Derby Dems silent on inaugural tax board member

By Phyllis Swebilius
Register Staff
DERBY — The question over which Butler will take a seat on the tax board today remained open, even after the inauguration program was printed.
The souvenir book lists James J. Butler, son of James R., as a newly elected member of the Board of Apportionment and Taxation.
It’s James R. Butler who wants to serve on the tax board, but the name of his son, James J., appeared on the ballot in November.
His father has said James J. has no interest in politics.

Read the full story here.

Work progressing on Derby site for Tracy's Garage and A Quick Pick Crane Service

By Phyllis Swebilius
Register Staff
DERBY — Work is progressing on a new site for two companies on Water Street.
A tenant has moved into a facility owned by Mike Tracz, proprietor of Tracy’s Garage, and the first of two buildings for A Quick Pick Crane Service, is going up.


Read the full story here.

Derby seeks donations for servicemen's fund

DERBY - Mayor Tony Staffieri, in conjunction with the Catholic War Veterans St. Michael’s Post 1562,  is again reaching out to the Derby community to seek monetary contributions for local men and women serving in the military at home or overseas.
    The contributions serve as a Christmas gift from the community. 
    “I realize these are tough financial times for all of us and to ask for donations is difficult.” he said. “Though difficult, I believe sending our brave young men and women, who are protecting of freedoms and our way of life, a small, unexpected check offering our appreciation during this holiday season is worth the sacrifice.”
    Last year, Derby citizens contributed $1,150 to the fund and six service people were sent gifts of appreciation.
    Donations may be sent to Mayor Anthony Staffieri, Servicemen and Women’s Fund, Derby City Hall, 1 Elizabeth St., Derby,  06418, attn: Barbara Charlonis
    Checks should be made out to Derby Servicemen and Women’s Fund.
    Names of Derby servicemen and servicewomen serving either at home or overseas may be sent to the above address.
    For information call 203-736-1450.

Plaque thieves strike Ansonia war memorial, making it 3rd Valley town hit

This monument near the Commodore Hull Bridge at the corner of Howe Avenue and Kneen Street in Shelton was stripped of a copper plaque. Patricia Villers/Register

By Patricia Villers
Register Staff
ANSONIA — A third Valley town reports the theft of veterans’ memorial plaques.
City police said two copper and brass plaques were taken from the Woodbridge Avenue Honor Roll and War Memorial.
Three plaques were reported stolen in Derby earlier this week. In Shelton, a plaque dedicated to Commodore Isaac Hull was taken late last month from a site near the entrance to Route 8 north, The Valley Independent Sentinel reported Thursday.

Read the full story here.

Ansonia mayor takes oath to start 7th term; other city officials also sworn in (video)

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
ANSONIA — Longtime Mayor James T. Della Volpe officially embarked on his seventh term in office Thursday.
Della Volpe, 63, along with the newly elected members of the Board of Aldermen, Board of Education, town & city clerk, city treasurer and city sheriffs, took the oath of office during a swearing-in ceremony at City Hall.
Before a standing-room- only crowd, Della Volpe thanked the voters, and choking back tears, praised his wife, Jane, for “the sacrifices she has made in order for me to have the privilege of serving my hometown.”


Read the full story here.

Police, restaurant launch annual toy drive

    SHELTON - The Shelton Police Department has teamed with Outback Steakhouse of Shelton for an annual toy drive.
    People are asked to bring new, unwrapped toys to be distributed to local families in need.
    The toys can be dropped off at the Shelton Police Department, 85 Wheeler St., or Outback Steakhouse of Shelton, 698 Bridgeport Ave.
    All toys must be received by Dec. 21. Outback Steakhouse of Shelton is giving away a free appetizer or dessert to any customer who brings in a new, unwrapped toy to the restaurant by Dec. 21.
    Any questions related to the toy drive should be directed to Officer Kevin Sherman at (203) 924-1544 ext. 349.

OSHA cuts Seymour fines in half

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent
SEYMOUR — OSHA will reduce by half the amount of fines the town has to pay for several violations found earlier this year.
“OSHA has agreed to cut the fines by 50 percent to reflect a total of $2,555 owed,” First Selectman Paul Roy said in a written statement.

Read the full story here.