Harbor News 12-18-25

December 18, 2025

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Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook Vol. XXVIII Iss. 51

New Light Placed At Site of Fatal 2024 Old Saybrook Boat Crash

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

A new light is now functioning at the end of the breakwater off of Old Saybrook where a boat crash killed three people over Labor Day weekend of 2024. Proponents hope the new light will increase maritime safety in the area and serve as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the crash.

On Dec. 7 a mix of families, legislators, and representatives from the United States Coast Guard gathered in Old Saybrook as the light was switched on. Advocates hope better illumination near the breakwater will reduce serious boating accidents like the one that occurred in 2024.

The efforts to install the so-called solar spindle light were led by the families of the three victims who started “Light the Way,”

an initiative to boost water safety. Over the previous year, the organization had brought attention to the lack of lighting on the breakwater and the danger it poses to mariners.

Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna told The Harbor News, “Boater safety is important to everyone and, while we may not Mace Vitale has been teaching the be able to eliminate all boating accidents, any metallic arts at the Guilford Arts Center for about 20 years..............2 See New Light page 11

Sliding in Saybrook Kate Rowan, age 6, gets the lead on her mother Jackie Rowan as they sled down a snow-covered hill in Saybrook Acres during a winter snowfall on Dec. 14, in Old Saybrook. The storm brought 1-3 inches of snow to the area, marking the season's first accumulating snowfall for many shoreline towns before bitter cold moved in behind the system.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ Harbor News

The Chance to Develop The Hand girls’ ice hockey co-op team, which includes athletes from Westbrook and Old Saybrook, is focused on development and staying competitive this winter.................12

Christmas in the Philippines Living Editor Maria Caulfield shares her experience with celebrating the holidays overseas........................20

KEEP CALM

AND

SHARE THE JOY!

Happy Holidays

Red House, Deep River

2

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Learning About the Metallic Arts With Mace Vitale

By Aaron Rubin Staff Writer

Located just outside downtown, the Guilford Arts Center offers a variety of workshops for those who want to explore their creative side, from weaving to painting, to ceramics and sculpture. There is also an opportunity for crafters to get a bit more physical and noisy in their quest to create something from nothing, like a kitchen knife that cuts with precision or a beautiful hook for hanging a coat.

These metallic creations can be forged in the blacksmithing and bladesmithing classes at the arts center under the tutelage of Mace Vitale.

Mace has been teaching the metallic arts at the art center for about 20 years, a journey that began when he first learned her craft at the facility.

“I took my first blacksmithing class here,” Mace says. “That was my introduction to it.”

He was eventually approached

Person

of the Week by a former instructor at the arts center who asked if was interested in teaching a class himself.

This was before there was a specific space devoted to metallic arts like there is now, where things can get dusty, noisy, but thrilling, too.

Since then, Mace’s elevation of the program has been an ongoing process. He built up the space by bringing in equipment from his own workshop and raising funds over the years to acquire more equipment for the classes. He is still looking to bring in more equipment to expand the possibilities of creations and satisfy the artistic side of handy individuals like himself.

Beyond teaching, Mace had desired to work in a space where

craftsmanship meets creativity.

Fortunately, the universe appeared to be listening.

“I was at a point in my life where I was working for companies selling mortgages, and the company was closing, and I was going to look for a job. A friend of mine was helping me with a resume, and he said, ‘What would your dream job be?’ Without even thinking about it, I said, ‘I don’t know, working with metal, hammers and torches, something like that.’ And then, literally three days later, I picked up the [paper’s] wanted ads and all it said was ‘Hammer and torch guy wanted, phone number here in Guilford.’ I called the number and I got hired at Connectiut Coppersmiths here in town.”

Along with being the town blacksmith, Mace is also a member of the American Bladesmith Society and the president of the Connecticut Blacksmith Guild.

Members of such organizations

Aaron Rubin / The Harbor News

Mace Vitale is a seasoned craftsmen who teaches the art of the ham-

See Learning page 10 mer and anvil at Guilford Art Center.

Wishing You The Best This Holiday Season Essex Bank has proudly served the needs of individuals and families, as well as business, trust and investment clients since 1851.

Throughout the years, Essex Bank has never lost sight of our forefathers’ goal – a commitment to personal relationships.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers, directors, trustees, officers and staff who support our mission to continue to provide service and trust to our community.

Offices: Essex, 35 Plains Road, 860-767-2573 • Essex, 9 Main Street, 860-767-8238 Chester, 203 Middlesex Avenue, 860-526-0000 • Madison, 99 Durham Road, 203-318-8611 Old Lyme, 101 Halls Road, 860-434-1646 • Old Saybrook, 155 Main Street, 860-388-3543 Toll-Free 877-377-3922 • www.essex.bank Member FDIC

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COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Inside Sports A Christmas Tradition Ahoy! Check out Captain Morgan’s weekly fishing column...........................13

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Winter Basketball Camps Madison Hoop Dreams is holding a three-day basketball camp the week after Christmas............................................. 14

Living

Improve your hearing for the holidays!

A Must-See Show Goodspeed’s production of White Christmas is leaving people impressed with its final product.......... 23

Every few years, technology takes a significant leap forward. The Doctors of Audiology 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.

Arts and Events Check out the list of upcoming events happening all across the shoreline...... 21

Full Service Hospital Providing Excellent Pet Care Since 1976!

Trust your hearing to a Doctor of Audiology 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, Sterling, Connecticare, Cigna, Electric Boat, Pfizer, all current and retired State and Federal Employees and AARP.

Consultation and Professional Examination Expires on 12/31/25

Quote

of the week

“I feel that girls’ sports don’t get the recognition that boys’ sports do. The more that people recognize it, I think that is what the people should be doing.”

- Greg Thompson..............12

Preparing for Leadership The Old Saybrook winter sports captains recently attended the Shoreline Athletic Conference’s annual Captain’s Leadership Conference........................................... 14

Mixed Feelings Yale Rep’s production of Hedda Gabler leaves an underwhelming impression..................................................... 24

Index

Obituaries............................................ 5 Sports..................................................12 Fishing................................................13 Tides....................................................14 Classifieds..........................................15 Sudoku...............................................19

www.countyhearingandbalance.com Call any of our convenient offices to schedule your appointment.

Waterford 167 Parkway North 860-443-6944

Norwich 18 Oneco Street 860-886-6268

Groton 495 Route 184, Suite 208 860-445-7476

Old Saybrook 900 Boston Post Rd 860-388-0022

Madison 82 Bradley Rd 203-245-1950

Middletown 198 S. Main St 860-301-9984

Harbor News

(usps 021-276) Published weekly, 52 times per year by Shore Publishing, LLC 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320 Periodical postage paid Old Saybrook, CT 06475 Postmaster: Send address changes to Harbor News, 200 State Street, New London, CT 06320

Living..................................................20 Calendar.............................................21 Horoscopes.......................................28 Crossword Puzzle...........................28 Real Estate.........................................30

4

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Clinton Man Faces New Charges In Missing Girl Case Clinton, Westbrook, & Old Saybrook’s Hometown Newspaper Founded in 1998 Published by Shore Publishing, LLC ©2025 All Rights Reserved ISSN www.zip06.com • 203-245-1877

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Editorial Staff

Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Gabrielle Maljanian Sports Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Eric O’Connell Harbor News

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

A Clinton man now faces new charges, including sexual assault, related to an incident in which police say he accompanied a missing teen across state lines last summer. The man is due in court Dec. 16, and the new crimes he is charged with are alleged to have occurred at the home of a state representative who is his father.

State judicial records show that Christopher M. Aniskovich, 22, was arrested by the Western District Major Crimes unit on Oct. 23. He was charged with one count each of sexual assault in the second degree, risk of injury to a minor, tampering with physical evidence, and larceny in the fifth degree.

The first three charges are felonies, while the larceny charge is a misdemeanor. Police say the offenses took place between June 18 and 21 of this year.

Aniskovich is currently released from custody on a $150,000 bond.

Aniskovich was previously arrested by West Haven police in late June after being publicly identified in a widely shared social media post as the man last seen with a 15year-old girl who was reported missing on June 21. On June 24, the girl’s family announced she had been safely returned home. Shore Publishing’s policy is not to publish the names of reported victims in cases involving allegations of sexual assault. b

New Charges A copy of an arrest warrant obtained by The Harbor News after first filing an FOI request with the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection and then, with no results forthcoming, requesting records directly from the court system, which released them early this week, sheds light on the latest charges.

According to the warrant, Connecticut State Police were contacted after a representative from the social media company Snapchat alerted the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that a review of the missing girl’s account showed what appeared to be possible images of child molestation and child pornography that had been saved to the “memories” feature of the account.

A detective with the state police reviewed the files, which included two videos and one image. The files depicted a “pubescent female child” and “an adult male” engaged in various sex acts, according to the warrant.

The warrant details multiple ways that police linked Aniskovich to the images.

While the male’s face was not visible in the videos, the warrant notes that police compared a distinct tattoo seen on the hand of the male in the videos with one seen on Aniskovich’s hand when he was arrested in the summer. Also, police said the room shown in the videos matched Aniskovich’s room in his father’s house in Clinton that police searched.

In an interview with law enforcement officials in the summer, the reported victim said that she had had sexual contact with Aniskovich at his residence beginning in May 2025, according to police documents. She also identified herself and Aniskovich in the videos that were viewed by police and alleged that she took one of the videos while he took the other, police wrote. The reported victim further told police that Aniskovich took her phone and had not returned it yet out of a fear that police were going to inspect it when she got home, police said in their report.

An additional juvenile witness told police in an interview after the incident that the reported victim had told them that she and Aniskovich had been in a sexual relationship for “two to three months,” the warrant said.

Police said the juvenile witness also stated that they were suspicious of Aniskovich’s true age since he was able to drive and portrayed himself as having money despite using “kid slang” when around younger people. The witness told police that when they asked, the reported victim told them that Aniskovich was 17, the warrant said. His true age was actually 21 or 22 at the time of the incident, according to police.

After reviewing the videos, police served a search warrant at Aniskovich’s bedroom in his father’s house. Police obtained DNA from a vape pen found in the bedroom that had markings similar to a pen that reportedly was seen in one of the videos viewed by police, and results showed it was extremely likely that one of the four traces of DNA found on the pen belonged to the victim, the warrant stated.

Based on the investigation, police applied for a warrant for Aniskovich’s arrest on Oct. 20. On Oct. 23, he was arrested without incident, according to an arrest report.

Aniskovich is the son of State Rep. Chris Aniskovich, a Republican representing the 35th District who also is a Clinton Town Council member. The arrest warrant alleges that the sexual assault occurred in the basement bedroom at the elder See Clinton Man page 10

5

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Obituaries

Contacting Harbor News

Obituary

Ronald Durie Westbrook It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ronald Durie, who departed from this life on Oct. 7, 2025 at the age of 78.

Ron was born on Nov. 21, 1946, in Hartford to Robert and Eileen (Kennedy) Durie.

A native of West Hartford, Ron lived in Cromwell for many years before settling in Westbrook. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Linda; his children, Kristyn Zalota and her husband Maxim of Munich, Germany, and Brendan Durie and his wife Kristin of Seattle, WA; and his beloved grandchildren: Nikolai, Nadya, Marleigh, Hattie, and Desmond. He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Laurie and Patti, brothers-in-law, Roger and Alan; and many nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Conard High School in 1964, Ron went on to Fairfield University, graduating in 1968, and later received his MBA from the University of Connecticut in 1972. Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War (1969-1970), an experience and service that remained deeply important to him throughout his life.

Ron spent 45 years in healthcare accounting, working first with the State

of Connecticut, then Arthur Anderson, and finally Blum Shapiro in Hartford.

Ron incorporated his three "G's" into his daily life: God, Golf, and the Gym. A devout Catholic, he attended Sunday Mass at St. Mark's and weekday morning Mass at St. Mary's in Clinton.

He was an avid sports fan. He loved the New York Yankees and most of all, the UConn Huskies. Ron was always involved in Cromwell youth sports and was a founding member of the Cromwell Athletic Club.

Ron had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone he met. Whether it was his daily coffee stop, running errands around town, or cheering at local sports games, he made genuine friendships everywhere he went. His quick wit and sincere interest in others brought joy to everyone who knew him.

Ron was a good man who touched many lives with his kindness and humor. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20 at St. Mark's Church in Westbrook. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (cholangiocarcinoma.org) in honor of Vincent DiMauro, who holds a special place in the Durie family and is currently undergoing cancer treatment.

See Obituaries page 10

Need Help with Challenging Children?

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

Spectrum Holiday Show: The Art of Dreaming Spectrum Art Gallery, 61 Main Street, Centerbrook, hosts its holiday show, The Art of Dreaming through Saturday, Jan. 10. The gallery showcases representational and abstract art in all mediums—including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media—that explore the many dimensions of dreaming. Spectrum’s artisans store also offers fine crafts in wood, ceramic, pottery, glass, paper, fabric, jewelry, and more. In addition, the gallery has handmade ornaments in its six-foot holiday tree and seasonal items in all mediums. For more information, call 860-767-0742 or visit spectrumartgallery.org.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SPONSORED CONTENT: Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

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

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

6

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Scholarships for Connecticut Women The Connecticut Federation of Women’s Clubs announces two scholarships for Connecticut women pursuing advanced courses of study at institutions of higher learning. Awards are granted on the basis of future promise, scholastic ability, and financial need. The Dorothy E. Schoelzel memorial scholarship has a maximum award of $2,000. Candidates must have completed three or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher in the field of education.

The Phipps scholarship has a maximum award of $1,000. Candidates must have completed two or more years of undergraduate work in an accredited institution with a 3.0 average or higher toward a bachelor’s or post-graduate degree. Completed applications, including general and personal information, a financial statement, instructor/employer references, and an official transcript of at least the most recent two years of undergraduate or graduate work, must be received by Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. To download an application form, visit northfordnbwomensclubgfwc.org/ education. For more information, call Rose Lynch at 203-483-8395.

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You can help……

The need is great! In Connecticut River valley & shore towns little children will go cold this fall/winter without your help.

Just what is The Warm The Children program?

