The Sound 02-05-26 by dayshorepublishing

February 5, 2026

Branford, North Branford & Northford

Vol. XXX Iss. 6

Barn Blaze Devastates Branford Farm

Managing Editor

A fire at Fox Field Farm in Branford killed multiple animals and sent both the property owner and a firefighter to the hospital Jan. 30, according to town officials.

The morning blaze destroyed a 75- by 40foot barn with a loft that housed four horses

and several smaller animals. Fire officials said the property owner made a heroic attempt to rescue the animals and was able to free one horse before being forced out by rapidly deteriorating conditions. Three horses — Merlin, Willow, and Norman — along with rabbits, guinea pigs, and cats perished in the fire.

Branford fire crews responded to the Cherry Hill Road property at approximately 10 a.m., according to a press release from the Branford Fire Department (BFD) The first engine arrived within four minutes and encountered the barn already heavily

See Barn Blaze Devastates page 6

Harbor on Ice

A frozen Branford Harbor as seen from Branford Point on Sunday, Feb. 1. Temperatures reached a low of 10 degrees that day, following a low of 3 degrees on Jan. 31, as frigid weather continued to grip the area for several days. Seawater typically freezes around 28 degrees, requiring sustained cold to freeze over a harbor.

The Final Stretch

The T-birds’ girls’ basketball team is preparing to close out its regular season.........................................19

the Creative Spirit The Lyme Art Association is presenting An Exhibition in Five Acts......................................23

Laura Robida

PhotobyWesleyBunnell/ TheSound

Chad Adamik: A Pastor’s Journey of Faith

By Zachary Halas

Special to The Sound

Chad Adamik grew up in east central Ohio, approximately 50 miles away from Columbus, before beginning his long career in church leadership that brought him to Branford and Tabor Lutheran Church.

In December, he was installed as the church’s senior pastor, and leaders from various congregations in the area joined the celebration, which included a sermon by the Rev. Maria Hammons, associate to the Bishop for Missional Discernment and Legacy.

It was a special moment for Chad, one that had its roots in his upbringing as a young boy in Ohio.

“I guess I would say maybe 5 or 6 years old, I went to church every Sunday and wanted to do what the pastor was doing in our house,” said Chad.

Yet for a while he resisted the pastoral call.

“People who are eager to serve, their help was always accepted, but again still feeling like you don’t quite belong,” he said. “Again, that feeling, especially from a church perspective, led me away from seeking the pastoral call.”

Chad decided to attend Capital University in Columbus, where he studied education. Post graduation, he taught high school history for a couple years. He later graduated from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus.

Pastor Adamik’s college career helped him remember his sense of call, which he defines as a “willingness to follow Jesus, and help others on their journey.”

In between now and when Chad was first getting started, he has had three permanent positions, as well as a plethora of interim work for congregations in transition.

“I really enjoyed the interim work,” Chad said. “I have worked rural churches like the ones where I grew up. One interim took me out to Colorado!”

After Colorado, Chad and his husband, the Rev. Thomas Blake, were in Nevada because Pastor Adamik was called out to Saint Paul Lutheran Family in Carson City Nevada, where he stayed from 2017 to 2022.

Thomas Blake is an Episcopal minister who served as the priest in charge at Trinity Episcopal Church in 2022. In 2025, he was instituted as the Branford church’s 48th rector.

While being in Branford, the two got to know the town, which led to Pastor Adamik learning of Tabor and

Photo Submitted

Pastor Chad Adamik

Branford, North Branford, & Northford’s Hometown Newspaper

Branford RTM Approves DPW Projects

By Eric O'Connell

Staff Writer

Branford’s Representative Town Meeting on Jan. 14 unanimously approved bonding $10.8 million for the purchase of a building on East Industrial Road for a permanent Department of Public Works headquarters. The RTM also approved a $500,000 appropriation to pay for improvements at a temporary Department of Public Works facility.

Currently, Branford has a two-year lease for 30-36 East Industrial Road to temporarily house the town’s Public Works Department until a permanent home can be found.

In November, the Board of Finance voted to authorize bonding $10.8 million for purchasing the 5.28 acres property at 15 East Industrial Road and converting it into a permanent DPW headquarters building.

First Selectman Josh Brooks said he asked the RTM in December for more time to vet the project since the decision was made shortly before he became first selectman and he wanted more time to do due diligence on the property himself.

After a presentation at the meeting on the 14th, the RTM unanimously voted to approve bonding the $10.8 million.

The bonding wasn’t the only DPW related move the RTM approved.

In order to make the temporary facility at 30-36 East Industrial Road adequate for use by the department, Brooks said in December that there are required upgrades the town must put in place first.

Brooks said the renovations are as much for safety as they are for workflow. The appropriation will be used to pay for items like a large garage door, a specialized HVAC system to remove carbon monoxide, new fire alarms and fire suppressants, and electrical upgrades.

On Dec. 29, Brooks presented the pro-

posal to the Board of Finance, which unanimously approved the appropriation and sent it to the RTM.

Despite the approval, some BOF members said they were uneasy with the expense of the upgrades for a building the town may only be in for two years. Brooks said that while he shared that concern, some of the improvements such as the large garage door are items that the department can take with it when it moves into a permanent DPW location.

“I will not spend a penny more than what is absolutely necessary,” Brooks told the BOF last month.

At a Board of Selectman meeting on Jan. 21 the board unanimously voted awarding a contract to A. Secondino & Son, Inc. at a cost not to exceed $437,840 for the temporary fit-out work, according to meeting minutes.

Brooks said that the town investigated other sites around town, but none was suitably large enough for the DPW equipment. Right now, Brooks said that some equipment and personnel have moved into the East Industrial Road facility, while other equipment is stored at a site on School Ground Road that is in a flood plain. Brooks said that once the renovations are complete the equipment will be moved into the temporary facility.

The decision to lease the temporary space on East Industrial Road was made in July after the owners of the building on Route 139 that the town had been using for DPW headquarters informed the town that they were seeking to expand a business on the site and therefore there wouldn’t be room for the department.

The town had been renting space in the Route 139 building since 2011 after the old DPW building on North Main Street was vacated to make way for the town’s new Fire Department headquarters.

Program for High School Students

High school students are invited to audition for a place in The Anglican Singers, artists-in-residence at St. James Episcopal Church in New London. The choir is dedicated to preserving the English choral tradition of choral evensong. Selected singers will rehearse weekly from September through May in New London, receive instruction from Music Director Simon Holt, and sing alongside experienced vocalists. The group performs up to eight services and concerts during the season at St. James Episcopal Church, 76 Federal Street, New London, and at venues from Mystic to New Haven. Students accepted into the program must pass an audition with Holt and will receive a $500 stipend toward voice lessons or relevant training. Positions are open in the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass sections. For more information or to audition, email Simon Holt at smo.artisticdirector@yahoo.com.

Choral Scholarship

Christian Maldonado Valley Courier

Betsy Lemkin The Sound Guilford Courier Ext. 6130

Cindy Breckheimer The Source Ext. 6140

Lori Gregan Valley Courier Ext. 6167

Maria Caulfield Living Editor

Alicia Gomez Specialty Publications Editor

Laura Giannelli Chief Revenue Officer Ext. 4304

Laura Robida Managing Editor Ext. 6119

Alan C. Ellis Production Director

Lisa Martin Real Estate Advertising Ext. 6122

Eric O’Connell Harbor News Serenity Bishop Sports Editor Ext. 6141

Rita Christopher Senior Correspondent

Kristen Lennon Circulation Advertising Assistant

Aaron Rubin The Source Guilford Courier

Wesley Bunnell Chief of Photography

Editorial Staff

Fatal Involving Branford Woman to Go to Trial

By Greg Smith

Special to The Sound

A Bozrah man charged in connection with a hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a 96-year-old Branford woman has rejected a 24-year prison sentence.

Franklin Post, 36, appeared last month in Norwich Superior Court, where he opted for a trial over a sentence of 40 years, suspended after 24 years in prison and five years of probation.

The more than two-decade-long prison term was the offer from Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Adam B. Scott to settle not only the manslaughter charge associated with the fatal crash but all of Post’s numerous pending cases, which include everything from possession of narcotics with intent to sell to engaging an officer in pursuit.

Scott declined to comment beyond confirming the plea offer.

On June 9, 2024, state police said, Post was intoxicated when he drove a 2006 Audi A6 through a stop sign at a four-way intersection at Taylor Hill and Oakville roads in Griswold, slamming into the side of a GMC Acadia with three occupants. Charlotte DeGrado, a back seat passenger in the Acadia driven by her son-in-law, died from her injuries at Backus Hospital. DeGrado’s daughter was also taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries.

The driver of the Acadia, Daniel Colcord, told police he had stopped at the stop sign and was proceeding through the

intersection when his vehicle was hit with such force it went up on two wheels and nearly overturned, according to the police report.

Police said Post and two others, after removing drugs from the Audi, fled the crash on foot. Police said Post was discovered hiding behind an apartment complex off East Main Street in Jewett City. He was charged with second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, tampering with evidence and possession of narcotics with intent to sell, among other charges.

Police said Post was wearing a courtissued GPS monitor at the time of the crash but had disabled it. Records show Post with numerous past criminal convictions and an assortment of pending charges, including multiple felonies, from multiple arrests, mostly by Norwich police. Those pending charges include narcotics possession, drunken driving and multiple arrests for engaging an officer in pursuit.

Post, who has been in prison since June 10, 2024, remains held at Corrigan Correctional Institution in Montville on $1.8 million in combined bonds. His case is now on the trial list. A trial has not yet been scheduled. A representative from the law firm of Chinigo, Leone & Maruzo, which represents Post, did not immediately return a call seeking comment. g.smith@theday.com

Branford Elks Welcomes Applications for Scholarship

The Branford Elks Lodge is offering a $1,500 scholarship to a student who has been actively involved in service to the community. To be eligible, applicants must be Branford residents or members of the family of a Branford Elk in good standing and graduating from high school this calendar year. To apply, students need to submit a copy of their transcript, a letter of recommendation, and an essay describing what their involvement in their community has been. Transcripts should include their senior year courses taken. Letters of recommendation should be from an individual familiar with the work described in their essay. Recommendations from teachers describing academic achievement do not carry the weight of a recommendation from an individual with firsthand knowledge of their contributions to the community. Essays should be between 500 and 1,000 words in length. They should be well-written, succinct, and focused on their work in the community, not what they have accomplished in the classroom. Applications can be mailed to The Branford Elks Lodge #1939, 158 South Montowese Street, Branford, CT 06405 (Attention: Amy Lawler). The deadline for applications is Friday, April 10, For more information, email Amy Lawler at amyalisia@hotmail.com.

Contacting The Sound

As your hometown paper, The Sound 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.

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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.

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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 The Sound 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.

Barn Blaze Devastates Branford Farm

Continued from page 1

engulfed in flames. Firefighters initiated an exterior attack but were unable to enter the structure due to intense heat and heavy smoke.

The property owner, whose identity has not been released, was treated on scene and transported to Yale New Haven Hospital for further evaluation.

One Branford firefighter sustained burns to his hands and arms from radiant heat that penetrated his protective gear. He was treated at Yale New Haven Hospital Shoreline Medical Center and released. Fire officials said he will require follow-up care.

