The aim is to help folks have fresh water

MILFORD — A 5K walk, 5K race and a children’s fun run will start at 9 a.m. June 4 at Foran High School.


Proceeds will help bring fresh running water to Rwesigiire, Uganda.

The event is called Running Water For Africa 5K Race and is sponsored by Uganda Farmers Inc.

Proceeds will finance the cost of a solar-powered water pumping station in the village of 600 people.

The event includes awards, refreshments and entertainment.

For more details, visit http://www.ugandafarmersinc.org/, email janeh@hollerandholler.com or call 203-376-3283.

People of all ages are welcome as volunteer docents

MILFORD — The Milford Historical Society, 34 High St., is offering free training for anyone who wants to be a docent.


The program is at 1 p.m. June 4.

Docents will learn about the city’s history. The museum is open seasonally, 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The volunteers can be any age and don’t need to be historians. Costumes are not required, but are available.

For more information, contact Ardienne Damicis, education chairwoman, at 203-877-1851.

"If You Care, Leave It There"

Spring and summer are busy times, for people and animals.  Many animals are setting up territories, building nests, or finding den sites to give birth and raise their young.  At the same time, people are spending more time outdoors and the chances are greater that someone may come across a young bird or mammal that may appear to be orphaned or injured. In situations where young animals are found, keep in mind that many animals leave their young alone for long periods of time, so your help may not be needed.  In all likelihood, the adult is nearby watching and waiting to return.

White-tailed Deer: This is especially true with deer, as the females (does) leave their fawns alone, except for feeding times. Fawns are fed by the doe three to four times a day, with feeding time lasting about 15 minutes. For the first several days after birth, fawns instinctively freeze and will lay motionless when approached.

"It is best not to touch the fawn, but rather leave it alone for at least 24 hours to determine whether the adult is returning for feedings," said Rick Jacobson, director of the Department of Environmental Protection Wildlife Division.  "While waiting for the doe to return, it is important that both people and dogs stay away from the fawn.  A truly orphaned fawn will show signs of distress by walking around aimlessly and calling out for several hours."

Birds: Many people find young birds hopping around the yard in June and July.  Most of these birds are old enough to leave the nest, but are still not efficient fliers.  If you find a fully feathered, young bird that is unable to fly, it is best to leave it where it was found.  The adults are probably still caring for the young bird, which should be capable of flying within a few days.  Remember to keep pets away from the bird and watch it closely for at least an hour to see if the parents are returning to feed it.

If you find a young bird on the ground that appears to not have feathers, look for a nest.  If a nest is in a nearby tree or shrub and the bird feels warm to the touch, try to place the nestling back into the nest.  If the nest has fallen on the ground, make a new nest with a wicker basket and some dry grasses and hang the basket with the nestling in it in a nearby tree or shrub.  Most birds have a poorly developed sense of smell and will not be scared away by your smell if you touched the young bird.  Be sure to watch the nest carefully for at least an hour to see if the adults return to find and feed their nestling.

Injured Animals: If you find an animal that is definitely injured or orphaned, remember to:

·         Avoid direct contact;

·         Keep pets and children away from the animal;

·         Use heavy gloves to transfer the animal to a cardboard box or escape-proof container;

·         Try to keep the animal in a warm, quiet place;

·         Contact an authorized wildlife rehabilitator.

Wild Animals as Pets: Keeping wild animals as pets is discouraged, may be illegal, and when legal is subject to state and federal regulations.  Raising wild birds and mammals for successful return to the wild requires considerable knowledge of feeding formulas, countless hours of care, and outdoor caging.  Improper care results in underweight and undernourished animals or animals that are not releasable because they have become too accustomed to being around people.

"Although it may be natural to want to assist young animals, caring for them may actually do more harm than good," added Jacobson.  "It may be dangerous too, as direct contact may result in exposure to rabies or other diseases carried by wildlife.  Be aware that even young mammals can carry and transfer the rabies virus in saliva.  Handling a potential rabies carrier, such as a baby raccoon, without proper precautions may require that the animal be euthanized for rabies testing."

In Connecticut, there are approximately 250 authorized volunteer wildlife rehabilitators with the skills and training to care for sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife.  To obtain the names of wildlife rehabilitators in your area, check the DEP Web site at www.ct.gov/dep/wildlife; contact the DEP Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011 (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM); the DEP Emergency Dispatch Center at 860-424-3333 (after hours or on weekends); or contact your local nature center.  Individuals interested in learning more about becoming a wildlife rehabilitator should contact Laurie Fortin of the Wildlife Division, at 860-424-3963 or laurie.fortin@ct.gov.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

And it's a "A Colorful World"

The collection of original acrylic and watercolor paintings by Stratford artist Betty J. Mulholland, will be the June exhibit at the Stratford library.  The exhibit is free and open to the public and one of many art displays offered on an annual basis at the library.

After a 26-year career of teaching elementary school in Fairfield, Mulholland retired in 1996.  In 2002 she and her husband spent their winters in Stuart, Florida and it was here that Mulholland started painting in acrylic.  After several workshops, she became a member of the Art Association of Martin County in Florida.  She is also a member of the Stratford Art Guild and has participated in arts shows at the Shakespeare Festival and Boothe Park.  Two of her paintings have won ribbons at the Bethlehem Fair.  This past season Mulholland took a workshop in mixed media and abstract painting with Lisa Young and will soon experiment with oils, charcoal and watercolor on Yupo paper.

Viewing hours for the "A Colorful World" are Monday-Thursday: 10-8 and Friday-Saturday: 10-5.  The art exhibit will continue through June 30 and is located in the Main Lobby of the Stratford Library, 2203 Main Street in Stratford, Connecticut.  For more information, call the Public Relations & Programming Office of the Stratford Library at 203.385.4162 or visit: http://www.stratfordlibrary.org/.

