Derby Police congratulate Chief Scott Todd on his retirement after 38 years

Chief Scott Todd

The Derby Police Department recognizes and celebrates the retirement of Chief Scott Todd after 38 years of dedicated service to our community.

Throughout his career, Chief Todd has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety, professionalism, and the men and women of the Derby Police Department. His leadership, integrity, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our department and the City of Derby.

On behalf of the entire Derby Police Department, we extend our sincere gratitude for your decades of service and commitment to protecting our community. Thank you for leading this department with pride and dedication.

Please join us in congratulating Chief Scott Todd on his well-earned retirement. We wish him good health, happiness, and the very best moving forward.

Congratulations, Chief Todd, and thank you for your service! 

Shared from the Derby PD Facebook page.

Ansonia to honor 3 at Women's History Month event; congratulations!

"Ansonia will proudly celebrate Women’s History Month by honoring three extraordinary women whose leadership, service, and dedication have strengthened our community: Elizabeth Lynch, Diane Stroman, and Beverly Tidmarsh.

"Their commitment to community leadership, humanitarian advocacy, and educational empowerment continues to inspire generations.

"All are welcome to attend this special recognition. Thank you, ladies, for the impact you’ve made—and continue to make—right here in Ansonia."

Shared from the City of Ansonia Facebook page.

Salvation Army features devoted leader of Hartford Citadel during Black History Month

This Black History Month we remember Delilah Collier a devoted Salvationist whose faith, leadership, and advocacy left a lasting impact.

In 1977, Delilah helped launch the Eastern Territory Black Ministries Committee, advocating for training and leadership opportunities for Black officers and helping give voice to the Black community within The Salvation Army.

A faithful soldier of the Hartford Citadel for over 50 years, Delilah was a prayer warrior, a servant, and a woman of deep hospitality. Her life reminds us that when we surrender fully to God, He can use us to do the most good. 

This is shared from The Salvation Army - Ansonia Facebook page.

Salvation Army of Ansonia: Black History Month is time to reflect, honor legacy

From The Salvation Army - Ansonia Facebook page:

February is Black History Month—a time to honor the faith, leadership, resilience, and service of Black individuals who have shaped our communities and our shared history.

At The Salvation Army, we recognize the profound impact of Black leaders, officers, soldiers, and volunteers whose dedication helped strengthen this movement and advance its mission. Their legacy continues to inspire us as we serve with dignity, compassion, and love.

This month, we reflect, learn, and celebrate the stories that remind us what it means to truly do the most good—together.

Congratulations to newly sworn-in commander of Seymour Police Department

Today, we proudly celebrate Sergeant Jason Uliano as he is officially sworn in as Commander with the Seymour Police Department.

With unwavering dedication, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to serving our community, Commander Uliano has earned this honor through years of exemplary service and integrity.

Your leadership continues to inspire those around you, and we are confident that your transition into this new role will bring continued excellence and strength to the department.

Congratulations Commander Uliano!

Shared from the Town of Seymour Police Department Facebook page.

Derby Police Department congratulates 3 officers on promotions

Please join us in congratulating 3 members of our department on their well-deserved promotions!!!

Sgt. Frank DeAngelo has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.

Officer Joe Townsend and Officer Josh Cash have been promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

Each of these officers have consistently demonstrated leadership, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving our great little city.

Their hard work and professionalism has not gone unnoticed.

Thank you to Chief Todd, Mayor DiMartino, and Police Commissioners DeGennaro, Lenart, and Gloade for administering the oaths and presenting the promotional orders.

We look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make in their new roles.

This is shared from the Derby Police Department Facebook page.

Applications open for Leadership Greater Valley at Chamber of Commerce

Leadership Greater Valley 2025

Application due date: Friday, September 12th

Program starts: Thursday, September 18th

Leadership Greater Valley is an 8-week program that builds leadership skills and deepens community understanding. 

Participants gain a comprehensive view of local issues, develop essential leadership abilities, and discover opportunities for community involvement. With over 300 alumni serving in key regional roles, from non-profit boards to elected office, the program empowers professionals to make a real impact.

Click here for more information and to apply today.

2 Ansonia High School students congratulated on winning prestigious award

The honorees are pictured with Ansonia Superintendent of Schools Joseph DiBacco.

