A peek inside Osborne Homestead in Derby

DERBY - My daughter Allegra and I were fortunate Friday morning to have curator Susan Robinson give us a tour of the beautiful Osborne Homestead Museum.
In a tradition going back more than two decades it was decorated by area garden clubs for the holiday season.
 

Homestead curator/museum educator Susan Robinson shows off the dining room decorated by the Olde Kellogg Garden Society. 

The theme this year is Holiday in Connecticut. The attention to detail is simply stunning! I highly recommend a visit. You won't be disappointed.

The home at 500 Hawthorne Ave. is open for holiday tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday through Dec. 21 and for twilight tours from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 6, 13 and 20.

 

This tree in the solarium was donated by Jones Family Farms in Shelton.

One of the ornaments on the tree in the solarium. I think it's a dragonfly.

Stay tuned for a story in the New Haven Register.

Breast wellness center in Derby wins recognition

DERBY - The Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness at Griffin Hospital has achieved the highest level of quality breast health care recognition from the American College of Surgeons.

The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, a program administered by the American College of Surgeons, recently granted a Full Three-Year Accreditation designation to the Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness. 

Accreditation by the NAPBC is only given to those centers that have voluntarily committed to providing the highest standard of breast care and that undergo a rigorous evaluation process and review of their performance.

During the survey process, the center must demonstrate compliance with standards established by the NAPBC for treating women who are diagnosed with the full spectrum of breast disease.

The standards include proficiency in the areas of center leadership, clinical management, research, community outreach, professional education, and quality improvement.

“We’re extremely proud to earn this comprehensive designation,” said Denise Barajas, MD, medical director of The Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness.
“Breast centers that achieve the NAPBC accreditation demonstrate strong dedication to offering patients every significant advantage in their battle against breast disease.”

The American Cancer Society estimated that 232,340 patients will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States in 2013. 

In addition, hundreds of thousands of women who will deal with benign breast disease this year will require medical evaluation for treatment options.

Receiving care at a NAPBC-accredited center ensures that a patient will have access to:

·         Comprehensive care, including a full range of state-of-the-art services;

·         A multidisciplinary team approach to coordinate the best treatment options;

·         Information about ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options; and

·         Quality breast care close to home.

About NAPBC

The NAPBC is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to the improvement of the quality of care and monitoring of outcomes of patients with diseases of the breast.
This mission is pursued through standard-setting, scientific validation, and patient and professional education. Its board membership includes professionals from 20 national organizations that reflect the full spectrum of breast care.

About The Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness at Griffin Hospital

Located at 300 Seymour Ave. in Derby, The Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness at Griffin Hospital combines advanced technology, a team of highly trained physicians, breast and reconstructive surgeons and patient navigators, and a Planetree healing environment to offer our patients a comprehensive range of personalized breast care and wellness services.

The Center features state-of-the-art digital mammography suites equipped with 3D mammography, a breast ultrasound suite, and the most advanced system available to perform stereotactic biopsy. With all of these resources under one roof, the Center provides fast and accurate diagnosis, alleviating our patients’ anxiety.
The Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness is a designated Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR). In awarding the status of a “Breast Imaging Center of Excellence,” the ACR recognizes that The Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness demonstrates excellence in breast imaging by successfully earning accreditation in mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy, and breast ultrasound (including ultrasound-guided breast biopsy).

For more information, call 203-732-1300 or visit breast-center.griffinhealth.org.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Santa heads to Seymour Saturday

Ho, ho, ho - it's time for the 42nd annual Seymour Christmas Parade starting at 2 p.m. Saturday.

The tradition continues!

Sharing Thanksgiving week fun in Ansonia

Volunteers at the Greater Valley Salvation Army in Ansonia take a break during Monday's  Thanksgiving food distribution with Lt. Anthony Rivera, third from left, and his wife, Lt. Stephanie Rivera.

Pictured from left are Jassin Santana, Rudy DelValle Jr., Tyrone Capeles, Anna Bachleda, and Donna Ingalls. To the right of Lt. Stephanie Rivera is Calvin Y. Scott.


I'm thankful I was there to cover the event. I met mother and daughter Palma and Michelle Bauer from Oxford who have fallen upon hard times. They have been living with no heat and little food in their home.

I described their plight in the story and the next thing I knew three anonymous angels had come forward to help them.

Enjoy the day

I'm thankful for all my readers.

