The Kennedy Center’s President and CEO Richard E. Sebastian, Jr., of Shelton, left, and Four Seasons Ball Co-Chair Peter Foley of Fairfield, center, congratulate GE’s Kevin Walsh of Fairfield, right, for his outstanding support of The Kennedy Center.

Nearly 250 guests celebrated the “Changing Seasons” in style at The Kennedy Center’s 54th annual Four Seasons Ball, raising $156,000 for The Kennedy Center’s programs to empower individuals with disabilities.

Held at Rolling Hills Country Club in Wilton, Kevin Walsh of Fairfield, managing director of GE Energy Financial Services and General Electric Co., were recognized for outstanding support.

Walsh has been a member of The Kennedy Center board of directors for more than six years and has provided expertise to the Budget and Finance Committee. Similarly, for more than three decades, GE Co. has had a long-standing partnership with The Kennedy Center and through this commitment, has made a defining impact to the individuals served by the agency.

“I am overwhelmed with the great turnout tonight,” Walsh said during his acceptance speech. “People have traveled here from all over the country and even Europe. I truly believe in the mission of The Kennedy Center. They support so many people in the community in a big way.”

Patrons at the ball also enjoyed dancing to the music of Atomic Funk and interactive games, including Heads or Tails and Deal or No Deal — thanks to the help of student volunteers from St. Joseph High School.

“The funds raised by the Ball, along with the Tribute Journal, play a critical role in The Kennedy Center continuing to empower people with disabilities,” said Richard E. Sebastian, Jr., of Shelton, president and CEO of The Kennedy Center.

“Each year we support more than 2,200 people through the life cycle — from birth to our oldest individual who recently celebrated her 91st birthday,” added Sebastian. “Those individuals, in turn, make meaningful contributions to their communities. The generosity of our community members ensures that these individuals continue to thrive in their communities and creates opportunities for us to support and employ more people, especially through our Social Enterprises.”

The top Platinum Sponsors are the Bannow Larson Foundation, General Electric, People’s United Bank, William and Gloria Paul, The Barry Family Fund, and Michele Macauda and Richard Burke of Monroe. Norton Rose Fulbright donated as a Gold Sponsor.

Sapphire Sponsors include: Fifth Third Bank, Orrick, and Fairfield residents Anne and Peter Foley, Carla and Peter Gavey, and Kevin and Sandy Walsh.  At the Emerald level supporters are CPV Towantic Energy Center and R. D. Scinto. Ruby Sponsors contributors include: Bigelow Tea, John and Michelle Bisack of Fairfield, and Joe, Nancy and David Dennin of Trumbull, Betsy Ryan Interiors, BlumShapiro, Lincoln Clean Energy, Merit Insurance and Diane Thompson of Newtown.

Since its inception in 1965, the Four Seasons Ball has contributed more than $2.5 million to The Kennedy Center and is one of the longest running galas in Fairfield County.

The Kennedy Center, founded in 1951, is an internationally accredited, non-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that currently serves more than 2,200 individuals annually. The agency actively responds to the needs of the community by offering innovative and comprehensive service and supports to persons with disabilities and special needs, from birth to senior years. The Kennedy Center operates 31 community experience programs, 17 group homes, six Social Enterprises, supported and competitive employment and job placement services, family support services, travel training, and a variety of children’s programs. Visit thekennedycenterinc.org for more information.

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A verbal dispute led to a stabbing at Center St. Social Friday night.

Police arrested 60-year-old Stephen F. Staffy of Shelton on charges of first-degree assault, carrying a dangerous weapon, first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree threatening and second-degree breach of peace.

Stephen F. Staffy

Shelton Police Det. Christopher Nugent said that at approximately 10:45 p.m. on Friday an officer working a private duty detail at Center St. Social, 127 Center St., quickly apprehended Staffy after he allegedly stabbed the victim.

Nugent said officers investigating the incident discovered that the 22-year-old male victim and Staffy had a verbal altercation in the bar, when Staffy pulled out a knife and put it up to the victim’s neck. The male victim was then stabbed in the neck, said Nugent, and Staffy was then  detained by business employees and placed under arrest by police.

Officers learned that the male victim and Staffy exchanged words in the bar, which quickly escalated by Staffy pulling out a knife. The victim was transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital, where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Staffy was placed on a $250,000 bond.

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Barbara Marsh will begin exhibiting her photography at the Plumb Memorial Library in January and February.

