Thursday, December 31, 2020

TEAM, Inc. offers information on COVID-19 response program

 

How Can We Help You?
If you are interested in applying or find out more about CSBG programs...call 203-736-5420.


Shared from TEAM's Facebook page.

Oxford Public Library to host virtual wreath-making activity


OXFORD - The Oxford Public Library will host a virtual adult craft night at 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Participants can make a “Winter Scarf Wreath” design for a door hanger for after the holidays.
Materials are provided; space is limited to 10.

For information contact Dawn Higginson, 203-888-6944 ext. 2,  dhigginson@oxfordlib.org.

There are 4 spaces available.


Derby Neck Library to offer 3D-printed models to decorate



DERBY - Looking for a new hobby to pass the winter months? Why not try decorating some 3D-printed models?! 
Derby Neck Library is hosting a 3D-printing activity from 10 a.m. to  8 p.m. Monday and each month there will be a a different theme for you to choose a model from. 
We'll print it on our 3D printer, then you can pick it up via curbside pickup, bring it home, and paint it! 
Send us a picture of your completed work of art for a chance to make a request for a personal print job!
This month's theme is Among Us! You'll get your own little bean that comes apart with guts and all! 
Give us a call at 203-734-1492 or send us a message on Facebook to make your request for one of these options. 
These figures are made-to-order, prepped, sanded, and primed, so there is at least a 48-hour lead time between when your order is confirmed and when you can pick it up. 
After your new friend is ready, we'll contact you to schedule your curbside pickup!
For info on curbside pick-up, please click here: https://derbynecklibrary.org/update/
To see a time-lapse of the 3D printing process, click here: https://www.facebook.com/52838817108/videos/192632342404975 
The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.

This is shared from the Library's Facebook event page.


Wednesday, December 30, 2020

Recuperation journey: Full moon Day 2


Today the moon is 100 percent illumination. On Thursday it will be in waning gibbous phase, illuminated 98 percent.

Have a peaceful evening!


Shelton Library System offers Animal Crossing for Teens, Tweens













Tweens/teens 11+ can join Miss Jessica at 2 p.m. Thursday on her Animal Crossing island to trade fossils/DIYs, dive for creatures, fish, catch bugs, and more!

***Patrons must have a Nintendo Switch, a copy of Animal Crossing, and an active internet connection for the Nintendo Switch in order to participate***



This is shared from the Library's Facebook post.

Ansonia Police seek suspect in purse snatching in Stop & Shop parking lot

 

ANSONIA - Police responded to a report of a purse snatching at 11:55 a.m. Monday in the parking lot of Stop & Shop, 100 Division St., Lt. Patrick Lynch said Wednesday in a release. 


The female victim was in the parking lot putting groceries in her car when a male approached and grabbed her purse. 

After a brief struggle, the male was able to take the purse from the victim. 

The male suspect fled in a black 2008 Lexus IS with Massachusetts registration 6NS242, the car had been previously reported stolen to the Orange Police Department. 

The male suspect was described as a black male in his 20s, 5’6” tall wearing dark clothing, Lynch said. There was a possible three more people in the stolen Lexus.

 

The department is asking anyone with information to please contact 203-735-1885 or tips can be left anonymously through TIP 411 at the link below.

https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?alert_group_id=21553



This is a press release from the Ansonia Police Department.

Drive-by food drive at St. Jude Church in Derby to support St. Vincent De Paul pantry


 

Recuperation journey: Looking at the sky


... at 7:10 a.m. 

Have a great Wednesday!

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

Recuperation journey: Looking at the sky

Full moon! 




 

'Turnback Tuesday' features Derby furniture maker, dealer











Turnback Tuesday visits another business from Derby: Summers & Lewis, a Furniture Manufacturer/Dealer/Undertaker at 68 Main St. 

It was started some time before 1872 by Stephen N. Summers & Levi C. Lewis. They operated a successful business until Levi Lewis passed away in 1882. Stephen changed the name to S. N. Summers’ until his passing in 1884. 

This picture is of Stephen’s business/calling card. It measures 3 ¼” x 2 7/8”.


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

Griffin Hospital staff to hold forum today via Zoom on COVID vaccine

Griffin Hospital in Derby.

