Register for Valley TopSoccer outreach program spring sessions in Seymour

 

Valley TOPSoccer to host Kickoff Festival in Seymour

FREE PROGRAM - Ansonia and Seymour Soccer programs have partnered up to offer TOPSoccer in the Valley!

US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities offered only through local US Youth Soccer-affiliated soccer clubs.

TOPSoccer provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive.

Soccer cleats and shin guards recommended but sneakers are okay too. Balls will be provided, please bring water to drink.

Kickoff Festival is Sunday, Sept. 29 at Seymour Middle School soccer field

Register at ansoniasoccer.org

This is shared from the Ansonia Soccer Club Facebook page.

Ansonia swimmer wins plaudits on his achievement in Parapan games

Sharing post from the City of Ansonia Facebook page:

Gold medalist Matthew Torres of Ansonia

ANSONIA - Mayor David S. Cassetti and his administration are so proud to hear about the amazing splash Ansonia's own, Matthew Torres, is making in the pool at the Parapan American Games in Lima, Peru!

This week Matt Torres picked up two gold medals in Lima! 

The first earned on the first day of competition in the men’s 100 breaststroke S8 and the second when he finished in first place in the men’s 400-meter freestyle S9/S8. 
Matthew's 400-meter freestyle S9/S8 time set a new Parapan American record in the process!

One of the four bronze medals Matthew Torres earned was for his efforts in the men’s 4x100 medley relay team!

Keep making Ansonia proud, Matthew!

Post U. men's lacrosse team honors Waterbury boy with spot on roster

Congratulations to Waterbury resident Dakota Fortier, 13, who will join Post University men's lacrosse team's roster this afternoon through Team IMPACT at a draft day ceremony.

Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit that has more than 1,000 teams to be matched with children ages 5-16 who have been diagnosed with a serious or chronic illness and who could benefit from being a member of the team.

For information visit www.goteamimpact.org. 

Seymour Pop Warner Challenger Cheer seeks participants

Lauretti donates $5,000 from golf classic to Kennedy Center in Trumbull

Mayor Mark Lauretti of Shelton, right, presents Martin D. Schwartz, President and CEO of The Kennedy Center in Trumbull with a check from the Mayor’s Annual Charity Golf Classic./ Contributed photo

 

SHELTON - Mayor Mark A. Lauretti recently surprised the Kennedy Center with a big donation over the holiday season with proceeds from his annual charity golf tournament.

 

“We want to personally thank Mayor Lauretti and the supporters of his golf tournament for their generous donation to The Kennedy Center,” said Martin D. Schwartz, President and CEO. “This substantial contribution has been earmarked for general operating expenses, which will benefit the 2,000 people with disabilities we serve throughout the region.”

 

Lauretti added, “I have been involved with The Kennedy Center for several decades. This major rehabilitation agency provides people with disabilities many employment and community resources throughout the region, including in Shelton. In fact, several years ago, I hired an outstanding Kennedy Center worker in my office at City Hall.  

"I am honored to provide this worthwhile organization with a $5,000 donation from the Mayor’s Golf Tournament, so they can continue helping others.”

 

The Kennedy Center, founded in 1951, is an internationally accredited, non-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that currently serves more than 2,000 individuals annually. 

The agency actively responds to the needs of the community by offering innovative, comprehensive service options to persons with disabilities and special needs, from birth to senior years.

 

The Kennedy Center operates 31 community experience programs, 16 group homes, an industries program composed of six businesses, supported and competitive employment and job placement services, a family support and respite service, travel training, and a variety of children’s programs. 

 

For more information visit www.thekennedycenterinc.org.

12th annual Wheel-A-Thon in West Haven to benefit youth with disabilities

My husband, Ralph, and I are longtime members of the Center for Disability Rights and I hope Valley residents will consider joining us to walk at this beautiful location at the beach in West Haven.
Last year proceeds funded seven scholarships for disabled teens, among other services.

To register you can print out this form and mail it to CDR, 369 Highland St., West Haven, 06516.

Klarides, Klarides-Ditria applaud bill to support special needs children

State Rep. Themis Klarides, R-Derby, and state Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria, R-Seymour./ Contributed photo

HARTFORD - Last week, the House unanimously passed Senate Bill 246, co-sponsored by House Republican Leader Themis Klarides and state Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria, which will help children with families with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

“DDS needs to be held accountable, and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families deserve a system that works,” Klarides said. “Helping the most vulnerable in our state should be our top priority, and I will not rest until every child that needs our help receives it.”

“The current services delivered by DDS have not been benefiting children and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” Klarides-Ditria added. “This legislation will put the well-being of children with an intellectual and developmental disabilities first. We still have a long way to go to ensure that every child receives adequate state services, and I will continue to work with CT-DDS Families First and the ARC to make sure the services provided by DDS are top-notch.” 

