Sacred Heart Academy Principal Sr. Maureen Flynn, ASCJ recently announced the Honor Roll for the SECOND marking period of the 2015–16 academic school year.

The following students from Shelton were named to the Honor Roll:

HIGH HONORS: Sarah Conti, Joelle Cote, Megan Duffy,Abigail Kelly, Laura Mocciola, Jennifer Piciw, Olivia Ross

HONORS:Miriam Desrosiers and Olivia Mantero

Academic honors are awarded at the end of each quarter to students attaining an average of 3.5 or better. Those students who achieve a grade point average of 3.8 or greater are awarded high honors.

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The Board of Directors of the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County, along with its members, announce the first anniversary of its signature project, the Healthy Families Dinner Series. The project is a partnership between The Center for Family Justice, the Connecticut Coast YMCA, Bridgeport and the United Congregational Church of Bridgeport/Norma F. Pfriem Urban Outreach Initiatives.

The Healthy Families dinner series builds on each organization’s specialties to strengthen and better families by educating its participants on the importance of healthy relationships, nutrition, literacy and physical exercise with a focus on encouraging each child to focus on and succeed in school. The project focuses on families involved with each of the three partner agencies with at least one child age 3-7.

The JLEFC hosts bi-monthly dinners, where Junior League members and the programs families prepare a meal, eat together, and participate in an educational activity. The project is funded with monies raised by the JLEFC’s fundraising initiatives including the Healthy Families 5K Run/Walk, and the JLEFC Spring Gala.

“We are thrilled to announce the first anniversary of this exciting initiative. We have multiple families that look forward to returning to each event and we have loved getting to know them. Although this program is still in its infancy, we are delighted to see the positive impacts it has already had on these families and we look forward to seeing this program grow” said President Samantha Collin.  

For more information contact Samantha Collin, 203-921-9223, samanthacollin@yahoo.com.

The Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County supports the following communities: Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Newtown, Redding, Shelton, Southport, Stratford, Trumbull, Weston, and Westport. It is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. League membership dues, foundation and corporate grants and other revenue producing efforts support all JLEFC programs. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization.    jlefc.org/

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Center Stage Theatre director Gary Scarpa has announced the theatre will hold auditions for the comedy, “Over the River and through the Woods,” on Saturday, Feb. 20 between 10 a.m. and noon. Scarpa said, “We are seeking experienced or inexperienced actors to fill the roles. There are roles for adults, teens, and children.”

Over the River and through the Woods is a play about a young man’s relationship with his Italian grandparents. The central character, Nick, is an upwardly mobile 20-something year old who has been offered a promotion, which would mean leaving his native New Jersey and moving to Seattle. Nick’s four Italian grandparents scheme together to keep him in New Jersey.

“The play is both funny and touching at the same time,” said Scarpa. “Any of us who have or had a close relationship with our grandparents will be able to relate.”

Center Stage Theatre is a non-profit organization, founded in 2005 by directors Gary and Francesca Scarpa. The theatre presents a full season of five productions, using age appropriate casting. Center Stage’s purpose is to enhance the cultural environment within its community; to present high quality theatrical productions at affordable prices; to encourage growth and education through the performing arts; and to provide a means for interested adults, teens and children to experience and participate in various aspects of live theater.

Candidates will be given a scene from the play to read.

Center Stage is located at 54 Grove Street.For more information about the production and roles, visit www.centerstageshelton.org.

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Do you have a favorite spot in town where you like to clear your mind or relax? What are the top 5 most relaxing places in town?

Send all feedback to this week’s question or ideas for future questions to our email editor@sheltonherald.com or on Twitter @SheltonHerald.

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Home Instead Senior Care volunteer nursing home singer/entertainer will offer a free therapeutic musical sing-a-long show, A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That, for senior citizen residents and members of nursing homes, assisted living communities, senior centers and adult day care centers in Connecticut.

Presented and sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care of Trumbull, the hour-long show features an introduction, a little interactive comedy, and a group of songs to sing-a-long with by artists such as Al Jolson, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Neil Diamond, Ricky Nelson, Willie Nelson, Barry Manilow, and others, as well as a couple of songs from Man of La Mancha.

The equipment needed on-site for this show is a microphone and a stereo CD player. No microphone is needed if performance space does not require sound amplification.

To schedule a show, call Home Instead Senior Care of Trumbull at 203-386-1151, ext. 200.

The post Free therapeutic musical sing-a-long show for seniors appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Health Notes is a weekly feature that highlights health and wellness news in the area. Hospitals and other health related agencies may e-mail items to scappetta@hersamacorn.com.

Expectant parent classes and tours

Bridgeport Hospital offers classes and tours for new and expectant parents, including Birthplace Tours, Thursdays, Feb. 11, 18 and 25; March 3, 10, 17, 24  and 31, 6-7 p.m.; Infant CPR Anytime, Thursdays, Feb. 11, 18 and 25; March 3, 10, 17, 24  and 31, 7:15-8:15 p.m. To register, call 888-357-2396.

Diabetes prevention

Free diabetes prevention program Thursdays, 6 p.m., Stratford Health and Wellness Center Francis R. Scifo, MD Community Education Room, 3272 Main Street. To register, call 203-375-5844, ext. 32.

Controlling chronic conditions

Griffin Hospital will host a free six-week workshop to help individuals diagnosed from chronic conditions take back control of their lives Thursdays, Feb. 4-March 10, 1-3:30, at the hospital, 130 Division Street, Derby. To register, call 203-732-1523.

Genetic counseling

Bridgeport Hospital’s Norma Pfriem Cancer Institute, in partnership with the Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program, provides weekly genetic counseling services by appointment, every Friday beginning at Norma Pfriem Breast Center, 111 Beach Road, Fairfield. Genetic counseling will be offered again at the hospital’s outpatient campus at 5520 Park Avenue, Trumbull, when a new medical office building opens at the site in spring 2016, 203-200-4362.

Blood pressure screenings

Bridgeport Hospital offers free blood pressure screenings at Fairfield Senior Center, 100 Mona Terrace, Mondays, Feb. 15, March 7 and 21, 9:30-11:30; Stratford Baldwin Center, 1000 West Broad St., Monday, March 14, 9:30-11:30; Shelton Senior Center, 81 Wheeler St., Monday, Feb. 22, March 28, noon-2, 888-357-2396.

