Ansonia Nature Center Offers Facebook Programs

It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas in Ansonia

Nature Center Collecting Empty TP and Paper Towel Tubes

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center is in need of empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes for a huge craft project they'll be doing in honor of MLK Jr. Day, Jan. 21, at the Peabody Museum. Items can be dropped at the Nature Center no later than Jan. 18 (the earlier, the better), 10 Deerfield Lane. For more information call 203-736-1053. 

Ansonia Harvest Festival Happening Sept. 29

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich

jean.sos@snet.net
@nhrvalley on Twitter

ANSONIA >> Organizers of this year’s Ansonia Harvest Festival have “pulled out all the stops” to usher in the fall season this weekend with plenty of food, festivities and family fun.

The 18^th annual festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday (SEPT. 29) in downtown. This year’s event is sponsored by Road Ready Used Cars, and is free and open to the public.

Event Coordinator Rich DiCarlo said the Ansonia Cultural Commission has been working hard to ensure this year’s festival will be bigger and better than ever.

“Every now and then we have to change things up to keep it fresh and new,” said DiCarlo.

In addition to dozens of food and craft vendors lining Main Street, offering the likes of fried dough and fried chicken to BBQ and Spanish cuisine, DiCarlo said this year’s festival will highlight what makes Ansonia special.

The city’s Fire House Museum will be on display with antique fire apparatus and engines, along with antique autos and tractors. The Valley Arts Council will be previewing some art in front of the site that will house their new “Main Street” Gallery this fall. 

There will also be hay rides, pony and horse rides, a petting zoo, a kid’s zone, face painting, henna temporary tattoos and more.

Live music will also be featured all day long featuring Southern Voices, Sumo Side Car, Survivor Swing Band and a Magic show by Pete n' Chris! 

“Harvey” the festival mascot will also be on hand, and joined this year by the Connecticut Siren girls who’ll be dressed like scarecrows and strolling Main Street for photo opportunities.

Also new this year is a pie baking and pie eating contest, both sponsored by Eddy’s Bake Shop. The pie eating contest will be held at Eddy’s at 2 p.m.

DiCarlo said there is plenty of free parking adjacent to Main Street, and “the weatherman is calling for a beautiful sunny autumn day.”

Mayor David Cassetti is looking forward to the annual event.

“The Harvest Festival is a long-standing Ansonia tradition,” Cassetti said. “I am very excited about it because in addition to bringing the community together and building on the strong ties we all have in the Valley, this event helps to showcase our businesses and restaurants. We are very proud of our recharged downtown and this is a great event to showcase that.”

 

Fall Festival on the Farm

VFW to Host Car Show

SEYMOUR- VFW Post 12084 will host a Car Show from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 26 at Colonial Tavern in Oxford, 25 Hawley Rd.

Featured will be classic cars, trucks, bike, antique military equipment and more.

All vehicles are welcome. Registration is $15 for car vendors and $40 for craft vendors. Military vehicles are free, but please call ahead to reserve a space.

Proceeds will benefit local veterans.

The show will also feature a 50/50 raffle, prizes, live music, food and crafts.

Admission is $4 for adults; $2 for seniors and free for children under 8, or $10 a carload.

For registration or more information call Al at 203-736-7981, Henry at 860-484-5221 or email George at: georgechiodo47@gmail.com.

Vendors Wanted for Holiday Marketplace

Soupstock Music & Arts Festival Announces its 2017 Music Lineup

SHELTON- Soupstock Music & Arts Festival proudly announces its 2017 music lineup bringing together national and local touring acts and exciting newcomers to the stage. The Festival once again invites area residents of all ages to come and experience an arts, music and culinary experience like no other.

The annual event will take place over two days on Saturday June 10^th and Sunday June 11^th at Veteran’s Park in Shelton.

Directors Nicole Heriot-Mikula, Joe Mango and Derek Signore unveil a lineup that follows the contour of previous festivals celebrating the best in local talent to match national acts otherwise reserved for ticketed events. New for 2017, Ska and Reggae Legends The Skatalites and Electrofunk powerhouse Particle co-headline the main stage with newcomers Sophistafunk and American Idol’s Elise Testone. Also returning is favorite Ryan Montbleau with his new ensemble, Yes, Darling featuring Hayley Jane.  Also sharing top billing are local mainstays, The Alpaca Gnomes and Bella’s Bartok, both returning to this year’s festival.

Established in 2010, Soupstock Music & Arts Festival has grown organically into one of Connecticut’s leading independent arts and music events. The festival has earned its reputation by attracting premier talent across all mediums to provide a landscape meant to please all the senses.

The festival’s mixture of arts, cuisine and culture means there is something for everyone. Our Vendor Village will have over 30 handmade artisans and non-profit organizations and the Kids Zone will be better than ever, providing a safe interactive environment for children of all ages with two major highlights this year: One World Puppetry and Creation Song Project. Our Annual Pro/Am Soup& Chili Cook-Off round out the event to make it extra delicious!

