Pay-As-You-Throw Model Continues Success, Says Town
By Aaron Rubin
Staff Writer
The pay-as-you-throw model has proven to be a successful program for waste reduction at the Guilford-Madison Transfer Station, according to an eight-month review of the program by the Guilford Engineering Department The timeline of the review is between
November 2024 and June 2025. Previously, transfer station users paid $9 per 100 pounds of trash as part of a weight-based system for dumping of household trash. The review found that with the transition from a weightbased system to a per-bag system using town-designated blue bags, the capture rate of food scraps rose from around 20% by a rate of 45% in June 2025. Simultaneously, the transfer station saw a 40% decrease in
municipal solid waste (MSW) and singlestream recycling (SSR) increased within the same timeframe by 13%.
Particular points in the eight-month review show a higher rate of food scraps capture than others based on several factors. A spike of around 40% was observed around the 2024 holiday season, which Plaziak said
See Pay-As-You-Throw page 11
Puppy Love
Sisters Kelly, left, and Emma Pfau, middle, and their mother Julia, right, spend time with Birch, a puppy up for adoption at a dog adoption event held on Oct. 18 at Bishop's Orchards. The event brought together Clarity Medical Aesthetics of Guilford and Jenni's Rescue Ranch of Alvin, Texas, led by Jenni Hendricks. The collaboration has now found homes for approximately 100 dogs across three events since last year.
Denise Talarczyk
Guilford native has helped start a new organization named The Reason, which aims to support young adults in the Clinton community at high risk for suicidal ideation........................................2
Big Stage Success
The Guilford boys’ and girls’ cross country teams showed out at the conference championship meet, and girls’ swimming and diving took a tight loss......................................21
PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ TheCourier
Guilford Native Denise Talarcyk Sends Out a Safety Net
Sound Writer By Eric O'Connell
Born and raised in Guilford, Denise Talarczyk has helped start a new organization named The Reason, which aims to support young adults in the Clinton community at high risk for suicidal ideation. Now, she’s celebrating raising over $6,000 in The Reason’s first year.
As a longtime EMT for Clinton Ambulance, Denise has been there to provide help during many different situations over the years. Unfortunately, that also means she has had a front-row seat to one of the biggest issues facing the community.
“Because I’m an EMT, I see the mental health crisis we’re facing firsthand. We get a lot of calls,” Denise tells the Harbor News. Now, she’s hoping to spread the word about the new group aimed at fighting the stigma of mental health.
In 2017, a report from the University of Connecticut revealed that Clinton had the highest rate per capita in Connecticut for suicides and suicide attempts resulting in hospitalization. In the years since the study was released, the town has continued to see youth struggling with mental health.
In particular, Denise notes that there’s a
Person of the Week
gap in support services available for young adults ages 18 to 30. So last winter, she decided to do something.
“I was driving in my car on the way to work and then this thought just came into my mind,” Denise says.
Her idea was to form an organization that would provide help to young adults struggling with suicidal ideation.
“There’s a lot of help out there for the youth, but there’s not a lot for the people outside of the schools or Youth and Family Services,” says Denise.
Along with Chris Carlisle, Alice Huey Corrigan, Dylan Walter, and Mary Luchuk, Denise helped form The Reason in early January. Together with the CARE team developed by the Clinton Police Department, the organization seeks to
homicidal ideation within our community,” according to a flyer.
The Reason took off in year one and on
Photo courtesy of Denise Talarczyk Denise Talarczyk
Guilford is at its best when we work together. That’s what Matt Hoey and your Democratic team have done: stronger finances, millions in grants that save taxpayers money, new public spaces that bring neighbors together, and collaborative leadership that puts community first. They’ve supported seniors, kept schools strong, created opportunities for students, and honored our history while planning for the future. With new voices and fresh ideas, they’re working to keep Guilford a place everyone is proud to call home.
Sandra Ruoff
Louis Federici
First Selectman Board of Selectmen
Matt Hoey
Amy Earls
Rob Federici
Jen Scoggin
Arnold Skretta
The
Alpha
INVEST IN GUILFORD WITH A DONATION TO OUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN
s t h a
c r i t i c
l p r o g r a m m i n g t h a t e n r i c h e s t h e q u a l i t y o f l i f e i n G u i l f o r d O u r f u n d i n g i s d i r e c t e d t o a r a n g e o f s e r v i c e s i n c l u d i n g y o u t h b a s i c n e e d , a r t s & c u l t u r e
I was born and raised in Guilford and have now raised my own family here. So much of what makes this community special comes from the work of those serving on elected boards. And the selection of those individuals on the ballot is where their service begins.
I support the Row C Independent Party candidates for the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance, and Board of Education. For anyone new to town who may not know the origin of the party, it was formed in response to a contentious election in which extreme ideology was vying for multiple spots on Guilford’s Board of Education. I was proud to host
a gathering of supporters at my home and help rally to “Protect Guilford Schools.”
Since that election, Independent Guilford was formed. I have found this group to be educated, approachable, and entirely focused on our town. The party now supports more than 45 people serving on boards and commissions. Their focus is on the overall health and wellbeing of our community. The ballot this year offers voters more options than it did in the past, but it requires reading the directions for each office.
Gus Kellogg Guilford
Political Letters Season is Over; No More Meeting Schedules
Shore Publishing has decided to cut off the publication of political letters in the newspaper as of this edition, as it is now our policy not to run letters the week before an election. All letters received and verified by Thursday, Oct. 30, will be published, instead, on our Zip06 page, along with the letters placed in the paper. Letters that come in after noon next Thursday will not be run on any of our platforms.
As we notified readers last edition, we have been forced to limit the number of letters in this edition due to space issues. The few letters we held out at random will be published at our online portal Zip06. We are sorry about any concerns this might cause, but there is no intention to exclude any one candidate or party. We are trying to be as inclusive as possible, but the sheer number of letters this year has overwhelmed our staff. We have published hundreds of letters in the past few months from people representing nearly every candidate in all of our towns.
Due to limitations on staffing and space, we are currently working on a new letters policy for the next election cycle. Any ideas
Correction
or comments on how we can better serve you, our readers, can be sent to Lee Howard, Interim Managing Editor, at l.howard@theday.com. A notification of the new policy will be published in these papers and online in the coming few weeks.
We have tried, over this election cycle as in the past, to publish as many of your letters as possible, not to mention stories on all of the major races in your towns. We hope you have benefited by knowing more about candidates for office as a result of these efforts, and we plan to continue serving your need for local political, news, cultural and sports coverage in the months and years ahead.
In addition, we have now dropped the weekly schedule of town meetings. We could never be all-inclusive anyway, and the times of meetings often changed after we went to print. Your best bet for the latest town meeting times and locations is to check your hometown’s website. We will, of course, continue to cover important town meetings.
In a Page 1 photo last week in The Guilford Courier depicting the Scarecrows on the Green, we neglected to mention that the event was a collaboration of Guilford Parks & Recreation, Guilford Youth & Family Services and Guilford D.A.Y. The photo caption mentioned only the Parks & Rec department.
Christian Maldonado Valley Courier
Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130
Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167
Maria Caulfield Living Editor
Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor
Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304
Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119
Alan C. Ellis Production Director
Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122
Eric O’Connell Harbor News
Gabrielle Maljanian Sports Editor
Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent
Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant
Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier
Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography Editorial Staff
One
In
County Hearing and Balance
Tom has been practicing law for over 30 years and currently serves as a partner at Hill & Hill, LLC just steps f rom Madison’s Town Hall and Probate Court.
In the past year, Tom has appeared in 40 probate hearings, 28 of them right here in the Madison-Guilford Probate Court, and maintained appearances in 140 Superior Court cases. The courts in Madison-Guilford, East Haven-North Haven, Saybrook, and Niantic have appointed Tom to
in
This experience has shaped his belief that a probate judge must be prepared, impartial, and deeply
Tom’s goal is
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Probate
Contacting Guilford Courier
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Guilford Courier encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues.
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Obituaries
Obituary Ann Laurie Guilford
Ann M. (Birtwistle) Laurie, 64, a longtime resident of Guilford, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late David M. Laurie.
Born in New Haven on March 10, 1961, Ann was the daughter of the late David Birtwistle and Madeline (Gambardella) Birtwistle. She was a 1979 graduate of Sacred Heart Academy.
For many years, she worked as a phone representative at SNET, where she met her husband, Dave. She later dedicated herself to raising her family as a homemaker.
Ann was a devoted mother to David Laurie of Guilford and Jennifer Johnson (Kyle) of Guilford. She was a proud
and loving grandmother to Riley and Wyatt Johnson. She will be remembered for her warmth, positivity, and unwavering spirit. Ann brought light and laughter to every room and always found the good in every situation. She cherished time spent with her family and friends and found comfort in her faith, attending mass whenever she could.
Friends are invited to calling hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 24 at St. George Church, 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford. Burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TM 38105; https://www.stjude.org/. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.
Letters Continued from page 6
Guilford Needs Strong Leadership
Guilford needs a First Selectman who understands what the job entails, and who can work collaboratively with the Superintendent of Schools and Board of Education. Our Public School system is among our greatest assets, and we need leaders who respect each other and work together for the benefit of our students.
Guilford needs a First Selectman who sees the diversity of talent in this community and seeks out the most competent people to serve on our vital Boards, Commissions and Task Forces.
Guilford needs a First Selectman who understands the need to make housing affordable for those encumbered by high costs.
Guilford needs a First Selectman who understands the value of open space, in critical areas like the East River watershed. We need someone who understands the levers of outside financing and enlists the best people to seek funding to
help defray those costs, providing our taxpayers with conserved land at a lower cost.
