Harbor News 01-01-26

January 1, 2026

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Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXVIV Iss. 1

Year in Review: Westbrook Faced Roof Issues, Court Rulings

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

Westbrook may be a small town, but 2025 sure was an interesting year. From exciting development proposals to controversial court rulings, and an election, Westbrook had a series of changes over 2025. The highlights are below:

b

January

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After 50 years of operation, the Valley Shore Animal Welfare League officially merges with the Bristol-based Army’s Legacy Animal Rescue and Sanctuary In a bid to better serve the animals and people of the Westbrook community, the new organization begins extensive renovations on the headquarters property at 647 Horse Hill Road in Westbrook.

The Coastal Resiliency Committee of Clinton, Westbrook, and Old Saybrook holds presentations in all three towns from Feb. 24 to Feb. 26 to share the results of a regional Coastal Resiliency Plan, which recommends projects to combat rising sea levels in the area.

February

See page 12

Matt Park and his daughter Ava laugh after sliding off their sled at the Westbrook Athletic Fields on Sunday, Feb. 9.The approximately 4 inches of overnight snowfall drew dozens of visitors who enjoyed sledding, building snowmen, and an occasional snowball fight.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Harbor News

An introduction to our new Shore Publishing sports editor, Serenity Bishop, who is looking to cover high school athletics like never before.................................2

Sports Year in Review Shore Publishing provides its annual roundup of all the top high school athletic accomplishments seen in our local towns, along with a plethora of great photos summarizing the high points of our young students as they compete for titles...19

Living Year in Review Check out what’s hot at the 20th Annual Goodspeed Festival of New Musicals from Friday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, Jan. 18...........................22

KEEP CALM

AND

SHARE THE JOY!

Happy Holidays

Red House, Deep River

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JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

An Introduction to Shore’s New Sports Editor

By Lee Howard Acting Managing Editor

Welcome to 2026!

We open the new year with town-bytown wrap-ups of all the major news in all five of our Shore Publishing publications, but we also start 2026 with a new sports editor, Serenity Bishop, who has replaced Gabby Maljanian, who did such a great job ensuring high school coverage over the past few months. Gabby has become a leading sports podcaster in Connecticut, and we wish her well.

Serenity Bishop is a known quantity to many of you. A resident of Bristol, he has freelanced for Shore in the past and his experience includes work as senior sports editor for The Bristol Press, where he covered both the WNBA and UConn basketball.

My impression of Serenity is that he loves all sports and will do a great job covering the local high school sports scene, from Deep River to Branford. He hit the ground running just last week by knocking out year-end reviews of all the local teams who made an impact in the area in 2025, so he quickly became familiar with the best of the best. He’ll be covering all sports,

WHAT'S GOING ON Lee Howard

including ones that sometimes get short shrift.

But he needs your help. Feel free to send him an email at serenity.bishop@ shorepublishing.com to offer tips, send results and generally ensure that the teams you care about get good coverage.

He’ll also take nominations for Sports Person of the Week, a regular feature.

We can’t do it without you, so welcome him aboard.

And to all those high school journalists out there who might be interested in writ-

ing stories, please reach out to Serenity.

He has a lot to cover, and we could use a little help! Having a byline in the paper looks good on your college resume as well.

We at Shore Publishing believe in the power of local sports to motivate students who otherwise might be floundering and teach them several important skills, including dedication, leadership, teamwork and the importance of hard work.

Ask any high school athlete what effect sports teams had on their lives, and they will inevitably cite these important qualities and more.

We rely heavily on local coaches to provide us information to cover your teams, but not every coach has the time or inclination to do so. So we will count sometimes on others, including athletic directors, parents and even student athletes themselves to keep us on our toes and give local teams their moment in the sun. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me at l.howard@theday.com or to Serenity if we are missing some important competitions and teams that are competing well.

Serenity has covered basketball, football, baseball, hockey and many other See An Introduction page 9

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COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

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Shoreline Arts Alliance is now accepting applications for the 46th annual Scholarships in the Arts program..............................................27

Quote

of the week

“We are proud to mark the 20 anniversary of our Festival of New Musicals. I am humbled that the festival, which was a simple idea 20 years ago, has now become a major industry event showcasing incredibly talented writers and their new musicals.”

- Goodspeed Artistic Director Donna Lynn Hilton...................22 th

Harbor News (usps 021-276)

Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Old Saybrook, CT 06475 Postmaster: Send address changes to Harbor News, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Index Letters................................................... 4 Obituaries............................................ 5 Classifieds..........................................15 Sudoku...............................................18 Sports..................................................19 Living..................................................22 Calendar.............................................25 Horoscopes.......................................28 Crossword Puzzle...........................28 Real Estate.........................................31

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JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

to Letters the Editor Cameras Aren’t the Answer Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1998 Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Editorial Staff

Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

My latest knowledge is that Clinton is actively considering red-light and speed cameras, with the Town Council moving to pass an ordinance and the DOT needing to approve their plan, cameras are not yet active. The proposed locations include Route 81 intersections (Big Y, Glenwood Rd., North High St.) and Killingworth Turnpike near The Morgan School, aiming to improve safety with fines for violations like running reds or speeding by 10+ mph, following a state law enabling such systems.

However, more than two decades after the first red-light cameras were installed, the verdict is in – and it’s not positive.

While sold as lifesaving tools – to deter dangerous behavior, reduce crashes, and make intersections safer – once they were turned off, safety didn’t get worse. In many places, it actually improved.

Houston voted to shut down their program, following allegations of data manipulation and learning that there were more not fewer rear-end collisions.

Cleveland, New Jersey and San Diego

followed similar paths. The pattern repeated: inflated ‘before’ numbers, negligible improvements and higher rearend crash rates where cameras remained active. When enforcement shifted to engineering fixes – better signal timing, longer yellow intervals and clear signage – violations and crashes dropped naturally.

The real incentive for towns and providers is cash and control – behind the safety rhetoric lies an industry built on steady revenue (upon which a town also builds an addiction). Private vendors like Redflex and American Traffic solutions have repeatedly been caught bribing officials or manipulating data to secure contracts.

When enforcement depends on private profit, fairness collapses. Cameras cease being safety measures, shifting to a profit-driven business model. Driver mistakes should not be a funding source.

Let’s have our smart engineers devise a solution.

Frank Faeth Old Saybrook

Thanks to Acton Public Library Twelve years ago, I got a smart phone (age 52 then). I was at work and asked “the new kid” next to me a question in which he responded, “Google it”.

Hmmm. Okkkk… Then I had to go to a field work location and called the field office for directions as usual and the person said, “here’s the address use Mapquest”. Hmmm. Okkkk…Yup time are changing. And whoa, as I sit in front of my computer, I was glad I took typing in high school.

So here we are in 2026. I have computer skills from my working days so adapting was not difficult for me. However, for many seniors (and even those who work or worked in fields that did not require computers) this computer/online world is a learning curve.

Applying for a little part-time job, “go online.” Medical appointments, use My Chart. Need a ride somewhere, “use Uber.” Tickets for a show, “go online to

Ticket Master,” and save it to your phone “wallet.” Returning an Amazon item, save the kiosk to your phone and on and on.

So as I am in the library checking out a “large print” novel, so I don’t have to put on my reading glasses I take a look at the “technical assistance” desk. So many seniors and others taking advantage of the help they can receive from the library with a scheduled appointments to learn how to “download an app,” create accounts, and yes even for some, hard to believe but creating an email address.

So, I just wanted to give some thanks to the Town of Old Saybrook and the Acton Public Library for providing these services that many may not even know are available!

Sharon Ruzycki Old Saybrook

See Letters page 9

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COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Obituaries

Contacting Harbor News

Obituary

Robert Pierce Little Old Saybrook Robert Pierce Little, lovingly known as Bob, was born in 1932 in Somerville, Massachusetts, to Josephine Hurley Little and John Ivers Little.

He grew up in a lively, close-knit Irish immigrant family in a bustling three-story tenement, surrounded by generations of relatives, his grandparents Daniel “Pa” Hurley and Mary Ellen “Minnie” Stack, his mother, his sister Patty, two uncles, two aunts, and many cousins. Bob carried a deep pride in his Irish heritage and in the wide circle of family that shaped him, especially his 27 cousins, who were lifelong companions and friends.

Bob attended Boston College High School and later Boston College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature, graduating cum laude. After college, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army and attended the Officer Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He went on to serve as aide-de-camp to the Commanding General of the 9th Infantry Division.

Following his honorable discharge, Bob began a 35-year career with Southern New England Telephone (SNET).

Starting at the very bottom, he worked steadily and faithfully, earning the respect of colleagues along the way. He retired in 1988 as Assistant Vice President.

In 1958, Bob married Margaret “Peg” McGuire, the love of his life and his constant companion for 67 years. Together they made their home in Old Saybrook, where they raised their five children and built a life grounded in faith, service, and family. Bob placed a high value on education and gave this extraordinary gift to his children. He believed deeply in the power of learning to open doors, shape character, and foster independence. Education was not just an achievement to Bob, but a foundation for a meaningful and purposeful life. He was a voracious reader and lifelong seeker of knowledge.

Bob was a wonderful dancer, and the family holds many fond memories of him and Peg rolling up the rug and dancing a spirited jitterbug. He delighted in teaching his daughters those same steps.

Self-taught on the guitar, Bob loved to sing, sharing hymns and ballads,

and, on occasion, a bawdy ditty or two.

His grandchildren were his pride and joy. The memories they shared are too numerous to mention; visits to DQ, rides in the convertible, and endless beach days that will live with them forever.

Many in Old Saybrook will remember Bob running the town’s streets and roads. A committed runner, he logged as many as 60 miles a week at his peak and competed in numerous road races, always striving to better his personal best. Rain or shine, he became a familiar and friendly face, offering a wave or smile to passersby.

A deeply devoted Catholic, Bob was a daily communicant from his teenage years and a faithful member of St. John’s Roman Catholic Church for seven decades. He lived his faith quietly and generously. Over the years, he served the parish in many ways, including as a CCD teacher and a member of the Pastor’s Advisory Board.

In 1993, Bob helped organize Shoreline Soup Kitchens, an ecumenical ministry dedicated to feeding those in need.

As chair of the board for five years, he worked alongside clergy, lay leaders, and volunteers to expand meal sites and food pantries throughout the shoreline community.

Bob was predeceased by his parents; his sister Patty; and his beloved son, Robert Jr. “Bobby.” He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret “Peg” Little; his children, Meg Little, Mary LittleFinnegan and her husband, Mark Finnegan, Dan Little, and Kateri Little and her husband, Neal Keye. He also leaves six treasured grandchildren: Sean and his wife, Kate; Mairin and her husband, Joseph; Conor and his partner, Sarah; Micaela; and Liam; Evan with his mother, Lori Grimmer; four great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of dear nieces, most especially Gail Egan, nephews, and cousins, whose lives he touched in countless ways.

