The Sound 04-10-25 by dayshorepublishing

April 10, 2025

Budget Heads to RTM with 2.1% Tax Hike, Reduced Mill Rate

By Pam Johnson

Senior Staff Writer

By unanimous vote of Branford’s Board of Finance (BOF), a recommended 2025-’26 town budget of $141,698,673, representing a 2.1% tax increase and a reduced mill rate of 21.46, heads to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) for the final step in the annual budget review and adoption process. The BOF-recommended 21.46 mill rate is

a reduction of 29.49% from Branford’s current 30.48 mill rate. By making several decisions, including applying a 67.6% annual increase in monies from the town’s general fund, the BOF-recommended budget helps address property tax increases created by the state-mandated October 2024 revaluations.

According to budget hand-outs at the March 31 BOF meeting, based on October 2024 revaluations, Branford’s adjusted 2025-

Branford, North Branford & Northford Vol. XXIX Iss. 15 ’s talents shine in life and on stage......2

’26 net Grand List of $5,651,124,978 reflects an increase of 44.9% over the 2024-’25 net Grand List of $3,900,697,512.

The BOF-recommended budget incorporates $6,446,000 in revenue from the town’s general fund, an increase of $2,600,000 or 67.6% over general fund monies applied to the 2024-2025 town budget.

See Branford Budget page 12

Way to ‘Bee’

Alex Grozev, left, the winner of the third-grade division of the Branford Parks and Recreation's annual Jeannette L. Palluzzi Memorial Spelling Bee, is congratulated by his father, Tenyo, after his division's event. The contest was judged by Diane Kaczinski and Kathy Nelson and held at the Joseph Trapasso Community House.

The Hand co-op boys’ swim team, which includes athletes from Branford, placed second at the Class L State Finals this winter........14 Second in the State

Bread at Home

byWesleyBunnell/ TheSound

Bread is the quintessential human food...............................25

Photo

Sound

Maureen Carr

By Pam Johnson

Sound Senior Staff Writer

In life and on stage, Maureen Carr’s talent and abilities shine through. Born blind, the Branford resident of nearly 54 years has always embraced opportunities and approached challenges with optimism.

While Maureen was born totally blind, numerous surgeries she underwent between the ages of six months to about two years of age provided her with the limited vision she maintains to this day.

As Maureen humorously describes, ”...it’s enough vision to get me into trouble and not quite enough to get me out of it!”

Maureen said her parents gave her a great start in life, including enrolling her in Hartford’s Oak Hill School, which was solely dedicated to visually impaired or blind children.

”I grew up thinking I was like everybody else because I was like all my peers. So, I had a wonder-

ful opportunity to grow up and get an education. Had I not been in that environment where they

Maureen also credits her success in life to having a strong connection to faith and her belief in a higher power.

Person of the Week Maureen Carr: Shining Through

About two years ago, Maureen connected with a very special program offered by Legacy Theatre, its Wheel Life Theatre Troupe.

Now in its fifth year, Legacy Theatre in Stony Creek is a professional theater company dedi-

There’s Still Time

It’s budget season, which is always an important time in local government. This year is even more critical, given this year’s revaluation and the shift of more tax burden away from commercial property and onto homeowners.

Last week, the Board of Finance (BOF) made some cuts to the administration’s proposed spending, and they also committed to using an additional $2.6 million from the rainy day fund. This allowed them to lower the tax increase from 6.9% to 2.1%, a step in the right direction.

The budget now comes to the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), which has the final say on expenditures, and

BHS Class of 1975 50th Reunion

after that, it goes back to the BOF to set the mill rate.

There is still time for citizen input before the RTM vote on May 13, so please get in touch if you have specific questions or concerns. You can find complete contact info for every RTM member on the Town’s website.

It’s your town and your money. Government works best when everyone is involved.

Abigail E. Adams Branford

Abigail Adams is a member of the Representative Town Meeting for the fifth district.

The Branford High School class of 1975 is holding its 50th reunion on Saturday, June 28, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Nuzzo’s Farm, 736 East Main Street, Branford. For more information, email your contact information (name, address, and email) to branfordhsreunion1975@gmail.com.

BRANFORD

TOWN MEETINGS

NOTE: Call the town clerk at 203-315-0678 or visit the Branford town website at www.branford-ct.gov to learn how to participate in the following meetings:

Thursday, April 10

5:30 p.m.

East Shore District Health Department Board of Directors Inland Wetlands Commission

Monday, April 14

Tuesday, April 15

Wednesday, April 16

Clean Energy Ad Hoc Committee Board of Police Commissioners Traffic Committee Board of Police Commissioners Housing Authority Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter Commission Representative Town Meeting Rules and Ordinances Committee Budget Meeting Board of Selectmen Parker Memorial Park Commission

Chris Piccirillo

Obituaries

Obituary Charles Fiskio Guilford

Charles Robert “Charlie” Fiskio of Guilford, formerly of Branford, passed away on March 23, 2025, due to complications of polycythemia vera. He was diagnosed with this disease at just 19 years old and bravely navigated that journey with the love and support of family and friends. Charlie was born in New Haven on Aug. 1, 1994, son of Robert M. and Susan Welch Fiskio of Branford. He was the beloved husband of Savannah Calamita.

Charlie is survived by his sisters, Emily Fiskio (Dan Iead) of Brooklyn, New York; Ellie Fiskio of Branford, and Elizabeth (Mark) Lewis of Branford; his nieces and nephew, Pearl Iead, Liliana and Jack Lewis, and Lydia Calamita; his mother and father-in-law, Brendalee and Mark Calamita of North Branford; and his sister and brother-inlaw, Alexis and Austin (Serena) Calamita of North Branford. Charlie is survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as many, many wonderful friends he loved deeply.

Charlie was the sweetest boy growing up, doted on by his sisters and parents. At an early age, he learned to play the guitar and loved having music around him. He grew to love reading and fell deep into his books. Charlie was a talented athlete in both baseball and basketball. He was a graduate of the Bran-

Wanted: Volunteers to Fix Things

ford High School Class of 2013. Charlie was passionate about helping others, volunteering as a counselor at Camp Totoket, and participating in Habitat for Humanity projects. His compassion for others was an inspiration to many. Charlie grew to be a kind, sentimental, selfless, and gentle man, loved deeply by his wife and adored by his nieces and nephew. Charlie loved to snowboard in the winter and was an avid golfer. He always dreamt of golfing in Ireland, and this September, with his wife, he was able to fulfill that dream. He worked as the manager of the Campbell Foundry Company where he really found a home professionally with people he truly cared for. Charlie’s love was remarkable and always far-reaching, and if you knew him, you loved him. He lived life fully and he put joy in every single thing he did. He will be missed immensely by all who had the privilege of knowing him. We will remember him with love, for that is what he was made of.

Visiting hours were on March 28 at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. A funeral service was held on March 29, followed by a reception in Pilgrim Hall at the First Congregational Church, 1009 Main Street, Branford. Burial was private at Branford Center Cemetery. For an online memorial, see www.wsclancy.com. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund will be set up in Charlie’s honor, where donations can be made. Details are forthcoming.

Do you enjoy repairing things? Do you have a specialty? If so, then come join the crew of “volunteer repairers” who offer their services to neighbors to repair items that are broken and will otherwise end up in the landfill. Repair Café-Branford is recruiting people with experience in the following categories: electrical appliances (including lamps), electronics, mechanical devices (such as clocks, toys, bicycles), jewelry, sewing, smaller wooden items, and tool sharpening. Repairers bring their own tools, and the owner of each item signs a liability waiver. The spring repair café is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Joseph Trapasso Community House, 46 Church Street, Branford. The event is co-sponsored by Sustainable Guilford and Trinity Episcopal Church, 1109 Main Street, Branford. To join the Branford Repair Café crew, email repaircafebranford@gmail.com. For more information about Repair Café, visit repaircafe.org/en.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Sound

47 Eugene O’Neill Dr, New London, CT 06320

news@shorepublishing.com

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Fax 203-245-9773

Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

While our press schedule often does not allow us to publish death notices in time to announce memorial services, readers can find obituaries posted to the 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.

For a fifth consecutive year, Parthenon Diner of Branford has teamed up with community sponsors to once again provide free, prepared take-out holiday dinners for advance pick-up by Branford military veterans, elderly residents or in-need community members who've registered for the program.

Parthenon Teams Up for Free Easter Meals to Branford Vets, Seniors, Residents in Need

By Pam Johnson

Sound Senior Staff Writer

For a fifth consecutive year, Parthenon Diner of Branford has teamed up with community sponsors to once again provide free, prepared take-out Easter dinners for advance pick-up by Branford military veterans, elderly residents, or in-need community members who’ve registered for the program. Call-in registration opens Thursday, April 10, and ends Friday, April 18. The free Easter dinner program is organized annually by East Haven attorney

Andrew Amendola, with sponsorship help from Parthenon owner John Sousoulas and community contributors.

Amendola said this year’s community sponsor donations will also help deliver 274 treat-filled Easter baskets to Branford kids in need. The baskets will be distributed in advance of Easter through organizations, including Branford Counseling & Community Center, Branford Early Learning Center, Feed Branford

See Parthenon page 11

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Bohdan S. Sowa, AKA Bohdan Stephen Sowa (24- 00369)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated March 25, 2025, 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.

Taylor Carafeno, Clerk

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Roger Mansfield (25-00114)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated March 27, 2025, 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.

The fiduciary is:

Craig Mansfield

The fiduciary is:

Father Paul Luniw

c/o IRENE P ROMANELLI, ROMANELLI LAW OFFICES, 255 MAIN STREET, SUITE 303, HARTFORD, CT 06106

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

c/o ALPHONSE IPPOLITO, FASANO, IPPOLITO, LEE & FLORENTINE, LLC, 107 MONTOWESE STREET, BRANFORD, CT 06405

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Bradon Earl Fletcher (25-00103)

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Keri Ann Fletcher, 15157 Z Street, Omaha, NE 68137

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Stevens Guyle Baird, Sr. (25-00078)

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Eileen Baird

c/o ETTORE F CARCHIA, CARCHIA & ASSOCIATES, LLP, 140 WASHINGTON AVENUE, NORTH HAVEN, CT 06473

TOWN

OF NORTH BRANFORD OFFICE OF THE TAX COLLECTOR

LEGAL NOTICE OF SEWER USE FEES AND SEWER ASSESSMENT INSTALLMENT CHARGE DUE April 1st, 2025

Property owners of the Town of North Branford are hereby notified that the second installment of Sewer Use fees and Sewer Assessment charges are due on April 1st, 2025. Payments not received or postmarked by May 1st, 2025 will be considered delinquent and statutory delinquent interest charges will apply. Interest will accrue at the rate of 1½% per month reverting back to April 1st, 2025, with a minimum interest charge of $2.00 for Sewer Use.

The annual Sewer Use fee of $500.00 was set by the North Branford Water Pollution Control Authority at its September 17th, 2024 meeting.

Property owners that are on a single payment schedule for Sewer Assessment are hereby notified that payment is due on April 1st, 2025 and statutory delinquent charges will apply if payment is not received or postmarked by May 1st, 2025.

Bills may be paid at the North Branford Town Hall, Tax Collector’s office Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 4:30. Payments can also be made online at the town’s website: www.northbranfordct.gov, under Online Services. There is a fee for this service: 2.5% for Credit Cards: $3.95 for Debit Cards and $2.00 for an electronic check. If you have lost or misplaced your bill, call the Tax office at 203-484-6011 for a replacement. If remittance is made by mail and a receipt is requested, please enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope. Checks should be made payable to the Tax Collector, NB.

Dated this 20th Day of March 2025

Gerri Winnick, CCMC Tax Collector

Photo by Pam Johnson/The Sound

41st branford festival guide

North Branford Recognizes April as Autism Awareness Month

Press Release from the Town of North Branford

On April 1, North Branford Mayor Rose Angeloni presented a proclamation on behalf of the Town Council, recognizing the month of April as Autism Awareness Month in the Town of North Branford. Angeloni presented the proclamation to North Branford resident Ashley McClain

and her son, Colton. McClain is founder of Beyond the Horizon, Inc.

The mission of Beyond the Horizon is to empower individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and those in the special needs community, along with their families and communities, through advocacy, awareness, education, and support.

Reach every home and business in Branford, as well as everyone attending the festival on June 13, 14, & 15.

The publication will be inserted in The Sound (circulation of 11,221) on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

To advertise, please contact Betsy Lemkin at b.lemkin@shorepublishing.com by Monday, April 28, 2025

LEGAL NOTICE

NORTH BRANFORD ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

Notice is hereby given that the North Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025 at the North Branford Town Hall, 909 Foxon Road, North Branford, CT to consider the following:

A. Appl. #2025-1, 12 Forest View Road – requesting a variance to reduce the front property line setback to 44 feet where 50 feet is required, to build an addition onto existing house. Owner/Applicant: Ryan Palmieri

B. Appl #2025-2, 1952 Middletown Avenue – requesting a variance to allow four (4) apartments within the main dwelling unit in an R-40 zone. Owner: Robert & Gerald Genera, Trustees/Applicant: Timothy J. Lee, Esq.

C. Appl. #2025-3, 84 Valley Road – requesting a variance to allow for the enlargement of a non-conforming residential structure to add a 2nd floor on existing house and a small addition on the front of existing house in an I-2 zone where a single family house is not allowed. Owner/Applicant: Al Rose & Robert Rose

At this hearing, all interested parties may appear and be heard and written communications will be received. Copies of the applications are on file for public inspection in the Town Hall Planning Department or on the Town’s website www.northbranfordct.gov.

Steve Kenning, Chairman

Photo from Town of North Branford

On April 1, North Branford Town Council's Autism Awareness Month Proclamation was presented by Mayor Rose Angeloni to North Branford's Ashley McClain (left) and her son, Colton. McClain is the founder of autism awareness and advocacy organization Beyond the Horizon, Inc.

NOTICE OF DECISION

Notice is given of the following decisions made by the Town of Branford’s Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission at the Regular Meeting held on Thursday March 27, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.

