Thursday, February 26, 2026

Recuperation journey 2.0: Looking at the sky


 Nature gave us a beautiful sunset today after giving us too much white this week.

Derby Public Library offers annual scholarship; essay required


As Derby High School seniors begin applying to colleges and universities we would like to remind students that the Derby Public Library Annual Scholarship is open for submissions!
The theme of this year's essay is “The Role of Libraries In My Life.”
Tell us how libraries have made an impact on your life and submit by April 3. We encourage students to write from the heart in their own words. We're excited to see what stories you all have to tell us! Good luck!
High school seniors may submit entries to the attention of the Library Director, Marianne Smertiuk at dplreference@biblio.org


Griffin Hospital in Naugatuck to hold open house for practical nursing

 


NAUGATUCK - The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers will host an open house for its rewarding Practical Nursing program March 5 from 5-7 p.m. at the school’s Naugatuck campus, 1186 New Haven Road.

The school’s 14-month PN Program offers an exceptional teaching experience at the only hospital-based program in the state of Connecticut.

With knowledgeable and experienced teachers who are nationally certified or master’s prepared nurses and real-world clinical rotations at Griffin Hospital, Stamford Hospital, Masonicare, and Gaylord Hospital, the PN program prepares new nurses to thrive in a multitude of complex clinical practice settings.

The 6,000-square foot Naugatuck Campus is designed to provide the school’s PN students with an experiential learning environment featuring state-of-the-art simulation technology that is incorporated in realistic laboratories for nursing students to practice as if they are in actual clinical situations. The experience enables a smooth transition from classroom to the practice setting, and from student to proficient caregiver.

The PN program is approved by the State of CT Board of Examiners for Nursing and has a 100% licensure test pass rate, leading many graduates to immediate job placement. The school can also connect students with several academic funding opportunities upon request.

Reservations are required by calling 203-732-1276 or emailing PNprogram@griffinhealth.org.

About the School of Allied Health Careers
Approved by the Connecticut Office of Higher of Education and the State of Connecticut Department of Health, the Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers offers advanced hands-on training and personalized teaching in its Practical Nursing, Certified Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Medical Assistant, and Phlebotomy programs. 
The school has helped graduates achieve a high rate of success on national certification exams and has a strong job placement rate with most graduates quickly finding positions at area hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and medical practices.
Anyone 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED may apply for admission. Early application is encouraged for all courses, as space is limited. 
For more information or to apply, call 203-732-1276 or 203-732-7578 or visit griffinhealth.org/school.


This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Plumb Memorial Library in Shelton to hold winter clothing drive


 

Nominations sought for members of Derby Hall of Fame



Shared from Derby 350 Facebook page:

"We've been posting information looking back at the current members of the Derby Hall of Fame, but it's also time to look forward and to think about new members of the Hall.
"The committee will be meeting soon to select new members in time for Derby's 351st birthday on May 13, and they are always looking for new nominations.
"Check out the criteria for membership and submit your own nominees for the 20th anniversary class at https://electronicvalley.org/derby/HallofFame/index.htm "



Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Derby Neck Library to show movie 'Cinderella' Thursday


Family Movie Night Tomorrow!
Our family movie night got cancelled two months in a row, so we are bringing it to you Thursday, February 26 at 4 p.m.!
Bookflix is a Family Fun Night that shows movies based on books for the whole family, providing a movie theater experience complete with popcorn, drinks, and snacks, free of charge!
Drop in tomorrow at 4 p.m. to watch this month's film, the 1997 Rodgers and Hammerstein adaptation of Cinderella.


The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave., Derby. 

Seymour Oxford Food Bank seeks volunteers for new shifts


Join us at Seymour Oxford Food Bank and make a difference in our community! We’ve opened up several new shifts on new days to help us keep up with our growing demand.

Head on over to our sign up form here: https://signup.com/mobileweb/2.0/vspot.html...



Ansonia Police seeking public's help in locating man, 38

Giovanni Vazquez

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Police Department is looking for the public's assistance in locating Giovanni Vazquez, 38, who made statements of self harm. 

Vazquez is a white male 5'9" inches tall, 140 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen in the area of North State Street and Woodbridge Avenue wearing a black jacket, jeans and a green winter hat. 

Please do not approach Vazquez but call 911 or the local police to report his location.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the police department at 203-735-1885 or anonymous tips can be left at Tip411 at the link below.
https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?alert_group_id=21553



Griffin Health in Oxford to offer gut-healthy cooking demonstrations



OXFORD – In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness and National Nutrition months, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road is hosting a series of free series of cooking demonstrations to help individuals improve their well-being and care for their digestive systems this March.


Held every Tuesday in March from 5-6:15 p.m. at the Center’s Teaching Kitchen, these cooking classes will explore how to make meals that fuel the body, support healthy digestion, build strength, and bring people together. 

