The P&Z agreed to move a property border slightly due to below-ground contamination on the parcel that includes the Gulf station, Scooter’s Deli Mart and Wendy’s. The change impacted the median area with the shrubs and “No Left Turn” sign shown to the right of the gas pumps. — Brad Durrell photo

The Planning & Zoning Commission has approved a request to make minor adjustments to the borders of three commercial lots so soil contamination is limited to just one of the properties.

The contamination is primarily on a 1.8-acre parcel that includes the Wendy’s fast-food restaurant, Gulf gas station and Scooter’s Deli Mart at 484 Bridgeport Ave.

Joe Rocco, a part owner of Crown Point Center, explains the need to shift property lines due to minor contamination at the site. — Brad Durrell photo

But some contamination on the southern edge has “spilled over” to an abutting property owned by the same entity, according to Caleb Scheetz, senior project manager with Fuss & O’Neill, an engineering and environmental firm.

The P&Z voted unanimously Dec. 11 to move the lot lines by about nine feet, based on the request of the current owners of all three properties, Crown Point Center LLC. The change makes the 484 Bridgeport Avenue lot larger by 0.03 acres.

The other parcels being slightly adjusted are 494 and 504 Bridgeport Avenue. All are commercial properties that make up the Crown Point Center, a strip shopping complex that includes various businesses. The center also includes 514 Bridgeport Avenue.

Scheetz told the P&Z that 484 Bridgeport Avenue previously was a machine shop, where the below-ground contamination originated. He described it as “shallow soil contamination” that includes a low concentration of PCPs.

The contamination is from decades ago and was moved around the site when it was developed by the previous owner, he said. “Some remediation” was done during the center’s development, he said, but it “was not completed.”

Scheetz said “the former property owner is responsible” for the remaining contamination, based on laws, and Fuss & O’Neill has been hired by the current property owner to make sure that happens.

Tracy Lewis, a land surveyor for the current owner, said state environmental officials have advised it would be best to have all the contamination on one property.

Attorney Dominick Thomas, who represented the previous owner when the site was developed, said he believes contamination was placed under the convenience store as part of the government-approved remediation process.

Scheetz then told Thomas, “You’re not privy to all the information.”

The site was previously owned and developed into the shopping center by an entity connected to James Botti, who later spent time in federal prison for his role in a zoning-related corruption scandal in Shelton.

Joe Rocco, one of the center’s current owners, said Botti hadn’t completed the environmental cleanup. Botti “shirked his responsibility and did not close this out,” Rocco said.

After the applicant and his representatives were asked questions about the environmental status of the properties, P&Z member Elaine Matto said the request appeared to simply involve an administrative matter to alter property borders.

Rocco agreed. “We weren’t bringing you an environmental issue,” he said. “We were bringing you a zoning issue.”

Scheetz said ground monitoring devices are being used on the land and “institutional controls” such as capping and a ban on digging may be implemented in the future. The contamination is mostly under asphalt or buildings due to the site’s development.

Crown Point Center was approved by the P&Z as two separate Planned Development Districts in 2002 and 2004.

The post P&Z shifts property lines due to contamination appeared first on Shelton Herald.

First marking period honor roll

9th grade

Steven Andrejczyk, Jeremy Aprea, Kayla Bailey, Marissa Berg, Isha Bidja, Ryan Blakeslee, Jennifer Borucki, Megan Breunig, Dylan Brown, Logan Brown, Olivia Bunn, Olivia Bush, Emily Cacchillo, Antonio Capomolla, Anthony Cardoso, Nicholas Carlucci, Michael Caruso, Carly Cipriano, Kalie Cipriano, Kaitlyn Corby, Jason Cordone, Aidan Cukale, Sophia Curran, Madelyn Cyr, Alexandra D’Amico, Emma D’Amico, Alisa D’Eramo, Shayaan Dabiran, Dominick Davis, Katherine Daxner, Vincent DeFeo, Wendell Eiderique, Destiny Ferreira, Adriana Franzese, Melinda Frost, Sofia Gasbarro, Aiden Gius, Valentina Gjeloshi, Devin Gray, Aniya Greene, Amanda Gregg, Hayley James, Alyssa Jardim, Rachel Kiman, Samuel Klein, Mia Kmetz, Ariana Kola, Nicholas Kozey, Kaushal Kulkarni, Destini Laskaris, Anna Leone, Tyler Lupkas, Ian Maggi, Katie Mandolfo, Troy Mandulak, Elsa Marino, Avalina Maurati, Rose McGrath, Ligia Miketta, Michael Morrison, Marcel Mweze, Sean Nunes-Enxuto, Sanya Oak, Courtney Onidi, Ihunna Onyekachiuzoamaka, Greta Parkes, Emily Pettinella, Caroline Richmond, William Rodrigues, Matthew Ryder, Xiomara Santos-Colon, Joseph Savino, Marisa Savino, Joseph Schiappa, Sabina Schrynemakers, Jacob Sciamanna, William Scott, Madison Stevens, Aja-nei Stinson, Mason Stutheit, Emily Taylor, Avary Tornow, Danielle Turcotte, Nathan Vargas, Emily Vasser, Isabella Vasser, Jacob Villalobos, Daniel Wakeman, Cheyenne Wildman, Carmella Willets, Michael Yurman and Charlotte Zilinek.

10th grade

Gabriella Almeida, Casey An, Emma Arsenault, Korey Barber, Kelsey Beas, Stephen Bracero, Shannon Brooks, Bianca Bulatao, Alexandra Capalbo, John Chiesa, Andrew Cole, Caidyn Collins, Olivia Condo, Alejandro Corona, Michelle Cuellar, Keyanah DePina, Sean Drury, Claire Foley, Benjamin Fulton, Noelle Garretson, Samantha Gaylord, Mya Gbriel, Nicholas Gencarelli, Alexandrea Gregg, Kaylee Gura, Kyle Heiden, John Horahan, Emma Jacob, Neha Jayanna, Connor Jensen, Josiah Kellogg, Carlin Kestenbaum, Ashley Kichar, Michael Kiwak, Nell Komorowski, Andrew Lam, Hailey Lane, Carla Leonzi, Maximilian LoMonte, Jaclyn Lupia, Michael Lysik, Caitlin MacDonald, Audrey Maco, Carolyn Maher, Nico Marini, Ryan Martorella, Kaitlynn Matthews-Rios, Caroline McCormick, Max McLoughlin, Michael Monaco, Malachi Morales, Jeremie Moretti, Michael Mourtadh, Sada Mussa, Andrew Mysirlidis, Pranav Nair, Danny Nguyen, Alexander Nip, Kaitlin Nugent, Trista Oddo, Erika Olson, Joel Ortiz, Sarah Panek, Alexandra Pena, Alexandra Pereira, Clarissa Pierre, Maliya Reid, Aliye Reinhardt, Alexa Reis, Christian Ripke, Kornela Rowicki, Alexandra Russell, Gabriel Rut, Catherine Santa, Reino Martin Sawan, Elena Schrynemakers, Jake Sciongay, Giovana Silva, Mason Stanko, Sean Stusalitus, Julia Tomcho, Elizabeth Uyar, Brett Wadeka, Brooke Weiss, Ryan Woods, Joshua Zamani and Christian Zarra.

