Griffin Hospital nurse recognized for work with families of Alzheimer's patients

Griffin Hospital’s Cary Carpino, RN, of Oakville, second from left, poses with, from left, Maria Tomasetti, CT Alzheimer's Association South Central Regional Director, Diane Betkoski of Griffin Hospital’s Lifeline Service, and Carolyn DeRocco, CT Alzheimer's Association Sr. Director of Education and Programs. Carpino was honored at Alzheimer's Association’s Annual Excellence in Caregiving Luncheon at The Spring Glen Church in Hamden. / Contributed photo

DERBY - Cary Carpino of Griffin Hospital’s Community Outreach and Valley Parish Nurse Program was one of more than 25 area caregivers recently honored by The South Central Regional Office of the Alzheimer's Association, CT Chapter.

Carpino, of Oakville, was recognized for her dedication and support to patients, families and friends living with Alzheimer’s disease at the association’s annual Excellence in Caregiving Luncheon in November at the Spring Glen Church in Hamden. 
Carpino leads Griffin Hospital’s Alzheimer’s disease monthly support group.

“Cary’s positive approach to helping families cope with this dreaded disease is inspirational,” said Diane Betkoski of Griffin Hospital’s Lifeline Service. 

“She is professional in her approach and communicates in a friendly manner resulting in a trusting relationship. These qualities make Cary an outstanding support to individuals and families struggling with this disease.
"Cary is a role model for other healthcare professionals who work in this field. Her dedication to helping families is noteworthy for this recognition.”

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

  

Former Ansonia resident, 10, helps others at Christmas

Anthony Mabery joins Riley's Army members to help hospital patients, families on Christmas Day. / Contributed photo

 
Today I wrote a story about Anthony Mabery, who is battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia. A former Ansonia and Bridgeport resident, he now lives in Greenville, N.C.

From what his grandfather and his aunt have told me, Anthony understands the true spirit of Christmas.

He joined others in an organization called Riley's Army to serve Christmas dinner to patients and their families in the hospital, the same hospital where he had been a patient a few days earlier.

Riley's Army members and Anthony pose at the hospital on Christmas Day. / Contributed photo

Hilltop Hose Company 5 in Ansonia held a bone marrow drive Saturday for Anthony and all those who suffer from blood diseases.

Anthony is clearly a remarkable and resilient young boy. I wish him and his family a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Ansonia to open Armory for walking

By Register Staff

ANSONIA >> The Ansonia Armory will open its doors to residents for walking and exercise starting Monday, Jan. 6, 2014, Mayor David S. Cassetti said.
"During the winter months it is very difficult for our residents to find a safe, warm place to walk and exercise," he said.


"The Armory provides a location that many residents are familiar with and a comfortable environment with good space for walking,” Cassetti said.

"The Armory at 5 State St. will be open from 7-9 a.m. starting Jan. 6, and will remain open until further notice,” he said.

“I encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity. It’s a great way to get the blood flowing and shake off the cold weather with a nice indoor walk.”

Kids to get crafty at Derby Public Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites children in kindergarten through Grade 4 to stop by the library at 3:45 p.m. Jan. 14 for a winter-themed Crafty Kids program.

All materials will be provided; there is no fee to attend.

Registration is requested.

For information or to register, call the Children’s Room, 203-736-1482, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.


This is a press release from Sue Sherman, Children's Librarian, Derby Public Library.  

Volunteers sought at Wesley Village in Shelton

SHELTON - Volunteering at Wesley Village can be a highly rewarding experience.

Owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave., provides a wide range of opportunities for volunteers to serve seniors in a variety of housing and healthcare settings.

Volunteers are needed to help in the following areas: playing piano or guitar, transporting to and from the beauty salon via wheelchair, friendly visitors, manicures, scrabble, flex and stretch, walking club, coffee hour, travel buff, history buff, book club leader, pinochle player, poker, word games, trivia, and bingo.

We will match your talents and skills with our needs.  There are many opportunities for adults and students age 14 and older.

If you have time to help others and are looking for a satisfying experience that can contribute to an overall feeling of well-being and health - volunteer.  

For information contact Barbara Quinn, Director of Volunteers at Wesley Village, 203-944-8292.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Cross-country skiing slated at Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center

ANSONIA - If there is snow on the ground at 10 a.m. Jan. 12 the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center has invited people to learn about cross-country skiing at that time.

