Harbor News 07-02-26 by dayshorepublishing

July 2, 2026

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXIX Iss. 27

Referendum Eyed for Kate, DPW Projects

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer

Old Saybrook’s Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance are expected to hear presentations in July on funding requests for potential upgrades to the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and the town’s

Department of Public Works garage. Voters will be asked to approve the funding at a referendum this fall.

First Selectman Carl Fortuna announced at a meeting in late June that the Board of Selectmen will receive presentations on the funding requests at its July 14 meeting.

At press time, Fortuna said final cost esti-

mates for both projects were still being determined but would be presented to the board in time for the July 14 meeting.

Following the presentation, Fortuna said the selectmen are expected to forward the proposals to the Board of Finance for review.

See Referendum page 9

Celebrate Saybrook

Crowds fill Main Street during the fourth annual Celebrate Saybrook Street Party in Old Saybrook on June 28. The annual summer kickoff featured live music, food, local craft beer, vendors and a patriotic drone show commemorating America's 250th anniversary.

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ HarborNews

Coralie Williams: Sharing the Joy of Reading

By Alicia Gomez

Associate Editor

Coralie Williams never knew she’d end up working at a library. She studied early childhood education and worked as a preschool teacher. Later, as a library mom, she found her calling. Today, she helps foster a love of reading among children while building community.

Williams is in her ninth year as head of children’s services at Henry Carter Hull Library. She started at the library by teaching a preschool class through the Clinton Early Childhood Council. When an opening became available, the staff encouraged her to apply.

“I quickly realized that this was my absolute dream job,” she says.

Now, she jokes that she wants everyone to become a librarian.

Although her career took an unexpected turn, Williams still draws on her background in early childhood education to encourage children to discover books. Her own experience shapes the way she works with children today.

“I was a reluctant reader growing up,” she says.

Person of the Week

She says becoming a library parent helped her discover the joy of reading and shaped the way she approaches her work with children.

Now, her goal is to introduce children to reading early and help them become lifelong library users.

Over the years, the library has expanded its programming to include all ages. These programs focus on play, creativity, art, science, and movement.

One of those initiatives is the Summer Reading Bingo Challenge, in which children, teens, and adults complete activities to earn prizes. Activities range from reading to a pet to having a screen-free day, encouraging participants to engage not only with the library but also with the world around them. This year, in honor of

America’s 250th anniversary, the program has an America 250 theme. Williams says she was especially proud that more than 300 people attended this year’s Summer Reading Kickoff.

Williams says initiatives like this don’t happen without community support. This year, the library partnered with Lewin G. Joel Jr. School for the Summer Reading Bingo Challenge. A community member donated crocheted raffle prizes, while a local artist painted an America 250 sign for the circulation desk.

Community donations help fund many of the library’s programs. Other local partnerships include a fairy garden created by the Clinton Arbor Garden Club and nature-based programs sponsored by the Clinton Land Trust, where Williams serves on the board.

“It takes a village,” she says. “I am able to do all these wonderful things because of donations from our community.”

Williams enjoys how each staff member brings a passion to the programs they lead, whether it’s crafts, reading, or music

See Coralie Williams page 8

Photo courtesy of Coralie Williams Coralie Williams, head of children's services at Henry Carter Hull Library, enjoys helping children discover a lifelong love of reading through story times and community programs.

SUMMER DAYS IN ESSEX

START NOW!

COME EXPERIENCE THE 3 VIILLAGES

Brickside Pizza -Ivoryton

At our new location at 107 Main in Ivoryton, across from the playhouse, Brickside is serving up it is ever popular wood-fired pizza crafted with quality ingredients and tradition. We are proud to offer a welcoming space for gathering, dining, and celebrating together, along with takeout, and delivery.

The Hosting Company-Ivoryton

Welcome to The Hosting Company! Nestled in Ivoryton Village, our cozy coffee shop and retail destination is your local community hub. Stop by to sip locally-roasted coffee, artisan matcha, or refreshing iced tea while browsing handmade homewares, fresh florals, and so much more. Pull up a chair while you caffeinate - Remote workers welcome!

Blissful Beauty

Tucked into the heart of Essex , Blissful Beauty Day Spa blends hometown warmth with quiet luxury. For ten years, our skilled team has poured care into every facial, massage and treatment, creating a refined community haven where comfort feels effortless. Visit us at 35 Saybrook Rd, Unit 1.

The Cheese Shop - Centerbrook

At 33 Main Street you will find great cheese, gorgeous charcuterie boards & all the delicious extras you didn’t know you needed. Stop by, explore something new & let us help make your next gathering a little tastier.

Essex Historical Society

For over 70 years, Essex Historical Society has been sharing local history with residents and visitors. Join Director, Melissa Josefiak, as EHS celebrates America 250 with events, programs & tours throughout 2026. Holiday House Tour is back Dec. 12th!

Sweet P’s Essex Ice Cream

Cool off with the best treats in town at SweetP’s at 51 Main Street—home to locally made Ashley’s ice cream, seasonal favorites, Essex Mud, smoothies, shakes, and sundaes. Stop in and treat yourself today!

House of the Triple Moon

House of the triple moon is a welcoming metaphysical shop offering crystals, books, jewelry, potions, and unique gifts. Located on North Main Street, we offer workshops, moon circles, and spiritual guidance, fostering community, creativity, and intentional living in a distinctly witchy atmosphere.

Joy Chocolates

Just off Main Street in historic Essex, JOY Chocolate Co offers handcrafted chocolates, rich caramels, frozen hot chocolate, frozen lemonade, unique gifts, and sweet treats. Stop in and discover a little JOY.

Essex Preschool

Laughter, giggles & educational fun in the heart of Essex village! We have been educating generations of children since 1968, offering programs for children ages 18 months to 5 years & a summer camp for ages 3 - 6. Located right off rt. 9 on 6 Methodist Hill Road.

Essex Art Association

Celebrating its 80th year, embracing a range of styles, from the traditional to the cutting edge. Our current show features over 90 pieces of artwork inspired by Essex’s rich maritime history, and the many ways we journey through life, with its “Come Sail Away” theme.

Jessica

Victoria

Zac & Taryn

Cheryl

Paul

Melissa

Deana

Donna

Claire

Sarah

Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper

Founded in 1998

Letters

Editor to the

Heartfelt Thanks

Westbrook Garden Club held its annual May Market on May 9, 2026. Mother Nature cooperated, and the rain held out, helping make this cherished event both successful and joyful for our club. We extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Westbrook selectman’s office, Westbrook Town Hall and the Westbrook Public Works Department for their generous assistance. We truly appreciate you.

With deep gratitude, we thank the Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, leaders and parent helpers from Westbrook Troop 38 and Clinton Troop 55. Your energy, kindness and willingness to jump in wherever needed, from setup to helping buyers to tear-down and cleanup, made an enormous difference. We simply could not have done this without you.

Special thanks to our local merchants

Look Into Their Own Situations

In today’s mail, I received the June 25, 2026, issue of the . The headline on page one reads: “Clinton Homeowners Face 14.1% Tax Increase.” The lead sentence for the story reads: “...the average residential property owner in Clinton will see a tax increase of about 14.1%, driven largely by a shift in the tax burden following revaluation....”

for their generous raffle donations and to the Westbrook Land Trust for hosting an information booth and offering a free seed bomb activity for kids. We are also grateful to the many organizations that helped promote the event through bulletins and by displaying our posters. A big shout-out as well to Westbrook Project Graduation for its delicious bake sale offerings.

Most of all, thank you to our incredible community, everyone who stopped by, chatted with members, purchased plants, raffle tickets and handcrafts, or simply shared a smile. Your support fuels our mission and keeps this tradition thriving. It was truly wonderful to see you all.

Linda Higgins

Westbrook Garden Club May Market Committee

Clinton Town Tax Collector. Knowing what I paid in real property taxes in 2025, after reading the story today I calculated the percentage increase for my property tax this year (2026) over last year (2025).

The increase for the amount of my property tax from last year to this year is 4.1%.

As Michelle Benivenga, the Town Manager, has repeatedly explained publicly, the townwide property revaluation — mandated by state law — as of Oct. 1, 2025, disclosed that “residential properties increased in value at a much higher rate than commercial properties, resulting in a shift of the tax burden from commercial to residential.”

In yesterday’s mail, I had received my real property tax bill for 2026 from the Harbor News

I then checked online to find the inflation rate for the period 2025 to 2026. The inflation rate from last year to this year (so far) is 4.1%.

Notably, my tax increase and the rate of inflation (so far) are the same!

Clearly, Clinton taxpayers should not take the headline and story at face value but look into their own tax situations. Harbor News Harbor News

William McKeown Clinton

Chair-ity for a Cause Seeks Trades, Sponsors

The Connecticut Cancer Foundation is seeking local trades professionals, designers, artists, and business sponsors for Chair-ity for a Cause, a breast cancer fundraiser featuring creatively transformed chairs in an online auction throughout October. Participants are invited to refurbish or redesign a chair for donation. Only 15 chairs will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Chair participants must register and submit a before photo and chair description by Sept. 1. Bidding begins Oct. 1 and continues through Oct. 31. Businesses may also support the fundraiser through sponsorship opportunities. Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Cancer Foundation. For more information, to register a chair, or to inquire about sponsorships, contact Carla Snowdon at 959-746-2071 or carla@tidewaterltg.com.

Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alicia Gomez Assistant Editor

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Eric O’Connell Staff Reporter

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Aaron Rubin Staff Reporter

Editorial Staff

Contacting Harbor News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OBITUARIES The Harbor News publishes paid obituary notices in print and at Zip06.com. Obituaries should be sent to obits@theday.com. The deadline for all obituaries is Wednesday at 4 p.m., eight days prior to publication date. Obituaries will also be posted as quickly as possible at Zip06.com.

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

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

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

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

Harbor News

200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 news@shorepublishing.com

203-245-1877

Fax 203-245-9773

Find Obituaries

Posted Daily Online

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

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

Obituaries

Obituary

William L. Chambers Old Saybrook

William L. Chambers, 81, of Old Saybrook, passed away peacefully at his home May 28, 2026, surrounded by his family. Bill, or Willie as he was often called, was born in Queens, N.Y., to the late Mary Anderson and his father, William Chambers Sr., who died in World War II's Battle of the Bulge 11 days prior to his birth. He was predeceased by his wife, Muriel, in 2025. In addition, he is survived by his daughter, Michelle Chambers Cantey, and husband, John, from Ivoryton; and numerous nieces and nephews, brother- and sisters-in-law, and close friends who are too numerous to name, but whom he all adored. He especially enjoyed his later years driving a local school bus after retirement, and loved the grade school children and their bright, smiling faces, who adored him and nicknamed him “Mr. Bill.” Bill had a knack for always creating excitement for those whom he most cared about. From his days of driving down to Cape Cod with his best friend, Ralph, in a gas-guzzling monster, they were often reined in by their future wives, who chased them down, and ended the adventure. Both ended up

marrying the love of their lives. From this one adventure to his love of sailing on Long Island Sound or Cape Cod with daughter Michelle, adventures to Massachusetts and New Hampshire relatives during the holidays, and dinner and getting together with family and friends were a staple of his family life. His love of National Public Radio and the Boston Symphony were a keen interest. He enjoyed working on his home, painting, and, of course, smoking a Camel or two while barbecuing; this was Willie. His adventures were numerous, his number of friends was wide, and volunteering for civic duties after retirement, whether it was Meals on Wheels or putting up flags around town for Memorial Day, was special for him. This is a small microcosm of who Bill was until the end.

A luncheon will be held in the near future to celebrate Bill's life, talk old stories, and enjoy everyone's company in honor of his life, which affected many of us. The family would also like to thank everyone from Middlesex Hospital Hospice and health aides for their extraordinary care and compassion, especially in the last few weeks of his life. It will never be forgotten and was deeply appreciated. This was how he wanted it to be. Bill and Muriel are together again.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group

The Estuary, located at 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, holds the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group every fourth Monday at 5:30 p.m. Hosted by the Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services clinical staff, the group provides conversation, support, and resources for grandparents who—for a variety of reasons—become parents to their grandchildren. Registration is not required. All area towns are welcome. For more information, contact 860-510-5042 or heather.mcneil@oldsaybrookct.gov.

Master Woodland Manager Program Accepting Applications

The Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA) is accepting applications for its 2026-27 Master Woodland Manager program through Wednesday, July 15. The yearlong educational program combines online learning and field instruction to help woodland owners and land managers make informed decisions about forest stewardship. Participants learn about forest ecology, wildlife habitat, forest health, climate change, and woodland management practices. The program is open to private woodland owners, municipal land stewards, nonprofit volunteers, educators, and others interested in caring for forested land. The 2026-27 program begins in late August. For more information, application details, or upcoming information sessions, visit ctwoodlands.org.

