Calling All Vendors: 2 for 1 Special in Ansonia

Shop Downtown Seymour's Annual Sidewalk Sale

SEYMOUR - The Shops Downtown will be having their annual Sidewalk Sale in conjunction with the First Saturday Celebration from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. August 5. Don't miss this month!! Merchants will be offering refreshments and bargains!! Lizzie's Corner is hosting a Mini Fleamarket on the corner of Bank St. and Wakeley St., too! Start your day downtown with breakfast or come later for lunch or dinner. Cultural Arts is hosting a Concert at 6pm. The Strand will be showing a classic movie at 7pm. There are lots of activities for the whole family. Thanks for supporting the local shops!!

(This is a press release from Lizzie's Corner)

Free Breakfast for All

Griffin Hospital Recognized by New England Donor Services

From left: Sharon Bartley and Angelo Bernardo, of New England Donor Services, present Griffin Hospital VP Patient Care Services Barbara Stumpo and Inpatient Services Administrator Kelly Egan with the WPFL Silver Award.

 

DERBY - Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Derby, recently received the Health and Human Services Work Place for Life (WPFL) Silver Recognition Award from New England Donor Services for raising awareness about organ donation.

 

The WPFL Hospital Campaign encourages hospitals to coordinate donor awareness and registry enrollment activities with their staff, patients and community members. The goals of the campaign are to increase organ and tissue donation awareness in the surrounding community, cultivate a hospital culture that incorporates educating and registering potential donors as part of their standard mission, and provide online organ and tissue donor registration opportunities.

 

Last year, Griffin Hospital assisted with four organ donations that resulted in life-saving organ transplants for 12 people.

 

Partners in the WPFL campaign are committed to building awareness of the critical need for organ, eye, and tissue donation registration. According to New England Donor Services, there are more than 117,090 people in the U.S. and 1,343 in the state on the waiting list for a life-saving organ transplants. One donor has the potential of saving up to nine lives through organ donation and can enhance the lives of 50 people through tissue donation.

 

For more information about organ donation, visit donatelife.net.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Gentile Applauds Approval of $1.2 Billion State Employee Concession Plan

State Representative Linda Gentile (Derby, Ansonia) applauds the House approval of a $1.2 billion state employee concession plan that will enact several significant structural changes and save $24 billion over the life of the agreement.

 

This is an historic agreement that prioritizes structural, verifiable reductions to long-term pension and benefit costs, while also achieving significant savings in the coming biennium. This groundbreaking agreement substantially reduces the unfunded liability for both the state employee retirement system and our retiree health benefits trust fund.

 

Under this labor deal, the State Employee Bargaining Agent Coalition has agreed to zero wage increases for three years, higher health co-pays and premiums, and three unpaid furlough days in 2017-18.

 

“This labor agreement is the first step toward solving our budget deficit as it adopts a spending plan that generates new revenue, restructures our pension system into the future, while respecting the promises made in the past, and takes advantage of our demographic reality.” Rep. Gentile said. “This deal will put Connecticut on the path to financial sustainability, produce immediate savings in healthcare and enact several significant structural changes by gradually shifting costs onto employees and retirees into the future.”

 

Other structural changes include overtime capped at 60 percent, health insurance redesign, pension reforms, increased co-pays, premium cost sharing and COLA reforms.

 

Additionally, the plan will require all employees to pay 2 percent more into their pension over biennium and establish a new tier IV of employees going forward that will have a defined benefit and contribution plan.

 

In regards to savings, this agreement:

• Saves taxpayers approximately $710 million in Fiscal Year 2018 and $850 million in Fiscal Year 2019,

• Savings grows to $24 billion over the next 20 years,
• Turns a $20.7 billion unfunded liability into a $1.5 billion surplus over 30 year

(This is a press release from Gentile's office)

Golf Event to Help Local Family

Treasured Time, Inc. is hosting its inaugural “Driving for Memories” Golf Outing to help a Stratford family make lasting memories.

