Talk on overcoming stress offered at Griffin Hospital in Derby

Contributed photo

DERBY - The Griffin Health Stroke Support Group will host a discussion on overcoming stress from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Nov. 11 at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital. 

The discussion will cover mindfulness and how attempting to control breathing and to focus on the moment can help manage stress. 

RSVP at 203-732-7445.

The Center for Cancer Care is at 350 Seymour Ave.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

Derby Public Library to host Teen Maker Space

DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to Teen Maker Space from 3-4:30 p.m. Nov. 21. 
Available resources include “Green Screen” video production, 3D design programs, 3D doodle pens, Legos, and more! 

Light refreshments will be provided. 

For more information call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.
The Library is at 313 Elizabeth St.

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

Rochelle to recognize winners of Future Fair essay contest

Community building event slated Saturday

State Rep. Kara Rochelle 

             

ANSONIA - State Rep. Kara Rochelle, D-Ansonia/Derby, Wednesday announced the winners of the 104th District’s first Future Fair essay contest.

Fahmida Chowdhury of Ansonia and Jessica Gerckens of Derby will be recognized and receive citations from the Connecticut General Assembly at Future Fair, the event Rochelle is hosting at Emmett O’Brien Technical High School from noon-4 p.m. Saturday.

The essay topic: “How does civic engagement and community service help strengthen our communities and how can you participate in both to improve your city?” was open to all eighth graders in Derby and Ansonia with a mission of encouraging students from the community to make connections between their current lives and the importance of civics and community service.

“The Valley has a deep tradition of residents giving their time and working together to build up our community. We show up for each other, and many volunteer regularly in making our community stronger, safer, and more vibrant for our residents. I wanted to encourage students to continue on this path,” Rochelle said.

The presentations to Chowdhury and Gerckens will take place at 1 p.m. 

Future Fair will feature dozens of organizations providing resources and tools for residents, as well as opportunities to get more involved in community efforts.   

All are welcome to attend and residents are encouraged to be present at 1 p.m. when the essay contest winners who have shown great understanding of the value of civic engagement are honored. 

This is a press release from Rochelle's office.

Shelton School Readiness enrolling students

Registration open for Seymour Recreation Basketball League

Teen Musical Theatre Workshop in Shelton to stage 'One Moment in Time'

SHELTON - The Teen Musical Theatre Workshop, more commonly referred to as "Fall Cab", is a Broadway musical revue featuring high school students held in the beginning of November each year.
The revue will be performed Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 2, 3, and 9,10, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4 at Center Stage Theatre, 54 Grove St. Tickets are $15.

The program promotes an enthusiasm and a love for musical theatre performance.
Cast members of the Teen Musical Theatre Workshop grow not only as performers, but as people too, while having fun in the process!
As performers, teens are taught valuable skills in "selling" a song, in solo and ensemble singing, and in dancing. In the process, cast members also learn that great performances are the result of great rehearsals.
Other important skills learned during the rehearsal period include: working with deadlines, preparedness, precision, responsibility, organization, and group collaboration.
Many participants say the Teen Musical Theatre Workshop has benefited them by teaching them not only about theatre, but also by teaching them lessons for life.

This is shared from a Facebook event page.

'Turnback Tuesday' (on Wednesday) features Lee Drug Co. in Derby

Turnback Tuesday visits Lee Drug Company, started in 1947 by Anthony J. Szczesiul on 249 Main St., Derby.
In 1973, Szczesiul moved the business to 101 Elizabeth St. 
And in 1931, Pasquale Coppola became the new owner and pharmacist. Shown is an advertisement that was attached to a calendar given out by Coppola to his customers.

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

Storyteller to talk about ghosts, legends at Seymour Public Library

John H. Collins Post 24 to hold Veterans Day ceremony on Derby Green

Staff accomplishments recognized at Wesley Village in Shelton

Contributed photo 

Lisa Bisson, center, Director of Community Outreach for Wesley Village, was recognized at the recent LeadingAge CT Annual Meeting for completing the year-long Leadership Academy coursework. With her are Elizabeth Bemis, VP of marketing and sales, and UMH President and CEO David M. Lawlor.


SHELTON - Wesley Village and United Methodist Homes announce that President and CEO David M. Lawlor has been appointed Board Chair for LeadingAge CT, a membership organization representing over 130 not-for-profit provider organizations serving older adults and disabled individuals across the continuum of services, including nursing homes, residential care homes, housing for the elderly, life plan communities, adult day services, home health care agencies and assisted living. 