Council Revisits Town Vision, Goals

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer

Clinton’s Town Council has begun an effort to revise the town’s vision, mission and goal statements, with public feedback expected in July. The statements are intended to guide council decisions that could affect the town’s future.

The council held a workshop June 22 to discuss the vision and goal statements. Because it was a workshop rather than a regular council meeting, no official votes were taken, but council members discussed potential revisions to the vision statement as well as a timeline for the process.

After explaining the rationale for the workshop, Town Council Chairman Hank Teskey, D, said he wanted to separate the town’s mission statement, vision statement and goals rather than have them blended together, though he added that “nothing will be drastically different.”

Teskey said he views a vision statement as describing “where the town wants to go,” while a mission statement defines “what we do.”

He suggested that by adopting a vision and goal statement, the Town Council could provide residents with a blueprint for understanding why the town is taking certain actions by measuring those actions against the stated vision and goals.

The council agreed to work the ideas discussed June 22 into a draft vision statement and continue the discussion at a future meeting. Teskey said the revised draft will be presented to the public in early July, after which residents will have about a month to provide feedback and suggest action items they would like included.

Teskey said he expects development of the new vision, mission and goal statements to take place over multiple meetings, with the council potentially voting to adopt them in late summer or early fall.

Food Pantry Donations Needed

By updating the vision and goals, Teskey said the new initiatives established by the council would be more “Clinton-centric” than the version adopted six years ago, which he said reflected the town’s transition from a Board of Selectmen form of government to a Town Council-Town Manager system.

In November 2025, the council elected Teskey chairman for a two-year term. At that meeting, he identified updating the vision statement as one of the topics he wanted the council to revisit.

The current vision statement was adopted in the fall of 2020 at the request of former Town Manager Karl Kilduff.

“As a new council and the first council under this form of government, I felt there was a benefit to having the council work on a common direction to facilitate consensus. This is a practice I have done with other councils and it helps to find the common ground,” Kilduff told the Harbor News at the time.

The Town Council had existed for less than a year when the statement was adopted, and it was intended to help members work toward common goals for the benefit of the town.

The vision statement adopted in 2020 reads: “The Clinton Town Council is committed to providing quality, efficient and effective services for our citizens; serving as stewards of the Town’s finances, assets and environmental resources; maintaining our desirable location by encouraging opportunities; and displaying honesty, respectfulness, and fairness in all relationships.”

The statement also established six goals, including maintaining a stable tax rate, providing cost-effective services, preserving quality of life, encouraging economic development, improving community engagement and promoting a sustainable, effective town workforce.

The Clinton Food Pantry is seeking donations of pasta (regular or gluten free), pasta sauce, rice, canned tuna, canned chicken, canned vegetables, and personal hygiene products. Donations can be placed in a reusable bag on the porch or doorstep to be picked up by volunteers. To schedule a pickup, text any of the following: Paula, 203927-2480; Jane, 860-510-2991; or Erin, 860-227-5130. For more information, visit clintonct.org.

Celebrate the Sounds of Your Life

Every few years, technology takes a significant leap forward. The Doctors of Audiology and Hearing Aid Specialists at County Hearing and Balance use this new technology to help improve your hearing in ways never even imagined just a few years ago. Sound is crisp, clear, and more natural, providing a truly advanced listening experience.

Trust your hearing to the professionals at County Hearing and Balance. We are the area’s oldest, locally owned, full service Audiology Center. We provide a professional and thorough assessment of your hearing ability and provide several options if improvement is needed. If hearing aids are necessary, we work with several of the largest manufacturers to ensure that you are getting the right instrument for your hearing loss, at the right price. Plus we participate or process most insurance and discount plans, including Medicare, Medicare supplements, Anthem, United Health, Tricare, Aetna, Connecticare and AARP.

Call any of our convenient offices

Coralie Williams: Sharing the Joy of Reading

Continued from page 2

and movement. Her favorite part of the job, however, is Friday story time, where she enjoys reading aloud and getting children excited about books.

“I tend to pick the funny books,” she says.

Outside the library, Williams raised her two daughters in Clinton. One now lives in Maine, and Williams enjoys traveling to

visit her. She also enjoys walking her dogs and is, by her own admission, obsessed with pickleball.

Williams says none of the library’s success would be possible without the people around her, including her coworkers, library director, volunteers, and community members.

“I am definitely not doing this by myself,” she says. “It takes a village.”

Opera Theater of Connecticut seeks six to eight children ages 8 to 14 for the children's chorus in its 2026 mainstage production of Puccini's Tosca. Boys and girls who can read music and sing are encouraged to participate. Rehearsals begin Wednesday, July 22, in Madison, with additional rehearsals in Clinton. Performances are scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8, and Sunday, Aug. 9, at The Morgan School in Clinton. For more information, including schedules and audition information, contact Opera Theater of Connecticut at 860-669-8999 or otc@otcsings.org.

Obituaries

Obituary David

Allen

Westbrook Continued from page 6

David Albert Allen, 71, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and formerly of Westbrook, died at home on May 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, with his lifelong soulmate, Carol Zinser, by his side.

friend, he fell in love with the Grand Canyon and later chose to live there with his wife, Carol. He spent 25 years working at the park, becoming its most requested tour guide.

Old Saybrook Youth & Family Services will offer a Junior Strings summer session for students entering grades 3 and 4. The program will be held Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21, and 28. Participants will perform with the Senior Strings on the Town Green on Wednesday, July 29, prior to the evening’s headlining performance. The program will focus on ukulele and guitar, with instruments and instruction provided. Enrollment is limited to 10 students for this pilot program. For more information or to register, visit www.osyfs.org.

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, July 13, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the following:

PZC-26-9: Special Exception for a Shopping Center pursuant to Section 27.2.25 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 224 East Main Street, Map 78, Block 70, Lot 159A, Zone B-4. Applicant: Seamus Moran, H&H Engineering Associates, LLC.

PZC-26-14: Planning and Zoning Commission sponsored Zoning Map Amendment and associated Zoning Regulations Text Amendments to Sections 21 and 33 and the addition of new Section 24 “Parking Management District” and 33.12 “Parking Needs Assessment” to comply with the parking related requirements and restrictions of Public Act 25-1.

PZC-26-15: Site Plan for the cap and closure of the Clinton landfill, pursuant to Section 27.2.51 of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 0 Old Nod Rd, Map 14, Block 3, Lot 18, Zone IP. Applicant: Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc.

At said Hearing, all persons will have the right to be heard. The application(s) and correspondence are available for public inspection on the Town’s website.

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

David is survived by his sisters, Christine Davis, Peg Allen, and Priscilla Allen, all of Ashfield, Mass.; his sons, Joseph and wife, Kassandra, of Maryland, and Steven and partner, Amanda, of Easthampton, Mass.; his grandchildren, Jack and Ruby; his niece, Melaney; and nephews, Robbie, Joshua, and Patrick.

David lived an extraordinarily full life and embraced each day with a childlike spirit of adventure. He was almost always seen with a smile, a story to share, and often a guitar in hand. Truly kind and deeply compassionate, he rarely had an unkind word for anyone.

From a young age, David chose a path less ordinary and always found adventure around the next corner. During a camping trip with a high school

LEGAL

Over the years, David held many unique and memorable jobs. In addition to decades of construction work, he worked with the Clyde Beatty Circus, served as a docent for the Titanic Exhibit in Florida, and worked as a dinosaur fossil preparator in Las Vegas.

David's passion for history and music inspired many of his hobbies. He joined the Westbrook Fife and Drum Corps in Connecticut as a fife player and was also a member of the 10th Massachusetts Militia, attending many Civil War reenactments and spending weekends immersed in encampment life.

A gifted storyteller and poet, David spent years writing stories, poems, and songs, leaving behind an extensive collection of creative work and music.

David was predeceased by his parents, Violet and Buzz Allen; his brother, Stevie; and his sister, Louise.

David's ashes will be interred at Beaverdale Cemetery in Hamden. A private family burial is planned.

TOWN OF WESTBROOK TAX OFFICE

Tax Collector Kimberly Bratz is notifying taxpayers that the first half payment of Real Estate; Personal Property and Motor Vehicle Taxes on the Grand List Year of October 1, 2025 are due and payable during the month of July, 2026. Tax payments may be mailed

To:

Tax Collector Town of Westbrook 866 Boston Post Road Westbrook, CT 06498

If you need a receipted bill, please send the entire bill along with a self-addressed stamped envelope to the tax office. A receipted bill will be sent back to you for your records.

You can also pay online at WESTBROOKCT.US. If you pay with an E-Check there will be a $2.00 fee. If you pay by credit card there will be a 2.5% processing fee with a minimum of $2.00 or a $3.95 fee for debit visa.

Taxes will be considered delinquent as of August 4, 2026 and on that date, interest will be charged from the original due date of July 1, 2026. Interest is charged at 18% per annum in accordance with provisions of C.G.S. SEC 12-146.

Tax Office hours are: Monday – Wednesday 9AM – 4 PM, Thursday 9AM – 7PM, Friday 9AM – 12PM.

Kimberly Bratz, C.C.M.C.

Tax Collector, Town of Westbrook

Children's Chorus Auditions for Tosca

Old Saybrook Youth & Family Services Offers Junior Strings Program

NOTICE

Referendum Eyed for Kate, DPW Projects

Continued from page 1

town meeting will be called and adjourned to a referendum.

Fortuna emphasized that the timeline remains tentative but said he hopes both projects will appear as separate questions on a referendum ballot in late September. Listing the projects separately would allow voters to approve one while rejecting the other.

Fortuna noted that both buildings are town-owned. While improvements to The Kate would be funded through a combination of donations and town funds, the public works garage project would be funded entirely with town money.

The Projects

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, which opened in 2009, is a 285seat nonprofit theater at 300 Main St. in Old Saybrook. The venue hosts roughly 300 performances annually and also houses a museum honoring the actress.

The Kate announced the proposed upgrades earlier this year. At the time, officials said plans called for a two-story, 7,200-square-foot addition, along with improvements to other portions of the building. The addition would include four flexible, multipurpose rooms that could be combined into a second event space for

acoustic performances, lectures, dances and other activities. Officials said the project would not affect the existing main theater.

Robin Andreoli, director of development and community relations for The Kate, estimated at the time that the expansion would cost between $10 million and $15 million.

Fortuna said the planned improvements are “important improvements to a town building that could allow for more town activity.”

As for the public works garage, Fortuna said that while the project is not as high profile as The Kate, it is “incredibly necessary.”

The project would provide new lockers, a small kitchen, a small conference area, upgraded showers and bathrooms, and additional storage for equipment.

“It’s going to give them a facility that is decent, it’s nothing extravagant,” Fortuna said.

Fortuna said the current garage, at 477 Middlesex Turnpike, is more than 60 years old, is in poor condition and lacks sufficient space to house large equipment.

The ability to move additional equipment indoors is particularly important, Fortuna said, because it would both better preserve the equipment and prevent oil and cleaning materials from seeping into the ground.

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.

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

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.

Free Drug Lock Boxes Available at OSYFS

Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St., is offering free drug lock boxes to community members during regular office hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. OSYFS also has prevention pamphlets and informational materials available in the entrance lobby covering a variety of prevention-related topics. Community members may stop by the office to pick up materials and resources. For more information, contact OSYFS at 860-395-3190 or visit oldsaybrookct.gov.

Goodwill Seeks Donations

Goodwill of Southern Connecticut is seeking donations of clothing and other items. Items most needed right now include clothing for men, women, and children, as well as linens and household items such as small kitchen appliances, glasses, and dishware. Donations are accepted at 369 East Main Street, Clinton. For more information, visit www.goodwillsne.org.

Free Electronics Recycling in Old Saybrook

Residents may dispose of unwanted electronics, free of charge, at the Old Saybrook Transfer Station, 499 Middlesex Turnpike, on Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Accepted materials include, but are not limited to, computers, laptops, printers, fax machines, monitors, TVs, cell phones, tablets, video games, game consoles, VCR/DVD machines, remotes, keyboards, computer mice, modems, small appliances, and stereo equipment. Unaccepted materials include ballasts, propane tanks, and household hazardous waste. For more information, visit www.oldsaybrookct.org.

TOWN OF CLINTON NOTICE OF DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

Notice is hereby given that a Primary of the political party listed below will be held in your town on August 11, 2026 for nomination to each office indicated below.

Notice is also hereby given that the following are the names of the party-endorsed candidates, if any, for nomination to each office indicated, together with the street address of said candidate. The party endorsed candidates, if any, are indicated by an asterisk. Additionally, the following are the names of all other candidates who have filed their certificates of eligibility and consent to primary or have satisfied the primary petitioning requirements in conformity with the General Statutes as candidates for nomination to each office indicated, together with the street addresses of said candidates.