Enjoy gliding over the fields and along wooded trails of the nature center, 10 Deerfield Road.

If there is no snow, a hike is planned that will include information about local natural history.


The alternate snow date is Feb. 9.

Participants are asked to register at least a week in advance by calling 203-736-1053.

For those who do not have their own equipment, rentals are available from Rotary Ski Shop in Stratford.


Call the shop at 203-375-5261 at least a week in advance to reserve equipment and arrange to pick up the rental equipment the day before the program.




This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center. 

Tween Tuesdays on tap at Derby Public Library

DERBY - The newly introduced Tween Tuesdays program for ages 10-12 continues at the Derby Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 21.

Tweens will have an opportunity to use their creative talents with several craft projects.

All materials will be provided and there is no fee to attend.

Registration is requested.

For information or to register, call the Children’s Room, 203-736-1482, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.



This is a press release from Sue Sherman, Children's Librarian, Derby Public Library. 

Barber shop in Shelton starts monkey love drive

By Patricia Villers, New Haven Register

Posted: 12/27/13, 10:55 PM EST  

Love comes in all shapes and sizes, especially the kind that comes from plush monkeys.

It’s time again for the Monkey Love Drive, started eight years ago by owners of the now closed Luther’s Garage auto-repair business in downtown Shelton.

The idea is simple: Collect monkeys to be distributed to less fortunate children on Valentine’s Day.
A growing pile of stuffed simians has already taken over a large table at J-Cuts Barber Shop at 505 Howe Ave., Shelton.

Jennifer Sneider surrounded by stuffed monkeys.

Owner Jennifer Sneider said Thursday the drive started earlier this month and that’s why she already has so many in her shop.

“It’s always so much fun,” said Sneider. “The kids (who come into the shop) get a little confused. They think the monkeys are for sale or they can take them, like the lollipops.”

Sneider said most of the ones already collected were donated by members of the Milford Fire Department.
She said she doesn’t really set a collection goal. “It’s always just a challenge to beat (the number collected) last year, and that’s what keeps us going.”

This is the fourth year she has spearheaded the drive at her shop.
Sneider said, “It is an amazing feeling to know each and every one of these monkeys will find comfort in the arms of a child in need and the children will find comfort in these monkeys. Each year, we hope to have an even more successful drive to create miles of smiles on the faces of precious children in great need.”

Additional drop off locations include Minuteman Press, 427 Howe Ave., Suite 2, and the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce office, 10 Progress Drive, second floor, both in Shelton.
For the fourth year, Topside Cafe, 333 Boston Post Road, Milford, is a drop-off site. Last year, the business collected about 50 plush monkeys.

Members of the Keith Urban “Ville” fan club and Facebook page send stuffed monkeys to Connecticut from all over the world. Last year, Urban’s fans collected more than 1,160 of the toys.

A total of 1,628 children received monkeys last Valentine’s Day.
The children were clients of TEAM, Inc. in Derby, BHcare in Ansonia, and Griffin Hospital in Derby, among others.
For health reasons, the monkeys must be new and clean with tags.


Have questions, feedback or ideas about our news coverage? Connect directly with the editors of the New Haven Register at AskTheRegister.com.

Reminder: bone marrow drive is today in Ansonia

Anthony Mabery

ANSONIA - Hilltop Hose Company 5 volunteer firefighters will hold a bone marrow drive from 1 to 4 p.m. today at the firehouse, 80 Pulaski Highway.

The drive will benefit anyone who needs a bone marrow transplant, including former Ansonia resident Anthony Mabery, 10.
He is the grandson of Hilltop Hose past captain Tim Holman.

Anthony is battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He was hospitalized earlier this month but Holman said Friday his grandson was able to go home for Christmas.

Legislators welcome Derby school funding

     State Reps. Linda M. Gentile, D-Ansonia,, Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, and state Sen. Joseph Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, welcomed the State Bond Commission’s approval of a grant in aid for the Derby school system. 

       The $115,527 will provide for technology wiring upgrades in order to meet the requirements of Common Core education standards. (http://www.corestandards.org/the-standards).
 