Griffin in Derby to host presentations for diabetics

DERBY - The Diabetes Education & Support Group at Griffin Hospital will host two free presentations to help diabetics handle the holidays Dec. 10 at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St.
 

Mary Swansiger, BSN, MPH, will present “Handling the Holidays and Special Occasions” at 2:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Medical Education Classroom and at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Childbirth Classroom A. Ask for directions to these rooms at the hospital’s front desk.

During the presentation, Swansiger will discuss how special occasions can affect food choices, planning ahead, exercise, stress management and strategies for eating out.

Monthly meetings

The Diabetes Education & Support Group meets September through June on the second Tuesday of each month to discuss the management of diabetes, its challenges and day-to-day dietary concerns.

All diabetics and their families are welcome to attend. 

No registration is required. 

Free valet parking is available for the 2:30 p.m. session. 

For more information, call Swansiger, 203.732.1137.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Pharmacist at Griffin Hospital in Derby honored

 

Griffin Hospital Pharmacist Bekim S. Jashanica, Pharm.D, center, was recently named a 2013 Preceptor of the Year for The University of Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy.

 
DERBY - Griffin Hospital Pharmacist Bekim S. Jashanica, Pharm.D, of New Haven, was recently named a 2013 Preceptor of the Year for The University of Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy in West Hartford.

As experiential education professionals, pharmacist preceptors teach students practice-related skills necessary to provide quality pharmacist care.
In addition to serving as teachers, pharmacist preceptors mentor student pharmacists, promoting personal and professional growth.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

 

Fundraising slated for Oxford girl in need of transplant

OXFORD - With the cost of a transplant often exceeding $500,000, many families are unable to shoulder the financial burden of such a procedure.  
The Children’s Organ Transplant Association in Bloomington, Ind. is a national charity dedicated to organizing and guiding communities in raising funds for transplant-related expenses.
In Oxford, volunteers are raising funds for COTA in honor of transplant patients like Chelsea Wheeler, daughter of Christopher and Linda Wheeler of Oxford. 
Born on Feb. 4, 2003, Chelsea was diagnosed with Intestinal Dysmotility.  Doctors at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania have recommended a life-saving small bowel transplant. 
 Chelsea’s family has asked for assistance from the Children’s Organ Transplant Association. 

The organization’s priority is to assure that no child or young adult is denied a transplant or excluded from a transplant waiting list due to lack of funds.  
One hundred percent of all funds raised are used for patients’ transplant-related expenses.
An estimated $65,000 is being raised by Oxford volunteers. Volunteers are needed to assist with fundraising activities that will help with transplant-related expenses. Individuals and groups interested in more information may contact Community Coordinator Ray Nappi, 203-305-8719 or ray.nappi@gmail.com.   

Donations may be mailed to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, 2501 West COTA Drive, Bloomington, IN., 47403.  Checks or money orders should be made payable to COTA, with “In Honor of Chelsea W” written on the memo line of the check.  Secure credit card donations are also accepted online at www.COTAforChelseaW.com.  

This post is taken from a press release from the Children's Organ Transplant Association. 

Shelton troupe to stage reading of 'A Christmas Carol'

Don't forget to grab your ugliest holiday sweater (like Don and Kathy did) and join us for... Fri.,  December 13th at 6pm Sat., December 14th at 1pm at the Shelton History Center 70 Ripton Road Shelton, CT 06484 in the historic Wilson Barn (c. 1860) Seasonal baked goods and WARM beverages will be provided before the event.  Join us for Charles Dickens' heartwarming tale!  Perfect for your family and friends! Click HERE to get tickets, or call us at 203-513-9446!             (Jeremy Funke as Ebenezer Scrooge, Kristen Kingsley, Steve Mazzoccone, Megan McGarvey, Alex Luft and Artistic Director, Tom Simonetti) Facebook Twitter Website Click here to download our specially prepared study-guide, perfect for all ages when you want to be in-the-know of our production! SICK OF COOKING for the holidays...well take some time to Unwind-at-the-Vine!  During the holiday season, mention Valley Shakespeare Festival to your server, and 10% of the cost of your meal, will be donated to us by the restaurant!

Funding boosts after-school program in Ansonia

Thanks to recent funding from the Valley Community Foundation and the D’Addario Community Fund, 95 students at Ansonia Middle School, John G. Prendergast and John C. Mead elementary schools in Ansonia will continue to participate at no cost in academic, enrichment, and recreational after-school opportunities.

The programs are designed to complement their regular school day.

The program also provides opportunities for the families of these students to participate in additional educational programs.