11th grade

Manal Aaid, Reem Abdel-Hack, James Anderson, Shaeleigh Andrews, Mark Ayora, Antonio Baerga, Rayonna Barrett, Avery Battaglino, Jacob Bialek, Rachel Bishop, Christopher Bravo, Shannon Brennan, William Bronson, Christie Brumaire, Sydney Byron, Brandon Calabrese, Michael Callinan, Keegan Casey, Christopher Cavagnuolo, Samantha Chase, Kate Clomiro, Makaylia Colon, Bliss Compper, Justice Crafter, Allison Dapp, Katelyn Davis, Jacob Daxner, Sophie Dewitt, Mia Dioguardi, Kaitlyn Esposito, Mary Falsetti, Hanna Farag, Craig Ferris, Chase Fida, Jessica Foss, Haley Gabriel, Nathaniel Gencarelli, Mark Gergely, Georgio Ghazal, Benjamin Gilmore, Michael Giovannini, Anthony Gonzalez, Taylor Green, Hailey Greenleaf, Kyla Hackett, Destiny Haray, Spencer Hatfield, Maxwell Henning, Eun Sok Hong, Melissa Hunyadi, Jacob Iadarola, Lindsey Iadarola, Filipe Jorge, Thomas Killian, TeaWon Kim, Bridgette Kline, Nicole Kopec, Aislynn Kostandini, Kade Krasowski, Dimitrios Kydes, Kaivon Leon, Vanessa Lewis, Jeff Lim, Gia Lorenzo, Pauline Dianne Makinano, Arianna Malick, Gianna Maurati, Jada McCloggan, Matthew McGee, Jillian McNeil, Eric Modica, Joseph Morgan, Holly Mosher, Anni Motsikulashvili, Kevin Mulreed, Kindja Mweze, Jack Neary, David Niski, Andrew Ogden, Alec Oko, Christian Olavarria, Nicholas Pagluiso, Martina Pastore, Audrey Patrick, Mikayla Pereira, Tyler Pjatak, Nicole Purciello, Elizabeth Richmond, Cristina Rivera, Michael Rodia, Juliana Rolfe, Adam Rossetti, Marco Rossi, Megan Ryan, Arooj Saadat, Thomas Sadick, Elizabeth Sahagun, Gianna Sanzo, Michael Ray Sawan, Mark Schiavo, Ian Sevillano, Tommie Siu, Margaret Smalick, Trinity Soto, Kelly Stanley, Mateo Stisi, Luke Sullivan, Kylie Swatt, Emma Testani, Elaine Turiano, Jacqueline Turiano, Alex Urbani, Victoria Villalobos, Jasmine White, Nathan Wieler, Natalia Wilson, Victor Manuel  Zelaya Barrio, Alyssa Ziniak and Garrett Ziperstein.

12th grade

Kayla Argraves, Ahmad Bari, Megan Bisson, Grace Boles, Abigail Brand, Carolessa Brown, Brianna Capela, John Carr, Laurie Cavallaro, William Charney, Cristina Chirsky, Matthew Cho, Michael Ciambriello, Andrew Connolly, Amanda Corona, Michaela Cortigiano, Damaris Cristofano, Maria Curran, Gianna D’Angelo, Yasmeen Dabiran, Taylor Darcangelo, Sebastian De Los Santos,  Lisa DeJesus, Megan DeNigris, John DeRosa, Alexander Donfrancesco, Ernst Ebby, Deanna Fava, Reyna Ferrarese, Heather Garrett, Noah Grabowski, Tianna Greco, Aaliyah Hamilton, Rachel Hanson, Arlind Hima, Grace Horwedel, Maggie Howard, Julia Jacob, Renee Jenco, Stephanie Johnson, Mackenzie Joyce, Nicole Keith, Dylan Kekacs, Karina Keller, Maximilien Klein, Charles Klous, Samuel Kocurek, Alexander Kozlowski, Cole Krajcsik, Victoria Lawrence, Catherine Lindberg, Beyonce Lopez, Codi Lynders, Emily Marcinauskis, Jessica Masick, Delainey Maybeck, Camryn Mazerolle, Zachary McEwen, Colin Mengold, Arianna Merigliano, Madisyn Monteiro, Kayla Morandi, Sarah Morandi, Cassidy Morrow, Ayyan Mumtaz, Stylianos Mysirlidis, Neo Neal Natividad, Dmitri Nichio, Shawn Nitsche, Luke Notaro-Roberts, Clayton O’Brien, Nichole Oliver, Sarah Oxner, Angelo Papa, Nicholas Pavone, Magdalene Peluso, Brianna Pereira, Nicolina Perelli, Jessica Perley, Jaclyn Perna, Kaylee Persson, Dean Phung, Vinu Pillai, Meghan Pineau, MingHui Qiu, Emily Renkowsky, Briana Rowe, Haroon Saadat, Brian Sanfilippo, Claire Santa, Daniel Saranich, Brenna Sastram, Nardin Sayoufi, Molly Scalenghe, Bailey Schif, Neha Seenarine, Gianna Sia, Colin St. Pierre, Gianna Stanske, Jake Sullivan, Justine Tadduni, Alexis Thompson, Alexander Tiberio, Joseph Tiberio, Matthew Tokarski, Hayley Tranner, Tyler Weiss, David Youngquist, Marian Zapata Trinidad and Fan Zhang.

First marking period high honor roll

9th grade

Brandon Albaladejo, Lily Bacca, Kayla Bretan, Sarah Broad, Megan Bucherati, Emily Carlin, Maura Carr, Mia Chen, Joseph Ciambriello,  Joseph Ciccone, Caileigh Cisero, Jase Aden Co, Daniel Connolly, Natalya Correia, Ria Dalvi, Leah Darby, Alexandra de Andrade, Rhianna de Andrade, Abigail De Los Santos,  Marissa Dias, John Esteves, Mia Ferreira, Nathan Foss, Greta Gelumbickas, Joseph Giovannini, Jai Goel, Arvin Islam, Ashley Jacob, Jaclyn Jenco, Elizabeth Kennedy, Amanda Kiman, Aleksandra Kozak, Mizna Malik, Joshua Mallette, Karolina Martins, Margaret McDonald, Grace McPadden, Rachel Morrow, Tina Ni, Sasha Oak, Diya Patel, Olivia Pereira, Isiah Perez, Deepak Prakash, Brendan Reilly, John Sabovik, Olivia Salluhi, Annelyse Sherman, Isabela Silva, Isabella Silvis, Grace Wong, Bianca Youd and Graham Ziperstein.

