All About Milford and Orange

Junior Woman’s Club of Milford seeks nominations for Milford Living Treasures Award.

2012-02-09T16:57:00.000-05:00

The deadline is Feb. 28
MILFORD — The Junior Woman’s Club of Milford Inc., in conjunction with the Panel of Common Good, is seeking candidates for the 2012 Milford Living Treasures Award.
The award will be bestowed upon a candidate whose community service has enriched Milford and made it a better community in which to live. Candidates must be 65 years of age or older, a current resident and lived in Milford for a minimum of 10 years.
To nominate a candidate, submit Your Name, Telephone Number and Email Address; (2) Nominee’s Name, Address, Telephone Number, Email Address and Date of Birth and (3) a statement as to why you consider this nominee A Living Treasure. The statement should include a detailed resume of accomplishments and contributions and that the nominee made to the city of Milford (e.g. volunteerism, organizations, awards won, club memberships, offices held, etc.).
Nominations must be mailed, post marked no later than Feb. 28, to Jerilyn Shannon, Milford Living Treasure Program, Jr. Woman’s Club of Milford, 91 Todd Drive, Milford 06461.

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

Get your Animal's Rabies Shots

2012-02-07T12:57:00.000-05:00

MILFORD – Milford-Orange Animal Control, Dr. Stan Weill and Amity Animal Rescue Fund are hosting a rabies clinic Saturday, Feb. 25, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Milford Animal Control, 664 East Broadway in Silver Sands State Park. Inoculations are $15. Bring proof of current rabies to receive a three-year booster. Area residents are encouraged to make sure their animals are up to date on their rabies. Animal Control has seen an increase in dogs that have come in contact with wild animals. Animals must be on a leash or secured in carriers. Cash or checks. No credit cards accepted.

Flash Mob at Milford mall Saturday

2012-02-03T15:33:00.000-05:00

Theta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
Sponsors A Pink Goes Red Flash mob in Support of “Go Red for Women”

WHAT: Theta Epsilon Omega Chapter will be participating in a flash mob in support of “Go Red For Women” which is a national campaign to bring awareness to the fight against heart disease. Heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, taking the life of one in three women each year. Although the women of Alpha Kappa Alpha traditionally wear pink and green, on February 4 we will wear red in support of the “Go Red” campaign. Our high energy flash mob will demonstrate that there are fun ways to engage in activities that can help prevent heart disease. We will also distribute pamphlets addressing women’s health and wellness. This free event will take place Saturday, February 4 at 12:00 pm at The Westfield Mall in Milford.

WHO: Theta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

WHERE: Westfield Mall (Lower Level Courtyard by MACY’S)
1201 Boston Post Road
Milford, CT

WHEN: Saturday, February 4, 2012
12:00pm

CONTACT: Nicole Murphy
President
Theta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Evelyn Williams
Ivy Leaf Reporter
Theta Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

BACKGROUND

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-trained women. The sorority, which was established in 1908, was formed to foster high scholastic and ethical standards, promote unity and sisterhood, and improve the social stature of African-Americans. Alpha Kappa Alpha’s influence extends beyond college campuses and student interest, and it has a legacy of service that extends beyond college graduation. Alpha Kappa Alpha is comprised of more than 200,000 college-trained women in 950 chapters throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and Africa who believe in “Service to All Mankind.” More information can be found at www.akanewhaven.org or www.aka1908.com.

Just a short trip away: History awaits at the David Humphreys House

2012-02-03T14:19:00.000-05:00

ANSONIA — David Humphreys House, 37 Elm St., will be open for guided tours 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 18, and every third Saturday of the month.
Led by docents, the tour covers the keeping room, Sarah Riggs Humphreys’ parlor, The Rev. Humphreys’ study and a bedroom off the keeping room, know an as the borning room. Spinning and weaving rooms are also included in the tour.
Cost is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and children ages 8 and older and free for children younger than 8.
For more information, call 203-735-1908.

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

Come Meet the Milford Aldermen Monday night

2012-02-03T13:43:00.001-05:00

Milford Board of Aldermen Chairman, Philip J. Vetro, announced that the Board of Alderman will initiate constituent meeting opportunities on nights that the board convenes in regular session. The new program starts on Monday, February 6, 2012.

This initiative, “Good of the Community,” enables Milford residents to meet informally with their aldermanic representatives at City Hall on the evening of regularly-scheduled meetings. Residents are encouraged to meet with their aldermen between 7:15 and 7:30 which precedes the opening of their formal meeting at 7:30. The Board of Alderman will continue to hear public comments addressed to the entire board at the opening of the session.

“We believe in open, representative government, and this procedure provides Milford taxpayers and residents an additional opportunity to speak informally with their aldermanic representatives. We encourage residents—including small groups—to avail themselves of this opportunity," Chairman Vetro said.

Atrial fibrillation topic of free lecture in Trumbull Feb. 28

2012-02-03T12:01:00.002-05:00

Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery Dr. M. Clive Robinson, and cardiac electrophysiologist Dr. Murali Chiravuri, of Bridgeport Hospital's Joel E. Smilow Heart Institute will discuss the causes of and treatments for atrial fibrillation (a-fib) during the free lecture, "Heart All A-Flutter? Get Your Rhythm Back!" at 7 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Trumbull Marriott, 180 Hawley Lane, according to a statement.

Registration is required. Call toll free 1-888-357-2396.
"A-fib is the most common type of heart rhythm disorder, affecting two million Americans. People with a-fib have abnormal electrical signals in the heart's upper chambers that cause the heart to flutter, quiver or shake, rather than beat steadily," the statement said. "This irregular beating causes blood to pool in the heart's chambers, which can lead to the formation of blood clots. These clots can travel to the brain and trigger a stroke."
Further: "Symptoms of a-fib include chest palpitations, fatigue, dizziness and trouble breathing. However, half the people who have the condition are at risk and don't even know it because they experience no symptoms," the satement said. "The easiest way to detect a-fib is by taking your pulse." Bridgeport Hospital's Ring for Your Rhythm provides step-by-step instructions for taking a pulse via a recorded message available toll free at 1-855-BH-PULSE (1-855-247-8573).

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

Annual Milford Oyster Festival announces 2011 Charitable Contribution

2012-02-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

The Annual Milford Oyster Festival committee, along with representatives from the 2011 recipients, gathered at the Milford Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, January 26th for the presentation of the 2011 charitable contributions.

The 2011 recipients include Milford Fire Department Toys for Tots, Milford Police Department Citizen’s Police Academy, the Department of Human Services Heating Assistance Program and Adopt-a-Family Program, Give 2 The Troops, Milford Food Bank, Rape Crisis Center of Milford, Milford Boys & Girls Club, Milford Red Cross, Literacy Center of Milford, Milford Animal Shelter, the Boy Scouts, Prostate Cancer Center and LIVESTRONG, Jonathan Law Post Prom and Foran High Post Prom.

“The Oyster Festival committee is dedicated to supporting these and the other 70+ important civic and non-profit organizations that participate at the Festival each year” stated Jay Pinto, President of the 2012 Festival. “Each of these groups relies on the support of the community and, as the largest tourist event in Milford; the Festival provides an effective forum for highlighting their programs and services in order to expand their reach. In our own small way, we all can support these organizations and I encourage the community to do so.”

The 38th Annual Milford Oyster Festival will be held, rain or shine, on Saturday, August 18th 2012, 10:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Oyster Eve, in conjunction with the Downtown Milford Business Association, will be held Friday, August 17th 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. For more festival information please check our website, www.MilfordOysterFestival.com, or call the festival hotline 203-878-5363.

Milford Kindergarten registration begins February 29th

2012-02-02T15:28:00.000-05:00

MILFORD – Kindergarten registration dates have been set throughout the Milford public school district. Parents with children who will be entering kindergarten in the fall (for the 2012-13 academic year) are asked to call their local school to schedule an appointment to register. Parents can pick up registration materials at the school beginning February 13th during normal operating hours prior to the official registration date. Parents need to complete the required forms prior to attending the official registration session.
A child must reach the age of 5 before January 1, 2013 in order to start kindergarten in the fall. At the time of registration, parents must bring the following items to complete the registration process:

- A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate (with a raised seal);

- A record of any communicable diseases the child may have had;

- A record of the child’s immunization schedule; and

- Two proofs of residency (examples include a current utility bill, mortgage receipt/rent receipt).

Before entry into school in August, each child must have a physical examination that includes a hemoglobin or hematocrit test, vision, hearing, and speech screening. The physical examination cannot have been done earlier than 12 months prior to the date the child enters school.