Despite bitter cold and icy conditions, crews were able to prevent the fire from spreading to an adjacent garage and nearby home.

Responding units included Branford Engines 1, 2, 4, 5, and 9; Ladder Truck 1; Car units 1, 2, 8, and 9; Medic 3; and Ambulance 2. Guilford Fire Department provided on-scene mutual aid, while East Haven Fire Department covered Branford stations during the incident.

Officials also thanked the Branford Police Department for traffic control and scene safety, and Emergency Telecommunicators for “steady coordination of resources while simultaneously managing other emergency incidents.”

Hatha Yoga Series

A beginner/intermediate-level hatha yoga series runs Tuesdays from 5:45 to 7 p.m. through Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Trinity Church Hall, 1009 Main Street, Branford. The sessions are led by certified yoga instructor Gina Macdonald-Page. The cost is $10 per session, with drop-in participants welcome. Proceeds benefit the Branford Community Dining Room. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat. For more information, call or text Gina at 203 710-6665.

Fox Field Farm is owned and operated by Tayler Chambers-Scussel. According to the farm’s website, it offers pony parties, riding lessons, homesteading classes, summer agricultural experiences, and mentorship programs.

The Chambers family — well known in Branford as the former owners of Shelly’s Garden Center on Main Street, which closed in 2023 — suffered what officials called “the heartbreaking loss of cherished animals.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time,” the department stated. “We extend our full support as they face yet another challenge.”

A GoFundMe fundraiser launched by neighbor Kasia Lussier had raised $80,203 toward its $110,000 goal as of 9 a.m. Feb. 2. “This is an unspeakable heartbreak,” Lussier wrote. “Nothing will bring the animals back, but our community support is needed to help them through this.”

In a later update, Lussier thanked donors, neighbors, friends, and firefighters for their support, adding, “RIP the beautiful animals… forever in our hearts.”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

For more more information about the GoFundMe, visit www.gofundme.com/f/ community-help-for-fox-field-farmsrecovery.

Community Lens: A Program for North Branford Residents

Totoket TV Channel 16 presents Community Lens, a monthly program with a panel discussion airing weeknights at 6:30 p.m. and available on YouTube (TotoketTV). This program informs and involves residents in North Branford town government, emphasizing transparency and encouraging voter participation in referendum votes. For more information, contact 203-859-1512 or communitylensinfo@gmail.com.

The best available cancer care is close to home. In fact, Smilow Cancer Hospital is conveniently located all across the region. So you can meet with our team of renowned cancer experts right away, develop a personalized treatment plan together, and have direct access to genetic testing, tumor pro ling, and clinical trials through our af liation with Yale Cancer Center, Connecticut’s only National Cancer Institutedesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Because at Smilow Cancer Hospital, we’re committed to treating you with the greatest of care. Smilow Cancer Hospital at Guilford

Gregory Zanieski, MD Surgical Oncology

Wajih Kidwai, MD

Susan Higgins, MD

Andrea Silber, MD

GriefShare Meetings Start February

GriefShare is a weekly faith-based bereavement support group that offers help, encouragement, and support after the death of a spouse, child, other family member, or friend. Sponsored by Christ Chapel of Madison, this support group meets on Sundays from noon to 2 p.m. The next session starts Sunday, Feb. 8, to provide support for the loss of a spouse. The regular GriefShare cycle will start Sunday, Feb. 15, and will run through early June. The weekly format includes supportive discussion about video content and a journaling workbook reinforcing each week’s topics. The workbook will be available to purchase at the meetings for a one-time fee of $20. The book for the loss of a spouse program is $12. All are welcome. The 13 sessions follow a logical progression from initial grief to the process of moving on and finding a “new normal.” If registered participants miss a session, they can view the video at griefshare.org. For more information or to register, call Sue Granniss at 860-913-1654 or specify “Madison, CT” at griefshare.org/findagroup.

Tax Relief for Veterans and Elderly or Totally Disabled Homeowners

Calling Volunteers for Branford Porchfest

The organizers of Porchfest are seeking local volunteers for Branford’s inaugural Porchfest event on Saturday, May 30. The event is in need of residents near the town center who are willing to donate their front porches and lawns to host musicians and audience members for a day of musical performances. Hosts will need to provide access to electrical outlets and bathrooms for the performers. The event will run from noon to 5 p.m., though hosting can be just a portion of that time. The event area centers on the town green. The rain date is Sunday, May 31. Volunteers are also needed throughout the event to serve as community ambassadors to help guide guests to the performance sites and to do cleanup after the event. For more information, email info@shorelineevents-ct.com.

The Town of North Branford Assessor's Office announces that applications for the elderly homeowner, totally disabled homeowner, and additional veteran programs are available in the Assessor’s Office through Friday, May 15. To qualify, applicants must be 65 by Dec. 31, 2025, or be considered totally disabled by the Social Security Administration. Income levels are as follows: for the state program, $46,300 for a single person or $56,500 for a married couple and for the local program, $60,000 if single or $70,000 if married. Applicants are required to bring their 2025 Federal Tax Return and 2025 Social Security Statement (1099). Applicants who do not file a return must provide proof of all forms of income, including, but not limited to, their 1099 statement, pension income, annuity income, and interest. No appointment is required. For more information, contact the Assessor’s Office at 203-484-6013 or ac@northbranfordct.gov.

Precious Bubbles

Story by Carol Andrecs

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S BAIT & TACKLE

Bubbles, a handsome 9-month-old gray tabby, was rescued on the property of a shoreline home with his two siblings. No mom was found and the kittens were scavenging for food until a caring person started to feed them, and a friend called Forgotten Felines to rescue the babies. Bubbles’ siblings were adopted together, and he is waiting anxiously for his turn. He is so sweet, playful, cuddly and snuggly, and would love a quiet home with another young cat. Can you give this precious kitten a loving home? Come meet Bubbles at our open house or apply to adopt him online at forgottenfelinesct.org.

Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines

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

Forgotten Felines is run entirely by dedicated volunteers with no paid staff. We are always in 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.

Come for Sunday Service

The Northford Community Church, 4 Old Post Road, offers weekly church service on Sunday at 10 a.m. All are welcome. For more information, call 203-484-0795 or visit northfordcongregational.church.

- North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated January 15, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is: Loren L. Curran, 359 Willow Road, Guilford, CT 06437

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated January 20, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is: Lynn Behrendt c/o KAREN A L

Photo by Genevieve Ray

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Ann C. Johnson (25-00430)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated January 22, 2026, ordered that all claims must be presented to the fiduciary at the address below. Failure to promptly present any such claim may result in the loss of rights to recover on such claim.

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Mary F. Johnson

c/o KATHY KIEFER PRIEST, DAVIS O’SULLIVAN & PRIEST, LLC, 59 ELM, SUITE 540, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510

LEGAL NOTICE - REVISED NOTICE OF ACTIONS

At the Regular meeting of the Branford Planning & Zoning Commission held on Thursday January 22, 2026 the following actions were taken:

1. Application PZ 26-1 Special Exception Modification located at 195 Cherry Hill Extension (lot 11) for an inground pool. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS.

2. Application PZ 25-13 Coastal Site Plan for the demo of two existing houses and the construction of a new single family located at 114 Limewood Avenue. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS.

3. Application PZ 25-18 Site Plan & Coastal Site Plan for the demo of the existing cottage and the construction of a new cottage located at 64 Lanphiers Cove Camp. APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS.

C. Andres, Chairperson F. Russo Secretary

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF BRANFORD BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405 Legal Notice

The Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on Tuesday February 17, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom technology to conduct Public Hearings on the following applications. Information regarding how to participate in the Public Hearings will be provided on the meeting Agenda that will be posted on the Town’s website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

Old Business:

ZBA 25-8 Richard Hackley (Applicant)

Phyllis Murphy (Owner)

(E08-000-015-00003 R3) 11 South Montowese Street

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.5 To allow a front setback of 10 feet 2 inches where 15 feet is required for a 40-foot addition at the back door of the existing original house, to serve as a mudroom.

New Business:

ZBA 26-1 Paul Greenbaum (Applicant & Owner) (E11-D11-004-00007 R3) 13 Fenway Road

Jim Sette Chairman

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 To allow a sideyard of 3 feet where 15 feet is required for an addition to a single family home.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT

Notice is given that the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission of the Town of Branford will hold a public hearing for the application listed below, at a regular meeting on February 12, 2026 at 7 PM to be held via Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84594914519, meeting ID: 84594914519, passcode: 035005) regarding the following Inland Wetlands Application for Regulated Activity:

- IW-25-6 │ 596, 612 & 616 East Main St │ construction of a rehabilitation hospital and associated driveways, storm drainage and utilities

Copies of the above application materials are available for public inspection in the Inland Wetlands office located in the Town Hall, 1019 Main St., Branford, CT. They are also available for download: https://branfordct. portal.opengov.com/records/502270. If you require assistance with accessing the remote meeting, please submit a written request to the Inland Wetland office no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting.

Peter Bassermann, Chairman

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Constance D. Butler (25-00449)

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Kimberly J. Battista

c/o DAVID V PARNOFF, SETTE & PARNOFF, PC, 2324 WHITNEY AVE., P.O. BOX 185366, HAMDEN, CT 06518

Town of Branford, CT

Representative Town Meeting Public Hearing- REVISED

Joining the CT Municipal Redevelopment Authority as a Member Municipality, February 11, 8:00 P.M. Joe Trapasso Community House, 4 Church Street, Branford, CT

WHEREAS, the Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority (the “Authority”), a body politic and corporate, constituting a public instrumentality and political subdivision of the State of Connecticut has been established pursuant to section 8-169ii of the Connecticut General Statutes (the “General Statutes”); and

WHEREAS, the Authority was created for the performance of an essential public and governmental function, including for the purposes set forth in section 8-169jj of the General Statutes to: (1) Stimulate economic and transit-oriented development, as defined in section 13b-79kk of the General Statutes, within Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority development districts; (2) encourage residential housing development within development districts; (3) manage facilities through contractual agreement or other legal instrument; (4) stimulate new investment within development districts and provide support for the creation of vibrant, multidimensional downtowns; (5) upon request of the legislative body of a member municipality, or the legislative bodies of the municipalities constituting a joint member entity, as applicable, in which a development district is located, work with such municipality or municipalities to assist in development and redevelopment efforts to stimulate the economy of such municipality or municipalities; (6) upon request of the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management and with the approval of the chief executive officer of a member municipality, or the chief executive officers of the municipalities constituting a joint member entity, as applicable, in which a development district is located, enter into an agreement to facilitate development or redevelopment within such development district; (7) encourage development and redevelopment of property within development districts; (8) engage residents of member municipalities, or municipalities constituting a joint member entity, as applicable, and other stakeholders in development and redevelopment efforts; (9) market and develop development districts as vibrant and multidimensional; and (10) provide financial support and technical assistance to municipalities to develop housing growth zones; and

WHEREAS, according to Section 8-169ll of the General Statutes, a municipality may, by certified resolution of the legislative body of the municipality, opt to join the Authority as a member municipality, provided such municipality holds a public hearing prior to any vote on such certified resolution; and

WHEREAS, the TOWN OF BRANFORD (the “TOWN”) held such a public hearing on February 11th pursuant to the Notice attached hereto; and

WHEREAS, the Representative Town Meeting has found that joining the Authority as a member municipality would support the TOWN’S efforts to stimulate economic development and foster the purposes outlined in Section 8-169jj within Branford and accordingly desires to join the Authority as a member municipality; and

WHEREAS; the Representative Town Meeting desires to further authorize the First Selectman to enter into a memorandum of agreement or other similar agreements with the Authority to create one or more development districts within TOWN to advance the purposes contained in Section 8-169jj.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT:

Section 1. The Representative Town Meeting hereby approves the TOWN joining the Authority as a member municipality.

