Family Fun Time on tap Monday at Derby Neck Library

This weekly program is fun for the whole family! We'll transform the Children's Room into a giant entertainment zone (as if it weren't enough fun already)!

Drop in any time between 3:30-5:30 p.m. Mondays to participate. The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave. We'll have music and karaoke, ToniePlay audio games, board and card games, life-sized games, snacks and refreshments, and more! No rotating schedule... all of these activities, every Monday, for all of summer.

We hope to see you there!

Derby Neck Library to kick off summer reading program 'The Big Dig' Monday

 

DERBY - Join us [Monday at Derby Neck Library] for our annual summer kickoff party, which begins our summer programming series and reading incentives. 

We'll have free food, live music, and loads of crafts and activities, including an outdoor Big Dig for dinosaur fossils and gems in our sandbox.

The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.

Derby Public Library posts August newsletter

 

Ansonia Nature Center to celebrate Earth Day 2023 Saturday

 

Ansonia High School slates virtual meeting for parents

 

Derby Public Library to host Teen Summer Club via Zoom

DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites all young adults ages 12 to 17 to this season’s virtual Teen Summer Club, Tails & Tales! 

Interested patrons should sign up at the library’s Calendar of Events, with registration opening June 14 and club programming starting June 23. 

Club members will gather via Zoom with meeting links to be emailed after registration for each event. 

The eight-week summer club will include Maker Space Grab-n-Go activities, as well as Teen Advisory Board meetings, Game Nights, Classic Graphic Novel read-n-shows, Audiobook SYNC chats, and member reviews of books, articles, and websites. 

Active participants will earn credits toward weekly prizes. 

For more information call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

This is a press release from Tony DeLos, young adult librarian, Derby Public Library. 

Derby Neck Library posts events for week

Seymour Evangelical Baptist Church to hold Vacation Bible School

SonRise National Park VBS June 25-29

Vacation Bible School will run from 6-8:15 p.m. June 25-29.

It is for children ages 4-finishing sixth grade.

The week will include songs, games, stories, crafts, and snacks.

Seymour Evangelical Baptist Church is at 104 Mountain Road. 

For information call Dom or Jane, 203-888-3072. 

Huntington Branch Library to host treat-making activity

Hedgehog Rice Krispie Treats

SHELTON - Tweens in Grades 5-8 can make "hedgehogs sweet enough to eat" from 4:30-5 p.m. Monday at Huntington Branch Library.

The Library is at 41 Church St.

Register here or call 203-926-0111. Registration form said Friday morning there are 14 current openings.


*Information shared from Shelton Library System website.

Ansonia Nature Center posts May activity calendar

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center will offer a variety of fun programs for all ages in May. 

SURVIVAL SCHOOL: Fire in the Rain – May 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Have you ever wondered how people on the frontier kept warm on a wet day? Fire starting is a craft which can be learned! 

Ranger Dan will help you sharpen these skills.
Come to try your hand at striking a piece of flint against steel and harness a force from nature while the very elements work against you. This class will take place outdoors; be prepared for the weather. For ages 14 and up. Class size is limited to 8; please pre-register.
FEE: $10 per person.

MONDAY NIGHT TRAIL RUN- Mondays in May at 5:30 p.m.
This is a call to all of the runners who want something that is out of the ordinary! Ranger Dan will lead you through our 156-acre network of trails while you burn off the weekend’s extra calories. We guarantee that this FREE program is the best way to start off your week.

Please pre-register and wear appropriate footwear.

NATURE EXPLORERS – Wednesdays, May 9,16, 23, 30; 10 a.m.
Join our four-week program for children ages 2-5 and their adult explorer. Enjoy exploring nature every week! The classes are loosely structured and influenced by the seasons and interest of the children. We will go outside for a short hike and to explore nature every class so please dress for the weather. Classes will end with a light snack (provided or bring your own) and conversation.
TUITION: $40 for all 4 weeks, space permitting (cash or check payable to Ansonia Nature Center) due at first class. Class is limited to 10 children. Please register.