Barbara Marsh will begin exhibiting her photography at the Plumb Memorial Library in January and February. The public is invited to view them during regular library hours.

Barbara Marsh

Marsh, a longtime Shelton resident, has enjoyed photographing various parts of the city — the cows at Wells Hollow Farm, the flowers at the Shelton Dog park and fall foliage.

Marsh has been interested in photography since she was a young girl when she received her first camera as a birthday gift from her parents. With her Brownie camera, she would photograph her surroundings.

As she grew, so did her desire for better quality photos. She graduated to a more complex camera and was able to expand to a wide variety of interesting subjects.

After retiring, Marsh was able to focus on her hobby more earnestly. She chose her best work and either matted and framed or converted her prints onto canvas. She has also created note cards from her photographs.

For more information,call the Plumb Memorial Library at (203) 724-1580.

Barbara Marsh

Barbara Marsh will begin exhibiting her photography at the Plumb Memorial Library in January and February.

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Santa and Mrs. Claus

If Santa Claus had to pick one word to describe what it’s like while on the job, it would be “adaptable,” he said.

“You have to be quick on your feet and have a ready answer to anything kids may say,” said Santa, in a recent interview with Hearst Connecticut Media Group while he was in town.

Santa took a walk down memory lane to Christmases of years past and recalled how much children’s requests have changed.

Forty years ago, all little girls wanted Barbie dolls and all little boys wanted erector sets and Lincoln Logs, Santa said.

Santa also experienced the Cabbage Patch kid and American Girl doll crazes.

“Now, it’s all electronics,” he said, sadly.

The youngest person Santa can remember sitting on his lap was three days old.

“They stopped by on their way home from Stamford Hospital where the baby was born,” Santa said. “The mother said ‘If I go home, there’s no chance I’m bringing this baby back out before Christmas and I want a picture of my newborn with Santa Claus.’”

Santa with Ben and Griffin Warren

The oldest person — to his knowledge — who wanted her picture taken with Santa, was a 92-year-old woman from a local nursing home.

As many as four people have sat on Santa’s lap at one time.

“About 15 years ago there was a set of quadruplets,” Santa said. “The family came each year until the kids were about 8 years old.”
He has also had three generations of family members sit on his lap.

“A grandmother told me she first sat here when she was 12,” Santa said. “When she got married and had kids, she brought her son to sit on my lap. He’s now married and has a son, and the three of them sat on my lap for a photo.”

While Santa said he has never been asked anything he couldn’t answer, there were many occasions where he had to think on his feet.

Questions he has been asked include: How old are you? How do the reindeer fly? And How did Rudolph’s nose get red?

Every once in a while, Santa said he gets a very sad request, such as to bring a loved one back from the dead.

“A little boy told him his uncle died last year and he’d really love him to come back for Christmas,” Santa said.

In response, Santa tells children when they’re opening their Christmas gifts, “they need to remember that uncle Tom is right near you, watching you,” Santa said. “He doesn’t physically have to be here to let you know that he’s sharing your happiness.”

On other occasions, Santa has found himself in the middle of a family dispute, when children tell him about their parent’s arguments.

“I tell them, ‘This is a normal part of life,” Santa said. “Mommy and daddy are still in love. An argument doesn’t change that.”

Sometimes, children ask Santa why they didn’t get what they asked him for last year.

“I tell them, ‘I was going to bring you gifts that I thought are appropriate and I just didn’t think that gift was appropriate,’” he said.  

“My job is to set the boundaries,” Santa added.

Santa said the outside world plays a very strong role in influencing children.

As an example, years ago, there was a highly played commercial about a family cell phone plan. At that time, a 5-year-old girl told Santa she wanted a cell phone.

Santa said to her, “You are 5 years old. What are you going to do with a cell phone?”

“Without a moment’s hesitation, the little girl said, ‘I will put it on the family plan,’” Santa said.

He added that cell phone calls interrupt a Santa visit “all the time.”

On another occasion, a 3-year-old girl sat on Santa’s lap “who had the most gorgeous blue eyes you ever saw. I asked her ‘Where did you get those beautiful blue eyes?’”

The girl told Santa, “Bloomingdales.”

Fifteen years ago, a little boy and his grandmother were waiting in line to see Santa. When it finally was their turn, the boy jumped on Santa’s lap and said that for Christmas he wanted a “Red Ryder, carbine action, 200-shot, range model air rifle, with a compass in the stock.”

The boy was reciting a famous line from 1983’s “A Christmas Story.”

