505 Howe Ave., and Professional Tire at 40 Todd Road.
Representatives from five agencies stopped at J-Cuts Thursday to pick up donations ranging from pencils, pens and notebooks to backpacks.

Read the full story here.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Landolfi named interim assistant principal at Derby High

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — Veteran educator Paul Landolfi has been named interim assistant principal of Derby High School.
The Board of Education made the appointment Thursday. Landolfi will work Aug. 22 to Nov. 1, until a permanent assistant principal can be found.

Read the full story here.

Grand jury probe request denied in Smolinski case

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
The parents of missing man William “Billy” Smolinski Jr. say their efforts to get a state or federal grand jury probe into his disappearance have been denied, but they are hoping officials will change their minds.

Read more here.

Center program to feature insects making music

ANSONIA - Parents and caregivers are invited to bring infants and toddlers to the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 2 for a Tots in the Park program. The center is at 10 Deerfield Road.
The program will focus on how insects make music. Can you sing like a katydid or strum like a cricket? Find out about these fascinating creatures and learn a song or two.

 Tuition is $6 per family; members of Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. pay $4. To register call 203-736-1053.

Civil War monument in Seymour to be rededicated

Soldiers' Monument at French Memorial Park in Seymour will be rededicated Aug. 27. Patricia Villers/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
SEYMOUR — American Legion Post 10 and the town next week will rededicate a Civil War monument that has stood for more than a century in French Memorial Park.
First Selectman Paul Roy has invited the public to bring picnics and lawn chairs to the event, which will start at 4 p.m. Aug. 27.
The event at Soldiers’ Monument is part of the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Roy said.

Read the full story here.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Fairfield drowning victim identified as Shelton man

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
FAIRFIELD — A Shelton man drowned in Lake Mohegan Thursday morning, according to police and fire officials.
Police identified the victim Thursday as Frank Mazzabufi, 39, of Shelton.

Read the full story here.

Shelton man wins national award for work with veterans

DAR President General Merry Ann Wright presents Al Meadows of Shelton with the National Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award for 2011 at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. /Credit: Convention Photography Services, Inc.

Shelton resident Al Meadows, public relations officer for
AMVETS Post 43, was presented the National Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award for 2011 from the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution at its National Defense Night July 1 at the 120th Continental Congress in Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C.
A notification letter stated, “The selection committee was truly impressed by your dedication to our veterans, and your work with Operation Gift Cards is inspiring...”
Since October 2005, the Operation Gift Cards’ 73 monthly/bimonthly visits have presented 11,600 thank you kits which contained $232,000 in post exchange (military department store) gift certificates to wounded troops in military hospitals in Washington, D.C. and Bethesda, Md.
An additional $153,690 in other gift certificates and special group product donations (Girl Scout cookies, corporate gift certificates, etc.) have been delivered to the Soldier Family Assistance Center, the Fisher Houses, the Mologne House, the Navy Lodge, the Red Cross, and the Bethesda Casualty Affairs Office at the Walter Reed and Bethesda military bases, along with more than $50,000 worth of items on the “wish list” for both the wounded troops and their families (over $435,000 total).
Meadows is a combat wounded Vietnam veteran. He created Operation Gift Cards with a goal of having a different group of co-sponsors collectively purchase, each month, between $3,000 and $5,000 in post exchange gift certificates in order to present all visited wounded patients in Walter Reed and Bethesda military hospitals with at least three “Thank You” kits containing at least $60 in gift certificates.
Operation Gift Cards had been successful for the past five years and 11 months due to the 173 representatives who have visited wounded troops on behalf of the 60 cosponsors and the thousands of veterans and civilians who have made monetary or item contributions.


McMahon to attend Derby GOP fund-raiser

Linda McMahon will attend the Sept. 15 Staffieri for Mayor fund-raiser at Villa Bianca, 312 Roosevelt Drive, Seymour.
This event, the second of Derby Mayor Anthony Staffieri's fund-raisers this year, will be a New England Clambake. Roast pork will also be on the menu.
The cost is $25 per person and that includes beer, wine and soda.
For tickets, call Judy Szewczyk, 203-906-3602.