Section 2. The First Selectmen is authorized to take or cause to be taken such actions, including, but not limited to, the negotiation and execution of any memorandum of agreement on behalf of the TOWN with the Authority and any other agreements, instruments and documents, that such official deems necessary, appropriate or desirable to implement the terms of any such memorandum of agreement and consummate the intention of this and the resolution.

Section 3. This Resolution shall be effective as of the date of approval.

Exploring Our Grief Journey: A Grief Support Group

The James Blackstone Memorial Library is holding an open peer support group centered around the legacy of a loved one. Led by AccentCare bereavement volunteer Cheryl Cole, the group will meet every Monday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the library, 758 Main Street, Branford. The event allows grieving individuals to join a group of listeners dedicated to honoring memories of loved ones and exploring the impact of loss on their lives. Registration is not required to attend the event. For more information, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318 or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

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.

Chad Adamik: A Pastor’s Journey of Faith

Continued from page 2

meeting the interim pastor, Maria Hammons. He soon became familiar with Tabor Lutheran Church and got involved with the congregation.

“After Pastor Maria had left, I was approached to be the interim pastor,” Chad said.

During this time of being the interim pastor at Tabor, Chad was splitting time between Connecticut and Ohio as he was frequently visiting his parents, taking care of them until they died in the spring of last year. This led to Chad, his husband, and Tabor Lutheran members discussing his future with the church.

“After having taken time for bereavement, I had a chance to talk to Tom, folks from Tabor, and we discerned that maybe God is moving us to do ministry together in a more permanent type of setting, and so that is when they voted to extend the call to me.”

“We are thrilled to have Pastor Chad join us as Senior Pastor at Tabor,” said Bertie Chuong, Tabor’s council president, in a statement. “He has served Tabor in an interim capacity for the past several years and has already done such wonderful work with our congregation and community. We can’t wait to see all that he brings to Tabor

now as our official Senior Pastor.”

Chad said he plans to lead with discernment and collaboration.

“My main goal is to pray to listen for the voice of God to lead me, whenever I have any ideas, the congregation has any ideas to really take time to pause and see if this is what we are led to do,” Chad said.

Reaching out and connecting with young families is another big goal as Tabor has supported preschool for the past 42 years through Tabor Preschool. Many members of the Branford community have been students in the past at Tabor Preschool.

“We are looking for ways to administer help to anyone raising young ones,” Chad said.

Going forward as the pastor for Tabor Lutheran Church, Chad hopes to be known in the community as an open and approachable figure who will listen to the stories of others.

To find more information about Pastor Adamik and Tabor Lutheran Church, visit the website http://www.taborchurch.net/, or their socials, Instagram: @taborlutheranchurch, and Facebook: Tabor Lutheran Church. Or call the church office at (203) 488-2541 with any questions.

New and Gently Used Books Needed

The Friends of the James Blackstone Library welcomes donations of new and gently used books of all kinds, as well as DVDs, CDs, and vinyl records. Donations can be placed in the bins behind the Blackstone Library or at 30 Harrison Avenue, Branford. Proceeds benefit the Blackstone Library and its enrichment activities and programs for children and adults in the community. For more information or to make arrangements for a large donation, email friends@blackstonelibrary.org.

Enjoy a Game of Duplicate Bridge

A duplicate bridge game is held every Friday at 12:30 p.m. at the Joseph Trapasso Community House, 46 Church Street, Branford. The game is for beginner to intermediate players. A partner is not necessary to play. For more information, contact Rick Seaburg at 203-915-5987 or tillerjock@gmail.com.

The Legacy Theatre Announces Classes

In partnership with the Branford Parks and Recreation and Shoreline Adult Education, The Legacy Theatre offers its performance classes for students across ages, ranging from toddlers to adults. Classes take place either at the Joseph Trapasso Community House, 46 Church Street, Branford, or at Branford High School, 185 East Main Street. For more information on the class offerings, call The Legacy Theatre at 203-315-1901 or visit legacytheatrect.org/classes.

Kill-a-Watt and Save Electricity

Kill-a-Watt meters are now available in both the Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Road, Northford, and the Atwater Memorial Library, 3 Old Post Road, Northford. The meters identify which items in a home are using the most amount of electricity and how much power is used per day, month, or year. For more information, contact the North Branford Department of Social Services at 484-6006 or socialservices@townof northbranfordct.com.

Goodwill Seeks Donations

Easter Seals Goodwill is seeking donations, particularly clothing for men, women, and children, as well as linens and household items, including small kitchen appliances, glasses, and dishware. Donations are accepted at 249 West Main Street, Branford. For more information, visit goodwill-branfordgwsne.business.site.

GED, ESOL, and Citizenship Options

Shoreline Adult Education, formerly known as ERACE, offers free academic programs for individuals seeking to earn their high school diploma/GED, practice their English language skills, or prepare for their U.S. citizenship test. These classes are available to individuals aged 17 years or older who live in Branford, North Branford, Guilford, or Clinton. Individuals outside the four-town region may register for a fee if space is available. Limited spots are available for residents of any town at no charge. Shoreline Adult Education also offers a variety of affordable enrichment classes, open to individuals of any town, including courses on computers, music and dance, cooking, career development, CPR and first aid, world languages, business and financial planning, fine arts, photography, and writing. For more information, call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

TOWN OF BRANFORD REPRESENTATIVE TOWN MEETING

LEGAL CALL AND AGENDA - AMENDED

FEBRUARY 11, 2026 at 8 pm

JOE TRAPASSO COMMUNITY HOUSE, 46 CHURCH ST

The meeting can also be seen for remote public viewing via BCTV (Comcast Channel 20) and Facebook Live. The agenda and meeting materials will be posted on the Town’s website (Branford-ct.gov)

Moderator Tracy Everson - Clerk Ray Ingraham - Majority Leader Dan Adelman - Minority Leader Victoria Verderame

District 1

Tricia Anderson

Lindsay Greenberg

Mark McCall

Shannen Sharkey

Frank Twohill Jr.

Alisa Waterman

District 2

Lola Brooks

Peter Hentschel

Chris Hynes

District 3

Iryna Bonenberger

Richard Jennings

Ralph Murray

District 4

Dan Adelman

Joanna Gorman

Sean Kelly

Gyanu Shrestha

Shahida Soomro

Victoria Verderame

District 5

Abigail Adams

Tracy Everson

John Hartwell

Alex Larsson

Ray Ingraham

District 6

Anthony Alfone

Nancy McCormack

Gina Popolizio

Chris Sullivan

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance

Roll Call

Approval of the Minutes of January 14, 2026 Meeting

Receipt of Communications, Reports of Committees and Citizen’s Petitions

District 7

Susan Dahill

Kevin Healy

Barbara Maresca

To consider, and if appropriate, that the RTM recommend approval of a request from the Director of Planning, Conservation and Development asking that this legislative body approve a resolution authorizing the Town of Branford to opt-in as a member municipality of the Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority (CMRA), pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes §8-169ll. (request and complete resolution attached). A full copy of the resolution is on file and available in the Town Clerk’s office.

The RTM will hold a Public Hearing regarding the proposed resolution to authorize the Town of Branford to opt-in as a member municipality of the Connecticut Municipal Redevelopment Authority (CMRA), pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes §8-169ll.

To consider, and if appropriate, approve the following request and resolution from the Board of Education: To increase the following revenue and expenditures of the Adult Education budget due to the addition of an Elementary Children’s Enrichment Program:

Resolved: that the RTM approve an increase in appropriations for the Fiscal Year 2026 Shoreline Adult Education Fund Budget from

to $114,990. This increase will be funded through additional tuition revenue and will support the implementation of an Elementary Children’s Enrichment Program.

To consider, and if appropriate, approve a transfer request for FY25 from the Fire Department:

rcsllc64@gmail.com

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Fun By The Numbers

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

Here’s How It Works:

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

Valley Courier

Sound Thursday, February 5, 2026

North Branford Girls Basketball Closes Regular Season with Tough Five-Game Stretch

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

As the girls’ basketball regular season winds down and the postseason approaches, the North Branford Thunderbirds are fine-tuning their production down the stretch of the season.

The Thunderbirds have recently reeled off six wins in the last seven outings, and are hoping to add more wins to their successful season so far. North Branford currently stands at 11-4 and has five games left.

The five opponents are some of the best teams in the conferences or possess a talented roster that can put up points, but to North Branford’s credit, they have already beaten four of the five remaining teams.

North Branford coach Sabrina LeMere said the team is building momentum with each game. She said they are taking the positives into each game, but also working on things they could do better next time out.

“Each game they’re going in, you can tell that they’re confident in their skills and their abilities,” LeMere said. “Our key players are definitely stepping up. On the court, they are being leaders, and everybody around wants to also follow them.”

LeMere highlighted the leadership of senior Emma Preiss. The captain has been one of the most consistent players all year long, and LeMere believes her play has inspired the rest of the team to bring that same effort and energy, especially on the defensive side.

However, the hope is that the rest of the team can also bring that effort and focus coming out of the halftime break, a moment in the game where their slow start has hindered their production at times.

“The energy that she brings on defense really impacts everybody around her. That’s been huge,” she said. “The third quarter is still a place that we need to work on. We’re doing a better job maintaining in the third, but it’s

at the point where I want us to start coming out of halftime and stepping on the gas. We’re not at that point yet.”

As North Branford prepares for this final stretch of the regular season, the mindset for the team is to continue to put forth their best effort. The team’s motto of the year is that regardless of the team, opponent or opposing players when North Branford plays their best, they are simply hard to beat.

The biggest game of the final stretch will be the last regular season game against Cromwell. North Branford has already defeated Haddam Killingworth, Morgan, Valley Regional, and East Hampton, earlier in the season, but fell to Cromwell 57-44, when the two teams met early in January.

“Cromwell is always a team that we play who we’ve always had great competition with,” LeMere said. “It’s a rivalry feel, so we have to have that extra focus in order to win this game because things can get a little more intense on the court, and we have to make sure we’re focusing on the game itself versus all those little outside details that could appear.”

LeMere added that the last five games are tough on paper, but it comes down to who plays the best that particular day and who maintains focus throughout the night.

“On paper, these teams that are coming up are definitely more challenging. However, we’ve seen them all before,” she said. “We have to go in with that same empty mind, that this is just another game. It’s anybody’s game. I truly believe that when we bring our best game, it’s very difficult to beat us.”

North Branford returns to the court Tuesday, Feb. 3, at home against Haddam Killingworth at 7 p.m. before taking a two-game road stretch on Friday, Feb. 6, at Morgan at 6 p.m. and at Valley Regional on Monday, Feb. 9, at 5:30 p.m.

