Town Asks Court to Evict Westbrook Ambulance Association From HQ
By Eric O'Connell
Staff Writer
The Town of Westbrook announced it is continuing litigation to evict the Westbrook Ambulance Association (WAA) from its headquarters building due to the association’s refusal to cooperate with an internal investigation into the organization’s finances.
Last summer, Westbrook residents were startled and angered when allegations of
longstanding financial mismanagement by WAA were made public. The revelations led to the resignation of the former WAA chief, and the town had to appropriate up to $238,000 to conduct a forensic audit of the WAA and to pay off an outstanding mortgage with KeyBank on the WAA headquarters property at 1316 Boston Post Road.
Since then, the WAA has changed leadership and had reportedly been cooperating with the town on the investigation. However,
that is no longer the case according to town officials.
On April 22, Westbrook Town Attorney Tim Herbst emailed a press release to the explaining that the town was moving forward with a lawsuit seeking to evict the WAA from the headquarters building.
The lawsuit was first filed in November, Harbor News
See Town Asks page 12
Well Aware
Carla Citarella and her children, Kyle and Alexa, watch as Alec Janis of UConn Extension uses a handson model to show how precipitation becomes groundwater — and how that groundwater is drawn for drinking wells — during the Old Saybrook Environmental Fair on April 26 at Old Saybrook Middle School. The fair featured speakers, exhibits, and activities aimed at raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainability.
The Valley Regional/ Westbrook baseball team is hoping to make a deep run in states with an experienced roster..........................................18
PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ HarborNews
Cindy Pascale
Cindy Pascale: Working to Build Cultural Connections In Westbrook
By Eric O’Connell
Staff Writer
Whether it’s through organizing the upcoming Cultural Connections event or just being a familiar face, Cindy Pascale is doing what she can to support the Westbrook Community as an employee of Westbrook Youth and Family Services (WYFS).
Three years ago, Cindy was looking for a new job following a career in event planning and home care and became aware of an opening in WYFS.
“I knew it was a good fit, and I’d love it,” Cindy tells the Harbor News.
As an office administrator, Cindy says that each day brings something new.
“I do everything from vacuuming to financial reports and budgets to applying for grants,” Cindy says.
Currently, Cindy says she’s been preoccupied with helping organize two upcoming events for the department.
In an effort to connect more with Westbrook’s diverse population as well as young families, WYFS, in conjunction with the Westbrook Early Childhood Council and the Middlesex United Way, is hosting the second annual Cultural Connections
Person of the Week
on Saturday, May 17. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the firehall at 1163 Boston Post Road.
The free event will feature resource material for parents of young kids, kids’ activities, Latin dancing, a raffle, and more.
“The event did really well last year and we’re excited to bring it back,” says Cindy.
While the event last year was totally geared toward connecting with the diverse population in town, Cindy explains that this year, the department is also making sure to reach out to young families in town to come to the event as well.
While it’s not a secret that Westbrook — like most neighboring towns along the shoreline — is a majority white town, it’s more diverse than one might think.
“Twenty-seven percent of our families speak a language other than English at home. We want to make sure we’re connecting with them. The DJ at our event speaks both English and Spanish, so he’s the perfect fit for this. We want everyone to feel welcome and supported,” Cindy says.
According to its mission statement, WYFS is ” …committed to strengthening families and improving the mental health and well-being of all members of the community by providing family, individual, and couples counseling as well as a variety of programs in the schools and community.
“
The second upcoming event Cindy is helping organize aims to make sure the department has the funding needed to realize that goal.
A craft fair fundraiser is scheduled for June 21 on the Town Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“The vendors will rent a square where they can sell their products. They keep the money for what they sell, we get the money from them renting the space. The
See Cindy Pascale page 9
Photo courtesy of Cindy Pascale
Three years ago, Cindy was looking for a new job following a career
Editor to the
Westbrook Middle School Earns Spotlight School Designation
Press release from Westbrook Public Schools
support for the Town of Guilford Budget and encourage the same. I believe our have created a budget that residents. 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. 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. budget continues to provide environments where and socially thrive.
Westbrook Public Schools is proud to announce that Westbrook Middle School has been named a Spotlight School by the New England League of Middle Schools (NELMS). This prestigious designation recognizes the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence in middle school education, as well as its effective and innovative strategies in meeting the needs of young adolescents in Westbrook.
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.
ment where all students can thrive.”
Suzanne Carlson Guilford
Extend the Same Welcome Mat
“We are thrilled to receive the Spotlight School designation from NELMS,” said Matt Talmadge, principal of Westbrook Middle School. “This recognition is a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of our talented staff, students, and the entire Westbrook community. It affirms our ongoing efforts to create a dynamic, supportive learning environ-
CLINTON TOWN MEETINGS
The Spotlight School designation is awarded to schools which demonstrate significant progress in providing an effective, innovative, and inclusive middle school education. Westbrook Middle School earned the recognition through evidence gathered during a recent site visit by the NELMS evaluation team, which observed a school culture dedicated to creative learning experiences, effective collaboration, and a deep understanding of the developmental needs of young adolescents.
Guilford’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1998
Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper
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.
There were several key highlights from the NELMS review, including creative and innovative learning experiences, student voice and engagement, restorative practices in discipline, outstanding attendance,
See Westbrook page 12
Monday, May 5
www.oldsaybrookct.org to learn how to participate in the following meetings: : 6:30 p.m.
Annual Town Budget Meeting Zoning Commission
Tuesday, May 6
Special Town Meeting Plan of Conservation and Development Meeting Town Council Workshop
Monday, May 5
Legacy Theatre Spring 2024 Classes
Coastal Resiliency Task Force
Tuesday, May 6
Beautification Committee
Wednesday, May 7
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: : 5:30 p.m. : 6 p.m. : 6 p.m. : 1 p.m. : 6:30 p.m. : 7 p.m. : 7 p.m. : 8 a.m.
7 p.m. : 5 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7
Kate Summerlin Guilford
Youth and Family Services Commission Planning Commission
7 p.m.
Thursday, May 8
6:30 p.m.
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.
Inland Wetlands Commission Shellfish Commission Town Council Conservation Commission
Meetings
Thursday, May 8
clerk at 203-453-8001 or visit
website at www.guilfordct. participate in the following
WESTBROOK
TOWN MEETINGS
Saturday, April 6
6:30 p.m.
Inland Wetlands Commission Walk Meeting: 7:30 a.m.
Harbor Management Commission Democratic Town Committee
OLD SAYBROOK TOWN MEETINGS
Commission: 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 6
5:30 p.m. : 6:30 p.m.
Monday, April 8
Marina Commission: 7 p.m.
Wednesday, April 10
Thursday, May 8
Inland Wetlands Commission: 7 p.m.
NOTE: Call the town clerk at 860-395-3135 or visit the Old Saybrook town website at
Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission Library Board of Trustees
Town Center Revitalization Committee/Economic Development Commission
Shell sh Commission: 7:30 p.m.
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: : 7 p.m. : 7 p.m. : 7 p.m.
Christian Maldonado Valley Courier
Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130
Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167
Maria Caulfield Living Editor
Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor
Laura 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
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 &
Director
Managing Editor Ext. 6119
Alan C. Ellis Production Director
David A. Ellis Classifieds Manager Ext. 6130
Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising
Christopher Dobbins Prepress Coordinator & Multimedia Designer
John Hyzak Guilford Courier
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
Staff Writer
Rubin
Jim Schiavone
Pem McNerney
Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography
Editorial Staff
Gabrielle Maljanian
Pam Johnson
Contacting Harbor News
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Obituaries
Obituary
Barbara Kyle St. Augustine, FL
Barbara “Bunny” MacMannis Kyle passed away on Jan. 23, 2025, in Saint Augustine, Florida. Born on April 12, 1952, in Bronxville, New York, Bunny lived a life marked by compassion, curiosity, and a deep commitment to service.
Bunny pursued her early education at Low Heywood in Stamford and earned her degree from Centenary University in Hackettstown, New Jersey. Her dedication to learning extended well beyond the classroom; she held professional certifications in real estate and education. Her expertise and passion led her to serve on educational committees for the University of Connecticut School of Business and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, where she contributed meaningfully to shaping policy, curriculum, and standards. Throughout her life, Bunny was guided by a profound spiritual connection. She often said that “God has a sense of humor” and believed that divine answers could be found if one listened closely enough for the still small voice. Her faith was not confined to traditional spaces; she saw God’s presence in everyday moments and encouraged others to put their faith and trust in their Higher Power. She knew that her Lord was her Shepherd who would make the crooked places straight.
Bunny’s love for animals was boundless. She was dedicated to animal welfare through her work with greyhound adoption programs in Connecticut and with the Potcake K9 Rescue in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Her compassion reflected her belief in kindness as a guiding principle. She never met a dog or cat that she didn’t want to hug.
An avid traveler and accomplished scuba diver, Bunny embraced travel and adventure with enthusiasm. Whether exploring coral reefs and swimming with sharks and turtles or discovering new cultures, she
approached each journey with wonder and gratitude. Wherever she visited, she left each place better for her having been there.
Bunny was also a longtime Friend of Bill, a testament to her resilience and commitment to personal growth through sharing her experience, strength, and hope with other likeminded people. She practiced living in the now and took each day as it presented itself.
Not for nothing, she was called the Energizer Bunny. She wore many hats with grace and was a master of multitasking. She drew deep inspiration from the natural world. This was expressed in her memoirs, poetry, painting, jewelry design, and her love of music. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Jim; her daughter, Sara Molgano; her sister, Marcia (Bill) Fallon; brothers, Bert (Pam) MacMannis and Jim (Peggy) MacMannis; and her cherished nephews and nieces: Mark (Jessica) Fallon, Jake Fallon, Andrew and Caroline MacMannis, Adrienne, Andrew, JT, and Tommry MacMannis; and by Dennis and Maria Kyle and their children, Jennifer (Rob) Manstrelli, Jessica (Chris) Curran, and Chris Kyle. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bertram and Sally MacMannis of New Canaan.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, May 15, at Noroton Presbyterian Church, 2011 Post Road in Darien. Interment will take place at 1:30 p.m. in the church’s Memorial Garden. The service will follow from 2 to 3 p.m. All are invited to join the family for coffee and fellowship at the church following the service.
May Bunny’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her and continue to inspire acts of kindness wherever her life is remembered. Happy Easter, Bunny. •• In lieu of flowers, a giving page has been set up at the Yale Smilow Cancer Center:
Life is a journey and there are many turns along your path before reaching your retirement destination. We invite you to take this opportunity to use navigational support from trusted experts on aging and learn how to ll your golden years with more “want tos” than “have tos” while still preserving your nest egg and maintaining nancial freedom.
Don’t leave your retirement to chance by relying on someone else to make decisions for you. Attend our upcoming presentation and learn how to identify the best choices for your future while still living life to the fullest.
The Halfway Hump Old Saybrook boys’ lacrosse won two games last week, but boys’ tennis lost a trio 19
and Downs Morgan boys’ tennis won three times last week, while girls’ tennis lost a pair of matches 20
only does difference on three different athletic circuits for Old Saybrook, but he additionally volunteers his time in the community helping those in need and kids with special needs 20
“Overall the biggest thing I’ll take with me is to stick to it. I’ve been a part of some teams that went 0-10 in back-to-back seasons, and there’s days when you want to quit, but I’ve never let myself do that, and I’m proud of it.” - Ethan Lane 20
Obituaries
Continued from page 4
Obituary
Marguerite Gosselin
Old Saybrook
Marguerite Elizabeth Gosselin, 96, of Old Saybrook, passed away on April 1, 2025, after a life richly lived in kindness. She passed in her home surrounded by loving family.
Marguerite was a lifelong entrepreneur in interior design and art restoration. She was a consummate ballroom dancer and a world traveler. She was forever a caregiver to many less fortunate than herself.
Marguerite was predeceased by her husband, Edward Gosselin, and her
Cans for Cancer
son, Glen Gosselin. She is survived by her daughters, Judith Rice and Kathleen Lemelin; her son-in-law, Glenn Rice; and her grandchildren, Sarah Ibbitson, Emily Dale, Edward Gosselin, Elizabeth Traversaz, Theodore Lemelin, Ingrid Rice, and Madelyn Gosselin. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Joshua Prevost, Eva Dale, Samual Ibbitson, and Charlotte and Luca Traversaz.
Services are scheduled for 10 a.m.
Saturday, June 21, at Grace Episcopal Church in Old Saybrook. Marguerite loved her church and asked that donations be given to Grace Episcopal Church, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, in lieu of flowers.
The Clinton Rotary Club and the Clinton Fire Department are co-hosting Cans for Cancer on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations of recyclable cans and plastic bottles can be dropped off at the Clinton Fire Department, 35 East Main St. Proceeds benefit the Clinton Rotary Cancer Relief Fund to help shoreline cancer victims with bills not covered by insurance. For more information, call Sandy Allen at 860-883-5185.
LEGAL NOTICE
TOWN OF OLD SAYBROOK WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY NOTICE OF BENEFIT ASSESSMENT MAY 2025 PAYMENT DUE
In October 2024, the Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) sent out the Benefit Assessment installment bills. The second installment is due and payable on May 1, 2025. If payment is not received on or before June 2, 2025, the benefit assessment becomes delinquent and subject to interest at the rate of 18% per annum, 1½% per month from the due date for each month or fraction thereof. Interest will be taken from payments received or postmarked as of June 3, 2025. Mail with a postmark (U.S.P.S. postmark only) on or before June 2, 2025 will be considered a timely payment.
Effective November 2024, installment payments are being processed by the Tax Collector, Town Hall, 302 Main Street, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm, and through the lunch hour, with the exception of weekends and holidays. Note: Please consider payment by mail as parking is limited. Should you wish a receipt, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your payment.
Checks should be made payable to the WPCA. Credit/Debit card payments can now be accepted at the Tax Collector’s Office. Transaction Fees are applied as follows:
Credit Card Fee = 2.5% of Total Payment added to the bill ($2.00 minimum) Debit Card Fee (Visa or Mastercard) = $3.95 Flat Fee added Personal Checks = No Fee
If you did not receive a Benefit Assessment bill please contact the WPCA at (860) 395-2876.
Failure to receive a Benefit Assessment bill does not invalidate the assessment or interest due.
Thank you, Water Pollution Control Authority
Westbrook Proposed Budget Vote May 12
By Eric O'Connell
Staff Writer WESTBROOK
Westbrook residents will vote on a proposed $35,344,014 town budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year at a town meeting scheduled for Sunday, May 12, at 7 p.m. at Westbrook High School.
The proposed budget represents an increase of $1,237,904, or 3.63%. It includes both the municipal and Board of Education budgets, which will be voted on as a single item.
In addition to the proposed operating budget, voters will also have the opportunity to approve a five-year capital plan that includes $2,581,550 in projects for year one.
At a special meeting on April 23, the Board of Finance made minor adjustments to the proposed budget, including cutting $10,000 for a program that is expected to receive grant funding.
Only one resident spoke during the public hearing portion of the budget process, primarily asking general questions.
What’s in the Budget?
Board of Finance Chairman Paul Winch previously attributed the budget increase to inflation and the addition of new staff positions.
“Instead of using a third party, we are going to do all our field maintenance inhouse with the Public Works Department now,” Winch said last month.
Winch also pointed to upcoming contract negotiations with the union representing Town Hall staff as a factor in the increase.
“We had to look forward at the Town Hall contract that expires this year. We started negotiations, so we had to put
Calling All Vendors
money in contingency to cover that. It’s important we properly compensate our employees, and we do have to budget that,” Winch said.
Superintendent Dr. Kristina Martineau said the increase on the education side is due to rising costs for electricity, facility repairs, and health insurance, as well as the loss of grant funding.
