Arts council prez to teach Mommy & Me water color classes in Ansonia

Seymour Public Library to host Celtic Chocolate program

SEYMOUR - Seymour Public Library will host chocolatier and teacher Kim Larkin of Klassic Kreations at 6:30 p.m. March 3. 

Larkin will discuss the contribution of Irish chocolate makers to North America’s burgeoning chocolate industry.
Along with Irish chocolate the program will be highlighting Irish lore, poetry, and culture. Samples of beautiful Celtic art chocolates, Dublin tea, and Irish bread will be available. 

Registration is required. For more information or to register call the Library, 203-888-3903. The Library is at 46 Church St.

Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce promotes 'Leap of Kindness Day'

What are you going to do with your extra day tomorrow?
Your Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce has joined with other Chambers of Commerce across the country to mark #LeapofKindnessDay.

Leap of Kindness Day only happens once every four years on Feb. 29.
The idea is to get as many people as possible in #ValleyCT to use the extra day we all get in a Leap Year to do something kind for someone else.
So, what will you do with your extra day?

Shared from the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Colonial spinning skills session slated at Humphreys House in Ansonia

The Derby Historical Society is a regional historical society dedicated to preserving, maintaining, and celebrating the rich and varied history of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. 

The Derby Historical Society welcomes all visitors and is also available to support researchers, school or other program needs. Staff offices are located at the Sarah Riggs Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., Ansonia.  
For more information, visit www.derbyhistorical.org 

This is a press release from Daniel L. Bosques, Executive Director, Derby Historical Society.  

Learn budgeting in 2 sessions at Ansonia Library

Shelton Clean Sweep 2020 slated in April at Shelton Lakes

SHELTON - The Shelton Lakes Litter Cleanup will be held from 10 a.m.-noon April 25.

Volunteers will meet and sign in at the Shelton Avenue power line crossing located between Nells Rock Road and Pine Street (in Google Maps enter "8v5g+96 Shelton, CT" for the exact location).
Bags and gloves are provided.
From the meeting location, participants have the option to pick up along Shelton Avenue or the nearby trail network, or move to other locations at Shelton Lakes such as Hope Lake or Pine Lake. Groups with children should focus on the trails.

The cleanup is hosted by the Litter Committee and it qualifies for high school community service.
No preregistration is required. If you have questions email conservation@cityofshelton.org.


Shared from a Facebook event page.

Contest at Zois Pizza in Seymour to benefit pancreatic cancer research

Save the date!

Zois Pizza is at 48 Main St., Seymour. 

Sharing from the Project Purple Facebook page:

"Come and join us for our 5th Annual My Big Fat Greek Style Pizza Eating Contest on June 6th at 11AM. Proceeds go to benefiting pancreatic cancer research and patient aid.
"Teams of two will compete in a relay race format to see who can eat a Greek style pizza first (size varies on division). Teams must work together to fundraiser $300 for the event's official charity partner, Project Purple."

Divisions:
• Women's Amateur - Prize Money $200, $350, $750
• Men's Amateur - Prize Money $200, $350. $750
• First Responders - Prize Money $200, $350, $750
• Pro - Prize Money $500, $1000, $2000

*Professional eaters are only allowed to compete in the Pro Division*

Fundraising:
• Women's Amateur - $300
• Men's Amateur - $300
• First Responders - $300
• Pro - $200

Fundraising Ends 5/31/2020

Rules:
1. Each entrant must be 18 years or older to participate.
2. Teams are made up of 2 participants, no exceptions.
3. Teams must fundraise a minimum to compete (see minimums for each division listed above).
4. Throwing up will disqualify you immediately.
5. Pizza will be served at room temperature.
6. Water will be provided by Zois at the beginning of the contest.
7. Participants must sign a waiver upon acceptance into the contest.

Register your team online today at: https://raceroster.com/events/2020/29695/my-big-fat-greek-style-pizza-eating-contest

TEAM, Inc. offers area residents help paying heating bills

From TEAM's Facebook page: 
"If you have not applied for energy assistance yet, email energy@teaminc.org or call us at 203-736-5420. You have until May 1 to apply."

Enjoy a movie, Irish music, more in March at Derby Neck Library

The Kerry Boys will perform March 21 at Derby Neck Library.

