Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Seymour High placed in lockdown after student brings facsimile pistol to school

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Seymour High School went into lockdown Wednesday after a student was found with an Airsoft pistol in his possession.
The pistol is similar to a BB gun, police said.


Read the full story here.

Vets appeal to scrap dealers after bronze plaques of Derby Medal of Honor recipient stolen

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — Local veterans are appealing to area scrap metal dealers in Connecticut and beyond with the hopes that three stolen bronze plaques honoring WWII hero Frank P. Witek, a Medal of Honor recipient, may turn up.
The plaques, with two of them weighing about 100 pounds each, were stolen from Witek Memorial Park on Academy Hill Road earlier this week. Lt. Sal Frosceno on Wednesday said police have no leads at this point, but an investigation is ongoing.

Read the full story here.

Trial: Woodbridge woman alleges harassment by family of missing man

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Investigations Editor
mtuccitto@nhregister.com
NEW HAVEN — A Woodbridge woman who has sued relatives of missing Waterbury man William “Billy” Smolinski Jr. told a judge Tuesday that the family harassed her by following her and putting up missing person signs where she worked and lived.

Read more here.

Seymour's Chatfield School students move into new classroom wing

Chatfield students head for their new classroom wing. Jean Falbo-Sosnovich/For the Register.

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The excitement in the air at Chatfield School was hard to contain Tuesday morning, as students and staff moved into their brand new 30,000 square-foot classroom wing.
Under construction for the past 13 months, the classroom wing made its debut to squeals of delight by students in grades K-5.
Principal David Olechna stood outside the new entrance of the addition, giving each student who passed into the new wing a high five.

Read the full story here.

Chatfield's new classroom wing. Jean Falbo-Sosnovich/For the Register.

Hope dwindles for missing Housatonic River boater

Family members comfort each other Tuesday at the search site near the Housatonic River. Melanie Stengel/Register
 
By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
A two-day search for a missing Woodbridge man, whose boat capsized Monday on the Housatonic River, turned into a recovery operation Tuesday, officials said.
The search was suspended about 4:30 p.m. and will resume Wednesday morning, according to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. DEEP will return along with the state police dive team, canine units and a side-scan sonar from Fairfield Fire Department, DEEP spokesman Dwayne Gardner said.

Read the full story here.

3 plaques for Medal of Honor recipient missing from Derby's Witek Park


By Register Staff 
DERBY — Police are investigating the disappearance of three bronze plaques from Witek Memorial Park on Academy Hill Road.
The plaques recognize World War II Medal of Honor recipient Frank P. Witek.
The incident was reported Tuesday morning. The estimated value is unknown.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 203-735-7811, ext. 1

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Church to sell fir trees, wreaths

SEYMOUR - Great Hill United Methodist Church, 225 Great Hill Road, will sell freshly cut, locally grown, well-shaped fir trees (6 – 8 foot tall) and freshly “Made in Connecticut” Frazier fir wreaths. 
            All trees are priced from $40 to $45 and 16”or 20” wreaths with holly and mixed greens are $18 to $22. The trees will be on sale at the church beginning Saturday from3 to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11:15 a.m. to 2  p.m.  They will also be on sale from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 10 and 11:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 11.
Wreath orders may be placed with Joe or Pat Andreana, 203-888-0489, and can be picked up at the church at the tree selling times.
            This project is a fundraiser for the Mission and Ministry budget, which funds local and national missions.

Rotary to deliver sand to seniors, disabled

    Derby-Shelton Rotary Club members will be delivering five-gallon buckets of sand and salt mixture Dec. 15 to senior citizens and disabled individuals residing in Derby and Shelton.
    The mixture is to be used to spread on walkways and driveways during the winter.
    To receive a bucket, residents may sign up at the Derby or Shelton senior centers or contact Kim Ryan at Curtiss-Ryan Honda dealership at 203-929-1484 ext. 227 or at kim@curtissryan.com.
     Individuals residing in housing developments that already provide sand are not eligible.

Candlelight service planned

OXFORD - There will be a candlelight service of Lessons and Carols at 3 p.m. Dec. 18 at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 421 Oxford Road. The community is invited.
Bring a non-perishable item of food to share with the Seymour-Oxford Food Bank.
Coffee hour will follow the service. For information call 203-888-6388

Missing man on Housatonic River identified as 75-year-old from Woodbridge (video)

 
Rescuers search the Housatonic River Tuesday morning. Jean Falbo-Sosnovich/For the Register

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
and The Associated Press
Connecticut authorities have identified a 75-year-old Woodbridge man whose boat was found overturned on Lake Housatonic.
The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said the search is resuming Tuesday morning for Richard N. Fiske. His overturned boat was found Monday on the Oxford-Seymour town line.

Read the full story here.

Derby unsure who'll be sworn in at tax board ceremony Saturday

By Phyllis Swebilius
Register Staff
DERBY — The issue over who will be sworn in Saturday to the tax board remains up in the air.
The problem surfaced last week when Republican Town Committee Chairman Tony Szewczyk wrote to Town Clerk Laura A. Wabno that he had understood the Democratic Town Committee had intended to nominate James R. Butler to run for the board, not his son, James J. Butler.

Read the full story here.

Ansonia PZC rejects Castle Lane subdivision

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA — The Planning and Zoning Commission Monday rejected a controversial subdivision proposed for Castle Lane, citing concerns for public health and safety.
The commission had until mid-January to vote, but Chairman Bart Flaherty said after hearing several months worth of testimony from the developer, the public, Seymour zoning officials and the city engineer, and poring through numerous letters and documentation, the commission was armed with enough information to reach a decision.

Read the full story here.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Crews search for missing fisherman on Housatonic River

Crews were searching late Monday for a man who may have gone overboard in the Housatonic River. Newtown, Seymour, state police, DEEP and Coast Guard were on scene, according to Oxford Resident Trooper Michael Dyki. Photo by Daniela Forte
 
By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
State police and emergency crews from several Valley towns and beyond searched Monday afternoon and evening for a missing fisherman whose boat capsized in the Housatonic River.
But by 8 p.m. officials were planning to call off the search until morning.

Read the full story here.

Report: Snooki of 'Jersey Shore' visits Ansonia

“Jersey Shore” cast member Snooki ate dinner at Antonio’s Restaurant in Ansonia Friday night, the Valley Independent Sentinel reports.

Cultural Commission to host tree lighting

    ANSONIA - The Ansonia Cultural Commission will host the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday at Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street. The park is adjacent to City Hall.
    There will be caroling, and free refreshments. Santa will also make an appearance.
    The Ansonia High School marching band will lead a parade of dignitaries and participants down Main Street to the park
     All residents are invited.

AHS to hold 'Winter in the City' concert

ANSONIA -The Ansonia High School Music Department will hold its annual winter concert, “Winter in the City” at 7 p.m. Dec.14 in the Ruth Feinberg-Connors Auditorium at Ansonia High School, 20 Pulaski Highway. 
Admission is $4 per person or free with the donation of one new winter accessory for the Warming Tree sponsored by the Student Government. Items donated benefit the Tinney Center and Birmingham Group Health Services. 
The concert will feature the mixed chorus and concert band as well as various soloists and small ensembles. 
Treat yourself to an evening of music during the holiday season and help those less fortunate at the same time.