Proceeds will benefit the Mary A. Schmecker Turtle Shell Fund, furthering Art, Craft and Music Education for children and young adults.

For more information and to purchase tickets,  visit: www.soupstockfestival.org or join us on:

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/soupsstockfestival

 

Derby Public Library Announces Summer Programs

DERBY- The Derby Public Library will once again be running a Summer Reading Club for adults ages 18 and over. 

This year participants are invited to read and Build a Better World, one book at a time.  The club will begin on June 19 and run through August 11. 

As participants read books of their choice, they will be asked to anonymously

complete a very brief review form to share with fellow readers.  Readers will have the

option of doing this either online by using LitKeeper, or the more traditional hand written

way. These reviews will be posted and shared.   

Readers will receive a participation prize after they submit their first review.  Weekly raffles will be held for all readers sharing for each particular week.  All participants will be invited to a final summer celebration on Monday, August 14 at 6:30 PM.  

Registration begins on June 1.   

Ongoing programs such as Wednesday Movie Matinees, Tech Times, Resume “Right”-ing, Lunchtime Book Discussions and Sports Talks will continue throughout the

summer, along with many other special programs.   

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

Also happening  at the library is another Recycle, Repurpose, and Reuse Craft Class on Tuesday, June 6 at 6:30 PM.   

Ansonia Animal Control Officer, Jeanie Roslonowski, returns to the Library to show participants ages eighteen and over, how to turn old CDs and DVDs into beautiful Garden Decorations.  All materials will be provided.  The class will also include information on conservation and animal issues.  

 

Registration is required.  For more information, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St.

or call 203 736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org. 

 

(This is a press release from Derby Public Library)

Summer = fun for kids at Derby Neck Library

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library will host Ancient Games, a program for all ages, from 6-8 p.m. July 1.
Come learn how to play mancala, parchessi, go, backgammon, chess or other games of skill and strategy. Bring a friend or family member for an evening of fun.

Video game tourney

Photo taken from website

From 1-3 p.m. July 8 the Library will host a Video Game Tournament for teens and 'tweens.  Games to be played will be announced on posters in the library.  Come compete for prizes and enjoy free refreshments  Bring your friends.  

Learn about Leonardo

The Library presents “Little Leonardo and the Fantastic Flying Machine”  at 10:30 a.m. July 10.
This free program visits a young Leonardo DaVinci and watches him as he builds a flying machine under the guidance of Master del Verrocchio, a famous painter and sculpture of 15th century Italy.  This event is geared toward children ages 3 and older.

Teen movie

I-Spy Teen Movie Night will be held from 5:30-8 p.m. July 10.  Come enjoy “Insidious, Chapter 2” on Blu-ray.  A free pizza dinner will be served at intermission.  Watch the movie for clues in a game of I-Spy.
Winners will be awarded prizes. Registration is required.

Create a craft
A free crafting program for teens and 'tweens will be offered from 2-4 p.m. July 14.

Make original creations to keep using felt.  Materials and all the tools you need will be provided. Bring a friend. Registration required.
 

Balloon animal fun

The Library presents Mr. Bungle with his comedy and fantastic balloon animals at 2 p.m. July 16.  All ages are invited to this free program and everyone gets to take home one balloon sculpture. Registration required.

Puzzle tournament

From 2-4 p.m. July 17  the Library will host a 3-D Puzzle Tournament for teen and tweens.  Working alone or with a friend fashion a variety of 3-D puzzles.  First people to complete their project are awarded prizes.  All finished puzzles may be taken home.
Registration required.

Science program

At 10 a.m. July 23 the Library presents “Marvelous Marvin’s Science Dance Experience.”  Come learn basic science principles while you also discover the magical facts of movement.  Play with fun toys while you enjoy the experience.  This program is suited to ages Pre-K through Grade 4. Registration required.


Workshop on drug trends

From 6 -7:30 p.m. July 24 the Library will host a free workshop and information session on Connecticut Drug Trends, presented by the Derby Youth Bureau. 
This is an opportunity for parents to discover what is happening in our state and ways you can help your children avoid any dangers. Special focus will be given to the new marijuana laws. 
Registration required.

Music for little ones

On July 28 at 10 a.m. and again at 11 a.m. all babies, toddlers, and their caregivers are invited  to enjoy music with Deirdre Murtha.  She sings and plays while the little ones enjoy their own musical instruments and colorful scarves to dance with. 

The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave. For information or to register call 203-734-1492.


This post is taken from a press release from Pat Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library. 

Vendors sought for holiday fair in Shelton

SHELTON - Wesley Village, a campus of senior living communities at 580 Long Hill Ave. is seeking vendors for its annual Festival of Trees and Craft Fair. 

