Ansonia cancels Memorial Day Parade

The Ansonia Cultural Commission is confirming the following:
"It is with great disappointment that due to the current pandemic situation along general health safety issues and state restrictions, that we will have to cancel this year's Ansonia Memorial Day Parade, that was originally scheduled for Sunday, May 24.
"We are in development of an alternative virtual program in lieu of the physical parade."

Echo Hose Ambulance in Shelton offering EMT/EMR refresher classes online

Sharing from Echo Hose Ambulance Facebook page:
"EMT/EMR Refresher Classes. 100% online for CT EMS Providers. Start and complete the program at your convenience. 
"Visit www.echohose.com to register."

Recuperation journey: Too quick!

I opened the front door and this guy was on a branch in the mulberry tree. 
By the time I ran to get the camera he had moved. And then he moved again. 
Too quick for me.


Photos taken through a glass door. Best I could do! 

Ansonia Police thank citizens, businesses for support during pandemic


Sharing today's post from the Ansonia Police Department Facebook page:

"As we continue to make our way through this health crisis there are still people who help to make things better. The Ansonia Police would like to thank more of our generous citizens and businesses.
Thank you to:
Massimino's Restaurant- Food
Copper City - Food
Dave Conti- Food
Denise Hunt- Food
Target Gift - Card for supplies
Richard Kaslaitis - Food
Lisa Nista and the volunteers at Griffin Hospital - Cloth Face masks.
Thank you once again for supporting us. Please be safe and healthy."

Chief Cota and the men and women of the Ansonia Police Department

Recuperation journey: Sharing a bright spot on a dreary day


I took this photo through the window Tuesday afternoon when the sun was shining. 

When will we see the sun again? More rainy weather today during this quarantine is not healthy for any of us. I'll do my best to fight the gloom. Stay safe all!

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Naugatuck Valley Health District: 6 more COVID-19 associated deaths

The district now has hit 1,021 cases and has sadly reported on 110 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 associated deaths since the first case was reported by NVHD in mid-March.
We are saddened to announce six laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 associated deaths, all residents of nursing homes within Seymour (1) and Shelton (5). 
We extend our sincerest condolences to the families and friends of those who have passed away due to COVID-19 complications.
The deaths reported to NVHD today occurred within the last week, not necessarily since the last NVHD report.
275 (~27%) of the 1,021 total confirmed cases among Valley residents are individuals who currently reside in a nursing home, assisted living facility, group home, or other similar setting.
99 (~36%) of the 275 individuals have passed away due to COVID-19 complications. Please scroll through the images for additional COVID-19 associated death data.
Please be advised that some towns have multiple facilities reporting COVID-19 cases. Cases are reported by the individual's permanent address, not the town of the facility in which they may be receiving treatment or recovering. This data is subject to change since some individuals may end up leaving a facility to recover at their homes or may become permanent residents of a facility.
NVHD has linked free mental health and wellness resources for individuals, families, and first responders who may be experiencing heightened anxiety, stress, and other emotions during this pandemic at www.nvhd.org/coping.
Statewide COVD-19 data is available at https://portal.ct.gov/coronavirus and is also linked on the NVHD website www.nvhd.org/covid19-data.
As a reminder, all data reported is preliminary and subject to change. Test results may be reported several days after the result. Patient information may be updated after results have already been reported. Changes will be reflected in the new daily totals.
NVHD receives data and confirmation reports from the following sources: CT Department of Public Health, Hospitals, Healthcare Providers, Laboratories, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Sometimes, the local health department receives reports before the State DPH and therefore the numbers reported by NVHD may differ from the daily report on the State of CT website.
CT residents with questions related to COVID-19 can call 2-1-1.

Recuperation journey: Camo bird


This mourning dove is almost camouflaged against the gray concrete on a gray day. Photo taken through a glass door.

Derby Historical Society to host Colonial still life Sketch 'n Sip online

Cultural Lecture Series

“Mother’s Flowers” a Colonial Still Life

Saturday, May 9, 2020, 5 p.m.


FREE Live Sketch ’n Sip with the Derby Historical Society! 

What better way to spend cocktail hour than to join us in the creation of your own still life? 

