Saturday, January 30, 2016

Tea anyone? Derby Library to hold talk on drink's history, health benefits


DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites you to a special program at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 29.

Betty Johnson from Bigelow Tea of Fairfield will present
The History and Health Benefits of Tea.  
For three generations, Bigelow has stood the test of ‘tea time.’  
Learn how their first tea, Constant Comment, was named and why it is still the number one selling tea in the country today.

Johnson also will share information on the benefits of this healthy and delicious drink.
Sample teas will be distributed.  

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

Ansonia Library to present 'The Singing Gnome'

 Photo from Library website 
ANSONIA - The Ansonia Library, 53 S. Cliff St., will present "The Singing Gnome” from 10-11:30 a.m. Feb. 20. 

Shake and sing out those winter blues! Great music for all ages! 
Guaranteed to be a fun time!  

For more information, call the Children’s Department of the Ansonia Library, 203-734-6275.


This is a press release from Mary Ann Capone, Director, Ansonia Library.

Master's Table to host dinner at Assumption Church hall in Ansonia


Master's Table Community Meals, Inc. founder Jim Fedak said in an accompanying email that the nonprofit is seeking monthly donors at $25 a month. 
He also said he is available to speak to churches, organizations, and businesses about the work being done by Master's Table.  

Friday, January 29, 2016

MDA holds 'lockup' at restaurant in downtown Ansonia

Dakota Fortier, 11, of Waterbury, went 'behind bars' Thursday at The Original Antonio's of Ansonia for an important cause.
Dakota served as the 2016 Ansonia Executive Lock-Up Goodwill Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. 


Please stay tuned for more photos and information from the fund-raising event. 




Talk at Derby Public Library to focus on black bears in state


DERBY - The Derby Public Library has scheduled a program, The Bear Facts: Black Bears in Connecticut, at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 22.

Presenter Paul Colburn, certified Master Wildlife Conservationist, will focus on the natural history of black bears in Connecticut. He will give an overview of the black bear habitat, diet, behavior, and current research efforts.

Recommendations for optimum coexistence with the black bear population will be offered.
The increased sightings of black bears in our neighborhoods makes this a very timely presentation.  

Registration is requested.  
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 Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.

Ansonia Library to host health screenings

ANSONIA - High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it often has no symptoms.  
When was the last time you had your blood pressure checked? 

A representative from the Naugatuck Valley Health District will be at the Ansonia Library from 11 a.m.-noon Feb. 10 and March 9 conducting drop-in blood pressure screenings.  

For more information, call 203-734-6275.

The Library is at 53 S. Cliff St.


This is a press release from Mary Ann Capone, Director, Ansonia Library.

Ansonia mayor to appear on 'Face the State' Sunday

Sharing from the City of Ansonia Facebook page: 

Mayor David S. Cassetti will be a guest on WFSB's 'Face the State' with Dennis House at 11 a.m. Sunday. 


The show was recorded Thursday night.

Wesley Village in Shelton offers dementia support group

SHELTON - Do you know or care for someone recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? Are you in need of support? You’re not alone! 

Caregivers are invited to Wesley Village Feb. 18. and every third Thursday of the month, from 2-3 p.m. for an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group. 
The group will offer problem-solving techniques and helpful support for families and caregivers, and will be facilitated by Wesley Village staff. 
Your loved one is welcome to participate in activities in a secured environment while you attend the support group. 

For more information or to RSVP, call 203-225-5024 or visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org
The group will be held at Wesley Heights and Lifestyle Transitions at Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave.
In the event of inclement weather, please call to confirm.