“The grandma was appalled,” chuckled Santa, adding, “She hadn’t seen the movie.”

While Santa said he has had requests for guinea pigs, hamsters, dogs, horses, and even iguanas, occasionally, children will ask him for unusual “pets,” such as spiders.

“They are trying to get a rise out of me,” Santa said. “My job is to sit there and not get rattled.”

While he said he never had an issue with having a dog on his lap, he has had some negative experiences with cats over the years.

Most owners can control their dogs, and if they get frisky all I have to do is let go. Cats, on the other hand, will lash out with their claws,” he said. “Thankfully, I have never been seriously scratched but I have gotten my share of nicks. The biggest issue is trying not to get blood on the suit.”

When children tell Santa they don’t believe in him, he said he acknowledges their feelings.

“I tell them, ‘I can’t make you believe in Santa Claus. I can tell you that there’s no magic involved in Christmas. What’s magical, though, is the feeling you get at Christmas time — it’s entirely up to you if you choose not to enjoy that magical feeling.’”

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Troop 55’s Robert Ciccone recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

Robert Ciccone

Ciccone, a junior at Shelton High School, was sworn in at his Court of Honor ceremony held in November. He began his scouting career with Pack 28 as a Tiger Scout and became a boy scout a few years later.

Ciccone has held several positions within the troop, including patrol leader, troop guide, librarian, quartermaster, and Order of Arrow representative. He has earned 47 merit badges — 26 more than required.

His Eagle project consisted of raising funds and recruiting volunteers to dismantle and remove three old tables and build four new picnic tables and benches at Shelton National Little League located at the Stanley & Patricia Kudej Complex.

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Barbato enjoys perfect fall at CCU

Justin Barbato of Shelton, a business major, made the President’s List, earning a perfect 4.0 GPA, during the fall semester at Coastal Carolina University.

Area Eastern students recognized at ‘English Night’

The English Department at Eastern Connecticut State University held its semesterly celebration of student excellence this December. “English Night” featured an awards ceremony, induction into the Sigma Tau Delta international honor society and student presentations.

Among the students recognized were:

• Allison Brown ’19 of Shelton, who was inducted into Sigma Tau Delta.
• Courtney Sissick ’20 of Shelton, who was also inducted into Sigma Tau Delta.

In order to qualify, English students must have completed a minimum of four 200-level English courses, a minimum average GPA of 3.5 in English courses and an overall 3.0 GPA. Members are eligible for select scholarships, internship opportunities and other benefits.

“We have hosted English Night at the end of each semester for decades,” said Barbara Little-Liu, professor and chair of the English Department. “The various awards, scholarships and other forms of recognition give us a chance to celebrate all of our outstanding students, from freshmen to seniors.”

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Griffin Hospital will offer a free presentation on minimally invasive hip replacement surgery on Wednesday, Jan. 16, at 5:45 p.m. at the hospital, 130 Division St., Derby.

Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Philip Minotti

Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Philip Minotti will discuss the advanced direct anterior approach for hip replacement, which offers important advantages over standard surgical procedures. Direct anterior hip replacement patients generally experience less pain along with a shorter length of stay in the hospital and faster recovery. Minotti will be available at the end of the presentation to answer any questions from attendees.

These seminars are offered monthly at Griffin Hospital. Refreshments will be served. For more information or to reserve your spot, call Griffin Hospital Orthopaedic Care Specialist Amy Gagne at 203-732-7524.

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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 closed early on Monday, Dec. 31, at 2 p.m., and closed Tuesday, Jan. 1, in observance for New Year’s Day. The libraries will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, Jan. 2. 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. 27, 11:30 a.m. Join Danielle as she engages children of all ages with this drop-in storybook session.

First Friday Book Discussion — Friday, Jan. 4, 1 p.m. The selection for December is Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult. A shocking murder shatters the calm of Pennsylvania Amish country and the heart of the lawyer who defends the man at the center of the storm. January’s title is The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. Books will be available at the Huntington Branch Library.

Plumb Memorial Library

Tai Chi: Thursday Sessions — Thursdays, Dec. 27, and Jan. 3, 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. 27, and Jan. 3, 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. 28, and Jan. 4, 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.

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.

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This year, Shelton’s primary schools — those with students in kindergarten through fourth grade — welcomed 139 new pupils. While that represents an uptick of approximately 10% overall, district-wide enrollment is expected to remain relatively level over the next five years, with some schools posting increases while others experience decreases.