Guilford needs a First Selectman who understands the need for safer streets and increased safe mobility for pedestrians and cyclists. Imagine safe walking and cycling routes from the East River to the West River. Imagine safe walking and cycling from the High School to the Marina.
Guilford needs a First Selectman who works together with our elected State and Federal officials to make things better for Guilford residents. The residents of Mulberry and Tuttle’s Point are now drinking fresh municipal water thanks to the collaboration between the Town, the State and the Federal Government. We have that First Selectman in Matt Hoey. Let’s re-elect him.
Tim Sperry Guilford
Proven Leadership for Probate Court
As a state senator and business owner in Madison, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with many dedicated local leaders, and few embody public service more fully than Seth Klaskin. I am proud to support his candidacy for Probate Judge.
Seth has devoted years of thoughtful, steady leadership to the Town of Madison. Now, as chair of the Madison Board of Education, he has demonstrated the judgment, compassion, and integrity that define effective public service. Seth has guided the Board through complex challenges, from school construction projects and budget deliberations to policy decisions affecting every student and family in the district. He listens carefully, works to build consensus, and always seeks solutions that balance what’s best for students with what’s responsible for taxpayers.
In my work as state senator, I’ve seen firsthand Seth’s deep commitment to the people of Madison. Whether advocating for fair education funding or acting as a liaison in discussions with state agencies, he approaches every issue with respect, preparation, and a genuine desire to do what’s right. Those same qualities of fairness, diligence, empathy, and a firm grasp of the law are exactly what we should expect in a Probate Judge.
Our Probate Court plays an essential role in protecting families, children, and the elderly during some of life’s most difficult moments. Madison and Guilford deserve a judge who will bring compassion and competence to those responsibilities. Seth Klaskin has already proven he will do just that.
Christine Cohen Madison and Guilford
The Steady Center
Over the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the contributions that Independent Guilford (IG) has made to our town. Two pillars have remained constant: an active presence in Guilford and a deep desire to serve this community we all call home. IG members embody these principles, time and again, through representative service on a wide range of committees and elected positions.
In this upcoming election, we have another opportunity to raise our voices and elect community members ready to assume responsibility and lead Guilford forward.
Charles Havrda personifies an “active presence within the town of Guilford,” having served on the Board of Selectmen for four terms. In my time working with Charles, I’ve always been struck by how genuinely he connects with the people of Guilford, having been rooted here for decades. Through his calm demeanor and steady voice, he seeks long-term, balanced solutions that serve the entire town. I’m confident Charles will continue his thoughtful, dedicated service when re-elected to the Board of Selectmen.
Service to the community is a noble goal, but leadership demands more — experience, skill, and a record of results. Elias Kabeche exemplifies this blend, seeking election to the Board of Finance. With decades of global executive experience at Samsung Electronics, Elias brings proven financial leadership, P&L management, and expertise with multimillion-dollar budgets. Guilford will gain not only a volunteer but an accomplished professional ready to guide our town’s financial future.
Michael Faulkner
Guilford
Proven Leadership and Compassion
I am proud to support Seth Klaskin for Judge of Probate for the MadisonGuilford District.
For more than two decades, Seth has served our town with dedication, humility, and heart. Whether on the Zoning Board of Appeals or during his 16 years on the Board of Education — where he now serves as Chair — Seth has earned the respect and trust of our community through steady leadership and genuine care for others. He listens with compassion, makes thoughtful decisions, and always keeps the well-being of children and families at the center of his work.
Seth is also a seasoned attorney with nearly 30 years of legal and leadership experience. His background as a civil litigator and his broad understanding of
Connecticut law have prepared him to handle the sensitive and often emotional matters that come before the probate court. Just as important, his empathy and calm presence ensure that every person who comes before him will be treated with dignity and fairness.
We’ve seen what strong, principled leadership looks like through Seth’s work on the Board of Education — guiding our schools to remarkable success and fostering a culture of integrity and kindness. I have every confidence he will bring that same steady hand and compassionate heart to the probate bench.
Al Goldberg Madison
One-NightPerformanceofSwanLake
The Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine announces its return to New Haven for its one-night performance of Swan Lake at the Shubert Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. at the Shubert Theatre, 247 College Street, New Haven. The performance is interpreted by principal dancer Viktor Tomashek and features leading dancers from Ukraine, Italy, Spain, the United States, and Japan. For more information or tickets, visit the events link at shubert.production.carbonhouse.com.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF Joan Anne Rossiter, AKA Joan A. Rossiter (25-0302)
The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated October 9, 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.
Priscilla H. Geer, Clerk
The fiduciary is: Nancy E. Belekewicz, c/o RACHAEL MORGAN ENGELMAN, LAW OFFICES OF PAUL K. SULLIVAN, JR, LLC, 705 BOSTON POST ROAD, GUILFORD, CT 06437
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Nicole Andrzejczyk (25-0241)
The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated, 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:
Robert Kokorda, 104 Stanley Road, Monroe, CT 06460
LEGAL NOTICE OF DECISION GUILFORD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Notice is hereby given that the Guilford Planning and Zoning Commission held a virtual meeting on October 8, 2025, and at this meeting the following actions were taken:
Approved with conditions:
480 New England Road (Map 84 Lot 34, Zone R-5). Applicant/Agent: Michael Ott of Summer Hill Engineers on behalf of Owner: Sarah Bishop DellaVentura of BW Bishops & Sons Inc. Special Permit for deposition of 7000 CY of fill per §8.3.
146 State Street (Map 46 Lot 127B, Zone R-1). Applicant/Agent: Todd Anderson of Anderson Surveying on behalf of Owners: Fredrich & Jane Olsen. Special Permit for accessory structure exceeding 750 SF.
Mandatory Referral: temporary construction easements for Falcon Road Project
Dated at Guilford, Connecticut this 23rd of October 2025 – Sean Cosgrove, Chairman
MUNICIPAL ELECTION – NOVEMBER 4, 2025-Guilford,
Days to Register to vote, on line, DMV, or in person
When is the last day to Register to Vote?
CT
Friday Oct 17, 2025:
Deadline for voter registration by mail to be post-marked
Deadline for voter registration at the DMV by close of business
Deadline for voter registration online by 11:59 pm www.voterregistration.ct.gov
Deadline for voter registration in person by 8:00 pm Registrar of Voters Office, in Guilford, 31 Park St., Guilford, CT
IF YOU MISSED THE ABOVE DATE:
You may register in person every day of Early Voting at the Early Voting location (Guilford Town Hall, 31 Park St., Registrar of Voters office, 1st floor). This is called Same Day Registration. Those dates will be October 20th thru November 2nd , 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except on October 28th and 30th, when the hours will be 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
IF YOU HAVE MISSED THE ABOVE DATES:
If you are not registered, by the end of Early Voting days, but want to vote on Election Day, November 4, you may register in person on Election Day at the Guilford Town Hall, 31 Park St., Registrar of Voters office, 1st floor from 6AM to 8 PM.
Letters Continued from page 9
Independent Thinking for Guilford’s Financial Future
As a longtime Guilford resident, I want to share my support for Elias Kabeche, who is running as an independent candidate for the Board of Finance.
I came to know Elias when we both attended the Guilford Citizens Police Academy. We often rode together, and I was impressed by his thoughtful questions, his sense of fairness, and his ability to look at issues with logic and clarity. Elias has a way of focusing on what matters most — our town and our com-
Dedicated Voice for Education
As someone who grew up in Guilford, I’m proud to support Amy Fenollosa for the Guilford Board of Education, an Independent on Row C. Amy has deep roots in our community and a longstanding commitment to the well-being of Guilford’s students.
Her two sons have grown up right here in the Guilford Public Schools, giving Amy firsthand experience with the strengths and the challenges of our district. She understands what it means to advocate for all children, not just from a policy perspective, but from the heart of a parent who’s lived it.
CallingAllArtistsandArtisans
munity — without being distracted by national political agendas.
What I admire most is that Elias listens. He considers different perspectives, weighs the facts, and always comes back to what will serve Guilford best. That’s the kind of common sense and independence we need on the Board of Finance.
Lolita Sobieski Guilford
Beyond her role as a dedicated mom, Amy founded Kids HUGS, a remarkable organization that supports children navigating loved ones who are going through cancer. That alone speaks volumes about her compassion, empathy, and ability to bring people together when it matters most.
Amy listens. She leads with kindness and integrity. And she’s focused on ensuring Guilford schools continue to be a place where every child can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Laura Clapp Davidson Guilford
Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, invites artists to submit work for its holiday show, The Art of Dreaming. The gallery welcomes representational and abstract art in all mediums—including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media—that explore the many dimensions of dreaming. Artists may submit works that capture fantasy, invention, romanticism, or surrealism, with unexpected juxtapositions and mysterious images. The show runs Friday, Nov. 21, through Saturday, Jan. 10, with artwork receiving from Sunday, Nov. 9, to Thursday, Nov. 13. Spectrum’s artisans store also seeks fine crafts in wood, ceramic, pottery, glass, paper, fabric, jewelry, and more. In addition, the gallery invites submissions of handmade ornaments for its six-foot holiday tree and seasonal items in all mediums. For more information, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF Clarence O. Gilbert (25-0303)
The Hon. Peter C. Barrett, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Madison - Guilford Probate Court, by decree dated October 6, 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.
Karen M. Parzych, Chief Clerk
The fiduciary is:
Gary W. Gilbert
c/o KENNETH JAMES PAPA, LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH J. PAPA LLC, 762 BOSTON POST ROAD, MADISON, CT 06443
Pay-As-You-Throw Model Continues Success, Says Town
Continued from page 1
“makes sense.” The spike is most likely attributable to many at the end of the year needing to dispose of a lot of food waste, and taking an interest in the newly established program. The spike in can be explained by the increase of the Guilford population observed in the summer, as many residents with seasonal homes in town use the transfer station to dispose of their waste rather than using a private hauler.
