Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Bishop Wicke rehabilitation facility in Shelton wins recognition
SHELTON - Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center on the Wesley Village senior living campus was named a Top Performing facility in U.S. News & World Report’s 2018-19 Best Nursing Homes ratings.
The information is available exclusively at http://www.usnews.com/best-nursing-homes.
For the first time this year, U.S. News is giving facilities two ratings - one for the overall quality of the home, and the other a new “short-stay rehab rating.”
The ratings were based on U.S News & World Report’s in-depth analysis of data from the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, including data not factored into CMS’s star ratings.
Only 19 percent of U.S. nursing homes earned at least one badge; some, including Bishop Wicke, earned both.
Bishop Wicke offers short-term rehab and skilled nursing care, including specialized programs for surgical recovery, orthopedics, cardiac and respiratory rehab, heart failure, and more.
The facility is located on the Wesley Village Campus, 584 Long Hill Ave. and is owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, a local, not-for-profit organization.
For more information about relationship-centered care at Bishop Wicke, please visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or call 203-929-5321.
Recuperation journey: Muted autumn colors found
Found some color today at Osbornedale State Park in Derby. Overall this fall has been disappointing for foliage fans!
Ansonia to sell pieces of trolley track to support beautification projects
*Information shared from the City of Ansonia Facebook page.
Recuperation journey: Looking at the morning sky
Today's moon is in a Waning Gibbous phase, 52 percent illumination.
Have a Happy Halloween!
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Derby official collecting used Halloween costumes for needy city children
This is a message from Derby Town/City Clerk Marc Garofalo:
The Derby Town/City Clerk’s Office will be collecting slightly used Halloween costumes for use next year by city children.
Every year parents spend a lot of money on costumes that are worn only once. Unfortunately, there are a number of families that can’t afford a new costume.
This project will help those in need for next year.
Costumes can be brought to the Town/City Clerk’s Office, 1 Elizabeth St., during business hours - Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Please spread the word to friends and family to promote recycling and helping our neighbors.
Thanks to Derby teacher Jenny Ames for the great tradition that we started last year!
'Turnback Tuesday' features 'A Poison Fiend' in Derby
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| Lydia Sherman |
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| Dr. Beardsley |
Lydia's story starts out normal enough, married at 17 and within seven years has six children. This is when her wild ways begin. Her husband loses his job and falls into depression, but instead of having him committed, Lydia poisons him - followed by her three youngest children. The other three die later.
Moving herself to Connecticut working as a nurse, she meets her second husband/victim, Dennis Hurlburt.
Hurlburt changed his will, leaving everything to his bride. He took very ill and the doctors could not help.
Lydia then became housekeeper for Horatio Sherman in Derby and took care of his two children. They married within a few months. Not long after child #1 died, then child #2, then Horatio himself.
It was the suspicions of Dr. Beardsley, a local physician, who helped the police arrest Lydia in June of 1871.
She was convicted of second degree murder in New Haven and sentenced to life in prison. She died May 16, 1878.
Thanks as always to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.
Salon owner donates $300 to Seymour Pink
Giardini presented a check today to Mary Deming, founder of Seymour Pink, a community's fight against breast cancer. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Monday, October 29, 2018
Shelton business designs new logo for Commodore Hull 5K race
From the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley Facebook page:
"New shirt design for the Thanksgiving Day Commodore Hull 5k!
"Thank you to Peralta Design of Shelton, creative genius behind the new logo. Shirts will once again be long sleeve Tek material. Let us know what you think, we'd love to hear!"
Recuperation journey: Lucky capture day
I came out of CVS in Derby this afternoon to find a partial rainbow.
Ansonia Animal Shelter asks blanket donations for dogs
ANSONIA - The Ansonia Animal Shelter, 2 N. Division St., needs donations of blankets for the dogs; no sheets please.
Blankets may be dropped off at the Police Department, 2 Elm St., at any time, or at the Ansonia Animal Shelter before 2:30 p.m. weekdays.
Blankets may be dropped off at the Police Department, 2 Elm St., at any time, or at the Ansonia Animal Shelter before 2:30 p.m. weekdays.
Derby Historical Society to demonstrate open hearth cooking
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| The Keeping Room at the Humphreys House. |
Docents will prepare 18th Century seasonal favorites over an open hearth.
Enjoy a sample of these items and some modern day tastings with a cup of mulled cider.
Stay for a tour of the house; the gift shop will also be open.
Suggested donation is $5.
Parking is available behind the house or on nearby Thomas Street.
Enjoy a sample of these items and some modern day tastings with a cup of mulled cider.
Stay for a tour of the house; the gift shop will also be open.
Suggested donation is $5.
Parking is available behind the house or on nearby Thomas Street.
