Valley Chamber Honors Community Leaders

Pictured left to right: George Mitchell, GVCC Chairman of the Board; Ethan Fry & Eugene Driscoll, Valley Indy; Diane Stroman, Joe Welsh, Ray Oppel, Tom Haynes, Ramon Peralta, Emcee/Peralta Design/2016 Gold Seal Recipient)
 

 

SHELTON- The Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce recently recognized four individuals and one organization for their outstanding achievements in the community at its 46^th Annual Gold Seal Awards Banquet.

 

The Chamber presented five awards consisting of three Gold Seal Awards, one Platinum Award and one Silver Medal Award to the region’s business and community leaders who exemplify the spirit of selflessness and volunteerism. These awards are among the most prestigious and time-honored community service awards in the Valley.  

 

Ramon E. Peralta, Jr.  (Peralta Design, Shelton), 2016 Gold Seal recipient, served as Master of Ceremonies.

 

The Gold Seal Award is given annually by the Chamber to a recipient who demonstrates outstanding community service through dedicated and effective leadership.  The Gold Seal Award this year went to Tom Haynes (Haynes Group, Southbury), Raymond A. Oppel (CPA, Shelton) and Joseph Welsh (Aquarion Water, Shelton). 

 

Haynes has been an active participant and committee member for the Parent Child Resource Center charity ride in addition to donating his expertise and resources to Make A Wish and other area projects. Oppel, a Life Scout, is still active as a Boy Scout leader and serves on the board of the Valley Community Foundation. Welsh is best known for his conservation efforts throughout the region and also volunteers many hours with the Shelton schools.

 

In 2001, in honor of the 30^th Anniversary of the Gold Seal Awards, the Chamber introduced the Platinum Award.  It is presented to a past Gold Seal recipient of at least 10 years who is still dedicated to volunteering their time and resources on behalf of the Valley Community. This year’s Platinum Award honoree is Ansonia resident and Executive Vice President at TEAM, Inc. , Diane Stroman and a 1999 Gold Seal Award recipient.

 

Stroman serves on several community boards including the Valley Community Foundation, the Lower Naugatuck Valley Boys & Girls Club, and the Valley Juvenile Review Board. Stroman is the Chairperson of the Ansonia’s Elderly Services Commission, Co-chair of the Julian A. Taylor Scholarship Committee and former Chair of the Valley Council of Health and Human Services, Valley Council of Senior Services and Valley Council of Youth Services. She is a recipient of the Valley United Way Flynn Humanitarian Award, Valley Women Makes a Difference Award, James E. Wilkins Masonic Community Award, the NAACP Regional Youth Advisor Award and Rotary International Paul Harris Recognition.

 

The Chamber has presented the Silver Medal Award to recognize groups or partnerships that have made extraordinary contributions to the community or to recognize an individual’s dedicated service and assistance to the community.  This year’s Silver Medal Award recipient is the Valley Independent Sentinel.  Launched in the spring of 2009, The Valley Indy is a non-profit online newspaper covering the communities of Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton.

 

The combined efforts of all the recipients, both past and present, have resulted in lasting contributions in the Greater Valley communities of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton.

 

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

State Rep. Klarides-Ditria Lauds Budget Passage

Dear Neighbors,   After 117 days, the Connecticut General Assembly has passed another bipartisan budget, this time by a wide 126-23 margin in the House of Representatives and a 33-3 margin in the State Senate. I supported this broad, bipartisan agreement, and the large majority of votes from both parties indicates the likelihood of a veto override if the Governor once again vetoes the budget.   We were able to close a massive $3.5 billion deficit with only about 1% of total revenue resulting from tax and fee policy changes. Although the SEBAC union agreement approved by the majority party in July deeply constrained our abilities to reduce spending, we were able to reduce non-contractual spending in many areas of the budget while protecting services for those most vulnerable in our community, including individuals with intellectual disabilities, working families, and seniors. The budget also reduces overall bond authorizations, helping to control debt service spending for years to come.   Importantly, the budget features a variety of long-lasting spending constraints:   • Finally after 25+ years, it implements an effective constitutional cap on state spending; • An annual bonding cap of $1.9 billion in borrowing, a half billion less than what Governor Malloy approved to put on the state's credit card last year; • A revenue cap that prevents the state from spending all the money it expects to take in annually; • A volatility cap that will automatically send any excess revenue to the Budget Reserve Fund and help fund pension and debt service liabilities.   The budget also provides for tax relief by phasing in tax reductions for Social Security income, pension and annuity income, and gift and estate taxes for many residents across our state.   Additionally, this budget does not include the large tax increases that were previously proposed by Governor Malloy and the majority party, including proposed hikes to the income tax, sales tax, and hotel tax or new taxes on cell phone bills, homeowners insurance polices, restaurants, or investment properties. It also does not eliminate the car tax as once proposed.     As with any budget, however, it is not perfect. There are minimal revenue increases, reductions to energy efficiency programs, and greater contributions by teachers towards their pensions, which will go to their pensions - Not the General Fund. I do, however, feel that the good achieved by this budget far outweighs the tough decisions made to help balance it.   For more information on the bipartisan budget, visit cthousegop.com/budget.   As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach me at (860) 240-8700 or Nicole-Klarides-Ditria@housegop.ct.gov.   Sincerely, State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria

Shred It and Forget It!

Gentile Applauds Budget Approval

REP. GENTILE LAUDS PASSAGE OF BIPARTISAN BUDGET

 

This afternoon, State Representative Linda Gentile (D-104) praised the partisan state budget ending Connecticut's fiscal crisis and restoring potential cuts for Ansonia and Derby.

 

The budget passed the House of Representatives today in a 126 to 23 vote.

 

“This truly bipartisan budget is a win for both Ansonia and Derby, who were locked in limbo during the budget crisis,” Rep. Gentile said. “In addition to rejecting damaging cuts, this budget does not shift undue financial burdens onto local property taxpayers, invests in job creation efforts along with innovation and manufacturing, protects our community hospitals, and pushes Connecticut in the right direction.”

 

Under the governor’s executive order, both Ansonia and Derby were set to lose a significant amount of funding in municipal aide for the 2017-18 fiscal year. Specifically, Derby was set to lose $1.6 million and Ansonia was set to lose approximately $664,000. Under the bipartisan budget, all of this funding is restored.

 

“I have heard from town officials and residents that the potential cuts under the governor’s proposal would have been damaging to our communities and I am proud to have worked with members across the aisle to successfully restore them,” Rep. Gentile said.

 

Additionally, the budget:

 

• Restores funding for scholarships for low and middle-income students, like the Roberta Willis Scholarship
• Enacts a state spending and bonding cap
• Maintains the property tax credit of $200 for seniors and families with dependents
• Continues investments in job creation programs such as the Small Business Express, Manufacturing Assistance, Innovation Places and Brownfield Remediation

 

The budget will now head to the governor’s desk for approval.

 

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

TEAM Offers Help with Winter Heating Bills

DERBY - Families and individuals seeking financial help to offset their winter heating bills may apply to TEAM for assistance.

Families and individuals may qualify for help if they fall below these income limits: $34,366 for household of one, $44,940 for a two person household, $55,514 for a three person household, $66,089 for a four person household.

 

Applicants are deemed eligible based on review of their total household gross income, such as job earnings, unemployment compensation, social security, pension etc.; household size; and liquid assets, as shown through bank statements. 

If an applicant is approved for assistance, TEAM will make direct payments to their home heating provider. 

 

Both homeowners and renters who are residents of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Milford, Orange, Oxford, Seymour, Shelton, and Woodbridge can apply for energy assistance from TEAM.

 

To schedule an appointment with TEAM Energy Assistance, call 203-736-5420 and follow prompts for Energy Assistance, or in Milford, 203-783-3253; Woodbridge, 203-389-3429; Orange, 203-891-4787, and Bethany, 203-393-2100, ext.124.

(This is a press release from TEAM Inc.)

Get Your Mischief On!

DERBY- You're invited to our Mischief Eve Bash this Sunday —a family friendly day filled with live music, fun, games and prizes.

Contests will include stein holding, egg toss, toilet paper wrap, pumpkin painting, candy corn guess, candy corn relay and more.

Weenie Lynn and Liberty Rock food trucks will be here as well as buckets of wings from Dew Drop! We will also be launching a new beer — MISCHIEF IPA — for our BAD SONS doing GOOD THINGS charity tap line with the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley.

Come party with us and cause a bit of mischief!

(This is a press release from BAD SONS)

Communi"tini" Event to Benefit Valley United Way

SHELTON-  Join Valley United Way and chefs from local restaurants in a dazzling James Bond-themed fundraiser on Friday, November 17 at Scinto Towers Lobby, 2 Corporate Drive in Shelton. The festivities begin at 5:30pm.

The Stirring Your Communi“tini” gala will feature entertainment by Tony Riccio (Frank Sinatra tribute) and Jack Lynn(Dean Martin tribute). There will be a James Bond Costume Contest as well as a “SurPrize Balloon Pop” raffle, featuring a chance to win an exquisite “Rhythm of Love” diamond pendant valued at $2,500, generously donated by Marks of Design in Shelton, plus many other interesting prizes.