The department was also able to report numbers for July 2025, which found a collection of 18,000 pounds of food scraps collected separately at the transfer station.
“That’s nine tons of food scraps collected in one month, which was amazing,” said Town Engineer Janice Plaziak.
Looking at the effort holistically, the department calculated the amount of materials diverted from eventual incineration - an environmentally harmful process to burn waste - increased by 17% by the end of the eight-month review. Overall, the Engineering Department found that between a decrease in MSW and increases in SSR and food capture “demonstrate behavior change and source reduction.”
The behavioral changes referred to are transfer station users being more cognizant of the amount of the waste they generate and the opportunity to reduce the amount they spend on dumping. Plaziak has received anecdotal accounts from transfer station users about the benefits of the program.
“I’ve received commentary back that a lot of people find they’re saving money instead of paying the minimum $9 fee,” she said. “They’re finding that they could get away with one or two bags of trash instead of paying $9.”
She’s also heard from residents who still wish to participate in the program but are
unsure where to purchase the blue bags. Blue bags for food scraps are available for purchase at Big Y, Walgreens, and CVS Pharmacy in Guilford, as well as Stop and Shop in Madison. The largest bags can fit 33-gallons of household waste and cost $3.
The town engineer remains committed to informing users of the transfer station about the PAYT model, having placed a sign by the bin designated for food scraps collection as a way of “encouraging people and letting them know how much their efforts to food scraps are really making a difference.”
Other municipal departments Guilford have become involved in ensuring the PAYT program is running correctly. The Guilford Police Department posted an instructional video on their Instagram page on the dumping process and the costs associated with food scrap disposal. The video was published following “an increase in calls to the Guilford-Madison Transfer Station for people driving off without paying the dumping fee.”
The police department said it is “important” that household waste like food scraps be placed in blue bags - for which the required dumping fee is included in their cost - and that they be used accordingly to avoid infractions. Other dumping processes must not be circumvented either to avoid paying required fees.
“Intentionally leaving the Transfer Station without ‘weighing out’ and paying the dumping fee or without using the designated blue bags can constitute theft of services,” Plaziak said.
Plaziak said the town may look into a local ordinance to fine people who dump without paying.
But, with the overall successful results of the PAYT model thus far, “I don’t see the unit based pricing program changing in the near term,” said Plaziak.
LEGAL NOTICE
All persons liable to pay water main assessment billings in the Town of Guilford are hereby notified that the first installment of water main assessment billing is due October 1, 2025. The last day to pay taxes without penalty is November 1, 2025
If payment is not made by November 1, 2025 interest will accrue to the original due date of October 1, 2025 at the rate of 1 ½% per month, or 18% per year from the date of the installment.
Payments can be mailed to the Town of Guilford, Tax Collector, 31 Park Street, Guilford, CT, 06437. Please make sure to include your coupon with your payment. Payments may be made at the Tax Office at 31 Park St. Monday -Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Acceptable forms of payment are cash, checks, money order or cashier’s check. Please bring your bill with you.
For questions regarding your water main assessment billings, please call the Tax Office at 203-453-8014.
Deborah A. Milano
Tax Collector, CCMC
Guilford Native Denise Talarcyk
Continued from page 2
Nov. 3, Denise and The Reason will be presenting a check to Clinton Police Department’s CARE team for over $6,000. Denise says altogether the Reason raised about $11,000, and she is considering other relevant organizations to donate the money to.
For Denise, The Reason’s goal is a personal one. She says a close friend’s son sadly died by suicide. In thinking of how to respond, one word kept coming up.
“We were all crying and I kept saying, ‘The reason we are doing this is to save even one life. The reason we are doing this is for Joseph. The reason we are doing this is to make a difference in our community that is struggling with mental illness.’ And I kept saying that word and then I just said, ‘Hey guys, I think we have a name now,’” Denise says.
Even the group’s logo has a personal touch, Denise explains.
“The eye is actually a close-up of a picture of my friend’s child’s eye. The smoke represents the fog of mental illness, but with the eye, it’s like we see you through that fog,” she says.
Denise notes that the organization is newly formed and is still getting its stride. She encourages people to keep an eye out for upcoming fundraisers.
“We know there’s a big need in this town, but I know we can help meet it,” she adds.
Anyone seeking to get involved or with questions about The Reason can email thereasonclinton@gmail.com.
Denise grew up in Guilford but has lived in Clinton for close to 35 years. When she’s not working, she enjoys playing pool, setback, and spending time with her kids.
Spectrum
GalleryWorkshopsandClassesforAdultsandChildren
Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, is holding art classes and workshops that include a stitch journal workshop on Saturday, Oct. 25 and paint a piping plover workshop in watercolor on Saturday, Nov. 8. In addition, Spectrum is holding various children's art classes through the fall. For more information, including class schedules, material lists, and costs, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.
Wanted:Artists,Artisans,andCrafters
Guilford Art Center is now accepting applications for its holiday 2025 expo. Applications are open to artists and crafters from the local community, Connecticut, and New England who work in various media, including but not limited to ceramics, woodworking, glass, jewelry, metalwork, stationery, leather goods, personal care items, candles, homewares, textiles, and fiber arts. For more information or an application, visit guilfordartcenter.org.
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, November 5, 2025 at 6 P.M. via the ZOOM platform by using the following link. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6396320192
Meeting ID: 639 632 0192
The following applications will be heard:
102 Broad Street (aka 20 Church Street) (Map 30 Lot 37A, Zone R-1). Applicant/Agent: Ava Anderson and Marci Palluzzi on behalf of Owner: Douglas Anderson of 96-102 Broad Street Associates. Special Permit for modification, expansion, extension or expansion of an existing non-conforming use in the R-1 zone per §8.3.E.
405 Whitfield Street (Map 28 Lot 5, Zone I and R-3). Applicant/Agent: Russell Campaigne of Campaigne Kestner Architects on behalf of Owner: Kurt Wittek of Eagleview Homes LLC. Modification of existing Special Permit to allow for 2 condominium buildings with 14 total units per §9.4.G.6.
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.
Dated at Guilford, Connecticut this 23rd of October 2025 – Sean Cosgrove, Chairman
Thomas F. McGloin, 74, of Guilford, entered into the universe to explore what is on “the other side of the sod” on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025 while under CT Hospice care at Montowese Health Center. He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Ann Szatmary McGloin; his daughter, Meredith Batchelor McGloin; his son, Evan Szatmary McGloin; and his son-in-law, Brian L. Zackowitz (Meredith).
two best friends traveled and picnicked their way around the UK and Ireland, snorkeled in the Caribbean, and camped all along the East Coast. Ever the agreeable husband, Tom allowed himself to be dragged out at 3 a.m. to watch meteor showers, perch in clumps of goldenrod to watch parades of tall ships, sail Long Island Sound with dear friends (even though he couldn’t swim), and carry home ALL the prettiest rocks from Connecticut’s hiking trails.
The third of seven children, Tom grew up in Floral Park, Long Island. He leaves his mother, Marie Donovan McGloin and his siblings: Carol and David Black, Eugene and Lois McGloin, Stephen and Lillian McGloin, Kenneth and Barbara McGloin, Doreen McGloin, and Patricia and Michael Brodersen. He is also survived by his extended family: Lynn (Szatmary) and Michael Cote, four godchildren: (Christina Black, Lauren (McGloin) Morales, Matthew Cote, and Deanna Cote); 15 nieces and nephews, and 17 great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Owen “Gene” McGloin; infant nephew David Scott Black; and in-laws, Dorothy and Fred Szatmary, who loved him like a son.
Tom was many things to many people, but thought of himself as a scientist, husband, and father. His love of science was sparked at Archbishop Molloy High School in Jamaica, N.Y., and honed at Niagara University, where he received his undergraduate degree in biology. After embarking on a career in quality control, he earned his graduate degree in chemistry from Southern Connecticut State University while working as a lab supervisor at the Upjohn Company. He later worked as an environmental lab director and conducted environmental research at UConn. His professional dreams were realized as a chemist and lab director for the State of CT DEEP, traveling around the state testing for toxic chemicals, environmental waste, and monitoring check points for air and water quality.
Tom met his wife, Ann, while they were students at Niagara, and they were married shortly after graduation. Relocating to the New Haven, area, the
But the role Tom was born for was “Dad.” From the moment of his children’s births, Tom supported Meredith and Evan in all their endeavors. He was the consummate swing-pusher, bicycle instructor, and (loudly!) encouragingsports parent, instilling his sense of sportsmanship on the cross country trails and football field alike. He was an active Girl Scout dad and served as Cubmaster of Cub Scout Pack 472 and as a Committee Member for Boy Scout Troop 471 in Guilford. Some of his fondest memories with his children were drowning worms (AKA fishing) from the family’s canoe on Hopeville Pond, sitting around the campfire (any campfire!), passing the time on long road trips by spinning stories (George, Temunka, and Princess Purple Feather really deserved their own book), and sharing new experiences from Shakespeare to stock cars. “Bonus son” Brian joined the family via marriage and fit beautifully, making the circle of four into a five-pointed star.
Always a spiritual man, Tom was an active and treasured member of Zion Episcopal Church, where he served many roles including Head Usher and Vestry member. His joys included singing tenor in the Zion choir and being Santa at the annual church fair.
Family and friends are invited for visitation from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 14, at Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. Please join the family for a memorial service and celebration of Holy Eucharist at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, at Zion Episcopal Church, 326 Notch Hill Road, North Branford. Interment of ashes will follow immediately in the Zion Memorial Garden. Family and friends are invited to a (festive!) reception and celebration of Tom’s life in the Parish Hall immediately after. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Zion Episcopal Church or the charity of your choice. Arrangements in care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.
