Dina Marks

One of Shelton’s very own has been recognized for educational excellence.

Lifelong Shelton resident and longtime local educator Dina Marks recently earned the 2019 Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year award.

Each year, applications are accepted for the Elementary, Middle, and High School Assistant Principal of the Year awards.

Marks, the assistant principal at Shelton Intermediate School (SIS), was chosen by the CAS Awards and Recognition Committee, a selection committee consisting of active and retired principals and assistant principals.

“I am proud to represent Shelton Intermediate School and our educational community,” said Marks, “and this award recognizes the dedication of all of our educators. It reflects the great work that happens every day in Shelton schools and in schools all over Connecticut.

“It is a honor to bring this home to Shelton,” said Marks, who was recognized for the honor during last month’s Shelton Board of Education meeting. “We have a great team. I’m proud to be just a little piece of a great leadership team and a great faculty.”

Nominated for the award by SIS Principal Kenneth Saranich, who said Marks is, at all times, energetically engaged in efforts to move the school forward.

“It is such a gift to have an assistant principal whom you can ask to perform any task, undertake any project or launch any initiative and you know it will be met with success,” said Saranich. “She keeps getting better and better; and the building gets better and better along with her.” Superintendent Christopher Clouet praised Marks’ ability to “balance the complexities of the work of today’s assistant principal.

“Dina is a resourceful and skillful problem-solver and a good strategic planner,” said Clouet. “She has it all — the technical skills, the knowledge of curriculum and instruction, and, most importantly, a deep love for kids.”

Marks has served the Shelton public schools and community for her entire professional career. Now in her ninth year as assistant principal of SIS, Saranich said Marks tackles her ever-increasing responsibilities with the same passion and energizing leadership which she brought to the position upon her appointment in 2009.

Marks said her personal mission is to make SIS the most positive place it can be, and she is always looking for ways to create a welcoming and cheerful school environment. People who visit SIS on any given Friday will see her mission brought to life. Her weekly “High-five Fridays” tradition, popular among the student body, buoys kids’ spirits and fills the hallways with an aura of celebration and joyfulness.

“SIS is my extended family, and I lead our school as I do my family, with compassion and caring,” said Marks.

And the positive effects of her warmth and goodwill are felt throughout the entire school community, according to language arts teacher Kristen Nigretti.

“Dina leads from a place of kindness,” said Nigretti. “We feel genuinely loved here. Everything she does comes from a genuine, sincere place in her heart.” Adds SIS parent Lisbeth Condo,

“Mrs. Marks can be firm and authoritative and students know she expects good behavior,” added SIS parent Lisbeth Condo. “But she is also soft and human.”

One of Marks’s proudest accomplishments is the creation of the Shelton Innovation School (SIS2), which she, Saranich, and a team of teachers built from the ground up. Now in its second year, SIS2 provides flexible scheduling, innovative instructional practices and personalized learning opportunities that address the diverse learning styles of students in the digital age.

The “school within a school” places an emphasis on preparing students to be thinkers, communicators and collaborators and focuses not on what students know but on what they can do with the knowledge they have gained.

Despite having transitioned into administration almost 10 years ago, Marks continues to spend significant time in classrooms. Whenever a faculty member needs classroom coverage, Saranich said Marks is always the first to volunteer, and, she plays a critical role in supporting new teachers at SIS. Thanks to her individual efforts and influence, Saranich said staff morale and retention among new teachers are at their highest levels.

“There is no better face for the assistant principalship than Dina Marks,” said Shelton High School Headmaster Dr. Beth Smith, adding that Marks is a warm, sincere and caring school leader with a strong work ethic and a transparent love for and devotion to her profession. “She is humble and she is authentic. It’s never about Dina. It’s about the work. It’s about the kids.”

Established in 1953, CAS is a non-profit organization working with Connecticut’s school leaders to improve elementary and secondary education in Connecticut. CAS’ core mission — to promote excellence in the education of all students — is achieved through advocacy, professional development, recognition and student programs. Affiliated with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Association for Middle Level Education, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and the National Federation of State High School Associations, CAS represents nearly 900 of the state’s public and parochial schools.

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Police have issued a Silver Alert for missing Shelton teen Joy Milano, 16. She is 5’7” and weighs 155 pounds and was last seen Dec. 12 wearing a gray speckled vest, black pants, a hat and a tan purse. Anyone with information is asked to contact Shelton Police at 203-924-1544.

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Police reported that the Shelton teen, 16-year-old Joy Milano, reported missing yesterday, was located last night and has returned home. A Silver Alert had been issued for Milano yesterday.

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Shelton Intermediate School has announced the first quarter high honors and honor rolls.