Shared from the City of Ansonia Facebook page:

Ansonia Mayor David S. Cassetti invites you to participate in a community conversation with Griffin Hospital staff and physicians regarding the new COVID vaccine.
Have questions? Concerns? Join us at 5 p.m. today via ZOOM.
Access information is listed below.
Topic: Mayor Cassetti - Griffin Hospital Forum
Time: Dec 29, 2020 05:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Meeting ID: 995 0990 9881
Passcode: 907691
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,99509909881# US (New York)

My Sister's Place Thrift Store in Ansonia posts this week's sales


My Sister's Place Thrift Store and Donation Center is located at 380 Main St., Ansonia.

 All proceeds benefit BHcare's The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services. 


Klarides-Ditria: Libraries offer Eversource 'Kill-A-Watt' kits to monitor energy use




Connecticut residents in Eversource service territory can now check out a “Kill-A-Watt” kit from their local library to monitor their home energy use.

The kit includes a “Kill-A-Watt” meter and information to help homeowners and renters understand the three different types of electric use: plug, lighting, and mechanical.

With the help of a Kill-A-Watt meter and the Eversource educational booklet included in the kit, residents can measure and record the amount of electricity they’re consuming. The booklet also provides tips to help homeowners and renters reduce their energy use and electric costs.

“Kill-A-Watt” kits are available at Beacon Falls Public Library and Seymour Public Library. 

For additional information on ways to save energy, visit www.Eversource.com or call 877-WISE-USE (877-947-3873).




Sincerely,




This is a press release from Klarides-Ditria's office.

Shelton Library System announces New Year's schedule


SHELTON - We [at the Shelton Library System] wish you the best for the upcoming new year!
May we all have a happy and healthy 2021!
The hours for Plumb Memorial Library this week are:
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday: 9:00am-4:30pm
Thursday: 9:00am-3:00pm
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 10:00am-3:00pm
Curbside service is still available: https://sheltonlibrarysystem.org/
or call 203-924-1580.

Seymour Public Library posts New Year's closing schedule

 

Free virtual dementia care workshop slated for EMS providers


 

Recuperation journey: Looking at the sky

 
Afternoon moon at 3:50 p.m. Monday. The moon was in waxing gibbous phase, 97 percent illumination. 

Today we can look forward to a full moon!

Monday, December 28, 2020

Abundance of Joy Learning Center slated to open in Ansonia


ANSONIA - The Abundance of Joy Learning Center at 195 N. Main St. will open in January, Leslie Youngblood said today in a Facebook post.
"We have infants, toddlers, preschool slots open," she said.
"We offer school-aged hybrid model. If your children's school is closed or operating on two days a week schedule we are here to help."

Youngblood added, "We will set the children up for school 'learning hub' in our annex.


This information is shared from Leslie Youngblood's Facebook page.


Derby Neck Library to host virtual arts and crafts Tuesday for teens


DERBY - Tweens and teens are invited to join us [at Derby Neck Library] at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday over Zoom for arts and crafts like DIY pop sockets, duct tape wallets, jewelry, painting, and more!

Supply packs will be available via curbside pickup - call the library at 203-734-1492 to reserve yours! 
Email kwarrenger at derbynecklibrary.org or send us a message on social media to be added to the mailing list.

This is shared from the Library's Facebook page.

Wesley Village in Shelton recognizes health-care workers for excellence

From left: Timothy Herrick, Jake DeLucia, Hermin Gooden-Dawkins (not all award winners are pictured due to social distancing requirements)

Andrea Hyde
Lynda Ovesny


SHELTON - It’s no secret healthcare workers everywhere are being stretched to the limit in light of the many restrictions and regulations put in place by COVID-19, but even with the extra vigilance needed in keeping older adults safe, the team at Wesley Village continues to rise to the occasion.


The award-winning senior living campus has worked diligently day and night to fight off the entrance and spread of COVID-19 within their buildings and has seen team members of every department step up and take on additional roles and responsibilities of all kinds to help keep everyone safe. Whether that means taking temperatures at the front door and delivering meals to resident apartments, to leading virtual activities programs or sanitizing surfaces around the clock, the Wesley Village team has shown amazing commitment and dedication to supporting the health, independence, and dignity of every resident.