Those were some of the results of a redistricting study recently conducted in Shelton by Cheshire-based engineering firm Milone & MacBroom. The firm’s principal planner, Rebecca Augur, gave an overview of the redistricting study at the Shelton Board of Education’s Dec. 19 meeting.

The main takeaway from Augur’s presentation was that school boundaries are likely to shift, but where and by how much is still to be determined. Consequently, the Board of Education is still several months away from redrawing district lines.

The Milone & MacBroom study focused on the K-4 student population, for a key reason. That particular age cohort is where population trends are expected to show the most impact on school enrollments.

“Overall, children’s births among city residents have been on a downward trend since 2000, with a brief birth bubble in 2017,” said Augur. “The lowest birth years were in 2014 and 2015, which will be in the incoming kindergarten classes for 2019 and 2020.”

Different areas of Shelton are experiencing somewhat different population trends. Neighborhoods on the city’s north end are aging, with a 50% increase in residents older than 65. And although that is projected to result in a downturn in school enrollment in the short term, the long-term effect might be the reverse.

“To us, that is housing that is ripe for turnover, because many of those older householders will look to downsize to smaller homes,” she said.

Trends have been the opposite in other parts of Shelton, particularly neighborhoods east of Route 8. Increased numbers of births and an influx of new residents are expected to result in enrollment growth at Sunnyside and Long Hill Schools.

“Overall, you are getting older — as is the rest of Connecticut,” Augur said. “But you are seeing factors to balance that, such as new families moving in with children.”

The stronger real-estate market has had a positive impact on school enrollment.

“Housing sales in Shelton are up 70 percent since 2011,” said Augur, “and condo sales more than doubled during the same period.”

New apartment complexes — especially those with two- and three-bedroom units — have also brought families with children to the city.

The increase by 139 new pupils primarily comes from in-migration, Augur said. “It represents almost 10% of the overall student population [in those grades], and this year’s kindergarten class is the biggest since the 2008-2009 school year,” she said. “Just 31 of those students are in families who bought homes — the remainder are from families who rent.”

Board member Darlisa Ritter said the study’s conclusions could be somewhat misleading because of the temporary “birth bubble” recorded in 2017. Augur noted that the resulting figures must take that into account, but that a level trend line can be calculated which discounts its impact.

By shifting enrollment boundaries, the Board of Education will aim to level enrollments throughout the district, thus avoiding the prospect of some schools being under-crowded while others are overcrowded.

“We will also look to standardize ‘room deployment’ throughout the district,” said school Superintendent Dr. Chris Clouet, referring to special-purpose classrooms, such as a reading lab or a music room. The goal is for all schools to offer the same number of such facilities.

“We will be having public information sessions as the details become clearer as to exactly where we will be drawing school district lines,” said Clouet.

A remaining wild card in any analysis is the impact any future development would have on enrollment numbers. The redistricting study took into account all existing and proposed  development, but that would not include any new projects that are still in more preliminary stages: No such proposals have arrived at City Hall.

The Huntington Townhomes complex on Bridgeport Avenue offers a case study in how apartment construction can have a dramatic impact on student enrollment. The complex was built about a decade ago as an Avalon development and has since changed hands. Several dozen public school students now live at the complex.

“It is important for town officials to look at the price point and the size of the units at Huntington Townhomes,” said Ritter, because of its demonstrated popularity among couples with school-aged kids. Similar complexes can be expected to have the same impact, she noted.

Honoring innovation

Among other business, Amanda Wandishioin received the board’s monthly Innovative Educator Award. Wandishioin is a fourth grade reading and literacy specialist at Elizabeth Shelton Elementary.

The monthly award honors teachers who help students to realize their potential as 21st Century learners. In particular, Wandishion was cited for her use of Newsela, an online news resource, in student reading assignments. Newsela, which is an online instructional content platform that aims to “supercharge reading engagement and learning in every subject” via nonfiction articles that are automatically matched to a student’s reading level.

Wandishion has built a reputation for innovation. To further boost student engagement, she secured grant money to purchase a set of classroom microphones to enable students to give formal presentations about each Newsela article they read.

“This builds on reading comprehension by also boosting the students’ public-speaking skills and confidence,” Wandishion said.

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Susan Agamy, executive director of Spooner House, left, joined Kim Hall, senior applications coordinator at Griffin Hospital, and hospital staff in drawing tickets for the Holiday Wonderland of Trees fundraiser on Dec.19.