It’s all part of an after-school project called The Charger Club Program, initially funded by the state Department of Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Center program.

The 21st CCLC programs are funded for five years, with three years of full funding, the fourth year at 75 percent funding, and the final year at 50 percent funding.

 As the program was nearing the end of its fourth year of funding, the Ansonia Public Schools needed to secure “gap funding” for the program to continue at the same level of service for the fifth year without having to charge students and families to participate in the program.

Enter the Valley Community Foundation and its competitive grants process, which began earlier this year.

The APS submitted an application to the Foundation, was encouraged to participate in a rigorous site review process in the summer, and was recently awarded $25,000 through this process.

“The Charger Club program was one of only 17 grants awarded by VCF this year, and the only one in the education category,” said VCF President Sharon Closius.
“We were so pleased to be able to provide more than 75 percent of the request from the Ansonia Public Schools.”
As VCF finalized its grant process, staff reached out to donor advised fund holders to help support projects that were being recommended for funding.
 “We had a tremendous amount of funding requests this year,” said Closius, “and we have several donors who were willing to help us add monies from their funds to support various projects that VCF was unable to fully fund.”
When contacted about the opportunities that were available, Tom D’Addario of the D’Addario Community Fund was immediately interested.
“We knew that we had money available to grant out in our Fund this year, and that we wanted to assist wherever we could," he said. "Helping middle school students and their families with this after school program was a perfect fit for us – providing support that encourages kids to complete their homework as well as participate in recreational and enrichment opportunities is so impactful. We were so glad that we were able to contribute to this most worthwhile project.”

For the past four years, The Charger Club program has been providing 95 students in Grades 6-8 with homework assistance by Ansonia Public Schools’ teachers, as well as recreational and enrichment activities through the Boys and Girls Club in Ansonia.

Additional enrichment and family educational programs are offered by several other partnering groups, including Valley Regional Adult Education, Valley Kids Belong, and Junior Achievement of Western Connecticut.

“The Charger Club is a valued and important part of the extended school day for 95 of our families,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carol Merlone said.
"We have been able to offer the program free of charge to our families for four years, and we are very pleased to be able to continue to do so this year, with program staff focused on expanding programming for the entire family.”

“We have a great team of teachers, students, families and partnering organizations who are proud to be part of the Charger Club,” said Eileen Ehman, Project Director and Grants Manager for Ansonia Public Schools.
“We all want to thank VCF and the D’Addario family for supporting our program, which follows the motto of our school district: moving from good to great!”

For information about how to establish a fund or contribute to VCF to support programs, contact Sharon Closius, VCF President and CEO, at 203-751-9162 or at sclosius@valleyfoundation.org.


This is taken from a press release from the Valley Community Foundation.

Seymour announces winter parking ban

This information is from Seymour First Selectman Kurt Miller's Facebook page: 

Planetree recognizes 2 Griffin caregivers at annual conference

Hospital wins leadership award

Planetree President Susan B. Frampton congratulates Michael Currie. / Contributed photo

 

Director of Emergency Medicine Dr. Gregory Boris and Susan B. Frampton at Planetree Awards ceremony. / Contributed photo


DERBY - Griffin Hospital’s Director of Emergency Medicine Gregory Boris of Woodbridge, and Environmental Services staff member Michael Currie of Naugatuck, were recently honored with the 2013 Spirit of Planetree Awards.

They were recognized at the 2013 Planetree Annual Conference in October in Montreal, Canada.

Griffin Hospital was also recognized at the conference, earning the 2013 Distinction for Leadership and Innovation Award.
Boris and Currie received the “Physician Champion Award” and “Caregiver Award,” respectively, recognizing their commitment to both Planetree and Griffin Hospital's patient-centered approach to providing care.

The awards were presented by Planetree President Susan B. Frampton in conjunction with the Planetree Annual Conference.

“The Spirit of Planetree Award Ceremony is always a highlight of our Annual Conference,” Frampton said.
“At the heart of the Planetree model are the human interactions between patients and caregivers. With the Spirit of Planetree Awards, we celebrate individuals like Dr. Boris and Michael who, with their compassion, empathy, and simple human kindness, are improving the patient experience, and that is most definitely worthy of recognition."

Griffin’s entire conference contingent accepted The Distinction for Leadership and Innovation Award from Frampton at the awards ceremony.
The award distinguishes Planetree designated sites that continue to advance the model of patient-centered care through outreach, research, scholarship and innovation.
The Distinction criteria encourage organizations to consider ways that, as leaders in the field, they may build awareness, strengthen the case, and continue to innovate in patient-centered care.