In the photo:  Stratford Artist Betty J. Mulholland will be the featured artist for the month of June at the Stratford Library.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

"It is much harder to describe than it is to do"

Registration is open for an introductory class on Punch Needle Felting at 7 p.m. June 15 at the Woodbridge Library. 

"Punch needle felting is a way of felting that uses barbed needles to entangle wool fibers for embellishment and three dimensional objects. It is much harder to describe than it is to do - it is great fun and easy to learn," according to a statement.

"Using this technique the possibilities are endless, and you are only limited by your imagination. Come and learn this fresh new take on felting." 

Class size is limited to 20, and registration is required.  To register, or for more information, please call 203.389.3433.    

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

 

If so, a Fairfield University camp might be the place for you

FAIRFIELD — Fairfield University’s Media Center will open its doors and share its state-of-the-art facilities, and standout faculty with high school students interested in filmmaking. The camp is being offered for the first time this summer by the Media Center, home of the University’s undergraduate New Media Film, Television and Radio program. Information and registration details for the camp may be found here.

Topics covered include film language and technique, screenwriting, camera operation, lighting elements, audio recording, directing, producing, and digital editing. The camp will take place within the Media Center facilities with modern, high definition equipment, and advanced postproduction hardware and software.
Students will receive intensive individual instruction throughout the week, leading to production and screening of their own short digital films. They will direct their own films while learning the processes of pre-production, production, and post-production of filmmaking as well as serve on crew positions of the films of their fellow students.
Each student film will be screened before an audience of fellow campers, family, and friends at the camp’s film festival, when awards will be given for best film, directing, cinematography, writing and editing. Each student will take home a DVD copy of their work, and a packet for film festival submission.
Three camp sessions will be offered starting July 10-16, July 17-23, and July 24-30. Enrollment in the camp is limited, and interested students are encouraged to register early. For more information please call 203-254-4000 ext. 2676.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

Find out more here about how to enter

WEST HAVEN – The 26th Notre Dame High School of West Haven Golf Open is scheduled for June 27 at Race Brook Country Club in Orange. All proceeds will benefit the School’s Endowment Fund as well as support Notre Dame’s current Campaign for Notre Dame.


If you are interested in playing, becoming a sponsor or donating a gift or gift certificate for the raffle, contact Tournament Co-Chairman Stephen Kirck, Sr. at 203-230-1781 or skirck@chcofne.com or Joe Caldarella at 203-271-2772 or jcaldarella@cox.net.

To download the brochure, which includes player and sponsor forms, visit https://www.notredamehs.com/ndgolfopen. Online registration is available on the website by clicking on the Golf Open Registration link.

Proceeds benefit Notre Dame High School of West Haven Loyalty & Endowment Fund and Campaign for Notre Dame. Shotgun start 12:30 p.m. Entry: $275 per golfer; includes greens fee, cart, lunch, driving range, on-course refreshments, deluxe cocktail reception, open bar, dinner, 3 raffle tickets, tournament gift, door prizes, contests, and awards.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

BRIDGEPORT - St. Vincent's 8^th Annual SWIM Prostate Cancer Institute Celebrity Dinner is set for June 16 at the Holiday Inn.

The event will begin with a Celebrity Meet & Greet Reception at 6 p.m., a silent auction of unique sports memorabilia, and a dinner program at 7:15 p.m. with sports commentary.

Co-chaired by Bill Mitchell of Mitchells Westport and Frank Morse of Carter, Morse and Mathias in Fairfield, the event raised more than $100,000 last year to benefit the SWIM Prostate Cancer Institute at St. Vincent's Medical Center. Calhoun is the event's honorary chairman.

The funds raised from the dinner will allow the SWIM Prostate Cancer Institute to continue its free monthly community screening program for uninsured men age 50 to 60 and high-risk men age 40 to 50. The SWIM PCI provided prostate cancer screenings to more than 336 men in 2010. The SWIM PCI also sponsors monthly support groups, the Prostate Cancer Buddy Network, educational lecture series, clinical trials and financial assistance to cancer patients and their families when needed.

Tickets are $250 for the Meet & Greet Reception, Dinner & Program or $125 for the Dinner & Program only. Table sponsorships are also available.

To purchase tickets or for more information, contact St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation at 203-576-5451.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

Fairfield Museum and History Center will kick off a full summer of history camp adventures on June 27  with "Building Detectives" for grades 3 – 5. 

Students can read a mystery book, but can you read and solve the mysteries of a building? In this exciting one-week camp, students will discover how buildings and architecture can teach us about people from the past.  They'll explore the hidden places of historic buildings and go behind the scenes to discover their mysteries.  Campers will venture on architectural scavenger hunts and build their own structures inspired by the constructed environment around them. 

 And at one of three separate camps from June 27 through July 1 at historic Ogden House in Fairfield, students in grades 3 – 5 will learn about the early settlers and how children lived in the past as they experience historic house tours, the garden, cooking, games, arts and crafts and a wealth of other historical activities.  Campers will explore secret nooks and crannies of Ogden House and learn its mysteries.  Campers will spend the final  day of camp at the Fairfield Museum and History Center where they will experience a day in the life of a student in the 1804 Academy School House and learn to use antique tools in the Victorian Barn and make a surprise, historic treat. 

 

The Museum will also be offering a range of other exciting camps for various grades throughout the summer and registrations would be preferred by at least four weeks before each camp.  Please contact the Museum's Visitor's Service Department at 203-259-1598 or check the web site www.fairfieldhs.org for details. 

 

Other summer camp adventures include,

Session 2: Folktale Fun, July 5 – 8 (4 days), 9am – 12pm Grades 1 – 3  $140 Members / $190 with a Family Membership

Let the beat of a drum and words of a tale whisk you away on a literary journey around the world. Listen to music and read folktales from Native American stories to the myth of John Henry. Campers will create art, masks and costumes to assist them in retelling many classic folk stories inspired by the diversity of the American experience.