For more information, please contact your neighborhood school or search our website at www.milforded.org. The dates for kindergarten registration are as follows:

John F. Kennedy: Feb. 29, March 1, 15, 16

Orange Avenue: March 12, 13, 28, 30

Mathewson: March 5, 9, 15, 16

Live Oaks: March 5, 6, 19, 20

Foran High Students Ponder Life’s Big Questions

2012-02-02T15:26:00.000-05:00

Submitted by the Milford Board of Education
MILFORD – What is the purpose of life? Are the decisions you make your own? Or are they predetermined from times past? Does a God exist? Is there validity to ‘Good vs. Evil’? Do we have a mind? A soul? Both?
Tough questions -- on any given day -- but the students of Foran High School and several invited guests were up for the challenge during the school’s 3rd Annual Philosophy Day held on Wednesday, Feb. 1st.
Designed as an extension of the Introduction to Philosophy class, the community-style forum brought students, teachers, parents, grandparents and several other members of the community together to share their thoughts on a wide variety of life’s big questions. While students have deliberated many major philosophical issues over the past several weeks, they realized that perhaps their views were limited since all of their discussions were from a student’s perspective. With nearly a dozen adults joining the tabletop discussions during Philosophy Day, everyone enjoyed the renewed depth and breadth of the dialogue.
Teacher Paul Turtola organized this year’s event and was very pleased with the discussion taking place. “As a teacher, I can introduce the prominent philosophers of the past – and my students can learn the basic themes of each one. We can have discussions in class about prominent issues. But to be able to apply the things the students have learned in this type of forum is fantastic.”
Four tabletop discussions were conducted at a time, each lasting 45 minutes. At the conclusion of the session, participants then rotated to a new table – with a new question to ponder. At one tabletop discussion, a lively conversation took place while tackling the question of ‘planning’ vs. ‘the unexpected’ when going through life and how that impacts the decisions we make.
Several students felt that while routine is a good thing, a marginal amount of unplanned time is a necessity in life. They felt that extreme ‘planners’ may find themselves disappointed most of the time when they do not reach their planned expectations. A wonderful offshoot of this discussion was the consideration of ‘going with the flow’ rather than creating one’s own path and the level of self-awareness a person has.
Another table of participants pondered the concept of ‘an idea’ and whether there was, indeed, original thought or if people are just re-engineering ideas of the past. Formal concepts from past philosophers such as the existence of universal energy and the theory of form made their way into the conversation, as well as the existence of the mind and the soul.
Mr. Turtola reported the Philosophy Day continues to get better and better every year. He hopes that the program continues to gain strength – and even offered that perhaps there could be a combined Foran/Jonathan Law Philosophy Day program in the future, to give yet another perspective on philosophical issues.

CT Free Shakespeare to hold auditions in Bridgeport

2012-02-01T11:50:00.001-05:00

The summer production is of Romeo & Juliet

CT Free Shakespeare invites Equity and Non Equity adults and teens to audition for this summer's production of Romeo and Juliet.

Auditions are Tues. Feb. 21, Wed. Feb. 22 and Thur. Feb. 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bridgeport City Hall Annex- First floor- CT Free Shakespeare Office- 999 Broad Street, Bridgeport.

Rehearsals begin on June 26 in Bridgeport.

All rehearsals are during the day. Romeo and Juliet opens on Friday night July 13 and runs through Sunday, August 5.

Prepare a brief monologue from Romeo & Juliet. No Appointments necessary.

Equity Principals are paid.

For information see www.ctfreeshakespeare.org or email ellen@CTFreeShakespeare.org.

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

Author Mark Albertson To Speak at Stratford Library February 12

2012-01-31T22:27:00.003-05:00

"Sunday Afternoon Talks" Series Offers World War I talk on Feb. 12

The Stratford Library will continue with "Sunday Afternoon Talks", its monthly series of informative and entertaining talks featuring prominent local guest speakers, 2 p.m. Feb. 12 with author/Professor Mark Albertson.

"The popular program invites notable locals to speak in an informal atmosphere on a wide range of topics," the statement said.

Albertson will discuss "The Causes of World War I".

"Sunday Afternoon Talks" is free and open to the public, the statement said.

"Albertson has been a member of the United States Naval Institute for more than 25 years. He is an historical research editor at Army Aviation magazine. He has published articles on issues of history and current events in newspapers and magazines," the statement said

(refer to his web site, MARKWRITER.COM; proceed to the ARTICLE ARCHIVES for published clips).

"Albertson has authored three books: "USS Connecticut: Constitution State Battleship; They'll Have to Follow You!", "The Triumph of the Great White Fleet "and "On History: A Treatise."

In 2005, Albertson was presented with a General Assembly Citation by both houses of the state legislature in Hartford for his efforts in commemorating the centennial of battleship Connecticut, the statement said. He teaches World War II history at Norwalk Community College for the Lifetime Learners Institute.

The series will continue on March 11, with speaker Gerry Gillespie. For more information call the library's Public Relations & Programming Office at 203.385.4162 or visit its website at: www.stratfordlibrary.org.

Also, a book signing event for Albertson will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 13 at LaLuna's Restaurant, 168 Main St., Branford. He will be available to sign copies of his history book, "U.S.S. Connecticut."

Photo: Mark Albertson is the special guest speaker at the Stratford Library, courtesy Stratford Library.

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

Milford Organizations to Host Environmental Film Series

2012-01-31T19:43:00.001-05:00

Several Milford organizations are bringing a series of environmental films to the Milford Library on Saturdays in February and March. The series is being co-sponsored by the Friends of Milford Library, Milford’s Environmental Concerns Coalition, the Benson-Crump Community Gardens Program, and the Milford Garden Club.

On February 11 at 2 PM, Carbon Nation will be shown. This film highlights the small changes that each individual can make to help the environment. It has been called a “climate change solutions movie that doesn’t even care if you believe in climate change.” Environmental Concern Coalition’s Mike Ludwig will be on hand to lead a discussion following the film. Mr. Ludwig, formerly with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA / NMFS) Northeast Aquaculture Center Laboratory at Milford, Connecticut is now Senior Biologist with the oceans &Coastal consultants, located in Trumbull, CT.

On Feb. 25 at 2 PM, local beekeeper and member of the Connecticut Beekeeper’s Association Ralph Harrison will lead a discussion following a screening of the film “The Vanishing of the Bees”. Mr. Harrison has promised to bring up-to-minute news on the scientific thinking about Colony Collapse Disorder, a disease that is threatening the existence of the honeybee worldwide.

On March 3 at 11 AM, Milford Library Children’s Dept. will screen Dr. Seuss’ famous environmental work The Lorax, along with Toxic Toys, a short documentary about the hazardous material that can be found in some toys made overseas. There will be an arts & crafts program for the youngsters. A discussion will follow, lead by Susan Eastwood, Outreach and Communications Director for Clean Water Action, and Joyce Acebo, chairwoman of diesel clean-up for the Environmental Concerns Coalition.

Finally, on March 24 at 10:30 AM, Dirt, a film about the role our earth’s soil plays in our survival as a planet will be screened. Following the film, a short discussion will be lead by Terry Halwes, a scientist who, having 'retired', is free to devote his time to studying how we can create a society that works with nature (including human nature) rather than struggling, in vain, against it. He supports, and is supported by, the Greater New Haven Transition Initiative, the New Haven/Quinnipiac Bioregional Group, the New Haven Shambhala Meditation Center, The Grove (New Haven), and two co-housing communities: Green Haven and the ARC (the Atwater Resources Cooperative).

These events are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. For more information, please call 203-783-3307.

Milford Mayor Blake Puts Brakes on Heating Costs

2012-01-31T19:35:00.000-05:00

Information submitted by Mayor Blake as a press release

MILF0RD--On nights, weekends and other non-traditional office times, Mayor Blake often returns to City Hall to focus on work when the building is unoccupied and not in active use. “It seemed no matter what time I came back to the office, the building was always fully heated,” Blake said. “I know in my house we turn the thermostat down in the evening or when no one will be home in order to save on heating costs. I expect at least the same in our city buildings.”

In addressing this concern, Blake discovered that not only City Hall, but all City buildings were being heated to an average of 72 degrees, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. “I looked at improving this less-than-efficient system as an opportunity to drive waste out of City Government,” Blake said. He cited the Parson’s Government Center as an example of fuel inefficiency, “the Parson’s Building burns thirty-five gallons of fuel an hour.”

Blake met with the City Building Superintendent and set down a directive: have all city buildings on programmable thermostats or energy conservation mechanisms within two weeks. This includes the Parson’s Government Center, City Hall, the Fowler Memorial Building, West Shore Recreation Center, Margaret Egan Center, the Board of Health Building, Fannie Beach, Stern Hall, the Library and the Senior Center.

The efforts have already made considerable progress. “We’ve already purchased fifteen programmable thermostats through our energy management account and have begun installing them,” Blake said.