MIGRATORY BIRD WALK: Wandering for Warblers – May 12, 8 a.m.
The gems of the New England forest are returning! 

Join Ranger Jessica on this morning walk looking for these small colorful migratory birds.
Travel through our fields and forests and along the edge of our two-acre pond habitat in search of our returning warbler friends. You will have Jessica’s 15 years of birding experience on your side to help you find these delightful birds. For ages 9 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
FREE. Please register; class size limited.

LAVENDER BATH BOMBS FOR MOTHERS’ DAY – May 12, 1 p.m.Join us in making these wonderful bath bombs for the mother in your life. Each attendee will make a batch of their own, learn how to mold them, and prepare them as gifts. For 8 years old and up.
MATERIALS FEE: $12 per person. Please pre-register.

NATURE AND PLAY FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM, OTHER DEVELOPMENTAL DELAYS - May 13, 2:30 p.m.
Session 2 activity: Flowers, Flowers, Everywhere! Do you have a child aged 8–12 with autism and other developmental delays? Would you like to join a group playtime that meets once a month? Gently led by Ranger Amie, we will explore ways to introduce your child to playing indoors and outdoors at the Nature Center.

Activities include meeting animal friends, taking a walk or easy hike, and nature crafts. Playtime begins at 2:30 p.m. and ends at 4:30 p.m. (or however long your child would like to stay). Please arrive on time. We will meet inside at the small classroom; children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the class.
FREE. Pre-registration required; group limited to 10 children with adult.

MASTER GARDENERS: Native Plants – May 19, 10 a.m.
Join Master Gardener Janis Underwood and discover the importance of Connecticut’s native plants. She will take you on a guided walk to our native woodland garden and medicinal/edible bio swale. This FREE program is geared for adults. Please pre-register.

THE NATIVE AMERICAN COURTING FLUTE – May 19, 1:30 p.m.
Allan Madahbee is a registered Ojibway (Chippewa) Indian who has pursued the traditional music, arts, and crafts of his ancestors, creating paintings, flutes, beaded moccasins, wood carvings, Native American regalia, and rock sculptures. He participated in the making of the short film ​Quinnetukut: Life In The Woodlands, produced by the Institute of American Indian Studies in Washington Depot; he is credited with voice over, acting, and flute music.
Join us for Madahbee's presentation on the history, culture, and playing of the Native American flute; he’ll also play some contemporary Native American songs with vocals and guitar.
FEE: $6 per person. Please register.

To register or for more information please call 203-736-1053.

This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

Ansonia cancels after-school activities today

Information from the Ansonia Public Schools' Facebook page:

"Due to the inclement weather today, March 2, 2018, Ansonia Public Schools is cancelling all after school activities.

"Please be advised to always check for any updates or changes."

DEEP hosts Scout programs at Kellogg Environmental Center in Derby

DERBY - Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection hosts several badge day programs for both Webelos and Boy Scout levels at Kellogg Environmental Center.
All badges will have Scouts engaging in hands-on activities and investigations to help them fully understand the importance of various topics. 

The Webelos badges include the electives:

Into the Wild - which focuses on wildlife and their behaviors, will be held Nov. 4 and March 24, 2018 from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

Into the Woods - which focuses on the forest ecosystem and how it helps maintain a healthy environment, will be held Dec. 9 and April 7, 2018 from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

Participation in one of the dates listed for the desired badge will complete most of the requirements. 
Each program will cost $5 per Scout. Be sure anyone attending is dressed for the weather.

The Boy Scout Merit badges are:

Soil and Water Conservation group class – explores basic information regarding soil and water science while evaluating human impacts on these resources, will be held Dec. 28, 2017 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Environmental Science badge - focuses on various skills in the field of environmental science. This is issue based work relating to resilience, resources, and other issues that have emerged in ecology throughout the years. The badge day will be held Feb. 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sustainability badge - focuses on examination of each scout’s environmental footprint based on their current water use, food selection, energy use, and trash impact. It will allow them to evaluate the impact of their choices. 
The badge day will be held  March 31, 2018 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

After registering for any of the merit badges, scouts will receive pre-requisite material that they will need to complete before attending the lesson. This will ensure that all of the requirements for the desired badge are nearly completed by the end of the lesson. Each program will cost $5 per Scout. All attending should dress for the weather.