The is shared from the Ansonia Public Schools' Facebook page.

CABE presents Derby Board of Education with award for team work

DERBY - The Board of Education has been recognized once again by the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education for exhibiting the most effective leadership, characterized by their ability to work together as a “team.” 

The CABE Board Recognition Awards are designed to recognize boards that provide effective leadership to their districts with good practices. 

This program acknowledges the importance of school board members and superintendents working together as effective teams and continues an important trend among school board associations across the country. 

CABE’s Board Leadership Award assesses 34 items in areas of Leadership/Student Achievement, Board Member Professional Development, Policy, Community Relations and Organizational Leadership, and Boards who apply must fulfill a minimum of 22 items across these categories to qualify. 

Superintendent Dr. Matthew J. Conway, Jr., said, “In the preceding year, our Board has steadfastly focused on establishing an inclusive process for crafting our new 5-year strategic plan, with a commitment to ensuring that every voice is not only heard but genuinely considered. Paramount in their priorities has been the assurance of safety and security within our schools, thereby safeguarding the well-being of all staff and students. 

"Furthermore, there has been a concerted effort to refine our coaching model, tailoring support to the distinctive teaching needs of our exceptional and amazing educators. The Board has exemplified the precise leadership necessary for fostering the growth of our district, educators, and, most importantly, our students. 

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their dedicated time, tireless effort, invaluable input, and unwavering support throughout this transformative journey,” Conway said.

Board Chairman Jim Gildea said, “Being honored as a board of distinction is one more positive accomplishment for the Derby school system.  The Board of Education is comprised of a strong bunch of volunteers, who donate countless hours to ensure that the students and the employees of the Derby school system have all of the necessary support that they need to be successful.  It is most rewarding to work with a group of individuals whose main priority is to work together to assure our school system thrives.” 

The award was presented at the CABE/CAPSS Annual Convention on Nov.17. 

This is a press release from Derby Public Schools.

4 Derby students receive CABE Student Leadership Awards

DERBY - The Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Matthew J. Conway Jr., recently recognized four students for receiving the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Student Leadership Awards. 

These students received this award for their leadership, specifically in the areas of taking on challenges, making difficult decisions, concern for others, working well with others, and diplomacy.

Derby High School students Cayla Cayer-McCarthy and Alysa Cayer-McCarthy, along with two students from Derby Middle School, Alexandra Karaleva and Colton Shields, were recognized at the May 2 Board of Education meeting. 

Board chairman Jim Gildea said, “On behalf of the Derby Board of Education I would like to congratulate the students who have received the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Student Leadership Awards. Our school system continues to produce positive results and outstanding students. These students are well deserving of this award as they have shown a consistent ability to be outstanding students, leaders, and well-rounded individuals. Our students continually show just how special of a place the Derby School system is. These students are certainly well deserving and we are proud of them.”

Conway said, “Receiving this recognition is a testimony to their ability to work with others, lead with others and set the standard for all. These are leadership skills they model in everything they do in school at home and in this great community.”

CABE Area 7 Director and Board of Education member George Kurtyka said, “The CABE Student Leadership Awards Program is designed to honor Connecticut High School and Middle School students who exhibit exemplary leadership skills. Two students from each school, in a CABE member district, are eligible to receive the CABE Student Leadership Award. 

"Derby is fortunate to have two students from our Derby High and Derby Middle Schools that meet, and in my opinion exceed, their leadership skills. Congratulations to our students!"

This is a press release from Derby Public Schools.

Ansonia resident takes leadership of Derby Historical Society

Derby Historical Society docents and directors recently gathered for a photo at the 29th annual Silver Tea at La Sala Banquet Hall in Derby. 

ANSONIA - The Derby Historical Society has announced the transition of leadership from Paula J. Norton to resident Daniel L. Bosques. Norton served as executive director for more than nine years. 
Bosques, who has been involved with the DHS for nine years, will continue in the legacy of serving the towns of Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton. 

Norton and Bosques are pictured above alongside some of the docents who help make the David Humphreys House come to life with their award-winning A Day in 1762 school program, as well as during numerous open houses and events; this will be the 39th-year the Derby Historical Society offers this field trip to students from all over Connecticut.

Stop by the David Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday for an Open House. 
For questions contact Dan@derbyhistorical.org or call 203-735-1908.