Dinner and a Movie
DERBY - Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave., hosts Dinner and a Movie for ages 18 and older at 5:30 p.m. March 5.  

This month’s feature film is “Knives Out” shown in blu-ray on a large screen. Free movie refreshments are served, including a pizza dinner at intermission.  

Women's Forum

At 12:30 p.m. March 16 the Library hosts Women’s Forum, a literary discussion group focusing on short stories.  
This month’s selections are “Departure from Normal” and “Toda’s Special” both by Elizabeth Berg. Copies are available at the library.  
Feel free to bring a light lunch. Coffee and tea are served.  

Irish music performance

The Library presents a free concert of Irish music by the Kerry Boys, a talented, entertaining duo of balladeers at 2 p.m. March 21. This program is suitable for all ages. Light refreshments will be served. 

Evening Book Club
At 6:30 p.m. March 30 the Library hosts the Evening Book Club. This month’s selection is “A Month in the Country” by J.L. Carr.  

Copies of the book are available at the library.  

For details on any program call 203-734-1492.

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

Christ Episcopal Church in Ansonia to host Basket Bingo Bash

Ansonia slates kindergarten registration, Family Fun Fair in March

Ansonia, MLK Brotherhood Awards Committee to mark Black History Month

Use 40 days of Lent to set aside donations for My Sister's Place in Ansonia

Sharing from My Sister's Place Facebook page: "Please think of My Sister's Place in Ansonia-helping families of domestic violence."

The thrift store is located at 380 Main St., Ansonia. Purchases support BHcare's The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services. 
Each year, the Umbrella Center provides 24/7 counseling and support, safe shelter, and so much more for more than 6,000 victims and their children.

Recuperation journey: Seen through the window

Lucky captures! He posed for about two minutes for me.

YA Wednesdays on tap in March at Derby Public Library

DERBY - Derby Public Library invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to join the fun of YA Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. during March.
Sony Play Station Four (PS4), Nintendo Wii, board games, and Legos will be available. 

Light refreshments will be provided. 

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


This is a press release from Tony DeLos, young adult librarian, Derby Public Library. 

Master's Table to serve meal March 8 at Assumption Church hall in Ansonia

Master's Table President James Fedak said in an email: "Please take notice that there is only one meal scheduled for March."

Dates available for class trips to Humphreys House in Ansonia

A Day in 1762 - Celebrating 39 Years



Only NINE available dates left for April and May of 2020

The Derby Historical Society is currently booking class field trips for our 39th season of "A Day in 1762". Are you a teacher looking for the most fun and culturally enriching field trip in Connecticut? Look no further - we would
like to book your date for a field trip to the General David Humphreys House located at 37 Elm St. in Ansonia.

New to 2020, is a video experience titled “Lt. Colonel Humphreys… In His Words.” 

This new and exciting DVD will be offered to all of the visiting schools as supplemental curriculum at no additional cost! The video is a fast forward to 20-years later in 1782 detailing events that led to Humphreys becoming aide-de-camp to General Washington. 

A free DVD will be given for teachers to share with their class after visiting "A Day in 1762".

Available dates are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Classes are filling up quickly, and we don't want your students to miss out on this wonderful learning experience!

Thank you for your support!

 

 

Plumb Memorial Library in Shelton to mark children's department reopening

Sharing from the Shelton Library System Facebook page:

SHELTON - The public is invited to the grand re-opening of the children's department at Plumb Memorial Library, 65 Wooster St.

The celebration will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 14. It will be a great day of reading, food, crafts, and fun!

The Jolly Beggars to perform in cabaret at Center Stage in Shelton

Nominations sought for Seymour High School Alumnus Award

SEYMOUR - Seymour High School officials are seeking nominations for the Distinguished Seymour High School Alumnus Award. 
Criteria for the award are as follows:

1. Be a Seymour High School graduate.
2. Be out of high school twenty (20) years or more.
3. Distinguished himself/herself as a contributing member of the community/society. Make sure to include all community involvement/volunteer experience
4. Attend and accept the award at the June graduation ceremony.