These badge days will be held at DEEP’s Kellogg Environmental Center, 500 Hawthorne Ave. 
To register, call the Kellogg Environmental Center, 203-734-2513, then complete and return the form that will be provided


This is a press release from Connecticut DEEP.

Ansonia Nature Center schedules winter activities

ANSONIA - Take a hike, learn karate, make crafts, and more in January at Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road.

NEW YEAR’S DAY HIKE – Building closed except for hike, 10 a.m. Jan. 1 - Bring a healthy start to your new year at the Nature Center.

Our ranger will conduct this brisk walk while you learn a little natural history trivia along the way.

Free, but please register in advance.
Inclement weather cancels.

PET LOSS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP – 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 14.

Losing a beloved animal can be tragic and a very emotional time for humans. There are numerous resources to turn to for the loss of a human loved one; however, there are limited options for when we lose an animal.

Susan Wilson has created this support group for those who have lost an animal or have one in the process of moving on. While these sessions are free, donations are accepted.

KARATE CLUB – 5-5:45 p.m.Tuesdays, Jan. 10 - Feb. 7.
In this dynamic and energetic after-school program at the Nature Center for children in grades K-6, students will engage in various martial arts techniques and activities while learning important skills such as discipline, focus, self-control, and confidence. They will have the opportunity to earn higher-ranking belts as their participation continues.
Tuition: $45 per five-week session (cash or check payable to AMAA), which includes a Karate Club T-shirt and white belt.

For more information call Chief Instructor Adam Rylski at 203-671-6903 or 203-931-1979, or the Ansonia Nature Center, 203-736-1053.

YOGA FOR A HEALTHY MIND AND BODY – 6:30 p.m. Thursdays.
Our seasoned Hatha Yoga instructor and practitioner, Pam Mellitz, will lead us into a healthier lifestyle through stretching, breath control and gentle exercise. The full 1.5 hour classes require a mat or thick towel; dress for easy movement. Class is limited to 12 students. $7 per class. Please call Pam to register, 203-888-4124.

21ST ANNUAL DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.’S LEGACY OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL JUSTICE – noon–4 p.m. Jan. 15; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Jan. 16.
Join the Nature Center at the Yale Peabody Museum, 170 Whitney Ave., New Haven. The Peabody will once again offer world-class performances and educational activities for visitors of all ages, in honor of Dr. King and his efforts to ensure justice for all people.

BACK TO BASICS: Natural Lip Balms – 1:30 p.m. Jan. 21.
Soothe your lips with your own homemade lip balm! Join Ranger Dawn and learn how to make lip balm with natural ingredients such as beeswax and essential oils in this easy and fun workshop.
Take home a sample! Materials fee: $10 per person. Please register in advance; space is limited.

GRANDMOTHER TURTLE: An Iroquois Tale – 2 p.m. Jan. 22.
Storyteller Leslie Elias will tell the Iroquois creation myth, a story of sky people and water animals and how the earth came to rest on Grandmother Turtle’s back.
During this workshop, children will create a mask and perform the creation myth for their families. Materials fee: $10 per person.

FIELD TRIP: Behind the Scenes at the Peabody Museum – 3:30-4:30 p.m. Jan 24. From Anthropology to Zoology, the 13 million objects and specimens in the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History’s collections represent a world-class record of the history of the Earth and its cultures. Less than one percent is on display in the public galleries!
In this tour a guide will take you to visit two different curatorial divisions; you’ll learn how the collections are stored and organized, and have the opportunity to glimpse some hidden treasures that rarely see the light of day! Tours are not open to children under 12.
Register in advance; space is limited. $15 per person.

