This summer, Written Words Bookstore will be hosting a walking book discussion group Saturday mornings at 8:30. The first session is July 11.

After reading pre-selected short fiction works, the group will meet at Veteran’s Memorial Park. Discussion will take place while members walk along the scenic Riverwalk. Approximate walk time is half an hour.

“We love being downtown and the Riverwalk is practically right outside our door,” said Dorothy Sim-Broder, Written Words Bookstore owner. “What a great way to take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting while exercising your brains cells.”

Discussion is free and open to the public. Books to be discussed will typically be on sale at Written Words at a discount.

Written Words Bookstore is located inside the Conti building at 415 Howe Avenue. For information, call 203-944-0400 or visit writtenwordsbookstore.com.

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Shelton native Christian Iannucci launches his business Doorbell Barbers, LLC in Fairfield County officially on Wednesday, July 8.

This business will cater to busy parents with young boys, business professionals and seniors, with the uniqueness of booking men’s haircuts on call,.

Doorbell Barbers offers men’s haircuts, straight razor shaves and men’s hair removal services.

Christian Iannucci giving a haircut to a client (Photo credit Mike Donnarummo Photography)

“We want to bring a personalized haircut experience to customers who have a preference for convenience, accessibility and quality service,” Iannucci explains. Inspired in part by Uber.

Doorbell Barbers offers customers the ability to book a haircut from their mobile device. From their smartphone, computer or tablet, they can select a haircut style, upload a picture, choose a music playlist or beverage to accompany their service and pay directly through the site.

Prices range from $40-60 dollars and Doorbell Barbers will travel from New Haven to Greenwich.

How it all got started

Christian graduated from Shelton High School in 2004 and is a licensed cosmetologist. He began to develop the concept for his business during a year long cosmetology licensing program in Connecticut where he found a number of his customers inquiring about in-home service.

The business grew from providing haircuts to friends and family to now serving assisted living facilities, weddings groomsmen and referral clients.

To find out more information on the company website www.doorbellbarbers.com.

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Saydee, an EnCon K-9 unit Labrador retriever, with two striped bass under the state’s minimum length that she detected during an environmental conservation police action on the Housatonic River.

A canine with special training in detecting fish recently demonstrated the value of its new skills on the Housatonic River, leading to charges for fishing violations against two men who were out on the river in Milford.

A Labrador retriever named Saydee that just completed training in the detection of illegally caught fish was used by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) environmental conservation (EnCon) police to find two striped bass the men allegedly had caught that did not meet minimum length requirements.

EnCon officers saw the two seen fishing on the Housatonic River, and stopped to conduct a fishing compliance check. The men said they had not caught any fish, but the officers dispatched Saydee to search the shoreline and the dog indicated a “find” on a black trash bag tucked in a rocky embankment, according to a DEEP press release.

An inspection of the bag revealed two striped bass that measured only 15 inches and 19 inches in length, the DEEP said. State regulations limit the possession of striped bass to one fish per angler at a minimum length of 28 inches in an effort to protect the resource.

One of the men was issued a misdemeanor summons for possession of short striped bass and was also cited for fishing without a license, and the other was issued an infraction for fishing without a license.

Saydee is one of three canines from the EnCon K-9 unit that received special training in fish detection to assist in the detection of fishing violations.

The canines have been trained to detect certain species of sport fish that are commonly caught in Connecticut, such as trout and striped bass. They have been taught how to search vessels, under rocks, along shorelines, and other places illegally taken fish could be hidden.

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Seven Shelton High School seniors were presented with awards by The Weller Foundation, Incorporated at its Annual Awards Banquet on April 29, 2015  at Fairfield University. The Weller Foundation, Incorporation is a non-profit organization that was established in 1962 to provide financial assistance to educational, charitable, and civic organizations.

(pictured from left to right) Lou LaCroce, Kathy Riddle, Eunsun Hong, Michael Cowell, Veina Pillai, Dakota McDonough, Amanda Davies, Nicole Romeos, Michael Lynders, Dr. Beth Smith

Dr. Joseph V. Erardi Jr., Superintendent of Newtown Schools, gave a speech to the audience of scholarship/award recipients, parents, and high school administrators.

The recipient of the $14,000 Barton L. Weller Scholarship, Michael Lynders, is the son of Michael and Mary Lynders of Shelton. This scholarship was established in 1978 by the foundation and is presented to a senior for a five-month independent study or research project. Michael’s project was entitled, “The Robotic Arm: A study in Mechatronics”. His project’s objective was “to design, build, program, and demonstrate a mechanical arm capable of accurate positioning and manipulation of small objects. The robot will act autonomously as well as under human input.” Michael will be pursuing an electrical engineering degree.

Shelton High School also had two other finalists competing for the $14,000 Barton L. Weller Scholarship, Eunsun Hong and Dakota McDonough.

Eunsun Hong is the daughter of John and Kumon Hong of Shelton. Eunsun’s project was entitled, “Development of Non-Toxic Photostabalized Phycoerythrin for Application in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells” for which he was awarded $500. Eunsun will be pursuing a degree in Biology in the Fall.

Dakota McDonough is the daughter of William McDonough and Tamara Crews of Shelton. Her project was entitled, “The Effects of Varying Color Spectrum Wavelengths on the Growth of Pumpkins,” for which she was awarded $500. Dakota will be pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering in the fall.

The recipient of the $3,000 Vincent A. Voccia Vocational Award is Amanda Davie, daughter of John and Lisa Davies of Shelton. This award was established in 1983 by the foundation to be presented to a senior to assist in preparation for a vocational or technical career. Amanda is going to attend an international baking and pastry program in the fall.

The recipient of the $500 Senior Science Award is Veina Pillai, daughter of Rajesh and Sunitha Pillai of Shelton. The award was established in 1962 by the foundation to honor a student who demonstrated the ability to achieve recognition in science. Viena will be pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences in the fall.

The recipient of the $500 Eleanor F. Moore Business Award is Michael Cowell, son of Robert and Christine Cowell of Shelton. This award was established in 1973 by the foundation to honor an outstanding senior who has demonstrated the ability to achieve recognition in business. Michael will be pursuing a degree in business in the fall.