Numerous top area restaurants will be on hand with tasty bite-size appetizers, each paired with a different 1 oz. signature martini sample. There will be a People’s Choice and a Critic’s Choice award given for the best pairing.

Tickets are available for $50 online at valleyunitedway.org or by calling Valley United Way at 203-926-9478. 

All proceeds go to Valley United Way’s programs which focus on food insecurity. TheValley United Way is a leading philanthropic organization serving the towns ofAnsonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton. Their mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community through philanthropy, volunteerism and collaboration.

 

(This is a press release from Valley United Way)

Griffin's Books for Babies gets Big Boost

Michael Law, Senior Director, Customer Strategy and Planning at Edgewell Personal Care, second from left, recently presented a $5,000 donation to, from left, Margaret Fischer, RNC MSN NEA-BC C-EFM, clinical director of The Childbirth Center at Griffin Hospital, Griffin Hospital President and CEO Patrick Charmel, and Tricia O’Malley, director of The Griffin Hospital Development Fund, to support the Books for Babies program.

 

DERBY -  Edgewell Personal Care, of Shelton, recently made a generous $5,000 gift to support the Books for Babies program at The Childbirth Center at Griffin Hospital in Derby.

In addition to providing funds to purchase books for newborns, Edgewell also donated free sippy cups and feminine products.

 

“Edgewell is pleased to partner with Griffin Hospital to provide financial and product support to provide parents with the tools they need to get their children off to a good start,” said Michael Law, Senior Director, Customer Strategy and Planning at Edgewell and a member of Griffin Hospital’s Board of Directors.

 

The Books for Babies program provides a free children’s book to parents who have their baby at the Childbirth Center. A trained volunteer visits with parents to introduce the program and talk about the “how and why” of reading aloud to babies. Reading to babies builds a bond between parent and child, and stimulates brain development. Reading books opens doors to conversations and builds communication skills, language and literacy, as well as social and emotional skills.

 

About Edgewell

Edgewell is a leading producer of personal care products, including shaving preparations and systems, feminine care products and sun and skin care products.  The company has a broad global footprint and operates in more than 50 markets, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Japan and Australia with approximately 6,000 employees worldwide.

 

About The Childbirth Center at Griffin Hospital

The Childbirth Center at Griffin Hospital offers family-centered maternity care in an environment that will best meet individual and family needs. The Childbirth Center follows the patient-centered Planetree philosophy that focuses providing a warm, caring atmosphere for the patient and loved ones, including childbirth and child care education, and support groups. For more information, call 203-732-7252 or visit griffinhealth.org/childbirthcenter.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Carved Pumpkin Contest Oct. 28

Meet the Ansonia Candidates Oct. 25

Plenty of "Pink" Events on Tap

DERBY - The 8th Annual Valley Goes Pink invites the community to sip or stretch for relaxation and a good cause.

 

LuLu Pazzo, 314 Main St., Ansonia, will host “Wine Pairing for Pink Dinner” on Wed., Oct. 25 at 6:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy dinner paired with wines for each course. Call Jodi at 203-521-2233 for more information or to reserve a spot.

Professional Yoga Instructor Kimmarie will lead “Pink Namaste Yoga” on Sun., Nov. 5 from 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Derby. Minimum donation of $20. Visit kimmarieyoga.net to register.

 

In addition to these two events, Marks of Design, 389 Bridgeport Ave., Shelton, will host “Dig for a Diamond” on Thurs., Oct. 26 from 3-7 p.m. A $40 donation will give an individual a bucket and a chance to win a .90 karat diamond as well as precious and semiprecious faceted stones. The event is limited to 300 participants. Call 203-924-0030 or visit griffinhealth.org/pink to reserve a bucket.

 

The Valley Goes Pink is a grassroots, community-wide effort throughout the Lower Naugatuck Valley to create awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection, support the Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness at Griffin Hospital, and showcase partnering organizations.

 

For more information on how you can go Pink, including a calendar of events, visit griffinhealth.org/pink, like us on Facebook or contact the Griffin Hospital Development Fund at development@griffinhealth.org or 203-732-7504.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

The Hops Co. to host "Barktoberfest"

 

 

DERBY-  Following the success of last spring’s Beer for Beasts, The Hops Company, Connecticut’s only authentic beer garden, will host Barktoberfest on Sunday, October 22, 2017 from 12pm until 4pm.  The event will allow guests to bring their leashed dogs to partake in an afternoon of fun activities at The Hops Company’s back garden.  $1 from the sale of each beer will be donated to the Shelton Animal Shelter and Friends of the New Haven Animal Shelter.