The following applications were approved with conditions:

1. IW#25.02.01- 301 Maple St-Renovations to yard space within 100’ of watercourse

Peter Bassermann, Chairman

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF BRANFORD

The Planning & Zoning Commission of the Town of Branford, Connecticut hereby gives notice of Public Hearings to be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:00 PM by remote technology to consider the applications listed below. Information regarding how to participate in the Public Hearings will be provided on the Commission’s meeting Agenda that will be posted on the Town’s website at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

1. Application #25-2.5 Special Exception Modification for an existing PDD (Planned Development District) located at 52,54,56, and 58 Maple Street (f/k/a 60 Maple Street) Mariners Landing LLC c/o Robert Sachs (Member)-Applicant & Owner.

At said hearings all persons will have the right to be heard. Copies are on file in the Planning & Zoning Commissions office at the Planning & Zoning Department (1019 Main Street) Branford, CT 06405. Written communications may be sent to the above address or to: PlanningandZoning@branford-ct.gov.

BRANFORD PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION

C. ANDRES, CHAIRPERSON

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA FAMILY DIVISION

CASE NO.:24-DR-2473

IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: DEJAN PETROVIC, Petitioner, and DOMINIQUE CATHERINE PEPE, Respondent.

NOTICE OF ACTION OF PETITIONER’S PETITION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE AND OTHER RELIEF

TO: DOMINIQUE CATHERINE PEPE 25 Autumn Ridge Road # I Branford, CT 06405

Physical Description: Age: 35; Race: Caucasian; Hair Color: Blonde; Height: 5’2”; Date of Birth: March 26, 1989

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Petitioner’s Petition For Dissolution Of Marriage And Other Relief has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on the DEJAN PETROVIC, to Brenda M. Miranda, Esquire, c/o Family First Legal Group, 2950 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples, Florida 34110 on or before May 5, 2025 and file the original with the Clerk of this Court at 3315 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102, Naples, Florida 34112, before service on Petitioner, DEJAN PETROVIC or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Notice of Current Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed to the address on record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

Dated: March 18, 2025

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT

By Jane Garrison Deputy Clerk

Maureen Carr: Shining Through

Continued from page 2

Wheel Life Theatre,” says Maureen. ”My second career has always been as a professional singer, but I haven’t had any acting experience, so I was going to reject the idea.”

Instead, Maureen took a leap of faith and joined the troupe. Its free classes and rehearsals are ongoing weekly, Saturdays 11 a.m. to noon, at Branford’s Joe Trapasso Community House, 46 Church Street.

Participants can join anytime. The class engages in fun games, exercises, writing, and performing in a confidence-building, supportive environment.

Maureen thoroughly enjoys working with the people she’s met in the troupe, including Keely Baisden Knudsen, Legacy’s executive artistic director and cofounder.

”The commitment, the kindness, the way that I was able to identify with everyone, is amazing,” says Maureen. ”Everyone is there because they’re really passionate and care a lot about trying to educate people and make the world know that disability isn’t what disables people. It’s the lack of accommodation and the projection of what other people who don’t have that particular disability think you can or cannot do.”

To date, Maureen has performed in two plays produced for the troupe. She’s looking forward to continuing.

”This is definitely something I’m committed to as a person who likes to educate people about people with various types of disabilities. I really think that this is one of the things I’m good at and my reason for being,” said Maureen.

Maureen has also offered her support and experiences to others as a public

speaker and within local support groups.

”Difference is nothing to be afraid of. My commitment is to helping people recognize the potential that we all have. It’s igniting the power of you. I think through my own life experience, I can present that with credible authority,” she says.

In her most recent Wheel Life performance, Maureen had a small opportunity to sing, something she hasn’t done in public for quite some time.

”For many years, I performed with some musicians I first met in my 20’s. I sang at local venues, at wedding venues, and various country clubs. And, of course, when I worked at the VA, I was always trotted out to sing The Star Spangled Banner and things like that!” she says. ”So it was nice to get compliments once again on my voice. It made me realize God gives us all talents, and I need to try to make the effort to use the gifts that I’ve been given.”

As one who loves performing Broadway tunes and the music of the Great American Songbook, Maureen is ready to hit the road as a singer once again.

”I know I could do a credible job at a dinner theatre or a little concert venue like Legacy. But first, I need to get a couple of people who would be interested in putting something together and then taking it on the road and see where we go,” she says. She’d love to hear from an interested keyboard player and/or other interested party seeking to join her in performing locally.

”My vision is to take it around to small venues, nursing homes, anywhere where people would enjoy listening to the music,” says Maureen. ”I’m wide open to possibilities. Every day is a new adventure. If you just let yourself be open to what life has in front of you, it’s amazing.”

St. Marys High School Class of 1975 50th Reunion

St. Marys High School New Haven class of 1975 will hold its 50th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Woodwinds, 29 Schoolground Road, Branford. For more information, members of the class can contact Laura Ruoppolo Spignesi at lauraspignesi@yahoo.com.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Paul Francis Connolly, Sr. (25-00102)

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Brian Connolly

c/o CATHERINE MOLLIE BACCARO, REED WILSON CASE, 330 SOUTH MAIN STREET, MIDDLETOWN, CT 06457

Parthenon Teams Up for Free Easter Meals to Branford

Vets,

Seniors, Residents in Need

Continued from page 7

Kids, and St. Mary’s Church.

Amendola raised $4,000 in funding for this year’s Easter program. In addition to the support provided by Sousoulas and Parthenon Diner, program sponsors are Andrew Amendola, Don and Jesse Herzog of East River Energy, Jim Civitello of Enson’s Menswear, Ryan Torello of Progressive Benefits Solutions and ”...an anonymous, honorable, loyal and longtime supporter,” said Amendola.

Amendola also thanks East Haven residents Cheryl Cooper Tardif and Liz Franco-Spano for their Easter basket assistance.

Since November 2020, Amendola has worked with Sousoulas and community sponsors to offer many hundreds of free holiday meal programs to local residents in need at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter each year.

Amendola said he organizes the holiday programs ”...because there’s a need, and because I can. ‘To whom much is given, much is expected.’”

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Ann Gleason (25-00120)

The Hon. Charles E. Tiernan, III, Judge of the Court of Probate, District of Branford - North Branford Probate Court, by decree dated March 24, 2025, 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.

Taylor Carafeno, Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Carol A. Neagle, 34917 Meadow Reach Drive, Zephyrhills, FL 33541

“We’re grateful to the community, as always, and happy to help in any way we can. We’re a small community, so it’s great to be able to help,” Sousoulas said.

Parthenon Diner is offering recipients their choice of Easter dinner featuring baked ham or roasted turkey with potato and vegetable sides and pie for dessert. Each free, prepared take-out dinner will be ready for pick-up on Saturday, April 19, to enjoy on Easter Sunday, April 20. Heating instructions will be provided.

To receive a meal, Branford military veterans, senior citizens, and residents in need are asked to call to register in advance, beginning Wednesday, April 10, and no later than Friday, April 18. Call 203-481-0333, ask for the manager or owner, and provide your name, address, and telephone number for verification. Staff will then provide callers with a Saturday, April 19, pick-up time of between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. so that fast pick-up service can be provided.

In 2025, Parthenon marks a milestone 40th year as a Branford business. The iconic restaurant at 374 East Main Street first opened in 1985 and has been very involved in supporting community causes from the start.

NBHS Class of 1975 50th Reunion

The North Branford High School class of 1975 is holding its 50th reunion on Friday, Aug. 22, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Amarante’s Sea Cliff, 62 Cove Street, New Haven. For more information, email your contact information (name, address, and email) to NoBranfordHSClassof1975@gmail.com.

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.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Patricia Ann Fleury (25-00107)

Jennifer Jaconette, Assistant Clerk

The fiduciary is:

Brian Fleury, 295 Young Street, East Hampton, CT 06424

Ann Marie Johnson c/o GIACOMO TOLOMEO, THE PELLEGRINO LAW FIRM P.C., 475 WHITNEY AVENUE, NEW HAVEN, CT 06511

LEGAL NOTICE - REVISED

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF BRANFORD BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT 06405

The Branford Zoning Board of Appeals will meet Tuesday April 22, 2025 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.

New Business:

25/4-1 Karen & Vincent Bell (Applicants & Owners) (E09-000-003-00033 R3) 36 Oak Ridge Road

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.5 Front Setback from 30 feet to 22 feet 6 inches.

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 Side Setback from 15 feet to 12 feet 8 inches for the construction of a new Entrance way and a two-car attached garage with room above.

25/4-2 Wendy Wheeler (Applicant & Owner) (J10-000-004-000022 R3) 259 Thimble Islands Road

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 To allow a side setback of 6 feet where 12 feet is required (7ft existing).

Var. Sec. 8.1.C.3 To allow an expansion of an existing non-conforming structure for the expansion Of an existing second floor bathroom and closet.

25/4-3 Vincent Federico (Applicant), Jennifer Federico (Owner) (D10-000-006-00009 R3) 18-19 Etzel Road

Var. Sec. 6.2.E.(9) To allow a swimming pool within 25 feet of a critical resource. (Critical Resource setback from 25 feet to 22.7 feet)

25/4-4 Jacunski Humes Architects, LLC-(Applicants ) Town of Branford (Owner) (D07-000-006-00015BC) 33 Laurel Street- (Branford Police Facility)

Var. Sec. 6.7.C.3 Table 1-Main public entrance portico/covered lighting with 18.9 footcandles against 8 footcandles for both officer and public safety.

Var. Sec. 6.7.C.3 Table 1- Official police fleet vehicle-only carport lighting with 13 footcandles against 7.5 footcandles for officer safety.

Var. Sec. 6.13.B.2 Northern property line fencing at 8 feet nominal height against 6 feet height for reduction of sight and sound from 24-hour operations for the Police Facility Renovations.

Var. Sec. 6.13.B.2 Southeast property line fencing at 10 feet nominal height against 6 feet height for reduction of sight and sound from 24 hour operations for the Police Facility renovations.

25/4-5 Carol A. & William Camera (Applicants & Owners) (D09-000-003-00011 R3) 12 Reynolds Avenue

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 To allow a side setback of 3.4 feet where 15 feet is required. Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 To allow a side setback of 3.02 feet where 15 feet is required for a proposed attached garage and house addition.

25/4-6 Mary Helen Molley (Applicant & Owner) (E11-000-006-00007R3) 10 Maltby Street

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 Side yard setback (NE) of 3.1 feet where 10 feet is required and 3.1 feet is existing. Var. 3.9 Undersized residential lots.

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 Side yard setback (SW) of 8.6 feet where 10 feet is required, and 8.6 feet is existing to demolish and rebuild a residential structure on the existing footprint.

25/4-7 Peter Safer (Applicant & Owner) (F10-000-013-00010 R2) 114 Limewood Avenue

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.6 To allow a side setback of 1.4 feet where 10 feet is required (1.3 feet exists). Var. Sec. 3.4.A.7 To allow a rear setback of 13.1 feet where 20 feet is required (13.9 exists) Var. Sec. 3.4.A.9 To allow a floor area ratio of 0.63 where 0.50 is required (0.21 exists).

Var. Sec. 3.4.A.10 To allow a building coverage of 0.30 where 0.25 is required (0.25 exists) for the demolition and replacement of the two existing houses on the property.

Other Business: Appeal of the ZEO email decision regarding 31 Spring Cove Road

James Sette (Chairman)

Branford Budget Heads to RTM Review with 2.1% Tax Hike and Reduced Mill Rate

Continued from page 1

challenging year driven largely [by] the revaluation, the shift on the residential taxpayer. I just want to acknowledge the Finance department and our longstanding Finance Director Jim Finch, who really laid out a strategy,” said Cosgrove. Cosgrove recognized BOF actions taken on March 31 as well as those the board has taken since February to try to mitigate as much of the impact of the budget as possible.

“What the board has done tonight was really a large part, in terms of what was required. The tax levy of a 2% increase is very low, as we all know, in comparison to what’s happening out there,” said Cosgrove.

Cosgrove said the community of Branford is fortunate to be in a position of financial strength.

“It’s decades in the making, following strong fiscal practices that have been acknowledged by the rating agencies many times over,” Cosgrove said. “Every

LEGAL NOTICE

JAMES BLACKSTONE MEMORIAL LIBRARY BRANFORD, CONNECTICUT INVITATION TO BID

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/PROPOSALS

AUDITORIUM BALCONY ENCLOSURE RENOVATION

RFQ/RFP TYPE: Service

The James Blackstone Memorial Library, Branford Connecticut is seeking qualified professionals to provide architectural design services to further existing conceptual plans to enclose the auditorium balcony to meet the needs of the Branford community for additional small conference/meeting rooms.

RFQ/P submitted proposals are to be submitted in a sealed envelope showing the name and address of the proposers, and be clearly marked “SEALED RFQ/RFP for James Blackstone Memorial Library Balcony Enclosure Renovation.” Submissions must be received by Katy McNicol, Library Director, at James Blackstone Memorial Library, located at 758 Main Street, Branford, Connecticut by 2 PM on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Submissions received after that time and date will not be accepted.

There will be two site meetings held at James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main Street, Branford, Connecticut, commencing at 2 PM on Monday, April 14, and at 2 PM on Tuesday, April 15, for prospective bidders to scope the conditions and better understand the project requirements. Attendance at either meeting is MANDATORY.

The James Blackstone Memorial Library reserves the right to waive any technical defects in the bids; to reject any bids which do not conform to terms and conditions described in the RFQ/P; to reject any or all bids and to again invite bids; and waive informalities or irregularities in the bidding process.

Both the qualifications of the firm and the cost of the proposal will be considered in the review/selection process. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible and qualified bidder whose bid is the lowest of those bidders possessing the skill, ability, and integrity necessary to perform the work in good faith. The cost for the total renovation and construction project is paid in part by grant funds provided by the Connecticut State Library pursuant to § 11-24 of the Connecticut General Statues in the amount of $153,266.

