Hamden developer nearly completes Ansonia blight remediation

 Moustapha Diakhate stands next to a Farrel Corp. property on East Main Street in Ansonia in January 2013. Peter Hvizdak — New Haven Register file photo

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA >> The Hamden developer who faced stiff fines for failure to clean up the blighted eyesore he bought in 2013 has nearly completed remediation of the property, just days before a city-imposed deadline.
Moustapha Diakhate of Washington Management Co. LLC. told city officials Thursday he plans to be finished with his remediation plan by the Jan. 31 deadline.
“He said everything will be done by the weekend,” said Economic Development Director Sheila O’Malley. “We would consider an extension due to weather-related issues if he asks, but it appears he may not need one.”

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Diakhate and the city reached an agreement last month that required Diakhate to button up the 10-acre abandoned Farrel property he purchased downtown in January 2013. The blighted eyesore was riddled with graffiti, overgrown brush and broken windows, and city officials feared the property would become home to squatters, as the perimeter wasn’t fenced.

Read more here. 

St. Mary-St. Michael School Honor Roll for second marking period

DERBY >> The St. Mary-St. Michael School Honor Roll for the second marking period is announced by Mrs. Linda Coppola, principal.

Grade 4 High Honors:                                                           Grade 7 High Honors:                
Matthew Capiral                                                                      Elizabeth DeCrisanti                      
Selena Hescock                                                                     Gabriela Soriano
Jenna LaBranche                                                                   Sofia Soriano
Grade 4 Honors:                                                                   Joanna Wypasek
Sibe Doci                                                                               Grade 7 Honors
Emily Foley                                                                              Joshua Celentano                          
Anton Rusu
Jacob Weiler

Grade 5 Honors:                                                            Grade 8 High Honors:
Tennyson Delos                                                                     Emily Lucke
Teresa Joseph                                                                       Igor Poliwoda
Rosa Rizzitelli                                                                        Alexis Pudimat
Max Shuart                                                                             Michael Rizzitelli
Brandon Sibilia                                                                       Alexys Ryan
Brooke Sobolisky                                                                    Emily Tokash
Emilia Wypasek                                                                      Shirley Torres

Grade 6 High Honors:                                                            Grade 8 Honors:
Theresa Kardos                                                                        Genesis Brito
Cassidy McNeil                                                                        Cristina Carloni
Grade 6 Honors:                                                                    Maja Cuprys
Maria Ahmed                                                                          Jan Mazan
Dylan Bellinger                                                                        Makayla Naranjo
Bridget Calderon                                                                     Isabella Tufaro
Nico D’Ambrosio
Isabella Hescock
Aryanna Ryan      
Daria Wakulczyk

'In Love & Chocolate' event to benefit Spooner House, Turtle Shell Fund

Tickets are $40/Couple and $25/Per Person. You can purchase them at:

Liquid Lunch - 6 Research Drive, Shelton
Marks of Design - 500 Howe Avenue, Shelton
Spooner House - 30 Todd Road, Shelton

or Purchase Tickets Online HERE

Current Exhibitors Include:

Bricks & Barley Tavern
Common Bond Market
Courtyard by Marriott
500 Degrees
Focaccia's Cafe & Eatery
Liquid Lunch
Nikki's Candy Boutique
The Pink Cupcake Shack
Rotk'n Chocolates
Royal Bakery
Seasonal Sweets & Catery
Starbucks
Stone Gardens Farm
Taste & See Gourment Cupcakes
Tea With Tracy
Tidmarsh Home Bake Shop
Wildflour Confections

Sponsors: Valley Community Foundation, Charter Arms, The Glass Source Stained Glass Studios, Marks of Design, and STAR 99.9 WEZN radio.

Ansonia pays tribute to late employee

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA >> The city recently paid homage to the late Claude Perry Sr., a longtime public servant who served Ansonia in many capacities for more than three decades.
During a ceremony last week at City Hall, Mayor David Cassetti along with Perry’s widow, Virginia, unveiled a plaque and portrait of Perry that now hangs in the main hallway of the building.
“We are here today to pay tribute to a dedicated public servant, Claude Perry Sr.,” Cassetti said during the event, which was attended by members of Perry’s family, along with his fellow City Hall co-workers. “Claude was a devoted and loving family man and civic minded individual whose priorities were rooted in the community and the residents of the Valley.”

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Perry, the father of eight children, died Sept. 19, 2011, at the age of 68.

Read more here. 