Office Party Candidate Address

Governor Democratic *Ned Lamont 4 Ashton Drive, Greenwich, CT 06831

Governor Democratic Josh Elliott 28 Cobblestone Dr., Hamden, CT 06518

Dated at Hartford, Connecticut, this 23rd day of June, 2026.

Stephanie Thomas Secretary of the State

The foregoing is a copy of the notice which I have received from the Office of the Secretary of the State, in accordance with Section 9-433 of the General Statutes. As provided the primary will begin with early voting on August 3, 2026 through August 9, 2026, and the primary of the referenced party for nomination to the state or district offices therein specified will be held on August 11, 2026. The hours of voting during early voting and at said primary and the location of the polls will be as follows:

Early Voting - Hours of Voting: Location: William Stanton Andrews Memorial Town Hall

August 03, 2026 - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm 54 East Main Street - Green Room

August 04, 2026 - 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Clinton, CT 06413

August 05, 2026 - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

August 06, 2026 - 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

August 07, 2026 - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

August 08, 2026 - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

August 09, 2026 - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

HOURS OF VOTING: 6:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M.

LOCATION OF POLLING PLACES VOTING DISTRICT

William Stanton Andrews Memorial Town Hall 2 54 East Main Street - Green Room Clinton, CT 06413

Absentee Ballots will be counted at the following location: William Stanton Andrews Memorial Town Hall 54 East Main Street - Rose Room Clinton, CT 06413

Dated at Clinton, Connecticut, this 23rd day of June, 2026

Lisa Balter, CCTC

Town Clerk

Town of Clinton

Children Sought for Production Tosca

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer

The Opera Theater of Connecticut is seeking six to eight children to join its August production of , which will also feature a Clinton native and Metropolitan Opera performer in a supporting role.

Tosca

The Clinton-based company is looking for children between the ages of 8 and 14 who can read music and sing. “It’s a great bit for a kid, especially if anyone was in a church choir,” said Artistic Director Alan Mann. “The kids get to have fun and misbehave on stage. Then the next time you see them, they are altar children for a Catholic Mass.”

According to a description from the company, a choir director will work with the children, who will be asked to do a bit of preparation before the first rehearsals. Music rehearsals begin Wednesday, July 22, in Madison for a few sessions. There are then minimal staging rehearsals in Clinton.

Performances are Saturday, Aug. 8, and

Sunday, Aug. 9, at The Morgan School in Clinton. Those interested in the part can email otc@otcsings.org or call 860-6698999.

and who is a Clinton native.

is an opera by Giacomo Puccini that was first performed in Italy in 1900. Opera Theater of Connecticut General Director Kate Ford called the show “one of the chestnuts” that has become a favorite of audiences since it premiered.

Set in 1800s Rome during a looming invasion by Napoleon, the opera is known for its dramatic themes and beautiful music, Ford said.

In particular, Ford said the show’s depiction of a character who uses political capital for personal gain was something that quickly earned Tosca notoriety.

“It was considered a radical approach to the arts then,” Ford said.

Mann said that last year, when the company was deciding which show to produce in 2026, he and Ford happened to have a conversation with David Pittsinger, a bass-baritone who has performed at some of the most iconic venues in opera, including New York’s Metropolitan Opera, Tosca

Pittsinger said that while he has returned to the area to perform several times, he had yet to perform in an opera in Clinton.

“That sold it. The ability to have a star from the Metropolitan Opera who has roots in the area,” Mann said.

Harbor News

In a statement to the , Pittsinger said that returning to Clinton to perform in the opera gives him “an attitude of gratitude.”

“Many of these people supported me and have known me since my earliest days as a boy soprano in the Episcopal Church (Holy Advent), and continued their support of me through junior high, high school, college, and grad school into my earliest professional engagements right up through my Metropolitan Opera and New York City Opera debuts and Broadway,” Pittsinger said. “Returning locally to perform reminds me of the joy I’ve always had performing for people that know and love me in this incredible shoreline community.”

Mann said the company has presented

Tosca before, in 2008 and 2018, and local audiences enjoyed it for its vivid period costumes and dramatic music.

“It’s one of the most popular operas in our repertoire,” Ford agreed.

New for this performance, the show will take place in The Morgan School auditorium instead of the Town Hall theater. In addition to being easier logistically for the company, Mann and Ford said the Morgan School stage offers wonderful acoustics.

“These venues are very audiencefriendly. It’s got very comfortable seating, and I think will be an interesting change from years past,” Ford said.

Tickets can be obtained by visiting www.operatheaterofct.org or by calling 860-669-8999. General admission tickets are $65 for adults, $60 for seniors and $30 for children younger than 18.

Opera Theater of Connecticut was founded in 1986 and is the state’s oldest opera company. More information about the company and its productions can be found at www.operatheaterofct.org.

Opera Theater of Connecticut

The children’s chorus from the 2018 production of Tosca

Rugby Is a Great Sport

Story by Carol Andrecs

Young Rugby and his two siblings showed up at a home during the winter months, desperate for food and shelter, and the compassionate homeowners called Forgotten Felines for help. Rugby is only 2 years old, full of love and affection, and a real player. He loves to show off his athletic skills when playing with toys but warms up quickly to cuddling and attention. Rugby’s black fur is sleek and shiny, making him even more handsome and photogenic. Could you welcome this sweet boy into your home? Come meet Rugby at our open house or apply to adopt him online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

Find Your Match at Forgotten Felines

: Forgotten Felines holds an open house every Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at 153 Horse Hill Road, Westbrook. No appointment is necessary. Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in desperate need of volunteers to help care for the cats and keep our facility clean and organized. If you can donate your time, it will be very rewarding and

Photo by Genevieve Ray

Help Available for Seniors

Are you a Clinton resident aged 70 or over who needs help for basic necessities or repairs to your home? Are you overdue on taxes or struggling to pay heating or utility costs? Grants are available to help eligible seniors live a more comfortable life. For more information or to apply, call Clinton Social Services at 860-669-7347.

The Valley Shore Toastmasters Club meets every first and third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Road. The aim is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where participants can improve their public speaking skills. For more information, email president3940@toastmastersclubs.org or visit www.3940.toastmastersclubs.org.

Honor Your Veteran with a Brick

The VFW of Clinton offers the opportunity to purchase a brick for inclusion in the walkway of the Clinton veterans brick/paver project. Cost is $40 per brick, which includes the inscription of the veteran’s name, rank, military branch, country of conflict, and years of service. Veterans do not have to be from Connecticut. Forms are available at the walk site at Clinton’s Post Office Square. For more information, call Tom Kehoe at 860-669-6979.

Hot Lunch is Available for Seniors

The Estuary serves hot lunch at its main center, 220 Main Street, Old Saybrook, Monday through Friday at noon and at the Clinton Town Hall Annex Community Room, 48 East Main Street, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon. Reservations must be made by 11 a.m. the day prior by calling 860-388-1611, ext. 216. The cost is a suggested donation of $3 for seniors 60 years and older and $14 for people under 60 years. Meals are supported by Senior Resources with Title III funds available from the Older Americans Act. For more information, call The Estuary at 860-388-1611.

Mayer Pavilion Dedicated at Shoreline Medical Center

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer

Shoreline Medical Center in Westbrook unveiled the new Mayer Pavilion during a ceremony June 23. The pavilion is the result of a generous $1 million donation from longtime supporters Sally and George Mayer of Essex.

The medical center, located at 250 Flat Rock Place and part of Middlesex Health, held a special reception to dedicate the pavilion and thank the Mayer family for their donation. The pavilion serves as the main entrance and reception area for the facility.

Several representatives from Middlesex Health, as well as members of the extended Mayer family, were on hand to offer remarks and pose for photos in front of displays bearing the family name.

Speaking to the audience, George Mayer praised Middlesex Health for the accolades and recognition it has received.

“It’s a testament to the level of care Middlesex provides,” Mayer said.

To provide the best level of care possible, Mayer continued, it is imperative that the organization have access to state-of-the-art technology and facilities in order to attract the best possible staff. Mayer credited the organization’s leadership and donors with helping ensure that goal becomes a reality.

“Sally and I are honored to be a part of that support,” Mayer said.

When it was her turn to speak, Sally Mayer took time to thank all the donors, the Mayer family and the staff for their efforts to support the “ever evolving needs” of the health care industry.

“It’s the people in the facility that make the difference,” she concluded.

Besides the Mayer family, speeches were delivered by Middlesex Health board members and officials, each of whom recognized the Mayer family for its

decades of philanthropy and unique ability to solicit donations from its social network and spearhead fundraising campaigns.

The family was recognized not only for its philanthropy in Westbrook, but also in Essex, including through The Mayer Center, a facility that opened in 2022 to provide services for children and adolescents with autism and other developmental challenges.

The Mayer family has given substantial support to Middlesex Health since the 1980s. A press release noted that the family cochaired a campaign that raised more than $6 million to help build the current Westbrook facility, which relocated from Essex to Westbrook in 2014. The center’s radiology department is also named for the family in recognition of its efforts to establish that unit.

In a statement, Middlesex Health President and CEO Vincent Capece said, “For more than 40 years, Sally and George Mayer have helped shape the future of health care in our community through their vision, leadership and generosity.”

“Their extraordinary support has touched countless lives and strengthened Middlesex Health’s ability to provide exceptional care. We are deeply grateful for this remarkable gift and proud to honor their enduring legacy through the dedication of the Mayer Pavilion.”

According to the release, Middlesex Health is a comprehensive health system serving Middlesex County and the Connecticut shoreline. A member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, Middlesex Health includes Middlesex Hospital, a not-for-profit, six-time designated Magnet hospital, two state-of-the-art cancer center locations, three emergency departments, two urgent care centers, and a network of primary care physicians and medical and surgical specialists.

Photo by Eric O'Connell/Harbor News

The Mayer family stands beneath the pavilion dedicated in their honor.

Harbor News

Valley Courier

Thursday, July 2, 2026

Sports

Westbrook Spring Athletes Earn Team Awards

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The Westbrook Knights have wrapped up the spring season, with teams enjoying varying degrees of success. As the school year came to a close, the athletic department recognized several standout performers as well as two student-athletes who will continue their athletic careers in college.

Westbrook honored seniors Natalia Fineza and Adriana Spash for their commitments to compete at the collegiate level. Fineza will play basketball at Albertus Magnus College, while Spash will continue her soccer career at the University of Hartford.

“Congratulations to both athletes on this exciting achievement,” Westbrook Athletic Director Caitlin Eichler said. “Best wishes as they begin the next chapter of their academic and athletic journeys.”

Westbrook also announced its spring sports team award winners.

For the Westbrook/Old Saybrook co-op softball team, Sydney Brown of Westbrook was named Rookie of the Year, Grace O’Brien of Old Saybrook received the Most Improved Player Award, Natalia Fineza of Westbrook earned the Coach’s Award, and Emma Cooke of Old Saybrook was named Most Valuable Player.

On the girls tennis team, Sophie Furcolo received the JV Coach’s Award, while Riley Bogart was named JV Most Improved Player. At the varsity level, Anna Landino earned the Coach’s Award, Alicia Peterson and Lily Ferraro were recognized as Most Improved Players, Natalie Palumbo was named Most Valuable Player, and Adriana Spash received the Team Above Self Award.

On the boys tennis team, Josh Gerratana and Gregory Gerratana were recognized as Most

Improved Players, Jacob Bennett received the Coach’s Award, and Miles Hayden was named Most Valuable Player. At the JV level, Matt Perry earned the Coach’s Award and Drew Cocchiola was named Most Improved Player.

In outdoor track and field, Grace Vincent received the Coach’s Award, Brooke Ouellette

was named the girls Most Valuable Player, and Olivia Lacy earned the Most Improved Player Award.

On the boys side, Ethan Angelini was named Most Valuable Player, Dylan Cocchiola received the Coach’s Award, and Oliver Hansen earned the Most Improved Player Award.

Each award recipient played an important role in helping his or her team throughout the season. While some teams advanced farther than others, each honoree consistently demonstrated dedication, improvement and leadership.

The Knights will return many of these athletes next season, giv-

ing Westbrook a strong foundation to build on. With experienced players returning across several programs and more young talent continuing to develop, the future remains bright for Knights athletics.

Photo courtesy of Caitlin Eichler

Photo courtesy of Caitlin Eichler Westbrook girls team issues team awards for the top performers this season.

Natalia Fineza signs commitment to play college basketball at Albertus Magnus College, while Adriana Spash will continue her soccer career at the University of Hartford.

Photo courtesy of Caitlin Eichler

Westbrook's Sydney Brown, Grace O'Brien, Natalia Fineza and Emma Cooke earned team awards.

Westbrook outdoor track and field athletes highlight top contributors this season.