The Irish have a proverb, “It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.” It reminds us that we would not have been able to care for Bob without the support, guidance, and compassion of those who surrounded us. The family would like to thank the nurses and See page 9

As your hometown paper, the Harbor News welcomes reader contributions and questions. If it’s important to you, we want to know about it. Here are the best ways to bring matters to our attention.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR The Harbor News encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on local issues.

Writers may submit letters as often as every two weeks. Letters must include the writer’s full name, street address, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted under pseudonyms, anonymously, or through third parties will be declined. Letters must be written by the submitter. No more than four signees are permitted per letter.

Letters must be 300 words or fewer and are subject to editing for clarity, style, and adherence to policy. Letter writers may be asked to supply sources to corroborate information presented as fact in letters.

Civility is required. Letters with personal attacks, unsubstantiated allegations, or inflammatory language will be declined.

For letters endorsing a political candidate, Shore Publishing will accept one endorsement per writer per candidate. Letters with negative content are not accepted for the two issues preceding elections to allow for candidate rebuttal.

Letters must be received and verbally confirmed by 5 p.m. Thursday, seven days prior to publication. Confirmation does not guarantee publication. Publication is subject to approval by the editor.

Letter writers who knowingly violate this policy three times will be banned from submitting future letters to the editor.

Letters may be submitted at www.zip06.com or email to shoreletters@shorepublishing.com.

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS AND CALENDAR To have your item considered for print, please email news@shorepublishing.com. Announcements and calendar items are printed as space allows. Deadline for submissions is Tuesday at noon, nine days before publication.

These are just a few ways to get involved in your newspaper. If you have an idea for a story, a question about news deadlines, or any other news-related inquiry, email news@shorepublishing.com or call the News Department at 203-245-1877, ext. 0.

OBITUARIES The Harbor News publishes paid obituary notices in print and at Zip06.com.

Obituaries should be sent to obits@theday.com. The deadline for all obituaries is Wednesday at 4 p.m., eight days prior to publication date. Obituaries will also be posted as quickly as possible at Zip06.com.

ADVERTISING To speak with someone about newspaper and online advertising, contact the Sales Department at advertising@shorepublishing.com or 203-245-1877. All advertising is subject to the approval of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing shall have the right to revise, reject or cancel, in whole or in part, any advertisement at any time for any or no reason.

LEGAL NOTICES To place a legal notice, email legal@theday.com or call 860-701-4410.

CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad in the Classifieds section or in the Classifieds Service Directory, call 860-701-4200 and/or email classifiedads@theday.com.

CIRCULATION To speak with someone about receiving or canceling the paper, please call 203-245-1877, ext. 6 or email shorecirculation@shorepublishing.com.

Harbor News 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com 203-245-1877 Fax 203-245-9773

SPONSORED CONTENT: Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

While our press schedule often does not allow us to publish death notices in time to announce memorial services, readers can find obituaries posted to the Harbor News website, www. zip06.com, five days a week as they arrive.

Stories and features denoted with the Shore Publishing “Sponsored” icon are sponsored by advertisers. Sponsored content is content created or commissioned by advertisers in collaboration with Shore Publishing’s marketing team. As with all advertising, sponsored content does not necessarily reflect the views of Shore Publishing. Shore Publishing will ensure the treatment and design of Advertising and Sponsored Content is clearly differentiated from its editorial content.

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JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Year In Review: Clinton Focused on Developments and Elections sion into affordable housing and senior programming space.

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

The year 2025 brought a little bit of everything to Clinton. The year began with applications for new developments in town and ended with big turnout at the municipal election. Along the way there were smaller moments both good and bad. The highlights of the year are below:

b

July

b

January In order to give young people from across the country a chance to experience life in Clinton, the American Exchange Project begins looking for Clinton families that would host a visiting high school graduate for a week in July. Clinton students are also asked to apply for a chance to spend a week in another community elsewhere in the United States.

The Planning and Zoning Commission receives an application for a zoning text amendment that, if approved, would allow for healthcare clinics in the Interchange Development Zone. The application follows the announcement the previous month that Yale was interested in opening an urgent care clinic at the Shops at Indian River Landing. b

February At a meeting on Feb. 5, the Town Council unanimously votes to apply for a grant to fund the construction of a new storage building at the Public Works Department property on Nod Road.

A new partnership between Clinton Public Schools, the Clinton Human Services Department, and the Henry Carter Hull Library begins facilitating a community book chat series exploring ways to combat youth depression and anxiety.

The Coastal Resiliency Committee of Clinton, Westbrook, and Old Saybrook holds presentations in all three towns from Feb. 24 to Feb. 26 to share the results of a regional Coastal Resiliency Plan, which recommends projects to combat rising sea levels in the area.

The PZC approves the text amendment change allowing clinics in the Industrial Development Zone.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

The Harlem Wizards entertained a packed gymnasium at The Morgan School on Jan. 9, facing a team of educators and town officials in a fundraising basketball game. Founded in 1962, the Wizards combine basketball and comedy, having performed across nearly all 50 states and internationally, drawing Crowes of up to 10,000 and including 10 tours in China since 2000. b

March At a meeting on March 5, the Town Council votes to adopt a policy prohibiting groups that rent the town hall for functions to allow BYOB at the events.

The Morgan School presents “Mama Mia!” at the auditorium at the Morgan School on Friday, March 21, and Saturday, March 22 to rave reviews. b

April At the April 2 Town Council meeting, Town Manager Michelle Benivegna announces that due to cuts in the recently approved federal budget that Clinton will not receive $500,000 in congressionally directed spending that had been earmarked in 2024 for the design of a downtown wastewater system. In a split vote, the council first decides not to resubmit a new application for funding in 2026.

However, after a workshop with members from the Water Polluting Control Commission, the council unanimously agrees to resubmit an application for the

wastewater funding in 2026 at a special meeting on April 24.

A public hearing over the proposed town and education budgets is sparsely attended.

The 4th annual spring egg hunt at the Clinton Town is organized by resident Emily Roy on April 19. b

May The State Election Enforcement Commission resolves a 2024 complaint of alleged election interference by entering into a consent agreement with Town Council member Brian Roccapriore (D). The commission finds he violated a state election law concerning who has access to polling places at 2024 election.

At a referendum on May 14, Clinton voters overwhelmingly pass the town and education budgets, as well as a $1.6 million appropriation for a new fire truck.

The total budget for fiscal year 2025–26 is $66,421,445, a $1,997,402 or 3.10% increase from last year.

Voters approved a town budget of $23,554,949 (a $206,182 or

0.87% reduction) and a Board of Education budget of $42,866,496 (a $2,203,584 or 5.42% increase).

The mill rate is set at 31.14. b

June At a Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on June 9, the commission unanimously approves two separate applications. One is a zoning regulation amendment prohibiting the establishment of new floating zones in town. The second allows for an urgent care clinic, a Panera Bread with a drive-up window, and a Chase Bank to open at the former Morgan School site.

The Morgan School class of 2025 tosses their caps sky-high after receiving their diplomas at graduation on June 10.

The fourth annual Clinton Arts Festival returns June 21.

The town officially clears a key hurdle in the redevelopment of the former Abraham Pierson School. A court ruling on June 25 removes a deed restriction that had limited the property’s use for more than 70 years, paving the way for the site’s planned conver-

Residents are shocked after the Clinton Chamber of Commerce announces it will be suspending operations until further notice following the unexpected resignation of Executive Director Paul Orsini. With the chamber closed, the organization of events like the SummerFest and summer concert series is assumed by the town.

At its July 2 meeting, the Clinton Town Council unanimously votes to designate proposed upgrades to the Henry Carter Hull Library as an official town project — a move that clears the way for fundraising and grant applications ahead of a planned eventual referendum.

A community fundraiser is set for Saturday, July 12, to support the Pagan family, who lost their home and possessions in a devastating house fire the previous month.

Henry on Main, the new auxiliary library bookstore at 10 West Main Street, holds its grand opening on July 15. Café Nola, a separate eatery connected to the rear of the building, opens the same day.

Clinton is awarded more than $100,000 in state grant funding to purchase more than 23 acres of open space off Route 81 for use as recreational trails and preservation land.

The fourth International Food and Beer Festival is held behind Clinton’s Town Hall.

Construction on the bridge over the Hammock River begins, closing the span to both vehicles and pedestrians for the next 18 months to the ire of some residents. A detour is available via Shore Road.

The town’s political parties announce their slates for the November election. The slates are highlighted by the nominations of Republicans Mike Shove and Jerry Dunn as well as Democrats Carrie Allen and Chris Passante in the race for the three open seats on the council. b

See page 7

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

7

Year In Review: Clinton Focused on Developments and Elections Continued from page 6

August The Clinton Police Department confirms there is an active criminal investigation into the Clinton Chamber of Commerce following the chamber’s unexpected closure. The subject and nature of the investigation are not disclosed.

The Town Council mulls a proposal for automated traffic enforcement cameras in Clinton. A public hearing is scheduled for October.

Clinton says goodbye to summer with the Clinton SummerFest firework show. b

September Benivegna announces Clinton has been awarded more than $500,000 in state grant funding for the construction of a new storage building at the Public Works Department property on Nod Road. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026.

After an unprecedented increase in ridership of 277% over the prior year, town officials announce their intention to find funding sources to bring back the trolley in 2026.

The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously votes to recommend dismantling the skatepark at the Peters Complex. The move will require Town Council approval, and the commission plans on presenting to the council eventually.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Graduates march off the field lined by Morgan faculty at the end of The Morgan School's commencement exercises for the Class of 2025 on June 10. The graduation ceremony, held at the school, marked a milestone in their educational journey.

b

October On Oct. 1, the Town Council postpones a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to allow automated red-light and speed cameras in Clinton after members objected to how the resulting ticket revenue would be managed. The council says the proposed ordinance will be revised and brought back to a public hearing in the future.

At a meeting on Oct. 15, the Town Council unanimously agrees to give Benivegna a 3.75% raise after she receives a positive performance evaluation.

The SEEC votes to open an investigation into an alleged campaign violation by local Democrats in Clinton. The complaint is made by Robert Corson, the chairman of the Clinton Republican Town Committee.

The complaint centers around Michael Rossi serving as the treasurer for the Democratic Town Committee for several weeks while he was also candidate in the 2025 municipal election.

Carrie Allen and Chris Passante to the Town Council along with Republican Jeremiah Dunn.