 Session 3: Photography -- Grades 5 – 7, July 11 – 15 (5 days), 9am – 3pm, $270 Members / $320 with a Family Membership

View the exceptional works in the IMAGES 2011 photography exhibit and learn about the history and techniques to create your own photographs. Construct your own pinhole camera with a box and discover how cameras manipulate light to create an image.  Bring your digital camera and learn some fun digital imaging techniques on the computer.  At the end of the week we'll have an art show and your parents will be invited to see your work on display at the Fairfield Museum!

 Session 4: History Myths     Grades 4 - 6, July 18 – 22 (5 days), 9am – 3 p.m., $240 Members/ $290 with a Family Membership

Can you separate fact from fiction? Uncover myths in folklore and history through class explorations, discussions and games. Use these discoveries as inspiration to create skits and art projects.  Family and friends will be invited to a revealing showcase on Friday as campers bring historical mysteries to life and introduce their own theories.

 Session 5: American Girls     Grades 3 – 5, July 25 – 29, (5 days), 9am – 3 p.m., $240 Members/ $290 with a Family Membership

Explore different cultures and traditions from early Native Americans through the 1970s in San Francisco with the American Girl historical dolls. Each day will bring new adventures with readings, cooking, art projects and role playing using each doll's story.  We'll travel right through the present with fun activities that celebrate the 2011 Girl of the Year, Kanani.

 Session 9:  The World Around Me, August 29 (1 day workshop), 9am – noon, Grades 2–5     $35

Document the sights, sounds and colors of the Burr Mansion gardens by creating mixed media paintings and collages with objects found in the natural environment.

 Session 10: A Portrait of Me, August 30 (1 day workshop), 9am – noon, Grades 2–5     $35

Throughout history, portrait painting has played an important part in documenting the past. Explore the art of portraits and create your own paintings to best express "the real me." Different materials, backgrounds, colors and textures tell the story about who you are!

 

MILFORD - Beth-El Center, a 34-bed transitional housing shelter and soup kitchen, will holds its annual “Light Up the Harbor for Beth-El!” fundraiser from 6 to 11 p.m. June 4 at the Milford Yacht Club.
The event will support the organization’s 30-year mission to provide housing, meals, and support services for homeless individuals and families, with the goal to prevent and end homelessness in the community, organizers said in a statement.
The event will include dining, dancing, entertainment and an auction, the statement said.
The soup kitchen staff and its many volunteers serve 50 to 70 hot, nutritious lunches daily, while church and community groups provide weekend meals. Beth-El Center is located at 90 New Haven Ave. and serves the surrounding area.
 In 2010, Beth-El served 19,595 meals and provided shelter to 267 individuals – almost a quarter of whom were women and children, the statement said.
For more information on the Beth-El Center, visit http://www.bethelmilford.org/

In addition to dining and dancing, guests may bid on a wide range of gifts donated by local merchants during silent and live auctions. Tickets are $75 per person. For reservations or to become an event sponsor, please contact Susan Lapine, at susanlapine@wavesofchange.com, or (203) 283-7098. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. It is unedited here.

Duck Island in Westbrook also closed for nesting season

 

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection has announced measures to protect birds that live in coastal and offshore areas and is asking for the public's cooperation in ensuring the safety of these species.

The DEP announced that Charles Island in Milford and Duck Island in Westbrook will be closed to the public from now through September 9, to prevent disturbances to nesting birds. Both islands have been designated by DEP as Natural Area Preserves, primarily because of their importance as nesting habitats for several state-listed birds, including snowy egrets and great egrets (state threatened species), glossy ibis, and little blue herons (state special concern). The two islands have also been designated as Important Bird Areas by Audubon Connecticut.

In addition, the DEP is asking beachcombers, sunbathers, and boaters along the Connecticut shoreline to respect the fencing and yellow signs warning of piping plover and least tern nesting sites. The piping plover, a small, sandy-colored shorebird about the size of a sparrow, is a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act, as well as a state threatened species in Connecticut. The small, gull-like least tern, which nests in colonies in the same beach habitat as the piping plover, also is a state threatened species.

"Each year the DEP closes Charles and Duck Island during the nesting season to protect various bird species and to safeguard piping plovers and least terns on their beaches," said DEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Frechette.  "Closing the islands and enlisting the public's help and cooperation are simple but effective ways to protect these birds." 

 

Background: Closing of Charles and Duck Islands

Protecting heron and egret nesting areas on Charles and Duck Islands are important steps to prevent disturbances that can result in abandonment of the nests and possibly of the entire colony. This would have a tremendous negative effect on these declining bird populations.

To protect the nesting colonies (also known as rookeries) on Charles and Duck Islands, educational signs have been erected at access points describing these rare birds and why they should not be disturbed. Additionally, the sites are posted with island closure notices; the rookeries are fenced; and signs are posted that read "Do Not Enter – Bird Nesting Area."

"When young birds become agitated by disturbances, they often fall from the nest," added Deputy Commissioner Frechette.  "The adults then will not care for these grounded young birds, which ultimately die of starvation or predation.  If the disturbances continue repeatedly, the adults may completely abandon the nesting area."

Examples of disturbances to these rookeries include unleashed dogs (which are perceived as predators by the birds), boat and kayak landings, humans approaching fenced nesting areas, camp-outs, and bonfires.

Signs stating the closure of Charles and Duck Islands are posted and DEP Environmental Conservation Police Officers will be patrolling the islands, particularly on weekends and after dark. Anyone caught trespassing on the islands will be arrested. Landing of watercraft on the beaches is prohibited. The public can help to protect nesting birds by following the closure and reporting any observed violations at 1-800-842-4357.

