Harbor News 04-03-25

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXVIII Iss.

Embattled Police Chief Retires; Will Step Down April 11

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer

On March 2, Old Saybrook Chief of Police Michael Spera announced he would be retiring from his position on April 11. The announcement comes on the heels of the release of a report from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) that found a poor

work environment within the department was responsible for a high rate of personnel turnover and which had increased scrutiny on Spera.

At 5:30 p.m. on March 25, a lengthy press release was posted to the town website announcing that Spera would be leaving his position this spring before “formally retiring in September.” Spera had been in his 16th

year as police chief of the Old Saybrook Police Department (OSPD).

At a Board of Selectmen special meeting on March 27, Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna said Spera would be relieved of his duties as chief on April 11. Following that, he will continue to assist the town but

See Embattled page 10

Cookies for a Cause

Girl Scouts from Troop 62797 set up their cookie sales table in front of 61 East Main Street in Clinton on March 29. In the upcoming weeks, booths will pop up all along the shoreline with cookies to help fund troop activities, build entrepreneurial skills, and support community service projects. To find a location, visit girlscouts.org.

Pictured from the left are Natalie Biens, Brooke Wininger, Elexa Ulrich, Madison Corella, and Lily Bertelli.

Brian Walls

is a new face among the stacks at HCH Library............................................2

The Morgan boys’ and girls’ indoor track teams saw a lot of improvement this winter, with many athletes setting personal records....................14 Seeing Growth

The first blooms of spring are starting to appear.........26 1-2-3-4 Spring

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ HarborNews

Brian Walls: Falling Into Henry Carter Hull Library

By Eric O’Connell

Staff Writer

Frequent visitors to the Henry Carter Hull Library may notice a new face when they come to the building. Brian Walls recently began his job as the reference librarian at the library and is ready to help patrons with any questions they have.

“The main thing is, I’m here to help people,” Brian says.

As a reference librarian, that means doing a little bit of everything.

When one thinks of a library, they invariably think of rows and rows of books. However, the Henry Carter Hull Library in Clinton is also a home for more modern equipment, including movies, business resources, and technology which some patrons may not be familiar using on their own. Brian’s job can range from helping one person with printing or technology questions to helping someone else navigate the library’s various digital resources to answering somebody

Person of the Week

else’s book queries.

“It really is a little bit of everything,” Brian jokes.

One upcoming event which exemplifies the kinds of programs people come to modern libraires for is the Cookbook Club. According to the library’s website, the club selects a different cookbook every month, and members prepare a recipe from the book to share with each other. The members then get to sample all the food while discussing tips and techniques connected to the food.

The event is held at the library on the first Thursday of each month from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Registration is required, and interested participants should contact the library.

Brian started working at the

Henry Carter Hull Library about a month ago.

“I had been working on my master’s in library science, and this library was really the first one to reach out to me to see if I wanted to work with them, and it seemed like a really nice library,” Brian explains of his decision to come to Clinton.

Despite being new to Clinton, Brian is not new to libraries. In the past, Brian has worked at libraries in Stonington and at UConn’s Avery Point campus. However, the notion of working in a library was not always on Brian’s radar.

“I kind of fell into it. I had graduated college and was working a lot of part-time jobs when a friend told me to look at libraries,” Brian recalls.

Brian found an opening in Stonington, where he had friends, and moved there.

“I found I really enjoyed it,” Brian says.

See Brian Walls page 12

Photo Courtesy of Brian Wallss

Frequent visitors to the Henry Carter Hull Library may notice a new face when they come to the building. Brian Walls recently began his job as the reference librarian at the library and is ready to help patrons with any questions they have.

Editor to the support for the Town of Guilford Budget and encourage the same. I believe our have created a budget that residents.

Thursday, April 3

to 3,500 meals from Meals served at the Community miles of town transportation errands, and trips to the services are vital to many of us. than an opportunity for economical, nutritious hot meal; it socialize with others. Other social special lunches with entertainmagicians, speakers, and also several evening dinner popular May “Senior Prom” movie.

Tuesday, April 8

Board of Selectmen Conservation Commission

We must continue to come together as a community to support our town and our schools. I urge you to participate in this important budget referendum. Vote “Yes” on April 16.

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-669-9101 or visit the Clinton town website at www.clintonct.org to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 6 p.m.

Monday, April 7

Suzanne Carlson Guilford

Zoning Board of Appeals Parks and Recreation Commission

Extend the Same Welcome Mat

Plan of Conservation and Development Meeting

Wednesday, April 9 Thursday, April 10

Coastal Resiliency Task Force Board of Police Commissioners

Aquifer Protection Agency and Planning and Zoning Commission

Tuesday, April 8

Economic Development Commission

Family Services requests continue to support the critical agency. continue to be among the best score high on the State standardized tests. They in addition to the arts proposed education budget for additional funding for athletics as support for students’ social a continued commitment communities for teachers from instructional coaches to all schools.

Plan of Conservation and Development Community Workshop Water Pollution Control Commission

Wednesday, April 9

6:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 10

CLINTON TOWN MEETINGS OLD SAYBROOK TOWN MEETINGS

Perhaps you’ve noticed that many of our local churches provide regular meeting space for both Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous programs. I would bet these meetings even take place in our towns on a weekly basis. There is a good chance that some of them are located near daycare centers, residential neighborhoods, and schools. They provide much-needed space for people to achieve sobriety through fellowship and the ongoing support of an understanding community. They have been doing so in Connecticut for well over 75 years without complaint. Addiction takes many forms, including a dependency on opiates. Addictions are non-discriminatory. They affect the rich and poor, old and young, suburban and urban residents. Guilford is not immune from the very real health crisis that comes with opiate addiction. Why then brand a methadone clinic with the prejudice of fear? Choosing to maintain sobriety should be encouraged with appropriate and effective treatment. Why not extend the same welcome mat to a methadone clinic that we have extended to other groups confronting the devastation of addiction? A methadone clinic in our town would serve the very people who we call our relatives, neighbors, and friends. They deserve our support so they can continue to do the hard, heroic work of staying sober.

Economic Development Commission

Guilford’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1998

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1998

Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2024 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

TOWN MEETINGS

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-3993044, ext. 118, or visit the Westbrook town website at www.westbrookct.us to learn how to participate in the following meetings:

Thursday, April 3

Board of Finance

Tuesday, April 8

Estuary Transit District Facilities Committee

Board of Selectmen Board of Education Annual Town Meeting

budget continues to provide environments where and socially thrive.

Legacy Theatre Spring 2024 Classes

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-395-3135 or visit the Old Saybrook town website at www.oldsaybrookct.org to learn how to participate in the following meetings:

Monday, April 7

Wednesday, April 9

Visiting Nurses and Public Health Board

Kate Summerlin Guilford

Thursday, April 10

registrations for its classes for spring 2024. Classes are offered for participants ranging in age from abilities in acting and the performance arts. Classes offered are Wheel Life Theatre Troupe, Toddler sessions), Musical Theatre Performance (middle school and high school sessions), Creating Your Own Technical Theatre, Adult Improv, and more. Classes may take place at any of the following Branford locaThimble Islands Road; Legacy Theatre Rehearsal Studio, 28 School Street; Joseph Trapasso Community Branford High School, 185 East Main Street. Space may be limited. For more information on each class legacytheatrect.org/classes.

Town Center Revitalization Committee/Economic Development Commission Meeting

Meetings

clerk at 203-453-8001 or visit website at www.guilfordct. participate in the following

LEGAL

Saturday, April 6

NOTICE

OF

DECISION

WESTBROOK ZONING COMMISSION

Inland Wetlands Commission Walk Meeting: 7:30 a.m.

Notice is hereby given that the Westbrook Zoning Commission approved the following Special Permit at their regular meeting on Monday March 24th, 2025, 1. (Approved with Conditions) ZC2025-003 – Special Permit Application– Oxford Academy Knight Hall addition & façade improvements

Monday, April 8

Location: 1393 Boston Post Road - Assessor’s M/L: 177-132 , Zone: NCD Applicant: The Oxford Academy c/o Edward M Cassella, Esq.

Marina Commission: 7 p.m.

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

Dated: 03/27/2025

Commission: 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, April 10

Inland Wetlands Commission: 7 p.m.

Harry Ruppenicker, Jr. – Zoning Commission Chairman

Shell sh Commission: 7:30 p.m.

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Chris Piccirillo Deputy Editor

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Ext. 6130

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Laura Carpenter Harbor News Ext. 6140

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Christopher Dobbins Prepress Coordinator & Multimedia Designer

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

John Lecardo Sports Reporter

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Chris Piccirillo Digital Editor

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Laura Carpenter Harbor News Ext. 6140

Louvenia Brandt Associate Publisher &

6142 Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

David A. Ellis Classifieds Manager Ext. 6130

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Christopher Dobbins Prepress Coordinator & Multimedia Designer

John Hyzak Guilford Courier Ext. 6168

Eric O’Connell Harbor News John Lecardo Sports Reporter

Maria Caulfield Associate Editor

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Jennifer Corthell Senior Graphic Designer/ Special Sections

Gabrielle Hurlbut Sports Editor

Pam Johnson Senior Staff Writer

Aaron Rubin Valley Courier

Jim Schiavone Regional Digital

Pem McNerney

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Multimedia Sales Executives

Editorial Staff

Gabrielle Maljanian Sports Editor

Kristen Lennon Circulation

Jennifer Corthell Senior Graphic

Pam Johnson Senior Staff Writer

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

James Mitchell Director of Sales

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Editorial Staff

A Closer Look At Clinton’s Proposed Budget

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer CLINTON

With a public hearing over the proposed budget coming up on Thursday, April 24, the took a closer look at the proposed town and education budgets. The public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Town Hall.

Harbor News

At a meeting on March 12, the Town Council unanimously voted in favor of forwarding a proposed town budget of $23,554,949 (a $206,182 or a 0.87% reduction from last year) and a proposed education budget of $42,866,496 (a $2,203,584 or 5.42% increase from last year) to a public hearing. The proposed total budget is $66,421,445, a $1,997,402 or a 3.10% increase.

Under the proposed budget, the mil rate would rise to 31.26, increasing taxes by 3.31%.

At the public hearing, taxpayers can voice their opinions for or against the education or town budgets. Immediately following the public hearing, the town council will hold a special meeting at which it can make any last changes to either the education or town budget before sending the budgets to a referendum in May, where voters get to approve or reject the proposals.

Town Budget

The proposed town budget is $23,554,949, a $206,182 or a 0.87% reduction from last year’s budget. The decrease in the budget is due to a decrease in proposed capital projects; however, the operations side of the town budget does increase.

Town Manager Michelle Benivegna

said the increase in town operations is due to salaries and contractual obligations as well as inflation. In particular, Benivegna said insurance costs increased by 3.70% due to inflation, and operating expenses increased by 7.6% due to inflation.

“These adjustments reflect necessary cost increases while ensuring continued services for the community,” Benivegna said.

Under the proposal, no staff positions were cut, but some staff hours were adjusted, and two new positions were added.

One new position is a human services prevention coordinator. Benivegna said this role was previously funded via a grant.

“With grant funding ending, the Town Council recognized the importance of maintaining this service and decided to fund the position. It was filled in the current fiscal year using salary savings and is now formally included in the FY26 budget,” Benivegna said.

A second new position included in the proposed budget is a part-time town engineer.

“This role is greatly needed to support the town’s infrastructure and development. A civil engineer plays a crucial role in both daily operations and long-term planning,” Benivegna said.

The engineer would assist the town with tasks such as focusing on infrastructure, maintenance and improvement, project planning and execution, regulatory compliance and permitting, traffic and transportation planning, grant opportunities, and stormwater and flood management.

Obituaries

Obituary Dena Grandmaison

Old Saybrook

Dena Rachel Zeim Grandmaison, 51, of Old Saybrook, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer. Dena was born on May 8, 1973, at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. She was a spirited child, always full of energy and enthusiasm, with a natural curiosity that drove her to explore the world around her.

Dena graduated from Declo High School in Idaho before going on to earn her bachelor’s degree in pre-medicine from Western Connecticut State University, followed by two master's degrees. Dena also studied biology at the University of Illinois, obtaining her teacher certification.

Dena's professional journey began in medical sales, but she soon found her true passion selling textbooks to colleges and universities, working for Cengage Learning and McGraw Hill. A staunch believer in the power of education to brighten children's futures, Dena excelled in this field, making a lasting impact.

Of all her accomplishments, Dena was most proud of her role as a mother to her beloved children, Genevieve and Breydon Grandmaison of East Haddam. Dena poured love and energy into her family, from running the Daisy Troop to taking them on hikes, road trips, and visits to Lake Compounce. She also coached t-ball for one unforgettable season, always striving to make moments together joyful. Though she couldn't always be there as they grew, her love for them was immeasurable, and her pride in them was evident in everything she did.

In 2015, Dena met the true love of her life, Page Guptill of Old Saybrook.

Their connection was immediate and undeniable. Their love was rare and unwavering, steadfast through all challenges, and felt deeply by everyone around them. Together, they built a beautiful, passionate life overflowing with love for each other and their animals.

Dena is now reunited with her beloved pets, Moose, Pudance, and Bella, while Ramsey remains to miss her dearly. Dena's heart was so full of love for Page, and even in her passing, that love will continue to shine in Page's heart forever. Dena is survived by her mother, Marge Thornton; her father, Jim Zeim; and stepmother, Florence DeVaughn-Zeim; her sisters, Heidi Williams and Sara Zeim; her brothers, James Zeim and Mike Zeim; several step-siblings; and numerous nieces and nephews, including Azia Rain and River McKinlay, whom she loved like her own children. Dena was preceded in death by her deeply cherished sister, Lisha Zeim. Dena was also blessed with a close-knit circle of friends, whom she loved like family. Her longtime friendships with Kelly "Monkey" Haydt of North Carolina, Hope Hoffmann of South Carolina, and Cherie Alfonso of Haddam were filled with laughter, support, and deep affection. In the eyes of those who knew her, Dena was fairy dust, rainbows, and firecrackers. Her smile could brighten the darkest day. She was a fierce and loyal friend, as close to a sister as anyone could ever have. No one will ever fill the void she has left in their lives or in this world.