Thanksgiving Day race draws more than 600 participants

    Just over 600 people of all ages and sizes completed the 10th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K Road Race through the downtown streets of Shelton and Derby.
     For Joe Poulsen, it was his first Commodore Hull Thanksgiving Day 5K Road Race win while for Kim Battipaglia, it's almost old hat - as she captured the Women's Division title for the fifth straight year.
    On a picture perfect morning for a race, Honorary Starter Dominick Thomas, Jr. fired the starting pistol.
     A pack of about 10 runners sprinted away from the rest of the field and set the early pace until the runners crossed the Derby-Shelton Bridge. At that point Poulsen, an Oxford resident and Tim Milenkovich of Ansonia started to move away from the pack. By the turn around at the Derby Public Library, it was clearly a two-man race as Poulsen and Milenkovich battled for the lead. Poulsen started to assert himself as they turned the corner from Elizabeth Street onto Main Street and back over the Derby-Shelton Bridge.
    As they headed down Howe Avenue in Shelton, Poulsen opened space between himself and Milenkovich. That trend continued as they ran along the Riverwalk and onto Canal Street.     When he had hit the tape in a time of 16:12, Poulsen had opened up a 17-second gap over Milenkovich.
    Clark Shurtleff of Bethany finished third in a time of 16:44. Brothers, and former winners, Mike and Phil Padilla sandwiched fourth and sixth place finishes around Bart Wasliolek's fifth place finish among the 604 runners who officially finished this year's race.
    Battipaglia's time of 20:07 was not as fast as her 18:58 a year ago, but it was more than enough to top Lauren Flament's runner-up time of 21:19 in the Women's Division.
    The Commodore Hull Thanksgiving Day Race Committee has staged the event for 10 years in an effort to keep alive the history of one of the great heroes of the two towns, Commodore Isaac Hull.
    It was Hull who skippered the U.S.S. Constitution in its famous victory over the British frigate HMS Guerriere in the War of 1812. Considered one of the greatest wins in U.S. Naval annals, the victory also resulted in the Constitution’s more memorable nickname – Old Ironsides. The ship is the oldest commissioned ship in the U.S. Navy and is stationed in Boston to this day.     The event is also designed to bring people back to the historic downtowns of the two cities at a time when both areas are being redeveloped.  A side benefit of the race is the revenue that is raised to support the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. The event historically raises about $10,000 for the club.
     For full coverage, visit the official race Website at: http://www.electronicvalley.org/derby/HullRace/.

Hoop shoot slated at club

    ANSONIA - The Derby Elks Lodge will host a Hoop Shoot at 1 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley Smilow Clubhouse, 28 Howard Ave.
    The event is free for boys and girls ages 8-13 (ages determined by April 1, 2012).
    For information contact Candace, 203-592-7546 or e-mail at kandiekane1977@aol.com.

Holiday festivities on tap in Seymour this weekend

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The Culture and Arts Commission, in conjunction with the First Saturday event, will usher in the holidays this weekend with Santa Claus, cookies, caroling and other festivities geared to get everyone in the spirit.
On Saturday, festivities will kick off with downtown merchants and restaurants keeping their doors open until 9 p.m. for shoppers to start checking things off their lists.

Read the full story here.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Classic films charm Osborne Homestead Museum in Derby for holiday

Mannequins representing a little girl and Santa Claus depict a scene from the 1947 movie classic, "Miracle on 34th Street" at the Osborne Homestead Museum in Derby. The house is decorated and open for tours during the holiday season. Patricia Villers/Register


By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Classic holiday movies take center stage this season at the Osborne Homestead Museum.
Area garden clubs have once again decorated the stately Greek Revival house for Christmas. The house was the lifelong home of businesswoman and philanthropist Frances Eliza Osborne Kellogg.
The homestead was part of a dairy farm Kellogg took over after her father died. She willed the 350 acres that are now Osbornedale State Park to the state.

Read the full story here.

Friday, November 25, 2011

FOI hearing on Seymour detective's demotion may be delayed

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — A state Freedom of Information Commission hearing on whether three police commissioners held an illegal meeting regarding discipline of a demoted detective may be postponed next week until the town’s new administration comes on board.
The FOI hearing between Detective Ronald Goodmaster and the Board of Police Commissioners was scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Dec. 2 in Hartford, FOI spokesman Tom Hennick confirmed Tuesday.

Read the full story here.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Valley pupils get to see mobile weather lab (video)


Pre-Schoolers in the TEAM early education program get an introduction to the Storm Team 8 Mobile Weather Lab with meteorologist Erica Grow outside their classroom. Peter Casolino/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
Oh, the weather outside was (almost) frightful, but that didn’t deter News 8 meteorologist Erica Grow Wednesday from bringing the Storm Team 8 Mobile Weather Lab to two TEAM Inc. early-education sites in the Valley.
TEAM Inc. is a community action agency based in Derby.
Grow’s first stop was Irving School in Derby, where a class of preschoolers walked outside in the 40-degree chill to view the mobile weather lab.

Read the full story here.

Appellate court upholds ruling against Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti

By Register Staff
SHELTON — An appellate court in Hartford this month upheld a ruling against Mayor Mark A. Lauretti in connection with a lawsuit brought by Wiacek Farms LLC.
The court Nov. 15 upheld a ruling by Superior Court Judge Bruce Levin in Milford.
Wiacek Farms also had sued the city, then-Board of Aldermen President John Anglace, Zoning Enforcement Officer Thomas H. Dingle and City Engineer Robert F. Kulacz. They did not join Lauretti’s appeal.

Read the full story here.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Seymour theft suspect goes in river, cops go in after him

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — An Oxford man caught stealing $225 worth of merchandise from Stop & Shop led police on a wet and wild chase Tuesday night that ultimately ended in the chilly waters of the Naugatuck River, police said.
John Demartino, 29, of 35 Reality Road, Oxford, was charged with interfering with an officer, sixth-degree larceny and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arraigned in Superior Court in Derby Wednesday, where his case was continued until Dec. 21. Court officials said Demartino was being held in lieu of $10,000 bail.

Read the full story here.

Seymour High teachers who used Bunsen burners to warm science labs won't face criminal charges

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Criminal charges will not be filed against two teachers who used Bunsen burners to warm up the science labs at Seymour High School last month, according to police.
“There was a violation of Board of Education policy, but there was no criminal aspect involved,” Lt. Paul Satkowski said Wednesday.

Read the full story here.

Derby company helps Valley needy

 
Valley United Way’s Corporate Volunteer Council provides holiday meals to area underprivileged. Needy families and individuals are identified by Valley United Way agencies and matched up with corporate volunteers who adopt them for the holidays providing gifts, food, and monetary donations. Greco & Haines, Inc. of Derby in conjunction with D & S Pump and Supply donated 13 fresh turkeys to the Safe Home in Shelton and St. Vincent de Paul Helping Hands of the Valley in Derby for Thanksgiving. Pictured from left are Laurel Greco Vicidomino, director of Resource Development at Valley United Way; Jeanne Connors, President & CEO of Greco & Haines; Joe Vicidomino, dispatcher at Greco & Haines; and Dave Dretel, vice president,  D & S Pump and Supply. Laurel Vicidomino said, “Helping the needy was always very important to my father, Guy Greco. We are privileged we can continue his tradition.”
 

Ballot mistake throws Derby board for a loop: Was father elected, or his son?

By Phyllis Swebilius
Register Staff
DERBY — A single letter is causing confusion as to who will be seated on the Board of Apportionment and Taxation next month.
It’s the difference between a J and an R.
The issue was brought to light by Tony Szewczyk, chairman of the Republican Town Committee.
In a letter this week to Town Clerk Laura A. Wabno, Szewczyk said he had understood that the Democratic Town Committee had intended to nominate James R. Butler to run for the board, not his son, James J. Butler.

Read the full story here.

Valley agency gives needy a helping hand

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Alice Massa of Shelton, whose husband died this year, said Tuesday that getting assistance from St. Vincent De Paul Helping Hands of the Valley meant a lot to her.
The nonprofit runs a thrift shop and food pantry. It held its annual Thanksgiving distribution Tuesday.
Massa, who lost her job recently, said she also was injured in a fall this year. She has two grown children.