About Planetree

Founded in 1978 by, Angelica Thieriot, a San Francisco patient who endured a traumatic healthcare experience, Planetree is an internationally-recognized not-for-profit organization that partners with health care providers around the globe to advance patient-/resident-centered approaches to care.

Planetree has been at the forefront of the effort to personalize, humanize, and demystify the healthcare system for more than 30 years.
With its model of patient-/resident-centered care being implemented in a diverse range of hospitals, continuing care facilities, outpatient clinics, and consumer health libraries across North America, Canada, Brazil, The Netherlands and Japan, Planetree is demonstrating that patient-centered care is not only an empowering philosophy, but a viable, vital, and cost-effective model of care.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

 

Crisco convenes forum on health insurance act

HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, and state Rep. Robert Megna, D-New Haven, co-chairs of the legislature’s Insurance and Real Estate Committee, Friday convened an Informational Forum to measure progress toward Connecticut’s implementation of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Jan. 1 is the effective date of the new federal law; the official enrollment period began Oct. 1.

Crisco and Megna were eager for lawmakers to hear from industry experts so they in turn could help ensure their constituents have access to the information, enrollment options, and sign-up capabilities they need to participate in options provided by the new federal law.

“The two key facets of the Affordable Care Act cannot be overstated, and the first of these is widespread enrollment to expand the pool of residents covered by insurance, to reduce costs for individual members of that pool,” Crisco said.
“And then with more residents receiving regular check-ups and early diagnoses, the overall cost of healthcare should go down with reduced demand for treatment of late-stage and chronic illness, and emergency room visits for routine matters.”

Access Health CT is the state’s health insurance exchange, established by state statute as the official medium between state residents and their participation in options provided by the federal law.
Kevin Counihan, chief executive officer of AccessHealthCT, was Friday’s first and featured presenter to update Connecticut’s enrollment statistics.

“It was gratifying to hear how smoothly Connecticut enrollments have been going through our state system in light of press coverage of enrollment difficulties and consumer confusion elsewhere,” Crisco said.
“The Informational Forum was quite comprehensive, providing updates from ACA administrators, a chance to gauge the impact of these changes from private sector providers, and the view from officials with the state Department of Insurance, which regulates the industry.”

Crisco said efficiencies at Access Health CT place the state among national leaders in enrollment results with a 97 percent approval rating from participants.
Access Health CT can be reached at www.accesshealthct.com or by calling 1-855-805-4325.


This is a press release from Crisco's office.

Derby Historical Society to hold Christmas fair

ANSONIA - Join members of the Derby Historical Society for a cup of hot cider at an annual “Christmas Fair” from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 7 at the David Humphreys House, 37 Elm St.

Docents will be giving free tours of the David Humphreys House.

New this year:  ribbon bookmarks and four separate children's workshops - potpourri sachets, paperclip and bead angel necklace, lemon pomanders and cinnamon ornaments.
Kits for each will be sold from $1 and up, instructions included. Items are suitable for stocking stuffers or grandparents' gifts.

The gift shop has unique toys, local history books, watercolor prints, and an exclusive Derby Historical Society ornament.
There will also be handmade doll clothes made to fit 18" dolls, such as "American Girl."
Purchase home-made Christmas cookies at a bake sale to save on baking time and trouble - buy individually or by the tray.
All proceeds from this event go to fund the Society's children's programs.

Limited parking is available in the rear of the building. Additional on-street parking is available on nearby Thomas Street. For information call 203-735-1908.



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

The Derby Historical Society welcomes all visitors and is also available to support researchers, school or other program needs.
Staff offices are located at the Sarah Riggs Humphreys House, 37 Elm St. For more information, visit www.derbyhistorical.org.


This post is taken from a press release from the historical society.

School in Ansonia decorates tree to donate to charity

Teacher Yavanna Horbal and Assistant Principal Jeffrey Levinson show off a special Christmas tree Monday in the lobby of Emmett O'Brien Technical High School in Ansonia.

ANSONIA -Yavanna Horbal, a social studies teacher at Emmett O'Brien Technical High School, recently coordinated a Tree of Hope project among her colleagues.
They purchased and decorated a tree that will be donated to Trees of Hope, an event that benefits Ronald McDonald House of Connecticut.