Warm The Children Shoreline is a fund of the Community Foundation of Middlesex County (a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization) which provides new winter clothing and footwear for our area’s neediest children.

How are needy families identified?

Youth & Family Service coordinators in Chester, Deep River, Essex, Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Clinton, East Haddam and Killingworth identify families and pass on contact information to Warm The Children coordinator who assigns each family to a volunteer shopper.

How will the children’s clothing be purchased?

Volunteer shoppers meet their assigned families at Walmart in Old Saybrook and assist in selecting clothing and footwear for each child. No money changes hands, Walmart bills Warm the Children Shoreline for all purchases. Children aged 4-18 have $100 to spend, children under 4 have $50 to spend on clothes.

How can I help?

Your donation of any amount is appreciated. Donate by mail or on-line.

On-line – donations can be made using a credit card at MiddlesexCountyCF.org, Click the Make a Donation button, type Warm The Children Shoreline and select Search. Donations are tax deductible.

By mail- Send your donation to: CFMC/Warm the Children, 49 Main St., Middletown CT 06457

Longtime Clinton Town Clerk Retires

By Eric O'Connell Staff Writer

Clinton Town Hall will look a little different now. Town Clerk Sharon Uricchio retired on Dec. 2 after 23 years, and some of her former coworkers spoke with the Harbor News to wish her well.

At a Town Council meeting on Nov. 19, Town Manager Michelle Benivegna announced that Uricchio had given notice that she would be retiring effective Dec. 2.

Speaking with The Harbor News, Uricchio said she made the decision to retire because she simply felt it was time for a change.

“I’d been thinking that it was time for a while. I’d done what I wanted to do and it’s time for someone new to take over,” Uricchio said. “Clinton is a great little town and I’m sure whoever does the job next will be great.”

Uricchio said she had no immediate plans for retirement and that she intends to focus on spending time with her family and enjoying the upcoming holidays.

“Then we’ll see what new adventures the new year brings,” Uricchio said.

In a 2019 Person of the Week profile in The Harbor News, Uricchio explained that her interest in town governance began when she worked in Essex 25 years ago.

“I started working in Essex town hall in 2000 found it interesting how all the boards intertwined,” she told The Harbor News then.

In 2002, she came to Clinton.

Reflecting on her time in Clinton, Uricchio spoke of how town clerks do a little bit of everything from issuing marriage licenses to keeping track of all the permanent records in town to helping tally election results.

However more so than any one particular event or task, when asked what her favorite memory of Clinton was, Uricchio pointed to interacting with the people.

“I liked being able to help people, and that’s what I tried to do.”

Uricchio mentioned that before her last day a resident came to the office to collect a death certificate for a family member. She was able to comfort the resident, and the office was surprised days later with a gift of chocolate in recognition for their professionalism.

“It always felt great when people showed us their appreciation for what we did,” Uricchio added.

Photo credit: Town Of Clinton

Former Clinton Town Clerk retired after 23 years.

Urrichio’s former colleagues at town hall told The Harbor News they would miss Uricchio and took time to share some fond memories.

Benivegna thanked Uricchio for her years of service to the town and for being a friendly face wherever she went.

“Sharon’s retirement marks the end of an incredible 23-year chapter of service to the Town of Clinton. Her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our residents have left a lasting impact on Town Hall and our community.

Sharon’s warm presence and her always festive, beautifully decorated office that so many residents enjoyed will be deeply missed. We are grateful for her years of loyal service and wish her all the best in this next chapter,” Benivegna said.

John O’Connell, a custodian at town hall and someone who considers Uricchio a close friend, said he was always impressed by how seriously Uricchio took her job.

“Sharon was a friend and someone who always had your back. She really took pride in her job keeping all the records straight, and she really took the time to do it right,” O’Connell said. “We’re going to have a hard time replacing her knowledge of everything.”

Following Uricchio’s departure, town clerk duties will be carried out by assistant clerk Lisa Barbour. The town website now contains an advertisement seeking applicants for a full-time clerk.

Westbrook Garden Club Welcomes New Members The Westbrook Garden Club has an open membership policy which welcomes anyone in neighboring towns to become members. The club offers public projects that involve and support conservation, gardening, horticulture, landscaping, and more. For more information, email westbrookgardenclubct@yahoo.com.

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COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

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COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Home for the Holidays: Who Can Resist Snickers?

Story by Carol Andrecs

Beautiful Snickers was passed from house to house, confused as to who would love and care for her the rest of her life. Through no fault of her own, this colorful tortoiseshell has endured too many upsetting changes and longs to feel safe and secure. Would you open your heart and home to Snickers and offer her permanent, unconditional love? To bring her home for the holidays, come meet this sweet and affectionate girl at our open house or apply to adopt her online at www.forgottenfelinesct.org.

Saturday, December 20th | 11am to 4pm

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

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

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10

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

Clinton Man Faces New Charges In Missing Girl Case Continued from page 4 Aniskovich’s house on Ben Merrill Road in Clinton. The 35th District includes Clinton, Killingworth, and Westbrook.

The elder Aniskovich did not reply to a message seeking a comment for this story from either himself or his son.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page in the summer when his son was first arrested in connection with the missing teen, Aniskovich Sr. said: “This is a sad and upsetting day. I am disappointed in Christopher’s actions but he understands he must now be held accountable for them.

Out of respect for the people involved and the process, I will have no further comment.” b

The original Incident The latest charges stem from an incident involving the younger Aniskovich, now 22, and the reported underage victim that occurred in June 2025.

West Haven Police began investigating on June 21 after a teen girl was reported missing by her family. Home security footage showed the girl leaving her home reportedly following an argument with her mother. The footage showed her leaving with two males, one of whom was identified by friends as Aniskovich.

Over the next two days, police were unable to reach the juvenile or Aniskovich, and calls to his phone went directly to voicemail.

Just before midnight on June 23, according to police documents, Aniskovich called West Haven police from a Floridabased number and claimed he was out of state for work. He denied being with the missing girl and said he did not know where she was, police added. However, investigators determined the number was generated through a spoofing app, according to documents, and police believe Aniskovich deliberately used the device to mislead authorities about his location.

Using digital data and social media logs, police say they were able to track Aniskovich and the juvenile to various Connecticut locations and later to New York City. While she was missing, the girl briefly contacted her family to say she was safe and denied being with Aniskovich, but declined to return home. On June 24, she agreed to be picked up by family members and was returned without incident.

On June 27, Aniskovich was arrested and charged with one count of first-degree custodial interference and one count of interfering with an officer. Judicial records show he has yet to enter a plea in that case and his next court date is Dec. 17.

Court records show he also has a previously scheduled appearance on Dec. 15 in connection with a separate May incident in which he was charged with permitting a minor to possess alcohol.

Obituaries Continued from page 5

Obituary

ment into her life. She was also a Aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Maureen Driscoll Holden Maureen spent many years working Clinton with her brothers at the family printing business, Phoenix Press Inc. After retiring, she kept herself busy — and Maureen (Driscoll) Holden passed away surrounded by her family, leaving social — by working part-time at Stop & Shop, where she quickly became behind a life full of energy, humor, and known for her friendly conversations memorable moments. and ability to make almost anyone She was the laugh. Whether meeting someone new beloved wife of the or catching up with an old friend, Maulate Charles Michael reen had a natural way of turning Holden. Born to Mareveryday moments into enjoyable ones. garet Marinan, who She enjoyed traveling, especially her passed when Mauquick trips to Ireland to see her favorite reen was an infant, group, Celtic Woman. More than anyshe was lovingly thing, Maureen valued the time she raised by Frances M. spent with her family.

(Daley) Driscoll and Maureen was known for her sassy her father Joseph Driscoll, all of whom personality, sharp wit, and lively spirit. predeceased her. She was also predeShe spoke her mind, loved a laugh, and ceased by her brother Kevin Driscoll, found joy in the people around her. Her whose wife Gabriella remains a treaspark, humor, and ability to bring life to sured part of the family.

Maureen is survived by her brothers, any room will be missed, but fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Brian Driscoll (Patricia) and Tony Calling hours were on Wednesday, Jasaitis (Carol); and her sister-in-law Dec. 10, at the Swan Funeral Home. A Mary Beth Fanning (Edward). She Mass of Christian Burial was at St. leaves her children, Stacey Ann Mary Church of the Visitation in ClinInnamorato (Joseph) and Michael Holden (Michelle), who meant the world ton. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery Clinto her. And nothing delighted Maureen ton. Memorial donations may be made to: American Cancer Society. more than her grandchildren, Sierra, Abbey, Alexis, and Jaxon, who brought www.carncer.org constant laughter, stories, and exciteSee Obituaries page 11

Learning About the Metallic Arts With Mace Vitale Continued from page 2 recognize the artistic aspect of knife-making that give them a gleaming beauty.

“The level of craftsmanship and artistry that’s found in this line of work is absolutely mind boggling,” Mace says. “I’ve been trying, on my end, to try to bring knives as art to people, because they can be very artistic. There’s something primordial and powerful about a knife and holding a knife.”

‘Primordial’ is the key word in the ancient craft of blacksmithing and blademithing tied to narratives across time, from the Ancient Greeks and Romans, to Medieval times, and the American Old West.

In the blacksmithing classes, beginning crafters will typically start with making nails and work their way to making objects like knives and swords. Under Mace’s instruction, hunks of metal will be

turned into various objects like knives and hatchets, skulls and faces, and war hammers.

In these workshops, students will learn not just how to physically make these objects, but also the chemistry that makes them beautiful to look at. Both of these aspects often need to connect in order to have a usable object.

“That’s really the important part of it,” says Mace. “That’s how I approach my work: I make it a tool first, and then aesthetically pleasing and pretty after that.

Because if it doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to, then it’s just a wedge-shaped piece of metal.”

The feeling of holding a well-crafted knife in one’s hands was part of the draw when Mace became interested in antique American Bowie knives.

“You might look through a book and see something and think, ‘Well, that’s an interesting piece.’ Then you make it and

once it’s made and you’re as close to the dimensions as you think you can get, and then you have it in your hand- Yeah, now I understand it!.”

To ease people into the art form, beginner classes are offered to teens and adults.

From there, students can choose classes that focus on knifemaking, hacksaw making, and cooking tools. On the latter, Mace says the process of making metal ladles and spatulas reveals a different feeling than purchasing one at a big retail store.

“It’s more rewarding and it probably works a lot better, too,” he says.

There are other classes that can help students really hone in on the technique that goes into beautifully crafted metallic arts, such as a certification class for the Artists and Blacksmiths Association of North America.

“They’re designed for you to get your techniques down, your elements that you’re creating, whether it’s a square

taper, round taper, particular shape item … you’re learning how to assemble things.

I’m hoping it’s going to take off a little bit more.”

While blacksmithing and bladesmithing may seem intimidating at first, Mace is there to create a fun environment where safety and comfortability around heavy equipment is guaranteed for all people.

“I do get people coming in thinking that it’s this big guy swinging a hammer, but some of the best blacksmiths I know are not big, old burly men. It’s about finesse and understanding the mechanics of it.

You can move a lot of metal with a small hammer if you do it right. Anybody can do it. You can take a piece of nothing - just a chunk of garbage on the shop floor and turn it into something beautiful.”

Details on the various blacksmithing classes at Guilford Art Center can be found at https://guilfordartcenter.org/artclass/blacksmithing-classes/.

11

COMMUNITY NEWS • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Obituaries

New Light Placed At Site of Fatal Crash

Continued from page 10

Obituary

national news and read daily.

Her nurturing spirit was always preKatherine Berko sent in her family's lives, going so far as Old Saybrook to sit outside the fence at her grandson's high school graduation during COVID due to ticket limits. After following her Katherine P. Berko, 83, of Pawleys Island, SC, formerly of the Connecticut son's family South, Kathy settled into the Tradition community where she Shoreline, passed away on Oct. 22, enjoyed participating in social activities 2025. Kathy was a with her "sorority girls." remarkable woman Left to cherish Kathy's memory are and cherished her her son Kenneth Berko (Leigh Ann); role as matriarch of her beloved grandsons, Cole and Ethan our family. She was Berko; nieces, Jessica, Annie and surrounded by her Amanda Pilcher; nephew Jim Pilcher; family and friends in brother Lawrence Pilcher (Laurie); and her home at the time sister--in-law Barbara Pilcher. of her passing. Kathy A memorial service was held on Nov. was born on Oct. 7, 22, 2025, at the Tradition Community 1942, in Salem, MA Club House in Pawleys Island, SC. In to the late Colman H. Pilcher and lieu of flowers the family would like you Joann Whigham Pilcher. Kathy was preceded in death by her husband John to consider donating in Kathy's name to NPR https://www.npr.org/donaJ. Berko; and brother Edward S. "Ted" tions/support.

Pilcher II. No services are scheduled currently.

Kathy graduated from the University of Connecticut with an education degree To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online and was a Home Economics teacher before transitioning into real estate. She guestbook, visit www.burroughsfh.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremawas a vocal supporter of the tion Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells arts/theater and volunteered for many Inlet is assisting the family with years at The Kate in Old Saybrook. arrangements.

Kathy was an avid follower of the

LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given that there will be a caucus of all enrolled Republicans electors of the Town of Clinton on January 7 2026 at 7 Pm at the Clinton Town Hall,54 East Main St Clinton CT in the Green Room to endorse Candidates for the Republican Town Committee.

Legal Notice of Decision Town of Clinton – Planning and Zoning Commission The Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission held a Regular Monthly Meeting in the Town Hall Green Conference Room on Monday, December 8, 2025 and rendered the following decisions: PZC-25-21 Special Exception for a restaurant, pursuant to Section 27.2.32(b) of the Clinton Zoning Regulations, 21 East Main Street, Map 56, Block 60, Lot 8, Zone B-3. Applicant: Michael P. Harkin, Harkin Engineering, LLC. Approved with conditions.

PZC-25-25 Modification to permit #94-366 to replace the pedestrian bridge, 20 Killingworth Turnpike, Clinton Premium Outlets, Map 43, Block 24, Lot 1, Zone B-1. Applicant: Katie Leise, Kimley-Horn Engineering.