High honors

Katherine Abissi, Zayna Abraham, Isabelle Acervida, Emily Ahern, Angelina Alcaraz-Sim, Melina Amini, Carinna Anastasio, Isabella Anderson, Hannah Andrejczyk, Brianna Angiolillo, Julia Antoinette Arnaldo, Samantha Atkinson, Gianna Bacoulis, Skye Baklik, Lily Banks, Molly Bannon, Dylan Bauer, Jack Beauchemin, Cecilia Beaudoin, Kaitlyn Bergers, Isanet Berrios, Sarina Bialek, Amanda Billingslea, Joseph Bisson, Tiana Blakeslee, Michael Boccio, Olivia Branco, Sadie Brennan, Lindsey Brown, Morgan Bucherati, Christopher Buchetto, Sara Buglione, Jan Vincent Caccam, Rachel Camiglio, Christopher Capalbo, Shane Isaiah Cardoso, Patrick Carroll, Makayla Cavallaro, Nicholas Cebrik, Ava Champagne, Meena Chandir, Elizabeth Cleary, Emily Codere, Julia Collings, Kaylee Cooney, Sofia Couture, Ella Cristiano, John Cummings, Joshua Czaplinski, Ethan D’Addio, Matthew Darak, John Darmiento, Lexie D’Auria, Alexandra Davidson, Matthew Dean, Jennessa Delgado-Santiago, Katherine DeMartino, Christian deMelo, Marcus Desir, Dominic DiMauro, Joshua Dokla, Justin Dones, Erin Doyle, Dillon Durante, William Dwyer, Rose Dymerski, Sophia Fabian, Elizabeth Famurewa, Lexa Fernandes, Amelia Ferro, Gregory Fiscus, Kendyll Flamini, Ciara Foley, Ronald Foncello, Demetri Franzese, Patricia Fraser, Sabryne Freyler, Emma Gabriel, Harrison Garrett, Anisha Gera, Nicholas Gergely, Andrew Giacobbe, Andrew Giacobbe, Maya Giampaolo, Jake Gigliotti, Ella Gildea, Caitlin Gius, Jack Gloria, Jack Goode, Dylan Greekwood, Alexander Guerra, Mia Gura, Abby Gurski, Kayla Gzyms, Keeley Haughie, Joshua Hayes, Natasha Herrera, Albana Hima, Hannah Hluska, Selin Ho, Sena Ho, Courtney Holman, Benjamin Hoponick, Kaelyn Horn, Megan Hunyadi, Megan Hunyadi, Rebekkah Hurlbert, Josh Ilano, Sanjana Jain, Madeline Judge, Ryan Jurgiewicz, Ava Kavasansky, Sarah Kearns, Mohammed Khan, Simrin Khan, Jack Kieley, Kayla Kilincoglu, Dawn Kindle, Michael Kinik, Mykhaylo Kit, Adam Klein, Maya Komorowski, Thomas Kopec, Erin Kovarczi, Ireneusz Koziol, Alexandra Kuniej, Brielle Laferriere, Paden Larkins, Lia Leandres, Austin Leifer, Hannah Levine, Marisa Lia, Megan Loiacano, Grace Loiz, Sophie Lubis, Jack Mackniak, Amanda Madera, Daria Maggi, Jack Mainiero, Dante Mallozzi, Marissa Manzo, Kaelyn Martir, Jason Martorella, Lydia Masulli, Matthew Matuszewski, Hailey McKeon, Kate McPadden, Charles McSherry, Taylor Melanson, Ryan Miressi, Tara Mladsi, Joshua Molnar, Matthieu Moretti, Julia Mosher, Julianna Mourao, Dylan Moutinho, Charles Mozdzer, William Muir, Raul Nair, Aditi Nanjappa, Amy Naylor, Zainabu Ndikumana, Kate Neary, Kenny Nguyen, Paul Nguyen, Aidan O'Grady, Ethan Oko, Tommaso Onofrio, Jayden Opper, Jayden Opper, Taylor Ostrosky, Ryan Ouloul, Jake Pacacha, Luke Pacheco, Ryleigh Pagluiso, Madalyn Paige, Nikos Papanikolaou, Jordan Paris, Esther Park, Mary Pavliouk, Paul Pavliouk, Devyn Penna, Lucy Persson, Caitlin Pineau, Nicolas Piscioniere, Ella Platt, Olivia Plonski, Abigail Poplawski, Susan Porto, Julia Prancuk, Jazmyn Prieto, John Quevedo, Emilia Quito, Rachel Ravi, Joseph Reilly, Leyla Reinhardt, Benjamin Rhodes, Stacey Ritenour, Benjamin Robinson, Sean Roden, Mikhail Rodov, Nya Rodrigues, Elizabeth Rollinson, Monika Rudzinski, Rylee Russo, Joshua Rut, Hannah Sacoto, Matthew Sahagun, Elena Salluhi, Luke Sanborn, Jenna Santos, William Schiappa, Logan Sedlock, Isabella Serra, Nolan Sevillano, Lia Sheehy, Benjamin Sheldon, Justice Sheppard, Avery Shreders, Jennifer Sigrist, Diya Singh, Adam Sobh, Aurora Anne Sosa, Jaylan Spencer, Joseph Spinelli, Katie Splan, Lola Stoverchy, Matthew Sullivan, Kenneth Supersano, Julia Sutcliffe, Isabella Tamas, Zara Tariq, Kylee Taylor, Sara Taylor, Evan Tedesco, Alyssa Teixeira, Tyler Thielen, Inari Torres, Allison Tou, Angeline Tran, Timmy Tran, Brody Turnbull, Rebecca Turner, Gregory Uanino, Sophie Uanino, Laura Uhrynowski, Nadya Uyar, Brooke Vicarioli, Colin Viores, Sophia Vitynskyi, Arianna Viveiros, Ava Vojtek, Emma Walsh, Logan Weiss, Aiden Welch, Julia Wilkinson, Nikolaus Wirth, Jeffrey Wojtowicz, Miriam Wulff, Allison Wurms, Adrianna Wutke, Piper Yegidis, Michelle Yi, Emily Zaleski, Justin Zarra, Landon Zdru, Carly Zerella, Paul Zint and Ella Zoeller.