This is a press release from the Derby Historical Society.
Recuperation journey: Looking at the morning sky
The waning gibbous moon is 75 percent visible.
Next full moon is on Nov. 22, Thanksgiving Day.
Sunday, October 28, 2018
Recuperation journey: Sharing a memory
This photo just appeared today in my Facebook memories. It's one of my very favorites and has a place of honor in our home.
Sunday fun: Valley mystery photo
Where in the Lower Naugatuck Valley did yours truly take this photo?
If you think you know, leave your answer in the comments!
Saturday, October 27, 2018
Middle school students collecting food at Ansonia Nature Center
ANSONIA - The Charger Club After School students from Ansonia Middle School have teamed with the Valley United Way to collect canned and non-perishable goods.
The drive will continue until Nov. 19 at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road.
Each student has placed a message of love and encouragement on each hand of hope (pictured above).
*Information shared from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center Facebook page.
Shelton Historical Society cancels today's cemetery tour
Sharing message from Tracey Tate, executive director, Shelton Historical Society:
"Due to today's weather, the walking tour of Long Hill Burying Ground is canceled for today. Weather permitting, we'll try to hold it tomorrow [Sunday] at 1:00 but will confirm on the Shelton Historical Society's Facebook page."
Friday, October 26, 2018
Recuperation journey: Flashback Friday fall foliage foto
I'm glad I took photos last October of autumn's brilliant colors. This is in Ansonia.
Derby Neck Library to host author visit, cooking club, more
Women's Forum
DERBY - Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave. will host Women’s Forum at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 19.
This month members enjoy a presentation of Ginny, a rescued racing greyhound dog, by her owner Miss Barbara. You may wish to bring a light lunch; the library will serve free tea and coffee.
Author visit
The Library presents author Marty Podskoch, discussing his new book,“The Connecticut 169 Club: Exploring CT’s 169 Towns” at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 19.
The book highlights the best each municipality and village has to offer for the interested traveler.
The author will show a powerpoint presentation explaining his fascinating trip around our state. Copies of his book will be available for sale and signing.
The book highlights the best each municipality and village has to offer for the interested traveler.
The author will show a powerpoint presentation explaining his fascinating trip around our state. Copies of his book will be available for sale and signing.
Evening Book Club
At 6:30 p.m. Nov. 26 the Library hosts the Evening Book Club.
This month’s selection is “Woman in the Dark”, a mystery by the famed author Dashiell Hammett.
Copies of the book are available at the library, including some large print editions.
Cooking club
At 6 p.m. Nov. 28 the Library hosts Friends, Food, and Books, a monthly club that celebrates cooking and a shared meal experience. Each meeting focuses on a different type of cuisine.
This is a press release from Pat Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.
This month’s selection is “Woman in the Dark”, a mystery by the famed author Dashiell Hammett.
Copies of the book are available at the library, including some large print editions.
Cooking club
At 6 p.m. Nov. 28 the Library hosts Friends, Food, and Books, a monthly club that celebrates cooking and a shared meal experience. Each meeting focuses on a different type of cuisine.
This is a press release from Pat Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Recuperation journey: I went, I saw, I dug
The second annual Diamond Dig at Marks of Design in Shelton Thursday was a lot of fun.
With all of the proceeds going to The Valley Goes Pink how could I not donate $40 to get a bucket and dig for a 1.04 carat diamond?
I may not have found it, but I did capture quite a few colorful gemstones hidden in the sand that can be turned into pieces of jewelry.
The Valley Goes Pink is Griffin Hospital's grassroots initiative to raise awareness about breast health and support for the Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness in Derby.
Goldsmith Kate Marks, owner, Marks of Design, strikes a pose at the sand-filled trough where gemstones and the diamond were hidden.
Last year's Diamond Dig raised $10,000 for The Valley Goes Pink, Marks said.
I hope there's a third annual Diamond Dig; I'll be there.
With all of the proceeds going to The Valley Goes Pink how could I not donate $40 to get a bucket and dig for a 1.04 carat diamond?
I may not have found it, but I did capture quite a few colorful gemstones hidden in the sand that can be turned into pieces of jewelry.
The Valley Goes Pink is Griffin Hospital's grassroots initiative to raise awareness about breast health and support for the Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness in Derby.
Goldsmith Kate Marks, owner, Marks of Design, strikes a pose at the sand-filled trough where gemstones and the diamond were hidden.
Last year's Diamond Dig raised $10,000 for The Valley Goes Pink, Marks said.
I hope there's a third annual Diamond Dig; I'll be there.
Derby Public Library book drop relocated
From the Library's Facebook page:
"Derby Public Library's Book Drop has been moved to the Elizabeth Street side entrance. Thank you for your cooperation."
