Committee Seeks Town Support for Shaumpishuh Statue
By Aaron Rubin
Staff Writer
A grassroots group known as the Shaumpishuh Statue Committee is working to shine a light on the legacy of one of Guilford’s foundational yet often overlooked figures. The committee hopes to honor Shaumpishuh, the 17th-century sachem of
the Menunkatuck tribe, with a statue in a prominent location in town.
Shaumpishuh was the leader of the Menunkatuck, a small band of the larger Quinnipiac people who inhabited the New Haven region. In 1639, she peacefully negotiated land agreements with English settlers that paved the way for the towns of Guilford and Madison. While she and her tribe are
acknowledged on a sign posted on the Guilford Town Green, the committee hopes a statue will elevate her legacy in a lasting, visible way.
“Shaumpishuh, sachem of the Menunkatuck, is in danger of fading from Guilford memory, but without her support
See Committee Seeks page 4
Connecticut State Champion Guilford Little League softball defeated New Hampshire 9-0 on July 20 in their first game of the New England Regional Tournament at Bristol's A. Bartlett Giamatti Little League Complex. The tournament determines which team will represent New England in the Little League World Series.
PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ TheCourier
By Pam Johnson
Sound Senior Staff Writer
For Don Bonato, helping St. George Knights of Columbus (K of C) Council 3928 host the St. George Church Carnival has been one of his favorite volunteer activities since the early days of the event.
Person of the Week Bonato Helps K of C Host St. George Church Carnival Aug. 5 - 9
In fact, that’s where you’ll find him, beginning Tuesday, Aug. 5 and continuing through Saturday, Aug. 9, when the 50th annual St. George Church Carnival brings its great food and carnival rides to the grounds of Guilford’s St. George Church, 33 Whitfield Street. Each night, the food tent opens at 5:30 p.m. and rides by operator Tufano Amusement Inc. start at 6 p.m. Entry to the carnival, as always, is free. Ride wristbands can be purchased at the carnival, as well as tickets per ride.
Don has been an active volunteer with the carnival since the early 1970’s and has been a member of the K of C for about 25 years. He first started helping with the carnival shortly after moving to Guilford in the fall of 1972 with his wife, Jean, and their first baby. That was about a year
after the Army veteran returned stateside in 1971 from being stationed in South Korea. The couple raised their two sons in Guilford.
“At the time, I was working at the VA in West Haven as a microbiologist, and there were gas shortages, so I started carpooling with a bunch of people who worked at the VA hospital,” Don says. “One of the fellows was a Knight. He knew I was a parishioner of St. George Church, and he asked me if I could come and help out with the parish carnival.”
Don’s first job put him on the food service line in the fried dough pizza booth.
See Bonato page 8
days of the event. The 50th annual carnival takes place Aug. 5 - 9 this year on the church grounds.
Photo courtesy of Don Bonato
For Don Bonato, helping St. George Knights of Columbus (K of C) Council 3928 host the St. George Church Carnival in Guilford has been one of his favorite volunteer activities since the early
Clinching a Title
Big Stage Stars
“She’s clearly the basketball leader at Guilford right now, and obviously she’s got a lot more to learn, but she certainly has the head and the talent to clearly make a difference in the program.”
Committee Seeks Town Support for Shaumpishuh Statue
Continued from page 1
our town and Madison would not be located where they are,” the committee said in a statement.
The group’s goal is to place the statue in a “prominent site in central Guilford,” with the Town Green cited as the ideal location. Committee secretary Ellen Creane added that the statue would carry “national significance,” noting that fewer than 10 percent of statues in the U.S. depict women.
First Selectman Matt Hoey expressed support for the project and encouraged residents to learn more about Shaumpishuh and her role in negotiating the agreement for land that now includes both Guilford and Madison.
“Someone who played such a prominent role in the establishment of our town should be recognized,” Hoey said.
The project has gained support from Connecticut-based historians, academic institutions, and Guilford Town Historian Joel Helander. Tribal leaders have also voiced their backing, including Shoran Waupatuquay Piper, leader of the Golden Hill Paugussett Nation.
“Having her statue put up in the town where her and her tribal people lived, hunted, fished, and gave birth—and fought some wars, including the plague of sicknesses—would be an honor,” Piper said. “So all know the back story of the land they live on, work on, go to school on.”
Scholar and artist Deborah Spears Moorehead, a member of the Seaconke Pokanoket Wampanoag Tribal Nation and an advisor to the committee, said the statue would also serve an educational purpose.
SummerCampforFutureArtists
“It will be a significant statement of the importance of Shaumpishuh’s life as a woman in a leadership role,” Moorehead said. “A matrilineal society is traditional in Eastern Woodland Tribal Nation Algonquin-speaking culture. The history of Shaumpishuh’s life will inform the public of the local history representing Native Americans before English settlement.”
Creane echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the potential for the statue to become a gathering place for learning.
“If the statue is placed in a really accessible location, it could be a place where groups can gather, and they can educate the youth and newcomers and tourists,” she said.
The committee is currently seeking a sculptor for the project and envisions a bronze statue designed by a woman of Indigenous heritage.
In the meantime, members have been reaching out to community and historical organizations in the region to build broader support ahead of a scheduled meeting with the Board of Selectmen in September.
“We’ve been reaching out to community groups and the different historical groups in the surrounding area,” said committee president Jim Powers. “We’ve also begun the process of reaching out to our state representatives. When we go to [the BOS], we want to be able to say, ‘These are the people in the community who support us. This is a community effort.’”
A public-facing campaign is expected to launch this fall, along with a website that will share more details on the project.
The Branford Arts and Cultural Alliance (BACA) invites children ages 8 to 12 to enroll in its morning summer art camp where they will learn the fundamentals of watercolor painting and work on creative, age-appropriate projects. The camp will be held at the BACA Gallery, 1004 Main Street, Branford, and will run 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. from Monday, Aug. 11, through Saturday, Aug. 16. The camp will be followed by a students’ art show on Aug. 16, from 3 to 4 p.m. at the BACA Gallery. The camp costs $25 per child. The reduced rate is made possible by grants from the Branford Community Foundation and donors to the Great Give 2025. All art supplies will be provided. To register, contact Sharon Hart at 203-671-8957 or shart0316@gmail.com. For more information, visit branfordarts.org.
GUILFORD TOWN MEETINGS
NOTE: Call the town clerk at 203-453-8001 or visit the Guilford town website at www.guilfordct.gov to learn how to participate in the following meetings:
Tuesday,July29 Design Review Committee Special Meeting
: 4 p.m.
Obituaries
Obituary
Otto Sidarweck Jr. Guilford
On July 11, 2025, Otto J. "O. J." Sidarweck, Jr., a longtime resident of Guilford, passed away at home. O.J. was born in Bridgeport on Sept. 21, 1972, son of Judy A. (Skurja) Sidarweck and the late Otto J. Sidarweck, Sr.
O.J. is preceded in death by his sister, Tara Cirillo, and his father, Otto Sidarweck. Survivors include his mother, Judy Sidarweck; his sister, Kristina (Mark) Vail; his nephew, Timothy Vail; his nieces, Samantha Vail and Emma Vail; his great niece, Delilah Vail-Duffy; and his life partner and best friend, Heidi Kunst of Madison. He also leaves
Obituary
Lois Phelan
Guilford
behind many cherished cousins, aunts, and uncles.
O.J. is a 1990 graduate of Guilford High School and received his bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University in 1994. He had worked for Autumn Lake Nursing Center in Madison as their director of maintenance. He found joy in spending time with loved ones, working on his car, being out on the salt water, listening to music, and caring for his beloved pets.
Friends are invited to a Mass of Christian burial, which will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at St. George Church, 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford. Burial services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter, 749 E. Main St, Branford, CT 06405; (www.branfordct.gov/departments/animal-shelter).
To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com
ston Paper Box Company in New Haven, where she proudly ran the show until she became a mother.
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On July 8, 2025, Lois V. Phelan, longtime resident of Guilford, passed away at home. Wife (73 years!) of Harold R. Phelan, Jr. Mrs. Phelan was born in West Haven on April 25, 1931, daughter of the late Joseph and Blanche (Medley) Voets. She was the loving mother of Lisa Schwoerke and her husband, Karl, of Burlington, and Hal Phelan III of West Haven.
She is also survived by her grandchildren, Keiran P. Schwoerke of San Diego, California, and Hunter (Rebecca) P. Schwoerke of Bristol; and her greatgranddaughter, Sawyer. Her youngest sister, Cynthia Voets Rovasio, resides in Avon. Lois was predeceased by her siblings, Kathryn Voets Currie, Joseph Voets, and Richard Voets.
Mrs. Phelan is a 1948 graduate of West Haven High School and a 1950 graduate of Stone Business Academy. She had worked as a bookkeeper for several companies, including the Clark-
She treasured the company of all her family members and her friends, cooking and hosting holiday meals, and making “Hankie Pankies” for her grandsons! Lois was busy; she cherished her friends and her many activities with the Guilford Senior Center. She loved crafting and playing bridge and mahjong there. She was an active member of the St. Martha’s Group at St. George’s and the New Haven Council of Catholic Women. She purchased her first computer when she was 75 and loved to send the funny emails that used to make the rounds. She learned how to "Zoom" during COVID!
Friends were invited to a visiting hour on July 12 at Guilford Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at St. George Church, 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford. Burial followed at Alder Brook Cemetery, 375 Boston Street, Guilford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598; www.guidingeyes.org, or CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405; www.hospice.com. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.
page 9
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Food Bank Braces SNAP Reduction Impact
Staff Writer By Aaron Rubin
A sweeping federal bill passed earlier this month is expected to cause ripple effects across the country, including at the Guilford Food Bank.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed by Congress in July, mandates $186 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) over the next nine years. That reduction, says Guilford Food Bank Director Donna Grieder, will likely increase demand at local food banks like Guilford’s, located at 45 Stone House Lane.
“Essentially, food banks are going to have more responsibility for food insecurity,” Grieder tells the Courier. “People [will] start losing their benefits or getting their benefits decreased. That means more usage at our food bank.”