Continued from page 10
Supporting a Strong School Leader
When our family moved to Guilford in 2014, we didn’t know much about the Connecticut shoreline. What first drew us here was the town’s reputation for having an exceptional school system. That reputation has endured, and we want to see Guilford continue to build on its success.
That’s why we’re supporting Jen Scoggin for the Guilford Board of Education.
Jen is someone we know personally and professionally. As a friend and fellow resident, her advocacy for teaching and learning has been an inspiration. Starting back as a fellow parent at Community Nursery School ten years ago and continuing through today, we’ve seen her remain deeply involved and committed to her core principles of literacy and support for the Guilford school system.
Professionally, she’s spent her career as a teacher, author, and educational leader dedicated to improving literacy and learning. She has years of classroom experience in the early grades, has written two books on literacy (with another coming in 2026), and has taught future educators at Sacred Heart University. In her current role, she supports teacher development in writing and reading, focusing on both early childhood and adolescent literacy. Now she can bring her expertise and experience as a committed Guilford resident to our Board of Education.
Sarah and John Harford Guilford
The Greater New Haven Cat Project (GNHCP) announces its Feral Feline Festival, the annual raffle fundraiser featuring themed raffle baskets. The festival features an in-person raffle on Saturdays, Nov. 1 and Nov. 8, from 2 to 6 p.m. at 1874 Middletown Avenue, North Branford, and an online silent auction with bidding starting Nov. 1 and ending Nov. 8. For the raffle event, tickets cost $5 available at the event. For the online auction and details on the auction items, visit gnhcp.org/feralfelinefestival. For more information, contact GNHCP at 203-782-2287 or gnhcp1@gnhcp.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.
Local journalism is a vital pillar of our communities, serving as the voice that shares the stories of our friends and neighbors, celebrates our successes, and addresses our challenges. Small businesses depend on local newspapers to connect with customers and promote their services. When local journalism thrives, so does our community and economy.
As the last independently owned newspaper in Connecticut, our mission has always been to provide local news, share meaningful stories, and elevate the voices within our community. Each week, you can count on our reporters for the latest coverage, including:
• Person of the Week Profiles
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While delivering news free of charge is our goal, it is costly. Unlike larger media outlets, we rely heavily on the support of readers like you. We are reaching out to ask for your continued support to keep Shore Publishing thriving and independent.
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.
We appreciate each of our donors and invite you to make a difference. If you value our weekly product, please consider contributing. We understand everyone’s financial situation is unique, and any gift—large or small—helps us continue delivering the local news that matters.
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Thank you for your support of Shore Publishing. Together, we can ensure our community remains informed and connected.
Sincerely,
President & Publisher, The Day & Shore Publishing Companies
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FundraiserforFelines
Boilers,
Boilers, WaterHeaters, Wellpumps, Well Tanks, Waterfiltration,Faucets, Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200
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!
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!
Title: Multimedia Sales Executive
Salary: $40,000-$100,000 (includes commission)
Effective Date: September 3, 2025
Position Summary:
Department: Advertising
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Incumbent in this position is responsible for prospecting, qualifying, selling, and closing new clients to increase revenue within designated territory. Incumbent will leverage our extensive portfolio of both print and digital services and audience insights to create and recommend personalized multimedia marketing campaigns for our business customers, connecting them to prime prospects and maximizing their return on investment.
Essential Duties:
Collaborate with marketing representatives to fully understand product and communication needs.
Identify, locate, and develop new customers through a variety of methods including networking and cold calls. Maintain existing relationships with customers. Partner with customers to help them reach their goals, owning the entire sales process from start to finish. Create and recommend products and services that meet the customer’s needs, based off a Customer Needs Analysis.
Provide exceptional customer service, maintaining the highest levels of personal and professional behavior in the market and in the workplace.
Provides information, quotes, credit terms, and other bid specifications to clients.
Develop and demonstrate knowledge of The Days sales and marketing portfolio, including newspaper products, digital marketing services and non-traditional offerings (events, promotions, etc.).
Consistently meet and strive to exceed print and digital revenue targets.
Regularly communicate with management and completion of all required sales process activities.
Embrace new products or programs as the company continues to diversify and test new revenue streams.
Other Duties:
Performs other duties as assigned.
Confidentiality:
Maintains confidentiality records and information.
Conduct:
Always Represents The Day and Shore Publishing Company in a professional and courteous manner.
Dependability:
Regularly attend and are punctual for work.
Supervision Received: Reports to Chief Revenue Officer.
Supervision Exercised: None.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Knowledge of competitive media landscape; use for new business development and sales analysis.
Ability to prospect new business via cold calling and other prospecting techniques including social media where applicable. Highly motivated, self-starting individual with initiative and drive to succeed.
Ability to manage multiple projects and set priorities.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including active listening and the ability to build and deliver effective presentations. Strong networking and community involvement skills.
Eagerness to learn, continually seeking to improve sales skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to details.
Proficient computer and software skills (i.e. Microsoft Excel, Outlook, OneDrive, Word, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams)
Must possess a valid state driver’s license, safe and reliable transportation, including maintaining registration and insurance.
Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in media sales. Prior experience in digital marketing sales highly desirable.
Physical Requirements:
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer and telephone. Must be able to lift 45 pounds at times.
Travel to meet with clients or potential clients.
Please send resume to l.giannelli@theday.com
Togs are Tough Only to a Point
Fall blackfish season has opened in a big way. First, the transition closure from summer to fall served to build anticipation. Second, the weather conditions served up an October Nor-easter, generating high winds and angry seas. When toggers either attempted to do battle with inclement weather conditions or bought time until conditions eased, they had to deal with short fish. Unfortunately, that meant an elevated number of releases.
It is estimated that the discard mortality rate for blackfish (tautog) caught and released in the recreational fishery is 2.5%. A 2020 estimate from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) indicated that this rate resulted in over 600,000 dead discards along the East Coast. While this is the official rate used for fishery management, the actual mortality rate can vary depending on numerous factors.
A tautog’s survival after being released depends on several conditions. One is barotrauma. Togs are susceptible to swim bladder expansion, particularly when they are brought up from deeper water. This can force organs out of the vent, and if the tissue is ruptured, it can lead to a dead short discard. In Long Island Sound, most togs are not caught in deep enough water where the threat of barotrauma is a major concern. However, if caught in deep water and quickly brought to the surface, death can result if the swim bladder is not properly vented.
Fishing in optimal conditions can go a long way in reducing hook-and-release-mortality. One study showed that 42 degrees to 52 degree-water temperatures reduced that rate, as did specific salinity levels - including fishing in depths between 40 and 70 feet. Fishers cannot always fish in optimal conditions. Nevertheless, when dealing with many shorts, they can keep an eye on water temperature and depth, taking into consideration the speed by which fish are reeled in, as well as their subsequent release. On the other hand, extreme conditionssuch as increased summertime water temperatures - can increase mortality by raising a
CAPTAIN MORGAN’S
Fishing report
fish’s stress levels.
Anyone who has ever fished for blackfish knows how tough they are and their inherent ability to slow down their metabolism to a semi-hibernative state. The length of time a fish is out of water, how it is handled, and whether it was deeply or shallowly hooked can impact its survival. Injuries from handling, such as body wounds and spinal damage, can increase infection risk and mortality. Releasing a fish quickly is important, as fighting and being out of the water are stressful events that deplete its energy and oxygen.
Additionally, a deeply hooked or gill-hooked fish has a significantly higher chance of dying than one hooked in the mouth. Especially in the case of tautog, being aware of the slightest tap goes a long way in correctly hooking it and ultimately being successful in releasing a fish that is below the minimum size of 16”. Short togs are short-lived if not handled properly!
On The Water
Low pressure off DelMarVa meandered before tracking north. Low pressure off the North Carolina coast became the primary low that tracked well east of our region. Another low over eastern Canada brought a cold front prior to high pressure building from the west, as low pressure meandered over the open Atlantic. The high finally settled over the area while a warm front passed well to the north, then passed east. Much needed rain soaked the area, along with high winds that made for a damp, raw, and cold stretch of days, along with low inland flooding and many toppled trees. Pre-dawn air temperatures dropped to the mid-30s, as daytime ones struggled to get out of the 40s. During this period of nor’easter unrest, Long Island Sound experienced northeast winds over 45 knots, troubled seas to nine feet, and water temperatures to as low as 62 degrees. In the aftermath, temperatures grappled with getting back into
the 60s, as evenings coasted to the 50s before dropping to the 40s. With the weekend looking up, the trailer army was back in force, togging away while shore anglers wanting to hook a blackfish feeding by a wall, jetty, or nearby rock pile loaded up with bait. Wind and seas settled down enough to put together a few tides of fishing. The story was pretty much the same. Tap, tap - short after short. But then, something tugged harder, and finally, one topping 16” followed by another. For many, more shorts followed, but others had a better catch and effort ratio. The showing was much better than the beginning of opening day. Judging the day by the number of crabs left over vs. how long it took to limit out, for the most part greenies got a long workout, while fillet-able togs zipped by in a flash.
Adult menhaden remained scarce, while schools of peanut bunker popped up from time to time among schools of rainbaits. The run of large blues to 15 pounds and above that played around Guilford for over a week last season has not materialized yet. Instead, harbor blues in the eight to 10-pound range are the ones taking lures and cut baitseven a few flies. Striped bass, on the other hand, have been active in lower parts of key tidal rivers eagerly jumping on chunk baits. Hard and soft lures, live eels, and natural baits have been taken. If timing was right, chunked natural baits have out-produced almost anything else that was thrown - especially in the lower rivers and near shore. Anything like scup, spot, shad, and the like became magnets for over-the-slot striped bass. Diamond jigs, bucktails, and tubed spoons are goto’s, and, in calmer water, small poppers. Try a squid strip when drifting or trolling, and the odds will be in your favor to pick up a weakfish. A little nod to the fish gods may put you in touch with some local hardtails, but putting on some nautical miles would most likely put one on a blitzing school.
