Seymour Congregational Church to hold Field of Flags blessing ceremony

SEYMOUR - Join us for a meaningful and moving ceremony as we honor those who have served.

As part of our Field of Flags tradition, we will gather for a special blessing and plaque dedication ceremony, lifting up the names and stories of veterans from our community.

 Honor a Loved One
Plaques may be purchased for $5 through the church office in honor of someone who served. During the ceremony, plaques will be dedicated and names will be read aloud.

We are honored to be joined by Emil Senger Post 10, who will help lead this time of remembrance and gratitude.

 A sacred moment of reflection
A tribute to service and sacrifice
 A community remembering together

Join us for this very special ceremony as we give thanks, remember, and honor.

The church is at 45 Broad St.

Bingo at Tipsy Tomato in Derby to benefit Master's Table Community Meals

 

Ansonia Senior Center to host seminar on transference

 

Car wash at Hilltop Hose Co. 5 in Ansonia to support firefighter

 

The Great Give starts at 8 a.m. today; Valley Indy posts livestream schedule

Sharing from the Valley Independent Sentinel: 

The Great Give is an annual online fundraiser created by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven. 

Last year’s Great Give raised $4.4 million. Almost 600 area nonprofit groups participated. 

This year’s Great Give starts 8 a.m. today (May 6) and ends 8 p.m. May 7.

The Valley Indy will be live on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and ValleyIndy.org interviewing local nonprofit leaders and Valley newsmakers. About 60 Valley groups are participating in this year’s Great Give. 

Click here for the list, with links to each Valley participant’s Great Give donation page.

Click Donate.ValleyIndy.org to support The Valley Indy. We’re trying to raise $10,000 in 36 hours. 

The Valley Indy will be live from about 8 a.m. until about 12 a.m. on day one, and from about 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. on day two.

Here is The Valley Indy 2026 Great Give schedule (and ‘prizes’ offered by the organizers):

Wednesday, May 6

8 a.m. 
We go live!

Early Bird Prize
Any org that gets at least one donation between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. could win an extra $1,000.

Black Futures Fund Early Bird
Any org eligible for funding from the Black Futures Fund that gets at least one donation between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. could win an extra $1,000.

9 a.m.
Tom Simonetti, Valley Shakespeare Festival

10 a.m.
Kayleigh Mihalko, The Electronic Valley

Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven Prize for Disability Services
The org working in disability services with most unique donors between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. will win $1,8000.

11 a.m.
Vinny LaRocca, Master’s Table Community Meals

12 p.m.
Gino DiGiovanni, Sterling Opera House Commission

Lunch Hour Double Draw
Any org receiving at last one donation between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. could win an extra $500 or $1,000.

Black Futures Fund Lunch Hour
Any org eligible for funding from the Black Futures Fund receiving at last one donation between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. could win an extra $1,500 or $1,000.

1 p.m.
LUNCH

2 p.m.
David Pyrch and Danny Staffieri of the CT Hurricanes

3 p.m. 
Kristina Walton of the Seymour Oxford Food Bank

‘Getting Ready Prize’ 
Any Valley-based organization with at least 25 donors between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. could get an extra $1,000.

4 p.m.
Derby High School valedictorian Carter Ruggiero and salutatorian Sara Poric

4:30 p.m.
Tanaya Henry of Traveler on a Mission (pre-recorded interview)

5 p.m. 
Jen Shuart, Ansonia Library

Happy Hour Double Draw
Any org that gets at least one donation between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. could get an extra $500 or $1,000.

Black Futures Fund Happy Hour

Any org eligible for funding from the Black Futures Fund that gets at least one donation between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. could get an extra $1,500 or $1,000.

6 p.m.
DINNER

7 p.m.

Valley Indy Live News Trivia!
Six Valley news questions: first caller successfully answering a question wins a Valley Indy coffee mug!

Vote With Your Gift
The org that gets the most donations between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. could get an extra $1,000!

8 p.m.
Rick Dunne, Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments

Bank of America Power Hour for the Performing Arts Match
Bank of America is providing a $5,000 matching pool for donations to small performing arts orgs between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.

9 p.m.
David Salinas, Hi! People

10 p.m.
Maria Blackwell, Derby Elks

11 p.m. until we pass out
Let’s watch YouTube!

Late night ‘prizes:’

Midnight Snack Prize: the organization which gets a donation closest to 12 a.m. gets $500. Complicated because it’s judged by the time the donation hits the GiveGab system.

Insomnia Draw: any org receiving at least one donation between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. could get an extra $1,000

Six-Seven Prize: Any org with at least one donation between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. could get an extra $1,000.

Thursday, May 7

9 a.m.
Remy Kocurek of St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shoppe & Pantry

9:30 a.m.
Shannon Bullard and Jessica Nunez of Seymour Food 2 Kids

Early Bird
Any org getting at least one donation between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. could get an extra $1,000.