Grieder says the food bank currently averages “about 20 families a week” who come seeking assistance and expects that number to rise as cuts take effect. She anticipates increased demand will require volunteers to purchase more food from both local and regional sources, including the Connecticut Food Bank. However, Grieder worries that state-level providers
LEGAL NOTICE
Guilford Inland Wetlands Commission
The Inland Wetlands Enforcement Officer took the following action:
APPROVED: Gregory McCarthy, located at 418 Colonial Road, Guilford, Connecticut, Map 4, Lot 27-03, Regulated Activity, Renovation of an existing back porch, removal of brick patio; Deck with crushed stone, sleepers and footings within Guilford Inland Wetlands Commission 100-foot upland jurisdiction review area of a wetland and or watercourse.
Dated at Guilford Connecticut this 9th day of July, 2025. Jeff Parker, Chairman
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF Wendy R. Skelton (25-0205)
The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated July 8, 2025, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.
Nicole Malerba, Assistant Clerk
The fiduciary is:
David C. Skelton
c/o CHRISTIAN P EDMONDS, CHRISTIAN P. EDMONDS, 52 HARRISON AVE, P. 0. BOX 807, BRANFORD, CT 06405
LEGAL NOTICE
GUILFORD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Notice is hereby given that the Guilford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a VIRTUAL Public Hearing
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 10 AM via the ZOOM platform by using the following link. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6396320192
Meeting ID: 639 632 0192
The following application will be heard:
262 Sachems Head Road (Map 15 Lot 4A, Zone R-5). Applicant/Agent: Jason Miconi of Porticoni Industries LLC on behalf of Owner: Taryn Keely-Doran (Board President) of Community Nursery School, Inc. Special Permit to expand a Child Care Center in a residential zone.
Copies of these applications are available for inspection in the Planning & Zoning office and on the town’s website. At this hearing, persons may attend via web connection and shall be heard. All written correspondence shall be submitted to planning.zoning@guilfordct.gov 24 hours prior to the meeting day. Documents are available at the Planning & Zoning office. Dial 203-453-8039 for assistance.
Dated at Guilford, Connecticut this 17th of July 2025 – Sean Cosgrove, Chairman
may also be impacted by the new law.
“There’s a trickle-down effect,” she says. “If the Connecticut Food Bank gets fewer resources, we’ll see less food available on our end, too.”
To help meet the potential demand, Grieder encourages the public to donate what they can—whether food, toiletries, or financial contributions.
“Monetary donations are incredibly helpful,” she says. “We can use them to buy paper goods, pet food, and toiletries, which SNAP doesn’t cover. Those are a good addition for families who already have so many needs.”
While the long-term impact of the federal cuts remains to be seen, Grieder says early indications are concerning. According to national estimates, as many as 5 million Americans could lose all or part of their SNAP benefits under the new law. She fears this could increase food insecurity, lead to negative health outcomes, and undermine the local economic stimulus SNAP typically provides.
“SNAP money gets spent in our grocery stores,” she says. “It supports local businesses. This affects more than just the people receiving benefits.”
In addition to slashing SNAP funding, the new legislation also requires states to
SignUpforthePorchfest
shoulder a larger share of the program’s cost. That could shift billions of dollars from Washington, D.C. to Hartford—putting pressure on Connecticut’s already-tight budget. At the same time, new restrictions and changes to eligibility and work requirements could make it harder for residents to apply or remain enrolled.
“There’s going to be a lot of administrative changes,” Grieder warns. “I’m afraid people will slip through the cracks—not because they don’t qualify, but because it becomes too hard to navigate. When things become more difficult, people tend to not follow through.”
She adds, “With the cuts in general and then how difficult the process will be, we will become that much busier and dependent on the food.”
To prepare for what could be a significant increase in need, the Guilford Food Bank is continuing its fundraising efforts and community food drives. Volunteers are hopeful that residents will continue to support the work.
“Donor support will hopefully rise in this crazy time,” says Grieder. For information on how to help or donate, visit the town’s website or call the food bank directly.
The second annual Guilford Porchfest celebrating the musical creativity of those who live and work in Guilford is scheduled for Saturday. Sept. 6, from noon to 5 p.m. Last year, more than 40 performers, 20 hosts, and 1,000 attendees joined the inaugural event. Any performer who lives or works in Guilford can sign up to perform. Anyone living within a 10-minute walk of the Guilford Green can apply to be a host for the event. Sign-ups close Thursday, July 31. For more information or to sign up, email guilfordporchfest@gmail.com or visit guilfordporchfest.com.
LEGAL NOTICE
All persons liable to pay real estate, personal property, or motor vehicle taxes in the Town of Guilford on the grand list of October 1, 2024 are hereby notified that the Tax Collector has received the warrant to levy and collect taxes.
Taxes are due July 1, 2025 and the last day to pay taxes without penalty is August 1, 2025. If payment is not received on or before August 1, 2025 the installment becomes delinquent and is subject to interest at the rate of 18% per annum, 1 ½%per month or any fraction of a month, from due date. A minimum of $2.00 interest will be charged for each delinquent tax bill and installment.
Payments will be received in the Tax Office, Guilford Town Hall, 31 Park Street. Please note that we do not accept credit/debit cards when making payments at the Tax Office.
Please visit our website at guilfordct.gov to make payments online. The link can be found on the Tax Collector page, scroll down to View or Pay your tax bill. If paying with a credit/debit card convenience fees will apply as follows: all credit/debit cards- 2.99%, electronic check-$1.99
Payments can also be mailed to: Tax Collector, 31 Park Street, Guilford, CT 06437. Make sure you enclose your payment coupon when paying by mail. Please call the Tax Office with any questions at 203-453-8014. Deborah A. Milano Tax Collector, CCMC
Sunday, August 3rd at 4:00 PM
The Morgan School Auditorium 71 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton, CT
Over the past half-century, Béla Fleck has exploded the parameters of the banjo, taking his staggering musicality to inspired blends of bluegrass, fusion, folk, jazz, classical, global music and more. In the process he’s won 19 Grammy Awards and rightfully earned a reputation as one of our most brilliant instrumentalists. Fleck’s new all-star trio with harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer Antonio Sánchez, features instrumentation that might safely be called uncommon. The harpist hails from Bogotá, Colombia, and has collaborated with artists such as Wynton Marsalis and Sting. Five-time Grammy-winner Sánchez grew up in Mexico City and built a reputation as one of the great jazz drummers through his work with guitarist Pat Metheny.
Bonato Helps K of C Host
St.
George Church Carnival Aug. 5 -
Continued from page 2
“Well, I ended up in that booth making pizza until about 2010,” says Don, laughing.
Along the way, Don became a K of C member and helped in other areas of the annual carnival, including working at the food booth cash register, helping with ticket sales, then assisting with finances. In 2010, he became Treasurer for East Creek Landing Banquet Hall, which is managed by the Knights. The popular Guilford property is located at 390 South Union Street.
“It’s a place for us to meet and have social events, and we have Bingo every Monday night, which raises funds to support the property and also to donate to our various charities. We also run annual fish frys to raise funds,” Don explains. “We try to stay active because there are so many causes and people that need help.”
When it comes to running the carnival, it takes a lot of volunteers and a lot of work. One additional effort taking place all four days is the parishioner-supported, huge White Elephant Tag Sale inside the St. George Church Hall.
“It’s one of the largest and best-run tag sales that I’ve ever been to,” says Don. “They only take in good quality stuff, and it’s been a big fundraiser.”
Also, all four days of the carnival, look for K of C members and parishioners selling tickets for the K of C raffle. Each $5 raffle ticket is a chance to win one of three $1,000 prizes. The three drawings will be held on Saturday. Aug. 9 at 9 p.m. at the carnival. Each year, the K of C dedicates raffle proceeds to two charitable causes. This year’s raffle proceeds will benefit East Shoreline Catholic Academy (based in Branford and serving the shoreline); and the Baldwin Playground Project at Guilford’s Baldwin Middle School.
About 39 years ago, the K of C stepped up to run the parish carnival, ensuring the carnival would continue to assist the church with its fundraising, as well as to help with charitable causes of the K of C. Proceeds from food sales, the White Elephant Tag Sale, and a percentage received from carnival ride sales are combined and split equally as church and K of C fundraising.
As an active member of St. George Parish, Don has been a member of the church choir since the mid-1970s, bringing his rich tenor/baritone to its collective vocals. He also sang for about 10 years
9
with the Branford Chorale, as well as assisting North Branford’s St. Augustine Church as a choir member.
“When one of our [St. George’s] priests went to St. Augustine, he asked a couple of us in the choir to help get the music program up and running, so I was able to help out there for about 10 years,” Don says. “At that time, they had a little volunteer group that went around singing at nursing and retirement homes, from about North Haven to Madison and a little further beyond. We did that once a week, and it was very rewarding. It just cheered the people up.”
After 35.5 years in the microbiology research/clinical lab at the VA, Don retired 19 years ago, the same time his wife, a registered nurse of 30 years, retired. Retirement became an opportunity for both of them to become even more involved in charitable work.
Due to Jean’s volunteer work with New Haven-based nonprofit St. Gianna Pregnancy Resource Center, Don and Jean recently co-chaired a very successful fundraising drive at St. George to benefit St. Gianna’s.
“We’d bring in four, five, six huge plastic bins with empty baby bottles to the church, and people would take the bottles home and put in their spare change or whatever they could afford to give, and then bring them back the next week,” Don says.
The effort drove in donations, which led to earning fundraising matches from the State K of C council and National K of C council.
“Last year, the St. George parish, along with these other donations, came to just slightly over $10,000 in funds raised,” says Don. “It was very successful.”
Don also enjoys putting in time to assist programs of Guilford Interfaith Volunteers. One Friday a month, he collects food at the Guilford Food Bank. Every Thursday morning, he’s at Charlie’s Closet, which provides gently used medical equipment, for free, to shoreline residents in need.
At the St. George Church Carnival, Don and many K of C members will be busy all four days, together with many parish volunteers. Everyone is pulling together so that the event’s proceeds can benefit the church and charitable K of C causes.
“It’s one of our largest fundraisers, and we’re very glad that it’s something that so many people continue to support and enjoy,” Don says.
Glinda’s Goodness Shines
Story by Carol Andrecs
With her playful personality and silly antics, Glinda loves to be the center of attention and entertain people. She is a striking tabby who was rescued by Forgotten Felines with her kittens, who have all been adopted. Glinda loves interactive playtime with toys and is always ready and willing to participate. After playing, she will happily curl up in your lap for a quick nap. This gorgeous beauty will get scooped up quickly. Stop by our open house to meet Glinda or apply to adopt her online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.
Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines:
Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and
GrandparentsRaisingGrandchildrenGroup
much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860-669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.
The Estuary, located at 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, holds the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group every fourth Monday at 5:30 p.m. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services clinical staff, the group provides conversation, support, and resources for grandparents who—for a variety of reasons—become parents to their grandchildren. Registration is not required. All area towns are welcome. For more information, contact 860-510-5042 or heather.mcneil@oldsaybrookct.gov.
MealsonWheels
Guilford Meals on Wheels provides a nutritious, midday meal to Guilford residents having trouble preparing well-balanced meals. For more information, call 203-4538359.
MenandWomenInvitedtoLeagueofWomenVoters
The League of Women Voters seeks new members who have an interest in areas such as voter registration, open government, environmental protection, or social policy. The league welcomes women and men of all ages and from all political persuasions. For more information, visit www.lwvct.org.
The North Guilford Cemetery Association is seeking members to assist in the operation and management of Guilford’s oldest cemetery. The North Guilford (“Old North”) Cemetery on the west side of Meeting House Hill dates back to the building of the first church in North Guilford in 1723, with the first burial reportedly occurring in 1727. As the oldest cemetery in Guilford, it was intended to serve the members of the North Guilford Congregational Church and later St. John’s Episcopal Church (1747). The Meeting House Hill Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes this cemetery and the surrounding 19th-century buildings. Maintenance and administration of this ancient burying place would be of interest to those curious about the early history of North Guilford. For more information or to volunteer, call Buster Scranton at 203-457-1304.
Photo by Tracye Mueller
Obituaries
Continued from page 5
Obituary
Rosemary Sulzbach Guilford
Rosemary O’Connell Sulzbach, 78, of Guilford, passed away on June 11, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Michael,; her son John; her grandchildren, Mason, Willy and Ruby; as well as her two sisters, Barbara O’Connell Nowak and Ellen O’Connell McGuirk.
A West Hartford native, Rosemary attended The Oxford School and graduated from Wellesley College as a Wellesley College Scholar.
She and Michael were married on Aug. 16, 1969, and enjoyed a rich life, taking particular pleasure in their son and grandchildren and traveling as a couple all over the world.
She was employed in New Haven for 53 years in challenging administrative positions, first at a major law firm, then at Achievement First charter schools, and for the last 15 years at the New Haven Museum.
Rosemary was a member of the board for the Dorothy Whitfield House, past president of the Wellesley Club of New Haven, first female president of the Madison Beach Club, and treasurer of the Connecticut Food Bank.
A memorial service was held on June 26 at the First Congregational Church of Madison. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Rosemary’s honor to the New Haven Museum by visiting www.newhavenmuseum.org.
Dear Reader,
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the readers of Shore Publishing’s newspapers for your past contributions to our Voluntary Pay efforts. Your generosity has made a significant difference, and we are truly thankful for every donation.
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The Guilford Free Library, 67 Park Street, is hosting its teen summer reading digital scavenger hunt. Participants entering grades 6 to 12 will be emailed a map with locations around town. They are invited to solve the clues online, attend library programs, and read to earn raffle tickets toward prizes at the summer reading finale party on Friday, Aug. 22. For more information or to register (required), drop by the library or call 203-453-8282.
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In 2015, we launched our Voluntary Pay program to help sustain our mission and enhance our resources for even better coverage. Due to the evolving media landscape and rising production costs, we now seek your voluntary contribution to help sustain our publication. Your donation will directly support printing and editorial work, continuing to maintain our editorial independence.
Thanks to your contributions, in 2024, we donated $40,150 worth of advertising space to several non-profit organizations, including Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries and the Community Foundation of Middlesex County. These donations allowed these vital organizations to promote fundraising events that support their initiatives.
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TeenSummerReading DigitalScavengerHunt
Fair Magazine! This gloss-covered guide will include entertainment schedules, food vendors, crafts/exhibitors, kids activities, a map & more!
The publication will be inserted in the Guilford Courier (circulation of 9,600) on September 4, 2025
To advertise, please contact Betsy Lemkin at b.lemkin@shorepublishing.com by Monday, July 28, 2025
This digest-style community guide is produced annually for the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce. Advertising in this widely circulated guide offers your business a unique opportunity to connect with a highly engaged, community-focused audience in Guilford, Branford, North Branford, and Northford.
To advertise, please contact Betsy Lemkin at b.lemkin@shorepublishing.com by Friday, July 25, 2025
what $30,000.00 could mean to your family after you’re gone — cash to help pay your funeral, medical bills or other final expenses.
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SHORELINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SHORELINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Serving the towns of Branford, Guilford, North Branford and Beyond… 2614 Boston Post Road, Guilford, CT 06437 • 203-488-5500 • shorelinechamberct.com
Serving the towns of Branford, Guilford, and North Branford
764 Boston Post Road, Branford • 203-488-5500 • shorelinechamberct.com
The Shoreline Chamber is the trusted business association of the CT Shoreline. Our mission is to foster the visibility and economic success of our member and communities. CHAMBER SIGNATURE EVENTS AND NEWS
Join us at the Shoreline Chamber’s 10th Annual Women of Excellence Awards Luncheon!
Tuesday, Aug. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Woodwinds, Branford
Hosted once again by Ann Nyberg. We’ll be recognizing two outstanding women each from Branford, North Branford, and Guilford.
The 2025 Honorees:
Branford:
Sheryl Morrell - Volunteerism Leadership
Erica Palmer - Youth Sports Leadership
Guilford:
Sarah Bishop DellaVentura - Business & Philanthropic Leadership
Carrie Bishop Healy - Business & Philanthropic Leadership
North Branford:
Marie Diamond - Educational Leadership
Ashley Fernandez - Philanthropic Leadership
Let’s celebrate these amazing women, visit shorelincechamberct. com to purchase your ticket today! Tickets are $50 per person. Emcee: Ann Nyberg, WTNH Anchor
Shoreline Chamber Hosts Summer Night BAsH at Dockside!
The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce is bringing the community together for a night of summer fun at its upcoming Summer Night BAsH!, to be held at Dockside Seafood & Grill in Branford. Event Highlights:
• Scenic Location: Guests will enjoy one of the shoreline’s best sunset views on the Branford River.
• Casual Networking: A relaxed atmosphere perfect for mingling with local business professionals, Chamber members, and community leaders.
• Great Food & Vibes: Dockside’s signature coastal fare and laid-back summer energy set the tone for the evening.
“This event is all about connection and celebration,” said Dee Jacob, Shoreline Chamber President, “and we’re excited to gather at such a stunning local venue.”
$65 a person, visit www.shorelinechamberct.com to purchase your tickets.
Member Ribbon Cuttings, Milestones and Celebratory Events
The Shoreline Chamber held a ribbon cutting for Laveo by Dry Flush, recipient of the Best New Technology Award! Laveo’s innovative, waterless portable toilets are making a global impact—serving off-grid lifestyles, RVers, boaters, truckers, and essential home care needs. We’re proud to celebrate their continued growth and commitment to innovation.
Representing Laveo at the ceremony were Owner Doug Rice and Plant Manager John Chase, who also gave us a behind-the-scenes tour of their impressive facility. Also in attendance were Branford’s First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove, Economic & Business Development Manager Perry Maresca, Chamber President Dee Jacob, Vice President Tina Strell, and Chamber Ambassadors Andy Verderame @cancion_tequila and Michele Moore @branfordneighborsmag. To learn more about their innovative products, visit www.dryflush.com.
The celebration honored the passion, consistency, and shared dedication that have defined the salon’s success. Owner Francine Piscatelli shared this special milestone with her dedicated staff—some of whom have been with her for decades.
In attendance were Branford First Selectman Jaime Cosgrove, Economic & Business Development Manager Perry Maresca, Shoreline Chamber President Dee Jacob, Vice President Tina Strell, and Chamber Ambassadors Matthew Rader from Tech Fix CT and Denise Mangano from East River Energy.
Congratulations on 40 Years!
CT
CT
CT 06471
MexItale Kitchen 2311 Boston Post Road Guilford, CT 06437 Online Design Club 16 Whalers Point East Haven, CT 06512 Quantum-Si 29 Business Park Drive, Suite C Branford, CT 06405
Slothful LLC 118 Coventry Way Guilford, CT 06437
Shoreline Chamber Celebrates Allusions Salon 40 Years in Branford!
Family Faces Off in Week 12 of the Deep River Horseshoe League
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
Fortunately, the Deep River Horseshoe League was able to play Week 12 since the area never got the forecasted thunderstorms. The players had to deal with high humidity, but the cloud cover made play bearable.
Mike Zanelli Jr.’s Diamondbacks scored 302 points in a sweep of Mike Zanelli Sr.’s Giants, and Junior also swept Senior. The Rockies’ slump continued, falling to the Reds 5-1. The Braves set a season scoring record of 355 points, and Frank Rausch’s 170-point series is the league’s new season high. Only the top eight teams have a winning record.
Since 2021 in the annual Father – Son match when Zanelli Sr. has played his son, he had a record of 11-5 in their head-to-head matches. He had outscored Zanelli Jr. 530 points to 478 points but had only been able to split two matches in the previous four meetings. In this week’s match, the max handicap was three points in two of the six games. It was Zanelli Jr.’s turn in Week 12 to show his father how all the training had paid off. The Diamondbacks won the first game by two points, and in the other close game, they won by four points. All the other games were won by double-digits. The team scored 302 points for the first time this season. Zanelli Jr.’s 136-point series was the second highest “A” score. He won all four games in his head-to-head with his father, and his teammates were a major contributor to the sweep. Ted Dubay’s 100point series was his best since week two, and Jim Weselcouch had a season best 66-point series.