For October, bottom fishing is holding its own. Good porgy have been caught in deep water but eased off closer to shore. Black
sea bass still have fishers on them in-between their togging, and most local shark species - especially dogfish - which have a prolonged migration trigger are still around, along with skate and stingrays. Not much in the way of sea robins, but triggerfish are being caught!
Flipping from the briny to the sweet water creates a whole different environment for the angler. Casting for recently stocked trout has been paying off. Stocking got a double dose since water levels rose. Atlantic salmon rivers saw more broodstock, and the lakes and ponds not only saw an increase in trout catches but also generated great large/smallmouth, toothy critter, and panfish action. More anglers caught channel cats as well as bowfin that are quite aggressive fighters in the fall and fairly decent to eat, particularly when fried - knowing anglers say. Colorful back country is calling!
Note: Email us pics of your
catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.
For all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2025 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call 203-245-8665 for updated fall hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.
Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa @hotmail.com captainmorganfish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa
Photo courtesy of Captain Morgan
Looking for Rich Kosa of Guilford? Here you would have found him scouting for the upcoming Outer Banks Red Drum Tournament, as he hooked into these 44”/45” impressive red drum caught on cut bait, 20” line, and conventional 12’ rod.
Guilford Freshman Volleyball Team Completes Undefeated Season
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
The Guilford freshman volleyball team had a dominant season, ending with a perfect 13-0 record. The team showed a lot of toughness and grit, defeating the likes of Daniel Hand, Amity, and Notre Dame-West Haven. The athletes are primed and ready to make a big impact over the remainder of their high school careers.
The Guilford girls' freshman volleyball team posed for a group photo following an undefeated 13-0 season, securing it on Oct. 17 after a victory over Lauralton Hall.
Alpha Therapy & Training
Schedules
Offering New Youth Classes
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
Alpha Therapy & Training is offering new youth classes, including a girls fitness class, a preseason hockey training class, a 4 & 5-year-old fitness class, and a teen fitness class. The girls fitness class (ages 10 to 13) will take place on Mondays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Pre-season hockey training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Wednesdays include the 4 & 5-yearold fitness class from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. as well as the teen fitness class from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
In the 4 & 5-year-old kid fitness classes, the kids will play games, do creative activities and age-appropriate exercises, and have fun while socializing. It is a fun, engaging space for kids to move, build coordination, and develop lifelong healthy habits. The preseason hockey training includes mites (8U) from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and squirts (10U) from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. It is $20 per class to participate.
Alpha Therapy & Training is now holding new youth classes
GUILFORD
Oct. 23 to Oct. 29
at its facility.
Photo courtesy of Alpha Therapy & Training
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier
Halloween Memories
By Liz Egan
Special to Living
As the gentle sprinkle of falling leaves becomes a steady rain, I think back to my memories of Halloween. Colorful mums, pumpkins, and the aroma of the crisp air ignite my thoughts as I reflect on many warm memories of Halloween. I can almost smell the hot apple cider.
Halloween, also known as All Hallows’ Eve, has roots that trace back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This festival marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The Celts believed that during Samhain, the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest, allowing spirits to roam the Earth. People would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off these spirits.
In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III established Nov. 1 as All Saints’ Day, a time to honor saints and martyrs. The evening before this day became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which eventually evolved into Halloween. This transition blended pagan customs with Christian practices, leading to the modern celebration.
Halloween has transformed into a community-oriented holiday, especially in the United States. By the mid-20th century, it became a commercialized event featuring costumes, decorations, and candy. Today, it includes activities like haunted houses, costume parties, and various spooky-themed events. Halloween’s history reflects a blend of ancient pagan rituals and Christian traditions, evolving into the festive celebration we know today. Its customs continue to adapt, making it a unique cultural event celebrated worldwide.
leaves into pieces of clothing to create scarecrows.
Carving pumpkins at the kitchen table was another exciting event as we each imagined a scary or humorous face to carve. In my large family we collected costumes and props in a box in the attic. The day we took the costumes down from the attic was filled with enthusiastic jubilation. Using the costume hand-medowns and additional accessories we would find at a local thrift shop, we would create characters that were uniquely our own.
My large family had three distinct groups—the oldest, the middle, and the youngest. As members of the youngest team, my three younger siblings and I would trick or treat together. After our annual picture, we would start in the older neighborhood across the street. Our home was flanked by houses that were close enough together to manage a sizable number of visits in the course of the afternoon and early evening. Up one street and down another, we were careful not to miss a single house. While those years were in an era where it was more common that woman were at home, even if no one answered we were not disappointed, because we were having fun and there were many more houses in the hours ahead.
Liz with her siblings at Halloween
Joy. I would trade them for Good and Plenty and Now and Laters. We gathered all the fruit and put it in the kitchen for my family to share. We would carefully hide our candy for the inevitable days ahead when my older siblings would come searching for a treat. During my early 30s, I lived in Hartford and was managing director of Company One Theater. The Wadsworth Atheneum, where we were established as the theater-in-residence, would host an annual “Come As You Art” party. As an artist I could not resist.
( )
Halloween: Origins and Traditions, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, iso.mit.edu
When I grew up, Halloween was a much-anticipated celebration. For us children, Halloween was not limited to trick or treating. There were many fun activities to participate in. Generally, a few weeks prior, we would rake leaves in the yard and stuff the
By 6 p.m., we knew to come home for dinner. Knowing our bellies were filling with candy, my mother would prepare a simple meal of chicken noodle soup and open-faced grilled cheese sandwiches to warm us and prepare us for Round 2 of trick or treating. After dinner we dashed out to the newer houses behind our home. The streets were teeming with children like us, some joined by their parents. In a little over two hours, we were able to cover an area over four blocks deep and four blocks wide. The pillowcases we used as bags were now heavyladen.
Now bathed and in pajamas after coming home, we were free to sort and trade our candy booty. Full-size bars, minis, favorites, fruit, and those pieces we didn’t like. In my case, I disliked coconut bars like Mounds and Almond
Thinking outside the common bowler hat with apple that composes a Rene Magritte costume, I looked at one of my favorite abstract expressionist artists, Willem de Kooning. His painting became the subject of one of the costumes I created in the three years I attended. Learning to make simple paper mâché as a child, I created and painted an enormous mask from a balloon and newspaper adding cardboard cuffs to my wrists. The many layers of colorful tuile wrapped around my torso simulated the highly gestural quality of his brushwork.
Woman and Bicycle
As a teacher at Westbrook Middle School, I had a Tuesday
Art Club which hosted a pumpkin carving party that was a highly anticipated event. As many as 50 students would participate in any given year. Many parents volunteered so that we maintained a safe environment. My husband and I would subsidize the event so that all students could participate and have their own pumpkin. My husband Paul,
an engineer, created safe miniature carving tools from coping saw blades and PVC tubing. Parents and I would carve the opening in the top of each pumpkin and students would gut the contents and draw and carve the face.
As each finished, we would See Halloween page 25
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Photo courtesy of Liz Egan
Paul Egan's family of scarecrows on bicycles was a delightful addition to the neighborhood.
For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.
THURSDAY, OCT. 23
Walking Tour of Historical Madison Green
: 10 a.m.
Madison Green. Meet at the Madison Chamber of Commerce, 12 School St. Hosted by the Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). Rain date: Tuesday, Oct. 28. For info or to register, contact 203-747-5939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org.
Health Insurance Decoded
: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Covers a brief primer on terminology, the tricks insurance companies like most to pull, and ways avoid paying charges that are easily avoidable. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
Shoreline Opera Club
: 5:30 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd, Madison. Features a discussion of the recent Met Live in HD broadcast of . Free and open to all. For info, email ShorelineOperaClub@gmail.com.
Author Event: Lev AC Rosen
: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
FRIDAY, OCT. 24 THROUGH
SUNDAY, OCT. 26
The Haunted Trolley Alien Invasion: Connecticut La Sonnambula Mirage City
: Scheduled rides: Friday, and Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 5 to 8 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Features a one-hour interactive trolley event. Limited to 40 passengers per ride. The 5 and 6 p.m. slots are family- and child-friendly rides. Children
Halloween Memories
Continued from page 24
bring the pumpkins for a temporary display in the library. Ballots were created and the entire school voted on the best, scariest, and funniest pumpkin. The event was later expanded to a schoolwide event as each of my students participated by drawing a jack-o’-lantern. These were put up in a lobby display and became part of the voting process.
ages 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $29 for general admission, $49 for VIP haunted ride. Service fees apply. Advance purchase tickets only. For info or tickets, visit thehauntedtrolley.com.
SATURDAY,
OCT. 25
Trail Run
: 8 to 10 a.m. Westwoods, Guilford. Meet at the Sam Hill Road trailhead. Features a five-mile run at a social pace through Westwoods, following the Orange Trail north and heading back on the White Trail. New trail runners are encouraged. No one will be left behind. Hosted by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust (GLCT). Led by GLCT Directors Bernadette Bober and Jodie Lang. For info, text 203-508-2064.
Saturday Fall Migration Bird Walk
: 8 to 10:30 a.m. Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison. Meet at 7:50 a.m. at The Audubon Shop parking lot, 907 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Carpool to the park at 8 a.m. Cost: $6 per person in cash, due upon arrival. Preregistration is not required. Beginners welcome. Binoculars are necessary and can be rented for $4. For info or to rent a pair of binoculars, call The Audubon Shop at 203-245-9056 or visit theaudubonshop.com/events.