Look Good…Feel Better

Sponsored by the American Cancer Society and Bridgeport Hospital, this free program helps women with cancer learn beauty techniques to overcome the appearance-related side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment Monday, Feb. 15, noon-2, Operations Conference room at the hospital, 267 Grant St. To register, call 888-357-2396. Also offered Monday, March 15, 2-4 p.m., Norma Pfriem Breast Center, 111 Beach Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-5300.

Traumatic brain injury group

Meets the third Tuesday of the month, Feb. 16, March 15, 6-7:30, Disability Resource Center, 80 Ferry Boulevard, Stratford; 203-380-1004.

Breastfeeding support

Free breastfeeding support group for new and expectant mothers meets Wednesdays, Feb. 17, March 2 and 16, 10-noon, hospital’s outpatient campus, 5520 Park Avenue, Trumbull. To register, call 888-357-2396.

First aid and safety classes

Bridgeport Hospital’s Emergency Care Institute offers the following American Heart Association self-care classes at the hospital, 267 Grant St. Registration required. Call 203-384-4497.

Administration of medicine, Tuesday, March 8 and 22, 6:30-9:30 p.m., $50 full program, $25 injectables only; Adult, child and Infant CPR/defibrillator two-year certification, Wednesday, March 2, 6-9 p.m., $65; Pediatric first aid & safety and adult, child and infant CPR/defibrillator training two-year certification, Saturday, Feb. 20, March 12 and 26, 8:30-5:30, $100 full class or $70 first aid portion only; Basic life support for healthcare providers two-year certification Wednesday, Feb. 17, March 16, 6-10 p.m., $90 ($65 for those with an unexpired American Heart Association certification card).

Ostomy support

Bridgeport Hospital’s free ostomy support group meets Sunday, Feb. 21, March 20, 2, Visiting Nurse Services of Connecticut, 12 Cambridge Drive, Trumbull. Open to anyone who has had or will have an ostomy operation, such as a colostomy, urostomy or ileostomy. Spouses welcome. Sharon Tilley, RN, 203-384-3209.

Low vision talk

Griffin Hospital and Lions Club of Connecticut will host “Taking a Look at Low Vision,” a free talk about Low Vision, its causes and therapy options on Thursday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m., at the hospital, 130 Division Street, Derby.

To register or for more information, call Kerry or Deborah at 203-732-7399.

Bereavement support

Ongoing bereavement support group every Friday, 10-11 a.m., VITAS Office, 99 Hawley Lane, suite 1204, Stratford. To register call 203-455-3300 or email Esmail.Dezhbod@vitas.com.

Griffin Hospital support groups meet in an eight-week cycle at the hospital, 130 Division St., Derby, Sundays, 2:30-4, started Sept. 20; Tuesdays, 2:30-4, started Sept. 22; and Wednesdays, 6:30-8, started Sept. 23; 203-732-1132 or hbillingham@griffinhealth.org.

St. Mary Bereavement Support Group New Day 10-week program Thursdays, began Sept. 24, 1-3, St. Mary’s Church Hall, 70 Gulf Street, Milford, 203-283-1934, 203-874-2376, 845-239-2007; $10 fee required for the New Day Journal.

St Jude Parish of Monroe has a free nine-month Bereavement Support Group, which began Sept. 9. The group will meet twice a month on Wednesday, 2:30-4, in November and then once a month from December through May; 203-261-6404.

10-week program meets at St. Stephen’s Church, 6948 Main Street, Trumbull, Thursdays, started Oct. 1, 4:30-6. Registration required: 203-268-6217.

The Caring Network, a free ongoing support group for adults who have lost a loved one through death, meets the first and third Wednesday of every month, 6-8 p.m., Bridges campus, 941 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Registration not required. Information: Cody-White Funeral Home, 203-874-0268, Cynthia Dodd, M. Div, 203-878-6365, ext 344.

Weight-loss surgery

Free informational seminars are held regularly at 112 Quarry Road, Trumbull, for people interested in learning more about weight-loss surgery. Candidates for weight-loss (bariatric) surgery are generally 60 or more pounds overweight or have type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, gastric reflux, hypertension or cardiovascular disease; 203-789-6237.

Substance abuse support

The Community Addiction & Recovery Education & Support (C.A.R.E.S.) Group provides a free, weekly drop-in support group for parents and other concerned family members whose loved ones are using or abusing mind-altering substances. The C.A.R.E.S. Group’s mission is to provide education, support, access to resources, and hope for individuals and families struggling with substance abuse or addiction. C.A.R.E.S. meets every Tuesday, 7-9 p.m., at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1734 Huntington Tpke., Trumbull, 1-855-405-0246, thecaresgroup.org.

Parkinson’s fitness class

The Watermark at 3030 Park will continue its Parkinson’s Fitness Class, a bi-weekly class designed to help people living with Parkinson’s engage their muscles and increase mobility. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:45 at the senior living community, located at 3030 Park Avenue on the Bridgeport-Fairfield town line.

Due to a limited number of spaces, reservations and a small participation fee are required for the fitness class. To RSVP, contact Cindy McGuire at 203-373-6108.

Caregiver support

George’s Hill is a social engagement group for people diagnosed with early dementia and their caregivers meets second Thursday of the month, 11:30-1, light lunch noon-12:30, Unity Hill United Church of Christ, 364 White Plains Road, Trumbull. Anyone with a wheelchair, or problems with mobility, may enter through the kitchen door in back as there are no steps to negotiate; 203-374-8822, unityhillucc.org.

Support group for caregivers and families led by Harbor care Director, David Fife, third Thursday of the month at 5:30, Middlebrook Farms of Trumbull, 2750 Reservoir Avenue, Trumbull; 203-268-2400; dfife@benchmarkquality.com.

Group for family members and others responsible for the day-to-day care of elderly relatives meets second Friday of month, noon-1, Operations Conference Room, Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant Street; 888-357-2396.