A celebration of Dena's life, in true "Dena style," will be held by her family in late spring or early summer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dena's memory to a charity of your choice that supports children's education or breast cancer research. Dena will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her love, laughter and spirit will remain with us always.

See OBITUARIES page 11

Free Genealogy Help at Westbrook Library

Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Drive, Westbrook offers free genealogy help from 6 to 8 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month. No appointment needed. For more information, contact the library at 860 399-6422 or westbrook.public.lib@snet.net.

Contacting Harbor News

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 Wednesday at noon, eight 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.

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A Closer Look At Clinton’s Proposed Budget

Continued from page 6

“These staffing adjustments reflect the town’s commitment to maintaining and improving services while being mindful of budgetary constraints,” Benivegna said.

Capital improvement projects in the proposed town budget include fire apparatus, police software and vehicles, a public works storage building, public works vehicles, road and sidewalk designs, HVAC improvements, bleacher replacement, land acquisition funding, dredging, and infrastructure upgrades.

Benivegna said, “$2,633,105 of this will be funded by fund balance; the rest will be funded by a combination of grants, bonding, and other fund.”

According to Benivegna, the proposed budget balances town needs with economic realities.

“The proposed budget for Clinton is a need-based plan that strategically addresses key areas where the town has long required additional support, including the addition of essential positions. While Clinton, like all municipalities, is not immune to the challenges of the cur-

rent economic climate, this budget ensures that critical services are maintained and community needs are met while remaining mindful of expenses. The goal is to enhance town operations, improve services, and invest in the future, all while exercising fiscal responsibility to minimize the impact on taxpayers,” Benivegna said.

The Education Budget

The proposed education budget is $42,866,496, a $2,203,584 or 5.42% increase from last year.

During a budget presentation earlier in 2025, Superintendent of Schools Maryann O’Donnell said that the out-of-district tuition costs were overwhelmingly responsible for the increase in the budget.

“The out-of-district tuition cost represents the total expenditures for students who receive their education in a specialized program outside of the district. The increase in this cost for next year is due to an increase in the tuition cost of placements and an increase in the number of students who require these programs to meet their educational needs. This one

Legal Notice for Boulder Lake Tax District Annual Meeting 2025

The annual meeting of The Boulder Lake Tax District will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025. The meeting will be held in person at the Community Room of the Henry Carter Hull Library starting at 7:30 PM. Officers will be elected, a budget will be proposed and voted upon, and a mill rate will be set. Changes to the Bylaws may be discussed and voted on. We need 15 members to have a quorum. Make an effort to attend. All owners of record and all residents of Boulder Lake who are registered to vote in Clinton can vote at the meeting. Please have identification. A mailing with this information will be sent out to all property owners along with a Spring Newsletter.

Boulder Lake Tax District

Wes Kavanagh-President

Town of Clinton

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Town of Clinton Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 7:00 P.M., in the Rose Room, of the William Stanton Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 East Main Street, Clinton, Connecticut, to consider the following:

1. ZBA25-3: 30 East Walk, James Whaley (Applicant) Neil Kochen (Owner). Application for Variance of Section 26.11.6 (Front Setback) – 2 requests and 29.2.1 Expansion of a Non-conforming Structure to raise the second-floor roof to allow for the expansion of the existing living space. Assessor’s Map 70 Block 67 Lot 120. Zone: R-10.

At said Hearing all persons will have the right to be heard and written communication received. The application(s) and accompanying maps and correspondence are available for public inspection on the Town’s Website. Laurie Jaffe, Chair, Town of Clinton ZBA

component makes up more than half of the increase in the operating budget,” O’Donnell said.

O’Donnell said that the state does reimburse a portion of the cost.

“It is important to note that while the Board of Education budget includes the full increase in projected tuition costs, the state reimburses a portion of the costs related to these tuitions. The Board of Education operating budget includes the full amount that will be expended, but the state will reimburse the town for a percentage of that cost. This is accounted for in the Town budget revenue projections. The impact is that the reimbursed portion, which is anticipated to be increased next year, will increase the revenue to the town and effectively reduce the overall tax rate and the impact to the taxpayers,” O’Donnell said.

Other factors that contributed to the increase in the education budget include “contractual salary increases, increases in health insurance rates, and transportation costs for out-of-district placements,” O’Donnell said.

The proposed budget does include staffing level changes. Two paraeducators will be reduced with one grant funded, a technology support position will be reduced from 12 months to 10 months, and three certified staff members will be reduced.

“There are reductions to staffing levels and positions in the 2025-’26 budget in response to student enrollment decreases and district needs. Cost-containment efforts related to salary costs include applying grant funding and reductions to funding for extra pay positions,” O’Donnell said.

As for programming needs, O’Donnell said the district continually revaluates how resources are used and reallocated to “focus on a quality student experience.”

“This budget does not require additional funding for new programs but does support new courses and experiences for students, including a new robotics course and an atmospheric science course at The Morgan School,” O’Donnell said.

Furthermore, O’Donnell added, “The school counseling department at The Morgan School has expanded its services to include both career and college exploration, partnering with local employers in the advanced manufacturing, hospitality, and trades sectors.”

Capital improvement works on the education side of the budget that O’Donnell outlined included projects like upgrades to bathrooms and the playground at Joel,

flooring replacement at Eliot, refinishing the gym floor, auditorium sound system upgrades, and parking lot sealing and painting at Morgan.

“Districtwide, there are investments in network security, phone system upgrades, and funding for technology and equipment replacement cycles,” O’Donnell said.

According to Board of Education Chairperson Erica Gelven, the proposed education budget maintains programming for students while balancing cost-saving needs.

“In light of the few areas that are driving increases in the budget, the Board of Education remained committed to finding cost-savings in all other areas to offset those that are related to required costs based on contractual obligations and student needs,” Gelven said.

“This included a focus on maintaining the programs and services our students require and deserve while thoroughly vetting genuine needs and viewing decisions through the lens of fiscal responsibility. As they have always done, Board of Education members worked diligently to make difficult, prudent budget decisions that reflect the voices and expectations of our parents and community,” Gelven concluded.

The Process

The next step in the process is to hear what voters have to say at the public hearing. The Town Council will then deliberate one final time immediately after the hearing to make any last adjustments to the proposed budget.

Though the town and education budgets comprise the total budget, residents will vote on them separately when they approve or deny the budget at a referendum on May 14.

That means voters can pass one budget and reject the other in the same referendum.

If one or both of the budgets fail, the Town Council revises them immediately following the vote. The following week, another public hearing is held, and the week after the public hearing, another referendum is held.

Budget cycles in Clinton were a highly contentious topic in the decade from 2009’19 as the town was able to pass both the town and education budgets in the same referendum only twice (2016 and 2019). However, budget hearings over the last six years have been mostly calm affairs with substantially less controversy.

A Special Shelter Bromance!

Story by Carol Andrecs

Although they are not related and were not rescued from the same location, these two young boys have a blossoming bromance which gets stronger each day. Wolfie (left) is a short-haired and sleek black cat with golden eyes, and his buddy Gucci (right) is a long-haired black beauty. They can always be found with their heads resting against each other, as they quickly became the best of friends.

Wolfie and Gucci love affection, interactive playtime, treats, and cuddling in the warmth of the sun. They would be heartbroken if they were separated and would probably be happiest in a quiet home with no young children or dogs. Are you looking for a bonded pair of very handsome boys? Stop by our open house to meet these snuggle buddies or apply to adopt them online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

2025 Forgotten Felines Mother’s Day Plant Sale

Forgotten Felines is holding its annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All plants must be pre-ordered. To place an order, please fill out the form found at

www.forgottenfelinesct.org and return with a check to Forgotten Felines, PO Box 734, Clinton, CT 06413 by Monday, April 21. Plants must be picked up on May 10 at 153 Horse Hill Road in Westbrook. For more information, please leave a message on the fundraising line at 860-669-1347.

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 in Westbrook. No appointment is necessary.

We’re Hopping into

• Regular maintenance on all makes/ models: gas, oil or electric

• Frozen or broken pipes

• Winterizing home heating systems

• Venting for dryers & exhaust systems

• Gas fireplace inserts & piping

• Pool heaters; service and install

• Complete residential and commercial HVAC system change outs (including ductless splits and heat pumps)

• Air purification systems, water heaters, commercial rooftop units and water heaters, custom duct work, processed piping

• …and so much more!

At County Hearing and Balance, we have been caring for your hearing health for over 49 years. We offer advanced hearing devices that are clearly different. Our Doctors of Audiology are not limited to one specific brand. They can choose the right product for you, from the best manufacturers.

We participate with most insurances. Call ahead to determine your benefit.

Photo courtesy of Tracye Mueller

Embattled Police Chief Retires; Will Step Down April 11

Continued from page 1

not in his duty as chief before formally retiring Sept. 1. Fortuna speculated that Spera would help the town with items like planning for the annual summer street party or administrative issues. Spera did return requests for comment for this story. At that meeting, the board also unanimously ratified retirement and pension plan agreements between the Town and Spera. The obtained a copy of the agreement via a Freedom Of Information Act request. Among the items in the agreement, the town will continue to provide Spera with life and health assistance for his family for 18 months. Speara will also receive one year’s salary to be paid over 22 months starting in September. Starting Oct. 1, 2025, Spera will draw an annual pension of $145,920 for a single life annuity. In the agreement, the town negotiated to credit Spera with 35 years of service to the town instead of 29.

In the retirement plan, Spera will be compensated for 283 days of accrued vacation and sick time. Fortuna stressed that is something Spera would be entitled to no matter when he retired.

“This is a highly manageable cost for the town and its pension plan, and this strategy has been discussed with our town actuary. Our plan is fully funded for the chief’s retirement if he were to retire today. Adding these six years is a minor cost to the plan,” Fortuna said.

Under the separation agreement, the town will not pursue investigations related to the PERF report. The town and Spera both agreed not to disparage each other as part of the agreement, and Spera must return town property by April 11.

Fortuna said the town and Police Commission will need to now turn their attention to hiring a new chief. The police commission is set to meet on March 31 (after press time for this article) to discuss the next steps.

Fortuna said he is already soliciting search firms to help with the project and that he anticipates the town selecting the firm soon.

“The town’s people deserve and will get an open and transparent opportunity to choose their next chief; there needs to be an independent body involved to assist the police commission,” Fortuna said.

Police Commission Chairman Alfred Wilcox declined to comment at this time but acknowledged he had been aware of the ongoing negotiations between the town and Spera when asked if the news of the retirement surprised him.

department and Spera engaged in heavyhanded policing for minor offenses.

“arrogant,” and “disrespectful,” the report continued later.

The announcement of Spera’s retirement comes after the release in January of the results of a yearlong study by PERF into why officers were leaving the OSPD. The report concluded that the main reason was “an unpleasant” culture within the department, not due to employee dissatisfaction with pay and benefits, as Spera had contended. The report included serious accusations of mismanagement that town leaders called “troublesome.”

Spera and members of the union that represents the police department have disputed some of the findings of the report.

Across multiple meetings held in January and February in the wake of the release, some members of the public, including the Democratic Town Committee, publicly called for Spera to resign or be fired.

At those meetings, several speakers publicly addressed what one person at a February meeting called “the worst kept secret in town” – that members of the public close to Spera could allegedly benefit from the relationship while those critical of him would face his ire. Others spoke about instances where they alleged the

On the other hand, not everyone who spoke at the meetings in recent weeks was critical of Spera. Some speakers praised Spera for the work he’d done as chief and urged the commission to work with him to fix the problems identified in the report.

The Report on Spera

The PERF report’s origins date back to the summer of 2023 when Spera proposed increasing the salary and benefits of police officers to attract and retain quality officers, something Old Saybrook was struggling with compared to similarly sized towns.

The commission backed the idea, but before the town would commit to spending money to increase salaries and benefits, Fortuna and the commission both agreed a study should be done to see if that would fix the staffing problem. Spera and some members of the union were not proponents of the study.

In early 2024, Old Saybrook voters overwhelmingly approved hiring PERF to conduct the study. On Jan. 8, 2025, the final report was released, which concluded that it was not the pay rate and benefits that were causing OSPD’s staffing problems.

“The answer is clear: most officers leave OSPD because of the unpleasant work environment. PERF found scant evidence to support the claim that police officers leave OSPD for better pay and benefits elsewhere. Some officers even took pay cuts to leave OSPD for other law enforcement agencies. And every officer who spoke with PERF and left OSPD for another law enforcement agency said they are now happy to be working in the profession and enjoying their place of employment,” the conclusion of the report stated in part.

The PERF report contained 31 recommendations on how the town, commission, and department could work together to fix the working environment at the department.

Notably, replacing Spera was not one of the recommendations of the PERF report. However, the report was, at times, highly critical of Spera. In interviews with key stakeholders in town, some of whom were suggested to be interviewed by Spera, the PERF report stated even people who praised the chief acknowledged he could be difficult to work with.

“Most described him as mercurial: charming one day and intimidating, difficult, and overbearing the next,” the report said at one point. “…commissioners said Chief Spera can be a “bully,” “vindictive,”

The report weighed in on the sometimes combative relationship between Spera and the Police Commission.