 

The Stanton Family will be the featured family and “Gift of Moments” recipients for the event. Tim Stanton, 46, was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in February 2017. At the time of his diagnosis, it had spread to his liver and lymph nodes. Stanton had a 10 cm mass from surgically removed his colon in March, along with 10 inches of his colon and 17 of 25 lymph nodes. At the time of his diagnosis in February, the tumor mass on his colon was measuring at 6 cm, indicating this is a fast growing cancer.

 

Stanton started chemo in April. He had the choice to start with a more basic chemo but opted to go for a more aggressive form of treatment. He had four rounds on this aggressive chemo and unfortunately his scans showed negative results. There were no improvements to his colon or his liver metastases. If the next set of scans do not show favorable results, he will begin exploring clinical trials that may help to slow down the progression of the cancer.

 

Stanton has three children Alanna, age 24, and twin boys Blake and Lucas, age 6. His eldest daughter Alanna is a huge support, taking him to doctor’s appointments and helping with her brothers and chores around the house. Stanton’s wife, Missy, can’t take much time off since she just started a new job.

 

Stanton and his family spend much of their time creating memories together. Stanton would love the opportunity to take his family to Disney World and explore the magic it has to offer before he is unable to.

 

Driving For Memories will be Wed., Sept. 13 at Whitney Farms Golf Course in Monroe. This is a rain or shine event with a shotgun start at noon. The cost is $125 per person and includes a dinner reception and auction after golf. Tickets for just the dinner reception and auction are $50 per person.

 

To register, visit treasuredtime.org. Registrations will be on a first-come, first serve basis.
 

Treasured Time, Inc. is a CT 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.  With your help, Treasured Time, Inc. can provide families with the “Gift of Moments.” To see how you can help us make a difference, visit treasuredtime.org.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Griffin Hospital Offers Ongoing Summer Bereavement Support Groups

DERBY - Griffin Hospital is offering ongoing support groups this summer for anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one.

 

These groups are assisted by caregivers in Griffin’s Department of Spiritual Care and Education and provide grief education and support to ease the pain of loss as well as encouraging healing and growth. There will be groups meeting on Mondays from 4-5:30 p.m. and Wednesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. at the hospital, 130 Division St., Derby.

 

Due to limited capacity, pre-registration is required.

 

To learn more or to register, contact Heather Billingham at 203-732-1132 or hbillingham@griffinhealth.org or Janice Lautier at 203-732-1100 or jlautier@griffinhealth.org.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

 