Background: Protection of Piping Plovers and Least Terns

Each year, the DEP delineates nesting sites of these state-threatened birds with rope or fencing to prevent human disturbance, which may cause nest abandonment or the loss of eggs and chicks. This step is taken in an effort to reverse the decline in piping plover and least tern populations caused by the loss of beach habitat to residential and recreational development.

These shorebirds need special protection throughout their April to August nesting season and especially during the increased beach activity over the long Memorial Day and Fourth-of-July weekends. By obeying the warning signs and staying away from the fenced areas, beach visitors can avoid disturbing the nesting birds.

Both piping plovers and least terns use a shallow depression in the sand for a nest. Their sand-colored eggs and young are so well camouflaged that they are easily stepped on. When intruders approach, young piping plovers are likely to stand motionless while the adult tries to attract attention by pretending to have a broken wing or flying around the intruder. If you witness this behavior, DEP advises you to move away from the area at once. Further disturbance may cause the adults to leave the nesting area, subjecting eggs or young to death by exposure or predation.

The DEP Wildlife Division also provides the following advice to protect nesting shorebirds:

·         Refrain from walking dogs or allowing cats to roam freely on beaches during the nesting season. Dogs and cats are frequent predators of piping plovers and least terns.

·         Always keep dogs on a leash.

·         If you live near a beach, do not let your pets roam during the nesting season.

·         Do not bury or leave trash, picnic leftovers, and fish scraps on a beach. They attract predators of shorebird chicks and eggs, such as skunks, raccoons, foxes, and black-backed gulls.

·         Do not attempt to "rescue" young birds that appear to be lost or too young.

·         Do not attempt to remove young birds from the beach to care for them at home. In most cases, when immature birds are found alone, the adults have been frightened away but remain nearby and will return to their young once the intruder leaves.

It is illegal to hold wildlife for rehabilitation without proper state or federal permits. In addition, shorebirds have a unique diet that people would find hard to duplicate, probably resulting in starvation of the young bird. Any violations affecting wildlife should be reported to the DEP's 24-hour, toll-free hot line: 1-800-842-HELP.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed in a DEP press release.

The program is free.

Registration is now open for "A Taste of Korea" at 1 p.m. June 18 at the Woodbridge Library.

Learn about Korean culture at this free program, presented by the Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project.

Two documentary films will be screened, introducing the 5,000 year-long history of Korean artistic legacies and the extent of Korea's modern development. 

The afternoon also will include a reenactment of a Korean wedding ceremony, plus a traditional Korean meal will be served to everyone in attendance.

This program is free and open to the public.  Registration is required.  To register or for more information: please call 203.389.3433.

 Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. 

Dana August, of Carlsbad, Calif., celebrates after receiving her diploma at Fairfield University's 61^st commencement.

 

Jorge Luis Espino, a Communication-Media Studies major from Miami, Florida, was one of the 858 undergraduates who earned bachelor's degrees from Fairfield University on May 22, 2011.

 

The Honorable Maryanne Trump Barry, a highly influential judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals Third Circuit, was Fairfield University's 2011 commencement speaker. She also received an honorary degree from the Jesuit institution.

 

Mr. and Mrs. Donald Trump attended the ceremony. Donald Trump is the brother of Judge Maryanne Trump Barry.

 

Stephen Bottari, of Chelmsford, Mass., a double major in Communication and Politics, delivered the valedictory address.

 

 

 

Fairfield University awards 858 diplomas at 61^st annual commencement for undergraduates

 

FAIRFIELD, Conn., May 22, 2011 – As the sun struggled to make an appearance, Fairfield University awarded diplomas to 858 undergraduate students at the 61st commencement exercise today. The university also awarded seven associate's degrees, from the School of Engineering and University College. Commencement for students in graduate programs will take place this afternoon when 405 master's degrees and 22 certificates of advanced study will be awarded. Attended by an estimated 7,000 family members and friends, the morning ceremony at the Jesuit institution was an opportunity for Fairfield to continue its tradition of celebrating students and honorary degree recipients who are "men and women for others."

 

It seemed fitting, then that the keynote speaker was also an individual who has a profound commitment to Ignatian ideals of service: the Honorable Maryanne Trump Barry, a highly influential judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals Third Circuit, which covers Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Regarded as a community leader with a longstanding commitment to education, Barry's commitment to service has led her to support the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, Sacred Heart Church in Camden, N.J., the New York Province Society of Jesus, and earthquake relief groups in Chile and Haiti.

 

Speaking at the ceremony on Bellarmine Hall lawn, Judge Barry spoke of the immense value of a Jesuit education.

 

A Manhattan resident, she spoke of how faith, courage, and hope are essential in life. Barry emphasized success to her isn't solely about professional success but something that can be measured in other ways such as by bringing a child into the world and raising that child to be a good man or good woman. "I have always said my greatest success is my son," she noted.

 

Barry went on to say to the graduating class that there is no substitute for "good, old-fashioned hard work." "By dint of hard work, we make our luck," the judge observed. Noting the asset of having the "good Lord" in her life, she insisted to the Class of 2011 that they not be deterred by any fears or insecurities that they might harbor, as she has not been immune to feeling scared many times in her life.

 

"You will never know what you can do unless and until you try," she said. "You will find with every little success, the fears and the insecurities will gradually fade away… But even if you don't succeed in reaching a particular goal, you grow from the trying. And then you try again."

 

She later added, "And when you are troubled and maybe when you are tired of trying, I recommend to you an inner sanctuary to go to – a few moments or maybe more of peace and reflection and prayer."     