Derby opens new preschool at high school, program to accommodate 54 children

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY >> Preparing children “socially, emotionally and academically” for their educational careers is exactly what a newly expanded preschool program at Derby High School aims to do.
That’s according to Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway, who along with other school officials will unveil the new preschool at 7 p.m. Thursday at DHS, 8 Nutmeg Dr.
Derby used $94,000 in state Alliance District Grant funds to renovate a former art wing at the high school, and transform it into the preschool space.

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Currently, Derby has a small preschool program with 23 children enrolled that is run out of Bradley and Irving schools. The newly expanded program will accommodate 54 children, Conway said, in its first round, and ultimately another 30 seats will be opened up.

Read more here. 

Raymond G. Allen Jr. named Derby’s Citizen of the Year

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY >> At nearly 90 years old and a volunteer firefighter with Hotchkiss Hose Co. No. 1 for more than six decades, resident Raymond G. Allen Jr. was honored Thursday as Derby’s Citizen of the Year.
Allen, who will celebrate his 90th birthday Jan. 25, had no idea when he was asked to attend Thursday’s Board of Aldermen meeting that he’d be the star of the show.
Allen was coaxed to City Hall by his family, who told him his son, Ross, a birding enthusiast, was going to give the aldermen a special talk on birds. The jig was up when Mayor Anita Dugatto rose from her seat in Aldermanic Chambers and presented Allen with the Citizen of the Year plaque, lauding him for his many years of volunteering and dedication to Derby and its residents.

Read more here. 

Ansonia’s ‘smart move’ nets city $10k

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA >> Efforts by both the city and residents to become more ‘green’ and reduce their energy footprint are paying off in a big way.
To that end, officials from United Illuminating presented Mayor David Cassetti this week with a $10,000 Bright Idea grant.
The city signed a pledge last year with U.I. to participate in energy savings projects through the company’s Energize Connecticut’s Home Energy Solutions program.

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Cassetti kicked off the initiative by having an energy audit conducted in his own home. Last March, New England Smart Energy visited Cassetti’s Hilltop home, built in 1985, and conducted various tests to check for energy deficiencies. Cassetti made some simple changes, like switching the traditional light bulbs in his home to energy-efficient LED bulbs to help cut his personal electric bill.

Read more here. 

Wesley Village continues “Sandwiched” Caregiver Education Series for February

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. Let us help! Caregivers are invited to join us at Wesley Village on Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (Snow Date: Wednesday, Feb. 5) for our caregiver education series.

Our topic for this session is entitled: Partnering with Your Parent. Are the challenges of aging placing a strain on your relationship with your aging parent or loved one? Hear from Jim Stinson, Director of Spiritual Life for United Methodist Homes, and learn some smarter ways to work through conflict and differences.

To RSVP, contact us at 203-925-4952 or at http://www.wesleyvillage-ct.org/. The program will be held at Crosby Commons Assisted Living Community on the Wesley Village Campus at 580 Long Hill Ave. in Shelton. A light supper will be served. This is a monthly series. Be sure to “Save the Date” for our other upcoming programs, happening on the first Wednesday of the month.

This is a press release from Mary Ann Bradshaw, development coordinator.

Shelton High School partners with Valley Community Foundation

Shelton High School and the Valley Community Foundation announced a new partnership in which the management of all scholarship and award funds will be entrusted to the Foundation. The purpose of this partnership is to sustain and build a substantial scholarship and recognition program benefiting the students of Shelton High School in acknowledgement of their hard work and accomplishments as they move on to pursue higher education.

Sharon Closius, VCF President,
and Beth A. Smith, Shelton High School Headmaster

Beth A. Smith, headmaster of Shelton High School, said, “This decision was made after very careful consideration and with the full support of the superintendent of schools and the Shelton Board of Education. Shelton High School is a learning community with high academic and behavioral expectations. We believe it is important to celebrate student achievement and to recognize those students who have met our standards. It is my firm belief that this move will achieve my goal of sustainability for our awards programs, which will continue to benefit the students of Shelton High School.”

School leaders routinely communicate to students the importance of community service and of giving back to their community. “The donors who have continuously supported the student recognition programs are a true testament to the importance of not only caring for our students but the future generation as well,” Smith said.

Smith added, “The Valley Community Foundation’s consistent average return will maximize the value of our scholarship and award donations. Instead of sitting in a savings account, our funds will now be professionally managed. Donors will have a choice to set up a permanent award or one that will be spent down over time. I want to emphasize that the criteria and selection process will not change. The Shelton High School staff will continue to coordinate the selection committees and recipient notification.”