Read the full story here.

Seymour releases OSHA report detailing violations at town buildings

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Town officials will try to get more than $5,000 in fines abated for a variety of “serious” violations found at town buildings by the state’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
First Selectman Paul Roy this week released a copy of the OSHA report to the New Haven Register, after earlier denying a request. Roy had said because the document was a pending legal matter, he was not at liberty to release it.

Read the full story here.

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Derby plans tree lighting Friday

    DERBY - Santa Claus is comin’ to town Friday.
    The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday on the Green.
    The Cultural Commission is hosting the event, which will feature performances by several choruses.
    Resident Marc Weissman will play Christmas music on the piano in between singing acts.
    Santa will arrive and distribute candy canes to children.
    Persons who bring a new, unwrapped toy for TEAM, Inc.‘s Toys 4 Kids will be treated to free hot chocolate.

'Honest Abe' comes a-calling in Derby (video)

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Abraham Lincoln, aka Steve Wood of Claremont, N.H., brought history alive for the Derby Historical Society Monday night.
Wood, who strongly resembles the 16th president, presented the first-person program at the society’s 21st annual Thanksgiving reception.
He described Lincoln’s early life, his debates with Stephen Douglas and the Civil War.

Read the full story here.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Milford man treated for injuries in Derby crash

DERBY — A Milford man was treated and released from Yale-New Haven Hospital after being injured early Saturday in a one-car crash.
James Rutkowski, 34, of Honeycomb Lane, Milford, was injured when he lost control of his vehicle at about 1:15 a.m. at the juncture of Sentinel Hill, Academy Hill and David Humphreys roads, Lt. Salvatore Frosceno said. Rutkowski was alone in the car.
Police said Rutkowski lost control of the car, hit a utility pole and broke it. The car rolled on its side and landed along the pole’s guide wires, according to police.
Rescue crews extricated Rutkowski from the vehicle.
The investigation is ongoing, Frosceno said. No charges had been filed Monday.

Ansonia man dies in crash on Merritt Parkway in Fairfield

 An Ansonia man died Monday morning after he swerved off of the Merritt Parkway in Fairfield and struck a tree, according to state police.
Kevin Rascoe, 44, of 107 Prindle Ave. in Ansonia, was traveling south on Route 15, south of the Congress Street overpass in Fairfield, when he swerved to the left, sideswiped the cement Jersey barrier and drifted onto the grass shoulder into a tree, police said.
According to police, Rascoe, who was driving a 2006 Acura, was not wearing a seatbelt.

Elks Lodge plans holiday dinner

    DERBY - The Derby Elks Lodge will hold its holiday dinner, featuring surf and turf (prime rib and stuffed shrimp) at 7 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Lodge, 73 Elizabeth St.
    Cost is $20.
    For information call Candace, 203-592-7546.

Teacher gets high-tech 'Jump Start' in Ansonia

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — John C. Mead School teacher Sue Matican wants to give her 23 first-graders a jump start when it comes to using the latest technology.
That’s why she applied for an equipment grant from DYMO/Mimio, an interactive teaching technology provider.
Matican said she was thrilled when she learned this fall she was one of only 10 educators, and the only one from Connecticut, to receive a Jump Start Grant.

Read the full story here.

Scout leader 'thrilled' to serve as grand marshal for Seymour Christmas Parade

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Santa Claus is coming to help kick off the annual Seymour Christmas Parade, which has been a tradition here for 40 years.
The parade will step off at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Community Center, 20 Pine St., wind its way up Main Street and Route 67, and end at the entrance to French Memorial Park. The rain/snow date is Sunday.


Read the full story here.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Ansonia pupils learn art of giving as they donate to food bank


Ansonia's John G. Prendergast School third-graders, from left, Lisa Marie Shehada, Andrew Bosworth, Christopher Sheehy, Aiya Chahid and Sean McDermott wait to donate staples to the Kathleen Samela Memorial Food Bank at Christ Church in Ansonia. Patricia Villers/Register


By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — John G. Prendergast third-graders have learned about helping the less fortunate by taking part in Peapod’s Kids Give Back program.
Five students accompanied by parents and third-grade teacher Joanne Wiacek Friday visited Area Congregations Together’s food bank at Christ Church.
The students, one from each of the five third-grade classrooms, helped unload bags of non-perishable food items from the Peapod delivery truck and bring them inside the food bank.


Read the full story here.

Ansonia community meals benefit set Nov. 30

ANSONIA —Antonio’s, 314 Main St. is holding a Master’s Table Community Meals Fundraiser from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Nov. 30.
Mention that you are dining for Master’s Table and 20 percent of your food purchase will be donated to Master’s Table Community Meals.
Master’s Table serves monthly free meals to the Valley community.
For more information, call 203-732-8882.

Shelton schools chief's contract extended (document)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SHELTON — Superintendent of Schools Freeman Burr has “proved his worth” since coming onboard two years ago, school officials said, which is why they say approving a one-year contract extension for him, with an incentive to earn a $7,500 retirement bonus, was a no-brainer.
“He has kept the budget in check for the past two years, and made sure we have fallen within the allotted amount, and kept us from running a shortfall,” said Board of Education Chairman Tim Walsh. “We have moved ahead, thanks to him.”

Read the full story here.

Land use issues delay work on Seymour fish bypass

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — A couple of glitches regarding land acquisition are holding up construction of the long-awaited fish bypass project slated for the Naugatuck River.
Chuck Lee of the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection told the Board of Selectmen this week about issues preventing the project from getting started.


Read the full story here.

Decision looming on housing plan in Ansonia

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA — The fate of a controversial subdivision proposed for Castle Lane could be decided within the next few weeks.
The Planning and Zoning Commission Monday closed a public hearing that had been ongoing since September regarding developer Mark Romano’s proposal to extend Castle Lane and build 23 new single-family homes there.

Read the full story here.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

West Haven motorcyclist's estate sues 2 drivers

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
SHELTON — The estate of a West Haven motorcyclist killed in a March 2010 crash with a pickup truck has filed a lawsuit seeking $3.5 million in damages.
The estate of Bruce Tischer filed the action in Superior Court in New Haven against the driver of the pickup truck, Duane Roe, 42, of Shelton.

Read the full story here.

Thanksgiving dinners planned in Valley

    Valley organizations are offering holiday meals to the community next week.
    In Ansonia, The Greater Valley Salvation Army will host its annual Thanksgiving Dinner from 1-3 p.m. Sunday. The free dinner will be served at The Greater Valley Salvation Army, 26 Lester St., Ansonia.  For information call 203-736-0707.
    On Tuesday the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley invites all senior citizens to its 32nd Annual Turkey Dinner at the Shelton Senior Center, 81 Wheeler St,
    The evening begins at 5 p.m.. Guests will be treated to a full turkey dinner, dancing, and door prizes.
     Seniors are asked to help support a toy drive by bringing a new, unwrapped toy as well.
     RSVP to Kathy at the Senior Center, 203-924-9324.

