Cat in the Hat visits Bungay School in Seymour

The Cat in the Hat visited students and staff Monday at Bungay School in Seymour to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday and kick off "Read Across America" week. Here Seuss' infamous character (portrayed by Sam Pollastro) poses with Bungay School Principal MarySue Feige.

Stay tuned for a story in the Valley Independent Sentinel.


Update: The story is posted here.

Bowl-2-Benefit slated March 14 in Milford

27th annual event supports domestic violence services 

The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services, a program of BHcare, is seeking bowlers of all ages and skill levels to participate in the 27th Annual Bowl-2-Benefit on March 14.

The day-long event will be held at AMF Lanes, 1717 Boston Post Road, Milford. 

All proceeds from this non-competitive benefit UCDVS which provides services to nearly 7,000 victims of domestic violence and their children each year throughout the Greater New Haven, Greater Naugatuck Valley, and Shoreline communities. 

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

The Bowl-2-Benefit, one of the largest fundraising events of its kind in the state, attracts more than 1,500 community members. 

Bowlers of all ages and skill levels are welcome but pre-registration is required. While the 4:30 p.m. session is sold-out, there is still plenty of room in the 9 a.m.,11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m. sessions.

Bowlers pay a minimal $5 registration fee and are asked to collect pledges to support their efforts. Each bowler will receive 90 minutes of bowling, an event t-shirt, shoe rental, soft drink, and a chance to win prizes. 

The event is ideal for clubs, schools, organizations, corporations and families.


C.J. Forcier is a six year veteran of the event and team captain of the New Haven Family Condors, the event’s top fund-raising team in recent years. 

“The New Haven Family Condors became involved with the Bowl-2-Benefit as a team building event and to support our court-based Victim Advocacy Program in the New Haven Court. The day of the bowling event is unlike any other as it is filled with a lot of laughter, comradery, and heaps of fun. I would strongly encourage anyone to be part of the event; you’ll have a great time,” Forcier said.

Decreases in state and federal funding coupled with increases in demand for services make fundraising events such as the Bowl-2-Benefit critical to sustaining services for those at risk and in need. Last year, the Bowl-2-Benefit raised over $93,000. Event organizers hope to exceed that amount this year and attract an even larger bowling crowd.

The 27th Annual Bowl-2-Benefit is being sponsored by the Bassett Family Fund and media partners include Channel 3 Eyewitness News, 99.1 WPLR and Star 99.9-FM. 

Anyone interested in receiving more information about, or participating in the Bowl-2-Benefit, should call Debbie Soulsby, 203-736-2601, ext. 1321 or visit www.bhcare.org. Deadline for bowler registration is March 5.



This is a press release from BHcare, 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.

Mayor extends dog walking at Ansonia Riverwalk through March

ANSONIA - Mayor David S. Cassetti announced today that the Ansonia Riverwalk will be open for dog walking through the month of March.

David S. Cassetti

“It’s been a difficult winter for residents and for those residents with pets," he said.

"I want to make sure that pet owners are able to walk in a safely plowed area and enjoy the scenery by taking advantage of the riverwalk throughout the month of March.” 

Cassetti has worked collaboratively throughout the year with Alderman Pat Henri to help ensure that more residents and visitors use the Ansonia Riverwalk, taking advantage of the scenic beauty of the Naugatuck River, and encouraging recreational activities with their pets. 

All dog walking events will be for those with licensed dogs only. Dogs will need to be kept on a leash and cleanup is the responsibility of the pet owner. Please respect all walkers and be sure to clean up after your pet. 

 “I am a pet owner and an animal lover and I want to make sure pet owners and others in Ansonia have an opportunity to enjoy our beautiful Riverwalk. I hope to continue to see you and your pets out there," Cassetti said.

Seymour Pink slates 8th annual pasta dinner

Seymour-based nonprofit plans fundraiser bus trip