Nominations are to be forwarded to the following individual by March 9:

Seymour High School
c/o Sarah LeBlanc
2 Botsford Road
Seymour, CT 06483
Fax: (203) 888-7115

Dinner at Emmett O'Brien Tech in Ansonia to benefit first responders

Water color workshops slated at Valley Arts Council's gallery in Ansonia

Recuperation journey: Monday sunset

View from the backyard. 

Ansonia Middle School to celebrate Black History Month

Valley Arts Council to hold exhibit at Safari Kaffein Fix cafe in Ansonia

Monday Funday: Valley mystery photo

Where in the Lower Naugatuck Valley is this interesting sculpture located? 
If you know, please leave your answer in the comments.
Happy Monday! 

Recuperation journey: Sunday afternoon at Pickett's Pond

It sure didn't feel like Feb. 23 at Osbornedale State Park in Derby. The temperature was in the mid-50s.

Enjoy the rest of the day. These two look like they will!

St. Mary-St. Michael School in Derby to honor alums, friends at gala

DERBY – St. Mary-St. Michael Elementary School will honor 10 school alumni and friends for their service to the school and their community at its upcoming “Light, Camera, Auction” Gala.

Thomas and Diane Baklik, Raymond and Lori Veillette, Glenn Gaetano, Charlie and Carmen DiCenso, Walter and Janis Yakimovich, and Christine DeCrisanti will receive awards at the Gala March 21 from 6-11 p.m. at Great River Golf Club in Milford.

The Bakliks and the Veillettes will receive the Guardian Angel Award which is given to individuals who have made an impact through service in their community, or for other humanitarian efforts that reflect the mission of St. Mary-St. Michael School.

Gaetano and the DiCensos will receive the Spirit of St. Mary-St. Michael School Award, which is given to alumni who have made a significant positive impact in their field or profession in the community in which they reside.

DeCrisanti and the Yakimovichs will receive the Christian Compassion Award, which is given to individuals or groups who have served the community and school in countless ways, embodying the spirit of generosity, kindness, and goodwill.

Tickets are $80 per person with tables of 12 available for $850. 

The event will feature a cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres, dinner, a live and silent auction for many unique items, live music by Acoustic Brew, and dancing.

Event sponsorship opportunities are available as well as space in the event program book for advertisements, congratulatory, and in memoriam messages. 

Contact Principal Grace Torres at gtorres@stmarystmichael.org or 203-735-6471 for reservations and sponsorship information.

Proceeds from the Gala will benefit current educational initiatives and enrichment programs for the school. 

For more information about St. Mary-St. Michael School, visit stmarystmichael.org.

This is a press release from the school.

Learn about maple sugaring at Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center

ANSONIA - A very long time ago, the native people of the northeastern part of our country shared their sweet tree know-how with the newcomers from Europe.

Ansonia Nature Center Ranger Dawn and Director Alison present an introduction to making maple syrup the old-fashioned way at 11 a.m. March 7.
They will help participants to choose just the right tree for tapping into this sweet treat.
Fee is $6 per person. Please call 203-736-1053 to register. The nature center is at 10 Deerfield Road.
This is a family program; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Ansonia boy, 4, in NYC battling cancer loves to get mail

Roman poses with Ronald McDonald.

Sharing a post from Roman's aunt, Sara German Aylward:

Ansonia resident Roman Santiago, 4, son of Kellie German Santiago, is in New York City for treatment and is loving staying at the Ronald McDonald House! 

His big obsession: checking the mail. So if anyone wants to send him a little note, he would love to find your letter in the mailbox! He'll be there until March 12 (as of right now).

Roman Santiago, Room 402
Ronald McDonald House New York
405 E. 73rd St.
New York, NY 10021

Thanks in advance!

BHcare seeks bowlers, sponsors for 32nd Bowl-2-Benefit in East Haven

EAST HAVEN - BHcare’s 32^nd Annual Bowl-2-Benefit The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services will be held March 7 at AMF Circles. 
All proceeds benefit UCDVS which provides services to over 7,700 victims of domestic violence and their children each year throughout Greater New Haven and the Lower Naugatuck Valley. 

UCDVS provides emergency safe shelter, 24-hour crisis services, counseling, court advocacy, support and other crucial services.