Chamber of Commerce presents Gold Seal awards

    The Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce recently honored several residents at its 40th annual Gold Seal Awards dinner at the Inn at Villa Bianca in Seymour.
    The Gold Seal is presented to the region's business and community leaders who exemplify the spirit of selflessness and volunteerism.
    Norman Santa, 1997 Gold Seal Recipient, received the 2011 Platinum Award.  This award is presented to a past Gold Seal recipient who is still dedicated to volunteering on behalf of the Valley community.
    Santa was a mentor in the Shelton School System, director and president of the Housatonic Council, Boy Scouts of America and director and chair of the Nominating and Building Committees for the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley.
    He was also a director with the Hewitt Foundation, United Methodist Homes and a corporator at Griffin Hospital and the Valley United Way.
    The 2011 Gold Seal recipients are: Suzanne Reilly, Randal Ritter and Naomi
Wallace. 
    Reilly is a corporator with Birmingham Group Health Services and Griffin Hospital as well as serving on the advisory committees for the Griffin-Yale
Prevention Research Center, Volunteer Action Center, The Greater Valley Salvation Army, Children and Poverty. She is also involved with the Ansonia Rotary Club, Ansonia School Readiness Program, Valley Council on Philanthropy, and the Ansonia Prevention Policy Board.
    Ritter has worked with Troop 3 of the Housatonic Council , Boy Scouts of America, for many years.
    He is active with the Derby Historical Society, as a board member and past president of the Society. He was instrumental in helping to mark the historical trolley line throughout Derby.
    Ritter serves as committee chair for Venture Crew 1762, which involves youths ages 14-20 who share an interest in local history. In addition, for several years, he was responsible for organizing Derby Day for the Derby Cultural Commission.
    Wallace has made her career in positions that support individuals in the community. She is a lifelong member of Clinton AME Zion Church.
    Wallace is the mayoral appointee to TEAM, Inc., chairwoman of the Board of the Valley chapter, American Red Cross, president of the Riverside Tenants Association, and life member and parliamentarian of NAACP Branch 2000. She is a member of the Julian Augustus Taylor Scholarship Committee.
    The 2011 Silver Medal Award went to the Youth Leadership Council of the Valley United Way.

Oxford dentist's 28th annual food drive is a big hit (video)

The Sofferman family, and a friend, collect food Wednesday.  Jean Falbo-Sosnovich/Register

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
Dozens of kind-hearted folks dropped off frozen turkeys and all the fixings necessary to create a hearty Thanksgiving feast for those less fortunate during a local dentist’s annual food drive Wednesday.
During a three-hour collection outside his Smile Dental Center in Oxford, Dr. Bruce Sofferman, his wife, Deborah, daughter Sophia and turkey mascot John Trovarelli waved on passing motorists in hopes of collecting enough food to make Thanksgiving brighter for those in need.

Read the full story here.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Waterbury motorist was drunk in fatal wrong-way Seymour crash, cops say (document)

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
SEYMOUR — A motorist who drove the wrong way on Route 8 in April and crashed into an oncoming vehicle, killing its driver, was intoxicated, according to state police.
Police have charged the wrong-way driver, Zakei Barnes, 35, of 140 Fulkerson Drive, Apt. 4A, Waterbury, with second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle, operating under the influence, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, and driving the wrong way on a divided highway.

Read the full story here.

Ansonia-based veterans' aid group in fix-up mode (video)

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — Now that No Vet Left Behind Inc. has what president Mary Porter calls a permanent home, the next step is renovating the new location.
The nonprofit recently moved its Stars and Stripes Thrift Shoppe and food pantry from 44 Bridge St. to a 4,000-square-foot space at 14 Jewett St.

Read the full story here.

Seymour addressing OSHA violations, first selectman says

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — The town may face fines for various violations found during a random inspection by OSHA in June of town buildings, unless officials can prove the violations have been eliminated.
First Selectman Paul Roy said during Tuesday’s Board of Selectmen meeting that “98 percent” of the items cited by Connecticut’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration division have since been addressed and corrected.

Read the full story here.

No trick: Seymour plans November Halloween treat

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Trick or treat? In November?
That’s what town officials are hoping kids do, as they invite them to don those Halloween costumes for the rescheduled “Seymour Trunk or Treat” event Friday.
And, no, kids won’t be trolling for turkeys, but candy, and lots of it, that they missed out on when the freakish autumn nor’easter, dubbed Alfred, stole Halloween from them.


Read the full story here.

In Derby, Gerckens still comes out the winner after recount

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
DERBY — A recount conducted Tuesday for a 2nd Ward aldermanic seat produced the same result as election night, with Arthur Gerckens winning a seat on the Board of Aldermen.
The recount was held at City Hall Tuesday morning and took about two hours.


Read the full story here.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

School hosts service, breakfast for veterans

Assumption School, Ansonia hosted a Veterans Day Prayer Service and Breakfast at Assumption Church, Ansonia.  Students were encouraged to invite a veteran to the event. Members of the Catholic War Veterans Post 1562 in Derby and Assumption parishioners were also invited. Students participated in the prayer service and eighth graders served breakfast. / Contributed photo

Derby High student, 14, sets off pepper spray in classroom, faces multiple charges

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
DERBY — A Derby High School student faces multiple charges after setting off pepper spray in a classroom Tuesday, police said.
Lt. Sal Frosceno said police and fire department personnel were summoned to the high school, on Nutmeg Avenue, at 12:10 p.m. on a report of a foul odor.

Read the full story here

Derby-based TEAM, Inc. launches its annual toy drive

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
Tis the season to help make the holidays brighter for Valley children.
Diane Stroman, vice president, development, for Derby-based TEAM Inc., said the nonprofit launched its annual drive to collect new toys for children from newborns to age 12.
She said the poor economy has caused an increase in the number of parents seeking help.

Read the full story here.

Seymour shop owner again takes aim at lack of parking downtown and parking violators

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR - A fed-up downtown business owner, who says police aren't doing enough to ticket parking violators, brought his concerns once again to the Board of Police Commissioners.
Gus Hasiotis, who has owned Haroula's Coffee Shop at 29 Bank St. for nearly 24 years, expressed his continued frustration during last week's police commission meeting, but fears his pleas are falling on deaf ears.


Read the full story here.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Girl Scouts learn anti-drug lessons

    ANSONIA - Girl Scout Troop 60500, with the help of Detective Gerald Tenney of the Ansonia Police Department, earned the Drug Enforcement Administration Red Ribbon Week patch.
    The mission of the Red Ribbon Week Patch is designed to provide Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts the ability to learn anti-drug activities in commemoration of Red Ribbon Week.
    The initiative seeks to empower young people to create, embrace, and strengthen their drug free beliefs. DEA aims to award a Red Ribbon Week Patch and Certificate of Participation to the first 20,000 qualifying Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

Valley's Spooner House food drive to begin

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
A Valley tradition of helping those in need at Thanksgiving kicks off this week with turkey and food drives.
The annual food collection to benefit the Spooner House homeless shelter, which is run by Area Congregations Together, starts Wednesday, courtesy of Dr. Bruce Sofferman, his wife, Deborah, and daughter, Sophia.

Read the full story here

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Derby BBQ getting a taste of success


Michael Grant, third from left, cuts the ribbon on his new restaurant, "Smoke & Bones," with family and dignitaries during the grand opening ceremony for the new barbecue eatery. They are, from left to right: David and Gail Grant, Sarah Grant, Derby Mayor Anthony Staffieri, Mary Porter, Bill Purcell and John O'Neill. Peter Casolino/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Business has been smokin’ at a new eatery in town.
Grant’s Smoke & Bones BBQ opened last week, and so many people came through the doors looking for Southern barbecue that the eatery ran out of food, owner Michael Grant said during the recent grand opening celebration.
He said he appreciated customers’ patience as he, his wife, Sarah, and the staff work to get the kinks out.

Read the full story here.

100 spectators turn out as Derby honors veterans

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Sacrifices made by military personnel and their families were recognized Friday on the Green as local veterans’ organizations marked Veterans Day.
About 100 people turned out for the annual program sponsored by John H. Collins Post 24, American Legion.
Erwin “Gus” Williams, post commander, was master of ceremonies.

Read the full story here.