This contract is subject to state contract compliance requirements, including non-discrimination statutes and set-aside requirements. A performance bond covering 100% of the contract price is required for contracts over $100,000 (C.G.S. 49-41). Please note that, per statute, design professionals are exempt from having to provide this performance bond. For remodel/maintenance projects over $100,000, contractors must comply with State Prevailing Fair Wage Provisions (C.G.S. 31-53). Contractor must comply with DAS Contractor Prequalification requirements, if applicable (i.e., over $500K). Contractors must comply with state and federal law regarding equal opportunity, affirmative action and contract compliance laws.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

It is the policy of the James Blackstone Memorial Library to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

year faces its own challenges. We know what we did this evening was in large part because we had a healthy fund balance that we were able to bring forward. But I think the board recognizes, and I recognize, that that level of funding or bringing fund balance forward is not sustainable year after year. There’s always a push to do it, but we have to be prudent in our decisions. Again, every year faces new challenges, so I think the best thing we can do as a community is to continue to follow the strong practices...ensuring that we remain conservative in our approach, and that will lead us into year after year where we’re able to have opportunities to meet such challenges.”

The BOF began budget workshops on March 17 with a requested $144,457,798 bottom line and a proposed 22.69 mill rate. Ultimately, adjustments, recommended resolutions, and other decisions sliced $2,759,125 from the requested bottom line, a reduction of 1.91%.

On March 31, Mooney provided a quick review of the summary of where the BOF’s recommended budget stands. Budget requirements of $141,698,673 represent an increase of $6,387,577 or 4.7% over the

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current budget. With estimated revenues of $118,772,000, that equates to an increase of $2.4 million or a 2.1% increase over the current year, and new mill rate of 21.49; due to incorporating other revenue contributions including $855,000 for state and federal grants, $440,000 for departmental receipts and an increase of $2,600,000 in fund balance brought forward.

Next, the RTM will review the BOF recommendations before a final RTM budget vote can be made. The BOF-recommended $141,698,67 budget includes appropriations of $69,934,640 to the Board of Education (operating budget and capital) and $71,764,033 to all Town departments.

Once the RTM votes to set a final budget bottom line, the BOF will reconvene to set the mill rate for the new fiscal year, which begins July 1.

“I look forward to the next step, meeting with RTM, so we move forward with this final budget adoption and to be back in May to set the final mill rate,” Cosgrove told the BOF.

The March 31 BOF meeting was livestreamed and taped by BCTV and can be viewed at BCTV on Facebook.

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free help in preparing and filing state and federal income tax returns for those who need the service. The North Branford Public Libraries can help residents connect with this IRS program. Clients can now call either the Atwater Memorial Library or the Edward Smith Library for the contact information of the VITA coordinator. VITA is not an inperson program; all returns will be completed virtually by IRS-certified preparers working remotely. Clients must have a valid email address to send and receive tax documents. The library can help scan any documents, including last year’s income tax return(s) and any forms showing income and potential deductions. The library will not email client documents to the volunteer tax preparers; clients must use their own email accounts. Both libraries also have copies of federal 1040 and 1040-SR tax forms and the CT-1040 state forms. For more information, call either the Atwater Memorial Library at 203-315-6020 or the Edward Smith Library at 203-484-0469.

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-branford-gwsne.business.site.

Project documents including the complete REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/ PROPOSAL, BALCONY ENCLOSURE CONCEPTUAL STUDY and additional information about the James Blackstone Memorial library may be obtained at the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services Contracting Portal which may be accessed at: https://portal.ct.gov/DAS. LEGAL NOTICE

Comey Helps Recognize World Champion Taekwondo Branford

World Champion Taekwondo Branford sent several students to the 2024 World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships in Hong Kong.

Recently, Branford State Representative Robin Comey (D, 102) was honored to present citations recognizing their hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. Master Kyeongseob Han and World Champion Taekwondo Branford was also presented with a proclamation from Governor Ned Lamont.

For the last 18 years, the studio has been a nurturing environment for students of every age to develop skills that echo beyond the four walls of the dojang. Master Han’s commitment to fostering a safe, encouraging environment for growth is a testament to the positive culture cultivated.

Branford State Representative Robin Comey (D, 102) was honored to present citations recognizing World Champion Taekwondo Branford, which sent several students to the 2024 World Taekwondo Poomsae Championships in Hong Kong. Master Kyeongseob Han and World Champion Taekwondo Branford was also presented with a Proclamation from Governor Ned Lamont.

Press release from State Representative Robin Comey (D-102)

Photo courtesy Rep. Robin Comey

Hand Co-op Boys’ Swim Team Treaded New Waters as State Runner-Up

By Maria Cipriano

Sports Reporter

The Hand/Branford/Old Saybrook boys’ swimming and diving co-op team had a season to remember this winter. With several athletes reaching new heights and the team banding together to make postseason noise, the campaign is one each member of the squad can look back on with pride.

At the Class L State Finals on March 17, the Tigers placed second overall with 483 points. Fairfield Prep claimed the crown with 758 points, and Darien followed the co-op squad in third place, racking up 462 points. Head Coach Scott Butler, who just wrapped up his eighth season with the team, emphasized that it was a team effort to reach their goals in the pool, with every athlete doing their part to step up.

“Every single member of this team played a role. Everyone contributed to where we were able to get to,” said Butler.

“We had an amazing season, and I am so happy to have been able to help lead these boys to the accomplishments that they made.”

In the state championship competition, Matthew Ackerman (freshman, 50 and 100m freestyle) placed first in the 50meter freestyle, Adam Signorello (senior, captain, 200 freestyle, 100 butterfly) placed third in the 100 butterfly, and Diggy Starkey (freshman, 200 individual medley, 500 freestyle) took third place in the 500 freestyle. Additionally, Matthew Gentil (senior, captain, 200 individual medley, 100 breaststroke) claimed second place in the 100 breaststroke and set a new school record with a time of 58.6.

Justin Pham (senior, captain, 100m butterfly, backstroke), Gentil, Signorello, and Ackerman placed fourth in the 200 medley relay, Starkey placed sixth in the 100 individual medley (IM), and the 400 freestyle relay team of Signorello, Brandon Beaudoin (junior, 200m and 500m freestyle),

Gentil, and Ackerman placed fourth overall.

“I really did not think we would improve much upon our performances at SCC’s, [where they swam out of their minds], but, they did. They far surpassed my expectations [and theirs], as they made a clear statement at one of the highest levels of competition this state has to offer,” said Butler. “My motto with them is it doesn’t matter, get better. We work hard, we push each other hard, and we have fun.”

A trio of captains led the way for the Tigers this winter in Signorello, Gentil, and Justin Pham (100m butterfly and backstroke). Every single one of them set the tone early on in the season for what success looks like, and Butler was sure to credit all of the seniors for being such strong role models for the underclassmen.

Prior to the state championship meet, the Tigers competed at the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Championships, coming in second place with 879 points. Fairfield Prep took the crown with a score of 1,426.50 points.

The Tigers had several athletes that stepped up to the plate in that meet and

See Hand Co-op page 17

“Matthew Gentil, Adam Signorello, and Justin Pham showed the confidence this year that was needed to lead this inexperienced squad,” said Butler. "Teammates push teammates to be better teammates. Our three captains this season just completed their second season as captains. Last year, they were sort of thrown into leadership roles late in the game, but this year, they flourished as veteran leaders. That was my “motto” this year, and the three of them, along with fellow seniors Alex Muenker (50m and 100m freestyle) and Justin Li (50m and 100m freestyle), made this season even more magical than we could have expected. The leadership, amongst all five, showed each and every day.”

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Sound

Adam Signorello served as a senior captain this winter for a Hand co-op boys' swim team that placed second at both the SCC and Class L State Championship meets.

Hand’s Matthew Gentil claimed second place in the 100 breaststroke and set a new school record with a time of 58.6 at the Class L State Championship on March 17.

Branford Father-Son Duo Wins USTA Match as Guilford Racquet & Swim Club Members

By Gabby Maljanian

Sports Editor

Typically, aging weekend warriors gravitate to lower impact recreational sports such as golf. The ultimate geriatric achievement in golf is to score under your age. The probability of shooting under your age is miniscule, 0.0000089%. In tennis, the closest thing to a senior achievement is recreational doubles once or twice a week and not getting injured. That was until March 16.

At first sight, Claude and Mitch Wasterlain appear to be your normal father and son. Both are active and fit with a very similar physique and features. Mitch is a real estate developer and former track athlete at Stanford and avid biker, runner, and tennis player. Claude is the former Chief of Neurology at UCLA and a lifelong tennis player. Four years ago, upon retirement, he moved east from California to live with Mitch and his wife Trish, and to be close to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mitch lived in Manhattan at that time and chose to move to a smaller town, with a requirement being close to a tennis club for Claude. He chose Guilford, Connecticut, and now the Wasterlain family, with four generations ranging from Claude to his five and seven-year-old greatgrandchildren, is a mainstay at the Guilford Racquet and Swim Club. Additionally, Claude and Mitch both currently reside in Branford.

“Initially we signed up for the club as a place for Claude to play tennis. But the club has become a focal point for our entire family to play tennis together,” said Mitch. “It has also served as a great social outlet for us and for my dad, as we were all new to the area.”

With this common love of tennis, Claude and Mitch play together frequently with and against each other.

“Not a lot of people have the opportunity to play with their dad when they are my age,” Mitch said. ”That’s a unique thing…we’re pretty compatible players.”

The duo can be seen regularly playing with Claude’s weekly social matches or in Wasterlain family grudge doubles matches. The most enjoyable aspect is the general back-and-forth banter that takes place.

“When I moved here, I really was looking forward to playing tennis with Mitch. But now I am not good enough to play with him anymore,” Claude said.

Mitch also has his fair share of fun remarks towards

“Well, I have to get him back for all of those years I was trounced by him when I visited California,” said Mitch.

As time passed, the duo wanted to play tennis together at an even more competitive level. They decided that it might be fun to play in the United States Tennis Association (USTA) together as a doubles pair. With no expectations, they joined Guilford’s Men’s Over 40 3.0 team.

On March 16, the Wasterlain pair teamed up as father and son, winning their match to help the team split 2-2 vs. the Lyme Shores. The magical genetic synergy between the pair was evident in the contest. Mitch’s strengths are his speed and his baseline play. Claude has a very strong serve and deft touch at the net. They were in sync without overt communication, and they truly cherished the moment of being out there competing

“It felt great to win. I normally get more motivation playing USTA, but I especially do playing with my dad,” said Mitch. “I want to win it for the both of us. We take pride in that we go out and compete and win against people that are younger than us.”

It’s a compelling story of father and son teaming up and winning a competitive USTA tennis match. Mitch is 67 years old, and Claude is 89, turning 90 in April. That is a combined age of 156 years, although Claude is fairly certain that number will increase even more.

“Both of our birthdays are coming up soon, so we can be the ones to do it,” Claude said.

As Claude and Mitch continue to maintain a strong bond over playing tennis together, Claude doesn’t plan to stop playing with his family any time soon.

“I love playing with my granddaughters and my great grandkids,” said Claude. “I’ll play as long as I can still hold the racket on the right end.”

NORTH BRANFORD

Friday, April 11: at Morgan at 3:45 p.m.

Tuesday, April 15: vs. Cromwell at 11 a.m.

Wednesday, April 16: at Valley Regional at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16: vs. Jonathan Law at 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: at Berlin at 4 p.m.

Baseball

Monday, April 14: vs. Hillhouse/Career at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16: at Amity at noon

Boys’ Lacrosse

Tuesday, April 15: at Sheehan at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: vs. Norwalk at 5 p.m.

Boys’ Tennis

Friday, April 11: vs. Xavier at 3:45 p.m.

Monday, April 14: vs. Career Magnet at 3:45 p.m.

Friday, April 11: vs. Ellington at 5 p.m.

Monday, April 14: vs. Cheshire at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16: vs. Lauralton Hall at 5 p.m.

Girls’ Lacrosse Softball

Friday, April 11: vs. Shelton at 4:15 p.m.

Monday, April 14: at Wilbur Cross at 3:45 p.m.

Tuesday, April 15: at Pomperaug at 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: vs. North Haven at 4:15 p.m.

Girls’ Tennis

Friday, April 11: at North Haven at 3:45 p.m.

Saturday, April 12: vs. North Haven at 11 a.m.

Tuesday, April 15: at Cromwell at 2 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: vs. Valley Regional at 4 p.m.

Boys’ Lacrosse Outdoor Track

Monday, April 14: at Coginchaug w/ Westbrook at noon

Friday, April 11: vs. Valley Regional/Westbrook at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 14: vs. East Hampton at 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16: at Old Saybrook at 11 a.m.

Girls’ Tennis

Friday, April 11: at Old Saybrook at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 14: vs. Morgan at 3:45 p.m.

Thursday, April 17: at Lyman Hall at 3:45 p.m.

Boys’ Tennis

Friday, April 11: vs. Wilbur Cross at 3:30 p.m.

Friday, April 11: vs. Valley Regional at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 15: vs. Masuk at 4 p.m.

Monday, April 14: at Guilford at 3:45 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Jill Fried

Pictured are Claude and Mitch Wasterlain of Branford, a father-son duo that teamed up to win a USTA tennis match on March 16.

Girls’ Lacrosse

Softball

North Branford’s Connelly Finds Success as Team of One with Hand Gymnastics

By Jennifer McCulloch

Special to the Sound

North Branford High School freshman Kylie Connelly recently completed a successful first season as a team-of-one with the Hand gymnastics team. This was not Kylie’s first time competing with a different school, though, as this past fall, she was a team of one with the East Haven/Sacred Heart Academy/New Haven swimming and diving team. This spring will be the first time that she gets to don a Thunderbirds’ uniform, as she joined her school’s lacrosse team.

While Kylie competes at the high school level during each sport’s season, she never takes a break from any of her sports, training with club teams for each throughout the year. With such a busy schedule, Kylie is always on the go, and she is grateful for the support of her family.

“They drive me everywhere I have to go, and it’s a lot of money to do the different clubs — my family is very supportive,” says Kylie. “I’m definitely never bored at home. I like staying active.”

Kylie has been involved with athletics for as long as she can remember, starting to participate in gymnastics at just five years old. She trained at John’s Academy of Gymnastics (JAG) for nine years until recently transitioning to New Era in Hamden. By the second year of her gymnastics career, Kylie was competing at Level 3, moving through the levels throughout her career and now standing at Level 8.

Sports Person Week of the

Kylie never chose to specialize in a certain event, competing in all four apparatuses since she started.

“Even though I do all four, my favorite event is bars because it’s always been my best event, but I also like beam,” says Kylie. “I’ve always liked showing off my skills I learned in the gym at competitions.”