The recipient of the $500 Paul W. Broggi Communications Award is Nicole Romeos, daughter of Alex and Gloria Romeos of Shelton. This award was established in 1986 by the foundation to honor an outstanding senior who has demonstrated the ability to achieve recognition in communications. Nicole will be pursuing a degree in sports broadcasting.

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The Shelton Youth Service Bureau will begin its free 2015 “Drive-In” outdoor movies on July 15 with the film, Dolphin Tale 2.

The outdoor PG-rated movie screenings are Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (the Riverwalk) on Canal Street, through Aug. 22.

People should bring their own refreshments (no alcohol), seating and bug spray. Free and open to the public.

The weekly schedule

The complete schedule appears below:

July 18 — Dolphin Tale 2

July 25 — Big Hero 6

Aug. 1 — Wreck-It Ralph

Aug. 8 — The Boxtrolls

Aug. 15 — Paddington

Aug. 22 — Earth to Echo

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On Saturday, July 11th at 8:30pm, the POEMobile, a beautifully hand-painted truck covered in multilingual poetry that houses an innovative, open-air text projection system, will visit Bridgeport’s Arts Fest for the 3rd year in a row.  This popular event, led by poetry ambassador Shanna T. Melton,  features Bridgeport’s best and brightest poets.

B.Leah

The POEMobile is presented by City Lore and Bowery Arts + Science and is sponsored by Housatonic Museum of Art at Housatonic Community College and supported in part by the Downtown Special Services District, City Lights Gallery, the National Endowment for the Arts, and by the City of Bridgeport Mayor’s Office and the Bridgeport Arts + Cultural Council.

The Housatonic Museum of Art’s collection contains over 5000 works of art spanning ancient through modern times and is one of the largest permanent collections of any two-year college in the Northeast.

As part of the POEMobile’s event, the instrumental Impulse Ensemble will perform an introductory 30 minute set beginning at 7:30 and then accompany the poets’ performances. Impulse Ensemble  describe their sound as a free-flow fusion of World Music, Jazz and Spoken Word.

Antoinette Brim

The event will also feature performances by: Shanna T. Melton, Norah Pollard, Face, Ngoma, Antoinette Brim, Amina Seyal, Jasmine Eaton, and B. Leah.

This event is free and everyone is invited to attend!

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State Representative Jason Perillo (R-Shelton), State Representative Ben McGorty (R-Shelton) and State Senator Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) joined Naugatuck Valley Savings and Loan to honor student essay winners from Perry Hill and St. Joseph Schools in Shelton.

(Photo attached (L to R): Sen. Kevin Kelly, Daniel Ramos, St. Joseph School, Sydney Leifer, Perry Hill School, Rep. Jason Perillo, Caroline McCormick, Perry Hill School , Mya Gabriel, Perry Hill School, Rep. Ben McGorty and members of the Naugatuck Valley Savings and Loan honoring the essay winners.)

“These essayists’ showcased excellent topics and demonstrated in-depth research,” said Rep. McGorty.  “They have earned this recognition for their superior scholarship.”

Essay content

The students participated in an essay contest where they wrote about “Important Women in Connecticut’s History” and how their contributions to the state affected them.

Essay award recipients

The contest was held during Women’s History month in March and was open to all sixth grade students in Shelton.  The contest rules required students to compose a 300-word original essay. Winners from Perry Hill School were:

• Elizabeth Porto – profiled Actor, Katherine Hepburn
• Mya Gabriel – wrote about American Feminist, Charlotte Perkins Gilman
• Caroline McCormick – described the life of Joan Steitz a Sterling Professor of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale University
• Sydney Leifer – honored Alice Hamilton, first woman appointed to the faculty of Harvard University and was a leading expert in the field of occupational health.

Winners chosen from St. Joseph School:

• Anna Akter – wrote about former Connecticut Governor Ella Grasso

• Daniel Ramos – showcased Joan Steitz, a Sterling Professor of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale University

• Ana Bushati – focused on Harriot Beecher Stowe, American Abolitionist and Author

“All of the students who participated in this contest turned in excellent work on great subjects,” said Rep. Perillo.  “We are proud to offer our congratulations to the winners.”

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Staff, parents and community members gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the students in the Shelton High School Work Experience program. The goal of the program is to develop skills, attitudes and habits necessary to obtain and maintain employment. Students are provided with supervision and guidance to address the specific needs outlined in each student’s individualized education plan. Training is delivered in school and at community work sites, which are supervised by job coaches.

This year, there were 23 students training at 28 job sites.

The program began with remarks by Liz Wesolowski, assistant director of special education, and Beth Smith, headmaster at SHS. It was followed by remarks from Mayor Mark Lauretti and Supt. of Schools Freeman Burr.

Each student then received a certificate recognizing their participation in the program. Students honored at the recognition included: Michelle Amante, Ray Beardsley, Samantha Bekech, Matthew Cantillo, Miguel Colon, Yessenia Colon, Jessica Crasilli, Matthew Cunha, Julie DeScheen, Andrew Faenza, Jeff Fair, Jin Hong, Mackenzie Kelly, Carly Piazza Harper, Lubna Khan, Rebecca Macdonald, Antoinette Pettis, Nicholas Piciw, Rachael Riccio, Kyle Roberts, Denis Sierra, Katilyn Snyder and Kevin Wu.

The following businesses were presented with certificates for their participation in the program: Barnum Engineering, Beta Shim, Blanchette Sporting Goods, Camissa’s Garage, Countryside Veterinarian, Elizabeth Shelton School, Game Stop, Hyatt House, J&B Auto Body, Life Designs, Long Hill School, McDonalds, Mohegan School, My Sister’s Place, Perry Hill School, Plumb Memorial Library, Professional Tire, Shelton Board of Education, Shelton Historical Society, Shelton Intermediate School, Shelton Registrar of Voters, Shelton Senior Center, Spooner House, Stockbridge, Walmart and Wells Hollow Farm.

Students display certificates at Shelton High School.

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Valley United Way‘s Board of Directors recently approved allocations of nearly $475,000 to agencies providing a variety of health and human services in the Valley area.