“Unique to the commission was the vocalization of their struggles to provide oversight of OSPD, characterizing the chief as an obstructionist who frequently threatens legal action when the commission seeks change or asserts its authority. Specifically, they cited Chief Spera’s opposition to changing the commission’s bylaws, which now allow the public to make positive and negative comments about OSPD employees at Police Commission meetings. The commissioners also said Chief Spera threatened to sue for attempting to renegotiate his 2009 contract and reported that he has threatened to file complaints against some commissioners for various procedural disagreements,” the report said.

Elsewhere in the report, PERF researchers encouraged the town to modify future police chief contracts to remove the stipulation that the chief of police must agree to the method of an annual evaluation. This line has prevented the chief from ever undergoing a contractually obligated formal performance evaluation by the commission. The commission had voted in January to deny Spera a raise in the next fiscal year’s budget due to him not receiving a performance review. Wilcox also said last month that the provision would be struck from future police chief contracts.

The report encouraged the town to look into whether Spera’s consulting work with Maverick Motor Group was a conflict of interest or a contract violation.

While not specifically something PERF blamed on Spera, in the report and during a virtual presentation on the study results, PERF representatives made it a point to detail unique challenges that were present in studying OSPD.

A representative from PERF said they spent an excessive amount of time reassuring interview subjects that their words would be kept confidential out of fears of retaliation. Many interviews had to be done off-site in a neighboring town or via Zoom so that interview subjects wouldn’t be seen, provisions PERF representatives said they had never had to do before. The report also said that PERF had to retain a defamation lawyer due to “threats, claims, and objections Chief Spera and his attorney raised about the draft report.”

The PERF report did contain some positive notes about Spera. The report said that, in interviews, some town officials

Embattled page 12

Harbor News

The PERF Report

Continued from page 7

Obituary

Michelle Altmannsberger

Clinton

Michelle Altmannsberger, 58, of Clinton, passed away on March 14, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones after a long battle with cancer. Born on Sept. 9, 1966, in Middletown, Michelle was a lifelong resident of the Connecticut Shoreline. For the last 40 years, Michelle worked as a dedicated school bus driver and dispatcher for M&J Bus. Her commitment to the shoreline kids made her a beloved figure among students, faculty, parents, and fellow employees.

Michelle was a devoted wife to Eric Altmannsberger of 29 years and a loving mother to her three sons, Robert (Racheal), Brian (Jessica), and Bo

Free Health Screenings at The Estuary

(Elizabeth) Norman. Michelle found great joy in becoming a grandmother, "Omi," to Briana, Jacob, and Logan Norman.

Michelle had a passion for auto racing. She loved that racing brought her family close together, and she embraced fellow racers as her extended family. Her enthusiasm for racing was infectious and left a lasting impact on those around her.|

Michelle is survived by her mother, Sheila Curtis Heath DellaVecchia. She was predeceased by her father, Ernest Heath, and her stepmother, Mariam Heath.

Michelle always put the well-being of others before her own. In typical Michelle fashion, she had made her wishes clear that we will have a celebration of life at a later date.

The Estuary offers free cholesterol, diabetes (no fasting required), and blood pressure screenings for people aged 50 and over. The screenings take place on Fridays at The Estuary Center, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, and are conducted by Tina Belmont, R.N. Appointments are required. For more information or to make an appointment, call 860-388-1611, ext. 202.

PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will take place at the Old Saybrook Town Hall, 302 Main Street, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. to consider a resolution regarding joining the Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority as a member municipality.

Signed by: Carl P. Fortuna, Jr., First Selectman Scott Giegerich, Selectman Matthew Pugliese, Selectman

Dated at Old Saybrook, Connecticut, this 25th day of March, 2025. ATTEST: Sarah V. Becker, Town Clerk

LEGAL NOTICE

BOROUGH OF FENWICK PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Borough of Fenwick Planning and Zoning Commission took the following action at a Special Meeting held on March 24, 2025:

ZSpP25-001. Pettipaug Avenue, map 10, lot 18. Owners and Applicants: James & Margaret Wade. Special Permit / Coastal Site Plan application to construct new seawall. Approved with stipulations.

Dated at Borough of Fenwick, Connecticut this 25th day of March, 2025.

Charles M. Chadwick, Chairman Planning & Zoning Commission

Brian Walls: Falling Into Henry Carter Hull Library

Continued from page 2

However, after a while, Brian was ready for something new.

“I just fell into it. Eventually, during that time, I took on more and more of a role and I realized that to go further I needed to pursue my master’s,” says Brian.

For Brian, the best part of working in the library is making new acquaintances.

“You get a lot of regulars at a library. So, you get to know people not just on a customer service level, but a little bit more. It’s an enriching part of the job,” Brian says.

As for the hardest part of the job, Brian admits that it can be difficult to make every project he wants to pursue become a reality.

“We can’t do everything we want to do at

Come for the Challenge: Trivia Night

the library. Whether its for budgetary or manpower reasons, we do sometimes have to say no,” Brian admits.

Brian grew up in Hamden and now lives in Branford. In his spare time, he can be found hiking, screening movies, and, up until recently, skateboarding.

“I’ve done that less as I’ve gotten a little older and a little more fragile, but there’s probably not too many librarians who skateboard,” Brian jokes.

While he’s only been at the Henry Carter Hull Library for about a month, Brian is already quite fond of the Clinton community.

“I’ve had a lot of people already come in and introduce themselves and welcome me,” Brian says. “I’ve already met a lot of great people here.”

Come for a game of trivia on the third Tuesday of the month through July 8 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Join in the fun and show off your knowledge on everything from movies to history to nature. For more information, contact 860-669-2342 or email sudie@hchlibrary.org.

Continued from page 10

praised attributes such as “his intelligence, integrity, exacting standards, work ethic,” and his “administrative acumen.”

Speaking at the March 27 meeting, Fortuna commented on the PERF report’s release.

“I didn’t know what it would say or what would be in it. It says some positive things and a lot of negative things,” Fortuna said.

Years of Service

Spera’s tenure with the department was certainly an eventful one. The press release from the town noted he first began his association with the department when he was a fifth grader and was washing and cleaning the department’s vehicles. After volunteering as a dispatcher, he became a patrolman in 1995 and worked his way up to eventually becoming the youngest police chief in Connecticut at age 34 in 2009.

“Spera is credited with much during his tenure as chief, such as modernizing Old Saybrook’s Police Force, enhancing police officer safety, overseeing the construction of two police facilities, enhancing the EMS First Responder and School Safety Programs, obtaining national accreditation for the Emergency Communications Center, his leadership during the COVID-19 Pandemic Response and Recovery, and most recently leading the multiyear effort for the Department of Police Services to attain Tier III Accreditation with the State of Connecticut, Police Officer’s Standards and Training Council years before its statutory requirement,” the press release said.

In the press release on March 25, Fortuna complimented Spera for his service.

”I would like to congratulate Chief Michael Spera on his retirement. There have been few more dedicated to our town’s safety, particularly with respect to our school children. His leadership during tropical storms, snow emergencies, and, most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has been exceptional. The entire Board of Selectmen wishes Chief Spera and his family well as he begins the next chapter of his career.”

In the same press release, Spera also was quoted, saying, ”Serving my hometown of Old Saybrook as both a law enforcement officer and police chief has been the honor of a lifetime. I have so many people to thank for their support, guidance, and assistance that have helped yield a very successful career and police department. At the top of that list are the dedicated men and women of the Department of Police Services, the three leaders who have served as my second in command during my tenure as chief, many community members and businesses that have partnered with me, town leaders, and most importantly my family - my amazing children, Kendall and Kaden, and my incredible and extremely supportive best friend and wife, Heather.”

“I simply could not have done it without their unwavering support and unconditional love. I look forward to starting my next chapter with them by my side. I truly love the Town of Old Saybrook and the Old Saybrook Police Department. I wish the town, the department, and its personnel the best of luck and tremendous future success,” the statement continued.

Town Drops Investigations Into Police Chief

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer OLD SAYBROOK

The Town of Old Saybrook will drop any investigations into alleged wrongdoing by Police Chief Michael Spera after he announced his retirement in late March. First Selectman Carl Fortuna defended the decision to negotiate a retirement with the chief on financial grounds.

On March 25, Spera announced he would be retiring form his position after 16 years on the job. On March 27, the Board of Selectmen agreed to a retirement plan that will see the chief relieved of his duties on April 11 but formally retiring in September.

Spera had become a subject of interest in town and in statewide media in January following the release of a yearlong study by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) that concluded employees were leaving the Old Saybrook Police Department primarily due to an “unpleasant” culture. The report was highly critical of Spera at times and made accusations that town leaders called “troublesome” and pledged to fix.

Following the report’s release, two different lawyers were hired to advise the town regarding allegations in the PERF report concerning Spera. Attorney Jon Berchem from the firm Berchem and Moses was hired to look into whether or

not Spera’s consulting work with Maverick Motor Group is a conflict of interest, and attorney Eric Daigle was hired to investigate claims of misconduct committed by Spera.

However, under the separation agreement, the town agreed to drop these investigations. The town agreed not to pursue “…any investigations or further proceedings related to the concerns and conclusions related to the employee in the PERF report dated Jan. 8, 2025,” the agreement stated in part.

“We have no plans to incur any more legal costs with either of those attorneys,” Fortuna said following the March 27 meeting. Fortuna said that there are two open internal investigations that Spera is tangentially related to that the town will work to close prior to Spera’s September formal retirement.

In the weeks after the release of the PERF report some citizens, and Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee, publicly called for Spera to resign or for the police commission to fire him.

Following the meeting on March 27, Fortuna defended the decision to negotiate a retirement with Spera as the most financially prudent move and one that saved aggravation on all sides.

For starters, Fortuna said the town would have had to continue paying lawyers to investigate if Spera’s outside employment was a contract violation or

The Clinton Arbor Garden Club is offering the Lucy Rathbone Elliot Memorial Scholarship of $1,500 to a graduating senior who is a resident of Clinton.

To be eligible, applicants must be planning to attend a two- to four-year college degree program at an accredited school and pursuing a degree in the field of environmental science. Acceptable programs are conservation, environmental control, forestry, floriculture, horticulture, botany, agronomy, city planning, land management, landscape design, plant pathology, zoology, or any other related field of study. Application forms are available at the guidance department of schools. For more information or to obtain an application form, email Susan Schreck at suebschreck@gmail.com.

Want Help to Get into Art School?

Spectrum Gallery is hosting a new program, Portfolio Development for Art Schools, to help young artists get accepted into their chosen art school. During these one-on-one, two-hour sessions, participants and their art instructor will investigate what each student’s specific art schools are looking for and how to achieve an art portfolio which will increase their chances of admission. The program helps clarify the requirements for the schools of interest, create the assignments accordingly, and review and improve participant skills like shading, coloring, composition, and basic design. The program takes place at Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. For more information or to register, email barbara@spectrumartgallery.org or visit spectrumartgallery.org.

conflict of interest and to conduct an internal affairs investigation. Lawyers would then be needed to conduct a police commission hearing. After that hearing, if the commission voted to suspend or terminate Spera, the matter would likely go to arbitration.

“Easily upwards of $200,000 in costs for our attorney, especially if we lost in arbitration, where we would have to pay the chief’s attorney fees in addition to ours,” Fortuna said.

Fortuna also explained that the entire process would likely take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to play out.

“We would still be paying the chief his salary and stipends because he would be on administrative suspension. We would also be paying an interim chief. The costs in this scenario begin at $300,000 and could get to $500,000 with ease,” Fortuna said.

Besides the financial predicament, Fortuna said other factors could confound the matter. For instance, Fortuna pointed out that there would be a municipal election in the middle of the process, which could complicate matters, not to mention the headache that comes with scheduling each meeting between volunteers, employees, lawyers, and potential witnesses.

Then, of course, Fortuna said there’s a chance the town will lose arbitration.

“If we lose arbitration, the chief would

Singers Wanted for Shoreline Soul

still be the chief, probably two years down the line.”

On top of everything, Fortuna said the negative attention would be damaging to the town as a whole.

“The town would remain under a cloud, and the police officers in the department would suffer along with the town’s reputation,” Fortuna said.

Fortuna encouraged anyone with questions about the chief’s retirement to reach out to him in person, even if they disagree with him.

“I’m happy to discuss it in my office, not on Facebook,” Fortuna said during the meeting.

Next Steps

Fortuna said the town and Police Commission will need to now turn their attention to hiring a new chief. Fortuna said the commission is set to meet on March 31 (after press time for this article) to discuss the next steps.

Fortuna said he is already soliciting search firms to help with the project and that he anticipates the town selecting the firm soon.

“The town’s people deserve and will get an open and transparent opportunity to choose their next chief; there needs to be an independent body involved to assist the police commission,” Fortuna told the .

Harbor News

Shoreline Soul welcomes singers for an uplifting community choral gospel workshop. Led by professional singer Angela Clemmons, this five-week workshop will culminate in a concert on Sunday, June 8. All sessions are upbeat, engaging, and designed for singers of all levels. There is no sheet music—songs are taught by ear, and practice recordings will be provided. The five sessions take place from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. on Mondays, April 7, April 21, April 28, May 5, and May 19. The concert, which is free and open to the public, will be on Sunday, June 8, at 3 p.m., with a preconcert rehearsal at 1:15 p.m. The workshop and concert will take place at the First Congregational Church, 122 Broad Street, Guilford. The workshop registration fee is $95. Space is limited. Early registration is encouraged, but registration is only complete after payment has been received. Some scholarships are available. Although the workshop is primarily for adults, youth who are able to follow a lyric sheet are welcome to participate. For more information, contact 203-619-1415 or shorelinesoul@gmail.com.

Collection of Household Hazardous Waste

The Lower Connecticut River Council of Governments announces a satellite collection of household hazardous waste on Saturday, April 19, at the Clinton Public Works Garage, 117 Nod Road, and on Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Deep River Town Garage, 206 Winthrop Road (Route 80). The collection runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is open to residents in the RiverCOG region towns of Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Lyme, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland, and Westbrook. For more information, contact RiverCOG at 860-581-8554 or jehlemeyer@rivercog.org.