Shelton Woman Battling Cancer to Swim Across the Sound

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Shelton Resident Kim Adler Will SWIM Across the Sound While Battling Cancer BRIDGEPORT, Connecticut - July 19, 2017. On August 5, 2017, Shelton resident Kim Adler and her team will join approximately 200 swimmers, accompanied by a fleet of 100 boats, and take turns swimming 15.5 miles from Port Jefferson, New York, across Long Island Sound to Captain's Cove Seaport in Bridgeport. All are participating in the St. Vincent's 30th Anniversary SWIM Across the Sound marathon to raise money for cancer patients. Adler -a Clinical Nurse Educator, Perioperative Services, at St. Vincent's Medical Center - is a member of the "Sink or Swim" six-person relay team. The money they raise from pledges goes to St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound, which helps cancer patients and their family deal with the non-medical challenges that cancer brings and that insurance does not cover.   Adler's own battle with cancer began in 2011, when the then 47-year old was diagnosed with stage 3B colon cancer. Her treatment required a colon resection followed by six months of chemotherapy. Around July 2012, Adler found out that the cancer had metastasized to her liver and underwent a liver resection and four more months of chemotherapy. Throughout the following year, she faced more medical procedures at St. Vincent's Medical Center. "Throughout my fight with cancer, during the radiation treatments, and working through my chemotherapy, I realized that working at St. Vincent's has been such a blessing," said Adler. "Not only did they work around my schedule when I had to have the treatments done, but everyone was very supportive and it showed me how family oriented the St. Vincent's environment truly is."    After Kim's initial diagnosis, she didn't work for six months. She approached the SWIM, filled out the application and the SWIM paid her mortgage for a month. Right before the SWIM marathon in 2016 - in which Adler participated - her doctors found a spot in her lung; however, treatment didn't begin until the end of August. In September, special markers were placed in her lungs and she had three doses of radiation.    Adler's story continues to this day as she is still fighting cancer, although the radiation therapy seems to be working. As a nurse at St. Vincent's Medical Center, Adler shares her story with patients who need the comfort and understanding another survivor can provide. "I have always been the glass is half full kind of girl instead of half empty," Adler said. "You can't sweat the small stuff because life's too short."    Come and cheer on Kim and all the swimmers on Saturday, August 5, at Captain's Cove in Bridgeport.    Help others like Kim who continue to fight the most important battle of their lives by supporting the Swim Across the Sound. Donations can be made at swimacrossthesound.org/ marathon2017. About St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound is a charitable not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization run by the St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation of Bridgeport, CT. Founded in 1987 and celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year, the SWIM has had a unique niche helping individuals and families struggling through the difficult changes that cancer brings with it. The SWIM serves approximately 30,000 people annually by providing over 45 programs, including cancer education, screening, prevention and support programs at low- or no-cost for the uninsured and underinsured. In addition, the SWIM helps individual cancer patients on a case-by-case basis with specific financial assistance, funding of wigs and prostheses, medication assistance, free transportation to treatments and appointments, day-care scholarships, support groups and more. For more information, contact the St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation at (203) 576-5451 or visit www.SwimAcrossTheSound.org.

Black Tie Benefit Planned

DERBY - The 2017 Griffin Hospital Gala will be a night to remember with lavish food, unique auction items, and upbeat music and dancing on Oct. 13 from 7 – 11:30 p.m. at Aria, 45 Murphy Road in Prospect.

 

Guests will be treated to exquisite dining and first-rate entertainment to match Aria’s delightfully manicured and sculpted gardens, and breathtaking scenic views of autumn in Connecticut. A customized dinner will be served accompanied with live music.

 

The evening closes out with dancing to the energetic, Latin-inspired sounds and funky beats of the 10-piece band, Sugar. There will also be a silent auction for guests to bid on exciting prizes, including vacations and one-of-a-kind memorabilia.

 

Tickets start at $185 per person. Black tie is suggested.

 

Proceeds will fund the expansion of Griffin’s radiation therapy capabilities, including the introduction of radiosurgery and other leading-edge technological advances.

 

For more information on tickets or sponsorship opportunities, contact Lisa Nista at 203-732-7384 or email lnista@griffinhealth.org, or visit griffinhealth.org/gala.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Coffee Hour on Tap with State Sen. Logan

Eat, Drink & Be a Friend to Fluffy & Fido

Upcoming Trip to see Yankees vs Red Sox

Haynes Outdoor Living Showroom Opens in Seymour

SEYMOUR - Haynes Outdoor Living Showroom featuring the area’s largest displays of stone, pavers and outdoor living products for your home and yard invites held its grand opening for contractors and homeowners July 14-15.

 

Patrick Haynes, vice president of Haynes Materials said guests were treated to food courtesy of the company's outdoor grills and pizza oven, while they had a chance to experience "amazing outdoor living products at one convenient location.”

The two-day event featured a “Contractor’s Day” filled with demonstrations and product information seminars by Nicolock, Techo Bloc, Belgard and Unilock representatives pricing. On “Homeowner’s Day,” guests were treated to food, door prizes, raffles, entertainment and a live broadcast by WEBE 108FM. 

 

Dave Conti, local award winning owner of Red Planet BBQ and recent winner of 1^st Place Dessert at Mohegan BBQ Sunfest 2017 served as celebrity “grill master” during the event.

With an extensive display of custom built and “ready for delivery” outdoor kitchens, grills, fireplaces, fire-pits and burning rocks, Haynes Outdoor Living Showroom is your family destination for food and fun this weekend and all season long. 