Rockies Cut the White Sox First Place Lead by Two with a 4-2 Win

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The weather was ideal as four of the top five teams faced each other. Overall scoring dipped this week to a team average of 258 points, down from last week’s 262. The only division to improve its scoring was A Division, where players averaged 112 points, up from 108 last week. Additionally, only nine players recorded a season best in one of the league’s six statistical categories.

Headlines

the White Sox’s first-place lead with a 4-2 win; the Braves held onto second place with a 4-2 victory over the Giants; the Cards stopped the surging Cubs, 5-1; the Pirates came within a point of sweeping the Yankees with a 5 1/2-1/2 win; the Red Sox defeated the struggling Marlins, 5-1; and the Dodgers topped the Rangers, 5-1.

Over the past five weeks, Bob Cifaldi’s Cubs have been the league’s highest-scoring team, but they faced the Cards’ highscoring duo of Kris Toohey and Todd Nuhn. Cifaldi has climbed from last to sixth in scoring over the past four weeks, Toohey ranks second and Nuhn leads B Division. The match proved to be the highest-scoring of the night. Toohey’s double in the final box of game one, combined with the handicap, gave the Cards the win. Toohey and Nuhn combined for 75 points, the night’s high game, to win game two. After the Cubs dropped game three, Cifaldi’s 42 points carried them to victory in game four. Toohey outdueled Cifaldi, 46-41, to win game five, and the Cards again used the handicap to capture the finale. Cifaldi’s 142-point series and Toohey’s 137-point series ranked second and third in A Division, while Nuhn’s 111-point series led B Division. The Cards scored 282 points to the Cubs’ 281 as the Cubs slipped to fifth place.

Sue Pollard’s Rockies looked to top 300 points again as they faced Brady Miller’s first-place White Sox. Keith Toohey substituted for Anthony Malerba.

also recording the fewest open boxes (18), compared with the league average of 33.

White Sox player Kyle Wilson posted a season-best 27 points in game one, and for the fourth time this season his ringer in the final

box delivered the victory. His 22 points in game three proved to be the difference as teammate Bob Beckwith edged Rockies player Warren Bellows, 29-28. Pollard’s

36 points led the Rockies to a double-digit win in game two before they captured the final three games. Every victory came down to the last box: Pollard

scored four points in game four; Bellows threw a double on his final toss in game five; and in the finale, Bellows’ ringer, coupled with the handicap, secured the

The combination of A and B Division players on the Dodgers and Rangers was expected to have both teams in playoff

See Rockies Cut page 17

Photo courtesy of Joseph Heery Bill Beckwith is the A player for the Red Sox and the No.5 scorer in the league and has made the weeks top three scores three times this year.

Rockies Cut the White Sox First

Place Lead by Two with a 4-2 Win

Continued from page 16

contention, but each has struggled. Jeremy Davis and Hunter Beckwith of the Dodgers have been battling to stay out of last place, while Peter Furmonavicius and John Durinick of the Rangers have hovered around .500.

Furmonavicius’ four points in the final box of game one gave the Rangers their lone victory. Davis followed with nine consecutive ringers to win game two. Ralph Sampson helped spark the Dodgers to victories in three of the final four games. His personal-best 85-point series led C Division. Davis and Beckwith outscored Furmonavicius and Durinick, 195-185.

Bill Beckwith’s Red Sox are battling the Dodgers to stay out of last place. John Hutra’s Marlins have been on the same roller coaster as the Rangers.

The Red Sox won the first three games. Beckwith’s 37 points in game one led to a 20-point victory. With no handicap in game two, the Red Sox won by three points before using a seven-point handicap to claim game three by two. Beckwith and Hutra matched scores in game four, but Leif Selander’s points gave the Marlins their lone win. After taking game five, the Red Sox again relied on the handicap to win the finale. Despite the 5-1 victory, the Red Sox remained in last place.

Over the past four weeks, Mike Zanelli Jr.’s Orioles have gone 15-9. During the same span, Tony Cutone’s Angels are 1113 and were looking to close the gap.

The matchup between Zanelli and Cutone did not disappoint. Zanelli’s 34and 32-point games led to double-digit victories in the first two contests as he built a 66-55 advantage over Cutone. Games three and six between the B/C Division players were played without a handicap. Andy Turshen led the Orioles to their third double-digit win. Cutone responded with

31 and 34 points in two Angels victories, outscoring Zanelli 120-115 overall and moving into third place in the A Division standings. Ted Dubay’s 26 points in the finale secured the Orioles’ fourth win.

Once again, John Sciacca’s D’backs did not play in a match with a handicap greater than four points. Leaguewide, there were 26 games featuring handicaps larger than four points. Against Sheryl Serviss’ Tigers, the maximum handicap was three points.

“I prefer these low-handicap games,” Sciacca said.

Frank Durinick substituted for D’backs player Butch Carotenuto, while the matchup between Sciacca and Serviss was another one to watch. The D’backs won the first four games. After two contests, Sciacca held a 56-54 edge over Serviss. Durinick’s 28- and 30-point games without an open box proved key in games two and three, and Sciacca defeated Serviss, 25-20, in game four. Serviss answered with a 3529 win in game five, but Sciacca claimed the head-to-head matchup, 110-109. The Tigers won the final two games by double digits.

Mark Goodale’s Mets looked to take advantage of the handicap in four of six games against Chip Goodrich’s Reds. Bill Lamb substituted for Harvey Strausser. The Reds used their six-point handicap to earn a tie in game one. Goodrich and Joe Heery combined for 60 points in a doubledigit win in game two, and Heery’s 26 points lifted the Reds in game three. Goodale’s 36 points led the Mets in game four. Goodrich and Heery each scored 26 points as the Mets were unable to capitalize on the handicap in game five. Deb Scully’s second 22-point game of the night led the Mets to a victory in the finale. Heery’s 109point series ranked second in B Division, while Scully finished third in C Division with a season-best 75-point series.

Masonry

RogeR

RogeR CRampton

CRampton

PLUMBING l HEATING l AIRCONDITIONING NEWINSTALLATIONSORREPAIRS

RogeR CRampton PLUMBING HEATING l AIRCONDITIONING NEWINSTALLATIONSORREPAIRS

l HEATING l AIRCONDITIONING

Boilers, terHeaters,Wa llpumps,We llWe nks,Ta terﬁltration,Faucets,Wa Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200

RogeR CRampton PLUMBING HEATING l AIRCONDITIONING NEWINSTALLATIONSORREPAIRS

Boilers, WaterHeaters, Wellpumps, Well Tanks, Waterﬁltration,Faucets, Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200

ogeRR RamptonC PLUMBING HEATING l AIRCONDITIONING NEWINSTALLATIONSORREPAIRS

Boilers,

Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200

Boilers, WaterHeaters, Wellpumps, Well Tanks, Waterﬁltration,Faucets, Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200

Boilers, terHeaters,Wa llpumps,We llWe nks,Ta terﬁltration,Faucets,Wa Leakingpipes,Gaspiping 860-434-2200

CTlic#P1-204812 www.RogerCramptonLLC.com

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!

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!

Beyond the Ferry: Discovering Fishers Island

By Steve Fagin

While strolling on a grass-lined path along the western tip of Fishers Island the other day, fellow hikers and I savored views of a sparkling Atlantic Ocean, Race Rock Light, Great Gull and Little Gull islands, and Long Island’s Orient Point.

“Beautiful!” Steve Finton exclaimed. He joined Ben Gardner, Maggie Jones, Andy Lynn, Dorothy Piszczek and me on a loop of the Silver Eel-Race Point Coastal Trail, led by Pierce Rafferty, director of the island’s Henry L. Ferguson Museum.

The trail, which passes through Janet Harvey Sanctuary, not far from the New London ferry landing, also brings hikers next to cavernous gun emplacements once part of historic Fort H.G. Wright. This former military installation, built in 1890, was abandoned in 1949.

The coastal trail and nearby museum are located on the west side of the island, which is open to the public.

Using permits provided by Pierce to bypass a gatehouse at the border of Fishers’ eastern section, we also were able to hike on the Island Pond Trail and visit other attractions that normally are accessible only to residents and their guests.

“Unlike Block Island, which does everything it can to attract tourists, Fishers Island doesn’t want the outside pouring in,” Pierce said.

He noted that restricting visitors not

early-morning paddle in bright sunshine, light breezes and millpond-flat seas.

After we stashed our boats in West Harbor, Pierce, Maggie and Steve picked us up in two cars, and we drove to the Betty Matthiessen Wildlife Sanctuary on the east side of Fishers, just past a golf driving range.

The Island Pond Trail, lined with ferns, bayberry, blueberry, azalea, sumac and other native plants, meanders through a peninsula that juts into a nearly half-acre body of water. As the trail guide notes, this pond had been fresh water before storm surge from the Hurricane of 1938 washed over a barrier beach and turned it brackish, allowing softshell clams and oysters to live there.

only ensures privacy for a population that swells from about 400 year-round residents to more than 2,000 in summer, it also protects Fishers Island’s exceptional nature preserves. The museum’s Land Trust manages some 400 acres of wildlife sanctuaries, amounting to about 15% of the island’s total land area.

Maggie, who helped arrange our visit, said the island features “incredible natural diversity.” She had been invited to

Fishers often when serving as executive director of Mystic’s Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. Now the center’s director emeritus, Maggie recently spent time upgrading the island’s trail guide and helping improve informational signs that are posted throughout the sanctuaries. Maggie and Steve reached the island by ferry, while Dorothy, Ben, Andy and I kayaked about 3 miles from Noank’s Esker Point Beach. It was a glorious,

When our group reached the edge of the pond, we watched a boat head out with a crew from the Fishers Island Oyster Farm, a family-run business founded in 1981 by Sarah and Steve Malinowski. The oyster season has ended; from October through April or May, the company ships oysters to about 50 restaurants and seafood markets throughout the East Coast, including half a dozen in Mystic and Waterford. Locals now often refer to Island Pond as Oyster Pond.

The 8-acre wildlife sanctuary was donated to the Land Trust in memory of Elizabeth C. Matthiessen by her husband, Erard A. Matthiessen, and their son,

See Beyond the Ferry page 25

Photo by Steve Fagin

Like this strip of sand facing Connecticut on the north shore of Fishers Island, all beaches are open to the public within the mean high-water mark. Access from private land, though, can be restricted.

A boat carries a crew at Fishers Island Oyster Farm, a family-run business founded in 1981 by Sarah and Steve Malinowski.

Special to Living

Photo by Steve Fagin

Kayakers paddle out of Noank’s Palmer Cove on their way to a hiking excursion on Fishers Island.

Beyond the Ferry: Discovering Fishers Island

Continued from page 24

Peter Matthiessen, the late novelist, naturalist, and wilderness writer.

Peter Matthiessen, the only writer to have won a National Book Award in both nonfiction, for “The Snow Leopard,” in 1979, and fiction, for “Shadow Country,” in 2008, is among a long list of notables who have lived or summered on Fishers Island, including members of the duPont, Firestone, Rockefeller and Whitney families.

We drove past the Fishers Island Club, which boasts having one of the nation’s top 10 golf courses, and is known as “The Big Club,” to distinguish it from the Hay Harbor Club on the island’s west side.

Pierce arranged for us to have our lunches on the sprawling deck of one of Fishers Island’s most spectacular waterfront mansions. While we munched sandwiches and basked in the sun, Pierce, an author, historian and first-class raconteur, regaled us with tales of celebrities who have visited the island, including George Harrison and the entire Monty Python troupe.

Pierce had a brief career as a filmmaker — he; his brother, Kevin; and Jayne Loader directed “The Atomic Café,” a 1982 documentary about how the government sought to ease concerns about nuclear weapons during the Cold War. Although not shown widely in theaters, the movie became a cult classic, and in 2016 was chosen by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry.

After lunch, we drove to Isabella Beach, on Fishers’ south shore, where a handful of islanders stretched out in the sand and waded in gentle waves. From a steep bluff overlooking the beach, we were able to see Block Island, which lies about 20 miles southeast. If you were to continue sailing in that direction, you wouldn’t hit land for another 3,200 miles to Portugal.

From Isabella Beach, we drove back to the public section on the west side of the island, passing a well-kept neighborhood that includes subsidized housing provided by the Walsh Park Benevolent Corp. The nonprofit organization, formed in 1987, reports that about 60 residents take advantage of the program.

Pierce noted that the island was more heavily developed and tourist-friendly a century ago, when there were three grand hotels, a smaller hotel and a boarding house that together could accommodate 400 guests. Today, The Pequot functions as the island’s only restaurant, but no longer operates as a hotel. In keeping with a penchant for privacy, there are no

overnight accommodations for visitors anywhere on Fishers Island.

Pierce noted that the stock market crash of 1929 stalled an extensive development project that had been planned for the island, enabling a land-preservation movement to take root.