In 1988, we held our first B2B event and 32 years later, B2B is the largest event of its kind in the area! 
Year after year, we continue to raise awareness and funds for domestic violence services. And in 2020, we Bowl BACK-2-the-80s! That means we're bowling to the best 80s tunes and encourage you to come dressed in your awesomely 80s attire. Join us for family-friendly fun, raffle prizes, and a Blast from the Past Photobooth sponsored by Yale New Haven Health.

You can register today at B2B.BHCARE.ORG.

Bowlers of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate in teams of 4-5, in one of five bowling sessions scheduled for 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Bowlers pay a minimal $10 registration fee and are asked to collect pledges to support their efforts. Each bowler will receive 90 minutes of bowling, event giveaway, shoe rental, and soft drinks. 
The event is ideal for clubs, schools, organizations, corporations, and families. 

B2B offers sponsorship opportunities for all budgets, with levels starting at just $100. Sponsors reap the benefit of exposure to the more than 1,000 participants as well as additional exposure online.

The 32^nd B2B is sponsored by the Bassett Family Fund, The Candid Group, Milford Vascular Institute, Shoreline Pharmacy Rx, Yale New Haven Health, Valley Community Foundation, VNA Community Healthcare & Hospice, Gulish & Associates, Guilford Rotary Club, Guilford Savings Bank, Tomasella, Schlitter, & Burrell, P.C., Derby-Shelton Rotary Club, Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, 4Imprint, Eye Center of Southern Connecticut, Subway, Underwater Construction Corp., Jamie Cohen, WPLR 99.1-FM, Star 99.9-FM. and Zip06. 

For more information about domestic violence services, call 203-446-9739 x1856 or visit www.bhcare.org.  
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, please call our 24-hour domestic violence hotline 1-888-774-2900.

BHcare is a regional community provider of behavioral health, addiction prevention, and domestic violence services for the Lower Naugatuck Valley, Greater New Haven and Shoreline communities. 
For more information, visit www.bhcare.org.

This is a press release from BHcare.

Rochelle to testify at Waterbury Rail Line public hearing in Hartford

State Rep. Kara Rochelle

HARTFORD - State Rep. Kara Rochelle, D-Ansonia/Derby announced Friday the legislature’s Transportation Committee will hold a public hearing Monday, Feb. 24 on legislation she and members of the Waterbury Rail Line Caucus introduced to study rail infrastructure issues and improve service.

“The Waterbury Train Line has a huge economic impact on the people of Ansonia and Derby even if they do not ride the trains. Increased service brings about transit-oriented development and increases property value, both of which grow the grand list and increase the potential that local city leaders could

lower local property taxes. Trains mean development, larger grand lists, lower taxes, and more jobs if we all work together to make it happen,” said Rochelle. “While I am encouraged that the Department of Transportation recently sent out an RFI for leasing trains for mid-2022, when the passing

sidings and positive train control currently being created are completed for our tracks, we need our new,

permanent trains ordered, stations updated, and other rail line resources to ensure that our district and our region can reach the next stage of its revitalization. I’ve fought hard for this issue and will continue to fight as it is so critical for the lives and wallets of all residents.”

Rochelle plans to testify during the public hearing and has reached out to Ansonia and Derby mayors, President and CEO of the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce Bill Purcell, Griffin Hospital President and CEO Patrick Charmel, President and CEO of TEAM Inc. David Morgan, Chairman of the Connecticut Commuter Rail Association Jim Gildea, and other community stakeholders inviting them to submit testimony or join her in Hartford.

The public hearing will begin at 11 a.m. in Room 1E of the Legislative Office Building. 
Residents can submit testimony via email to TRAtestimony@cga.ct.gov. 
Those who wish to testify in-person are asked to submit 55 copies of their written testimony to Committee staff in Room 2300 of the LOB during the speaker sign up, which will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. 
Speaker order will be determined by a lottery system. Interested individuals can find more information about testifying during public hearings on the Connecticut General Assembly web site here.
This is the second time Rochelle will testify on this issue. 
During the 2019 legislative session, Rochelle testified before the Transportation Committee in support of similar legislation.

Prior to the public hearing, the Waterbury Rail Line Caucus will hold a press conference at 10 a.m. Monday in Room 1B. 
Members will discuss their proposal, which seeks to modernize rail transit in Naugatuck Valley and address congestion on state highways.

This is a press release from Rochelle's office.