Each class features ways to make informed food choices, rooted in evidence-based patterns like the Mediterranean Diet, that can improve health, energy, and overall well-being while honoring culture, community, and enjoyment.


Food as Fuel, featuring teriyaki chicken stir-fry over brown rice, will be March 3. Food as Medicine, featuring roasted tofu, root vegetables and chickpeas with a creamy Greek yogurt sauce, will be March 10. Food for Strength, featuring lemon-herb quinoa bowl with chicken, will be March 17. Food that Connects Us, featuring veggie-packed fried rice, will be March 24, and The Mediterranean Diet, featuring Greek chicken bowl with couscous, will be March 31.


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.

Beacon Falls Public Library to hold animal program Saturday


Get ready for lots of fun this Saturday (2/28)! Our rescheduled Kritter Pet Kreations visit is at 10 a.m. (RSVP required- space is limited)
If you are currently registered and are unable to make the new date, please let us know so that we can make your tickets available.
Book Bundles for the Laurel Ledge Read-A-Thon will also be available - check out a bundle or make your own and get entered into a prize drawing!
We'll also have crafts, snacks, and play time in the Library from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Shared from the Library's Facebook page.

St. Mary's Church in Derby to hold corned beef dinner March 14


 

Snow closes Greater Valley Salvation Army today in Ansonia


ANSONIA - Due to the snow, we [at Greater Valley Salvation Army] had to close on Wednesday.
We will be open tomorrow (Thursday) from 12-3 p.m.
All appointments will be 2 hours behind - if you had a 10 a.m. appointment, please come at 12 p.m.
If you missed your appointment because of the snow, you’re welcome to come in on Friday instead. The Salvation Army is at 26 Lester St.
Thank you for your patience and understanding!

Derby Public Library to open at noon today, Feb. 25


 

Derby Neck Library to open at noon today, Feb. 25


 

Derby 350 Plaque of the Week features Storm Engine Company No. 2


St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop in Derby closed today


DERBY - We [at St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop and Food Bank] are closed again today. We will be reaching out to all of those who missed appointments due to the weather these last 3 days. 

Thank you for your understanding.


Shared from the nonprofit's Facebook page. 


Tuesday, February 24, 2026

From the photo archives: Looking at the sky


 Sunset memory from this date in 2014.

Derby Neck Library cancels Let's Play Tuesdays program


ANNOUNCEMENT:
The library has resumed normal hours, with the following notices:
The front entrance is closed due to freezing hazards until further notice.
Today's Let's Play Tuesdays program is CANCELLED.
Sorry for any inconvenience, and have a great day!

Shared from the Library's Facebook page.

'Turnback Tuesday' highlights fan advertising The Sterling Piano Co. in Derby




Turnback Tuesday is highlighting another advertising item. This week we are sharing a recent donation of a hand fan from The Sterling Piano Co. The fan advertises not only the Sterling Co. but also the music store that sells the products made by Sterling, in this case from York, Pa.
Sterling Co. was founded by Charles Sterling in 1866. Because of their excellent workmanship Sterling Pianos were so well built there are many still in existence and played today.
Fan donated by Robert Ahearn.


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

Derby Public Library partners in live stream today with author


Take part in our conversation with Tom Crouch about the trials, errors, and incredible legacy of the Smithsonian’s foundation. Tuesday, February 24 at 2 p.m. ET via digital live-stream in partnership with Derby Public Library!

Register and submit questions for the author here: https://libraryc.org/derbyctlibraries/108102/register

City of Ansonia issues Code Red Alert, parking ban lifted


This is a Code Red Alert from the City of Ansonia. 

As of noon on Tuesday, the full parking ban has been lifted. 

The City of Ansonia will still be following the normal winter parking rules. The plowing and cleaning of streets is expected to take multiple days to complete and the State is expected to receive more snow tomorrow. 

Roadways have been narrowed due to the large amount of snow on the streets. If you have the ability, you are requested to find alternate parking and not park on the street, especially those that are narrow. 

When parking on city streets, you cannot park your vehicle if it will block other vehicles from driving on the street. Again, remember that streets have been narrowed by the multiple snow storms. 

Please follow the Board of Education for updates on school opening for Wednesday. If you are parked in a Board of Education lot, please remove your vehicle immediately so that the Board of Education can clear the lots in preparation for opening. 

Remember that residents and businesses are responsible for shoveling the sidewalks in front of their homes or businesses. Do not throw snow into the roadway. Thank you for your patience as this cleanup continues.

Thank you, City of Ansonia 

Ansonia Police Department hiring certified officers

 

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop in Derby closed today


**UPDATE** We will be closed Tuesday. See you Wednesday!! Mother Nature put on quite a show! But we have some spectacular sales for our shortened week!
We are eagerly collecting hams, canned pineapple rings, and all non-perishables for Easter!