Lucy Rathbone Elliot Memorial Scholarship

By Maria Cipriano

Sports Reporter

Morgan Indoor Track Teams Saw Great Gains This Winter

For the Morgan boys’ and girls’ indoor track teams, this past winter campaign was one full of growth and success for many athletes. With a roster sporting a mix of veterans and athletes newer to the sport, many of them made strides they can be proud of.

At the Shoreline Athletic Conference (SLC) Championship on Feb. 7, the boys placed eighth out of 12 with a team score of 24.5 points, while the girls claimed a 10th-place finish out of 11 total teams with 14 points. Head Coach Justin Esposito, who has been at the helm for the past two years, was proud of the efforts displayed on the track and the way that the athletes continued to show great gains day after day.

“The season went well overall, with many of our freshmen making great advances in times and many of our seniors building on their experience to repeatedly make it into the top 10 of their events in the Shoreline meets,” said Esposito. “We participated in six total meets and as individuals were able to improve for the most part each time.”

In that conference championship meet, the Huskies had several standouts that solidified their spot among the best that the Shoreline has to offer.

“We had numerous athletes qualify for Shorelines, roughly eight medal at Shorelines, and six who qualified for states as well, and many of our athletes [personal record] PRd and finished in the top 10,” said Esposito. “Mike Fusco finished sixth overall in the 55 meters and fifth overall in the 300, Mike Bowker [freshman] set a new PR for himself in the 1600m with a final time of 4:55, finishing ninth overall. Isabella Santello [freshman, 55 dash, 4x200, 300m] finished

fourth overall in the 55m and 300m, and Kamilla Barros [freshman, 55 dash, long jump, 4x200] finished ninth overall in the 55m.”

Additionally, the boys’ 4x200 relay team, comprised of Mike Derenzo (junior, 55 meters), Fusco (senior), Mark Rodriguez, and Aidan Campion (long jump) finished fourth overall. The girls’ 4x200 team of Barros, Santello, Mia Zhiminaicela (freshman), and Rachel Spaziano (senior, 55 meters) placed fifth overall. Mason Jakober (senior, shot put) finished 13th overall throwing 34’5, which was a new PR for him in the event.

Morgan next set its sights on the Class S State Championship that took place on Feb. 15. Although the Huskies didn’t walk away with a top score on the day, the athletes that raced still gave it their all. Fusco placed 12th overall in the 300m, and Bowker placed 17th overall in the 1600m. Campion, Rodriguez, Barros, and Santello also qualified for the state championship.

“Unfortunately, no one placed in the top during the state meet, as the competition was much more varied,” said Esposito. “It was also difficult, as we faced schools from across the state in Class S that we had previously not faced in our Shoreline Conference, but they all gave a great effort.”

Leading the charge for the Huskies this campaign were senior captains Natalie Estabrook (1600m), Aaron Kennedy (long jump), Gabriella Navarra, and Campion. The group displayed many qualities that a good leader should have, including being strong mentors for their underclass and less experienced peers.

“Unfortunately, Gabriella had knee surgery early on and missed

most of the season but still attended when she could to support her team,” said Esposito. “Natalie, Aidan, and Aaron all led in various ways, from leading in stretches and workouts to helping guide some of the younger or newer athletes through some of the training for the events. We had a total of 27 athletes, 11 returning. Many of the returning athletes helped guide the newer athletes at practices by showing them techniques, and at meets by walking them through the process to check-in for events.”

As the Huskies navigated through a tough winter in terms of weather conditions, the athletes remained adaptable and never wavered from continuing to reach both personal and team goals.

“There were no real major challenges this year as far as injuries or unforeseen circumstances other than dealing with a cold winter, forcing much of our training indoors, but the kids adapted to that very well,” said Esposito. “These athletes improved immensely from the beginning of the season and exceeded expectations by PRing in most of the events that they medaled in.”

This spring, Morgan will graduate 10 seniors, with hopes of the rest of the team returning next winter. Esposito is excited to see the athletes continue to build on their performances from this year and gain even more experience.

“Next season, I’m looking forward to continuing with a very strong sophomore class and building off the success of this season,” said Esposito. “My assistant coach will have the head coaching job in the spring for track, so having that continuity will be good as well.”

Esposito is assisted by Tone Serrano.

The Huskies indoor track team is comprised of seniors Campion, Estabrook, Fusco, Jakober, Kennedy, Josh Nobitz (shot put), Thomas O’Rourke (shot put), Rowan Quinn (shot put), Spaziano, and Rodriguez; juniors Derenzo, Andrew Hidalgo (55m, 4x400), Owen Lombardi (1600m), Jake Lichack (shot put), Avery

Morello (600m), and Declan Shortt (55m); sophomores Gavin Clow (55m) and Luke Rodriguez (shot put); and freshmen Kenneth Antonucci (55m, 4x400), Barros, Bowker, Cameron Milas (55m), Santello, Cole Rockholz (55m), Dylan Yampis, and Zhiminaicela, (55m, 4x400).

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Natalie Estabrook served as a senior captain this winter for the Morgan indoor track team, and she stayed competitive all season long.

Hanover Closes Out Lifetime of Basketball as Senior with Old Saybrook

By Jenn McCulloch

Special to the Harbor News

Old Saybrook’s Sam Hanover started playing basketball when she was just seven years old with the town’s park and recreation program. Her love for the sport grew over the years, and she joined an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team and played throughout her time at Old Saybrook Middle School and Old Saybrook High School.

After nearly a lifetime on the court, Sam recently played her final organized basketball game, as the Rams completed her senior season in the second round of the state tournament. Old Saybrook also qualified for the Shoreline Conference Tournament, falling in the first round.

“Out of all four of my high school seasons, this was easily my favorite because our team had a really strong connection,” says Sam. “I was happy to see us get as far as we did, and I’m proud of the work we did.”

Sam completed her time with Old Saybrook High School basketball alongside four fellow seniors — captains Kylie Lake and Breleigh Cooke, and Ellie Pennington and Lauren Kapp. She not only played with them during her time with the Rams, but for most of her early career as well.

“We grew up together, were there for each other, and helped each other improve as players and people for so long, so knowing that that part of our relationship was coming to an end was really emotional,” says Sam. “Before it got close, I wasn’t really expecting to be upset about it being my senior year because baseball is an insanely long season, but when our final game ended, I was hit with a wave of emotion. It sunk in that I was never going to play an organized basketball game again, and it was really sad.”

In addition to getting to play alongside her fellow seniors, what also made this season special for Sam was playing with her little sister, Mia, who was a freshman on the team this season. While both played basketball growing up, because Mia was so much younger, they never had

Sports Person Week of the

the opportunity to be on the same team.

Basketball is definitely a staple in the Hanover family, and Mia isn’t the only one in the family that Sam has had time on the court with. Ever since she started playing, her dad coached her team. He started by coaching the park and rec team and moved on to coach her travel team. He also was the middle school coach. Sam is also grateful to her mom, who has never missed a game.

“He basically coached me from ages 7 to 13, and I was happy to play for him all those years,” says Sam. “He’s always been my biggest supporter. He’s never been afraid to challenge me and has always pushed me harder than everyone else. It made me respect him and him respect me, and we made so many memories. My whole family has always been very involved. My mom was always a great supporter, and basketball was a great way to connect with family and friends and deepen my bonds with them.”

When Sam got to high school, she was no longer coached by her dad, though he was still at every game cheering her on from the sidelines and talking about her game afterwards. Sam built relationships with her high school coaches, who saw how much she contributed to the team. Sam was proud to be chosen for the Coaches Award both her sophomore and junior year.

Old Saybrook girls’ basketball Head Coach Steve Woods has seen Sam develop as a player throughout her four years with the Rams’ basketball team, culminating in her best play senior year as a starter at power forward. As a junior, he also saw her contribute in big ways to the team, particularly in rebounding, defending in the paint, and good interior play offensively.

“Samantha flew under the radar in many ways while help-

ing the offense get the ball to our dominating inside post player Kylie Lake, and to our ball facilitator and talented three-point shooter•and all-around offensive star•Breleigh Cooke,” says Woods. “Sam always performed best in clutch situations, including big baskets in our comeback tournament•win vs. Housatonic. She would be the first person to say that she didn’t shoot much, but I can’t remember many of Sam’s made shots that weren’t real clutch and difference makers. She also did a great job boxing out and rebounding and defended very well•on opponents who were usually bigger and stronger than she. Sam was also dependable to get the ball to open teammates on good interior passing or to open perimeter players. Her legacy will be that as a teammate who was clutch when needed•the most and quietly played with poise, and who had a collective calming effect on the team her senior year.”

While basketball has been a key part of Sam’s life since she was young, she discovered a passion for a new sport when she got to high school as well. She decided to join the track team as a freshman and learned to compete in the long jump, triple jump, and high jump. She credits her coaches as well as the upperclassmen during her freshman year for helping her learn the techniques.

Sam enjoyed all three of the events, though was also forced to give up the high jump after she sprained her back during her sophomore basketball season. She has found the most success with the triple jump, which has proven to be her favorite event.

“Even though I’d never done it before, I instantly loved it,” says Sam. “Triple jump is a daunting event that confuses a lot of people. I liked being able to master something that people don’t really understand.”

Sam has qualified for states in the triple jump every season since her freshman year, and she placed fifth in Shorelines last year. Heading into her senior season, Sam not only hopes to repeat qualifying for states, but she wants to finish in the top

three in Shorelines and improve her triple jump from 32-0 to the 33-0 to 34-0 range.

“Gaining a foot or two is definitely a tough thing to do,” says Sam. “Basketball is definitely more of a team sport where I feel motivated by my peers to improve and work hard, but with track, it is a lot more internal motivation. I’m excited to get back out there and get back into the swing of things.”

Looking beyond graduation, Sam knows that she wants to study psychology in college with a goal of becoming a clinical psychiatrist. Though she hasn’t made a firm decision yet, her top two choices are University of North Carolina - Wilmington and James Madison University in Virginia.

“I’m interested in helping people and how the brain works,” says Sam. “I want to be able to find the best ways to help people live their lives to the absolute fullest.”

In addition to being involved in athletics, Sam is active in her school and in her community. At Old Saybrook High School, she is a member of the National Honor Society, Yearbook, and Art Club. Sam also spends time volunteering with Old Saybrook Lions Club. In her free time, she enjoys painting.

“It’s hard sometimes to balance everything, but I prioritize the things I need to do over the things I want to do,” says Sam. “I try to make time for myself in doing something I enjoy with any time that is left over.”

Photo courtesy of Sam Hanover

Sam Hanover recently finished her final season with Old Saybrook girls’ basketball and is preparing for outdoor track this spring.

Schedules

MORGAN

Saturday, April 5: at Cromwell at 11 a.m.

Monday, April 7: at Valley Regional/Westbrook at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: vs. North Branford at 3:45 p.m.

Girls’ Lacrosse

Saturday, April 5: at Valley Regional at 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday, April 8: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Boys’ Tennis

Saturday, April 5: at East Hampton at 11 a.m.

Monday, April 7: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.

Madison Hoop Dreams April Vacation Basketball Camp

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Saturday, April 5: at Cromwell at 2:30 p.m.

Monday, April 7: at Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: vs. North Branford at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: vs. Westbrook at 6 p.m.

Lacrosse

Saturday, April 5: vs. Hall at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, April 8: vs. Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m.

Thursday, April 10: at North Branford at 4 p.m.

OLD SAYBROOK

Wednesday, April 9: at Valley Regional w/ Westbrook at 3:30 p.m.

Boys’ Lacrosse

Saturday, April 5: at Foran at 10 a.m. (scrimmage)

Tuesday, April 8: vs. North Branford at 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 10: vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 5: vs. East Hampton at 11 a.m.

Monday, April 7: vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: at Westbrook at 3:45 p.m.

Girls’ Tennis Golf

Wednesday, April 9: vs. East Lyme at 3 p.m.

Thursday, April 10: at Daniel Hand at 2:30 p.m.

Madison Hoop Dreams (MHD) is pleased to announce that it will hold an April vacation basketball camp from Tuesday, April 15 to Friday, April 18 at Haddam-Killingworth Middle School (451 Route 81 in Killingworth). If your son or daughter, in grades 3 to 8, loves basketball, this is a great opportunity for them to improve their skills and use them in daily competition. There are three leagues to create grade-appropriate competition, and the teams are balanced to keep the players excited. Last year, there were 69 campers that attended, and the capacity is 80. People are advised to register early to ensure they have a spot.

Camp is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day,

and the cost is $60 per day. However, the cost is $200 for the four-day week. If five or more players attend from one team, the cost is $175 each for the four days. If finances are too tight, please call or text Coach Bill Barker to request financial aid. Payment plans are also available. Please go to www.madisonhoop dreams.com for more information and to register. While on the site, check out the School of Basketball clinics offered in March, April, and May on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. In addition, check out the six weeks of summer camp as well, and register for one or more weeks. If you have any questions, please call or text Barker at 203-494-6905, or email him at wab6933@gmail.com.

Monday, April 7: at Westbrook at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: vs. Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 5: at Cromwell at 11 a.m.

Monday, April 7: vs. Westbrook at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 9: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Deep River Horseshoe League Ready to Celebrate its 70th Season

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Tuesday, April 8: at North Branford at 4 p.m.

Girls’ Lacrosse Boys’ Tennis

Saturday, April 5: vs. Cromwell at 10 a.m. Outdoor Track

Monday, April 7: at Portland at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 9: vs. Hale Ray at 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 10: at Haddam-Killingworth at 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 5: vs. Whitney Tech at 1 p.m.

Monday, April 7: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: at Coginchaug at 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 5: vs. Whitney Tech at 1 p.m.