Kylie has found success in meets over the years, making it to Regionals in 2021 and 2023. While she was nervous about competing against the area’s top talent, qualifying for Regionals was a highlight of her club career.

When she got to high school, Kylie and her family knew there wasn’t a team in North Branford, so she chose to train with Hand’s gymnastics team under Head Coach Kelly Smith. While Kylie can’t score points for the Tigers and competes for individual scores as a team of one for North Branford, she has enjoyed the camaraderie.

“Before joining the team, I knew a lot of the girls on the team, and my parents knew the coach, so it was always the plan for me to compete with Hand,” says Kylie. “One of my best friends is on the team, so she introduced me to everyone, and

they made me feel welcome.”

Smith also saw Kylie embrace her place on the team, noting that Kylie made the effort to attend team dinners and outings.

“Kylie walked into our gym and fit in with the girls immediately — she has an easygoing personality and is no stranger to hard work,” says Smith. “It was clear right away that she was going to have a great breakout freshman season. She’s strong all around but especially excelled on beam this season with a steady and calm presence to stick her routine in the majority of our meets. She has tremendous potential and is poised for a great high school career.”

Kylie completed her freshman season with a slew of honors, including being named Second Team All-State, All-Shoreline, National High School Gymnastics Association (NHSGA) Academic All-American, NHSGA AllAmerican on beam, and NHSGA All-American for all-around. She was the floor champion and took third in the All-Around in the Shoreline Conference. Kylie also qualified for the State Open with her scores in beam.

Even though Hand is a Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) competitor, because Kylie attends North Branford High School, when it came to the postseason, she had to compete in the Shoreline Conference Championships. While Kylie was happy with her results, what also meant

See page 17

Photo courtesy of Kylie Connelly

Kylie Connelly is a three-sport athlete, competing in diving, gymnastics, and lacrosse — training in all three sports year-round.

Hand Co-op Boys’ Swim Team Treaded New Waters as State Runner-Up

Continued from page 14

made the All-SCC Team, including Starkey who finished second in the 200 IM and third in the 500 freestyle, Ackerman who placed first in the 50 freestyle and second in the 100 freestyle, and Signorello who took third in the 100 butterfly.

In addition to the results in the pool that the squad was able to achieve this winter, Butler was proud to see the swimmers develop an even deeper bond outside of it, further helping to solidify the confidence the athletes needed to achieve that postseason success.

“We wanted to win more meets than last season, place higher at SCC’s, place higher in the state tournament, and create a team full of young men that could work together towards a common goal and to support one another. We also wanted to push each other to become a better version of ourselves,” said Butler. “Reflecting on our goals now, we won nine out of 10 meets, only losing to Fairfield Prep, and we finished second overall at SCC’s and in states. Lots of friendships were rekindled from last season, and quite a few friendships were made. Training in such close proximity to one another gave these young men the opportunity to spend a lot of time together.”

Although the Tigers will lose some very impactful familiar faces to graduation this spring, Butler looks forward to the possibilities that next year’s team will bring,

knowing the roster will still produce a high level of talent.

“We are graduating five solid contributing seniors. We should pick up approximately one or two incoming freshmen that I know of that swim year-round with area USA Club teams,” said Butler. “I cannot wait to see how the dynamics of the new team will pan out. All I know is that they will still be a force to reckon with in the SCC Conference and the Class L Division.

I can’t wait.”

The co-op roster includes Hand athletes Ackerman, James Alvarado (freshman, 100m butterfly and 100m backstroke), Sahil Bhatt (junior, 50m and 100m freestyle), Grant Campbell (junior, 200m freestyle and 100m breaststroke), James Crozier (200 individual medley and 500m freestyle), Gentil, Li, Muenker, Eric Rasknis (freshman, 50m and 100m freestyle), Signorello, Diggy Starkey, Thomas Starkey (junior, 200m and 500m freestyle), Kai Taras-Cinque (sophomore, 100m freestyle and backstroke), Quinn Walz (freshman, 200m freestyle, and 100m backstroke), and Andy Wanf (sophomore, 100m freestyle and backstroke); Branford swimmers Chase Barone (junior, 200m individual medley and 100m backstroke), Jude Davey (junior, 200m individual medley and 100m butterfly), and Alex Sanchez (junior, 200m individual medley and 100m breaststroke); and Old Saybrook’s Beaudoin.

North Branford’s Connelly Finds Success as Team of One with Hand Gymnastics

Continued from page 16

a lot to her was the support of her teammates.

“Even though they weren’t competing, they came to cheer me on,” says Kylie.”Having their support is very important because when you’re struggling to get a new skill, your teammates help motivate you.”

Kylie was also grateful for Smith’s coaching as she transitioned to a high school team. She also extends credit to her club coaches — Tasha Kovach at New Era and Devyn Winner at JAG, where Kylie has twice received the Dedication Award.

“Kelly works us hard, but it’s about team bonding, and she makes it fun,” says Kylie. “Coach Devin has coached me since I was little and pushed me to be the best I can be, and Coach Tasha has welcomed me into the new gym and pushes me to my limits.”

While the high school season may be over, Kylie is still in the gym at least three times a week keeping up on her training. She also competes with her club during competition season, which is December to March, and has won a state championship in beam. Looking at her future, Kylie has a goal of qualifying for New Englands before she graduates.

In addition to three days at New Era, Kylie travels to Central Connecticut State University once a week to train with Elite Diving. She started diving in middle school and had a successful freshman season, qualifying for states. Next year, she is hoping to qualify for the State Open.

“Diving is similar to gymnastics, so I

Bicycle Pedestrian Committee

have the air awareness and flipping down,” says Kylie, who is also a member of the Student Athlete Leadership Council and Interact Club. “My club coach, Kim Caruso, has helped me with mental blocks — when I was scared of a skill, she helped me overcome my fear.”

On top of training with club gymnastics and diving, Kylie is also playing lacrosse for North Branford High School. Her family has a deep history with the sport, as her mom played lacrosse in college and her siblings also play. In addition, her brother TJ, who is a junior, also plays hockey, and her sister, Emma, is a seventh-grader who also does gymnastics.

Even though she is just a freshman, Kylie has been on the sidelines of the TBirds’ lacrosse team for as long as she can remember, as her mom, Lori Connelly, is the coach. It is not the first time Kylie will have her mom as her coach — she also coached Kylie’s teams when she was growing up. Kylie started playing at age five and began playing with Dew Lax in fourth grade with Head Coach Dee Stephan.

“My mom has always pushed me to try new things and get better, and Coach Dee taught me different ways to better my game and skills to use in the game to help me get more goals,” says Kylie, who used to play middie but recently switched to attack. “This season I want to make the varsity lineup and hopefully make AllConference. We’ve had a few scrimmages, and I’ve been starting and getting some goals. Hopefully we can make it to the Shoreline Conference Championship and win.”

Branford residents are organizing a Bicycle Pedestrian Committee and are looking for people interested in working to make Branford a more bicycle- and pedestrianfriendly town. Formation of the committee is included in Branford’s 2018 Plan of Conservation and Development. The committee’s responsibilities will include working with the town on a complete streets policy and creating a master plan of bicycle and pedestrian routes in the town. For more information, contact Judy Miller at 203-589-8335 or judithmillerphd@gmail.com.

GAC Opens Registration for 2024 Summer Youth Program

Cast Away! This Saturday, Catch and Keep finally arrives. At stake are about 500,000 trout that will have been stocked through May. Hookups have been exceptional, and by all indications, they will continue. Other waters have seen good largemouth bass action as well as a slew of other fish species that are keeping anglers quite busy. Tidal rivers are expe-

riencing searuns, striped bass, and other migrating fish, as winter flounder surprise fishers with good catches, and blackfish season opens to a rocky start. For more on this very active spring fishery, click over to Captain Morgan’s weekly column featured on zip06.com, and search for “Spring Has Sprung Mixing Fish and Fishers in a Big Way.”

Registration for Guilford Art Center’s Summer Youth Art Program is open. Geared towards nurturing children’s creativity, refining their artistic skills, and fostering meaningful social connections through hands-on activities, the program offers weekly sessions for children ages 5 to 12. The Summer Youth Art Program runs from Monday, June 23, through Friday, Aug. 22. Parents and guardians can choose from morning and afternoon sessions for their children or sign up for bridge care and create the full-day of sessions. For more information, call the Guilford Art Center at 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

CAPTAIN MORGAN’S

Fun By The Numbers

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

Last Week’s Answers

Here’s How It Works:

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

Bread at Home

Living RECIPES

The creation of bread is one of the key developments in human history. Bread is among the most popular foods in the world. Whether it is leavened or unleavened, made into loaves or cakes, baked, steamed, or fried in oil, bread is universal. Bread occupies a prominent place in every civilization. A symbolic foodstuff international in scope, bread is the quintessential human food. Its history underlies a large part of the history of the human race. It connects people to culture, to tradition, and sometimes to religion.

As with much of early civilization, our knowledge of when people first made bread is limited by what evidence is available. The earliest proof we have of humans cooking bread is from 14,000 years ago at a site in Jordan, where scientists uncovered two structures, each containing a large stone fireplace containing the charred remains of breadcrumbs. It is not until around 1700 B.C., however, in Greece, that we find a proliferation of small, clay ovens that indicate not just widespread bread baking in individual households but also commercial bakeries.

During its life cycle, the grain of wheat dies and is reborn months later in the form of a spike capable of providing sustenance

to human beings. This “rebirth” and ability to provide sustenance has become symbolic in religion and culture. Wheat and bread are symbols of the fruitfulness of the earth. In Hebrew, Bethlehem means ”house of bread,” and God sends manna, the symbol of bread, from heaven to sustain the Hebrews as they crossed the desert. The Jewish matzoh is an unleavened bread to celebrate Passover. Many Christian faiths break a loaf of bread as part of their liturgical communion, the reenactment of the Last Supper. Bread also finds symbolic expression in now common phrases surrounding pregnancy and birth, such as having ”a bun in the oven.” Growing up, my family enjoyed bakery bread. After church on Sunday, we would stop at Stanley’s Bakery in East Islip, Long Island, and pick up one loaf of rye and pumpernickel breads and three loaves of white bread, all sliced. In addition, on Sundays, we were treated to hard rolls, crumb cake, and pastries, which accompanied our special weekly brunch. During the week, making school sandwiches for my many siblings was one of the chores I enjoyed. Laying out of the 10 bread slices and layering the lunch ingredients of the day, followed by the top, was both methodical and meditative in the midst of the chaotic environment that was a natural part of readying more than a dozen children for their day. Stanley’s Bakery is still in operation today. Even now, at events that gather my family, one sibling or another will happily make a stealth run to Stanley’s for their famous crumb cake.

See page 27

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan Braided challah and egg wash.

Quick loaves in the oven.

John's crusty bread.

Special to Living

Liz Egan

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan

Finished challah loaves.

with Liz Egan for

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

THURSDAY,

APRIL 10

Rogers and Hammerstein: The Golden Age of Music Theater

: 11 a.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Presented by Alan Mann, artistic director at Opera Theater of Connecticut. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Vincent Van Gogh: From Paris to Arles to Eternity

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

Progressive Leaders of Today (PLOT) Quarterly Meeting

: Noon to 1 p.m. Via Zoom. Features a networking and community event for professionals about age 40 and under. For info or to register (required to receive the Zoom link), email christa@oldsaybrookchamber.com or visit oldsaybrookchamber.com.

Small Business Loans: Issues and Options

: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Online event. Features a panel of lending professionals from a cross section of small business lenders, including Berkshire Bank, the Community Economic Development Fund (CEDF), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and Southeastern Connecticut Enterprise Region (seCTer). Hosted by SCORE Eastern Connecticut Chapter. Free. For info or to register (required), score.org/easternct/local-workshops.

Transitions into Adolescence and Adulthood

: 12:30 to 2 p.m. Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services (OSYFS), 322 Main St. A second session from 6:30 to 8 p.m. also takes place via Zoom. Part of the monthly support group meetings for parents and grandparents of children diagnosed with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger Syndrome. Free and open to residents of Old Saybrook and surrounding towns. For info, or to register, call OSYFS at 860-395-3190 or email counselor Joanne Baker Deal at joannebakerdeal@gmail.com.

Pasta Cooking Class

: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Presented by Matt Yanarella from My Production CT. Participants will learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch. Attendees of the previous ravioli cooking class are requested to allow others to attend this class. For info or to register

(required), call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

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

Molds, Mushrooms, and Mycorrhizae: Fungal Friends and Foes in the Garden

: 6:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Hosted by the Clinton Arbor Garden Club. Presented by Sarah Selke, a master gardener and biology professor at Connecticut State Community College, Three Rivers. For info, call 203710-0133 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Mysteries, Murders, Killers, and Thrillers: Crime Writers Reveal Their Secrets

: 7 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Features a presentation on the process of writing, including book ideas, plot twists, and character development. Presented by writers Pat Dunn, Christine Falcone, Kathleen Kalb, Jamie Kleinkauf, and Ang Pompano. In celebration of National Library Week. Free and open to all. For info or to register (required), call the library at 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

THURSDAY, APRIL 10 THROUGH SATURDAY, APRIL 12

Designers Circus Pop-up Clothing and Accessories Shopping Event

: Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guilford Art Center (GAC), 411 Church St. Features creative women’s clothing from local, national, and international designers at discounted prices. Free admission. Open to the public. For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

FRIDAY, APRIL 11

Osteoporosis, Bone Fractures, Arthritis, and More

11 a.m. Evergreen Woods, 88 Notch Hill Rd., North Branford. Presented by Erin Stockwell, an orthopedic trauma surgeon and assistant professor at Yale School of Medicine; Philip Ratnasamy, a fourth-year medical student at Yale School of Medicine and MBA candidate at Yale School of Management; and Gwyneth Maloy, a medical student at Yale School of Medicine. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Calendar for the Week of April 10, 2025

: Noon to 5 p.m. First Church of Christ, 366 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

: 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features a performance on the church’s 1929 Möller pipe organ by Ezequiel Menéndez, professor of organ at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, and former director of music and organist at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hartford. Sponsored in part by the New London County Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Attendees listen in the sanctuary or on the Town Green as the music is broadcast through the church speakers. Fourth of five Fridays through April 18. Free and open to all. For info, call 203-245-2739, ext. 14, or visit fccmadison.org.