Recent Snow Storm Reflects Long Island Sound History

While rebounding from the most recent winter storm and entering a near-record-breaking deep freeze, ice fishers scattered throughout Connecticut to set up on its frozen lakes and ponds. As expected, ice fishing conditions through mid-February are on track to be better than in the past few years as temperatures continue to be favorable. That’s for the inland outlook.

However, when was the last time anyone attempted to sink a line through the ice in Long Island Sound? We know marine

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

fish, such as striped bass and white perch, are caught during February, through the ice, in Connecticut tidal rivers and coves. Therefore, they most likely exercise their fins and tails when traveling from the Sound into the rivers. Right? Of course, the Sound can be unsafe for ice fishers due to undulating tides that can create cracks and fissures.

But to be on the safe side, it is best to obtain permission to fish the marinas and coves that are tucked away and much safer. Nevertheless, sometimes in the past when frost fish were running, along with cod and pollock, fishers either made the attempt or were successful ice fishing the ‘Big Hard Pond.’ After all, Long Island Sound does have a history of freezing over - and that includes the Connecticut shoreline from New Haven to Old Saybrook and beyond, including across to Long Island.

It froze solidly enough for travel or was covered in severe ice, most notably in 1857 and during the winter of 1917-1918. The 1857 freeze (“glade of ice”), however, was considered historic and rare, allowing people to walk completely across the Sound. Other, perhaps less extensive, severe freezes occurred in 1934 and 1976-1977. Nevertheless, it was the 1857 freeze that was known as the year when people walked between the Connecticut shore and Port Jefferson, NYprime fishing waters.

The ‘Great Freeze’, as it was known, was the 1917-1918 one, which caused significant issues for maritime travel with ice accumulation of 12-20 inches thick. Blocking ships and trapping submarines in massive ice cakes inside both New London and Groton harbors, the frozen Sound was broken apart by the United States Coast Guard (then Revenue Cutter Service) that employed vessels like the Ossipee and Apache, which had

See page 20

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Coach Sabrina LeMere congratulates Siena Podzikowski (10) as North Branford girls basketball defeated Westbrook on Jan. 23 at North Branford High School.

Branford Soccer Club Boys Deliver First Loss to North Haven; Girls Tie Wallingford

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

Another chilly Saturday in January means more youth soccer games at The Sportsplex in North Branford. Single-digit temperatures outside couldn’t stop the players and coaches from mobilizing and playing their matches all day.

Multiple towns have their club teams playing in these leagues, which cover a range of age groups. The youngest games are 9-year-old players, and go all the way through high school seniors by the end of the evening each weekend.

At 1 p.m., the seventh-grade girls (U13) Branford Soccer Club team took the field against a team from Wallingford. The first 10 minutes of the match featured back-andforth action, but neither team could break through the other’s defense. Then, Sabrina O’Connor launched a long strike into the opposing goal to get Branford on the board. The strike was her first goal of the season.

The remainder of the first half featured two goals scored by Wallingford, leaving Branford down 2-1 at the break.

Branford came out in the second half with increased efforts to attack the Wallingford goal. After a few minutes, their efforts paid off with Marianna Kennedy scoring to tie up the game.

Kennedy wasn’t finished, as she later scored again to give Branford the lead at 3-2.

Wallingford eventually scored to tie the game, but Branford continued to fight back. Felicia Sullivan scored couldn’t keep the lead for long.

Wallingford tied the game at 4-4 with an additional goal, resulting in a tie for both programs. The Branford girls remain in first place in the division after the game and carry a record of 6-0-1 going into their bye week. They will next suit up on Feb. 14 against Madison at 2 p.m.

The Branford boys team also played on Saturday, as

Recent Snow Storm Reflects Long Island Sound History

Continued from page 19

reinforced hulls for ice duties. The Ossipee was a 165 steel cutter assigned to New England in 1915. The Apache (formerly Galveston) was a steel-hulled cutter often used in the Chesapeake and the MidAtlantic. Additionally, the years 1934-1936 and 1976-1977 were recorded as years with potentially dangerous icing, particularly in coastal areas like Branford, where ice was thick enough to support cars and fuel trucks.

While central Long Island Sound rarely freezes solid today, digging deep into historical records, one will find several years where significant ice formation or complete freezes occurred along the Connecticut shoreline from New Haven to Old Saybrook. Major deep freezes include1698 when one reached as far as Fisher’s Island. In 1780, reports indicate the Sound was “completely frozen over,” allowing travelers to drive across the ice from Connecticut to Orient Point using a horse-drawn sleigh, carriage, or wagon in -20ºF temperatures.

And then there was 1875, when the Sound froze from Norwalk to Huntington Bay; 1976-1977 where the last 20th-century freeze packed ice for 2 months dragging buoys ashore and trapping oil tank-

ers; 2004-2005 when local marine authorities considered the Sound “completely frozen” in some sections; and finally 20142015 and 2018 when recent bitter winters caused significant shoreline freezing and “historically frigid” temperatures in New Haven - though the entire Sound did not freeze solid. So while chilling out and reflecting on these earlier deep freezes, our last winter storm does not seem that bad after all, does it?

On The Water:

Two days of bone-chilling temperatures and high snow totals were the partial results of the recent ‘massive winter event’ that battered the shoreline. Back-to-back single-digit temps, sub-zero wind chill, and 16.1” of snow were conditions not felt in recent years. A series of cold fronts pushed through the waters, and a strong area of low pressure then moved up into the eastern portions of the waters. Long Island Sound water temps dropped to 30ºF, small craft advisories warning mariners of 45 knot winds were common as angry seas to 6 feet blew freezing spray through poor visibility. Let’s see what Mr. Groundhog, the Great prognosticator, says. Does he see his shadow and predict 6 more weeks of winter or not?

Even under the unfulfilling threat of

the seventh, eighth, and ninth-grade team took the field at 3 p.m. The Branford boys play in the Underclassman High School division and faced an undefeated team from North Haven, which has only given up four goals the entire season.

The game was challenging for the Branford squad.

The gameplay was even for the first ten minutes of the match until eighth grader Martin Stefanov netted a goal for Branford to take an early lead. Minutes later, freshman Matt Boffa added a second tally for Branford for a 20 lead. North Haven pushed a goal past goalie Justin Perez after some solid passing to create their opportunity, ending the first half in 2-1 lead for Branford.

The boys team hoped to come out in the second half and extend their lead, and that’s exactly what happened. Very early on, defender Michael Fox struck from distance after making a run up the sideline to push the lead to 3 -1. Boffa then scored his second goal minutes later to give Branford some extra cushion on the scoreboard. Lastly, freshman Travis Meli locked the game down with two close-range goals to end the scoring and finalize the Branford win with a final score of 6-1.

The win brings Branford’s season record to 5-2, and delivered North Haven their first loss in league play. Next week, the Branford boys will face a team from Rush in a match that kicks off at 2 p.m.

Teams are forming for spring leagues with the Branford Soccer Club, and registration is open for February. If players would like to join, go to www.Branfordsoccer.org to register for a team.

another coastal winter storm and the Full Snow Moon, persistent cold weather this week should produce good ice fishing conditions - providing the wind behaves itself. Relentless freezing temperatures definitely built up the ice thickness throughout the state. Still, south of I-95 can be iffy even in these below-average temps. Most of the state - especially north of the ‘Demolition Turnpike’ - heading north to mid-state and toward the Massachusetts border, where double-digit snow topped the ice like a snow cone, incidental issues could crop up.

Uncleared parking lots and pathways could make pulling a sled full of gear through 15” of snow problematic. Without recent noticeable activity on the hard water, ‘safe’ solid ice could be difficult to determine. Windy conditions will only complicate matters, as will false flags and freezing ice lines. However, hitting the well-stocked lakes and ponds has produced some decent trout catches. Black crappie, yellow perch, and bluegills (some largemouth bass) have been more than cooperative, along with chain pickerel. Ice fishing beneath hard water that has had some penetrating warmth and overcame the shock of sudden freezing is the best bet. Grabbing a pair of ice awls and testing ice thickness with a ‘spud’ - working from

shore outward - is highly recommended before blindly stepping out.

Until the weather eased, winter stocking did get interrupted when heavy snow, interspersed with ice, clogged the program. Scheduled ice derbies also had to be postponed or cancelled. However, a mix of trout species from the Burlington hatchery, including colorful, broodstock Seeforellen brown trout from Kensington hatchery, is about to be or already has been stocked throughout the state. There will be plenty of fishing opportunities for anglers getting out in February since upwards of 50,000 trout have been projected to be stocked.

Ready for the spotlight? Email us your fishing photos to share with our shoreline and worldwide community. Through our comprehensive involvement, we live and breathe inland and marine fishing, delivering weekly columns that don’t try to ‘create’ the fisherman, but instead strive to inform and empower the one you already are.

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

Photo Submitted

Nihan Seferge lines up to take a free kick for Branford.

Branford Finishes with Several Top Six Performances at the Girls and Boys Conference Division Meet

By Serenity J. Bishop

Sports Editor

The Branford girls and boys indoor track teams competed in the Southern Connecticut Conference West Sectional meet this past week, and several athletes finished with impressive performances throughout the day.

For the girls team, Branford finished with a team score of 22 points and placed eighth overall out of 11 schools that were participating. The top performances included a runner-up in the 1000-meter race. Charlotte Kenney placed second in the race with a time of 3:15.34.

She also finished third in the 1600meter race with a time of 5:43.85.

In pole vault, Summer Sabatino finished fourth at 6’ 6.” Aaliya Latif ended the day with a ninth place finish in shot put with a throw of 27’ 2.” In the 600 meters, Phoebi Phouadara finished 11th with a time of 1:52.06, and Eva Ellis placed 15th, crossing the line at 1:58.83.

Marin Roussat finishied 12th in the 55 hurdles with a time of 11.21. Branford’s 4x200 relay consisted of Favour Nwagboli, Phoebi Phouadara, Jessica Adhikari, and Beulah Anigekwu. The placed fifth with a time of 2:01.21. The 4x400 group of Phoebi Phouadara, Nwagboli, Rossat, and Kenney also placed fifth with a time of 4:47.99. Lastly, in the 300 meters, Beulah finished at 49.34, Nwagboli came in at 49.39, Ava Glick crossed at 50.38, Kiara GuevaraCragwell timed in at 50.62, Jessica Adhikari clocked in at 50.64, and Penelope Phouadara finished at 50.97.

Branford coach Kevin Connell highlighted the impressive perforamnces of Kenney and Phoebi Phouadara.

“Kenney had a great night, running a good 1000 and coming back to compete strongly in the 1600 and run a great anchor leg in the 4x400. She is building

herself up for a very good championship season,” Connell said. “Freshman Phoebi Phouadara ran exceptionally well in both relays and continues to get closer to state qualifying in the 600. Aaliya Latif also had a good day at the shot put, she has worked hard and made the most of her opportunities.”

For the boys SCC division meet, Branford had several top six finished. In the shot put, Nick Marciano placed fifth with a throw of 42’2. The Spring Medlay Relay of Adam Brewer, Jordan Devlin, Mathias Verdosoto, and Eli Mayer also placed fifth with a time of 4:06.39.

Andrew Mayne placed sixth in the shot put with a throw of 38’11.