Wesley Village is a campus of senior care communities including Crosby Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community, Wesley Heights Assisted and Independent Living Apartments and Cottages, Lifestyle Transitions Memory Care at Wesley Heights, and Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center. 
The campus is owned and operated by UMH, a local, mission-based, not-for-profit organization serving all members of the community at 580 Long Hill Ave. 
To learn more about the continuum of care offered at Wesley Village or the mission of UMH, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org or contact Lisa Bisson, 203-225-5024.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Ansonia to hold kindergarten registration event Saturday at Mead School

ANSONIA - The 14th annual Kick-Off to Kindergarten Registration will be held for families of kindergarten eligible students from 9 a.m. until noon Saturday at John C. Mead School, 75 Ford St.   

A free pancake breakfast, games, fun activities, a free Ansonia Public School uniform shirt and more will be provided to participating families of eligible children.

To be eligible for kindergarten, children must be 5 years of age on or before Dec. 31, 2016. No exception can be made regarding the age of admission.  

Parents should bring the following information with them a: 1) certified birth certificate with notarized seal, 2) medical screening record/yellow form of last physical, and 3) a minimum of two proofs of residency (including Connecticut Driver’s License indicating your Ansonia residency on the front of the license, utility bills such as ATT, Comcast, or UI dated within timeframe of registration date, deed to home or dated rental agreement showing the child’s name, or signed mortgage commitment.


For more information, contact Sheila M. Kearney, Ansonia School Readiness Grant Program Coordinator, at 203-736-5052 or skearney@ansonia.org


This is a press release from Ansonia Public Schools.

Derby, Post University partner to boost higher education opportunities

Signing ceremony slated Feb. 4
DERBY - The Board of Education and the city have entered into a partnership and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Post University officials.

The intent of this memorandum is to outline the understanding between the Board of Education, acting on behalf of itself and the City of Derby, and Post University is to provide access to educational benefits as a means of improving employee recruitment, retention, and qualifications and affordable access to higher education for all Derby residents.


Post University will provide access to a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs that meet the needs of residents and employees of the BOE/City and their dependents. 


Individuals will have the flexibility and convenience of taking accelerated degree program courses online, at any of Post University’s Regional Locations in Connecticut or a combination of both; or enrolling at Post University’s traditional, four- year main campus in Waterbury.


Post University will offer a 15 percent tuition grant to individuals taking undergraduate and graduate courses at Post University. 
This offer is extended to employees of the Board of Education, city, immediate family members (including spouses and children) as well as all city residents.


First of its kind
Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway said, “We are thrilled to partner with Post to provide Higher Education learning opportunities to our employees and residents while promoting the vital importance and need for college education in today’s competitive work environment.” 
This partnership is the first of its kind between Post University and a municipality. 

Mayor Anita Dugatto commented, “This partnership represents the great working relationship we have with our schools and the value we place on higher education for all.”


Post University President Donald W. Mroz said, “I’m thrilled to welcome the residents and employees of the City of Derby into the Post University family! 
"This is a wonderful example of how two institutions can work together to provide students with the education they desire, in the way they need it. Partnerships like this recognize the growing need to offer flexible ways for working professionals to leverage their education and experience and accelerate their path to a college degree.” 

Post University provides students with the knowledge, personal skills, and experience required to be leaders in their chosen fields. 

Located in Waterbury, Post University offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs for on- campus and online students of all ages, and is known for its quality, career-driven academic programs, small classes, competitive NCAA Division II athletics, and a growing Honors Program. 
The University’s full-and part-time students come from the United States and abroad, and are supported by faculty whose mission is to prepare students to compete and succeed in today’s global workplace. 

To learn more call 800-345-2562, or visit www.Post.edu or http://blog.post.edu.


This is one of two partnerships Derby Public Schools is entering into with Post University. The other partnership provides students with the opportunity to earn college credits while enrolled at Derby High School.
An official signing ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. Feb. 4 at Derby High School. 


This is a press release from Derby Public Schools.

Seymour nonprofit to launch 3rd annual diaper drive in February


SEYMOUR - Connecticut Partnership for Children, Inc., 39 New Haven Road, Suite 1, will hold its “Third Annual 28 Days of Diapers And One to LEAP ON” Initiative in February.