: 1 to 2:15 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For adults, seniors, and homeschoolers ages 15 and up. Covers different genres of writing, including fairy tales, children's stories, letters to the editor, poetry, and personal essays. Other dates: Fridays, April 25, May 9, and May 23. Attendees may try out a particular writing style and attend any date they prefer. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Presentation and Reception for the Publication of

: 4 p.m. Guilford Free Library, 67 Park St. Copies will be available for purchase For info or to register (required), call the library at 203-453-8282 or visit guilfordfreelibrary.org.

Author Event: Colm Tóibín

: 6 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . Cost: $5 includes admission for one and a $5 coupon toward purchase of a copy of the book at the event or $18.99 admission for one and a copy of the book. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Military Whist Game Night The Guilford Papers Plus Long Island: A Novel

: 6:30 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Includes prizes for top players and a raffle. Cost: $15 per player. Advance purchase required. Hosted by the Women's Club of Madison. For info, contact Joan Powers at 917-601-8194 or jonci1@Verizon.net, or visit womensclubmadisonct.com.

See page 28

Green Old Saybrook

Red Cross Blood Drive

Five Fridays Lenten Concert Series

Writers Writing

Continued from page 25

When I was young, bread was 19 cents a loaf. As these many years have passed, while the price has increased with the cost of living, bread has always seemed to be an inexpensive and necessary staple of a family’s shopping list. It is doubtful that the volume of food shopping my parents did in the ‘60s for such a large household could be sustained today. During a chat with my neighbor, who has too young boys, she mentioned that she was going to try baking bread at home to see if she could save money. Bread is made from simple ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. While it takes a bit of practice, making bread at home is inexpensive. And best of all, the creation of bread is centering and embraces all of the senses.

One rainy morning, I decided to try my hand at making braided challah bread. The tradition of challah is a very spiritual one. For observant Jews, it is a way to directly connect with the spiritual energy of God. In fact, baking challah is considered an important blessing in the Jewish home. Known simply as “hallah” in Biblical times, women would tear off a piece of dough and burn it in the fire as an offering. Today, challah is a sweet, braided bread made with eggs, fine white flour, water, yeast, sugar, and salt. It is typically enjoyed on ceremonial occasions such as Shabbat (Sabbath) and major Jewish holidays (other than Passover). The bread is a testament to the ability of a single bread to carry profound cultural and religious significance.

To make challah bread, I used the recipe on Tori Avery’s website, Tori Avery Challah Bread. At her informative site, she shares largely kosher recipes exploring the Mediterranean cuisine, culture, and traditions that she was raised in. It took the making of these two medium loaves to get the braiding part right. Two loaves are more than I can use, so sharing with several neighbors and friends becomes an added benefit. In addition, I had enough dough for a small, braided roll that I ate for lunch. You can also choose to make rolls instead of loaves with this delicious recipe.

My friend John Zachos has been enjoying making bread and sharing it with friends for a good long while. He brought this bread to our home during my husband Paul’s illness, a gift of self and a wish for nourishment and healing. John’s Crusty Bread recipe and the loaf he brought us were the most like artisanal loaves. Crispy crust and chewy inside, well-suited for hearty sandwiches and as an accompaniment to soup. My neighbor’s and my loaf breads are a work in progress but delicious, nonetheless. Her bread was perfect for my personal favorite - peanut butter and jelly on toast. The grilled cheese I made with both of these breads was superb. Leftover homemade bread makes amazing French toast.

Out of curiosity, I estimated the cost of baking bread. While it is not possible to buy just the exact measure of ingredients, I based the final cost on my ability to make all three recipes– that is a lot of bread! A five-pound bag of flour, a 3-pack of Fleischmann’s yeast, and a dozen large eggs - only the challah bread uses eggs, but figured the cost of the eggs would cover the other incidental ingredients needed. The total came to $14.87. Divided into three, it was under $5 for two large loaves of each bread. Bread freezes well. I have divided loaves and placed them in Ziploc freezer bags and stored them for several months. For me, the benefit of baking bread at home is not the savings. The smell of baking bread filling my home provided me with a warm stability that touched my soul. The physical act of creating tapped a portion of my inner self that connected me with this tradition in the history of civ-

illness, a gift of self and a wish for nourishment and healing. He shared an easy favorite recipe, which he adapted from the King Arthur website. He uses a kitchen scale to measure ingredients carefully, which is his secret to this delicious no-fail bread.

454g (2 c. plus a pinch) All Purpose

King Arthur Flour

340g lukewarm water (1-1/2 c.)

9g salt (1 1/2 tsp.)

7g (1 2/3 tsp.) Fleischmann’s instant or active dry yeast [one packet is 2 1/2 Tbsp.]

ilization. Sharing these loaves was a gift of self-connecting me to the kind of life and community I value.

Easy Loaf Bread

Super easy and delicious! Every meal is made better

1 2/3 cup warm water

2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (I used the Fleischmann’s Fast-Acting)

1 tsp sugar

1 Tbsp. honey

1 1/2 Tbsp. butter, soft

4 cup flour

Combine yeast, sugar, and water in a mixing bowl fitted with a dough hook. Mix until foamy, about 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients to mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly 8-10 minutes. (if mixing by hand, mix for 15 minutes).

Grease a large bowl; place dough inside the bowl. Cover with a dish towel and set in a warm place. Let rise until double in size about 30 minutes.

Remove contents of bowl onto floured surface. Punch down dough by folding it over on itself until no longer sticky.

Divide the dough in half and roll into loaves. Another bit of flour may be needed.

Place loaves on oiled bread pan or 13 x 8 pan. Slice a few diagonal lines into the top. Pour a tablespoon of melted butter (or brush and egg wash or olive oil) over the top.

Sprinkle with kosher or coarse sea salt (optional). Bake at 380 degrees for 20 minutes or when tops are golden brown. Serve warm.

Tips

: When measuring flour, scoop from the container

2 1/4 tsp is approximately 1 1/2 packets of yeast. Use a with some warm bread! with a ½ cup measure and drop into a 1 cup measure. Level the top. Repeat for required cups of the recipe; measuring spoon and make sure it is leveled.

No Knead Crusty Loaf

My friend John Zachos has been enjoying making bread and sharing it with friends for a good long while. He brought this bread to our home during my husband Paul’s

In a large bowl or mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine water, yeast, and salt. Mix until combined. Add flour a bit at a time with mixer going or use a large wooden spoon to keep mixing and combining. Once all the flour is added, mix until fully combined. Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface and form into a mound. Place in a large clean bowl or pot greased with oil. Cover with a damp cloth, cover, or plastic wrap and place in a warm spot. Let rise for 90 minutes until it doubles in size. This may take a bit longer depending on weather and humidity. Once the dough rises, turn out onto a floured surface and form into a round mounded loaf. Brush the top with oil or egg white wash. Sprinkle with kosher salt or parmesan cheese (optional). This will help create a crisper crust. Bake for 30 minutes in a 350-degree oven. Make sure it is cooked through by inserting a toothpick until it comes out clean. If necessary, turn oven off, and let bread continue to bake gently as oven cools. Place bread on a wire rack to cool. Place a foil ‘tent’ over the bread if it starts to get too browned.

Notes: If using active yeast, place in a bowl with ¼ c. of lukewarm water and ‘activate’ it by mixing gently and letting sit until it becomes foamy. If using the rapid rise version, simply add it to the liquid ingredients prior to adding the flour.

I learned when I made challah bread that a great place to let dough rise is your oven. Place the large bowl with dough on the center rack. Place a roasting pan with boiling water in the bottom rack and close the door. Do not turn the oven on. Works great!

Quick Honey and Butter Loaf

I can’t remember when or where I acquired this handwritten recipe, but it is made in steps similar to my neighbors’ loaves. The addition of butter and honey adds warm and sweet notes. After I made it, I realized I should have let dough rise more fully and given it a few more minutes to gently bake by leaving it in the over after I shut it off following the allotted cook time.

1 2/3 c. lukewarm water

2 1/4 tsp. instant yeast (1 packet)

1 tsp. sugar

1 Tbsp. honey

1 tsp. salt

1 1/2 Tbsp. softened butter

4 c. flour

Combine yeast, sugar, and water in a mixing bowl and let sit until foamy – 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients to mixing bowl and mix – 15 minutes. Place dough into a greased large clean bowl. Let rise in a warm place until double in size – at least 30 minutes. After dough has risen fully, turn out onto lightly floured surface. Punch down to remove air pockets. Divide dough into 2 loaves and shape into loaves in two separate oven safe dishes or bread pans. Bake at 380 degrees for 20 minutes.

Finished quick loaf.

Photo courtesy of Liz Egan

George Flynn Concerts Presents Isidore String Quartet

On Sunday, May 11, The George Flynn Classical Concerts series presents the Isidore String Quartet. Winner of the 14th Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2022, the New York City-based Isidore String Quartet was formed in 2019 with a vision to revisit, rediscover, and reinvigorate the repertory. The quartet is heavily influenced by the Juilliard String Quartet and the idea of ”approaching the established as if it were brand new, and the new as if it were firmly established.”

The Isidore String Quartet has performed in Chicago, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Washington, Toronto, Edinburg, and Amsterdam and has collaborated with a number of eminent performers, including Jeremy Denk.

Free tickets must be ordered via the georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com website.

Clinton residents can order on a first-come, first-served basis one month before each concert. Non-residents can order two weeks before each concert, depending on availability.

For further information, visit www.georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com www.facebook.com/ GeorgeFlynnClassicalConcerts

Continued from page 26

Annual Shredding Day:

: 7 p.m.

North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd. Features live music, coffee, and a relaxed evening with friends. Tickets: $20. Space is limited. For info or tickets, visit northmadisoncc.org/occasional-coffeehouse.

FRIDAY, APRIL 11 AND SATURDAY, APRIL 12

: Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. For info or tickets, call 860510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 12

59th Annual Easter Egg Hunt

: 10 a.m. Madison Surf Club, 87 Surf Club Rd. Children from pre-K to grade 2 are invited. Hosted by the Madison Exchange Club. Rain date: Saturday, April 19. For info, visit madisonexchange.org/easter-egg-hunt.

The Return of the

: 10 to 11 a.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Alan Poole. Sponsored by Friends of Hammonasset. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.

9 a.m. to noon. Clinton Chamber of Commerce parking lot, 50 E. Main St. Vehicles enter from the Town Hall driveway entrance, 54 E. Main St., and drive around to the Clinton Chamber/Town Annex parking lot. Cost: $10 per copy paper-sized box. Staples and paper clips do not have to be removed. Open to the public. For info, contact 860-669-3889 or chamber@clintonctchamber.com, or visit clintonct.com.

Try Your Hand at Painting and Drawing Workshop (Session A)

: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. A one-day workshop for adult beginners to learn the basics of painting and drawing in a supportive, judgment-free setting. Cost: $44.10 for members, $49 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $5 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Living History Day at the Daffodil Farm

: 10 a.m. to

3 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. Presented by the Cromwell Historical Society and the Dirty Blue Shirts living historians. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.

Annual Spring Craft Fair and Bake Sale

: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., Durham. Features handmade crafts, Easter and spring decor, and an assortment of baked goods. For info, contact the church rectory at 860-349-3058 or scndchurches@comcast.net.

Osprey Day

: Noon to 2 p.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison. Features the opening of a new educational exhibit, . Sponsored by Friends of Hammonasset. No registration needed. For info, call 203-245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.

Fireside Chats with Local Authors: Greg Armstrong and D. W. Alder

Osprey Nest Mad Season Reclaimed Life

: 1 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Books: (Armstrong) and (Alder). Registration is not required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Ethics and Equity in Data Science and Precision Health

: 3 to 4 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Presented by Bhramar Mukherjee, the Anna M.R. Lauder professor of biostatistics and professor of chronic disease epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health. Sponsored by Tilde Café, an interactive platform to demystify science and make it more accessible to the community. For info or to register (required), email admin@tildecafe.org or visit tildecafe.org or blackstonelibrary.org.

Spring Crafts with Natalie: DIY Wildflower Seed Bombs

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For adults. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-7365 or visit scranton.librarycalendar.com.

See page 29

Press Release from the George Flynn Classical Concert Series

Photo courtesy of the George Flynn Classic Concert Series Isidore String Quartet.

The Occasional Coffee House: Sam Robbins

Evening with Garrison Keillor

Osprey

Continued from page 28

Saturday Cinema

: 2 to 4:30 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Free and open to all. Limited seating. Registration is suggested. For info, including the movie title, or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Concert by Slambovian Circus of Dreams

: 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, APRIL 13

Palm Sunday Mass

: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-2457301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.

Palm Sunday Service

: 8:30 and 10 a.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. The blessing of the palms for the 10 a.m. service will take place at the outdoor chapel. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.

Palm Sunday Service

: 10 a.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. For info, call 203-245-2739 or visit fccmadison.org.

Palm Sunday Service

: 10 a.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. A celebration of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem with children carrying palms. For info, visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.

Sunday Broadway Concert Series with John McDaniel and Euan Morton

: 2 p.m. The Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. Ticket subscriptions are available. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, contact the Legacy Theatre at 203-315-1901 or Info@LegacyTheatreCT.org, or visit legacytheatrect.org.

Doox

: 2 to 3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a performance by Doox of Yale, an allgender, tenor and bass a cappella group. For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Concert by Tusk

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

Opening Reception for

The Missing Pictures: Photographs by Sean Kernan

: 4 to 6 p.m. Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library Keyes Gallery 146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford. The show runs through Monday, May 26. For info, call 203-488-8702 or visit wwml.org/gallery.

MONDAY, APRIL 14

Art for All: Make a Matisse

: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Killingworth Library, 31 Rte. 81. For adults and seniors. Presented by Gunnar Johnson, retired graphic designer and journalist. Participants can make a Matisse-inspired collage. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

The Twenties Roar Again!

: 6 to 7 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library Auditorium, 758 Main St., Branford. Features a performance by The Modernistics Trio in celebration of the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, . For info or to register (required), call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

The Great Gatsby

MONDAY, APRIL 14 THROUGH

THURSDAY, APRIL 17

Open House

: Tours begin 9 a.m., 10 a.m., and 1 p.m. The Country School, 341 Opening Hill Rd., Madison. Guests tour the campus while classes are in session, learn about the admission process, and see the programs in action. Free and open to the public. For info or to register, call 203-421-3113 or visit thecountryschool.org.