If the legislation is signed by the Governor, it will require the Department of Developmental Services to provide accurate and up-to-date information on family needs regarding the Residential Waiting List and other services by requiring a yearly census conducted when families meet with DDS for their annual review. 

By July 2018, DDS must develop a five and 10-year plan for each individual with an intellectual disability who is eligible for DDS services and who has an individual plan from DDS.

The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

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

Kennedy Center to display artwork at Kellogg Environmental Center in Derby

“Keep your love of nature, for that is the true way to understand art more and more.”
- Vincent Van Gogh

DERBY - Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s Kellogg Environmental Center is privileged to display the works of 16 talented artists from the Kennedy Center, Trumbull.

The Kennedy Center is a private, not-for-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that supports individuals with disabilities.

Kellogg Environmental Center will host an opening from 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, May 9 where the public is welcome to attend and meet the artists.

The exhibit will be on display through June 12.

Many artists at The Kennedy Center are influenced by nature and their artwork often portrays this unique view of the world around them.

This show was inspired by vibrant, imaginative ecosystems that often come to life through the artwork: the heron emerging from behind the grass, the majestic mountains standing proudly, and the wild, blooming flowers.

Some artwork is inspired by their own communities and the Connecticut scenery, others reflect a broader, more global scope. These adult artists, each one a resident of Connecticut, have shown us their own eclectic interpretations of the things that one may take for granted. By enhancing the natural elements with bold color, detailed line, and provocative compositions, the images on the surface are given new life. Their artwork blossoms with possibility and invites the viewer to experience their world.

Artists participating in this special display are: Charles Best, Barbara Cobb, Ryan Curl, Michael Donahue, Alice DuBois, William DuBois, Ryan Gall, James Graves, Teresa Kiraly, Carolyn Kordish, Meghan McCormack, Marie Merceron, John Mitchell, Michael Oprendek, Maria Santiago, and Debra Willis.

The Kennedy Center promotes optimal participation and inclusion in the community by offering innovative, comprehensive services. One way that this is accomplished is through the expressive arts.

By collaborating with local centers and organizations, the diverse talents of individuals with disabilities can be witnessed in an inclusive, creative space.

Kellogg Environmental Center, 500 Hawthorne Ave., is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. There is no charge.

Call the Kellogg Environmental Center, 203-734-2513 or email donna.kingston@ct.gov for further information or directions.

For more information about the Kennedy Center and its services, visit www.thekennedycenterinc.org.


This is a press release from Connecticut DEEP.

Newsletter features Seymour resident's 'silent protest'

Dear readers,

The latest Valley Voice newsletter features a disabled resident's protest against a lack of snow clearing in downtown Seymour. 
Also, Ralph writes about a major crisis facing the state's Centers for Independent Living with Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's proposed funding cuts.

Please click here to read all about it.

Thanks,

~ Patti 

Kennedy Center to recognize volunteers from Shelton, Trumbull at annual gala

Steve and Bonnie Smith of Shelton are being honored at The Kennedy Center 52nd annual Four Seasons Ball Nov. 5./ Contributed photo

            

This year’s 52nd Annual Four Seasons Ball Nov. 5 will feature double the fun when two extraordinary couples will be honored.
This wonderful philanthropic evening to benefit The Kennedy Center's Residential Services will be held at the elegant Rolling Hills Country Club, 333 Hurlbutt St., Wilton. 

This popular ball will recognize Tribute Journal honorees Nancy and Joe Dennin of Trumbull, and Bonnie and Steve Smith of Shelton. 

Both couples have shown exceptional dedication to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. 
In addition, they are both parents of a child with disabilities and have volunteered and supported The Kennedy Center for many decades.

Black tie optional and elegant attire is requested for one of the longest running charity galas in Fairfield County. Come enjoy this year’s dramatic theme, “Black & White.” Beginning at 7 p.m., enjoy a social hour with hors d’oeuvres, followed by a full-course dinner and dancing to the band Cracked Ice until midnight.

The ball is being spearheaded by co-chairs Michele Macauda and Richard Burke of Monroe. 
Committee members are: Trumbull residents Vanessa Fahy, Nancy Dennin, and Martin D. Schwartz; Fairfield residents Corey Allen, Maryla Colandrea, and Anne Foley; Shelton residents Bonnie Smith and Dottie Kellersman; Jo Ann McMullan of Westport, Robin Berry of Monroe, Gina Ciliberto of Shelton, and Deb Kane of Derby.

Also playing a major leadership role, are Bill Purcell of the Naugatuck Valley and Elizabeth Capobianco of Milford, co-chairs of the Tribute Journal. 