“In addition to these factors, the budget also includes much-needed support at the high school in mathematics and for our multilingual learners at the elementary and middle schools,” Martineau said.
Martineau said the proposed education budget aims to deliver high-quality learning for students of all ages.
“Westbrook Public Schools is a school system of excellence, providing exceptional educational programming, comprehensive social and emotional supports, and career pathway experiences to ensure that each and every child in our care is empowered with what they need to continue to grow and thrive. The 2025-2026 Westbrook Board of Education budget has been developed collaboratively and thoughtfully to continue to support this important work for the youth of Westbrook,” she said.
On the capital side of the budget, major projects include HVAC work at the schools and replacing the theater lighting system at the high school. Winch also noted the town will need to construct a shed and purchase equipment to support the shift to in-house field maintenance.
The proposed budget will be presented to voters at the May 12 town meeting. Those wishing to approve or reject the proposal may do so at that time.
Winch said the annual citizen’s guide to the budget was in development at press time and would be sent to voters prior to the town meeting.
Businesses, restaurants, crafters, and craft beer vendors are now welcome to apply for the Third Annual Celebrate Saybrook Street Party set to take place on Main Street, Old Saybrook, Sunday, June 22, from 1:30 to 6 p.m. The event features live entertainment, street vendors, shopping, dining, crafts, and more. Vendors can purchase a 12-foot by 12-foot booth space for $100. Service fees apply. All types of vendors are welcome. Booths are located on Main Street along the center median. Celebrate Saybrook does not supply tents, tables, or chairs—only the space. Vendor check-in is from 10 a.m. to noon. The annual street event is presented by the Town of Old Saybrook, Old Saybrook Police Department, The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, Greater Old Saybrook Chamber, and Old Saybrook Parks and Recreation. For more information info, visit ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/CelebrateSaybrook VendorRegistration.
DOUGLAS
MECHANICAL SERVICES
FOR ALL YOUR HVAC NEEDS!
Installation | Service | Sales (860) 357-4952
• 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!
A HUGE Thank You!
Thank you to all the incredible residents and businesses in Old Saybrook and the Connecticut shoreline -- and beyond! You made this year’s Shoreline Fire Department Food Drive on Saturday, April 12th another huge success for the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries (SSK&P). The Old Saybrook Fire Department alone collected over 3,750 pounds out of 4 tons of much needed non-perishable food during the food drive at the eight participating shoreline fire stations and the OSFD also received cash donations of more than $2,300 to directly benefit the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries.
Thank you to volunteers: Nadine “Deanie” Sabrin; Theresa Watford; OSFD Lieutenant Nate Minegar and Firefighters John Romano, Geoff Sinibaldo, Tony Cronin, Ron Selines, Eric Duncan, and John Gamble, and Junior Firefighters Dustin Dussault and Abby Minegar, and Old Saybrook Pantry Manager Kim from the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries.
A big thank you also goes to our print sponsor: Shore Publishing; our radio sponsor Lee Elci of 94.9 News Now and Shawn Murphy of SoftRock 106.5 FM WBMW; The Pete Mezzetti Show; our very special volunteer Chief Meteorologist Gil Simmons of NEWS8 WTNH; John Harper, morning host, WLIS/WMRD 1420 AM/1150 AM, and to Bill Evans, Mandi, and the entire team from WLNG 92.1 FM.
And finally, thank you for the generous donations from the following organizations: Wal-Mart in Old Saybrook; Parthenon Diner in Old Saybrook for an awesome breakfast; Dunkin’ in Old Saybrook for coffee and donuts; and Mirsina’s in Old Saybrook for the delicious lunch and amazing homemade rice pudding for the grateful volunteers at the OSFD. Thank you also to the food drop off locations in Old Saybrook, including the Essex Savings Bank, Sal’s Pizza and Pasta, Little Pub, Parthenon Diner, Mirsina’s, and Scotch Plains Tavern in Essex.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all! Your extreme generosity once again made this year’s Shoreline Fire Department Food Drive another big success for the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries and the many individuals that they help each day!
Max Sabrin, Old Saybrook Fire Department
ISIDORE STRING QUARTET
Sponsors:
Winner of the 14th Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2022, the New York City-based Isidore String Quartet was formed in 2019 with a vision to revisit, rediscover, and reinvigorate the repertory. The quartet is heavily influenced by the Juilliard String Quartet and the idea of ‘approaching the established as if it were brand new, and the new as if it were firmly established.’
The Isidore String Quartet has performed in Chicago, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Washington, Toronto, Edinburgh and Amsterdam and has collaborated with a number of eminent performers including Jeremy Denk.
Moody’s Upgrades Old Saybrook Credit Rating
By Eric O'Connell
Staff Writer OLD SAYBROOK
In early April, the Town of Old Saybrook was informed that Moody’s has upgraded the town’s credit rating to the second-highest level—an improvement that will allow the town to secure better rates for future bonding projects.
According to a press release from the town, Moody’s upgraded the town’s issuer rating and the rating on the town’s outstanding general obligation unlimited tax bonds to Aa1 from Aa2.
Moody’s, a credit rating agency whose evaluations are frequently coveted by municipalities, awarded Old Saybrook the rating upgrade on April 11.
The press release announcing the news noted, “As a leading global provider of credit ratings, research, and analysis, Moody’s ratings offer valuable insights into the financial stability and creditworthiness of organizations, debt instruments, and securities. Their Aa1 rating is the second highest rating offered and illustrates high quality subject to very low credit risk.”
“When [Finance Director] Lee Ann Palladino and I found out about this we were both ecstatic. We did not ask Moody’s to take a look at our rating, they did it on their own, which makes this even more exciting for us,” Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna told the Harbor News.
Per Moody’s, the reason for the upgrade is “the town’s multi-year trend of surplus operations that has resulted in significant growth of financial reserves.”
Other factors that contributed to the rating increase include the town’s large and mature tax base, above-average resident wealth, strong financial management, and budgeting, including the management of the town’s debt, pension, and benefits.
Fortuna said the improved rating will allow for lower bonding costs for the town.
“This will save taxpayers money when we go out to bond, which is something we will likely do in the next few years for some projects we have coming up,” Fortuna said.
Fortuna said he was proud to see the rating increase, particularly due to Moody’s stringent requirements.
“Their ratings upgrade of the town provides solid confirmation of the town’s prudent financial management, steady leadership, and responsible spending. This endorsement of the town’s fiscal strength is great news for our community, and I want to thank our finance director, our department heads, and the dedicated volunteers on our Board of Finance for their thoughtful stewardship of our taxpayer dollars,” Fortuna said in the press release.
In particular, Fortuna pointed out that since he took office, Old Saybrook has increased its rainy-day fund from 5% of the annual budget to 17%.
“In addition, the town has created a robust and transparent budget process, which involves the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance, and all department heads early in the process. The town’s thoughtful long-range approach to budgeting allows the town to take advantage of funding opportunities when they present themselves, saves money through advanced planning for maintenance, and protects the budget from having to react to large, unexpected expenditures,” Fortuna continued in the press release.
The Aa1 rating is the second-highest rating offered by Moody’s. Fortuna said it is unlikely for a town the size of Old Saybrook to ever reach the highest triple-A rating. However, he also noted that Moody’s once told the town it was unlikely they’d ever reach the Aa1 rating.
The Connecticut Audubon Society is hosting a river cruise on Sundays, from Aug. 31 through Sept. 21, with departure from the Essex Steam Train Station, 1 Railroad Avenue. The event includes a roundtrip transportation to the dock on the Essex train and then the trip by boat to see the migratory display. Passengers will experience an avian treat when thousands of tree swallows settle in at sunset on the lower Connecticut River during their fall migration. The scenery can be viewed from three decks on a 70-foot Mississippi-style river boat. Food, a full bar, and restrooms are on board. Tours are about 3 ½ hours in length and range in departure from 3:30 to 5 p.m., with earlier departure times later in the month. Return to the dock is at around 8:30 p.m. The fee is $55. For more information, call 860-767-0660 or visit the day trips link at ctaudubon.org/ecotravel-home.
Cindy Pascale: Working to Build Cultural Connections In Westbrook
Continued from page 2
money goes toward supporting our services. A lot of our events are free or provided at a low cost to Westbrook residents, so anything we can get to help support what we do is very helpful,” Cindy says.
Spaces are still available for the craft fair, and interested vendors can contact the WYFS office at 860-399-9239 to reserve a space.
Prior to working at WYFS Cindy worked in event planning for a luxury hotel. Then the COVID-19 pandemic came.
“Suddenly there were limits to how many people can be in a room and things like that. So, I had to reinvent myself,” Cindy recalls.
Asked what she enjoys most about her job with WYFS, Cindy points to the small daily interactions with different people.
“Seeing the clients when they come in and just chatting with them, even if it’s just asking about plans for the weekend or
the weather. I love that person-to-person interaction. I also like working on events because of my past as an event planner, that part is in my blood,” Cindy says.
In fact, Cindy enjoys her job so much that she has trouble naming an aspect she doesn’t enjoy.
“The staff here is wonderful and so is everyone in the community we partner with. Everyone is just really caring about the community,” Cindy adds.
In her spare time, Cindy enjoys gardening, spending time with her dogs, and “Seeing family as much as I can.”
Cindy grew up in Old Saybrook and now lives in Clinton, but she very much enjoys the community and scenery of Westbrook.
“I like the small community. It reminds me of Old Saybrook when I was growing up. I like that Westbrook still has that small-town character. I can easily get home to Clinton taking the highway, but I usually like to take all backroads and just see what’s going on.”
Connecticut Audubon Society Seeks Volunteers
The Connecticut Audubon Society is in need of volunteers—especially people with boats—for its Osprey Nation Project to help monitor and protect the state’s osprey population. Volunteers will track osprey arrival, nesting success, and departure dates; share findings for Osprey Nation’s interactive osprey map; and collect data that help protect Osprey habitats and guide conservation efforts. For more information, visit ctaudubon.org/steward-sign-up.
Calling All Artists
Spectrum Gallery is seeking submissions from artists and fine artisans for two upcoming events: the Essex Green Summer Arts Festival on Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15, and the Madison Green Autumn Arts Festival on Saturday, Oct. 11, and Sunday, Oct. 12. Artists and fine artisans are invited to submit their work to Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook. For more information, including deadlines and a prospectus, or to register for either festival, email barbara@spectrumart gallery.org or visit the festivals link at spectrumartgallery.org.
Swallow Cruises
Town Council Votes to Resubmit Wastewater Grant Application
By Eric O'Connell
Staff Writer CLINTON
At a special meeting on April 24, the Clinton Town Council voted to resubmit an application for $500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for the design of a downtown wastewater system, reversing an earlier decision not to apply for funding.
Harbor News
On April 18, the published a story detailing the council’s initial decision not to seek CDS funds for 2026. On April 22, the council held a previously scheduled workshop with members of the Water Pollution Control Commission (WPCC) to discuss upcoming water pollution projects. Following that meeting, the town scheduled the April 24 special meeting to formally vote on resubmitting the wastewater funding application.
The council’s unanimous decision to reapply is the latest step in what has been a confusing process over the past month.
Last summer, the town was notified that its application for $500,000 in CDS funding for the design of a wastewater collection system downtown had been approved.
At the April 2 Town Council meeting, Town Manager Michelle Benvigna informed the council that U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal’s office confirmed the federal budget passed by Congress in March did not include funding for Clinton’s project. The bill, which funds the federal government through September, included cuts to previously approved CDS projects, affecting communities nationwide.
Benvigna told the council that the town had the opportunity to reapply by April 14 and noted that previously approved projects like Clinton’s would be given priority consideration in the 2026 cycle, although selection was not guaranteed.
Despite the option to reapply, a motion to resubmit the application failed in a split vote. Republicans Chris Aniskovich, Mike Shove, and Dennis Donovan, along with Democrat Chris Passante, voted against the motion. Democrats Brian Roccapriore and Hank Teskey voted in favor.
At that time, council members expressed interest in pursuing other potential projects that might have a stronger chance of approval, such as proposed upgrades to the Henry Carter Hull Library.
However, at the April 16 meeting, Benvigna reported that she had received an email the night before informing her that April 27 had been set as the deadline for new applications for 2026 CDS funding—much sooner than initially expected.
Benvigna said the short notice left the town without enough time to prepare a new
project application. Even the proposed library upgrades, considered the most viable alternative, had not yet been formally approved by the council. It appeared the town would not be applying for any CDS money in 2026.
Following the WPCC workshop, Benvigna said the council agreed it was worthwhile to resubmit the wastewater application rather than miss the funding opportunity altogether.
Benvigna also clarified that the previously cited April 14 deadline had been given to the town in error, and the town was not prohibited from resubmitting the wastewater application.
WPCC Chairman Matthew Kennedy told the after the special meeting that he was “happy with the outcome” of the council’s decision and was “cautiously optimistic” that Clinton would receive the funds next year.
“I believe lawmakers on both sides want to bring something back to their constituents, and this funding will be back,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy added that if the town’s application is approved and the money awarded, Clinton would have a clearer final cost estimate for the overall project.
Key to Downtown Revitalization
Revitalizing Clinton’s downtown has been a long-stated goal of both citizens and town officials.
When the wastewater design funding approval was first announced in August 2024, officials expressed hope that the project would help boost downtown development and protect local waterways.
At the time, Kennedy explained that limitations on septic system capacity—due to small lot sizes, shallow bedrock, and poor soil—restricted what types of businesses could open downtown. A larger wastewater system, he said, would expand development possibilities and attract desired businesses such as restaurants and housing. Preliminary site testing for a larger system had shown promising results, Kennedy said.
“To attract the kinds of businesses people want, you have to have the infrastructure in place,” Kennedy said last year.
Environmental benefits were also a major consideration. A new wastewater system would help protect the Indian River, which flows through downtown and is vital to the health of the harbor, beach, and shellfishing zones. It would also help the town comply with a longstanding state consent order to address wastewater issues dating back to the 1990s.
OS to Vote on $52.8M Budget at May 13 Referendum
Staff Writer By Eric O'Connell
Old Saybrook voters will head to the polls on Monday, May 13, to approve or reject a proposed $52,843,415 town and education budget for the 2024–’25 fiscal year.
The total proposed budget represents a $1,403,369 increase, or 2.72%, over the current year’s budget. It is composed of a $21,995,977 town budget and a $30,847,438 Board of Education budget. Voters will have the option to vote on the town and education budgets separately.
Polls will be open from 12 to 8 p.m. at Old Saybrook Senior High School.
Finance Director Lee Ann Palladino said she expects the mill rate to increase by 0.30 mills to 15.50 if the proposed budget is approved.
“There are factors that may change between now and the official setting of the mill rate that could alter this rate estimate,” Palladino added.
Palladino attributed the budget increase primarily to rising costs for salaries and employee benefits, including health insurance.
Capital projects included in the budget focus on improvements to town parks and facilities.
“There will be several projects associated with upgrading the town’s parks, including the addition of game tables, scoreboards, and water fountains. The budget also contemplates purchasing equipment for the transfer station and a new vehicle,” Palladino said.
First Selectman Carl Fortuna praised the collaboration between
departments throughout the budget development process.
“The mill rate increase is probably one of the lowest in the surrounding communities,” Fortuna said. “We accomplished this in close collaboration between the selectmen, the schools, and the Board of Finance.”
Superintendent of Schools Chris Drezek said the education budget maintains current services and adds one new position.
“Basically, the board’s request is simply maintaining what we currently have and the addition of an associate principal at Goodwin to accommodate the needs of the students, as well as it being our largest school,” Drezek said.
