Leaving one job, but staying in Ansonia

A longtime friend and colleague gave me these beautiful roses.

Dear readers,

I'm still here in Ansonia but I'm moving in a new direction. I hope you'll follow me as I continue to cover stories in the Valley.

The difference is that I'll be doing so on a new site, not connected to the New Haven Register.  

Today is my last day working for the newspaper, after more than 21 years.

My husband Ralph and I hope to launch the site in the next month. It will be called The Valley Voice. 

I also hope you keep reading the Register's coverage of our Valley.

Please follow me on Facebook here for info on the new Valley site.

Thanks as always for reading ~ stay tuned!

Patti

Food Trucks event in Shelton to benefit PCRC

SHELTON - The Parent Child Resource Center will host “Food Trucks in the Valley” from 4-8 p.m. Sept. 18 at the Shelton River Walk to benefit programs and services that serve children and families.

Who: This is an open event.

What: This event is celebrating “Back-to-School” with free admission, while 10 percent of the proceeds from each vendor go towards PCRC’s programs and services. We currently have 12 food trucks confirmed, including healthy options. The PCRC Beverage Table will serve beer, soda, juice and water.

Please follow our social media:

Facebook: Food Trucks in the Valley

Twitter: @ValleyFTs

Instagram: ValleyFoodTrucks

Google +: Parent Child Resource Center

When: Thursday, Sept. 18 from 4-8 pm. The rain date is Sept. 23. WPLR will be attending 5 -7 p.m. with their tent, table, music and goodies.

Where: Derby-Shelton Rotary Pavilion at the Shelton Riverwalk at the intersection of Cornell Street and Canal Street E. Input Address: 80 Canal St. E, Shelton

Why: “Food Trucks in the Valley” will raise funds to support PCRC’s successful clinical programs that deliver a state of the art care to our clients – as a leader in the delivery of mental health services to children and families. Each year we serve more than 1,200 children, many who suffer from serious behavioral and emotional problems, including trauma, abuse, and neglect. 

How: For information on sponsoring or becoming a vendor, contact Veronica Parsloe at 203-954-0543 ext. 130 or vparsloe@LNVPCRC.org.

This is a press release from the Parent Child Resource Center, the leading provider of behavioral health services to children and families in the Lower Naugatuck Valley.
PCRC programs, including the Child Guidance Clinic, Triple P Parenting Program, Therapeutic Mentoring Program, Intensive Outpatient Program, and the Prevention through Early Intervention Program, help children and their families so that they may develop to their fullest potential.

“Saving Lives by Passionately Caring for Children, Families and Community.”

Derby Library to host Lego Time, music, crafts, therapy dogs

  DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites children ages 4-11 to use their creative talents and stir their imaginations during Lego Time at 3:30 p.m. Sept. 11 and at 12:30 p.m. Sept. 20.

  All levels of building skills are welcome to come by for this drop-in program which will be held twice a month. There is no fee to attend and all building materials will be provided.

Library Card Sign-Up Month

    Join the fun Sept. 20 at the Library with several activities planned in celebration of September as Library Card Sign-up Month.
   This open house will offer an opportunity for children to apply for their own library card. 
    Families are invited to attend Story and Craft Time at 10:30 a.m. featuring apple-themed stories and arts and crafts projects. 
    Children ages 4-11 can use their creative talents and stir their imaginations during Lego Time scheduled for 12:30 p.m. All levels of building skills are welcome to participate.  

    Registration is requested. There is no fee to attend.  

Crafty kids

    The Derby Public Library welcomes children in kindergarten through Grade 3 to attend Crafty Kids at 3:45 p.m. Sept. 16 for the first after-school program of the new school year.  Get creative during this back to school-themed arts and crafts program.

    Registration is requested.  There is no fee to attend and materials will be supplied.  

Tween Tuesdays

     The Derby Public Library will offer Tween Tuesdays as part of the fall lineup of events.  This program is geared for 10-12 year olds with an opportunity to make a new friend while tapping in to their creative talents through activities such as arts and crafts projects and cooking demos.  All materials are provided and there is no fee to attend.

    Registration is requested. There is no fee to attend and materials will be supplied.  

Turn It Up!

      Children ages 3-8 are invited to the Derby Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 23 for Turn It Up!  
      For this interactive music program, Sandi Schuchman will feature songs and movement with a night-time theme. Children are welcome to wear their pajamas and bring along a fuzzy bedtime friend to share this evening event.