“I appreciate the teamwork we have seen with Public Works partnering on the effort and helping to drive us toward success.” While definite cost savings numbers are not yet available, it is expected that Blake’s program will save the City tens of thousands of dollars in heating and cooling costs over the

'Learn to See the World:' Low vision support group to meet

2012-01-30T19:08:00.000-05:00

The meeting is free and open to the public.
SHELTON - The next monthly meeting of the low vision support group, Learn to See the World, will be held at 3 p.m. Feb. 15 Crosby Commons at Wesley Village, 580 Long Hill Ave.
The event will be held in the second floor Nautical Lounge. Light refreshments will be served.
Speaker will be Mark Leventhal, president of the Board of Directors for the Connecticut Regional Group for Blind Veterans. He will discuss coping skills for those with low vision.

Individuals with low vision or are legally blind are encouraged to attend for fellowship and support.Contact the group facilitator, Mary Ann Milano, Activities Director at Crosby Commons, 203-225-5018 or at mamilano@umh.org.

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

Downtown Milford Business Association donates once again!

2012-01-30T13:37:00.000-05:00

Information submitted by the MBA
MILFORD--The Downtown Milford Business Association hosted its second annual Wine Trail and as usual it was a tremendous success. It was a fun evening as people gathered at the various downtown shops and businesses to sample flights of wine provided by Milford Wine and Spirits and fabulous food from local restaurants. In addition to sampling wine and food at the 13 shops and businesses, everyone received a commerative downtown wine glass and enjoyed special promotions. It was a perfect evening filled with laughter, great conversation, and meeting old friends all while shopping and dining throughout downtown. What could be better than that? But wait there is more.
This event raised money for two very worthy causes too. The DMBA’s 2012 President, Paul Mangels, presented a check in the amount of $4425.00 to Joe Pelaccia, President and CEO of Milford Hospital. The same amount was also donated to the Tommy Fund For Childhood Cancer. The DMBA committee is very grateful for the help we received from Dick Popilowski who spearheads Milford Hospital’s fundraising activities.
The Downtown is committed to supporting local charities while at the same time encouraging people to get to know our beautiful, historic downtown. So come downtown to Shop, Play and Dine and support our local businesses and charities.
For more information please contact Louise M. Hebert at louisemariehebert@gmail.com

Office Hours with Milford Mayor Blake and State Lawmakers

2012-01-25T15:56:00.000-05:00

State Senator Gayle Slossberg, State Representatives Paul Davis, Kim Rose and Richard Roy and Mayor Benjamin G. Blake announce that they will be holding joint, formal office hours on Thursday, February 2, 2012, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium for all interested Milford residents. While the Mayor and State Delegation always maintain an open door policy, this gives all citizens the opportunity to meet and discuss City and State issues and initiatives in a combined forum.

For further information, contact Benjamin G. Blake, Mayor 203 783-3201.

State VFW Honors Milford Teacher

2012-01-25T15:05:00.001-05:00

Joan Mancini, who teaches kindergarten at Orange Avenue School, will represent the State of Connecticut at the National VFW competition in March. She will be honored at the State VFW Convention at the Rocky Hill Marriott in June.
"The news not only represents a well deserved honor for State Teacher of the Year Jon Mancini, but once again shows the commitment of the Milford school system to instilling the values of citizenship, and promoting America’s history, traditions, and institutions. We are very proud of Milford's teachers and students" -- Greg Smith, VFW District Commander for New Haven County.

"I am very proud that Joan Mancini has been named State VFW Grade K-5 Teacher of the Year. This is the second year in a row a teacher nominated by Devon Post 7788 has achieved the distinction of being named a VFW State Teacher of the Year. Last year Tom Acri from West Shore Middle School won that award in the Grades 6-8 category. Ms. Mancini instills in her students a love of country at a very early age and teaches her kindergartners patriotic songs, introduces veterans and servicemen to her class, and instructs the children about important holidays such as Flag Day and Veterans Day. She is a very dedicated teacher and patriot. We are so lucky to have teachers of her caliber in Milford." -- Post Commander Robert Paddock

"Ms. Mancini is so deserving of this award. She has taught in the Milford School System for over 35 years, and I am so happy her dedication to her students and her country is being recognized and celebrated. She was nominated by Carole Swift, the principal of Orange Avenue Elementary School, who explained how Ms. Mancini teaches her young students about our servicemen, our veterans, important figures in American history and important holidays, and how she weaves them into her classes by teaching patriotic songs and acting out plays. We are so proud of Ms. Mancini and wish her much success as she now competes against other teachers around the country for the title of National Teacher of the Year."-- Post Ladies Auxiliary President Nancy Paddock

Stratford Library to show Woody Allen's 'Midnight in Paris' as part of its movie series

2012-01-25T14:10:00.000-05:00

And it's free.

The Stratford Library’s “Friday Night Movies” series will continue with a screening of the 2011 Oscar nominated comedy, “Midnight in Paris" at 7 p.m. Feb. 10.

The film showing is free and open to the public, according to a statement.

"'Midnight in Paris' is director Woody Allen’s valentine to the European city and the great literary figures of the past. The comic fantasy finds a newly engaged Hollywood writer (Luke Wilson) in Paris with his fiancee (Rachel McAdams)," the statement said. "One late night he walks the Paris streets alone and suddenly is thrust back into time meeting such literary giants as Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald."

The film was recently nominated for four Academy Awards including “Best Director” and “Best Picture.”.

Movies in the series are shown uncut on widescreen in the Stratford Library Lovell Room, the statement said.

“Midnight in Paris” is rated PG-13 and runs 94 minutes. Complimentary snacks are served.

For more information, call the library at 203-385- 4162 or visit www.stratfordlibrary.org.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. (Nicely done. Tom)

Lauralton Hall’s Scholar-in-Residence Program to Host Darryl Mace, Ph.D., Noted Historian and Civil Rights Expert

2012-01-24T16:51:00.001-05:00

MILFORD--In celebration of Black History Month, Lauralton Hall is pleased to announce that Darryl Mace, Ph.D., will be a visiting lecturer as part of the school’s innovative and highly successful Scholar-in-Residence program.

On Thursday, February 9, and Friday, February 10, Dr. Mace, Assistant Professor of History and Political Science at Cabrini College, will provide college-level lectures to 11th and 12th grade history students. Dr. Mace will take the students on a journey through a watershed moment in the US Civil Rights Movement: the brutal murder of 14-year-old African American Emmett Till by white supremacists in 1955. He will examine how Till’s mother’s courageous decision to expose the savagery of his death during the boy’s funeral shocked the nation into action.

Dr. Mace believes in the importance of humanizing history and the Till tragedy is a powerful point of connection for young people who may no longer be aware of the extent of racial oppression in the last century. He says: “I love stories. Telling students stories helps them develop a love for history. If students can see the historical actors or even place themselves inside the narrative, they are more open, more anxious, and more able to learn.”

Dr. Mace did his undergraduate work at Pennsylvania State University and earned his doctorate at Temple University. He has presented at numerous conferences, including the American Historical Association Annual Meeting and the Annual James A. Barnes Conference. He also is a bibliographer for the Pennsylvania Historical Association
Members of Lauralton’s diversity-oriented student club, LH CARES (Lauralton Hall Community Always Respects Everyone), have prepared a thoughtful response to Dr. Mace’s visit in the form of a short video on diversity both at Lauralton and in the local community.

“We are very excited to have Dr. Mace as part of our Scholar-in-Residence program,” says Lauralton President Antoinette Iadarola, Ph.D. “Inviting distinguished scholars and artists to lecture, teach master classes and perform, adds depth to the curriculum. The Residency program aims to enrich the academic experience for Lauralton students as well as benefit the community at large.”

Dr. Mace’s engagement at Lauralton is made possible thanks in part to the generosity of a community grant from the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation.

About Lauralton Hall

Milford State Legislators Kim Rose and Richard Roy Honored

2012-01-24T16:47:00.001-05:00

State Representatives Richard Roy (D-Milford) and Kim Rose (D-Milford) received the 2012 Citizenship Award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7788 during a ceremony in Milford. The award is given for outstanding patriotism and citizenship; promoting the principles of Justice, Freedom and Democracy; and dedication to the American Spirit on which our nation was founded.
“This award honors me greatly,” said Rep. Roy. “A society is often judged on how they treat their veterans. Having been involved with the VFW Local 7788 has meant a great deal to me.”
“I have been a member of the Ladies Auxiliary Devon Post 7788 for over eight years and currently serve as Jr. VP,” Rose said. “It is one of the most rewarding experiences anyone can enjoy. It is a great honor to be recognized and I thank the VFW for thinking of me.”
“The VFW recognizes individuals in the community those who go above and beyond their position or responsibility for the citizens of that community,” said Robert Paddock, Director of Local 7788. “At Post 7788 we recognized these individuals who have met and continue to meet these standards for the citizens of Milford
For more information: vfw7788.org
Rep. Roy is in his 10th term serving the 119th House District in Milford.
Rep. Rose is in her 2nd term serving the 118th House District in Milford.

"Take Your Child to Library Day" is on February 4

2012-01-23T17:46:00.002-05:00

And there's magic in the air...

The Stratford Library will celebrate 'Take Your Child to the Library Day' on Feb. 4.