This is a press release from the Derby Historical Society.

Valley United Way establishes group for women at event in Shelton

Contributed photo

SHELTON - The Valley United Way is pleased to announce a new program - Women United.

Accomplished women and business leaders, community volunteers, and inspiring professionals living and working in the Lower Naugatuck Valley gathered June 4 at Il Palio to launch this nationally acclaimed program. 

United Way Vice President Patricia Tarasovic introduced Maureen Coffey as an accomplished and gifted woman who is strong and passionate about Valley United Way.  
“Maureen is a visionary woman with many gifts and talents," Tarasovic said. "Her intelligence and hard work ethic along with her passion for the Valley showed that she was the model candidate to lead this exciting new venture.  

Coffey said, “It’s an honor to serve as Inaugural Chair of Women United. When our family business Latex Foam Products (now Talalay Global) was lost to a devastating fire, United Way was on the scene to help our employees in countless ways. This is my chance to give back to a wonderful organization that needs support.”

“Leading the Charge – Inspiring the Change,” WOMEN UNITED” is a global, diverse, and vibrant force of 75,000 + women leaders in 165 communities and six countries, dedicated to raising awareness and funds to help ensure that women and children in Valley neighborhoods are financially secure.

For Valley United Way, whose primary role is bringing people together to help solve community problems, women leaders are essential to accelerating lasting change. We are a strong group of visionary women from all walks of life, capable of rolling up our sleeves and raising our voices! We will leave a legacy of change that benefits everyone by enhancing lives and creating stronger communities. 

Throughout the year, members will enjoy educational and professional development with a network of other influential women who have a passion for the Valley. 
We will strategize and plan engaging fund-raising events with measurable results, and participate in volunteer projects that make a meaningful impact for women and children. 
WOMEN UNITED has pledged to help address Valley United Way’s mission to address Food Insecurity here in our Valley.

Visit www.valleyunited.way.org to learn more about WOMEN UNITED. 


This is a press release from Patricia Tarasovic.

Basement Systems in Seymour to host Leadercast conference

This one-day leadership conference will be held May 10 at the fabulous Invictus Theater on the campus of Basement Systems in Seymour.

Broadcast LIVE each year from Atlanta to hundreds of Host Sites around the world, Leadercast Live assembles globally respected leadership experts to share knowledge and insights from their leadership journeys.

Forbes Magazine calls this the "leadership conference you don't want to miss in 2019"!

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Chamber Vice President and Conference Coordinator Nancie Gray. 

Registration is now open, click here for complete details.

*This information is shared from the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce newsletter.

Klarides, Klarides-Ditria take part in 'Women Who Lead' panel in Hartford

State Rep. Themis Klarides, seated at left, and her sister, Nicole Klarides-Ditria, were invited to speak Friday at a Women Who Lead panel in Hartford./ Contributed photo

HARTFORD - State Representatives Themis Klarides, R-Derby, and Nicole Klarides-Ditria, R-Seymour, spoke Friday on the “Women Who Lead” Panel by the Commission on Equity and Opportunity and the Commission on Women, Children and Seniors.

The topic was “The Multigenerational Impact of Women.”

Klarides, Klarides-Ditria and the other panelists spoke to young women about their experiences and how they became leaders.

“The active role that these young women are taking in both their education and community reaffirms my faith in our youth. 
These future leaders will be role models for generations to come as they continue to discover their voices and passions in life and public service. 
It is imperative we have leaders that reflect our communities and everyone has representation.

Thank you to the members and organizers of Women Who Lead, the Commission on Equity and Opportunity and the Commission on Women, Children and Seniors.”

Klarides-Ditria said, "Be yourself, work hard, and don’t let anyone push you around. This is something my mother taught us at an early age and are values we follow today. 
"I never thought I was going to be where I am today but having good women role models in your life and being confident in yourself will help you achieve anything you want in this world.”

Following the statewide elections in 2014, Klarides was unanimously chosen by her colleagues in the House Republican Caucus to be the Caucus Leader - the first woman to hold the position. 

Klarides is also the only female caucus leader in the House and Senate.

In 2016, Rep. Klarides-Ditria ran for state representative in the 105th 
District. She won the election and joined her sister at the state Capitol. Klarides and

Klarides-Ditria became the first sisters to ever serve in the General Assembly.