Members of the Tribute Journal include the following community leaders: Dan Long of Cheshire, Shelton residents Len Berger and Gina Ciliberto; Joe Giaccone of Danbury, Martin D. Schwartz of Trumbull, Jo Ann McMullan of Westport, and Deb Kane of Derby.

Proceeds from the ball will benefit The Kennedy Center’s residential services for people with disabilities, including: 16 group homes; a supported living option program, a family support and respite service, and the nationally recognized Caring for the Caregiver Program that offers support for parents of family members who are developmentally disabled.

Many sponsors have given generously to make this 52nd anniversary celebration special. 
The Platinum Sponsors are Dorothy B. Larson of Fairfield, Michele Macauda and Richard Burke of Monroe, and People’s United Bank; Sapphire Sponsors are William and Gloria Paul Family Foundation, and R. D. Scinto, Inc. At the Emerald level are the Foley Family of Fairfield and Fairfield University. Merit Insurance and BlumShapiro are Ruby Sponsors.

The Dennins of Trumbull
The Dennins met in graduate school in 1963 in Madison, Wis. where Joe earned a MA and PhD in Mathematics and Nancy earned a MA in Mathematics.

Currently, Joe is in his 40th year as a math professor at Fairfield University. In 2005, the Fairfield University chapter of the American Association of Professors selected him as Colleague of the Year, and in 2011, honored him with a Lifetime Achievement award. He received a BA in Mathematics from the College of the Holy Cross.

Nancy is in her 10th year teaching math at St. Joseph High School after 26 years at New Canaan High School. Nancy received the Edythe M. Slyffe award from the Mathematics Association of America for Excellence in Teaching. She received a BA in Mathematics from Hunter College.

The Dennins have always been strong supporters of The Kennedy Center on many levels and were selected Volunteers of the Year in 2007. Joe is serving his third term on The Kennedy Center Board. He has served on many committees, including the Annual Meeting, Golf and Annual Giving Committees. Nancy chaired the decorating committee for the Cabaret in its beginning years. 
The couple created Logoland for the Kennedy Center, whose purpose is to sell items with the agency logo and increase the visibility of The Kennedy Center in the community.

In addition, the Dennins are strong supporters of Special Olympics Connecticut and in 1999 were inducted into the SOCT Hall of Fame as winners of the Bozzuto Family Award. Both served nine years on the SOCT Board of Directors and are currently the local co-coordinators for the Trumbull Program. Joe serves as the Chairperson for the State Golf Committee. They have also served on the Westport Penguin Plunge and the Southwest Regional Qualifying Games. The Fairfield County Sports Commission presented Nancy with the 2007 SOCT Sportsperson of the year award.

Joe is on the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Down Syndrome Congress. While at New Canaan High School, Nancy coached the school mathematics team to three straight New England Championships. In the last millennium, with Joe as coach, the Danbury Debs twice won the Connecticut State fast pitch softball tournament and advanced to the finals of the New England regional.

The couple has four children: Peter (wife Katherine); Elizabeth (husband Chris); Michael (wife Jeni); and David, a client at The Kennedy Center; and 10 grandchildren.

The Smiths of Shelton
The Smiths met while both were students at Syracuse University. Since then, they have juggled demanding professional careers while raising a family and giving back to the community. 
Their daughter, Alison, is a consumer of The Kennedy Center. They also have a son, Brian (wife Adrienne) and two grandsons.

Steve is currently a board member of The Kennedy Center and previously served as Board Chair. He chairs the Marketing Committee and has served on the Board Advisory, Long Range Strategic Planning, Nominating and Golf Committees.

Steve was on the organizing committee for the Special Olympics World Games in 1995 and subsequently served nine years on the Board of Directors of SOCT, two years as Board Chair. He received the Susan St. James Award for Leadership and has been inducted into the Special Olympics Connecticut Hall of Fame. In addition to a B.S. in Marketing from Syracuse, he holds an M.S. in Management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and has operated Smith & Company, Market Research Consultants for the past 30 years.

Bonnie has recently retired from the Savings Bank of Danbury where she was Vice President of Human Resources for the past 19 years. 
She also spent nine years on the Board of Directors of SOCT where she chaired the Human Resources Committee. She has been inducted into the Shriver Society which recognizes individuals who are major supporters of the organization. Bonnie also serves on the Employer Advisory Committee for The Bridge to Independence and Career Opportunities which assists lower income women find meaningful employment. In 2015, she was named a Woman of FIRE by the Commercial Record which recognizes women in the Finance, Insurance and Real Estate sectors who have made a difference in their community.

Bonnie has volunteered at the Kennedy Center’s Autism SpectRUN and served on the committee for the Four Seasons Ball. 
In addition to a B.A. in Journalism and Political Science from Syracuse, Bonnie also holds an M.S. in Counseling and Human Resources from the University of Bridgeport.

Tickets for the Four Seasons Ball are $200 per person and may be ordered online at www.thekennedycenterinc.org. 