"The day encourages families to visit their local library and discover its many resources," according to a statement.

Special events have been planned throughout the day, the statement said.

Magician Ed Popielarczyk will present his 'Magical Moments' show at 2 p.m. for children ages 3 to 12.

At 3:30 p.m. .children ages 8 to 12 can participate in a workshop and learn magic tricks, the statement said.

Also, sign up to participate in the Library's 'Reading Challenge.'

Parents or caregivers are invited to stop by the Library to read with their children for 15 minutes and receive a snack and a goodie bag.

To register for events, call 203.385.4165 or visit: www.stratfordlibrary.org.

In the photo: Magician Ed Popielarczyk (center) will be the special guest performer for "Take Your Child to the Library Day."

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

"Our Town" to be shown as part of celebration of theater in Fairfield County

2012-01-20T18:50:00.000-05:00

The Fairfield Public Library will participate with the Fairfield Museum and History Center’s six-month exhibition entitled Bravo! A Century of Theatre in Fairfield County.

The Library will screen the film "Our Town," a PBS production, featuring actor/director Paul Newman in the Westport Country Playhouse production of Thornton Wilder’s classic play at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 1 in the Rotary Room of the Main Library, 1080 Old Post Road, according to a statement.

The movie will be shown on a 120” Hi-Definition projection system complete with surround sound and Blu-ray player, the statement said.

All programs at the Fairfield Public Library are open to the public and free of charge, the statement said. Registration is necessary. Register at www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org or call 203-256-3160 for more information.
Follow the activities of the Library on Twitter: www.twitter.com/fairfieldpublib and Facebook: www.facebook.com/fairfieldlibrary.

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

United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Milford flotilla safe boating class cancelled

2012-01-20T18:37:00.000-05:00

But there is still time to sign up for the March course
MILFORD — United States Coast Guard Auxiliary 24-3 “About Boating Safety” course scheduled for Saturday has been cancelled.
An official said the next class will be held March 3 at the Flotilla 24-3 Training Center, 1 Helwig St. Walk-ins are welcome.
Registration can be made in advance at http://a0142403.uscgaux.info.
The “About Boating Safety” instruction will cover all basic topics in the safe operation of recreational boating and seamanship, as well as safe personal watercraft operation. Successful completion of this eight-hour course satisfies the Connecticut licensing requirements for both boats and personal watercraft. Family participation is encouraged. Cost is $60.
For additional information about Coast Guard Auxiliary courses, please call 860-663-5505 or visit
http://a0142403.uscgaux.info.

Amity High School to hold discussion on 'realities and misconceptions' of drug use by students

2012-01-20T17:28:00.000-05:00

WOODBRIDGE - A panel discussion on drugs at Amity High School is scheduled to take place at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2, according to Amity High School Principal Charles Britton’s Friday Highlights email.
The Amity administration is holding the presentation, which also will include representatives from area agencies, legal experts and health professionals.
According to Britton’s message “the panel presentation will address the realities and misconceptions related to illegal drug use by students at Amity Regional High School.”
While the email did not note particular cases, in December one Amity student was arrested for heroin possession and five students were arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana with intent to sell.
In April, police used dogs to search lockers of all the 1,640 students and the schools parking lot, which led to one student’s arrest. No drugs were found in lockers.
Superintendent of Schools John Brady had said he requested the dog search because about 20 students last school year showed symptoms of being under the influence of prescription drugs while on school grounds.
The presentation follows parent conferences and the goal of the presentation is to present the facts related to drug problems in the community, the email said.

Sen. Slossberg Office Hours

2012-01-20T16:35:00.000-05:00

State Senator Gayle S. Slossberg (D-Milford) has scheduled ‘Office Hours’ for January 31st in Orange to meet with constituents there and hear directly from them about issues facing the state. The General Assembly’s 2012 Regular Session convenes February 8th and some topics to be addressed include off-year budget adjustments, economic development and job creation, and public education reform.

Tuesday evening, January 31, 2012, Senator Slossberg will be in the First Selectman’s office at Orange Town Hall to answer questions and to take suggestions from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Orange Town Hall is at 617 Orange Center Road in Orange.

“Throughout my tenure in the state Senate many of the best ideas we have considered at the Capitol have originated with suggestions from members of the community and this event will be another opportunity for that type of exchange,” Senator Slossberg said. “Residents of the district are always invited to contact me by mail, telephone, and e-mail, but there’s no substitute for these face-to-face meetings.”

Senator Slossberg will be joined for these ‘Office Hours’ by Orange First Selectman Jim Zeoli and State Representative Themis Klarides.

Senator Slossberg is presently serving her fourth term in the Connecticut State Senate. She is the Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Government Administration and Elections Committee, vice-Chair of its Public Health Committee, and vice-chair of its Select Committee on Veterans Affairs as well.

Topics of Interest

2012-01-18T12:54:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder if you have community activities occurring in Milford and Orange, and would like them publicized on this blog please email Brian McCready at bmccready@nhregister.com

Also if you have news tips involving Milford and Orange please also email me, and find me on Facebook and on Twitter @nhrbmccready

We do our best to keep you updated on all of the news. Please let us know how we can serve you better,

Brian McCready
Milford Bureau Chief
New Haven Register

Milford Begins Parent Leadership Traning Saturday

2012-01-18T12:49:00.002-05:00

On Saturday, January 21, 2012, Milford will kick-off its fourth Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI)class. The Parent Leadership Training Institute program was developed by the State of Connecticut’s Commission on Children to enable parents to become leading advocates for children. PLTI students participate in an 18-week comprehensive program designed to provide the civic and leadership skills needed to work in the community on behalf of children.
WHO:
Benjamin G. Blake, Mayor, City of Milford
A. Dennis McBride, MD, MPH, Health Director, City of Milford
Elizabeth E. Feser, EdD, Superintendent, Milford Public Schools
Paul Davis, State Representative
Kim Rose, State Representative
PLTI Facilitators
2012 PLTI participants
WHEN:
Saturday, January 21, 2012
8:15AM
WHERE:
First United Church of Christ, Congregational
34 W. Main Street
Milford, CT 06460

A group of twenty (20) parents have signed on to participate in Milford’s 4th Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) that will start on Saturday, January 21. The Parent Leadership Training Institute program was developed by the State of Connecticut’s Commission on Children to enable parents to become leading advocates for children. The cornerstones of the program are respect, validation, and a
belief that when the tools of democracy are understood, the public will actively engage in civic life.
The program comes to Milford as the result of a collaborative effort between the Milford Health Department, Milford Public Schools, the United Way of Milford, and Kids Count of Milford.
“We are proud of the way that various community organizations—public, private, and nonprofit—have come together with the goal of empowering and supporting parents and caregivers to improve the lives of children at home, in school, and in the community,” said A. Dennis McBride, MD, MPH, Health Director
of the City of Milford.
PLTI students participate in an 18-week comprehensive program designed to provide the civic and leadership skills needed to work in the community on behalf of children. Each student completes a community project that contributes to the well being of Milford’s children. The community project also gives students a hands-on opportunity to apply the skills learned in the program. The 18-week program
begins with an all-day retreat to be held this Saturday, January 21, 2012.
Several organizations have been involved with the Design Team for the program, including the Milford Health Department, Kids Count of Milford, United Way of Milford, First United Church of Christ, Congregational, Milford Discovery Initiative, and several early childhood education representatives.
For further information about PLTI in Milford, please contact Lesley Darling, PLTI Coordinator, at the Milford Health Department at 203-783-3314.

The annual 'Taste of Honey' is coming up soon at the JCC in Woodbridge

2012-01-16T19:20:00.001-05:00

Many classes will be held

WOODBRIDGE — The Center for Jewish Life and Learning will hold its annual Taste of Honey program Jan. 28 and 29 at the Jewish Community Center, 360 Amity Road.
Taste of Honey is designed to provide classes for almost every taste and interest. Offerings range from Rabbi Benjamin Scolnic’s session, “Is the Penn (State Brand) Mightier than the Truth? Judaism and Moral Responsibility”; a presentation by Yonatan Moss, a post-doctoral fellow at Yale, on “How an Iraqi Bishop Helped Invent Jewish Philosophy: The Newly Discovered Evidence of a Yale Manuscript.”; and Adam Segulah Sher, program director at the Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center in the Southern Berkshires, will lead a session with Sarah Chandler, associate director for the Adamah Fellowship, on the Jewish spiritual dimensions of eco-consciousness and how it improves other aspects of our lives.
On Jan. 28, Rabbis Alvin Wainhaus of Congregation Or Shalom and Michael Farbman of Temple Emanuel will lead a session celebrating the legacy and music of Debbie Friedman as well as lead the Havdalah service with Friedman’s melodies.
Cost is $18 per participant, or $10 for students and seniors.
Also, Richard Gans and a host of local musicians and local Hebrew school students will perform a free concert celebrating Friedman’s music at 10 a.m. Sunday.
For more information about the many interesting programs, visit www.jccnh.org or contact Rich Walter at 203-387-2522, ext. 300 or richw@jccnh.org.

