Recuperation journey: Sad to learn of passing of a former colleague

Yesterday I was saddened to read of the passing Wednesday of Seymour resident Pauline Lounsbury, longtime reporter for the former Evening Sentinel. 

Reading her obituary reminded me of what a great reporter Pauline was - no one could cover Seymour more thoroughly and with more sources than she! 

We were a small staff, and Pauline often worked mornings by herself in a tiny bureau on Bank Street in Seymour before she arrived in the Ansonia newsroom. I remember her jokingly refer to herself as the "chief of the Seymour bureau." 

Pauline is the fourth journalist with whom I worked closely for 14 years at the Sentinel who sadly has passed away. 

I send my sincere condolences to Pauline's family. May she rest in peace.

Derby official announces passing of former City Clerk

Sharing message from Town/City Clerk Marc Garofalo:

"It is with deep personal regret that I inform you of the passing of long time former City Clerk Helen P. Dripchak.  A life time resident of the City of Derby, Mrs. Dripchak was a graduate of St. Michael School and Derby High School.  She worked at Derby City Hall for more than 35 years and was the first woman to serve as City Clerk.  She retired in 1988. 

"She was married to Stephen Dripchak for more than 66 years was an active member of St. Michael Parish for many years.  She was also a member of the Polish Falcons.

"She is the mother of Stephen and David Dripchak.  She was predeceased by a daughter Pamela.  She had 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

"Please join Mayor Anita Dugatto and the entire City of Derby in mourning the loss of a long time civil servant who served with dignity and class.  She will be missed for her gentle personality and her fabulous stuffed cabbage.  May she rest in peace."