10th grade

Brandon Acervida, Ryan Bailey, James Baklik, Juan Miguel Barranco, Narmer Bazile, Reilly Brennan, Emma Buglione, Patrick Burden, Jules Cayer, Thalia Charkalis, Jeffrey Gould, Maya Gzyms, Carly Hajducky, Amber Haray, Florian Hurlbert, Anna Hynes, Jessica Jayakar, Spencer Keith, Adeline Kim, Ryan Kudej, Jillian LaPrise, Andrew Libby, Megan McCarthy, Caitlin McNeil, Matthew Mojica, Suhaas Nadella, Keira O’Connor, Erieana Pappano, Lawrence Pirone, Elizabeth Porto, Gage Posick, Gavin Powe, Robert Quevedo, Samantha Rago, Carson Rhodes, Paula Ribeiro, Melaina Roberto, Emily Sandin, Maria Clara Santos Veloso, Majd Saymeh, Virginia Sebas, Kyle St. Pierre, Anthony Steele, Ethan Stutheit, Walker Toth, Benjamin Van Tine, Joshua Vega, Leah Verrilli, Timothy Weinmayr, Devan Wildman, Zachary Wirth and Zoe Yoon.  

11th grade

Joseph Agreda, Periklis  Basimakopoulos, Christopher Belden, Tej Bidja, Elise Blakeslee, Mackenzie Boyce, Jordan Brannen, Shannon Brickett, Michael Brown, Rachel Brown, Mia Camerino, Elizabeth Casinelli, Aaron Chandir, Tori Charbonneau, Robert Ciccone, Owen Corbett, Michael Craft, Matthew Cristiano, Brian Dahdal, Joseph Davis, Kyle Figol, Haley Foothorap, Karina Friend, Ava Genova, Ahsanullah Ghafoor, Julia Glenn, Gabriel Herrera, Kyla Holman, Siddharth Jain, Anoushka Jayasuriya, Dustin Keller, Mehreen Khan, Taaseen Khan, Joseph LaRue, Keenan Lever, JinXia Lin, Jesse Lisi, Emanuel Louime, Madison Mackniak, Robert Marcinauskis, Maeve Marks, Magdalena Martins, Jenna Melanson, Brian Modica, Nathan Moniz, Ryan Nettle, Alexandra O’Donnell, Jake Oddo, Haley Oko, Tianna Pignataro, Kevin Platt, Ian Pleasant, Deepthi  Prakash, Kelsey Radzion, William Riordan, Phoebe Rodia, Megan Rodko, Sean Sampaio, Sidney Shanahan, Philip Sissick, Lillian Taska, Gladiola Teodori, Leya Vohra, Tori Weed, Cora Welsh, Iris White, Riley Woodyard, Michael Wright, Jessica Wurms, Ananya Yadav, Kyle Young and Emily Zerella.

12th grade

Haley Adcox, Christina Alberici, Amanda Bean, Gregory Beaudoin, Kade Bendici, Megan Boretsky, Casey Brennan, Alyssa Bretan, Emily Broad, Colin Brown, Rajan Caccam, Molly Callahan, Margherita Carlucci, Christopher Conrad, Adrianna D’Eramo, Ana Clara De Oliveira,  Olivia Delgado, Jonathan Dias, Mairy Dib, Jacob Falanga, Gio Fernandez, David Ferrara, Luke Ferrigno, Sydney French, Christopher Frost, Anthony Gambardella, Sarah Gloria, Nicholas Henckel, Dylan Johnson, Jason Juncker, Erin Keary, Caitlyn Kelley, Alexandra Kenealy, Michael Kichar, Colman Kim, Eunice Kim, Louise Kim, Skyler Kim, Natalie Klimaszewski, Martin Kovachev, Zachary Kozlowski, Adam Krzywosz, Michael Kucky, Amanda LoMonte, Mariah Mandulak, Julia Meyer, Sophie Molitoris, Robert Morgan, Samantha Norris, Julia O’Neill, Emma Parkes, Dhir Patel, Daniel Persico, Kasidy Quiles, Sean Rago, Kristina Rizzardi, Zoe Rogers,  Esabel Rosa, Giulia Salvio, Stephanie Schofield, Jacquelyn Simington, Kaylin Sorensen, Matthew Sullivan, Kathy Tran, Sarah Ullyett, Noah Vargoshe, Silvia Wahl, Anna Weissenberg, Desiree Wright and Sydney Youd.

The post Shelton High announces high honor, honor rolls appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The following programs and activities are taking place at Plumb Memorial and Huntington Branch Libraries. Most require advance registration. Plumb is located at 65 Wooster St. and can be reached at 203-924-1580. Huntington Branch is located in the Community Center, 41 Church St., and can be reached at 203-926-0111. Visit sheltonlibrarysystem.org and click “Events Calendar & Registration” to register online.

Friends of the Shelton Library System are no longer accepting book donations at this time. The F.O.T.S.L.S. will make an announcement at a later date as to when they will resume taking donations.

Due to the large number of teens who are currently volunteering at Plumb, the library has no volunteer hours available until the end of the year. Check back in the new year to see about volunteer opportunities.

**Holiday closings — Both libraries will be closing on Monday, Dec. 24 at 2 p.m., and closed on Tuesday, Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas. The libraries will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, Dec. 26. People may access all online services to renew materials, place holds, search databases, and more. Book drops will remain open at both libraries to return materials.

Huntington Branch Library

Danielle’s All Ages Storytime! — Thursdays, Dec. 20, and Dec. 27, 11:30 a.m. Join Danielle as she engages children of all ages with this drop-in storybook session.

Plumb Memorial Library

Tai Chi: Thursday Sessions — Thursdays, Dec. 20, and Dec. 27, 9:05 a.m. Each class will begin and end with a series of warm up and cool down exercises. There is no prerequisite to participate, no equipment is necessary and participants may do this seated if they feel more comfortable. Free and open to the public. Registration is required. Call 203-924-1580, or visit sheltonlibrarysystem.org to sign up. Note: Tai Chi location meets in the historic Reading Room.

Life is Art — Thursdays, Dec. 20, and Dec. 27, 6 p.m. Ages 10 and older. Join Miss Ronda for fun and different creative projects each week. Learn new techniques and express your inner artist.