Monday, April 7: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: at Coginchaug at 4 p.m.

Saturday, April 5: vs. East Hampton at 10:30 a.m.

Monday, April 7: vs. Morgan at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, April 7: vs. Old Saybrook/Portland at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: at Morgan at 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 5: at Coginchaug at 11 a.m.

Monday, April 7: at Old Saybrook at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: vs. Morgan at 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, April 9: at Valley Regional w/ Old Saybrook at 3:30 p.m.

The Deep River Horseshoe League (DRHL) begins its 70th season this year. The DRHL will host league play at 5 p.m. every Thursday beginning on Thursday, April 24 at Deep River’s “unofficial town green” on Main Street adjacent to the First Congregational Church. The league is open for men and women of all ages.

The DRHL has 18 teams that compete on nine pits. Each team features three players from each of the A, B, and C Divisions, and they play six matches per week. The objective is to toss the shoe around or within six inches of a metal stake from 40

feet away. Putting the shoe around the stake (ringer) is worth three points, and getting it within six inches is worth one point. Men 70 years old and women are allowed to toss from a distance of 30 feet. Each game consists of 12 innings, after which the scores are totaled at the end. Scoring is done using a handicap system. The season ends in the third week of August, with the top eight teams competing for the league championship. Anyone who is interested in playing in the DRHL this year or would like more information can visit www.deepriverhorseshoes.com/ contacts.

Saturday, April 5: at Coginchaug at 1 p.m.

WESTBROOK

April 3 to April 9

Westbrook Public Schools Hosts First Annual

Inter-District Second to 12th Grade Basketball Tournament

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

On March 20, Westbrook Public Schools hosted the highly anticipated First Annual Westbrook Public Schools Inter-District Second to 12th Grade Basketball Tournament. The event brought together athletes from Daisy Ingraham, Westbrook Middle School, and Westbrook High School Unified Sports teams to compete in a series of exciting eight-minute basketball games.The tournament featured teams comprised of students ranging from second to 12th grade, alongside their dedicated partners. Coaches from each school worked together to create a welcoming team-building experience for all participants. The Daisy Ingraham coaches were Dan Jennings and Meridith Keller; Westbrook Middle School coaches included Jennings and Nicole Archambault; and Westbrook High School coaches were Kara Lesandrine and Nikki Esposito.

“This event showcased the true spirit of unity and teamwork,” said Lesandrine, head coach at Westbrook High School. “Seeing all the athletes, regardless of age or ability, come together and support one another was truly inspiring. Everyone brought their best to the court, and the energy was contagious.”

The games emphasized sportsmanship and teamwork while also promoting physical activity and community engagement.

Athletes, their partners, and coaches worked together, fostering a spirit of collaboration and creating lasting memories during the exciting hour of friendly competition.

“We are incredibly proud of all the athletes who participated in this event. It was a wonderful opportunity to bring together our district’s students across multiple grade levels and create a space where everyone could shine,” said Caitlin Eichler, Director of Athletics for Westbrook Public Schools. “This tournament is just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing to provide athletic opportunities for all our students.”

As a token of appreciation for their hard work, all athletes were awarded medals at the conclusion of the event. The celebration continued with a pizza party generously provided by the Westbrook Athletic Boosters, who helped ensure the event was a success.

“We are so grateful to the Westbrook Athletic Boosters for their support and generosity,” said Jennings, coach at Daisy Ingraham and Westbrook Middle School. “Their contribution allowed us to celebrate the athletes’ efforts and finish the event on a high note with pizza and camaraderie.”

The First Annual Westbrook Public Schools Inter-District Second to 12th Grade Basketball Tournament proved to be a memorable event, fostering teamwork, community, and sportsmanship.

Photo courtesy of Caitlin Eichler

Pictured are the athletes who competed in the First Annual Westbrook Public Schools Inter-District Second to 12th Grade Basketball Tournament on March 20.

Photo courtesy of Caitlin Eichler

The First Annual Westbrook Public Schools Inter-District Second to 12th Grade Basketball Tournament was a huge success, bringing together athletes from three different Unified Sports teams for a day of team-building and fun competition.

Fun By The Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

How It Works:

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of April 3 - April 9

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

This week you are going to take action on a project that has been on your mind for awhile, Aries. Trust your instincts, but make sure you are not moving too fast.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

This week brings an opportunity for intellectual pursuits, Taurus. You might think to enroll in a higher education class or a take a course on a specific hobby that has been on your mind.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Partnerships are key right now, Gemini. You might want to pursue new professional relationships. Embrace your ability and willingness to adapt and facilitate change.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

You need to take care of your body and mind, Cancer. Now is as good a time as any to begin this pursuit. Even small adjustments can lead to longterm health benefits.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, this is your week to look into matters of self-expression and creativity. Pour your energy into anything that gets you excited. Your enthusiasm may draw others in as well.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, home life takes center stage this week, and you might feel a strong desire to nurture your space. Decluttering and organizing could bring more harmony to your home.

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you are able to express your thoughts with clarity and charm, which is why personal relationships often come easy to you. This week you may use this superpower to make friends.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

You may soon find yourself reevaluating how you spend your money or what you value most in life, Scorpio. This is a good time to check financial goals and adjust them.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

There is a sense of fresh energy surrounding you this week, Sagittarius. If you have been putting off something, now is the time to take the leap.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, focus on rest and relaxation in the days ahead. You have been putting in a lot of work lately and now is a time to focus on your inner self and recharge.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Collaborations with others could prove fruitful this week, Aquarius. Don’t hesitate to lean on your social network when you need to get something done.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

You might be presented with a way to take your professional life to the next level, Pisces. Strategize about how to move forward in this regard, and think through all decisions.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 3

Paris Jackson, Model (27)

APRIL 4

Robert Downey, Jr., Actor (60) APRIL 5

Lily James, Actress (36) APRIL 6

Candace Cameron-Bure, Actress (49)

APRIL 7

Francis Ford Coppola, Director (86) APRIL 8

Skai Jackson, Actress (23) APRIL 9

Elle Fanning, Actress (27)

CLUES ACROSS

1. Narrow piece of wood

5. African desert

11. Waxy covering on birds’ beaks

12. Sour

16. Infrequent

17. Former AL MVP Vaughn

18. Policemen wear one

19. Out of the question

24. Used to chop

25. Symptoms

26. Not moving

27. Folk singer DiFranco

28. Comedian Armisen

29. Quantitative fact

30. Incline from vertical

31. Scottish musician

33. Rooney and Kate are two

34. Positioned

38. A very short time

39. Tropical American shrubs

40. Yemen capital

43. Spanish municipality

44. Medical professionals

45. Fibrous material

49. Confined condition (abbr.)

50. Without covering

51. “Mad Men” honcho Don

53. Hockey position

54. Taste property

56. Fertile spots in a desert

58. They precede C

59. “Requiem for a Dream” actor Jared

60. Try a criminal case

63. Liberal rights organization

64. Spoke

65. Insect repellent

CLUES DOWN

1. Unshaven facial hair

2. More thin

3. Show up

4. Seethed

5. Ancient Greek city

6. Poisonous plant

7. Hello

8. College sports official

9. Monetary unit of Russia

10. Wings

13. Take too much of a substance

14. A citizen of Uganda

15. Most appealing

20. Atomic #18

21. Global investment bank (abbr.)

22. Jewish calendar month

23. Popular sandwich

27. Swiss river

29. Incorrect letters

30. Popular entree

31. Foot (Latin)

32. A driver’s license is one form

33. Extinct flightless bird

34. Appetizer

35. After battles

36. It neutralizes alkalis

37. Beverage container

38. Partner to “Pa”

40. Gray American rail

41. Salt of acetic acid

42. Canadian province

44. Dish made with lentils

45. Narrative poem of popular origin

46. For each one

47. Come to terms

48. Test

50. More dishonorable

51. Unit of loudness

52. The Ocean State

54. Monetary unit in Mexico

55. Lying down

57. Thus

61. Where LA is located

62. Western State

Word Search

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

DISTRACTED WORD SEARCH

ACTIVITY ATTENTION COGNITIVE CRASH DANGEROUS DISTRACTED DRIVER DROWSY EATING HIGHWAY INJURY MANUAL NOISY

PASSENGER

RADIO

READING

SAFETY SPEED

TALKING

TEXTING

VEHICLE VISUAL

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for March 27, 2025: EQUITY

Word Search solution for March 27, 2025

I found a beautiful yellow feather. Larger than the finches that populate my yard, I took it as a sign from my husband that he was with me. His favorite color was yellow.

1-2-3-4 Spring!

By Liz Egan

Spring is a time of preparation and transformation. As the weather warms and the days grow a bit longer, I try to spend more time outdoors, removing the leaves and debris from a windy winter. Small daffodil shoots have emerged from the soil. Snowdrops, the first blooms of spring. A smattering of crocus among the greening myrtles.

The work of spring brings satisfaction and beauty. Often, my enthusiasm to complete the many chores required has physical consequences for this aging body. This year, I have decided to start early and set smaller goals for each day’s yard work. I choose a single flower bed or patch of lawn or simply blow off the patio, deck, or driveway. Seeing the results is very satisfying.

My home in Clinton was purchased in 2004 “as is.” In addition to the many renovations my husband and I made inside the house, we improved the property. My hus-

band Paul loved the outdoors. He would stay outside working in the yard until dark on many days. His was the lawn, trees, and perimeter beds. My purview was the flower beds. In his honor, I chose to clean, thatch, and reseed the 20’ x 30’ area that was his garden this past weekend. Day one - picking up the many fallen twigs and debris, then raking. Day two –thatching and stiff raking to break up the soil. Day three – seeding. The progress I made each day was rewarded with a daylong rain. Combining this endeavor with raking off a small flower bed or a section of a larger bed provided me with the “I can do this” attitude I needed.

So much of spring is awareness. The rain, combined with the increased warmth of the sun, transforms the landscape. I see a hint of green in my lawn and notice the budding trees as well as the new growth at the base of many small shrubs. Removing the leaves from the base of the shrubs gives them the air they need to blossom again. One hour a day, one day at a time, I do my part to help the

My friend Bev often makes her family’s recipe for 1-2-3-4 cake. She grew up having it for all occasions. When she contributed it to a recent dinner party, I was reminded of the Hurry Up Cake my mother used to make.

flora and fauna I am charged with thrive. recipe for 1-2-3-4 cake. She grew up having it for all occasions. When she contributed it to a recent dinner party, I was reminded of the Hurry Up Cake my mother used to make. This easy recipe

cious cake. Served with fruit and whipped cream, it is a no-fail dessert. I love the way baking and gardening are metaphorically

See 1-2-3-4 Spring page 28

Photo by Liz Egan

Photo by Liz Egan

Photo by Liz Egan

Snowdrops, the first blooms of spring.

A smattering of crocus among the greening myrtles.

Special to Living

Photo by Liz Egan

Living Hacks: Tips to Grow a Green Thumb

Maria Caulfield

Living Editor

I love plants. I kill plants. No two sentences written on this paper are more antithetical.

But I have to admit that I’m a notorious plant killer—a walking, talking Ortho weed killer, but only for plants. Not the good kind of garden killer.

Unfortunately, I have three favorite plants, all very tough to keep alive: tulips, orchids, and bonsais.

Tulips bloom only a few weeks in spring before they wilt. You need to wait until the following year for any hope to see them again.

Orchids are beautiful exotic plants, but I just can’t seem to get them to bloom again once the flowers fall off the stems. I’ve tried small humidifiers, encased shelters, orchid fertilizers, and all the tips I could find on YouTube. I’ve even talked to them, pleading for them to bloom. No dice.

And bonsais are just in a class all their own. On one recent Christmas, I received a beautiful bonsai from an uncle who told me to put it outside for a bit of time each day. I followed his advice and placed it on my deck—in the middle of February.

I guess he meant when the weather was nicer. Needless to say, what happened to that poor, hapless bonsai.

I’m so bad at gardening that I once killed a hard-to-kill lucky bamboo plant. My husband called it “the unlucky lucky bamboo plant.”

So, I’m probably the last person on Earth with any authority to give any kind of gardening hacks.

But because it’s spring, I sought the help of members of local garden clubs to offer Living hacks to make gardening a little more successful—maybe even for hopeless gardeners like me.

Garden tools should be kept clean to keep plants healthy. Use a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) to wipe blades and metal parts of your tools to kill bacteria and fungi. Clean your pruners after using on each plant to prevent the spread of disease between plants.

Eliminate weeds between pavers by boiling water; it’s an organic, nontoxic way to kill small weeds between pavers. It is not necessary to poison your soil with toxic chemical weedkillers. Be careful not to splash good plants nearby.

Use a natural remedy for powdery mildew on plants by mixing 1 tablespoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon liquid Dawn soap, and 1 gallon water and placing the

solution in a sprayer bottle. Use this spray late in the day when the air is still (no breeze) and after the pollinators are gone for the day.

Tips From Guilford Garden Club

Save your eggshells. Crush them in a paper bag or between two sheets of wax paper, or blend them even finer in your food processor. Add them to any seedlings or transplanted plants. This source of calcium is good for houseplants, too. Add a spoonful to the soil two to four times a year. Crushed crab shells, rich in calcium and chitin, boost the calcium in the soil and keep tomatoes from getting blossom end rot.

Save your coffee grounds to spread on the soil around acid-loving plants, such as azaleas, conifers, evergreens, laurels, and rhododendrons. Left on the soil surface, it

may also provide a barrier to slugs and snails.

Grow garlic or chives among roses and flowering shrubs to keep Japanese beetles away. They don’t take up much space, add iodine to the soil, and are a good anti-fungal agent.

Keep a roll of Velcro tape and a pair of scissors in your garden tool carry-all. You can cut a strip of Velcro to safely tie up or hold back unruly vines and shrubs during the growing season.