     “I want to thank Governor Malloy and the members of the Bond Commission for their support to upgrade Derby schools,” Gentile said.  
      “Schools rely on technology more than ever before but sometimes educators find that their school infrastructure doesn't support these advances in technology. This funding will help Derby schools to make the appropriate upgrade which is great news.”
     “Upgrading our schools, especially when it comes to technology, is always a solid investment.” Conroy said.
     “These grants will provide greater access to technology and help students learn to use the tools they’ll need to keep current and keep learning, throughout their formal education and throughout their careers,” Crisco said.
   “The bonus feature of this funding is preparation for the new generation of assessments that will be computer reliant with interactive features; these new computers are an essential component of the Common Core standards and this new assessment method.”

    “We believe our teachers can accomplish significant results when they are supported with the proper resources,” Malloy said.
      “Investing in technological improvements in our schools will help educators prepare students to compete in the 21st Century economy.”

This is a press release from Gentile's office.

Crisco hails funds to rebuild Valley fire training school

HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, Jr., D-Woodbridge, today welcomed news of imminent state funding to advance the process that will eventually rebuild a Naugatuck Valley Regional Fire Training School. 

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has scheduled a special meeting of the State Bond Commission at which funding for hazardous materials remediation will be allocated,  Crisco said.

More specifically, $1.5 million is expected to be approved for site clean-up as necessary at seven parcels designated for fire training schools, including the Naugatuck Valley site.

In 2010 Crisco helped secure funding for the purchase of land in Beacon Falls. That property will be the new home of the regional facility, replacing the former site in Derby, which was closed more than 10 years ago.

“No one is more sensitive to the state’s delicate fiscal condition than I am, but this investment in public safety preparedness will pay for itself in terms of readiness for fire departments throughout the region, and in terms of a recruitment tool for future firefighters,” Crisco said. 
“I’m delighted by the prospects for this funding and I’m grateful to Governor Malloy for including this item on the agenda for next week’s special meeting.”

Crisco said nine area towns – Ansonia, Seymour, Shelton, Derby, Orange, Woodbridge, Oxford, Beacon Falls, and Bethany – will eventually send firefighters to the Valley Regional Fire Training School on the property in Beacon Falls.

“I know I echo the sentiments of firefighters throughout the region with appreciation for all those who have joined me in these efforts toward a new, permanent home for the Valley Regional Fire Training School,” Crisco said. “For more than 10 years local firefighters have had to keep current with firefighting techniques and equipment by traveling statewide for the necessary instruction and training.”

“And the benefits of this new training facility won’t be limited to firefighters and fire departments, because every single resident and property owner in the affected towns will benefit in terms of increased public safety and improved preparedness for firefighters.”

This is a press release from Crisco's office.

Oxford museum to host open house on 12th Day of Christmas

Miniature village on display at Oxford museum. / Contributed photo

OXFORD - The Twitchell-Rowland Homestead Museum celebrates the 12th Day of Christmas and the end of the holidays with an open house from 2-4 p.m. Jan. 5.

The museum is located at 60 Towner Lane, off Route 67.
The open house will feature a miniature village with lamp-lit streets, a working railroad, tiny houses, people and animals, and a ski slope.

Also on display is a collection of vintage children's toys, circa 1930-1950.
Admission to the 1755 saltbox decorated for the season by the Oxford Garden Club is free. Refreshments will be served.

For further information call 203-888-0230.

Ansonia Nature Center to hold gluten-free cooking program

ANSONIA - Join certified holistic health coach and personal chef Kari Doering from Body Awareness at 1 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Ansonia Nature Center to learn about preparation and enjoyment of healthy and delicious foods without gluten.


Attendees will get an opportunity to taste samples.

Fee is $5 a person. To register, call 203-736-1053.

The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.


This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

Ansonia police make arrest in shooting of Derby man

Gordon Cole

By Patricia Villers, New Haven Register

Posted: 12/27/13, 11:39 AM EST |

 

ANSONIA >> Police Thursday arrested Gordon Cole, 18, in connection with a shooting Sunday afternoon of a Derby man during an attempted robbery at 14 Lester St.

Lt. Wayne Williams said in a release that at approximately 6:45 p.m. Thursday an area resident reported to police that Cole was in the Olson Drive area.
Officers responded to the second horseshoe of the Riverside Housing Complex on Olson Drive and Cole was taken into custody, Williams said.