The decision came as the culmination to a thorough process where agencies submitted budget requests and program information followed by site visits and reviews from 20 volunteer members of the allocations committee co-chaired by Ron Villani and Ned Miller.

The committee made their funding recommendations to the full board which approved the following allocations:

— American Red Cross, $18,000.

— Big Brothers Big Sisters, $4,000.

— Boy Scouts, Housatonic Council, $40,000.

— Boys & Girls Club, $86,500.

— Catholic Charities, $35,000.

— Christian Counseling Center, $6,000.

— Derby Day Care Center, $4,000.

— Domestic Violence Center, $24,500.

— Family Resource Center (TEAM, Inc.), $9,000.

— Girl Scouts, CT Trails Council, $4,000.

— 2-1-1 Infoline, $10,000.

— International Institute, $1,400.

— Julia Day Nursery, $1,500.

— Meals on Wheels (TEAM, Inc.), $9,500.

— N.H. Legal Assistance, $2,000.

— Parent Child Resource Center, $48,000.

— Rape Crisis Center, $20,000.

— Recreation Camp, $7,000.

— SONCCA, $500.

— Spooner House, $26,000.

— St. Vincent DePaul, $7,000.

— U.S.O., $450.

— Valley YMCA, $1,500.

— Visiting Nurse Association of SCC, $10,000.

— Volunteer Center, $50,000.

— Wellmore, Inc., $9,000.

‘Dedication’

“Our volunteers conduct a very comprehensive review of the agencies and programs and are very thoughtful and fair in their recommendations,” said Jack Walsh, president and COO of the Valley United Way. “The board is thankful for their expertise and dedication in determining how best to make an impact which donors have earmarked for programs and services in the Valley.”

Members of the allocations committee were Tom Christiano, Mark Daconto, John DeGray, Jim Geissler, Dave Grant, Jennifer Kalasardo, Rob Lesko, and Mary McNelis. Also serving were Ned Miller, Mary Ann Miskowicz, Allie Rafferty, Cindy Rinaldi, Brian Sexton, Michele Siu, Phyllis Sochrin, Bob VanEgghen, Rob VanEgghen, Ron Villani and Tom Welch.

Valley United Way is a philanthropic resource for the Valley towns of Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton, matching the needs of the community and the interests of donors to improve the quality of life in the community.

United Way supports and creates initiatives addressing youth, families and people in crisis.

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Here is what’s happening at the libraries in Shelton:

Huntington Branch Library

41 Church Street, 203-926-0111

Stories with Danielle — Thursdays, July 9 and 16, 11 a.m. Guest reader reads to 3 and 4 year-olds with a brief drop-in story session.

Critter Caravan — Thursday, July 9, 2 p.m. Meet animals from around the world: a chinchilla, hedgehog, lizard, tortoise and more. Register.

Show-and-Tell Storytime – Fridays, July 10 and 17, 10:30 a.m. Kids listen to stories, sing songs, and participate in a game or experiment. Children are encouraged to bring along an object for show-and-tell. All ages welcome.

First Friday Book Discussion — Friday, July 10, 1 p.m. The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty will be discussed, after reading a letter, a successful woman discovers a secret that destroys her life and that of two other women. Books available.

Spanish with Sandra — Fridays, July 10 and 17, 2:45 p.m. Immersion Spanish for three-to five year-olds and their parents in this program using songs, games, story time and other activities. Taught by Sandra Alvarado, a Spanish teacher from Shelton; this free program requires registration and space is limited.

Summer Tree House — Monday, July 13, throughout the summer to Friday, Aug. 14, children can weigh their reading material to earn prizes and reserve a seat at The Greg & Alex Show on Aug. 20.

Time Travel Teen Reading Club! — Monday, July 13, through Friday, Aug. 14. Teens entering seventh through 12th grade can participate in reading challenges to compete for exciting prizes including a free introductory flight lesson on a small plane donated by Image Aviation. In addition participating teens can reserve a seat at the Mind-reading and Hypnosis Show on Aug. 14.

Marvelous Mondays — Mondays, July 13, 4 p.m. Kids ages 3-10 drop in and start the week with assorted challenges including crafts, snacks, games or experiments. This week celebrate a special Winter in July offering snowman making and next week, butterflies. No registration is required – the program repeats every 15 minutes. Materials are distributed on a first-come, first- served basis. All projects must be completed in the library and kids bring their finished products home.

Bouncing Babies & Jumping Beans — Tuesdays, July 14, and 21, 11 a.m. Babies and toddlers (up to age 3) join Miss Marissa for scarves, maracas, stories and bubbles. No registration required.

Charlie Brown’s All-Stars — Tuesday, July 14, 2 p.m. In honor of the MLB’s All-Star Game, kid’s cartoon and snacks, sport gear featuring your favorite team’s logo.

Toddler Movement — Wednesdays, July 15 and 22, 11 a.m. Preschool kids march, dance and play musical instruments with songs and action poems included. For caregivers and kids ages 2½ – 4 years. Waitlist available.

Parachute Playtime — Wednesdays, July 15 and 22, 2:30 p.m. Sing while playing with the library’s giant colorful parachute.

Don’t Fight Stress … Learn How to Work with It — Wednesday, July 15, 6:30 p.m. Dr. Lori Monaco  explains what stress does to the body and offers suggestions on how to make life less stressful. Register.

Family Feud — Saturday, July 18, 1:30 p.m. Tweens and teens play the library’s version of the game show. Earn tickets for the chance to win a $15 Subway gift card. Register.

As I See It — Wednesday, July 22, 1 p.m. Friends of the Shelton Libraries offer a film viewing and discussion over desserts.

Plumb Memorial Library

65 Wooster Street, 203-924-9461

Rubber Ducky Reading Club — Thursday, July 9, 9 a.m. Babies through preschoolers are invited to be part of a family literacy activity this summer. Drop in and pick up the July card.

Plumb Memorial Library is at 65 Wooster Street.

AlphaBits — Thursdays, July 9 and 16, 10:30 a.m. Preschoolers and caregivers learn skills to make them kindergarten ready. Drop in session, siblings welcome.