Honors

Michael Alberici, Leah Bailey, Diana Banks, Kayleigh Bartlett, Matthew Battaglino, Julia Battistelli, Nasser Bazile, Brendan Berardi, Matthew Boivin, Julianna Bojnec, Derek Bratz, Wilberte Brumaire, Noelle Burgess, Samuel Cacchillo, Frank Capite, Caleb Cavallaro, Jasmin Chiluisa, Briana Cotto, John De Camps, Carmella DeFeo, Benjamin DeMartino, Thomas DeRosa, Tyler DeSousa, Sofia DeVellis, Ryan DeVito, Nicholas Dicocco, Jack DiLieto, Kallie Dipollina, Madison Donnelly, Jessica Duarte, Nathan Eckert, Amanda Esteves, Brooke Fabian, Sophia Fede, Enrico Feola, Santino Ferrante, Andrew Flamini, Alexandra Gencarelli, Joseph Giliotti, Evan Gilmore, Anthony Ginorio, Jordan Goodman, Michael Graham, Isabelle Griffith, Scarlet Hajducky, Shawntel Hanley, Tanya Heltzel, Timothy Hilser, Sean Hollis, Madalynn Iemolo, Noah Jackson, Kaija Jenkins, Jackson Jones, Andreia Jorge, Raisa Karim, Mohammed Khan, James Killian, Jack Kilmartin, Jason Kim, Eleni Kydes, Liliana Lombardi, Ilaina Macari, Madison Maida, Olivia Marino, Mateos Martins, Rean Mason, Lillian May, James McGrath, Connor McGuire, Jenna McGuire, Claire McNeil, Nahjayiah Munoz, McBenedict Mweze, Annika Nagy, Elijah Nastu, Arian Naxhaku, Mia Novais, Nadeen Osman, Nicholas Palumbo, Jason Pastiva, Ryan Pastiva, Reeya Patel, Gabriella Perry, Luke Petrocelli, Matthew Petruccelli, Jakub Piascik, Xiomara Pierre, Thomas Pires, Jane Platt, Aidan Plavecki, Gael Quiroga, Tyler Radzion, Nathaniel Ramos, Anastasia Reilly, Ana-Julia Reinheimer, Molly Renz, Gabrielly Ribeiro, Ryan Rigoli, Yaralex Roque, Jasmine Rossetti, Natalia Rydzik, Jack Ryon, Benjamin Sanchez, Charles Santa, Gianna Schirizzo, Maja Shallow, Samantha Smalick, Seungmin Sohn, Cameron St. Pierre, Victoria Stawiarski, Owen Stevens, Alyssa Teixeira, Rose Thomas, Brady Tommasi, April Torres, Justine Turcotte, Palina Vialichka, Emily Wallace, Theresa Weissenberg, Ryan Welsh, Gabriel West, William Woods, Joseph Yearsley, Jake Zaccagnini, Gabriel Zamani and Jessica Ziegler.

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Pancheros in Shelton is hosting a “Queso for a Cause” fundraising event Tuesday, Dec. 18, in support of the Valley United Way.

From 2 to 8 p.m., the restaurant will be donating all proceeds from the sales of chips and queso, chips and guacamole, as well as extra queso, meat and guacamole to the Valley United Way, which funds and supports many local initiatives and nonprofits that offer human, health and youth services to those in need living in Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton.

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Shelton High School students — with the help of some star power — collected more than 600 toys and more than $500 at the Stuff-A-Bus event on Wednesday, Dec. 12.

High school sophomore Faith Tremblay and her mother, in conjunction with the Shelton High cheerleaders, scheduled the Stuff-a-Bus event for her community service project. People came and dropped toys and money, which will be delivered to the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital Toy Closet Monday afternoon.

Among the special guests at the donation event was KC101 afternoon DJ Adam Rivers and 2015 American Idol winner Nick Fradiani as well as News Channel 8 traffic reporter Alyssa Taglia and Miss CT 2018 Bridget Oei. The bus was donated by Durham.

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Ruth Alice Luoma

Ruth Alice Luoma was born at 9:47 p.m. on Nov. 29 at Yale New Haven Hospital. At birth, she was 7 pounds 14 ounces and 20 1/2 inches long. Her parents are Jeffrey and Elizabeth Luoma of North Haven. Maternal grandparents are Stephen and Helen Morse of Shelton. Paternal grandparents are Wayne and Barbara Luoma of Madison, N.H. Ruth joins brother James, 2, at home.

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The Long Hill School chorus regaled fellow students, family and friends with some classics at the school’s annual winter holiday concert last Wednesday. The fourth graders, under the guidance of longtime music teacher Nancy Adams, sang six songs before asking parents, students and faculty to join in singing along to holiday favorites, such as Jungle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman. — Brian Gioiele photos

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Firefighters extricated an individual from this motor vehicle accident Sunday. — Photos courtesy of Echo Hose Co. 1

Firefighters had to extricate an individual from a vehicle that had struck a pole on Coram Avenue at Myrtle Street this morning.

According its Facebook page, Echo Hose Company 1 was dispatched about 11:30 a.m. to the scene of a reported motor vehicle accident with possible injuries. Squad 1 arrived to find a car had struck a pole with one occupant still inside the vehicle.

Firefighters determined that the drivers side door needed to be removed to free the occupant. Crews removed the door and assisted EMS with removing the individual.

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With families planning to visit its toy shop this week, TEAM, Inc. is still seeking toy donations  for children ages 0 to 12.

Toys can be dropped off between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the TEAM Toys 4 Kids Toy Shop, located in the Echo Hose Ambulance Community Training Center — which is in the former St. Joseph School on Coram Avenue. The toy store is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

TEAM’s Toys 4 Kids collects new, unwrapped toys during November and December each year and distributes those toys as holiday gifts to needy children in the community. The success of the program relies on the massive volunteer support as well as the large amount of toys donated each year. Each year with the help of the community, TEAM supplies toys to more than 1,700 children.

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Four Shelton students received high marks last week.

Shelton Intermediate School (SIS) students Emily Codere and Benjamin Robinson and Shelton High School students Cristina Chirsky and Clayton O”Brien each named Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) Award of Excellence winners. The foursome were honored at a regional ceremony Thursday at Grassy Hills Country Club in Orange.