Derby veteran chosen to get free heating oil


For Private Michael Dillon of Derby, with Charlie, the dog he rescued while on tour in Afghanistan, Veterans Day got a bit warmer, thanks to Economy Fuel's Heat For Heroes program. Pictured Friday with Dillon and Charlie are from left, Economy Fuel Managing Director, Mike Gill, Economy Fuel deliveryman and Vietnam veteran, Bela Garrison, Sr., and Jessica Proctor of Seymour, who nominated Dillon for the chance to receive $1,500 of free heating oil this winter. / Contributed photo

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Pvt. Michael Dillon, a Connecticut National Guard veteran of the war in Afghanistan, received a warm thank-you on Veterans Day Friday for his service.
Dillon, 22, a Hilltop resident, is the first recipient of $1,500 worth of free heating oil from the Heat for Heroes program offered by Economy Fuel of Bridgeport.

Read the full story here.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Developer in Shelton corruption case finishes prison term

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
SHELTON — Fairfield County developer Robert D. Scinto finished his six-month federal prison term and was released Tuesday.
Scinto begins two years of supervised release, which includes six months of home confinement with electronic monitoring.
Scinto is allowed to go to work. Reached there Thursday, Scinto declined to comment.

Read the full story here.

Valley students take time to honor veterans

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — St. Mary-St. Michael School eighth-grader Trent Nayve of Seymour read an essay about Veterans Day to a group of veterans, as well as students and staff.
The school paused Thursday as it does each year to honor local veterans in advance of Veterans Day, which is today.

Read the full story here.

Register learns details of Derby educator’s departure (document)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — A former Derby Middle School administrator arrested in September for allegedly bringing narcotics to school cannot sue the Board of Education, recoup attorney fees or seek employment in the city schools under an agreement recently reached between him and the school board.
The school district gave the general release and settlement agreement regarding William LaRovera to the New Haven Register earlier this week, following a Freedom of Information Act request to Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tracy.

Read the full story here.

Recount slated in 1 Derby aldermanic race

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
DERBY — The city clerk’s office will conduct a recount next week for one aldermanic race at the request of a candidate for the Board of Aldermen who lost by a slim margin.
However, while Democratic mayoral candidate Daniel Foley Jr. on Wednesday requested a recount after losing to incumbent Republican Anthony Staffieri, the race wasn’t close enough to meet the guidelines for a recount, according to City Clerk Laura Wabno.

Read the full story here.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Festival of Trees, craft fair slated at Wesley Village

SHELTON - The annual Festival of Trees will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 19 and 20 at Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave.
The Festival of Trees benefits TEAM’s Valley Interfaith Caregivers program, a network of volunteers who provide support services and companionship to residents 60 and older and disabled people of any age.
Service area includes Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Oxford  Seymour, and Shelton.
Interfaith volunteers visit residents, as well as check in by phone, drive them to medical appointments,  shop, do light housework and cooking, yard work, minor home repairs, and help with paperwork. Volunteers also refer residents to community resources and services.
The program allows seniors and people with disabilities to live independently in their homes for as long as possible. All services are free and are rendered regardless of income, religion and age of a person living with a disability.
Last year, Festival of Trees raised $6,000 for the Caregivers program. Donors provided 21 beautifully decorated trees and seven wreaths that were won by visitors.
Visitors buy raffle tickets and drop the tickets in boxes in front of the tree they hope to win.Visitors also will be able to buy holiday items at the Wesley Village Crafts Fair while admiring the trees and wreaths donated to Festival of Trees.

Seymour World War II veteran finally gets his high school diploma

Seymour World War II veteran Edward Williams finally holds his high school diploma. Jean Falbo-Sosnovich/Register

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — It took 65 years, but World War II veteran Edward Harold Williams finally received his high school diploma Wednesday.
Williams, 84, flanked by two dozen family members, was granted his long- overdue diploma and a royal blue mortarboard from Seymour High School during a special presentation in his honor at Wednesday‘s Board of Education meeting.


Read the full story here.

Seymour event to benefit Christmas gift fund for local troops

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — To commemorate Veterans Day, residents are asked to support local troops.
The Seymour Pride Committee is holding a family night from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Seymour Community Center, 20 Pine St.
Admission is $2, with all proceeds benefiting the town’s Richard R. Pearson Memorial Fund, which provides annual Christmas checks to Seymour service men and women

Read the full story here.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Wild turkeys are topic of preschool session

ANSONIA - Parents and adult caregivers are invited to bring infants and toddlers to the Ansonia Nature Center at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 18 for a Park Tots program about wild turkeys.
Join Ranger Stefanie to learn about Connecticut's big Tom Turkey and his call. Participants will be able to the explore the park's trails for signs of turkeys and listen for their calls. The center is at 10 Deerfield Road.
Tuition is $6 a session for each family ($4 for family-level Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. members and Ansonia residents).
Call 203-736-1053 to register.

Night hike on tap at nature center

ANSONIA - A Full White Frost Moon Hike will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road.
Park rangers Wendy and Martin will lead a trail walk by the light of the full moon.
The hike is designed for families and adults. The group will use night vision and all their senses for this after-dark exploration.
At the end of the walk hikers will gather at the picnic pavilion around an open fire and roast marshmallows.
Call 203-736-1053 to register for this free program.
 

Valley vote tallies

ANSONIA - Here are the voting results for winners in Tuesday’s municipal elections.
Democrat Mayor James T. Della Volpe, unopposed: (1,940).
Board of Aldermen: First Ward: Democrats Edward Adamowski (210) and Robert Duffus (182); Second Ward: Republicans Phillip Tripp (271) and Charles Stowe ((207) ; Third Ward: Democrats Joseph Jeanette (212) and Patricia Macero (222); Fourth Ward: Democrats Jerome Fainer (108) and Robert Beall (109); Fifth Ward: Republican Joan Radin (164) and Democrat Howard Madigosky; Sixth Ward: Democrats Scott Nihill (333) and Eugene Sharkey (330); Seventh Ward: Republican John Marini (553) and Democrat David A. Knapp (511).
Democrat Town and City Clerk Madeline H. Bottone, unopposed (2,133); Democrat Town and City Treasurer Ronald V. Greski (2,045).
Board of Education: Democrat Edward Sharkey Jr. (1,409); Republican William Nimons (1,213); Democrat Carmen Pitney, Sr. (1,422); Republican Robert J. Caruso (1,136).
Sheriff: Democrat Sean Rowley (1,764); Republican Peter Gujski (1,129); Democrat Timothy Holman (1,725); Democrat Louis Macero (1,799).

SEYMOUR -
First Selectman: Paul Roy (D) 1,555, Kurt Miller (R)1,910*, Jeanne Loda (D, Petitioning) 157
Board of Selectmen: Philip Wilhelmy, III (D) 1,466, Theresa Conroy (D) 1,927*, Karen Stanek (D) 1,664*, Hargurprett Singh (D) 1,037
Al Bruno (R) 1,593*, Gary Bruce (R) 1,706*, Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R) 2,276*, AnnMarie Drugonis (R) 1,580*
Board of Police Commissioners: Howard Simpson (D) 1,412, Howard Enquist (D) 1,206, Thomas Schutte (D) 1,285, Steve Chucta (R) 2,031*, Lucy McConologue (R) 1,811*, John Popik (R) 1,689*
Board of Education: Kristen Harmeling (D)1,148*, Saundra Gesek (D) 1,391*, Jay Hatfield (R) 1,730*, Jennifer Magri (R) 1,431*, Paul Sponheimer (Petitioning) 959
Library Directors: Loren Coe (D) 1,390, Robert Potash (D) 1,377, Susan Strumello (D) 1,704*,
Nancy Cretella (R) 1,721*, Paul Thompson (R) 1,598*, Al Yagovane (R) 1,595
Board of Assessment Appeals: Anthony LoPresti (D) 1,789*, Albert Ermer (D) 1,048, Christine Conroy (R) 2,078*, Alex Danka (R) 1,495*
Board of Finance: (4 years)Jeffrey Coe (D) 1,392, John Stelma (D) 1,372, Jason Weaving (D) 1,336, Peter Jezierny (R) 1,795*, Michele Pavlik (R) 1,926*, Dave Bitso (R) 1,840*
Board of Finance: (2 years) Karen Ziomek (D) 1,284, Joan McDonnell (D) 1,359, Trish Danka (R) 1,894*, Ed Wasikowski (R) 1,960*
Board of Finance: (alternate) Richard Grudzias (D) 2,014*, Elizabeth Tift (R) 2,254*, Kim Welch (R) 2,253*