Budgets in Old Saybrook are typically non-controversial. At last year’s referendum, the town budget passed with 168 votes in favor and 20 against, while the education budget passed 158 to 28.
Palladino noted that the town’s budgeting stability was one of the reasons Moody’s Investors Service recently upgraded the town’s credit rating.
“In discussing the reasons for the upgrade, Moody’s cited high financial reserve growth, a decrease in long-term obligations of the town—which include pension obligations and outstanding debt. They also noted that strong budget practices and governance were a significant driver of the rating increase,” she said.
Copies of the proposed budget are available on the town website, at the town clerk’s office, and at Acton Public Library.
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 fouryear 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. The deadline for applications is Saturday, May 10. For more information or to obtain an application form, email Susan Schreck at suebschreck@gmail.com.
Lucy Rathbone Elliot Memorial Scholarship
Harbor News
The Culinary Class of Morgan prepared and served desserts for members of American Legion Post 66 and others on April 11. Pictured are Jim Lane, Legion organizer; Morgan's culinary students; and Susan Murphy, culinary class teacher.
American Legion Post 66 Hosts Dessert Night by the Culinary Class of Morgan
On April 11, the Culinary Class of Morgan—a group of students at The Morgan School in Clinton—prepared a delicious assortment of desserts which were served over a two-hour period to a group of parents, residents, and members of American Legion Post 66, totaling about 80 people all together.
Interspersed with the serving of desserts, there were a large number of door and raffle prizes which were drawn after having been donated by many local businesses. The proceeds will benefit the American Legion Post 66 Scholarship fund. The 2025 scholarship recipient will be announced at the Morgan Senior Awards Night event on Wednesday, May 28.
Historical Society Seeks Members
The Westbrook Historical Society, 1196 Boston Post Road, is open on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon, or by appointment. The society meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. New members and volunteers are welcome. For more information, email westbrookhistoricalsocietyct@gmail.com.
LEGAL NOTICE
CALL OF SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Town Meeting of the electors and citizens qualified to vote in Town Meetings of the Town of Old Saybrook will be held at the Old Saybrook Middle School, 60 Sheffield Street, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The town meeting shall consider the following:
1. To approve $22 thousand from the capital non-recurring fund (3350) and transfer said funds to the off-budget fund 7226 “accounting system” for the purpose of upgrading the E-Finance accounting system for the Town and Board of Education.
2. To approve $10,855 from the town’s capital non-recurring fund 3350, a 50% match to a Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Urban and Community Forestry Planning grant, for the purpose of performing a tree inventory at various locations in town.
Signed by: Carl P. Fortuna, Jr., First Selectman
Scott Giegerich, Selectman
Matthew Pugliese, Selectman
Dated at Old Saybrook, Connecticut, this 22nd day of April, 2025.
ATTEST: Sarah V. Becker, Town Clerk
DECISION LEGAL NOTICE
TOWN OF WESTBROOK ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
The Zoning Board of Appeals met on 23 April 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Multi-Media Room of the Teresa Mulvey Municipal Center, 866 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT. The following actions were taken:
Appeal No. 2025-002 – Appeal of Alan Wasley, owner/applicant; Robert Doane, Jr., P.E., L.S., agent. Property located on Old Mail Trail, further identified on Assessor’s Map 195, Parcel 43, HDR Zone, FPOD Zone, LIMWA Zone. Variances requested from Zoning Regulations Section 2.C.2.4 of 50’ required, 5’ requested; Section 11.C same lot required, separate lot requested. Variances requested to construct an elevated, FEMA compliant generator. CAM Required GRANTED
Appeal No. 2025-003 – Appeal of James and Catherine Intravia, owners/applicants; Edward Cassella, Esq., agent. Property located at 32 Elm Avenue, further identified on Assessor’s Map 196, Parcel 003, HDR Zone, FPOD Zone, LIMWA Zone. Variances requested from Zoning Regulations Section 2.C.2.3 of 35’ required, 27.4’ requested; Section 2.C.2.2 of 10’ required, 8.6’ requested; Section 8.D.3.2 non-conforming. Variances requested for a 279sf vertical expansion. CAM Required GRANTED
Appeal No. 2025-004 – Appeal of Richard and Barbara McGinley, Trustees, owners/applicants; Robert Doane, Jr., P.E., L.S., agent. Property located at 62 Menunketesuck Road, further identified on Assessor’s Map 188, Parcel 114, HDR Zone, FPOD Zone. Variances requested from Zoning Regulations Section 2.C.2.2 of 10’ required, 5.2’ requested to the building on the east, 6.4’ requested to the AC unit on the west; Section 2.C.2.3 of 35’ required, 18.9’ requested; Section 2.C.2.4 of 50’ required, 21’ requested. Variances requested due to non- compliance of previously granted Appeal 2021-007. CAM Required WITHDRAWN
Appeal No. 2025-005 – Appeal of Joseph Gionfriddo, owner/applicant; Edward Cassella, Esq., agent. Property located on Old Mail Trail, further identified on Assessor’s Map 195, Parcel 57, HDR Zone, FPOD Zone, LIMWA Zone. Variance requested from Zoning Regulations Section 2.C.2.2 of 10’ required, 3.6’ requested on the west. Variance requested to tear down 20’ x 21’ garage and construct 24’ x 30’ garage. CAM Required DENIED
Appeal No. 2025-006 – Appeal of Anthony Garofalo, Trustee, owner/applicant; Edward Cassella, Esq., agent.Property located at 137 Second Avenue, further identified on Assessor’s Map 181, Parcel 118, HDR Zone, FPOD Zone, LIMWA Zone. Variances requested from Zoning Regulations Section 2.C.2.2 of 10’ required, 3.8’ requested to the gutter, 4.9’ requested to the house on the west; 3.8’ requested to the HVAC, 5.5’ requested to the gutter, 6.6’ requested to the house on the east. Variances requested to tear down existing 2,131sf house plus 448sf garage and build a FEMA compliant 2,800sf house. CAM Required GRANTED
Bonnie Hall, Chairman Zoning Board of Appeals
Photo courtesy of Phil Sengle
Press Release from Phil Sengle
Town Asks Court to Evict Westbrook Ambulance Association From HQ
Continued from page 1
according to the state’s judicial website. The town revised its complaint in early April, and a trial date has been scheduled for April 28 in Middletown Superior Court (after press time for this article).
“Even after the leadership changed at the WAA, the town worked diligently to try and negotiate a new lease agreement with the WAA. Their response to our requests for greater oversight from the town was met with complete and absolute defiance and opposition. Their proposal was woefully inadequate, and it is clear that they do not want town oversight because they know that the long-term viability of their organization is akin to a house of cards,” Herbst said in part.
In the press release, First Selectman John Hall said, “For the better part of 15 years, the town of Westbrook has tried to work collaboratively with the WAA in seeking information that is relevant to their operations and ability to meet public safety needs for the town of Westbrook. The information we have requested should be information disclosed to the town and its residents. Instead, for the better part of fifteen years, the WAA has engaged in a persistent game of hide the ball.”
According to the statement, the actions taken by the WAA since the allegations became public have made members of both political parties in town express serious concern, especially as the actions have cost the town money.
“The town of Westbrook had to incur significant cost to bail out the WAA, and
the WAA’s recent posture with the town in lease negotiations was the straw that broke the camel’s back. One thing is clear — in all of my years of service to this town, there has never been such bipartisan, universal support among town officials to take the actions we are taking,” Hall continued.
Per the release, the town’s Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance have granted Herbst the authority to “pursue additional civil remedies, beyond the present eviction action, on behalf of the town to recover costs incurred by the town as a result of the WAA’s actions to date.”
With the lawsuit ongoing, the release said the town is seeking to partner with other emergency service providers to cover the town in case of medical emergencies.
“I want to assure all residents of Westbrook that the actions we are taking are rooted in our most solemn obligation to protect the health and safety of our town residents. My administration has already been in discussions with third-party emergency medical service providers. In addition to our current mutual aid, we intend to make sure that we continue to meet the public safety and emergency medical service needs of our residents. Public safety takes priority over politics, personal agendas or bruised egos. The town has been left with no choice but to take legal action to hold the WAA accountable for its conduct to date,” Hall said.
Westbrook Board of Finance Chairman Paul Winch contacted the separately to echo those thoughts. “Honestly, I wish we could close [the WAA] Harbor News
down tomorrow. It is a travesty they are licensed to provide emergency medical care.”
The WAA Weighs In
Mary Mintel Miller, an attorney representing the WAA, reached out to the Harbor News on April 22 after the publication of this article online to dispute some of Herbst’s claims. Notably, Miller said it is the WAA’s view that the town was not a legal guarantor of the mortgage and therefore was not obligated to pay off the debt. Miller also pushed back on the town’s claim that the WAA had not turned over requested documents.
“In short, the town was not obligated to pay off the debt and did so without consulting the WAA, and now seems to want to punish the WAA for what was either an embarrassing mistake or an act of generosity that it now regrets. Despite the strangeness of the situation, the WAA has offered repeatedly to repay the town, and has even willingly provided the information requested by the Town’s auditors, but simply does not want the Town to control it,” Miller said in part.
The two parties are due in court April 28 (after press time for this article).
The History
Concerns about the WAA’s finances go back years. Herbst said the town had even found correspondence dating back to 2010 requesting financial information that was supposed to be filed with the Department of Public Health but was never provided.
Still, the town did not realize just how
Westbrook Middle School Earns Spotlight School Designation
Continued from page 3
formative assessment and continuous improvement, and Portrait of a Graduate.
In terms of creative and innovative learning experiences, Westbrook Middle School offers engaging programs such as the Logic Block, where students participate in purposeful social, emotional, and teambuilding activities. The WIN Block provides both intervention and enrichment opportunities, ensuring that every student is supported in their learning journey. The school also hosts an annual Discovery Project, with this year’s topic focusing on “Agents of Change.”
For student voice and engagement, a student panel during the site visit demonstrated that students at Westbrook feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings about their school, underscoring the school’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment.
In regard to restorative practices in discipline, Westbrook Middle School’s approach to discipline is rooted in restorative practices, helping to foster positive student relationships and personal growth.
In terms of outstanding attendance, the school boasts
an impressive attendance rate of over 95%. Westbrook’s administration, teachers, and support team work together to ensure that students are present and engaged and that families stay informed about both their child’s attendance and the importance of regular, daily attendance.
For formative assessment and continuous improvement, Westbrook uses STAR testing three times a year, providing valuable, formative assessment data to guide instructional and curricular decisions. The NELMS committee noted that teachers commonly checked for understanding in the classrooms they visited and recognized a culture of formative assessment in all grades.
In regard to Portrait of a Graduate, the skills and attributes of the district’s Portrait of a Graduate are prominently displayed throughout the school, ensuring that students are aware of and can articulate the competencies and values which guide their educational journey.
Dr. Kristina Martineau, superintendent of Westbrook Public Schools, feels proud that Westbrook Middle School has been recognized as one of a select number of top middle schools in New England to receive this NELMS Spotlight School distinction.
deep the problems at WAA were until the summer of 2024. Town officials were shocked when an appraiser contacted the town in July to inquire as to what could be done with the WAA headquarters property at 1316 Boston Post Road if the bank reclaimed it.
“Shortly thereafter, the town was served with the foreclosure action. The mortgage was in default for more than a year, and at no time did [Former Chief Gregg Prevost] make the first selectman or any other town official aware of this fact,” Herbst explained in 2024.
While the ambulance association is not a town entity, the headquarters is owned by the town and leased to the WAA. In 2008, the WAA applied for a mortgage with KeyBank, with the town as an additional guarantor.
An internal review by Herbst and other Westbrook officials showed that the WAA had not filed taxes with the Internal Revenue Service for several years, and the association also appeared to have lost its 501(c)(3) status.
At a town meeting on Aug. 22, 2024, residents voted to appropriate an amount not to exceed $163,000 to pay off the outstanding mortgage with KeyBank on the WAA headquarters. The move was needed since having the property be foreclosed on could affect the town’s bond and credit rating, according to Herbst. Residents also approved spending up to $75,000 to hire the firm Sansiveri, Kimball & Co. LLP to conduct a forensic audit of WAA.
“There is a strong culture of and pervasive, tireless commitment to high-quality instruction each and every day in all classrooms for all students that is more than just educational rhetoric, data, and annual public reports. Our educators are actively engaged in ongoing, collaborative development of exceptional educational experiences to improve individual, grade-level, and content-area learning opportunities for all students, meeting regularly in teams to make sure every one of the students in our care are provided with the best support and enrichment to maximize potential and success,” Martineau said. “There is a clear and undeniable culture of, ‘We take care of every single child and one another,’ to grow together and to succeed together as a school community at high levels. There is not only a shared and collective sense of student and educator success, but one of deep care, joy, and inspiration to be our best selves and to lift up others to achieve the same. This has a direct and positive impact on climate and supports a strong sense of belonging and community for all. The Westbrook school community and the Westbrook Board of Education are so proud of the excellent work happening at Westbrook Middle School in service to the children of Westbrook.”
Who Can Resist Snickers?
Story by Carol Andrecs
Who Can Resist Snickers?
Beautiful Snickers was passed from house to house, confused as to who would love and care for her for the rest of her life. Through no fault of her own, this colorful tortoiseshell has endured too many upsetting changes and longs to feel safe and secure. Would you open your heart and home to Snickers and offer her permanent, unconditional love? Come meet this sweet and affectionate girl at our open house or apply to adopt her online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.
Find your match at Forgotten Felines
Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary.
Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your
Photo by Tracye Mueller
time, it will be very rewarding and much appreciated. Call the volunteer line at 860669-1347 or send an email to volunteerinfo@forgottenfelinesct.org.
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.
Clinton Memorial Day Parade
The American Legion and VFW invite all veterans in Clinton to march in the town’s Memorial Day parade Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m. Marchers assemble at the Clinton Post Office Square at 10:40 a.m. The parade steps off and proceeds to the Lower Green for the town ceremonies. No uniform is required. Prior to the parade, wreathlaying events take place at the following sites: Beaverbrook Cemetery, 8:55 a.m.; Clinton Police Department, 9:15 a.m.; St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, 9:30 a.m.; Town Hall Monument, 10 a.m.; Indian River Cemetery, 10:10 a.m.; and Clinton Fire Department/Indian River Bridge, 10:30 a.m. For more information, contact Joe Diedrich at 203-901-0945 or joseph.s.diedrich1.civ@us.navy.mil.
for
LEGAL NOTICE - TOWN OF CLINTON BUDGET REPORT PROPOSED 2025-2026 BUDGET AS RECOMMENDED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 BUDGET REFERENDUM MAY 14, 2025 FROM 6:00 AM TO 8:00 PM
ESTIMATED REVENUES
BUDGETED EXPENDITURES
2023-24 2024-25 2025-26
ACTUAL APPROVED TOWN COUNCIL EXPENDITURES BUDGET ADOPTED
2023-24 2024-25 2025-26
ACTUAL APPROVED TOWN COUNCIL
2023-24 2024-25 2025-26
ACTUAL APPROVED TOWN COUNCIL
EXPENDITURES BUDGET ADOPTED
2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 ACTUAL APPROVED TOWN COUNCIL EXPENDITURES BUDGET ADOPTED
EXPENDITURE SUMMARY
NOTE: THE TOWN OF CLINTON 2025-26 BUDGET BOOK CAN BE FOUND ON THE TOWN WEBSITE AT: HTTPS://CLINTONCT.ORG/DOCUMENTCENTER/VIEW/14995/2025-26-TOWN-COUNCIL-RECOMMENDED-BUDGET-FOR -PUBLIC-HEARING THE BOARD OF EDUCATION 2025-26 BUDGET BOOK CAN BE FOUND ON THE BOE WEBSITE AT: HTTPS://WWW.CLINTONPUBLIC.NET/DISTRICT/BOARD_OF_EDUCATION/BUDGETS/2025-2026_BUDGET TOWN CHARTER SECTION 10-3 LAYING OF TAXES.