The annual month-long diaper need initiative is an opportunity for community members from all areas of the state to rally their friends, co-workers, business connections, sports teams, school groups, Scouts, and any other group willing to be part of this effort. 
The agency can provide marketing materials or participants can make their own.

Meghan Tarby, founder and executive director of Connecticut Partnership for Children, said in a release: 
"Our goal for 2016 is to bring in more than 5,000 diapers. At this time, we are in desperate need of sizes 4, 5, and 6. Here are some ideas of how you can get involved: Run a simple box drive in the lobby of your workplace. Invite everyone who comes to a local sports event to bring along diapers and wipes as part of the price of admission.  Go denim for diapers – employees donate diapers, wipes, or gift cards in exchange for dressing down. Throw a party and ask guests to bring diapers! 
"Participate in the Hogs’n’Curds event at Colonial Tavern on Feb. 25 (for more info, call 203-881-1804 or e-mail intern@ctpfc.org). 

"Proceeds from this event go directly to our agency," Tarby said.

"Form your team for The Diaper Dash 5K, Kids Fun Run, and Crib Crawl Team Challenge on June 11 in Seymour. Or you can simply make a donation of diapers, wipes, and/or store gift cards."
Connecticut Partnership for Children is a 501©3 organization. 
The agency is a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to supporting low-income children throughout the state.


This is a press release from Meghan Tarby.



Re-posting: Dinner to benefit Ansonia Animal Shelter slated Sunday


Ansonia to celebrate champion Chargers, Coppers Monday



Reception to follow in the atrium. The school is at 20 Pulaski Highway.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Imagine that! Valley Arts Council to host exhibit at E Street Gallery in Derby

An opening reception will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 5 at E Street Gallery, 35 Elizabeth St., Derby.

Be sure to stop by and check out the paintings, sculptures, and more created by local artists! 
Visiting the gallery is always an interesting experience. 

Sharing link to inaugural issue of Valley Voice newsletter

Dear readers, 

We just launched the next phase in our communications business. Here's the link to our first newsletter:

http://goo.gl/w7HxQT

We thought we'd go with a theme for the first one.

You can take a peek here:

We'll also be distributing print copies in various locations in the Lower Naugatuck Valley. 

Griffin Hospital in Derby offers evening classes for nursing program

The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers is offering an evening session of its Accelerated Certified Nursing Assistant program./ Contributed photo

DERBY - The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers, 300 Seymour Ave., Suite 206, is offering an evening session of its Accelerated Certified Nursing Assistant program this spring to help aspiring healthcare professionals quickly jump-start their careers.

The six-week CNA program starts March 7 and runs Monday-Thursday with classes 5-9 p.m. and clinical training Monday-Thursday from 5-10 p.m. 
Anyone 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED may apply for admission.
The program runs for a total of 104 hours. The first four weeks of the program will be classroom education and skills training and the two final weeks will include clinical experience at an extended care facility and Griffin Hospital for the required 40 hours for CNA certification completion.
Tuition includes books, CPR training and malpractice insurance.

For more information or to apply, call 203-732-1276 or visit griffinhealth.org/allied-health.

Griffin Hospital's School of Allied Health Careers was one of the first hospital-based schools of its kind to be authorized by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education and offers training, education, and certification for Phlebotomy, Nursing Assistant, and Patient Care Technician healthcare careers. 
Classes are taught by certified instructors in the Griffin Hospital Medical Building at 300 Seymour Ave.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Friends of Derby Neck Library plan visit to Brooklyn Botanic Garden


*Re-posting this information. Sounds like an interesting festival! 

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Ansonia High names cafeteria after nutrition program director

Unveiling of sign at AHS cafeteria./ Contributed photo



















ANSONIA – A dedication ceremony, honoring Dominick Golia, director of the Nutrition Program for Ansonia Public Schools, was held Jan. 20 at Ansonia High School. 
Nearly 100 family, friends and colleagues watched as Mr. Golia’s family unveiled a new sign on the AHS cafeteria, now named the Dominick Golia Cafeteria.

