Plumb Memorial Library in Shelton displaying work of Milford artist Rick Senft

SHELTON - It's cold outside!! Come on in [to Plumb Memorial Library] and get warm while enjoying the beautiful artwork of Rick Senft.

His pieces are located on both floors, come on in and take a look!!

The Library is at 65 Wooster St.

Shared from the Shelton Library System Facebook page.

'Turnback Tuesday' features 'Palace of Sweets' in Derby, Ansonia

Turnback Tuesday remembers that delightful "Palace of Sweets", Vonetes Confections, specializing in Ice Cream.

It was started

in 1906 by Peter E. Vonetes at 242 Main St., Ansonia, with his brother, Harry, as a clerk.

By 1912, the success of the first shop inspired a second location to be opened at 262 Main St., Derby. The shops were a favorite for so many.

In the 1960s, Harry passed away and Peter retired.

The stores lived on for the next generation until the doors were closed in 1997, with the Derby location having been last owned by beloved Derby icon, Fran Terlizzi .

These images of a fan, which was common as a form of advertising in the early 1900s, are a recent donation from Robert Ahearn.

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

Griffin Health introduces robotic treatment for prostate condition

DERBY – Griffin Health is offering men an advanced, minimally invasive solution to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that affects 70% of men over age 60, that eliminates the need for long-term medication treatment and its associated side effects.

Aquablation is a revolutionary procedure that uses an ultrasound-guided, robotic-assisted waterjet to precisely target excess prostate tissue while safeguarding critical anatomy. This treatment offers faster, more effective symptom relief than traditional treatments for BPH.

“Aquablation is a person-centered and compassionate solution for men who want relief from the discomfort and embarrassment of BPH,” said Griffin Faculty Physicians Urologist Dr. Johnson Tsui. “This safe and effective therapy allows men to regain control and improve their quality of life in a matter of days instead of ongoing medication that can have life-changing side effects including dizziness, low blood pressure and sexual dysfunction.”

BPH is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that affects nearly all men as they age. The prostate surrounds the urethra, which directs urine out of the body. As men get older, hormonal changes can cause the prostate to grow. This can lead to considerable discomfort and, as the prostate presses on the urethra, disrupts urination.

Common symptoms of BPH include frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, weak or interrupted urine stream, and a feeling that the bladder isn’t fully empty.

Managing BPH symptoms can involve simple lifestyle changes like reducing fluids before bed, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and staying active. Individuals with BPH are commonly prescribed medications to relax or shrink the prostate. These medications can help, but often cause side effects like dizziness, sexual dysfunction, increased risk of falling, reduced cognitive function, or cardiovascular concerns. Additionally, medications often require ongoing daily use, and some patients may find that their symptoms persist or worsen over time despite treatment.

Aquablation therapy uses advanced ultrasound guided waterjets to deliver a high-velocity stream of water that precisely removes excess prostate tissue, offering faster, more significant symptom relief and reducing the need for long-term drug therapy. This technique is performed under visual guidance, allowing for targeted treatment with minimal damage to surrounding structures. Recovery is typically short and any needed hospital stays are brief.

Clinical studies have shown that waterjet-based therapy delivers superior outcomes compared to medication alone, with higher rates of symptom improvement and patient satisfaction as it preserves sexual function and continence better than many traditional procedures including the most common - Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). It is especially beneficial for men with larger prostates or those who have not responded to medications.

“If you are experiencing persistent urinary symptoms due to BPH and want a solution that goes beyond medication, this innovative approach may help you regain control and improve your quality of life,” said Dr. Tsui.

For more information about Aquablation therapy at Griffin Health visit www.griffinhealth.org/aquablation or call Griffin Faculty Physicians Urology at 203-944-3712. 

This is a press release from Griffin Health.