Sunset Shores Adult Day Health Centers hosts a Caregiver’s Support Group the second Monday of the month, 5-6 p.m., 720 Barnum Avenue Cutoff, Stratford. The group helps to provide emotional, educational and social supports for caregivers. It can also assist in developing methods and skills to solve problems associated with caregiving responsibilities. Open to the public. RSVP to Mary Pruzinsky, 203-380-1228.

First and third Thursday of each month, 4 p.m., Jewish Senior Services, Grasmere by the Sea Adult Day Program, 1 Post Road, Fairfield; 203-365-6470, adultday@jseniors.org. Also, second Tuesday of the month, 4 p.m., Jewish Senior Services, The Jewish Home, 175 Jefferson Street, Fairfield; 203-365-6479; fsviridoff@jseniors.org.

Stroke support

Tuesday, March 1, 6-7 p.m., Ahlbin Rehabilitation Center, 4 Corporate Drive, Shelton, 203-925-4201.

Senior driving course

AARP’s Smart Driver course Saturday, March 5, 9-1, first-floor Administration Conference Room at Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant Street, 888-357-2396.

AARP driver safety

Griffin Hospital will host an AARP Driver Safety Program Saturday, March 5, 9-1, in the hospital’s dining room meeting rooms, $15 AARP members, $20 non-members. Make checks payable to AARP. To register, call Esther at 203-732-1523.

Accelerated CNA evening classes

The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers, at 300 Seymour Avenue, Suite 206, in Derby, is offering an evening session of its Accelerated Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program this spring to help aspiring healthcare professionals quickly jump-start their careers.

The six-week CNA program starts March 7 and runs Monday-Thursday with classes 5-9 p.m. and clinical training Monday-Thursday from 5-10 p.m. Anyone 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED may apply for admission, 203-732-1276, griffinhealth.org/allied-health.

Spirituality and meditation

Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Derby, is helping individuals get their spirits ready for spring with a free program on spirituality and meditation from 6-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16.

Janice Lautier, director of Spiritual Care and Education at Griffin, will host “Awakening the Sense of Spirituality,” an interactive program that demonstrates how spirituality and meditation can help bring feelings of inner peace and purpose.

To reserve, call 203-732-1511 or visit griffinhealth.org/events.

Yoga classes

Overworked? Stressed out? Need a change? Escape the noise of daily existence by treating yourself to a yoga session at “A New Earth Yoga.” All levels welcome. Daily classes are by donation at 9:30, 12:30 and 6:30. To reserve a space, call 203-268-9516 or email anewearthyoga@gmail.com; anewearthyoga.com.

“New ‘Mindful Flow” yoga class series offered Fridays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at 2505 Main St., Suite 224, Stationhouse Square, Stratford, naturesourcecare.com/yoga; 203-895-5534, info@naturesourcecare.com.

Nutrition for cancer survivors

Class provides information and resources for healthy eating during and after treatment in addition with dietary tips and modifications to help improve overall wellness and health, the second Wednesday of every month, 5-6 p.m., St. Vincent’s Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care adjacent to the hospital, 203-576-6158.

Overeaters self-help group

Overeaters Anonymous is a 12-Step self-help group for compulsive overeaters. The group meets every Sunday, 8:45-9:45 a.m., at St. Vincent’s Hospital, 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport, in the Seton Room on Level C. There are no dues, fees or weigh-ins. The only requirement is a desire to stop eating compulsively. For more information, visit swctoa.org or call Bill M., 203-455-7766.

Family support group

For adult patients, family members and friends who are coping with a diagnosis of leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or Hodgkin’s disease, first Tuesday of every month, 4-5:30, St. V’s Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care, Level 3 Medical Oncology Conference Room, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport, 203-576-6158; tmclaugh@stvincent.org.

Hospice volunteer training

The Connecticut Hospice, Inc. is sponsoring its fall volunteer training this October. The course will inform and prepare prospective volunteers in all aspects of Hospice Care for patients in lower Fairfield County, 203-315-7510, 800-8-HOSPICE ext. 510, jcullen@hospice.com.

Lunch & learn cancer support

A free Lunch & Learn Cancer Support Group offered by St. Vincent’s third Thursday of the month noon-1, Oncology Conference Room, Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care, adjacent to the St. Vincent’s Medical Center, 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport, 203-576-6158, tmclaugh@stvincents.org.

Al-Anon meetings

Al-Anon is a resource for family members and friends affected by alcoholism.

Al-Anon meets Sundays, 6:30 and Wednesdays, 7:30, St. Ann’s, old convent behind church, Brewster Street, Black Rock; Sundays, 7, St. Charles Church, (Spanish meeting), 391 Ogden Street, Bridgeport; Fridays, 8, Bridgeport Mental Health Center, 1635 Central Avenue, first floor (park and enter from parking deck off Mead Street); Monday at 7:30 a.m., and Thursday at 11:30 a.m., at Grace Episcopal Church, 5958 Main Street, Trumbull; Thursday at 8 p.m., at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1734 Huntington Tpke., Trumbull. Alateen helps teens age 12-20 and also meets Thursday at 8 p.m., at Trinity Episcopal Church. There are no dues or fees to participate.

For information about groups in Connecticut, call 1-888-825-2666. For more information about Al-Anon, visit ct-al-anon.org. A free publication is available at Al-AnonFamilyGroups.org.

Addiction support

Do you have a problem with alcohol, drug addiction or any life controlling issue? Are you affected by a loved one’s addiction? Higher Ground Ministry is non-denominational and offers help that is permanent through Biblical truths. Through Higher Ground Ministry you will receive support, encouragement and spiritual guidance that will change your life forever. To find a meeting near you, call 203-888-9974 or visit highergroundministry.org.

Diabetes education

Fourth Thursday of the month, 6-7:30, St. Vincent’s Level 4 Seton Conference Room, 203-576-6168.

Free yoga for cancer patients

Restorative yoga, chair yoga with breathing and meditation for patients in active treatment or post-surgery, Tuesdays, 10 a.m., The Watermark, 303 Park Ave., Bridgeport; Thursdays, 10 a.m., Yoga Room, Level 3 of St. Vincent’s Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care, adjacent to the Medical Center. Gentle Yoga, for patients in treatment or recently finished, Saturdays, 8:30 a.m., Yoga for Everybody, 27 Unquowa Road, Fairfield. Formal Yoga, for cancer survivors of five years or less, Wednesdays, 4:30 p.m., The Watermark, 3030 Park Ave., Bridgeport, 203-576-6158.