The museum, which details the island’s history, dating back to its discovery by Dutch fur trader Adriaen Block in 1614, also highlights an array of natural and geographic exhibits and offers a full schedule of speakers and community events, all at no charge. It welcomes visitors. More information, visit fergusonmuseum.org.

We enjoyed touring the museum and its handsome grounds before heading back to Connecticut in late afternoon. The wind had picked up, and there were a few whitecaps on our return paddle, but we made it to Esker Point in less than an hour. A great trip, we all agreed.

Photo by Steve Fagin

A walkway and gazebo connect to the Henry L. Ferguson Museum on Fishers Island.

Photo by Steve Fagin

Silver Eel-Race Point Coastal Trail overlooks the Atlantic Ocean along the west shore of Fishers Island.

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

THURSDAY, JULY 2

Colonial Kids

: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Presented by the Connecticut Museum. Features hands-on activities and reproduction objects exploring daily life for children in Colonial Connecticut, including clothing, school, chores, and toys. For children ages 4 to 9. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-5266039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Pick Your Project Glass Class

: 2 p.m. RiverFire Glass, 500 Main St., Deep River. Create a fused-glass project. No experience necessary. For info or to register, email RiverFireGlass@gmail.com or visit riverfireglass.com.

Patriotic Suncatchers

: 2:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Features a craft program using stickon gems to decorate patriotic-themed suncatchers. For children ages 4 and older. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Teen Crafternoon: Make Your Own Stickers

: 3 to

4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will create stickers using parchment paper, packing tape, and other materials. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Unearth a Fossil

: 4:30 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Features a fossil workshop for children presented by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Part of the Unearth a Story summer reading program. For info or to register, call 203-488-8702.

Voices and Visions of the American Revolution

: 5:30

p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a screening reel based on The American Revolution, a documentary by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, followed by a discussion. Free. Seating is limited. For info or to register (suggested), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

All-American Dessert Tween Cooking Class

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Participants will make apple crumbles with homemade whipped cream. For ages 10 to 14. Presented by Food Explorers. For info or to register (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

: 6 p.m.

Madison Beach Hotel, 94 West Wharf Rd. Community cookout on the hotel lawn and beach overlooking Madison's Independence Day fireworks celebration. Features summertime favorites, a beach bar, and live music from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fireworks are scheduled to begin during the 9 p.m. hour. Free admission; food and beverages available for purchase. Rain date: July 10. For info, contact 203-245-1404 or Marketing@DHGHotels.com, or visit eventvesta.com.

Shoreline Sailing Club Event

: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. For active singles 35 and older. Features information on sailing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and other club activities. Guests welcome. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

Willoughby Book Talk:

What We Can Know by Ian McEwan

7 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Book: . Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-488-8702.

FRIDAY, JULY 3

Fourth of July Concert on the Green

: 6 p.m. Madison Green, 8 Meeting House Lane. Celebrates Independence Day, America’s 250th anniversary, and Madison’s 200th anniversary. Features a performance by the Lancraft Fife & Drum Corps at 6 p.m., followed by the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra at 7 p.m. under the direction of Maestro Philip Ventre, presenting “Echoes of Our Past in Spirit and Song.” Free. Reserved seating in front of the stage is available for sponsors. Bring chairs and a picnic dinner. Rain date: Sunday, July 5 at the same time. For info or sponsorship opportunities, visit madisonculturalarts.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 4

48th Annual Four on the Fourth Road Race

: 9 a.m.

Chester village. Presented by the Chester Rotary Club. USATF-sanctioned road race through the village of Chester. Timing by Super Race Systems. Team and individual awards will be presented. Fees $40 through July 4; $15 for children under 16. Proceeds benefit local charities and nonprofit organizations. For info or to register, visit runsignup.com (search “Chester Rotary Four on the Fourth”) or chesterrotary.org.

Family Friendly Fourth of July

: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford. Features flag decorating, a parade around the big barn, a flag-raising ceremony, blacksmith demonstrations, farm animals, museums, live music, and the weekly farmers market. For info, visit dudleyfarm.com.

Calendar for the Week of July 2, 2026

Madison Independence Day Parade

: 10 a.m. Begins at the Stop & Shop parking lot and proceeds through downtown Madison to the Surf Club. Hosted by the Madison Exchange Club. Celebrates Madison’s bicentennial and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The Town of Madison will serve as grand marshal. For info, visit madisonexchange.org.

Fourth of July Celebration

: Noon to 3 p.m. Downtown Essex and the Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Features a scavenger hunt, museum exhibits, a children's activity, the annual Independence Day Boat Parade at 2 p.m., and ceremonial cannon fire. Evening festivities continue at The Griswold Inn, 36 Main St., where members of the Essex Sailing Masters of 1812 will welcome patrons and music will be featured in the Tap Room. In celebration of America's 250th anniversary, Connecticut River Museum admission is discounted by $2.50. For info, call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Ringing of Bells by Town Green Churches

: 2 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Part of the America 250 Guilford celebration series. For info, contact tarutisj@guilfordct.gov.

SUNDAY, JULY 5

A Day in the Revolution at Pardee-Morris House

: Noon to 4 p.m. Pardee-Morris House, 325 Lighthouse Rd., New Haven. Features Revolutionary War reenactments by the 54th Regiment of Foot with musket drills, fife-anddrum music, colonial crafts, and games. Free. For info or weather updates, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Free Concert in the Garden: From Colonies to Independence: Songs of America's Transition

: 3 to

4:30 p.m. Hart House Heritage Gardens, 350 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features songs and stories about life in the American colonies and early republic, performed by Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Free. For info, visit saybrookhistory.org.

Guilford Celebrates 250 Ceremony and Concert

MONDAY, JULY 6

Experiencing America Book Club

More Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson & Johnson

: 5 p.m. Guilford Town Green. Part of the America 250 Guilford celebration series. For info, contact tarutisj@guilfordct.gov. : 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Book: by Gardiner Harris. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

See page 27

Americana Cookout and Madison's Fireworks

Goodspeed, Ivoryton, Legacy and Yale Rep Among Local Theaters

Nominated for CT Critics Circle Awards

Inside notes and comments about Connecticut and New York professional theater

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

CT Critics Awards

: The CT Critics Circle (I am a member) presented its awards for outstanding productions and performances during the 2025-26 season on Monday, June 22, at Hartford Stage. Goodspeed walked away with five awards: outstanding musical, director (Rob Ruggiero), choreography (Parker Esse and Baayork Lee), and featured actor (Diego Guevara) for , and outstanding actor (Ryan Mac) for

A Chorus Line All Shook Up

Aisle ON THE

Playhouse; outstanding featured actor in a play (Terrence Riggins) for at Long Wharf; and featured actress (Missy Dowse) for Fox on the Fairway at Music Theatre of Connecticut. The livestream of the ceremony is available at CtCritics.org.

July 26. The Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of how the Declaration of Independence was written and signed. While historically accurate, the show is “a lively, human, and often surprisingly funny look at the complicated people behind the founding of the United States.” For tickets, visit IvorytonPlayhouse.org.

Crazy for You

: Tickets are selling so fast for Goodspeed’s summer production of that nine additional performances have been added: Thursday, July 9, at 2 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 12, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, Aug. 13, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 14, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 15, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 16, at 2 p.m. Contact Goodspeed.org for tickets.

Death of a Salesman Oedipus Fallen Angels

Death of a Salesman Rope

Waitress Dear Evan Hansen Circus Fire

All Is Calm

Rhinoceros

Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill

Hartford Stage received three awards — outstanding lighting for and outstanding costumes and direction (Melia Bensussen) for . ACT of CT also earned three awards: outstanding actress (Abigail Sparrow) and featured actress (Shaylen Harger) for , and outstanding projections for . The outstanding ensemble award went to at TheaterWorks Hartford; outstanding play to at Playhouse on Park; outstanding actor in a play (Reg Rogers) for at Yale Rep; outstanding actress in a play (Christina Acosta Robinson) for at Ivoryton

Continued from page 26

: Donna Lynn Hilton, longtime Goodspeed line producer and now artistic director, received the Tom Killen Award for outstanding contributions to Connecticut theater. She has overseen the development of new works, the establishment of a program to commission musicals, and the Johnny Mercer Foundation Writers Grove.

: The critics presented James Bundy, who is retiring as dean of the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale and artistic director of Yale Rep, with a special award. Rebecka Jones and Noble Shropshire also received special awards. They have appeared in every production of Hartford Stage’s A Christmas Carol since its inaugural year.

Celebrating Our Birthday

: Ivoryton is celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday with a production of through Sunday,

1776

Monday Funday for Teens: Make Your Own Slime

: 3 to

4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will make slime with optional decorative additions. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Pop-In Storytime with Teachers

: 4 to 4:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features stories with a surprise guest teacher from Jerome Harrison School or Totoket Valley Elementary School. For info, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

MONDAY, JULY 6 THROUGH THURSDAY, JULY 9

Community Service Camp: Grades 7 to 12

: 9 a.m. to noon, Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St., Old Saybrook. Program includes a food drive, assist-

Awaiting the Surprise

: ACT of CT in Ridgefield has announced its first two shows of its 2026-27 season and hinted that the final show (from May 20 to June 20) will be “one of the most epic and beloved musicals ever written.” (I have thoughts about what it may be.) The season will open with from Oct. 22 to Nov. 22, followed by from Feb. 4 to March 7. For more information about the shows and ticket packages, visit ACTofCT.org.

Thoughts on the Tony Awards

Some of my picks won — John Lithgow, Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Lesley Manville, and — while others lost. I have to admit I was surprised that won best musical; I wanted

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Avenue Q Ragtime Schmigadoon!

Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New

ing local community partners, and meal preparation at the Estuary. $35 residents; $40 non-residents. Registration required. For info, visit osyfs.org.

MONDAY, JULY 6 THROUGH FRIDAY, JULY 10

Girls Enrichment Program

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 56 High St., Deep River. Presented by Tri-Town Youth Services. Program focused on friendships, leadership, and identity, with daily visits from guest speakers sharing their professions or special talents. For girls entering grades 5 through 8. For info or to register, visit ttysb.org.

TUESDAY, JULY 7

Junior Strings

: 9 to 10 a.m. Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Program for students entering grades 3 to 4 introducing string instruments and basic music skills. Fee is $40. Registration required. For info, visit osyfs.org.

to win, but thought would. Since I was not impressed by the production of , I would not have voted for director Joe Mantello nor Laurie Metcalf as featured actress. I thought the best revival of a play should have gone to the brilliant production of or the equally good production of . :

Multiple Nominations, No Tonys

Two shows that received a total of 17 nominations did not receive any Tony Awards. One was my favorite musical of the year, ; the other was . Also getting shut out despite multiple nominations were Joe Turner’s , , , , , and the play . Some of these are limited runs, while others may be closing.

Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York The Rocky Horror Show Come and Gone Every Brilliant Thing Titanique Chess Cats: The Jellicle Ball The Balusters

What’s Playing in Connecticut

Sweeney Todd

Swingtime Canteen Crazy for You

: at Hartford Stage (a co-production with TheaterWorks) through July 5; at Sharon Playhouse through July 5; at Goodspeed through Aug. 16; and 1776 at Ivoryton through July 26. York The Lost Boys

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, Connecticut Theatre Women’s Network, and the American Theatre Critics Association.

Pick Your Project Glass Class

: 2 p.m. RiverFire Glass, 500 Main St., Deep River. Create a fused-glass project. No experience necessary. For info or to register, email RiverFireGlass@gmail.com or visit riverfireglass.com.

How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are with Mark Wolynn

: 2 p.m. Virtual program hosted by Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features author Mark Wolynn discussing his book, , and the impact of inherited family trauma. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Virtual Author Talk with Mark Wolynn It Didn't Start with You It Didn’t Start With You The Official It Didn’t Start With You Workbook

: 2 p.m. Online. Book: and . Features a discussion with author Mark Wolynn on inherited family trauma and its effects across generations. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

See page 29

Gem of the Ocean

Tom Killen Award

Special Awards

Page Turners

Nymph bySofiaMontrone

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.

Sublimation byIsabelJ.Kim

Call Me by Your Name

This book is a great summer read! To put it simply, it’s like a sapphic , but it’s also so much more. Taking place in Italy, the novel follows Leo as she works at her grandmother’s hotel and comes of age. The story is interspersed with tales of Odysseus and the Trojan War to bolster its themes of family and relationships.

— Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

My love for this novel is difficult to put into words. Isabel J. Kim dabbles in a little bit of everything as she spins an elaborate tale of corporate espionage and (inter)interpersonal drama with four distinct characters... or are they two... or three? Find out in this alternate reality, where crossing a border might split you in two, and experience the horrifying ordeal of being known. And unknown. And known again.