 

“We are building a better world one stone at a time” said Patrick Haynes.

Haynes Outdoor Living is located at 600 Derby Avenue in Seymour, CT and the public is welcome. 

For more information please visit www.gohaynes.com or call 203-888-0030.

(This is a press release from Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce)

Train at Griffin for a Medical Career

DERBY - The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers, at 300 Seymour Avenue, Suite 206 in Derby, is offering classes for its fall Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Patient Care Technician (PCT) and Phlebotomy programs.

 

The evening session for the CNA program starts Sept. 11, and the day PCT program and the Phlebotomy program begin Sept 12. The accelerated CNA course offers students an affordable and condensed six-week schedule with classes Monday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m. Course content includes infection control, legal and ethical responsibilities, communications, body mechanics, moving and positioning residents, personal care skills, nutrition, measuring vital signs, and restorative care. The program’s clinical experience is at a long term stay facility and Griffin Hospital from 5-10 p.m. for a total of 40 hours.

 

After successfully completing the course and clinical experience, students will be qualified to take the certification exam for a Nursing Assistant in Connecticut. The CNA course tuition fee includes the course book, CPR training, and malpractice insurance coverage for the clinical rotation.

 

The 16-week PCT program requires students to attend practical training on Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., and have the option to take the Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday Phlebotomy classes either during the day from 9 a.m.-noon or during the evening from 6-9 p.m. The PCT program offers ample hands-on training and opportunities for practical experience in the school's fully equipped mock hospital room and during the 160 hours of clinical experience. The course tuition includes textbook, malpractice insurance, CPR certification, and national certification.

 

The 13-week Phlebotomy program holds classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays with a daytime option of 9 a.m.-noon or an evening option of 6-9 p.m. The course tuition includes a 40-hour internship, national certification, lab coats, CPR certification, malpractice insurance and textbook.

 

Anyone 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED may apply for admission. Early application is encouraged for all courses, as space is limited. For more information or to apply, call 203-732-1276 or 203-732-7578 or visit griffinhealth.org/allied-health.

 

About the School of Allied Health Careers

Griffin Hospital's School of Allied Health Careers was one of the first hospital-based schools of its kind to be authorized by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education and offers Phlebotomy and other professional educational programs to provide training, education, and certification in selected health careers. Classes are taught by certified instructors in the Griffin Hospital Medical Building, located at 300 Seymour Avenue in Derby.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Save the Date: Rock the Valley Returns in August

Derby Mayoral Candidate Set to Knock on Doors

DERBY - In regards to Mayor Dugatto opening headquarters...fortunately for me, she and Mr. Dicenso have to spend quite a bit of time over the next couple weeks focusing intently on one another, since they are effectively splitting the Democratic party.

 

Meanwhile, I'm about to start walking door to door to inform the citizens of Derby what I plan to do differently than the current Mayor. I think the failures of this administration have been pretty well documented, and anyone who considers Derby "in good shape" at this point after two terms with Anita and Carmen in charge, must not be paying attention. Most of the people I've spoken to are completely frustrated with the lack of transparency, petty political games, and mostly... the mismanagement of their tax dollars.
 

My team and I have already begun to ramp up our campaign efforts not only in person, but also online. My second fundraiser is coming up in 2 weeks at the CWV, and I look forward to the challenges ahead. I think it's hard for the average citizen to focus on the the municipal elections of November in July, but those who are involved in politics have already been working behind the scenes for months in preparation.
 

Good luck to the Mayor, I'm glad to see she is pushing hard to get re-elected, because that's exactly the kind of effort the people of Derby deserve from their elected officials all the time, not just in the months leading up to an election.

 

(This is a press release from Dziekan's campaign)

Attention Gear Heads: Car Show Coming to Valley

National Walk-in Healthcare Center Opens in Shelton

SHELTON - American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s leading provider of walk-in urgent care and occupational medicine, celebrated its grand opening July 10 at its newest Connecticut center at 389 Bridgeport Ave. in Shelton.