SHELTON - Totals, all candidates, * denotes winner:
Mayor: Mark Lauretti * (6,589), Chris Jones (3,586)
Aldermen, Ward 1: Faith Hack (914), John Finn *(1,422), Anthony Simonetti * (1,480), Gene Kierce (976)
Aldermen, Ward 2: Ralph Matto (1,189), Elizabeth Ogden (1,145), Stanley Kudej * (1,778), Eric McPherson * (1,741)
Aldermen, Ward 3: Remy Steiner-Kocurek (627), Randy Jennings (506), John Anglace * (964), Lynne Farrell * (985)
Aldermen, Ward 4: David Gioiello (858), Bob Lally (1,123), Noreen McGorty * (1,812), John Papa * (1,992)
Treasurer: James Calkins (3,384), Raymond O'Leary * (6,203)
Apportionment & Taxation: Judson Crawford * (4,762), Wayne Bragg * (4,645), Jimmy Tickey * (4,724), Christopher Besescheck * (6,851), Charlotte Madar * (6,876), John Belden * (7,416)
Board of Education: Kate Kutash (4,828), James Orazietti * (5,208), Timothy Walsh * (5,054), Michael Pacowta * (5,035), Joe Knapik (3,754), Arlene Liscinsky * (4,884), John Quinn * (5,585), Bernie Simons (5,325), Thomas Minotti * (6,113), Kathy Yolish * (6,347), Mark Holden * (5,931), Win Oppel * (5,775)
Planning and Zoning Commission: Elaine Matto * (4,727), Ludwig Spinelli (4,239), Joan Flannery * (4,903), John Zikaras (4,318), Ruth Parkins * (6,267), Virginia Harger * (6,353), Thomas McGorty * (5,979), Anthony Pogoda * (6,138)
P & Z Alternates: Nancy Dickal * (4,987), Josh Kopac * (6,578)
Library Board: Harriet Finn * (4,620), Joan Feeley (4,017), Ronald Schlegel (4,426), Janice Greiser * (4,944)

DERBY - Derby election tallies, * denotes winner.
Mayor: Anthony Staffieri * (1,451), Daniel Foley Jr. (1,413)
Treasurer: Keith McLiverty * (unopposed)
Constable: Sylvester Fusco * (1,371), Peter Duhaime * (1,200)
Board of Aldermen, Ward 1: Joseph Gruttadauria Jr. (288), Stephen Iacuone * (301), Barbara DeGennaro * (355), Beverly Moran * (304), Tony Szewczyk (253), John Bartone (247)
Ward 2: Arthur Gerckens * (398), Ronald Sill * (497), Mark Searles (381), James Benanto Jr. * (412), David Lenart (363), Joseph DiMartino (393)
Ward 3: Carmen DiCenso * (748), Susan Churchill (570), Walter Mayhew (590), Joseph Bomba (556), Scott Boulton * (609), Ken Hughes * (690)
Board of Apportionment and Taxation: Daniel Sexton * (1,444), Anita Dugatto * (1,549), Jason Cronk * (1,401), Carlo Malerba Jr. * (1,605), David Anroman * (1,500), James Butler * (1,623), Richard Dziekan * (1,589), Judy Szewczyk * (1,477), Nelson Cummings (1,333), Carolyn Duhaime * (1,475), Jeremy Bell * (1,525), Mark Nichols (1,388)
Board of Education: Kimberly Kreiger * (1,509), Andrew Mancini * (1,686), Stephanie D'Onofrio * (1,428), George Kurtyka * (1,509), Christine Robinson * (1,420), Kenneth Marcucio Sr. * (1,710), Mary Porter (1,256), Laura Harris * (1,380), Denise Bottone * (1,388), Rebecca O'Hara * (1,408), Casey Picheco (1,313), James Gildea (1,362)

DHS announces honor roll

         DERBY - Derby High School has announced the honor roll for the first marking period.
         First Honors
         Grade 12 : Timothy Adanti, Chantal Card, Elia D’Onofrio, Brian Dobek, Kristina Dykes, Samantha Kalafut, Raymond Kreiger, Alyssa Mandolfo, Nicholas Marzec, Abbey Monaco, Seana Nieves, Spencer Wald, Hannah Walker. 
         Grade 11: Brianna Abel, Lisette Garcia.
         Grade 10: Kyle Bartone, Zachary Corrigan, Brianna Feola, Mirek Gruszkos, Marissa Nicolari, Joshua Russell, Kevin Stochmal.
        Grade 9: Christopher Diaz, Patrycja Drozdz, Robert Hawes, Michael Kreiger, Marla Narowski, Sarah Panico, Lindsay Sampson, Amy Zheng.
       Second Honors
       Grade 12:  Craig Alling, Jorge Alvarez, Sean Burke, Zachariah Carroll, Layla D’Andrea, Kevin Dilisio, Gadeesha Dorsainvil, Christopher Estwan, Angel Figueroa, Monika Gierula, Colin Haydu, Philip Landona, Nicholas Lemire, Samantha Miller, Nzinga Richardson, Brianna Sawicki, Anna Signore, William Silvester, Sarah Stobierski, Amanda Troop, Nicholas Vidalis.
       Grade 11: David Ahearn, Reim Alian, Edward Aponte, Matheus Bertocco, Shenell Griffiths, Robert Holt, Albana Komani, Melissa Lewis, Dillon McMahon, Jaileen Mercado, Blair Mitchell, Theodore Nagy, Justin Olenoski, Maryorie Perez, Tyler Staffier, Zachary Volo.
     Grade 10: Jeta Balidemaj, Louis Cutuaneo, Dylan Dedura, Lucas Edmonds, Melissa Fico, Shyanne Garofalo, Kaitlin Garrity, Elena Gjonbalaj, Emily Joyce, Ryan Landona, Jordan LaRue, Cristal Millan, Sara Poppa, Richard Quiles, Rachel Rizzo, Krystal Rosa, Alexandra Snell, Courtney Volza.
     Grade 9: Andrea Albarella, Stephen Bisaccia, Emily Borrelli, Ethan Bueno, Amanda Dean, Aria DeFeo, Brian Eliasson, Ximena Varas.

Health district offers flu vaccine clinics

    The Naugatuck Valley Health District will offer additional influenza vaccine clinics to residents of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Naugatuck, Seymour and Shelton during November and December. 
    This year’s flu vaccine (shot or nasal spray) will protect against the A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)-like virus; A/Perth/16/2009 (H3N2)-like virus; B/Brisbane/60/2008-like virus strains of influenza. Flu vaccination (the shot or nasal spray) is now recommended for everyone 6 months of age or older. 
    Clinics will be held at the following locations: Derby Public Library, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. - noon; Ansonia Public Library, Nov. 29 from 3-5 p.m.; Whittemore Library in Naugatuck on Dec. 5 from 3:30-5:30 .pm.; Huntington Branch Library, Shelton Dec. 8 from 10:30 a.m. -noon Plumb Memorial Library, Shelton Dec. 9 from 4:30-6:30 pm. No appointments are necessary.
    Flu vaccine will also be available by appointment during the district’s immunization clinics every Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. during November and December at the district office, 98 Bank St., Seymour. Pre‐registration is required for the district office clinics. Walk In clinics (no appointment needed) will be held at the district office each Wednesday from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. during November and December.
    The Health District will accept Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Medicare Part B. Those who are eligible should bring the proper insurance cards. The cost of the flu vaccine for with other forms of insurance is $25, payable by cash or check. Flu vaccine provided by the Vaccines for Children program (VFC) is also available by appointment for uninsured children.
    For information about the flu clinic schedule, call 203-881-3255, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stars and Stripes store to reopen in Ansonia

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — No Vet Left Behind will soon reopen its Stars and Stripes thrift shop and food pantry, said George Porter, who founded the nonprofit with his wife, Mary Porter, in 2008.
The Porters, of Derby, are Army veterans.
They closed the store at 44 Bridge St. several weeks ago and Porter said they were fortunate to find a much bigger site.