Free HIV/HCV tests

The Greater Bridgeport Area Prevention Program and the Stratford Health Department will offer rapid HIV and Hepatitis C testing with results in 20 minutes every first and third Tuesday of the month from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Stratford Health Dept., 468 Birdseye St., Stratford.

To schedule an appointment call 203-385-4058.

Cancer support group

Ongoing monthly group is focused on giving support to patients and families who have been diagnosed with lung, colon, head and neck, esophageal, GI cancers and other solid tumors. Meetings are the third Wednesday of the month, 9-10 a.m., Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care, third floor conference room, St. V’s, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport. Call 203-576-6158.

Healthy traveler service

Bridgeport Hospital’s Healthy Traveler Service provides pre-travel consultations, travel vaccines, medications and comprehensive travel information to help prepare for a healthy and safe international trip. For information or to make an appointment, call 203-384-3613.

Ring for Your Rhythm

Bridgeport Hospital’s “Ring for Your Rhythm” line provides recorded, step-by-step instructions for taking a pulse reading, to help detect atrial fibrillation (a-fib) and possibly prevent a stroke. Call toll free, 24/7, at 855-247-8573.

Community acupuncture

Led by licensed acupuncturist Gregor Wei, Mondays, 10-2, Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center, 111 Beach Road, Fairfield. Call 203-255-5300 to register. Advance registration requested. Private appointments available.

Massage therapy

Massage is offered for oncology patients undergoing definitive active treatment and for survivors who have completed treatment. Call 203-576-6158 for an appointments. Program takes place on third floor of Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care at St. V’s, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport.

Fitness classes

Bridgeport Hospital’s Ahlbin Rehabilitation Centers offers weekly fitness classes in Bridgeport and Stratford:

Boot Camp, Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:45-6:45 a.m., 226 Mill Hill Ave., Bridgeport; Saturdays, 10-11 a.m., 3585 Main St., Stratford.

Women’s Strength Training, Tuesdays, 11-noon; Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m., 226 Mill Hill, Bridgeport; Saturdays, 8-9 a.m., 3585 Main St., Stratford.

Zumba, Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m., 226 Mill Hill, Bridgeport; Saturdays, 8-9 a.m., 3585 Main St., Stratford.

$8 per class or $75 for 10 classes. Tickets are available at all Ahlbin Centers locations, or before or after classes. For information or to register, call 203-336-7301 (Bridgeport) or 203-380-4672 (Stratford).

In addition to Bridgeport and Stratford, Ahlbin Centers has outpatient facilities at 4 Corporate Drive, Shelton; 2600 Post Road, Southport; and 2750 Reservoir Ave., Trumbull.

Health and wellness classes

St. Vincent’s Medical Center, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport offers a variety of health and wellness classes. Most sessions run for 10 weeks with the exception of Pilates, which is six weeks; and Y Diabetes Prevention Program and Weight Watchers program, 16- and 17-week sessions respectively. 10-week sessions: $90. Information/registration: 203-576-6267; scollins@stvincents.org.

Free exercise video program

A new online video program called A-B-E (Activity Bursts Everywhere) for Fitness, designed specifically to help adults meet those recommendations for daily physical activity, is available at abeforfitness.com.

Kripalu yoga

Beginner and intermediate level, runs weekly, Fridays, 9:15 a.m., Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center, 111 Beach Road, Fairfield. Class size limited to six students. Advance registration requested; 203-255-5300; bridgeporthospital.org. Yoga, restorative yoga and teen yoga classes also available. Call for full class schedule.

Pilates

Weekly, Mondays, 5:30 p.m., Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center, 111 Beach Road, Fairfield. Class size limited to six students. Advance registration requested; 203-255-5300.

Wellness booth

St. Vincent’s Wellness Booth has relocated to the main lobby of the Medical Center, 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport. Health screenings and services offered to the public every Tuesday and Wednesday, 11:30-3:30. No appointment required for any of the screenings.

Free blood pressure screenings are performed every Tuesday. On Wednesdays, Cholesterol/HDL ratio/glucose screening, $18; a lipid panel requiring a four-hour fast, $25; blood sugar screening alone requiring a two-hour fast, $1.

For more information call St. Vincent’s toll-free Care Line at 877-255-SVHS (7847).

Heart-disease risk quiz

Bridgeport Hospital offers “Take 10 for Your Ticker,” a free online heart-disease risk quiz. Quiz is available at bridgeporthospital.org, by clicking on the link in the “Take 10 for Your Ticker” box.

For those without access to the Internet, a free printed copy of the quiz, with an explanation of results, is available by calling 1-888-357-2396.

Help for new movers

Bridgeport Hospital’s free Newcomer Concierge Service helps new residents of Bridgeport and surrounding towns locate physicians to meet personal and family health needs. Service also provides information on health-related events and activities. To reach the Newcomer Concierge Service, call 203-330-7462, Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or Fridays, 9-3.

Caregiver support

Atria Stratford Assisted Living, 6911 Main St., offers a support group for family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease, or related dementia, living at home or in an extended care facility. Group meets first Wednesday of the month, 6-7; 203-380-0006.

Grasmere By The Sea: One Post Road, Fairfield, offers open discussion about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, first Thursday of month, 4 p.m.; 203-365-6470.

Jewish Family Service, 2370 Park Ave., Bridgeport, offers support group for family members or friends helping with the care of adults over 60, meets first Wednesday of month, 6-7:30 p.m. RSVP: 366-5438, Ext. 219.

Sunset Shores Adult Day Health Center, 720 Barnum Avenue Cut Off, Stratford, offers a support group for people caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Meetings are the second Wednesday of the month, 4-5; 380-1228.

St. Vincent’s SWIM family support group meets first Tuesday of each month, 4-5:30 p.m., Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care at St. V’s, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport. No reservations required; 203-576-6158; tmclaugh@st.vincents.org.

Prostate cancer survivors

St. Vincent’s SWIM Prostate Cancer Survivors Educational Lecture Series and Support Group meets at Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care, at St. V’s, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport. Call 203-576-6158 or e-mail tmlaugh@stvincents.org for dates and times of lectures. No reservations required.