Construction begins on a new fish ladder in the Big Y parking lot, which the state hopes will lead to environmental benefits in the Indian River.

The Clinton Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors announces the organization will vacate its headquarters building at 50 E. Main St. as the board mulls the organization’s future.

Hank Teskey is unanimously voted new chairman of the Clinton Town Council at a meeting on Nov. 19. b

December

Christmas in Clinton returns to downtown Clinton.

After 23 years, Town Clerk Sharon Uricchio retires on Dec. 2. b November The SEEC eventually enters into a conClinton Democrats have a huge night sent order with Rossi to resolve the earlier top to bottom in Clinton. Most notably, election complaint. voters overwhelmingly reelect Democrats

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

An actor portraying Benjamin Franklin, right, recounts his visit to the area during the Haunted Spirits of Clinton Stroll on Oct. 17. Franklin traveled through what was then Killingworth, placing mile markers along the route north to Boston as Postmaster General and visiting notable resident Dr. Jared Eliot. Actors from Kidz Konnection Shoreline Theater Academy portrayed haunted figures from Clinton's past during the walking tour, which ran Oct. 16-18. Proceeds benefited the ongoing restoration of the historic Academy building, home to Kidz Konnection, and the Adam Stanton House & General Store Museum.

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JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Need Help with Challenging Children?

Struggling to understand your child's behavior? National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Shoreline and Guilford Youth and Family Services are offering free Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) classes. CPS is a non-punitive approach to helping adults care for challenging children of all ages, grounded in 50 years of neuroscientific research. The class runs for six weeks, starting Thursday, Jan. 8, through Thursday, Feb. 12. Sessions will take place on Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. via Zoom. Registration is required. To register, email DivinnaSchmitt@gmail.com. For more information, text Divinna Schmitt at 860-876-0236 or visit ThinkKids.org.

ATTENTION WESTBROOK REPUBLICANS – NOTICE OF CAUCUS Notice is hereby given, that there will be a caucus of Registered Republicans in the Town of Westbrook, on Wednesday January 7th 2025, in the Mulvey Municipal Building Multi-Purpose Room, at 6:30 PM, for the purpose of endorsing a Republican slate of candidates for The Westbrook Republican Town Committee.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING: Town of Westbrook Plan of Conservation and Development 2026-2036 Notice is hereby given that on January 12, 2026; the Town of Westbrook Planning Commission will hold a public hearing for the purposes of reviewing and possibly acting on the proposed Plan of Conservation and Development for 2026-2036 at 7:00pm in the Multimedia Room of Mulvey Municipal Center (Town Hall), at 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT 06498.

At this hearing, persons may appear in person to be heard or submit written comments to be read into the record. This meeting will be available via zoom and accessible via the link below: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83096803905?pwd=4NcA5Jjmh16yCiW7RUqpPNupQEi2Ri.1 Meeting ID: 830 9680 3905 Passcode: 935893 Copies of the proposed plan are available in; the Land Use Office, Town Clerks’ Office, and on the Town Website (www.WestbrookCT.us).

Contact the Westbrook Land Use Office with any questions regarding this matter at: (860)399-3091.

Dated December 10th, 2025 – Town of Westbrook

Home For The Holidays: New Year Means New Furbaby Story by Carol Andrecs

Our boy Fudgie was trapped on the shelter property, envying all the cats he saw inside who were safe and well fed.

Apparently abandoned, the poor boy was covered with engorged ticks when he was trapped, so he must have been outside for quite a while. Fudgie is a sleek and shiny all-black cat with a big personality. He is a complete lovebug who is playful and likes to be in the midst of all the action.

Although Fudgie likes to be cuddled, he is not thrilled being with so many other cats and would probably be happiest as your one and only. For an appointment to meet this sweet treat, stop by during our open house events or apply online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org. b

Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary.

Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. For more information, contact 860-669-1347 or volunteerinfo@forgotten felinesct.org.

Photo by Tracye Mueller

LEGAL NOTICE

To enrolled members of the Democratic Party of Old Saybrook, CT.

The second installment of the town tax on the list of October 1, 2024 and the motor vehicle supplemental list thereto is due and payable January 1, 2026. If not paid on or before February 2, 2026, the installment becomes delinquent and subject to interest at a rate of 18% per annum, 1 1/2% per month, dating back to the original due date. A minimum interest charge of $2.00 is applicable to each delinquent tax installment.

Pursuant to the Rules of the Democratic Party and State election laws, you are hereby notified that a caucus will be held on: January 12th at 6:30 pm at the Vicki Duffy Pavilion to endorse candidates for the Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee and to transact other business as may be proper to come before said caucus.

Payments will be received by the Tax Collector, Tax Office, Room 106, Andrews Memorial Town Hall through February 2, 2026, with no interest. Payments made on February 3, 2026, will be charged the applicable interest, dating back to the original due date of January 1, 2026. Two month’s interest will become due on February 3, 2026.

Dated at : Old Saybrook, CT Date: January 1, 2026

Payment may be made to the DROP BOX, by mail, or online.

Tax Office hours are: Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Thursday from 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. and Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M., except Holidays.

If you pay by mail, please include the payment stub for each bill you are paying. Mail postmarked on or before February 2, 2026 is to be considered an on time payment. If you would like a receipted bill, please send the entire bill along with a self-addressed stamped envelope to the Tax Office.

Online payments may be made at: www.pay-clintonct.com. Electronic check payments will be charged a $.95 processing fee. Credit card payments will be charged a 2.50% and debit cards will be 1.50% processing fee.

Online payments are processed the next business day.

Lisa R Bibbiani Tax Collector, CCMC Town of Clinton

Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee Chair: Deborah Shah

Notice of Democratic Caucus Town of Westbrook To enrolled members of the Democratic Party of the Town of Westbrook, Connecticut: Pursuant to the Rules of the Democratic Party and State election laws, you are hereby notified that a caucus will be held on Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Westbrook Public Library 61 Goodspeed Dr, Westbrook, CT to endorse candidates for the Democratic Town Committee and to transact other business as may be proper to come before said caucus.

Dated at Westbrook, Connecticut, this 6th day of January 2026.

Democratic Town Committee of Westbrook

9

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026 Letters Continued from page 4

NOTICE OF CLINTON DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS

Thank You For Another Successful Wreaths Across America!

The Old Saybrook Wreaths Across America Committee extends our sincere thanks to the more than 100-plus volunteers who made Old Saybrook’s fourth annual National Wreaths Across America Day on Saturday, December 13th an overwhelming success. Through the extreme generosity of our wreath sponsors, we reached our goal of placing 800 remembrance wreaths on all our veterans’ graves in Old Saybrook.

We want to thank members of the Old Saybrook Fire Department for their time and assistance with this year’s event, including Don Lucas, Tony Cronin, Geoff Sinibaldo, and Max Sabrin. A special thanks to OSFD Firefighter Todd Steward of Stewards Ace Hardware in Clinton for the exclusive use of his box truck to deliver wreaths to all the town’s cemeteries.

Thank you, as well, to the dedicated volunteers who laid wreaths during the

event’s noontime ceremony on the Town Green: U.S. Army Veteran Dan Sparaco; OSFD Veteran and U.S. Navy Veteran Richard Mulvihill Sr.; U.S. Coast Guard and Vietnam Veteran Steve Zawisa; U.S. Air Force Veteran and Old Saybrook VFW Commander Robert Arcone; U.S. Navy Veteran Andy Morrison; U.S. Army Veteran Ken McCarthy Sr., and Erin Colwell, representing her husband U.S. Merchant Marine and OSFD Member Matt Colwell.

Thanks to John Harper of WLIS/WMRD and USMC Veteran and Chief Meteorologist Gil Simmons of NEWS8/WTNH for publicity assistance and thanks to Larry Bonin and Dave Colquhoun of Old Saybrook for their valuable assistance.

Max Sabrin, Location Coordinator, Wreaths Across America Old Saybrook

To enrolled members of the Democratic Party of the Town of Clinton, Connecticut Pursuant to the Rules of the Democratic Party and State election laws, you are hereby notified that a caucus will be held on: January 8, 2026 at 6:30PM at Rose Room, Clinton Town Hall to endorse candidates for Clinton DTC offices: Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary and other offices that may emerge at Caucus, and to transact other business as may be proper to come before said Caucus.

Dated at : Clinton, CT Date: December 25, 2025 Clinton Democratic Town Committee Paul Gebauer, Chair

LEGAL NOTICE OF DECISION WESTBROOK ZONING COMMISSION Notice is hereby given that the Westbrook Zoning Commission took the following actions at their Regular Meeting on Monday, December 22, 2025;

1. (Approved) ZC2025-017 – COASTAL AREA MANAGEMENT SITE PLAN - 1021 Old Clinton Road – Construction of New Two-Car Garage and ADU Applicant: J. Gedney

Applications are available for review at the Town of Westbrook Land Use Office during business hours and are accessible from the documents link posted in the meeting agenda.

Dated: 12/23/2025 Harry Ruppenicker, Jr. – Zoning Commission Chairman

Town of Clinton Planning & Zoning Commission 54 East Main Street Clinton, CT 06413 Legal Notice of Public Hearing Town of Clinton in the Town Hall Green Room

Obituaries Continued from page 5 Obituary

The Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following:

Robert Pierce Little aides of Middlesex Care at Home and Middlesex Hospice, most especially our Allison, Michelle, Lara, and, our angel Dulsy.

Bob will be remembered for his deep personal faith, his steadfast devotion to family, his generosity of spirit, and his lifelong commitment to serving others.

The family respectfully requests no flowers. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital would be a

meaningful way to honor both Bob and Bobby’s memory.

Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, at Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at St John Roman Catholic Church, Old Saybrook. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Westbrook.

An Introduction to Shore’s New Sports Editor Continued from page 2 sports. He knows the turf, and he’s going to be out there in the stands and locker rooms compiling information in a firsthand way. Whatever he can’t cover, he will get in the paper thanks to the dedication of coaches, a few freelance writers and help from the public who have an interest in

giving students credit for all their hard work.

Please welcome him to your town when you see him out and about, and help provide him the information he needs to tell a complete, interesting and accurate.

Lee Howard is Shore Publishing’s acting managing editor.

PZC-25-24: Map Amendment for Zone change pursuant to Section 4.20.2 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 109 West Main Street, Map 33, Block 10, Lot 25, Zone B-4 and R-20. Applicant: Michael P. Harkin, Harkin Engineering, LLC. At said Hearing, all persons will have the right to be heard. The application(s) and correspondence are available for public inspection on the Town’s website.

Anyone requiring special accommodation to participate in the public meeting should contact the Land Use Office at 860-669-6133. Michael Rossi, Chairman, Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission.