Read the full story here.

SEYMOUR ELECTION RESULTS: Republican Kurt Miller unseats Paul Roy (video)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
In Seymour, Republican Kurt Miller won a three-way race for the first selectman’s position, beating out Democratic First Selectman Paul Roy, who was seeking a second term, and Jeanne Loda, a veteran member of the Board of Education who ran as a petitioning Democrat.
Miller unseated Roy by a vote of 1,910-1,555.

Read the full story here.

DERBY ELECTION RESULTS: Anthony Staffieri wins close race (video)

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
In Derby, incumbent Republican Mayor Anthony Staffieri narrowly won re-election to a fourth term, defeating Democrat challenger Daniel Foley by 38 votes.
“It wasn’t much of a total voter turnout, but that’s what the battle is all the time,” Staffieri said to a crowd of supporters at headquarters.

Read the full story here.

SHELTON ELECTION RESULTS: Mark A. Lauretti wins re-election (video)

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
In Shelton, voters overwhelmingly chose longtime Republican Mayor Mark A. Lauretti, who got 6,336 votes in comparison to his challenger, businessman and volunteer firefighter and Democrat Chris Jones, who got 3,429 votes.
Lauretti was surrounded by cheering supporters at Republican headquarters downtown.

Read the full story here.

ANSONIA ELECTION RESULTS: James Della Volpe to focus on education

In Ansonia, six-term Mayor James T. Della Volpe won another term, as no one opposed him.
Della Volpe said he’ll focus on education and will continue to try to fund the schools as best as the city can.
Della Volpe said late Tuesday afternoon that voting had been “especially busy” in the 7th Ward, which he said had “the highest turnout in the city.”
Della Volpe, a Democrat, said he is “truly honored to lead the city again for another two years” and will work hard to move the city forward.
Della Volpe said he’ll look to stabilize the tax rate. He said he realizes that times are difficult for many residents and he plans to work to increase the tax base.
In heavily-Democratic Ansonia, four Republicans won seats on the 14-member Board of Aldermen.

Read the full story here.

Valley Foreclosure Bus Tour is also a benefit for Spooner House

By Jean  Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
Local real estate agent Frank A. Hoinsky will hold another Valley Foreclosure Bus Tour, but with an eye to help those less fortunate.
Hoinsky’s three-hour tour will start at 9 a.m. Sunday from his office at 685 Main St., Ansonia.

Read the full story here.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Seymour votes to buy new rescue truck

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Townspeople have unanimously approved spending up to $499,000 to replace a decades-old rescue truck for the Fire Department.
More than 80 people, with the majority of them being volunteer firefighters, last week voted in favor of the town allocating up to $499,000 to buy the rescue truck.

Read the full story here.

Derby-based seminar stresses need for good posture

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — Maintaining good posture is key to staying fit and allowing the body to function as it should, said Myra Odenwaelder, a physical therapist who is director of rehabilitation services at Griffin Hospital.
Odenwaelder addressed members of the Circle of Friends breast cancer support group last week at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin.

Read the full story here.

Seymour changes one of its voting locations due to ongoing construction work

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — Voters who normally cast their ballots at Chatfield School on Skokorat Street will instead vote at the Seymour Community Center during today’s municipal election, due to ongoing construction at the elementary school.


Read the full story here.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Preschool program to focus on first Americans

ANSONIA - A program about the first Americans will be held for three to five-year olds at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Roadd.
Join Ranger Wendy to get a glimpse into what life was like here 200 years ago. The program will include a short hike, a story and a craft.
Tuition is $8 per family ($6 for family-level F.A.N.C.I. members and Ansonia residents). Call 203-736-1053 to register in advance.

Salvation Army aids residents who lost power

    The Greater Valley Salvation Army took a step of faith and reached out to the residents of Seymour and Oxford in the days after the Oct. 29 snowstorm that knocked out electricity and heat, Major Theresa Burkholder said.   
      “We have provided meals and other ‘goodies,’ serving (them) at the emergency shelters in both communities as well as the Norman Ray Congregate Housing on Walnut Street in Seymour,” Burkholder said.
    The Greater Valley Salvation Army is based at 26 Lester St., Ansonia.
   

Shelton man arrested on firearms charges


By Register Staff
SHELTON — Detectives have arrested Juan Ramirez, 23, of 70 Cornell St., on firearms charges, police spokesman Lt. Robert Kozlowsky said today.
Ramirez was charged with theft of a firearm and criminal possession of a firearm and released on $2,500 bail.
Ramirez also was charged with second-degree failure to appear and released on a $750 bail.
He was scheduled to appear Nov. 21 at Derby Superior Court for both arrests.
The firearm arrest stems from a search warrant that was conducted Sept. 2 at 70 Cornell St., Kozlowsky said.
Among items police seized at the time was a .38-caliber revolver. Detectives were later able to determine the revolver was stolen, police said.

Bridgeport man arrested in Shelton bank robbery

SHELTON — Police Friday arrested Kenneth Anderson, 48, of Reservoir Avenue, Bridgeport, on a warrant at Derby Superior Court in connection with a bank robbery in June.
Lt. Robert Kozlowsky, police spokesman, said Anderson was charged with third-degree robbery and fourth-degree larceny.
Anderson was held in lieu of $50,000 bail and is scheduled to appear at Derby court again Nov. 28.
Kozlowsky said the arrest stems from a bank robbery June 22 at a Citibank branch, 850 Bridgeport Ave. There were no customers inside the bank during the robbery, which police said occurred at about 3:30 p.m.

Resident reminds people to vote Tuesday

Derby's Citizen of the Year, Daniel Waleski, poses outside St. Michael's Post 1562, Catholic War Veterans, on Derby Avenue with one of the signs he has placed around Derby urging people to vote. The sign does not endorse any candidates or political parties. Waleski said he designed it and had it printed on his own initiative "to make a contribution to the community."  Patricia Villers/Register

Hearings slated on plan for schools

    DERBY - The Board of Education will conduct three public hearings regarding the Strategic Plan that will guide efforts to improve public education in the city over the next five years.
    The plan, which has been under development for the past several months, is expected to be adopted by the board in December. A summary of the plan, drafted by a committee of teachers, students, administrators, parents and other concerned citizens, is attached. The entire document is available at www.derbyps.org.
    All three hearings are at 7 p.m. Dates and locations are: Wednesday, Irving School; Thursday, Bradley School; Nov. 14, Derby Middle School.
    All interested citizens are invited to attend to voice their reactions to the plan and to offer ideas for improvement of the schools.
    For information, contact Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tracy, 203-736-5027,

Center to hold pumpkin pie workshop

ANSONIA  - Join Alison and Dawn at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center for a Pumpkin Pie Workshop at 1 p.m. Saturday.
Make a pumpkin pie to take home and bake, using native Connecticut pumpkins. Participants asked to bring an apron and a rolling pin.  All needed ingredients will be provided.
Tuition for this workshop for adults and mature teens is $12 a person.  Space is limited; call early to register.