     There is no fee to attend, but registration is requested. 

Therapy dogs to visit

    Read to Payson will be held at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 30 when the popular children’s reading to a therapy dog program continues for the fall.  
   Children ages 5-11 are invited to share a book with Payson during this interactive reading program.

    Each child will be given a 10-15 minute time slot to read to Payson, an Australian Shepherd rescue dog who was found roaming the streets of Kentucky.  
    She and her owner, Janet Sabovik, are registered with Therapy Dogs, Inc. and volunteer throughout the community.

    This is a great opportunity for beginner or reluctant readers, as well as experienced readers, to build confidence, enhance their reading skills achieved during the school year and encourage a love of reading.  
     Participants are encouraged to stop by the Children’s Room to select a book with Payson’s “paw of approval” to share with her for the program.

     Registration is requested..  

      For further information or to register for any of the above programs,  call the Children’s Room at 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.

Derby Scouts to host shopping bus trip

DERBY - Troop 3 Boy Scouts will be hosting a "A Pre-Holiday Shopping Bus Trip" Oct. 11 to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley, N.Y.

Bus departs Derby train station at 7:45 a.m.
Spend the day shopping in stores such as Ann Taylor, Armani, Banana Republic, Tommy Hillfiger, and many more.
The bus returns to Derby train station for 8 p.m. arrival.

Tickets are $40. Continental breakfast and snack on the way home are included.

For tickets and to reserve a seat call Pamela, 203-513-7129 or Carole, 203-735-7519.

All proceeds will benefit the Boy Scouts of Troop 3, Derby.


This is a press release from Troop 3.

Derby/Shelton AMVETS Post 43 team is top fundraiser

The Derby/Shelton AMVETS Post 43 2014 Sunset Run For The Warriors Team, from left: Raquel Homes, Jennifer Casceillo, Bonnie Dunlap, Tammy Duda, Tonya Dzwonkowski, CaraMarie Carbonis, Shawn Allen, Lauren Cust, Al Meadows, Fred Benham. 
Front row: Arabella Carboni, Ronan Carboni, and Mary Mae Cust. Team members Josh Phillips, Zola Quoa, and Zake Phillips missing from photo. / Contributed photo

For the second year in a row Shelton resident Lauren Cust, a wounded warrior from Operation Iraqi Freedom, and her Derby/Shelton AMVETS (American Veterans) Post 43 team were the top fundraisers for the (5th) Annual Sunset Run For The Warriors at the Huntington Green Aug. 17.
Lauren was the top individual fundraiser and AMVETS Post 43 was the top team fundraiser with $1,445 donated for the race.
Post 43 has more thanr 30 female veteran members and over 50 Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan)/Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans out of a total of 150 members.

The mission of Hope For The Warriors is to enhance the quality of life for post-9/11 service members, their families, and families of the fallen who have sustained physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty.

Veterans and non-veterans are invited to join future AMVETS Post 43 teams. Visit them on Facebook: CT AMVETS Post 43 or Operation Gift Cards


This is a press release from Shelton resident Al Meadows.

Talks at Griffin in Derby to focus on diabetes

DERBY - The Diabetes Education & Support Group at Griffin Hospital will host two free presentations about diabetes research Sept. 9 at the hospital, 130 Division St.

Patricia Chandler, MD, Director of Pfizer New Haven Clinical Research Unit, and Rockiy Ayettey, MS, Grants Coordinator and Research Associate, Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center will host “What’s New in Diabetes Research?” 

The program will give an in-depth view of new developments in diabetes and diabetes studies being conducted at both facilities will be discussed.

The presentations will be at 2:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Childbirth Classroom A and at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Dining Room. 

Ask for directions to these rooms at the hospital’s front desk.

The Diabetes Education & Support Group meets September - 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 Mary Swansiger, 203-732-1137.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Parent workshops, story times planned at Derby Library

 DERBY - Registration is under way for the fall session of Family Place Parent/Child Workshops  at the Derby Public Library starting  Sept. 15.

    This innovative program is a time for families to share together with their 1-3 year old children.  
    Siblings age 5 and under are also welcome to attend.  
    This free, five-week session will be held on Mondays from 10-11:15 a.m.  
   The workshops feature puzzles, books, blocks, a craft, dramatic play and more.  
   Parents/caregivers will also be introduced to some of the many resources available to them to assist in the raising of their toddlers and have an opportunity to meet new friends in an educational and creative environment.