 

Mayor Mayor Mark Lauretti and Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell were among the invited guests for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.  

 

AFC provides fast, affordable care for sprains, fractures, concussions and many illnesses as well as routine health needs.  Board-certified physicians and other medical professionals treat patients efficiently and with compassion in a clean, family-friendly environment.  Patients appreciate the walk-in convenience, avoiding the extensive wait times and high copays of hospital emergency rooms or longer lead times for primary care appointments. 

 

The Shelton site will be open seven days a week from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.   

 

AFC’s state-of-the-art urgent care facility administers on-site X-rays and lab tests; sports and school physicals; vaccinations; travel medicine; occupational health tests such as employment physicals and drug screening; and workers compensation services that save time and money for both employees and employers.  With comprehensive care options and in-house lab capabilities, doctors can spend more time focused on patients.  The urgent care accepts most insurance plans and self-payment.  AFC’s goal is to be a one-stop medical resource for children, adults of all ages, businesses and community groups that delivers exceptional care and a great customer experience at affordable prices.   

 

In keeping with its mission and vision, AFC looks forward to community involvement and partnering with local businesses and non-profits to help greater Shelton grow.  For example, AFC offers CPR training to interested groups and has worked with Shelton Police on emergency medical assistance policies and procedures to help them obtain accreditation as a Tier 1 Connecticut Police Department. Employees at other centers are active in local chambers of commerce, Rotary Clubs, contributing to food pantries and sponsoring youth sports leagues.  

 

Dr. Steven Heffer, M.D., AFC owner and medical director, is opening his fourth clinic in Shelton following the success of two Bridgeport centers and a Fairfield location.  Dr. Heffer has over 20 years of experience in emergency medical care and is board-certified in emergency medicine.  He finds deep satisfaction in using his expertise to improve the quality of available care and positively impact health services in each community.  

 

In 2015 Dr. Heffer was recognized with the “Doctors of Distinction” Community Service Award from the Fairfield County Business Journal for his dedication to providing the highest quality medical care, improved access to care and service to his community.  He is currently National President of the Physician Advisory Committee at American Family Care and has served as General Practitioner of the Bridgeport Bluefish baseball team for the past three years.

 

“Our goal in establishing AFC in Shelton is to offer area residents greater access to high quality medical treatment that’s also fast, convenient and saves money,” says Dr. Heffer.  “Our patients’ care and well-being are at the heart of our business.  We aim to set a new standard in urgent care, contribute to the community in multiple ways and become a trusted health resource for Shelton and surrounding towns.” 

 

For more information on AFC Shelton, please visit www.AFCUrgentCareShelton.com or call

(203) 567-4171.  

About American Family Care:

Founded by Dr. Bruce Irwin with a single location in 1982, American Family Care has pioneered the concept of non-emergency room urgent care. With its 2013 acquisition of the Doctors Express, AFC has become the nation's leading provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine, with more than 170 clinics and 600 in-network physicians caring for nearly 3 million patients a year. Ranked by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S., AFC's stated mission is to provide the best healthcare possible, in a kind and caring environment, while respecting the rights of all patients, in an economical manner, at times and locations convenient to the patient. For more information, visit www.AmericanFamilyCare.com.

 

(This is a press release from AFC)

Valley Funeral Director Honored

Robert L. Muccino Jr., President of the Connecticut Funeral Directors Association (CFDA), presents a special 2017 award to Shelton resident Edward J. Sheehy, Jr., CFSP, CPC, CCO, a funeral director with Riverview Funeral Home in Shelton and Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home in Derby, as Sheehy’s wife, Jodi, looks on.

 

SHELTON- Edward J. Sheehy, Jr., of Shelton, CFSP, CPC, CCO, was recently recognized by the Connecticut Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) for 30 years as a licensed funeral director and service to the communities he serves.

 

Sheehy, CFDA’s Vice President, is a funeral director with Riverview Funeral Home in Shelton and Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home in Derby.