Black Futures Fund Early Bird
Any org eligible for funding from the Black Futures Fund getting at least one donation between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. could get an extra $1,000.

10 a.m.
Susan Agamy of Spooner House
Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven Prize for Youth Educational Enrichment

The org working in youth education with most unique donors between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. will win $1,8000.

11 a.m.
Sara Pereiras of Bunlandia

12 p.m.
LUNCH

Lunch Hour Double Draw
Any org receiving donations between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. could get an extra $500 or $1,000

Black Futures Fund Lunch Hour
Any org eligible for funding from the Black Futures Fund receiving at last one donation between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. could win an extra $1,500 or $1,000.

1 p.m.
Derby Mayor Joseph DiMartino and finance director Brian Hall

2 p.m.
Ansonia High School senior Weston Ahearn 

3 p.m.
Valley Community Foundation

Vote With Your Gift
The org with the most donations between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. could receive an extra $1,000

4 p.m.
Seymour Police Chief John Bucherati

5 p.m.
State Rep. Kara Rochelle

Last Call Happy Hour 
Any org that receives donations between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. could receive an extra $1,000 or $1,500.

Black Futures Fund Last Call Happy Hour
Any org eligible for funding from the Black Futures Fund that gets at least one donation between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. could get an extra $2,000 or $1,500.

6 p.m.
DINNER

7 p.m.
TBA

VCF Getting Ready Prize
Org receiving the most donations between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. could get an extra $1,000.

8 p.m.
Great Give ends!  

Learn hand sewing, mending at Huntington Branch Library workshop

SHELTON - Registration is now open for the Darning and Decorating Workshop with Rebecca at the Huntington Branch Library!

Adult patrons can join us on June 10 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. to learn how to repair and decorate clothing with style! All materials will be provided, registration is required.

Register here: https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=2661...

Shared from the Shelton Library System Facebook page.

Help Stamp Out Hunger Saturday during letter carrier food drive

 

Shelton Clean-Up Project schedules 3 events in May

 

'Turnback Tuesday' highlights minstrel show at Jewish Community Center

Turnback Tuesday is highlighting a Minstrel Show held at the Ansonia Synagogue in the Jewish Community Center. The Jewish Community Center started in 1932 to meet the social needs of all Valley Jews.

This image was taken approximately 1949-1950. We have most of the names of these talented ladies, but are missing two.

1st row: Diane Gibralter, Bernice Benjamin, Minna Bergner, Adele Silverberg, Sylvia Levine

2nd row: Evelyn Gans, Lillian Barron, Aga Sherman, Shirley Steinman, Lilliam Berman, Anne Linett Goldberg, Marion Litsky, Claire Brown, ? , Diana Kreiger, Bernie Yale

3rd row: Thelma Komisar, Ida Gordon, Billie Szanton, ? , Marion Savelewitz, Marion Gampel, Adele Blumenthal, Marsha Splaver, Francis Savitsky, Minna Blume, Sophie Liftig, Belle Savitt, Mary Blume, Faye Kaplan, Jean Schpero.

If anyone has any other information about this image, please contact Christine Boulay at cboulay@biblio.org. 

This image is a recent donation by an anonymous donor. 

Thanks goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host Level 1 Reiki workshop June 2

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will host a Reiki Level 1 Workshop June 2 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Reiki is a complementary healing method rooted in ancient practices that involves the intentional direction of energy through the practitioner’s hands. 

When channeled properly, this energy relieves energy blockages to the body and brings balance to the energy fields thereby promoting healing on all levels.

Reiki Master Nancy Corvigno will teach the basic concepts of Reiki, allowing ample time for hands-on practice.

The workshop cost for the public is $150, which includes completion certificate and Reiki book. 

Griffin Hospital employees and current volunteers can register at the rate of $25. Payment must be cash or check, and is due upon enrollment.

Workshop participants from the general public are required to become a Griffin Health volunteer, and are expected to give 100 hours of service prior to receiving their Reiki completion certificate.

Workshop space is limited, and preregistration is required by May 29. To register, contact Wendy Farrington at 203-732-7434.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Annual Scout Gang Show slated Saturday at Derby Methodist Church

 For tickets see any Pack 3, Troop 3, or Crew 33 Scout or call 203-732-0343.

Derby Public Library posts adult/teen programs for May

 

Weight-loss group meets weekly at Huntington Congregational Church in Shelton

 

Recuperation journey 2.0: Looking at the sky

Backyard view at 7:45 p.m. today.

Puzzles, chess, magic on tap at Derby Neck Library

DERBY - Join us from 4:30-6 pm. Monday in the Teen Space at Derby Neck Library for a mix of brain teasers, strategy, and friendly competition! 

Here you can piece together giant jigsaw puzzles, sharpen your mind with Wordle and Sudoku, challenge a friend to regular chess or laser chess, or even dive into the world of Magic: The Gathering!