Valley Scouts launch annual food drive

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
For more than two decades, the Housatonic Council, Boy Scouts of America, has helped the Valley’s less fortunate with its Scouting for Food Drive.
This year is no exception. The Scouts, joined by local Girl Scouts, will collect food Saturday to be distributed to Valley nonprofits.

Read the full story here.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Progress made in Seymour power restoration

SEYMOUR - Connecticut Light & Power is reporting that the majority of residents have power back in Seymour.
Out of 7,469 customers, there was still 907 customers without power as of noon Friday, or 12 percent.
School is back in session today, after being closed for four days, according to Superintendent of Schools MaryAnne Mascolo.
First Selectman Paul Roy said Thursday CL&P crews were working in the areas of Colony Street, Tomlinson Road, Spruce Brook Road, parts of Route 34 and along Main Street to restore power to the remaining residents and businesses still in the dark.
Roy said Seymour Middle School remains open as an emergency shelter for residents to take showers. However, with school back in session Friday, Nov. 4, showers will only be available from 4 to 9 p.m., when students are and staff are gone.
Also, to help residents get rid of branches, brush and other debris littering their yards from the storm, the town transfer station will be open later than usual on Friday and Saturday. Residents can haul their debris to the Silvermine Road facility from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days.

- By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich

Lifetouch site in Derby listed for sale

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
DERBY — A downtown property owner is pursuing other potential buyers for its site, because the downtown redevelopment company hasn’t purchased the property yet.
The former Lifetouch Studios building, on Route 34 near the Route 8 interchange, is now listed for sale with the Connecticut Realty Group LLC in New Haven.
The property, which is slightly larger than one acre, is advertised for $850,000.

Read the full story here.

Derby school board accepts resignation of accused educator

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY — The Board of Education Thursday night unanimously accepted the resignation of William M. LaRovera, the dean of student development at Derby Middle School.
LaRovera, of Naugatuck, was arrested on a warrant in September and charged with several drug counts. He entered a not guilty plea in Superior Court to the charges in late September.
Neither LaRovera nor his attorney, Rob Serafinowicz of Waterbury, attended the school board meeting.

Read the full story here.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

About 70% of Seymour residents have power back; school resumes Friday

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — About 70 percent of residents had their power restored as of Thursday afternoon, First Selectman Paul Roy said.
And school will also be back in session Friday, after being closed for four days, according to Superintendent of Schools MaryAnne Mascolo.

Read the full story here.

Loss of state contract may force Ansonia firm to cut 50 jobs

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
ANSONIA — A nonprofit transportation company on Main Street expects it will have to cut about 50 jobs in January as the result of the anticipated loss of a key contract with the state Department of Social Services.
Coordinated Transportation Solutions Inc. was one of five bidders for the job, which involves providing non-emergency medical transportation for Medicaid recipients across the state.

Read the full story here.

Shelton dog owner guilty of animal cruelty

This female beagle, named "Toni" by Shelton's animal control officer, was found malnourished and mistreated in Shelton. She is receiving veterinary care.
 
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo
Naugatuck Valley Bureau Chief
A Shelton man was put on conditional discharge for 18 months Tuesday for neglecting his pet dog, which was found in pain and having difficulty walking due to an injured paw, according to police and court officials.
Paulino Sanches, 57, of 36 Rayo Drive, pleaded guilty to one count of cruelty to animals, a misdemeanor, in Superior Court in Derby. Sanches would only face prison time, up to six months, if he fails to comply with the conditions imposed upon him.

Read the full story here.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Festival of Trees, craft fair slated at Wesley Village

SHELTON - The 8th Annual Festival of Trees and Wesley Village Craft Fair will be held Nov.19 and 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave. 
The event benefits Valley Interfaith Caregivers at TEAM, Inc. and activity programs for seniors at Wesley Village.
The festival includes activities and fun for the whole family, including the viewing of more than 30 beautifully decorated and themed trees and wreaths donated by area businesses, organizations, and individuals.
Participants may buy raffle tickets to get the chance to win any of the donated trees.
All drawings will be at 3:15 p.m. Sunday. Winners do not need to be present.
The event also features a craft fair, with more than 50 vendors offering a variety of unique gifts and handmade crafts.  A local photographer will shoot photos with Santa from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. both days.
Photos are $15 for a 4x6 print and include a decorative photo card. There will be entertainment and a holiday bake sale as well as lunch and snacks available in the Wesley Village café.
Free shuttle service will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to park at Long Hill School, 565 Long Hill Ave.

Shelton cop interrupts car burglary; suspect nabbed after pursuit



By Register Staff
SHELTON – An officer on patrol Tuesday evening interrupted a man who had broken into a vehicle on Bridgeport Avenue and stolen valuables, police said.

Read more here.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Derby's Sterling Opera House to take another bow on TV

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
DERBY — The spirit of the historic Sterling Opera House will once again be featured on national TV.
Rich DiCarlo, co-chairman of the Cultural Commission, said a production company from Canada that works for the Travel Channel was in town over the weekend.
The company spent hours filming inside the 19th-century building on Elizabeth Street for a new series that will air next year, he said. The series is tentatively called “Destination Fear.”

Read the full story here.

Assumption School in Ansonia competes for new playground

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — The 16 students in teacher Jessica Rinaldi’s second-grade class at Assumption School are learning how to work hard so they can play.
Last month, they got involved in a nationwide competition sponsored by Dannon yogurt that could result in their getting a $20,000 playground makeover.

Read the full story here.

Church readies Christmas craft fair

    SEYMOUR - Great Hill United Methodist Church, 225 Great Hill Road, will present “Christmas on the Hill,” a vendor craft fair, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 12 in Fellowship Hall.
    Items for sale will include organic teas, children’s crocheted items, wreaths, American Girl doll clothes, stained glass, gourd birdhouses, pocket books, jewelry, and other hand-crafted goods.
    Coffee and doughnuts will be available from  9-11 am. The church also will sell home-baked breads, cookies, cakes, and pies throughout the day.
    Vendor space is still available. Contact Pat,  203-888-0489, for vendor applications and additional information.

Ansonia police arrest 4 in drug probe


By Register Staff

ANSONIA — Police have arrested three city residents and a Bridgeport man in a continuing effort to reduce drug sales in Ansonia.
Police said the arrests were a direct result of a coordinated response to complaints by residents and business owners in Ansonia, especially the North End of the city, which includes the Liberty Park Apartments.

Read the full story here.


Grant will aid in upgrade of Derby-Shelton bridge

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
Derby and Shelton have received a $265,000 state grant that puts them a step closer to upgrading the aging span that links them.
Sheila O’Malley, Derby’s director of economic and community development, said Monday the grant is split into two parts.

Read the full story here.

Della Volpe looks forward to serving another term​ as Ansonia mayor

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — Six-term Mayor James T. Della Volpe says he is looking forward to serving another two years.
Della Volpe, 63, is running unopposed in the Nov. 8 election.
“I’m looking forward to maintaining the grand list, to stabilize our tax rate,” Della Volpe, a Democrat, said during a recent interview in his City Hall office. He acknowledged the financial struggle that many city taxpayers face in this economy.

Read the full story here.

Familiar faces compete for Seymour's top spot

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

SEYMOUR — A three-way race for the first selectman’s job has familiar faces vying for votes.
Democratic First Selectman Paul Roy is seeking a second term in office. Hoping to unseat Roy are Jeanne Loda, a veteran member of the Board of Education, running as a petitioning Democrat, and Republican Selectman Kurt Miller, a local businessman and former Board of Finance chairman.

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...