All participants will meet at the museum at 2:45 p.m.

SPECIAL EDITION OF PLAYGROUND MOUSE – 2 p.m. Jan. 28. A true story from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center told by Ranger Amie Ziner. Come hear the adventure of Playground Mouse, who was found at our beloved old playground.

This is the fun story of a local mouse growing, meeting some friends, and his release back into the great outdoors. We will create a Playground Mouse of your own to take home and care for. Donate $10 and you will receive a copy of the adventures of Playground Mouse. All donations will help feed the animals at the Nature Center.


*** ONGOING PROGRAMS ***

Sundays: Guided Hikes, 1 p.m.

Thursdays: Yoga for a Healthy Mind and Body, 6:30 p.m.—call Pam, 203-888-4124.

Saturdays: Creature Features, noon

*** THINGS TO COME (Spring 2017) Hidden Landscapes Celebration • Family Organic Garden • Nature Explorers • Spring Junior Rangers

Please check www.ansonianaturecenter.org for updates.

This is a press release from Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

Ansonia Nature Center slates fundraiser, soap-making class, drumming circle, hikes

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, has announced its calendar of events for September.

YOGA AND FITNESS – Begins Sept. 1, 6:30 p.m. 

Instructor Pamela Mellitz will lead students through stretching and toning, balance and awareness. She’ll also demonstrate the importance of just breathing correctly for better physical and mental health in these full 90-minute sessions. 
FEE: $7 per class. Please call Pam, 203-888-4124.

NATURE’S CHILD: Incredible Insects – Sept. 2, 10 a.m.

Join naturalist Amie to discover the critters who live in our park’s beautiful yellow flowers. You’ll be amazed to find how many tiny creatures live on our goldenrod. 
TUITION:  $7 per child ($5 for family-level FANCI members and Ansonia residents).  
Please pre-register for this class for preschoolers and their adults.

FUNDRAISER: Club Comedy Night – Sept. 2, 7 p.m.

This fundraising event, hosted by the Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc., to support the building of a new playground, will be held at Club Comedy, 585 South Main St., Naugatuck. The club is located ½ mile off exit 25 or 26 on Route 8. 
Tickets can be purchased at the Ansonia Nature Center for $25 each. The doors will open at 5 pm, so plan to arrive early and enjoy a pre-show dinner. Raffle tickets will be available from 5–6:45 p.m. with proceeds also going to the playground fund. The comedy show will begin at 7 p.m. For ages 21 and over only.

FALL TERM JUNIOR RANGERS – Registration begins Thursday, Sept. 8; class runs Thursdays, Sept. 15–Nov. 3, 3:30–5 pm.

Calling all kids 11 to 14 years old who love nature! Has your child wanted to work with animals, garden, help maintain our trails, and help with special events? This is the opportunity to help the Nature Center in our 8-week after-school program. Parental permission is required. Class size is limited; this class fills up fast!  FREE.

BACK TO BASICS:  Soap Making 101 – Sept. 10, 1 p.m.

This two-hour class will provide the basic skills you’ll need to make wonderful soaps! Attendees will learn basic safety and traditional techniques required for this time-honored craft which makes great gifts – or soaps to keep for your own use. Soap samples and recipes will be provided. Bring a small container for your take-home samples. 
Instructor: Dawn Sotir. FEE: $10 per person. Registration is required.

PET LOSS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP – Sept. 11, 1 p.m.

Losing a beloved animal can be tragic and a very emotional time for humans. There are numerous resources to turn to for the loss of a human loved one; however, there are limited options for when we lose an animal. Susan Wilson has created this support group for those who have lost an animal or have one in the process of moving on. 

FREE.

THEMED GUIDED HIKE: Goldenrod Jungle – Sept. 11, 1 p.m. 

For all nature enthusiasts! Enjoy a walk through the park’s fields and vast Goldenrod Jungle. 
You’ll be amazed at the diversity of insects, spiders, and birds that depend on this unique habitat for survival. 
FREE guided hikes every Sunday at 1 p.m.