Griffin Hospital’s annual Holiday Wonderland of Trees fundraiser collected nearly $9,000 for Spooner House in Shelton to help feed and shelter area families in need this winter.

As part of Griffin’s Planetree Person-Centered Care Philosophy, the Holiday Wonderland of Trees calls on hospital departments to decorate three-foot artificial evergreen trees that are raffled off. The fundraiser aims to help improve health the community by supporting the Spooner House’s services.

This is the eighth year of the fundraiser, which has raised more than $56,000 in total.

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Area residents are coming together this holiday season to aid the family of a retired Shelton firefighter, who died Tuesday after battling cancer.

The Skurat family (Photos courtesy of Echo Hose Hook & Ladder Co. 1)

A GoFundMe page (https://www.gofundme.com/helping-the-skurat-family) was originally established months ago to assist the Skurat family, who live in Ansonia. Christopher “Opie” Skurat, who was 38, was a retired volunteer firefighter for the town of Shelton who was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma in 2017.

The GoFundMe page  — which, as of Wednesday night, has raised $8,525 of the $25,000 goal — was originally created to assist Opie and his wife, Carla, with covering bills as the family focused on Opie’s care. According to the GoFundMe page, both “Opie and Carla have been unable to work due to all the doctors’ appointments, chemo treatments, surgeries and hospital stays. Not only has Carla been by Opie’s side, caring for him, but she has been the primary care provider and supporter for their two sons, Jake, 13, and Ryan, 10.”

But on Tuesday, with Opie’s death, the page’s fundraising focus has shifted to aiding the family as it deals with this loss.

“It is with deep regret the officers of the Echo Hose Hook & Ladder Co.1 announce the passing of past Lt. Christopher “Opie” Skurat ,” said company Capt. Mike Plavcan. “Opie passed away early this morning after bravely battling Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma since the summer of 2017. He is survived by his wife Carla, his two sons Jake and Ryan, his mother Donna, and sisters Gretchen and Karen.”

Plavcan stated in his post to “please keep the Skurat family in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.”

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The DiMatteo Group in Shelton made the holidays much brighter for area families in need. Pictured are Emily Granelli, chief business development officer at BHcare, far left, and Cynthia Bannon, donor relations specialist at BHcare, far right, with Zaibel Torres of Bridgeport, second from left, and Rosemarie Esposito of Shelton, second from right, who delivered the donation on behalf of the DiMatteo Group.

The DiMatteo Group in Shelton made the holidays much brighter for area families in need. The company’s staff — more than 25 employees strong — granted 26 wishes, purchasing a variety of gifts that were distributed through “Under the Tree” Program of BHcare in Ansonia.

Rosemarie Esposito of Shelton and Zaibel Torres of Bridgeport, both from the DiMatteo Group, delivered goodwill and gifts at Assumption Church in Ansonia, the drop-off site.

“Our company was founded on the spirit of giving back to the community, especially this time of year, when we generously support local families,” said John DiMatteo, president of DiMatteo Group. “Throughout the year, our company and family foundation are involved in a variety of ongoing philanthropic projects.”

Founded more than 58 years ago, DiMatteo Group is a family-owned and operated business specializing in insurance, employee benefits, income tax and financial services.

“Thirteen years ago, we established the DiMatteo Family Charitable Foundation and an annual golf tournament,” said DiMatteo. “The foundation was established as a tribute to our late father who was battling cancer at the time. Since then, we have contributed more than $376,000 for various well-known local and national charities that fund research, education and finding a cure for diseases.”

“Each year BHcare looks forward to working with the DiMatteo Group,” said Tammy Burrell, chairman of the holiday drive and treasurer of the BHcare board of directors. “This annual gesture of kindness makes a tremendous difference in the lives of the local families we serve. The DiMatteo Group exemplifies the true holiday spirit of giving to others.”

BHcare is a state-licensed, non-profit behavioral health care provider serving the lower Naugatuck Valley, greater New Haven and shoreline communities. For more than 37 years, BHcare — through its founding organizations, Birmingham Group Health Services and Harbor Health Services — has been providing hope and help for individuals, families and children affected by mental illness, domestic violence and substance abuse.

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Mayor Mark Lauretti speaks prior to last Wednesday’s production of The Polar Express at Center Stage Theatre. — Brian Gioiele photo

The Polar Express streamed through Center Stage Theatre last Wednesday, but not before Shelton’s own Santa Claus presented a special gift to the production’s organizers.