Life is Art — Thursdays, July 9 and 16, 6 p.m. Kids 10 years old and older explore upcycled materials to create personal art statements. Come see what it is all about when 15 tweens get busy; registration required.

Teen Time Travel Summer — Thursday July 9, 9 a.m. Teens in grades 7-12 come September are eligible to read, report and win raffle prizes this summer.

Library Summer Tree House Spectacular — Thursday July 9, 9 a.m. Kids get their first Bingo cards to start winning Kids Cash to use in the Tree House Summer Camp Store. Summer reading is for kids entering kindergarten through sixth grade.

Just Dance — Friday, July 10, 10:30 a.m. Kids ages 1-12 show their best dance moves through this interactive dance video game.

Teen Moviethon — Saturday, July 11, noon to 8 p.m. Kids ages 12-18 drop in for either a TV-thon or Moviethon featuring time travel with snacks and dinner.

Adult Summer Reading Program — Monday, July 13, 9 a.m. Read and drop completed short forms in the tubs at either library; next week’s gift card is from Wells Hollow Creamery.

Science Sleuths — Mondays, July 13 and 20, 1:30 p.m. Kids 1-12 unravel the mysteries of science and unleash inner mad scientists with hands-on experiments; drop in.

SW CAPA — Monday, July 13, 6:30 p.m. Regional chapter of CT authors and publishers association, offers speakers and support, new members welcome.

Fun for Little Ones — Tuesdays, July 14 and 21, 10 a.m. Children ages 1-5 are invited to drop in and join Mrs. Fritsch for stories, songs, activities and a special theme-related craft.

Creative Kids — Tuesdays, July 14 and 21, 1:30 p.m. Kids 1-12 explore art using media to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

knit! – Tuesdays, July 14 and 21, 6 p.m. Adult fiber fans meet to knit, crochet and chat, lots of support and fellowship in this drop-in group.

Teen Time — Tuesdays, July 14 and 28, 7 p.m. A moment in time for teens/tweens to eat, try out, and create. Each week there is something different to uncover.

Bending Gravity — Wednesday, July 15, 1:30 p.m. Kids 3-13 watch as Eric Girardi performs a show of object manipulation choreographed to music. This free program is designed for ages 3 and older, plus caregivers. Free tickets available starting at 1 p.m.

Stay & Play — Friday, July 17 10:30-11:30 a.m. Open play time for preschool children, parents have an opportunity to chat over tea and cookies, drop in with a friend.

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It doesn’t get much better than spending the day playing all kinds of games, eating lunch in the sun and chatting with school friends.

That’s what kids are doing this summer at Shelton’s free playground camps, sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department.

Wyatt Cariolo, 7, and his twin brother Jett were quick to say that they’d be eight-years-old in a month.

Long Hill playground camp counselors C.J. Rizzo, Tom Meyers, Melanie Sabol and Marlaina Beers keep an eye on Jett Cariolo, an enthusiastic camper.

Jett was a fan of all kinds of games and activities the camp offers.

“I love it,” he said. “I can do whatever the heck I want.”

He and Gabriella Perry, 10, said they like going down to the field to play kick ball.

Erin Doyle, 9, said she likes group activities like Capture the Flag, a game youngsters were playing nearby.

Tom Meyers and Marlaina Beers serve as counselors.

Sarah Marro, 9, said arts and crafts are her favorite part of the day, and they’re taught twice a week at all playground camps, said Melanie Sabol, arts and crafts director of the “south side” playground camps at Long Hill School, Sunnyside School and Pine Rock Park.

Addy Brown, 8, Wyatt Cariolo, 7, Madison Stevens, 10, and Sara Tyer, 8, enjoy a snack while making friendship bracelets. (Photo Credit: Susan Hunter)

Other playground camps are located at Mohegan School, Booth Hill School and Elizabeth Shelton School, and they’re open to children who attend those schools and also to children from other areas of town.

This year, campers make a variety of arts and crafts, including visors that keep out the sun. The camp offers new board games, and a new group game called KanJam, which involves youngsters tossing a Frisbee into a barrel.

“We try to build on the games we have and games involving group participation,” said Jim Carey, who’s been directing the playground program for 51 years.

More than 75 children attend the Long Hill playground camp this year, Sabol said, and they also enjoy wall ball, basketball, “water” days when the weather gets hot and games on the playground equipment.

Rachel Morrow, 10 and Allorah Pennatto, 10, keep cool at camp. (Photo Credit: Susan Hunter)

Campers go on three field trips, including two roller skating excursions to the Rinks at Shelton and a trip to the movies in Seymour.

Children ages 6 to 14 attend the playground program from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays.

The playground program began on June 29 and runs through Aug. 7. Registration is ongoing, and parents can register a child on the first day he or she attends camp.Campers may be dropped off or picked up at any time during the day.

Playing together is a real perk of the playground camps, and several campers were making friendship bracelets out of twisted yarn to give to other campers.

Addy Brown, 8, sums up her favorite part of camp.

“I get to see all my friends,” she said.

For information on all of the Parks and Recreation Department’s summer camps and events, including playground camps, sports camps and special interest camps, call the Parks and Recreation office at 203-925-8422.

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U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, a democrat, marked UV Safety Month by calling on the country to follow Connecticut’s lead and institute a nationwide ban on tanning bed use by minors.

She was joined in her call by the President of the Connecticut State Medical Society, Dr. Robert Russo, and Glastonbury dermatologist Dr. Donna Aiudi. Connecticut has prohibited the use of tanning beds by anyone 17 years old and younger since 2013.

“Despite all the evidence of its harmful effects, the tanning industry continues to target teen and adolescent girls with aggressive marketing,” said DeLauro. “Salons and the tanning industry are still not being straight with their clients. We need to treat tanning devices for what they are: carcinogen delivery systems, just like tobacco.”

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that the risk of melanoma, the most common form of cancer for young adults, is 41% higher for those who have used a tanning bed, a press release from DeLauro’s office said. The risk is doubled for those who use tanning beds more than 10 times.