BOROUGH OF FENWICK HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING – JANUARY 10, 2026 – 9:00 A.M. 4 NIBANG AVENUE and VIA ZOOM Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85905853581?pwd=XxgiaabZqn1bYbiEUYz7sgL2ey4jcX.1 Dial by your location: 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 859 0585 3581 Passcode: 659796 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Borough of Fenwick Historic District Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Saturday, January 10, 2026, 9:00 a.m. at 4 Nibang Avenue, Old Saybrook, CT to hear the following: 1.

2.

3.

4.

102b Sequassen Avenue, map 11, lot 18-1. Owners: M. Brechter & S. Heinemann, Applicant: S. Foulke, Point One Architects. Application HDC25-018 for garage addition.

Various Locations, map 10, lot 1 and map 11, lot 26. Owner: Borough of Fenwick; Applicant: Lynde Point Land Trust. Application HDC25-019 to install 8 tree swallow houses on poles.

23 Pettipaug Avenue, map 10, lot 23-1. Owners and Applicants: Steven & Mary Sigmon, Trustees. Application HDC25-020 for new entry stair railing.

43 Pettipaug Avenue, map 5, lot 118. Owners and Applicants: Nancy Marikar & William K Walton, trustees. Application HDC25-021to replace deck railing to code.

At this hearing all interested parties may appear and be heard, and written testimony received. The applications may be viewed in the Borough Office at 580 Maple Avenue during normal office hours.

Dated at Borough of Fenwick, Connecticut this 22nd day of December, 2025.

Pamela Christensen, Chair, Historic District Commission

10

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Year In Review: Saybrook Solved Police Issues, Faced Others

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

The year 2025 was anything but boring in Old Saybrook. While concerns over the police department dominated the early part of calendar, the year also brought moments of joy, controversy, and hope.

The highlights from the year are below. b

January Residents are shocked and angry after the results of the year-long study by the Police Executive Research Forum on Jan. 8. The report concludes that a poor work environment is the root of the department’s staffing problems, not the rate of pay or benefits, as had been proposed by Police Chief Michael Spera. The report recommends 31 steps the town, department, and police commission can take the rectify the issues contained in the report.

In the wake of the release of the PERF report, the Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee releases a statement on Jan. 14 urging Spera to resign. The Board of Selectmen and Police Commission both agree to hire attorneys to advise them on how to navigate suggestions from the report.

The union representing the OSPD releases a statement on Jan.27 disputing the findings of the PERF report.

While not directly related to the PERF report, on Jan. 13 the police commission votes to deny a proposed a raise in Spera’s salary for the next fiscal year due to his refusal to agree to a mechanism for a contractually obligated annual evaluation. b

February On Feb. 21, the state Board of Labor Relations votes to dismiss a complaint that was filed by the dispatchers’ union in February 2024. The complaint alleged that the Town of Old Saybrook had violated the Municipal Employee Relations Act by hiring two dispatchers to work a security detail at a crime scene at a private business.

After several meetings during which the commission met in executive session to discuss the PERF report recommendations, the commission begins to publicly tackle specific items at a Feb. 24 meeting.

The most notable action taken by the commission at the meeting is a vote to ask the town attorney to craft a new bylaw concerning how complaints of alleged wrongdoing by the chief are handled.

The Coastal Resiliency Committee of Clinton, Westbrook, and Old Saybrook holds presentations in all three towns from Feb. 24 to Feb. 26 to share the results of a regional Coastal Resiliency Plan, which recommends projects to combat rising sea levels in the area.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Abby Colella, yellow hat, dances with friend Alissa Soup while the band Sugar plays on the main stage during the 3rd Annual Celebrate Saybrook Street Party, which was held on Sunday, June 22. The event featured live music, food, local craft beer, vendors and family entertainment, and was sponsored by FTD.

ment and pension plan agreement that At a meeting on April 10, Lieutenant was negotiated between Spera and the Ryan Walsh is named acting chief.

The 28th annual Old Saybrook Chili town. Per the agreement, starting Oct. 1, On April 11, Spera has his last day as Fest is held on March 1.

2025, Spera will draw an annual pension chief.

At a public hearing on March 11, Old where Spera will be credited with 35 years On April 16, Old Saybrook announces a Saybrook residents receive a presentation of service to the town instead of 29. proposed deal in which the town would on the current status of the proposed town b acquire the former Dock and Dine Restaubudget. A handful of speakers chime in April rant property at Saybrook Point in with their thoughts.

Town leaders are ecstatic when credit exchange for the Vicky Duffy Pavilion.

In a press release on March 25, Old rating agency Moody’s increases the town’s Under the proposal, the town would turn Saybrook Chief of Police Michael Spera credit rating to Aa1 from Aa2. The effect is the former restaurant property into a park announces he will be retiring from his to reduce the town costs for borrowing while the pavilion would be turned into a position. Spera’s last day on the job will be money. restaurant. in April but his retirement will be effective At a special meeting on April 7, the At a public hearing later in the month, in September. He had been chief for 16 Police Commission votes to name itself residents express mixed opinions on the years. and First Selectman Carl Fortuna as the At a special BOS meeting on March 27, search committee tasked with finding a See page 11 the board unanimously ratifies a retire- new police chief. b

March

11

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Year In Review: Saybrook Solved Police Issues, Faced Others Continued from page 10 proposed deal. Several speakers at the meeting voice concerns about losing the pavilion, which is frequently used for civic gatherings and community events, while others question if the town is getting a fair deal in the swap. The move is expected to go to a referendum later in the year. b

May

August The police commission announces it has narrowed the search for the next police chief down to a final five candidates, who will undergo a series of interviews and assessments. b

September Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services celebrate the 50th anniversary of its founding.

The Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services Department and the Lymes’ Youth Service Bureau join forces to launch a suicide prevention campaign with new signs placed on the Baldwin Bridge.

“SOBO,” a new documentary following Old Saybrook resident Matt Lyons on his two-year journey thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, premieres.

Old Saybrook officially hires William Onofrio to be the town’s next police chief.

A report from The Estuary that uncertainty at the state and federal levels could lead to potential cuts to its Meals on Wheels program alarms residents.

Old Saybrook voters overwhelmingly approve the town’s proposed $52,843,415 budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year in a May 13 referendum. The BOE budget totals $30,847,438, while the town’s portion is $21,995,977. Combined, the budget represents a 2.72% increase — or $1,403,369 — over the previous year. b After originally scheduling a referenOctober dum for June 18 on the proposed pavilion The 61st annual Old Saybrook Chamswap, the BOS instead votes to table to ber of Commerce Arts and Crafts Festival referendum until more sticking points over Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News returns to the Town Green the potential lease can be ironed out. While Onofrio is sworn in as police chief on the board originally hopes to postpone the Sydney Webb and Brooke Webb await their turn to be called during Old Saybrook High Oct. 18. referendum only a month or so, the negoti- School’s Class of 2025 commencement on June 16 at the high school. Afterward, as tradi- b November ations remain ongoing by the end of the tion, the graduates held a celebration parade through the town with a police escort. year.

Despite the BOS running unopposed, b Old Saybrook Democrats celebrate a big June night after voters overwhelmingly cast A public forum is held June 4 for resiballots mostly for the Democratic candidents to share with Public Safety Consuldates down ballot. According to state tants LLC and the town what qualities statistics 4,171 residents cast a vote, a they are looking for in the next police chief. turnout of about 46.9%, a number town The Old Saybrook High School Class of officials say is likely a record in town for a 2025 celebrates their graduation on June municipal election.

16 The results of a townwide tree inventory At a meeting on June 23, the Old Sayare published online so residents know the brook Police Commission votes to approve benefits and best care practices for the a bylaw amendment allowing complaints town’s trees. against the chief of police to be referred to b December an outside agency for investigation.

Chamber of Commerce Executive DirecThe fifth annual Old Saybrook Starlight tor Judy Sullivan retires, and Andrew festival returns Dec. 6.

Surprise takes over the role on June 27 The Acton Public Library announces a The third Annual Celebrate Saybrook last fundraising push that aims to raise Street Party is held and hailed as a rousmoney for planned renovations to the ing success. building. b On Dec. 7 a new light is turned on at the July site of a boat crash on a breakwater off the Old Saybrook’s political parties Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News coast of Old Saybrook that killed three announce their respective slates for the people over Labor Day weekend of 2024.

November election. Leading the slate once Estuary employee Wendy Kovar dances with her husband David Kovar to Trevor Davis' Proponents hope the new light will again is Fortuna, who is running unop- Dixieland Jazz Affair band during The Estuary's Delivering Hope: A Party with Purpose on increase maritime safety in the area and Sept. 6 in Old Saybrook. The fundraising event featured dinner, drinks, dancing and a silent posed for another term. serve as a memorial to those who lost their auction with proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels. b lives in the crash.

12

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • SPORTS

Year in Review: Westbrook Faced Roof Issues, Court Rulings Continued from page 1 During a budget workshop it is noted that the school roofs are in need of repair, an observation that will be revisited later in the year. b

March At a meeting on March 12, the Board of Selectmen unanimously votes to extend Hog Wild’s lease to operate the beach concession stand through the 2029 season and to raise the rent from $3,900 a season to $4,000 a year. The BOS also votes to extend the season for the stand from April 1 to Nov. 1, a compromise with the owner who was seeking a year-round lease.

At the same meeting, the BOS votes to allocate $595 for Social Services Coordinator Veronica Aleman to complete instructor certification in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), a nationally recognized suicide prevention program. Aleman tells the board she hopes to use the certification to train a range of community members — including town employees, residents, and students — in recognizing signs of suicidal ideation and learning how to respond appropriately. b

April At the April 8 BOS meeting, First Selectman John Hall announces staff from the Land Use Department and members of various land use boards and commissions have expressed interest in bringing Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News in a public relations professional or firm to Westbrook High School's Class of 2025 walked the halls of Daisy Ingraham Elementary on June 12, greeted by current elementary school manage the anticipated flood of questions students and teachers, retracing the steps of their very first school days just two days before graduation. and information requests surrounding the redevelopment. The BOS eventually agrees to look into the idea and develops mismanagement by the WAA were made ers, LLC had refiled its application for a on graduation day. an RFP seeking interested firms. public. The revelations led to the resigna- comprehensive wastewater permit with The results of a long-awaited indepenThe BOS unanimously approves a tion of the former WAA chief, and the town the Connecticut Department of Energy dent investigation by Sansiveri, Kimball & request from the school system to bring in had to appropriate up to $238,000 to con- and Environmental Protection. If the Co., LLP into the WAA is released. The a substance abuse counselor at the high duct a forensic audit of the WAA as well as application is approved, it will allow plans findings in the report details multiple insschool for five hours per week beginning in to pay off an outstanding mortgage with for a proposed comprehensive redevelop- tances of financial misconduct as well as the fall of 2025 at the same meeting.