FULL HARVEST MOON HIKE – Sept. 16, 7 p.m.

The northeastern native people referred to the full September moon as the “corn is edible” moon. Join our rangers to hike the Nature Center trails as the big moon rises. Enjoy some marshmallows over the campfire to conclude our program. 
Each child must be accompanied by an adult. Number of participants is limited, so pre-registration is required. 
FEE: $1 per person.

PLAYGROUND FAMILY FUN DAY – Sept. 17, 10 a.m.  

Let's get our community together and celebrate! We will start by restoring the grounds around our new playground.

The original playground was built in 1991 by the community, and it would be great to keep up the tradition.  It is time to continue the legacy for another 25 years and ensure the playground's longevity for future generations.

AUTUMNAL EQUINOX DRUMMING CIRCLE – Sept. 23, 7 p.m.

Join our drumming circle with Ranger Dawn. For adults and children 12 years and older. Welcome and celebrate our most colorful season! 
FREE, but bring a canned food item for our local homeless shelter. We’ll gather at Pavilion #2. Please register.

BIRDS ON THE MOVE - Sept. 24, 9 a.m.

Come for birding with Ranger Jessica for this fun, informative program. She will concentrate on the end-of-summer journeys taken by our “flying friends” to faraway places each year. 
Find out who’s going and who’s staying put! 
FREE; please call to register.

For information and to register, call 203-736-1053.

This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.

History, Tech Talks, movies, more offered in April at Derby Neck Library

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave., has scheduled a variety of programs for April.

Dinner and a Movie
The Library presents Dinner and a Movie, for ages 18 and older at 5:30 p.m. April 7. 
This month’s feature film is “Brooklyn.”
Free refreshments will be served, including a pizza dinner at intermission. No registration is required.

Teen Movie Night
The Library presents Teen Movie Night at 5:30 p.m. April 14. This monthly event is open to teens and tweens. Attendees get to vote for a favorite movie, from a group of four feature films. 
Free refreshments will be served, including a pizza dinner.

Women's Forum
The Library hosts Women’s Forum, a discussion group that focuses on literature, history, and the arts, at 12:30 p.m. April 18.
This month we discuss two short stories by a contemporary author—Robert Lorenzi. Both stories, “Damage” and “Kristi, the Barmaid” are available free at the library. Bring a light lunch if you wish; we serve free coffee and tea.

Tech Talks
At 6 p.m. April 18 and again at 10:30 a.m. April 20, the Library presents Tech Talks. 
This is a monthly program that offers information on what is new in technology and describes how to best use it for your needs. Attendees are also free to bring their questions.

Writers' Round
At 6:30 p.m. April 21 the Library hosts Writers’ Round, a workshop for authors of all genres—fiction, poetry, prose, scripts, history, etc. Bring your original works to share with others.

Scarf tying
The Library presents Joann Czeczot with “Tying Fashion Scarves” at 2 p.m. April 24.
Learn all the special techniques involved in getting that special look for spring and summer. 
A variety of fashion hints will be offered to make the most of a simple, yet functional accessory. 
There is no program fee, but registration is requested. Attendees will be eligible for a free raffle. Bring a friend and enjoy an interesting afternoon.

Evening Book Club
At 6:30 p.m. April 25 the Library hosts the Evening Book Club which meets around the fireplace in the Reading Room. 
This month’s book is Jane Austen’s “Lady Susan.” Copies of the book are available at the library. Come enjoy an informational and stimulating evening.

'Newspapers in the Civil War'
At 6:30 p.m. April 26 the Library presents Prof. Hamish Lutris of Housatonic Community College speaking on “Newspapers in the Civil War.” 
This power point presentation will focus on the diverse and interesting manners in which reporters covered the war, including the use of telegraphy and their rough lives camping with soldiers. 
An informative and amusing talk on this fascinating era in American history. 