The Kennedy Center’s Project Impact and Project Advance — two of the center’s Community Experience Programs based in Shelton that assist adults with intellectual disabilities — put on the holiday classic in front of dozens of family members and friends.

Mayor Mark Lauretti presents a donation check to Project Impact’s Terry McIntosh prior to last Wednesday’s production of The Polar Express at Center Stage Theatre. — Brian Gioiele photo

But the celebration was made more memorable as Mayor Mark Lauretti presented two checks — each for $5,000 — to The Kennedy Center.

“I know the people who are going to be the recipient of (the donations) are well-deserving,” said Lauretti after presenting the check to Project Impact’s Terry McIntosh. “I’ve always admired the work that The Kennedy Center has done.

“I’ve always supported the non-profits, not just in Shelton but in our region,” added Lauretti. “I think it is important to do that. The city of Shelton also has a line item in its budget to help support the efforts of The Kennedy Center. That happens on an annual basis. We’re happy to do that. We’re happy to support people who provide a benefit to other people in our society.”

Lauretti has been involved with The Kennedy Center for several decades and regularly gives a major gift to The Kennedy Center from the Mayor’s Golf Tournament. This year’s contribution will be earmarked for The Kennedy Center Social Enterprises.

But the surprise came moments after Lauretti presented the first check when the longtime mayor told those in attendance that — with campaign funds left over from his governor’s run — he was able to donate those extra dollars to 501(c)3 organizations of his choice. With that, Lauretti said he was donating $5,000 to St. Vincent’s Special Needs and another $5,000 to The Kennedy Center.

And with donations in hand, everyone’s attention was turned to The Polar Express.

“This really allows them to show off the skills they have — they practice lines, where they’re supposed to be on stage,” said Barb Anton, supervisor of Community Experience Programs, about the production. “They just get to have fun showing off some of the things they have learned. We’re all so proud of them.”

Anton specifically cited Micheala, The Polar Express narrator, who got to display her reading ability. One of Micheala’s volunteer jobs is reading to children in the library, and this production provided her the chance to show off some of the skills she has developed.

Another performer Anton cited was Saleem, who is non-verbal. But that has not stopped him from performing, as he now uses a computer as a communication tool through which he can read using that device.

The Kennedy Center, founded in 1951, is an internationally accredited, non-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that currently supports over 2,000 individuals annually. The agency actively responds to the needs of the community by offering innovative, comprehensive service opportunities to persons with disabilities and special needs, from birth to senior years.

The Kennedy Center operates 31 community experience programs, 17 group homes, and six Social Enterprise businesses, supported and competitive employment and job placement services, family support, travel training, and a variety of children’s programs.

Community Experience Programs, also referred to as Day Support Options (DSOs), are located in various neighborhood settings and support small groups of individuals who have disabilities. Each program emphasizes the development of an appropriate skill base to expand learning, choice-making and inclusion within each person’s local community.

Gary Scarpa, director of Center Stage Theatre, offered up his stage for the second year in a row for the Project Impact and Project Advance  holiday production.

“This is such a wonderful opportunity for all of them,” said Scarpa about the performers.

Scarpa, a former guidance counselor at Shelton High, said he knows four of the people from his time at the school and praises The Kennedy Center for providing opportunities for them to get out in community.

“We have people from the programs coming in here (to Center Stage) once or twice a month to help set up for our performances,” said Scarpa.

Anton said these Kennedy Center programs are designed to teach people skills to teach independence and independence in the workforce.

“People are able to advance their work skills, their social skills,” said Anton. “These programs teach them.to be a person … it gives them an identity, helps them develop friendships, self confidence.”

Project IMPACT focuses on community engagement, navigation of community resources and the identification of new community interests and connections. On a weekly basis, each participant will be involved in community volunteering, recreation, social skills, accessing learning environments and discovering new venues of interest.

Anton said typical settings may include local coffee houses, libraries, college campus, fitness centers, hiking trails, non-profit entities and local lunch options.

Project ADVANCE (Accessing Different Ventures And New Chances to Excel) opened in September 2014 and provides services to individuals in their younger years that want to be active and involved in their community. Activities include both volunteer and recreational  community activities as well as curriculum and academics that promote functional skill building. Work skills are taught to help individuals achieve eventual employment.