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

A great pair? Books over coffee

2012-01-16T17:51:00.000-05:00

And you can find out why death will come to Pemberley

STRATFORD - The Stratford Library “Books Over Coffee” program will begin its 2012 series "with a discussion of P.D. James’ current bestseller, "Death Comes to Pemberley" at noon Jan. 25, according to a statement.

Stratford educator and author Kathleen Faggella is the host of Book Over Coffee, the statement said.

"Pemberley, Jane Austen fans will recall, is the large Derbyshire estate owned by Fitzwilliam Darcy, who weds Elizabeth Bennet at the end of 'Pride and Prejudice.' In Death Comes to Pemberley, P. D. James’s surprising new sequel to that novel, the estate becomes the scene of a murder. The story is set in 1803, six years after the marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy took place. They have two young sons now and the arrival of a third child is shortly to be announced. But their tranquility is interrupted one wet and windy evening when an unexpected carriage comes rocketing up the drive."

“Books Over Coffee” will be held in the Library’s Lovell Room and participants are invited to bring a bag lunch to the program and coffee and tea is also served, the statement said.

Limited reading copies of Death Comes to Pemberley are available for loan at the library’s Circulation Desk, the statement said. The new 2012 book discussion schedule is also at the library.

For more information call the library’s Public Relations and Programming Office at: 203- 385- 4162. Or visit www.stratfordlibrary.org.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. (Folks at the library wrote it, we edited it ever so slightly)

St. Vincent’s Healthy Hearts Club sponsoring trip to Mohegan Sun Casino

2012-01-16T13:58:00.000-05:00

The trip is open to the public

BRIDGEPORT — St. Vincent’s Healthy Hearts Club is sponsoring a trip to the Mohegan Sun Casino, which includes a ticket to the “From Mystic with Love” musical Feb. 13.
The trip is open to the general public.
Price is $55 per person, which includes the musical, $15 meal credit, a $20 surprise betting bonus, shopping and gaming, deluxe motor-coach transportation, all taxes and service charges and driver’s gratuity.
The motor-coach leaves at 8 a.m. from the rear of the new garage on (Main Street facing north) and returns at about 6:30 p.m.
Send checks payable to “Healthy Hearts” c/o Andy Gatto to 505 Hart Street, Bridgeport 06606. For reservations, call Andy Gatto at 203-372-5097.

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

Lauralton Students Share Art with the Community

2012-01-13T14:41:00.001-05:00

MILFORD--Lauralton Hall students were out in full force yesterday talking about their creative inspiration at the opening of an exhibit at Café Atlantique in Milford. The show is comprised of portrait, still-life, landscape, and abstract works created in state-of-the-art studios on campus. The show includes nineteen artworks in pencil, pen and ink, pastels, acrylic and digital design. Lauralton Art teacher Judith Doherty described the opportunity for students to share their work publically as “a learning experience”. “It’s a great opportunity for our young women to display their work in a public space like this.”
Café Atlantique owner Tina Roberts said she was thrilled to be able to display the student’s creations. “Displaying our community’s artistic talent is a way that I can give back to the community. We love having the students here and to display their art is an added plus.”
The exhibit runs until January 31. Café Atlantique is located at 33 River Street in Milford, CT and is open seven days a week.

Milford man named parade grand marshal of the Bridgeport 2012 Columbus Celebration

2012-01-12T19:41:00.000-05:00

A reception will be held to introduce him

BRIDGEPORT — Frank T. Gennarini of Milford will be introduced as the parade grand marshal of the 2012 Columbus Celebration by the Council of Italian-American Societies of Greater Bridgeport at a special reception Jan. 19 at the Bridgeport Holiday Inn, 1070 Main St., according to a statement.
At the reception from 6 to 8 p.m., Gennarini will “officially assume his parade grand marshal duties of the 104th Columbus Day Parade, making it the oldest running one in the state, the statement said.”
“A third-generation Italian-American, Gennarini has a long record of overseeing parades and volunteering in the community. He served as the Parade Grand Marshal twice in 2000 and 2007 for the Barnum Festival and taken part in a total of 15 parades. He has been involved with the Barnum Festival since 1995, and was named the Festival Volunteer of the Year in 1999. He also was twice elected President (2004 & ‘05) of the Festival.”
“This is a great honor,” Gennarini said in the statement. “I have a great deal of experience putting on parades and enjoy it. This one has a lot of sentimental meaning since I grew up in Bridgeport and many of my relatives still live near the actual parade route. This parade celebrates the spirit of the Italian-American culture that is so strong in this area.”
Gennarini, vice president of Real Estate for D’Addario Industries and private real estate investor, “plans to build on the tradition of the Columbus Day Parade and continue to improve it. He foresees reaching out to new organizations and businesses to join in the Columbus Day celebration as sponsors,” the statement said.
“For the 25th consecutive year, the popular Marine Band Concert will take place on two consecutive nights prior to the parade at the Klein Memorial Auditorium as part of the Columbus Day Celebrations.”
The staging area of the parade route, which starts at Jewett Ave in the North End and runs down Wayne Street to Madison Avenue, finishing at Central High School, proceeds along former farmland that was owned by Gennarini’s great-grandfather in the early 1930’s, the statement said. Gennarini also grew up in the area where the parade will pass, the statement said.
“Gennarini also acted in The Playhouse on the Green production of “Barnum, The Musical.” He is a graduate of Trumbull High School and Sacred Heart University and has been a volunteer at the Kennedy Center of Bridgeport and the Sterling House of Stratford. He is an active member of Toastmasters International and BACIO, the Bridgeport Area Cultural Italian Organization.”
“The Council of Italian-American Societies of Greater Bridgeport will sponsor the parade and all the Columbus Day festivities for the 33rd consecutive year. The CIASGB was formed in 1978 to operate exclusively for charitable, literary and education purposes in recognizing the contribution of Italian-Americans to this country. In 1979, CIASGB became the official sponsor of the Columbus Day Parade and the Columbus Day Celebration,” the statement said.

Editor's note: All information and the photo in this post was contributed. (Nice job organizers!)

Jewish Community Center Fitness Center holding 8th 'Largest Loser' competition

2012-01-12T14:51:00.000-05:00

The 'casting call is next month

WOODBRIDGE — The Jewish Community Center Fitness Center, 360 Amity Road, is holding its eighth "Largest Loser" competition March 4 to May 13.
All interested participants are required to attend a casting call for the spring 2012 program Feb. 12-14.
The JCC’s program differs from other variations in its focus on an entire lifestyle change. Participants work with personal trainers as well as a registered dietician and fat loss coach. The program includes educational lectures on various aspects of wellness.
Participants are divided into three teams of 10, each with a support team of personal trainers and instructors. Teams meet with their trainers three days per week for workout sessions, which include all areas of the JCC Fitness Department and involve a variety of activities. Fitness focused competitions take place throughout the contest against other teams. Weekly weigh-ins determine individual, as well as team, weight loss. Prizes are awarded in several categories for men and women.
For more about the Largest Loser, contact Susan Donovan at 203-387-2522, ext. 265 or visit www.jccnh.org.

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

'Women and Heart Disease' program to be held Feb. 2

2012-01-12T14:33:00.000-05:00

Reservations are required.

DERBY — In conjunction with National Heart Month, the Women and Heart Disease Committee will hold its seventh annual Women and Heart Disease program Feb. 2 at Grassy Hill Lodge.
Reservations for the event, which is open to the public, can be made by calling 203-732-7584 or 203-732-1137. The cost is $35.
Event registration and a silent auction will start at 5 p.m., followed promptly at 6 by dinner and the program, which features guest speaker Samantha Heller, nutrition coordinator at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital.
Highlighting the evening is the presentation of the Annual “Caring Heart” Awards. This year’s recipients will be the Lower Naugatuck Valley Boys and Girls Club and Father Leonard Kvedas, pastor of St. Michael’s Parish in Beacon Falls.
For more information on the event, call 203-732-7584 or 203-732-1137.

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

One Voice One Gift: A Cabaret to Benefit the United Way of Milford

2012-01-11T14:23:00.000-05:00

Where:
Lauralton Hall
200 High Street
Milford, CT 06460

When:
Saturday January 21, 2012 from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM EST

Broadway comes to Milford on Sat. Jan. 21, 2012! Join us for a night of entertainment as our own Kristin Huffman and her talented Broadway Babes showcase the work of the United Way in song. Kristin and her Babes have performed in such Broadway musicals as Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins, Chicago, Les Mis, Jekyll and Hyde and more. Doors open at 6:30; Cabaret begins at 7. Tickets are $35 and include hors d'oeuvres and entertainment; cash bar available. For more information call the United Way of Miford at (203) 874-6791 or
click below to reserve your ticket or table of 10.