KeyBank on the WAA headquarters prop- ment of the Westbrook outlets property to neglect of the WAA’s bylaws — failures A public hearing over the proposed bud- erty at 1316 Boston Post Road. move one step closer to being a reality. that could have prevented the alleged misget is held but lightly attended. b The Town of Westbrook files a second deeds from continuing as long as they did.

On April 22, Westbrook Town Attorney May lawsuit against the WAA, this time seek- In response, the WAA announces that for Tim Herbst issues a press release explainOn May 12 Westbrook voters give ing repayment for a defaulted mortgage the first time in 15 years a new board of ing that the town is moving forward with a unanimous support to the proposed the town paid off last year. The two sides directors has taken over leadership and lawsuit seeking to evict the Westbrook $35,344,014 total budget for the 2025–’26 are due in court in 2026. asks for a chance to prove to the public Ambulance Association from its headquar- fiscal year. The newly approved budget In response to the observation made that the new board will be different. ters building. The lawsuit claims the WAA represents an increase of $1,237,904, or during the budget season, on May 22, the At a special meeting on June 17, the violated the terms of its lease with the 3.63%, over last year’s spending. Following BOS unanimously appoints five members Westbrook Board of Education votes town by failing to pay its mortgage and the vote, a special meeting is held at which to the Westbrook Schools Roof Committee unanimously to combine the leadership of ceased to exist in its current form when it the Board of Finance sets the mill rate at to assess the long-term needs of school Westbrook Middle School and Westbrook lost its nonprofit status with the IRS. The 22.50, a 3.7% increase over the previous roofs. The committee is expected to com- High School, appointing one principal and WAA’s attorney reaches out to The Harbor mill rate. plete a report on the condition of the school one assistant principal to oversee both News to dispute some of Herbst’s claims, Voters also unanimously support the roofs by early fall. schools. The model will operate as a twoand says legal precedents show that the proposed five-year capital plan, which allo- b year pilot, during which the district will June WAA did not cease to exist in its present cates $2,581,550 in projects for year one. evaluate its effectiveness. form.

At a BOS meeting on May 13 Hall The Westbrook High School seniors celA committee tasked with studying The litigation dates back to late 2024 informs the board that Hartford-based ebrate one last time together as they when allegations of longstanding financial development company Lexington Partn- receive their diplomas and toss their caps See page 13

13

SPORTS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Year in Review: Westbrook Faced Roof Issues, Court Rulings with the entire BOS running unopposed, but Democrats win both of the contested races in town (Library Board of Trustees and the Board of Education) amid unusually high turnout (2,181 voters – around 44.5%, according to state statistics).

A town wide Veterans Day celebration is held on the Town Green.

Continued from page 12 potential sites for a community center in Westbrook recommends Wren Park as the preferred location in a report to the BOS on June 27. b

July Westbrook’s political parties announce their endorsed candidates for the upcoming municipal election. In Westbrook there isn’t much shakeup projected at the top of the ballot with the full Board of Selectmen — led by First Selectman John Hal l— running unopposed for a third term together.

b

December

The annual tree lighting and parade is held on Sunday, Dec. 7 The Connecticut Department of Transportation hosts a public information session in Westbrook on Dec. 11 over the planned replacement of the Route 153 b bridge over I-95 in 2028.

August Despite the need at the high school, the A public information session is held on roofing committee recommends to the Aug. 12 so members of the public can BOS that an overlay could extend the middigest the findings of the report recomdle school roof’s life by about 20 years and mending Wren Park as the best site in should be the first course of action the town for a community center. Cost estitown takes to address school roof issues. mates for building the center range from Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News The projected cost for the overlay is $1.2 $14,636,966 for the small option to million. The committee says it will work $22,795,000 for the medium and Recently retired science teacher Ken Savage is presented with a Guinness World Record with the town and BOE to budget for $26,721,072 for the large option. While for the longest career as a male science teacher at 54 years and 289 days. Savage, who future roofing projects at all three schools. taught entirely at Westbrook High School before retiring this past June, was surprised with somewhat receptive to the idea of building the recognition during a retirement ceremony in Essex on July 16. a center, attendees mainly express concern about the project’s projected cost. Hall says he anticipates at least two more commu- conditions of school roofs. The report finds nity hearings before eventually holding a the high school roof is in the most disretownwide referendum on the project in the pair, followed by the middle school roof and future. the elementary school roof. The BOS asks – MAKES A – At a separate BOS meeting on the same the committee to come up with recommenGREAT GIFT date, the selectmen get an earful from dations in response to the report. some members of the public concerned With renovations complete, Army’s about people smoking cigarettes and cann- Legacy Animal Rescue and Sanctuary abis on public beaches, as well as the holds an opening day event. amount of speeding down the shoreline b YOU WANT OMAHA STEAKS October neighborhoods. b The BOS announces it is open to allowSeptember ing the replica Turtle submarine currently The former Viking Motel property at in the Town Hall lobby to be displayed in 756 Boston Post Road is sold to a developer New York as part of the 250th anniversary with plans to transform the site into a of its first use. The request comes from Joe mixed-use project featuring housing and Allen, a professor at the SUNY Maritime retail space. If the project proceeds as College and a member of the New York Butcher’s Deluxe Package 61% OFF planned, the former motel that sits just state 250th Anniversary Committee. The 4 Butcher’s Cut Top Sirloins (5 oz.) past where Haywire Burger Bar is located BOS agrees that if Allen can find a willing 4 Air-Chilled Chicken Breasts (4 oz.) will become home to The Harbor House museum to display the Turtle and provide 4 Boneless Pork Chops (5 oz.)

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JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • SPORTS

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SPORTS • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Harbor News Valley Courier Thursday, January 1, 2026

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Brooke Ouellette (4), and Grace Vincent (44) celebrate their victory. Westbrook field hockey defeated Haddam-Killingworth 6-0 on Oct. 24 at Westbrook High School.

19

Sports

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Brooke Ouellette (4). Westbrook field hockey defeated Haddam-Killingworth 6-0 on Oct. 24 at Westbrook High School.

Sports Year In Review: Morgan Girls Soccer Earns First State Title; Westbrook Field Hockey Recognized

By Serenity J. Bishop Shore Sp;orts Editor

The Morgan School, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook High School each showcased their talent throughout the past year.

Several individual players, coaches and team’s altogether have been recognized at some point within the year for their success and accomplishments in 2025. With 2026 sports still upcoming, here is a look back at some of the top highlights across the three schools. b

Old Saybrook The Valley Regional-Old Saybrook coop crew team had lots of highs this past spring, and with a group so dedicated to becoming better rowers, many athletes took strides to help set a strong foundation for the program’s future.

The squad concluded its 2025 season on June 1 at the Emerson Regatta, where the athletes earned two first places, two second places, and two third-place wins.

The Valley Regional-Old Saybrook girls’

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Morgan's Benji Brown (9) attempts the tag on Guilford's Ralph Russo (13) during a steal of second base on April 19 at the Morgan School. Although they dropped this game 6-3 to Guilford, the team had a record of 5-2 after the first two weeks of the season.

co-op crew’s First Varsity 4 boat took first place with a time of 6:14.8 and brought home the Founder’s Trophy at the Connecticut Public Schools Rowing Association state championship regatta on May 18.

The co-op coed roster is comprised of seniors Jones (Valley Regional), Lake (Old Saybrook), Marmelstein (Valley Regional), and Tristan Smith (Valley Regional); juniors Whitney Bird (Old Saybrook), Sophie Bowers (Valley Regional), John Carter (Valley Regional), J.V. Contin (Old Saybrook), Adam DeCamp (Old Saybrook), Sasha Dziebel (Old Saybrook), Amelia Kostek (Valley Regional), Anna Shiekowitz (Valley Regional), Tristan Spallone (Valley Regional), and Emma Wakelee (Old Saybrook); sophomores Nathan Bernhardson (Old Saybrook), Matilda Boutilier (Valley Regional), Ella Collina (Valley Regional), Nye, Webber, Wright; and freshmen Jacob Allard (Valley Regional), Lyra Bruce (Valley See page 20

20

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Old Saybrook boys' basketball defeated Hale Ray 51-46 on Jan. 4 at Hale Ray High School.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Amara Holmes (24). Old Saybrook girls soccer was defeated 2-0 by Morgan in the CIAC Class S state championship game at Trinity Health Stadium on Nov. 15.

Sports Year In Review: Morgan Girls Soccer Earns First State Title; Westbrook Field Hockey Recognized Continued from page 19 Regional), Elijah Carter (Valley Regional), Gardner, Josephine Porter (Valley Regional), Oliver Smith (Valley Regional), and Phoebe Spallone (Valley Regional). b

The Morgan School The Morgan Huskies achieved great success with their boys’ and girls’ soccer teams this fall.

The girls’ soccer team won the Class S State Championship against Old Saybrook. The victory earned the Morgan School girls’ soccer team’s first-ever Connecticut

Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) Class S state title.

After a dramatic loss in last year’s championship game to Coginchaug, this year’s team battled through injuryriddled games, to a dominant final playoff push. The Huskies found their way back to the state final, and this time they finished the job.

The team finished with a 10-6 regular season and received a first-round bye in the state tournament as the No. 10 seed. The Huskies then traveled to seventh-seeded St. Paul Catholic in the second round before advancing to the quarterfinals to upset No. 2 Valley Regional on the

road. The Huskies defeated Housatonic Regional to advance to the state championship.

The boys’s soccer team finished the regular season 103-3, earning the seventh seed in the Class S State Tournament. The boys’ team defeated No. 26 Coginchaug in the first round, No. 10 East Hampton in the second round, and No. 2 Shepaug Valley in the quarterfinals.

The Huskies fell just short of reaching the state title game after falling to Haddam Killingworth in the semifianls.

See page 21

21

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Lauren Abbott (20) is mobbed by teammates including Captain Whittney Treubig (14), Lyla Striby (6), and Mary O’Donnell (33) after Abbott’s winning goal against North Branford. Morgan defeated North Branford 1-0 in overtime on a goal by Lauren Abbott (20) on Sept. 19 at North Branford High School giving Morgan their third win on the season.

Sports Year In Review: Morgan Girls Soccer Earns First State Title; Westbrook Field Hockey Recognized Continued from page 20 b

Westbrook High School The Westbrook Field Hockey team receive national attention after an impressive season, as the team not only won the conference championship, but the coaches were also recognized for their career achievements.