“These four students make Shelton shine a little brighter,” said school Superintendent Dr. Chris Clouet.

The CAPSS Superintendent’s Student Award Recognition Program is designed to be a meaningful superintendent-to-student link, and to provide positive public awareness of the role of the local and chief school administrator.

Clouet said teachers offer recommendations to their respective principals, who, after sorting through the collection of highly qualified students, then brings their choices to his desk.

“We have so many incredibly strong students here, but these four really offered a mix of strong educational achievements, hard working and contribute to their school and the community,” said the superintendent.

In her bio sheet, Chirsky was described as “driven by her desire to influence the social environment and culture of our school and community in positive ways.”

Chirsky is serving as co-president of the Student Council this year as well as communications leader of the Valley United Way High School Volunteer Council, a member of FBLA, an AP scholar and an Honor Society inductee.

“Cristina embodies what it means to give back to school and community,” stated her bio. “She possesses all the best qualities of a student and responsible citizen.”

O’Brien, a four-year high school lacrosse player, has served as Shelton High class president and has been an active member of the Navy Sea Cadet Program since fifth grade and hopes to attend Annapolis. He is also completing certification as an emergency medical technician.

“Clayton personifies a hard work ethic and one who gives back to his school and community,” stated his bio.

Codere is an honor roll student and Student of the Year recipient. She represents SIS as a student ambassador, is an accomplished clarinet player for the Viking and jazz bands, captain of the cross country team, and a member of the track team. Codere also placed fourth in the school’s American Legion Oratorical Contest, and she reached the state competition for the Invention Convention.

She is also a youth soccer referee, participates in advanced karate class — where she also serves as an assistant teacher — and is a Bronze Award recipient in Girls Scouts.

“Emily is a positive role model,” stated the bio, adding that she has “proven her ability to set academic  goals, as well as work independently and cooperatively with her classmates.”

Robinson is an honor roll student who has earned student of the month and student of the year honors as well as an award for academic excellence in language arts. He has been a member of the SIS Viking and jazz bands for the past two years.

Robinson also volunteers time at church events and plays youth baseball.

“He has proven to be a responsible leader both in his community and amongst his peers,” according to his bio.

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School Superintendent Dr. Chris Clouet, Tina Genova and Ken Saranich offering their congratulations to a newly naturalized citizen.

Shelton Intermediate School transformed its auditorium into a federal courthouse on Nov. 9 for the purpose of naturalizing 60 new U.S. citizens.  

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service presented these individuals to the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut. The Honorable Robert M. Spector, U.S. Magistrate Judge presided over two ceremonies that were witnessed by Intermediate School students along with a group of high school students.

School Superintendent Dr. Chris Clouet and Shelton Intermediate School Principal Ken Saranich welcomed the citizenship candidates and their guests prior to the National Anthem performed by SIS band students Isabelle Acervida, Greg Uanino and Lily Banks.

SIS Student Council President Angelo Posacreta led the applicants in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

“We are so excited and honored to bring this wonderful opportunity back to our students and staff at Shelton Intermediate School,” Saranich said. “Having this ceremony teaches our students to truly appreciate what our nation offers us.”

SIS Science Curriculum Leader Ernestina Genova served as the keynote speaker for the ceremonies by sharing her personal experiences as an immigrant from the Cape Verde Islands.

“Re-telling my story is a very emotional experience for me,” Genova said. “Each time I share my story publicly, I can feel the surge of emotions and I try to fight back the tears. Not because my story is sad, but rather because it’s an immense source of pride for my Cape Verdean heritage and a great appreciation for the sacrifices my parents made to help give my siblings and me a better life. Without their hard work and encouragement to take advantage of the countless opportunities in the United States, we would not be living the lives we live today. I will be forever indebted to my parents. My experiences as an immigrant has had a significant influence on the person who I am today.”

The event was highlighted by Spector administering the Oath of Allegiance to the naturalized citizens and offering his congratulations and words of encouragement to them and their families. In this unique, educational experience, Spector met with the attending high school students to answer many of their questions related to the naturalization process.

According the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon foreign citizens or nationals after fulfilling the requirements established by Congress. After naturalization, foreign-born citizens enjoy nearly all the same benefits, rights and responsibilities that the Constitution gives to native-born U.S. citizens, including the right to vote.”

Through the work of Valley Regional Adult Education and SIS Social Studies Department, this was the second time in three years that Shelton Intermediate School hosted naturalization ceremonies.

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Echo Hose Ambulance responded to 429 emergency calls during the month of November.

EMT classes

Ambulance personnel also announced its 2019 EMT class schedule:

• First class will run Jan. 12 through April 27 — All Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Second class will run Jan. 7 through April 17 — Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 10 p.m.
• Third class will run Feb. 5 through May 16 — Tuesdays and Thursdays 6 to 10 p.m.
• Fourth class will run June 4 through Aug. 22 — Weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon.

Echo Hose Ambulance is located at 100 Meadow St. For more information, call 203-924-5500. To register for classes, visit http://www.echohose.com/. Classes will be held at the Echo Hose Ambulance Community Educational Center located at the former St. Joseph’s School, 430 Coram Ave.

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The Shelton Volunteer Fire Department responded to the following incidents between Dec. 3 and Dec. 10, as submitted by the fire marshal’s office:

Monday, Dec. 3

At 8:35 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to the municipal parking lot on Cornell Street for a report of smoke coming from a parked vehicle. There was no fire. Steam coming from the vehicle was mistaken for smoke. A unit responded.

At 2:10 p.m., the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to 190 Kyles Way for a public service call. An engine responded.