 

Barry urged graduates to fulfill the purpose of the educational mission of Fairfield – "to be the global citizens this new and difficult world needs now." Barry concluded by talking of St. Ignatius linking love of God with love of neighbor. "No exercise is better for the human heart than the reaching down and lifting up of another person - This is the heart of the living part of the integration of life and learning, this is the heart of what you have been taught at this wonderful University – this vision of 'finding God in all things,' " said Barry. "Make it more than a vision.  Look around.  See what needs to be done and do it."

 

Stephen Bottari, Jr., of Chelmsford, Mass., a double major in Communication and Politics in the College of Arts & Sciences, delivered the valedictory address. A fixture within the university's Media Center, he has put his affable personality to work by hosting campus events such as Cinefest. A Fairfield service trip to Ecuador changed his life's path, he told his fellow graduates. There, at an after school program, he met a little girl, undaunted by the poverty and determined to become a doctor. He quickly became passionate about pursuing his own calling: helping people share their stories via journalism.

"[Afterwards] I became a leader at the student television station and I focused my studies more on storytelling: in television, in film and in books," said Bottari, noting his next move was a demanding internship at ABC News. "The lack of sleep and the sheer amount of work were managed by this spark that had been ignited inside me that led me to push beyond what I thought were boundaries of my capabilities.

 

"So today, I challenge each one of you here – graduates, faculty and family alike – to really ask yourself, what is the reason for which you get out of bed every morning?" asked Bottari, imploring his peers, "Take this Fairfield University education. Take the responsibilities it bears with it…. Climb the mountains of love; map out the rivers of friendship; unearth your purpose."

 

With an eye toward working in television news, he will pursue his master's degree and work as a teaching assistant at Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School Of Public Communications.

 

Fairfield University President Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J., urged graduates to engage with the world in a transformative manner, and to make that world a more just and compassionate place. "We hope as you go forward that you will remember how the education you received here has made you the person that you are: an integrated person and a person of integrity," he said. "As your teachers and supporters, we have asked you to reach for the highest standards, to reach for 'the more.' We have also asked you during your time here to look into your own hearts. We have asked you to discern that along with the privilege of education comes the obligation to be of service to those who need what you have to give."

 

This year, one Dolan School of Business graduate and two College of Arts & Sciences graduates were awarded the Bellarmine Medal, which is given to the student with the highest four-year academic average: Diane E. Kremheller, of Greenwich, Conn., an accounting major, who will be working for PricewaterhouseCoopers; economics major Aaron M. Brown, of Seymour, Conn., who landed a position with Goldman Sachs in New York City; and biology major Sarah T. Lander, of Narrowsburg, N.Y., who will be attending medical school at SUNY Upstate Medical University.

 

Fr. von Arx presented international studies and creative writing double major Eric Clayton, of North Wales, Pa., with the St. Ignatius Loyola Medal, presented annually by the Fairfield University Alumni Association to the senior who best exemplifies the true spirit of a Jesuit education. A resident assistant, writing tutor and Eucharistic minister, he will soon travel to South America to work with at-risk children and young adults in impoverished Bolivia.

 

Graduates also included New Haven, Conn. native Adam LaVorgna, an actor who starred in the television show "7th Heaven" before earning his bachelor of arts from University College. After picking up her diploma in the morning, Jennifer Nicole Lawlor, of Westwood, Mass., will return for the graduate ceremony in the afternoon. She is the first student to complete the School of Engineering's five-year B.S./M.S. program, geared to the next generation of engineers finding software solutions to complex technological and societal problems. She is fielding job offers, while interning for NASDAQ. While at Fairfield, School of Nursing graduate and Ohio native Michael Cicirelli became an activist via his "Project Halo" initiative by speaking out against abuse and discrimination against gays and lesbians, based on the acts of intolerance he endured as a high school student. He's been accepted to Fairfield's new Doctor of Nursing program.  

 

In the Class of 2011, Fairfield also counts among its ranks students who took on other social justice projects, provided a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves, raised environmental awareness on campus, and created student living and learning programs.

 

Dana August, of Carlsbad, Calif., the recipient of a Student Achievement Award for environmental action, plans to work on Fairfield University's campus carbon footprint reduction plan after graduation. Shawne Lomauro, of Freehold, N.J., who received a Student Achievement Award for her numerous campus social activism efforts, will put her economics degree to good use by working for Ernst & Young's transfer pricing department in New York City. Additional graduates singled out by the university with Student Achievement Awards included Joseph Calvaruso, of Pelham Manor, N.Y., who plans to conduct an independent study within the field of psychology; Lauren Johnson, of Southington, Conn., an English major, who will be joining the Urban Catholic Teachers Corps of Boston College. Through the program, she will teach at a Catholic high school in Boston while pursing a master's degree at BC; and Janet Latuga, of East Williston, N.Y., a marketing major who was honored with the William J. Kramer '60 Humanitarian Award for improving the lives of artisans in Nicaragua with a Dolan School project that will continue after she leaves. 

 

Judge Barry received an honorary degree with three other distinguished honorees: Stamford, Conn. native Russell L. Goings, co-founder of Essence Magazine and a former NFL player who studied writing and poetry at Fairfield; Rev. John W. O'Malley, S.J., renowned historian and a university professor in the Department of Theology at Georgetown University; and Fairfield, Conn. resident Joseph D. Sargent, former president and CEO of Guardian Life who graduated Fairfield in 1959.

 

Speaking at the graduate ceremony today at 3 p.m. will be Fairfield, Conn. native Rear Admiral Brian P. Monahan, a 1982 graduate of Fairfield, attending physician for the United States Congress and United States Supreme Court. A pioneer in the medical field, Dr. Monahan has served as lead investigator on numerous clinical trials of novel anti-cancer drugs leading to innovations in colon cancer and clinical pharmacology.  Monahan will be presented with an honorary Doctor of Science degree.  

 

Editor's note: All information in the post was contributed. 

All photos by Jean Santopatre.