      Each workshop will focus on a different topic and will feature a professional from the community who will be available to discuss parenting questions and concerns.  
     Topics will include child development, nutrition, immunization and more.  Do not miss the opportunity to consult with experts on a no-fee basis while your child enjoys a wonderful play experience.  
      Space is limited; registration is requested.  
      Families are encouraged to attend all the workshops to obtain the full benefits of this program.

      The Family Place is a national initiative of Americans for Libraries Council and Middle Country Library.

      The Family Place of Connecticut is made possible through the generous support of the Katharine Matthies Foundation. 

Story times

        

        Registration is also being held for the fall session of story times. This story time session will run from Sept. 10-Dec. 12.   
        The Library offers weekly, age-appropriate programs for children birth to 5 years old.    

        Beginning at 10 a.m. Sept. 10 infants along with a parent/caregiver are invited to attend Baby and Me, which introduces our youngest patrons to the library and books through simple songs and rhymes, movement, board books and interaction with their caregiver.  
       The program will run for 20 minutes followed by play and conversation.

       Nursery Rhyme Time for toddlers 12 to 24 months old along with a caregiver will take place on at 10 a.m. Thursdays.  Finger plays, songs, movement, stories and rhymes will be included in this half-hour program.  The first class will be Sept. 11.

      Time for Twos begins at 11 a.m.  Sept. 11 with stories, songs, finger plays and a simple craft for children who are between 25 and 35 months olds along with a caregiver.  

     Children 3-5 years old are welcome to join us for stories, songs, instruments, literacy games and a craft at 10 a.m. Fridays beginning Sept. 12. 
       Preschool Story Time is designed to be an early school-readiness experience, an introduction to peer interaction and improved listening skills.   
      Children are encouraged to attend this story time independently while a caregiver remains in the Children’s Room area.               

    Registration is requested.  
    For information or to register for any of the above programs, 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. 

  

Staff at school in Derby trained for health emergencies

Through a grant from the Valley Community Foundation, St. Mary- St. Michael School in Derby purchased an AED or Automatic External Defibrillator. 

Carol Carloni, school nurse, and Cathi Kellett, Valley Parish Nurse Program, provided CPR and AED certification training to the staff.  

As part of educating people on the importance of a healthy lifestyle, the Griffin Hospital Community Outreach Mobile Unit conducted cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood glucose screenings on staff members before the start of the new school year. / Contributed photo

This is a press release from St. Mary-St. Michael School.  

Griffin in Derby to host talks on reproductive health

DERBY - Griffin Hospital is starting a free series of talks about female reproductive health at 6 p.m. Sept. 9.

OB-GYN Christopher Bauer, M.D., will host the first presentation of “Beyond the Birds and Bees” with a discussion about birth control.

Bauer will cover all forms of birth control, including contraceptive and non-contraceptive, and each the risks and benefits of each to help women find what form suits them. 

This talk is especially beneficial to young women and their parents in helping them discuss sexual health.

Upcoming talks in this series will discuss how to prepare for pregnancy, options for those who have problems getting pregnant and menopause.

The presentation is part of Griffin Hospital's Healthy U “Tuesday Talks,” a series of free wellness talks featuring Griffin Hospital medical experts and community partners providing trusted health information and answers to questions on a wide range of topics.

All Tuesday Talks are held in Griffin Hospital’s Meditation and Learning Center at 130 Division St. Light refreshments will be served.

To reserve a spot or for more information, call 203.732.1511 or visit the calendar at griffinhealth.org.

Ansonia library to host book discussion

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Library’s monthly book discussion series will feature Last To Die, (a Rizzoli and Isles Novel) by Tess Gerritsen.  

The discussion will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 25 in the Ansonia 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 further information, call Joyce Ceccarelli at the Ansonia Library at 203-734-6275.

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

Children's program on dental care slated at Derby Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library will host a special children’s program focusing on dental care at 10 a.m.  Sept. 4.

Children ages 3-6 along with a caregiver are invited to attend this fun, interactive, and educational program presented by the Commerce Park Dental Group.

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.  

Mother Nature abbreviates Ansonia concert

Simply Swing performs Wednesday at Veterans Park in Ansonia.