Cole, of Enterprise, Ala., has been charged with first-degree assault, first-degree robbery, second-degree larceny and carrying a weapon without a permit.
Cole was held in lieu of $100,000 bail and was scheduled to be arraigned today in Derby Superior Court.

The 22-year old victim suffered a single gunshot wound to the lower back area. Police said he was transported to Bridgeport Hospital for treatment of his injury, which was non-life threatening.

Ansonia preschool to hold open house

ANSONIA - Redwing Pond House Preschool will hold an open house from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 11.

The facility on the grounds of the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center is a unique, licensed, nature-based preschool offering high quality education for three-to five-year olds.

The preschool is at 21 Milan St.

For information call director Jacqueline Lema, 203-734-7974.

Christmas in the Valley

Tree brightens Veterans' Park in Ansonia.

Wishing a Merry Christmas to all!

Ansonia mayor sends season's greetings

A holiday message:

 "I would like to take this opportunity to say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year.

"We are entering the New Year on a high note. Last Saturday our community shared a joint parade between our National Championship Cheerleading squads and our Number 1
ranked high school football team.

"As we celebrate this holiday season, we should focus on what we have and the
accomplishments we can be proud of. Enjoy the time you spend with family and friends, but
do not forget about your neighbor who might be alone this holiday season. I believe the
holiday season is about sharing joy and blessings.

"My family and all of the dedicated City Hall staff wish you joy and happiness throughout the
season and New Year.

"I see great things on the horizon for Ansonia and I am looking forward to making 2014 a
wonderful year for our residents."

 - Mayor David S. Cassetti

Ansonians cheer athletes at 'Parade of Champions'

ANSONIA - Saturday's parade to honor the Ansonia High School Chargers and four Ansonia youth cheerleading teams was filled with 'Ansonia Pride.'
 
As a city resident I enjoyed being there and seeing friends as I covered the upbeat event.
Everyone was smiling!




After walking down Main Street the athletes gathered in front of City Hall.






Ansonia High School Band's drum line poses before the parade. Holding the banner are senior Karalyn Meineke, left, and sophomore Mercedes MacLellan. At right is music teacher extraordinaire Maria Tangredi. 

Chargers' Coach Tom Brockett puts an Ansonia cap on his son, Michael, almost 2, before the parade.  

And here star player Arkeel Newsome takes a turn holding his coach's son, Michael.
 

The coach's wife, Nikki Brockett and their daughter, Alyssa, 4, are ready for the parade.

  Fountain Hose Company Engine 1 ready to roll.

 

Mayor David S. Cassetti and David Jr. pose before the parade. 

Ansonia resident Chinetta Bass and her daughter, Brianna, exemplify enthusiasm as they cheer the athletes.

The Youth Cheerleaders are all smiles as they proudly march down Main Street Saturday with their championship trophies. 

Champions listen to Cassetti's remarks outside City Hall.  

Senior Saiheed Sanders shakes hands with Cassetti after the program.

 

Jewel Cannon, 4, sported beads with the team colors in her hair. She was there to cheer for her cousin, sophomore Tajik Bagley, a Charger player.

Ansonia resident Shawn Venson shows off four Charger championship rings.

Two members of the Ansonia High School Class of 1957 pose with senior star player Arkeel Newsome. They are Judy Larkin Nicolari of Ansonia and Bob Barth of Shelton.


Congratulations to the champions!  

Ansonia volunteer firefighters seek to help boy fighting leukemia

Save the date: Bone marrow drive slated Dec. 28

By Patricia Villers, New Haven Register Posted: 12/20/13, 12:46 PM EST | Updated: 37 secs ago

ANSONIA >> Former Ansonia resident Anthony Mabery, 10, who now lives in Greenville, N.C., has been battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia since February 2006.

On Dec. 28, members of Hilltop Hose Company 5 will hold a bone marrow drive from 1 to 4 p.m. at the firehouse, 80 Pulaski Highway.

The drive is not only for Anthony but also for anyone in need of a bone marrow transplant, said Hilltop Hose Company past Capt. Tim Holman, Anthony’s grandfather.

Holman said a recent bone marrow drive held in Bridgeport drew about 100 possible donors, and he hopes even more people will show up on Dec. 28 for the drive. “It’s really simple (to register),” Holman said. “They swab your mouth. It takes two minutes.”