“Progress is possible when people are aware of the risks. I have long been pushing the Food and Drug Administration to take action. And we are making progress,” said DeLauro. “About a year ago, the FDA issued an order requiring tanning devices to get clearance before they can be marketed to the public. The same order required a warning on each device, stating explicitly that it should not be used by those under the age of 18. These are positive moves that will save lives.”

DeLauro represents the Third District, which includes a part of Shelton.

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For the first time in the history of the 40 Under 40 Competition, the Fairfield County Business Journal has selected an individual with an intellectual disability as one of its 2015 winners.

Alison Smith of Shelton, center, is congratulated by her parents, Stephen and Bonnie Smith, after being recognized as the first person with an intellectual disability to achieve the annual 40 Under 40 Award from the Fairfield County Business Journal. She is a Global Messenger and Ambassador for the Special Olympics and works at Stern Village in Trumbull as an outstanding Kennedy Center client.

Alison Smith of Shelton received thunderous applause and the only standing ovation of the evening when she was singled out for this prestigious regional award.  She is a Global Messenger and Ambassador for the Special Olympics and works at Stern Village in Trumbull as an outstanding Kennedy Center client for the past eight years.

Every year the Fairfield County Business Journal recognizes 40 people under the age of 40 who are dedicated to personal and professional development as well as community involvement.  According to the Business Journal “these exceptional people serve as role models for their peers and are motivated to succeed as leaders in their distinct field.”

Alison excels as a leader in Special Olympics. As a Global Messenger for Special Olympics, she speaks at corporate functions to spread the word that intellectually disabled people are just like everyone else.

“We are delighted 40 Under 40 has recognized the many achievements of Alison Smith, one of our exemplary Kennedy Center clients,” said Martin D. Schwartz, President and CEO of The Kennedy Center. “We are extremely proud of her many business and volunteer accomplishments. Being a leader does not necessarily mean building a business or making a lot of money. It means making a difference.”

Smith has been a Special Olympics Athlete since 1996.  She participated in the 1999 World Games as well as the 2006 and 2010 National Games. She traveled to the 2003 World Games in Dublin as a Global Messenger and filed reports on the exploits of Team Connecticut which were published on the Special Olympics Connecticut website.

She was also in the inaugural class of Special Olympics Global Messengers and has spoken at countless corporate and civic events. She has also spoken at numerous Opening Ceremonies events for both the Winter and Summer Games. She has appeared in a number of PSAs that have been aired on NBC30 and has often been interviewed by the press on the benefits of participating in Special Olympics.

She was the Law Enforcement Torch Run Ambassador in 2010 and traveled to Calgary, Canada to represent Connecticut. She also was the of four Global Messengers to act as emcees for the 2009 Law Enforcement Torch Run International Conference held in Connecticut. Following the conference she filmed a PSA with Derek Poundstone and was featured on his website. Additionally she not only “talks the talk,” but literally “walks (runs) the walk,” having run in the past 10 torch runs in her hometown of Shelton.

She embodies the spirit of Special Olympics in her everyday life. She has raised thousands of dollars for Special Olympics Connecticut by organizing teams for the Westport Penguin Plunge and even taking the plunge herself.

When not competing, Smith works everyday as a housekeeper at Stern Village, an assisted living facility in Trumbull. She has made many friends among the elderly residents. She holds a regular job and works everyday to the best of her abilities. She consistently receives praise and admiration from her co-workers.

In June, 2013, she received a citation from the State of Connecticut for “competing with heart and determination and serving as an inspiration to her friends, family and peers.”

Her father Stephen Smith summed up the significance of this award best. “The daily support of The Kennedy Center has provided Alison with the skills set and confidence to succeed,” he said.  “She has achieved more than our family has ever imagined. She is not your stereotypical 40 Under 40 winner.  This groundbreaking achievement will certainly inspire others in Fairfield County to reach their fullest potential.”

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Shelton Police were notified by residents from Sinsabaugh Heights, Cynthia Lane, Country Walk Condominiums, and Blacks Hill Road throughout the morning and early afternoon hours of a reported black bear sighting.

When officers arrived, they said the bear had already left the area.

Wildlife experts say residents should always take certain precautions to lessen the chances of black bear activity occurring within their neighborhoods. Securing trash containers and placing them curbside as close to pick-up time as possible, washing or spraying trash containers with a disinfectant in order to eliminate food odors, removing bird feeders, and if household pets are fed outdoors, removing the bowls and food soon after feeding are all ways of doing so.

This is not the first bear sighting we have had in Shelton this year. Here is a link to our other story.

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Police identified Shelton native Paul Czetwertynski, 50, as the man who was killed in an Ansonia house fire late Tuesday afternoon. Czetwertynski’s body was found after the blaze was put out.

Ansonia police and firefighters found the house at 96 Colony Street engulfed in flames when they responded to a report of a fire at 5:20 p.m. Emergency personnel found a woman on scene who stated that her male companion was still inside the residence and was unable to escape.

Police officers attempted to enter the residence but were unable to enter due the flames and heat.

Flames bursting out of the side of the Ansonia home (Photo credit: Tia Rich)

The Ansonia Fire Department, along with assistance from the Derby and Seymour  Fire Departments, were able to extinguish the fire.

An autopsy is pending and further information will be released at a later date, Ansonia police said in a statement.

No one else was injured.

The Ansonia Fire Marshal, Ansonia Police and the State Fire Marshal are investigating the fire. No cause has been determined as of yet.

The post Shelton man killed in Ansonia house fire appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Here is the honor roll for the 2014-2015 fourth quarter at Shelton High School.

High honors

Ninth grade

Olivia Adcox, Steven Atilho, Kayna Banez, Lindsey Batista, Russell Blakeslee, Carly Champagne, William Ciccone, Emily Comer, Marisa DeCiucis, Nicholas Dingwall, Audrey Falsetti, Brooke Fida, Zoe Figueroa, Pallavi Goel, Victoria Gould, Nicole Gregg, Justin Hafele, Elizabeth Herlihy, Matthew Hunyadi, Emily Johnson, TeaYoung Kim, Alexis Klimaszewski, Janelle Kmetz, Hope Komornik, Jillian Komornik and Kristen Kondor.