Tai Chi: Friday Sessions — Fridays, Dec. 21, and Dec. 28, 9:05 a.m. Plumb Memorial Library has added more dates for Friday Tai Chi workshops for adults. Each class will begin and end with a series of warm up and cool down exercises. There is no prerequisite to participate, no equipment is necessary and participants may do this seated if they feel more comfortable. Registration is required; call 203-924-1580 or visit sheltonlibrarysystem.org to register. Note: Tai Chi location meets in the historic Reading Room.

Alphabits — Thursdays, Dec. 20, 10:30 a.m. A drop-in story time geared toward kids 0-5 years old and their caregivers. Join Miss Maura for a skill-based program story plus hands-on centers, baby space and music fun.

W.I.C. (Women, Infant, Children) – Friday, Dec. 21, 9 a.m. Benefits distribution; appointments through Naugatuck Valley Health District. To make an appointment, or to qualify for the program, call 203-888-1271. Note: Due to Meeting Room renovations, W.I.C. will be meeting in the Connecticut Room located on the main floor of Plumb. Parents/Caregivers with strollers may use the back entrance ramp to enter and exit the building.

DIY snow globes — Saturday, Dec. 29, 11 a.m. Join Miss Maura as she teaches how to capture our own “winter wonderland” in a glass jar. All supplies provided. This program is for children 5 to 12 years old and their caregivers. Caregivers must remain with their child for program duration. Registration is required for this program.

NOON Year’s Eve Party — Monday, Dec. 31, 11:30 a.m. Ring in the NOON Year at Plumb Library by crafting a noisemaker, adding your wish for the New Year to our 2019 STAR then we will countdown to noon and conclude with pizza. This program is geared toward kids 1 to 12 years old and their caregivers. Caregivers must remain with their children for program duration. Registration is required for this party.

Home Delivery

Shelton residents who cannot get to the library due to temporary or permanent disability are welcome to apply for home delivery of library materials. Contact Huntington Branch Library, 203-926-0111. A project underwritten with support from the Friends of the Library and the Valley Community Foundation.

The post Shelton Library Lines: Snow globes, party among programs appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) will hold a second public information meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 9, to update the public on the design of renovations and enhancements to the Derby-Shelton bridge over the Housatonic River.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. in the Aldermanic Chambers in Derby City Hall, 1 Elizabeth St., Derby, and provide residents and stakeholders an opportunity to learn project details, including updated design plans and project timeline, and provide input on the design changes that have taken place since the first public informational meeting that was held on April 18.

“There have been some minor modifications to the project since our last public information meeting in April to consider comments we had received,” said Mark Nielsen, NVCOG director of planning. “The Jan. 9 meeting will give residents and stakeholders the opportunity to learn about those changes, as well as allow for input and comments as the project enters the final design phase.”

The intent of the project is to create an aesthetically pleasing public space along the Derby-Shelton bridge and provide an attractive gateway to the downtown areas of Derby and Shelton. It is being designed by AECOM under contract to the NVCOG. Construction will be advertised and administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).

The project will include:

• The replacement of bridge parapet walls; The new parapet will be a solid concrete wall and include decorative metal railings; The railing treatment and its placement along the parapet will provide safety, as well as aesthetically attractive sight lines.
• The removal of existing lighting and replacement with period style lights that both enhance the presence of the bridge at night and comply with dark sky guidelines;
• Various roadway improvements, including adjusting the lane and shoulder widths and providing a second eastbound traffic lane, increasing the width of the sidewalk on the south side of the bridge to accommodate a larger public space and a separated lane for bicyclists.
• The project will also offer connectivity with the existing Housatonic Riverwalk trail network in Shelton and the Derby Greenway/Naugatuck River Greenway in Derby. The project limits will extend from the Bridge Street intersection with Main Street in Derby to the west end of the Derby-Shelton Bridge and includes the connections to Canal Street.

It is currently expected that the design will be completed in late 2019, with construction being bid in early 2020 and completed by the end of that calendar year. While travel lanes may be narrowed, there will be no reduction in roadway capacity.

If cancelled due to inclement weather, the meeting date would be Thursday, Jan. 17.

The post Public to get bridge renovation update appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Misty

Misty is a spayed female cat.  She is hoping for a new home for the holidays.  Misty and a few other adult cats are patiently waiting and hoping for the new year to bring them a loving home.  Call Trumbull Animal Shelter at 203-452-5088 for more information or visit the other cats and dogs available for adoption at 324 Church Hill Road.

Seeking donations

The Trumbull Animal Shelter is always in need of the following items: Canned cat food, clay cat litter, large rawhide, Kong or Nylabones for larger breed dogs. They can be dropped off at the Trumbull Animal Shelter.

The post Dogs and cats still available for adoption at Trumbull Animal Shelter appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The city of Shelton has announced its schedule for the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays.

City Hall will be closed on Monday, Dec. 24, and Christmas Day, Tuesday, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day, Tuesday, Jan. 1.

Both libraries will be closed early on Monday, Dec. 24 at 2 p.m., and closed on Tuesday, Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas. The libraries will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, Dec. 26. People may access all online services to renew materials, place holds, search databases, and more. Book drops will remain open at both libraries to return materials.

There will be no trash and recycling collection on Tuesday, Dec. 25, and Tuesday, Jan. 1. Monday’s collection will occur as scheduled. Tuesday’s collection will be one day late. For the rest of the week, residents are advised to put out their trash and recycling on their normal scheduled day. If it is not picked up on that day, it will be on the following day.

The city yard and transfer station will both be closed on Tuesday, Dec. 25, and on Tuesday, Jan. 1.

The post City announces holiday schedule appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Any churches who wish to have its listing appear in this weekly column, send information to editor@sheltonherald.com.

Methodist

First United Methodist Church of Shelton, 188 Rocky Rest Road, Shelton. Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 10 a.m., followed by fellowship; Sunday School, 10:15 a.m. Child care is also available. Adult education, 11:30 am

Regenerate: A Christian Conversation — This informal service of worship, prayer, conversation and meditation takes place Thursdays at 7 p.m. Call the church office to confirm that Regenerate will be taking place on that evening.

Upper Room — Small group Bible study on Thursdays at 10 a.m.

The following are Christmas services:

• Christmas Eve family candlelight service, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m.
• Christmas morning celebration worship, 10 a.m.

Weather cancellations are posted on WTNH and WFSB, our Facebook page and the answering machine. For more information, call (203) 929-3537 or email office@umcshelton.org.

Jewish

Chabad of Shelton-Monroe, the first and only Jewish center in town. Women’s circle events on Wednesdays; weekly torah class on Thursdays. Communal Shabbat dinner coming up at the Rabbi’s home.

