New Signs Arrive in All America Valley

The Fourth of July brings with it a new look for the Valley as signs for each of the seven partner communities in the Valley's winning All America effort were unveiled by delegates on the Division Street border between Ansonia and Derby. Many members of the delegation who had attended the competition were on hand as each of the Valley communities received their community signs, erected the first one on the mini-park at the entrance to Derby from Ansonia, and then retreated to an All America luncheon hosted by the McDonald's a little farther down the road on Division Street in Derby.

Delegation leader Bill Powanda and Derby Mayor Marc Garofalo proudly assembled the first sign and then representatives of each of the other towns spoke of the meaning that the award would have for their communities. The brief speaking program adjourned to McDonald's were the delegates were treated to Big Macs and more as the Derby Senior Center Glee Club serenaded the delegates concluding with a lusty rendition of "Danny Boy" as Mayor Garofalo took over the keyboard to lead the performance. A letter of congratulations from Mayor DeStefano of New Haven was also read. New Haven was an All America City for the second time in 1998.

The delegates wish to express their thanks to Jill and Hassan Dana, owners of the Derby McDonald's, for their kindness and hospitality in hosting the All America sign unveiling and to the Derby Senior Center Glee Club for their singing.