Breast cancer wellness

St. Vincent’s Breast Cancer Survivor Wellness program, intended for women who have recently undergone breast cancer surgery and those further along in their recovery, 4:30-5:30, Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care at St. V’s, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport. No reservations required. For dates, call 203-576-6158.

Breast cancer stories

Bizymoms.com has helped many women with whatever information it is they may be seeking about breast cancer. A panel of cancer experts, women, wives, and mothers are waiting to share their expertise and stories while learning about yours. Visit bizymoms.com/cares/breastcancer.

Cancer boutique

St. Vincent’s partners with Saxon-Kent Lingerie of Orange to provide special products for women battling cancer. Boutique hours: Monday-Friday, 10-4. Fitting hours for wigs, prosthesis, mastectomy bras, lymphedema sleeves etc: Tuesdays, 2-4; Wednesdays, 10-noon; or by appointment; 203-576-6158; tmclaugh@stvincents.org. Boutique hours: 10-4.

Breast cancer support

Woman-to-Woman, an American Cancer Society sponsored support group for women who have had breast cancer or who have been newly diagnosed, meets monthly, 2-4 p.m., Cambridge Manor, 2428 Easton Tpke., Fairfield; 800-889-3340.

Cancer resource library

St. Vincent’s SWIM Cancer Resource Library is open Monday-Friday, 9-5, Maureen Ringel Cancer Resource Library, Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care, St. V’s. Medical Center, 2800 Main St., Bridgeport. A representative is available to assist visitors with navigation of web-based searches, cancer clinical trial searches and direct patient referrals to a variety of free resources Monday-Friday, 9-1.

MS support

Trumbull MS support group meets third Tuesday of each month, 6:30-8, Trumbull Library, 33 Quality St. Ed, 445-0118; 1-800- FIGHT MS; ctfightsMS.org.

Scleroderma support

The American Society For Scleroderma Research has formed a support group for all afflicted by this disease. The group meets every second Thursday, 6:30-7:30, St. Vincent Medical Center, Main Street, Bridgeport; Aimee Turiano or Joy LoSchiavo, 203-273-2034.

The post Health Notes: Week of Feb. 8 appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The Bridgeport Chapter of UNICO National is accepting applications for local one-time scholarships from grade 12 students of Italian descent attending high schools in the Greater Bridgeport area.

Applications must be completed in their entirety. All completed applications must be received by the Bridgeport Chapter of UNICO National no later than April 1, 2016. Applications are available at the school’s guidance office/career center.

For more information, contact Joe P. Vincenzi, scholarship chairman at 203-374-4304.

The post UNICO National accepting applications for scholarships appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 160 Hill Farm Road in Fairfield will host a presentation on Alzheimer’s awareness led by a representative of the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association on Sunday, Feb. 28, at 12:15 p.m. The talk, which is free and open to the public, is part of the church’s “LifeTalk” series of speaker-led conversations exploring issues of concern to the community. Coffee and refreshments will be served.

The presentation, “Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters,” led by Carolyn DeRocco, vice president of Programs and Education for the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will provide participants with an understanding of the difference between age-related memory loss and Alzheimer’s and what to do if they or someone they know has signs of the disease.

Participants will view a video that addresses the fears and myths associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The video shows real people who are living with early stages of dementia, as well as family members coping with the disease. The presentation will cover the following topics:

• The 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s
• Basic overview of Alzheimer’s
• Risk factors
• What is involved in getting a diagnosis
• Benefits of early detection including accessing available treatment, planning for the future and participating in clinical trials

For more information, contact the church at 203-255-0545 or visit oursaviours.net.

About Our Saviour’s

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), reaches out to the world and to its local communities with the Good News of the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ. The congregation receives strength for this mission through Worship, Christian Education, Service, Benevolent Giving, Witness, Mutual Support and a commitment to grow in faith and participation. Our Saviour’s is guided in the belief that, “As God Gives to Us, So We Give to Others.” Holy Communion is celebrated during worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 am each Sunday, with Sunday School and Adult Discussion held between services at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 203-255-0545 or visit oursaviours.net.

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Turning 65 can come with a lot of questions about Medicare and how and when to enroll. Southwestern CT Agency on Aging has trained and certified volunteer counselors through CT’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (CHOICES) who offer straightforward, easy to understand presentations to demystify the complexities of the Medicare program. Volunteer counselors are available to meet with individuals who are new to Medicare or current Medicare enrollees who have questions and need information on their Medicare healthcare options.

CHOICES is funded by grants from the Administration for Community Living and from the State of Connecticut. CHOICES is managed through the CT State Dept. on Aging and administered by the Southwestern CT Agency on Aging in Southwestern Connecticut. For more information call CHOICES at 800-994-9422.

Upcoming presentations will be conducted throughout Fairfield County at the locations and dates below:

• Norwalk Community Health CTR (CHC), 120 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, Friday, March 19, noon-2 p.m.
• Eleanor Apartments, 695 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, March 21, 3-4:30.
• ABCD Community Center, 52 George Pipkin Way, Bridgeport April 6, 10-11 a.m.
• Stratford Library, 2203 Main St, Stratford, April 12, 10:30-12:30.
• Burroughs Community Center, 2470 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, April 16, 4-6 p.m.
• Waveny Center, 3 Farm Road, New Canaan, Thursday, April 21, 6-7 p.m.
• Norwalk CHC, 120 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, Saturday, April 23, noon-3.
• Weston Senior Center, 9 School Road, Weston, Tuesday, April 26, 5:30-7:30.
• Westport Center for Sr. Activities, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport, Thursday, May 5, 5:30-7 p.m.
• Norwalk CHC, 120 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, Friday, June 10, noon-2.

There is no charge for this service. CHOICES counselors do not sell or endorse any insurance product. To find a counselor in your community or make an appointment with a SWCAA counselor, call 800-994-9422.

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The Shelton High School Sixteenth Annual Science Fair was held on Thursday, Feb. 3, in the school’s auxiliary gymnasium. Over 230 projects were entered into the competition. Eighty-three projects made it to the second round of judging. The fair was organized by the Shelton High School Science Department. Members from various community corporations, universities, retired educators, central office employees, and science teachers within the district served as judges for the day. They communicated with students about their projects and projects findings.