Tuesday, Dec. 4

At 3:10 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Huntington Co. #3 responded to route 8 northbound entrance ramp at exit 14 for a motor vehicle accident. An engine and a rescue pumper responded.

Wednesday, Dec. 5

At 10:57 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to Porky’s Café, 50 Center St., for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. An engine responded.

At 4:41 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to 102 Grove St. to assist EMS with a patient who has fallen thru a roof and was trapped in an attic area. A utility truck and a tower truck responded.

Thursday, Dec. 6

At 5:26 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to 500 Howe Ave. for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. A unit responded.

At 8 a.m., the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to the Citgo Station, 442 River Road, for a public service; lockout. A utility truck responded.

At 1:35 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to 53 Basking Ridge Road for a carbon monoxide alarm activation. An engine responded.

At 3:09 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to 16 Valley Road for a person stuck in a residential elevator. A rescue truck responded.

At 4:59 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3, White Hills Co. #5 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to 11 Elizabeth St. for smoke in the house. There was no fire. A closed flue on a fireplace in use caused the smoke. Two engines, a rescue pumper and a ladder truck responded.

At 6:25 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to 86 New Street for a carbon monoxide alarm activation. An engine and a tower truck responded.

Friday, Dec. 7

At 2:13 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1, Pine Rock Co. #4 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to the Cedar Grove Condominiums, 17 Coram Road, for a structure fire. Upon arrival firefighters found an active fire in the second floor of unit #5D. The occupant of the was safely out of the unit. A pet cat was safely removed. Firefighters extinguished the fire that caused extensive damage to the second floor of the unit. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the fire marshal’s office. One engine, one rescue pumper, a ladder truck and a tower truck responded.

Saturday, Dec. 8

At 10:12 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to 50 Waterview Drive for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. An engine and a tower truck responded.

At 8:52 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 responded to a mutual aid call to the Nichols Fire Department, 100 Shelton Road, Trumbull. An engine responded.

At 5:34 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1, Pine Rock Co. #4 and the Huntington Fire Co. #3 responded to Talalay Global, 510 River Road, for a fire alarm activation. Upon arrival firefighters found the alarm was due to an over pressure of a CO2 tank. The leak was secured without incident. The Derby Hazmat Unit was requested for assistance. An engine and a tower truck responded from Shelton.

At 5:35 p.m., the White Hills Co. #5 and the Huntington Fire Co. #3 responded to a brush fire on Leavenworth Road at the Monroe town line. An engine and a brush truck responded.

At 7:44 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1, Pine Rock Co. #4 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to Hewitt Memorial Hospital, 45 Maltby St., for a report of an odor of smoke in the building. There was no fire or odor found by firefighters. An engine, ladder truck and the tower truck responded.

Sunday, Dec. 9

At 11:40 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to 35 Richards Blvd. for a public service; lock-out. A utility truck responded.

Monday, Dec. 10

At 3:48 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to 137 Howe Ave. to assist EMS. An engine responded.

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Humphrey named to IFA board

The International Franchise Association (IFA), the oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide, has announced that Shelton resident David Humphrey will join its board of directors in February. In the U.S. alone, there are more than 733,000 franchise establishments providing 7.6 million jobs. Humphrey is CEO of ECP-PF Holdings Group, which operates 76 franchised Planet Fitness gyms across the U.S. and Canada, including 21 in Connecticut. He was previously CEO of Massage Envy, the world’s largest spa chain, and currently serves as chairman of Massage Heights Franchising, a family-owned franchisor with 140 locations in North America.

Kijonka earns promotion

Samantha Kijonka, CPA, has been promoted to the position of supervisor in the accounting and auditing department at DHL&S CPAs and Advisors.  Kijonka received a bachelor of science degree in accounting/business administration magna cum laude from Western Connecticut State University in May 2013. Kijonka has been with the firm since 2013. DHL&S CPAs and Advisors has offices in Shelton.

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The American Red Cross urgently needs blood and platelet donors to make an appointment now to give and help ensure patients can get the treatment they need at a moment’s notice.

In November 2016, a 100-foot maple tree fell on Mike McMahon, causing life-threatening injuries. He needed 11 units of blood during emergency surgery and another seven units to treat complications after. Six weeks following the accident, McMahon was released from the hospital — just in time to spend the holidays with his family.

“I’m grateful for the donors who gave me such an amazing gift — the gift of life,” said McMahon. “I was an occasional blood donor before the accident. Today, I donate as often as I can to help ensure others receive blood when they need it most.”

Now is an important time to give blood and platelets. A seasonal decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors get busy with family gatherings and travel. In addition, severe winter weather can cause blood drive cancellations and negatively affect the blood supply. Patients like McMahon can’t afford for there to be a shortage of blood.

Give the gift of life — make an appointment to donate blood and platelets by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a special thank-you for helping meet the urgent need, those who come to give Dec. 20 through Jan. 6 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Fairfield County Dec. 20-Jan. 15:

• Bethel — Jan. 4, 1:30-6:30 p.m., Walnut Hill Community Church, 156 Walnut Hill Rd.
• Bridgeport — Jan. 9, 1-6:15 p.m., Burroughs Community Center, 2470 Fairfield Avenue; Jan. 15, 1-6 p.m., Mount Aery Baptist Church, 73 Frank Street
• Brookfield — Dec. 26, 1:30-6:30 p.m., Brookfield Library, 182 Whisconier Road; Dec. 31, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Congregational Church of Brookfield, 160 Whisconier Road
• Danbury — Dec. 20, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Danbury Hospital RSM, 24 Hospital Avenue; Dec. 24, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church, 18 Clapboard Ridge Rd.; Dec. 28, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., The Crowne Plaza, 18 Old Ridgebury Road; Dec. 31, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 119 Mill Plain Road; Jan. 7, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Danbury Hospital RSM, 24 Hospital Avenue; Jan. 15, 1:30-6:30 p.m., Gethsemane Baptist Church International, Gethsemane Baptist Church International, 8 Delay Street
• East Norwalk — Jan. 9, 1-6 p.m., East Norwalk Library, 51 Van Zant Street
• Fairfield — Dec. 29, 8 a.m.-1:15 p.m., Trinity St. Michael’s Church, 554 Tunxis Hill Road; Jan. 11, 1-6:45 p.m., Grace United Methodist Church, 1089 Fairfield Woods Road
• Monroe — Dec. 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dunkin Donuts / Baskin Robbins, 135 Main Street
• New Canaan — Jan. 8, 1-6:30 p.m., Saint Mark’s Church, 111 Oenoke Ridge Road
• New Fairfield — Jan. 11, 1:30-6:30 p.m., New Fairfield Congregational Church, 20 Gillotti Road
• Newtown — Dec. 27, 1-6 p.m., Newtown Municipal, 3 Primrose Street; Jan. 8, 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West St.
• Norwalk — Dec. 20, 11:45 a.m.-5:45 p.m., Walgreens, 55 Westport Avenue; Dec. 23, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Temple Shalom, 259 Richards Street; Jan. 8, 1-6 p.m., Autumn Lake Healthcare at Norwalk, 34 Midrocks Drive
• Ridgefield — Jan. 3, 1:30-6:30 p.m., Ridgefield Park & Recreation Center, 195 Danbury Rd.
• Shelton — Dec. 24, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Hewitt Health & Rehab Center, 45 Maltby Street; Jan. 2, 8 a.m.-1:45 p.m., R.D. Scinto Towers, 2 Corporate Drive
• Sherman — Jan. 12, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sherman Volunteer Fire Department, 1 CT 39
• Stamford — Dec. 22, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Tully Health Center, 32 Strawberry Hill Court; Dec. 29, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Tully Health Center, 32 Strawberry Hill Court; Dec. 31, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Tully Health Center, 32 Strawberry Hill Court; Jan. 12, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Tully Health Center, 32 Strawberry Hill Court
• Stratford — Dec. 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Ryders Partners, LLC, 88 Ryders Lane, Suite 208; Dec. 21, 1:45 p.m.-7 p.m., Baldwin Senior Center, 1000 West Broad Street; Dec. 28, 1-6 p.m., YMCA Stratford, 3045 Main Street
• Trumbull — Dec. 22, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Theresa Parish, 5301 Main Street; Dec. 26, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., St. Joseph’s Center, 6448 Main Street; Jan. 4, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Insports Centers, 29 Trefoil Drive; Jan. 10, 1:30-6:30 p.m., St. Joseph’s Center, 6448 Main Street; Jan. 14, 1:30-6:30 p.m., Grace Episcopal Church, 5958 Main Street
• Wilton — Dec. 20, 1-6:30 p.m., Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Rd.

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A proposal to build a 30-unit apartment building at Old Bridgeport Avenue and Sunwood Drive appears headed for denial, mainly due to density and traffic concerns.

The Planning & Zoning Commission reached an unanimous consensus to oppose the project by GNK LLC at the Dec. 11 meeting. A consensus is when P&Z members indicate how they will vote on an application in the future.

The apartment building would be built on land on the right side of the road, with this photo taken from Old Bridgeport Avenue looking down Sunwood Drive.

Member James Tickey said the proposed development is “a traffic generator” that would worsen nearby intersections on Bridgeport Avenue and have “a negative impact on nearby residents.”

“I believe it’s too dense,” said member Charles Kelly, pointing out there’s really only about an acre to work with due to an existing private road on the land and wetlands.

“That’s kind of ridiculous,” Kelly said of putting 30 units and a 63-space parking lot on the usable land.

Kelly noted a nearby apartment complex, approved by the P&Z but not built yet due to a legal challenge, has slightly fewer units on three acres.

The developer has applied to create a Planned Development District (PDD) to build a three-story building on a 1.9-acre parcel at 301 Old Bridgeport Avenue. The property previously housed a childcare center.

Old Bridgeport Avenue runs parallel to Bridgeport Avenue between the D’Addario auto dealership and the Wiffle Ball factory. The apartment entrance would actually be on Sunwood Drive, a private road off Old Bridgeport Avenue that leads to the Sunwood Condominiums.

Many condo residents spoke against the project during the application process, fearing more drivers would use the condo as a cut-through to reach Nells Rock Road. They also highlighted existing traffic congestion near Route 8’s Exit 13 interchange on Bridgeport Avenue.

Member Mark Widomski called the proposal “way too dense,” saying it could hurt nearby property values and the interests of people now living in the immediate area.

Widomski said traffic delays would  be increasing on Bridgeport Avenue due to other approved developments in the vicinity, including the massive Shelter Ridge retail, office and apartment complex. “We’re overloading that intersection,” he said of the Route 8 interchange.

Member Anthony Pogoda said existing traffic problems would be “exacerbated” and the Sunwood Condominiums shouldn’t have to consider installing an entrance gate because of a nearby development.

Pogoda also said the developer’s plan to put up signs to try to prevent vehicles from going through the condo complex wouldn’t work because drivers routinely ignore such signs.

City land-use consultant Anthony Panico said based on the property’s current Restricted Business District (RBD) zone, P&Z members should consider what else might be built at the site and the potential impact compared to 30 apartment units.

But members said they had strong feelings and would deal with another proposal when appropriate in the future.

“We’re discussing what’s on the table now,” Pogoda said.

The RBD zone would allow multi-family housing, offices, small manufacturing, limited retail, a restaurant, gas station and utility facilities, although Panico said some of those uses aren’t realistic.