 

The presentation was made at CFDA’s 2017 Summer Meeting at the Water’s Edge Resort in Westbrook, Conn. The Connecticut Funeral Directors Association is a 128-year-old professional organization that is committed to the promotion and advocacy of high ethical standards in funeral service.

 

The organization represents funeral directors at more than 220 funeral homes in Connecticut. This includes the development and presentation of ongoing professional training opportunities for practitioners and educational programs for association members and the public.

 

For more information about the Connecticut Funeral Directors Association, call 860-721-0234 or 800-919-2332, or visit CTFDA.org or Connecticut Funeral Directors Association.

 

Sounds of Summer in Ansonia

Valley 5K Moves Back to the Fall

 

DERBY - The Ninth Annual 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital is moving back to the fall.

 

This non-competitive, family-friendly event is set for Sat., Sept. 30 at the Griffin Hospital Center for Cancer Care, 350 Seymour Ave., Derby. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. with the Walk/Run kicking off at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged, and the first 500 registered participants will receive t-shirts. Registration is $25. The registration fees will increase by $5 after Sept. 15.

 

Proceeds are earmarked for special needs of cancer patients, such as support for transportation, groceries, and wig and salon services, as well as patient support programs at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital. In addition to funding direct patient care needs, the proceeds from this year’s 5K will support the purchase of technological advances in Griffin’s Radiation Oncology department to provide exceptional cancer care that is comprehensive, comforting, and close to home.

 

The 5K draws walkers and runners from all over the Lower Naugatuck Valley, including participants from Derby, Ansonia, Shelton, Seymour, Oxford, Naugatuck, and all over the state. The 5k Walk/Run was started by the caregivers of the Cancer Center as a way to raise funds to purchase wigs for patients. The first Walk/Run exceeded expectations drawing over 200 participants and raising more than $25,000, providing opportunity for additional financial support for patients as they undergo cancer treatment. Now in its ninth year, the 5K has drawn thousands of participants over the years and raised more than $300,000 to help support local cancer survivors.

 

Participants can walk or run individually, or form a team with their family, friends and co-workers. Participants are encouraged to collect pledges or purchase a commemorative sign to honor or memorialize a loved one at the event.

 

Individuals and teams can register online at griffinhealth.org/5k. For more information, call 203-732-7466 or e-mail 5kwalkrun@griffinhealth.org.

Sponsor the Griffin 5K

 

The 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care still has sponsorship opportunities available, which include signage at the event, company logo on back of participant T-shirts, and opportunities to distribute promotional products at the event.

 

For more information about sponsorships, contact Laura Murphy at 5kwalkrun@griffinhealth.org or 203-732-7466.

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Youth Football Camp in Ansonia

Nature Center Offers Summer Programs

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, offers a variety of fun and educational programs in August.

 

BUTTERFLIES AND DRAGONFLIES – Aug. 6, 1 p.m.

Enjoy your Sunday afternoon at the park on our guided hike. Explore the Redwing Pond and our meadows for these beautiful six-legged, four-winged insects. 

The guide will show you our native butterfly gardens and teach you the benefits of native plants to our Connecticut butterflies and dragonflies. 

FREE. Registration required. 

FULL STURGEON MOON HIKE – Aug. 6, 7:30 p.m.

The Native American fishing tribes are given credit for the naming of this Moon, since sturgeon, a large fish of the Great Lakes and other major bodies of water, were most readily caught during this month. Join our staff on a hike in our meadows to watch as this reddish moon rises. Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Number of participants is limited, please pre-register. 
FEE: $3 per person. Wear appropriate footwear. 

MUSHROOM IDENTIFICATION FOR BEGINNERS – Aug. 12, 10 a.m.

Join a foraging family who hunt, photograph, identify, and love to eat the fungi in New England for a discussion and walk at the Ansonia Nature Center. 
We will dispel common myths, learn how to safely identify mushrooms with visual clues and guidebooks, and discuss mycophagy, the cooking and eating of wild mushrooms. 
After the lecture we’ll walk the property to search for wild fungi and put our newly learned skills to the test.
FEE: $5. Registration required.