Bridgeport Hospital celebrated Nurses Week May 6–12 with a series of activities that included awards ceremonies, complimentary chair massages, distribution of gifts, a presentation on how nursing impacts patients and caregivers in cancer care, and a community cleanup project at Seaside Park.

"We have a tremendous nursing staff," said Senior Vice President, Patient Care Operations MaryEllen Kosturko. "I am proud and honored to lead this team."

Bridgeport Hospital Nurses Week award winners, all selected by their colleagues for outstanding performance on the job, include:

• Susana Araujo of Oxford, Geriatric Psychiatry – Excellence in Psychiatric Nursing Award
• Carmen Ayala of Bridgeport, Endoscopy – Greater Bridgeport Medical Association Award
• Brooke Barbee of Stratford, Cardiology – Mary Cortellini Nursing Award
• Alice Bennett of Bridgeport, Oncology – Donald Walsh Award
• Michele DiLella of Monroe, Performance Management – Neurovascular Surgery Award
• Karen Hellthaler of Trumbull, Orthopedics-Neurosurgery-Urology – Nurse Excellence Award
• Daniela Marcoccia of Monroe, P.T. Barnum Pediatric Center – School of Nursing Mentoring Award
• Mary McNiff of Orange, Cystoscopy – Surgery Nursing Award
• Renée Moyé of Milford, Oncology – Karen Oddie Avellino Nursing Award
• Terri Nelson of Monroe, Ahlbin Centers Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit – William H. Baird Rehabilitation Nursing Award
• Jan O'Neil of Bridgeport, Emergency Department – Excellence in Emergency Nursing Award
• Jancee Pust-Marcone of Stratford, Surgical ICU – Bridgeport Hospital Foundation Spirit of Volunteerism Award
• Marsha Telesha of Stratford, P.T. Barnum Pediatric Center – Georgieanne Hiznay Pediatric Nursing Award
• Claudette Thyme of Milford, Resource Support Unit – Barbara Hunstein Award

Hope Juckel-Regan of Old Lyme was recognized at the ceremony for her 19 years of leadership and support, first as Bridgeport Hospital's Senior Vice President, Patient Care Services and then as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Juckel-Regan announced that she will retire this summer.

Michele DiLella was also one of 11 Bridgeport Hospital nurses who received regional Florence Nightingale Awards for nursing excellence at a Stamford reception on May 5. The hospital's other Nightingale Award winners are Karen Anderson of Stratford, Labor & Delivery; Claire Chianese of New Fairfield, Psychiatry; Elizabeth Foden of Trumbull, P.T. Barnum Pediatric Center; Russell Hullstrung of Beacon Falls, Organization Development & Education; Carol Knee of Stratford, Ahlbin Centers Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit; Georgia Patnode of Prospect, Internal Medicine; Stacey Peace of West Haven, Resource Support Unit; Gini Neglia of Milford, Cardiovascular Services; Yvonne Wilkins of Trumbull,  P.T. Barnum Pediatric Center; and Vanessa Winder of Westport, Resource Support Unit.

In photo: Bridgeport Hospital Nurses Week award recipients (L-R) Michele DiLella, Daniela Marcoccia, Marsha Telesha, Brooke Barbee, Karen Hellthaler, Hope Juckel-Regan, Carmen Ayala, Renée Moyé, Jan O'Neil, Terri Nelson, Claudette Thyme, Alice Bennett, Jancee Pust-Marcone and Mary McNiff. Not pictured: Susana Araujo.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. It is unedited here and posted as a public service.

There are many location to obtain the applications.


The following have applications: Animal Clinic of Milford, 135 Gulf St.; Baybrook Animal Hospital, 56 Quirk Road; Black Birch Farm LLC, 44 Old Gate Lane; Canine Connection Dog Training LLC, 32 Greenview Lane; Companion Animal Hospital of Milford, 100 Lansdale Ave.; Foxy’s Pet Grooming, 253 Naugatuck Ave.; Groom Room, 801 Boston Post Road; Milford Animal Hospital, 256 Cherry St.; Milford Veterinary Clinic, 525 Boston Post Road; The Natural Dog, 203 Bridgeport Ave.; The Pet Co., 1201 Boston Post Road; Pond Point Animal Hospital, 632 New Haven Ave.; Purr-fect Pets, 286 Boston Post Road; Shoreline Pet Grooming, 365 New Haven Ave.; Silver Sands Veterinary Center, 17 Seeman’s Lane, Snowflake Boarding Kennels, 1 Rowe Ave. and Somers Dog Grooming Services, 632 New Haven Ave.. Applications are also available at the city dog shelter, 664 E. Broadway.

For details, call 203-783-3210 or email cityclerk@ci.milford.ct.us.
Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

You're invited...

With the start of this year's boating season upon us we are reminded that safety should not be taken lightly. Annually in America there are nearly 4,000 boating accidents and almost 800 deaths. Connecticut had nearly 60 accidents resulting in 10 deaths last year alone

 

National Safe Boating week, observed this year between May 21 and May 27, was established to promote awareness of safe boating practices for vessel owners, operators and their guests.

In Stratford, a group of water safety agencies work together within an agreement initiated by the Stratford Waterfront and Harbor Management Commission to respond to and aid each other in immediate response as well as search and rescue. They include Stratford's Police & Fire Marine units, Harbormaster and Coast Guard Auxiliary. Although these agencies exist to respond to maritime emergencies, boating safety is the responsibility of everyone who takes to the water in any type or size vessel.

The public is invited to a gathering of these safety partners at a press conference regarding Boating Safety that will be held on May 23 at 10:30 am at the Birdseye St. Boat launching Coast Guard Aux base. It will be presented by the Stratford Waterfront and Harbor Commission.