TUESDAY, APRIL 15

All About Coffee

: 10 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St. Presented by Barry Levine, co-founder and owner of Willoughby’s Coffee and Tea. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

April Mini Vacation Session: Make a Nature House

Noon to 3 p.m. The Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For ages 6 and up. Tuition: $40.50 for members, $45 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $18 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

All CT Reads Book Club

: 2 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. Book: by Etaf Rum. For info or to register, call 860-395-3184 or visit actonlibrary.org.

Evil Eye

Author Event: Chris Whipple in Conversation with Cynthia McFadden

: 6 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book:

Uncharted: How Trump Beat Biden, Harris, and the Odds in the Wildest Campaign in History

. For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Trivia Night

: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. For info, contact 860-6692342 or sudie@hchlibrary.org.

Navigating Menopause: The Town Hall

: 7 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Features a discussion hosted by WTNH-TV news anchor Ann Nyberg. Free admission but tickets are required to attend. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16

What Our DNA Reveals About Our Ancestors

: 10 a.m. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Samantha Miller from the Yale Peabody Museum Speakers Bureau. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $3. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Marketing Strategy and Customer Engagement

: Noon

to 1:30 p.m. Online event. Presented by Margo Weitekamp, a marketing professional and SCORE mentor. Free. Hosted by SCORE Eastern Connecticut. Sponsored by Guilford Savings Bank. For info or to register, visit score.org/easternct.

April Mini Vacation Session: Make a Nature Treasure Box

: Noon to 3 p.m. The Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For ages 6 and up. Tuition: $40.50 for members, $45 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $18 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Red Cross Blood Drive

: Noon to 4:45 p.m. Valley-Shore YMCA, 201 Spencer Plains Rd., Westbrook. For info or an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.

: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Parthenon Diner, 374 Main St., Branford. Features a conversation with members of Shoreline Village CT (SVCT). For info, to RSVP, or to request a ride, contact 203-7475939 or info@ShorelineVillageCT.org.

Shoreline Village Tea and Talk Pop-in Program: Friendship Bracelets

: 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Supplies will be provided. Registration not required. For info, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Acoustic Artists Story Teller Series: The Sweet Polly Duo

: 6 to 7:45 p.m. Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. For participants of all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of Acton Public Library. For info or to register (required), visit actonlibrary.org/events.

Adult Movie Night

: 6 to 8:20 p.m. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. In line with the movie showing, complimentary prohibition-inspired mocktails will be served. For info, including the movie title, or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Author Event: Chloe Barcelou and Brandon Batchelder Holy Wednesday Tenebrae Service

Tales of a Not So Tiny House

: 6:30 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

: 7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.

of Yale A Cappella Concert

Continued from page 29

THURSDAY,

APRIL 17

Spring Break Camp: Historic Voyagers and

RiverQuest

: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Drop off 9 to 9:10 a.m. Pick up 1 p.m. Wear closed-toe footwear and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, water bottle. No nut-based foods. Optional: Bring a hat and sunglasses. Cost: $60 for members, $70 for nonmembers. For info, call 860-7678269, ext. 121, or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Great Decisions: American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads

: 10 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St. Facilitated by Tom Lee, a member and moderator of the Great Decisions discussion group. The program is produced by the Foreign Policy Association. First of four Thursday sessions through May 15. Sponsored by the Schiller Shoreline Institute for Lifelong Learning (SSILL). Open to SSILL members (with an annual membership of $35). Cost: $5 for all four sessions. A $35 fee is required for a 2025 briefing book that covers eight topics for spring and fall semesters. For info or to join SSILL, call 203-453-8086 or visit ssill.org.

Book Club

The Women: A Novel

: Noon to 2 p.m. Atwater Memorial Library Community Room, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Book: by Kristin Hannah. For info or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

April Mini Vacation Session: Make a Magical Nature Window

: Noon to 3 p.m. The Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. For ages 6 and up. Tuition: $58.50 for members, $63 for nonmembers. A materials fee of $18 is payable with the tuition. For info or to register, call 203453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Thursday Services

: 3, 6, and 7 p.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. The 3 p.m. service features the Stations of the Cross in the Memorial Garden. The 6 p.m. features the Agape Meal; attendees are asked to sign up in the Griswold Room. The 7 p.m. features the Holy Eucharist, washing of the feet, and stripping of the altar. For info, contact the church at 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.

: 3:30 to 5 p.m. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For info, including the movie title, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Class

: 4 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 5 to 12. Presented by baker Stacey Britner from The Cookie Jar. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Building Blocks, From Atoms to Anatomy

: 6 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by Yale doctorate students Miranda Margulis-Ohnuna, Aurora Miranda, and Shahank Dattathro. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Brenda Milkofsky Curatorial Fund Dinner

: 6 to 9 p.m.

Old Lyme Country Club, 40 McCurdy Rd., Old Lyme. Features a presentation by Connecticut historian Frank Mitchell on "Radiance from the Waters: Late 19th-Century Shipboard Performances. Tickets start $125. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Agape Meal

: 6:30 p.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 50 Emmanuel Church Rd., Killingworth. An event to commemorate Jesus’ last meal and reflect on His commandment to love one another. For info, email roseprel@gmail.com or visit churchinthewilderness.org.

Author Event: Gina Barreca

Women: 75 Essays of Flash Nonfiction

Let's Make Old-Fashion Greeting Cards

: 11 a.m. to

3 p.m. Halfinger Farms and Dancing Daffodils, 489 Candlewood Hill Rd., Higganum. For info, visit halfingerfarms.com.

The Plant Doctor is In: Flower Disease 101

: Noon to

2 p.m. Nathanael Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Presented by Nick Goltz, director of the UConn Plant Diagnostic Lab. Goltz teaches plant pathology in the UConn Extension Master Gardener program. Part of the Leete’s Island Garden Club's monthly meeting. For info or to register (required), contact 203-4530780 or kayclaiborn@comcast.net.

: 630 p.m. R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Book: . For info or to register (required), call 203-245-3959 or visit rjjulia.com.

Author Event: Howard Fishman

Fast Famous

Good Friday Services

To Anyone Who

Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse

: 6:30 p.m. Masonicare at Chester Village, 317 W. Main St. Book: . Sponsored by the Chester Public Library. For info or to register, contact 860-526-0018 or library@chesterct.org.

Maundy Thursday Mass

: 7 p.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-245-7301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.

Maundy Thursday Service

: 7 p.m. First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. For info, call 203-245-2739 or visit fccmadison.org.

Maundy Thursday Service

: 7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. Includes the traditional washing of the feet. The service is followed by an overnight watch. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.

Shoreline Sailing Club Meeting

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

Comedy Show by Tim Cotter

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

FRIDAY, APRIL 18

AARP Smart Driver Course

: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Joyce C. Budrow Senior Center, 189 Pool Rd., North Haven. Features a refresher course specifically designed for drivers 50 years and up. The class is held on select dates each month. The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) will sponsor this class. For other dates, the cost is $20 for AARP members, $25 nonmembers. Payment is due on the day of the class by check made to AARP. Bring your driver’s license. For info or to register, call 203-239-5432.

: Noon and 3 p.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. The noon service features the liturgy with reserved Sacrament. The 3 p.m. features the Stations of the Cross. For info, contact the church at 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.

Five Fridays Lenten Concert Series

: 12:15 to 12:45 p.m.

First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. Features a performance on the church’s 1929 Möller pipe organ by Nathan Bayreuther, director of music ministry at First Congregational Church of Madison. Sponsored in part by the New London County Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Attendees listen in the sanctuary or on the Town Green as the music is broadcast through the church speakers. Last of five Fridays in the series. Free and open to all. For info, call 203245-2739, ext. 14, or visit fccmadison.org.

Good Friday Service and Holy Communion

: 3 p.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-245-7301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.

Mission to the Moon: Launch It!

: 3:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. For children ages 8 to 12. Participants will learn about the engineering design process with a hands-on design challenge building an air-powered rocket that can hit a distant target. Presented by educators from the Society of Women Engineers. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Tenebrae Service

: 7 p.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 50 Emmanuel Church Rd., Killingworth. Features a solemn candle lighting and ending in silence and darkness. For info, email roseprel@gmail.com or visit churchinthewilderness.org.

Good Friday Service

: 7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.

Good Friday Tenebrae

: 7 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. Features a reading of Jesus’ walk to the cross and crucifixion and extinguishing of candles to accompany Him into the darkness of the tomb. For info, contact the church at 203421-3241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.

See page 32

Maundy

Movie Matinee

Kids' Cookie Decorating

Madison Lyric Stage Presents World Premiere of ‘A Memory of Truth?’

Press Release from Madison Lyric Stage

Madison Lyric Stage (MLS), a professional theater company on the Connecticut shoreline, will present the world premiere of , an original play with music for four performances May 9 to 11 at the MLS theater tent on the ground of Madison’s Deacon John Grave House.

A Memory of Truth?

This compelling new work by Marc Deaton is an evocative exploration of memory, truth, and the complex ties of family. Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest, the play spans the 1950s to the 1990s, tracing the lives of three women—Delilah and her daughters, Dinah and Eve—through the lens of Thaddius, Dinah’s son. The narrative unfolds through a series of scenes that reveal deeply held secrets, betrayals, and unspoken loyalties, offering an emotionally raw and thought-provoking experience.

“This play is extremely personal to me as it is inspired by my own life and family growing up,” said Deaton, artistic director of Madison Lyric Stage. ”I hope audiences will join us for this extraordinary theatrical event that challenges perceptions, evokes deep emotions, and contemplates the nature of truth itself.” is more than just a

A Memory of Truth?

Continued from page 30

play—it is a theatrical and musical journey, incorporating traditional hymns, Gregorian chant, and inspirations from Mozart and Fauré, all composed and arranged by Nathaniel Baker. The fusion of drama and music intensifies the themes of human cruelty and survival, making for an unforgettable performance that is both harrowing and humorous, deeply poignant and profoundly resonant.

The play features a cast of eight representing four characters in two generations, with Susan Kulp and Allison Waggener as Dinah, Catherine Cavender and Allison Lindsay as Eve, and Debi Freund and Mary McCue as Delilah. Logan Clingan and Marc Deaton share the role of Thaddius. The performance will also feature a four-piece orchestra conducted by Nathaniel Baker.

A Memory of Truth?

will be presented in cooperation with Madison Youth and Family Services (MYFS), with onsite fundraising opportunities for MYFS’s Back to School program, which provides critical support in the form of supplies and gift cards to local students from families experiencing financial hardship.

A Memory of Truth?

Tickets for are $40 and are available at madisonlyricstage.org. The Deacon John Grave House is located at 581 Boston Post Road in Madison.

: 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.

: 8 to 9 p.m. Via Zoom. For artists and creative individuals to have time for quiet reflection, journaling, or creative thinking. Led by Margaret McNellis. Free. For info, visit artandastrology.substack.com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 18 AND

SATURDAY, APRIL 19

: Friday, 8 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. North Madison Congregational Church (NMCC), 1271 Durham Rd. Churchgoers take shifts to keep watch while Jesus is entombed. For info, contact the church at 203-421-3241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.

May 9 to 11 at the MLS theater tent on the ground of Madison’s Deacon John Grave House.

FRIDAY, APRIL 18 THROUGH

SUNDAY, APRIL 20

Easter Flower Sale

: Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Northford Community Church, 4 Old Post Rd. Features various Easter flowers and baked goods for sale. For info, call the church at 203484-0795 or visit northfordcommunity.church.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19

Fifth Annual Shredding Day

: 9 a.m. to noon. Old Saybrook High School parking lot, 1111 Boston Post Rd. Cost: $10 per copy paper box. No appointment necessary. Rain or shine. Sponsored by Old Saybrook Rotary Club. Proceeds benefit Rotary Club programs in the towns of Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Lyme, and Old Lyme. For info, contact John Aforismo at 860-794-5009 or johnaforismo07@gmail.com or visit OSRotary.org.

Spring Shredding Event

: 9 a.m. to noon. Clinton Chamber of Commerce parking lot, 50 E. Main St. Vehicles enter from the Town Hall driveway entrance at 54 E. Main

St. and continue around to the Clinton Chamber/Town Annex parking lot. Cost: $10 for each copy paper-sized box. Staples and paper clips do not have to be removed. Open to the public. For info, call 860-669-3889 or visit clintonct.com.

Beginner Yoga Class

: 9:30 a.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. First in a two-part beginner yoga series. Second session takes place Saturday, April 26. Presented by yoga instructor Lana Beluge. Bring a yoga mat. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Food Sale

: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Adams Hometown Market, 193 Main St, Deep River. Hosted by the Deep River 60 Club. Proceeds benefit local organizations, including the Deep River Ambulance Association. For info or to register, call 860-767-2302.

Photo courtesy of Madison Lyric Stage

Madison Lyric Stage will present the world premiere of A Memory of Truth?, an original play with music for four performances

Concert by Tom DiMenna and Friends: Story Songs of the 70s

Lunar Praxis: A Creative Gathering

Easter Vigil: Keeping Watch

Insects and Water

: 10 to 11 a.m. Meigs Point Nature Center, 1288 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Presented by Julie Michaelson, a pollinator conservation specialist and USDA NRCS partner biologist. Sponsored by Friends of Hammonasset. For info or to register (required), call 203245-8743 or visit meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar.

Painting with Pastels

: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guilford Art Center, 411 Church St. Cost: $37.80 for members, $42 for nonmembers. For info or to register, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Family Storytelling

: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Killingworth Library, 301 Rte. 81. For children ages 5 and up and their parent, grandparent, or other adult family member. Participants will write and illustrate their tales. Write the stories by hand or bring a laptop if preferred. Space is limited. For info or to register (required), call 860-663-2000 or visit killingworthlibrary.org.

Open House

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

Clothing Swap for Teens and Adults

call the library at 860-767-1560. For info, visit youressexlibrary.org.

RiverQuest Earth Day Cruise

: Departs 3 p.m. from Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Features Jeremiah Foley, who works on the management of invasive aquatic species throughout Connecticut. Cost: $25 general admission, $20 for members. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org/waterfront.