For more information, call 203-364-4149 or email Rabbi@jewishshelton.com

Lutheran

Trinity Lutheran Church, 183 Howe Ave. Shelton. Regular Sunday worship, 10 a.m., with Sunday school during the sermon.

The following are Christmas services:

• Christmas Eve — 11 p.m., candlelit service. All are welcome.

For more information, call 203-924-4128 or email trinityshelton@live.com. Visit www.TLCShelton.org or the Facebook page — Trinity Lutheran Church, Shelton, CT.

Congregational

Huntington Congregational Church, 19 Church St. (facing the Huntington Green), Shelton. Regular worship service Sundays at 9:30 a.m.

The following are Christmas services:

• Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 — Family service, 4 p.m.; Candlelight lessons and carols, 11 p.m.

For more information, call (203) 929-1223 or visit www.huntingtonucc.org

Episcopal

Church of the Good Shepherd 182 Coram Ave, Shelton. Sunday service is at 10 a.m.

A Christmas Eve service will be held at 7 p.m., with Creche service at 645 p.m.

For more information, call 203-924-8050 or visit goodshepherdct.wixsite.com/church

The post Shelton weekly religious listings appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Photo courtesy of the fire marshal’s office

Firefighters spent a significant portion of Wednesday morning dousing a fire at BTX Corp., 12 Commerce Dr.

Shelton Fire Marshal James Tortora said while the fire is now out, it “caused some significant damage to the building front façade.” Some 25 firefighters representing Echo Hose, Huntington and Pine Rock companies were on scene.

Tortora said there were no injuries. The fire was caused by a spark from welding operations on outside of building in front, according to the fire marshal.

Photos courtesy of Echo Hose Auxiliary.

The post Fire damages Commerce Drive building appeared first on Shelton Herald.

In preparation for the Christmas holiday week, Connecticut state troopers remind motorists that combining careful planning with sensible driving will lead to safer road trips for those making a trek during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.

Tens of thousands of travelers are expected to drive on Connecticut highways during the upcoming holidays. State police ask motorists to follow all motor vehicle laws, as their behavior on the roads is essential to keeping potential hazards at a distance.

“We ask that all motorists pay attention to weather forecasts before they head for their destinations and always use caution while traveling on Connecticut roads,” said State Police Colonel George F. Battle. “If you get behind the wheel, please make the safety of those on the road your top priority.”

Simply putting traffic laws into practice will prevent accidents and save lives:

• Drive the speed limit.
• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts.
• Signal when turning, changing lanes or taking an exit.
• Refrain from texting or using your phone.
• Never consume alcoholic beverages or drugs, including those legally prescribed, before you get behind the wheel.
• Immediately reduce speed to a reasonable level below the posted speed limit or move over one lane (whenever safe to do so) whenever law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances or tow trucks are occupying a lane. Please give them room to do their job efficiently and safely.

Drivers are also reminded to plan their trips with care:

• Fill the gas tank prior to your journey.
• Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid and tire pressure.
• Fully charge your cell phone.
• Carry winter blankets, drinking water and snacks.
• Check traffic and weather conditions before leaving home.
• Keep a shovel and sand or salt in the trunk of your vehicle.

“Our troopers will be patrolling state highways with a keen focus on those driving with distractions and those operating under the influence,” said Battle. “Every driver has the opportunity to be our partner by obeying state laws on the road.”

State police will operate roving patrols and conduct DUI checkpoints starting Dec. 21 and

continuing through Jan. 2. Troop I, in which Shelton is a part, will hold a checkpoint, beginning Dec. 20, and running from 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. on Route 8 in the areas of Shelton, Ansonia and Derby.

The post State trooper prepare for holiday highway enforcement appeared first on Shelton Herald.

What started out as a way for Theresa Kasun to make some extra holiday money right out of grad school 26 years ago ended up being an annual freelance gig that has lasted to this day.

And the longtime Shelton resident would not have it any other way.

“I’m so happy that these paintings bring people joy,” said Kasun, a licensed artist who has had her top-selling artistic designs on various products, such as oven mitts, hand towels and other household materials, sold at Bed Bath & Beyond and other major retailers.

“I love the fact that these paintings provide some uplifting feelings for people during the holiday season,” added Kasun.

Kasun has been painting original Christmas designs on the windows of pizzerias, pastry shops, diners, and countless other small businesses throughout Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens.

Her background as a classically trained artist gives her the ability to paint life size Santas, elves, and anything else a business owner would like painted on their windows. Her window painting includes other holidays; Easter, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and even Super Bowl windows.

Kasun, born and raised in Omaha, Neb., was attending graduate school at New York Academy of Arts and living in Wlliamsburg, Brooklyn, N.Y., when a stop in the neighborhood gathering spot, Fortunato Brothers Cafe, led to the annual job that has become a Christmas staple.

At the time, Fortunato’s used large cardboard Christmas pictures to cover the some 20 windows that went ceiling to floor and bring some holiday cheer. Kasun said one day, while she sat and enjoyed some food and drink, her friend who was dining with her decided to remove one of the cardboard cutouts and ask one of the owners why he would use this cardboard picture when there was an artist sitting in his shop who could create beautiful pictures right on the glass.

The rest is history. Kasun took the gig, first drawing the pictures in black on the glass, then coloring the pictures using acrylic paints.

“It is like stained glass … you can see on the inside and the outside,” said Kasun.

From there, Kasun neighboring businesses saw the beauty of the window pieces and came calling. And the exposure has increased her Christmas season clientele to some 29 different businesses.

For larger numbers of windows, such as Fortunato’s, she blocks out a couple days to complete the work. But, on average, she said she has become so proficient with her painting skills that she can complete two small businesses in one day.

“I really like brightening people’s lives during the holidays,” said Kasun. “I never expected it to turn out like this, but it is really wonderful.”

The post Shelton resident renowned Christmas window painter appeared first on Shelton Herald.

In the new TEAM toy workshop are, left to right, TEAM Administrative Assistant Silvia Paytas, TEAM Development Communications Manager Kellie Santiago and TEAM Early Childhood Director Jamie Peterson. — Brian Gioiele photo

The Echo Hose Ambulance Community Training Center became a Christmas paradise for needy families this past week.

Hundreds of families spent Friday, then Monday through Wednesday choosing from thousands of donated toys in the lower level of the Coram Avenue facility — all part of the TEAM, Inc. Toys 4 Kids holiday toy drive, which has provided gifts to area families for more than two decades.

“This is incredible for families,” said TEAM Early Childhood Director Jamie Peterson. “The unique part about this toy shop is that we allow the families to select the gifts here. They get the chance to enjoy the experience … to shop and choose their own gifts for their children.”