— Josh, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

— Heather, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison Heather byCaitlinMullen

SomeoneElse'sHusband byKimberlyMcCreight

With generations of women circling the same small-town mystery, readers of all ages will find something to relate to in this thoughtful, well-developed story. Great for fans of Tara French and Paula Hawkins.

Hoping that her dark past is behind her, Frankie Callahan makes the lifealtering decision to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, having no idea that she will be the only woman joining a group of four longtime college friends—or that she will fall recklessly in love. Told from multiple points of view, this is a thriller that will keep you guessing!

— Marilyn, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Page Turners

Continued from page 28

EnchantedCreatures byNatalieLawrence

On the walls of caves, some 25,000 years ago, people not so different from us painted images of their world, including monstrous creatures that did not exist. It seems that enchanted creatures, from Grendel to Godzilla, are a part of being human. Natalie Lawrence makes an enchanting case that these creatures have a lot to tell us about ourselves. As she so eloquently says, “...we still enjoy seeing impossible things. We delight in feeling like the world might be filled with wonders and magic. It might be that we need other kinds of truth, beyond the scientific, to fully experience the world around us.”

— Andrew, Breakwater Books, Guilford

BratSummer byKatieVernon

Follow along as Weenie gives you great ideas for fun summer activities. This is a great summer read to inspire you and remind you to enjoy the season!

— Marisa, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

SocialAnimals byCamillePerri

Overbearing husband Silas is feeling insecure and hires a private investigator to dig into his wife June’s personal life. Enter Val and her new rescue dog, Cash, into the dog park that’s run like the PTA at a private school, where June and other snobbish, wealthy moms make a show of spoiling their dogs and outdoing one another. Val is quickly accepted alongside another dogless newcomer, Alex, whom June can’t help but take pity on. Will anyone see through the slobber, zoomies and muddy paws to wonder about the convenient arrival of these two new women? Could they share a shady history or nefarious intentions? And will there be enough money to renovate the dog park?

— Mel, R.J. Julia Booksellers, Madison

Continued from page 27

S.T.E.A.M. Lab

: 3:15 to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities for rising firstthrough sixthgrade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Pet Care 101

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a pet care workshop presented by the Connecticut Humane Society for children ages 8 to 12. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Wacky Wildlife: Killer Whales

: 5:30 to 6 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Features information about killer whales and a related craft activity. For children ages 6 to 11. For info or to register (required), call 203-3156020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Medium: Patricia Griffin

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a presentation by evidential medium Patricia Griffin. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Trivia Night

: 6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features an evening of trivia. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Chester Hose Co. Auxiliary Open Meeting

: 7 p.m. Chester Hose Company Firehouse, 6 High St. Learn about the Chester Hose Co. Auxiliary and opportunities to support local emergency personnel and community events. Membership is open to men and women interested in volunteering. For info, contact Charlene Janecek at 860-575-0063 or c.janecek@aol.com.

Continued from page 29

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8

Boys Group

: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St., Old Saybrook. For boys entering grades 7 and 8. Includes off-site trips and activities. $60. Registration required. For info, email adam.stahr@oldsaybrookct.gov.

East River Loop Trail Walk

: 9:30 a.m. Meet at the parking lot at 45 Sullivan Dr., Guilford. Features an easy onehour walk through open fields, forested areas, and rolling terrain led by a volunteer from the Guilford Land Trust. Hosted by Shoreline Village CT. Rain cancels in the event of a torrential downpour. For info, visit ShorelineVillageCT.org.

Federalist Fathers and Republican Mothers: The Fashions of John and Abigail Adams

: 5:30 p.m. Virtual program hosted by Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features an illustrated lecture by textile expert Lynne Bassett on clothing and identity in early America. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Sea Chantey: Music of the Sea

: 5:30 p.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Presented by the Mystic Seaport Museum. Features sea chanteys, maritime music, and demonstrations of instruments used aboard ships, including the concertina, accordion, bones, and fiddle. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Calligraphy that Inspired a Nation: Learn to Write Like America's Founders

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Calligrapher Debby Reelitz will discuss the writing of the Declaration of Independence and lead participants in calligraphy activities using dip pens and ink. For info or to register (required), call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Songwriters in the Round

: 6 to 8 p.m. Guilford Yacht Club, 379 Whitfield St. Features performances by Eddie Seville, Marc Douglas Berardo, and Frank Critelli. Free for residents of Guilford, Madison, Branford, North Branford, and Killingworth and their guests. For adults 21 and older. BYOB. Rain location: Guilford Yacht Club ballroom. For info, contact 203-738-9124 or billrowen@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, JULY 9

Guilford Food Bank Outdoor Clean-Up

: 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Guilford Food Bank, 45 Stone House Ln. Volunteers will assist with cleanup of the food bank's outdoor areas as part of United Way of Greater New Haven's Week of Action. For info, visit uwgnh.org.

Afternoon Fiction Book Club

Author Talk with Christopher Shaw Myers on Actor Robert Shaw

: 2 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features author Christopher Shaw Myers discussing his book, . For adults and teens. For info or to register (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Teen Crafternoon: Make Your Own Zine

SATURDAY, JULY 11

Holiday Craft Sale

: 1 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Book: by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

My Dear Hamilton

Movie Matinee

Summer Movie Nite

: 3 to 4 p.m.

Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will learn how to create a small self-published magazine. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

: 5:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a screening in the Buel Room. For movie information, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Features family movie screenings with popcorn. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Summer Nights @ APL: Our Founding Mothers with Storyteller Monica Peterson

Opening Night for

FRIDAY,

JULY 10

Jurassic Classroom

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Essex Green. Hosted by First Baptist Church in Essex. Features handcrafted holiday items and gifts for sale. For info, call 860-7678623.

Perennial Plant Sale:

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. United Methodist Church, 811 E. Main St., Branford. Features perennial plants including daylilies, hydrangeas, yarrow, Shasta daisies, hostas, stokesia, and other varieties. For info, call 203-488-0549.

Vintage Treasures Antique and Classic Boat Show

: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Hosted by the Southern New England Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society. Features antique and classic wooden and fiberglass boats, including mahogany runabouts from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, displayed both in the water and on land. Free admission. For info, call 860-767-8269.

Birds Are Dinosaurs!

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features stories of Sybil Ludington and two sisters who helped defend their New England town during the War of 1812. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Library. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

: 10 to 11 a.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Presented by Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. Features live bird ambassadors and hands-on activities exploring the connection between birds and dinosaurs. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Blessing of the Fleet

Food Group: The Big Cheese

Robert Shaw: An Actor's Life on the Set of Jaws and Beyond The Big Cheese

: 7 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Island Rd., Branford. The show runs through Sunday, Aug. 2. Other showtimes available. For info, call 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org.

: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St., Deep River. Features a mobile dinosaur fossil exhibit with specimens on display and an educator available to answer questions. Free. For info, call 860526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Opening Reception for Jaws

The Wizard of Oz Painted Passage

: 11 a.m. Stony Creek Beach, Thimble Island Road, Branford. Features a parade of watercraft receiving a blessing from local clergy and live music by the Stony Creek Fife and Drum Corps. Sponsored by Stony Creek Congregational Church, Thimble Island Sailing Club, and The Stony Creek Association. For info, contact 203-488-7827 or office@stonycreekchurchct.org.

The Music of Horace Silver with The Russ Becker & Stephen Roane Duo

: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a story and snack-making program inspired by Jory John's . For children ages 4 to 12. Children ages 4 to 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

: 4 to 8 p.m. Artevistica Gallery, 191 Middlesex Turnpike, Essex. Features paintings and sculpture by Essex artist Rick Silberberg. The exhibition runs through July. For info, call 860680-7528 or visit ricksilberberg.com.

Outcasts & Innocents: The Musical World of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears

: 7 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Madison Lyric Stage presents a semi-staged celebration of composer Benjamin Britten and tenor Peter Pears featuring excerpts from Peter Grimes, Billy Budd, The Turn of the Screw, War Requiem, and other works. Tickets: $40. For info or tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.

: 2 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a program on the history of Connecticut native, jazz composer, pianist, and band leader Horace Silver, presented by musicians Russ Becker and Stephen Roane. Sponsored by the John Loeb Lecture Fund. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Fireworks and Concert

: 6 p.m. Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Ln. Part of the America 250 Guilford celebration series. For info, contact tarutisj@guilfordct.gov.

A Night of Art, Harmony and Hope

: 6 to 10 p.m. St. George Church Hall, 33 Whitfield St. Benefit event supporting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and The Jimmy Fund in memory of Sarah Elizabeth Montgomery. Features artwork by local artists, live painting demonstrations, a live auction, music by Take 3 Trio, wine and beer, and appetizers and desserts by Cilantro’s. Proceeds benefit BPDCN cancer research led by Dr. Andrew Lane. Tickets: $75. For info or tickets, contact 203-641-3590 or jomontgomeryemail@gmail.com, or visit charity.pledgeit.org/c/qccpub9403.

page 32

Isaac Toups’ Bacon Vinaigrette Dresses Up Grilled Vegetables

By Isaac Toups

Want to make your vegetables taste better and have your friends love you? Char the hell out of some on the grill and then toss them in a bacon vinaigrette, using this recipe from my cookbook “Chasing the Gator: Isaac Toups and the New Cajun Cooking.”

These are vegetables so unhealthy a Cajun might actually eat them.

You can do this dish year-round with whatever is in season: eggplant, zucchini, radishes, green beans, radicchio or others. If the vegetable is sliceable, slice it. If it’s broccoli or cauliflower, cut into quarter-size florets; if green beans, leave them whole.

Grilled Garden Vegetables With Bacon Vinaigrette

From the cookbook “Chasing the Gator,” by Isaac Toups and Jennifer V. Cole

Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

8 slices thick-cut bacon

5 cloves garlic, peeled

3 anchovy fillets

½ cup apple cider vinegar

½ cup canola oil

1 pound assorted vegetables, cut into ¼-inch slices

1½ teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the grill to high (about 500 F). Preheat the oven to 400 F.

Place the bacon slices on a rimmed baking sheet and cook in the oven for about 20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy. Remove the bacon and reserve the baking sheet with the rendered fat. Crumble the bacon and set aside. In a blender, combine the garlic, anchovies, and vinegar and put the lid on. Turn the blender on and slowly drizzle in the canola oil. This is never going to be a fully emulsified vinaigrette, so don’t fret if it looks like it’s breaking. Add the reserved bacon fat (about 1½ tablespoons, but if you have more from cooking your bacon, just toss it all in) and keep the blender buzzing for 5 seconds to combine all the ingredients. Keep warm. I like to put it in a metal container, like a mixing bowl, and keep it by the grill while I cook the vegetables. The vinaigrette doesn’t need to be hot, just not too cold because the bacon fat will congeal if you let it.

In a large bowl or on a rimmed baking sheet, toss the vegetables with the salt, pepper, pepper flakes, and olive oil. Place the vegetables on the hot grill in a single layer and cook on each side for about 2 minutes. They should char on the outside while keeping the crunch or snap of fresh crudités. They should be really crispy and charred, not all wimpy and overcooked; high heat is key here. Remove the vegetables from the grill and put in a nonreactive bowl.

Toss the grilled vegetables in the bacon vinaigrette. Top with the crumbled bacon. Serve.

Isaac Toups has four times been named a James Beard

Best Chef of the South semifinalist or finalist since opening Toups’ Meatery in New Orleans in 2012 with his wife, Amanda. He was named an Eater Young Gun of the South, Eater New Orleans’ Chef of the Year, and appears on “Top Chef.” He is a passionate advocate for the protection of America’s wetlands. Jennifer V. Cole spent nearly a decade at Southern Living magazine, where she served as deputy editor and wrote annual restaurant lists. Her writing appears in food and lifestyle publications. and Jennifer V. Cole. Copyright 2018 by Isaac Toups. Used with permission of Voracious, an imprint of Little, Brown and Company. New York, NY. All rights reserved.

Excerpted from “Chasing the Gator” by Isaac Toups

Voracious via AP

Denny Culbert/Voracious via AP

by Isaac Toups and Jennifer V. Cole.

Chasing the Gator

Grilled garden vegetables with bacon vinaigrette.

Voracious Special to LIving

Continued from page 31

Be On the Lookout: Native vs. Invasive Plants

: Noon to 1 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81, Killingworth. Kaleb of Wilder Gardens discusses native and invasive plants and their effects on local ecosystems. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

SUNDAY, JULY 12

Opening Reception for the 77th Annual Summer Juried Exhibition

: 3 to 5 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Presented by the Clinton Art Society. Free and open to the public. Refreshments served. For info, email casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

Outcasts & Innocents: The Musical World of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears

: 4 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Madison Lyric Stage presents a semi-staged celebration of the music of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears. Tickets: $40. For info or tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.