Chairman Virginia Harger said while some of the possible RBD uses would “be a lot worse,” she wasn’t comfortable with the apartment proposal due to the high number of units being proposed.

“The applicant really needs to consider this number of units,” said Harger, in comments echoed by a few other members. They said a plan with fewer living units might be acceptable.

Member Elaine Matto said she doesn’t understand why the developer wants to change the zoning to a PDD rather than pursue housing as allowed under the RBD zone, but suspects a RBD requirement for more parking might be one reason.

Matto said Sunwood residents have “legitimate concerns” involving traffic and the safety of walkers inside the condo complex.

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EAO Corp., left to right, Dan DiGioia, marketing manager; Joe Torzillo, VP sales HMI Components; Kate Pikosky, VP finance; Jim Valentino, president North America; John Pannone, VP sales HMI Systems. Photo courtesy of Fred Oroli Photography

EAO, the expert partner for innovative, intuitive and reliable Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), this week announced that it has received the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 Innovation Award.

The award recognizes companies throughout the chamber’s region who are leaders and provide innovation, job growth and stimulate the economy.

“This award is testament to EAO’s commitment to fostering innovation and growing manufacturing here in North America,” said Jim Valentino, president, EAO Corp., North America.

“EAO has a long and proud history of developing new technologies and solutions that solve our client’s complex HMI challenges,” added Valentino. “I am honored to accept this award on behalf of everyone at EAO for their dedication to continually transform ideas into products that revolutionize the interaction between humans and machines.”

Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell said EAO is a leading manufacturer of HMI components and systems, but more importantly, is a company that continues to innovate its business.

“The company is a pillar of our business community here in Shelton,” added Purcell, “and the chamber is pleased to present the company with the 2018 Innovation Award.”

EAO Corp. recently celebrated its 40th anniversary of its North American headquarters, located in Shelton. As a solutions-focused partner, EAO provides a range of local engineering and manufacturing capabilities to maximize domestic content requirements to support North American industries. By doing so, the company helps their customer base meet the requirements for the U.S. manufactured “Buy America” initiative.

In early 2018, EAO’s North American operations earned International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 certification.

EAO’s North American capabilities include:

• HMI product expertise
• Design engineering from concept through production
• Manufacturer of assemblies and subassemblies
• CAD/CAM/CAE and PCB design
• Interface protocols: CANbus, PROFIBUS, etc…
• Rapid prototyping, 3D printing, additive manufacturing
• Various marking, printing, and engraving techniques
• Automated wire processing, labelling, harnessing
• IPC/J-STD certified soldering, termination, inspection
• ISO 9001:2015, Buy America compliance

EAO is a Swiss-based company with its worldwide headquarters in Olten, Switzerland. For more information, visit www.eao.com or contact EAO at 203-951-4600.

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The Board of Aldermen approved a measure at its Thursday, Dec. 13, meeting to install vehicle exhaust removal systems at all city fire stations.

This appropriation was submitted by Aldermen Executive Vice President Eric McPherson and approved unanimously by the board. The systems will cost a total of $168,000, but most of the funding is provided by a grant the city received from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant program.

The city’s total expenditure for the project will be $22,175, which includes $16,300 required as a FEMA matching grant contribution. An additional $5,875 is needed for work not included in the FEMA grant application, but nonetheless necessary for the project’s completion.

“This represents outstanding work by our grant writers and the Fire Department,” said Board of Aldermen President John Anglace. “This system ensures that engine exhaust in the garages will go out the door and not stay inside the building.”

As such, Anglace noted, the system ensures the safety of Shelton firefighters.

“Our share of the project is 13 percent,” Anglace added. “That’s a heckuva good deal for the city.”

Student essay takes honors

Board members were particularly pleased when a local student, Mallory Doyle, took top honors in the middle-school category in a national essay contest. Doyle is an eighth grader at Trinity Catholic Academy and her winning essay was part of Constituting America’s “We Are the Future” contest.

Constituting America is a nonprofit organization founded by actress Janine Turner that educates Americans about the U.S. Constitution. In her essay Doyle praised the city of Shelton for having a small government that cares about its residents and responds quickly to their needs.

As a contest winner, Doyle received a $1,000 scholarship. She also traveled to Austin, Texas, where the award ceremony took place.

“I’d like to congratulate Mallory and read her essay into our minutes,” said Anglace. “I’m sure she didn’t expect that, but her essay is remarkable and I wanted to share it with everyone.”

Other business

The Board of Aldermen also unanimously approved a cost overrun of $500 in a project to install fencing at the corner of White Street and Coram Avenue, adjacent to the Echo Hose firehouse. This project was added to the city’s Capital Improvement Plan at the board’s Oct. 11 meeting, with $4,700 in funding from the state-level Local Capital Improvement Program (LOCIP).

“This is a quote revision due to the extension of time from the approval of project to the commencement of project,” said Anglace.

Among other business, the Board of Aldermen approved tax refunds totaling $10,522.71 to various city residents, which were announced in a recent report by the city’s tax collector. It also approved the payment of $990 to Corporation Counsel Teodosio Stanek, LLC, and $839.50 to Assistant Corporation Counsel Thomas Galvin Cotter, both for legal services.

The board also approved the following reappointments to the city’s Board of Ethics — Dr. Jeff Forte (D), whose term expires in September of 2020; Kenneth Olin (R), whose term expires in February 2021; and Frank Carroll (D), whose term expires in May of 2021.

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The Darien Times, part of the Hearst Communication Media Group, recently submitted a series of questions to Connecticut’s governor-elect, Ned Lamont, and he responded this week. Below are our questions and his answers, published unedited. We covered topics such as tolls, school district aid, and making the state business friendly and more unified geographically and politically.