Volunteers from Echo Hose Ambulance spent last Wednesday traveling the city of Shelton, more than 50 locations in all, collecting donated toys. The stops included the Shelton Senior Center, at which volunteers John Jay Zikaras and Steve Schwartz, with the help of center director Doreen Laucella, stuffed several bags with toys donated by the seniors. — Brian Gioiele photos

Echo Hose Ambulance began using the training center  — the former St. Joseph School — in September, and Peterson said the local volunteer organization offered space in the lower level for a Toys 4 Kids toy store.

“They are all leaving with a good size bag of stuff,” said Peterson. “It is great to see the happy faces over the holiday.”

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. Peterson said 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, added Peterson, and this could not be done without the help of the volunteers, collection sites and the contributions received from generous community members.

Toys are dropped off at designated TEAM Toys 4 Kids drop collection sites throughout the community. Boxes are made available at these locations from mid-November until approximately one week before Christmas.

Echo Hose Ambulance Co. volunteers spent Wednesday, Dec. 12, driving ambulances to more than 50 stops throughout town collecting donated toys, which were then transported to a toy workshop on Coram Avenue, where volunteers sorted and classified toys by price, age and gender.

“TEAM’s Toys 4 Kids program differs from other holiday toy drives because parents are not simply handed a random toy based on gender and age group; parents are able to shop for their children, making selections based on their child’s interests,” said Peterson.

Families are provided with “Toy Bucks” to shop for four toys for each child. Each child receives two yellow toy bucks, for toys up to $10; one green toy buck, for toys valued between $10 and $20; and one red toy buck, for a toy valued at $20 or more.

The eligibility requirements are for residents of Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Orange, Oxford, Seymour, Shelton, and Woodbridge, with children 12 years old and younger and whose income does not exceed 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

“Dozens of volunteers make this Christmas wonderland come to life,” said Peterson, adding that “no one worries about price, they just pick toys that make their children happy … and make this a happy holiday.”

Another stop was at Webster Bank where the bank’s banking center manager, Ann G. Bilotti, is shown with Schwartz and Zikaras after loading the donated toys in the ambulance. All the toys collected are donated to the TEAM toy store, located at the Echo Hose Ambulance Training Center. — Brian Gioiele photo

The post TEAM giving gifts galore appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The following will be a monthly article spotlighting the volunteers who help make the city of Shelton serve its residents.

Name: Stephen Schwartz

Where do you live?

My wife Christine and I live in Fairfield. We have a 22-year-old boy who just graduated from college; a sophomore 19-year-old girl in college; and a 17-year-old senior in high school. Two of my children have completed their EMT programs.

Where do you volunteer?

Echo Hose Ambulance

Why have you chosen to volunteer, and why did you choose this organization to

volunteer your time?  

I”ve spent 16 years of year-round volunteer work as a coach and a board member of various youth sports programs. While researching EMT programs with my older son, I realized this was something I would like to do as well. It turns out I love doing it. While researching various EMS departments, I was introduced to Echo Hose Ambulance Assistant Chief Joe Laucella through a mutual friend. I was very impressed by Joe’s and Chief Mike Chaffee’s passion for Echo Hose Ambulance and the city of Shelton. Echo Hose also has a training center where we can not only go and receive training on the most current protocols in EMS, it also provides a lots of free classes, like CPR and Stop the Bleed. An educated community is a solid first step in saving a life until we get there.

Favorite aspect of volunteering in Shelton?

Shelton is a vibrant and diverse community where people want to work and live. Driving through town, it’s clear the growth in the community and its businesses is very evident. It’s fun to be a small part of such a positive vibe. My wife and I like it so much we are opening a business here.

Occupation?

I recently ended a 27-year career on Wall Street. My wife and I are now opening an Express Employment Professionals location on Bridgeport Avenue. We are excited to add to the “vibe” and to help people in the Valley find jobs and help businesses grow.

Who is the greatest influence in your life?

Without hesitation my parents, Steve and Laura, and my wife, Christine. All have been supportive in all my crazy ideas and have more importantly put me in my place when needed.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Balancing long work weeks and family time. We are a tight-knit family and our children have grown up close friends.  

What can you not live without?

My sports, softball and golf. I am not good at either but it’s a nice break from the world once in a while.

The post Volunteer Spotlight: Stephen Schwartz appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Senate Republican President Pro Tempore Len Fasano (R-North Haven) and Senator Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford), co-chair of the General Assembly’s Insurance Committee, are calling on state leaders to take action in light of a recent federal judge’s ruling in Texas regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and increasing premiums on health insurance plans here in Connecticut.

The lawmakers are seeking to form a bipartisan committee to mitigate high premiums in the current exchange system and develop state-based policies to make health care accessible and affordable across the state should federal challenges to the ACA be upheld.

Fasano and Kelly wrote to Governor-Elect Ned Lamont asking for his support and leadership in establishing the bipartisan committee. The lawmakers also recommended a group of legislators, state officials, advocates and other stakeholders to be appointed to the proposed committee.

“We are writing to you today to ask that you join us in establishing a bipartisan committee to examine the Affordable Care Act in light of rising premiums here at home and the recent ruling by the Texas court,” the lawmakers’ letter to Lamont states.

“Just as lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have worked together in Connecticut to codify many protections offered by the ACA in state law,” stated the lawmakers, “we need to come together again to take a proactive approach to a) address the growing costs of insurance plans under the current system and b) make sure our state has policies in place that can provide affordable health care in Connecticut irrespective of what happens in Washington regarding the Texas ruling.”

The pair stated that state leaders need to come together to find ways to reduce health care costs so more people can afford health insurance and access care.

“We also have to be proactive and ready a state-based plan should the Texas ruling be upheld and should Congress fail to quickly adopt new, appropriate policies,” further stated the lawmakers.

Fasano and Kelly also asked Lamont to set an example for other politicians in the state who have used the Texas court ruling on the ACA to fuel divisive rhetoric, ignoring the state’s bipartisan legislation that protects many desirable elements of the Affordable Care Act such as coverage for preexisting conditions and allowing young adults younger than 26 to remain on their parents’ insurance plans.

“Either these politicians have forgotten what we have accomplished together in Connecticut, or they are purposefully ignoring the facts that don’t fit their narrative,” stated the lawmakers in their letter. “This political rhetoric and divisiveness that some local lawmakers and congressional legislators continue to use has no place in Connecticut. Through bipartisan efforts we have protected core elements of the ACA in Connecticut and we will continue to do so.  We don’t need the Washington D.C. ‘blame game’ here in our state. That is why we need you as a leader to bring people together. We need our governor to set the example and make it clear health care policy should not be used as a political tool.”