For details on any program or to register call 203-734-1492.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Derby Neck Library to host teen programs, Tech Talks, writing workshop

DERBY - The Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Ave., has scheduled activities for January.
Video games
From 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 16 a Teen Video Tournament will feature the newly-released Super Mario Maker on Wii U. 
All teens and t'weens are invited to compete for a grand prize. Free refreshments will be available. Bring your friends for a fun time. 

Discussion group
At 12:30 p.m. Jan. 18 the Library will host Women’s Forum, a literary discussion group that focuses on short stories and poetry. This month’s stories are “Ted and Angeline” by Dinah Lampitt and “Stuff and Sawdust” by Valerie Thame. 
Copies are available at the library. Feel free to bring a light lunch; coffee and tea served. 

Tech Talks
On Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. and again at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 20 the library presents Tech Talks, a program which describes the latest in technology and how to best purpose it for your own needs. For this month’s topic call 203-734-1492. Your questions are welcomed.

Writers' Round
The Library hosts Writers’ Round, a monthly workshop for writers of all genres—scripts, prose, poetry, fiction, history, etc. at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 21. 
Bring your original works to share with others and join us in practicing your creativity with a writing prompt. 

Evening Book Club
The Library hosts the Evening Book Club at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 25.This group meets monthly in the Reading Room near the fireplace to discuss novellas written by award-winning authors. 
Among selections are fiction, memoirs, and on occasion non-fiction. This month we discuss “The Moon is Down” by John Steinbeck. 
Copies of the book are available at the library. 

For details on any program call 203-734-1492.


This is a press release from Patricia Sweeney, reference librarian, Derby Neck Library.

Derby Library plans fun programs for young set

Spa Day Fun
    DERBY - The Derby Public Library invites 9-14 year olds to Spa Day Fun at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 14.  

    This “spa-tacular” program is the first in a two-part series devoted to making beauty products often found at the spa.  

    With the focus on bath and body for the first workshop, participants will make lip gloss, a chocolate bubble bath, facial scrub, body lotion, and more using familiar household ingredients.   

    Anyone who is interested will have an opportunity to decorate containers and bags since these items would make a great idea for gift giving. 
    There is no fee to attend; all materials will be supplied.  

    Refreshments will be served.

    Registration is requested. 

Lego Time

     The Library invites children ages 4-11 to use their creative talents and stir their imaginations during Lego Time at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 14. 
     All levels of building skills are welcome to come by for this drop-in program. 
     There is no fee to attend and all building materials will be provided.  

     Participants may place their building masterpieces on display in the Children’s Room for everyone to admire.

Science program

    The Library continues to offer an after-school STEAM program taking place on the third Tuesday of every month during the school year. 
     Children in Grades 2-5 are invited to stop by The Science Lab at 4 p.m. Nov. 17 for Kitchen Science.   

     Each month a new theme will be the focus covering topics such as simple machines, weather and more with hands-on activities and experiments.  
     There is no fee to attend and all materials will be provided for this interactive, hour long program.

    Registration is requested.  

    For information or to register, call the Children’s Room, 203-736-1482, stop by the Library at 313 Elizabeth St., or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org.

This is a press release from Sue Sherman, Children's Librarian, Derby Public Library.

Phases of Venus, CT Trails Day on Ansonia Nature Center calendar

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, has announced several activities slated in June.

THE TURNING OF VENUS –  7 p.m. June 5.

Gaianne Jenkins, a retired mathematician with an interest in paleo-astronomy, will tell us about an ancient calendar used as late as the Middle Ages that predicts the motions of the moon and some planets.

Venus (NASA website photo)

She will focus on the eight phases of Venus and the ancient five seasons of the year. 
On the night of this talk Venus will be near maximum Eastern elongation, turning from the phase of the lake to the phase of the earth, and we will be changing from spring to high summer. 

After the talk, weather permitting, we will view Venus through telescopes; it should appear as a bright half disc. Free; pre-register by calling 203-736-1053.

CT TRAILS DAY - 9 a.m. June 6.