A celebration of beer, people and our faithful four-legged companions, Barktoberfest will also include adoption opportunities.

 

Umberto Morale, owner of The Hops Company said, “The Hops Company is always looking for ways to give back to our local community.  This spring’s Beer for Beasts event was an enormous success, raising over $2,400 for local animal shelters.  We expect Barktoberfest to carry on this tradition and provide a fun day for animal lovers and their dogs to experience our expansive outdoor garden.”

Details

Date:  Sunday, October 22, 2017 12pm – 4pm (Rain date:  Sunday, October 29, 2017)

Where:  The Hops Company – The event will be held in the back garden with parking at 43 Marshall Lane, Derby, CT.

All pets must be on a leash.

 

About The Hops Company

The Hops Company is Connecticut’s only destination for an authentic beer garden experience. Offering over 36 draft beers, a full bar, and great food options that are served up in a traditional European beer garden setting with family-style tables, outdoor areas with fire pits, and plenty of games for the whole family. The Lodge and Barn at The Hops Company can accommodate walk-in and private parties of all sizes making it the perfect gathering place for friends and family to celebrate any occasion. The Hops Company is proud to have won Connecticut Magazine’s Reader’s Choice and Expert Pick for Best Beer Bar in the state.  Set across 4.5 acres and tucked away in scenic Derby, The Hops Company is a rustic hidden gem that is closer than you would think ̶ a short drive from Fairfield and New Haven County locations.  Fresh brews, food, friends and family… no wonder The Hops Company is the perfect destination for every generation.  For more information go to:  www.thehopscompany.com

 

(This is a press release from The Hops Co.)

Hear Early Legends of Rock 'N Roll

Co-Ed Volleyball in Seymour

Discover the Benefits of Volunteering

DERBY - The Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Derby, will host a free presentation about how volunteering can help individuals get or stay healthy on Thurs., Nov. 9 from 1:30-3 p.m.

 

Laura Murphy, Planetree Services Supervisor, will host “Realizing the Health Benefits of Volunteering,” a free presentation on how and why helping others can have a direct effect on a person’s physical, emotional and social being.

 

There will also be information about the many volunteer opportunities at Griffin Hospital.

 

This program is part of a series of free, educational forums hosted by the Community Health Resource Center to help improve the health of the community.

 

To register or for more information, call Kerry or Deborah at 203-732-7399.

 

The Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital is a traditional library that provides an array of medical and health information, including a large collection of easy to read health and lifestyle related materials. The Center is open to the public to educate themselves on ways to enhance their well-being, prevent illness and play an active role in decisions about their health.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Memorial Tag Sale Happening Oct. 21

Ansonia DTC to Host Pre-Election Pizza Party Fundraiser

WHAT:                             The Ansonia Democratic Town Committee (ADTC) presents their pre-election fundraiser supporting this year’s slated candidates.

WHERE:                          Rosa Mina Pizzeria – 384 East Main Street, Ansonia

WHEN:                             Saturday, October 21 – 5:00pm to 7:00pm

 Join ADTC for a "Pre-Election Pizza Party" annual fundraiser to support Ansonia Dems' slated candidates running in this November's municipal election. We are also expecting attendance from multiple Democratic candidates who are running for Governor as well, including new candidate Dita Bhargava (learn more about her by clicking here). Meet the candidates, and enjoy locally made food!

Cost is $30.00 per person, and includes unlimited pizza, tossed salad, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Children 10 and under are free. Cash bar will also be available.

Please remit your personal check, payable to "ADTC", along with SEEC Form P (which you can find here) to:

Jo Lynn Flaherty

28 Pinecrest Avenue

Ansonia, CT 06401

 
Payments and forms can also be submitted upon arrival at the event. If unable to attend, please consider making a donation to the campaign by clicking here. Mayoral candidate, Tarek Raslan, and all Democratic candidates are working tirelessly to ensure success on Election Day... ADTC is counting on you!

Please contact Jo-Lynn Flaherty with any questions about the event at (203) 982-3419

*Paid for by Ansonia Democratic Town Committee, James Hubbard, Treasurer

(This is a press release from the Ansonia DTC)

How Does Your Garden Grow?

The following is an article written by Lori Singer, a volunteer writer  ​for​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way:
 

The​ ​enthusiasm​ ​was​ ​infectious​ ​and​ ​tangible​ ​as​ ​residents​ ​came​ ​together​ ​a​ ​little while​ ​ago​ ​in​ ​the​ ​evening​ ​to​ ​celebrate​ ​the​ ​flourishing​ ​community​ ​gardens​ ​planted​ ​there​ ​this​ ​past​ ​May. 