Sharon Closius, Valley Community Foundation president and CEO, said, “We are honored to partner with Shelton High School to ensure the scholarship and award funds remain a viable philanthropic vehicle benefitting Shelton students for years to come and to expand the opportunities to grow the pool. I am especially pleased that the Valley Community Foundation has the ability to assist people who want to give back to the community and benefit Shelton students.”

An added benefit of this partnership is the Foundation’s capacity to accept different forms of assets to grow existing and new funds for the high school. With VCF’s relationship with The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, gifts of securities, real estate and insurance policies can now be accepted. VCF can assist in estate planning ideas such as designating a scholarship or award as the beneficiary of a retirement plan, life insurance and/or bank accounts. Life income gifts such as charitable gift annuities and charitable remainder trusts are also options to help build the program.

This partnership with VCF is a major step of collective public philanthropy to support the quality of Shelton’s education programs. Superintendent Freeman Burr envisions a collection of philanthropic funds that will be dedicated to impacting the quality of education in Shelton. The funds provide financial support broken down into four pillars of investment: student award and scholarships; teacher creativity, innovation and resources; early childhood; quality time (such as before and after school programs, summer programs, etc.). This framework will allow interested members of the community to fund specific areas that they are passionate about and want to support.

If you would like to support Shelton High School, please call VCF at 203-751-9162.

This is a press release from Valley Community Foundation.

February events at Derby Neck Library

Join us at the Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave., for the following events. For more information, call the library at 203-734-1492.

Thurs. Feb. 5 at 5:30 p.m.: Dinner and a Movie. This is a free event for people 18 years of age and older. Our movie presentation this month is “John Wick” shown in blu-ray.  Refreshments will be served as well as a free dinner during intermission. Come and bring friends to a fun night out.

On Wed., Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m.: Bedtime Music and Movement with Miss Kathi. Bring a favorite stuffed animal and wear your jammies, if you wish, as we will sing and dance under our indoor stars.
On Mon., Feb. 16 at 12:30 p.m.: Women’s Forum, a discussion group that focuses on poetry, short stories, memoirs, and more. Bring a light lunch. We serve free coffee and tea. This month we will be discussing two short stories —“Father and I” by Par Lagerkvist and “The Kingdom of Gordon” by J. Carol Goodman. Copies of the stories are available at the library.

On Mon., Feb 16 at 6 p.m. and again on Wed., Feb 18 at 10:30 p.m.: Tech Talks, a series of presentations explaining what is new in technology and how to best use it in your life. Please bring your questions for our staff. For this month’s topic, please call the library at 203-734-1492.

On Tues., Feb 17 at 5:30 p.m.: Teen Movie Night. This month’s feature film is “Annabelle,”  a horror tale. Seating is limited and registration is required in order to attend. Free refreshments and a pizza dinner will be served. To register, stop by the library or call us at 203-734-1492.

On Thurs., Feb. 19 at 6:30 p.m.: Writers’ Round, a workshop for authors of all genres—fiction, poetry, non-fiction, scripts, etc. Bring your original works to share with others and learn more about your craft.

On Mon., Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m.: Evening Book Club. This discussion group meets in our comfortable Reading Room and focuses on books of various types—including some non-fiction and memoirs. This month’s selection is “Facts of Life” by Maureen Howard—a memoir of growing up in Bridgeport. Copies of the book are available for check-out at the library.

Valley Weight Loss Challenge launches Saturday in Ansonia

ANSONIA >> A program to find the area’s biggest loser, and help all participants lose pounds, launches with a free weight loss seminar at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24 at River Walk Cross Training, 1 Chestnut St.

Attendees can sign up for the two-month Valley Weight Loss Challenge, which begins Jan. 31. Signup costs $99.99. That fee covers supervision by certified trainers, a beginner membership for the period, two workouts a week, and two 30-minute personal training sessions. The contest fee also includes a discount on unlimited class membership and 25 percent off personal training packages.

A cash prize will be awarded to the contestant who loses the biggest percentage of their starting body weight by the end of the contest.

Participants can sign up at Riverwalkcrosstraining@gmail.com. The facility’s website is at Riverwalkcrosstraining.com.

Riverwalk Cross Training opened July 19 in Building 4 at 1 Chestnut St, across from Rite Aid in the Big Y plaza. The co-owners are two experienced fitness trainers, Jonathan Gonzalez and Bobby Calabrese. Both are trainers certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Gonzalez is also certified as an instructor by Body Power Systems, and Beach Body. Calabrese is also certified by the International Sports Sciences Association, and Renegade Training.

Morning and evening classes at Riverwalk Cross Training include cross-training, boot camps, and training with TRX and kettlebells.  

