Recuperation journey: Looking at the sky

This evening's sunset seen from below the Commodore Hull Bridge over the Housatonic River in Derby. 
Daughter Allegra participated in the Connecticut Hurricanes' Neon Glows Color Run on the Derby Greenway and I was lucky enough to witness an amazing sunset while waiting for her to finish. 

The Derby Greenway offers a lovely view of the spectacular sunset. 

I had to stop the car on the way home to get a photo of the sky's changing colors. 

Rochelle announces increase in education funds for Ansonia, Derby

HARTFORD - State Rep. Kara Rochelle, D-Ansonia and Derby, announced Friday the state budget approved Monday night provides an increase in ECS funding for Ansonia and Derby’s education systems.
Ansonia will receive an increase of $605,415 each year, equaling an increase of over $1.8M over the next two years.
Derby will experience an increase of $414,815 each of the next two years, equalling an increase of over $1.2M in ECS funding.

“As promised, education funding will continue to increase from the state for our schools in Ansonia and Derby,” Rochelle said. “Additionally, as both cities are Alliance Districts, these ECS funds are protected by Alliance statutes, meaning that the increased state funds are protected from supplanting and must be used toward initiatives to improve educational outcomes for our children, while towns are held responsible to maintain their foundational educational obligations.” 

The state also settled a lawsuit that was a major liability for the state of Connecticut. It allows small hospitals like Griffin - the 104th District's largest employer - to have stronger long-term financial stability, and is a settlement supported by CT Hospital Association.

Rochelle also successfully secured funding for Ansonia High School students who want to pursue an Advanced Manufacturing Certificate Program offered in Derby. 

“Another important priority was to give our students the necessary skills to compete for the 12,000 open advanced manufacturing jobs in Connecticut, one of the state’s largest growing fields. By securing this funding for Ansonia students, we are providing pathways to good paying, stable jobs with room for career advancement. Derby students similarly attended the Advanced Manufacturing Program with no tuition charged to the school district in the first year, I made sure to secure the same opportunity for the Ansonia School District,” Rochelle said.

The 2019 Legislative Session ended Wednesday. Rochelle will host a series of events this month to update the public on legislative initiatives enacted this session.

This is a press release from Rochelle's office.

Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce to host Golf Classic in Orange

Funds raised by this event are used to further the Chamber's mission of creating a strong local economy, promoting the Greater Valley region, advocating on behalf of local businesses, and connecting area business people.

If you are interested in sponsorship or donation opportunities call the Chamber, 203-925-4981.

Learn Reiki in workshop at Griffin Hospital in Derby

Contributed photo

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will host a Reiki Level 1 Workshop from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 21 at the hospital.
Reiki Master Eileen Carino, R.N.-BC, MA, ADS, will teach the basic concepts of Reiki, allowing ample time for hands-on practice. 
Reiki is a complementary healing method based on ancient healing practices that involves the conscious direction of healing energy through the practitioner's hands. 
When channeled properly, this energy relieves energy blockages to the body and bring balances to the energy fields thereby promoting healing on all levels.
The cost is $125, including certificate and Reiki book. 
Griffin Hospital employees and current volunteers can register at the discounted rate of $25.
Workshop space is limited; preregistration is required by June 18. The hospital is at 130 Division St.

To register, contact Laura Murphy, Planetree Services Supervisor,  203-732-7466.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Derby Public Library to celebrate June 19 birthday of H. Harcourt Wood

Holton Harcourt Wood is the young boy in whose memory Derby Public Library was built.
Each year on June 19 the Library staff invites the community to celebrate Wood's birthday.

The Library will be decorated with flowers in compliance with his father, Col. H. Holton Wood's request, which he made at the dedication of the Library in 1902.

For information call 203-736-1482.

Local history presentation slated at Derby Public Library

DERBY - Joseph DiRienzo will present "Deciphering Derby History" at 6:30 p.m. July 1 at Derby Public Library, 313 Elizabeth St.

DiRienzo shares some of the more unusual historical topics and images from his research of the past to understand the historical events, figures, businesses, and structures that shaped the evolution of Derby.

Registration required at https://bit.ly/2XquYE3 or by calling 203-736-1482.


*This is shared from the Derby Public Library Facebook page.

Shelton Libraries to hold summer reading program for children, teens

Shelton Library System photo

SHELTON - A Summer Reading Program will run from June 15 through Aug. 3 at Plumb Memorial Library and Huntington Branch Library.

The theme is: "Looking Back at Our Past, Looking Forward to Our Future!"

Children entering Kindergarten through Grade 8 are welcome to register in-person ONLY at both libraries beginning at 10 a.m. June 15.
School-aged (Children K-8) will calculate the amount of time they read to earn raffle tickets for a chance at prizes! Plus 5th through 8th graders can "double-dip" by participating in both this program & TEEN Summer Reading Programs! Last day to enter raffle tickets will be Aug. 2 at 4 p.m. at both Shelton libraries .

TEENs entering 5th-12th Grades are welcome to begin to register in-person ONLY at both Shelton Libraries at 10 a.m. June 15.
For every hour you read, you can earn a Golden Ticket.
Tickets will provide a chance to win a weekly prize and also be entered into raffle for a GRAND prize! 

Last day to enter Golden Tickets is Aug. 2 at 4 p.m. at both Shelton libraries.

This is shared from the Shelton Library System Facebook page.