Several personal best performances included Jesse Clark’s 3:14.70 in the 1000 meters, Sawyer Gaudreau’s 5:17.44 in the 1600 meters, Luke Gagliardi, Nick Marciano, Charlie Budz, and Nolan Smestad in the 4x200 with a finish of 1:44.80.

The 4x400 team of Braden Andrus, Eli Mayer, Mathias Verdosoto, and Nolan Smestad finished with a time of 3:58.71. Bo Barrett also long jumped at 16’5.

Rich Biondi said he was pleased with the individual performances of his team.

“Overall, this was the team’s best performance of the season. Eighty percent of the athletes enjoyed their personal best performances,” Biondi said. “Nick Marciano’s throw of 42’2 was the best for the indoor team since 1999.”

The Branford coach said Marciano is hitting hist stride at the perfect time.

“Nick is peaking at the perfect time in the shot and in his sprinting events,” Biondi said. “It was exciting to see the 4x200 Relay team qualify for states. Charlie Budz, a team captain, is the leader of that group. This winter Charlie has been a vocal leader and a leader by example. His work ethic is second to none, and he is a young man with a bright future.”

Schedules

BRANFORD

Feb. 5 to Feb. 11

Friday, Feb. 6: vs. Shelton at 7 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 9: at Jonathan Law at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 12: at Amity at 7 p.m.

Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball

Friday, Feb. 6: at Sacred Heart Academy at 7 p.m Tuesday, Feb. 10: vs. Guilford at 6 p.m.

NORTH BRANFORD

Friday, Feb.

Feb.

Boys’ Basketball Girls’ Basketball

Feb.

Madison Hoop Dreams to Hold Camp Over February Break

Madison Hoop Dreams has arranged for the use of the Robert H. Brown School, located at 890 Durham Road in Madison, for their co-ed February vacation camps on Feb. 16-17.

The goal of the organization is to help each camper improve their basketball skills and deepen their enjoyment of the game. Madison Hoops Dreams also recognizes the importance of providing parents with a structured, well•supervised, and fun environment that promotes good sportsmanship and positive social interaction. The camp is open to players in grades 3–8, and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Space is limited to 60 campers, and the camp typically draws participants from more than 15 towns in the surrounding area.

Each day begins with an hour of skill development, followed by competitive basketball games for the remainder of the day. During games, coaches provide instruction to help each player improve their understanding of the game. This is an excellent opportunity for all players to sharpen their skills.

Early registration is encouraged.

The cost is $60 per day for each six•hour

camp. To encourage teammates to attend together, the organization offers the following team discounts: Three to four teammates pay $55 per player per day, or five or more teammates pay $50 per player per day.

They are also offering a family discount for households attending a total of four days of camp. Two siblings attending two days pay $55 per player per day. Three or more siblings attending two days pay $50 per player per day.

To register, parents can text coach Bill Barker at (203) 494•6905 with the names of the teammates attending. Madison Hoop Dreams will place teammates on the same team whenever possible, though trades may be needed to balance competition.

Please select whichever discount—team or family—provides the greatest benefit. Financial assistance is available upon request. For more information and to register, visit www.madisonhoopdreams.com. Any additional questions or need financial assistance, please call or text coach Barker or email at wab6933@gmail. com.Hoop Dreams.

Celebrating the Creative Spirit of LAA Artists An Exhibition in Five Acts:

The Lyme Art Association (LAA) welcomes the public to its sky-lit galleries this spring for , a show displaying the diversity of artistic styles of its talented membership.

Each juried show in looks at the world through a different lens: , , , , and celebrates the ever-changing landscapes that surround people. Artists’ pieces express humanity’s connection to place, and explore how land shapes identity, memory, and belonging.

The animal world has long inspired creativity, symbolism, and storytelling. In , artists explore people’s relationship with animals as companions, muses, and metaphors by creating artwork that captures the beauty, spirit, and complexity of the animals that share the world inhabited by humans.

The still life tradition has endured for centuries, offering artists a way to find meaning in the quiet arrangement and beauty of everyday objects. In , artists reimagine this timeless genre through classical interpretation, contemporary experimentation, or symbolic storytelling.

Abstraction opens a space for artists to move beyond representation by exploring form, color, line, and gesture as expressions in themselves. From pure non-objectivity to works that balance between the recognizable and the abstract, artworks in push boundaries, distill ideas, and experiment with visual language while celebrating the power of art to evoke emotion, energy, and imagination.

In , artists explore portraiture and figurative work in all its forms from realistic depictions to expressive interpretations. This exhibition examines how artists—through emotion, gesture, and presence—capture humanity, identity, and the stories written on the body and face.

is on view from Friday, Feb. 27, through Friday, April 10. The opening reception takes place Sunday, March 1, from 2 to 4 p.m.

About the Lyme Art Association

Founded in 1914 by the American Impressionists, the Lyme Art Association continues the tradition of exhibiting and selling representational artwork as well as

offering art instruction and public programs for the community. The LAA is located at 90 Lyme Street in Old Lyme, in an iconic 1921 building designed by renowned architect Charles Adams Platt and listed on the National Register of His-

toric Places. Admission is free. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, visit www.lymeartassociation.org or call 860-434-7802.

Press Release from the Lyme Art Association

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association , pastel, by Elaine Juska Joseph Plowman

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association , bronze, by Josie Campbell Dellenbaugh Summer Dog , oil and cold wax, by Ed Arribas Autumn Reflections

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association

Photo courtesy of the Lyme Art Association , oil, by Jennifer Rand The Great Pumpkin , acrylic, by Andy M. Sachs Future Teachers

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

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

Mental Health Break

: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Branford Green. Features the East Shore Health District (ESHD) mobile public health clinic van which will be on-site and ESHD staff who will be available to discuss physical and mental well-being, self-care strategies, and more. Includes free hot cocoa, resources, and community referrals. For info, call ESHD at 203-481-4233 or visit esdhd.org.

Art with Kristin: Van Gogh Watercolors

: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by local artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. For children ages 5 to 8. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Pizza: A Love Story Screening and Exhibit Tour

Pronounced Ah-Beetz

Pizza: A Love Story

5:30 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Includes a tour of the exhibit with co-curator Jason Bischoff-Wurstle, followed by a 6 p.m. screening of and a Q&A with filmmaker Gorman Bechard and co-producers Dean Falcone and Colin M. Caplan. Free with museum admission. For info or to register, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

Lab

: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For ages 6 to 12. Participants will learn about states of matter and will complete a slime lab. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit nbranfordlibraries.org.

National Theatre Live in HD Encore:

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

Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley

Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the Chester Public Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/chesterctlibrary.

Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley

Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the Essex Library through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit libraryc.org/essexlib.

Swashbuckling Heroines and High Seas Adventures with Novelist Vanessa Riley

Fire Sword and Sea: A Novel

: 7 p.m. Online event. Book: . Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries.

Shoreline Sailing Club Event

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

Rethinking Conservation “Success”: Mitigating the Climate Crisis While Benefiting Biodiversity and People

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Emily Feng, a graduate student in ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Connecticut. Part of the 2026 Young, Gifted, and Wild About Birds series. Hosted by the Connecticut Audubon Society. Cost: $9 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Audubon Society conservation programs. For info or to register, visit ctaudubon.org/2026.

FRIDAY,

FEB. 6

Shoreline Village Walking Group

: 1 to 2 p.m. Foote Memorial Park, 19 Melrose Ave., Branford. Meet at the parking lot. Features a walk on a flat, paved trail. Dress according to the weather and wear good sturdy shoes. Inclement weather cancels. Sponsored by Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info or to register, contact SVCT at 203-747-5939 or sylvia@shorelinevillagect.org, or visit shorelinevillagect.org.

First Friday Stroll

: 5 to 8 p.m. Main Street, Chester. Hosted by the merchants of Chester. Features a stroll on Main Street that showcases new art exhibitions at galleries, seasonal menus at restaurants, and shopping specials. Includes traditional and original Irish, Scottish and American fiddle tunes by Paddy Whack, and anecdotal tales about the paintings at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St. For info, visit nilssonstudio.com.

Winter Jams for Camp Fundraiser Concert

: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Chester Meetinghouse, 4 Liberty St. Doors open at 5 p.m. Features performances by Someone You Can XRay, Shorebreak, and The Gleeful Conspiracy. Suggested donation: $10 individual, $20 family. Proceeds benefit the Chester Park & Rec summer camp funds. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct.

Winter Concert by Guilford High School (GHS) Music Department

: 7 p.m. Guilford High School Performing Arts Center, 605 New England Rd. Features the GHS

Calendar for the Week of February 5, 2026

music department including voices, wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, symphony orchestra, and the A.W. Cox Howlers. Includes a silent auction of art-related items. No tickets needed; goodwill donations appreciated. Proceeds benefit the Guilford Meals on Wheels. For info, call Christi Burton at 203-453-8359.

Concert by Laurel Canyon Band (Tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young)

: 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.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Includes a bunny scavenger hunt (no registration required) and story time with craft featuring Snow by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace and Bunny Slopes by Claudia Rueda (10:30 to 11:30 a.m., registration required). For info or to register, call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. Features all-day drop-in crafts and a performance by Mystic Paper Beasts Theater at 2 p.m. No registration required. For info, call 203-4888702 or visit wwml.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day

: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features a Pokémon party, crafts, snacks, games, and a terrarium gym project. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. No registration. While supplies last. For info, call 860-3953184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

River Tales

SATURDAY, FEB. 7 Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring

: Two sessions: 11 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m. Connecticut River Museum (CRM), 67 Main St., Essex. For children ages 4 and up and their caregivers. Features a story, a craft activity, and more. Book: by Kenard Pak. Tickets: $3 per learner, free for members. Museum admission is not included with the ticket purchase. For info or reservations (required), call 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Madison Chocolate Festival at the Kindness Café

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Includes a café with lunch and chocolate desserts, a bake sale, cookie walk, music, silent auction, gift basket raffle, and kindness open-mic. Proceeds benefit the church’s weekly community breakfast. Part of Madison Kindness Week. For info, email kevinhkane@yahoo.com.(

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Slime

Hamlet

Two Connecticut Theaters Start 2026 With New Space, New Leadership; Marks 10th Year Anastasia

By Karen Isaacs

Columnist

Daily Routines

: TheaterWorks Hartford’s next offering, , explores how our daily routines can lead to friendships and the sharing of secrets. The show—which is billed as “funning, surprising, and moving”—is set in a diner in upstate New York. The show runs Wednesday, Feb. 12, through Sunday, March 15. Artistic Director Rob Ruggiero directs the three-person cast. Tickets are available at TWHartford.org

Aisle ON THE

The Counter director, and chair of the University of Cincinnati’s Musical Theatre program.

Braving the Cold

: State-elected officials, as well as Ivoryton Playhouse staff and supporters, braved the cold on Thursday, Jan. 15, for an official ground-breaking ceremony for the new Sally & George Mayer Rehearsal Studio. The building will also serve as storage. The event marked the kick-off of a $1.5 million capital campaign to support the facility and to fund upgrades to the historic theater building.

New Leadership

: As Legacy Theatre in Branford begins its sixth year, it will do so under new artistic leadership. Keely Baisden Knudsen, co-founder and executive artistic director of the theater, is stepping down. Eric Santagata has been named the new artistic director. Santagata has an impressive resume as an actor,

Continued from page 24

: Peter Jacobson will star as Willie Loman in Hartford Stage’s production of the Arthur Miller classic, . Jacobson, who has extensive stage credits, is best known for his role as Dr. Christopher Taub on the TV series . The show runs Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 29. is considered a classic of American theater. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org.