The​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way’s​ ​program,​ ​“Grow​ ​Your​ ​Own”​ ​spearheaded​ ​by​ ​Susan​ ​Meek​ ​and​ ​followed by​ ​Brian​ ​Rich,​ ​consists​ ​of​ ​numerous​ ​garden​ ​beds--surrounded​ ​by​ ​picket​ ​fences--in​ ​Gatison​ ​Park​ ​and​ ​Pine Lot,​ ​both​ ​in​ ​Ansonia,​ ​CT.​ ​These​ ​neighborhoods​ ​were​ ​chosen​ ​as​ ​an​ ​ongoing​ ​effort​ ​to​ ​help​ ​low-income residents​ ​fight​ ​food​ ​insecurity​ ​in​ ​the​ ​Valley​ ​and​ ​provide​ ​more​ ​nutritious​ ​food​ ​for​ ​their​ ​families.

Echoing​ ​the​ ​positive​ ​sentiment,​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way​ ​President​ ​Sharon​ ​Gibson​ ​said,​ ​“Valley​ ​United Way​ ​is​ ​excited​ ​to​ ​offer​ ​the​ ​garden​ ​program​ ​to​ ​our​ ​Valley​ ​communities.” 

The​ ​key​ ​word​ ​is​ ​“community”​ ​as​ ​residents​ ​came​ ​out​ ​in​ ​droves-many​ ​discovering​ ​the​ ​gardens​ ​and produce​ ​were​ ​for​ ​them​ ​for​ ​the​ ​first​ ​time.​ ​Wide​ ​eyes​ ​and​ ​big​ ​smiles​ ​became​ ​commonplace​ ​as​ ​the​ ​news spread.​ ​Many​ ​residents​ ​asked​ ​for​ ​tours​ ​and​ ​were​ ​given​ ​bags​ ​to​ ​search​ ​for​ ​fresh​ ​veggies​ ​that​ ​were​ ​ripe​ ​for picking:​ ​cherry​ ​tomatoes;​ ​three​ ​different​ ​types​ ​of​ ​lettuce;​ ​green​ ​peppers;​ ​squash;​ ​chard;​ ​cabbage; cucumbers;​ ​eggplant;​ ​and​ ​many​ ​more,​ ​plus​ ​herbs​ ​to​ ​accent​ ​and​ ​give​ ​flavor​ ​to​ ​their​ ​meals:​ ​basil;​ ​sage; rosemary;​ ​cilantro;​ ​thyme​ ​and​ ​parsley. 

 “I​ ​live​ ​right​ ​next​ ​to​ ​Pine​ ​Lot​ ​and​ ​I​ ​thought​ ​this​ ​garden​ ​was​ ​just​ ​for​ ​the​ ​Boys​ ​and​ ​Girls​ ​Club.​ ​I clicked​ ​like​ ​and​ ​share​ ​on​ ​facebook​ ​and​ ​headed​ ​down​ ​here​ ​right​ ​away!,”​ ​said​ ​Rhonda​ ​Rossik.​ ​She​ ​added, “I​ ​can​ ​get​ ​the​ ​girl​ ​scouts​ ​involved​ ​too!,”​ ​as​ ​she​ ​walked​ ​through​ ​the​ ​garden​ ​sharing​ ​her​ ​knowledge​ ​and enthusiasm​ ​with​ ​others​ ​who​ ​were​ ​deciding​ ​what​ ​they​ ​wanted​ ​to​ ​pick​ ​for​ ​dinner.  

Cherry​ ​tomatoes​ ​were​ ​by​ ​far​ ​the​ ​most​ ​popular​ ​vegetable.​ ​At​ ​Gatison​ ​Park,​ ​Maya,​ ​her​ ​two​ ​sisters Ramona​ ​and​ ​Tiffany​ ​Wright​ ​and​ ​their​ ​children​ ​come​ ​to​ ​the​ ​garden​ ​often.​ ​“We​ ​go​ ​here​ ​everyday​ ​picking carrots​ ​and​ ​grape​ ​tomatoes​ ​and​ ​eating​ ​them,”​ ​she​ ​said.​ ​Jazmiah,​ ​Ramona’s​ ​7-year-old​ ​daughter​ ​“loves vegetables”​ ​and​ ​Tiffany’s​ ​daughter,​ ​5-year-old​ ​Kaylynn​ ​“loves​ ​gazpacho!” 