Assumption School Open House set for Jan. 29 in Ansonia

PHOTO: Spector Furniture in Ansonia celebrates 125th anniversary

Pictured in photo from left to right: Ansonia Mayor David Cassetti; Tim Phelan, president of Connecticut Retail Merchants Association; Howard Spector; state Sen. Joe Crisco; Ken Spector; Ansonia Economic Development Director Sheila O'Malley; Ben Florsheim, representative for U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy; and Bill Purcell, Valley Chamber of Commerce president. Spector Furniture celebrated its 125th anniversary in Ansonia on Sunday, Jan. 18.

Ansonia mom seeks to have Congenital Heart Defect Awareness week recognized nationally

Sisters Ava and Isabella Corbesato were born with a severe congenital heart defect, known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, or HLHS. Photo courtesy of AJ Photography

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA >> Sisters Isabella and Ava Corbesato are active little toddlers who love wearing tutus, know they were born with “special hearts” and know the scars they bear on their tiny chests as “boo boos” from the surgeries they’ve endured since birth.
Isabella, 3, and Ava, 2, both were born with a severe congenital heart defect, known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, or HLHS. That means the heart’s left side, including the aorta, aortic valve, left ventricle and mitral valve, are underdeveloped, according to the American Heart Association.
There is no known cause for HLHS, and the defect isn’t correctable, but children can be treated through a minimum of three open heart surgeries, medication and even heart transplantations to help prolong their lives.

Read more here. 

Disabled Seymour resident petitions for post office access

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR >> Resident Joseph A. Luciano is petitioning the U.S. Postal Service to provide “reasonable access” to the elderly and disabled at the post office downtown.
Luciano said the daunting “mountain” of a staircase leading to the public entrance has for too long prevented seniors and the handicapped from gaining access to the facility at 91 Main St. Further, around the back there’s a loading dock ramp for postal employees’ use, which previously enabled Luciano to conduct business, but has been closed to the public, with postal officials deeming the area “dangerous” for customers.
“Seymour’s post office has failed to provide reasonable access and accommodation to elderly and disabled unable to climb steps at its public entrance,” Luciano said. “It defiantly refuses to provide an access route to the ramp in the rear.”

Read more here. 

Seymour school board approves $32.7 million for 2015-16 year

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR >> The Board of Education recently approved a $32.7 million budget for the 2015-16 school year.
The budget represents an increase of $1 million, or 3.2 percent, over the current $31.7 million budget. The board unanimously approved the budget at a meeting Jan. 8, which now heads to the town’s Board of Finance for a review and vote. Voters will cast ballots on a town and school budget during a referendum later this spring.

Read more here. 

Further testing to begin at O’Sullivan’s Island in Derby

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY >> The environmental firm that tested suspected contaminated soil on O’Sullivan’s Island will begin a new round of sampling, but this time on the groundwater to check for possible contamination, prompting the site to remain closed well into spring.
That’s according to Environmental Planner Arthur Bogen, who, along with Rick Dunne, executive director of the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments, and attorney Gary O’Connor, gave the Board of Aldermen and the O’Sullivan’s Island Advisory Committee an update Thursday of what’s been happening with investigation of the site over the past several months.

Read more here. 

Derby fourth-graders’ book drive to benefit Vietnam veterans

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
DERBY >> Students at Irving School Wednesday launched a communitywide effort to benefit Vietnam veterans and their families as a way to show respect and embrace a generation of folks who for years felt abandoned by their country.
Fourth-graders in the school’s reading enrichment program kicked off a book drive in the school gym, which runs through Jan. 28.
Teacher Edwin Croft said students came up with the idea to involve the entire community and are asking the public to donate new or “gently used” books at various locations throughout Derby, which will benefit Vietnam Veterans of America, or VVA.

Read more here. 

Cassetti to seek another term as Ansonia mayor

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA >> Mayor David Cassetti announced plans this week to seek re-election, simply because “I love my job.”
Cassetti on Monday stood before a small crowd of fellow Valley officials, including Seymour First Selectman Kurt Miller, Shelton Mayor Mark A. Lauretti and Oxford First Selectman George Temple, and his family and friends, to make his intentions known.
“It has been an absolute honor to serve as mayor of Ansonia for the past year,” Cassetti said. “I have been given the opportunity to make our city a better place, and I strive to make the most of it. The day-to-day details may get complicated, but my charge is very clear: to improve the quality of life for every person in this great city.

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“That’s the job I have, and let me say this: I love my job.”

Read more here. 