Death of a Salesman House

Death of a Salesman

News from the Terris

: Goodspeed has announced that its Terris Theatre in Chester will be dark for 2026. The theater said that despite successful runs of two new musicals in 2025, the management team needs to consider how the theater will operate given the new realities of costs and audience preferences. The Terris specializes in minimally staged productions of

Valentine Bouquets for Teens and Adults with Special Needs Parent/Child Together: Valentine's Day Love Box Workshop

: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For ages 16 and older. Participants will create a Valentine bouquet using provided supplies. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

: Noon to 2 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Cost: $27 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $25 is payable with the tuition. Tuition and material fee are per person. Reduced tuition rates on youth classes requires family level membership. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-4535947.

Curator Tour

Invitation to Engage: 60 Years of Long Wharf Theatre & Beyond

: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Presented by Jessica Durdock Moreno, director of artistic planning at Long Wharf Theatre. The tour highlights the new exhibition, . For info, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

9 to 5: The Story of a Movement

5: The Story of a Movement

: 2 p.m. New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. Features the screening of followed by discussion with Ellen Cassedy, co-founder of the 9 to 5 movement. Presented with the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New

9 to

Valentine Card Party for Kids

About Time

new musicals. Recently, the revue , which debuted at the Terris last spring, announced it will open off-Broadway on Friday, Feb. 27. It also had a performance at 54 Below.

Celebrating an Anniversary

: Hart-

Anastasia

ford Stage is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the world premiere of the musical with a fundraising event featuring Christy Altomare, who originated the title role, and director Darko Tresnjak (former artistic director of the theater). Additional special guests will be announced. The show began its journey at Hartford Stage, then had a successful run on Broadway, and later, productions around the world. The event on Tuesday, March 10, features performances from the show and behind-the-scenes stories. A champagne-and-dessert reception follows the event. Tickets are available at HartfordStage.org.

Sharon Playhouse

from Away

Prestigious Award

out more at SharonPlayhouse.org. : Guildford’s own, Will Aronson and Hue Park, who won Tonys for their musical , have received the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award. The award is given to “promising composers of musical theatre who have made a significant contribution to American music culture.” Prior recipients include Lin-Manuel Miranda, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul.

NYC Notes

Swingtime Canteen 42nd Street Come

: A sign that spring will come is the 2026 season announcement from Sharon Playhouse. The season opens with from June 19 to July 5, followed by from July 25 to Aug. 9, and ending with from Sept. 11 to Sept. 27. In addition, there are Youth Stage presentations and one-night events. You can find

Haven. Free with museum admission. For info or to register, contact 203-562-4183, ext. 120 or matockarshewsky@newhavenmuseum.org, or visit newhavenmuseum.org.

: 2:30 to 4 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Cost: $20.25 for members, $22.50 for nonmembers. Materials fee of $15 is payable with the tuition. Reduced tuition rates on youth classes requires family level membership. To register, visit guilfordartcenter.org. For info, call 203-453-5947.

A Tribute to U2

: 5 p.m. Water's Edge Resort & Spa, 1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. Performed by The Joshua Tree. Tickets: $74 per person, includes a buffet dinner. Guests purchasing less than 10 tickets will be seated at tables with other guests. For info or reservations, call 860-399-5901 or visit watersedgeresortandspa.com/events.

The Beatitudes as Interpreted by St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Pier Giorgio Frassati

: 7 p.m. Saint Catherine Center, Monastery of Our Lady of Grace, 11 Race Hill Rd., North Guilford. Part of the "Evening with a Friar" series. Presented by Fr. John Mark Solitario. Hosted by the Aquinas Guild. To enroll in the guild, visit dominicannuns.org/aquinas-guild. For info or to register for the event, visit dominicannuns.org/posts.

Maybe Happy Ending Kitchen Chess Just in Time

Hell’s

: Alicia Keys’ musical, , will close on Feb. 22. The show opened in 2024; when it closes, it will have played nearly 800 performances. The revival of has extended its run to June 3, which may improve its chances for Tony Award victories as more voters will have a chance to see the show. Multiple Tony nominee Jeremy Jordan will take over for Tony winner Jonathan Groff as Bobby Darin in

Karen Isaacs is an East Haven resident.

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

Sweet Saturday Nights: Brian May

: 7 to 9 p.m. Nightingale’s Acoustic Cafe, 68 Lyme St., Old Lyme. Tickets: $10. Service fees apply. Refreshments are available for purchase. For info or tickets, visit musicnowfoundation.org/events.

Concert by Bobby Rush

: 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.

SUNDAY, FEB. 8

Inaugural Soup-er Bowl Chili

: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center (GAC), 411 Church St. Pickup of preordered food and bowls only. The event is an extension of GAC's Soup for Good event and features a choice of a handmade bowl made by GAC pottery instructors and students, a serving of homemade chili (meat or vegetarian), a bag of Fritos for topping, and a can of beer or seltzer. Tickets: $40. Proceeds benefit GAC arts education and outreach programs and the Guilford Food Bank. For info, visit guilfordartcenter.org.

See page 27

Playing Willie Loman

Guilford Art Center Opens Summer Youth Program Registration Early

Guilford Art Center (GAC) has opened registration for its summer youth program early this year to allow families more time to plan for their children this summer.

Designed for ages 5 to 12, GAC’s art camp program offers art classes in painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, mixed media, sewing, and more. All classes are taught by experienced, professional teaching artists in a supportive and inspiring environment.

The program will run in weekly half-day or full-day sessions from Monday, June 22, through Friday, Aug. 21.

“We know families are juggling a lot when it comes to summer planning,” said GAC Executive Director Maureen Belden. “By opening summer youth program registration earlier this year, we wanted to give parents more time to review our offerings, consider what’s the best fit for their child, and feel confident getting their summer camp plans in place—rather than waiting until later in the spring. With a wide range of art experiences and many new instructors this year, there’s something to spark every child’s creativity.”

To make the program more accessible for working parents and caregivers, Guilford Art Center offers Bridge Care—supervised care between the morning and after session, creating a more flexible full-day option. Whether your child is enrolled in a morning or afternoon camp, Bridge Care ensures they’re cared for in a safe, welcoming space with creative materials and gentle guidance.

Financial aid is available and open to everyone.

“We never want cost to be a barrier,” says Belden. “Thanks to generous supporters and community partners, we’re able to offer

tuition assistance for families who need it. It’s part of our mission to make the arts truly accessible to all.”

The financial aid application process is simple and confidential, and families are encouraged to apply early as funds are limited. Class registration remains open through summer.

For more information or to enroll or apply for financial aid, call 203-453-5947 or visit www.guilfordartcenter.org.

Program Highlights

Weekly camps from June 22 trough Aug. 21

Options in drawing, ceramics,

comics, metals, sewing, painting, stained glass, mixed media, beading, and more

Sessions grouped by age for appropriate skill-building

Small class sizes for personal attention

About Guilford Art Center

Guilford Art Center is a nonprofit organization that serves the shoreline community and beyond with classes, exhibitions, and events that foster a love and understanding of the visual arts. Through its programs, GAC nurtures individual creativity and promotes the cultural vitality of the region.

Press Release from the Guilford Art Center

Photo courtesy of the Guilford Art Center

Working 9 to 5: New Haven Museum Recalls a Movement

Fifty years ago, Ellen Cassedy co-founded and led the 9 to 5 movement of working women that began in Boston. On Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m., Cassedy will be at the New Haven Museum (NHM) for a screening of the documentary film, by the Academy Award-winning team Julia Reichert and Steven Bognar, in which she appears. Attendance is free with paid museum admission.

9to5: The Story of a Movement

Working 9 to 5: A Women’s Movement, A Labor Union, and the Iconic Movie

Cassedy is the author of (foreword by Jane Fonda) and several other books. The film tells the story of how women workers began in a circle talking about their jobs and went on to build a nationwide movement that won rights and respect for millions of women workers—and inspired a hit movie and an enduring song along the way. After the film, audience members will be invited to share their thoughts and questions about women and work.

Presented in partnership with the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven (JHSGNH), the screening is part of the 2026 Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Film Series which was designed to examine the issues faced by women as clerical work-

ers, factory workers, and teachers. The series previews the fourth annual Judith Ann Schiff Women’s History Program at NHM on Sunday, March 1, which will focus on Jewish women involved in organizing unions for social workers, New Haven Public School teachers, and Yale University clerical and technical workers in the 20th century.

Cassedy became interested in women’s rights as an office worker in the early 1970s.

“Office workers were influenced by the civil rights and women’s movements and eager to win our rights,” she says. “We won a lot, but there’s a long way to go. Today’s working people struggle to make ends meet and care for their families.”

She adds that she hopes to inspire others to speak up.

For more information or to register for the event, visit newhavenmuseum.org.

About the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven

The Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven began in the attic and basement of Harvey N. Ladin’s Central Avenue home. After years of collecting pictures and memorabilia about Jewish life in New Haven, Ladin helped to organize and found the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven in 1976. He became its first president. Since its origin, the society has been collecting and cataloging the Greater New

Haven Jewish community’s eventful past, publicizing its history, and preserving its heritage for future generations. The JHSGNH is located in the Ethnic Heritage Center, on the campus of Southern Connecticut State University, 270 Fitch Street, New Haven. For more information, call 203-392-6125 or visit jewishhistorynh.org.

About the New Haven Museum

The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving, and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven

Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located in downtown New Haven at 114 Whitney Avenue, the museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs, and outreach. As a designated Blue Star Museum, the New Haven Museum offers the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve, free admission from Memorial Day through Labor Day. For more information, call 203-562-4183 or visit newhavenmuseum.org or Facebook.com/ NewHavenMuseum.

Continued from page 25

: 2 to 3 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library, 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Stony Creek. All supplies provided. Limited spots. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org.

Christianity, Judaism, and Islam

: 2 to 4 p.m. Mercy by the Sea Retreat and Conference Center, 167 Neck Rd., Madison. First in a three-part series called "To Love Your Neighbor, Know Your Neighbor,” featuring panel discussions surrounding nine faith traditions. Co-hosted by Mercy by the Sea and the Connecticut Council for Interreligious Understanding (CCIU). Free admission. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-0401, ext. 114, or visit mercybythesea.com.

MONDAY, FEB. 9

Pottery Painting with Fired Up!

: 6 to 8 p.m. Fired Up

Studio, 1060 Main St., Branford. Cost: $39. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

TUESDAY, FEB. 10

Little Makers: Groundhog Day Craft

: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For ages 2 to 6. For info or to register (required), call 203-484-0469 or visit nbranfordlibraries.org.

Safe at Home

: 2:30 to 4 p.m. Old Saybrook Middle School, 60 Sheffield St. Presented by Heather McNeil and Jessica Wood of the OSYFS. For grades 4 through 6. Students receive safety training that will help them be prepared to stay at home alone, with parent permission/knowledge. Only a student’s parents can make the decision that their youth is ready to stay at home alone

based on age, maturity, skills, experience, and confidence level. Cost: $10. For info or to register, contact 860510-5042 or heather.mcneil@oldsaybrookct.gov.