When the No. 2 Cards faced the No. 3 Pirates, it afforded both teams big opportunities. The Cards could move into first place, and the Pirates could top 300 points for the sixth time and could be the first team to have all players score over 100 points. However, the Cards’ chances fell by the wayside when they had to use a blind score for Tanner Steeves. Skip Robinson’s Pirates won the first four games by outscoring Kris Toohey’s Cards 217 points-150 points. The Cards managed to win the last two games with Toohey’s 42 points in game five and their 14 handicap points in game six. The Pirates won 4-2 and scored 295 points, as Anthony Conkling’s 87-point series tied for the top “C” division score, and Bob Beckwith’s 102point series was the third highest “B” score. Cards’ Toohey’s 130-point series was his second lowest of the season.
Both winning and losing streaks were on the line in the match between Chip Goodrich’s Reds and Damin Roberts’ Rockies. The Reds were looking to continue their fourmatch win streak, while the Rockies were looking to end their five-match losing streak. Todd Norton subbed for Rockies’ Deb Scully. For the first six weeks of the season, the Rockies were the No. 3 scoring team and were in seventh place, but over the last six weeks, their team average has dropped by 20 points, and they have plummeted from seventh to 16th place in the standings. The first five games of the match were decided by less than five pointsthe Reds won four, and two were by handicap. The Rockies’ lone win was also by handicap. The teams combined for 445 points, which was the second lowest of the season. Reds’ John O’Brien’s 83-point series was the third highest
lows had his season best series: he scored 107 points, he only had one open box in his four games, and he scored on 74% of his tosses (71 of 96). His series was the second leading “B” score. The Rangers won the last game. Layton’s 119-point series was his season best. The Cubs won 4.5-1.5 and are in sixth place. The Rangers are in a tie for
fourth place in the standings.
John Hutra’s Marlins were without Dennis Allen, the league’s second leading “B” scorer, as they faced Todd Nuhn’s Yankees. Pudge Goodrich, who has been inactive this year, substituted for Allen. The max handicap in this match was three points. Hutra, known for starting slow, surprised everyone with 34 points in game one for the Marlins’ first win. They won the second game by one point, as Hutra and Goodrich both had four in the last box. The Yankees won the next two games. Paul Stevens’s ringer in the last box of game four gave the Yankees a one-point win. The Marlins won the last two games. Goodrich showed no signs of rust, as he had a 101-point series. The Marlins won 4-2 and are in eighth place, while the Yankees are in a tie for fourth place.
Emily Taylor, in only her second match, substituted for Tigers’ Ray Smith. The scoring in game one looked as if neither team wanted to win. Tony Cutone and Sheryl Serviss matched 21-point scores, and it was Taylor’s score that was the difference. Serviss’s season best game of 48 points, 15 ringers, and five doubles outscored the Angels in game two. After winning game three, the Angels outscored the Tigers 7-1 in the last box to earn a tie. The teams split the last two games, and the Tigers won 3.5-
Although the White Sox are in last place, they had their best scoring night of the season in their match against Mark Goodale’s Mets. Brady Miller had a season best series of 133 points and game 49 points. Miller was the third leading “A” division scorer. His teammate Brian Walsh’s 87-point series tied for first in the “C” division. The teams alternated with wins/losses for the first four games. Miller’s 49-point game gave them the win in game five. In game six, Mets’ Leif Selander’s single point in the last box gave the Mets the win, and the teams split. Frank Durinick substituted for his brother John Durinick on the Orioles. The Orioles did not win or lose in Week 11, and with this being an even numbered week, they should win. Fortunately, they caught Red Sox’s Bill Beckwith when he was not at his best. He had one of his lowest scoring series of the season, and he only tossed one double. The teams split the first two games, and then the Orioles won the next two which ensured they would not lose the match. Beckwith finally topped 30 points for a win in game five, and the Red Sox also won the last game. The teams split, and the Red Sox are in seventh place. The top eight teams make the playoffs, and the current
For more information regarding the Deep River Horseshoe League, visit www.deeprivershorsehoes.com /contacts.
Photo courtesy of Joe Heery
Pictured are Mike Zanelli Jr. and Mike Zanelli Sr. of the Deep River Horseshoe League.
Guilford Holds Sendoff Rally for State Champion Majors All Star Softball Team
Sports Editor By Gabby Maljanian
The Guilford Little League Majors All Star Softball Team recently won the Connecticut state title. With a roster full of depth and talent, the girls now have their eyes on the East Regional Tournament, facing various clubs from across the Northeast for the chance to represent New England in the Little League World Series.
On July 18, the town of Guilford hosted a send-off celebration for the team at
Adams Middle School. Guilford First Selectman Matthew T. Hoey III presented the girls with certificates, and Guilford Little League board members shared encouraging words in front of the large local crowd. As the team competes against the best that the Northeast has to offer, everyone in the community will be behind the squad.
The state champions began regional play on July 20 at Bristol’s A. Bartlett Giamatti Little League Complex.
Coaching staff for the Guilford Little League Majors All Star Softball Team, including Head Coach Andrea Klein (third from left), applaud as players receive certificates from Guilford First Selectman Matthew Hoey during a July 18 send-off celebration at Adams Middle School. Guilford Little League softball players and supporters gathered before the team's departure for regional competition at Bristol's A. Bartlett Giamatti Little League Complex.
Westbrook Dance Academy Performs at Walt Disney World
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
From June 28 to July 2, 29 students from Westbrook Dance Academy performed at Walt Disney World. The students performed to “I Feel Like Dancing” in the Main Street Parade at Magic Kingdom and the Disney Springs Parade. The students then took to the Epcot stage and performed a high-energy, 10-minute routine that was well received by those in attendance. The trip culminated in a gala at Epcot.
The participating students, under the direction of Julie Reed-Russo, were Olivia Amenta, Alexis Donley, Sophie Furcolo, Mackenzie Gallagher, Sydney Haynes, Luke Heller, Logan Heller, Riley Lindquist, Taylor Lindquist, Adele Merriman, Ava Merriman, and Mia Stowik of Westbrook; Skye Belcher, Audrey Bragg, Avery Bragg, Elijah Bragg, Bridget Johnson, Isabella Johnson, Marlee Lampright, Penny Lampright, Zendaya Morris, Zariyah Morris, Aubrey Meyer, Alexis Nieves, Leila Painter, and Summer Painter of Clinton; Ellie Augiemma of Deep River; Kylie Magee of Guilford; and Vanessa Swanson of Killingworth.
The studio was invited to return to the event in 2026.
Westbrook Dance Academy offers programs for all ages Beginner to Advanced, Recreational, and Competition for all ability levels and ALL ages in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Pointe, HipHop, Acrobatics, and Musical Theater.
For more information on Westbrook Dance Academy or to register for summer or fall classes, call 860-664-4308, email westbrookdanceac@aol.com, or visit westbrookdanceacademy.com.
Pictured are the members of Westbrook Dance Academy that performed at Walt Disney World in (back) David Russo, Audrey Bragg, Aubrey Meyer, Vanessa Swanson, Bridget Johnson, Mia Stowik, Isabella Johnson, Sophie Furcolo, Logan Heller, Riley Lindquist, Julie Reed-Russo; (middle) Sydney Haynes, Olivia Amenta, Avery Bragg, Summer Painter, Leila Painter,
Skye Belcher, Alexis Donley, Elijah Bragg, Luke Heller, Zendaya Morris, Ava Merriman,
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier
Eagleson Shines as Guilford’s Starting Point Guard
By Kellyn Kolber
Special to the Courier
This past winter, Guilford girls’ basketball entered the season with the potential for something great, led by a college-bound point guard, talented returners, and a host of exceptional newcomers. That is, until a wave of injuries threw the season off course, forcing the team to adjust quickly. That’s where Ava Eagleson came in, a skilled freshman who didn’t just survive as a starting varsity point guard, but thrived.
Coaches Fred Ferrie and Thatcher Zuse knew that Ava was a capable basketball player, but they also recognized that playing varsity at that age was no easy task. However, both coaches realized they had something special from the moment Ava stepped into the starting role.
“Game 1: She’s got the spotlight on her. She’s a freshman guard, playing against the older kids, and she doesn’t even flinch,” Assistant Coach Ferrie recalls. “She does the opposite. She just embraces it, and she’s like, ‘Bring it, I’ve been training for this moment.’ Right from there, she just took off like a rocket, and the rest was history.”
Ava is a two-sport athlete, starting as a catcher on the softball team and a point guard on the basketball team. She racked up 300 points while playing nearly every minute of every game this winter, eventually leading her team to qualify for the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) and state tournament. However, Ava’s basketball journey started well before her early days as a Grizzly.
“I started playing when I was
really little,” she says. “I played rec, where my dad was my coach for two or three years, and I just fell in love with it. We even won the rec championship three years in a row.”
Although he no longer coached her once she reached the travel level, Ava’s dad, Kyle Eagleson, continued supporting her athletic career in any way he could, and she is grateful to him because of it.
“I think a huge part of my success comes from my dad,” Ava reflects. “Even in softball, if he’s working from home, he’ll take me and my sister to go hit between work calls. Before basketball games, he’ll take me out and just rebound for me. He always pushes me to 100% even when I’m not feeling my best.”
Ava also credits much of her growth to junior captain Emmy Votto, whose leadership style and grit inspire Ava every day.
“I love playing with her, and she’s another person who always helps me play my best,” Ava says. “She’s like a machine— nonstop. It’s refreshing to play with someone like that, someone who plays hard all the time.”
This past season, learning to play with that intensity couldn’t have been more critical. With a small crew, Ava and her teammates couldn’t afford to take a single play off, even when their bodies were exhausted from play-
A break in the heat spell was a welcome relief, both to lower tidal river and near-shore fishing. Nevertheless, those overcast days did offer opportunities to both offshore and inland anglers. Porgy fishing remained hot, and blue crabbing at times was intense. Some nice blackfish were caught, even in light of a scarcity of crabs, while dogfish catches kept getting better. Near-shore striped bass eased for a short spell but fired back up - especially offshore. Slots remained a challenge, as fishers balked at the number of over-the-slots that had to be released. Short fish were all around, including black sea bass. Keepers were caught, but they tipped the scales at around and up to three pounds. Small to mid-size bluefish have been schooling, and, like the stripers, have been slicing through juvenile men-
ing a full junior varsity (JV) and varsity game. While Ava admits it got tiring, her coaches insist that she always remained poised and determined.
“Every game, no matter what the score is, no matter where we are in the game, she’s not giving up,” says Ferrie.
Head Coach Zuse echoes that sentiment, explaining that Ava’s dedication to the game makes her a true role model for her teammates.