All in for Anna fundraiser in Ansonia

Too Blue - Bluegrass Swing Band at All-American Valley General Store in Seymour Saturday

SEYMOUR >> The All-American Valley General Store Presents:

Too Blue - Bluegrass Swing Band with special appearance by ace fiddler Rob Hecht
Saturday,  Jan. 17 from 7-9 p.m. 
Tickets $10 / Reservation 203-828-6442 
Cafe Menu available. Limited Seating.
16 Bank Street & Columbus, Seymour, CT.
redcloverblossom.com

To quote Bill Monroe, ‘This is powerful music!’ With Too Blue, the total is much more than the sum of the parts, and the part...s are mighty fine: swing-grass, 12 tracks with 9 original tunes, hot pickin’ & sweet singin’.” -Barry Mitterhoff, Mandolinist, Jorma Kaukonen

“A solid overall effort – catchy melodies, close harmonies and some first-rate picking… Each song is skillfully rendered, expertly produced and, individually, easy on the ears.” -David Morris, BluegrassToday.com

“Their eclectic, well-arranged music is really anything but “too blue” because they convey many moods, and abundant amounts of soul and emotion…I’d highly recommend you get on-board their train to check out their tasty swing-grass music.” -Joe Ross, California Bluegrass Assoc.

“Smooth harmonies, adventurous musicianship, and eclectic material… Ah, music for grown-ups.” -Eric Gibson, The Gibson Brothers (IBMA 2011 award winners)

“Too Blue is a fantastic band with great singing, great picking and large dollops of creativity. The album features beautifully clean production values and the sound is always fresh. I was impressed. I think you will be too.” -Tony Trischka, Grammy nominated banjo legend

“Too Blue does it all – bluegrass, swing, originals, country covers, and more, and they do it with instrumental virtuosity, excellent singing, and great good humor. Too Blue is Too Good!” -Chris Teskey, Senior Music Producer, WAMU-FM

Wesley Village to Host Open House for New Memory Support Community

SHELTON >> Wesley Village will host an Open House from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25 to introduce “Lifestyle Transitions,” a new memory care neighborhood located in the newly renovated Northwest Wing of their Wesley Heights community.

“Lifestyle Transitions at Wesley Heights” will offer specialized assisted living in a secure, supportive environment for those living with memory loss. This new program is designed to support residents with cognitive impairment by engaging them in life and activities within the larger Wesley Heights community and providing encouragement, friendship and a feeling of security. It will also focus on developing daily routines for successfully managing individualized physical, social and cognitive challenges.

The “Lifestyle Transitions” program space encompasses existing apartments and newly renovated gathering areas, including a library, family-style kitchen, living room area, laundry nook and enclosed outdoor courtyard. Safe and quiet space for reading, relaxation, and dining, and other stimulating activities such as baking, gardening, exercise, art classes, musical entertainment will be available. Colors, textures, lighting, and furniture was chosen with the help of a dementia consultant in order to organize these therapeutic spaces in a way that best meets resident needs.

Unique to Wesley Village, “Lifestyle Transitions” offers a mission-based, relationship-centered approach to care, as well as: affordable pricing, a wander-management system, 24-hour staffing with caregivers trained by the Alzheimer’s Association, on-site physician services, engaging activities, a variety of apartment styles for individuals or couples, education and support services for residents and families, and a specialized design to maximize independence. Deposits are now being accepted for apartments in this new neighborhood. For more information or to RSVP for the Open House, please contact Lisa Kelleher at 203-944-6099.

Wesley Village is located at 580 Long Hill Ave. in Shelton and is owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization. The campus offers assisted and independent living, skilled nursing, short-term rehab and outpatient therapy and fitness services. To learn more, visit http://www.wesleyvillage-ct.org/.

Derby Boy Scout Troop 3 selling subs to raise money for trip to Derby, England

DERBY >> Boy Scout Troop 3 is accepting orders for footlong and 5-foot, double-wide party sub sandwiches as part of their annual Super Bowl Sub Sale fundraiser. The subs are made to order and home delivered anywhere in the Lower Naugatuck Valley on Feb. 1. All orders must be received by Jan. 28.

Footlong subs are $7 each and the 5-foot, double-wide party subs are $65. Proceeds from the sale will help the scouts attend Edmund Strang Scout Reservation summer camp and a trip to an international encampment in Derby, England.

For more information, visit www.troop3derby.org, or to place an order call 203-732-0343.