A. NOT MORE THAN 15 DAYS AFTER THE ADOPTION OF THE ANNUAL TOWN BUDGET, THE TOWN COUNCIL AND THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE SHALL MEET AND LEVY THE TAX RATE ON THE TAXABLE PROPERTY OF THE TOWN SUFFICIENT TO PROVIDE FOR THE BUDGET ESTIMATES AS FINALLY APPROVED.
Free Online and In-Person GED Program
Middletown Adult Education offers a free online or in-person GED program to residents of Old Saybrook, Madison, and Westbrook as well as Regional District #4 (Chester, Deep River, Essex, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton) and Regional District #17 (Haddam, Higganum, and Killingworth). Adult education offers free high school completion programs, GED tutoring and English as a second language classes to area residents. The program provides instruction for participants to learn the skills necessary for employment. In-person classes take place at the Middletown Adult Education, 210 Main Street, Old Saybrook or at 398 Main Street, Middletown. For more information, call 860-343-6044 or visit www.maect.org.
LEGAL NOTICE
ANNUAL TOWN BUDGET MEETING TOWN OF WESTBROOK, CONNECTICUT
The legal voters of the Town of Westbrook, Connecticut and all others qualified to vote in meetings of the said Town are hereby notified and warned that the Annual Town Budget Meeting, established pursuant to Section 7-388 of the Connecticut General Statutes, will be held in the Westbrook High School Auditorium, 156 McVeagh Road, Westbrook, Connecticut, on Monday, May 12, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. to act on the following maters:
1. To consider and act upon the adoption of the Annual Town Budget for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, as estimated and recommended by the Board of Finance pursuant to Section 7-344 of the Connecticut General Statutes, in the amount of $35,344,014.
2. To determine and designate, pursuant to Section 12-142, 12-144 and 12-144a, of the Connecticut General Statutes, that taxes levied on said budget will be due any payable as follows:
a. All motor vehicle tax bills will be due and payable in fully on July 1, 2025.
b. All real estate and personal property tax bills $100.00 or less will be due and payable in full on July 1, 2025.
c. Real estate and personal property tax bills over $100.00 may be paid in two installments with one half due July 1, 2025 and one half due on January 1, 2026.
3. To approve the Fiscal Year 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan in the amount of $2,581,550 for year one.
“In accordance with American with Disabilities Act, Final Rule 1994 for State and Local Government Facilities, Special Accommodations will be provided upon notification to agency within a reasonable time of such need.”
Town of Clinton Planning & Zoning Commission
54 East Main Street Clinton, CT 06413
Legal Notice of Public Hearing
Town of Clinton in the Town Hall Green Room
The Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following:
PZC-25-4: Special Exception to construct an additional 24 unit apartment building pursuant to Section 27.1.14 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, Planned Residential Development pursuant to C.G.S. §8-30g at 5 Liberty Place, Map 53, Block 54, Lot 14, Zone R-60 Applicant: CLA Engineers Inc.
PZC-25-5: Special Exception for Coffee/Tea House pursuant to Section 27.2.31(a) of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 130 East Main Street, Map 68, Block 65, Lot 8, Zone East Main Village District. Applicant: Heather Wright.
PZC-25-7: Special Exception and Coastal Site Plan to permit a liquor store pursuant to Section 27.2.26 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, and additional uses including retail and fourteen residential units pursuant to C.G.S. §8-30g at 327 East Main Street, Map 85, Lot 69, Block 121, Zone B-4. Applicant: Fedus Engineering, LLC.
At said Hearing, all persons will have the right to be heard. The application(s) and correspondence are available for public inspection at https://clintonct.portal.opengov.com/records/20889
Anyone requiring special accommodation to participate in the public meeting should contact the Land Use Office at 860-669-6133. Michael Rossi, Chairman, Town of Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission.
By Maria Cipriano
Sports Reporter
Valley/Westbrook Baseball Looking to Make Deep Postseason Run
The Valley Regional/Westbrook baseball team has set its sights high for the 2025 season. With goals of possessing championship hardware as the campaign comes to a close, the Warriors are primed and ready to tackle any challenges that come their way.
With a schedule full of tough adversaries, Head Coach Patrick Sirois, who is in the midst of his second season at the helm, has seen his team stay competitive in the early going.
“We are off to a 6-2 start - we had a few tough opponents in the beginning of the year. Our two losses were close games - we were in both games,” said Sirois. “In terms of the wins, we have had very strong hitting and great pitching. We beat the likes of some of the bigger schools so far: Cromwell, Morgan, and East Hampton.”
In the Warriors’ first loss this spring, they were defeated in extra innings (10) by North Branford 10-9. In the second loss, the Warriors fell to Haddam-Killingworth 7-5. Despite coming up short, the boys showed their resilience and ability to give any squad a run for their money, and the strong leadership of their captains plays a large role in that.
Leading the team this season are Braden Karcich (senior, pitcher), Jack McPherson (senior, outfielder), and Caleb Winkley (senior, catcher). Their knowledge and experience of the game help their team to stay competitive and hungry day in and day out.
“Braden and Caleb were captains last year as well. Braden is the ace of our pitching staff. We are expecting him to get the ball once a week - he started off the season, and so far, he’s 3-0,” said Sirois. “Caleb is our catcher, and we are expecting him to be a leader - last year he had a really
first baseman) are some of the returning players that Sirois looks to be top contributors for the Warriors in the second half of the season to help work towards that competitive record.
“Kyle is one of the best defensive shortstops in the league and a clear top hitter for us. Caleb is someone that I am expecting a lot out of. James Brzozowy is a good team leader and positive role model on and off the field,” said Sirois. “Ben Stosse and Tristan Champagne - both senior pitchers who start for us. Chase King is another returning first basemanwe are looking for him to have a good year at the plate for us as well.”
In the postseason a year ago, the Warriors lost in the first round of the state tournament to Northwestern by a final score of 7-6, and they fell to Morgan in the first round of the Shoreline Athletic Conference (SLC) Tournament by a few runs.
solid team, and we are expecting him to have another solid season behind the plate and hitting, as well. Jack is the top-of-our-lineup hitter - he bats second for us and is a solid outfielder. We are looking for the three of them to be lead-by-example type of guys, doing the right things on and off the field.”
On April 14, the Warriors hosted Cromwell and won 4-2. In the bottom of the second inning, Ben Stosse (senior, outfielder) hit a double that scored a run, and McPherson singled to drive in two runs. Kyle Leandri (sophomore, shortstop) hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth to tack on another run. Karcich earned a win for the War-
riors on the mound, giving up four hits and two runs over seven innings with three strikeouts and one walk.
Two days later, Valley/Westbrook traveled to LymeOld Lyme and won 17-7. In the top of the fourth inning, Logan Prue (junior, third base), Patrick Finnegan (junior, second base), and Winkley hit singles, and Leandri hit a double to tie the game. Stosse earned a win on the bump, giving up six hits and two runs over four innings. He added two strikeouts and one walk. The Warriors tallied 13 hits in the contest, Winkley had three runs batted in (RBIs), and Leandri had three hits at the top of the lineup. Winkley, Prue, McPherson, and
Leandri stole multiple bases, adding to the team’s total number of 14.
Last spring, the Warriors finished 9-11 in the regular season. This year, they returned every player from last year except for one senior.
“We have high expectations for competing for the Shoreline Championship and making a run in the state tournament,” said Sirois. “We are looking to build on that 9-11 from last year substantially with bringing all of our varsity pitching and all of our top hitters back from last year.”
Leandri, Winkley, Stosse, Tristan Champagne (senior, pitcher), James Brzozowy (senior, outfielder), and Chase King (junior,
“The goals we have for the team this year are to be a top seed in the Shoreline Tournament and compete for the Shoreline Championship, as well as to have a record above .500. We also want to have a good seed going into the state tournament and make a deep run in that as well,” said Sirois. “We have the pitching and returning hitting to make a leap this year. We are certainly confident in our ability to perform at that level.”
In the coming weeks, the co-op squad will have a seven-game stretch against some of the top teams in the SLC, along with two out-of-conference games against Class L schools.
“We play Haddam-Killingworth, Morgan, and North Branford along with South Windsor, who is a LL school. It will be a good judge of where we stand in that stretch. Our outlook on those
See Valley page 21
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News
Caleb Winkley is a senior captain for the Valley/Westbrook baseball team this spring.
Boys’ Tennis, Girls’ Tennis Split the Week
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
Girls’ Tennis
The Westbrook girls’ tennis team hosted Old Lyme on April 23 and took a 6-1 loss. The high spot of the match was Megan Bache remaining undefeated at No. 1 singles, as she earned a 6-1,6-3 victory.
The next day, the Knights traveled to North Branford and won 6-1. The high spot was the No. 3 doubles team of Jonna Davis and Chloe Erekson winning their first match together as a doubles pair (6-2,7-6(8-6), and Alexa Kiss grinding out a win at No. 3 singles. She is normally a No. 4 singles player, and she took almost 3-and-a-half hours before securing the win 4-6,7-5,7-6 (6-3). Other singles victories came from Bache at No. 1 (6-0, 6-0) and Giovanna Silva at No. 2 (6-1,6-0).
For doubles, Emily Bonner and Neave Hinckley earned a win at No. 1 (6-1,6-0), and Adriana Spash and Reagan Zambrello won 6-0,6-1 at No. 2.
Wr a ps KNIGHTS
Boys’ Tennis
The Westbrook boys’ tennis team hosted Grasso Tech on April 21 and won 7-0. Miles Hayden won 6-0, 6-1 at No. 1 singles, and Yareth Antunez won 6-4, 6-1 at No. 2 singles. At No. 3 singles, Evan Lessard won 6-4, 6-1, and in the No. 4 singles spot, Ryan Sacco won 6-4, 6-6.
For doubles, Karl Schilling and Aiden Otrin won 6-2, 6-1 at No. 1 doubles. Nicky English and Griffin Donley won 6-2, 6-6 at No. 2 doubles, and David Ponce and Michael Ponce won 6-3, 6-2 at No. 3 doubles.
Two days later, the team traveled to old Lyme and lost 5-2. Hayden won 6-3, 6-4 at No. 1 singles, and Sacco won 6-3, 6-2 at No. 4 singles.
Boys’ Lacrosse Wins Two, Boys’ Tennis Loses a Trio
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
Last week saw the Old Saybrook boys’ lacrosse team rack up two more wins, as the team accelerated to its best start in program history. At 6-0, the team is on pace to qualify for the conference and state playoffs.
“This team has surprised me,” said Head Coach Jon Mason. “We’re gritty, we’ve got more heart, and I am not sure we’ve found our high gear yet.”
On April 22, the Rams took on Cromwell and came away with a 23-3 victory. Seniors Wes Percival and Brendan Cassella and junior Finn Speed each scored five goals. Freshman Lucas Beckner scored three goals. Chase Percival, Brandon Hester, Ethan Lane, Grey Richards, and Liam Roberts each had one goal, and junior Kevin Susi recorded one shot and one assist. Goalie Jonathan Craparo made three saves, while Charlie Dee made two.
On April 24, the Rams took on conference rival Valley, and after being down by four goals, they came back to record a 1312 victory. Led by senior captain Wes Percival (four goals, four assists, and 7/14 in face-offs), who often took on multiple Warrior defenders in his path to putting the ball in the net, the Rams got off to a slow start.
Old Saybrook’s defense did an excellent job protecting goalie Craparo, who made
Wr a ps RAMS
12 saves in the game and rose to the occasion with exceptional clearing passes, leading to 83% successful clears. Also noteworthy were the Rams attackmen, who pressed the Valley team and caused seven of their clears to fail.
“This was a big game for us,” Mason said. “Our team was again against the ropes, down by four, and credit to the boysthey never gave up. They were patientthey believed we’d prevail and trusted each other enough to see it come true. This is a remarkable group of players.”
Crew
The Old Saybrook/Valley Regional co-op crew team raced against Old Lyme and Avon on April 23. The Girls Novice 4 (GN4) took third place, and the Boys Novice 4 (BN4) placed fourth. The Girls Second Varsity 4 (G2V4) took second, and the Boys Second Varsity 4 (B2V4) also placed second. The Girls 1st Varsity 4 (G1V4) earned first place, and the Boys 1st Varsity 4 (B1V4) placed second.
Boys’ Tennis
On April 21, Old Saybrook boys’ tennis traveled to Valley Regional and fell 5-1.
Senior captain Wes Percival recorded four goals and four assists while going 7/14 in faceoffs in Old Saybrook boys' lacrosse's recent win vs. rival Valley Regional.
The lone win came from Beni Misenti and Teddy Chacha at No. 2 doubles (7-5, 7-5).
On April 24, the team hosted Grasso Tech and lost 4-3. Dylan Cohen earned a win at No. 3 singles (6-4, 7-5), and Peyton Mazzullo won at No. 4 singles 6-0, 6-4.
On the doubles side, Nico Sokolowski and Carlos Velez Torres won 6-4, 7-5 at No. 1.
The Rams closed out the week vs. Morgan on April 25 and took a 7-0 loss.
Girls’ Tennis
On April 21, the Old Saybrook girls’ tennis team hosted Valley Regional and fell 61. Michele Spozhnikov won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 1 singles.
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News
Megan Bache is undefeated on the season so far for Westbrook girls' tennis in the No. 1 singles spot.
Boys’ Lacrosse
Photo courtesy of Meg Susi
Lane Making an Impact On and Off the Field as Three-Sport Athlete for Old Saybrook
Gabriella Tomaino
It’s not every day that you come across a high school athlete that not only excels on the field, but also in the community. When it comes to senior and three-sport athlete Ethan Lane, however, you can be sure that he checks all the boxes. Ethan’s dedication and leadership have propelled Old Saybrook’s athletic programs to new heights.
Ethan has played sports his whole life, and since arriving at Old Saybrook High School, he has not missed a single season. In the fall, Ethan suits up on the gridiron with the Old Saybrook/Morgan/Westbrook co-op football team. When the winter rolls around, you’ll find him making plays on the basketball court. But the sport that really has Ethan’s heart is lacrosse, a sport in which he thrives in on a daily basis as a senior for the Rams this spring.
“I love this team,” Ethan says. “I could talk about them all day.”
Last season, the Rams’ lacrosse team brought home its first ever Shoreline Conference title in program history, one that would not have been possible without the sacrifice of Ethan. Growing up, he dedicated countless hours to his faceoff technique, whether it was practicing solo or even going to specialized training to help him perfect his craft. But two years
Sports
Person Week of the
ago, everything changed.
“He saw that we needed defenders, so he changed positions and started something brand new, which had a steep learning curve,” says Old Saybrook boys’ lacrosse Head Coach Jon Mason. “Ethan is an unsung hero. They never really get mentioned too much with the goals, assists, or any of the other kinds of press that we might send to you. But he’s selfless, and I think far too often we overlook that quality.”
During Old Saybrook’s 2024 conference championship run, Ethan notched 42 ground balls, forced 11 turnovers, and added an assist, reinforcing his status as a key contributor on defense and earning himself the title of Defensive Player of the Year.
Now in his senior season, Ethan has already tallied one goal, one caused turnover, and one ground ball, as he tries to lead his 7-0 squad in its pursuit of a second-straight conference championship.
“We changed up our defense this year. We now transition from zone to man on the fly,” Mason explains. “I rely 100% on Ethan
to make the call and to make sure everyone else knows what defense we’re in. We’re even better this year than last, and Ethan is a big reason for that.”