Do you have powdery mildew or black spots on plants, especially on your roses? Try this easy spray: Mix two 325 mg. tablets of uncoated aspirin per quart of water and ¼ teaspoon liquid dish soap. Shake well and apply as a spray in the morning before the sun gets too high.

For spot applications, spray white vinegar on weeds to kill them.

The best tip for healthy plants is to add compost to your soil. If you have an aged

compost pile that you have started using, don’t forget to keep it covered with a tarp so the nutrients will be available wherever you place it and they don’t leech into the soil right beneath the pile during rains.

Sprinkling baby powder on veggie seedlings may deter rabbits, giving the seedlings a chance to grow strong.

If you don’t want to use a DDT-containing spray to keep away bugs while you garden, try crushing or rubbing the leaves of an aromatic plant on your skin and scalp. You can try sweet basil or any of the mints, including catmint or lemon balm.

One last piece of gardening advice, this time from this humble writer: If you’re a hopeless gardener but want to grow a green thumb, reach out to your local garden club. Members help the community in many ways and are always willing to assist individual gardeners blossom on their own.

Tips from the Garden Club of Madison

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Garden Club

For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.

THURSDAY, APRIL 3

Opening Day for Hank Williams: Lost Highway

: 2 p.m. Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through Sunday, April 27. Other showtimes available. For info, call 860767-7318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org.

Transportation Options with River Valley Transit

: 2 to

3 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. River Valley Transit will discuss the details of XtraMile, a new, on-demand service that picks up and drops off riders anywhere in Madison and Guilford for $1.75 one way, and provide an overview of other transit options besides XtraMile that are available to Madison residents. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Small Business Sales Techniques

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Online event. Participants will learn how to listen to the needs of their customers, establish trust, make their pitch, and more. Presented by SCORE mentor Eric Munro. Free. Hosted by SCORE Eastern Connecticut. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct.

Wills vs. Trusts: Estate Planning Workshop

: 6 p.m. Via Zoom. Presented by Erin O. Duques, a partner at the law firm of Czepiga Daly Pope & Perri. Hosted by Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC), 96 Fair St., Guilford. For info, contact 203-458-6699 or info@womenandfamilylife.org, or visit womenandfamilylife.org.

Open Mic Night

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by Madison Poet Laurate Ed Lent. Sign-ups begin 5:45 p.m. The first 12 to sign up are guaranteed a spot. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Shoreline Sailing Club Meeting

: 7 p.m. Clark Memorial Field, 210 Elm St., Old Saybrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Cost: free for members and first-time guests, $10 for others. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

Concert by Donna the Bull

: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 4

Five Fridays Lenten Concert Series

• : 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features a performance on the church’s 1929 Möller pipe organ by Walden Moore, former director of music at Trinity Church in New Haven. Sponsored in part by the New London County Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Attendees listen in the sanctuary or on the Town Green as the music is broadcast through the church speakers. Third of five Fridays through April 18. Free and open to all. For info, call 203-245-2739, ext. 14, or visit fccmadison.org.

Popcorn Palooza: Family Movie

: 1 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to all. No registration needed. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

1-2-3-4 Spring!

Continued from page 26

entwined in how I live my life. Move a muscle, change a thought. To heal from a recent period of loneliness and despair, I did as my sister instructed and picked up sticks. After every storm, there are many sticks to pick up — the consequence of the gift of a beautiful yard with many trees. At the end of one such session,

I was headed indoors when I found a beautiful yellow feather. Larger than the finches that populate my yard, I took it as a sign from my husband that he was with me. His favorite color was yellow. In the many months since his passing, I have found feathers at significant milestones in my grief journey. I took a picture of the feather and texted my sister, Sheila. No sooner was I finished when I found

Calendar for the Week of April 3, 2025

Artist Reception: Michele F. Tycz

: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Masonicare at Chester Village West, 317 W. Main St. Free and open to the public. For info, call 860-531-1400.

27th Annual Wine/Beer Tasting and Silent Auction

: 6 to 9 p.m. Saybrook Point Resort and Marina, 2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. Features wine and craft beer tasting, hors d’oeuvres, music, an auction, and a raffle. Guest hosts: meteorologist Scot Haney and television host Nicole Nalepa. Presented by Old Saybrook Rotary Club. Tickets: $50 per person, must be 21 or older. Proceeds benefit the Rotary Club’s projects, including scholarships to graduating seniors from Lyme/Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook high schools. For info or tickets, visit osrotary.org.

: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 5

Concert by Kathleen Edwards Goodwin Gallop 5K

: 9 a.m. Kathleen E. Goodwin Elementary School, 80 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a 5K at 9 a.m. and a kids' run at 8:30 a.m. Arrive early to check in and get a bib. Cost: $30 for the 5K, free for the kids run. Discount for early signup. Service fees apply. The race starts and ends at Goodwin Elementary School and features a fast and flat course through the Old Saybrook shoreline. Hosted by the Kathleen E. Goodwin School Parent Teacher Association. Presented by Whelen Engineering. For info or to sign up, visit runsignup.com/goodwingallop5k.

See page 29

another, and then, looking down, found another. Hadn’t I just scoured the area picking up sticks?

Recently, I have become aware of how challenges have strengthened me. The care of my yard, as well as many trips to the Y, have made me physically stronger. Self-care, quiet reflection, a willingness to ask for help, and some much-needed rest have improved my outlook. Attention to

the wonder of nature, the joy of a child’s laughter, and spiritual guidance have buoyed my soul. The renewal of spring transforms for all parts of my life when I take a moment, step out of the distractions and busy-ness which occupy my mind, and notice the growth that surrounds and is within me.

Collaboration, Classics, and A Country Legend

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Hartford Partnership

Aisle ON THE

the audio-described performance is Saturday, May 10.

Iconic Country Singer

Hank Williams: Lost Highway!

Sweeney Todd A Chorus Line

: TheaterWorks Hartford and Hartford Stage are co-producing the Sondheim musical as part of their 2025-’26 seasons. The show will be directed by Rob Ruggiero (artistic director of TheaterWorks Hartford), who has directed multiple musicals at Goodspeed, among other locations. In fact, he is directing at Goodspeed this season. The show will be presented at Hartford Stage, which has substantially more seats and a larger stage. Even an intimate production of the show is costly; the co-production will allow each theater to present the show to its subscribers. It will run from June to July 2026 and be part of each theater’s subscription series. This is not the first time that Hartford Stage has partnered with another Connecticut theater; they partnered with Long Wharf in the early 2000s.

Continued from page 28

Pulitzer Winner

: Last year, by Eboni Booth won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Beginning Thursday, April 10 (through Sunday, May 11), you can see a production at TheaterWorks Hartford. The premise is that a 38-yearold bookstore worker must confront a world he has avoided with comic results after he is laid off. Tickets are available at TWHartford.org.

Shakespeare Classic Primary Trust

: If you love songs like “Hey, Good Lookin’,” “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” you will want to see Ivoryton’s opening production. is more than just a collection of his songs. It tells the story of his brief life (he died at 29) and his legacy. The show, which is tagged for mature audiences, runs from Thursday, April 3, through Sunday, April 27. Tickets are available at IvorytonPlayhouse.org.

New Musicals in Chester

: Hartford Stage is presenting Shakespeare’s from Thursday, April 17, through Sunday, May 18. The production will be directed by Artistic Director Melia Bensussen. It stars Niall Cunningham as Romeo and Carmen Berkley as Juliet. Tickets are available at Hartford Stage.org. Multiple student matinees for school groups are scheduled. The open captioned performance is Sunday, May 4;

Romeo and Juliet

About Time Starting Here Starting Now Closer Than Ever.

: Goodspeed has announced two new musicals for the Terris Theatre in Chester. The season opens with a new musical revue, , by the well-known team of Richard Maltby, Jr. and David Shire. They wrote , , and It runs from May 24 to June 15. The season concludes with which was launched at Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. It runs Oct. 3 to 26. Seasons tickets are on sale now, with tickets for individual shows available on Tuesday, April 8, at Goodspeed.org.

NYC Notes

The Great Emu War Othello

: The new production of starring Denzel Washington and

Jake Gyllenhaal may have the highest listed prices (some seats are over $900), but the critics were decidedly lukewarm on the Kenny Leon-directed production. The Broadway musical may be based on the TV series about the creation of a fictional musical about Marilyn Monroe, but producers say it will be significantly different. While character names may be the same, their portrayals and characteristics will be different. New characters are also introduced and a changed storyline. The show is now in previews; it opens Thursday, April 10. Upcoming Broadway openings include the revival of , the Broadway debut of , George Clooney’s Broadway debut in , the musical about Betty Boop, and . Smash Glengarry Gleen Ross The Last Five Years Goodnight and Good Luck, Boop! Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle. wordpress.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women, and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Light Pollution: Minimizing the Adverse Consequences

: 10 to 11 a.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Leo Smith, chair of the Connecticut chapter of DarkSky International. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.

Letters to the Earth

: 10:30 a.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For ages 3 and up. Participants will work in groups to make collages of earth-related images, then individually write a letter to share their thoughts to the Earth, and craft small globes for display in the case. The work will be on display for library visitors during the month of April. Space and supplies are limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

History and Nature Walk

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, 733 Old Clinton Rd., Westbrook. Features a free walk led by Ranger Shaun Roche to see three unique historic buildings on the property, discuss why Eleanor Roosevelt and her friends enjoyed it there, and look for early spring wildlife along the trails. For info, contact 860-399-2513 or Shaun_Roche@fws.gov.

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: The Day the River Caught Fire by Barry Wittenstein. 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.

Open House

: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Allis-Bushnell House, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society. Visitors can explore the exhibit in the dining room, featuring the Munger family’s early dustless crayons and Reuben Shaler’s 1858 carpet sweeper. Docents are available to provide information and guests can view artworks and artifacts. Free admission. For info or to register, call 203-245-4567 or visit madisonhistory.org.

Artist Reception: Mary D'Amico

Madison Inventors

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum Includes a selection of D'Amico's art pieces for sale. Refreshments will be served. Rain date: Sunday. April 6. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.

Author Event: Rebecca Podos in Conversation with Lenora Woods

Homegrown Magic

: 1 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. Book: co-written by Jamie Pacton. Presented by the Montgomery & Taggert Bookshop and the Chester Public Library. Copies of the book are available for purchase in advance for signing at the event. For info or to register, contact 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org or visit chesterctlibrary.com.

Concert by Hot Peas 'N Butter: The Ultimate Family Music Experience

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

The History and Future of Offshore Wind Energy in Connecticut

: 1:30 to 3 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Attorney Charles Rothenberger from Save the Sound. Sponsored by the Shoreline Group of the Sierra Club. Free and open to all. For info or to register, email wildwoodsiv@comcast.net or visit connecticut.sierraclub.org/outings.

Tie Dye Drawstring Bags

: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For ages 5 and up. Supplies provided. Wear clothes that can get stained. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

See page 32

Page Turners 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.

— Roxanne, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison Lion bySonyaWalger

WaitingontheMoon byPeterWolf

I picked up the book for its cover and was rewarded with exquisite writing, energy, and style that was fresh and fabulous. A story of how we navigate and love a parent despite...Wonderful!!

Peter Wolf is famous as the legendary lead singer of the J. Geils Band, but did you know that he is also a fantastic storyteller? His memoir flows as a series of vignettes that evoke not just the time and place but the mood. A great read!

— Marilyn, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Superbloom byNicholasCarr

If you’re one of the many currently reconsidering your relationship with technology and social media, Nicholas Carr’s is a must-read! From the telegraph to Facebook, Carr takes a closer look at the promise these technologies held versus their imperfect realities. really inspired me to be more intentional about my communication and more mindful about how I spend my time.

Superbloom

Superbloom — Abby, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Kate&Frida byKimFay

This epistolary novel follows two young women in 1990s Seattle and Paris who discover the power of books and friendship as they struggle to find their place in the world. It’s as uplifting and comforting as a warm hug.

— Karen, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Page Turners

Continued from page 30

NineteenSteps byMillieBrown

NoneofThisisTrue byLisaJewell

Nellie Morris lives in East End London during WWII. Dreaming of a bigger life, she finds herself in the midst of war, surrounded by tragedy, love, and hope. Inspired by Millie Bobby Brown’s family experience during the Bethel Green tube station disaster in 1943, is a coming-of-age story showcasing resilience and community.

—Jackie, Griswold Inn Store, Essex

Nineteen Steps

A psychological thriller, an unreliable narrator, and twists and turns that don’t stop are what you can expect from Lisa Jewell’s latest book. Alix, a popular podcaster, meets Josie, a stranger who convinces her to make it on the podcast. First impressions are of perfection, but quickly, Alix starts to question what’s real, and the reader starts to question Josie’s intentions.

— Jackie, Griswold Inn Store, Essex

Abundance byEzraKleinandDerekThompson

This is the next current issues book that every citizen should read—right before calling your state and local reps. There is enough to go around as long as we embrace this ideology right away.

— Mel, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

TheStorySheLeftBehind byPattiCallahanHenry

Another enchanting novel of historical fiction by Patti Callahan Henry! Clara is 8 years old when her mother—a child prodigy author—disappears, leaving Clara and her father heartbroken. Now, with a daughter of her own, Clara is an illustrator, living quietly in a place she loves until she receives a phone call that will take her to England in search of her mother. A beautiful story of love thought lost and love found.

— Marilyn, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Venezuelan Trumpet Virtuoso Pacho Flores

Headlines Woolsey Hall

The New Haven Symphony Orchestra (NHSO) will kick off summer concerts with ”Danzas Sinfónicas,” a program highlighting the rhythmic and expressive power of Latin American symphonic music, on Sunday, May 4, at 3 p.m. at Woolsey Hall. Under the direction of Music Director Perry So, the concert will feature internationally renowned trumpet soloist Pacho Flores, a three-time Latin Grammy nominee making his highly anticipated NHSO debut.