Also: Victoria Kostour, Anastasios Kydes, Emily Lam, Kathleen Lasky, Chelsie Lazaro, Courtney Litts, Vanessa Maco, Jack Marciano, Caitlin McGuire, Joshua Mondi, Allison Panek, Lauren Pawlowski, Aravind Ravishankar, Jessica Rigoli, Christian Rubio, Katelyn Russell, Georino Silva Da Rosa, Sean Sirisouk, Deloshene Sittambalam, William Smith, Daniel Stusalitus, Neha Swamy, Noah Swatt, Samantha Tiberi, Brian Toole, Julielle Topolski, Katelyn Usarzewicz, Olivia Vanghele, Jafar Vohra, Elise Wardell, Emily Yih, Jacob Zamani, Vendela Zayrath and Yuxin Zhang.

10th grade

Kathryn Arena, Deja-Rae Barrett, Alexis Belco, Sejal Bhargava, Gina Bialy, Sarah Bishop, Mackenzie Bures, Jamiy Burey, Madalena Cardoso, Amy Chang, Ashley Connolly, Victoria Constantino, Joshua Darak, Samantha Davidson, Zachary Deptula, Patrick Devaney, Victoria Dobrzycki, Jack Dorland, Michael Einig, Alexander Ercolani, Megan Fava, Alexa Fronsaglia, Kelsie Garretson, Mackenzie Heltzel, Kelly Hinterneder, Annalee Howard, Armana Islam, Meika Jean-Baptiste, Pauline Kaczynski, Glen Kaelin and Jigar Kapadia.

Also: David Keith, Riley Kelly, Ryan Kelly, Alexa LaBaw, Jaylan Leon, Michael Leone, Carley Lutheran, Carly Nicholas, Casey O’Connor, Ali Paolini, Marissa Peck, Rachel Philipson, Renee Pontbriant, Julia Riccio, Laura Robak, Alexandra Schaible, Timothy Schiffer, Jade Serrano, Ethan Shuster, Victoria Shuster, Jenna Sinko, Delonne Sloan, Ryan Stachelczyk, Peter Statkevich, Abigail Turco, Brandy Watson, Matthew Wells, Tyler Werner, Alexa White and Samantha Widomski.

11th grade

Allison Brown, Brianna Coba, Patrick Conte, Ian Diaz, Christopher DiCairano, Taylor Doolan, Pranshu Gupta, Jin Hong, Deusa Hughes, James Hunter, Henry Jiang, Laura Kandro, TeaJun Kim, Ashley Kovac, Cassandra Kryger, Andrew Krzywosz, Benjamin LaBaw, Alyssa Lam, Ethan Lam, Sydney Larsen, John Litts, Alexander Main, Julia Mancini, Mackenzie Mazerolle, Kyle McGinnis, Anthony Merigliano, Nicholas Mocciola, Anna Myers, Nicolette Niedzwiecki, Peter Peng, Jaclyn Pensiero, Christopher Pereira, Bryan Platt, Keith Prior, Gabrielle Rago, Dionna Riccio, Monica Rodriguez Espinal, Gregory Rogalin, Braeden Sagehorn, Kenneth Schif, Keyur Shah, Adnan Shilleh, Richard Simics, William Simics, Philip Smolitsky, Enea Stafa, Connor Struyk, Christian Tallo, Colleen Toole, Nathan Vargoshe, Saara Vohra, Emma White, Ryan Widomski, Kyle Winfield and Alexis Zhitomi.

12th grade

Chase Arsenault, Sara Ball, Sara Bertola, Janai Broadnax, Sara Brown, Marta Brzostowska, John Buynak, Kayla Charbonneau, Victoria Conlin, Michael Cowell, Christopher Cybart, Lorenzo Dahdal, Kaylee DeFelice, Joseph Edelstein, Jenna Falconieri, Joseph Geriak, Ta’Shay Gordon, Rachel Gottschalk, Amanda Hadden, Emily Juliano, Erik Kocur, Carlee Kopf, Austin Kothary, Connor Krajcsik, Victoria Laliots, Paige Lender, Elizabeth Lewis, Julia Lindberg, Christopher Lipscomb, Michael Lynders, Rainey Martovich, Jennifer Newman, Shania Oja, Serena Pacelli, Veina Pillai, Veronica Pleasant, Mark Polkowski, Nicole Romeos, Marie Sakr, Paul Salley, Thomas Savarese, Wesley Sekelsky, Matthew Tarini, Rebecca Taylor, Brianna Trzcinski, Matthew Vittori, Alex Walsh, Max Wang, Taylor Wright, Skye Zalenski, Matthew Zarrella and Qi Zhang.

Honors

Ninth grade

Kristina Abissi, Alexander Allegra, Ayjanna Angell, Justin Barbato, Matthew Bean, Lia Bocchino, Cameron Boyce, Celia Brnetic, Haley Bumbala, Michael Burden, Angela Camara, Michael Casinelli, Derek Cerulli, Cjei Alen Co, Andrew Cordes, Ashley Croffy-Smith, Alan Cybulski, Michael Davis, Khaleed Dawkins, Adriana Diotalevi, Sarah Discepola, Jared Dobkowski, Olivia Domack, Rachel Drost, Timothy Evans, Carey Evon, Raven Evon, Rebecca Fabrizi, Sarah Falsetti, Natalie Ferrante, Caitlin Foothorap, Kelsey Gillen, Jacob Hansen, Elias Hoponick, Miah Hudler, Janie Hulton, Andrew Jacabacci and Madison Katinger.

Also: Linzee Keeney, Jane Kosturko, Robert Kovac, Danielle Kreitler, Megan Kreitler, Brianna Krentzman, Kayla Krijgsman, Brittney LaPiccirella, Emily Laven, Brianna Leone, Sophia Marino, Tyler Massias, Elyse McCarthy, Mary McNeil, Michael Modica, Alexia Moreno, Isabel Moura, Tyler Nolan, Nicole Nyzio, Terrance O’Sullivan, Madison Olsen, Ryan Peers, Bruno Perlicki, Kyle Piroscafo, Andrea Posick, Lauren Rassavage, Kayla Resto, Jessica Ries, Brooke Roberts, Sara Rodia, Ryan Rodko, Joshua Romero, Jennifer Rosa, Alexander Ruenhorst, Jayne Sabovik, Jessie Shuby, Gerald Sorensen, Christian Spillane, William Stanske, Jaclyn Sullivan, Tian Tang, Angela Toth, Julie Turner, Samantha Viebranz, Jessica Visconti, Austin Viveiros, Conor Wall, Nicholas Walsh, Eric Zelanin and Jacob Zuklie.