Head coach Janet Dickey and assistant coach Emily Alger were named the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) Southern New England Coaching Staff of the Year. The award, presented by the NFHCA,

recognizes one outstanding high school coaching staff from each region nationwide for exceptional leadership, competitive excellence, postseason success, and overall impact on their program and community.

The coaches will be formally recognized at the 2026 NFHCA Annual Convention in Lake Mary, Florida, during the Coaches Appreciation and Awards Luncheon on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. The coaches were nominated by Westbrook Athletic Director Caitlin Eichler. Dickey has served as Westbrook High School’s head field hockey coach for 35 years, leading one of the most respected programs in the region.

Despite Westbrook being a small school of approximately 150 students and competing as a coop with Lyme–Old Lyme, Dickey has successfully united athletes of varying experience levels into a cohesive and competitive team culture known as the Wild Knights.

This past season, the team finished with a 13-1-2 record, captured the Shoreline Conference Championship, and entered the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) State Tournament poised for a strong run, ultimately falling in a tightly contested first-round game decided by a last-minute goal.

22

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The cast of Photosynthesis at the 2024 Goodspeed Festival of New Musicals

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The cast of Photosynthesis at the 2024 Goodspeed Festival of New Musicals

Goodspeed Announces 20th Annual Festival of New Musicals Press Release from the Goodspeed Musicals

Come in from the cold and check out what’s hot at the 20th Annual Goodspeed Festival of New Musicals from Friday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, Jan. 18. The muchanticipated three-day festival of brandnew works will light up the Goodspeed campus with a weekend filled with insider events, seminars, a cabaret, staged readings, and a special 20th Anniversary Festival Concert.

The Festival of New Musicals kicks off Jan. 16 at The Goodspeed with a staged reading of Miss Hysteria. Inspired by true events, Miss Hysteria follows the wrongly institutionalized Louise Gleizes, a young actress in 19th-century Paris, who strikes a bargain to perform symptoms of “hysteria” for freedom and discovers the power—and peril—of owning her own story. It features a book and lyrics by Laura Schein and Ben Zeadman with music by Zeadman.

The highlight on Saturday, Jan. 17, will be a staged reading of F Word, a heartwarming coming-of-age story about Tessa, a teenager on the brink of aging out of the foster care system, as she faces the future and finds family where she least expects it.

Music and lyrics are by Alyssa Payne with holders are invited to add-on tickets to the a book by Sara Matin.

Friday evening cabaret ($18 each) and The final day of the festival features 20th Anniversary Festival Concert ($30 Foolproof, a brassy, toe-tapping musical each). Package holders and those with sincomedy that reimagines The Three Stoo- gle tickets can add on the Saturday ges as three sisters, Mo, Mary, and Curly, evening pre-show dinner at the Gelston who land punches and punchlines in their House for $36 per person. Single-show effort to apprehend a notorious robber, tickets and festival packages are available claim the cash reward, and save their fam- through the Goodspeed box office at 860ily boutique. The book is by Megan 873-8668, open weekdays at 10 a.m. and Loughran and Sonya Hayden, lyrics by weekends at 11 a.m. Single-show tickets Loughran, and music by Hayden. Addi- can also be purchased online at tional festival events•including seminars, goodspeed.org. an exclusive cabaret (an informal gather“We are proud to mark the 20th ing showcasing new songs by new and anniversary of our Festival of New Musiestablished artists) and a special 20th cals. Over the past two decades, the festiAnniversary Festival Concert•will round val has launched more than 50 new musiout this exciting weekend. cals, including the Tony-winning sensation Single tickets for each reading are $30 Come From Away, Band Geeks! and The and $15 for students. Single tickets are Snow Goose, which will premiere on The $20 for the Friday evening cabaret and $35 Goodspeed stage next summer,” says for the 20th Anniversary Festival Concert. Goodspeed Artistic Director Donna Lynn Goodspeed’s festival gold package will offer Hilton. “I am humbled that the festival, patrons a weekend full of special events. which was a simple idea 20 years ago, has The $156 package includes admission to now become a major industry event showall three staged readings, several festival casing incredibly talented writers and seminars, the 20th Anniversary Festival their new musicals.”

Concert, and the meet-the-writers Q&A. “I can’t wait to experience my first festiThe festival silver package includes all val,” says Goodspeed Managing Director three staged readings for just $81. Package Vanessa Logan. “I’ve heard so many fabu-

lous stories about the weekend, the energy of the writers, performers, and the audience. New work is essential to the future of musical theatre, and Donna Lynn’s vision, paired with Goodspeed’s commitment to nurturing it, is one of the reasons I’m so proud to be here. I’m especially looking forward to meeting the Friends, an extraordinary group of donors who champion the Festival of New Musicals and our new works. I know people won’t want to miss out on being part of the creation of a new musical because there’s nothing quite like seeing a story come to life from the very beginning.”

The Goodspeed festival offers new and established artists the rare opportunity to thoroughly work on their projects with the help of Goodspeed’s renowned resources and within its artistic environment.

Preparations for the festival begin on Monday, Jan. 5, when the three teams of writers and composers arrive on the Goodspeed campus and dedicate their time to further writing and composing their musicals in development. They are joined by musical theatre students from The Hartt School and Western Connecticut State See Goodspeed page 20

23

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Goodspeed Announces 20th Annual Festival of New Musicals Festival Dinner 5:30 p.m. at Gelston House

Continued from page 22 University who take part in rehearsals and continued development of the material. The intensive retreat culminates with Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals, which showcases staged readings of the new musicals developed during the twoweek program.

The festival weekend culminates in a question-and-answer session with some of the writers and creative teams behind Miss Hysteria, F Word, and Foolproof.

The staged readings and schedule of special events for festival package holders follow: b

Friday, Jan. 16 Miss Hysteria 7:30 p.m. at The Goodspeed Book and lyrics by Laura Schein and Ben Zeadman Music by Ben Zeadman Festival Cabaret: Rona Siddiqui 10 p.m. at Gelston House

F Word 7:30 p.m. at The Goodspeed Music and lyrics by Alyssa Payne Book by Sara Matin 20th Anniversary Festival Concert 9:30 p.m. at The Goodspeed b

Sunday, Jan. 18 Foolproof 1 p.m. at The Goodspeed Book by Megan Loughran and Sonya Hayden Lyrics by Megan Loughran Music by Sonya Hayden Meet the Writers Q&A 3:30 p.m. at The Goodspeed Goodspeed Musicals is located at 6 Main Street, East Haddam. For more information, visit www.goodspeed.org.

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The cast of The Snow Goose at the 2024 Goodspeed Festival of New Musicals

b

Saturday, Jan. 17 Seminar Sessions 1 to 4:30 p.m. at Gelston House The seminars include the following (more will be announced at a later date): Not Throwing Away My Shot: Theatrical Photography 101: Goodspeed staff photographer Diane Sobolewski and Marketing Associate Director Katie Desjardins will pull back the curtain on how some of our most iconic production photos were captured.

Do You Hear the Writers Sing?: Join us as we do a mock share session with alumni of our writer residency program, the Johnny Mercer Writers Grove at Goodspeed. You’ll have the opportunity to hear songs from alumni of the Grove, guided by the Grove’s resident dramaturgs, Rose Oser and Blair Russell!

Money, Money, Money…In Goodspeed’s World: From foundations to corporate giving, Managing Director Vanessa Logan and Director of Development Frank Stilwagner take a deep dive into Goodspeed’s strategies to get dough and the tremendous ‘knead’ for it.

The Snow Goose Flies Again: Conclude your day of seminars by getting the inside scoop on The Snow Goose. You’ll hear about the show’s history from inception, Grove residency, festival presentation, New York workshop, and a full production on The Goodspeed stage next fall.

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The cast of The Snow Goose at the 2024 Goodspeed Festival of New Musicals

24

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Belle Vie Café Gallery Showcases Local Artist Press Release from Belle Vie Café Loft Gallery

The Belle Vie Café Loft Gallery is currently featuring the artwork of Patricia Shoemaker, a Shoreline Arts Trail artist whose paintings explore the relationship between place, light, and everyday life.

Harmony of Land and Life: Reflections from an Italian Journey showcases Shoemaker’s work, which is rooted in a deep fascination with place—how light, atmosphere, and human presence combine to form the quiet poetry of a landscape. In this exhibition, Shoemaker presents a series of oil paintings created during her time in Italy, where the rhythm of the countryside and the energy of its cities offered an endless source of inspiration.

The Fountain, oil, by Patricia Shoemaker “My figurative and landscape paintings grow from direct experience: walking through olive groves, studying the geometry of narrow streets, watching people weave their stories through piazzas. Each painting is an attempt to hold onto those fleeting moments when light transforms the ordinary into something resonant and meaningful. Ultimately, this body of work reflects what Italy offered me: a conversation between land, people, and light.”

The Belle Vie Café Loft Gallery, located at 20 Church Street, Guilford, is open every day from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The exhibit runs through Wednesday, Feb. 11.

For more information, visit the local art link at belleviecafe.com or the artist’s website at patriciashoemaker.com.

Photo by Patricia Shoemaker

Photo by Patricia Shoemaker

Contemplation by Patricia Shoemaker

b

About the Artist Patricia Shoemaker works in oil, pastel, and watercolor. She studied fine arts at Wells College, attended the Art Students League, and received her BFA from the University of Georgia.

She attended the Yale Brissago (Switzerland) Program, and Umbria II, oil, by Patricia Shoemaker received her MFA from the Yale School of Art.

Photo by Patricia Shoemaker

25

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Calendar for the Week of January 1, 2026

For more Life & Style stories, visit our website, www.zip06.com. To submit events for the calendar, email news@shorepublishing.com.

THURSDAY, JAN. 1 Annual Frosty 5K Road Race: Race day check-in and bib collection from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a 5K race, a kids fun run, and a 2M walk. All events begin at the Guilford Green. Kids fun run starts 10:30 a.m.; 5K race and 2M walk start 11 a.m. Post-race celebration at 11:45 a.m. Cost: 5K run and 2M walk, $35; kids fun run, $10 through race day. Proceeds benefit local community programs. Hosted by the Guilford Rotary Club. For info or tickets, visit guilfordrotaryclubct.com or runsignup.com/Race/CT/Guilford/GuilfordFrosty5K. Sixth Annual New Day Hike: 11 a.m. Chatfield Hollow State Park, meet at the toll booth. Hosted by the Friends of Chatfield Hollow State Park. Features a pine-cone birdfeeder activity for children at the Oak Lodge Museum led by naturalist Wray Williams. For info, call Cheryl Buckley at 860-391-1919.