To celebrate the accomplishments of their team during these last nine months, the community gathered in October and November for several small group ceremonies to recognize team members for their years of service to Wesley Village and United Methodist Homes (UMH), the senior living provider organization that manages the campus. 

Team members Lori Bauer and Sharon White were honored for reaching milestones of 25 years, while Evelyn Rupsis and David Lawlor were recognized for 20 years of service.

Eleven team members were recognized for 10 and 15-year milestones, and another 21  employees celebrated five years of service with the organization.


In addition, 10 outstanding team members were recognized for the UMH “Values in Action” award, an award presented each year to team members who reflect the organization’s five core values of Respect, Excellence, Spirituality, Collaboration, and Stewardship in an extraordinary way. 

This year’s Values in Action winners were selected for their incredible commitment to the Mission and Values of United Methodist Homes and praised by their supervisors at each event. 


“The Values in Action Award is based on a peer nomination process,” said Marissa Salvesen, Manager of Mission Development for UMH. “This year we had so many employees stand out for their dedication in 2020 that it was very difficult to select our winners. With 150 nominations we decided to expand the award program to honor additional employees in response to such an unprecedented year.”


Award winners for 2020 included: Sreynin Chhoeun, Hermin Gooden-Dawkins, Jake DeLucia, Timothy Herrick, Andrea Hyde, Diana Mulroy, Lynda Ovesny, Maryann Porcadilla, Christopher Sonsini, and Stephen Sullivan. 


United Methodist Homes President and CEO David Lawlor said, “People are at the heart of United Methodist Homes and these individuals are just a few examples of the special culture of care that exists here at Wesley Village. We are so proud of our team for the courage they have displayed throughout this year.”


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 services. 

To learn more, visit www.wesleyvillage-ct.org.  



This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.


Saturday, December 26, 2020

Recuperation journey: Looking at the sky



... at 3:48 p.m. 

The moon today is in waxing gibbous phase, 88 percent illumination. The full moon is almost here.

Recuperation journey: Saturday sunrise

 

Good morning on the second day of Christmas!

  • Day 2 (26th December also known as Boxing Day): St Stephen’s Day. 
  • He was the first Christian martyr (someone who dies for their faith). 
  • It's also the day when the Christmas Carol 'Good King Wenceslas' takes place.
*This info is from www.whychristmas.com

Friday, December 25, 2020

Recuperation journey: Christmas sunset


Backyard view at 4:25 p.m. after a rainy, dreary weather day. 

Have a peaceful evening!


Merry, Merry, Happy, Happy

On Thursday I joined friends at Seymour Congregational Church to sing Christmas carols, which was a wonderful way to spend Christmas Eve.

Afterward I went across the street to take a photo of the beautiful Menorah lighting up the area around the gazebo at Broad Street Park.


And this is the beautiful tree that stands in  Veterans Memorial Park in Ansonia. 

Mayor David S. Cassetti hosted a virtual tree lighting earlier this month.


Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season to all! 


Rochelle recognizes youth leaders' fundraising to support TEAM's Toys 4 Kids



The members of the Valley United Way Youth Leadership Program have found creative and impactful ways to support TEAM's Annual Toys 4 Kids drive this season. 
The Valley United Way Youth Leadership came up with the idea to sell Quarantine Elf Mask Kits for $8. 
This was incredibly successful, raising $2,300 for Toys 4 Kids!

This is shared from a press release from state Rep. Kara Rochelle, D-Ansonia/Derby.

Congratulations to the youth leaders on their successful fundraiser!


Merry Christmas!


Ralph and I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas Day!

Thursday, December 24, 2020

Rochelle shares information on COVID-19 vaccine, flu shots

COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan

With the first COVID-19 vaccines being distributed and administered across the country and our state, we may finally be seeing the light at the end of what has been a long and difficult tunnel, state Rep. Kara Rochelle said in a written release.

How It Works
Through numerous rigorous tests and analyses, the Pfizer vaccine, which has already been administered to thousands of health care workers across the country, is considered both safe and effective. In addition, the vaccine developed by Moderna was approved by the FDA late last week for distribution in the U.S., and distribution of this vaccine is already underway.

Hartford Healthcare developed this helpful informational sheet below which explains the science behind the current COVID-19 vaccines.