Man gets probation in missing teen case

DERBY — A Texas man who drove to Connecticut to meet a 15-year-old Ansonia girl he had met online and brought her to a Danbury hotel was sentenced this week to two years of probation.
Gabriel Mendoza, who was 19 at the time of his November 2010 arrest, was sentenced in Superior Court. Mendoza risks up to 11 months in prison if he violates probation.
While Ansonia police initially charged Mendoza with risk of injury to a minor, he pleaded guilty to first-degree reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor, court documents show.
At the time of Mendoza’s arrest, Ansonia police said he had begun having an online relationship with the girl, then he drove from Texas to meet her. The girl did not tell her family where she was going, and didn’t leave any note or message. Police said she met with Mendoza willingly, and both denied any sexual activity beyond kissing. Police began an extensive search and reunited her with her family a day after her disappearance.

BBQ planned to raise funds for Miller

SEYMOUR - A backyard barbecue fundraiser for Republican First Selectman candidate Kurt Miller will take place Aug. 27 at the home of Mark and Corinne Thompson, 31 Evergreen Terrace.
The event will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Attendees are asked to contribute a minimum of $30 to Miller’s campaign. For information, or to RSVP, call 203-816-7313.

Navy Band to perform Saturday

SEYMOUR - The U.S. Navy’s Northeast Ceremonial Band will perform a free concert Saturday downtown.
The 20-member group will perform as part of the Seymour Culture and Arts Commission ongoing summer concert series.
The concert will begin at 6 p.m. at the corner of First and Bank streets.
In case of rain, the concert will be moved to the Strand Theatre on Main Street.
The band, which consists of professional Navy musicians, will perform a variety of music, ranging from John Phillip Sousa’s patriotic marches to popular Broadway tunes.
For information, contact Kim Osgood, 203-888-7880.

Helping Hands of the Valley in need of help, donations

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Officials at St. Vincent De Paul Helping Hands of the Valley have issued a plea to the community for monetary and food donations.
The poor economy has hurt the organization, they say, and they fear they will be unable to be of as much assistance to Valley families as they may need to be in the coming weeks.
“Our donations are way down,” said Sandi Bailie, executive director. “Money, food, clothing and miscellaneous items are at an all-time low.”

Read the full story here.

Take your places for Shelton's Wesley Village 5K Road Race

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
SHELTON — David Primini, marketing manager at United Methodist Homes’ Wesley Village, hopes runners and walkers of all abilities will turn out next week for a good cause.
He’s race director for the third annual Wesley Village 5K Road Race and Fun Walk set for Aug. 27.
Proceeds will benefit Spooner House homeless shelter and the Wesley Village “Journey of Dreams.”

Read the full story here.

Seymour gets $187G in Matthies grants

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The town has received about $187,000 in grants from the Katharine Matthies Foundation, including $125,000 for improvements at the Matthies mansion.

Read the full story here.

Seymour school board looks into going paperless

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The Board of Education wants to save some money and trees by using paperless meeting agendas.
During its meeting Monday, board members plopped their inches-thick paper packets for the board on the table in front of them. The agenda was especially thick, as it contained information about the district’s staff hirings, retirements and replacements for the coming school year.

Read the full story here.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Shelton man busted after fireworks display goes awry in Seymour

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — A Shelton man whose 4th of July celebration spiraled out of control when embers from the fireworks he lit in a Seymour backyard caused four neighborhood sheds and their contents to go up in flames was arrested this week, police said.
According to Lt. Paul Satkowski, James Joss, 23, of 48 Oak Ave., was arrested Tuesday and charged with third-degree arson and possession of and selling fireworks, which are illegal in Connecticut.

Read the full story here.

Derby cops use Taser on allegedly belligerent Ansonia man arrested after urinating in parking lot

DERBY — An Ansonia man who allegedly urinated in a downtown parking lot became belligerent after being taken into custody, so police used a Taser stun gun on him, police said.

Read more here.