Jammin' by the Shore: Mid-Summer Beach Party

: 4 to 7 p.m. Madison Beach Hotel, 94 West Wharf Rd. Free beach party featuring live music by the Caribbean Vibes Steel Drum Band. Food and beverages available for purchase. For info or to register, visit eventvesta.com/ events/149044/t/tickets.

MONDAY, JULY 13

required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Open Mic Night

: 5:30 p.m. Henry on Main, 10 W. Main St., Clinton. Features poetry readings hosted by Clinton Poet Laureate Bethany Howard. Participants may read their own work or attend as audience members. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Pick Your Project Glass Class

: 6 p.m. RiverFire Glass, 500 Main St., Deep River. Create a fused-glass project. No experience necessary. For info or to register, email RiverFireGlass@gmail.com or visit riverfireglass.com.

Tuesday Trivia

: 6 to 7 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Teams compete in a Jeopardy-style trivia contest. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Make-Your-Own-Sundae Event

: 6 to 8 p.m. St.

Andrew's Episcopal Church, 1382 Middletown Ave., Northford. Features ice cream sundaes with a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings in celebration of the nation's 250th birthday. Cost: $5 per sundae. For info, call 203-710-7005.

Virtual Author Talk with Karin Slaughter

: 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 16

All About Axolotls

: 10:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Features a presentation on axolotls, including their history, care, and characteristics. Participants will have an opportunity to see a live axolotl from the Amphibian and Reptile Center. Recommended for ages 5 and older. For info or to register (required), call 860-5266039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Teen and Tween Pizza Scene

: 1 to 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features pizza, games, and activities for rising fifth- through 12thgrade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

The Hidden Cost of the American Dream and Healing Through Storytelling with Reyna Grande

: 2 p.m.

Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forget

Online. Author Reyna Grande discusses her memoir, . Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Tinker and Take-It-Apart

Learn How to Use iPhones and iPads All About Sharks

: 1 p.m. The Estuary, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook. Seminar presented by Raymond Rose covering security and passwords, iCloud, artificial intelligence, YouTube, the App Store, the Health app, Settings, and ways to reduce cable TV costs. Participants are encouraged to bring an iPhone or iPad. Free. Registration requested; walk-ins welcome. To register, contact 860-388-1611, ext. 211 or programs@yourestuary.org.

: 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features shark biologist Stephanie Shannon discussing her work and leading shark-themed activities for rising second- through sixthgrade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JULY 14

Junior Strings

Unearth a Story

: 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features fossil-themed stories and activities presented by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection for rising kindergarten through fourth-grade students. Sponsored by the Clinton Land Conservation Trust. Registration

We Are All Guilty Here The Secrets We Hide

Online. Books: and . Features a discussion with author Karin Slaughter about her North Falls series. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Small Towns and Big Secrets with Karin Slaughter

We Are All Guilty Here The Secrets We Hide

7 p.m. Online. Author Karin Slaughter discusses her North Falls series, including and . Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 15

: 4 to 5 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Hands-on engineering and problem-solving activities for ages 5 to 11. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Summer Nights @ APL: BubbleMania with Casey Carle

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a family program exploring giant bubbles, bubble art, and bubble science. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Library. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Shoreline Sailing Club Event

: 7 p.m. Old Elks Cottage, 142 Seaside Ave., Westbrook. For active singles 35 and older. Features a celebration of SAIL250 Boston and information on sailing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and other club activities. Guests welcome. For info, visit shorelinesailingclub.com.

Boys Group Imagination Station

: 3:15 to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features openended arts and crafts activities for rising kindergarten through fourth-grade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

The Magic of Jeff Horton

: 5:30 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St., Chester. Features a family magic show by Jeff Horton. Free. For info or to register (required), contact 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org.

Family Paint Night

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Led by YA Librarian Brian Story. Paint supplies and light refreshments provided. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 17

Cool-ology

: 3 to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features STEM experiments focused on American inventors for rising firstthrough fifth-grade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

The Other Side of Rio

: 5 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. Annual scholarship fundraiser celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Brazilian and American Youth Cultural Exchange (BRAYCE). Features presentations by BRAYCE students from Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian music, appetizers, drinks, and live and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit BRAYCE scholarships and cultural exchange programs. For info or tickets, visit brayce.org.

page 33

Exhibition Examines New Haven’s Fight for Freedom

Press

New Haven’s Unfinished Revolutions

, a new exhibition examining the city’s role in movements that have shaped and challenged the meaning of freedom throughout American history, is now on view at the New Haven Museum.

The exhibition opened July 1 with a reception and lecture by State Historian Andy Horowitz as the nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The exhibition explores moments when freedoms were expanded or restricted in New Haven, using historical artifacts, photographs, multimedia presentations, and interactive displays to examine the city’s place in the nation’s democratic journey.

Among the exhibition’s interactive features is Voices of the Unfinished Revolu-

Continued from page 32

tions, which presents first-person accounts recorded by actors from Collective Consciousness Theatre. The recordings draw from the experiences of soldiers and residents during the 1779 British raid on New Haven, petitions submitted by enslaved people citing their military service and natural rights, town records documenting the treatment of Loyalists, and other historical sources.

The exhibition begins with Native American sovereignty and self-governance before the founding of the United States and traces centuries of efforts to secure tribal sovereignty and land rights. It also explores labor history through oral histories of women union members active in the 1930s and educators involved in the 1975 teachers strike.

Original objects from the museum’s collection include George Henry Durrie’s painting of Judges Cave, where the regi-

cides hid after signing the death warrant of England’s King Charles I; a Revolutionary War cannon and powder horn; a fragment of a uniform worn by an American soldier imprisoned after the 1779 British raid; the portable dressing case of British officer Adjutant William Campbell; and a Fugio cent, the first official circulating coin of the United States, minted in New Haven by Abel Buell.

Floor-to-ceiling photographs throughout the gallery highlight events including a 1916 suffrage gathering outside the Winchester Repeating Arms Company and the 1969 “Free Our Sisters and Ourselves” demonstration organized by the Black Panther Party of Connecticut and N.E. Women’s Liberation. Additional sections examine the impact of urban renewal on the Hill neighborhood and New Haven’s continuing efforts to achieve educational equity.

“Ultimately, New Haven’s Unfinished Revolutions asks visitors to reflect on their own role in the ongoing question of what the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness means today,” New Haven Museum Executive Director Margaret Anne Tockarshewsky said. “By situating New Haven as a microcosm of the nation’s democratic journey, the project encourages audiences to consider how the humanities — history, ethics, and civic dialogue — can help us understand not only the past but our responsibilities in the present.”

The New Haven Museum is located at 114 Whitney Avenue. For information or to register for the opening reception, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhaven museum.org.

Tweens Magic: The Gathering :

: 5 to 6 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Features instruction and game play for the trading card game. Recommended for ages 9 and older. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Opening Night for A Midsummer Night’s Dream

7:30 p.m. Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, 297 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Madison Lyric Stage, led by Marc Deaton. Duration: Two hours with one intermission. Suitable for all audiences. The show runs through Sunday, July 26. Other showtimes available. For info and tickets, call 203-215-6329 or visit madisonlyricstage.org.

FRIDAY, JULY 17 THROUGH

SUNDAY, JULY 19

Guilford Art Center Craft Expo

: Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guilford Green, 79 Whitfield St. Outdoor show featuring more than 170 artists, food vendors, live music, and family activities. Admission: $11 adults; $10 seniors; free for ages 16 and under, members, and active military. For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

page 34

Photo by Joanna Steinberg

An immersive gallery explores New Haven's social and civil rights movements, including the 1969 "Free Our Sisters and Ourselves" demonstration organized by the Black Panther Party of Connecticut and N.E. Women's Liberation.

Artifacts from the New Haven Museum's collection anchor New Haven's Unfinished Revolutions, a new exhibition exploring the city's role in shaping the meaning of freedom throughout American history.

Release from the New Haven Museum

Continued from page 33

SATURDAY, JULY 18

Boat America Boating Safety Course:

8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Building, Cedar Island Marina, 34 Riverside Dr., Clinton. One-day NASBLAapproved boating safety course. Cost: $65 prepaid by Thursday before class; $70 day of class; $75 walk-in, space permitting. For info or to register, contact Mark Bennett at 860-304-2696 or m.a.bennett@sbcglobal.net

How-To: Needle Felting

: 9 a.m. to noon. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Carole Pleines leads an introduction to needle felting. Materials fee: $10. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Pokémon Club

: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features Pokémon card games, activities, and trading. Cards will be available for use during the program. For children ages 6 to 11. Free. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Shakey: An Evening with Neil Young… Almost

: 2 to 4 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features musician Briz performing a Neil Young tribute show, with narratives about the songs and the artist's career. Sponsored by the Friends of Blackstone Library. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

SUNDAY, JULY 19

Escape Alive Self-Defense Class

: 1 to 5 p.m. Old Saybrook Parks and Recreation Gymnasium, 308 Main St. Free self-defense training for women and girls ages 12 and older. Presented by Jane Doe No More in partnership with East Coast Training Systems and hosted by Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203-729-0245 or visit janedoenomore.org.

Shoreline Jazz Quartet: Celebrating the Music of Thelonious Monk and Bill Evans

: 2 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Features a performance by the Shoreline Jazz Quartet celebrating the music of Thelonious Monk and Bill Evans. For info or to register, call 203-488-8702.

MONDAY, JULY 20

Outdoor Fun: Grades 3 and 4

: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St., Old Saybrook. Outdoor program featuring park exploration, trail activities, games, and more. Registration required. For info, visit osyfs.org.

Art with Kristin

: 4 to 5:15 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will create a Statue of Liberty drawing. For rising second- through sixth-grade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JULY 21

Junior Strings Pick Your Project Glass Class

: 2 p.m. RiverFire Glass, 500 Main St., Deep River. Create a fused-glass project. No experience necessary. For info or to register, email RiverFireGlass@gmail.com or visit riverfireglass.com.

Tapping Into the Past: Tavern Life in Early Connecticut

: 6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Presented by the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History. Explores the role of taverns in early Connecticut communities. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22

Boys Group

The Importance of Connecticut to the Revolution

5:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Storyteller and journalist Mike Allen discusses key people and events in Connecticut during the American Revolution. Registration suggested. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Karaoke: America 250 Event

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a singalong of songs from . Light refreshments provided. Hosted by Brian Story. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

The Turtle: David Bushnell’s Revolutionary Vessel

7 p.m. Westbrook Town Hall, 866 Boston Post Rd. Features a presentation by Frederick J. Frese and Roy R. Manstan on David Bushnell’s submarine, the Turtle. Frese and Manstan built, launched, and tested a full-size working replica of the vessel and are co-authors of . A question-andanswer session will follow at the Turtle model displayed in Town Hall. Hosted by the Westbrook Historical Society. For info, contact 860-399-7473 or westbrookhistoricalsocietyct@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, JULY 23

Thrifting Thursdays Hamilton Hamilton Turtle: David Bushnell’s Revolutionary Vessel

: 9:30 a.m. to noon. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services, 322 Main St., Old Saybrook. Program for students entering grades 7 to 12 exploring local thrift shops and cafes. Registration required. For info, contact 860-510-5050 or jessica.wood@oldsaybrookct.gov, or visit osyfs.org.

: 10 to 11 a.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features stepby-step painting instruction for rising fourth- through seventh-grade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Painting With Carol Furbearers of Connecticut

: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. DEEP Master Wildlife Conservationist Julie Shaw discusses Connecticut wildlife and presents animal pelts. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Teen Crafternoon: Mending Workshop

: 3 to 4 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Participants will learn basic sewing and clothing repair techniques. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

The Wonders and Perils of Bird Migration

: 4:30 p.m. Westbrook Public Library, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Craig Repasz discusses bird migration, including migration routes, behaviors, challenges faced by migratory birds, and the importance of stopover sites. Repasz is co-chair of Lights Out Connecticut and president of the Friends of Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. Hosted by the Westbrook Garden Club. For info, email westbrookgardenclubct@yahoo.com.

Summer Nights @ APL: Playful Engineers: Chain Reactions and Creative Contraptions

: 5:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a hands-on workshop where participants build Rube Goldberg-style contraptions. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Library. Free. For info or to register (suggested), call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Summer Movie Nite

Craft and Board Game Night

: 6 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features crafts and board games for all ages. For info or to register, email SMehmet@clintonct.gov.

Pick Your Project Glass Class

: 6 p.m. RiverFire Glass, 500 Main St., Deep River. Create a fused-glass project. No experience necessary. For info or to register, email RiverFireGlass@gmail.com or visit riverfireglass.com.

A Career in Movies with Storyboard Artist Brick Mason

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a discussion on working in the film industry with storyboard artist Brick Mason, including storyboard samples and a video presentation comparing original storyboards with finished films. Free. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 x 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

See page 35

‘Walking Each Other Home’ Opens at Guilford Art Center

carry, and the relationships that influence their lives.