The other panelists were:

Jestina Gilbert, founder, “I Am Not Afraid”

Cheri Phoenix-Sharpe, General Counsel, Office of the Lieutenant Governor

Marsha McCurdy Adell, firefighter, Town of West Hartford

This is a release from Spencer Rubin, press secretary.

Shelton High School recognizes students, employee of the month

Contributed photo

SHELTON - Dr. Beth A. Smith, Principal, Shelton High School, has announced the January 2019 Students of the Month. 

The students were nominated by staff members and have demonstrated one or more of the following criteria: 

improvement in subject area; improvement in behavior; set a good, positive example in class; willing to help others; completes homework and class work with quality; goes above and beyond in the classroom; involvement in school activities; exhibits leadership qualities; is kind and friendly to classmates; follows the Gael Guidelines. 

The following students were presented with a certificate by the administration and SRO Ken Giangregorio: Jamie Bolton, Shannon Brickett, William Bronson, Emily Cacchillo, Anthony Cardoso, Sokchea Chhoeun, Sreynin Chhoeun, Asjah del Pino, Mairy Dib, David Ferrara, Nathaniel Gencarelli, Devin Gray, Colin Guzek, Kayla Hackett, Carly Hajducky, Florian Hurlbert, Emanuel Louime, John McFadden, Jenna Melanson, Marcel Mweze, David Niski, Madison Ortiz, Matthew Richard, Caroline Richmond, Gabriel Rut, Maranyeliz Torres, Jacqueline Turiano, and Allyssa Verdicchio. 

Employee of the Month

Terry Hellauer, school nurse, was recognized as the January 2019 Employee of the Month. Employees who receive this award demonstrate initiative, produce high quality work, have a positive attitude, set a good example for others, exhibit leadership qualities, and work as a team member. 

This is a press release from Dr. Beth A. Smith.

*Congratulations to all of the awardees!

There's still time to apply for Leadership Greater Valley Class of 2018

Be part of the Class of 2018! Just a Couple of Openings Available.

There is no shortage of good ideas in the world. We believe it takes more than good ideas to change the world. It also takes skill, vision and heart. Do you know yourself?  A better question is: Have you thought about the way you come across as a leader?  Do you like what you see? Do others? Whether you are new to the area, or have a renewed interest sparked by a new job, new inspiration, or new phase of life, Leadership Greater Valley can connect you to the people, places and possibilities in Greater Valley. Click here for your application due August 31st. Class starts on Thursday, September 13th!

Seymour, New Fairfield Lions Club members win recognition

Lions Club honorees Lori Ann Beninson, left, and Melissa A. Smith./ Contributed photo


SEYMOUR - Lion Lori-Ann Beninson of New Fairfield and Lion Melissa A. Smith of Seymour have been awarded the International Presidents Certificate award by District Governor Shaukat Khan and Lions Clubs International in recognition of their commitment to community service. 

Beninson is on this year's District Global Leadership Team and Smith is on the Global Membership Team.

Beninson is a member of the New Fairfield Lions Club. She has been a Lion for seven years, and has participated in various club projects including New Fairfield Old Tyme Carnival, senior picnics and boat trip, Kids Sight eye screening, and homeless outreach.

Smith is a member of the Seymour Lions Club. She has been a Lion for nine years, and has participated in various club projects including Kids Sight eye screening, summer cruise nights, annual car show, senior pizza/bingo.
Both women said it was a great honor to be presented the award, which was a surprise.

The New Fairfield Lions Club has 57 members and meets on the second and fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Biscotti’s Ristorante. 

For more information or to get involved with the New Fairfield Lions Club, contact Beninson at ctlionsserve@gmail.com.

The Seymour Lions Club has 43 members and meets on the second Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Tavern 1757. 

For more information or to get involved with the Seymour Lions Club, contact Smith at 203-430-9356 or email the club at seymourlions52@att.net.

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with more than 1.3 million members in approximately 45,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the world.

Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired and made a strong commitment to community service and serving youth throughout the world. 

For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit www.lionsclubs.org.

This is a press release from the Seymour Lions Club.