The production of The Polar Express featuring those in The Kennedy Center’s Project Impact and Project Advance programs. Timothy Fountain was the director, writer and producer, with Keysha Evans as director of music and song; Amber Grover as stage manager; and Gabrielle Kirton as assistant stage manager. Center Stage donated its Grove Street stage. — Brian Gioiele photos

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The Connecticut State Police was on duty this holiday week with increased patrols that began at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 and continued until December 26, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. Troopers patrolled roads and highways across Connecticut focusing on drivers operating under the influence of alcoholic beverages and/or drugs as well as violations committed by aggressive drivers.

The following State Police statistics cover the time period starting at midnight on Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018:

• Speeding violations: 659
• Seatbelt violations: 14
• Other hazardous violations: 46 (to include unsafe lane change, following too closely, cell phone usage, texting, failure to signal, etc.)
• DUI arrests: 55
• Accidents investigated: 550; w/injury: 60; fatalities: 3; Calls for service: 8435

2017 State Police stats, midnight on Dec. 22, 2017, through Dec. 26, 2017 at 11:59 p.m.:

• Speeding: 465
• Seatbelt: 13
• Total violations: 1,104 (to include unsafe lane change, following too closely, cell phone, texting, speeding, etc.)
• DUI ARREST: 28
• Accidents: 521; Investigated: 302; With injury: 58; Fatal: 1; Motorist assists: 409; Total calls for service: 6,737

The post Connecticut State Police holiday statistics 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 on New Year’s Day, Tuesday, Jan. 1.

Both libraries will be closed early on Monday, Dec. 31, at 2 p.m., and closed Tuesday, Jan. 1, in observance for New Year’s Day. Both libraries will reopen for normal business hours on Wednesday, Jan. 2.

There will be no trash and recycling collection on 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, Jan. 1.

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For Heidi Aleman, the Echo Hose Ambulance Community Educational Center is a true gift.

The center — located on the former St. Joseph School campus on Coram Avenue — has become home not only for the Echo Hose Ambulance Co. but also numerous programs designed to educate department members and the community at large.

Aleman, the health technology department head at Emmett O’Brien Technical High School, and some 20 10th graders learned the benefit of having such a facility last Wednesday when they attended the Stop the Bleed program, taught by Echo Hose Ambulance Co. members.

Madison Dirgo, left, and Kendyl Auddino display the proper application of a tourniquet. — Brian Gioiele photo

“This facility is amazing for introducing them to emergency responders, introduction to EMT,” said Aleman. “(The students) do get first aid training in 10th grade, but this is step above. All ready I’ve heard students say they want to come back.”

Aleman said this facility offers the space necessary for intensive training, and the proximity of the Coram Avenue location is key for schools such as Emmett O’Brien Technical School when traveling to the site.

“Today, they learned the ABCs of how to respond to a traumatic injury … what to do first,” said Aleman. “They learned different techniques to control bleeding — packing, compressions, tourniquet application. They learned how to activate EMS, what to do when on the phone with a dispatcher. I believe being here today helped to inspire them to learn more.”

Along with Echo Hose Ambulance Co., the building also houses Center Stage Theater and the TEAM, Inc., toy store (see separate article on page 1A).

This facility was opened in September with the help of $15,000 grant from the Katharine Matthies Foundation and a donation of furniture and equipment from the R.D. Scinto Co. The center offers training for EMS, fire and police departments throughout the Naugatuck Valley and the rest of the state as well as providing public community trainings, and a place for nonprofits to gather.

“We’re starting to get amazing forward progress,” said Echo Hose Chief Michael Chaffee about the center. “Our old center had space, but it was limited in space. This new center has given us a wealth of options, multiple programs at once. We’ve had tremendous support.”

The Echo Hose Ambulance holds community health education and EMS programs at the center, and adults can take free “hands only” CPR training, bleeding control training, a Narcan administration class, or the Hidden in Plain Sight program for parents looking for signs of underage drinking or drug use.

“There’s a real synergy here,” said Chaffee, adding that he hopes to see programming expand. “We just want to keep getting the word out about all the good that is happening here. There is the Stop the Bleed program, Narcan training, support groups for people in community who are struggling, opportunities for people to learn and enhance their skills. We really want this place used every day.”

Echo Hose Ambulance is a non-profit organization that has served Shelton since 1949. Echo Hose Ambulance expects to respond to an estimated 5,100 calls this year, an increase of 8% from the previous year. The seven ambulances are staffed 24/7 by 130 volunteers, 30 per-diem staff and five full-time employees.