Holman said his grandson remains upbeat despite all the medical problems he faces. “One thing remains constant, his faith and optimism,” Holman said. “There’s no cure, but there’s hope.”
Anthony was admitted into a hospital in North Carolina Tuesday (Dec. 17), said his aunt, Shantana Hazel of Bridgeport.

Hazel is the sister of Starneisha Maye, Anthony’s mother, who is formerly of Ansonia and Bridgeport. Hazel spoke to Anthony Tuesday, and she said he sounded confident he would not be staying in the hospital for long.
She said she and Anthony have a special bond because she suffers from several medical problems including endometriosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

 “He’s a chill, laid-back kid, brighter than the average 10 year old,” Hazel said. “He knows everything about the medication he takes. He smiles through it all.”

Hazel is the founder of Sister-Girl Foundation. The organization focuses on helping women facing medical issues ranging from endometriosis to gynecological cancers, she said. “The joy in my life comes from having this foundation,” Hazel said.

 Sister-Girl is one of the sponsors of the bone marrow drive, along with Delete Blood Cancer and the Positive Men’s Organization in Ansonia. Holman is president of the men’s club. Monetary donations will also be accepted at the Dec. 28 drive, Hazel said.

 Have questions, feedback or ideas about our news coverage? Connect directly with the editors of the New Haven Register at AskTheRegister.com.

Derby Library gets Yudkin Fund grant for blinds

The reference room in the Derby Public Library./ Contributed photo

    DERBY - The Derby Public Library recently received a grant from the Selma L. and Harold B.

Yudkin Fund with the Valley Community Foundation for the purchase of a light-filtering system.

The system will protect both local history materials and computers from the harsh effects of direct sunlight. 

The Yudkins have been long-time supporters of the Library. Yudkin’s portrait hangs prominently in the Local History Room.  

The Derby Public Library thanks Selma Yudkin for her generosity and the Valley Community Foundation for their support, said Director Cathy Williams.  

The library is at 313 Elizabeth St.

This post is taken from a press release.

Derby Public Library to host Career Coach, Tech Time

    DERBY - The CT Works Career Coach returns to the Derby Public Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 17.

    During both the morning session, 10 a.m.-noon, and the afternoon session, 1-3 p.m., instructors will offer Job Search Assistance.

   Learn where to look for jobs, how to get the job you want, and how to search for jobs on the Internet.

   The workshop is free and open to the public.

   Registration is requested but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first come first served basis.
 
   The CT Works Career Coach is a project of The WorkPlace, Inc. operated by Career Resources.


Tech Time sessions

    The Derby Public Library will hold Tech Time sessions at 6:30 p.m. every third Wednesday of

the month and at 10 a.m. every third Thursday of the month.  There will be a variety of topics covered on a revolving basis.

On Jan. 15 and 16 the topic will be e-Books and Audio Books.

Participants are invited to bring their Kindles, Nooks, tablets, iPhones, androids and other media devices as the Tech Librarian guides them through the process of downloading free books from the Library catalog.

The intent is to help patrons keep up with the ever-changing world of technology.

Ideas for future topics are welcomed.

No reservations are accepted; there is a seven-seat limit per class.


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




This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.
   

Congratulations to the Ansonia Chargers!

Ansonia voted No. 1 in final GameTimeCT /Register football poll  

Ansonia’s players pose for the No. 1 photo at Ansonia High School Friday. Mike Pucci/Register

By Sean Patrick Bowley

Posted: 12/20/13, 11:56 AM EST | Updated: 57 secs ago
 

The state’s writers and broadcasters have spoken.

Ansonia was voted the No. 1 team in Connecticut for 2013. This is the Chargers’ fifth No. 1 final ranking in the GameTimecCT/New Haven Register Top 10 poll. The program was also ranked no. 1 in 2007, 2006, 1989 and 1983.


Read the full story here at GameTimeCT.com.

 

Nursing facility in Shelton recognized

Pictured from left, Rob Lesko, Vice President at the DiMatteo Group and Greater Valley Chamber Board of Directors member, Debra Samorajczyk from Bishop Wicke Health Center, David Lawlor, President and CEO, United Methodist Homes, and Phil White, President, Better Packages, and Chairman, Chamber Board of Directors. Photo courtesy of Fred Ortoli Photography.

SHELTON - The Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce presented Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center with the Silver Hammer Award Dec. 13 in recognition of its outstanding renovation of their skilled nursing and rehab center at Wesley Village.