Lawlor has been a member of LeadingAge for 15 years and has been on the Board for the past 5 years.  He has served in the senior care industry for over 27 years, the last 18 at United Methodist Homes.  

Lawlor is committed to a mission-driven approach to leadership, both at United Methodist Homes and LeadingAge CT.  

His focus on positive resident and patient outcomes and high satisfaction are the cornerstone of his approach which aligns well with LeadingAge CT’s values of self-determination, compassion, benevolence, individual dignity, diversity, social responsibility, and promoting volunteerism.

As a Fellow is this transformational leadership experience for emerging leaders in aging services, Lisa Bisson had an opportunity to learn about leadership and best practices in senior living.  

She joins fellow Leadership Academy alumni at Wesley Village, Debra Samorajczyk – Administrator at Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center and Lori Pisani – Executive Director at Crosby Commons. 

LeadingAge Connecticut is an association dedicated to advancing the quality of services and care for older adults and chronically ill individuals in the setting of their choice by leading, educating, representing, advocating and servicing its members who are mission-driven, not-for-profit providers representing the continuum.  

It is the local partner of the national LeadingAge organization, an association of 6,000 not for profit organizations dedicated to expanding the world of possibilities for aging by advancing policies, promoting practices and conducting research that supports, enables and empowers people to live fully as they age.

Wesley Village senior living campus at 580 Long Hill Ave. is part of United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization. 

The Wesley Village 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.

Emmett O'Brien Tech in Ansonia slates Bingo Night to support football team

Boo Bash in Ansonia to feature treats, costume contests on Halloween

Sharing from the City of Ansonia Facebook page:

Due to the inclement weather predicted for Halloween evening ~ Charters Hose Co #4 and Orange You For Ansonia? Kids & Community will be hosting a "Boo Bash" from 6-8 p.m. at Charters Hose, 4 Murray Street. 

Please see details on flyer attached. A very kind gesture by Charters and Orange You For Ansonia. Thank you for thinking of the Ansonia trick or treaters! 🎃👻🍭🍫🍬

Family supper at St. Mary Church hall in Derby to benefit Scouts

Deadline for voter registration is Tuesday; Election Day is Nov. 5

Wine pairing event in Shelton to benefit Valley Shakespeare Festival

Learn about birds, take a hike, more at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, offers a variety of fun and educational programs in November.

A PASSION FOR BIRDS WITH HENRY LAPPEN  – Nov. 2, 2 p.m.

This unique interpretive program for families helps people understand and connect with birds and other wildlife. 
Using masks, comedy, and loads of audience participation, artist Henry Lappen explores how and why birds have adapted to their environment. 
He explains the science while demonstrating how the birds move and act. 
Participants get to try on the masks and soar as eagles, stalk as herons, and swim as puffins. 

FEE: $6 per person; please call to register. For all ages.

FALL FOLIAGE HIKE - Nov. 3, 1 p.m.

Join the Nature Center naturalist for a stroll through our woodlands, old fields, and wetlands. Enjoy the beauty and the crisp fall air while learning about New England’s flora and fauna. Wear appropriate shoes for this moderate hike. FREE. Please register.

NATURE EXPLORERS – Wednesdays, Oct. 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 10–11:30 a.m.

Join us for this four-week pre-school/toddler program for children ages 2-5 with their adult explorer. 
Participants will have fun exploring nature every week in these outdoor classes, which are loosely structured, influenced by the seasons and the interests of the children. 
We will go outside to explore nature every class so please dress for the weather. Classes will end with a light snack and conversation. 

TUITION: $40 for all 4 weeks. Class is limited to 10 children. Please call to register.

WESTERN CT ORIENTEERING CLUB EVENT -Nov. 9, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Come try the fun and adventurous sport of orienteering at this event hosted by the Western CT Orienteering Club. 
Using a map and compass, navigate to locations marked on a detailed map of the Nature Center. 
Courses suitable for beginners through advanced participants with free training provided. Start any time from 10 am to noon and finish by 2 pm. 
FEE: $10 for individuals, $15 for families. 
For more information, see wcocorienteering.org or email wrdewitt@snet.net.

DECEMBER 2019

WINTER WREATH WORKSHOP – Dec. 7, 10 a.m.

Celebrate winter and the festive season as you create a wreath from fresh locally grown greens, then decorate your masterpiece with natural trimmings. Enjoy some warm mulled cider and a cookie too! 
Wreath frames and wire will be provided. Please bring your own hand clippers. MATERIALS FEE: $15. Please call to register.