DT: Can you explain what you agree with or disagree with Dan Malloy’s approach to state leadership?

NL: We are very different people and we will be very different governors.

DT: How do you expect to unify and make the state successful?

NL: The Connecticut I know is one where people are united by our basic values: we want good jobs with fair wages, access to affordable, high-quality health care, homes that we can afford, and a brighter future for all of our children. The best way to achieve these goals is to revitalize our economy and restart job growth. Labor and business, cities and suburbs, Republicans and Democrats – we’re all in this together. I’ve brought people together throughout my career in business, and I’ll do it again as Governor.

DT: What is your viewpoint on wealthier vs. lower income school districts in terms of state aid? Do you feel all students deserve the same rights? Do you feel median income determines what communities can afford?

NL: Every child in Connecticut deserves a high-quality public education. Unfortunately, our state has not met this commitment to our children. As a result, Connecticut has one of the largest achievement gaps between children of different socioeconomic backgrounds of any state in the country, lagging far behind peer states with similar student populations. That’s not just morally unacceptable — it’s an impediment to revitalizing Connecticut’s economy and bringing broadly-shared prosperity to our state. State education funding needs to be predictable, sustainable, and sufficient to provide an excellent public education to children in all of our communities. Resolving our fiscal crisis so that we can sustainably finance investments in our public schools is my number one priority as governor.

DT: What is your viewpoint on affordable housing in Connecticut?

NL: Connecticut’s challenge is to preserve what makes our towns such great places to call home, while ensuring that sky-high housing prices don’t keep young people, new entrepreneurs, and working families locked out of success in our state. My administration will work with local leaders around the state to encourage the responsible development of a wide range of housing options in every community. Business leaders have made clear to me that when their companies consider moving to or away from Connecticut, one of their primary concerns is whether their employees will be able to afford a nearby home.

DT: Fairfield County residents feel disenfranchised. The state is very different income wise. I understand it is difficult to juggle different areas and demographics. How do you plan on doing so?

NL: Our 169 cities and towns are diverse. As governor, my door will be open to all of them — and I’ll be on the road just as I was on the campaign trail, meeting people in their communities and learning from local leaders about local needs. I’ve lived in Fairfield County for four decades. I know the local issues well and understand that every region of our state makes important contributions and has unique needs. As governor, I will be attentive to our state’s diversity while ensuring every city and town is respected and represented in Hartford.

DT: In terms of tax increases, statewide tax and tolls, what can you say to make those who think they need to move out of state feel comfortable staying? Can you explain your plan?

NL: While there is a lot of work to be done to improve our state’s economy and to stabilize our budget, Connecticut remains the state with the best quality-of-life anywhere in our country. That’s why I’m proud to be Connecticut’s next governor.

I will work hard every day to resolve our state’s long-term fiscal crisis and help grow the economy, and I hope that all of our residents can partner with us as we make these hard decisions. I won’t be able to turn Connecticut around in one year or one budget. But I will give the state a roadmap to fiscal stability and economic growth — one that families, towns, and businesses can plan around. By making the hard decisions, I know that we can reinvest in our communities and in our state and continue to improve our strong quality-of-life.

Our state’s fiscal crisis has meant higher taxes, fewer jobs, and less population growth. We’ve spent year after year paying for the mistakes of our past, compounding those errors in the present, and failing as a result to invest in our future. I won’t accept more of the same. My first budget will be responsibly balanced, without relying on gimmicks or short-term patches. It will preserve our ability to make critical investments in education and infrastructure, while holding the line on taxes.

DT: How are you trying to make Connecticut a business friendly state?

NL: I’ll be the first Connecticut governor in decades who has started up and run a business – so I come into office with a fundamentally different perspective than my predecessors. Revitalizing Connecticut’s economy starts with the tone from the top. I’ve been engaging our state’s business leaders on the campaign trail and during my gubernatorial transition, and will continue to have a robust dialogue with the business community as governor. From there, I have plans to reduce or eliminate the business taxes and regulations that make Connecticut uncompetitive with our neighbors, and to aggressively campaign to recruit and retain vibrant businesses in Connecticut.

DT: How do you console those concerned about tolls impacting their lives and businesses?

NL: We can’t have a 21st century economy with a deficient 20th century transportation system: we must improve the roads and bridges that people rely on to get to work and that businesses depend on to move goods throughout the state. Moving Connecticut forward requires better infrastructure that reliably connects Connecticut’s communities to each other, the region and the world. That is why my plan levies electronic tolls on heavy trucks, which cause disproportionate damage to our roads without paying their fair share for upkeep and improvements. I voted for this year’s constitutional amendment to end the raiding of our transportation fund, and will be committed to state budgets that don’t drain investments in our infrastructure to patch over deficits.

DT: Do you plan to encourage Fairfield County state reps to make sure that their communities’ voices are heard, even if they share two communities that are very different demographics?

NL: No matter where they live, residents of Connecticut all want leaders who will fight for decent jobs that can support our families, build a better life for our children, and secure our futures in retirement. As governor, my first priority will be resolving Connecticut’s fiscal crisis so that we can make critical investments in education, infrastructure, and workforce development. I will work with every state legislator to help us build that future together, and my door will always be open to representatives of every community in our state.

DT:  Fundamentally, as a Fairfield County paper, the thing I hear most is that the state government is happy and eager to take their money but disinterested in their concerns or problems. Do you plan on addressing that or fixing that as a Fairfield County resident?

NL: I’ve lived in Fairfield County for four decades; Annie and I raised our kids here. I have a clear understanding of the issues important to the families and communities in this area of the state. As governor, I will serve every community in Connecticut.

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