Valley Arts Council show set Saturday in Derby

Ridgefield artist and Valley Arts Council member Elizabeth DeLucia poses next to her painting, "Bee Queen #2," which is part of an exhibit opening Saturday at the Gallery at 37 at 37 Elizabeth St., Derby. Patricia Villers/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Insects will be featured in an exhibit by the Valley Arts Council called “Metamorphosis, Transformed by Art.”
The exhibit is sponsored by PestRx, a Hamden pest-control business, and will open with a reception at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Gallery at 37, at 37 Elizabeth St.
The public can meet local artists and see the work that has a focus on insects of every stripe. The show will run through Sept. 10.

Read the full story here.

Ansonia​ residents face hefty fines for violations of blight rules

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA — The city wants residents to clean up their acts or face some hefty fines.
The reason for the tough stance is blight, especially this time of year, which has become problematic, according to the city’s anti-blight officer, James Tanner.
Tanner said he’s been fielding what seem to be “endless calls regarding blight offenses” from concerned residents.

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Gas leak diverts traffic in Derby

By Register Staff
DERBY — A natural gas leak in the Roosevelt Drive area caused traffic to be diverted for several hours Tuesday morning.
Lt. Salvatore Frosceno said no one was injured. Police got a report of a gas odor, and determined there was a leak, he said.
The Police and Fire departments responded. Traffic was diverted for about four hours while utility workers repaired the leak, police said.
Karen Samide, communications manager with Yankee Gas Co., said the damage to the company’s pipe was in the area of 200 Roosevelt Drive. Yankee Gas workers were on scene at 8:15 a.m. By noon, a crack in a gas main had been repaired and traffic was flowing again, she said. The company is investigating how the main was damaged.
“There was some work being done in the area, not by Yankee Gas, and we are not sure if that resulted in the damage to our pipe,” Samide said.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Library to host chess club

DERBY - The Derby Public Library Young Adult Chess Club invites all young adults ages 11 to 17 to a meeting from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19.
All skill levels are welcome. Participants will learn how the game is played as well as new and varying defensive/offensive strategies.
Julio Maldonado provides superb expertise from a life-long love for the game. Registration is requested.
For information stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482, or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

Derby Elks plan bus trip to casino

DERBY - The Derby Elks Lodge is sponsoring a bus trip to Mohegan Sun casino Sept. 25.
The bus will leave the lodge on Elizabeth Street at 8:30 a.m, arrive at the casino at approximately 10 a.m., depart at approximately 4:30 p.m. and arrive at the Lodge at approximately 6 p.m.
Cost is $33 a person, which includes coffee and doughnuts, three $5 bet coupons, one $15 food coupon, and a light supper upon return.
Checks may be made payable to Derby Elks, and mailed to Candace Keating, 93 North St., Seymour, 06483.
For information call Red Clynch, 203-922-2314 or Keating, 203-592-7546.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Valley Foreclosure bus tour slated Sunday

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA — Owning a piece of the American dream has become a reality for the many prospective homebuyers who have boarded Realtor Frank Hoinsky’s Valley Foreclosure Bus Tour.
Hoinsky, whose last tour took place last month, will hold another free foreclosure tour from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday.
Those interested in attending are asked to meet at Hoinsky’s office at 685 Main St. before 9 a.m.

Read the full story here.

Seymour's Legion Pool slammed again by heavy rain, as footbridge washed away (video)

Heavy rain washed away a footbridge at Legion Pool in Seymour. Jean Falb0-Sosnovich/ For the Register

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Sunday’s torrential rain and flash flooding wreaked further havoc to the Legion Pool nature complex, washing away a 100 foot-long footbridge.
“There is no evidence that the bridge was ever even there,” said Alex Danka, vice president of Seymour Land Trust. “It’s as if someone took it away by helicopter.”

Read the full story and watch video here.

Ansonian cycles 84 miles to benefit cancer research

Rick Mulholland was inspired by his mother's battle with cancer. / Contributed photo

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — Rick Mulholland cycled 84 miles Saturday in the 32nd annual Pan-Massachusetts Challenge to benefit cancer research and treatment, but his journey is not over.
He raised $630, but his goal is $3,000.
“Everything I’m raising goes directly to the cause,” Mulholland said.