Approved with conditions.

PZC-25-16 Text Amendment, Section 3, addition to Section 12, amend Section 27 and modify Section 29 of the Clinton Planning and Zoning Regulations to allow residential adaptive re-use to existing structures for the purpose of multiple dwelling units in the B2, B3 and B4 zones. Applicant: Matthew Williams, Williams Architects. Denied.

A full record of this decision is on the Town website. Any party aggrieved by this decision may appeal to the Superior Court, Middlesex County within fifteen days of the publication of this notice.

Dated at Clinton, Connecticut on this 9th day of December 2025. Clinton Planning and Zoning Commission Michael Rossi, Chairman

Continued from page 1 steps we can take towards that goal is a good thing.”

The families also helped spur a change to state law which now links motor vehicle DUIs to boating licenses. In October, a new law went into effect that states that if you’re convicted of boating under the influence or driving under the influence, both licenses will be suspended.

The changes to the breakwater lighting and law stem from a tragedy that occurred on the evening of Sept. 2, 2024, when a boat carrying nine people crashed into the breakwater. The crash claimed the lives of Christopher Hallahan, 34, of Westbrook, Ian Duchemin, 25, of Oakdale, and Ryan Britagna, 24, of Waterford. Six others were

injured in the accident.

After an investigation, police charged Clayton Hackling, 27, of Lyme with a slew of charges including three counts of manslaughter in the second degree, reckless boating, and operating a boat while under the influence. Police say Hacking had double the legal blood alcohol level in his system than is legally permissible, and he was speeding in a “no wake zone” prior to the crash, they said.

At the time of the boat crash, Hackling also had a pending DUI from a March 2024 arrest where police say he was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.

He is due in court on Jan. 20, 2026, for hearings in both cases.

The Season of Books is Back!

The Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, is hosting its annual Season of Books from Monday, Dec. 1, through Wednesday, Dec. 31. Patrons can borrow a stack of wrapped books and open a new bedtime story each night.

Wrapped books are borrowed from the library and therefore will need to be returned at the end of the loan period. Participants must have an active library card. The Season of Books program is co-sponsored by Old Saybrook Early Childhood Council.

The program is free and open to all with a library card. Limit one per family. For more information, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

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12

HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025 • SPORTS

Sports

Harbor News Valley Courier Thursday, December 18, 2025

Hand Girls’ Ice Hockey Co-op Embraces Development and Competition

By Zachary Halas Special to Harbor News

The Daniel Hand girls’ ice hockey co-op team is taking charge and heading into the current season with a lot of optimism and excitement. After a campaign last year that saw the squad loaded with younger, more inexperienced talent, the athletes are ready to make a mark on the ice this winter.

Last year was considered a rebuilding year for the Tigers, which are made up of students from Hand, Branford, H-K, Cromwell, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and Valley Regional High School, due to the number of seniors who graduated. The focus was on assessing the roster and building a solid foundation for the future. This winter, Head Coach Greg Thompson and the Tigers are looking to develop the younger talent on the club with the assistance of the experienced senior captains, who are there to help acclimate the new players to the team’s overall play style and philosophy.

“They are excited,” Thompson said. “We got four to five freshmen that seem to be kinda jibing.

They are excited, they are very excited, they think this year is going to be very competitive, and they want to produce. Last year, we took a big hit and lost a lot of seniors, a bunch of girls went to prep school, so it was kinda like a rebuilding year. They see that the rebuilding from last year is gonna go into this year. We have four seniors, and I think next year, we are having about the same amount, four to five freshmen coming in next year.”

Hand has six players from last year who are returning to the program, including four seniors who are captains. Thompson highlighted seniors Brooke Ouel-

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Chloe Monaghan will be relied on as a strong and experienced leader this winter to help mentor the underclassmen on the Hand girls' ice hockey co-op squad.

lette (Westbrook), Daniella Spaniotis (Cromwell), and Maggie DiNapoli (H-K) who will be taking on expanded defensive roles during the season. Underclassmen Olivia Albino (Hand) and Savannah Johnson (Branford) are expected to make a large impact this season, with Johnson being one of last season’s top scorers alongside fellow underclassman Ana Milne (Branford).

Ice leadership

DiNapoli, Chloe Monaghan (Hand), Ouellette, and Spaniotis will be serving as the squad stewards this winter. They will all be expected to step up into strong leadership roles on and off the ice.

With the team consisting of a large number of underclassmen and a handful of experienced seniors, one of the main goals the Tigers are striving for is to develop cohesion among the athletes and instill a winning mindset into the less experienced hockey players.

“One thing with the hockey is that they all kinda know each other,” Thompson said. “If they haven’t played together in their programs, they have played against each other, or even during school, everyone has been kinda bonding with everyone, you know, even during practice, some of the other seniors try to get the freshmen and sophomores to try and buy into how we kinda play.”

One of the things Thompson emphasized is the idea of freshmen stepping up into roles this winter that have typically been unfamiliar to them. Having new players thrusted into unfamiliar positions will be critical for the squad’s overall development, as well as that of each individual athlete. Additionally, it will help each player to gain more knowledge of the overall high school game. If everyone is constantly learning and developing, Thompson will see that as a big win for his club.

“I would say just to have everyone be able to play any position,

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/Harbor News

Daniella Spaniotis is serving as a captain this year for a Hand girls' ice hockey co-op team looking to do damage on the ice.

and in any circumstance. If a defender can play a wing, or center, or anything, that is success right there,” explained Thompson. “Also develop a hockey sense - hockey sense is huge. That’s our main goal, as long as they are producing, having fun, and being good kids. They are terrific to coach, and I really enjoy it. We don’t have any drama really.”

The Tigers’ first game this season was at Guilford on Dec. 9, and Hand lost 4-3 in overtime. Then, on Dec. 13, the team hit the road to Avon and took a tight 2-1 loss.

Despite falling short in the first two contests, there are still positives to take away. Hand’s first two goals of the campaign were scored by freshmen, who achieved their first goals of their high school hockey careers.

“That game showed what we are looking to do this season,” Thompson said.

As Thompson looks ahead to the rest of the winter, he and the Tigers are looking forward to some competitive Southern Con-

necticut Conference (SCC) matches, including against the likes of Hamden.

“We always look forward to everybody in our SCC competition,” said Thompson. “We have Hamdem coming up, we have West Haven/Sacred Heart. They are always competitive - we either beat them or lose, and if we do lose, it is not by much. We play Hamden on Tuesday, so we are looking forward to that.”

Thompson emphasized how the games are always competitive and provide great learning opportunities for the team, and the community showing support is vital to the group’s overall success.

“All the girls enjoy having a big crowd. That is a part of high school sports, support of classmates and parents. Just fill the stands,” Thompson said. “I feel that girls’ sports don’t get the recognition that boys’ sports do.

The more that people recognize it, I think that is what the people should be doing.”

SPORTS • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

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Feast of the Seven Fishes Christmas Eve had settled gently over the little coastal town, where the smell of the sea always lingered—briny, honest, and impossible to ignore. But tonight, it mingled with the aroma of frying smelts, simmering tomato sauce, pine boughs, and the faint curl of incense drifting from the corner table where Nonna’s old brass censer still swung on special holidays.

Inside the Captain’s cottage—half house, half museum of fishing adventures—the annual Feast of the Seven Fishes was underway. The tradition, rooted in centuries-old Italian Catholic observance, was meant to honor the vigil before Christmas with abstinence from meat, a symbolic purification before the joy of the Nativity. In practice, however, it had evolved into a kind of glorious saltwater marathon: seven varieties of seafood and as many stories (embellished or otherwise) as could be squeezed between bites.

This year marked the 47th Feast hosted

by Captain Jacopo “Hook” Mancini and his mate of equally long tenure, the ever-loyal and ever-grumbling Lori “Seafox” Mancini.

They had been at each other’s side longer than most marriages lasted, and both insisted they were the “real” captain depending on who was within earshot.

The living room glowed with twinkling lights. A small nativity scene rested on a mantle cluttered with seashells, faded photos of enormous fish, and one particularly battered buoy that apparently saved the Captain’s life at least twice. Bing Crosby crooned softly from an old radio, occasionally interrupted by the Captain shouting, “Seafox, turn it up, I can’t hear the man hollering!”

The table - a cathedral of seafood sported a lace tablecloth (protected by at least three layers of plastic just in case) sagged under the weight of dishes. Baccalà was prepared two ways because Aunt Sophia refused to eat it fried and Uncle Carlo refused to eat it stewed. Calamari rings were so tender they nearly slid off the plate by themselves. Shrimp scampi, glistening in butter and garlic, sent the family dog into a trance. The display also included Zuppa di pesce brimming with mussels, clams, and hunks of white fish, a dish the Captain swore he caught this morning in Long Island Sound - despite the obvious fact he hadn’t left the house since Tuesday. Anchovy garlic knots were also included, guaranteed to keep vampires away until at least Easter. Broiled lobster tails, courtesy of the Captain and Seafox, who bickered about who got the last good deal at the dock, were part of the

Fishing report CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

variety of dishes. And the seventh fish—the wild card every year—turned out to be a massive platter of stuffed flounder, its belly packed tighter than Cousin Joey’s belt buckle after dinner.

Wine—red, white, and something homemade that probably wasn’t entirely legal—flowed freely. A few beers, some limoncello, a splash of anisette were also consumed. It was a religious evening, yes, but no one ever accused the Mancinis of under-celebrating the miracle of community.

There was a little history and a lot of spirit. Before anyone lifted a fork, the Captain cleared his throat. This meant he was about to attempt something heartfelt, which always caused a mix of fear and admiration around the table.

He retold—as he did every year—the origins of the feast: the vigil fast, the symbolism of the number seven, the long tradition of gathering to wait for the arrival of something holy and hopeful.

Then he added his own yearly theological interpretation: “See, the Lord gave us fish so we’d have something to talk about and something to cook. And most importantly, we had something to argue about—right, Lori?”

Lori raised her glass, “Amen.”

And then there was the humor and the heart of it all. As the night wore on, stories grew taller. The mate insisted she once saw a flounder wink at her. The Captain claimed he’d been attacked by a rogue squid. Nonna protested, saying the only squid that ever attacked anyone was in her frying pan.

The younger kids made ornaments out of scallop shells. The older kids wandered in and out, snagging shrimp when they thought no one was watching (everyone was watching). Laughter rose and fell like waves against the jetty. Even the incense—smoldering in the corner—seemed to approve, sending up curls of scented smoke toward the ceiling like whispered prayers.

It was a Christmas Eve done right. As midnight approached, someone put on a soft recording of Tu Scendi dalle Stelle.

Candles flickered. The sea wind tapped lightly at the windows, as if joining in. The Captain stood, lifting his glass once more.

Photo illustration by Captain Morgan

Here is a little twist on the Feast of Seven Fishes as we delve into its significance, tradition, and array of foods mixed with a touch of humor to light up Christmas.

“To the old traditions. To the new memories. To friends who are family, and family who are—let’s face it—not always easy, but always ours,” said the Captain. “And to fish! The one thing we all agree we can’t live without.”

Lori muttered, “Speak for yourself, I could live without anchovies,” causing the room to roar.

And so they celebrated—faith, food, family, the sea, the season. A night where the line between sacred and silly blurred beautifully, as it always should on Christmas Eve - especially when reaching a traditional finale like, “Oh aye, Happy Anniversary, my Seafox!”

She giggled, “Back at ya, my Captain.” b

On The Water Following a cold frontal passage, an associated low pressure deepened while tracking up into the Canadian Maritimes.

High pressure then built in from the west.

As the high weakened and shifted offshore, a weak clipper low approached the area. It then passed to the north, sending another cold front through the area. A frigid arctic blast dragged pre-dawn air temperatures into the teens and single digits moderating to a low of 29 degrees and high of 49 degrees during the day, as mostly a mix of

sun and clouds interspersed with some rain made up the weather schedule. Small craft advisories battered Long Island Sound as seas reached two to five feet cranked up by gusty north/westerly winds as water temperatures dipped to 39 degrees.

Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and International fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.

For last minute holiday gifts and all things fishy, including the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, 2026 licenses/permits, and much more, swing by the shop located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, or call 203-245-8665 for updated shopping/winter hours. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, and promoter of the Daiwa Tournament Program, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.

Tight Lines, Captain Morgan captainmorganusa@hotmail.com captainmorgan-fish.blogspot.com X (formerly twitter) @captmorgan_usa

14

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • SPORTS

Schedules MORGAN b

b

Friday, Dec. 19: vs. Valley Regional at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23: vs. North Branford at 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Guilford at 9 a.m.

Boys’ Basketball

Wrestling b

Gymnastics

b

Girls’ Basketball Friday, Dec. 19: at Valley Regional at 7 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 22: at North Branford at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23: at Valley Regional w/ Stonington at 2 p.m.

b

Boys’ Hockey Saturday, Dec. 20: vs. Woodstock Academy at 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23: vs. Suffield, Granby, Windsor Locks at 1:30 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Old Saybrook Public Schools

Old Saybrook's winter sports captains recently participated in the Shoreline Athletic Conference's annual Captain's Leadership Conference held at H-K High School.

OLD SAYBROOK b

b

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Norwich Tech at 1 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 22: at Westbrook at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Watertown-Pomperaug-Holy Cross at 7:30 p.m.

b

b

Monday, Dec. 22: vs. Westbrook at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23: at Valley Regional w/ Stonington at 2 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Basketball

Gymnastics

WESTBROOK b

b

Monday, Dec. 22: vs. Old Saybrook at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Waterford at 10 a.m.

b

b

Saturday, Dec. 20: at Hale Ray at 3:30 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 22: at Old Saybrook at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 23: at Valley Regional w/ Stonington at 2 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball

Wrestling Gymnastics

Old Saybrook Winter Captains Participate in Leadership Conference

By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor

As the winter sports begin their seasons, Old Saybrook is primed and ready with strong captains at the helm. On Dec. 8, all of the school’s winter sports captains participated in the Shoreline Athletic Conference’s (SLC’s) annual Captain’s Leader-

Madison Hoop Dreams Winter Basketball Camp

By Gabby Maljanian Sports Editor

Side Show: In Concert Brief Cameo Productions announces its 2026 production, Side Show: In Concert, to be held Friday, Jan. 16, and Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. at the Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street. Sponsorship packages include reserved seated ticketing and other perks. General admission tickets cost $30. For more information or tickets, visit briefcameoproductions.com.