Shelton's Downtown Handmade Market continues on first Saturdays

SHELTON >> Downtown Handmade Market, a 5-date vendor festival hosted by Celebrate Shelton was held at the Conti Building on 415 Howe Ave. The market kicked off on Black Friday with an overwhelming attendance of over 225 shoppers, continued on Small Business Saturday and the following three Saturdays through December. Over 1,500 people attended throughout the five dates and the market hosted over 60 handmade artisans.

“When we shop local, we are supporting and building opportunities for local entrepreneurs and business owners, strengthening our local economy by creating a more self-reliant and durable community, and empowering citizens to guide the development of our immediate surroundings,” said the Celebrate Shelton duo, Skrtic and Heriot-Mikula, in a release.

Downtown Handmade Market will continue on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the first Saturday of each month to follow. Artisans include: Grateful Pawz, Lisas soaps naked and natural LLC, The Liquid Lunch, The Olive Oil Factory, Laurie Lynne's Jewelry & Kids Parties!, Stone Gardens Farm, Bead Dangle Design, Look and Sea, Benny The Baker, Bel Mare Creations, LLC, Electric Bones, Nikki's Candy Boutique, Greystone Bookworks, Origami Owl Living Lockets, BringtheHoopla LLC, Periodic Tableware, and The Glass Source Stained Glass Studio.

Learn more about Celebrate Shelton at www.celebrateshelton.com, follow on Facebook (www.facebook.com/celebrateshelton) and Instagram. For any questions, please email celebrateshelton@gmail.com or call 203-924-4368.

Rep. Theresa Conroy promotes family-to-family mental health educational program

Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, Beacon Falls, Derby, urged constituents who care for family members with mental illness to consider attending the upcoming 12-week program by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Naugatuck beginning Feb. 5.

NAMI’s Family-To-Family Educational Program is a program for loved ones, family and friends of individuals who have a mental illness. This course is taught by trained volunteers. All instruction and course materials are free to class participants.

The World Health Organization predicts that by 2020, mental illness will be the second leading cause of disability worldwide. In the United States, one in four adults experiences a diagnosable mental disorder in any given year and one child in 10 has a serious mental or emotional disorder.

“Family members who care for a loved one need support and guidance,” Conroy said. “NAMI’s Family-To-Family Educational Program can help provide caregivers with the tools they need.”

Class curriculum includes:
Current information about mental illnesses
Up-to-date information about medications, side effects and strategies for medication adherence
Special workshops for problem solving, listening and communication skills
Strategies for handling crises and relapse
Caregiver coping skills for stress and emotional overload
Guidance to locate supports and services in the community
Information on advocacy initiatives designed to improve and expand services

For more information, or to register, call Terrilynn Krampetz at 203-881-2707.

The above information was provided in a press release from Todd Murphy, CT House Democrats.

Teen Chess Club, YA Wednesdays at Derby Public Library

Teen Chess Club
The Derby Public Library Teen Chess Club invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to meetings, Mondays, February 2, 9, and 23 from 6:30 p.m. to 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.

YA Wednesdays
The Derby Public Library hosts YA Wednesdays every month from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. All young adults ages 12 to 17 are invited to join the fun each Wednesday in February as Nintendo Wii, board games and Legos will be available. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is requested.

The above information was provided by Young Adult/Reference Librarian Tony DeLos. For more information stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

Cupcake Decorating Session, Sports Talk Series at Derby Public Library

Hands-On Cupcake Decorating Session
The Derby Public Library has scheduled a Hands-On Cupcake Decorating Session on Monday, Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Maria Bruscino Sanchez, owner of Sweet Maria’s in Waterbury, will demonstrate decorating techniques. Then each participant will get two cupcakes to decorate and take home. Cupcakes, frosting and toppings will be provided. This class is for ages 18 and over. Registration is required.

Hot Stove Roundup Session of Sports Talk Series
The Derby Public Library has scheduled a Hot Stove Roundup session of its popular Sports Talk series on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. Rich Marazzi, who has authored six sports books, is a Major League rules consultant, former high school and college umpire, and host of the radio talk show, Inside Baseball for 17 years, has been the leader of the Derby Public Library’s Silver Sluggers for the past nine years. Trades, signings and rumors of the Major League Baseball’s off season will be discussed. As always, new members of all ages are welcome. The 10th season of the weekly Sports Talk sessions will begin in April.

The above information was provided by Library Director Cathy Williams. For more information, stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org. 