Read the full story here.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Cheshire parents' search for son leads to law change (video)

Jan and Bill Smolinski of Cheshire are still looking for answers in the disappearance of their son, Billy, who has been missing for seven years. Peter Casolino/Register

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
When William Smolinski Jr. disappeared seven years ago, police told his parents to wait three days and then file a missing persons report.
That’s according to his mother, Janice Smolinski of Cheshire, who believes her son might have been found, and the case solved, if Waterbury police had begun searching for him immediately when Billy’s family first contacted them.
Police now say they believe Billy, a Waterbury resident who disappeared Aug. 24, 2004, at the age of 31, was murdered. They have searched for his body several places over the years, such as in Shelton and Seymour, with no success.

Read the full story and watch video here.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Ansonia father leads 200-person march in honor of slain son (video)

With grandson Montez Venson, 4, on his shoulders, Shawn Venson 4, on his shoulders, center, leads an anti-violence march to Ansonia City Hall Saturday afternoon. Shawn's son, Darryl Rhys Venson, was shot and killed in March. Brad Horrigan/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — More than 200 people took to the streets Saturday to honor the memory of resident Daryl Rhys Venson, 25, who was gunned down in the city March 9.
Young and old chanted “Stayin’ Alive, 25!” as Venson’s father, Shawn Venson of Ansonia, led them from the corner of Hill Street and Root Avenue to Veterans Park, next to City Hall.

Read the full story and watch video here.

Bar None restaurant opens in Derby

Bar None manager Matt Krugel, left, and owner Ed Platt, both of Ansonia, pose at the bar Friday. Patricia Villers/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — A friendly neighborhood atmosphere will greet patrons at Bar None, a new gathering place downtown.
That’s the word from both the business owner and manager of the bar and restaurant at 87 Elizabeth St., which held a soft opening Friday.
Owner Ed Platt of Ansonia said he wants to provide a comfortable place for friends to gather. The bar has a sports theme, with several television sets on the walls.

Read the full story here.

Friday, August 12, 2011

Seymour Ambulance Association back on 'solid financial ground'

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — A town oversight board said Seymour Ambulance Association is in excellent fiscal condition, following a six-year effort to pay off a $400,000 debt and improve its public image.
“It feels really good to be where we are today,” SAA Executive Director Scott Andrews said. “We’ve been working hard over the last six years to get everything in order and get to a point where the town doesn’t have to worry about whether Seymour Ambulance Association is going to be financially stable.”

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Official eyes filling vacant Tri-Town Plaza space in Seymour

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The town’s new economic development director is hoping to make some headway with the owner of the mostly vacant Tri-Town Plaza.

Read more here.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

2 Seymour residents accused of stealing hundreds of dollars worth of scrap metal

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Police this week charged two residents with stealing hundreds of dollars worth of scrap metal from the town’s industrial park.
According to Lt. Paul Satkowski, police charged Michael Coombs, 29 and Corrine Balazsi, 28, both of 121 North St., with sixth-degree larceny.

Read the full story here.

Office tower planned for River Road in Shelton (map)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SHELTON — Zone changes allowing a five-story office building overlooking the Housatonic River on River Road and a nearby retail plaza were approved this week.
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted Tueday 4-1 in favor of two zone changes for properties at 762 River Road. and 781-785 River Road. The zone changes covert the parcels from light industrial and residential, respectively, to planned development districts. A PDD gives the commission more discretion in what types of uses will be allowed on the property.

Read the full story here.

Shelton cops accuse 3 Bronx men of stealing $5K in goods from Walmart




SHELTON — Police have nabbed three men from the Bronx, N.Y., accused of stealing more than $5,000 in merchandise from Walmart.
The men also had keys from Walmart that can be used to open the cabinets and items used to disable the store security devices, police said today.

Read the full story here.

Valley Community Foundation Awards $170,000 in Scholarships

    Valley Community Foundation Awards $170,000 from Scholarship Funds to Support Educational Pursuits of Local Students   DERBY, CT (Octobe...