Pruning Woody Plants in the Landscape:

Noon to 2 p.m. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Hosted by Leete’s Island Garden Club. Felicia Millett, licensed arborist and CAES plant diagnostician, presents on pruning objectives, techniques, tools, and timing. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 203-453-0780 or email kayclaiborn@comcast.net.

Make a Heart-Felt Gift with Mrs. Fig

: 3 to 4 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For elementary-age students. Participants will craft a Valentine-themed gift. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Press Release from the New Haven Museum

Photo by Brad Fowler

Ellen Cassedy

Photo by Steve Cagan

Women workers demonstrate for their rights.

Photo courtesy of Karen Nussbaum

Karen Nussbaum , co-founder of 9to5, marches for equal pay for women.

Tote Bag Decorating Workshop

: 3:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For ages 12 to 18. Participants plan programs, displays, and collections. Service credit available. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

4:30 to 5:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by local artist and educator Kristin Cafferty. For children ages 8 to 12. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $35 plus a $20 materials fee to cover all supplies (exact change requested). Bring two dish towels, a container to bring home your cake, and an (optional) apron. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org. :

6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features Revolutionary-era songs and hymns performed by tenor and harpsichordist Richard Franklin Donohue. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. Free and open to all. Registration suggested. For info, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Features bedtime stories by Jan Brett read by Mrs. Fig, with puppets and sound effects. Familyfriendly. For info or to register, call 860663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

: 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. For info, call 860-434-1961 or visit danstevens.net or musicnowfoundation.org/events.

From Liberty to Legacy: Exploring American Ideals in and 1776 Hamilton:

6:30 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St., Guilford. Features video clips and discussion with performer and storyteller Michael Langlois on how the two musicals portray the nation’s founding from different perspectives. Free. Registration required. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Witness the Wild: Where Eagles Fly

Press Release from The Audubon Shop

Winter’s cold brings dozens of bald eagles down the Connecticut River from Canada in search of ice-free fishing.

Last year, over 50 eagles wintered on the lower Connecticut River. Its 6- to 8-foot wingspan makes the bald eagle the largest predator in North America. The comeback of the bald eagle is an ecological success story.

On Saturdays, Feb. 14 and Feb. 21, The Audubon Shop in Madison will present its 37th annual eagle watches on the Connecticut River. Leader Jerry Connolly of

The Audubon Shop will help participants spot eagles from a variety of locations on this land-based trip along the shore of the river and will discuss the bird’s natural history. A variety of wintering birds will be seen. Binoculars are recommended and available to rent.

Tickets cost $33, which includes a soup and sandwich lunch at Otter Cove Restaurant in Old Saybrook.

Preregistration and prepayment are required. To register, call 203-245-9056.

For more information, visit the audubonshop.com/events.

Peaceful Pause

: 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Cost: $44. Bring a yoga mat, towel, blanket, and anything needed for a comfortable breathwork experience. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Adult and Pediatric First Aid Awareness Training

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11

Live Theater:

The Day the Crayons Quit

: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. No certification is available with this class. Cost: $25. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org. : 10:30 to 11 a.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Presented by Grove School Children's Theater Troupe. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Junior Chefs: Indoor S’mores

: 2 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For ages 5 to 12. Children ages 5 to 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants will learn simple steps to make s’mores without a campfire. Free. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Connecticut and the Road to Victory at Yorktown

: 3 to 4 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Killingworth resident Kelvin Cole presents a talk and slideshow on Connecticut’s role in the Revolutionary War. For info or to register, call 860-6632000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Acoustic Artists Storyteller Series: Barbara Harvey

: 6 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Features stories and songs paired with pictures and visuals. For participants of all ages. For info or to register, visit actonlibrary.org/events.

Madison Kindness Week: Card Angels Pop-up Meeting

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Led by the Card Angels, a group of volunteers who make homemade cards with happy messages to send to those in a rehabilitation facility or cancer treatment center. All materials provided. No registration required. For info, call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

Photo by Matthew Male

YA Library Advisory Board Planning Meeting

Art with Kristin: Flamingo Canvas

Chocolate Layer Cake with Frosting

What a Glorious Crash They Made

Pajama Story Time

Pickin’ Party

Black Inventors Who Made the Stuff Around Us

In an enlightening presentation about the contributions of Black innovators who helped shape history, Ainissa Ramirez will share inventions that were created by Black inventors—from the light bulb to the mailbox to the ice cream scoop—during her presentation, “Black Inventors Who Made the Stuff Around Us.”

The event, which takes place at the New Haven Museum at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, is part of the NH250 series to complement America’s semiquincentennial celebration. The presentation is free with regular museum admission and will be preceded by a reception at 5:30 p.m. From Jim West’s microphone to mathematician Gladys West’s pioneering work in creating GPS, Ramirez will feature the life and work of Black innovators who made things we use every day. She will also share the work and life of New Haven’s own Sarah Boone (1832-1904), who was awarded one of the first U.S. patents given to an African American woman for her improvements to the ironing board. Her invention made it possible to iron corsets and other tight-fitting clothing that were in fashion at the time. Boone worked as a

dressmaker and lived at 30 Winter Street in New Haven and is buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

Ainissa Ramirez is a scientist and writer from New Haven interested in uncovering the little-known innovators who contributed to the everyday lives of people. She received her bachelor’s degree from Brown University and her doctorate from Stanford, both in materials science and engineering. She began her career as a scientist at Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey, and later joined the faculty at Yale University. She wrote the awardwinning book, , as well as the children’s book,

The Alchemy of Us Spark: Jim West’s Electrifying Adventures in Creating the Microphone

This event is part of NH250, an ongoing series of programming developed by New Haven Museum to complement “America 250.” Culminating with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the series will highlight inclusive, local, and lesser-known stories, connecting past and present.

Continued from page 28

Fuel Your Body: Master Meal Planning for Inflammation Relief

: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Via Zoom or Google Meet. Cost: $30. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203488-5693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Desserts that Dazzle

: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Branford High School, 185 E. Main St. Features a hands-on class to make a three-layer almond tart and a French chocolate dessert. All ingredients and equipment provided. Cost: $30 plus a $30 materials fee to cover all supplies (exact change requested). No experience needed. Participants take home what they make. Sponsored by Shoreline Adult Education. For info or to register (required), call 203-4885693 or visit shorelineadulted.org.

Guilford Job Network Meet

: 7 to

8:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Includes guest speakers. All job seekers welcome. For info or to register and receive the Zoom link, contact Russ Allen at 203-457-0121 or RussAllen2@aolcom.

Concert by The Young Dubliners

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.

THURSDAY, FEB. 12

Hollywood Gems:

The Three Musketeers

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860-5100453 or visit thekate.org.

Tips for Managing Loneliness

: 1 p.m.

Deep River Public Library, 150 Main St. Presented by Wendy Hurwitz. Covers strategies for managing isolation and loneliness followed by a discussion with audience questions. Registration is required. For info or to register, call 860526-6039 or visit deepriverlibrary.libcal.com.

2026 Internship and Career Fair

: 1 to

4 p.m. 101 College St., New Haven. Free admission. Features networking opportunities with more than 30 organizations. Hosted by the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. For info, visit gnhcc.com/events.

Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic with Lindsey Stewart

: 2 p.m. Online event. Book:

The Conjuring of America: Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black

Women’s Magic

. Hosted by the North Branford Libraries through a partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium. For info or to register (required), visit libraryc.org/nbranfordlibraries.

Gracias a la Vida Concert

: 5:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Features a concert by the Entwyned Early Music group, presenting

Gracias a la Vida: Spanish and Latin Songs of Life and Romance.

Free and open to the public. Space is limited; registration is suggested. For info or to register, visit youressexlibrary.org or call the library at 860-767-1560.

Growing Annuals From Seeds

: 6 p.m.

Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Covers plant selections, materials needed, and scheduling, including which annuals are suitable to start indoors. Hosted by the Essex Library in collaboration with the Essex Garden Club. For info or to register, call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Drive-In Movie Night

: 6 to 6:45 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. Children decorate cardboard cars and watch a short film. Smartfood popcorn provided. For info or to register, call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Guilford Poets Guild: Patricia Cleary Miller

Starting a Swan Dive Can You Smell the Rain? Warmer Than Yesterday.

: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features an open mic followed by a reading from Patricia Cleary Miller, author of , , and Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Bird Migration in Offshore Wind Energy Areas: Informing Collision Risk and Mitigation

: 7 p.m. Webinar. Presented by Shannon Curley, a migration ecologist studying offshore bird movements using weather surveillance radar to help inform wind energy development. Part of the 2026 Young, Gifted, and Wild About Birds series. Hosted by the Connecticut Audubon Society. Cost: $9 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Proceeds benefit the Connecticut Audubon Society conservation programs. For info or to register, visit ctaudubon.org/2026.

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.

About Ainissa Ramirez

About NH250

Photo by Duncan Davidson

Ainissa Ramirez

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

15 Briarwood Drive

: Frank L. and

22 Lake Road

: Doris J Shelton T and Christian B. Shelton to Eric and Carol A. Zima, $1,200,000 on Jan. 13

: Business Pk Hldg Co LLC to Sz&i LLC, $2,400,000 on Jan. 16

: Bc Inv

Propertys LLC to Adam and Rebecca Gerber, $300,000 on Jan. 14

: Jason Quido and Thomas Moore to Roberto F. Barrera and Andrea C. Fernandez, $700,000 on Jan. 16

: Placeay Action Prop LLC to Grzegorz Andrzejczyk, $260,000 on Jan. 12

: Jeffrey Henry and Erica Rodriguez to Emily Leaghty, $1,225,000 on Jan. 14

642 Bradley Street

: Arman

Construction LLC and Luis F. Badillo to Elizabeth J. Sudac, $415,000 on Jan. 15

8 Circlecle Drive

: Estate of David J.

Martin and Sandra E. Martin to Elisa Coppola, $335,000 on Jan. 15

130 Coe Avenue Unit 18

: Deborah

S. Palmieri to Susan Kiley, $115,000 on Jan. 15

372 Cosey Beach Avenue

: Estate of Louis West Palmieri and Melissa Stone to Long Tu, $1,050,000 on Jan. 12

72 Gene Street

: Ann Roseberry and Marie Carrano to Mario D. Hernandez, $320,000 on Jan. 13

270 Hemingway Avenue

: Vilma G.

Crespo to Frederik J. Vasquez, $470,000 on Jan. 12

39 High Street Unit 1

: Marcia C.