Ethan stepped up and continues to showcase his team first mentality, etching his name into Old Saybrook Athletics history. But his story doesn’t just end between the bounds of the lacrosse field. Ethan’s impact on the community is just as undeniable as his athletic abilities.
Outside of sports, Ethan is a frequent face at the Saybrook Soup Kitchen, where he donates much of his time providing food and fellowship to those in need.
“My dad initially brought me to volunteer,” Ethan explains. “I kept going back with him and eventually started going consistently. It’s awesome to get to help out, but also crazy to see the amount of people struggling to find food.”
Beyond volunteering at the soup kitchen, Ethan also serves as a peer tutor as well as mentor for special needs children. He has made a profound impact on the individuals that he has worked with, helping them overcome their challenges.
“Over the summer I volunteered at the middle school, where I got to work with special needs kids. I loved it, and that’s what got me to start peer tutoring,” says Ethan. “I never really thought of myself as a teacher,
but now I run the National Honor Society peer tutoring, and I’m currently working with seven students.”
Ethan partakes in all of these extracurriculars while balancing his academics as well. In the classroom, he has maintained excellent academic standing and is sure to have a bright future ahead.
“I’m going to Clemson this fall, and I’m very excited,” says Ethan. “It sounds awesome.”
Clemson has Division I athletics, and although Ethan wasn’t sure about playing at the next level, he got some encouragement from someone he thinks very highly of.
“Coach Mason and I share very similar morals, and we talked about playing football there. He motivated me and told me to go for it, so he might’ve convinced me,” Ethan says. “There’s also
Boys’ Tennis Wins a Trio, Girls’ Tennis Drops a Pair
By Gabby Maljanian
Sports Editor
The Morgan boys’ tennis team hosted Coginchaug on April 21 and won 6-1. The Huskies swept the board in singles, as Nathan Miller won 6-0, 6-1 at No. 1, and Nick Vetrano won 6-0, 6-0 at No. 2. At No. 3 singles, Nate Kinser won 6-1, 6-0, and Andy Alvarez won in a walkover at No. 4.
For doubles, Ryan Gray and Nick Hicks won 6-1, 6-1 at No. 1, and the No. 3 doubles pairing of Hendrick Bausch and Zhen Wu
won 6-0, 6-0. On April 23, the Huskies hosted Valley Regional and won 7-0. Miller won 6-1, 6-0 at No. 1 singles, and Vetrano won 6-2, 6-0 at No. 2 singles. Kinser won by forfeit at No. 3 singles, and Bausch competed at No. 4 singles and won 6-2, 6-1.
For doubles, Gray and Hicks
won 6-1, 6-0 at No. 1, and Mekai Howard and Jude Watson won by forfeit in the No. 2 spot. At No. 3 doubles, Dustin Ly and Wu won by forfeit.
The Huskies wrapped up the week at Old Saybrook/Portland on April 25 and won 7-0. Singles wins came from Miller at No. 1 (61, 6-1), Vetrano at No. 2 (6-0, 6-1), Kinser at No. 3 (6-2, 6-1), and Alvarez at No. 4 (6-0, 6-0).
For doubles, Gray and Hicks won 6-1, 6-1 at No. 1, Howard and Watson won by forfeit at No. 2, and Bausch and Wu won by forfeit at No. 3.
Golf
The Morgan golf team hosted Valley Regional and Waterford on April 21. Waterford scored a 187, Morgan scored a 194, and Valley scored a 212. The low score for the Huskies came from Landon Coley with a 45. The next day, the team traveled to Haddam-Killingworth and took a tight 196-199 loss. Luke McComiskey was the match medalist with a 40, followed by Demani Howard with a 52. Jake Beermuender scored a 53, and Robert Bergman scored a 54.
club lacrosse there, so I may give that a try.”
Although Ethan’s future isn’t set in stone, it’s no secret that he will thrive in whatever environment he comes across. The foundation that Ethan has laid for success is second to none, and even though he won’t be a part of Old Saybrook’s lacrosse team next year, he is sure to hold onto the memories and teachings that the program and overall community bestowed upon him.
“Overall the biggest thing I’ll take with me is to stick to it. I’ve been a part of some teams that went 0-10 in back-to-back seasons, and there’s days when you want to quit, but I’ve never let myself do that, and I’m proud of it,” Ethan shares. “No matter what, sticking with it is what I’ll continue to think about in everything I do.”
On April 23, Morgan hosted Old Saybrook and fell 190-192. McComiskey scored a 44 for the team’s low score.
Girls’ Tennis
The Morgan girls’ tennis team traveled to Coginchaug on April 21 and fell 4-3. On April 23, the team traveled to Valley Regional and took a 6-1 loss. Captain Tessa Gebauer won 6-2, 6-1 at No. 1 singles.
Special to Harbor News
Photo courtesy of Ethan Lane
Senior Ethan Lane is not only a three-sport athlete for Old Saybrook, but he spends his free time making an impact on his community, as well.
Boys’ Tennis
Schedules
MORGAN
Baseball
Monday, May 5: vs. Valley Regional/Westbrook at 3:45 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: at North Branford at 4 p.m.
Boys’ Lacrosse
Saturday, May 3: at Branford at 4:30 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Valley Regional at 6 p.m.
Boys’ Tennis
Monday, May 5: vs. Westbrook at 6 p.m.
Thursday, May 8: at East Catholic at 3:45 p.m.
Girls’ Lacrosse
Tuesday, May 6: vs. Valley Regional at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 8: vs. Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m.
WESTBROOK
Girls’ Tennis
Monday, May 5: vs. Westbrook at 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, May 7: at Portland at 3:45 p.m.
Golf
Monday, May 5: vs. Guilford at 3 p.m.
Tuesday, May 6: at Portland w/ RHAM at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday, May 7: vs. Cromwell at 3 p.m.
Outdoor Track
Tuesday, May 6: at Valley Regional w/ HaddamKillingworth at 3:30 p.m.
Softball
Monday, May 5: vs. Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, May 7: at North Branford at 6 p.m.
Valley/Westbrook Baseball Looking to Make Deep Postseason Run
Continued from page 18
games is that we put them on the schedule because we can compete with them,” said Sirois. “We know they’re going to be a big challenge for us - we knocked one of them off last year, and we got South Windsor who is a larger school than us. We expect to compete in every game that we play, and it’s a good measuring stick for where we want to be before heading into the postseason.”
As the Warriors work toward their goals for the remainder of the campaign, they have the luxury of playing on a new turf field too.
“We have so much appreciation for the new turf baseball field and the work it took to have us be able to play on it. This is the first year that we are playing on it,” said Sirois. “We have the opportunity to play on one of the best facilities, and we are very thankful for this opportunity.”
Valley Regional Warriors Co-op Baseball 2025 Regular Season Results and Schedule
April 5: Valley 14, East Hampton 2
April 8: Valley 8, Morgan 1
April 9: Haddam Killingworth 7, Valley 5
April 11: North Branford 10, Valley 9 (10 innings)
April 14: Valley 4, Cromwell 2
April 16: Valley 17, Old Lyme 7
April 21: Valley 2, Portland 1
April 25: Valley 5, Hale Ray 2
Monday, April 28: at Coginchaug at 4 p.m.
Tuesday, April 29: at Parish Hill at 3:45 p.m.
Wednesday, April 30: vs Old Saybrook at 4 p.m.
Thursday, May 1: at East Hampton at 4 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Morgan at 3:45 p.m.
Friday, May 2: at Whitney Tech at 3:45 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Old Lyme at 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, May 7: vs. Coginchaug at 4 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Morgan at 3:45 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.
Tennis
Saturday, May 3: vs. Coginchaug at 11 a.m. Softball Baseball
Monday, May 5: at Morgan at 6 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 4 p.m.
Girls’ Tennis
Friday, May 2: vs. Coginchaug at 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 5: at Morgan at 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, May 7: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m.
Outdoor Track
Tuesday, May 6: vs. Hale Ray, Cromwell at 3:45 p.m.
Sirois is assisted by Matt Amendola and Derek Hanssen.
The Warriors co-op varsity roster is comprised of Brzozowy, Champagne (Westbrook), Karcich, McPherson, Nathan Rowland (senior, outfield), Stosse (Westbrook), Winkley, Gavin Abderhalden (junior, outfielder), Finnegan, King, Leandri (Westbrook), Kyle Litevich (junior, third base/outfielder, Westbrook), Jacob Knox (sophomore, pitcher), and Brannick Wright (freshman, catcher/second base).
CAPTAIN MORGAN’S
Wednesday, May 7: vs HaddamKillingworth at 3:45 p.m.
Friday, May 9: vs North Branford at 6:30 p.m.
Monday, May 12: at Cromwell at 4 p.m.
Thursday, May 15: vs Tolland at 4 p.m.
Friday, May 16: at South Windsor at 3:45 p.m.
Monday, May 19: vs Stafford at 6 p.m. Wendesday, May 21: at Hillhouse/Career at 4 p.m.
Tuesday, May 6: at Portland w/ North Branford at 4 p.m.
Friday, May 2: vs. Cromwell at 4 p.m.
Monday, May 5: vs. Old Lyme at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: at Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m.
Saturday, May 3: at Saint Bernard-Wheeler at 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, May 6: vs. Old Lyme at 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 8: at Cromwell at 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 3: vs. Waterford at 10 a.m.
Tuesday, May 6: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.
Thursday, May 8: vs. Cromwell at 7 p.m.
Friday, May 2: at Cromwell at 4 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Old Lyme at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: vs. Valley Regional at 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 3: at St. Bernard at 2 p.m.
Monday, May 5: vs. Portland at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: at Hale Ray at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 8: vs. Old Lyme at 4 p.m.
Friday, May 2: at Whitney Tech at 3:45 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Old Lyme at 3:15 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7: vs. Coginchaug at 4 p.m.
Monday, May 5: at Norwich at noon
Tuesday, May 6: at Valley Regional at 3:15 p.m.
Thursday, May 8: vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 3:20 p.m.
A stretch of glorious weather brought anglers and fish together! Within a few days of the blackfish spring season closure, togging picked up. Long Island Sound inshore water temperatures broke 50 degrees to crank up the bite. Schoolie striped bass action quickened its pace, as a few larger migrating fish showed up. Tidal rivers are bursting with activity. Slab white perch are being caught! Inland trout
and bass bites surge while other lake and pond fish from toothy critters to black crappie and other panfish take your bait. Both the fresh and saltwater environments offer outstanding fishing opportunities. For more on the springtime fishing scene, click over to Captain Morgan’s weekly column found on zip06.com. For this week’s feature, search for “No New Striped Bass Rule Changes for 2025.”
WESTBROOK
May 1 to May 7
• Remodeling
Position Summary:
Eastern Connecticut’s leading multimedia company is
HIRING NOW
— SPORTS REPORTER (SHORELINE EDITORIAL) —
The Sports Reporter is responsible for reporting on various sports across the Connecticut shoreline community newspapers. This position requires attending key games and events as needed to deliver engaging and insightful stories that capture the spirit of local athletes and teams. The ideal candidate will excel at conducting interviews with coaches and players, gathering compelling quotes and statistics to enrich coverage. Responsibilities include tracking regular and post-season results and contributing weekly bylined articles.
Essential Duties:
1. Cover a variety of community and high school sports across the Connecticut shoreline community newspapers, attending key games and events as needed.
2. Write engaging and well-researched stories that highlight the achievements of athletes, teams, and coaches.
3. Conduct interviews with coaches, athletes, and other relevant sources to gather compelling quotes and accurate statistics.
4. Track and maintain regular season and postseason results for covered teams.
5. Develop and pitch creative and timely story ideas that extend beyond game recaps.
6. Contribute to weekly roundups, providing summaries and insights on notable performances and outcomes.
7. Maintain a strong presence within the community, fostering relationships with athletes, coaches, and families.
8. Adhere to journalistic standards by ensuring accuracy, fairness, and professionalism in all reporting.
9. Collaborate with the sports editors to refine content and meet publication deadlines.
10. Stay informed about trends and developments in high school sports to enhance coverage and story ideas.
Other Duties: Performs other duties as assigned.
Confidentiality: Maintains confidentiality of all records and information.
Conduct: Always Represents The Day and Shore Publishing Company in a professional and courteous manner.
Dependability: Regularly attend and are punctual for work.
Supervision Received: Reports to Sports Editor.
Supervision Exercised: None.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
- Ability to think strategically.
- A deep understanding of editorial best practices and style guidelines.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficient with text management and desktop publishing software.
- Proficient computer and software skills (i.e. Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Presteligence (Content Management Software).
- Highly motivated, self-starting individual with initiative and drive to succeed.
Send, fax or e-mail qualifications and salary requirements to: The Day Publishing Company • Human Resources Department • 47 Eugene O’Neill Drive, P.O. Box 1231 • New London, CT 06320 r.magyar@theday.com
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. M/F/D/V
•
•
•
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!
Last Week’s Answers
Here’s 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!
TheaterWorks ‘Primary Trust’ Explores Loneliness and Connection
By Karen Isaacs
Friendship, love, fear, and surviving trauma are at the heart of the touching play , which is now at TheaterWorks-Harford through Sunday, May 11.
Primary Trust
It is easy to understand why Eboni Booth’s play won the 2024 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It is heartwarming and truthful.
The play starts with 38-year-old Kenneth (a very fine Justin Weaks) telling us about his apparently mundane life. He works in a bookstore that is closing, and he hangs out at a tiki bar with his friend Bert, where they drink copious amounts of mai tais.
You might wonder where this is going. But give it just a little more time, and you will be hooked. My initial impression was that Kenneth was on the spectrum. This was reinforced when he tells us he has never gotten a job on his own; his social worker has helped him.
Yet, things aren’t what they seem. Bert
may be Kenneth’s best friend, but he is imaginary. Kenneth has a high level of social anxiety, and Bert both coaches him through episodes and provides his only social outlet.
But with the bookstore closing, Kenneth must find another job. That requires interacting with other people. A waitress at the tiki bar suggests he apply to the local bank, The Primary Trust.
One of the best parts of the show is watching Kenneth emerge from his shell; another is learning more about his background. How did he come to be the man we see on stage? Therefore, no more spoilers.
TheaterWorks and director Jennifer Chang have assembled an outstanding four-member cast. Hillary Ward plays a rotating staff of servers at Wally’s, the tiki bar, each mouthing the same lines. Later, she plays the rotating customers that Kenneth, in his new job as a bank teller, deals with. These remind us how often our interactions are rote and meaningless. However, one of the servers, Corrina, slowly emerges as not interchangeable but as a caring human being. Corrina is a
big factor in Kenneth slowly emerging from his cocoon.
Ricardo Chavira also has multiple roles. He makes each one so individual that, at times, you may think it is a different performer. Chavira goes from the bookstore owner to a bartender to a waiter at a French restaurant. But his best role is as Clay, the bank executive who hires and supports Kenneth. Clay can best be described as a “hale fellow well met.”
Bert is a tricky role because he is often silent and reactive, but Samuel Stricklin shows us a caring man who listens. He reminds us how often we don’t listen but just wait until we can speak.
Primary Trust
The success of depends on Justin Weaks as Kenneth. Kenneth often speaks directly to the audience, telling parts of his story and commenting on the small upstate New York town where he lives. He points out that the bookstore location will, in 15 years, have been leveled and replaced by condominiums.
Weaks gives us a Kenneth who is both closed off and vulnerable, timid but courageous and stilted but conversational.
From his first words, we begin to care about this person. Throughout the play, he not only holds our interest but also makes us part of his cheering section. I could hear the audience’s reaction when things worked out for Kenneth.