MLK Ceremony this Sunday in Milford

2012-01-11T13:03:00.000-05:00

King’s Alma Mater Alumnus to Speak at Milford Observance
MILFORD--The annual observance of REFLECTIONS: A TRIBUTE TO THE REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. will be held Sunday, January 15 at 4:00 p.m. in Milford City Hall auditorium. This is the 26th year that the Milford Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, a women’s service organization, has sponsored the event, but the first since the dedication of Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The Stone of Hope Statue of Dr. King is the first on the National Mall devoted, not to a United States President or war hero, but a citizen activist for civil rights, peace and justice for all mankind. The figure of Dr. King was sculpted by renowned artist Master Lei Yixin, who captured him in a moment of reflective thought.
The Milford Chapter, one of 6 in the state, was chartered May 17, 1986 and has continued to impact the Greater Milford Community in their programmatic endeavors. The chapter has sponsored annual Walk For Health and Hunger Walk-A-Thons to benefit Beth El Shelter and the Clothes Closet in Milford. The chapter is also a supporter of the Robert McInnis Hospice Suite at Milford Hospital. The chapter’s present program initiative is PROJECT L.I.N.K.S. (Little Individuals Need Kinder Services). The chapter was the recipient of the Eastern Area’s 1st place award in Umbrella Programming and second place for their initiatives in international programming.
The annual address will be delivered by the Reverend Brian O. Bellamy, a graduate of King’s alma mater, Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA and Yale University Divinity School. He pastors the Friendship Baptist Church in Hamden and is also a Faculty Associate at the University of New Haven in the Department of Global Studies. Other program participants will include Foran High School Chorus under the direction of Ms. Theresa Voss; The Celentano Museum Academy Chorus in New Haven under the direction of David Minnella; US Senator Richard Blumenthal, US Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro; State Senator Gayle Slossberg, and State Representative Richard Roy. Milford’s new mayor, Benjamin G. Blake will present a proclamation on behalf of the City of Milford.
A reception will immediately follow the program in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church at 28 North Street. The program is open and free to the public.

Milford Adult Education registration taking plance now

2012-01-10T12:42:00.001-05:00

Milford Adult Education is now taking registration for Spring/Summer evening classes. Registration can be done in person at the Adult Education office at 70 West River Street in Milford from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by mail addressed to Milford Adult Education, 70 West River St., Milford, 06460. An evening registration will be held on Monday, Jan. 23, snow date Tuesday, Jan. 24. If you have not received an Adult Education course brochure, you can access it on our website: milforded.org. Click on Programs and Services and choose Adult Education from the dropdown list. Registration deadline is Jan. 27.

It's time for an event that could only be known as the Pequot Library's Mid-winter Book Sale

2012-01-09T19:50:00.003-05:00

All proceeds benefit the Pequot Library

From Jan. 14 through Jan. 17, the Pequot Library will hold its annual Mid-Winter Book Sale.

"The little sister of the Library's nationally known Summer Book Sale, the Mid-Winter sale is smaller but more intimate with many treasures and bargains to be had," organizers said in a statement.

There is no admission charge for the sale, the statement said.

"The primary focus of the Mid-Winter sale is fiction and the Library's auditorium, where the Mid-Winter sale is held, will be full of a broad array of works of fiction in all genres in both hardcover and paper back," the statement said. "There will also a good selection of children's books and videos, and vintage paper backs."

further, "There are so many books sorted and priced this year, that the Library will begin to "restock" the tables during the sale," the statement said "Patrons looking for just the right book are encouraged to return each day to see what new books have been brought up out of storage."

These will also be a large selection of prints, thanks to the work of book sale volunteer Stephanie Weaver, the statement said. The prints, which are donated to the Library during the course of the year, are "colorful, interesting, and often humorous," the statement said.

"Paige Gillies, the book sale volunteer in charge of LP records, has actively been pursuing donations of these items to the Library, and there will be a large selection at the Mid-Winter Sale in mint condition and sorted into the following categories: Jazz, Rock, Folk and Country, Latin, and the Spoken Word. The LP is enjoying a surge in popularity recently and has become very collectible."

Mark Naftalin and Friends will perform both Saturday and Sunday starting at 1 p.m., the statement said

Members of the group are: Mark Naftalin - piano; Chance Browne - guitar, harmonica & vocal; Paul Gabriel - guitar & vocals; Daniel J - guitar, harmonica and vocals; Steve Russell - guitar, harmonica & vocals; Washboard Slim - washboard, harmonica & vocals; Gerry Manning - clarinet, harmonica & vocals; and Paul Bluestein - guitar & vocals.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. (Because folks at the library know a lot about words, we're sharing what they have to say!)

Fairfield Child Is Honored and Remembered For His Fight Against Cancer

2012-01-09T18:09:00.002-05:00

With dreams of becoming a scientist who would cure cancer, and mosquito bites, Teddy was a smart, funny, kind and sometimes stubborn boy. He liked soccer, basketball and hanging out with his friends. He also enjoyed reading "Goosebumps" books and his favorite TV shows were "Sponge Bob" and "The Simpsons."
In November 2009, Teddy's life changed forever when he was diagnosed with an undifferentiated sarcoma, a large malignant soft-tissue tumor that was located in his chest. He endured seven rounds of chemotherapy, two life-threatening operations and seven weeks of radiation to get rid of his tumors, but even then, new tumors were discovered in his chest less than a month after he finished treatment. Despite the exhaustive efforts of his oncologists, Teddy passed away on August 16, 2010, at the age of 9. Teddy's courage and determination were an inspiration to his family and those around him during his cancer battle. His memory continues to remind us of the need for research so no child will have to suffer as Teddy did or have their promising futures stolen.
Recently, Teddy was honored by the St. Baldrick's Foundation as one of the five 2012 Ambassador Kids. The St. Baldrick's Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising money to fund the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and give survivors long and healthy lives. The five Ambassador Kids serve as the faces of the St. Baldrick's Foundation throughout the year and share its mission to Conquer Kids' Cancer! The kids are a reminder that cancer affects more than 160,000 children worldwide each year and in the U.S. one in five kids diagnosed will not survive.

Check out his Honored Kid Page on the website.
Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. It is unedited here and posted as a tribute and a public service.

Game dinner to be held in Derby to help in fight against Cystic Fibrosis

2012-01-09T17:55:00.000-05:00

The 11th annual game dinner for Colby McMahon and the fight against Cystic Fibrosis will be held Feb. 3
at A M Club on Hawthorne Avenue in Derby.
The donation is $35 and participants must purchase tickets in advance.
For more information, call Elaine Marcucio at 203887-5047 or email elainemarcucio@yahoo.com.

Shown in contributed photo: Colby McMahon

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

Lifeline Program coordinator at Hospital of Saint Raphael will be special guest speaker at Milford event

2012-01-09T17:40:00.000-05:00

The event is open to the public
MILFORD - Jennifer Cotter, Lifeline Program coordinator at New Haven’s Hospital of Saint Raphael will be the special guest speaker when Saint Ann Parish opens its new season of Wellness presentations at 2 p.m. Jan. 29 in the church.

Cotter "will give background on Philips Lifeline Medical Alert Service, explain how it works and the various options available," according to a statement.

The hospital has offered the 24/7 service to the surrounding community for more than 25 years, the statement said.

Cotter, "who began her career at the hospital in 1989, has been the Lifeline coordinator since 2002," the statement said.

"She finds her work 'very rewarding' and enjoys 'helping the elderly stay independent and in the homes they love,'" the statement said.

Statistics indicate that more than 13 million people ages 65 and older will experience a fall or some other medical emergency in their homes this year. When time is of the essence a medical alert service can be invaluable, the statement said.

The public is invited to attend this event. For more information call 203-874-0634.

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

Neighbor-to-Neighbor LifeLine Grant Applications Now Available

2012-01-07T09:14:00.001-05:00

The grants are available for residents of many area towns

NEW HAVEN -- United Way of Greater New Haven and the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven will begin their 4^th year of Neighbor-to-Neighbor LifeLine, a partnership to help meet emergency housing and hunger needs in the Greater New Haven and Shoreline regions. The campaign, which began in 2009, has provided nearly $2 million to help individuals and families avert or pull-out of crises caused by the economic downturn.

This year, N2N will make grants to nonprofit organizations, government institutions and/or faith-based organizations to help them meet the emergency food or housing needs of residents of the region.
Grant applications are now being accepted by Greater New Haven organizations that provide emergency food or emergency housing services to residents of New Haven, Bethany, Cheshire, East Haven, Hamden, Milford, North Haven, Orange, Wallingford, West Haven, and Woodbridge. Applications for Greater New Haven are due February 8th at 12:00 noon and must be submitted online.

A separate Shoreline application will be available on January 18^th for organizations that provide emergency food, housing, and relief fund services to residents of: Branford, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, North Branford, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook. Organizations may submit multiple applications to either process, or apply to both application processes. Visit www.n2nlifeline.org/application for more information.

Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed. (Yes, United Way wrote every word) It is unedited here.

Milford Police Promotions

2012-01-04T12:55:00.001-05:00

For Immediate Release

Date: January 4, 2012

Contact: Lieutenant Vaughan Dumas

The Milford Police Department will be conducting a promotional ceremony for five members of the department on January 5, 2012 5:00 pm at Milford City Hall, 110 River Street. The ceremony is open to the public and members of the Milford community are free to join us during this historic event and recognize the achievements of these individuals.

Below is a list of the personnel, their newly achieved rank and a brief bio of each individual;

Captain Tracy L. Mooney will be appointed to the rank of Deputy Chief and will assume second in command overseeing operational functions within the department. Tracy Mooney joined the Milford Police Department in 1994 and is a seventeen year veteran of the department In 1997 she was chosen to represent the department as both an undercover and investigative officer at the South Central Office of the Statewide Narcotics Task Force, where she received two (2) Unit Citations. She returned to the Patrol Division in 2000 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2002, to Lieutenant in 2004 and to her current position as Administrative Captain in 2007.

Her responsibilities included heading the Internal Affairs Unit, acting as the Freedom of Information Officer, overseeing the Records and Traffic Divisions, coordinating the hiring of employees, as well as participating in and supervising the Recruitment Team. Deputy Chief Mooney was the Project Manager for the recent procurement and implementation of the department’s computer system.

Deputy Chief Mooney served on the Departments’ Bike Unit, Tactical Unit, and Honor Guard. She is a P.O.S.T Certified Municipal Academy Instructor in Search and Seizure, Laws of Evidence, Constitutional Law and Career Development. She instructs in the Milford Police Academy, and other regional academies.

Deputy Chief Mooney received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, from Keene State College and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of New Haven. She is currently pursuing additional graduate studies in the National Security Program at the University of New Haven. She has attended the FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association’s (LEEDA) Command Institute and most recently graduated from the 246th Session of the FBI National Academy.

She has been awarded a Commendation and two Unit Citations fom this department, as well as additional Unit Citations from the Connecticut State Police.

Deputy Chief Mooney is a past recipient of the Milford Rotary’s 2007 and 2009 Daniel S. Wasson Scholarship and the 2007 Connecticut Police Chiefs Association William Kirkby Scholarship.

Captain Gerald Butler will be promoted to the rank of Deputy Chief and will assume third in command overseeing administrative functions within the department. Gerald Butler is a 26-year veteran of the Milford Police Department and is currently assigned as Captain of the Detective Division.

Gerald Butler entered the Milford Police Academy in 1984. Became a probationary Officer in March 1985 and was assigned to the Patrol Division. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1996 and promoted to Lieutenant in 1998 where he was assigned to the Patrol Division as a Shift Commander. He was transferred to the Administrative Division in 2001, following his promotion to Captain in 2004 he served as the Administrative Captain and in 2007 he was transferred to the Detective Division, where he served as the Division Commander.

Deputy Chief Butler has been a member of the Police Department’s Marine/SCUBA team since 1986 and is the Unit’s Commanding Officer.

Deputy Chief Butler graduated from Amity H.S. in 1981 and attended Southern Connecticut State College and Housatonic Community College graduating with a Major in Business and received his Associates Degree. In 2007 Deputy Chief Butler attended and graduated from the F.B.I. National Academy’s 230th Session in Quantico, VA. Deputy Chief Butler received his Bachelor’s Degree in the spring of 2008 from Charter Oak State College and in 2011 he graduated from Albertus Magnus College with a Master’s Degree in Leadership with honors.

Deputy Chief Butler has received the Department’s Meritorious Service Medal, 3 Commendations, the 20-year service award, the Red Cross lifesaving award and several letters of recognition. Deputy Chief Butler and his wife Barbara are residents of Milford and have 2 children, Jerry and Alexandra.

Lieutenant John Alexopoulos will be promoted to the rank of Captain and will be assigned to the Detective Division as a Division Commander. Captain John Alexopoulos graduated from the Milford Police Academy in 1984 as a Probationary Officer and was appointed as a Regular Officer, assigned to the Patrol Division, one year later. Captain John Alexopoulos is a 28-year member of the Milford Police Department.

Captain Alexopoulos served as a member of the Marine/SCUBA Team, the K-9 Unit, he is a P.O.S.T.C. Certified Municipal Police Instructor and a Firearms Instructor and Armorer. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1993 and was assigned to the Patrol Division. He was transferred to the Detective Division in 2003 and was assigned to general investigations. Captain Alexopoulos served as the department’s Intelligence liaison Officer to state and federal agencies exchanging information for terrorism, criminal and homeland security issues. In 2009 Captain Alexopoulos was promoted to Lieutenant and was assigned to the Patrol Division. Captain Alexopoulos was selected to participate in the development and implementation of the department’s computer system and is as a system administrator.

Captain Alexopoulos received three Commendations and two Letters of Recognition from the Milford Police Department. He also received the1988 Chamber of commerce “Young Officer of the Year” award and was awarded the Courage of Connecticut Award.

Captain Alexopoulos is the recipient of the Milford Rotary’s 2011 Daniel S. Wasson Scholarship and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Safety Administration through Charter Oak State College.

Captain Alexopoulos currently resides in Milford with his wife, Debbie, and two daughters, Christina and Nicole.

Sergeant William Cable will be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and will be assigned to the Patrol Division as a Patrol Shift Commander. Lieutenant Cable is a 17 year veteran of the Milford Police Department and is currently assigned to the Patrol division as a Patrol Sergeant.

Lieutenant Cable Graduated the Milford Police Academy in November 1994, and became a part time Officer. He was hired as a full time - probationary Officer on Jan 6, 1995 and was assigned to the Patrol Division. He served on the S.W.A.T. Team from 1998 to 2010. In September of 1999 he entered the Connecticut State Police Canine Academy with his partner Canine Bogey. They graduated the 89th Canine Training Troop on December 17, 1999. Lieutenant Cable and canine Bogey worked together until June 2007 when he was promoted to Sergeant and Bogey retired. As a team they made numerous criminal apprehensions and were responsible for locating several missing/endangered persons. Lieutenant Cable and canine Bogey went with the S.W.A.T. team to New York City serving the city for five days immediately following the terrorist attack on Sept 11, 2001. As a Sergeant in the patrol division, he served as a supervisor of the Canine Unit.

Lieutenant Cable graduated from Frank Scott Bunnell High School in 1988. He attended Western Connecticut State University and graduated in 1993 with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Justice and Law Administration in.

Officer Evan Beauvais will be promoted to the rank of Sergeant and will be assigned to the Patrol Division as a Shift Supervisor. Evan Beauvais is a 10 year veteran of the Milford Police Dept and is currently assigned to the Tactical Squad of the Detective Division.

Sergeant Beauvais graduated from the Milford Police Academy in May of 2001 and was assigned to the Patrol Division. In June of 2004 he was assigned to the Tactical Squad. He returned to the Patrol Division in October of 2004 and served as a Field Training Officer from 2005 to the present. In September of 2011 Evan once again was assigned to the Tactical Squad of the Detective Division.

Evan has received three Unit Citations, one Commendation and one Medal of Merritt from the Milford Police Dept.

Mayor Blake Announces Christmas Tree Pickup Schedule

2012-01-04T12:52:00.000-05:00

Recycling of Christmas Trees is Encouraged

Milford, CT, January 3, 2012: The Milford Public Works Department will pick up Christmas trees again this year. However, Mayor Benjamin G. Blake is encouraging residents to recycle their trees. Anyone wishing to recycle trees can bring them to the Walnut Beach and/or the Tri-Beach Parking Lots on Saturday, January 14, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Department of Public Works will be there to chip the trees.

For those residents who choose not to recycle their trees, the Public Works Department will pick up Christmas trees along with regular garbage pickups throughout the month of January. Trees must be cut into lengths no longer than four feet or they will not be picked up.

Jonathan Roper remembered recently at the Stratford Library

2011-12-28T18:43:00.002-05:00

Books in his name were donated to the library

The late Jonathan Roper, a Stratford resident and former member of the Stratford Library Board of Trustees, was remembered recently with a donation in his name to the Library.

Roper's widow, Elaine, donated two books of poetry by renowned author Nikki Giovanni.

The books, "Quilting the Black-Eyed Pea" and "The Collected Poetry of Nikki Giovanni," have been added to the Young Adult Non-Fiction circulating collection in memory of Jonathan Roper.

Pictured: (l-r) Elaine Roper with Teen Department Head Lucretia Duwel.

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

Jonathan Law Parent Post Prom Committee sets date for event

2011-12-28T13:06:00.000-05:00

And you can help to make sure the party is a success

The Jonathan Law Parent Post Prom Committee will again sponsor the Post Prom party in 2012.

The event will take place from 11:30 p.m. May 12 to 4:00 a.m. the next day, according to a statement.