Bill Rock, chairman of the Stratford Waterfront and Harbor Management Commission, who is also public affairs officer for the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary will host this event. Rock said, "It is not only important to wear a life jacket but also to take safe boating & seamanship classes, outfit vessels with additional proper safety equipment and practice safe boating habits when on the water. This year we are emphasizing paddle-craft safety. In recent years there has been a significant increase in the amount of fatalities associated with the use of paddle-craft, such as kayaks. Their popularity has grown rapidly over the past decade.  Factoring in fuel prices, there is the potential for even more people to purchase relatively inexpensive, non fuel burning, paddle powered craft to enjoy our waterways. We encourage boaters using any size vessel to put safety first"  

The public will be able to view the Stratford Police and Fire marine units, the harbormaster boat, the Coast Guard Auxiliary patrol boat and a United States Coast Guard RBS-25 response vessel.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. It is unedited here for content and shared in the interest of public safety.

On May 16, the Lauralton Hall oceanography class led by science teacher April Kelley was awarded a certificate of participation for completing the global initiative, Challenge 20, sponsored by the National Association for Independent Schools.

Challenge 20 is based on Jean-François Rischard's book "High Noon 20 Global Problems, 20 Years to Solve Them."

 In this project, students were challenged to investigate and help solve one of the 20 problems explored in Rischard's book.

The oceanography class, partnered with Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg, Fla. and the Al Hekma International School in Bahrain to investigate the causes and potential solutions for marine pollution.  The three classes communicated through a student designed and maintained project wiki.  Through their work together not only did the students learn about their topic, they learned about the similarities and differences between their cultures and made some new friends.  

Kelley hopes to continue working with NAIS on Challenge 20 in the upcoming school year.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

The following is a press release from the Milford Police Department

The Police Officer Standards & Training Council awarded the Milford Police Department a Tier I & II State Accreditation and presented the certificate on May 12, 2011.
The Milford Police Department, under the command of Chief Keith L. Mello, has chosen to voluntarily seek this highly coveted award to demonstrate to the community a commitment to law enforcement excellence.
Accreditation is for three years, during which time our agency must continue to be in compliance with the standards set forth by Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), under the direction of the Milford Police Department’s accreditation manager.
Accreditation Process
The accreditation process consists of maintaining compliance with professionally recognized law enforcement standards. The Accreditation Manager who oversees, directs and manages the 207 standards on a day-to-day basis conducts this process.
Benefits of Accreditation
There are several benefits of accreditation, which are outlined below: Controlling liability insurance costs Preparing stronger defenses against lawsuits and citizen complaints Providing an increase in community advocacy Increasing town government awareness as to how the police department is being managed Symbolizes professionalism, excellence and competence within an agency Accreditation ensures policies and procedures are in place to guide employees and protect citizens. It also ensures a complete audit of the department every three years.
For more information regarding the accreditation process refer to the state website for the Police Officer Standards and Training Council (http://www.ct.gov/post/site/default.asp)
The Milford Police Department is seeking a Tier III accreditation and has begun that process.

All are welcome to share joy and music at Temple Emanuel's final two musical Shabbat Services for spring 2011, scheduled for May 20 and June 24 at 8 p.m.

The Temple Emanuel band includes 17 temple member musicians who range in age from 10 to 60-something. The band is comprised of a rhythm section, a string quartet and a wind section made up of saxophones, clarinet and euphonium.  The members include several parent/child groups and two Rabbis.

The band is led by Rabbi Michael Farbman and Laurel Shader; the music, ranging from contemporary to traditional, is arranged for the band by Shader.

Please visit the Temple Emanuel website and calendar templeemanuel-gnh.org for more information.

Temple Emanuel http://www.templeemanuel-gnh.org/, located at the corner of Dogwood Road and Derby Turnpike (Route 34) in Orange, is an open and affirming Reform Jewish congregation of approximately 150 families from more than 12 towns in greater New Haven and the Housatonic River Valley. For more information, or to request a membership packet, call 397-3000.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

STRATFORD — The second annual Boothe Memorial Park & Museum Antique and Classic Car Show will be held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 15 at 5800 Main St., Putney.


Rain date is May 22.

Presented by the Connecticut Seaport Car Club, Eastern Packard Club & The Friends of Boothe Memorial Park.

There are free activities for the whole family and benefits the Friends of Boothe Park.

All show cars welcome. 200 Dash Plaques, Goodie Bags, Trophies, Food, Bake Sale, Ice Cream. Groups that arrive together can park together in a beautiful, historic setting off the Merritt Parkway. All 20 buildings on the Boothe estate will be open free to public: model trains, blacksmith, observatory, sheep shearing, rose garden, machines and carriages. Music, art, drama, and hands-on events. Flag raising by Port 5 Naval Veterans at 11:30.

Registration, $10 per show vehicle: http://www.ctseaportcarclub.com/carshows.htm

Additional info: Contact Rich Iannucci - 203-610-3330

info@ctseaportcarclub.com

Milford Chamber of Commerce Trust Scholarships 2011
$21,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TO LOCAL YOUTH

The Milford Chamber of Commerce annually awards scholarships to students from the Milford area. The scholarships are funded through the Milford Chamber of Commerce Trust Fund and the BIC Golf Classic that is held annually. This year’s tournament will take place on July 11, 2011 at Mill River Country Club. Local businesses participate in the tourney that is a full day event. The proceeds help fund the scholarship trust and the Student Mini Grant program.
This year’s awards, sponsored by AT&T, will be presented on Friday, May 20, 2011 at the Milford Chamber’s annual “State of the City Luncheon”, with Mayor James Richetelli as keynote speaker at Aldario’s Restaurant.
Also awarded will be Milford Pride's Annual “White Glove Award” that will be presented to Cyrus Settineri, The Yankee Professional Building for beautification of the building.

Students being awarded scholarships are as follows:

Awards to Jonathan Law High School Students:

Trevor DeEll, McInnis Companies Scholarship - $500
This scholarship is awarded to a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at college or university, or vocational, trade or business school.