NEEDLE FELTING FOR BEGINNERS – Dec. 7, 2 p.m.

Join in this fun class and learn the art of needle felting. With just one barbed needle you can create some wonderful 3D animals. All supplies will be provided. 
MATERIALS FEE: $15. Class size is limited to 12, so please register in advance. Ages 12 and up.

          *** ONGOING PROGRAMS ***  

Creature Features  – Saturdays, noon  

Come to meet our furry, scaly, and feathery animal ambassadors. You’ll have the chance to touch and hold them in this FREE family program for all ages.

Sunday Guided Hikes – 1 p.m.

Join a Nature Center guide on Sunday afternoons for fun, exercise, and learning about our trails! 

Fiber Arts Group – Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

Get together with others to work on your fiber arts projects! Bring any kind of fiber work—knitting, felting, crocheting, etc. A great way to dedicate time to your handiwork and socialize too. FREE.

For information and to register, call 203-736-1053.


This is a press release from Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

Derby Cultural Commission postpones Halloween on the Green

Seymour to start 'Time for Me' caregivers' support group

SEYMOUR - The Seymour Community/Senior Center is launching a program called “Time for Me”- a Caregivers' Support Group for Family Caregivers.

The monthly program focuses on personal renewal of the caregivers to be able to socialize and enjoy the company of other caregivers. Recreational and educational activities will be included at the meetings.

Meetings will be held the first Monday of every month starting Nov. 4, from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Seymour Community Center, 20 Pine St.

The program is open to all Seymour residents and Seymour Senior Center members at no cost. Pre-registration is required. 

To register call 203-888-0406 or visit www.seymourcommunityservices.com.

The theme is "Who Cares for the Caregiver."

This is a press release from the Seymour Senior Center.

Seymour Public Library slates fun activities for kids in November

Recuperation journey: Fall foliage found

Driving around town on a sunny Saturday afternoon.

Recuperation journey: Aww...

When a six-year-old friend sounds out your name to surprise you. 

Seymour Public Library to host psychic development workshop

Recuperation journey: Neighbor's tree

Today is a great day to find fall foliage! 

Likoba fashion show to benefit cancer survivors, Derby Senior Center

Who is this man at Mead School in Ansonia?

Why it's Ansonia Superintendent of Schools Joseph DiBacco in the gym Thursday! He was taking part in a pink pie-throwing Valley Goes Pink event with students and staff.

*Stay tuned for more photos in the next issue of the Valley Voice newsletter.

Rochelle to host Future Fair at Emmett O'Brien Tech in Ansonia

Shops at Seymour to kick off holiday shopping on First Saturday

Griffin Hospital in Derby to hold presentation on hip replacement surgery

Orthopedic surgeon Philip Minotti, M.D., will lead a free discussion on the minimally invasive direct anterior approach for hip replacement Nov. 20 at Griffin Hospital./ Contributed photo

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will offer a free presentation on minimally invasive hip replacement surgery at 5:45 p.m. Nov. 20 at the hospital, 130 Division St.

Orthopedic surgeon Philip Minotti, M.D., will discuss the advanced direct anterior approach for hip replacement, which offers important advantages over standard surgical procedures. Direct anterior hip replacement patients generally experience less pain along with a shorter length of stay in the hospital and faster recovery.

Minotti will be available at the end of the presentation to answer any questions from attendees.

These seminars are offered monthly at Griffin Hospital. 

Refreshments will be served.

For more information or to reserve your spot, call Griffin Hospital Orthopaedic Care Specialist Amy Gagne, 203-732-7524.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Forum on opioid epidemic slated Tuesday at Naugatuck High School

Recuperation journey: Morning sky

Early this morning the sky was a drab color, not the blue it is now, about four hours later.
The moon phase today is waning crescent, 19 percent visible. 
When I was a kid we called it a banana moon. 

Fill the Crosley at Heav'nly Donuts in Derby to benefit Spooner House

Help fill the Crosley from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday at Heav'nly Donuts, 653 New Haven Ave., Derby to support the Spooner House food pantry. 
Spooner House, 30 Todd Road, Shelton, is run by Area Congregations Together, Inc. It provides food, shelter, and support services to those in need.
Sunday is also the last car cruise at Heav'nly Donuts for the season.

Vendors sought for Holiday Marketplace in Ansonia

Trunk or Treat slated Saturday at Seymour High School

First United Methodist Church of Ansonia to hold gift basket auction

ANSONIA - First United Methodist Church will hold a gift basket auction fundraiser Nov. 16. The church is at 47 Franklin St.