As we have come to expect, the production values are excellent, from the set design by Nicholas Ponting to the costumes by Danielle Preston, the lighting design by Bryan Ealey, and the sound design by Frederick Kennedy. The latter was particularly outstanding.
Chang has done an excellent job letting Booth’s underlying themes shine through. These themes include the commercialization of personal interactions, as shown in the multiple scenes at Wally’s between customer and server and at the bank between teller and customer. These are sterile and unreal.
Primary
Trust
You will be left pondering the many meanings of the title, . As you learn more about Kenneth, you see what it means to him and the impact of losing it has had on his life.
Tickets are available at TWHartford.org.
Photo by Mike Marques
Photo by Mike Marques
Hilary Ward as Corinna and Justin Weaks as Kenneth.
Justin Weaks as Kenneth.
Special to Living
For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website, www.zip06.com.
THURSDAY, MAY 1
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.
Monthly Author Event: Connecticut Book Festival
:
6:30 p.m. SWF Foundation, 348 E. Main St., Clinton. Gallery social 6:30 p.m., talks 7 p.m. Part of a series featuring three authors and a new genre every month. Genre: Suspense/Thriller. Authors: Sarah Blanchard, Paul Sargia, and L.M. Pampuro. To RSVP, email cathy_weiss@ mac.com. For info, visit swffoundation.com.
Shoreline Sailing Club Open House
: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. For active singles 35 and over. New members are welcome and sailing experience is not necessary. Free admission. BYOB. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.
Concert by Mike DelGuidice
FRIDAY, MAY 2
Opening Reception for
Vincent Giarrano: City Color
: 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. : 5 to 8 p.m. Susan Powell Fine Art, 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison. The exhibit runs through Saturday, May 31. For info, call 203-318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com.
Epicurean Dinner Experience
: 7 to 10 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Features a curated multicourse dinner prepared by a culinary team led by Executive Chef Peter Hamil with wine pairings selected by sommelier Tanya Raisz. Includes Madison Poet Laureate Ed Lent with poetry readings. Wine and beverage pairings included with each course. Attire: Jackets. Cost: $150. Eventbrite fees apply. For info or reservations, visit madisonbeachhotel-curio.eventbrite.com.
Concert by Adam Ezra Group
: 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, MAY 3
Church Tag Sale
: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., Durham. Outdoor tables will have records, tapes, CDs, books, pictures and frames, baskets, electronics, sporting equipment, and miscellaneous tag sale items. Indoor tables will have clothing, toys, jewelry, china, linens, kitchen supplies, craft supplies, and more. Rain or shine. For info, contact 860-349-3058 or maryellend1947@comcast.net.
Annual Marine Craft Show and Swap Meet
: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. West Marine, 1667 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features boat-related products and services, new and used parts and accessories, locally made crafts, jewelry, one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, tools, and more. Includes an all-cash raffle. Hosted by the Hartford Power Squadron. For info, visit Hartfordpowersquadron.org.
Goodness Grow Plant Sale
: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. Features NMCC's fifth annual plant sale with annuals, perennials, hanging plants, and more. Includes gently used garden goods, puzzles, and baked goods. Rain or shine. For info, contact the church at 203-421-3241 or office@northmadisoncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/goodnessgrows.
Rummage Sale
: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. St. Lawrence Church, 7 Hemlock Dr., Killingworth. Features clothes, accessories, bedding, household goods, books, and more. For info, call 860- 663-2576.
Red Cross Blood Drive
: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For info or an appointment, call 1800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.
Clinton Arbor Garden Club Spring Market
: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Abraham Pierson School Green, 75 E. Main St., Clinton. Features the work of regional artisan vendors, club members’ handmade crafts, baked goods, and live plants. Includes live music, silent auction, and an Askthe-Master-Gardener kiosk. Proceeds benefit educational programming, civic beautification projects, and environmental conservation efforts. For info, email ClintonArborGardenClub@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/CAGCCT.
Vegetable Gardening: Let's Get Planting
: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. Led by Jill Mechachonis, owner of Grateful Garden Company. Refreshments will be served. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.
Author Event: Christie Brinkley
Calendar for the Week of May 1, 2025
dees and a copy of the book. For info or to purchase a ticket, call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Concert by The Yale Whiffenpoofs
: 2 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.
Madison Lyric Stage (MLS) Previews with Panel Discussion
: 3 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library Johnson Community Room, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a preview of the show with MLS Artistic Director Marc Deaton and a panel discussion with members from the therapeutic and family services community. runs Friday, May 9, through Sunday, May 11, at the Deacon John Grave House grounds, 581 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For tickets or info about the show, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org. For info or to register for the preview (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
In the Garden: A Spring Concert in Celebration of the Earth
: 4 p.m. Holy Advent Episcopal Church, 81 E. Main St., Clinton. A reception and garden tour follows the concert. Free admission but a goodwill donation is welcome. Proceeds benefit the works of Food for All Garden and the Holy Advent music program. For info, email Office@HolyAdventClinton.org or visit holyadventclinton.org.
Concert by John Pizzarelli Trio
SUNDAY, MAY 4
Back to 1935: 90 Years of Jaguar
: 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. : 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Features a display of Jaguar vehicles spanning the decades. Free and open to the public, but no additional vehicles will be allowed for the exhibition. Hosted by the Jaguar Club of Southern New England. Sponsored by Motors Incorporated. Rain or inclement weather cancels. For info, call Robert Silvestri at 203-430-9028 or visit facebook.com/WatersEdgeResortAndSpa.
Farm Party A Memory of Truth? A Memory of Truth?
: Noon to 4 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. In celebration of Halfinger Farm's 30th year. Features farm special offers, barn tours, refreshments, live music, and more. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.
: Noon. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . Cost: $35, includes admission for two atten-
Uptown Girl: A Memoir
See page 31
: 3 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall Auditorium, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Performed by Cappella Cantorum Masterworks Chorus. Tickets: $16 to $32. For info or tickets, call 860-532-0454 or visit cappellacantorum.org.
Melodies of Spring
: 4 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Ln. Features an ensemble of professional singers performing opera, operetta, and musical theater pieces. Presented by the Opera Theater of Connecticut. Emceed by OTC Artistic Director Alan Mann. Tickets: $40, includes a post-concert reception of wine and cheese. For info or tickets, call 860669-8999 or visit website operatheaterofct.org.
TUESDAY, MAY 6
Kate Classic Film:
Pat and Mike
: 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.
Spring 2025 Business Fundamentals Session: What's the Big Idea?
: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. First of five sessions. Participants are encouraged to attend all five modules but may attend any single session. Free. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Series sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops.
“Drive-in” Movie Night:
Winnie the Pooh
: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Decorate a file box with paper plates for wheels and bring it to the library for a “drive-in” movie. Participants can sit in the “car” (or on the floor) in the children’s room for the film showing. Popcorn served. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Craft of the Month: Patriotic Paper Flower Wreath
: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by librarian Natalie Fleischer. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Joint Committee on the Conduct of the Civil War
: 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a presentation by Charles Fischer, Civil War historian. Part of the Mozart’s "Requiem in D Minor" and "Regina Coeli"
Shoreline Civil War Roundtable monthly meeting. Free and open to the public. For info, contact the group’s facilitator at 860395-1124 or olivia.jean@sbcglobal.net, or visit facebook.com/shorelinecivilwar roundtable.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
How to Use Anxiety to Thrive with David H. Rosmarin
Thriving with Anxiety
: 2 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/scranton library.
Mindfulness in Motion
: 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Various outdoor locations. For grades 5 to 8. Part of an after-school outdoor program series. After school is let out, students will walk to Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. Student pick up will be at OSYFS at 4 p.m. Space is limited. For info or to register, visit the link for after-school clubs OSMS/half-day trips at osyfs.org.
Zoom Cooking Class: Chicken or Veal Sentino
: 6 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Presented by chef Andrew Sussman. Sponsored by the Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. For info, including a list of ingredients, or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupport.com.
Concert by Vanessa Collier
: 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.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7 AND THURSDAY, MAY 8
Creative Crafts with Jesse: Mother's Day Cards
: Wednesday, 6 to 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For adults. Participants will use die cuts, embossing folders, ink-blending, and stamps to make three Mother's Day cards. No experience required. All materials provided. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Continued from page 30 See page 32
Watercolor Class Series Continues at Spectrum Art Gallery
Spectrum Art Gallery will continue its popular watercolor class series, Experiencing Watercolors, this spring with instruction from professional artist and illustrator Christian Kunze. Classes will be held on Fridays, May 9, 23, and 30, and June 6 and 13, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the gallery, located at 61 Main Street in Centerbrook.
Designed for both beginners and those with some experience, the class offers stepby-step instruction focused on watercolor painting fundamentals. Each session includes demonstrations and structured exercises that cover color mixing, value relationships, and basic color theory. Techniques such as wet-on-wet and dry brush (dry stubble) applications will also be explored.
Participants will paint from still life
setups and photo references from home. Students are encouraged to work on an ongoing painting project between sessions, which may be brought to the final class for an open critique.
Kunze, a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, has had a successful career in advertising, illustration, and fine art. His work has appeared in books, magazines, and product design, and his fine art has been featured in solo and group exhibitions throughout New York and Connecticut. He currently teaches at Scarsdale Adult School and resides in Salem.
The cost is $160 per person. A materials list is provided upon registration. For more information or to register, visit spectrumartgallery.org or call 860-7670742. Email inquiries may be sent to barbara@spectrumartgallery.org.
Mast and Water, watercolor, by Christian Kunze
Press Release from Spectrum Art Gallery
Continued from page 31
THURSDAY, MAY 8
Chamber Connect Morning Networking
: 8:30 to 10 a.m. The Wise Apothecary, inside the Shops of Madison Earth Care, 1250 Durham Rd. Presented by herbalist Melissa Blundon. Hosted by the Madison Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Olando and Son Painting. For info, call the chamber at 203-245-7394 or visit madisonct.com.
Spring 2025 Business Fundamentals Session: Customers and Competition
: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Second of five sessions. Participants are encouraged to attend all five modules but may attend any single session. Free. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Series sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops.
Author Event: Jessica Anya Blau
: 6:30 p.m. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info, call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Concert by Jonatha Brooke
: 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, MAY 9
Writers Writing
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Annual May Garden Market
: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Westbrook Town Hall, 866 Boston Post Rd. Features vegetable plants, hanging baskets, planters, perennials, herb and members plants, several vendors, a food truck, and more. For info, email westbrookgardenclubct@yahoo.com.
Killingworth Historical Society Tag Sale and Killingworth Evergreen Garden Club Annual Sale
: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Parmelee Farm, 465 Rte. 81, Killingworth. Features as tools, dishes, toys, collectables, jewelry, homemade goodies from Killingworth kitchens, and more. Rain or shine. For info, visit allthingskillingworth.com/events.
Annual Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary Town-Wide Tag Sale
Concert by the Isadore String Quartet
: 4 p.m. Andrews
Memorial Town Hall Auditorium, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Part of the 27th season of the George Flynn Classical Concerts Series. Free admission but tickets must be ordered online. For info or tickets, visit georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com.
MONDAY, MAY 12
Author Event: Michael Vorenberg in Conversation with Spencer Reece
Lincoln's Peace: The Struggle to End the American Civil War
: 6 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info, call 203245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
Starring Katharine Hepburn
: 1 to 2:15 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For adults, seniors, and homeschoolers ages 15 and up. Covers different genres of writing, including fairy tales, children's stories, letters to the editor, poetry, and personal essays. Last date: Friday, May 23. Attendees may try out a particular writing style and attend any date they prefer. For info or to register (required), call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Friday Movie Matinee
: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Hand's Got Talent
: 7 p.m. Daniel Hand High School Dining and Assembly Hall, 286 Green Hill Rd., Madison. Presented by the Daniel Hand Habitat for Humanity Club. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 students. Tickets available at the door. Proceeds benefit Raise the Roof. For info, visit facebook.com/RaisetheRoofCT.
Concert by SoulShine (Tribute to Allman Brothers Band) Shopgirls: A Novel
: 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.
FRIDAY, MAY 9 THROUGH
SUNDAY, MAY 11
A Memory of Truth?
: Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, 4 p.m. Madison Lyric Stage, Deacon John Grave House grounds, 581 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.
: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Killingworth Firehouse, 333 Rte. 81 and town-wide. Rain or shine. Free maps of registered tag sale locations available at the Killingworth Firehouse. For info, email rumblingrock@sbcglobal.net or visit facebook.com/KVFCAuxiliary.
Wesleyan Potters Spring Sale
: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wesleyan Potters, 350 S. Main St., Middletown. Features local vendors of pottery, jewelry, woven pieces, and more. For info, visit wesleyanpotters.com.
Frames in Film:
My National Gallery London
: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold Museum. Running time: 90 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
Third Madison Youth Craft Fair
: 1 to 3 p.m. Madison Town Green. For children ages 4 to 18. Features an openair market consisting of crafts made by the children at home and sold to the public. Crafts should be made entirely by the child, with little to no parental help. Rain date: Sunday, May 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. For info, contact Kerrin Falk Forsyth at 781-733-3980 or kerrinfalk@gmail.com.
: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features a film screening and Q&A with filmmakers David Heeley and Joan Kramer in celebration of Hepburn's birthday. Free admission but tickets are required while supplies last (max two per person). For info, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org
TUESDAY, MAY 13
Mary’s Culinary Class: Broccoli and Cavatelli and Spring Chex
: 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 203464-8447 or marysculinaryclassesllc@gmail.com, or visit the class schedule link at marysculinaryclassesllc.com.
Cookbook Club
: 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Book: by Melissa Ben-Ishay. 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 860-3996422 or visit westbrooklibrary.org.
Spring Crafts with Natalie: Jewelry Making and Metal Stamping Concert by Jimmy Webb
: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For adults. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
: 8 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Patrons may purchase an add-on pass for a meet-and-greet at 9:30 p.m. A ticket to the show is required for the meetand-greet pass. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.
SUNDAY, MAY 11
Mother's Day Tea
: Noon to 2 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $49.95 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860-399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.
Spring 2025 Business Fundamentals Session: Marketing and Sales Basics
: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Via Zoom. Third of five sessions. Participants are encouraged to attend all five modules but may attend any single session. Free. Hosted by SCORE Southeastern Connecticut Chapter. Series sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct/local-workshops.
Getting Paid to Talk: An Introduction to Voice Over Work
: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Via Zoom. Cost: $30. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.
Author Event: James Patterson
Come Hungry: Salads, Meals, and Sweets for People Who Live to Eat The #1 Dad Book: Be the Best Dad You Can Be in 1 Hour
: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Book: . Cost: $30, includes admission for one attendee and a copy of the book. Sponsored by R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.
See page 33
Looking Ahead, A World Premiere, and Changes
Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York Professional Theater
By Karen Isaacs
Columnist
A Very Long Title
: The Yale Rep is ending its season with a play that has a very long title:
Notes on Killing Seven Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Board Members
. The play, which runs through Saturday, May 17, is described as a “subversively funny play” that takes “aim at the unelected officials who think they know what’s best for the people – and our own bodies – and the elected ones who appoint them.” Tickets are available at YaleRep.org.
Next Year at MTC
Rent
Aisle ON THE
For information on the season, subscriptions, and individual tickets, visit MusicTheatreofCT.com.
World Premiere
: Thrown Stone The-
Fool’s Paradise
ater is opening its first season in South Norwalk after relocating from Ridgefield. , written by Jonathan Winn, tells the story of two couples whose getaway to an opulent Caribbean resort is derailed by a sudden emergency. The show runs through Sunday, May 10, at the Crystal Theatre. For information, contact ThrownStone.org.