HIGH

Tides

WESTBROOK Dec. 18 to Dec. 24

Day 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

A.M. 9:28 10:08 10:46 11:25 12:38 1:20

P.M. 10:01 10:40 11:19 11:58 12:05 12:46 1:30

ship Conference held at H-K High School.

The conference focused on developing leadership, sportsmanship, communication, and team culture. The conference involves collaboration with the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) to promote initiatives like “SPORT” (Self, Pride, Others, Responsibility, Team) for a positive environment.

On Monday, Dec. 29, Tuesday, Dec. 30, and Wednesday, Dec. 31, Madison Hoop Dreams (MHD) will offer three days of basketball camp. Each day features skill development, competition, and fun at H-K Middle School (451 Route 81).

The camp is for players in grades 3 to 8 and is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Players are encouraged to register early to ensure a spot. The limit is 90 campers, and MHD will draw from over 15 towns. MHD plans to have three leagues to provide ageappropriate competition, and all of the programs are co-ed.

Each day starts with 45 minutes of skill development. Then, campers will have fun participating in competitive basketball games for the remainder of the day. During the games, the coaches give instruction to help each player improve their

knowledge and understanding of the game. This is an excellent opportunity for all players to improve their skills and confidence for the basketball season.

The cost is $60/day for the six-hour camp. However, teams are encouraged to attend together. If there are three or four teammates attending, MHD offers a discounted price of $55/player each day. For five or more teammates, the cost is $50/day. One of the parents should text Coach Bill Barker with the names of the teammates attending (203-494-6905). If possible, the program will have teammates on the same team. However, trades may be necessary to balance the competition.

For more information and to register, please go to www.madisonhoop dreams.com. If you have any questions, please call or text Barker at 203-494-6905, or email him at wab6933@gmail.com.

Legals

DECEMBER 18, 2025

Legals

HARBOR NEWS • CLASSIFIEDS • 15

Employment

Announcements Instructions

Instructions

Marine/ Boats

Marine/ Boats

Employment Services

Automotive Financial

a d AD dea d l i n e : mFRIDAY o n d a yATa4 t PM 10 am DEADLINE: Animals

or Call 1-800-582-8296 Merchandise Merchandise

Pets PlaCe and your liner ad online at Legals

Service Directory and Classified Displayand/or Ads: 860.701.4412 Service Directory and Classified Display Ads: 860-701-4200 Email classifiedads@theday.com Go to Zip06.com, select your town and click on classifieds or call weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Shore Publishing reserves the right to reject any advertisement. Shore Publishing is not responsible for the content of any ad or Business consequences of any misprinted ads. Shore Publishing will rerun any misprinted classified ad. no cash refunds are available.

Real Estate Directory

Instructions

­Financial/ Accounting

Automotive

Employment

­Automobiles

­Driver

2005 PT CRUISER Mileage: 66,300 | Auto trans $4000 860-767-6514 —

M&J BUS INC School van drivers & monitors needed in the Old Saybrook & Waterford areas.

Call Marie: 860-388-6782

Animals and Pets ­Wanted Automotive

JUNK CARS WANTED Title or No Title CA$H PAID ON SPOT 203-907-7766 —

Business

Directory place your classified online

www.zip06.com

Employment Services ­General Help SHOP CLEAN UP Local diesel repair shop is looking for a reliable shop clean up person. FT/PT Shoreline Diesel 860-664-4652

search &

HOME HEALTH AIDE Looking for Live-In Job to

The Town of Westbrook is seeking applicants for a full-time Union position (30 hours per week, $22.42 to $31.05 per hour) Assistant Tax Collector.

Boats

This position requires a thorough working knowledge of various computer programs: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, QDS tax collector and DMV software. Prior experience in a municipal tax collector’s office is preferred but not necessary. The ability to learn computer programs will be required. Provides assistance to the public in person, email and phone. Ability to work independently with attention to detail.

Minimum Qualifications Required: Graduation from high school plus specialized training and 9-12 months experience in general office work or equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

A full job description is available in the First Selectman’s Office and on the Town’s website. The posting is open until filled.

Please send cover letter and resume (marked confidential) to: John Hall, III, First Selectman Mulvey Municipal Center 866 Boston Post Road Westbrook, CT 06498 jhall@westbrookct.us

place

PROMOTE YOUR SERVICE OR BUSINESS To The Entire Shoreline!

Call 860-701-4412

online at www.zip06.com

Employment

Legals Brilliant Basement BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

Waterproofing, LLC

SM

Brilliant Basement Basement Waterproofing Services Employment Waterproofing, LLC

Services 50 Years combined experience.

SM

Egress Windows, Repair, Sump Pumps, Instructions BasementFoundation Waterproofing Services Pumps Eliminated in most homes.

50 Years combined experience.

Crawl Gravity Drains, Landscaping EgressSpaces, Windows, Foundation Repair, SumpDrainage, Pumps, Gutter Downspout Drains • Mold Remediation Financial Pumps Eliminated in most homes.

Crawl Spaces, Gravity Drains, Landscaping Drainage, Marine/ FREEtes • Mold Boats Don't justRemediation be smart, stimaDownspout Drains EGutter be brilliant!

FREEtes Don't just be smart, stima ELegals be brilliant!

www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com HIC. 0653192 • CALL US Merchandise

860-598-8091 www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com Instructions 860-598-8091 HIC. 0653192 • CALL US

Real Estate

­Employment Wanted

JOB OPENING TOWN OF WESTBROOK ASSISTANT TAX COLLECTOR

Financial

classified ads

­Financial/ Accounting

­Wanted to Buy

take care of the elderly.

I have 19yrs exp., Excellent Marine/ Ref’s. 203-815-2690 —

PROMOTE YOUR SERVICE OR BUSINESS

­Clothing OLD CLOTHES IN THE ATTIC OR EXTRA CLOSET? Real Estate I’m looking for vintage women’s clothing from the 1920s-1980s. Dresses, coats, belts, hats, anything special or unique.

Happy to pay cash and give your old treasures a new life!

Please call 203-530-0197

Rental

Repairs • Remodeling ALL TYPES OF BUILDING REPAIRS Repairs • Remodeling $50.00 per hour ALL TYPES OF BUILDING REPAIRS Carpentry • Doors • Locks $50.00 per hour Windows • Stairs • Closets Decks • Drywall • Painting Carpentry • Doors • Locks Windows Stairs Small •jobs are• Closets fine Decks • Drywall • Painting Jim 203-530-2670 LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590 Small jobs are fine

Jim 203-530-2670

LIC. #0663008 LIC.#0570590 Casanova Builders, LLC

Call (860) 701-4412

Joseph Casanova Jr.

­Storage/ Warehouse

­Storage/ Warehouse

AUTO STORAGE

—

Climate controlled auto storage located In Essex CT area. 3, 6, and 12 month rentals available. Call Eric 860-662-6151

MR. FIX IT

BUILDING & REMODELING

HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTING

MR. FIX IT

Kitchens • Bathrooms HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTING Basement Kitchens • •Bathrooms Plumbing Electrical I Will Call Back!

Basement Stephen S. Simonetti Plumbing • Electrical 203-245-2592 203-458-8222 Licensed I Will Call Back! & Insured www.mrfixitllc.com

203-245-2592 203-458-8222

www.mrfixitllc.com

Lic. #578530

Stephen S. Simonetti Licensed & Insured Lic. #578530

Since 1956

203-444-6297

Rental

www.zip06.com

Casanova Builders, LLC

Addition • Decks • Flooring • Attic/Basement Remodeling Finish Carpentry • Custom Ceramic, Marble & 1956 Since Granite Tile Work & Counter Tops • Total Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Interior & Exterior Painting Addition • Decks • Flooring •• Attic/Basement Remodeling Lic. #561417 ~ Insured ~ Work Guaranteed Finish Carpentry • Custom Ceramic, Marble & 203-444-6297 Joseph Casanova Jr. Granite Tile Work & Counter Tops • Total Custom Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Interior & Exterior Painting Lic. #561417 ~ Insured ~ Work Guaranteed

Rental

place your classified online

**WANTED** Firearms Single or Collections ______________________ Including military and related items.

Federal firearms license.

Appraisals. ______________________ Richard Pleines 860-663-2214

Merchandise

Real Estate

­Wanted to Buy

­Wanted to Buy

WANTED TO BUY Old Records Purchased 12” LPs and 7” 45 rpm only. No 10” 78s.

203-710-9943

d239532 d239532

Announcements

• • Siding • Windows • Siding • • Gutters • Windows • Siding Repairs • Siding • Windows • Gutters • Windows 24MO 0% OR • Siding • Repairs Gutters • Siding Gutters $500 OFF • Windows Repairs • Windows Repairs 24MO 0% OR • Gutters • Gutters $500 24MO 0% OR 24MO 0% OR OFF 860 •860.230.0853 Repairs •$500 Repairs OFF OFF $500 RI www.jfkroofing.com 860 24MO 0% OR 24MO 0% OR * credit terms apply $500 OFF $500 OFF 860.230.0853 CT

Reg #0654527

CT

Reg #06545

*credit t

CT

Reg #0654527

Reg #43858

CT

Reg #0654527

CT

Reg #0654527

www.jfkroofing.com * credit terms apply

CT

Reg #06545

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RI

Reg #43858

SERVICE DIRECTORY

16 • CLASSIFIEDS • HARBOR NEWS

DECEMBER 18, 2025

BUILDING & REMODELING

Shoreline Deck Company, LLC Making Ideas Happen Additions, Bathrooms, Pergolas, Pool Houses, Pavilions, Outdoor Kitchens

ROOFING SIDING WINDOWS DOORS GUTTERS FAMILY TRADITION SINCE 1955 DECKS

860-552-6027

Please call for a free design consultation & estimate

203-453-2333

www.shorelinedeck.com | chris@shorelinedeck.com

HIC.0547261

Additions • Dormers • Decks Basements • Roofs • Rip Jobs Build Up or Build Out We Do It All!

Since 1981 38 Years Exp.

BRUCE STERLING Remodeling & Building

• Carpentry: Interior/Exterior • Drywall • Siding No Jobs • Decks Too Small!

• Doors & Windows • Kitchens, Baths & Flooring • And More!

Cell (203) 915-5084

Lic. #541195 Insured • Over 30 Years Experience

T. Robert’s Construction, LLC From Design To Completion

Fully Insured

Lic #563264

(203) 507-6902 • Branford, CT

CLEANING SERVICES

Home & Business Cleaning info@geniemaids.com

J&P RESTORATION General Contractor J.A. Petrillo - Owner Roofing Remodeling Additions Kitchens Garages Masonry Decks Gutters

Siding Sheet Rock Bathrooms Paper Hanging Painting Plumbing Electrical Windows

203-982-5436 HIC.0560655

Free Estimates - References Over 10 Years Experience

ROBLES CLEANING SERVICE Jeisi Robles (203) 572-7483

HOUSES - CONDOS - OFFICES

E-mail: jeise24@hotmail.com

SKY CITY

HOME IMPROVEMENT, LLC DECKS KITCHENS BATHROOMS ADDITIONS CARPENTRY PAINTING

WINDOWS DOORS SIDING GUTTERS ROOFING

(203) 392-4516

Guilford, CT. Licensed & Insured

Free Estimates HIC # 0646127

DECKS

DRYWALL

DECK RESTORE

Seasons Greetings from

Sanding/Refinishing Softwash House Cleaning Decks/Hardwood Floors Decks Cleaned/Repaired/Sanded &Power Stained • Hardwood Floors Washing of Homes Patios & Walkways Power Washed Protect your investment, Free Estimates beautify your home.

203-996-4981 Brian

licensed /insured HIC #0678344

ELECTRICAL

Early Deadlines for Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 Issues SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS Tues., Dec. 16 at 5 p.m.

CLASSIFIED LINERS ADS Wed., Dec. 17 at 4 p.m. and Tues., Dec. 23 at 4 p.m.

Daniel Brown Electric LLC • New Construction • Generators Chargers • Remodeling/ • Car Landscape Lighting Additions • Pools • Service Upgrades • Troubleshooting • Kitchens • Baths • Finished Basements

860-399-4444

CT License #199056-E1 Licensed & Fully Insured P.O. Box 221, Westbrook, CT 06498

Early Deadlines for Jan. 8 Issue SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS Tues., Dec. 23 at 5 p.m.

Marc Geoghegan

Community

License #ELC.0203098-E1 Fully Insured

CLASSIFIED LINERS ADS Tues., Dec. 30 at 4 p.m.

Remodeling/Additions Kitchens, Baths, Finished Basements Generators and Service upgrades Troubleshooting • Free Estimates

Call 860-701-4200

4gelectricct@gmail.com • fb.me/4GElectric

860.331.9901

in print every week & online every day at zip06.com 203-245-1877 Ext. 6130 860-701-4200

HARBOR NEWS • CLASSIFIEDS • 17

EXCAVATING

GUTTER CLEANING

CLUTTER IN THE GUTTER

EXCAVATION DEMOLITION & SITE PACKAGES Building Lots Cleared and Developed Site Excavation for New Homes, Additions & Garages Septic Systems, Utilities Trenching

The Original

FOUNDATIONS & CONCRETE WORK Foundations & Concrete Work Additions, Garage Foundations Barns, Slabs & Structural Piers Retaining Walls

Complete Site Work - Paving - Driveways Mulch, Stone, Screened Topsoil,

SEAWALL & DOCK CONSTRUCTION Seawall Masonry Repointing Boulder and Revetment Stone Dock Repairs & Pile Installations.

Sand & Gravel House Sites, Septic Systems, Demolition

Why Hire 3 Contractors When K.E.Braza Construction Handles The Entire Site Process?