Golia has been serving the Ansonia Public Schools for nearly 50 years, first as a science teacher at AHS and more recently as head of the nutrition program for the district. 

The Board of Education voted unanimously at its November 2015 meeting to name the cafeteria at AHS in his name, honoring him for a lifetime of service to the children of Ansonia. 

Dr. Carol Merlone, Superintendent of Schools, served as Master of Ceremonies. 
Mayor David S. Cassetti and Board President William Nimons delivered welcoming remarks. Guest speakers were Wilhemenia Christon, retired principal of AHS, and Dominick Golia, Golia's son.

Golia was born and raised in New Haven, graduated from Providence College with a Bachelor of Science degree, awarded a Master of Arts from SCSU and a sixth-year degree from the University of Bridgeport. Prior to coming to Ansonia, he taught school in Seymour and ran a family business.

In 1966, Golia moved to Trinidad, an island located off the coast of Venezuela. 
Three years later, he returned home to teach science at Ansonia High School. He is responsible for bringing in the school district’s first computer system. 

Golia speaks at dedication ceremony in
his honor. With him is Dr. Carol Merlone.

One day in the late 1990s, the late Ruth Feinberg Connors assigned Golia as the new food services director. He retired in June 1998 and began his new part-time position.

Golia is credited with building a self-sustaining nutrition department that serves thousands of meals each school day in Ansonia’s four schools. 

Two years ago, he began a free dinner program at the Boys & Girls Club in Ansonia and now serves 150 meals each day, five days a week. During the summer, his program provides free breakfast and lunch for children in nearly 20 locations throughout the region. This year, he rolled out a Universal Breakfast Program in the two elementary schools, feeding every child - regardless of their eligibility for free or reduced priced meals.
In addition to his many acts of community support, Golia is Ansonia’s homeless liaison and serves on several committees, including the district technology council, the Ansonia Youth Service Bureau, the VITAHLS committee, and the Valley Council Food Security Task Force, which published the Valley Hunger Study in 2015. 
“Those who know Dominick know that he is a gentle man with a heart of gold who loves to make a grand entrance wherever he goes,” Gary Merlone wrote in his letter to the Ansonia Board of Education in November. 
“His generosity to fundraisers for Ansonia community members, in addition to items that he has purchased for our Ansonia students, is truly a testament to his character.”

A reception in the cafeteria followed the unveiling of the sign.


This is a press release from Ansonia Public Schools.

Tech time offered at Derby Public Library

DERBY - The Derby Public Library offers monthly Tech Time sessions.  


Every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. and every third Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. a staff 
member will be on hand to answer all your tech-related questions and concerns.  

Whether you are having trouble downloading e-books, searching databases, completing on-line job applications, 
scanning/sending documents and photos, etc., your problems will be addressed. 

The next sessions will be held at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 17, and at 10 a.m. Feb. 18.

No registration is needed.  
For more information, stop by the Library at
313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482, or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.     


This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library. 

Super Bowl sub sale to raise funds for Derby Scouts

A Valley tradition continues ...
DERBY -  Boy Scout Troop 3 and Venture Crew 33 are accepting orders for one-foot and five-foot double-wide party sub sandwiches as part of their annual Super Bowl Sub Sale fundraiser.


The subs are made to order and home delivered anywhere in the Lower Naugatuck Valley Feb. 7. 
All orders must be received by Feb. 3. 

One-foot subs are $7 each and the five-foot, double-wide party subs are $65. 
Proceeds from the sale will help the Scouts attend the Edmund D. Strang Scout Reservation summer camp in Goshen and a Caribbean sailing adventure.

Troop 3 is sponsored by Derby Second Congregational Church and Venture Crew 33 is sponsored by the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club. 