“In every drill in practice, every rep is done with a professional mentality,” Zuse says. “She doesn’t take a rep off, and her consistency is really remarkable.”
While it may not have been so evident to her coaches and teammates, Ava initially struggled adapting to the game’s speed in basketball and softball at the high school level.
“I remember in my first three or four basketball games, the speed of the game was a huge change. It was really hard to adjust to at first, but as I played more, it got slower in my head,” says Ava. “As for softball, it was even harder. We were facing pitchers who have a huge name for themselves, and that can be really intimidating.”
Despite the early challenges, Ava never let the learning curve inhibit her confidence on the court. Despite the pressure of stepping into such a crucial role, she prides herself on her energy and composure.
“When there’s pressure, it makes me perform better. Some people crash and fall, but I feel that I play better under pressure,” she says. “In basketball, if there’s someone there watching
CAPTAIN MORGAN’S
July 24 to July 30 Sports Person Week of the
haden. Recently, weakfish have been faring much better, but, by comparison, there are still too many short fluke to make up for the fewer 19” fish caught from boat and 17” from shore. Inland fishing and catching remains above average! For more on this summer’s fishing scene, click over to Captain Morgan’s weekly column featured on zip06.com and search for: “Lighthouses Are More Than Hazard Warnings.”
me or something, it just motivates me.”
continue dominating the Guilford stage, Ava looks forward to leaving a lasting impact on the school’s basketball program after she graduates.
have a name for itself. Right now, I don’t think people take Guilford girls basketball very seriously, but I want the program to grow,” Ava shares. “I want more people to come to our games, and eventually I want to try and leave Guilford High School with at least one SCC or state championship.”
Specifically, Ava’s sights are set on her junior year, when her younger sister, Maeve, will be a freshman at Guilford.
“I’m looking forward to playing with her, and that age group is really athletic, so I’m looking forward to playing with all of them,” she says. “I think once they get to the high school, both programs (basketball and softball) will be
Ava’s coaches are also excited to see where her potential will take her over the next few years. With her hard work and natural ability, they can ultimately agree that she will make her mark on Guilford basketball history.
“I think the sky’s the limit for her abilities,” says Zuse. “She’s clearly the basketball leader at Guilford right now, and obviously she’s got a lot more to learn, but she certainly has the head and the talent to clearly make a difference in the program.”
Photo courtesy of Ava Eagleson
Ava Eagleson had a successful freshman year for both the softball and girls' basketball teams at Guilford.
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Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!
How It Works:
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
‘All Shook
Up’ Will Have You Rockin’ in the Aisles at Goodspeed
By Karen Isaacs
Special to Living
If you don’t tap your toes or dance in the aisle at the Goodspeed production of through Sunday, August 24, perhaps you should check your pulse. The show is perfect light entertainment for the summer.
Shook Up Jersey Boys Ain’t Misbehavin’
Jukebox musicals get a bad rap. But when done well, they can be a total delight. and are two prime examples. But too often, songs are shoehorned into a trite plot. is an example of a jukebox musical that avoids most of the traps. It is a summer delight.
The list of things does well is long—from the show itself to the outstanding Goodspeed production and the talented cast.
The musical is set in a small town some years ago. Chad, who bears a resemblance to Elvis, arrives in town on his motorcycle and stirs up romance. He meets Natalie, a crackerjack motorcycle mechanic who is promptly attracted to him—so much so that she exchanges her garage overalls for a dress. But that’s not all. We have Dennis, who pines for Natalie, and Miss Sandra, the newly arrived and very busty museum director, whom all the men pur-
sue, including Chad. Add in the stern Mayor Matilda, who is enforcing her “Mamie Eisenhower Decency Act,” and her henpecked sheriff, plus her teenage son, Dean, and the girl he is attracted to (Lorraine), plus Natalie’s widowed father and the owner of the local restaurant/bar, and you have enough couples to make the entire town seem like it is in love.
Director Daniel Goldstein has cast the show to perfection. Ryan Mac imbues Chad with a touch of the Presley persona but also makes him more than a “lookalike.” He has the moves and the singing style. From the opening number, “Jailhouse Rock,” you find him a likable character, though at times, he misses the obvious—such as his attraction to Natalie.
Kerstin Anderson seems ideal as Natalie (and later Ed). She projects the confusion and naiveté of a young woman suddenly finding herself attracted to someone. She is as confused as everyone when she finds Miss Sandra coming on to her.
Although the characters could be played as stereotypes, the cast brings them to life as real people. Jessica Crouch takes Miss Sandra—who could be portrayed as only a “blonde bombshell”—and makes her a woman well aware of how men react to her, and she doesn’t always like it. As
Natalie’s dad, Jim, Benjamin Howes allows a note of sadness to creep in. Jordan Matthew Brown, who plays the nerdy Dennis (he pines for Natalie), is more than that. The same goes for Jackson Reagin as Dean and Amy Hilner Larsen as his domineering and puritanical mother. Jackera Davis ups the energy level as Natalie’s friend and Dean’s love interest.
Goldstein has opted to avoid realism; he uses just the handlebars of the motorcycle rather than the entire vehicle. This adds whimsy to the show. He also makes effective use of the aisles for Chad’s arrival in town and at other moments.
Byron Easley’s choreography is high energy and is outstandingly executed by the entire cast.
The production values are excellent. Beowulf Boritt’s set combines realism with almost a cartoon quality, and the costumes by Tilly Grimes capture the 1950s period. As usual, Jay Hilton’s sound design doesn’t blast your eardrums, which is appreciated with a rock show.
But it was Paige Seber’s lighting design that was particularly effective. The Act 1 finale, “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” is beautifully lit to highlight the different characters.
It may sound incongruous to combine Elvis Presley songs and Shakespeare, but
playwright Joe DiPietro not only does it, but makes it work. Yes, Shakespeare! A highlight is how effectively DiPietro integrates the Elvis songs into the story in a way that underlines the emotions of the characters and the situations. One example is “It’s Now or Never,” sung by Dean and Lorraine.
If you are a Shakespeare aficionado, you may see subtle references to , particularly in the role of Natalie, who disguises herself as a man (Ed) to get close to Chad, the man she is attracted to. Imagine her surprise when Miss Sandra falls in love with her; imagine Chad’s confusion when he is attracted to Ed! In addition, a Shakespeare sonnet figures in the plot, and the romance between Miss Sandra and Dennis is cemented in a discussion about the sonnets. Like any good Shakespearean comedy, multiple couples find true love, and it ends in weddings for all.
The show began at Goodspeed’s Terris Theatre in Chester in 2004. The next year, it had a 200+ performance run on Broadway starring Cheyenne Jackson and Jenn Gambatese. It then both toured and had productions throughout the world. Make sure you find your way to East Haddam to see this outstanding show. Tickets are available at Goodspeed.org. Twelfth Night
Photo by Diane Sobolewski
Photo by Diane Sobolewski
Ryan Mac as Chad and the cast of All Shook Up
Jackson Reagin as Dean and Jackera Davis as Lorraine in All Shook Up
For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.
THURSDAY, JULY 24
Red Cross Blood Drive
: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Ln. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Summer Reading Event: Flower Crowns Workshop
: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.
Food Explorers: Cannoli Croissant Bites
: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For ages 8 to 12. The recipe is nut-free but will contain dairy and gluten. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.
Concert Series at Jacobs Beach
: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Jacobs Beach, Seaside Ave., Guilford. Music by The Lost Marbles. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-453-8068 or click on the link for the spring-summer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.
Fireside Chats with Local Authors: Debbie Pausig
An Affair Worth Remembering with Huntington's Disease The Freshman 15 16 of Grief
: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features readings and discussions with a local author in front of the fireplace in the reading room. Books: and . For info, call 203488-1441 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.
Branford Jazz on the Green 2025
: 6:30 p.m. Branford Town Green. Music by Steve Oliver. Free. No dogs. No alcoholic beverages. Presented by the Town of Branford and the Branford Parks and Recreation Department. For info, visit branfordjazz.com.
St. Therese: Another ‘Preacher of Grace’
: 7 p.m. Saint Catherine Center, Monastery of Our Lady of Grace, 11 Race Hill Rd., North Guilford. Part of the "Evening with a Friar" series. Presented by Fr. Ignatius John Schweitzer. Hosted by the Aquinas Guild. To enroll in the guild, visit dominicannuns.org/aquinas-guild. For info or to register for the event, visit dominicannuns.org/posts.
IMAGES 2025: Virtual Juror Discussion
: 7 to 8 p.m. Online event. Features the presentation of awards and discussion of the art selected for the 45th annual compe-
tition and exhibition for Connecticut photographers. Presented by jurors Robert Calafiore, Kristen Joy Emack, and Lauren Wendle. For info or to register (required), visit shorelinearts.org.
Outdoor Summer Concert Series
: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library Patio, 67 Park St. Music by Laura Clapp Trio. Seats are available but may be limited. Bring your own chairs. In the event of rain, the concert will be moved to the meeting room. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.
Stony Creek in the Age of Granite
: 7 to 8 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. A talk about how Stony Creek was transformed from a small village of farmers and fishermen to a town of immigrants who worked in the quarry and owned stores. Presented by Stony Creek resident and former First Selectman Unk DaRos. Free. Part of a series of events marking 25th anniversary of the publication of the book
Flesh and Stone: Stony Creek and the Age of Granite
. For info, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.
2025 Grassy Strip Music Series
: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Music by Shaboo AllStars. Free and open to the public. The show starts with the Pledge of Allegiance; music begins at 7:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for sale on the lawn. Bring chairs and blankets. For info, visit madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.
FRIDAY, JULY 25
Tots and Tunes and Play
: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Family Resource Center, 1332 Middletown Ave., Northford. Features songs, stories, movement, and play on the outdoor playground (weather permitting). For children ages 18 months and older and their siblings. Parent or guardian must attend. Hosted by the North Branford Libraries. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 26
Hand-sewn Quilt Squares Demonstration
: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd. Participants will learn how to design and hand sew quilt squares from leftover fabrics. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/events.
Living Dragons
: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Riverside Reptile Education Center. For children of all ages. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
Calendar for the Week of July 24, 2025
Veneration and Mass with Relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina
: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 80 Taylor Ave. East Haven. Veneration starts 11 a.m. Mass begins 5:30 p.m. For info, call the parish office at 203-469-0764.