ANSONIA - Threatening skies cut short a performance by the 10-piece Simply Swing orchestra Wednesday night at Veterans Park.

The Newington-based band played classics from Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and more for almost an hour in what would have been a two-hour show.

It was the last concert of the summer series sponsored by the Cultural Commission. The musicians said they would return to Ansonia next summer.

I'm looking forward to hearing them perform again, and no doubt many other audience members feel the same.

Derby Neck Library offers games, tech talk, movies, and more

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave. will present a free program, Ancient Games, for 'tweens, teens, and adults at 6 p.m. Sept. 2.
Come learn Go, parcheesi, mancala, chess, and similar games.
All boards and instructions are provided to help you enjoy these games of strategy.

Photo of library taken from website

Dinner and a movie

The Library will host Dinner and a Movie (for adults 18 and older) at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 4.
This month’s feature film is Blue Jasmine by Woody Allen, shown on blu-ray.
Refreshments will be served, including free pizza at intermission.

Women's Forum

The Library will host Women's Forum at 12:30 p.m. Sept 15.  Women’s Forum is a monthly discussion group that focuses on short stories, poetry, current events, history, and the arts. Free coffee and tea. Bring a light lunch if you wish.  

Tech Talks
Tech Talks will be presented at 6 p.m. Sept 15 and again at 10:30 a.m. Sept 17.
This series of sessions offers advice on what is new in technology and how best to use it.  Your questions are always answered. For this month’s topic call 203-734-1492.

Music and movement

At 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17 the Library hosts Bedtime Music and Movement with Miss Kathi.  Children may wear their pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal to sing and dance under our special stars.

Writers' Round
Writers’ Round meets at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 18.  This is a workshop for authors of all genres - poetry, prose, fiction, scripts, etc. Bring your original works to share with others.  

Teen movie

Teen Movie Night will happen at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 23, featuring Godzilla shown on blu-ray.  Only 20 seats are available; call early to register.
Free refreshments will be served, including pizza.

Read to a canine

The Library welcomes Thor and Bailey our special dog friends your child can read to at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 24.
Each child has a 15-minute session with the canines and a chance to practice their reading skills as a new school year begins. Registration requested.

Evening Book Club

At 6:30 p.m. Sept. 29 the Library inaugurates the Evening Book Club.
Each month a book of fiction, history, biography, or current events will be the focus. 
Books of moderate length and available in paperback format will be selected each month.
The first selection is Two Old Women: An Alaska Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival by Velma Wallis.
Free copies will be available at the library approximately one month before the club’s first meeting.

For information on any of the above programs or to register call 203-734-1492.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Derby Library to host book discussion

      DERBY - The Derby Public Library has scheduled its next Lunchtime Book Discussion for

12:30 p.m Sept. 24. 
       The selected title is The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. This engrossing nonfiction novel is based on real characters and events. 

         Set during Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, it intertwines the true tales of Daniel H. Burnham, the architect behind the fair, and Dr. Henry H. Holmes, the serial killer who lured his victims to their deaths in his elaborately constructed "Murder Castle." 

Larson makes the magic, romance, and mystery of the Gilded Age come alive in this chilling tale.  

Multiple copies of the book are available at the circulation desk.  Participants are asked to bring a sandwich and a friend as they “chat and chew.”   

Dessert and beverages 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.


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

Derby Scouts enjoy cross-country camping trek

They covered more than 4,300 miles

Troop 3 Scouts and Exchange Scouts pose at Horseshoe Bend near Page, Ariz.. / Contributed photo

DERBY -  “Amazing,” “fantastic," and “unbelievable” were some of the comments heard from the Scouts and leaders from Housatonic Council Boy Scout Troop 3 Derby, and exchange Scouts from Derby, England, Peterborough, England and Limerick, Ireland, who recently returned from a three-week cross-country camping adventure.

The crew of 19 flew to Los Angeles and then traveled with the TrekAmerica touring company by vans and trailers back to Derby, covering more than 4,300 miles while visiting many of the natural and national monuments of America.

Highlights included a day in the Pacific Ocean at Manhattan Beach, tour of the UCLA campus, river hiking the narrow canyons at Zion National Park, hiking into the Grand Canyon, staying at the Golden Nugget Casino in Las Vegas, visiting the UFO Museum in Roswell, N.M., and witnessing the exodus of thousands of bats and then exploring Carlsbad Cavern.  
The group experienced a cowboy camp, enjoying horseback riding and steak dinner; they were treated to an open jeep tour of Monument Valley and spent a night in a traditional Hogan, courtesy of the Navajo Nation. While there, the scouts completed a service project of repairing the Hogan by applying mud to the structure.