For more information visit www.troop3derby.org. To place an order call 203-732-0343.

The order form is below:



This is a press release from Troop 3 Scoutmaster Randy Ritter.

Ansonia police ask residents to report suspicious activity

Good morning Ansonia Hilltop neighbors. I just read this message on Facebook from our police department and thought I should share.



"The Ansonia Police would like to make residents aware of two burglaries that have occurred within the past two weeks in the area of Highland Avenue, Beverly Drive and Webster Drive. Both burglaries have had similar methods of entry and electronic items and money were taken from the homes.

"We are asking that residents who live in the area to be aware of any suspicious activity and to report any persons who may be wandering the area. Both burglaries were of homes that were unoccupied. Please keep an eye out on properties of neighbors who may not be home during the daytime.

"At this time we are not able to release any specifics as it relates to a suspects but if more information becomes available this information will be made public.

"Ansonia Police Department Phone: 203-735-1885."



Children's room at Derby Public Library to host programs

Stories with Lunch
   DERBY - Children ages 4-9 are invited to bring a bag lunch and stop by the Derby Public Library at noon Feb. 12 for Stories with Lunch.  
  Listen to stories while you enjoy your lunch followed by some hands-on dessert making.  
  Participants will be decorating Valentine’s Day sweets.  
  There is no fee to attend; registration is requested.  

Lego Time
   DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites children ages 4-11 to use their creative talents and stir their imaginations during Lego Time at 3:30 p.m. Feb. 18. 
  All levels of building skills are welcome to come by for this drop-in program. 
   There is no fee to attend and all building materials will be provided.  
    Place your building masterpiece on display in the Children’s Room for everyone to admire!

    For information on either program or to register for Stories with Lunch, call 203-736-1482, stop by the Library, 313 Elizabeth St., or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.


This is a press release from Sue Sherman, children's librarian, Derby Public Library.

Shelton Historical Society to "visit" Alaska Sunday


Ansonia Nature Center to host ice fishing class Wednesday

ANSONIA - A free ice fishing class is being offered Wednesday by the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road.  

The class is taught by certified instructors from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection C.A.R.E. Program.  
C.A.R.E. is an acronym for Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education.  
These are experienced fishermen who volunteer to share their experience and expertise with anyone wanting to learn.  
The classroom instruction will take place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Ansonia Nature Center. 
The instruction covers the basics of the equipment, safety, dress, rules and regulations and species identification.  
Participants then have two opportunities to actually practice what was covered in the classroom session.  

The first is at a state-wide ice fishing derby Saturday held in Coventry. All equipment, bait, and instruction is provided free of charge.
The second fishing event is in Torrington Feb. 6. The  event is “No Child Left Inside” Winter Festival.  Various winter activities are offered at Burr Pond State Park.  
Ice fishing is one of the main attractions and is completely free. 
Additional information about the fishing events will be available at the classroom session.

Advance registration is required to insure sufficient materials are provided for the class. 
The class is open to all ages, and participants, not just Ansonia residents. 
It is recommended that children under the age of 12 be accompanied by an adult. Register by calling Dave Connelly, Chief Instructor, 203-231-0946.


This information is shared from an online community calendar sponsored by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and The New Haven Independent.

Monday, January 25, 2016

Sharing sad news of passing of Ansonia bake shop owner

Roy Tidmarsh photographed in February 2015 at 'In Love and Chocolate' fund-raising event in Shelton.

ANSONIA - I was saddened this afternoon to read the news of the passing of resident Roy W. Tidmarsh.

I met him in his bake shop at 66 Westfield Ave. a few days before Valentine's day in 2012, and thoroughly enjoyed our chat about baking, candy-making, and Valley traditions that go back decades. 

The last time I spoke with him was in February at 'In Love and Chocolate,' a fund-raising event in Shelton.

I extend my condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.

Please click here to read the story I wrote in 2012 about Tidmarsh for the New Haven Register. 