10th grade

Taylor Adams, Savannah Aldridge, Rachel Ambrogio, Neeraj Badshah, James Ball, Zane Bendici, Alan Bensen, David Berritto, Fallon Berry, Morgan Camp, Corey Cannone, Jamie Chen, Madison Collins, Gregorio Corsale, Brian Craft, Anna Curran, Bruna Da Silva, Kiara Davila, Grace DeSanti, LaurieAnn Dewitt, Rebecca Dion, Chandler Duhaime, Santino Durante, David Dzujna, Elena Ford, Ana Frentress, Emma Gallagher, Olivia Gill, Christopher Goodman, Justin Greene, Dylan Hamme and Nicholas Heiden.

Also: Timothy Higgins, Natalie Kaczynski, Paul Kaminski, Matthew Keklik, Monika Kiwak, Aimee Koller, Timothy LeStrange, Samantha Lewis, Thomas Lindberg, Matthew Liscio, Alexander Lucas, Amy Lynders, Sabrina Maldonado, Brittany Mann, Emily Manzo, Cameron Marro, Ryan McCarthy, Elizabeth Mercado, Danielle Moura, Mustafa Mumtaz, Ryan Murphy, Brittany Nurse, Garrett Ortega, Kaleigh Panek, Mackenzi Pereira, Pattiann Piazza, Nicole Pingree, Michael Pinheiro, Olivia Puleo, James Reilly, Emely Ricci, Omar Sabbagh, Amanda Sanfilippo, Alyssa Santos, Kayla Sekelsky, Lindsay Shanahan, Kristen Shuster, Sarah Skoronski, Kelly Sou, Samantha Stevens, Brittney Stott, Michelle Sylvester, Julia Szczesna, Grace Tokarski, Anand Vaish, Brandon Van Akin, Michael Watt, Tyler White, Jevaun Whyte, Morgan Willets, Matthew Wojslaw, Alyson Yakowicz and Jennifer Yi.

11th grade

Kailee Adams, Arianna Berardi, Agean Binan, Madeline Bocchino, Azalea Brown, Alexis Calhoun, Alexa Camacho, Daniella Chang, Celina Chapman, Kyle Chirsky, Casey Cisero, Melissa Coscia, Holly Critchley, Victoria Croteau, Mackenzie Curley, Melissa Dawley, James DeFrancesco, Alexander DeMeis, Erica Diotalevi, Justin Dressler, Tommy Duong, Jillian Engeldrum, Zachary Ferreira, Gino Fiore, Jessica Florczak, Austin Foley, Stephanie Fortier, Claire Fox, Christopher Friend, Alyssa Gagnon, Allison Gutmann, Ryan Hart, Sarah Henckel, Zachary Johnson, Heather Keith, David Kim, Maxwell Kintner, Alexander Kirk, Samuel Kirk, Stephanie Kreitler, Adam Kropiewnicki, Kolbe Laing, Rachel Langdon, Tyler Lee, Virginia Lewis, Christina Lombard, Joseph Lombardi, Cristere Loyola, Meredith Marrone, Vanessa Masick, Michaela Mattern, Rachel Merriam, Samuel Molitoris, Sarah Montagna, Morgan Moura, Victoria Neves, Juliane Niedzwiecki, Joseph Niski, Alison Packnick, Gianna Panullo, Mark Percivalle, Sloane Rodia, Courtney Russo, Erika Sabovik, Nicole Sacilowski, John Saksa, Kevin Sala, Melissa Scrivani, Alyson Shaw, Carly Sikorski, Angela Simics, Ryan Smith, Tyera Sowell, Brendan Stewart, Thomas Sweeney, Natalie Tuccillo, Richard Turiano, Zachary Tuskowski, Leanne Varga, Nicolette Vartuli, Maria Vega, Alexa Wardell, Justin Widomski and Tyler Yurman.

12th grade

Yasmin Abdel-Hack, Cailyn Aichelman, Jason Anrico, Austin Azzarito, Laurel Bailey, Johnna Bakalar, Emily Bean, Alyssa Birmingham, Kylie Blankenship, Brittany Blass, Brenden Brickett, Raphael Britt, Christopher Brown, Christopher Buchanan, Carlie Cannone, Ashley Chan, James Chrislip, Gina Ciambriello, Nikko Cleri, Brianna Collins, Yessenia Colon, Ryan Corbett, Shane Corcoran, Jake Corriea, Amanda Davies, Connor Diaz, Alexis Dizenzo, Victoria Dortenzio, Jared Duhaime, Joshua Fedorko, Savannah Ferrante, Margaret Fitzgerald, Julia Fitzpatrick, Casey Ford, Julian Fountain, Cole French, Michaela Garcia, Hannah Gill, Brooke Grand, Jennifer Gulick, Haley Hudler, Jake Inzerra, Sonje Jack, Cassidy Kalinowski, Keelyn Kekac, Corlina Kiernan, Wesley Kocurek, Alexandra Koumbaros and Daria Kraszewska.

Also: Kevin Kuna, Leah Lavin, Abigail Lesko, Courtney MacDonald, Viana Machnicz, Gillian Malafronte, Dominika Marczak, Roisin Martin, Margaret May, Kai-Xan McDonald, Tara McDonald, Dakota McDonough, Matthew Minutolo, Michayla Neu, Stacie Nolan, Charles O’Keefe, Alexis Pavone, Brett Peterson, Wadson Petithomme, Jessica Poole, Andrew Porto, Dominick Rello, Michael Riccio, Kyle Roberts, James Rullan, Geoffery Russo, Anthony Sablone, Alison Scalenghe, Tal Shashoua, Scott Shnipes, Carly Shomsky, Liliane Sierra, Rachel Silverstein, Steven Sisounthone, Matthew Skoronski, Molly Smith, Samantha Sobbell, Jacob Stanisci, Dominique Stanziale, Caroline Steadham, Carolyn Taylor, Valentina Tran, Christopher Turechek, Nicholas VanSlyke, Ashley Varrone, Danielle Victoria, Logan Vidal, Daniel Vigezzi, Alexandra Weick, Regina Weissenberg, Alex Widomski, Rebecca Wlcek, Tori Yoon and Alexis Zoppi.