Water Mains, Sewers 756 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook, CT

25 Year Family Business Proudly Serving Connecticut Shoreline

www.blexcavating.com - 860-388-9665

www.KEBrazaConstruction.com 203-530-7191

SEAMLESS GUTTERS PLUS

Gutter Installation • Gutter Guards Gutter Cleaning • Maintenance Program abguttersplus.com We do half-round, seamless gutters

Joe Scala

Fully Insured | HIC. 061885 References upon request

LANDSCAPING

Mejia’s Lawn Cut Services, LLC

All Aspects of Residential/Commercial Lawn Care * Spring & Fall Cleanups * Tree Work * Power Washing * Snow Plowing * Brush Removal * Gutter Cleaning * Stonework * Lawn Installations (Seed or Sod) & Maintenance * Planting, Pruning, Mulching, Trimming, Weeding * Weekly Lawn Cutting Available * Painting No Job Too Big or Too Small Call (203) 928-0241 today for your free estimate!

Scott’s Gutter Fully Insured Cleaning HIC #0634550

No Job Too Small • No Job Too Large Complete Cleaning, Installation and Repairs for Gutters

• We Demo We Dig and We Pour your Foundation 1 Contractor 1 Price • Make The Call This Fall, Get it Done Before Next Season Direct: 860-662-0124 | Office: 860-399-5290

GUTTERS

Owner/ Operator Scott Behler

Roof Repairs • Handyman Services Power Washing • Roof Washing Black Stains & Algae Removal Prompt Courteous Service, Done on Time

203-466-0520

Green Gloves L Gutters, LC

SEAMLESS GUTTERS

JUNK REMOVAL

LANDSCAPING

CHAMPLIN’S LANDSCAPING & EXCAVATION

Commercial & Residential

JUNK REMOVAL SERVICES

Locally Owned and Operated Family Business

• Installation • Repair • Cleaning • Roofing • Window Replacement • Remodeling • Gutter Gaurds • Siding

203-245-9448

SERVING MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NEW HAVEN COUNTY & FAIRFIELD COUNTY

GREENGLOVESGUTTERS.COM

HIRE A VETERAN

• General Waste Removal • Construction Debris • Sheetrock Demo • Shed and Deck Demo & Removal • Oil Tanks and Drums • Garage Cleanouts

We Donate & Recycle!

860-415-3313

• Fall Clean Up • Snow Plowing • Shrub Pruning • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding SENIOR DISCOUNT

• Fence Repair • Gravel Driveways • Excavator Work • Shed Demolition • Junk Removal

860-510-3509

Lic. # 0653900

203.727.6405

www.thecleanoutcompanyllc.com

Ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com ivan.acevedo6475@gmail.com

FULLY INSURED

• Landscaping • Painting • Mowing • Trimming • Masonry Service • Mulching • Gutter Cleaning • Powerwashing • Small Tree Removal • Fall & Spring Clean-Ups

LANDSCAPING

Landscape Design & Build Hand Drawn Renderings Full Estate Plans RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • CONDO • Irrigation Systems Installs/Maintenance • Lawn & Landscape Maintenance • Fertilizing & Tick Control • Retaining Walls • Architectural Pavers: Poolside & Patios • New Lawn Installations: Sod Installs/Hydroseed • Excavations & Drainage • Landclearing/Foundation: Dozer Site Work • Dumpster Services Serving the Shoreline Area Since 1996

Call today for consultation (860) 767-2811 www.sullivanlawnservices.com FERT #B2547

CT HIC #0606162 CT Lic# P1-0204385

NOW SERVICING THE SHORELINE AREA FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE Weekly Mowing Spring/Fall Clean Ups Aerating & Overseeding Pruning Mulching

Landscape Design & Installation Paver Patios & Walkways Retaining Walls Cobblestone Poolscapes Fire Pits Outdoor Kitchens Concrete Fencing CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

www.violalandscaping.com

Fully licensed HIC #0561037 & Insured

m

SERVICE DIRECTORY

DECEMBER 18, 2025

CELEBRATING OVER 41 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

860-635-1030 office@violalandscapingllc.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY

18 • CLASSIFIEDS • HARBOR NEWS MASONRY OLD WORLD CRAFTSMANSHIP

SOSOLI’S

MOVING & HAULING

Father & Son Masonry Over 30 years experience Specializing In:

M AS O N RY, L LC HIC.0618942

Stone Walls • New Fireplaces Special Steps • Stone Design Swimming Pools • Sidewalks • Stucco Chimneys • Patio Bricks & Blocks Small & Large Jobs

10% OFF WITH THIS AD (exp. 4.30.25)

Specialized Masonry Work Owner on Every Job 30 Years Experience Free Estimates

DECEMBER 18, 2025

Stonewalls, Seawalls, Special Steps, Patios, Sidewalks, Swimming Pools, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Belgium Block, Blue Stone Pavers, Stucco, Big & Small Jobs Welcomed We do it all!

Serving the Shoreline with Pride Great Prices Italian Craftsmanship All Work Guaranteed

NEED SOMETHING MOVED? “No Job Too Small”

Will do Dump Runs also.

Call Luke at

203-464-0444

Cell: 203-510-9162 - Jeff Office: 203-565-9079 - Jimmy

www.greatmason.com PLUMBING SERVICES

Commercial & Residential Interior/Exterior Painting • Power Washing - Staining Free Estimate/Fully Insured/Licensed CT HIC.0578520

203-483-5590 203-645-8717 Valentinopaintingllc@yahoo.com

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Leaking l GC NRBoilers, ITogeR AogeR EFOR Hwww.RogerCramptonLLC.com lC PLUMBING G NntnIooBppipes, UaaYEARS LRCC PGas l RRReeHEATING l AIR CONDITIONING C Rampton no m a R epiping oR pumps, R Rampton m C g ogR • Roof Cleaning ogeR CWater Rampton ttM ppm R g o eR Rampton Heaters, Well Well Tanks, Water filtration, Faucets, OVER 20

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20

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Christmas in the Philippines: It’s About Faith, Friends, and Family

By Maria Caulfield Living Editor

It’s quite literally on the opposite side of the world; take a globe with the United States facing you, then spin it 180 degrees, and somewhere in that region in the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find the Philippines.

The time zones also indicate its distance—in the spring, when the United States observes daylight saving time, Philippine time is 12 hours ahead. So, midnight in the U.S. East Coast is noon in the Philippines.

Occasionally mistaken as an island, the Philippines is an archipelago with a whopping total of 7,641 islands with three main regions: Luzon in the north, Visayas in the central region, and Mindanao down south.

I boarded two plane rides over some 20 hours to get to Manila, the capital and the largest metropolis in Luzon and in the country. My parents and most of my siblings live in different cities within the borders of Manila.

Door-to-door and including the wait time, the trip takes at least 24 hours, a journey I say is not for the faint of heart.

But traveling to the Philippines to spend the Christmas season with family is well worth the trip. Although my trips don’t always last through Dec. 25, I get the meaning and essence of Christmas by simply being with family around the season, when the Christmas spirit comes alive.

Christmas in the Philippines is not a celebration of a day or a week. It is a season far longer than that.

While Americans debate whether Christmas displays in stores and on streets before Thanksgiving is too early, there is no such discussion among Filipinos.

Thanksgiving is rooted in a historical event in the United States, and so for the Philippines—though a predominantly Catholic country—no such celebration of gratitude exists. Hence, Christmas does not come on the heels of a major holiday marked by family reunions.

Instead, once the ‘ber’ months begin (that’s September), Filipinos start hearing Christmas tunes played over the radio, in TV

Photo by Mike Angeles

The author's niece, Isabelle, and nephew, Miggy, in their younger years in their home in Manila at Christmas

Photo by Mike Angeles

Christmas lights and ornaments are put up early at Bag of Beans, a popular restaurant and coffee shop in the Philippines known for its thematic decorations.

commercials, and in live performances. Churches, stores, streets, and even entire residential subdivisions glow with Christmas trees, glimmering lights, religious Nativity scenes, and animated holiday displays.

The country also does not experience four seasons. Rather, it has the rainy monsoon season that begins April or May and runs through October, and the drier months spanning November to March.

The months of November to February tend to also have cooler weather, though December may experience the fluke of some hot days.

Christmas Day hit a hot and humid 90 degrees years ago when I brought my husband and two young boys for a Philippine vacation. No matter for my boys—they ran around the yard, sweat dripping down their faces but happy to give chase to their cousins and delighted to ignite some sparklers typically not allowed in my household in the U.S. Part of the country’s Christmas tradition is what is called Simbang gabi, literally translated as “night Mass.” The term is a misnomer because Mass is held not in the nighttime hours but just before dawn for nine consec-

Photo by Mike Angeles

Photo by Maria Caulfield

The reason for the season: The birth of Jesus is depicted in Nativity scenes that are common in Philippine homes and churches weeks before and after Christmas Day.

On a warm Christmas Day in the Philippines, the author's son, Justin, runs around the yard and is held back for a brief rest by his cousin, Miggy.

utive days in the lead-up to Christmas. Among Catholics, it’s a novena of Masses in anticipation of the nativity of Jesus; Filipinos literally and figuratively rise to the occasion from Dec. 16 to Dec. 24 and attend Mass in their Sunday best.

It’s a tough practice to follow—as I can attest—and I applaud those who have completed the nine consecutive dawn Masses. Growing up in the Philippines, I tried to keep with the practice year after year; the longest I could go was four or five consecutive Masses.

Gatherings outside churches usually take place after each predawn Mass. As the sun begins to rise, friends and families share an early morning meal with different rice cakes: bibingka (a delicious rice cake topped with butter, cheese, and slices of hardboiled salted egg and cooked in a shallow terracotta bowl with heat from above and below), suman (sweetened glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves and sprinkled with sugar or drizzled with coconut caramel), and puto bumbong (steamed purple rice slathered with butter, sugar, and grated dried coconut). The food is paired with hot chocolate called tsokolate or ginger tea called salabat. For those who want a more

savory dish, a Filipino-style rice and chicken congee flavored with ginger and garlic called arroz caldo is real comfort food in the cooler early morning hours.

Aside from the dawn Masses, Filipinos typically attend the Advent Masses on the four Sundays that precede Christmas. In my teenage years and early 20s, I sang with the church choir on both the Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses. It allowed me to deepen my faith, feel more involved with the church and community, and connect with friends, especially during the Christmas season.

Apart from Christmas hymns in churches and songs over the radio and TV, Christmas carols are often heard outside homes when street children go house to house to sing popular holiday jingles. Though not always in tune and with hardly any practice, the children would come to our home to give an amusing—yet endearing—performance as they happily belt out their songs accompanied by bells and tambourines to collect a few pesos before running off to the next house.

In my family, Christmas Eve is a boisterous affair. Growing up with seven siblings along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and See Christmas page 21

21

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Calendar for the Week of December 18, 2025

Concert by Low Lily with Matt Flinner: 7:30 p.m. The

ister (required), call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexli-

THURSDAY, DEC. 18

FRIDAY, DEC. 19

Holiday Jamboree Tea: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $40 plus tax and gratuity.

For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.

Scranton Library Friends Annual Meeting: 10 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by Scranton Library Friends. Attendees can meet board members and learn about past and planned activities for the Friends. For info, contact 203-589-8303 or chas.reese2@gmail.com.

and activities. For families with children ages 6 and up.

Participants are advised that one of the crafts involves peanut butter. For info or to register (required), call the library at 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

For more Life & Style stories, visit our website, Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old brary.org. www.zip06.com. To submit events for the calendar, Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Solstice Celebration: 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Guilford Free email news@shorepublishing.com.

Library, 67 Park St. Features family-friendly stories, crafts,

Red Cross Blood Drive: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. St. Peter Catholic Church, 30 Saint Peter’s Ln., Higganum. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-7332767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Red Cross Blood Drive: 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Essex Town Hall, 29 West Ave. For info or an appointment, call 1-800RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

Winter Solstice Craft Workshop: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For high school-aged teens. Part of GAC's drop-in art club. Free. No prior registration or Guilford residency required. For info, call 203453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Make Your Own Snow Globe: Two sessions: 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. and 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For children ages 5 and up. All supplies provided. Arrive 15 minutes before Friends of the Library “Wrap & Yap” Fundraiser: 9 a.m. the program starts. For info or to register (required), call to noon. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features gift203-245-8722 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com. wrapping with materials provided; attendees may bring their own wrapping paper. Cost: $1 for XS/S items, $5 for M/L items, and $10 for XL items. For info, call 860-663A Christmas Carol: 6:30 p.m. Chester Meeting House, 4 Liberty St. Features a live, one-man performance by Ken- 2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org. neth Noll, professor emeritus of microbiology at the University of Connecticut and community theater performer. Tween Time: Ice Bowling: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Sponsored by the Friends of the Chester Public Library.

Ave. Features an outdoor ice-bowling activity for ages 8 To register, contact the Chester Public Library at 860-526- to 12, with participants taking turns rolling frozen balls 0018 or library@chesterct.org. For info, visit chesterctlidown a cardboard lane to knock over pins. Weatherbrary.com/adultprograms. dependent; registered participants will be notified of cancellations by phone or email. Free. For info or to reg-

Living Nativity: 6 and 7 p.m. Lutheran Church of Madison front lawn, 9 Britton Ln. Features a cast of performers, the church choir, and live animals from Tripledale Farm in Guilford. After each 20-minute program, guests are invited indoors for free hot cocoa and cookies. Children are welcome. For info, call the church at 203-2454145 or visit lutheranchurchofmadison.com.

FRIDAY, DEC. 19 AND SATURDAY, DEC. 20 Sister’s Christmas Catechism: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 1:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or to purchase a ticket, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 20 Friends of the Library “Wrap & Yap” Fundraiser: 9 a.m. to noon. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features giftwrapping with materials provided; attendees may bring their own wrapping paper. Cost: $1 for XS/S items, $5 for M/L items, and $10 for XL items. For info, call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

See page 22

Christmas in the Philippines: It’s About Faith, Friends, and Family Continued from page 20 grandparents, I have vivid memories of large gatherings around a Christmas tree decorated with festive balls and lights.

However, our attention was not so much on the decorations and lights on the tree as on the dozens of presents that lay beneath.