Artist Amie Ziner will teach you the history of the 18th-century Conté crayon and vine charcoal as she guides you in the creation of your own masterpiece.

Still-life setting provided on Facebook Live!


BYOB, a pad of paper, and your dry colored pastels (even crayons). 

Space for this special Mother's Day weekend event is UNLIMITED, so we hope to see you there! 

“Like” and “Follow” the Derby Historical Society on Facebook and tune in. 

Call 203-735-1908 or email info@derbyhistorical.org for information.


Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Recuperation journey: Looking at the evening sky


The moon today is in waxing crescent phase, 26 percent illumination.

Naugatuck Valley Health District: 6 more COVID-19 associated deaths

Since our last update on Monday, April 26, Naugatuck Valley Health District has received 11 new reports of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases across the Valley, bringing the district’s total to 989 cases.
261 (~26%) of the 989 confirmed cases among Valley residents, are individuals who currently reside in a nursing home, assisted living facility, group home, or other similar setting. Please be advised that some towns have multiple facilities reporting COVID-19 cases.
93 (~35%) of the 261 individuals have passed away due to COVID-19 complications. Please see pages 3-4 for additional information and data related to COVID-19 associated deaths.
Today, NVHD learned of six laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 associated deaths, all residents of nursing homes within Seymour (5) and Shelton (1). We extend our sincerest condolences to the families and friends of those who have passed away due to COVID-19 complications.
The deaths reported to NVHD today occurred within the last week, not necessarily since the last NVHD report. For public health surveillance, laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 associated deaths are defined as patients who tested positive for COVID-19 around the time of death; this is not a determination of the cause of death. The health district does not have further details including whether there may have been underlying health issues or other contributing factors.
Statewide COVD-19 data is available at https://portal.ct.gov/coronavirus and is also linked on the NVHD website www.nvhd.org/covid19-data.
As a reminder, all data reported is preliminary and subject to change. Test results may be reported several days after the result. 
Patient information may be updated after results have already been reported. Changes will be reflected in the new daily totals.
NVHD receives data and confirmation reports from the following sources: CT Department of Public Health, Hospitals, Healthcare Providers, Laboratories, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
Sometimes, the local health department receives reports before the State DPH and therefore the numbers reported by NVHD may differ from the daily report on the State of CT website.

'Turnback Tuesday' features 1896 book about Derby and Shelton


Turnback Tuesday is highlighting the book: “Souvenir History of Derby and Shelton.” Published in 1896 by the Transcript Co. of Derby, Conn., it was illustrated and compiled by Charles B. Gillespie. This book of 71 pages plus 163 photos and illustrations is packed with information of prominent people and businesses in Derby and Shelton. 
You can view this book at the [Derby Public] Library in our Local History Room.


Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week!

Recuperation journey: Rainy Monday morning


Robin struggles with string.  


Photos taken through the front door. 

Derby Historical Society's 'Tuesdays at Ten' to feature Humphreys House restoration


Today at Ten 

"Tuesday Tours at Ten"!

"Our Live presentation will feature a quick look at some of the continuing and ongoing exterior restoration work of the General David Humphreys House. 

"Additionally, we will present a trivia question for one lucky winner who will receive a special prize! 

"Log onto Facebook, "Like" our page, and watch for our Live broadcast every Tuesday at 10 a.m.

If you enjoy "Tuesday Tours at Ten" please
visit thegreatgive.org  today!"


Click here for the printable membership form: https://gallery.mailchimp.com/3a79ac2188170e3441f4525f1/files/9ecb28e7-1ec1-402b-ac12-2d7dbcb1e540/DHS_Member_App.pdf "


This is a press release from the Derby Historical Society.

Seymour-based record label releases album from local duo, Passing Strange


Seymour-based NeuroTronix Records is pleased to announce the release of "The Water and The Woods" from Connecticut-based Indie/Alternative duo Passing Strange! 
We are so excited to share this release with you, and hope you enjoy the album. 

Here is a link to where you can access their YouTube music page to take a listen to their latest work.
https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_kOMliOSRpZbeMRcevmROv4XMO9HMQrtxY


This is a press release from NeuroTronix Records.