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Trunk or Treat at Seymour Middle School moved to Sunday
Our annual Seymour Trunk or Treat Halloween Event has been moved to Sunday October 28th due to the forecast of wet weather for Saturday.
Set-up times are between 5 and 6 pm (come earlier of you like) The event is from 6 pm to 8 pm. See our flyers for event details.
We hope people can still join us for this great fun family event!
Please feel free to contact Rich Kearns at 203-888-2561 ext. 1003 if anyone needs additional information.
Ansonia resident collecting food to help needy neighbors
ANSONIA - Resident Noreen DeCiucis is collecting donations of food and funds to help the less fortunate in our community this holiday season.
She told me it's the ninth annual drive she has held, but I had not heard of it before. It's a wonderful effort and one that we all should support.
She posted Tuesday on Facebook:
"Hi friends.
As you know we are celebrating our 9th annual Thanksgiving food drive and need your help.
We run by donations only and are in desperate need of Turkeys!
If you could find it in your heart to donate please let me know.
There is no better feeling than sitting down at your Thanksgiving table, knowing you fed another family their dinner too."
Performance to benefit Bridges Healthcare, Milford Prevention Council
The event will be catered by Lasse's Restaurant and beverages will be available. There will also be a raffle with prizes donated by various Connecticut businesses.
Passing Strange will be performing a set of their original music - CDs and shirts will be available for purchase. All ages are encouraged to attend.
ABOUT PASSING STRANGE: Anthony Paolucci and Kate Mirabella formed as an original indie band in April 2017. The duo has recorded two albums, proceeds from the first, "The Water & the Woods," being donated to "To Write Love on Her Arms."
In July of 2018, Passing Strange released their second album, "Come Whatever Storms." Both albums will be on hand for sale at the event.
Band Site: https://anthonypaolucci.wixsite.com/passingstrange
ABOUT BRIDGES HEALTHCARE: Since 1957, Bridges' mental health and addiction recovery programs and services have helped adults, children and families move toward healing, recovery and renewal.
Bridges is unique in its ability to offer care and treatment for the whole family, children and adults, in the same location, which can make it easier to access services and afford better outcomes for all.
As the state-designated Local Mental Health Authority for Milford, Orange, and West Haven, Bridges offers recovery-focused services to support individuals with severe and prolonged mental illness and addiction problems. They also offer help to those who are dealing with short-term emotional and behavioral issues that come about due to the challenges and stresses of everyday life.
Their team consists of experienced behavioral health and primary care professionals who are dedicated to providing high quality care to some of our most vulnerable citizens.
To learn more about Bridges visit https://www.bridgesct.org
ABOUT MILFORD PREVENTION COUNCIL: MPC helps the community understand the risks of substance use and make healthy choices. Businesses, civic leaders and citizens from across Milford contribute to their success.
To learn more about Milford Prevention Council: http://milfordprevention.org/
*Information shared from a Facebook event page.
Seymour Police to take part in No Shave November fundraiser
On Monday the Ansonia Police Department announced it would be participating in No Shave November to benefit the Connecticut Cancer Foundation.
Now Seymour officers have joined the fun for a good cause.
Shared from Seymour PD Facebook page:
Officers from the Seymour Police Department will be participating in our first “No-Shave November.”
No-Shave November is a month-long journey during which officers will forgo shaving and grooming in order to evoke conversation and raise cancer awareness.
The Seymour Police Department has partnered with the Connecticut Cancer Foundation and all money raised will go to Connecticut families of cancer patients. Last year the Connecticut Cancer Foundation provided financial and social support to more than 500 Connecticut cancer patients and their families along with providing over $125,000 to cancer research. Anyone interested in making a donation to sponsor the Seymour Police Department can do so by clicking on the link below.
The Seymour Police Department has partnered with the Connecticut Cancer Foundation and all money raised will go to Connecticut families of cancer patients. Last year the Connecticut Cancer Foundation provided financial and social support to more than 500 Connecticut cancer patients and their families along with providing over $125,000 to cancer research. Anyone interested in making a donation to sponsor the Seymour Police Department can do so by clicking on the link below.
We thank you for your support for this great foundation!
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
'Turnback Tuesday' features store advertisement for Derby confectionery
"Turnback Tuesday" remembers another old downtown business in Derby, the Ryan Brothers Confections & Ice Cream, established by John Ryan in 1910 at 40 Sixth St.
John was a policeman as well as a business owner. In 1911, he was joined by his brother Edward and they located at 54 Elizabeth St.
Then in 1912, John went back to being solely a policeman while Edward moved to Naugatuck. At this point, the business was taken over by William Ryan (relationship unknown), but unfortunately the business stopped in 1913. This beautiful fan was used as part of their advertising.
A big thanks to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.