The Awards Assembly was held on Wednesday, Feb. 10, in the school’s auditorium. Mrs. Clark congratulated all of students for their accomplishments. Mayor Mark Lauretti, Superintendent of Schools Chris Clouet and Board of Education Chairman Mark Holden offered congratulatory remarks to the students. Housemasters Mr. John Skerritt Dr. James Zavodjancik and Mr. James Colandrea, announced the winners. Dr. Beth Smith, headmaster, Clouet and Holden, awarded certificates, plaques and cash prizes.

Those projects receiving honorable mention from the freshmen class were: Can Your Fingers Predict How Athletic You Are? by Amanda LoMonte; Rabbit Feces as Fertilizer? An Investigation  by Haley Adcox, Jacob Falanga and Mackenzie Joyce; How Fast Do Your Eyes Recover by Jillian Uanino. Sophomore class honorable mention went to: Disinfect-It! by Steven Atilho; Greywater and its Effects on the Environment by Carly Bryant; Fruits to Fluorescence by Deloshene Sittambalam.

Junior honorable mention was awarded to: The Mask Theory by Matthew Wells, James Ball and Andrew Reis; The Temperature of Radiant Luminol by Renee Pontbriant. Senior class honorable mention was awarded to: Reading Rainbow – How Does the Hue of the Font Influence the Speed of Recognizing Words? by Avni Kapadia and Lourdes Rivera.

Third place winners were: The Effect of Antibiotics Compared to Herbal Remedies Against E. Coli by Sarah Gloria (freshman); The Seebeck Effect in Action by Rebecca Fabrizi (sophomore); Moisturizer or Even Drier? by Kathryn Arena, Olivia Gill and Kaleigh Panek (juniors); The Effects of Sea Squirts on the Habitats of native Species in Long Island Sound by William Simics III (senior). Second place winners were: 122 Effects of Disinfectants on Bacteria Growth by Noah Vargoshe (freshman); Clean the Seas:  The Effects of Pollutants on Aquatic Life by Lauren Pawlowski and Courtney Litts (sophomores); The Kinetics of Chemiluminescence by Kelly Sou (junior); Going Potatoes!!  A Bio-Polymer to Replace Plastic by Christian Tallo, Emma Vittori, and Jafar Vohra (seniors).

Those entries which placed first were: The Efficiency of Various Air Foil Designs in a Wind Tunnel by Siddharth Jain (freshman); How Does Pitch Effect Turbine Efficiency by Jacob Zuklie (sophomore); Biodegradable Plastic Study to Prevent Oceanic Pollution by Marissa Peck (junior); Can Connecticut’s Water Quality be Dependent on the Type of Riverbank? by Allison Brown (senior); Programmable LEGO Controller Used to Autonomously Analyze and Efficiently solve a Rubik’s Cube Puzzle by Joseph Niski.

The following eight projects were overall winners and will participate in the Connecticut State Science Fair at Quinnipiac University in March: The Effects of Sea Squirts on the Habitats of native Species in Long Island Sound by William Simics III; Going Potatoes! A bio-Polymer to Replace Plastic by Christian Tallo, Emma Vittori, and Jafar Vohra; Clean The Seas:  The Effects of Pollutants on Aquatic Life by Lauren Pawlowski and Courtney Litts; How Does Pitch Effect Turbine Efficiency by Jacob Zuklie; Biodegradable Plastic Study to Prevent Oceanic Pollution by Marissa Peck; The Efficiency of Various Air foil Designs in a Wind Tunnel by Siddharth Jain; Can Connecticut’s Water Quality be Dependent on the Type of Riverbanks? by Allison Brown.

The following project came in first place and was declared the Best in Show: A Programmable LEGO Controller Used to Autonomously Analyze and Efficiently Solve a Rubik’s Cube Puzzle by Joseph Niski. Over $1500 in prize money was awarded with monetary donations from Mayor Lauretti and the Shelton High School PTSO.

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Keyur Shah

Keyur Shah, a Shelton High School senior, has been named a Finalist in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program. He was presented with a certificate by Headmaster Dr. Beth Smith and Mrs. Kathleen Riddle, K-12 Guidance Curriculum Leader.

Keyur was entered into the competition as a junior. More than 1.5 million juniors in about 22,000 high schools entered the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2014 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. A pool of nationwide Semifinalists, which represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, was selected. From this pool these academically talented high school seniors had an opportunity to continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $36 million. To become a Finalist, a Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the high school principal, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. The Semifinalist and a high school official then submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes the student’s essay and information about the Semifinalist’s participation and leadership in school and community activities. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference. National Merit Scholarship winners of 2016 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July.

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On Saturday Feb. 13 from 9 am – 1 pm you can bring your gently used clothing linens, shoes and handbags to Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley at 1 Positive Place in Shelton. This clothing drive is hosted by the Lavietes Unit Keystone Club to help raise funds to support the Boys & Girls Club. They are very excited to have New York Giants Player, Jerome Cunningham, attending the event in support of the Lavietes Unit Keystone Club.

For every pound of clothing collected Big Brothers Big Sisters Foundation will donate 20 cents to the Boys & Girls Club and the pounds can really add up. Big Brothers Big Sisters has been offering local non-profits, sports teams, churches and schools the opportunity to run a “pay-by-the-pound” clothing drives for the past year and half and has conducted more than 200 in our area providing critical funds to groups in the area at no cost to them.

For more information about the Boys and Girls Club please contact Jennifer DeLeon at 203-924-9329 or JenDeLeon@BGC-LNV.org. For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters clothing drive program please contact Rebecca Flynn at rebecca.flynn@bbbsswct.org or 203.727.3539

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Engineering Day will be held on Saturday, Feb. 13, from 10-3, at the Discovery Museum, 4450 Park Avenue, Bridgeport.

Make scribblebots & electric sprinkles, construct a geodesic come, create a seismic shake-up, plus, planetarium shows, make-&-takes, and Q&A with engineers.

Bring a new or gently used book, get $1 off admission (limit 1 per admission).

Cost: $10 adults, $8 children. Members free.