Les Misérables
the ever-popular (June 2 to 7. Subscriptions will be available soon. For further information, visit Shubert.com.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
: MTC (Music Theatre of Connecticut) in Norwalk has scheduled two musicals and two plays for its 2025-’26 season. The season opens with from Sept. 26 to Oct. 12. It will be followed by the play from Nov. 7 to 23. From March 6 to 22 is the play/revue
Shubert’s Broadway Series
: You’ll
The Fox on the Fairway
The Irish….and How They Got That Way
. The season will end with the musical 9 to 5 from April 17 to May. 3.
Continued from page 32
ONGOING EVENTS
Art Exhibits
Six
A Beautiful Noise Mrs. Doubtfire Kimberly Akimbo
be able to see five Broadway shows at New Haven’s Shubert Theatre in 2025-’26. The recently announced series begins with from Sept. 25 to 28, then the Neil Diamond musical, , runs from Dec. 2 to 7. In the new year, will play March 4 to 8, followed by the Tony Award-winning (May 14 to 17) and ending with
Yale University Art Gallery
Andrews Memorial Town Hall: 54 E. Main St., Clinton: For info, visit clintonartsocietyct.org/exhibitions.
Clinton Art Society Spring Members Exhibition: Runs through June 19.
Connecticut River Museum
: 67 Main St., Essex: For info, call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.
River Ballads: Artwork by Barbara Hocker
: Runs through May 18.
New Haven Museum
: 114 Whitney Ave. For info, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org.
Enduring Creativity: Celebrating 125 Years of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club
: Runs through June 28.
Susan Powell Fine Art
: 679 Boston Post Rd., Madison: For info, call 203-318-0616 or visit susanpowellfineart.com.
Vincent Giarrano: City Color
David Dunlop: Quest for Radiance
: Runs May 2 through May 31. : Runs June 6 through July 6.
Music
Bill’s Seafood Restaurant:
The Thorn Birds Dr. Kildare
The Sound of Music My Fair Lady
Not a Household Name
: Richard Chamberlain, who died last month, was not known primarily as a stage actor. Most people associated him with and . But after a disastrous first attempt at Broadway – the musical version of with Mary Tyler Moore, which closed before officially opening- he returned to Broadway in the 1990s with well-received revivals of and . : James Bundy, who has served since 2002 as both Dean of the David Geffen School of Drama and the Artistic Director of Yale Repertory Theater, will retire in June 2026. His tenure is the longest in the school’s and theatre’s history. A search is beginning to find his successor. Bundy was the fourth to hold the dual roles.
: William Finn, the composer and lyricist who died on April 7, wasn’t a household name to most people. But to theater lovers, the two-time Tony Award winner was esteemed for his innovative musicals. If the public knew him at all, it was because of . But Finn was well-respected
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Remembering Changing Is Coming
: 1111 Chapel St., New Haven. For info, call 203-432-0600 or visit artgallery.yale.edu/visit/exhibitions.
David Goldblatt: No Ulterior Motive:
Runs through June 22
Rte. 1, Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-7224 or visit BillsSeafood.com.
First and third Wednesdays: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Corinthian Jazz Band.
Fridays: 7 to 9 p.m. Bill’s Seafood All-Star Jazz Band. Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Various performers. Sundays: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Various performers.
Nightingale’s Acoustic Café:
68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Donation $5 to $10 at the door. For info, email gstevens@musicnowfoundation.org or visit musicnowfoundation.org.
Tuesdays: 6 to 8 p.m. Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Last Friday: 7 to 9 p.m. Teen Open Mic.
Sweet Saturday Nights: 7 to 9 p.m. Various performers.
Seaview Bistro at Water's Edge Resort & Spa
: 1525
Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com.
Fridays and Saturdays: 9 p.m. to midnight. Various performers.
before that for his musicals (which combined and ) and . For many years, he had a close collaboration with Barrington Stage Company, which presented his last musical, , in 2018.
Falsettoland March of the Falsettos Falsettoland A New Brain The Royal Family of Broadway
NYC Notes
Just in Time Dead Outlaw Pirates Real Women Have Curves Maybe Happy Ending Dead Outlaw
: The 2024-’25 Broadway theater season has officially closed with the final shows – , , , and now opened. Nominations for the various award programs will also start being announced. The Tony Award nominations were announced on May 1. I am notoriously wrong when I make predictions, but I suspect that and will get many nominations. Will Audra McDonald be nominated for her Mama Rose? I’m not sure; the category of leading actress in a musical is jammed with possible nominees.
Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.
To check out her reviews for New York and Connecticut shows, visit 2ontheaisle.word press.com. She’s a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle, New York’s Outer Critics Circle, the League of Professional Theater Women, and the American Theatre Critics Association.
The Choo Choo Lounge at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina:
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.
The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn:
36 Main St., Essex. No cover charge. For info, call 860-767-1776 or visit griswoldinn.com.
Fridays: 8:30 p.m. to midnight. Psychedelic ‘60s.
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
A Journey Through America’s Past:
10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. Free. Registration is required to receive a Zoom link. For info, contact 203-245-5695 or gillespiee@madisonct.org.
41
Horoscopes Crossword
For the week of May 1 - May 7
ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, this week you may feel a desire to take charge of your professional life. Trust your instincts, but remember that you may have to go out of your comfort zone at some point.
TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, expect a week of self-reflection. Old emotions might resurface and offer you a chance to grow and heal. If you’re feeling out of sorts, make a plan to hang out with close friends.
GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21
Make sure you are not spreading yourself too thin this week, Gemini. Even though you are eager to connect and socialize, you might want to limit the number of events you attend.
CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22
Home and family matters may occupy most of your time this week, Cancer. It’s good to reconnect with loved ones and spend time with your immediate family.
LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, now could be an excellent opportunity to express your ideas and opinions to some of the higher-ups at your place of employment.
VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22
Exercise caution with your spending and investments right now, Virgo. Although you have some financial opportunities on the horizon, it’s best to be careful going forward.
MAY 1
Tim McGraw, Singer (58)
MAY 2
David Beckham, Athlete (50)
MAY 3
Eric Church, Singer (48)
MAY 4
Will Arnett, Actor (55)
LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23
A fresh burst of energy could be coming your way, Libra. This may provide the boost you need for self-improvement. You may be inspired to make many changes in your life right now.
SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you may find yourself reflecting on your mental and emotional well-being this week. Some introspection could lead to a breakthrough that helps you understand the past.
SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21
Expect your social life to pick up speed this week, Sagittarius. Invitations and opportunities to connect abound. Pay attention to your network as it may lead to connections.
CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20
Your hard work is paying off, Capricorn, but you also need to tend to your personal needs right now. This is the week to find better balance and take care of your health.
AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, you may be feeling more curious about the world around you and could find this is the week for some unexpected travel. It’s a great time to embrace new ideas..
PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20
Your intuition will guide you this week, especially when it comes to romance and other matters of the heart, Pisces. Expect relationships to grow for the better.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
MAY 5
Henry Cavill, Actor (42)
MAY 6
Angel Reese, Athlete (23)
MAY 7
Jake Bongiovi, Instagram star (23)
CLUES ACROSS
1. McCarthy acolyte Roy
5. Ancient Korean chiefdoms
10. Not soft
14. Jai __, sport
15. Philosophy
16. Do what you’re told 17. Gaffe
18. Widely known and esteemed
19. Amusement park attraction
20. Popular comic strip Viking
22. Usually has a lid
23. American sportscaster
24. Lung fibrosis
27. General’s assistant (abbr.)
30. Pouch
31. Upset
32. Partner to hem
35. Astronomy unit of distance
37. Witch
38. Gradually disappear
39. Regions
40. Possesses
41. Body parts
42. A way to comprehend
43. Defraud
44. Sandwich type
45. Expression of disappointment
46. Popular Dodge truck model
47. The 17th letter of the Greek alphabet
48. Soviet Socialist Republic
49. Songs to a beloved
52. Custom
55. Partner to cheese
56. West Indies trees
60. Member of a Semitic people
61. Plant that originated vegetatively
63. Squandered one’s money
64. Ethiopian river
65. Excessive fluid accumulation in tissues
66. Acquire by one’s efforts
67. Irish goddess
68. Hungarian village
69. Cereal grasses
CLUES DOWN
1. Currency
2. Ceramic jar
3. Reagan’s Secretary of State
4. God worshipped in Kanesh
5. One thousand cubic feet (abbr.)
6. Semitic
7. About blood
8. Benign tumors
9. Move one’s head
10. Hours (Spanish)
11. Hebrew calendar month
12. Advise someone
13. Colors clothes
21. The sun does it
23. Concealed
25. City of Angels hoops team (abbr.)
26. Droop
27. Away from one another
28. Challenges
29. A harsh scraping sound
32. Attaches to a wall
33. Capital of Ethiopia: __ Ababa
34. German river
36. Disappointed
37. Star Wars character Solo
38. Supervises flying
40. Not mass-produced
41. Nonsense
43. Automobile
44. Hogshead (abbr.)
46. Soak in water
47. Flower cluster
49. Romanian city
50. A parent is often one
51. Fencing sword
52. Body part
53. Region
54. Farm building
57. Ali’s surname at birth
58. Waxy bird beak covering
59. Stiff bristles
61. VCR button
62. Small amount
Word Search
Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, and diagonally throughout the puzzle.
HOME DECOR WORD SEARCH
ACCENT ARMOIRE ARTISTIC ASYMMETRY BALANCE COLOR CONCEPT CONTRAST DESIGNER FABRIC FLOORING FOCUS HARMONY LAYERING LIGHTING MODERN MOLDING MONOCHROMATIC PROPORTIONS RENOVATIONS SOFA STYLE TEXTURE TRADITIONAL
Word Scramble
Word Scramble solution for April 24, 2025: BIRDS
Word Search solution for April 24, 2025
Grassy Strip Music Series Returns to Madison Beach Hotel
The Grassy Strip Music Series at Madison Beach Hotel returns this summer with nine weeks of free, live outdoor concerts beginning Thursday, June 26, and continuing every Thursday through Aug. 28, excluding July 3.
“This summer’s lineup is incredible,” said John Mathers, general manager of Madison Beach Hotel. “The weekly summer experience at Madison Beach Hotel has truly become a time-honored tradition on the shores of Long Island Sound.”
All concerts run from 7:30 to 9 p.m. on the hotel lawn and begin with the Pledge of Allegiance. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the music and sunset.
The 2025 concert lineup includes Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez on June 26; the Dave Matthews Tribute Band on July
10; Orleans on July 17; Shaboo AllStars on July 24; the Quinn Sullivan Band on July 31; Jeff Pitchell and Texas Flood on Aug. 7; the Lee-Ann Lovelace Band on Aug. 14; Gold Dust Woman, a Stevie Nicks tribute, on Aug. 21; and Jake Kulak and the Modern Vandals on Aug. 28. The lineup is subject to change without notice.
The series features a mix of nationally recognized artists and regional favorites. Highlights include Orleans, known for hits like “Still the One”; guitarist Quinn Sullivan; the Stevie Nicks tribute show Gold Dust Woman; and Shaboo AllStars, featuring musicians from acts like the Joe Cocker Band and the E Street Band. The series kicks off with Christine Ohlman, the iconic “Beehive Queen,” and closes with award-winning blues guitarist Jake Kulak and his band, the Modern Vandals.
For more information, visit madisonbeachhotel.com.
Press Release from the Madison Beach Hotel
Photo by Kelley Fryer/Harbor News
The 2025 Grassy Strip Music Series kicks off at Madison Beach Hotel on June 26.
TOWN OF WESTBROOK
ANNUAL TOWN BUDGET HEARING LEGAL NOTICE PROPOSED FY2025-26 GENERAL FUND BUDGET
TOWN OF WESTBROOK
FIVE YEAR CAPITAL PLAN FY24-25 THROUGH FY28-29
Word-Based Paintings by John Boone in New Exhibition
Press
The Lyman Allyn Art Museum announces the opening of , a new exhibition showcasing more than 50 word-based paintings by American artist John Boone. The exhibition runs from May 3 through Aug. 10, 2025.
John Boone—WHATSWHAT
Boone, who lives and works in Brooklyn, New York, and Stonington, has exhibited at institutions including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Mystic Museum of Art. His public commissions range from murals in Prague and Jersey City to a sign flown over Berlin and a granite compass at the Key West Botanical Garden.
Known for his exploration of idioms and the layered meanings of language, Boone (b. 1951) creates text-based paintings that are both playful and thought-provoking. Using a signature typeface of his own design—resembling digitized text on an electronic marquee—Boone hand-paints familiar phrases that invite viewers to reflect on communication, technology, and human connection.
The exhibition features works from 1994 to the present, including themed series such as Time – Pieces and Hands, which center on commonly used expressions like “It’s out of my hands” and “On one hand….” By isolating key words and phrases, Boone highlights how language reflects our perceptions of time, the body, and shared cultural experiences.
“In a world dominated by computer-generated imagery and screen-based communication, Boone’s paintings invite a return to careful observation and contemplation,” said museum staff. “His work taps into language that is universally known—idioms with no single author but shared by many.”
Continued from page 33
An opening reception will be held Friday, May 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. Admission is free for museum members and $10 for nonmembers. To register, call 860-443-2545 ext. 2129 or email info@lymanallyn.org.
A related gallery talk with the artist will take place Wednesday, July 16, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Additional information is available at lymanallyn.org.
This exhibition is supported by an anonymous foundation, as well as funding from the Connecticut State Legislature, administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of the Arts.
The Lyman Allyn Art Museum, founded in 1926 and opened in 1932, is located at 625 Williams St. in New London. The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 19,000 objects from around the world, with notable holdings in American painting, decorative arts, and Victorian toys. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, visit lymanallyn.org or call 860-443-2545.
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. On temporary break for winter. Bring your own acoustic instrument. No registration required. For info, call 203245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
6 to 6:45 p.m. First Thursday. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children in grades 1 through 4. Dolls don’t have to be American Girl. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
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.
Arts and Entertainment with Deborah Gilbert:
6 p.m.
Tuesdays. Valley Shore Community Television Inc., 1587 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, call 203-912-2319 or visit vsctv.com.
Ask-A-Lawyer: A Free Legal Clinic:
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
10:30 a.m. First Sunday. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For grieving parents, grandparents, and siblings suffering the loss of children and family members. For info, call Vanessa Pentz at 203-645-7777.
Bereaved Parents USA and PS It Hurts Support Group: Bingo:
6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Cost: $12 per person. For info, call 860-3881611.
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.
Coastal Camera Club Meeting:
7 p.m. First and third Wednesdays. Via Zoom. To register (required), contact wfrprs@att.net. For info, visit coastalcameraclub.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.
Community Breakfast
: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturdays. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Hosted by The Shoreline Soup Kitchen & Pantries, Madison. For info, email mainoffice@fccmadison.org or visit shorelinesoupkitchens.org.
Release from the Lyman Allyn Art Museum
Image courtesy of the Lyman Allyn Art Museum
Acoustics Club:
American Girl Doll Club:
Page Turners
SayYou'llRememberMe
ByAbbyJimenez
Xavier is a gorgeous veterinarian who meets his match in Samantha. It is love at first sight for both. But life is keeping them apart. He needs to keep his small business alive in Minnesota. She needs to provide care for her mom in California. Will distance keep them apart forever? Is time that is measured in quantity or quality the key to a successful partnership?
— Judi M., R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison
Every 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.
PomonaAftonCanSoSolveaMurder
ByBellamyRose
What I needed was a light, fun whodunit, and this one SO nailed it! Share this one with your teen daughter and discuss it over the best pastries at a tiny coffee shop in your best designer sunglasses.