Meaghan Abbott, The Richard Dalton Memorial Scholarship - $500
This scholarship is in memory of Richard Dalton, Milford High School Class of 1963 and is awarded to a student pursing a degree in the field of physical education or health sciences.

Samantha Orfino, The Edmund Meinket Memorial Scholarship - $1,000
This scholarship is awarded in memory of Edmund Meinket Past President of the Milford Chamber 1980. The recipient is a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at college or university, or vocational, trade or business school.

Sokhouth Chay, $750 - Schick Scholarship
This scholarship is to a student graduating high school beginning their first year of study at a college or university in the field of Engineering.

Marilyn Rideout, $1,000 - Kingdom Life Christian Church Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a student who has demonstrated high academic achievement and demonstrated consistent selfless service to others.

Jaclyn Davis, $1,000 - Peter J. Nagle Financial Management Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to an employee or the child of an employee of a member of the Milford.

Casey McMahon, $500 - Milford Lions Club Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at college, university, vocational, trade or business school.

Ellen Giordano, $1,000 - The Milford Consortium for Child Care Initiatives
This scholarship is awarded to a student studying in the field of early childhood or elementary education.


Awards to Joseph A. Foran High School Students:

Katherine Sylvester, The James Catalanotto Memorial Scholarship - $500
In memory of Jim Catalanotto
Awarded to a student beginning his/her first year of study at a college or university pursing a degree in the field of music

Rebecca Giden, $1,000 - Napoli Nissan Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school student enjoying academic excellence beginning their first year of study at a college or university.

Wade Hyatt, R. J. Reuter Business Success Scholarship, $500
Awarded to a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at a college or university in the State of Connecticut pursuing study in the field of Business.

Roshni Patel, $2,500 - The Daniel T. Meisenheimer Jr. Memorial
This scholarship is awarded to the child of an employee of a member of the Milford Chamber of Commerce, who will be beginning his or her first year of study at college or university majoring in the area of science, technology, engineering or bio-science or vocational, trade or business

Paul Huebner, McInnis Companies Scholarship - $500
This scholarship is awarded to a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at college or university, or vocational, trade or business school.

Taylor Collins, $500 - Joan M. Heybruck Community Service Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a Milford resident who has shown service and commitment to the Milford community.

Kieryn DeYoe - Humanitarian Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to someone who has demonstrated consistent selfless service to others.

Cristina LaPenna, $1,000 - The J. Bruce Eagleson Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is In memory of J. Bruce Eagleson, Regional Vice President of Westfield Corporation who perished in the World Trade Center, September 11, 2001. Funded by the Westfield Corporation and is awarded to a Milford student beginning his or her first year of study at a college or university majoring in the study of Business.

Hayden Gilmore, $1,000 - Golden Hands Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a student who will be graduating from a Milford high school who will be pursuing a “hands on” skilled trade such as auto body repair, auto mechanics, carpentry, computer hardware repair, construction, culinary arts, electrical, electronics, general contracting, hairdressing, cosmetology, HVAC, machining tools, masonry, plumbing or sheet metal work.

Awards to Platt Technical High School Students:

Samantha Ives, $1,000 - The University of Bridgeport Scholarship
The recipient is a Milford resident beginning their first year of study at the University of Bridgeport.

Kevin Vereen, Jon Lorensen's Acura of Milford Scholarship - $1,000
This scholarship is awarded to a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at a college, university, vocational, trade or business school - 2 or 4 year program

Joseph Eaton, $1,000 - Napoli Indoor Auto Outlet Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school student enjoying academic excellence beginning their first year of study at a college or university.

Kevin Vereen, $1,000 - The Berchem, Moses & Devlin Scholarship
The recipient must be a Milford resident beginning his or her first year of study at a college or university.

Alicia Wormley, $1,000 - The Stonebridge Restaurant Scholarship
The recipient of this scholarship who will begin their first year of study at a culinary institution.

Kurtis Jalbert, $750 - Schick Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a graduate of Platt Technical High School entering a technical or training program in the trades

Andrea DiPucchio , $1,000 -The Marcel Bich Memorial Scholarship
In memory of Marcel Bich, the founder of the BIC Corporation.


The Milford Chamber of Commerce is the only official business organization for the Milford business community. For more information contact: Kathy Alagno, President & CEO at 203-878-0681 or email kalagno@milfordct.com.

BRIDGEPORT -  Free prostate cancer screenings will be offered by St. Vincent's SWIM Prostate Cancer Institute 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on June 15 at  Family Health Center, 762 Lindley St.

APPOINTMENT NECESSARY, Call 203-576-6158         

 

The free program is open to all men age 50 and over and to those age 40 and over whom are at higher risk for prostate cancer due to family history or are of African-American decent. 

Screenings are for uninsured men with limited access to a primary care doctor.  Does not include men currently seeing a urologist or who have been screened within the past year.  St. Vincent's offers the free screenings in an effort to detect cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. The screening program is made possible through funding from St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound, a charitable organization run by St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation.

 

Each screening will include a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test and a digital rectal exam performed by urologists on active staff at St. Vincent's. Symptoms of prostate cancer may include weak or interrupted flow of urine, inability to urinate, frequent urination, burning, bloody urine, or pain in the lower back, pelvis or upper thighs.

 

Cancer of the prostate is the most common type of cancer among American men and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among this group. It is estimated that one out of every ten American men will develop prostate cancer before age 85 with 300,000 deaths annually attributed to it.

 

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call St. Vincent's SWIM Prostate Cancer Institute at 203/576-6158. Appointments are limited.

 

St. Vincent's SWIM Across the Sound is a charitable, grass roots organization run by St. Vincent's Medical Center Foundation.

 

Editor's note: All information in thos post was contributed. It is very lightly edited.

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