Calendar for the Week of October 23, 2025
Watercolors En Plein Air: Chaffinch Island Park
Guilford Seniors Annual Holiday Craft Fair :
: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features gently used pocketbooks, jewelry, puzzles, holiday and everyday decorations, sewn items, pet toys and garments, knitted and crocheted sweaters, hats, a bake sale, an auction, and more. Breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase. Proceeds benefit programs for the Guilford seniors. For info, call 203-453-8068.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Class will work outdoors at Chaffinch Island Park weather permitting, but indoors if needed. Cost: $37.80 for members, $42 for nonmembers. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
2025 Worth Tasting Tour
: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Departs from the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, 155 Temple St. Features a culinary walking tour to six to eight restaurants in downtown New Haven. Hosted by Stephen Fries, food columnist and professor of hospitality management. Last date: Saturday, Dec. 13 (holiday tour). Parking available at the Crown Street or Temple Street Garage. Tickets: $80, except for the December tour, which is $85. Service fees apply. For info or to make a reservation (required), call 203-415-3519 or visit worthtasting.co/newhaven.
Fifth Annual Disc Golf Tournament
: 11 a.m. Bittner Park, 1346-1450 Durham Rd., Guilford. Cost: $40, includes one disc, a score card, and snacks. All levels welcome. Proceeds benefit Meals on Wheels. Rain date: Sunday, Oct. 26. For info or to register (required), call 203-4538359.
Secret Life of Owls
: 11 a.m. to noon. Yellow Munger Barn, The Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features a great horned owl, an Eastern screech owl, a barred owl, and a red-shouldered hawk. Presented by Rose Crisci of Blue Moon Raptors, a place that rescues birds of prey and offers educational programs on the role they play in maintaining the balance of nature. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com/events.
St. Marys High School New Haven Class of 1975 50th Reunion
: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Woodwinds, 29 Schoolground Rd., Branford. For info, contact Laura Ruoppolo Spignesi at lauraspignesi@yahoo.com.
See page 26
I have fond memories of those days and the evenings Paul and I spent counting the many ballots so they could be announced during the next morning’s school news program. Carving pumpkins was an annual activity that Paul and I both enjoyed, and we frequently invited relatives and friends to participate with us.
In the first year of Clinton’s scarecrow contest, Paul, also known as “The Bike Guy,” created a family of scarecrows on
bicycles in front of our home. Paul, a frequent visitor of the local Goodwill store, purchased clothing in all sizes. Similar to my days as a child making scarecrows, he stuffed the legs, shirt, and hoodies, with leaves. He added a halved milk jug drawn with a face into the hoodie. Paul tied the gloves and sneakers filled with leaves to the bikes. The effect was wonderful. Although the contest was limited to businesses in town, his display was a delightful
addition to our neighborhood. The fun events and activities of the past are the special memories I will always cherish. Today, I have young children as neighbors. I hope to have the opportunity to make a scarecrow or carve a pumpkin with them and continue to make memories for them and for me.
After all, aren’t the memories we create together what the best of life is all about?
Broadway and Film Star Hugh Jackman Visits The Legacy Theatre
The Legacy Theatre, finishing its mainstage season with a sellout run of the comedy , had a very special guest in the audience at the afternoon performance on Oct. 1.
Noises Off
Hugh Jackman, one of the most accomplished actors in recent times (accolades include Emmy, Grammy, Tony, and Golden Globe Awards, as well as multiple Academy Award nominations), was in town to see his friend James Roday Rodriguez star in The Legacy Theatre’s production of the zany three-act show.
Roday Rodriguez said, “Very cool for this Great Showman to support regional theatre on the Connecticut shoreline—cast and crew were stoked to touch his arms and use this boost to finish the 22-show run.”
From New York With Love
Jackman just wrapped a 24-show run, , at New York City’s famed Radio City Music Hall. He won the 2004 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for . More recently, he was nominated for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his role as Professor Harold Hill in the 2022 revival of .
The Boy From Oz The Music Man
Continued from page 25
Legacy Managing Director Jeff Zeitlin commented, “It’s rather daunting to have a star of Hugh’s caliber join us. He was gracious and kind in his comments about both the show and our jewel box theatre. We were thrilled to have him join us. He’s welcome back anytime!”
The Legacy Theatre is conveniently located just four minutes off I-95, Exit 56, at 128 Thimble Islands Road in the Stony Creek Village of Branford, steps from the Long Island Sound.
The Legacy Theatre, a fully accessible professional theatre company and training center, is a cultural hub along the Connecticut shoreline, uniting audiences through timeless classics and fresh contemporary theatre. Legacy is dedicated to being a dynamic incubator of emerging new works, nurturing the next generation of visionary theatre-makers, and inspiring a lifelong love for the arts in audiences of all ages. The theatre, fully renovated prior to its opening in 2021, is housed in the former Stony Creek Puppet Theatre, a building with a century of rich history that includes performances by Orson Welles, and in 2024, a musical directed by Julie Andrews.
Mixed Media Mask Workshop
: Noon to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For children ages 8 and up. Using paper pulp masks as a base, students will add paper and mixed-media collage materials to create a custom mask to wear for Halloween or hang on display. Parents are welcome to attend but must register individually. Cost: $54 for members, $60 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $20 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
Halloween Magic Art
: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For children ages 4 and up. Cost: $27 for members, $30 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $15 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
Branford Fire Department Volunteer Companies Open Houses
: 4 to 8 p.m. Three locations: Station 2, 341 Main St., Branford, near Richlin’s Plaza; Station 4, 64 Shore Dr., Short Beach; Station 5, 41 School St., Stony Creek. Visitors can learn about the volunteer companies and what they do. Includes fire safety information. Hotdogs and hamburgers served. For info, email Harold Barringham at hbarringham@branfordfire.com.
Pork Roast Dinner Take-out
: 4:30 to 6 p.m. Tabor Lutheran Church, 45 Tabor Dr., Branford. Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for small size. Menu: pork roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, red cabbage, apple sauce, bread, and dessert. Payment by cash, check (made out to Tabor),
credit card, PayPal, or Venmo @TaborChurchand Preschool. For info or to place an order, visit the event link at taborchurch.net.
: 7 to 10:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Tickets start $200. Includes food, drink, bidding in the silent and live auctions, photo booth, and costume contest. For info or tickets, visit elmshakespeare.org.
SUNDAY, OCT.
26
: 9 a.m. Vista Innovations, 107 Bradley Rd., Madison. Features a three-mile walk through downtown Madison and along the shoreline. Check-in at 9 a.m. Walk kicks off 10 a.m., led by Lancraft Fife and Drum Corps. Proceeds benefit the Edward Gallant Financial Aid Fund, which provides need-based assistance to help underwrite essential services for members of Vista’s Engage Program. For info, visit the Walk for Vista link at vistalifeinnovations.org.
Document Shredding Event
: 9 a.m. to noon. Temple
Beth Sholom parking lot, 1809 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Includes hard drive destruction and computer recycling. Only paper items allowed for shredding. No CDs. Paper documents should be in boxes; no trash bags or paper bags. Cost: $10 per small copy box, $20 per large banker box, $20 for hard drive destruction and computer recycling, $20 for a CRT monitor, $10 for a hard drive only. For info, email fundraising@tbshamden.com.
: 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.
: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Wood frames and a collection of glass pieces, beads, and ephemera will be provided. Bring your favorite odds and ends to personalize your art project. Cost: $75.60 for members, $84 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $55 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Students learn which stones can be fired in the kiln and how to flush-set stones to fire in metal clay. Cost: $166.50 for members, $185 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $130 is payable with the tuition and a small tool kit can be rented for $3. For info or to register, call 203-4535947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
A Literary Launch: Two Genres, Two Kates Meditations from the Center of the Stream Observations of an Ordinary Life
: 11:30 a.m.
North Madison Congregational Church Friendship Hall, 1271 Durham Rd. Features poetry readings by Madison editor and poet Kate Davis from her book, , and a reading by Guilford writer and poet Kate Summerlin from her memoir, . Includes refreshments. For info, visit northmadisoncc.org.
See page 28
Press Release from the Legacy Theatre
Photo courtesy of The Legacy Theatre
Actor Hugh Jackman chats with "Noises Off" cast member Mariah Sage.
Halloween
The Moonlight Masquerade Ball
Walk for Vista 2025
Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show
Glass Mosaic Window
Stone Setting with Silver Metal Clay: Finishing and Firing
Yale Rep’s Production of Introduces Us to a Vibrant Community Spunk
Review THEATER
By Karen Isaacs
Special to Living
Spunk
by Zora Neale Hurston, getting a very belated world premiere full production at the Yale Rep, was written in 1935, but was not found until 1997 in the Library of Congress. The musical play is based on a short story of the same title that Hurston wrote and published in 1925. (Ironically, in the 1980s, director George C. Wolfe adapted the short story and two others into a play, by Zora Neale Hurston that had a production off-Broadway in 1991.)
Spunk: Three Tales
The lively Yale Rep production runs through Saturday, Oct. 25.
Zora Neale Hurston wrote short stories, novels, and plays. But she was also an ethnographic researcher, folklorist, and cultural anthropologist who published academic articles and taught at several universities. She was a major figure of the Harlem Renaissance—that period between the wars when music, art, dance, and literature flourished in Harlem—but whose works were forgotten for many years.