The award was given at the Chamber’s Annual Holiday Breakfast Club and Awards Celebration. It is presented to organizations in the Valley that have made a significant investment in the local community through the contribution of a beautification or construction project.

Bishop Wicke recently completed renovation of their 120-bed skilled nursing and rehab facility in October, an innovative project that transformed traditional nursing stations into “interdisciplinary work centers” that encourage greater interaction between staff, residents, families, and guests.

The project also included updated sitting and dining areas, therapy rooms, new furniture, lighting, flooring, technology, and artwork throughout the building.

The event was held at Molto Bene Italian American Kitchen in Ansonia.

Rob Lesko, Vice President at the DiMatteo Group, presented the award to David Lawlor, President and CEO of United Methodist Homes, and Debra Samorajczyk, Administrator of Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center on behalf of the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Lesko, Greater Valley Chamber Board member, shared a heartwarming story about his (soon-to-be) 100 year-old aunt and the compassionate care she has received as a resident at Wesley Village.

Bishop Wicke is located on the Wesley Village Campus in Shelton and is owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, a local, not-for-profit organization committed to providing the very best in relationship-centered care.

For more information about Bishop Wicke at Wesley Village, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Griffin to expand radiology services with Valley Community Foundation grant

$200K to be donated over 3 years 

DERBY - The Valley Community Foundation recently helped Griffin Hospital get one step closer to enhancing its Interventional Radiology Suite with a $200,000 grant.

The Foundation will donate the funds over the next three years.

The donation will help Griffin Hospital enhance and expand its IR services with advanced imaging technology that is used to diagnose and treat a vast range of diseases for both inpatients and outpatients.

“Interventional Radiology is considered one of the most advanced medical technologies available, allowing physicians to diagnose and treat patients in ways that cause minimal disruption to their lives” said Griffin Hospital President Patrick Charmel.
“As a leader in patient-centered care, we are always looking for ways to help patients recover more quickly and experience less pain. We are extremely grateful to the Valley Community Foundation for helping us provide the best possible care.”

Griffin Hospital has offered IR services for almost 40 years. Interventional Radiology allows specially trained radiologists to treat a wide variety of medical disorders, ranging from blocked arteries in the limbs and cancer in the liver, to compression fractures of the spine and obstruction in vital organs.

The hospital is looking to raise $500,000 to update its IR imaging suite and create new patient and staff areas to house the equipment.

“The Valley Community Foundation is proud to support Griffin Hospital in its efforts to save lives and improve the well-being of our community,” said Sharon Closius, president and CEO of the Valley Community Foundation.
“By supporting Griffin in securing the best medical resources available, this grant promises to benefit everyone in the Lower Naugatuck Valley.”

About Griffin Hospital Department of Radiology
Griffin Hospital’s Department of Radiology incorporates state-of-the-art imaging in a personalized and healing environment.
Griffin Hospital has continually invested in the best diagnostic imaging equipment to insure cutting-edge technology. The Radiology Department offers low dose mammography screening, ultrasound, PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scans, CT Scans and traditional MRI and Open MRI for those who experience anxiety or claustrophobia during traditional MRI. Griffin’s Diagnostic Imaging Departments are recognized by the Joint Commission as well as credentialed by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in Mammography, MRI, Nuclear Cardiology (SPECT Imaging), Nuclear Medicine: General Planar Imaging, PET, and Ultrasound: General, Breast, GYN, Small Parts and Vascular.
For more information, call 203-732-7260 or visit griffinhealth.org.

About the Valley Community Foundation
The Valley Community Foundation serves Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the Valley Community Foundation awards hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants each year.
Its mission is to make the Valley a better place to live and work, both now and in the future, by connecting private philanthropy to the long-term public good of the Valley.
In addition to grant-making, the Valley Community Foundation helps build a stronger community by providing technical support to nonprofits and promoting philanthropy through givegreater.org.

For more information, visit valleyfoundation.org.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Valley mystery photo

Any guesses where I took this? Leave your responses in the comments. Thanks!

Troupe to perform 'A Christmas Carol' in Shelton

A scene from last Friday's performance of the classic holiday tale. / Contributed photo

SHELTON - The final performance of Valley Shakespeare Festival's "A Christmas Carol" will be staged at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Shelton History Center's Wilson Barn.