Fasano and Kelly recommended the proposed bipartisan committee include the following members:

• Four state lawmakers — two co-chairs and two ranking members of the Insurance Committee (two Democrats and two Republicans)
• The Insurance Department commissioner
• The Department of Social Services commissioner
• The Access Health CT executive director
• Insurance carriers
• A representative from the governor’s health care cabinet
• The state health care advocate

“When it comes to creating an affordable and accessible health care system, we believe Connecticut has an opportunity to be the leader for all other states,” wrote Fasano and Kelly. “We are the insurance capital of the world, we have bright minds on both sides of the aisle, and we all share the same desire to make health care affordable and accessible to all. Now is the time to take the politics out of health care and focus on the policy. Our residents deserve no less.”

The post Future of CT health care: Kelly’s focus on lowering insurance costs, state-based affordable plan appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The following arrests were made by the Shelton Police Department between Dec. 10 and Dec. 16.

• Jeffrey Escobar, 31, of Canal Street, was arrested at 3:15 p.m. on Dec. 16 at police headquarters on charges of third-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace. He received a $500 bond and was scheduled to appear in court the next day.
• John Lucas, 65, of Long Hill Avenue, was arrested at 9:35 a.m. on Dec. 16 for second-degree breach of peace. He was released on a promise to appear in court on Jan. 3.
• Jill Gilbert, 48, of Ward Drive, was arrested at 6:40 p.m., on Dec. 14 at her residence for disorderly conduct and third-degree assault. She was released on a promise to appear in court on Dec. 17.
• Derek Figueroa, 31, of Torrington, was arrested at 5:07 p.m. on Dec. 14 at a Bridgeport Avenue address for a host of charges. Figueroa was charged with three counts of second-degree breach of peace, first-degree criminal mischief, two counts of third-degree assault, sale of a controlled substance (not narcotic), possession of a controlled substance (less than a half ounce of cannabis), and first-degree criminal trespass. He received a $5,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 2.
• Omar Orlando Biggs, 30, of New Haven, was arrested at 10:45 p.m. on Dec. 12 at police headquarters on charges of third-degree strangulation and second-degree threatening. He received a $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 21.
• Luis Alves, 31, of Hill Street, was arrested at 5:57 p.m. on Dec. 12 in the vicinity of Hill Street and Coram Avenue on a disorderly conduct charge. He received a $500 bond and was scheduled to appear in court the next day.
• James Paul Simon, 50, of Grace Lane, was arrested at 7:25 p.m. on Dec. 11 at an Edison Road address on charges of second-degree breach of peace, risk of injury to a child, third-degree assault and second-degree threatening. He received a $2,500 bond and was scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 12.
• Alphonso J. Baker, 40, of Myrtle Street, was arrested at 9 p.m. on Dec. 10 on charges of third-degree assault and disorderly conduct. He received a $1,000 bond and was scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 11.
• Joseph Bawala, 43, of Derby, was arrested at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 10 in the vicinity of Long Hill and Cross Road on charges of interfering with an officer, evading responsibility in a motor vehicle and improper turns. He received a $2,000 bond.

The post Shelton Police Log: Dec. 10-16 appeared first on Shelton Herald.

The Shelton Volunteer Fire Department responded to the following incidents between Dec. 10 and Dec. 15, as submitted by the fire marshal’s office:

Monday, Dec. 10

At 2:03 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to 83 Bridge St. for a car fire. There was no fire upon arrival of fire units. A rescue pumper responded.

At 4:50 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 responded to 95 Willoughby Road for a public service call. An engine and a utility truck responded.

Tuesday, Dec. 11

At 12:26 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to Sorge Industries, 289 Coram Road, for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. A ladder truck and a tower truck responded.

At 7:05 a.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3, Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to the Shoreline Animal Hospital, 895 Bridgeport Ave. There was no fire. An engine responded.

At 12:25 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to Commerce Drive at Enterprise Drive for a motor vehicle accident. A engine and a rescue pumper responded.

At 4:22 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to the area of 25 Wakelee Ave. for an electrical hazard; power line down in the road. Upon arrival firefighters found a telephone wire down not a power line. A unit responded.

At 6:28 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to route 8 northbound at exit 12 for a motor vehicle accident. A engine and two rescue pumpers responded.

Wednesday, Dec. 12

At 12:31 p.m., the Pine Rock Co. #4 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to CCL Label Company at 15 Controls Drive for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. A rescue pumper responded.

At 5:08 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to Coram Avenue and Bridge Street for an odor of natural gas in the area. Firefighters and gas company officials found a leak on nearby Wall Street. A rescue pumper and a ladder truck responded.

At 6:21 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to route 8 northbound at exit 12 for a motor vehicle accident. An engine, a rescue pumper and a tower truck responded.

Thursday, Dec. 13

At 6:24 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the White Hills Co. #5 responded to 568 Howe Ave. for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. A unit responded.

At 2:06 p.m., the fire department responded to 1 Corporate Drive to assist police with suspicious activity. Two units responded.

At 3:40 p.m., the fire department responded to 50 Bridge St. to assist police with suspicious activity. A unit responded.

At 3:46 p.m., Echo Hose Co. #1, White Hills Co. #5 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to 38 Bridgeport Ave. for a report of a chimney fire. No chimney fire was found. Heavy smoke from a wood stove caused the call. An engine responded.

At 9:34 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to Center Stage, 54 Grove St., for a fire alarm activation. There was no fire. A engine, a rescue pumper and a ladder truck responded.

Friday, Dec. 14

At 12:54 a.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to route 8 northbound at exit 12 for a motor vehicle accident. A engine and two rescue pumpers responded.

At 12:33 p.m., the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to 409 Asbury Ridge for a carbon monoxide detector sounding. An engine responded.

At 3:13 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 responded to 161 Buddington Road for an illegal open burn. An engine responded.

At 5:22 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3 and the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to route 8 northbound at exit 12 for a motor vehicle accident. A engine and two rescue pumpers responded.

Saturday, Dec. 15

At 10:02 a.m., the White Hills Co. #5 responded to 11 Frans Way for a carbon monoxide alarm activation. An engine responded.

At 11:19 a.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 responded to Coram Avenue at Myrtle Street for a motor vehicle accident. A engine and a rescue pumper responded.

At 11:27 a.m., the White Hills Co. #5 responded to 107 Saw Mill City Road for a leaking gas grille propane tank. An engine responded.

At 12:56 p.m., the Huntington Fire Co. #3, Echo Hose Co. #1 and the Pine Rock Co. #4 responded to 7 Acadia Lane for a fire alarm activation. A engine, a ladder truck and a rescue pumper responded.

At 8:13 p.m., the Echo Hose Co. #1 for an electrical hazard; power line down in the road. A tower truck responded.