Spunk
uses a combination of Hurston’s skills to tell the story of Spunk and the residents of a Black-incorporated town in central Florida in 1935. She uses her playwrighting and academic skills to focus on the people and the music of the town. The play is teeming with songs, most of which are folk songs, though the Yale production includes a few new songs and others with new lyrics. But these were the songs that Hurston discovered in her research.
Though Hurston was talented, her work was criticized by other Black writers for its use of
dialects, which were considered demeaning and stereotypical. In addition, her conservative politics—she felt that the New Deal social programs created depen-
dency and criticized the Supreme Court’s Brown vs. the Board of Education in the 1950s as unnecessary—were not appreciated. This play is not heavy on plot.
The story is relatively simple. Spunk, a handsome and charismatic young man, arrives in the town with his guitar, and soon all the locals are smitten with him.
The men admire his skill in handling the most dangerous saw at the local mill; the women are attracted to his good looks and charm. But Spunk has eyes only for Evalina; unfortunately, she is married to Jim, whose father, Hodge Bishop, practices the black arts. When Jim comes after Spunk with a knife, Spunk shoots him. Hodge then announces he has “put his mark” on Spunk.
All this occurs in the first half of the play. It is so jam-packed with music and action that you might wonder where it will go in the second half. And that is one of the difficulties Hurston faced and did not conquer. The second half gets bogged down.
While the original story had an unhappy ending, in her musical
version, Hurston made it a happy ending.
Director Tamilla Woodard and choreographer nicHi douglas have done all they could to hide the problems with the show. It is best if you just sit back and enjoy the songs, the dancing, and the fine performances.
Hurston included in the play the activities the residents used to build community—the card game Pitch, croquet, and the toe party, in which men select their partners for the evening by viewing only their toes.
The play opens with a gang of men singing as they shovel and pick ax the hard soil. While it isn’t clear if this is just a work gang or a prison chain gang, it is through the song and their talk that we start hearing about Spunk.
We then move to the town, which has gathered to party, play, and gossip; everyone knows everyone and their business. Spunk is the center of attention, with several women vying for him—Ruby, in particular. The scene is filled with songs and dancing.
As the story moves along, that is the feature—everyone is always present and ready to comment.
Yale has assembled a fine cast—from J. Quinton Johnson as Spunk and Kimber Elayne Sprawl as Evalina, to Kimberly Marable as Ruby and Jennifer Bayardelle as Mrs. Watson. The cast gives these somewhat generic characters individuality.
Hurston wrote the language that she heard during her research, so the characters speak in a vernacular that some may find difficult to understand. But even if you don’t understand every word, the story still comes through clearly.
Hurston’s work is worth discovering, and offers a picture of people who, despite the restrictions and prejudices that surrounded them in white society, built a vibrant community.
For more information or tickets, visit YaleRep.org. Spunk
Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus
The cast of Yale Rep production of "Spunk" by Zora Neale Hurston
Photo courtesy of Joan Marcus "Spunk" runs through Saturday, Oct. 25.
Second Annual Charity Golf Tournament Raises over $36,000
Press
On Monday, Sept. 29, over 100 people gathered at the Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club in Branford for the second annual charity golf tournament supporting the Branford Community Foundation (BCF). With a sold-out tournament, practically perfect weather, and a stunning course on which to play, the fundraiser was an all-around success, raising over $36,000 for the foundation.
“We are beyond grateful for the incredible turnout at our second annual charity golf tournament,” said BCF Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra. “I want to extend my sincerest thanks to everyone who played in the tournament, joined us for dinner, was a sponsor or prize donor, or donated during the event. Every dollar raised ensures that we can continue to provide for the educational, cultural, health, social, and civic needs of our community.”
The day kicked off with registration, putting practice, and driving at the range, before participants enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by the Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club staff. The tournament officially began with a shotgun start, followed by an afternoon of friendly competition. A lively buffet dinner, awards, and the pulling of the prize drawing winners rounded out the evening as golfers and attendees listened to remarks from Petra, BCF co-founder David Etzel, and Thimble Island Private Wealth Managing Director Logan J. Reed and Vice President Matthew C. Fleming. Thimble Island Private Wealth served as the presenting sponsor of the event. Other featured sponsors included dinner sponsors Cherry Hill Glass and Karp & Langerman, P.C., lunch sponsors Betty Ann Donegan, The Etzel Family, and Ascend Bank, and long hole drive sponsor Knightsbridge Supply Company Inc. BCF plans for the tournament to continue annually, and looks forward to sharing the date of the 2026 tournament soon.
For more information on upcoming grants, sponsorships, and community events, or to make a contribution to the Branford Community Foundation, email Marketing@ BranfordCommunityFoundation.org.
Continued from page 26
McDaniel and Karen Mason
: 2 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Ticket subscriptions are available. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, contact the Legacy Theatre at 203-315-1901 or Info@LegacyTheatreCT.org, or visit legacytheatrect.org.
in Branford.
MONDAY, OCT. 27
membership of $35. Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.
Wesleyan Spirits A Cappella Concert 1875 Steinway's 150th Celebration Concert
: 2 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Sponsored by the Friends of Blackstone Library. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.
: 4 p.m.
First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features Duo Fuerza, composed of pianists James D’León and Alwen Yeung. Part of the Music at the Meetinghouse concert series. Tickets: $20, at the door. For info, contact Nathan Bayreuther at 203-245-2739, ext. 14, or nbayreuther@fccmadison.org.
Exploring Apple’s New Operating System for iPhones
: 3 to 4:45 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, call 203-2457365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
Octoberfest
: 7 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Features a performance at 7 p.m. of Sarah Kronenberg’s cabaret,
The Strange Adventures of an Accidental Theatre Kid: A Musical Adventure
; a reception at 8 p.m. with light refreshments, a 50/50 raffle, and more. Hosted by Brief Cameo Productions. Tickets: $30. For info or tickets, visit briefcameoproductions.com.
TUESDAY, OCT. 28
Sharks in Long Island Sound
: 10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by MaryEllen Mateleska, senior director for education and conservation at the Mystic Aquarium. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members, with an annual
Agroforestry with Florencia Montagnini
: 5 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Co-sponsored by Guilford Free Library and Shoreline Village CT. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29
Civil Liberties and the Supreme Court
: 10 a.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Presented by Andy Schatz, retired lawyer, former president of the ACLU of Connecticut, and member of the national ACLU board and executive committee. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members, with an annual membership of $35. Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.
Release from Branford Community Foundation
Photo courtesy of Branford Community Foundation
The second annual charity golf tournament supporting the Branford Community Foundation (BCF) was held at the Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club
Sunday Broadway Concert Series with John
Continued from page 28
The Secrets to Building a Financial Plan that Works
: 1 to 2 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Third in a three-part Women and Money Roundtable series designed specifically for women of all levels of financial knowledge. Facilitated by wealth and financial advisors Julia Strayer and Liz Maccarone. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.
Courtly Intrigue and Whispers as Weapons with Historical Fiction Queen Philippa Gregory
Boleyn Traitor
tute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members, with an annual membership of $35. Cost: $5 for all four sessions plus $35 for a 2025 briefing book. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.
Shoreline Village Tea and Talk
: 2 p.m.
Parthenon Diner, 374 E. Main St., Branford. Features a conversation with members of Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to register, contact 203-747-5939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org.
Raffle to Win a 2026 Ineos Grenadier
Press Release from Acton Public Library
The Acton Public Library Foundation, Inc. is launching a raffle for a 2026 Ineos Grenadier Fieldmaster edition in the color of the winner’s choice (MSRP not to exceed $89,800) in support of a meaningful cause: the upcoming renovation of the Acton Public Library in Old Saybrook, Connecticut.
is a new vehicle and was introduced in 2024.”
“This is your chance to drive something remarkable and be a part of something even bigger,” said Charles Farrow, board chair of the Acton Public Library Foundation. “The funds raised will have a longlasting impact on generations of learners and community members.”
: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries. :
Willoughby Book Talk: by Ivan Turgenev
: 7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Open to all. For info or to register, call the library at 203488-8702 or visit wwml.org/events.
What's Up with the U.S. Constitution?
6 p.m. Memorial Town Hall, 8 Meeting House Ln., Madison. Presented by Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, state senator and teacher of constitutional law and related courses at Quinnipiac University. Sponsored by the League of Women Voters of the East Shore. For info, email eastshoreleague@yahoo.com.
FRIDAY, OCT. 31
Witch-Crafts: Halloween Broom-making Workshop
: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For high school-aged teens. Part of GAC's drop-in art club. Free. No prior registration or Guilford residency required. For info, call 203453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
Annual Trunk or Treat
: 6:30 p.m.
Author Event: Mona Awad in Conversation with Maeve Cunningham
R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book:
We Love You, Bunny: A Novel
. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29 AND
THURSDAY, OCT. 30
Creative Crafts with Jesse: Paper Quilled Fall Tree
: Wednesday, 6 to 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Adult participants will learn to paper quill to make a fall tree on a card base. No experience required. All materials provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
: 4 to 6 p.m. Madison Town Green. Features vehicles with decorated trunks, free candy and treats from businesses and organizations, and Halloween festivities. Presented by the Madison Chamber of Commerce and Madison Police Department. For info, call the Madison Chamber of Commerce at 203-245-7394 or visit madisonct.com.