As children typically do, we would feel and shake each present, eager to guess what each wrapped package held.

Before we could open our gifts, our family would go to the traditional midnight Mass—another loose term because the Mass often takes place a few hours before midnight to allow families to return home

for noche buena, or the traditional Christmas Eve feast.

My mother would dress up our large oval table in a red table cloth and layer it with a white table textile crocheted by my grandmother that allowed the crimson color to show through. The table would be laden with ham or lechon (a whole roasted pig), pancit (noodles with vegetables and chicken or pork), queso de bola (Edam cheese formed into a ball), relyeno (filleted milkfish), lumpia (spring rolls), various stewed dishes, and several desserts.

As children, we would finish our meal ahead of the adults, eager to get to the presents. It’s fairly common for my family to

get to that exciting part of opening Christmas gifts after the clock strikes midnight and we joyfully greet each other, “Merry Christmas!”

There was no order on who opened presents first. As soon as we all gathered in the living room, we would search under the tree for our presents and excitedly unwrap each one. Neighbors always knew when we were done with our noche buena and started opening gifts with our loud laughter and celebration.

Now in their 90s, my parents have relegated the Christmas arrangements to my siblings, who organize the Christmas family reunions as a way of passing on some of

the traditions to the next generation.

Although slightly different from the counterpart celebrations in the Philippines, the Christmases I celebrate now with my family members in the U.S. carry many similarities.

Many of us gather at my aunt’s house in Maryland to be with close friends and family members. Many still attend Christmas Eve Mass, and we all share the traditional noche buena feast.

And yes, Christmas gifts still abound in the living room. At the stroke of midnight, we all give each other celebratory greetings of “Merry Christmas,” followed by the opening of gifts and much festive laughter.

22

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

A Holiday Memory: The Wrap & Rap

By Liz Egan Special to Living

One of the special memories I have of the holidays is the years I spent between 1987 and 2000 visiting my mother on Long Island and wrapping her gifts for my siblings, their spouses, and children, while she shared stories of my childhood and the history of my family. We called these weekends the Wrap & Rap. Although I grew up in a very large family—the 11th of 15 children—by the time I was a few years out of college, my mother was living at home alone. My father had passed away a year after I graduated. My older siblings had families of their own, and my younger siblings were just starting their post-college careers. I was a nonprofit arts administrator, divorced at the time, and living alone in Connecticut.

On Friday of the second weekend each December, I would travel by ferry to Long Island after work. My mother and I organized the dining room table with gift wrap, scissors, cellophane tape, tissue paper, recycled gift boxes, bows, and curly tie ribbon. Down from the closets and under the beds came all of the shopping bags of presents that my mother had purchased all year long. She shopped throughout the year because with the sheer numbers—15 children, most with spouses, a growing number of grandchildren—and a limited budget, doing it all in a few weeks before Christmas was not a logistical option.

Throughout the year, when something caught her eye, she bought it.

In my childhood, my mother and siblings and I attended many church fairs.

My mother did a lot of holiday shopping there purchasing handmade ornaments and white elephant treasures. Special gifts to her working daughters allowed her to frequently shop at her favorite store, Loeh-

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan

Photo credit: Liz Egan

The author's mother, Virginia Bermel

Wrapped presents under the Bermel family Christmas tree

mann’s. Toys and games for a range of ages and her own hand-knit mittens and hats filled dozens of shopping bags. She didn’t always know who she bought what for, and part of the special fun of the Wrap & Rap was assigning gifts to individuals.

My mother manned the lined pad, spacing names by family—her child, their spouse, their children—until all the names were listed. I would pull a gift from the bag, and she would say for whom she intended to give the gift or we would decide together. Then, she would write it down next to the person’s name until everyone was accounted for.

Usually, she had created a special family gift for all of us, like the year she made a dozen wreaths from the grape vines in our backyard or the year she made handsewn quilt Nativity wall hangings. I would always wrap those gifts first in a gift box,

with her special note. Each family gift would also have one of the handmade ornaments tied to the curly tie ribbon on top. These larger gifts started the piles, set all about the room, by family, that would later be packed into cardboard boxes and addressed, ready to ship by the end of the weekend.

After breakfast Saturday, we continued throughout the day, taking necessary breaks, to locate bags of gifts that were overlooked when we emptied the closets before we started. At times, there were as many as 150 gifts, some as small as an ornament, small toy, or a bag of a favorite candy, each individually wrapped. While I wrapped the gifts, my mother shared story after story of Christmases gone by—the hand-knit Christmas stockings, holiday baking, the Christmas play, my Christmas Day birth story, and dozens more. It was

Continued from page 21 Winter Reading Kickoff: Ed Pop Magic Show: 10 a.m.

Essex Town Hall, 29 West Ave. Hosted by the Essex and Ivoryton libraries. Features a family magic program for ages 3 and older with magician and storyteller Ed Popielarczyk, with audience participation. Free and open to the public. For info or to register (required), call 860-7671560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Letters to Santa: 10 a.m. to noon RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Features a drop-in activity where children can write letters to Santa using provided stationery and coloring supplies. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Cookie Decorating and Hot Chocolate Bar:10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Features cookie frosting and decorating along with refreshments from a hot chocolate bar. For info, call 860-526-0018 or visit chesterctlibrary.com.

Allis-Bushnell House Open House: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Allis-Bushnell House Museum, 853 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Hosted by the Madison Historical Society (MHS). Visitors can explore the museum and view the exhibit, A Snail-Mail Holiday: Selections from the MHS Collection of Greeting Cards in the tearoom. The MHS shop offers a variety of Madison-themed gifts. Free admission but donations are welcome. For info, visit madisonhistory.org.

too many years before I thought to tape her, but the yearly repetition cemented them in my mind and heart, and I reflect upon them fondly every year around the holidays. Before I left Sunday, I would clean up the gift wrap station and bake a couple of batches of cookies for her to gift to her friends and neighbors.

Recently, I attended our town’s craft fairs, supporting local artisans and churches, something I now see is a learned tradition of my holiday. I continue to knit Christmas stockings, bake many of the same cookies, and still wrap my gifts with colorful papers, not bags. The Wrap & Rap allowed the traditions of my childhood to be forged into my life as an adult making every Christmas special. These expressions of love and connection have become part of me and I love sharing them every year, in the form of gifts from my heart.

Holiday Art Fair: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. RiverFire Glass Studio @ SoMA, 500 Main St., Deep River. Features local vendors, a shop and gallery, flash tattoos by Amygdala Ink, and food trucks from Honeycone Ice Cream and Cold Spring Farm. For info, call 860-864-5004 or visit riverfireglass.com.

Holiday Jamboree Tea: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $40 plus tax and gratuity.

For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.

See page 24

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

23

Irving Berlin and Spectacular Dancing Highlight Goodspeed’s White Christmas

By Karen Isaacs Columnist

How can you go wrong with spectacular dancing, glorious Irving Berlin tunes, and two romantic couples?

With Goodspeed’s production of White Christmas, through Dec. 31, you can’t. This may not be a perfect production, but it is a truly enjoyable one.

But before I quibble about some things, let’s look at the plot.

Developed in 2000, this show appeared on Broadway in 2008; authors David Ives and Paul Blake take the basic plot from the

Review THEATER

1954 movie starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera Ellen, and tweaked it; some songs were added and others deleted.

The first scene sets up at the background—a European WWII army unit in 1944. Captain Bob Wallace and Private Phil Davis have joined forces to put on a Christmas show for the company;

Photo by Diane Sobolewski

The finale in Irving Berlin's White Christmas at Goodspeed Musicals.

Wallace is an established performer, and Davis seems more of a cut-up. When the commanding officer, General Waverly, is reassigned, he addresses his troops and wonders where they will be in 10 years’ time.

Fast-forward to 1954. Wallace and Davis are very successful song and dance men; Wallace is all business, and Davis is a ladies’ man. Just before Christmas, they go to a club to hear a nightclub act featuring the sisters of a fellow soldier, Pvt. Haynes.

Phil and Judy Haynes are immediately attracted to each other and set about bringing Bob and Betty together, though there appears to be an instantaneous dislike. All four end up at a Vermont inn where the sisters are booked to appear, which just happens to be owned (not successfully) by General Waverly. Various romantic complications occur, but, as in a Hallmark movie, it all ends happily; even the inn is saved. The show ends with “White Christmas.”

The highlight is the dancing.

An early number, “The Best Things Happen While You’re Photo by Diane Sobolewski Dancing,” sets up the expectaLauren Nicole Chapman as Betty and Jonalyn Saxer as Judy in "Sisters" tions with a ballroom number by

Phil and Judy. Act II opens with a perhaps overlong but spectacular tap number, “I Love a Piano.” It stopped the show.

Director Henter Foster has done a competent job but has made a few choices that seem inexplicable. For example, Ezekiel, a guy who works at the inn, is slow-moving and taciturn in Act I. It’s funny. By the Second Act, he is more vocal, he moves faster and has an apparent romantic exchange with the stage manager. I also expected Foster to make some use of the aisles as well as to make the finale memorable.

But there were also some larger problems. Betty’s dislike of Bob is so extreme and exaggerated that it makes their coming together less believable. In fact, while the four leads are very, very good, that inexplicable chemistry is missing. You don’t really feel the immediate attraction between Phil and Judy, nor the growing attraction between Betty and Bob. Omar Lopez-Cepero, who was Emile de Becque in Goodspeed’s South Pacific, is vocally more of a crooner here. He doesn’t try to emulate Bing Crosby but brings

his own take on the role. At times, he doesn’t seem like the driven businessman/performer. Clyde Alves as Phil Davis dances up a storm and projects the devil-maycare attitude of the role. As the Haynes sisters, Jonalyn Saxer as Judy dances up a storm, and Lauren Nicole Chapman is fine as Betty. Chapman is very effective in “Love, You Didn’t Do Right

By Me.” Sofie Nesanelis, as Martha, the manager of the inn (who just happens to have been a Broadway performer), almost brings the house down with “Let Me Sing and I’m Happy.” The three women join for an unfamiliar Berlin tune, “Falling Out of Love Can Be Fun.” As usual, the production values are excellent, particularly the costumes by Jeff Hendry, the lighting by Kirk Bookman and Nathan W. Scheuer, and the sound by Jay Hilton. The musical direction by Adam Souza and the Goodspeed orchestra were terrific.

The star of the show is Kelli Barclay’s choreography.

You might be able to snag a ticket to this enjoyable seasonal show at Goodspeed.org.

24

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Yale Rep Tackles Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler with Mixed Results: The Passion is Missing THEATER

By Karen Isaacs Columnist

Henrik Ibsen in his play Hedda Gabler created a title character who can be difficult to like or to feel sympathy for unless the director and cast help us dive deep below the surface.

The Yale Rep production of Hedda, unfortunately, leaves us floundering.

Where the emotions and the tension among the characters should be electric, they aren’t. The result: The night I saw the play was one of those rare occasions when an audience did not give a standing ovation.

It’s disappointing because this production is director James Bundy‘s swan song as he retires as dean of the Drama School and artistic director of the Yale Rep in June. He is a fine director.

Hedda can, on the surface, be a malicious, manipulative, and ultimately destructive person, not just to herself but to those around her. The program tries to point out that she is a woman living in a society that does not give her, in modern terms, agency. But when you need extensive notes in the program to flesh out a show, it indicates there is a problem.

Unlike Nora, who in A Doll’s House frees herself, Hedda is lacking, as she will admit, the courage to live outside the boundaries of societal expectation. The result is, she destroys not only herself but most around her.

We meet Hedda in her new home in a provincial Norwegian town after returning from a six-month European honeymoon.

She is restless and bored; it is clear she does not love her husband, Jørgen Tesman, an academic. Hedda is a romantic at heart.

It helps if we realize she had run out of options and had settled for what might be a safe choice. Though her father was a

Review

well-known general, it’s clear she was not left with any financial security upon his death. She’s beyond the normal marrying age, and her options have expired. She is afraid to take the leap into love, particularly when the man she might choose has a destructive streak. Safe, boring, and respectable Jørgen Tesman it is.

The honeymoon was dull, with Tesman more interested in researching in dusty libraries than spending time with his new wife. She doesn’t even get to select her own home; rather, Tesman and his aunt have gone into debt to provide a home she didn’t really want.

Almost immediately, she learns Eilert Løvborg, the man she may have truly been attracted to, has reformed his self-destructive ways and is about to achieve academic success. She sees herself, day after day and year after year, as being trapped. If she had been a man, you could have pictured her becoming a military officer.

The problem with this production isn’t Marianna Gailus as Hedda. It is that a sense of danger is lacking. The play creates triangles of characters; the first triangle is Jørgen, Hedda, and Judge Brack, a friend.

You should feel that Brack (played by Austin Durant) understands her all too well and wants power to use over her. The second, third, and fourth triangles involve Løvborg. The first is him with Hedda and Mrs. Elvsted, who is the cause of his reformation. She has demonstrated the courage that Hedda lacks, taking a leap of faith and violating societal norms. The other is with Hedda, Judge Brack, and Løvborg.

Continued from page 22 Drop & Shop Art Workshop: Noon to 2 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Young artists explore holidaythemed art projects while parents have time for holiday shopping. Cost: $25; $22.50 for members. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

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

Photo courtesy of Yale Rep

Jørgen Tesman (Max Gordon Moore) and Hedda (Marianna Gailus)

Brack knows about their past relationship.

In reality, additional triangles exist in the play.

Gailus as Hedda gives a performance that emphasizes her manipulative nature so much so that a friend of mine asked if she was a sociopath. The performance doesn’t reveal enough of her depression, despair, and sense of being trapped.

Judge Brack, played by Austin Durant, gives a totally fine performance, but it is only late in the play that you feel any sense of danger. The play works best when the audience recognizes that Brack wants to exert power over her and can destroy her at will.

Løvborg represents the romantic hero—think of the poet Lord Byron—as he violates conventions without a care. She

pictures him with “vine leaves in his hair” like some Greek god. James Udom’s Løvborg seems no more interesting or charismatic than Tesman. It is hard to imagine that there was anything romantic or passionate between him and Hedda.