The post Shelton High releases final honor roll for year appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Do you know this kitten? It was found Tuesday in Shelton.

This kitten found Tuesday night in the White Hills section of Shelton.

H3 Pet Supply posted the cat’s photo and this message on its Facebook page: Way too friendly to be just a stray. Please share so that we can find his/her home. Must be able to prove ownership. Contact us at 203-690-1400 for more info.

The post Do you know this kitten? It was found Tuesday in White Hills appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The medical examiner has ruled the death of Paul Czetwertynski as a suicide, Ansonia police are reporting.

Czetwertynski died Tuesday afternoon.

Based on information learned during the investigation, police said Czetwertynski doused himself in some sort of accelerant, believed to be gasoline, lit a match and ignited himself on fire.

Information learned during the investigation led investigators toward alleged domestic issues between Czetwertynski and his wife. Threats were allegedly made as to burning the residence down. His wife was at the residence when Czetwertynski lit himself on fire and she was able to flee without sustaining any injuries, police said.

The post Medical examiner: Shelton man’s death a suicide appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The new liquor store policies in Connecticut have allowed owners to stay open until 10 p.m. Monday-Saturday and until 6 p.m. on Sundays, but those who would have thought businesses would jump at the opportunity might be surprised to learn otherwise.

Curt Hopkins

Curt Hopkins, manager of Super Saver Spirit in Shelton for the past eight years and treasurer of the Connecticut Package Store Association (CPSA), is one of multiple managers in local liquor stores that have chosen not to adjust its store hours to 10 p.m. during the week.

“The business level that would be there between 9 and 10 o’clock just doesn’t warrant the store to stay open,” said Hopkins.

This opinion matches that of several other store managers and employees around Shelton.

Both Danielle Cekle of the Wine Emporium and Frank Appleby of Last Call II Wine & Spirits said their store managers have also chosen to not stay open the extra hour on weekdays.

A representative from Stop & Shop was unavailable for comment on how the new policies have affected their sales on alcohol, but Hopkins said he’s received customer input on the changes.

Stop & Shop’s alcohol section

“Virtually no one has said that they would come here at quarter to 10 to come and buy anything,” said Hopkins. “Grocery stores can stay open until 10 p.m. at night and it won’t cost them a dime because they don’t have any employees in that (alcohol) department. ”

Hopkins said three years ago when liquor sales were first permitted on Sundays, liquor stores state-wide lost up to five percent of their beer sales.

“Even though the beer is more expensive over there, people end up purchasing beer in supermarkets because it’s a convenience item,” said Hopkins. “Despite what the state says was going to happen in terms of increased revenue because of selling additional wine and beer on Sundays, they didn’t see those results. There was no gain.”

Shelton has more than 10 active liquor stores in the city, not counting the supermarkets that also sell alcohol.

Liquor store employees said more time will need to pass in order to have a better understanding on how these extended hours will affect their business

Has the owner’s ability to price alcohol changed?

In response to other published articles over the past week or so, Hopkins said that the state’s minimum bottle price structure is still in effect.

The lowest price a package store can charge for a bottle of alcohol is a set price known as the “bottle price.” This figure established by wholesalers and posted monthly in an effort to keep alcohol prices at smaller liquor stores in line with the prices at larger stores, preventing any discounts.

Could later hours mean more DUI charges?

Hopkins said he thinks the increase in access to liquor stores could contribute to more DUI cases in an individual town.

Shelton’s Chief of Police, Joel Hurliman said these new policies have given his team no reason to begin doing more crackdowns on DUI cases, but if any reason emerges they will take action.

These new policies also enabled people to own up to four alcoholic beverage retail permits; the limit of ownership on these permits was previously three per person. This limit is set to increase to a maximum of five permits per person as of July 1, 2016.

The post New liquor store policies: Not a big deal? appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Joseph Edward Clancy of Huntington, passed away July 5th 2015 at Bridgeport Hospital after a long illness.

He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years Leonara (Nodie) Clancy in 2009.

Born on April 8th 1930 to Genevive Herald Clancy and Joseph Clancy, he was a lifelong area resident.

Joe attended St. Ann’s Primary School in Black Rock and was a graduate of Bassick High School. He earned an engineering degree at the University of Bridgeport, and he was an MIT Sloan Fellow. Joe served in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean War. He worked locally at Producto Machines and at Bridgeport Machines and raised his family in Trumbull.

He also served as a board member of the YMCA of Greater Bridgeport, Peoples United Bank, and a local hospital. For many years Joe participated in local charities to fulfill his desire to better the lives of the children of the city of Bridgeport.

Joe enjoyed sports and was a fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants. He played golf with many friends locally and in Florida. Joe was also an avid reader.

He is survived by three daughters, Elizabeth Weber, Eileen Clancy, and Elaine Clancy, a son-in-law Steve Weber, and a granddaughter Kelsey Weber, as well as two sisters, Lois Walsh (Edward, deceased), and Jane Hultgren (George, deceased) and in-laws Elaine Mileski, Leonard and Lorna Berger, and Allan and Susan Berger. Joe is also survived by a large extended family of nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces, and great great nieces and nephew.

Funeral services took place at Saint Lawrence Church in Huntington Center on Thursday, July 9th at 10:30 am. The Redgate-Hennessy Funeral Home, Main Street and Gorham Place, Trumbull, handled the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the Family requests donations in honor of Joe to the Cardinal Shehan Center of Bridgeport, 1494 Main Street, Bridgeport, Connecticut, 06604.

To send online condolences please visit www.redgatehennessy.com.

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