Information: discoverymusuem.org.

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A photo of last year’s Easter Egg Hunt/Pancake Breakfast.

The 12th Annual Joseph A. Pagliaro, Sr. Easter Egg Hunt/Pancake Breakfast is the place to be on Saturday, March 19, 8:30 a.m.-11 a.m at the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, 1 Positive Place. There will be a pancake breakfast and the Easter Bunny will be there.

There will be a magic show, Easter egg hunt, raffle face painting and inflatable slides. Such a wonderful and meaningful tradition. $6 per adult and $6 per child of all ages. Children under the age of 1 are free! To purchase tickets, emailPagliaroeasteregghunt@gmail.com. Advance ticket purchase only–Tickets will not be sold at the door. The breakfast, magic show, raffle and slides are indoors with the egg hunt held outside. If rain or bad weather, the egg hunt will also be held inside of the Boys and Girls Club. So, the event is on rain or shine!   The event benefits the Joseph A. Pagliaro, Sr. Family Fund,  a component fund of the Valley Community Foundation.

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Aquarion Water Company is reminding customers of a chilling fact — every winter, unsuspecting property owners experience catastrophic frozen pipe bursts. Unprotected pipes and water meters can freeze and expand within hours of the onset of frigid weather. Pipes running through uninsulated exterior walls or other unheated spaces usually are at the highest risk, although pipes in heated rooms can freeze if exposed to cold drafts. Frozen pipes can burst resulting in thousands of dollars in damage for remodeling, mold remediation, emergency substitute housing costs, as well as the loss of irreplaceable belongings. To help customers avoid these problems, Aquarion’s website, aquarionwater.com is featuring tips on preventing frozen pipes and meters.

“It doesn’t take much. Even a tiny split in a pipe can spew hundreds of gallons of water into your home or business in one day,” said Donna Parlatore, Director of Utility Operations for Aquarion Water Company. “We strongly encourage property owners to review and utilize the frozen pipe and meter prevention tips on our website to prevent this from happening to them.”

Keeping cold temperatures away from pipes and water meters with insulation is far easier and less expensive than replacing pipes that freeze and burst. Aquarion’s website offers information on what property owners can do before freezing weather, signs of a possible frozen pipe or meter, and steps to take in the event of a frozen or damaged water pipe or meter. Some actions customers can take to prevent frozen pipes include:

• Letting a faucet fed by pipes exposed to the cold drip to prevent the water inside from freezing.
• Never completely shutting off the heat in a building unless all the pipes and toilets are drained first.
• Keeping the doors to rooms where the pipes and water meter are located, including sink cabinets, open so warm air can keep temperatures above freezing.
• Eliminating cold drafts near water pipes (and, if indoors, the water meter) by filling cracks in walls and around windows, replacing broken glass, and installing storm windows on basement windows.

It is the responsibility of property owners to keep pipes and water meters from freezing and making appropriate service calls. If a meter freezes, Aquarion will send a service technician to replace it, but the company will not thaw frozen pipes or repair burst ones.

Parlatore also stressed that anyone trying to thaw a pipe on their own should never use a torch or open flame. “We would recommend contacting a licensed plumber.”

More information and tips on preventing and dealing with frozen water pipes and meters may be found on Aquarion’s website, aquarionwater.com.

About Aquarion Water Company

Aquarion Water Company is the public water supply company for more than 625,000 people in 51 cities and towns throughout Connecticut, as well as serving customers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.  It is the largest investor-owned water utility in New England and among the seven largest in the U.S.  Based in Bridgeport, Conn., it has been in the public water supply business since 1857.  Across its operations, Aquarion strives to act as a responsible steward of the environment and to assist the communities it serves in promoting sustainable practices.  

For more information on Aquarion Water Company and its subsidiaries, please visit aquarionwater.com or facebook.com/aquarionwater.

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The Girl Scouts of Connecticut held an official ribbon cutting on Saturday, Feb. 6 introducing its first ever Mobile Service Center.

“With the help of our Mobile Service Center, Girl Scouts of Connecticut will have even more the ability to reach and effectively serve our membership of 52,000 Girl Scouts and volunteers across the state,” said Mary Barneby, CEO of Girl Scouts of Connecticut.  

The ribbon cutting was attended by Girl Scout staff, volunteers, and Girl Scout Amelia from Hamden, who is featured on the customized van.

Girl Scout Amelia from Hamden is featured on the customized van.

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For decades, a volunteer civic organization of 30 area business leaders and professionals have been directly supporting Kennedy Center clients by organizing year-round activities and contributing thousands of dollars annually to individuals with special needs.

Most recently, the Probus Club of Greater Bridgeport, presented a new 7-passenger van for Kennedy Center clients who live at Probus House in Bridgeport, the club’s namesake.

Renee East, vice president of Community Facilities at The Kennedy Center, noted, “Previously, Probus House used a high-mileage, high-maintenance vehicle that was equipped to carry only one wheelchair.  Since two of the six residents now require wheelchair assistance, the van driver would have to make extra trips for the residents doctor’s appointments and  group outings.

“Through the generosity of the Probus Club, this new vehicle can accommodate two wheelchairs. Our Kennedy Center residents love riding in the new van together.”

Artie Weissman, co-president of the Probus Club of Greater Bridgeport, said, “Our club’s major fundraiser of the year is Bike the Beach in Fairfield. This popular  event in September attracts up to 350 bike riders and has been in existence for over 25 years. Through the net proceeds of Bike the Beach, we were able to purchase a new van for the Kennedy Center clients.”

Co-President Gary Felberbaum added, “The Probus Club has an ongoing commitment to The Kennedy Center. In fact, The Probus House, a group home, was named in honor of our club in 1982 because of a multi-decade relationship of philanthropy with The Kennedy Center.”

“Traditionally, we fund either a home improvement project at Probus House or support another Kennedy Center program that needs additional funding.”

The National Probus Club was founded in 1921 in New Haven. A decade later, the Probus Club of Greater Bridgeport, chartered in 1939, is one of fifteen Probus Club chapters in the country. The club’s mission is to serve people who are intellectually and physically challenged in the Greater Bridgeport area.