Horbal formerly taught at Eli Whitney Technical High School in Hamden, and she said that school participated in the annual holiday event so she decided to bring the idea to Ansonia.

The 24th annual Trees of Hope will be held 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 7-15 at the Maritime Center, 545-555 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven.

Horbal said those who attend may purchase raffle tickets for $1 each and put them next to a tree, wreath, or gift basket of their choice.

"All of the proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald House," Horbal said. "Last year the event funded over 500 nights for parents to stay with their children" who are undergoing medical treatment, she said.

Naugatuck Community Band to perform in Seymour

SEYMOUR - The Naugatuck Community Band will present "Sounds of the Season," a concert of favorite Christmas and holiday classics old and new, at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Strand Theater, 165 Main St. 
The concert is sponsored by the Seymour Culture and Arts Commission.

A food drive will be part of the event and the public is encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the food bank.  

The Naugatuck Community Band is a volunteer, non-profit organization consisting of musicians from throughout the Naugatuck Valley area and beyond. Members enjoy and take pride in performing music at various events throughout the year.  
Come out to support the food bank and enjoy some holiday cheer.  

For more information call Kim, 203-888-7880.


This is a press release from the Seymour Culture and Arts Commission. 

Learn to work with clay at Derby Public Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites young adults ages 12 to 17 to a two-session Working with Clay Workshop, from 4-5:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 12.

Local artist and Valley Arts Council President Richard DiCarlo guides participants first through ornament sculpting, followed by the painting of the holiday-themed sculptures.

Registration is requested.

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


This is a press release from Derby Public Library.

Santa sets sights on Seymour

SEYMOUR - Santa Claus is coming to Seymour Volunteer Ambulance Association, 4 Wakeley St., from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8.

Join ambulance volunteers to support a great cause, avoid long lines at the mall and kick off the holiday season.
Get a jump start on your holiday cards and give Santa your holiday wish list.

Santa will pose for digital photos and the photos will be printed while your child enjoys a holiday movie, writes a letter to Santa, creates a craft project with one of Santa’s elves or enjoys a holiday treat.

You are free to preview the photos taken and then select the ones you wish to purchase. Choose from (1) 8x10, (2) 5x7 photos or (9) wallet size photos.
Each printed sheet is $14, or you can purchase the entire package for $35.
All proceeds will benefit the Seymour Ambulance Association.

The association also will be collecting new, unwrapped toys for Toys 4 Kids.

For more information contact Amanda Skellington, 203-888-8843 ext. 0, or at picswithsanta@seymourems.org.



This is a press release from Seymour Ambulance Association.

Derby dentist, family continue journey of helping less fortunate

Need is greater than ever

DERBY - On Thursday I visited the Soffermans as they were doing what must be second nature to them now - flagging down drivers and asking for help to feed the Valley's needy. 

This is the 27th year they have collected food and money before Thanksgiving.

Dr. Bruce Sofferman, his wife, Deborah, and daughter Sophia peer into a vehicle seeking a donation to their annual Thanksgiving food drive.  

This was the first time they stationed themselves on heavily-traveled New Haven Avenue at the intersection of Chapel Street. Sofferman said it was a great location. 

 Ansonia resident Ray Tillotson helped the cause by being a turkey for a day.

Sofferman greets Mayor Tony Staffieri, who stopped by to donate a turkey. 

The foursome poses for a group shot. The photo shows just some of the items that were piled up on the grass.

All food and monetary donations are going to the Spooner House in Shelton. Local families will have a happier holiday because of this drive. 

The Soffermans deserve plaudits for their years of dedication.

History, movies on tap at Derby Public Library

Local history

DERBY - The Derby Public Library has scheduled weekly Local History Information Sessions from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and from 10a.m.-noon Wednesdays.

The Library’s Local History Coordinator will be available in the Local History Room to answer questions and assist visitors in exploring the numerous local history resources available at the Library. 

Visitors will also be invited to browse through PastPerfect, a software program that enables users to search the Library’s progressively updated local history database. 

Assistance will be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more. 

Movie matinees

The Library continues its weekly Wednesday Movie Matinees series for ages 18 and over. 

Newly released DVDs will be shown at 1 p.m. every Wednesday.

Light snacks will be provided.  Registration is requested.

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

Drum circle, night hike planned at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center will hold its annual winter solstice drumming circle at 6 p.m. Dec. 20.

Join Ranger Dawn to make some music by the fire. Children, ages 12 and older, are welcome to attend accompanied by adults.