Sobriety may have changed him, but in this performance, he has shrunk to a cypher. It is hard for the audience to imagine that there is still electricity between the two.

Perhaps the performance that is most true to the character is Max Gordon Moore’s as Tesman—he conveys his love for Hedda, his dedication to his research, and his niceness, though he is oblivious to her feelings and what is going on.

Tickets are available at YaleRep.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 21

Advent Sundays at Emmanuel Episcopal Church: 10 a.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 50 Emmanuel Church Breakfast with Santa: 9 to 11 a.m. Madison Beach Hotel, Rd., Killingworth. Includes lighting of the Advent wreath, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Features breakfast, meet-and-greet with decoration of the Jesse Tree, and an Advent reflection at Santa and time for pictures, and a treat bag for each coffee hour. All are welcome. For info, call 860-663-1800 child. Tickets: $59 per person. Free admission for children or visit churchinthewilderness.org. under 3. Service fees apply. Bring a camera and have your child write a letter to Santa if preferred. For info or Author Talk: Jane Gordon: Noon. Chester Museum at reservations, visit madisonbeachhotelThe Mill, 9 W. Main St., Chester. Book: Christmas Memcurio.eventbrite.com or madisonbeachories: Letters at Christmastime. Part of the museum’s seahotelevents.com/hotel/hotel-happenings. sonal exhibit. For info, email bekwright@gmail.com or call 818-231-4203.

See page 25

25

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

CAS Presents its Holiday Exhibition Press Release from the Clinton Art Society

The Clinton Art Society (CAS) presents its Holiday Members Exhibition on view through Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. The exhibition offers inspiring art, ready for holiday gift-giving.

“The show is an uplifting and art-filled way to come together to celebrate the holiday season,” says CAS President Robin Hammeal-Urban.

The exhibit is at the Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 East Main Street, Clinton, and is open during regular Town Hall hours.

CAS is a vibrant arts community with members from across the state and beyond working in all fine art media.

The organization sponsors exhibits, educational programs, and critique sessions.

New members are always welcome. For more information, email CAS at casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

Photo courtesy of the Clinton Art Society

Lucretia Bingham, Winter in Westbrook Bay, oil

Continued from page 24 Annual Handel’s Messiah Sing or Listen: 2 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features a combination of Cappella Cantorum’s professional soloists with a chorus of talented volunteers. Singers rehearse at 1:30 p.m. in sections. Bring Messiah scores if available, or they will be provided. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Silver Bells: A Holiday Handbell Concert: 4 p.m. Tabor Lutheran Church, 45 Tabor Dr., Branford. Features a holiday concert by Shoreline Ringers, a community handbell ensemble. The program includes Christmas classics and arrangements of traditional holiday hymns. A freewill offering will benefit the Shoreline Ringers and the Tabor Handbell Choir. Free and open to the public. For info, call the church at 203-488-2541 or visit taborchurchbranford.org.

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

TUESDAY, DEC. 23 Music Together Demo Class: 10:30 to 11 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Features an early childhood music program for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers accompanied by a parent or guardian. Recommended for ages birth to preK. Registration required. For info or to register, call 203484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Fireside Holiday Tea: Noon to 2 p.m. Westbrook Inn Bed & Breakfast, 976 Boston Post Rd. Tea service features a choice of two teas, finger sandwiches, cookies, a warm scone with jam and crème fraîche, and more. Open to the public. Cost: $49.95 plus tax and gratuity. For info or to make a reservation (required), contact 860-399-4777 or info@westbrookinn.com, or visit westbrookinn.com/afternoon-tea.

Magical Shrinking Keychains: 1 to 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a craft program for children ages 5 to 12 to design, color, and cut shrinkable creations. Free. No registration required. For info, call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Pickin’ Party: 6 to 8 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Features a performance by blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24 Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. For info or to make an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 26 Red Cross Blood Drive: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2 767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

The Magic of the Honmoon: K-Pop Demon Hunters Music and Craft Event: 3 to 5 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features themed craft stations for children ages 5 to 12 with music from K-pop Demon Hunters. Free. No registration required. For info, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 27 Fancy the Flamingo’s Christmas Adventure Story Time: 10:30 a.m. Chester Public Library, 21 W. Main St. Features a reading by Connecticut author Tara Cantore from her book, Fancy the Flamingo’s Christmas Adventure, followed by a related craft activity. For info or to register

(required), call 860-526-0018 or email library@chesterct.org.

Professor Sepoc’s Wizard School: 11 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a science program for children ages 5 to 12 exploring chemistry through hands-on activities. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Frames in Film Encore: Van Gogh of Wheat Fields and Clouded Skies: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold Museum. Running time: 90 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Concert by Unforgettable Fire (Tribute to U2): 8 p.m.

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

Saturday Cinema: 2 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 28 Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Soundview Family YMCA, 628 E. Main St., Branford. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

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

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26 Continued from page 25

MONDAY, DEC. 29 Red Cross Blood Drive: 12:45. to 6 p.m.

First Congregational Church, 26 Meetinghouse Ln., Madison. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Chester Museum at The Mill Hosts Holiday Exhibit Press Release from Chester Historical Society

Sixth Annual New Day Hike: 11 a.m.

Chatfield Hollow State Park, meet at the toll booth. Hosted by the Friends of Chatfield Hollow State Park. Features a pinecone bird-feeder activity for children at the Oak Lodge Museum led by naturalist Wray Williams. For info, call Cheryl Buckley at 860-391-1919.

Chester Historical Society’s (CHS) Chester Museum at The Mill is in full holiday mode with a special installation of festive seasonal décor, live music performances, and an upcoming talk from Chester resident Jane Gordon about her book of holiday newsletters that spans decades. In conjunction with Chester’s Holiday Market, the museum will be open TUESDAY, DEC. 30 on Sundays through Dec. 21, from 10 a.m.

Ms. Rae’s School of Faeries: 5 p.m. Essex to 1 p.m.

Library, 33 West Ave. Features a program Gordon’s romance with the holidays is for ages 5 to 12 led by Ms. Rae, introducon full display on the first floor of Chester ing participants to different types of fairies Museum at The Mill, which is brimming and their folklore. Children will make with décor on loan from Gordon: a twinksmall offerings to place outdoors. Free. ling tree, vintage cards from 1903 to 1914, Registration required. For info or to regis- antique decorations dating back to the ter, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexli- Gilded Age, an ornate birdcage, and a handcrafted crèche with 1950s Fontanini brary.org. figurines. Also on tap are favorite holiday pieces from Chester Historical Society’s Winter-Inspired Sea Glass Ornaments archives and from CHS members’ perCraft Workshop: 5:30 to 7 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, sonal collections.

On Dec. 21 at noon, Gordon will talk 758 Main St., Branford. Led by Courtney of about her book Christmas Memories: LetRe-loved Designs. All supplies provided.

For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blacks- ters at Christmastime. The book reflects both Gordon’s personal memtonelibrary.org. ories—recipes, traditions, cards— and what was happening in the world—annual Pickin’ Party: 6 to 8 p.m. Nightingale’s holiday stamps, music, gifts—in a timesAcoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Fea- pan stretching from 1950 to 2023. tures a performance by blues musician “Since I was a child, I’ve always written Ramblin’ Dan Stevens. Tickets: $5 at the door, free for first-time guests. For info, visit musicnowfoundation.org.

For info, call 860-526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

Friday Movie Matinee: 2 to 4 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Chester resident Jane Gordon will talk about Post Rd., Madison. Features an afternoon her book of holiday newsletters that spans decades. film screening. Popcorn and soda provided. Registration preferred. For info, Christmas cards to family and friends,” visit scrantonlibrary.org/events.

Gordon says. “This time of year is the glue that keeps me in communication with Cupcake Celebration: 2:15 to 4 p.m.

Westbrook Public Library, Community them.”

Room, 61 Goodspeed Dr. Children will frost and decorate cupcakes to mark the arrival of 2026. For ages 4 and older. Dropins welcome. No registration required. For torium, 758 Main St., Branford. For chilinfo, call 860-399-6422. dren ages 5 and below. Drop-ins wel-

TUESDAY, DEC. 30 AND WEDNESDAY, DEC. 31

come. Sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Memorial Library. For info, visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

First Night: Bonfire Night 2026: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Branford Town Green. Features entertainment, ice carvings, wood carvings, s’mores, and a bonfire. In celebration of the New Year and America's 250th milestone anniversary. Free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Branford Parks, Recreation, and Senior Services Department. For info, visit branfordct.myrec.com/info/activities.

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

Best of Boston Comedy Festival: 7:30 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook.

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

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 31 Red Cross Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Essex Town Hall, 29 West Ave. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

New Year’s Eve Storytime: 10:30 a.m.

Deep River Library, 150 Main St. Features stories, music, and movement celebrating New Year’s Eve. No registration necessary.

Noon Year’s Eve Party: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd. Features a "Noon Year’s Party" with crafts, snacks, and a bubble dance, all leading up to the balloon drop at noon.

Free and open to all. No registration. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

A Magical Noon Year’s Eve: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a family celebration with a New Year’s craft, themed games, and a photo booth.

The event concludes with a sparkling cider toast at noon. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Noon Year's Eve Storytime: 11:30 a.m.

James Blackstone Memorial Library audi-

FRIDAY, JAN. 2 Prehistoric Games with Janet Lawler: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. For ages 3 to 7. For info or to register (required), call 860-5266039 or visit deepriverlibrary.accountsupport.com.

Photo courtesy of the Chester Historical Society’s Chester Museum

THURSDAY, JAN. 1 Annual Frosty 5K Road Race: Race day check-in and bib collection from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Features a 5K race, a kids fun run, and a 2M walk. All events begin at the Guilford Green. Kids fun run starts 10:30 a.m.; 5K race and 2M walk start 11 a.m. Post-race celebration at 11:45 a.m. Cost: 5K run and 2M walk, $35; kids fun run, $10 through race day. Proceeds benefit local community programs. Hosted by the Guilford Rotary Club. For info or tickets, visit guilfordrotaryclubct.com or runsignup.com/Race/CT/Guilford/GuilfordFrosty5K.

Tween Time: Intro to Dungeons & Dragons: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features an introductory session on the basics of Dungeons & Dragons for ages 8 to 12. Includes character creation and gameplay concepts. Free. Registration required. For info or to register, call 860767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

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

27

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Christmas on the Rocks is a Hilarious Antidote to Too Much Holiday Sugar

Review THEATER

By Karen Isaacs Columnist

New this year is Matthew McGloin, who is playing all the male characters. Jen Cody returns for another year as the women in the show and Richard Kline is back for his third year as the bartender. He’s even more comfortable in the role, which includes sly references to his role in Three’s Company.

Improved video quality of scenes from the various films and TV shows that play before the show is new this year. The scenes are crisper and clearer—a big improvement.

Audience members will all have their favorite scenes. I was glad to see ZuZu return, but I do wish Karen (the little girl from the TV cartoon, Frosty the Snowman) was permanently retired.

The joke has gone on too long.

Jen Cody is a fine comedian who has the dexterity to play The Elf on the Shelf to perfection.

McGloin is still finding his way with some of the characters. He was terrific as Ralph, and good as Kevin and Charlie Brown. HerPhoto courtesy of TheaterWorks Hartford mey, from the Rudolph the RedRichard Kline as the bartender and Matthew McGloin as Hermey the Elf from the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Nosed Reindeer cartoon, is always Reindeer cartoon an audience favorite.

Christmas on the Rocks is a Last year, Ralphie from A I’m glad to report that this year gone, after several years, Zuzu delight. For more information or Christmas Story was no longer in he is back and better than ever. from It’s a Wonderful Life has tickets, visit TWHartford.org. the show. I was disappointed, but While the Little Drummer Boy is returned.

If you need a break from Hallmark movies or Scrooge discovering the joys of Christmas, then take yourself to TheaterWorks in Hartford to see this year‘s production of Christmas on the Rocks, which runs through Tuesday, Dec. 23.

Artistic Director Rob Ruggiero developed this concept years ago, but each year it is slightly different.

The premise is original: What happened to those iconic children whom we all grew up seeing in movies and TV shows? What are they like as adults? A series of accomplished playwrights have answered these questions, sometimes in surprising and/or cynical ways.

In The Nutcracker, Clara is a young girl in love with her Cavalier. But what happens when she grows up? Does the romance continue? Is it happy? Her Cavalier is still young and handsome, but Clara is desperate to remain a young girl.

In a series of short scenes, we meet a number of these child characters, now as adults, who wander into a lonely neighborhood bar on Christmas Eve. They tell the bartender, in this case the marvelous Richard Kline, their tale of woe.

You will laugh your head off.

This is definitely not for kids, although older teens will enjoy it.

A few of the sketches have been in the show since the beginning, including the absolutely wonderful Charlie Brown sketch (written by Jacques Lamarre) that ends the show. Over the years, some sketches have been Photo courtesy of TheaterWorks Hartford removed, others have changed, Richard Kline with Matthew McGloin as Charlie Brown and some have returned.

Photo courtesy of TheaterWorks Hartford

Jen Cody plays the Elf on the Shelf in Christmas on the Rocks with Richard Kline

28

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • LIVING

Horoscopes

For the week of December 18 - December 24 ARIES • Mar 21/Apr 20

LIBRA • Sept 23/Oct 23

If you are feeling half-hearted about what you are working on, then put it off for a little bit and focus on something more interesting this week, Aries.

You can use the rest.

You have reason to be suspicious of someone’s motives this week. Just don’t go to extremes and start reading into every message or nuance, Libra.

TAURUS • Apr 21/May 21

SCORPIO • Oct 24/Nov 22

Make it your business to remind others not to take life so seriously this week, Taurus. The best way to do that is to show them how to laugh by example.

Scorpio, you might look super confident on the outside, but underneath you get anxious like everyone else. At some point this week you may need to ask for some help.

GEMINI • May 22/Jun 21

SAGITTARIUS • Nov 23/Dec 21

Your thoughts are on an important decision that you need to make, Gemini. It’s best to wait a few days before you get into the thick of things. You need to mull all possibilities.