While in Texas, the group visited the Alamo and the San Antonio Riverwalk, enjoyed Texas barbeque and spent an educational night aboard the Battleship Texas, which like Troop 3, is celebrating its 100^th anniversary. 
The Scouts also swam in San Solomon Springs and participated in an alligator sighting swamp tour before heading to New Orleans, where they visited the historic French Quarter, Preservation Hall and enjoyed a haunted history walk.

Upon reaching Tennessee, the group was thrilled with a day of white water rafting in the Pigeon River. 
Two full days were spent in the nation’s capital, visiting the monuments, the Smithsonian museums and concluded with a Washington Nationals baseball game versus the Pittsburg Pirates, including game ending fireworks. They made a quick stop in Philadelphia for famous cheese steaks, and the Scouts arrived at the Derby Second Congregational Church, where family members were waiting with a warm welcome home.

Troop 3 Derby Scouts who participated include Joe Szewczyk, Justin Patten, Jason Edwards, Matthew Edwards, James Cobaugh, Julian Gilloren, James Chopak, and Adam Sroka. 
Derby, England Scouts included Alex Griffiths and leader Luke Brady. 
Peterborough, England Scouts participating were Sam Holmes and Chris Campbell. 
Limerick, Ireland Scouts included Eoin Stapleton, James Glasson, and Tadhg McInerney. 

Troop 3 leaders were Bill McDonnell, Brian Welch, John Spinetti, and Scoutmaster Randy Ritter, who coordinated the trip.

“Troop 3 organizes high adventure trips regularly as a way to expose the world to our older Scouts while building teamwork and leadership skills," Ritter said. 
"These Scouts had to work together to setup and strike camp, purchase ingredients and cook meals and support each other while being away from home for three weeks.”  
Ritter added, “Having Irish and English Scouts join us on our cross-country adventure enhanced the impact our annual Scout exchange program has in increasing the world brotherhood of Scouting, as many of the scouts become lifelong friends.”   

Troop members plan to visit their Scouting friends in Derby, England in July, 2015 where they will attend the Peak International Encampment, hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.

Boy Scout Troop 3 resumes meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesdays starting Sept. 3 at Second Congregational Church, 136 Elizabeth St.  It is open to all boys at least 11 years of age. 
For more information call 203-732-0343. 

The public is invited to see Scouting in Action at noon Sept. 27 on the Derby Green, for the troop's annual Ed Strang Day for Kids.
Many hands on activities and displays will be available free of charge. Representatives from Cub Scout Pack 3 and Venture Crew 33 will also be on hand to provide information on the adventures of Scouting for ages 7 through 21.

This information was provided by Scoutmaster Randy Ritter of Derby.

Singers set peaceful mood at Master's Table dinner in Ansonia

Derby resident Jerry Rasmussen, second from left, plays guitar and sings gospel music Sunday at the monthly Master's Table community dinner at Christ Episcopal Church in Ansonia. 
Accompanying him on vocals are Joe Evans of Stamford, far left, Clem King of Seymour, and her brother, Ron Robert of Bethany. 

Tomatoes take the cake at Ansonia event

ANSONIA - It doesn't matter if you say to-mayto or to-mahto, residents John and Ann Marie Checkley will invite you to their annual tomato sandwich open house.

On Saturday they welcomed family and friends to a 30th annual tradition: a party featuring their harvest of tomatoes, lots of them.

Derby resident Mary Ann Camilini helpsget the tomatoes ready for slicing.

The Checkleys were happy to show off this nifty gadget, which makes quick work of tomato slicing.

Ready to be placed between slices of toasted bread for sandwiches.

John Checkley, the Checkleys' older son, likes tomatoes and apparently also likes ketchup. His younger brother Joshua, however, said he doesn't care for tomatoes.

One of the centerpieces on the red-covered tables in the Checkleys' backyard.

The family invited Mayor David S. Cassetti, center, to enjoy the tomato tradition. Here he is with, from left, John Checkley, the elder John Checkley, Ann Marie Checkley, and Joshua Checkley.

The Checkleys asked people to bring non-perishable food items to be donated to a local food bank. 