Guilford Art Center Gallery, 411 Church Street, will present

Walking Each Other Home: Exploring Where We Belong, and How We Find It

, an exhibition featuring work by 78 artists from Connecticut, the surrounding region, and beyond.

The exhibition, inspired by the Ram Dass quote, “We’re all just walking each other home,” will be on view from through Saturday, Aug. 1. A closing reception will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

The exhibition invites artists to reflect on the many ways people experience and define home. Home can be a physical place — a house, a landscape, or a community — but it also can be something created through relationships, memories, care, and shared experiences. Through a variety of artistic perspectives, the exhibition explores how a sense of belonging is shaped by the places people inhabit, the histories they

“I’ve always been drawn to Ram Dass’ reflection that ‘we’re all just walking each other home,’” said Ashley Seneco, education coordinator at Guilford Art Center. “While the quote speaks to our shared journey through life and the inevitability of its ending, what resonates most with me is the idea that none of us makes the journey alone. We accompany one another at every degree of interaction, shaping each other’s sense of belonging along the way.

“I wanted this exhibition to leave room for every interpretation of home: as a place, an identity, or a relationship. My hope is that these works remind us that while every artist’s definition of home is unique, the desire to belong is something we all share.”

Gallery admission is free. Summer hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

For information, visit Guilford ArtCenter.org.

Continued from page 34

SATURDAY, JULY 25

How-To: Quilling

9 a.m. to noon. Killingworth Library, 274 Route 81. Features instruction in the art of paper quilling. Materials fee: $5. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Wings N' Strings Country Bluegrass Festival

: 3 to

8 p.m. Guilford Town Green, Guilford. Features live music by The Skunks, The Rock Hearts, Phil Rosenthal, and Hazzard County, along with food vendors, a beer garden, and family activities. Admission is free. Rain date is July 26. For info, visit guilfordparkrec.com.

Essex Village Walking Tour

: 5 p.m. Foot of Main Street, in front of the Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St. Features a guided walking tour led by EHS guide Brien Riedell exploring the maritime history of 18th-century Potapaug, Essex's working waterfront, shipbuilding prominence, and development as a visitor destination. Suggested donation: $10 per person. Free for active Essex Historical Society members. For info or to register, call 860-767-0681 or visit essexhistory.org.

SUNDAY, JULY 26

Car Wash Fundraiser for Eagle Scout Project

: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Palumbo’s, 1099A Boston Post Road, Guilford. Benefits Austin LaFata’s Eagle Scout project to create a picnic area at the North Guilford Firehouse. For info or to volunteer, visit bit.ly/3OYY8dt.

Stamp, Coin, and Collectibles Show

: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. YMA Annex, 554 Woodward Ave., New Haven. Sponsored by the New Haven Philatelic Society. For info, visit nhps1914.com.

JULY 27 THROUGH JULY 31

Girls Enrichment Program

TUESDAY, JULY 28

Junior Strings

Tea and Talk

: 2 p.m. Lillian's Pergola, behind Pa's Place, 514 Whitfield St., Guilford. Seniors are invited for conversation and socializing with Shoreline Village CT members. In the event of rain, the gathering will be held inside Pa's Place. For info, call George at 203-747-5939 or email info@ShorelineVillageCT.org.

Ranger Russ’s Animal Friends

: 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton. Features an educational live-animal program presented by Meigs Point Nature Center for rising kindergarten through sixth-grade students. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29

Boys Group

To submit an event to the Living Calendar, send an email to news@shorepublishing.com. For more events, both local and farther afield, or to enter your event online, visit our website zip06.com. The deadline for submissions is noon, eight days prior to the publication date.

Press Release from the Guilford Art Center

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

Rosemary Serfilippi's Morning Scone

Horoscopes Crossword

For the week of July 2 - July 8

ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

There is nothing that you cannot handle this week, Aries. Expect to juggle a lot at the same time, but somehow you make it look easy. A calm demeanor is a big asset.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

This week will be fairly quiet for you, Taurus. You are likely to connect with a task and dig down deep until it is completed. If someone tries to persuade you to take a break, you likely won’t.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

Many forces are working together to provide insight, Gemini. Take a step back and consider all of the variables in play. The solution may be simpler than you can imagine.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, there is no time for daydreaming right now. You will be tasked with managing multiple projects in the days head. Remain focused.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

Are you getting pummeled by obstacles, Leo? It could be that you need to set aside more time to yourself to complete the tasks expected of you. You also may need to ask for help.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, an ability to communicate clearly is among your most notable assets. If you have thoughts about explaining your ideas to others, keep reinforcing your goals.

JULY 2

Lindsay Lohan, Actress (40)

JULY 3

Patrick Wilson, Actor (53)

JULY 4

Post Malone, Rapper (31)

JULY 5

Edie Falco, Actress (63)

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, your projects will take some time to set up. A patient approach will pay off as results begin to materialize. Your ability to multi-task will drive you forward.

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Life isn’t an individual sport, Scorpio. You don’t have to do everything alone. Interact with others as much as you can this week.

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, when a person has found his or her path, naturally the desire is to start walking down it. You are eager to get started on something that has been on your mind.

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, keep an open mind so you can discover new experiences. You don’t have to completely reinvent yourself, but make a concerted effort to be open to new ideas.

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

The horizon is clear and you have all of the information you need to navigate what life is throwing at you right now, Aquarius. Keep the faith that you are on the right path.

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, share your experiences and feelings with someone close to you. Let your feelings out and express your gratitude to the person who lends a listening ear.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JULY 6

Kevin Hart, Comic (47)

JULY 7

Jack Whitehall, Actor (38)

JULY 8

Maya Hawke, Actress (28)

CLUES ACROSS

1. __ chat

5. Statue near the Pyramids

11. A process to change the look

14. Herb

15. Think about excessively

18. Bass vocal part

19. Supreme Allied Cmdr. of NATO

21. A major division of geological time

23. New Zealand parrot

24. Cognitive contents

28. Lump of yarn

29. Atomic #109

30. Let go of

32. Indian title of respect

33. Whereabouts unknown

35. Electronic data processing

36. Drivers’ licenses count

39. Snakelike fishes

41. They precede C

42. Popular personal computers

44. Intermediate community stage in ecological succession

46. Wings

47. Indicates position

49. Pleasantly smooth or soft

52. Jeweled headdress

56. In slow tempo

58. __ Falls

60. Reassertions

62. Eras

63. Hyphen

CLUES DOWN

1. Corporate executive

2. A plant used for flavoring food

3. Opinion or belief

4. Sheep in their second year

5. Intensities of sound

6. Indicates support for

7. Expression of laughter

8. OJ trial judge

9. Pointed ends of pens

10. True bugs genus

12. Lawyers argue theirs

13. Body parts

16. Closes tightly

17. World Heritage site in Nigeria

20. Islamic calendar month

22. Commercial

25. “Westworld” actor Harris

26. They __

27. Religious guilds

29. Woman (French)

31. Parts per billion (abbr.)

34. Brew

36. Spiritual leader

37. Indigo bush

38. Burn with a hot liquid

40. Older citizen

43. Scad fish genus

45. Morning

48. Line passing through the center (abbr.)

50. Double S-shaped curve

51. Small, thin person

53. Older

54. Mars crater

55. Humanities

57. Word element meaning ear

58. To the __ degree

59. Residue

61. It cools your home

Word Search

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

DAY AT THE PARK WORD SEARCH

BENCHES BIKING COMMUNITY FITNESS FLOWERS GARDEN GRASS HIKING LEISURE NATURE

PARK PATHWAYS PICNIC PLAYGROUND RELAXATION

SOCIAL SPORTS SUNLIGHT SWINGS

TRAIL

TREES

WELLNESS

WILDLIFE

YOUTH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for June 25, 2026: REWARD

Word Search solution for June 25, 2026

Real Estate Transactions

: Rebecca Kieran to Joseph Zea and Margaret Staudter, $420,000 on June 8

: Estate of Sherri L. Fiordelisi and Gail Wright to Scott Haverl, $260,000 on June 11

: Robert Cullen to Mitchell Hall, $181,250 on June 8

Donna J. Angelo to Leslie Dumke, $352,000 on June 8 :

Michele Manas to Alexandria S. Fenton, $255,000 on June 10

: Rosa

Iaderosa to Hes Property Group, $382,000 on June 8

88 Grove Street to Flipside3 Investments LLC, $205,500 on June 10

: Philip F. Anderson

GUILFORD

: Joseph M.

Cohen to Edward Ricard and Kelsey Keeley, $225,000 on June 11

: Edith R.

Hartleb to Cassandra and Richard Miles, $235,000 on June 8

Buell Court

: Martin & Sonja

Gibbs Real Estate Trust and Sonja B. Gibbs to Jeffrey C. Harding, $536,000 on June 11

BEACH

: Christina Healey to Nancy J. Brault, $525,000 on June 8

49 River Road

: James Sopchak to Albert Perkins and Dianne Crawford, $450,000 on June 8 Old Harbor Village Unit 84G

DEEP RIVER

319 Main Street Unit 504

: Krista Bouregy to Suzanne Howard, $240,000 on June 10

EAST HAVEN

63 Meadow Street

: Michael G. and Denise N. Meliti to Kathy M. Salisbury

and Linda Cummings, $176,500 on June 10

123 Pleasant Avenue

: Stuart K. Horner to Anthony Goraeib, $370,000 on June 10

Shell Beach Unit C

: Jules & Suzanne Patry Real Estate Trust and Jules R. Patry to Peter and Annette Roding, $750,000 on June 11

421 Strong Street

: Giuseppe Bonesse to Mpq Properties LLC, $700,000 on June 11

ESSEX

: Estate of Lorraine Levitan and Kathleen Cosgrove to Thomas Kelly, $490,001 on June 11

: Jafco Holdings Ii LLC to Jules & Suzanne Patry Real Estate Trust and Jules R. Patry, $1,275,000 on June 8

: Estate of Valerie L. Soden and Johanne N. Soden to Carl P. Jeppesen and Barrett C. Hollo, $555,000 on June 9

: Paris M. Keena to Heather South Hedberg Real Estate Trust and Heather S. Hedberg, $1,225,000 on June 9 : Michael Frederick and Ashley M. Meloy to Della P. and Christopher R. Anderson, $620,000 on June 9

: Cornerstonecs LLC to Mark R. and Casey Ottersen, $720,000 on June 11 : Donita M. Higby to Savannah Messenger, $274,900 on June 11 : Estate of Wendy M. Ricker and John K. Doheny to Ks Development LLC, $400,000 on June 12 : James T Harris Real Estate Trust and Paul K. Sullivan to Jane P. and Frederick P. Andresen, $1,710,000 on June 11 : Stephanie Ayles to Sara Talisman and Judson Fifteen, $815,000 on June 10

Real Estate Transactions

NORTH BRANFORD

: Gabriel and Alisa M. Diglio to Wolfgang Keeney, $465,000 on June 11

: Nancy Seneco to Garred and Gina Grate, $540,000 on June 9

: Carol A. King to Anyssa Armstead, $555,000 on June 8

NORTH

: John Winn and Carol Bacon to Hk Luxury Inc, $225,000 on June 11

: Guy J. and Carol A. Paradise to Fac Holdings LLC, $255,000 on June 12

1603 Hartford Turnpike

: Estate of

Ercole Casella and Nicola Casella to Hao Feng and Lu Zheng, $395,000 on June 11

: Lisa B. Palmucci to Matthew Stofko, $385,000 on June 9

Old Orchard Road

: Anne H.

Sweeney to Kyle Bowrin and Katuska J. Imperial, $1,245,000 on June 12 24 Norway Road

: Mao Chin Liu to David Miu, $320,000 on June 5

: John C.

Odonoghue to Sabreena Saeed, $480,000 on June 4

: Yuet Ho Wu and Edward Wu to David and Laura Donle, $411,000 on June 9

: Anthony J. Golia to Nicholas Amodio, $489,000 on June 12

: Alex R. Hodges and Ting Yi to Mercy Kibe, $490,000 on June 4

OLD SAYBROOK

WESTBROOK

: Eric M. and Carol Ann Zima to Lisa C Trager Real Estate Trust and Lisa C. Trager, $2,353,000 on June 12

: Lisa C Trager Real Estate Trust and Lisa C. Trager to Npn Realty LLC, $1,433,000 on June 11

: Maret E. Sternhardt to Michael Fosque, $565,000 on June 12

: Robin K. Keating to William Totz and Karen Libeson, $365,000 on June 12

: Real estate transactions are published using publicly available records and are matters of public record. Listings are not removed in response to general privacy requests. Removal will only be considered in cases involving a documented and credible personal safety concern. Requests may be submitted to zip06@shore publishing.com