Shared from the nonprofit's Facebook page.


Trivia Night on tap at Tipsy Tomato to benefit Master's Table in Derby


 

Monday, February 23, 2026

Derby posts winter storm updates





 

Parking ban in Ansonia extended until noon Tuesday


*Posted by Ansonia Police at 12:18 p.m. today [Monday]. 


The snow storm is still ongoing. The snow is beginning to move out of the state but is expected to be here for the next couple of hours. The city has received over a foot of snow and public works crews are working on getting roadways opened.

Residents are asked to please limit their driving on city roads because it is impeding road crews and emergency personnel from performing their functions.

The full parking ban is still in effect. The full parking ban is being extended until tomorrow at noon. Again, the full parking ban is in effect and is being extended until noon on Tuesday. Any vehicle parked on a city street is subject to ticketing and towing at the owner’s expense.

All residents must remove their vehicles from the street to assist with plowing and emergency services. All city parking lots including municipal lots, parks, Nolan Field and Board of Education lots will remain open for resident parking. Vehicles parked in the school lots should be removed at the end of the parking ban as the roads are cleared.

Please remember to assist your neighbors and make sure that your vehicles are off the road. If you have a fire hydrant in front of your residence or building, please assist the fire department in removing snow from around the fire hydrant.

A determination on the resumption of trash pickup will be made later this afternoon and a notice will be sent this evening.

Ansonia Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday, February 24th.

All city buildings will be closed on Tuesday except for essential personnel.

Please remember that it is essential that all vehicles are removed from city streets during the parking ban.

Please remember to clear your furnace vents and help your neighbors.

Please refrain from throwing snow into the roadways which will cause plowed roads to become clogged and unpassable. Residents face fines for throwing snow into the roadways. This includes residents that hire private contractors to plow driveways.

Further updates will be sent as needed.


St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop in Derby closed today


From St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop in Derby: 

Be careful shoveling and look out for your neighbors. ❤️ Hopefully we will be open tomorrow.


Derby Public Library closed today


 

Seymour Public Library slates toddler fun Thursday


SEYMOUR - Seymour Public Library will offer 30 minutes of stories and songs for toddlers 18 months-3 years' old at 10:30 a.m. Thursday. 

Older and younger siblings are welcome! The Library is at 46 Church St.



Sunday, February 22, 2026

Congrats to Ansonia cheer team on winning the NVL championship

From Ansonia Public Schools Sunday:

ANSONIA - Congratulations to our cheer team on winning the NVL Championship! 

This is the first time in school history that we have earned this title. Coach Jen has now won every championship during her tenure, including State and New England Championships.

Great job, ladies!

Snow forecast closes Boys & Girls Club in Shelton Monday


 

Master's Table to offer meal March 8 at Assumption Church Hall in Ansonia


 

Tax forms available at Derby Public Library


Reminder! Derby Public Library has Tax Forms available on our main floor but we would like to remind our patrons that library staff can NOT help fill out personal tax information.

The Library is at 313 Elizabeth St., Derby.

Derby Hall of Famer of the Week: Rev. John Bowers


Though we have no picture of Our Hall of Famer of the Week, he might be described as the most important name in the legal establishment of Derby by the legislature.

Back then, your area had to support a minister before the state would formally recognize you.

Read more about Rev. John Bowers https://electronicvalley.org/.../HallofFame/bowers,john.htm


Shared from the Derby 360 Facebook page.

Purple Pantry in Ansonia stocked with food



ANSONIA - The Purple Pantry is stocked with some delicious food to help you through the upcoming storm! 

Stop by and grab what you need to keep your family warm, nourished, and prepared. Stay safe and take care of one another.


Shared from the Valley YMCA Facebook page. 

Derby Police arrest 2 on DUI charges


DERBY - Police arrested two men Thursday on charges of Driving Under the Influence following separate motor vehicle stops conducted within the city.
Both arrests occurred as a result of proactive traffic enforcement efforts.
Arrested were:
• Henry Gibbs (DOB 11/17/1985) of West Haven
• Iesha Gonzalez (DOB 5/10/1991) of Bridgeport
Derby PD remains committed to targeted motor vehicle enforcement to improve roadway safety for everyone who lives in, works in, or travels through our community. Impaired driving puts lives at risk — not only the driver’s, but passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists.
If you choose to drink, plan ahead:
• Designate a sober driver
• Use a rideshare service
• Stay where you are
If you observe reckless driving or suspect a driver may be intoxicated:
📞 Call 911 for emergencies
📞 Call 203-735-7811 for routine, non-emergency reports
Our officers will continue conducting traffic enforcement details and routine patrols focused on identifying unsafe driving behaviors.
Keeping Derby’s roads safe remains a priority and enforcement action will be taken when violations occur.
Drive responsibly.

Shared from the Derby PD Facebook page.