The fair will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 22 and 23.  

If you are looking for a well-attended event in which to sell special crafts, eight-foot tables are available for $50 a day. 

Contact Barbara Quinn, Director of Volunteer Services, 203-944-8292, to reserve a table. 


This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Ansonia Library to host craft workshops

ANSONIA - Illustrator and recycling artist Tracy Viverretta from Tracyville will conduct recycling craft workshops at the Ansonia Library from 1-2:30 p.m. every other Friday starting July 11.

Photo taken from website

She will focus on how to make everything ranging from bags to jewelry to natural body products, and more.

The library is at 53 S. Cliff St.

Registration, cost and more information is available at http://tracyville.blogspot.com/p/workshops.html.

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

Ansonia Nature Center to host 'Geology 101,' craft workshop

ANSONIA - Would you like to know what kind of rocks you have found?

At 11 a.m. March 23 Connecticut geology enthusiasts Mike Polletta and Jeremy Zolan will visit the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center to explain the basics and show fascinating examples of Connecticut's gems.

The program will include a hike to explore the geology of the park at 10 Deerfield Road.

Bring your own mystery rocks to have them identified.


Call 203-736-1053 to register for this free program. 

Creative fun for kids
Join Andrea Schmitt from Inner Artist at 1 p.m. March 29 to create fairy and troll houses from natural materials.

This program is geared toward children ages six and older who must be accompanied by an adult.

There is a $5 materials fee.

Space is limited; call 203-736-1053 to register for this afternoon of creative fun.




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

Seymour Rec to offer preschool fun

SEYMOUR - The Seymour Recreation Department will offer activities in March and April for preschool children in the Valley.

Mondays: March 17-April 28
Playgroup for Parent/Guardian and children ages 1-5
Come out and play with other families and make new friends. Toys and games available.
No class on April 14
9:30-10:30 a.m.; $25 for six weeks

Tuesdays: March 18-April 29
Preschool Craft Class
An opportunity for ages 2-5 to be creative and make some fun projects. A story will be read and a corresponding craft opportunity will be made. (Please dress child in clothes that you don’t mind your child getting a bit dirty.)
No class on April 15
9:30-10:15 a.m.; $25 for six weeks

Wednesday or Thursday: March 19-April 30, March 20-May 1
Preschool Sports Mania Class
Ages 2-5 are welcomed to join us in sports and games that are geared for younger children. This class fills up quickly and is a great way for your child to get a basic introduction to some new skills like soccer, floor hockey, Frisbee toss, and more.
Proper gym attire required.
No class on April 16 and 17
9:30-10:15 a.m.; $25 for six weeks

All classes are held at the Seymour Recreation Department gym and classrooms at 20 Pine St.

For information, call 203-888-0406. Don’t delay your registration; come out and play with us.
Non-Seymour residents welcomed for an additional fee of $5.



This is a press release from  Missy Orosz, part-time Associate Recreation Director,  Seymour Recreation Department.

Kids to get crafty at Derby Public Library

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

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

Registration is requested.

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


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

Therapy dog, crafts, movies, and more slated at Derby Neck Library

DERBY - Grant, a therapy dog, will visit Derby Neck Library from 3-4 p.m. Nov. 3 for B.A.R.K. (Be a Reading Kid).
This program allows a child to practice reading to a trained, listening dog.
Registration for a 15-minute session requested.

Ancient board game

A Go! Club for teens and adults meets at the Library at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 5.
Come learn this ancient Chinese game that predates chess. Boards and game pieces are available at the library and  instruction as to the game’s rules and strategies will be provided free of charge.
Registration is requested.

Pizza, movie

At 5:30 p.m. Nov. 7 adults over 18 are invited to enjoy dinner and a movie.
This monthly free program will feature ”Young Frankenstein” in high definition blu-ray.
Free refreshments will be provided, including pizza. Registration is requested.

Music and movement
Join Miss Kathi at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 13 for Bedtime Music and Movement.  Children are invited to wear their pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal as they sing and dance. Registration requested.

Thanksgiving story time

At 3 p.m. Nov. 17 the Library will present “This is the Feast” for children ages 2 and older.
Join Linda Milardo, a history re-enactor and storyteller as she helps you celebrate Thanksgiving with a story. Participants will create a puppet craft. Registration requested. 

Women's Forum

At 12:30 p.m. Nov. 18 the Library will host Women’s Forum, a monthly discussion group that focuses on ideas and interests important to women—including the arts, literature, history, and the news.
This month we discuss our memories of Thanksgiving, such as family traditions, prayers, games, recipes, etc. Bring a light lunch; free coffee and tea provided.


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



This post is taken from a press release from the library.

Derby Library to host holiday crafts programs

Turkey to have starring role

DERBY - A special children’s holiday program will be held at 11 a.m. Nov. 16 at the Derby Public Library.