While it is fantastic news that this vaccine looks to be effective and is in the early stages of being distributed across the country, we are not totally out of the woods. 
Doctors say that we will still have to wear masks and practice social distancing for the foreseeable future because it is still possible for people to carry light infections and pass it on to other individuals.




Vaccine Availability
The state recently released a framework of its plans for the distribution of an anticipated COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available.





Over the next two weeks, the Lamont administration says Connecticut is expected to receive around 130,000 doses, with the majority of doses going to healthcare workers at hospitals. Click HERE to see the distribution chart for the rest of this month.

New information about the vaccine continues to develop each day and plans for its distribution are expected to continue evolving as the situation develops. Information on the state’s distribution plans is being published online at ct.gov/covidvaccine.

As the state insurance commissioner reminded Connecticut residents, I also want to reiterate that there should be no out-of-pocket costs associated with taking the COVID-19 vaccine in Connecticut, both for those who are insured and uninsured. This eliminates one more barrier to ensuring that we get as many people vaccinated as possible and getting this virus under control.


I will continue to pass along updates related to the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine as it becomes more widely available. Meanwhile, let's all continue to do all we can to make sure we keep ourselves and our families safe and healthy, especially during the holidays.


NVHD offering flu shots for seniors




The Naugatuck Valley Health District is offering flu shots to individuals 65 years and older. 
To schedule an appointment, call nurse Kristie at 203-881-3255 ext. 107. 
Flu shots will be given without a copay to those with Medicare Part B, Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, and Connecticut insurance plans.


This is shared from a press release from state Rep. Kara Rochelle, D-Ansonia, Derby.

Ansonia Mayor Cassetti's chat with Santa via Zoom available to watch


 
In case you missed last night's epic Q/A session with Santa, here it is.
You can catch the FREE rebroadcast of the Zoom meetup. Watch Santa take the time out of his busy schedule to answer the kids' toughest questions. It's a fun and informative Christmas experience...even for you non-believers!
Enjoy and Have a Merry Christmas!

https://zoom.us/.../eyPIUwiobYoGzuJLc9d5IbJvi4MSOk317W9yg...


Derby Public Library staff is hunting for local history


 

Recuperation journey: Winter solstice sunset

 
Have a peaceful Christmas Eve.


Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Derby Historical Society to benefit from grocery bag program in January

ANSONIA - The Derby Historical Society has been selected as the beneficiary of the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program.
Each time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag
is purchased at the Stop & Shop at Division Street in Ansonia during the month of January 2021, the Derby Historical Society will receive a $1 donation.

 

Beacon Falls Library curbside pickup to close at noon Thursday


 

Derby Neck Library announces holiday schedule

 

Shelton Library System posts hours for Christmas week


 

Oxford Library to host musician's virtual tour of the history of rock and roll


Shared from an Oxford Library Facebook event page:

Join us at 2 p.m. Jan. 30 for a virtual 90-minute tour of the History of Rock and Roll with author and musician Craig Harris. Sign up at www.tinyurl.com/OxfordCTLibrary. Harris is a musician, teacher, author, photographer, and host of a weekly online show on Bluegrass Country.

Harris has taught and written about music for more than four decades. 
His latest book "Bluegrass, Newgrass, Old-time and Americana Music" was published in 2018. He’s also the author of "The Band: Pioneers of Americana Music" (2014) and "Heartbeat, Warble and the Electric Powwow: American Indian Music" (2016), as well as music-oriented reviews, articles and photos for newspapers, magazines, and websites.
His passion for music, however, goes beyond the printed word. 
A skilled percussionist/drummer, he has played with C.J. Chenier, Melanie, Rod MacDonald, Jonathan Edwards, Greg Brown, Merl Saunders, and Rick Danko (The Band). In addition to working with an acoustic Americana group (Two Days Jeans), he’s been a member of the Gaea Star Band (with whom he co-hosts a syndicated weekly radio show) since 2014.

Derby Neck Library to host virtual bed time story time


Sharing from the Library's Facebook event page:

"Get your jammies on and join Miss Krissy [at 7 p.m. Jan. 27] for a short and sweet bed time story right here on our Facebook page.

"This stream is intended for young children and will feature quiet music and stories with stretching and breathing exercises."