Celebrating Latin America’s rich musical and dance traditions, the concert will feature elegant Cuban danzón in Arturo Márquez’s Danzón No. 2, energetic tango in Daniel Freiberg’s Historias de Flores y Tangos, and Andean folk influences in Gabriela Lena Frank’s Escaramuza. Silvestre Revueltas’s Sensemayá will pulse with Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and Alberto Ginastera’s Four Dances from Estancia will evoke the powerful malambo dance of Argentina’s pampas.

Music Director Perry So says “We open our summer programming with a blockbuster concert constructed from the powerful symphonic repertoire of our closest geographical neighbors - Latin America. Dance music is everywhere on the program, and the essence of this music is how carefully poised it is between dance on the one hand and impeccable artistry on the other. I am always initially drawn into this music by the driving rhythms

and soaring melodies but find myself digging deeper and deeper into their engagement with some of the weightiest chapters of our shared hemispheric history. We are joined in the second half by my friend and hermano, Pacho Flores, the trumpet virtuoso with the most beautiful, heartbreaking tone I know, and he brings with him two concertos written especially for him to close this season.”

Pacho Flores will make his NHSO debut, performing two concertos written especially for him by Arturo Márquez and Daniel Freiberg, showcasing his extraordinary technical command and expressive artistry. Flores has established himself as one of the foremost trumpeters of his generation. He was awarded first prize in the Maurice André International Trumpet Competition, the most prestigious competition of its kind, along with top prizes in the Philip Jones and Cittá di Porcia competitions. A product of Venezuela’s renowned El Sistema music program, Flores has performed as a soloist with leading orchestras worldwide, including the NHK Orchestra of Japan, the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, and the Philharmonic Orchestra of Kyiv.

Flores has received multiple Latin Grammy nominations for his albums, which feature collaborations with major composers such as Arturo Márquez, Paquito D’Rivera, Roberto Sierra, Efraín Oscher, Christian Lindberg, and Daniel Freiberg, and performances with renowned orchestras including the Konzerthaus Orchester Berlin, Arctic Philharmonic, Real Filharmonía de Galicia, and Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería.

Open

Mic Night

Only Just Begun: A Celebration of The Carpenters

: 4 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by the Madison Lyric Stage. Tickets: $45. Services fees apply. For info or tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.

2025

: 6 p.m. Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Features cocktails, dinner, live and silent auctions, and entertainment. The event honors Helen Bosch, CEO of Vista Innovations. Attire: floral-inspired outfit or accents to align with the theme of "Blossom and Bloom." Tickets: $150, sponsorship levels available. Proceeds benefit Vista Life Innovations. For info or tickets, visit https://bit.ly/Blossom-Bloom.

: 6 to 8 p.m. Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Rd., Deep River. Features music, family activities, lantern decorating, sensory-friendly spaces, neurodiverse artists' showcase, and more. Free admission but donations are welcome. Hosted by A Little Compassion Inc. and its flagship program, The Nest Coffee House. For info or to register, call The Nest Coffee House at 860-322-8090 or visit alittlecompassion.org.

: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Flat Rock Gallery, 314 Flat Rock Place, Suite F135, Westbrook. Hosted by Shoreline Arts Alliance’s junior board of directors on the Shoreline. Features performances by high school students from Shoreline Arts Alliance’s 24 town region. Ticket: $5 students, $10 adults. Available at the door or online. For info or tickets, visit shorelinearts.org/open-mic-night.

Sweet Saturday Nights: Kala Farnham, Connecticut State Troubadour

: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $15. Service fees apply. Refreshments are available for purchase. For info or tickets, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events.

SATURDAY,

APRIL 5

AND SUNDAY, APRIL 6

Books by the Sea

: Saturday, check-in

The Stolen Queen: A Novel

Hot Air: A Novel

Continued from page 29 See page 33

: 7:30 p.m. United Church of Chester, 29 W. Main St. Features performances from musicals and . Admission: Freewill donations. For info, call 845-220-8239 or visit hilarieclarkmoore.com.

An Evening of Songs from Hilarie Clark Moore's New Musicals Concert by Beau Soleil avec Michael Doucet with Special Guest Richard Thompson The Fishergirl Jeannie

: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

11 a.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check-in at R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Second venue is the First Congregational Church (FCC) of Madison, 26 Meeting House Ln. Features the following highlights: an author event with Fiona Davis ( ) on Friday at 4:30 p.m. at the FCC; pastries and prose on Sunday at 10 a.m. at R.J. Cafe and Bistro; an author event with Marcy Dermansky ( ) on Sunday at 11 a.m. at R.J. Julia Booksellers; and a send-off party at 1 p.m. Cost: $160, includes admission, a copy of the books at the event, pastries, and a tote bag. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Con Brio Choral Society Spring Concert 2025

: Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 4 p.m. Christ the King Church, 1 McCurdy Rd., Old Lyme. Features the Con Brio Festival Orchestra and Con Brio Chorus conducted by Dr. Stephen Bruce. Includes guest soloist Ransom Bruce, tenor. For info or tickets, call 860-526-5399 or visit conbrio.org.

Press Release from the New Haven Symphony Orchestra

Photo courtesy of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra Trumpet virtuoso Pacho Flores will headline the NHSO's “Danzas Sinfónicas” at Woolsey Hall.

We've

Vista Life Innovations Starlight Benefit

Sixth Annual Lantern Illumination Celebration

Continued from page 32

SUNDAY, APRIL 6

Through the Centuries: Music of Inspiration and Peace

: 10 a.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. Features a performance by the NMCC choir. For info, contact the church at 203-4213241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.

Concert by the Sensational Soul Cruisers: Destination Soultown

comptroller’s office about the state’s labor and housing markets, as well as projections for the General Fund, Special Transportation Fund, and Budget Reserve Fund. Includes light breakfast and beverages. For info or to register, visit madisonct.com.

Hollywood Gems: Swing Time

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Mighty Mindsets

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

Vincent Van Gogh: From Paris to Arles to Eternity

:

11 a.m. Via Zoom. Presented by Bob Potter, art historian at the Lyme Academy of Art and docent at the Yale Center for British Art. Hosted by Madison Art Society. For info or to register (required to receive the Zoom link), email Marianne@RTDTECH.com.

Transitions into Adolescence and Adulthood

: 12:30 to

MONDAY, APRIL 7

Mary’s Culinary Class: April Fool's Meatball "Cupcake" and Sunny Side Up "Eggs" Cupcakes

: 2 and 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. : 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Indian River Recreation Complex Multipurpose Room, 201 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For ages 6 to 14. Hosted by the Clinton Parks and Recreation. Open to Clinton residents and nonresidents. Cost: $40. For info or to register (required), contact 203-464-8447 or marysculinaryclassesllc@gmail.com, or visit the class schedule link at marysculinaryclassesllc.com.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8

The Stories, Science, and History of Trees with Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming

The Tree Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Trees

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. Made possible by a grant from the Christine E. Moser Foundation. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/scrantonlibrary.

Cookbook Club

Soup of the Day: 365 Recipes for Every Day of the Year

: 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Book: by Kate McMillan. Attendees make a dish of their choosing from a recipe in the cookbook and bring it to the meeting. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-399-6422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.

Yoga with Martha

: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Martha Smith, a certified yoga instructor and chair yoga practitioner at Body Karma Studio in Clinton. Bring a yoga mat. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Concert by the Yardbirds

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

Community Forum with First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons and Comptroller Sean Scanlon

: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org. : 8:30 to 10 a.m. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Covers key updates on the town of Madison, Connecticut’s economic outlook, and additional insights from the

: 3:15 to 4:30 p.m. Kathleen E. Goodwin Elementary School, 80 Old Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook. For grades 2 to 4. Led by Old Saybrook High School senior Lila Cadley and assisted by Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services staff. Snacks and juice provided. Student pickup will be in front of the school at 4:30 p.m. Space is limited. Other dates: Wednesdays, April 23 and April 30. For info or to register, visit the link for afterschool clubs/half-day trips at Goodwin at osyfs.org.

Grub Club

: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For children ages 8 and older to learn basic cooking skills and new recipes to make for the family. All supplies provided. Parents of participants are requested to disclose any allergies during registration. Funded by the Old Saybrook Public Health Nursing Board, Presented by public health nutritionist Kathy Cobb. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Market Your Small Business Using Podcasts

: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Online event. Presented by podcast producer Jason Connell. Free. Hosted by SCORE Eastern Connecticut. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct.

Tired but Trying: Taming the Flames of Burnout

: 6 to

7 p.m. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. Facilitated by Brittany Eckert, certified prevention specialist. For adults only, no children. No registration required. For info, contact 860-510-5051 or brittany.eckert@oldsaybrookct.gov.

Preparing for the Golf Season

: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by physical therapist Corey Podbielski. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Author Event: Barbara “Babs” Costello

: 7 p.m. First

Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Book:

2 p.m. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. A second session from 6:30 to 8 p.m. also takes place via Zoom. Part of the monthly support group meetings for parents and grandparents of children diagnosed with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger Syndrome. Free and open to residents of Old Saybrook and surrounding towns. For info, or to register, call OSYFS at 860-395-3190 or email counselor Joanne Baker Deal at joannebakerdeal@gmail.com.

Green Old Saybrook

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a talk about the Green Old Saybrook Community Tree and Shrub Planting Guide developed by the Town of Old Saybrook. Presented by landscape designer Kathy Connolly, who helped develop the guide, which is available as a free e-book and is a searchable PDF. For a pdf of the guide, click on the "Tree Guide and Initiatives" at oldsaybrookct.gov/land-use. For info or to register, call 860395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

ONGOING EVENTS

Art Exhibits

Andrews Memorial Town Hall:

54 E. Main St., Clinton: For info, visit clintonartsocietyct.org/exhibitions.

Clinton Art Society 2025 Winter Juried Members Artists Show

: Runs through April 24.

Flat Rock Gallery

Future Choices 2025 Exhibition

: 314 Flat Rock Place, Westbrook: For info, contact 203-421-6739 or office@shorelinearts.org. : Runs through April 11 and April 23 through April 27.

Susan Powell Fine Art

: 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison: For info, call 203-318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com.

Spring into Art

Vincent Giarrano: City Color

David Dunlop: Quest for Radiance

. Cost: $38 admission for one and a copy of the book, $5 companion ticket. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

National Theatre Live in HD: Every Day with Babs: 101 Family-Friendly Dinner for Every Day of the Week

Dr. Strangelove

: 7 p.m.

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen. Running time: 180 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Music

The Choo Choo Lounge at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina:

: Runs through April 26. : Runs May 2 through May 31. : Runs June 6 through July 6. 2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-3952000.

Thursdays and Sundays: 6 to 9 p.m. Live music.

The Highliner III:

139 Essex Rd., Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-5042 or visit thehighliner3.com.

Fridays and Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Live music.

Second and fourth Thursdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Open mic.

VOTING STARTS

Vote for your favorites once per day per category! Check out our brand-new GameDay categories!

Top 5 voting will be open through April 27 (at 11:59 pm) Winners will be announced at an invitation-only event in July and in On the Shoreline, publishing in The Day on Sunday, August 10

Real estate

A Sanctuary of Convenience and Elegance

Staff Report

Experience the convenience of one-level living in this impeccably maintained home, where pride of ownership shines in every corner.

A gracious entry welcomes you into the open and airy floor plan of this bright, classically designed residence. The heart of the home is the great room, bathed in natural light from numerous windows and anchored by an inviting wood-burning fireplace made more captivating by its floor-to-ceiling stonework.

Entertaining is a delight in the state-of-the-art kitchen, featuring a large granite island, chef-grade stainless appliances, gas range, wine fridge, and functional pantry. The generous dining area is perfect for hosting large gatherings or enjoying intimate dinner parties.

Sliding glass doors off the dining area open to a private rear deck and sunroom, offering a serene retreat during the warmer months and easy access to leisurely swims in the pool. The primary bedroom suite on the main level is a haven of luxury, complete with a luscious bath and sliding doors leading to private deck—fulfilling the high demand for one-level comfort. A spacious mudroom with laundry and half bath complete the main level’s thoughtful layout.

Descend the handsome staircase to the lower level, where flexibility meets function. Two well-sized bedrooms and large full bath are complemented by two additional flex rooms, perfect for a home office, craft room, or exercise space. Summer days are a dream with the above-ground pool and outdoor shower, set within easy reach of the Connecticut shoreline’s many delights. This property is a sanctuary of convenience and elegance. This home is being offered for sale by William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty for $875,000. For more information or a showing, contact Amy Kirst at 203-641-6000 or Sue Knapp at 203-824-4452.

Entertaining is a delight in the state-of-the-art kitchen, featuring a large granite island, chefgrade stainless appliances, gas range, wine fridge, and functional pantry.

The heart of the home is the great room, bathed in natural light from numerous windows and anchored by an inviting wood-burning fireplace made more captivating by its floor-toceiling stonework.

Experience the convenience of one-level living in this impeccably maintained home, where pride of ownership shines in every corner.

CLINTON

35 Sherwood Terrace

: Marjorie G.