Join Nature Center director Alison Rubelmann, an avid hiker and nature buff, for this morning walk. Discover the flora and fauna of our typical New England woodland.

This moderate hike will also visit the settlement of the Paugasucks. Bring water and a snack, and please wear sturdy shoes. This hike is suitable for older children and adults. Free; call 203-736-1053 to register.


OUTER ISLAND FIELD TRIP – 8:30 a.m. sharp June 7.

Join the staff of the Ansonia Nature Center on this amazing field trip to Outer Island, one of the Thimble Islands off the coast of Branford.
Meet us at 8:30 am at the Thimble Islands Ferry Service for the 9 a.m. ferry. 

Wildlife refuge
Outer Island is a wildlife refuge and also an ecological preserve and refuge for migratory birds. 
Its habitats include rocky intertidal zone, marsh, and beach, all typical of Long Island Sound. 
A docent will teach us about the flora and fauna and the beauty of this unique natural environment. 

Cost: Round trip ferry fee is $10 per person. 
Registration required; trip is limited to 14 people. Call 203-736-1053.

FANCI ANNUAL MEETING AND POTLUCK SUPPER - 5:30 p.m. June 10.

Join the Friends of the Ansonia Nature Center, Inc. to see what new and exciting projects they've been working on.
Bring your own table.

NATURE’S CHILD: Tidal Pools – 10:30 a.m. June 12.

Come to meet some animals from Long Island Sound who are visiting the Nature Center's salt water tank. Snails, crabs, a sea star perhaps, and even a sponge may be on hand to delight you.
A craft to take home is planned, and a short story too. This class is for preschool children.
For tuition information call 203-736-1053. Please pre-register.

NATURE GAMES FOR CHILDREN – 2 p.m. June 13.

“You Can’t See Me!” 
Come join Ranger Jessica for an afternoon of hiding in the woods, chasing each other through the fields, and pretending we are the animals that live in Connecticut's forests, while learning about the wonderful wild world around us!

 We’ll top it off with a wilderness scavenger hunt. Free.


This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature Center.

Seymour Public Library offers book clubs, crafts, music, more

May happenings announced

Seymour Public Library

5/6,13, 20, 27 – Wednesdays 10:30 a.m.– Lapsit for little ones 6-24 months old.  Read and play with your little one in a nurturing developmentally enhanced way.

5/7, 14, 21, 28 – Thursdays 10:30 a.m.– Story hour for 2-5 year olds.  Stories, songs, finger plays and a craft.

5/7- Thursday 4 p.m.– StoryKids’ Book Club for K-Grade 2 .

Book talks, craft and a snack.  Child must have some reading ability

5/12 – Thursday 10:30 a.m.– Lynn Lewis - Music & Movement for ages 0-6.   A fun time!

5/13 - Wednesday 4 p.m. – Nutmeggers’ Book Club for Grades 5 and up. Book talks, craft and a snack. The club features the Intermediate Nutmeg Nominees.

5/14 – Thursday 4 p.m.– BookChatters’ Book Club for Grades 2-4. Book talks, craft and a snack. The club features the Magic Tree House Series 

5/15 – Friday 3:45 p.m. – YA Origami! Amazing Crafting with Miss Tina 

5/19– Tuesday 10:30 a.m .– Science Snoopers ‘Sea Mammals’ ~ natural science, story and a craft –for ages 2-5  Child must be able to sit and listen. Milk and milk products will be used.

5/28 – Thursday 4 p.m. – The YA Circle- a teen reader’s and writer’s advisory – Create, share, and talk about trends in books, art, movies, and what you like! For YAs in Grade 6 and up. 
Snacks will be served.

All Programs Are Free! Fun! and Formative!

Some programs have limited enrollment; registration is required for all programs.

The library is at 46 Church St.

For information call 203-888-3903, visit us on Facebook, or visit www.seymourpubliclibrary.org.

This is a press release from Ann Szaley, children's librarian, Seymour Public Library.