Doors open at 4 p.m. 
Enjoy hors d'oeuvres and finger foods while signing up for any basket that catches your eye! There are many different themes from which to choose.
It could be a date night featuring dinner and movie, or a New England breakfast basket - the list is endless! 
At 5 p.m. the drawing begins and winners will be announced.

Derby LL to hold Trunk or Treat at Derby High School parking lot

Mead School in Ansonia goes pink for The Valley Goes Pink

Staff at John C. Mead Elementary School in Ansonia pose for a group photo on Wear It Wednesday! to support The Valley Goes Pink. 

From Griffin Health website:

The Valley Goes Pink is an annual, grassroots, community-wide effort of fundraising events and programs that take place throughout the month of October to create awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection, support the Hewitt Center for Breast Wellness at Griffin Hospital in Derby, and  showcase partnering organizations. 

*Photo is shared from the Mead School Parent/Teacher Facebook page.

BHcare to honor Haynes at Community Impact Breakfast in Orange

Community Impact Breakfast

Please join us to honor Tom Haynes for his passion and dedication to BHcare and PCRC. It is our privilege to present Mr. Haynes with our 2019 Community Partner Award. November 14, 2019 7:45 - 9:30 am Race Brook Country Club 246 Derby Avenue Orange, CT 06477

Free and open to the public! Advanced Reservations Required RSVP by November 7 to RSVP@bhcare.org/(203) 446-9739 x1856

Griffin Hospital in Derby to offer diabetic foot screenings * Updated

From Griffin Hospital:
PLEASE NOTE – The press release sent last week had the wrong date for this screening. It is Thurs., Nov. 14 NOT Fri., Nov. 15.

The Comprehensive Wound Care Center at Griffin Hospital will host a free diabetic foot screening event Nov. 14. /Contributed photo  

DERBY - The Comprehensive Wound Care Center at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., is offering individuals diagnosed with diabetes free help with taking care of their feet.

From 5-7 p.m. Nov.14, the Center will host a free diabetic foot screening event at the hospital. 
Each screening will take about 10 minutes and will include consultation with a podiatrist if needed. 
The screenings will be first come, first served, however registration is required by visiting the Griffin Hospital events calendar at griffinhealth.org/events or by calling 203-732-1511. 
For any questions, call the Center at 203-732-7140.

Foot problems are common with diabetes. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes cause damage to blood vessels and peripheral nerves that can result in peripheral artery disease and peripheral neuropathy.

Due to the decreased sensation from nerve damage and the lack of oxygen being delivered to the feet, people with diabetes have an increased risk of ulcers as well as bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, fungal infections, dryness of the skin, and ingrown toenails. 
These problems are not specific to diabetes, but can occur more commonly due to the nerve and vascular damage. If these foot problems are not properly checked or treated, individuals may suffer from tissue death due to absence of blood circulation or a life-threatening bacterial infection.

Diabetic foot screening can help determine risk factors early, and reduce amputations and ulcerations. Studies have shown that early detection and intervention may prevent up to 85 percent of amputations in diabetic patients.

Symptoms of foot problems include feeling a burning sensation, feeling “pins and needles” frequently, corns and toenail problems.

Individuals diagnosed with diabetes who experience the following should contact a physician immediately:

• Open wounds and any ulcers.
• Areas of bluish/black skin.
• Ingrown toe nails with or without discharge.
• Red and hot skin (may include swelling)

About the Comprehensive Wound Healing Center at Griffin Hospital

The Comprehensive Wound Healing Center helps patients with chronic, non-healing wounds by offering highly effective treatment for a variety of chronic wounds, including: Diabetic foot ulcers; Radiation injury to tissue and bone; Compromised skin grafts; and Pressure ulcers. The Center provides a comprehensive range of services that are specifically designed to help promote wound healing, including:

• Extensive wound assessment

• Pain management

• Debridement

• Compression therapy

• Patient education

• Infection management

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Kids invited to read to Spirit Wednesday at Derby Neck Library

Spirit is ready to listen to young readers.

DERBY - Miss Kathy at Derby Neck Library will host another popular B.A.R.K. program at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23.
All ages are invited to drop in and BE A READING KID to a guest dog at the library, 307 Hawthorne Ave.

SPIRIT, who is a Newfoundland, is a great listener and will be here once again for children to read to. 

You can bring your own book or choose one of ours from the library. And if children simply want to stop in to just say hello and visit, that’s cool too.

No registration is needed. Just drop in.

This info is shared from a Facebook event page.