The event "provides students and their guests a safe and fun environment following the Junior Prom. All Jonathan Law juniors may attend even if they are not going to the Prom," the statement said.

"As in past years, the Post Prom party would not be possible without the support and generosity of parents, private supporters and businesses who understand that events such as this are important to our community," the statement said. "Contributions of cash, goods, services and gift certificates have allowed the Post Prom Committee to provide an unforgettable evening for our teens."

Those who have contributed in the past are thanked for the support and are asked again to consider making a tax-deductible donation of cash, gift certificates or prize items "to help make this evening a success," the statement said.

Checks should be made payable to: Jonathan Law High School, memo to Post Prom Committee, the statement said.

For questions concerning prize donations that cannot be mailed, please contact Carol Cruz, Committee Chair 203-507-4223 c23cruz@gmail.com or Nancy McNary, Committee Treasurer nmcnary@wiggin.com

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

One Voice One Gift: A Cabaret to Benefit the United Way of Milford

2011-12-20T14:36:00.000-05:00

Where:
Lauralton Hall
200 High Street
Milford, CT 06460

Driving Directions

When:
Saturday January 21, 2012 from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM EST
Add to my calendar

Kristin Huffman

Broadway comes to Milford on Sat. Jan. 21, 2012! Join us for a night of entertainment as our own Kristin Huffman and her talented Broadway Babes showcase the work of the United Way in song. Kristin and her Babes have performed in such Broadway musicals as Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins, Chicago, Les Mis, Jekyll and Hyde and more. Doors open at 6:30; Cabaret begins at 7. Tickets are $35 and include hors d'oeuvres and entertainment; cash bar available. For more information call the United Way of Miford at (203) 874-6791 or
click below to reserve your ticket or table of 10.
Get more information
Register Now!
I can't make it
Hope to see you on Jan. 21!
Sincerely,

Gary Johnson
United Way of Milford
203-874-6791

Milford students send 3,068 letters to servicemen/women overseas for holidays

2011-12-20T13:17:00.000-05:00

MILFORD –When advisory program coordinator Shannan Carlson learned that VFW Post #7788 was conducting a letter-writing campaign for servicemen/women overseas, she believed the project could easily be brought forth to the middle and high schools as an activity for the advisory period in December. One of the goals of the new Advisory program (underway since September for all Milford students in Grades 6-12), is to foster meaningful connections between students and responsible adults in the community. The program also urges students to ‘look beyond themselves’ in all things.

That said, when Carlson heard of the VFW’s project, she believed it was a perfect fit with the advisory program. Jonathan Law Asst. Principal Robert Swan also embraced the idea and, together with Carlson, quickly put together a lesson place for the activity. The plan was presented and discussed with faculty members and administrators and, during the first few weeks of December, every middle school and high school student in Milford wrote a letter to someone overseas serving our country.

Every student received an outline to help prepare them for the type of letter to write, along with some suggested topics to use. Students were encouraged to write to a soldier they may already know who is serving overseas, but if students didn’t have anyone specific with whom to correspond – they could simply write a letter to any soldier as a message of thanks.

On Friday, December 16, a total of 3,068 letters were presented to VFW #7788 Post Commander Robert Paddock and VFW #7788 Ladies Auxiliary President Nancy Paddock. ‘Hugs From Home’ founder and chairperson Alicia Haley was also on hand to accept the mounds of correspondence from the students. The trio brought the letters back to the VFW Post in order to prepare them for delivery in time for the holidays to the troops.

“This was a great exercise – for everyone involved,” commented Bob Swan. “We believe our students benefitted from thinking about fellow Americans serving our country far from home. We believe our local VFW post benefitted from partnering with the school district on this wonderful project. And, the best part, we believe our troops will benefit from knowing there are thousands of us here who appreciate their efforts overseas. It truly was a ‘win-win’!”

Milford Preservation Trust to hold annual New Year’s Eve Luminary Lighting

2011-12-19T19:53:00.000-05:00

The event is free and open to the public

MILFORD — The Milford Preservation Trust will hold its fourth annual New Year’s Eve Luminary Lighting event at 4 p.m. Dec. 31 in honor of 200 sick Revolutionary War soldiers who were put ashore in Milford Harbor on Jan. 1, 1777.
Candles will be lit at three locations this year beginning at Gulf Beach, then proceeding to Milford Cemetery and lastly to the John Downs “A Connecticut Minuteman’s” House on North Street.
Participants will include City Historian Richard Platt, who will share a share a vivid historical account of the evening, the Milford Fife & Drum, members of the Lebanon Towne Militia and participants clothed in period garb.
The event is free and the public is welcome to attend and participate, in period costume if desired.
For more information, call Regina Cahill at 203-877-7620.

Look what the Amity Teen Center is up to! And you can help keep kids warm too...

2011-12-16T17:59:00.000-05:00

To help, donate to 2011 Coats for Kids

Connecticut Audubon Society Names New Communications Director

2011-12-16T13:34:00.001-05:00

He is an author and resident of New York State

The Connecticut Audubon Society has named conservationist and author Tom Andersen as its director of communications and community outreach.

Andersen will oversee all of Connecticut Audubon's communications with members, the general public, and the press, and will also coordinate the organization's public policy and advocacy work.

Founded in 1898, Connecticut Audubon Society is an independent conservation and environmental education organization, with headquarters in Fairfield. Connecticut Audubon operates five centers -- Pomfret, Glastonbury, Milford, Fairfield and Birdcraft Museum -- and owns 19 sanctuaries covering 2,600 acres.

Connecticut Audubon's education program has worked with more than 70 percent of the state's school districts, and its conservation scientists write and carry out conservation management plans for landowners throughout the state.

"We're poised to grow and to play a bigger role in conservation issues in Connecticut," said CAS President Robert Martinez. "Tom Andersen's knowledge and experience in the not-for-profit world and in conservation will help us focus our message and our work, reach more people, and be even more effective in protecting Connecticut's critical natural habitats."

Andersen will oversee Connecticut Audubon's website and direct communications with members and the general public, social media, and press relations. He will lead a team of Connecticut Audubon staff and board members in identifying, and then formulating positions on, the public policy issues that make up the core of Connecticut Audubon's advocacy work.

He is the author of This Fine Piece of Water: An Environmental History of Long Island Sound, published by Yale University Press. Andersen spent 10 years at Westchester Land Trust, in Bedford Hills, N.Y., as director of communications and special projects and as acting executive director. He helped Westchester Land Trust protect an average of more than 600 acres a year from 2000 through 2010, a decade during which the total amount of land the organization protected rose from 900 acres to more than 7,000 acres.

Previously he worked as a newspaper reporter in Westchester County, mainly writing about environmental issues. A former 15-year New Canaan, Ct., resident, he now lives in Pound Ridge, N.Y.

He can be reached at tandersen@ctaudubon.org, 914 409-6470 or 203-259-6305, ext. 103.

For more information about Connecticut Audubon Society, visit www.CtAudubon.org.

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

The Milford Recreation Department is offering open gym basketball for residents

2011-12-16T13:21:00.000-05:00

MILFORD — The Recreation Department, 70 W. River St., will run Open Gym Basketball for residents ages 18 to 24 from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 20-Jan. 19.
All participants must register in advance, in person at the Recreation Department. Participants will be required to complete a registration form and show a valid photo ID proving residency and age.
No age waivers will be considered. The one time registration fee is $10 and payable by cash only.
This open gym basketball activity is open to both men and women who meet the eligibility requirements. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis or until program maximums are met.
Lockers and showers are available.
For more information, contact Patrick Austin at the Milford Recreation Department at 783-3390 or paustin@ci.milford.ct.us.
Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.

Thinking you might need a post-holidays work out? This could be the class for you

2011-12-14T13:43:00.000-05:00

MILFORD — The Parks and Recreation Department is offering an aqua zumba class 7:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays Jan. 9-March 12 in the 34 Park Circle McCann Pool.
No swimming skills are required.
Bring bottled water and water shoes to class.
Preregistration is required.
Call 203-783-3281 or email recdeck@ci.milford.ct.us to register and for more information.

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

Need a computer class? This is even for those with no experience

2011-12-13T22:23:00.000-05:00

Classes are offered on different days each week
STRATFORD — The Baldwin Senior Center, 1000 W. Broad St., is offering computer classes.
The courses will run for five weeks, an hour per week, and are taught by Vinny Faggella, a professor at Sacred Heart University. They concentrate on a single computer topic so the student can gain proficiency. Tuition is $35.
The following classes are offered:
‰Introduction to Computers (for those with no computer experience), 9 a.m. Thursdays Jan. 19-Feb. 16.
‰Introduction to Computers (for those with limited computer experience), 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, Jan. 19-Feb. 16.
‰Laptop Workshop (please bring your own laptop), 10:30 a.m. Fridays, Jan. 20-Feb. 17.
Class is on first come/first served basis. Stop at the Front Desk for the registration form; payment is required when signing up.
Editor's note: All information in this post was contributed.