ROCKS IN SPACE: Perseid Meteor Showers – Aug. 12, 7 p.m.

Come to Ansonia’s darkest location for some unusual night sky viewing with Bob Carruthers and the New Haven Astronomical Society.  In addition to a chance to see the annual meteor showers, there will be a short talk about meteorites. 
You and your family will get to view and touch meteorites from around the world. This night will be the peak of the showers! 
No need to bring anything except for warm clothing and a chair. Telescopes and binoculars are not necessary. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 
FREE. Registration required.

TURTLE TALK – Aug. 26, 1 p.m.

Anthony Pierlioni is Senior Director of the TurtleRoom, an online radio show dedicated to these fascinating reptiles and the people who love them. 
He’ll share his knowledge and some turtle species with us.

He is a member of the Turtle Survival Alliance, Turtle & Tortoise Preservation Group, New York Turtle & Tortoise Society, and New England Herpetological Society, as well as the online sites TurtleForum.com, TortoiseBoard.com, and TortoiseForum.org, where he can be found as Anthony P. 

You can contact him at anthony@theturtleroom.com. 
Registration required.

CATTAIL MAT WEAVING – Aug. 27, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sept. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Join Ranger Dan for a two-part series on cattails. Week 1 we will begin to collectively work on a mat made from the cattail reeds, and week 2 we will add the finishing touches to our mat. Learn how Native Americans from the Eastern Woodlands would use these reeds! 
Pack a bag lunch, and be prepared for swampy conditions. 
This program is for adults only. FEE: $6 per person covers both weeks. Please call to register.

ONGOING WEEKLY PROGRAMS

CREATURE FEATURE – Saturday at noon
Have you always wanted to pet a dove or hold a bearded dragon?  Here’s your chance!  Come meet the Nature Center’s Resident Animals every Saturday at noon!

GUIDED HIKE- Sundays at 1 p.m.

Have you ever wondered where the owls nest or where the deer sleep?  Join an Ansonia Nature Center Park Ranger on a Guided Hike every Sunday!

MONDAY NIGHT TRAIL RUN – Mondays in August and September, 5:30-6:30 pm

This is a call to all of the runners who want something that is out of the ordinary! Ranger Dan will lead you through our 156-acre network of trails, while you burn off the weekend's extra calories. We guarantee that this FREE program is the best way to start off your week.  
Please register and wear appropriate footwear. 

FAMILY ORGANIC GARDEN PROGRAM – Tuesdays, August through November

ANC will be continuing family-friendly activities in our organic garden. Learn about growing a variety of fruits and vegetables. Dress appropriately; keep in mind you will get water and soil on your clothing. 
FREE, with the potential to take home fresh local produce! 

 

Please call 203-736-1053 to register for all programs.

(This is a press release from the nature center)

Volunteers Needed for MS, Insomnia Study

DERBY - The Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center and Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Center, both located at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Derby, are seeking volunteers for a study on Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and insomnia.

 

The study will involve using mindfulness meditation to address insomnia. Volunteers will receive $200.

 

To participate, volunteers must have a diagnosis of MS and suffer from chronic insomnia, come to Griffin Hospital for three assessments throughout the study, be willing to attend a weekly, two-hour training session for eight weeks and wear a Fitbit activity monitor (provided to volunteers).

 

For information, call Sue at 203-732-1265 x220 or Rockiy at x300.

 

About The Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center

The Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center (PRC) is committed to research pertaining to the primary, secondary, & tertiary prevention of chronic disease that is responsive to the priorities of the Lower Naugatuck Valley residents, the residents of Connecticut 's major cities, and other communities throughout the state. The center is dedicated to participatory research methods, to a robust research agenda inclusive of developmental/determinant, intervention, and translational research; to community involvement in public health; to the eradication of disparities in health and health care in the communities served; and to the dissemination of effective interventions in support of the national objectives of Healthy People 2010.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Comedy Night July 15