I had a great time at the party. I'm so glad an Ansonia friend called to tell me about it!


Please check out Register photojournalist Peter Hvizdak's photo slideshow of the event. 

Concert in Seymour to feature Flashback

SEYMOUR - The Culture and Arts Commission will end its summer concert series with a block dance Sept. 6.   

The concert will feature the Milford-based band Flashback playing music from the 50s, 60s, and 70s.   

The concert will be held from 7-9 p.m. at the corners of First and Bank Streets in historic downtown in conjunction with Seymour’s First Saturday events.   

Please join us for a great night out. Parking is located on the streets and parking lots around downtown.  Do not park in the First Street plaza lot – your car will be towed by the plaza owners!  Bring your own chairs.  

There will be no rain date or location for this concert. 

For more information contact Kim Osgood, 203-888-7880.

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

Ice challenge at Shelton community benefits ALS

Staff from Wesley Village pose for a photo before getting drenched for the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Pictured from left: Dave Lawlor, Jarred Worthy, Gary Maglio, Endra Newell, Carlene Rhea, Debra Samorajczyk, Mary Ann Milano, Jordan Cohen, Linda McPhail, Pete Belval. / Contributed photo

SHELTON - Staff and residents at Wesley Village gathered together last week to proudly participate in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, throwing buckets of cold, icy water on team members to raise money for a worthy cause.
Beginning the challenge Aug. 19 were staff members from Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center, who then nominated UMH President and CEO Dave Lawlor and Wesley Village Vice President of Operations, Pete Belval, who were both soaked along with other staff within the next 24 hours.

To check out the video, visit the UMH Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/umhcaring.

Wesley Village is located at 580 Long Hill Ave. and includes Crosby Commons Assisted Living Community, Wesley Heights Assisted and Independent Living Community, and Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center.
The campus provides a continuum of relationship-centered care and is owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, a local, not-for-profit organization.

For information about Wesley Village, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or call 203-225-5000.


This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Crisco: DOT representatives to answer questions

HARTFORD - State Sen. Joseph J. Crisco, D-Woodbridge, announced today that representatives from the state Department of Transportation will once again travel to Woodbridge to answer  citizens' questions about the ongoing upgrades to the intersection of Routes 63 and 67.

The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Sept. 15 in the Board Room of Woodbridge Town Hall, 11 Meetinghouse Lane, Woodbridge.

“DOT was here in the spring, now they’re back to answer another round of questions,” Crisco said.
‘I’ve been in regular contact with a group of local citizens who have some ongoing questions about the redesign, and I’d like to get their concerns addressed once and for all.”


This is a press release from Crisco's office.

All-Decades Reunion in Ansonia is Saturday

See you there!

Driver safety class slated at Derby Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library has scheduled an AARP Driver Safety Class from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sept. 23.

Cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. 

Cars have changed and so have traffic rules, driving conditions, and the roads you travel. 

This refresher course is designed for driversage 50 and over to brush up on their driving skills.  No written tests, no road tests, and no information will be given to the Department of Motor Vehicles.   

Participants will learn how to drive more defensively and may save up to 10 percent on their present auto liability insurance. 

Space is limited and registration is required. 

Participants may bring a bag lunch; coffee and dessert will be provided. 

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 Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Fair at club in Shelton to promote health, wellness

Annual event for children slated Sept. 21
SHELTON - The 13th Annual Children’s Health and Safety Fair will take on a family carnival theme from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, One Positive Place.

The event will offer free food, fun, and games along with a variety of health, wellness and safety programs and displays.

Sponsored by the Valley Parish Nurses of Griffin Hospital, The Valley Community Foundation, Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley, Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, and Griffin Faculty Physicians, the fair will feature carnival games, a moon bounce and magic show.

Other activities include health, wellness and safety interactive displays, a car seat and bike helmet clinic, the Child Identification Program (CHIP), fire engines and rescue vehicles, a safety house to teach about safety features in homes, and much more.

Free bike helmets will be available for the first 400 children and there will be free CPR for Friends and Family Training (must call Cathi at 203-732-1337 to register for the CPR training).

The Griffin Hospital Valley Parish Nurse program was established in 1990 and is now one of the largest in the country, with nearly 40 participating churches, more than 125 parish nurses, and 350 additional volunteers who support the nurses and who serve on the health cabinets of the individual churches.