Bowl-2-Benefit event, helping fight domestic violence, set for March 14 in Milford

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

It’s time to once again bowl a strike against domestic violence.
The 27th annual Bowl-2-Benefit will take place March 14 at AMF Lanes, 1717 Boston Post Road, Milford. Proceeds from the event go to the Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services, or UCDVS, a program of BHcare, based at 435 E. Main St. in Ansonia.
The Umbrella Center provides services to more than 7,000 victims of domestic violence and their children each year throughout the Greater New Haven, Greater Naugatuck Valley and Shoreline communities. Services include free emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis services, counseling, court advocacy and support.

Read more here. 

New eatery to move into Klarides Village in Seymour

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

SEYMOUR >> The former CVS Pharmacy in Klarides Village, which has remained vacant for the last four years, is getting a new tenant.
A 92-seat restaurant and pub called American Pie and Pub — offering lunch and dinner, along with live bands — is slated to open in a 4,300-square-foot space, which CVS partially occupied before building a new, larger pharmacy in 2011 on West Street.
Economic Development Director Fred A. Messore said once the new restaurant opens up, there will still be about 2,400 square feet of space next door for lease. Messore, an agent with Colonial Properties, and associate Bill Weirsman, executed the property lease.

Read more here. 

Annual Monkey Love drive in Shelton returns with a twist

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

SHELTON >> There’s some monkey business going on at a popular downtown Shelton salon these days.
And Jennifer Sneider, owner of J-Cuts, located at 505 Howe Ave., is encouraging people to continue monkeying around as she kicks off the 9th annual ‘Monkey Love’ drive. Sneider is again asking the public to donate stuffed monkeys for Valentine’s Day.
The annual community event benefits children in need in the Valley, Milford and surrounding communities.

Read more here. 

Enrollment for 2014-2015 school year at St. Mary-St. Michael School begins Jan. 21

DERBY >> St. Mary-St. Michael School, 14 Seymour Ave., Derby,  will begin to enroll students for the 2014-2015 school year beginning Jan. 21.

In order to be eligible for the full day kindergarten, children must be 5 years old by Dec. 31, 2014. The school offers a Pre-k Program for 3 and 4 year old children which may be full time or part time. All are invited to an OPEN HOUSE on Sunday, Jan. 26 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

St. Mary- St. Michael School offers the following:
• Full Day Kindergarten                              
• Before and After School Program
• Prek for 3 and 4 year old children
• Interactive Whiteboard Technology
• Technology Instruction
• iPad Learning
• Drama Club
• Basketball, Soccer
• Spanish (K - 8)
• Band
• After School Art Enrichment
• Accredited by NEASC
• Catholic Identity
• Monthly Community Service Projects

Ansonia opens armory for walkers, indoor exercising

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA >> Residents hoping to stick to their New Year’s resolutions by exercising more can make tracks to the Ansonia Armory beginning Monday.
Mayor David Cassetti announced that the Armory doors will be open to walkers and anyone wanting to exercise indoors during the cold winter months.
“Many residents took advantage of this opportunity last year when inclement weather prohibited outdoor exercise,” Cassetti said. “I wanted to be sure to offer this alternative to Ansonia residents again this year. It’s a great way to exercise during the winter months and a good opportunity to socialize with your friends and neighbors.”

Read more here. 

Derby Public Library announces January programs

Just for Women
Just for Women meets on the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. These informal sessions now include the reading of quotes reflecting life situations relevant to women. A wide variety of topics are covered. Women of all ages are invited to share their thoughts as they feel comfortable on Monday, Feb. 3 at 6:30 p.m. In today’s world, women are under more pressure than ever. Take some time to do something for yourself and connect with other women.  Valley resident and licensed professional counselor, Joan Joyce, will facilitate. Registration is requested but walk-ins are also welcome.

Wednesday Movie Matinees (ages 18 and over)
Newly released DVDs will be shown every Wednesday at 1 p.m. Light snacks will be provided. Registration is requested. For a list of featured films, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call 203-736-1482.  

Local History Information Sessions – Presidents’ Visits to Derby
The Derby Public Library has changed the format of its weekly Local History Information Sessions on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.  Now, along with offering research assistance, the library’s Local History Coordinator will also have information available on monthly highlighted  local history topics. February’s topic will cover Presidents’ Visits to Derby.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 also be available for research on topics such as genealogy, prominent local figures, major area events, and more.

Recycle, Repurpose, Reuse Craft Class
The Derby Public Library has scheduled another Recycle, Repurpose, and Reuse Craft Class on Monday, Jan. 26 at 6:30 p.m.  Ansonia Animal Control Officer, Jeanie Roslonowski, returns to the library to show participants, ages eighteen and over, what they can do with their old calendars. The class will also include information on conservation and animal issues. Registration is required.