Music Connections
: 1 to 3 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features the history of music, iconic artists, and the stories behind the songs. Theme: “Songs You Can't Stand.” For info or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com
How Genetic Conflicts Shape Biology
: 3 p.m. Online event. Presented by Harmit Malik, professor and associate director of Basic Sciences Division at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle, Washington. Sponsored by Tilde Café, an interactive platform to demystify science and make it more accessible to the community. For info or to register (required), email admin@tildecafe.org or visit tildecafe.org.
Wings N Strings Festival
: 3 to 8 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Features a new country bluegrass festival with food, live music, and more. Free admission. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-4538068 or click on the link for the spring-summer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.
SUNDAY, JULY 27
Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show
: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.
Westwoods Nature Trail Hike
: 9:30 a.m. Meet at the Dunk Rock Road trailhead, 912 Dunk Rock Rd., Guilford. Open to adults and families with children able to walk at least two miles. No dogs. Hosted by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust (GLCT). In celebration of GLCT’s updated Nature Trail Guide. For info, text 646-797-9637 or visit guilfordlandtrust.org.
Things That Go Bump in the Night
: 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Pardee-Morris House, 325 Lighthouse Rd., New Haven. Features a talk about nocturnal animals, their habits, and their homes. Presented by Ginny Apple, a master wildlife conservationist. Free admission. For info or to register (required), visit newhavenmuseum.org.
Austen on Stage, Sondheim in Branford, and Shakespeare with Elvis
Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York professional theater
By Karen Isaacs
Columnist
: Take a drive up to Sharon, CT, to see the Sharon Playhouse’s production of , which runs from Saturday, July 26, through Sunday, Aug. 10. Several cast members, including Avery Hope, who plays Annie, were in the most recent national tour. It’s a lovely drive. For tickets, contact SharonPlayhouse.org.
Aisle ON THE
Ambitious Production Annie Amadeus
: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri were musical rivals in the 18th century. , the award-winning play and film about their rivalry, is playing at Madison Lyric Stage through Sunday, Aug. 3. It is a tale of jealousy, betrayal, and possibly murder. Contact MadisonLyricStage.org for tickets.
: Legacy Theatre in Branford is swinging for the fences with its next production: Stephen Sondheim’s
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber
Continued from page 22
Closing Reception for
Fiber Reimagined III
. The show is vocally difficult and presents both acting and production challenges. The show runs from Thursday, August 7, through Sunday, August 24. For tickets, visit LegacyTheatreCT.org.
: When opens at ACT of CT in Ridgefield this fall, it won’t be the same as the Broadway production. Since that production closed, composer Tom Kitt and writer Cameron Crowe have substantially revised the show with new songs and an improved book. It is described as “intimate, raw and electric.” It runs from Saturday, Oct. 18, through Sunday, Nov. 23. Since ACT of CT has been selling out many performances, you will want to get tickets promptly at ActOfCT.org.
: I’m not sure how Jane of Fleet Street Famous Musical Revision A New Musical Almost
MONDAY, JULY 28
: 2 to 4 p.m.
Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Presented in collaboration with Fiber Art Now, the exhibit is the third installment in a series of shows that highlights contemporary fiber art. For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
Summer Reading Event: Nature Walk to Collect Flowers
: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. All children participants must be accompanied by someone over 16 years old. Walkers are invited back to the library the next day to learn what they can do with the collected flowers. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.
2025
: 6 to 8 p.m. Madison Town Green. Music by KSF (Tribute to Kansas, Styx, and Foreigner). Free. Bring lawn chairs and a picnic. No alcohol. Sponsored by Madison Beach and Recreation. For info, visit madisonct.org/710/Summer-Concerts.
Summer Sounds: Concerts on the Green Series
: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Music by Hazard County. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-453-8068 or click on the link for the spring-summer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.
Austen fans will feel about it, but the Palace Theater in Waterbury is presenting a new musical, , on Sept. 26 and 27. The show is hoping to head to Broadway at some point. The description says that the “tale is reimagined when the esteemed author begins her own journey of self-discovery.” For tickets, visit PalaceTheatreCT.org.
More Losses
Austen’s Pride: A New Musical of Pride and Prejudice A
Comedy of Errors POP! Oblivion
members are being told to “dress extravagantly” in black, white, or silver and to bring a mask for the evening. The show, according to press materials, “seeks to immerse audiences by planting them right into the plot.” Audience members will join the ghost hunt, which traces the steps of the infamous Opera Ghost.
NYC Notes Cabaret
Take Me
Out Three Days of Rain The Dazzle
: Director Mark Brokaw and playwright Richard Greenberg have both passed away recently. Connecticut audiences saw Brokaw’s work at many local theaters, including Hartford Stage ( ), Yale Rep ( ), and Westport Country Playhouse ( ). He was also the artistic director of the Yale Institute for Musical Theatre. Greenberg’s plays—the Tony Award-winning , , and —all had Connecticut productions.
The Masked Man Returns
Phantom of the Opera
: Masquerade, the revised and immersive version of , sold out its limited run immediately, but the show is being extended to Oct. 19. My suspicion is that it will extend multiple times. Audience
Chills and Thrills Summer Luncheon
The Medusa Protocol Salt Bones Until Alison Scorched Grace Blessed Water
: Noon. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Features three authors and their works: Rob Hart ( ), Jennifer Givhan ( ), and Kate Russo ( ). Moderated by Margot Douaihy, author of and . Tickets: $90, includes admission for one, lunch, and a choice of one of the featured books. Presented by R.J. Julia Booksellers. For info or tickets, call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Teen Summer Crafternoon: Painted Tote Bags
: 3 to 4:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Last in a series of three drop-in craft sessions in the teen room on select Mondays. Snacks and supplies provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library. For info, visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.
Summer Reading Event: Paper Making and Pressed Flowers
: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Participants are welcome to bring flowers from home. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.
Dive into Reading Family Day
: 4 to 7 p.m. Read to Grow, 53 School Ground Rd., Branford, Features readaloud time with author Cindy Rodriguez, snacks, drinks, games, live entertainment, and book giveaways. Free and open to the public. For info, call 203-488-6800 or visit facebook.com/ReadtoGrowCT.
: The immersive production of , which got mixed reviews when it opened in April 2024, will close on Oct. 19. The London production is still running. The revival of the Tim Rice, Benny Andersson, and Björn Ulvaeus musical Chess will begin previews on Oct. 15. The show will star Aaron Tveit, Lea Michele, and Nicholas Christopher. The show began as a concept album in 1984; it had a brief Broadway run. The score and the show have become a fan favorite.
Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.
To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women, and the American Theatre Critics Association.
Musical Monday
: 6 to 8 p.m. Behind the Branford Town Hall, 1019 Main St. Music by Faye Green. Part of the Musical Mondays series through Aug. 25. Sponsored by the Branford Parks and Recreation. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.
Our Salt Marshes and the History of Salt Haymaking in Connecticut and New England
: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Presented by Shaun Roche, visitor services manager at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) at Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. Part of the series of free educational events to kick off the Jarvis Creek Farm Salt Marsh Migration and Restoration Project. Co-sponsored by the Branford Land Trust and the Branford Historical Society. For info, visit branfordlandtrust.org.
TUESDAY, JULY 29
Madison History Tour
: 10 a.m. Meet at Chamber of Commerce Building, 12 School St. Hosted by Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to register, contact 203-7475939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org.
America’s Botanical Collection
: Noon. Via Zoom. Features a talk on the Smithsonian botanical collection and its diversity of plants, as well as how it supports the work of scientists on plant genetics, evolutionary biology, and species conservation. Presented by Smithsonian horticulturist Carl Johnson. Hosted by the Essex Library. Free and open to the public. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.
See page 24
Summer Concert Series
Continued from page 23
: Noon to 5 p.m. Branford Elks #1939 Hall, 158 S. Montowese St. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Movie Showing
: 1 to 3 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com
: 1 to 6 p.m. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For info or an appointment, call 1-800RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Music Under the Stars Concert Series
: 7 p.m. North Haven Town Green. Music by Beau Bolero (Tribute to Steely Dan). Sponsored by the North Haven Department of Recreation in partnership with the North Haven business community. Free admission. For weather updates, call the Recreation Center at 203-672-0541 after 5 p.m. For info, visit northhaven-ct.gov/government/town_departments and click on the Recreation link and Music Under the Stars.
Geology Course
: 7 to 8 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Presented by the New Haven Mineral Club. Part of a weekly geology course through August. Features a presentation developed by John Renton, a professor from the University of West Virginia, and the Great Courses DVD series. Covers earth’s formation, plate tectonics, and more. No registration needed. For info, call 203-530-4554 or 203-484-0873.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30
Credit
: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Southern Connecticut State University School of Business, 10 Wintergreen Ave., New Haven. Last in a four-session course called "Managing Money in Your Business: Financial Essentials." Hosted by the Connecticut Small Business Development Center. For info or to register (required), email Amanda Tronchin at aet11001@uconn.edu or visit ctsbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events.
Shake, Rattle and Roll: Way Back Wednesdays
: 6 to 8 p.m. Branford Town Green. Features music from the 50s and 60s by DJ Dennis Nardella and a car show on Town Hall Drive. Runs through Wednesday, July 30. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.
Musica Italiana: A Cello and Violin Concert with Randy and Millie
: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented through the generosity of an anonymous donor in honor of parents Domenico Pellicano and Melina (Savino) Pellicano. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
THURSDAY, JULY 31
Shore Line Trolley Museum Celebrates 125 Years
:
11 a.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven Features a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m.
with remarks from state and local leaders and museum dignitaries; light lunch and refreshments; and trolley excursions on the rail line with museum representatives. For info, contact 203-467-6927 or info@shorelinetrolley.org.
On the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains with Pria Anand
: 2 p.m. Online event. Book:
The Mind Electric: A Neurologist on the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains
. Hosted by the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/scrantonlibrary.
Summer Reading Event: DIY Covers for E-readers or Tablets
: 4 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Free. For info or to register, call the library at 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.
Paper Mosaics
: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For ages 6 to 12. Participants will be given the supplies to create beautiful mosaics and learn about the history of this art form. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.