Whether you’re here to relax, think hard, or try something new, there’s always a challenge (and a new friend) waiting for you!

No registration required, but sign up for our Youth Services mailing list to stay in the loop on cancelations by clicking here.

The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.

Shared from the Library's website. 

Seymour Public Library to host drop-in Mother's Day craft table

SEYMOUR - Seymour Public Library has scheduled times this coming week when members of the public can drop-in to make a craft for Mother's Day. 

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 10.

The Library is at 46 Church St.

Derby Public Library offers free job search assistance

 

CT Foodshare truck to visit St. Mary's Church in Derby Tuesday

DERBY - The CT Foodshare truck will return to St. Mary’s Church parking lot Tuesday, May 5 from 2:15-3 p.m. 

Tickets will be distributed to everyone PHYSICALLY IN LINE at 2 p.m. No placeholding with bags and carts. No income limits, no questions asked....just bring a bag to receive some food. Next visit after that will be May 19.

 

Ansonia gardener's plant sales to benefit St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank in Derby

Our green-thumbed and generous pantry friend, Diane, is supporting St. Vincent de Paul with sales of her own greenhouse grown plants over the next two weekends - May 8 & 9, 15 & 16!

164 Hull St., Ansonia, noon-6 p.m.

Vegetables, herbs, flowers, hanging baskets, and multi-flower planters!

Come shop local while supporting our pantry! Thank you Diane!

Recuperation journey 2.0: Looking at the sky

Backyard view at 7:47 p.m. Have a peaceful evening.  
 

Seymour Pink to hold golf tournament at Hop Brook Golf Course in Naugatuck

The annual 9-hole tournament will be held at a new location, Hop Brook Golf Course in Naugatuck.

Master's Table to serve 2 meals in May at Huntington Congregational Church

 

Derby Public Library to host Mommy and Me program May 8

Derby Public Library is at 313 Elizabeth St., Derby.
 

Valley United Way to hold annual meeting, present Charles H. Flynn Award

Dear Friends, Valley United Way warmly invites you to join us for our Annual Meeting, an evening dedicated to celebrating the partners, donors, and volunteers who make our work possible. Each year, more than 200 business and community leaders come together for this special event—an opportunity to reflect on our collective impact and recognize those who help strengthen our Valley. Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 5:00 PM Courtyard by Marriott, Shelton During the evening, we will proudly present the Charles H. Flynn Humanitarian Award to Ramon Peralta, a visionary entrepreneur, community leader, and mentor. As Founder and Creative Director of Peralta Design, Ramon has built a mission-driven agency specializing in branding and digital strategy, while also dedicating his time to mentoring youth and supporting nonprofit initiatives across our region. His commitment to creativity, entrepreneurship, and community impact embodies the spirit of this award. We hope you’ll join us for an inspiring evening of connection, gratitude, and celebration. Purchase your tickets here!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Carlene at Carlene.Williams@valleyunitedway.org. We look forward to celebrating with you. Warm regards, Joy DeMarchis Board Chair Valley United Way

Seymour Community Center to host talk on history, benefits of tea

 

Recuperation journey 2.0: Looking at the sky

 

Tonight's sunset seen in Derby.

From the photo archives: Looking at the sky

 Backyard view on this date in 2022.

Fundraiser slated for Derby Shelton Rotary Flags for Heroes event

 

Griffin Health in Oxford to host women's health month cooking demos

OXFORD – In recognition of Women’s Health Month, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road is hosting a series of free cooking demonstrations to help women meet their unique nutritional needs across their lifespan this May.

Held every Tuesday in May from 5-6:15 p.m. at the Center’s Teaching Kitchen, these cooking classes will focus on hormone balance, heart health, bone strength, and overall well-being for women. 

Participants will learn how to prepare balanced, nutrient-dense meals that support energy, longevity, and disease prevention using practical, approachable cooking techniques.

Nourishing Hormone Health, which discusses the role of protein, healthy fats, and fiber in hormone regulation, and features a demonstration of Pesto Salmon and Quinoa and Asparagus Salad, will be May 5.

Heart Health for Women, which features Griffin Faculty Physicians General Surgeon Dr. Deepali Jain discussing heart disease risk in women and prevention strategies, and a demonstration of Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Herbed Farro & Mozzarella, will be May 12.

Bone Health & Strength, which features Griffin Faculty Physicians OB-GYN Dr. Rachel Bernstein discussing bone health across life stages and the importance of calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium, and a demonstration of Sesame Tofu Stir Fry, will be May 19.

Gut Health & Inflammation, which discusses the connection between gut health, immunity, and inflammation, and features a demonstration of Raspberry Chia Pudding and House-Made Basic Granola, will be May 26.

These events are free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. 

Visit 

www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. 

The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.