The center is presently used by the Valley United Way; the CARES group holds weekly meetings; TEAM, Inc. has its toy store on site and there are programs being run by the Shelton Youth Service Bureau, Veterans Hospital and BH Health Care. There are also Naugatuck Valley Health District/Medical Reserve Corps, Department of Homeland Security and FEMA funded programs for first responders from all over the state, including Shelton’s police, fire and emergency management services.

Echo Hose Ambulance Co. is always seeking new volunteers. For more information, visit ambulance.echohose.org/volunteer-with-us. For more information on the Echo Hose Ambulance Community Educational Center, or to register for classes, visit echohose.com.

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Bridget is a 1-year-old spayed female cat. She came to the shelter with three little kittens who have found new homes. Bridget did a great job raising her kittens and is now ready for her new home. She is a very sweet, loving cat.

Visit Bridget and other cats and dogs available for adoption at Trumbull Animal Shelter, 324 Church Hill Road, or call 203-452-5088 for more information.

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Connecticut State Troopers remind motorists that planning and responsible driving will lead to safer road trips for those driving over the New Year’s holiday.

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 while tens of thousands of drivers take to Connecticut roads. Troopers ask that motor vehicle operators put traffic laws into practice to prevent accidents and save lives, so they remind all drivers to:

• 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.

State police will operate roving patrols and conduct DUI checkpoints starting Dec. 28, 2018, and continuing through Jan. 2, 2019. See the following list of patrols and checkpoints:

Troop A

• Dec. 30 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — DUI Sobriety Checkpoint — Route 67 and intersection of Mountain Road, Oxford.
• Dec. 27-Jan 2 — 7 p.m.-4 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols from greater Waterbury area to greater Danbury area.

Troop C

• Dec. 29 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop C towns.
• Dec. 31 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop C towns.

Troop D

• Dec. 28 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop D towns.
• Dec. 30 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop D towns.
• Spot Check: Dec. 29, 2018, from 7 p.m. to Dec. 30, 2018, at 4 a.m. at Route 44 in East Putnam, in the vicinity of Route 21.

Troop E

• Dec. 29 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop E towns.
• Dec. 31 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop E towns.

Troop F

• Dec. 28 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — DUI Sobriety Checkpoint — Route 66 between Jackson hill Road and Peters Lane, Middlefield.
• Dec. 29 — Roving DUI enforcement patrols — Interstate 95 and Route 9.
• Dec. 30 — Roving DUI enforcement patrols — Interstate 95 and Route 9.

Troop I

• Dec. 28 — Between 8 p.m.-4 a.m. — Interstate 691 in Meriden area near Interstate 91.

Troop K

• Dec. 28 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m.  — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop K towns.
• Jan. 1 — 7 p.m.-3 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on highways & rural roads in Troop K towns.

Troop L

• Jan. 2 — 7 p.m.-4 a.m. — Roving DUI enforcement patrols on Routes 4, 6, 7, 8, 45, 47, 61, 63, 64, 72, 109, 132, 202, 254, 341.

The post CT State Troopers prepare for New Year’s highway enforcement appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Arlene Powell, Mary Ann Kubilus, Jean Abromaitis, Martha Bova, Florence Cataudella, Margie Couture, Sharon Tylinski, and Lucille and Ted Borowy. — Brian Gioiele photo

A full house spent the afternoon dining on delicious food and dancing to classic hits Friday at the Shelton Senior Center’s annual holiday party. Dinner featured lively conversation with cheese raviolis, meatballs, sausage, salad and desserts. Paula Pettinella of “Music At Its Best” entertained the crowd with her lyrical talents.

Maggie Nelson, left, Scarlet Saddler and Vincent Ribeiro enjoy the holiday meal. — Brian Gioiele photo

Glen and Bernice Homa.

Gerry and Lorraine Janovsky hit the dance floor. — Brian Gioiele photo

Deborah Bourdoulous, left, and Mary Ann Choquette. — Brian Gioiele photo

The post Seniors dine, dance the day away appeared first on Shelton Herald.

Shelton police are investigating an accident on Dec. 28 involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, who is now stable after being in critical condition.

Police and emergency medical personnel responded to Howe Avenue at Grove Street about 5:30 p.m. on a report of a crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.

“The 83-year-old pedestrian, a Shelton resident, was transported to the hospital and was listed in critical condition at that time,” said police. “The 68-year-old driver, also from Shelton, remained on scene.”

Police did not identify either individual involved.

The traffic division is investigating this crash, according to police, but no enforcement action has been taken at this time. Anyone who may have witnessed this crash is asked to call the department at (203) 924-1544.

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