Connecticut, Color, and the Civil War
: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a presentation on the lives and experiences of some of the men who enlisted in the Connecticut Colored Regiments during the Civil War as well as the experiences of past enslaved individuals in Connecticut. Presented by genealogist John Mills. For info or to register (required), visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.
Branford Jazz on the Green 2025
: 6:30 p.m. Branford
Town Green. Music by Alberto Rivera. Free. No dogs. No alcoholic beverages. Presented by the Town of Branford and the Branford Parks and Recreation Department. For info, visit branfordjazz.com.
Outdoor Summer Concert Series
: 7 to 8 p.m. Guilford
Free Library Patio, 67 Park St. Music by the Flying Fish Jazz Quartet. Seats are available but may be limited. Bring your own chairs. In the event of rain, the concert will be moved to the meeting room. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.
2025 Grassy Strip Music Series
: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Music by Quinn Sullivan Band. Free and open to the public. The show starts with the Pledge of Allegiance; music begins at 7:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for sale on the lawn. Bring chairs and blankets. For info, visit madisonbeachhotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings.
FRIDAY, AUG. 1 THROUGH SUNDAY, AUG. 3
23rd Annual North Branford Potato and Corn Festival
: Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Augur Field, 290 Forest Rd., North-
SATURDAY,
AUG. 2
Inaugural Connecticut Hospice Miles for Memories Walk
ford. Features carnival rides, games, petting zoo, car and motorcycle show, tractor pull, helicopter tours, craft and business expo, food vendors, beer and wine tasting, live music, and more. Fireworks show takes place on Saturday after 9 p.m. In the event of rain, the fireworks will take place on Sunday. Free admission. Hosted by the North Branford Parks, Recreation, and Senior Center Department. Free admission. Rain or shine. No pets except for service animals. For info, visit nbpocofestival.com. : 9 a.m. Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford. Registration at 9 a.m., walk 10 a.m., post-walk celebration 11 a.m. with music, awards, and more. Participants receive a t-shirt at registration. Proceeds benefit Connecticut Hospice and its programs. For info, email john@jbsports.com or visit jbsports.com.
Guilford First Saturday Bike Ride
: 10 a.m. to noon. Meet on the Guilford Green in the Guilford Town Hall parking lot, 31 Park St. Bicyclists will ride about 10 miles on mostly flat roads and finish at Cilantro Coffee Roasters, 85 Whitfield St., Guilford, for coffee, food, and a chance to chat. Helmets required. Bring water. Hosted by the Shoreline Greenway Trail. For info, call or text 203815-0947 or visit shorelinegreenwaytrail.org.
Open House and Summer Market
: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Allis-Bushnell House, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Features handcrafted jewelry, soap, art by local artisans, and more. Visitors are free to explore the first floor of the museum and the maritime exhibit in the annex. Free admission. For info or to register, call 203-245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.
Sixth Annual Appetizer and Dessert Crawl
: Noon to 3 p.m. Broadway Island, 56 Broadway, New Haven. Features 13 appetizer and dessert tastings from some of downtown New Haven’s restaurants. Sponsored by The Shops at Yale. Tickets: $25. Service fees apply. Proceeds benefit the New Haven Animal Shelter. Ticket holders also receive specials from establishments and free parking at 150 York Street Garage. Rain or shine. For info or tickets, visit theshopsatyale.com/appcrawl.
Summer Crafts with Natalie: Paint Party Blue Butterfly
: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For adults. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
SUNDAY, AUG. 3
Beekeeping Basics
: 2 p.m. Pardee-Morris House, 325 Lighthouse Rd., New Haven. Covers the basics of beekeeping, the decline of honeybees, and ways to preserve the pollinators’ fragile ecosystem. Presented by apian advocate Ray Sola. For info or to register (required), visit newhavenmuseum.org.
Red Cross Blood Drive
Red Cross Blood Drive
Opera Theater of Connecticut Celebrates 40 Years with Die Fledermaus
Opera Theater of Connecticut (OTC) kicks off its 40th anniversary season this August with Johann Strauss II’s sparkling operetta , presented in English with a new script by Artistic Director Alan Mann.
Die Fledermaus
Performances will take place at the Andrews Memorial Theater, 54 East Main Street in Clinton, on Thursday, Aug. 7 at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9 and 10 at 3 p.m.
Mann’s inventive adaptation blends the elegance of the original score with contemporary wit and charm. Audiences can expect an evening of romantic deception, mistaken identities, and champagne-fueled mischief, all set to Strauss’s luscious melodies—including the beloved Hungarian czárdás and lively waltzes that have delighted audiences for generations.
The cast features Sarah Callinan as Rosalinda and Matt Morgan as her husband, Gabriel von Eisenstein. Luke Scott plays Dr. Falke, whose scheme for revenge sets the story in motion. Other featured performers include Leah Brzyski as the ambitious maid Adele, Alex McKissick as Rosalinda’s former flame Alfred, and Allegra De Vita as the eccentric party host Prince Orlofsky. Rounding out the ensemble are Andrew Martens as the Prince’s attaché Ivan, Rod Nelman as Warden Frank, and Matthew Surapine as
the bumbling lawyer Dr. Blind. Kyle Swann conducts, with support from OTC’s chorus and orchestra.
Artistic Director Alan Mann will also appear onstage in the comedic role of Frosch the Jailer—a return to a part he last performed in Clinton years ago.
“I’ve done the role twice before, but not in a long time,” Mann said. “We were looking for a guest performer, but the board insisted that with this being our 40th season—and given my sense of humor—it really had to be me. They thought our audience would enjoy it, so I finally agreed.”
Tickets are $60 for regular admission, $55 for seniors, and $35 for patrons under 18. Reserved seating is available at operatheaterofct.org or by calling 860-669-8999.
OTC will also host Opera Talk, an informal pre-show lecture by Artistic Director Alan Mann, beginning 90 minutes before each performance. Mann, a well-known regional and international opera speaker, will share insights into the composer, the story, and the production.
Opera Talk tickets are $5.
Photo courtesy of OTC
Opera Theater of Connecticut (OTC) kicks off its 40th anniversary season this August with Johann Strauss II’s sparkling operetta Die Fledermaus on Aug. 7.
2025 Summer Concert Series
: 6 to 8 p.m. Madison Town Green. Music by 1 Wild Night (Tribute to Bon Jovi). Free. Bring lawn chairs and a picnic. No alcohol. Sponsored by Madison Beach and Recreation. For info, visit madisonct.org/710/ Summer-Concerts.
Summer Sounds: Concerts on the Green Series
: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Music by Rhythm City. Sponsored by Guilford Parks and Recreation. For info, call 203-453-8068 or click on the link for the spring-summer 2025 brochure at guilfordparkrec.com/newslist.php.
ONGOING EVENTS
Art Exhibits
Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) West Gallery
: 360 State St., New Haven: For info, contact 203-433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org/events.
: 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison: For info, call 203-318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com. : Runs through Sept. 28.
: 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek: For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/gallery.
: Runs Aug. 1 through Aug. 24
104
Mill Rd., Guilford. No cover. For info, call 203-214-5874.
Mondays: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Big Swing Band with Tuxedo Junction.
17
River St., East Haven. Cost: $5 suggested donation. For info, call 203-467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.
First Tuesday: 6 to 9 p.m. Bluegrass acoustic and traditional music.
Vibrant Vision of Painter Howard Fussiner
: Runs through Aug. 31.
Guilford Art Center (GAC)
: 411 Church St.: For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
Fiber Reimagined III
: Runs through July 27.
James Blackstone Memorial Library Upper Rotunda Gallery
Robert Jawitz: Animal Portraiture
: 758 Main St., Branford: For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org. : Runs through Aug. 30.
Nathanael B. Greene Community Center
Guilford Art League Summer Show
: 32 Church St., Guilford: For info, visit guilfordartleague.org. : Runs through Oct. 1.
Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For info, call 203-350-0014 or visit thewharfmadison.com.
Fridays: 8 to 10 p.m. Acoustic Fridays. Various performers.
10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Free. Registration is required to receive a Zoom link. For info, contact 203-245-5695 or gillespiee@madisonct.org.
Mihae Lee, Artistic Director
BLT Launches Salt Marsh Celebration Series
The Branford Land Trust and the Branford Historical Society invite the public to a free presentation, Our Salt Marshes and the History of Salt Haymaking in New England, on Monday, July 28, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street.
Led by Shaun Roche, Visitor Services Manager for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, the talk explores the ecological and historical significance of Connecticut’s salt marshes. It also kicks off the Salt Marsh Celebration series and introduces the upcoming Salt Marsh Migration and Restoration Project at Jarvis Creek Farm.
Roche will highlight the importance of salt marshes as habitats for unique species and share the stories of colonial-era farmers who harvested salt hay for livestock. Known for its high nutritional value, salt marsh grass was once a staple in early New England agriculture. The presentation will include historic images and commentary on the sustainable practices of the time.
Salt marshes—wetlands located between ocean mud flats and grassy uplands—are flooded by tides twice daily and are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. In Branford, the Land Trust protects hundreds of acres of salt marsh, helping to mitigate coastal flooding and preserve habitats for native species like the Purple Martin, a Species of Special Concern in Connecticut.
Additional Salt Marsh Celebration events include a book talk on The Outermost House, set for Thursday, August 21 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library; a Salt Marsh Plant Walk along the Stony Creek Trolley Trail on Wednesday, August 27 from 6 to 7:30
p.m.; and another educational presentation, Marsh Migration at Jarvis Creek Farm, on Wednesday, September 17 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Blackstone Library. The series continues with a guided field trip to Chittenden Park in Guilford, Marsh Migration in Action, on Tuesday,
September 23 from 6 to 7 p.m. Hands-on opportunities are also available. Two Saturday work parties will be held at Tabor Marsh on August 23 and September 20, from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers will help identify and remove invasive plant species and learn more about
marsh conservation practices.
The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization accredited by the Land Trust Alliance. Founded in 1967, it is run entirely by volunteers and supported by member families and local businesses. The Trust manages more than 1,000 acres
across 130 parcels, holds conservation easements on another 400 acres, and maintains over 30 miles of hiking trails throughout Branford.
For more information or to become a member, visit www.branfordlandtrust.org.