For more information, call 203-365-8522, Ext. 213.


This is a press release from the Kennedy Center.

Plans rolling along for CDR Wheel-A-Thon in West Haven

WEST HAVEN - The Center for Disability Rights is a great organization that seeks to promote independence for people facing physical and intellectual challenges.

My husband, Ralph, and I have been members for more than 20 years, and he has served in several capacities there, including as President of its Board of Directors. 

The nonprofit will hold its 11th annual Wheel-A-Thon July 26 at Savin Rock Conference Center, 6 Rock St.

The Valley communities of Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton are part of CDR's catchment area.

I'm sharing the PDF link here to a special Valley Voice highlighting the fundraiser.

Church in Ansonia to hold service for families with special needs children

Photo from church website

ANSONIA - Rhythms of Grace to Go is a monthly worship service at First United Methodist Church that serves the spiritual needs of families who have children with disabilities.

The next service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the church, 47 Franklin St.

For information call 203-734-0374, or emailpastorjim@anseyumcs.org. 

The service is supportive, loving, open, and fully inclusive.

The church seeks to actively nurture participants through Gospel teaching, music, play, and activities, all while being mindful of the entire family's spiritual needs.

This is a release from the church.

10th annual Wheel-a-thon in West Haven deemed a success

My husband, Ralph, rolls along Sunday at the 10th annual Wheel-A-Thon along the shore in West Haven to benefit the Center for Disability Rights. 
The morning started out overcast but the clouds soon parted and the sun shone for most of the event.
CDR Executive Director Marc Anthony Gallucci said more than $10,000 had been raised. 
The proceeds fund scholarships and advocacy for disabled youths and youth transition services in the nonprofit's catchment area. 

The event also serves to raise awareness of the difficulties faced by those living with disabilities.

One of the teams that raised the most money poses in front of Savin Rock Conference Center. At right in pirate hat is Marc Anthony Gallucci, executive director, Center for Disability Rights.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The landmark legislation prohibits discrimination against the disabled.

It's a beautiful area for a walk, especially when the weather cooperates!

Wheel-A-Thon Sunday in West Haven to benefit youth with disabilities

WEST HAVEN - The Center for Disability Rights' 10th annual Wheel-A-Thon to Benefit Young People with Disabilities will start at 9:30 a.m. Sunday at Savin Rock Conference Center, 6 Rock St. 

The Center for Disability Rights' catchment area includes the Lower Naugatuck Valley.

This fun event is a fundraising and community awareness campaign to benefit the youth programs and activities of the CDR and its partners.

Participants may register Sunday; entry fee is $25.

Money raised in 2014 funded the following:

* 3 college scholarships for students with disabilities;
* Advocacy with students to improve their education;
* Facilitation Services for youth groups; and
* CDR youth transition services.

Participants use wheelchairs at this event to help raise awareness of disability issues in the community.


Please come join me and my family to support a great cause!

Conroy of Seymour appointed to Medicaid oversight council

HARTFORD - House Majority Leader Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, has appointed state Rep. Theresa Conroy, D-Seymour, to the state Council on Medical Assistance Program Oversight as an advocate for persons with substance abuse disabilities.

“Theresa Conroy is a strong advocate for individuals and families that are struggling with the disease of addiction,” Aresimowicz said. 

“She is one of the first state policy-makers to face the state’s opioid epidemic head on and will be a great addition to the council.”

“I want to thank Majority Leader Aresimowicz for this new challenge,” Conroy said. “Making sure all Connecticut residents who are insured through Medicaid Managed Care have access to quality care is an important goal.”

The Council on Medical Assistance Program was established under Connecticut statute (CGS 17b-28) as a collaborative body consisting of legislators, Medicaid consumers, advocates, health care providers, insurers and state agencies to advise DSS on the development of Connecticut's Medicaid Managed Care program and for legislative and public input to monitor the implementation of the program.

Due to the large volume of work the Council addresses, committees have been established – Complex Care, Consumer Access, Quality Improvement, Women's Health, and Care Management. 

The full Council and each committee meet once a month. The Council holds public hearings, issues surveys and holds provider forums to assess the impact of Medicaid Managed Care.

The next meeting of the full Council on Medical Assistance Program is at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 18, in Room 1-E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

This is a press release from Conroy's office. 

Actress enthralls audience at Derby Historical Society fundraiser

Actress Sheryl Faye portrays Helen Keller Monday at Molto Bene Italian American Kitchen in Ansonia. The slide is a photo of Keller's mother, Kate Adams Keller.

Sheryl Faye stays in character as she greets audience members after her wonderful performance.


It was the Derby Historical Society's 25th annual Silver Tea.

Please check out my story in the Valley Independent Sentinel.

Meetings planned on transit services for disabled in Valley