Bring your own percussion instrument, or make one, and dress warmly for this program that will be held at the large pavilion.

This event is free, but participants are asked to bring a canned food donation for area needy.


Full Cold Moon Hike
At 7 p.m. Dec. 20, as a full moon rises over the fields and forests of the Nature Center, join Rangers Wendy and Martin for a moonlight hike.

Learn to identify trees by their shapes. Stop and listen for the calls of Great Horned owls and perhaps others sounds of wildlife that are out and about in winter.

Dress for the cold and wear sturdy foot gear.
This free program is limited to 30 persons including children and adults, so call early to register.

To register for either program call 203-736-1053.


The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.



This is a press release from the nature center.

Local dentist, family collecting food today in Derby

A holiday tradition

The Rev. Deborah Sofferman, left, and her daughter, Sophia, wave at passing cars alongside New Haven Avenue (Route 34) at the corner of Chapel Street in Derby this morning.
They will be collecting food and cash donations there all day for Spooner House in Shelton.
Local dentist Dr. Bruce Sofferman started the Thanksgiving food drive in the 1980s.

Stay tuned for a story and photos in tomorrow's New Haven Register and at www.nhregister.com.

Ansonia Library to host book talk

ANSONIA -  The Ansonia Library’s monthly book discussion series will feature the novel "Where Angels Go" by Debbie Macomber.

 

The discussion will be held at 11 a.m. Dec. 19 in the Community Room at the library, 53 S. Cliff St.

The book discussion program is free and open to the public.

Copies of the book are available at the library’s circulation desk.

For further information, call Joyce Ceccarelli, Ansonia Library Director, 203-734-6275.


This is a press release from Ansonia Library.

Event in Ansonia Thursday to benefit nonprofit

Ansonia Nature Center group seeks members

ANSONIA - The Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. meet the second Wednesday of every month at the Center, 10 Deerfield Road.

Join the Friends at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 11. New members are always welcome. 

Volunteers are needed to help the Nature Center with its various activities, including care of wildlife, trail maintenance, family programs, and special events. 

For information call 203-736-1053.

  

This is a press release from the nature center.

TEAM posts toy drop-off sites in Valley

Here is a list of locations where toys are being collected for TEAM's Toys 4 Kids.

Ansonia
Ansonia Public Library    53 S. Cliff St.
Ansonia Town Hall        253 Main St.
Ansonia Yankee Peddler      150 Main St.
Bank of America        382 Main St.
Big Y            403 Main St.
Boys & Girls Club        28 Howard Ave.
Central Subalpi Club    30 Parker St.
Christ Church        56 S. Cliff St.
Cutting Crew        405 Main St.
Doyle Senior Center    153 Main St.
Emmett O’Brien HS        141 Prindle Ave.
Lewis Jewelers        176 Main St.
Molto Bene        557 Wakelee Ave.
Only for Her        98 Main St.
Smith's Shell Station    22 Great Hill Road
Spector Furniture        385 Main St.
Speed of Sound Tech.    230 Pershing Drive
Webster Bank        200 Division St.

Beacon Falls
Post Office        101 N. Main St.

Bethany           
Bethany Town Hall        40 Peck Road
Webster Bank             696 Amity Road

Derby           
Archie Moore's        17 Elizabeth St.
Big Lots            600 New Haven Dr.
Birmingham Health Center    210 Chatfield St.
Club Ballroom        33 Elizabeth St.
Derby City Hall        1 Elizabeth St.
Derby Neck Library        307 Hawthorne Ave.
Derby Public Library    313 Elizabeth St.
Derby Senior Center    293 Main St.
Edible Arrangements    676 Derby Ave.
Griffin Hospital        130 Division St.
McDonald’s        44 Division St.
Naug. Valley .S. & Loan    49 Pershing Dr.
Smile Dental Center    61 Elizabeth St.
Smoke & Bones        1 New Haven Ave.
St. Mary’s/St. Michael’s     14 Seymour Ave.
TEAM, Inc.        30 Elizabeth St.
The Dew Drop Inn        25 North Ave.
Webster Bank        500 New Haven Ave.

Monroe
Salon Sanctuary        380 Monroe Tpke.
Adrianna’s Pizza        244 Roosevelt Drive

Oxford   
All Star Transportation    516 Oxford Rd.
Coldwell Banker R.E.    71 Oxford Rd.
Key Air LLC        3 Juliano Dr.
Oxford Town Hall        486 Oxford Rd.
Smile Dental Center    318 Oxford Rd.
Webster Bank        60 Oxford Rd.