FRIDAY, OCT. 31 AND
SATURDAY, NOV. 1
The Haunted Trolley Alien Invasion: Connecticut
THURSDAY, OCT. 30
Great Decisions
: 10 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Topic: International Climate Cooperation in an Era of Geopolitical Turmoil. First of four consecutive Thursday sessions through Nov. 20. Led by Tom Lee, a facilitator of Great Decisions discussion groups. Great Decisions is a program produced by the Foreign Policy Association. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Insti-
SATURDAY, NOV. 1
Saturday Fall Migration Bird Walk Fathers and Sons
: Scheduled rides: Friday, 5 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m. The Shore Line Trolley Museum, 17 River St., East Haven. Features a one-hour interactive trolley event. Limited to 40 passengers per ride. The 5 and 6 p.m. slots are familyand child-friendly rides. Children ages 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $29 for general admission, $49 for VIP haunted ride. Service fees apply. Advance purchase tickets only. For info or tickets, visit thehauntedtrolley.com. : 8 to 10:30 a.m. Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison. Meet at 7:50 a.m. at The Audubon Shop parking lot, 907 Boston
The raffle officially opens at noon on Oct. 15 and runs through noon on Aug. 31, 2026. The winner will be announced at 6 p.m. on Sept. 1, 2026, at the Acton Public Library.
All proceeds from the raffle benefit The Acton Public Library Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the library’s mission and raising funds for its long-anticipated renovation project. The upgraded library will provide expanded spaces, modern resources, and improved accessibility for residents of all ages in Old Saybrook and beyond.
“This is a unique way to support an essential community hub while also having the chance to drive away in a really cool vehicle,” said Victoria Miller, chief development officer of the Acton Public Library Foundation. “The Ineos Grenadier
Post Rd., Madison. Carpool to the park at 8 a.m. Cost: $6 per person in cash, due upon arrival. Preregistration is not required. Beginners welcome. Binoculars are necessary and can be rented for $4. For info or to rent a pair of binoculars, call The Audubon Shop at 203-245-9056 or visit theaudubonshop.com/events.
: 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St., Guilford. Features jewelry, estate treasures, records, tools, bakery, knitting, toys, Christmas items for gift-giving, furniture, a breakfast and lunch cafe, and more. Payment for purchases by cash and check only. For info, contact the church at 203453-5249 or office@firstchurchguilford.org.
Drop Spindle Wool Spinning Workshop (Session B)
: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Students will learn fiber preparation, spinning techniques, and ways to ply yarn. Materials provided. Cost: $37.80 for members, $42 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $18 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.
Tickets cost $100 each with a maximum of 6,000 tickets available. Tickets can be purchased at https://onecau.se/acton. To be eligible, a ticket holder must be 18+ and a legal U.S. resident. All raffle tickets are electronically generated and numbered through OneCause. Participants must purchase tickets using a credit or debit card in U.S. dollars and agree to all applicable terms and conditions.
The winner will be selected at random by OneCause and does not need to be present at the drawing to win. The winner will be notified on Sept. 1, 2026, and must respond within 14 days to claim the prize.
A complete list of terms and conditions is available at https://onecau.se/acton. To make a donation to the Acton Public Library Foundation, visit https://one cau.se/donateaplf
: 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.
Stony Creek Farmers Market
: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 2. Bayview Park, Thimble Island Rd., Branford. For info, email Clara.pagliaro@gmail.com or visit scfarmersmarket.org.
The Dudley Farm Farmers Market
: 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. Farmers Market Farmers Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds
Annual Harvest Fair
Real Estate Transactions
BRANFORD
Harriett Mahoney of Branford to Jennifer J Wright RET and Jennifer J. Wright, $620,000 on 10/02/2025
Markham Lt and Edward D. Markham of Branford to Franklin and Yifang Chen, $637,000 on 10/01/2025
Brian and Kara Phillips of Branford to Bruce Shillinglaw, $476,000 on 10/03/2025
Brian and Kara Phillips of Branford to Bruce Shillinglaw, $476,000 on 10/03/2025
David R. Carlson of Branford to J D & Debra G Nardini RET and Joseph D. Nardini, $575,000 on 10/01/2025
Dube Judith M Est and Michelle L. Austin of Branford to Brandon M. Whalen and Megan Goetsch, $320,000 on 10/01/2025
Nina Rapuano of Branford to Irtaza and Alle Z. Zaidi, $550,000 on 10/03/2025
12
10/01/2025
6 Kelsey Rd: 2 Menunketesuck
J J & P A Binkowski
Jret and Joseph J. Binkowski of Clinton to John and Kathryn S. Christolini, $675,000 on 10/01/2025
Jill S. Kuo of Clinton to Adam Greene, $490,000 on 10/02/2025
Athanasios and Chris A. Psillas of Clinton to David and Jodi Kryzanski, $792,000 on 10/01/2025
DEEP RIVER
Jonathan Ohr of Deep River to Clare and Robert Dube, $245,000 on 09/30/2025
EAST HAVEN
Thomas F. and Francis M. Nerkowski of East Haven to Advance Hvac LLC, $126,200 on 09/30/2025
Pellegrino Alice M Est and Thomas C. Pellegrino of East Haven to Steven R. and Violette Prinz, $389,900 on 10/02/2025
John Mackay of East Haven to Richard Schiliro and Daria Kania, $155,000 on 10/01/2025
Mohamed Ali of East Haven to Nicholas M. Forren, $155,000 on 09/30/2025
Anne Persico of East Haven to Lucy Lano and Anthony Savo, $360,050 on 09/29/2025
Hans Loricco of East Haven to Michael G. and Denise N. Meliti, $190,000 on 09/29/2025
Ricci Robert Est and Melissa Ricci of East Haven to Jorge G. and Nilsa J. Burgos, $350,000 on 10/03/2025
Joseph P. Guarino of East Haven to Amy Guarino, $300,000 on 10/02/2025
Pondview Ter:
Roderick and Omayra Toppin of East Haven to Dishawn and Lillian Bell, $390,000 on 10/02/2025
River Rd:
Charles Schmidt and Primary Res Mortgage Inc of East Haven to Gzz Ss Us LLC, $258,250 on 09/30/2025
ESSEX
Oak Dr:
Anthony and Catherine L. Gazikas of Essex to William H. and Susan A. Fenn, $821,000 on 10/02/2025
Sunset Ter:
Sandra M. Harreys of Essex to Nicholas Zamsky, $475,000 on 10/02/2025
GUILFORD
Windfall Ln:
John P. Corwin and Diana L. Insolio of Guilford to Philip A. Madonna, $590,000 on 10/03/2025
Frederick E. and Kerry M. Rosa of Guilford to Mark A. Benevento and Sarah K. Gutman, $631,050 on 10/01/2025
KILLINGWORTH
Thomas J. Lockwood of Killingworth to Frasher and Cassandra Lulaj, $3,000,000 on 10/01/2025
Olivia B. Drake of Killingworth to Samuel Barber, $480,000 on 09/29/2025
MADISON
Shannon A.
White and Virgil Roberson of Guilford to Jon and Marguerite Romeo, $625,000 on 10/03/2025
Deer Ln:
Stephen C. and Christine M. Szufnarowski of Guilford to Allan and Tomoko Tarantino, $720,920 on 09/30/2025
Forest Brook Rd:
Decesare
Patricia S Est and Christine Piscitelli of Guilford to Brian J. and Megan E. Lee, $600,000 on 10/02/2025
Graves Ave:
Deborah C. Spalding of Guilford to Paul P. and Robin L. Ehrlich, $1,012,500 on 10/01/2025
Philip L. Ross of Guilford to Hilary E Weissberg T and Joseph B. Weissberg, $745,000 on 10/02/2025
F Vigliotti Const Co LLC of Guilford to Brian D. and Sarah C. Ward, $814,536 on 09/30/2025 170 Barker Hill Dr:
Peter and Amy Almo of Madison to Carmen and Grace Balzano, $1,525,000 on 10/02/2025
John L. Parks and Kimberly A. Stasiak of Madison to Peter J. Tuohy and Ellen M. Gessler, $941,000 on 10/02/2025
Robert C Miller T and Laura Miller of Madison to Cynthia K. Rinaldi, $470,000 on 10/01/2025
Mary Junno and Joshua Casey of Madison to Eugene and Gloria Mauro, $700,000 on 09/29/2025
Scarlett A. and John Atkins of Madison to Megan and Cormac Roberts, $801,000 on
17 Harbour Vlg Unit F:
Indian Woods Rd:
Leetes Island Rd:
Leetes Island Rd:
Oak Gate Dr:
Sherwood St:
168 Shore Dr:
CLINTON
Nichols Evelya B Est and Jennifer N. Wilson of Clinton to Renee and Arthur Allen, $349,000 on
Alden Dr:
LONG TERM CARE PRESENTATION
Named to
FORBES 2025 TOP RIA FIRMS LIST
SHOOK Research announced that Essex Financial has been selected as one of the Top Registered Investment Advisory Firms in the United States for 2025 by Forbes.
“We are honored to be recognized by Forbes as one of the nation’s top Registered Investment Advisory firms for the fourth consecutive year. This recognition is especially meaningful to us because it reflects the very core of our mission: providing trusted, personalized wealth management and financial planning advice to our clients. Achievements like this are only possible thanks to the dedication of our financial advisors and the support of our entire team, who work tirelessly each day with one goal in mind— helping our clients achieve their financial and life goals with confidence.
While we are deeply honored by this recognition, what matters most is the trust our clients place in us. We do not take that responsibility lightly, and the entire Essex Financial team works each day to continue earning it. We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of service, integrity, and care that our clients deserve,” stated Chuck Cumello, President & CEO of Essex Financial.
Proven Experience, Personal Touch
Since 2003, Essex Financial has been helping individuals, families, and businesses across Connecticut and beyond achieve their financial and life goals. Today, we manage and advise on more than $4 billion in assets under management and administration for over 2,700 households and businesses. Our reputation is built on providing smart, personalized solutions that adapt as your life and priorities change.
As a subsidiary of Essex Bank, we combine the strength and stability of a trusted financial institution with the flexibility and personalized service of an independent advisory firm. Our mission is simple—help you feel confident, supported, and excited about your financial future.