The Boys & Girls Club provides, in a safe environment, programs that inspire, educate, guide, and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens.

Griffin Faculty Physicians Primary Care is a multi-specialty medical group affiliated with Griffin Hospital, offering exceptional, personalized care to residents in the Lower Naugatuck Valley and the surrounding communities at our conveniently located offices in Derby, Oxford, Southbury, Seymour and Shelton.

For more information about the fair, call 203-732-1337.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

The Bernadettes bring soul to Ansonia

Concert energizes crowd at Veterans Park

ANSONIA - Soul, love, and a heaping amount of fun. Those were the ingredients the New Haven-based Bernadettes used Wednesday to create a magical evening.

Kudos to the Ansonia Cultural Commission and member Jimmy Little in particular for getting The Bernadettes on the city's summer concert schedule.

R&B, rock, Motown: I enjoyed everything they played.

I'm sure I'm not the only one looking forward to their return next summer!

Nutrition expert to teach course at Griffin Hospital in Derby

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will offer a free four-week nutrition course beginning Sept. 16.

“Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Nutrition, But Were Afraid to Ask” is a groundbreaking series of fun, informative classes is taught by Samantha Heller, MS, RD, the clinical nutrition coordinator at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital.

A registered dietitian and exercise physiologist, Heller is a nationally-known nutrition expert who regularly appears on television and radio programs such as CBS This Morning, MSNBC, Dr. Oz, Ny1 News, Better Connecticut and more.
She also hosts “Samantha Heller's Health & Nutrition Show” on Sirius XM, and is the author of Get Smart: Samantha Heller's Nutrition Prescription for Boosting Brain Power and Optimizing Total Body Health.

The classes will be held for four consecutive Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sept. 16-Oct. 7 at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital, 350 Seymour Ave.

Participants should plan on attending all four sessions, as the learning is cumulative. The classes cover a variety of nutrition topics, including how to:

·         Reach and maintain a healthy weight

·         Manage Type 2 Diabetes

·         Lower cholesterol

·         Reduce blood pressure

·         Boost stamina and energy

·         Reduce the risk of cancer and other diseases

·         Improve memory and sharpen the mind

Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited. Register at 203-732-1260.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Treasured Time seeks support for Naugatuck family

The Aresta family

Stacey and Mark Aresta of Naugatuck are the perfect fairy tale story.
They met at just 18 years old, fell in love, and have been married for the last 20 years.

 They have three beautiful children, Trevor, 15, Teresa, 13, and Elizabeth, 8 and dreamed of one day being foster parents.

Sadly, last year their fairy tale turned into a nightmare when Stacey was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer.  She has four tumors on her breasts, six tumors in her liver, and is undergoing more tests to determine if the spots on her lungs are scar tissue or additional tumors.
Stacey is undergoing treatment at the Leever Center in Waterbury, and will undergo treatment the rest of her life as the cancer is inoperable.

Treasured Time, Inc. is looking to grant Stacey’s wish this October.  Her dream is to go with her husband and children to the Grand Canyon.
All her life Stacey has wanted to camp there, but due to her condition she has been advised not to by doctors. As a perfect alternative, she wishes to take a tour of the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam. 

If you would like to help Stacey’s dream come true, visit treasuredtime.org or call Suzanne, 203-856-9772. 

This is a press release from Treasured Time, Inc., a Connecticut-based 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to grant the wishes of parents with life threatening illnesses who want to create a lasting memory with their children. 

Learn yoga, discover insects at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center will offer yoga and fitness classes starting at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 4.

Instructor Pamela Mellitz will lead students through stretching and toning, balance and awareness.
She also will demonstrate the importance of just breathing correctly for better physical and mental health in these 90-minute sessions.
Cost is $7 per class.

For information call Mellitz, 203-888-4124.

Nature's Child: Incredible Insects
Join naturalist Wendy at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 5 to discover the critters who live in the park’s beautiful yellow flowers. You’ll be amazed to find how many tiny creatures live on our goldenrod.  

Tuition is $6 per family ($4 for Ansonia residents or current Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. members). Register in advance by calling 203-736-1053.

The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.


This information is taken from the nature center's calendar.

Derby Library to host chess club

DERBY - The Derby Public Library Teen Chess Club invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to meetings from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays in September. 

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. 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 Tony DeLos, young adult/reference librarian, Derby Public Library.