Another​ ​Gatison​ ​Park​ ​resident​ ​who​ ​frequents​ ​the​ ​garden​ ​is​ ​Malika​ ​Mosely.​ ​She​ ​has​ ​an 11-year-old​ ​daughter​ ​and​ ​walks​ ​by​ ​in​ ​the​ ​morning,​ ​afternoon​ ​and​ ​the​ ​evening​ ​on​ ​her​ ​way​ ​home​ ​from work.​ ​“I​ ​usually​ ​look​ ​for​ ​the​ ​lettuce,​ ​cucumbers​ ​and​ ​tomatoes,”​ ​she​ ​said. 

And​ ​what​ ​would​ ​a​ ​block​ ​party​ ​be​ ​without​ ​Domino’s​ ​pizza,​ ​an​ ​ice​ ​cream​ ​truck​ ​and​ ​a​ ​special​ ​arts and​ ​crafts​ ​project​ ​for​ ​the​ ​children?​ ​Plus​ ​chef​ ​Audra​ ​Weisel,​ ​who​ ​had​ ​stiff​ ​competition​ ​from​ ​the​ ​pizza​ ​and ice​ ​cream,​ ​but​ ​was​ ​up​ ​to​ ​the​ ​task.​ ​Happily​ ​she​ ​handed​ ​out​ ​samples​ ​of​ ​her​ ​healthy​ ​cooked​ ​tomatoes, asparagus,​ ​zucchini​ ​and​ ​other​ ​fresh​ ​veggies​ ​along​ ​with​ ​the​ ​recipes​ ​for​ ​cooking​ ​them​ ​in​ ​their​ ​own​ ​homes. 

Weisel​ ​has​ ​a​ ​long​ ​history​ ​of​ ​helping​ ​out​ ​low-income​ ​families​ ​and​ ​started​ ​digging​ ​and​ ​planting​ ​for “Grow​ ​Your​ ​Own“​ ​this​ ​past​ ​May.​ ​“I’m​ ​happy​ ​to​ ​lend​ ​my​ ​expertise​​ ​i​n​ ​any​ ​way,​ ​shape​ ​or​ ​form,”​ ​she​ ​said. Quickly​ ​adding​ ​whether​ ​that​ ​means,”teaching​ ​them​ ​how​ ​to​ ​can​ ​their​ ​vegetables​ ​or​ ​learning​ ​how​ ​to​ ​cook them.”​ ​She​ ​is​ ​hoping​ ​“they​ ​will​ ​try​ ​something​ ​new​ ​…​ ​and​ ​like​ ​it!”  

“Grow​ ​Your​ ​Own”​ ​is​ ​one​ ​of​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way’s​ ​projects.​ ​With​ ​a​ ​third​ ​garden​ ​already​ ​planted​ ​at Irving​ ​School​ ​in​ ​Derby,​ ​the​ ​program​ ​is​ ​expecting​ ​to​ ​expand​ ​next​ ​year,​ ​including​ ​more​ ​locations​ ​and getting​ ​more​ ​of​ ​the​ ​community​ ​involved.​ ​This​ ​is​ ​possible​ ​thanks​ ​to​ ​the​ ​generosity​ ​of​ ​our​ ​premiere sponsor,​ ​Avan​ ​Grid,​ ​plus​ ​Newtown​ ​Savings​ ​Bank​ ​and​ ​Lavietes​ ​Foundation. 

The​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way​ ​is​ ​a​ ​nonprofit​ ​organization​ ​with​ ​other​ ​projects​ ​and​ ​events​ ​happening simultaneously​ ​to​ ​fulfill​ ​the​ ​need​ ​of​ ​scarcity​ ​of​ ​food​ ​in​ ​the​ ​Valley.​ ​Two​ ​of​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way’s​ ​signature projects,​ ​Back​ ​to​ ​School​ ​Clothes​ ​for​ ​Kids​ ​and​ ​their​ ​21st​ ​Week​ ​of​ ​Caring​ ​project-Harvest​ ​House​ ​VII,​ ​are both​ ​aimed​ ​at​ ​helping​ ​low-income​ ​kids​ ​and​ ​their​ ​families.

To​ ​volunteer​ ​or​ ​get​ ​involved​ ​with​ ​the​ ​Valley​ ​United​ ​Way,​ ​please​ ​contact:​ ​Patricia​ ​Tarasovic,​ ​Vice President​ ​of​ ​Community​ ​Engagement​ ​at​ ​(203)​ ​926-9478​ ​or​ ​visit:​ ​​www.valleyunitedway.org​.