Press Release from the Branford Land Trust
Photo courtesy of historicipswich.net.
Photo courtesy of historicipswich.net.
Historic haying techniques in New England salt marshes will be featured in a free presentation co-sponsored by the Branford Land Trust and Branford Historical Society. Photo courtesy of historicipswich.net.
Historic haying techniques in New England salt marshes will be featured in a free presentation co-sponsored by the Branford Land Trust and Branford Historical Society. Photo courtesy of historicipswich.net.
Photo courtesy of the Branford Land Trust
Artwork by Ele Willoughby
Shaun Roche of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge will present “Our Salt Marshes and the History of Salt Haymaking in New England Marshes" on July 28. Photo courtesy of the Branford Land Trust
19th Annual Shoreline Jewish Festival Returns to Guilford
Press Release from Chabad-Lubavitch of the Shoreline
The 19th annual Shoreline Jewish Festival will take place Sunday, Aug. 10, from 12 to 5 p.m. on the Guilford Green. This free event celebrates Jewish life on the Shoreline with live music, traditional and Israeli kosher food, a Jewish book sale, local artisans, and family-friendly activities.
This year’s music lineup includes Klezmerfest!, the Rostover String Quartet, the Jon Madof Trio, and Later Prophets. Klezmerfest! delivers joyful, Eastern European klezmer music rooted in the Old World tradition. Led by clarinetist Greg Wall, the band features Ben Holmes (trumpet), Zev Zions (accordion), Brian Glassman (bass), and Aaron Alexander (drums). From high-energy freylachs and bulgars to soulful doynas and spiritual chassidls, Klezmerfest! bridges shtetl nostalgia with modern Lower East Side revivalism.
The Rostover String Quartet, led by cellist Laura Melnicoff, offers a meditative set of nigunim—melodies composed by seven generations of Chabad-Lubavitch Rebbes. These deeply spiritual Chassidic tunes are arranged by Israel Edelson and produced by Yuvla Media, blending tradition with contemporary chamber sensibilities.
The Jon Madof Trio brings an eclectic sound that fuses avant-garde jazz, postrock, minimalist classical, and traditional Jewish music. With Madof on guitar, Yoshie Fruchter on bass, and Nate Rappaport on drums, the trio has been praised by The New York Times as “a truly soulful experience” and by The Village Voice as “a marvelous mashup.”
Later Prophets, the newest project by saxophonist and ordained rabbi Greg Wall, merges ancient biblical cantillation with modern jazz, funk, and experimental elements. Wall is joined by percussionist Aaron Alexander, keyboardist Shai Bachar, and bassist Fima Ephron for a spiritually rich, genre-defying performance.
The festival also features local artists and artisans offering Judaica, jewelry, artwork, and clothing. A wide selection of Jewish-interest books for adults and children will be available for sale.
Festival food includes kosher favorites such as pulled beef brisket, falafel, chicken shawarma, hamburgers, hot dogs, potato knishes, cotton candy, sno-cones, and fresh mini donuts.
Children’s activities will include inflatable bouncers and hands-on Jewishthemed arts and crafts.
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Acoustics Club:
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. On temporary break for winter. Bring your own acoustic instrument. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Ask-A-Lawyer: A Free Legal Clinic:
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Bereaved Parents USA and PS It Hurts Support Group:
10:30 a.m. First Sunday. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For grieving parents, grandparents, and siblings suffering the loss of children and family members. For info, call Vanessa Pentz at 203-645-7777.
: 7 p.m. Mondays. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. Doors open 5 p.m. Light refreshments. Cost: $15. Hosted by the Knights of Columbus Council 3928. For info, call 203-453-2801.
: 9 a.m. to noon. Saturdays through Oct. 4. Durham Community Center grounds, 144 Picket Ln., or on the Town Green. For info, email farmersmarket@townofdurhamct.org or visit townofdurhamct.org/articles/summer-farmersmarket-update.
: 4 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, through Oct. 30 (later, if weather permits). Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. For info, email farmersmarket@guilfordfair.org or visit guilfordyouthandfamilyservices.org.
: 3 to 6 p.m. Fridays through Thanksgiving. Madison Green. For info, visit madisonctfarmersmarket.com.
The primary festival sponsor is Shoreline TMS & Interventional Psychiatry. Additional sponsors include Matthew Evans, the Jewish Federation & Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven, Gladeview Rehab & Health Care in Old Saybrook, and Renewal by Andersen of Southern New England.
Admission and entertainment are free,
but registration is encouraged. Food, crafts, books, and vendor items are available for purchase. Artists may reserve a booth for $85.
To register, reserve a booth, become a sponsor, or download the festival app, visit www.ShorelineJewishFestival.com. For more information, contact Rabbi Yaffe at 203-533-7495 or chabad@snet.net.
: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays through October. The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/farmers-market.
To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.
Photo courtesy of the Shoreline Jewish Festival
The 19th annual Shoreline Jewish Festival will take place Sunday, Aug. 10, from 12 to 5 p.m. on the Guilford Green.
Bingo
Farmers Market Durham Farmers Market
Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds
Madison Farmers Market
The Dudley Farm Farmers Market
Real estate
A Waterfront Hidden Gem
Staff Report
Welcome to your waterfront hidden gem!
This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on the Connecticut River features 381 feet of direct waterfront, a private two-boat dock, a private horseshoe bay, and panoramic north-facing views up the river.
The modern, contemporary private estate boasts over 5,600 square feet of living space, featuring an open floor plan and stunning water views from every room.
The living room features a cozy fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that open to a 750-square-foot deck, ideal for relaxing, entertaining, soaking in the hot tub, enjoying peaceful sunsets, or simply taking in the ever-changing river views. A lower-level 750-squarefoot patio overlooks landscaped grounds, gardens, and a new stone fire pit area.
The chef’s kitchen is a dream, featuring an oversized granite island, high-end stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a wet bar, and a wine chiller that invite both gourmet cooking and effortless hosting.
Designed for comfort, the home offers multiple luxurious bedroom suites, each with sweeping views, spa-like bathrooms, walk-in closets, hardwood floors, and high ceilings. There’s space for an in-law bedroom or an au pair suite, plus additional spacious bedrooms with views, an entertainment room, a private office, a loft, and 4.5 bathrooms. A five-car garage provides ample space for storing cars, lawn equipment, or other items.
This estate is tranquil, private, and a rare chance to own a waterfront sanctuary — a striking, modern contemporary retreat that exudes coastal sophistication, elegance, and timeless exclusivity. It’s designed for those who seek a high-end lifestyle in a private, resortlike setting.
This home is being offered for sale by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties for $6,400,000. For more information or a showing, contact Sharon Linder at 860-460-8862.
The modern, contemporary private estate boasts over 5,600 square feet of living space, featuring an open floor plan and stunning water views from every room.
The chef’s kitchen is a dream, featuring an oversized granite island, high-end stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a wet bar, and a wine chiller that invite both gourmet cooking and effortless hosting.
The living room features a cozy fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that open to a 750square-foot deck, ideal for relaxing, entertaining, soaking in the hot tub, enjoying peaceful sunsets, or simply taking in the ever-changing river views.
Real Estate Transactions
GUILFORD
Sweet Summer Success
708 County Road
: 7 Van Dyke LLC to Robert and Barbara Loewengart, $685,000 on June 30
Long Hill Road
: Paula Piccirillo and Laurie Montano to Paul G. and Helaine K. Block, $735,000 on July 2
141 Meadow Ridge Lane
: Thomas J. and Deborah L. Ryan to Mariya Rozenbit and Robert Rifkin, $1,000,000 on July 3
553 Mulberry Point Road
: Michael S. Poole and Frances R. Slater to Sheldon Toubman and Claire Morduch, $1,200,000 on June 30
45 Jefferson Road Unit 6-4
: Kieran
Doherty to Nazanin V. Mehr and Jeffrey Eskendri, $220,000 on July 3
Linden Avenue
: M3 Re Holdings LLC to Robin L. and Lily Diamonte, $3,050,000 on June 30
Linden Avenue
: M3 Re Holdings LLC to Robin L. and Lily Diamonte, $3,050,000 on June 30
: Carl D. and Ann M. Meacham to Ashley Mcnamara and Jason Giardiello, $625,000 on July 2
: Nicholas and Mary A. Fermin to Nicole E. Fronsdahl and Florent Sevrin, $520,000 on June 30
: Lisa A. Digiola to Aaron Bolton and Sarah Ottum, $700,000 on July 3
MADISON
220 Northwood Drive
: Brandon and Samantha Bico to Steven E. and Magdalena Bonk, $630,000 on July 1
140 Podunk Road
: Maya Bartel to Edmund R. and Concetta Piotroski, $1,075,000 on July 2
231 Whitethorn Drive
: G & Sandra Christie T and Gordon C. Christie to Timothy J. Crimmins and Cara M. Biega, $715,000 on June 30
BRANFORD
: Sidra Berman to Jennifer A. Laredo and Paul Watkins, $1,230,000 on July 3
: Emmeth Properties LLC to Ryan Griffin, $328,000 on June 30
: Ws Cottage LLC to Daniela R. Balzano, $100,000 on July 2
: Salvatore G Delprete T and Marshal D. Gibson to Ashley Steele, $382,500 on July 2
: Holley Anderson to Bruce Kalk, $430,000 on July 1
: 94 East Main
St Branford LLC to John C. Romano, $660,000 on June 30
:
Estate of Angela Riccio and Joseph Riccio to Lisa Digioia, $390,000 on July 3
: Rosina Hurley to Paul A. and Kathryn J. Colbert, $447,000 on July 2
: Allison Hart
to Adam R. and Caitlyn Peterson, $510,000 on July 2
: Elizabeth and Philip J. Rogers to June R. Colina and Lorenzo Biscotto, $1,550,000 on June 30 : Allison J. Ohanlon to Jacqueline and Robert Watt, $749,000 on July 3
: Tami J Stencel T and Tami J. Stencel to Maya Bartel, $1,540,000 on July 3
: Hunter C. Morris to Jennifer Brower, $625,000 on July 3
: Pumpkin Lt and Glenn A. Drobot to John K. Williams and Doreen F. Davidson, $960,000 on July 2
: Charles H. and Ann A. Pfisterer to Kylie Roberts and John Meriano, $479,000 on June 30