Seymour Lions Club to hold Dining for a Cause at Pub 67

Valley Arts Council to hold 'Art on the Ledge' exhibit at Beacon Falls Library

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host Q&A about medications with pharmacists

The Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital in Derby will host a Q&A with pharmacists March 4./ Contributed photo

DERBY - The Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital invites the community to bring their medication questions to Griffin’s expert pharmacists March 4 from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the hospital.

Griffin Health Director of Pharmacy Services Lisa Jaser, Pharm D, and other members of the Griffin Pharmacy staff will lead a casual Q&A for any and all medication questions.

Medication errors injure hundreds of thousands of people every year in the United States. However, most medication errors can be prevented with open communication between the pharmacist and patient as well as the patient’s caregivers. 
Important information individuals should ask their pharmacist includes the name of the medication, what it is supposed to do, how to take or use the medication, what to do if a dose is missed, and what activities, foods, or other medications to avoid while taking the medication.

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

To register or for more information, call Kerry or Deborah at 203-732-7399. The hospital is at 130 Division St.

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.

Recuperation journey: Thursday sunset

My backyard view at 5:25 p.m.

Valley Arts Council presents Shoe Box Theater at gallery in Ansonia

Logan, Klarides-Ditria to meet constituents at Beacon Falls Pizza Palace

Learn Colonial spinning at David Humphreys House in Ansonia

Ansonia High School Unified Sports basketball team wins plaudits

Sharing from Ansonia Public Schools' Facebook page:

"Great day yesterday afternoon at Ansonia High School. The AHS Unified Sports team, with Coach Kelly Matute, played their annual basketball game vs. Oxford High. 
"We are so proud of our students who participated. We would like to thank all our students, staff and families who came out to support our team! Great job by all."

Recuperation journey: February flashback

This photo came up in my Facebook memories today from Feb. 20, 2016.

I'll call this one "Hierarchy."

Fundraiser for CT Hurricanes slated at Strand Theater in Seymour

Wesley Heights residents in Shelton learn about food, beverage pairing

From left: Toni Gaites, Chef Richard Scaife, and Rebecca Montreuil designed the event, made the food, and created the pairings./ Contributed photo

SHELTON- Chef Richard Scaife and the dining team at Wesley Heights created what they called a “decadent experience of food and beverage pairing” for residents of the community. 

Residents enjoyed wine and beer samplings coupled with suggested food pairings. 

The culinary team worked together with local liquor store owner Linda Borgia from Linda’s Wine & Liquors on Bridgeport Avenue, a friend and sommelier Christian Carrone, and researched recommended pairings, such as serving a German Pilsner with a cranberry, cinnamon, and goat cheese roll. 

“There is no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with chocolate and wine,” Scaife said. “But in true Wesley Village style, we wanted to bring something extra special to our residents and share an experience to remember.”

Other combinations included a Dill Havarti cheese with a Beaujolais, Smoked Gouda with a Bourbon Barrel Aged Chardonnay, and everyone’s favorite, Rose’ champagne with hand-dipped chocolate covered strawberries.

Cook supervisor Rebecca Montreuil and Sous Chef Toni Gaites, worked alongside Chef Scaife to create the food and appropriate sampling displays.

The Thomas Hooker Chocolate Truffle Stout, which is brewed with locally made Munson’s Chocolate, was paired with chocolate covered bacon, a sweet madeira wine was served to complement the chocolate mousse cups, and a Bourbon Aged Cabernet was served with a sharp cheddar cheese.  
The residents were invited to enjoy a bubbling chocolate fountain with fruit, pretzels, and other dippables.

“It was wonderful,” said resident Pat Baker. “They had quite a selection, bacon with chocolate was different but good.”

It seems the chocolate-covered bacon garnered the most attention at the event.  

Fellow resident Nancy Lenoce was impressed by the overall elegance and delicious samplings, but definitely found the chocolate covered bacon “too good to be true!” 

The Wine & Chocolate Extravaganza was held in the dining room at Wesley Heights. 
Wesley Heights is part of the Wesley Village senior living campus at 580 Long Hill Ave. It is part of United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization. 

The campus offers assisted and independent living, memory support, skilled nursing, short-term rehab, and outpatient therapy and fitness services. 
To learn more, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.  


This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.