Senior Health & Wellness Fair Oct. 18

"Halloween Hoopla" Happening Oct. 27

DERBY - The 16th Annual Children’s Health and Safety Fair will be “treating” families to Halloween fun on Fri., Oct. 27 from 3-7 p.m. at Warsaw Park on Pulaski Highway in Ansonia.

 

Griffin Hospital Community Outreach and Valley Parish Nurse Program, Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley, Griffin Faculty Physicians, and Avangrid encourage families to put on their Halloween costumes and come to a “Halloween Hoopla,” featuring free healthy treats, games, and information on a variety of health, wellness and safety programs.

 

The event will be held rain or shine.

 

Interactive health, wellness and safety displays at the event will include poison prevention, good hand washing, and how to call 9-1-1. There will also be a bike helmet clinic and a safety house exhibit to teach about safety features in homes. Free, fitted bike helmets will be available for the first 500 children.

 

For more information, call 203-732-1337 or 203-732-7371.

 

About the Valley Parish Nurse Program

The Griffin Hospital Valley Parish Nurse program was established in 1990 and is now one of the oldest 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.

 

About Safe Kids

Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley works to prevent unintentional childhood injury, the number one cause of death for children in the United States. Its members include local police, fire, EMS, schools, LNV Boys & Girls Clubs, TEAM Headstart, Derby Elks, and VSAAC. Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley is a member of Safe Kids Worldwide, a global network of organizations dedicated to preventing unintentional injury. Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley was founded in 2004 and is led by the Griffin Hospital Valley Parish Nurses. For more information, visit safekids.org.

 

About Griffin Faculty Physicians

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, Southford, Seymour and Shelton.

 

(This is a press release from Griffin Hospital)

Haircuts for a Cause

Get in the Swim of Things in Seymour

Hunting/Fishing Licenses Available Again in Derby

 

Derby – Town/City Clerk Marc J. Garofalo, MPA, CCTC announced that effective Tuesday, October 10, 2017, the City of Derby Town/City Clerk’s Office will begin issuing Hunting and Fishing Licenses. 

 

“I am happy to have our office offer this service to hunters and anglers so that they may conveniently enjoy these outdoor sports in our City and State.”  stated Garofalo who has served as Town/City Clerk since 2013.

 

“We have received numerous requests to re-institute this service and I felt it was a service that the City should be providing.”  he continued.  The Town/Clerk’s office stopped issuing sports licenses in 2009.

 

The Town/City Clerk’s Office obtained, at no cost to the City, the necessary hardware from the State of Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection and it has been installed.  “It was a pleasure working with DEEP to re-introduce this service to the City of Derby. They have been very helpful through the process.”  Garofalo noted.

 

Residents may also obtain a Hunting or Fishing licenses online by visiting DEEP at https://www.ct.wildlifelicense.com/internetsales .

 

Derby City Hall is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Thursday from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm, and Friday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

 

The Town/City Clerk’s Office can be reached at 203.736.1462 Extension 2 or http://www.derbyct.gov/City/Town-Clerk/

Craft Beer on Tap in Seymour

SEYMOUR- Smoke in the Valley Returns to Katharine Matthies Field in Seymour Connecticut Saturday October 7th! CT's largest Beerfest, the festival will feature a Homebrew Compeitition, Beer from Over 30 Local, Regional and National Breweries and a VIP Ticket Tent with early access at 12pm and Exclusive Beers such as Oud Beersel Lambics (Sour), Durchese De Bourgogne (Sour), De Dolle, Delirium, La Trappe and More! The Event is 21 and Over and there are unlimited samples. In addition there will be Food Trucks, Artisan Vendors and Live Music from CK3, Fingersleeve, Quicksand Planet and More!

Soccer Game to Benefit Breast Cancer

TEAM Seeks Volunteers for Free Tax Preparation Service

DERBY-  TEAM, Inc.,  is seeking volunteers to assist low-income families and individuals in filing their taxes and claiming refunds owed to them, such as federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) that can boost their yearly income by up to 35 percent.  The TEAM VITA program is held at the VITA Clinics located at TEAM Derby, Derby Neck Library and the Milford Senior Center and operates from January 29 to April 16, 2018.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) offers free preparation of federal and state income tax returns to low-income individuals and families.  No experience is necessary.  All volunteers will receive training appropriate for their position.  Volunteers receive the materials for self-study on basic income tax law for federal and state returns.  In addition, training sessions will take place in January 2018. 

To become a VITA Volunteer and to learn more about the program, a VITA  Information Session will be held on Monday, October  30, 2017, 5:00 p.m. at TEAM, 30 Elizabeth Street, Derby , CT.  Please call (203) 736-5420 ext. 202 or email spaytas@teaminc.org to reserve a seat.