It is easy to believe you have enemies around every corner, Sagittarius. Although you might have rubbed a few people the wrong way, most people actually are on your side.

CANCER • Jun 22/Jul 22

CAPRICORN • Dec 22/Jan 20

Cancer, you may have the courage and the confidence to deal with whatever life throws at you right now, but not everyone is as dedicated as you.

Make allowances for others this week.

Capricorn, usually you couldn’t care less what other people think about you. But this week it seems important to get another person’s approval for your actions.

LEO • Jul 23/Aug 23

AQUARIUS • Jan 21/Feb 18

Sensitive feelings are coming to the surface this week and you are not sure what to do about them, Leo. You won’t find peace of mind until you have dealt with them thoroughly.

Aquarius, be careful when dealing with someone in a position of power. They may have sights on a promotion you also hope to earn. Keep your cards close to the vest.

VIRGO • Aug 24/Sept 22

PISCES • Feb 19/Mar 20

Virgo, some unexpected news could come your way between now and the weekend. It may seem like a lot, but in the grand scheme of things, it will only be a minor issue.

Pisces, some people believe the world is full of doom and gloom, but you know that every day is what you make of it. Brighten the days of others with your positivity.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

Crossword solution for December 11, 2025

DECEMBER 18 Sia, Singer (50) DECEMBER 19 Ken Marino, Actor (57) DECEMBER 20 Jonah Hill, Actor (42) DECEMBER 21 Samuel L. Jackson, Actor (77)

Crossword

DECEMBER 22 Meghan Trainor, Singer (32) DECEMBER 23 Finn Wolfhard, Actor (23) DECEMBER 24 Ricky Martin, Singer (54)

CLUES ACROSS 1. American automotive titan 4. Tire term 7. Two-year-old sheep 10. Indigenous people of Thailand 11. Anti-Soviet Cold War group 12. Actress de Armas 13. Not moving 15. Cool!

16. Plants of the arum family 19. Connected with touch 21. Pen stain 23. Monetary units 24. School kids’ art project 25. Early Bell Canada executive 26. Sword 27. Hates 30. Fixed in one place 34. Pie _ __ mode 35. Moved swiftly on foot 36. Carrier on vehicle 41. A path to get through 45. “Rule, Britannia” composer 46. Spiritual leader 47. Flowing 50. Respectful compliments 54. Cure 55. Soft, lightweight fabric 56. Building material 57. Japanese delicacy 59. A way to cause to be swollen 60. One and only 61. You might get one in summer 62. Wreath 63. Thus far 64. They __ 65. Employee reference number

CLUES DOWN 1. Policemen (French) 2. Toy dog 3. Intestinal condition 4. Muscular weaknesses 5. Helps little firms 6. Alphabetical lists 7. Takes down 8. Facilitates 9. Ethnic people of Ethiopia 13. Engine additive 14. Explorers group 17. Written account 18. Consumed 20. Opposite of first 22. No (slang) 27. Government lawyers 28. NY Giants great 29. Small amount 31. A way to save for your future 32. Fall behind 33. Midway between northeast and east 37. Head pain 38. Wildly popular sport 39. “Princess Diaries” actress Hathaway 40. Boat race 41. About fish 42. Nursemaid 43. Able to be marketed 44. Not as large 47. Parts per billion (abbr.)

48. Paddle 49. Oneness 51. Bitter chemical 52. Not around 53. Very fast airplane 58. Main tributary of the Rhine

Word Search

29

LIVING • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

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

FOOD SERVICE WORD SEARCH

Word Scramble

Word Scramble solution for December 11, 2025: PURRS

A LA CARTE ALLERGENS BUSSER CHAFING COMPLIMENTARY COST COVER EXPEDITER GRIDDLE GUEST HOUSE MENU PANTRY RESTAURANT RUNNER SALE SEATING SERVICE SOMMELIER TABLE TIP TURN OVER WALK-IN YIELD Word Search solution for December 11, 2025

30

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • REAL ESTATE

Selling Your Home?

Let a premier local expert with 23 years of experience lead your success.

38 Sportsman Hill Road For Sale Madison $1,299,000

Real Estate Transactions BRANFORD 22 Bayberry Ln: Laura Jane Zilinskas RET and Matthew Zilinskas of Branford to Michael Stocker and Patricia Wang, $1,760,000 on 11/24/2025 13 Brushy Plain Rd: Clifford A. and Linda M. Trudeau of Branford to Salem Development LLC, $430,000 on 11/24/2025

For Sale $549,000

CHESTER 59 Castle View Dr: Joseph E Kmetz T and Janice M. Kmetz of Chester to Theresa Kmetz and Rodney Mcdaniel, $283,330 on 11/25/2025

7 Rocky Ledge Dr Clinton $265,000

Sold Seller’s Agent

7 Rocky Ledge Dr: Zachary Plourde of Clinton to Gianna Abbatello and Timothy Smith, $365,000 on 11/24/2025 7 Taylor Ridge Rd: Deena R. Gallerani of Clinton to Thomas M. Mayeski, $765,000 on 11/26/2025

56 Uncas Rd: James and Dana Ian 75 Harbor St: Robert Falcigno of of Clinton to Michael and Heather Branford to Steven and Dana Anderson, Vigeant, $539,000 on 11/24/2025 $1,280,000 on 11/25/2025 13 Hill St: Rcf 2 Acquisition T and Us Bank TNa Tr of Branford to Philippe Manuel, $215,000 on 11/26/2025

951 Old Clinton Rd Westbrook

1 Osprey Cmns S: Tamara Sutfin and Kathleen Wadlow of Clinton to Stephen E. and Judith Y. Vance, $1,350,000 on 11/24/2025

54 Maple St: Edward F. Mcgrath of Chester to Northofgrace LLC, $325,000 on 11/26/2025

CLINTON

Sold Seller’s Agent

Gigi Giordano Taylor Broker Associate / REALTOR® 203.671.2155 gigi.giordano@compass.com GigiGiordanoRealtor.com 5 Essex Square, Essex, CT 06426

Dedicated Professional Results

Linda’s Team at William Raveis Results That Speak For Themselves.

Linda O’Hara 860-209-7044

William Raveis 33 Main Street Old Saybrook, CT

Call or Text Today!

91 Main St: Ann M. Bates of Essex to Briana Fioretti and Scott Wilson, $650,000 on 11/24/2025

GUILFORD

EAST HAVEN 119 Bradford Ave: Susanne Pellegrino of East Haven to Lauryn L. Reinhardt, $300,000 on 11/24/2025 218 Dodge Ave: Travis Williams of East Haven to Franklin G. Jimenez and Mercedes E. Vintimilla, $320,000 on 11/19/2025 89 Eddon Dr: Anna Belli Irt and Angela Belli-Infante of East Haven to Jose L. Morales, $568,000 on 11/25/2025 60 Edward St: Albis Helen M Est and Michael A. Albis of East Haven to Jesse E. and Michael Brown, $545,000 on 11/25/2025

Clinton Yacht Dockominium Unit 49 Foote Rd: Constanza V. Mcnellis B3609: James and Karen Piscitelli of of East Haven to Jade P. Salvattore, Clinton to Melissa B. and Lucille $335,000 on 11/19/2025 Crescenzi, $14,000 on 11/24/2025

26 Ninety Rod Rd Clinton $345,000

ESSEX

THE WHITEMAN TEAM at William Raveis Real Estate

Kelly Whiteman Realtor

®

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

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

24 Copper Hill Dr Unit 24: James H. Ballentine of Guilford to Sharon Crockett, $440,000 on 11/26/2025 249 Driftwood Ln: Anthony W. Sorrentino of Guilford to Mandie S. Canestri, $70,000 on 11/26/2025 19 Polpis Ln Unit 19: 19 Polpis Lane LLC of Guilford to Raffaele and Amanda P. Romano, $162,500 on 11/26/2025 602 W Lake Ave: Michael Vespoli Dynasty T and Michael N. Delgass of Guilford to Goran Micevic and Cristiana Baloescu, $1,050,000 on 11/25/2025

102 Long Hill Rd: Marie A. Lancaster of Clinton to Kyle L. Fillion, $302,000 on 11/24/2025

75 Henry St: Superior Prop Group LLC of East Haven to Dylan P. Mcallister, $260,000 on 11/21/2025

28 Maple Ave: Robert Klein and Brenda Wiley of Clinton to Patricia Gallagher, $425,000 on 11/24/2025

211 Kimberly Ave: Cynthia M. and Nolan C. Scott of East Haven to Isabel N. Cerron, $325,000 on 11/21/2025

140 Wildrose Ave: Gerard M. and Kimberly L. Schmid of Guilford to Viviane K Briggs T and Viviane K. Briggs, $850,000 on 11/24/2025

27 Maplewood Dr: James and Jill E. Nenninger of Clinton to Evan T. Barillaro and Carly R. Ruzbasan, $600,000 on 11/25/2025

672 Main St: Giovannina Assoc LLC of East Haven to 672 Main Street LLC, $575,000 on 11/20/2025

KILLINGWORTH

25 Olde Orchard Rd: Andrew Hurley of Clinton to Zachary Plourde and Caitlin Glazier, $610,000 on 11/24/2025

252 Chestnut Hill Rd: Beck Lorraine A Est and Amy B. Nashwinter of Killingworth to Murphy S. Hackett, $750,000 on 11/25/2025

See page 31

31

REAL ESTATE • HARBOR NEWS • DECEMBER 18, 2025

Real Estate Transactions MADISON Diana Hartman

Broker, Realtor, ABR, CIPS

dianahartman@wpsir.com 917.509.4700

‘Love Where You Live’

52 Copse Rd: Deborah J. Dahl of Madison to Barbara E. Parker and Michael K. Hawkes, $799,000 on 11/26/2025 16 Eastwood Dr: Jeffrey Y. and Susan P. Ngeow of Madison to Michael J. and Jennifer C. Siteman, $700,000 on 11/24/2025 110 Randi Dr: Thomas F. Swank of Madison to Kevin P. and Melody Becker, $1,400,000 on 11/25/2025 60 Winterhill Rd: Frank J. Kuszpa of Madison to Brandon G. Spadory and Davia A. Schioppo, $620,000 on 11/25/2025

NORTH BRANFORD

FENWOOD BEACH ASSOCIATION! 33 Fenwood Road, Old Saybrook

84 Grove Rd: Johnson Pearl M Est and Patricia L. Gurney of North Haven to Elliott C. Griffin, $385,000 on 11/19/2025

$799,000 This beautifully renovated home is ready for you to move right into. The light-filled interior offers an open flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, perfect for relaxed coastal living. The primary suite features a gorgeous new full bath, while the finished lower level adds 700 sq ft of flexible space currently used as a family room and third bedroom.

282 Maple Ave: 282 Maple Ave Assoc LLC of North Haven to Y Access Transport LLC, $860,000 on 11/19/2025

OLD SAYBROOK

Excellence on the Connecticut Shoreline!

¡Ayudante de Principio a Fin! Helping You from Start to Finish!

#1 Coldwell Banker Agent in Middlesex County

Suzanne McConville, Realtor® Agente Inmobiliario

With nearly $300 million in sales volume and helping almost 1000 happy buyers and sellers over 20 years on the shoreline, Joel’s experience is invaluable.

Let him help you achieve your real estate goals.

Contact Joel Lucas Today!

201-725-1845

Suzanne.McConville@Raveis.com • www.SuzanneMcConville.raveis.com

117 Ayers Point Rd: Matthew and Annmarie Ryan of Old Saybrook to Weifeng Lu and Yuying Xue, $695,000 on 11/24/2025 48 Great Hammock Rd: Sharon A. Crockett of Old Saybrook to Kara Meleski, $579,000 on 11/25/2025 3 Jorgensen Ln: Yvonne Healey of Old Saybrook to Carmine Carpanzano and Rosina Bonesse-Carpanzano, $887,000 on 11/25/2025

JOEL LUCAS, REALTOR®

Serving the CT Shoreline from Branford to Stonington for over 20 years

860.304.9150 bankerbuddy@hotmail.com COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM

860-304-9150

Madison Office 752 Boston Post Road | Madison, CT 06443

Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Realty is a company owned office which is owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Be prepared before the next power outage.

2 Burr Hill Ter: Lawrence Cawley and Nancy Abrams of North Branford to 6 Obed Trl: Janet H Odonnell Ft and Elel Properties LLC, $330,000 on Janet H. Odonnel of Old Saybrook to 11/24/2025 Gary F. and Kim P. Plonski, $520,000 on 11/24/2025 4 Overlook Dr: Zachary W. Hawk of North Branford to Albert C. Nyack and Brooke L. Somers, $510,000 on WESTBROOK 11/26/2025 Totoket Rd: Lp Home Improvements LLC of North Branford to Richard J. Esposito, $697,300 on 11/24/2025 834 Totoket Rd: Michele B. and Richard A. Kinrade of North Branford to Coastal Ct Home LLC, $180,000 on 11/24/2025

NORTH HAVEN 35 Belvedere Rd: Bradley and Kathryn L. Vogel of North Haven to John Waybright, $455,000 on 11/17/2025

Make the right move.

Linda Nolf

860-227-8028 linda.nolf@raveis.com

William Raveis Real Estate • 33 Main Street, Old Saybrook

1525 Boston Post Rd Unit 166: Dgg Properties Co Inc of Westbrook to Lorraine L Hughes T and Lorraine L. Hughes, $14,000 on 11/25/2025 Copyright material of Banker and Tradesman / the Commercial Record and The Warren Group.

For past transactions, visit zip06.com/ realestate.

Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase* - valued at $535.

Call 860-743-9632 to schedule your free quote!

32

DECEMBER 18, 2025 • HARBOR NEWS • COMMUNITY NEWS

2025 BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL THE DAY

TUESDAY DECEMBER 23, 2025 MOHEGAN SUN ARENA TICKETS: $12

Purchase tickets by scanning the QR code or visiting the Mohegan Sun Box Office

NEW LONDON VS. NFA 4:00 PM PRESENTED BY

GRISWOLD VS. OLD LYME 6:00 PM

WEST HAVEN VS. NOTRE DAME WEST HAVEN

8:00 PM

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