The post Shelton Fire Log: Dec. 10-15 appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Griffin Hospital offers free education, advice and support to help individuals prepare to quit smoking with its four-week smoking cessation program starting Jan. 2.

“That’s It — Learn to Quit” teaches a variety of methods to help individuals quit smoking. The program consists of Wednesday night meetings from 5:30 to 7 p.m. scheduled for Jan. 2, 9, 16 and 23 at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital, 350 Seymour Ave., Derby. There is also a “reunion” for graduates of the program on Jan. 30 at 5:30 p.m. in the center.

“The goal of the program is to help you learn how to quit,” said Richard Le Pera, a co-coordinator of the program. “There are different methods of quitting and managing nicotine withdrawal. If one method didn’t work for you in the past we’ll help you understand all your options.”

Through group discussion and interactive activities, participants learn how to develop a quit plan that addresses their personal behaviors and habits. Strategies to manage nicotine withdrawal, behaviors, triggers, and urges are discussed as well as weight control and stress management.

Participants must be prepared to attend all four sessions.

To register for “That’s It — Learn to Quit,” call 203-732-7106.

The post Hospital offers free smoking cessation program appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Getting ready for the holidays?

This weekend, check out some of the movies on broadcast and cable television. They will put you into the holiday mood!

Friday, Dec. 21

The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Judy Garland reminds us to have hope in a better tomorrow as she travels somewhere over the rainbow.

7:30 p.m., TNT

Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman teach us the meaning of patience and understanding in this Oscar-winning adaptation of the stage hit.

8 p.m., POP

Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

Audrey Hepburn warms the screen as a young lady in New York City looking for fun while seeking a substantive relationship.

8 p.m., TCM

The Queen (2006)

Helen Mirren reveals the emotions behind the throne in this touching drama of life in the British monarchy following the death of Princess Diana.

8 p.m., Flix

Saturday, Dec. 22

Ben-Hur (1959)

Charlton Heston makes us think of the impact of betrayal in this epic drama, from director William Wyler, that won 11 Oscars.

9:30 a.m., TCM

Baby Boom (1987)

Diane Keaton celebrates the miracle of parenthood – unexpected as it may be – in this delightful comedy from Nancy Myers and Charles Shyer.

11 a.m., POP

Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman teach us the meaning of patience and understanding in this Oscar-winning adaptation of the stage hit.

1:30 p.m., POP

The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Judy Garland reminds us to have hope in a better tomorrow as she travels somewhere over the rainbow.

8 p.m., TNT

Sunday, Dec. 23

Casino (1995)

Robert DeNiro and Sharon Stone light the screen in this scorching drama about the underworld from director Martin Scorcese.

10 a.m., VH-1

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Sandra Bullock makes us smile with her endearing portrayal of a lady trying to befriend a man in a coma.

12 noon, Sundance

Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Robin Williams makes us laugh and think in this complex comedy about a father who will do anything to spend time with his children.

2:30 p.m., CMT

The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Judy Garland reminds us to have hope in a better tomorrow as she travels somewhere over the rainbow.

2:45 p.m., TNT

Holiday Inn (1942)

Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire sing and dance their way through a catalog of Irving Berlin songs in this musical best remembered for introducing the song White Christmas.

6 p.m., TCM

The post Movie Menu: The Wizard of Oz, Casino, While You Were Sleeping and more appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Though the weather has warmed up, heavy rain and winds are predicted for Shelton and the surrounding area for Friday through Saturday.

A flash flood warning is in effect through 2:45 p.m. An area of low pressure moving up the spine of the Appalachians will result in a widespread 2 to 3 inch rainfall across the region. Locally higher amounts around 4 inches are possible. Rainfall may be heavy at times. A flood warning for the area will be in effect until 9:22 p.m.

The full forecast through Christmas:

Friday

Rain. The rain could be heavy at times. Patchy fog. High near 59. Southeast wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent. New precipitation amounts between three quarters and 1 inch possible.

Friday night

Showers likely, mainly before 9 p.m. Patchy fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a low around 46. South wind 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Saturday

A 20 percent chance of showers before noon. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a temperature falling to around 40 by 5 p.m. Southwest wind 9 to 16 mph becoming west in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Saturday night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 29. Wind chill values between 20 and 25. West wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 39. West wind around 8 mph.

Sunday night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Monday

Partly sunny, with a high near 40.

Monday night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Christmas Day

Mostly sunny, with a high near 37.

The post Rain forecast, flood watch in effect for Shelton Friday appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Tom Haynes, Haynes Group; Mark and Bill DaSilva, BAD SONS Beer Co.; and Rob Lesko, The DiMatteo Group/chamber board chairman.

More than 170 Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce members and guests gathered at Oronoque Country Club earlier this month for the organization’s holiday breakfast and awards celebration.

The annual event is held to celebrate the achievements of chamber members

Gary and Fran Scarpa of Center Stage Theatre with Bill Purcell of the Greater Valley Chamber.

Silver Hammer Award winners were Bad Sons Beer Co., BTX Global Logistics, Connecticut Basement Systems and CPV Towantic Energy Center. This year’s Milestone Awards were presented to Shady Knoll Health Center, Wesley Village and New Haven Symphony Orchestra. These institutions marked 25, 50 and 125 years of continuous operation, respectively, in 2018.
The chamber’s Innovation Award was presented to EAO Corp., a global leader in human/machine interface products.
The chamber also recognized Center Stage Theatre’s Fran and Gary Scarpa, who announced only weeks ago that they were retiring.

David Lawlor, Wesley Village/United Methodist Homes, and Rob Lesko, The DiMatteo Group/chamber board chairman.

Ross Bacarella of BTX and Rob Lesko, The DiMatteo Group/chamber board chairman.

Kevin Foley, Cushman & Wakefield of Connecticut; Deborah Torrey, Shady Knoll Health Center; and Rob Lesko, The DiMatteo Group/chamber board chairman.

The post Chamber honors members at holiday event appeared first on Shelton Herald.

If anyone recognizes the man above, they are asked to contact the Shelton Police Department at 203-924-1544. All calls will be kept confidential.

Shelton police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the man who law enforcement says robbed the Cumberland Farms store, located at 819 River Road, at 12:20 a.m. on Dec. 20.

Police said the man asked the store clerk for two cartons of cigarettes. When the clerk retrieved the cigarettes, police said the man grabbed them and a physical altercation occurred between the two individuals.

Police said the suspect was able to overpower the clerk and fled on foot with the cigarettes. Anyone who can identify the man or has information on this incident can contact the Shelton Police Department at 203-924-1544. All calls will be kept confidential.

The post Identification needed in Cumberland Farms robbery appeared first on Shelton Herald.