First Friday Stroll: 5 to 8 p.m. Main Street, Chester.

Hosted by the merchants of Chester. Features a stroll on Main Street that showcases new art exhibitions at galleries, seasonal menus at restaurants, and shopping specials. Includes anecdotal tales behind the paintings at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St. For info, visit nilssonstudio.com.

FRIDAY, JAN. 2 Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features an afternoon film screening. Popcorn and soda provided.

Registration preferred. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Cupcake Celebration: 2:15 to 4 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, Community Room, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Children will frost and decorate cupcakes to mark the arrival of 2026. For ages 4 and older. Drop-ins welcome. No registration required. For info, call 860-399-6422.

SATURDAY, JAN. 3 Magic Wand Workshop: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a craft program for children ages 6 to 12 led by polymer clay artist Deb Jaffe.

Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

River Tales: Two sessions: 11 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m. Connecticut River Museum (CRM), 67 Main St., Essex. For children ages 4 and up and their caregivers.

Features a story, a craft activity, and more. Book: Little Fox in the Snow by Jonathan London. Tickets: $3 per learner, free for members. Museum admission is not included with the ticket purchase. For info or reservations (required), call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Curator Tour: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by Jessica Durdock Moreno, director of artistic planning at Long Wharf Theatre. The tour highlights the new exhibition, Invitation to Engage: 60 Years of Long Wharf Theatre & Beyond. Other tours are scheduled through Saturday, Feb. 7. For info, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 4 Weiss-Kaplan-Stumpf Trio Concert: 2 to 3:30 p.m.

James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a performance of violin, cello, and piano.

Free. Hosted by the Musical Arts Society of Branford. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

MONDAY, JAN. 5

help plan games, displays, programs, and collections.

Service credit available for active participation. Free and open to all. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Tinker and Take it Apart: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For ages 5 to 11. Bring safety goggles. Space and supplies are limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Creative Craft Night: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Offers drop-in crafting time with access to library supplies and equipment. Staff available for assistance. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Haiku Workshop : 6 to 7 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd. For teens and adults. Led by Madison Poet Laurate Ed Lent. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7 Candidly Chris: Composing the Photograph: 6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Photographer Peter Glass presents a program on photographic composition techniques. Registration required. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Auditions for Con Brio Choral Society: 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Grace Episcopal Church, 336 Main St., Old Saybrook.

Open to auditionees for all voice parts. Con Brio rehearses on Tuesdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. To book a time Tabletop RPG Game Night: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, slot, call Larry Hamre 860-575-1533. For info, visit con60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to brio.org/audition. all. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 6

Adult Movie Night: 6 to 8 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Bring snacks and a beverage (covered, nonalcoholic). For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Hammonasset Beach Walk: 1 p.m. Meet at the Gateway Eastern trail head parking lot adjacent to the entrance of the Hammonasset State Park, 1280 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a one-mile walk with members of Shoreline Village CT (SVCT) through Hammonasset Beach Park to Webster Point. For info or to register, contact 203-747-5939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org. For info, THURSDAY, JAN. 8 visit ShorelineVillageCT.org.

Peace Crane Folding: 1 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features an inaugural Qìgōng for the Aging: 2 to 3 p.m. Killingworth Library, event that continues every Thursday to fold and com301 Rte. 81. Features a program that emphasizes stretch- plete 1,000 origami peace cranes. The purpose is to bring ing, strength, stability, and stamina. Presented by martial people together and find inner peace while folding the arts instructor Stephen Watson. All levels welcome. For cranes. Once 1,000 cranes are reached, they will be info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit donated to a charity of the group's choosing. No experikillingworthlibrary.org. ence needed. Directions and materials provided. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

YA Library Advisory Board Planning Meeting: 3:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., See page 27 Old Saybrook. Participants ages 12 to 18 are invited to

26

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Page Turners Startlement

By Ada Limón This award-winning poet laureate’s newest collection is steeped in storytelling, skillfully balancing joy and despair while offering a fresh perspective on nature and poetry. I was elated to read and reread this glorious collection. Consider this line: “Startle the sad spring air with the whirring of your wings.”

— Roxanne R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Puzzlemania!

By Joel Fagliano For the puzzler—what a great collection of New York Times games. Whether someone does one or many, whether they do them everyday or occasionally, having this book to work through will be fun and, at times, challenging. Get ready for some brain action!

— Lori R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

E

very other week, we invite local booksellers to submit suggestions for the best books on shelves now—it’s all part of our mission to keep our readers informed, up-to-date, and entertained. View previous Page Turners at www.zip06.com/pageturners.

Letters From the Edge

By Jeff Wilser From the isolation of the Arctic to deepsea dives and volcanic landscapes, these firsthand accounts reveal the courage and curiosity that drive humanity forward.

It is a riveting and inspiring read for adventurers, history enthusiasts, and anyone captivated by the frontiers of discovery.

— Tijae R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Something From Nothing

By Alison Roman Knowing this cookbook exists because of Alison’s love for soups, but has way more to offer, is all you need to know! The recipes are straightforward, with the goal of using ingredients already in your pantry (mostly). What a great gift for new cooks as well as those who really know their way around the kitchen.

— Lori R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

27

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Photo courtesy of the Shoreline Arts Alliance

The 2025 Scholarships in the Arts winners at Shoeline Arts Alliance's Celebration of the Arts

Shoreline Arts Alliance Now Accepting Applications for the 46th Annual Scholarships in the Arts Press Release from the Shoreline Arts Alliance

Shoreline Arts Alliance is now accepting applications for the 46th annual Scholarships in the Arts program. This program is open to high school juniors and seniors who are pursuing further study in the arts and reside within Shoreline Arts Alliance’s 24-town region—which covers all of Middlesex County, Madison, Guilford, North Branford, Branford, East Haven, Lyme, East Lyme, Old Lyme, and Salem. Applicants may apply in the fields of creative

writing, dance, instrumental music, theatre, visual art, and vocal music.

Deserving students will be awarded scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,000.

The winner in each category will receive a $1,000 scholarship for continuing education and/or supplies as well as a mentorship from a professional artist. Applications are now available through the Shoreline Arts Alliance website and will be accepted through Jan 8. Applicants will be contacted to schedule interviews and auditions.

Continued from page 25 Creative Crafts with Jesse: Paper Quilling Make-up: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For ages 18 and over. Features a make-up class for missed paper quilling classes, including those to make pumpkins, a coastal scene, flower, and fall tree. Materials provided. For info or to register (required), visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Students who are interested in the arts and reside in the 24-town region are encouraged to apply.

The applications are judged by professional, working artists in each field of study who provide valuable feedback to each student.

A $25 nonrefundable fee is required with each application, and students may apply in multiple categories. For more information or to apply, visit shoreline arts.org. b

National Theatre Live in HD Encore: The Fifth Step: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen.

Running time: 100 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 9 One Night in Memphis (Tribute to Sun Record Artists: Presley, Perkins, Lewis, and Cash): 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Say-

About the Shoreline Arts Alliance Since 1980, Shoreline Arts Alliance has evolved from an arts-presenting organization to one that focuses on professional arts development, creating supportive communities in which artists thrive through recognition, mentorships, networking, and education. These communities encourage, empower, and develop talented artists while transforming their lives.

For more information, contact 203-4216739 or office@shorelinearts.org, or visit shorelinearts.org.

brook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

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.

Beyoncé

28

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Horoscopes

Crossword

For the week of January 1 - January 7 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Aries, look for ways to boost your income this week. Be open to dealing with people who may otherwise not come on your radar. Some extra earnings will be useful.

This is the perfect time to travel or try a new activity, Libra. Go someplace you have never been before. That may involve exploring your own neighborhood or city.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Taurus, you may be happy to socialize this week, especially with new people who are friendly and congenial. Enjoy some time out on the town and the chance to meet new people.

Enjoy the company of others this week, Scorpio. People will be warm, friendly, inclusive, and generally happy to share ideas and experiences with you.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Right now you are anxious to work and be productive, Gemini. However, obstacles seem to get in your way left and right. You might need to devise a plan to overcome the challenges.

Work-related travel may be on the itinerary this week, Sagittarius. You also might find yourself more involved with foreign affairs or people from other cultures.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Your involvement in sports, groups and clubs will be a positive experience for you this week, Cancer.

Not only will you enjoy the interaction, you will feel a sense of optimism.

Capricorn, accept invitations to socialize with others this week. This is a great opportunity to have fun. It’s a good time to enjoy movies, the arts or the entertainment world in general.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Leo, there’s no better time to identify financial commitments and make some changes to how you move your money than right now. The doors of financial institutions will open for you.

Think about inviting someone over for coffee or pizza. You might be motivated to have an impromptu social gathering, Aquarius. Others will be happy to take you up on the offer.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Virgo, you might make an excellent impression on others today, especially a boss that has had their eyes on you for some time. Fear not; you are only projecting good things.

Convincing others to embrace your way of thinking may require a little more effort than you are able to put forth right now, Pisces. Be patient and things will change for the better.

Crossword solution for December 25, 2025

JANUARY 1 Ice Spice, Rapper (26) JANUARY 2 Dax Shepard, Actor (51) JANUARY 3 Florence Pugh, Actress (30) JANUARY 4 Lola Young, Singer (25)

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 5 Carrie Ann Inaba, Dancer (58) JANUARY 6 Rowan Atkinson, Actor (71) JANUARY 7 Jeremy Renner, Actor (55)

CLUES ACROSS 1. Paddles 5. Sunscreen rating 8. Very fast airplane 11. Immune responses 13. “Partner” to feather 14. New England river 15. Longest river in New Guinea 16. Midway between east and southeast 17. Israeli politician 18. Back bones 20. Consumed 21. One you can rely on 22. Dressed up gaudily 25. Representatives 30. Dog breed 31. Pitching statistic 32. Manpower 33. S. Korean entertainer 38. Outsourcing firm 41. Viceroy of Egypt under Turkish rule 43. One who removes antlers from a flower 45. Potluck dish 48. Discount 49. Airborne (abbr.)

50. Cavalry sword 55. Basics 56. Hollywood director Howard 57. Afflicted in mind or body 59. Horsley and Majors are two 60. Midway between northeast and east 61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation 62. Malaysian isthmus 63. Fall back 64. Cheek

CLUES DOWN 1. Former CIA 2. Baseball’s best pitchers 3. __ Nui, Easter Island 4. Invests in little enterprises 5. Constant 6. Hobby 7. A place to store food 8. Short-tail marten 9. Burn with a hot liquid 10. Left his heart in San Francisco 12. Swedish krona 14. Legendary actor Connery 19. French cleric 23. Former measure of length for textiles 24. Opaque glassy substance 25. Residue of burned item 26. A place to unwind 27. Japanese honorific 28. Terminus 29. Fails to make a shot 34. Journalist Tarbell 35. College hoops tournament 36. Monetary unit of Macao 37. Of she 39. Spoke ill of 40. Elements 41. Kilocalorie (abbr.)