Holy Saturday Service

: 5 p.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. The service takes place in the Memorial Garden. For info, contact the church at 860434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.

Holy Saturday Liturgy and Communion

: 7 p.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. The service begins in the outdoor chapel with the kindling of the new fire (a symbol of the Resurrection) followed by the lighting of the pascal candle. Congregants will then process to the church. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.

Sweet Saturday Nights: John Charland with Luke Molina

: 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.

Holy Saturday/Easter Vigil Mass

: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Henry Carter Hull Library, 10 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. Bring clean, wearable items to share, and take home something new-to-you while connecting with fellow community members. For info, call 860-669-2342 or visit hchlibrary.org.

Frames in Film:

Georgia O'Keefe: The Brightness of Light

: 1 p.m. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St., Old Saybrook. Shown on The Kate’s big screen, in collaboration with the Florence Griswold Museum. Running time: 120 minutes. For info or tickets, call 860-510-0453 or visit thekate.org.

Teen Cooking Workshop With Pastry Chef Jillian Simms

: 1 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. All materials provided. Free and open to all ages 13 to 18. Disclose allergies at registration. For info or to register (required), call the library at 860-767-1560 or visit youressexlibrary.org.

Fireside Chats with Local Authors: Wendy Haller

The Flannigan Girls: A Novel Bad Dreams, Bad Dreams Go Away

Prepare with Pedro Madison Inventors

: 1 to

3 p.m. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Books: and . Registration is not required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

: 8 p.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-2457301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.

by Big Fat Combo and The Manchurians

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

SUNDAY, APRIL 20

Easter Sunday Sunrise Worship and Celebratory Service

: 6 and 10 a.m. Behind the Madison Beach Hotel, 94 W. Wharf Rd. Hosted by the First Congregational Church of Madison, 26 Meetinghouse Ln. The church will also have a 10 a.m. celebratory service in the sanctuary. An Easter egg hunt follows the service. All are welcome. For info, call 203-245-2739 or visit fccmadison.org. :

Easter Sunrise Service and Traditional Easter Service

6 and 10 a.m. North Guilford Congregational Church, 159 Ledge Hill Rd. The 6 a.m. service takes place in the front lawn and is followed by breakfast with hot coffee and tea. The 10 a.m. service will be held in the sanctuary and will feature a full choir, guest singers directed by Hallie Sorensen, and guest musicians, Sue Saltus (organ), Jeff Ostroski (trumpet), and Frank May (trombone). The service is followed by a multigenerational Easter egg hunt hosted by the Christian Education Committee. For info, call the church office at 203-457-0581 or visit northguilforducc.org.

Easter Sunrise Service

consist of song, Scripture readings, and liturgy. Free and open to all. Bring a lawn chair and dress according to the weather for this casual outdoor service. For info, call the United Methodist Church of Clinton at 860-669-8396 or the First Church of Christ Clinton at 860-669-5735.

Easter Sunrise Service

: 7 a.m. Summer Hill Cemetery, east of the Routes 79 and 80 circle. Features music, readings, and prayer in celebration of Easter. Hosted by the North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd. For info, contact the church at 203-421-3241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.

Easter Sunday Mass

: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy St., Madison. For info, call 203-2457301 or visit stmargaretchurch.com.

Easter Sunday Services

: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 232 Durham Rd. (Rte. 79), Madison. For info, call 203-245-2584 or visit standrewsmadison.org.

Easter Services

: 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Saint Ann’s Church, 82 Shore Rd., Old Lyme. Features the Eucharist Rite 2 with choir. For info, contact the church at 860-434-1621 or office@saintannsoldlyme.org, or visit saintannsoldlyme.org.

Easter Services

: 9 to 9:30 a.m. Madison Surf Club (at the flagpole), 87 Surf Club Rd. Features a brief service for all ages. Hosted by Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society (SUUS). The event is followed by a traditional Easter brunch at 9:30 a.m. at the SUUS fellowship hall, 297 Boston Post Road, and a multigenerational service at 10:30 a.m. featuring a message theme, “Light of the World.” For info, contact 203-245-8720 or office@shorelineunitarian.org or visit shorelineunitarian.org/worship.

Easter Sunday Service

: 10 a.m. North Madison Congregational Church, 1271 Durham Rd. For info, contact the church at 203-421-3241 or office@northmadisioncc.org, or visit northmadisoncc.org/lent.

Celebration of Christ’s Resurrection

: 10 a.m.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 50 Emmanuel Church Rd., Killingworth. Features an event when children flower the cross, followed by a children’s egg hunt. For info, email roseprel@gmail.com or visit churchinthewilderness.org.

Osprey/Eagle Cruise

ONGOING EVENTS

Art Exhibits

Andrews Memorial Town Hall: RiverQuest

: 2:30 p.m. Essex Library, 33 West Ave. Presented by educators from the American Red Cross. Children in K to grade 2 will learn to identify the best ways to stay safe during emergencies, use coping skills to help manage stress, and use their knowledge to act as advocates for preparedness. To register (required),

: 6:30 a.m. Pavilion at Clinton Town Beach, Waterside Lane. Co-hosted by the United Methodist Church of Clinton and the First Church of Christ Clinton. Features a joint annual service, which will

: Departs 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. from Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Cost: $50. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org/waterfront.

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

Clinton Art Society 2025 Winter Juried Members Artists Show

: Runs through April 24.

Continued from page 32 See page 35

Concert

Opera Theater Announces Season-Opening Concert

Opera Theater of Connecticut (OTC) is pleased and excited to be starting its 40th year of producing professional opera on the Connecticut Shoreline for music lovers from across the state and the country. OTC is the oldest opera company in Connecticut and a destination performing arts company.

Melodies of Spring

To start their Ruby Anniversary Season, OTC presents on Sunday, May 4, a fundraising concert that will sing the praises of the seasons, love, and glorious music.

The concert begins at 4 p.m. at the Lutheran Church of Madison, 9 Britton Lane, in Madison.

Eric Trudel will accompany the ensemble of professional singers performing a variety of opera, operetta, and musical theater pieces.

OTC Artistic Director Alan Mann will serve as master of cer-

emonies and chief raconteur, punctuating the concert with witty and informative commen-

tary. Projected slides will provide translations of the pieces as needed.

Enjoy wine, cheese, and other delights at a post-performance reception.

General admission tickets are $40 and may be ordered by visiting operatheaterofct.org or calling the office at 860-669-8999.

Later this season, OTC presents Wine, Women, and Song, an annual event, starting at 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 22, once more at the Woodwinds Banquet Hall, Branford, an afternoon of select fine wines, substantial buffet stations, thrilling singers, and witty commentary.

And to celebrate their 40th year of producing affordable opera in an intimate setting, OTC presents the operetta classic comedy , sung in English, and with its witty dialogue, originally written in 1874, updated by Alan Mann to parody contemporary events. opens on Thursday evening, Aug. 7, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9 and 10, 2025. Visit operatheaterofct.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

Die Fledermaus

Continued from page 34

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) Gallery

Main St.: For info, contact 203-433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org.

Branford Elementary School Art Show

: Runs April 23 through April 28.

Walsh Middle School Art Show

: Runs May 1 through May 10.

Branford High School Art Show

: Runs May 12 through May 27.

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance (BACA) Fine Art Gallery

: 1004

Susan Powell Fine Art

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

Spring into Art

: Runs through April 26.

Vincent Giarrano: City Color

: Runs May 2 through May 31.

David Dunlop: Quest for Radiance

: Runs June 6 through July 6.

Willoughby Wallace Memorial Library Keyes Gallery

The Missing Pictures: Photographs by Sean Kernan

146 Thimble Islands Rd., Branford: For info, call 203-4888702 or visit wwml.org/gallery. : Runs April 11 through May 26.

Seaview Bistro at Water's Edge Resort & Spa

: 1525

Boston Post Rd., Westbrook. For info, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com.

Fridays and Saturdays: 9 p.m. to midnight. Various performers.

The Choo Choo Lounge at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina:

2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook. For info, call 860-3952000.

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

The Highliner III:

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

BACA West Winter 2025 Gallery Exhibition

: 360 State St., New Haven: For info, contact 203433-4071 or baca06405@gmail.com, or visit branfordarts.org/events. : Runs through April 30.

Flat Rock Gallery

: 314 Flat Rock Place, Westbrook: For info, contact 203-421-6739 or office@shorelinearts.org.

Future Choices 2025 Exhibition

: Runs through April 11 and April 23 through April 27.

Guilford Art Center (GAC)

: 411 Church St.: For info, call 203-453-5947 or visit guilfordartcenter.org.

Dear Mother

: Runs May 2 through June 1.

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

Yale University Art Gallery

: 1111 Chapel St., New Haven. For info, call 203-432-0600 or visit artgallery.yale.edu/visit/exhibitions. Runs through June 22

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

The Shore Line Trolley Museum:

David Goldblatt: No Ulterior Motive:

Music

Bill’s Seafood Restaurant:

Rte. 1, Westbrook. For info, call 860-399-7224 or visit BillsSeafood.com.

First and third Wednesdays: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Corinthian Jazz Band.

Fridays: 7 to 9 p.m. Bill’s Seafood All-Star Jazz Band. Saturdays: 7 to 10 p.m. Various performers. Sundays: 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Various performers.

Edward A. Norton VFW Post 7666:

104 Mill Rd., Guilford. No cover. For info, call 203-214-5874. Mondays: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Big Swing Band with Tuxedo Junction.

17 River St., East Haven. Cost: $5 suggested donation. For info, call 203467-6927 or visit shorelinetrolley.org.

First Tuesday: 6 to 9 p.m. Bluegrass acoustic and traditional music.

The Wharf:

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

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

Press Release from Opera Theater of Connecticut

Photo courtesy of Opera Theater of Connecticut Opera Theater of Connecticut celebrates its 40th season.

Real estate

A Captivating Colonial

This captivating Colonial in the heart of North Guilford is 2,800 square feet, located on a 1.9-acre lot. This residence is being built on one of the seven parcels

The main floor offers an open-concept kitchen and great room, perfect for entertaining the family. The formal dining room and office are located on the

attached bathroom that includes a soaking tub and walk-in shower.

The laundry room is located on the second floor, along with the two additional bedrooms and a second full bath.

There is a bonus room on the second floor, which is perfect for multi-purpose use. There is also a walk-up unfinished attic and a full walk-out basement.

This home is being offered for sale by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices for $930,000. For more information or a showing, contact Matty Murchison at 203-7395650.

This captivating colonial in the heart of North Guilford is 2,800 sq ft, located on a 1.9-acre lot. This residence is being built on one of the seven parcels of the Mountain View subdivision on Jans Way.

Staff Report

The main floor offers an open-concept kitchen and great room, perfect for entertaining the family.

The main floor offers an open-concept kitchen and great room, perfect for entertaining the family. The formal dining room and office are located on the first floor with one half bath.

BRANFORD

39 Holmes Street

: Vincent and Judite Lucatino to Jackeline M. Tazza and Luis A. Diaz, $325,000 on March 17

961 Boston Post Road

420 East Main Street Unit 12

: Patrick-Connell Lt and Teresa Patrick to Vital Spaces LLC, $128,500 on March 18

185 Pine Orchard Road

: Kenneth A. and Joan W. Delfini to Richard J. and Ruth L. Marinshaw, $1,350,000 on March 20

NORTH BRANFORD

3 Lucia Lane

: 108 Old Post LLC to Antonio V. Gagliardi, $898,008 on March 17

EAST HAVEN

35 Boxford Street

: Toms Properties LLC to Carol Desena, $315,000 on March 18

25 Canna Drive

: 25 Canna Drive LLC to Ramesshbhai A. and Jayshreeben R. Patel, $385,000 on March 18

254 Cosey Beach Road

: Joanne Depalma to Regina F. Schild, $850,000 on March 17

509 Foxon Road

: Estate of Todd M. Curtis and Heidi Dalaker to Richard I. Decicco, $315,000 on March 21

98 Henry Street

: Nicole M. Marchitto to Aaron Manning and Andrea Waller, $300,000 on March 20

564 Laurel Street

: Jose Torres to Carlos G. and Caleo A. Ruiz, $300,000 on March 18

5 Mansfield Grove Road Unit 151

Greg and Richard Depaola to Luis and Marilyn Rosa, $340,000 on March 20

443 Thompson Avenue

: Mary K. Quinlan to Patrick Maher and Qiong Xiang, $180,000 on March 19

140 Thompson Street Unit 11D

: Estate of Sheila F. Sullivan and Kevin Sullivan to Sean J. Sullivan and Kathleen Frawley, $510,000 on March 19

25 Fence Creek Drive

: Kathryn L. and Anthony R. Tutino to Alexandre Demetrio RET and Alexandre Demetrio, $2,000,000 on March 20

436 Opening Hill Road

: Stephen and Jennifer Sebetic to Gaston Carreno, $348,000 on March 20

83 Scotland Avenue

: Lucas

1 Docs Hill Road

: Fred Caffarelli to Dennis and Maureen Briand, $692,350 on March 17

931 Old Clinton Road Unit 8

Joann Vitkovsky to Nasser Nasser, $250,000 on March 19 :

Mainiero to Ellen J. St Pierre, $560,000 on March 17

64 Thompson Street Unit 107A

Kelly Professional Ctr LL to Bennick LLC, $265,000 on March 19

GUILFORD

39 Gamma Avenue

: Scott and Donna Tosta to Luke and Kimberly Zaleski, $550,000 on March 21

1607 Great Hill Road

: Kelly Roberts and Citizens Bank Na to Zayd Construction LLC, $333,000 on March 19

184 Old Sachems Head Road

Karen A. Owen to Williwaw LLC, $965,000 on March 21

560 State Street

: Stephen W. and Elizabeth A. Page to Amanda Uscilla and Brandon Cain, $564,900 on March 17

19 Wauwinet Court Unit 19

G. Rivera to Loren J. Jacobson, $202,500 on March 20

: Erica

MADISON

33 Beaver Pond Road

: Alexandre

Demetrio to Jenna and Christopher A. Maloney, $940,000 on March 18

CLINTON

18 Fox Hill Drive

: Rachel U. Manemeit to Karl Herman, $465,000 on March 21

5 Indian Drive

: Pierre M. and Penelope Hill to Darren and Laureen Eller, $620,000 on March 17

1 Partridge Lane

: Recreational Mktg Assoc I to Ana M. Ambuludi, $430,000 on March 20

23 Plymouth Court

: Estate of Edward C. Armour Jr and Elizabeth Deyoung to Clinton Town Of, $208,000 on March 21

OLD SAYBROOK

73 Ayers Point Road

: Edward R. Warley to Robert S. Springer and Maria G. Luis, $625,000 on March 21

35 Owaneco Trail

: Teresa R. Curry to Thomas R. and Janet A. Sponzo, $515,000 on March 17

Barbara Aaron and Jeffrey A. Nese to Timothy G. Gregoire and Candace Obrien, $549,000 on March 18 : Rose C. Hosking to Kevin Obrien and Rachel Cyr, $180,000 on March 17

: Noreen A. Leopardi to Jeffrey M. Scheinblum and Maureen C. Mcguire, $193,888 on March 17 : Cynthia Sullivan to Steven D. Crabtree, $642,000 on March 21 : Kevin P. Moran to Jonathan Lowe and Yeou H. Yu, $349,999 on March 18

Continued from page 35

Groups and Activities Art Critique Series (Special-Themed Session):

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

Ask-A-Lawyer: A Free Legal Clinic:

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Banned Book Club:

6:30 to 7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. For info, call 203-488-1441 or visit blackstonelibrary.org.