Shelton History Center displays quilt made for 1936 Republican party fundraiser


*This is shared from today's Shelton History Center Facebook post:

This signature quilt [located in the Brownson House] was made by the Fairfield County Women's Republican Association as a fundraiser for the party in 1936. People paid a set amount to have their name embroidered on the quilt which was then raffled off. The name of Helen Lewis, Connecticut's first female legislator, is embroidered at the center of the quilt.

Shelton History Center shares silver pieces owned by Brownsons

Sharing from Shelton History Center's Facebook post on Sunday:

These pieces belonged to Harry and Gertrude Brownson [of Shelton] and were displayed in a place of honor on the sideboard in the dining room as they are shown here. We don't polish the silver very often because a thin layer of silver is removed every time an item is polished.


Valley Community Foundation awards $19.5K to nonprofits, volunteer groups


DERBY - The Valley Community Foundation  has announced it awarded a total of $19,592 in its annual Community Grants Program to 10 community groups serving the Valley. 
These grants will support health initiatives, students, athletics, and more. 

Sharon Closius, VCF President & CEO, said, “During a time when we are all adapting to a new normal, we are proud to be able to offer funding through our Community Grants Program to support volunteer groups and nonprofits with limited staff in our Valley’s five towns. These 10 grants totaling nearly $20,000 will support meaningful, local endeavors.”

Applications for the Valley Community Grants Program are considered through a request for proposal process. 

These grants are responsive to community groups that are volunteer or nonprofit in nature, serve Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and/or Shelton, and have less than two full-time or four part-time staff. 
Community Grants range from $250 to $2,500 and can be for new or recurring programs to support civic and community engagement efforts.

2020 Community Grant Recipients:

Adam Wysota Foundation - $2,500 to support a pilot program of grief education and peer support for college-aged young adults.

All-America Valley Basketball Club - $1,800 to support the purchase of basketballs and uniforms for club participants.

Annual Thanksgiving Basket Committee - $2,500 to support Valley families in need with a basket of food for Thanksgiving 2020.

Ansonia High School - $1,682 to support the publication of a multicultural cookbook created by students at Ansonia High School.

Derby Pop Warner - $2,000 to support the purchase of new cheerleading uniforms.

Music Mends Minds (Valley Chapter) - $500 to support the improvement of the lives of patients with dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and PTSD through the healing power of music.

Shelton CT Farmers Market
- $2,500 to support the Shelton, CT Farmers Market 2020.

Southford Falls Quilters, LLC - $2,500 to support the Southford Falls Quilters programs for 2020-2021.

Town of Seymour
- $2,500 to support ongoing programs (including remote and online) for senior citizens.

Valley Parish Nurses - $1,110 to support wellness programs and blood pressure clinics for seniors in the community.

About The Valley Community Foundation
Established in 2004, the Valley Community Foundation distributes approximately $1.6 million in grants each year to support the local nonprofit sector and the people it serves. In addition to grant making, VCF works in strong partnership with The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, to promote philanthropy in Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton and receives funding from The Gates Fund and other preference funds at TCF that benefit the Valley. 
For more information, visit www.valleyfoundation.org.


This is a press release from the Valley Community Foundation.

Recuperation journey: Rainy day snack


Taken through the glass door on Sunday afternoon.

Shelton Library System slates Teen Trivia Challenge via Zoom


Sharing a Shelton Library System Facebook page event slated for 3 p.m. Wednesday:

*This is an online program*

Kids 13 and older can join Miss Jessica for a round of Jeopardy style questions!

*REGISTRATION REQUIRED*
Registration link: http://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=2661&EventID=411804&PK=

Use your device to download the Zoom app (or go to www.zoom.us).
Join the meeting using the meeting code which will be emailed to you upon registration.
Make sure your audio and video are enabled.
The program will run between 15-30 minutes.


Shelton Library System to host Crafternoon via Zoom Friday

Sharing from a Shelton Library System Facebook event slated for 3 p.m. May 1:

*This is an online program*

Kids of all ages can join Miss Jessica as she shows them how to make a cardboard tube rain stick (have a cardboard tube, wax paper, crayons, beads, and glue ready if you wish to follow along); Kids can then take turns showing the arts and crafts they have been working on at home.