Saturday's show was cancelled due to inclement weather, but the cast and crew will re-assemble for one final performance at the Barn.

Tickets are limited and must be reserved in advance through the Valley Shakespeare Festival’s website (www.vsfestival.org) or by calling 203-513-9446.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students/children and children under the age of 5 are admitted free.

The script was adapted solely from Charles Dickens’ text.

The Wilson Barn is an authentic period structure and is not heated, so guests are strongly advised to dress very warmly (including gloves) and bring a lap blanket if possible.

The Shelton Historical Society runs the history center at 70 Ripton Road.


This post is taken from a press release from the Valley Shakespeare Festival.

Ansonia Nature Center Friends to meet

ANSONIA - The monthly meeting of the Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. will be held at Jan. 8 at the Center, 10 Deerfield Road.

New members are welcome.

Volunteers are always needed to help the Nature Center with its daily tasks, family programs, and special events.

For information call 203-736-1053.



This is taken from a press release.

Derby library offers teens chess, board games, more

DERBY - The Derby Public Library Teen Chess Club invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to meetings each Monday in January (excluding holidays) from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

All skill levels are welcome. Participants will learn how the game is played as well as defensive/offensive strategies.

Julio Maldonado provides superb expertise from a life-long love for the game. Registration is requested.


Game Night, book talk

The Derby Public Library hosts YA Wednesdays each month from 6-7:30 p.m.
All young adults ages 12 to 17 are invited to join the fun Jan. 8, for Game Night, featuring the challenges of the Nintendo Wii game system and a variety of board games.

The Teen Book Talk will be hosted Jan. 15 as participants gather to chat about titles each have recently read.
This venue will focus on sharing reviews and opinions on a variety of titles, as well as provide a means to decide upon future reading.

The Lego Construction Project continues Jan. 22.

“Teen Movie Night” will screen a newly released DVD Jan. 29. Light refreshments will be provided.

Registration is requested.

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


This is a press release from Tony DeLos, Young Adult/Reference Librarian, Derby Public Library.

Ansonia Library slates January book talk

   ANSONIA - The Ansonia Library’s monthly book discussion series will feature Elegy for Eddie by Jacqueline Winspear.  

   The discussion will be held at 11 a.m. Jan. 16 in the Library’s Community Room. 

   The program is free and open to the public.
   Copies of the book are available at the library’s circulation desk. The library is at 53 S. Cliff St.

  For information, call Joyce Ceccarelli, 203-734-6275.

 

This is a press release from Joyce Ceccarelli, Director, Ansonia Library.

Bookstore opens in downtown Derby

When I visited Kathy Conroy-Cass, owner of St. Anthony's Book & Gift Shop today in her new location at 142 Main St., Derby, I spied this interesting statuary in the store window.

The store stocks religious-themed jewelry, personalized gifts for baptisms, communions, confirmations and weddings, books, cards, candles, church supplies, and more.

And one could call this "a sign from God."

Caregivers invited to program at Wesley Village in Shelton

SHELTON - Balancing the responsibilities of work, finances, family life, and caring for an aging loved one can leave you feeling “sandwiched” and in need of support.

Caregivers are invited to Wesley Village from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Jan. 15 for the new “Sandwiched” education series.

The program, “Making Sense of the Affordable Care Act for your Aging Loved One,” will help caregivers make sense of the many details within the new Affordable Care Act and learn how they affect their aging loved ones.

This session will feature a presentation by Bev Kidder, Director of the Aging Resource Center and Fred Serra, CEO of Serra & DelVecchio Insurance.
To RSVP, contact Wesley Village at 203-925-4952 or at www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.


All programs will be held at Crosby Commons Assisted Living Community on the Wesley Village Campus,
580 Long Hill Ave. A light supper will be served.

This is a monthly series. Be sure to “Save the Date” for other upcoming programs on the first Wednesday of the month.


This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Yoga classes planned at Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center

ANSONIA - Yoga and Fitness classes will start at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Ansonia Nature and

Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road.

Instructor Pamela Mellitz will lead students through stretching and toning, balance and awareness.

She will also demonstrate the importance of just breathing correctly for better physical and mental health in these full 90-minute sessions.

Cost is $7 per class. Call Pam to register, 203-888-4124.


This is taken from the center calendar.