Ortiz to Manuel M. Pelaez, $280,000 on Jan. 16

24 Laura Circle

: Carmine and Rosina Carpanzano to Dominic D. and Zoie A. Walker, $385,000 on Jan. 16

18 Lenox Street

: M & D Investors LLC to Carmen Clarkin, $371,000 on Jan. 16

173 Russo Avenue Unit 410

: Estate of Carol Rowe and Shakira Holland to David Cushing, $206,500 on Jan. 13

ESSEX

: David Placeatt to Wayne F. Dailey and Leslie D. Sandin, $780,000 on Jan. 15 : Casandra and Laura Garceau to Lynn Stevens and Raymond Kowalsky, $195,000 on Jan. 14

: Colin L. Mcevily to Philip Wieloch, $550,000 on Jan. 12

: Steve Defrancesco to Vinnie and Mary E. Defrancesco, $300,000 on Jan. 12

9 Pratt Street

: Blaine and Christopher Heck to Joann and Kevin F. Soja, $1,232,000 on Jan. 13

57 Walnut Street

: True Home Offer LLC to Executive Ests Rlty LLC, $415,000 on Jan. 16

GUILFORD

: Alan A. and Laura H. Miezejeski to Dianne N. and William B. Hearn, $450,000 on Jan. 15

666 Boston Post Road Unit 4

Ronald A. and Ernestine R. Cwik to Durham Partners LLC, $311,500 on Jan. 12

Rosita O. Tomaszewski to Krystina and Brandon Gomez, $850,000 on Jan. 13

135 Durham Road

: Estate of Michael T. Korwek and Kevin J. Korwek to Durham Road LLC, $240,000 on Jan. 13

288 Jefferson Drive

: Estate of Camille Bonito and Frank Bonito to Matthew Mandel and Angela N. Adinolfi, $575,000 on Jan. 12 : Ruben and Marlene Parra to Craig and Mary Labossiere, $620,000 on Jan. 13 : Ahd

1028 Moose Hill Road

195 Tanner Marsh Road

Holdings LLC to Evan N. Woodford and Isabella Y. Chen, $1,385,000 on Jan. 15 : Amparito and Ivan Pozo to Colton and Abigail Fetters, $500,000 on Jan. 14

259 Weatherly Trail

MADISON

Bradley Corners Road

: Richard

East Nelson Real Estate Trust and Peter W. Nelson to Frank Capuano, $411,500 on Jan. 14

7 Brantwood Drive Unit 7

: Sara B. Molgano to Julian Mayor and Bethany Lawrence, $238,000 on Jan. 15

97 Kelsey Springs Drive

: John D. and Tonya M. Mastrobattisto to Christopher and Blaine Heck, $1,022,500 on Jan. 13

37 Quail Run

: Kevin P. Becker to Nicole and Michael P. Lee, $1,010,000 on Jan. 15

60 Robin Ridge Drive

: Ronald G.

Harpell to Alan and Carolyn Rilla, $575,000 on Jan. 12

N/A

: Jeremy F. Bell to 12 Forest Hills LLC, $90,000 on Jan. 12

NORTH BRANFORD

11 Birchwood Road

: Alessandro and Deborah A. Dipalma to Dean and Christa Lockery, $558,000 on Jan. 12

43 North Street

: Paul & Bridie H Tracy Real Estate Trust and Paul Tracy to John M. and Rebecca Gushen, $450,000 on Jan. 13

12 Rivaldi Drive

: Rocco A. and Carol A. Difronzo to Jason D. Wilkerson and Emilie C. Wilkinson, $620,000 on Jan. 16

19 Rolling Hills Drive

: Janet M. Brown to John A. and Alina V. Coppola, $660,000 on Jan. 12

223 Twin Lakes Road Unit D

: Matilda Boateng to Anthony Cafiero, $343,500 on Jan. 16

NORTH HAVEN

: Victor and Allison Desimone to David J. Munro, $550,000 on Jan. 13

: Richard J. and Elaine G. Cornwall to Katherine George and Zachary P. Duhaime, $493,000 on Jan. 15

: Annie Mac Pvt Eqty Cash2k to Michael Dibona and Ann M. Obrien, $535,000 on Jan. 13

: Michael R. Pimer and Colin R. Sullivan to Nelson Estevez-Coppiano, $410,000 on Jan. 13

: Julie Carroza and Renee P. Walsh to Sarante Athenson Lt and Sarante Athenson, $565,000 on Jan. 12

: Margaret A. Dana to Phyllis B. and Patrick Jones, $890,000 on Jan. 13

Four Unique Offerings

153 Middle Beach, Madison

Charming beach home with full guest apartment above garage across the street from Long Island Sound. Perfect opportunity for personal use, 1031 exchange or investment property. Main house and guest apartment both enjoy decks that overlook beautiful marshes with abundant wildlife. Main house has views of Long Island Sound from the second floor. Guest apartment embraces a full kitchen, family room with dining area, and bedroom suite all overlooking the tidal marshes. Offered at $2,400,000.

1455 Chapel Street, New Haven

Situated in the heart of the Yale Medical Community, and directly across from Saint Raphael’s, this offering includes two parcels totaling .51 acres, both in an RO zone. The first is 1455 Chapel which is a 6,343 square foot medical office / residence sitting on .35 acres. The second is an additional .16 acre parking lot adjacent to 1455 Chapel on Sherman Avenue. The Sherman Lot has a 15 foot entrance off Sherman Avenue. 1455 Chapel has 71 feet of frontage on Chapel Street. Property is currently a mixed use offering with 2,016 sf of office space on the first floor complimented by 4,327 sf of residential space on the two floors above. Offered at $2,495,000.

75 Half Mile Road, Guilford

Your own resort-like getaway minutes from Guilford’s renown Town Green, sandy beaches and parks. Great sites to experience should you decide to venture out of your private oasis. Spring and summer enjoy your heated Gunite pool adjacent to the homes expansive covered deck cooled by ceiling fans. Or challenge family and friends to a game of tennis or pickleball on your private courts. In the evening enjoy your favorite beverage by the homes’ outdoor fireplace adorned with a pizza oven. Offered at $2,450,000.

76 Sachem Head Road, Guilford

Resort-like gated estate perched high above Sachem Head Road overlooking a saltwater tidal marsh nestled on 2.3 professionally landscaped acres, a short bike ride to the Town center. Grab your morning cup of coffee or favorite evening beverage and step outside to your private resort complete with infinity pool, dual spas, pizza oven and outdoor bar surrounded by gates adorned with grape vines. Spectacular outdoor environment complimented by views of the meadow below. Offered at $2,950,000.

Simplifying Your Life: How to “Retire” Your 1031 Exchange and Avoid Capital Gains Tax

Dear Neighbor,

As life evolves, many of us start looking for ways to simplify—maybe by downsizing, reducing maintenance, or stepping back from managing investment properties. For some, that means selling investment real estate they’ve owned for years. But the thought of paying a large capital gains tax can make that decision feel overwhelming.

Recently, a number of my clients who own 1031-eligible investment properties have expressed exactly this concern. They no longer want the responsibility of being landlords, yet they also don’t want to lose a significant portion of their profits to taxes. Fortunately, there is an option that allows you to “retire” your 1031 exchange without buying new real estate or managing tenants—while avoiding capital gains taxes.

Here’s a simplified look at how it works:

A Modern Approach to the Traditional 1031 Exchange

1. Sell your property through a Qualified Intermediary (QI).

The QI handles the sale and holds the proceeds, as required by 1031 rules.

2. Instead of purchasing another property, your funds can be redirected into a DST (Delaware Statutory Trust).

A DST is a passive, professionally managed real estate investment approved by the IRS in 2004 for 1031 Exchanges.

• No landlord responsibilities

• Monthly income distributions

• Tax-deferred growth

This gives you the ability to step away from hands-on ownership while keeping your tax benefits intact.

3. After two years, your DST investment may be eligible to convert into a REIT through a 721 Exchange.

This makes your investment even more passive and diversified, with the potential for steady income distributions.

4. From an estate planning perspective, your heirs will also receive a “stepped-up” cost basis along with immediate liquidity options for each beneficiary.

This will eliminate capital gains taxes for the next generation.

Why Clients Love This Strategy

• No more property management

• Ongoing income potential

• Tax deferral on the sale of appreciated real estate

• Elimination of Capital gains tax.

• A smoother, simpler financial transition into the next phase of life

Learn More

For many property owners, the real challenge isn’t the transaction itself—it’s the uncertainty, the risk, and the fear of making a costly decision. My role as your neighbor and realtor is to help you de-risk the process so you can preserve the value you’ve worked a lifetime to build. That’s why I’ve partnered with Guilford’s own Eric Lawton, Principal at Impact Financial Wealth Management, to offer a clear, intentional, and turnkey pathway forward. Think of it as a value-preserving next step.

We will be hosting an informational event soon to help explain the 1031/DST/721 pathway in more detail. If you would like to attend, or simply want your name added to the interest list, please reach out.

As always, I’m here to help guide you through real estate decisions that support your goals and simplify your life.

Warm regards, John Campbell

203.415.5439

john.campbell@compass.com 724

Eric Lawton 203 884 0120

www.impactyourgoals.com

The Sound 02-05-26

Barn Blaze Devastates Branford Farm

Harbor on Ice

Chad Adamik: A Pastor’s Journey of Faith

Special to The Sound

Branford RTM Approves DPW Projects

Program for High School Students

Fatal Involving Branford Woman to Go to Trial

Branford Elks Welcomes Applications for Scholarship

Contacting The Sound

SPONSORED CONTENT:

Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

Barn Blaze Devastates Branford Farm

Hatha Yoga Series

Community Lens: A Program for North Branford Residents

GriefShare Meetings Start February

Tax Relief for Veterans and Elderly or Totally Disabled Homeowners

Calling Volunteers for Branford Porchfest

Precious Bubbles

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S BAIT & TACKLE

Find Your Match At Forgotten Felines

Come for Sunday Service

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Ann C. Johnson (25-00430)

LEGAL NOTICE - REVISED NOTICE OF ACTIONS

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

TOWN OF BRANFORD BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405 Legal Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING INLAND WETLANDS COMMISSION BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Constance D. Butler (25-00449)

Town of Branford, CT

Representative Town Meeting Public Hearing- REVISED

Exploring Our Grief Journey: A Grief Support Group

Scholarships for Connecticut Women

Chad Adamik: A Pastor’s Journey of Faith

New and Gently Used Books Needed

Enjoy a Game of Duplicate Bridge

Goodwill Seeks Donations

GED, ESOL, and Citizenship Options

Fun By The Numbers

Here’s How It Works:

North Branford Girls Basketball Closes Regular Season with Tough Five-Game Stretch

Recent Snow Storm Reflects Long Island Sound History

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

Branford Soccer Club Boys Deliver First Loss to North Haven; Girls Tie Wallingford

Recent Snow Storm Reflects Long Island Sound History

On The Water:

Branford Finishes with Several Top Six Performances at the Girls and Boys Conference Division Meet

Schedules

BRANFORD

BRANFORD

NORTH BRANFORD

Madison Hoop Dreams to Hold Camp Over February Break

Celebrating the Creative Spirit of LAA Artists An Exhibition in Five Acts:

FEB. 6

Two Connecticut Theaters Start 2026 With New Space, New Leadership; Marks 10th Year Anastasia

Daily Routines

Aisle ON THE

Anastasia

Guilford Art Center Opens Summer Youth Program Registration Early

About Guilford Art Center

Working 9 to 5: New Haven Museum Recalls a Movement

About the Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven

About the New Haven Museum

Witness the Wild: Where Eagles Fly

Press Release from The Audubon Shop

Black Inventors Who Made the Stuff Around Us

THURSDAY, FEB. 12

Drive-In Movie Night

Real Estate Transactions

BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

ESSEX

GUILFORD

MADISON

NORTH BRANFORD

NORTH HAVEN

Four Unique Offerings

153 Middle Beach, Madison

1455 Chapel Street, New Haven

75 Half Mile Road, Guilford

76 Sachem Head Road, Guilford