TEAM Inc. is a private, 501(c)3 non-profit corporation whose mission is to strengthen our community by educating, supporting and empowering individuals and families. TEAM programs impact the communities of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Milford, Naugatuck, Orange, Oxford, Shelton, Seymour, Waterbury and Woodbridge.           

(This is a press release from TEAM)

New England Style Family Breakfast on Tap

Valley Organization Celebrates 50 Years

                                                                       (Photos Courtesy of Fred Ortoli)

Valley United Way celebrated 50 years of service on Thursday, September 21st, 2017 with their annual Campaign Kickoff and Seventh Harvest House at Veterans Park Pavilion.

During the day, more than 200 volunteers helped dozens of companies deliver food to our Seventh Harvest House where we collected over 100,000 items of food which were then donated to the five food pantries who service the Valley community.

Later that afternoon at 5:30 p.m., Valley United Way kicked off their campaign year with an afternoon full of community harmony, laughter, and service.

The event included a wonderful performance by Center Stage, live music, food trucks, and an inspiring speech from our keynote speaker, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, who spoke about the significant work of Valley United Way and the importance of working together to address food insecurity. This event would not have been possible without our gracious sponsors: BIC Corporation, Edgewell Personal Care, Newtown Savings Bank, and Pitney Bowes.

Valley United Way has set a goal to raise $1.1 million dollars by June 30th by working together with our local business owners, corporations, employees and residents to raise, invest and leverage funds. United Way fights for every person in every community and we can’t do it without the community’s support.

Leading this year’s efforts is Valley United Way’s Campaign Chair, Jimmy Tickey! Jimmy has a strong sense of service to his community and has been involved with the Valley United Way since he was in the Valley United Way Youth Leadership Program. He is proud to lead the Valley United Way Community Campaign this year and is looking forward to working with community leaders, businesses and residents as we collectively fight for a stronger community. Working as a team, Jimmy hopes to strengthen families across the Valley, encourage youth to succeed and assist people in crisis.
  
Several companies and organizations have already begun planning for their campaigns and this month we will begin in all five of our school districts, the City of Derby and City of Ansonia.
If you, your business or company is interested in Working for a Stronger Community alongside Valley United Way, call Daniel Pearson, Resource Development Manager today at (203) 926-9478 or email daniel.pearson@valleyunitedway.org. And be sure to stay connected to the campaign on our website!

For more information, please contact Daniel at Valley United Way at (203) 926-9478 or daniel.pearson@valleyunitedway.org.

(This is a press release from Valley United Way)

Shelton Girl Meets Pop Star Katy Perry

Katy Perry and Gabriella Jones

SHELTON - One lucky Shelton child met Katy Perry onstage at her recent concert at Mohegan Sun, thanks to the world-famous singer and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. 

Katy and BGCA have joined together to help put millions of young people on the path to a great future; part of the venture included giving her fans a chance to see her live by showing their support of their local Boys & Girls Club. 

 

The Valley's Boys & Girls Club was awarded 50 tickets for the concert at Mohegan Sun on Sept. 21, and the show was the second performance of Perry's brand new Witness tour.

At the concert, during a set which included planets and stars descending to stage level, Katy asked if any of her fans would like to help her wish upon a star. 

 

After searching the audience, Katy selected Gabriella Jones, a member of the Raymond P. Lavietes Unit in Shelton. 

 

Gabriella was wearing one of the special bright pink T-shirts made for the event, with a Boys & Girls Club logo on the front. When Katy brought her on stage, she asked Gabriella to wish on the star and to say what she wished for so that people could support her in her wish. 

 

After a moment of thought, Gabriella responded, “To pray for all the people that suffered from the hurricanes.” 

The crowd went wild, and Katy noted that Gabriella had been “brought up right,” and with the audience, Katy and Gabriella sent love and support to all those affected by the hurricanes.

As part of the partnership with Katy Perry, $1 of every ticket purchased is donated to Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The partnership was formed because Katy and BGCA share a commitment to improving the lives of young people through education, empowerment, and demonstrating good citizenship.

 Katy is one of the most famous singers in the world and is the most-followed person on Twitter with nearly one hundred million followers.

The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley has been changing the lives of young people in the Valley for more than 60 years, providing safe, fun, affordable programming and constructive care for youth when they are not in school. More than 3,300 kids in four units attend our programs on a yearly basis.

For more information about the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, visit  www.BGC-LNV.org.

(This is a press release from the Boys & Girls Club)