Local artist to present craft program for kids at Derby Public Library

DERBY - In recognition of the fifth annual Take Your Child to the Library Day, Derby Public Library has scheduled a variety of activities Feb. 6.  

For anyone who is unfamiliar with this now nationwide day of recognizing libraries, it began as a collaborative effort by Children’s Librarians in Connecticut to encourage families to stop by and discover all the resources and opportunities their local library offers.  
Think of it as a sampling of what today’s libraries are all about.   

Thumbprint sample
Families with children ages 4-11 are welcome to come by at 11 a.m. for Thumbody Loves You, presented by Derby artist Evie North.
Participants will create greeting or note cards using their thumbprints to make different characters.  
What a perfect idea for Valentine’s Day giving!  

Lego Time is slated for 12:30 p.m. for children ages 4-11.  
All levels of building skills are welcome to come by for this drop-in program   
The day also includes a raffle, refreshments, a scavenger hunt, and more!

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


This is a press release from Sue Sherman, children's librarian, Derby Public Library.

Teens to learn 3-D printing at Derby Public Library


DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites young adults ages 12 to 17 to Teen Maker Space from 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 16 for an Introduction to 3-D Printing. 

Attendees will explore various aspects of this new technology. 
This program is a prerequisite for future 3-D printing programs. 

Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is requested. 
For more information stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.


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

Ansonia soccer to hold registration this week at Armory


School in Derby to recognize alumni, friends at annual dinner

DERBY- Five alumni and friends of St. Mary-St. Michael Elementary School will be recognized from 6-9 p.m. March 12 at the Inn at Villa Bianca in Seymour.

The 2016 honorees are: Marc J. Garofalo and four others who will be announced.
A keepsake program book is being produced and advertisements, congratulatory and “in memoriam” messages are available by contacting the school office.

The cost is $40 per person, with tables of 10 available at a cost of $350.

Reservations are requested by March 4 and may be made by contacting Mrs. Coppola at lcoppola@stmarystmichael.org, or 203-735-6471.


The school is at 14 Seymour Ave.


Valley United Way seeks humanitarian award nominations

SHELTON - Valley United Way is accepting nominations for the Charles H. Flynn Humanitarian Award. 

The award, the Valley’s oldest and most prestigious award for community service, has been presented annually since 1971 when Alice Russ Cochran of Shelton was named the first winner. 
The award is restricted to living persons whose service has been to the entire Valley community. 
Their service must not be limited to just one town or one organization.

The award is named for the late Mr. Flynn, who was, at the time of his death, editor of The Evening Sentinel and had been one of the founders of the Valley United Fund. 
He had been president of the Ansonia Community Chest. In 1968, he led that organization into a merger with the Derby-Shelton Community Chest and the Seymour United Fund which resulted in the formation of what is now known as the Valley United Way.

A native of Derby, he was an Ansonia resident most of his life and a long time Sentinel employee. He had an abiding interest in the Valley community and served it in myriad ways.  
At the time of his death he was first vice-president of the Valley United Fund; president of Catholic Family Services; president of the Ansonia Board of Assessors; director of the Ansonia Public Library and director of the Lower Naugatuck Valley Chapter, American Red Cross.
Following his death in 1969, this award was established because of his life long dedicated service to the entire Valley. 
Anyone wishing to nominate someone for the Flynn award may do so by submitting a written resume of that person to the Valley United Way, 54 Grove St. or by filling out and submitting an electronic nomination form that can be found at http://www.valleyunitedway.org. 
The award will be presented at United Way's annual dinner meeting in April.


This is a press release from Valley United Way, the leading philanthropic resource for the Valley towns of Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton matching the needs of the community and the interests of donors to improve the quality of life in the community. 
United Way supports and creates initiatives addressing youth, families and people in crisis. Each year Valley United Way funds programs and organizations that make a measurable difference in the lives of people living and working in the Valley.