42. Shades 44. Poem of fourteen lines 45. Pole used in Scottish sport 46. Hollyhocks genus 47. Street name for marijuana 48. Polio vaccine developer 51. Swiss river 52. Prejudice 53. Actor Idris 54. Confederate soldiers 58. Criticize

Word Search

29

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.

SHOPPING WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for December 25, 2025: VIRUS

AISLE BAG BARCODE BOUTIQUE BUDGET CART CASHIER CHECKOUT CLEARANCE COUPON DELIVERY DISCOUNT INVENTORY MALL MERCHANDISE ONLINE PRICE PURCHASE RECEIPT REFUND RETAIL SALE SHOPPER STOREFRONT Word Search solution for December 25, 2025

30

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

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31

REAL ESTATE • HARBOR NEWS • JANUARY 1, 2026

Real Estate Transactions BRANFORD 8 Autumn Ridge Rd: Gary H. and Deborah B. Komoroski of Branford to Christopher Fuller and Anna Keeney, $1,185,000 on 12/10/2025 77 Chestnut St: Mary J. Kenley of Branford to Richard T. Branch, $336,000 on 12/09/2025 Corbin Cir: S Gordon Demetre of Branford to Ernest W Glidden Jr T and Ernest W. Glidden, $615,000 on 12/09/2025 103 Fresh Meadow Rd Unit 103: Anna Keeney of Branford to Dana C. and Orlando J. Estrada, $421,000 on 12/10/2025 25 Gray Ledge Rd: Edan F. Calabrese of Branford to Stephen Malarney and Priscilla Perdomo, $430,000 on 12/09/2025 27 Hickory Hill Ln: Thomas P. and Suzanne E. Smith of Branford to Matthew V. and Dawn M. Pandolfi, $765,000 on 12/11/2025 60 Montoya Dr Unit 60: Kjs Interests LLC of Branford to Clare Collins, $260,000 on 12/12/2025 49 Riverside Dr: John T. Mcgow of Branford to Justine Cormier, $808,000 on 12/09/2025 22 Rock Pasture Rd: Joseph J. and Patricia T. Scalabrino of Branford to Garrett M. Graham and William H. Tarkenton, $484,900 on 12/05/2025 62 S Montowese St: Salvatore N. Pannone of Branford to Kevin Odell and Kyeana Martone, $430,000 on 12/12/2025 19 Stonegate Unit D: Judith A. Libero of Branford to Fmp Properties LLC, $245,000 on 12/10/2025 74 Turtle Bay Dr Unit 74: Lenore A. Russo of Branford to Rita M. Jakubowski, $480,000 on 12/08/2025

CLINTON 12 Circle Dr: Golden Prop Solutions LLC of Clinton to Michele Geist, $360,000 on 12/09/2025 76 Fairy Dell Rd: Marilyn R. Haut of Clinton to Shannon Dobney, $330,000 on 12/10/2025 18 Hammock Rd: Blanche Coogan Ft and Jennifer Spinach of Clinton to Katelyn Baron, $600,000 on 12/10/2025 52 High St: Joshua and Sara Mengel of Clinton to Ryan P. Pickering and Anna M. Mesham, $375,000 on 12/08/2025

40 Kelseytown Rd: Patricia S. Fraser of Clinton to Neal A. and Joan L. Lewis, $675,000 on 12/11/2025 26 Menunketesuck Dr: Jonathan J. Ranno of Clinton to Unit Secure Capital LLC, $330,000 on 12/10/2025 36 Silver Birch Ln: Daniel J. Figuenick of Clinton to Zachary F. and Jessica L. Faiella, $530,000 on 12/08/2025 7 Tamarack Dr: Peake Samuel R Est and Sally Redfern of Clinton to Michael C. Fraenza, $435,000 on 12/08/2025

ESSEX

MADISON

1 Foxboro Rd: Tevis Holdings Lp of Essex to Mary E. Coons, $3,650,000 on 12/10/2025 7 Foxboro Rd: Michael L. Tevis of Essex to Norman M. Needleman, $1,600,000 on 12/09/2025 85 River Rd Unit H1: Raymond G H Seitz Irt and Rm B. Seitz of Essex to Philip L. Ross, $395,000 on 12/11/2025

66 Beaver Pond Rd: Kevin V. and Kristine W. Kehoe of Madison to Clayton Cassone, $95,000 on 12/11/2025 93 Deepwood Dr: Shawna Barker of Madison to Jonathan and Scott Gordon, $350,000 on 12/08/2025 73 Middle Beach Rd W: William C. Pfister of Madison to Lewis M Pfister Jr Lt and Lewis M. Pfister, $487,666 on 12/12/2025 21 Parker Ave: David C. and Mary C. Fleming of Madison to John A. Pescatore and Anne Martin, $1,025,000 on 12/11/2025

GUILFORD

DEEP RIVER Castle Hts: Richard J. Lof of Deep River to Andrea Lanoux and Christopher Colbath, $105,000 on 11/19/2025 69 High St: Foltz Robert D and David Devlin-Foltz of Deep River to Brandon G. and Jessica L. Green, $407,000 on 11/25/2025 15 Prospect St: Fraser Caroline Joyce Amb and Lisa Fraser of Deep River to Bradley P. Kline and Katherine E. Straka, $393,000 on 11/25/2025 152 Union St: Danielle Thompson of Deep River to John C. Felix, $379,000 on 11/26/2025

EAST HAVEN 83 Bradley Ave: Steven R. and Violetta Prinz of East Haven to Steven Prinz, $389,900 on 12/12/2025 19 Clark Ave: Freedman Re Hldg Iii LLC of East Haven to Jessica Pedrosa, $400,000 on 12/09/2025 46 County Walk Ln Unit 46: William M. Lupi of East Haven to Michele M. Albino, $331,000 on 12/10/2025 265 Grannis St: John A. Vuolo of East Haven to Giovanni and Vincenza Deluca, $335,100 on 12/11/2025 14 Harmac Dr: Joseph P. and Donna R. Consiglio of East Haven to Kellie Consiglio, $365,000 on 12/10/2025 105 Laurel St: Robert L. and Sally Cole of East Haven to Abel D. Velez, $535,000 on 12/11/2025 111 Laurel St: Robert L. and Sally Cole of East Haven to Abel D. Velez, $535,000 on 12/11/2025 111-A Laurel St: Robert L. and Sally Cole of East Haven to Abel D. Velez, $535,000 on 12/11/2025

NORTH BRANFORD

THE WHITEMAN TEAM at William Raveis Real Estate

Kelly Whiteman Realtor

®

21 Whitfield Street, Guilford CT 06437 O: 203.453.0391 • C: 607.434.1865 • O: 203.458.3449

Kelly.Whiteman@raveis.com • TheWhitemanTeam.raveis.com

330 Foxwood Rd: Andrew and Christine Daigle of Guilford to Matthew S. Miller, $722,000 on 12/11/2025 599 Goose Ln: Rosemary F. Gatti of Guilford to Ricky A. Flores and Megan A. Robbins, $532,000 on 12/10/2025 102 N Mill Cir: Kortleven Simon Est and Michael J. Sweeney of Guilford to Lisa Mccabe, $632,000 on 12/08/2025 324 Tanner Marsh Rd: Richard and Victoria Gersten of Guilford to John and Stephanie Mcgow, $1,645,000 on 12/10/2025 134 Water St: S Robert Jelley Ft and David W. Kesner of Guilford to Philip D. and Stephanie M. Johnson, $550,000 on 12/08/2025 76 Wauwinet Trl Unit 76: William L. Dill of Guilford to Claudia A. Stavidlo, $240,100 on 12/11/2025

34 Birchwood Rd: Carol C Sacco T and Carol C. Sacco of North Branford to Nicholas D. Vatteroni, $480,000 on 12/10/2025 27 Coach Dr: Carol A. Camera of North Branford to Tristan and Rebecca L. White, $515,000 on 12/09/2025 1616 Middletown Ave: Stapleton T and Edward R. Stapleton of North Branford to Arthur and Gail Bellucci, $525,000 on 12/12/2025 107 Woodhouse Ave: Jeremy S. Bales of North Branford to Joseph Iossa and Candice Paragano, $510,000 on 12/11/2025

OLD SAYBROOK

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KILLINGWORTH 36 Kenilworth Dr: Paulo Duhl of Killingworth to Marianela Torres, $175,000 on 12/04/2025 8 Linnea Ln: Mary P Garrelts RET and Mary P. Garrelts of Killingworth to Ryan A. Derry and Rachel W. Szabo, $815,000 on 12/04/2025 208 Route 80 Unit 33-19: Michal and Theresa Reilly of Killingworth to 208 Route 80 LLC, $400,000 on 12/08/2025

5 Fox Hollow Rd: Sharon A. Mahoney of Old Saybrook to Lydia E. and William B. Ryan, $722,500 on 12/08/2025 26 Meadowood Ln: Css Bldg Remodeling Inc of Old Saybrook to Frank H. and Alana B. Mueller, $1,169,000 on 12/11/2025 Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group.

For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.

32

JANUARY 1, 2026 • HARBOR NEWS • REAL ESTATE

FROM YOUR LOCAL REALTORS!

Dylan Walter William Raveis Real Estate

860.227.5277

Gigi Giordano Taylor Compass Real Estate

203.671.2155

Nick Prevost

Carla Mousch

Suzanne McConville

860.460.8862

860.333.6330

860.227.4306

201.725.1845

Jan Murray JM Realty

860.388.8105

Devyn & AJ Gemmell Chiarito Real Estate

Sharon Linder

William Raveis Real Estate

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

860.575.1240 | 203.214.3023

Kara Bell JM Realty

Cheryl Keithan

860.227.7355

Trever Smith

Chiarito Real Estate

860.876.7144

William Raveis Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Realty

860.463.0900

Pat Reed

Chiarito Real Estate

860.395.7412

William Raveis Real Estate

Sang Ah Jee

William Raveis Real Estate

860.575.1897

Todd Bakoledis

Al & Kim Chiarito

860.575.8423

Al 860.227.2074 | Kim 860.575.7170

Coldwell Banker Realty

Jake Pulcini

Chiarito Real Estate

860.227.5488

Melissa Yates

Chiarito Real Estate

203.430.6449

Chiarito Real Estate

Joel Lucas

Coldwell Banker Realty

860.304.9150