“In addition to making annual monetary contributions to The Kennedy Center, the Probus Club organizations year-round activities for the clients to enrich their lives,” said Felberbaum. “ This gesture of goodwill really separates us from other charities.”

The Probus Club organized and funds at least three activities for Kennedy Center clients: including the client dinner dance with a dj and a catered dinner, breakfast at a local diner, a summer picnic and other activities that clients request.

“One hundred percent of the money The Probus Club raises is used to support projects or is distributed to local organizations and agencies with programs to enhance the lives of people who are intellectually and physically challenged,” said Weissman.

“Nonprofits like The Kennedy Center are challenged by state funding cuts, especially over the past five years.  Generous donations are vital to our operation,” added East.  “We are fortunate to have an amazing donor like the Probus Club who not only provides us with monetary support but organizes so many wonderful activities for our clients.”   

The Kennedy Center, founded in 1951, is an internationally accredited, non-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that currently serves 2,400 individuals annually. The agency actively responds to the needs of the community by offering innovative, comprehensive service options to persons with disabilities and special needs, from birth to senior years. The Kennedy Center operates 30 community experience programs, 16 group homes, an industries program composed of six businesses, supported and competitive employment and job placement services, a family support and respite service, travel training, and a variety of children’s programs.  Visit thekennedycenterinc.org for more information.

Gary Felberbaum of Trumbull, co-president of the Probus Club of Greater Bridgeport, stands by the new 7-passenger van the Club donated to Kennedy Center clients who live at the Probus House in Bridgeport.

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President of the Board of Aldermen John Anglace, Joyce Donnelly, long-time member and past President of the Club, and Mayor Lauretti

The Olde Ripton Garden Club of Shelton will celebrate its 40th Anniversary of continued service to the Shelton community in 2016.  With the theme “Growing Together”, the Club plans a number of new projects this year in the City. One of these projects came in the form of an announcement and proclamation by theCity Board of Aldermen at their meeting on Thursday, Feb. 11 to designate the“Orange Coneflower” (Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm”) as the City of Shelton’s official flower.  The Club is encouraging residents and businesses to grow this flower in their gardens and around the City.

 The large, daisy-like flower is named for its orange-tinged petals in keeping with Shelton School’s colors.  It is easy to grow and can be grown in containers or naturalized in meadows and planted freely around homes.  The Orange Coneflower, also known as “Black-Eyed Susan”, is a native plant that will grow readily in our area and is a perennial assuring that it will return to our gardens year after year.  It is attractive to birds, bees and many pollinators that are needed for our gardens to thrive; it blooms from midsummer through the fall; and provides a long season of color.

The Club will offer the plant for sale at its May 14 annual plant sale, come rain or shine, at St. Paul’s Church parking lot across from the Huntington Green.  All proceeds will go to the purchase of city flowers that will be planted in the gardens maintained by the club at many locations throughout Shelton including the libraries, the green, and the Community Center where the focus this summer will be on developing pollinator gardens in our community.

The Club is also planning a first-time ever Garden Tour in July where the city flower will also be featured. Displays of garden club memorabilia will be set-up around town.

The Olde Ripton Garden Club was organized and federated in 1976 by a handful of enthusiastic gardeners to encourage the betterment of the community through projects that beautify our neighborhoods and protect our natural resources.  The club is proud to still have founding members of the Club participating today.

Anytime the city needs beautification, the Olde Ripton Garden Club has provided that service to make Shelton more beautiful.  The club members work together to either grow or buy flowers, or arrange them to be donated.  They also donate their time planning, planting and watering the gardens around Shelton and have been providing those services to the community for 40 years.

Today the Club has approximately 45 active volunteers who participate on committees of their choice such as working on community gardens, decorating the Osborndale Museum for the holidays, making fresh evergreen wreaths for public places for the holidays, and a garden therapy program for an assisted living community.  The Club also provides a High School Scholarship annually to a Shelton High student planning to study a related field.

Meetings are held monthly (except January and February) on the first Monday of the month at the Plumb Memorial Library.  Each meeting features lively guest speakers, a garden-themed program as well as horticulture and artistic floral displays plus a festive pot-luck lunch.

For more information, visit www.OldeRiptonGardenClub. or call Renee Protomastro at 203-775-6645 or Joyce Donnelly at 203-929-9988 for details about the anniversary programs.

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David Emberling Studio is hosting its second annual Pet Portrait Contest for the Connecticut Humane Society. Last year the contest raised more than 2,000 pounds of pet food for needy animals. This year funds will go to the Humane Society shelter in Westport.

To enter the contest, call the studio at 203-226-1836 to set up an appointment to have your pet photographed. Pet photo sessions are being scheduled March 5-18. The contest entry fee is $25 per animal, which will be donated to the Humane Society. There are no additional session fees. All entries must be photographed at David Emberling Studio for the contest. The Connecticut Humane Society will receive all of the donation money.

The contest is open to all domestic animals that can be photographed in studio, and will be judged by the staffs of the David Emberling Studio sponsors. All pets photographed will be seen in the 2017 ConnectiPets Calendar.

The contest is co-sponsored by area pet related businesses, such as: South Wilton Veterinary Center in Wilton, Natural Pet Outlet in Black Rock, Southport Veterinary Center, Canine Company in Wilton, and the Pooch Hotel in Norwalk. There will be prizes for the winners. Additional businesses are being added to the list of sponsors. The grand prize winner will be featured on the cover of the calendar, and the owner will receive a Family Portrait Session and a framed wall portrait for a special portrait with the pet and his family.

A special price list will be available for those who wish to purchase portraits of their pets. David Emberling Studio is located at 103 Weston Road, Weston.

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Spooner House has begun their annual ‘No Freeze Program’ which is designed to keep the homeless off the streets at night during the winter. As temperatures continue to drop the homeless population’s need for warm shelter becomes that much more severe.

Beginning at 9 p.m, those who are seeking shelter can go to the shelter’s back door and will be admitted for the evening. All people will be admitted as long as they are not under the influence of any drugs and follow the center’s guidelines once allowed inside.

All guests have to leave at 6 a.m the following morning unless Governor Malloy activates the severe cold weather protocol, in which the shelter will act as a “warming center” where people can stay until the temperature increases.

The program will continue until March 31.

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