Save the date: Leadercast slated May 4 in Seymour

SEYMOUR - The Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce will host Leadercast 2018 May 4 in the Invictus Theater at Basement Systems, 33 Progress Ave., in Silvermine Industrial Park. The event will run from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tickets are $99 and now on sale.

Information below shared from the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce website: 

"We are excited to once again be a host location for this worldwide simulcast featuring world renown speakers, authors and more. It is inspirational, experiential and transformational. 

"Leadercast Live is the world’s largest one-day leadership event, with more than 100,000 attendees participating at 700-plus locations in 20 countries around the globe. It is designed for those seeking inspiration and improvement in leadership whether you attend as an individual or with a group.

"It’s a movement that is changing the way the world thinks about leadership by building leaders worth following. In order to become those leaders to the outside, we have to lead ourselves first. We must walk the walk. 

"It’s like the flight attendants tell us: “Please remember to wear your own oxygen mask before helping others.”

"In 2018, Leadercast will focus on that very concept. How do you lead yourself effectively? How do you develop your core principles and values so that your leadership is an outpouring of your innermost self? And how much more will those who follow you benefit from your leadership when you lead yourself well?"

Current Speaker Line-up from Atlanta:

Jen Bricker - Acrobat, Aerialist, Author & Speaker
Ian Morgan Cron - Best Selling Author, Psychotherapist, Enneagram Teacher & Speaker
Catherine Hoke - Founder & CEO Defy Ventures
Michael Hyatt - Author, Speaker and CEO of Michael Hyatt & Company
Mae Jamison -  NASA Astronaut, Engineer and Physician
Jim Loehr. Ed. D. - Best Selling Author & WOrld-Renowned Performance Psychologist
Carey Lohrenz - First Female F-14 Pilot, Speaker & Trainer
Andy Stanley - Leadership Communicator & Best Selling Author
Joe Torre - Hall of Fame Baseball Manager
Tripp Crosby - Comedian, Director & Host of Leadercast 2018

Local Luncheon Speaker:
Larry Janesky, Founder, Basement Systems

Why Attend Leadercast Greater Valley Chamber?
In line with this year’s theme, “Lead Yourself”, we encourage you to attend and bring all key leaders in your organization. 

This gives everyone the opportunity to invest in themselves. They will learn to lead themselves and that will allow them to lead others more effectively. 

Take the opportunity to remove yourself from your normal business environment; it will free you up from everyday distractions to network, learn and be inspired.

The change of scenery often ignites creativity and helps leaders look at their businesses and lives in a different light. We believe spending time with attendees, vendors and experts, plus a staff whose only focus is to ensure you have a deeper level of engagement, creates a life-changing experience.

HR and CEU credits available.

Our sponsors are a part of our Leadercast culture. We are grateful to partner with businesses that are truly leaders worth following. 

Additional sponsorship opportunities now available, contact Nancie for details. 

Please note: Reservations for this event are non-refundable. 

Teen employee of Wesley Village in Shelton receives prestigious award

Jake DeLucia with Lori Pisani, Executive Director, Crosby Commons, left, and Lisa Bisson, Director, Community Outreach./ Contributed photo

SHELTON - Crosby Commons Independent and Assisted Living has announced that Jake DeLucia, Wesley Village community staff member, has been selected for the 2017 Young Leader of the Year Award by the Connecticut Assisted Living Association.

Jake was honored at the 22nd Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner and presented this prestigious award for his exemplary leadership skills, maturity, and vision that inspires residents and staff members.

"I was shocked when I found out that Jake was a high school senior. I have never met a teenager who was so caring, respectful, mature, and considerate as Jake is," Lori Pisani, Executive Director of Crosby Commons, said.

Jake started in dining, began filling in as a part-time receptionist to cover vacations, and now he is a regular part of the team. He is aware of the residents and sincerely cares about their well-being. If he sees something, he does something.

Jake has tenderly composed five hard-cover picture books featuring residents, family members, and employees of Crosby Commons. The residents love the books that have been placed throughout the community for all to enjoy, not just because they love seeing their pictures, but because their beloved Jake has made them.

Although Jake will be leaving in January to attend college and will be sincerely missed by residents, family, and staff, it is wonderful to know he is leaving with the honor, “Young Leader of the Year.” 

Congratulations, Jake!

For more information on Crosby Commons, call 203.225.5024 or  visit www.crosbycommons.org.

This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.