Seymour
All Star Transportation    591 North Main St.
Cole Heating & Cooling    100 S. Main St.
EnV Hair Lounge        225 West St.
Naug. Valley Svgs. & Loan     249 West St.
Seymour Library        46 Church St.
Seymour Police Dept.    11 Franklin St.
Seymour Town Hall        1 First St.
Sikorsky Fin. Credit Union    253 West St.
Staffworks        117 Main St.
Strand Theater        165 Main St.
Webster Bank        15 New Haven Rd.
Yankee Clipper Barbershop    19 Chucta Rd.

Shelton       
A Child’s Garden        20 Ivy Brook Rd
Alpha Veterans Disability    19 Forest Pkwy.
Bank of America        1 Trap Falls Rd.
Barnum Financial Group    6 Corporate Dr.
Better Athletic Dev.        33 Hull St.
Billy D’s Full Belly Deli     58 Bridgeport Ave.
Bpt. Ave. Shell & Novelty    99 Bridgeport Ave.
Bright Horizons        3 Corporate Drive
Comfort Keepers        500 Howe Ave.
Cork & Keg        515 Bridgeport Ave.
Curtiss-Ryan        333 Bridgeport Ave.
D’Addario, Buick, Nissan    329 Bridgeport Ave.
Echo Hose Ambulance    100 Meadow St.
First Niagara Bank        350 Bridgeport Ave.
First United Methodist    188 Rocky Rest Road
G. V. Chamber of Commerce    900 Bridgeport Ave.
Happy Day Preschool    41 Church St.
Hawley Lane Shoes    862 Bridgeport Ave.
Hewitt Health & Rehab    45 Maltby St.
Huntington Family Dental     534 Shelton Ave.
Huntington Library        41 Church St.
Liquid Lunch        434 Howe Ave.
Liquid Lunch         6 Research Drive
Marks by Design        500 D Howe Ave.
Newtown Savings Bank    194 Leavenworth Ave.
People’s United Bank    500 Shelton Road
Perkin Elmer        710 Bridgeport Ave.
Pine Rock Fire House    722 Long Hill Ave.
Plumb Memorial Library    65 Wooster St.
Pumpkin Pre School    100 Beard Sawmill Rd.
Scinto Group        1 Corporate Drive
Sears            705 Bridgeport Ave.
Serra & DelVecchio        112 Huntington St.
Shelton City Hall        54 Hill St.
Shelton Senior Center    81 Wheeler St.
Sikorsky F.C. U.        711 Bridgeport Ave.
Susanna Wesley School    338 Walnut Tree Hill Road
TD Bank            820 Bridgeport Ave.
Tutor Time         708 Bridgeport Ave.
United Methodist Homes    580 Long Hill Ave.
Valley United Way        54 Grove St.
Webster Bank        506 Shelton Ave.
Webster Bank        502 Howe Ave.
Webster Bank        375 Bridgeport Ave.
William Raveis Real Estate    2 Huntington St.
Wonder Years Learning     188 Rocky Rest Road

Woodbridge
Antonio’s         208 Amity Road
Woodbridge Public Library    10 Newton Lane
Woodbridge Senior Center    4 Meetinghouse Lane



This is taken from a press release from TEAM, Inc.

Seymour seeks nominees for Sports Hall of Fame

SEYMOUR - The Seymour High School Sports Hall of Fame committee has successfully completed its inaugural induction of coaches and athletes into its Sports Hall of Fame.

Members "are extremely appreciative of the overwhelming support of the local community in recognizing our inductees," the committee said in a release. "Without their continued support it would not be possible to honor coaches and athletes at this level."

The committee is now focusing on the induction class for 2014 and is currently accepting written nomination forms at Seymour High School.

Completed forms should be mailed to SHSSHoF, 2 Botsford Road, Seymour, 06483 before April 15, 2014 to enable sufficient time for processing.

The committee is also encouraging new memberships.
Persons interested in joining the committee can do so by attending monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Seymour High School, Room 109.


This post is taken from a press release.

Street closures slated in Shelton, Derby for Thanksgiving Day 5K

Photo from City of Derby website

The Commodore Hull Thanksgiving Day 5K Road Race will be conducted on Thanksgiving morning and will wind its way through the streets of Shelton and Derby commencing at 8 a.m. and concluding by 9:30 a.m.

It is anticipated that there will be about 750 runners on the roads during that time. During the duration of the race, roads on the course will be temporarily closed.