Bereaved Parents USA and PS It Hurts Support Group:

10:30 a.m. First Sunday. Madison Senior Center, 29 Bradley Rd. For grieving parents, grandparents, and siblings suffering the loss of children and family members. For info, call Vanessa Pentz at 203-645-7777.

Bingo

: 7 p.m. Mondays. East Creek Landing, 390 S. Union St., Guilford. Doors open 5 p.m. Light refreshments. Cost: $15. Hosted by the Knights of Columbus Council 3928. For info, call 203-453-2801.

Bingo:

7 p.m. Tuesdays. St Therese Church, 555 Middletown Ave. North Haven. For info, visit stelizabethofthetrinity.org.

Blackstone Fiber Art Community:

6 to 8.m. Wednesdays. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. All experience levels in fiber art forms are welcome. Registration is not required, drop-ins welcome. For info, call 203-4881441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Blackstone Library Tour:

10 a.m. Second Saturday. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Registration encouraged, but drop-ins welcome. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Book Club:

Noon to 2 p.m. Third Thursday. Atwater Memorial Library Community Room, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. For info, including book titles, or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Breastfeeding Support Meeting:

9:30 a.m. Second Wednesday. Grace and St. John’s Episcopal Church, 2927 Dixwell Ave., Hamden. Sponsored by the La Leche League of Hamden/North Haven. For info or to RSVP, email Anne.M@LLLCT.org or visit lllct.org/hamdennorthhaven.

Chair Yoga with Martha:

6:30 p.m.

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

Christ Episcopal Church Choir

Rehearsal:

7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays. Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 11 Park St., Guilford. For info, email admin@christchurchguilford.org.

Christian Science Church Service and Sunday School:

10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sundays. First Church of Christ, Scientist, 49 Park St., Guilford. Open to all. For info, call 203-453-1975 or visit christian-scienceCT.org/Guilford.

Christian Science Testimony Meeting:

7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays. First Church of Christ, Scientist, 49 Park St., Guilford. Open to all. For info, call 203453-1975 or visit christian-scienceCT.org/Guilford.

Coastal Camera Club Meeting:

7 p.m.

First and third Wednesdays. Via Zoom. To register (required), contact wfrprs@att.net. For info, visit coastalcameraclub.org.

Color and Conversation:

6 to 7:30 p.m.

Last Monday. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Registration is not required. For info, call 203-4881441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

Craft of the Month:

6 to 7:30 p.m. First Tuesday. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. For info or to register, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Creative Craft Night

: 6 p.m. Tuesdays. Creative Loft at the E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Family Day Set for April 26

The Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center invites families to an afternoon of fun and discovery at its annual Family Day on Saturday, April 26, from 1 to 5 p.m. This community event will take place along the banks of the Lieutenant River, offering an exciting lineup of activities for all ages. Families can enjoy a variety of engaging experiences, including science experiments, nature building, games, crafts, and plein air painting along the river. At 3 p.m., local band Sunny Train will take the stage, providing live music and entertain-

Discussion Group: The Atlantic Magazine:

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

ment, including giant bubbles that are sure to delight attendees of all ages. The Lions Club will also be on-site, offering hamburgers and hot dogs for purchase throughout the afternoon.

Family Day will be held at the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center in Old Lyme. The cost is $10 per family, and while registration is recommended, it is not required. Families can register online in advance or pay at the door on the day of the event.

For more information and to register, visit www.ctaudubon.org/2025/03/registerfamily-day-4-26-25.

ticipants create poetry from art. No registration required. For info, call 203-2457365 or visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Exploring Our Grief Journey: A Grief Support Group:

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group:

Duplicate Bridge:

12:30 p.m. Fridays.

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Second Thursday. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Free. For info or to register, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Joseph Trapasso Community House, 46 Church St., Branford. For info, call 203915-5987 or email tillerjock@gmail.com.

Ekphrastic Poetry Trust:

3 to 4:30 p.m.

Second Tuesday. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Par-

6 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays. James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Registration is not required. For info, call 203-488-1441, ext. 318, or visit events.blackstonelibrary.org.

See page 39

Photo courtesy of Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center

The Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center invites families to an afternoon of fun and discovery at its annual Family Day on Saturday, April 26.

Press Release from the Roger Tory Peterson Estuary Center

BLT Speaker Series Continues for Earth Day

Have you noticed more and more dead trees in our state? What’s going on, and how can you help? Explore answers on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m. with forester David Irvin from the DEEP Forestry Division. His presentation on Forest Health in an Era of Climate Change is part of the Branford Land Trust Winter Speaker Series and will be held at the Blackstone Memorial Library.

This important presentation discusses the latest slew of forest health pests and pathogens and how climate change tends to exacerbate the impacts of insects, disease, and weather on the overall health of our forests. What’s going on, and what can be done? Irvin will also explain how forests can be made more diverse and resilient to better withstand the onslaught of new environmental challenges.

David Irvin is a forester for the DEEP Forestry Division. He has been a professional forester for 34 years in several states. For most of his 28 years with DEEP, he has been responsible for the management of specific state forests in the northwest hills of Connecticut. He has actively participated in forest fire control both here in the state and nationally, as needed. From 2020 to 2024, he handled most social media outreach work for the Forestry Division. In 2024, David left the

State Lands Management Program of the Forestry Division to cross over to the Private and Municipal Lands Program. He now provides advice and assistance to private landowners, municipalities, and land trusts in the Central one-third of Connecticut.

This event and the Winter Speaker Series events are free and open to the public. It will be held in person at the Blackstone Library, 758 Main Street, Branford.

The Branford Land Trust Winter 2025 Speaker Series is made possible by a grant from the Branford Community Foundation and Guilford Savings Bank. Save the Date for our Annual Meeting presentation: “Insects and Water” with Julie Michaelson (May 12).

The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, established in 1967 to protect Branford’s open space and natural resources. Run by volunteers and supported by member families and businesses, the Land Trust maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, and manages and protects over 1,000 acres in more than 130 parcels and holds conservation easements on another 400 acres in Branford. For more information and to become a member, visit www.branfordland trust.org.

Continued from page 38

Family Support Group:

6 p.m. First Monday. Via Zoom. Offered by BHcare. A group for family members and caregivers who assist people through their journey of mental wellness. For info, call 203-8007177 or visit BHcare.org.

Guilford Job Network Meeting:

7 to 8:30 p.m. Second and fourth Wednesdays. Via Zoom. Includes guest speaker. All job seekers are welcome. For info or to register (required), call 203-457-0121 or email RussAllen2@aol.com.

Harrison House Museum Tours:

1 to

4 p.m. Saturdays. Harrison House Museum, Barn, and Gardens, 124 Main St., Branford. Open to the public. Free admission but donations are welcome. Runs through September or by appointment. For info, contact 203-488-4828 or info@branfordhistoricalsociety.org.

Maker Meet-up:

6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. E.C. Scranton Memorial Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. No registration required. All ages welcome. For info, visit scrantonlibrary.org.

Monday Night Mah-jongg:

6 to 8 p.m.

Mondays. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. Some previous knowledge or experience is helpful, but beginners are welcome. Bring your own mah-jongg set. For info or to register, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Movie Matinee:

1 to 3:30 p.m. Third Friday. Edward Smith Library, 3 Old Post Rd., Northford. For info, including the movie title, call 203-484-0469 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

NAMI Shoreline Family Support Group

7 p.m. Last Wednesday. Nathanael B. Greene Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Facilitators trained by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer peer-led support to adults caring for a loved one ages 18 and over experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. For info, call 860-8760236 or visit namishoreline.org.

Needle Arts Group:

10 a.m. to noon.

Wednesdays. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. For info, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Noon Meditation Music:

Noon to 12:30 p.m. Fridays. Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 11 Park St., Guilford. For info, email admin@christchurcguilford.org.

Parkinson's Disease Support Group Meeting

: 1 to 3 p.m. First Saturday. Branford Community House, 46 Church St. Includes guest speakers and care partner sharing sessions. For info, email allysonk11@yahoo.com.

Pat’s Picks Movie Club:

1 p.m. Second Thursday. Atwater Memorial Library community room, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. Free. For info, including movie titles, or to register, call 203-315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Poetry Cafe:

11 a.m. to noon. First and third Saturdays. Via Zoom. Sponsored by the James Blackstone Memorial Library, 758 Main St., Branford. Free. To register (required), visit blackstonelibrary.org. For info, email programs@blackstonelibrary.org.

Prayer Shawl Ministry:

10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. United Methodist Church, 811 E. Main St., Branford. For info, contact the church at 203-488-0549 or umcbranford1966@gmail.com, or visit umcbranford.org.

Quilters Club:

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays. Atwater Memorial Library, 1720 Foxon Rd., North Branford. For info, call 203315-6020 or visit northbranford.librarycalendar.com.

Theater

Yale Repertory Theatre, 1120 Chapel St., New Haven. Runs April 25 through May 17. For info, call 203-4321234 or visit yalerep.org.

Notes on Killing Seven Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Board Members: Shrek The Musical

: Cabaret on Main Theater, 597 Main St., East Haven. Runs April 25 through May 11. For info, call 203-2089592 or visit cabaret-on-main.com.

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.

Photo courtesy of the Branford Land Trust David Irvin from the DEEP Forestry Division will present on Forest Health in an Era of Climate Change is part of the Branford Land Trust Winter Speaker Series.

Press Release from the Branford Land Trust

Elan Gorshein, DO Medical Oncology

Arlene Mingione, RN Medical Oncology

Su Hsien Lim, MD Medical Oncology

Daniel Hicks, MD Radiation Oncology

The most advanced cancer treatments. Delivered

The best available cancer care is closer to home than you might think. 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 Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. All right here in the places that you and your family call home. Because at Smilow Cancer Hospital, we’re committed to treating you with the greatest of care.

Specialty Services: Clinical Trials; Breast Center; Genetic Testing; Medical, Surgical, and Radiation Oncology; Hematology; Advanced Diagnostic Imaging; Lung Cancer Screening; Oncology Pharmacy; Lab and Infusion Services; Survivorship Planning; Nutrition Counseling; Palliative Care; Patient and Family Support

Smilow Cancer Hospital–Guilford Shoreline Medical Center

111 Goose Lane

Guilford, CT 06437

203-453-9192

SmilowCancerHospital.org

The Sound 04-10-25

Budget Heads to RTM with 2.1% Tax Hike, Reduced Mill Rate

Way to ‘Bee’

Person of the Week Maureen Carr: Shining Through

There’s Still Time

BHS Class of 1975 50th Reunion

BRANFORD

Obituaries

Wanted: Volunteers to Fix Things

Contacting The Sound

SPONSORED CONTENT:

Find Obituaries Posted Daily Online

Parthenon Teams Up for Free Easter Meals to Branford Vets, Seniors, Residents in Need

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TOWN

41st branford festival guide

North Branford Recognizes April as Autism Awareness Month

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF DECISION

LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF BRANFORD

Maureen Carr: Shining Through

St. Marys High School Class of 1975 50th Reunion

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Parthenon Teams Up for Free Easter Meals to Branford

Vets,

Seniors, Residents in Need

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NBHS Class of 1975 50th Reunion

Exploring Our Grief Journey: A Grief Support Group

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Branford Budget Heads to RTM Review with 2.1% Tax Hike and Reduced Mill Rate

LEGAL NOTICE

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Need Help Filing Your Income Taxes?

Goodwill Seeks Donations

Comey Helps Recognize World Champion Taekwondo Branford

Hand Co-op Boys’ Swim Team Treaded New Waters as State Runner-Up

Branford Father-Son Duo Wins USTA Match as Guilford Racquet & Swim Club Members

NORTH BRANFORD

Baseball

Boys’ Lacrosse

Boys’ Tennis

Girls’ Lacrosse Softball

Girls’ Tennis

Boys’ Lacrosse Outdoor Track

Girls’ Tennis

Boys’ Tennis

North Branford’s Connelly Finds Success as Team of One with Hand Gymnastics

Special to the Sound

Hand Co-op Boys’ Swim Team Treaded New Waters as State Runner-Up

North Branford’s Connelly Finds Success as Team of One with Hand Gymnastics

Bicycle Pedestrian Committee

GAC Opens Registration for 2024 Summer Youth Program

Fun By The Numbers

Last Week’s Answers

Here’s How It Works:

Bread at Home

Living RECIPES

APRIL 10

Easy Loaf Bread

Tips

No Knead Crusty Loaf

Quick Honey and Butter Loaf

George Flynn Concerts Presents Isidore String Quartet

APRIL 17

Madison Lyric Stage Presents World Premiere of ‘A Memory of Truth?’

Opera Theater Announces Season-Opening Concert

Real estate

A Captivating Colonial

BRANFORD

NORTH BRANFORD

EAST HAVEN

GUILFORD

MADISON

CLINTON

OLD SAYBROOK

Family Day Set for April 26