Hart to Richard C. and Lisa M. Parmelee, $610,000 on March 11

RET and Ezra D. Levine to Ralph L. Denino and Kathleen Pesce, $2,900,000 on March 11

39 Lovers Lane

Collu, $320,000 on March 11

CHESTER

: Christian M. Holzer and Juliet F. Malin to Tommy Yanbul and Jessica Bohan, $415,000 on March 10

: Shawn Gray to Bernard Campbell and Bryan P. Kupke, $359,000 on March 10

: Amanda Gamache and Ryan S. Mitchell to Matthew J. Amatruda and Hannah Hoxworth, $460,000 on March 13

: Kendra Tyska and Benjamin Corbett to Carmine and Carmine P. Valentino, $317,500 on March 12

: Lgdbgd LLC to Carol Wheeler, $330,000 on March 11

: Mark S. Koelle to Michael W. Allen and Yohana F. Ramirez, $370,000 on March 11

15 Economy Drive Unit 8

: Peter J. Pielli to Teresa Munson, $184,000 on March 14

OLD SAYBROOK

1 Connolly Drive

: Estate of Wilhelmina J. Sieffert and Douglas A. Sieffert to Adam Szirtes and Mariya E. Moskovets, $397,000 on March 10

9 Deerfield Road

: Sylvia Tungvaag to Barry Weissman, $400,000 on March 11

15 Kirtland Terrace

: Shirley B

Miceli Lt and Nancy M. Watkins to Sandra Krasnitski, $280,000 on March 10

N/A

: Christopher P. and Patricia A. Buiten to Carley J. Buiten, $276,000 on March 10

DEEP RIVER

20 Bokum Road

: Frank C. Twombly and Joseph E. Olson to Kaitlyn H. Cherry and Kathryn M. Kelly, $750,000 on March 11

30 Riverview Avenue

: Wtby 5 Dev LLC to Anthony M. and Sheila M. Serra, $465,000 on March 13 : Brian R. and Melissa L. Schenck to Shawn and Sarah Gray, $725,000 on March 11

59 Shailer Pond Road

181 Westbrook Road

: Daniel S. Savoie to Manuel Poguio and Monica Gonzalez, $250,000 on Feb. 3

ESSEX

7 Falls River Circle

: Mitchel Seven

LLC to Aaron C. and Teresa A. Von Staats, $295,000 on March 14

121 Saybrook Road

: Us Bank Na to Jennifer V. Scoter, $745,000 on March 12

: Laureen O. and Darren C. Eller to Eva Vancamp and Tim Schang, $1,165,000 on March 10

55 Stony Lane

: Waterside Bldg & Dev Ii L to Michael Michaud and Jamie Gatto, $650,000 on March 13

GUILFORD

66 High Street Unit 44

: Jo Connor

to Deborah Murphy and Joseph Mislinski, $1,150,000 on March 14

45 Juniper Knoll at Leetes Island

:

James D. Leonardo and Marie J. Quick to William Welch, $85,000 on March 13

1982 Long Hill Road

: Veronica E.

Toro to Chelsea and Jordan Hilliard, $415,000 on March 12

2569 Long Hill Road

: Arnold B. Fowler to 2569 Long Hill Road LLC, $200,000 on March 14

1229 Moose Hill Road

: Stacey C.

Pope to Madeline N. Vossbrinck and Michael L. Poage, $980,000 on March 10

32 Summer Street

: Blair Watton to Kathie Iannucci, $274,000 on March 10

: Scott G. and Leah G. Davenport to Michael Pierne and Gina Hunt, $702,500 on March 12 : Stephen W. Whalen and Nationstar Mortgage to Michael F. Reed, $308,818 on March 13

: Nancy A. Tomassini to Gregory Buller, $1,000,000 on March 11

:

Adelheid H Reshotnik Irt and John M. Reshotnik to Elizabeth A. Toole, $401,500 on March 11

: Ral

North Haven LLC to William H. and Lynette Murray, $550,850 on March 10

: Gina Hunt to Lisa M. and Rachel Demartino, $556,000 on March 12

: Mark Bonsignore Testament and Cathy Gunn to Badr Nagi, $551,500 on March 13

MADISON KILLINGWORTH

195 Schnoor Road Unit 17

: William

Farrow to Curtis Gonzalez and Alyidar Ziyadeh, $477,900 on March 10

414 Bartlett Drive

: Matthew and Kyra Luciani to Andrew and Anna Heckler, $925,000 on March 13

13 Deveron Drive

: Estate of Chan Chuongvan and William Chuongvan to Vidya Krishnamurthy and Satish Ramalingam, $927,000 on March 13

82 Hartford Avenue

: Ezra D Levine

: Roger S. Tucker to Holloway T and Beth M. Holloway, $365,000 on March 10

BRANFORD

146 Cedar Street

: Christina Gonzalez to Rajan Sapkota, $380,000 on March 10

187 Cherry Hill Road Ext

: Bc Inv

Propertys LLC to Anthony J. and Lisa A. Lancia, $400,000 on March 14

10 Elizabeth Street

: Cmgv Holdings

LLC to Robert Laprade and Molly Keegan, $740,000 on March 11 :

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William Cook to Mitul Gada and Sonali Shah, $282,000 on March 10

Long Point Road

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LLC to Robert W. Wilber, $850,000 on March 12

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Mary Kentosh to Margaret and Dennis Blackwell, $300,000 on March 14

Monticello Drive Unit

Stefanie D. Acampora to Samantha

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: Eagle Estates LLC to James A. Acabbo, $450,000 on March 13 : Stephen Gizo and Pharlene Estiverne to Monika K. Sonemaneevong and Darryl Kendrick, $369,900 on March 12

: Ral

North Haven LLC to William H. and Lynette Murray, $550,850 on March 10 : Toms Properties LLC to Samantha Incerto and Jordan Aceto, $340,000 on March 11 : Anandah M. Sutton to Sylvia Roman, $230,000 on March 11

: Mohamed Shnan to 2 Sixteen Ventures LLC, $205,000 on March 11

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Goodspeed Musicals Announces 2025 Season at Terris Theatre

Press Release from Goodspeed Musicals

Two-time Tony Award-winning Goodspeed Musicals announces a season of two brand-new musicals at the Terris Theatre in Chester. One is the latest from a Tony, Oscar, and Grammy-winning songwriting team who have a long history with the theatre, and the other is a new musical homegrown through Goodspeed’s Festival of New Musicals. Both musicals are at the early stages of their lives, and the teams will focus on developing the work throughout their time at the Terris. With audience feedback, changes will be made to both the book and score, which is a hallmark of the Terris Theatre. To allow as much flexibility for change as possible, the set and costumes will be kept simple so the show can change daily if necessary. The season will open with the heartfelt new musical revue , which will run from May 24 to June 15. At first, they were . After a few years, they were Now, decades later, the legendary awardwinning writing team of Richard Maltby, Jr. and David Shire complete the trilogy they didn’t know they were creating... . From long-ago love affairs and ambitions of the past to techsavvy grandkids and lost keys, this funny and touching revue features all new songs about people navigating the joys and challenges of growing older while staying young in spirit.

About Time

Starting Here, Starting Now Closer Than Ever

About Time

About Time

Baby Big Starting Here Starting Now Closer Than Ever Norma Rae Saturday Night Fever

The Story of My Life The 60’s Project Miss Saigon The Story of My Life Fosse Big Baby Ain’t Misbehavin’ About Time

Starting Here Starting Now Closer Than Ever On the Town Ragtime

features music by Academy and Grammy Award-winner David Shire (Broadway: , ; Off-Broadway: , ; ; Film: (Academy Award for Best Song), (two Grammy Awards for Album Of The Year)) with lyrics by Tony Award-winning director Richard Maltby, Jr. (The Terris: , ; Broadway: , , , , , (Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical)). Maltby will also direct the musical. completes a trilogy about life by Maltby and Shire that began in 1976 with , , and continued in 1989 with . The production will feature choreography and musical staging by Tony-nominated Marcia Milgrom Dodge (The Goodspeed: , Broadway: ).

The Great Emu War

The Great Emu War

The season will conclude with a new “EMUsical” comedy, , which will run Oct. 3 to 26. Remember that one time that the Australian government sent their army with machine guns

to wage war on emus in Western Australia? Neither do most people…but when Edith, the headstrong warbler, and her flock begin to feed on the wheat of local farmers—the humans take up arms against Australia’s favorite feathered friends. Think of it as Cats but with emus. It’s the most emusing 90 minutes you’ll have in any theatre…don’t miss it! features a book by Cal Silberstein, a West Australian writer, performer, producer, and dramaturg whose works have been performed in the United States and beyond. Music and lyrics are by Paul Hodge, an award-winning writer-composer from Brisbane whose work has been produced Off-Broadway, in London, Edinburgh, and Australia, including at the Sydney Opera House. The Great Emu War will be directed and choregraphed by Amy Anders Corcoran

(The Goodspeed: Christmas in Connecticut; Broadway: Escape to Margaritaville, associate director; Off-Broadway: Unexpected Joy).

“We are proud to play a significant role in the future of musical theatre through our commitment to new musical development,” said Artistic Director Donna Lynn Hilton. “At The Terris Theatre, there is a wonderful synergy of writers putting their work in front of an audience for the first time and an audience that is eager to see something new and help shape it through their feedback. The result is not just an entertaining evening, but an investment in the future that comes with bragging rights to tell the world, ‘I saw it first at Goodspeed!’”

For the past 41 years, The Terris Theatre has been Goodspeed’s home for developing fresh, innovative, and original new

musicals. Many new and reimagined musicals have been developed in Chester before moving on to Broadway, Off-Broadway, national tours, and other regional theatres. Audiences are invited to “see it here first” and enjoy being part of creating brand-new musicals.

Season tickets for shows at The Terris Theatre are on sale now for just $66. Tickets will go on sale to the public on Tuesday, April 8. Goodspeed Memberships for 2025 are available now and provide many benefits to donors at both the Terris Theatre and Goodspeed. For more information, call the Goodspeed box office at 860-873-8668, open weekdays 10 a.m to 5 p.m., or visit www.goodspeed.org.

The Terris Theatre is supported by The Norma Terris/Albert D. Firestone Foundation.

Image courtesy of Goodspeed Musicals

Image courtesy of Goodspeed Musicals The season will conclude with a new “EMUsical” comedy, The Great Emu War, which will run Oct. 3 to 26.

The season will open with the heartfelt new musical revue About Time, which will run from May 24 to June 15.

Continued from page 33

The Wharf:

Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. For info, call 203-350-0014 or visit thewharfmadison.com.

Fridays: 8 to 10 p.m. Acoustic Fridays. Various performers.

Groups and Activities

Art Critique Series (General Critique Session):

10 a.m. to noon. First Thursday. Via Zoom. Artists may send works as jpeg attachments prior to the session to casclinton@gmail.com. Sponsored by the Clinton Art Society (CAS). For info, email casclinton@gmail.com.

Art Critique Series (Special-Themed Session):

10 a.m. to noon. Third Thursday. Via Zoom. Runs November through April. Artists may send works as jpeg attachments prior to the session to casclinton@gmail.com. Sponsored by the Clinton Art Society (CAS). For info, email casclinton@gmail.com.

Sara Levine Helps Kick Off National Library Week

Creative Writing Group:

6 p.m. Second Monday. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, contact 860-669-2342 or sarah@hchlibrary.org.

Discussion Group: The Atlantic Magazine: Duplicate Bridge:

10:30 a.m. Fourth Wednesday. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, call 860-669-2342 or email sarah@hchlibrary.org.

6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. First Church of Christ in Saybrook, Congregational, 366 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-388-0693.

Genealogy with Marcy Fuller:

6 to 8 p.m.

Fourth Tuesday. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. No appointment necessary. For info, call the library at 860-3996422.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group:

Arts and Entertainment with Deborah Gilbert: Bingo:

6 p.m. Tuesdays. Valley Shore Community Television Inc., 1587 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, call 203912-2319 or visit vsctv.com.

6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Cost: $12 per person. For info, call 860-388-1611.

Books on Tap Book Club:

6 to 7 p.m. Second Wednesday. Myrcene Ale Co., 39 Ragged Rock Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to patrons ages 21 and up. Sponsored by the Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Chair Yoga with Martha:

6:30 p.m.

Fourth Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Coloring and Conversation:

2 to 3 p.m.

First Monday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Registration is suggested. For info or to register, contact Cindy Baklik at 860-395-3184 or cbaklik@actonlibrary.org, or visit actonlibrary.org.

Local author Sara Levine will help kick off National Library Week at the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, Branford, on Sunday, April 6. Levine will read from her latest book, Hello Dog/Hello Human, plus her award-winning picture book Bone by Bone. Afterward, kids will be invited to participate in an activity involving animals and their skeletons. Breakwater Books will be on hand with plenty of Sara’s books for sale and signing. Registration is requested. This event is free, for all ages, and all are welcome. For more details and to register, call 203-488-8702, email staff@wwml.org, or visit www.wwml.org/events/author-event-saralevine.

Local author Sara Levine will help kick off National Library Week at the Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Road, Branford, on Sunday, April 6. Photo courtesy of Sara Levine

Compassion Kits:

4 p.m. Wednesdays. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Participants knit and/or crochet items for charity. Needles, yarn, and patterns are provided, but participants may bring their own. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

5:30 to 7 p.m. Fourth Monday. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Facilitated by the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services clinical staff. Hosted by The Estuary in collaboration with the Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Registration is not required. For info, visit events.hchlibrary.org.

Jigsaw Puzzle Meet Up and Swap:

Theater

Annapurna

Noon to 3 p.m. Second Sunday. Myrcene Ale Co., 39 Ragged Rock Rd., Old Saybrook. No cost to join but must bring a jigsaw puzzle to swap. Co-hosted with Old Tyme Toys. For info, visit oldsaybrookchamber.com. : Drama Works Theatre Company, 323 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Runs through April 6. For info, contact 860-876-2020 or info@dramaworkstheatre.org, or visit dramaworkstheatre.org.

Hank Williams: Lost Highway:

Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through April 27. For info, call 860-767-7318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org.

6 to 7:30 p.m. Fourth Tuesday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to all. For info or to register, call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Cookbook Club: Craft Night:

6 p.m. Third Tuesday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to ages 14 and up. For info or to register, call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.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.

Book cover courtesy of Sara Levine

Press release from Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library

Photo courtesy of Sara Levine