The following streets will be affected:

Shelton
Canal Street
Cornell Street
Howe Avenue
Bridge Street
Derby/Shelton Bridge

Derby
Main Street at Olivia Street/Roosevelt Drive
Elizabeth Street at Main Street
Elizabeth Street at Third Street
Elizabeth Street at Thompson Place
Elizabeth Street at Fifth Street
Elizabeth Street at Cottage Street
Elizabeth Street at Seymour Avenue/Caroline Street

Residents along the race course are asked to be aware of runners on the course in entering or leaving driveways with their motor vehicles.


This is a press release from Derby resident Jack Walsh, race committee member.

Bird count, tree identification on tap at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center has two fun and educational programs scheduled for Dec. 14.


Members of the New Haven Bird Club will be out at daybreak or before to begin the 114th year of the Christmas Bird Count.

During this annual tradition, they will be locating, identifying, and counting every bird they can find.

After club members take a short break in the Nature Center building around noontime, the public may join this group of dedicated birders as they scout the park.
There is no need to be a skilled birder to participate in the event.

Bird count results are sent to the National Audubon Society, and are included din the international census of early winter bird populations.

Call 203-736-1053 to register, or contact Maria Stockmal, 203-488-3876 if you would like to participate.
The program is suitable for adults and older students with an interest in wildlife.

Winter tree identification
At 2 p.m. educator Alison Rubelmann will lead a winter tree identification hike.
Learn about branching habits, leaf scars, bark and other helpful field characteristics that will enable you to recognize these trees even in winter.

The Nature Center is fortunate to have a wide variety of native trees, as well as some non-native species, thriving in a mixed deciduous forest within the park.

This free program is suitable for adults and school-aged children with an interest in natural history.

To register, call 203-736-1053. The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.


This post is taken from a press release.

Needlecraft program planned at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - Back to Basics: Needle Felting will be held at 1 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road.

Participants will join needlecraft wizard Dawn Sotir to learn an ancient craft,
They will be able to use their creativity to make beautiful and practical items from natural fibers and create a 3D animal of their choice.

Pre-registration is required for this class geared toward adults and older students. Call 203-736-1053. Fee is $8 per person.


This post is taken from a press release from the nature center.

Shelton facility holds rehab reunion

Former Bishop Wicke rehab patient William Wheeler is pictured with Rehab Services Director, Moira Ethier. / Contributed photo

SHELTON - Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center opened its doors to welcome back past rehab patients and their families at their bi-annual Rehab Reunion earlier this month.

The event provided patients and their family members with an opportunity to reunite with staff and other former patients after returning home from a short-term rehab stay at the facility.
As a result of the many friendships formed between patients, family members and staff during the rehabilitation process, the reunion serves as a way to not only celebrate these relationships, but allow them to continue to grow. 
Staff members were thrilled to see the progress of their patients as they returned with greater strength and increased mobility, and many smiles, hugs, and stories were shared.

The reunion was held in the newly renovated resident dining room and the Bishop Wicke dining team provided refreshments.
Personal tours of the new building renovations, which were completed in October, were offered at the conclusion of the event.

For information about short-term rehab at Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center at Wesley Village, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.


This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Hospital gets donation of electronic tablets from Shelton auto dealer

Pictured from left, Samantha Regina, child life therapist, Bridgeport Hospital’s SurgEase ambulatory surgery center;  Amy Huff, child life therapist, Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital Bridgeport Hospital campus; Tom D’Addario of D’Addario Auto Group; and Eric Labonte, physical therapist, Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital. / Contributed photo

Thanks to the generosity of the D’Addario Auto Group of Shelton, Bridgeport Hospital has received a donation of 10 Starlight Children’s Foundation electronic tablets for use by pediatric patients while they are in the hospital.

The gifts will help the hospital’s child life therapists and other staff by educating and entertaining young patients who are undergoing treatment.


This post is taken from a press release from Bridgeport Hospital.

Seymour church to host Thanksgiving service

SEYMOUR - The Seymour-Oxford Clergy Association will sponsor an Ecumenical Thanksgiving Eve Service at 7 p.m. Nov. 27 at Great Hill United Methodist Church, 225 Great Hill Road.

Service will begin with a joyful setting of the altar as the gathering churches bring elements in prayerful preparation.

All are invited to join as we gather together with thankful hearts for an evening of praise and sharing of Holy Communion.


This is a press release from Great Hill United Methodist Church.