Children in kindergarten through Grade 4 are welcome to attend The Thanksgiving Feast.  
Join Linda Milardo, a historical re-enactor and educator who will be dressed in Colonial attire, for a story about the Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving. 
Kids will be able to view Colonial objects and toys and have fun making a turkey craft.

The program is free, but registration is requested.

Crafty Kids

       The Derby Public Library invites children in kindergarten through Grade 4 to stop by the library at 3:45 p.m. Nov. 19 for a Thanksgiving-themed Crafty Kids.  All materials will be provided and there is no fee to attend.

      Registration is requested. 

Tween Tuesdays
    The newly introduced Tween Tuesdays program for 10 to 12-year-olds continues at the Library with a Thanksgiving themed arts and crafts project at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 19.
    All materials will be supplied and there is no fee to attend.

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

Science Snoopers

       Science Snoopers presents Turkey Time at the Library at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 20. Children ages 3-6 will learn all about this “noble” bird as it was often called by Ben Franklin during this hour-long, interactive presentation.

     The Science Snoopers series are designed to introduce children to the natural world around them offering them an opportunity to explore the simplicity and complexity of science. 
    The class includes a short talk enhanced with hands-on material, props and an experiment, a short story related to the theme followed by an art project.

     Registration is requested. There is no fee to attend. 
     For further information or to register for any of the above programs, call the Children’s Room at 203-736-1482, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.


This is a press release from the library.

TEAM, Wesley Village to host festival of trees, craft fair in Shelton

10th annual event planned

I snapped this photo at last year's preview reception at Wesley Village. All of the trees were beautifully decorated.

SHELTON – The 10th annual Festival of Trees and Wesley Village Craft Fair will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 23 and 24 at Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave.
The event benefits Volunteer Caregivers at TEAM, Inc. and activity programs for seniors at Wesley Village. 

The two days include activities and fun for the whole family, including the viewing of beautifully decorated themed trees and wreaths donated by area businesses, organizations, and individuals.  Participants may buy raffle tickets for the chance to win any of the donated trees.
All drawings will be held on Sunday at 3:15 p.m. Winners do not need to be present. 

The event also features a Holiday Craft Fair, with more than 50 vendors offering a variety of unique gifts and handmade crafts.
A local photographer will be taking photos with Santa from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. both days. 

Throughout the day, there will be a holiday bake sale as well as refreshments available in the Crosby Commons Café.

Information about TEAM 
TEAM provides supportive services to over 5,000 low and moderate-income families in the lower Naugatuck Valley region and Milford.
Located in Derby, TEAM programming assists socially and economically vulnerable families to meet their basic needs and become more self-sufficient.
Services reach all sectors of the community (e.g. young parents, preschool children, seniors and the working poor) through affordable child development, elderly nutrition, asset development, housing crisis avoidance, energy assistance and senior supports.
For more information on TEAM, please visit www.teaminc.org.


About Wesley Village
The Wesley Village Campus provides a continuum of relationship-centered care. Wesley Village offers five-star rated skilled nursing care and rehabilitation at their newly renovated Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center, award-winning assisted living at Crosby Commons, independent living cottages at Wesley Heights, and a community Wellness Center.

Part of United Methodist Homes, a local, faith-based, not-for-profit organization, we are truly a campus committed to our mission to provide relationship-centered care for the mind, body, and spirit. For more information about Wesley Village, please visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.


This post is taken from a press release from TEAM, Inc.

Art class for kids slated at Ansonia Library

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Library children’s department will offer an arts and crafts class for children ages 6-9 at 4 p.m. Oct. 28.

This program is free. The library is at 53 S. Cliff St.

For more information call the Ansonia Library children’s department, 203-734-6728.

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

Seymour Rec offers crafts, Zumba

SEYMOUR - The Recreation Department will hold a Pre-School Crafts program for ages 2-5 from 9:30-10:15 a.m. Tuesdays from Sept. 24 to Oct. 29 at the Seymour Community Center, 20 Pine St.

Come and be creative and make some fun projects.

The cost is $25 for six weeks.

The program is open to all Valley residents (parent must assist child).

Sports mania

Pre-school Sports Mania for ages 2-5 will be held 9:30-10:15 a.m. Wednesdays from Sept. 25 to Oct. 30, or Thursdays from Sept. 26 to Oct. 31.

Sports and games geared for younger children will be played.

Cost is $25 for six weeks.

Open to all Valley residents (parent must stay in gym).

Evening Zumba classes

Zumba classes will be held 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays from Oct. 7 to Nov. 25. The first class is free.

The classes will be held in the Seymour Community Center gym for October and Bungay School gym for November.

The cost is $40 any six classes; $70 all 13 classes. The classes are open to all Valley residents.


This is taken from a press release from the recreation department.