Lunchtime Book Discussion – Me Before You by JoJo Moyes
The Derby Public Library has scheduled its next Lunchtime Book Discussion for Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 12:30 p.m. The selected title is the New York Times bestselling novel, You Before Me by JoJo Moyes. Louisa Clark is leading an ordinary life in her tiny village until she takes a badly needed job working with Will Traynor, who is wheelchair bound after a motorcycle accident. This moving modern day love story is about how life brings together two people who couldn’t have less in common and how they try to help each other.  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.

The information above was provided by Library Director Cathy Williams.  For more information, stop by the library at 313 Elizabeth St. or call  203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org. 

Bowlers and sponsors needed to “Bowl a Strike” against domestic violence

ANSONIA >> The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services, a program of BHcare, is looking for bowlers and sponsors to participate in the 27th Annual Bowl-2-Benefit being held Saturday, March 14, at AMF Lanes in Milford.

All proceeds benefit UCDVS which provides services to over 7,000 victims of domestic violence and their children each year throughout the Greater New Haven, Greater Naugatuck Valley and Shoreline communities. UCDVS provides free emergency safe shelter, 24-hour crisis services, counseling, court advocacy, support and other crucial services.

The Bowl-2-Benefit, one of the largest fundraising events of its kind in the state, attracts over 1,500 community members. Bowlers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate in teams of 4-6, in one of five bowling sessions scheduled for 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Bowlers pay a minimal $5 registration fee and are asked to collect pledges to support their efforts. Each bowler will receive 90 minutes of bowling, an event T-shirt, shoe rental, soft drink, and a chance to win prizes. The event is ideal for clubs, schools, organizations, corporations and families.

The Bowl-2-Benefit offers sponsorship opportunities for all budgets, with levels starting at just $75. Sponsors reap the benefit of exposure to the more than 1,500 participants as well as additional exposure online. T-shirt sponsors receive continued exposure with their logo printed on the event tee that is distributed to all bowlers. T-shirt level sponsorships start at just $500.

Decreases in state and federal funding coupled with increases in demand for services make fundraising events such as the Bowl-2-Benefit critical to sustaining services for those at risk and in need.  Last year, the Bowl-2-Benefit raised over $93,000. Event organizers hope to exceed that amount this year and attract an even larger bowling crowd.

The 27th Annual Bowl-2-Benefit is being sponsored by the Bassett Family Fund and media partners include WFSB, WPLR 99.1-FM and Star 99.9-FM.  Anyone interested in receiving more information about, or participating in the Bowl-2-Benefit, should call Debbie Soulsby at 203-736-2601, ext. 1321 or visit http://www.bhcare.org/.  Deadline for bowler registration is March 2.

BHcare is a regional community provider of behavioral health, addiction prevention, and domestic violence services for the Lower Naugatuck Valley, Greater New Haven and Shoreline communities. For more information, visit www.bhcare.org.

Parks applications available in Seymour

SEYMOUR >> Applications are now available for any groups wishing to use park facilities in Seymour in 2015.

Applications may be picked up at the town clerk’s office at town hall or via the Town of Seymour website: seymourct.org.

Completed applications should be returned to the Selectman’s Office at town hall or sent to Parks Commission secretary Robert Lang, 27 Wood St., Seymour.

Deadline for returns is Feb. 23.

Derby Building & Zoning Office hours

DERBY >> The Building & Zoning Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., effective Jan. 5, according to Town/City Clerk Marc J. Garofalo.
The office can be reached at 203-736-1481.
The office of the Mayor can be reached at 203-736-1450.

Saga of the Four Chaplains Memorial Service in Ansonia

ANSONIA >> The saga of the Four Chaplains Memorial Service is planned for Tuesday, Feb. 3 at the 1st Congregational Church, 44 S. Cliff St.

Emil Senger Post 10, American Legion, will present the service, which honors the courageous actions of those four men of God who sacrificed their lives aboard the USAT Dorchester on that fateful night of Feb. 3, 1943. The men, without regard for themselves, gave away their own life jackets to save others on deck that frigid winter night.
   
Light refreshments will be served in the church hall.

For more information, contact Post 10 Commander Mike Kearney at 203-888-7813.

Crews douse fire at Shelton home

SHELTON >> The new year had just started, but local fire crews were ready to go when flames broke out in the attic of a city home.
Firefighters responded to the home on Cedar Hill Road at 12:17 a.m. Thursday and found flames and smoke showing from both sides of the attic, according to a post on the Echo Hose Hook & Ladder Co. 1 Facebook page.

Read more and see photos here.