— Jamie, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison
ParadiseLogic
BySophieKemp
Every page of this book had me either laughing or crying. This quirky debut novel from Sophie Kemp follows Reality, a woman on the quest to become the perfect girlfriend. The story begins silly and irreverent, but it later becomes apparent that the whimsy is hiding a heartbreaking truth. Reality, though delusional and a slightly unreliable narrator, is incredibly earnest and deeply relatable. While the book is about romance, it’s certainly not a rom-com but rather focuses on identity and self-love.
— Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison
Rebellion1776
ByLaurieHalseAnderson
Elsbeth Culpepper is a maid in Boston during the Revolutionary War, worried about her missing father and dealing with the smallpox epidemic. With a willful and bold narrator, the novel is a coming-ofage that is relatable despite its historical setting. Full of heart and with just a dash of romance, this book was incredible!
— Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison
Page Turners
Continued from page 42
Gabriele
ByAnneBerestandClaireBerest
This book has me charmed, educated, and in awe of this extraordinary woman. The Berest sisters have resurrected their great-grandmother to the benefit of us all! Along the way, we learn about art, artists, history, and bravery. A gem!
— Roxanne, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison
Heartwood
ByAmityGaige
I couldn’t stop reading—I had to know how it ended! It seems like this book is about a 42-year-old woman lost on the Appalachian Trail, and yes, it is. But it’s also about much more—those invested in the search for her, the various ways we get lost and are found, and the internal journeys many of us face. Amity Gaige’s beautiful writing is filled with both suspense and tenderness!
— Lori,
R.J. Julia Booksellers,
Madison
TheRiverisWaiting By
WallyLamb
Once again, Wally Lamb delivers a deeply moving story of loss and forgiveness. It is about Corby Ledbetter, a man whose life spins out of control after he causes a terrible tragedy. He is sent to prison and is left to deal with his own guilt. This is not an easy read. His story is mostly told while serving time for the unbearable accident that occurs while he is under the influence of Ativan and alcohol. This is beautifully written with characters that are well-developed and realistic. It will stay with you after you are finished. Highly recommend.
— Sue, Breakwater Books, Guilford
TheCorrespondent
ByVirginiaEvans
Few copies of an advanced release book have been passed between booksellers with as much anticipation, enthusiasm, and sighs of appreciation as In the space of about 10 days, at least five staff at Breakwater Books enjoyed every part of this book. This would be a great selection for a book group because after reading it, there are many aspects for discussion. Without giving anything away, the book is a series of letters received by Sybil Van Antwerp, a reclusive retired lawyer in her 70s who communicates best with people through letters. Each letter gives the reader insight into Sybil’s story as well as the graceful unfolding of her relationship with each person with whom she is corresponding. Sybil is brilliant, quirky, accomplished, and reconciling her past with her future.
The Correspondent.
—The Booksellers at Breakwater Books, Guilford
The Gris Hosts Bestselling Author Marie Bostwick for Literary Luncheon
The Griswold Inn will welcome New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Bostwick on Wednesday, June 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for a spring literary luncheon featuring her newest historical fiction release,
The Book Club for Troublesome Women
The event includes a keynote address by the author, followed by a Q&A session and book signing. Bostwick’s novel, which launches April 22, is set in 1960s suburban Virginia and follows four housewives navigating the pressures of the American Dream. When they form a book club and begin reading , they begin to question their roles, explore their dreams, and discover the courage to change their lives.
The Feminine Mystique
“Besides weaving a good yarn and a page-turning story you can get lost in, I wrote it to supply you with viewpoints to consider and questions to mull over, aspirations to reach for,” said Bostwick. “Mostly, I wrote it in hopes that you would find something of yourself in these pages, and something of your sisters and mine, all the unique, imperfect, troublesome
Q: I know some clover is good for the lawn, but it’s taking over my back yard. Is there any organic treatment to stop it from spreading? - Matthew
A: Clover is the best thing that ever happened to your lawn, so don’t try to get rid of it! Prior to World War II, white clover was part of everyone’s lawn, but that all changed after the war (when synthetic weed-killers were first introduced). An unfortunate side effect of synthetic weed killers for dandelions and plantains, was that they also killed clover. In turn, chemical companies began marketing campaigns that persist to this day; classifying clover as a “weed”. Nothing could be further from the truth! HERE ARE
OF
• It fixes nitrogen, providing free fertilization
• It withstands drought, and stays green while most lawns burn in heat
• It’s slow-growing, which means less cutting
• It resists diseases and insects, especially grubs
• It supports pollinators, flowers provide nectar and pollen for healthy bees
• It grows in poor soil, helping prevent weeds and filling in where grass can’t
women of this oh-so troublesome and troubling world.”
“We’re privileged to welcome such a celebrated author whose work resonates with so many,” said Joan Paul, co-owner of The Griswold Inn. “Events like this reflect our ongoing commitment to offering meaningful and memorable experiences to our community.”
The Book Club for Troublesome Women
Tickets are $65 and include lunch, a signed copy of , and the opportunity to connect with the author. Advance reservations are required, as space is limited. To register, visit griswoldinn.com or call The Gris Store, Goods & Curiosities, at 860767-0210.
Books will also be available for purchase at the store, located at 47 Main Street, across from the Main Inn, and on the day of the event.
Press Release from the Griswold Inn
The Griswold Inn hosts New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Bostwick for a special spring literary luncheon, featuring her latest uplifting and thought-provoking work of historical fiction, on June 4.
Photo courtesy of the Griswold Inn
Continued from page 33
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.
Cookbook Club:
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 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
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 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Craft of
6 to 7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
: 6 p.m. Tuesdays. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
6 p.m. Second Monday. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, contact 860-669-2342 or sarah@hchlibrary.org.
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.
3 to 4:30 p.m. Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Participants create poetry from art. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
5:30 a.m. Fridays. Madison Town Campus, 8 Campus Dr. Free and open to all men. Held outdoors rain or shine. For info, email F3shoreline@gmail.com.
6 p.m. First Monday. Via Zoom. Offered by BHcare. A group for family members and caregivers who assist people through their journey of mental wellness. For info, call 203-800-7177 or visit BHcare.org.
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Fridays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Drop-ins welcome. Bring your own project. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Forever Young: A Young Adult Book Club:
6 to
7:30 p.m. Last Wednesday bimonthly. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.
Friday Movie Matinee:
2 to 4 p.m. Second and fourth Fridays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Registration recommended. For info or to register, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
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 860399-6422.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group:
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.
Guitar Club:
12:30 p.m. Mondays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Bring your own instruments. No registration required. For info, call 203245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
iPhone Photography Collaborative:
6:30 p.m. First Monday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. All levels are welcome. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Jigsaw Puzzle Meet Up and Swap:
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.
La Leche Virtual Meetings:
7 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. Saturdays. Via Facebook. Sponsored by La Leche League of Connecticut. For info, visit facebook.com/groups/LLLofCTDiscussionForum.
Lego Club
: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. For info, contact the library at 860526-0018 or library@chesterct.org.
Lego STEM Club:
5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Second or fourth Tuesday. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children in grades 1 through 4. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Letter Writing Social:
1 to 5 p.m. First Friday. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Writing implements, stationery, postcards, and stamps available. No registration. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Love2Sign with Jaye:
10:45 a.m. Thursdays. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children ages 6 months to 6 years. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. First and third Mondays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register (required), visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Madison Movie Chat: Maker Meet-up:
6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. All ages welcome. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Master Gardener Clinic:
Noon. Mondays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. All specimens must be in sealed containers. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.
Meditation Class:
11 a.m. Mondays. Online. Sponsored by the Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Led by certified mindfulness and meditation teacher Joanne Vannelli. Free. For info or to register (required), contact sarah@hchlibrary.org.
Meet-up Mondays:
1:30 p.m. Mondays. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features board games, coloring, puzzles, and more. Light refreshments. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.
Music with Margie:
11 a.m. Fridays. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children and their family members. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.
Mystery Book Club:
1 p.m. Fourth Wednesday. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. No registration required. For info, contact Cindy Baklik at 860-395-3184 or cbaklik@actonlibrary.org, or visit actonlibrary.org.
NAMI Shoreline Family Support Group
Theater
Notes on Killing Seven Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Board Members:
: 7 p.m. Second Tuesday. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Facilitators trained by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer peer-led support to adults caring for a loved one ages 18 and over experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. For info, call 860-876-0236 or visit namishoreline.org. Yale Repertory Theatre, 1120 Chapel St., New Haven. Runs through May 17. For info, call 203-432-1234 or visit yalerep.org.
Shrek The Musical
: Cabaret on Main Theater, 597 Main St., East Haven. Runs through May 11. For info, call 203208-9592 or visit cabaret-on-main.com.
Ragtime: The Musical:
Goodspeed Musicals, 6 Main St., East Haddam. Runs through June 15. For info, call 860873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.
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Real estate
An Extraordinary Waterfront Home
Staff Report
Experience coastal elegance in this historic waterfront estate on prestigious Linden Avenue. Elevated above the flood zone, this stately Federal Colonial blends timeless charm with modern comforts, offering commanding views of Long Island Sound and the Thimble Islands.
More than just a home, this heirloom property is a legacy to be cherished by generations. Set on nearly an acre of land, the residence provides both privacy and convenience, located just minutes from Branford’s lively town green, the train station, and nearby restaurants. The exclusive association offers residents private beach access, a seawall, and a kayak launch for effortless coastal living. Inside, the home’s open floor plan allows water views and natural light to fill every room. The remodeled kitchen, featuring a breakfast and wine bar and a generous island, flows into a dining area that extends to a sprawling veranda, ideal for hosting al fresco dinners with panoramic water views.
Upstairs, four well-appointed bedrooms each offer an en suite bath. Two feature private waterfront balconies, while the other two share an expansive balcony, all with breathtaking views.
This extraordinary waterfront home is a rare opportunity to own a legacy property on one of Branford’s most coveted streets.
This home is being offered for sale by William Pitt’s Sotheby’s International Realty for $3,600,000. For more information or to schedule a showing, contact Michelle Wininger at 860-707-5389 or Mark McElrath at 860-9514918.
This stately Federal Colonial blends timeless charm with modern comforts, offering commanding views of Long Island Sound and the Thimble Islands.
The remodeled kitchen, featuring a breakfast and wine bar and a generous island, flows into a dining area that extends to a sprawling veranda.
Two bedrooms feature private waterfront balconies, while the other two share an expansive balcony, all with breathtaking views.
Real Estate Transactions
CLINTON
April 10
ESSEX
6 Main Street
Heather W. Grass T and Heather W. Grass, $925,000 on April 7
2295 Long Hill Road
: Benton
Properties LLC to Clay St LLC, $350,000 on April 7
367 Nut Plains Road
20 Marine Avenue
: Lkz Properties LLC to Erin Ogrean, $416,000 on April 8 : Amy
Menunketesuck Drive
Dirienzo to Samuel L. Fekete, $317,500 on April 10
38 Waterside Lane
: Arthur W. Bartunek and June White to Joseph and Rachel Halas, $730,682 on April 7
OLD SAYBROOK
9 Brenda Lane
: David E. and Patricia M. Cunningham to Alexander Paladino and Erin Torneo, $838,500 on April 8
367 Main Street Unit 11
: Estate of Claudia J. Newell and Barbara Abrams to Sharon R. Neely, $555,000 on April 11
Route
: Richard Pleines to Cornerstonecs LLC, $135,000 on April 11
Drive
: William W. Daly to James Levine, $627,550 on April 7
: Christine Nelson to Laura Bonalli, $350,000 on April 8
: Clark St Capital LLC to Topaz Homes LLC, $285,000 on
: Macbeth Ventures LLC to Witch Hazel Holdings LLC, $1,750,000 on April 10
70 Pond Meadow Road
: Connor
Rose Essex LLC to Magd3 Realty LLC, $5,100,000 on April 10
MADISON
37 Hamilton Drive
: Mark and Gretchen I. Bonavita to Kelly and Jeffrey Royal, $2,175,000 on April 11
17 Lyle Drive
: Brian and Amanda Hanko to Richard Federico and Erin Sodhi, $731,000 on April 10
: Clemente Martone to Michael and Lisa Mueller, $899,000 on April 7
: Timothy W. and David G. Steding to Ryan and Kelly Keckler, $530,000 on April 9
: Terry T. and Sandra J. Kensler to Christine Goldthwaite, $717,000 on April 7
GUILFORD
Bluff View Drive
: Viana Construction LLC to Ribeiro Construction LLC, $150,000 on April 7 : Lovers
1099-A Boston Post Road
Lane LLC to Automotive Unlimited Inc, $1,120,000 on April 9
2 Granite Road Unit 2
: Erica Haskins to Laura Mccargar, $93,000 on April 11
2 Granite Road Unit 2
: Noel Young to Laura Mccargar, $93,000 on April 11
66 High Street Condo Unit 66-49
66 High St Guilford LLC to John S. Sack, $2,050,000 on April 9
951-R Little Meadow Road
: Norman and Stefanie D. Jessiman to
:
: Peter and Eileen Limoncelli to Joshua M. and Christine L. Miller, $815,000 on April 11 :
455 South Hoop Pole Road
Amanda S. Merrill to Leah B. Dudley and James Boemmels, $556,000 on April 9
81 Spencer Avenue
: John B. and
Amy H. Lareau to Matthew Merrins and Rebecca Coughlin, $1,460,000 on April 9 :
379 Whitfield St Unit BN2638
Carter T. Ozyck to Samantha Ketchale, $26,000 on April 11
BRANFORD
63 Driscoll
: Pane Ft and Louis Pane to Cristal M. Bello, $220,000 on April 11
: Raymond D. Pompano to Cristal M. Bello, $220,000 on April 11
: Robert D. and Claudia N. Bradley to Manika LLC, $325,000 on April 8 : Estate of Louise Lamontagne and Amy Doherty to David Laughran and Carla Iezzi, $916,000 on April 9
: Gerald Murphy and U South Bank TNa to Alexander Mansi, $326,000 on April 9 : Eric J. Gilloran to Lisa Fricker, $142,500 on April 9 :
Megan Vail to Katherine A. Wojnowski, $335,700 on April 10 : Dolores Borzillo to Jasra LLC, $290,000 on April 7
NORTH BRANFORD
: Jennifer Washburn to Katherine Garcia, $239,000 on April 8
Robert Frost Drive Unit 718 12 Svea Avenue 229
37 Woodland Drive, Old Saybrook $799,000
Welcome to Knollwood Beach Association, where charm, comfort, and nature meet in this beautifully updated yearround ranch-style home.
12 Bellstone Avenue, Westbrook $1,195,000
Escape to West Beach with this stunning, fully renovated year-round beach home, just steps from the sand. Designed for easy coastal living, this home features a brand-new designer kitchen with white quartz countertops and a cozy natural gas wood stove.
4 Old Fenwick Road, Old Saybrook $1,995,000
Water views! Extraordinary Indirect Waterfront Home
Overlooking Long Island Sound! Welcome to your dream home with stunning views of the Fenwick Lighthouses! This recently renovated home boasts panoramic views from every room and is move-in ready.
5 Cromwell Court, Old Saybrook $1,095,000
Welcome to the relaxed coastal lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. Nestled in the prestigious North Cove community, this charming Cape Cod-style home offers comfort, space, and the perfect setting.
— ON DEPOSIT LISTINGS —
6 Elm Street, Old Lyme $895,000
Nestled just off the prestigious Library Lane is a timeless New England gem where the charm of 1904 architecture meets thoughtful modern updates.This post-and-beam home, including the original structure and master suite, is rich with character, warmth, and history
107 Ayers Point Road, Old Saybrook $799,000
One floor living in a private setting. Set on a 1 acre lot offering privacy without isolation close to CT River and Turtle Creek Preserve for scenic walks. This home offers large rooms, formal and informal space, abundant storage, and a beautiful screened four-season porch.