*REGISTRATION REQUIRED*
Registration link: http://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=2661&EventID=411811&PK=

Use your device to download the Zoom app (or go to www.zoom.us).
Join the meeting using the meeting code which will be emailed to you upon registration.
Make sure your audio and video are enabled.
The program will run between 15-30 minutes.


Sunday, April 26, 2020

'Turnback Tuesday' from 4 years ago features Sterling Piano Co. in Derby

This week's "Turnback Tuesday" photo is of the Sterling Piano Co. in Derby. 
It is shown overlooking the canal that united Ansonia and Birmingham in the Water Street area. 
It has since been filled in, with Home Depot now occupying the spot that was previously occupied by Farrel's until the year 2000. In the background is the Naugatuck River.


*Posting just for fun ~ something to read about other than, well you know.

Shelton Historical Society shares stamps once offered by grocery store


From the Shelton History Center's Facebook post:

These Macdonald Plaid Stamps from 1968 were offered by the A&P grocery store in Shelton. The Shelton store opened at 475 Howe Ave. in 1942. The store eventually relocated to River Road in the late 1960s and closed in the early 1970s. 
The building is now a self-storage company. 
Do you remember trading stamps?

Wishing a Happy, Happy Birthday to RIV, my BFF!

 Proud Dad with Baby #1
Proud Dad with Baby #2

I thought I'd share two nostalgic pix of husband Ralph with our kids. 
He's the family photo archivist but I'm doing my best today! 💕   


Klarides-Ditria offers update on state, federal response to COVID-19 pandemic

Lawmaker's message received late Saturday:

Dear Friend,
I wanted to update you on some new information regarding the state and federal response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, including the restart of the Paycheck Protection Program which resumes on Monday April 27, 2020. 
As we begin to look ahead to re-opening up the state, my colleagues and I are working with the Governor's office to make sure we can get people back to work safely.
As we continue to address the current COVID-19 pandemic, my colleagues and I have been working to provide you with the most current information. Our office has created a page with information and links to resources and programs you might find useful during and after the COVID-19 outbreak. You can read more here.
I wanted to also remind you that the state of Connecticut has a comprehensive COVID-19 website for the most up-to-date information information for individuals and businesses that you can view here as well as a 'Frequently Asked Questions' document which can be found here.
______________________________

Paycheck Protection Program

This program is an SBA loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. You can learn more about this program by visiting this website. You may also see what lenders are participating in this program here.
____________________________________

Update on the 2020 Legislative Session

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, legislative leaders have decided to conclude the 2020 regular session, but are already working on plans to convene a special session in the coming months to ensure that necessary legislative action be taken. I will keep you informed as more details develop.

If you have any questions or concerns on these or any other issue, please contact me at Nicole.Klarides-Ditria@housegop.ct.gov or call 860-240-8700. I will be providing more frequent updates on my Facebook page, which you can find by clicking here.
Please stay safe and healthy.


Saturday, April 25, 2020

Naugatuck Valley Health District: One more COVID-19 associated death in Shelton


Since our last update on Friday, April 24, Naugatuck Valley Health District (NVHD) has received 9 new reports of laboratory confirmed COVID-19 cases across the Valley, bringing the district’s total to 923 cases.
255 (~27%) of the 923 confirmed cases among Valley residents, are individuals who currently reside in a nursing home, assisted living facility, group home, or other similar setting.
83 (~32%) of the 255 individuals have passed away due to COVID-19 complications. 

Today, NVHD learned of one laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 associated death, a 92-year-old female nursing home resident in Shelton. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Statewide COVD-19 data is available at https://portal.ct.gov/coronavirus and is also linked on the NVHD website www.nvhd.org/covid19-data.
As a reminder, all data reported is preliminary and subject to change. Test results may be reported several days after the result. 
Patient information may be updated after results have already been reported. Changes will be reflected in the new daily totals.
NVHD receives data and confirmation reports from the following sources: 
CT Department of Public Health, Hospitals, Health Care Providers, Laboratories, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Sometimes, the local health department receives reports before the State DPH and therefore the numbers reported by NVHD may differ from the daily report on the State of CT website.